PORT TOWNSEND — Three 2005 Rhododendron Festival royalty hopefuls made their pitch for the crown to the Port Townsend Chamber of Commerce during a Valentine’s Day luncheon meeting.
Festival queen candidates Alisha Blake, Magdalena Quintana and Sarah Lake charmed chamber members with their bright smiles and deep thoughts.
They focused on the difference between influencing and befriending people as they highlighted the weekly chamber meeting at The Commons at Fort Worden State Park.
The 70th Rhododendron Festival, with the theme, “A Touch of Elegance,” runs May 14-21 in Port Townsend.
The queen will be joined by her court, traveling the state, representing Port Townsend on a float at 13 parades throughout the year.
Coronation next month
The queen’s coronation takes place next month.
Shawna Smith, representing the Rhododendron Festival steering committee, introduced the 17-year-old candidates to the chamber audience of about 50.
Two of the candidates, Blake and Quintana, are Port Townsend High School juniors. Lake is a home-schooled student.
Speaking briefly about interests and hobbies, Quintana said she enjoys snowboarding and had been involved in Associated Student Body leadership since third grade.
Blake also is involved in ASB and enjoys snowboarding, cross-country running and track.
Lake told chamber members about her participation in Sea Scouts, her interests in fencing and involvement in church.
Influencing people
All three said influencing people is an important task, which in the end may pay off with long-lasting friendships.
