Sunday, November 29, 2009

Reach Out and Read at Barnes & Noble

December 5 is Educator Appreciation Day at Barnes & Noble (B&N). It is also the day B&N will donate a percentage of the sales to CEA's Reach Out and Read book drive. All you have to do is go to any B&N, and give the book fair number 486472 at check out. A portion of the money collected from your purchases will be donated to the campaign.
Educators who show their current CEA membership/ OEA Access cards or school IDs will receive 25 percent off the list price on most books on this day.
Join CEA at the Lennox Barnes & Noble located at 1739 Olentangy River Rd. from 1-3 p.m. and meet Miss Ohio 2009, Erica Gelhaus. Miss Ohio will read to children, take pictures with customers and give autographed photos to the first 200 customers. At 4 p.m., author/illustrator Aaron Zenz will sign his book, The Hiccupotumus, and will participate in story time.
Another great reason to visit the Lennox location on Dec. 5 is the opportunity to win a great gift basket that includes: a $25 B&N gift card, a $25 Build-a-Bear Workshop gift card, a $35 Nurtur (an Aveda salon) gift card and an assortment of cafŽ goodies.
Help us support pediatric literacy by going to your local Barnes & Noble on Dec. 5.

Saturday, November 21, 2009

More Appearances

Bowling with Miss Ohio "Erica Gelhaus"
Pla-Mor Lanes (in Coldwater, OH) will host a benefit for Miss Ohio Erica Gelhaus on Sunday November 22 from 2:00 - 4:30 pm. ($150 per lane)
Every team will get a banner put on their lane with their company name or team name.
Erica will go to each lane and bowl with each team.
Get an autograph team picture with Erica.
9 pin no-tap bowling (9 same as a strike) * music & lights * 50/50 & door prizes
Click here to view event flyer
Be a part of history as we send off our first Mercer County resident ever to compete in the Miss America Pageant!Proceeds from this event go to help Erica cover expenses for the Miss America Pageant!

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From Cincinnati.com:
FAIRFIELD - The Cincinnati VA Medical Center's Mobile Health Unit will be in Fairfield 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday [November 21st]. It will be parked near the Golden Corral Restaurant on Kolb Drive just behind Cincinnati Mills Shopping Center, off of Winton Road.
Workers will assist veterans in enrolling for health care services during a 30-minute process. Veterans should bring a copy of their discharge paper - DD 214 - if they have one.
Miss Ohio 2009, Erica Gelhaus, will greet veterans 1:30-2:30 p.m.

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From WMFD.com:

Salvation Army Hopes To Raise More Money This Holiday originally posted on: 11/17/2009
The Mansfield Salvation Army hopes to raise a good deal of money for those less fortunate during the upcoming holiday season. So, in the coming days, you're probably going to start seeing the Salvation Army's Red Kettle's begin to pop up throughout the community.
The charity organization held its third annual Red Kettle Campaign kickoff breakfast Tuesday. Corps officer Capt. Marcus Jugenheimer hopes several businesses and residents will volunteer their time to the Red Kettle effort, noting the organization is receiving the support of Miss Ohio, Erica Gelhaus, who was Tuesday's keynote speaker.
The Salvation Army also unveiled a picture of the late Earl H. Getz who will have one of the organization's classrooms in the learning zone program named on his behalf for his long time support.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

From Otterbein's Website -- College Profiles

Erica Gelhaus
Senior Vocal Performance major with a minor in Arts Administration
Take it to the crown: After three years of competing in the Miss Ohio Scholarship pageant to earn money to pay for her college education, Erica was crowned Miss Ohio 2009 on June 20. Now, she is sharing her life passions with people all across the state of Ohio as a speaker, entertainer and role model. She is also promoting the importance of her platform, "Turning the Page for Children's Literacy."
"I really wish to spread the importance of children's literacy across the state to all ages because I truly believe reading is the foundation for all learning, and it is so important to help a child build their reading skills to a proficient level while they are still young to enhance all their learning for the duration of their lives," Erica said.
And she is doing just that. Erica was given the opportunity to speak to the Ohio House of Representatives and State Senate about the importance of keeping library funds in the budget prior to the budget bill's passing in July 2009. Erica has spoken to elementary and middle school students about the importance of volunteering and literacy, and has also helped organize a fundraiser to raise money for the Reach Out and Read Program and 2nd and 7 Foundation. She continues to volunteer with the Reach Out and Read Program and serves on its State and Central Ohio Advisory Boards.
As Miss Ohio, Erica helped organize a blood drive at which she made her first blood donation. She performed with the Lima Symphony Orchestra, which "was a dream come true for me because of my vocal performance major. I aspire to be a professional opera singer," she said. She has also attended many fairs and festivals across the State of Ohio and attended both the 2009 Republican and Democrat fundraisers.
"I am learning so much as Miss Ohio through all the people I am able to meet each day. I am gaining so many new perspectives on life because of the stories they share with me," she said.
Take it with you: Erica's future goals include finishing her Otterbein degree and pursuing a master's degree and doctorate in vocal performance. "I would love to be able to perform professionally as an opera singer and eventually teach music at the collegiate level to pass the gift on to others," she said.
Tune in January 30, 2010 at 8 p.m. on TLC to watch Erica compete for the Miss America pageant crown. from The Parkway Independent

