This is the 20th year for the Annual Ms. Senior Mesquite Pageant. The five contestants spend every Wednesday evening preparing for the competition, which will be held May 2 in the Mesquite Community Theatre at 4 p.m.

Becky Boyed, Ms. Senior Mesquite administrator, along with past queens and yearly volunteer helpers, meets with contestants and gives them tips on what to expect at the competition. The ladies are helped to find gowns and prepare their speeches.

Contestant Tricia Schield said, “I am running because Becky talked me into it.”

Sharon Bevans said, “I have only heard positive remarks from past contestants, so I want the positive experience, too, and to grow.”

“I was encouraged by my friends to enter. It is fun, and I like connecting with the community,” Cheryle Kilker informed.

Irene Johnson said, “This is stepping out of the box for me,” and Darlene McKay said, “Friends encouraged me to run. It seems like a good way to meet new people.”

The Ms. Senior Mesquite Pageant was started by Jean Watkins — the very first Ms. Senior Mesquite 20 years ago. Since then, there have been four queens who have won the Ms. Senior Nevada title, making them eligible to compete for the Ms. Senior America title. The latest winner was Bronzie Dabney in 2024.

The ladies will be judged on a four-part competition: 30% interviews, 20% on their philosophy of life, 30% on talent and 20% on evening gown presentation and poise.

The pageant being presented in May is patterned after the national Ms. Senior America pageant, with all the elegance, glamour and entertainment.