The VIPP Report: Two former NBA stars know all too well that their hometown of Louisville need to have a game plan

Louisville natives Allan Houston and Derek Anderson

By Sherlene M. Shanklin

(Louisville, KY) I’ve been working behind the scenes for many months in regards to the Breonna Taylor case. There’s many journalists like myself who have researched, combed through paperwork and filed ORRs to uncover much of what you are hearing about today publicly.

I have reached out to so many people to help explain, give insight and to voice their concerns.

I posted a photo that simply said: “The World Is Watching Louisville” #breonnataylor #sherlenesstory. Then I went right back to work preparing for the Jefferson County Grand Jury and the Kentucky Attorney General’s decision and announcement.

I noticed a day later, that my phone’s alert system was putting in the work so I opened it to notice that Derek Anderson had shared my message. Since the AG’s decision many are just trying to wrap their minds around what happened.

On March 13th, Breonna Taylor lost her life. On, September 23rd, 195 days since her death and 119 days of protesting in the City of Louisville and sounding counties in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. There’s still so many more questions than answers.

Derek Anderson and Allan Houston voiced their concern and what needed to be done to try and heal the community they call ‘home’. Here’s what the two Louisville natives and former NBA stars shared on my social media post.

Anderson says “It’s some really good people in Louisville and I’m proud to love my city and the people that care about it. And like every city it’s some mislead & negative people who would rather COMPLAIN rather than CHANGE!!! It starts with Government, City Leaders and Officials, Parents & the People!!!!”

Anderson attended Doss High and then later played for the University of Kentucky winning a NCAA championship. He had a great career in the NBA and before retiring he won a championship with the Miami Heat.

Houston says “Praying for My Hometown. There is extreme pain and frustration. We need justice. We need righteousness. We need to uphold the standard of God’s law. We need reconciliation. We must not stop pursuing these!! #breonnataylor

Houston attended Ballard High, played for the Tennessee Volunteers and also had a great basketball career with the New York Knicks. 

How does Louisville move forward?  Give me your thoughts. 

Sherlene M. Shanklin

►Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherleneshanklin@gmail.com or follow her on FacebookTwitter, or Instagram. 

The VIPP Report: Former NBA star, entrepreneur and community activist Derek Anderson announces his AOK All-star weekend

AOKAllstar

The Kentucky Derby is not the only time you can see some of the most recognizable faces in sports and entertainment

(Louisville, KY) Louisville native former NCAA & NBA Champion Derek Anderson is taking his Acts of Kindness, (AOK) to another level with his inaugural AOK All-Star Weekend.

Save the dates of July 20th and 21st for a weekend of fun, celebration and of course acts of kindness as the star continues to perform off the court just like he did on it with a slam dunk of opportunities for the entire community to enjoy.

It all takes place in Anderson’s hometown of Louisville, Kentucky as he celebrates his birthday with family and friends.  On Saturday, July 20th it’s the AOK Gala and then on Sunday, July 21st there’s a free picnic and back to school supply giveaway.  Both events will be held at the Majestic Arts Center located at 1535 Lytle Street.

Anderson will welcome friends: actor/singer Tyrese and music mogul Master P as his guests.  Additional names will be announced prior to the celebration.

Derek Anderson says, “The weekend’s events will help support the launch of “Program You,” a program designed to enhance the mindset and support the future of tomorrow’s leaders by teaching life skills and providing scholarships through the Stamina Foundation.  The AOK All-Star Weekend is a celebration of life and compassion for the city I hold dear to my heart.  There’s nothing like home. Come out have fun and know that you are helping youth reach their ultimate potential.”

Individual tickets are $50 and couples $75.  You can purchase them at www.StaminaFD.com.  To be a sponsor and/or purchase a table contact us at AOK@staminafd.com.

If you would like to setup an interview Anderson, please contact Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com or by phone at 502-295-0435.

Stamina-Logo

vippnewlogoVIPP 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.  http://vippcommunications.com

The VIPP Report: The Louisville Basketball Investment & Support Group is announced


By Sherlene Shanklin

Groundwork is being laid to help Louisville become NBA ready. NBA to Lou announced Thursday morning that Dan Issel, former NBA and ABA all-star and All-American at the University of Kentucky, will be president of the Louisville Basketball Investment and Support Group. The group created was in 2016 to explore the opportunity to bring an NBA franchise to Louisville.

