Hi everyone!

I hope this message finds you happy and in good health. So much to write about- I better get started!

Competing for the job of Miss America is everything I thought it would be, and more! I had an outstanding time, met some of the most incredible people, and have memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life- and best of all, I was representing our beautiful state and all the people who live there. I so proudly wore my sash that said "KANSAS" on it, knowing in my heart that I was there for all of you, representing you to the very best of my ability. Although I did not make the Top 15, I am happy to tell you that I left Las Vegas knowing that I laid my heart on the line and gave every last drop of effort into the experience.

Now eight months into working for the Miss Kansas Organization, I'd like to take a moment to remind you exactly what our program is about. Yes, the Miss Kansas Organization is about scholarship. Each year we provide over $50,000 in cash scholarships to women competing for the title of Miss Kansas. We also very proudly offer $2, 750,000 through in-kind scholarships as well. We are so proud to help young women further their college education and fulfill their personal and professional goals. However, what many do not realize is that the Miss Kansas Organization is not just about the scholarships. Although many women compete for the financial assistance, just as many compete for the personal growth. Through my personal experience in the Miss Kansas Organization, first as a competitor and then as the state representative, I have had the privilage of watching the women around me push themselves outside of their comfort zone, learn about themselves as women, and blossom in confidence and self esteem. These women are strong, independent, scholastically ambitious, focused on bringing positive change to their communities, courageous, and my favorite, just plain fun to be around. Now that my journey through the Miss Kansas Organization is starting to come to an end, I catch myself reflecting on my own personal growth. Because of the opportunities the Miss Kansas Organization has provided for me, I can now handle any style of interview, I can communicate effectively with all kinds of people, I can fundraise, I can think on my feet, I can give presentations at the drop of a hat, I can shop in a mall and feel confident in the purchases I make for myself, I can get ready in the morning and feel proud of how I look in the mirror, I can perform my talent to any kind of audience, and most of all, I can give more of myself to others than I ever thought I could. We are an organization unlike any other, because we provide the financial help and personal growth to last a lifetime.

I have had some wonderful appearances since I have been home from Miss America and am looking forward to a great last few months as Miss K! Since I have been home, I have visited Salina, Liberal, Kansas City, Manhattan, Meade, Belle Plaine, and Wichita.

The shout out for this blog goes to the many friends and family that traveled to Vegas to support my efforts at Miss America. To Deb, Whitney, Melissa, Christina, Brian, Brandon, Sam, Stacie, Shameem, Erica, Cassi, Chelsea, my MKO family, Mom, Dad, Mandy, and so many more, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support was so special to me!

Blessings,
Becki

Dear friends,

Before I head to the Miss America Pageant on Thursday, I want to take what may be my last moment as Miss Kansas to share with you the impact the Miss Kansas Organization has had on my life, and how truly blessed I am to be representing all of you as Miss Kansas 2009.

As I reflect on the memories I’ve made and the relationships I’ve been so fortunate to foster through the Miss Kansas Organization, their sheer abundance makes it difficult to choose a suitable place to begin. From an early age, I came to love the pageant not because of the glitz and glamour associated with the crown or the contestants, but because it had played such a prominent role in my family’s history. Growing up, my parents were actively engaged in the organization, and since the pageant would always coincide with my birthday, each year my “gift” was a backstage pass to the pageant! Instead of watching from the audience, I had the unique opportunity to get “up close and personal” with the contestants, to interact with them and to learn from their experiences. I will never forget walking on stage with the contestants during their rehearsal and eating lunch with the many volunteers, but perhaps most distinctively, I remember meeting and getting to know the current respective Miss Kansas on a very personal level. In June of 1993, I got the chance to meet Pam McKelvy the week she would crown the new Miss Kansas. Upon our acquaintance, she knelt down to me, looked me straight in the eye and said “Hi Becki, I've heard a lot about you.” I was so shocked—I couldn’t believe she knew who I was! The following year I cheered on a family friend of ours, Trisha Shaffer, who then became Miss Kansas 1994. From that moment onward, I knew I wanted to be Miss Kansas, too.

