Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11 Television, ABC, Louisville
As we approach the first Saturday in May. There’s will be a lot of events, galas and activities taking place. At this time every year, I begin to layout the long list of celebrities that will participate in Kentucky Derby events. Click the link below to see who will be in Louisville the first week in May.
George T. French, Jr., graduate of Trinity High School and the University of Louisville and now the President of Clark Atlanta University is coming to Louisville to help Mayor Fischer honoring Wade and Alice Houston for all their years of dedicated service to the UNCF (United Negro College Fund).
To help celebrate the event and especially the Houstons, President French will provide a full scholarship to Clark Atlanta University for the Fall 2023.
For upcoming high school seniors, please submit a one pager (no more than 500 words) on why you want to attend Clark Atlanta University and why community service is so important to your educational experience.
The HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities), Clark Atlanta University initiatives include:
·Innovative research to help cure prostate cancer and Alzheimer’s
·Create new solutions in cybersecurity
·Accelerate new avenues of entrepreneurship
·Opportunities in finding new ways to eradicate social and racial injustices
Clark Atlanta University (CAU) was the nation’s first institution to award graduate degrees to African Americans and was the nation’s first four-year liberal arts college to serve a primarily African American student population. Today, with over 4000 students, representing 9 countries, CAU is the largest of the four institutions (CAU, Morehouse College, Spelman College and Morehouse School of Medicine) that comprise the Atlanta University Center Consortium. Clark Atlanta University is also the largest of the 37-member United Negro College Fund (UNCF) institutions.
Clark Atlanta University continues a 150-year legacy rooted in African American tradition while focusing on the future through global innovation, transformative educational experiences and high-value engagement.
CAU Programs Include:
•The only Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development of its kind
•A Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurial Development
•An Institute for Civic Engagement, Social Justice & Leadership Institute
•The W.E.B. Du Bois Southern Center for Studies in Public Policy
•A Center for Workforce Development
•A program in Cyber Physical Systems
•39 undergraduate programs, 28 graduate programs, 9 doctoral programs
“I am proud of my Louisville legacy – being born and raised with my sisters, graduating from Trinity High School and then from the crown jewel of the city – the University of Louisville. Now, as the President of the largest College Fund school – Clark Atlanta University, I want to provide an opportunity for a 2023 high school graduate – a future innovator, entrepreneur, C-Suite Executive through a full scholarship to Clark Atlanta University.”
For upcoming high school seniors, please submit a one pager (no more than 500 words) on why you want to attend Clark Atlanta University and why community service is so important to your educational experience.
For interviews with President French: sshanklin@vippcommunications.com
Please send your 500-word essay to: Rohena@nichemktg.com
Special Report by Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11 ABC Louisville
Inside the Mercury Ballroom on a June summer night, Louisville’s newest sensation Marzz waits in anticipation to give fans a show.
As music fills the streets of South Fourth Street, crowds begin lining up with tickets in hand, ready to see the return of the up and coming R&B singer at the Ballroom.
“I feel it’s the atmosphere is what makes it so different,” they said.
Marzz, who is signed to Keep Cool/RCA Records, is back at the venue for a second time where others like fellow Louisvillians Bryson Tiller and Jack Harlow have also graced the stage.
“I just wanted to connect and vibe with yall, this is my home,” they said.
This night, it’s different. It’s the first time since releasing their full-length album “Love Letters” to fans – Martians as they call them, across the country.
“Baby, that’s my heartbeat. Got me looking – going crazy,” they said.
The journey to Marzz started in Louisville for Laria McCormick, a Fairdale High School graduate. The humble beginnings put the singer on the path to reaching for the stars.
They started singing in church from an early age where their mother and grandmother were both heavily involved in church leadership.
“Since I was a kid, I grew up in church. Singing in the children’s choir, I feel like that had a lot influence too. Literally being a pk, my aunties and them always had me singing solo in the choir, I used to hate it cuz it’s like literally all eyes on me,” Marzz said.
Marzz said their sound and gender identity, which is non-binary, moved them away from the church and toward the R&B billboard charts.
Marzz prefers the pronouns “they, their and them” – not “she.”
“I feel like in the church there was a lot of judgmental people. You know what I’m saying, it’s kind of weird to transition from that, but it felt good to transition into a place where I felt welcome – where I knew that ain’t nobody going to judge me,” they said.
Drawing from personal experiences of hardship and heartache, Marzz poured out feelings on pages of notebooks – each with different colors – that would eventually become the inspiration for their debut release.
“I feel like really didn’t start getting into song writing in my music until I was like 11. You know what I’m saying, that’s when my mom and dad was going through a divorce. I kind of just went to notebooks. You know, just expressing myself, I wasn’t a real verbal kid growing up. I have different color notebooks that I write in,” they said.
It wasn’t until an Instagram post, standing out from the typical scrolling, that garnered the attention of super producer Timbaland. The stars began aligning for the young artist.
“Usually, I get like 300 views but then the day that I posted it this Jhené Aiko freestyle I believe. I had went in my phone, I woke up, and I see my phone kept going off – what’s going on with my phone and I look on my Instagram — I seen Timbaland repost it and I was like hold up – I was like hold up I started screaming, I was crying. I was like is this really him?” they said.
The social media post, plus their connection with Timbaland and several recordings in tow, landed them in front of RCA Records.
The songs of love and heartache would be released as a six-track EP that would take on a deeper meaning.
“Just me exploring, you know, figuring out self, loving myself, and understanding who I am as a person, you know what I’m saying.”
The standout single, “Countless Times,” dives right into their world.
The Mercury Ballroom would seem as far away as the moon, where Marzz was headed.
They captured national attention performing during the Soul Train Awards on the BET Amplified stage, receiving kudos from the likes of JaRule.
From that moment, Marzz skyrocketed into the stratosphere. They have been named a “Future Five Artist” by SiriusXM and Billboard magazine’s “R&B Rookie Artist” in April.
“It was a super humbling moment for me. I was like dang, ‘this is so incredible’, you know what I’m saying? I was like, speechless, I was like they really mess with me. I appreciate all the love cuz what else can I say other than thank you for hearing me,” they said.
The young artist’s career is coming at a time when the tide is changing in the music industry. Social media is playing a huge role in how hits are determined.
Their meaningful melodic vibe is separating them from the rest, pushing the realm of R&B music beyond its limits.
“I think I’m outside the box, like I don’t think that I make just R&B music. I make everything, like, it don’t matter what it is. I don’t even know if it’s got a name to it. The genre or the type of – whatever the beat or wherever the beat is taking me, that’s where I go,” they said.
Music and the way hits are made might be changing, but it’s not about topping the charts for the young artist.
“I ain’t gon’ lie I don’t think I would be this far—you know what I mean? I still have so much more to go but I’m super grateful to be where I am at,” they said.
It’s the emotions of break-up and finding new love that gives Marzz and their Martians a world of their own .Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherlene@sherleneshanklin.comor follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram
To see the story click the link: https://www.whas11.com/article/news/local/marzz-louisville-music-r-b-music/417-64505fd4-3d92-4a20-a750-66a6ec7f50bf
Special Report by Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11, ABC Louisville
I sat down with the person who helped change the landscape for ‘fairness’ in Louisville.
It all started with this t-shirt. Creating a cultural shift in the Louisville community.
“I always wanted too. If I was gonna get in this, I was in this for the fight. Because I knew it wasn’t just my fight. It was a fight for lots of people.” Says Alicia Pedreira.
Pedreira was thrust into the spotlight after thousands of people saw this photo at the Kentucky Star Fair in 1998. It led to her firing from the Kentucky Baptist Homes for Children Inc… where she had worked for six months.
She says “So, I had two interviews and on the second one when I thought it was serious that they were going to actually perhaps hire me, that’s when I told them on the second interview that I was gay, and that if that was a problem, not to hire me.”
She was hired and loved the job. So, when the photo of her and her then partner Nance was taken she had no idea of the repercussions. Her lawsuit against the company pushed her into the forefront of a movement that she was not expecting.
Pedreira says “Absolutely not! No, I was a volunteer. As a matter of fact, I think Nance at the time was a volunteer coordinator for the fairness campaign. And I volunteered but neither one of us would have imagined.”
So, how did the t-shirt come into play and when did she wear it? She says “This was a walk for AIDS and it was at the Belvedere. And that was my then girlfriend, Nance Goodman was her name then her name has since changed and we were waiting for the festivities to start because it was kind of like a party before they needed the walk or whatever… I remember a photographer came by and I’m kind of a ham and so we just smiled at the camera and he took his picture went on his way and that was it.”
Out of the lawsuit, the Louisville Fairness Ordinance went into effect after three attempts on January 26, 1999. Giving legal protection in the workplace and the right to live anywhere you want. That was a pivotal moment. Pedreira agreed saying “Yes, yes. I mean, for I think it was a cultural shift for the queer community, because we live in fear that if someone were to find out, then they could throw you out of your home. I actually didn’t live in fear. I wasn’t put in that situation when it all came out. I was renting a house and my lovely landlords called me up and said, We don’t care. You guys are great. We love you and we stand by you don’t have to worry about that.”
Fast forward twenty years later, Pedreira finally got some type of closure in the court system but not in a monetary way. “Well, I didn’t get a settlement, because that usually sounds like I got money. I didn’t get a dime ever. As a matter of fact, I signed with the ACLU not too settle because those attorneys all wanted to change law. They wanted it for everyone.”
So, this shirt, won as a door prize in a local bar becomes a conversation piece. Starting a conversation of change. But with all of the heartache, setbacks and years in litigation was worth it? She say “Honestly, I want to say yes, and if it isn’t my fight, then it’ll be somebody else’s.”
►Contact WHAS11’s Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@whas11.com or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Here’s the link to my story: https://www.whas11.com/article/news/community/moments-that-matter/pride-louisville-fairness-ordinance-creation-lgbtq-issues-local/417-47beae98-fdcd-4959-a409-baa2c88df3a2
Louisville’s own R &B/Trapsoul artist Bryson Tiller and baseball legend Ken Griffey, Jr. have teamed up to release the S24 X Trapsoul Apparel and Accessories Collection. The collection was released at midnight on March 24th. The collaboration is a combination of classic swingman style gear with a R&B/Trapsoul edge. It’s bringing culture, sport and style. It’s designed to reach the next generation of fans with a fusion of Tiller and Griffey’s style.
The collection will include jerseys, hoodies, t-shirts, pants, ball caps and backpacks. This is a limited edition S24 X TRAPSOUL Capsule Collection. To commemorate Griffey’s all-star legacy with the Seattle Mariners you will see the colors teal, ocean blue, black and white in the collection. The unisex collection ranges in sizes XS (extra small) to 3XL (triple extra-large) and it will cost you from $35 to $195.
The photos given to me for this story we actually taken in Louisville for the launch of the collection photographed by Antonio Pantoja. They were taken here in homage to Tiller and his hometown.
Excitement is building around the launch. Dorian Washington, SVP of Artist Relations for S24 says “I’ve been involved in a lot of great projects throughout my 30 year career in the music industry, but this is without a doubt the most exciting,”.
The original swingman brand was founded in 1995 reaching accolades as one of the highest grossing sports brands worldwide. Now, with the collaboration with Tiller its expected to reach that status once again by knocking out the previous records out of the park.