In a news release, the group announced that more than 20 local investors have contributed a combined $750,000 in startup capital to support the initiative, referred to as “NBA 2 Louisville,” that will help make Louisville and the Commonwealth
of Kentucky NBA-ready. The $750,000 represents the first round of a $3 million private placement memorandum (PPM).

So, the organization’s primary role is to ensure Louisville and Kentucky are ready should there be an opportunity for an NBA expansion franchise or if an existing team expresses interest in relocating.

Is this a good idea or is this just wishful thinking? If you think this could be a reality would you support It?

Follow me on Twitter @sherlenemediapr and @thevippreport as I continue to watch their vision come to life.

If you have a story idea, send it to me at thevippreport@vippcommunications.com.

The VIPP Report: Group of leaders and investors name Dan Issel as president in an effort to get a NBA franchise in Louisville

0554542001415884100_filepicker

So, now I know that former NBA and ABA star and UK star Dan Issel is named president of the group.

The Louisville Basketball Investment and Support Group will collaboratively work to get a NBA franchise to the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

This will be a significant move to get all parties invested in the idea of a NBA team if a new team Is developed or a current one would like to move.

You can also follow me on Twitter @Sherlenemediapr and Facebook @SherleneShanklin.

The VIPP Report: A team of leaders is expected to announce their involvement in bringing a NBA franchise to Louisville

0554542001415884100_filepicker

Special from Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11 Television, ABC Affiliate

With the looming question that many in Kentucky want to know can the state support a National Basketball Association, (NBA) team?  The reason why I’m expanding the discussion from Louisville to the whole Commonwealth is because the players, (people involved) will have connections to both the University of Louisville and the University of Kentucky. I’ve figured out several names of the people involved but It can change and/or be updated by the time the public is made aware of their venture.

Remember, I said that there will be an announcement this week.  We only have a couple of days left in the week so I anticipate something in the next day if not today.  At the time of the announcement we will have the name(s) of the people involved which will create a collaborative team of influential people playing all the positions needed to be a real competitor in the game of having a professional team in Louisville.

Like in the Field of Dreams, we built the KFC Yum! Center so will they come or do they need another arena to make it happen?  We are getting closer to that announcement where the talk will turn into negotiations.  They still have a long way to go but this is now going to be moving forward instead of backwards.

To learn more about Louisville working to get a NBA team read my story below. 

You can follow me on Twitter @Sherlenemediapr and Facebook on my public figure page @SherleneShanklin.  Send your story ideas to sshanklin@whas11.com or thevippreport@vippcommunications.com.

Twitter: @thevippreport @vippcomm

The VIPP Report: Super Hoop Basketball Classic Returns To Louisville

CelebrityAllstar

Event will take place Memorial Day weekend

(Louisville, KY) It’s the return of the Super Hoop High School All-Star Seniors Classic.  In the state where players have the reputation of competitive high flying and raining three-pointers from all over the court.  The region’s top players will match up and to measure their skill set before heading to the respective collegiate teams.

On Saturday, May 27th, old school meets new school at Old Male High School located at 911 S. Brook Street.  Starting at 1:00 p.m. various championship veteran players will coach the future all-stars.

There will be a Doctors of Dunk Contest judged by of course some of the legendary sky walkers in this area.  It’s only right for them to judge the next group of stars entering their tight brotherhood of basketball dominance.  If that’s not enough entertainment.  Back by popular demand is the Celebrity All-Star Peace game.  Area celebrities, current and former professionals will lace them up “4 Peace”.

This is a family friendly event, so we did not forget about our young sports fans.  There will be a peewee contest. All peewee participants will receive two Louisville Bats 2017 season tickets.

This classic has seen some of the best when it comes to fundamentally sound players that’s have elevated their skills to winner NBA and NCAA championships. The urban style of the game is quick, streaky with plenty of flair.

