New Stage. A Renewed Legacy: Louisville Central Community Centers to Launch State-of-the-Art Grand Lyric Theater Through Family Arts Academy, Featuring The Curtis Family C-Notes  

Upcoming Cultural Programming: The Curtis Family C-Notes Residency

Building upon the momentum of its opening season, the Grand Lyric Theater is thrilled to announce an upcoming week-long residency featuring the acclaimed, San Francisco-based soul and funk family band The Curtis Family C-Notes (“C Fam”) from August 17 to August 22, 2026. Known for their vibrant multi-instrumental performances, appearances on America’s Got Talent (Season 16), and recognition as “The San Francisco First Family of Song,” the family group will headline a series of community events at LCCC.

The special week features:

Family Arts Camp (August 17 – 19): Engaging local youth and families in interactive workshops in creative arts, music programming, and entertainment industry essentials.

VIP Gala (August 20): Corporate and civic leaders will gather for a Midsummer Night’s Soirée, an exclusive evening of fine dining and entertainment, celebrating community partnership, arts education, and cultural enrichment.

Community Concert Series (August 21-22): Unforgettable live performances with the C-Notes and friends on the Grand

Lyric Theater stage showcasing their signature soul, funk, and R&B repertoire.

Community members, supporters, and media partners can learn more, register for camp sessions, secure gala access, and purchase concert tickets through the official LCCC event portals:

• Family Arts Camp Registration

• VIP Gala Tickets

• Community Series & Ticketing

• Meet The Curtis Family C-Notes on YouTube

About Louisville Central Community Centers, Inc. (LCCC):

LCCC is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive, family-centered services that foster self-reliance, economic development, and neighborhood revitalization in Louisville’s historic Russell neighborhood.

Media Contact & Inquiries: VIPP Communications, Email: pr at vippcommunications dot com.

New Stage. A Renewed Legacy: Louisville Center Community Centers to Launch State-of-the-Art Grand Lyric Theater Through Family Arts Academy, Featuring The Curtis Family C-Notes

LOUISVILLE, KY (August 2, 2026) — Louisville Central Community Centers, Inc. (LCCC) proudly announces the grand opening of the Grand Lyric Theater, marking a transformative cultural milestone in the heart of the Russell neighborhood. Located at 1300 W. Muhammad Ali Boulevard, the new venue represents the visionary redevelopment of
the historic Old Walnut Street campus—transforming a former industrial block into a vibrant community and cultural hub. The theater’s name honors the rich history of “Old Walnut Street,” a once-thriving African American commercial and cultural corridor impacted by 1960s urban renewal.

Event Highlights & Historic Opening
The Grand Lyric’s opening celebration will feature a “big impact week” of programs and events that bring together children, families, business and civic leaders, and cultural icons under a common banner of family and community development.

Beyond the Ribbon: A Call to Action & Operational Sustainability
While the grand opening commemorates the successful completion of major capital development, LCCC is actively pivoting toward long-term operational sustainability. The organization is issuing a formal call-to-action for funding partners, stakeholders, performing artists, producers and community leaders to join a newly formed Operating Advisory Group. This leadership collective will support the ongoing economic viability of the Grand Lyric Theater as a premier magnet for the arts and a catalyst for continued investment across West Louisville.

“This is more than a building; it is a renewed legacy,” states Dr. Kevin E. Fields, Sr., President and CEO of LCCC. “We are transitioning from an industrial past to a creative future, ensuring this theater serves as a stage for community empowerment for generations to come.”

Upcoming Cultural Programming: The Curtis Family C-Notes Residency
Building upon the momentum of its opening season, the Grand Lyric Theater is thrilled to announce an upcoming week long residency featuring the acclaimed, San Francisco-based soul and funk family band The Curtis Family C-Notes (“C Fam”) from August 17 to August 22, 2026. Known for their vibrant multi-instrumental performances, appearances on
America’s Got Talent (Season 16), and recognition as “The San Francisco First Family of Song,” the family group will headline a series of community events at LCCC.

The special week features:
Family Arts Camp (August 17 – 19): Engaging local youth and families in interactive workshops in creative arts, music programming, and entertainment industry essentials.
VIP Gala (August 20): Corporate and civic leaders will gather for a Midsummer Night’s Soirée, an exclusive evening of fine dining and entertainment, celebrating community partnership, arts education, and cultural enrichment.
Community Concert Series (August 21-22): Unforgettable live performances with the C-Notes and friends on the Grand Lyric Theater stage showcasing their signature soul, funk, and R&B repertoire.
Community members, supporters, and media partners can learn more, register for camp sessions, secure gala access, and purchase concert tickets through the official LCCC event portals:

  • Family Arts Camp Registration
  • VIP Gala Tickets
  • Community Series & Ticketing
  • Meet The Curtis Family C-Notes on YouTube
  • About Louisville Central Community Centers, Inc. (LCCC):
    LCCC is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive, family-centered services that
    foster self-reliance, economic development, and neighborhood revitalization in Louisville’s historic Russell neighborhood.

