August - October

This August marked nearly nine months of 16,000 miles in traveling for me! After a whirlwind of a summer, I started my senior year of high school just three months ago. Even though it was back to homework and studying, life did not slow down for me!

August

In August, I made an appearance at the “Celebrity Waiter and Waitresses Dinner” for the Children’s Crisis Nursery at Plaza Frontenac in St. Louis, Missouri. The event was full of excitement; live performances, gourmet dinner and awesome raffle memorabilia (I had my eye on the signed Taylor Swift guitar!). The Children’s Crisis Nursery provides care for more than 7,200 children and more than 6,500 families a year. I am honored to have been a part of such a worthy cause, and am excited to continue to be involved with the Crisis Nursery.

Modeling Ylang-Ylang Jewelery

Later in the month I attended “Your Best You” which was hosted by some of my favorite people! It was great to visit with contestants from all over the country and talk with them about my experience at Miss Teen USA. Thank you to Lisa Forbs, Cindy Faupel-Cummins, Allyce King, Valerie Hayes and Caitlin Corry (just to name a few!) for putting such a great workshop together.


September

Early in September, I attended the Therapeutic Horsemanship Polo Match in Chesterfield, MO. The event benefited the Therapeutic Horsemanship, which is an organization in which those affected by disability can use horse riding as therapy. I had a wonderful time visiting with guests, making crafts with the kids, helping with raffle calling and even competing in a golf cart polo match! Being a part of this event reminded of why I loved being on board with ReCHAI; there really is a powerful human-animal bond we can all benefit from!!  

 

My last Vanbros photo shoot was also in September. It was extremely bitter-sweet shooting the cover for the Miss Missouri USA & Miss Missouri Teen USA program book. It has been an incredible year! Thank you to Will Patterson, Lisa Procter, Sassy Chic, John Vannatta and Mama Janet for making the shoot a success.



I was also able to make a second visit to Shriner’s Hospital in St. Louis, MO. I had a wonderful time making crafts with the kids :) thank you to Shriner’s for having me back. I cannot wait to visit again with Hope on Halloween!

 October

I had a wonderful Senior Homecoming this October! I couldn't ask for a more positive high school experience, or greater friends. I am truly blessed! 

This past Saturday I visited with shoppers and signed autographs at “My Friend’s Wardrobe” in St. Louis, MO. I had a wonderful afternoon with good company :). Thank you to my good friend, Robin Pulcher Meier, for having me out. (pics coming soon!)

Sunday I headed to Overland Park, Kansas for a much over-do hair appointment with Brent Peterson, who will be the 2012 hair sponsor for the new lucky titleholders!

On Monday I head to Shriner’s Hospital with Hope Driskill for a Halloween costume contest :) I cannot wait!!!

Only two more weeks until we find out who the new 2012 Vanbros titleholders are for the great state of Missouri! Ekkkk! It’s coming too fast!

XoXo,
Sydnee

Bahamas Part II: Jimmy Fallon!

I don’t even know where to start! The past month has been absolutely amazing, crazy, and unforgettable.

If there is anything I’ve learned about being a Miss Teen USA state titleholder…name drop whenever possible (just kidding ;-]). After confessing my love for Jimmy Fallon onstage at Miss Teen USA, I was blessed to have been invited back by the Atlantis Resort to meet my obnoxious crush and watch him perform live! I arrived in the Bahamas about two weeks ago, where I had one of the most incredible weekends of my life!

Upon arrival, Audra Mari (Miss North Dakota Teen USA) and I greeted guests at Poseidon’s Throne. We met so many interesting and diverse individuals from various parts of the globe! Afterwards, Audra, her mother, my mother and I joined the President of the Atlantis Resort, George Markantonis and his wife, Sarah, and their son for dinner. The Markantonis family is one of the most interesting families I have ever had the chance to meet. We had a fabulous dinner (delicious conversation AND food)!

Then, Audra and I spent a little time in Club Crush with vacationers. It brought back so many fun Teen USA ’11 memories!!

The next day Audra and I started our day off making Pageant Pals with several adorable girls who were on vacation. We had a blast “sashing” the animals they stuffed and dressed. Then, we headed to the Blue Pool to judge the Pulse Bikini Contest; the winner won a free vacation back to the Atlantis to compete in another swimsuit competition! We also helped out with Cartoon Network’s “Hole in the Wall” show—it was hilarious!

