You Can Influence TV!

Angie here: I felt this article was so good that I am posting it (with proper attribution as required). After you read it, I'd love to hear your thoughts.

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net -- E-mail: assistnews@aol.com

Friday, March 2, 2012

You Can Influence TV!

By Beverly Caruso
Special to ASSIST News Service SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (ANS) -- You've probably considered-at least once or twice-selling or giving away your television set. You've become disgusted with the selection of shows, or frustrated with yourself for watching questionable content. You may be angry that your children are exposed to certain material. Maybe you've felt helpless about having any influence over what is aired.

American family watching TV together

You can have influence! Here are five steps to take toward influencing what is broadcast on television:
1. Be selective in what you and your family members watch. Television is a business. Advertisers pay for the shows because viewers watch the shows and buy their products. Producers make the shows because viewers watch the shows and keep the advertisers paying the bills.
Those advertisers make their decisions about which shows to spend their money on based on ratings. This is determined by professional agencies that use scientific methods to determine what percentage of viewers are watching specific shows. If you don't like or approve of a television show, change the channel or turn off the set.
2. Complain in an effective way. We usually think we need a national campaign to protest what we don't like. More often we simply complain to one another. You may be unhappy with a show and know others are unhappy also. To be effective, let the advertisers know about it. But do so politely and as a local group, using an appropriate business letterhead.
When 500 members of a church in Duluth, Minnesota, or Auckland, New Zealand, write to notify a sponsoring manufacturer that members of their churches have agreed not to purchase his product as long as he sponsors an offensive show, the manufacturer will pay attention. He knows that if the group is unhappy, there are probably other groups as well that won't buy his product.
This means we will need to pay attention to commercials aired during a show and write down the sponsors' names. Then we'll have to research to learn the address of the corporate office and the CEO. With Internet access, such a search can take only a few minutes. Some sites have special links for offering feedback. Make use of these, but don't overlook the effectiveness of a personal letter addressed to the top executive.

An Egyptian family watching TV  along with their camel (Photo: SAT-7)

Once you've located the information, keep it handy so you can refer to it each time you want to make contact. Then share that contact information with others who might take action.If you can't find the information on the Internet, call your local public library. A Reference Department librarian may look up the information you need. Or go to the library and ask for the appropriate reference books. You'll find addresses and chief officers listed.
Most important, we'll need to take the time to pray about how to write in such a way that our message will be received.
3. Unite your efforts locally. We tend to think that a national campaign will be most effective. Often it works just the reverse. When Americans protested against the movie, "The Last Temptation of Christ," they created massive media attention across the entire country. Many in the movie and television industry believe that the movie would have flopped and quietly disappeared without those well publicized protests. They may be correct. We don't want to crea te free advertising for a show; instead, we want to get the attention of the advertisers and producers.
4. Affirm those who broadcast things you want kept on the air. Protests are not enough. If you do like a show, let the sponsoring manufacturers and the television station know you like it, and why. Most letters and phone calls they receive from television viewers are negative. When a sponsor receives positive feedback he's naturally going to pay attention. The rule of thumb: producers and advertisers calculate that each letter represents several hundreds of viewers. The same is true of producers and network executives. Let them know which shows you like and why. Be specific.
5. Pray. Perhaps our most effective tool of influence is our least applied. Perhaps we are praying against those shows we disapprove. Are we praying for those that have positive qualities? There are hundreds, perhaps thousands, of Christians in the television industry trying to improve the selection and quality of programs that reach our homes. W e can pray for them. They may not be able to keep all offensive content off the air. Yet when an actress suggests to her director that alternate words would better communicate the story line, and therefore offensive words are not broadcast, she has been effective. When a script writer gets his wholesome story accepted by a popular show's producer, he will influence thousands of lives.
We will not reform the television industry easily. It won't be accomplished this year. You and I can adopt a producer, an actor, or a writer-not necessarily a Christian. And we can pray regularly for him or her.
Prayer groups, Sunday School classes, even youth groups, can adopt a certain show. We can learn about the show, about the people behind the camera as well as in front. We can pray for God's Spirit to draw them unto Himself; we can pray for Christians to be hired to live godly lives inside the industry; we can pray for God's conviction to constrain the decision makers; and we can pray for Christian viewers to do the responsible thi ng-whether it's to change the channel or to send a letter to the sponsor or network CEO.
We can make a difference!

