Red Dress Dash

We are ready for Dash!

It was time to tread in red.  My friend who has been the Miss and Miss Teen Illinois International director, Jennifer, escorted me downtown for Chicago's first, “Red Dress Dash,” for the Go Red Campaign through the American Heart Association.

The catered event was held at Daley Plaza. Everywhere you looked there were women, and even men, in red dresses and tennis shoes. Quite the look! Everyone then raced around the plaza in a 50-yard race to the finish. The winner was given both a trophy and a gift card, which he'll use for a girlfriend's upcoming birthday.

With some of our Red Dress Dashers!

It was great to see some of the familiar faces from the American Heart Association and Go Red for Women. And we enjoyed getting a chance to meet the many staff and students from Mercy Hospital who helped organize this race. Mercy has a great cardiology program and during the year they have many different events to help educate everyone about heart health related issues.

Be the change!

Amy Gregorio 
Your Mrs. International

www.GoRedforWomen.org

Official Photo Shoot!

During orientation at Mrs. International, we were all given a date for the official Mrs. International photo shoot with Clay Spann in Dothan, Alabama. I wrote it down along with everything else we learned that night. Now, I was on my way to Dothan for that very shoot! It is an amazing gift to be given!

It was an entertaining evening at Bella’s!

I arrived Friday and was greeted by Mary Richardson and our Miss Teen International, Haley Pontius. After checking in to the hotel, we had time to catch up a bit.  Haley is kind to her core and such a standout.  Of course I adore Mary.  She is smart and powerful.  And she is also very funny and so interesting. We met up with Joey Rutherford and Clay Spann for dinner at Bella’s.  I am hungry just thinking about it! They took great care of us there.

I had a hard time sleeping because I was so excited for Saturday!  Joey and Terri had lined up some of the most beautiful and edgy wardrobe I have ever seen! Given Bella’s, I was thrilled I was able to fit in the extravagant clothing they selected.

Miss Terri making sure everything is in place.

And for the day, Clay worked his fingers to the bone with the help of Terri.  It was a great make over every time.  And I say, “every time,” because we shot several looks; each one very different from the other.  It is still a mystery to me how my hair does not cooperate for me the way it does when it is in hands of professionals.  Clay, Joey and Terri are a tremendous trio of talent.  I have no idea which pictures they have selected and I am glad I don’t have to make the final choices.  You will get to see some of them shortly when the brand new International website is launched.  I can barely contain my excitement for the big reveal! And then throughout the year more of their hard work will appear.

This look was shot for the Go Red for Women campaign and the American Heart Association.

Clay, “the magician,” at work!  This breathtaking gown was selected by Joey and accessorized by Terri. Loved it!

These are just a couple of pictures taken at the start of the shoot. You will have to check out the new International website for the final cuts!

Post-shoot with Joey and Clay.

Thank you to Mel and Mary for this opportunity and thank you to Joey, Clay and Terri for a magical experience!

Be the change!

Amy Gregorio 
Your Mrs. International

Mrs. California International Pageant

Isn’t La Quinta beautiful?

This weekend I found myself waking up on the West Coast, in La Quinta which is a charming community just outside Palm Springs, California

I met this adorable 5year old who wanted a glimpse of the crown. She was incredibly sweet!

Eddie Peterson is the director for Mrs. California International. He also is a beloved person to all those who meet him. It was a privilege to be a part of his beautiful pageant this year. I was a chance to catch up with three of the judges from this year’s Mrs. International pageant. I owe them SO much for giving me this year of opportunities. The judges for the 2014 Mrs. CA International pageant were each former Mrs. California Int’ls along with Rebekah Negrete, who won Mrs. International 2007. I had THE BEST time having lunch and late dinners with everyone and even pulled a side muscle from laughing so much with them!

Although the weekend was very busy, I was so happy to sit and talk for a while with Shana Smith, Mrs. California Int’l 2013. Shana is a devoted mother and supportive military wife. The work she has accomplished on behalf of the “Got Your Back Network,” is just the beginning of all she will be accomplishing in years to come.

The New Mrs. CA International 2014, Eddie Peterson and me.

Congratulations to the new Mrs. California international 2014, Staci Ortiz – Davis! She is providing scholarships through an organization she started on behalf of her late grandmother. She is now part of a wonderful family that is California International and with the support of her sister queens and Eddie Peterson, she's going to have a fantastic journey ahead of her.

Be the change!

Amy Gregorio
Your Mrs. International 2013

www.californiaintl.com

National Night Out

Around the country, more than 15-thousand communities took part in National Night Out.  In fact, 37-million of us came out for the nation-wide event. It’s a great way for police and emergency personnel to build stronger bonds with the communities they serve and protect.  That is especially true in communities where the public may not have such a friendly relationship with police.

The kids were so excited to be given police cards. It’s much better than a ticket!

I was invited to take part in the festivities in Vernon Hills, Illinois. The activities are focused on children so I brought along my son and daughter. Along with the face painting, the moonwalks and the various games to be played... children learned better ways to stay safe. Thank you Vernon Hills for welcoming me into your community and for allowing me to be part of these festivities.

