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Senator Robert Stewart and Representative Chris Sells hosted the Greenville Camellia Society’s Camellia Queen Karya Likely and Debutantes Emilee Myrick, Anya Cobb and Rakiya Peterson at the State House Tuesday, May 6. The visit made for an exciting day for the young ladies who represent the society.  

“They were recognized in the House of Representatives by Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter and [also] recognized by Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth in the Senate, ” said GCS representative Jan Newton. “They were photographed with the state officials including the senate president pro tempore Garlan Gudger. They were also awarded commendations by Governor Kay Ivey’s Office.”  

Likely said, ”Our visit to the State Capitol was an amazing experience!  I’m grateful for every memory and opportunity we have been allowed since being a part of the Greenville Camellia Society. It has been fun being Camellia Queen and representing Butler County in this capacity.”  

Paula Sexton, the  Camellia Queen project chair said, “These girls have already represented the Greenville Camellia Society and Greenville very well.  As they were introduced in both houses of the legislature, they showed poise and appreciation for this opportunity. The young ladies have proven to be great ambassadors for our GCS and dedicated to our mission of community wellness. I am proud of these girls, and proud of the Greenville Camellia Society.”

Newton expressed her pride in the queen and debutants and gratitude for the legislators who hosted their appearance at the Capitol.

“The Greenville Camellia Society is so appreciative for the time Representative Sells and Senator Stewart gave these young ladies,” Newton said. “They were exposed to how and where the Alabama government takes place. They interacted with many state officials. It was a day full of first-time experiences for them.”