A Piece of History

The Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village is home to the Amherst Museum.  They offer a wealth of history for both New Yorkers and overall culture.  I have attended two of their exhibit openings as Miss New York International: “Modern Childhood”, a collection of games and activities that have littered living rooms across the country for centuries, and “Body Beautiful”, an impressive display of the evolution of what society considers beautiful at each time period and the lengths we went through to achieve it.

They do such an incredible job displaying the items and curating the exhibits.  I could (and have) wander(ed) around for hours and still find pieces I missed the first few times.  The staff is such a talented group and I have come to know them well.   Whenever I attend an event with them I know it will be a fun and also educational experience.

I received an email from the director of the museum sharing some information about their next exhibit: an exploration of occupational uniforms over the years.  To my surprise, they asked if they could display my Miss New York International crown and sash as part of the two-year exhibit that will open in February of 2014.   I was so flattered and honored by request.  Looking forward to solidifying the International Pageant System as a part of history!

Enjoying the interactive games at the Modern Childhood Exhibit

With Body Beautiful Exhibit Curator, Kayla Shypski

Seek Happiness,

Jesse Ladoue
Miss International 2013

My Second Chance At My First Pitch

After I was crowned Miss Teen Arkansas International, one of the first events that I was able to attend was a Dickey Stephens (Arkansas Travelers) baseball game where I would be throwing out the first pitch. I was so honored and excited, but there was an issue. I’m terrible at sports. I can’t even throw a baseball straight! So, before the game I buckled down and practiced, practiced, practiced until I could throw a decent pitch. I thought that I was ready… and oh how wrong I was!

It wasn’t until I was out on the field, standing on the mound and gazing up at the large crowd and the catcher who was signaling me to throw the ball that I realized I was far from ready. But, still, I let it fly and even with all of the catcher’s speed he wasn’t able to catch it before it hit the dirt. At the time I was a little sad that it wasn’t the pitch I had hoped for, but I was ecstatic that I even had this opportunity.

Fast forwarding to after I won Miss Teen International, I discovered that I would be able to throw out the first pitch again! And I was being given a second chance to redeem myself!

This time I didn’t practice, but went straight into the pitch with confidence that I could throw a decent strike. Unfortunately, the second time around the pitch was far worse than the first! I honestly couldn’t believe it! It practically didn’t go anywhere near home plate!

When I look back now, I can’t help but laugh! It’s alright that the throws weren’t perfect, because I had the time of my life doing something people only dream about. I’m grateful for the opportunity and I’m proud of my first pitches, even if they didn’t exactly make it home!

Always,

Haley Rose Pontius

Dodge Center Celebration

As I drove about two hours south of my home in Minneapolis on a beautiful June evening, I couldn’t help but smile at the scenery. There were rows of new crops making patterns like a quilt across the countryside, clusters of mature trees outlining the barn yards, and graceful windmills capturing energy in the distance against the blue sky.

The wonderful residents of Dodge Center, Minnesota, welcomed me into their community with wide open arms. I was asked to speak to the audience, assist with the crowning of their local royalty, and sign autograph cards.

It was a pleasure to mingle with the locals and learn a little bit about their charming town. When I addressed the group, I shared with them the fact that I am from a town smaller than their own, and no matter where you call home, there is a world full of opportunities!

I would like to thank Cheryl Gillard for inviting me to participate in their celebration and I wish the very best to the young ladies who will undoubtedly make their community proud!

Addressing the residents of Dodge Center

“Dream Big!” is one of my favorite messages.

All my best,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Crown Off & Helmet On!

Black & white stripes are the hottest fashion trend for the season…right? However, this may not be exactly what the fashionistas have in mind!

Richard Stehly Memorial Hockey Game Group Photo

When I was asked to referee the Richard Stehly Memorial Hockey Game at Parade Stadium on April 15, 2013, I didn’t hesitate to accept. Hockey was an important part of Richard’s life, and he unfortunately passed away playing the game from a heart attack in 2010.

My fellow referee was the fantastic Dan Vruno, and 20 years ago I worked with Dan’s son and his hockey team as a power skating coach. After spending the night on the ice with these rough and tough hockey players, who all happen to be affiliated with the American Concrete Institute (ACI) for which Richard was the President at the time of his passing, I am fairly certain I should stick to power skating! After the game, Dan said we only got yelled at about 15 times, so he figured we did a good job officiating!

