Muhammad Ali, the Greatest of all Time & Louisville native would have celebrated his 84th birthday today

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Special Report by Sherlene Shanklin

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — 84 years ago today the ‘Greatest of All Time’ (GOAT) was born as Cassius Clay, who the world would know as Muhammad Ali. The professional boxer, activist, humanitarian and global icon grew up with his brother Rahaman in Louisville, both attending Central High School.

Ali started boxing at the age of 12. Just a few years later at the age of 18, he competed in the 1960 Summer Olympics, winning the gold medal for the lightweight division.

He joined the Nation of Islam in the early 1960’s.

On February 25, 1964, Ali won the world heavyweight championship at the age of 22 defeating Sonny Liston which was considered an upset.

Ali had 61 fights, winning 56, 37 of those victories were by KO.

Ali, a father of nine children, died on June 3, 2016, at the age of 74, bringing thousands to Louisville just to be close to his hometown.

His legacy continues to live on from the Muhammad Ali Center, his childhood home, family and friends. Earlier this week, the ‘People’s Champ’ finally received a United State Postal Service, (USPS) stamp. In true Ali fashion, he’s knocking out records by selling out in multiple post offices in just a few days of its unveiling.

Muhammad Ali’s contributions, strength and legacy continues to live on.

The Muhammad Ali Center located at 144 N. 6th Street built in 2002 is a six story almost 97,000 square foot museum and cultural center will remember him and Dr. Martin Luther King on Monday, January 19th gives fans a chance to tour for free all day. The are calling it the Community Free Day.

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

Inaugural Bourbon, Barbeque, Kickboxing & Boxing event being held in Louisville

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Bourbon, Barbeque and Mayhem 2025

It’s a two-day event full of food, fun and fights

(Louisville, KY) Main Event Kombat LLC announces our first ever Barbeque, Bourbon, and Mayhem.  The two-day event will take place on Friday, August 8th and Saturday, August 9th at Harley Davidson located at 2755 Terra Crossing Blvd in Louisville, KY.

We anticipate guests from all over the U.S. to converge on the Bluegrass to enjoy this one-of-a-kind event.  Fans will get to enjoy Kickboxing on Friday night and boxing on Saturday.  Where else can you go where you can enjoy both sports?  We also have another type of competition taking place on the grill.  There will be an Amateur BBQ Competition featuring grilling experts showing off their cooking skills. 

The event, founded by Lawrence Winburn Jr, Haven Harrington, and Chef John Railey.  The three produced this unique concept which is already getting rave reviews.  Winburn says, ‘We have been working on this event for years and decided 2025 would be the right time to make its debut.” Winburn goes on to say, “This will be an annual event that many can look forward to in the years to come.” 

Harrington adds “This is the perfect recipe adding barbeque, bourbon and a main event which will be kickboxing one night and boxing on another.  For sports fans this is a perfect combination, and we are offering it all under one roof. I think people will be excited to see the lineup both evenings.”

Railey says, “It is the food for me.  The competition element really draws a different audience.  It is like multiple events taking place in one venue with a nightcap in the ring for boxing and kickboxing.  This will be an exciting time, experience, and of course great food.”

Here is the full schedule for Barbeque, Bourbon, and Mayhem:

On Friday, August 8th, from 5 pm to 7 pm there will be a ‘BBQ Meet & Greet’ with seven award-winning Pit Masters from across the nation.  This event is free and open to the public. Followed by the ticketed Kickboxing event from 8 pm to 11 pm.  Featuring a full card of bouts with regional and national talent.  There will also be a full-service bar. 

On Saturday, August 9th from 4 pm to 7 pm guests will get to witness the Amateur BBQ Competition. Come and taste award winning BBQ from seven award-winning pitmasters from across the U.S.

 This is a free event and open to the public. The ticketed boxing match will highlight the best up and coming professional boxers. It will be from 8 pm to 11 pm.  Doors for both nights open at 7 pm with matches beginning at 8pm.

Both nights there will be a bourbon, tequila, beer and wine showcase.Each fight presented and sponsored by leading bourbon brands, with branded tasting booths and promotions. Along with a Cash Bar & Food Court: Featuring local vendors and specialty bourbon cocktails. The kickboxing tickets are $30 dollars (plus tax and fees $5.88) and $40 dollars at the door.  Boxing tickets are $50 in advance and $60 at the door.

“Operation Barbeque Relief” is in effect so sales of barbeque will support The National Barbeque Association who feeds those directly affected by the natural disasters across our nation.  When others leave affected areas, they remain to make sure they are taken care of long term. 

Again, it is free to enter and tour Harley Davidson and attend a Meet & Great with Pit Masters from across the nation.

If you would like to compete in the barbeque competition. You can sign up through our Eventbrite page. 

All events for Bourbon, Barbeque and Mayhem will take place at the Harley-Davidson, 2755 Terra Crossing Blvd.  Youth 14 years of age and under must be accompanied by an adult. 

Tickets can be purchased online at Eventbrite or at the door. Here’s a link: Bourbon, BBQ, and Mayhem Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite.

VIP Tables are $1000 for one day and $1500 for two days. Each VIP table includes: six seats, hand rolled Bourbon, BBQ, and Mayhem Cuban Cigar, a bottle of bourbon for the table to share and waiter service for drinks and food.

We would like to thank the following sponsors and supporters: Against the Grain, Operations BBQ Relief, Hatfield Media, Choppin’ Up Chef John, Main Event Kombat LLC, Bluegrass Harley-Davidson, Chef’s Cut Pizzeria, The 502 Crew Sports And Social Club, Wake Up 502, DJ KSIVZ, Chase Marketing Inc. and Metro Parks.

To set up an interview with the founders, BBQ competitors and/or bourbon vendors they are available for in-studio and on-site interviews, please contact VIPP Communications at info@vippcommunications.com.   We invite you to also cover the two events.  Please email us and/or call the number provided so we can have a representative available to welcome you. 

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Shaboozey will headline FanDuel’s Kentucky Derby Party on Derby Eve

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By Sherlene Shanklin- Special KY Derby Report

Down the Stretch with Sherlene Shanklin:  With 19 days before Kentucky Derby 151.  The guest lists are being to pop up.  For the second year, The FanDuel Kentucky Derby Party will host a party Oaks night, Friday, May 2nd.  This exclusive, invite-only event will take place at Paristown Hall. 

Fresh off his Coachella performance and now he will perform in Louisville. This year’s entertainment will be Grammy-nominated country music sensation Shaboozey.  The rapper, singer, and songwriter, best known for A Bar Song, (Tipsy) will perform. holds the record for the longest-leading Hot 100 No. 1 while also topping Billboard’s Hot Country Songs, Country Airplay Chart, and Mediabase/Country Aircheck charts. The single has accumulated over a billion streams across DSPs and made history, making Shaboozey the first Black male artist to simultaneously top Billboard’s Hot Country Songs and Hot 100.  

With his Nigerian roots he’s found a way to blend, country, hip-hop, rock and Americana is what music critics have called him a true cross-over artist.    

