An 18-year-old college freshman, Peyton Kirby Wilson, claimed the Miss McMinnville title Saturday in the Miss Tennessee preliminary held at Warren County High School.
Wilson hails from Elizabethton, and will represent McMinnville in the Miss Tennessee Pageant next June in Jackson. She is the daughter of Chana Kirby and Doug Wilson, and attends East Tennessee State University. She made a favorable impression on the panel of judges, with them also declaring her the winner in both swimsuit and interview categories.
Her extensive prize package includes a $500 scholarship, as well as several free services available during her reign.
For her talent, she sang “Habanera” from the opera “Carmen.”  Her pageant platform is Peyton’s Purpose, in which she shares her story of being bullied as an adolescent living with Tourette Syndrome.
“Sharing my personal journey by spreading the message of anti-bullying, promoting volunteerism and exhibiting the six pillars of Character Counts, has transformed my life,” said Wilson.
She stresses her platform is a lifestyle, not just words on a page. She hopes to visit the area on a monthly basis, and will be available to speak to groups or school classrooms. Contact pageant director Susan Burks at 273-4195 to set up an appointment for a visit.
“Being chosen as Miss McMinnville means more to me than just a banner and crown. It will give me an opportunity to give back to others locally and across the state,” said Wilson.
Joining her in the court are Naomi Grace Boling, first runner-up, McKenzie Roberts, second runner-up; and People’s Choice winner Laura Ann Higgs.
The reigning Miss McMinnville Kristin Gallant and Miss McMinnville’s Out-standing Teen Anna Grace Smith sang during the pageant, as well as assisting in the crowning ceremony.
The Miss McMinnville Pageant welcomes contestants from across the state to qualify for the state competition. Contestants provide an extensive biography showcasing their chosen platform, perform a talent presentation and model both swimsuits and evening gowns.  They answer an on-stage question, and have a private interview with the panel of six judges, most visiting from out of town.
On Nov. 7 the Miss McMinnville Outstanding Teen and Teen Princess Pageants will be held. Anna Grace Smith and Kaylee Paige Dixon will relinquish their titles, crowning their successors. Anyone needing info about either of these pageants may also contact Burks.
Miss contestants were joined on stage during the evening by their “Princesses,” young ladies participating in the Princess in Training program. The mentoring program allowed the girls to participate first hand in the pageant experience, enjoying sessions on etiquette, modeling and thank-you card writing.
They were special guests at a luncheon for them, the reigning Miss Tennessee royalty and their mothers.
During the pageant, they participated in the opening dance number, along with the Warren County High School Pioneerettes.
During the evening gown competition, each girl donned her formal gown and presented a rose to one of the Miss contestants. 
Aspiring princesses included: Kalia Stewart, Gracie Cowan, Christa Cowan, Kataen Shockley, Dallis Melton, Andrea McCormick and Claire Haley Hale.