It's Good To Be Queen

The start of a new year means many things in East Texas. Charities and organizations begin planning for upcoming events, and the Texas Rose Festival is no exception. BSCENE had the opportunity to chat with the 2012 Queen of the Texas Rose Festival, Haley Anderson. There is a lot to be done in the months leading up to the October festival, but Anderson is up for the challenge.

Q: When did you first hear that you would be involved in the Festival?
A: I was sitting with my parents and they just kind of came out with it and told me – I was shocked. I was home over Thanksgiving break... My family and I were sitting on the back porch said, ‘Well, we have something to tell you ... Do you know what time of year it is?’ I replied: ‘Christmas is coming up... I don’t know?’ They laughed and answered, ‘You were asked to be the Rose Queen!” I was totally surprised, and for a moment I thought they were kidding. So, its very exciting! Afterward, this year’s president, Tim Alexander, came over to our house and asked me, officially. It was a really fun day, just spending time with him and my family, asking questions and finding out what was going to be in store for me.

Q: What is your past involvement with the Festival?
A: Well, I personally haven’t taken part in it up until now. My sister, Winn, was a train bearer when she was young, and last year she was the Duchess of the Texas Rose Festival... There are also many of my family members that have been involved, including my mom. In my entire family, we’ve had a several queens, and my mother was a train bearer and lady in waiting, as well.

Q: Have they explained what you will be doing and what being Queen of The Texas Rose Festival entails?
A: Officials from the Rose Festival and I have spoken, and I know that I’m representing Tyler and am acting as an ambassador for Tyler, East Texas and the rose industry … Morgan Rippy, the Queen last year, and I attend the University of Alabama together and we’ve talked a bit about what’s required. So I think I’ll be able to handle things, and I’m looking forward to it. I’m not worried, but I know it’s going to take some commitment and I’m ready. The Texas Rose Festival definitely brings in money to our city and tourists that stay at our hotels and eat at our restaurants. So, that’s great for the area. And, it’s an opportunity to showcase Tyler to the rest of the world.

Q: What do you think about the theme this year?
A: I’m so excited! I think it’s going to be amazing! It’s called "Indochine." It’s all things Asian … from the history, to the cultures and the people and the art. It’s inspired by the magical and fantastic treasures of the East … and the costumes will be so awesome!

Q: What about your dress and your escort?
A: Winn Morton, the designer, and I talked about several ideas for the dress, but we really don’t know quite yet what it will be. But I do know that he’ll make it perfect – whatever he decides to do, I trust it – he’s awesome. Jack Skeen will be my escort. We went to All Saints together since fourth grade ... I’ve known him [seemingly] forever. He’s one of my best friends, and he’ll be a great escort.

Q: What events are you most looking forward to?
A: I love meeting new people! There’s about a thousand volunteers, and I would love to meet anyone who is helping with the whole process; I think that’s so interesting and great of people to help out. I like making new friends. So, I’m excited about meeting the out-of-town court and all the people I will be working with. I’m also really looking forward to the Queen’s Tea, because I watched my sister do it last year. It looked really fun having all the little children coming up to you! It’s going to be interesting and completely thrilling!