Peach Living held a question-and-answer session with Kandice Cleckler, a senior at Chilton County High School. Cleckler, 18, is the reigning Miss Chilton County. She is the daughter of Roger and Becky Cleckler and the sister of Bradley Cleckler, 22.
PEACH LIVING MAGAZINE: Have you participated in other pageants before this year’s Miss Chilton County Pageant?
KANDICE CLECKLER: Yes. I have competed in numerous pageants since I was 5 years old, some of which include Miss Chilton County, Peach, Swedish Festival and the National American Miss and National Co-Ed pageants in Birmingham.
PL: Why did you decide to participate in Miss Chilton County?
KC: The pageant provides an awesome scholarship and an opportunity to compete in the Miss Alabama Pageant.
PL: What are your responsibilities as Miss Chilton County?
KC: My responsibilities as being the 2012 Miss Chilton County include representing my county to the best of my ability by attending all of the different functions throughout my reign and being a good role model for younger girls in my community.
PL: What were the highlights of your pageant experiences?
KC: I have loved being able to meet all of the different people while competing in pageants, but I believe my biggest highlight was being named the 2012 Miss Chilton County. I have worked extremely hard to get to where I am now and knowing that my hard work has paid off is something that will stick with me forever.
PL: What clubs and activities are you involved with at school?
KC: I am a member of the National Honor Society, Beta Club, cabinet member and chairperson of the SGA, president of the Historical Society, DECA, Tiger Mart staff, yearbook staff, Spanish Club, Computer Club, captain of the varsity cheerleading squad, president of the Chilton County Juniorettes and a dancer and singer in Blast from the Past.
PL: What are your hobbies?
KC: I enjoy cheering, singing, riding 4-wheelers and going fishing with my dad.
PL: What are your plans after graduation?
KC: After graduation I plan to attend Troy University and major in physical therapy.
PL: What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
KC: Growing up, my mom and dad always taught me if you put your mind to it, you could achieve it. I have completed many of my goals by applying this advice to my life.
PL: Did you receive any advice from last year’s Miss Chilton County?
KC: Candace (Pierce) told me to enjoy every minute of it and to take lots of pictures because it was going to be a memorable year.
PL: What is something people might not know about you?
KC: I absolutely love spending time with special education children. They have always held a special place in my heart, and I adore getting to know each and everyone of them.
PL: Are you right- or left-handed?
KC: I am left-handed.
PL: What is your idea of a perfect weekend?
KC: My idea of a perfect weekend would be spending time with my friends on a day at the lake.
PL: What are your “words to live by?”
KC: My favorite quote is by Babe Ruth: “Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.” I have used this quote to help me get through my everyday life.
PL: What is your favorite thing about Chilton County?
KC: My favorite thing about Chilton County is our Southern hospitality. You always have someone that you can call when you need help.