America may have a reputation for being obsessed with youth, but as the senior population booms so does the interest in senior beauty pageants. Each year Minnesotans send a delegate to one of the most popular and enduring of these contests: the Ms. Senior America Pageant, now in its 32nd year. This year's contest will be held September 19, 2005 during the Seniors Expo™ at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake. The Seniors Expo™ is produced by Mid-America Events and Expos, Inc.(www.101expos.com).

The Ms. Senior Minnesota Pageant showcases mature women age 60 and over - the 'age of elegance' -- as they defy age-related stereotypes. Despite a few gray hairs, these ladies know how to impress an audience as well as any younger pageant contestant. The pageant involves a talent demonstration and evening gown competition, as well as interviews with the judges. Talents often range from singing, dancing or playing a musical instrument to reciting a favorite poem. Contestants will also describe their philosophy of life for the Seniors Expo™ audience.

The pageant winner receives a trophy, tiara, flowers and a banner declaring her Ms. Minnesota Senior 2005. They will represent Minnesota at the National Senior America Pageant, to be held in Las Vegas, Nevada. A reception immediately following the pageant will give audience members a chance to meet the newly crowned queen, as well as past winners.

Each contestant also is automatically given membership in the exclusive Cameo Club, an organization that provides these ladies with avenues for giving back to their communities. Through the Club, which operates at both a national and state level, the ladies perform for nursing homes, veteran's and children's hospitals and other community and charitable organizations at least once a month.

"The Ms. Senior America philosophy is based on the belief that seniors are the foundation of America, and our most valuable treasures," said Bill Rasmussen, Executive State Director of the Minnesota pageant.

If you are a woman who has reached the 'age of elegance' and you are talented and outgoing, or know someone who fits this description, call Rasmussen at 651-489-3405, or Jeanne Rogers, Assistant State Director at 651-489-9617. The deadline for entries is August 12, 2005.

In addition to the pageant, the Seniors Expo™ features more than 200 unique exhibitors, plus two stages of speakers and entertainment. The Expo hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. Admission is $3 with the half price coupon available on the Web site (www.101expos.com), and free to kids 17 and under when accompanied by an adult.

This year's Seniors Expo sponsors include Medica, Channel 5, Channel 45, Ebenezer and KLBB radio. Mid-America Events and Expos, Inc. also produces the Body Mind Life Expo™, Seniors Spring Show™ and the Women's Home Expo™.

Media note: For further information about the Seniors Expo, or to set up an interview with Bill Rasmussen, or one of this year's Ms. Minnesota Senior America Pageant contestants, contact Media Relations at (507) 665-3067.