Patriotic pageants

Patriotism was abundant and the air conditioning was welcome as McMinnville’s downtown Fourth of July celebration wrapped up inside the Park Theater Saturday with the Mr. And Miss Stars and Stripes pageant.

The annual event is a fundraiser for the Miss Middle Tennessee Organization in partnership with the City of McMinnville and drew 29 contestants from birth to 12 years vying for titles in nine age categories. A panel of four judges made tough decisions as contestants took to the stage in their star-spangled attire. Mrs. Tennessee Festivals Kelsey Lawrence Lupori served as emcee.

Nobody went home empty-handed as each contestant was able to pick a prize from the toy basket at the conclusion of each age group. Those who also walked away with a title include Mr. Star and Stripes 0 - 11 mos. Waylon Walker; Miss Stars and Stripes 0 - 11 mos. Charlee Kate Miller; Mr. Stars and Stripes 12 mos. - 2 years Wyatt James Hickey; Miss Stars and Stripes 12 mos. - 2 years Emmy Dunnavant; Mr. Stars and Stripes 3 - 4 yrs. Daniel Dunnavant; Miss Stars and Stripes 3 - 4 yrs. Minerva Owens; Miss Stars and Stripes 5 - 6 yrs. Mayla Meadows; Miss Stars and Stripes 7 - 9 yrs. Kenzie Simon; and Miss Stars and Stripes 10 - 12 yrs. Ashber Mae Cotes.