"Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt."

Tonight I had the privilege of participating in the GA Winter Special Olympics at the Cobb Civic Center. Titleholders from across the state come together to escort all the athletes into the Opening Ceremonies.This was my third time attending the winter Olympics, and every year I am reminded how incredible and inspiring all of these athletes are. The energy and support they showed for each other is remarkable--these athletes understand the importance of friendship and teamwork.

After the ceremony, the titleholders all sign autographs, take pictures, and dance with the athletes. This is truly an indescribable experience. The athletes absolutely love the queens who volunteer their time and it shows in their faces. They make us all feel like royalty. I met a young girl tonight who truly touched my heart. She was a tiny little thing, about five years old, with a ton of energy. She told me a joke, gave me a hug, and told me she loved me. Another young boy was really shy and overwhelmed by all the noise. I went to talk to him and after I autographed a card for him he gave me a giant hug. I don't know what meant more to me the smile on his face, or the glow on his mother's. To know that one simple act can really impact the life of another person is the most rewarding thing I could ask for.

This is what being a titleholder is all about...

On my way out a parent of a child looked me in the eye and said, "thank you so much for your time. It means the world to these kids." I could tell by the sincerity in his voice he truly meant it. I know I have made a difference in their lives, but these athletes have left a lasting impression on my heart as well. I am so grateful to be a part of such a wonderful program that builds confidence and courage in the minds of  all the athletes--young and old alike.

"Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt." --Special Olympics Athlete Oath

My First Appearances as Miss Rome

Today was my first official appearance as Miss Rome. I had the privilege of judging the Spelling Bee for the fourth and fifth graders at Sope Creek Elementary school in Marietta, GA. 13 students, one representing each class, participated in the Spelling Bee and the winner advances to the County Spelling Bee. I was so impressed by all of the contestants ability to stand up in front of all their peers and spell some advanced words such as "succinct" and "lugubrious". The winner spelled "cinematographer" correctly in order to win the honor of the Sope Creek Spelling Bee Champ! The classmates of each contestant were all so supportive--cheering on their representative. I enjoyed being apart of this event and would like to congratulate all the participants on an outstanding job!

The judges for Sope Creek's Annual Spelling Bee

The winner (4th grader!) and first runner-up

I also had the opportunity to speak to the students of a fifth grade classroom about the role of Children's Miracle Network and answered some of their questions about the Miss America Organization. Many of the students were familiar with Scottish Rite, the local CMN hospital, and were interested in how Miss America contestants help raise funds for a hospital where many of them have received medical care. They were also curious about all the responsibilities of a titleholder in the Miss America Organization and asked great question such as "How do you balance your title with school?" and "What do you have to do to prepare for a pageant?" They were also intrigued by the amount of scholarships made available by MAO each year. It is my hope that all the students have a better understanding of the Miss America Organization's mission to promote service and scholarship in young women and provide us with lifeskills that lead us to a more successful future.

Ms. Jenkins' 5th grade Class

The Adventure Begins

Evening Gown Competition

 Saturday, January 8th, I competed in the Miss Rome Scholarship Pageant and am excited to say I was crowned the new Miss Rome 2011! I also won preliminary swimsuit and interview awards which both had additional scholarships. In total I was awarded $2,200 and the opportunity to compete at Miss Georgia this June. I would like to congratulate all the wonderful young women I competed with as well as Miss Rome's Outstanding Teen 2011, Amelia Hunt. I met some amazing girls and hope to continue to build on our new friendships.

My wonderfully supportive family after the crowning

I cannot wait for my upcoming year as Miss Rome! The preparations for Miss GA, appearances, and continued work with my platform are all helping me to be more successful in the future. It is my goal to represent the state of Georgia as Miss America one day. I am so thankful for the opportunity to represent the city of Rome and am excited to see what the next year will hold!

Miss Rome's Outstanding Teen, Amelia Hunt (left) and 

Miss Rome, Stephanie Burkholder (right) 

with the Miss Rome Board of Directors.

For those of you unfamiliar with the Miss America Organization, each contestant is required to have her own personal platform which she endorses through her year as a titleholder. My platform is the Boys and Girls Club of America. I have many plans to further my involvement with this wonderful organization while continuing to be a mentor and positive role model for all children.

Also, Children's Miracle Network is the national philanthropy for the Miss America Organization. Throughout my reign I will also be working closely with CMN to raise support for their foundation and volunteering at local hospitals. If you would like to learn more about CMN or the Miss America Organization visit the links posted on my blog.

I feel so blessed to be your current Miss Rome. Miss Georgia here we come!