Miss America ’62 and Former Miss North Carolinas read ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas…

A Timeless Tradition: Reflecting on the Miss North Carolina 2020 Virtual Christmas Spectacular!

Ho-ho-ho! As we deck the halls this Christmas 2023, let’s take a nostalgic sleigh ride back to 2020, when the Miss North Carolina Organization (MNCO) brought the magic of the holidays right into our homes with a virtual Christmas talent show. The show was announced in an article published in the North State Journal. Airing for one night only, this family-friendly event was presented by Cherokee, North Carolina. Amidst a season like no other, MNCO found a way to kindle the holiday spirit with a special feature segment – a charming reading of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas by an ensemble of radiant former Miss North Carolinas, including one distinguished Miss North Carolina who held the Miss America title!

Unwrapping ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas

Before we jingle all the way into the video, let’s unwrap the history of the poem that has nestled itself into Christmas culture. ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, originally known as “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” was penned by Clement Clarke Moore in 1823. This beloved poem is credited with defining the modern image of Santa Claus and his merry sleigh ride, delivering joy to children worldwide.

Crowning Achievements: Miss America and Miss North Carolina

The Miss America Organization, established in 1921, has grown from a beauty pageant into a national movement empowering young women through scholarships and opportunities to advocate for social issues. Closer to home, Miss North Carolina has been a part of this illustrious tradition since 1937, showcasing the talent, intelligence, and compassion of women from our state. Each year, MNCO not only provides a platform for achievement but also contributes to personal and professional growth for countless young women.

The 2020 Virtual Christmas Spectacular Starring:

The 2020 Christmas show was a heartwarming success, featuring several former Miss North Carolinas who lit up the screen with their reading of the Christmas classic. Below is a placeholder for the names, timestamps, and title years of these remarkable women:

  • Maria Beale Fletcher – Miss America 1962 & Miss North Carolina 1961
  • Constance Dorn Rist – Miss North Carolina 1972
  • Laura Mattrazzo – Miss North Carolina 2018
  • Elizabeth Horton Peress – Miss North Carolina 2006
  • Deneen Graham Kerns – Miss North Carolina 1983
  • Kirstin Elrod – Miss North Carolina 2004
  • Katherine Southard Thompson – Miss North Carolina 2009
  • Kate Peacock Smith – Miss North Carolina 2015
  • Debbie Shook Lacey – Miss North Carolina 1978
  • Jessica Jacobs Marquardt – Miss North Carolina 2007
  • Jeanne Swanner Robertson – Miss North Carolina 1963

Visit the Sisterhood of Miss North Carolina

Rekindle the Magic with Your Loved Ones

Now, grab a hot chocolate, snuggle up with your loved ones, and click here to relive this enchanting segment. Remember to subscribe to the Channel for more great content. As you listen to the verses of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, reminisce about the past holidays and share your memories of these inspiring Miss North Carolinas in the comments section.

Your Crown Awaits!

Feeling inspired by these elegant ambassadors of grace and advocacy? Your journey to the crown starts in your local community! Visit Miss North Carolina Local Competitions to find out how you can step into this empowering experience. Whether for scholarship, service, or personal growth, the Miss North Carolina Scholarship Organization is ready to support you on a journey filled with purpose and poise.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from all of us at MNCO! Let’s keep spreading the holiday cheer and uplift each other with stories of inspiration and hope. Here’s to another year of making merry memories! 🌟

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