By Shari Ortiz, MCSAP
Ms. Sylvia Boyd of Englewood was crowned Ms. Colorado Senior America at the annual Pageant held on Sunday, April 17, 2016, at the Lakewood Cultural Center. She was crowned by outgoing queen Buddi Boryla, MCSA 2015. Her court consisted of first runner up Sharon Parry of Lone Tree, and second runner up Tina Garcia of Littleton, along with contestants Connie Bobka, Francine Cinquanta, Annette Germinario, Mary Ann Goldsmith, Rene’ Green, Linda Johnson, Patricia Adel Jones, and Shari Ortiz.
Sylvia is a talented, outgoing, optimistic, and glass-overflowing person. She says her favorite quotation is from Auntie Mame, “Life is like a big red apple. . .Take a bite and let the juice run down your chin.” Sylvia sees her life as one of opportunities to help others and make them smile, which shows in her commitment to volunteerism. Her vocal talent is high caliber. She says her parents told her she started to sing before she could talk. This love of music and her passion for sharing it made her a standout in the pageant.
All of the contestants are to be commended for their wonderful presentations in trying to capture the title. Ms. Boyd was voted queen by the distinguished panel of judges Cynthia James, E-Dee Martin, Jessica Mason, Don Satterfield, and Ellie Seligmann. The judging criteria was based on Ms. Boyd’s private interview, her presentation of her Philosophy of Life, her poise as she modeled her evening gown, and of course, her soulful performance of “That’s the Glory of Love,” (Bette Midler’s rendition).
What a spectacular event was the 21st Anniversary of the annual pageant created and produced by Colorado State Pageant Administrator Debbie Buczkowski. The theme, “Portrait of Elegance,” set the stage for an audience-pleasing combination of pageant contestants and entertaining acts all done by the members of the Colorado Cameo Club (made up of all past winners and participants in previous MCSA Pageants).
Lakewood Police Department’s Color Guard opened the ceremony. Well known Former First Lady of Colorado Frances Owens served as Mistress of Ceremonies. The audience was thrilled with the opening number of “Once Upon a Cabaret,” which showcased the talents of 20 of the Colorado Cameo Club’s senior ladies, led by singer/ entertainer Jan Giese-Harley. The contestants debuted in a choreographed number in black cocktail dresses and white picture hats. Later, the audience was treated to a special highlight when contestants showcased their evening gowns by stepping out of an on-stage, beautifully lit picture frame. The 2015 MCSA Buddi Boryla entertained with her playful rendition of “Pontoon.” And, as in all their pageants and showcases, the Cameo Club Ragtimers did their marvelous tambourine routine. Opening the second half, MCSA 2012 Debbie Buczkowski sang while MCSA 2009 Carol Swanson danced in an on-stage garden with swing and park bench. Afterwards the contestants performed their highly diverse talent acts, including singers, dancers, comedy acts, motivational speeches, and even a drummer.
The Pageant is a charitable organization and Cameo club, its supporting arm, performs at various venues throughout the Denver Metro Area. These ladies are to be commended for voluntarily working together to create such a wonderful afternoon of pageantry. To learn more about them and the current queen visit www.colosramerica.com.