Wrapping up 2011

December really got away from me between events, family, preparing for the holidays, etc.  I can't believe that the year is almost over.  I'm taking the week off and enjoying what's left of 2011 with my family.  What an incredible year it was, especially on February 19th when I was crowned Mrs. Arizona and this journey began!  People often think that it's the TV appearances, magazine shoots, meeting celebrities, etc that I've done that make this title so special.  It's not about that at all.  Having the title has given me a stronger voice as I bring awareness and work with the charities that are near and dear to my heart.  The opportunity to represent this state and make a difference in the lives of so many is what this title truly means to me.  On March 23, 2012 I will crown the next Mrs. Arizona.  If this is your dream, it's not too late...contact us now.  www.mrsarizonaamerica.com

Wishing you joy, peace and love as 2011 comes to an end and we welcome 2012!

Lori Skutnik
Mrs. Arizona America 2011

Tempe Fantasy of Lights Parade

The Tempe Fantasy of Lights Parade was so much fun last night! Thank you to my local Lexus dealer for the beautiful candy apple red Lexus convertible and thank you to Channel 3 for the air time.  I had a great time riding in the parade with some of my family and Sheriff Joe Arpaio and I had a great time talking and laughing before the parade.  I appreciate the time that he spent with me and my family.  Of course, there was time spent with Santa too!

More November Events...

It has been a busy month, and it's not over yet.  November 8th--I had a wonderful night at the Phoenix Country Club supporting the Ryan House. 100% of the proceeds benefitted the mission of Ryan House, which provides respite and palliative care to children with life-threatening conditions and, as-needed, end-of-life care. It was a pleasure meeting some of the top professional women's tennis players who competed in the Goldwater Women's Tennis Classic (a USTA Pro Circuit Event).

The weekend of November 11th was busy with a photoshoot and I had the opportunity to be part of the mock interview panel for 14 of the Miss Arizona Teen USA and Miss Arizona USA contestants.  WOW!  These young women were articulate, intelligent, poised and beautiful!

November 17th was World Prematurity Day with the March of Dimes.  I spent some time at St. Joseph's Hospital and had the opportunity to speak to many individuals and bring awareness to the March of Dimes.  1 in 8 babies is born premature, and that is the leading cause of infant mortality.

 

Last year when I was Mrs. Gilbert I met this incredible family at the hospital when I was doing rounds with the March of Dimes as a NICU Parent Support Volunteer. I visited mom in the hospital and baby in the NICU. She was born 15 weeks prematurely and weighed 1 lb 11 oz. Last week I was so blessed to be reunited with them. Look at this beautiful, healthy little girl...she just celebrated her 1st Birthday!

November 19--Gilbert Days Parade. This was my second year participating in the parade. Last year as Mrs. Gilbert, and this year as Mrs. Arizona America. Two of my children rode in the parade with me, which was their very first time being in a parade and they were SO excited! Thank you to Superstition Springs Lexus for allowing us to use your red convertible!

After the parade it was time to head to Prescott  for the rest of the weekend where I was a V.I.P guest at the Habitat for Humanity Toolbelts & Tuxedos black tie annual event.  WOW, this was an incredible event!  I was so honored to be asked to be part of this spectacular event.  Six weeks after I won Mrs. Arizona I spent 16 days in West Virginia at the Mrs. America pageant.  While I was there, the 51 contestants had the opportunity to help build a habitat home.  Yes, I hammered, moved siding, painted, etc.  We even met the family that would be moving into the home after it was complete.  Special thanks to Jules Clark of Habitat for Humanity and Steve Bracety, GM of the Prescott Resort & Conference Center (who happens to be a friend of mine from the 26 months we studied together in graduate school).  Thank you Habitat for Humanity for continuing to touch so many lives!

November 20th--I attended the Miss Arizona Teen USA and Miss Arizona USA pageant.  Congratulations to the new titleholders who will represent our state at the 2012 Miss Teen USA and Miss USA pageants.  It was a great night with close friends and sponsors who have stood by my side through this journey.

Diane DeNegris, Me & Kelly Wisniewski

November 22:  Special thanks to Bashas', Channel 12, Mix 96.9, St Vincent de Paul and all of the businesses and families in our wonderful community who donated turkeys and gave cash donations to help make Turkey Tuesday, the nations largest turkey drive, a success! 100% of the proceeds go to the society of St. Vincent de Paul. (Pictured: Paul Short-Bashas' Store Mgr., Mrs. Arizona and Ron Geronimo of Mix 96.9)

November 5, 2011

It was a busy day....myself along with some of the local titleholders who will compete in February attended the Grand Opening of Dr. Rochlin's new Scottsdale office.  She is the presenting sponsor for the upcoming Mrs. Arizona America 2012 pageant!  It was an honor to be there to support such an amazing doctor.

