Miss Brooklyn 2010

Applebee's FUN-draiser!

2010-10-01T08:13:00.000-07:00

Well, it happened! I have been so, so busy with every aspect of my life, blogging has, unfortunately, fallen to the wayside. However, Miss Brooklyn is still in the house! This past Saturday, I was joined by Joelle (MBOT), Claire Buffie (MNY), Hannah Wright (Miss Metropolitan) and Kim Cantoni (Miss Richmond County) for the Miss Brooklyn Applebee's Fundraiser. Tickets were sold for $10.00 and they included an entire pancake breakfast! All proceeds will be used to provide scholarships for the new Miss Brooklyn and Miss County Queen. We had some awesome ticket sales!

This fundraiser would not have been possible without all of these AMAZING ladies as volunteers! They were there bright and early to serve the guests who are proud supporters of the Miss Brooklyn Organization! Thank you, ladies! Although Claire and I see each other often, we had a blast catching up with Hannah and Kim on what they have been doing since Miss New York! It was no nice to chat about life, school, happenings and even boys! Haha After the breakfast, we all made our way to DSW for a little shoe shopping adventure and even a picture. DSW is an official sponsor of the Miss America Organization. Thank you DSW!!After our Applebee's event, Claire, Hannah and Kim were able to attend the Relay for Life at the World Financial Center Atrium where they were able to join forces with The Mixx to raise awareness for cancer (Read Claire's Blog Here . Unfortunately, since I'm on a mad hunt for a new apartment, I had appointments (that eventually were canceled) to check out some new places. It was a long day!

Now for the sad part.

I am sad. I am officially REALLY sad that my reign as Miss Brooklyn is coming to an end. Next weekend, we will crown the NEW Miss Brooklyn and also another title Miss County Queen!! As I will be competing in Miss County Queen, I will not be able to relinquish my title officially, but I will be there tapping my little toosh off to try and gain another chance to win Miss NY next year!

If you would like to come out to support me, buy some tickets!

Hope all of you are well!!

Mal

Let Me Pass You the Maple Syrup!

2010-08-27T13:11:00.000-07:00

And another thing....

Join me and Joelle, Miss Brooklyn's Outstanding Teen, on September 25th at Applebee's for our Flapjack Fundraiser! Enjoy a short stack for a tall cause!

Tickets are only $10.00 and the proceeds will be used to benefit the Miss Brooklyn Organization!

Www.MissBrooklyn.Com

Summer H.E.A.T.

2010-08-25T09:30:00.000-07:00

Where have I been?! I know.. I know. It has been too long since i've written a blog! Honeslty, though, i've needed a little time to catch up on life these past two months. However, I did have a truly remarkable appearance/experience this past Friday at the Summer H.E.A.T. (Help Employ Ambitious Teens) breakfast at Borough Hall. Summer H.E.A.T. is an organization spearheaded by our borough president, Mr. Marty Markowitz, to help place teens in summer jobs throughout Brooklyn. The jobs that become available in Brooklyn, thanks to many employers who care about the youth in our borough, are often jobs that help the students excell in the particular field they hope in which to some day be a part. Summer H.E.A.T. was able to place well over one hundred teens in summer jobs in 2010. It was such a pleasure to be a part of this wonderful recognition ceremony where so many young adults had the opportunity to be applauded for their hard work. Although Mr. Markowitz was unable to come to the recognition ceremony, our borough deputy president, Mrs. Jvonne Graham, was there in his honor and as a proud supporter of the Summer H.E.A.T. program. After a few words from Mrs. Graham, a former Summer H.E.A.T. success story, a few Summer H.E.A.T. employers and others...they asked if I would recognize the students and our borough president for all of their contributions to our amazing city. I was warmly accepted as the reigning Miss Brooklyn and many people were extremely interested in what it is that I do within our community. It was a great opportunity to promote the Miss Brooklyn Organization and it's ability to help teens and young women in the Brooklyn area succeed as well. I met some truly remarkable young women!

It's Good to be Miss Brooklyn...

2010-08-05T12:28:00.000-07:00

You know... it has taken me a while to realize that being Miss Brooklyn may be the best title in the Miss New York system that i'll ever have. Being the reigning queen of this prideful borough is proving to have some major benefits, but also giving me a huge voice (one i'm not sure I knew I had).

Last Thursday, I was invited by Mr. Brooklyn himself to attend Brooklyn's "Good Beer" event at BAM. It was amazing!! I mean, I have no photos to prove it, but I swear it was a great time! There were representatives from every local beer company there to promote their one-of-a-kind ale and a zillion Brooklyn restaurants to promote their delicious food. I highly recommend it to anyone who has the time next year... for $40, you can taste all of Brooklyn and drink all you want! Now, with that being said, it is also a wonderful networking opportunity. Hanging out with Jeremy (Mr. Brooklyn), I was able to meet a lot of great people in the Brooklyn community.

After the "Good Beer" event, Jeremy and I headed on over to Morton's Steakhouse in DUMBO to attend the American Cancer Society kickoff party! As I said before, I have been invited to be a member of the American Cancer Society's Pink and Black Tie Gala committee for next year. The kickoff party ended up being a small gathering of Brooklyn business owners, public relations representatives and socialites alike. Every person there brought something completely different to the table in hopes of creating something bigger and better than last year's event (which was amazing, by the way). The evening consisted of a small presentation about the Pink and Black Tie Gala and what will be needed to make this coming year another success. I think, and this took a LOT of thought, that I will be a part of the social networking committee (hard one, I know)!! But honestly, I think as much time as I spend updating facebook, twitter, my blog, etc. that I would do a great job promoting the Gala for next year via the web! :) I am actually extremely excited about it.

While at Morton's, I had such an extraordinary opportunity to meet so many people who were interested in the Miss Brooklyn Org. and the possibility of becoming committee members, scholarship donors or even just sponsors! It is amazing how every small opportunity can lead to a world of others. My ability to make the connection and relationship with the American Cancer Society has lead to, not only, personal gain through charity work, but also a trillion networking finds!

