The Final Countdown

Time is ticking away and my reign as the 2017 Miss Muscatine is almost over. I find it hard to believe a year has passed since my crowning. On Saturday, eight women will vie for the titles of Miss Muscatine and Miss Pearl City. Though this weekend is bitter-sweet, I cannot wait to see who our new titleholders are! Make sure you get your tickets because this will be a show you don't want to miss!

My year as Miss Muscatine has been a true testament that you can do anything you set your mind to with a full heart and kindness. Strong women are not built in a day rather our strength is full of trial and error, learning and growth, and persistence and determination. With over 30 appearances and hundreds of service hours throughout my year, I have fortified bonds and connections that can never be broken. 2017 taught me to test my boundaries because nothing is impossible. From visiting four elementary schools in Muscatine, numerous community events, running my first half-marathon, and running the Chicago Marathon I have learned I am capable of more than I have ever known. ­­

I have numerous people to thank for this marvelous year because my life has been truly blessed with amazing people. First, I need to thank my sponsors who made this year possible. Jon with 8 One 8 Fitness, thank you for kicking my booty every week and being my much-needed therapist. Michale and Mississippi Pearl Photography, thank you for my beautiful headshots and gown portraits! Heather, Stacy, and Stella, thank you for always making me feel like princess when I came into Le Chic. I must say my gown this year was one for the books! Kodi at Kodi, Inc. I have been blessed to have you in my life, not only as a hair sponsor but as a part of my family. Jessica and Michelle, thank you for being there during every possible situation and for the amazing preparation leading up to Miss Iowa. I had never felt more prepared or more authentically Maddison. To every other person and sponsor who has aided in my year, I am truly blessed to have had your support.

Ashley and Kindra, thank you for putting your heart and soul into this program. From daily check-ins, phone calls, and our shopping trip to Chicago, this year could not have been more enjoyable. You encouraged me to test my boundaries and be the best me possible. For that, I could not be more thankful. Johnna, how has it been a year already??? I have had a blast sharing this year with you and we will be sisters for life. Lydia, I am so proud of you! I have loved watching you grow throughout this year. I cannot wait to see what is next for you.

I need to give an enormous thank you to my family. They have been overly supportive and loving throughout this past year. I was blessed to have family from three different states and numerous locations in Iowa support me at Miss Iowa this past June. No matter what I decide to undertake, my family always seems to make the trek. Mom and Dad, thank you for everything you do. No words exist to exemplify the gratitude and love I have for you. Thank you for allowing my craziness and for always supporting my dreams.

This is not the end for me. I will continue to push and test my limits whether that be in the Miss Iowa Program or with my goal of medical school to become a pediatric nephrologist. Thank you to every single person who has touched my life. You have helped define my goals and aspirations. For the last time, I am your 2017 Miss Muscatine, Maddison Lange.

“You are always stronger than you believe. You have greater powers than you know.” 

It's Time!

Woah! Has time flown! It feels like just yesterday I was crowned Miss Muscatine and now in just three days I leave to have the time of my life during Miss Iowa Week! These past few months have definitely been a journey and a roll-a-coaster making me more ready then ever for the next 10 days. I have cherished every moment and look forward to spending time with the other contestants making memories we will never forget.

The past few weeks have been busier then ever. From packing, exercising, taking online summer classes, dancing, and final preparations, I could not have had more on my calendar. Luckily, I have some pretty amazing people and sponsors in my life to make everything 100 times easier. 

I am thankful for my local Muscatine directors Ashley and Kindra. Ashley had a very long day this past Sunday traveling to Des Moines to help Johnna pack and stopping in Iowa City on her way back to help me pack. Talk about a busy day! Kindra took time out of her busy mother schedule to meet with me before one of my sessions at 8 One 8 Fitness to help mock me. I am truly blessed!

I also need to thank all of my sponsors who have played an active role in preparing me. Jon, thank you so much for making me be in tip-top shape for next week. Your workouts absolutely pushed me to my limits but have been so worth the challenge! Kodi, thank you for always being there for me and making my hair fabulous! I love getting to spend time with you and Miss Olivia! Michale, thank you for the wonderful and gorgeous pictures. I cannot wait to give them out next week on my tear sheets! Le Chic- Stacy, Heather, and Stella, thank you for helping me to feel my best at all times! This wardrobe is killer!

