Miss Garden Grove 2011

NEW BLOG!!!

2012-02-19T01:26:00.000-08:00

Follow me on my new blog! I am now Miss Southern California Regional 2012!

www.MissSoCal2012.blogspot.com

The Strawberry Festival

2011-06-01T15:38:00.001-07:00

If you want to see what went on at the Strawberry Festival, check out our Strawberry Festival page above! Click on the link!

Pageant Visit #7: Miss Tustin!

2011-03-05T23:17:00.000-08:00

Tonight was a very exciting pageant to watch because my big sister, Chasta Nechvatal was competing for Miss Tustin. She was Miss Anaheim in 2007, the same year I was Anaheim's Teen. We grew so close and she has always been in my life every since. Unfortunately, she was not picked to be Miss Tustin this year, but she was lucky enough to be on the court! She got awarded 2nd runner-up! Of course many people were thinking and hoping she would win, but I'm still so proud of you, Cha Cha! :) The new Miss Tustin is Courtney Trouten. Congratulations, Courtney! It will be fun to be with you in Fresno! It was a tough competition, but it turned out great!

Before the pageant, I went to dinner with some of the most important women in my life. My mom, Stacy Margolin, Jennifer Gallo, Sherry Cain, Sherry Blades, and I met up at CPK in Tustin. It was so much fun! Some old friends Heather French and Carrie Carter were there as well. Carrie brought her little Natalie along and she was so cute. She told Natalie that she was going to meet a real princess at dinner and then a whole bunch more at the pageant and she was so excited. I didn't wear my crown in the restaurant, but I told Natalie that my crown was in the car and that she would see me with it on later. :) And that's exactly what happened! I saw Natalie during intermission and she was so intrigued and fixed on my crown. I loved it...she was so excited... love you, Natalie!

Natalie and I....she is so cute!

The SoCal girls!

Stacy and I

With Momma Sherry at the after party...

After the pageant, we went to the after party at the "On The Border" Restaurant to celebrate with Chasta! We had so much fun! Chasta be competing for one of the open titles in San Diego next week, along with a former Miss GG (Cori Coleman) and GG Teen (Bree Morse). I'll be rooting for them all, especially my big sis, Chasta!

GG Friday Night Lights: Opening Ceremony

2011-03-04T22:12:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy past couple months in the world of sports! First was the start WGG Softball League, then the WGG Little League, and finally a new member of the family, Friday Night Lights! This group is equivalent to the other little leagues, except the kids play flag football! How cute is that! After singing the national anthem at the Softball and Baseball opening ceremonies, I was invited to sing at the Friday Night Lights opening ceremony. I'm on high demand!

It is always to nice to see the community come together, especially kids learning good values like teamwork and self-confidence. They're spending time playing on the fields and NOT vandalizing the fields if you catch my drift. Mayor Bill Dalton was there as well. It is always an honor to be involved in events with him. It was a great time tonight!

and you're never going to believe this, but I FORGOT MY CAMERA! I know, it's so not like me! All I have is the news report from Channel 3. Thanks Channel 3!

LA Makeup Show with Sonoma Tanning

2011-02-26T23:42:00.000-08:00

So after the little league parade, I got in my car and rushed up to LA. Today was also the LA Makeup Show at the Fashion Institute in Downtown. This was my first official time driving myself to Downtown and I made it in perfect time! I wasn't going here only for the fun, I was there to model for Sonoma Tanning. I modeled for them in Las Vegas at the Miss America tradeshow and I guess Kelly really liked me so she wanted me back in LA. I didn't find out until today that Jackie Geist, Miss California 2008, was going to be there! How exciting to hang out with her for 4 hours! And Katie Enea was there to help with our booth too. She's the Miss San Diego Director and she was also one of my Miss Garden Grove judges, so it was a nice reunion!

With Jackie Geist

The Sonoma crew!

Well, what a day so far! I stood around in a swimsuit and heels for about 4 hours with five coats of bronze spray tanning product on my skin. There were so many different people of all shapes and sizes with pretty much every makeup design you can think of. It was definitely a new thing for me to see. Being a girl and playing dress-up is fun!

And by the way, just to give a little commercial... Sonoma Tanning is a wonderful spray tan service and the product they use is so natural and it feels so good. I definitely did not walk away looking like a shiny orange and I had five coats on! Sonoma Tanning spray tans all the contestants (if they want it) at Miss CA and for a lot of other contestants involved with the Miss America Org. What's even better about it is that you can do it yourself! You can buy the spray machine or you can buy the natural tanning lotions and mists. It's very convenient if you're not into the UV Tanning.

Sonoma Tanning Website

Thank you again, Kelly for asking me to be your model! I am so glad that I could be there to help you!

GG Little League Opening Ceremony and Parade!

2011-02-26T18:41:00.000-08:00

The weather forecast was supposed be rainy all weekend and West GG was worried that once again the parade would get rained out! They would've had to cancel it for the second time in a row because last year it rained too! Everyone was told that if the event was canceled that they would get a phone call at 6AM. I woke up at five minutes 'til and I didn't get that unwanted phone call! The parade was on! In fact, not only was the weather beautiful, it was like West GG was in a pocket of sunshine. There were dark clouds surrounding us but not covering us. God was being nice today! This year was very special in particular because I finally got to be in the parade as Miss GG! For the past 3 or so years, I have always been in the parade as a court princess (not that there's anything wrong with that). But I was definitely more excited sit with Jessica in a parade!

My view from the stage...they're all so cute in their uniforms!

This is the first year since I've been in the parade that I was not in the parade with my little brother, Sam. He grew up as a little leaguer and we were always in the parade together. Since he's a freshman at Pacifica this year, he's too old for little league. :( But it's okay, because at least we still had a parade this year! Also, another exciting thing is that we have a new addition to the Miss GG court! Since Veronica Williams won Miss Desert Valley earlier that week, she was no longer able to be on our court. The girl next in line was Missy Mendoza and we were so happy to have her with us at the parade! And she gets to hang out with us during the Strawberry Festival too!

The new court with Missy on the far right!

Well, the parade started at 8AM and it was so much fun! We didn't all sit with each other, but I was glad that Jessica and I sat in a car together. The parade starts at Edgar Park, which is where I went to preschool, then it ends at Bell Intermediate, my Jr. High! When we arrived at Bell, we all walked over to the stage to get ready for the opening ceremony. Once the parade was over and the teams and parents found their spots in the audience, more of the fun began! I sang the National Anthem and gave a little speech to the kids. Mayor Bill Dalton spoke as well. I know he loves the kids and that he supports the little league. Otherwise, he wouldn't be there, especially so early in the morning! It was a great ceremony and I know the kids were ready to play ball!

With former mayor, Bruce Broadwater and current Mayor Bill Dalton... and on the right, I'm singing :)

To see more pics, click on this link: more WGGLL pics

It was an amazing morning, but my day was just getting started! Read the next two posts to see what else I did that day!

Another Trip to CHOC Hospital

2011-02-22T22:14:00.000-08:00

Miss Garden Grove was once again asked to visit the kids at CHOC Hospital, and Jessica was able to come too! After class, I got in my harp-loaded van and drove to CHOC. Jessica and I met in the parking structure then met up with our favorite chaperone, Patti! In addition to playing the harp for the kids again, we got a tour of the hospital from Breanna Weeks. Breanna is the program manager for the Children's Miracle Network hospitals. We are lucky enough to have her on hand at CHOC!

With Breanna Weeks and our lovely chaperone, Patti!

Jessica, Patti, and I learned a lot about this wonderful hospital. First of all, if you're not aware, CHOC is undergoing a major renovation worth $563 million dollars. One of the towers beung builr should be open for patients by early 2013. It is a major project, but it will bless so many children and their families. Breanna toured us through most floors of the hospital. She took us to the newborn baby area; we could not go inside, but Jessica and I were able to look into a window where we saw a sweet newborn. The mother was there standing by her child laying in her special bed. It was a bittersweet sight. Next, we were taken to the teenager's hang-out room. The have to make sure the hospital is a cool place to hang out. I learned that it is important that such area exists for the teenagers because there, they can still act like any other teenager. There is more understanding and compassion for teens at Children's Hospitals than at general hospitals.

Breanna took us to the newborn wing where a lot of the children were born premature. We could not actually go inside but we were able to look through one of the windows and watch a mom stroke her sweet little one in his medical carrier. It was a beautiful sight.

