By Sherlene Shanklin
I’ve have learned that Muhammad Ali and his wife Lonnie will attend a senate race rally in Louisville, KY later today. The Ali’s will attend Alison Lundergen Grimes senate race rally at the Muhammad Ali Center. Former President Bill Clinton will be the featured speaker.
If you have a story idea send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. You can follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm.
TO KEEP UP WITH HIGH DEMAND CARDINAL FANS LOOKING FOR MORE OPTIONS IN APPAREL
Immediate Release
October 29, 2014
2013, “The Year of the Cardinal” took the University of Louisville athletics to new heights. Fans witnessed a football team go 2-0 in bowl victories, a baseball team that advanced to the college World Series, a women’s basketball team reach the NCAA championship game, a men’s basketball team that won a NCAA Championship (2012-2013 season) and the emergence of a new clothing line that captured the swagger of a proud and enthusiastic fan base fittingly called “BIRDGANG”.
Birdgang Brand Clothing is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky and is a high fashion sports apparel company centered around the University of Louisville Athletics. Birdgang Brand Clothing is supported and approved by the University of Louisville, and is officially licensed by the Collegiate Licensing Company, (CLC).
The clothing line is founded by two members of the group Nappy Roots, Brian “Buffalo Stille” Scott and Ronald “Ron Clutch” Wilson. Stille is the founder and Wilson serves as the co-founder of the brand.
Consumers raved over the style and comfort of the university approved brand. Merchandise was flying off the shelves at retail outlets such as Hall of Fame Café, JD Becker, and Cardboard Heroes in Oxmoor and St. Matthews Malls respectively. From alumni to former players and students, to new found fans across the U.S. the demand for the Birdgang Brand Clothing was such that it caused the company to go back into production and design new merchandise for customers that have purchased every design available to them.
Fast forward one year later as BIRDGANG BRAND now announces the launch of its new website http://www.WeAreBirdgang.com and the addition of their “fly custom fitted caps and SnapBacks” as well as an all new “lady birds” category for the ladies. “We wanted to extend more options to our female Cards fans than just men’s/unisex tees,” says Stille. “In addition, we just got tired of seeing these cheap knockoffs of our trademark, a statewide and federal registered trademark.”
“Our new Fall/Winter line is a fresh new look, which is sleek and stylish plus versatile for U of L fans to show their school spirit even in their workplace.”
With these guys it’s all about the fans. “We do it for the people!” adds Wilson. Being avid U of L fans themselves and even one partner, Danny ‘Moe Money’ Mosby having started on the ’96 Cardinal football squad, the BIRDGANG BRAND team is focused on bringing urban fashion to the sports apparel arena. Stille adds, “We just wanna rep our team and stay fly in the process!”
Former Greater Louisville Inc., (GLI) Executive Director Tendai Charisika says “Birdgang Clothing is on the brink of something special”. Tendai has been instrumental in connecting Birdgang with Louisville’s most sought after venture capitalists. “Birdgang has been able to establish valuable licensing agreements and strategic partnerships with the University of Louisville that has positioned them for incredible future success. The market for urban apparel is growing and Birdgang is capturing this market with the highest quality material, which is what their brand stands for.”
If you would like to be a part of the Birdgang Brand Team go to http://www.WeAreBirdGang.com for investors, distributors and/or vendor information. To setup an interview and to see the new line of merchandise with the Birdgang Brand Clothing team, please call 502-582-7716 or by email at info@vippcommunications.com.
Mosby says, “the Birdgang Brand Team would like to thank Cards fans for supporting out 100/24 Campaign. We successfully sold 100 t-shirts in 24 hours on the same day the bowl eligible Cardinals received a top #25 ranking. The gray old English L’s, are in just in time for the unveiling of the gray uniforms. Follow us on social media to receive updates on how you can win some merchandise. We will do giveaways each week. Follow us on Facebook group @502Birdgang, Twitter and Instagram @wearebirdgang.”
CREATED FOR THE FANS AND RUN BY THE FANS ITS “BIRDGANG BRAND”
FALL LINE UNVEILED JUST DAYS BEFORE U OF L FACES THEIR TOUGHEST COMPETITION TO DATE
October 27, 2014
Immediate Release
(Louisville, KY) As the seasons begin to change, the University of Louisville Cardinal fans have a lot to be proud of from academics to their athletic teams. You can show your school spirit by wearing some of the coolest apparel. The Birdgang Brand decided to release their Fall/Winter line before some of their biggest games in the school’s history and the holidays.
The line of Cardinal apparel has been created and ready for distribution just in time for the Louisville versus Florida State football game on Thursday, October 30th at Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium and Saturday, November 1st for the men’s basketball first exhibition game at the KFC Yum! Center, who is fresh off their 2013/2014 run with a record of 31-6 and an Elite Eight appearance. This is their first year in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Fans can wear the signature Birdgang Brand “L” as well as other trendy Louisville recognizable symbols. “We Are Birdgang” has become a popular brand and a pop culture sensation for fans. If you place your order this week, the Birdgang Brand team will be able to deliver your apparel before this week’s games.
Danny Mosby Partner/CFO says “I want to express to the true hard core University of Louisville fan that you are the reason we are in existence. Every person in our organization is truly a team player and we work tirelessly to bring you designs with the upmost quality. Because of you WEAREBIRDGANG!”