Joelle and I have a few appearances coming up, i'll be keeping you updated!

Until then...

Mal

Take Me Out to the Ball Game!

2010-07-23T15:30:00.000-07:00

Take me out to the mouuunnndddd! Watch me throw the first pitch Sunday...i'll be terrible, but it won't matter anyway, 'cause we'll root root root for the home team! If they don't win it's a shame! For it's 1, 2, 3 strikes you're out at the old balll gaaammmmmmmmeee!

Okay- maybe i'm not the best song writer, but you really should come out to support Joelle and I at the Brooklyn Cyclones game this Sunday! Joelle will be singing her rendition of " God Bless America" and I, my friends, will be showing off my not so fabulous pitching skills! Crazy. I know. BUT- it will be so, so, so much fun! I'm especially excited because i've never been to a Cyclone's game and I think it is going to be a blast. But, you should know, I did, buy tickets for Ben and I to attend the Sunday the 8th game! Officially a Cyclones fan, everyone!!

Another exciting appearance coming up for me will be this coming Wednesday July 28 at the famous Morton's Steakhouse in Brooklyn. I am so grateful for the relationship I have been able to build with the American Cancer Society and because of it, I have been invited to be a part of their planning committee for the 2011 Pink and Black Tie Gala (the one I attended in May where I met Stacey London!). THAT is amazing! I firmly believe that Miss America contestants should not confine their volunteer efforts to strictly their platform and I am looking forward to being a voice with ACS!

In other news, Miss Brooklyn is looking for volunteers! There are quite a few positions that we need filled in order to help this amazing local organization grow and therefore succeed. If you know of anyone who would like to be a part and volunteer their efforts for this wonderful scholarship opportunity for women, please email me at MissBrooklyn2010@gmail.com or Amaris Acosta at MissBrooklynOrg@aol.com. We would love some new company!

Can't wait to get you all some pictures!

Mallory

Oh My Gosh!

2010-07-19T15:58:00.001-07:00

Our Captain, here, was the Queen of Silly Bands!
(and also took a real liking to Claire's crown)

Claire and I were able to take some beautiful pictures with the city in the background!
(I spared you the one of me eating the Brooklyn Bridge :D )

I almost forgot to tell you about the fun appearance that Claire and I were able to do before I came home to Alabama for the week! Last Sunday, July 11, Claire and I were fortunate enough to be invited on the Princess and Pirate Kiddie Cruise around Manhattan! Before Miss NY, I was able to book this appearance and then thought it would be so much fun if Claire was able to be a true princess for all of the girls as Miss New York!
We had a great time painting faces, watching puppet shows and signing autographs for all of the children. Claire was so prepared that she brough three of her local crowns so that each young lady would have the opportunity to wear a Miss America crown and take pictures with us!

What was great, though, is that we were able to be a part of not one, but two birthdays! Both young ladies were named Katelyn!
This is Katelyn #1- It was her 6th birthday.

And this is Kately #2- It was her 7th!

We had a great time promoting the Miss America Organization to all of the young ladies aboard the cruise as well as some of the staff! People were very interested in how to become involved in Miss Brooklyn and Miss New York (score!)

Hopefully there are many more wonderful appearances to come between now and the end of my Miss Brooklyn reign!

Catch you next time,

Mallory

Moving On!

2010-07-19T15:42:00.000-07:00

Goodness! It seems that so much has happened for me in the past couple of weeks. It's crazy that it hasn't even been an entire month since Miss New York! When I returned home, I told you all that I had decided to take the leap of faith in to the entertainment industry. Well... it proved to be successful! I was offered a job from the very first audition. Talk about crazy! At first, I decided that I would be taking that job, but as the past week or two has unraveled, I am reconsidering my options. With Radio City Rockette auditions coming up, as well as a few other opportunities for stage, I think I am going to stick around NYC (which is really exciting to me.....and Ben)!!

I will say that I am a little disappointed that making such a rash decision means that I opted out of going to the National Sweetheart Pageant at the end of August. However, I am SO glad that Hannah will be representing the state of NY. I know for sure that she will do an amazing job!

With that being said, I am feeling the itch to start applying to schools for the spring semester. Although I have been doing my fair share of research, there are a few schools in particular that appeal to me! Let's hope that one of them works in my favor. :)

On top of all of that, this means that I have the opportunity to do a preliminary and also be a part of the Miss Brooklyn Pageant in October (originally I was going to be gone)! For all of this, I am very excited.

Now back to the world of Miss Brooklyn, Joelle and I have an amazing appearance this coming Sunday at the Brooklyn Cyclones Game! We will be playing the Staten Island Yankees at 5:00 AND it's Jewish Heritage Night! Wahooo!

Be looking for an update on Monday!

Mucho Amor,
Mal

Queens in Kings....Coney to be Exact

2010-07-04T09:20:00.000-07:00

Today is the 4th of July! Most people would be spending this day outside with "fun in the sun" in honor of our country's freedom from Great Britain, but not me. Nope! I did that yesterday with the amazing Keelie Sheridan (Miss Greater NYC) and Claire Buffie (the new Miss NY 2010). With combined efforts we had everything from tortilla chips and quacamole to hummus and wheat wraps- not to mention blueberries, blackberries, watermelon and veggies! We spent the much needed day off lounging on the beaches of Coney Island together. It was a blast! Although some of our conversation was "girlie," a majority of it was based on the Miss NY Org. It was great to see the current Miss NY really seeking our advice on how we think the organization can grow as whole and also how we can all work together to see that happen. I am so grateful for this experience in the MNY pageant and the wonderful opportunity to meet these amazing women. It was clear, after yesterday, that the three of us are so passionate about what this program has to offer each young woman... each of us has such a unique perspective and it was awesome to bring the three of them together and really be able to brainstorm for what's to come.After the beach, Claire and I were able to meet up with Jackie Holmes (Miss Manhattan) to do a late birthday celebration at a DELICIOUS Mexican restaurant in Hell's Kitchen. How amazing is it that we were all able to find these friendships through the Miss America Organization?! This is what the organization is about... finding the balance of personal gain and friendships. MNY/MAO is so much more than a pageant or competition- it's a life-changing opportunity to find yourself and grow through comradery and friendships as well. I am so proud to know each of these women and I look forward to hopefully spending many years to come laughing around restaurant tables in NYC or completely frying on the beaches on Coney Island.

