By james art 
When visitors entered the Titusville Public Library on a recent Wednesday, a red carpet was rolled out along the way. The ambient sounds of Kenny G filled the air, and near the distribution desk, a black and gold balloon arch framed a makeshift stage with a cascade of strings lined with foil stars.
It was the site of the first-ever Miss Senior Titusville Library Pageant. Birmingham women aged 55 and over were invited to compete for the honor of being Queen of this popular neighborhood library.
“Through this competition, we recognize and honor the rich narratives, multifaceted talents and remarkable contributions of our senior participants,” said Branch Manager Reba Williams. She often hosts many events geared toward seniors, including fitness classes, gardening tips, and book clubs.
A crowd of mostly senior citizens gathered in the library, a parade of people dressed in all their Sunday best, from full suits and sequined dresses to T-shirts and blue jeans. They stepped forward with pride, many with walkers, canes and even a scooter. And in true old man fashion, one visitor handed out a Ziploc bag full of cinnamon candies and mints, saying, “Have some.”
The reigning Miss Senior Jefferson County 2024, Victoria Clark Thomas, was the master of ceremonies. “People don’t get old because they get old,” she told the crowd. “They get old because they stop doing things they used to do when they were young.”
Four gorgeous women of a certain age competed for the crown: Patricia Russell Hendricks, Debra Japol, Rosia Underwood and Andrea Whitfield. One by one they emerged from double doors sandwiched between the flagpole and the bookcase.
The audience of more than 50 in attendance swooned and gasped as each woman made her push.
“Okay now.”
“Go girl.”
“Do a thong.”
The categories were Activewear, Talent and Evening Gown. The women glided, strutted and swayed, showing off a variety of sequin and pearl creations, fringe, Afro-centric dresses, a pink cowboy hat and even a construction outfit accented with a working drill. They performed praise dances and recited original poems. One shined on Mary J.’s “Feeling Fine.” Blige, and another showed off his original artwork.
Sitting in the crowd was Sharon Tate of Titusville. “I think that’s wonderful,” she said. “It gives seniors a chance to express themselves, be themselves and motivate other seniors.”
Eventually, the judges of three community leaders tallied their scores and the winner was announced: “Andrea Whitfield!”
Dressed in a one-shoulder black gown with silver rhinestones, the radiant 70-year-old flashed a beaming smile and accessorized with a headpiece that would be the envy of any Miss America pageant.
“Being in the Titusville community always gives me the opportunity to do and represent the town in any way I can,” said the grandmother, a golfer, writer and retired teacher. “It’s a favor and I’m a servant to the city of Birmingham.”
Her secret to glowing beauty and an active life?
“Enjoy life,” she said. “Slow down and enjoy every moment. Life is a celebration. You’re not looking for things that will take your breath away. You look for things that TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY.”