During the past year Kalkaska has been represented throughout the state by an outstanding group of young ladies. Miss Tiny Tot Skye Lea Martin Fitch, Little Miss Aleeghan Kennedi Nason, Miss Pre-Teen Emily Caris Birgy, Miss Kalkaska Outstanding Teen Jennifer Pierce, and Miss Kalkaska Kaley Jane Babcock have traveled far and wide to participate in parades, good will events, and myriad of other gatherings. Their faces have represented the Kalkaska community in all weather and all conditions. Their journey began when their crowns were placed upon their heads one year ago. Their journey ended on Saturday during a three hour competition that, in the end, gave Kalkaska a new royal court.

When it came time to pass the sashes and the crowns along to the next set of royals, heart string tugging speeches and touching moments of tears came to pass as the 2007 royal court said their goodbyes.

Each thanked their families and friends, and each thanked their community for giving them this opportunity to serve.

The camaraderie was potent as the new royal court was announced. The obvious bonds that had formed during the 2007 court's reign seemed to offer inspiration for the new court as the new royals seemed to be forming instant connections on the stage.

After spending a whirlwind year with people who have become much like a sister to them, the 2007 royal court prepared to go their separate ways. Miss Kalkaska 2007 Kaley Babcock left nary a dry eye in the house with her farewell address, extolling the virtues of each of the Misses who served under her and handing out thanks and praise to the community that supported her. Queen Kaley Babcock stated that these had been some of the best times of her life and that she looked forward to seeing her court win and carry on her mantle as Miss Kalkaska. Until that time, Kalkaska, this is the new royal court: 2008 Miss Kalkaska Tiny Tot Olivia Lauren Azar; 2008 Little Miss Kalkaska Katie Elisabeth Hoenicke; 2008 Miss Kalkaska Pre-Teen Taylor Raye Birgy; 2008 Miss Kalkaska Teen Heidi Lynn Bell; 2008 Miss Kalkaska Catherine Irene Belcher. Miss Congeniality was Jessica Lynn Muma, this was a title carried last year by Miss Kalkaska 2007 Kaley Babcock. All are invited to attend the National Trout Festival and welcome the new court in their first official major event.