Miles of Gratitude: My Miss North Carolina Journey with Knox Auto Sales
“I learned Knox Auto Sales always goes above and beyond.“
– Sophia Kellstrom, Miss North Carolina 2025, on shopping at Knox Auto Sales
There are moments in life that feel like something out of a dream, and for me, one of those moments began right outside the High Point Theatre during the week of Miss North Carolina. Parked just outside the doors all week long was the most stunning blue Lincoln Nautilus, and it quickly became one of the most talked-about stars of the competition. Contestants, volunteers, and supporters alike stopped to admire it, take photos, and dream about who would be the lucky young woman to drive that beautiful SUV for the year ahead.
That Lincoln was more than just a vehicle. It represented a year of adventure, service, and unforgettable memories waiting to be made. All week long, we posed with it for pictures and filmed fun videos, each of us secretly hoping our Miss North Carolina journey would include the keys to that gorgeous car.
When finals night arrived, I never could have imagined what was about to happen. Standing on stage, hearing my name called, and then being presented with the keys to that beautiful blue Lincoln by Jeff and his grandson Maverick from Knox Auto Sales was a truly unforgettable moment. It was not just the excitement of winning; it was the beginning of everything that would follow. That moment will forever be one of my favorite memories.
Just one week later, I walked into Knox Auto Sales in Dunn, finalized the paperwork, and made it official. I learned Knox Auto Sales always goes above and beyond as I was also gifted a custom brass Miss America ticket keychain. Driving away in Sapphy, my beautiful, blue Lincoln Nautilus with my Miss America ticket felt surreal. It was a core memory in every sense of the word. I remember gripping the steering wheel, smiling from ear to ear, knowing this vehicle would carry me all across North Carolina as I served the people of this incredible state.
Every mile I have driven since has been filled with gratitude. From school visits to food pantry stops, from community events to long stretches of highway, Sapphy has been my constant companion, made possible by the generosity and support of Knox Auto Sales.
