april 2020 20
WBM
Madison’s essay is quite remarkable in that she has never
been to the Azalea Festival yet was able to recount the
Festival’s story through research and interviews with past
festivalgoers. She plays on her school’s volleyball team and
was recently selected to be a Governor’s Page. She is an
officer in her local Future Farmers of America chapter
and plans to major in agricultural engineering when she
graduates high school.
ESSAY WINNER
Madison Aloia
JONES SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL,
TRENTON, NC • 10TH GRADE
AZALEA HERITAGE
In a historic downtown, flowers of many shades
fill the streets. Flowers ranging from white to the
most eye-catching pink nature could possibly make.
A sense of pride and ancestry fill the air to all who
call this place home while it excites those visiting.
The beauty of the town, handmade by those
who adore it, fills the streets and busy sidewalks.
Little children with wonder-filled eyes look up
with admiration to the floats that they flock to see.
Little girls stare in awe in hopes of being an Azalea
Belle when they grow up.
In a diverse state, filled with long kept tra-ditions
and an alluring geography, everyone
able gathers to watch and celebrate. A unified
community admires a beautiful symbol as well
as carrying out traditions put in place by genera-tions
past. This is a festival dedicated to keeping
Southern hospitality and community honor alive
for future generations.
The sweet and calming smell of petite, pink
flowers fill the air whilst the sense of hope fills
each individual’s heart. The historic charm allures
those not native and the heritage unites locals.
This is a time-honored tradition meant to keep
a historic town alive as well as celebrate past
achievements.
This is the Azalea Festival.
COURTESY N ALLISON POTTER C AZALEA FESTIVAL COURTESY NC AZALEA FESTIVAL