S24 X TRAPSOUL launches exclusively online at www.werunthegame.com.
Special Report by Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11 ABC Louisville
A rising star in the entertainment realm is backing up some of the biggest entertainers in 2022. Louisville native Jhana Waddell is showing up in music videos and live shows like Beyonce’s Academy Awards performance at the open of the show to performing with Mary J. Blige at the halftime of the Super Bowl 56.
I’ve been staying in touch with Jhana since I’ve learned of her great success. I spoke to her just days after the Super Bowl in February and she was still on a high after the performance and how it was a surprise to everyone but her parents. Jhana says “It was no secret. I told them. (laughing) They were beyond supportive and they love Mary J. Blige. They know as me being a professional dancer this is a big deal. So, everybody was getting calls the weeks leading up till asking are you ready, are ready, are you ready. Yes guys I’m so ready. I’m so excited It was all super exciting.”
Jhana grew up in the Park Duvalle and Shawnee neighborhoods attending YPAS,(Youth Performing Arts School), Spelman, a HBCU and then finishing at the University of Louisville. The professional dancer whose trained in ballet, modern, dance and tap currently lives in L.A. took me through how she was chosen to perform with the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul.
Jhana says “We have auditions out here. I have an agent. The agent relays that there’s an audition. You’ve been selected here’s the time, here’s the location. So you come with your best hair and makeup. Come with your best self ready to perform. So you learn the step. You perform in front of the choreographer. If they like you they let your agent know. Hey we want to use them. This will be the days of rehearsal and day of the show.”
During big productions normally the artist or host normally has a fill-in to stand in for them so they don’t have to be there all day. I asked did Mary J ever practice with her? She says “Yeah, not very surprising. It was fun you know. It showed that her as an artist she too wanted to make sure it looks good and felt right. So, we practiced with her and stand ins. She was there a lot. So, I’m off her left shoulder which when you look at the video I’m on the right. I’m the second on the right. Um but yeah. it was so fun.”
I asked her to explain the feeling when she knew it was showtime. Jhana tells me “It’s so indescribable the breathe of everybody when you walk into the stadium and it’s just full and packed with people. It’s a pandemic so I haven’t seen that many people in so long. I felt like tears of joy and my smile immediately came out. I’m so happy this is just a big experience. Here we go. We’re about to do it.”
She’s no stranger for big moments. She’s performed at many of the biggest music award shows with Selena Gomez to Bruno Mars and touring with Lil Baby and Future. She has some exciting news she hopes to share with us soon.
She gave some advice if you want to be in the same field. She said to trust yourself, follow your heart, be consistent, know your craft and research where you want to move were just a few of the positive words of encouragement she gave.
►Contact WHAS11’s Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@whas11.com or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
To see the television version to this story just click the link: https://www.whas11.com/video/entertainment/television/programs/the411/the-411-louisville-native-opens-up-about-super-bowl-performance/417-bccc1974-a671-44bc-978f-a2e71ddfa889
Special Report by Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11 ABC Louisville
Kentuckiana has so many fascinating women leaders working for the betterment of the community. Dr. Jamesetta Ferguson had a vision that takes up a whole block. I spoke to the visionary in today’s Moments that Matter.
Ferguson spent a lot of time just across the street in Beecher Terrace at her aunt’s when her mother was at work. Not knowing as a little girl that someday she would be able to turn the parking lot into a block of desperately needed resources. But before she had the vision Dr. Ferguson also fondly known as Pastor J travelled to Africa on a mission trip where her vision became clear.
Ferguson says “I visited a young woman who had, who was taking the anti-viral drug. She had HIV. She had a young son and the mission that I went there for working with people infected or effected by HIV and AIDS because reckoning race and reconciliation. So when we went to this young woman’s house. I came into her house and she grab me and starting weeping and started saying MOLO momma MOLO and learned that meant ‘welcome home’.”
While in Africa. Ferguson spoke to a minister with a large congregation. He shared his success and how to be resourceful. The minister said to Ferguson, “I used what I got! I use what I got! I had the mindset prior to that, that we had this historical building next door but we were not using the entire building.” She went on to say “So when I came back. We changed our attitudes to use what we got . God would not bless us more until we start using what God had provided for us already.”
She had a shift in her mindset. Her faithful team started serving about a thousand people a week. Plus, providing a long list of resources and services. “We had the clothes ministry, we had recovery ministry, we had Dare to Care ministry, Senior ministry, We had Youth ministry. We had everything in that building. We no longer worried about the condition of the building. It wasn’t that it was falling down it just needed some repair.”
Early, 2006, Dr. Ferguson was welcomed to church but not with some opposition but later being named pastor of the congregation. She says “And at that point there were 15 German-American senior adults at the church of that 15, one left cause he did not want to worship with a person that look like me.
Even though she could not speak German but she had an appreciation of their culture because her father. Ferguson says “My father actually was the first student at Louisville Municipal College which was the Black portion of the University of Louisville to major in German.”
They went into planning, and creating partnerships of how to utilize the city block they owned. They started the process to resurrect the community. “We decided to take the east parking lot of the church and develop the Village of West Jefferson. Being in a community one without for such a long period of time. This facility here is the first new construction on Jefferson Street of West Jefferson Street in over 30 years.”
Dr. Ferguson tells me she’s far from being done. She has a lot more work to do. Her next big undertaking will be in the renovation of St. Peter’s United Church of Christ.
The MOLO Village is located at 1219 W. Jefferson Street in West Louisville.
►Contact WHAS11’s Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@whas11.com or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
To see the television of the story, just click the link provided: https://www.whas11.com/article/news/community/moments-that-matter/molo-village-jamesetta-ferguson-west-jefferson-russell-outreach-ministry-africa/417-0abc671e-f2b2-47cd-8007-af312c638a74
Special Report–Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11 Television ABC Louisville
Surekha Kulkarni and her husband moved their family from India in 1986 to Louisville to make sure her young son had every opportunity to be the best he could be. She tells me why she made the sacrifice. “We did not move here for money or fame or fortune we came here because of a school.” Her young son was in kindergarten and she had learned he was dyslexic needed additional educational instruction which the de Paul School in Louisville, Kentucky provided.
We felt it was not a choice really, so we moved a family of four. With no job, no way of knowing but the school was there. And it was actually a totally different experience for me. She says “After moving here, I have experienced so much! I’ve done so much.”
Kulkarni says a recession was going on and all the degrees and experience her husband had still did not help him get a job at first. She says “When he couldn’t get a job. We decided to buy a grocery store so that way we could get food.” They owned and operated the store for years at Oak and Swan Streets called the 828 with no previous experience. She goes on to say that the community embraced and supported them. “They just accepted me but They could not pronounce our names so they changed it I became Sue and Suhas became Sam. So Sue and Sam of the store.”
When not working in the store Kulkarni volunteered at the school. Kulkarni says “So my son started school from day one and we appreciate and let so grateful, I started working in library as a volunteer just a way to give back. That might be what started, my beginnings of volunteering career.”
Within three years, the family was on track which gave her the confidence to say you can do whatever you want. She went to India for a stay and decided to take a jewelry class in her free time. “So, I took this class and I enjoyed it so much that I haven’t stopped” Kulkarni says.
Then The Beaded Treasures Project was created. She volunteered with the Kentucky Refuge Ministries. Where she says, “I found that I really enjoyed it and loved teaching and connecting. It was amazing to see the transformation. Because in the beginning, these women came from various countries, like Iraq, and the Congo. All faced terrible ravages. They were traumatized.”
Beaded Treasures not only generated wealth but generated self-esteem, a sense of purpose and self-sufficiency. Kulkarni says “I saw that not only were they making jewelry, and selling it at the events, five of them started working full time, three of them started working on their education. Some had finished high school and some had a couple of years of college. One of them now has gone back to Nepal. To start a school because growing there was no school in her village.”
In 2019, Beaded Treasures became a part of Volunteers of America. “This was way more that I expected. Quite amazing like. I had somehow became a part of their transformation. Transformation from diffident to confident, and dependent to independent.
I wanted to know what she wanted to remember her by. She says “That I tried! I want people to know that if you just step out of your comfort zone there’s no stopping you. I’m the perfect example of that. We are the ones that hold ourselves back. And we can make a difference. Each one of us can make a difference. Look at me!”
Kulkarni has a new project “Empowering Beads”. It will be a pop-up shop this summer on the weekends in Norton Commons.
►Contact WHAS11’s Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@whas11.com or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
To see the television version of my story, click the link provided:
Special Report: Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11 News, ABC Louisville
The buzz is still in the air from all of the celebrity sightings during Kentucky Derby weekend and other films being shot around the state featuring major Hollywood stars.
Actress Robin Givens is set to return to the area to shoot another film, according to her team.
Her new movie, “The Nana Project” will be shot around the Louisville area.
The storyline is set in a retirement home with a “feisty chess master” played by Academy Award winner Mercedes Ruehl.
Her character Helen “Nana” Lewis has two estranged grandsons Andrew and Cody who will be played by Nolan Gould and Will Peltz.
The family will head out on a road trip to support Nana’s rise to the state championships.
They are expected to begin filming on May 18 and will be here through June 4.
We hear the filming was scheduled for another city, but I have learned Louisville is a good spot.
It could be from the great response that was given to the “The Cookout” that was also filmed in Louisville and directed by Givens.
Submission instructions can be found by clicking the following link: https://www.facebook.com/Alexis-Leggett-Casting-118037106989200
You need to be fully vaccinated for this project. You need to provide proof of vaccination and take a mandatory COVID-19 test upon arrival on your shoot date.
If you get a role in this film, please let me know.
►Contact WHAS11’s Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@whas11.com or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Tucked away on a New Albany street named after his family. Jazz master Jamey Aebersold has been playing music for most of his life. I caught up with him in his studio which is covered with some 15 thousand vinyl albums, thousands of photos which he calls the Smithsonian Jazz Institute of the Midwest. He talks to me about how he was introduced to jazz. He says “Jazz is the coming thing. When I was young, I got my driver’s license at 16. I got me a 35 dollar car. I drove to Louisville, in westend where jazz was playing. Every club had jazz. Rock-n-roll had not been invented yet. Country western wasn’t popular so jazz was basically everywhere. I would go to those places and listen to them. I would wonder what was going on in their minds.
He never liked to stick to the traditional format. Aebersold says “My dad like Dixieland music. I bought some records. Yeah, I liked it but then when I heard Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, I kinda went that way.” As he hand gestured.
He goes on to say “It was years later, I would realize that was the foundation that I needed those scales and cords and the fingering of it, so forth…because that would allow me to play what I heard in my head. (as he hummed a tune) then add a cord to it. That’s how I got started.”
Jamey told me that he was not a good student and the teacher actually returned his money because he just didn’t have the patience to play the standard scales and cords. In his mind, he was just copying what he saw in the music book. He wanted to play what was in his head which we know today as improvisation. When he got older he did receive his formal training and we talked about it. He said, “I went to Indiana University and they didn’t have saxophone but they put me on the woodwind degree. So, I had to take lessons in oboe the flute, the basson, clarinet, and I don’t think I took saxophone lessons from anyone but the second year a guy was getting his graduate degree and they let him give me lessons. I played the first jazz recital at Indiana University which was a big deal back then 1960/61.” He talked about the audience giving his a standing ovation for that performance.
