Kaylee Wolfensberger Visits Section 36!

Another visitor to Section 36! Kaylee Wolfensberger is passionate about the healing power of music, is dedicated to fitness, and is the current Miss Montana. I was thrilled she was willing to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more. 

So, let's see what happens when Kaylee Wolfensberger visits Section 36! 

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Montana crown? 
Right after winning I spent time taking pictures and talking with my biggest supporters, my family, friends, and of course my Miss Montana sisters. The moment was so surreal that I didn’t even notice I was one of the last people to leave the theatre! But, the biggest thing I did to celebrate was sleep! Competition week (and honestly the month before) is tiring, I needed a good night's sleep before I hit the ground running as Miss Montana. 

Is there a specific goal you’d like to accomplish during your time as Miss Montana? 

I want to give as many children as possible the opportunity to learn, play, or enjoy music. Music has helped me grow, opened doors for my success, and been a healer in my life. I believe every child deserves that opportunity, and I hope I can be the person who gives them that. 

What did you learn about yourself at the Miss Montana competition that will help you at Miss America? 
I learned that just because I am a younger contestant, does not mean that I am not capable! I am on the younger side of the Miss America age limit, and I struggled with feeling that I have done enough and learned enough to step into this role. Now I know that it doesn’t matter my age, but rather my passion for this program, bringing music to the underfunded, and my determination to take the Miss Montana Organization to new heights. 

How did you select your community service initiative, “Healing Harmonies”? 

At the age of 8 years old, I started learning the piano. And even though I didn’t always enjoy practicing or performing, music was always there for me. I hit some pretty big bumps in the road and I always fell back on music. When I couldn’t express with words how I felt, I was able to sit at the piano and let the notes speak for me. Children living in poverty are more likely to experience traumatic events than their wealthier peers and the effects trauma has on a child’s development can be catastrophic. Music can help regulate emotions and provide positive coping strategies for children. As someone who has experienced the healing benefits of music first hand, I knew I wanted to give children this opportunity as well.

What is your personal fitness routine? 

I am passionate about being physically active for at least 30 minutes each day, while fueling my body with the nutrients it needs to help me thrive. I have discovered that when I prioritize my physical health, I also feel mentally and emotionally balanced. 

If you could be a Disney character for a week, who would you choose? Why? 

I grew up on Disney! Every weekend growing up, me and my Dad would watch a Disney movie, so this is a difficult choice! I would have to say Koda from Brother Bear. I’m known to be quite chatty and a singer around the house (not a great one unfortunately). More than that, I like to think that I’m someone who can make a friend wherever I go, just like Koda. 

You are studying business marketing at Montana State University. Where do you see those studies taking you? 
I want to work in the NFL, specializing in athlete representation and promotion. I grew up with two brothers who loved/played football, so as the only girl, I either learned to love what they loved or I got left behind. I love football season and love MSU Bobcat football even more! I hope to turn my passion into a career! 

If you had an extra ticket to a Pioneer League baseball game, who would you take with you? Why? 
One of my best friends, Brooke! Brooke is a HUGE baseball fan and she even convinced me to take a summer job working at a Pioneer League’s stadium after we graduated high school. She can answer all my questions when I’m confused and she’s sure to hit the concession stand with me! 

Is there a feature or activity during a baseball game that you’d especially like to experience? 

I always liked the 7th inning stretch. Something about everyone standing up and singing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” makes me feel that All-American spirit!

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Agreed. That song is always a good time!

As always, I want to thank Kaylee for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to go with the interview.

I also want to wish her luck when she competes for Miss America! It would be amazing to have another Section 36 Forever wear that crown.

I'm sure you'd like to follow along with Kaylee during her journey. You should be sure to check out her title's Instagram account and website. They're great ways to keep track of everything she has going on, and you'll be sure not to miss anything. 

Thanks again Kaylee! And, good luck!

Faith Johnson Visits Section 36!

Section 36 had another visitor! Faith Johnson is passionate about the theatre, a talented singer, and the current Miss Montana. I was so excited that she wanted to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more.

So, let's see what happens when Faith Johnson visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Montana crown?

I celebrated after my crowning with my family. We went out to eat some super greasy and fried food at a local restaurant. The next day, I really jumped right into event planning. I went to Wyoming for the crowning of their new Miss and Teen 4 days after I was crowned and then to Washington for their crowning as well, a week and a half after! It's been busy so far, but so worth it!

What is something Alexa Baisch did as Miss Montana that you would like to emulate?

Alexa (Allie) was a social media QUEEN when it came to promoting Miss Montana on all the social media platforms. I really hope I can be as active and interesting in my posts as she was with hers. Allie was also a hard worker and put so much effort and time into making her appearances the best and fun for everyone who may have been involved. This is something I strive to do as well, make sure everyone I come in contact with walks away with a smile and feel loved!