I never fully grasped the impact the Miss Kansas Organization would have on my life until I began competing at age 19. I had always known that I wanted to make a difference in the world I lived in, but never exactly understood how I wanted to go about making that impact. As a contestant, I was given the opportunity to stand up for something I believed in, promoting the arts in schools, which I chose as my platform. I also learned that in order to take a stand for the arts, I also had to understand and accept who I was as a woman. Thanks to the Miss Kansas Organization, I am not only proud of the person that I am, but proud of the person it has helped me become—a stronger, more focused, driven and refined woman.

To me, the role of Miss Kansas is not about the tangible benefits many outside observers typically associate with the crown—serving our great state as Miss Kansas is about the overwhelming intrinsic worth that comes with being a servant, a role model and a representative. Being Miss Kansas is about providing children with inspiration, adults with motivation, and the elderly with encouragement. Every day is an opportunity to meet new people, share my story with them, and show them the bona fide, genuine beauty that is the Miss Kansas Organization. It's about wholeheartedly giving yourself to each and every community you visit; It’s about treating every single person you meet with the same warmth as the last, regardless of who they are or where they are from. Truly, the “power of the crown” lies in the opportunity every Miss Kansas has been blessed with to change others’ lives for the better, all the while improving her own life.

I would be overjoyed to represent our beautiful state at the national level as Miss America 2010, and can promise you that I will put my whole heart and soul on the line while competing, giving it every bit of energy and strength I've got. But if I don't win, I will proudly return to Kansas, ready and eager to serve the wonderful people of our state until I hand the job over to the next winner in June. Whatever may happen in the next three weeks I will handle with grace, in part because of all of you.

Thank you for your endless support. I am forever grateful.

Bless you all,

Becki

Dear friends,

Happy Holidays! I hope this blog finds you well, in good health, and enjoying this blessed holiday season.

My travels since I last wrote you have taken me many wonderful places, including: Brewster, Goodland, Manhattan, Wichita, Buhler, Hutchinson, Ulysses, Hugoton, Healy, Pratt, Derby, Garden City, Greensburg, Minneola, and Emporia! As of today, I have added approximately 13 thousand miles on the car sponsored by Western Motors. I wish I could write about every appearance, but I may end up writing a novel that way! Here are just a few highlights of many that I have had during the month of November.

Early in November, Katie Stam, our current Miss America, came to Wichita on behalf of the ladies of Delta Gamma of Wichita State University. Our very own, Lauren Werhan (4th Runner-Up this past year at Miss Kansas) planned the event, and did an outstanding job. While Katie was in town, we visited the Via Christi Children's Miracle Network children, went to dinner, and also spent some time at Washington Elementary school. I felt so honored to be a part of the festivities while Katie was in Kansas, and had a truly memorable time. Thank you, Lauren! We appreciate all your hard work and dedication to the Miss Kansas and Miss America Organizations!

While at Washington Elementary, the Miss Kansas Organization and I were THRILLED to release my recently published coloring book, "Sally and Sammie Enjoy the Arts!" We donated a coloring book to each child in Kindergarten and 1st Grade, and both Katie and I sat down to color with all the children during our visit. The coloring book is directed toward children between the ages of 3-9 years old, and highlights the different options to choose from in the arts, whether it is theater, dance, speech, writing, photography, visual art, or instrumental and vocal music. The coloring book will be posted on our website in the very near future for purchase, so stay tuned!

I headed to the University of Kansas vs. Kansas State University football game on the 7th of November, and was so excited, I could hardly contain myself! As many of you may know, I am a very proud KSU Wildcat, and was honored when they invited me to do the coin toss at the game! I was even proposed to by Big Jay of the University of Kansas, got a "high-five" by Willie the Wildcat of Kansas State, and met many, many wonderful football fans in our state. Thank you to the KSU Alumni Center for inviting me and providing the tickets to the game, I had such a wonderful time.

