Blog last updated 08.22.08
July 2008 - Happy 4th!
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July 4th: I was honored to be the Grand Marshall in the South Elgin 4th of July Parade. The theme was Red-White-Blue-Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness. The Blue Sports Car that I rode in was driven by a three time Cancer Survivor.
What a delight to be involved with a community that represented so much positive energy. One of my favorite floats of this parade was filled with animals. I truly was treated like royalty.
Thank you South Elgin for your warm hospitality!
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July 9th: Easter Seals Fundraiser in Plainfield. This was a Lady’s Night Out Event. Mothers, Daughters, girlfriends, neighbors, and friends were invited to partake in an evening of fun by enjoying a couple of hours of pampering yourself. A small donation provided a goodie bag, personal make over, refreshments, and most important the proceeds went to a good cause. Raffle tickets were sold and even a local Avon representative gave out free manicures, which I took advantage of. My new friends, Mikaela Gissy and Kori Kunstman, gave me a manicure with Avon products. What a Treat!!! For more info on Avon products, www.youravon.com/bkunstman .
July 18th: I was an honorary guest at the Miss Columbus Competition where the winner will be the queen of the Columbus Day Parade. I was Miss Columbus 2001 and was honored at the Columbus Day Parade. I sat at a table with so many past winners, and it was a privilege to speak to the guests about my experiences as Miss Illinois USA and as a past Miss Columbus winner. This event is annually sponsored by the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans http://www.jccia.com/ |
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June 2008 - Happy Father's Day!
June 2nd: I was invited to be one of the judges for the Pleasantdale School Talent Show in Burridge, “So You Think You Got Talent.” And boy do these kids have talent!!
From singers and dancers to magicians and musicians, I was amazed by the extensive talent of these grade school students. I was welcomed by my official “Miss Illinois USA ” greeting committee, which alone was an honor. Then as I entered the school, they had made a huge banner to welcome me to their school.
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Before the talent competition, I gave a speech on the importance of music programming in the schools and how proud I was of all the students at Pleasantdale School for their participation in the arts and the growth of their self esteem and confidence through involvement.
It was great to see a school that provides the opportunity to improve communication skills, extend children’s experiences, encourage emotional development, and improve self-esteem in their youth. Children can actively shape their own development through their choices to participate in programming and their perceptions of these programs. Being healthy, satisfied, and productive adolescences will transfer into adulthood.
It was an honor to see Pleasantdale School staying committed to helping the youth prepare for their future, for they will become the parents, citizens and leaders of tomorrow. Success will be realized when all students have equal access to all the arts. |
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June 8th:
I participated in the Special Olympic Torch Run sponsored by the Evanston Law Enforcement. On this weekend, Special Olympic participants along with the community ran the "Flame of Hope" from the north end of Illinois to the Opening Ceremonies of the Illinois State Games.
It was so wonderful to take part in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, which is the largest grass-roots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle. I participated alongside more than 85,000 law enforcement officers who carried the Flame of Hope across 35 nations, raising awareness and funds for Special Olympics. In addition, we sold Torch Run T-shirts and other merchandise before the run to help raise funds.
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June 19th:
The 14th annual ABC Channel 7 Jim Gibbons 5KRun / 3K Walk Survivors’ Strut in beautiful Grant Park. What a delight to participate in this event along with thousands to raise funds for individuals with leukemia, lymphoma or myelodysplastic syndromes -- blood cancers that will claim tens of thousands of lives this year.
The Leukemia Research Foundation, headquartered in Glenview, Ill., is dedicated to funding research and providing support to people affected by blood cancers. The Foundation's mission is to conquer leukemia, lymphoma, and myelodysplastic syndromes by funding research into their causes and cures, and to enrich the quality of life of those touched by these diseases. This foundation has helped raise more than $39 million to help fund research.
Leukemia Research Foundation information is available www.leukemia-research.org
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June 20th:
Another Best Buddies fund raiser. This cocktail reception was held at the ever so exciting Underground in the heart of Chicago held by the Best Buddies Illinois Junior Board.
It is always a pleasure to participate and help with the National Best Buddies Organization.
Check out more information at http://www.bestbuddiesillinois.org/ |
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May 2008 - Happy Mother's Day!
