What made you want to go out for the pageant?
D- When you grow up in Plant City, you learn that Strawberry Queen is more than just a title. Being Strawberry Queen and part of the Court means you represent the festival, and the purpose of the festival is to unite the community and create unity and build the family of Plant City beyond just its boundaries. Becoming a part of something so special, something that constantly accepts new people and is so family-oriented, became such a priority to me. It became a dream of mine to be a part of.
What was your first thought when your name was called?
D- I’m not going to lie, I don’t think I have processed it yet. It feels like I’m still going through the motions and it hasn’t hit us yet. Sometimes I’ll be in the car driving on my way home, and all of the sudden it just all hits me at once and I get this overwhelming feeling of joy. Not happiness, but pure joy. It’s like a permanent state. It’s still hitting me right now.
What was your family’s reaction?
D- The only way I knew my parents’ true reaction was because Mr. Paul Davis and Mr. Tim (Lovett) came up to me and were talking about how they saw my dad bawling his eyes out. I’m so sorry I’m saying this in an interview — so sorry, Dad — but apparently he had to go to the bathroom and they were all making fun of him. They were so happy. My dad is so proud of me, constantly telling me every day how proud he is.
Do you have a piece of advice for someone going out next year?
D- I want to back up what Meghan said and also use the word “authentic.” I was just talking about this earlier, but when you’re authentic and being your true self, when you’re not trying to give the fluff answers that everyone else wants to hear, that’s what makes you a snowflake. And what I mean by that is every single snowflake is unique. There’s not one that is similar to the other, none are exactly the same and there’s beauty and something special to be found in all of them.
If you could pick one word to sum up your personality, what would it be?
D- I would have to say “personable.” I take pride in being able to empathize and be compassionate toward others and find that compassion in other people. I have a passion for and I truly love people, and I find it very important to be able to relate to everybody on some type of level, even if you come from different backgrounds and walks of life. Find that one connection you can share. I want people, even those who haven’t known me for very long, to feel comfortable around me and know they can open up if they want to.
What is your favorite place to spend an afternoon in Plant City?
D- I’m a geek, such a geek. I love learning. So it has to be the Railroad Museum. I moved here about 10 years ago, so when I went there — first of all, the committee that takes care of the Railroad Museum does an amazing job of keeping it clean and having something for everyone to do and enjoy — but when I was there, I learned so much about Plant City. I think it helped ground me and welcomed me to the town. I really love learning, so it’s my favorite place. Oh and 32 Below Thai Ice Cream. I go there all the time. Like almost every day.
Do you have a secret talent?
D- I play the alto saxophone.
What are you most excited for at the festival?
D- I feel like most of us are on the same page. Meghan being our Queen and us being on her court, we are so excited to meet people. This is the opportunity of a lifetime and when we were little girls we remember what it was like to meet the Queen. We remember what it was like to see her court members. I remember Baylee Astin on the court and when I think about the fact that that’s going to be us and we will have the opportunity to show that we are here to love and serve our community, that’s what I’m most looking forward to.
What band are you most looking forward to?
D- Mine definitely has to be Rascal Flatts and I’ve called them every single time that question is asked. Growing up listening to songs like “Bless the Broken Road” and “What Hurts the Most,”it gave me faith through difficult times. I was also lucky enough to see them at the Strawberry Festival when I was younger. I’m so excited on his last tour that I have the honor of not only watching them in concert, but also getting to meet people who helped me persevere through such rough times.
What festival food are you most excited to eat?
D- I actually buy the container with like 12 strawberries and the little bucket of chocolate beside it.