Texas Rose Festival 2024 Souvenir Magazine

PUBLISHED BY

Best Wishes to Queen Franny Faulconer & the Texas Rose Festival Court!

We proudly support our Wagner Cadillac family, Texas Rose Festival President, Mr. Bill Evans.

PHOTO BY JAMES FRENCH

Photo by James French Photography

2024 SOUVENIR MAGAZINE

The 2024 Texas Rose Festival Souvenir Magazine pays tribute to the participants, volunteers and events of “Fanfare of Festivals.”

President | Stephen McHaney

publisher | Justin Wilcox

sales managers | Tracy Stopani and Donna Valentine

Managing Editor | Santana Wood

publication Editor | Santana Wood

publication Designer | Haley Holcomb-Capps

Project Manager | Paula White

writers | Katecey Harrell, Jennifer Scott, Raquel Villatoro, Santana Wood

photographers | James French Photography, Les Hassell, Jennifer Scott

ADVERTISING SALES | Alyson Durst, Kelly Benton, Kerri Esposito, Paula White, Sonorah Duty, Stuart James, Suzie Wheeler, Zoie Perry

on the cover | Texas Rose Festival Queen Frances Olivia Faulconer

cover Photography by | James French Photography

Cover Design by | Haley Holcomb-Capps

special thanks | James French Photography, Texas Rose Festival Association, Liz Ballard, Belinda Short, Patricia Johnson, Lynda Evans, and Elizabeth Boone

Celebrating 91 Years

The Texas Rose Festival

Princess Merritt Elizabeth Dial

Queen Frances Olivia Faulconer

Duchess of the Rose Growers Alice Elizabeth Milton

Photos By James French Photography

Emerson Blair Edwards

Mark Thomas Land, Jr.

John Keller Lahourcade

Grace Lindsey Peveto

Camilla Rose Swann

Reeves Parker Bankston

Styles Jax Morris

Vivian Kate Deere

Mary Helen Caton Harley Jayne Kay Cooper

Tate Elise Elfarr

Frances Mygnone Foley

Landry Kathryn Guy

Caelyn Dru Kisamore

Emma Lien-Nagle

Emma Joyce Lindsey

Lily Isabelle Hammer

Claire Bergfeld Lofquist

Katherine Elizabeth Sharkey

Annabelle Kelly Nowlin

Martha Claire Patterson Riley Brooke Rayzor

Lawrence Lewis Loggins

Eva Grace Meads

Kollins Jean Tucker

Talina Kate Vargas

Macy Caroline Smith

Caroline Slone Twaddell

Caroline Nicole Wells Kasey Lynn Wright

PHOTO BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGR APHY

ROSE ROYALTY

The Texas Rose Festival celebrates Tyler’s rose-growing heritage and the beauty of the rose, the most splendid flower of all. This year’s Queen is Miss Frances “Franny” Olivia Faulconer, daughter of Mr. Galen Faulconer and the late Dr. Renée Yvette Faulconer. Serving as Princess is Miss Merritt Elizabeth Dial, daughter of Mr. David Dial and Mrs. Michelle Dial. Joining the Queen and Princess is the Duchess of the Rose Growers, Miss Alice Elizabeth Milton, daughter of

Dr. Mark Milton and Mrs. Nicole Milton (stepmother), and Mrs. Lori Carver and Tim Carver (stepfather).

The Queen's Court also includes Ladiesin-Waiting from Tyler families, out-of-town Duchesses, Escorts and the children who serve as the Queen's Attendants.

The festival's traditions are all about celebrating Tyler, the Rose Capital of America.

The rose industry has been a part of Tyler for more than 100 years.

Miss Faulconer blooms bright as Texas Rose Festival Queen

KATECEY HARRELL kharrell@tylerpaper.com

Many of Frances "Franny" Olivia Faulconer's relatives have participated in the Texas Rose Festival, but she is the first to be named Rose Queen — an honor in which she takes great pride.

Although there’s quite the list of family involvement, "No past queens. I'm the first of the family, and I'm also the last grandkid,” said Queen Falconer, daughter of Mr. Galen Faulconer and the late Dr. Renée Yvette Faulconer.

Family members who have participated in the festival include father Galen Faulconer as an escort, sister Caroline Faulconer, as a lady-in-waiting, brothers Grayson and Clayton Faulconer as escorts, cousins Clark Faulconer as an escort, Sara Faulconer and Lauren Sands as duchesses; aunts Sara Sands (Faulconer) and Catherine Faulconer (Clark) as ladies-in-waiting, and uncle Grant Faulconer as an escort.

Queen Faulconer has many fond memories of the festival.

She remembers the dedication of her late mother Renée, who volunteered with the festival through various capacities including as Kickoff Party Co-Chairman, backstage as Order of Appearance and Hospitality. She also helped on the Rose Show Committee and Ladies Luncheon Committee. Her father, Mr. Faulconer, has been a member of Order of the Rose.

Queen Faulconer also looks back positively on her siblings' participation, her aunts’ lady-in-waiting dresses and her time as a royal attendant to 2015 Rose Queen Madeline Wynne.

Seeing Wynne left such a strong impression that Faulconer realized this was something she wanted to do.

"I thought, ‘Oh my gosh, this queen is the queen of the world,’" Faulconer said. "That was probably where I first was like, I'm obsessed with this."

Her childhood experience with the festival had always been

PHOTOS

Frances Olivia Faulconer

PHOTO BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

Texas Rose Festival Queen

Frances Olivia Faulconer

she plans to introduce to her own children someday.

Faulconer was born and raised in Tyler and is a Baylor University junior majoring in interior design. She is a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma at Baylor and has taken on multiple roles within her sorority. She is engaged with the sorority’s mental health philanthropy, where

TEXAS ROSE FESTIVAL

she visits an elementary school in Waco weekly to support and educate young students on mental health and overall well-being. She also serves as the sorority's T-shirt coordinator.

As a creative person with an eye for design, Faulconer has enjoyed the opportunity to help design her Texas Rose Festival dress. Designed by Jacob A. Climer, Faulconer received his initial design then personalized it to reflect her own style.

QUEEN >> PAGE 15

SKETCHES BY JACOB A. CLIMER

ROSE QUEEN Queen

Continued From Page 13

Serving as queen is a role that takes place all year long ahead of the October festival. With festivities beginning as early as January, Queen Faulconer said the most memorable experience was during practices for the coronation. Even though she had attended many coronations before, being present for the practices was a new level of excitement. Watching all the girls rehearse and perform their bows was incredible.

Getting up from the floor while wearing the dresses can be pretty challenging, though. To prepare for this, she went to the gym and did lunges.

"It's a lot to pull up. You don't expect it because you don't think of the weight of the dress, getting up off the floor," Faulconer said. "You have a crown on and stuff. It's crazy how these headpieces can stay on, and you can balance and get up, but they don't move."

Faulconer said the festival has helped preserve the community by bringing people together. Many are eager to get involved, and because it is volunteer-based, the tradition fosters unity. It encourages everyone to support one another and also promotes local businesses.

Behind the scenes, countless efforts and intricate planning go into making festivals happen.

During the summer, various activities like the summer kickoff party are held, when participants have the opportunity to meet out-of-town guests, including escorts and other participants. It's an exciting experience getting to know everyone who comes to Tyler, Faulconer said.

Alongside multiple dress fittings for the coronation, there are also community-focused efforts, such as food drives and other activities to support the community. Being involved has allowed for deeper connections and opportunities to help others.

Queen Faulconer was just 16 when she lost her mother to cancer. The loss had a profound impact on her life. What stands out most from that time is how the Tyler community rallied around her family. The incredible support they received deepened her love for the city.

Her mom had been actively involved with the Rose Festival, volunteering many times. The festival's significance to her mother and the community's support during their toughest moments following her death has profoundly shaped Faulconer and strengthened her connection to the Rose City.

The opportunity to serve as queen and being selected means a great deal to her. Throughout this year-long process, Queen Faulconer has witnessed how much it has brought the community together. It has also made her more knowledgeable about Tyler. She now knows far more about the city now than she ever thought she could.

It's not just about roses; the industry has had a significant impact on the city. People are drawn to Tyler after attending the Rose Festival — many want to retire here or make it their home. She's gained a deeper understanding of how the rose industry helped shape the city into what it is today.

As a naturally shy person, she found the role helped her come out of her shell, improving her social skills and confidence, especially with public speaking. Her biggest challenge was overcoming stage fright. She struggled with speaking in front of large crowds, but through repeated experiences during this role, she managed to overcome this fear.

She believes these skills will benefit her professionally and in daily life. She values the impact serving the community has had on her personally and intends to continue contributing to Tyler even after her current role ends.

"When I was little doing it, I never knew what the Texas Rose Festival did and what it meant to our community. I definitely want them to know the meaning behind it. It's not just a festival. We don't just wear cute dresses and be princesses," Faulconer said. "I hope those little kids were inspired and want to give back to our community. I hope they want to serve this community and see the greatness that we get to see as we're older."

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

Miss Dial embodies vibrant spirit of festival as Princess

JENNIFER SCOTT jscott@tylerpaper.com

In the heart of Tyler, where the Rose Festival unfurls its vibrant tapestry each year, Miss Merritt Elizabeth Dial emerges as a dazzling symbol of the celebration’s charm and elegance. As the Princess of the 91st Texas Rose Festival, Dial adds a touch of grace and warmth to the event’s splendor, embodying the spirit of a tradition that transforms the city into a blooming marvel.

“The Rose Festival is about good people coming together for our beautiful city,” Dial said. “The history is amazing; a group of people had the dream to make a festival to honor a flower that was grown here. And it is still going strong 91 years later.”

A junior communications major at Texas Tech University, Dial’s primary responsibility as princess is to represent Tyler, its residents, and the festival with grace and enthusiasm. She meticulously prepares for each event, relying on her organizational skills –

something she credits her mother for.

“You have to be somewhat of an extrovert in this position,” Dial said. “Also being positive, dependable, and kind are important qualities to have as a princess and always.”

Dial embodies a deep-rooted connection to Tyler that spans seven generations. Her involvement with the Rose Festival began in 2013 as a train bearer and continued through her roles as an attendant dresser for children. Her long-standing family tradition of participating in the festival, influenced by her parents’ dedicated involvement, has made her role as Princess a natural and cherished continuation of her family’s legacy. She is the daughter of Mr. David Dial and Mrs. Michelle Dial, of Tyler. She has two siblings, Jack Butler Dial and Mary-Michael Dial.

“Both of my parents have been involved as long as I can remember,” Dial said. “I have been backstage with my mother, and

PRINCESS >> PAGE 19

Merritt Elizabeth Dial

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

ROSE PRINCESS

Princess

Continued From Page 17

on the parade route, in a golf cart with my father. They have always given their time helping during the festivals as well as throughout the year … it's just what we do.”

Miss Dial’s parents have been heavily involved in the Texas Rose Festival over the years. Mr. Dial has served with the Strutters including as Strutters President, as a member of Order of the Rose, and on the Executive Board. Mrs. Dial has volunteered her time on various committees and roles including Attendant Co-Chairman, Escort Co-Chairman, Accessories Chairman, Wrangler's Chairman,

Graphics Co-Chairman, and Wardrobe Committee. Other family members involved in the festival over the years include Haden Upchurch (great, great uncle, in the very first festival in 1933); Michael Flowers (grandfather, 1960 escort); Melodye Locklear Butler (cousin, 1976 Duchess of the Rose Growers); Michelle Flowers Dial (mother, 1986 Lady in Waiting); Jason Butler Flowers (uncle, 1989 escort); Erica Needham Hallmark (aunt, 1996 Lady in Waiting); Lindsey Dickerson Amos (cousin, 2000 Duchess of Plano);

PRINCESS >> PAGE 20

ROSE PRINCESS

Princess

Continued From Page 19

Mary-Michael Dial (sister, 2015 attendant); Anna Grace Hallmark (cousin, 2021 Queen); Cameron Hallmark (cousin, 2021 attendant); and Jack Butler Dial (brother, 2022 escort).

When Dial received the news of her appointment as princess, it was a moment filled with both humor and joy. During a visit to Lubbock for a Texas Tech/Texas Christian University game, her father’s phone rang with an unexpected FaceTime call from Festival President Bill Evans.

“My dad handed me the phone (and) at first, it was awkward small talk,” Dial said. “Then (Mr. Evans) asked me if I'd like to be princess; of course I said ‘yes.’ Mr. Evans didn't know he didn't have the camera on and I couldn't see him. It was funny and we all laughed. Awkward, funny and exciting all at the same time.”

Her enthusiastic acceptance marked the beginning of a new chapter in her Rose Festival journey, one she has embraced with genuine excitement and heartfelt commitment.

of my responsibilities and it all seems to fall into place,” Dial said.

The role has not been without its challenges, particularly public speaking in front of large audiences, but Dial’s energy and ability to stay busy help her balance these duties with her academic life. The most rewarding aspect of her reign has been witnessing her parents’ pride in her accomplishments, a testament to the deep personal and familial significance of her role.

“I really enjoy being around people, helping when needed,” Dial said. “(I) want to continue giving my time to important things that can help others.”

With this year’s festival theme ‘Fanfare of Festivals,’ the event was a vibrant celebration of diverse cultural traditions.

“It showcases festivals from all over the world and it is awesome,” she said. “The Tyler girls are representing various festivals around Texas and the out-of-town duchesses’ costumes symbolize festivals from all over the world.”

Her engaging personality and poised presence not only contribute to the festival's success but also highlight the deep

SKETCHES BY JACOB A. CLIMER

personal significance of the event for her.

“I am to represent the parade, which is special to me as my dad has been very involved in the parade for years and it is about our town, community pride and bringing people together,” Dial said.

Designed by Jacob Climer, her gown incorporates elements of nature and tradition, including antlers and raised roses, symbolizing Dial’s love for the outdoors and her connection to Tyler.

“I have always been outdoorsy,” Dial said. “I wanted antlers to symbolize nature and my love for hunting. I also wanted raised roses to bring a little Tyler to it.”

Positioned at the top of her train is the Strutters logo, featuring a cowboy hat: “It is a nod to all the men who work year-round to make the parade happen,” Dial said.

Serving as Dial escort is Harrison Barnett, her very first friend — besides her older brother Jack.

“He and I have always been close and had a lot of fun growing up – catching turtles, fishing and building forts in the woods at my

ranch,” she said.

Dial’s experience with the Texas Rose Festival encompasses both building lasting friendships and engaging with new friends.

“I'm excited to have more good times to look back on,” she said. “I'd say it's all about making memories and having fun.”

Dial’s involvement in the parade is a heartfelt tribute to her family’s dedication and her own commitment to community spirit. Her personal connection highlights the parade’s essence — celebrating local heritage and fostering unity. By representing her family and town, Dial embodies the core values of tradition, togetherness, and celebration – something she hopes visitors will resonate with.

“I hope all of the out-of-town visitors will experience not just the beautiful gowns,” she says, “but our hometown pride and understand and appreciate all of the time the volunteers have put in to make the festival a success.”

Miss Milton shines as Duchess of Rose Growers

RAQUEL VILLATORO rvillatoro@tylerpaper.com

Carrying on a family legacy, it’s Alice Elizabeth Milton’s time to shine as the 91st Texas Rose Festival Duchess of the Rose Growers.

