Valerie Whitehead Mrs. Iowa International 2009

Farewell

2009-12-31T11:31:00.000-08:00

Wow, where has this year gone. It is only fitting that I write this on the last day of 2009. This has been such an amazing year and certainly unforgettable. I have been very fortunate to have had this opportunity and am grateful for all the doors that have been opened by taking a "leap" of faith into a new adventure! To my family for your unending support I am forever grateful~~you allowed me the chance to capture a dream and I am thankful for your love and support. To all of my friends and especially to all of the new friends I have met through this year your words of encouragement and support are something I will always treasure. My motto this year in speaking to groups for the American Heart Association has been, "Leap, Live, Love, Laugh & Leave a Legacy". This all started with a Leap, I certainly Lived every minute of this great adventure, I am grateful for all the Love that has come my way, I without a doubt truly know how to Laugh (especially at myself~~especially when high heels are involved) and I pray that I have left a Legacy to be proud of!

Val Whitehead Mrs. Iowa International 2009~~~officially signing off:)

And........A New Mrs. Iowa International is CROWNED!

2009-12-31T11:25:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to the beautiful FERYL YORK! Feryl has been crowned Mrs. Iowa International 2010 and is pictured here with her husband Ryan. It is with sincere admiration that I congratulate you on all that you have already done and will continue to do to support Iowa in 2010......a true queen! Make sure and follow Feryl's year www.mrsiowainternational2010.blogspot.com

Miss Iowa USA Pageant

2009-12-31T11:18:00.001-08:00

Ashley Hanson and I after the pageant. Ashley you are an amazing woman and a dear friend! It has been a wonderful year and I can't wait for the rest of our "adventures" to begin!

Truly a priviledge to be part of such an amazing group of women! Left to Right: me, Loni McNertney Mrs. Iowa America 2009, Michelle Berndt Mrs. Iowa United States 2009, Feryl York Mrs. Iowa International 2010 and Laura Diers Johnson Mrs. Iowa America 2008.

Go Red Luncheon December 4, 2009

2009-12-17T08:28:00.001-08:00

What an amazing event! I had the priviledge to be the keynote speaker at this years 6th annual Go Red Luncheon in Sioux City. Over 700 women and men were in attendance! A great fundraiser for such an important organization. To make the day even better my mom had the opportunity to come with me........thanks for being my biggest "cheerleader"!

Go Red Luncheon Sioux City Iowa

2009-12-17T08:24:00.001-08:00

After the luncheon I had the opportunity to do an interview with KTIV news promoting the importance of heart health awareness for women and men. GO RED! Kristie VerMulm, KTIV News Anchor, was the Master of Ceremonies for the event. We had fun doing a heart health "quiz" with the audience, using all the proceeds to benefit the American Heart Association.

Go Red for Women Luncheon, Sioux City Iowa

2009-12-17T08:21:00.001-08:00

I am pictured here with Cindy Paasch and her son. Cindy shared her survivor story at the luncheon. She had a stroke at the age of 35! Despite this she continues to fight each day to get stronger. She is working on her college degree, has an amazing, positive outlook on life and should be an inspiration to us all!

Miss Nebraska USA Pageant - Sunday Oct. 25th

2009-10-27T12:13:00.000-07:00

This was our idea for a last minute road trip. Loni McNertney, Mrs. Iowa America 2009 and I took off for Norfolk, Nebraska to watch the pageant. Despite a few technical difficulties...we arrived home at 2am in one piece, although very tired the next day. Great pageant with some very lovely ladies and also meant many fellow "Mrs.'s" and some great connections. Next time we will remember the basics...like ID:)

Dan Davis Photo Shoot

2009-10-27T11:56:00.000-07:00

WOW is all I can say about this day. What a blast. Thank you to Dan for a wonderful time and also to my dear Ashley Hanson for once again making me look my absolute best. From fair volunteer to "glammed" up this has just been an incredible year...here are just a sample of Dan's great work....

Clay County Fair Volunteer Day

2009-10-27T11:51:00.001-07:00

This post is a little late....wow where does the time go! So was taken on Saturday the 19th of September at the Clay County Fair. My husband I worked at the booth selling the famous "nutty bars". What a gorgeous week! The fair had a record number of attendees and we worked hard! But had fun! Great fundraiser for the local Spencer YMCA. Wishing for a little of the nice sunshine and heat now:)

"Twins Contest" Clay County Fair 2009

2009-09-14T12:01:00.000-07:00

Kelsey Salton, Clay County Fair Queen, myself, and 1st runner-up Hannah Brockshus got our work-out today. We judged in "2's" looking for the group of twins in each category that looked most and least alike, oldest, youngest and so on. Forty-two groups of multiples registered and wow...I don't know how some of those parents keep their kids straight they all deserved a prize! In the end our youngest group was 3 months, oldest was 70 years, and we gave the overall best prize to a couple of ladies that even at age 50 still looked identical. What a fun time!

