Local youth does well at Nebraska state pageant

    Seven-year-old Alexandria Murillo came home to McCook with a load of trophies after the National American Miss Nebraska Pageant.
    Young Alexandria, who was born in Imperial, is now making plans for the nationals in Orlando, Florida in late November.
    At a combined event with the Iowa pageant in Des Moines July 17-18, she won 11 awards including first runner-up overall.
    She won the runway, model and actress divisions, as well as winning for most recommendations and thank-you note.
    She earned runner-up in casual wear, most photogenic and Miss Personality, the latter voted on by other participants. She was also recognized in the outstanding program division and Spirit of America.
    Her mother, Olivia Cappel of McCook, said they are making plans for the national competition over Thanksgiving weekend in Florida. Alexandria must raise nearly $7,000 beforehand, and plans various fundraisers in the coming months.
    Her father Gilberto (Gibby) Murillo resides in McCook and grandparents Maria and Gregorio Murillo live in Imperial.
    Donations toward her cause can be mailed to Alexandria Murillo, PO Box 622, McCook Nebraska 69001, or made to PayPal.me/OliviaCappel.