Unfortunately, since Jessica is still a minor, she was not able to go into the playrooms to visit the kids, so she had to leave. But Patti and I stayed and we visited with the sweet little kids. I brought in my big harp into the play room. They were so excited again to hear me play. I started playing Disney tunes and they were so entranced. It is interesting to see how different days have different experiences. The first time I played for the kids here, they were very into the music, but today it seemed like they were happy playing air hockey and with their Playdoh. I sweetly left and told them I'll see them soon.

Again, I am so grateful that I have the chance to play the harp for the kids at CHOC. Those kids are so inspirational and it has been an honor to meet all of them. I pray that they all get well soon!

Pageant Visit #5: Miss Placentia/Yorba Linda

2011-02-19T22:52:00.000-08:00

It was time again to see another pageant! This time it was the Miss Yorba Linda and Miss Placentia Pageants. The theme was "Ever, Ever After" and it was so cute! It was exciting to see some old friends competing tonight, especially Jordan Krinke. She and I competed in the Miss CA teen pageant in 2007, and she won the teen title that year! And I got 2nd Runner-up to her, so we were on court together! We go way back :) It was even more exciting to see her win Miss Yorba Linda! And the new Miss Placentia is Whitney Thomas!

Here's a picture of the Miss CA Teen 2007 court and Jordan at the gala.... we all looked like Disney princesses!

The picture on the right is Jordan and I in our interview suits...way back when they had us wear suits!

Because Stacy was an auditor that night, I had no chaperone. But I was able to bring my Momma Sherry Cain to the pageant as my chaperone. She brought her beautiful granddaughters Tamera and Denae. We made it a fun girls night! Before the pageant, we all went to dinner. We tried getting into our favorite Mexican restaurant in Placentia, but it was too crowded. Instead made our stop to our favorite place, In-N-Out! After the pageant, we all got some ice-cream at Baskin Robbins...ya we like food!

Tamera and Denae...love you girls!

It was so much fun to catch up with my momma sherry....love you Sherry!

Special Person's Day

2011-02-18T16:57:00.001-08:00

Today was Special Person's Day at Barker Elementary. I went to this school as well and when I was there, I was able to bring a Special Person to school every year. Never did I think that I would be someone else's special person! Today I was Sadie's Special Person and it was an amazing day. I have actually been Sadie's sister's special person for two years in a row, but this time it was Sadie's turn. I have babysat these two girls since they were born and I have grown to love them as my little sisters. I'd be willing to adopt them anytime, actually! :) Since I was Sadie's guest, her sister Hannah was left to find a new special person. Who'd she pick? My mom, of course. It was nice to partner with my mom as special people at Barker! I was so excited to go to Special Person's day, especially because this time I was invited as Miss Garden Grove. Sadie is SOOOOO thrilled that she is friends with Miss Garden Grove and that her special person this year is a celebrity!

I was to report to the Multipurpose Room to attend the opening ceremony where certain students read essays they wrote about their special person. As I sat down, I noticed that Sadie was standing on stage amongst other essay readers. I had no idea that Sadie had won the essay contest for her grade. This meant that she was going to read an essay about me. Her essay was so touching and I felt so lucky to be her guest! You can hear it here:

After the opening ceremony, everyone rushed to other classrooms to see their special people. Sadie and I met outside in the quad and we gave each other BIG hugs! We took a few pictures and I gave her a little gift bag with some goodies. My mom left to go meet with Hannah and Sadie and I were off to her classroom. On the way to her room, I asked her who her teacher is and she said, "Mrs. Radosevich!" Now, if you're reading this and you didn't go to Barker with me, you won't understand the excitement I felt when Sadie told me the news! I was so excited to see her after all these years. I didn't have her as a teacher, but we knew each other well. She had my brother, Ryan though. What a nice reunion!

When we got to the classroom, Sadie had a lot of activities set up for us to do. She first gave me a little tour of her room and I was impressed with the great work she's done! Then, we were given a blank map of the USA and had to name as many states as possible. She should be on "Are You Smarter Than A 5th Grader?" because she got a few that I couldn't remember. She's a smart one! We then had to name a state that we would both love to visit someday. See what we chose....so cute!

Sadie, I know I'm your special person, but I want you to know that you are my special person too. I love you, Sadie!

Sadie opened her gift bag full of goodies, and I gave her a little something extra. I gave her a signed autograph sheet with my picture on it. Stacy got a whole bunch of them printed for me :) I know Sadie will keep that forever! We hung around in the classroom until the bell rang. We got some yummy cookies and punch and we had so much fun! After the bell rang, we met up with Hannah and my mom in the pouring rain. Hannah's teacher this year is Mrs. Linda Brown and she was my first grade teacher too! My mom said that Mrs. Brown wanted to see me, so we walked over to her classroom. Mrs. Brown was so proud to see me as Miss Garden Grove. We had a sweet reunion! I will never forget you, Mrs. Brown! What a great day! Sadie got to parade Miss Garden Grove around! I think her friends were jealous. We made each other feel special today and I'll never forget it! We all decided to go to lunch and Taco Bell was the best choice!

Mrs. Brown and I

With the girls at Taco Bell!

YUMMY!!!

This is Hannah...love her

This is my mom and Hannah, they were partners for the day. Can you tell they like each other?

Acacia Day Care Center Chamber Mixer

2011-02-16T22:11:00.000-08:00

It was the time of the month for another Chamber Mixer! This time, the Garden Grove Chamber of Commerce held their mixer at the Acacia Day Care Center. The theme of this mixer was President's Day, which makes sense since that holiday is coming up this Monday. Since Acacia is a senior's care center, they wanted to have us remember how much our former presidents and current legislatures cared for the senior citizens in our communities. Here are some examples below:

Mallory Vega, the Executive Director of Acacia, gave a sweet speech about the services that Acacia gives and how we should celebrate and remember the work that our country's leaders did for senior citizens. Acacia really is a special place and I know they help the seniors of our community feel loved. It was really interesting to walk around the room and see what our leaders have done. We also had a little fun seeing the favorite foods of our presidents and local legislatures as well. I found out that Congressman Ed Royce's favorite food is spring rolls! He's got good taste!

I got to sit with Patti and Marsha Stamper, who just married David "the Grizz" Stamper a year ago! They are so cute together! I see Marsha and David at all the Elk's Lodge events :)

This is Sandy Thomas....she is so much fun to be around, we have had some funny moments! Sandy is the Chairperson of the Board for the Chamber of Commerce...love her!

After the mixer, I went across the street to meet up with Stacy...she wanted to show me my portrait that is hanging in the city hall! I guess I am special! haha

Pageant Visit #4: Miss Covina!

2011-02-14T00:04:00.000-08:00

This was the fourth pageant we've gone to so far and it was extra special because Stacy was one of the judges! We've only been to four but there are a lot more comin'! Last night was the Miss Covina pageant and it was fun to watch, as always. Because Stacy was a judge, neither Jessica or I had an official chaperone, so this time we got to bring our moms. :) It was a fun girls' night out!

After the show, we all went to IN-N-OUT! We were all starving and Jessica and I were talking about how much we wanted a hamburger. I, quite frankly, wanted a Double-Double really bad...yes, I ate the whole thing. If you know me, that shouldn't be a surprise!

It was another great night, being the queens of Garden Grove. The new Miss Covina is Vivian Wei and the new teen is Joelle Roup! CONGRATS!!! The next pageant is Miss Placentia, so we'll see who the lucky girl is next week!

Megan and I....we were the blue blondes of the night :)

we were all dressed with color coordination again!

Jessica and I actually planned it this time :)

Sherry Blades and I (she was another judge for the night)....we go way back, back to the Miss Anaheim OT days

love you Sherry!

I texted Stacy as the show ended to see if she wanted to go out for food and I told her what I wanted. She wrote it down to show Sherry...haha, typical me

Ya Sherry wanted my crown on inside... it was all good.

PS- that guy was in my HCOM class at CSUF and he was surprised to see me all "prettied" up because I would normally come to school looking the complete opposite I do in this picture...haha

Stacy and Sherry

My mom and I with our hamburgers, mine is a Double-Double, of course

Pageant Visit #3: Miss Fullerton!

2011-02-05T23:47:00.000-08:00

And the new Miss Fullerton 2011 is....CARLY VALDES! Jessica, Stacy and I called it! She really was fantastic and totally deserved it! We were also SO excited to hear the name of the new Miss Fullerton's OT 2011, ALLY ALEX! Ally is very close to the Miss Garden Grove Org. because she has competed in the teen pageant for a while and has always been on court so we were proud of Ally for winning a title! Another former GG contestant, Tiffany Lewis, competed for the Fullerton teen title too and she did so well! She was so beautiful in her evening gown and we loved her talent. We're so proud of you too, Tiffany!

an old picture with Tiffany. :)

After the Rotary Club Dinner I went to Fullerton to see the Miss Fullerton Pageant. Stacy, Jessica, and I were in the third row and had a great view! As usual, it was fun to visit a local pageant. There are going to be some great girls competing in Fresno this year!

we matched and we didn't plan it, I promise!

