Nine of Gilroy's best and brightest will gather to showcase their charm, composure and wit while demonstrating their love for the aromatic bulb in a competition for the throne and numerous scholarships, said Alannah Radtke, co-chair of the Garlic Queen committee. Not just a pretty face, the winner will represent her town when traveling to Gilroy's garlicky sister city - Takko-Machi, Japan - and at the Gilroy Garlic Festival. Her court will also attend the festival as ambassadors of Gilroy.

The collection of young women hail from Gilroy High School, Gavilan College and other colleges around the state. To qualify, the contestants must be between the ages of 18 and 24, be single and have no children.

A panel of five judges, comprised of various community members, will appraise the girls based on a one-on-one interview before the pageant, a public speech, their talent and their response to an on-stage question while wearing their evening gown. The talents will range from song and dance to Shakespearean drama, Radtke said.

2007 Garlic Queen Cherise Gowan will hand off her crown to the girl that garners the most points. That lucky lady will receive a $1,000 scholarship from the Garlic Festival Association. Runners up will receive scholarships of $500 and $250. The contestants also have a shot at various others: the Founding Fathers, Past Presidents, Rotary and Past Queen scholarships.

Contestants this year include Carissa Heath ­- GHS, Alyx Martinez - Gavilan, Jessica Brewka - University of San Francisco, Anneliese Zelina - GHS, Toni Eves - West Valley Junior College, Evelyn Rocha - Bryman College, Ariele Combs - graduate of the University of Arizona, Alissa Eves ­- Gavilan and Alejandra Delatorre - Gavilan.

Garlic Queen Pageant

What: 30th Annual Garlic Queen Pageant.

When: 2 to 4 p.m., Sunday, May 18.

Where: Gavilan College Theater, 5055 Santa Teresa Boulevard.

Cost: $10

Details: 842-1625