Peterson ready to have a busy summer
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By BETH ZUMWALT
Submitted photo
Ali Peterson shows why she was voted Miss Photogenic, People’s Choice and fifth runner-up in the Miss Teen Illinois Pageant last week in Marion. She is the daughter of Eric and Brittney Peterson of Winchester.
One would think Ali Peterson would be taking the rest of the summer off. Last week was a whirlwind of activities as she competed in the Miss Teen Illinois. Her efforts there were rewarded as she received Miss Photogenic, People’s Choice and fifth runner-up.
“It was very exciting,” Peterson said. “I was so proud to be named to the top six.”
Peterson said the week started Monday, June 6, with the rehearsals. Those continued into Tuesday.
“Wednesday, we had our interview with the judges,” Peterson said. “That has always been one of my strengths.”
Thursday was the on-stage interview, complete with a random question and the evening gown competition .
Friday was the talent portion of the competition.
“I did a jazz dance to a song by Jennifer Lopez, ‘Let’s Get Loud,’ it’s a fun, upbeat number,” Peterson said.
Friday night was the finals, where Peterson cleaned-up with plaques and a $500 scholarship.
“It was my first time there,” Peterson said. “I learned a lot and met a lot of people. I’d like the opportunity to go back.”
Peterson said next year’s competition will have a different look as a lot of girls were ready to age-lout, or turn past the age of competition.
In the meantime, Peterson is looking forward to her junior year at Winchester High School, where she is a cheerleader. Her dream is to attend a college where she can continue to cheer.
But for the immediate future, she will work this summer with the Cougar Squad, attending camps and summer practices.
She also plans to work on her social impact project. Having such a project is a requirement of the Miss Illinois and Miss Teen Illinois pageants.
Peterson calls her project the “Unity in a Community.” She hopes to travel to different towns in the area encouraging community leaders and teens to become involved in community projects and issues.
“I want to encourage people to get involved in their community,” she said. “Encourage people to chip in. I plan to devise a way to share ways so people are knowledgeable about ways to help within the community.”