All parts of competition are important are important but one of my favorites has to be talent. I have been blessed with a wonderful dance instructor throughout my entire life who has helped me perfect my dance this year. Brittany, thank you for all the hours you have put in, letting me use the studio, and always supporting me! I could not ever ask for a better dance family! I cannot wait for your wedding!!!

Mr. Ray Porter. I think your name says it all. You have helped me in every aspect of my life. You will always be my Yoda and I your Padawan. It is very scary how well you know me but I love it! And you! Jessica and Michelle, you guys are the bomb! You are always there when I need you and I could not feel this prepared without you! Throughout all my preparation, my family has always been there for me on good days and on bad days. I am blessed with the most supportive and loving family. I have no idea what I would do without them. 

During all this preparation leading up to next week, I decided early this past Spring to take Summer online classes. This definitely ended up being a massive challenge since my first course, Introduction to Marketing, began the week after finals and technically finishes next week during Miss Iowa. I took it on to complete this six week course in four and a half weeks. Can you say holy cow?! But, as of this morning I officially accomplished this! YES! My other two online classes began last week and do not finish until August so thank goodness I have some breathing room. For those who know me, my schedule is never empty and I am a pro at organization as well as time management.

However next week turns out, I am PROUD of all the work I have done and will be the best me I possibly can be. That is all I can do and hope for the best. I will be posting updates through the week on my social media pages. Make sure to follow me to stay in-the-know with everything going on during Miss Iowa Week!

Thank you to everyone for your love and support! HERE WE GO!!!

Save the ONDCP!

At the beginning of May, the White House released the budget for Fiscal Year 2018 with massive cuts to the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) by 95%. The ONDCP "provides critical coordination of the federal response to the drug issue, including the current opioid epidemic, and essential programs such as the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program and Drug Free Communities program. These resources are needed now more than ever."

HIDTA helps federal, state, and local enforcement departments work together in 49 out of the 50 states. The program is crucial for enforcement departments to catch and stop drug dealers with thorough investigations. Furthermore, the Drug Free Communities SupportProgram is the country's biggest drug prevention program funding more than 5,000 local drug prevention community-based coalitions all over the United States.

In March, President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order to establish a committee to handle the opioid epidemic with the ONDCP giving support to the committee. The acting director of the ONDCP, Richard Baum stated, "I have been encouraged by the Administration's commitment to addressing the opioid epidemic, and the President's personal engagement on the issue, both during the campaign and since he was sworn into office. These drastic proposed cuts are frankly heartbreaking, and if carried out, would cause us to lose many good people who contribute greatly to ONDCP's mission and core activities."

The cuts to the ONDCP would not only hinder the efforts already put forth to battle the opioid epidemic but make it almost impossible to continue to provide support and treatment for those fighting addiction. 

Senator Chuck Grassley is opposed to the ONDCP budget cuts. Today he co-signed a letter to the Office of Management and Budget stating, “Healthcare, lost productivity and criminal justice costs associated with addiction are estimated to cost $193 billion annually, whereas every $1 invested in prevention yields a savings of up to $10. Therefore we must invest in effective prevention programs, and continue to support the Drug Free Communities program.  Since its inception, the program has achieved statistically significant reductions in youth drug use. We must also maintain strong law enforcement efforts to address the trafficking of these dangerous substances.  In 2014 alone, the 28 existing [High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas] dismantled 2,880 drug trafficking organizations.”

Take time to send an email to members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, and the White House to express your disagreement with this proposed budget and to save the Office of National Drug Control Policy at this link: 

https://secure3.convio.net/dfk/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=143

We have made so much progress fighting the opioid epidemic recently. Let's not back track with such a important issue!!! 

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/white-house-dismisses-concerns-over-steep-potential-cuts-to-drug-czar-office/

https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=DFF015F5-D2DC-4D6A-929A-BD3D542F63C5

Got Philanthropy?

