Blackmore grateful for DYW experiences

Lily Blackmore will take the stage at the Becker Auditorium one final time on Saturday, April 24 as the Distinguished Young Woman of Bonners Ferry to welcome a new recipient of the title.

DYW officials said the past year brought many opportunities to represent Bonners Ferry and the Distinguished Young Women program, in addition to the challenges presented by COVID-19, which interrupted last year’s program mid-stream.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Lily participated in the Idaho State DYW program virtually, as did the the 30 other participants from around the state of Idaho. Via zoom meetings they held workshops and conferences to get to know one another and practice talents, fitness routine, and interview.

“I am so grateful for the positive and uplifting women that I was able to spend time with and would never trade the opportunity to represent Bonners Ferry again for anything,” Lily Blackmore said. “The DYW program taught me that I will never be perfect in comparison to others, but without comparison, my talents and skills are good enough to achieve the goals, dreams, as well as aspirations I have.”

This month brings the end of a great adventure and brings Lily’s Distinguished Young Woman experience full circle, as she helps prepare the current group of participants for the upcoming program.

“My favorite part of DYW has been seeing the exponential increase in confidence and integrity the ladies have developed throughout the program,” Lily said.

Lily is the daughter of Travis and Maureen Blackmore. She has two brothers, Caleb and Dalin and three sisters, Anika, Emily, and Mia. Lily will be attending Brigham Young University-Hawaii to study hospitality and tourism management.

This year’s program is scheduled for Saturday, April 24, at 6:30 p.m. at the Becker Auditorium in Bonners Ferry. Tickets are $12 each, and are on sale at Mountain Mike’s Health Food Store. Seating will be limited due to social distancing and reduced capacity.