Be the change!

Amy Gregorio

More Than Just Talk...

Heading in to the office, crown and all!

This afternoon was spent at CASA Lake County.  I sat down with our Executive Director, Terri Zenner Greenberg; Dir of Communications and Development, Joanie Bayhack; and a few board members. It was the first time I had been to the office since becoming Mrs. International.  Although I normally would go it alone, I had my daughter with me.  It’s that time of year when summer camps are done, school has not started and sitters are on vacation.  Ali was a gem during the two hours of meetings and we were able to get a lot of work accomplished.

Some of my favorite people from CASA Lake County

You will often hear me say how much I love the enthusiasm everyone at CASA Lake County has for CASA!  The support they are offering me is having such a positive impact on my year as Mrs. International.  Today we discussed what’s been taking place with the program and we talked about what plans need to be made.  It was a great way to figure out how to most effectively help our Lake County office that has already offered so much to me personally and to the abused and neglected children we serve.

Be the change!

Amy Gregorio 
Your Mrs. International 2013
 www.CASALakeCounty.com

Tiara Magazine Interview

With Sherrie Gearheart post-interview

After our new Miss and Miss Teen International were crowned and pictures were taken, we three then went over to the hotel for interviews with Sherrie Gearheart.  I first met Sherrie the night I won Mrs. Illinois International. However, I was already aware of her many generous endeavors.  She is the creator of the Live Out Loud Charity which focuses on suicide prevention and awareness.  Sherrie also founded Tiara Magazine which celebrates us all and helps everyone love the skin they are in
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Sherrie interviewed us for her Tiara Talk Show.  It was a chance to discuss pageant preps leading up to Mrs. International.  And it was also the perfect place to talk about upcoming platform plans.  I am not sure when those interviews will air.  However, her website has plenty to offer.  Thank you Sherrie for the chance to discuss CASA, Mrs. International and Go Red for Women!

Be the change!

Amy Gregorio
Your Mrs. International 2013

www.SherrieGearheart.com

A Meeting with Mac Duggal

With gown designer, Mac Duggal. His showroom is a piece of heaven!

With many events on the horizon, I need help with my wardrobe! My usual running pants and athletic tops just won't cut it;) Yes, I do already have many clothes for all types of events, but I want to represent Mrs. International to the best of my abilities and in all ways.  Luckily, the Competitive Image was able to step in and save me. They have impeccable taste and organized a meeting with the fabulous Mac Duggal. Mac is an Illinois-based, but universally known gown designer.

Chances are very good; you’ve seen many of his cocktail dresses and gowns even if you've never been to a pageant! Mac and his staff were in the midst of packing up their showroom and heading to Atlanta for a big showcase for buyers including Competitive Image. Yet, Antoinette gathered a few gowns which had yet to be packed for the trip. They are beautiful and not out until next spring!

Thank you to Joey Rutherford at the Competitive Image and to Mac Duggal and his staff for fitting me in to their hectic week. And I was so surprised when Mac himself asked if we could have a picture taken together. Of Course! Next time, I will bring my crown. I can’t wait to show off the wardrobe!

Amy Gregorio

Miss and Miss Teen International 2013

Just as all of us delegates from Mrs. International were packing up and heading home, all the contestants for Miss and Miss Teen International were heading into Chicago along with their families.

It was a privilege to sit in the Presidential box with Mel and Mary Richardson, along with their family, to watch the preliminaries for the Miss and Miss Teen contestants. Each of these young women worked hard to be there; not only in terms of themselves, but also on behalf of their platforms.

One of those evenings, I was honored to be invited to dine with the Richardson’s and their core team. I don’t care to call them a team though. They ARE an integral part of the International Pageant system, but they are also family to the Richardson’s. They've known each other not just for years, but for decades. And that says a lot don't you think?

My husband (and Mr. International 2013) escorted me on finals night.

John had been in a golf tournament all week, but he was able to join me on finals night. Although the preliminaries and final night help the judges select the new Miss and Miss Teen International 2013, it was also a way to celebrate the year of hard work both Krista Wanous and Caroline Crowley.

Haley, Miss CO Int’l, me and Jesse at their coronation ball.

Congratulations to the new Miss Teen International 2013 Haley Pontius and the new Miss International 2013 Jesse Ladoue.  Both are smart, beautiful and accomplished ladies.  I had the chance to meet Jesse during my coronation ball the Saturday before and was struck by how elegant she is. Haley is a joy as I found after she was crowned.  The three of us will get a chance to know each other some more during our official photo shoot with Clay Spann!

Be the change,

Amy Gregorio 
Your Mrs. International 2013

Lurie Children's Hospital

Miss International 2012, Krista Wanous; me; and Miss Teen International, Caroline Crowley with a precious patient who had a crush on Krista!

