NEW BERLIN – A tradition that’s more than half-a-century old, the New Berlin Youth Days took to the stage in style last night with the 51st annual Miss Youth Days Pageant, a celebration of the town’s – and surrounding municipalities – aspiring fashionistas.

Miss Youth Days Pageant organizer Sheila Randall, who’s been involved with the popular event for 15 years now, said this year’s contestants – as always – were in high spirits. A total of 20 young ladies participated in the annual beauty pageant, in three categories: Little Miss Youth Days, Junior Miss Youth Days and Miss Youth Days. The contestants are judged on their presentation, appearance, interview and personality.

“This is a young group, but they’re definitely high-spirited,” said Randall. “It’s something I enjoy doing ... I really enjoy working with the youth.”

Master of Ceremonies Gene Chilion praised Randall’s dedication to the event, which drew approximately 60 family members and friends of contestants to the Unadilla Valley Central School auditorium.

“She [Randall] does an outstanding job,” said Chilion. “It’s all about having fun and all the girls are winners. Sheila does an amazing job.”