Kentucky native is racking up awards at film festivals across the country

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Ericka Nicole Malone

ERICKA NICOLE MALONE ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES HULU DEAL

Official Release

(Los Angeles, California) Louisville, native, former Western Kentucky University, (WKU) student, Ericka Nicole Malone of Ericka Nicole Malone Entertainment, LLC, is available for interviews. The Youth Performing Arts School, (YPAS), graduate of Manual High, a JCPS school is a successful writer, director, and executive producer. He latest award-winning project is “Remember Me: The Mahalia Jackson Story” starring Ledisi, Columbus Short, Janet Hubert, Keith David, Wendy Raquel Robinson, and Keith Robinson.

Malone says “I am so excited about this latest project; we took this film to various film festivals receiving so much attention. I am so excited to announce that this project you can now see the film on Hulu. This is a major deal for film and my production company. I am so proud of my Kentucky roots and every opportunity I get I acknowledge my home state.”

ERICKA NICOLE MALONE ENTERTAINMENT is a production company focused on the development, production/co-production and distribution of film, television, and animated projects nationwide. 

To setup an interview via phone and/or zoom, contact Sherlene Shanklin at VIPP Communications at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com or by calling 502.341-7306.

To read learn more on the Ericka Nicole Malone Entertainment go to www.erickanicolemalone.com.

To see the official trailer https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=remember+me+the+mahalia+jackson+story&docid=608026812518581063&mid=FE5AFC0CF9B3F0B12F5EFE5AFC0CF9B3F0B12F5E&view=detail&FORM=VIRE

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VIPP Communications is a full-service, public relations, event management and production firm headquartered in Louisville, KY with clients and/or projects all over the U.S. We can create, maintain and sustain your brand.  Our clientele ranges from small businesses, non-profits, corporate leaders, entertainment to current and retired professional athletes.  Contact one of our team members to see how we can assist you at info at vippcommunications dot com.  www.vippcommunications.com

The VIPP Report: The AKAs build beds for children in the community as they celebrate 100 years of service in Louisville

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By Sherlene Shanklin

The Eta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® celebrates their 100th year chapter anniversary by participating in the Build-A-Bed project. 

The Hortense B. Perry Foundation in Collaboration with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Eta Omega Chapter, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.®, Alpha Lambda Chapter, Jefferson County Public School, (JCPS) Office of Community Support Services, and Foresters Financial teamed up to ensure that JCPS children would have a better night’s sleep. 

On June 11th the organizations teamed up to participate in the Build-A-Bed project, an initiative designed to enhance the lives of school age children in the Louisville community.  The project is designed to provide beds for children who do not have beds in their homes or do not have beds at all. The goal was to build 25 beds.  From cutting and sanding wood beds to furnishing pillows, linens, and blankets.  Plus, books, and snacks as an added treat along with sone stuffed animals. The build took place at the Maude Brown Porter Center for Excellence located on South Crums Lane, in Louisville.

Lynetta Crawford, President of the Eta Omega Chapter says “It is very concerning that 1.5 to 2 million kids in America sleep on the floor each night,”  She goes on to say, “This is a very impactful service project that will fulfill a basic need for children in the Louisville community. We can truly make a difference in a child’s life by giving them a place to lay their heads.” The goal is to promote healthy bedtime rituals, improve the quality of sleep, and create happier days, brighter dreams, and more opportunities for a lifetime of success.

Ben Langley of the JCPS Office of Community Support Services gave an alarming local statistic. “More than 10,000 children are homeless during each school year in Jefferson County,” Langley adds “When family circumstances improve enough to enable the family to secure a place to call home, most of them start from scratch. For most children, this means either sleeping on a couch or, more often, on the floor. Having a bed to sleep in can give a stronger sense of stability and can help children get the rest they need in order to attend school and achieve academic success.”

The Hortense B. Perry Foundation mission is to provide resources and services within the community with focus on education, health, leadership development, economic empowerment, and the visual and performing arts. Our top priorities are: Education, Health, and Economic Empowerment.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Eta Omega Chapter was established in 1922 and is the first graduate chapter of the international organization to be chartered in the Louisville area. The chapter’s commitment to education and the advancement of individuals is pivotal to the foundational belief of service to all mankind.

They will have various events and activities throughout the year to celebrate their centennial celebration. 

***Reporter’s note*** I have been a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated for 26 years.

TheVIPPReport: Vincent James Sr, Dare to Care’s new president

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Vincent James Sr. works “faithfully” in the community. Once the Chief of Community Building for Metro Louisville, and pastor of Elim Baptist Church, to now… President and CEO of the fourth largest non-profit in Louisville.

James says “I went to Stephen Foster Elementary School, Gutermuth Elementary School because bussing had started at that time and graduated from elementary school went to Southern Middle/High at the time the middle school and high school were actually in the same facility.”