This Tuesday, October 28th at 12:00 a.m. Birdgang Brand will be opening its virtual doors to the first one hundred customers. All items will be on a first come first serve basis and sizes are limited. Go to http://www.WeAreBirdgang.com to place your order. Mosby goes on to say “When the virtual window opens we are running a 100/24 Campaign. We want to sell 100 t-shirts in 24 hours”. Be a part of the Birdgang movement and purchase yours in time for Cardinal athletic events.
If you would like to setup an interview and see the new line of merchandise with Birdgang Brand members, Brian “Buffalo Stille”, Ronald “Ron Clutch” Wilson and/or Mosby, please call 502-582-7716 or by email at info@vippcommunications.com.
Follow us on social media to receive updates on how you can win some merchandise. We will do giveaways each week.
Facebook @502Birdgang, Twitter and Instagram @WeAreBirdGang.
About Birdgang Brand Clothing
Birdgang Brand Clothing is based in Louisville, Kentucky and is a high-fashion urban sports apparel company centered around the University of Louisville Athletics. Birdgang Brand Clothing is supported and approved by the University of Louisville, and is officially licensed by the CLC (Collegiate Licensing Company).
Special to The VIPP Report:
By Sherlene Shanklin
On the 40th anniversary of the ‘Rumble in the Jungle’, I had the opportunity to get a sneak peak of the new documentary ‘I AM ALI’. To some he’s the ‘Greatest of all Time’ in the boxing ring, but he also refused to be drafted in the Army and fight in the Vietnam War. The member of the Nation of Islam and native of Louisville, Kentucky, faced adversity and still does to this day in his own hometown. But when you watch the film, there was a silver lining and that was his family. In the film, the father of nine, gives his fans a rare look into his life as a father. The two hour documentary shows you how the confident fighter stayed grounded and what meant the most to him.
The story of Cassius Clay, known today as Muhammad Ali, shows how he kept his family close even when they were thousands of miles away. His brother, Rahman says he and his brother were like salt and pepper. You didn’t see one without the other for many years. Rahman trained right alongside the champ. Their parents attended many of the matches and was there as he trained.
This film is unique because it is viewed through the eyes of his two of his daughters. They are the producers of the film. Back when recording phone calls and videos were virtually unheard of, Ali did just that to preserve history and memories for his loved ones. He says in the film ‘This is history’. He would have conversations with his children and record them. On one call he asked his young daughter did she know her purpose. In her little voice she responds that she wants to help others.
The film takes you through the stages of his life. It explains the reason why he started to learn the art of boxing. A Louisville police officer who happened to also be a boxing coach ran into Ali and his brother right after their bicycle was stolen. They were so upset that they literally wanted to fight anyone they saw. The officer suggested that they learn how to fight first. At the age of 12, weighing 87 pounds, that’s what he did. Right in the basement of the building where his bike was stolen, he learned very quickly how to defend himself.
The film takes you through some of the biggest fights in Ali’s career both in and out of the ring. From segregation to his boxing suspension. He says ‘Titles and a little money didn’t mean a thing if you are not free.’
NFL Hall of Famer and activist Jim Brown appears in the film. He discusses the turbulent times in Ali’s life where he showed courage when he was being isolated because of his beliefs, evading the draft, and having his crown being taken away. Brown says he thought Ali was suffering inside.
In 1967, Brown and other top black athletes met with Ali so he could discuss with them why he decided not to join the Army. Brown, Bill Russell, Lew Alcindor, (known today as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar), Walter Beach, Bobby Mitchell, Sid Williams, Curtis McClinton, Willie Davis, Jim Shorter and John Wooten stood by Ali’s side in a press conference.
While Ali didn’t fight in the ring he found a new platform to have his voice be heard. He went to universities all over the country. The standing room only venues were full of scholars. Ali jokingly admitted that when he was in school he didn’t make the best grades but his knowledge and sincerity made him a scholar and respected by many.
The film talks to people close to him like his former trainer, the late Angelo Dundee, boxer Mike Tyson, and a rare appearance by Ali’s son, Muhammad Ali Jr. He talks about never wanting to be in the spotlight. Like most children with famous parents, fans always wanted Ali Jr. to measure up to his father. He said he found himself always being challenged to fight and when he didn’t, people would pick on him.
What’s so poignant in the film is when someone says ‘Who doesn’t know Muhammad Ali?’ I’ve travelled all over the world and when I say I’m from Louisville, one of the first things that many will say, isn’t that the home of the ‘Greatest’?
Throughout the film, I looked for Louisville landmarks. From Ali running down Broadway holding up traffic to a scene where his car turned off Main Street. It’s ironic that some 40 years later the Muhammad Ali Center would be built in the same area.
On a personal note: I’ve met Ali on several occasions, from him handing out autographed Quran Bibles in front of the Galleria, (known today as Fourth Street Live) as a child, to growing up and becoming a journalist covering him throughout his career as he has battled Parkinson’s disease.
Ali grew up in West Louisville, a predominately urban community and attended Central High School. I also live in that same neighborhood to this day. You watch him on television and have a sense of pride for your home state. I never thought about his international appeal. He’s one of the many who came from my neighborhood and went on to become a phenomenal success.
