First-grader qualifies for national pageant

Staff Reports

Lani Jo Craig, a 7-year-old first-grader at Schmitt Elementary School in Columbus, is a national finalist for the National American Miss pageant title.

Craig earned first place in the top model and talent categories and second runner-up in casual wear. She finished in the top 10 in a field of more than 50 girls, according to a pageant news release.

She qualified for the national pageant at Disneyland in Anaheim, California.

Craig is the daughter of Daniel Craig and Katie Hawkins. She has two sisters and lives in Hope.

Gymnastics, fast-pitch softball and horses are among Lani Jo Craig’s activities, and she also enjoys community service work, according to the news release.