Upcoming Storytellers Empowers Louisville Youth Through Hands-On Filmmaking Program, Culminating in Public Movie Premiere

Story Overview

Upcoming Storytellers, a Louisville-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is preparing the next generation of filmmakers through its annual Summer Film Program.

During the week-long program (July 20–24), students ages 14–18 work alongside professional filmmakers from Media Pros Productions to create original short films from concept to completion.

Rather than attending lectures, students write, produce, film, act, direct, and edit professional-quality productions using industry-standard equipment.

The experience concludes with a public red-carpet double-feature premiere at Cinemark Tinseltown Louisville on Saturday, July 25, where students will debut two original films:

• 50mm Grit

• The Drift

The event is free and open to the public.

Key Story Angles

• Louisville youth gaining real-world career experience in film and digital media.

• Students working with professional cameras, lighting, sound, directing, editing, and production teams.

• Young filmmakers premiering their work in a commercial movie theater.

• Building confidence, leadership, teamwork, communication, and creative problem-solving through storytelling.

• Removing financial barriers by offering the program at no cost to students.

• Community partnerships helping provide transportation and access.

About Upcoming Storytellers

Upcoming Storytellers is a Louisville-based nonprofit dedicated to preparing the next generation of storytellers through hands-on education in filmmaking, photography, podcasting, and digital media.

Students gain real-world experience by working alongside industry professionals on meaningful creative projects that prepare them for college, careers, and the creative economy.

Event Information

Upcoming Storytellers Double Feature Premiere

• Saturday, July 25, 2026

• Doors Open: 6:00 PM

• Films Begin: 6:15 PM

• Cinemark Tinseltown Louisville

• 4400 Towne Center Drive

• Louisville, KY 40241

Admission is free.

Interview Opportunities

• Brelin Tilford, Co-Founder

• Ellyn Tilford, Co-Founder

• Student filmmakers

• Parents

• Media Pros mentors

• Community partners

B-Roll Opportunities

• Students filming on professional cameras

• Directing actors

• Editing footage

• Audio recording

• Crew collaboration

• Behind-the-scenes production

• Premiere audience reactions

• Red carpet arrivals

• Q&A with students after the screening

Call to Action

The community is invited to attend this free event, celebrate Louisville’s next generation of storytellers, and help ensure more young people have access to opportunities like this.

Donations made during the event will directly support Upcoming Storytellers’ mission to provide free, hands-on filmmaking experiences and prepare students for careers in the creative industries.

To setup an interview (in-studio or onsite) contact VIPP Communications at info@vippcommunications.com.  

Media Advisory: Whitney M. Young Scholars Program Banquet

Over $7 Million in College Scholarships Earned by 32 Scholars!


[Louisville, Kentucky] – Join Lincoln Foundation on May 17, 2025, at 6 PM for the annual Whitney M. Young Scholars Program Banquet, proudly presented by Baird Financial. This prestigious event will celebrate the outstanding academic achievements of our high school seniors, honoring their hard work and dedication.

The 32 seniors in the Class of 2025 have earned over $7 million in college scholarships. Lincoln Foundation will award over $100,000 in additional scholarships to deserving students who have completed the 5-year Whitney M. Young Scholars Program. These scholarships will further their educational journeys and expand their future
opportunities. Metro United Way President & CEO Adria Johnson will deliver the evening’s keynote address, inspiring and charging the scholars to strive for excellence and embrace their potential to make a positive impact on the world.

Prepare for an inspiring evening filled with celebration, recognition, and community spirit as we honor the remarkable accomplishments of these young scholars. Your presence will support their continued success in higher education.

Event Location
WHERE: Bellarmine University, Frazier Hall
Address: 2001 Newburg Road, Louisville, KY 40205
Home – Lincoln Foundation

METRO DISABILITY COALITION WILL RECOGNIZE INDIVIDUALS WHO BREAK BARRIERS IN OUR COMMUNITY

Save the Date:

The evening of May 8, 2026, will be the MDC annual Breaking Barriers Spotlight Award Ceremony. This event would take place at U of L Rudd and Heart Lung Center located at 201 Abraham Flexner Way. During this ceremony we will recognize students, teachers, and community leaders who has went above and beyond the call of duty. There will be vendors starting at 4:30 pm followed by ceremony at 5:00 pm.