Aebersold was very humble, knowledgeable, and full wisdom that we could of literally stayed with him all day and still would not of been able to cover everything he’s accomplished. He Performing in the all over the world and receiving so many accolades along the way. From receiving the National Endowment for the Arts which is the highest honor given to jazz musicians in the U.S. to receiving the Indiana Governor’s Arts Award by Mitch Daniels. He had a table full of awards, even a letter from the White House from President Barack Obama.
I wanted to know if he thought jazz was a lost art. He responded quickly by saying “No, no, no. I tell you why. When people play jazz they use their imagination. They are very creative and its coming from here to the fingers and that’s not going to stop.”
He says anyone can improvise. He says, “Too many don’t even try because they feel like they are not good enough”.
I wanted to know what would be his legacy. He says there’s to much to do now to worry about the future. There’s still so much to do now. He gave some good advice that he hopes more people would apply to their life and that was to be nice to people.
To learn more about Jamey Aebersold and his Jazz Play-A-Longs, go to jazzbooks.com. you may even see him a classroom if you attend Bellarmine, I-U, or U of L.
Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherlene@sherleneshanklin.com or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
To see the television version of the story. Click the link provided: https://www.whas11.com/article/news/community/moments-that-matter/jamey-aebersold-new-albany-jazz-muscian-beallarmine-uofl-indiana-university-teacher-music/417-c14b168b-979e-430c-b9e6-198f5d81fe57
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
Special Report by Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11, ABC Affiliate
Many may not know the name Julia Youngblood but countless youth and artists know her as the woman who gave them a chance to expand their horizons. I sit down with her to talk about the importance of giving back.
Youngblood is one of the quiet forces in our community making sure the arts is available for anyone whose interested. She worked at the Kentucky Arts Reach program. Dedicating her life to make the community better.
Youngblood says “For the 16 years I took care of it. I really worked on opening up the space more and more for communities especially communities of color or folks that might of felt like they really could walk in that door. I produced 100s of events open mics and many performances on many big stages, all the stages throughout the building.”
Introducing some 50 thousand people to the Kentucky Center for the Arts space that normally would not of had that opportunity. She says “One of my biggest joys was creating culturally related performance pieces that came from the community. It wasn’t me creating those pieces. It was reaching out to the community and saying what do you want to express today. To me that’s extremely powerful.”
Youngblood currently owns Youngblood Harmonizing Arts. She took me to a time in her life when she decided to focus on helping others. She took me back to when she was 20 years old. “A really pivotal part of my life. I lost the ability to walk at the time they thought I had multiple sclerosis . Over time being helped by many other people I was able to get well.” She goes on to say “Once I really got to where I was able to function and walk again I thought that I just want my life to be of service.”
Her unique way of looking at life and understanding that expression is a part of the process when healing a community. She says “A lot of time people feel the need to feel seen and that’s a healing.”
Youngblood admits she’s not outspoken but her now 90 year old mother gave her some advice when she was younger. “Walk into any space and sit down. So that is what I hope for all of us in life that we call all walk in and feel like it okay to be where we are.”
She tells me that her mom and 25 year old daughter Johnny Storm inspire her. She goes onto say she appreciates how her daughter views life. Youngblood, a self-taught artist has an art exhibit with almost 40 pieces ranging from paintings to print on textiles.
Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherlene@sherleneshanklin.com or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
To see the television version of the story, click the link https://www.whas11.com/article/news/community/moments-that-matter/julia-youngblood-harmonizing-arts-lodgic-kentucky-performing-arts-artsreach/417-2988a064-00aa-42cb-b148-694888bc87e8
By Sherlene Shanklin
In today’s Your Story. Their name has changed but their music remains the same bringing all genres of music to West Louisville. I talk to the founder about their success. You recognize them as the West Louisville Boys Choir.
In 1990, McDaniel Bluitt started The West Louisville Performing Arts Academy originally named the Moore Temple Boys Choir. In 2002, the choir expanded by adding girls to the program.
McDaniel says “We started the program because kids needed a way they can be engaged positively and doing the kinds of things that can make them productive members of the community.”
Two current students, Sylvia Lontz and Alexandria Bluitt were introduced to the program differently but both believe it’s an amazing opportunity and everyone feels like family.
Sylvia Lontz is heading to Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) this fall. She says “I personally found out about this choir from my former choir director at Central High School. He introduced it to me. I though it would be an amazing opportunity for me and my younger sister.”
Alexandria Bluitt is currently in high school but understands the importance of legacy. She says “I’ve been in this choir ever since I was 4 or 5 years old. Considering my grandparents started the choir. This choir gave me a sense of family, not because they started it but because of the connections I made with people in this choir.”
The program is a melting pot of talents discovered within each child. A. Bluitt goes on to say “It gives me a sense of structure. For me personally anyway and I believe everyone needs a foundation to build on top of.”
M. Bluitt says “It’s a part of our slogan its more than just music…its more than just singing because children bring with us whatever they have with them at the time. Some have training prior to coming to me while others haven’t.”
They’ve had a chance to travel and perform all over the world from Bahamas to Las Vegas, and all over the state of Kentucky. With that exposure caused some of his former students to think out of the box. Key’mon Murrah & Kay’mon Murrah both participated in the program. As adults they are both classically trained.
Key’mon is moving to New York. He says “I’m going to Juilliard in the fall for a graduate diploma. And then I have me Opera debut this winter.”
Kay’mon remains in the area to help others interested in the arts. He says “I’m working with Kentucky Opera at various events but right now im working as a board member for the public arts commission in Lexington, KY. So that’s been really fulfilling. “
Mr. Bluitt says “Music evolves its never to stay the same.” And so does its leadership. His son Joshua will take the helm and carry on the tradition. Bluitt says he will still be around consulting and help counsel but feels it’s the right time to pass the baton so his son can take the program even further.
McDaniel says “One of the things its accomplishing its helping to dispel the myth in the minds of so many people. Not just Black people, White people m Jewish people not just men but men and women. They get a chance to see the program that’s holistic. They get a chance to see the program as positive and believe it or not got their children in it. That’s ongoing and I’m proud of that.”
Kay’mon says “You have to be open for new things and be willing to absorb it all. I really believe once you start that process you will be able to fly anywhere.”
The West Louisville Performing Arts Academy has a 100% graduation rate and they now enjoy new home for their program. You can now find their studio in the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage at 17th and West Ali. To support go to www.wlpaa.org.
►Contact Your Story’s Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@whas11.com or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
To see the story, click the link below.
By Sherlene Shanklin
Love for community and wanting to see others reach their ultimate potential as an entrepreneur is the goal for Vincel Anthony and the 7PM Group. In today’s Your Story, I spoke to Anthony about holding businesses accountable when it comes to minority construction opportunities.
Vincel Anthony and his mentor Carl Brazley started the 7 PM Group symbolizing the number for perfection in biblical terms and P-M stands for project management.
Anthony says “We’re the glue, the liaison between the owner of the big project and the general contractor who in many cases has been challenged with executing whatever the owner wants to have done.”
He attended Male High School and Western KY University as a student-athlete playing football for the Hilltoppers. Graduating with a Bachelors in Business Administration later receiving his Master’s Degree in information technology, (I-T). He talks about where his focus currently is when it comes to projects. “We wanted to work specifically in our community”.
Many contracts allot a percentage for minority businesses. In construction its 15%. Anthony breaks it down so we can understand how its determined. “Well, Its off of every dollar, 15 cents needs to ideally be spent with a minority business owner. 10 cents of that dollar needs to be spent with a woman owned business owner and that’s is the goal.”
He also adds, “All of this construction you see going on over this community like a lot of urban communities -decent sized cities…Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Nashville there’s cranes everywhere and the challenge is, are minority businesses actually participating.”
Anthony says the community needs to lift as they climb. As you succeed, reach back down and pull someone else up.
“To be intentional when it comes to caring about other people and to really feel in your heart that its really possible for us all to win.”
Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherlene@sherleneshanklin.comor follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
To see the story, click the link below.
By Sherlene Shanklin
The Tokyo Olympics is in the books and Louisville native Ronnie Baker did us proud. He did not bring home any hardware but friends, family and supporters couldn’t be more happy on how he represented U.S.A.
Let’s take a look back at my story on Baker just days before he went to the Olympics.
It’s the race 27 year old Ronnie Baker has dreamed of and trained for all his life. Now, he’s just a few days away from making that dream come true. He tells me he’s a product of West Louisville, JCPS and most of his family lives in Louisville.
Baker says “I went to Ballard and Highland Middle. I lived in the west end and grew up in Village West. My whole family is there actually. My mom, my brother moved back, my sister is there. Pretty much even my extended family is there.”
Baker started with cross country and then later became a sprinter. It all happened after a coach watched him compete.
He says “They saw me run and they were like hey you should go out for the track team. That’s when I started running track. That conversation I had on field day. I always had the speed. I just did not know where to put it.”
Now, he will head to Tokyo but it will be much different than he dreamed. Missing the opening ceremonies due to the flight schedule and no fans. I asked what he needed to run to win gold.
Baker says “I don’t know what it is going to take because Tokyo is going to be different you know Tokyo is not going to have spectators so the atmosphere, kinda the crowd, the energy that’s not going to be there. Crossing multiple time zones and jet lag could be a factor. “
Winning the 100 meters in Monaco, the last big meet before the games. I asked does this put him in excellent position to win gold?
The Olympian says “Absolutely, That race was It was a good momentum booster, motivational. Like… It gives me momentum going into the Olympics. I think it was great for me being there and to experience with all the guys potentially be running against in events as well.”
He goes on to say “This is when you do a lot of light work and focusing on the small, I mean the tiny-ist things that are the difference between gold and silver.”
Ronnie Baker will run in the 100 meters on July 31st and then he will be a member of the four by 100 relay team. Baker’s wife and mom will watch with other families in Orlando at Disney World while his family in Louisville will be apart of a couple of watch parties cheering him onto gold.
I’ve been in contact with Baker this week and he sounded confident and relaxed leading up to the biggest race of his career thus far.
Here’s a fun fact. Former Olympian and Kentucky native Tyson Gay and Baker are cousins. So, running literally “runs” in the family. For “Your Story.”
Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherlene@sherleneshanklin.com or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
To see the story, click the link below.
STARS Youth Enrichment Program will spend the day in Troy, Ohio empowering future leaders
(Troy, OH) With the increased interest in females wanting to participate in sports the STARS Youth Enrichment
Program, (STARS YEP) and the Lincoln Community Center team up to host an all-girls camp. It’s the 2021 Girls Life
Skills and Empowerment Camp. It will be held on Saturday, August 28th from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm at the Lincoln
Community Center located at 110 Ash Street in Troy.
This year’s camp has a vast array of experience when it comes to basketball knowledge and skill set. Former NCAA
coach and Co-author of Skills for Life Mike Jarvis will discuss his personal life experiences and perspectives that camp
attendees need to hear! In addition to Coach Jarvis, the following sports icons will be onsite throughout the day: NBA
star Dale Ellis, former NCAA Women’s assistant coach, Nikita Lowry Dawkins, and NBA scout Don Sellers. Sellers will
make a debut as alter ego: “Professor Basketball”, a motivational, fun-spirited coach who encourages participants to
strive for excellence, will emcee the event.
