Alisha Devon Smith, 17, daughter of John and Laura Smith was chosen as a state finalist in the Miss North Carolina American Teen Pageant held July 9-10 at the Adams Mark Hotel in Winston-Salem. The pageant was held for girls age 13-17.

The winner of the pageant received a $1,000 cash award, the official crown and banner, bouquet of roses, transportation and sponsor fee to compete in the national pageant at Walt Disney World in Florida. Other pageants are held for the state to include all girls ages 3 through 17.

Thousands of dollars in cash awards, scholarships, trophies, and prizes will be awarded during the state pageant weekend. According to pageant officials, since 1983 the Miss American Coed Pageant System has awarded more than $10 million in scholarships and awards to deserving young ladies. All activities are age-appropriate and family-oriented.

Families interested in receiving information about the pageants may call or write “Pageant Headquarters,” 4714 Riviera Drive, Suite 301, Middletown, Ohio 45042; phone (513) 425-0800.

The pageants are for “Tomorrow’s Leaders.” They are open to girls between the ages of 3 and 17, with goals and dreams based on inner beauty, as well as poise, appearance, and “All-American spirit for family, fun, and friends.” Emphasis is placed on the importance of gaining self confidence, learning new skills, learning good attitudes about competition, and setting and achieving personal goals. The pageant seeks to recognize the accomplishments of each girl while encouraging her to set goals for the future.

Smith’s activities include participating in drama, choral ensemble, science, and the Future Business Leaders of America clubs at Western Harnett High School.

She says she also enjoys spending time with her family, boyfriend and friends, flying, and helping people in need. Smith had several sponsors including Rebecca Finchum, Ideal Furniture, Dan Roberts, Barretta Trindade, Annie Bordeaux, T.J. Construction, Lynn Faulk, Medical Park Pharmacy and Russell Bradley.