Saturday night was THE night. After a real pageant girl preparation of three hours, I was ready. Before the show, I got the chance to meet the man of my dreams with Audra and her mom, my mom and the Markantonis family. Before they brought him in the room, some of the awesome Atlantis special events staff members explained to me that a mass email had been sent out explaining my story. This also explained why everyone throughout the weekend kept saying, “Well played, Miss MO,” (ha!). Shortly after, with no announcement, Jimmy Fallon walked into the room. At this point, I had an out of body experience.

The Atlantis staff explained to Jimmy (I’d like to think we’re on first name basis, hehe) what I may have mentioned on stage about him at Miss Teen USA. I introduced myself and confessed I have had a huge crush on him for years. Then, I got my hug :). It was nice confirmation to learn he is so down-to-earth!! After the meet and greet, we all headed to his show, which of course was completely hysterical. 

I still can’t believe that I met my dreamboat. I cannot say thank you enough to the Atlantis Resort for making it happen. Thank you as well the Markantonis family for everything—you are all so kind hearted and it was a pleasure getting to know you!

To Cecile Raubenheimer—you are one of the most fascinating individuals I have ever met. I loved getting to know you. Thank you for everything from organizing the trip to being the best hostess in the world!

To Audra and her wonderful mother—I really enjoyed getting to know you both better :). You have very kind hearts and I loved sharing in this experience with you!

I cannot express how blessed and thankful I am for such an incredible year. I never would have guessed last November the year I had ahead of me! As I return back to school for my senior year, my heart and prayers go out to everyone being affected by hurricane Irene, from the Bahamas to the States.


God bless,
Sydnee

Caitlin Corry

I’d like to take a moment to thank a longtime friend of mine, Caitlin Corry.

About four years ago, I won my first title: Miss Gateway St. Louis Outstanding Teen. After eight years of pageantry, I was enthralled to have a crown on my head. Quickly after I won, the Gateway group started to seem more like family to me instead of my “pageant directors” or any type of authority.

I worked closely with the Gateway group all the way until June 2008 when I won the title of Miss Missouri’s Outstanding Teen. That summer, I placed as 4^th Runner-Up to Miss America’s Outstanding Teen 2009. Since then, I have gone on to become Miss Missouri Teen USA 2011 and place as 4^th Runner-Up to Miss Teen USA 2011.

My point is that everyone finds their beginning and their confidence from somewhere. I worked with Caitlin (former Miss MO Teen USA & semi-finalist at Miss Teen USA) on everything from interview to talent; I spent hours three days a week in the gym with her perfecting my dance she choreographed for MAOT. Caitlin also choreographed the current Miss Missouri’s Outstanding Teen’s winning state dance as well.

For anyone looking to find themselves in any area of competition, I highly recommended Caitlin Corry. Whether you need talent advice, to be extremely challenged in interview, makeup tips or help on sculpting your hot bod, call Cait!

Thanks Cait :)

XoXo,
Sydnee

Chick –fil – A Princess Night & the Special Olympics

Since arriving back in Missouri since Miss Teen USA, I’ve kept pretty busy! Here’s where I’ve been and what I’ve been up to!

Two Saturdays ago, I attended the very popular Princess Night at the Chick –fil– A located in Springfield, Missouri. If you have never attended this event, I highly recommend it for aspiring young royalty. There is everything you need to become a real life princess: nail painting, hair dressing, makeovers, and real life knights (they even had swords)! I had the chance to visit with the pretty little ladies who came out for the event with Miss Missouri America, Sydney Friar, and all the lovely Miss Springfield/Branson/Queen City local titleholders.

Thank you so much to Bev Smith for inviting me out for the event, and for the amazing free Chick –fil– A food. :) I’m so happy I could be a part of it!

The following Saturday I traveled to Knob Noster, Missouri for the Special Olympics at the Whiteman AFB. I had a blast cheering on the baseball teams and being a part of the opening ceremonies with the Miss Essence queens, Cydney Boler and Paula VanDalsem Hoffman.

