Having wanted to be a plus-size model and participate in pageantry for a while, Clanton resident Ebony Sandford will receive the opportunity to compete and possibly take home the crown at the 2011 Miss Alabama Plus America Pageant.

The pageant is organized by Coronet Productions, L.L.C., an organization devoted to promoting the sophisticated, ambitious, responsible and community service oriented full-figured woman of the new millennium. It is also committed to excellence in pageantry and owned by Christian women who believe in healthy competition, according to the pageant’s website.

“I’ve been wanting to participate in the pageant for three years now,” said Sandford. “With different things going on, this is the first time I’ve been granted the freedom to participate, and I felt like it was perfect timing for me.”

The pageant is held in 11 states across the country.

With numerous categories to choose from outside of the traditional interview, evening gown and talent; Sandford will participate in the elegant pant wear, runway, poetry and Miss Photogenic categories.

“This pageant is not about the looks; it’s about the personality, and that is why the interview is worth 50 percent,” said Sandford. “The judges want to get to know who you are as a person.

“I would encourage anyone who wants to do pageantry to go for it, just do it for all the right reasons,” said Sandford. “Especially, if it’s something you’re feeling strongly about. Just believe in yourself.

“I just thank all of my supporters and all of the sponsors who heard about me and wanted to be a part,” said Sandford. “I also want to thank my mother Connie Barbour for supporting me as well.”

The pageant will be held Saturday, April 30 through May 1 at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel, 2101 Richard Arrington Blvd.

Admission is $10 for the preliminary round that Saturday and $15 for Sunday’s finale.

The winner of the pageant will receive numerous prizes and will advance to nationals that will be held in Dallas, Texas, July 5-9, for a chance to be crowned Miss Plus America.

For more information regarding the pageant, visit www.missplusamerica.com.