With just one night before the 2001 Miss Austin Pageant, Knowlton Auditorium already is a flurry of excitement.

Friday, February 23, 2001

With just one night before the 2001 Miss Austin Pageant, Knowlton Auditorium already is a flurry of excitement.

On Thursday night, the eight women vying for the title began rehearsing for Saturday night’s competition.

"They’re working with Lana Fryer, the choreographer, on the opening routine," Donna Lessard, pageant organizer, said.

Last night, the women also submitted presentations and applications for the Jaycees’ Community Service Scholarship and the Academic Achievement Scholarship.

That’s their first taste of what to expect Saturday. But at noon today, they started facing a very full schedule.

They’ll go over the opening number again today, but also have a chance to rehearse for the swimsuit and evening gown portions of the competition.

Contestants will get their first opportunity to practice the talent portion of the competition on stage as well.

After a Friday night and a Saturday afternoon full-dress rehearsal, the show’s on.

"We have a new set this year," Lessard said. "The Miss Austin Pageant is known for the extravagant sets. It will be great to hear the audience’s reaction."

More than $10,000 in scholarship money will be awarded Saturday night. Each competitor will receive a cash scholarship.

"We really focus on their future and their education," Lessard said of the scholarships.

The girls competing and their sponsors are:

The following businesses have served as candidate sponsors.

– Amber Dolphin: Applebee’s and Innovative Signs and Graphics

– Dianna Jones: OakPark Mall and Charter Communications

– Jennifer Jones: Jerry’s Other Place and US Bank

– Kristi Jones: Kestner Electric and United Building Centers

– Allison Trom: Quality Pork Processors and KAAL Region Six

– Leslie Morlan: Imagery Sound and The Coffee House on Main

– Carrie Braaten: Jimmy’s Fish and Seafood and Roxanne’s Hair Studio

– Tina Rosenthal: The Joseph Co. and Wells Fargo Bank