Norton Healthcare pay tribute to Dr. Kelly McCants in a permanent memorial

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The link above shows the dedication ceremony.

By Sherlene Shanklin

The impact of one doctor changed the lives of many. Kelly C. McCants, M.D. passed away unexpectedly this year, leaving so many saddened. I’ve sat in rooms and even coordinated events where he was honored. One man working on the catering team approached me said, ‘He said my life’! His symptoms and how he was feeling was being ignored but Dr. McCants listened and took action. Placing stints in his heart. Saving his life. He was brought to tears.

I told that story before we presented Dr. McCant’s award and it moved him so that went to the man and they embraced. That mutual feeling of respect travelled throughout the community because of his willingness to take those extra steps by listening and then acting saved numerous lives in this community. Some legacies leave footprints that last far beyond a lifetime. 

The Norton Healthcare community gathered to honor the life and legacy of McCants with the unveiling of a permanent tribute at Norton Heart & Vascular Institute – Audubon. The display features Dr. McCants’ beloved cowboy boots alongside a memorial plaque. This serves as a reminder of the one-of-a-kind physician, leader, mentor and friend who wore them.

Dr. McCants dedicated his career to transforming heart care, advancing health equity and ensuring every person had a fair chance at better health. His impact can be felt across Norton Healthcare and throughout our community.

His boots now have a permanent home at Norton Healthcare, but the footprints Dr. McCants left on our patients, our community and each other will carry on for generations.

Colin Kaepernick named Muhammad Ali Humanitarian of the Year

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By Sherlene Shanklin

The Muhammad Ali Center announces that former NFL quarterback, civil rights activist and entrepreneur Colin Kaepernick is this year’s recipient of ‘Humanitarian of the Year’ award. Kaepernick will receive the honor at the 13th annual Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards, the Center’s largest annual fundraiser to support the Center’s mission-based programs and events. It will take place on November 7 in Louisville, KY.

Kaepernick joins an esteemed class of ‘Humanitarian of the Year’ recipients since the launch of the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards in 2013, including Shaquille O’Neal, Christina Aguilera, Michael J. Fox, Common, Patricia Arquette, Geena Davis, and more.

Like Muhammad, Colin has used his platform to advocate for equality, human dignity, and social change, even when doing so came at significant personal and professional cost.” said Lonnie Ali, Co-Founder and President & CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center. “Through Know Your Rights Camp and his broader philanthropic efforts, Colin has turned his convictions into meaningful action by educating,empowering, and supporting young people and communities. His courage, sacrifice, and sustained dedication to service embody the humanitarian spirit and enduring legacy of Muhammad Ali.”

“Receiving the Muhammad Ali Center’s Humanitarian of the Year Award is an incredible honor,” said Colin Kaepernick. “Muhammad Ali lived with an uncommon courage to stand firmly in his convictions, even when doing so came at a great personal cost. He understood that our platforms are not simply ours to benefit from, but ours to use in service of others. To be recognized in his name is simultaneously humbling and a responsibility. I remain committed to bring about justice, uplift our communities, and develop a world where all people can live with freedom, dignity, and self-determination.”

The Muhammad Ali Center is a 501(c)(3) that prides itself on being much more than a museum.As an athlete, a humanitarian, a global voice and man guided by faith, Muhammad Ali embodied a pursuit and belief in the greatness found in all people. Founded in 2005 by Lonnie and Muhammad Ali in his hometown of Louisville, the Center is dedicated to honoring Ali and continuing work based on his core principles.

Roots & Reins: The Forgotten Cowboys Benefit Dinner

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Louisville, KY (August 25, 2026) Prestigious Entertainment Group, in partnership with Roots 101 African American Museum, proudly announces Roots & Reins: The Forgotten Cowboys Benefit Dinner, a powerful cultural event honoring the untold legacy of Black cowboys and cowgirls whose skill, courage, and contributions helped build and shape the American West.

Guided by the theme “One Journey. One Table. Centuries of History.,” this benefit dinner brings guests together for an evening of heritage, storytelling, and celebration. The event uplifts the often‑overlooked pioneers whose labor and leadership defined ranching, rodeo culture, and the evolution of American identity. Attire for the event is rodeo elevated and/or western chic.

Entertainment for the evening features Hannah Drake, The Sankofa Players and other special guests will perform.

Held at Roots 101 African American Museum, the evening will support educational programming and preservation initiatives that spotlight Black equestrian history and strengthen community awareness.

  • Event Details
  • Date: August 30
  • Time: 6:00 PM
  • Location: Roots 101 African American Museum, 124 N. 1st Street in downtown Louisville
  • Purpose: Benefit dinner supporting cultural preservation and historical education
  • Presented by: Prestigious Entertainment Group & Roots 101 African American Museum

Tickets are $80 and include the following: reserved seating inclusions plus one complimentary cocktail upon arrival, priority entry, and preferred table placement closest to the stage and speakers. Also, a full plated dinner, passed appetizers and priority entry into African cowboy heritage exhibition.