‘I AM ALI’ is in theatres and video on demand . In Louisville, you will be able to see the documentary at Village 8 Theatre.
The VIPP Report: As we near the end of the year, 2015 is starting to shape when it comes to entertainment. Within the last few weeks, I have received concert notifications for several artists from Maroon 5, Fleetwood Mac to Luke Bryan. Now, R&B and Hip Hop gets this chance to shine. It’s the Louisville Spring Jam featuring Keith Sweat, Dru Hill, 112, and Slick Rick.
lick Rick’s official DJ is a Louisville native. Dwight “DJ Kaos” Chatman travels with the Hip-Hop icon and resides in Louisville.
The concert is scheduled for Saturday, March 28th at the KFC Yum! Center. The promoters are calling the show a celebration of the best in R&B, Hip-Hop, Soul and Comedy, featuring an outstanding lineup with some of today’s hottest performers.
Tickets go on sale Friday, November 7th at 10:00 a.m. You can purchase tickets at the Yum! Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets and on online at Ticketmaster.com.
If you have a story idea send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. You can also follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm.
The VIPP Report: Celebrities flock to the Derby City the first Saturday in May but one celebrity was a no show after signing an alleged agreement to perform Derby night. Jayceon Taylor, Fifth Amendment Entertainment and Cash Jones are being sued by local promoters, Dream Team Entertainment. Taylor known as “The Game” to his fans is a successful rapper and reality show star. The complaint was filed on October 17th in the U.S. District Court Western District of Kentucky Louisville Division. The complaint says Dream Team is requesting $75,000 in which $35,000 was given to him to secure the engagement. According to the suit Dream Team sent a bank wired transfer of those funds.
The lawsuit goes on in detail about what transpired between the artist, management and the Dream Team. The concert was scheduled for May 4, 2014 and on or around May 2nd, just two days prior to the event Cash Jones who served as The Game’s agent did not like the lineup of the show. He allegedly wanted his client to headline the event. Jones made a decision that The Game would not travel to Louisville and allegedly refused to return the $35,000 deposit.
The VIPP report have been in contact with Dream Team Entertainment and their attorney says they have no comment or statement concerning the pending lawsuit.
If you have a story idea send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (October 2014) – The International Black Film Festival of Nashville (IBFFN) announces the continuation of its“2014 Festival Lite” line-up which will showcase the Tennessee Premiere of Relativity Studios’ critically acclaimed feature film “Beyond the Lights”.
IBFFN, in collaboration with the historic Fisk University, will present a panel discussion featuring Writer/Director Gina Prince-Bythewood and Actor Nate Parker on the “Depiction of Black Love in Film” on Wednesday, November 5, at 4:00 pm in Jubilee Hall, Appleton Room on the campus of Fisk University, 1000 17th Avenue North, Nashville, TN. The panel is open to the public at no charge.
“Beyond the Lights“, starring GuGu Mbatha-Raw (Belle), Nate Parker as (Secret Life of Bees, The Great Debaters) tells the story of Noni (Mbatha-Raw), the music world’s latest superstar. But not all is what it seems, and the pressures of fame have Noni on the edge – until she meets Kaz Nicole (Parker), a young cop and aspiring politician who’s been assigned to her detail. Drawn to each other, Noni and Kaz fall fast and hard, despite the protests of those around them who urge them to put their career ambitions ahead of their romance. But it is ultimately Kaz’s love that gives Noni the courage to find her own voice and break free to become the artist she was meant to be. The film makes its debut in theaters across the country on November 14, 2014.
All events scheduled for this year will be apart of an abbreviated version of the full festival, appropriately titled “2014 Festival Lite”. With support and direction of the new IBFFN Board of Directors and Advisory Committee, the festival is eager to return to its regularly scheduled format in 2015.
“2014 Festival Lite” will continue to offer unique and engaging programming inclusive of premiere screenings, workshops and networking opportunities throughout the year.
“We are honored to have esteemed writer/director Gina Prince-Bythewood share her insight and vision with our Nashville audience. Gina’s presence at IBFFN represents the achievement of a major milestone for us, as we have always followed her work. We are equally excited for the return of Nate Parker who has been a specical guest of IBFFN at a previous festival. As “Beyond the Lights” has made its rounds to sold out crowds at major film festivals around the globe, we also have heard that the film has already generated some Oscar buzz. We are also proud to partner with Fisk University, which has a rich history steeped in the arts and film”, said IBFFN Founder Hazel Joyner-Smith.
Over the next few weeks expect updates, highlights and exciting announcements. If you would like to setup an interview, obtain media credentials, synopsis, please contact Sherlene Shanklin at (502) 295-0435. You may also email us at info@ibffnashville.com or call the festival office at (615) 565-9256. Please visit our website at www.ibffnashville.com for event details. Ticketing information for the screening will be available soon.
The Muhammad Ali Center held a news conference Thursday to talk about CONGO14 Louisville and the Second Annual Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards.
Donald Lassere, CEO for the Muhammad Ali Center announced the following as this year’s recipients: Jim Brown, Mick Eberling, Susan Sarandon and Common.
Brown, former NFL star who played for the Cleveland Browns. He stood up for civil rights and fought for equality and against injustice. He’s the recipient of the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Lifetime Achievement Award.
