Statement: Former UofL & NFL star Jamon Brown talks about the hiring of Jeff Brohm:

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December 8, 2022

“I feel the University is sending a strong statement to the city!  That it feels what the community feels, what the university feels!  This says the University will satisfy the needs to put the program in the best position to be the best in the country!

Jeff’s a hire I think that everyone can appreciate and respect! And he has the done a lot of great things in his time as a coach! Just look at what he has done for Purdue!

Now it’s time to get behind him, support his culture! To Jeff, welcome back make the city, the university, our alma mater proud! Go Cards!”

Jamon Brown

The VIPP Report: NFL star Bilal Powell is building relationships and homes in Indiana and Kentucky

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NFL’s Bilal Powell building relationships and homes off the field

The Former University of Louisville running back says Louisville is a good place to raise his family

Sherlene M. Shanklin

Your Story: As we wait for the football season to get started.  A former Cardinal and NFL star actually lives in Louisville hoping to build relationships and homes.  WHAS11’s Sherlene Shanklin talks to Bilal Powell. 
As Bilal Powell awaits to hear what team he will play for this NFL season he continues to build.
Homes that is…The former UofL Cardinal and NY Jets Running Back is now the co-owner of a home building company. 

Powell says “I was always into real estate and my partner and I was introduced through some mutual friends. It started off a friendship and we got to talking finally realized he was a builder.”

His business partner at GreyBuilt Homes is Aaron Witt. They decided to team up to grow the business. Named after Witt’s daughter.
He says “The people I know and the people he knows we figured that we don’t have to be a small time business we can really take over the area.”

Powell me on a tour of Floyd Knobs, Indiana . He’s currently looking into opportunities to help in West Louisville. I asked the Florida native why did he decide to come back to Louisville? “Louisville is a great city you know my wife is from here.  The city is so family oriented. And I was like this is a great place to raise a family.”

I had to ask the question his fans wanted to know.  If a NFL team calls tomorrow would he go back?  He says his magic number is 10. So he continues to work out five days a week in the morning before heading into his office.  His answer, “Yes, I want to get in 10 years.  Its just a personal goal for me to get in ten years.  I got the opportunity to play under Ladamion Thompson and he did 10 years obviously Matt Forte’ did 10 years.”

Powell keeps up with his brothers of U of L and the Jets and some plan to team up on future projects.  
“Just being an alumni of U of L, the brotherhood. I actually have other teammates they do concrete, they do all of these different things we are now starting to connect which is awesome.”

He gives some advice to those who want to be in the NFL. It’s not where you start but how you finish and he’s a true testament to that.  He was drafted in the fourth round at 126.  “You definitely have to have a focus and dedication. One thing about the NFL the talent margin is small. “It doesn’t matter if you come in as a first rounder or a seventh rounder or undrafted. If you work hard and do what you need to do and be consistent at what you do. You can stick around for a long time.” 

I also asked Powell what legacy would he like to leave behind? He says, “I’m a guy of few words, but my actions speak louder than my words. I just want to be a guy known to be consistent, my profession, my friendship, my marriage whatever it maybe I was consistent in what I did and something like this is an opportunity to leave something like this for my kids.” 

Bilal Powell hopes to build six to eight homes this year since the economy is now on the upswing. Focusing on building on both sides of the river.  The free agent had nine successful seasons in the NFL to date. 

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

The see the WHAS11 story on Powell click the link provided https://www.whas11.com/article/features/bilal-powell-focused-on-building-homes-in-louisville/417-df751bbf-c074-432a-b06c-2839dd630e99

The VIPP Report: Former UK and NFL player Jared Lorenzen teams up with Rajon Rondo Foundation, Kroger and Now Let’s Get Fit Foundation for Health and Wellness Tour

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Louisville/Lexington (May 7, 2019) Former NFL Quarterback and University of Kentucky Hall of Famer, Jared Lorenzen has teamed with the Now Let’s Get Fit Foundation, Kroger and the Rajon Rondo Foundation for the 2019 Kentucky Health and Wellness Tour.

The tour will kick off Saturday May 18 at Kroger locations in Louisville at 12501 Shelbyville Rd, Louisville Middletown store.

