The Newton County community was abuzz with excitement following the crowning of Katherine Barnes Stevens as Ms. Senior Newton County last Sunday. The annual pageant, which is a highlight for Newton County Senior Services, celebrated the theme "Beyond Beauty, Grace and Wisdom" this year, showcasing the talents and elegance of its participants to a captivated audience.
All six contestants brought a special flair to the competition, however it was Stevens, an 83-year-old mother and grandmother, who won the title. Her performance, which involved reading a poem "I am fine. Just fine" before moving the crowd with a dance to Mary J. Blige, won her the crown, according to Newton County's official announcement. The event not only provided entertainment but also rallied support for vital senior programs and was deemed a significant success by organizers.
A spirited performance featuring a praise dance to The Lord's Prayer earned Jennifer Little the first-runner up spot, while a three-way tie for second-runner up highlighted the talents of Sybil McNicholas, Maxine Anita Kee, and Colette "Toots" Brooks, each delivering dynamic musical routines. Kee stood out with her energetically charged dance to James Brown's hit and was also celebrated as Ms. Congeniality, while Sheila Cooksey's liturgical dance clinched her the Ms. Talent title.
Newton County Senior Services expressed its gratitude for the evening's Master of Ceremony Kenneth Hardeman, and performers Shemeika Banks and Michael Scott, who provided the musical backdrop alongside pianist Leila Elkins. The discerning judges' panel consisted of local dignitaries including Linda Hays, Stephanie Finnie, Ron Carter, Lori Brennan, and Rev. Cynthia Marks, their decision-making crucial in determining the night's winners.
All funds raised from the pageant are set to enhance programs for seniors at the Josephine B. Brown Senior Center and the upcoming Newton County Senior Enrichment Center. The support and participation from the community, sponsorships, was essential, with the Board of Directors for the Senior Center’s nonprofit, Newton County Senior Services, Inc., extending heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to heralding the valuable presence of seniors in Newton County.
