Eda Sandik represented Turkey in Azalea Festival, Virginia
The Turkish Times - Ms. Eda Sandik, a 19-year-old freshman in Maryland University, major in Psychology, this year represented Turkey as the Azalea Turkish Princess held April 26, 2003 in Norfolk, Virginia. Festival participants were also pleased to see the 36th Azalea Queen Mrs. Oya Soley Turkman among them, who traveled from Turkey as an invitee of Azalea Festival Committee.

Turkish Princess attended the Azalea Parade in a convertible car, which was followed by Turkish Float. Turkish float is completely being redecorated this year. "The Precious Gem", Mr.Recep Akdogan has sponsored the float and McDonald Garden Centre provided the live Azalea flowers.

This year a team of volunteers from Turkish community has built and decorated the float. The team was led by Mrs. Pam Pierzcak, including the other members of Pierzcak family, Nevins, John and Errol.

This year, Washington D.C. Turkish Folklore Dance Troupe, led by Mrs. Demet Cabbar, performed during the Parade and the NATO Fest. They participate in the festival as volunteers to show the Norfolk community the best samples of the world-famous Turkish Folk Dance.

In the festival, Turkey was be represented by a magnificent stand designed by Mrs. Sanem Orgen displaying unique Turkish arts. Throngs of visitors were served Turkish Delight, desserts, and souvenirs.