For my very first appearance, I met up with Miss and Miss Teen International 201.  Denise from WKPR escorted us downtown to Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital. We spent time with truly resilient patients who are some of the youngest, yet some of the bravest there are.  As a parent, I have a hard time when my children even have ear infections, so to be one of those parents with children who need the help of experts is something I can't fathom.  But, they do so with such grace and optimism.  There are times in life you must simply have faith and believe there is a plan. The facility and its staff perform some of the most advanced life-save procedures in the Midwest.  It’s why I’ve spent years running and climbing tall buildings for them!

Morgan was so excited to try on the crown in spite of her surgery! She was part of my good luck at Mrs. International.

Our visit to Lurie’s also meant the chance to meet once again with the miraculous Morgan Miller. As Mrs. Illinois International I had the chance to meet with Morgan the week before heading to Mrs. International. At the time, she was in the ICU and intubated; her doctors were mystified about why she continue having encephalitis. At that point she couldn't talk due to her breathing tube. Morgan could only wave her hand.  But...only a couple of weeks later she's able to sit up, she's able to speak and her recovery has been going very well. We saw Morgan just a day after she received a shunt. Her room was covered with cards and well wishes from people all over the country. It was an honor to make one of my very first appearances with her.

She now has over 13,000 followers on a special Facebook prayer page which set up for her. The power of prayer!!  Go like it and follow her journey! It was a great day (in spite of some of Chicago’s worst traffic ever) spent with Miss International 2012, Krista Wanous and Miss Teen International 2012, Caroline Crowley.  I loved watching them with the children and learned much from them both. They have been extraordinary queens and I'm sure we'll see much more them in the coming years!

Be the change,

Amy Gregorio
Your Mrs. International 2013

www.luriechildrens.org
https://www.facebook.com/PrayersForMorganMiller

Illinois: Mile After Magnificent Mile

Although I have lived in several states, Illinois is now my home. It’s where I’ve been for the last 10-years and where my husband and I are raising our children. Family and friends often visit us since we are in a suburb of Chicago. The Windy City does have so much to offer, but so does our entire state. So, if you were to visit, I would recommend trying all of Illinois.  But first, you must understand a few things about us to make the trip even more worthwhile!

We here in Illinois boast many firsts:

* Illinois was the first state to ratify the 13th Amendment to the Constitution abolishing slavery in        1865.
*The first aquarium and skyscraper were both built in Chicago.
*The first McDonald’s opened in Des Plaines in 1955.

Now, on with your trip! I highly suggest you try our food, sports and other fun activities. Most importantly, let’s discuss food. We’re known for our great food and take it very seriously:

*Our state snack food is popcorn. (Preferably Garrett popcorn’s Chicago Mix)
*Evanston is the home of the ice cream sundae. Love Evanston!
*We pride ourselves on the best pizza, hot beef sandwiches and hot dogs.
*Chicago is home to the world's largest cookie and cracker factory, where Nabisco made 16 billion Oreo cookies in 1995.

Maybe you want to take in some sporting events:

Our state dance is square dancing! But, we also cheer on the Bears, the Bulls, the Blackhawks and we each must choose between the Cubs or White Sox, unless you are in southern Illinois where there are a few Cardinal fans! We have some great golf courses; just ask my husband who is an avid golfer.

We have so many activities throughout our beautiful state, so see where the road takes you!

*Hike, bike and zip line and bring your camera!
*Go eagle watching in Galena, Alton and Cypress. Again, bring your camera.
*Take a trip down the Mother Road, otherwise known as Route 66.
*Looking for some thrills?  Visit Six Flags in Gurnee!
*Visit out state capitol and The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield.
*Check out the Haunted Decatur Ghost Tour
*Go for on an excursion aboard the Celebration Belle in Moline, a deluxe, 800-passenger, vessel on the Upper Mississippi River.
*Oh, and if you are a train fanatic, like my son, make a trip to the Galesburg railroad museum.
*Visit Bald Knox Cross of Peace at the top of the Shawnee National Forest in Union County.
*Murphysboro annual cook-off offers the best BBQ.
*Take in many county fairs and festivals with rich traditions!
*And…whether it is Ravinia, Millennium Park, the Oriental Theater or Majestic Theater…go to one our gazillion venues and you will be able to catch a show somewhere in Illinois! Second City has launched the acting careers of many!

Other known trivial facts I personally find worth bragging about:

*Chicago Public Library is the world's largest public library with a collection of more than 2 million books.
*We are home to the Stanley Cup champions. Go Hawks!
*Illinois has some of the most down-to-earth people!

There is so much more you can do and enjoy here in the Land of Lincoln. Click on the link below and discover it for yourself.  Just tell them I sent you!

Be the change,

Amy Gregorio
You Mrs. International 2013

www.enjoyillinois.com

Platform Goals

There’s so much to do and the clock is ticking. I have hit the ground running and in a pair of 5 inch heels!
Even if I had not become Mrs. International, my work on behalf of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) would continue.

