Helping Make A Dream Come True

To The Editor:

On Sunday, October 31, I participated in the 1999 Nationals, Inc. modeling pageant at New Britain High School, thanks to the help and support of all my sponsors and my family. Through their sponsorship, I received the necessary training, rehearsals and financial support to become self-confident and well-prepared.

A total of 175 girls between the ages of 7 and 23 were in the pageant. I entered the Miss New Haven Pre-Teen contest, for girls 10 to 12. We competed in casual and formal wear modeling and in public speaking. My Grandma Vivian made my beautiful formal gown from fabric generously given to her by our friends the Shims from Korea. My grandma was inspired in her sewing by three adult gowns generously donated for style by Julie Allen Bridals.

Poise, personality and interviewing skill were the most important considerations of the pageant. I made many new friends and developed self-confidence in speaking before a large group of people. Every girl who participated had the commitment of her friends, family and sponsors. It was an experience I will never forget.

I was thrilled to be selected as one of ten finalists out of 31 girls in my division, from which I was named a runner up and received a trophy. Because of this honor, I am eligible for the national competition in Orlando, Fla., Dec. 12 through 21.

Many local businesses, friends and family supported me in the New Haven competition, and I thank them so much.

They are: Dodgingtown Garage, Dodgingtown Market, Pet Connection, Frank’s Barber Stylist, Wood and Wood Books, Inc., Homecare Pet Sitting, Christie Zingoni, Bria Innaurato, Kendra Bobowick, Harris and Jennifer Redd-Laskawy, Gina Burkhart, Lorraine Bukowski, Vivian and Lester Newill, Florence Doniger, Richard and Alice Newill, Susan Newill, Jill Dion, Karen DiEmma, Peggy Champagne, Ellen Beveridge, Maureen Smith, Ralph Petitti, Beverly Stebbins, Richard Dibase, Leighan White-Miller.

Most of all I thank my parents, Nancy and Paul Doniger, for their support. Preparation for the pageant required many trips to New Haven for training and  interviews, and a get-acquainted party with the other contestants. I couldn’t have done it without them.

I will be seeking sponsorships for Orlando from local businesses and friends and would appreciate any support and assistance anyone can give. Thank you so much to everyone who is helping to make a dream come true.

Sincerely,

Alexandra Doniger, age 11

Newtown Middle School, Grade 6

Queen Street, Newtown                November 7, 1999