James graduated from Atherton High and got a finance degree from UofL with hopes of becoming a Wall Street investment banker, but he told his church, his purpose in life shifted.  
He said “We are going to be involved and engaged in the community and pretty much we were doing things in isolation as many churches do.”

Then violence renewed his purpose.  He will never forget. “It was a life changing moment.  May 17, 2012 there was a triple homicide outside my church. I was there.  I actually arrived when the first responders arrived.  I saw two young men who had shot at each other and had killed each other and that was devastating to me. And then a couple of hours later a couple of ladies with 60 police officers, detectives and news reporters shot another young lady shot her that was traumatic for the community, myself. I said whatever I need to do I’m going to do it.”

Then Mayor Fischer put James in the forefront.  James says “I know I made a change. When I look at not as much as I want too but when I look at the response of the community. How our community was hurting.  Things in terms of the administration was in. what was happening across the country one of the things I intentionally did as a pastor and chief of community building was how do we begin to build healing in our community.”

 James believes he laid the ground work for the office, and now he plans to nourish the community after being named President and CEO of Dare to Care. “I’m excited! I can’t tell you enough how excited I am about Dare to Care Food Bank.  It’s an incredible organization. Dare to Care’s mission is to led the community feed the hungry and ending the cycle of need.”

 James has found his mission in life.   “I’m walking in my purpose.  I get excited every morning when I wake up and I get to live out my dream in terms of helping people.”

Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherlene@sherleneshanklin.com or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

To see the story, click the link https://www.whas11.com/article/news/community/vincent-james-sr-dare-to-care-elim-baptist-church-chief-community-building/417-53813831-6c28-4de9-8933-38f1551bb636

The VIPP Report: Moments that Matter with Huanmei Wang

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By Sherlene Shanklin

In today’s Moments that Matter, As we come to the close of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month we have learned a lot about culture, lifestyle and to learn more about our neighbors.  I spoke to a JCPS teacher who helps make a child’s transition a little smoother.

Let me to introduce you to Huanmei Wang.  She was born in China. Serving as an ESL teacher at Camp Taylor Elementary. 
She says “I help ESL student to learn English. ESL stands for English as a second language.”

Ms. Wang as students call her explains her role and importance.  She says many of the students have never been to school until they get to her.
Wang says “This program is designed especially for those who like speak a language other than English at home. A lot of students come from foreign countries and a lot of people are even refugees.”

She’s a support system for many. She tells a story of a young child born in the U.S. that went back to her country so her grandmother could care for her while her parents worked. Upon her return, Ms. Wang was an link to home. She says “That person came, she wouldn’t talk to anybody else except for me because maybe I talk maybe in her language. They say this student cant talk.  Yes, she can just with me. I think I am a support for her. A person she can come too.”

Today, that young lady is a sophomore in college.  Ms. Wang meets each student where they are working to get them caught up with their peers. 
So when did Ms. Wang know she wanted to be a teacher? “That’s very funny (laughing) I  had a dream actually. Wang you are a kindergarten teacher in that local school. I said oh really you know. I think I was meant to be a teacher.”
She literally followed her dreams.  She beams so much pride and a sense of accomplishment when they learn.  “When you see a student say something you teach you feel really excited aww we got it. We got it.”

Ms. Wang wanted to give fellow educators some advice on non-verbal communication. She says to try and greet them with a smile.  It will go a long way.  She goes on to say “God created everybody in different purposes maybe was made for that purpose.  If kids like you, they will be willing to learn.”         

►Contact Moments that Matter’s Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@whas11.com or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. 

To see the story click the link > https://www.whas11.com/article/news/community/moments-that-matter/jcps-esl-teacher-helps-students-cross-language-barrier/417-bdca5638-a73e-4c24-a278-6b4b66478253

The VIPP Report: DCorey Johnson’s rendition of the National Anthem is opening doors for the young star

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The story and video that went viral of a nine-year old Louisville sensation with a special gift

By Sherlene M. Shanklin

Louisville, Kentucky

For the last few weeks, my story of DCorey (DC) Johnson has been truly an unbelievable journey.  I was tagged on Facebook by several friends and family members because I do a segment for WHAS11 Television, ABC Affiliate in Louisville called The411.  I highlight people and organizations who you normally don’t see on a newscast until I started doing it.  I currently, have a new segment called “Your Story”. I thought he could talk to me about all of the attention he has received.

I watched the video of DCorey multiple times around 11:00 pm one night.  Instead of going to bed I reached out to the Jefferson County Public Schools, (JCPS) public information office to see if I could get permission to go into Bates Elementary School to speak to the student and his parents. 

The first story on DCorey Johnson before the world met this young superstar with a big voice. Sherlene Shanklin’s story #SherlenesStory

I had to move quick because I knew this child had a gift and I wanted to be the first to speak to him.  I got the interview setup and was assigned a photojournalist to assist me with the story. 