When you purchase your Roots and Reins tickets, you will receive a general admission ticket to the Bourbon, Blues and Boots on Saturday, September 19th in Shelbyville with Grammy-nominated artists Nappy Roots will perform. 

Prestigious Entertainment Group and Roots 101 continue their shared commitment to elevating African American heritage through immersive cultural experiences, community engagement, and storytelling that honors the past while inspiring future generations.

Roots 101 African American Museum returns as the event’s charitable partner, supporting cultural preservation and community engagement. The museum’s mission is to promote understanding and inspire appreciation of African American achievements, contributions, and experiences through exhibits, programs, and activities that illuminate the depth and richness of our history, culture, and art.

Please announce and/or post on your calendars and social platforms. If you would like to setup an interview, contact VIPP Communications at info@vippcommunications.com. For additional information visit our website at www.kyhoedown.com.

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The Community Foundation of Louisville introduces their new President and CEO

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Courtesy: Gary Barragan

In a news conference held on Monday, August 17th, the Community Foundation of Louisville announces that Tawanda Owsley will step in the leadership role as Ron Gallo retires.

Owsley is a trusted community leader with nearly 25 years of philanthropic and leadership experience. Leading multimillion dollar fundraising campaigns and building strategic partnerships is her expertise. 

As President and CEO, she will advance the Foundation’s mission to lead generosity across the region.

Owsley is ready for the challenge.  She says, “I am deeply honored to accept the opportunity to serve as President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Louisville. This organization has a remarkable legacy of bringing people, ideas, and resources together to create meaningful change. I look forward to working alongside the Foundation’s board, staff, fundholders, donors, and community partners to expand opportunity, inspire generosity, and help build a stronger, future for Louisville and the region we call home.”

Tawanda will officially begin her role with the Community Foundation on September 14, 2026.

The Community Foundation of Louisville founded in 1984, mobilizes people, networks, and capital to spark meaningful change in and beyond Louisville. With nearly $1 billion in assets, over 2,200 charitable funds, and collaborations with hundreds of local partners.  The key priorities of the Foundation’s mission is to remove barriers to accessing capital and resources and to open opportunities for all. 

New Stage. A Renewed Legacy: Louisville Central Community Centers to Launch State-of-the-Art Grand Lyric Theater Through Family Arts Academy, Featuring The Curtis Family C-Notes  

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New Stage. A Renewed Legacy: Louisville Central Community Centers to Launch State-of-the-Art Grand Lyric Theater Through Family Arts Academy, Featuring The Curtis Family C-Notes  

LOUISVILLE, KY (August 2, 2026) — Louisville Central Community Centers, Inc. (LCCC) proudly announces the grand opening of the Grand Lyric Theater, marking a transformative cultural milestone in the heart of the Russell neighborhood. Located at 1300 W. Muhammad Ali Boulevard, the new venue represents the visionary redevelopment of

the historic Old Walnut Street campus—transforming a former industrial block into a vibrant community and cultural hub. The theater’s name honors the rich history of “Old Walnut Street,” a once-thriving African American commercial and cultural corridor impacted by 1960s urban renewal.

Event Highlights & Historic Opening

The Grand Lyric’s opening celebration will feature a “big impact week” of programs and events that bring together children, families, business and civic leaders, and cultural icons under a common banner of family and community development.  

Beyond the Ribbon: A Call to Action & Operational Sustainability

While the grand opening commemorates the successful completion of major capital development, LCCC is actively pivoting toward long-term operational sustainability. The organization is issuing a formal call-to-action for funding partners, stakeholders, performing artists, producers and community leaders to join a newly formed Operating Advisory

Group. This leadership collective will support the ongoing economic viability of the Grand Lyric Theater as a premier magnet for the arts and a catalyst for continued investment across West Louisville.

“This is more than a building; it is a renewed legacy,” states Dr. Kevin E. Fields, Sr., President and CEO of LCCC. “We are transitioning from an industrial past to a creative future, ensuring this theater serves as a stage for community empowerment for generations to come.”

Upcoming Cultural Programming: The Curtis Family C-Notes Residency

Building upon the momentum of its opening season, the Grand Lyric Theater is thrilled to announce an upcoming week-long residency featuring the acclaimed, San Francisco-based soul and funk family band The Curtis Family C-Notes (“C Fam”) from August 17 to August 22, 2026. Known for their vibrant multi-instrumental performances, appearances on America’s Got Talent (Season 16), and recognition as “The San Francisco First Family of Song,” the family group will headline a series of community events at LCCC.

