Miss Black Ohio USA 2010

Vote for our 2011 Miss Jefferson County's Outstanding Teen!

2011-05-19T06:10:00.000-07:00

Ladies and gentlemen...please vote for the beautiful Tasha Caprice for KY's Choice! It's only $1 per vote!!!! Vote today!!!!
https://www.paypal.com/us/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_flow&SESSION=IG0dVo7DTbPfWgwJ99O1VSpf9SpZh6Kjr54xDiiM0Skgh0xh5_QNrPkpitO&dispatch=50a222a57771920b6a3d7b606239e4d529b525e0b7e69bf0224adecfb0124e9b61f737ba21b0819838956b846fa597911f234fb937456ea7

Miss Jefferson County Scholarship Pageant

2010-12-28T19:52:00.000-08:00

Hello again everyone! I wanted to add a little post to let you all know what else has been going on! I'm in the process of planning my first pageant! yes....finally on the other side of the pageant world and directing!!!! My pageant is the Miss Jefferson County Scholarship Pageant and will be held April 2, 2011 at the Performing Arts Center at Kentucky Country Day school in Louisville, KY. The website is www.missjeffersoncounty.org we are currently seeking contestants for the Miss and Teen divisions as well as sponsors for the scholarship fund! If you are interested, please contact me at missjcorg@yahoo.com
I will keep you all posted!!!
Love
Ash

December 18, 2010

2010-12-28T19:47:00.000-08:00

On December 18, 2010, one of my greatest dreams was realized and I became a member of the ILLUSTRIOUS sisterhood of DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY, INC.!!!! I'm so blessed to have this opportunity and to serve my community with the best sorority in the WORLD!!!!! I don't have a Lot of words right now because I'm still so humbled and honored so I will just say this...Oooo-ooop!!!
19-LAC-Fall 2010

How can I complain??

2010-10-13T18:16:00.000-07:00

So ladies and gents...I'm sure that you have noticed that I haven't blogged much in the last couple months!!! Well I do apologize but I've definitely had a rough couple months! But please understand I'm not writing this for pity...there is a point and a message! Lol
So yesterday...I had a car accident and my car is out of commission for God knows how long. I felt like it was the straw that broke the camels back! Could anything else go wrong?? Was starting to feel a ot like Job and was getting more than frustrated with my situation! In my moment of weakness, when all the scriptures I tried to read to reassure myself that God would keep his promises were falling somewhat short, my little brother Keith asked me on a date!
He drives me to McDonald's where against my trainers knowledge(LOL) I have a LARGE fries and a caramel sundae!!! YUMMY!!! But comfort food was cheering me slightly and the gesture of my brother spending his hard earned money to treat me!
As we ate, the Tv in McDonalds (and yes I was shocked that McDonald's have flat screens) was showing a breaking news story about the miners in Chili and the rescue mission to save them starting soon. As I sat and watched, my mouth hung open and not from hunger. God slapped me real hard across the back of the head!!! He said girl, here you are complaining about fatigue, finances, injuries, work and cars and these men have been trapped underground for 68 days!!! SHUT UP!!!!
Ok maybe it wasn't just like that but I finally got it! This life and my life more importantly is not about me! Its about the uplift of His kingdom! And although my life isn't perfect and all things are not in alignment, I still must praise Him!
So, this may seem super random as my first blog "back" but I'm on the elliptical in the gym right now watching the footage of the miners and can't help but praise God! I have to say that my mind set has changed and I write this to challenge you to look at life outside of your bubble! Realize that no matter how bad it may look, it could always be worse, but most of all that God keeps his promises and will never forsake us.....
Today, I booked my first commercial in idk how long and a fashion show for Dillard's!!!! Ha! Go figure that when I stop worrying about poor little me and look UPWARD, HE works!!!
Praising God today!
And thanking Him that things are as well as they are!
Love,
Ash
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Finally the rest of my national experience

2010-08-22T14:01:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I think where I left off, we were leaving the Prayer breakfast and were heading somewhere on a bus...we were actually heading to Octacorp for a commercial shoot! The owner was incredible and was very flexible with us...we each had the opportunity to take a photo and then on camera say "Welcome to Octacorp...where NOTHING looks better" This was fun! I guess I did a pretty good job because myself and a few other girls were able to do a second part! I can't recall right now what my line was but I got it down after a couple tries LOL! I can't wait to see the finished product! Fun times! After the shoot, we went back to the hotel for the Miss Black USA Talented Teen Pageant where my princess, Aunjanna Million placed as 2nd Runner Up!! congrats boo, you were incredible and very very beautiful! So proud of you! After the pageant, more rehearsals and finally to bed to get ready for our big day. Monday morning we had breakfast and then went to the headquarters of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. As the national pageant's platform, we had the opptortunity to tour the facility and see all of the great work that is done to retrieve our nations missing children. I was amazed at how well they do the age progression from childhood to adulthood and how much the photos actually look like the person! This was a very good experience and very interesting.
Once it was over, we went to Lincoln Theatre for lunch and rehearsal, and God bless Dawn for the SOUL FOOD meal she provided for lunch! It was GREAT! After lunch we had rehearsal and got ready for finals. All sorts of emotion and excitement that night as I prayed for God to have his way. At the end of the night, I placed as 4th runner up and was able to hold my head high, as I know I competed beautiful and honorably for the Lord. Press conference after and the last night with my roomie Lori...sad face! I had a great time meeting and bonding wiht all of the incredible women during the course of the week and I'm blessed to have made acquaintance with such awesome sister queens. I will never forget them and can't wait til our first reunion...big things in store for and from this group of delegates...keep your eyes peeled and remember our names!!!
Peace and Love,
ash

Pageant Week Update!

2010-08-08T08:31:00.000-07:00

Hello bloggers!!!! Sooooo sorry I haven't kept up the past couple days! Let's see....thursday not too long after we returned from the yacht luncheon there was a horrible storm that knocked the power out the hotel! So from about 4pm til about 1pm there was NO POWER....which means no food being cooked, no cell phones charging, no air conditioning!!!! Ahhhh! LOL! And yes we still had a 3 hour long opening number rehearsal using the flood lights and an ipod! LOL! Finally, after showering with a glow stick I got in bed and woke up to power around 2am!
Friday was interview day....a little nerve wrecking but exciting at the same time! I felt like it went very well so I was sooo ready to get on stage in prelims Saturday! The rest of Friday was lots of rehearsals....yesterday was PRELIM DAY!!! At noon, we competed in fitness and evening gown at Pose Lounge! The setup was very high fashion runway and of course with the fabulous Stacy McKenzie sitting front row, we HAD to work it!!! I had soooo much fun and was even more excited to have lunch with my family afterwards and also with the beautiful Miss Djuan Trent, Miss Kentucky 2010!!! After lunch, we headed over to Suitland High School to rehearse and prepare for prelim talent and on stage question! I felt VERY good about this competition and nailed my talent without dying!!! Lol! My on stage question was something along the lines of "what qualities do you think parents should teach your children?" Considering that I have wonderful parents, this was an easy one for me!!! I was so excited to have the support of my family and friends in the audience and was SO GLAD to finally get to see my Chrissy because I've missed him so much the past few days with this limited communication!!!
So....I guess that leads us to this mornings prayer breakfast which was incredible! We had yummy food and then received a blessing of a performance by gospel sensation Ashley Cooke. After that, there was an amazing and inspirational message from God that was a great start to the day! As I type this I'm on the bus heading somewhere...not sure where but I will blog about it later! Lol
I have more pics to post and will surely do it hopefully later today! Peace and love and lots of blessings!!!
Love,
Ash
Also...BIG shout out and love to my teen Aunjanna Million!!!! Good luck tonight sweetie!!!! Love you!
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Thursday at Miss Black USA!

2010-08-05T13:17:00.001-07:00

This morning, we had breakfast at 8am, which was pretty yummy! Then had an hour to get ready for our first runway rehearsal with THE Stacy McKenzie! We spent about 2 hours with her...walking and hearing her teach us how to be FIERCE!!! It was pretty fun and always great to learn from someone that's an expert!!! After rehearsal, we went down to the harbor and took a ride on the Pelican...this was so far the MOST RELAXING thing ever! We went out on the Potomac and was able to see a lot of the arbor area and some of D.C while the wind blew in our hair and we did a little dancing when our jams were played. I had a great time and have had a great time since I've been here! Just got back to my room and my feet HURT!!! Going to relax a bit until it's time for the next rehearsal!!! Until later....
Love,
Ash

Congressional Red Tie Event!