With the lovely and amazing Miss CA, Arianna Afsar

This is the new Miss Ventura County 2011, Megan Wisler. Come to find out, we competed together in the CA Teen 2008 pageant! It was a nice reunion! :)

GG Rotary Club Sweetheart Dinner

2011-02-05T23:14:00.000-08:00

It's that season again, the season of L-O-V-E! The Garden Grove Rotary Club had their Sweetheart Dinner again. This is the third year in a row that I have attended this lovely dinner. As usual I played background music just to enhance the romantic and elegant ambiance...only this time, I'm finally Miss Garden Grove! If you know me well, you know how much I love the GG Rotary Club. The members of this district are very close to my heart. This rotary club and I go way back. I received my first scholarship in 6th grade and it was a $100 award from the GG Rotary Club. They started my savings account! Ever since then, they have been very dear and significant in my life. The GG Rotary Club was my sponsor last year when I competed for the GG title.

Bill Annan, president, and I

I was honored once again to be at this dinner. Since this was a Sweetheart Dinner, I was able to bring my sweetheart, Keith. I think the Rotary Club likes Keith too. Because I planned to attend the Miss Fullerton Pageant later that night, I was only able to stay in time to play for about an hour. I didn't get to stay the whole time, but I am glad I got to be there for a little bit.

Talking with Bill Annan (President) and Don Alexander (VP)

They were so nice...they gave me a beautiful bouquet. And just a side note, you're probably wondering why Errol looks so tall (he's really not)....he was standing on a chair just so he can be taller than me for that second...haha

my sweetheart and I

I will forever be grateful to the GG Rotary Club for supporting me throughout these past few years. 'Til next time!

Republican Women's Federation Luncheon

2011-02-05T14:44:00.000-08:00

After singing the National Anthem at the ball fields, I drove to Spires Restaurant in Garden Grove. The GG Division of the Republican Women's Federation was holding a meeting there. The National Federation of Republican Women is one of the largest and most influential women's political organizations in the country. This organization works to promote the principles, objectives and policies of the Republican Party, elect Republican candidates, inform the public through political education and activity, and increase the effectiveness of women in the cause of good government.

www.NFRW.org

Stacy and I were the guest speakers. I felt honored to be there because I am a Republican woman myself. I definitely felt welcome there! Stacy talked about all the wonderful things she is doing for the city of Garden Grove, including the Miss Garden Grove Org. I am still amazed to hear how many things Stacy does. I am so lucky to have her as my director/chaperone. After Stacy spoke, it was my turn. I spoke to the women about my experience as Miss GG so far and I was able to share with them my passion for my platform, "Compassion for the Convalescing". I have had so many wonderful experiences that have enhanced my love for my platform. I've played at Senior centers, Retirement Villages like I did last Friday, and of course at CHOC Hospital. After speaking to the lovely ladies, I played a couple of songs for them.

with the president, Carol Litle

The guest speakers!

I jumped on the bandwagon and sent a postcard to President Obama. We all wrote our opinions about his Healthcare bill. Hopefully some practical changes will be made. :)

I had to order my favorite..... the Bacon Cheeseburger!

I was asked to pass out my business card a lot too. I might get a few gigs! Again, I was so honored to be able to speak with them. I met so many wonderful women and made some good acquaintances.

WGG Girl's Softball Opening Ceremony

2011-02-05T09:45:00.000-08:00

This morning was the opening ceremony for the West Garden Grove Girl's Softball season. I was invited to sing the National Anthem and it as a great experience. It was nice to be involved with the softball league of WGG because I have always been involved with the WGG Little League because of my little brother's involvement.

I met up with Elaine, who was the opening ceremony director. She is also in charge of the Summer Concert Series in the Park. She asked me to sing the National Anthem at the first concert in the park last year, and she wants me to do it again this year! It was nice to see her again!

Elaine and I

The color guards for this ceremony were the Young Marines from Seal Beach. It was such an honor to meet them and sing next to them as they held our country's flag. My heart always melts when I meet Marines because my boyfriend, Keith is a former Marine.

This was another great opportunity to sing the National Anthem and I'll be there singing the Anthem again at the WGG Little League opening ceremony. I'll see you there!

Service at Carmel Retirement Village

2011-02-04T20:56:00.000-08:00

I had an amazing day today. I played the harp for the residents at Carmel Village. For those of you who don't know, my platform "Compassion for the Convalescing" involves my talent as a harpist. I am able to enhance my platform as I play at senior and convalescent centers. I have also had the chance to play for the kids at CHOC Hospital. Today was very special because I played for a lot of wonderful people and I know they enjoyed it.

Don Alexander from the GG Journal and Rotary Club asked if I could play at Carmel Village. His mother and mother-in-law are living there and he wanted me to come and play for them. The center wanted me to play during the happy hour in the afternoon so I got to play for more people than expected. Don and his mother arrived and I was excited to see them both.

I gave everyone a little concert/recital of recognizable tunes and they even started to hum along during some of the songs. I could also see Don's mother swaying her head to each song I played. It warmed my heart to see her enjoying it. I only played for an hour, but it was all worth it. While I was playing, it was so quiet in the room, you could hear a pin drop. I even got a couple requests before I started to play, like tunes from Phantom of the Opera and "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"--that was their favorite.

Don's mother, is in the wheelchair...she is so sweet :)

After I was done, everyone was so happy and I could tell they loved hearing the music I played for them. Don was so happy that his mother could make it because he told me that she was happy as well. She had a huge smile on her face. Days like this remind me of why I really play the harp. I feel so blessed to be able to have a talent where I am able to make a living and do community service too. I truly feel that this is the mission that my Heavenly Father gave me, and I'm so glad I get to help people feel His presence as I play my music. I know I can help people in need feel comfort not only from my music, but from God as well.

Thank you Don for giving me this wonderful opportunity. I am humbled from this experience today.

With love from your Miss Garden Grove 2011,
Leah

Pageant Visit #2: Miss Ventura County

2011-01-29T23:04:00.000-08:00

It was time again for another Pageant Visit, and Jessica and I took a road trip to Ventura, CA! We had our chaperones/chauffeurs, Stacy and Lynette (Jess's mom), take us and we had a fun-filled day! We left around noon and arrived a couple hours later in sweet little downtown Ventura.

Jessica and I in front of the Theatre...

on the road!!! :)

We made a quick stop at the local Pageant dress store to see what we could find. We need dresses for the state pageant! Unfortunately, Jessica and I didn't find the dress to wear at the state pageant, but Jessica found the style she liked. We'll be continuing our dress hunt soon! After trying on a few dresses, we stopped for lunch at "The Habit" burger joint. After lunch, we walked through the small streets and window shopped.

Finally after a few fun hours of burning time, it was pageant time! I think it is fun to watch pageants especially when it involves the other young women you'll be competing with at Miss CA! It's more fun that way! Jessica and I got to see the new titleholders get crowned. Megan Wisler is the new Miss Ventura County and Olivia Sichmeller is the new Ventura's Outstanding Teen. It's so nice to see other girls go through the same kind of "crowning moment" that Jessica and I went through. We can totally relate!

During intermission I got to catch up with some old friends. I've known Carley Ryckman since 2007 when we competed for Miss CA's Teen and we had a blast up there. It was so fun to see her as the former Miss Santa Barbara last night!

With Carley, Katie Barnum (Miss City of Orange), and Rachel Berry (Miss Orange County)

I also talked with one of my long-time idols, Jacquelynne Fontaine. She was Miss CA 2006 and I first met her when I competed in the CA Teen pageant. She is a phenomenal opera singer and I feel so privileged to know her personally. Jackie, you have been a great example to me, especially as a performer. Thank you!

There will be a lot more pageant visits coming up in the next few months! Can't wait!

Christmas Party at Acacia Day Care Center

2010-12-22T20:56:00.000-08:00

Farmers & Merchants Christmas Chamber Mixer

2010-12-15T22:00:00.000-08:00

Elk's Lodge Christmas Party!

2010-12-12T14:00:00.000-08:00

Rotary Club Christmas Dinner

2010-12-11T22:00:00.000-08:00

2nd Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

2010-12-07T22:00:00.000-08:00

Winterfest!

2010-12-04T12:26:00.000-08:00

CALEA Gala

2010-11-20T20:38:00.000-08:00

Miss GG at CHOC Hospital

2010-11-19T20:38:00.000-08:00

CHOC Hospital + wonderful kids + Disney songs on the harp + Miss Garden Grove = a perfect day.