When Milton, 20, originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma, was younger, she would go look at dresses at the Texas Rose Festival and take pictures with her mother, sister and grandmother.

Growing up, Milton would hear stories from her mom, who was a part of the Rose Festival court as Duchess of the Rose Growers in 1991. As she got older, she attended coronations and queen’s tea events and became a member of Friends of the Rose. Additionally, her sister was Duchess of the Rose Growers in 2021.

Now Milton is on the 91st festival court as the seventh Duchess of Rose Growers in her family.

“It feels really special to carry on our family tradition and to represent my grandparents and my great-grandparents, who

were rose growers in Tyler for a long time, and to do this for my grandmother,” Milton said.

Additionally, Milton’s grandmother, Carolyn Brooks, has been organizing the Friends of the Rose Luncheon for over 30 years. Miss Milton is the daughter of Dr. Mark Milton and Mrs. Nicole Milton (stepmother), and Mrs. Lori Carver and Tim Carver (stepfather). She has two siblings, sister Emily Milton Latham and brother Samuel Allen Milton.

A DRESS OF ROSES

For Milton, trying her dress on was exciting. She was able to see the sketches before and meet the dressmaker because she works at Southern Methodist University — where Milton attends college.

“I remember receiving the sketch and being really excited,” Milton said. “I wasn't quite sure how it would look in person versus

DUCHESS >> PAGE 25

Alice Elizabeth Milton

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

DUCHESS OF THE ROSE GROWERS

Duchess

on the paper. So with the different fittings, it was cool to see the progress of how it was transforming.”

The dress, by costume designer Jacob A. Climer, features a mix of colors: red, green, black and white. There is an upside down rose on the skirt of the dress and her crown has real live roses. The dress is similar to her sister’s dress since it also had real roses woven into the cape.

“Her dress is beautiful and she just looks gorgeous in it,” Milton’s mom Lori Carver said. “It's exciting to be able to share something that really doesn't feel like it was that long ago that I did it, but now to see both of my daughters get to experience it too, it's just been really fun.”

The theme of this year’s Rose Festival is ‘Fanfare of Festivals.’

Continued From Page 23 DUCHESS >> PAGE 26

“Since I’m the Duchess of the Rose Growers, mine is representing the Tyler Rose Show, so I kind of represent the roses in the show,” Milton said.

MAKING CONNECTIONS

Although Milton didn’t grow up in Tyler, she has been able to form connections with the other girls on the court. She also enjoyed meeting out-of-town duchesses who, like her, are not from Tyler.

“I got to meet some people who go to SMU that I hadn't met before that were participating in it,” Milton said. “So it's just been a good way to meet new people and people not from my hometown, and everybody's been really nice for all of it. So it's been fun.”

Milton studies international politics at SMU because she loves history and learning about economics and political science. Due

DUCHESS OF THE ROSE GROWERS

Cont. From Page 25

to her proximity to Tyler, she has been able to balance her schoolwork and Rose Festival duties well. In a summer interview ahead of the October festival, she said was looking forward to the main festivities finally happening.

“I'm excited to see everybody come together with all of their dresses,” Milton said. “It'll be cool for everyone to see all of them together. And it'll be really exciting to see all the different people that come to the events throughout Tyler, and [to] have all my family come up to see it.”

FAMILY LEGACY

As Duchess of Rose Growers, Milton has learned to get out of her comfort zone, reach out to new people and to put herself in new positions to grow. She has enjoyed being an ambassador for Tyler.

“I'm excited to help draw some tourism and excitement to Tyler and the festival, and to help represent the rose industry that Tyler's had for many years, and my family's role in it,” Milton said.

Milton’s grandfather and greatgrandfather were rose growers. She feels she is part of an important legacy.

“To have this part of my own family history that I've been able to learn about and hear about as a child, and then be able to help continue that family legacy today,” Milton said. “I think it's very special to be a part of a tradition that's lasted this long and represent the legacy that my family has created and Tyler within the rose industry.”

Family involvement includes Emily Milton Latham (sister), Duchess of the Rose Growers 2021; Angie Lee Brooks (aunt), Duchess of the Rose Growers 1994; Amy Dunwoody Solberg, Duchess of the Rose Growers 2002; Leah Walters Weikel, Duchess of the Rose Growers 1988; Jill Brooks Howard; Duchess of the Rose Growers 1968; Samuel Wallace Dunwoody, Escort 1998; Robert L. Brooks (grandfather), rose grower and processor and member of the Texas Rose Research Foundation, Rose Procurement Chair of the 1983 Festival; Carolyn Brooks (grandmother), founding member of Friends of the Rose; and the late Mary Emily and M.L. Brooks (great-grandparents) rose growers.

Duchess of the Rose Growers

SKETCH BY JACOB A. CLIMER

of SanAntonio

Everything’s Coming Up Roses

Alice and her sister, Emily Milton Latham 2021 Duchess of the Rose Growers

Alice Elizabeth Milton 2024 Duchess of the Rose Growers

Emily and Alice Milton Queen’s Tea and Rose Show 2005

Rose Show 2008 Costume Display

Lori Brooks Carver - Alice’s Mother

1991 Duchess of the Rose Growers

Rose Show 2008 Costume Display

Angie Brooks Bloecher - Alice’s Aunt

1994 Duchess of the Rose Growers

Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Brooks and Family

PHOTO BY

JAMES FRENCH

PHOTOGRAPHY

Miss Tate Elise Elfarr

Miss Tate Elise Elfarr is the daughter of Dr. William Alex Elfarr and Mrs. Barbara A. Elfarr of Athens. Miss Elfarr is a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival court.

Miss Elfarr is a student at the University of Texas at Austin, where she is majoring in Health and Society with a Pre-Health Professions Certificate. She is a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. She enjoys involvement in philanthropy, intramural soccer, and is a member of the University of Texas Livestrong Club.

Other family members who have been involved in the Texas Rose Festival include her brother, William Alex Elfarr, II who served as a Lady-in-Waiting Escort in 2021-2022

Photo by James French Photgraphy

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Young women from Tyler families serve as Ladies-in-Waiting in the Rose Queen’s Court during the Texas Rose Festival.

The women, many from families with a long history of involvement in the festival, will be formally presented during the

coronation ceremony at the Cowan Center. They will also be featured in their coronation gowns riding on floats during the Rose Parade and at the Queen’s Tea, where they will interact with visitors in the Tyler Rose Garden.

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Mary Helen Caton

Miss Mary Helen Caton, Mrs. Sherri Caton, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-in-Waiting.

Miss Caton is a student at Texas A&M University where she is majoring in education. She is involved with her sorority Pi Beta Phi and is also highly engaged with the community through her volunteer work at the Boys & Girls Club. Her faith is important to her, as she is an active member of Restoration Church and is involved with the Breakaway Ministry on campus at Texas A&M.

Miss Caton has long been interested in the Texas Rose Festival and attended all Rose Festival events when her older sisters, Anna and Sara Caton, were Ladies-in-Waiting in 2017 and 2019. As for family involvement, Miss Caton’s mother chaired the Hospitality Committee for two years, volunteered on the Wardrobe Committee for numerous years, as well as assisted as a volunteer with the Women's Luncheon. Over the years, Miss Caton’s father has volunteered with the Texas Rose Festival parade and the Men's Luncheon.

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Harley Jayne Kay Cooper

Miss Harley Jayne Kay Cooper, of Mr. Henry Cooper and Mrs. Mary Cooper, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-in-Waiting.

Miss Cooper’s other direct family members include her sisters Hope Cooper and Hayley Cooper.

Miss Cooper attends Texas A&M University where she is studying public health. On campus, she is involved with her sorority Delta Gamma, The Big Event, and in Future Aggie Physician Assistants.

Other members of Miss Cooper’s family previously involved in the festival include her cousin Meri-Margaret Manziel Malechek, who served as a Duchess.

Texas Sandfest

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Tate Elise Elfarr

Miss Tate Elise Elfarr, and Mrs. Barbara Elfarr, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-in-Waiting.

Miss Elfarr attends the University of Texas at Austin, where she is pursuing a major in health and society with goals to obtain a pre-health professions certificate.

On campus, Miss Elfarr is involved with her sorority Kappa Kappa Gamma, and she also plays intramural soccer.

Austin City Limits

Miss Elfarr is excited to continue her family’s involvement with the Texas Rose Festival. In the past, her brother William Alex Elfarr II served as an escort.

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Frances Mygnone Foley

Miss Frances Mygnone Foley, Mr. Kevin Foley and Mrs. Carol Foley, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Ladyin-Waiting.

Miss Foley attends Texas A&M University, where she is pursuing a major in business marketing and a minor in Chinese and international business.

She is involved on campus with her sorority Chi Omega of the Xi Kappa chapter. She is involved with private pilot flying, the Save Our Streets children’s ministry and the Professional Association of Industrial Distribution.

Miss Foley is looking forward to continuing her family’s involvement with the festival. Previously, her mother has been involved in the festival in various capacities including volunteering with the Coronation, Queen's Tea, Rose Show, Wardrobe Committee and Rose Ball Presentation. Miss Foley’s father has served with the Order of the Rose.

Several members of Miss Foley’s family have been on the Texas Rose Festival court, including Kevin Michael Foley Jr. as escort; aunt Cathrine Legg Harrison as ball presentation choreographer and volunteering with several other committees; uncle Dr. Craig Harrison with Order of the Rose; and cousins Dr. Craig Edward Harrison ll, Christian Lloyd Harrison, and Chandler Boone Harrison, all of whom served as escorts.

Main Street Arts Festival

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Landry Kathryn Guy

Miss Landry Kathryn Guy, Mr. Robert Guy and Mrs. Paige Guy, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-in-Waiting.

Her sister is Aniston Guy.

Miss Guy attends Mississippi State University, where she is majoring in business. She is a member of the Alpha Delta Pi sorority. Miss Guy is involved with the Student Entrepreneur Club, Diabetes Care Association, and Volunteers Around the World group.

Miss Guy is looking forward to being involved with the Texas Rose Festival.

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Lily Isabelle Hammer

Miss Lily Isabelle Hammer, Tiffany Daughtry Kidd and Mr. Scott David Hammer, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-in-Waiting.

Miss Hammer attends Texas Christian University where she is pursuing a bachelor of science degree in psychology. She is a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority.

Miss Hammer enjoys giving back through her sorority’s mental health awareness philanthropy and by volunteering at the community soup kitchen.

Her mother has been very involved with the festival through volunteer efforts including serving on the Coronation Wardrobe Properties Committee, as well as roles of Hospitality and Dresser.

As for other family involvement, several of Miss Hammer’s family members have served on the court or been involved with the festival in the past, including her mother Tiffany who was a Lady-inWaiting in 1990; sister Elizabeth Louise Kidd, Ladyin-Waiting in 2016; brother Cameron Lee Kidd, Escort in 2018; uncle Jordan Gist Daughtry, Queen’s Trainbearer to Molly Arnold in 1985 and Escort in 1998; grandmother Gigi Gist Daughtry, who served with the Queen’s Tea and Royalty committees; and grandfather Gaylon Lloyd Daughtry, Escort in 1967 and 1968 and former member Order of the Rose.

Texas Renaisance Festival

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Caelyn Dru Kisamore

Miss Caelyn Dru Kisamore, Bundy and Mrs. Donna Bundy, and daughter of Mr. Chad Kisamore and Mrs. Audra Kisamore, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-in-Waiting.

Miss Kisamore’s other immediate family members include Alexander Fox Kisamore, her brother, of Tyler.

Miss Kisamore is attending the University of Texas at Tyler concurrently with Tyler Junior College where she is pursuing her ADN/BSN in nursing as well as a certified registered nurse (RN).

She is active in the Presidential Honor Scholarship Society of TJC and has been named to the President’s Honor Roll every semester at TJC so far. She was also awarded a nursing externship with UT Health East Texas.

Miss Kisamore is excited for her time on the court after volunteering for three years with the Wardrobe Committee, assisting in dressing the Ladies-in-Waiting and Duchesses and helping backstage with props and stage positioning.

Her mother has served the Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-in-Waiting in 1996 (Queen Anna Clyde) and as a volunteer with the Wardrobe and Accessories committees. Her mother also volunteered in high school with the backstage crew and with the Queen’s Tea Committee.

Miss Kisamore’s family members have long supported the festival, including her grandparents who have been sponsors of the Kickoff Party, Mr. John Zachary Bundy, her uncle, who served as a Duchess Escort in 1998; and her aunt, Mrs. Jessica Bundy, who volunteered with the Wardrobe Committee.

Wurstfest

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Emma Lien-Nagle

Miss Emma Lien-Nagle, Lien and Dr. Chad McNeil, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-inWaiting.

Other immediate family members include her siblings, Isabella Lien McNeil, 16, and Anniken Marie McNeil, 14.

Miss Lien-Nagle attends the University of Texas at Austin, where she is pursuing a major in health and society and to obtain a pre-health certificate.

She is involved on campus with her sorority, Kappa Kappa Gamma, where she serves as facility coordinator. She also volunteers with READ Naturally and the Best Buddies program. Additionally, Miss Lien-Nagle works as a dental assistant at Thiel’s Pediatric Dentistry.

Miss Lien-Nagle is excited about her time on the court after serving as a Dresser in the 2021 Rose Festival for Clay Mizer.

State Fair of Texas

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Emma Joyce Lindsey

Miss Emma Joyce Lindsey, Christopher Lindsey and Mrs. Julie Lindsey, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-in-Waiting.

Miss Lindsey attends Stephen F. Austin University, where she is majoring in interior design.

She is a member of Alpha Chi Omega, where she serves as Vice President of Marketing. She also works part time at the Stephen F. Austin State University Alumni Association Office.

Miss Lindsey’s parents are huge supporters of the Texas Rose Festival. Her mother and father helped sponsor the Texas Rose Festival Kickoff Party in 2023 and 2022. Her father has also been a member of the Order of the Rose since 2019. Additionally, Mr. Lindsey drove local dignitaries in the Texas Rose Festival Parade in 2016, 2017 and 2018.

Miss Lindsey is looking forward to carrying on her family’s legacy of participating and volunteering with the parade. Other family members who have been involved include Cadie Johnson Kelly, who was a Lady-in-Waiting in 1999. Miss Kelly also helped with the kickoff party for several years. Cooper Johnson served as an Escort in 1996 and Don Robert Johnson also served as an Escort 1972 and 1973.

Czhilispiel

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Claire Bergfeld Lofquist

Miss Claire Bergfeld Lofquist, and Mrs. Susie Lofquist, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-in-Waiting.

Miss Lofquist is a student at University of Mississippi where she is studying to earn a degree in integrated marketing communications with a business minor.

Miss Lofquist is active in her Kappa Delta sorority chapter and at Pinelake Church. She enjoys spending summers as a counselor at Camp Longhorn.

Miss Lofquist previously served the Texas Rose Festival as Train Bearer to Queen Katy Peltier in 2014. Her mother, Susie Bergfeld Lofquist, was a Lady-In-Waiting in 1987. She served as the 2009 Queen’s Ball Chair, 2012 Ladies Luncheon Chair featuring speaker Laura Bush, Backstage Coronation Chair, Men’s Luncheon Chair, Rose Show chair and on several backstage, party and hospitality committees over the last 20 years. In 1986 she was an attendant dresser to her cousin, Chris Bergfeld. Her father, Barry Lofquist, is a member of the Order of The Rose.

