The Life of Amy Gregorio: Mrs. Illinois International 2013!

This weekend I, along with other ladies from around Illinois, found ourselves in Wadsworth. We were competing for the job of Mrs. Illinois International 2013. We each took part in personal interviews with each judge. Then we later answered on-stage questions and competed in fitness and evening gown. The International system celebrates women around the globe and our work in our communities. The work each of us does on behalf of our "platforms," is of great importance. I got to know this system several years ago when I would go to cheer on friends of mine from around the country who were competing in it. I live near where they have held the pageant, so it has been a tradition to bring boxes sent to me from contestants to the hotel in an effort to help save them the hassle and expense of flying with all of it. (I've been a groupie of sorts!) Last year my husband (who has gone to the Mrs. International pageant before with me) suggested I give it a try, so I listened. To me, the support of my husband it crucial and I know with the International system, there are so many opportunities to do big things for my work as a CASA so I knew his encouragement was necessary as with the job comes a lot of responsibility. Jennifer Naida (a dear friend) is the new director for the Miss and Miss Teen Illinois ladies and Beverly Turkowski is the new Mrs. Illinois director. Together, they are already a dominant force. Everyone had a great weekend and it was well organized. Mrs. International 2013, Sarah Bazey, even made the trip in for the weekend. She is extraordinary! On Sunday night, I was thrilled to have won fitness and evening gown. And I am extremely ecstatic to be the new Mrs. Illinois International 2013. I was able to get to know the other contestants during the weekend. Any one of us would truly do an excellent job. So, I dedicate my year to these incredible women. I want to do as much as I can on behalf of CASA and the abused and neglected children we serve as I know that with this title comes more opportunities to create awareness. Here are a few candids. Paula Preston is an amazing photographer and I can't wait for her pictures to arrive.