Everyone that knows me, know that I’m not a morning person. So, I had a hard time going to sleep.  So, as I laid there watching the clock afraid that I would oversleep for the interview.  I starting thinking about different scenarios.  What if the third grader is actually shy and I can’t get him to talk.  So, I considered a few alternatives just in case. 

Well, I hate that I worried about it because there was no need to worry about this rising star what so ever.  DCorey was full of personality and at one point I just let the nine year old go.  He laughed, talked and one thing we all know children speak is the truth.  He had no problem explaining to me who did and did not help him on his musical journey. 

DCorey Johnson Photo by Sherlene Shanklin

DCorey gave me so much material to work with. I actually had enough for multiple stories.  I was wrapping up the interview, I promised to follow the third  grader on his journey. 

As I drove home from the interview, I envisioned how the story would look and sound.  Because of COVID-19 restrictions my photographer and I work from our homes but we had already discussed a game plan. 

Once I handed off the approved script, I voiced the package. I sent it Phillip for editing.  I felt great about the wording, my pacing and the interview itself. I knew Phillip would make it come to life.

Just a few hours later, we were ready for air.  When the story aired on WHAS11, ABC Louisville my phone starting ringing from text messages, social media messages and people wanting to congratulate me on the story.  I knew if I was getting that type of response I could only imagine what the Johnson family was getting. 

I have a company that host events and someone texted me asking, “Don’t you remember in your KY Derby event that DCorey played young Michael Jackson in the tribute?”  I remembered the amazing talent and I remember that a child received a standing ovation but I had not put two and two together. 

As soon as I got a link to my story, I started to circulate.  Within a couple of hours ABC contacted me and wanted to know who was this gifted child?  Because I worked for an ABC affiliate tv stations all over the country were running my story. I have gotten calls Tennessee to Washington. The network used my video and script and made stories that aired on almost every show from World News Tonight to GMA3.  I have received some of the craziest calls from professional sports venues to large scale prominent productions wanting me to help get in touch with the child’s parents. 

I’m in contact with his mother and we touch base every few days so I can give her the messages and she shares with me what is happening behind the scenes.  I hang up somedays saying “I’m witnessing the makings of a future star.”  I cant wait to share more on DCorey. 

I’ve provided a link of my story for you to review.  Kentucky student singing National Anthem on PA system goes viral | whas11.com

You will be amazed if you watch other stations around the world use my wording and approach to the story.  As a journalist and storyteller to see your work hit numerous media outlets and they keep its original form for three weeks is a testament to myself and Phillip’s work.  Its hard to change when it was done so beautifully the first time. 

Checkout some of my other stories.  I think you will like my style and approach to storytelling.  Articles by Sherlene M Shanklin | WHAS-TV (Louisville, KY) Journalist | Muck Rack

Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherlene@sherleneshanklin.com or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

The VIPP Report: Metro Disability Coalition announces their Breaking Barriers Spotlight Award honorees

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dshull

       METRO DISABILITY COALITION THANK THEIR UNSUNG HEROES AT AN AWARDS CEREMONY

(Louisville, KY) The Metro Disability Coalition invites you to attend their 21st Annual Breaking Barriers Spotlight Awards on Monday, March 16th from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at the Rudd Heart & Lung Center located at 201 Abraham Flexner Way.

There will be a reception prior to the ceremony for special guests, honorees and those participating in the program.   This year’s theme is Working Toward a Fully Accessible Community for All Disabled Individuals.

MDCThe awards ceremony will honor community unsung heroes and community leaders in their various fields from service workers, educators to youth who go above and beyond the call of duty to assist those in need. Several Jefferson County Public Schools, (JCPS) students and faculty will be honored.

Here’s a list of this year’s Breaking Barriers Spotlight Award honorees:

Ms. BJ Levis

Lifetime Achievement Award

Nina Mosely

Merit Award

Dia Erpenbeck

Cedric Jones

Jenny Tyree

Sonora Crosby

Jodi Grajek

Cheikh El Moustapha

Certificate of Merit

United Auto Workers Ramp Building Program

Community Honoree

Breaking Barriers Spotlight Student & Teacher Awards recipients: 

Students

Ava Baker

Goldsmith Elementary

Makenzie Harman

Georia Chaffie Tapp

Gabrielle Runyon

duPont Manual High School

Teachers

Pamela St. John

ECE Teacher

Lincoln Elementary

Performing Arts School

Eileen Foote

Implementation Coach

Crosby Middle School

Christina Delk

Itinerant Teacher

Marion C. Moore High School

Our guest speaker will be Rev. Corrie Shull, Senior Pastor of the Burnett Avenue Baptist Church.  He also serves as the sixth district board member for the Jefferson County Public Schools Board of Education.  Under his leadership at Burnett Ave, the congregation has experienced tremendous growth through the addition of hundreds of families into church membership, creating relevant ministries, implementing twenty-first century technology and embracing new and dynamic ways of engaging people from all walks of life for the purpose of life transformation.