I had the most perfect day today. I was asked to play for some of the kids as Miss GG at CHOC Hospital and I had so much fun! I visited three different playrooms in the hospital. In each playroom, I played some Disney songs and had them guess which ones they were. I sang a couple songs from “The Little Mermaid” and the girls in the rooms loved that song. I got to know a lot of kids today! The first room I visited had five of them in there and they were already getting started on their craft for the day. I first got their attention with the harp cadenza from the Nutcracker’s Waltz of the Flowers.

Women's Division Luncheon

2010-11-18T20:38:00.000-08:00

Today was the Garden Grove Women’s Division Luncheon. The Women’s Division is an

I was honored to play background music on my harp for them as they ate their lunch. Stacy and I were the guest speakers for the day and we spoke about the Miss Garden Grove Program. After Stacy spoke about her experiences as the Executive Director, she had show off my harping skills with a fun song before I spoke. I was able to talk about my journey to become Miss GG, what is expected of me this year, etc. I spoke with them about my platform “Compassion for the Convalescing” and how important it is in my life. I was able to share with them the opportunity was going to have to play the harp for the kids at CHOC Hospital (that’s my next entry).

Being a part of events like this makes me thrilled to be Miss Garden Grove. I love playing music for people, especially when I get to play a variety of pieces as background music. And talking about the Miss GG Program is one of my favorite things to do because I love being a part of it so much.

Surprisingly, a member of the Women’s Division and a journalist on the side wrote an article about this event in the OC News! I am so honored. Thank you Denise!

Hyundai Chamber Mixer

2010-11-17T20:36:00.000-08:00

It was that time of the month again, time for another Chamber Mixer! This time, the Chamber brought their business to Garden Grove Hyundai. There was food, a raffle, and an awesome live band! It was a great turn out! The funny thing is that there wasn’t much parking space because, well you know, because it was at a car dealership, the cars for sale took up the parking lot. I had the honor to go to this Chamber Mixer to help sell raffle tickets and mingle around with people. I even got to meet Scott the Plumber from Scott Harrison Plumbing. I always look forward to the monthly Chamber Mixers!

I got to meet Scott the Plumber from Scott Harrison Plumbing! My parents have used his expertise before!

located on GG Blvd and Brookhurst....

CALEA Hospitality Night

2010-11-16T21:59:00.000-08:00

This week was CALEA's Fall Conference and Garden Grove was lucky enough to host this great event. CALEA (The Commission on Accreditation on Law Enforcement Agencies) is a credentialing authority for law enforcement agencies. The programs in CALEA are made to ensure that standards and initiatives within law enforcement are being upheld. This information is from the website:

Specifically, CALEA’s goals are to:

Strengthen crime prevention and control capabilities;
Formalize essential management procedures;
Establish fair and nondiscriminatory personnel practices;
Improve service delivery;
Solidify interagency cooperation and coordination; and
Increase community and staff confidence in the agency.

Watch this video for more info:

CALEA held its conference at the Hyatt Regency and a lot of fun events took place throughout the week! Tonight was a Hospitality Night, which is basically a fundraiser full of delicious food and fun prizes! This event was at Fandango's, which is the restaurant next-door to the Hyatt. Court Princesses Valerie and Ally were able to come and help with the festivities. We got to sell raffle tickets (as usual) but it was a lot of fun! Practically bought tickets, and a lot of them! There were a lot of fun prizes up for grabs, like restaurant gift cards, Coca-Cola products, trips, etc. And we have to talk about the food! It was delicious! The food was served buffet-style and the girls and I were able to indulge in foods from many local restaurants, including: Oggi's Pizza, Buca di Beppo, Red Robin, and some Mexican and Korean Restaurants. I met a lot of people tonight and I am glad I got to be there. And of course, this event is not official until I sell raffle tickets! :)

Me with the Teen Princesses: Valerie and Ally.... love them!

Stacy and I

Here, I am standing in front of a display for the new Great Wolf Lodge that it being built in Garden Grove. It will be located on Harbor, just south of Disneyland. This is a development that Garden Grove is proud to announce!

Follow these Links to get more info:

www.CALEA.org

www.calea.ggpd.org

Miss GG and KFI's Bill Handel Show

2010-11-07T08:42:00.000-08:00

For those of you who don't know, Bill Handel and his crew were at the Anaheim White House Restaurant last Friday morning to raise money for Bruno's community service. Just for some background info, Bruno Serato, the owner, has been feeding underprivileged motel kids in OC for the past 5 years. It's about time the public becomes aware of this great cause! He humbly and willingly feeds 150 kids, 6 nights a week..amazing! He says that is costs him about $2,000 a month and even though he was asked how he can manage to afford this, he responded with "How can I afford NOT to?" The Anaheim White House is known as "OC's Hidden Treasure", but I think Bruno is one of OC's hidden heroes. I have known Bruno for the past 4 years and I am so grateful for our friendship. I first met Bruno when I was Anaheim's Outstanding Teen in 2007; Chasta (Miss Anaheim) and I were participating in a charity event at the restaurant. I would go to a lot of events throughout that year and I grew to love Bruno. Even after my Anaheim title was over, I stayed well acquainted with Bruno and his restaurant. Bruno wanted me to be his restaurant harpist for weddings and other events there and I have been doing that ever since. I have known Bruno for this long and I only found out about his charity work about a year ago! That just shows how humble he is with his service.

Bruno's service has been featured in documentaries, People magazine, and is hopefully on it's way to Oprah's show! There is even a Facebook page called "Bruno on Oprah", just so we all can request Bruno on her show. I encourage all of you reading this to click on the link above, "Like" and then request Bruno!

In addition to the publicity listed above, the Bill Handel Show promoted Bruno's service as well. The Handel show set up their radio equipment in the West Wing of the restaurant and did their broadcast live! This was a fundraiser as well as a pasta drive. Since pasta is what Bruno serves the kids, Handel was asking people to come and donate some dry pasta and even some sauces. They were also asking for donations, even donations to match Bill Handel's of $5,000! Several people ended up matching Handel's donation! The Bill Handel Show raised over $72,000 that morning, and they're accepting more!

I had a great experience at this event. I decided to go so I could donate some pasta and support my good friend Bruno and his restaurant. I also listen to the show EVERY morning as I commute to CSUF, so I wanted to meet the faces of the voices I listen to! I wasn't there as Miss GG- I was just Leah. But I was able to meet Bill Handel and his crew and tell them that I was Miss GG. The set up was so nice! There was an area for dry pasta donations and for monetary donations as well.

First, I met Todd Wilson outside who is one of the co-hosts and he is SO funny. Poor guy, he's the main target for mockery...hahaha but he's always got some good comebacks. Then I walked up to the front table with the hosts and I got to meet them all.

One of my favorite guys is Rich Marotta. His laugh is hilarious and once he starts laughing at whatever Hoffman or Handel are doing, I start laughing because I love it! When I met Rich, I told him that hearing his laugh is my favorite part of the morning. :) He was glad because he said that he got a couple letters telling him that his laugh is annoying, but I told him that they are stupid...haha

Then I got to meet the brilliant and witty Bill Handel. He was so friendly (even though he may not seem that way on the air)! We talked for a bit and I got to tell him that I am Miss GG and he was excited. He wanted to know everything about me and because he was a lawyer previous to radio, I told him that my boyfriend goes to law school and he had some nice things to say...other than that he has no career chance as a lawyer...haha

I finally got to the meet the Hoffman! He is SO smart and I love listening to his show on the weekends. It was so cool to meet the faces of the voices that I listen to every morning. They are all so cool and friendly.

I stayed at the White House for about an hour and then I had to get on my way to work in Diamond Bar (I'm the harp instructor there). I wish I could have stayed the whole time, but I am glad that I got to be there for a while. Something else happened on top of all of this too. Bill Handel and his co-hosts talked about me on the air! I was in the car, almost to Diamond Bar when I heard Bill mention that Miss GG (when he actually called me Miss Gardena) was there and that she just left out the door. That was so cool! I was mentioned 3 different times on the air and I have the clip to prove it! Thanks for the compliments, guys! And Bill (or Michelle), if you're reading this, I would love to come on your show sometime! You could interview me about the Miss America Program and my platform, "Compassion for the Convalescing". That would be a blast! Just remember, I'm your only "blonde shiksa goddess of love" fan. :)

Here's the sound clip:

I am so glad that I decided to come to this event. I am amazed at the amount of community support Bruno has! It was a proud moment to hear that they raised over $72,000! I am so happy for Bruno; I know he appreciated everyone's love and support.