The next day Sunday May 19 will be in Lexington Kroger at 3101 Richmond Rd location.

Both events are from noon-4:00 pm.

Let’s Get Fit Foundation’s mission is to combat obesity and instill Health and Wellness through Fitness and Nutrition. Each event is family friendly, Free to the public and includes fitness classes, nutrition stations, health screenings (for obesity related illness), kid zone activities and giveaways. Jared Lorenzen along with other former local athletes will be in attendance and participating.

“I want to show everyone that it’s never too early or too late to start the journey towards health. I want people to know that if I can do it then you can do it. My goal is to use the tour to put a face to obesity. Each event is a platform that everyone can join, have fun, feel safe to express themselves, get the inspiration and answers on health and wellness they need to make the change in their life.”  Jared Lorenzen.

Prior to Jared’s journey he had reached 500 lbs.  In the last year, he has lost 100 lbs. and counting.  Jared understood that he had to admit that there was an issue and then he got busy to get it.  We invite you to meet Jared and fitness professionals that can show you techniques that can help you and your entire family get fit.

Sponsors for the event are Kroger, Optup, Powerade Zero, Core Power, Rajon Rondo Foundation, The Little Clinic and Planet Mogul. The tour will extend to other locations in Louisville, Lexington and surrounding areas the remainder of 2019.

To learn more follow https://www.facebook.com/TheJaredLorenzenProject/ visit and sign up for Fitness Classes at http://www.nowletsgetfit.eventbrite.com or contact Anthony Holt @aholt@nowletsgetfit.com or call 323.365.3371

If you would like to setup an interview with Jared Lorenzen and/or other team members, please contact Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com or by phone at 502-295-0435.

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vippnewlogoVIPP Communications is a full service public relations, event    mgmt & 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: Two-time Super Bowl Champ Deion Branch will host a free Skills & Drills Camp in Louisville

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(Louisville, KY) Former University of Louisville and two-time Super Bowl champ and SB XXXIX MVP Deion Branch announces the date of his upcoming 9th Annual Skills and Drills Camp in Louisville.  Save the date of Saturday, July 21st at the Baptist Health Performance Training Facility, 12101 Sycamore Station Place. Registration begins at 8:00 am and the camp is from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.   The camp is for youth ages 7 to 18.  The registration fee is waived thanks to the Deion Branch Foundation so the camp is FREE but you need to register online.  THE CAMP AND SPACE IS LIMITED SO SIGN UP ASAP.  Go to www.deionbranchfoundation.org to register.

Branch says “This year, I decided to change things up a little to help some youth in the community who’ve really wanted to participate but could not afford the registration fee. We will do some offensive and defensive drills and some NFL and college level conditioning to see what your child needs to work on if they want to play football. This camp gives them a chance to learn proper technique, health and wellness plus sportsmanship.”

The Deion Branch Charitable Foundation is a non-profit organization whose mission is to offer support to children’s mental, physical, emotional wellbeing and for those who have been infected with meningitis.  The DBCF’s mission is to help with research and to find a cure to ease the struggle for children like Deion’s son. The foundation goal is to assist by providing programs and initiatives aimed at improving their quality of life. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.  For more information on the foundation go to http://www.deionbranchfoundation.org.

If you would like to be a sponsor and/or donate items for goodie bags, please contact William Hicks at 334-507-3632 or Sherlene Shanklin at 502-295-0435.  To register your child for the 9th Annual Skills & Drills Camp go to http://www.deionbranchfoundation.org and fill out the online registration form.

To setup an interview with Deion Branch about the camp held on Saturday, July 21st, please call Sherlene Shanklin, Branch’s publicist at sshanklin@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. 

The VIPP Report: Super Bowl champs Philadelphia Eagles will not visit the White House on Tuesday

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Photo by Aaron Kittredge on Pexels.com

Updated 2:03am 6-5-18

The Philadelphia Eagles released a statement.  It doesn’t recognize the cancellation of their Washington White House visit but it refers to those who have supported them and have celebrated their Super Bowl win.

