My Reign Thus Far

Hey! I'm back :) I hope that you are doing well. I am so excited that I can't even sleep. Christmas is only ONE day away! Happy holidays to all of you out there. I have decided to post a blog of my journey as queen thus far. I hope that you enjoy. I will be sure to post some pictures as well within the next few days. As we celebrate the season, let's be thankful for what we have. I thank God everyday for allowing me to serve. Here's a peak into a very memorable reign thus far :)

JJ’s Jam Honors Program- December 14th 2006- As Miss Black Atlanta USA, I was the guest speaker for the DeKalb Alternative School’s honors program. The school, which is located in Decatur, honors students who have made academic and conduct improvement every semester. I spoke to the honorees and ate breakfast with the students and faculty as well. It was my first guest speaker event as a titleholder.

Festival of Trees- December 2006- As Miss Black Atlanta USA, I attended the annual holiday fest at the Georgia World Congress Center along with Miss Black Georgia USA 2006 Bessie Winn, Ms. Black Georgia USA 2006 Carla Tyrell, and Miss Black Georgia Teen USA 2006 Kirstie Maddox. We had our own gingerbread house-making station! We assisted children with making their sweet treats. I had lots of fun and mingled with all of the families who attended the event.

Miss Black Georgia USA 2007 Pageant- Sunday, April 22, 2007-I was crowned queen at the event held at the Carter Center in Atlanta. A dream came true for me that night. I also won the Best Interview Score Award. With God and my family’s support, my reign and platform, Reflect M.E. (My Essence)-Defining Beauty Beyond the Media, took motion.

Georgia Women of Achievement Mother-Daughter Brunch-Thursday, May 10 2007- I was the invited guest speaker at the event held at Sandtown Middle School in Atlanta. The brunch was geared toward honoring mothers for Mother’s Day. The event allowed me to reunite with the young women at the school who performed in Sandtown’s Jaguar Pageant which I hosted as Miss Black Atlanta 2006. I have established great bonds with the Sandtown family.

Nu Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fratenity, Inc. 27th Annual Founder’s Day Scholarship Gala-June 15th 2007- I co-hosted the event with 11 ALIVE Anchor Clarence Reynolds at the Holiday Inn in Downtown Decatur. The brothers of the fraternity and the Charles H. Wesley Education Foundation honored three young men who received scholarship funds for college and community leaders. The event was attended by other sorority and fraternity members, dignitaries, school officials, and elected officials in the metro-Atlanta community. I also had the opportunity to mingle with some of my Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. sorors as well at the event that featured a silent auction and jazz band.

2nd Annual Father’s Day Extravaganza-June 16th 2007- I judged the competition alongside Ms. Black Georgia USA Lydia Powell at Greenbriar Mall’s Macy’s Court. The “Best Dressed Dad Search” event was sponsored by M.E.N.S. Inc. 107.5 Radio Personality Si-Man hosted the event. Singers, dancers, and hip hop artists in the community provided entertainment for the event. The competition awarded local dads with gifts and a “Father of the Year” award. It was so tough to choose a frontrunner. All of the men are doing wonderful things for the families and communities. I honor each and every father.

Miss Black Tift County Scholarship Pageant Fellowship Dinner-June 30th 2007- I attended the event with Miss Black Teen Georgia USA 2006 Kirstie Maddox. It was held at the Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Dining Hall in Tifton, GA. I delivered a poem and a speech on self-esteem to the parents and contestants of the pageant. I was also interviewed on my views surrounding self-esteem by the owner of a South Georgia television station, One Vision Media. Following the dinner, I took pictures with the pageant contestants. It was truly a wonderful event. I even had the opportunity to perform some of my poetry for the guest!

“Empowered for Success” Network Symposium- July 1st 2007- I spoke at the Atlanta event about women working together. I also gave more information about the Miss Black Georgia USA foundation to the attendees. I attended the event with Ms. Black Georgia USA Lydia Powell. After speaking at the event, I networked with women authors, business owners, and hair care specialists. The symposium consisted of motivational speakers, a fashion show, makeup artists, and hair care seminars.

Hank Stewart’s Sixth Annual White Linen Affair- July 14th 2007- I made a special appearance at the Atlanta event that was held at the Association of Black Cardiologists, Inc. I, along with Ms. Black Georgia USA Lydia Powell, participated in the red carpet affair and reception. The event consisted of book signings and poetry readings. Other attendees at the event were Congressman Hank Johnson, Congressman John Lewis, Former Atlanta Brave Brian Jordan, Bern Nadette Stanis from Good Times, and Cee Cee Michaela from Girlfriends. Author and Musician Hank Stewart performed some of his poetry. Artists Raymond Cody and Five Men on a Stool also performed. Portions of the proceeds went to benefit the Stewart Foundation.

Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness Adolescent Health and Youth Development Summit- July 18th 2007- I served as a keynote speaker for the event held at the Loudermilk Center in Atlanta. I spoke to the parents and teens about creating a vision and seeing themselves through their own eyes. The themes during the day ranged from abstinence to drug-free living. I ate breakfast with the event sponsors and other community leaders. The event was also held in collaboration with the African-American Outreach Center for Parents Speak Up National Campaign and the Rockdale Medical Center.


Warm Chatter Café with Young and the Restless Star Victoria Rowell- July 29, 2007- I attended the event sponsored by the East Point Community Action Team in East Point’s H.J.C. Bowden Facility. The event rested on the theme of “Change a Lifetime” for children in foster care. Rowell, famed actress and former foster care child, spoke to attendees about her childhood experiences and how she overcame her struggles. Rowell also signed copies of her book, “The Women Who Raised Me.” East Point Mayor Patsy Jo Hilliard and FOX 5 Anchor Lisa Rayam were among the guests. I purchased a book at the event, as well as had it signed by the author. Ms. Victoria Rowell is truly an inspiration to women everywhere.

Bronner Bros. International Hair Show- Saturday- Monday August 18th-20th- The 60th annual event was held at Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center. I was a featured runway model for Bovanti Cosmetics during the three-day event which included fashion shows, entertainment, and contests. I modeled with the Bovanti Twins. Also, I wore couture clothing by national designer Frederico whose work has been featured in Vogue and Essence magazines. While at the event, I had the opportunity to meet celebrities and community leaders such as Pastor Dale Bronner and actress, Lynn Whitfield. A photo of my modeling was included in Rolling Out magazine’s coverage of the extravaganza.

Atlanta Hip Hop Film Festival Awards Ceremony- Saturday, August 25th- I was a guest presenter for the “Hip Hop Throwback” award handed out at the event which was held at Atlanta’s Holiday Inn Select hotel. I awarded the honor to cast and crew members of popular film “House Party.” Miss Black Georgia Teen USA Esonia Webb also attended the event and accompanied me on the red carpet preceding the show. I had the opportunity to meet celebrities Christopher “Play” Martin, singer Montell Jordan, and rap legend Whodini among others.

Healthy Body, Healthy Minds Expo- Saturday, September 8th- I attended this event at Atlanta’s Carver High School. Ms. Black Georgia USA Lydia Powell assisted me in sharing information about the pageant to prospective girls. The event consisted of exhibits from medical institutions such as Kool Smiles, Emory University Healthcare, and Fulton County Health Department.

“The Women of Brewster Place” Musical Premiere and VIP Reception- Wednesday, September 12 , 2007- I attended the much-anticipated opening at the Tony Award-Winning Alliance Theatre in Atlanta. I had the opportunity to not only see a spectacular production of one of my favorite movies, but join my friend and Alliance Theatre Reviewer Shana Basnight on the red carpet. We met the play’s director and actresses as well as film and television stars Robin Givens, Star Jones, Leon, Jackeé, and Suzanne Douglass. It was truly a great night of entertainment and seeing Atlanta’s artistic scene at its best.

KBCC Teen Enrichment Seminar -Saturday, September 15th- I was the guest speaker at a self-esteem event for teenage girls. I, along with Miss Black Georgia Teen USA Esonia Webb, discussed our experiences in pageantry. We also opened up the floor for questions. The girls were very interested in our experiences. We even taught them how to walk and speak in front of an audience. This was truly an uplifting session. The event was held at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Alpharetta.

Anna Skirts and Shirts’ Rocawear Fashion Show- Sunday, September 23rd- I was the commentator for the youth fashion show held at the College Park Auditorium. The event was sponsored by the clothing company as well as Anna Skirts and Shirts youth organization. Teenagers involved in the youth group also performed spoken word, dance, and songs during the event. I, along with founder Barbara Pickett, was featured in an online magazine called Youth Activity News.

Black College Hall of Fame Queen’s Tea- Thursday, September 27th-I joined college queens from historically black colleges for a tea held at the Georgia State Capitol. I had the opportunity to speak to some of the queens about their future goals as well as my experiences as Miss Black Georgia USA. We took pictures as well. They all remind me so much of myself as a college student…even though I just graduated in May J All of the young women exude the intelligence, confidence, and sophistication that will surely take them far in life. I wish them all the very best.


1st Annual Youth Gospel Entertainment Awards Saturday September 29th- I attended the event hosted at Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church in Norcross. Hip Hop pioneer and minister Sparky D hosted the event. The show honored youth in ministry in areas of stepping, dancing, and singing. Youth pastors were also honored for their community service. A fashion show followed the awards ceremony.
Hands On Atlanta’s National Teen Read Month Service Project-Saturday, 0ctober 6th- I joined Miss Black Georgia Teen Esonia Webb and other Atlanta youths make bookmarks and posters in celebration of the month’s mission. The service project was held at the Miss Black Georgia USA office. Local girl scouts also assisted with the service. Not only did I work with them in their area, but I gave them some encouraging words after end of the project.