The Metro Disability Coalition (MDC) Inc is a nonprofit organization that was established in 2001. While serving individuals with disabilities throughout the Louisville metro area. The MDC Mission is to advocate and educate individuals seeking inclusion and accessibility. By continuing to break barriers for public education, public transportation, public housing, and community infrastructure. By doing this it helps individuals to have a better quality of life.

We are excited to announce the following Breaking Barriers Awards honorees:

Lifetime Achievement Award – Chuck Rogers

Merit Award – Briana Williams

Spotlight Award – Carla Ruschival

Special Recognition Certificate Winners:

Lecretia Dennis

Victor Gordon

Lorita Rowlett

Michael Bailey

Educator Honorees:

High School: Gwen Snow – ECE/EDL Teacher, Newcomer Academy

Middle School: Stacy Coogle – ECE Implementation Coach Binet School

Elementary: Caleh Miller – ECE Teacher Bloom Elementary

Early Childhood: Tara Patterson – Preschool Teacher George Unseld Preschool 

Student Honorees:

High School: Sophie Torres – Wagganer High School 

Middle School: Nyssa Collett – Hudson Middle School

Elementary School: Lucas Watcher – Hawthorne Elementary School

Sincerely,

Marcellus Mayes, President

Bobbie James, Vice-President, and Chairperson of Breaking Barriers Spotlight Awards 

Metro Disability Coalition, Inc. (MDC, Inc.)

A Non-Profit Organization

Please add our event to your community calendar. We have included a flyer for the event. If you would like to setup an interview with a member of MDC, Inc please contact VIPP Communications at info@vippcommunications.com.

We look forward to seeing you at our event on May 8th.    

WHO: Metro Disabilities Coalition, Inc.

WHAT: Announcing 24th Annual Breaking Barriers Spotlight Awards Ceremony

WHEN: Friday, May 8th at 5:00 p.m.

WHERE: UofL Rudd Heart and Lung Center located at 201 Abraham Flexner Way

WHY: To thank and celebrate those who follow the mission of our organization

METRO DISABILITY COALITION WILL RECOGNIZE INDIVIDUALS WHO BREAK BARRIERS IN OUR COMMUNITY

Save the Date:

The evening of May 8, 2026, will be the MDC annual Breaking Barriers Spotlight Award Ceremony. This event will take place at U of L Rudd and Heart Lung Center located at 201 Abraham Flexner Way. During this ceremony we will recognize students, teachers, and community leaders who has gone above and beyond the call of duty. There will be vendors starting at 4:30 pm followed by ceremony at 5:00 pm.

The Metro Disability Coalition (MDC) Inc is a nonprofit organization that was established in 2001. While serving individuals with disabilities throughout the Louisville metro area. The MDC Mission is to advocate and educate individuals seeking inclusion and accessibility. By continuing to break barriers for public education, public transportation, public housing, and community infrastructure. By doing this it helps individual (s) to have a better quality of life.

Sincerely,

Marcellus Mayes, President

Bobbie James, Vice-President, and Chairperson of Breaking Barriers Spotlight Awards 

Metro Disability Coalition, Inc. (MDC, Inc.)

A Non-Profit Organization

(Louisville, KY) Save the date of Friday, May 8th for the 24th Annual Breaking Barriers Spotlight Awards Ceremony. Hosted by the Metro Disability Coalition, Inc. (MDC, Inc.)

The event will take place at the UofL Rudd Heart and Lung Center located at 201 Abraham Flexner Way.

Please add our event to your community calendar. We have included a flyer for the event. If you would like to setup an interview with a member of MDC, Inc please contact VIPP Communications at info@vippcommunications.com.

In the coming weeks, we will send a news release with the honorees and special guests.

WHO: Metro Disabilities Coalition, Inc.

WHAT: Announcing 24th Annual Breaking Barriers Spotlight Awards Ceremony

WHEN: Friday, May 8th at 5:00 p.m.

WHERE: UofL Rudd Heart and Lung Center located at 201 Abraham Flexner Way

WHY: To thank and celebrate those who follow the mission of our organization

WHEN YOU ARE ‘CHOSEN’ YOU ARE ASKED TO WEAR THE CROWN AND ALL THAT IT BEARS

Dr. Ashley Cham shares the power of Esther and her story of perseverance

(Louisville, KY) CHOSEN Jewels From Queen Esther’s Crown is the latest book authored by business and community leader Dr, Ashley Cham.

Dr. Cham explains the story of Esther in the bible. Each jewel tells a piece of the story. When you have a calling on your life you have just as many setbacks. The CHOSEN are always being tested showing that you have a higher calling. The story unveils the sacrifice it takes to wear the crown.