Shaboozey says, “I’m hyped to be part of the Derby this year. It’s one of those bucket list events you dream about playing and we’ll be bringing serious vibes to Louisville with FanDuel.” 

When entering, VIP guests from the worlds of sports, entertainment, music, and horse racing will walk a blue carpet.

FanDuel will make a $100,000 donation in support of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance.  The nonprofit organization supports the care, retraining, and rehoming of retired racehorses. This is the fifth year, FanDuel have donated to the organization.

“The Kentucky Derby is a celebration of tradition, energy, and unforgettable moments,” said Andrew Moore, General Manager of Racing at FanDuel. “Horse racing is where FanDuel’s journey began, and it remains a central part of who we are as a company. Between the iconic FanDuel party and our donation to the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, we’re looking forward to making FanDuel’s presence in Louisville known.” 

FanDuel Group, the premier online gaming company in North America and an Official Partner of Churchill Downs Inc,

Even though this event is new when it comes to Kentucky Derby parties last year’s inaugural event featured performances by Luke Bryan and Ne-Yo.

If you have a Kentucky Derby event, send it to me at The411@whas11.com. 

►Follow Sherlene on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. 

Countdown to Kentucky Derby 151

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Revel at the Races announce their entertainment

By Sherlene Shanklin, Special Derby Report, WHAS11 Television

We are less than 30 days away from one of the greatest sporting events, the Kentucky Derby.  Its more than the fastest two minutes in sports but the events, parties and galas that surround it.  The Kentucky Derby draws thousands of fans. All looking for something to do while in Louisville. 

Sports Illustrated, (SI) created the ‘Revel At The Races’ that embraces the race, the sport, music, and celebration that Derby brings.  In 2024, their inaugural event drew some of the biggest names in sports from Travis Kelce to Aaron Rodgers, Alix Earle, and Devante Adams. 

Now, they are excited to announce that ‘Revel At The Races’ will return for a second year on Derby Eve. SI’s exclusive event guarantees to be unforgettable.  The late-night experience will have Diplo as their headliner.  He’s known as a ‘DJ’ and music producer.  Fans would say they know him as the co-creator and lead member of the electric dancehall music project Major Lazer.  Their other special guest Xandra Pohl will open. 

This event will take place, Derby Eve, Friday, May 2nd at the Ice House located at 226 E Washington St. Doors open at 10:00 p.m.   

Organizers which include a partnership with Louisville’s J Wagner Group, promises to offer the same level of top-notch hospitality in the very intimate venue in downtown Louisville. 

CELSIUS, is the official energy drink, as Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Maker’s Mark return as the official vodka and bourbon.

Tickets are available now, but only a limited number will be sold which start at $900.  For Verizon customers that are offering exclusive ticket opportunities via Verizon Access.  

For tickets go to revelattherace.com. 

Stay tuned for their celebrity guest list. 

We are at the post for Kentucky Derby 151.  Follow my derby announcements ‘Down the Stretch with Sherlene Shanklin’ on whas11.com. 

►Contact WHAS11’s Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@whas11.com or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. 

Women in sports finally getting the attention and support they deserve

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To see women’s sports explode is exciting. So many women I know played sports in high school and college. At 4’11, I played on the b-ball team for conditioning for track and the sisterhood. I ran with Deltresa Moore at Western Kentucky University. Everytime,we hit the mark for the scholarships, they had an excuse. We got nothing for it but a bond of sisterhood and ‘you can’t beat me’ attitude that we took into the workplace. But my cousin Veronica Shanklin was able to get it at the very school that we were denied. Can you imagine the NIL deals we would of had if NIL existed? I wore #lipstick #twodifferentcolorspikes that’s not new we did in the 80s 90s. #lol #remember those who kept trying so that women today can do.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18XQsJmnne/

THE DEION BRANCH FOUNDATION GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITY BY SUPPORTING FAMILIES THAT NEED A LITTLE ASSISTANCE DURING THE HOLIDAYS

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Official News Release

THE DEION BRANCH FOUNDATION GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITY BY SUPPORTING FAMILIES THAT NEED A LITTLE ASSISTANCE DURING THE HOLIDAYS

(Louisville, KY) Two-time Super Bowl Champion & Super Bowl 39 MVP Deion Branch along with his foundation assisted 20 families in making the holiday season brighter for their children. Children had the opportunity to shop for clothes, toys, and gifts for loved ones at the Walmart on Standiford Plaza Drive.  To help them pick out their selections, players of the University of Louisville Football team played Santa’s helpers. 

Branch currently works as a staff member at his alma mater, University of Louisville.  Branch says, “It is so important to give back to those so support you, the fans.  That is why I always try to bring the guys out with me to show how important it is to the community.  To see these young people smile, run up and down the isles full of excitement makes my heart happy. You can see the relief in parents’ eyes that their children are going to be able to celebrate and go back to school with a story or two from their holiday break.  We definitely created memories and fans.” 

Youth participating in the shopping spree came from the Neighborhood House, Louisville Central Community Center Mini-Versity Child Development Center, and the West Louisville Performing Arts Academy. 

A special thank you to R&B Roofing and Remodeling who donated their time and a monetary gift to each child involved in the holiday spree. We also would like to thank the team at Walmart for being so accommodating as we took over the store and even had shoppers stopping to get photos with the team and Branch.   

Branch goes on to say, “The holiday season is challenging time for families, so I hope we were able to relieve some stress and in return remind the team that we are blessed.  We do not take anything or anyone for granted.  This was a community project, but it was a reminder that we all need to work as team.  When we do, we can win.”

The Cards will now focus on their bowl game which will be played on New Year’s Eve against Washington in the Sun Bowl.

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

If you have any questions, please contact VIPP Communications at 502-341-7306 or by email at info@vippcommunications.com. 

*Photos attached courtesy VIPP Communications.  You can also go to our social pages @vippcommunications

Breaking the Color Barrier in basketball at the University of Louisville

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Art exhibit opens this week at Roots 101

(Louisville, KY) On Friday, March 15th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Guests will get the first look at the exhibit recognizing the three men who broke the color barrier in basketball at the University of Louisville. 

Roots 101 African American Museum and Mixed Nation will unveil the “Louisville Legends Art Exhibit” recognizing and honoring Wade Houston, the late Sam Smith and Eddie Whitehead. 

In 1962, Houston, Smith and Whitehead played a vital role as trailblazers for the University of Louisville’s Men’s Basketball program by having the opportunity to play for the university.  These three men stuck together, looked out for one another, and created a brotherhood on and off the court. Because of their resiliency the culture of basketball and the world we live in today have changed for the better.  Their actions forever changed the sport and race relations. 

The event will feature art by Charles Rice, a performance by the Sankofa Experience and tour of the museum.  There will also be light refreshments served. 

If you would like to attend, please email to RSVP to info@mixednations.com Seating is limited. 

Please announce and/or post on your community calendars.  We hope you will be able to attend.  If you have any questions, please contact VIPP Communications at info@vippcommunications.com.  We will try to accommodate your requests.