Other family members who have participated in the festival include her sister Caroline Lofquist, who served as a 2022 Lady-In-Waiting and 2011 Train Bearer to Queen Morgan Rippy; Julius Louis Bergfeld, grandfather, escort, member Order of the Rose; Brad Bergfeld, uncle, 1990 Train Bearer to Queen Claire Duncan; Kaylyn Kerr Bergfeld, aunt, 1994 attendant to Queen Katy McArthur, 2006 Lady-In-Waiting; Julius Andrew Bergfeld, uncle, 2009 President Order of the Rose; Julius Andrew Bergfeld, Jr., cousin, 2021 escort; and George Dillard Bergfeld, cousin, 2023 escort. Relatives from the Bergfeld, Barr, Knight and Nash families have served through the years as ladies-in-waiting, duchesses, escorts and attendants. Susan Bergfeld, her grandmother, served as Tea Chairman for Queen Ashley Powell, Ladies Luncheon Chairman, Backstage Coronation Chair and on numerous other committees.

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Eva Grace Meads

Miss Eva Grace Meads, of Mr. Anthony Meads and Dr. Shanna Meads, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-in-Waiting.

Miss Meads attends Baylor University, where she is studying business entrepreneurship. She is a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority. Additionally, she is involved with the Pine Cove Central Texas as a camp counselor and media specialist, Young Life, and the Highland Community Bible study group.

She has previously served the Texas Rose Festival by volunteering with the Queen’s Tea. Other family members who have participated on the court include cousins Hannah Meads Kendall, Laura Meads Mahon and Emma Scheurmann, all of whom were Ladies-inWaiting, as well as her cousin Andrew Meads, who participated as an escort.

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Annabelle Kelly Nowlin

Miss Annabelle Kelly Nowlin, Jerry Nowlin and Mrs. Hollie Nowlin, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-in-Waiting.

Miss Nowlin attends the University of Texas at Austin, where she is pursuing a major in environmental science. She is a member of the Alpha Chi Omega sorority. She is involved with the Campus Environmental Center and volunteers with Austin Nature & Science Center and Austin Pets Alive.

Her mother has been involved as an escort mother and as escort photography coordinator.

Miss Nowlin’s brother, Jack Nowlin, served as an Escort in 2022.

Texas Butterfly Festival

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Martha Claire Patterson

Miss Martha Claire Patterson, Richard Greg Patterson and Mrs. Amy Patterson, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-in-Waiting.

She attends Texas A&M University where she is majoring in biomedical sciences. Miss Patterson is a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority. She is also involved with St. Jude's Children's Hospital, the Aggieland Humane Society and the Biomedical Sciences Student Association.

Miss Patterson’s involvement with the festival began back in middle school when she was a server at the Queen’s Tea. Additionally, her family has established roots with the festival. Her mother was a Lady-In-Waiting 1993, and has also served by volunteering with the Rose Show Committee, as Coronation Dresser and with the Coronation Makeup Committee.

Other members of her family who have served on the court include sister Olivia Louise Patterson, 2023 Lady-In-Waiting; Cousins Whitney Westerheide Peterson 2013 Duchess of Cowtown, Meredith Patterson Hayes, 1998 Queen, Sarah Howard Greenleaf, 1998 Trainbearer and 2006 Lady-in-Waiting, Maggie Howard 1998 Trainbearer and 2006 Lady-In-Waiting, and Keaby Herrington, 1996 Escort.

Laredo Birding Festival

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Riley Brooke Rayzor

Miss Riley Brooke Rayzor, Rayzor and Mrs. Ally Rayzor, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-in-Waiting.

Her other immediate family members include her brother, Robert Rhodes Rayzor.

Miss Rayzor attends Texas Christian University where she is studying business/finance real estate. She is involved with the rush team for Tri Delta, serves as a middle school volleyball league coach, and is in the real estate club.

Miss Rayzor’s personal involvement with the Texas Rose Festival began over a decade ago as she served as Train Bearer to the Queen in 2013. Most recently, she was Dresser to Queen’s Attendants in 2019 and 2021.

Miss Rayzor’s family involvement with the festival is extensive. Her parents are huge supporters of the festival, including her mother Mrs. Ally Rayzor who has served in the following areas: Queen's Tea Backstage Chair in 2023; Accessories Committee in 2019; Ladies Luncheon Committee in 2018; Wardrobe Committee in 2012 and 2015; Escort Chaperone in 2014; Graphics Committee in 2011; Doorkeeper/graphics in 2010; and on the Rose Show Committee in 2010. Her father Mr. Julian Rayzor has served as a Strutter for seven years and was President of the Strutters in 2017.

Other family members who have been on the court in the past include Betsy and Micheal Jenkins, who were a Duchess and Escort, respectively, Giuliana Daleo, who was a Duchess, and Tripp Daleo, who was an escort.

Rattlesnake Roundup

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Katherine Elizabeth Sharkey

Miss Katherine Elizabeth Sharkey, Dr. Paul Sharkey and Mrs. Elizabeth Sharkey, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Ladyin-Waiting.

Miss Sharkey attends Baylor University, where she is majoring in corporate communications and is a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority. She is also involved with Alpha Phi Omega and Alpha Lambda Delta.

While Miss Sharkey has not been involved with the Texas Rose Festival in the past, she said she is “delighted to be a part of this historic and joyous event as a Lady-in-Waiting.”

Her mother has had the honor of serving as a coronation dresser and is very excited to be participating in all aspects of the Texas Rose Festival. Miss Sharkey’s father is also enthusiastic about being fully engaged in the Texas Rose Festival.

Miss Sharkey’s other immediate family members include her brother William Sharkey and sister-in-law Abigail Sharkey.

Dogwood Festival

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Macy Caroline Smith

Miss Macy Caroline Smith, Smith, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-in-Waiting.

Miss Smith attends Texas A&M University, where she is majoring in Allied Health. She is a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority, where she is Director of Public Relations and Marketing. She also enjoys spending time with friends and working out. She participated in the St. Jude fundraiser and is a member of Declaration Church.

Serving as a Lady-in-Waiting is not Miss Smith’s first experience with the festival, as she was a dresser for Attendant Stella Land in 2021.

Her mother, Jennifer Turman Smith, was a Lady-in-Waiting in the court of Queen Katie McArthur in 1994. She also helped as a dresser backstage in 2012 and served at the Queen's Tea in 2015. Her father, Kyle James Smith, was an escort to her mother in 1994. He has also been a member of the Order of the Rose.

Miss Smith continues a long legacy of family involvement with the festival, as her great aunt, Louise Boren Hildebrand, was the first Rose Queen from Tyler in 1934. Her grandmother, Betty Ann Smith, served as Queen's Tea chairman in 1993, Escort chairman in 1994 and in various other roles over the years. Her aunt, Julie Thompson, is a Queen's Tea chairman for 2024 and has served in many other capacities throughout the years. Family members who have participated in the Rose Festival as ladies-inwaiting include: Margaret Garner Turman, aunt, 1960; Alexandra Owen Jenkins, aunt, 1963; Betty Hildebrand Turman, aunt, 1968; Karen Smith Truitt, aunt, 1982; Julie Smith Thompson, aunt, 1985; Sarah McIntosh Boyd, cousin, 2000; Emily Smith Jones, cousin, 2009; Abby Smith Calhoun, cousin, 2015; Claire Smith Swinnea, cousin, 2016; Anne Elizabeth Thompson, cousin, 2021. Additionally, Katie Truitt Coleman, cousin, was Duchess of Hudson Oaks in 2009. Duchesses of the Rose Growers include Leslie Turman Ward, cousin, 1987; Katie McIntosh Heisterman, cousin, 1966; and Tiffany Mea, cousin, 2000. Escorts who participated in the Rose Festival include James Wiley Jenkins, uncle, 1965; David Sidney Turman, uncle, 1966, 1967, 1968; Steven Don Smith, uncle, 1980; John Rex Thompson Sr., uncle, 1985; James David Turman, uncle, 1992; Matthew David Turman, cousin, 1995; Joshua Parker Turman, cousin, 2000; Jacob Steven Smith, cousin, 2012; John Rex Thompson Jr., cousin, 2012; Graham Williams Thompson, cousin, 2015.

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Whooping Crane Festival

Caroline Slone Twaddell

Miss Caroline Slone Twaddell, daughter of Dr. Timothy Twaddell and Mrs. Meridith Twaddell, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady- in-Waiting.

Other immediate family members include her brother Luke Twaddell, who served as an Escort in 2019. Miss Twaddell’s grandparents are Dr. and Mrs. Charles Cox, of Temple, and Mr. Clinton Twaddell, of Tyler.

Miss Twaddell is attending Baylor University where she is in the Science Research Fellows program. She is also a member of the Chi Omega sorority. Additionally, Miss Twaddell conducts research in a marine biology lab studying seal ecology and is a community leader for Highland Baptist Church.

Miss Twaddell has previously been involved with the Texas Rose Festival through her volunteer work of assisting Ladies-in-Waiting at the Queen’s Tea event.

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Talina Kate Vargas

Miss Talina Kate Vargas, Gustavo Vargas and Mrs. Julie Vargas, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-in-Waiting.

Other immediate family members include her brother, Max Luca Vargas.

Miss Vargas attends Texas Christian University where she is pursuing a biology degree. She is involved with TCU’s Pre-Dental Club, Biology Club, and volunteers for Once Upon a Room Fort Worth.

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Caroline Nicole Wells

Miss Caroline Nicole Wells, Mrs. Susan Wells and Dr. Robert Wells, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Ladyin-Waiting.

Miss Wells attends Baylor University where she is pursuing a major in theatre design and Technology with a minor in history. She is a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. She is also involved with the Student Foundation, Baylor Theater Student Society, and Baylor Interdisciplinary Core.

She was a Queen's Tea hostess in the past and looks forward to her current involvement with the festival. Her mother Mrs. Wells has also been involved with the Queen’s Tea as a hostess.

Other family members with previous festival involvement include: Susan Seaberry Wells, Queen's Tea Hostess; Lauren Sanford LaRoe, Queen; Cynthia Sanford Berero, Lady-in-Waiting; and Chris Sanford, Escort.

Her other immediate family members include her grandmother, Carolyn Seaberry.

Bluebonnet Festival

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

LADIES-IN-WAITING

Miss Kasey Lynn Wright, Wright and Dr. Renee Wright, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Lady-in-Waiting.

Other immediate family members include her brothers, Kyle Wright and Matthew Wright.

Miss Wright attends the University of Oklahoma where she is pursuing a biology degree. She is a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. She is also involved with the Pre-Dental Club.

Kasey Lynn Wright

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

Presenting ... the Fairest Rose of the 2024 Texas Rose Festival

Queen

Frances Olivia Faulconer

October 17-20, 2024

Queen of the Texas Rose Festival

DUCHESSES

Young women from across the state take part as Duchesses in the Texas Rose Festival.

Traditionally they have strong ties to families from Tyler who have supported and participated in the festival for years.

These young women are formally presented during the Queen’s Coronation ceremony and also will ride on floats during the Rose Parade and greet thousands of guests who attend the Queen’s Tea in the Tyler Rose Garden.

DUCHESSES

Miss Emily Kathleen Brennig, daughter of Mr. Charles Brennig III and Mrs. Tammy Brennig, of Houston, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Brennig attends Texas Christian University where she is studying child development and psychology. She is a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority. She serves as membership selection assistant for Delta Delta Delta and is also a volunteer for Kids' Meals.

Miss Annah Stanton Brown, daughter

of Mr. Stanton Boyce Brown and Mrs. Len McClane Brown, of Waco, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Brown attends Southern Methodist University where she is studying finance and psychology. She is a member of Phi Chi Theta, where she serves as president. She is also involved with the SMU Program Council and Country Western Dancing.

Miss Brown’s has a history of family involvement in the Texas Rose Festival. Her sister, Lella Sue McClane Brown, was a Duchess in 2022. Additionally, her grandmother Margaret Cannon Boyce Brown was a Duchess in the late 1930s; cousins Caroline Lewis Abbott, Elise Brown, Camilla Brown Custis, and Cannon Lewis McClintock were also Duchesses; and her aunts Margaret Brown Lewis and Stanton Brown Sattler were Duchesses as well.

Miss Vaille Addison Crenshaw, daughter of Mr. Casey Crenshaw and Mrs. Stacey Crenshaw, of Houston, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

She attends Texas A&M University where she is studying finance. She is a member of

the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, where she is the administration director. She also started her own business called ClaraVaille, which offers upscale home decor and jewelry.

Miss Lenna Louise Culp, daughter of Mr. John Culp and Mrs. Meg Culp, of San Antonio, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Her other immediate family members include her brother, Miller Culp.

Miss Culp attends Texas A&M University where she is pursuing a degree in special education. She is a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, where she is involved in the organization’s many events and activities. She spends time volunteering with the Save Our Streets Ministries after-school program and Grace Anderson pre-school.

Miss Culp’s history of family involvement with the Texas Rose Festival includes: Dale Porter Miller, grandmother, Duchess; Carrie Culp Harper, aunt, Duchess; Caroline Harper, cousin, Duchess; and Georgia Harper, cousin, Duchess.

VAILLE ADDISON CRENSHAW

EMILY KATHLEEN BRENNIG

ANNAH STANTON BROWN

DUCHESSES

Miss Mary Olivia Daleo, daughter of Mr. Bernard Daleo III and Mrs. Stephanie Daleo, of Beaumont, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Daleo is attending Texas Christian University, where she is studying strategic communications. She is also a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority, where she is an active participant. She also is the assistant of Lifetime Membership for Delta Delta Delta. Additionally, Miss Daleo is a member of the TCU Public Relations Student Society of America.

Miss Daleo’s prior family involvement with the Texas Rose Festival includes her sister, Giuliana Daleo, who was a Duchess in 2019, and her brother, Bernard "Tripp" Daleo who was a Duchess Escort in 2022. She also has a younger sister, Avery Daleo.

Miss Camryn Elizabeth Garza, daughter of Mr. Joe Garza and Mrs. Patricia Garza, of San Antonio, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Garza attends Texas A&M University, where she is pursuing a degree in bioenvironmental science. She is involved with Texas A&M Club Swim, The

Big Event, and The Texas A&M Chapter of the Society for Conservation Biology.

Miss Garza is excited to continue her family’s involvement with the Texas Rose Festival. Her mother, Mrs. Patricia Garza (Ireland), served as a Lady-in-Waiting in 1996 and Queen’s Tea server as a child.

Miss Susanna “Susie” Slocum Girard, daughter of Mrs. Sophie Girard and Mr. Louis Girard, of Houston, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Girard has two siblings, sisters Margaret Girard and Caroline Girard.

Miss Girard attends Southern Methodist University where she is studying economics and will minor in advertising. She is a member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority. She is also a member of the Delta Sigma Pi Business Fraternity. She also plans to participate in Club Tennis.

Miss Girard is looking forward to going from being an attendee to a participant in the Texas Rose Festival. She first attended the Texas Rose Festival in 2022 when her older sister Margaret Girard was The Duchess from Houston as Cherry Blossoms. Her parents are looking forward to

continuing to support the Texas Rose Festival again this year as mother and father of a duchess on the court.