I can't wait for next weekend!!

Mallory

Miss New York- The Aftermath!

2010-06-30T15:14:00.000-07:00

Joelle and I after the Miss NY's Outstanding Teen Pageant where she also finished 1st Runner-up!

Oh my goodness! I think I am finally rested! Today is the first day I was able to sleep late and it was fantastic! What a wonderful week I had in Albany and I could not be more proud to announce Claire Buffie, Miss Southeast NY, as the new MISS NEW YORK 2010!!! Finishing first runner up was quite the honor! I left with a little over $4,000.00 in scholarship money to put towards school! THAT is amazing and will certainly be helpful in the coming months as I decide where and what school that I would like to attend!
Claire and I, along with a few others, had a GREAT week together hanging out and enduring rehearsals. I had the most amazing experience- one that I will treasure forever. The week was full of many exciting activities, some of which I was able to tell you briefly about in my last post. Also, congratulations to Ali Stroming, Miss New York's Outstanding Teen! Ali is a BEAUTIFUL ballet dancer and young woman as well. She will surely make the state of New York proud at Miss America's Oustanding Teen in August!

By Saturday night, my feet were killing me, but I was so happy to have had such a wonderful week with so many amazing ladies! One of my favorite people of the week, though, was Mrs. Diane. I'm sure that all of the girls can attest that she was the most loving, motherly figure for all of us during our stay! All of the directors and board members made the week so relaxed and fun- I truly could not have asked for more.

Now on to more appearances! As listed before, on July 11th hopefully a few of us will be on a Princess and Pirate kiddie cruise around Manhattan! Following that, on the 25th, Joelle and I will be making a huge appearance at the Brooklyn Cyclone's Game. I am SUPER stoked about both of those! As of now, I still have not heard back from Boys and Girls Club or Girls Inc., but I am certainly trying. Keelie gave me some great advice about how to get through...so hopefully that will work out soon.

Along with my Miss Brooklyn agenda, I have decided I am ready to splash into the land of the entertainment industry! So... if anybody knows anyone, let me know. I am ready! I went on my first audition yesterday for Celebrity Cruise lines- let's keep our fingers crossed!

Love you all and THANK YOU for all of your support!

Mal Pal Little Gal

Miss NY So Far!

2010-06-24T19:00:00.000-07:00

I'm finally getting around to giving you all an update! This week is FLYING by and I have had zero time to catch up on the computer since mine is broken. Thus, this blog will be short and sweet. Hopefully, when I get home, I'll be able to spruce it up a bit! Thankfully, though, we were done early tonight!! The past few days were absolutely amazing. New York has such an amazing group of women vying for this wonderful opportunity. Each girl here is so connected with her platform, talented and on top of that...beautiful! Monday we had an entire day of appearances throughout this amazing and quite historic city followed by an ENORMOUS steak dinner provided by Angelo's Prime 677 Steakhouse. Tuesday was the most fun this far. In the morning we went to help Habitat for Humanity and all of us built an entire staircase! We were so proud. I personally got to use two of the huge power saws- I felt like a rock star (no lie). After Habitat, we came back to the campus to change and get all dressed up for our visit to the Capitol. We were able to visit the assembly and take pictures with quite a few of the assemblymen along with getting a modified tour of the Capitol building...so beautiful! Following the Capitol was my absolute favorite part of this week- visiting Girls Inc.! Man, they were sooooo excited to see all of us. The girls were thrilled to put on all of our crowns and banners to parade around the room. We had a bit of a question and answer session for the young ladies before coupling with one of them to chat and sign autographs for a bit before we were off! Yesterday was full of rehearsals...dance, dance and more dance...then a little interview prep. My interview was this morning and I ROCKED it! I've never felt so great about an interview in my life and I am glad it's over so the fun stuff can begin. I just hope I am putting it all out there...BIG PICTURE!

Sorry to be so short, but time is tickin'! I will follow up with pictures this weekend! Love you all and thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you for your prayers!

-Mallory

THIS IS IT

2010-06-21T03:05:00.000-07:00

This is me...sans make-up...it's 6:00 am!

That was my tribute to Michael...since the anniversary of his passing will be the day that I ROCK one of my favorite songs of his. That was kind of a sour note to start with (but not really).... i'm headed out to Albany (which means...this is it)!!!!!!! I am so excited. I've spent the last couple of days with Kerri shopping and getting last minute things nipped and tucked (yes, I did some serious alterations on my own) and ready to go! Not only is this week going to be so much fun, but I have my goals set high and I hope that the outcome is one that I will be happy with. The highlight will be getting to see my family and BEN (who has been in Cali since the first)!!! Okay- I have to keep this short and sweet because, well...I was supposed to leave 20 minutes ago. The Amtrak waits for Miss Brooklyn, right? ;) Thank you to everyone who has helped me get this far... I could NOT have done this without you (yes, even if you are home). LET THE GAMES BEGIN!

See you in a week!

Mal

Mr. New York 2010

2010-06-14T16:54:00.000-07:00

Joelle and I found a stretch limo to pose with!

Quick photo before the pageant!

Joelle and I with the first Mr. New York!