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Bev Caruso, and her husband Pete, have served the Lord together for over 50 years. They pastored two churches for a total of 35 years. From those churches they sent over 100 individuals into fulltime Christian service. They have preached or taught in 35 countries: in schools and colleges, barrios and offices, prisons and jungles. Whether encouraging weary pastors or missionaries or praying for the sick, speaking through an interpreter or teasing with their grandchildren, their love for God and His people shines through. Bev's many books include Tools for Improving Relationships; Developing Godly Character in Children, now in its sixth edition; Getting Your Writing Into Print and Getting It Read; and Loving Confrontation. They recently coauthored: Keeping It Fresh-A Love that Keeps on Growing based on the Marriage Enrichment Seminars they team-teach. The Carusos continue to teach and preach. They also are directors of a hospitality center for traveling missionaries and ministers in Southern California. They have three grown child ren, eight grandchildren, and currently nine great-grandchildren. They can be contacted at: Caruso@across2u.com. Or visit their website: www.PeteandBevCaruso.com

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Slumdog Millionaire

Over the weekend, my husband and I watched the very moving Slumdog Millionaire. Well done, well acted. But what struck me most is how different countries are in how they treat their people. How children roam trash heaps hoping for a scrap. It hurts to watch adults take advantage of small children. I'm humbled by the millions of children around the world that battle for survival with no parent to protect them from exploiters.

I have the blessing of being raised in a real house. Even with a mentally ill mother and the background of divorced parents, my life was no where near as dire as the orphans in India, Viet Nam, Sudan, Kenya, or any number of countries including the abused and forgotten little ones here in the US.

If you haven't watched Slumdog Millionaire or been aware of the children in squalor around the world, take the time to be stunned by both a spectacular movie and by the scenes of reality.

I'm involved with Hope's Promise Orphan Ministry. That's one of many programs reaching out to help the poor, orphaned, and lost children in the world. What programs do you know about or support that help the children around the world?

Angie

Vietnam War Memorial

Pencil rubbing of my uncle's name

 One of my dreams was to visit the Vietnam Memorial and see my uncle's name. I didn't want to see stones polished for beauty. I wanted to honor his memory and recognize the sacrifice of those who died in service to our country. Uncle Paul was a radio man.

Paul Lee Bigelow died in Vietnam the first week he arrived in a huge Viet Cong sweep.

 Uncle Paul's name is found on panel 44E line 57. Both my brother and my son bear part of his name.

Vietnam Memorial

I was surprised by the sheer size and the emotion that seeing all those names sparked. I didn't think I'd cry. I really didn't. But I did. The magnitude of all those lives stunned me. Remembering my uncle, fondly, brought emotions I'd never expected. It's just a black shiny wall, right? 

Sculpture of service men at the Vietnam Memorial

But my uncle could have been a model for one of these men. He answered the call to duty. He deserves to be remembered with honor, love, and gratitude. Today is All Saints Day. One to remember those who have gone before. Thank you, Uncle Paul, for going before and out in front.

Also remembering my mom Eva,  cousin Dale Nelson, and grandparents Burt, Maybelle, Cleo, and Ralph today.

Do you miss someone?

How do you honor them and your grief today?

Montana Mondays: Law of the Land

Living in Montana means learning how to protect the land and animals from a young age. Okay, this little guy thinks it's play! Caring for the land is an innate Montanan value taught to our very young. People here are strong stewards of the beauty that surrounds us. You'll find entire communities pitching in to weed the Bob Marshall Wilderness, build playgrounds with green products, and protect/recycle all over Montana. People here are huge volunteers for community and family. In the city, people have the standard 1/4 acre lots. But a little ways out from our four main cities you'll still find large ranches, farms, and homesteads.

There are a lot of laws put in place to protect the land, wildlife, and forestry. One unusual law that surprises people is called Fence Out. Fence Out means that if you don't want other people's livestock, pets, vehicles on your land it's up to you to put up a fence. If your neighbor doesn't mind a wandering herd, then it's tough when all the cows surround your car and it's time to go to work! (Yep, that happens to my friend often!)

 -Helping Grandpa do yard work with Louie, the dog.

Then there's Free Range. That means that if your dog bothers someone else's cattle, they have the right to shoot. Ack! Do I understand it? Absolutely! I don't want a strange dog harassing our animals. It causes dangerous injuries. Ranchers can't lose a cow or horses for a badly behaved dog. It's their livelihood. But if your dog accidentally gets out, it can be very sad. Most folks will call and warn you first though.

