Lakefair queen 2008: Kimberly Forgaard

Olympia, meet your new Capital Lakefair queen.

She's Kimberly Forgaard, 17, and she was crowned Thursday night as the sun began to set on another day of the city's signature festival.

"Our court is amazing, and I love you all," she said. "Thank you."

Forgaard attends Capital High School in Olympia and is the daughter of Linda and Rick Forgaard. She was chosen from a royal court that also features Ashley Andrews of Tumwater High School, Kelsey Rice and Barbara Soiza of Black Hills High, and Kimberly Vivian of Timberline High.

Per festival tradition, the queen's name was revealed in a novel way — on the side of the nearby flying-saucer-shaped carnival ride called "Starship." Previous names have been revealed by a skydiver dropping out of the sky or a scuba diver emerging from Capitol Lake.

Forgaard said she plans to study business at the University of Washington or the University of British Columbia. She talked about what she had learned as a Lakefair princess, having given 17 speeches in that role.

"I've learned a lot of people skills," she said.

Choosing a queen

Five judges, while keeping their identity secret, attend community events and meetings at which the Lakefair Court members participate or speak. These events make up 50 percent of the final score. The final phase of judging is a panel interview the morning of coronation. The scores are totaled and the participant receiving the most points is determined to be queen.

The judges cannot be family friends of any of the candidates, members of the Capitalarians, or employees of any of the participating school districts.

Members of the Lakefair court receive a $1,500 scholarship. The queen receives an additional $1,500.

Matt Batcheldor covers the city of Olympia for The Olympian. He can be reached at 360-704-6869 or mbatcheldor@theolympian.com.