Clay County Fair 2009

2009-09-14T11:58:00.001-07:00

If you have never attended the Clay County Fair you should make the trip to Spencer...it is worth it! Boasted as one on the world's largest county fairs there is truly something for everyone to see and do. Pictured here with one of the antique tractor collections. By day two of the fair reports say that over 120,000 people had already attended the event.

Mrs. America 2009 Finals Night

2009-09-14T11:32:00.001-07:00

Pictured here with the beautiful Loni McNertney, Mrs. Iowa America 2009. Way to go Loni for winning the fitness award -- quite an accomplishment!

Not only is she beautiful, but an amazing singer...Mrs. World 2008, from Ukraine, was in attendance at the pageant. She will give up her title at the Mrs. World pageant in November.

Mrs. America Pageant 2009

2009-09-14T11:28:00.001-07:00

Tucson, Arizona was the setting for this years' pageant. This photo does not do justice to the beautiful landscaping of the area. Beautiful resort and amazing lightning storms for night time entertainment. Ashley and I made the trip into Tucson on Sunday Sept 6th....despite every possible travel mix-up we made it with luggage intact. Thankfully our trip home was much less exciting.

Iowa's Mrs....2009

2009-08-24T13:21:00.001-07:00

Representing Iowa with PRIDE..

Loni McNertney: Mrs. Iowa America

Val Whitehead: Mrs. Iowa International

Michelle Berndt: Mrs. Iowa United States

Mrs. Iowa America -- Loni's Send-off Party

2009-08-24T13:18:00.000-07:00

What a great group of ladies...we gathered to wish Loni the best as she heads off to the Mrs. America pageant in Tucson, AZ. Good Luck we all know you'll be great!!!

Mrs.' Iowas...

2009-08-14T07:53:00.001-07:00

Celebrating together our exciting year representing the great state of Iowa...This is me and Loni McNertney, Mrs. Iowa America 2009 at the pageant. Good Luck to Loni as she heads off to the national Mrs. America pageant in September!

Miss Kossuth-Winnebago Pageant

2009-08-14T07:49:00.001-07:00

Sunday August 9th at the Miss Kossuth-Winnebago Pageant. Celebrating with the 2009 winner Chandra Peterson, 2008 Miss Kossuth-Winnebago Victoria Newton, Loni McNerney Mrs. Iowa-America and Amanda Hamilton Miss Kossuth-Winnebago's Outstanding Teen 2008.

Day Breakers Kiwanis Presentation

2009-08-14T07:43:00.001-07:00

Monday August 3rd...This morning I got up bright and early to give a presentation to the Spencer Day Breaker Kiwanis Group. We talked about my year as Mrs. Iowa International and most importantly discussed the many ways to get involved with the American Heart Association. I am pictured here with the Chapter President.

Mrs. International Finals Night!

2009-07-23T10:46:00.000-07:00

Ashley you are the BEST. You have a gift, are a true artist! I am so happy that you were able to be a part of this with me, it would not have been the same without you. You are a dear friend and I cannot wait for our next adventure! Thank you with all my heart!

What an incredible week...hard to believe it is over and went by so fast! To all my new friends in the Mrs. International class of 2009 it is a priviledge to know you and be part of such an amazing group of women. To those of you that helped me get here my thanks and appreciation!

Mrs. International Pageant 2009!!! Family Photos

2009-07-23T08:44:00.000-07:00

What can I say...thank you is hardly enough! To my family for all of your love and support through this year and always you are all my treasures and my proudest accomplishment. I love each and everyone of you! To Tucker, soon you will be off on your own....your future is glowing! You have no boundaries and will achieve all you want, I am so proud of you. To Madison, my beauty....you are truly beautiful inside and out! As you start these teen years that pass by so quickly I pray for you to follow every dream you have and never hold back, I know you will accomplish all you set out to do. To Luke, you are still my teddybear....you will soon grow bigger and stronger than me, but never so much so that I can't hug you tight! I know you are my biggest fan and I am thankful that I am so blessed. To Ron, what can I even say....after all these years....you know me more than I know myself and always let me chase my dreams with unending support. Thank you for always believing in me and being a rock for all of us to hold on to. I love you all more than words can say. To my parents....even at 38 years old you are still "mom and dad", always supporting us, there to lend an ear or helping hand. Your love has truly been unconditional and I can only hope that my children will someday be able to say the same. Thank you and I love you!