Then there's my dog. sigh. He has proven that more than cats have nine lives according to our vet. (See photo above.) He's managed to get out and help a few vehicles park when they didn't expect to be stopping. He happens to be an Olympic fence leaper! He's taken on a coyote and a white tail buck. In his mind, they were intruding in his territory. Let's say it was 1-1 since the buck sent us to the puppy E.R. but the coyote never came back, at least not while Louie is on duty. Of course when someone's sheep end up in our pasture, well, Louie gets to herd them back home. That's if our horse, Chief, doesn't take them out first. (He hates sheep!) But loves his mini buddy, Spanky. Spanky should have been named Napoleon for his "little man's" attitude. He thinks he should get all the attention!

Are the laws in Montana different than in your area?

Do you agree or disagree with them? Why?

Angela Breidenbach
http://www.MyGemOfWisdom.com

Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference 2010

I've had the pleasure and benefit of attending the Colorado Christian Writers Conference run by Marlene Bagnull. It blessed my life in ways that are still unfolding. She has put together another one on the East coast and I urge you to attend! Here's the information:

hy should I come to GPCWC?

 

Most "advertising" is exaggerated, but the best part about what you've written is that it's all true.
GPCWC can have a great impact on your writing, but even more on your life.
I trust that God will use your words to encourage people to come. They won't be sorry!

Esther Lovejoy – 2009 conferee

Dear Writer -

Why should you come to this year’s conference?

If you’re a beginning writer, GPCWC will give you a solid foundation to build upon. It can save you both time and disappointments in your journey to publication.

If you’re an advanced writer, there’s always more to learn.

Whether you have never published or even submitted a manuscript to an editor or are publishing regularly, GPCWC is an opportunity to grow your writing and marketing skills through eight continuing sessions and 56 workshops. As one conferee said, “It’s the equivalent of a semester course in writing.”

If you’re working on a novel, GPCWC has a strong emphasis on fiction. See the article in July’s Christian Fiction Online Magazine at http://christianfictiononlinemagazine.com/home_publisher.html.

GPCWC will give you face-to-face opportunities to present your ideas or manuscripts to editors and agents or to authors who can provide needed encouragement and direction. Free one-on-one 15-minute appointments with our faculty are included with your registration. The more days you come, the more appointments you may request. And this year there are 70 faculty members to choose from!

Need hands-on help with your manuscript? Apply by July 15 for the Women’s Fiction Clinic with Susan Meissner, the Not Yet Published Novelists Clinic with Joyce Magnin, or the Nonfiction Books Clinic with David Fessenden, managing editor at CLC Publications. Or choose one or more faculty listed at www.writehisanswer.com/Philadelphia/2010_paid_critiques.htm to review a portion of your manuscript pre-conference and meet with you for 30 minutes during the conference. Manuscripts for paid critiques need to be postmarked by July 21.

Do you long for deep friendships with others who share your passion for words and the Lord? You’ll meet them at GPCWC.

Have rejection slips or writers’ block caused you to become discouraged? You’ll find answers and encouragement at GPCWC.

Do you need direction from the Lord and confirmation that you’re writing what He wants written? GPCWC is not just a writers’ conference; it’s also a retreat where those who are listening have heard from Him in ways that have changed their lives.

Are you running on empty spiritually? The worship and messages in our general sessions will fill you to overflowing.

And there’s still more, for in addition to being a high-quality professional conference, GPCWC seeks to be on the cutting edge of issues and world needs.

“Love is the Final Fight,” Dr. John M. Perkins will proclaim in his Thursday morning keynote. “Without love,” he says, “our words just sit on the page going nowhere, having no impact for God. With love, what we write, do, and say—what we live out—will make all the difference in the world.”

What about issues such as human trafficking, child slavery, world hunger? Do you long to be a voice for the voiceless? Thursday evening’s “Justice, Compassion & Advocacy Panel” will address how we can balance passion and objectivity and effectively communicate our concerns. You may want to attend this continuing session as well or get the CDs.

Do you carry a heavy burden for those who do not know Jesus? Friday morning Rusty Wright of the Amy Foundation will speak on “Effectively Communicating Christ to Secular Audiences.” And you won’t want to miss his Thursday afternoon workshop “Seekers and Skeptics at Your Door.”

Are you concerned about the eroding moral climate in our nation and increasing hostility toward Christianity? Rick Marschall’s Thursday afternoon workshop, “Writing His Answer,” is one you’ll want to attend as well as Dr. Rebecca Price Janney’s workshop on Friday afternoon, “Wise as Serpents.”  “We live in a culture that is greatly at odds with our Christian beliefs and world view,” Rebecca says. “How can we be ‘salt and light’ to a perishing society?”

Yes, GPCWC by God’s plan and design is much more than just a writers’ conference. I’m excited to see what He is going to do and  know that it will be “exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think” (Eph. 3:20 NKJV).

