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KLONDIKE
KATES BIOGRAPHIES
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2000
KLONDIKE KATE
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I began singing just shortly after I began talking. The oldest of four children, my father was a very talented singer and my mother palyed the piano. I made my first recording (reel to reel) when I was three.
My family performed as the Sell Family Singers for many years. The highlight for us was performing at the Minnesota State Fair. I sang in 4-H productions, school and community theatre and in church. My parents allowed me to sing solo only after I was able to out sing my father. I began private voice lessons while I was in High School. I also sang in the school choir and was part of a woman's quartet.
As an adult I directed several children's choirs for our church. I enjoyed working with young children and eventually took a job full-time in early childhood and have worked for New Horizon Academy, Kinderberry Hill Child Development Center and Kids Quest. I worked as "Music Judy" for four years with Kinderberry Hill. I currently teach full-time in an Older Infant Program at New Horizon Academy.
Prior to becoming Klondike Kate my friend Martha often encouraged me to try out for the title. I continually told her I had no idea how or where I could try out. In 1997 shortly after the sudden death of my father I came across the Klondike Kates at the Minnesota State Fair. It took me about five minutes to know I wanted to belong to this group. In January of 1998 I made my first attempt to try out for Klondike Kate. I was very surprised that I finished third on my first try. From that night on I became a true student of the Klondike Kates. I looked into a great costume, new songs and followed the Kates to learn all that I could. Finally in January of 2000 on my third attempt, I was named Klondike Kate 2000. This title and the year that followed changed my life forever. I cherish the many memories of my fabulous year. I spent much time traveling to appearances with my Royal Family, my adorable Vulcan Krewe and of course all I learned from the Kates. Best of all in the fall of 2000 I met my now husband Don and we were married in July of 2001. I am now the proud full-time step-parent to Andy(15) and Emily(13).
The Sell Family Singers have grown to include my two new sister-in-laws, my brother-in-law, four talented nieces, two budding nephews and a niece of nephew due in November of 2006. We no longer perform in public as a group, but enjoy singing at family functions with mom leading us on piano.
I still try to perform with the Klondike Kates whenever possible. I love seeing my Vulcans and Royal Family at many community events and look forward each year as we add a new Kate to the Royal Order. My advice to anyone hoping to someday be Kate: Become a student of the Kates, ask a lot of questions and never stop trying. Each attempt to become Kate will make the title of Klondike Kate mean all that much more to you.
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