 

Updated 9:30pm 6-4-18

The Mayor of Philadelphia reacts to the Eagles cancelled white house visit.  See statement below:

“The Eagles call the birthplace of our democracy home, so it’s no surprise that this team embodies everything that makes our country and our city great. Their athletic accomplishments on the field led to an historic victory this year. Fans all across the country rallied behind them because we like to root for the underdog and we feel joy when we see the underdogs finally win. I’m equally proud of the Eagles’ activism off the field. These are players who stand up for the causes they believe in and who contribute in meaningful ways to their community. They represent the diversity of our nation—a nation in which we are free to express our opinions.

“Disinviting them from the White House only proves that our President is not a true patriot, but a fragile egomaniac obsessed with crowd size and afraid of the embarrassment of throwing a party to which no one wants to attend.

“City Hall is always open for a celebration.”

 Still awaiting a response from the Eagles franchise and the NFL.

–END–

With less than a day before the NFL Super Bowl Champs travel to Washington to meet with President Donald Trump calls off the visit.  It’s due to the dispute over NFL players and personnel and why they should stand instead of kneeling during the playing of the national anthem.  Many of the players had decided not to attend prior to this release but a small group was going to Washington to represent the franchise.

In a statement released late today by the White House says ”the Philadelphia Eagles are unable to come to the White House with their full team to be celebrated tomorrow.  They disagree with their President because he insists that they proudly stand for the National Anthem, hand on heart, in honor of the great men and women of our military and the people of our country.  The Eagles wanted to send a smaller delegation, but the 1,000 fans planning to attend the event deserve better. These fans are still invited to the White House to be part of a different type of ceremony—one that will honor our great country, pay tribute to the heroes who fight to protect it, and loudly and proudly play the National Anthem.  I will be there at 3:00 p.m. with the United States Marine Band and the United States Army Chorus to celebrate America.”

We have been awaiting a response from the Eagles and/or the NFL but at the time of the report they have not released a statement.

If you have a story idea, send it to me at thevippreport at vippcommunications.com.  You can follow us for real-time news on Twitter @thevippreport.

The VIPP Report: LA Rams Right Guard Jamon Brown tees off in Louisville for a golf scramble benefiting the Coalition for the Homeless

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(Louisville, KY) NFL star and Louisville native Jamon Brown, announces that he will create several signature events during his off-season, to support his hometown through his non-profit J.Brown Foundation. First on the calendar, is the inaugural Jamon Brown Foundation Celebrity Golf Scramble, in partnership with the Coalition for the Homeless.

The scramble will take place Monday, April 9th at Lake Forest Country Club. Registration will begin at 10:30 am sharp, and at 11:00 am Mayor Greg Fischer will kick-off the event with a welcome. Shortly after, those in attendance will have the unique opportunity to meet and greet former U of L and UK Legends, and other notable celebrities. There will be a 1:00 pm shotgun start.

We are receiving local and national Celebrity confirmations daily, and are happy to announce the following special guests joining Brown in attendance: Hall of Fame and former UofL Head Coach Denny Crum; 2000 Super Bowl Champion and former UofL star quarterback Chris Redman; 2013 NCAA Champions Russ Smith and Luke Hancock; UK basketball legend Jack “Goose” Givens; and NFL Super Bowl Champion and UK football star Jared Lorenzen, to name a few. Additional names will be released in the coming weeks.

One of the highlights of this event, is that celebrity guests will be auctioned off to golf with the highest bidding team! Those that are interested, will have an opportunity to golf with their favorite sports legend.

Jamon Brown says “Anytime that I can get home and help my community that’s what I’m going to do. When you look at the statistics of homelessness in Louisville, many are my age or a little younger, and it causes me to stop and think that we all could be in that situation. So, if I can help just one person get back on track, we have accomplished our goal.”

Brown attended Fern Creek High School in Louisville, KY. He received a scholarship to the University of Louisville, and played football from 2011 to the 2014 season, under Coaches Charlie Strong and Bobby Petrino respectively. He was an offensive line starter on the 2013 Sugar Bowl Champion Team. Brown was then picked in the third round of the 2015 NFL draft by the St. Louis and now Los Angeles Rams. This past season, he started all 16 games as their right guard, helping to lead the way for 2017 NFL Offensive MVP, Todd Gurley.

