Keeping the momentum going, February was an action packed month. The ever faithful UNC-P family welcomed me with open arms. The Locklear Family has certainly kept me housed and entertained this year. They are so kind and giving. I must also tell you, it was such a delight to emcee the Miss UNC-Pembroke Pageant with a favorite Miss North Carolina, Lorna McNeil. She is such an outstanding role model for all of us.
Lorna will always be very special to me because she was the very first Miss North Carolina that I ever met. I remember how I felt as a first time Carolina Princess when I saw Miss North Carolina! She was, and, still is so beautiful. Honestly, I could not believe that I actually got to meet her. Then she sang, and I was just in awe of her. After meeting Lorna, what little girl wouldn’t dream of being Miss North Carolina!?!
From pageants to schools, it is all about promoting our youth to become the best that they can be. This is where a program at West Smithfield Elementary has stepped up to honor this concept. This elementary school hosts a “book night” that is filled with various people reading books to students. It was an honor to be asked to share in this event and read to the students. This program also encourages elementary students to spend time reading with their families. Keep up the good work!
The following night, I returned to the Charlotte area where I participated in the “March Forth With Hope” Campaign. This is an annual event held in Charlotte to raise money for children fighting cancer. March Forth With Hope was founded by Stuart and Shelby Stout in memory of their beautiful daughter, Hope.
Next, I was off to the ARC of Wake County Ball. Adrienne Core and I were so blessed to meet many new friends at this wonderful event. We enjoyed talking to the guests and hearing their stories.
My dad offered to drive me to Gray’s Creek High School and I certainly took him up on that plan. It was a great father/daughter day. We had plenty of time to share lots of news, ideas, meals, and of course lots of laughs. After judging the pageant it was time for the return trip. My dad let me sleep all the way home---he’s a great dad!
Tuesday night it was my mom’s turn. We travelled to Burlington, where we were joined by Kay Dickinson and Amanda Roberts. We all were entertained by the awesome Jeanne Swanner Robertson as she graciously donated all proceeds from this event to the Haiti Relief Fund. This former Miss North Carolina is an amazing speaker. She kept all of us on the edge of our seats the entire night. Please, if you EVER have an opportunity to hear her speak, please, please go. It will be an evening you will treasure forever. She is truly an outstanding lady and a true asset to the Miss North Carolina Program.
Thursday, I spoke at Selwyn Elementary School in Charlotte. This was the cutest idea ever! They were focusing on “Good Citizens,” AND they actually held a pageant! Different students assumed the titles of Miss Respect, Miss Perseverance, Miss Honesty, and the list of contestants continued. Each addressing the responsibilities that came with their particular title, students campaigned as to why they were Good Citizens. They were all so precious. I was asked to “wrap up” the pageant by speaking about Citizenship. This was a neat experience because this whole concept was created by one of my former college roommates, Katie Radcliff, who is now a much loved teacher at Selwyn. It was such a joy to share this time with Katie and the students at Selwyn Elementary.
Speaking of special times, I was honored to be asked to attend the Grand Opening of MHR Designs in Fayetteville. This store “sparkles” from the ceiling to the floor! Marie is one creative lady and her new shop certainly shows off her skills. Take some time and go visit her. You will be glad you did. Trust me, it is a beautiful place to be.
Reflecting on all the events in this month, I am once again reminded of just how blessed I truly am to have the honor of representing this wonderful state. North Carolinians are special people, and with the passing of each month, I am just overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity that continues to embrace me this year. Thank you, North Carolinians, for always being so kind.

A heartfelt thank you to all,
Katherine Southard
Miss North Carolina 2009