I was so happy to be a part of this event—it was a very meaningful year as the Missouri Special Olympics awarded Whiteman AFB with the Award of Excellence, which is the highest ranked award given by the Special Olympics. Thank you to Vanessa of the Whiteman AFB for having me out!

I can honestly say my schedule has not slowed down since last November. It just keeps getting better :) I am so excited to be heading back to the Bahamas this coming Friday courtesy of the Atlantis Resort to see Jimmy Fallon LIVE!!!! I cannot thank Atlantis enough for this opportunity—I finally get to see my obnoxious crush in person ;-) WOO HOO!!!!!!!!!!

Check back to see how “Bahamas: Take II” goes…
XoXo,
Sydnee

Miss Teen USA 2011: Paradise Island, Bahamas

Thank you Robin & Abbey!

I cannot believe that my journey to Miss Teen USA started almost nine months ago! It has truly been a whirlwind adventure from the night I was crowned Miss Missouri Teen USA 2011, and has continued to change me for the better. I feel so blessed and honored to have represented Missouri in the Bahamas at the fabulous Atlantis Resort. Now let’s relive it!!!

My family and I arrived at the Atlantis two days before official check in to relax and enjoy Paradise Island.  Minutes after departing the plane, my family and I were treated to royal transportation (a limo!!), riding along the clear waters of the beautiful Bahamas all the way to the hotel. I cannot express how amazing the Atlantis is. First of all, you should know I am shark NERD. I consider Shark week (which is currently THIS WEEK) a holiday. Anyways, I will go ahead and say the HUGE slide through the shark tank was one of the highlights of my trip.

Wednesday night, contestants & family gathered at the welcome dinner to celebrate the beginning of a great week. After the welcome dinner, we headed to Club Crush to let loose and dance before competition! Thursday morning, the 2011 Miss Teen USA contestants received a presentation by dermatologistDr. Cheryl Karcher Dr. Cheryl Karcher.Dr. Cheryl Karcher  That afternoon, a few other contestants and myself enjoyed the giant “Climbers Rush” rock wall. I felt pretty impressed with myself after completing both the little wall and the big wall too :).

After a day of fun, it was rehearsal time for the next few days! Representing Missouri Friday night in the presentation show was a blast. Saturday morning I had my personality interview with the judging panel, which was too much fun. Seriously, I don’t think I will ever go through another interview process as fun as my Miss Teen USA interview!

Saturday night I was blessed to advance into the top 15, top 5, and place as fourth runner-up to Miss Teen USA 2011, Danielle Doty—congratulations to Danielle, who I’m sure will have a great year! Competing for the title of Miss Teen USA 2011 was an unforgettable experience—one in which I have grown and learned so much. Thank you to those who have been there to support and encourage me throughout this amazing process. I couldn’t have done it without you!

Thank you to the Vanbros team, who has been a dream to work with. Thank you also to the amazing sponsors who make it possible for the Vanbros girls to be their best self during their reign and at Miss USA and Miss Teen USA.

Myself with Sammy & Jordynn

To the Mueller, Martin, Peterson, Meier & Osseck families: I simply love you! Thank you Sammy, Jordynn and Mrs. Martin for being there!

Last but not least, thank you mom, dad & Taylor. It would be impossible for me to have accomplished what I have without you. I love you.

Thanks Coach Ski & the Muellers
for the beautiful flowers!!!

I am also SO EXCITED to announce there will be a Bahamas trip PART 2 happening this August at the Atlantis…check back to find out what I’ll be up to :).

XoXo,
Sydnee

Countdown Complete: Miss Teen USA 2011

Thank you for all the good luck wishes and for the support throughout my journey to Miss Teen USA 2011! I can’t believe I leave in less than 24 hours for the Atlantis Resort in Paradise Island, Bahamas. I am blessed to represent the great state of Missouri :)

Don’t forget there’s still time to vote for MISSOURI for Miss Photogenic. Click this link: http://www.peopleschoice.com/pca/missteen/gallery.jsp#26 AND feel free to vote NON-STOP!!

Thank you to my amazing directors & the whole Vanbros & Associates team for all they do for their titleholders. You help us grow into the best person we could be! I love you guys!!

See you from paradise. Here we go!!!!

