Mayor Garret Nancolas proclaimed October 19, 2009 to be DiAnne Wilson day in Caldwell.

On Wednesday, October 7th, DiAnne stood with the two most talented, elegant, poised senior women in this nation and awaited the final decision of the judges at Harrah's Resorts and Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The annual national pageant gathers those titled Queen by their states, and DiAnne won the title of Ms. Idaho Senior America 2009 on May 2nd in the city of Ketchum near Idaho’s breathtaking Sawtooth National Recreation Area.

The pageant began with a day of preliminaries, including an evening gown competition, the presentation of each Queen’s philosophy of life, the performance of their talent, and a five-minute interview with the panel of judges. DiAnne was proud to have found both her dark teal satin gown for the competition and her yellow gown for the pageant’s opening number at Fashion Extra in Caldwell where she lives and works. Her work as the administrative assistant to the Caldwell Chief of Police allowed her to draw rapport with the panel of judges during the five-minute interview. DiAnne explained that she does wear a badge and uniform but isn’t given a gun. Other questions about her home state and would-be role as Ms. Senior America allowed DiAnne to promote her quick smile and brilliant attitude with the answer that she would represent the title as a woman who is warm, outgoing, loves to meet people, and full of energy. When asked how she would promote herself if given the title, DiAnne responded that she would rather find success in the people helped by her reign. Rather than focus on herself she would continue to delight in the enjoyment and happiness she brings when she performs. Of the panel interview, DiAnne said, “you’d be surprised how many questions five judges can ask in five minutes.”

On the final day of competition, DiAnne stepped forward has her name was announced eight in the selection of the top ten. This moment became a benchmark for her to relax and have fun with the rest of the evening, for making the top ten had been her highest expectation on her first trip to nationals. The top ten entertained the crowd with the performance of their talents. DiAnne sang “I Can’t Say No” from the musical Oklahoma and felt she had done well. One of the scary moments for her was arriving at the competition and meeting all the other women. She quickly made friends and came to know that a fair few of the women were professional singers, dancers, or models. Again DiAnne’s winning attitude set her apart when answering an impromptu question from the judges. She attributed her reaching the top ten to her faith in God and her ability to overcome adversity. Whatever has come along, she found the strength to just keep going she answered to the applause of the crowd. The group of ten women became five, DiAnne with them. She felt sure the 4th Runner up title would be hers, but 4th went to another. Then 3rd went to another, and DiAnne stood with the just two others as she became the 2nd Runner up to Ms. Senior America 2009.

Photos and details may be seen at www.senioramerica.org.

A celebration to honor Sergeant Jim Watson’s 20 years of outstanding service was held on Friday, March 27th in the Community Room of the Caldwell Police Station.

Chief Chris Allgood praised Jim Watson for his work ethic and dedication to do a great job. Jim was described as solid as a rock and an officer who doesn’t get shaken. Chief Allgood noted that Jim is and always has been ahead of the curve with customer service skills because he spent years in the grocery business before joining law enforcement.

Chief Allgood presented a 20-Year Service Plaque, Senior Sergeant Bars, and a gold shield. Jim offered, “A sincere and humble thank you to all the family at CPD. Thanks.”