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Judy Hoit---Former Bayard Area Resident I became involved in this program when I represented Iowa as a
contestant in 1996. From there I started a program here in Iowa and became state
coordinator. Later I was elected to the national board of directors for Ms Wheelchair
America and was elected for another term this year.
This year I submitted a bid to hold next year's pageant in
Iowa. Iowa was chosen. So next July, the 31st annual pageant will be held in Des
Moines.
The week spent in Maryland was full of workshops, competition,
judging and sightseeing. On Fun Day everyone rode the Metro into DC
where we toured the FDR Museum, ate lunch on the lawn of the White House and went
shopping at Union Station.
I think we all could have spent more time sightseeing our
nation's capitol, but time was limited. We made a big impression on the city. It's not
everyday you see so many women in wheelchairs at one time, in one place.
I thought D C was very friendly, especially when a police officer
stationed at an intersection said: "Judy, you can cross here!" Then I
realized he read my name tag around my neck.
Twenty-five women from ages 21 to 60 competed in this year's
pageant -- a pageant where bathing suits are never seen, but achievements and
accomplishments reign supreme.
These women aren't fragile. They are fun-loving and bold.
They can do anything!
Their disabilities ranged from spinal cord injuries, cerebral
palsy, polio and MS to name a few. Their occupations ranged
from speech pathologist, accountant, business analyst, paralegal, TV news producer,
motivational speaker, wheelchair marathoner, to wives and mothers.
Each contestant had already competed in her home state to arrive at the national
pageant. The judging criteria is based on their communication skills, ability to
deal with media, speak with civic groups, schools, peers, public relations skills
and advocacy.
These women welcome the opportunity to show the potential of people in
wheelchairs and promote awareness to the country at large. The MWA Pageant is a vehicle to educate
the public concerning disability issues. And the titleholder is the spokesperson.
Catherine Gugala of Menasha, WI, was crowned MWA 2003.
l am really excited about, being the host state coordinator
next year. With Iowa being in the heartland of America, this national program
will, bring visitors from all over the country to share Iowa's land.
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