If there was a lesson learned this year, it is this: With a lot of perseverance and a lot of faith, you CAN achieve your dreams! I have cherished every I have spent as Mrs. New Jersey America and I am so grateful for all of the opportunities the title has given me.

 In August, I had the privilege of representing our state at the Mrs. America Pageant in Palm Springs, California. For two weeks, I was treated like a queen, and had the chance to get to know some of the most beautiful and talented women in the country, many of whom are now cherished friends. During the year, I was able to travel throughout our great state while promoting the importance of community service and encouraging young people to believe in their dreams.

 My dream could not have been possible without the tremendous help of so many wonderful people. First and foremost, to my NEW directors, Geralyn and Chuck Watson…Geri, you were once my competitor, now my director, and forever my friend. I am so grateful for all you have done for me this past year. I am so excited that at last, the women of New Jersey will have the kind of pageant they deserve. You have put your heart and soul into this and I know I speak for everyone when I say “Thank You”.

 To my husband Bill, there is no way I could have ever done this without your unending amount of patience and support. Thank you so much for everything, especially your much needed ego boost and fashion advice. You are so wonderful, and I Love You!!!

 To Willie, Louis, Henry and Charles, you are my biggest fans and always make me feel like a queen. Thank you so much for being such wonderful little boys. You have given my life such meaning and I am so very, very blessed.

 To Louie, the program book page you designed for me was absolutely stunning. Thank you for all your hard work and late nights spent on the project. I was so happy to have you there in Palm Springs to cheer me on. It gave me such a boost to see you and Brian in the crowd! I love you both!

 To Richard Krauss, without a doubt, the best pageant photographer in the business! I never thought I could look so beautiful! Thank you to you and Fran for all of your help at the last minute.

 To Beth O'Driscoll, thank you for all your kindness and support. I am always grateful to see your smiling face!

 To all my girls in Kennedy Mills, I had so much fun at our Mrs. America TV viewing party. Thank you so much for all your encouragement and support, especially before I left for nationals. You are the best friends I could ask for.

 And saving the best for last, I would like to thank my mother, Marcia Elders. The amazing examples you have set have helped me grow to be a strong woman. When I called and asked if you could fly to the east coast and baby sit four boys for two weeks, you didn't even flinch! You have always given me constant support in everything I have set out to do. You and Grammie have always been such an inspiration!

 At the national pageant, I was asked the question, “Why do you want to be Mrs. America?” And the answer was easy. Because I truly believe in everything the title represents. When you have a strong woman as the backbone of her family, you strengthen the family, you strengthen the children, and you strengthen the community. It has been an honor to represent the married women of New Jersey .

 To all of the contestants, I hope the time you have spent preparing for today has helped you learn a little more about yourselves, and helped you grow. You are the cornerstones upon which your families are built. Cherish and be proud of the roles you play. And to my successor, make the most of every day you are given as Mrs. New Jersey America. Perhaps 'you' can use the crown to make a difference in someone's life!

All my love,
Christy Elders Tighe
Mrs. New Jersey America 2004