The special week features:

Family Arts Camp (August 17 – 19): Engaging local youth and families in interactive workshops in creative arts, music programming, and entertainment industry essentials.

VIP Gala (August 20): Corporate and civic leaders will gather for a Midsummer Night’s Soirée, an exclusive evening of fine dining and entertainment, celebrating community partnership, arts education, and cultural enrichment.

Community Concert Series (August 21-22): Unforgettable live performances with the C-Notes and friends on the Grand

Lyric Theater stage showcasing their signature soul, funk, and R&B repertoire.

Community members, supporters, and media partners can learn more, register for camp sessions, secure gala access,

and purchase concert tickets through the official LCCC event portals:

• Family Arts Camp Registration

• VIP Gala Tickets

• Community Series & Ticketing

• Meet The Curtis Family C-Notes on YouTube

About Louisville Central Community Centers, Inc. (LCCC):

LCCC is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive, family-centered services that foster self-reliance, economic development, and neighborhood revitalization in Louisville’s historic Russell neighborhood.

Media Contact & Inquiries: VIPP Communications, Email: pr at vippcommunications dot com.

Jubilation! Ambassadors on a Sacred Journey Comes to Louisville, Celebrating the Legacy of the Fisk Jubilee Singers

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Kentucky Center for African American Heritage to host national traveling exhibition September 18, 2026 –
February 28, 2027

LOUISVILLE, KY. [August 10, 2026] Jubilation! Ambassadors on a Sacred Journey, the traveling exhibition
celebrating the Fisk Jubilee Singers, will open at the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage on Friday,
September 18, 2026, and run through Sunday, February 28, 2027.

Organized by students at Fisk University in 1871, the Fisk Jubilee Singers set out on tour to raise money to
save their financially struggling school. Their performances of spirituals — songs born out of slavery and
passed down through oral tradition — introduced the world to a uniquely American musical form and secured
the university’s survival. The ensemble went on to perform for U.S. presidents and heads of state and remains
an active choir today.

The exhibition, created by the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) in partnership with Fisk
University, guides visitors through the origins, history, and lasting influence of the Fisk Jubilee Singers through
immersive audio-visual displays, archival recordings, and personal stories of the group’s original members.

Cheri Bryant Hamilton, Honorary Co-Chair, Fisk University, Class of 1972 says, “I’m so elated that Louisville
has the wonderful opportunity to host the Jubilation! Ambassadors on a Sacred Journey, the travelling exhibit.
It tells the story of the Fisk Jubilee Singers. As a proud alumnus and an honorary co-chair for the Louisville
exhibit, it’s more than a choir. The Jubilee Singers hold the history of resilience, and the amazing story of why
Nashville was named the ‘Music City’. I carry the spirit of my school with me, and now, with every step of this
exhibit, I feel it is a history lesson that comes alive with this interactive exhibit for everyone to experience. I
encourage everyone to come, take the tour, and come back often for other planned events and live
performances during the stay of the exhibit.”

Louisville’s stop carries a distinct local resonance: Simmons College of Kentucky, the Commonwealth’s only
Historically Black College and University in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, was founded in 1879 — just eight
years after the Fisk Jubilee Singers’ first tour, and out of the same post-Civil War push for Black higher
education.

“Jubilation! Ambassadors on a Sacred Journey is more than an exhibit — it is a living classroom. As a Fisk
alum, I know the transformative power of seeing our history honored with truth and brilliance.
This experience invites every student, every family, and every community to learn, reflect, and rise. It
strengthens the mind, affirms the spirit, and ensures that our heritage continues to educate generations yet to
come” says Rev. Dr. Daniel Corrie Shull, Honorary Co-Chair Fisk University, Class of 2009.

This exhibit tells the story of their journey, of their spirit, pride in culture and their remarkable creativity and
vocal skill.

“The Fisk Jubilee Singers demonstrated how faith, education, perseverance, and music could change the
course of history,” said Aukram Burton, Executive Director of the Kentucky Center for African American
Heritage. “Their voices preserved an invaluable cultural legacy while opening doors for future generations of
African American artists. We are honored to bring this nationally significant exhibition to Kentucky and share
their remarkable story with audiences throughout the Commonwealth.”

Jubilation! is $15 per person and open to the public Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am-4 pm at the Kentucky Center
for African American Heritage’s 17th Street entrance. Additional community programming will be announced
throughout the exhibition’s run.

About the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage:
The Kentucky Center for African American Heritage is a 68,000-square-foot cultural campus dedicated to
preserving, interpreting, and celebrating African American history, heritage, and cultural contributions in
Kentucky and throughout the African Diaspora through exhibitions, education, performances, and community

Media Inquiries: Contact VIPP Communications at jubilationkcaah at vippcommunications dot com.