Serving Christ joyfully and expectantly -

P.S. The sooner you register the better opportunity you’ll have to get your top appointment picks. The price increases July 16. Scholarship help is available for those with financial need as well as time payments.

Marlene Bagnull, Litt.D., Director www.writehisanswer.com/Philadelphia

Write His Answer Ministries
951 Anders Road
Lansdale, PA 19446
Phone & fax:: 484-991-8581610-626-6833  

If you no longer want to receive emails from Write His Answer Ministries,
hit reply and type "Please Remove" in the subject line.

Modeling Volunteerism~Building Confident Kids

My daughter, Mariah, and I at the Hospice Ball

Volunteering instills confidence in our children. I required my daughter to volunteer once a week during her home school years. It was one of her graded classes. She had to interview for the position with the food bank director. Then she had to perform her duties and even received performance reviews.

When Mariah found out that I'd be volunteering for the Hospice Ball, she asked how she could also. I contacted them and the perfect spot opened up for her as a server with the caterer. Now since she loves serving and waitressing, Mariah was able to use her God given talents and interests to help raise funds for hospice her in Missoula.

Here's an important detail: Mariah knew no one. She asked, a door opened, and she filled the need with her own abilities. As a parent, I believe setting her up for success as an adult comes from getting the experience in childhood.

Why is that important? It's initiative she learned while volunteering way back in junior high. She had no reason to fear and every reason to believe in herself, confidence.

Do you think children should volunteer?

How does modeling volunteerism matter?

Angie Breidenbach

http://www.MyGemOfWisdom.com

Confidence has a No Need to Compete clause

Ms. Montana and Mrs. Montana work together at the Hospice Ball 

My friend, Janet Bierer, is Ms. Montana US Continental. I'm Mrs. Montana International. Different pageant systems and yet we aren't defensive or concerned about who does what. Instead, we enjoy running the race together and because of this, are more successful in our duties for our charities. We've built a friendship that benefits others.

We had the honor of assisting at the 1920's themed fund raiser for the Hospice Ball on Friday night. (Our job was to enforce the TSA regulations at the door to the Minuteman airport hanger and help people check in for the auction.) It's not unusual to see both of us at a fund raiser. What's wonderful about working with Janet is that neither of us feel competitive toward each other. Rather, we complement one another.

Janet is beautiful, funny, and successful in her professional life. She owns a couple of beauty salons here in Montana. But I don't feel jealousy, instead I am honored to be her friend.

Too often, women feel they must compete with the other women in their lives. We worry over someone else's beauty, talent, vivacious personality. We worry that we can't be as bubbly and witty or photogenic. We think the other woman always has it better. But when we enjoy the benefit of our unique personalities and talents, it's more productive. Okay, it's just plain fun!

When people try to figure out the difference in our titles, we laugh and explain it this way, "She's the unmarried and I'm the married version." We have a lot of fun explaining the different pageant systems, and trust me, no one knows more about them than Janet! The loveliest thing about Janet is she enjoys sharing her knowledge. She's a giving person full of heart.

Janet and I met last fall during the American Heart Association's Heart Walk. Since then, we've appeared at many special events together from managing hundreds of people coming in the doors to the Hospice Ball to selling raffle tickets at the Make-A-Dream event and helping the Jadyn Fred Foundation raise money to get kids to the out of state hospitals. It was Janet's idea to team up. And am I glad we did!

Together, we are able to do more than we could alone. Both of us have outgoing personalities so it's easy for us to sell raffle tickets or comically toss someone in the 1920's jail cell by convincing their loved one to pay $5 for their "arrest" by the Keystone Kops. We easily laugh and encourage the other one, and in doing so, we manage to successfully raise more money for the non-profits. We've also been able to help out when schedules clashed. Janet filled in for me when my charity had an event and I was out of town.

Do you have someone in your field that encourages you, runs the race with you, and complements the work you do?

How do you support each other's efforts and goals?

Angie

PS I'm also honored to be a guest today over at: www.seriouslywrite.blogspot.com

Please come visit as I share each Wednesday in March about self-care. This week's is 5 Things Writers Forget First.

Go Red For Women Luncheon 2010

The Go Red For Women Luncheon 2010 Volunteers

Photo by Laurie Lane Studio

You're invited to attend the American Heart Association's 

Go Red For Women Luncheon for women's heart health.

