Apple Blossom royalty visit state Capitol

Senate portrait header

March 23, 2017

at desk on floor


Dear Friends and Neighbors,

It doesn’t feel much like spring at the state Capitol, with all the gray skies and above-average rainfall we’re having. That’s why I was especially glad to host this year’s Apple Blossom Royalty in Olympia this week. Just the words “Apple Blossom Festival” make me think of orchards, fields, the smell of blossoms – and our usual warm, sunny weather back home.

I appreciate how the Washington State Apple Blossom Festival sends its royalty as ambassadors to locations and events throughout the state (including our Legislature) to promote our traditions and agricultural heritage. It was an honor for me to sponsor the Senate resolution honoring the Apple Blossom Festival (scroll down to see the formal resolution) and a great pleasure to get to know this year’s Royal Court: Queen Amy Sand, Princess Alissa Riker, and Princess Paige Chvilicek.

This year the queen and princesses met with Representative Steele, Representative Condotta, Secretary of State Kim Wyman, and Governor Jay Inslee. I also appreciated being able to introduce a group of such bright and graceful young women to many of my legislative colleagues, as representatives of our region. To top it off, the ladies proudly distributed Aplets and Cotlets throughout the Capitol.

with Court on Senate floor

2017 Apple Blossom Royalty Song and Interview

Once again, the Royal Court’s visit to Olympia included the debut of their “royalty song” about the festival. This year it’s to the tune of a recent Justin Timberlake hit -- click here to enjoy the video of their performance

I also interviewed the queen and princesses in the Capitol Rotunda about their day at the Capitol and the Apple Blossom Festival; click here for the video.

Court with Gov, Rep. Steele

Secretary of State Helps Register Royalty to Vote

Among the highlights of the day was the time spent with Secretary of State Kim Wyman. One member of the Royal Court registered to vote while she was at Secretary Wyman’s office, and two pre-registered – which state law allows for 17-year-olds who will turn 18 by Election Day. It’s rewarding to see young people showing such interest in their state government.

While they certainly had a full day in Olympia, Queen Amy, Princess Alissa and Princess Paige handled the whirlwind of activity and appearances with smiles and laughter. As the Senate resolution put it, they “exemplified the spirit and meaning of the Apple Blossom Festival.”

I enjoyed being able to host them and appreciate everyone in the Wenatchee Valley who sponsors and supports the Apple Blossom Festival. The 2017 festival, which goes from April 27 to May 7, will indeed be "Awesome Blossom"!

Apple Blossom resolution

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you!

It is my great privilege to serve as your state senator. If you have any questions or comments, please contact my office anytime using the information below. If you are planning a trip to Olympia and would like to visit the Capitol Building, I would be happy to connect with you or your group when you are here.

I encourage you to share this newsletter with friends and family; they may subscribe using the information below my contact information. Thank you for allowing me to represent you in Olympia!

Sincerely,

signature

Brad Hawkins

State Senator Brad Hawkins
12th Legislative District
E-mail: brad.hawkins@leg.wa.gov 

Website: senatorbradhawkins.org

107 Newhouse Building - P.O. Box 40412 | Olympia, WA 98504-0412
(360) 786-7622 or Toll-free: (800) 562-6000