A proponent of education, Rev. Shull holds degrees from Fisk University and Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary and works as an adjunct professor for Louisville area colleges.

Some our special guests will be Michelle Dillard, Assistant Superintendent, JCPS; Metro Council President David James and Metro Councilwoman Barbara Sexton-Smith.

We would like to thank the following that support the Metro Disability Coalition not only for this event but support us throughout the year: University of Louisville Health, Bates Memorial Disability Ministry.

Bridgehaven, The Center for Accessible Living, Council on Developmental Disabilities, Dayspring, God’s Gatekeepers St Stephen Youth Ushers, Independence Seekers, Kentuckians for Single Payer Healthcare. KIPDA, Louisville Metro Human Relations Commission. NAMI, Paralyzed Veterans of America and Superior Van & Mobility.

For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Marcellus Mayes by calling 502-774-8993 or Ronel McCombs at 502-836-1245

If you would like to setup an interview with a member of the Metro Disability Coalition for the 21st Annual Breaking Barriers Spotlight Awards held on Monday, March 16th at the Rudd Heart & Lung Center please contact VIPP Communications at  info@vippcommunications.com.

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The Metro Disability Coalition is an organization of individuals and agencies in Louisville, KY who advocate for those with disabilities to have a better quality of life.  The 501c (3) organization was established in 2001.

Metro Disability Coalition Board Members

Marcellus Mayes, Bobbie James, Cheryl Medley, Ronel McCombs, Chuck Rogers, Beverly Peterson, Elaine Weisbard, Ira Grupper, Ronnie White, Teddy Young, Antonio Wickliffe, Manetta Lemkheitir, Charlie Sims, Grace Smith, Bill Wright and Goldina Lofton

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The VIPP Report: Metro Disability Coalition celebrates 20 years in Louisville

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MDC

By honoring those who “Break Barriers” in their annual celebration

(Louisville, KY) The Metro Disability Coalition invites you to attend their 20th Annual Breaking Barriers Spotlight Awards on Monday, March 18th from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at the Our Lady of Sorrows, 770 Eastern Parkway in the bingo hall facility.  There will be a reception prior to the ceremony at 5:00 pm for special guests, honorees and those participating in the program.

The awards ceremony will honor community unsung heroes and community leaders in their various fields from service workers, educators to youth who go above and beyond the call of duty to assist those in need. Several Jefferson County Public Schools, (JCPS) students and faculty will be honored.

Here’s a list of our recipients: 

Elementary Student: D’Angelina McMillan – Engelhard Elementary

Elementary Educator: Mary “Katie” Telek – Heuser Hearing & Language Academy

Middle School Student: Amosi Bilombele – Newcomer Academy

Middle School Educator: Krista Riley – Western Middle School for the Arts

High School Student: Ella Robinson – duPont Manual High School

High School Educator: Lauren Niemann – Fern Creek High School

Merit Award – Donna Fox

Our Lifetime Achievement Award recipient will be Ms. Grace Smith.

The Metro Disability Coalition is an organization of individuals and agencies in Louisville, KY who advocate for those with disabilities to have a better quality of life.  The 501c (3) organization was established in 2001.

Our guest speaker this year is Ms. Pamala Bryant.   In 2007, while attending New York University, Pamala was diagnosed with SLE-Systemic Lupus Erythematosis.  The illness caused her body to attack her lungs, joints and heart.  In spite of multiple procedures and surgeries, she was able to graduate.  Currently, she works in higher education.  She loves to help students successfully by admitted into college.  When she’s not working or acting in local plays she’s volunteering with various organizations in the community.  Bryant says she’s excited for the opportunity to encourage others living with a disability.”

In 2018, former University of Louisville football standout and entrepreneur Herb Henry was the keynote speaker and in 2017, Marques Maybin, ESPN Louisville radio show host and former University of Louisville basketball star inspired the guests.

For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Marcellus Mayes by calling 502-774-8993 or Ronel McCombs at 502-836-1245

If you would like to setup an interview with a member of the Metro Disability Coalition for the 20th Annual Breaking Barriers Spotlight Awards held on Monday, March 18th at the Our Lady of Sorrows-Bingo Hall please contact VIPP Communications at 502-582-7716 or by email at info@vippcommunications.com.

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The VIPP Report: An act of kindness can help two JCPS students go on a “Back to School” shopping spree

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AFM

Anticipation begins to grow as students prepare to head back to school on August 15th.  Some have anxiety because their parents have difficulties supporting their households.  Purchasing anything extra right now puts a strain on their expenses.  Do you know a Jefferson County Public School high school senior that continues to give back and considered a role model amongst their peers, family and friends even when they have no idea what the future holds for them and their family?

AFM Threads and the Stamina “AOK” Foundation team up to assist some students with their back to school needs.  We are looking for two lucky high school seniors who would like the opportunity to receive clothing for school and prom apparel valued at $1,000 for their act(s) of kindness.

