Miss Fallbrook entries now being accepted

Soroptimist International of Fallbrook has announced that entrants can join the 2014 Miss Fallbrook Ambassador “Live Your Dream” program until Sunday, Feb. 9.

“This program is an excellent opportunity for young women to develop the qualities needed to ensure future success such as poise, self-confidence, public speaking and interviewing skills,” said program chairperson Keri Richmond. “It makes an impressive addition to a resume or college application.”

The Soroptimist ran the program for many years before turning it over five years ago to another entity. This year, the group has once again taken the helm and is organizing and overseeing the popular ambassador program for local young women. Given that, a few adjustments have been made for 2014.

“The age range of contestants has been expanded to include 16-year-olds,” said Maureen O’Reilly, Soroptimist vice president.

“In order to participate in the 2014 program, young women must be between the ages of 16 and 24 on the date of the event, April 5.” Contestants should also be single, unmarried, have no children, and reside in Fallbrook, Bonsall, Pala, Rainbow, or De Luz.

In previous years, entrants had to be a minimum of 17 years old and at least a senior in high school.

“Since 16-year-olds are now eligible, we may get some sophomores and juniors,” said O’Reilly.

The program will return to the selection of only one Miss Fallbrook Ambassador; there will not be a Miss Teen Fallbrook category. In addition to the Miss Fallbrook, two runners-up will be selected.

“Miss Fallbrook will receive a $1,000 scholarship and the first runner-up will receive a $500 scholarship,” said O’Reilly.

Those interested in joining the program must attend a mandatory contestant’s orientation on Sunday, Feb. 9, at 2 p.m., at Heritage Hall, 122 Ash Street in Fallbrook. Contestants and their parents must be present in order to complete necessary paperwork.

“There will be a rehearsal every Sunday afternoon beginning Feb. 23, from noon to 3 p.m., until the event,” said O’Reilly, who added the young women will be mentored in developing many skills.

Richmond said the contestants will participate in various activities during the program.

“Each of them will attend either the Miss Carlsbad or Miss Escondido pageant during that time frame,” said Richmond, adding that the group will also participate in a community service project.

In skill-building sessions, contestants will receive guidance in public speaking skills and being interviewed.

“We are also planning on doing an educational business experience where each contestant will shadow a local business owner or manager and learn what it’s like to be in that type of field and run a business,” said Richmond.

The Miss Fallbrook Ambassador ‘Live Your Dream’ Program grand finale event will be presented on Saturday, April 5 at 6:30 p.m., at Potter Junior High School’s multi-purpose facility.

Questions can be directed to Sherri Trombetta at (951) 265-6428 or by email to [email protected]. Contestant applications can be downloaded from http://www.SoroptimistFallbrookCA.com.

Tickets for the April 5 event will go on sale February 9 and be available from contestants, on the Soroptimist website, or at the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce office at 111 S. Main Ave. If purchased in advance, tickets will be $15; at the door $20.