Saturday, October 31, 2009

From WMFD.com: Kindergarten, first and second grade students at St. Peter's Elementary School in Mansfield got a rare opportunity to meet a very special person Monday. Miss Ohio 2009, Erica Gelhaus, visited with the students and gave a presentation about how to enjoy reading and how many opportunities there are when you become a good reader. Her platform includes reading literacy.
Miss Ohio said she hopes they remember the day Miss Ohio came to read to them and that it makes a positive impact on them for the rest of their lives.

Saturday, October 17, 2009

From FedSmith.com:
Earl Musick provided the comedy and Miss Ohio 2009 Erica Gelhaus was the master of ceremonies at the Miss West Central Teen and Little Miss Pageant recently.

Staff photo/Katie Yantis: Miss Ohio 2009 Erica Gelhaus signs an autograph for Owen Rindler, 4, son of Scott and Tammy Rindler, Wednesday afternoon at Otterbein-St. Marys

By KATIE YANTIS Staff Writer


ST. MARYS — Residents at Otterbein-St. Marys got to break out of their usual routine to hear from a special visitor Wednesday afternoon.

Miss Ohio 2009 Erica Gelhaus took some time to talk and answer questions with those at Otterbein-St. Marys. Gelhaus is a St. Henry native and is the daughter of Ron and Judy Gelhaus of St. Henry.

Gelhaus is the oldest of six in her family and she said it is a blessing to watch her siblings grow. “I really enjoy my family, they give me the best support,” Gelhaus said.

She also talked about winning the title of Miss Ohio and preparing for the Miss America competition.“I am having so much fun as Miss Ohio, I started competing when I was a senior in high school, I had a goal of going to college and I knew I would have to pay for it,” Gelhaus said. “My guidance counselor said he had a scholarship program for me. I was in the competition three years before I was able to win and I have learned so much about myself, who I am and what I believe in.”

She told the residents that the title has kept her busy with visits.“I spend four to six hours a day driving and have put 15,000 miles on the Miss Ohio car,” Gelhaus said. Gelhaus then discussed the platform she created for the Miss America competition. “My platform is children’s literacy,” Gelhaus said. “Back in high school, I started a program called Athletes Promoting Excellence. My sister inspired my platform, I wanted to change their perspective to a positive experience toward reading.”

She said the program has been in place for five years now and has helped 80 children increase their reading levels. Gelhaus also revealed future plans for her program.“If I have the privilege of winning Miss America, I want to bring children’s literacy to a national level,” Gelhaus said. Miss Ohio showed her appreciation of her family and local community that has continually supported her.“It has been an amazing journey and a blessing,” Gelhaus said. “It’s always such a blessing to come home and give back to the people who have supported me through my journey.”

Gelhaus entertained the residents by showcasing her talent of singing. She sang “There’s a place for us,” from “West Side Story.” She added she will be singing for Miss America — an opera piece cut down into the required 90-second talent portion for the live competition in January.

Otterbein-St. Marys Executive Director Fred Wiswell thanked Gelhaus for her visit and extended his best wishes to her for the Miss America competition.“First and foremost she is such a talented young lady,” Wiswell said. “To all of us she is so refreshing in terms of her ideals, faith in God, life and family. It’s an honor and privilege to have her, she is a special young lady.”

Gelhaus is currently a senior at Otterbein College studying music in hopes of becoming a professional opera singer.

The Miss America competition will air live at 8 p.m. Jan. 30 on TLC.

Saturday, October 10, 2009

From Darke Journal.com:
State representative Jim Zehringer recently held a reception in Columbus - and attending as his special guest was 2009 Miss Ohio (and St. Henry native) Erica Gelhaus.




From the Darke County Daily Advocate:


Miss Ohio visits Greenville -- Staff Report


GREENVILLE - Miss Ohio, Erica Gelhaus returned to Darke County as the special guest speaker for the Darke County Chapter of the Business and Professional Women of Ohio (BPW). Gelhaus will be competing for the Miss America crown in January of 2010 in Las Vegas. She is a graduate of St. Henry and is currently a senior in Music-Vocal Performance at Otterbein College. As a special treat, Erica demonstrated her superb opera singing ability and received at standing ovation at Romer's Catering in Greenville.