Roots 101 is located at 124 N. 1st Street in downtown Louisville, KY. 

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THE DEION BRANCH FOUNDATION TAKE LOUISVILLE YOUTH SHOPPING FOR CHRISTMAS

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THE DEION BRANCH FOUNDATION TAKE LOUISVILLE YOUTH SHOPPING FOR CHRISTMAS

(Louisville, KY) Last night (Friday, Dec 15th) in Louisville the Deion Branch Foundation founded by two-time Superbowl champion and current staff member of the University of Louisville Football team Deion Branch took 30 children shopping for the holidays.  Branch along with current members of the UofL Football team helped local youth from the Louisville Central Community Center, Portland Neighborhood House and Sowing Seeds with Faith shop for clothes and toys.  They were at the Target Store located at 3600 Mall Road, 40218. A special thank you to Dr. Adora Hicks for coordinating the players to make sure they shared in the experience. 

Branch says “Me and my family have been truly blessed and we want to help those in need.  Since working for the university, in the past two years I’ve gained a better understanding of the importance of giving back, especially to the fans. Families have been through so much over the past few years and if we can help in any way to lighten the load, especially during the holidays, we want to do that.  I’ve excited to bring some of the players from the team to help me spread some holiday cheer as they prepare for the Holiday Bowl.”

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

If you have any questions, please contact VIPP Communications at 502-341-7306 or by email at info@vippcommunications.com. 

*Photos attached courtesy VIPP Communications.  You can also go to our social pages as well as the university’s IG page. 

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

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December 8, 2022

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

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

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

Jamon Brown

TheVIPPReport: STARS Youth Enrichment Program travels to Louisville, KY empowering future leaders both on and off the basketball court

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(Dayton, OH) The S.T.A.R.S. Youth Enrichment Program, (STARS YEP) will be at Louisville’s Doss High School, 7601 St. Andrews Church Road on August 19th and 20th for a life skills and basketball camp along with a coaches clinic.

 On Friday, August 19th, NBA scout and evaluator Don Sellers will lead The Sellers Interactive Coaches Clinic. The respected professional will instruct coaching staffs how to celebrate their togetherness of the sport. In addition to learning from each other so they can work as a cohesive team. Sellers travels across the country demonstrating that all positions are vital for the success of a program. Working with organizations like the Los Angeles Clippers, Memphis Grizzles, Portland Trailblazers to the San Antonio Spurs. The Louisville workshop is open to any basketball coach at any level interested in growing their basketball knowledge and networking with their peers. Registration begins at 5:00 pm and the clinic begins at 5:30pm to 9:00 pm (EST).

Then on Saturday, August 20th, it is the S.T.A.R.S. YEP Life Skills & Basketball Camp for youth between the ages of 8 to 15 years of age. This free camp will give campers a vast array of experience when it comes to basketball knowledge and skill set that translate into discipline, work ethic and respect for themselves and others off the court. The camp is structured after Coach Mike Jarvis’ ‘Skills for Life’ book which focuses on modules that give players life skills that can sustain after the sport.   Jarvis along with former NBA star Dale Ellis will be in Louisville and will be facilitators of the basketball sessions.  WesBanco will facilitate the youth literacy programming as part of the life skills curriculum.    

We must limit our skill’s camp to the first one hundred applicants and pre-registration ends on July 30th. Check-in will be from 6:30 am to 7:30 am. Then the camp opens at 9:00 am which will include breakfast, lunch, and snacks. To conclude their day, there will be a keynote speaker and an awards ceremony at 5:00 pm.

Due to the generous support of our program partner, WesBanco the camp and coaches clinic will be free. We would like to thank them for collaborating with us to help make the camp a wonderful experience for everyone involved. Jody Gump, WesBanco’s AVP & BCM Business Development says “WesBanco is proud to partner with the S.T.A.R.S. Youth Enrichment Program. The values the program is instilling on the youth aligns with our pledge to serve the local communities.” 

To obtain an application go to https://starsyep.org/camp-application/. To setup an interview, contact VIPP Communications at info@vippcommunications.com or by calling 502-341-7306. Please add our announcement to your events calendar. We will be adding additional coaches and special guests in the coming weeks so stay tuned for those announcements.

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

TheVIPPReport: Have you ever wanted to make the call? Now you can become an officiate

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(Louisville, KY) The Kentuckiana Football Officials Association, (KFOA) are looking for men and women who are interested in participating as officials for high school football.   If you are interested in officiating, you have until July 7th to submit your name for this season.   Training is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, July 13th.  

If you are unable to attend one of the meetings but interested in learning more about KFOA and how to officiate, call 502-419-8814 for your next steps to help area student athletes.

KFOA is one of the premier high school football officiating associations in the nation.  Currently, members of KFOA officiate every level of high school (Varsity, Junior Varsity and Freshman) in Metro Louisville.  Members will also have opportunities to officiate youth leagues.  

We are proud to acknowledge that we have officials that have gone on to be officials on the collegiate and professional football leagues.

The Kentuckiana Football Officials Association holds regular membership meetings each Wednesday evening in July through the first week of October.

To learn more about KFOA and how you can join, visit our site at kfoa.info.  To setup interviews contact VIPP Communications at info@vippcommunications.com or by calling 502-341-7306.

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The VIPP Report: Have you ever wanted to make the call? Now you can. Become an officiate.

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(Louisville, KY) The Kentuckiana Football Officials Association, (KFOA) are looking for men and women who are interested in participating as officials for high school football.   KFOA will conduct two orientation meetings to explain what it takes to officiate a game.  The first meeting will be held on Thursday, June 16th and Monday, June 20th. 

Both meetings will take place at 6:30 p.m. at Waggener High School, 330 S. Hubbards Lane.  Then training is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, July 13th.   

If you are unable to attend one of the meetings but interested in learning more about KFOA and how to officiate, call 502-419-8814 for your next steps to help area student athletes. 

KFOA is one of the premier high school football officiating associations in the nation.  Currently, members of KFOA officiate every level of high school (Varsity, Junior Varsity and Freshman) in Metro Louisville.  Members will also have opportunities to officiate youth leagues.   

We are proud to acknowledge that we have officials that have gone on to be officials on the collegiate and professional football leagues. 

The Kentuckiana Football Officials Association holds regular membership meetings each Wednesday evening in July through the first week of October. 

To learn more about KFOA and how you can join, visit our site at kfoa.info.  To setup interviews contact VIPP Communications at info@vippcommunications.com or by calling 502-341-7306.

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The VIPP Report: A look back to how Ronnie Baker qualified for the Tokyo Olympics

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By Sherlene Shanklin

Olympian Ronnie Baker

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.

https://www.whas11.com/article/news/local/louisville-native-ronnie-baker-going-for-gold-in-tokyo-olympics/417-b2712e88-29c0-4770-9270-852159c6b09f

The VIPP Report: Preparing Young Ladies To Be Successful Both On And Off The Basketball Court

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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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The VIPP Report: Remembering Wilma Rudolph one of U.S.A’s greatest track and field stars

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*PHOTOS: When you open the story you can see the slideshow of photos courtesy Rudolph family

Rudolph set the “gold” medal standard for sprinters

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.