The Super Hoop Classic is proud of its alumni like Miami Heat and University of Kentucky champion Derek Anderson,  Kentucky’s High School Sweet 16 Tournament 1997 MVP and a member of Eastern’s championship team Ashley Olinger;  former International league  player, NCAA coach and current high school assistant coach in South Carolina Cypheus Bunton; Kentucky’s Mr. Basketball , Kentucky Boys State Champion and Super Hoop Slam Dunk Champ Jermaine Brown, Dwayne Morton: NBA second round pick to Golden State in 1994, UofL ‘s all-time leader in three-point field goal percentage and Kentucky Mr. Basketball; Anthony Grundy: played in the NBA and Italian League, collegiately he played on North Carolina State and he was a Super Hoop three-point contest champ.  This is just a of the many success stories and we are excited to see the Class of 2017!

If that’s not enough entertainment.  Back by popular demand is the Celebrity All-Star 4

Peace game.  Local celebrities, current and former professionals will lace them up “4 Peace”.  Some past participants; Dr. Kevin Cosby, Scooter McCrary, Kareem Abdul Jr., the late Troy “Esclade” Jackson, Ukari Figgs, Vince Taylor and celebrity guests like Tela, Aaliyah, Ginuwine, Timberland and DJ Kid Capri.

This will be an entertaining and action-packed game with a NBA feel by having neo-soul, R & B and hip hop music playing during the game.

Throughout the game there will be entertainment from performances from all genres of music to spoken word and performances by some of the city’s hottest dance teams.

Legendary sports announcer and the voice of the Dirt Bowl Cornell Bradley will keep the action going with play by play commentary of the games as well as friendly picking on spectators in the stands.

We invite everyone to come out and enjoy the games, entertainment and activities.

Tickets are only $5.00 per person.  If you have additional information about the game, call Barry Tilford at 502-650-3660.

If you would like to setup an interview, please call VIPP Communications at 502-295-0435 or by email at info@vippcommunications.com.

 

 

The VIPP Report: The Acts of Kindness Gala will honor community leaders and area youth

AOKGala

(Louisville, KY) It’s the 2nd Annual Acts of Kindness (AOK) Gala.  It will be held on Saturday, July 15th at the Kentucky Fair & Expo Center at 8:00 pm.

The gala is a part of the Stamina Foundation, founded by NBA and NCAA champion Derek Anderson.  The foundation was created to empower youth and young adults with the resources and the life skills they need to follow their dreams.  Our first major project is to open the Stamina Academy.  The purpose of the academy is to teach skills to youth both in and out of the school system with the goal of bringing this generation back to life’s basic skills; manners, being respectful to others, self-confidence, self-motivation, and self-education.  The Stamina Foundation is excited to announce that their foundation that demonstrates doing the right thing and volunteerism will honor community leaders and area students for a second year.

The purpose of the AOK Gala is to introduce guest to the academy and how to get those doors open. Also, during the evening you will get to enjoy inspirational stories of this year’s honorees.  Those names will be released the week of the gala.

Derek Anderson says “I want to help the next generation develop mental training which is a vital life skill component.  My goal is to create more leaders and less followers.  I want them to be able to have the will power to standup for what’s right.  In turn, it becomes infectious and others will follow suit. Let’s SHOW them how GREAT they can become and to let them know that “Everything will be AOK”.

The black tie optional event will be July 15th with a “Meet & Greet” at 7:00 pm and Dinner at 8:00 pm.  Single tickets are $150 and couple tickets are $250. To purchase tickets and/or donate go to www.staminafd.com.

If you would like to setup an interview (in-studio/by phone) with Derek Anderson Sr. please contact Sherlene Shanklin, VIPP Communications at 502-295-0435 or by email at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com.

###

 

 

 

 

The VIPP Report: Is Louisville back in the NBA conversation? Will they be on this map soon?

Special Report from Sherlene Shanklin with WHAS11 in Louisville (ABC Affiliate)

The411 with Sherlene Shanklin:  There’s a buzz once again that Louisville maybe in the running for a NBA team.  I’ve been following this story since the inception of the possibility.  Several years ago, it sounded far-fetched but today the tone sounds a little more positive.  I spoke to several people and they say it’s possible but all of the planets have to be aligned for it to happen.  The first concern is…where will they play?  Can the KFC Yum! Center accommodate both the Louisville Cardinals men and women’s basketball teams, special events and the NBA?

Can we afford the ticket prices on a regular basis to sustain the league.  The average ticket is $97.00 and could go into several hundred for premium seats.  There’s a total of 82 games, which will likely be somewhere around 41 home games in a NBA season plus the playoffs.

Louisville would get help from area cities that do not have a professional team, such as Cincinnati and Nashville.

