McKenna Ashli Rhea wins title

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

After being named pageant winner, McKenna Ashli Rhea, 2002 Warren County Princess, greets the large audience filling the auditorium at Warren County High School. She is the daughter of Ted and Alpha Rhea.

McKenna Ashli Rhea, 14-year-old-daughter of Ted and Alpha Rhea, was selected as winner of the 2002 Warren County Princess Pageant. There was a total of 25 contestants vying for the honor this year. The third annual contest, sponsored as a fund-raiser by Junior Varsity Pioneerettes, took place May 4 in the auditorium of Warren County High School.

Tracy Brackley served as mistress of ceremonies. Crowning the winner and presenting special awards was 2001 Princess Lacey J. Link, 13-year-old-daughter of Andy and Debi Link.

First-runner-up and Miss Congeniality was Haley Lauren Bouldin, 12, daughter of Dwight Bouldin, Jeff and Regina Woodlee, with Wesley Caroline Hillis, 14, daughter of Jim and Monti Hillis, as second-runner-up. Lauren Paige Grandey, 14, daughter of Joey and Susan Grandey, was third runner-up; and Kayla Shae Morton, 13, daughter of Ricky and Toni Morton, was fourth runner-up. Selected Most Photogenic was Alicia Lara, 13, daughter of Patricia Lara.

In addition to those mentioned above, the remainder of the top 10 finalists included Summer Lauren Crouch, daughter of Barry and Rachel Crouch; Kara Brooke Green, daughter of Tyra Green, Ed and Kim Green; Talekia King, daughter of Sonjia Winfree and Tommy King; and Chelsea Noel Pedigo, daughter of Steve and Beverly Pedigo.

Serving as stage escorts were Tucker Chastain and Trey Miller. A vocal performance was given by Hilary Phillips.

The contest was open to female residents of Warren County, ages 12 to 14. Each participant answered questions in a personality interview prior to the pageant that accounted for 50 percent of the score. Introduction on stage counted 15 percent and appearance in evening gown during the pageant accounted for the remaining 100 percent of the possible total score of 165 points.