Local girl a state finalist for Junior Pre-Teen Miss Wisconsin pageant
Junior Pre-Teen Miss Wisconsin Pageant state finalist Alexis Feran smiles pretty and stands in her “pretty feet” position. (Photo by Addison Mumm)
By Addison Mumm
With poise and pep, Alexis Feran was named a state finalist for the junior pre-teen age division in the National American Miss Wisconsin Pageant. Her outgoing attitude, sweet demeanor and many talents got her an invitation to participate in this Miss Wisconsin pageant. Alexis is the daughter of Michael Feran and Brittany Myers, both from Prairie du Chien.
At 8 years old, Alexis will travel to Wisconsin Dells, Aug. 20 and 21, for the state finalist round of the pageant. Already, Alexis completed interviews and volunteered to assist in a presentation in front of the entire pageant group. If Alexis wins the title of National American Miss 2015 Junior Pre-Teen of Wisconsin, she will travel to Hollywood, Calif. and partake in the national level competition.
“She was very outgoing, not like the other contestants there,” said Reni Feran, Alexis’ step-mother.
The next step will include the standard formal dress portion and a judging panel critiquing what the participants say and do during one-on-one and group interviews. Alexis is very excited about wearing a formal dress.
“Fashion is my favorite thing after singing, of course. My favorite color is blue, and I hope that I get to wear a blue or pink dress,” Alexis explained.
Even though Alexis will dress in formal wear, the pageant encourages age appropriate clothing only. There is no swimwear or sportswear portion. The pageant wants to highlight the inner beauty and confidence in each participant. The National American Miss Pageants are dedicated to celebrating America’s future leaders and equipping them with life-long skills, according to National American Miss.
Unlike the typical pageant where people enter themselves, participants must be nominated. Usually teachers, school staff or coaches are the nominators. Feran still doesn’t know who nominated her.
“I want to say thank you to who ever nominated me. I’m really excited about the pageant!” Alexis said.
The Feran family is now capable of nominating others interested in participating in the pageant next year. Once invited, participants can continue to engage in the event until they are 18 years of age.
“She is very bubbly and always helping me,” said Reni. “I run three supported living houses, and she will tag along, help out and play cards with the residents.”
When asked what Alexis wants to be when she grows up she first responded with singer or a dancer, maybe an artist. One thing is for certain about she is very excited for the pageant and impatient, Alexis said.
As of now Alexis only has one sponsor, but she could definitely use more. Sponsor money is used for lodging and travel expenses, pageant fees and outfit costs. If interested in sponsoring Alexis Feran in her pageant journey, checks can be sent to the family and will be deposited into Alexis’ account. The money donated is tax deductible.
Finally, the family would like to extend an invitation to anyone wanting to participate in this pageant. Email your name and address to Reni Feran at reni.feran@gmail.com to be nominated by the Ferans, or if interested in sponsoring Alexis.
