Thursday, October 1, 2026
A Rockville Centre resident for more than 17 years, Ellie Passalacqua will take part in the annual Ms. Senior New York America pageant on May 6.
The pageant, part of the Ms. Senior America national organization, is designed for women 60 and over, judging contestants in four categories: their interview, evening gown, “philosophy of life” statement and a talent presentation.
Passalacqua was inspired to participate in the pageant after meeting some former contestants who perform with the “Seasoned Steppers” dance group. “They have such a zest for life and expressing it through performing,” Passalacqua said. “I wanted to become part of a group that celebrates the wisdom and joy that comes with age, and sharing it.”
Music has always been an important part of Passalacqua’s life — she has sung with church choirs and choral groups for a years after having learned to play the accordion and clarinet as a child.
In the 1960s, Passalacqua served in the Women’s Army Corps, after which she worked in Manhattan for 25 years as an assistant to the publications division director of an engineering society. Recently, Passalacqua has become involved in community service
“I am active in the social ministry activities and choir at Holy Trinity Church in Rockville Centre,” Passalacqua said, “and I volunteer time at the New Life Center in Uniondale, a food pantry and community outreach program.”
There are 13 contestants set to compete in the Ms. Senior New York America Pageant 2012, which will be held at Lindenhurst High School and will run from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Tickets cost $25 per person and can be obtained from Dolores Meglio, who can be reached at (631) 249-0258.
Passalacqua is excited about her opportunity to perform in the pageant.
“It is a search for the gracious lady who best exemplifies the dignity, maturity, and inner beauty of all senior Americans,” Passalacqua said. “It is upon their knowledge, experience and resources that the younger generation has an opportunity to build a better society.”
