Lori Visker Mrs South Dakota International 2011

I would like to take a moment to to say how much of an honor it was to be Mrs. South Dakota International 2011.

I had so many wonderful opportunities and met so many wonderful people!! I attended many events such as Funski, Go Red for Women Luncheon, Cure kids Cancer Radiothon, Children's Miracle Network Telethon, Princess Ball, and many more. My husband and I were also invited out to stay at the Buffalo Chip in Sturgis for the motorcycle rally. This was fun for Brad and I because riding motorcycles is what we love to do and especially together. This year we got to do a lot of great riding in the Hills as well as attending many Charity events. Rod and all of the staff at the Buffalo Chip was without a doubt the best. We also attended the Mayor's Ride with the Governor of South Dakota Dennis Daugaard.

On December 12, 2011 was the day that I had the honor of being crowned Mrs. South Dakota International 2011. I had no idea from that moment forward where this journey would take me and how much I would learn about myself. This has been an incredible year. The International pageant system has given me so many opportunities that I know will continue after my year is done. They have also given me the opportunity to meet so many different people, in so many different capacities.

Little girls everywhere dream of being chosen to wear a crown and hold such a title. But my life journey to this honor is also marked by another triumph-- my victory over being a victim of domestic Violence This experience helped shaped my platform of domestic violence awareness.

My mother was a victim of domestic violence for over 20 years. When I was 13, my family and I were able to connect with crisis intervention services that could help us. Later, as a wife myself, I endured my own abusive marriage for eight years before reaching out to the Children’s Inn for help. Because of my experiences I am able to share stories of my own struggles, in hopes of inspiring others to overcome their personal hardships.

First of all I would like to thank God for guiding me and giving me the strength to stay true to who I am. He has blessed me with my life and wonderful family. My prayers for all of you are that you will experience the love and joy in life that I have. Always remember God is with you in all that you do.

Brad Visker, you are the love of my life and truly my soul mate. I want to thank you so much for being the kind man you are. You have helped me find myself again. When we first met 6 years ago, I was broken and you have made me a strong, independent woman and I thank you for that. You never walk in front of me or behind me, you walk beside me. We will continue our journey in life together, making new chapters in our story of life. I love you always and forever. You are my everything.

To my family, thank you for all of your support. I have 3 of the most incredible children that a mom could ask for. Jade, you have such a kind soul and are an awesome big sister. Payton, you’re very kind and caring to everyone around you, that is one best thing about you. My little man Chase, you are at a point in life where you are like a sponge and absorb everything around you. I look forward to seeing you learn new things every day. You definitely have your dad’s looks and your mommy’s personality. You are all so smart and very successful in all the things that you do and I know you will be in life as well. I love you and am proud to be your mom.

Throughout my year as Mrs. South Dakota International 2011 I have had the most amazing sponsors. You have helped make this year very successful for me. These are the great sponsors that I had: A-OX Welding Supply, Sioux Falls Kitchen and Bath, Creative Surfaces, The City of Sturgis,The Buffalo Chip, Dr. Mike Wilde, Orthopedic Institute, Envive, Dakota Vision, Tan World, Year Round Brown, AMaVo, Impower, Max Muscle, BK Photography, BJ Photography, Salon Britori, Vanessens Hair Design, Results Persnal Training, LaMode, Miracle of Touch, Elite Travel, as well as a host of family and friends.

To the new Mrs. South Dakota International 2012, the first thing I would say is, stay true to who you are, don’t’ ever stray from that. Everything in life happens for a reason, that is why I always say that I would never change anything in my life, because everything that has happened in my life has led me to where I am today in this very moment. Take advantage of all of the opportunities that will be before you. It is one year but that one year goes by so fast and you don’t want to look back wishing you would have done anything different. Congratulations to you and your family. I wish you nothing but the best and to have a very successful year. God Bless

Lori Visker

Mrs. South Dakota International 2011