Sisters High School Pageant supports FAN

The SHS Pageant has been a tradition at Sisters High School (SHS) for over a dozen years. On Sunday, April 28, members of SHS continued this tradition as they performed "Outlaws On Broadway" for the Sisters community.

The selected seven teams of two performed a multitude of different talents, dances, and videos.

The success of the event wouldn't have been possible without the hardworking hands behind the scenes. Pageant coordinators Jordan Velikonia, Holly Davis, and Ella Eby all played crucial roles in aiding the event. Jack Turpen and additional tech workers ran lights, music, and videos.

The event began at 6 p.m. as SHS Staff Coordinator Jami Lyn Weber gave a speech to the crowd. She then led the audience in taking a moment of silence; an idea that came to life after COVID-19 and social distancing protocols. The purpose of these few seconds was to take a breath, recognize the community members around them, and feel gratitude for being able to attend the event.

"I hope we never get over the wonder of sitting in a crowded room...so thank you for being here and supporting the students and a cause we all know matters," said Weber.

The event supports Family Access Network (FAN), dedicated to raising money for families around Central Oregon who need additional support. Over this year the SHS Pie in the Face, Pasta Feed and Dessert Auction, and Pageant raised over $7,500 to donate to the organization.

The pageant itself was judged by four adjudicators: Brad Tisdel, Kristy Rawls, Jacob Gurney, and Loni Liddell. They judged the contestants based on their dance moves, talents, videos, and overall poise throughout the competition.

The performance was split up into two halves, with four teams performing before intermission and three after. Each team presented memorable moments that had the crowd lapsing in and out of laughter. During the two hours, there were scooter races, trivia contests, and show-stopping dances.

"Even though I'm not the best at dancing, singing, or being on stage, I still really enjoyed all of it," said senior Timber Bionda. "One of the reasons I enjoyed it so much was because the program brings together so many amazing but different people to have fun."

During the final section of the pageant, the contestants were recognized for their hard work and their post-high school plans. Finally, the awards were given out to contestants. Before the winners were awarded, two individuals were chosen for their dedication and perseverance throughout the preparation of the show. These two seniors were Brooke Blakelock and Timber Bionda, who accepted their trophies with beaming smiles.

The winners of the pageant were then announced. Justin DeSmet and Juhree Kizziar were crowned as the winners of the 2024 SHS Pageant. Their chosen theme of "Grease," and undeniable chemistry captured the hearts of the crowd and the judges.

"I love 'Grease,' the songs, the dancing, Justin and Juhree were amazing!" exclaimed one attendee.

"This is a really special event that's unique to our community, it's a testament to the spirit of Sisters," said Turpen.