Seniors need to submit a letter and/or video 2 minutes or less explaining how they give back through community service.  A committee will read the entries and determine the winners.  Submit entries to: afmforher@gmail.com.  The deadline is August 13, 2018 at 11:59 pm.

Winners of the contest will receive: two outfits for back to school, prom attire, lunch with Miss Kentucky and a mentor session with Stamina Foundation Founder Derek Anderson.

If you know a high school senior that needs a little support, please have them submit an essay on giving back.  We would also like for them also to choose a non-profit to volunteer with during the school year.

If you would like to have the organizers of the Back to School Initiative on your program and/or to have youth models showing viewers the latest trends please contact VIPP Communications for availability by calling 502.295.0435 or email us at  info@vippcommunications.com.

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VIPP Communications is a full service public relations, event management and production firm headquartered in Louisville, KY with clients and/or projects all over the U.S. We can create, maintain and sustain your brand.  Our clientele range from small businesses, non-profits, corporate leaders, entertainment to current and retired professional athletes.  Contact one of our team members to see if we can assist you at info at vippcommunications dot com.  

Follow us on social media.  Twitter: @vippcomm/Instagram & Facebook: @vippcommunications

 

The VIPP Report: Owner of Superchefs challenges community to feed a JCPS student

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CHEF DARNELL FERGUSON TAKING ON THE FOOD CHALLENGE ONE CITY AT A TIME

Darnell Superchef Ferguson(Louisville, KY) Darnell “Superchef” Ferguson learned that hunger doesn’t take a day off.  He had the opportunity to talk to the team of “Blessings in a Backpack” and they shared with him the staggering number of elementary children that need assistance when it comes to food, particularly on weekends within Jefferson County.

They serve 4,700 children at 43 schools in the Louisville Metro Area.  That’s impressive but that’s only 7% of the 64,000 who qualify.

Superchef is ready to take on the challenge and he will be calling on the community to help.  It takes approximately $100 to feed one child during a 38-week school year which does not include the summer break.

Darnell says “Can you imagine sitting at home on the weekend and not having enough food and you are counting down the time until you can get breakfast on Monday morning?  It’s hard and sad to imagine.  I know we as a community can make a difference in the lives of these children and I’m willing to lead the way.  We are not going to have a start date because these children needed food yesterday.”

To setup an interview with Darnell “Super Chef” Ferguson or if you would like to know how you can help with his challenge to help us feed one school at time, please contact us at please contact VIPP Communications at 502-295-0435 or by email at info@vippcommunications.com.

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Super Chefs located at 1702 Bardstown Road.  To reserve your lunch delivery service, you can call 502-409-8103 or by going to www.eatsuperchefs.com/.

VIPP Communications is a full service public relations, event management and production firm headquartered in Louisville, KY with clients and/or projects all over the U.S. We can create, maintain and sustain your brand.  Our clientele range from small businesses, non-profits, corporate leaders, entertainment to current and retired professional athletes.  Contact one of our team members to see if we can assist you at info at vippcommunications dot com. 

The VIPP Report: Metro Disability Coalition continues to “Break Barriers” in the community

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MDC

In their annual celebration they will recognize supporters & “shine” a spotlight on some unsung heroes

 (Louisville, KY) The Metro Disability Coalition invites you to attend their 18th Annual Breaking Barriers Spotlight Awards on Monday, March 19th from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at the Rudd Heart and Lung Center, 201 Abraham Flexner Way. There will be a reception at 5:00 pm to meet honorees and special guests.

The awards ceremony will honor community service workers, educators and youth who go above and beyond the call of duty to assist those in need. The Jefferson County Public Schools, (JCPS) student and teacher award winners are:

Elementary School Student: Paul Clark       Elementary School Teacher: Ms. Deanna LeFan

Middle School Student: Zackary Estridge    Middle School Teacher: Ms. Joan Allen

High School Student: Katherine Teston        High School Teacher: Ms. Melanie Guillerman

This year’s Lifetime Achievement Award recipient is Billy Wright and the Merit Award will be presented to Josiah Johnson.

There will also be a presentation for Certificate of Merit and Image Award Certificate winners.

The Certificate of Merit winners are:  Linda Irvin, Ed Price, Michael White

Image Award Certificate winners are:  Eric French, Vitalis Lanshima, Tracey Thompson

This year’s keynote speaker will be Herb Henry.  The owner of Competitors Edge Enterprise, a sports apparel company and current member of the Louisville Spokes & Spires, a local wheelchair basketball team.  The former University of Louisville football player was shot twice in 1992 at the age of 18 at a party. One bullet hit near his lung and the other near his spine, paralyzing Henry.  It took Henry many years to adjust and find his next calling.  He put the football down and picked up a basketball and started to play wheelchair basketball.  Motivating himself to move forward while inspiring many who still wanted to compete and had that competitor’s edge.