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On May 4th, I joined the movement and walked for a cure for MS during the Greater Illinois Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s 19th annual Walk MS event. Before the walk, Nora, Miss Illinois Teen USA, and I helped during the opening ceremony and cheered on the more than 3,000 participants as they began their walk along the lakefront, and then I followed right behind them.
After the completion of the walk, I was interviewed by Columbia College Media, which was televised that evening. The National MS Society, Greater Illinois Chapter, offers a wide array of local programs and services to inform and empower people and their families living with MS.
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May 11th:
The annual Y-Me Race for a cure supporting Breast Cancer Research and Education was held. Annually I partake, and this year, even in the pouring rain, I participated with the more than 50,000 people that gathered in parks across the nation and helped raise $9 million in support of Network of Strength’s free-of-charge programs and services. It was cold and rainy but being surrounded by so many people was so inspirational.
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May 24 - 25th:
The Indianapolis 500!
Thank you to my dear firend, Jennifer Mattingley, a past Miss IL contestant for tickets and pit passes to the Indianapolis 500. Jennifer, Monet Stunson, (Miss IL USA 1st RU), and I had a blast taking pictures and being up-close & personal throughout the entire race. What a great time!!!
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April 2008 - Happy Spring!
Within a week of returning from Las Vegas, I was making appearances and being interviewed. One special appearance was on April 22nd. I was honored to participate in the 36th Annual "Celebrate Fashion" show fundraiser presented by the Lipinski-Callahan-Daly Memorial Chapter of the Leukemia Research Foundation.
My Teen sis, Nora and I were not only honorary guests, we helped out with the raffle and auction, and we were featured in the fashion show, wearing fashions by Annie’s, Bellissimo Boutique, and My Sister’s and Me Boutique. I was pleased to be a part of this great event to raise money to fund research to conquer leukemia, lymphoma, and myelodysplastic and to enrich the quality of life of those touched by these diseases.
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For more information:
http://www.lipinskicallahandaly.org/
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March 2008 - Happy Easter!
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March 2nd was a very special day for me. My University was proud to present their very own Miss Illinois USA at the Allstate Arena during the basketball game between the DePaul University Blue Demons and the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame.
Also that day I was a special guest at the International Beauty Show where I took photos, signed autographed and met many stars.
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March 6th, I was very happy to arrange my new Special Olympic friend, Erika Jackson, to attend an NBA Game and watch the Bulls beat the Cavaliers. She was so thrilled to take pictures after the game with us Luvabulls.
March 9th, I took part in the Taste of Elegance in Northbrook, Illinois. This was a benefit to raise money for the American Cancer Foundation. I helped with the raffle, auction, and announcement of the many prizes throughout the night. |
March 12th, I accompanied Bulls players Thabo Sefolosha and Aaron Gray to visit one of the 40 Illinois Center for Rehabilitation and Education-Roosevelt (ICRE-R) students. The ICRE-R is a state-run residential facility for children and young adults with severe physical disabilities and other health impairments. I met the students and helped demonstrate dribbling, shooting and free throw techniques along with members of the Chicago Wheelchair Bulls. I even played a quick game of wheelchair basketball.
Additionally, I took part in a question and answer session and signed autographs for the students. Bulls’ mascot Benny the Bull was also there throughout the event bring such joy to the children. It was a pleasure to be apart of such an organization that prepares young people with severe physical disabilities for a successful adult life through a comprehensive program of education and training.
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A very special thank you to The Chicago Bulls, “Team Mates”, and all of the volunteers and Bulls front office staff that worked as a team to make this night’s initiative a huge success!
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My proposal to raise money for Susan G. Komen Foundation was fulfilled and a great success. I am happy to report that we raised over $5,000 for the Komen Foundation to help fight breast cancer.
During the game on March 14th, Chicago vs Philadelphia 76ers, Fans were able to purchase special pink and black Bulls Hats at all the gate entrances as well as throughout the concourse during the game. I, along with several volunteers, Bulls' "Team Mates", and Luvabulls, walked the concourse selling these hats to fans.
During Halftime, tables were set up to sell throughout the concourse as well as one main table where I was at signing autographs and hats. We also passed out information and other promotional brochures provided by the foundation.
All proceeds from the sale of the hats that night went to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. It was a wonderful thing to see men, women, and children wearing the pink and black hats in support of the cause. We are still receiving phone orders for those who were not able to come to the game, and we continue to receive so many more donations.
