Ms. Senior Mulberry Pageant 2016 showcases senior women’s accomplishments

September 11, 2017

Sue Scanlon, a resident of Mulberry Gardens of Southington, truly was the “golden girl” at the Ms. Senior Mulberry Pageant 2016 held June 3. Not only was she crowned winner of the event that was themed, “Golden Girls Gala,” but she dazzled in her gold shimmering gown. Scanlon, a Pennsylvania native who had an active career and raised five children with her husband, Tom, told emcee Kim Lucey that her secret to longevity was to “keep moving.”

Scanlon, 84, was one of 10 contestants representing Mulberry Gardens of Southington and the Adult Day Center, at 58 Mulberry St., and Mulberry Gardens at Marian Heights Adult Day Center in New Britain. This event, the seventh annual, showcased the women’s backgrounds, personalities and tips for staying young. First runner-up Geraldine “Gerry” Estabrook, also a resident, recommended laughing and “being happy with your family.” Second runner-up Anite St. Merant, who is a member of Marian Heights, credited hard work.

Lucey, the weekend morning news anchor for WFSB Eyewitness News, and all three judges assisted in previous years. They were Kimberly Beaudoin, Mrs. Connecticut USA Universal 2016; Melissa Cole, Emmy-nominated reporter and meteorologist at WFSB; and Kathy Faber, owner of Kathy Faber Designs, a Bristol-based bridal, evening and sophisticated fashion business. Lucey read a short bio about each participant and also asked about their interests.

Other winners included: Most Energetic - Peg Doane; Most Sophisticated - Viola Falcone; Most Photogenic - Ruth Johnson; Miss Bling - Adeline Kuchta; Nicest Eyes - Trudy Main; Nicest Smile - Marion Przywara; and Ms. Congeniality - Rosalind Syrotchen. In their younger years, they had been successful professionals in multiple fields. Contestant Johnson was a registered nurse who worked in the delivery room at the former Bradley Memorial Hospital and was honored in the past as Southington’s “Mother of the Year.” Collectively they raised 44 children and have countless grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Perry Phillips, Mulberry Gardens executive director, and Donna Johnson, activities director, credited the many volunteers, family members and sponsors for the event’s success. “This pageant, which has become a tradition at Mulberry Gardens, gives us the perfect opportunity to showcase the wonderful residents and day center members that are part of our family,” Phillips said. “We are proud of all our contestants and the achievements they have realized in life. They are an amazing group of accomplished women.”

Mulberry Gardens of Southington, a not for profit assisted living, adult day and memory care community, is a member of Hartford HealthCare Senior Services. For more information about Mulberry Gardens of Southington, visit mulberrygardens.org.

Photo by Rusty Kimball
Sue Scanlon, Mulberry Gardens of Southington resident, receives a congratulatory hug from her husband, Tom.