Last night was the first ever Mr. New York Pageant! Held at the Spoon Theater in Midtown Manhattan, 13 charming and quite handsome fellas competed for the inaugural title. It was a hit! They strutted their stuff in front of a packed audience and a panel of six very qualified judges including Miss NY 2008 and 3rd Runner-up to Miss America, Leigh-Taylor Smith. The guys were great!! Each one of them answered an on-stage question, modeled a swim suit, performed a talent and competed in evening wear. Jeoffrey Watson, Mr. Staten Island, blew the judges (and the audience) away. Miss Brooklyn's Outstanding Teen, Joelle, performed as well. Jeoffrey took home the talent award, swim suit award and the title of Mr. New York! He won over $1000.00 in cash and prizes along with a trip to see the Miss NY pageant in the coming week. The pageant proceeds went to Children's Miracle Network and general funds needed for the reigning Miss Greater NYC, Miss Southeast NY and Miss Liberty contestants for Miss NY. I certainly hope that the fundraiser was a success! I had a blast and I am so thankful for the chance to see many of the Miss NY contestants again before we head off to Albany for the week!The two of us with Rene Bionat a new friend of ours and director of Mr. New York!

The Final Count Down!

2010-06-12T11:15:00.000-07:00

Da na nuh na...da na nuh nah nuh...the final count down!!!! Yes..that is me singing. Not very well, mind you, but I only have NINE days until I leave for Miss New York and I could not be more excited to go to Albany! I am focused and ready for the job that is Miss New York. I feel as though everything in my life has fallen in to place for this dream to come true. Now... I just have to make it happen!

My best friend Ali has been sending me daily inspirational quotes and so far this is my favorite:
“Love never fails; Character never quits; and with patience and persistence; Dreams do come true.”
- Pete Maravich I believe it. The love of my family and friends has never once failed me. If anything, it has been the backbone that I have always needed to propel me forward. Good character is something that is, unfortunately, hard to come by. However, my parents have been the perfect examples of love, acceptance, forgiveness and honesty- never once faltering. It has taken a lot of patience in my life to understand that persistence will pay off. In competing for Miss Alabama, I was no where near mature enough to be a state title-holder. I've never been more ready than I am now and I can only put forth %100 to make my dreams come true.
So I will continue these next couple of days full-speed ahead. I am still in the works with Morton's Steakhouse and The Boys and Girls Club to promote my platform in the next few weeks- so I am going to put it in to the universe and make it happen! I look forward to packing and heading to Penn Station. My goal is to leave NYC as Miss Brooklyn and come back as Miss NY. I can do this!

Hugs,

Mallory

American Cancer Society's Eat, Drink and Be Hopeful

2010-06-09T16:20:00.000-07:00

Alex and Simon of The Real Housewives of NYC

American Cancer Society has been on fire lately! Last night I was so thrilled to be invited to their Eat, Drink and Be Hopeful event hosted by Alex McCord and Simon van Kempen of The Real Housewives of NYC and authors of the new book Little Kids, Big City! The event took place at the beautiful BellTel Lofts in Downtown Brooklyn. Patrons purchased tickets for $100.00 each or a VIP ticket was available for $125.00 in order to raise funds for cancer research. In my opinion, it was a hit! The evening consisted of some of Brooklyn's most delicious restaurants, wine vendors, drink providers and beer breweries scattered among one floor's worth of the BellTel Loft's most gorgeous apartments. There was also a silent auction including everything from small baskets from boutique stores to Disney World vacation packages and year-long memberships to Zip Car. Every room was filled with a taste of something magnificent from each vendor. I was able to mix and mingle with Brooklyn's restaurant owners to get the buzz out there about the Miss America Organization. I was surprised to find that most people have very little understanding of what Miss America is all about. Lucky for them I was there to explain! I spent the evening talking with business owners, restaurant managers and Brooklyn socialites alike about the benefits of being Miss Brooklyn and the ways that Miss America has truly enriched my life (okay, I may have had a nibble or two as well!)

The lovely gentlemen there to represent Brooklyn Lager. I thought it was only appropriate to take a photo with them. :)

Mr. Joe Roken, Manager of Morton's Steakhouse said doing a fundraiser for the Dove: Campaign for Real Beauty is a definite possibility!

These fellas provided me with a Salmon Tartare that was delicious!

The lovely ladies of Mojito's Cuban Cuisine. They were kind enough to invite me to join them for their "Sex and the City"-like event they are having in July (girls only!)

The wonderful American Cancer Society Brooklyn Director who is responsible for inviting me to all of these amazing events!

My new friend, Racine, who is getting ready to compete in the Miss Tropical Paradise pageant. We exchanged "pageant" details!

This guy was giving me a hard time! He claimed it was impossible for me to be Miss Brookly because he is "Mr. Brooklyn!" Haha

One of my favorite pit-stops of the evening was this Brooklyn restaurant, Palo Santo. They grow their own greens for their salad in their roof top garden! They served "salad on a stick" and it was to die for!

These two handsome guys were from Manhattan Beer Distributors and there to represent VOSS water!

More pictures to come, but this is it for now!

Appearing like crazy,

Mal

Taste of Times Square

2010-06-09T14:59:00.001-07:00

Want to talk about one of the most amazing things i've done since living in New York? Great! Me too! This past Monday, Joelle and I were so fortunate to be asked to participate in the Taste of Times Square event and perform for World Heritage Cultural Center. I will say, we had no idea what to expect, but it was amazing! We arrived to all of 46th street and the Times Square area blocked with tables and tables and TABLES of Times Square restaurants! We all know I do not discriminate when it comes to food and this was absolutely no exception! We were able to hang around the WHCC stage for a while before and after performing, making this experience truly remarkable. I performed the tap dance that I will be taking to Miss NY and Joelle sang the Leonard Cohen song made popular by the Canadian Tenors "Hallelujah."