Children's Miracle Network at IHOP

2010-10-30T11:42:00.000-07:00

In addition to the fundraiser on National Pancake Day in February, IHOP hosted another fundraiser this month to raise money for the Children's Miracle Network. On Friday, they were giving out free scary face pancakes to kids! Also, 20% discounts were given out when people donated a dollar, or more.

I had the privilege to go to two IHOP locations in Garden Grove and Cypress. You're probably wondering what Miss GG and IHOP/Children's Miracle Network have to do with each other. The Children's Miracle Network is the main platform for the Miss America Organization and they have partnered up to raise funds and awareness for children’s hospitals throughout the United States. The local and state titleholders throughout the U.S. have been raising money for the Children's Miracle Network for several yearsl So, whenever a company/organization (like IHOP) partners with the Children's Miracle Network, the Miss America Org. comes in to help. As Miss GG, I was able to help pass out the spooky-faced pancakes to the kids and ask people for donations. I know other local titleholders participated with their local IHOPs as well.

My first stop to IHOP was in Garden Grove. Alex, the manager, was very excited to use my help. I got to pass out a few scary-faced pancakes to some kids there. Then, because there is no Miss Cypress, I was sent to help out at the Cypress location. Ruben, the manager, was very excited to see me as well! He had me walk around the restaurant with a cute donation box that he and his employees decorated. Everyone there was more than happy to donate to the Children's Miracle Network.

Alex and his hostess decorate a scary face pancake.

Alex, the manager, and I with the spooky pancake!

The pancake scared me, so I killed it....haha

Ruben, manager, and I at the Cypress IHOP

...asking for donations...

The cute donation box :)

Hopefully, I can return in February when IHOP partners with CMN and celebrate National Pancake Day!

GG Public Works Open House!

2010-10-23T22:50:00.000-07:00

Every time you drive down a smoothly paved road, flush your toilet, and see beautiful plants and trees on the streets, thank the Public Works Dept! If you didn't know already, the Public Works Department is responsible for the maintenance and construction of all facilities and equipment, including streets, sidewalks, parks, public buildings, street trees, flood control channels, and traffic signals. Additionally, the department is in charge of the City's water system and managing trash and recycling services. The Public Works Dept. does an amazing job at preserving GG's aesthetic value and functionality of the infrastructure! No wonder we celebrate their hard work every year!

GG Public Works Website

At the front entrance!

Today was the day to celebrate another year of great work from this department and also to become educated about what Public Works is all about, with a lot of fun and food of course! It was a great turn out despite the morning drizzles and cloud-cover. By lunchtime, the sun came out and more people started to come for the fun! There was an opening ceremony with a presentation of the flag given by the Boy Scouts and the National Anthem, sung by me. :) Keith Jones, the director of the GG Public Works, presided over this ceremony while Mayor Dalton, Andrew Do, and Bruce Broadwater spoke about their gratitude for our "unsung heroes". Jessica was able to say a few words as well, and she rocked that podium! :) The ceremony concluded with a ribbon-cutting; although, it was more like a "caution-tape-cutting", which seemed appropriate being that this was a Public Works event. After the Mayor and other dignitaries cut the ribbon, the house was officially open!

see why I call it the "caution-tape" ribbon? :)

singing the national anthem...

Jessica saying her little speech...

Jessica and I with Mayor Bill Dalton

As each attendee entered the event, they received a bag full of goodies and a "passport" to the raffle for prizes! This "passport" had slots for stamps and once they were all full, you could be put through a raffle! The stamps were found at the presentation booths around the festival and each booth represented a service that the PW provided. Stacy, Jessica, and I were able to get a passport of our own and get all the stamps! There were so many amazing prizes including gift cards worth hundreds of dollars for Target, restaurants, movie theaters, and Ducks games. The grand prize was a 16GB iPad! I was not a lucky winner, but someone else was!

Jessica won this game! lots of fun!

On top of participating in all the games and food, Jessica and I volunteered at the tattoo booth for a while. NO, they weren't real tattoos...they were the fun waterproof ones and the kids loved them! Jessica and I had lots of fun talking with the kids and giving them their favorite tattoo. Along with getting a tattoo, there was a coloring contest! The kids were able to color different pictures (representing the PW vehicles and services, of course!) and then they dropped their art in the contest to see who colored them the best. It was fun to watch them get into it!

my only job as a tattoo artist...the only kind I will ever get or do :)

he was a my favorite kid of the day...so cute!

she got the butterfly tattoo

Stacy was volunteering at the Soroptomist booth where they were selling home-baked goods and they sold a lot!

I could totally pass as a cop! haha

awwww.... so cute! Jessica read a story to one of the little girls.

I definitely learned a lot from this event and I will do what Mayor Dalton asked that all of us do, which was to thank and remember the Public Works guys when we notice how nice our city looks and functions! Be sure to come to this open house next year, it will educate you more and will make you more appreciative to all the men and women that work so hard to enhance our city.

Celebration of Life Singers Concert

2010-10-15T22:45:00.000-07:00

Tonight, Jessica and I were priviledged to attend and help with this event. The Celebration of Life Singers were performing at the Crystal Cathedral and they sang some beautiful and inspirational music. The coordinator for this event was conveniently Jessica's grandma! She was so excited to show off her granddaughter, as any grandma should be! The thing that is so special and unique about this choir is that the members are all cancer survivors and their support partners. Their mission is to bring members of the community who have triumphed over cancer together, to participate in a creative, uplifting, and fulfilling experience through the healing power of music. The Celebration of Life Singers perform throughout Southern California and Garden Grove was lucky enough to have them perform in our own beloved Crystal Cathedral. Another singing group called The Sonorous Singers was there and they were amazing!

Jessica and I with her Grandma Dawn

Jessica's grandma, Dawn Densberger, brought Jessica and I up to the stage and gave us a sweet introduction.

The Singers of Life Choir....

....and the Sonorous Singers

All of the music performed was religious, which was very appropriate for this occasion. Obviously, I am not one who can attest to the struggles and experiences of trying to overcome cancer, but I can attest to the power of God. Bad things happen to good people and when they happen, we gain a stronger faith and testimony in our Heavenly Father and Lord Jesus Christ. I know God was present that night and that we all could feel His love. The very last song was the grand finale and the one where we could feel God's love to the most. Before the concert began, Jessica and I were in charge of giving everyone a program and a little glow stick. The glow sticks were to saved until the last song. During the final song, everyone who knew someone with cancer, or had cancer themselves (which was everyone there) lit their glow stick and held it up. It was a beautiful sight.

we brought our own canned goods!

In addition to this concert, there was a canned food drive and almost everyone brought something to donate. I really appreciated this concert because I truly believe in the healing power of music. I was inspired by this choir and it's so wonderful to see such a group as this unite together to sing God's praises.

Life Singers Website

Patti and Myles were our chaperones for the night. Or should we say, "bodyguards"?? :)

We love you both!

Golden Spoon Celebration!

2010-10-12T21:15:00.000-07:00

It's official! Golden Spoon has been voted OC's Favorite Frozen Yogurt! Free 4 ounces of yogurt were being passed out to the public and a lot of people showed up! I was at the Cypress location and I got to see a lot of familiar faces!

Golden Spoon Celebration

I got a free cup of yogurt too and my favorite flavor there is Peanut Butter! Yum! Jeremy, the owner, told me his favorite flavor is Peanut Butter too! There was a huge line of people throughout the night; I don't blame them because I would wait in line for some free frozen yogurt! There were a lot of families there, including part of my own! My Aunt Jill showed up for a little while, and my boyfriend Keith came to take advantage of the free stuff too!

mmmmmMMMMmmmm! Peanut Butter flavor!

Jeremy, the owner of Cypress Golden Spoon

Keith, my body guard

Aunt Jill came for a visit too!

Me with the lovely salon ladies from next-door!

A lot of people wanted pictures and it was fun to take so many with the little kids! The salon ladies from next-door came over for a picture too. There were a couple of little boys waiting line and they were playing the "looking" game with me. They would look at me and then when I looked that them, they would freak out with laughter and run to the their mom. They were my entertainment of the evening!

This was definitely a different event because it outside of GG boundaries, but I am really glad I got to be there and greet the community as they got their free frozen yogurt!