The camp will also begin to lay the foundation on how the camp participants can begin to prepare themselves with
useful life skills lessons. There will also be plenty of fun, food, music and much more! This camp is free. Registration
begins at 6:30 am with opening ceremonies beginning at 9:00 am.
Jarvis is excited to be a part of the program and encourages others to participate in the camp. “I have the unique
opportunity to teach these young ladies the proper techniques of basketball and teach them the necessary life skills to
be successful. I hope to help inspire them to be the best version of themselves. As a former player and coach, I have
been in their shoes. I can share what worked and did not work that helped to mold me into the person that I am today”.
We would like to thank our program partners Magnified Giving, Never the Less Inc., and the Lincoln Community
Center for working with us to help make the camp a wonderful experience for everyone involved.
If you would like to be a sponsor for this camp and/or another S.T.A.R.S. youth programming activity, please visit our
website at http://www.starsyep.org or email info@starsyep.org. To setup interviews please contact Sherlene Shanklin, VIPP
Communications at 502-341-7306 or by email at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com.
S.T.A.R.S. Youth Enrichment Program (Skills, Talent, Action, Results, and Success) is a unique program that supports
and mentors youth ages 8-15. And a certified 501 ©(3) non-profit organization.
Follow us on social: Twitter: @starsyep; LinkedIn: starsyep-org & Facebook: SHININGSTARSYEP
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*PHOTOS: When you open the story you can see the slideshow of photos courtesy Rudolph family
Special Report by Sherlene Shanklin. WHAS11, ABC Louisville
With the Summer Olympics just weeks away, there was an athlete that changed track and field in the 60s. Did you know that Olympic champion Wilma Rudolph has family in Louisville? I sit down with her nephews who just know her as Aunt Wilma.
She was an Olympic champion, civil rights activist, coach, educator and mom of four. Born Wilma Glodean Rudolph, a premature baby having pneumonia, scarlet fever and polio. At five she wore a leg brace and could barely walk but was later named the fastest woman in the world. She was the first American woman to win three gold medals at one Olympic games back in 1960. Some of Rudolph’s family lives right here in Louisville.
Larry Rudolph, Wilma Rudolph’s nephew tells me how they are related. “I am Wilma Rudolph’s nephew. Wilma and my dad were brothers and sisters.” Larry and Sammy Rudolph tell me there were 22 children in the family. Wilma was number 20 and their dad was the first son. Rudolph was called the Black Pearl, the Chattanooga Choo Choo but if you called her by her childhood nickname you really knew the track and basketball star.
Larry says “Skeeter was her nickname,. They called her Skeeter because she was so small. (Laughter) She was called Skeeter all through college and most people don’t call her Wilma. The ones who really know her called her Skeeter.”
Even as a child she was resilient and turned obstacles into opportunities. Rudolph says “She had polio and had to wear braces the whole nine. More or less they thought she couldn’t walk again but she proved them all wrong. And when she finally got to walk and then run she would always race against the boys, would beat the boys. After a while, boys would never want to race her because they let a girl beat them and she was that fast.”
Sammy did not know his aunt was an international star until he was in fourth grade. Here’s how he found out.
“I called my dad. I’m doing a story on a Wilma Rudolph, he said do you know who that is? No sir, that’s your auntie, that’s my sister. I went back to school telling everybody that Wilma Rudolph was my aunt. I was so proud to have a famous aunt in a book that you read in school. It was just amazing.”
Larry says his dad actually kept Wilma’s three gold medals from the 1960 Olympics in his Louisville home for years. “They were in his basement at one time. I remember going to his house and they were hung up in the basement. They were there for years but to us it was common knowledge and paid no attention it was medals to this day I couldn’t tell you what happen to them.”
Sammy tells me that a young Cassius Clay and Wilma were an item after the Olympics. He talks about the time when they showed up at his school in Louisville.
“Well that’s funny. I used to play basketball for Thomas Jefferson High School my junior year and a big limo pulls up outside Wilma Rudolph and Muhammad Ali at the time was Cassius Clay they came to my school to watch me play ball. I was telling everybody that’s my aunt. You don’t know that woman. I said Aunt Wilma and she came over and gave me a hug and I got to shake Muhammad Ali’s hand.”
This week, Wilma would have been 81 years old. She died in 1994 of cancer. The state of Tennessee recognizes it as Wilma Rudolph Day. I asked how significant is her legacy?
Larry says “For a poor Black woman, little Black girl to come up , reach the status she did equivalent it means a lot to the whole town because she put that town on the map Clarksville, TN was known because of Wilma Rudolph.”
Sammy added by saying “Not only did she win three medals in one games. You realize she was the fastest woman in the world in the 60s. Its amazing. The fastest woman in the world. So she was the GOAT. She was the goat of track and field. Its hard to believe coming from what she went through as a kid. To be the fastest woman in the world. It’s just an amazing story.”
“Her name will live forever”
To see the story, click the following link https://www.whas11.com/video/news/local/wilma-rudolphs-louisville-family-reflects-on-her-legacy/417-9257361c-c952-461b-a6cb-2639d21bc52f
Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherlene@sherleneshanklin.com or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
I’ve covered Muhammad Ali for many years since I’m from his hometown of Louisville, KY. Even receiving an EMMY nomination. When i received that call five years ago preparing me for what was about to happen I will never forget. Then one day later, the champ passes away. Only a handful of people outside the family received that call. I will forever be grateful that the Ali family trusted me as a journalist, a person who really cared and someone that grew up in the same Black neighborhood he grew up in.
Sherlene Shanklin
By Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11 ABC Louisville
Five years ago today, boxing legend and Louisville native Muhammad Ali passed. In today’s Your Story, we remember his legacy. I talk to Marilyn Williams. Ali’s caregiver and sister-in-law who shared some fond and funny moments about the champ.
Williams says “When he would have visitors over to the house he would play possium. He would sit with his eyes closed. He knew if they were leaving he would wake up so they could take pictures and autographs and they were excited. Muhammad knew…everybody knows he was Muhammad Ali is. He’s known around the world and he wanted to know who you are and I thought that was really neat about him.”
Williams got to witness so many things up close that some people had no idea. She remembers one doctor who liked to make house calls to see Muhammad because they both shared a common interest. She says “He would come every other Sunday. Muhammad and I were always watching westerns. And Muhammad always thought he was a Black cowboy. With Kenny Rogers, Willie Nelson and Kris Krostophenson. Those were actually his friends.”
Williams also tells me that legendary musician Sam Cooke and Ali were best friends. I found tons of footage and photos of the two talking about things they were working on even a singing project.
When Marilyn was a teen Muhammad gave her some advice. That she still cherishes. “I got a problem. He said what’s your problem. So, I told him. He said that’s not a problem. And I said its not? To me it is..but he would tell me he said a problem is when you can’t solve it. When you can solve it, it’s not a problem.”
Another fond memory. Marilyn and Muhammad would take rides all over Louisville. She reflects on the reaction when people would recognize him. “We would get in the car we would go in the Westend to Shively the Eastend and we were all over riding and every now and then somebody would notice him and say Muhammad Ali, Muhammad Ali. He would wave and give them that bite like he was going to fight. He would blow them kisses.”
As the family continued to learn about his Parkinson’s diagnosis. They took it one day at a time. Williams says “The only thing I could tell Lonnie at that time was Lonnie were gonna push him as far as we can and eventually he’s going to come back. But if we get him so far he will live long and that exactly what happened”
Williams did get a chance to say goodbye to Ali and she shares a little of what she said to him. She tells me “The last word I said to Muhammad was that he was going to go to heaven. I whispered in his ear and I was going to meet him and they would do this again.”
And still today….
Williams says “His legacy lives on.”
If you have a story about Muhammad Ali you would like to share send it to sshanklin@whas11.com.
►Contact Your Story’s Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@whas11.com or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
To see my story click the link-> https://www.whas11.com/article/news/local/5-years-after-muhammad-ali-death/417-7d8da576-5081-46bd-be9e-d50f737ac8c8
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 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.
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 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.
Special from Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11 ABC Louisville
The Good Doctor’s Hill Harper aka Dr. Marcus Andrews is known for giving medical advice but when he’s not on the set he’s giving guidance on how to create generational wealth.
Hill, a Brown University and Harvard graduate founded the Black Wall Street Digital Wallet which promoted financial independence and economic influence.
Hill also cofounded The Digital Financial Revolution Tour and it will make a stop in Louisville of Sunday, May 23rd from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Club Cedar, 416 South 26th Street.
The financial tour will be virtual but participants will gather at Club Cedar.
To learn more about the tour and the Black Wall Street Digital Wallet go to www.theblackwallstreet.com.
You can watch the Good Doctor’s on Mondays at 10:00 p.m. on WHAS11.
►Contact The 411’s Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@whas11.com or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
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
Sherlene M. Shanklin
May is Asian American and Pacific Islanders Heritage Month. I spoke to a man who was born in Korea but now calls Louisville his home.
Raising a family and teaching our children the art of Taekwondo. In today’s Moments that Matter, I introduce you to Jung Oh Grandmaster Hwang.
I have seen the business & community leader many times but this was the first time I had the opportunity to sit down with him. I had so many questions and he was sincere and patient with me.
Grandmaster Hwang called me before the interview to make sure I found his studio. I told him I was just waiting outside awaiting my photojournalist to arrive. The door swings open and he came out to greet me. He stood out there with me until we were ready to begin.
As we entered Hwang’s Marital Arts we were welcomed by students. They were clapping and cheering as we entered the venue. Once we entered they gave us a demonstration of what they have learned under Hwang. His daughter Mimi was directing the students but he was off to the side giving additional instruction.
Mimi led me to his office so we could sit and talk. I had so many questions. Some of the most simple questions in Asian culture like is it disrespectful to bow when you don’t know the meaning. I have to say he was very patient with me to make sure I understood.
So, when we officially started the interview I asked him to give the pronunciation of his name.
He says “My name is Jung Oh Hwang”. He tells me where he was born. “I’m from South Korea. I come to the United States in 1987 I studied at the University of Tennessee.”
When he was in elementary school in South Korea he started learning taekwondo and judo. Leading him to the Olympics not once but twice. He missed the opportunity of a third because his country sat out. Hwang says “Seoul Korea boycotted the Olympic games so he had to wait for more years for his chance to compete.
1984 changed my life I got a silver medal at that time.”
Hwang also tells me that he was the international referee for his sport in the 1988 Seoul Olympics.
Hwang, his wife Sun and their two year daughter Mimi came to America in 1987. Eventually moving to Louisville and opening three martial arts studios in the city. He says “Louisville is my hometown. I love Louisville. Louisville is the best city. I love Louisville.”
He also loves to teach children the core values of his heritage that we all can relate to regardless of where you are from. “I wanted to give more opportunity to children to learn respect, discipline, and positive attitude. He can do, she can do, why not me? Yes I can positive attitude.”
Grandmaster Hwang believes every person should have the following: Focus, Discipline and Respect this is very very important.