That evening I was invited to attend the Ronald McDonald A McNight to Remember in Wonderland event~A Storybook Evening to benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Phoenix.  I had the opportunity to model thousands of dollars in David Yurman jewelry and one of the bracelets was raffled off to a lucky winner!  In addition to supporting this amazing organization, I was so proud of Debbie Castaldo (Mrs. Arizona America 2002) who was the recipient of the Heart of House Award at the event!

Debbie Castaldo-Mrs. Arizona 2002 & Lori Skutnik-Mrs. Arizona 2011.

Wrapping Up October

On October 27th, myself, along with some of the local title holders who will compete in the 2012 pageant were invited to attend the Dress for Success-Suit for the Stars “A Toast to Triumph" event.  This organization promotes economic independence to disadvantaged women by providing them with professional attire and the skills they need to help them with their career development.  It was such an inspirational evening and I was honored to be there!

 Pictured:  Mrs. East Valley 2012, Lori Skutnik-Mrs. Arizona America 2011 & Mrs. Chandler 2012.

On October 29th I spent the day with the beautiful and talented contestants who were competing in the Miss Maricopa County, Miss Scottsdale and Miss Maricopa's Outstanding Teen Pageant.  We had a wonderful day of rehearsals.  That evening, myself, along with Jennifer Sedler-Miss Arizona America 2011 had the pleasure of emceeing the three hour pageant.  We had so much fun together!  I thought that it was going to be so much easier being on stage as an emcee, but that was not the case.  I still felt the excitement and anxiety as I watched each contestant compete in swimsuit, talent, evening gown and on stage questions.  Even though I wasn't the one competing this time, I knew exactly what they were going through so I couldn't help but feel nervous for them.  At the end of the night, Danielle McBurnett captured the title of Miss Maricopa County; Tiffany Hilburn was crowned Miss Scottsdale & Maddi Esteves took home the title for Miss Maricopa's Outstanding Teen.  Congratulations to the new titleholders and best of luck at the state competition next year!

Jennifer Sedler-Miss Arizona America 2011; Lori Skutnik-Mrs. Arizona America 2011; Danielle McBurnett-Miss Maricopa County 2012.

Channel 15~Modeling for "Dress for Success"

This morning I had the opportunity to be on Channel 15 (Sonoran Living segment) modeling for "Dress for Success." This organization was founded in 1997 as a way to help homeless women and women on welfare get back into the workforce.  If you haven't already bought your tickets, be sure to do so for the annual "Suit for the Stars, A Toast to Triumph" event to be held at FireSky Resort in Scottsdale on October 27, 2011 to help support this great cause!

Pictured:  Jessica Evans, Kirin Christianson & Lori Skutnik.

October 22 & 23, 2011

10/22/11:  Thank you to Jyl Steinback, Exec. Director of Shape Up Arizona, for inviting me to this exciting event on Saturday!  Shape Up Arizona is a wellness event for pre-school age children, teens, families, schools and the entire community that included 100 plus exhibitors and a 5K Run.  It was a hot day, but what a great opportunity to promote health and wellness across the state of Arizona.

10/23/11:  Today was such an emotional day at the HopeKids Walk.  This organization provides ongoing events & activities and a powerful support of community for families who have a child with cancer or some other life-threatening medical condition. Most of the children that I visit at Phoenix Children's Hospital are part of the HopeKids family.  A special thanks to Bridget Asheim, Executive Director of HopeKids, for allowing me to be involved with this amazing charity.  I LOVE HOPEKIDS!

                                                               Me & Logan

Lori Skutnik (Mrs. Arizona America 2011, Bridget Asheim (Executive Director/HopeKids) & Jennifer Sedler (Miss Arizona America 2011).

 

Ohio: Mrs. Arizona America & Mrs. Ohio America 2011

One of the best things about competing at the Mrs. America Pageant was the opportunity to meet 50 other women, one from each state!  As I traveled back east on vacation with my family earlier this month, I could not pass up the opportunity to spend time with my friend, Melanie Miller, Mrs. Ohio America 2011.  After a delicious lunch on the campus of Ashland University we headed to the Salvation Army Kroc Center where Melanie works.  This new facility was the third Kroc Center built in the U.S. and it it gorgeous!  I had the opportunity to tour the facility and meet numerous amazing people who make a difference in the lives of others on a daily basis.  Thank you Melanie, for making me feel welcome!