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Miss Ohio Erica Gelhaus is coming to Delphos on Oct. 25. She will sign autographs, pose for pictures and help with the Glamour & Goblins 5K from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Delphos soccer fields.
Photo package order forms are available by calling Larry Heiing at 419-302-9624 or e-mail ldheiing6@hotmail.com.
Pre-registration deadline is Friday to get a special Miss Ohio T-shirt signed by Gelhaus.
After the run, Miss Ohio will sing and talk about being Miss Ohio at 1:30 p.m. at St. John’s Church.
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The 54th Miss Clayland Scholarship Program will be held Oct. 17 at 7:30 in Claymont High at Uhrichsville.
Six contestants will vie for the title of Miss Clayland 2010 and for the chance to compete for Miss Ohio in June 2010.
Sherry El Sakr, 23, is a graduate of Cleveland State University with a bachelor’s degree in biology. She is a piano player from Strongsville. Her platform is Heart 101: Promoting Heart Healthy Lifestyles in Our Children.
Kristy Moneysmith, 20, is a student at Ball State University majoring in speech pathology and audiology. She is a vocalist from Union City, and her platform is Mentoring Through Leadership and Role Modeling.
Danielle Henry, 20, is a student at the Tuscarawas Campus of Kent State University at New Philadelphia, majoring in nursing. She is a dancer from Stone Creek. Her platform is Being a Cancer Advocate – Speak Up! She is the daughter of Scott and Debbie Henry.
Ashley Bowman, 19, is a student at Kent State University majoring in political science. The Canton vocalist’s platform is Celebrate the Character in You.
Samantha Hartings, 18, is a student at Coldwater High. She is a dancer from Coldwater. Her platform is Child Literacy Awareness.
The master of ceremonies will be Scott Robinson, director of Tuscarawas County United Way. Erica Gelhaus, Miss Clayland 2009 and Miss Ohio 2009, will serve as co-host of the pageant and will perform. Clara Pearch of Uhrichsville also will perform.
The young women will compete in interview, talent, evening wear and swimsuit for more than $3,200 in scholarships. Advance sale tickets are available at Twin City Pharmacy in Dennison for $10 and $2 will be donated to a children’s literacy project. Tickets also will be available at the door.
For further information, contact Martha Campbell at (740) 922-1644 or by e-mail at campbell.229@osu.edu.Source: Martha Campbell


Sunday, October 04, 2009

Upcoming Miss Ohio Appearances

Meet Miss Ohio 2009, Erica Gelhaus
Sunday, Oct 25 10:30a to 12:30p
at St. John's Annex, Delphos, OH

Price: $16.00 photo package or $10 for autographed picture with Erica
Phone: (419) 302-9624
Age Suitability: None Specified
Tags: meet miss ohio 2009

Meet Miss Ohio 2009, Erica Gelhaus. Photo packages available include picture with Miss Ohio, autograph, Glamour T-shirt, tiara, and 8 x 10 glossy photo of Miss Ohio. Forms available at Tropical Lounge in Delphos or chamber office. E-mail Larry Heiing for forms or information: ldheiing6@hotmail.com

From The Mansfield News Journal:

GOP boss here Monday

Ohio Republican Party Chairman Kevin DeWine will be guest speaker at the Richland County GOP luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday at Ed Pickens' Cafe on Main, 28 N. Main St.
DeWine's talk begins at noon. Miss Ohio 2009 Erica Gelhaus will also be present.

An $8 soup and sandwich buffet will be served.

From Ottawa Senior Center:

A Tea To Treasure with Miss Ohio

It’s teatime with Miss Ohio! Meet and greet Erica Gelhaus for "A Tea to Treasure" at 1 p.m. on Thursday, October 15, at the Ottawa Senior Center. Enjoy an assortment of delectable goodies, like scones, petit fours, cookies, and finger sandwiches, along with tea, of course, and a musical performance by talented songstress Miss Ohio. Erica will sing a selection of standards, patriotic favorites, and her specialty, opera. She will also talk about her charity work for children’s literacy.

Attendees must provide their own teacup and dress in their Sunday best. Also, if you like, take along your favorite teapot. The cost is $7.00 or bring a new children’s book to donate to help Erica fight illiteracy and pay only $5.00. But space is limited, so sign up now at the Senior Center. It will be a tea to treasure!

From Defiance Elks Website:

Elks Make a Difference through Scholarships

Submitted by Webmaster on Sun, 09/27/2009 - 12:18pm

Leading Knight Paul Combs and myself recently attended the The Ohio Elks Fall Reunion in Dublin, Ohio. Jim Nichelson along with other national officers were also in attendance.

While attending the conference, I had the pleasure of being invited to The Ohio Elks Youth Luncheon Program. Jordan Kinn of Hicksville received her $1,000 a year scholarship. Emily Miller of Ayersville also received a $1,000 scholarship. DDGER Tom Fitzpatrick from Findlay and myself were honored to have lunch with these young ladies and their families. Miss Ohio, Erica Gelhaus, also an Elks scholarship recipient, spoke to the youth on setting goals.