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On March 15th, The Luvabulls gave me a Miss Illinois USA Send Off Celebration. Many friends joined the festivities wishing me much success at the Miss USA pageant on April 11th.
March 16th, I took part in the Easter Seals Telethon, live from 10am until 8pm at Olivet University, the summer training camp home of the Chicago Bears. With live on-air interviews and helping with the show, it was a delight to help raise funds for an organization that provides exceptional services to ensure that people living with autism and other disabilities have equal opportunities to live, learn, work and play.
Now, on my way to Turkey...
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March 20th, I left for Turkey to be the NBA spokesperson and to dance for the Beko All Star game in Istanbul. It was such an exciting trip. The welcoming of opened arms from the delightful people of Turkey was phenomenal. NBC sent a video camera with me to document my travels in my own very POV (Point of View).
Check out this link to see Shanon's video that aired on NBC.
It was all so amazing...performing at the Beko All Star Game, being featured in Turkish Newspapers, getting interviewed by reporters, trying Turkish delicacies, and touring the beautiful sights of Istanbul! It was hard to leave such a beautiful & hospitable country. |
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It was a beautiful encounter to be photographed with so many FANS from all across the NATION.
And above all, THANK YOU to all of my ILLINOIS' FANS!
To see my enitre Miss USA photo gallery - click here! |
February 2008 - Happy Valentine's Day!
On February 1st, I had the pleasure of taking part in the annual Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's Grand Chef’s Gala. This event was held at the Fairmont Hotel. I assisted with the showcasing of the auction, posed for photos, and helped in the selling of roses for the foundation.
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It was a pleasure meeting Dave from “Top Chef.” He was just as nice as he portrayed in the show. What an enjoyment to come together with the community for this great cause...to help find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis.
About 30,000 children and adults in the United States are affected by Cystic Fibrosis. It is rewarding to take a moment to see what a difference you can make by supporting events like this. My hope is to continue to be involved with this organization throughout my reign as well as into the future. |
February 5th was the Super Tuesday Primary Election Day in Illinois! I am a registered voter in the 39th Ward / 26th precinct and voting in all elections is a priority of mine. Some photos are posted of me voting in this highly contested Presidential Election.
I joined former Chicago Cubs and current Chicago Blackhawks President John McDonough on February 9, 2008, for Comcast’s fifth annual winter gala, "Cold Hands Warm Heart," raising funds for Little Heroes Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation in Chicago. |
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Little Heroes is a not-for-profit foundation, affiliated with Children's Memorial Hospital and Comer Children's Hospital at the University of Chicago to provide helpful tools and comfort in the fight against neuroblastoma. It was an honor to be apart of this wonderful event. They even auctioned off the necklace I wore throughout the evening raising funds for this great organization. I have since been asked to be an official affiliate to continue to advocate for children with disabilities in the educational setting.
On February 11th, again I helped out with Comcast SportsNet at their 20th annual Comcast SportsNet Sports Awards benefiting the March of Dimes at the Hilton Chicago. The dinner and live telecast, was emceed by Chicago radio legend and morning personality Steve Dahl of WJMK-FM 104.3 “Jack FM.”
In addition to helping out during the silent auction, I was honored to meet and escort award recipients such as Jim Thome (White Sox), Ted Lilly (Cubs), Robbie
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Gould (Bears), Chad Barrett (Fire), Joe Smith (Bulls), plus a special tribute to the late William W. Wirtz was accepted by new Blackhawks Chairman W. Rockwell “Rocky” Wirtz (Blackhawks). Also Andre Dawson, former Chicago Cubs All-Star and 1987 National League MVP, was the recipient of the “Lifetime Achievement Award.”
The hightlight of the evening was meeting my new friend Erika Jackson, a 17-year-old, three-sport Special Olympics athlete from Westmont, IL. She is an inspiration to us all, and her
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perseverance and determination landed her a spot on Hinsdale South High School’s junior varsity swim team. We now keep in touch, and I will be her personal cheerleader at her future events.
Besides taking pictures, signing autographs, and helping present awards, it was a pleasure to meet the Ice crew from the Chicago Blackhawks, former offensive tackle for the Chicago Bears and sport anchor Dan Jiggetts, and “Stormin’ Norman,” Norm VanLier, former guard for the Chicago Bulls.