We were followed by some great acts! There were salsa dancers, Bollywood performers, Rappers and so much more. World Heritage Cultural Center's goal was to bring different types of entertainment to the Taste of Times Square and they did a fabulous job! It really is hard to believe that I had the chance to perform in Times Square. It just goes to show that one tiny conversation can lead to a world of opportunities. Thank you Sattie and JuanCarlos of WHCC- we really appreciate you including us in such a big way!

American Cancer Society's Relay for Life

2010-06-09T14:49:00.000-07:00

On Saturday June 5, I was so honored to be a part of another American Cancer Society event. Relay for Life was held at the RedHook IKEA in Brooklyn and had an AMAZING turn out. The society raised over $90,000.00 to aid cancer research! I arrived around 4:00pm to get a feel for the area and also make sure that I had some time to change. I danced around 5:30 and stuck around for a few pictures with the Relay for Life banner, Ken the DJ and a few others nearby. The day was fantastic and I am so grateful that I was able to be a small part! I'm sad to say, though, that the pictures I took on my camera are lost in the land of technology somewhere. These will have to suffice until I can find them!

XOXO,

Mal

Grand Opening of Luna Park

2010-06-09T14:36:00.000-07:00

Joelle and I at the new Luna Park ticket booth.

Wow! It's been too long since I have given you an update. Everything just seems to be going a mile-a-minute! I spent this last weekend in Alabama and it was a much needed boost of last-minute adrenaline to kick me in to high gear for Miss New York! The wardrobe is...drum roll please......FINISHED!
With the exception of a few odds and ends jewelry pieces and the arrival of my swim suit, I am so pleased that everything is accounted for. Now... if we could just get this show on the road!

It was great to be able to see my family and friends! I'm finding that it can be a little bit difficult to stay on top of the game here all by myself, BUT my eyes are on the big picture and I know that the difficult times are just testing that theory. BIG PICTURE....right, Court? I was able to jam-pack shopping for interview attire, getting my hair done, p90x, ZUMBA, doing a little bit of interview prep and hanging out with my family and friends into...oh, you know....3 short days! I will say, though, that I am MOST excited about my swim suit that is being made. I've never had a custom swim suit and it is going to be tough! Not that the swim suit itself actually matters, but Don Baker is right.... hair, make-up and wardrobe must be in place (and let me tell you...that swim suit alone makes me feel "open and out-ward!") Aside from that, I tried on my evening gown when I got home...at Miss Brooklyn it was too small...now...IT'S TOO BIG! YAY!

Yesterday, Miss Brooklyn's OT, Joelle, and I were so honored to be a part of the Grand Opening of Luna Park at Coney Island. Upon arriving we were thrilled to take some promotional pictures on the new tea-cup ride! We took tons of photos with all of the painted faces around us and made a lot of new friends. Kristie, the Luna Park Events Coordinator, was kind enough to let us speak for a moment about the Miss America/ Miss New York/ Miss Brooklyn Organizations and then introduce the awesome band, The Alex Lodico Ensemble! The event was short and sweet for us, but I didn't let it stop there. A few friends of mine came along for the ride and they were lucky enough to enjoy the Cyclone while I was busy! After, we all scored a corn dog (eeeek! I know!) from one of the Coney Island vendors and enjoyed the rest of the day on the boardwalk. Talk about an AWESOME Saturday afternoon!

Being interviewed by Allison Hauns from WPIX!

We thought that Mr. Luna Park was worth taking a picture of...:)

A handsome by-stander that just HAD to get a picture. Just kidding... this is Ben!

Now, I am getting ready to step it up for the next three weeks! I'm adding cardio to every p90x work out and really trimming down. I've got about 5 lbs of fat to burn and 5 to turn into muscle. It's going to happen, people! I've said it once and I'll say it again....a few pounds will not keep me from achieving something i've worked a long time for. Along with that, i'm kicking the current event following into high-gear... which means out with Glee and in with channel 10 news! Haha I can not WAIT for Albany!

Last thing on the agenda (well, for this blog) is to thank the many people who were SO, so kind in donating to Children's Miracle Network for Miss New York on my behalf. I know that the young people across this nation who rely on Children's Miracle Network are eternally grateful for your kind hearts and giving spirits! Mary Lynn Bryan, Paulette Leon, Sean Snow, Sherrie Stanyard, Jaime Moore and Denise Cooper- Thank you so much for believing in me! I hope to continue to make you proud! :)

With love,

Mallory

Upcoming Appearances as MB 2010

2010-06-02T13:32:00.000-07:00

Well, everyone, I'm getting really excited for the month of June. SO much is going to be happening for me and the Miss Brooklyn Organization. As a title-holder, here in NY, you are pretty much responsible for making your own contacts and appearances. At first, I thought that this was going to be extremely stressful, but as it turns out, it is actually a lot of fun! I thought I would share with you a few things that I have coming up in the next couple of months. I hope that this list keeps growing because this is proving to be an awesome challenge!

June 5, 2010: American Cancer Society's Relay for Life- Red Hook IKEA
(Performing at 5:30 pm)

June 7, 2010: World Heritage Cultural Center's Taste of Times Square- 46th and 9th Ave (Performing at 5:30 pm)

June 8, 2010: American Cancer Society's "Eat, Drink and Be Hopeful"- Belltel Lofts in Downtown Brooklyn
(6:00- 10:00 pm)

June 19, 2010: Opening Pitch at the Brooklyn Cyclones Game (Fingers Crossed)- Miss Brooklyn's OT will be singing the National Anthem
(Time TBA)

July 11, 2010: Princess and Pirate Hudson River Kiddie Cruise- Pier #40 West Houston Street and West Side Highway
(12:00-2:30 pm)

*Tentative in June: Boys and Girls Club Appearances throughout Brooklyn's Clubhouses for Dove: Campaign for Real Beauty Workshops
(TBA)

Just wanted to give you all a heads up.. I would certainly love to see you there!

