New Jr. Miss Clawson stands tall
BY ERIC CZARNIK
STAFF WRITER

Bria Hunt stands four feet and six inches tall, so some might say she is small in stature. But pageant judges thought she was big in charisma when they crowned her Jr. Miss Clawson 2006 at Clawson High School on Friday night.

Bria, 12, beat 13 other competitors for the chance to represent Clawson at community events throughout the year. As the winner, she won a $200 U.S. savings bond, a necklace with matching earrings, a special trophy and the traditional outfit of sash and crown.

In the days following her coronation, Bria said she initially could not believe that she won the title. "My life has not really changed, but I do feel very honored," she said. "I do feel a little bit famous now, too."

The victory also amazed Bria's parents. "We're a little... in shock," said Brad Hunt, Bria's father. "We initially did this for her to have some fun. We're just thrilled to death."

During the pageant, contestants showcased traits such as personality, appearance and poise. They were scored on the categories of introduction, personal interview, causal wear, evening wear and final question.

Host Greg Adaline exclaimed throughout the evening that the contest for the crown would be a close one. "They have the brains, they have the beauty," he exclaimed. "It's going to be tough."

Bria presented herself in a feminine fashion with her choice of a light pink dress for evening wear. And she impressed the judges with her casual wear of jean capris, a dark pink tank top and a green crocheted shrug. "This outfit expresses Bria's personality because it's colorful, bright and cheerful, just like Bria," Adaline said.

The title of Jr. Miss Clawson was not the only award that Bria received on Friday night. She also earned some trophies in the pageant's additional, separate contests, including a first-place finish in Outstanding Talent for her gymnastics routine.

But the other contestants didn't leave empty handed. Jr. Miss Clawson first runner-up Jacey Schuetz, 12, went on to take first place for Best Actress and Miss Photogenic.