One of our main goals for CASA is to have a volunteer for every child in need by 2020 which means creating more awareness about our organization. As Mrs. International, I now have more opportunities to reach out to potential volunteers and organizations who can help us reach this goal. And I will do my very best to take advantage of every chance to speak about the organization and the children who need us all.
CASA is challenging to promote because what we do is so confidential.  Many of these young ones could be put in harm’s way should we give away too much information.  So you may not see the work I and other volunteers do because it must remain off-camera; their lives are not worth a photo op.  But the work is getting accomplished.  

As a national ambassador for CASA and member of the Speaker’s Bureau, I talk with many groups including corporations with volunteer programs.  Given more than a decade of working as a T.V. journalist, I have colleagues in media situated throughout the world. My plan is to call upon them as I travel.  Social media is a key to efficiently and effectively getting the word out there about CASA.

I am already working with organizations such as Prevent Child Abuse America (PCA) and Child Help.  Both wonderful organizations are dedicated to keeping child abuse and neglect from happening which is of great help to CASA. PCA has programs in the U.S. Puerto Rico and Canada and they’re part of the National Blue Ribbon Campaign, holding many big events during the year, but April is when they kick off “Child Abuse Prevention Month.”

Child Help is one of the only abuse hotlines which is staffed 24/7. Before becoming Mrs. International, I was asked to help them with Erin’s Law here in Illinois.  It is mandated in several states right now, requiring grades 1-6 to receive education about child abuse, neglect and bullying. It will be introduced in several more states this year and the program has already seen great results in Florida.

Considering 40-million children around the world suffer abuse neglect every single year. My platform has a universal message:  We need to save the futures of these children who suffer in silence.  As Mrs. International, I will continue building global partnerships with organizations like Child Helpline International.
Right now, these motivated organizations, along with CASA, are designing new ways to use this title of mine to benefit them on a broader level.

There will be a few meetings in this next week to discuss new opportunities. And the International Pageant system directors and staff are ready to help put all of this in to quick action.  It’s only been a couple of weeks and the calendar is already started to fill up! It's my mission to help ensure each of these children can look forward to a better future. And I plan to do so while representing the International Pageants system to the very best of my abilities which includes promoting our alliance with Go Red for Women.  Stay tuned!

Be the change,

Amy Gregorio 
You Mrs. International 2013

25 Things You Didn't Know About Mrs. International 2013

25 Things You Didn't Know About Me

1) My family is my life. There is nothing more important than my husband and our children.

2) Growing up in several states and a dozen cities means a piece of me and my history is everywhere.

3) I have a "museum," in my closet including the suit I wore when accepting my first job as a reporter and the suits I wore when meeting 4 of our U.S. Presidents. Even my funky neon ski pants from 9th grade are in that closet.  It baffles my husband, but it's a piece of my traveling history.

4) I love warm laundry just out of the dryer on a chilly fall day, but I still prefer summer.

5) I will do anything for my kids; including riding an upside down roller coaster which is taking place next week.

6) I always (almost always) find the positive in anything; just ask my friends. It must drive them crazy
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7) Pets are family in this household. My 15-year old cat passed away this year. 5-year old Ali still cries over him (as do I) so I'm not sure how to break it to my husband we need a new family member…like a dog? At least we have my Hanoverian, "Legacy," or "Legs,” who is a 16.3hh, 1200lb puppy. Seriously.

8) I cry easily. Whether it’s from joy, heart break or out of sympathy; I wear a lot of waterproof mascara.

9) I will never understand HOW an adult could hurt or neglect a child or an animal. There is no excuse.

10) I pray every night and thank Him for all I am blessed with learning every day. I also say a prayer for my loved ones and others including Quindera; a 2nd grader I met while in college through the "You Are Special," program. Please Lord, make sure she is okay and feels loved. Please.

11) Every story I’ve covered, however brutal, has forever changed me. My humor may be darker, but my heart is bigger because of everyone I’ve met. And yes, I remember just about everyone as I have a freakish memory.

12) True friends are a very rare find. They will catch your fall and are even happier than you when you succeed. Here is to good friends and great success!

13) I'm a night owl, yet I love waking early to snuggle with my kids before the days gets underway. They love it too, for now.

14) I speak with my mom (who's my BFF) at least twice a day, believe my dad's hung the moon and think my not-so-little brother (6'4) is the funniest person on the planet.

15) I truly love my in-laws...every one of them. How great is that?

16) I won the South Carolina Lt. Governor's Award when I was 10-yrs old for an essay I wrote about my thoughts on our future. My mom has it saved with everything else.  It’s a trip and not bad if I don’t say so myself.

17) Speaking of: I was raised by a stay-at-home mom who is one of the most well-read people I know, preaching "Girl Power!"

18) I grew up listening to “The Drifters,”  love all things Stevie Wonder and play Jimmy Buffet during our tough winters here in Chicago.

19) Family, friends, faith, laughter and love are the key to my happiness. Anything else? Nope.

20) One of my all-time favorite movies is a documentary called, “Buck.” It makes me want to move to Montana and wear nothing but jeans and boots too.  Just give the movie a try; it’ resonates. I am supposed to meet him this October!

21) I am technologically challenged. If you've seen my twitter or Instagram, you understand and I apologize;) And by now you know I am also horrible with punctuation as I spent too many years writing for the ear and not the eye. That’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it!