What part of the upcoming Miss America competition are you most nervous about?

I am so nervous for the onstage interview/question. I have always prided myself with being an eloquent public speaker, but when it comes to being judged on it, I get so nervous and shaky. I will be practicing this a lot before the competition.

How did you select your Community Service Initiative, “Connecting Hearts through the Arts”?

My CSI comes from my years and years in theatre. I started at the age of 4 and throughout my years I have personally seen the incredible growth and transformation that the arts inspire in people when it comes to empathy, understanding, and compassion for others. I wanted to let my community, and anyone I may come in contact with, know about the incredible benefits of theatre while advocating for more funding in schools for the arts, since it is not prioritized as much as other extracurriculars.

What do you enjoy most about performing your talent on stage?

I honestly just love being on stage, so being able to perform my talent (which is always a vocal performance of some kind) for an audience is so rewarding. My mom always says my voice is a gift and sharing it is such a blessing.

What is your personal fitness routine?

My fitness consists of periodic visits to the gym, but I primarily focus on my mental health/fitness by going to therapy and try to prioritize healthy eating as well. I believe that going to the gym is absolutely something that is important for many people, but if we are not focusing on our mental health and eating habits in addition to the gym, the gym is not going to do much for us.

You are currently studying psychology and sociology. Where do you see those fields taking you?

I am so glad I pursued psychology and sociology. I have alwaysbeen fascinated with "why" people do the things they do, and these two disciplines help understand that a little better. I plan on going to law school in order to enter the criminal side of things (in and out of the courtroom). Psychology and Sociology will help immensely when in this field because it will help me understand why criminals may have acted the way they did and possibly offer solutions for them that does not only include the possibility of prison, but hopefully reform and re-entry into society in a positive way that will reduce recidivism.

If you had an extra ticket to a Pioneer League baseball game, who would you take with you? Why?

I would absolutely take my dad. I grew up going to our local baseball teams' games during the summer. I vividly remember scarfing down peanuts with my dad and watching the game. It was always nice spending time with my dad, so I would take him, as we no longer have a hometown baseball team.

Is there a feature or activity during a baseball game that you’d especially like to experience?

I would LOVE to sing the national anthem for a baseball game. I have been singing for such a long time and it is an absolute privilege to sing for our country and honor our flag with my voice. I think throwing the opening pitch at a major league game would also be awesome if I was unable to sing the anthem.

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Those sound like great goals!

As always, I want to thank Faith for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to go with the interview.

I also want to wish her luck when she competes for Miss America! It would be fantastic to have another Section 36 Forever wear that crown.

I'm sure you'd like to follow along with Faith during her journey. You should be sure to check out her title's Instagram account. It's a great way to keep track of everything she has going on, and you'll be sure not to miss anything. 

Thanks again Faith, and good luck!

Alexa Baisch Visits Section 36!

Photo: Stacie West

Section 36 had another visitor! Alexa Baisch is passionate about eliminating child trafficking, a talented dancer, and the current Miss Montana. I was thrilled that she was willing to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more. 

So, let's see what happens when Alexa Baisch visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Montana crown?

Winning the title of Miss Montana was such a whirlwind! I was crowned on July 2nd so, I was able to celebrate my new title AND the 4th of July by appearing in a parade in my hometown followed by a BBQ with my friends. It was so special to be surrounded by supporters within my community and my friends and family. I can not think of a more perfect way to celebrate!

What has been the biggest surprise about your time as Miss Montana?

So far the biggest surprise has been how much support I have received from people all over the country! I have people reaching out to tell me congratulations and ask for autograph cards from all over the place! One of my largest sponsors is even located in Mississippi! The support and kindness I have received has been incredible and I am so grateful for it!

What did you learn about yourself at the Miss Montana competition that will help you at Miss America?

Each time I have competed for a title within the Miss Montana organization I learn something new! It is incredible how much progress I have made throughout my years in this program! I have improved so much and this year I was given more tips on how to grow and continue to improve in order to feel prepared for Miss America!

How did you select your social impact initiative, “Kids Matter: Eliminating Child Trafficking”?

One of my favorite parts of this organization is the opportunity to advocate for something you care about. During the pandemic some of my friends and I fell into the obsession with true crime podcasts. They constantly discussed cases that were thought to involve human trafficking and the exploitation of men, women, and children. It was exciting to listen to, but they always left me feeling like I needed to do something to help. The more I researched how scary this issue truly is the more I felt called to make a difference. That's how I chose "Kids Matter: Eliminating Child Trafficking". I am so excited to use my title to support organizations who are fighting against human trafficking, increase awareness and share preventative tactics to keep children safe, and help victims receive the help they need. 

As a talented dancer, what do you enjoy most about performing on stage?

I have been dancing since I was very young and performing is one of my favorite things to do! I love dancing, especially tap, and just being on stage brings me so much joy!