Eberling is receiving the Humanitarian of the Year Award. He’s the founder and CEO of Not Impossible, LLC, an organization that develops creative solutions to real-world problems.
Sarandon, an Academy-Award winning actress and social and economic activist will receive the award for Global Citizenship.
Common will be honored with the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Award for Education. The multi-Grammy Award winner, actor, poet and activist is known for motivating and empowering collegiate minds.
This year’s Muhammad Ali Kentucky Humanitarian Award will be presented to Robert and Deborah Blair. They are the founders of the West End School in Louisville. The school is a free, private, college preparatory school for young men.
Ali will also honor six young people who exemplies one of his core principles of confidence, conviction, dedication, giving, respect and spirituality. Recipients are from New York, Kenya, Colombia, Iowa, California and Malaysia.
Some of the people who will be presenters during the Saturday, September 27th event at the Louisville Marriott Downtown will be: Lonnie Ali, Brad Montague, Robby Novak, Holly Robinson-Peete, William Mapother, Pamela Brown and Congressman John Yarmuth.
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the “Rumble in the Jungle” where Ali battled against George Foreman in the historical boxing match. The Ali Center will host a benefit concert featuring two-time Grammy award artist Bruno Mars, multi-Grammy award winners The Temptations Review featuring Dennis Edwards and rising stars Southern Sirens according to Lassere.
Mars only has a few dates left on his tour schedule so fans will be in for a treat by listening to his hits like “Grenade”, “If I Were Your Man”, plus many others. Fans of The Temptations get to hear the rich Motown sound and high energy performance. You will hear songs like “My Girl”, “Papa Was A Rollin’ Stone” to “Get Ready”. The Southern Sirens will also perform during the concert. Lassere says its just a matter of time before everyone will know their name.
The Ali Center Benefit Concert will be Saturday, September 20th at the Kentucky International Convention Center. Tickets range from $50 to $200. Discounts are available for military families, educators, and students. Show your ticket stub and receive free admission to the Ali Center.
For additional information on both events visit the Muhammad Ali Center website at www.alicenter.org.
If you have a story idea send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. You can also follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm or @Sherlenemediapr. (creator of The VIPP Report).
The VIPP Report: The husband of Bravo’s Housewives of Atlanta Phaedra Parks will have to turn himself into federal custody. The U.S. Department of Justice Georgia, Atlanta Division paperwork says Apollo Nida, 35, will voluntarily surrender on September 10th at 12:00 p.m. He will serve his eight year prison sentence at the FMC Lexington. Yes, that’s in the state of Kentucky.
I’m looking at the letter and its dated August 26th and stamped by a federal court on August 27th. Nida was sentenced on July 8th of this year to eight years in prison followed by five years of supervised release for conspiring to commit mail, wire and bank fraud. His initial arrest was in January and he pleaded guilty in May for charges in a fraud scheme where millions of dollars was stolen over a four year time period with at least 50 victims according to federal prosecutors.
Following Nida’s stay in a Lexington, Ky prison he will have a five years of supervised release, known to many as probation.
This is Nida’s second stint in federal prison. He served five years for auto title fraud. This was prior to his marriage to reality star and attorney Phaedra Parks.
The Lincoln Foundation presents the 19th Annual Evening of Jazz featuring Marcus Click. For interviews contact info@vippcommunications.com
Follow The VIPP Report at @VIPPComm. To have our team cover your event contact us at thevippreport@vippcommunications.com.
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The VIPP Report: Drake and Lil Wayne will be in concert in Cincinnati, Ohio. The two hip hop superstars decided to co-headline a tour. The 31 city tour will cross the United States and will make a stop at Riverbend Music Center on Friday, August 15th. Tickets go on sale this Friday, June 20th at 10:00 a.m.
The Drake vs Lil Wayne tour ticket prices are pretty reasonable ranging from $35.00 to $125.50. You can purchase them at ticketmaster.com, riverbend.org or by calling 800-745-3000.
If you have a story idea send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. You can also follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm.
The VIPP Report: Civil right activist and comedian Dick Gregory will take the stage on Wednesday, June 18th in Louisville for one show only at the Laughing Derby at Comedy Caravan. The 83year old has produced 15 comedy albums and written 14 books just to name a few of his accolades. His live performance is not for the shy. His “Tell it like it is” approach brings current events and humor to another level.
Gregory is no stranger to Louisville. He’s been here several times in support of the late Rev. Louis Coleman and civil rights issues. In 2002, Gregory along with Martin Luther King III and other leaders walked the streets of Louisville in protest of the death of James Taylor who was killed by police.
It will be interesting to hear what Gregory will say tomorrow night at the Laughing Derby. Comedian Steve Hofstetter from the Late Late Show will open for Gregory.
The show starts at 7:45 p.m. and tickets are $20 per person. The Laughing Derby at Comedy Caravan is located at the Mid-City Mall, 1250 Bardstown Road.
Next event: June 19th-21st will be Comedian Mark Curry.
If you have a story idea send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. You can also follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm.
The VIPP Report: The Midnight train from Georgia will make a story in Louisville. The Empress of Soul, Gladys Knight will be in concert at the Louisville Palace on Friday, September 12th at 8:00 p.m.
