Ms. Wheelchair USA Contestants Staying in Stow, Competing in Falls Saturday

One of the only differences between this contest and the Miss America Pageant is that these ladies have way cooler rides. 

This week, 14 contestants from around the country are staying at in Stow and showing off their glitz and glamour at for the ninth annual National Ms. Wheelchair USA contest.

The competition begins at 7:30 p.m. Saturday in the auditorium. 

Thursday, is hosting a luncheon at SOAR playground in for the contestants. 

"All of the equipment is specific and the playground area is paved," Executive Producer of Ms. Wheelchair USA Lowery Lockard said in a Stow Sentry story. "So if you're in a wheelchair or you have crutches or a walking situation, you can access that not only as a child or a player with disabilities, but also if you are a parent or a grandparent, you can also go and enjoy the playground."

SOAR playground is Ohio's only certified boundless playground. 

"It allows full use of every piece of equipment for all children, regardless of ability," said Drew. "We are very pleased to host the Ms. Wheelchair USA participants and welcome them to our community. I am impressed by the commitment and ambition of each of these accomplished women as they compete to represent the pageant as Ms. Wheelchair 2012. " 

The program promotes glamour, self-confidence and community service, and celebrates the achievements of women with disabilities.

Contestants go through two rounds of private interviews, a platform speech presentation where they choose an issue that's important to them, an evening gown competition and an on-stage question competition.

Drew, who was a judge last year, said "It was interesting to hear their stories about how and why the women had a mobility disability and why they are involved in the contest." 

Contestants must be at least 18-years-old, but there is no age maximum or marital status requirement.