Jermaine Dupri’s Official BET Awards Pre-Show Party- Friday, October 12th- I attended the hip hop extravaganza as a VIP guest. It was held at Studio 72 in Atlanta. Many celebrities attended the red carpet affair such as Jermaine Dupri, R&B songbird Ashanti, Rap Star Chingy, members of Hip Hop group Crime Mob, and Atlanta Hawks basketball players.

GIRLS Inc. Media Literacy Summit – Thursday, October 18th- I served as a media facilitator during the annual summit held at Agnes Scott College in Decatur. Approximately 900 girls, ages ranging from 6-18, attended this event from area schools, group homes, and organizations. The summit was geared toward helping girls develop the skills necessary to wade through the media messages that bombard them daily. Attendees had the opportunity to hear inspirational speakers and attend a wide array of workshops led by national and local youth development experts. I really enjoyed the summit and working with the young women. I have formed a partnership with the nationally-recognized organization to assist me with my Reflect M.E. platform event.

Book It: A Teen Reader’s Festival- Saturday, October 20th- I was a volunteer at the event coordinated by In the Loop Program of Success and PowerFlow Media. It was held at the Southwest Arts Center in Atlanta during National Teen Read Week. Ms. Black Georgia USA Lydia Powell and I assisted with organizing materials for attendees. The event featured a writer’s workshop, author chats, book signings, and speakers. Noted authors attended the event such as Mitzi Miller, Monica McKayhan, Joyce E. Davis, Cecil Cross, and L. Divine.

Another Way Out Annual Scholarship (A.W.O.) Breakfast- Tuesday, October 23rd- I was a guest at the mentoring and after-school tutorial program’s event held at the One Ninety One Club in downtown Atlanta. Many local community and government leaders were in attendance such as Fulton County Commissioner Bill Edwards and Master of Ceremony 107.5’s Si-Man. A.W.O. is dedicated to providing mentoring services to students from varying backgrounds and all walks of life.
See it, Stop it, Prevent it 2nd Annual Teenage Domestic Violence Workshop- Saturday, October 27th – I was on-hand to volunteer for the seminar that was presented by Breakfree Inc. and Miss Black Georgia USA 2006 Bessie Winn at the Tupac Amaru Shakur Performing Arts Center in Decatur. The seminar targeted youth between the ages of 13-18 and was in recognition of National Domestic Violence Awareness month. The workshops included a skit demonstrating an unhealthy relationship, panel discussion, affirmations, and entertainment. Special guests were national recording artist Heston and A-Team co-host Rashan Ali-Smith of HOT 107.9 morning show.
Smoothie King Model Signing- Thursday, October 29th- I was featured on print ads and store posters for Smoothie King off Old National Highway. I signed autographs for patrons and showed my support for Smoothie King as well as the Miss Black Georgia USA foundation. I had a lot of fun drinking my strawberry smoothie and speaking to the families who came in the store. Young women were very interested in the pageant and happy to see me out and about. Smoothie King works to make us healthier. I believe in their premise and will do what I can to get messages of healthy living in our communities.

Miss Africa USA 2007 Pageant- Saturday, November 3rd- As an invited guest, I attended the event presented by the Shrine of Africa at the Ashok International Center in Norcross. Miss Black Georgia Teen USA Esonia Webb and Miss Black Alabama USA Arnecia Bradley joined me at this occasion. Twenty contestants from various African countries competed for the coveted title. Miss Sierra Leone won the title. The event also featured great dances, costumes, and food. Congolese Supermodel Noella Coursaris hosted the pageant.

Kroger Tour Healthy Soul Food Cooking Tour sponsored by the American Diabetes Association- Saturday, November 10th- I joined authors of nationally-sold cookbooks tell the importance of healthy eating and living. I attended Kroger locations off Metropolitan Pkwy, Old National Highway, and Moreland Avenue. I really enjoyed talking about healthy eating. Store shoppers were very open to learning how to eat healthier. I talked to some patrons about self-esteem as well. It was a very good tour. We must work to better ourselves both inside and out.

Metropolitan Atlanta Violence Prevention Partnership (MAVPP) Violence Prevention Capacity Building Breakfast- Friday, December 7th- As an invited guest, I attended the event that sought to answer sought to eliminate violence in our communities with scientifically-tested strategies. I met with community leaders, health professionals, educators, and faith-based organizers. The event, held at Adamsville Recreation Center in Atlanta, was created to join six metro-Atlanta counties in a regional campaign to prevent violence. The key metropolitan counties are Cobb, Clayton, DeKalb, Douglas, Fulton, and Gwinnett. There were also presentations done by doctors and specialists from the Center of Disease Control (CDC), Emory University, and the Morehouse School of Medicine. I briefly addressed the group as well as networked with attendees for my platform event to be held in March 2008.

