Johnson back from national competition

She may not have walked away a finalist but Annissa Johnson still had fun and learned a lot at the Miss Hawaiian Tropic national competition in Laval, Que. on Sunday.
The competition was stiff as Johnson, who won the regional contest here last month, had to vie against 130 contestants, many of whom were from Quebec.
“The language was a real barrier,” she noted yesterday.
Despite not bringing home any prizes, Johnson stressed the trip was a great experience. “I got to meet a lot of nice girls . . . and had the opportunity to meet some supermodels,” she said.
“I was very happy I was able to go. Montreal was beautiful,” she added.
Johnson also learned a thing or two about modelling.
“I was told I did extremely well in the evening gown competition. My runway stuff was very good,” she remarked.
But one factor did handicap Johnson in the swimsuit portion–a small tattoo on her stomach.
“My only downfall was my tattoo,” she said. “I would like to tell anyone out there to think twice about marking your body if you want to be a model.”
She also said the contest was a growth experience. “It definitely improved my public speaking and my stage presence,” she noted.
Pictures taken of Johnson by a professional photographer will be sent to her in two weeks, helping her to establish a portfolio if she chooses to pursue a career in modelling.
Then again, she may just keep them for the memories.
Johnson would like to thank all those who helped her out, including M&S Bootery & Sportique, Tracy’s Hair Studio, D.J. Roach Electric, Larry Syrovy, and all her family and friends.