In addition to her sister’s involvement as a duchess, other family members who have participated in the festival include cousins on her father's side: Miss Black Gold, Lula Belle McMurrey Maddox (Father Louis' first cousin once removed), her three daughters: (Father Louis' second cousins), Lula Belle Maddox Mays (Cooky); Carolyn Nell Maddox Shelton; Patricia Anne Maddox Matthew and their daughters: (Father Louis' second cousins once removed), Christy Kathryn Mays, Clettenburg Stephanie Belle Mays Bozarth, Carolyn Anne Shelton, Elizabeth Lynn Shelton Martin and Patricia Kathleen Matthew Fisher; and Laura Sue McMurrey Sheffield (Father Louis' second cousin).

Miss Meredith Elizabeth Hallam, daughter of Mr. John Hallam and Mrs. Kristina Hallam, of Dallas, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

She has two brothers, Gaston Hallam

DUCHESSES >> PAGE 78

CAMRYN ELIZABETH GARZA

LENNA LOUISE CULP

MARY OLIVIA DALEO

DUCHESSES

Duchesses

Continued From Page 77

and Henry Hallam.

Miss Hallam attends Vanderbilt University where she is pursuing a philosophy degree. She is involved with the Vanderbilt Pre-Law Society, United Way of Dallas, and is Assistant Editor at Gigi Edits.

Miss Hallam is looking forward to continuing her family roots with the Texas Rose Festival. Family members who have been involved previously include Louise Hallam, Duchess; Bryan Hill Lynch, Duchess; and Catherine Hallam Sweet, Duchess.

Miss Meredith Ann Herod, daughter of Mr. Stephen Herod and Mrs. Lorie Herod, of Houston, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Herod attends Southern Methodist University where she is studying communications with a minor in art history. She is a member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority. At SMU, Miss Herod is active in her sorority and its philanthropy Read > Lead > Achieve. She also has a small business

painting gifts for birthdays, debutante presentations, sorority sisters, and friends. She studied art history abroad this summer for five weeks in Orvieto, Italy.

Other immediate family members include her sister Morgan Elizabeth Herod who is a freshman at SMU.

Miss Ellington Jane Hull, daughter of Mr. William Hull and Ms. Jennifer Hull, of Harlingen, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Other immediate family members include Cecie Davis.

Miss Hull attends the University of Texas at Austin, where she is majoring in finance. She is a member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority, where she is Vice President of Operations. She is also a member of the Phi Gamma Nu Business Fraternity.

Miss Hull is excited to continue her family’s involvement with the Texas Rose Festival, as her father Mr. William Hull previously served as an Escort. Other family members who have participated in the Texas Rose Festival court include Hailee Hull as a Lady-in-Waiting and Rob Hull as an Escort.

Miss Michelle Marie Iglesias, daughter of Mr. William Iglesias and Mrs. Shelley Iglesias, of Houston, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Iglesias attends the University of Texas, where she is studying communication and leadership. She is a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, where she serves as the Theta merchandise chair. She is also involved with Reformed University Fellowship (Texas RUF).

Miss Iglesias’ family attended the Texas Rose Festival in 2023, when her brother Patrick was an escort. Her other immediate family members include Julia Iglesias.

Miss Ann Katherine Virginia Jackson, daughter of Mr. Andrew “Drew” Craig Jackson and Mrs. Jennifer Young Jackson, of Longview, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Jackson attends Texas Christian University, where she is majoring in design studies/architectural lighting. She is a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority.

MEREDITH ELIZABETH HALLAM

MEREDITH ANN HEROD

SUSANNA SLOCUM GIRARD

DUCHESSES

MICHELLE MARIE IGLESIAS

ELLINGTON JANE HULL

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

ANN KATHERINE VIRGINIA JACKSON

CHARLOTTE CLAIRE LYDICK

MARGARET KATE KEOGH

HANNAH NONETTE JENKINS

DUCHESSES

Duchesses

Continued From Page 78

Miss Jackson volunteers in various volunteer positions to benefit the Tri Delta national partnership with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and also with Fort Worth Tri Delta Alumnae Charities benefitting Cook Children's Hospital.

She is looking forward to family involvement with the festival. Other family members who have previously been on the Texas Rose Festival court include Margaret Jackson Dodson, who was Duchess of Longview in 1997.

Miss Hannah Nonette Jenkins, daughter of Mr. Will Jenkins and Mrs. Gillian Jenkins, of Beaumont, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Jenkins attends the University of Texas at Austin, where she is studying communication and leadership. She is a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, where she serves as Member Engagement Director. Additionally, she is involved as Phi Gamma Nu Business

Fraternity Social Chairman and with the Texas Undergraduate Studies Sales Organization.

Family members who have participated in the Texas Rose Festival previously include her Aunt and Uncle Betsy and Michael Jenkins, who were a Duchess and Escort.

Miss Margaret Kate Keogh, daughter of Mr. Michael Keogh and Mrs. Elizabeth Keogh, of Dallas, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Keogh attends Texas Christian University, where she is majoring in child development. She is a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. She is a vice president for her sorority and tutors elementary children.

Miss Keogh is continuing a family legacy by participating in the Texas Rose Festival. Her mother, Elizabeth Anne Hairston Keogh, was a Duchess in 1991. Additionally, her sister Caroline Elizabeth Keogh was a Duchess in 2021; her maternal grandmother Carol Ann Graham Hairston was a Lady-in-Waiting in 1961; cousin Molly Elizabeth Graham was an attendant in 2012; great uncle Raymond Terry

Graham Jr. and cousin Raymond Terry “Trey” Graham III have also participated in the festival.

Her other immediate family members include Emily Abigail Keogh, who is a sophomore in high school.

Miss Charlotte Claire Lydick, daughter of Robert Lydick and Holly Lydick, of Fort Worth, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Lydick attends the University of Texas at Austin, where she is majoring in education. She is a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. She also has an internship with Agency Habitat.

Previous family involvement with the Texas Rose Festival includes her mother, Holly Heath Lydick, who served as a Duchess of Longview, and grandfather James Neal Heath, who served as an Escort. Her twin brother Robert Woodson Lydick Jr. has also served as an Escort.

Miss Elizabeth Faris Malone, daughter of Dr. Robert Malone and Mrs. DUCHESSES >> PAGE 82

DAY GILMER NETTLE

ELIZABETH FARIS MALONE

LILLIAN SUSAN NETTLE

DUCHESSES

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

COURTENAY CHRISTIANSON SANDS

PARKER RYAN OLIVER

SUSAN LEE RICHEY

KATHRYN BUNKER SANDS

LILY ELIZABETH SENTER

CAROLINE STORY STILES

DUCHESSES

Duchesses

Continued From Page 80

Jennifer Malone, of The Woodlands, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Malone attends Southern Methodist University, where she is majoring in art history with a minor in biology. As a member of Chi Omega, she enjoys being involved in sorority life. Through Reading Partners of North Texas, Miss Malone volunteers bi-weekly working with beginning readers at a local Dallas Elementary School. She is involved full time in her academics as an SMU Provost Scholar.

She has one older brother, Robert Jackson Malone.

Miss Day Gilmer Nettle, daughter of Mr. Douglas Nettle and Mrs. Daffan Nettle, of Dallas, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess. Additionally, her twin sister Miss Lillian Susan Nettle is also a Duchess this year.

Day attends the University of Texas,

where she is majoring in advertising. She is a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, where she serves as Merchandise Co-Chair. She is also involved with the Texas Advertising Group. One of her accomplishments includes being selected for Texas Creative, a selective advertising program within the Stan Richards School of Advertising in Moody College of Communications.

Miss Lillian Susan Nettle, daughter of Mr. Douglas Nettle and Mrs. Daffan Nettle, of Dallas, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess. Additionally, her twin sister Miss Day Gilmer Nettle is also a Duchess this year.

Lillian attends the University of Texas at Austin, where she is majoring in public relations. She is a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, where she serves as Executive Assistant to the Board of Directors. She is also involved with the Texas Public Relations Student Society of America and Texas Cystic Fibrosis Club.

Miss Parker Ryan Oliver, daughter of Mr. Gale Hamilton Oliver and Mrs. Tricia

Oliver, of Houston, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Oliver attends Texas A&M University in College Station, where she is majoring in communications. She is a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma Epsilon Rho Chapter, where she is involved in the HR Club. She is also an Aggie Hostess.

Her other immediate family members include her brother, Kyle Chandler Oliver.

Miss Susan Lee Richey, daughter of Mr. Trice Ragon Richey and Mrs. Courtney Richey, of Dallas, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Her other immediate family members include her brother, Paden Richey.

Miss Richey is attending the University of Arkansas, where she is studying human development. She is a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. She is also involved with the National Residence Hall Honorary, Arkansas Volunteer Action Center, and Delight Ministries Executive Leadership.

Miss Richey is carrying on a longtime family legacy of participation in the Texas

ELIZABETH LOUISE WHELESS

SOPHIA ANNE URSONE

MARY MARGARET WASHBURNE

Rose Festival. Her mother, Mrs. Courtney Richey, has served as a Lady-In-Waiting on the Texas Rose Festival court and also spent time volunteering as a Script Co-Writer. Her father, Mr. Trice Ragon Richey, once served as an Escort to the Princess.

Other family members who have been involved with the Texas Rose Festival and their roles include Marilyn Richey, grandmother, Registration Party Chairman, Royalty Co-Chairman, Queen's Tea CoChairman, Publicity Chairman; Susan Howard, grandmother, Lady-In-Waiting, Assistant Coronation Chairman, Royalty Chairman, Escort Chairman, Coronation Script Writer; George Hager, grandfather, Escort, Order of the Rose member; Michael Adam Richey, uncle, Escort; James Hager, uncle, Escort; Kerr Hager, uncle, Escort; Hudson Richey, brother, Escort; Molly Richey, cousin, Lady-In-Waiting; and William Richey, cousin, Escort.

Miss Courtenay Christianson Sands, daughter of Mrs. Gayle Sands and the late Mr. John Bunker Sands, of Dallas, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Courtenay attends Southern Methodist University, where she is majoring in economics and religious studies with a Latin minor. She is a member of the Chi Omega sorority. Additionally, she is involved with the Delta Sigma Phi business fraternity, Faith and Learning Scholars Program, and Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity.

Family members who have previously been involved with the Texas Rose Festival include Caroline Rose Hunt, grandmother; Haven Heinrichs (Sands), sister; and cousins Julia Sands, Lydia Sands, Rosemary Sands, Lauren Sands and Lyda Hill.

Her other immediate family members include Kathryn Sands, who is also a Duchess this year, and Haven (Sands) Heinrichs, Jacob Sands and Stark Sands.

Miss Kathryn Bunker Sands, daughter of Mrs. Gayle Sands and the late Mr. John Bunker Sands, of Dallas, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Kathryn attends Southern Methodist University, where she is majoring in finance. She is a member of the Chi Omega sorority. Additionally, she is involved with

the Delta Sigma Pi business fraternity’s executive committee, is a Scholars of Finance member, and volunteers with the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Family members who have previously been involved with the Texas Rose Festival include Caroline Rose Hunt, grandmother; Haven Heinrichs (Sands), sister; and cousins Julia Sands, Lydia Sands, Rosemary Sands, Lauren Sands and Lyda Hill.

Her other immediate family members include Courtenay Sands, who is also a Duchess this year, and Haven (Sands) Heinrichs, Stark Sands and Jacob Sands.

Miss Lily Elizabeth Senter, daughter of Mr. Ryan Senter and Mrs. Heather Senter, of Fort Worth, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Senter attends the University of Mississippi, where she is majoring in civil engineering. She is a member of the Chi Omega sorority, where she serves in the Chi Omega Cardinal Cabinet. Additionally, she is involved as a small group leader at Pine Lake Student Ministries. She is also involved with Big Sis Oxford and the American Society of Civil Engineering.

She has two sisters including Eloise Senter and Martha Wynn Senter.

Miss Caroline Story Stiles, daughter of Mr. Adam Stiles and Mrs. Suzanne Stiles, of Houston, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Stiles attends Southern Methodist University, where she is studying economics in the Pre- Law Honors Program. She is a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. She is also involved with the SMU Look magazine and Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity.

Her sister, Miss Catherine Stiles, was a Duchess of Bunker Hill Village in 2023.

Miss Sophia Anne Ursone, daughter of Dr. Richard Ursone and Mrs. Brandi Ursone, of San Antonio, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Ursone attends Texas Tech University where she is in the pre-nursing program. She donates her time as a hospice volunteer.

Her immediate family members include her brother Luke and his wife, Angela; and

ADILEE ELIZABETH WHITE

MARY CATHERINE YOUNG

DUCHESSES Duchesses

Continued From Page 83

brothers Owen and Henry.

Miss Mary Margaret ‘Margo’ Washburne, daughter of Mr. Ray W. Washburne and Mrs. Heather Hill Washburne, of Dallas, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Her siblings include Hill Willets Washburne and Andrew Vincent Washburne. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Dulany Howland and the late Al G. Hill, Jr.

Miss Washburne attends Southern Methodist University, where she is majoring in fashion media with a double minor in art history and journalism. She is a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. Additionally, she is involved with SMU's Look magazine on the editorial staff. She also represents Kappa Kappa Gamma to Panhellenic.

Miss Washburne is looking forward to following in the footsteps of her mother,

Mrs. Heather Hill Washburne, who was a Texas Rose Festival Duchess in 1991. Other family members who previously participated on the Texas Rose Festival court include her great grandmother

Margaret Hunt Hill, who was the Texas Rose Festival Queen in 1935. Margo's Great Aunt, Lyda Hill, was a Duchess in 1961; Margo's Aunt, Elisa Hill Summers, served as Duchess in 1994; Margo's brother, Hill Willets Washburne, served as Escort in 2019 and Margo's brother, Andrew Vincent Washburne, served as Escort in 2022.

Miss Elizabeth Louise Wheless, daughter of Mr. William Meade Wheless IV and Mrs. Laura Wareing Wheless, of Houston, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss Wheless attends Southern Methodist University where she is studying business management and fashion media. She is involved with the Student Mobilization (StuMo) Bible Study and Leadership Team, SMU Look fashion magazine in the digital writing department, and is in the process of co-founding a women's sleepwear company that brings awareness to sexual violence and human trafficking.

Wheless, John Wheless, Madeline Wheless and Robert Wheless.

Miss Adilee Elizabeth White, daughter of Mr. Jerod White and Mrs. Elizabeth White, of San Angelo, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

Miss White attends The University of Texas at Austin, where she is studying human development and family sciences. She is a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. She is involved as a Kappa Rho active member, Maple Wood Elementary School reading volunteer, and Texas Pre-PA Society active member.

Family members who have previously participated in the Texas Rose Festival court include Margaret Morgan Pfluger (grandmother), Duchess of Lubbock; Amy Lin Pfluger (aunt), Duchess of San Angelo; and Bette Pfluger White (mother), Duchess of San Angelo.

Her siblings include sisters Maggie White and Ann White and brother Coleman White.

Miss Mary Catherine Young, daughter of Dr. Jeff Young and Mrs. Christi Young, of Waco, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess.

She is following in the footsteps of her mother, Mrs. Laura Wareing Wheless, who served as an outof-town Duchess in 1995. Other family members who served in the Texas Rose Festival court include 1970 Duchess Elizabeth Blanton Wareing (Grandmother); 1997 Duchess Julia Wareing Aldrich (aunt); 2000 Duchess Laura Wheless Hilgers (aunt); and 2022 Duchess Mary Elizabeth Murrin (cousin).

