Local girls vie for Miss Alabama Teen USA title

Published 12:01 am Wednesday, December 5, 2012

 

 

Covington County will be well represented in this weekend’s Miss Alabama Teen USA pageant.

Three local girls, Whitney Wilson and Jordan McInnis, both of Opp, and Mary-Ella McClain of Andalusia, will compete for their chance to represent Alabama in the Miss Teen USA pageant.

Wilson is the reigning Miss Opp Teen USA; McClain is the reigning Miss Andalusia Teen USA and McInnis is the reigning Miss Covington County Teen USA.

McClain is a sophomore at Andalusia High School and is the daughter of Angie and Kevin McClain.

“I am beyond excited for this Friday,” she said. “I am so ready to meet some new people and make great memories. I think this pageant – win or not – will be a great experience, and I can’t wait.”

McClain said she is also active in drag racing and barrel racing.

Wilson is a junior at Opp High School and is the daughter of Keith and Debra Wilson.

“This is the first time I have participated in the Miss Alabama Teen USA,” Wilson said. “I have always dreamed of being in this pageant. I would love to win the title of Miss Alabama Teen USA. It would be the start of a grand adventure that would help me grow into an exceptional young woman. I hope to gain more confidence within myself, and my abilities throughout this competition’s journey.”

Wilson said she admires people with disabilities.

“People who have a handicap or obstacle in their life, but do not let it stop them from achieving their dreams inspire me the most,” she said.

McInnis is a junior at Opp High School and is the daughter of Tammy and Louie Grimes.

“I am so proud to represent my school, community and county in the Miss Teen USA pageant,” she said on Facebook.

McInnis is active in music and modeling in her spare time.

“Music is my passion. I first began singing in church before I could read,” she said. “In grammar school, I began taking piano and moved to the guitar where I truly found my place. Picking up the guitar and writing music is a great way to not only express yourself, but also a great way to work through your emotions. Playing the guitar and singing has given me an opportunity to share my faith in Christ with others.”

McInnis is also in the Top 25 in a national model search, which is featured on her Facebook page.

The event will be held Friday and Saturday nights at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center.

Tickets may be purchased online at ticketmaster.com, and those unable to attend may watch online at missalabamausa.com.