April 11-13. Program Weekend Reflections: Oh what grand weekend! I was very blessed to be among a group of wonderful women with extraordinary spirits and talents, who share a common bond. One of my favorite parts of the weekend is when we all first met. I really enjoyed mingling as we set up our table display. I have made lasting friendships in such a short time. Everything about the weekend was suburb: practical workshops, the food, fellowship, and the buddy system. I wanted to pack up my buddy and bring her home. I especially liked the pampering/dressing up session and the Happy Dayz Diner. The Gala was awesome, very well planned. All the ladies were absolutely beautiful. And their platforms all are commendable. I just had a good feeling. It was my forth time as a contestant and second time as a finalist. I had watched myself progressed over time. This time, I was very content. I was totally satisfied with my dress, motto, and speech. I also had a matching back drop and many fans. I was extremely happy when they called my name as Ms. Wheelchair Virginia and was amazed how God had opened another door for me to shine into many more lives across this great state. I would like to thank the Board of Directors, the coordinators, volunteers, WWRC staff, and my sponsors who made possible one of the best achievements of my life.~ Rose ~
April 22nd 2008. My first engagement was in Charlottesville, Va. I spoke to the members of the Evening Out Program, an monthly activity sponsored by Charlottesville Parks & Recreation, for those who have physical challenges. I am a regular member of this group, so you know that they were very excited that I am now Ms. Wheelchair Va. I shared my role and platform as the title holder. I also shared with them how I chose to be a part of the Ms. Wheelchair Va. Org. as an avenue to promote disability awareness, home and abroad. I encouraged them to find their avenue to do the same. They were very eager to hear, and they asked many questions. It was a very nice first engagement!~ Rose ~
April 23rd, 2008. As part of Autism Awareness Month, the Charlottesville NBC29 news asked to do a story on me as Ms. Wheelchair Va. and my poetry students who have autism at Albemarle High School. The students were quite excited, seeing Ms. Rose for the first time in her sash and crown and the TV camera and microphone. I conducted a short version of one of my workshops, where I scatter little pieces of paper on the table with words of every emotion written them. Then the students pick out the emotions they are feeling that day, and begin to write a poem about it. This writing exercise is always successful as I tell them to take the emotions out of their mind/heart and put it on paper. The TV crew was very touched.http://www.nbc29.com/global/story.asp?s=8216722
~ Rose ~