To Register your team of four ($600), or to register individually ($150), please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jamon-brown-celebrity-golf-scramble-tickets-43621584333.

For sponsorship opportunities please contact Danny Mosby at Danny.mosby@gmail.com or Sherlene Shanklin at info@vippcommuications.com. This event is planned and organized by Rising Tide Events, and is one that you do not want to miss! Expertise provided by Jason Kemelgor and MyLendingRate.com-a J Brown Foundation partner.

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About JBrown Foundation

Our mission is to impact the lives of those struggling with Poverty, Violence, and Youth Homelessness, and to improve upon the Education and Healthy Living issues that are typically prevalent in at risk areas, while influencing others to do the same. To donate go to JBrownFoundation.com.  Follow us on Facebook JBrown Foundation, Twitter: JB_The_GREAT_68 and Instagram: JB_The_GREAT_68. “Setting our Foundation one block at a time.”

About the Coalition for the Homeless

The Coalition for the Homeless, located at 1300 S. 4th Street, Suite 250, is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with a mission to prevent and eliminate homelessness in Louisville. The Coalition has a three-pronged approach to this mission: advocacy, education, and coordination of their 30+ member agencies who provide a variety of services to the homeless throughout the city. For more information, visit http://www.louhomeless.org, call (502) 636-9550, or find The Coalition for the Homeless on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/LouHomeless or on Twitter @louhomeless

#JBrownFoundation #JamonBrown #CoaltionfortheHomeless #LARAMS #LakeForestCountryClub #Mylendingrate.com #PRMI #RisingTideEvents

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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 if we can assist you at info at vippcommunications dot com. 

The VIPP Report: Former UofL and Current Los Angeles Rams Star Jamon Brown Gives Back for the Holidays

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502stepup

(Louisville, KY) NFL star Jamon Brown and his foundation (J. Brown Foundation) are teaming up with WHAS11 TV and the Homeless Coalition For The “#502StepUp” for the Holidays Fundraiser.

The goal of the telethon is to raise funds during the Holiday Season while bringing awareness to Youth and Young Adult Homelessness. It’s a trying time, especially during the winter months, for those that do not have a permanent place to call home.

The J. Brown Foundation is asking the City of Louisville to “Step Up” and be a part of the solution, and assist those who just need a little help during the holidays.  Currently, there is a spike in youth and young adult homelessness between the ages of 16-24 in Louisville, and Jamon is rolling up his sleeves to help shed light on this issue.

In Jefferson County alone, there’s over 800 new cases per year of youth that are considered homeless for various reasons. The statistics are staggering and agencies like the Homeless Coalition are overwhelmed with requests this time of year.

“The J. Brown Foundation is committed to assisting our community partners by investing time, energy and resources, while using our platform to bring awareness to issues such as Youth and Young Adult Homelessness. Even the smallest donations go a long way, and we need the city’s support to raise funds during the Holidays to propel the Homeless Coalition to their goal of eliminating Youth Homelessness by 2020,” says Jamon Brown.

On Wednesday, November 15th we are asking you to open your heart and donate during our telethon on WHAS11TV from 4 pm to 6:30 pm.

Even a small donation will go a long way.  Plus, you will never know who will be on the other line taking your pledge.

It’s the “502StepUp for the Holidays”.  Please call in from 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm on Wednesday, November 15th to donate by calling 502-571-2345 or 1-866-885-1848.

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About the Coalition for the Homeless

The Coalition for the Homeless, located at 1300 S. 4th Street, Suite 250, is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with a mission to prevent and eliminate homelessness in Louisville. The Coalition has a three-pronged approach to this mission: advocacy, education, and coordination of their 30+ member agencies who provide a variety of services to the homeless throughout the city. For more information, visit http://www.louhomeless.org, call (502) 636-9550, or find The Coalition for the Homeless on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/LouHomeless or on Twitter @louhomeless

About JBrown Foundation

Our mission is to impact the lives of those struggling with Poverty, Violence, and Youth Homelessness, and to improve upon the Education and Healthy Living issues that are typically prevalent in at risk areas, while influencing others to do the same. To donate go to JBrownFoundation.com.  Follow us on Facebook JBrown Foundation, Twitter @NFLRAM_JBROWN and Instagram @NFLRAM_jBrown. “Setting our Foundation one block at a time.”

