Giving some props to a former Jill

Here at the Buffalo Pro Cheer Blog, we haven't held back from praising the Jills and Bandettes as well as members of other Buffalo squads for all their hard work. When they leave the squad, we generally respect their privacy as they've left the spotlight but will definitely promote their businesses when they want the attention. We've got alumnae from these squads running their own businesses in Buffalo, NYC, Charlotte, NC, and Kentucky to name a few places. There are also alumnae who kept performing like actress Theresa Joy and singers Ashlee A and Aimee L but there are also some who have made their mark in a big way without fanfare. Jills alum Jenn C (1997-2004) is a co-chair for the Buffalo chapter of the Blondes Vs Brunettes organization and under the leadership of Jenn and co-chair Deanna Bednarz, they've raised over $200,000 for the Alzheimer's Association of Western NY.

Desiree and Chelsea, a 2012 Jills alum who was on hand to support her friend's cause

Saturday, after the Bandits Open Practice and the 716ers game, I stopped by Bottoms Up, a club on Chippewa Avenue in Buffalo. The reason for this wasn't to go clubbing or anything but I was invited to the birthday party that a former Jill was throwing for her mother. It wasn't a typical birthday party though as Desiree (2005 Jills) and her mother are huge on doing a lot for our furry friends. Instead of just a regular party, Desiree had a chinese auction set up and a 50-50 drawing with all the proceeds going to benefit the Buffalo Animal Shelter. When all was said and done, Desiree's party raised well over $1000 to help take care of the animals in Buffalo and to find them good homes. None of this surprises me as since I've gotten to know Desiree the last few years, I've noticed that she's almost like Buffalo's answer to Joanna Krupa, a model/actress who uses her fame to help out animal causes around the world. Desiree may not have the fame Joanna does, but it's great to see people doing their part on behalf of charity, proof that she's not just a pretty face.

Buffalo Pro Cheer Photos of The Week

Desiree and Amanda at last year's postgame party

This week, we take a look at the BvB player with the least time served on the Buffalo Jills. Desiree was only with the squad a few months but that short time was still long enough to make an impact on some children she met at the Taste of Buffalo in 2005, one of whom wanted to be like her when she grew up. Needless to say, that was easily the highlight of her Jills career. Originally from New Orleans, she spent 9 years cheerleading and 2 in gymnastics and is now in her 2nd year with the BvB organization. You can donate to the BvB though Desiree at http://act.alz.org/site/TR/BvB/NY-WesternNewYork?px=6262354&pg=personal&fr_id=2194 Desiree will be one of the ladies you can bid on for a date at the BvB Kickoff Party and Bachelorette Auction on Aug 17th with a date package that includes. among other things, a Swedish Massage at Excuria Salon and Spa, a WNY Sky Diving Gift Certificate, a $100 Gift Certificate to Tempo, and a whole lot more!

Desiree and Danielle at last year's Kickoff party

Alicia, Stephanie C, Lauren K, and Stephanie G at the 1st Annual Dance Fair and Expo

From the Bandettes comes a photo from the 1st Annual Dance Fair and Expo held this past March. Shown posing for the camera are Alicia, Stephanie C, Lauren K, and Stephanie G. With the exception of Stephanie G, who just finished her 3rd and final year on the Bandettes, all these girls were rookies in 2012 and I have a hard time imagining they won't all be returning for 2013 with tryouts being announced in September.
From Jills Ambassador Squad captain Laura comes her 2nd episode, in which she, Courteney, and Jacki talk about 1st date tips. Get involved with the program at http://tellmehowyoureallyfeel.net/