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Since the official announcement was made that the 2008 Miss USA pageant is being held on April 11th in Las Vegas, a very busy schedule is ahead of me to prepare for this big event. In addition to the appearances I have scheduled, the charitable events, training classes, dress shopping, more photo shoots, practices, and more dancing, dancing, dancing; I have just learned that I have another international trip planned. I am going to TURKEY! I will surely be tossing and turning the night away thinking about “What’s Next?” All I can say is...bring it on!
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February 18th I participated in the remarkable organization "Queen for A Day." I helped organize this first ever event in the Chicagoland area. Together with amazing volunteers we visited Children’s Memorial Hospital for a day in pediatric oncology/cancer unit. We reminded the children what it is to be a kid again. I pampered the girls with makeovers, manicures, and made it possible for their very own coronation ceremony. and each girl received a real tiara, makeup, and jewelry! For the boys, to encourage the qualities of bravery and courage, firefighter hats, trucks, and sporting equipment were passed out. These kids are truly the special heroes of the world. It was a pleasure taking pictures, signing autographs and making each one of these children feel empowered and special for the day. |
February 21st, I accompanied Bulls players, Joakim Noah & Demetris Nichols, on a tour in the Field Museum’s George Washington Carver exhibit with 30 students from the James Jordan Boys & Girls Club in honor of Black History Month. We toured the Museum and learned of the life of African American scientist and educator George Washington Carver. He was the first African American born scientist to be featured in an exhibit at Chicago’s very own Field Museum. |
February 21st, I accompanied Bulls players, Joakim Noah & Demetris Nichols, on a tour in the Field Museum’s George Washington Carver exhibit with 30 students from the James Jordan Boys & Girls Club in honor of Black History Month. We toured the Museum and learned of the life of African American scientist and educator George Washington Carver. He was the first African American born scientist to be featured in an exhibit at Chicago’s very own Field Museum.
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It was great to spark the interest of these children to learn more about Carver’s remarkable achievements as a scientist, conservationist, educator and humanitarian and encourage them to continue to attend museums and learn more about history. I always try to show through my actions that education is a life long process. As a special treat, all 30 students received gift bags courtesy of the Bulls and myself. We also signed autographs for the children.
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To raise money for Special Olympics, on February 23rd, a cold 18 degree day, I took the plunge into frozen Lake Michigan. The Polar Bear Plunge is an annual event which helps Special Olympics continue to promote, foster and encourage physical and mental health through athletics, recreational and social activities for children and adults with disabilities. It was a privilege to lead all the plungers in the official Plunger Oath and be the first into the frigid water. Due to the cold temperatures, a circle opening had to be cut into the ice to allow us to jump into the water. Now that is Cold!!! Many say, "it is crazy," but I say “anything for a good cause!!!” After the plunge, I helped pass out special “Plunger Awards" to those who raised the most money and judged the Costume Contest. What a Blast! I was even featured in the Chicago Tribune the day after, check out the pictures!!!
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February 29th, I helped kick off the National Education Association's 11th Annual "Read Across America" event. Hundreds of local schoolchildren were invited to the Navy Pier to be apart of this marvelous event.
Celebrating Dr. Seuss’ birthday, I read the famous “Cat In The Hat” story to hundreds of students and encouraged them to not only touch but open up books with their family and read! Accompanied by the Dr. Seuss characters, “Thing 1” and “Thing 2,” we celebrated the fun and uniqueness of reading and brought out the kid in all of us, just as Dr. Seuss did with the magic of the written word.
Efforts like "Read Across America" are not only a lot of fun, but also important for fostering the joys of reading and the value of literacy in our students. I was honored to be a part of this event to encourage and foster education.
The organization also provided more than 12,000 books and thousands in cash grants to public school libraries. Check out the link to learn more about the great programs NEA has created. http://www.nea.org/index.html
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January 2008 - Happy New Year!
This month included a fun-filled international trip to the Netherlands, appearances, and interviews all leading up to my arrival back in the United States to re-group; and now it is back to game time!