Mrs. International Day Three: Meet and Greet

2009-07-23T08:21:00.000-07:00

Busy Day of Rehersals, Interviews, quick chance to say Hi to my family as they arrived in Chicago and then dressed up to attend the pageant meet and greet with the Chicago Chamber of Commerce. Lovely supper and then off to bed....time is flying by! Tomorrow (7-17-2009)starts Preliminary Competition....showtime!

Mrs. International Day Two: Appearances

2009-07-23T08:11:00.001-07:00

Today we were out and about for a fun day in the WINDY city of Chicago. We made several stops at local attractions and signed autographs at Water Tower Place. Back to the hotel for a quick supper and then off to rehersal...we all look a little windblown, but no rain so it was a great tour!

Mrs. International Pageant Day One: Orientation!

2009-07-23T08:04:00.000-07:00

Pictured with Mary Richardson, National Mrs. International Director and Laine Berry, Mrs. International 2008.

Getting to know the class of 2009: Pictured here with Mrs. North Carolina and Mrs. Washington.

Send Off Party before Mrs. International

2009-07-23T07:58:00.001-07:00

I work with the BEST people!!! The week before I left for nationals they through me a "princess" party at work...we had a blast and I have so appreciated all of their support this year. Thank you to the staff at Iowa Eye Institute/Spencer Surgery and Laser Center.

IT Works!

2009-06-23T13:52:00.000-07:00

I don't usually endorse any products, but these ladies may be on to something here. I'll keep you posted and if I like the results give you some more information. I am pictured here with the It works crew...more info to follow?!

Left to Right: Pauline, Darlene, me, Jane, Shayanne. Thanks Ladies....

MSRA Ladies Showcase Weekend June 19-21st

2009-06-23T13:44:00.000-07:00

Great turnout at the annual Minnesota Street Rod Association Ladies Showcase. There were at least 40,000 people on the fairgrounds each day for the event. I was there to represent the American Heart Association and talk to the ladies about GO Red.

Class Reunion Mt. Lake, MN

2009-06-23T13:36:00.000-07:00

What a FUN weekend we had! I had the honor of judging the Miss Mt. Lake Pageant on Friday, June 12th. What an amazing group of young ladies. Hats off to the directors for running such a classy pageant. It was a tough job to pick a winner. Saturday the 13th was my 20th class reunion. Wow where does the time go? This is a picture of me andone of my best girlfriends Elise. We grew up neighbors so we have been friends for over 30 years, I think we could still pass for "Charlie's Angels". A special thank you to our host family the Adrian's. Once again they let us stay in their beautiful cabin and the kids had a blast!

Attending the Pageant in St. Paul

2009-06-08T12:47:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my good friend Julie for attending the Mrs. MN, IA and WI America pageant with me. Saturday June 6th was a busy day! After the Heart Walk in Sioux City, IA we made a quick trip to St. Paul, MN for the pageant. Congratulations to the 2009 winners.

Heart Walk Sioux City, IA June 6, 2009

2009-06-08T12:26:00.001-07:00

OK, so the Iowa summer is not cooperating with our outdoor activities this year...On June 6th we attended the heart walk to raise money in memory of our loved ones for the American Heart Association. Over 800 people were registered for this annual event. The pouring rain made us walk a bit faster, but overall we had a great time. I spoke briefly at the event to thank all those brave souls for coming out in the weather and most importantly for supporting a great cause.

Emmetsburg Sprint Triathlon May 23, 2009

2009-06-08T12:05:00.000-07:00

We Did it! Our victory photo after a hard days workout...this is my husband, me and our daughter after the sprint triathlon showing off our numbers. We have a couple more we are planning on doing this summer and with any luck we'll catch a day that doesn't have a 25 mile an hour wind working against us :))

Family "fun" Photos

2009-05-12T14:52:00.000-07:00

Heart Healthy Day at Lincoln

2009-05-12T14:48:00.001-07:00

Fit Kids and Heart Healthy Day at Lincoln

2009-05-12T14:41:00.000-07:00

Today I had the priviledge to talk about being heart healthy and how our hearts work to the third grade classes at Lincoln Elementary School in Spencer, IA. We had a great time. My son helped me demonstrate how our heart pumps blood through our bodies and then we all listened to our heart beat. We discussed ways to be heart healthy. Good job on being such good listeners and having so many great questions.

Our Pride and Joy

2009-04-27T09:25:00.000-07:00

Today our oldest son went to his Junior Prom. They are our pride and joy to say the least. A special thanks to my youngest...even though he was sick he agreed to take a picture for mom.

Fun Facts

2009-04-27T09:17:00.001-07:00

This year I have my 20th Class Reunion. We are also celebrating my hometown's 75th "Pow-Wow". In honor of the event we are finding old photos. You can't read the caption for the newspaper article because the print is too small, but in 1978 it seems I was somewhat of a fortune teller. I stated my future plans were to go to college, become a nurse and get married.

Professional Women's Luncheon Sioux Center, IA

2009-04-27T09:11:00.001-07:00

Today I had the honor of being the speaker for the Sioux Center Chamber of Commerce annual Professional Women's Luncheon. I spoke about the American Heart Association programs and upcoming Heart Walks. I also talked about my busy year as Mrs. Iowa International 2009.

Clay County Fair Queen Pageant

2009-04-27T08:58:00.000-07:00

Tonight I made an appearance at our county fair queen pageant. The Clay County Fair is held every year in September in our hometown of Spencer, IA. This year's new queen is Kelsey Salton. She will go on to compete in the state fair queen competition this summer. Her older sister was the state fair queen a couple of years ago. Congratulations Kelsey!

Photo Shoot

2009-04-05T10:13:00.001-07:00

The Magic of Paula Preston and Brenda Torre

2009-04-05T10:09:00.000-07:00

What an amazing job they did! I am posting some photo shoots from my day with photographer Paula Preston and Brenda Torre who did my makeup and hair. With 110+ choices to choose from it was a hard decision! But for now here are a few of my favorites.

Jump Rope for Heart March 30, 2009

2009-03-31T11:18:00.000-07:00

Over 200 Spencer 4-6th grade students came together in the Spencer Fieldhouse to take part in the 23rd annual Jump Rope for Heart event, an hour-and-a-half long, jump rope event that promotes both cardiovascular health through exercise as well as the efforts of the American Heart Association. Fourth, fifth and sixth grade students raise funds and then participate in the event to generate the donation. Spencer has one of the largest Jump Rope For Heart programs in the state of Iowa. All proceeds go directly to benefit programs of the American Heart Association....a fun and fit night!

Women's Night Out -- March 19, 2009

2009-03-25T16:37:00.000-07:00

I am on the Friends of CAASA committee which is a group of volunteers that help with a variety of events throughout the year, but primarily help plan and organize the annual Women's Night Out fundraising event. Supporting victims of domestic abuse is a cause that is also near to my heart and I find it very rewarding to work with this great group of women. This year's theme was "Celebrating the Everyday Hero: The Power of Kindness". We had a beautiful setting, great speaker, lots of door prizes and of course the naming of the Outstanding Women of the Year. It was a fun night and I can't wait to see what we will come up with for next year.

Friends of CAASA packed the Clay County Regional Events Center hall on Thursday evening for their annual Women’s Night Out fundraising event. As part of the evening CAASA recognized Josephine Gruhn (right) as its Outstanding Woman of 2008. Citing her service as a CAASA board member for a number of years, and her tireless work for victim’s rights, Gruhn was honored for all of her work, including her assistance with fundraisers awareness events, as well as her connection to leg-islators and community leaders in northwest Iowa.

Mrs. Minnesota International Pageant -- March 14 & 15

2009-03-25T16:30:00.000-07:00

Susan Jackson, Mrs. Wisconsin International, Tami Krause, the Newly crowned Mrs. Minnesota International, and me after the pageant. All of the Teen, Miss and Mrs. candidates did a great job and it was fun to meet everyone. The pageant went beautifully and I look forward to spending more time with the Midwest "Mrs" in July at nationals.

Little Miss Shamrocks -- March 8, 2009

2009-03-25T16:28:00.001-07:00

All the newly crowned "Miss Shamrocks" and me at the annual St. Patricks Day festivities in Emmestburg, IA

Special Guest Appearance

2009-03-25T16:26:00.001-07:00

Olivia Myers, Miss Iowa America, and I were guest speakers at the Miss Shamrock Pageant.

Miss Shamrock Pageant Emmetsburg, IA

2009-03-25T16:17:00.000-07:00

The newly crowned Miss Shamrock, Justine Wagner, of Emmetsburg, IA and myself at the annual pageant.

Press Release Briar Cliff College

2009-03-07T17:39:00.000-08:00

March 2, 2009
Briar Cliff University Nursing Student Association to Host Mrs. Iowa
SIOUX CITY, Iowa – The Briar Cliff University Nursing Student Association will host Mrs. Iowa 2009, Val Whitehead, on Wednesday, March 4 at 7 p.m. in the Saint Francis Center in the Stark Student Center on campus. The event is free and open to the public.
A Spencer, Iowa native, Mrs. Whitehead is a registered nurse and holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. During her reign as Mrs. Iowa 2009, she is promoting the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women Campaign, a movement dedicated to fighting heart disease among women. Mrs. Whitehead is the mother of three children and a community volunteer.
Briar Cliff’s Nursing Student Association, a student-led organization open to all Briar Cliff pre-nursing and nursing students, promotes the development of skills needed to be responsible and accountable members of the nursing profession. The organization also advocates for high quality evidence-based, affordable and accessible health care and sponsors a number of annual fundraising and community involvement activities.
Briar Cliff University is a Catholic institution with an enrollment of more than 1,100 students from 24 states and four countries. Students are educated in the Franciscan tradition of excellence in the liberal arts and career preparation in an environment of care and compassion. For more information, please visit briarcliff.edu.

Planning Committee for Briar Cliff

2009-03-06T07:20:00.001-08:00

Destiny Miller and her fellow nursing officers organized this event at Briar Cliff College in Sioux City, IA. They did a great job and we had over 100 students attend the event. I was able to talk about my experience as Mrs. Iowa, how I have been involved with the American Heart Association, and also talk about the Go Red for Women campaign. We had a great time and thanks for taking me out to Minerva's to eat--that was a treat. Good luck to all those future nurses as they finish up their last couple of months.

Speaking at Briar Cliff College in Sioux City, IA

2009-03-06T07:18:00.001-08:00

Planning Committee for the Red Heart Affair

2009-03-06T07:15:00.000-08:00

They had a beautiful supper. The committee did a great job. I had the priviledge to speak at the event and tell about my year. This event was a fundraiser for the upcoming Plymouth County Heart Walk in LeMars.

LeMars Red Heart Affair

2009-03-06T07:13:00.001-08:00

Daphne Christensen and Val at Go Girl Go Red

2009-03-06T07:06:00.001-08:00

This is Daphne Christensen. She came to support the event, but is also the President and Founder of the non-profit organization DylansSmile.

www.dylanssmile.com

She had ordered her fabulous red shoes from Gotham City Online and we were "published" on their blog site.

Check it out

http://blog.gothamcityonline.com

Go Girl -- Go Red

2009-03-06T07:01:00.000-08:00

Kim Price and her group in West Des Moines did a great deal of work setting up a fundraising event for the American Heart Association Go Red for Women. The event was held Friday, February 27, 2009 in West Des Moines. They had a great turn out of family and friends that helped to support a the cause. I was on hand to help explain information related to Go Red and also get women registered with the Go Red campaign.

Relaxation and Heart Health Lunch

2009-02-19T13:34:00.001-08:00

Participants at the lunch had many opportunities to learn about improving their health. At this station the physical therapists helped women learn about the benefits of Yoga and Pilates.

Spencer Hospital Relaxation and Heart Health Lunch

2009-02-19T13:31:00.000-08:00

Greater Sioux Community Health Center Health Fair

2009-02-19T13:27:00.000-08:00

Love Your Self-Love Your Health

2009-02-19T13:19:00.000-08:00

My friend, Julie Beehler, is a Nurse Practitioner at the clinic. The staff was on hand all morning at the health fair to offer attendees free cardiovascular screening and many other free services in honor of Valentine's Day and Heart Month.

Go Red Night at the Iowa Energy Basketball Game

2009-02-13T12:12:00.000-08:00

Iowa Energy Basketball Game

2009-02-12T20:51:00.000-08:00

I have this recorded, so if I can get the video to upload I will post it. I had the priviledge of speaking on behalf of Go Red for Women at half-time of the game. As you can see our day was busy, but my husband and I had a great time meeting so many people from the American Heart Association and also I was honored to be a part of the activites. Although we were tired by the end of the day having left home at 4 a.m., it was well worth our trip.

Heart on the Hill Day at the Capitol

2009-02-12T20:35:00.000-08:00

Today Ron and I were able to meet with Representative Mike May. We spent a great deal of time discussing the American Heart Association; their mission and goals for this year. Representative May was kind enough to give us a tour and take some pictures. We were also in touch with Senator Johnson and hope to spend more time with him at a later date.

Iowa Energy Basketball Game Go Red for Women Night

2009-02-12T20:10:00.000-08:00

As Always...Mom and Dad Supporting my cause

2009-02-08T14:14:00.001-08:00

You are never to old to appreciate the love and support of your parents! This is my chance to publically thank my parents for all that they do for me and our family. Their strong faith, marriage (over 40 years now) and unending support has been a rock for our whole family (I know my two brothers would agree).

Faith- Based Go Red

2009-02-08T14:10:00.003-08:00

Discussing the American Heart Association handouts at the event.

Faith-Based Go Red Event

2009-02-08T14:04:00.001-08:00

Today I assisted with blood pressure checks at Trinity Lutheran Church in Spencer, IA. I checked blood pressures and had many women get signed up with Go Red.

National Wear Red Day

2009-02-08T13:59:00.001-08:00

Buena Vista Regional Medical Center in Storm Lake Iowa helped support the American Heart Association and Go Red for Women by having their employees wear red on February 6th, National Wear Red Day. I was on site in the afternoon to say "hi" to my former co-workers. We had a good turnout at the event and registered many new women to Go Red. Thanks BVRMC!

Go Red for Women Casting Call Des Moines

2009-02-08T13:55:00.000-08:00

The Alpha Phi Sorority Sisters from Drake College assisted at the casting call.

Go Red for Women Casting Call - Des Moines

2009-02-08T13:51:00.000-08:00

February 5th was the 2009 casting call for Go Red for Women in Des Moines. I am pictured with Haley Armstrong, Marketing Director AHA, and Kris Fettkether, Communications Director AHA Des Moines. There was a great turnout and many women shared their stories of surviving cardiovascular disease and/or making choices to live heart healthy. Maybe we will see some of our local faces on the national Go Red site next year!

Media Release

2009-02-02T13:13:00.000-08:00

1/29/09 - Mrs. Iowa To Make Appearance In Sioux Center - Click here to print this information
Mrs. Iowa 2009 will make an appearance at a heart health fair for women on Valentine's Day in Sioux Center. "Love Yourself Love Your Health!" is the theme of the Valentine's Day Heart Health Fair for Women planned by the Greater Sioux Community Health Center. Val Whitehead, Mrs. Iowa 2009 a nurse, wife, and mother of three from Spencer who has selected a platform of working with the American Heart Association's "Go Red For Women " program to raise awareness of women's heart disease. Whitehead will assist with cardiovascular risk screenings throughout the morning and give a special presentation at 9:30 a.m. This women's heart health fair will be on Saturday, February 14 from 7:00 to 11:00 a.m. at The Greater Sioux Community Health Center at 338 First Avenue NW, across the street from the City Hall. Area women are encouraged to bring a friend, neighbor, mother, sister or daughter to enjoy the event. Staff and volunteers will be on hand to welcome all area women to participate and learn about heart health care and heart disease in women. FREE cholesterol screenings will be available to the first 100 women. Additionally, a variety of other free screenings will be offered to help assess women's heart and lung health including: Free "Smokalyzer" lung screening, free Dermascan skin screening, free cardio-vascular risk screening, free nutrition and weight consultation, and free blood pressure checks.The Greater Sioux Community Health Center is a private, not-for-profit, consumer-directed healthcare institution with a mission to provide affordable primary healthcare services to all residents of northwest Iowa and the greater Sioux County area.SVA RELEASE 1-29-09 16:11
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Go Red for Women - National Heart Month

2009-01-30T15:48:00.000-08:00

February is almost upon us and it should be an exciting and busy time! I will be very busy working throughout the state to promote Go Red for Women, celebrating and educating others about being Heart Healthy. If you see me at one of the following events make sure to say Hi!

February 5th Open Casting Call for Go Red for Women at Jordan Creek Mall, Des Moines, IA
February 6th National Wear Red Day - make sure you do!
February 6th Meet and Greet Presentation at BV Regional Medical Center, Storm Lake, IA
February 7th Hollywood Nights Heart Gala, Sioux City, IA
February 8th Faith-based Go Red for Women Presentation, Spencer, IA
February 11th Heart on the Hill Day at the Capitol, Des Moines, IA
February 11th Go Red for Women Night at the Iowa Energy Basketball Game, Des Moines
February 14th Women's Health Fair with KTIV Channel 4 coverage, Sioux Center, IA
February 19th Heart Health Luncheon, Spencer Hospital, Spencer, IA
February 28th Fundraiser for Plymouth -Sioux County Heart Walk, LeMars, IA
February 28th Heart Ball, Des Moines, IA
March 4th Go Red/AHA Presentation to Students/Public at Briar Cliff College, Sioux City

***I'll post pictures after each event, hope to see you there***

Go Red for Women Minnesota Events

2009-01-22T14:48:00.001-08:00

I'll be attending the Iowa events, but Go Red for Women is a national campaign so I wanted to let everyone know about the upcoming Minnesota events. On February 6th, National Wear Red Day, will be celebrated at the Minnesota State Capitol and also at the open casting call at Mall of America. Both events will be working to continue to spread the important message of women's heart health. I am pictured here with Susan Cahoon, Executive Director Twin Cities Division, and Shannon Forney, Administrative Assistant for Corporate Events, both from the Minneapolis American Heart Association. I thank both of these ladies for all of their help and support. It was a great day.

Minneapolis Women's Expo 2009

2009-01-22T14:41:00.000-08:00

Mrs. Ramsey County Minnesota, Jennifer Olson, and I worked at the American Heart Association's Go Red Booth at the Expo. We had a great time - there were hundreds of women in attendance and I even got to sneak away for a bit to watch Edyta (my favorite) and Alec from Dancing with the Stars dance at the expo.

Body Design by Mike

2009-01-22T14:37:00.000-08:00

What a great day this was. I had the priviledge of training with Mike Mauney of Body Design by Mike in North Carolina. Mike has been in the business for over 20 years and his many photos of previous pageant winners is extremely impressive. We had a fun time and Mike knows his stuff! I'm excited to be working with him.

Just for Fun...Madi and Me

2009-01-11T17:50:00.001-08:00

My daughter and I had a chance to take some pictures together for a photographers website. We had a blast "modeling" for a day.

HyNoon Kiwanis Meeting

2009-01-11T17:46:00.000-08:00

I am pictured with Tom Nelson, owner of Nelson Jewelry and President of the Hy-Noon Kiwanis. I was invited to give a talk on my experience as Mrs. Iowa International 2009 and speak on the Go Red for Women campaign.

Finish Line

2009-01-11T17:44:00.000-08:00

Can you say "I MADE IT---YES"

Biking Portion of the Sprint Triathlon Summer 08

2009-01-11T17:38:00.000-08:00

I had to put at least a couple of pictures of the infamous triathlon to prove I was there! Although if you are looking for my time make sure to check out the second page of finishers!

Sioux City Iowa Go Red Luncheon

2009-01-11T17:29:00.000-08:00

This is Linda Wadedo-Jochims and myself after the Sioux City Iowa Go Red for Women Luncheon. They had a great turnout at the event with over 700 attendees. Veronica Horton, event chair, shared a very touching story of the loss of her daughter. I look forward to seeing the Siouxland group at the Heart Gala in February

Click on site to view KTIV Interview

2008-12-27T10:18:00.000-08:00

http://www.ktiv.com/global/video/popup/pop_playerLaunch.asp?vt1=v&clipFormat=flv&clipId1=3278964&at1=News&h1=Siouxland woman fights not only for Mrs. Iowa title but for heart disease

KTIV News Write-up for Mrs. Iowa

2008-12-27T10:07:00.000-08:00

By Allissa HopkinsSiouxland woman fights not only for Mrs. Iowa title but for heart disease

