CT’s Ms. Golden Girl Pageant Celebrated In Hamden

HAMDEN, CT — The Connecticut Ms. Golden Girl pageant was recently celebrated at the Hamden Rehabilitation and Health Care Center.

The pageant featured Connecticut senior women ages 60 and older and welcomed the community to celebrate contestants from a variety of senior living facilities, senior centers and long-term skilled nursing homes.

The pageant, which was held Nov. 12, was designed to keep seniors “engaged with their peers and community as COVID-19 continues to loom and social distancing is still very much in focus,” according to organizers. Online submission through email provided the platform for contestants to be nominated for the quest for the crown. Contestants submitted a video introduction of themselves, a life motto, biggest joy of life, and a talent.

“Seniors need a way to feel connected and this was a terrific way to do it,” said Leanne Coppola, admissions director at Hamden Rehabilitation and Health Care Center. “This event that celebrates them and connects them together. It was so nice to see the contestants and their families celebrating and enjoying one another. We are already looking forward to next year.”

Contestants were grouped by decade for judging by a list of local celebrity judges including WTNH News 8’s Alyssa Taglia, who also served as host of the party, and the current Miss Connecticut, Amanda Torchia, along with members of the community who dedicate themselves to better the lives of Connecticut residents.

Winners were crowned in grand fashion at the party while sipping champagne and mingling with fellow contestants and community members, according to organizers.

“What a wonderful way to put a new face on what seniors look like these days and showcase their full and interesting lives and accomplishments,” said Janet Capozzola, program coordinator of the New Fairfield Senior Center. “It’s so important to send this message to the community and to younger generations.”

ProCare LTC, Long Term Care Pharmacy Services was the Gold Sponsor of the event. VNA Community Healthcare and Hospice provided the champagne for the event.

“We are so thrilled to provide this exciting and engaging event for Connecticut senior women,” said Michelle Riley, outreach manager at Hamden Rehabilitation and Health Care Center. “Our hope was to bring people together for some fun and friendly competition. It so important to stay connected and learn about these wonderful women and their lives, families, and interests. Today’s celebration was nothing more than magical and the smiles and joy in the room told the story we hoped for.”

Jaye Anderson (70s CT Golden Girl Winner), said: "I am honored to be CT Golden Girl for the 70 Years Old Group. It was a breathtaking experience of my life and I thank you very much."

Coleen Krempel (60's CT Golden Girl Winner), said: "The CT Golden Girl Pageant is an excellent and fun way to show everyone how vibrant and energetic women aged 60 and older can be. We have a lot of gusts for life during our golden years!!"

Carol Cario (80's CT Golden Girl Winner), said: "A good shot in the arm. We all need a reason to get dressed up and have a good time."

Joan Gall (Runner Up), said: "Everyone was hospitable and made me feel comfortable and the food was so tasty."