‘A goodwill ambassador for the city’: Six vie for Miss Destin 2015
She’s fishin’ and she’s castin,’ she’s posing with all the catches,
She’s smilin’ and she’s wavin,’ she’s definitely Miss Destin.
- to the tune of William Shatner’s Miss United States
One of Destin’s longest running traditions, operating hand-in-hand alongside the Destin Fishing Rodeo, is the Miss Destin Pageant. First launched in 1951, the pageant is now in its 64th year of promoting the community of Destin, its history, and its deep connection the sea.
“She represents the city of Destin at ribbon cuttings and city events and is at the rodeo docks all 31 days of October during the Destin Fishing Rodeo,” said Pageant Coordinator Helen Donaldson. “She is basically a goodwill ambassador for the city of Destin.”
Donaldson was quick to point out that the Miss Destin pageant is not a beauty pageant, as the contestants are chosen solely based on personality, community involvement, and overall demeanor.
“She’s just a good all-around girl who represents Destin,” said Donaldson.
This year six girls are vying for the title of Miss Destin 2015, as the crown will be passed down later this month from last year’s Miss Destin, Kira Moraca.
“I hope that she enjoys it as much as I do,” Moraca said of the Miss Destin to be. “I hope she really learns from the experience and becomes a better person.”
As for herself, Moraca said the role of Miss Destin truly strengthened her communication skills.
“I learned how to talk to people, make speeches and interact in public better,” she said. “I also broadened my fish knowledge a lot during the rodeo.”
During the next few weeks the six contestants will attend several social events allowing them to get to know one another, share their likes and interests, and interact with judges.
On the agenda for the girls are a Mary Kay make-over party, a boat cruise on the Southern Star, a high tea with the judges, and a fashion fitting before the pageant week.
“We’re excited, it looks like a promising year,” said Donaldson. “I think it’s going to be a lot of fun, and I look forward to meeting all the girls.”
The Miss Destin 2015 Pageant is free to the public and is scheduled on April 24, at 7 p.m. at the Destin Community Center.
Name: Adelle Adamson
Age: 17
School: Fort Walton Beach High School
Parents: Jeff and Tammy Adamson
I believe I would be a good Miss Destin because: I am a very outgoing person and I have loved the atmosphere of the harbor ever since I was a little girl. Also, I have no problem getting my hands dirty. The opportunity to meet new people from all over the U.S. would be amazing.
My goals and ambitions are: To go to college to be an OBGYN ultrasound technician and one day to work for a private practice.
Name: Alyssa Bettinger
Age: 16
School: Fort Walton Beach High School
Parents: MaryLynn and Joe Bettinger
I believe I would be a good Miss Destin because: I am actually involved with the entire fishing community, enjoy teaching people how to fish and truly love the thrill of fishing. Teenagers are often so consumed with cell phones and technology that they forget how much a sport like fishing has to offer and I would enjoy being able to remind them.
My goals and ambitions are: To attain a high enough GPA in high school to graduate with honors and attend a college in Florida while pursuing a degree in nursing. I also want to inspire youth and serve as a positive role model to my little sister, Molly, and others. My biggest ambition in life is to travel, do mission work, and fish in billfish tournaments worldwide.
Name: Lakin McKenzie Devaux
Age: 18
School: Fort Walton Beach High School
Parents: Stevie and Graeme Mannes
I believe I would be a good Miss Destin because: I am very outgoing and want the best for everyone and love the harbor and the beaches of Destin.
My goals and ambitions are: To attend school here for two years and transfer to FSU or Troy University. Start up a twirling team at Fort Walton Beach High School and go into elementary education.
Name: Alexandria Dougherty
Age: 17
School: Fort Walton Beach High School
Parents: Joe and Sharmaine Dougherty
I believe I would be a good Miss Destin because: I know all the ins and outs of Destin and I feel that I could be a good role model to people. Destin is my home and being Miss Destin would give me the most gratitude. I would love to represent such a great city.
My goals and ambitions are: To graduate college and get my degree. I plan to go into the fashion industry or interior design.
Name: Jesi Harrell
Age: 16
School: Fort Walton Beach High School
Parents: Reba and Rob Harrell
I believe I would be a good Miss Destin because: I have grown up in the boating and fishing community, the legacy of everything Destin has to offer is very near and dear to my heart. Scuba diving, fishing, and boating-to name a few- make me who I am. In other words, the true foundation of our community is a joy of mine I deeply hope to share with others.
My goals and ambitions are: To attend Florida State University, majoring in communications and public relations; eventually participating in the operations and running of our family-owned boat dealership.
Name: Haylie Nicole Starr
Age: 18
School: Fort Walton Beach High School
Parents: Vickie and Terry Eisler
I believe I would be a good Miss Destin because: I have lived in Destin for as long as I can remember. I am not afraid to get my hands dirty with fish and being right there on the docks to see what all was caught would be a great experience.
My goals and ambitions are: Graduate high school and college. Get a degree in business to future own my own bakery, get married have two kids and live happily in Destin.