2010-08-04T21:10:00.000-07:00

This evening, after a very busy day, we travelled to "The W" Hotel for the Congressional Red Tie event! All of the delegates dressed in red dresses for the event and we had a great time! We got to meet and mingle with several mayors, congress persons, TV and radio personalities and more. The hotel was fabulous and all I will say is we took a TON of pictures!!! LOL!! I've never seen so many photographers with huge cameras trying to take photos...not even in China for Top Model of the World!! I guess it's like Mrs. Karen (Arrington) said...we are next generation of First Ladies...and the media LOVES us! So impressed with the caliber of young ladies at this competition, the pursuit of education and the amount of achievements that are in the same room with me is incredible! It's awesome to share this experience with such beautiful and intelligent African American women!
I'm exhausted as I write this so hopefully I can blog again tomorrow! Another busy day scheduled....breakfast at 8am so I'm about to catch some zzzzzzz's
Love,
ash

Rehearsal and Some GRUB!!!!

2010-08-04T20:49:00.000-07:00

After orientation, we had 15 minutes to run upstairs, change clothes and be back down for rehearsal! Talk about a quick turnaround!! LOL! Rehearsal this time was for the opening number which I could NOT believe was to my FAVORITE Micheal Jackson song...PYT!!!!! I'm very excited and I LOVE the choreography! I was exHAUSTED during the last hour of rehearsal, but found a way to push through it! It was fun and another way to get to know some of the other girls in a light and relaxed setting. I'm anxious to learn the rest of the dance and YES I will be gettin my groove on from the front row!! YAY!!!
After the rehearsal, we got to go up the suite for a bite to eat prior to getting dressed for the Red Tie Affair! Food was yummy...great social time..but also left us with about 40 minutes to get "revamped for our evening appearance!! Fun times!!

Orientation/Check In at Miss Black USA

2010-08-04T20:34:00.000-07:00

After a crazy night of travel (flat tire on the side of the highway at 2am), I finally made it to DC for the MISS BLACK USA Pageant!!! Our first order of business was registration and then orientation! It was awesome to finally get to meet all of the girls and to also connect people's actual faces with their facebook pictures and bbm screen names! The highlight of my afternoon was definitely reuniting with my long lost sister Ebonee...Miss Black Alabama USA!! So awesome to finally see her again and it definitely put my heart at ease after the crazy night I'd had! A special thanks to my Chrissy and to Darius...THE ROAD WARRIORS that got me here safely and allowed me to try to get some rest while they tackled the road!!!
Here and ready to go!!
Love,
Ash

My Spa Day..Evening...whatever..IT FELT GOOD!!!

2010-08-02T19:41:00.000-07:00

After work today...I went over to Strandz for a little R&R before the pageant! It's definitely been a stressful and busy couple of weeks so this was very much needed. I entered LaLa land around 4:30pm and by 7:45 when I walked out after a massage, sugar scrub, mani and pedi, I was on cloud 100!!! I felt a release and rejuvenation that I definitely needed heading into pageant week and I'm sooooo excited and ready to go! I feel like I've been saying that for the past couple of blogs but I REALLY MEAN IT!!!! I'm excited EXcited EXCITED!!!! I'd also like to at this time say a special thank you to my mom for holding me together these past couple weeks when I felt like I was falling apart! Thank you for being there, for helping me follow my dreams and thank you for being the support I needed when all other doors were slamming in my face and slamming hard. Also special thanks to my Chrissy for being such a saint and tolerating my craziness! Feelings blessed and realizing that Satan attacks when you are doing positive things...that often when I stumble or feel obstacles in my way, it's because a blessing is heading down the pike!!! If you ask me I'M READDDDY!!! LOL
Peace and Blessings,
Ash

Sunday August 1-NAM Kentucky Pageant

2010-08-02T12:22:00.001-07:00

Today, "the gang" travelled to Lexington, KY to watch the National American Miss Kentucky pageant! From Princess to Junior Preteen we watched them all, and boy were there some beautiful young ladies competing!!! I'm sad that I'm not able to make it back this evening for the Finals of the Miss/Teen/Junior Teen crowning but can't wait to hear the news! There are two special ladies competing for actually the same title, Miss Erynn and Miss Malia and I wish them both the best of luck! I'd have to say that being in that setting again puts me in super pageant mode!!! Sooooooo excited about getting to the national pageant! Can't wait to hit the road tomorrow!! I wish that I could head out now and just sit outside the room for orientation until it starts! LOL!! Oh well...one more day! Excited about my spa day today and also extremely thankful for all your thoughts and prayers leading up to this week! Keep praying for me...want God to have his way! Keep voting for People's Choice by the way...I'm currently in 4th place and voting is over Sunday!!!
Love,
Ash

My Sendoff SHOW/ Party!!!! July 30th at Shooters!

2010-08-01T13:06:00.000-07:00

Tonight I had the BEST and most motivating send off party ever!!! Miss Brooklyn Steele Tate put together an incredible line up of queens to perform and raise money for STOP AIDS!!! When I originally had the idea of doing a Drag Show for my send off, I was thinking of the wonderful Court and all that they do for STOP AIDS so how fitting! And I couldn't have anyone but the fabulous Brooklyn to put it together. I made sure I had extra talent rehearsals so these ladies didn't show me up on my send off night LOL!!! It was an incredible show! Great crowd! And most importantly, we raised over $700 for STOP AIDS!!!!! I felt so energized leaving the party because I knew that this is why I'm competing! This is why I'm going to the national pageant, this is why I'm competing and this is why I need to bring home the national title! The people fighting the fight against HIV/AIDS need a voice! I'm willing and I'm ready!
Love,
Ash
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

July 26, 2010-STOP AIDS Annual Meeting

2010-07-26T22:54:00.000-07:00

This evening, I had the pleasure of attending the Annual Meeting for STOP AIDS at the Civic Garden Center in Avondale! Great food (much of which I couldn't eat...pageant diet) and community supporters staff from the agency gathered to celebrate the past year of STOP AIDS and the incredible agency that it is! I was very surprised (David) to find that I was being thanked by the agency and received the most AWESOME gift! It's funny how God places things in your life at the times that He does....the past couple days in preparation for my upcoming pageant have been very trying...I felt attacked and started to wonder why I felt so many stumbling blocks in my path this week and disappointments heading toward something that I felt so strongly was on my path from God. I have to say that heading into this day I was pretty down and pretty stressed. My day started great this morning as I received a phone call from Anthony Thomas Chocolate Company saying that they were donating my "state gift" for nationals! This was a blessing as I definitely needed to save some money heading into national pageant week...then I came to this event and was refreshed by being with this new addition to my family and feel the love and passion in the room. This was just what I needed and again it's crazy how God works. The simple fact of STOP AIDS thinking enough of me to say a formal thank you at their meeting reminded me of why I am here...of why I compete in the first place. It reminded me that whatever struggles I encounter or endure heading into the pageant, I must persevere because what I am representing is greater than myself and anything I may feel personally. I truly committed this year to the fight against HIV and that fight is not yet over. I must move forward, and I must say that I'm stronger and more focused about this title than I ever have been...hoping to next year return to this meeting with a greater accomplishment in spreading the word about HIV with a greater title. I LOVE the picture/memento I received and it too was just what I needed...a reminder of those that fought before me and a reminder of those that still need me to fight. I'm planning to stand on the stage as Ashley Miller, Miss Black Ohio USA 2010, but more so as an advocate for many that don't have a voice...a someone with a group of incredible people behind me...never alone but being lifted up with encouragement and faith all the time! So thankful for this evening and it really was exactly what I needed! Excited about my send off party Friday!!! I love STOP AIDS!!!

Congrats to Djuan Trent...Miss Kentucky 2010

2010-07-18T20:23:00.001-07:00

After my fabulous photo shoot, I went back to the Singletary Center for the finals of the Miss Kentucky Pageant. I was so excited to watch the top 10 compete and of course the crowning of the beautiful Djuan Trent, one of my close friends! I have to say that the emotion I felt at "that moment" was indescribable...both as a former contestant that competed for that same title and an African American woman from an area of the state where young African American women need a role model! It was so beautiful to see God work...to see His favor shown over Djuan as she competed and as the crown was placed on her head! I cried feeling both like a proud mom and at the same time like the crown was also placed on my head! I believe that in life, you overcome obstacles, you endure, you fail so that you can pass knowledge on in hopes that others succeed! I cried tears of joy for a sister to be representing an amazing state and title, for a sister to move on to share her talents to the nation at Miss America but to also see that crown grace the head of a woman of color after almost 10 years! I pray for strength and endurance for Djuan during this year of service and pray that God places many in her path to touch with her grace! I pray blessings and favor over her at Miss America in January (that I plan to attend..hehe) and one last thought....watch out America....HERE COMES MISS TRENT!!!
Love,
Ash

Photo Shoot- July 17, 2010

2010-07-18T20:16:00.000-07:00

Howdie!
Today, I got to have a little fun with a laid back, and of course a little different photo shoot with the lovely Cristy Elaine in Lexington, KY while I was hanging out waiting for the finals of the Miss Kentucky pageant. I had my hair and makeup done my the amazing Andrea Ahl of Louisville! I'd say that those who know me personally know that I'm a super laid back person, and this shoot was nothing different from that! My direction to them both was...let's have fun! I didn't care what my hair or makeup looked like; I wanted it to be different and I wanted to enjoy being back in front of the camera! The pics I've seen so far are lovely, and I'm very excited to see more!! Thanks a ton to Cristy and Andrea and I really look forward to working with you in the future!
Love,
Ash