Her siblings include Billy

Miss Young attends Texas Christian University, where she is majoring in speech pathology. She is a member of the Tri Delta sorority. She is also involved with the TCU Showgirls Dance Team.

Family members who have participated in the Texas Rose Festival in the past include Jeffrey Young Jr., who served as an out-of-town Escort.

Other immediate family members include her sister, Madeleine Young.

DUCHESS COSTUMES

All inspired by this year's theme, Jacob A. Climer's sketches depict each gown worn by the court.

EMILY KAthleen BRENNIG ST. PATRICK'S DAY

VAIlLE ADDISON CRENSHAW

KEUKENHOF - TULIP FESTIVAL

ANNAH STANTON BROWN HIGHLAND GAMES

LENNA LOUISE CULP TROOPING THE COLOR

MARY OLIVIA DALEO MIDSUMMER

2024 TEXAS ROSE FESTIVAL DUCHESS COSTUMES

CAMRYN ELIZABETH GARZA

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS

SUSANNA SLOCUM GIRARD CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL

MEREDITH ELIZABETH HALLAM

INTERNATIONAL WILDFLOWER FESTIVAL

ANN KATHERINE

VIRGINIA JACKSON ALBUQUERQUE

INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FESTIVAL

HANNAH NONETTE JENKINS

KENSINGTON DOLLHOUSE FESTIVAL

MARGARET KATE KEOGH MARDI GRAS

KENTUCKY DERBY

ELLINGTON JANE HULL DIEPPE INTERNATIONAL KITE FESTIVAL

MICHELLE MARIE IGLESIAS STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

CHARLOTTE CLAIRE LYDICK ROCHESTER LILAC FESTIVAL

ELIZABETH FARIS MALONE BURLINGTON CAROUSEL FESTIVAL

DAY GILMER NETTLE SONGKRAn

2024 TEXAS ROSE FESTIVAL DUCHESS COSTUMES

LILLIAN SUSAN NETTLE SONGKRAn

PARKER RYAN OLIVER SUNDANCE

SUSAN LEE RICHEY YI PENG LANTERN FESTIVAL

CAROLINE STORY STILES INFIORATA

SOPHIA ANN URSONE YANSHUI FIREWORKS FESTIVAL

MARY MARGARET WASHBURN

CARNEVALE DI VENEZIA

COURTENAY CHRISTIANSON SANDS

KATHRYN BUNKER SANDS HARBIN SNOW & ICE FESTIVAL

BI-NATIONAL MACAW FESTIVAL

ELIZABETH LOUISE WHELESS CARNIVAL OF IVERA

LILY ELIZABETH SENTER SPOLETO FESTIVAL

ADILEE ELIZABETH WHITE CHRISTMAS AT THE BILTMORE

MARY CATHERINE YOUNG STURGIS

Keukenhof Tulip Festival Duchess

Love, Mom, Dad, Clara, Case, and Becks

Photo by James French Photography

Miss Vaille Addison Crenshaw

Elizabeth Faris Malone, Duchess of The Woodlands

PHOTO BY JAMES FRENCH

PHOTOGRAPHY

ATTENDANTS

Ten children from Tyler families will carry on the tradition of serving as Attendants to the Rose Queen. The Queen’s Attendants are featured during the Rose Queen’s

Coronation, the Queen’s Tea and the Texas Rose Festival Parade. The following are Attendants to Rose Queen Frances Olivia Faulconer.

ATTENDANTS

REEVES PARKER BANKSTON

Master Reeves Parker Bankston, son of Mr. Andrew Bankston and Mrs. Catherine Bankston, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Royal Page.

Master Reeves Parker attends All Saints Episcopal School.

His parents are longtime supporters of the Texas Rose Festival. His mother, Mrs. Catherine Bankston, has been highly involved in the festival throughout the years, including when she worked backstage in various positions from 20132017; chaired the annual Kickoff event in 2018 and 2019; was Program Chair in 2019; was on the Queen’s Tea Committee for Queen Molly Louise Berry in 2022; hosted the Wednesday night summer party at her home the summer of 2022; was Attendants Chair 2023; and is currently serving as assistant to Dr. Charles Stone. Mr. Andrew Bankston served as a Wrangler for a couple years and is a member of Order of the Rose.

Master Reeves Parker follows in the footsteps of his brother, William Wyatt Bankston, who was an attendant to Queen Anna Grace Hallmark in 2020-2021. The boys have one other sibling, Cynthia Catherine Bankston.

Miss Vivian Kate Deere, daughter of Mr. Jason Deere and Mrs. Luci Deere, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Royal Attendant.

She has a sister, Rosemary Scott Deere. Miss Vivian Kate attends Andy Woods Elementary School. She also attends Camp Longhorn and enjoys playing piano and volleyball.

Her mother, Mrs. Luci Deere, was previously on the Texas Rose Festival court as a Lady-in-Waiting in 2003. Additionally, she volunteered as a Backstage Coordinator ("GIBs”) for six years. Her father, Mr. Jason Deere, is a member of Order of the Rose.

Several other family members have been involved in the festival, including: Paul Scott Kittrell, 2005, Queen’s Escort; Scott Rush Kittrell, 1970, Escort and Order of the Rose Member; Lucinda Huffman Kittrell, Coronation Director, 1998-2009, TV Commentator for Parade, Coronation Script Writer, and Hair/Make-up Coordinator; Lander Wendland Kreft, Lady-in-Waiting, 2009; Taylor Kittrell Payne, Duchess, 2001; Sue Scott Deakins, Royalty and Script committees; Jim Deakins, President of Texas Rose Festival, 1983; Vivian Scott Steinmann, Duchess, 1976; Steve Bertrand Kittrell, 1975 and 1976; Edwin Newton Kittrell II, 1966; Betty Kittrell White, 1948; and Paul Bertrand Scott Jr., President of Order of the Rose.

Miss Emerson Blair Edwards, daughter of Mr. Ryan Edwards and Mrs. Ashley Edwards, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Royal Attendant.

Miss Emerson Blair attends the Brook Hill School. She has two siblings, Preston Edwards and Everly Edwards.

Her mother, Mrs. Ashley Edwards, has served the Texas Rose Festival in various capacities including by volunteering on multiple committees and chairing the 2023 Kickoff Party.

Master John Keller Lahourcade, son of Dr. Austin Lohourcade and Mrs. Allie Lahourcade, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Royal Page.

He attends All Saints Episcopal School. He has two siblings, Clay Lahourcade and Elizabeth Lahourcade.

His parents have been supporters of the festival, including his mother who has volunteered and served as a host, and his father who has served on the court.

Other family members who have served on the court include Gretchen Lahourcade, grandmother; Ashley Lahourcade Cruse, aunt; Erin Lahourcade Wolff, aunt; and Mary Ann Perryman, great grandmother.

Master Mark Thomas Land Jr., son of Mr. Mark Land Sr. and Mrs. Whitney Land, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Royal Page.

His other immediate family members include Gail Phillips Mizer (grandmother); Stephen Charles Mizer (grandfather); Stephen, Alex, Manny, Clay Mizer (uncle, aunt, and cousins); and Ashley, Hyde, Styles Morris (aunt and cousins); and the late Mr. and Mrs. Jack Loyce Phillips (great grandparents). His sister is Stella Marie Land (sister).

Master "Bodie" Mark Thomas attends All Saints Episcopal School.

His family has a legacy of involvement with the Texas Rose Festival. His mother Mrs. Whitney Land was a Train Bearer to Queen Samatha Price Fischer in 1989 then went on to serve as a Duchess 2000. She has also been actively involved as a

VIVIAN KATE DEERE

EMERSON BLAIR EDWARDS

ATTENDANTS

STYLES JAX MORRIS

volunteer with the Queen's Tea, the Ladies' Luncheon and the Men's Luncheon for multiple years; as well as fulfilling roles of Graphics Chair, Dresser, and Doorkeeper. His father Mr. Mark Land Sr. has also supported the festival as a Wrangler and Strutters sponsor for multiple years.

Other family members who have served the Texas Rose Festival either on the court or through volunteer positions include: Stella Marie Land (sister), Attendant 2020-2021; Loyce Hyde Morris (cousin), Attendant 20202021; Clay Samuel Mizer (cousin), Train Bearer 2020-2021; Stephen Jack Mizer Jr. (cousin), Attendant 2014; Thomas Sutton Schoonover-Mizer (uncle), Escort 2010; Stephen Jack Mizer Sr. (uncle), Escort 1997, Wrangler, Member of Order of the Rose; Ashley Gail Mizer (aunt), Train Bearer to Queen Jamie Arnold Lands 1982, Ladyin-Waiting 1994; Claire Abernathy Henry (cousin), Duchess 1999; Clay Madison Abernathy (cousin), Escort 1997; Leslie Abernathy Johnson (cousin), Duchess 1994; Nancy Phillips Abernathy (aunt), Duchess 1971; and Gail Phillips Mizer (grandmother), Duchess 1969.

Master Styles Jax Morris, son of Ms. Ashley Mizer Morris, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Royal Page.

He is the great grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Jack Loyce Phillips. Other immediate family members include grandmother Gail Phillips Mizer and grandfather Stephen Charles Mizer; aunt and uncle Stephen and Alex Mizer (Manny

and Clay); and aunt and uncle Mark and Whitney Land (Stella and Bodie).

Master Styles attends All Saints Episcopal School. He is involved with Odyssey of the Mind, soccer, basketball, and attends Camp La Junta.

His mother, Ms. Ashley Mizer Morris, has previously been involved with the Texas Rose Festival in official capacities on the court as well as volunteer roles. She served as Train Bearer to Queen Jamie Arnold Landes in 1982 and was a Lady-in-Waiting in 1994. Additionally, she has donated her time as Wardrobe Co-Chair, Escort Co-Chair, Past Presidents Co-Chair, Graphics Chair for many years, Doorkeeper Chair, and on the Queen’s Tea and Ladies Luncheon committees. She has participated in numerous other ways since 2008.

Other family members who have participated in the festival include Loyce Hyde Morris (brother), Attendant 2022; Gail Phillips Mizer (grandmother), 1969 Duchess; Nancy Phillips Abernathy (greataunt), 1971 Duchess; Stephen Jack Mizer (uncle), Escort 1997, wrangler and member of the Order of the Rose; Whitney Mizer Land (aunt), Train Bearer 1989 to Queen Samantha Price Fischer and Duchess 2000; Thomas Sutton Schoonover-Mizer (uncle), 2010 Escort; Clay Madison Abernathy, 1997 Escort; Claire Abernathy Henry, 1999 Duchess; Leslie Abernathy Johnson, 1994 Duchess; Stephen Jack Mizer Jr. (cousin), attendant 2014; Clay Samuel Mizer (cousin), attendant 2022; and Stella Marie Land, (cousin) attendant 2022.

Master Lawrence “Law” Lewis Loggins, son of Mr. Lesley Luke Loggins and Mrs. Courtney Lawrence Loggins, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as the Scepter Bearer to the Queen.

Law attends All Saints Episcopal School. He loves playing baseball.

His mother, Mrs. Loggins, has been involved with the Texas Rose Festival in various capacities over the years, including Queen's Tea Co-Chair, Ladies Luncheon Co-Chair, Order of Appearance Co-Chair, Program Coordinator, Graphics Chair and Backstage Coronation Committee. His father, Mr. Loggins, is a member of Order of the Rose.

Other family members involved in the festival over the years include Aunt, Blythe Loggins McCain, Lady-in-Waiting; Aunt, Lucy Loggins Russo, Lady-in-Waiting; Cousin, Cecilia Frances McCain, Queen's Trainbearer; Cousin, Eliza Mae McCain, Attendant to the Queen; and Cousin, Charles Loggins McCain, Scepter Bearer to the Queen.

Other immediate family members include his younger brother, Montgomery Wilson “Monty” Loggins.

Miss Grace Lindsey Peveto, daughter of Mr. Grant Peveto and Mrs. Melissa Peveto, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Royal Attendant.

Miss Grace Lindsey attends Andy Woods Elementary School. She has two brothers, Michael Sinclair Peveto and Joseph Clark Peveto.

Her parents have been supporters

ATTENDANTS >> PAGE 96

JOHN KELLER LAHOURCADE

MARK THOMAS LAND, JR.

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH

ATTENDANTS

Attendants

Continued From Page 96

of the Texas Rose Festival, including Mrs. Peveto’s volunteer involvement as Wardrobe Chair and Hair & Makeup Chair and serving on the Rose Show, Men's Luncheon and Ladies Luncheon committees. Mr. Peveto was an Escort in 1999 and is a member of Order of the Rose.

Other family members previously involved with the festival include Robert Sinclair Peveto (Grandfather), Escort in 1968 and Order of the Rose Member; Deborah Peveto (Grandmother) as Runner's Chairman, Assistant Escort Chairman, Rose Show Publicity Chairman, and Queen's Tea Refreshment Chairman; Clint Jason Peveto (Uncle), Escort in 1995 and Order of the Rose Member; Renee Lequenec Cole (Great Aunt) Lady-inWaiting in 1973; and Elizabeth Peveto Gracey (Great Aunt) Lady-in-Waiting in 1983.

Miss Camilla Rose Swann, daughter of Mr. Elam Franklin Swann IV and Mrs. Brooke Schulte Swann, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Train Bearer to the Queen.

She has one brother Elam Franklin “E.F.” Swann V, who was Queen Molly Louise Berry's attendant in 2022.

Miss Camilla attends All Saints Episcopal School. Camilla is a competitive cheerleader and flyer for Flyer Athletics. She also plays soccer and the drums.

Miss Camilla’s official involvement on

the Texas Rose Festival court this year comes after she was a volunteer for the Queen's Tea in 2022.

Her mother has volunteered in numerous backstage volunteer positions and recently chaired the 2023 Rose Festival Kickoff Party. Her father was Queen Audrey Bell's Escort in 2003. He is also a member of Order of the Rose.

Miss Kollins Jean Tucker, daughter of Mrs. Blake Tucker and Mr. Matthew Tucker, of Tyler, is participating in the 91st Texas Rose Festival as a Train Bearer to the Queen.

Her brother is Knox Tucker.

Miss Kollins Jean attends Andy Woods Elementary School. She is involved with cheer, hip-hop and Flyer Athletics and attends Green Acres Baptist Church.

Her mother Mrs. Tucker was once a Lady-in-Waiting on the Texas Rose Festival court. She has also previously served the Texas Rose Festival as Royalty Chairman, Attendant Chairman, Wardrobe Chairman, Executive Assistant to David Dial; 2022 Past Presidents Reception, 2023 Men's Luncheon, and the 2024 Rose Show. Mr. Tucker is an Order of the Rose member and Strutters volunteer.

Other family members involved with the festival include: Knox Tucker, Brother, Attendant to Queen Hanna Waits; Whitney Ward, Aunt, Lady-in-Waiting; Amy Goodson, Aunt, Lady-in-Waiting; and Cyndy Hough, Grandmother, Wardrobe Chairman, Make-Up Co Chair, Program CoChair, Kick off Party Co-Chair, and Order of Appearance Co- Chair.

