LAS VEGAS — Cherie Kidd was first runner-up at the Ms. Senior Universe pageant in Las Vegas last weekend, matching a feat she achieved at the Ms. Senior USA pageant in June.
Kidd, a third-term Port Angeles City Council member and former mayor, earned second place in a week-long competition for women over 60 in the Saxe Theater at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas.
Kidd encourages seniors to use their experience, knowledge and talents to mentor and encourage future generations.
“It is our time to shine, serve and share our abilities to become the volunteers who make a difference in our communities,” Kidd said after returning to Port Angeles.
The Ms. Senior Universe pageant included interviews, a talent competition, evening gown walk and philosophy of life speech.
Kidd, who holds the title of Ms. Pacific Northwest, wore a red, white and blue taffeta ballgown beaded by Belva Body of Black Diamond Bridal that “elegantly represented the patriotic Northwest USA,” she said.
In the talent competition, Kidd performed an original-choreographed dance to Justin Timberlake’s “Can’t Stop the Feeling.”
Sherry Strother of Biloxi, Miss., an author, motivational speaker and Ms. Native America, was crowned 2019 Ms. Senior Universe. If Strother is unable to complete her duties during the next year, Kidd would be asked to fulfill the title and responsibilities of Ms. Senior Universe.
Kidd will represent the Pacific Northwest at national events for seniors and volunteers, including International Women’s Day at the United Nations in New York City in March.
Kidd, a Port Angeles native, is past president of Soroptimist International Noon Club. She said she has used the Soroptimist’s advocacy for women and girls as a platform.
Kidd also has served as past president of the Kiwanis Noon Club, as had her father, Ray Kidd.
Cherie Kidd is married to Bob Forsberg and owns AAA Affordable Storage and U-Haul.
“I’d like to congratulate Cherie on her accomplishment, Ms. Senior Universe first runner-up,” Port Angeles City Council member Jim Moran said at Tuesday’s meeting.
“It’s quite an accomplishment, and quite an honor for Port Angeles to have you.”
Said Kidd: “It was an honor to represent our area in any way I can.”
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Reporter Rob Ollikainen can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 56450, or at rollikainen@peninsuladailynews.com.