In Asian culture It’s mind and body together. That’s respect. That’s for all Asians especially Marital Arts. Giving over a million dollars to charity like the Crusade for Children, and now starting his own foundation. He just wants to leave a legacy of hope.
Hwang says “I want to share my Olympic three’s. Never, never never give up. You know. Teach the generation they quickly give up. We always never, never, never give up. Yes, I can I can do it!”
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/amp/article/news/community/moments-that-matter/grandmaster-hwang-teaches-his-students-respect-and-discipline-in-louisville/417-8fd30281-40c1-4b7b-8aea-9832046c7f3b
By Sherlene Shanklin
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Kentuckians who may not have known freshman state Rep. Pamela Stevenson likely do following a heartfelt, impromptu speech given as the legislative session came to a close.
The retired Air Force Colonel and associate minister at Oak Grove Baptist Church represents District 43.
As lawmakers worked against the clock to finish bills, veto overrides and other business, Stevenson chose to speak after listening to Rep. Fugate (R-84) during a debate over the partial ban on no-knock search warrants.
“Banning no-knock warrants? That’s not the answer,” Fugate said. “Our society will never get better until we’re allowed to lift up the name of Christ in the public sector again.”
According to Stevenson, Fugate then said, “Life was good in America until 1962 when they took prayer out of the schools. God calls us to love everyone.”
She had decided she was not going to say anything because everything had been said then she heard another representative speak. She said the lawmaker is a friend and pastor but she couldn’t let the moment be lost.
“I start sitting in my seat and I get irritated because in 1962 life for African American and brown people sucked,” Stevenson said. “You could be lynched, raped, you couldn’t walk down the street, you had no freedom.”
She chose respond to the lawmaker who she considers a friend.
“You want to tell me about putting God back in schools? Well, put Christ back in Christians,” Stevenson said. “Don’t you dare ever propose to know what it’s like to be less than, what it’s like to be in a country that disowns you, what it’s like to be lynched, what it’s like to be raped, what it’s like to be a nothing.”
While trying to put her mask back on after the speech, Stevenson said she noticed a crowd beginning to grow around her.
“Other representatives started coming up to me either wanting to hug, saying they didn’t want to break the rules or ‘I want to say thank you,'” Stevenson said. “And my friend who made the statement came to me we had a great, beautiful conversation.”
Stevenson was born and raised in Louisville — her parents still live in her childhood home in West Louisville. She attended Shawnee and graduated from Brown High School before joining the US Air Force.
During her 27 years of service, Stevenson said she lived in 11 different countries and several parts of the United States.
“Then I switched over and became a JAG [Judge Advocate General],” Stevenson said. “So I spent most of my time in the legal world, training people, prosecuting. I was chief criminal defense attorney, negotiating contracts, running my own office and deploying to Croatia, Bosnia and Africa.”
Because she’s traveled the world, Stevenson said she understands the common thread that unites everyone.
“Whether I was In Europe, Africa, the Middle East or California, what I discovered was we all basically want the same thing,” Stevenson said. “They want their children to grow up and be better than them, they want to leave their children something and they want their life to matter.”
Now, she’s using her knowledge to represent a district stretching from Brownsboro Road to the Portland neighborhood and a portion of West Louisville.
“You can’t tell me how things are for me when you don’t know,” Stevenson said. “All people, all lives have different experiences than yours and don’t be presumptive to know you understand. Listen and ask, and then based on what they say — not what you think — come up with a solution.”
Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherlene@sherleneshanklin.com or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
To see television of my story click the link provided -> https://www.whas11.com/article/news/politics/pamela-stevenson-louisville-rep-air-force-colonel/417-e130961a-eb46-4afc-8074-25cf1583b4a5
He’s advised presidents and even held the top post at the National Urban League. Young also had a role in the famous March on Washington more than 50 years ago.
The Lincoln Institute remembers civil rights leader Kentucky native Whitney M. Young Jr.’s and his impact on the Civil Rights Movement
By Sherlene Shanklin
SIMPSONVILLE, Ky. — Whitney M. Young Jr. had the respect of many, especially around the state of Kentucky.
He was an advisor to Presidents John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon.
Young was born on the campus of the Lincoln Institute – a boarding high school for Blacks created by trustees of Berea College after integrated education was outlawed in Kentucky in 1904 due to the Day Law.
“I am not anxious to be the loudest voice or the most popular. But I would like to think that at a crucial moment, I was an effective voice of the voiceless, an effective hope of the hopeless.”.
He served as president for the National Urban League and played a significant role in the Civil Rights movement.
“He was part of the Big 6 and how President Nixon even asked him to be part of his cabinet and he felt like he could do more for us as a race if he used his platform versus being in the cabinet,” Vivian Warren Overall, a retired community member and Lincoln Foundation board of trustee member said.
Young also helped organized the March on Washington for jobs and freedom with his Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity brother, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
His parents also played an important role in history.
“Whitney Young Sr. was the first African American president of Lincoln Institute certainly having his own prominence as well as Whitney Jr.’s mom was the first African American postmaster in Kentucky and second in the nation,” Paula Campbell, development director said.
The permanent exhibit in Young’s childhood home is like taking a journey to the past. Campbell said there’s so much history – not just Kentucky history but US history that’s steeped on the land.
Young died on March 11, 1971 at the age of 49.
“He was overseas in Lagos, Nigeria for a conference and had gone swimming and the story is that he drowned,” Campbell said. “Some suspect that was not the case, including his sister. He was a champion swimmer she does not believe he accidentally drowned.”
Campbell explained there are many people who believe that Young may have been one of the leaders during the movement that may have been assassinated. She said it’s something they will never know because it’s been a big mystery.
“President Nixon sent his personal jet over to bring his body back and at that time – one of the Tuskegee Airmen flew that jet now that was special,” Overall said.
Young’s funeral was held in Kentucky with thousands in attendance which included Rev. Jesse Jackson and Dr. King’s widow, Coretta Scott King. The eulogy was given by President Nixon.
“The funeral procession part of it came back here to the campus and circled the campus. That was his last ride,” Overall said.
What would Young think about the fight for social justice happening now?
“I think this correlation between the 1960’s and now – because all of the things he did to fight for equal rights,” Campbell said.
To see the story click the following link-> https://www.whas11.com/article/news/local/black-history/whitney-m-young-jr-black-history-month-draft/417-edb48591-ade6-4b58-8a16-26bad7b8b721
►Contact The VIPP Report’s Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Special Report by Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11 Television, ABC Louisville
In Today’s ‘Your Story’ organizations and churches are starting to help get the COVID-19 vaccines to those in need. Even though, Little Flock Baptist Church has faced some setbacks due to their unwavering faith they press on.
In the Smoketown community sits the church on South Hancock. It’s pastor Rev. Bernard Crayton tells me of their beginnings which dates back to 1867.
Rev. Bernard Crayton “By newly freed slaves. The church was originally on Ormsby back in that time. They actually put the building on trees and rolled it here to the site on Hancock Street. It’s been a fixture in this community every since. It has a rich, rich, history.”
Growing up in Cleveland Ohio. Being a part of a family of ministers. Rev. Crayton in April 1999 moved to Louisville in hopes of becoming a pastor of his own church.
Crayton says “I never been to Louisville, I’ve been through Louisville but applied for the church Little Flock Baptist Church and when I got here, I knew this was the place I was supposed to be. It’s been a great blessing for the past 22 years.”
With COVID-19, he tells me how he’s been keeping up with his members to see how they are doing? Crayton: “People call in on the prayer line. I have anywhere from 60 something people that will call in. It’s not only my members but people from all over. I mean all over the United States.”
Dealing with the pandemic and protests in the city last summer. The pastor takes a call in the middle of the night that tried to break his spirit. He tells me what was said, “Well, that was just unbelievable. One our members passed by the church and said the church doors had been shot out and I was going, WHAT!. That was right during the time when tensions were high in the city. I just couldn’t believe, I don’t know why but I just couldn’t believe it happened to our church. When I saw where the front door windows had been shot out and bullet holes in the foyer. It really took me back. I had a lot of people not only the black community but the white community in this city. That came and wanted to do whatever they could.”
Turning to his faith, the pastor took a call from a company that wanted to fix their doors free of charge. Whichh renewed his faith. Crayton said, “Even in spite of that there are still a lot of good people in this world.”
So even though the doors of the church remain closed for services. Little Flock wanted to find a way to help. So, they will open their doors Saturday to help its members and the community. Crayton says, “Saturday we are having our own pop up clinic. We have partnered with Norton Healthcare. We have been talking reservations but walk ins will be available. Anyone who wants to come.”
Rev Crayton is trying to reassure people of color to get vaccinated. He says “It comes from those who are just not trusting the govt. Historical things that have happened. It comes from misinformation. It comes from lies. It comes from conspiracy. And we’re trying to break all that down to make sure that people of color understand how important it is especially African Americans understand how important it is to get your shot.”
People of faith have been asking for a sign and the pastor believes this is it. “If you’ve been praying to God about a healing praying this will go away. God has given us the answer. Its right there in front of us. And what you need to do is just trust him. Call in and get your shot. That’s how I see it. That’s how I really see it.”
The church is working on renewed faith that you should never give up regardless of your situation.
Crayton says “What I have tried to preach every single Sunday is HOPE.”
Ending Covid-19 ONE SHOT at a time vaccine clinic“ will be on Saturday, March 20th from 10:00am to 4:00pm at Little Flock Missionary Baptist Church located at 1030 S. Hancock Street. Walk ups are welcomed but if you would like to schedule an appointment call Delane at 502-381-2354 or Charlotte at 502-494-8411.
►Contact Your Story with Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@whas11.com or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
To see the story click the link ->
By Sherlene Shanklin, Special Report with WHAS11, ABC Louisville
After nearly a decade in Louisville, Donald Lassere will leave the Muhammad Ali Center and move back to his hometown of Chicago. In his seat as president and CEO, Laura Douglas.
In ‘Your Story’ I sit down with the respected corporate leader.
To many in the community she is called the stabilizer. Because she helps corporations and non-profits maintain their business practices while stabilizing their leadership.
First, Laura Douglas did it at TARC; now she’s moving to the Muhammad Ali Center; serving as its first Black woman president. Making history in her hometown.
Douglas discusses her family and her close connection to the city. “Well, I grew up here in the Russell neighborhood. I had eight brothers and sisters. We started out at James Bond Elementary School which is now Byck. I went to Western Junior High School and to Shawnee High School.
After graduation, Douglas continued her education to become an attorney. She explained her career path. “I started out my career as a lawyer, I’m a graduate of the University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law and I’ve been a general counsel at several organizations and my most recent position was at LGE and I retired from there. Throughout my career I have always been a volunteer and I’ve always served on a number of boards in the community. And one of the places I invested a great deal of my board serve was here at the Muhammad Ali Center.”
As the immediate past board chair, she is now ready to get the doors of the Ali center reopened. Douglas says “Here at the Muhammad Ali Center the good news is, it’s an outstanding organization with a very impeccable national a reputation. My role is here is to keep the ship steady in the water as the board looks for a permanent CEO. I’m happy to do that”.