Feb.25th, 2010

11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Hilton Garden Inn Missoula 

3720 North Reserve Street 

Schedule for Thursday, February 25, 2010

10:30 a.m. Registration and Mimosa Bar Open: South Rotunda 

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Silent Auction: North Rotunda 

11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Sponsor Booths, Displays & Heath Information: South Rotunda 

11:30 a.m. – noon Breakout Sessions: 

      “The Heart Hormone Connection” – Cathryn Powell, Parlor A 

      “The Heart Soul Connection” – Angela Breidenbach, Parlor B 

      “The Heart Brain Connection” – James Ramsey, MA, M.Div., Parlor C 

12:30 p.m. Silent Auction Closes 

12:30 – 2 p.m. Luncheon: Ballroom 

      12:30 – 12:50 p.m. Welcome – Dr. Jonathan Weisul, Ric Mussiett and Amy Hetzler 

      1:50 – 1:10 p.m. Open Your Heart – Jill Valley, and Carolyn and Chriss Mack 

      1:15 – 1:45 p.m. Keynote Address: 
“The Healing Power of Laughter” – Diana Jordan 

1:45 p.m. Closing Remarks – Jill Valley 

2 p.m. Silent Auction checkout: South Rotunda 

Menu
MEDLEY OF SALADS: 
• Beet Salad with Feta, Balsamic Dressing and Candied Almonds 
• Citrus Chicken Salad with Dried Cranberries and Pears 
• Baby Greens, Roasted Roma Tomato and Cucumber Ribbons 
• Herbed Lemon Tabouleh with Baked Pita Chips
 
DESSERT:
Angel Food Cake with a Fresh Berry Coulis & Port Wine Glaze


Breakout Sessions 11:30-Noon

The Heart Hormone Connection
It’s Getting Hot in Here … Hormones and Heart Health
Parlor A 

There are certain numbers every woman should know and they’re well beyond just your shoe size! Learn how your body mass index, waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose and lipid panel may factor into decisions on hormone therapy. There are risks and benefits of hormone therapy. Learn also about the various options in hormone therapy such as herbal, synthetic and bio-identical preparations.

Bio: Cathryn Powell has 16 years experience in women’s health. She is a board certified family nurse practitioner who emphasizes education, health promotion and wellness. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Montana State University and her Master of Science in Nursing from Case Western Reserve University. 

The Heart Soul Connection
Digging For The Treasure
Parlor B 

We have some amazing tools right at our fingertips to use to dig for

healthy treasures — to use when we recognize the way things are,

evaluate and decide things that need to change. But inner pirates create a battle on the adventure to reclaiming health. 

New habits, behaviors and choices to change begin with watching and learning, and culminate in acting on the decision. What inner pirates are keeping you from a powerful life?

You are a gem! Come fill your treasure chest with me. 

Bio: Angela Breidenbach is Mrs. Montana International 2009. A speaker and author, she is certified in mentor/peer counseling as a Stephen Minister and assisting minister. In addition, Angela is a confidence coach and teaches workshops and online classes in personal growth and powerful living. She works with the American Heart Association, the Jadyn Fred Foundation and Hope’s Promise Orphan Ministries, and draws awareness to Fair Trade practices.  

The Heart Brain Connection
Parlor C

Total heart health is more than just eating well and exercising. Your

relationships to others are also important. Our hearts are affected by

our emotions and our emotions are affected by our relationships. Learn how to become more aware and skillful in your relationships to provide a broader concept of heart health. 

Bio: James W. Ramsey is a licensed marriage and family counselor and a certified domestic mediator with more than 34 years experience. He has master’s degrees in clinical psychology and theology. He has received specialized training from John Gray

and was part of his “Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus” therapy team. James also is certified with the Gottman Institute Inc. and is currently the only certified Gottman therapist in Montana.

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Ms. & Mrs. Corporate America Pageant Opportunity

I like to share opportunities like this when they come to my attention. I can't compete this year, no more time in my schedule, but maybe you can!

If you need confidence, presentation skill, interview coaching--I'm available to help. For more information on my coaching, please see http://www.MyGemOfWisdom.com and now for the pageant information :-)

Angie 

The Ms./Mrs. Corporate America (MCA) Pageant cordially invites you to be apart of the royal court of elite women business professionals. The competition is not solely based on the premise of outward beauty. We are the only unique pageantry system that embraces the true essence of a woman as a dedicated humanitarian, business professional, and family provider. The MCA Pageant gives women a platform to voice their concerns, promote their cause, and express their viewpoint and accomplishments to the public-at-large.

