Bennett performs at Miss Illinois Pageant

[July 05, 2011]  Lesleigh Bennett, an accomplished vocalist from Lincoln, was the special guest performer for the 2011 Miss Illinois Scholarship Pageant. The pageant was held June 29- July 2 at the Marion Cultural Civic Center in Marion. She performed Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" to a full house and rousing applause.

Bennett was chosen by the director of the Miss Illinois Association, Amalia Schwerdtmann, after submitting a sample of her singing. Following her performance, she was asked to perform at future Miss Illinois events.

Mrs. Bennett said that she "is pleased to perform for an event that recognizes not only the beauty of women, but also place education at the highest level."

"I had the opportunity to meet amazing, talented and brilliant women and learn about the platforms and charities that they represent," she said. "It was an honor to be chosen."

[Text from file received]