Friday Night Prelims...Miss Kentucky Pageant

2010-07-16T21:51:00.001-07:00

Tonight, I got to make it to the second night of prelims for the Miss Kentucky pageant!!! It was truly a delight and the contestants were all incredible! It was definitely a different perspective to be on the other side of the stage and see all the ladies put all their hard work on display! Another congrats in order to the beautiful and talented Djuan Trent as she took home the Preliminary Swimsuit Award tonight! Djuan babe, you were awesome!
After the pageant and giving some love to my peeps, I headed to Georgetown College in Georgetown, KY where I am now working as a dorm monitor for the High Exposure Girls Basketball Camp! I will be up all night so if anyone is awake at this hour and reading this....HELP!!! LOL!
Excited about a photo shoot tomorrow, picking up my cocktail dress for opening number at Miss Black USA and seeing WHO is crowned the next Miss Kentucky! A blessed and beautiful day!
Love,
Ash

Miss Kentucky Week

2010-07-16T11:38:00.000-07:00

So I'm totally excited to spend my weekend in Lexington, Ky to watch the Miss Kentucky pageant! I have a pretty full weekend planned, between working out, watching prelims and finals, working out and a photoshoot, I'm not sure when I will sleep but I'm excited anyhow! I also wanted to send some love to my "boo" Miss Djuan Trent, Miss Berea Area for winning the Prelim Talent Award in last night's prelims! I wish I could have been there! Way to represent Miss Trent! And good luck to all the ladies this weekend! Photos and more to come!
Love,
Ash

Happy Independence Day!

2010-07-05T14:46:00.000-07:00

Today, I got to participate in my first parade of the year! I was able to march with the STOP AIDS clan in the 2010 Pride Parade through downtown Cincinnati! This event was a great opportunity to get the word out about AIDS Prevention and Awareness and I'd have to say we received an extremely warm welcome! During the parade, safe sex packets were distributed to the adults in the crowd and after, during the festival on Fountain Square, STOP AIDS provided free HIV testing, giving results in 20minutes! It was a great day! It was super hot I must add so I have to get props to all the performers in their costumes, singing and dancing on stage!! Lol! They were great! I really wanted to hang around to see Deborah Cox perform but I wasn't sure I'd make another 3 hours in that heat!!!
An awesome day, event, experience!!! And I must give a shout out to the Mistress of ceremonies Miss Brooklyn who was fabulous as usual!!
Have a blessed day and hope everyone was off work today!
Love,
Ash
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

2010 Miss Black USA People's Choice Award!

2010-07-02T06:26:00.000-07:00

Hello!!!!
As you all know, I'm entering my final stages of preparation for the Miss Black USA pageant! I went online today and saw that the contestant photos are online and guess what??? There's a "People's Choice Award!!!" The winner of this award will be announced at the 2010 Miss Black USA Finals on August 9!

Votes are $1.00 each and there is no limit on the maximum number of votes a contestant may receive or the number of votes you may cast. For example, 1 vote equals $1.00; 5 votes equals $5.00 and so forth. Voting ends at 11:59pm on July 28, 2010!!

http://missblackusa.org/delegates.php

Please go online and vote!!! And please forward this email to everyone you know that may be willing to at least spare a dollar!!!

Have a blessed day!!

Love,
Ash

Praying for my sisters in South Africa!

2010-07-01T20:00:00.000-07:00

Today, while reading some news, I came across something that I couldn't ignore! I read a story based in Durban, South Africa about a new female condom being used by women there...for my normal, "protect yourself" self, this is great news, but I read further...this was not just any female condom...its a new "anti-rape device" lined with hooks! I feel a couple different things reading this:
A- I'm happy that these women have an option to protect themselves and possibly something that may decrease the frequency of such atrocities, and
B- I'm saddened that the women in this country must go to such extraordinary measures in order to protect themselves in a country that has the highest rate of rape in the world.
I'm praying as I get in bed tonight that these women have a hedge of protection around them! I'm praying that my sisters in South Africa are less frequently victims of such horrible crimes. I'm praying that an invention such as this, as radical as it may be, will allow these women to live in peace and protect their temples! I'm praying...and asking for your prayers as well.
Goodnight...
Love,
Ash

The article found in "The Week magazine" is as follows:
Durban, South Africa
Female condom with teeth: South African women are trying out a new anti-rape device—a female condom lined with hooks. The Rape-aXe, which is inserted like a tampon, has rows of hooks, which attach to a man’s penis during penetration; he can’t get it off without a doctor’s help. “If he tries to remove it, it will clasp even tighter,” said the designer, Dr. Sonnet Ehlers. “However, it doesn’t break the skin, and there’s no danger of fluid exposure.” Ehlers is distributing thousands of the devices to South African women in cities hosting World Cup games. South Africa has the highest rate of rape in the world. A 2009 report by the nation’s Medical Research Council found that 28 percent of South African men surveyed had committed rape.

6 Weeks!

2010-06-23T14:08:00.001-07:00

So....today marks 6 weeks til I check in for the Miss Black USA Pageant!!!! I'm super excited to report that my official wardrobe is COMPLETE!!!! So now its time to focus more on fitness and getting the talent routine tight!!! In other words....its time to get my "Rocky" on!!! LOL! I can't believe its been almost a year since I won the Miss Black Ohio USA title and that chapter is about to come to a close! I'm excited about my last pageant (although I've been getting inquiries about when I will marry so I can do Mrs. Lol)!! Excited to rep the OH-IO to the best of my abilities!!! Game time guys!!!
Love,
Ash
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Muhammad Ali Center Visit-June 12, 2010

2010-06-21T16:52:00.000-07:00

Today, a good friend of mine (Adriana) and I visited the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, KY. I'm quite ashamed to say that this was my first visit although I was living in the city when the Center first opened!!! This visit was WAY more than I could have ever imagined, and that was made clear to me at as soon at we watched the video overview of his life! I knew of Cassius Clay and Muhammad Ali, "the boxer" with handsome looks and "big mouth" but I knew little about his intriguing words and poetry and his big heart! We wandered through the exhibits amazed at not only the superb athletic skills of Muhammad Ali but also his willingness to stand up for what he believed in, even if it cost him! I was enthralled reading all about his loss of the championship title for refusing to enlist in the armed forces. The more I read and learned, the more I grew to respect this icon! I was inspired by his quest to regain his title against the younger fighters, proving that you can truly do anything that you set your mind to. I was touched by all of the lives that this man has touched all over the world whether it was by financial blessings, physically visiting people, or just using his voice as a platform! I can truly say that I walked away with a new role model, and someone that I pray I'm blessed to meet during my time on this Earth! If I could grow into a woman that has even a quarter of the impact Muhammad Ali had in this life, I will consider my life a success!
God Bless Mr. Ali and I officially have a new meaning for " I am the greatest"
Love,
Ash

Congratulations to Laura Jones....Miss Kentucky's Outstanding Teen 2010!!!

2010-06-13T18:46:00.000-07:00

Last night, June 12th, I travelled with my besties to Somerset, Kentucky to watch the Miss Kentucky's Outstanding Teen Pageant. There were 21 fabulous teenagers competing this evening that were just as beautiful and intelligent as they were talented! I saw young ladies playing piano, the fiddle, singing, and dancing like you wouldn't believe. The production was awesome and it was a beautiful night, celebrating 21 beautiful young ladies. I had two very special ladies in this pageant...my darlings Erynn and Laura! I'm so proud to see these young ladies grow and develop into the outstanding young women that they are and I look forward to continuing to see them mature into beautiful women. They both completed beautifully, confidently...they competed like the winners that they are. At the end of the night, Miss Laura Jones praised God for the crown placed on her head! Laura, I'm very proud of you, and happy to see you represent the Commonwealth of Kentucky...knock their socks off at Nationals honey! I know you will!!!
Congrats!
Ash

Talent Rehearsal Time!!!

