A new princess crowned in Fife

PHILLIPS

Next spring, a new member of royalty will make her debut in Fife. Fife’s Daffodil Princess Anne Phillips was chosen on Oct. 7 to represent the city at the 77th annual Daffodil Festival’s Grand Floral Street Parade in April.  

The parade travels through the cities of Tacoma, Puyallup, Sumner and Orting and consists of approximately 40 floats and more than 80 other entries, including bands, marching and mounted units. The floats are decorated with thousands of fresh-cut daffodils, the 22 princesses and one chosen queen from a surrounding Pierce County high school. Phillips will have the opportunity to compete for the coveted Daffodil Queen position this spring, but for now the high school senior is relishing her new title.

How do you feel about winning this title?

It’s a big responsibility. I’m just really excited I get to represent my community and my school. I can’t wait to make wonderful friends and lasting memories.

How rigorous was the process of applying for this title?

I’ve been planning for the actual selection since last May. Throughout the competition, lots of girls dropped out until there were about six of us left. During the selection process, I had an interview with mayors of Milton and Fife. I also had to give a speech with the theme “carousel of spring,” and had to answer an impromptu question.

What compelled you to apply for this title?

I met a lot of former princesses and they were all people I really looked up to. I knew I wanted to represent my community and school in that way.

n Did you have any expetations? What surprised you?

I guess I didn’t realize that this title would give me tons of opportunities. I knew there was a parade and that I would get to be a part of it, but I get to do so much more. Just planning for the parade, I have to go to princess lessons in February and go to a lot of community events. I also just got fitted for my dress. I found out that I get to wear it about 35 times.  

What made you choose Cody McKenzie as your escort?

He has always been someone that I can count on. I knew that he would be up for it.

What are your plans for next year?

I would like to attend a four-year university. I want to be an elementary school teacher.

What do your friends think of your new title?

They are really excited for me. They listened to me practice my speech so many times and it’s funny, because they had it memorized by the end, too. So they said if I forgot it during the competition, they could get me back on track.

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