About WHAS11 TV

WHAS11 is the ABC affiliate serving the Louisville, Kentucky television market.  Owned by TEGNA Inc., WHAS11 has been broadcasting in Kentucky and Southern Indiana since 1950.  WHAS11 is recognized for a rich history of journalistic excellence, award winning local programing, and a commitment to improve the communities it serves. For media inquiries, contact: Rob Thomas, Marketing Director WHAS11 502.582.7700

 

The VIPP Report: Birdgang Brand Apparel announces former Cardinal and LA Ram Jamon Brown to their Louisville Legends Series

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(Louisville, KY) The University of Louisville Football Team started their season with a win against former UofL star Jeff Brohm’s scrappy Purdue Boilermaker team. Consequently, we are now just days away from the kick off of the National Football League (NFL) season as well!  This time of year, and the excitement behind both football seasons, make it the perfect time for Louisville-based Birdgang Brand Clothing, to add to its “Louisville Legends” Series. This specific line of clothing, which Birdgang introduced with Super Bowl 39 MVP Deion Branch as its initial athlete, was created out of respect and love for former UofL greats, their contribution to the University, as well as for the fans of these particular past players. Added to this very prestigious list, is Louisville’s “Home Grown” Jamon Brown!

Jamon starred at Louisville’s Fern Creek High School, The University of Louisville, and is now the starting right guard for the Los Angeles Rams, clearing the way on the line of scrimmage for 2015 NFL Rookie of the Year Todd Gurley. “SACRIFICE” is the exclusive design that Jamon and Birdgang Brand brainstormed about, the one word that embodies the life and career of an offensive lineman! Or? Maybe it embodies the life of an at home mom, or an awesome front line employee that gets little recognition? Or? Maybe it embodies the life of our military men and women, that give their lives freely on a daily basis! Or? Maybe our first responders to situations like Hurricane Harvey-the men and women that run into disastrous situations, while others look or run away. Or? Maybe it’s our at-risk youth, of which Jamon is very active through his JBrown Foundation, and teaching them that SACRIFICE breeds success. Whichever it is, this design fits the mold of anyone that has given their time and energy, seeking very little in return.

“The sacrifice shirt really speaks for itself,” says Jamon. “Being an offensive lineman, you’re constantly making sacrifices! You are consistently the least recognized but are a part of the bigger goal, and take on some of the biggest responsibilities, in the process of building success. This design takes you into the perspective of an offensive lineman, and others making sacrifices! For me, it’s just the selfless attitude that I have, and I think many lineman like myself have as well. So, the words and phrases of this shirt, puts you in the shoes of an individual that puts the TEAM, before themselves. The ultimate Sacrifice!”

The exclusive “Sacrifice” Design will go on sale this Friday for a limited time only and is in high demand, as a portion of the proceeds will benefit The JBrown Foundation. The Foundation has a focus on our “At Risk” Youth in Louisville and abroad, and helping them to realize their fullest potential, with an end-goal of influencing them, and others to be givers. The link below is equipped with the pricing details of the shirt. There’s also a direct path (toward the middle of the page once the link is opened), to the JBrown Foundation for those that want to donate directly, and stay abreast with the happenings of the Foundation.  If you would like to purchase the “Sacrifice” design we’ve provided the following link: https://birdgangpledge.ignitecx.com/sacrifice.

To setup an interview with Jamon Brown and/or members of Birdgang Brand Clothing please contact Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com.  To learn more about Birdgang Brand visit www.wearebirdgang.com.

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Please note-This Saturday, (September 9th) Birdgang Brand/Cardinal Phone Repair will be having its first “Game Watch Party” at their new store this Saturday, Kicking off at 1030am with Cornhole and other tailgating activities before the Noon game time vs UNC. 2948 Yorkshire Blvd at the Intersection of Taylorsville Rd and Breckinridge Lane in Hikes Point. Jamon Brown “Sacrifice” shirts can be Pre-ordered at the Game Watch Party as well. Event sponsored by The JBrown Foundation.

