Judges Choose 2009-2010 Miss La Palma and Royal Court

By Larry Caballero

Family, friends and local dignitaries arrived at the Kennedy High School’s Performing Arts Center to enjoy an evening of entertainment and suspense Nov. 8 as they waited to hear the announcement of who the 2009-2010 Miss La Palma and her Royal Court would be.
Judging consisted of interview, talent, speech, and evening gown competitions. Contestants were asked to answer the question: Where will you be and what will you be doing in the next 25 years. The program also included a dance exhibition and a farewell appearance by 2008-2009 Miss La Palma Tina Estrada before the awards presentation and announcement of the 2009-2010 Miss La Palma Royal Court.
“Throughout the year it has been my honor to represent the City of La Palma,” said Estrada. “From the moment I was crowned to now, I have had an unforgettable experience that I will cherish for a lifetime.”
Master of Ceremonies actor, singer, playwright and director Michael Buss announced the winners in the various categories before the new Miss La Palma and her court were named. Miss La Palma Star was Sheraiah Paige Lucena who raised the most revenue for the Pageant by selling tickets and ads for the program. Emily Ann Kulassia won the Interview Award, and Chelsey Wegener had to share the Evening Gown Award with 2009-2010 Miss La Palma Judy Yoo who also won the Talent, Speech, and Question Categories.
Yoo’s first duty will be to represent La Palma in the La Palma Days Parade Nov. 14 before becoming the City’s Ambassador for the next twelve months at numerous public events including Ribbon Cuttings, Grand Openings and special holidays.
Miss La Palma’s Royal Court include 4th Runner up Danielle Jones, 3rd Runner up Mylene Montoya, 2nd Runner up Emily Ann Kulassia and 1st Runner up Chelsey Wegener.
Special guests included La Palma Mayor Mark Waldman, Councilmembers Larry Herman, Ralph Rodriguez and Steve Shanahan, as well as City Manager Dominic Lazzaretto. Wishing the contestants good luck were Miss Artesia and her Court along with Mr. California, California Teen and the Southern California Royal Court.