Pageant News Bureau - Miss Alabama

P a g e a n t N e w s B u r e a u

Always first in Alabama

Photos by Joe Whiteko / PNB

Scarlotte Deupree

It stretches from the Appalachians to the Gulf of Mexico. It's the birthplace of Nat King Cole and Hank Williams. Its capital is Montgomery.

It may be the only state you've ever heard of.

Alabama.

Scarlotte Deupree

Shannon Camper, Miss Colonial Mall - Gadsden, who was fourth runner-up.

Scarlotte Deupree with Kelly Jones and Emily Foster

Scarlotte Deupree with Kelly Jones, Miss Alabama 2001, and Emily Foster, Miss Georgia 2001.

Even if you're not familiar with Florida, even if you know nothing of New York, you're probably aware of Alabama. It's right at the beginning of the book. (Just before Alaska, way before Wyoming.)

And if Alabama is the only state you know about thus far, you're off to an excellent start. Because only in Alabama do they have the Miss Alabama Pageant.

Sabrina Wyatt, Miss Greater Dothan.

Scarlotte Deupree

On June 15, 2002, Scarlotte Deupree, competing as Miss Camellia, was crowned Miss Alabama. (And the camellia is the official flower of what state?) When she goes to Miss America, she will be called first.

And maybe last, too. It's happened before.

P a g e a n t N e w s B u r e a u