I blew the whistle for off-sides, tripping, and a few other violations…but generally let the guys fight it out without too much interference from the “stripes!” Thank you to the boys for allowing me to play in their “sand box!” And Dan, let me know if you ever want to trade in your helmet for a crown!

Getting ready in the Officials Room

In action on the ice

With Matt Zeller, Executive Director, Concrete Paving Association of MN

With much appreciation,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

European Tour Announcement

In the spirit of inclusion, this blog is a reprint of the press release announcing an international tour of Europe. If you are reading this blog, believe in the values and mission of the International title, have an interest in the goals stated in the release, or simply want to have an excuse to see the world and meet some phenomenal people, please know that you are invited!

---

MRS. INTERNATIONAL 2012, SARAH BAZEY,

ANNOUNCES INTERNATIONAL TOUR THROUGH

EUROPE

Join Sarah on this journey of connecting people around the world

---

(Minneapolis, MN) – March 11– Mrs. International 2012, Sarah Bazey, announces the release of her itinerary for an international tour of Europe. The May 2013 tour will highlight Bazey’s three stated goals of; honoring the Mrs. International title, sharing a message of living a heart-healthy life, and connecting the burn survivor community worldwide.

The tour is scheduled to kick off in London, England on May 7 and will include visits to Paris, France; Frankfurt, Germany; Geneva, Switzerland; Rome, Italy; and Istanbul, Turkey, before returning to Minneapolis, Minnesota, on May 24, 2013. 

Bazey’s Harvard Business School classmates are especially recognized for their assistance with hosting and development for the tour, while the American Heart Association, World Heart Federation, and the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors have also offered valuable support and encouragement.

For specific European tour itinerary details and event information and information about how to participate in either tour, please visit www.sarahbazey.com.

Tour Goals:

Upon being crowned, Bazey stated, “As Mrs. International 2012, it is my privilege to represent the title and all that it embodies; elegance, integrity, commitment to family, accomplishments of married women and a devotion to charitable causes. It is often said that a crown can open doors, but it is my hope that this very special crown will open borders.”

Beyond the crown, the true mission of the International Pageant System is to make a difference in the world, which is exemplified by its national alliance with the American Heart Association and its “Go Red for Women” campaign. Bazey will share the message of living a heart-healthy life throughout the United States and with World Heart Federation members abroad.

Bazey, who was severely burned in a helicopter crash in 1994, will also promote her platform of burn awareness and education on behalf of the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. “It is my mission to connect the burn survivor community throughout the world – including the family and friends of burn survivors and the medical community – to help others as they journey through the pain and fear associated with these injuries,” she states. 

Sarah Bazey:
A Harvard Business School graduate and an accomplished business professional, Bazey is the owner and president of Minneapolis-based Simplex Construction Supplies, Inc. She proudly serves as vice president of the National Board of Trustees for the Phoenix Society, a national, nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering burn survivors through support programs, education and advocacy.

Since 1995, Bazey also has served as a volunteer to help burn patients at Regions Hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota.  In 2001, the Phoenix Society launched its Survivors Offering Assistance in Recovery (SOAR) program and Bazey has continued to volunteer at the hospital through the SOAR program.  Additionally, she has been a keynote speaker for the Phoenix Society’s World Burn Congress. The 2012 conference featured co-Board of Trustees member, J. R. Martinez, a burn survivor and veteran of the Iraqi War and winner of ABC Television’s 2011 season of Dancing with the Stars.

Mrs. International Pageant System:

The Mrs. International Pageant is the only platform-based system and is owned and operated by International Pageants, Inc., which also operates the Miss International and Miss Teen International competitions.  Mrs. International showcases married women from ages 21 through 56 and includes their husbands as an integral part of the event.  For more information visit www.mrsinternational.com.

###

Warmest Regards,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Optimist Club Presentation

When I accepted the invitation to address the Northwest Suburban Optimist Club at the Golden Valley Country Club, I knew instantly that I would dedicate my message to a true optimist, my late father Leonard Wojtowicz. And, that is exactly what I did.

My presentation opened with a brief history of my father’s experience as a child of immigrant parents, raised in the Great Depression, a member of the “Silent Generation” as a WWII and Korean War veteran, small business owner, devoted husband, and father of six. When I was a little girl, I recall my father whistling as he cleaned the pool, the pride on his face as he mowed the lawn, and the loving way in which he only cared that we were okay if we slid into a ditch with his car. Because of the struggles he endured in his lifetime, he found richness in everyday chores and had a firm grasp on his priorities of; Faith, Family, and Country. His glass was always half full and he saw the possibilities in any situation.