Douglas came out of retirement to take on this role, but i wanted to know if she planned to go back into retirement, as she shaped the next generation’s CEO’s at home. Douglas with a smile says “Yes, yes I will. I was a granny and my grandchildren kinda run my life for me.”
Douglas is excited about keeping the Ali Center moving until the national search is completed which could take up to six months. Douglas’ family is happy about her and understand the importance of the position but see what her family thinks her most important title is to them. She says “My family is proud but one thing they remind me every day, I’m just granny as far as they are concerned and I’m mom.”
June will mark the fifth anniversary of Muhammad Ali’s passing. The Ali Festival will honor him with his six core principles: Confidence, Conviction, Dedication, Giving, Respect and Spirituality. I asked Douglas did she expect the opportunities she’s seeing today?
She says “As a small child I know my mother and father encouraged all of us to expand our horizon and to dream big. I’m really fortunate to have the opportunity and to be able to continue to work in a community that I really love
The Muhammad Ali Center will reopen to the public on Thursday, April 1st.
This year’s Ali Festival will be June 4th to the 13th.
The Truth Be Told Temporary Exhibit has been extended to 2022.
The Muhammad Ali Center is located at 144 N. 6th Street, Louisville, KY 40202.
Contact The 411’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/video/news/community/louisville-native-laura-douglas-named-muhammad-ali-centers-interim-president/417-738e504a-52d4-47fb-8bdd-f03f6ffcf312
Special Report from Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11, Louisville
Orginially aired on January 14, 2021
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — On Sunday, Muhammad Ali would have been 79.
On June 3rd, 2016 Ali passed away and thousands lined the streets of Louisville to thank the champ who was not only a boxing champion but an activist and philanthropist respected by many across the world.
For the first time, in an exclusive interview, WHAS11 talked to the person who was his childhood friend, caregiver and sister-in-law. You saw her in many photos over the years.
Now, Whas11’s Sherlene Shanklin tells you her story of the Champ you didn’t know.
Marilyn Williams says “Muhammad’s mother Odessa Clay and my mother Marguerite Williams were best friends.”
Their families were very close. As a child, she looked up to him as a big brother having no idea that years later she would call him her brother-in-law.
‘Lonnie Ali is my big sister,” Williams said.
Prior to working with family, she was a successful entrepreneur owning her own salon and then worked at the Ford Plant right here in Louisville.
So, when Lonnie was looking for someone to help with their business affairs and later assist Ali and with his Parkinson’s diagnosis, Marilyn was the perfect choice to be his caregiver while some even thought she was their bodyguard.
“I was his security because if you got close to Muhammad you were in trouble if you weren’t supposed to be there,” said Williams.
She talked to me about being a caregiver for Ali. “I knew I had to do the best I could do. I had to be the best. I had to be on it. I knew this man. I knew him ever since I was a child so I had to be on it.”
People always asked, could he speak after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s? Williams said, “Muhammad could smile, stars eyes would just sparkle and he talked a lot with his eyes, he talked with his voice, his hands. He definitely got his message across.”
Anytime ‘the Champ’ could get home he did and Marilyn shared this fond memory.
“Muhammad loved Louisville. You say Louisville if I was working and I said I was going on vacation. Where are you going? I said I’m going to Louisville. I wanna go.”
I also asked Williams could she tell me something about Ali people didn’t know. She sighs before answering–“Muhammad and Lonnie will say this too. He had a kind and loving heart. He saw nothing wrong with no one. He would be with kings and queens, presidents and then turn around and be with the poorest person on this earth or the sickest person on this earth. It didn’t matter to him. He loved all.”
To see everything happening in Louisville sometimes even along the street that bears his name and across the country how does that make you feel?
“Well I can’t actually speak for Muhammad because he can speak for himself but a few things he taught me and that was respect for all mankind. One thing I asked him, I was always asking him questions when I was younger growing up and he told me that there’s good and bad in every race and every religion. There’s good and bad,” Williams said.
The final question of the interview I had to ask what she misses the most about the GOAT?
With tears in her eyes, she responded by saying “His eyes, his kindness, his spirit, his spirit was so beautiful. To be around him he gave you energy. Even if there was a gray day outside he made the sunshine.”
I had to use the video one more time of Louisville’s own, the man who had no problem telling you “I’m still the greatest!!!”
Link to the WHAS11 story https://www.whas11.com/article/news/local/muhammad-ali-caregiver-marilyn-williams-talks-greatest-of-all-time-goat-champ/417-b3ecdbeb-97b1-4062-9e01-ecf439074c89
Since the story aired on WHAS11, an ABC/Tegna affiliate here’s some of the other stations that picked up my story:
King5.com, 11Alive.com, WTHR.com, 12newsnow.com, ksdk.com, WUSA9.com, kentuckydailynews.com, firstcoastnews.com, kcentv.com, wkyc.com, wfmynews2.com, WLTX.com and MSN.com.
STARRING MARK CURRY, BERNADETTE STANIS AND ALEXIA FAITH ROBERTS
(Los Angeles, California) As we remember the significant contributions of the past during Black History Month. In 2021, there’s businesses and people working behind the scenes to continue the legacy.
Ericka Nicole Malone Entertainment, LLC is working to bring positive images from Black actors to the big screen. Their latest project, ‘Dream from the Edge’. The short film tells the story of a young girl by the name of Davina, (Alexia Faith Roberts) who tries to embrace her uniqueness. Davina sets to make it in Hollywood and follow her dreams, facing many obstacles attempting to derail her, including emotional challenges from her mother, Rose (Bernadette Stanis). It speaks to difficulties we often face in work/life balance.
Writer, Director and Executive Producer of the short film, Ericka Nicole Malone says ‘Dream from the Edge’, is more than a young Black woman following her dream but it speaks about the inclusiveness of people who may be different but they are the very people who make our society so unique. I wanted that to be reflected in this film. With the challenges Black Americans face on a daily basis I wanted to write a story that humanizes us in a very real way. I wanted to create a story where we have dreams, we thrive, we fall, we rise, so that people could understand our lives and dreams matter. Just the history alone of the actors in this film shows that Black people in entertainment have played a vital role in this industry and helped this film come to life.’
The international short film drama also stars Mark Curry and Bernadette Stanis. You’ve seen both stars’ programs that shaped the stories of Black families. Curry on ‘Hanging with Mr. Cooper’ and Stanis on ‘Good Times’. Grammy Award winning writer producer “Printz Board” co-producer/writer of super music group, The Black Eyes Peas hit “Where Is The Love” is Music Supervisor. Dreams from the Edge’ can be seen in film festivals across the world.
ERICKA NICOLE MALONE ENTERTAINMENT is a production company focused on the development, production/co-production and distribution of film, television, and animated projects nationwide. In addition to Dreams From The Edge her latest project is film “Remember Me: The Mahalia Jackson Story” starring Ledisi, Columbus Short, Janet Hubert, Keith David, Wendy Raquel Robinson, and Keith Robinson.
To setup an interview, contact Sherlene Shanklin at VIPP Communications at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com. To read learn more on the Ericka Nicole Malone Entertainment go to www.erickanicolemalone.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 how we can assist you at info at vippcommunications dot com. www.vippcommunications.com
For the FIRST time, his life-long caregiver sits down with me for more than a hour telling me things so many people have no idea about the ‘Greatest of All Time’. This is just a small portion of my interview that I wanted to share.
Special Report by Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11, ABC Louisville
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — On Sunday, Muhammad Ali would have been 79.
On June 3rd, 2016 Ali passed away and thousands lined the streets of Louisville to thank the champ who was not only a boxing champion but an activist and philanthropist respected by many across the world.
For the first time, in an exclusive interview, WHAS11 talked to the person who was his childhood friend, caregiver and sister-in-law. You saw her in many photos over the years.
Now, Whas11’s Sherlene Shanklin tells you her story of the Champ you didn’t know.
Marilyn Williams says “Muhammad’s mother Odessa Clay and my mother Marguerite Williams were best friends.”
Their families were very close. As a child, she looked up to him as a big brother having no idea that years later she would call him her brother-in-law.
‘Lonnie Ali is my big sister,” Williams said.
Prior to working with family, she was a successful entrepreneur owning her own salon and then worked at the Ford Plant right here in Louisville.
So, when Lonnie was looking for someone to help with their business affairs and later assist Ali and with his Parkinson’s diagnosis, Marilyn was the perfect choice to be his caregiver while some even thought she was their bodyguard.
“I was his security because if you got close to Muhammad you were in trouble if you weren’t supposed to be there,” said Williams.
She talked to me about being a caregiver for Ali. “I knew I had to do the best I could do. I had to be the best. I had to be on it. I knew this man. I knew him ever since I was a child so I had to be on it.”
People always asked, could he speak after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s? Williams said, “Muhammad could smile, stars eyes would just sparkle and he talked a lot with his eyes, he talked with his voice, his hands. He definitely got his message across.”
Anytime ‘the Champ’ could get home he did and Marilyn shared this fond memory.
“Muhammad loved Louisville. You say Louisville if I was working and I said I was going on vacation. Where are you going? I said I’m going to Louisville. I wanna go.”
I also asked Williams could she tell me something about Ali people didn’t know. She sighs before answering–“Muhammad and Lonnie will say this too. He had a kind and loving heart. He saw nothing wrong with no one. He would be with kings and queens, presidents and then turn around and be with the poorest person on this earth or the sickest person on this earth. It didn’t matter to him. He loved all.”
To see everything happening in Louisville sometimes even along the street that bears his name and across the country how does that make you feel?
“Well I can’t actually speak for Muhammad because he can speak for himself but a few things he taught me and that was respect for all mankind. One thing I asked him, I was always asking him questions when I was younger growing up and he told me that there’s good and bad in every race and every religion. There’s good and bad,” Williams said.
The final question of the interview I had to ask what she misses the most about the GOAT?
With tears in her eyes, she responded by saying “His eyes, his kindness, his spirit, his spirit was so beautiful. To be around him he gave you energy. Even if there was a gray day outside he made the sunshine.”
I had to use the video one more time of Louisville’s own, the man who had no problem telling you “I’m still the greatest!!!”
Here’s the link to the story. -> https://www.whas11.com/article/news/local/muhammad-alis-caregiver-marilyn-williams-talks-greatest-of-all-time-goat-champ/417-b3ecdbeb-97b1-4062-9e01-ecf439074c89
Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherlene@sherleneshanklin.com or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Sherlene Shanklin
December 31, 2020
What can you say about 2020? I call it the year of the ‘thick’ skin. We have endured a lot. Every generation faces the unthinkable and you wondered how did they make it? Now, we have a story to tell. Especially those of color who’ve privately faced obstacles of discrimination for many years. From being overlooked, told they were not good enough, why can’t you just work one job, you do too much, and why do you work in your community so much with no pay helping people you don’t even know.
If I ask that question, the majority of you will say ‘What I went to school for I was never given the chance to see where it could take me.’ Some will also point out that they never reached their ultimate potential and that’s why they had to utilize their skills in other ways.
Some employers hire people of color and then leave it there with no further action. Regardless, how hard you try you can never get ahead. Then you realize that you’ve wasted valuable years being faithful to someone who could care less about your progression. So, instead of letting your skillset go, you find alternatives to keep them sharp.