The qualifications to participate in the pageant are listed below:

● Must be at least 20 years of age by March 1st competition year, and no older than 55 years of age.
● Ms. Competition - Single, divorced, or widowed.
● Mrs. Competition - Happily Married.
● Must be a U.S. citizen.
● Must hold a position in Corporate America or be self-employed.
● Substance Abuse: Applicant does not use or consume any illegal or controlled substances or abuse the use of alcohol or other dangerous substances.
● Applicant must be in good health physically and mentally and is able to perform the professional responsibilities if selected as the winner. 
● Applicant must have no past or present association with the adult entertainment or publishing industries.

The Honorable Judge Mablean from the televised show "Divorce Court" will be apart of the judging panel. Judge Mablean is a professional business woman that takes pride in her overall personal and professional image. She is a dedicated mother, community leader, and successful entrepreneur. The remaining judges will include a pageant queen, government official, local news anchor, and a professional athlete.

There will be $5,000 in cash + more prizes awarded to each winner. For a complete list of prize packages, visit www.MsCorporateAmerica.com. Click on the "Prize Packages" link. The pageant weekend will take place on March 19-20, 2010. Contestants will enjoy luxury accommodations at the Peabody Orlando Hotel. Contestants will participate in red carpet photo shoots, motivational workshops, an elegant evening "night out on the town" and many more surprise events! The public competition will take place on Saturday, March 20th at 7:30pm at the Linda Chapin Theatre (Located at the Orange County Convention Center) in Orlando, FL.

Ready to get started? Visit www.MsCorporateAmerica.com and click on the "Become a Contestant" link. Once your application is submitted, email your headshot to info@mscorporateamerica.com. The MCA Committee will review your application materials and respond to you within 5-7 business days.

Many doors have opened up for the current and previous titleholders. They have been on syndicated radio broadcasts, national TV shows, featured in local and national newspaper/magazine publications, and they have been called upon to speak at notable events, seminars, and workshops. To preview some of the appearances of the reigning winners, visit www.MsCorporateAmerica.com. Click on the 'Press Releases" link.

We look forward to your participation! We welcome you to be apart of the MCA family.  

Have a winning day,

Anissa King
Executive Director
Ms./Mrs. Corporate America Pageant
"Where Business Meets Beauty"
www.MsCorporateAmerica.com
407.256.4555 Office 

A Courageous Beauty Interview: Mrs. Alaska America 2009-Erika Bennett

Angie: What interested you in pageants?


Erika: When I was nine years old my mother was Mrs. Alaska-America 1980, that left a lasting impression on me.  She proceeded to become involved with the Miss Alaska scholarship pageant system for many years after that and also opened a talent agency in Alaska.  I saw the good that can come out of pageants and know they can be fun, so I entered a few teen pageants (didn’t win any). 

Angie: What is your platform?


Erika: I don’t have a specific platform per se, but I am interested in promoting fitness in the family and also am very involved in aviation advocacy in Alaska.


Angie: How do you build your platform and promote your work?


Erika: My interests are fueled by my passions.  I feel that the more active the family is, the healthier the nation becomes.  We need to teach our kids that exercise is a normal everyday part of life and can be really fun if you take the right approach.  I am interested in partnering with the YMCA and the National Park Service to help engage more families in outdoor activities and educate parents on how to integrate exercise (disguised as fun) into their daily routines. 

My passion for aviation stems from my career as a professional pilot.  I am on the board of directors of the Alaska Airmen’s Association, a non-profit aviation advocacy group that promotes, protects and educates about general aviation issues in Alaska (a state that relies heavily on air travel to access its lands).  www.alaskaairmen.org


Angie: Why did you decide to compete?


Erika: I competed for Mrs. Alaska-America three times.  I think the main reason I tried the first time was because of my mother.  Each time I had so much fun and really had a chance to focus on myself for a change that I ran again.  This year (2009) I competed mainly to help “force” me to get back into my pre-baby shape and allow myself some “me time” after having my daughter.


Angie: How do you handle stage fright?


Erika: I have been in front of large groups of people either for a theater production or pageant for nearly twenty years now and have not had a hard time doing it.  I think my mother had something to do with my being so confident on stage, as she encouraged me and helped coach me for monologues or recitals.


Angie: What personal fear did you have to overcome? 


Erika: My biggest fear was always not remembering a line on stage for a play or missing a dance step for a pageant.  But when I realized that the audience only knows when you’ve messed up when you show it, I quickly became good at improvising when I got tripped up.  I am a fanatic “rehearser” though, so I have a tendency to remember what I’m supposed to be doing rather than not.


Angie: What did you have to learn to compete?