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The VIPP Report: Former NFL & U of L facility to give youth a leg up on the competition

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(Louisville, KY) Super Student Athletes Inc. and their Executive Director Mario Urrutia will officially cut the ribbon to their new LIFE facility.  The ceremony will take place on Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. located at 222 Eiler Avenue.

Community leaders and members that influenced Urrutia will be present to celebrate with the former NFL standout and University of Louisville football star.  Urrutia was drafted in 2008 by the Cincinnati Bengals.  He went on to play for the New York Jets and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He also had a very successful career in arena football. In 2013, he was named AFL Rookie of the Year.  The Fern Creek High School graduate decided to return to Louisville to help those who helped him by giving back to his community.

The Super Student Athletes LIFE Center will provide opportunities for youth to learn a variety of lifetime skills focusing on education, community and healthy living.

Urrutia says “My passion is assisting the total athlete from academics to being the best YOU, both on and off the field.  I’m passionate about giving youth a fighting chance to be successful.  It’s really hard for many to concentrate literally on anything because of their particular circumstances.  I have created a safe haven where they can achieve with no distractions because everyone at the LIFE Center all have the same goal and that’s to be successful.”

The program will begin promptly at 11:00 am and will last approximately an hour followed by a tour.

Also on Friday, January 20th, at 6:00 p.m. also at the LIFE Center, there will be a private cocktail event to thank our sponsors and potential donors for their support. Local media outlets are invited to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony and cocktail event. Please confirm your attendance so can accommodate you properly.

If you would like to setup an interview with Mario Urrutia and/or board members please contact us by calling 502-295-0435 or by email at info@vippcommunications.com.

To learn more about Super Student Athletes and how you can help go to http://www.superstudentathletes.org.

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“Education is our playbook, sports & community is our blueprint, LIFE is our field”.

VIPP Communications is your one-stop shop for public relations, marketing, branding, event management, celebrity appearances, producing (line & field) and audio/video production.  

The VIPP Report: Birdgang Brand welcomes L.A. Ram & former U of L Cardinal Jamon Brown to the team

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(Louisville, KY) We are just hours away from the kickoff of the Louisville Cardinal football season and everyone is getting excited about the season and future that lies ahead for this ACC team. Birdgang Brand Clothing is happy to announce Jamon Brown as the newest partner of the elite brand of University of Louisville apparel and accessories.

With the ink now dry on the deal, Jamon officially becomes a partner in Birdgang, and also takes on the role of being the first professional athlete to be endorsed by the locally-owned clothing company, and certainly will not be the last.

Jamon is in his second year in the NFL and is the starting right guard for the Los Angeles Rams, where he regularly clears the line of scrimmage for 2015 Rookie of the Year, running back Todd Gurley.

Jamon was born and raised in Louisville, Ky. and is a client of Rich Sports Management, which worked with Birdgang Brand Clothing Partner and Chief Financial Officer, Danny Mosby to get the ground breaking deal done. He is also a Fern Creek High School and University of Louisville graduate.

Mosby credits the ability to get such an enormous deal done, to the overall humbleness that Jamon displays, as well as the strong image that he exudes in his daily life. “Jamon is an excellent young man, a hard worker, and one that we lost sleep over to secure this deal, because we couldn’t think of a better person of higher integrity that also matches the missions of our Brand. He was just the perfect fit.”

Jamon says “It’s a huge honor and opportunity to become a part of the Birdgang family! BIRDGANG has been a part of the first group of people to believe in me, and to have this opportunity means a lot! As we take the next step in our journey, I’m excited to build and grow together! #BirdgangFamily”

Birdgang will also look to create a specific division geared toward Jamon’s likeness, and will also aim to benefit the “Big and Tall” crowd, which unfortunately has frustrating challenges when it pertains to purchasing University of Louisville themed merchandise.

If you would like to setup an interview, (in-studio/phone) please contact VIPP Communications for availability.

Facebook: wearebirdgang Twitter: wearebirdgang

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Birdgang Brand Clothing is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky and is a high fashion sports apparel company centered around the University of Louisville Athletics. The clothing line is founded by two members of the rap group Nappy Roots, Brian “Buffalo Stille” Scott and Ronald “Ron Clutch” Wilson. Birdgang Brand Clothing is supported and approved by the University of Louisville, and is officially licensed by the Collegiate Licensing Company, (CLC). Birdgang Brand Clothing can be found at JD Becker, Fan Outfitters, Cardinal Authentic, Hall of Fame Café, Mall St. Matthews and participating Kroger stores. To learn more about the Birdgang Brand and find vendor information, visit www.wearebirdgang.com.

