WESTFIELD-Kim Starsiak “loves” being a part of the Miss Westfield Fair Pageant.
“I’ve been involved with the pageant since I was 4,” said Starsiak, noting that was more than 40 years ago.
Starsiak, who owns and is the artistic director for the All-Stars Dance Center on Root Road, has been serving as pageant director for three years.
Kim Starsiak serves as director of the Miss Westfield Fair Pageant. (Submitted photo)
“I enjoy this role because it gives everybody an opportunity to really be a positive part of the community,” she said.
The pageant will take place Aug. 17 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. during the Westfield Fair on Russellville Road. The deadline to complete a registration form is Aug. 15.
Starsiak noted the pageant encompasses formal wear, sportswear, talent and photogenic categories.
“They start at age 3 months, male or female, and we even have Mrs. Pioneer Valley for 30 years and up,” said Starsiak, adding, “Anyone who loves their community should give it a try.”
Meghan Lacas, who was crowned Miss Westfield 2018, has made community service a top priority in her life. She is the daughter of Tracy and Robert Lacas. Currently, she is finishing U.S. Army National Guard basic training at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri. After basic training, she plans to major in criminal justice at Westfield State University and participate in the ROTC program.
“Meghan has always been involved in community service,” said Tracy Lacas, adding her daughter graduated as a sergeant from the Westfield Police Youth Cadets Program.
Meghan Lacas, who was crowned Miss Westfield 2018, is seen with her mother, Tracy Lacas, at the Westfield Fair. Tracy Lacas had competed in the Mrs. Pioneer Valley competition. (Submitted photo)
Lacas noted she had “suggested” the pageant to Meghan since she was also a competitive dancer.
“Meghan can do the glitz and glamour and be serious,” said Lacas. “I think it’s important to open the doors and show our kids different experiences to try. Being involved in the community is beneficial for everyone.”
Lacas also walked the talk and entered the Mrs. Pioneer Valley category. While she didn’t win, Lacas said, “I was way out of my comfort zone but was excited to do something with my daughter.”
Lacas said Meghan is a “very humble person” and is most proud when she is giving back to her community, which included representing the city as Miss Westfield during the past year.
“She cherishes the moments being involved as Miss Westfield,” said Lacas.
Nicole Della Ripa, now 12, shared a similar sentiment. She was crowned Miss Pioneer Valley 2018 and is the daughter of Elaine and Angelo Della Ripa.
“I was a little nervous at first when I heard about the pageant,” said Della Ripa, who is a competitive dancer. She will be attending Westfield Middle School in the fall.
Nicole Della Ripa, who was crowned Miss Pioneer Valley 2018 at the Westfield Fair, encourages young people to participate in the annual pageant. (Submitted photo)
Della Ripa said she was “really excited” when her name was announced as the winner.
“It’s a really big honor,” said Della Ripa. “As Miss Pioneer Valley I’ve marched in the Big E Parade, the Veterans’ Day Parade, and attended festivals in the city including Westfield Food Fest and the PumpkinFest.”
Della Ripa added that because of this role, it has opened her eyes to become more involved in new opportunities.
“I would encourage others to enter the pageant,” said Della Ripa, adding, “It’s a really fun thing to do.”
Starsiak concurred.
“It’s a chance to win a cash scholarship, have the honor of being crowned a queen or king in your community, and give back to your community,” said Starsiak. “It truly takes a village to make great people and I love, love, love giving back.”
Starsiak also encouraged adults to enter the Mrs. Pioneer Valley category.
“Adults should consider being a part because it helps get them out of their comfort zone and show them that with a little perseverance, anything is possible,” said Starsiak.
For more details about the pageant and to receive a registration form, contact Starsiak at (413) 572-1122. Messages can also be sent to Starsiak via the Westfield Fair Pageant Facebook page.