McNair Middle School In-House Meeting- Wednesday, December 19th- I spoke to all of the young women at the school as their guest speaker. The school is located in Ellenwood. I spoke on issues of self-esteem as well as my past experiences as a student and challenges that youth face. I also had the chance to meet the young women, teachers, and administrators at the school. The students were an absolute pleasure! Moreover, I had to the chance to reunite with a past educator of mine, DeKalb County’s Mr. Stephon Rivas, who is still working to empower our youth.

Miss Black Georgia USA Holiday Mixer- Thursday, December 20th- I mingled and celebrated the holidays with members of the Miss Black Georgia USA Foundation family. Pageant titleholders, contestants, directors, and supporters of the pageant were in attendance at the event held at an exclusive location in Atlanta. I had so much fun chilling with the girls, reminiscing on fun memories, and talking about our plans for the upcoming year!

The Children’s Restoration Network 12 Days of Caring- December 22, 2007- I along with my pageant director, contestants, and supporters gathered at the former Baby’s R Us store in Dunwoody to wrap gifts for children. The gifts were collected from the organization’s toy drive. Other organizations and families attended the annual function that embraces the nearly1900 children living in group homes or homeless shelters in 18 Metro-Atlanta counties. I had a lot of fun with members of the Miss Black Georgia USA Family as we wrapped gifts, listened to Christmas music, and enjoyed ourselves while helping others. By wrapping and shopping for the gifts off the children’s wish list, I pray that we were able to ultimately spread love and hope during the holiday season.

Violence Prevention Breakfast

How do we eliminate violence in our communities? Yesterday I attended an event that sought to answer that question with scientifically-tested strategies. I met with community leaders, health professionals, educators, and faith-based organizers to talk about youth and gang violence at the Metropolitan Atlanta Violence Prevention Partnership's 2nd annual breakfast. The event, held at Adamsville Recreation Center in Atlanta, was created to join six metro-Atlanta counties in a regional campaign to prevent violence. I was extremely taken back by the data findings of victims of violence (homicides and suicides) in our area. The key metropolitan counties are Cobb, Clayton, DeKalb, Douglas, Fulton, and Gwinnett. After watching presentations by doctors and specialists from the Center of Disease Control (CDC), Emory University, and the Morehouse School of Medicine, I realized that not only are there many under-served communities, but that the difference between homicides in the black community and other communities are very wide . I was most touched by a mother who lost her 21 year-old son to violence only 2 weeks ago. She talked very openly about her tragedy and the senseless nature of it. She was in deep pain. The event consisted of lots of statistical data, but this woman was able to put a face and a real life story to all of the information. My prayers go out to her and many other families who are dealing with violence.
I left the event even more motivated to push my self-esteem initiative. I believe that a lot of the violence among youth is caused by low self-esteem. The old African proverb that "it takes a village to raise a child," definitely held true for this event. We have to put together all of our resources to save our children. After the breakfast, I networked with community activists and educators. I look forward to working with them for my upcoming event for girls in March. This event sparked conversation, and will initiate change.

Greetings, World!

I am Marissa Mitchell, Miss Black Georgia USA 2007! I am so happy to be able to connect with you! With this blog, I hope to share my experiences as queen as well as let you know other projects that I am working on. Here's some information about me. I am a 2007 graduate of Emory University with my BA in Journalism and Political Science. I love to read, talk, and write. So those majors suited me perfectly! During my time at Emory, I was also very involved in the arts. I directed and starred in plays at the school. My love for theatre has led me to pursue a Masters in Fine Arts degree, as well as act in local productions. I am currently researching schools to find the best programs in nation. Let me know if you have any ideas!
All of my education and experiences are part of the path I choose to lead me into a successful career as a film/theatre actress and television host. In all that I do, I seek to touch others. I feel that communication is the greatest gift we have as human beings, making words so powerful. I use words to speak motivationally to youth in metro-Atlanta and other parts of Georgia. My platform is Reflect M.E. (My Essence): Defining Beauty Beyond the Media). I work with young women ages 13-18 to uplift their self-esteem in the midst of all the media portrayals of beauty. My platform event will be held March 2008 at Emory University. I will post more information about that event soon. In essence, I feel so blessed to be able to inspire others in my community, as well as be inspired by every person I meet. I have had the opportunity to do numerous community service projects, meet with community leaders and dignitaries, attend banquets, galas, and shows. In future posts, I will go into detail with a list of some of my special memories of my reign thus far! I have so many wonderful things to share and I look forward to allowing you to take a peak into my world. The interesting part is that my world is your world, and vice versa. We have to work together to make our lives more fulfilling. Stay tuned!