Erika: Dancing in four-inch high heels was a bit of a challenge when I did my first Mrs. Alaska-America pageant, but I think that’s the case for everyone except professional dancers.


Angie: Please tell us about a goal, why it's been a goal, and what it means to you?


Erika: A goal of mine is to be less “wound up” about things when they go a different direction than I had planned.  It’s been a goal because I realize that when I learn to “go with the flow” things usually turn out the way I’d hoped anyway.  Being able to devote less energy towards stress and more to enjoying life means a happier everyday existence for me!


Angie: Who do you most want to emulate?


Erika: I really admire Barbara Washburn, wife of the late Bradford Washburn.  Barbara was a devoted mother of three and still managed to find time to travel and climb with her adventurous husband.


Angie: Do you have a mentor?


Erika: I don’t have a single person I could call my mentor, but rather a cadre of people who I can go to when I need advice or help.  My mother and father are at the top of the list.


Angie: How do you handle the feelings of disappointment?


Erika: Whenever I feel disappointed, I usually have little time to wallow in my feeling because of the busy life I seem to lead.  I have a loving, cheerful and happy little girl who always makes me smile and a supportive husband who can pull me out of a funk with just his smile.  I am a very fortunate lady.


Angie: What kind of an education do you have or are you pursuing? 


Erika: I hold a bachelors’ degree in journalism and public communication with a minor in anthropology.  I became a professional pilot about four years after obtaining my degree through self-study and private training.


Angie: Do you have other creative talents you pursue?


Erika: I am an avid outdoorswoman who likes to climb, ski and enjoy the wilderness with my husband and daughter.


Angie: Do you think it is important for a person to look their best?


Erika: I feel that when a person is directly representing something or is in a position to be a public role model, then that person should put the effort in to be well groomed and look as good as they can for whatever the occasion may be.  I also feel that anyone should be able to throw a pair of comfy sweats on, put their hair up in a ponytail and go out with no makeup and not be criticized for it either.


Angie: Would you share about your fashion favorites, flair, or a tip that makes you feel beautiful?


Erika:  My advice to feel beautiful is to stick with being yourself and don’t attempt to be someone you’re not – even if it seems as if the rest of the world is telling you differently.


Angie: What compliment do you receive most often?


Erika: Physically I am complimented on my eye color the most.  I inherited very blue eyes from my father.  Otherwise I get compliments on my ability to organize the most.


Angie: What are you most confident about?


Erika: I’m most confident about my ability to handle any situation, good or not so good, and to make the most correct decision at the time that I know of.


Angie: How did you earn that sense of confidence?


Erika: I have to have that kind of confidence as a professional pilot, because everyone on my airplane entrusts his or her life to me for the duration of the flight.  You earn confidence as a pilot through training and experience and then you can apply that confidence to the rest of your life.


Angie: What would you like to share with interview readers?


Erika: If you’d like to read more about my exploits as Mrs. Alaska-America 2009, go to www.mrsalaska09.blogspot.com.

Angie: What a fun and unique interview! Thank you so much for being with us today, Erika.

A Courageous Beauties Interview: Mrs. Ohio International 2009- Lindsey Gregg

Angie: I am honored to share my new friend, Lindsey Gregg, with you today. She's a very kind and sincere woman with an important cause. I pray her cause gains huge leaps forward and they are able to find a cure! Please enjoy learning more about Lindsey and her work :-)

Angie: How did you learn about this pageant?

Lindsey: I was approached by a former contestant who told me that she thought I would be a perfect fit for the International system because of my extensive work with the non-profit organization, DebRA of America and epidermolysis bullosa, a genetic disease involving the skin and mucus membranes.

Angie: What titles have you held?

Lindsey: Mrs. Ohio International 2009

Angie: What is your platform?

Lindsey: Epidermolysis Bullosa, Hard to Say, Easy to Learn About! (www.debra.org)

Angie: How did you build your platform and promote your work?

Lindsey: My family and I live our platform daily.  In 2003, our son was born with a disease we knew nothing about, or even how to pronounce.  Epidermolysis bullosa, or EB is a genetic disease that affects the soft tissue and mucus membranes causing blistering inside and outside the body.  There is no cure for EB except daily wound care and bandaging.  

My husband and I work daily to raise awareness about EB and to raise research dollars in hopes that a cure can be found for all EB children, including our son Maxx.  I am currently the spokesperson for the national research foundation, DebRA of America who offers support, dressing needs, medical advice to EB families.

Angie: Why did you decide to compete?

Lindsey: I decided to compete for my son Maxx and all others living with EB.

Angie: What keeps/kept you competing?

