The Mineola High School Winter Guard is preparing to travel to Bethlehem, PA on March 21 and 22 to compete in the Winter Guard International Bethlehem Regional, where they will perform their 2026 production, “Dear Diary,” alongside 30 winter guard programs from across the country.

Inspired by the book “Little Women,” the new show tells the story of young women pursuing dreams of becoming writers during the Civil War. Through the lens of diary entries, the show explores the emotional highs and lows of creative ambition, perseverance and the struggle for recognition in a patriarchal society. The production blends expressive movement, theatrical storytelling and powerful visual design to highlight both historical and modern themes of female empowerment.

“When designing this show, I wanted to highlight the powerful young women who have always made up the Mineola Color Guard program,” said Kevin Sandoval, Mineola High School Color Guard Director. “During this formative time in their lives, it felt important to make a clear statement – that our students’ voices, ideas and experiences truly matter.”

The Winter Guard recently earned second place out of 14 groups at the Mid‑Atlantic Indoor Network Midseason Competition held in New Jersey. The team’s success reflects their dedication, resilience and growth throughout the season. 

“This achievement reflects their determination and commitment to excellence,” Sandoval added. “Competing in Scholastic A1 means performing at a very high level against some of the strongest programs in the region.”

As the season continues, the focus extends beyond competition results. “My goal for the remainder of the season is for the students to enjoy every moment together while continuing to strive for excellence,” Sandoval said. “I want them to finish the season understanding the weight and power their voices will always have in a world that may tell them otherwise. They can achieve anything they set their minds to, as long as they truly believe in themselves.”

The message of “Dear Diary” culminates in a powerful final statement that resonates both on and off the floor: “I am not simply a woman; I am a writer at last.”

The district congratulates the High School Winter Guard on their accomplishments this season and wishes continued success and good luck at the WGI Bethlehem Regional.