TALLAHASSEE, FL (WTXL) -- If you plan on coming downtown to celebrate Springtime Tallahassee, you'll probably spot some special young men and women out and about.
The Belles & Gents program has been a tradition in the Capital City for more than 30 years. The group of high schoolers, who are second and third generation Springtime members, are the hosts and hostesses for the festivities.
They've been hard at work for weeks, getting their float ready for the parade. It's a labor of love -- one they're quite familiar with.
"My sister first did it, because she's a lot older than me," said Elizabeth Ellison, Miss Congeniality 2016. "It's really just a tradition in my family to join Springtime and be in Belles and Gents."
Organizers say the group has been active in the community leading up to Springtime.
"We've built a ramp with our rotary group and Ability First," said organizer Terri Jackson. "They participated in Literacy Week through Leon County Schools, so they're just really engaged."
"I feel like Tallahassee has gotten bigger," said 2016 Mr. Springtime Reef Taylor. "I've started to see different parts of it -- parts I've never even thought were out there before."
The Belles & Gents are meant to be role models -- well-versed in the city's history.
"They all see you. They see the parades. They know who you are," Ellison said. "You always have to be on your best behavior."
"I feel like that I can be a good influence in the community," said 2016 Miss Springtime Haley Jahn, "and that's really important to me."
Each member must spend time decorating the float, working with civic organizations and being a part of the Jubilee. But for some, it's the parade they like the most.
"I love seeing the little children, because they always run up to you and call you 'princess,'" Ellison said.
"They look up to you like you're Cinderella and Prince Charming from the movies," Taylor said. "It's a great feeling."
Taylor says the group could use a few more gentlemen. Right now, there are only two -- including himself. He encourages any high school boys who are eligible and interested to apply next year.