The VIPP Report: Remembering Muhammad Ali, the GOAT five years later

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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

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

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

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

Sherlene M. Shanklin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Birdie Maxwell named a Muhammad Ali Scholar and first student-athlete in the prestigious program

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Birdie Maxwell Photo Courtesy Sherlene Shanklin

By Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11 ABC Louisville

They call her ‘birdie’ because her mother called her an early bird. Now, the Louisville Cardinal will take a month overseas exploring social justice issues as part of a prestigious program. The University of Louisville rower Kyelia ‘Birdie’ Maxwell talks about being named a Muhammad Ali Scholar. 

Birdie says she was absolutely amazed I was even selected as a student athlete but as a student in the university to be part of such an important program and such an important part of UofL’s history, of Louisville’s history, the home of Muhammad Ali I felt honored that they would allow me to be apart of the program with a bunch of other amazing students. 

The UofL rower is the first student-athlete to be named a Muhammad Ali Scholar since its inception six years ago.  Birdie says “I honestly didn’t think it was that big until everyone was texting me, emailing me saying congratulations its such an honor.”

The Biology and fine arts major grew up in Clarksville, TN. Both of her parents served in the military giving her an opportunity to see the world.  She says “my mom was in the air force for five years and then my dad was in the army for 32 years. I’ve lived in Germany, Korea, I went on vacation well I guess you wont call a vacation it was more of a senior trip to Spain, London, France, stayed in Austria and I stayed in Peru as well.”

Birdie had several options to attend college but knew UofL was the right fit.  “When I came on this campus-I just fell in love with the campus automatically and plus I was introduced to rowing” says Maxwell.  

I asked her with social unrest in the city and around the world. Birdie says she wants to be a part of change.  She goes on to say that she even participating in the campus protest lead by the men’s basketball team. 
“I think with all the injustice that’s happening in Louisville and especially in Minneapolis with George Floyd and Breonna Taylor it really feels close to home with Breonna Taylor being that I want to go into medicine. Im a Black woman and I live in Louisville. I think I have some type of personal connection where I thought it could have been me!

If Birdie had the opportunity… she’d like to help change laws. She remains positive while keeping her eye on the prize just like Muhammad Ali both with the mentality of wanting to shake up and change the world . 

She says “I would like to become a doctor and be that face of change for young black students, brown students, people in poverty, underprivileged children to look up to me and say I can do that.”

Birdie recently had hip surgery but we hope to see here on the water soon. As for her role as a Muhammad Ali Scholar she will take about a month oversees to explore justice issues in a different cultural, political, social, and economic context. Here’s the 2021  Ali Scholars: Lorenzo Rowan, Shradda Patel, Taylor Griffith, Edison Pleasants, Maegan Heller, Ashley Aguilera-Rico, Pamambuna Touray, Kaylee Boyd and Kyelia Maxwell. 

Sherlene & Birdie Maxwell

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

To see story click the link -> https://www.whas11.com/article/features/kyelia-birdie-maxwell-muhammad-ali-scholar/417-4f3f9af8-b936-456d-a30b-1d1186660917

The VIPP Report: Muhammad Ali’s caregiver opens up to Sherlene Shanklin for the first time since the GOAT’s passing

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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.

The VIPP Report: Remembering Muhammad Ali on what would have been his 79th birthday

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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.

 

Muhammad Ali’s caregiver talks for the first-time since his passing to WHAS11’s Sherlene Shanklin. I sat down with Marilyn Williams just days before what would have been his 79th birthday .

Special Report by Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11, ABC Louisville

Muhammad Ali and Sherlene Shanklin at the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, KY.

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.”

Williams showing me a piece of art that Ali created.

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 is an EMMY Award winning journalist. Two-time Society of Professional Journalists, (SPJ) winner for sports writing and best use of social media. Multiple award winner for the Associated Press. Career spans nearly 30 years with an emphasis but not limited to news in Kentucky and Southern Indiana.

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

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AOKAllstar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stamina-Logo

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

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

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JaredLorenzenGet Fit

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

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

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

Both events are from noon-4:00 pm.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The VIPP Report: Aspire Basketball Academy announces inaugural scholarship and awards gala

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A NIGHT OF INSPIRATION RECOGNIZES THREE PASSIONATE LEADERS WHO’VE DEDICATED THEIR LIVES TO DEVELOP YOUTH IN THE COMMUNITY

(Louisville, KY) Aspire Basketball Academy continues to motivate and inspire youth in the community to reach their ultimate potential.  The academy takes a timeout to acknowledge the unsung MVPs in our community that work tirelessly on the court and in life to assist youth by keeping them inbounds and on track for success.

It’s A Night of Inspiration Scholarship and Awards Gala on Sunday, February 10, 2019 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at The Majestic, 1535 Lytle Street.  The inaugural event is to inspire, develop and cultivate future community leaders with the core academic and leadership skills to prepare them for life beyond their time at Aspire Academy.  This year’s host for the gala will be Perrin Johnson.

The evening will honor some local legends that have dedicated their lives to helping youth. This year’s honorees will be Tony Williams, Daniel Ross and Bob Redman; their passion, success stories and accomplishments will be recognized.  You will also get to meet international and local students in the program and the Aspire staff who directly mentor the student athletes. Also, the scholarship and awards gala will highlight the importance of education and youth sports as it relates to the development of children in our community.

The evening will be filled with inspirational stories, great food, drinks, and live entertainment. The proceeds will go directly to the program to support the students, education, transportation, and lodging. All of these things are essential to ensure the student’s success.

Aspire Basketball Academy provides three types of programs which includes the Junior Wizards, a developmental youth grassroots program, Aspire Academy, a national high school program and the Aspire Academy College Prep which is designed for post graduate activities while in the program.

You still have time to be a sponsor, purchase a table and/or to make a donation to A Night of Inspiration by contacting Jamie Warfield at info@jamiewarfieldconsulting.com or Tim Barnett at tbarnett.aspireacademy@gmail.com. Individual tickets are $50 which includes appetizers, drinks, dessert, and dancing.

To setup an interview with Aspire Academy’s leadership team, Roger McClendon, Luke Hancock, Barnett and/or Warfield, contact VIPP Communications at info@vippcommunications.com.  Please include our announcement on your community calendars and announcements.                                                                       ###

The VIPP Report: 2013 University of Louisville Men’s Basketball Team reunites for their 5 year anniversary

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(Louisville, KY) They dominated the headlines as the underdog team with the hearts of champions. Eliminating team after team to reach the pinnacle in college basketball with a record of 31 wins and only six loses.  Now, the members of the Cardinal team will gather for their five-year reunion and the team wants to celebrate with you, their fans.

