More Photos from the Arts Rally

Save the Arts in Pennsylvania

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is facing some very difficult budget choices during this time of financial strain. The current budget proposes to eliminate the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, which would make our State the only in the nation without a State office dedicated to the arts and culture. The Citizens for the Arts in Pennsylvania organized a rally at our Capitol this past Tuesday and I was honored to be one of the speakers. Hundreds of people attended and I only hope that we made enough noise (both literally and figuratively) to make a difference. My remarks focused on my experiences over the past decade as a music educator at a community-based arts program. The arts are a vehicle of expression and communication for our most vulnerable citizens including those with low-income, the elderly, and those with special needs. Eliminating state funding makes the arts into a luxury for some instead of an experience accessible to all. Only a nickel a week per taxpayer keeps the arts alive for all Pennsylvanians!

Working Hard!

Just a note of thanks to Carlos Bradley, my AMAZING trainer, for challenging me to be my best.  This former NFL linebacker has been getting me into swimsuit competition shape for the Mrs. United States Pageant.  (though I don't think my skinny little arms will ever look like his!)  Carlos has recently been inducted to the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame, congratulations!!

Annual CVI Ball

On June 6th, Jonathan and I had the pleasure of attending the Cardiovascular Institute of Philadelphia's annual Ball.  Our very dear friend, Georges Perrier of Le Bec Fin, was this year's honoree.  Though it was not an appearance as Mrs. PA (but, of course, I'm always networking for pageant purposes!), it was a great opportunity to contribute to the vital work of promoting cardiovascular health throughout our region.

I'm in the Philadelphia Daily News!

Check out the last portion of Dan Gross's column:

http://www.philly.com/dailynews/columnists/dan_gross/20090611_Dan_Gross__Mike_Tyson__Lahika_Spicer_tie_knot.html

Smith Playhouse

Once a month, I lead Songs and Storytime at the Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse in Fairmount Park, West Philadelphia.  I read several stories to the children and then invite them to sing out loud and make some NOISE with all of the small percussion instruments that I bring along.  Stop by with your young children on the third Wednesday of the month at 10:30am;  it's free and it's fun!

Green With Fashion

Back on April 22, Earth Day, I modeled in the Green with Fashion Show, which was held at FUEL (aka the "Real World House") in Philadelphia.  The event showcased green fashions and accessories while raising funds for the Leukemia Society.  Hundreds of attendees along with the press enjoyed the show with special guests, Gretchen Rossi of the Real Housewives of Orange County, former and current Miss Philadelphias, and Mrs. Montgomery County (now Mrs. PA!)