So, is it possible?   I know that Junior Bridgeman and Grant Hill were working on a possible deal.  Is it Louisville? I guess we will have to see.

Give me your thoughts.  If you have a story idea, send it to The411@whas11.com.  You can follow me on Twitter @Sherlenemediapr and Instagram @Sherlenemediapro for real-time news and conversation on the following topic.

The411 with Sherlene Shanklin: Is Louisville back in the NBA conversation? Would you support it? Read my story and give me your thoughts! Could we be added to this map?
http://www.whas11.com/…/the411-is-louisville-back…/386457724

0554542001415884100_filepicker

 

 

The VIPP Report: VIPP Communications’ President & CEO receives a prestigious honor at the Acts of Kindness Gala

img_67001
If I’m dreaming please don’t wake me.  I had an unbelievable honor given to me by the Stamina Foundation’s Acts of Kindness Gala.  Former NBA star and a member of the 1996 men’s NCAA championship team for the Kentucky Wildcats Derek Anderson founded the Acts of Kindness movement. It gives people a chance to express their compassion through acts of kindness from simply giving a smile, opening a door to buying lunch for someone.  Many of the things you do today is considered A.O.K.  You don’t brag about it nor desire attention for doing right. People do acts of kindness because it’s the right thing to do.
On Friday, October 14th at the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville nearly 300 people attended the inaugural gala.  If you know me, I don’t know how to sit in one place, I just always need to be doing something.  Anderson had me at table one and I thought that was so thoughtful  but when I’m apart of the event, I like to be in the back in case I need to get up and I don’t like disrupting the room and those around me.  Just before the event began, he gave me a thumbs up to get started. I had no idea what that meant at the time but he was trying to keep an eye on me because I’m the queen of sneaking out of a program.
I had a chance to actually sit down and enjoy the dinner and watch Derek and Ashley Miller honor Darrell Griffith for the Ali & Anderson Commitment To The Community Award and Heather French Henry receive the Muhammad Ali Peace & Kindness Award.
As I just needed to have one maybe two bites of the cheesecake before me, I could hear Derek say “She’s probably going to kill me but I want to recognize one more person.”  I think he said a few more very kind words but I have to be honest that the next 15 minutes were a complete blur.  I remember he said my name and asked me to come to the front but in don’t know how I got to the stage nor what I said.  I just know that he gave me the Derek Anderson Acts of Kindness Award.   I now know what it feels like to win an award like the Emmys and the Academy Awards and the person is speechless.
So, I want to have a do-over and do my speech now.  “I am beyond humbled by the honor and grateful that others acknowledged me for my efforts.  When you’re working, you have your head down and hardly ever notice what you are doing.  I was taught at a young age that kindness is a action and should be given freely without asking for anything in return.  I do things just because they are right.  This award goes to everyone who helped me realize that especially my parents, the late James Shanklin and mom Shirley Shanklin.  My mother says this all the time. “Sherlene you can’t live in this world alone.  You need to learn how to love and give back.  You never know when the shoe will be on the other foot and you are on the receiving end.”
The past few years, I thought I was broken but instead I’m stronger and wiser.  I found strength when I didn’t think I had any.  I’ve pulled off productions, events and projects that no one will ever believe.  I’m so blessed and want to thank Derek Anderson, Ashley Miller and the whole Stamina Foundation organization for giving me this honor.  Thank you!
You can follow me on my journey as I continue to spread Acts of Kindness on Twitter @Sherlenemediapr and Instagram @Sherlenemediapro.
“If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you too can move mountains” 
20161014_235737

The VIPP Report: Former NBA star and Kentucky Wildcat Derek Anderson will recognize individuals who give selflessly through Acts of Kindness

AOK2016

(Louisville, KY) The Stamina Foundation cordially invites you to their inaugural Acts of Kindness (A.O.K.) Gala on Friday, October 14th at the Muhammad Ali Center located at 144 N. 6th Street in the heart of downtown Louisville, KY.  The black tie optional event will begin with a “Meet and Greet” reception at 7:00 p.m. followed by dinner at 8:00 p.m. During the reception guests will have an opportunity to take a tour of the center and its new exhibits named in memory of legendary boxer, humanitarian and Louisville native Muhammad Ali, who died on June 3rd of this year at the age of 74.  Former UK players and other NBA players and coaches will be in attendance for the “Meet and Greet”.