On Friday, June 29th, it’s Rise Above with the 2013 Basketball Championship 5th Year Reunion Celebration at Fourth Street Live, 400 S. 4th in downtown Louisville.  Doors open at 5:30 pm and the celebration will begin at 6:00 pm.  The evening will be filled with activities, giveaways and a meet and greet with the team.  Fans will get a special treat because you will get to relive the 2013 championship game with the team.  As you watch the game, you will get to ask players and staff in attendance what were they thinking and how surreal it was to win that championship game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta on April 8, 2013.

Here’s the names of the University of Louisville 2013 team: Gorgui Dieng, Peyton Siva, Russ Smith, Luke Hancock, Kevin Ware, Montrezl Harrell, Mangok Mathiang, Logan Bauman, Tim Henderson, Wayne Blackshear, Chane Behanan, Zach Price, Michael Baffour, Mike Marra and Stephan Van Treese.  All of the players will be in attendance at the celebration except for Dieng who had prior obligations in his hometown of Senegal.

Tickets start at $20 for general admission.  Children 12 years old and under get in free with a paid adult admission.  You can purchase them at ticketfly.com.  You can also purchase them at the gate as you enter Fourth Street Live.

You still have an opportunity to be a sponsor and show your support by contacting Roger McClendon at riseabovereunion@gmail.com.

To setup an in-studio or phone interview and/or to confirm your attendance at the celebration contact Sherlene Shanklin, interviewrequest@vippcommunications.com.

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#riseabove2013

The VIPP Report: 2nd Annual Sports & Motivation Youth Camp Series will be a part of Summerfest this weekend in Chickasaw Park

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(Louisville, KY) On Saturday, June 23rd in historic Chickasaw Park in West Louisville the community will gather for the 2nd Annual Sports & Motivation Youth Camp Series.  The camp begins at 9:00 am for youth ages 6 through 13.  They must be accompanied by an adult to participate.

Youth will have a chance to meet legends in the sports realm as well as community leaders who will share their wisdom and skills. Professional trainers and instructors will be on hand to give youth an opportunity to learn proper techniques.

Members of the Louisville Bats will be on hand inspiring youth, doing a baseball clinic and giving away home game tickets so youth can take in one of their games. Youth in attendance will also get to hear from members of the West End Golf Tee Program.  Wilbur Hackett Sr. and his son Wilbur Hackett Jr. will be in attendance talking about his historic journey as one of the first African American to play football in the SEC and the University of Kentucky.  Jerry Ellis will be on hand to talk about his career as well as his late brother former Heavyweight Boxing Champion Jerry Ellis.  During the camp Alice Houston and Shively Sporting Goods will be honored for their support to the camp and the community.

The Sports & Motivation Youth Camp Series is FREE but a parent and/or guardian needs to be present.  You can register by texting 502-919-0757 or 502-776-1240.  There will also be onsite registration.  For the adults in attendance, Walmart will provide a $10 gift card for bringing your child to the event.

This year’s event was made possible by the support of the following: WLOU.104.7fm, Summerfest, Black Sports Hall of Fame, Buffalo Foundation, Walmart, Ford, UAW, HJI, Harmon Construction, Dynamic Healthcare, Shively Sporting Goods, Minuteman Press, The Greatest Wash & Laundromat, Anabel’s Oriental Rugs and countless volunteers.

Please announce and/or post on your website and social media platforms.  To setup an interview contact VIPP Communications at mail@vippcommunications.com.

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The VIPP Report: 2013 University of Louisville Men’s Basketball team will reunite to celebrate their unforgettable season

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 (Louisville, KY) They dominated the headlines as the underdog team with the hearts of champions. Eliminating team after team to reach the pinnacle in college basketball with a record of 31 wins and only six loses.  Now, the members of the Cardinal team will gather for their five-year reunion and the team wants to celebrate with you, their fans.

On Friday, June 29th, it’s Rise Above with the 2013 Basketball Championship 5th Year Reunion Celebration at Fourth Street Live, 400 S. 4th in downtown Louisville.  Doors open at 5:30 pm and the celebration will begin at 6:00 pm.  Throughout the evening there will be special guests and giveaways which includes a meet and greet with the team.

The following players are scheduled to appear: Gorgui Dieng, Peyton Siva, Russ Smith, Luke Hancock, Kevin Ware, Montrezl Harrell and the rest of the 2013 National Champions Louisville Cardinals.

Tickets start at $20 for general admission.  Children 12 years old and under get in free with a paid adult admission.  You can purchase them at ticketfly.com.

You still have an opportunity to be a sponsor and show your support by contacting Roger McClendon at riseabovereunion@gmail.com.

To setup an in-studio or phone interview and/or to confirm your attendance at the celebration contact Sherlene Shanklin, interviewrequest@vippcommunications.com.

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#riseabove2013

 

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

 

 

The VIPP Report: Two-time Super Bowl Champ Deion Branch will host a free Skills & Drills Camp in Louisville

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

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

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

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

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

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

The VIPP Report: Former Cardinals and Wildcats tee it off to help youth wanting to excel in sports and in the classroom

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(Louisville, KY) Inside the Lines Training, Inc. (ITL) will host their inaugural Cards vs Cats Golf Scramble on Monday, July 2nd at the Nevel Meade Golf Course, 3123 Nevel Meade Drive, Prospect, KY.

The scramble will support programs to assist local youth athletes through education, leadership development and physical training. Their goal for the charity event is to raise $25K.

Registration begins at 7:30 am and the teams will tee-off at 9:00 am.  To participate in the golf scramble the registration fee is $100 per person or $300 for a team of four.  Space is limited so if you would like to play register by emailing Anthony Richardson at insidethelinestraining@gmail.com.

The following players have agreed to participate and/or send memorabilia for a silent auction presenting their teams.  For the Cards it will be:  Michael Bush, Tony Williams, Jamon Brown, Earl Heyman and Mario Urrutia.

The Cats who’ve agreed to participate are: Keenan Burton, Garry Williams, Alex Poythress, and John Wall (memorabilia).  Additional names will be released in the coming weeks prior to the scramble.

Others also confirmed to participate is Mohamed Sanu and Ben Simmons (memorabilia).

Inside the Lines Training Inc. is a non-profit organization whose mission is to enrich student athletes with tools to excel academically, while enhancing characteristics of leadership, responsibility and work ethic.  They seek to establish these principles while creating a strong athletic foundation through sports specific training.

To learn more about Inside the Lines Training and the Cards vs Cats Golf Scramble go to www.itltraining.org.

We would love to have you cover our scramble.  To set up an interview, please contact Sherlene Shanklin with VIPP Communications at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com or by calling 502-295-0435.

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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. 

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The VIPP Report: Basketball tournament moves to the hometown of the greatest of all time

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200 teams and 20 courts will play under one roof at the “Battle of the Greatest” in Louisville, KY

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(Louisville, KY) Ohiobasketball.com rolls out the red carpet for the future stars of basketball.  It’s the “Battle of the Greatest” tournament held in Louisville, KY May 26th through the 28th at the Kentucky Expo Center, 911 Phillips Lane.  The tournament is for boys and girls in grades 4th through 11th.   Nationally ranked players and teams will travel to Louisville to participate under one roof with 20 courts.