When protests broke out across the country especially in my city of Louisville so many individuals thought to themselves, ‘So I’m not the only one?’ Feeling like you’re facing situations alone and that became a defining moment that you’re not.
When people begin to speak out it gave those suffering in silence some hope. Even if you didn’t see them marching in the streets. There’s a lot of people in their workplace trying to change the culture even putting their careers on the line. In offices, boardrooms, and in closed door meetings people are speaking up & finally being asked their opinion. The invitation to the table will bring a long term foundation instead of a quick fix. There’s so many working behind the scenes and do not want the credit. Find your place and let’s all help make a difference.
As we head into the new year, how do we juggle our emotions? Pinned up anger while you’re still working at a high level. Its been a year of sickness, death, and heartache. While many want people to forget we have to remember how we got here so that we don’t let history repeat itself again.
Ed Hamilton named Louisvillian of the Year
(Louisville, KY) You’ve seen his works from The Amistad, Muhammad Ali’s steel boxing gloves both in Louisville, The African American Civil War Memorial, ‘Spirit of Freedom’ in Washington to the Unfinished March of the late Dr. Martin Luther King in Newport News. Now, the American Advertising Federation of Louisville announces that Ed Hamilton will receive the “Louisvillian of the Year” award.
Hamilton is receiving the award for his outstanding achievement and generous personal contributions in the areas of civic, educational and business. The sculptor only needed to possess only one of the three, but this talented humanitarian is a true community ambassador who works tirelessly who in turn is an inspiration to so many within Louisville and communities around the U.S. The national acclaimed sculptor gives his time and talents.
Ed Hamilton says “As a citizen of Louisville, KY, I’m proud and honored to have been chosen as the recipient of the 2020 Louisvillian of the Year award. I know I owe my success to many who saw my talent during the early years of my artistic journey.
It is in the spirit of family, parents that adopted me and are now deceased, Edward Norton and Amy Jane Camp Hamilton. They raised me to have respect for all people, the value of hard work and development of moral values. This enabled me to extend myself into the Louisville community.
To the love of my life and soul mate of 54 years of marriage, Bernadette, I seriously believe if not for her love and support, I would not be the man, the father, or the artist that I am today. How lucky I am to be alive today.
I extend blessings to all past recipients and indeed I’m in good company.”
Other works Hamilton has designed is the 16th President of the United States and Kentucky native Abraham Lincoln with the Lincoln Memorial which is located along the Ohio River in downtown Louisville. He’s known for but not limited to is The Booker T. Washington Memorial in Hampton, VA, Joe Louis Memorial in Detroit, MI, and the Amistad Memorial in New Haven, CT just to name a few of the many works you can visit around the U.S.
To learn more about Ed Hamilton and his works contact, Sherlene Shanklin with VIPP Communications for appearance and speaking engagement availability 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. www.vippcommunications.com
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.
►Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherleneshanklin@gmail.com or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
By Sherlene Shanklin
Early this morning, former U.S. President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama released a statement on the passing of Rep. John Lewis. He died on Friday, July 17th from pancreatic cancer at the age of 80.
Here’s an excerpt from the 44th President of the United States: “Not many of us get to live to see our own legacy play out in such a meaningful, remarkable way. John Lewis did. And thanks to him, we now all have our marching orders — to keep believing in the possibility of remaking this country we love until it lives up to its full promise.”
Obama also says “John Lewis — one of the original Freedom Riders, chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, the youngest speaker at the March on Washington, leader of the march from Selma to Montgomery, Member of Congress representing the people of Georgia for 33 years — not only assumed that responsibility, he made it his life’s work. He loved this country so much that he risked his life and his blood so that it might live up to its promise. And through the decades, he not only gave all of himself to the cause of freedom and justice, but inspired generations that followed to try to live up to his example.”
To read the full statement Barack and Michelle Obama statement
►Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherleneshanklin@gmail.com or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Rep. John Lewis
By Sherlene Shanklin
Late Friday evening, word spread quickly about the passing of Civil Rights icon and Congressman John Lewis.
The “conscious” of the U.S. Congress died from pancreatic cancer at the age of 80.
The Freedom Rider attended Fisk University and when he was not in class he was leading demonstrations and sit-ins.
Within the last two hours the following statements were released.
Former President Barack Obama says “When I was elected President of the United States, I hugged him on the inauguration stand before I was sworn in and told him I was only there because of the sacrifices he made. And through all those years, he never stopped providing wisdom and encouragement to me and Michelle and our family. We will miss him dearly.”
The Congressional Black Caucus says “The world has lost a legend; the civil rights movement has lost an icon, the City of Atlanta has lost one of its most fearless leaders, and the Congressional Black Caucus has lost our longest serving member. The Congressional Black Caucus is known as the Conscience of the Congress. John Lewis was known as the conscience of our caucus. A fighter for justice until the end, Mr. Lewis recently visited Black Lives Matter Plaza in Washington DC. His mere presence encouraged a new generation of activist to “speak up and speak out” and get into “good trouble” to continue bending the arc toward justice and freedom.”
Bill and Hillary Clinton say “We have lost a giant.”
Speaker Nancy Pelosi says “Today, America mourns the loss of one of the greatest heroes of American history: Congressman John Lewis, the Conscience of the Congress.
The Lewis family tried to hold the news of his passing because Dr. Martin Luther King’s lieutenant C.T. Vivian also of Atlanta, Georgia passed away earlier in the day. Out of respect for the Vivian family they were trying to wait.
To learn more on Rep. John Lewis’ life and countless accomplishments go to https://johnlewis.house.gov/.
►Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherleneshanklin@gmail.com or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
By Sherlene Shanklin
(Louisville, KY) Protesters continue to walkout of jail after being arrested Tuesday afternoon.
Love and Hip Hop star and activist Yandy Smith along will some 80 plus others were arrested for demonstrating in front of Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron’s home.
I received these photos from Nicole Hayden. The Louisville activist has been participating in protests for weeks asking for justice in the Breonna Taylor case.
Hayden is with Smith and Porsha Williams as they wait for other protesters to be released.
Let me take you back to why the protesters came to the city. On March 13th just before 1:00 am on Springfield Drive, Breonna Taylor was shot multiple times after LMPD executed a no-knock search warrant. The 26 year old died from her injuries.
Protests started in Louisville on May 29th and they continue to this day.
The investigation is currently in its fourth month and is in the hands of the Kentucky Attorney General’s office and the FBI.
Follow me for up to date information on the Breonna Taylor case.
►Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherleneshanklin@gmail.com or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
By Sherlene Shanklin
After a long night, reality star and activist Porsha Williams exits Louisville Metro Corrections around 3:30 am.
She along nearly 90 others were arrested Tuesday afternoon for demonstrating in front of Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron’s home.
I just received this photo of Williams as she walks out of jail. There was a crowd of people on the exterior of the jail waiting for Williams and other protesters.
The Bravo star is in Louisville seeking justice for Breonna Taylor.
Credit: Louisville Metro Corrections
HIP-HOP ARTIST R. PROPHET IS FINALLY READY TO SHARE HIS ENCOUNTER WITH POLICE THAT LEFT HIM CHARGED, HOSPITALIZED AND UNKNOWN FATE
It’s a story of survival when he felt like he was in a fight for his life
(Atlanta, GA) We’re hearing their stories of racism and police brutality leaving many horrified that they never noticed before now. Today, you hear the names George Floyd and Breonna Taylor plus countless others. Many lost their life and we will never be able to hear their stories but there’s some survivors. Let me take you back to April 2013 where, two-time Grammy nominated hip-hop/rap artist Ryan “R. Prophet” encountered law enforcement on a Kentucky road. He shares his story and the things he’s been dealing with since that night.
In Prophet’s new book, “Grams to Grammy”, it takes you back to that early morning safety checkpoint where things escalated leaving Ryan in the hospital, arrested, charged with third-degree assault, resisting arrest, and menacing among other the charges for the former member of Nappy Roots. He also gets candid about what happens when these traumatic incidents take place. Prophet can explain first-hand the affects it causes. From expressing anger, to depression followed by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Currently, the book is charted as #1 new best seller on Amazon as part of the #sfirmcelebrityseries. It’s filled with issues that many in the African American community face but often times rarely discussed from mental illness to living in impoverished neighborhoods where people feel like there’s a target on their back.
Prophet shared his experience with several media outlets shortly after the incident but has rarely spoken publicly until now.
Prophet, an advocate against police brutality feels like he needs to take a stance and talk about his experience of being tased some 15 times at the hands of Kentucky State Police. His case did not go through the judicial process, but it was reported but not confirmed by involved parties that he was awarded a one million-dollar judgment.
To setup an interview with R. Prophet and/or any other media inquiries please contact Sherlene Shanklin with VIPP Communications at info@vippcommunications.com.
Be sure to stay connected with R. Prophet on all social media platforms. Facebook.com/rprophetofficial and Instagram.com/rprophetofficial
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About R. Prophet:
Prophet is an American Rapper, Actor and TV personality. Known by most as the former lead of Grammy Nominated Group, Nappy Roots, R. Prophet has been changing the music scene since the early 2000s. Currently R. Prophet is developing hip hop educational tools for children. He has also been acting and recording his solo album with hopes to raise awareness of police brutality. One of R. Prophet’s biggest honors, in addition to being nominated for two Grammys, is the appointment to the Board & Advisory Council of the Muhammad Ali Center where he serves as the youngest member alongside Diddy, Denzel Washington and more. Stay tuned for more to come with Rap Artist and Actor R. Prophet.
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. www.vippcommunications.com
WE’RE AT THE POST WITH THE STALLION AND THE KING OF THE SOUTH PERFORMING AT DERBY SOUNDSTAGE 2020
(Louisville, KY) The Twins Spires at Churchill Downs are always a main attraction when travelling to Louisville for the Kentucky Derby, but this year another duo will also be demanding the attention of Derby-goers. Multi-Grammy award winner T.I. and rising hip-hop superstar Megan Thee Stallion will gallop their way to the Bluegrass State to co-headline Derby Soundstage 2020. The concert will be held on Thursday, April 30th in Freedom Hall at the Kentucky Fair and Expo Center located at 937 Phillips Lane at 8:00 p.m.
T.I. is an actor and entrepreneur known for his southern rap and ‘Trap Music’ with masterful lyrics. He has a lengthy catalog, which includes Billboard #1 hits like ‘Whatever You Like,’ ‘My Love,’ and ‘Live Your Life,’ just to name a few.
Megan Thee Stallion has skyrocketed to stardom amid the 2019 releases of her first full-length mixed-tape ‘Fever’ and hit song ‘Hot Girl Summer.’ These projects earned her a 2019 BET Hip Hop Award and an MTV Video Music Award. Megan has stamped her reputation as a hit-maker with songs like ‘Simone Says,’ ‘Diamonds,’ and ‘Realer.’
Derby Soundstage is produced by The Livsuite. Tickets start at $50 and go on sale Friday, March 6th at 10am at ticketmaster.com.