KOLLINS JEAN TUCKER

CAMILLA ROSE SWANN

GRACE LINDSEY PEVETO

LAWERENCE LEWIS LOGGINS

Train Bearer to the Queen Kollins Jean Tucker

scepter bearer to the Queen Lawrence Lewis Loggins royal page Styles Jax Morris Reeves Parker Bankston

Train Bearer to the Queen Camilla Rose Swann

Emerson Blair Edwards royal page John Keller Lahourcade Mark Thomas Land, Jr.

DESCORTS

ozens of young men also participate in the Texas Rose Festival Queen’s Court as Escorts. The men will accompany the women during their appearances in the Queen’s Coronation ceremony and other festival events.

ESCORTS

ESCORT TO THE ROSE QUEEN

Mr. Milford Harper Davis, son of Mr. Milford Davis and Mrs. Mary Davis, of Tyler, is the Royal Escort to the Queen in the 91st Texas Rose Festival. He will escort Miss Frances Olivia Faulconer.

Milford Harper Davis attends Louisiana State University, where he is majoring in finance. He is a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. Additionally, he is involved with LSU's Asset Management Academy, the Order of Omega Honors Society and Ogden Honors College.

His mother, Mrs. Mary Davis, previously participated in the Texas Rose Festival as a Duchess from Arkansas.

ESCORT TO THE ROSE PRINCESS

Mr. Harrison Kessler Barnett, son of Mr. Frank Barnett and Mrs. Jacqueline Barnett, of Tyler, is the Royal Escort to the Princess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival. He will escort Miss Merritt Elizabeth Dial.

Harrison attends the University of Arkansas, where he is majoring in finance. He is in the Kappa Alpha fraternity. He is also involved with Club Golf.

Before his royal appointment, Mr. Barnett previously served the Texas Rose Festival by assisting in the parade with the Strutters.

His family has also previously been involved with the festival, including his mother Mrs. Jacqueline Barnett who has served in several volunteer roles including as Dresser and on the Queen’s

Tea and Makeup committees. His father, Mr. Frank Barnett, serves with the Strutters. Other family members who have previously participated in the Texas Rose Festival on the court include Henry Delmar Barnett, who was an Escort in 2022.

Other immediate family members include Hugh Walker Barnett.

ESCORT TO THE Duchess of the Rose Growers

Mr. Kade Hopkins Fry, son of Mr. John Fry III and Mrs. Bridget Fry, of Tyler, is the Royal Escort to the Duchess of the Rose Growers in the 91st Texas Rose Festival. He will escort Miss Alice Elizabeth Milton.

Kade attends Texas A&M University, where he is majoring in agribusiness. He is involved with Sports for Kids and has participated in Texas A&M Study Abroad.

His mother has served as a volunteer for the Texas Rose Festival while his father is an Order of the Rose member.

He has two siblings, sister Sara Fry and brother John Hopkins Fry IV.

Escorts TO The Ladies-in-Waiting

Mr. MacLean Alexander Arnett, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Michael Arnett, of Tyler, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

MacLean attends the University of Texas at Austin, where he

MILFORD HARPER DAVIS

ESCORTS

is majoring in neuroscience. He is a member of the Kappa Alpha Order. He is also involved with intramural basketball and works with Dell Medical School in Austin.

MacLean’s brother, Collins Arnett, previously participated in the Texas Roes Festival as an Escort.

Mr. Ashton Alan Byrd, son of Dr. Marcus Byrd and Mrs. Nikki Baker and Mr. William Henry Baker III, of Tyler, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Ashton attends Purdue University, where he is majoring in mechatronics engineering technology. He is a member of Alpha Chi Rho, where he serves on the fraternity’s executive board. He is also involved with martial arts and fishing.

His stepfather, William H. Baker III, previously participated in the Texas Rose Festival as an Escort in 1976.

Blake Byrd is his brother.

Mr. John DeWitt Berry, son of Dr. Jarett Berry and Mrs. Ashleigh Berry, of Tyler, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

John attends Texas A&M University, where he is majoring in mechanical engineering. He is a house leader in John 15 Bible Study at St. Mary's Catholic Center and is also involved with the Society of Automotive Engineers. Additionally, over the summer summer he was involved with inner-city mission work in Chicago, Illinois.

His mother, Mrs. Ashleigh Berry, served the Texas Rose Festival in a volunteer role over the summer by helping to coordinate measurements in July.

John’s siblings in Tyler include George, Rebecca, Joseph and

Nate Berry.

Mr. Nickolas Steven Bodenheimer, son of Mr. Steven Bodenheimer and Mrs. Nicole Bodenheimer, of Longview, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Nickolas attends Texas A&M University, where he is majoring in petroleum engineering. He is involved with the Aggie Club of Engineers, Society of Petroleum Engineers, and United Methodist Collegiate Ministries.

Mr. Dale Thomas Bailey Booth, son of Mr. Dale Booth and Mrs. Janet Booth, of Tyler, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

He attends Texas A&M University, where he is majoring in architectural engineering. He is involved with the B-Battery Corps of Cadets. He is also involved with the Texas Aggie Band and Aggieland Orchestra.

Prior to his court appointment, he served the Texas Rose Festival by participating in marching band in the Texas Rose Parade for six years.

Other family members involved with the festival include his cousin, Taylor Paul, who served as a Lady-in-Waiting.

His siblings include Richmond Bally Booth and Bailey Nadine Booth.

Mr. Austin Caleb Emery, son of Dr. Robert Emery and Mrs. Mindi Emery, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Austin attends Baylor University, where he is studying ESCORTS >> PAGE 104

MACLEAN ALEXANDER ARNETT

KADE HOPKINS FRY

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH

HARRISON KESSLER BARNETT

ESCORTS

Escorts

management information systems. He is involved with the Baylor Senate, serves as Vice President of the Baylor Pickleball Club and is also a member of the Baylor Climbing Club and helps with the kids ministry at a local church.

Austin moved several times throughout his childhood due to being in a military family. Recently, his father Robert completed his Air Force career with a move to Tyler. New to the area, Robert and Mindi are looking forward to their first experience with the Texas Rose Festival.

Austin’s siblings include his sisters Ashleigh Emery, Camille Emery, and Hannah Emery, and his brother Conner Emery.

Mr. Jacob Daniel Feliciano, son of Mr. Jeffery Feliciano and Mrs. Marci Feliciano, of Tyler, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Jacob attends the University of Mississippi, where he is majoring in business finance. He is a member of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity where he serves on the philanthropy committee. Additionally, he is a member of the Ole Miss Club Golf Team. His mother, Mrs. Marci Feliciano, has volunteered for the Texas Rose Festival in various capacities over the years, including helping with flower arrangements under Kelli Armstrong in 2010, serving on the Hair and Makeup Committee in 2012, and on the Transportation Committee in 2021/2022. His father, Mr. Jeffery Feliciano has served a s Strutter volunteer from 2014 to 2016, an active Strutter from 2017 to 2022, and as Strutter Advisor in 20232024.

Continued From Page 103 ESCORTS >> PAGE 106

Other family members who have served the festival through the court or volunteer roles include April Feliciano, who was a Lady-in-Waiting in 2012; Wanda Feliciano, a volunteer who was Chair of refreshments for Queen’s Tea and Chair of after-parade party for multiple years; and Jose Feliciano, who has been a Kickoff Party sponsor for multiple years and member of Order of the Rose.

Edwin Solon Holt III, son of Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Solon Holt, of Tyler, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Solon lives in Nashville, Tennessee, where he is balancing studies remotely while pursuing a career in the music industry. Solon recently signed with Universal Music Publishing Group and United Talent Agency, and is actively writing, recording, performing and touring. Prior to his Nashville journey, Solon was a business major at the University of Mississippi.

When in Tyler, Solon attends People’s Missionary Baptist Church, where he first found his voice as a musician in the gospel band.

Solon is continuing his family’s involvement with the festival, as his mother, Jennifer McMillin Holt, was a Duchess and has served on numerous Texas Rose Festival committees, including Wardrobe, Ladies Luncheon and the Queen’s Tea. His father, Edwin Solon Holt, is a past president of the Texas Rose Festival Strutters and member of the Order of the Rose. Edwin also hosts the annual “Big Daddy” event following the men’s golf tournament during the summer rehearsal weekend.

Other family members who have participated in the festival include brothers James McMillin Holt and Homer Bryce Holt, both

JOHN DEWITT BERRY

NICKOLAS STEVEN BODENHEIMER

ASHTON ALAN BYRD

DALE THOMAS BAILEY BOOTH

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

EDWIN SOLON HOLT III

AUSTIN CALEB EMERY

REED WILLIAM HOWELL

JACOB DANIEL FELICIANO

SLOAN BRYAN IRWIN

ESCORTS

Escorts

Continued From Page 104

who served as Escorts.

Mr. Reed William Howell, son of Mr. Matt Howell and Mrs. Tamma Howell, of Houston, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Reed attends the University of Mississippi, where he is majoring in accounting. He is a member of the Kappa Alpha Order. He is also involved as an analytics intern for the Ole Miss Basketball Team.

He has one brother, Matthew H. Howell.

Mr. Sloan Bryan Irwin, son of Mr. Bryan Irwin and Mrs. Catherine Irwin, of Canton, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Sloan attends Abilene Christian University, where he is majoring in finance. He is a member of the Fraternity of Galaxy. He is also involved with the Honors College, Real Estate and Banking Society, and World's Backyard, a student-led ministry to serve the refugee children in the Abilene area.

Sloan’s mother, Mrs. Catherine Irwin, was a Duchess in the 1988 Texas Rose Festival. Other family members who have participated on the Texas Rose Festival court include Mary Catherine Wallace, who was a Lady-in-Waiting in 2018; William Henry Wallace, who was a Lady-in-Waiting Escort in 2022; and Sarabeth Jane Wallace, who was a Lady-in-Waiting in 2022.

Sloan’s other immediate family members include Lewis Paul Irwin.

Mr. Matthew Anthony Laine Jr., son of Mr. Matthew Laine and Mrs. Suzanne Laine, of Tyler, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

He attends Texas A&M University, where he is majoring in urban planning in the College of Architecture. He is an avid golfer.

His sisters, Elizabeth Reid Laine and Caroline Leigh Laine have both participated in the Texas Rose Festival as Ladies-in-Waiting. He has one other sibling, his brother Charles Edward Laine.

His mother, Mrs. Suzanne Laine, has served the Texas Rose Festival in the past on the court as a Duchess and has been a volunteer as well. She has also been the mother of two Ladiesin-Waiting. Mr. Matthew Laine has also served the festival as a volunteer.

Mr. Peyton William Martinez, son of Mr. Roy Martinez and Mrs. Anne Martinez, of Tyler, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Peyton attends Texas A&M University, where he is majoring in industrial distribution engineering. He is also involved with the Texas A&M Climbing Team, Professional Association for Industrial Distribution (PAID), and Aggie Climbing Club.

His mother, Mrs. Anne (Elizabeth Pilgrim) Martinez, was a Ladyin-Waiting in 1994. His father, Mr. Roy Martinez, is an Order of the Rose member.

Peyton has one sibling, his sister Katelyn Martinez.

Mr. Hayden Cade McCullough, son of Judge Amy Motes McCullough and Mr. David Earl McCullough, of Tyler, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Hayden attends the United States Naval Academy. He is

ESCORTS

pursuing a major in foreign area studies with a minor in Chinese. He is the 28th Company Drill Sergeant in charge of training military bearing and basic rifle and sword handling for ceremonial and parade presentations.

He is also involved as the Romeo Company Summer Detailer responsible for teaching, mentoring and guiding the incoming class to prepare them for assimilation into the Brigade of Midshipmen. Additionally, as SCUBA Club Operations Officer, he oversees efficiency, effectiveness and safety of all SCUBA diving operations for basic through master certifications.

Before Hayden’s appointment to the Texas Rose Festival court, he participated in the Texas Rose Parade as a Cub Scout, carrying the Rose Queen's banner.

His parents have served the Texas Rose Festival as hosts of the Thursday Luncheon and hosts of summer events.

Hayden’s brother, Alexander Ross McCullough, was an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in 2018.

Mr. Garrett Matthew Melton, son of Mr. David Melton and Mrs. Michelle Melton, of Tyler, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Garrett attends Tyler Junior College, where he is majoring in construction management. He is also involved on the fishing team.

His mother, Mrs. Michelle Melton, served as a committee member in 2019 and was Chair for the Escort Party in 2024. His father Mr. David Melton participated with the Rose Parade in 2021-2022.

Garrett’s brother, Brooks Melton, has participated in the Texas Rose Festival as an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in 2019 and in a

volunteer role as Wrangler from 2021-2024.

He has other brother, Grant Melton.

Mr. Bryce James Newman, son of Mr. Brad Newman and Mrs. Terry Newman, of Tyler, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Bryce attends Texas A&M University, where he is majoring in construction science/construction management. He is involved with Breakaway Ministries, participates in recreational athletics, hunts and performs community service for veterans.

Other immediate family members include his brother, Brady Newman, who is married to Jacie Newman, of Tyler.

Mr. George William Rippy, son of Mr. Lewis Rippy and Mrs. Jennifer Rippy, of Tyler, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

George attends Texas Tech University, where he is majoring in business. He is a member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. He is also involved with intramural sports.

Prior to his court appointment, George was Scepter Bearer to Queen Morgan Rippy in 2011. His family has also been involved in the Texas Rose Festival. His mother, Mrs. Jennifer Rippy, was a Lady-in-Waiting in 1991 and has volunteered through various roles over the years. His father, Mr. Lewis Rippy, was an Escort in 1985.

Additionally, his brother Bradley Rippy was an Escort in 2019; cousin Morgan Rippy Young was the Queen in 2011; cousin Sloane Winifred Tefteller was a Queen’s Attendant in 2018; Aunt Susan Thomas Rippy was Train Bearer in 1972; Uncle Matt Tefteller

GARRETT MATTHEW MELTON

PHOTOS

BRYCE JAMES NEWMAN

GEORGE WILLIAM RIPPY

ESCORTS

Escorts

Continued From Page 107

was an Escort in 1993; Uncle Charles Rippy was Escort to the Queen in 1981; and Uncle Reed Rippy was involved in the festival in 1978.

George’s other immediate family members include his brother, Calvin Frank Rippy.

Mr. Walter Gregory Smith, son of Mr. Gregory Smith and Mrs. Stefanie Smith, of Lindale, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Other immediate family members include Lyn Long, grandmother; Walter Long, late grandfather; Katie Smith, sister; Heather and Judd Long, aunt and uncle; Jerry and Linda Cole, great aunt and great uncle; Michele and Doug Cole, cousins; and Christi and Fred Khalaf, cousins.

Walter attends the University of Oklahoma, where he is majoring in healthcare business. He is a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity.

Walter’s family has a long history with the Texas Rose Festival. His mother, Stefanie Long Smith was a Lady-in-Waiting in 1991. Since then, she has served the Texas Rose Festival in various volunteer capacities including on Wardrobe Committee 20162017, and currently serving as Escort Moms Chair for 2024.

