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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Crowning Moment For Lilac Queen University High Senior Plans To Major In Business

Janice Podsada Staff writer

The sun went down Saturday night and Spokane’s lilac bloomed.

Brianne Adams, 18, was chosen Lilac Festival Queen at Shadle Park High School. Adams is a student at University High School.

Eleven other contestants from area high schools congratulated Adams, whose knees shook as she sat on the throne, clutching a bouquet of roses, a purple velvet cape draped over her shoulders.

“I think I would cry,” she said, “but I’m too much in shock right now,” she told the audience that filled the Shadle auditorium.

Adams, a cheerleader, maintains a 3.7 grade point average, is a member of the National Honor Society and is a community volunteer.

During the summer, Adams is a swim instructor and lifeguard at Chester Hills Park, where she has pulled more than one toddler out of the pool to safety.

During her prepared speech, Adams praised her family’s love of the outdoors.

“Almost every weekend in the summer our family goes camping and enjoys the outdoors.”

After graduating from University High, Adams plans to use the $3,000 scholarship money to attend Washington State University. She plans to major in business.

Erin Moore of Mead won the scholastic award. Malia Holst of West Valley won the Photogenic award and Tara Jorgenson of East Valley won the Congeniality Award. Each of the awards comes with a $200 scholarship.

After his daughter was named Lilac Queen, Steve Adams was misty-eyed in describing her coronation.

“I’m totally surprised. You’re always a little partial to your daughter,” he said. “She did a wonderful job. She’s a very strong speaker.”

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