I also would like to invite you to a very exciting event in Hutchinson, Kansas, coming up on December 17th, 2009. The Hutchinson Symphony has invited me to perform the first movement of the Haydn Trumpet Concerto in E Flat during their annual Christmas concert at the Fox Theater. This concert will mark my first solo performance with an orchestra, and I am so thrilled for the opportunity. I hope to see you there, 7:30 on December 17th in Hutchinson, Kansas!

Six months into the job of Miss Kansas, I still wake up every morning and feel as though I should pinch myself to make sure it isn’t a dream. I have been so profoundly blessed by the Miss Kansas Organization to serve as their representative and sincerely cherish the role I’ve been given this year. As I continue to travel all across the state and speak to wide and diverse audiences, I make a point to remind myself of the many people I’ve met along the way, each of whom have inspired me to become a better person, to lay my heart and soul on the line for the people of Kansas, and to hopefully become Miss America 2010. Simply put, the volunteers and sponsors of the organization make it the great organization that it is, and I would not be who I am today without each and every one of them. If there was a way to do my "shout out" to hundreds of people at once, this is how I would: Thank you, thank you, thank you to the many members of the Miss Kansas Organization family! I love you all!

Best wishes for a wonderful holiday season!

Bless you all,

Becki

Dear friends,

Today, I have a story to warm your heart about a little boy that I met this past week while giving a school presentation.

He was a second grader, a small boy with a big grin on his face. As I spoke, I noticed that he was listening very carefully, and would nod at me when I made eye contact with him. I was discussing the importance of having goals and why we set goals for ourselves. Instantly, his small hand shot up in the air. I paused for a moment to answer his question, and when I did, he stood up and said loudly and proudly, "Miss Kansas, I have a goal, and I will work hard because of you!"

I have the honor of being a spark of motivation for children. However, I have learned that as I am a spark for them, that the children are even more of a spark of motivation for myself. As I continue to meet the people of Kansas, I appreciate how incredible of a state I am able to represent, the wonderful people who live here, and understand that as years pass, our state will continue to be just as remarkable because of the children who are learning and growing right here in Kansas.

As always, I am continuing to stay quite busy. The past few weeks I have traveled to Udall, Andover, Kinsley, Derby, Pratt, Wichita, Hutchinson, Buhler, Perry, Towanda, Benton, El Dorado, and Clearwater! My theme song should be "On the Road Again."

Also, I am honored to annouce that Katie Stam, our current Miss America, is coming to Kansas to speak on November 2nd at the Wichita State University Metroplex in Wichita, Kansas. This event is free and open to the public, and will begin at 7:00PM. I would love to see you all there!

We have a number of new titleholders to acknowledge, welcoming three new miss titleholders to the class of 2010 Miss Kansas sisterhood and two new teen titleholders to the class of 2010 Miss Kansas Oustanding Teen sisterhood! A big CONGRATULATIONS from the Miss Kansas Organization to Sheena Stoddard, Miss Midway 2010, Lauren Coston, Miss Hay Capitol 2010, and Belinda Post, Miss Maple Leaf 2010! Another congratulations to Shelby Corder, Miss Maple Leaf Oustanding Teen 2010, and Margie Hartwig, Miss Hay Capitol Oustanding Teen 2010! We are so proud to have each of you as a representative of the Miss Kansas Organization!

Lastly, this post's shout out is dedicated to the woman who can do it all- my mother, Lisa. She is my helper, organizer, cook, editor, work out buddy, and best friend, and I couldn't do it without her. Thank you momma, I love you!

Seems as if colder weather is around the corner for us here in Kansas. Stay warm!

All my blessings,
Becki

Dear friends,

Time seems to be flying by- my sincerest apologies for making you wait this long for my next blog update. BUT- Great news! Because it's been a while, I will make it up to you by writing an abnormally long post.

Much has happened since I last wrote to you. Every day is a new adventure as Miss Kansas, and with each day comes a bigger, fuller sense of pride to be representing the Miss Kansas Organization. I have certainly been keeping quite busy, promoting what the Miss Kansas and Miss America Organizations provide to young women each year, what it's like to be Miss Kansas, how I received the job of Miss Kansas, and many other aspects of the position in 3 radio interviews and two commercials since my last post! I've also made appearances at the Kansas State Fair, the Miss Wooded Hills local pageant, St. Joseph School, Holy Spirit Catholic School, the Kansas Masonic Home, among many others. My schedule seems to be getting busier by the second- and I couldn't be more honored to be welcomed into each appearance as the current Miss Kansas 2009.