Siouxland woman fights not only for Mrs. Iowa title but for heart disease
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KTIV) - Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in Iowa, affecting one out of every three adults.
However, one Siouxland woman is trying to lighten up that statistic, and she has even gone as far as entering a beauty pageant and making the American Heart Association her platform.
While the Spencer native did win the title of Mrs. Iowa in September, the fight has just begun to educate others about importance of knowing the facts about heart disease.
Val Whitehead is a wife, mother of three, a nurse and now the reining 2009 Mrs. Iowa.
"If you would've asked me a year ago if I would've seen myself doing this, I would've probably laughed," said Val Whitehead, Mrs. Iowa.
However, now her title of Mrs. Iowa is more than a laughing matter, it's become her passion. And, she's using that passion to help in the prevention of the thing that kills many Americans every year, heart disease.
"We forget that cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women, and statistically Iowa follows the national trend. So, it is the number one killer. And, I think we get so busy taking care of everybody else that we forget about those things," said Whitehead.
It's not just being a nurse that has given her an up close look at the disease.
"We definitely have a family history on both sides," said Mrs. Iowa.
After her mother and father in-law dying of heart disease in their 60's, her sister in-law having her 2nd heart attack at 44, her mother going through her heart surgery and her husband having high cholesterol, you can say Val has a strong connection to her platform. From that firsthand experience, she thought a beauty pageant might help her to education others about the importance of doing the little things in order to be heart-healthy.
"I really felt like it's not just about can I walk in an evening gown on stage. It's more about what can I do to make a difference in somebody's life," said Whitehead.
With only a couple months under her belt, she's enjoyed her time so far.
"It's really been a positive experience and I'm glad I did it. I was nervous of what I was getting in to, but I think someday I'll look back and think this is was a really great year," said Whitehead.
Val Whitehead will compete in the nation pageant for the title of Mrs. International this summer in Chicago.

Spencer woman named Mrs. Iowa International

2008-12-21T13:51:00.000-08:00

This was posted in our local paper the Spencer Daily Reporter...I made the most read articles of the week!

Valerie Whitehead, 37, of Spencer, was crowned Mrs. Iowa International this month and will go on to compete for the title of Mrs. International 2009 during the final competition in Chicago, July 17- 18, 2009.
"Being named Mrs. Iowa International has already been an amazing experience," said Whitehead. "I've met wonderful people and have been supported on this journey in ways I never expected. It has been fun, exciting, and most importantly, it has given me new opportunities to support my charitable platform."
Whitehead is a nurse and supervisor for the Iowa Eye Institute in Spencer, a mother of three children, and an active member and volunteer for several area organizations.
She is sponsored by Community State Bank, Iowa Eye Institute, P.C., Dr. Phelps DDS and Winning Crown Boutique.
Whitehead will spend her year as Mrs. Iowa International supporting her platform the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women campaign, a movement dedicated to fighting heart disease among women. In this role, she plans to speak at area events promoting women's health and supporting additional Go Red events through volunteerism.
International Pageants, Inc. also supports the Go Red for Women program through a national alliance formed in 2008 committing volunteer and financial support.
The Mrs. International Pageant is owned and operated by International Pageants, Inc., which also operates Miss International and Miss Teen International pageants. It is the only platform-based pageant system dedicated to highlighting women's accomplishments through community support.
Mrs. International showcases married women 21 to 56 years old and features three categories of competition, including interview, evening gown and fitness wear. For more information, visit www.mrsinternational.com.

Interview with Ryan on local Channel KICD Radio

2008-12-21T13:47:00.000-08:00

I had the chance to do an interview about the pageant and my platform The American Heart Association's Go Red for Women Campaign. Here are some of the notes that were posted on their website.

(12-16-08) Mrs. International Winner
(Spencer, IA)--A Spencer woman has been named Mrs. Iowa International. Valerie Whitehead says she was at a sprint triathlon and was running along side of a 72-year-old man who said to her "isn't it great we are all doing something so healthy for our hearts when it sort of clicked for her concerning Mrs. International." Whitehead's platform is the Go Red for Women campaign which is a part of Mrs. International. Whitehead says she will be speaking locally and statewide to spread awareness. The Mrs. International Pageant takes place July 17th and 18th in Chicago.

Merry Christmas 2008

2008-12-21T13:15:00.000-08:00

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Blessed New Year from our family.

Photo Shoot Mrs. Iowa International 2009

2008-12-21T13:12:00.000-08:00

Speaking at Women's Expo VIP Night

2008-12-04T20:03:00.001-08:00

Nearly 300 women were in attendance for the VIP night at the Women's Expo in Spencer, Iowa. I had the priviledge to open the program. Some great make overs followed and we closed the night with our keynote speaker.

2008-12-04T19:58:00.000-08:00

As Mrs. Iowa International 2009 I am working to support the American Heart Association Go Red for Women campaign. We had a great turnout at the Northwest Iowa Women's Expo. Over 200 women registered.

Mrs. Iowa International 2009

2008-12-04T12:51:00.000-08:00