"I don't think you ever stop giving. I really don't. I think it's an ongoing process. And it's not just about being able to write a check. It's about being able to touch somebody's life."    

~Oprah Winfrey

Whether you know it or not, philanthropy has touched almost everyone's life in some form. This could be in the form of scholarships or gifts. Many institutions such as the University of Iowa are touched daily by philanthropic activities. Philanthropy can be broadly defined as love for humankind. It is derived from the Greek words "philos," which means loving and "anthropos," which means humankind. 

Philanthropy is thousands of years old. Like modern philanthropists, ancient people practiced philanthropy for different reasons. Some reasons were kindness and concern for the common good. Some people used philanthropy as a way to gain recognition, prestige, and power and others saw philanthropy as a way to gain the favor of the gods.

Philanthropy is important because it provides opportunities and has the ability to impact future generations. As a member of the Student Philanthropy Group or PHIL at the University of Iowa, I act as an ambassador on campus. The purpose is to build awareness among students about the importance of private support in enhancing their educational experience at Iowa, and to actively engage current UI students in all aspects of philanthropy.

Today kicks off PHIL's Week at the University of Iowa! This is a week we in PHIL dedicate to raising awareness of philanthropy on campus. Today on campus students and faculty will be wearing stickers that say "I am PHIL" to raise awareness. Tomorrow morning, all PHIL members will "tag" the buildings impacted by philanthropy on campus with yellow caution tape that says PHIL Was Here. Wednesday we are holding a Faces of PHIL event on the T. Anne Cleary Walkway. The Faces of Phil event will show how peoples’ gifts are transforming the University of Iowa! You can take a Polaroid and post it on our Faces of Phil board, “PHIL up” at our food trucks, and sign a “thank you” postcard (or record a “thank you” video message) for some of our generous donors. Join us to celebrate the power of Phil at Iowa!

https://www.facebook.com/events/182459585598312/

Finally, Thursday we are have the Life with PHIL talk featuring Sheri Salata. Come and learn more about Phil from media powerhouse Sheri Salata (1980 B.B.A.), the former executive producer of “The Oprah Winfrey Show” and the former president of Harpo Studios and the Oprah Winfrey Network. Salata’s latest professional venture is the launching of STORY, a media company that produces print, television, film, and digital content. She has been named one of Fast Company’s 100 Most Creative People in Business and one of The Hollywood Reporter’s Women in Entertainment Power 100. 

https://www.facebook.com/events/1909839572586897/

Philanthropy is more than just money. You have the chance and opportunity to impact future generations. Philanthropy is sharing one’s resources but it also delves into one’s passion to create and enhance civil society. So when you have the opportunity to be a philanthropist, DON'T MISS IT!

1,2,3...ABC...

Since I was young, dancing has been an enormous part of my life. Beginning dance at the age of 3, I had no idea how far my love would grow. I began like most little girls do, participating in every form of dance: ballet, tap, jazz, etc. Throughout the years, I found tap dancing to be the most challenging for me and developed a love for it.

Tap Dancing originated in the United States via a mix of percussive dances. Throughout the decades, tap dancing has evolved. During the 1920's tap shoes became known as they are today with the "taps" nailed or screwed onto the shoe at the toes and heels. Shows such as Shuffle Along (1921) helped to give tap dancing its name. 

Tap is unique because it is music and movement. Different countries and regions have varied tap styles such as Irish step dancing and Mexican ballet folkórico. In the United States, tap dancing has undergone a revival. This can be seen in the movie Happy Feet an exceptional tap dancer, the penguin Mumble, stands out from the rest. Today, tapping is a multicultural style that conveys numerous traditions, emotions, and rhythms.

So, why does Tap Dance ROCK?!

1.  Anyone can do it.
2.  The Legacy.
3. It's the Music and the Attraction.
4. It's Noisy!
5. It's Fun Fitness!
6. It makes you Smarter!
7. Improves Balance.
8. It's Everywhere.
9. It's Entertaining!

Tap Dancing has changed my life for the better and is a past-time I never want to give up. I have never encountered something as simple and complex as tap dancing. I relate to it on the most basic, visceral levels, but also the most abstract. Creating music and movement simultaneously allows me to be equally logical and imaginative. That is why moving to music feels so good; moving in order to make music feels even better. If you want to see me perform something I love, attend the 2017 Miss Iowa Scholarship Program on June 22, 23, and 24!