Love,
M

American Cancer Society's Pink and Black Tie Gala

2010-05-19T19:30:00.000-07:00

On Thursday May 6, 2010, I was honored to be able to attend the American Cancer Society's Pink and Black Tie Gala at Brooklyn's Steiner Studios. It was an amazing evening and a stylish tribute to the people of Brooklyn who have succeeded on stage and screen. The evening was hosted by TLC's What Not to Wear personality, Stacy London who was incredibly warm and inviting. The evening consisted of a cocktail hour and silent auction, followed by a multitude of performances, dining and ended on the dance floor.
I was fortunate enough to be a part of the cocktail hour where an enormous amount of media were present (YAY Miss Brooklyn Org!). I was interviewed on the 'pink carpet' and treated like quite the celebrity. It was all very exciting! I was able to mingle with many prominent Brooklyn names and get the Miss America Organization "bug" in their ear. I even gained a few appearances for the Miss Brooklyn Organization all thanks to the opportunity to be a part of this amazing evening. After the night was over I started to think that maybe my career should be in PR!

I was able to meet Steve Cohen of the Brooklyn Cyclones, JuanCarlos Gonzales of World Heritage Cultural Center, Peter Hedges (author of What's Eating Gilbert Grape, playwright and novelist), Tina Suganh the Bollywood pop star, Alex McCord of the Housewives of NY and, of course, Stacy London. The most memorable person I met, though, was a guest of Stacy's named Sara. She was extremely sweet and kind enough to take a photo of Stacy and I so that I would be able to put it on my blog. Thanks, Sara!!!

Basically, it was an awesome experience and one I will surely never forget! The fight against cancer is growing stronger thanks to the many sponsors and volunteers for the organization. The Pink and Black Tie Gala raised over $200,000.00 that everning.... not too shabby! I am so grateful for that evening and the many more to come with the American Cancer Society this summer!

2010-05-18T08:45:00.000-07:00

Well, first of all...I lied in my last post. That is not my judges book picture. In fact, I have no idea why I thought even for a second that it was. Haha! Maybe a temporary moment of stressed out insanity? Eh...either way, THAT picture is the one in the judges book. :)

Now, on to the real reason I am blogging today- P90X. Yes. Kill me. I started last night and I already feel like i'm going to be the leanest, meanest pageant machine of all time. OK not really, but I can already tell that it's going to be hard...and worth it. The only thing that I have ever let get me down, or hold me back concerning pageants has been my weight. Uhm... not this time, folks. I have no reason to let 10 or so pounds keep me from accomplishing something that i've waited and worked a LONG time to do.

With that being said, any encouraging words or thoughts... or prayers....or dollars(wait.. just kidding...kind of)... or annnnnnything to keep me motivated- send 'em my way!

Also, all of you kind people who love me so much....want to donate a little more to CMN so that I may reach my goal in the next couple of days? AWESOME! I knew you'd want to... ;)

Thats all for today, folks. Apologies for the informal-ness that just happened, but...well.... that's just how I feel today.

Love you all!

Headshots for Miss NY 2010

2010-05-02T19:43:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it has taken me this long to mention my head shots for Miss New York. I was SO excited about them! I had the pleasure of working with my good friend, Eric Hopf, and his wonderfully creative eye. He was kind enough to shoot the photos, email them for review and edit them all within three days. We were working with a deadline and he came through! Anyway, I thought I would do my best to share his work with you all via my blog. So- here are the photos that made the final cut. Above, the ones we loved but weren't quite it. The one below took the cake for the judges book!!!!!

You can check out Eric's fabulous work at WWW.Hopfoto.com- he's amazing!

Speaking of photos, Amaris and our wonderful PR representative for Miss Brooklyn were able to score a photo shoot for me for Supermodels Unlimited (the magazine)! Last Friday, I met with famous photographer Steve Azzera to do a shoot that will hopefully appear in the Rising Stars and Most Beautiful section of the publication. THAT, my friends, is SUPER DUPER exciting! I would include the photos from the shoot, but that will get me in trouble :P

I have a lot of exciting appearances coming up- i'll be sure to keep you posted.

Muah!

DOVE: Campaign for Real Beauty

2010-04-27T17:01:00.000-07:00

So I know I have stated what my platform is and how excited I am to be a part of the Dove movement in America, but i've yet to really share with everyone what the campaign is really all about. Although it is so much more than what I am sharing with you today, this is a glimpse of the growing crisis in our country among young women everywhere.
I encourage you, no matter where you are or what title you may hold, to become a part of the change in our nation. Love yourself, love others as they are and become aware of the message you send the young faces surrounding you. I challenge you to order campaign materials and conduct your own workshops whether it be in your home, community or school. Watch what you say regarding your appearance and what you hold at a high standard- you never know what little girl is listening....

Here is a long list of alarming statistics on the growing epidemic that is "body-image" straight from the Dove website:

Real Girls, Real Pressure: A National Report on the State of Self-Esteem
Commissioned: June 2008

Key Findings:
Real Girls, Real Pressure: A National Report on the State of Self-Esteem, commissioned by the Dove® Self-Esteem Fund, reveals that there is a self-esteem crisis in this country that pervades every aspect of a girl’s life including her looks, performance in school and relationships with friends and family members

Seven in ten girls believe they are not good enough or do not measure up in some way, including their looks, performance in school and relationships with friends and family members

62% of all girls feel insecure or not sure of themselves
57% of all girls have a mother who criticizes her own looks
More than half (57%) of all girls say they don’t always tell their parents certain things about them because they don’t want them to think badly of them
The top wish among all girls is for their parents to communicate better with them, which includes more frequent and open conversations about what is happening in their own lives

Reality vs. Perception: Low self-esteem significantly impacts girls’ overall feelings about their own beauty

71% of girls with low self-esteem feel their appearance does not measure up, including not feeling pretty enough, thin enough or stylish or trendy enough (compared to 29% of girls with high self-esteem)
78% of girls with low self-esteem admit that it is hard to feel good in school when you do not feel good about how you look (compared to 54% of girls with high self-esteem)
A girl’s self-esteem is more strongly related to how she views her own body shape and body weight, than how much she actually weighs