The seven-time Grammy Award winner got her start in the church performing gospel music at the age of four. She along with her brother, sister and two cousins, in 1959 The Pips were born. In 1962, the group was renamed Gladys Knight & The Pips. Now, you can see Knight starring in the syndicated sitcom, “The First Family” where she plays the mother of the President. Her film credits include “I Can Do Bad All By Myself”.
Tickets for Gladys Knight starts at $39.99. You can purchase them at the Louisville Palace Theatre Box Office and ticketmaster.com.If you have a story idea send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. You can also follow us on @VIPPComm.
The VIPP Report: As part of the 64th Annual Women’s International Convention/Crusade there will be a gospel explosion tonight at the KFC Yum! Center. The pre-convention concert welcomes Pastor Donnie McClurkin, Dorinda Clark Cole and Anita Wilson. The concert is $20 for adults and $10 for children. The event is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.
The Church of God in Christ, Inc (COGIC) will hold their convention May 26-30 in Louisville at two venues, The Galt House and the KFC Yum! Center. Some 10,000 people will be town over the next five days.
If you have a story idea send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. You can also follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm.
The VIPP Report: I wanted to share with you some exclusive photos of Sculptor Ed Hamilton at work. I watched Hamilton carefully work his way up and down the piece carefully defining creases in the sleeve of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s jacket to Hamilton looking him in the eyes as if they were talking. To see a visionary in the arts create the likeness of another visionary in the civil rights movement was truly a historic moment. I even caught him closing his eyes as if he was trying to remember Dr. King and his image. Hamilton had this determination in his eyes that everything had to be perfect before he sent it to be bronzed. This weekend his vision came to life.
The City of Newport News commissioned the Louisville artist to create “The Unfinished March”. It’s a bas relief of Dr. King along with the men, women and children walking along side of the civil right leader is located at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza at 25th and Jefferson Avenue.
Hamilton says “I’m truly humbled and honored that the City of Newport News asked me to recreate a moment in Civil Rights that marked a significant piece of history. People from all over the world will be able to see how I captured Dr. King and other civil right leaders walk for freedom, justice and opportunity. When you walk away, I want it to give you a sense of pride and hope for the future.”
Other works Hamilton has designed is the 16th President of the United States and Kentucky native Abraham Lincoln with the Lincoln Memorial which is located along the Ohio River in downtown Louisville. He’s known for but not limited to is The Booker T. Washington Memorial in Hampton, VA, Spirit of Freedom in Washington D.C., Joe Louis Memorial in Detroit, MI and the Amistad Memorial in New Haven, CT.
Hamilton has an autobiography, “The Birth of An Artist: A Journey of Discovery” (Chicago Spectrum Press). The book outlines his journey from hopeful art student in Louisville, Kentucky to nationally acclaimed sculptor.
To learn more about Ed Hamilton and his works contact VIPP Communications at 502-582-7716 or by email info@vippcommunications.com.
(Click link to see photos of the Hamilton working on “The Unfinished March”)
Jamie Foxx on the “Purple Carpet”. (May 2, 2014, Louisville, KY)
Kentucky Derby weekend
Julius “Dr. J” Erving on the “Purple Carpet”. Kentucky Derby weekend 2014
Ron Isley of the Isley Brothers
The VIPP Report: If you missed the members of New Edition (Bell Biv Devoe) during Derby at the 100 Black Men annual gala you now have another chance to see them. On Sunday, July 6th New Edition returns to the KFC Yum! Center. Tickets go on sale this Friday (May 9th). The concert is scheduled to take place at 7:00 p.m. Tickets for the Sunday, July 6th concert start at $46.50.
The last time the whole group performed in Louisville was in February 2012. They will feature Doug E. Fresh. He also attended Derby this year. He was at the Grand Gala serving as the co-host.
If you have a story idea, send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. You can also follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm.
The VIPP Report: Neo-soul artist Maxwell will be performing at the Louisville Palace on Tuesday, July 22nd at 8:00 p.m.. The last time the he was in Louisville he had no problem filling the 2,700 seat venue and this time will be no different even with the concert on a Tuesday.
Maxwell signed with Columbia Records in 1994. To date he’s released four albums, one live and three studio albums. The double platinum artist will sing some of his biggest hits “Pretty Wings”, “Love You”, “Lifetime”, and “Fortunate”.
Tickets range from $39.50 to $125.00. If you have story idea send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. You can also follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm.
The VIPP Report: We just nine days away from the 140th Kentucky Derby held in Louisville on the first Saturday in May. The race will take place at the historic Churchill Downs. The VIPP Report will attend events and will post. To get real-time celebrity-sightings, inside some of the biggest events during Derby follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm. If you have a story idea and/or would like to advertise contact us at TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com.
The River City Drum Cultural Arts Institute welcomes drum lines to the city of Louisville for the battle of bragging rights during the 8th Annual Da’Ville Classic Drum Line Showcase. It’s all goes down this Saturday, April 26th at Iroquois Amphitheater. Community teams, high schools and colleges will show what that have by using precision and skill. The showcase will begin at 3:00 p.m. and tickets are only $10.00 per person for the official Kentucky Derby Festival event.