Autumn Fest at Acacia Adult Day Care

2010-10-09T23:14:00.000-07:00

Today was the annual Autumn Fest, and this year it was held at the Acacia Adult Day Care. Many people from the community swarmed in to take part in this fun and festive event. This event is held every year in order to raise money to support the programs and services that Acacia offers to the participants and their family members. Polka musicians played away on their accordions and banjos while everyone enjoyed the beer and food, and the fun outdoor games. It was a successful day and there is no one else to thank but all of the volunteers who made it happen. Many people donated baskets of goodies for the silent auction and it was a big hit! In addition to the silent auction, Veronica, Valerie, Jessica, and I had the opportunity to sell Macy's coupons. They were only $5 and the donors would automatically be entered in the chance to win a $500 gift card to Macy's and get a 25% coupon as well! And, all of the money raised (each $5) was given straight to the Acacia Center, which was nice of Macy's to contribute.

I'm glad to see how the community supports such a wonderful organization like Acacia Center!

Veronica Williams (Miss 2nd runner-up), Me, Jessica, and Valerie Alcaraz (Teen 1st runner up)

Hangin' with the Polka players!

we like each other...

count your blessings!

Pageant Visit #1: Miss City of Orange!

2010-09-26T10:45:00.001-07:00

Last night, Jessica and I got to go to our first pageant, except we weren't in it this time (phew!). We had the enjoyment of actually watching a pageant without the stress of being in one :) After the Boys and Girls Club event, I picked up Jessica and we were off to Chapman University. When we arrived, we saw so many "sparkle heads", or more formally known as titleholders. Jessica and I are sort of outsiders in a way because we are the first titleholders of 2011, and the other girls were from last year, but it's okay because we now get to see the new girls that we'll be competing with at Miss CA!

It has been really special for me because I have been in the "Miss CA" family since 2007 and so I got to see a lot of old friends, some whom I competed with at the CA teen level! I was able to catch up with old-timers, Carley Ryckman, Laura Jean Berger, Jordan Krinke (Miss CA's Teen 2008), Gabby Marco, Heidi Hoganson Chandler (Miss City of Orange 2005), and Connie Lema. And of course, I had to get a picture with Arianna Afsar (Miss CA); we go way back! :) And by the way, Heidi, you are still the amazing violinist that I remember you as! You totally brought down the house! Us instrumentalists can still work it!

Jordan Krinke (Miss CA's Teen 2008, Miss Placentia 2009)

Carley Ryckman (Miss Santa Barbara 2010)

Laura Jean Berger (Miss Culver City 2010)

Gabby Marco (Miss Fullerton 2010)

Connie Lema; she has always supported me throughout the years!

love you Connie!

Arianna Afsar (Miss CA 2010)

The winner of the night was Katie Barnum and she is fantastic! Jessica and I totally called it! We were rooting for her! I can't believe that this was her first pageant; she totally kicked butt! It will be fun to compete with her at Miss CA!

Check out the results on the website: Miss City of Orange

Boys and Girls Club Wine Tasting Event

2010-09-25T23:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I attended the annual benefit event for the Boys and Girls Club, held at the Kiwanisland. Since I was on Miss GG court last year, I attended this event as well and this always has a great turnout! Hundreds of people waited in line to taste their favorite wines and eat some delicious food, but most importantly, they were there to support and sponsor the Boys and Girls Club of Garden Grove. Outback Steakhouse was the main provider of food, which I ate a lot of! Jay's Catering was there along with a few other appetizing caterers. There were many booths set up with silent auction items like original paintings, sports paraphernalia (some with famous autographs), restaurant gift cards, vacation plans, and even a talking Elvis head!

Aimee, and Bree joined me in selling the 50/50 raffle tickets and we sold $1440 dollars worth of tickets; that means that the winner of this drawing got a whopping $720! I was amazed to see how many people were so generous enough to support the Boys and Girls Club! Towards the end of the day, a live auction started! The auctioneer started off the auction by asking for people's selfless donations. The first donation asked for was $1,000, which would go to a child in the club and several people rose their auction numbers to do so. Another donation of $700+ was being taken and from what I remember, this $700 kept one child from the BGG club fed for one year. People left and right rose their number pads to donate $700. Again, I was amazed to see selfless giving come from so many people in our community, some of which were from out of state! The live auction had some amazing prizes! There was a giant plasma TV, a wine cooler, trips to Hawaii and New York, and some other prestigious prizes. The audience was going wild with their auction numbers! Through all of the excitement, it was awesome to know that all of the money was going to the Boys and Girls Club.

The auction area....such a great turnout!

Although this event was for a serious cause, it was a lot of fun too! I had the privilege to play the harp for the first hour as people walked in to Kiwanisland. I played the harp at this event last year and obviously the BGG club liked me enough for me to do it again! I set a peaceful atmosphere for those coming in frantically to register and I know people enjoyed my playing. :)

And I had a little surprise visitor! She is a frequent reporter for Channel 3 News and she was there to report this event! Chasta Nechvatal is my big sister, one of my best friends, and not to mention, she was Miss Anaheim 2007! I was Anaheim's Outstanding Teen that same year and we grew to be sisters. If you've missed out on knowing Chasta, I'll tell you all about her. She is SO beautiful, an amazing Tahitian dancer, has the sweetest spirit, and has achieved so much in her life so far! She is one of my idols and I love her so much! It was such a great moment, to see her as a reporter and for her to see me as a titleholder! She is thinking of competing again for a local title and I know she will kick butt! If she competes, I hope she wins so that we can be roomies at Miss CA in June! I'm so proud of her for being a Channel 3 News reporter, they're lucky to have her.

This is us now.....

and this was us then!

I continued to have a little fun throughout the day too! It has only been a little over a month since the GG pageant and I have already been to so many events! Like I have said before, attending events like this remind me how lucky I am to be in Garden Grove! This community is so close-knit and it is so great to see everyone come together to support such a great cause!

Bree, Me, and Aimee :)

Patty and I. She is the "sparkle head" chaperone. Love you, Patty!

I'm going to be a pro at this by the end of the year!

Bree, throw me that boomerang, mate! (said in an Australian accent of course!)

This was one of many silent auction prizes, I thought this was so cool! I wanted to get this for JJ at the Azteca Restaurant!

Burlington Coat Factory- Grand Opening!

2010-09-24T14:55:00.000-07:00

It's official! The new Burlington Coat Factory in Garden Grove is finally open! I was able to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony this morning and it was fun. I am happy there is another Burlington open nearby; it gives me more reason to shop! Mayor Bill Dalton, Councilman Broadwater, and other city workers were there at the ceremony and I was able to help cut the ribbon! After the ribbon was cut, the employees opened the doors and people fled in to shop. I walked in with Mayor Dalton and we were amazed to see the amount of NAME BRANDS there, and the prices are so LOW! I will definitely be going back soon to get some good deals!

click to read the official

Garden Grove Announcement

-this used to be the old Mervyn's, but now it's something WAY better!

I got to meet the new Burlington crew!

The BIG moment! Cutting the ribbon with employees and city dignitaries!

(L to R): Councilman Broadwater, Adrien- General Manager, Thomas Kelly- Vice President of Burlington, Mayor Dalton, Me, and Connie Margolin- Chamber of Commerce

Just shopping with the mayor, you know, it's a regular thing we do! haha

ADVERTISEMENT: Leah's New Website

2010-09-24T11:05:00.001-07:00

Hello Everyone!

I have launched my new website and I want to share it with you all! Although I am Miss Garden Grove, I am a harpist too! This website is for you to view and enjoy. I hope you remember me when you need a harpist for your special event, whether it be a wedding, reception, bridal shower, tea party, or any other elegant event! Refer me and my website to your family and friends and I will be glad to be of service to you!

Thanks for all of your support!

www.LeahHarps.com

Love,

Leah

Taste 4 Pacifica

2010-09-18T23:59:00.001-07:00

Tonight was a first time event like this for Pacifica High School (my alma mater!). This event was made to raise money for the Athletic Department at Pacifica and I think they raised A LOT of money tonight! It was a great turn out! Their goal was to sell 500 tickets and by 8pm, 480 were sold and there were still two more hours to go!

Many different restaurants had booths set up, showing off some of their best food samples! Jessica and I were able to indulge in scrumptious samples from Oggi's Pizza, Kerostena Mediterranean Grill, Russo's, Golden Spoon, On the Rocks, and Juice it Up! And of course, there was a wine and beer bar to go with the tasty food. Neither Jessica or I are 21, so we had to wear "minor" bracelets, but it didn't matter because I won't be drinking alcohol ever in my lifetime anyway. haha. There was a silent auction as well! Many clubs and businesses associated with Pacifica High donated baskets and other prizes up for auction! The prizes ranged from homemade scarves to skateboards and hotel reservations! That auction table was one of the hot spots of the night!

