In the world of beauty pageants, Ms. New York Senior America proves that age is just a number. The organization held its annual pageant at Hofstra University on April 3, and among the 10 participants was Shirley Darkeh, an 81-year-old resident of Westbury.
Darkeh was chosen from 30 women over the age of 60 who interviewed for a spot in the pageant. A friend originally submitted her name in nomination, and Darkeh agreed to participate at the encouragement of her daughter.
The pageant's organizers made use of Banners on the stage and gave each of the runners up and the pageant winner a sash to wear.
Ms. New York Senior America aims to promote a positive image of aging. During the pageant, contestants are judged in four areas: their interview beforehand, their talent, their philosophy, and their gowns.
Darkeh wore a gown she made herself during the pageant. For the talent portion, she read a poem she wrote, called ‘You Can Have It All’. Other entries to the talent part of the pageant included several song and dance numbers, a comedy act, and a yoga ball routine.
Although Darkeh did not win the pageant, she described the experience as a rewarding one.
Dolores Hofman was crowned Ms. New York Senior America for 2016, while Celeste Belletti was awarded Ms. Congeniality. The runners up included Doris Bodine, Belletti, Marie Quigley, and Terri George.
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