Another Senior Idol crowned at Xaverian High School

Another Senior Idol has been crowned.

Brooklyn’s 11^th annual Senior Idol competition took place on Saturday, October 28 and drew some stiff competition from contestants from across the borough.

The event — hosted annually by State Senator Marty Golden in conjunction with Xaverian High School — showcased the talents of 12 local seniors, chosen from 40 who auditioned earlier this year, while also raising money for the parochial school’s always-growing music program.

“This is what the community is all about,” said Golden at the competition, held each year at Xaverian, 7100 Shore Road. Ticket sales help fund Xaverian’s music program through scholarships and the purchase of new instruments.

This year’s 12 finalists included Ron DiVito, Elizabeth Silva, Lillybeth Hanson, Nicholas DeCillis, Gagz Danzo, Cary Weiner, Randy Litz, Maureen Caljean, Lucille Cataldo, Darnlee Browne, Don Coy and John Bonomolo.

Danzo (who performed “Just A Gigolo”) was named runner up, while Browne impressed the panel of judges enough to take home the grand prize — $500.

Browne performed “When I Do My Best,” wowing the judges, who, with help from the audience, helped determine a winner.

Golden, year after year, is impressed not only by the finalists but also by all those who had the guts to audition.

“Our contestants always do an amazing job,” he said. “It’s not easy to get up here and entertain, especially if you’re not an entertainer. This is a great service to the community.”

This year’s competition included a special performance of “Kiss of the Spider Woman” from last year’s Senior Idol Emily Pai.

Senior Idol is open to Kings County residents ages 50 and older.