Zelle Brown named Azalea Festival Princess

The 2009 Azalea Festival has its princess. Zelle Brown was crowned Saturday night at UNCW’s Kenan Auditorium. The Cape Fear Academy student competed against 16 other girls for the title. What were the judges looking for? “A well-rounded young woman who is active in her school. She can think well on her feet and she can be a really good spokesperson for the NC Azalea Festival,” said Amy Queen, co-director of the pageant. The girls were judged on an interview, and evening gown competition, as well as their goals and achievements. WWAY’s own Chris Phillips emceed the event. In addition to being named princess, Brown will receive a scholarship to go toward college. The North Carolina Azalea Festival runs April 1-5.