If you love sneakers, the Battle of the Greatest, Big Country and KY Kick Fest presents a Sneaker Showcase on Sunday, May 27th from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm.  You can buy, sell and/or trade.  We need to limit each person to four pair to carry in.  If you would like to purchase a table call 859-913-1070.  Admission is $10 which includes admission into the tournament.

For updates on the Battle of the Greatest follow us on Twitter for real-time updatMemes @theathleticfirm.

If you would like to sign up your team.  The registration fee is $400.  Click this link provided to sign up.  https://form.jotform.com/72870671560157.

If you would like to do a preview story on the Battle of the Greatest, contact VIPP Communications by emailing us at info@vippcommunications.com.  For media credentials to cover the tournament contact us at info@vippcommunications.com

Who will leave the GREATEST?      http://battleofthegreatest.com/

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The VIPP Report: VIPP Communications, one of the top PR firms in the Midwest explains why they are considered media pros in business

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Welcome to VIPP Communications.  We are your one-stop Public Relations, Marketing, Branding and Event Management firm.

Our company was founded in 1998, after an overwhelming demand for our freelance services. We cater to every realm of business from professional athletes, entertainers to community and business leaders in their industry.

VIPP stand for “Visualizing into People’s Personality” and it’s pronounced V-I-P because our clients always get the V.I.P. treatment when we work on their project.  Our dedication, experience, hard work and innovation is why clients enjoy our services.

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Sherlene Shanklin started this firm with giving back in mind.  VIPP helps groups needing assistance with planning and receiving media coverage.  Many had no idea where to begin and Shanklin came in and helped develop a plan which many today still use her services and techniques she taught them.

The symbol we use is a circle meaning that that its never ending, continuous, and everlasting.  We are what you call a timeless team of communication professionals working to shape your business to have longevity and prosperity. vippstyle

If you would like to speak to one of the members of “Team VIPP” contact us at mail at vippcommunications dot com.

Follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm and Instagram @VIPPCommunications

 

 

 

The VIPP Report: AAU tournament lands in Louisville where basketball is king

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200 teams and 20 courts will play under one roof at the “Battle of the Greatest”

(Louisville, KY) Ohiobasketball.com rolls out the red carpet for the future stars of basketball.  It’s the “Battle of the Greatest” Amateur Athletic Union, (AAU) tournament held in Louisville, KY May 26th through the 28th at the Kentucky Expo Center, 911 Phillips Lane.  The tournament is for boys and girls in grades 4th through 11th.   Nationally ranked players and teams will travel to Louisville to participate under one roof with 20 courts.

Recruiters and teams will all have their eye on Team Breakdown based out of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.  All nine players have been offered Division 1 offers to play basketball at the collegiate level.  Son of University of Kentucky and NBA star Jamal Mashburn Jr. plays on this squad and will be in Louisville for the tournament.

Coach Kenny Gillion says “Mashburn has offers from Louisville, Harvard and Florida State University” just to name a few of the schools recruiting the point guard.  Gillion goes on to say that he’s proud of his whole team with the opportunity to further their education through basketball.  This is a family affair because Gillion’s wife Diana is in charge of the Showtime Ballers.  They will also play in the Louisville tournament.

Richard Ballard, Toney Frank and a group of Louisville entrepreneurs joined the team to bring the tournament to Louisville.  They put the event at one location and packed it with activities that they whole family can enjoy.  There will be an inflatable zone for basketball’s youngest fans.  There will be a Paw Patrol and PJ Mask Day along with contests, giveaways, and selfies with your favorite character.

Frank says “To give the games a faster pace and high impact we have rallied together the city’s top DJ’s to play during the games.” Ballard also added that “There will be some special guests attending some of the games and we are excited that they are coming out to support us”.

Frank goes on to say “You will know you are in basketball country when arrive.  Some of the best players were developed in this city and we want to create a platform for the next generation to receive that same opportunity.”

If you are a sneaker head, the Battle of the Greatest, Big Country and KY Kick Fest presents a Sneaker Showcase on Sunday, May 27th from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm.  You can buy, sell and/or trade.  We need to limit each person to four pair to carry in.  If you would like to purchase a table call 859-913-1070.  Admission is $10 which includes admission into the tournament.

We will provide a list of the teams and their start times when the tournament entries are finalized.  For updates on the Battle of the Greatest follow us on Twitter for real-time updates @theathleticfirm.

If you would like to sign up your team.  The registration fee is $400.  Click this link provided to sign up.  https://form.jotform.com/72870671560157.

If you would like to do a preview story on the Battle of the Greatest, contact VIPP Communications at 502-295-0435 or by emailing us at info@vippcommunications.com.  For media credentials to cover the tournament contact us at info@vippcommunications.com

Who will leave the GREATEST?      http://battleofthegreatest.com/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About JBrown Foundation

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

About the Coalition for the Homeless

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About the Coalition for the Homeless

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

About JBrown Foundation

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

About WHAS11 TV

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The VIPP Report: The “Showdown” takes place on the basketball court bringing “All Stars” to the hardwood to support area youth and Hurricane Harvey victims

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(Louisville, KY) It’s all about the bragging rights in the All-Star Showdown 2017 on Sunday, September 3rd at Old Male High School Gym, 911 S. Brook Street (corner of Brook and Breckenridge). Tickets are $10 for adults and $3 for youth 12 and under.

At 3:00 p.m. there will be a championship league game.  So, the East End Team of Louisville, Lou-Ville Champs will go up against the Buffalo All Star Pro Team from Lexington coached by 1978 NCAA Champion and Kentucky Wildcat James Lee.  It’s the battle for bragging rights.  During halftime fans, will get to enjoy a dunk contest.  You need to be in attendance to see the unbelievable dunks that will be attempted.

You will get your money’s worth with this event.  A second game has been added.  It’s the All-Star Game featuring former NBA & NCAA champion for the Kentucky Wildcats Derek Anderson, former Louisville Cardinals stars BJ Flynn, Nate Johnson and Alvin Sims will participate in the game. We’ve also confirmed that two Louisville Metro Police Officers Joplin Johnson and Thomas Coleman will play in this game. Louisville native and NBA star D’Angelo Russell graciously sponsored the official All Star Showdown Nike uniforms for the 5pm game.

Two former University of Louisville athletes Tony Williams and Mario Urrutia along with their dynamic teams created this concept to give back to the youth in the community.  Williams played 10 years in the European professional basketball league and works tirelessly to assist the youth in the community.  After playing for the Cardinals, Urrutia played in the NFL and currently helps other youth seeking the same success by developing them at the Super Student Athletes, LIFE Center. They provide guidance both on and off the football field.    Throughout the day, you will see youth be showcased in various ways so they can be exposed to positive figures in the community.

You will also get to see Kentucky State University’s Marching Band. They will travel from Frankfort to be a part of the game. There will be a step show during the HBCU halftime explosion.

This event is for the sharp shooters because there will be a Montgomery Chevrolet 3 Point Contest. Former Harlem Globetrotter, Dirt Bowl legend and Louisville native Gerald Gray will participate in Beat the Pro Challenge.