The Metro Disability Coalition is an organization of individuals and agencies in Louisville, KY who advocate for those with disabilities to have a better quality of life.  The 501c (3) organization was established in 2001.

In 2017, at the 17th annual awards ceremony Marques Maybin, ESPN Louisville radio show host and former University of Louisville basketball star was their keynote speaker.

For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Marcellus Mayes by calling 502-774-8993 or Ronel McCombs at 502-836-1245

If you would like to setup an interview with a member of the Metro Disability Coalition and/or our keynote speaker for the 18th Annual Breaking Barriers Spotlight Awards held on Monday, March 19th at the Rudd Heart and Lung Center please contact VIPP Communications at 502-582-7716 or by email at info@vippcommunications.com.

The VIPP Report: Free backpack and supply giveaway announced just in time for back to school

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WAM!BacktoSchool

(Louisville, KY) Jefferson County Public Schools, (JCPS) are starting to prepare for the start of a new year.  It’s time to get students ready.  Do you need assistance with school supplies? Withers Academy of Music, (WAM!) will host a Back to School Drive on Saturday, August 12th in the 400 block of East Oak Street from 12:00pm to 4:00pm.

The back pack and school supply giveaway is free to area youth.  Come out and enjoy free food, a live DJ thanks to D. Mawl Vibes and interactive booths.  This year’s goal is to give away approximately 400 backpacks with supplies.

This will be a fun and safe environment for the family to enjoy.  WAM! organizers will block streets from Jackson to Preston so kids can just be kids, running around and having fun while parents work to make sure their child can compete with their peers by having the necessary supplies essential to be successful in the classroom.

Marcus Withers of WAM! says “We want to make sure that youth in our community start fresh, rejuvenated and prepared for the school year.  Without the proper supplies, some students fall behind very quickly, get discouraged and never seem to get caught up.  I believe if you give children a fish, you nourish them for a day.  You teach them to fish and you provide them with life skills that nourish them for life. On August 12th, the youth will begin to fish as we instill in them the importance of education, community pride and volunteerism.”

This event would not be possible without the support of the following:  Big Brothers Big Sisters, 400 Inc., D. Mawl Vibes, Nimbus, Savoy Fitness and the countless volunteers and supporters.  A special thank you to former University of Louisville Basketball star and current ESPN 93.9 on air personality Marques Maybin for serving as this year’s spokesman.

We want youth and their parents/guardians to walk away from our event feeling good about their backpacks and all of the supplies. If you would like to donate to WAM! please contact them by calling 502-414-4009.  To learn more about the Withers Academy of Music or how you can volunteer go to www.twame.org.

We would like for you to please announce and/or if you would like to setup an interview with a member of WAM please contact VIPP Communications at interviewrequest@vippcommunications.com or by calling 502-295-0435.

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WAM! is a nonprofit organization whose strategic focus is to develop self-actualized youth by improving access to quality out-of-school time programming for pre-teens and teenagers labeled as vulnerable, at-risk, or high-risk.   We seek to engage, empower and inspire youth ages 9-18 to enjoy, expand, experience and participate in the world of music.   Our evidenced based after school academy and summer cultural exploration camp activities include music appreciation, music production & entertainment, sound production, social media management, art & design and mix academy.

 

 

The VIPP Report: Louisville leaders step up to help keep youth safe this summer

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PRESS CONFERENCE ADVISORY

May 24, 2017

With the recent acts of violence in the community and today being the last day of school for Jefferson County Public School students, parents and guardians are scrambling to find events and activities for youth to attend.

On Thursday, May 25th at 10:00 am at Old Male High School, 911 S. Brook Street community and faith-based leaders will announce an event taking place this weekend. Leaders are buying up tickets to give to organizations and church groups to make sure youth have something safe to do on Memorial Day weekend.

The chaperoned event will be fun safe and will applaud the youth who are doing what their families, schools and community ask of them.

In conjunction with the announcement WLOU/104.7FM will do a marathon giveaway Thursday and Friday to make sure youth who want to attend that do not have the money will get to enjoy their first weekend on summer break.

Please join us for details of the event, the former University of Kentucky and University of Louisville players who’ve agreed to be a part of Saturday’s event and the community leaders who are stepping up to make sure our children have a place where they can be kids and not worry about their safety.

Representatives from WLOU, 104.7FM, church leaders and various community leaders will all be on hand for the media briefing to show their support. (Please see attached-All participating organizations involved in Saturday’s event)

If you have any questions, please contact Barry Tilford at 502-650-3660.
A full press release will be distributed at the conclusion of the announcement. For media inquiries please contact VIPP Communications at 502-582-7716 or by email at info@vippcommunications.com.