I am my father’s daughter. It is because of my foundation that I was so very excited to meet with this group of individuals who come together with a common philosophy and set of goals. I thoroughly enjoyed the conversations with the members of this club and hope that the words I shared with them offered the favorable outcome an optimist expects!

Northwest Suburban Optimist Club

After a very nice introduction!

With sincere appreciation,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Illinois International Pageant!

Congratulations to the newly crowned 2013 titleholders; Amy Gregorio – Mrs. Illinois International, Season Winesburg – Miss Illinois International, and Megan Riesner – Miss Teen Illinois International! And, a huge congratulatory and well deserved shout out to the fabulous Illinois directors Beverly Turkowski and Jennifer Naida , who obviously poured their hearts and souls into producing their first International state pageant! I was so thrilled to be a part of the event and cannot give enough accolades to my wonderful Class of 2012 pageant sister Terri Karch!

With my friend, the lovely…Mrs. Illinois International 2012 Terri Karch!

From orientation, through rehearsals, the interview process, and throughout the competition, these ladies were absolutely spectacular! I had a chance to visit with each one, hear their stories, and exchange both giggles and tears. It was my privilege to conduct the on-stage interviews, which was one of my favorite parts of the competition. In the dressing room, I witnessed so many acts of kindness between all three divisions, which always makes my heart feel good. In my opinion, this is the beauty of pageantry.

Orientation. 

Paula Preston being introduced to the ladies. 

All the Mrs. Contestants with Terri and Beverly. 

My pageant sister forever! 

Moments before the Interview. 

The amazing Beverly, Mrs. Illinois International 2005!

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the incredible support and sisterhood of former Illinois titleholders who turned out to make this event special for all of the participants. What a fabulous and gorgeous group of women! It was a sincere pleasure to meet each of you. Thank you again to Beverly, Jennifer, and Terri for your including me in this fabulous weekend!

XXOO!

With the new Illinois titleholders - photo courtesy of PageantCast.

With love and appreciation,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Salute to Veterans at the VA Medical Center!

I could not think of a better way to spend my Valentine’s Day…as we handed out Valentine’s cards made by local elementary school children to Veterans at the VA Medical Center! The morning commenced with a brief program, introduction of dignitaries, a chance to view art work displayed by Veterans, and most importantly a chance to visit with the Vets in their hospital beds.

We were grouped into small teams and given hats, pins, and cards to distribute. The chance to share a conversation, hold a hand, or give a hug was simply priceless. My first hand shake was given to a Vet with a hook hand and I had to be gowned to enter his room. I thanked him for his service and read the first card to him as he smiled.

The oldest Vet I spent a few minutes with was 96 years old, and one Vet gave me a poem he had written honoring the American Flag. As the daughter of a WWII and Korean War Veteran, my thank you to these men and women comes from the bottom of my heart.

I hope you will take a few moments to view these photos and remember the men and women who protect us each and every day at great cost to themselves and their families.

Jan has volunteered with the VA for 60 Years!

Volunteers are an important part of the VA Medical Center

Art on display

Michael Gallucci, Deputy Commissioner Veterans Health Care and Acting Director, Judith Johnson-Mekota took a moment to share a photo with me

Sharing a moment with one of our heroes

Xavier and Vinnie

With sincere respect and appreciation,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Viva Las Vegas!

There really is no place quite like Las Vegas, Nevada. It only seemed appropriate to capture a photo with Elvis under the iconic Las Vegas sign!

Viva Las Vegas!

Each year I seem to find myself traveling to Vegas for a variety reasons, and this happened to be my annual work-related trip to the World of Concrete trade show! Yes, I do still have a company to run, and this is one event that as the President and CEO of Simplex Construction Supplies, Inc., I am not able to delegate.

Even though this was scheduled as professional travel, I did bring my crown and was able to connect with both the bright Briana Courts - Miss Nevada International 2013, and the men who keep us safe in Clark County Fire Station #11. Briana and I shared a very nice dinner together at Trevi in The Forum Shops at Caesars. The next day I was honored to be escorted by Chief Tim Sendelbach, with whom I serve on the Phoenix Society Board, to take a tour of Fire House #11, share lunch and stories with the firefighters, and take some photos with these men who were absolutely gracious hosts.