22) I want to travel to India and often listen to Indian music from artists like A.R. Rahman thanks to Pandora, but cannot make it past the first 20-minutes of “Slum Dog Millionaire.” The oil in the eye part was the final straw.

23) I am a goal driven person. Sometimes I wonder WHY did I sign up for this!? WHY!? But I must always follow through unless it is against medical advice.

24) Speaking of: I fractured my back (ok, some vertebrae) a little over a year ago when "Legs," displayed his frustration and threw me (he was apparently hurt.)  Given I had a horse fall on me in 6th grade, which left me unable to walk for a couple weeks, it is a huge show of support by my husband  who understands horses are a part of me. He really has no choice in the matter

25a) Doing rolls and stalls with the Red Barons has been the ultimate adrenaline rush and all for my job! I survived and all the station wanted to know was if the photog’s camera was ok! Ha!

25b) I wish I could create and then bottle a magic potion that would protect children, keeping them sweet and innocent forever!

Be the change!

Amy Gregorio 
Your Mrs. International 2013

My Crowning Moment

My first walk as Mrs. International 2013!

Words cannot explain what it felt like when I became the new Mrs. International 2013. I may never be able to find the right words to describe it and for so many reasons.

For years I have come to watch Mrs. International.  Whether it be with friends or to cheer on friends; it has been an annual tradition. I understand the high caliber of ladies who are a part of this system.  Then I was able to spend a week getting to know the ladies who are part of our 2013 class. During the Saturday rehearsals, we listened to each other speak about our platforms and what lead us to them.  What strong women who had triumphed insurmountable circumstances! It brought me to tears along with just about everyone else out of inspiration and admiration.

In the dressing room with some of the most amazing ladies from around the world!

There were so many great moments during our week.  I began writing to you about our week together and realized I would have to break it down in to smaller pieces or you would be reading it for the next…well, week.  Aside from seeing my family and friends in the audience, one of my MANY favorite moments was during finals night.  Those of us who had just been called from the top 15 to the top 10 had but a few minutes to change in to fitness.  This is a workout in itself! So, I came flying down the stairs into our dressing room for Group “C” and there waiting for me were several of my classmates.  I am tearing up right now just thinking about them.  I stood there as everyone buzzed about me, helping me get dressed.  I had two people putting in my earrings (at the same time), while another helped get my feet into shoes. Someone else guided my arms into the correct holes of the top. I can only imagine how it must have looked! Yet, it was perhaps one of the sweetest (yet hectic) moments I have witnessed in a long while. So generous and helpful and knowing our class, it was not a surprise.

The magnitude of becoming Mrs. International 2013 is hard to explain. What this year will allow me to do on behalf of CASA is simply mind-boggling.  And considering each one of my classmates and what they are doing in their communities makes me extremely proud and diligent in my job to represent us all this year.

And I thank the International Pageants system.  None of this would be possible without Mary and Mel Richardson and their loyal staff who work tirelessly throughout the year so we could have such a wonderful experience and a year of great potential.  And for me, I can never truly thank the very large circle of family, friends, and cheerleaders I have in my life. Their encouragement and advice has been instrumental.  The support I have received from CASA and like-minded organizations reminds me always of why I must do everything I can to make the most of every single opportunity this year.

ALL of that was all swirling about me as we all returned to the stage for the opening of the envelope. Once I heard them say, “The new Mrs. International is Mrs. Illinois…Amy Gregorio,” my brain briefly checked out and then returned once I saw my sweet husband walking toward me on-stage. It is an honor.  It is a privilege.  And it is phenomenal.

Be the change,

Amy Gregorio 
Your Mrs. International 2013

CASA. A Child's Voice.

CASA. A Child’s Voice.

What is CASA? It stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates. We speak up in court for children who are removed from homes because of abuse and neglect. Although I have been a volunteer with child-based organizations since I was in college, I have been a CASA in Lake County, Illinois for 5-years. It has been one of the more challenging, yet most rewarding endeavors.

CASA came in to existence in 1977 because of Seattle Judge, David Soukup. (I believe he deserves a Nobel Peace Prize.) He worried late in to the night about decisions he was making on behalf of abused and neglected children. There was little time and even less information to help the judge make good decisions which would forever impact a child’s life. So he began enlisting volunteer citizens to act as his eyes and ears for cases coming through his court.

Judge David Soukup.

Today, CASA has nearly 1000 program offices and 77-thousand volunteers across the United States. Sounds like a lot, right? Well, it’s a start. Much more must be done. For every child with a volunteer advocate, another two children must go it alone in the overburdened and underfunded child welfare system. Right now, 700-thousand children find themselves in the foster care and family court systems. These aren’t just a bunch of statistics. These are children. Some have never been told they are loved or special. Others have lived in conditions much like a horror film.

The U.S. has the highest rate of child abuse and neglect of any industrialized nation. Without a CASA, these young survivors are more likely to drop out of school and become teen parents. They may not receive needed services and they will be more likely to struggle with violent relationship and substance abuse issues. They do not deserve this type of forecast.