On January 19th, at a Chicago Bulls' home game against the Detroit Pistons, I was honored as Chicago’s hometown Miss Illinois USA 2008, as well as a Chicago Bulls' Luvabulls Dancer. The presentation at the United Center was beautiful and so exciting as they presented me, announced my name, and played a montage of the crowing moments on the jumbotron. They also continued to play several clips of the crowning moments as well as the announcement on the big screen throughout the evening. It was such a joy to stand before all the Chicago NBA Fans representing them as their Miss Illinois USA 2008. |
  
Watch the announcement by clicking here! |
This month I also had my official photo shoot with Dan DuVerney. When I went for my consultation, Dan introduced me to Latino Designer James De Colon. It is his designs that I wore for my fashion photos. What a remarkable experience to work with such an extraordinary talent, James De Colon, and be styled in such flawless fashion. It felt like I was shooting for the cover of Vogue. Not only did I take fashion shots, I took the official headshots and crown & banner shots for the Miss Universe Organization. Special thanks to Photographer Dan DuVerney, Stylist Marcus Geeter, and Designer James De Colon. View the photographs posted in my photo gallery on this website! |
December 2007 - Happy Holidays!
This past year, I have had the opportunity to travel nationally and internationally with my NBA Dance Team - The Luvabulls.
Late December, we traveled to the Netherlands. This was my first international trip as the new Miss Illinois USA 2008. We danced & entertained, and had several photo shoots while representing Illinois in the Netherlands at the Amsterdam Harlem Basketball Week (AHBW), a well-established international basketball tournament.
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Spending Christmas in the Netherlands and sharing the holiday with new friends from England, Wales, Turkey, Greece, Serbia, Brussels, Canada, and of course, a few Americans who are living oversees was amazing! We performed throughout the week, signed autographs, and we were treated royally by our hosts in Harlem and Amsterdam.
I had the opportunity to hold a dance clinic for a group of young girls and boys during one of the tournament days, teaching them simple moves that made them feel like part of our dance group. As a coach, choreographer, and dancer, I thrive on interacting with young boys and girls and making them smile. |
While in the Netherlands, I was interviewed and photographed for several newspapers and local television stations as the new Miss Illinois USA 2008. What an unforgettable experience! Meeting and taking pictures with the United States Team playing in the tournament was so incredible.
It is always a delight to bring the excitement of an NBA Game to those in another country, but this time I brought along the excitement of the Miss Illinois USA title, and was welcomed with open arms by all the Dutch Fans. |
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After the pilots of our international flight were told that Miss Illinois USA was on their flight, they invited me to sit in the cockpit and experience a flight in process. I even was able to stay there during the landing and overhear all the action on the headset.
I have been very fortunate to travel internationally so extensively; it affords me the opportunity to experience many different cultures firsthand. I walk away from each of these journeys with far more than I ever anticipate. |
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November 2007 - Winning the state pageant!
As the New Miss Illinois USA 2008, I would like to express my gratitude to the Illinois State Directors, Deborah Miller & Cynthia Provost, their Staff: Angela Shealy, Ashley Stewart, Michelle Zoglio, head pageant chaperone Beverly Turkowski and her staff, and the pageant coordinators; I commend all the fine individuals that worked so hard to put together a production as grand as the Miss Illinois USA pageant.
I am honored to be your Miss Illinois USA 2008 and I am looking forward to the Miss USA pageant, which will be held live at Planet Hollywood’s Theater of the Performing Arts in Las Vegas, Nevada on Friday, April 11, 2008! |
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Sunday, November 18, 2007, was the crowning. That night was amazing! When they announced that I was the winner, my adrenaline rush was as high as possible. I was immediately interviewed by two television networks which were televised that night. On Monday, the morning after the competition, Nora Downs, the newly crowned Miss Illinois Teen USA 2008, and I appeared on Fox Morning Show, “Good Day Chicago.” I have been on the Fox Morning Show many times, so I was quite comfortable with Mike Barz chatting about the crowning and my upcoming year as Miss Illinois USA 2008. |
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| After the interview, I was asked to do additional sound bites for the show to be aired at a later date. Be on the look out for me throughout the upcoming mornings saying “Good Day Chicago, this is your new Miss Illinois USA, Shanon Lersch!” Check out the interview link: click here |
Following the Fox News Interview, Nora and I had our first official photo shoot together at Chicago’s very own Navy Pier. Although the weather was a bit cold and rainy, the photo shoot was a blast! Nora and I both live in Chicago so we are familiar with Chicago’s weather and how it can change in an instant.
The “Windy City” certainly lived up to its name that day, but we survived. The photographer was able to get so many fun pictures near beautiful Lake Michigan, some shots in the Skylight Room, and we even experienced the top of the Ferris wheel on that windy morning. Thanks to Angela Shealy for planning such a great day after the competition. Check out the photos on this website in my photo gallery!
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