Other family members who have been involved with the festival either on the court or through volunteer roles include: Katherine Carrol "Katie" Smith, sister, 2023 Lady-in-Waiting; Walter Long, grandfather, member of Strutters 1980-2000 and President of Strutters, 1986; Lyn Long, grandmother, Parade Float

Decorating Committee 1982-2002; Heather Hamby Long, aunt, Wardrobe Committee, 2016-2017; Jerry R. Cole, Uncle, member of Strutters 1974-1994 and Strutters President, 1994, also currently serving on Tyler Rose Museum Board of Directors; Linda Long Cole, aunt, Parade Float Decorating Committee, 1982-1994; Christi Cole Khalaf, cousin, Lady-in-Waiting 1992, Wardrobe Committee 2012-2015, Queen’s Tea Wardrobe Chair 2016-2017, Coronation Hospitality Co-Chair 2018-2019 and Queen’s Tea Committee 2023; Michael Douglas Cole, cousin, Duchess Escort 1990; Fred Khalaf, cousin, member of Strutters since 2015 and was Strutters President in 2019; Mallory Renee Cole, cousin, Lady-in-Waiting, 2021; Caroline Khalaf, cousin, Queen’s Attendant Dresser 2022; and Catelin Khalaf, cousin, Queen’s Tea Runner 2023.

Mr. Earl Stovall Story, son of Mr. Kirk Story and the late Mrs. Cindy Story, of Tyler, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Earl attends Tyler Junior College, where he is majoring in mechanical engineering. He is also involved in weight-lifting.

Earl’s father Mr. Kirk Story has served the Texas Rose Festival as an Escort and as a member of Order of the Rose. Additionally, Earl’s grandfather, Earl "Buddy" Story is a Past President and member of Order of the Rose.

Mr. Tanner Mason Thyen, son of Dr. Andrew Thyen and Mrs. Danielle Thyen, of Edmond, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Although the family now lives in Edmond, Tanner will always consider Tyler as home. His brother Brady Thyen is a senior at

ESCORTS >> PAGE 110

TANNER MASON THYEN

JAMES MITCHELL TOLLETT

WALTER GREGORY SMITH

CADE CAMP BAILEY

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

CADEN WILSON BROWN

CLAY MICHAEL CAMERON ALEXANDER COLGIN DIETZ

DANIEL BLAIR BAKER

WILLIAM CONNOR BURKE

ESCORTS

Escorts

Continued From Page 108

University of Tennessee and his sister, Emerson Thyen, is a high school junior at Crossings Christian School.

Tanner is attending Texas Tech University, where he is majoring in sports management and business.

Tanner’s mother, Mrs. Danielle Thyen, has previously volunteered for the Texas Rose Festival as a Dresser.

Mr. James Mitchell Tollett, son of Rev. Mitchell Tollett and Mrs. Camille Tollet, of Tyler, is an Escort to a Lady-in-Waiting in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

James attends the University of Oklahoma, where he is majoring in computer science. He is a member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. He is also involved in Honors College, Application Developed Research Team, Sing, Sooner Scandals and Big Event.

His mother, Mrs. Camille Tollet, has previously volunteer for the Texas Rose Festival as a Dresser and Backstage Assistant at the ball.

Escorts TO The Duchesses

Mr. Cade Camp Bailey, son of Mr. Camp Bailey and Mrs. Sheri Bailey, of Houston, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Cade attends Texas Christian University, where he is majoring in business. He is a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. In addition to his involvement at the business school and through his fraternity, Cade enjoys hunting and fishing.

Cade’s family members who have previously participated in the Texas Rose Festival include his aunt Jenna Bailey Junell and cousin Bailey Elizabeth Junell.

Mr. Daniel Blair Baker, son of Mr. Dana Blair Baker and Mrs. Stephanie Baker, of Dallas, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Daniel attends Stanford University, where he is studying management science and engineering, data science, and Spanish. He is in the Delta Kappa Tau fraternity. Additionally, Daniel is involved with the Stanford Tour Guides, Reformed University Fellowship, and Stanford Finance Club.

Other family members who have participated in the Texas Rose Festival include Alexander Curtis Baker II who was a 2021 Escort.

Daniel has one sister, Zoe Grace Baker, of Dallas.

Mr. Caden Wilson Brown, son of Mrs. Jennifer Brown and Mr. Doak Brown, of Houston, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Caden attends Texas Christian University, where he is majoring in real estate finance. He is a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, where he is Rush Chair. Additionally, Caden is Treasurer of Ducks Unlimited TCU Chapter and a member of the TCU Real Estate Club.

Mr. William Connor Burke, son of Mrs. Holly Long Burke and the late Christopher Burke, of Tyler, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

William attends Tyler Junior College, where he is studying business. He plays soccer and draws as an artist. He also enjoys

MURRAY MICHAEL LOHNER IV

WILLIAM HARTMANN HUSTED

ROBERT FULTON FRENCH

ESCORTS

spending time traveling.

His mother, Mrs. Holly Long Burke, has served in various capacities over the years, including on the Wardrobe Committee as Costume Coordinator for three years and Committee Head for seven years; on the Winter Gala Committee, which she once chaired. Additionally, Mrs. Burke was on the Texas Rose Festival court as a Lady-in-Waiting in 1996.

Other family members who have involvement with the festival include Lea Holland, Aunt, Lady-in-Waiting 1993; William Long, grandfather, Treasurer of the Tyler Rose Museum; and Claudia Long, grandmother, Chair and host of several parties.

William has one brother, Sean Cody Burke.

Mr. Clay Michael Cameron, son of Mrs. Latresa “LT” Cameron, of Houston, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Clay attends the University of Texas at Austin, where he is majoring in Human Dimensions of Organizations. He is a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He is also involved with intramural sports, golf and student organizational clubs.

Clay has two brothers, Reeves Davis Cameron and Wilson Richard Cameron.

Mr. Alexander Colgin Dietz, son of Mr. William Dietz Jr. and Mrs. Elizabeth Dietz, of Waco, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Alexander attends Southern Methodist University, where he is majoring in finance and film. He is a member of Beta Upsilon Chi (BYX). Additionally, he is IFC Vice President of Programming and Public Relations, Hegi Career Leaders Career Captain and involved

with SMU Alternative Asset Center Program.

Other family members who have participated in the festival include William Henry Dietz III who was an Escort.

Mr. Robert Fulton French, son of Mr. William French and Mrs. Kara French, of Fort Worth, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Robert attends Texas Christian University, where he is majoring in geology. He is a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He enjoys golf, flying and photography.

Other family members who have participated in the festival include his aunt, Elizabeth Murray Fronterhouse, who was a Duchess of Dallas in 1981.

Robert has two sisters, Millicent French and Annabelle French.

Mr. William Hartmann Husted, son of Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Bowie Husted, of Houston, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

William attends the University of Texas at Austin.

Mr. Murray Michael Lohner IV, son of Mr. Mike Lohner and Mrs. Mandy Lohner, of Dallas, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Michael attends Texas Tech University, where he is majoring in finance and accounting. He is a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. Michael is involved in the Economics Club, Business Valuation Club and Political Science Club at Texas Tech.

Michael has family roots in the Texas Rose Festival, as his mother Mandy Threlkeld Lohner was a Lady-in-Waiting in 1991

HUDSON GRANT LOYD

RYAN CURTIS LOVELL

ROBERT WOODSON LYDICK JR.

ESCORTS

Escorts

Continued From Page 111

and was involved in the Texas Rose Festival growing up in Tyler. Other family members involved with the festival on the court and through volunteer roles include: Lori Threlkeld Knight, aunt, Ladyin-Waiting 1986 and has served on several festival committees including Men's Luncheon, Rose Show, Coronation and Royalty co-chair; Scott Knight, uncle, Escort 1983 and 1984, who is a member of the Order of the Rose, Strutters and also served as a Coronation Usher for many years; Todd William Threlkeld, uncle, 1984 Escort; Grace Ann Knight, cousin, 2006 Attendant to the Queen and Lady-in-Waiting 2017; Kenneth Threlkeld Knight, cousin, Escort 2021; William Scott Knight Jr., cousin, Escort 2021.; and grandparents Cheryl Threlkeld and Kenneth Threlkeld have participated in the festival as well.

Michael has one sister, Maude Margaret Lohner.

Mr. Ryan Curtis Lovell, son of Mr. Loren Lovell and Mrs. Carla Lovell, of The Woodlands, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Ryan attends Texas Christian University, where he is majoring in finance. He is a member of the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, where he serves as treasurer. Additionally he is involved with the The Ability Experience charity. Ryan is on the Dean's List at TCU.

Ryan’s mother, Mrs. Carla Lovell, was a Lady-in-Waiting on the 1988 Texas Rose Festival court.

Other family members involved with the festival include: Mallory Curtis (Ryan's cousin) Queen 2016; Will Curtis (Ryan's cousin) Escort to the Queen 2014; Brad Curtis (Ryan's uncle)

President of TRF 2018 and Escort 1986; Suzanne Curtis (Ryan's aunt) Coronation and Queen's Tea Chair; and R.C. Curtis (Ryan's grandfather) Escort 1962.

Ryan has one brother, Sam Lovell.

Mr. Hudson Grant Loyd, son of Mr. Michael Loyd and Mrs. Karman Loyd, of Longview, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Hudson attends the University of Texas, where he is majoring in corporate communications. He is a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. Other involvement includes Texas Trophy Hunters, Ducks Unlimited, and McCombs Supply Train.

Mr. Robert Woodson Lydick Jr., son of Robert Lydick and Holly Lydick, of Fort Worth, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Roberts twin sister, Charlotte Claire Lydick, is serving in the festival as well as the 2024 Duchess of Fort Worth.

Robert attends the University of Texas, where he is majoring in Human Dimensions of Organization (HDO). He is a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, where he serves as Rush Chairman.

Family members who have previously participated in the Texas Rose Festival include his mother, Holly Heath Lydick, who was Duchess of Longview in 1991, and his grandfather, James Neal Heath, who was an Escort.

Mr. Scott Donnelly Martin Jr., son of Mr. Scott Martin and Mrs. Kimberly Martin, of Houston, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Scott is the grandson of the late Mr. Ferris J. Renfro and Ms.

WILLIAM MICHAEL “MAC” MCKENZIE CHRISTOPHER GIORDANO MEANS

SCOTT DONNELLY MARTIN JR

ESCORTS

Betty Renfro of Tyler and Mr. and Mrs. R.S. Martin of Kilgore.

Scott attends Texas Christian University, where he is majoring in accounting in the Neeley School of Business and plans to attend law school. He serves as a Student Volunteer in the Office of the Chancellor, and enjoys hunting, fishing, basketball and golf.

Other family members who have previously been involved with the Texas Rose Festival include Margaret Elizabeth Martin, sister, 2018 Duchess; Sarah Louise Martin, sister, 2021 Duchess; Christy Avent Conte, cousin, 1987 Lady-in-Waiting; Courtney Martin Stovall, cousin, Duchess; Shannon Tate Burton, cousin, 1998 Duchess of the Rose Growers; Jennifer Tate Guajardo, cousin, 2003 Duchess of the Rose Growers; and Alexis Renee Smith, cousin, 2019 Duchess of the Rose Growers.

Mr. William Michael “Mac” McKenzie, son of Mr. Peter Humphries McKenzie and the late Mrs. Helen-Marie Shea McKenzie, of Dallas, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Mac attends the University of Texas at Austin, where he is majoring in communications and business. He is a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. In addition to his fraternity involvement, he is involved with intramural sports and golf.

Mac is following in the footsteps of his father Mr. Peter Humphries McKenzie, who was an Escort in the Texas Rose Festival in the fall of 1980. Other family members involved in the festival over the years include Mrs. Sally Freeman McKenzie, Grandmother, who was a Duchess in 1950 and Mrs. Martha McKenzie Hill, Aunt, also a Duchess, in 1977.

Mr. Christopher Giordano Means, son of Mr. Henry Means

and Mrs. Aline Means, of Houston, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Christopher attends Texas A&M University, where he is studying economics. He is a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, where he serves as Social Chair. Additionally, he is involved with the TAMU Economics Society and Big Brothers Big Sister of Brazos Valley.

Christopher is following in the footsteps of his father Mr. Henry Means, who was once an Escort in the Texas Rose Festival. Other family members involved in the festival over the years include his aunt, Martha Means, who was a Lady-in-Waiting.

Christopher’s other immediate family members include his sister Charlotte Aline Means, grandparents Mr. and Mrs. Henry Furman Means Jr. and aunt Martha Woodmancy Means.

Mr. Warren Andrew Oliver, son of Mr. James Oliver and Mrs. Katy Oliver, of Ozona, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Warren attends Texas A&M University, where he is majoring in agriculture leadership and development. He is a member of Beta Theta Pi. He is also involved with The Big Give.

Warren’s brother, Will Oliver, was an Escort in 2021.

Mr. Leland Alvinus Prowse V, son of Mr. and Mrs. Leland Alvinus Prowse IV, of Fort Worth, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

He attends Texas A&M University and is a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity.

WARREN ANDREW OLIVER

AIDAN THOMAS SEAT

REED KING RUFFENO

Escorts

Continued From Page 113

Mr. Reed King Ruffeno, son of Mr. J. MacDonald Ruffeno Jr. and Mrs. Tracy Ruffeno, of Houston, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Reed attends Texas A&M University, where he is majoring in animal science. Reed is a Life Member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, where he volunteers on the Junior Rodeo Committee. He is a member of Aggieland Ducks Unlimited and the Texas A&M University Horse Judging Team, and enjoys hunting, fishing and sports.

Reed's sister, Ramsey Grace Ruffeno, was the Duchess of Space City in the 2023 Texas Rose Festival. Reed's brothers are Julius M. Ruffeno III ("Trace") and Charles Crockett Ruffeno.

Mr. Aidan Thomas Seat, son of Mr. Brandon Seat and Mrs. Melanie Seat, of Palestine, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Aidan attends Texas Tech University, where he is majoring in technical communications. He is a member of Saddle Tramps, a freshman orientation counselor, and also involved with the Student Leadership Institute.

Other immediate family members include Austin Gardner Seat and Allie Michelle Seat.

Mr. Mark Hampton Pillsbury Jr., son of Dr. Evans Smith and Mrs. Carrie Caton Smith, of Houston, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Hampton attends the University of Texas, where he is studying

Plan II and anthropology/archaeology. He is a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity.

His parents have supported the Texas Rose Festival as party hosts. Additionally, his stepfather Dr. Evans Smith has been a member of Order of the Rose and currently serves as the Treasurer.

Family members who have previously been involved with the Texas Rose Festival include his mother Carrie, who was a Ladyin-Waiting in 1989; Eliza Caton Pillsbury, Lady-in-Waiting; Aunts Sarah Wynne and Claire Caton, Ladies-in-Waiting; Grandmother Patsy Clapp, Lady-in-Waiting; Great Grandmother Jean Hudson Caton, Lady-in-Waiting; Stepsister MaGee Smith Shelton, Lady-inWaiting; and stepbrother Henry Marsh Smith, Escort.

Hampton’s other siblings include his sister Eliza Caton Pillsbury.

Mr. Joseph Clark Thompson IV, son of Mr. Joseph Thompson III and Mrs. Shannon Thompson, of Dallas, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Joseph attends Southern Methodist University, where he is studying business analytics and supply chain management. He is a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. He also was involved with the SMU summer abroad program 2024 (Barcelona, Spain) and as a St. Mark's Wilderness Program Guide.

