Bonnie Pahlman, a senior at Maine West, was one of the Chicago area's six delegates to the first National Youthpower congress held at the Palmer House in Chicago February 10‑13. Among the 200 teenage representatives from all over the United States, 22 were from Illinois.

"Food comes first" was the theme of the Youthpower congress, which was sponsored by the National Food conference. This is a group of more than 50 food industry organizations concerned over the problem of inadequate teen‑age nutrition. The purpose of the event was to emphasize the importance of eating a properly balanced diet every day for maximum achievement, health, and happiness.

Covering topics ranging from "Food for Underseas Man" to "Food for Man in Space," Agriculture secretary Ezra Taft Benson and other speakers addressed the assembly. Delegates also had their own groups, discussing problems of health and fitness, nutrition, careers for the future, social activity, family living, and community activity.

Bonnie, who was a group discussion leader, was chosen to attend the congress on the basis of her 100 word essay on "Nutrition for Youthpower ." Her – eligibility for this contest was determined from a food poster for which she received an award last fall. "It was a good opportunity, and I wanted to take advantage of it," Bonnie declared.

Home economics and sports have been Bonnie's main interests in high school. She is vice-president of GAA and has been a 4‑H member for four years, having taken Clothing II, Foods II, and home management. A major in home economics at the University of Illinois with a minor in physical education is in Bonnie's future.

Bonnie and the other delegates are to speak to various organizations in their communities on the importance of nutrition. "We are the citizens of tomorrow," she emphasized, "and it is up to us to keep ourselves healthy and strong to take over the responsibilities of our country."