Mrs. America 2007

Marney's Farewell Letter published in the 2007 Mrs. America program book,

"Sometimes rewards for hard work come at unexpected times. Sometimes you are offered another path to an unbelievable journey. Sometimes, you are blessed with a second chance to fulfill a dream.

When I received the call in March from Mr. David Marmel, congratulating me on assuming the role of Mrs. America, I knew this was my second chance to live my dream. I want to thank David and Elaine, and the entire Mrs. America organization, for this rare and special opportunity. I have spent the past five months making the very most of my time as Mrs. America, and have been inspired by those amazing women who came before me, as well as the remarkable people I have met along the way.

My journey has taken me across this great nation, and has been filled with so many memorable experiences.  I have been proud to represent this country and crown to the women, men and children of America.  I have been inspired by the thousands of children singing the national anthem at the Washington Monument as part of the National Anthem Project.  I have been moved by breast cancer survivors and their supporters at a Susan G. Komen Rally for the Cure in Lincoln, Nebraska.   I have been awed, humbled, and overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support I have experienced at every appearance, speech and presentation I have made. 

I have been fortunate to have shared this second chance with the friends and family that supported me along the path to becoming Mrs. America. This was never my opportunity alone, but rather a collective experience of many.  The creative talents of Raeanne Duca, DJ McDermott, and Megan Anderson were generously provided so that I could look my very best.  My husband, Scott, has been my greatest supporter and friend, working nonstop behind the scenes so that I could travel and uphold the honor of this crown.  My cherished friends, Tricia Dampier and Jennifer Bradley, were a continued source of strength and encouragement.  And to the most influential woman in my life – my mother, Lynda – I made it here because of you.

My crowning moment did not occur on this stage last September, but rather in hundreds of moments over the past five months.  I worked tirelessly to make the most of my second chance, and am blessed to forever hold the crown for 2007.  I thank you for my unique journey, and an unforgettable time as Mrs. America."