What is the best way to help CASA? We need to prevent abuse and neglect. Period. Until then, we need more advocates. And we need more money. This year our federal funding was chopped. That funding is desperately needed to train volunteers, start new programs and provide services for children we help.

I encourage you to open your heart to these children. We all need to speak up for their rights and their futures. It’s the least we can for those who deserve so much better than what they have endured.

www.CASAforChildren.org

www.CASALakeCounty.com

Be the change,

Amy Gregorio
Your Mrs. International 2013

Meet Your New Mrs. International 2013 - Amy Gregorio!

It has still not sunk in I am the new Mrs. International. This wonderful picture from Paula Preston helps!

Well, hello there!

Allow me to introduce myself.  I am Amy Gregorio and beyond honored to be Mrs. International 2013. Considering the extraordinary women who are a part of our 2013 Mrs. International class, it is a great privilege to represent them and the Mrs. International pageant system this year.

How did I get here? It is by way of several states, some unexpected but earned opportunities, and because of a very large village of family and friends.

I was born in Michigan and from there my family moved to Texas, New York, South Carolina, Washington, and back to Michigan just after high school. That’s where I went to Western Michigan University and graduated with a B.A. in Communication Studies and a minor in Political Science.

I was not the classic four-year grad. It took me 6-years to finish because I worked for 5-years as a spokesperson with a major car company. Travelling the country over 100-days a year was perhaps the best preparation for taking on the world of broadcasting.

36-hours spent covering the Timothy McVeigh execution for CBS

Professionally, I spent 12-years working as “AJ Sterling.”  An Emmy nominated TV journalist, I was voted, ”Best Reporter,” by the Associated Press. That particular award will always be a favorite of mine as it was based on a culmination of my work rather than just a minute and a half long story. Over the years, my reports have appeared on CBS, CNN, and Fox while working in the tri-cities of Tennessee, Nashville, Indianapolis and Chicago. I feel like I have seen it all and covered it in abbreviated form, meeting four US Presidents and a multitude of other leaders while reporting on many historical events.

Covering Super Bowls, riots and flying with the Red Barons has been thrilling, but not as exciting as life with my husband, John. He and I are the perfect mix of opposites.  He is an attorney with a firm in Chicago as he was when my sister-in-law, Summer, set us up while I was still in Indy. After a year of long-distance dating, we were engaged and I was soon moving to Chicago and planning a wedding. That was ten years ago. We are about to celebrate 9-years of marriage already!

Our fabulous foursome this past November at our nephew’s wedding in Boca Grande.

We are the extremely proud, over protective parents to 7-year old Johnny and 5-year old Ali. We love them to the moon and back and I still can’t come to grips with the fact they are growing up so quickly.  It’s not fair! Make it stop!

I wish every child had the life Johnny and Ali have.  To be loved and to feel special…to know they are safe and can go somewhere at night when they hear thunder or wake with a nightmare. Sadly, that is NOT the case.  In fact, some children never hear the words, “I love you,” or are told they are valuable.  The nightmares come from what they have seen or endured.

That is why I am a CASA, or Court Appointed Special Advocate, in Lake County.  It is not just passion of mine, it is who I AM. After spending years covering the fallout of abuse and neglect, I took a step back from broadcasting and researched ways to use my skills on behalf of abused and neglected children. I am part of CASA’s Speaker’s Bureau and serve as a National CASA Ambassador. It has allowed me to partner with Prevent Child Abuse America and Child Help. Anything we can do to prevent the abuse and neglect is good for, “our,” children and for CASA. I will tell you more about CASA in the upcoming blog posts.  I could go on and on and on about my love of CASA and all those working to help these sweet babies who need someone to protect them and their rights to a life free from fear. So, that is just a little about me;) As you will find this year, I plan to tell the stories of those CASA helps, the class of 2013 and those I meet along the way.  It is such an exciting time that I am learning how to go to sleep while many plans are floating around in my mind.

XOXO,

Amy Gregorio 
Your Mrs. International 2013

New Channel 11 DayTime Tri Cities!

It was a sincere pleasure to meet Amy Lynn, Host of DayTime Tri Cities on News Channel 11. She was the emcee for the Queen of Hearts event, and we quickly discovered that not only are we both Minnesota girls, but figure skaters as well!

Amy mentioned her participation with Queen of Hearts on an earlier show. I was thrilled to see that she not only highlighted the accomplishments of the young ladies who raised money for the American Heart Association, but she also gave the Mrs. International crown some press along with her co-host!

If you would like to see the video, here is the link and you can find her comments around the 3:50 min mark:  http://www.wjhl.com/video?clipId=8775119&autostart=true

With the lovely Amy Lynn!

With sincere appreciation,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Queen of Hearts

The Queen of Hearts Gala is the American Heart Association’s longest running event! The late Mr. and Mrs. Buddy Crump developed the concept in 1964, which began as a community service project within the Tri-Cities area in Tennessee. Today the event has evolved into a prestigious honor and has raised over $2.25 million dollars!