XoXo,

Sydnee

St. Louis Veiled Prophet Parade

This past Sunday I was happy to be a part of the Veiled Prophet parade in downtown St. Louis. Even though the temperature was around 96 degrees, so many people came out to be a part of the historical event anyways! Just another reminder of how alive and well STL is :).

Upon arrival to the Missouri Athletic Club, I was treated to breakfast with several VP members, other Missouri beauty queens, the parade’s grand marshal and even St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay! Afterwards, my awesome escort, Tom, showed me to my sweet ride (thanks for hooking me up VP!).

If you’ve never been to the VP parade, I highly recommend visiting next year. I must say I’ve never seen parade floats quite like these…they were pretty awesome.

Thanks again to VP for having me!

P.S. …

The countdown has really begun…5 days until I leave for the Atlantis Resort in Paradise Island, Bahamas!!!!!! Go to missteenusa.com or http://www.atlantis.com/default.aspx to book your flight now and come along for the ride!!

So excited :)

XoXo,

Sydnee

Vegas, BABY! And my last Vanbros Boot Camp



Mary's Gma ended up being from STL!

This past month has been full of travel, travel, TRAVEL!!! And I loved it :) so let’s play catch-up…


Traveling to Las Vegas, Nevada to watch the 60^th Miss USA pageant was FABULOUS. The Miss Teen USA contestants were treated to several events, all of which were amazing. My family and I arrived in Vegas Thursday night and checked into the MGM Grand. Friday night I attended the “All That Glitters” event where I got to meet all my fellow Miss Teen USA contestants! We got our photos taken by the official Miss Universe photographer and heard Kamie Crawford (Miss Teen USA), Rima Fakih (Miss USA 2010) and Ximena Navarrete (Miss Universe) speak about their reigns.

Saturday afternoon I got the chance to meet several former Miss USA and Miss Universe titleholders, all of whom looked stunning! It was really neat to talk to the women who make this organization so powerful. I even got the chance to shoot with TIME photographer Susan Anderson, which was such a memorable experience.

Saturday night the Teen USA ladies got the chance to walk the red carpet at “True Beauty Rocks the USA”, hosted by Shanna Moakler. The room was filled with former titleholders, enough to make any pageant fan giddy :). After walking the red carpet, there was a fashion show of beautiful Mac Duggal dresses. We ended the night on the dance floor, getting to know the Miss Teen USA class of 2011 a little better! On the way back to the hotel, I stopped at the New York, New York to ride the rollercoaster…and if you haven’t, I HIGHLY recommend it!!!

Sunday was the big day!!! The Miss Universe Organization treated the Miss Teen USA ladies to wonderful seats. Big congrats to my big sis, Hope Driskill, who made the Top 16 and represented MO beautifully! It was awesome being in the audience as our 2011 Miss USA was crowned. Congratulations to the stunning Alyssa Campanella!

After days of shopping and living the glamorous life, I headed back home to St. Louis for a few short days before packing up and heading to Kansas for a Vanbros boot camp!

We had the chance to work with the very talented Valerie Hayes on our interview skills. Thank you, Valerie, you were awesome to work with & so helpful!!! I appreciate you taking time to work with us Vanbros gals ;-).

Also a special thank you to Kim Forsyth who critiqued our walks & stage presentation – good luck with your sure to be beautiful little girl Kim!!!

While at the boot camp, I received my exquisite evening gown earrings, designed by Stefanie Somers. Thank you Stefanie, they are breathtaking!!

The Vanbros girls & I also received some personalized goodies from the Miss Universe Organization, which are amazing!! Thank you Miss U…I love them!!!

I head back to Kansas soon to pick up my evening gown, designed by the amazing Ashley Litton. Thank you Sassy Chic Boutique, I cannot wait to wear it!

Thank you to my amazing director, John Vannatta, for putting this all together. I love you!!

I can easily say June has been one of the best months of my year!

XoXo,

Sydnee

Walk a Hound – Lose a Pound: Community Walk

Just before I left for fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada for Miss USA last week (posting about that soon!), I traveled to Columbia, MO to volunteer for one of my favorite organizations, ReCHAI (the Research Center for Human-Animal Interaction at the University of Missouri-Columbia).

