NOVEMBER 5, 2014
Miss Scottsdale to compete for National American Miss All American title
SCOTTSDALE – Miss Zoephia Peyton Decker-Knealing, daughter of Dr. Shannon Decker and Mr. Terry Knealing, has earned the opportunity to attend Nationals representing the great state of Arizona, where she will have the opportunity to win her share of over $500,000 in cash and prizes. Decker-Knealing qualified through her successfully scored events at her state competition this past July: Zoephia placed 2nd Overall and took first place in both Talent and Casualwear, third in Photogenic and was named Most Promising Model. The National Pageant is to be held in Anaheim, California at Disneyland during Thanksgiving week.
Miss Decker-Knealing’s activities include dance, ice skating, acting and gymnastics. She is a year ahead in school and currently in the 2nd grade at QI Montessori in Cave Creek. She is also represented as an actress and model with the Leighton Agency of Scottsdale. When not busy with school and activities, Zoephia enjoys doing community service projects. Decker-Knealing is currently leading her own fundraising efforts for Pajama Program throughout the valley.
October marks the “danger season” when donations for pajamas and books for kids in need are needed most. Last year, she collected over 200 new pajamas and 200 new books for Arizona kids in need. Her donations went to organizations like Crisis Nurseries and the Sojourner Center. Her success last year led her to start her own foundation to promote literacy, which she self-titled because her name means “bringer of light and wisdom”. Zoephia Foundation not only supports Pajama Program and other organizations dedicated to promoting literacy, but also encourages youth to get involved by acting as peer readers and tutors in their community. Miss Decker-Knealing’s sponsors include her friends and family.
Find out more about National American Miss at www.namiss.com.