Miles College and Lincoln University will represent the post-secondary division. There will be four area schools in the high school division. They are Central High School, Louisville, KY; Art Academy, Columbus, OH; Columbus East, Columbus, OH; and the Academy of Shawnee, Louisville, KY. There will be six community teams in attendance representing Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio and Illinois. The River City Drum Corp, Louisville, KY; Saints, Columbus, OH; 3DI, Dayton, OH; Pick Percussions Pulse of Peoria, Illinois; Boom Squad, Evansville, IN and the Shawnee Arts & Cultural Center will all perform.
Ed White, Executive Director says “I’m happy to see so many teams both local and surrounding states participate in the showcase. Youth have been practicing for months for this opportunity and they will be bringing everything they’ve got. I along with the other teams make a conscious effort to help our youth achieve both in the classroom and in life. We provide great after-school opportunities for our youth and they earn scholarships not only in academics but in music.”
To purchase tickets you can call Ed White at 502-905-2908.
The VIPP Report: R&B senasation R. Kelly returns to Louisville and he will bring along Grammy-nominated artist Tamar Braxton with him. Kelly is calling it the Black Panties Tour entitled after his latest album. The concert is Sunday, May 11th at the KFC Yum! Center. Kelly is one of the most successful R&B artists of all time. He has released 12 solo studio albums and sold nearly 100 million albums worldwide, making him one of the most successful R&B male artists in the industry.
Tickets for the show start at $52. You can purchase them at the KFC Yum! Center Box Office and all Ticketmaster outlets.
If you have a story idea and/or would like The VIPP Report to cover your event contact us at TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. You can also follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm.
The VIPP Report: We are now only 27 days away from the 140th running of the Kentucky Derby. If you have a story idea and/or would like to advertise please contact us at TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm. #FirstSaturdayinMay
The VIPP Report: Hip hop artist Lil Boosie will “zoom” into Louisville on Friday, May 2nd at Broadbent Arena. This is one of the first concerts for the artist since his release from a prison on March 5th. His most notable song “Zoom” stayed on the Billboard Top 100 chart for several weeks thanks to his loyal fans.
If you plan to attend this concert, you must be over 21 years of age to enter. General admission tickets start at $50.
If you have a Kentucky Derby event you want to promote contact our advertising division at TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. Follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm.
The VIPP Report: It’s the “All of Me Tour” featuring singer-songwriter and nine-time Grammy Award winner John Legend will be in concert at Horseshoe Casino located in Southern Indiana. The concert is scheduled for Thursday, April 10th in “The Showroom”. Legend says this is unlike any tour he’s done before. Fans can expect an intimate, raw and unplugged show.
If you have a story you would like The VIPP Report to cover send your request and/or idea to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com.
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The VIPP Report: We are 49 days away! If you would like to advertise your Kentucky Derby event(s) contact us at TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com.
The VIPP Report: March 5, 2014 marks the 50th anniversary on the “March on Frankfort” which was initially in support of equity in public accommodations. We spoke to the last surviving organizer Sen. Georgia Davis Powers. In 1967, Powers became the first person of color and the first woman elected to the Kentucky State Senate. She will be in attendance Wednesday and at the age of 80 will take the historic walk once again. Powers says she will be speak right after the Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear in the program.
The rally will commemorate what Civil Rights leaders accomplished by urging Kentucky to pass a law that would help end segregation by making discrimination illegal in the area of public accommodations such as stores, restaurants, theatres, and hotels. The march helped build support for the U.S. Civil Rights Act of 1964 and helped result in the Kentucky Civil Rights Act of 1966.
Local organizers will meet at the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage and convoy to Frankfort, Kentucky.
The VIPP Report will take you up close to the place where Dr. Martin Luther King, baseball Hall of Famer Jackie Robinson, Sen. Georgia Davis Powers, Kentucky Civil Rights leaders and 10,000 marchers converged on the capitol in Frankfort, Kentucky in 1964 making the Bluegrass state the first south of the Mason-Dixon Line to have a state Civil Rights Act.
The march will begin at 10:00 a.m. People will gather at the corner of 2nd Street and Capital Avenue at 9:30 a.m. to line up in order to proceed to the State Capitol, 700 Capitol Ave.
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The VIPP Report: In a raw interview with Louisville native Ben “Digital Black” Bush of Playa he opens up to Sherlene Shanklin of WHAS11 and owner of the The VIPP Report about Stephan “Static Major” Garrett. Bush talks about the call he received from Static’s wife six years ago today.
Below is a link for your review. If you have a story idea send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. You can also follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm. You can follow Sherlene Shanklin at @Sherlenemediapr.
The VIPP Report by Sherlene Shanklin: Today friends and family paid their final respects to one of the last living members of the Tuskegee Airmen. Louisvillian Alvin LaRue Sr.passed away on Monday, February 3rd. LaRue was a flight officer for the Tuskegee Airmen and World War II veteran. He retired from the Army Corps of Engineers.
I had the once in a lifetime opportunity to find the Kentucky members of the prestigious Alabama unit about 13 years ago for Black History Month. The first person I found was Alvin LaRue Sr. I knew him because I knew his son. We sat down and talked about his accomplishments and how important it was to let people know their history. I remember that he was very humble and so willing to share his story about the segregation in the Army even though they were all fighting for the same thing.