Now, Jessica and I were not only there to smile and be pretty- although, we have mastered this skill- we sold raffle tickets and boy, did they sell fast! We raffled off some pretty awesome prizes: Pacifica Mariner merchandise, and restaurant gift cards! Each ticket was one dollar, but we were giving out a great deal of 10 tickets for $5. Along with that, Super Mex was giving out $5 coupons for every $5 worth of raffle tickets sold! So you would break even anyway! Everyone loved this deal and the tickets were disappearing fast! Jessica and sold tickets for about 2 hours, but it was lots of fun to mix and mingle with new people!

Since I am a Pacifica alumnus, I mingled with some old friends of mine tonight and I got to reunite with a few of my past teachers as well! I was so excited! They were all so proud to see me as Miss Garden Grove and that I was making Pacifica look good!

The Pacifica Merchandise booth!

Mrs. Ficarola, but to me, Miss Kibbey :) (she got married recently)

-English teacher, Senior year

Mr. Franzman!

-Geometry teacher, freshman year

Mr. Anderson!

-Civics teacher

Mrs. Bryan!

- P.E. teacher

Mrs. McGregor!

- P.E. teacher

...and finally, Mrs. Rae!

-Principal at PHS, and she was my principal at Barker Elementary!

-she has watched me grow since 5th grade

All of these people were such a big support to me in high school and are still supporting me today! They all have influenced me in many ways and I have a lot of fun memories with each of them. I miss them a lot!

This event has a great turn out and I hope Pacifica will do it again next year!

"Going Pink" at Farmers and Merchants Bank

2010-09-17T23:58:00.000-07:00

What a day! Because the "Race for the Cure" is coming up in a week, the GG branch of Farmers and Merchants Bank hosted a beautiful event to raise funds for their cause against breast cancer. As you can see from the flyer below, GG citizens were invited along with Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez and myself. It was such an honor to be able to attend and witness the passion that so many people have against breast cancer.

Back: Trinka Rowsell, Bree Morse (1st Runner-up), Myself, Sandy Thomas, Aimee Le (3rd Runner-up), and Robyn Williams

The GG Farmers and Merchants Bank will be participating in the "Race for the Cure" on Sept. 26th their mission today was to raise funds for the fight against this horrible disease. As you can see in the video below, F&M Bank will be donating $125 for every new Pink Checking account opened! On average, a mammogram costs $125, so F&M wants to be able to pay for every uninsured woman to get checked early!

Here is the breast cancer awareness promo:

F&M Garden Grove Branch Manager Sandy Thomas shared the touching story of her childhood friend who is currently battling breast cancer. She explained that this friend is the major inspiration for the passion she has for this cause. Miss Loretta Sanchez and I were able to speak as well about the importance of getting regular check ups in order to increase the survival rate of this deadly cancer.

With Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez

F&M partnered up with the YWCA branch in Garden Grove. They are so proud to advocate breast cancer awareness!

Bree, Aimee, and me :)

Why is breast cancer such an important disease to fight? Here are some unfortunate but important facts to know:
• 1 out of every 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.
• Every 68 seconds someone dies from breast cancer.
• Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women.
• Without a cure in the next 25 years, an estimated 10 million will die from breast cancer.
• Breast cancer is a random and deadly disease. With respect to age, race, religion, socioeconomic status, breast cancer knows no boundaries.
But there is HOPE: If detected in the early stages, the survival rate is more than 98% -- that is why early detection is your best protection.
• Breast cancer survivors are the largest group of cancer survivors living in the United States!

Attending events like this remind me over and over how lucky I am to be a part of Garden Grove! I see so much passion involved in community service and compassion to others. I learned an important lesson in relation to the parable of the "Good Samaritan". Robyn shared a beautiful quote for all of us to remember:

"We shouldn't think of the kind of person if we would be if we helped someone; we should think of the kind of person we would be if we DIDN'T help someone."

Bree, Aimee, me, and Stacy

With the lovely and bubbly Sandy Thomas!

Sandy Thomas and family friends: Delilah, mom, and Trinka Rowsell

I met these two beautiful girls: Delilah and Samantha- she wore her crown just for me!

yummy sugar cookies!

WOMEN: WE ARE THE CURE! Take charge in your health and get tested early and regularly so that you can defeat breast cancer!

Miss Garden Grove and court with Wanda

Azteca Chamber Mixer!

2010-09-15T23:19:00.000-07:00

This was the first official Chamber Mixer that Jessica and I were able to attend! The Chamber collaborated at the Azteca Restaurant on Main Street in Garden Grove. The Azteca is SO delicious! They served us all enchiladas, rice, beans and delicious salad with a kickin' garlic sauce that is to die for! This restaurant has been a well-loved sponsor for the Miss GG Organization for many years and so it was great to see the restuarant host a Chamber event as well.

Jessica and I with Scott Weimer

Jessica and Stacy

Us with JJ, the owner of Azteca

Like every Chamber Mixer, there were many associates from local businesses present and it was a great turnout! Jessica and I got to meet JJ, the owner of the restaurant and he was excited to see us there. I forgot to mention that not only is this restaurant delicious, but the Azteca Restaurant holds one of the largest Elvis memorabilia collections! The restaurant is decorated similarly to Buca di Beppo, with the walls and ceilings covered in pictures, statues, etc., except it is all ELVIS! Jessica and I had never seen so much "Elvis" before! We even had the chance to take a picture with the beloved artist himself!

Gotta et a pic with the King!

We're his backup singers! the best in town!

Labor Day at the Elk's Lodge!

2010-09-07T18:29:00.000-07:00

This event, once again, has reminded me of how grateful and lucky I am to be a part of Garden Grove. The Elk's Lodge pulled off a fun-filled day to celebrate Labor Day. I took a picture of the day's schedule so you could see how much fun was going on! Jessica and I showed up around 4 and everyone was excited to see us! We felt so welcomed there. I got to meet Kevin Perkins, the Exalted Ruler of the Elk's Lodge and his lovely wife, Constance. I got to catch up with my friend, the Leading Knight of the Elk's, Mr. David Stamper- the "Grizz". He and I worked hard at the Elk's booth at the Strawberry Festival last year!

A photo moment with the wonderful Exalted Ruler and his First Lady....

He cutest little boy there! He was so excited...

singing "God Bless America" to the audience....

There were games, clowns, buffets, and no need to mention, the raffle prizes! I got to start off the raffle part of the night by singing "God Bless America" and everyone sang along with me; it was great. Then the real fun started and there was a lot to give away! Kevin Perkins, the Exalted Ruler of the Elk's Lodge, announced that there were 40 different baskets of prizes to raffle off, and that was a record! He was so amazed at the amount of donations that were given this year! Jessica and I were able to read off the winning numbers. Everyone was eager to win something; some even won 3 times! I guess they had a lot of luck! There was also a 50/50 drawing and the winning cash value was 500-something bucks! I was a little jealous when my ticket didn't get called...haha

Jessica and I in front of the highly desired Ford pick-up!

The grand raffle prize was a brand new Ford Pick Up truck! This truck has been on raffle since the Strawberry Festival last year! Since I was on court last year, I got to help sell raffle tickets during that Strawberry Festival with David, the "Grizz"! Each ticket was only a buck and I remember screaming to the crowds, "get your Truck for a Buck!" That really got people's heads turning. (If you want a chance to win a new car next labor day, look for the Elk's booth at this year's Strawberry Festival!) It has always been tradition that the newly crowned Miss Garden Grove draws the winning ticket for the truck and I continued that tradition! Not only was there a truck winner, there was also a second place prize of $500 cash, and a third place prize of $250 cash! So much money! Finally, the big moment came- it was time for a winner to claim their new truck! I drew the winning ticket! The man who won was not present, so David the "Grizz" actually called him and put his phone at the microphone so we could all hear his reaction. It was so cute, the winner was screaming and in total disbelief! I guess he was a local because he said that he was on his way to pick it up! It was great to hear so much joy.

Look how big the bin is! There were thousands of tickets in there!

picking the winning ticket!

- us after the truck drawing! Jessica and I with David, the "Grizz" (Elk's Leading Knight) and his wife, and Kevin Perkins (Exalted Ruler) and his wife (the Elk's first lady)

After the festivities, Jessica and I got to eat! We were treated with a warm plate of corn on the cob, pulled pork, beans, and cole slaw. A good ol' labor day feast!

The beautiful Jessica!

