Character Counts!

On Monday June 13, I was invited to come speak to Mrs. Vahle's Modeling and Manners camp at Moye Elementary School. I was so excited to share with the girls the importance of character in our lives, and give them some inspiration for the future. I told them that no matter how pretty you are, or what types of material items you have in order to have good character you must have a good heart.

I was inspired by their stories of what they have done and do for others, and was proud of them. I shared with them the phrase " To be other-minded" which I explained means putting others before ourselves, and just how important that is.

I also shared with the girls the importance of never giving up on a dream or goal that they have. I told them that my journey to my dream of someday becoming Miss Illinois has not been an easy one. There have been many times when I haven't won a pageant, or have faced challenges. I told them that without these experiences I wouldn't appreciate or be as thankful for the many opportunities I have been given. There is a quote that I really like by Dr. Randy Pausch, " When you don't get what you want, you get experience" and I shared this with the girls and told them that through my experiences I have gained and learned so much. I also told them that if they work hard, have a good heart, and never give up they can obtain any goal they have in their heart.


I had such a wonderful time speaking and listening to these young ladies. I know that they have so much ahead for the future. Special thanks to Mrs. Vahle for inviting me, and being such a great friend and supporter.

I am beyond excited for Miss Illinois week. I am at peace in my heart with whatever happens, because I know that it is all in God's hands. Thank you to everyone who has supported me and have given me advice. I appreciate you and love you!

Thank you for reading, and check back often!

Sincerely,

Jamie Johnson

Miss Capital City 2011

Spring Forum

This past weekend I traveled to Springfield to attend the Miss Illinois Spring Forum. I had a wonderful time learning more about the organization and getting to meet the 25 contestants I will be sharing this journey with.

The weekend began with a visit to St. John's Children's Hospital. At the hospital we were split into groups and given tours of different parts of the hospital. We had the opportunity to visit pediatric rehab, pediatrics, and the NICU. It was an honor to meet families and patients of the hospital. It was evident that despite their struggles, they were still so strong. It was also neat to be able to actually see what the Children's Miracle Network has provided the hospital, and that made me proud that as titleholders we work to raise funds and awareness for the CMN.

After the tour we checked in at Spring Forum, turning in the final pieces of paperwork. I had a great time reuniting with past friends, as well as making new ones. We then attended our welcome meeting and eagerly awaited finding out our contestant numbers and roommates. This year I am contestant number 16 in the Omega group. This is the first time in my 4 years competing that I have been an Omega. I am looking forward to the change and eagerly am awaiting Miss Illinois week. I also found out that my roommate is the beautiful Miss Chatham Glenwood Hillary Hammond, we are going to have so much fun. After the meeting we headed to the Capitol to take a group picture.

The next day we had rehearsal for our opening number, attended meetings about stage presence, fitness, and interview. These were all very informational, and I am appreciative to those who led these seminars.

My favorite part of the day, however, was having the opportunity to listen to and meet Miss America 2009 Katie Stam. Katie gave a beautiful speech which was encouraging and inspirational. It is clear that she was meant to be Miss America. Katie even spent time speaking to each contestant which made each of us feel very special.

One part of Katie's speech truly has stuck with me. Katie gave this piece of advice " Live your life as if the person you love the most is watching you at all times." Hearing this, it helps to think about attitude and character which are so important in our lives, and this quote is a great reminder to be our best self.

I am thankful to have had such a wonderful Spring Forum, and am looking forward to the weeks ahead.

Thank you for reading!

Sincerely,

Jamie Johnson

Miss Capital City 2011

Children's Miracle Network Radiothon

Last Thursday I had the opportunity to volunteer at the Children's Miracle Network radiothon at St. Louis Children's Hospital. From volunteering last year, I knew I wanted to participate again. I spent the afternoon answering calls as people called in to donate to the CMN. I enjoyed hearing the caller's stories of why they wanted to donate, and what it meant to them. The Children's Miracle Network of Greater St. Louis put me on line one which meant that when a call came in it came to me first. It was such a wonderful experience listening to the stories of the children and seeing how some of them have more life than those who have never been sick. Throughout the two days of the radiothon, the CMN raised over $124,000, which will be used to help the children who I see as little heroes.

