Preparations are under way for the Miss Noel Scholarship Pageant to be held on Saturday, Nov. 10, at 7 p.m. at the Aberdeen Elementary School auditorium.

The nominating committee is seeking girls ages 5 to 15 years to participate in the annual holiday-themed program, sponsored by the Sandhills Business and Professional Women's Organization.

This traditional and age-appropriate program offers an opportunity for young girls to showcase their talents and personalities, while raising scholarship funds for deserving Moore County college-aged women.

"We strongly discourage the glitzy style of some pageants, instead focusing our efforts on helping girls develop self-confidence and poise," says a spokesman.

The categories are Little Miss Noel (ages 5-6), Junior Miss Noel (ages 7-9), Miss Noel (ages 10-12), and new this year, the first ever Miss Teen Noel (ages 13-15).

"The 'Miss Noel' title holders have proudly represented the Sandhills BPW for nearly 30 years, participating in community events and parades," says the spokesman.

Applications are available now at Siblings, in Southern Pines, Stewart Construction, in Seven Lakes, The Performer's Workshop, on South Street in Aberdeen, and the Aberdeen Recreation Station at Aberdeen Lake Park; or go to the Facebook page to download an entry form.

An orientation meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 25, at 6 p.m., in Aberdeen.

For more information, call Pat Ann McMurray at (910) 944-7408.