Jessica's family- sorry for the blurriness :)

Chamber of Commerce Bowling Tournament

2010-09-02T23:35:00.000-07:00

Wow! What an event! This event was held at the good ol' Valley View Lanes and it was a blast! The Chamber of Commerce sponsored this event and Sandy Thomas was the wonderful emcee for the night. There were many clubs and businesses there ready to bowl! The Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, Farmers and Merchants Bank, Embassy Suites Hotel, and a few other teams were competing and the tensions were high! Jessica and I had the job to sell raffle tickets to the bowlers as they walked in and as they were bowling as well. There were a lot of great prizes on raffle: Gift cards to Kersotena, Azteca Mexican Grill, Kaye's Kitchen, and Doug's Downtown Grill; a couple of luxury watches; Mary Kay products; a two-night stay at the Embassy Suites, and a basket full of Guiliano Peppers! The grand raffle prize was a Superman bowling ball! Jessica and I had fun drawing the winning tickets. I even got to help call out the winning numbers!

Jessica and I with the beautiful Sandy Thomas!

messing with the controls! NOT! :)

....and the winner is....

Jessica and I were able to have fun while still doing our duties...

We met some adorable kids! Emily, Chance, and Sydney

It was Chance's birthday! so cute...

...and we got to do some bowling, but not really...haha...

By the end of the night, there was a grand winner of the tournament along with 2nd place and 3rd place!

First Place!

Second Place: Embassy Suites

Third Place: Farmer's and Merchants Bank

"Classics on the Green" Car Show/Concert

2010-08-31T12:59:00.001-07:00

Okay, I'm a little late with this post, and I MUST NOT fall into the trap of blog procrastination! I have fallen into the trap of procrastination in too many other categories already! :) But here I am and I am excited to share with you the latest event Jessica and I were able to attend.

Last Thursday was the "Classics on the Green" Car Show and Concert. This took place on the city yard off of Euclid and Main St. (it's the park where the Strawberry Festival takes place). This event was run by the Garden Grove Community Foundation and they really pulled it off! This was the first event that Jessica and I had together and it was so much fun! Before the concert, there were many beautiful and classic cars displayed out on the lawn. But these cars were not on display just for the fun, there was a trophy involved! There were three different awards given out: The Mayor's Choice, The Foundation's Choice and the Special Anniversary Award. I am sure it was hard to choose only 3 out of many beautiful cars, but I know that everyone had fun in end! As the judging took place the Mariachi Divas come out on stage to perform! They are amazing! The Mariachi Divas won a Grammy in 2008 for best Regional Mexican Album and I can see why! They are all fantastic musicians and singers and the crowd was wild all night!

Before the Mariachi Divas performed, many dance companies performed. There were dancers from Bolivia, Mexico, and other Latin American countries. They were all so talented! I got a picture with some of the Bolivian dancers! And I was also able to meet a couple of foreign exchange students from China and Switzerland and they were excited to meet a "celebrity"!

The trophies were given out at intermission and I got to help! I'll need to get used to being "displayed" everywhere I go...haha. This event once again showed me how "small town" our big city is! It is so nice to see the community come together in big numbers and have fun out on the Green!

Just more reason to celebrate.....

2010-08-28T00:25:00.001-07:00

Jessica and I were featured in last Sunday's OC Register, and that was such an honor!
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/grove-263144-garden-miss.html

Then, the GG Journal surprised us with a beautiful article featuring the pageant! And they put me and Jessica on the front page! We are so excited! Thank you GG Journal!

And Garden Grove TV on Channel 3 featured me and Jessica in one of their news reports:

We are so lucky to be supported by so many people in our hometown of Garden Grove!

Why do I do this?

2010-08-24T22:35:00.000-07:00

I just spent the evening with Miss Garden Grove 2011, Leah Cecil. Our pageant was on Friday, August 20, 2010. We have been rehearsing since the middle of June. I truly love all over our contestants. Several of them (Bree, Veronica, Melanie, Aimee, Valerie, Jordan, Kristina and Alyssa) have competed for several years and we always have the amazing new-comers (Alexis, Rachel, Brittany, Missy, Christy, Robin and Tiffany). But, at the end of the day, you always have to welcome two new titleholders. This year we welcomed Leah Cecil and Jessica Tonti into the Miss Garden Grove Titleholder Family.

Leah (16 with braces), 2nd Runner-up in 2006 pageant; Rachel St. Marseille, Outstanding Teen; Amanda Shaw, 3rd Runner-up; Gennah Rodriguez, 1st Runner-up

Tonight was a special evening for me. Leah began competing with us six years ago, when she was 14 years old. There are pictures of her with braces on her teeth and her just learning to play the harp. Flash forward to six years later when she stood on stage as a regal and stauesque young woman about to be crowned Miss Garden Grove. Although I would have been equally ecstatic for any of the other contestants to win the title, I must say that I swelled with a sense of pride and satisfaction to watch an amazing young lady achieve a goal that she had been striving to obtain as a young teen. This girl is going to savor every moment of her year and will be an amzing representative for our city.

I am equally as excited for our new Outstanding Teen....Jessica Tonti. She has never competed before, but will be a force to be reckoned with at the state competition. She has been able to watch one of her dear friends, former Outstanding Teen Jennae Duran, represent the City of Garden Grove during the past year and will rock the house in Fresno next year.

I have heard from many guests in the audience on Friday that this year's "crop" of contestants had some of the best talent they had ever seen on the Miss GG stage. I couldn't agree more. I am so thrilled for Leah and Jessica as they begin their year of service, but am also in awe at the amazing group of girls who competed for the title. Any one of them would have been an awesome representative.

With that being said.......I want to throw out a shout to Leah, who has been waiting for six years to sit on top of the Miss Garden Grove Float. 2010-2011 is your year! Enjoy it, relish it and take it all in. I am so proud of both you and Jessica........it's going to be a great year.

Leah, 15 with braces too, at the bottom/foot of the float (2nd Runner-up). This year she will be at the top!

Love,
Stacy Margolin

Kia of Garden Grove- Grand Opening!

2010-08-24T18:55:00.000-07:00

Today was my first official event as Miss Garden Grove and I am so glad that I got to spend it at the new KIA dealership! Today was the grand opening and I got to help cut the big red ribbon. There were many city officials there including Mayor Bill Dalton, Mayor, Mayor Pro-Tempore Steve Jones, and Councilman Andrew Do. There were many members of development workers and other visitors there as well. It was so great to see so much support at this event!

From Left to Right: Steve Jones, Mayor Pro-Tempore; Andrew Do, Councilman; Bill Dalton, Mayor; Jared Hardin; Eric Hardin, Manager

Mr. Jared Hardin was the emcee for this event and he was very excited to open this dealership. The Hardin family has been in this business for over 3 years and and is determined to bring KIA sales up more now that they are in Garden Grove. Mayor Dalton spoke as well and I learned that KIA means "rising out of Asia" and he exclaimed, "Thank goodness they landed in Garden Grove!" He was also excited to mention that this dealership has created 25 new jobs and and raise millions of dollars in sales! He added that he "wants business here, but he wants the family aspect as well," and he knows that KIA will uphold that standard.

After the ceremony outside, we moved inside (where the A/C was!!!!) to do the toasts and eat! I got to meet the owner, Jared Hardin and I got to cut the giant cake! They have to put me to work somehow!

I promise I was drinking Sparkling Apple Cider!!! :)

Our first official picture together!

CHEERS!

With Eric Hardin, the manager of Garden Grove KIA

cutting the giant KIA cake!

The OC Register has covered this story:
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/dealership-235775-kia-new.html

Come to KIA of Garden Grove for your new car!

After-Party with the Fam!

2010-08-21T15:47:00.000-07:00

So, after the hour long "photo shoot" I had with family and friends, we decided to go to Denny's to celebrate! I saw some contestants there and even Harry Caray! aka Miss Lauren Howard :) I guess this could count as my first public event as Miss Garden Grove!

After many hours of "starvation" from the long night, I was able to indulge in a customized Grand Slam! So scrumptious! I didn't get to sleep until 3AM, but it's all good!

Love,
Leah

What A Night!

2010-08-21T14:56:00.001-07:00

Ahhhh, where do I start? I am just so honored to be Miss Garden Grove this year! Last night is still all a blur and it hasn't all sunk in yet, but I know it will be an amazing year! I have created this blog so you all can follow me as my exciting year progresses! I'll be posting pictures and comments about my events and I hope you enjoy!

Here are the results of the night:

Miss Garden Grove 2011: Leah Cecil

1st Runner-up: Bree Morse

2ndRunner-up: Veronica Williams

3rd Runner-up: Aimee Le

Miss Garden Grove's Outstanding Teen 2011: Jessica Tonti

1st Runner-up: Valerie Alcaraz

2nd Runner-up: Alyssa Alex

Again, it is an honor and I hope to make Garden Grove proud!

Love,

Leah

Miss Garden Grove 2011