Next week I will travel to Springfield for the Miss Illinois Spring Forum. I am looking forward to visiting St.John's Hospital, meeting the other contestants, and listening to Miss America 2009 Katie Stam speak.

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog!

Jamie Johnson

Miss Capital City 2011

I can't believe it is May!

Wow! I can't believe it is already May. The last few months have been very busy for me. This past Friday I finished my student teaching at Bluffview Elementary in Dupo, IL. I had such a wonderful experience teaching first grade in Dupo, and will miss my cooperating teacher and her students very much. In one week I will graduate from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, and I am looking forward to this special day, and starting a new chapter of my life.

Over the past couple months, I have had the opportunity to participate in some exciting events as Miss Capital City.

In March, I visited Illini Elementary School. I spoke to Mrs.Deet's second grade classroom about Character Counts, making good decisions, and working hard towards your dreams and goals. It was a neat experience to listen to what the students had to say regarding character, and how they try to achieve good character in their lives. Thank you to Mrs. Deets and Illini school for welcoming me into your building and classroom!

In April, I had the chance to attend the Williamson County Child Advocacy Dinner and Auction. I was invited to this event by Miss John A. Logan's Teen Miss Mandy Marsh. Mandy was my teen last year, and has become a true friend of mine. The advocacy auction raises money for children who have been abused. At this event, myself and the other Miss Illinois titleholders greeted guests, and led the group in the electric slide to raise money. I had a great time, and was happy to attend this event that truly makes a difference in children's lives.

Lastly, I recently had been informed that I have a new Miss Capital City Princess, Miss Delani!

Delani is a kindergartner, and is so sweet. I am looking forward to the year ahead with Delani, and having a great time at Miss Illinois.

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog! Please check back often. On May 12, I will be participating in the St. Louis Children's Hospital CMN Radiothon. Please tune in to 102.5 KEZK, to listen and to donate.

Jamie Johnson

Miss Capital City 2011

Daddy Daughter Dance

On February 11th, I was invited to attend O'Fallon's Daddy Daughter Dance. This is a night where dad's treat their daughters to a night of dancing, treats, and fancy dresses! Last year I attended the dance, and had a wonderful time. I was excited when I got the call asking to come back again.

One of the things I love about the dance is that the girls have a genuine fun time. They are treated like princesses from the moment they arrive.

This year, I greeted each couple as they came through the door, pinning the dads' boutonnieres and giving the girls their corsages. I then danced the night away to some of the girls favorite songs including their favorites from Taylor Swift and of course Justin Beiber. :)

I had a great time and was honored to be invited back!

Jamie Johnson

Miss Capital City 2011

CMN Trivia night

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit St.John's Hospital in Springfield to help emcee the Children's Miracle Network Trivia night. I worked with ABC Channel 20's Joe Crain and Central Illinois CW's Christina Xamis to emcee the night. We had a great time, and even learned some new trivia. Example.. How far can you walk from the energy from eating one chocolate chip? ( Scroll down for the answer :) )

The best part of the event was that is raised money for the Children's Miracle Network, and all of the profit made stays right at St.John's to help the families. I was so happy to have participated in such a wonderful event.

Also this month I got to go to lunch with my princesses Kalei and Sophie. I am looking forward to having them as my princesses and making memories. Aren't they adorable!

I hope everyone is staying warm in our sub zero temperatures! Check back often!

Jamie Johnson

Miss Capital City 2011

Answer to the trivia question......

150 feet!

Miss Capital City 2011!

On November 28, 2010 I traveled to Springfield to compete in the Miss Capital City pageant. On that evening I was honored to be named Miss Capital City 2011. I feel so blessed and fortunate to have this opportunity in my life. I am looking forward to seeing where this journey will lead me. Thank you to my family and friends who have supported me along the way, I appreciate everything! Also, a huge thank you to my new director Rachel Johnson, who has done nothing but be supportive and give great advice since being crowned. I am looking forward to working with you this year.
Please check back often as I share my journey with you. I have always believed that the best way to prepare yourself for Miss Illinois, is to first be a fantastic local titleholder. I hope to achieve this by being the best role model, and advocate for my platform as well as our state and national platforms as I can.
Thank you for reading, and Happy New Year!
Jamie Johnson
Miss Capital City 2011