39 contestants compete for Miss Mississippi title

By By Penny Randall / staff writer
June 8, 2003
The East Mississippi area will be well represented at the upcoming Miss Mississippi Pageant set for June 25-28 in Vicksburg.
Four young women from the area will join 35 other contestants from around the state to compete for the title and the opportunity to represent Mississippi in the upcoming Miss American pageant in Atlantic City.
Hosts for this year's pageant are Michael Young and former Miss Mississippi Christy May. Reigning Miss Mississippi Jennifer Adcock will be on stage nightly along with several entertainers.
Contestants from East Mississippi include:
Ashley Carole Buckman, Miss Meridian
Buckman is a student at East Central Community College majoring in business. She plans to earn her master's degree and attend law school.
For her talent she will sing a song from a Broadway musical. She is the daughter of Dewayne and Kathy Buckman.
Her platform is Project GEMS: Goals plus Education plus Mentors equal Success.
Misty Nicole Rea, Miss New South
Rea is a student at the University of Mississippi majoring in psychology and print journalism. She has been accepted into the August 2003 entering class of the University of Mississippi Medical Center to work on her medical degree.
For her talent, Rea will sing a Broadway song. She is the daughter of Wayne and Joyce Rea.
Her platform will be focusing on abilities rather than disabilities.
Crystal Carr, Miss
Hattiesburg
Carr is a student at the University of Southern Mississippi pursuing a bachelor's degree in education. She is also the owner of Crystal's Gymnastics Studio.
For her talent, Carr will present a classical piano selection. She is the daughter of Fred and Sissy Carr.
Her platform will be promoting on After School Activities Awareness Programs.
Kim Blackwell, Miss Southern Magnolia
Blackwell is a student at Mississippi State University majoring in communication and broadcasting. Her goal is to receive a master's degree in communication and work as an anchor for network television.
For her talent, Blackwell will perform a lyrical ballet routine. She is the daughter of Ronald and Jan Blackwell.
For her platform, Blackwell will focus on victims' rights awareness.