Behind the Headlines

By Paula Wethington / paula@monroenews.com

There were lots of cute moments during the VIP reception Saturday afternoon at Ida Public Library with the Radio Disney Jingle Jam performers. During this event, fans had a chance to meet and get autographs signed by Sarah and Julia Ross of the band Everlife and soloists Keke Palmer and Drew Seeley. It was a very well-organized event, with lots of refreshments and an event staff who made sure all the fans got the photos they wanted.

Well, it’s not just the kids who enjoyed this event. It just so happened I was on the sidelines when the national celebrities met a local celebrity. Miss Monroe County 2007 Rachel McCleery was at the VIP reception. During a break in the line of fans, Rachel came up to the national stars’ table to introduce herself.

Rachel, according to protocol for formal appearances by the Miss America preliminary royalty, was wearing her crown.

So when Rachel explained who she was, Keke took a good look at the sparkly crown. “Can I touch it?” she asked.

After that conversation, Rachel, just like all the other fans, got her photo taken with the national entertainers.