Girls with low self-esteem are significantly more likely to engage in negative behaviors

75% of girls with low self-esteem reported engaging in negative activities such as disordered eating, cutting, bullying, smoking, or drinking when feeling badly about themselves (Compared to 25% of girls with high self-esteem)

61% of teen girls with low self-esteem admit to talking badly about themselves (Compared to 15% of girls with high self-esteem)
25% of teen girls with low self-esteem resort to injuring themselves on purpose or cutting when feeling badly about themselves (Compared to 4% of girls with high self-esteem)
25% of teen girls with low self-esteem practice disordered eating, such as starving themselves, refusing to eat, or over-eating and throwing up when feeling badly about themselves (Compared to 7% of girls with high self-esteem)

The self-esteem tipping point: Transition to teenage years results in loss of trust and communication with adults

67% of girls ages 13 – 17 turn to their mother as a resource when feeling badly about themselves compared to 91% of girls ages 8 – 12
Only 27% of girls ages 13 – 17 will turn to their father for help when feeling badly about themselves compared to the 54% of girls ages 8-12. (At 16, girls become more likely to seek support from male peers than from their own dads)
65% of girls ages 13 – 17 refrain from telling their parents certain things about themselves to prevent parents from thinking badly about them, compared to the 49% of girls ages 8 – 12

Parents’ words and actions play a pivotal role fostering positive self-esteem in girls

Girls with low self-esteem are less likely to receive praise from either parent and more likely to receive criticism than girls with high self-esteem
More than one-third (34%) of girls with low self-esteem believe that they are not a good enough daughter (Compared to 9% of girls with high self-esteem)
93% of girls with low self-esteem want their parents to change their behavior towards them in at least one way (Compared to 73% for girls with high self-esteem)

Wishing to be understood better (Low: 60%, High: 14%)
Being listened to more (Low: 52%, High: 18%)
Spending more time with them (Low: 43%, High: 15%)

About Real Girls, Real Pressure: A National Report on the State of Self-Esteem
Real Girls, Real Pressure: A National Report on the State of Self Esteem, commissioned by the Dove Self-Esteem Fund, was conducted online among 1,029 girls 8 – 17, and is representative of the U.S. based on census indicators (region, ethnicity and parental education.) An additional 3,344 girls 8 – 17 were surveyed in a targeted study that was conducted in 20 major U.S. cities representative of each DMA based on ethnicity and parental education. The research was conducted by StrategyOne, an applied research consulting firm, in collaboration with Ann Kearney-Cooke, PhD. Methodology: Interviews averaged 15 minutes and were conducted between May 6 and May 28, 2008 using the online field services of ResearchNow.

About the Dove Self-Esteem Awareness Measurement
The Dove Self-Esteem Awareness Measurement was developed to provide an indicator of self-esteem encompassing an overall sense of self-acceptance, confidence and emotional orientation among American girls. Each girl surveyed was assigned a score based on how she rated herself in each of these areas. Based on their individual scores, girls were classified into three groups: high, average and low self-esteem. The high self-esteem group was comprised of girls whose scores fell within the top third of the distribution, the average self-esteem group included girls whose scores fell within the middle third of the distribution and the low self-esteem group included girls whose scores fell within the bottom third of the distribution.

About Dove
The Dove mission is to make women feel more beautiful every day by challenging today's stereotypical view of beauty and inspiring women to take great care of themselves. Dove, manufactured by Unilever, is the No. 1 personal wash brand nationwide. One in every three households uses a Dove product, which includes beauty bars, body washes, face care, anti-perspirant/deodorants, body mists, hair care and styling aids. Dove is available nationwide in food, drug and mass outlet stores.

So I hope this gives you a little bit of insight...

Love

Whew! Now that all of THAT is over....

2010-04-25T13:31:00.000-07:00

I can finally breathe! I mean, i've clearly been breathing this whole time, but you know what I mean. ;) These past two weeks have been absolutely jam packed with all sorts of crazy things in my life and i'm just now finding my self with a little bit of time to share.

For starters I found myself really freaking out two weeks ago about everything going on in my life and how I was going to find the time to get all of the things I needed to do done and in a timely manner. I was in the middle of changing from one job to the other and literally working ALL day, every day. On top of that, I was extremely worried about all of the things I needed to do in order to prepare for workshop this weekend including shopping, getting paper work done, maintaining work and having two appearances. This may all sound trivial, but we all know that nothing gets done quickly in New York.
My parents came to save the day. Last Wednesday I got a call from my mom that said she would be in on Friday and leave on Sunday to help me do whatever needed to be done before this weekend. I cried. I felt kind of stupid about the fact that I was crying, but honestly, it never fails: my mother can always find a way to help or make things better.
So, upon her arrival last friday, we promptly completed all of my necessary paper work to be turned in and hit the pavement. We shopped all day Friday and Saturday and were successful in finding an interview dress and something to wear to workshop. Along with that, we were able to try on a few swimsuits, but there are still a few things I need to purchase before June.
After mom left on Sunday, I went straight back to work doing both jobs until Wednesday night when I had an appearance at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater in Manhattan. WFMU radio show hosted an interview with me and a few other people throughout the city- it was quite the experience. Every man in the audience said "Va Va Voom" to me... individually. Haha!
http://sevenseconddelay.blogspot.com/2010/04/your-picture-with-miss-brooklyn.html
http://www.wfmu.org/playlists/shows/35501

You can listen and check out pictures at those two links!

