Miss Illinois takes message to classrooms

By Hilary Simmons/Journal Staff Writer

Published: Friday, November 10, 2006 10:51 AM CST
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HILARY SIMMONS/Journal Photo-Heidi Ekstrom, Miss Illinois 2006, uses her pink H3 Hummer to tour the state. She was in McDonough County this week to speak at area schools.

MACOMB - The sparkling pink H3 Hummer seen driving around the area Tuesday and Wednesday belongs to Heidi Ekstrom, Miss Illinois 2006. The vehicle was donated by Woodfield Hummer for Ekstrom's use during her reign. However, the perks of being the title holder aren't merely material.

Ekstrom has been touring the state visiting schools and speaking at special events about her platform, enriching the lives of children with disabilities, and as a spokesperson for the Make-A-Wish Foundation and an honorary member of the Best Buddies Illinois Junior Advisory Board. She has a deeply rooted interest in utilizing her platform to its greatest extent. Ekstrom has two sisters with disabilities, one who passed away at age 6 from congenital heart disease, and has seen the difficulties and challenges they face. During her speeches she emphasizes acceptance and respect to try and eradicate the bullying of children with disabilities. Ekstrom spoke at West Prairie, LaHarpe and Macomb schools during her two-day visit about her Character Counts Coalition.

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