4-H Dairy Princess: Caitlin McClain wins 2002 title

By Janice M. Howard / Style Editor for the Southern Standard

MC CLAIN

Caitlin Mica’ McClain, 9-1/2-year-old-daughter of Mike and Tammy McClain, was crowned winner of the 2002 Warren County 4-H Dairy Princess Pageant. There was a total of 30 contestants vying for the honor this year.

The annual contest took place June 15 at Three Star Mall’s center stage with former 4-H’er Sherry Beechum as mistress of ceremonies.

First runner-up was Heather Jileen Myers, daughter of Steve and Lisa Myers, with Lauren Lytle, 10, as second-runner-up. She is the daughter of Mark and Hilda Lytle.

Named Miss Congeniality was Hailey Danielle Jones, 9, daughter of David and Lisa Jones.

The remainder of the contestants comprising the top 10 were Lara Kate Haley, 10, daughter of Jimmy and Katrina Haley; Kayla Leanne Turner, 10, daughter of Byron and Sherry Turner; Haylie Kay Schwartz, 10, daughter of Robert and Jamie Slatton and Brad Schwartz; Tia LaShay Jennings, 10, daughter of Dwayne and Valerie Jennings; Andrea Britney Carden, 11, daughter of Jim and Lisa Carden; Shanna Wallace, 10, daughter of David Wallace; Sara Kaly Northcutt, 10, daughter of Kathy Northcutt.

For the occasion, the winner was attired in a white party frock styled with a scooped neckline, gathered sleeves and tea-length hemline. Caitlin’s special interests include 4-H, cheerleading for the Dibrell Wildcats, skating, gymnastics, tap, jazz and ballet, and church activities. She is a student at Dibrell Elementary.

When questioned by the mistress of ceremonies about her dancing interests, she replied, “I like all kinds of dance. When I get into high school I want to be a Pioneerette.”

The contestants approached center stage through an arch entwined with sunflowers and greenery and banked with baskets of fern. Clusters of black and white helium balloons, milk cans and bales of hay were placed at points of interest.

The 2001 title-holder, Erika Betschart, daughter of Michael and Tina Betschart, crowned the winner.

Entertainment was provided by Garrett Martin and Jason Roberts, members of the State 4-H Performing Arts Troupe.

Serving as ushers were Joshua Moore and Cody Walker. Mary Beth Gribble served as June Dairy Month chairman with Jamie Harris, UT Extension Service, overseeing 4-H participation in the special celebration and promotion of the dairy industry and its products.