The event commenced with a reception hour, prior to a very nice buffet dinner, a short program was hosted by the beautiful Amy Lynn from News Channel 11 (who happens to be another Minnesota girl!), Whitney Allen-Carr shared some remarks, I was asked to make some comments, along with the daughter of the Crumps. Finally, the “Queen of Hearts” was named and then the music & dancing began. It was a fun evening and the ladies looked fabulous with their handsome escorts!

Queen of Hearts 2013!

Most impressive, these lovely young ladies who competed for the “Queen of Hearts” collectively raised $62,500 for the AHA! Thank you to Whitney, Lauren, and Pam for allowing me to participate in this wonderful tradition.

Hope you enjoy the photos:

Danika and Lauren

The lovely Whitney 

With Pam

With Amy  

Successful fundraising!

Loved his bow tie!

Beautiful young ladies!

Congratulations to all the young ladies who participated and the organizers who continue to carry on the Queen of Hearts!

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Contemplating Competition

As I reflect on my own experience as I prepared for Chicago one year ago, I have to say that I arrived feeling as though I had left no stone un-turned and ready to compete. As an individual who loves to compete and has done so for most of my life in; figure skating, pageantry, and the construction industry, I have a philosophy that you may or may not agree with…regardless, here are my thoughts for you to contemplate:

1. A true competitor prepares to be their very best, and lives by the mantra, “I can only control ME.” 
2. Trying to compete against others will only cause frustration. I can promise you that I was not the youngest, the thinnest, the tallest, the prettiest, or any number of labels at the pageant last year…however, I was the best me I could be!
3. The devil is in the details, and a good competitor shows up knowing they have done the hard work, therefore, they can be in the moment and perform at the highest level with ease.
4. Be certain you understand what it means to win the title for which you are competing, and if you win, do you have a strategy for your reign. Even though I knew winning was statistically a long shot, I prepared as though I would become Mrs. International and was able to articulate to myself, my husband, and the judges exactly what I hoped to accomplish. On a very personal level, I never spoke about winning out loud because that is how I was raised, but internally you have to be able to believe in the possibility….
5. Any good competitor knows where the points add up. In this system interview carries the most weight, therefore, be absolutely prepared for fitness and evening gown, but give interview the attention it deserves. For the formal judges interview, the best advice is simply to be you! If you win, you will be sharing conversations about your platform, the pageant system, your family, where you live, etc…everyday with people from all walks of life! These judges will want to know who you are, because you will become the face of the International Pageant System. 
6. That said, do not under estimate the importance of the value for On-Stage Interview, both the prepared speech and the Q & A. In this case, it is not as much the point value, as the placement in the competition and the effect your performance will have on you as the competitor, the judges decisions, and your connection with the audience. A tip I love to share…I added my 30 second speech to my daily cardio workout for several months. When the treadmill timer hit the top of a minute, I would rehearse my speech and time it, massage it, and the result was a feeling so comfortable on stage, that I honestly felt as though I was talking to my best friend in an intimate setting. Even if you add it to your travel toward Chicago it will make you more confident! As for answering the question, the best advice is to be in the moment, listen, and answer the question with the confidence that you know your platform.
7. It is critical to pace yourself throughout the week; rest whenever possible, bring items that ground you (I had two framed photos of my wedding day and Tonka, and an Aveda candle), make certain to drink water and consume healthy calories, I needed a wrap during rehearsals because I hate being cold, give your feet a break as much as possible, because you will be asking a lot of them during the pageant itself, and breath! 
8. Competition is really a journey, not simply an end result. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet incredible women from different cultures and each with unique experiences. Do yourself a favor and get to know each other…I promise you will treasure the memories! 
9. A classy competitor believes in good sportsmanship – win or lose. One of my most revered moments happened in my own home, by myself, curled up in a chair, when I put in the DVD of last year and watched the final moments of the pageant. When I saw the reaction of the amazing women in the Class of 2012 as my name was called, I burst into tears…of overwhelming joy…and was filled with a deep sense of humility. I had no idea the women behind me in their gorgeous gowns had cheered, high-fived, and hugged in a moment when many could feel less than joyful. Believe me when I say I have lost more pageants than I have won…and I know…how beautiful inside and out these women truly are!
10. If you have made it to Chicago, you are already blessed and you are already a WINNER! Just remember there are so many women throughout the world who have thought about competing in a pageant, but for a variety of reasons never take the first step. You had the guts to do it, and that is a WIN in life…and if you believe…God has a plan for each and every one of us.

My very best wishes to each of you, and I want to share with you one of my favorite quotes of all time by Henry David Thoreau, “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you’ve imagined.”

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Travel Tips for a Queen

After traveling more than 100,000 miles throughout the world as Mrs. International, I have learned a trick or two that I would love to share with the International Class of 2013. Please keep in mind, my husband and I spent several weeks on the Asian Pacific tour and the European tour with many appearances by taking only carry-on luggage. If you are well traveled, you know that the flexibility carry-on offers with tight connections and flight changes is invaluable! Whether you are traveling internationally or domestic, I hope these tips will make your experience just a little bit better!