I hope you enjoy the photos:

Miss Nevada International 2013

Captain Clark Lamping

Could not resist a chance to sit in the truck!

Lunch with some fabulous men!

Chief Tim Sendelbach

What lady would not want to stand in my shoes…(left to right) Anson Jones, Tony Tanara, Clark Lamping, Alex Logan, Chris Page, and Ward Symes

Thank you again to Tim Sendelbach, Clark Lamping, Briana Courts, and all those who helped bring us together.

With warm regards and sincere appreciation,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Feed My Starving Children

Feed My Starving Children is a non-profit Christian organization committed to feeding God’s children hungry in body and spirit. Their approach is simple: children and adults hand-pack meals specifically formulated for malnourished children. They ship the meals to nearly 70 countries around the world.

I joined a “Bunch of Fun Pageant People” at our local, Feed me Starving Children packing warehouse for a Saturday afternoon of volunteering and fun. Equipped with out hairnets and gloves, we created an assembly line to make Mannapacks. Mannapacks are scientifically engineered meals for malnourished children. The four ingredients are vitamins (chicken flavor), dehydrated vegetables, soy and rice.

Putting the meal packs was so much fun!! Yes, I’m lame and I think volunteering is fun… but seriously we had such a good time. The music was bumping and as our time passed we set goals for ourselves. We couldn’t help but giggle when one of us would mess up our job and throw off the whole assembly line.

In only two hours, our session of volunteers packed 152 boxes with 216 meals in each box, feeding 90 children for an entire year!! WOW! Touching, packing and seeing the food gave me such a tangible understanding of how huge of am impact we were making. It seemed so amazing to me that in only 2 hours of a Saturday afternoon, I could give that many kids that much food! 

I was so proud to be surrounded by my incredible pageant family. I love them all so dearly. They are the most loving, giving, caring, supportive women I have ever encountered. I am blessed to have them in my life. Sarah Wall, the very first Miss International, was the woman behind this event. She organized this gathering turning hunger into hope for so many children.  

XOXO,

Krista Wanous

Miss International 2012

New York, New York!

For those of you who have been reading my blogs, or if you know me well, you already know that one of my favorites places in the world is New York City! When the American Heart Association so graciously asked me to emcee the 10th Anniversary event of Turning Broadway Red to kick of National Wear Red Day, I was elated! You may have seen the posting of the actual event held on January 30th, which was truly memorable; however, I want to highlight a few other special opportunities that happened during my time in the city that never sleeps!

Most notable, I was joined outside Macy’s by the lovely Jesse Ladoue, Miss New York International 2013 and following the event we shared some fabulous Italian cuisine at Trattoria. This is one of my favorite spots just a short walk from the Harvard Club NYC and one half block from Times Square.

With Jesse Ladoue, Miss New York International 2013!

Speaking of the Harvard Club, where I am a member, I have to mention that the staff has been over the moon about the International Pageant and they showed me an enlarged photo of Krista, Gabby and me as the three Minnesota International titleholders posted on the wall from our visit last Memorial Weekend.

When I am in New York, I almost consider it a crime not to take in a Broadway show, so I used this opportunity to select a show with one of the women I would be introducing at the Go Red event the next evening. If you are not familiar with the TKTS booth, you can stand in line in the middle of Times Square the afternoon/evening before a production and purchase tickets at a discount. I was able to get a seat in the 4th row at half price to watch the performance of the Tony Award-winning Judy Kaye was starring with Matthew Broderick in Nice Work If You Can Get It! I couldn’t wait to let Ms. Kaye know that the scene with her swinging from the chandelier had me in stitches!

Times Square 

Nice Work If You Can Get It!

Finally, because the weather was so cooperative for January, I had a chance to take a long walk down 5th Avenue and of course stop at one of the most famous ice skating spots in the world; the rink at Rockefeller Center. This visit did not allow for me to carry my skates, but I love being near the ice and watching all the fun!

The Ice Skating Rink at Rockefeller Center

Thank you again to the American Heart Association for asking me to share in your anniversary celebration of such an important message. And, if you are a friend of NYC wonderful…if not, you might want to consider an adventure in this vibrant city.