My work started with ReCHAI in 2008 when I became their official spokesperson. Check out the link below to read my story & hear about all the amazing programs that branch from ReCHAI that I’ve been fortunate enough to work with, including Walk a Hound - Lose a Pound: for Seniors, Walk a Hound - Lose a Pound: Community Walk, Reading to Rover, and PALS. http://rechai.missouri.edu/stottlemyre08.htm.

Last Saturday morning I was able to participate in Walk a Hound – Lose a Pound: Community Walk. This program allows anyone to sign up to walk shelter dogs from the Central Missouri Humane Society. This is one of my favorite programs that ReCHAI offers, even though when I leave I want to take EVERY dog home with me! I was able to walk Sundance on a two mile trail…he’s pretty cute ;-) you should go adopt him!!!

Thank you to Assistant Director Charlotte McKenney for always being so pleasant to work with!

XoXo,
Sydnee

Modeling for Allyce King's Game Day Collection

This past Thursday I was honored to model for Allyce King’s Game Day collection! I was joined by two gorgeous gals: Lauren Peterson (Miss MO TEEN USA 2007) and Lacie Hill. If you haven’t checked out Allyce King’s designs and you are a St. Louis Cardinals fan, you have got to see this game day collection! Allyce takes old Cardinals gear and transforms it into custom clothing perfect for a day at the stadium ;-).

We spent the day filming with Rene Knott of KSDK Channel 5, who is hysterical! The segment aired on “This Week in Cardinal Nation” this morning, but for all you St. Louis residents who missed it, it will repeat tonight at 11 pm on KSDK Channel 5!

Thank you to Allyce King for having me back a second time. She is truly talented and awesome to work with!!!



Don’t miss the fashion show of game day clothing tonight at 11 pm!

XoXo,
Sydnee

60th Miss USA Anniversary Weekend Events

Hey guys! Just wanted to let you in on some cool events happening at Miss USA this year and how you can get involved! I am posting the event fliers with all the information on them and below I will give you some links so you can buy tickets and join us! It’s getting so close….yayyy!!

Also, DO NOT forget to vote for Hope to help secure her Top 15 spot at Miss USA: http://www.missuniverse.com/missusa/members/contestants

All That Glitters in Vegas: Miss Teen USA Contestants & Charity Event

Friday, June 17th 7:30pm-10pm

Additional tickets available at: http://allthatglittersinvegas.eventbrite.com/

Cost: $20, also available with cash at the door

Facebook Event Page:  http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=186135671438060

Miss USA Alumni Meet & Greet, Galleria of 60 Years of Beauty

Saturday, June 18th Noon-2pm
For tickets, cash at the door
Cost: $10

True Beauty ROCKS the USA!

Saturday, June 18th

Red Carpet starts 8pm, Doors open at 9pm-Midnight

Additional tickets available at: www.truebeautyrockstheusa.eventbrite.com

Cost: $25, also available with cash at the door

Facebook Event Page: 

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=212028418819832

SEE YOU THERE

XoXo,

Sydnee

Love is Louder!

I am so excited that the 2011 Miss Teen USA contestants & Kamie Crawford, Miss Teen USA 2010, are jumping on board with the “Love is Louder” movement.

“Love is Louder” was started by The Jed Foundation and MTV as a movement of hope for those who have ever felt mistreated, misunderstood, or alone. This movement provides positive messages for those facing adversity or who may be struggling right now with emotional and health issues.

To spread some empowerment, be one of the many individuals who have turned “Love is Louder” into a trend, by tweeting #loveislouder with your message. Or, take a picture with the words “Love is Louder” that conveys your message & upload to www.loveislouder.com.  

Photo by Tom Styrkowicz 

Look for the Miss Teen USA ladies on MTV.com & The Jed Foundation website (http://www.jedfoundation.org/) in the near future to see their photos & messages!

Check out Demi Lovato’s message HERE: http://www.loveislouder.com/demi.html

"Love is Louder”: www.loveislouder.com

The Jed Foundation: http://www.jedfoundation.org/

MTV: http://www.mtv.com/?kw=sem/g/mtv.com/

Love is Louder…than Hateful words. No matter what form they take, whether it's cyber bullying, racism, or rumors, LOVE will always speak LOUDER.