Departing for European Tour

Travel tips for a Queen:

Crown & Sash – Start with a staging area within your home that you accumulate the items that will travel with you, as leaving your crown or sash behind would be quite unfortunate. Make certain you have a protected carrier to assure the crown and sash are not damaged in any way. I purchased a crown case from Holly Hardwick for travel, which looks like an elegant hat box and then I made two foam inserts covered in chocolate brown velvet with a slit to secure the center rhinestones to assure the crown could not move. I always keep the sash with my crown in the case for two reasons; one, the sash can easily snag items if not wrapped properly and two, they are typically worn together.

Attire & Accessories – Selection of outfits for each appearance, and keeping in mind you are representing your title on all of the in between travel days or adventures, takes planning and coordination. I specifically selected items that were made of travel friendly fabrics and could be mixed and matched to give completely different looks. For materials that do not travel well, I use a hot shower to steam (being careful to keep item from getting wet) and blow dryer to finish off. Layering is also extremely important; as the weather in our Asian Pacific tour went from winter climate in Japan to tropical in Hawaii. Accessories are essential with this type of travel, since a scarf alone can transform an outfit. For example, on a recent trip to Las Vegas, I wore a white skirt and top with a red scarf for a meeting with the local American Heart Association and then removed the scarf in the cab ride to a local hospital to tour a burn center and added a turquoise necklace, bracelet and earring set. If it were not so hot, I would have added a sweater to alter the look further.

Preparation & Packing – Giving yourself as much time as possible to pack in advance is critical. As mentioned above, I use a staging area in a spare bedroom and start making piles of complete outfits as I schedule appearances. Knowing in advance when many, but not all of the outfits will be worn, I actually pack in chronological order. Another helpful item is the use of travel bags, which are very light weight zippered bags with mesh or clear plastic. I pack night clothes, accessories, lingerie, socks, workout items, etc. in these bags and pull them out to throw into drawers in my hotel room, which gives me several advantages; you can ultimately use them to separate clean from worn clothing, these are items used daily, and it frees up space in the suitcase for re-organizing as you travel from city to city. A final tip on packing is use every square inch! I roll items inside each pair of shoes, fill every corner and crevice of every suitcase or bag, stuff each clutch or purse with jewelry or accessories, and I packed my favorite LV tote emptied and flattened into a roller-board to give me options for carrying essentials while attending appearances.

Physical & Psychological – Do not take the toll on your body or mind for granted! Starting with your feet, I live in high heels, but always carry a pair of fabulous flats to match each outfit with me. Give your feet a break whenever possible, and it is truly the only way to move quickly through airports and train stations. In many countries walking is far more prevalent than the United States and cobble stones or stairs are everywhere. Always have a wrap, scarf, or sweater to stay warm, especially if you may be moving from outside to inside or daytime to evening. During travel itself, drink as much water as possible and keep snacks like protein bars, nuts, or dried fruit with you at all times. To look fresh, I keep my “TSA approved liquids bag” within reach so that I can dab my roller Flower Bomb perfume, keep my lips soft with Clay Spann lip gloss, powder as needed, and pop a mint or fresh breath spray in my mouth. Staying healthy is an absolute must! Just as with any job, being able to rise to the occasion for each and every appearance takes energy and good health. Getting as much sleep as possible (which was my biggest challenge), being creative with workouts on the road, eating healthy, and keeping your immune system boosted with vitamins or in my case Airborne chewables are all imperative.

Further, I opted to accept and attend every single appearance request that was made, with the only exception being a conflict of an appearance already booked. Having a clear mission for my reign, making certain I had the support in place to accomplish my mission both at home and at work, and believing this journey was God’s plan for me gave me the foundation and peace of mind to give my all to this magical year.

Again, I hope these words are helpful as you make your way to Chicago. Travel safely and know that I am excited beyond words to meet each of you!

Warmest Regards,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Goodbye, Sarah

I remember very distinctly the feelings of excitement that surged through my body as I sat in my room (at about 3am) after being crowned Miss Teen International 2012. I was absolutely thrilled beyond words to have gained a new title. However, it never really occurred to me that I would gain two absolutely amazing sisters! Unfortunately, in a little over a week, I will watch of them give up her title as Mrs. International 2012.

I have had the pleasure of reigning alongside Sarah Bazey throughout this year. She is an absolute inspiration to every person that she meets, and she always leaves a lasting impression on his or her heart. I have learned many valuable lessons about dedication, hard work, and perseverance from Sarah. I know that I will carry a piece of her with me throughout my life. I am so very thankful for the love, support, and hospitality Sarah has shown to my family and me throughout this past year.

We have shared so many wonderful memories together....and LOTS of laughs! Although it is almost time to say goodbye to “my” Mrs. International 2012, I know that the bond we have created will last a lifetime!

Thank you, Sarah, for being my role model and my sister! I love you very much!

Love and CUPCAKES,

Caroline