I will continue to serve the Sparta community

To the Editor: I am honored to say that I was able to represent the wonderful town of Sparta this past year. Being in parades, public events, helping out in the community, and sharing my knowledge and kindness with others throughout the town was the most rewarding part. When it came time to leave Sparta in late August, I knew I had to continue my duties as Miss Sparta in West Virginia. I am now a sophomore at West Virginia University and have loved it so far. I am majoring in elementary education and have a dual minor in special education and dance. I was accepted into the dance minor program by audition, as well as the university’s Orchesis Dance Ensemble. In addition, I received the only full dance scholarship. Throughout the year I have been working hard with academics, dancing, and giving back to the community. All year I volunteered once a week to teach six- and seven-year old children ballet, as well as volunteering over 60 hours at the “Shack Neighborhood House.” There I worked as a mentor with the after-school program, encouraging reading and guiding children through creating books; reading aloud; writing and performing plays; and exploring exciting art activities. During the past month I have volunteered as a mentor in helping conduct the Summer Literacy Program. There, I taught children how to read, write, and develop a hunger for education. As I relinquish my crown to the new Miss Sparta, I will continue to serve the needs of the community. I enjoyed reaching out to others and sharing my talents. Thank you, Sparta, for giving me the opportunity for this most memorable and rewarding opportunity that I will treasure in my heart for the rest of my life. I will never forget being crowned Miss Sparta 2005. Elizabeth Victoria Convey Miss Sparta 2005