Tulsa Today posted an article about my new title! Here's the link:
Tulsa Today: Tulsa Community College Instructor is Selected as Mrs. Tulsa America 2010
Friday, August 28, 2009
Thursday, August 27, 2009
In the News...
Photo by Daryl Wilson / Tulsa WorldCheck out the Tulsa World article featuring Kendall Whittier, Inc.!
Thank you Danna Sue and Daryl for highlighting our event!
Tulsa World: Plaid to Highlight Kendall Whittier annual benefit
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Mrs. Tulsa 2010!
I recently took my first steps on the journey to become Mrs. America! I will be representing Tulsa in the Mrs. Oklahoma America pageant April 16-17, 2010 at the Guthrie Scottish Rite Temple. I'm very excited about it and will prepare to compete with no regrets while serving my community as Mrs. Tulsa.
In the time since I have given up my Mrs. Oklahoma International title, I've learned that it's not the crown but the woman wearing it that makes the difference. Confidence must radiate from the inside out. When we believe in ourselves, forgive ourselves for mistakes, learn from them, and go boldly forward, we give others permission to do the same. But if you can believe it, you can gain confidence, grow, and become a stronger person tomorrow than you are today. My friend, Heather Rouba, Mrs. Oklahoma America and future Mrs. America(!!!), as well as my friends Kara Shull and Cassondra Smith, have helped God reveal these truths to me this year. I'm so grateful that God has placed these amazing women in my life! I still have much to learn and I embrace the opportunity. Thanks for joining me on my journey! Stay tuned for updates!
In the time since I have given up my Mrs. Oklahoma International title, I've learned that it's not the crown but the woman wearing it that makes the difference. Confidence must radiate from the inside out. When we believe in ourselves, forgive ourselves for mistakes, learn from them, and go boldly forward, we give others permission to do the same. But if you can believe it, you can gain confidence, grow, and become a stronger person tomorrow than you are today. My friend, Heather Rouba, Mrs. Oklahoma America and future Mrs. America(!!!), as well as my friends Kara Shull and Cassondra Smith, have helped God reveal these truths to me this year. I'm so grateful that God has placed these amazing women in my life! I still have much to learn and I embrace the opportunity. Thanks for joining me on my journey! Stay tuned for updates!
Thank you Ihloff and Tulsa Drillers!
Thank you to Ihloff Salon and The Tulsa Drillers for agreeing to donate for Kendall Whittier families. I'm constantly impressed and moved by the generosity and compassion of people from Tulsa.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Thank you Queenie's!
On behalf of Kendall Whittier, Inc., I'd like to thank Queenie's at Utica Square for supporting a great cause and helping Tulsa children and families in the Kendall Whittier neighborhood! Please patronize Queenie's, Starbucks, Miss Jackson's penthouse salon, and Coach, and thank them for their gracious generosity in helping their neighbors.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Thank you Cassondra, Starbucks, Coach, and Miss Jackson's for supporting KWI!
I met my friend Cassondra for coffee at Starbucks today, at the Utica Square location, to discuss our shared trepidation and plans for seeking auction item donations for KWI. I have no idea what has changed in the five years since I fundraised for the West Tulsa YMCA, but for some reason, this year I had been a little bit more nervous than usual about asking friends, family and community leaders for silent auction donations, even though it is for a wonderful and important cause. It's hard asking people for donations in this economy. Even so, I know that I love to have the opportunity to give, and I know that many business owners and mangers in Tulsa feel the same way. We gathered our courage and did our best!
Together, Cassondra and I did it! We spoke with representatives of Starbucks, Coach, Miss Jacksons, and many other stores. We were able to secure several wonderful donations today, and able to make several contacts that will hopefully become Kendall Whittier partners in the future. Cassondra and I overcame our fears and were able to really do something for KW families, and that makes me really proud of us. :) Great job Cassondra! Working together, we can help so many people!
I'd like to thank Starbucks, Coach, and Miss Jackson's for their donations and encourage others to give to help children to learn about nutrition, fitness, the importance of education and the dangers of substance abuse and premature sexual activity. We're also helping to feed many families in need and helping students to learn to love reading. Our students are receiving life changing mentoring and tutoring services. By providing these services and the tangible support of food and other items, we're giving families hope. I hope that you'll join the cause and give to our neighbors too.
Many people ask, "Who are these neighbors?" We're talking about families who live just north of 11th street. Looking at TU and its beautiful buildings, who would know that there were families living in such extreme poverty right next door? Thank you again to our donors! If you'd like to help, send me an email at SashaMTownsend@gmail.com, and I'll be sure to get back to you within 24 hours to set up an in-person meeting. Some people have told me, "You know, you can't save every child," but I know that if we've helped one child, we've done our job. Sometimes, it's just one caring adult that makes all of the difference. Kendall Whittier, Inc. has been helping children and families of our neighborhood for over 25 years. I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to help my neighbors! I hope you'll join the movement and help your neighbors too!
Visit us on facebook and visit our website for more information.
Together, Cassondra and I did it! We spoke with representatives of Starbucks, Coach, Miss Jacksons, and many other stores. We were able to secure several wonderful donations today, and able to make several contacts that will hopefully become Kendall Whittier partners in the future. Cassondra and I overcame our fears and were able to really do something for KW families, and that makes me really proud of us. :) Great job Cassondra! Working together, we can help so many people!
I'd like to thank Starbucks, Coach, and Miss Jackson's for their donations and encourage others to give to help children to learn about nutrition, fitness, the importance of education and the dangers of substance abuse and premature sexual activity. We're also helping to feed many families in need and helping students to learn to love reading. Our students are receiving life changing mentoring and tutoring services. By providing these services and the tangible support of food and other items, we're giving families hope. I hope that you'll join the cause and give to our neighbors too.
Many people ask, "Who are these neighbors?" We're talking about families who live just north of 11th street. Looking at TU and its beautiful buildings, who would know that there were families living in such extreme poverty right next door? Thank you again to our donors! If you'd like to help, send me an email at SashaMTownsend@gmail.com, and I'll be sure to get back to you within 24 hours to set up an in-person meeting. Some people have told me, "You know, you can't save every child," but I know that if we've helped one child, we've done our job. Sometimes, it's just one caring adult that makes all of the difference. Kendall Whittier, Inc. has been helping children and families of our neighborhood for over 25 years. I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to help my neighbors! I hope you'll join the movement and help your neighbors too!
Visit us on facebook and visit our website for more information.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Kendall-Whittier, Inc.
Hello friends and family! I have some news. I've been a volunteer with Kendall-Whittier, Inc. a very short time but I jumped in enthusiastically when I discovered their mission and found out what they are all about.
Kendall-Whittier, Inc.'s mission is to work together to improve the quality of life of the individuals of neighborhood. Specifically, KWI does this through their Emergency Food Pantry, an after-school tutoring and mentoring program, and community outreach and advocacy as a Partner in Education and through other avenues. For more information, go to www.kendallwhittierinc.org or visit us on facebook.
One of the things that I think makes KWI so special is that we're all about neighbors helping neighbors. The organization is focused on a specific group of people and their needs, rather than the needs that a certain group of volunteers want to meet. In a time when facebook, myspace, (blogger :)) and other social networking sites have replaced many face-to-face interactions, the work of KWI builds a sense of community. I believe that we all need to be connected to people. Each of us has something to offer, and the world is better when we all give of ourselves to help others. KWI volunteers and board members understand this. In addition to the life-changing work of providing students with role models, mentors, not to mention life skills, practical information, and tangible support in the form of food and supplies, these actions give people hope. It's amazing how much our actions speak so much louder than words do. Whenever my mom hears Extreme's "More Than Words" she thinks of me, and now I think, not only of her, but of the great work being done through KWI. When we bless people with something they need, they receive so much more than what is tangible and that's what Kendall-Whittier, Inc. is all about.
I'm currently serving a committee planning a benefit for KWI's annual fundraising event, titled "A Beautiful Night For the Neighborhood." I'm seeking monetary and silent auction donations for our event. KWI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so every donation is tax deductible. In addition, every donor will be recognized and promoted through the visibility of their items. It truly is a win-win for every one who is willing and able to donate something and residents of our neighborhood. If you feel called to donate something, please send me an email with your contact information and I will call you within 24 hours to set up an in-person meeting. I believe wholehearted in the work KWI is doing for children and families who live just north of me. I appreciate your kindness, your support, and your prayers for our event!
Kendall-Whittier, Inc.'s mission is to work together to improve the quality of life of the individuals of neighborhood. Specifically, KWI does this through their Emergency Food Pantry, an after-school tutoring and mentoring program, and community outreach and advocacy as a Partner in Education and through other avenues. For more information, go to www.kendallwhittierinc.org or visit us on facebook.
One of the things that I think makes KWI so special is that we're all about neighbors helping neighbors. The organization is focused on a specific group of people and their needs, rather than the needs that a certain group of volunteers want to meet. In a time when facebook, myspace, (blogger :)) and other social networking sites have replaced many face-to-face interactions, the work of KWI builds a sense of community. I believe that we all need to be connected to people. Each of us has something to offer, and the world is better when we all give of ourselves to help others. KWI volunteers and board members understand this. In addition to the life-changing work of providing students with role models, mentors, not to mention life skills, practical information, and tangible support in the form of food and supplies, these actions give people hope. It's amazing how much our actions speak so much louder than words do. Whenever my mom hears Extreme's "More Than Words" she thinks of me, and now I think, not only of her, but of the great work being done through KWI. When we bless people with something they need, they receive so much more than what is tangible and that's what Kendall-Whittier, Inc. is all about.
I'm currently serving a committee planning a benefit for KWI's annual fundraising event, titled "A Beautiful Night For the Neighborhood." I'm seeking monetary and silent auction donations for our event. KWI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so every donation is tax deductible. In addition, every donor will be recognized and promoted through the visibility of their items. It truly is a win-win for every one who is willing and able to donate something and residents of our neighborhood. If you feel called to donate something, please send me an email with your contact information and I will call you within 24 hours to set up an in-person meeting. I believe wholehearted in the work KWI is doing for children and families who live just north of me. I appreciate your kindness, your support, and your prayers for our event!
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Love Your (Mom's) Heart this Mother's Day
My mom and me after prelims at Mrs. International last summerBest wishes for a heart-healthy Mother’s day!
I worry about my mom and her health all the time. She has such a full schedule that her own needs, including an active lifestyle and a healthy diet, often take a backseat. This is all too common, and something she cannot afford to do if she wants to continue to be able to help her family! We have a history of heart disease in our family so our risk is particularly high. Your mom already has your heart, so I'm sure you can relate. This Mother’s Day why not give her a gift that will last a lifetime – her own heart health.Heart disease is the #1 killer of women, claiming the lives of one of three women in America. The American Heart Association doesn’t want you or your mom to be a statistic, so we created Go Red For Women, a nationwide movement to wipe out heart disease. The good news is that cardiovascular disease is largely preventable, it’s all about making heart-healthy choices, like ordering baked instead of fried or taking the stairs versus the elevator. And choosing to act.
ACT TODAY! Register your mom – and yourself – today and receive a sample recipe for guilt-free Blackberry Cake with Maple Icing, perfect for a Mother’s Day treat. The first 100 registrants also will receive a copy of the Go Red For Women Love Your Heart cookbook filled with delicious, heart-healthy recipes. In addition, everyone who registers will receive a red dress pin to proudly show your support and a monthly e-newsletter filled with heart-healthy tips programs, news, recipes and more.
You love your mom, now love your heart! We can turn our personal choices into life-saving actions. Our examples and activism can help save the lives of others, including the women we love. Let’s choose to beat heart disease, the number one killer of women at GoRedForWomen.org.
This post is an adaptation of an email sent to me by Go Red for Women.
Monday, May 4, 2009
The Oklahoma International Pageants
In all of the hubbub about my things getting stolen, I never posted about the wonderful contestants and their families! The ladies were unbelievable. Oklahoma International has an incredible sisterhood and the most amazing camaraderie. Every woman did her best, every woman benefited from the program, and every person grew through their involvement. For my opportunity to serve I am eternally grateful.
At the end of the night, Rachel Roberts, Mrs. Tulsa 2009, was selected as the new Mrs. Oklahoma International! Her response to her on-stage question gave me goosebumps. She is a natural, sincere, lovely woman with a message to share about postpartum depression. She is an excellent Mrs. Oklahoma already -- Rachel, welcome to our sisterhood! Rachel has such a big heart and I'm thrilled that she will represent Oklahoma! The first runner-up was the lovely Sherri Stewart. I honestly thought Sherri was going to win last year (the year I won!). Sherri has such personality! She is a fun, real, down-to-earth and beautiful woman spreading awareness of heart disease and stroke. The remaining contestants were just as beautiful and accomplished, and I feel honored to have had the chance to get to know them and learn about their diverse platforms. I know that the volunteerism will continue as each woman continues to promote her cause using her local title throughout the rest of the year.
The new Miss Oklahoma International is Caitlyn Taylor! What a beauty -- and another with a hilarious sense of humor! She had all of us cracking up backstage with her jokes about being a pretty, thin, blonde meteorology major. Her platform is Storm Ready. You have to listen to her talk about the weather -- She is a passionate young woman and she knows her stuff. Like all of the contestants, Cat shows that beauty and brains can come in the same package! Her first runner-up was Nicole Wray.
The new Miss Teen Oklahoma International is Lyndzee Vieweg. Lyndzee is stunning, with a passion for educating others and increasing funding for Lupus. She is another with a phenomenal sense of humor and a hugely generous spirit! She helped me with my stage make-up for the state Teen pageant last year.
The new Miss Junior Teen Oklahoma International is Summer Stolz. Summer is a beauty with excellent public speaking skills and a kindness and maturity that goes beyond her 10-12 years. This lovely young lady was very kind to me after the pageant. Hearing the kind words of this precious little girl meant so much to me.
Each of the contestants could have represented our state beautifully, but only four could take home their respective titles and all of the responsibilities and honors that come with them. Congratulations to every contestant for a job well done! I wish you the best of luck in all of your endeavors! Please keep in touch! Let your light shine!
At the end of the night, Rachel Roberts, Mrs. Tulsa 2009, was selected as the new Mrs. Oklahoma International! Her response to her on-stage question gave me goosebumps. She is a natural, sincere, lovely woman with a message to share about postpartum depression. She is an excellent Mrs. Oklahoma already -- Rachel, welcome to our sisterhood! Rachel has such a big heart and I'm thrilled that she will represent Oklahoma! The first runner-up was the lovely Sherri Stewart. I honestly thought Sherri was going to win last year (the year I won!). Sherri has such personality! She is a fun, real, down-to-earth and beautiful woman spreading awareness of heart disease and stroke. The remaining contestants were just as beautiful and accomplished, and I feel honored to have had the chance to get to know them and learn about their diverse platforms. I know that the volunteerism will continue as each woman continues to promote her cause using her local title throughout the rest of the year.The new Miss Oklahoma International is Caitlyn Taylor! What a beauty -- and another with a hilarious sense of humor! She had all of us cracking up backstage with her jokes about being a pretty, thin, blonde meteorology major. Her platform is Storm Ready. You have to listen to her talk about the weather -- She is a passionate young woman and she knows her stuff. Like all of the contestants, Cat shows that beauty and brains can come in the same package! Her first runner-up was Nicole Wray.
The new Miss Teen Oklahoma International is Lyndzee Vieweg. Lyndzee is stunning, with a passion for educating others and increasing funding for Lupus. She is another with a phenomenal sense of humor and a hugely generous spirit! She helped me with my stage make-up for the state Teen pageant last year.
The new Miss Junior Teen Oklahoma International is Summer Stolz. Summer is a beauty with excellent public speaking skills and a kindness and maturity that goes beyond her 10-12 years. This lovely young lady was very kind to me after the pageant. Hearing the kind words of this precious little girl meant so much to me.
Each of the contestants could have represented our state beautifully, but only four could take home their respective titles and all of the responsibilities and honors that come with them. Congratulations to every contestant for a job well done! I wish you the best of luck in all of your endeavors! Please keep in touch! Let your light shine!
Join me at the Go Red for Women Luncheon Tomorrow
9:00am - 1:00pmRenaissance Tulsa
Hotel and Convention Center
6808 South 107th East Avenue
Tulsa, OK 74133
The Go Red for Women campaign and Macy’s and Merck are working together to educate women about the #1 threat to women’s health – heart disease.
The Go Red for Women Luncheon is a fun and educational event designed to encourage women to become champions of health. The theme incorporates the 360 degrees of a woman’s influence: the community, home and work.
We anticipate over 750 women will attend the 2009 Go Red for Women Luncheon — a “red carpet” event comprised of corporate and social women with an education component focused on women’s health and a call to action.
Vendor exhibit booths will feature a variety of gifts for Mother’s Day, and our health expo will offer free health screenings (Heart Check-up, blood pressure, body mass index and glucose).
Mrs. Oklahoma International 2009 Rachel Roberts and I will be in attendance at the event, volunteering and helping our friends at the American Heart Association. The cost is $150 per person. Proceeds will be earmarked to fight heart disease and stroke in women. I hope to see you there!
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