Although Shannon Farrar didn't make the final eight at the Alabama Junior Miss program in Montgomery on Jan. 21 and 22, she says it was an experience she will never forget.

The 18-year-old senior at Fort Dale Academy said that although not finishing as a finalist was a disappointment, what she learned from the experience was even more valuable.

"I think the relationships we formed while we were up there are the most important thing," Farrar said. "It was amazing how close we all became in such a short period of time."

Farrar spent the week prior to the program in reherals. It was during this time, she says she got to know the young women representing the 56 other Alabama counties.

"There were only eight finalists, which left 49 other girls," she said. "So the whole time we were up there it was never about winning but more about just having fun."

On Friday night, Jan. 21, Farrar competed in the creative and performing arts category playing a piano solo "Fur Elise." And, on Saturday afternoon, Jan. 22, she competed in the fitness category and the presence and composure category.

While all 57 representatives were in the spotlight all weekend, Farrar says the pressure was mild.

"I think some of the girls felt pressure about the interviews, but that's just because they put pressure on themselves," she said. "There wasn't a whole lot of pressure, we were just trying to have fun."

Farrar's platform, "be your best self," says it all about how Butler County's Junior Miss looks at the world.

"An optimist once said: two men look out through the same bars. One sees mud, the other sees stars. In order to overcome obstacles in life, one must realize that with every difficulty lies an opportunity," she said.

Farrar said she appreciates the support of everyone in Butler County and also that of her host family in Montgomery, Dr. Keith and Teresa Thompson.

"They were so nice and met every need we had," she said. "It was the most wonderful week of my life and the best experience I've ever had."

Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce Interim President Carol Lee was one of more than 50 Butler Countians who attended the two-day program last weekend. Lee said said that while Farrar may not have won the state title, she should be considered a winner by everyone in Butler County.

"Shannon did an outstanding job and we could not have been more proud of her," Lee said. "She had a great week, came home a little tired, and made friends that will last a lifetime."