LaRue is a native of Louisville and he was a student at the University of Pittsburgh when he was drafted into the U. S. Army in 1943. LaRue then went on to become one of America’s first Black military airmen.
LaRue was buried today at the Kentucky Veterans Cemetery in Radcliff, KY. Alvin LaRue Sr. was 89 year old.
During this Black History Month remember those who made sacrifices so that their children, and their children’s children could have a better life.
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The VIPP Report: We are 80 days away from the 140th running of the Kentucky Oaks on Friday, May 2nd and Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 3rd in Louisville, KY at the historic Churchill Downs.
If you have an event you would like to advertise contact us at TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. Follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm.
The VIPP Report: Dove & BET award winning gospel artist Marvin Sapp is currently on his “School of Choice Tour”. The 11-city free tour is in Louisville, KY tonight. Sapp along with Sunday Best season two contestant and RCA Inspiration label mate Latice Crawford and the Doctor of Comedy Henn Sapp will be at Christ Temple Christian Life Center.
Sapp will share his inspirational story of his late wife Dr. Malinda Sapp who had a vision to take inner city children from great to greater through education. Sapp says he’s excited about partnering with the Black Alliance for Educational Options Partner (BAEO) again, helping to promote school choice to urban communities. Their hope during the tour is to make parents aware of their options when it comes to public education.
After Louisville’s show, The “Marvin Sap School of Choice Tour” heads to Nashville, TN on the 12th, followed by Chattanooga, TN on the 13th and Atlanta, GA on Friday night, February 14th.
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The VIPP Report: In the February edition of Ebony Magazine renowned sculptor Ed Hamilton has one of his pieces featured. The African American Civil War Memorial began in 1992 as a Bill in Congress presented by Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton of the District of Columbia. Work began to develop the site and select an artist to design the commemorative art piece. The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities commissioned The Spirit of Freedom designed by artist Ed Hamilton from Louisville, KY. To learn more about Hamilton contact sshanklin@vippcommunications.com.
The VIPP Report: Kirk Franklin and the Family will be in Louisville during Kentucky Derby weekend. It’s the 2nd Annual Grace at The Race featuring Tamela Mann, Amy Grant and Franklin. The concert will be held on Thursday, May 1st at the Kentucky Center for the Arts in downtown Louisville. The fly jock Tom Joyner will be the emcee for the evening.
Grace at The Race is an annual Pre-Derby event that will honor three individuals from the corporate, sports and entertainment sectors for their commitment and contributions to community service and raises funds for local and national non-profit organizations that have a focus on at risk children.
“Grace at The Race” will be held on Thursday, May 1st at the Galt House for dinner from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. followed by the concert. If you would like to have dinner prior to the concert, there will be a “Grace at The Race” dinner which includes a concert ticket. For both events tickets are $125.00 before March 1st and $150.00 after that date. During the dinner local gospel artist Cynthia Williams will be featured.
If you would like to just attend the concert you purchase single tickets before March 1st for only $67.00, after March 1st, tickets are $77.00. For group sales call 502-417-1624.
For additional information on “Grace at The Race”, please visit http://www.graceattherace.com.
If you have a Kentucky Derby event you would like to promote contact our advertising dept. at TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. Follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm for real-time coverage.
The VIPP Report: The Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival announced their concert lineup. Multi-Grammy award winning star Chaka Khan is scheduled to perform. Khan’s catalog is so extensive with mega hits “Through the Fire” and “I Feel for You”.
Other artists performing will be Crystal Gayle, Toni Braxton, Chrisette Michele and Aaron Neville.
The Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival is from Thursday, January 30th through February 1st at the Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium. For additional information visit www.jamaicajazzandblues.com.
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If you have an event you would like to advertise contact us at TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com.
LaSonya Berry, President/CEO of McPherson, Berry & Associates, Inc. (McPherson|Berry) was launched on January 10th, an interactive chat amongst professionals who only have a few minutes to spare in a workday. It’s called “Mocha Minute™”. The new online water cooler is designed for executives, leaders, managers, business students and professionals. Mocha Minute™ will initiate the dialogue to promote social learning and provide thought provoking discussion. The idea is to be able to do it within an allotted time you take a 15 minute break in your workplace. The new type of online water chat will only take a few minutes of your time but provide you invaluable information from leaders you rarely have access to in the workplace.
LaSonya Berry, CEO of McPherson|Berry says “I was very happy with the execution of the first “Mocha Minute”. Within the 15-minute break we were able to open the dialogue and answer questions from professionals interested in training, hiring and leadership coaching. This is a great start for the monthly chat. I encourage you to participate in the February online discussion.”
The next Mocha Minute will be Friday, February 14th at 11:00 a.m. (EST). Grab your mocha, latte, coffee, tea or water and take a minute out of your busy schedule to chat online about important business matters with Mocha Minute™. The online break will give you an outlet to discuss all things business from the latest trends, workforce challenges, industry news, HR, career/management concerns and power tips. We invite you to engage in the conversation.
Mocha Minute™ will take place every 2nd Friday of each month at 11:00 a.m. We invite you to engage in the discussion. Follow us on Twitter @McPhersonBerry to get real-time responses.
If you have a story idea send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. You can also follow us on twitter @VIPPComm.