To obtain media credentials you must be an accredited media outlet and will need to fill-out a form to enter the concert and be staged in the media section. To receive consideration contact 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. www.vippcommunications.com
With an over-the-top couture fashion show led by a Project Runway designer and entertainment by a Grammy Award nominated artist the Grandstand Gala is a sure bet
(Louisville, KY) The Stamina Foundation is happy to announce their inaugural Grandstand Gala during Kentucky Derby weekend in Louisville, KY. As racing fans begin to arrive in the city, they will find out that this event on Thursday, April 30th will set the tone for style influencers trying to make a fashion statement during the Run for the Roses. The Grandstand Gala will take place at the Kentucky International Convention Center, (KICC) Ballroom at 7:00 p.m. located at 221 S. 4th Street.
The lavish Derby event will have a red-carpet entrance as partygoers enjoy a runway style show featuring Project Runway’s Season 17 and Louisville native Frankie Lewis’, Frankie Lew Demi-Couture Collection. The designer will debut her summer collection with one of a kind pieces. We will give you an exclusive look periodically showing you the designer working and creating right up until the models hit the runway Derby week.
Frankie Lew Is a demi couture fashion house that specializes in artistic clothing for every occasion. Guests should feel free to be bold and make a statement. Unconventional materials are our favorite because they destroy the limits of fashion and expression. Join us in a night of wearable art and fashion freedom.
Dr. Ashley Anderson, co-founder of the Grandstand Gala understands that the world not only watches the “Run for Roses” but for its unique and bold style. She says “The Kentucky Derby is known across the world for its fashion! This event pays homage to that by tapping Project Runway Designer and Louisville’s own, Frankie Lewis to provide inspiration for attendee attire and by putting designs from artists, designers and boutiques on display in a live fashion exhibition. We couldn’t be more excited about this event.”
Grammy Award nominated artist Raheem DeVaughn will be the Grandstand Gala’s featured entertainer. The R&B and Neo Soul artist known as “Radio Raheem” and “The Love King” continues to make great music with hits like “Woman”, “Just Right”, “You”, “Ridiculous” and his latest hit the “Love Reunion” is his seventh studio album entitled by the same name.
The singer/songwriter will take Derby fans through a love experience as we countdown Kentucky Derby 146. DJ Reggie Reg will provide entertainment throughout the evening.
During the gala, NBA champion and Louisville native Derek Anderson and his wife, entrepreneur and community leader Dr. Ashley Anderson will present this year’s Grandstand Gala 2020 award honorees. The AOK Inspiration Award will be presented to Allan Houston, former NBA all-star. The AOK Commitment to the Community Award will be presented to Nicole Hayden, founder of Friends of Nicole 50/50 Mentoring Collaborative, Inc.
Houston, a Louisville native played in the NBA for 12 seasons in which he played for the New York Knicks nine of those seasons. He also won a gold medal at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia. The two-time NBA all-star shooting guard retired and currently serves as special assistant to the general manager for the Knicks and the general manager of the Westchester Knicks, the Knicks’ G League team. He’s not being honored for his accomplishments on the court but what he’s done off the court as a humanitarian through the Allan Houston Legacy Foundation and the Allan Houston Mentoring Initiative. Houston is married to Tamara Houston and they have seven children.
Hayden, a Louisville native and Miss Plus America 2014 works tirelessly to educate the community with the resources and information needed to build confidence and leadership skills essential for transitioning youth through their educational journey. The Founder & President of Friends of Nicole 50/50 Mentoring Collaborative Inc. gives her opportunities to be a role model. Her #IOWNCONFIDENCE campaign motivates and inspires not only locally but nationally.
Derek Anderson, co-founder of the Grandstand Gala says “We’re so excited to bring a new event to our city. The Grandstand Gala will offer the unique opportunity to celebrate Derby week and support the local fashion scene while supporting the mission and programming of the Stamina Foundation within the community.”
Tickets are $150 for individual tickets and they can be purchased on Eventbrite. To reserve a table and/or to be a sponsor contact DrA@AshleyDAnderson.com.
Proceeds from the inaugural Grandstand Gala held on Thursday, April 30th at the KICC benefit the programs of the Stamina Foundation. The foundation is a 501©3 organization with the mission to empower youth and young adults with the resources and life skills they need to follow their dreams.
The Stamina Foundation will pursue this mission with educational programming and events throughout the year, but the first major project will be the development of the Stamina Academy. The purpose of the Stamina Academy is to teach life 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.
Youth today are greatly influenced by their peers and social media. Without proper guidance or a positive infrastructure, they tend to go down a bad road, which results in negative, long-term life consequences. Stamina will teach youth to identify and pursue their passions and to focus on being great instead of trying to fit in. For additional information go to http://www.staminafd.com.
To obtain media credentials and/or to setup interviews contact Sherlene Shanklin, VIPP Communications at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com. ***Stay tuned for special guest announcements. ***
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musi#EverythingisAOK
By Sherlene M. Shanklin
With scholarship as their main objective, the Chestnut Street Family YMCA Black Achievers program announces their keynote speaker for their 41st celebration.
Miss USA 2016 DeShauna Barber will be the keynote speaker. The U.S. Army Reserve Captain will motivate young aspiring leaders to stay disciplined as they follow their dreams even when there’s a hardship not to stop trying to reach their goals.
Youth Achiever of the Year is Tajalia Tillman who attends DuPont Manual High School.
The 41st YMCA Black Achievers Celebration will be held on Saturday, February 22nd at the Galt House Hotel at 5:30pm. Tickets are $100 per person and they can be purchases and the Chestnut Street YMCA or by emailing ljohnson@ymcalouisville.org.
The YMCA Black Achievers Program includes events such as Spring Break College Tours, Community Service Projects, Leadership training, ACT workshops, college & career fairs plus much more.
I have the great honor of announcing the scholarships and institutions they plan to attend. For many families, this will be the first time they will hear the school and the amount of scholarship money their child will receive. It’s truly an exciting moment and I have to say that when I received the long list of names and the amount of money they will get in scholarships it’s super impressive and I can only imagine what their families will feel on Saturday.
Congratulations to the scholars of the Chestnut Street Family YMCA Black Achievers. Our future is in great hands with your leadership.
Saadiq writes about real-life situations that no one wants to talk about but necessary for healing and you get a chance to hear him live at Paristown Hall
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — It’s exciting to see how much the entertainment circuit has grown over the years in the Bluegrass market. All types of genres, all forms of art and of course the area has some top notch venues.
Grammy Award winning R & B musician, songwriter and the man artists go to for collaborations will be in Louisville for a concert.
Raphael Saadiq will be at the Old Forester Paristown Hall on Monday, February 17th. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. and the show will begin at 8:00 p.m. with some new music off of his latest solo project, Jimmy Lee. It was released in August.
The former member of Tony! Toni! Tone! entitled the album after his late brother who died of a heroin overdose. Through music, Saadiq will take you through the journey of addiction and later loss which many times causes confusion and sadness.
Over Saadiq’s 40 year career, he has many chart-topping hits from “Something Keeps Calling”, “Good Man” to “Ask of You”. He’s produced songs for John Legend, Solange Knowles, TLC, En Vogue and the late Whitney Houston.
General admission tickets are $35.00 but if you feel like a V.I.P. experience that evening they have a premium ticket which will cost you a little more. Also, there’s a meet and greet ticket available.
KENTUCKY NATIVE AND CEO OF DB BOURBON INVITED TO WHITE HOUSE TO BE RECOGNIZED AS A GAMECHANGER IN BUSINESS
(FRANKFORT, KY) In honor of Black History Month, DB Bourbon Candy’s CEO Robyn Stuart is invited to the White House in Washington, DC on Friday, February 21st to celebrate black entrepreneurship.
There will be a summit where Stuart and other business owners from all over the U.S. 
will get the opportunity to meet high ranking federal agency representatives and discuss the expansion of contracting opportunities for minority-owned businesses and the creation of more mentorship programs for minority entrepreneurs to collaborate with the private sector.
Stuart, a native of Lexington, KY will participate in a summit that begins at 7:30am. Later in the date, at 5:00pm there will be a reception. She says “The doors of opportunity just keep opening for me and my business. I’m excited to represent the Commonwealth of Kentucky at the White House for this once in a life chance during Black History Month. I plan to learn common practices of other successful businesses, then come home, implement and help others who are wanting a chance to grow their business.”
DB Bourbon Candy, LLC can be found in various locations throughout Kentucky from the Kroger Company to the Muhammad Ali International Airport. To learn more about Robyn Stuart and DB Bourbon Candy and how to place your customized order visit http://www.dbbourboncandy.com.
If you would like to setup an interview and/or invite DB Bourbon to your next event, please contact Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin at vippcommunications dot com.
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History
In 2002, Stuart started her business after the passing of her mother Johnnye S. Cunningham During the holidays, her mother would create the delicious treat as a family tradition. Robyn wanted to honor her mother, so she decided to start the business and make the original candy recipe apart of her business. With the support of Four Roses Distillery, Louisville Convention Center and Bourbon Country as well as the many events and activities she participates in everyone loves to see the wonderful creation that she produces. From initially starting with candy the business has grown into developing other products such as chocolate covered fruit, bourbon cheesecakes to chocolate covered popcorn.
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. http://vippcommunications.com
There’s some shows that you just can’t turn away from. I’m surfing the channels and I always have to stop on MTV’s Wild N’ Out. I consider myself pretty knowledgeable when it comes to pop culture but I literally learn something new every time I watch that show. It’s a rap and comedy battle on steroids, performances by top artists and the latest in trends. With its resurgence of the show Nick Cannon has decided to hit the road.
Save the date of Tuesday, March 24th for Wild N’ Out in Lexington, KY. The show will be held in Rupp Arena.
Fans of the show can expect some standup as well as some music performances. Some of the cast members you will get to see on tour, DC Young Fly, Karious Miller, Emmanuel Hudson, Justina Valentine and DJ D-Wreck. The 27-city tour kicks off in March with the lineup changing up for each city along with some surprise guests.
Tickets start around $30.00. You can purchase tickets at LiveNation.com, Ticketmaster.com and the Lexington Center Ticket Office.
If you have a story idea, send it to me at thevippreport@vippcommunications.com. Follow us on Twitter @thevippreport @vippcomm.
Many were able to maintain some type of normal routine while some have had their lives and livelihood turned upside down.
Brain fogs, panic attacks and sleepless nights worrying about the well-being of family and friends have been draining.
How is your mental health? I have tried yoga and could not concentrate long enough to keep it going. I started reading but only read in spurts. I listen to music, all genres to help calm my soul. I found writing down my feelings and then crumbling it up and throwing it away helped instantly but have no long term benefits.
We are so bogged down with a ray of emotions and with no expiration date for this timeline on the pandemic and social unrest.
What have you’ve been doing in the past year to keep your sanity?
By Sherlene M. Shanklin
On September 25th at the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage they hosted An Extraordinary Evening with Dr. Lonnie Bunch.
Dr. Bunch is the 14th Secretary of the Smithsonian Institute. That consists of 19 museums, nine research centers and the National Zoo. He was previously the founding director of the National Museum of African American History.
The Heritage Center is located a 1701 W. Muhammad Ali Boulevard in Louisville, Ky.
See link for my WHAS11.com photo gallery Dr. Lonnie Bunch in Louisville, Ky
The VIPP Report 