Photo by Lee Walls
Baskin Champion
In November, Baskin Champion represented Vestavia Hills and was crowned Miss Alabama Teen USA 2014 at the pageant held in Montgomery. Baskin will represent Alabama in the upcoming Miss Teen USA pageant.
Before the pageant, Vestavia Voice caught up with Champion, who was born and raised in Vestavia Hills and is currently a freshman at Auburn University. We asked her about her transition into pageants, long-term goals and favorite local restaurant.
Q: Where do you live in Vestavia Hills?
A: I live off Altadena Road, on the outskirts of Vestavia.
Q: Name a few of your favorite hobbies.
A: I enjoy traveling and learning about new places, modeling and spending time with family and friends.
Q: What led to your participation in Miss Alabama Teen USA?
A: One morning, as I was sitting in my kitchen eating breakfast, a lady called me and asked me to do a pageant. I blew it off at first, thinking it was fake. She told me she was the director of the Miss Alabama Teen USA pageant and that she would be in town that weekend. She also said she would like to get lunch with me and my mom and tell us more about the pageant. Needless to say, after lunch I was sold and I signed up immediately.
Q: Who do you consider your biggest inspirations?
A: My parents are my biggest inspiration because they have showed me how to love and get along with others. Also, they have taught me about the love of Jesus Christ.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
A: Ten years down the road, I hope to have graduated college, opened up my own boutique and would like to continue traveling the world.
Q: What are some places on your travel bucket list?
A: One of my dreams is to make it to all seven continents. So far I have made it to Africa, Europe, Asia and of course North America. I hope to make it to Australia, South America and Antarctica sometime in the future!
Q: Do you have a favorite restaurant here in town?
A: Yes, Klingler’s on U.S. 31. My family has eaten there since I was born. Their chicken salad is the best!
Q: What does it mean to you to represent Vestavia Hills in a big pageant like this one?
A: I feel so honored to be able to represent Vestavia Hills at any time, especially in this pageant. Vestavia Hills is where I grew up, and I have always loved it and the community that embodies it. The people here believe in family and service to others, so it is a privilege for me to represent them.