Lindsey: Knowing the fact that I get to talk to others about EB and raise awareness for this rare disease.

Angie: Was/is competition scary?

Lindsey: Competition is definitely a scary feeling, but I would have to say it is more of an invigorating feeling to be able to step outside your comfort zone for an evening and become focused, poised, and ready to do your absolute best!

Angie: What personal fears did you have to overcome? 

Lindsey: The interview process was a personal fear of mine.  I am a very outgoing person and find it easy to start a conversation with others, however it is extremely hard to sit down with a judge one-on-one for only five-minutes and get the key points across that you want to discuss.  

Angie: I so understand. Natural conversations are easy. Interviews aren't organic like a natural conversation. What did you have to learn to compete?

Lindsey: I don’t know if I had to necessarily learn anything, but I definitely had to stay focused on my reasons for competing.  Sure, I had to learn how to walk for different phases of on-stage competition, but in the end I needed to be sure that my reasons for being on that stage were the right ones.  Everything else just falls into place after that!

Angie: Tell us about what you were able to do with your title:

Lindsey: In the past year I have traveled to all parts of Ohio, and a half-dozen other states to raise awareness for EB and DebRA of America as Mrs. Ohio International.  My most memorable event was New York for the national fundraiser for DebRA of America.  I was able to meet Will Ferrill, Mats Wilander, and Roger Waters.  The event brings in close to a half of a million dollars for research and education for EB.

Angie: Please tell us about a dream, why it's been a goal, and what it means to you?

Lindsey: A dream of mine was to become a school teacher.  I am the first person in my family to graduate from college.  This was a goal of mine going into high school, and I achieved that and much more.  I have now been teaching for ten years, have a master’s degree and was awarded teacher of the year by my school district.  

Angie: What do you still want to achieve?

Lindsey: I would like to continue achieving successful fundraising for DebRA of America through my efforts with my family and son by my side.  To date, we have helped contribute over $25,000 to DebRA of America.

Angie: Do you believe you can achieve it?

Lindsey: I know that I can achieve this goal.  With my family by my side, anything is possible!

Angie: What tips would you give other women wanting to enter the pageant world?

Lindsey: Be yourself!  Stay focused on your reasons for competing!

Angie: Do you do a lot of public speaking?

Lindsey: Any chance I can get to raise awareness about EB, I will take it!  I would say on average, I speak to a group at least once a month about the importance of raising awareness and funds for EB.


Angie: Do you have other creative talents you pursue?

Lindsey: I enjoying sewing and teaching aerobics at the YMCA.

Angie: Is it important for a person to look their best?

Lindsey: I don’t know if it is “important”, but I know that when I look my best, I feel my best!


Angie: What do you hope you achieved with your titles long term?

Lindsey: I hope that ten years from now people will still be talking about this small town girl and her big ideas of fundraising and educational awareness for a devastating disease…and how it has paid off!

Angie: Will you compete again?

Lindsey: I hope that the opportunity presents itself again, I have had a blast!

Angie: Would you share about your fashion favorites, flair, or a tip that makes you feel beautiful?

Lindsey: I am addicted to jeans!  A great fitting pair of jeans is such an amazing feeling!  I can feel comfy with my flats and faded out jeans, or sexy with a pair of stilettos and low slung jeans!  It’s all in the style!


Angie: What compliment do you receive most often?

Lindsey: I would have to say my shoulders.  People are always telling me that my shoulders and arms look great!  It is my favorite body part to work-out!

Angie: Do you accept compliments well?

Lindsey: I do!  I love the fact that people can compliment others.  It reminds me that I need to pay it forward!

Angie: How does a woman accept a compliment gracefully?

Lindsey: A simple “thank you” and a great smile!

Angie: What are you most confident about?

Lindsey: Telling others how I feel, good and bad!

Angie: How did you earn that sense of confidence?

Lindsey: My mother…she once told me to be a leader and to disregard jelousy!  I still believe this today!

Angie: What would you like to share?

Lindsey: My family’s ultimate goal is to spread as much awareness as possible for this devastating disease.  There is no cure for EB, but we feel confident that spreading awareness and advocating for the research foundation is the key to finding a cure.  Epidermoysis Bullosa is hard to say, but it is very easy to learn about!

Angie: Please share your websites, blogs, and any other places readers can connect or learn more about you and your work:

Lindsey:
www.ebawareness.org
www.debra.org
www.mrsohiointernational2009.blogspot.com

Angie: Thank you, Lindsey, for interviewing with me. I'm deeply touched and hope the cure and better treatment options are found very soon!