There will even be a $1,000 Lawyer for the City Half Court Long Shot Challenge sponsored by Attorney Brandon Lawrence.

This family friendly event will not only recognize the youth in the community but due to Hurricane Harvey, organizers felt the need to assist with aid by holding a moment of silence at the start of the game and introducing Derek Anderson’s AOK Foundation for hurricane relief fund and explain how you can help throughout the event.  Organizers have family and friends affected and want to let them know they care.

The response has been overwhelming when it comes to giving back.  We would like to thank some 30 sponsors that made this event which include Denny & Susan Crum, Bias Tilford Jr., Beargrass Missionary Church & Iron Sharpens Men’s Church Group, UPS Store St. Matthews Woodlawn Plaza, Derby Oil-Man, Lawrence “Red” Herring, Parkland Laundry, Media-Pros, Wade Houston and Frank Minnifield and family.

All four of the urban radio outlets in the area have agreed to be a part of the event by hosting different hours throughout the day.  B96, 93.1 The Beat, WLOU/104.7 and 107.9 The Beat in Lexington will all broadcast from the event.  There will be on-site interviews with KySports.TV. They will also live stream the games. To keep the activities moving Mario Martin of “The Mario Show” will be the emcee for the day.

Members of the Aspire Academy, which features some of the top high school prospects in the country will be in attendance. Hoops for Christ Philip Morrison will do a dribble dance routine with youth on the court.  With all this fun, you will get hungry so we have the 502 Café food truck serving food just outside the door.

If you would like to setup an interview with Tony Williams and Mario Urrutia please contact Sherlene Shanklin, VIPP Communications at 502-295-0435 or by email at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com.

Crews will be setting up on Friday and Sunday if you would like to do a preview story.  We also invite you to do live shots during our games.  There will be plenty of things going on and we will have coordinators, supporters and players made available to you.

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The VIPP Report: 5th Annual African Heritage Festival kicks off in Louisville on August 25th

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A Celebration of Unity, Art, Culture, & History Across the African Diaspora

The 5th Annual African Heritage Festival will be held in various locations around the city of Louisville Friday, August 25th through Sunday August 27th.  The event celebrates unity, culture, art and history across the African Diaspora.

The festival is hosted by Bridge Kids International, the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage (KCAAH), the Kentucky Old School Sports Association (KOSSA), HoneyTree Publishing, and Moments to Remember.

The African Heritage Festival is organized by a dynamic team representing a variety of countries and backgrounds. The whole city is invited to this unifying event that will be fun, educational, and certainly full of flavor. Last year’s festival drew approximately 2000 participants, and with this year’s new additions, we only anticipate that the celebration will continue to grow.

Opening Ceremony — Friday, August 25th – Kentucky Center for African American Heritage:

Opening Ceremony will kick off the weekend with a reception and program honoring African heritage, culture, history and art.

Festival Day — Saturday, August 26th

The African Heritage Festival will be a joyous event for the whole family with great food, music, dance, sports, theater, fashion, cultural demonstrations, children’s activities, resources for healthy living and so much more. What a great way to honor African, African-American and Caribbean cultures in Louisville and add to the revitalization efforts in the historic Russell neighborhood. All activities are free and open to the public. Some highlights include:

  • 8:00am: Soccer Tournament Begins – Champions Park, 2050 River Road soccer tournament held at Champions Park, organized by KOSSA, featuring 10 teams from at least 5 states with players representing 20 countries of origin
  • 10:00am:  Parade Begins – a parade of marching bands, dance teams, bicycle groups, community organizations and more down Muhammad Ali Blvd. starting at 9th Street and ending at 18th Street where the festival will take place in front of the KCAAH
  • 10:00am – 12:00pm: the widely beloved Books & Breakfast!
  • 11:00am: Festival activities begin and will feature live entertainment, “Under the Story Tree” storytelling fest, and other children’s activities. Food, merchandise and informational vendors from across the city and the surrounding region will be in attendance.
  • 12:00pm: Basketball tournament begins – a street basketball tournament presented by KOSSA and the organizers of the Dirt Bowl
  • 12:00pm – 5:00pm: A how-to fair with community members teaching useful and fun things
  • 7:00pm: Festival ends

 Sunday, August 27th – Invoke… Called by the Ancestors (performance begins 2:30 pm)

This year, we are excited to announce that a third day will be incorporated into the festival! Please come out on Sunday, August 27th for “Invoke … Called by the Ancestors” performed by Sankofa Dance Theater. The Baltimore based dance company presents world-class, authentic African art in the form of dance, music, and folkways for national and international audiences. Sankofa Dance Theater’s work is rooted in healing and bringing intercultural understanding to the global village while staying true to the definition of the word “Sankofa” — which means to learn from the past in an effort to build for the future. The show will begin promptly at 2:30pm and will feature a special appearance by spoken word artists Hannah Drake and Tytianna Wells smith –performing A Mother’s Tears. Tickets for Sunday’s are available on Eventbrite and at Better Days Records West (Lyles Mall). Proceeds will go towards the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage. We would like to thank The Brown Forman Foundation, The Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureaus, and Metro Louisville for sponsoring this event, and their dedication to making world renowned talent accessible to the larger community.

The African Heritage Festival was founded in 2013 when Bridge Kids International approached KCAAH about hosting the event at the Center as a way to build relationships among and celebrate Louisville’s African Diaspora. In four years, the event has grown from a mostly indoor event to a street festival and has more than doubled in size. Bridge Kids continues to coordinate the overall planning, but the African Heritage Festival has truly become the pride of all of the presenting organizations, planning committee, participants and volunteers.

Bridge Kids International is a Louisville, KY based global non-profit organization helping young people of Africa and the African Diaspora, aged 13-25, unleash their social entrepreneurial spirits to solve economic development, education, environmental, girls’ rights, and health challenges and build sustainable communities.  Bridge Kids operates from a belief that the interaction between culture, community, and connection leads to healing, restoration, and the evolution of individuals and communities.  BKI is rooted in African heritage culture, works to build communities that nurture young people, and seeks to strengthen relationships across Africa and the African Diaspora. Bridge Kids currently operates in 6 countries – Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Malawi, Rwanda, Senegal and the USA.

The Kentucky Center for African American Heritage’s (KCAAH) mission is to enhance the public’s knowledge about the history, heritage and cultural contributions of African Americans in Kentucky. In addition to its commitment to preserving the traditions and accomplishments of the past, the Center is a vital, contemporary institution, providing space for cultural programs, exhibitions and performances of all types. KCAAH’s brand is “One More River to Cross,” a history examined through Kentucky stories about African American history from its African origins through the Freedom Struggle against slavery and Jim Crow laws, to the modern Civil and Human Rights Movements in the 20th century.