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The VIPP Report: Former U of L Cardinal and current Minnesota Viking is injured in practice

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Special Report by Sherlene Shanklin

Updated at 4:05pm 9/1/2016: Teddy Bridgewater releases a statement on his season-ending injury. Bridgewater says

“I want to thank the Wilf Family and the entire Vikings organization, all of my teammates, friends, Eric Sugarman and the amazing Vikings athletic training staff and the fans who have sent me messages and wished me well. Your thoughts and prayers mean a lot to me and have helped me in this difficult time. There are great players and great leaders in our locker room who are going to fight to the end to reach the goals we set for 2016. I will be there mentally, physically and in spirit to support them accomplish those goals.

In order to have a testimony, you have to have a test. I come from amazing DNA, I watched my mom fight and win against breast cancer. We will, as a team, attack my rehab with the same vigor and energy. My faith is strong, my faith is unwavering and my vision is clear. My purpose will not be denied.”

Updated at 6:21pm 8/30/2016: The Minnesota Vikings held a news conference and they say Teddy Bridgewater has a “significant” knee injury.  He’s undergoing a MRI and that will tell them more.  Follow us for real-time news @thevippreport @vippcomm @sherlenemediapr.

The Minnesota Vikings’ Tuesday practice came to an abrupt end when quarterback Teddy Bridgewater suffered an apparent left knee injury.

The former University of Louisville QB clutched his knee on the ground. An ambulance arrived for him and the remainder of practice was called off.
No details on the exact nature or severity of Bridgewater’s injury but multiple sources say it looks bad. We will have to wait and see.
If you have a story idea, send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com.  You can follow me on Twitter @Sherlenemediapr @TheVIPP Report.

The VIPP Report: Two-time Super Bowl Champ Deion Branch will host his football camp in Louisville

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SUPER BOWL XXXIX MVP & FORMER U OF L CARDINAL DEION BRANCH RETURNS TO LOUISVILLE FOR HIS ANNUAL CAMP

(Louisville, KY)  Two-time Super Bowl champ and SB XXXIX MVP Deion Branch and his foundation returns to Louisville, Kentucky for their 7th Annual Skills & Drills Football Camp. It will be on Saturday, July 9th at D1 Louisville, 12101 Sycamore Station Place.  Registration begins at 8:00 am and the camp is from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.

The camp is for youth ages 7 to 16.  The registration fee is only $50, which includes:  lunch, goodie bag, t-shirt and personal instruction from Branch and some of his University of Louisville teammates and friends.

Branch says “I really enjoy seeing youth learn how to go through some of the drills I went through.  We cover numerous drills to determine their potential skillset.  We show them proper techniques while having a good time.  The camp also promotes health, sportsmanship and even scholastic achievement to further a child’s education.”

If your child is interested in football this will be a good start for them.  If they are already participating in area leagues this camp will give them a leg up on their competition.

The proceeds raised during the camp will benefit the Deion Branch Foundation. The Deion Branch Charitable Foundation is a non-profit organization whose mission is to offer support to children’s mental, physical, emotional well-being and for those who have been infected with meningitis.  The DBCF’s mission is to help with research and to find a cure to ease the struggle for children like Deion’s son. The foundation goal is to assist by providing programs and initiatives aimed at improving their quality of life. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.  For more information on the foundation go to http://www.deionbranchfoundation.org.

f you would like to be a sponsor and/or donate items for goodie bags, please contact William Hicks at 334-507-3632 or Sherlene Shanklin at 502-295-0435.  To register your child for the 7th Annual Skills & Drills Camp go to  http://www.deionbranchfoundation.org and fill out the online registration form.

To setup an interview with Deion Branch about the camp held on Saturday, July 9th, please call Sherlene Shanklin, Branch’s publicist at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com or 502-295-0435.

