March 27 (Afternoon), 2010: Rising Stars Celebration and Fashion Show

Models, designers, seamstresses and intellectuals. And did I mention under the age of 16?! These ambitious girls took part in the Rising Stars Mentorship program. In this program, they learned the necessary skills to develop into strong, classy young women, focused on their goals and not afraid to say NO to negative situations. I was blown away when I saw each young woman glide across the runway and then I learned that the pieces they were modeling were designed, sketched and sewn by each model! Some of the girls were even awarded scholarships to the MOORE Institute of Design--talk about off to a great start! (Maybe they can design my pageant gown...hmmmm...) As a keynote speaker, I was excited to see emphasis on EDUCATION and PERSONAL ACCOUNTABILITY with students of such an early point in their lives. We must start instilling confidence in our girls from infancy and I was encouraged to witness the overwhelming amount of support these young women received from the mothers, fathers, grandmothers and extended friends and family.

It may take more than my year of service to "Restore the vision for our communities" and it truly takes a village to raise a child, but we can do it! It starts with one young woman, one person with a vision, one mentor, the commitment of one day a week, the faith of one mustard seed.... Let the restoration begin!


In His service...

March 27, 2010 (Morning/Afternoon): B.E.T Women's Health Symposium

I had the privilege of partnering with the B.E.T Foundation, the Association of Black Cardiologists and General Mills at the B.E.T. Annual Women's Health Symposium! This program encompassed every aspect of women's wellness, including physical fitness, beauty and hygiene, mental/emotional health, reproductive health, HIV/AIDS awareness and , of course, HEART HEALTH! As participants visited my station they were able to learn about the Miss Black USA organization, my platform during my year of service and the Heart Truth campaign. I distributed fact sheets, resource information and delicious recipe options to help kick start a healthier lifestyle!

As the symposium progressed I had the opportunity to visit some of the other stations to show my supprt for each presenter's contribution to improving women's health. Amid my "travels" I popped backstage to participate in the much anticipated fashion show. The models were gorgeous young women who I thoroughly enjoyed working with. I even had a chance to meet our fashion show Mistress of Ceremony, Bern Nadette Stanis (pictured above)--yes!- you guessed it, the multitalented actress who play the unforgettable "Thelma" on the sitcom Good Times! She was as pleasant and beautiful in person as I imagined!

Overall, I was extremely impressed with the organization of the Health Symposium and I was pleased to be able to educate so many women (and the men who love them) about the importance of recognizing risks and taking the proper steps to prevent Heart Disease. Heart health is of personal importance to me and I am pleased to be an ambassador for such a worthy cause!

In His service...

March 26, 2010: The Spirit of Heart Community Leaders Forum

The Association of Black Cardiologists (http://www.abcardio.org/), AstaZeneca and the B.E.T. Foundation hosted the 2010 Spirit of the Heart Community Leaders Forum to discuss the impact that Heart Disease has had on the African American community. Heart Disease is the predominate killer of Americans, with one in four women succumbing to the disease. As a spokesperson for the Heart Truth campaign I felt that it was important that I take part in this discussion, especially considering that African American and Latina women are disproportionately affected.

As I listened to the presentations and took a moment to peer around the room, I realized that I was in the presence of some of the most incredible and influential minorities in the country! These were African Americans who despite all odds, persevered to become superiors in their respective fields. The honorable Judge Mablean Ephriam (pictured above in pink) was even in attendance to offer her support and characteristic energy.To say that I was inspired would be an understatement! I literally got goosebumps listening to each of their experiences and admiring their humility. I am excited to know that I have partners in the healthcare industry to join our fight against Heart Disease!!

* The Heart Truth is a registered trademark of the HHS.

In His service...

March 26, 2010: It Takes a Team!

I want to thank the entire staff at the FedEx/Kinkos in Wynnefield for their patience and superior customer service-- You have generated a life-long customer! A special thanks to Mr. Howard for putting up with my perfectionism :-)

Go Team Kinkos!

In His service...

March 20, 2010: Where Style Meets Status Haitian Relief Fundraiser

Our ModestE, a chic women's clothing and accessory boutique presented this charity style auction and reception in conjunction with We Need Peace and Love and Philadelphia Status. The event featured a high end fashion show with the hottest new designers, live music and incredible food, all arranged by S and B Event Concepts. Proceeds generated from the auction were donated directly to the Samuel Dalembert Foundation for Haitian Relief. Mr. Dalembert was on hand for the event and I thoroughly enjoyed our long conversation about my Haiti experiences and life in general! I look forward to nurturing our relationship with the Dalembert Foundation and my continued prayers are with the families affected by the devastating earthquake.

Also in attendance at the Black Tie event was the always dapper, celebrity Chef Smiley and the lovely ladies of the Totally Posh Boutique (all pictured above)!

A special "Thank you" to my support team for the evening (pictured above)--I could not have done it without you!

In His service...

March 19, 2010: The Association for the Advancement and Integration of Design Fundraiser

The stunning Ms. Monique Curry served as hostess for this spectacular inaugural event! AAID is an organization that seeks to progress the education of our youth through creative writing and artistry. In promoting these ideals, Ms. Curry joins me in my mission to restore the vision for our communities through education and social responsibility. Creative thinking forces one to examine the world around them and allows the opportunity to contribute to the society through the expression of gifts and talents. I encourage each of you to support arts education and support young professionals like Ms. Curry. For additional info on our efforts, please visit: www.missblackpennsylvania.org and www.aid-creative.org !

In His service...

March 5, 2010 (Evening): Student National Medical Association Awards Banquet

And the award goes to... The Student National Medical Association is a student-run organization that addresses the needs of and provides support to medical students of color. On this particular evening I was nominated and awarded the delegation of Biomedical Sciences Student of the Year! This is extremely important to me because this is an award that is voted on by my peers and demonstrates their belief that I was a significant contribution to our organization. My SNMA family has been continually supportive of my title as Miss Black Pennsylvania USA and I hope to represent them well across our State! I love you guys :-) **tear**

P.S. Please note how gorgeous all of these ladies are--and they are intelligent and personable--who knew! I must also note that the dinner served was scrumptous! All the way down to the warm apple cobbler a la mode for dessert :-)

In His service...

March 5, 2010 (Afternoon): Women of Moxie Luncheon and Seminar

This was the perfect way to end an incredible celebration of Moxie Women! Attendees were treated to motivational dialogue from some of the most influential women in Philadelphia including: Councilwman Blondell Reynolds Brown, radio personality Dyana Williams, PECO Executive Mellanie Lassiter, President of American Cities Foundation Sandra Dungee-Glenn and President/CEO of United Way Southestern Pa, Jill Michal. Luncheon attendees also had an opportunity to support the Love Yourself campaign, a campaign started by Radio Personality MoShay LaRen that is dedicated to healing and rescuing victims of domestic violence. This initiative was supported by poetry from incredible young people, some of whom had direct experience with abuse, and a musical performance by artist Claudette Ortiz (pictured above) formally of the singing trio "City High". Being a part of this event, especially during Women's History Month, reminded me of just how integral women are in the progression of society. Let's support and encourage the young women in our lives--the future of our Nation depends upon it!

In His service...

March 5, 2010 (Morning): Samuel Gompers Celebration of Black History Month and Women History Month

Energetic, curious, bold and did I mention energetic?! The students at Samuel Gompers Elementary School are by far one of my favorite groups of students! During this particular visit I joined the students and faculty at the Black History Month Closing Ceremony (previously scheduled assemblies had to be rescheduled due to snow). There was singing, poetry reading, and trivia as the students discussed all of the contributions African Americans have made in world history. The students sang Lift Every Voice soooo robustly, it could be heard all the way down the hall and out onto the side walk! I was so proud :-) When it was my opportunity to speak, I discussed additional African American women who have made remarkable contributions to humanity to celebrate both Black History and Women's History month. I shared my personal story of difficulties growing up and encouraged the students to always strive for excellence!! I learn so much each time I talk with the students -- they are invigorating and remind me of the importance of supporting our next generation of leaders!

In His service....