 

 

 

 

The VIPP Report: Super Hoop Basketball Classic Returns To Louisville

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Event will take place Memorial Day weekend

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

The VIPP Report: Former U of L Cardinal Marques Maybin will talk about overcoming barriers at Metro Disabilities awards program

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BREAKING BARRIERS SPOTLIGHT AWARDS WILL RECOGNIZE LEADERS IN THE COMMUNITY THAT ASSIST PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

The Metro Disability Coalition works tirelessly in the community to assist people with disabilities a better quality of life.  On Monday, March 20th from 6:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at the Rudd Heart and Lung Center, 201 Abraham Flexner Way it’s the 17th annual Breaking Barriers Spotlight Awards.  The awards ceremony will honor community service workers, educators and youth who go above and beyond the call of duty to assist those in need.

Refreshments will be served prior to the program so guests can network and obtain information from various organizations setup around the room.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Marques Maybin.  Marques is a successful radio sports personality in Louisville.  Prior to having his own show, he played with the University of Louisville’s men’s basketball team as their starting guard from 1997 to 2001.  In 2003, he was in a motorcycle accident in his hometown of Clarksville, TN that paralyzed him from the waist down.

Marcellus Mayes, President for Metro Disability Coalition says “It’s hard to believe we are in the 17th year of this celebration. The event is so special because we get the opportunity to recognize individuals for overcoming obstacles that they refused to call a disability. We will also get to salute and say thank you to those that helped with their independency.”

The Metro Disability Coalition is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization comprised of individuals and agencies in the Louisville Metro area.  The purpose is to give a better quality of life for people with disabilities.

For additional information please contact Marcellus Mayes at 502-774-8993.  If you would like to setup an interview, please call Sherlene Shanklin at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com.

 

 

 

 

The VIPP Report: Kentucky Derby Festival teams up with basketball star Derek Anderson for kids basketball camp

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(Louisville, KY) The Kentucky Derby Festival is teaming up with former NBA and Kentucky Wildcat star, Derek Anderson, for a basketball camp that will help youth both on and off the court.  The Derby Festival Derek Anderson Acts of Kindness (AOK) Camp will be held in conjunction with this year’s Basketball Classic Presented by Papa John’s on Saturday, April 15th.  Anderson will lead the camp and be assisted by this year’s Basketball Classic All-Stars.  The camp is for youth 6th grade and up, but is limited to 50 participants.

Those interested in participating first need to submit a photo or video showing their AOK toward someone or a group in the community and send to AOKBasketballCamp@gmail.com. The submission needs to include name, age, grade, school, phone number, email and a description of the AOK. The deadline for submission is Saturday, March 25th. Those selected will be notified by March 31st.

Anderson, a NBA champion with the Miami Heat and NCAA champion with the Kentucky Wildcats says “The best way to help change in our community is by changing our character.  It’s time to SHOW our future leaders how to LEAD!”

Each participant will receive a t-shirt, goodie bag provided by Dick’s Sporting Goods, and two tickets to the Derby Festival Basketball Classic presented by Papa John’s.

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

To learn more about AOK go to staminafd.com.

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About Kentucky Derby Festival

The Derby Festival is an independent community organization supported by 4,000 volunteers, 400 businesses and civic groups, Pegasus Pin sponsorships and event participation.  It entertains more than 1.5 million people annually. This involvement has made the Festival the largest single attended event in Kentucky and one of the leading community celebrations in the world.

The VIPP Report: Muhammad Ali’s legacy lives on with the next generation

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Special by Sherlene Shanklin, WHAS11 Television, ABC, Louisville

Muhammad Ali would have been 75 years old on January 17th, but his influence lives on.  I’ve been in contact with a Louisville entrepreneur.  He’s had a busy week from making sure the pipes in his business were functional, a Stop the Violence Initiative held on Ali’s birthday to his wife having a baby.  Darnell “SuperChef” Ferguson spent the day with his wife Tatahda in an area hospital. Their bundle of joy arrived weighing in at  6 lbs. and 13 oz. and 19 inches long.

Did I mention his name, well its Legend Ali Ferguson.  You got it! Named after the “Greatest of All Time”.

Follow me on  Twitter @Sherlenemediapr and Instagram @sherlenemediapro.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Special Report by Sherlene Shanklin

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

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

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

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

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

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

The VIPP Report: Remembering Muhammad Ali

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MUHAMMAD ALI’S FUNERAL PROCESSIONAL

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COMES BY THE KENTUCKY CENTER FOR AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE

(Louisville, KY) On June 3rd, Louisville native Muhammad Ali died at the age of 74 years of age in Phoenix, Arizona.  The Greatest of All Time, (GOAT) had a champion’s sendoff in his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky.  On Friday, June 10th, streets throughout the city were blocked off so his 17-car processional could take his final journey to his resting place at Cave Hill Cemetery.

The processional led by family owned A.D. Porter and Sons Funeral Home owned by African-Americans has served the community for more than 100 years.  They traveled down Old Walnut Street, known today as Muhammad Ali Blvd one last time.  Stopping by landmarks and things important to Ali and his family.

When they passed 17th and Muhammad Ali they approached the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage where Aukram Burton, Executive Director for KCAAH captured these breath-taking and historical photos as hundreds stood at that route to say goodbye to Ali.

We invite you to use the photo with the courtesy of Aukram Burton, KCAAH.  If you use the photos, please let us know so we can share with others.

For additional information about the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage by calling 502-583-4100.

To do a story and/or obtain quotes from member of the KCAAH executive staff, please contact Sherlene Shanklin, VIPP Communications at info@vippcommuncations.com.

TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com Follow us on Twitter @thevippreport @vippcomm.

About KCAAH

The Kentucky Center for African American Heritage is the result of a collection of African American educators, artists and historians who have collaborated to give the long dormant history of African Americans in the region the voice and platform it deserves. This group evolved from the Louisville and Jefferson County African American Heritage Committee into its current mold, with a single unifying goal of promoting the Kentuckiana region’s black heritage.

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The VIPP Report: WNBA Allstar Angel McCoughtry Will Play In The KFC Yum! Center

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FORMER U OF L BASKETBALL STAR RETURNS TO LOUISVILLE FOR THE ATLANTA DREAM CLASSIC

(Louisville, KY)  Current WNBA Atlanta Dream star, Olympic Gold Medalist and one of the top scorers in the University of Louisville basketball program returns to play as a professional in front of the fans who supported her collegiate career.

The WNBA franchise The Atlanta Dream will host the 2015 Atlanta Dream Classic on Saturday, May 23rd in Louisville, Ky at the KFC Yum! Center.  The preseason exhibition game will feature a doubleheader, which will match the Indiana Fever versus the Connecticut Sun at 5:00 p.m. before the Dream and Washington Mystics play at 7:00 p.m.

We are currently accepting interview and appearance requests for Angel from May 20th to May 23rd.   To schedule an interview please contact Sherlene Shanklin, VIPP Communications at sshanklin@vippcommunications.com.

Twitter: @Sherlenemediapr @VIPPComm

VIPP Communications’ president creates a new blog “The VIPP Report”

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To learn more about the blog go to https://thevippreport.wordpress.com/.  If you would like to advertise and/or have your event posted contact us at TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com.  You can also follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm