Miss Michigan

7:20 PM JilinTour.Com 0 Comments

Miss Michigan 2011, Elizabeth Wertenberger, is a walking miracle. Diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis at the age of 13, she was told she’s probably never walk again and would have to move around via a wheelchair for the rest of her life. Well, if you saw her Miss America video, you know the story… not only is she walking, she’s a tumbler as well!

Miss Michigan also had a very ‘fashion forward’ look about her at Miss America… from her trendy haircut to her out-of-the-box evening gown, Elizabeth certainly had a ‘look’ you remember even when she was off stage. We know it's that sense of style and drive to 'prove her naysayers wrong' that will continue to bring her success in life!

Michigan History: Michigan has had 5 Miss Americas... Patricia Donnelly in '39, Nancy Flemming in '61, Pam Eldred in '70, Kaye Lani Rae Rafko in '88 and Kirsten Haglund in '08 (if you never saw it, google Kirsten's evening gown from '08 --- it's stunning and started the beaded 'illusion dress' trend!)

Best Junkie Research Tool: The Miss Michigan site has all the headshots located here...

Who to Watch:

Kelly Oles - 1st runner up in '11, 3rd runner up in '10, prelim talent winner

Elizabeth Hawthorn - 3rd runner up in '11, MI Teen USA in '08, community service award winner in '11

Emily Kieliszewski - 2nd runner up in '11, 3rd time at Miss MI

Interesting item to note... Sydney and Cameron Learman - Sisters who are both competing for the Miss Michigan title this year... Enjoy their story here... :)

The Junkies are "Smitten with the Mitten"!!! All the best to the new Miss Michigan!!! :)

MAJ