Fellow Louisville native Derek L. Anderson and founder of the Stamina Foundation and A.O.K. understands the importance of giving back to the community.  The NBA and NCAA champion was a great individual basketball player but also knows that working as a team both on and off the court creates positive results. His goal and aspiration is to empower youth and give confidence to pursue their dreams.  The A.O.K. was created to show our youth that being kind is the ONLY way we can be great!

During the gala, Anderson and his Stamina team will recognize a community leader with the Muhammad Ali Award and the Derek L. Anderson Acts of Kindness Award.  Anderson says “Random acts of kindness are not enough, we must begin to create a new culture, where being kind to others is a way of life and expected.  Since launching this initiative it’s taken on a life of its own.  I’m getting calls from all over the world asking how they can help. Very soon we will be able to announce a few programs that will benefit not only the City of Louisville but the state and the region. I want to create a model to be developed all over the world.”

There’s a limited amount of individual tickets still available as well as corporate sponsorships. Go to www.StaminaFD.com to secure your table.  Proceeds benefit the Stamina Foundation which will go to programs and events to benefit youth and the development of Stamina Academy.

Please post and/or announce our event on your community calendars.  If you would like to setup an interview with Derek L. Anderson, please contact VIPP Communications at r by email at sshanklin at vippcommunications dot com.

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

VIPP Communications is your one-stop public relations, marketing, branding, event management, consulting and video production firm headquartered in Louisville, KY.  For inquiries info at vippcommunications dot com.   

a.o.k.

The VIPP Report: Derek Anderson returns to his high school alma mater to host his annual camp

B9315610937Z_1_20141223100043_000_G2K9GBL8M_1-0

(Louisville KY) NBA & NCAA Basketball Champ and Louisville native Derek Anderson will host his Stamina Camp in the gym named in his honor. Anderson’s camp runs from June 21st to the 23rd at Doss High School, 7601 St. Andrews Church Road. It runs from 9 am- 4 pm each day for youth ages 7 to 17.     The three-day camp is $150 per child.

Each participant in the camp will receive, a free t-shirt, wristbands, towels, food and drinks.

Stamina Camp is more than learning the basics of basketball and running drills. Derek says “My camp is about learning life skills, common courtesy, and respect for oneself and for others, while becoming the best basketball player they can be. When youth leave the camp they will be better versed on the game both in basketball and in life”.

Anderson is a producer, screenwriter, philanthropist and entrepreneur that played for the University of Kentucky from 1995-1997 playing the guard and small forward positions.   In 1996, Anderson along with the other members of the “Untouchables” won the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship.   Derek was the 13th overall pick to the 1997 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers. He played in the league for 11 years which included another championship.   In 2006, Derek won the NBA Championship with the Miami Heat.

Currently, Anderson speaks to audiences all over the world about his life both on and off the court which explains the title of his book, Stamina.

If you would like to have your child attend the Stamina Camp June 21st-23rd at Doss High School register at http://www.campstamina.com.

If you would like to setup an interview and/or to schedule an appearance with Derek Anderson contact Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com.

StaminaCampFlyer

 

 

 

 

 

The VIPP Report: NBA legend Moses Malone passes away at the age of 60

MosesMalonegettyimages

Special from Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11 Television, ABC affiliate

Three-time NBA MVP Moses Malone dies this morning in a Virginia hotel room.  A detective with the police department says that there was no indication of foul play.  Malone’s body was discovered when he failed to report to a celebrity golf tournament.  NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement “We are stunned and deeply saddened by the passing of Hall of Famer Moses Malone, an NBA legend gone far too soon.”  Malone was one of the most dominant centers ever to play in the NBA and ABA.  With that title it’s obvious that he was named one of NBA’s 50 greatest players.

Malone played for eight teams over the 20 season in the NBA and led the league in rebounding six times.

The 6 ft 10 in. center was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2001 and attended the induction ceremonies for this year’s class in Springfield, Massachusetts this weekend before returning to his hometown of Virginia.  Moses Malone was 60 years old.

If you have a story idea and/or if you would like to share a story about Malone send it to me at The411@whas11.com.  You can follow me on Twitter @Sherlenemediapr and Instagram Sherlenemediapro.

