Kohl Crowned Jr. Miss Highlands County
By BILL RETTEW JR.

SEBRING — At just an inch over 5 feet in height, Morgan Kohl walked tall as the 2007 Jr. Miss Highlands County.

The Lake Placid resident was crowned Tuesday night at the Highlands County Fairgrounds, edging out 27 other girls in the 12-15 age group.

“It’s amazing,” the 13-year-old said. “I can’t believe this.”

And much of the rowdy crowd agreed.

Well-wishers, especially those in the far back of the Expo Pavilion, chanted the names of their favorites, hooted and hollered. Dozens waved homemade signs in the crowd of more than 700 spectators.

Air horns serenaded the girls for a portion of the festivities until the audience was asked to stop blowing the ear-piercing devices, since nearby fair livestock were being frightened.

The crowd worked itself into a frenzy when all 28 contestants stood waiting to hear whether their name would be called as one of five finalists.

A minor score-keeping snafu made the moment seem to last forever.

At first, contestants in evening dresses smiled broadly and seemed to enjoy the love of the crowd. As seconds turned into
minutes, some jaws clenched and several girls shifted from foot to foot. But the smiles remained as the top five were announced.

Then much of the crowd left when it was evident that a favored contestant had become an also-ran. Leeza Freeland, Jr. Miss Highlands County 2006, had advice for her replacement prior to Kohl’s selection.

“Good luck in the world,” said Freeland. “You’ve only got one year and it’s going to fly by.”

When asked which charity she supported, Kohl told the audience about her relationship with Big Brothers, Big Sisters.

The daughter of Walter and Renee Kohl said her most treasured possession is her family. She believes that Highlands County needs a new updated mall for better shopping and a safe place for kids to hang out.

The other winners were the following: Chelsea Qualls was first runner-up, Shawnee Lester was second-runner-up, Kacie Bovard was third runner-up and Taylor Concklin was fourth runner-up.

The “Miss Photogenic “ award went to Jaye Whitehead. “Miss Congeniality,” as voted on by her peers, was Simone Sample.

Kohl won a sash, tiara and silver tray, along with a color portrait and modeling session. She also won a tote bag, custom-designed jacket and flowers at the Alan Jay Automotive Network sponsored event.

Erin McFarland sang the national anthem, and the Sebring High School ROTC presented the colors.

The night’s opening number, “Grease,” was choreographed by Stephanie Murphy and Freeland.

Heartland Idol Jr. contestants performed for an appreciative audience, while the singers filled in natural gaps in program when tabulators worked the adding machines.

John Snyder was emcee.