He has a long history of family involvement with the Texas Rose Festival, including: Grandmother - Dottie Key Thompson (1961 Duchess); Aunt - Dottie Thompson Poston (1985 Duchess); Aunt - Shannon Thompson Bradford (1993 Duchess); Great AuntJanie Key Wilson (1953 Duchess); Great Uncle - Homer Key (1968 President of the Order of the Rose); Great Aunt - Jean Key (1962 Queen's Coronation Ball Committee); Cousins: Eugenia Key – 1969 Rose Queen, Caroline Key – 2000 Rose Queen, Randy Key – 2001

PHOTOS BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

EARL STOVALL STORY

JOSEPH CLARK THOMPSON IV

MARK HAMPTON PILLSBURY JR.

ESCORTS

President of the Texas Rose Festival, 1985 President of the Order of the Rose, 1972 Escort, Martha Key, 1987 Queen's Coronation Ball Chairman, Denning Key – 2004 President of the Order of the Rose, 1977-1979 Escort, Jan Key - 2006 Queen's Coronation Ball Chairman, Will Key – 1998-1999 Escort, Meg Rodman – 1998 Lady-in-Waiting, Frances Key – 2007 Lady-in-Waiting, Katy McKellar - 2009 Lady-in-Waiting, Sarah McKellar - 2014 Lady-in-Waiting, Gracie Key – 2020 Attendant to the Queen, Lisa Weldin - 1973 Duchess of Shreveport, Annette Key Mallard - 1983 Duchess of Shreveport, Jane Louise Beaird2007 Duchess and Colton Key – 2008 Escort.

Mr. Austin Duncan Underwood, son of Mr. Duncan Underwood and Mrs. Sarah Underwood, of Houston, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Austin attends Texas A&M University, where he is majoring in university studies in architecture.

Other family members who have participated in the festival include his aunt, Catherine "Trina" Underwood Murray who was a Dutchess in the late 1990s. Additionally, Austin’s cousin Laura Trammell Baird was Duchess of River Oaks, 1990; cousin Charlotte Fondren Baird was Duchess of River Oaks, 2019; and cousin Berkeley Elizabeth Baird, Duchess of River Oaks, 2022.

Austin has a sister, Riley Cannon Underwood.

Mr. Kellis Patrick Green, son of Mr. Patrick Green and Mrs. Kori Green, of Fort Worth, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

Kellis attends the University of Texas, where he is majoring in finance. He is a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He is also involved with the Longhorn Supply Chain Club.

Other immediate family members include Rainey Green.

Mr. Andrew Wade Williamson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Philip Charles Williamson, of Fort Worth, is an Escort to a Duchess in the 91st Texas Rose Festival.

He attends Texas Tech University and is a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity.

AUSTIN DUNCAN UNDERWOOD

KELLIS PATRICK GREEN

LELAND ALVINUS PROWSE V

ANDREW WADE WILLIAMSON

TCOMMITTEES

he Texas Rose Festival couldn't take place without the efforts of hundreds of volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure events go off without a hitch. From officers of the Rose Festival Association to those who make sure the thousands of roses in the Rose Show are in place, volunteers perform a labor of love.

COMMITTEES

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH

TEXAS ROSE FESTIVAL PRESIDENT William “Bill” Evans, right, and President’s Assistant Cassie Hampe.

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH EXECUTIVE BOARD Dr. Charles Stone, left, Bill Evans, Liz Ballard, Michael Young, Trey Yarbrough and David S. Dial.

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH

ROSE SHOW COMMITTEE Blake Tucker, left, and David S. Dial

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH CORONATION CO-CHAIR Nicole Robbins, Vice President of the Coronation Michael Young and Coronation Co-Chair Chelsea Cooper

CORONATION COMMITTEE MEMBERS include Co-Chairs Chelsea Cooper and Nicole

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH

ROSE MUSEUM STAFF MEMBERS include Elizabeth Boone, Liz Ballard, Lynda Evans and Pat Johnson.

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH

Robbins, Vice President of the Coronation Michael Young, and Royalty Co-Chairs Kim Fender and Lindsey Harrison.

COMMITTEES

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH

LADIES LUNCHEON COMMITTEE MEMBERS include Cassie Hampe, William “Bill” Evans, Melissa Jackson and Misty Jones.

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH MEN’S LUNCHEON COMMITTEE MEMBERS include MK Eagleton, Kristina Norris, Hallie Jennings, and Lauren Stoltz.

Not pictured are Lauren Woods and Claire Cozad.

COMMITTEES

THE STRUTTERS INCLUDE,

ACCESSORIES COORDINATORS

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH

from left, back row: Carter Grooms, Cameron Cooper, Michael Stoltz, Ryan Bailes, Patrick Cooper, George Arnold, John Wampler, Michael Wallace, J. Scott Herod, and front row: Bryan Hodges, Bryan Irwin, William Robbins, Clay Dickeson, Hunter Carr and Will Goodson.

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH

include Laura Cannan, Bonnie Varner and Adrienne Ewert Jones. Also pictured is Escort Chair Stefanie Smith, right.

COMMITTEES

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH COSTUME COORDINATORS include Kim Ricks, Haley Simpson, Holly Burke, Natalie Simmons, Lea Holland, and Denise Bardsley.

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH WARDROBE COMMITTEE COCHAIRPERSONS include Grace Grooms and Virginia Keith.

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH WARDROBE PROPERTIES COMMITTEE MEMBERS include Jión Dietz, Katie Gold, Jamie Kirby, Kim Merrick, Katy Kummerfeld, and Kaitlyn Allgeier.

COMMITTEES

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH CORONATION COMMITTEE include, from left, Virginia Keith, Grace Grooms, Nicole Robbins (co-chair), Chelsea Cooper (co-chair), Jennifer Pierce, Allison Kersh and Katie Jiral.

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH GRAPHICS COMMITTEE MEMBERS Jamie Irwin and Victoria Kittrell.

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH DOORKEEPERS Julie Gibson and Meredith King and Publicity

Chair Belinda Short, center.

COMMITTEES

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH BALL COMMITTEE MEMBERS include Patrick Willis, Laurie Ann Frank, Mary Ann Cozby and Kristina Wrenn.

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH TEA DRESSING COORDINATORS include Lindsay Strange, Tricia Chelsey Sepmoree, Lindsay Durr, Courtney Bugg, Catherine Chelsey Goodgion, Regan Howlett and Laurie Ann Frank.

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH THE CHOREOGRAPHY TEAM includes Joy Mace, left, who serves as Choreographer Assistant while Lynn Ramey serves as Choreographer.

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH MAKEUP AND HAIR COORDINATORS include Mallory Dougherty and Amy Goodson.

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH PICTURED ARE Script Writer Katie Powell, Narrator Randy Key and Production Chair Holly Marsh.

COMMITTEES

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH WRANGLERS COMMITTEE MEMBERS include Austin Luce and Chaperone/Wrangler Chair Brooks Melton.

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH HOSPITALITY COMMITTEE MEMBERS include Alyssa Navetta, Katie Jiral, Allison Kersch, Claire Uzzell, Kelly McWilliams and Katie Zamora.

COMMITTEES

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH LADIES IN WAITING COMMITTEE member Meredith Twaddell.

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH MEN'S LUNCHEON COMMITTEE Hallie Jennings, left, and Trey Yarbrough.

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH ROSE SHOW COMMITTEE MEMBERS include Ashley Edwards, Robin Heaton, Blake Tucker, Blythe McCain and Allie Lahourcade.

COMMITTEES

QUEEN'S TEA CO-CHAIRS from Left, Julie Thompson and Catharine Faulconer, and Texas Rose Festival Queen's Tea Committee member Libby Berry. (Contributed Photo)

PHOTO BY LES HASSELL/TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH PAST PRESIDENTS Catherine Bankston, left, and Dr. Charles Stone.

photo by James French Photography

FEATURES

The Texas Rose Festival is a huge production that requires work from officials, committees, volunteers, and the court itself. From the elaborate gowns to the staging and planning, time is spent on every single detail, and that work begins long before the festival arrives in October.

All the Right Moves

Girls practice choreography months ahead of festival

STORY BY THE TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH STAFF

While the multi-day festivities aren’t until October, everyone knows the Texas Rose Festival begins long before the big event.

Things begin early in January with a kickoff with several events to follow throughout the year. As for the girls on the court, their duties start early, too. The Rose Queen and her court represent Tyler throughout the year, and each young lady is invested in being a stunning representation of the Rose City.

Over the summer, the girls can be found in a local dance studio practicing their choreography.

Months ahead of the festival, Dance-N-Drill Studio Owner Lynn Ramey works with the court each year to direct and teach the girls what they would be doing on stage during the Rose Festival.

“It’s all about posture and movement and posing, blocking, looking and moving beautifully,” Ramey said in an earlier interview.

Ramey has been the choreographer for the Rose Festival for over two decades. The talented leader teaches the entire court, including

young Attendants to the Queen.

“There is a lot of hard work that the audience would never probably understand unless you watch. It’s very specific, it’s very detailed,” Ramey explained. “Each participant has something unique to her choreography and her bows, and we put in hours of practice.”

Each girl has her own poses that Ramey works to create based off of the dresses, music they’re going to perform with and script. Ramey then works one-on-one with the girls to teach them their poses.

Due to the girls’ busy schedules with college, internships or studying abroad, it’s essential to put in the necessary hours during the summer when the girls are in town.

Additionally, the court practices for four days before the festival in October.

With decades under her belt, Ramey doesn’t grow tired of this special job. She loves being a part of the festival more and more every year. She especially enjoys promoting and being part of the Tyler community, meeting new people and practicing her God-given talent.

LES HASSELL/STAFF PHOTO

ANN KATHERINE VIRGINIA JACKSON, Duchess of Longview, left, and Charlotte Claire Lydick, Duchess of Fort Worth, practice their moves in July during a summer rehearsal.

TEXAS ROSE FESTIVAL CHOREOGRAPHER Lynn Ramey is owner at Dance-N-Drill Studio, where she works with the court each year to direct and teach them their stage moves.

LADY-IN-WAITING

THE GIRLS put in days of formal practice during the summer and again the week of the festival to ensure they are prepared for the big event.

LES HASSELL/STAFF PHOTO

LES HASSELL/STAFF PHOTO

MARY HELEN CATON practices at Dance-N-Drill Studio in Tyler in July.

LES HASSELL/STAFF PHOTO

THE BLUEBONNET FESTIVAL draws 35,000 people annually to Burnet, Texas, each April. The costume of Miss Caroline Nicole Wells, a Lady-in-Waiting, is inspired by this annual festival. (David J. Phillip/Associated Press File Photo)

FANFARE OF FESTIVALS

Festival’s theme highlights the wonder that spirit of festivals inspire across the

SANTANA WOOD santana@mrobertmedia.com

The 91st Texas Rose Festival promises to be an elaborate and showy display celebrating the city’s rose industry. Preparations for the longtime Tyler tradition well underway as 2024 kicked off, with the 91st anniversary celebration beginning in January at the Winter Gala and Tyler Rose Museum Benefit Willow Brook Country Club.

One of the highlights of the black-tie event was the highly-anticipated announcement of the festival’s theme — Fanfare of Festivals.

Fanfare is defined as a “short and lively sounding of trumpets” or a “showy, outward display,” according to dictionary.com. It is typically used to introduce someone or something important – fitting for Tyler’s longtime tradition of a Queen and her court who represent the Rose City and its storied history.

At the reveal, the 2024 logo was printed on a large board and propped up on an easel, tactically covered by a black velvet drape. When it came time for the announcement, Texas Rose Festival Co-Chairs Nicole Robbins and Chelsea Cooper joined on each side of the easel and unveiled the colorful logo. The reveal roused the crowd, which clapped in awe. Prior to the reveal, a video was presented to describe the meaning behind the theme and its accompanying logo.

The logo’s main component is a crown adorned with a number of jewels, broaches, and floral imagery, such as Texas bluebonnets. Golden roses sit atop the high points of the crown, each designed to look like a dress train. Other elements on the logo include cowboy boots, masquerade masks, a violin, and more.

Each piece of the logo is a nod to cultural, musical, and

world

FEATURES

THE TEXAS ROSE FESTIVAL'S 2024 theme of Fanfare of Festivals inspired by festivals around the world, such as Mardi Gras. (Gerald Herbert/Associated Press File Photo)

MISS EMMA LIEN-NAGLE'S costume is inspired by the State Fair of Texas. (Stewart F. House/The Fort Worth Star-Telegram via AP)

THE TEXAS BUTTERFLY FESTIVAL is one of the many festivals depicted through this year's costumes designed by Jacob A. Climer. (Pat Sullivan/Associated Press File Photo)

FEATURES

THE 91ST TEXAS ROSE FESTIVAL theme “Fanfare of Festivals” was unveiled in January at the annual Winter Gala and Benefit.

festivals

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arts festivals across the world and highlights the beauty and wonder that the spirit of festivals inspire — including “our very own Texas Rose Festival,” said Robbins.

Festivals have a certain magic about them that promote unity, standing as a testament to humanity and honoring roots, according to the Texas Rose Festival. For hundreds of years, festivals have continued to inspire, educate and bring people together. Over the years, all sorts of festivals have transformed, become larger and more diverse while promoting community and progress, according to TRF. The grandeur of festivals allows communities to “revel in the joy of life,” according to TRF.

The theme represents the “legacy of years past” meeting “the excitement of the present,” said Michael Young, Texas Rose Festival Vice President of Coronation.

The elaborate costumes for the court, including the queen, princess, ladies-in-waiting and duchesses, were inspired by the

theme. The festival’s designer, Jacob A. Climer, has been designing costumes for the Texas Rose Festival since 2021. Climer picked up the reins for longtime designer Winn Morton, who retired after the 2019 festival and passed away in May 2022.

Other elements of the October festival, including ceremonial events such as the Queen’s Coronation, Queen’s Tea, Rose Presentation and Rose Parade, are centered around the theme.

The theme is a fitting one for Tyler’s own beloved festival that draws its own fanfare each year. Thousands of tourists visit the Rose City each year during the time of the Texas Rose Festival and its highly-anticipated events. Theme after theme, year after year and festival after festival, Texas Rose Festival lovers wonder how the next could be better than the last – as the days of festivities are always awe-inspiring and stunning displays of what Tyler represents. The community spirit that comes alive during these mainstay events is something that always has the city and its residents looking forward to the next festival.

So, what will the 92nd theme be? Only time will tell, but all will be looking forward to that special reveal in January 2025.

LES HASSELL/STAFF PHOTO

YEAR-ROUND ROSE FESTIVAL CELEBRATIONS

PHOTOS BY LES HASSELL AND JENNIFER SCOTT/TYLER MORNING

TELEGRAPH

Most may consider the Texas Rose Festival an October event, but those who are involved know it is a year-long event. From volunteer efforts to city engagements to luncheons and kickoff parties, the mainstay Tyler event is celebrated all year long. The year officially kicks off each January at the Winter Gala benefit, where the festival’s theme is dramatically revealed. The Rose Queen and her court participate in engagements throughout the year, including charity work and in more official capacities, such as when Queen Frances “Franny” Olivia Faulconer helped Visit Tyler cut the ribbon at the annual Azalea & Spring Flower Trail in the spring. The summer is for parties, practices, dances and fun galore. In October, all the favorite festivities come alive with the Coronation, Rose Show, Rose Parade and more.

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PHOTO BY JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY