The Online Diary Alexandra Milbrath

An "April Update"

2008-04-30T07:21:00.000-07:00

April 30, 2008

Disney’s Grand Floridian Hotel was the setting for Aflac’s ‘Conference of Champions’ where I had the honor of singing our National Anthem for over 600 of the organization’s highest achievers. Thank you to the Aflac Corporation and Event Producer Mr. Oz Roberts for your hospitality and generosity in making this an awesome experience for me!

The Orlando Opera celebrated their 50th Anniversary Season with a spectacular production of Puccini’s Turandot conducted by Maestro Anton Coppola of Hollywood’s famed Coppola family. Many thanks to Mr. Jim Ireland President and CEO, Michelle Robinson Special Events Coordinator and Claire Hodge for inviting us to join in this glorious celebration and welcome The Opera’s Patrons as your Special Guests!

Samantha’s Friends welcomed our Miss Florida Family including former Miss Floridas Dana Dalton Judge, Mari Wilensky, Vice President Rob Loy and Yours truly to The Pot of Gold Charity Fundraiser Gala Brunch and Show. The Days of Our Lives cast were also featured at the beautiful Lakewood Ranch Country Club in Bradenton, to raise awareness and funds for this important cause. The mission of this non-profit organization nurtured by Samantha Bozza, her parents and volunteers is: “To help young people challenged by a catastrophic illness gain their independence with the assistance of a service canine.” It was a heart warming sight to witness the introductions of these gifted pets to their new and delighted owners.

Speaking of pets, Samantha invited my dog “Gabriel” to march in the “Pet Parade!” A fantastic time was had by all! Thanks again for including us in this meaningful event! When Lach Orthodontics in Oviedo asked to feature us in an ad campaign for their practice, we were more than happy to describe the pleasurable experience we had with their wonderful staff of professionals. As time draws near to Orientation, I am so looking forward to spending time with you all! We are going to have an incredible weekend together!

Love, Alexandra A Favorite Quote: “I am wealthy in my friends.” - Shakespeare

HAPPY SPRING!

2008-03-20T06:14:00.000-07:00

HAPPY SPRING 2008!

I’d like to offer my heartfelt Congratulations to all of our new local Teen and Miss Titleholders who have won so far and to the local directors and volunteers who make it all possible! What an honor and privilege it is to represent the incredible Miss Florida Pageant!~
I’d like to encourage you in your efforts in vying for the state title. There is excitement and hard work in preparation. I promise, your dedication will bring out in the best in you!

I’d like to thank ‘Pageantry Magazine for featuring me and my National Princess Gracie Westerfield in their Spring 2008 issue! We have had the best time getting to know each other!

Currently, I’m in rehearsal for my school’s (Circle Theatre Company) spring performance of ‘Once Upon A Mattress’ - to be held at The Orlando Repertory Theatre in early May. (If you’re in town, come by. I’d love to see you!) I’m looking forward to performing a principal role of “Lady Larken,” and being on stage again with my Drama friends.

At the Grand Opening of the newly refurbished Winter Garden Theatre, I had the pleasure of meeting one of my favorite Broadway performers- Mr. Davis Gaines aka THE Phantom of The Opera! He fondly recanted memories of the role he portrayed 2000 times! He was glad to hear that it was the classic song “All I Ask of You” which I performed at our State Pageant and The Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Pageant.

A Favorite Quote: “Never giving up and pushing forward will unlock all the potential we are capable of.” Borgeld

APPEARANCES!!!

2008-02-28T10:28:00.000-08:00

PIANO RECITAL

It was exciting to have performed my original composition of “The Tinderbox.”

SOIREE DIGNITE’ GALA

We greeted over 700 guests at Downtown Disney’s Raglan Road Irish Restaurant during this splendid event sponsored by “The Friends of Dignity.’ Their efforts benefit the charities of The Henri Landwirth Foundation. Thank you very much for us as your “Special Guests!”

FIRST EVER WINTER PARK FASHION WEEK GALA

As is done in cities like Paris, New York, and Milan, the merchants of Winter Park created their own fashion week. Trunk shows and celebrity appearances occurred all week long.
I was invited to help “kick-off” the celebration at the opening night VIP Reception. I was fortunate to have met many prominent civic leaders and business owners in Winter Park, as well as see some of the newest fashions!

PINK HEART BOUTIQUE GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION

Thanks to Nancy and her daughter Cynthia for inviting us to be part of this special occasion, and for letting us model some of their impressive pieces. Best of luck with your new shop in trendy Baldwin Park and thanks to ‘Orlando Style Magazine’ for featuring our picture!

A Favorite Quote: “Kindness is always fashionable.” Barr

GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION FOOTWORKS DANCE STUDIO

Having danced for many years, I feel at home in a dancing school, and Footworks Dance Studio in Winter Garden was no exception. Thanks so much for inviting me to conduct the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for your spacious new center. I met many lovely and talented dancers to whom I wish much success in the future!

WALK FOR DIGNITY

Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte Springs was the setting for this fund raiser, benefiting the Dignity U-Wear Organization. Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Central Florida businesses and individuals, over $6500 was raised within a 90 minute period! Kudos to Megan Clementi for heading up the effort! It was great to see Allison again as well as the Miss Orlando girls.

HAPPY WINTER 2008!

2008-01-30T08:15:00.000-08:00

HAPPY WINTER 2008!

I was pleased to entertain and co-emcee with actor Franco Botley at one of my former local pageants Miss Seminole County. Thanks, Carry and David, for the stunning gown! I enjoyed “catching up” with Miss Seminole County 2007 Kelly Foster, as well as the lovely and talented contestants. Congratulations to Amanda Pitman Miss Seminole County 2008!

The Miss UCF Pageant’s ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s theme was quite elegant. Denisha Jenkins Miss UCF 2007, as well as the contestants, expressed themselves with poise and grace. Congratulations to our new Miss UCF 2008 Audra Martin!

‘Legally Blonde’ the Broadway Musical was the theme for the Miss and Teen Orlando, City Beautiful and Winter Park Pageants. It was my pleasure to co-emcee the Teen Pageant with Rebecca Chisholm. I was delighted to entertain with a solo and duet with my sister Adriana Miss Orlando Preteen 2007.

Allison Kreiger Miss Florida 2007 and David Lang of Regalia co-emceed the Miss competition. Thanks again David and Carry for my fabulous gowns! I was invited to perform a solo and had a wonderful time in the finale with my pageant sisters Rachel, Megan, Rebecca and all of the aspiring contestants! Congratulations to the Miss winners Lisa, Ashley and Kaitlyn and to the Teens Ashley, Ashley, Kaitlyn and Rebecca!

A Favorite Quote: “Optimism is essential to achievement and its also the foundation of courage and true progress.” Butler

Congratulations Kylie Williams!!!

2008-01-29T08:17:00.000-08:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO KYLIE ON YOUR TOP 16 STATUS AT MISS AMERICA!

I can’t tell you how proud I am of the way you represented the state of Florida at The Miss America Pageant and on TLC’s ‘Reality Check.’ You are not only a complete “package” of beauty, brains and personality, but you gave us a deeper vision of your wonderful character. You have been an inspiration to me and I’m sure to many whom you’ve met, as well as to those you have not yet met.

Congratulations to our New Miss America Kirsten Haglund! I hope to meet you someday soon!

CHRISTMAS IN FLORIDA 2007

2007-12-25T08:20:00.000-08:00

CHRISTMAS IN FLORIDA 2007

More than 1,000 people came to the ‘Share A Night, Light A Light’ Tree Lighting Celebration benefiting the Ronald McDonald House on the campus of Florida Children’s Hospital. We were invited to lead a sing-along of holiday favorites while joining the children in the festivities of meeting live penguins, Pete and Penny; throwing snowballs, and welcoming Santa. Thanks to K92 Radio and for all of the support of organizations throughout Central Florida for this necessary cause.

THE CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

2007-12-24T08:21:00.000-08:00

THE CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

The Children’s Home Society of Central Florida welcomed us with open arms when we visited on Christmas Eve Day. It was a memorable experience as the children gathered around us, as we shared our thoughts of the meaning of Christmas. Thank you so much for the pleasure of your company!

PARADES, PARADES!

2007-12-23T08:23:00.000-08:00

PARADES, PARADES!

Each parade was a blast in every way!

The morning of The Orlando Christmas Parade, Kylie, Adriana, National Princesses Gracie and Rachel and I were invited to a VIP Reception. We met country music singers, Bryan White and Michael Peterson. The Parade was televised locally and statewide
and we were interviewed “live” as we rode in a horse-drawn carriage.
We enjoyed a delicious Christmas brunch afterward at Logan’s Bistro and had a wonderful time together that day!

The Winter Park Olde Town Christmas Parade was telecast on Brighthouse Network. The parade route travels down Park Avenue (one of my favorite places!) Thanks to the Volvo Store who provided two very cool convertibles for our group.

Baldwin Park’s ‘Festival of Lights’ Parade began at nightfall and was simply gorgeous.
What added to the magic was a horse-drawn carriage led by two majestic white stallions!
A Favorite Quote: The grand essentials of happiness are: something to do, something to love, and something to hope for. Chalmers

MISS AMERICA’S OUTSTANDING TEEN PAGEANT

2007-08-15T10:10:00.000-07:00

MISS AMERICA’S OUTSTANDING TEEN PAGEANT

Even though I didn’t have to travel far, I still feel that I went on a remarkable journey that I’ll always remember…….

Before I knew it, I was surrounded by 51 of the most beautiful, intelligent and extraordinary girls I had ever met! Each one was a marvelous representative of her state, and within a short time we embraced each other’s unique and wonderful personality.
We realized that although we came from different states, we shared many common interests!

Our week began as a fantastic whirlwind of excitement! Upon arriving, I attended a publicity interview which would appear in the video scrapbook of contestants shown on the Final Night.
Next, I was adorned in a gorgeous sky blue Tony Bowls Promline Gown for a photo shoot with Zac Grimaldo. A special “Thank You” to Mr. Bowls for the GIFT of our opening number silk halter dresses!

Later that night, we had a great time at a dinner/dance party, where we tried out all the latest dance moves. My roommate was Madelynn Wager Miss Michigan’s Outstanding Teen. We hit if off instantly and discovered our birthdays were just days apart!

Our Opening Ceremonies were held at Medieval Times Dinner Theatre. It was a night filled with royalty, prancing horses and jousting! Each of us was introduced carrying our state flags. GO FLORIDA!!!

In addition to the actual competition, there were many events held in our honor throughout Orlando. A few memorable ones were-

The Bloomingdale’s at Millenia Mall Pampering Party.
We were welcomed with chocolate, fruit, refreshments and makeovers. What more could a girl ask for?

We were treated to a delicious dinner at Maggiano’s Italian Restaurant at Pointe Orlando. Then we went to the cinema to see ‘Hairspray.’ A featured song “You Can’t Stop The Beat,” was one of our production numbers, where we wore adorable polka dot dresses!

Another exciting event was The Millenia Fine Art Gallery Gala! I particularly enjoy art, and this was the place to find it! There were brilliant paintings, photographs, sculptures, glass designs, and many other works. Thank you for the invitation!.
As the hosting state representative, I was delighted to be interviewed by several news stations like Fox 35, Channel 13 and Orange TV. This fantastic opportunity allowed me to further awareness of The Miss Florida Pageant and The Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Pageant.

I enjoyed every moment of the 10 days I spent at The Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Pageant!. I was able to meet Lauren Nelson our current Miss America and Kellye Cash, Miss America 1987. It was fun spending time with Maria DeSantis Miss America’s Outstanding Teen 2007, who shares a love for vocal performance with me.

I am most grateful to all of the volunteers who made the event a success – the pageant officials, production staff, hostesses, security staff, hotel staff and everyone who devoted their time and energy to the welfare of the contestants.. I will always appreciate their generosity!

The level of commitment and dedication that I witnessed in my fellow Teens to serve their state .inspired me and would inspire anyone. I am proud to have been included among you.
Many Congratulations to Caitlyn. You’ll be a terrific Miss America’s Outstanding Teen.
I love you all!

A Favorite Quote: “Nothing liberates our greatness like the desire to help, the desire to serve.”

To the most wonderful people I’ve ever known - my family and friends, Mrs. Mary Sullivan President and Executive Director of The Miss Florida Pageant, The Board of Directors and volunteers – You have encouraged me from the beginning of this amazing adventure. You’ve treated me with the utmost care and consideration. The Send-Off and Sweet 16 Party you honored me with at Orlando City Hall was phenomenal! Your steadfast support and confidence in me has meant so much to me and will help me in my future endeavors.

Above all, I thank God for His abundant blessings in my life.

I love you,
Alexandra

Please visit my Web sites

2007-07-24T08:55:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Thanks for stopping by and for all of the gracious support you've shown me since I was crowned Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen 2007.

If you'd like more information about me, my platform or the organization I represent please visit my Web sites:

www.aimhighwiththeateam.org

and

www.missfloridaoutstandingteen.org

I am so proud to be representing our wonderful state! Thank you!

The Miss Florida 2007 Pageant

2007-06-30T23:58:00.000-07:00

First of all, I’d like to offer a BIG Congratulations to our new Miss Florida 2007 Kylie Williams. She did a marvelous job in every phase of competition. I’m really looking forward to us spending more time together!

Our theme was ‘Dream Girls’ – and WOW- the production was first rate. The singers, dancers- led by top Broadway choreographer Shea Sullivan- the emcees, stage crew and of course each contestant brought their own special talent to the newly remodeled Mahaffey Theatre in St. Petersburg. The city made us feel so welcome.

Each day was filled with fun things to do .I enjoyed spending time with the contestants and visiting popular sites like the lovely Sunken Gardens. Afterward we enjoyed a delicious lunch provided by Carrabba’s, where we met Mayor Rick Baker..

The Contestants’ Luncheon at The Vinoy Resort, sponsored by Miss Ann Marie Griffin and Mrs. La Voyce Porter, was just perfect. I had the pleasure of meeting our reigning Miss America Lauren Nelson. She is so beautiful, sweet and talented. After I was invited to perform the final night of competition, I was thrilled that I got to introduce her on stage!

The Princess Tea was attended by 91 adorable Princesses and their moms. My mom, sister and I were seated with some very special people like Nicole Johnson Baker Miss America 1999, as well as The Children’s Miracle Network Fla. Champion and Honorary Princess Katie Thai. Not only is she a little doll- she can really sing!

I have the awesome honor to represent our gorgeous state of Florida. This is one of the most exciting times of my life! I must thank the incredible Miss Florida Scholarship Program led by Mrs. Mary Sullivan. I also have the absolute best Teen Directors Keith Smith and Marc Caglia, as well Kendal Jolly and Tom Boyko. I’ve met so many wonderful people who’ve offered their talent, time and encouragement to me. I LOVE YOU ALL!

Hello from Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen

2007-05-28T06:24:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

As the new Miss Florida’s Outstanding Teen, I’d like to thank The Miss Florida Scholarship Pageant for the incredible opportunity they’ve provided me and our Teens in sponsoring The Teen Pageant. I am so grateful for the generosity of The Miss Florida Board, The Miss Florida’s Outstanding Teen Board, The Miss City Beautiful’s Outstanding Teen Board, as well as for our awesome volunteers and sponsors! Their efforts benefit our Teen and Miss contestants in so many ways.

I had an amazing time in St. Petersburg meeting my pageant sisters -some of you again and some for the first time. . I am so glad we got to spend this time together.

As soon as I got home from St. Pete, I dove into weeks of rehearsal for my School’s (Circle Theatre Company ) production of Annie Get Your Gun! presented at The Orlando Repertory Theatre. Our directors, stage crew, orchestra and volunteers provided me and my fellow actors with the utmost professionalism and support, which made for a memorable and exciting Mom’s Day weekend!

The next week was just as busy with a trip to one of my all time favorite stores – Regalia!
Carry and David always make me feel right at home. Afterward, I headed to Chris Martin’s new Copperhead Salon- where they are offer the ultimate in hair care. After that, was a photo-shoot. Gina Lamm is an amazing makeup artist who can do it all. Thank you so much, my wonderful sponsors!

A special thanks to the ladies at The Maile School for the great sign they have in their lobby, congratulating me!

This past week my sister, Adriana and I performed at our annual vocal recital. I sang “Out of My Dreams” from Oklahoma! We all sang in chorus to “Seasons of Love” from Rent, and “Habanera” from Carmen.

This past weekend my sister Adriana Miss Orlando’s Preteen and I were invited to the Grand Opening Celebration of Fun Spot USA, which sponsored ‘A Gift for Teaching.’ It was a blast riding “The World’s Most Extreme” Go-Carts. I think I’ll save the adventure of riding “The World’s Tallest Skycoaster, for next time! Ha!

For now, I’d like to leave you with one of my favorite quotes:

“Goodness is not defined by the outward things we do, but by who we are inside. There was never a great individual who was not also patient and compassionate.”

Welcome to my Online Diary (Blog)

2007-04-23T11:03:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! Thanks for stopping by.

I can't tell you how excited I am to have just been crowned Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen 2007. This is going to be a wonderful year. And I am so honored to be representing the State of Florida.

I am also honored to be among the outstanding young women to have held this title. Each one is a dynamic individual and a real credit to our organization. Like Sierra and Sydney before me - I will be using this Online Diary (or Blog) to record some of my experiences throughout the year.

Please visit often. Looking forward to a wonderful year!!