Dear State Executive Directors:
As you have undoubtedly heard, the New York Times biased article on Monday has been picked up by CNN and Good Morning America. Both media outlets chose to portray the story in a completely one-sided and unfair manner. In spite of lengthy interviews with our office, the South Carolina office and now with Maryland, the media's coverage of this story has been decidedly negative and unfair. We are reviewing every course of action against those that are intentionally slandering our programs. These interviews are being reviewed for possible legal action.
This story does not define the Miss America Organization. It is unfortunate that for all the good work and positive stories there are to tell about us on a local, state and national level, the media has chosen to focus on an unfairly biased and negative depiction instead. We will move on and continue to promote Miss America's ideals of scholarship that will make it stronger than ever.
We pledge our ongoing commitment and dedicated support to all of you on every local and state level. We remain indebted to you for all of your work and your volunteer efforts on behalf of the Miss America Organization. Please remember that this story will die soon, but it is our legacy that continues to build with your help and that with all of our efforts, we will continue to flourish in spite of negative individuals who try hurt our program and reputation.
With a united front, we can move forward and look ahead to our future.
Sincerely,
Sam Haskell
Chairman, Board of Directors
Art McMaster
President and CEO
