WASHINGTON – The Maine State Society of Washington, D.C., seeks candidates for Maine’s Cherry Blossom princess to represent the state and the society in the 58th annual national Cherry Blossom Festival from March 27 through April 2, 2005.

Neither a beauty pageant nor talent competition, the festival is an opportunity for a young woman to represent Maine and the society at the largest, best known, non-governmental, civic and social event in the nation’s capital which attracts national and international interest and participation.

Candidates must be at least 19 and not have reached their 25th birthday at the time of the festival; be a Maine native or be the daughter, granddaughter, sister or niece of a Maine native, or have other longtime, significant Maine connections; be at least a high school graduate and knowledgeable about Maine; have never been married; and be available for the entire festival week.

Information and applications may be obtained from the Maine State Society of Washington, D.C., 3434 Upside Court, Falls Church, Va. 22042-4019 (703-237-1031). Completed applications must be received no later than Dec. 15.