Look to the future
By Keon Pitter


On March 21- 27, girls from all over New York state will compete for the title of New York's Junior Miss. All the girls who participate on a local level must be:
  • a U.S. citizen
  • seniors in high school

Winners of the local competitions will then go to the national competition in Mobile, Ala. It's the oldest and largest scholarship program of its kind. This non-profit organization is part of a nationwide scholarship competition, which awards over $5 million annually to qualified young women planning to attend college.

To inform students of the program:

  • information is sent to guidance counselors of high schools around the state
  • information can be found on the Internet
  • past contestants share their experience with others
  • winners of the local competition go to nationals, which is nationally televised

According to Susan Makai, the NYS Junior Miss is not a beauty pageant; the local competition is run by volunteers who help well-rounded young women who have excelled in the classroom, been active in extracurricular activities, developed a performing talent, asserted leadership among peers and have a commitment to their community through the competition process.

Only 22 girls participate in the program. Past participates include Deborah Messing star of Will and Grace, and Martha Stewart. The winners are selected by participating in the following categories:

  • scholastics aptitude – 20 percent
  • judges interview -- 25 percent
  • talent -- 25 percent
  • poise -- 15 percent
  • physical fitness -- 15 percent

Buffalo State College got involved with the program five year ago. Makai, state chairman, said BSC has the best facility to accommodate the program. Therefore, the finals will be held at Rockwell Hall Auditorium on March 26 and 27 at 7:30 p.m. For ticket information call the Rockwell Hall box office at (716) 878-3005.

Ticket prices:

  • Friday: $15
  • Saturday: $20
  • two-day package: $25

“Every young woman should have an opportunity to be a part of this program, as a senior in high school it's a wonderful experience that she'll never forget,” said Makai.

The National Junior Miss Scholarship Competition is sponsored by Coca-Cola North America, Tyson Foods Inc., Bally Total Fitness, and The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America.

For more information contact Makai at nysjuniormiss@netscape.net or call (716) 831-3870.

Contact kapja12@yahoo.com with any comments.