The Age of Elegance

Here are some photos taken by Debby Berger, which were in the PHOTO GALLERY , an online news publication, by THE TIMES, OF TRENTON, on Friday, June 5th. Many thanks to Debby for her coverage. Pianist Elva Lawrence, MSNJSA 1987, played a medley of popular songs that had the audience singing along. Operatic soprano, Josephine Araniti, MSNJSA 2007, sang "Signore, Ascolta", from Puccini's opera, TURANDOT. Emcee Helen Halpin McCarney, MSSA 2005, did several comedy routines. Here she is, imitating the legendary, comedian, Jimmy Durante. The following are the Talent Presentations from the Class of 2009, (not necessarily in this order): Not pictured is Eileen T. Renders, nutritionist, Egg Harbor Township. "A Presentation of Health Issues". Barby Jo Crema, singer, Oceanville. "The Best From This Moment On". Judith Webster, singer, Mahwah. "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Out Of My Hair". Barbara Ross, tap dancer, Southampton. "42nd Street"...

Last year, Harrah's Resort and Casino became the new home of the MS NEW JERSEY SENIOR AMERICA PAGEANT. This year, the 2009 pageant was held on Thursday, June 4th. Elegant ladies 60 years old and over, came from different parts of the Garden State, and graced the stage of the Concert Venue Theater. The pageant began with a patriotic salute led by the Atlantic City High School Junior ROTC, and a stirring rendition of "God Bless America", was sung by New Jersey State Pageant Director, Johanne Santori. Helen Halpin McCarney served as Mistress of Ceremonies, and was assisted by Johanne Santori. A comedienne and fabulous entertainer, Helen's comedy routines, songs and impersonations brought the house down with laughter. At 93 years young, pianist Elva Lawrence, MS NEW JERSEY SENIOR AMERICA 1987, delighted the audience with a surprise medley of songs, and had everyone clapping and singing along. Choreographer Melanie Brough staged a clever number for the contestants to the s...

Thirteen elegant ladies from the Class of 2009 had the opportunity to meet each at a luncheon that was sponsored by the New Jersey Senior America Cameo Club. The event was held at The Regency at Dover in Toms River, on Monday, May 18th. The luncheon was organized by President Delores Puzio, and committee, which included Lyn Gibson, vice-president, Cathy Clark, secretary, and Doris Criscione, treasurer. Also in attendance, was New Jersey State Pageant Director, Johanne Santori. This reporter spoke to several ladies afterward, by phone and asked them to comment on the luncheon and the upcoming pageant. Johanne Santori: All the ladies this year possess brains, poise, talent and beauty. Their preliminary interviews were so impressive ... each lady has a different, yet impressive resume. I expect great things from them all! Delores Puzio: I was very impressed at the friendliness of all the ladies at the luncheon. They talked to each other very easily, and were supportive of one another. The...