STAY TAPPY!

For the Kids

As a titleholder for the Miss America Scholarship Program, I have spent a lot of time working with the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. Iowa City has been fortunate to be able to build an entirely new children's hospital, the University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital. The new design is meant to ease stress, encourage hope, and provide comfort. As a member of the Student Philanthropy Group at the University of Iowa, I have had the privilege to watch the hospital be built, participate in the opening, and tour the new hospital.

The University of Iowa is Iowa's only:

1. Nationally Ranked Children's Hospital
2. Comprehensive Children's Hospital
3. Level 4 NICU
4. Level 1 Trauma Center for Pediatrics
5. Pediatric Dermatologists
6. Pediatrics Genetics Team
7. Pediatric Renal Dialysis
8. Pediatric Rheumatologists
9. Pediatric Urologists
10. Pediatric Heart, Kidney, Liver, Pancreas, and Blood and Bone Marrow Transplants

During 2015, the University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital had 67, 239 unique patients from every county in Iowa, nearly every state in the United States, and several other countries; more than 170 pediatric doctors, surgeons, and dentists; and more than 500 specially trained pediatric nurses. So when they say you are receiving the best care, they mean it. 

The construction of the new hospital began in the Fall of 2012. Each of the 14 floors has a unique color and icon to make recognition easy. Here are some fun facts about the new hospital:

1. Approximate Cost: $360 MILLION
2. Size: 507,000 Gross Square Feet of New Construction
3. Height: 164 Feet- Making it the Tallest Building in Iowa City
4. 7,557 Light Fixtures
5. 1,168 Doors
6. 24,264 Square Feet of Terrazzo Flooring
7. Underground Parking: 650 Spots
8. 5,100 Tons of Steel
9. 12 Miles of Duct Work
10. 8,324 Outlets

My work with the Children's Miracle Network has helped to make these pristine care facilities possible for so many sick and injured children. As I continue to work hard to support CMN, I hope you will support me. The Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals makes sure that donated funds stay local which means that your donation helps kids and families right here in our community. If you would like to support me and the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, go to:

http://www.missamericaforkids.org/Donate/maddisonlange

 I invite you to join me in touching the lives of sick and injured children today. For the Kids!

No Regrets

Disaster can strike when you least expect it. People pass away too young, tornadoes strike, and financial struggles happen. In today's world, you have to learn to expect the unexpected and take extra steps as a precaution. But, the one thing we learn is to live with no regrets and cherish the time we have with the ones we love. One of my favorite things as well as one of my biggest values is family.

Being the youngest of four children, I have learned and watched my family grow and evolve as new members have entered. A few of my favorite titles are Aunt Maddie (times SEVEN), sister, and daughter. Just like any other family, we have gone through challenges and overcome obstacles such as addiction because we love each other and support each other. 

Addiction affects about one in four families. The impact upon the family can be astronomical and everyone in the family feels the stress of the addiction. The best thing to do is to support the addict and let them know you are there for him or her. You cannot force them to change but you can offer help when he or she wants it. Addiction emphasizes the importance of spending time with family. By having a strong relationship with your family members builds strong ties and can help members fight addiction.

Spending time together as a family such as eating dinner together can help everyone in the family. This invites meaningful conversation and allows parents to really get to know their children. In our house, every night we were not at a sporting event we were sitting down at the table eating together. In fact, Joseph Califano, the founder of the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse stated, “America’s drug problem is not going to be solved in courtrooms or legislative hearing rooms by judges and politicians. It will be solved in living rooms and dining rooms and across kitchen tables — by parents and families.” The connection that is established by spending time as a family is unmatched.

Unfortunately, we never know how much time we have left, never know when the next disaster will strike, and never know when the next challenge will present itself. Therefore, cherishing time with family and building that relationship with family members becomes even more important so we can face those obstacles. So, my message going forward for you is to live life with no regrets and soak up all the time you can with your family. You never know what you have until it is gone.