Community's support vital to Junior Miss program

As a former Sandpoint Junior Miss and local resident, it is my pleasure to invite this community to be a part of something truly wonderful.

For the past 32 years, high school junior girls have had the opportunity to develop character, confidence, and camaraderie through the Sandpoint Junior Miss Program.

More than just a "scholarship program," Junior Miss encourages proficiency in talent, interview, self-expression, fitness, and scholastics.

On program night, participants perform before a panel of judges and an audience of community members. College scholarships are awarded to chosen participants, as well as the title of local Junior Miss.

Although the 2006 program dates are not until May 5-6, the Sandpoint Program is well under way.

This year's 39 participants are hard at work rehearsing the fitness and self-expression routines they will perform in the spring. In addition, the participants dedicate time to mentoring younger girls as part of the affiliated Little Miss Program.

Sandpoint's new program coordinators, co-chairpersons Jenny Mire and Tasha Thomas are working hard to procure the necessary financial and volunteer support.

There is much to be done before May and many more monetary contributions are needed to provide ample scholarship money. It is on this note, that I request your involvement.

As a former participant and program assistant, I personally cannot recommend a more worthwhile endeavor to support.

I have seen countless self-conscious, insecure teenagers blossom into confident, self-assured young women through Junior Miss. Whether your contribution is large or small, your time or your money, your support is essential to our program.

And finally, mark your calendars for May 5-6. These are two evenings at the Panida you will not want to miss!

Kendra Thompson

Hope