Beauty of a Bonzer

I had an amazing time last night at the 11th annual "Beauty of A Bonzer" event benefitting Chandler Compadres and other valley charities. Myself, along with some of the incredible ladies who will be competing in the 2012 Mrs. Arizona America pageant sold $12,000 in raffle tickets in just two hours!

We enjoyed a pre-concert party, an Aussie dinner from Outback Steakhouse and watched the live auction bidding on outrageous auction packages!  We were then treated to an evening of music from some of country music's biggest hits "The Frontment."  They included country music icons Richie McDonald (formerly of Lonestar), Larry Stewart (of Restless Heart), and Tim Rushlow (formerly of Little Texas) – with an opening performance by Tyrone Vaughan.   They were amazing!  Thank you to "Outback" for inviting us to this amazing charity event!

                              Mrs. Arizona America 2011 & her husband, Derek.

Phoenix Children's Hospital & Infusion Clinic Visits

Yesterday I had the opportunity to visit so many amazing children at Phoenix Children's Hospital and at the infusion clinic.  Most of the children that I visited are faced with life threatening illnesses, yet they have such positive attitudes and a great outlook on life.  They all truly touched my heart and made me smile.  This little angel was so excited to see me!  She ripped off her pretty flower headband as soon as I offered my crown to her.  It was a little big, but I held it on there for her to wear because she truly is a princess!

Jason Schechterle Scholarship Ball~9/24/11

I was excited to have the opportunity to help at the 5th Annual Jason Schechterle Scholarship Ball this past Saturday!  The event was to benefit the 100 Club of Arizona, who stands behind the men and women who stand behind the badge, and the 100 Club of Arizona Scholarship Program, awarding scholarships to immediate family members of first responders.  It was a great event attended by over 1000 people!  You can read more about Jason's incredible story at:  http://beyondtheflames.com/index.php/about/

Debbie Gaby's Celebrity Catwalk for Charity

What an amazing opportunity it was to be part of Debbie Gaby's 7th Annual Celebrity Catwalk for Charity benefitting UMOM New Day Centers and Children’s Angel Foundation! I was amongst celebrities and talented individuals, all uniting with one goal in mind...CHARITY!

   Backstage with Debbie Gaby (Owner & CEO of Sleep America) getting ready to rock the catwalk!

Me with CNN/HLN News Now anchor, Christi Paul.

Me with 3TV's Terri O., Gina Maravilla, Kaley O'Kelley, Britney Shipp & Carey Pena.

September 20, 2011

 September 20, 2011~This morning I had the opportunity to model on 3TV for Fawn Cheng, personal stylist and image consultant.  She did a segment on ways to fashionably transition your wardrobe from Summer to Fall.  I had a great time and met some wonderful women!  This is a picture of me hanging out at the studio before the show.

Tonight, it was off to "Polka Dots & Popsicles Girl's Night Out" at the San Tan Mall.  The focus of the event was to gather goodies to send boxes to the troops and a portion of tonight's sales went to Soldier's Angels charity.  Thank you to Cristin Graham, owner and designer of Crissy G.'s Designs and Heidi Doyls, owner of Polka Dots & Popsicles for inviting me to this fabulous event!

Heidi Doyle, Me and Cristin Graham.

Registration for the next Mrs. Arizona America Pageant

On September 10th, I had the opportunity to meet with some of the wonderful ladies that will be competing in the next Mrs. Arizona America pageant.  The pageant will take place on February 18, 2012.  If you're interested in competing, please contact us for details through our website- www.mrsarizonaamerica.com.  We will be having workshops over the next several months leading up to the pageant to help you with all of the details.  These workshops will cover paperwork, hair, make-up, fitness, wardrobe, interviews, on-stage presence and much, much more!  If competing for this title has been a dream of yours don't wait, put your dream in action and contact us today!  In February, I will crown a new Mrs. Arizona America...will it be you?

Week of September 5, 2011

What a wonderful week it has been!  I had the opportunity to give four presentations this week to educate high school students on the March of Dimes and help prepare them for the upcoming "March For Babies" event in Casa Grande next month.  They were so receptive and respectful and I'm so appreciative of their willingness to raise money and walk in next month's event!

I also had the opportunity this week to speak with some individuals about their experiences with having premature babies in their family.  This wasn't planned, I just happened to be at the right place at the right time and it was great to share my story and be there to listen to others. 

Today was the first official workshop for the Mrs. Arizona America 2012 pageant.  Although the pageant isn't until February, we are busy helping to prepare next year's contestants for the big event!  The next pageant will be here before you know it!  If you've ever thought about competing for the title, it's not too late to sign-up...we're just beginning.