The book explores Esther’s story. Becoming the queen of Persia and courageously saves her people from annihilation. It takes you through her strength, courage, faith, and divine providence in the face of adversity. It also reminds you that no struggle is too big for God. “Just because he is not mentioned throughout the verses does not mean he was not present. Which brings another poignant observation. Just because it is not mentioned does not mean it is there, says Dr. Cham.”

She goes on to say “In a world where so many women are searching for meaning and impact, Esther’s story is both timeless and urgent. CHOSEN brings to life a season in history when a young woman’s courage and wisdom altered the fate of an entire people—a reminder that even those who feel ordinary are capable of extraordinary influence. Esther was able to change her stars, stepping into a purpose that neither she nor anyone around her could have imagined. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power that comes from recognizing one’s worth and boldly walking in one’s calling.

In current times, more than ever, we need to lift up stories like Esther’s—stories that awaken women to their own potential and inspire all of us to create positive change in the world around us.” You can find in Esther 4:14, that God places individuals in specific, difficult positions for a divine purpose. This is where the common phrase, ‘For such a time as this’ comes from.

Dr. Cham says, ‘Find your crowned calling’ and step out on faith and be fearless in the battles you face today.’

We are excited to share that Dr. Cham is hosting a CHOSEN Jewels From Queen Esther’s Crown book launch which includes a book signing will take place on Sunday, March 8th from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center, 3029 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd.

To setup an interview and/or book Dr. Ashley Cham for your next conference, workshop or bible study contact VIPP Communications at booking@vippcommunications.com or contact our office at 502-341-7306 for availability. 

To preorder CHOSEN Jewels From Queen Esther’s Crown, go to Amazon and you will find in the Christian category. It officially goes on sale on Friday, March 6th

Our merchandise store is open.  You can click the following link to see what’s available: https://the-chosen-collection-1662.myshopify.com/

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CHOSEN Jewels From Queen Esther’s Crown

WHEN YOUR CROWNED CALLING IS UNVEILED EXCELLENCE IS EXPECTED WHEN YOU’RE CHOSEN

Facing opposition and still ruling the throne shows the power of Esther the story of perseverance

(Louisville, KY) Business and community leader Dr, Ashley Cham announces the launch of her new book, CHOSEN Jewels From Queen Esther’s Crown. The launch which also includes a book signing will take place on Sunday, March 8th from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center, 3029 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd.

It is a story of a crowned calling unveiled. It is the story of Esther in the bible. She becomes the queen of Persia and courageously saves her people from annihilation. It takes you through her strength, courage, faith, and divine providence in the face of adversity.

Dr. Cham says “In a world where so many women are searching for meaning and impact, Esther’s story is both timeless and urgent. *Chosen* brings to life a season in history when a young woman’s courage and wisdom altered the fate of an entire people—a reminder that even those who feel ordinary are capable of extraordinary influence. Esther was able to change her stars, stepping into a purpose that neither she nor anyone around her could have imagined. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power that comes from recognizing one is worth and boldly walking in one’s calling. Today, more than ever, we need to lift stories like Esther’s—stories that awaken women to their own potential and inspire all of us to create positive change in the world around us.”

We invite you to cover and/or attend the celebration at the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center to understand the power within yourself. Dr. Cham says, ‘Find your crowned calling’ and step out on faith and be fearless in the battles you face today.’

Tickets for the event can be found on Eventbrite. Here’s a link for you to share with your viewers, https://www.eventbrite.com/e/official-book-launch-event-for-chosen-jewels-from-queen-esthers-crown-tickets-1982403098031?aff=oddtdtcreator

To setup an interview and/or book Dr. Ashley Cham for your next conference, workshop or bible study contact VIPP Communications at booking@vippcommunications.com or contact our office at 502-341-7306 for availability. 

To preorder CHOSEN Jewels From Queen Esther’s Crown, go to Amazon and you will find in the Christian category.

*Churches-please share with your congregations. We would love to share the story of Esther with them.

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CHOSEN Jewels From Queen Esther’s Crown

“Superchef” films pilot cooking show in Louisville

The celebrity chef launches a new show with unique dishes, guests along with local, regional, and national products highlighted

Louisville, Ky) Darnell “Superchef” Ferguson announces that he will do a live taping for his new pilot show in Kentucky. The chef, author, and television personality says, 2026 will be the year for the launch. Save the date of Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 9:00 pm.

The show will be filmed inside a locally owned supermarket. Valu Market is located at 7519 Outer Loop in the Outer Loop Plaza. The store will transform into a tv set while using some of their products during the show.

Superchef says “This is the most important cooking show that has been out. I cannot wait to include Louisville in the production. I am excited about the potential of this show.”

The act of giving back to the city he calls home, