Miss Vermont goes green with dress

COLCHESTER, Vt., Jan. 5 (UPI) -- The reigning Miss Vermont said she will be going green at the upcoming Miss America Pageant with an eco-friendly gown made from hemp, organic cotton and silk.

Ashley Ruth Wheeler said the dress, which was created by a designer in northeast Vermont, also includes lace and beads made from recycled materials, WPTZ-TV, Plattsburgh, N.Y., reported Monday.

"I really feel like I'm carrying the state of Vermont with me," Wheeler said. "I thought, OK, keep the money local, and also go with environmental responsibility; it's the perfect fit."

She said the dress will make its public debut Jan. 24 at the Miss America Pageant.