Bruyere captures FITS crown

The air around the five contestants practically crackled with anticipation last Thursday afternoon as they waited for the judges to announce who would be crowned the 2004 Fun in the Sun queen.
But even in the throes of competition, the girls stood together on the stage at Pither’s Point and held hands as Alyssa Bruyere was declared the winner.
First Princess went to Shana Morrison while Erika Johnson was crowned Second Princess.
“I’m surprised, for sure,” said a smiling Bruyere. “There were a lot of excellent girls who could’ve won.”
Along with the crown, Bruyere, as well as the two princesses, also received sashes, flowers, and scholarships to go towards their post-secondary education.
Bruyere received $1,500, Morrison was granted $750, and Johnson won $500.
In addition to being named queen, Bruyere also was voted “Miss Congeniality” by her fellow contestants—an award that goes to the one deemed most outgoing and deserving of the title.
“I’m pretty excited. I’m really happy with First Princess, I wasn’t expecting it at all,” enthused Morrison. “I’m really happy for Alyssa and Erika. I think it will be really great working with them.”
“I’m feeling excellent,” echoed Johnson. “I’m just sad it’s over.”
Johnson said she had an excellent experience in the pageant, and that all five of the contestants had become friends over the course of the activities during the past few weeks.
The final activities took place on Canada Day, which included the picnic basket auction and then the final questions.
The judges—Kim Penney, Tarra Scott, and Sherry Puddicombe—based their decision on a number of criteria, including the girls’ parade floats, their participation in the entertainment night, and personal interview.
The other two contestants were Carissa Makarchuk and Danielle Shine.
As their first duty, the newly-crowned queen and princesses participated in the Fourth of July parade Sunday in International Falls.