Tomorrow we reflect on the 10th anniverary of 9/11. For those we lost, for those who gave their lives to help, for those that were there to offer their assistance and to all of the families....our thoughts and prayers are with you, and you will forever be in our hearts. September 11, 2001 changed us as a nation, but we will forever remain strong. God Bless the U.S.A.

 Lori Skutnik~Mrs. Arizona 2011

"Go Gilbert" Magazine

I hope that you all were able to view the August edition of the "202 Magazine."  What a great opportunity I had to spread the word and raise awareness about the March of Dimes.  Yay!!  The four page article that they did on me was much appreciated!

The "Go Gilbert" September issue was just released.  Check out pages 22-23!  Thank you, "Go Gilbert" for giving me the opportunity to share my story! 





http://www.gogilbert.com/issues/2011sep/index.html
Photo:  Karen Fraer
Hair & Make-up: Kelly Wisniewski

Arizona Humane Society Tel-A-Thon Project 121

Each day the Arizona Humane Society takes in an average of 121 animals.  Today, I had the opportunity to help at the annual Tel-A-Thon which was aired lived for 121 minutes on Channel 3.  A big thank you to all of you who donated to "Project 121" and helped support this amazing organization! 

Playing with "Lena," the beautiful Great Dane!  This was right before she headed out to be a celebrity on live TV during the Tel-A-Thon.  She is such a sweetheart!

 

6 Month Mark

Six months ago today one of my biggest dreams became a reality. I've been so blessed by this amazing journey so far and everything that has happened in my life since being crowned Mrs. Arizona America 2011!  However, more importantly, are the opportunities that I've been given to reach out, help others and truly make a difference. After all, that's what holding this title is really about! The sash is beautiful and the crown will always sparkle, but if you're not out there doing your job, then really, what is it all worth?  When I was crowned, I clearly stated that this journey would be about sharing it with the community, and so far, that's exactly what it has been.  I'm so excited for all of my events that are scheduled in the next six months. Unfortunately, there are some that I've had to turn down simply because I can't be three places at once. :0)  I'll continue to travel the state for speaking engagements, to attend events, help various charities, and to bring awareness to the March of Dimes.  I'm only half way through this amazing year as Mrs. Arizona, and the next six months are going to be incredible!

A big THANK YOU to my family and friends who have been there to truly support me!  I couldn't do this without you.

Lori Skutnik
Mrs. Arizona America 2011

202 Magazine

I've been so busy with charity events, photo shoots, interviews and traveling this beautiful state representing the married women of Arizona. 

Be sure to pick up the August edition of the 202 Magazine.  You'll see my name on the cover and a four page story on the inside!

La Tolteca's 3rd Annual Burrito Project~Benefitting St. Vincent de Paul feed the homeless

Today I was invited to help with the 3rd Annual Burrito Project at La Tolteca in Phoenix.  The goal was 3,000 bean and cheese burritos in three hours.  Actual:  3,147 burritos in three hours!We had a great group of volunteers including members from the Army, firefighters, police officers, media and radio employees, Jennifer~Miss Arizona America, and myself.  We had a great time putting our burrito talents to work!

Pictured:  Mr. Cancinos-U.S. Army; Lori Skutnik-Mrs. Arizona America; Lady La 101.5 Radio.

July 15, 2011~Phoenix Children's Hospital with HopeKids

What a wonderful way to spend the morning!  I had the opportunity to visit with so many strong willed, determined children who are fighting cancer, severe heart problems and other life threatening medical conditions at Phoenix Children's Hospital.  The strength that they and their families have is truly amazing!  Thank you to HopeKids for taking me to visit these amazing children and their families.  If you know of a child who has a similar condition, I strongly recommend that you reach out to HopeKids.  "HopeKids provides ongoing events & activities and a powerful, unique support community for families who have a child with cancer or some other life-threatening medical condition." 

National American Miss Pageant

Wow, what a weekend!  I spent it judging the Arizona National American Miss Pageant (NAM).  There were five age divisions with girls ranging from 4-18 years old, and 290 contestants!  I had my work cut out for me, to say the least.  It was amazing to see these talented, smart and poised girls who are so beautiful on the inside and out.  They are starting now by setting goals, striving to be the best that they can be and building a future for themselves.  This was an amazing experience, and I feel so blessed to have been surrounded by so many incredible people this past weekend!  (Pictures with the newly crowned winners coming soon.) 

Pictured:  Me & Corrie Hill Francis~Mrs. Arizona America 2010.