Preparations for the Miss America Pageant in January are coming along beautifully! It's certainly not an easy task preparing for the job of Miss America, but I am working extremely hard and am so looking forward to representing Kansas to the best of my ability in Las Vegas. With the preparation comes consistent development of my platform- and speaking of PLATFORM...

I'd like to officially annouce I have a new title for my platform. It is called "The Arts: A Pathway to Creativity and Innovation." When on the road speaking on the importance of arts education as Miss Kansas, many people have come up to me and asked if I am upset that I won the title during one of the lowest years economically in our country's history, implying that the arts are continuing to be put on the backburner this year, or even cut completely from many schools across the United States. My response is quite the contrary. Now more than ever, someone must stand up and be a powerful voice for arts education, and as Miss Kansas, and hopefully Miss America, I am willingly up to this challenge. The beautiful concept of arts education is the simple fact that just because some may not want to be a musician or artist professionally does not mean that the creativity they gained through arts classes will go to waste. Have you ever noticed how some of the world's most successful businesses are as successful as they are because they produced a product completely different than anything we had ever had before? These businesses had some creative people on their side. Creativity is a powerful tool that many overlook. With every opportunity that is set in front of me, I urge educators across our state that no matter what your students want to do professionally, to encourage them to think out of the box, to think creatively. Pushing creative thinkers in the classroom NOW will in turn lead to a healthier and more successful economy.

Also- I have a few "congratulations!" to do! A big 'thumbs up' from me and the Miss Kansas Organization to Staci Klinginsmith, the new Miss Wooded Hills 2010, Berkley Matthews, Miss Leavenworth County Outstanding Teen 2010, and Leslie Carillo, Miss Wooded Hills Oustanding Teen 2010. I am very proud of all three of you, and so excited to see the difference you will make in other's lives as you spend this coming year holding your title. Congratulations!

Last, but certainly not least, I cannot write a blog without a shout out! This post's shout out goes to my beautiful sister, and part-time traveling companion, Mandy. I love her dearly, even though she is a Nebraska Husker... now that is true love!

All my blessings,

Becki

Hi everyone!

I am home from sunny Florida, and am anxious to tell you what I've been up to recently!

First of all, I'm excited to tell you we have crowned our very first contestant for the 2010 Miss Kansas Pageant! I was honored to be a special guest for the Miss Old Settler's Pageant, and crowned Sandi Dreitz as our very first titleholder of the season. Congratulations to Sandi, and best wishes for a wonderful year representing Halstead, Kansas!

Also, I was asked to do an autograph signing in Dillards at the Towne East Mall in Wichita for the Antonio Melani women's clothing section, and had a blast getting to know shoppers in Dillard's that afternoon. I wore a number of stunning Antonio Melani outfits as I mingled through the department, and encourage you all to visit this section, and see what beautiful options they have to choose from! Thanks to Jenni and Mickey for the invitation!

Last Wednesday, I flew to Florida to support our Miss Kansas Oustanding Teen, Chelsea Chilcott as she competed for the title of Miss America's Oustanding Teen, and also to meet the other 52 contestants competing for the title of Miss America! They say you meet your bridesmaids at Miss America, and now that I have met these women, I understand fully this statement- these women are incredible! I am so blessed to have met them. Congratulations to Chelsea for representing Kansas so beautifully in Florida, and to all my Miss America sisters- I can't wait to see you all again in Vegas!

Lastly, I'd like to give this post's shout out to Kansas' representative for the National Sweetheart pageant, Alex Miller. Best of luck, Alex! We are proud of you!

I can hardly believe the summer is coming to a quick end. All my blessings to the students starting a new semester!

Hugs,

Becki

Dear friends,

Lesson #1 learned as Miss Kansas: a GPS system is truly a life essential.