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Louisville QB Teddy Bridgewater announces that he will forgo his senior year and enter the NFL draft

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University of Louisville releases a statement in regards to QB Teddy Bridgewater entering the 2014 NFL Draft.

University of Louisville junior quarterback Teddy Bridgewater has decided to forgo his final year of collegiate eligibility, and make himself available for the 2014 NFL Draft. “After discussing all the options with my family and the coaching staff, I have decided to forgo my senior season and declare for the NFL Draft,” Bridgewater said. “This was an extremely difficult decision for me. I can’t express how much my time at Louisville has meant to me. These past three years have allowed me to mature as a person and leave the university as better person and with my degree in hand, which was one of my goals. I will cherish every moment on the field and off the field, and every bond that I built. I will forever represent the university with the utmost pride and respect. I want to extend a special thank you to my teammates, Tom Jurich, all the academic staff and professors, the coaching staff, support staff, students and the Cardinals’ fan base.

“I didn’t know much about Louisville when I made the decision to attend, but in the end, it was one of the best decisions I could have ever made.”

Bridgewater made the decision following an outstanding 2013 season, which was capped by a standout performance in the 2013 Russell Athletic Bowl, where he completed 35-of-45 passes for a career-high 447 yards and three touchdowns.

Bridgewater won 27 games in his three years as the starting quarterback for Louisville, including 12 wins in 2013, which tied a school record. Bridgewater threw for 3,970 yards and 31 touchdowns in 2013, while completing 71 percent of his passes.

In leading the Cardinals to a 12-1 record, Bridgewater developed into one of the best quarterbacks in the nation. He opened the season by tying his career high with five touchdown passes in a 49-7 win over Ohio and four more in wins over Eastern Kentucky and FIU. He recorded seven 300-yard passing games and was a second team All-American Athletic Conference selection this season.

In 39 career games at Louisville, Bridgewater threw for 9,817 yards, which is third most in the UofL annals, while his 72 career touchdown passes also ranks as third best in school history. He completed a school-record 68.3 percent of his passes and had just 24 interceptions in 1,142 career pass attempts.

The Miami, Fla., native was the 2012 BIG EAST Offensive Player of the Year and a first team all-league selection after throwing for 3,719 yards and 27 touchdowns in guiding the Cardinals to an 11-2 record and a win over fourth-ranked Florida in the Sugar Bowl. In earning Most Valuable Player accolades in the win over the Gators, Bridgewater went 20-of-32 for 266 yards and two scores in a win over Florida.

The Cardinals have three returning quarterbacks on the roster in redshirt freshman Will Gardner, freshman Kyle Bolin, and junior Brett Nelson.

 

 

 

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

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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”.
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Two-time NFL champion Deion Branch helps two families in Kentucky after a major fire

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DSCN0344Super Bowl 39 MVP & former University of Louisville wide receiver Deion Branch heard about two families in Elizabethtown, Kentucky losing everything in a house fire.  After seeing the media reports, Branch and his family went to Elizabethtown on Saturday, December 14th to meet the two families. He wanted to help them get some necessities to get them through the holidays.

With the assistance of the Elizabethtown Red Cross, Branch met the families consisting of eleven (11) members and took them on a shopping spree at the area Target Store.  The families got an opportunity to pick up clothing, home essentials and toys for the children.  

Branch says “To see their faces when we told them to get what they needed were priceless.  To have my wife and children with me was a special moment.  We try to instill in our children to give back.  I was so proud to see my son and daughters helping the children pick out their gifts.  We’re happy that we can be a blessing to them but they were also a blessing to us.  They made us realize as long as we have each other that’s all that really matters.  Material things can be replaced.”   

 The Deion Branch Charitable Foundation is a non-profit organization whose mission is to offer support to children’s mental, physical, emotional well-being and for those inflected with meningitis.  The DBCF’s mission is to help with research and to find a cure to ease the struggles for children like Deiondre, Deion’s son. The foundation goal is to assist by providing programs and initiatives aimed at improving their quality of life. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

If you would like additional photos visit the Deion Branch Foundation at http://www.deionbranchfoundation.org. 

For additional information please contact Sherlene Shanklin at 502-295-0435 or by email at

sshanklin@vippcommunications.com.