Little Miss Independence crowned Monday

Published 4:09 pm Tuesday, July 5, 2016

BELHAVEN — Aubrey Moss is the newly crowned Little Miss Independence 2016, a title she won during Belhaven’s July 4 festivities Monday morning.

Eleven contestants between the ages of 4 and 6 competed in this year’s pageant, held at the Wilkinson Center. The winner was chosen by the judges following competitions in patriotic wear, onstage question, talent and party dress categories.

Aubrey is the 5-year-old daughter of Parks and Brooke Moss of Bath. During the talent portion she performed an original dance to “Girl in a Country Song.”

First runner-up honors went to Kloey Sadler, 5, daughter of Nick and Mindy Sadler of Swan Quarter. Ella Nelson, 4, daughter of Jonathan and Melissa Nelson of Belhaven, was named second runner-up.

A special talent award was presented to Blakley Thompson, 5, daughter of Bradley and Bridgette Hudnell of Belhaven. Henley Gibbs, 6, daughter of Matthew and Loren Gibbs of Swan Quarter, received the photogenic award.

Other members of the pageant court of honor were Sophie Bagley, 5, daughter of Matthew and Dawn Bagley of Pantego; Millie Smith, 4, daughter of Darren and Angie Smith of Bath; Alaina Bowen, 4, daughter of Tony and Amber Bowen of Belhaven; Ricki Groome, 5, daughter of Kevan and Peggy Groome of Belhaven; Hailie Roberts, 4, daughter of Ronnie and Jessica Crider of Belhaven; and Caroline Evans, 5, daughter of Shawn and Jennifer Evans of Washington.

Family and friends of the contestants were welcomed by Belhaven Mayor Adam O’Neal and pageant director Joy Jarvis. Mistress of ceremonies was Brianna Swain, who just recently completed her reign as Miss Independence 2015.

Special guests included Macy Radcliffe, Young Miss Independence 2016, and Madison Tetterton, Miss Independence 2016.

Lindsey Newberry, Little Miss Independence 2015, entertained during the pageant before crowning her successor. Entertainment was also provided by Chuck Williams and Katherine Williams.