If you could be a Disney character for a week, who would you choose? Why?

If I could be a Disney character for a week I think I would have to choose Aurora (Sleeping Beauty). I know I look more like Ariel but, I think I'd rather have three fairy godmothers to grant my wishes than a fish tale! 

You recently graduated from the University of Alabama with a degree in commerce and business administration. Where do you see that degree taking you?

I hope to use my degree to pursue a career in consulting! I was able to work with some phenomenal companies throughout my time at The University of Alabama that inspired me to want to go into this field and help companies function at their highest potential!

If you had an extra ticket to a Pioneer League baseball game, who would you take with you? Why?

My extra ticket would go to my younger sister! We love going to local legion baseball games together and supporting our friends that play! I also love any excuse I can get to spend time with her!

Is there a feature or activity during a baseball game that you’d especially like to experience?

It has always been a dream of mine to throw the celebrity first pitch at a baseball game! Maybe I will add that to my Miss Montana bucket list!

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I hope she gets to cross that off her list! 

As always, I want to thank Alexa for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to go with the interview.

As Alexa continues her time as Miss Montana, I encourage you to check out her title's Website and Instagram. They're great ways to keep track of everything she has going on! 

I also want to wish her the best of luck when she competes for the Miss America crown this winter. It would be wonderful to have another Section 36 visitor wear that crown!

Thanks again Alexa, and good luck!

Jessica Criss Visits Section 36!

Section 36 has another visitor! Jessica Criss is passionate about self defense, a talented singer, and the current Miss Montana. I was excited that she was willing to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more. I was also excited that she was the first visitor from the state of Montana!
 
So, let's see what happens when Jessica Criss visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Montana crown?

I had wanted to be Miss Montana since I first competed as a freshman in college, so I celebrated by video calling my mom and crying with her and the people who had come to the competition to support me!

What has been the most pleasant surprise about your time as Miss Montana?

I have loved how often students love learning about martial arts and how to use it to defend themselves!

What did you learn about yourself at the Miss Montana competition that will help you at Miss America?

Montana is a rough state: from the altitude, to the weather, to the wide expanse of wilderness between towns... Every single contestant at Miss Montana showed that resiliency that only can be brought about in a place like this. I hope to capture that aspect of Montana and bring it with me to Miss America, and every difficult job I have in the future. 

How did you select your social impact initiative, “A Sense of Defense”?

Photo: Danielle Wineman

I grew up in a dojo (or training gym) because both my parents are third degree black belts in Japanese Jiu jitsu. For as long as I can remember, I have been discussing ways to keep myself safe, and training those skills to allow me to protect myself.  It wasn't until I attended college that I realized how few people have the ability to say they can defend themselves. As Miss Montana, I travel the state teaching basic self-defense movements with hopes that every student will continue to learn new ways to keep themselves safe. 

As a talented singer, what do you enjoy most about performing on stage?

In my experience, music has impacted every single person on this earth.  From a method of self expression, to passing along tribal or generational music to connect a culture, or even teaching songs to memorize information in school!  Music seems to have a different impact on each listener.  When I sing, I love being able to connect with people.. maybe even in ways I don't yet understand!

You have a degree in equine science. Where would you like to see that degree take you?

Some day, I would love to open my own therapeutic riding facility! Every single person who would want to experience healing or transformation through the eyes of a horse will be welcome. From running after school programs, to youth camps, regular therapy, or veterans programs... I would love to show my community the same growth that I discovered through working with these beautiful creatures.

If you could be a Disney Character for a week, who would you choose? Why?

I love Disney! So asking which Disney Character I would want to be is difficult... Right now, I think my answer would be Jane!  I love traveling and adventure, so it would be a dream to be able to be in Africa, surrounded by animals, and swinging through the trees!  

If you had an extra ticket to a Pioneer League baseball game, who would you take with you? Why?

I have had the absolute pleasure of making friends with lots of baseball fans... So I think it would be a hard choice between my high school best friend, Mykah, or another Miss Montana contestant, Alissa!  Because of their love of the sport, and hilarious sense of humor, I can imagine that any baseball game with either of them would be fantastic!

Is there a feature or activity at a baseball game that you’d especially like to experience?

It has been said that there is nothing more American than a home baseball game!  So to have a truly American experience, I would love to sing the National Anthem to a packed baseball stadium, standing out on the pitcher's mound!  To top it off, maybe even throw the ceremonial first pitch!?

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Yup. That sounds perfect to me! 

As always, I want to thank Jessica for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to go with the interview.

As Jessica continues her time as Miss Montana, I encourage you to follow her title's Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok accounts. You should also check out the official Miss Montana website. They're great ways to keep track of everything she has going on! 

 
I also want to wish her the best of luck when she competes for the Miss America crown this winter. It would be fantastic to have another Section 36 visitor wear that crown!

Thanks again Jessica, and good luck!