Thursday morning April 22, I was fortunate enough to be invited to the Block Institute in Brooklyn to be a part of their Earth Day celebration. The Block Institute School provides educational and therapeutic services to young children with a variety of developmental disabilities. I was able to help till the garden, use the compost, plant lima beans, plant flowers in front of the school, paint rocks for the garden and even help raise money by purchasing a cookie at their Earth Day sale of art, jewelry and baked goods! The morning was packed full of activities for the children to participate in and the tight schedule kept them movin' and shakin' from one to the next. I am so thankful to the director, Mr. Adleman, for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of such a special day!
And lastly, there was workshop. Amaris, Joelle and I left fairly late Friday evening to make our way to Albany and prepare for the early morning we knew we had yesterday. After waking up and getting ready, we caught a cab to the University at Albany SUNY campus to meet the 2010 class of Miss New York and Miss New York's Outstanding Teen contestants. The day was long! Full of dance rehearsals, orientation, interview prep, wardrobe information and mingling with the other girls. It was so nice to meet everybody and I'm really excited that it's such a small group! By the end of the week, I feel like we will all be good friends. I am so excited for June!
Now, though, it's time to kick into gear and put my nose to the grindstone!

Keeping you updated,

Mallory

Miss New Generation Pageant

2010-04-03T23:46:00.000-07:00

KayAna Williams and I after her performance on stage.

Hello, all!

So I had my first appearance today. Boy, do I miss having my own car! It took me FIVE busses to get to good 'ole 48th street and Farragut for the Miss New Generation pageant, but it was absolutely worth it! Although, I'm sad to say, I didn't get to stay for the entire thing. :( (Miss Brooklyn has to make rent somehow!)

However(!), I was thoroughly impressed with all of the young ladies who competed this afternoon! According to their lovely mistress of ceremonies, Amaris, each of these aspiring beauty queens met for a month before today to rehearse their production. Considering that the contestants were all under the age of 10, I would have to say that's an accomplishment in itself. They began the afternoon with a crowd- pleasing production number (which I've posted a small portion of below), followed by special entertainment from a charming gentleman, Damien. KeyAna Williams (former Miss Brooklyn's Outstanding Teen- pictured above) took the stage with an up-beat jazz dance as well. The first phase of competition for the girls was "Outfit of Choice." Each young lady was asked to pick an occasion and dress accordingly. They were really creative! My favorite was Allison Paul. Allison chose a "tea party" for her special outing and her attire was complete with a tea cup and teddy bear. The last phase of competition I was able to stay for was talent. I've included a short clip of Ashanti Davis' rendition of "The Climb" by Miley Cyrus. All of the girls were fantastic!

I hate it, but I still do not know who won! I'm sure I'll be seeing an update soon...

Hey I'm just glad there will be a new "queen" to take over the Brooklyn media!

A big thanks to Jay and Mary for their wonderful 'reality' video on the Miss Brooklyn pageant.

www.thebrooklynink.com/tag/mallory-hagan/

A few more articles...

www.gothamist.com/2010/.../a_new_miss_brooklyn_has_been_crowne.ph

www.brooklynpaper.com/stories/33/.../33_14_ac_miss_brooklyn.htm

www.nypost.com/.../here_she_is_your_new_miss_brooklyn_ psxCfDR8wVzEFWMSpAURjN

www.nyprdiva.wordpress.com

Later gators!

Mal

Wow!

2010-03-31T09:43:00.000-07:00

What an honor, Brooklyn!

It has only been three days since I was fortunate enough to receive the title of Miss Brooklyn 2010 and the response from everyone has been absolutely overwhelming. This past Sunday was such an eventful one, but I could not have accomplished anything this weekend without the support of my family. Thank you Mom, Dad, Kerri and Marty for coming all the way to New York to cheer me on in this endeavor. I know that I made it through this weekend because all of you were here! Also, a big thank you to Joe, Travis and Ben for being such great sports and supporting me always! It appears that I have been welcomed into the Miss Brooklyn Scholarship Organization with open arms and I cannot wait to represent this amazing borough.

I would like to acknowledge all of the young women who competed for the title on Sunday; Teresa, Aubrie, Venuza, Ireen, Sydney, Christina, Amanda and Breanna, I had such a GREAT time getting to know you all. You were the nicest, most genuine girls I have ever come in contact with back stage and I hope that each of you will continue on the journey that is the Miss New York/ Miss America Organization (I know we all talked about how beneficial it is!).

As soon as they crowned me, Amaris (I'm sure I will be referring to her quite a bit from now on... she is the new Miss Brooklyn Org. Director) said to me "get ready for a crazy year because it will never stop!" I'm already beginning to think that she is right and I LOVE it! I thrive on being busy and I am already enjoying the many press emails for write- ups in local papers. I look forward to the appearances and opportunities that will help me promote my platform, the Dove: Campaign for Real Beauty and Miss America's Platform: Children's Miracle Network.

The Campaign for Real Beauty was created by Dove to "help free the next generation from self- limiting stereotypes." If I can be a part of that mission and dream by reaching just one young woman throughout my journey as Miss Brooklyn, I will consider my reign a success. An only child, I was "raised by the village" in many ways, but the most important thing to me has always been the level of support from my family and friends. My "pseudo dad," Sean, once quoted to me "To whom much is given, much is expected." I have been given the gift of endless encouragement and support (along with quite a bit of financial help). I realize that there are many girls here in Brooklyn, in our great state and in this country who go weeks or months without so much as a pat on the back. My goal is to reach out to those young girls through educating them on body image and promoting a clearer definition of beauty. My hope is that this blog will allow you to follow me on that path.

Aside from my platform and the obvious excitement of going to the Miss New York state pageant, I hope to share my zest for life with the people of Brooklyn. Although i'm originally from Alabama, in the time i've spent in New York, Brooklyn has grown very close to my heart. I love New York (and not in a tourist t-shirt kind of way) dearly and I truly believe this is the city where dreams come true. Thank you, Brooklyn, for helping me get one step closer to mine. :)

Here's a link to the Brooklyn Eagle write-up about this past weekend.

http://www.brooklyneagle.com/categories/category.php?category_id=31&id=34475

I'll be keeping you posted on my up-coming adventures!

Mal