With sincere appreciation,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Ruff Ryders Football

When James "Rambo" Smith (aka The Singing Fireman) invited me to make a guest appearance at a charity football game in North Carolina between the Wilson Ruff Ryders and the Carolina Rams semi-pro football teams and shared with me the money raised at this particular game would benefit both the UNC Burn Center and the Ronald McDonald House Chapel Hill, I did not hesitate to accept. The appearance turned out to be a weekend filled with wonderful opportunities to meet some truly gracious people.

We started on Saturday morning with a tour of the Contentnea Fire Department in Wilson, North Carolina. This is the station where James serves as a firefighter, and it was a pleasure to meet the men who help to protect this charming community.

With members of the Contentnea Fire Department

As soon as we arrived I was brought out to center field during warm-ups to address both teams. For those of you who do not know my background, I have coached power skating for men's hockey teams from Mites through College and beyond for years, therefore, addressing these athletes felt like a being on home turf. I shared with the players the correlation between their commitment to charity and the commitment of the International Pageant participants. Though I intentionally wore the colors of the team that invited me to the game, I made certain all the players knew that there is nothing more fun than watching a good football game, and as a former football cheer captain I was sincerely looking forward to the afternoon!

Following the National Anthem sung by The Singing Fireman, I again found myself in center field as I was asked to toss the coin for kick-off position. My final responsibility for the afternoon was the presentation of the trophy. Thankfully many of the guys took a knee, but once I handed off the hardware, it was hilarious as I was swallowed up in a sea of shoulder pads and grass stained uniforms. If you look really close, you might be able to find the crown!

Addressing the Ruff Ryders and Carolina Rams. 

Meeting the game Officials. 

Coin toss...tails and the Rams receive! 

Presentation of the game trophy.

The Celebration!

During the game I was kept busy with fans including; two burn survivors who shared their personal stories with me, the Wilson County EMS stopped by, the Jaycees were represented, I addressed the crowd during half-time, also posed for photos and signed autograph cards.

Burn Survivors. 

Wilson County EMS. 

Who doesn't love a megaphone...

Future cheerleaders and football stars!

Carolina Rams Coach. 

Ruff Ryders Owner. 

Ruff Ryder, his brother and mother who delivered the pre-game prayer.

From Wilson we traveled to Chapel Hill, where we were able to score a table at the extremely popular Top of the Hill Restaurant and Brewery, which happens to be in part owned by James January, another burn survivor...it helps to call ahead and ask one of the owners to dine with you. Once we arrived, January and his friend Peter waved us over and we enjoyed some really good food on the covered and heated roof top patio that overlooks the heart of Chapel Hill.

Peter, James, me, and James

The next day we started in Raleigh with a visit to Fire Station #1 and I witnessed my first live firefighter sliding down the fire pole in action. The Chief was gracious enough to share some time with me and several of the firefighters joined James and me as we walked across the street to visit the Fallen Firefighters Memorial.

I wasn't quick enough to capture the blue flash coming down the fire pole for a call, but captured the pole! 

Chief John McGrath.

Firemen with me at the NC Fallen Firefighters Memorial. 

It was time to return to Chapel Hill to tour the Jaycee Burn Center at UNC and Ronald McDonald House. First, we met with the coaches and players in the lobby; presented a donation to the burn center, and then we were guided through our tour by Ernest Grant. It was also nice to be joined by Anthony, who happens to be the son of the Carolina Rams coach, and he is a burn survivor who was cared for at UNC.

We had a chance to see the entire facility, which will soon have a total of 40 beds available. As we met burn care staff and patients, the players were able to ask questions and they even shared an autographed jersey with one special young lady. She was excited about the jersey, but went bananas for my crown!

 Ernest Grant with UNC Burn Center. 

A burn survivor who could not get enough of my bling! 

The team members, coaches, owners, and staff who presented the donation and participated in our tour.

Our final stop was at the Ronald McDonald House. We were given a tour by the weekend house manager, Stacey. This particular house was one that provided a home for Coach, while Anthony was in the burn center. Stacey was presented with gifts for the families and a donation by both teams. While we toured the house one special little girl asked to have her picture taken with me. I signed a head shot for her and gladly smiled with her. What a beautiful way to wrap up my time in North Carolina.

Presentation to the Ronald McDonald House Chapel Hill. 

Was a treat to take a picture with this lovely young lady!

With love and appreciation,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012