Things are kicking into high gear for me, and I am truly loving and embracing every moment.

Recently, I was asked to be a guest soloist with the Wichita Senseney Band, and played A Trumpeter's Lullaby by Leroy Anderson. I have performed this particular piece many times, but I must say- we gave quite a performance! Thanks to Senseney Music and all members of the Senseney Band. You are outstanding musicians, and I so enjoyed working with you!

I am proud to say I have officially completed my Miss America paperwork, and am so thrilled with the changes we made. We have such a great team here in Kansas- I am so blessed to have their expertise and guidance!

I also was a special guest in El Dorado, KS for the Butler Showchoir Showcase. This was my 6th year returning, and every year, I leave stunned of the incredible students that attend and the faculty, staff, and clinicians that Valerie Mack brings in to help. To all my friends at Butler Community College, and to Valerie Mack, thank you so much! You are truly an inspiration to all.

Lastly, I have a bit of exciting news! I have the coolest car in all of Kansas- really, I do! Inkt Graphics and Western Motors earned this post's shout out- Thank you Troy, Elyse, and the Western Motors gang.

I could go on forever about the incredible people I've met and the places I have been on my journey as Miss Kansas. But, never a moment to spare! I'm off to my next event!

All my blessings,

Becki

Dear friends,

I must share a story with you that I am certain will bring a smile to your face. Recently, I attended the 4th of July celebration in Wamego, Kansas. While there, I rode in the parade, mingled through the local carnival, and performed on my trumpet before the fireworks show in the evening. While at the carnival, the cutest little girl came up to me, alongside her dad, and asked for a picture. She had just turned five years old. Of course, we posed together, and after the picture was taken, she looked at me, her eyes wide and bright, and said, "Do you live in a castle?"

I'm often asked what my favorite part of being Miss Kansas is, and although the title is still quite fresh, one of the many perks is meeting the children. To see her walk off with her dad, wiggling with excitement because she met me, reminds me how wonderful it is to be able to positively affect our youth. I am honored to be a role model for them.

Also, I am proud to share some wonderful news! The Miss Kansas Organization has a new car sponsor, from Garden City, KS! Western Motors and their partnering business, Inkt Graphics will be supporting me this year, as I travel all over the state. I am so excited for the things we can accomplish together, and am proud to represent their businesses! Thank you so much for your support, and I look forward to working with you!

Keep an eye out for new pictures on the website, as a few weeks ago, I traveled to Nashville to take my official photos as Miss Kansas. I had a blast with Kristy, Joel, Daryl, and the crew- you all were so wonderful to me, and I thank you so much for your warmth and guidance!

Lastly, by request, I have decided to make the "shout out" a tradition for my posts as Miss Kansas. This post's shout out goes to the man who makes sure I look great wherever I go- thank you, Daryl! You're a blessing!

Warmest regards,

Becki

Hi everyone! I can hardly believe I'm writing my first blog as your Miss Kansas 2009. It's been quite the whirlwind of a week- with lots of paperwork, thank you notes, visits, and much more. You could say that I've been a very busy woman.

My time has recently been spent letting our sponsors know just how much we appreciate them by giving personal visits, a handwritten thank you note, or both. Every business I've visited has been incredibly welcoming and warm- we are so blessed to have such wonderful support from a wide variety of businesses!

My schedule is starting to get busier and busier- have I also mentioned how STELLAR my booking agent is? It is only appropriate that I give a shout out to her, and all the hard work she has put in. Yay, Kim!

This past Thursday, I went to my first hair appointment at de-al hair salon in Wichita. Some of you may not recognize me... I am now a dark brunette! I also made a few TV appearances last week at KSN Channel 3 News and KAKE Channel 10 News, and had a wonderful time.

Before I go, I'd like to officially invite you to my homecoming celebration at Risen Savior Lutheran Church, this coming Friday the 19th, from 7-9PM in Wichita. I'd love to see all of you- and would be honored if you came to celebrate this new chapter of my life with me! The church is located right on K96 and Woodlawn. I look forward to seeing you!

Wishing you a wonderful week,

Becki