Thomas enjoying experience at state contest
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Whitley County's Distinguished Young Woman Michaela Thomas, below at right, is shown with her host sister, Grace Kuhlman, in Kokomo. Thomas will remain in Kokomo for the remainder of the week as she represents Whitley County at the state contest.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Whitley County's Distinguished Young Woman Michaela Thomas' whirlwind experience at the state competition in Kokomo is well underway.
Pausing briefly from what seems to be a grueling week of practice sprinkled with fun, Thomas spoke with Talk of the Town this afternoon to share her experience thus far.
"So far, my days have been filled with a lot of practicing," said Thomas.
"We've been practicing the fitness routine and opening number," Thomas said. "And also staging." She described the practices as hard work, but there are glimmers of enjoyment in that. "Whenever we get a little break, we use it."
She's been using her down time to meet fellow contestants, learning about them and their communities.
"There are so many incredible girls here," she said. "I've made a lot of friends."
Little about the experience has come as a surprise for Thomas, something she credits to local program and it's coordinator, Pamela Thompson.
"Pam Thompson has been incredible at letting me know what to expect," she said. "What we did for the local competition was similar to what we're doing here -- not too many surprises."
What remains a surprise, however, is how Thomas will fare in the competition which kicks off Thursday.
When asked how she expects to do competitively, she responded, "I have no idea! I hope I do well...there are a lot of deserving girls here."
The Indiana Junior Miss Program/Distinguished Young Women of Indiana is celebrating its 53rd year.
Preliminary competition begins this Thursday, February 23 at 7 p.m. and Friday, February 24 at 7 p.m. at Kokomo High School. Admission is $10. Saturday evening is the final night of competition, when eight finalists will be named to compete in the on stage categories of fitness, talent and self expression. Admission is $15.
Cards may be sent to Darrough Chapel Early Learning Center, c/o Julie Worland, Attn: Michaela Thomas #15, 900 South Goyer Road, Kokomo IN 46901