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