2010-06-10T21:14:00.000-07:00

Today I had my first "in studio" talent rehearsal and boy was it a good one! At the beginning it was hard to fathom being able to move fast enough to keep up with my music!!! After a while, I got my groove back! Its definitely a different feeling to practice at home versus practice in the studio! First of all you can see ALL your mistakes in a mirror unpleasantly glaring back at you! Lol! It was overall a really solid rehearsal and I'm super excited about my routine! As I lay here tonight, I'm reminded of muscles that I didn't realize could be sore!!! The beauty of African dance!!! Practice, practice, practice! If nothing else, I will be in GREAT shape after all this rehearsing!!! LOL!
Love,
Ash

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Throwback post...Cuts for the Cure

2010-06-04T19:20:00.000-07:00

Today, I treated myself to my monthly massage with the absolutely AMAZING Adriana Broadstone of Strandz salon! Afterward, I was invited to their Cuts for the Cure event!!! There was a great turnout! All kinds of people, men and women alike, shaving their heads and donating their hair!!! I was fortunate enough to meet the Mayor of New Albany, Indiana and have my picture taken with he and the infamous Coach Mo from the Biggest Loser!!! We had an incredible evening! Lots of good food and silent auction items!!! Fun times!!!
Ash
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Call to Action

2010-05-25T20:26:00.001-07:00

Today, I'm writing from a different place than usual...I'm writing almost in a state of panic and urgency that something has to happen NOW! Today, I delivered (for the first time in my career) a positive or reactive HIV test to an African American woman in her thirties. A woman with seven children to care for...a woman that loved a man that she felt safe with..a woman that now has an HIV diagnosis to add to her plate. When I saw the results on the tests...the two lines on the test apparatus, my heart stopped and I immediately felt a sickness in my stomach that I'd never felt before....this woman now will undergo blood testing to confirm the diagnosis....HIV...and I have to have the nerve to deliver the news!! Wow! I had to find myself in my office for a while before I could gather the courage to face her and discuss what to do next! No, he life isn't over! Yes, there are medications that can allow her to live a full and healthy life, but her life is forever different... This situation isn't common for the clinic in which I work but I must say it touched me in a very different way today...HIV is not a joke, its not a game!! Unprotected sex is not just a risk of contracting chlamydia or gonnorhea...you could be risking your life! Sharing needles isn't a convenience for your next high...you could be risking your life!! We have GOT to talk about this disease! We have GOT to encourage each other to stop being afraid and be responsible and get tested!! We have GOT to protect ourselves and educate each other about HIV!!! I don't want to have to look into another persons eyes and tell them they have a deadly virus that is preventable. I made up in my mind to go a little farther and try a little harder to get people tested and to open the conversation about HIV and end the stigma. I'm committed to stopping AIDS, please help me!!!
Seriously distraught,
Ash
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National Missing and Exploited Children Day

2010-05-25T07:53:00.000-07:00

Today, May 25th is National Missing and Exploited Childrens Day! As Miss Black Ohio USA 2010 and delegate for the 2010 Miss Black USA Pageant, we have partnered with the Nationals Center for Missing and Exploited Children to raise awareness about the Take 25 campaign. This campaign is designed to encourage families to take 25 minutes out of their day to go through a series of questions, etc with their children to ensure they safety, that photos are up to date, ID cards are made,etc! I'm very excited about this partnership and being able to make some appearances across the state of Ohio on behalf of this cause! I also wanted to take this opportunity to encourage everyone to visit the website, www.take25.org. (The link is in my side bar!) And make sure your little loves ones are safe!!!!
Have a blessed day!
Ash
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KYANNA Awards and Scholarship Banquet-May 15,2010

2010-05-16T09:08:00.000-07:00

Today, I was invited to the KYANNA Black Nurses Association of Louisville chapter Scholarship and Awards Reception! It was a great afternoon filled with some history about the Black Nurses Association, yummy refreshments and awesome silent auction items! I was honored to receive one of the Outstanding Nurse Awards in the category of Community Involvement and Advocacy! It felt so awesome to receive an award for just doing what I feel in my heart I'm supposed to do on this Earth! I also took home a couple of silent auction gifts....4 tickets to the Muhammed Ali Center and a beautiful painting of "Sisters." Overall a great day and inspirational to see other Black Nurses using a platform to reach our community and reaching back to bring other Black nurses through the ranks! So thankful for KYANNA and for Alanna Williams for nominating me for this award!
Have a Blessed Day,
Love,
Ash
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More Photos From Blake's Ribbons of Hope!

2010-05-09T09:01:00.000-07:00

Enjoy!!!
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5/8/10-Blake's Ribbons For Hope!

2010-05-09T08:47:00.000-07:00

Today, I was given the opportunity to attend one of the most amazing events of my year! Miss Blake Williams of Pickerington High School near Columbus, Ohio was presenting her senior project!! She had planned a fashion show featuring designs of her own collection and made it a fundraiser for the Columbus AIDS Task Force! I was invited to speak but had no idea that I would walk away as touched and inspired as I was! The event started with an intro by the Master of Ceremony, the charming Mr. James Ferguson. Then the Columbus AIDS Task Force had several speakers both giving statistics on HIV infection and people sharing their stories that were HIV positive. Then the show began! When watching the show, I felt like I was looking at professional designers work, as Blake had 3 full scenes of her own designs modeled by her fellow classmates! The clothes were amazing! And there were several outfits that I signaled to her I HAD to take home with me!!! I was soooo impressed to meet a young African America lady really pursuing her dreams and really making it happen! And more than anything to have the courage and sense of social responsibility to do this for a cause such as the Columbus AIDS Task Force!
I ended up speaking after the intermission and gave a challenge to the audience! I really wanted people to start talking about HIV because to me,that's the first way to begin eradication of this disease! Talk and get people aware! I used somewhat of a spin off from the movie "Pay It Forward" and encouraged everyone to call or text at least 3 people when they left the event and ask them if they had been tested and encourage them to do so! The event ended with the auction items right before the last scene and I'm very happy to say that I won a fabulous red earring and necklace set from Mrs. Michelle!!!! The last scene was the models in jeans and their Ribbons of Hope tees, a beautiful ending for a beautiful event!!! I'm so proud of Blake for the undertaking and completion of this event and I'm even more excited about working with her for some fabulous and unique outfits for Miss Black USA Pageant Week!
Love,
Ash
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May 1,2010-Official admission into PhD Program

2010-05-09T08:39:00.001-07:00

Today I received my official acceptance letter into the PhD program at the University of Louisville!!! I'm sooooo excited to begin this next/last phase of my scholastic career! The plan is to begin this fall, and although its somewhat overwhelming, I can't wait to get started and.....get it OVER!!!! A new journey!
Keep me in your prayers!
Love,
Ash
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April 24,2010-Dillard's Fashion Show

2010-04-24T12:07:00.000-07:00

Today, I was again selected to model in a Dillard's Fashion Show! Todays show took place in the actual Women's Dillard's store in Louisville, KY. It was an awesome and fun show and considering that next week is the Kentucky Derby, I got LOTS of fabulous outfit ideas!! Always fun to be on the runway and practice my modeling skills, especially with NATIONALS right around the corner!!! I also got to do a little shopping in the mall! Overall a great day and lots of fun, now time to hit the gym....
Love,
Ash
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More photos From Franciscan Haircuts From the Heart Event

2010-04-20T06:56:00.000-07:00

Enjoy!
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April 17,2010-Franciscan Haircuts From the Heart Fundraiser!

2010-04-19T07:01:00.000-07:00

This evening I was blessed with the opportunity to attend and MC the Franciscan Haircuts From the Heart Event, "A Hair Affair to Remember." The event took place at the Centennial Barn on the grounds of the St.Clare Convent, which is absolutely gorgeous! There was a silent auction, professional models sporting extravagant styles from Cincinnati's most sought after hair stylists! The event was truly about the vision of Sister Bonnie, who felt so strongly that there was a need for this type of ministry in the community. One that serves the poor and homeless with such a much needed service, professional hair care! The event was fantastic and truly a success! For more info on this great ministry, go to www.haircutsfromtheheart.org
Love,
Ash
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Introducing Designer Adeleke Sijuwade's Olori Collection

2010-04-15T17:02:00.000-07:00

Howdie Blog Fam!!!! Got access to some new photos and wanted to share!! These fab photos are from the Red Dress Photo Shoot that took place in Washington D.C. this past January! If you remember, it was when I got the opportunity to meet some of the other fabulous women that will be also be competing to become Miss Black USA this August! To see all the photos, join the Miss Black USA Pageant page on Facebook!!
God Bless!
Ash
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New Commercial is done!!!

2010-04-09T14:58:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone, check out the link to the Commercial for Franciscan Haircuts From the Heart that features yours truly!!!!!! Enjoy!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPxeR3pgejo
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March 26, 2010-Commercial Shoot for Franciscan Haircuts From the Heart!

2010-03-29T12:56:00.000-07:00

Today was a hectic but awesome day! Right after work, headed to a commercial shoot!! The commercial was for Franciscan Haircuts From the Heart, which is a local (Cincinnati) organization that provides professional haircare for the poor and homeless. The organization is soooo awesome!!! Their mission is "to enhance the self-esteem of the poor, homeless or disabled men, women and children by providing them with professional hair care." I'm so impressed, because I never knew such an organization existed! I was blessed with this opportunity because next month, I will be the MC for their fundraiser, "A Hair Affair to Remember!" It will take place Saturday, April 17, 2010 at 6pm at Centennial Barn on the Grounds of St. Clare Convent 60 Compton Road, in Cincinnati, Ohio! Funniest thing is that during the shooting, I kept wanting to say Haircuts For the Heart instead of FROM the heart...goodness Ashley lol! Oh yeah...I had my own bodyguard/escort! LOL!!!
Super excited about this event and will post more info about when and where the commercial will be airing ASAP! Go to www.haircutsfromtheheart.org for tickets or more info!
Love,
Ash

March 25, 2010-Runway for the Roses Fashion Show!

2010-03-26T10:10:00.000-07:00

This evening, I was given the opportunity to model in the annual Runway for the Roses Fashion in Louisville, KY. Runway for the Roses is a pre-Derby fashion show benefiting the Kosair Children's Hospital. Models were chosen by Jerry Talamantes of Dillards. Dillard's provided all of the fabulous clothes that we modeled, getting the crowd ready for the Derby festivities! There were so many great ideas for outfits that I literally could have spent every penny I have!!! Fun times and great to see some old friends and make some new ones!
Hopefully more photos to come!
Love,
Ashley

March 16, 2010-Photo Shoot for NEW HEADSHOTS!!!

2010-03-26T10:00:00.001-07:00

Today, I had the honor and pleasure of shooting new head shots for my pageant/modeling portfolio! I was privileged to work with THE Lesa Miller, makeup artist extraordinaire and the great photographer Ed Brown! I've really been needing new head shots with my "new look" so here they are! I was so excited to shoot with these two and am so thankful for the fabulous Miss Denise Mattingly for recommending them to me/me to them! LOL! It's definitely been a long time coming and sooooo worth it! I had a ton of fun shooting and even more fun looking at how beautiful they made me! Thanks so much to Lesa for "making me perfect" for the camera, and thanks to Ed for capturing some of my favorite head shots to date....must shoot again soon!
Love,
Ash

March 12, 2010-Opening Night for "A Tribute to Motown"

2010-03-17T08:41:00.000-07:00

Tonight, I was blessed with the opportunity to attend the opening night of the Cincinnati Black Theatre Company presents, "A Tribute to Motown!" Prior to the first viewing of the performance, was the CBTC Benefit Fundraiser where many were honored and thanked for their contribution to both the Motown sound and the success of this event! I was given the opportunity to say a few words during this fundraiser which was AWESOME impromptu onstage question practice lol! I really wanted to show my gratitude to the director, Mr. Don Sherman for giving me the opportunity to be there and also for beauty of having a Professional Black Theatre Company!
Then on to the "main course"!!!! The Show!!!! I'd have to say that I wasn't born during the Motown era, but I knew a lot of the songs performed and several of the groups by name! The show was full of life and energy and at several points had the audience laughing, nodding their heads and dancing in the isles!!! I would have to say my favorite of the night was the young man that played "Lil Stevie Wonder" and the young Michael Jackson!!! he definitely stole the show!! The show was so awesome, I wished that I could have went back on Saturday to see it again!!! Also, despite my extremely limited singing abilities, it made me want to get up on stage and participate...lol!
I can't wait to see the next production..."The Wiz"!!!
Great job to Mr. Don Sherman, and all the actors and actresses that participated!!! An overall AMAZING production!
Love,
Ashley

March 7, 2010-Reggie Williams Exhibit Closing-STOP AIDS Cincinnati

2010-03-08T12:09:00.001-08:00

Today, I was a guest at the closing ceremonies for the Reggie Williams Exhibit at STOP AIDS in Cincinnati. This was an incredible event! The room was over-flowing with spectators as the gallery entered it's closing day! The keynote speaker was the charismatic and committed Mr. Phill Wilson, Founder and CEO of the Black AIDS Institute. Mr. Wilson filled the room with both emotion and motivation as he delivered his message that we ARE greater than AIDS! I was so intrigued to hear his message, which further made me think about what else I could do to aid in the struggle against HIV! I was also privileged to meet Wolfgang, Reggie's partner, who gave me great encouragement to continue in the fight and spreading the message to stop AIDS!
There's so much I could say about who Reggie Williams was and what he did to spark interest in the fight against HIV, but I will simply direct you to the website honoring his work and memory www.reggiewilliams.net
I'm very excited to have participated in this event and hope that in my work against HIV/AIDS, I can touch even half of the lives that Reggie did!
This day also marked the beginning of the National Week of Prayer for HIV/AIDS, and I challenge each of you to take a moment each day this week to remember those suffering and the families impacted by HIV across our great nation and the world!
Love,
Ash

March 6, 2010-Miss Berea Pageant!

2010-03-08T12:00:00.000-08:00

This evening, I travelled to Berea, Kentucky to see the Miss Berea pageant, a local in the Miss Kentucky (Miss America) system. Considering that I completed my undergraduate studies at Berea College, it brought back a lot of memories...I only wish this pageant was around back then!!! The contestants were incredible and at the end of the night, I must say I was so happy to hear the announcement of my fav gals....Amelia Gandara as Miss Richmond Area, and the FABULOUS Djuan Trent as Miss Berea Area! I wish them both the best of luck at the Miss Kentucky Pageant in July and I will be there to root them on!!! So happy to have a BC alum representing Berea this year!!! It's awesome to watch a pageant and see what looks good, and what talents are entertaining, etc! Definitely a helper as I prepare for the national pageant....August 9, 2010...Washington, D.C!!

HIV/AIDS Prevention Article in the Feburary issue of GLBT News!!!

2010-03-08T11:55:00.000-08:00

For the month of February, I was able to write an article for the GLBT News magazine on HIV/AIDS Awareness! The text was as follows:
STOP AIDS!!!

HIV and AIDS are diseases that are currently plaguing over forty million people worldwide. In the United States alone, there are over forty thousand new HIV cases reported each year, and an estimated 1.1 million persons living with HIV. Although the exact number of persons living with HIV is virtually unknown, there are over seven thousand persons living in Ohio with AIDS. While these numbers are very striking, the most alarming thing about the HIV/AIDS epidemic, is that thousands more people are infected with the virus and do not know their status.

When it is a fact that young Americans ages 13-25 are contracting HIV at the rate of two per hour and more than half of all new HIV infections are in persons under the age 25; it is time that someone stands up and speaks out about this issue! As Miss Black Ohio USA 2010, and as the spokesperson for STOP AIDS of Cincinnati, I am committed to serving the community as an educator to raise awareness and hopefully as a voice to teach about the importance of knowing your status. I am also committed to serving the population of people already diagnosed with HIV/AIDS whom have tremendous healthcare needs.

Something to think about: Globally, a person contracts HIV every 6 1/2 seconds and every 10 seconds, a person dies from AIDS. For a disease that is preventable, it has taken entirely too many lives. Protect yourself and KNOW YOUR STATUS!!!! Please spread the word!!!
Sincerely,
Ashley Miller, BSN, MSN, WHNP-BC
Miss Black Ohio USA 2010

March 3, 2010- Miss University of Louisville Pageant

2010-03-05T10:55:00.000-08:00

Today, I had the opportunity to be the MC for one of my past and favorite titles...Miss University of Louisville! I held the title in 2008 and since my year of service, I have been blessed to be on the committee and MC the event! This year, I can a marvelous co-MC...the president of the Student Government Association...Mr. OJ Oleka!!! I had great fun both in the rehearsals and the actual pageant night! It definitely brought back a lot of wonderful memories, and I was so happy to see another sister crowned in the tradition of Miss University of Louisville. The winner tonight was Miss Melanie Brison, who I believe will be a fantastic representative both during her year as Miss U of L and at the Miss Kentucky pageant this summer! This years group of contestants were phenomenal, and I am so proud of all of them and also so excited that the pageant has grown so much! This year, the pageant was sold out with STANDING ROOM ONLY!!! I'm so excited to see what more this pageant will become! Photos of me with my co-host OJ Oleka, Miss Melanie Brison, the 2010 Miss U of L and also the Top 5 scorers! Congrats to everyone and also thank you to my dress sponsor Miss Anni from Bridal-N-Tux in Dayton, Ohio for the most fabulous dress ever!!!
Love,
Ash

Feb 19,20,21-Carl Casper Auto Show Pageants

2010-02-21T10:58:00.000-08:00

This weekend, I had the opportunity to work as the MC for the stage events at the Carl Casper's Custom Auto Show in Louisville, KY! I got to announce over 10 events which was exhausting, but great stage practice as I prepare for nationals! There was the Coca Cola Talent Preliminary, Miss Auto Show USA Preliminaries and Finals,Miss Jefferson County(one of my old titles!), Little Mister, Little Miss, Preteen, and Teen Jefferson County Pageants! I had a great time! Nearly lost my voice but all was well!!! I really enjoyed myself and am grateful for the opportunity!
A special thank you to my second mommy Miss Denise Mattingly for presenting me with this opportunity and a congrats to all of the contestants and winners!!!
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Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T09:20:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to take a moment and wish everyone a Happy Valentine's Day! Be encouraged to love yourself today as well as He who created you!! I wanted to share my morning scripture with those of you who don't already receive it from me!

‎"Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart"Psalm37:4
On this Valentines Day,help us to first extend our love and appreciation to you Lord, the lover of our soul and creator! Thank you for teaching us the true definition of love every day of our lives!

Happy Valentine's Day!
Xoxo
Ash
P.S. Another fab photo from the shoot last week with Hotaru Ichinose!! Wink!
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Feb 7, 2010-Photoshoot with Hotaru Ichinose

2010-02-10T08:36:00.000-08:00

Today, I got to do a super fun photo shoot with mi chica Hotaru Ichinose!!! I finally had gotten my official sash and was so excited to shoot with it. We also played around with a Cleopatra costume!!! I got some awesome pictures and will be posting more as they are sent to me!!!

Feb 6, 2010-Mother Daughter Tea, Louisville, KY

2010-02-10T08:22:00.000-08:00

Today, I was given the opportunity to attend a mother-daughter tea at the Olmsted Academy, an all girls public school in Louisville, KY to speak on behalf of the Heart Truth Campaign. The event was an awesome one, one I wish I could have attended with my mom when I was in middle school! There were sessions on etiquette, a lunch with tea of course and a fashion show in which the daughters go to hit the runway! Lastly, I got to give about a 10 minute on the Heart Truth Campaign and the issue of heart disease in women. I think the most surprising statistic was when I told them that 1:4 women will die of heart disease while only 1:30 women will die of breast cancer. It seems that most women perceive their major risk of illness is related to breast cancer instead of heart disease. I was able to give information about what heart disease is, risk factors, and ways to prevent it, which I felt was a great message for these mother-daughter combos! It was an overall a great event and I'm looking forward to working with the school in the future. I want to thanks Mrs. Ruth Totty-Mitchell for inviting and getting me involved with the Heart Truth Campaign in KY and I look forward to working with her in the future as well!
In my photos you will see one of a little girl with a crown pin on her beautiful red dress! She saw the pin on my sash and told me how beautiful it was so I asked her if she wanted it, and she shyly said no. I took it off my sash and put it on her dress and told her to wear it for the day and she's the princess of the day. She wore it proudly and her grandmother told me she really thought she was something with the pin on...at the end of the day, she came up to me to return the pin and I asked her again if she wanted to keep it...she again shyly said no, I can't keep it. I made her promise me that she would take good care of it, do good in school and do whatever her parents told her and she could keep it and be a princess everyday...she agreed and kept it...she was so excited, all she said to me was "COOL!!!!"
Such a doll!
Have a blessed day,
Love,
Ash

Feb 2, 2010- Cleveland Cavaliers!

2010-02-02T22:49:00.000-08:00

This evening, I was blessed to be a guest of the Cleveland Cavaliers for their Black Heritage Celebration! I had the opportunity to be introduced on the court during a time out and was also able to participate in the T-shirt toss! I definitely have to say I got suckered for all my t-shirts and didn't even get to save one for myself!!! LOL! After these events, I went back to my GREAT seats to enjoy my first ever NBA basketball game! And what a first experience! I had a BALL at the game! The staff, announcer, mascot (lol...who tried to sneak a smooch on the court!) fans, everyone was incredible! They definitely know how to make a lady/queen feel welcome! I definteily want to extend a thank you to Amanda Greco with the Cavs that had been working with me over the past couple of months to make this evening possible, thanks to Ahmaad, the Cavs' in-arena host for your great hospitality and I really hope I can join you all again one day soon! Oh wait...I didn't mention how great it was to see my two favorite ballers in action!!! Go SHAQ!!! Go LEBRON!!!! GO CAVS!!!
Great night....bed time!
Love,
Ash

January 29-NKY Pride Fundraiser-Cincinnati, OH

2010-02-01T09:25:00.000-08:00

Tonight was one of the most fun events I've had thus far! I got to somewhat co-host the 2010 NKY Pride Fundraiser Party....an 80's theme! I spent majority of the day debating on what to wear, and after extensive "interviews" with both my mother and father, I came up with my little costume..lol! I went for the Foxy Cleopatra look as you can clearly tell from the photos! I learned that I don't look half bad with an AFRO!!! haha!
The event itself was to raise monies for the Northern Kentucky Pride Event that will occur later this year in Covington, KY, which I am very excited to attend and speak about the importance of HIV/AIDS Awareness!
I met some fabulous people at this event as well! I have tons of pictures, but really wanted to point out the owner of Sweet Libertine Cosmetics, a natural mineral cosmetics company that will be designing all of my makeup colors for the national competition!!! So thankful to have met Sarah!....I also met a young man from the First Annual Cincinnati Fashion Week and it looks like I may be able to model in that...more news to come on that!!!
Overall it was a great event, I had so much fun raising money for a great cause! Special thanks to Ron Padgett for inviting me!!! Can't wait to work with you more this year! (He's the guy in the pics with the BIG hair!)
Love,
Ash...AKA...Foxy Cleopatra!!!

P.S..I won the award for best/biggest 80's hair!!! hahaha!

January 23-Underground Railroad Freedom Center-"Strange Fruit"

2010-02-01T07:15:00.000-08:00

Today, I appeared at the Underground Railroad Freedom Center to attend the screening of "Strange Fruit," a documentary about the song that brought light to the terrible crime of lynching." The documentary was very enlightening and gave tons of information about the antilynching movement. The song, written by Lewis Allen (who's real name was Able Meeropol, a Jewish-American), was inspired by a photograph of lynching. It was first, say by Billie Holiday and was even banned by radio stations for the content on which it appalled. The song itself has been remade by several artists, some singers experienced career issues for venturing to sing such controversial lyrics. This film was very educational and left me very inspired. I'd love to sample a part of the song in my talent routine for nationals...hmmm!!!
I again, encourage everyone to check out the Without Sanctuary Exhibit at the Underground Railroad Freedom Center! It's very powerful and for sure will change something about you.
Have a Blessed Day,
Ash

January 18, 2010-Without Sanctuary

2010-01-23T13:47:00.000-08:00

Today, as I travelled back to Cincinnati from our nation's capital and the Red Dress Photo shoot, I had a very important appearance to make. One so important and moving, it's taken me almost a week to find the words to blog about it. I was given the opportunity by the lovely Jaime Brandt to attend the VIP Exhibition Opening and Reception for the gallery entitled "Without Sanctuary" at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. The evening began with a warming reception with delicious finger foods and beverages and thereafter, the program began. We were greeted by CEO, Donald Murphy and received remarks from community supporters including BRIDGES for a Just Community, Urban League of Greater Cincinnati, Cincinnati Chapter of the NAACP, and WKRC-Channel 12. The keynote speaker for the evening, the Honorable Fanon A. Rucker, delivered an intriguing and inspiring speech that prepared the several hundred invitees for what we were about to see in the exhibit.
Lynching is something that in my mind was much of figment of my imagination. I was not living during this era and notice that it is rarely delved into in the schools that I attended...I knew that it was a reality, and I knew that this era existed, but what I was missing was the brutal and horrific reality of lynching...what it looked like, what people could randomly come across while seeking a peaceful walk in the woods or even a public place.
This exhibit was the most powerful thing I've ever witnessed, so much that it left me speechless, emotionally full and several times in tears. I walked through the exhibit without words, just in awe of what my eyes were bearing witness to. In my lifetime, I have not witnessed a seed of hatred that is manifested in such a way, and so openly in such large groups of people. What killed me was to see the groups of people, men, women and children standing around a hanging body, proud of what they had done. I couldn't help but think, on what planet did this occur?? Not on the one I live in today? How could people be so cruel? How was this accepted in society? How was this the norm? Even as I write this, I am still full of emotions, hurt, disgust and some times anger. I sit in prayer that God forgives those that participated in these murders and also in prayer that this is never, in any magnitude, allowed to occur again.
I learned that lynchings not only occurred in the south as most may think, they occurred in almost every state across this nation. The victims were many, of all walks of life, not all African-American, but between the years of 1882-1968, as many as 4000 African-Americans were slain. I could type about this for days, but the most important thing I learned is summed up in quote by W.E.B. Dubois, "We must remember, because if the world forgets evil, evil is reborn."
This exhibit runs from now until May 31, 2010...if you are in the Cincinnati area, please go see it...it will change your perspective on life...So thankful for this experience.
Still Somewhat Speechless,
Ash

January 16-18th- Miss Black USA Red Dress Photoshoot!

2010-01-18T07:35:00.001-08:00

This weekend, I travelled to D.C. for the National Red Dress Photo Shoot for the Miss Black USA Scholarship pageant! This shoot is dedicated to one of the pageant initiatives, the Heart Truth Campaign, that you will hearing a lot about from me in the upcoming month. Several of the other state delegates made the trip to our nations capital and I was paired with the fabulous Ebonee Benson, Miss Black Alabama, whom I have determined is my sister from another mother! So happy to have FINALLY, after months of blackberry messenger convos, met her in person! She's awesome and I can't wait to spend pageant week with her.
During the weekend, we had a meet and greet, followed but hours of talking...can't put a group of women together and expect anything less...lol
Sunday, we had an early breakfast, followed by a very informative workshop where we discussed different way to market ourselves leading up to nationals, making appearances, securing sponsorships, selling our ad pages and also talked about our two initiatives for the year! After the workshop was the Red Dress Photo Shoot where we got to shoot with celebrity photographer Beverly Johnson and be directed by the great Geoffrey Olisa. I was blessed to wear a red dress designed and made by Linda Love of Cincinnati and then modeled the Afro-centric fashions of Jean Marc! The shoot went great and I can't wait to see the photos! I promise I will post them as soon as I get them! Today, I'm heading back to Cincinnati where I will have an appearance at the Underground Railroad Freedom Center tonight...it's their invitation-only opening of their biggest exhibit of the year..."Without Sanctuary"...I can't wait to see all of the photography..I'll blog about it tomorrow hopefully!
Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day!!!
Celebrate the dream by keeping it alive...keep moving forward...keep making strides for the top!
Have a blessed day,
Ash

Sending Prayers To Haiti

2010-01-15T09:03:00.000-08:00

Devastated by the tragedy in Haiti and really at a loss for words to describe the type of loss and human suffering going on there right now. I pray that God shows mercy and allows aid to be provided and also that He consoles the hearts of those that have lost loved ones. If there's anything you can do to help, please make an effort...even if it's just a $5 donation by texting Yele to 501501...please do that. I am very happy to hear that the Miss Black USA Organization has taken the initiative to collect goods to provide to the Haitian people and I am asking that anyone who reads this blog either contact me to get items to take to DC with me tomorrow or get an address and donate what you can. I know times are hard and the economy is still recovering but our fellow beings are in need of help...and I'd pray that if a catastrophe happened in my backyard, someone would come to my aid...Prayers and more Prayers to the families touched but this disaster.
Ash

January 12, 2010-Sweet 16 to My Big/Little Brother

2010-01-15T08:55:00.000-08:00

So today....a very VERY VERY important person in my life celebrated his 16th birthday!!!!! YAY! And I'm totally going to embarass him by writing this but oh well...I guess that's what sisters do! My little (but taller now..ugh!) brother Keith is my motivation to succeed in life...I've always tried my best to be a good role model to him and to give him a smidgen of success within the family so that he may feel motivated to follow his dreams. He's really a lot of why I even compete in pageants to this day...I tell him to follo wmy dreams so in essence, I must follow mine. It's been amazing to watch him from a little baby that used to scream his head off and make peepee on me when I changed his diapers to a gorgeous young man that is a fine athlete and aspires to be an engineer one day! I'm so proud of my little brother if you can't tell, and in case you all wondered...NO HE CANNOT BEAT ME IN BASKETBALL YET!!! LOL
I pray that God blesses him with many successful years. That He keeps the little girls away from my so big sis doesn't end up in prison and always let him know that I'm just a call or text away.
Love you and Happy Birthday....
and I'm officially done driving when you have your permit...you have a lot of making up to do for all of my driving you all over the place mister!
Ash

January 9, 2010- STOP AIDS New Years Party

2010-01-10T11:51:00.000-08:00

Tonight, I was blessed with the opportunity to attend and perform at the New Year's Party held as a benefit for STOP AIDS at the Below Zero Lounge! It was a great turnout and thus fundraiser for the organization. Kudos to the fabulous Debi Daring for putting the even together and to Miss Brooklyn for extending the invite! It was indeed a great success. The performers were amazing!! I was so happy to see all the people that came out to support the cause...we are all fighting together to STOP AIDS!!! During the event, I was able to perform my talent for the national pageant. It was a great opportunity for me to get on stage again and I was so thankful for the response I recieved from the audience!
Most importantly, at the end of the night, I was approached by a man that expressed to me that he was HIV positive and had been for 20 plus years. He expressed to me how grateful he was for my support of the program and how much it meant to him that someone in my position is advocating for this cause...I couldn't help but grab and hug him as I was almost in tears...this is why I serve...this is what it's all about. And further confirmation that you touch and influence more people than you may ever know...make sure its in a positive way.
Still working to live up to my name...a great night all around!
STOP AIDS!!!
Ash

January 7, 2010-"The Diva Influence"

2010-01-07T10:03:00.000-08:00

It's COLD and SNOWING!!!!!!! Since it is most ideal today to be snuggled up in front of a fire place reading a great book (even though I'm at work...lol)... I wanted to discuss another section of the book, "Unveiling the Diva Mystique" by Michelle McKinney Hammond. I'm enjoying this book waaaaaaay too much!!!!
The section I want to discuss is entitled, "The Diva Influence." In this section, the author references the scripture John 4:1-42 which is (in short) about the woman at the well that Jesus comes in contact with that had been married 5 times and was essentially shunned in her town for her lifestyle with men. Despite her lifestyle,she essentially ended up being the means by which many people in her town came to know Jesus. The most interesting thing about this story is that even with the impacet that she made in her community, she remained nameless....
In life, often times it seems that we do good things for people, donate time and maybe even money to organizations or groups that are considered good causes, but why do we do it? Is it for fame, recognition or some type of noteriety? Or is it for the sake of simply changing a life?
A true diva to me, is someone who takes the time to touch those around her, and doesn't need to be recognized...it is the deed that you do, not your name that will often outlast your own lifespan.
The book sums this up the best in a confession stating. "I will begin to celebrate the fact that God has given me everything I need at salvation (2 Peter 1:3). The degree to which I experience this is up to me. Therefore, I choose to give what I desire to have and watch it increase as I become an open vessel of blessing to others."
I'd be eternally grateful to die nameless if my work on Earth touched or changed the lives of one person....it's almost a resolution of sorts to me...with my interactions with people each day, I want someone to be positively impacted by their encounter...they don't even have to know my name....
Nameless.....(the title of the photo)
Have a Blessed Day and Stay Warm,
Ash

January 1, 2010- Happy New Year!!!

2010-01-01T18:14:00.000-08:00

On the first day of the new decade, I'd like to discuss my first reading selection of the year. I decided to read a book entitled, "Unveiling the Diva Mystique" by Michelle McKinney Hammond, and in the first chapter, "What's in a Name," I discovered some things that really made me think.
The book discusses what a name means and how often your name or title supercedes you in the flesh or even creates opinions about the type of person you or your family are or may become in the future. This of course, led me to do a little research on my name...Ashley- means from an ash tree...in the Bible, the ash tree was used as a fuel source in many cases and was often used to make carvings. Interesting..... My middle name...Danielle....in the Biblal sense means "God is my judge." So as I looked back and forth at the two names that I was given, I feel like I've begun to see my purpose...a purpose that my life has already begun to fulfill....ash tree...God is my judge...fuel source....this is what I came up with and I'm more than happy to hear opinions....

My life on this earth, as Ashley Danielle Miller was meant to impact people from my work, school, family, pageant and modeling endeavors, everywhere I go, including the young girls in impoverished areas from which I come, seeking a positive role model...My life, my triumphs and defeats, my tribulations and my story of success was meant to be a fuel source to all that may cross my path or bear witness to my steps along the way...in essence, I am carving new pictures of what the future can and will be for Women of Color across this great nation....lastly, many may not like or agree with my steps or tactics,my willingness to bear my soul to those I may be able to touch or help, but as my middle name is translated...God is my judge....
What's in a name??? So, so, so much...
My goal for this year is to truly live up to the name that I carry.
Happy New Year and God Bless,
Ashley Danielle
Miss Black Ohio USA 2010

December 19-Madison Ave Bridal/Linda Love's Showroom Opening

2009-12-21T09:10:00.000-08:00

Today was such an amazing day! I felt so blessed that it's realy hard to put into words how I feel!

A little background history...I met the AMAZING Ron Padgett at the Design in the Sky event a couple weeks ago, he's THE event planner...so I met with he and a friend of his Anni, the owner of Madison Ave Bridal, and to my surprise, I walked out of there with the most amazing dress for nationals! I can't really give too many details because I think its my secret weapon LOL!

I'm really excited about doing some modeling for Anni this year and so thankful for the gown and the amazing help I recieved during my time there.....God is good is all I can say!

Next I went to the showroom opening for Mrs. Linda Love and Linda's Love Fashions....Mrs. Linda is the amazing designer of the fab red dress I wore at the Design in the Sky event a couple weeks ago. I was very happy to be able to participate in this event and got some great news that I will be a featured model in her next fashion show at the Underground Railroad Freedom Center this fall! Linda does great work and has a style that is very unique and classy. I'm very excited to have the opportunity to wear and display her designs this year and I am very thankful that I met her.

Today was great, I feel so extremely blessed to have this title and for God to continue placing all of these amazing people in my life...it definitely lets me know I'm following the right path...Miss Black USA....here we come!!!!

Appearance Work Week!

2009-12-15T17:58:00.000-08:00

This week, I'm committing a lot of time to booking appearances for the upcoming months. I will be doing appearances with STOP AIDS in Cincinnati of course but have contacted The Underground Railroad Freedom Center and also Gov.Ted Strickland's office. I'm definitely open for suggestions and appearance requests so please share away! I'm still working on the Cleveland Cavs!!!! Shaq is my favorite player in the game so I REALLY hope to hear from them soon!
Stay tuned!!!!

December 5-Design in the Sky II

2009-12-08T16:31:00.000-08:00

This evening I was blessed with the opportunity to attend another fundraiser for Stop AIDS in Cincinnati! The event was called Design in the Sky II and took place at the beautiful American Building in dowtown Cincinnati! It was held on one of the top floors with a beautiful view of the dowtown area. Besides the beauty of the location and the attire of those attending, the main puporse of this event was to raise money for STOP AIDS to continue in their mission of providing comprehensive HIV/AIDS services to the area. There was a live auction as well as a silent auction for the most amazing artwork I've ever seen, and I can't no mention the great food!!! I felt like I found myself walking around the event mingling with people but also with the different trays scattered around the suite!!! I'm not even going to discuss the chocolate covered brownies.....

Ok Ok...they were awesome! Beseides that...I got to wear the most amazing gown (red to match the decor of the event) designed by Linda Love of Cinicinnati and I really had a hard time giving it back to her after the event! I met a lot of great people at this event, including the reigning Miss Ohio USA Amanda Tempel, and I was so thankful that they were all there to support the tremendous cause of STOP AIDS!!!

Let's continue trying to STOP AIDS!

An amazing appearance and event!

Ash

Dec 1-World AIDS Day

2009-12-01T17:30:00.000-08:00

Today, December 1st, the day before my birthday is World AIDS Day! Today I don't have pictures or anything to post but I just wanted to use this blog as a means to encourage everyone to get tested for HIV and to know your status! This disease is primarily preventable and has already taken too many lives. I hear a lot from my patients that they are afraid of the stigma of having HIV and therefore won't get tested but that's truly no excuse!!! Please, please, please...if you do nothing else this week, find out your status, not only for you but for those you love!
Have a great day!
Love,
Ash

Berea College Black Student Union Pageant-November 13

2009-11-25T07:42:00.000-08:00

Today, I was invited to judge and speak at the Berea College Black Student Union Pageant! I was really excited about this opportunity because this event is very dear to my heart! I am a Berea College alumni and actually competed in this event when I was a sophomore! It was great to actually be on the other side of things at a pageant and I definitely learned a lot about stage presence and exuding confidence on stage! The girls and guys that competed were AWESOME!!! And I definitely felt like the most deserving contestants were crowned King, Queen, Prince and Princess at the end of the night! During intermission, I got to speak about my platform, since the platform for the pageant was HIV/AIDS Awareness! I really hoped to convey the importance of getting tested and knowing your status! It was an amazing night and I especially want to thank my favorite chica, Miss Djuan Trent for getting me involved and Mr. Jonathon Johnson for making the event a huge success! Thanks so much guys, love you much!

October 2-Focus Learning Academy, Columbus, Ohio

2009-10-08T08:08:00.000-07:00

Today I had to opportunity to speak at the Focus Learning Academy in Columbus, Ohio. I spoke to a group of students that ranged in age from 16 to 22. I began my talk by finding out what all the students knew about pageants, we discussed what all goes into the preparation and stage show! I spent the majority of my time with them talking to them about my platform, HIV/AIDS awareness! I talked with them about what HIV/AIDS stands for, how it can be contracted, how to prevent it, and the importance of testing. I really tried to get acorss to them the importance getting tested and encouraging their friends and family members to be tested as well! Lastly, we talked about the imoprtance of education and why everyone should finish their high school education and continue to the college level. I encouraged them to set goals for themselves and to dream big! It as great to hear all of their aspirations for the future and I just really wanted to portray to them that you can do anything you set you mind to, so don't let anyone or anything stand in your way! I had a really good experience at this appearance and pray that I was able to touch some of the kids with my words!

September 26-Cincinnati AIDS Walk 2009!!!

2009-09-26T17:25:00.001-07:00

Today was the 20th annual Cincinnati AIDS Walk, and my first appearance as the spokeperson for STOP AIDS!! The day began around 7:45 am when I arrived at Sawyer Point Park to the smell of Starbucks...yay!!! During the morning session, we heard music from the Cincinnati Men's Chorus, and sounds from DJ Andy G!!! In the midst of several radio and tv personalities, we got the walkers warmed up with some of the latest tunes and a few "old school jams." The favorite of the morning seemed to be the Cupid Shuffle and of course I came off the stage and into the crowd to particpate...and then the rain came. It just misted a little but not enough to keep nearly a thousand of walkers from walking the 5 mile trek for the cause! After the walk, I had the opportunity to speak to the walkers during their lunch of traditional chilli dogs about my passion, the prevention of HIV! It went well, and I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to work with such an organization during my year as Miss Black Ohio USA! I have never been around a more professional, organized and passionate group of people and I can't wait to fight with them to STOP AIDS!!! http://www.stopaidscincinnati.org/

September 25th-Photoshoot!

2009-09-26T15:26:00.000-07:00

Today, I had my first photoshoot as Miss Black Ohio USA!!! I shot with Clatties Moorer of Clatties Moorer Photography wearing fashions by Linda Love of Cincinnati, Ohio! As always, I had a great time with Clatties and loved the high fashion clothes I was blessed to be able to model! I'm so excited to shoot with him again as Linda has a few little designer tricks in her bag for me! Hopefully I will be modeling more of her clothes throughout this year in various photoshoots and at different event! Here are a couple of my fav shots from the shoot! More to come!

September 19th-Salvisa Days Pageant!

2009-09-23T08:49:00.000-07:00

Today, I got to travel to Salvisa, KY for one of the festival pageants, the Salvisa Days Festival Pageant! I got to judge contestants from 4 years of age all the way to the Miss category! The pageant was held outside, in the middle of Main Street! It was a blast, a little hot at times, but the funniest thing was that Main street is on a hill so most of the time when I sat back in my chair, I felt like I was going to tumble down the hill! Not to mention the contestants trying to stay poised with their turns under such conditions! I had a great time, the other judges were a hoot! I really enjoy being on the other side of the judges table, its a totally different perspective that I'm sure will help me in my preparation for Nationals!

August 31st-My first appearance as Miss Black Ohio USA!!!!

2009-09-21T08:25:00.000-07:00

Today I had my first appearance and I have to say that it was a great one!!! I was blessed with the opportunity to be an Honorary Captain at the Cincinnati Reds game!!! I got to walk out to home plate with one of the captains, Edinson, one of the pitchers and attend the captains meeting! I'm a basketball player, so hearing all the baseball rules was a whirlwind especially when the umpire turns to me and says, "can you recite that back to the players!?!" I had a great time watching the game and they really made me feel like a celeb!! Ha! It was my first professional baseball game, and definitely a fun experience...I want to go back!!

Press Release: Miss Black Ohio USA 2010 Crowned!!!

2009-09-21T08:13:00.001-07:00

Cincinnati resident wins title of Miss Black Ohio USA 2010 and now advances compete in the Miss Black USA Pageant.

Columbus, OH – August 20, 2009– Out besting a field of phenomenal contestants, University of Louisville graduate, Ashley Danielle Miller captured the title of Miss Black Ohio USA 2009 in Columbus, OH on August 16, 2009. Competing as Miss Black Columbus Ohio USA, Ashley is also a Cum Laude graduate of Berea College and is currently employed as a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. She will now represent the Buckeye State at the national pageant in 2010.

Ashley is the daughter of Keith Miller and Michele Crider. She has a younger brother, Keith Jr. , who has been her motivation to be a success in life. She is member of Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, Fleur de Lis Honor Society and was Berea College’s All-Time Leading Female Rebounder. Among her list of accomplishments, she lists being the first member of her immediate family to graduate from college as one of her most endearing. She loves anything that challenges her and welcomes the challenge of being a strong representative for the state.

The leading Clinician at Planned Parenthood states that dancing and playing basketball are her first loves. Ashley is a staunch advocate of HIV/AIDS Awareness, Prevention and Education.

When asked if she was ready to compete at the national level, she stated that she is more than ready. Her new job as Ohio’s representative in the Miss Black USA pageant promises to provide a year of community service, travel and experience to continue her trek as a role model for young women of color. Having served as Miss University of Louisville and finishing as 1st Runner Up in the Miss Kentucky Scholarship Pageant, she brings experience and desire unmatched.

Her message that HIV and AIDS are preventable diseases currently plaguing over forty million people worldwide, contracted every six and half seconds, and followed by death in every ten seconds will be delivered with what she calls her best asset, her “contagious smile.”