Email inquiries: TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com/Twitter: @VIPPComm

The VIPP Report: Former Cleveland Cavalier Derek Anderson Announces Stamina Basketball Camp

DAStaminaCamp15

 Former NBA and NCAA champion Derek Anderson is proud to announce the return of his Stamina Camp for the third year. “Stamina Camp 15” will be held in Louisville, KY on June 22th-26th at Louisville Collegiate School, 2427 Glenmary Ave. The five-day camp will go from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day where Anderson and his team of coaches will take your child through a series of life skills that can be used both on and off the court.

Anderson says “I like teaching basketball players but I love to help people to be better! At Stamina Camp we all get better at BOTH! I want to teach them how to hold your follow thru, become a great shooter to doing your chores and becoming a responsible person in life. I hope it becomes second nature to them. Sports and Life go hand in hand if you want to WIN in both!”

The Kentucky Wildcat legend is opening the camp to youth from ages 7 to 17. Derek and some of his former teammates will stop by to participate in the camp. He’s also working on a few surprises for the youth. Just to give you an idea, last year, Derek played H.O.R.S.E. and held free throw contests and if the camp’s participant won, Derek would give the winner a pair of signed Jordan Brand shoes.

The camp is only $175, which includes a t-shirt, free lunch, drinks and a career poster.

To register your child, for Derek Anderson’s Stamina Camp 15 go to http://www.staminacamp.com.

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

The VIPP Report: Derek Anderson will host a basketball camp in his hometown of Louisville to help prepare youth to handle themselves both on and off the court

1799000_10203164447174035_729699839_oFormer NBA and NCAA champion Derek Anderson is proud to announce the return of his Stamina Camp for the third year. “Stamina Camp 15” will be held in Louisville, KY on June 22th-26th at Louisville Collegiate School, 2427 Glenmary Ave. The five-day camp will go from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day where Anderson and his team of coaches will take your child through a series of life skills that can be used both on and off the court.

Anderson says “I like teaching basketball players but I love to help people to be better! At Stamina Camp we all get better at BOTH! I want to teach them how to hold your follow thru, become a great shooter to doing your chores and becoming a responsible person in life. I hope it becomes second nature to them. Sports and Life go hand in hand if you want to WIN in both!”

The Kentucky Wildcat legend is opening the camp to youth from ages 7 to 17. Derek and some of his former teammates will stop by to participate in the camp. He’s also working on a few surprises for the youth. Just to give you an idea, last year, Derek played H.O.R.S.E. and held free throw contests and if the camp’s participant won, Derek would give the winner a pair of signed Jordan Brand shoes.

The camp is only $175, which includes a t-shirt, free lunch, drinks and a career poster.

To register your child, for Derek Anderson’s Stamina Camp 15 go to http://www.staminacamp.com. Registration begins on Monday, March 16th.

If you would like to setup an interview with Derek Anderson about his Stamina NBA Skills Camp, appearances involving his Stamina Book Tour and/or to be a sponsor please contact Sherlene Shanklin, Anderson’s publicist at 502-295-0435 or by email at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com.

###

The VIPP Report: Giving back to the Kentucky community during the holidays

SecretSanta

As the holiday season comes to a close, there were “Secret Santas” all over Kentucky and Indiana. I received messages about several people we went out of their way to make sure they assisted their community. Some grew up here while others attended college in the area. The one that received alot attention was the $13,000 gift from a local celebrity that helped pay for layaways at a Walmart. They did not want their name released. Several people come to mind but I will not speculate. I called someone and they told me “Sherlene remember angels fly low”. I didn’t push them after they made that statement.

Former U of L and NFL star Deion Branch made sure people who stayed at the Center for Women and Families had Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. He also donated money to help kickoff their gift card campaign. Branch and his family also travelled to Elizabethtown, KY to assist two families who lost everything in a house fire just before Christmas.

Louisville native C.J. Spillman with the San Francisco 49ers donated holiday baskets to people who needed a little assistance during the holidays. This is not the first time Spillman has helped families during the holidays. One year, his mother and sister attended a giveaway on his behalf because he was preparing for a game.

I’m sure there’s a lot of acts of kindness not announced but each and everything done was appreciated. I know these men just hope you “Pay It Forward”.
If you have a story idea send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. Please follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm.

DeionBranch1011811-Spillman-sub