New Stage. A Renewed Legacy: Louisville Central Community Centers to Launch State-of-the-Art Grand Lyric Theater Through Family Arts Academy, Featuring The Curtis Family C-Notes

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LOUISVILLE, KY (August 2, 2026) — Louisville Central Community Centers, Inc. (LCCC) proudly announces the grand
opening of the Grand Lyric Theater, marking a transformative cultural milestone in the heart of the Russell
neighborhood. Located at 1300 W. Muhammad Ali Boulevard, the new venue represents the visionary redevelopment of
the historic Old Walnut Street campus—transforming a former industrial block into a vibrant community and cultural
hub. The theater’s name honors the rich history of “Old Walnut Street,” a once-thriving African American commercial
and cultural corridor impacted by 1960s urban renewal.

Event Highlights & Historic Opening
The Grand Lyric’s opening celebration will feature a “big impact week” of programs and events that bring together
children, families, business and civic leaders, and cultural icons under a common banner of family and community
development.

Beyond the Ribbon: A Call to Action & Operational Sustainability
While the grand opening commemorates the successful completion of major capital development, LCCC is actively
pivoting toward long-term operational sustainability. The organization is issuing a formal call-to-action for funding
partners, stakeholders, performing artists, producers and community leaders to join a newly formed Operating Advisory
Group. This leadership collective will support the ongoing economic viability of the Grand Lyric Theater as a premier
magnet for the arts and a catalyst for continued investment across West Louisville.

“This is more than a building; it is a renewed legacy,” states Dr. Kevin E. Fields, Sr., President and CEO of LCCC. “We are
transitioning from an industrial past to a creative future, ensuring this theater serves as a stage for community
empowerment for generations to come.”

Upcoming Cultural Programming: The Curtis Family C-Notes Residency
Building upon the momentum of its opening season, the Grand Lyric Theater is thrilled to announce an upcoming week
long residency featuring the acclaimed, San Francisco-based soul and funk family band The Curtis Family C-Notes (“C
Fam”) from August 17 to August 22, 2026. Known for their vibrant multi-instrumental performances, appearances on
America’s Got Talent (Season 16), and recognition as “The San Francisco First Family of Song,” the family group will
headline a series of community events at LCCC.

The special week features:
Family Arts Camp (August 17 – 19): Engaging local youth and families in interactive workshops in creative arts, music
programming, and entertainment industry essentials.
VIP Gala (August 20): Corporate and civic leaders will gather for a Midsummer Night’s Soirée, an exclusive evening of
fine dining and entertainment, celebrating community partnership, arts education, and cultural enrichment.
Community Concert Series (August 21-22): Unforgettable live performances with the C-Notes and friends on the Grand
Lyric Theater stage showcasing their signature soul, funk, and R&B repertoire.
Community members, supporters, and media partners can learn more, register for camp sessions, secure gala access,
and purchase concert tickets through the official LCCC event portals:

  • Family Arts Camp Registration
  • VIP Gala Tickets
  • Community Series & Ticketing
  • Meet The Curtis Family C-Notes on YouTube
  • About Louisville Central Community Centers, Inc. (LCCC):
    LCCC is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive, family-centered services that
    foster self-reliance, economic development, and neighborhood revitalization in Louisville’s historic Russell neighborhood.

For media interviews contact VIPP Communications at pr at vippcommunications dot com.

AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE FOUNDATION INC. LAUNCHES COMMUNITY VISIONING INITIATIVE WITH FREE PUBLIC KICK-OFF EVENT

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Event Details: What: AAHF Community Kick-Off!

LOUISVILLE, KY- The African American Heritage Foundation invites members of the media to the AAHF Community Kick-Off! The Foundation celebrates 35 years of impact and this event will connect the Foundation to the community and complete phase 1 of the “Road to 35” strategic planning process. 

Date: Saturday August 1st, 2026 11:30am – 2pm

Location: Kentucky Center for African American Heritage, 1701 West Muhammad Ali Blvd. 

Activations: Drum call and performance with Akoben Rooted Drum Collective 11:45am Black Prosperity Magazine Launch with Black Azz Camping 12:00pm-2:00pmTiny Desk Art Show with Okike and Black ARTchive Inc. 12:00pm-2:00pmHeritage Passport with The Sis That Journals, Dallum Ventures, and Future Ancestors 12:00pm-1:00pm

Coverage Opportunities: Q&A after the event interview opportunities with SteVon Edwards and other community partners present community photo opportunities/ B-roll

The African American Heritage Foundation Inc. is dedicated to preserving and disseminating  the cultural traditions and accomplishments of the African American community.  Learn more at www.aahfinc.org