PRESS CONFERENCE DETAILS:  Thursday, May 25th 10:00 am Old Male High School, 911 S. Brook Street Contact: Barry Tilford, 502-650-3660

 

The VIPP Report: Summer Olympics maybe over for the athletes but the eLearn Olympic scholars prepare for medal ceremony and celebration

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elearn-LOGO-REVISEDLouisville Central Community Centers (LCCC) will host their Summer eLearn Olympics celebration at 11am on Saturday, September 24, 2016 to recognize nearly 80 medalists and their supporters. Our scholars will be presented with gold, silver or bronze medals and other prizes for their achievements using Study Island, a technology-based system that supports the local school district’s Every 1 Learns initiative. Schools and community organizations who support student achievement will also be recognized. Currently, there’s 1,300 participants in the eLearn Olympics program.

eLearn Olympics was created in 2013 by LCCC as an initiative to celebrate academic achievements of students grades K-12. LCCC’s President, Kevin Fields says “It’s exciting that at this of year everyone is in the Olympic spirit. We cheered on all of the Team USA but we kept a close eye on 2-time Olympic Gold Medalist Angel McCoughtry. The former University of Louisville star and WNBA all-star is a great supporter of the program and visits our youth when she’s in Louisville to motivate the eLearn Olympic team.”

In eLearn Olympics, students win prizes and gain public distinction for completing online, skill-building lessons in Study Island. This program is geared toward helping students achieve proficiency in their common-core academic skill areas that are part of Kentucky Department of Education curriculum standards. eLearn Olympics offers annual recognition for participation and achievement in extracurricular academic programs.

A complete list of our event’s honorees is attached. JCPS Diversity Coordinator Delquan Dorsey, JCPS Board Member Diane Porter, Gheens Foundation CEO Barry Allen and representatives of the Angel McCoughtry Dream Foundation will join LCCC in honoring these students and their families. The public is invited to attend the celebration on Saturday, September 24, from 11:00-12:00 am at Old Walnut Street, 1300 W Muhammad Ali Blvd (40203), in the Atrium Room.

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About Louisville Central Community Centers

LCCC is headquartered in Louisville, KY, at 13th Street and West Muhammad Ali Boulevard, in the Russell neighborhood. LCCC is a 501c(3), private, non-profit community-based organization that is governed by an independent, volunteer Board of Directors. LCCC offers a variety of programs and services in support of children and families. Early childhood education, youth development, arts education and other after school programs, employment services and job training for adults, money management and home ownership are just some of the services provided. Sam Watkins, Jr. is the president and CEO of LCCC.

About eLearn Olympics

Founded by LCCC with support from the Gheens Foundation, JCPS and other sponsors, eLearn Olympics is a set of academic competition events that incentivize and reward student achievement in areas of reading, mathematics, science & social studies. Now with over 1400 enrolled members, eLearn Olympic sparks a spirit of pride among students, parents, schools and community-based learning places by providing opportunities for educational competition, academic skill development and public recognition. Students can earn public distinction as gold, silver or bronze medalists in a variety of academic performance categories. For more information visit http://www.elearnolympics.com or call (502) 583-8821.

Watkins poses with Olympian Medalist

 

 

 

The VIPP Report: Students receive medals and prizes for the participation in eLearn Olympics

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elearn-LOGO-REVISED

Louisville, Kentucky (May 13, 2016)—Louisville Central Community Centers (LCCC) will host their Spring eLearn Olympics celebration at 11am on Saturday, May 14, 2016 to recognize nearly 80 medalists and their supporters. Students will be presented with gold, silver or bronze medals and other prizes for their achievements using Study Island, a technology-based system that supports the local school district’s Every 1 Learns initiative. Schools and community organizations who support student achievement will also be recognized. Currently, there’s 1,400 participants in the eLearn Olympics program.

eLearn Olympics was created in 2013 by LCCC as an initiative to celebrate academic achievements of students grades K-12. LCCC’s Senior Vice President, Kevin Fields, says as we approach the 2016 Olympics in Reno we want to motivate our youth not only in athletics but in academics. As we cheer on Olympian Angel McCoughtry who is a great supporter of our initiative we want to motivate our scholars to achieve at their ultimate potential and to use Study Island throughout their summer break.”

In eLearn Olympics, students win prizes and gain public distinction for completing online, skill-building lessons in Study Island. This program is geared toward helping students achieve proficiency in their common-core academic skill areas that are part of Kentucky Department of Education curriculum standards. eLearn Olympics offers annual recognition for participation and achievement in extracurricular academic programs.

You can see a complete list of our event’s honorees below. JCPS Director of Volunteer Talent Center Dr. Allene Gold, JCPS Board Member Diane Porter, Gheens Foundation CEO Barry Allen and representatives of the Angel McCoughtry Dream Foundation will join LCCC in honoring these students and their families. The public is invited to attend the celebration on May 14, from 11:00-12:00 am at Old Walnut Street, 1300 W Muhammad Ali Blvd (40203), in the Atrium Room.

We will also recognize the top three schools that had the most medalists during the Spring competition.   Price Elementary with 11 medalists, Western Middle School with 10 medalists and there’s a four-way tie with Johnson Traditional, Myers Middle, Meyzeek Middle and Newburg Middle Schools all having five medalists.