The VIPP Report: Multi-platinum R & B/Soul artist Mary J. Blige’s father is currently in critical condition in a Michigan hospital. Police say 63 year old Thomas Blige was allegedly stabbed by his ex-girlfriend. The incident happened around 7:00 a.m. Thursday morning in Blige’s apartment. The suspect is currently in a Calhoun County jail charged with attempted murder and she is expected to be arraigned Friday.
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The VIPP Report: We are just 100 days away from the fastest two minutes in sports. Countdown to the Kentucky Derby. If you have an event you would like to promote contact our advertising dept. by emailing TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com.
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
We are just 103 days away from the Kentucky Derby. The VIPP Report will have exclusive stories about events in Louisville. To advertise your business and/or event contact us at TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com.
The VIPP Report: Louisville native, former WNBA star and current New York Liberty Fan Development Leader Kym Hampton can add reality show star to her resume. She will be apart of “Mom’s Got Game” starting tonight, January 18th at 10:00 p.m. on the OWN Network.
Hampton says the show is about family, love, basketbal, real life issues, good times and you know me its comedy driven. I was able to get in touch with Hampton. I wanted to know more about the show and her role. Hampton tells me “the show is about my girl Pamela McGee who is highly accomplished and SUPER strong-willed. Pam is trying to help her son (NBA star JaVale McGee) stay on the straight and narrow as a rich, young celebrity. Back in the day, we battled on the court uring college and our professional years. We were tough down lowbut morphed into GLAMAZONS after the game. Life took us on our separate journeys but has now has circled back. I feel like this is our time to focus on us again…we just have to convince Pam!”
Hampton played basketball at Iroquois High School in Louisville then went onto Arizona State University on a full scholarship. After her collegiate career she was drafted 4th overall in the 1997 WNBA draft by the New York Liberty. Kym played in the league’s inaugural game and scored the first basket. She started every game of her three seasons. She also played in Spain, Italy, Japan and France.
Hampton is an original Cover Girl model for Queen Latifah’s Queen Collection. You can catch her from time to time still on the basketball court, not playing but singing the National Athem. She used her theatre degree from Arizona State to be apart of several films and television shows such as the “Cosby Show”, “Thrown Down” hosted by Bobby Flay, “JuWanna Mann” and “She Hate Me”.
Hampton says you don’t want to miss it because its guaranteed to make you laugh. “Mom’s Got Game” airs tonight at 10:00 p.m. on the OWN Network. Hampton will be tweeting live so you can follow her @KymHampton.
If you have a story for The VIPP Report send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. You can also follow us on Twitter for real-time news events @VIPPComm.
TheVIPPReport: We are 112 days away from the 140 Kentucky Derby held in Louisville, KY. Send your Derby events to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com.
On the “Purple Carpet” at the Grand Gala
TheVIPPReport: Dudley Products Louisville & Dudley Q Kentucky, a leader in urban hair care and cosmetics is launching their 3rd Sunday Protect & Respect the Beauty Industry Series. Each month Tami Charles, owner of Dudley Products Louisville will dedicate a Sunday to focus on the trends of hair care from natural to salt & pepper/silver hair. She will showcase hair weave and even fantasy hair along with a barber and hair battles.
January’s event will be “Hair color”. Stylist and students from area salons will get an opportunity to talk about the current trends and see how they can incorporate color and care into their clients’ styles.
There will also be a hair show and competition by Kentucky barbers and stylist. Local Barbers and stylist art by Miller Tyme barbershop, Savina’s top notch salon and the Spotlight Artist is Mrs. Nica Jones-Burton of Nu look Salon.
The 3rd Sunday Series will be January 19th from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage, 1701 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd.
Charles’ Dudley Q Kentucky team will focus on strengthen and informing the public and beauty community by providing opportunities to educate and sharpen their hair care skills through workshops and seminars. . Charles is the only authorized Dudley professional and retail store located at 332 W. Broadway.
This month guests will get an opportunity to meet the Co-founder Dr. Joe L. Dudley Sr. He has a success story that needs to be heard. As a child, they labeled him mentally retarded. He overcame the struggles and worked hard be a true trailblazer in the hair care industry. He’s received numerous awards from the Horatio Alger (rags to riches) award to presently receiving the Got Entrepreneur Award in 2013 from both the state of North Carolina and South Carolina. These honors will go into the history books because Dudley is the first African American to receive the awards.
Dudley says he enjoys coming to Louisville and loves to see how the professionals embrace the products and instructors, “There is a special spirit among the people at Dudley products that makes us stand out from most organizations. We are serious about self-improvement and empowering others. We are committed to having a life of abundance. We are excited beyond words about life and all of the opportunity that it offers. We have been conditioned to give up such words as I can’t and I won’t and replace them with an attitude of I AM! I CAN! & I WILL”.
If you are interested in participating, you can do the following: be a spotlight artist, be involved in the competition, showcase, be a vendor, advertise in the program and/or donate prizes.
General admission is $12 per person. Licensed professionals/students who would like to participate in the hair color class on January 20th at the same location are $10.
To learn more go to http://www.thirdsunday.info or call 502-286-9281. You can also log onto http://www.dudleyproductslouisville.com to learn more about the product line.
If you have a story idea, send it to TheVIPPReport@vippcommunications.com. You can also follow us on Twitter @VIPPComm.
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