There will be three community centers acknowledged during the program. That’s Lighthouse Promise with 20 Spring medalists, Big Brothers Big Sisters with four medalists and Louisville Central Community Centers with a total of three medalists.

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About Louisville Central Community Centers

LCCC is headquartered in Louisville, KY, at 13th Street and West Muhammad Ali Boulevard, in the Russell neighborhood. LCCC is a 501c(3), private, non-profit community-based organization that is governed by an independent, volunteer Board of Directors. LCCC offers a variety of programs and services in support of children and families. Early childhood education, youth development, arts education and other after school programs, employment services and job training for adults, money management and home ownership are just some of the services provided. Sam Watkins, Jr. is the president and CEO of LCCC.

About eLearn Olympics

Founded by LCCC with support from the Gheens Foundation, JCPS and other sponsors, eLearn Olympics is a set of academic competition events that incentivize and reward student achievement in areas of reading, mathematics, science & social studies. Now with over 1400 enrolled members, eLearn Olympic sparks a spirit of pride among students, parents, schools and community-based learning places by providing opportunities for educational competition, academic skill development and public recognition. Students can earn public distinction as gold, silver or bronze medalists in a variety of academic performance categories. For more information visit http://www.elearnolympics.com or call (502) 583-8821.

If you have a story idea, send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com.  You can follow us one Twitter @thevippreport @vippcomm.  #thevippreport #vippcommunications

Watkins poses with Olympian Medalist

Reading medalists

Gold medalists

Ashton Tunstull (Eisenhower Elementary)

Asia Tunstull (Eisenhower Elementary)

Treasure Wales (Johnson Traditional Middle)

Ezell Everett (Johnson Traditional Middle)

Marcus Griffin (Johnson Traditional Middle)

Silver medalists

LaMichael Arnold (King Elementary)

Jaelyn Pruitt (Crums Lane Elementary)

Gabrielle McDonald (Price Elementary)

Stephan Smith (Crums Lane Elementary)

Jacobi Jones (Crums Lane Elementary)

Perrion Hughes (Wheatley Elementary)

Jose Ortiz (Myers Middle)

Gavin Sams (Meyzeek Middle)

Bronze medalists

Ariyauna Ridgeway (Western Middle)

Ndeye Cisse (Noe Middle)

Warren King (Meyzeek Middle)

Hawa Simagan (Price Elementary)

Ameena Shareef (King Elementary)

Hugo Ramosleon (Myers Middle)

Tyquan Starks (Western Middle)

Deasia Dennis (Carter Elementary)

Philippine Simagan (Price Elementary)

Elean Meridaperez (Myers Middle)

Thomas Bryant (Myers Middle)

Andrea Trejo (Myers Middle)

Detrick Dyer (Meyzeek Middle)

Malachi Tilford (Meyzeek Middle)

Joseph Noah (Western Middle)

Ciara Higgins (Auburndale Elementary)

Joseph Foster (Noe Middle)

Skyla Todd (Price Elementary)

Mackayla Andrews (Noe Middle)

Ameera Delouvpre (Farmer Elementary)

Daquan Williams (Western Middle)

Joyceonna Grant (Newburg Middle)

Khia Briscoe (Crosby Middle)

Jaalyne Everett (Western Middle)

Kieron McMurry (Moore Traditional)

 

Math medalists

Gold medalists

Natalya Pitts (Price Elementary)

Ameera Delouvpre (Farmer Elementary)

Jayla Miles (Young Elementary)

Silver medalists

Seannae Williams (Field Elementary)

Breanna Carson (Western Middle)

Chloe Cary (Price Elementary)

Dominiquic Martin (Newburg Middle)

Donnavon Grant (Luhr Elementary)

Philippine Simagan (Price Elementary)

Elijah Todd (Newburg Middle)

Jayla Todd (Price Elementary)

Ibrahim Delouvpre (Newburg Middle)

Bronze medalists

Jayden   Harris (Wilkerson Elementary)

Jayden   Todd (Price Elementary)

Amari    Smith (Newburg Middle)

Treasure Murray (Western Middle)

Jordyn Pennebaker (Johnson Traditional)

Alexis Bryant (Western Middle)

Ashton Tunstull (Eisenhower Elementary)

MaKiya  West (Price Elementary)

Asia Tunstull (Eisenhower Elementary)

Derica Johnson (Johnson Traditional)

Ryane Holmes (Chancey Elementary)

Zechariah Mimms (Hartstern Elementary)

Aniya Lawhorn (Conway Middle)

Alisia Crawford (Robert Frost Six Grade Academy)

Brooklyn Guy (Western Middle)

Davione Campbell (Sanders Elementary)

Kaleah Sheffield (Meyzeek Middle)

Kieron McMurry (Moore Traditional)

Timari Young (Western Middle)

Fanta Simagan (Price Elementary)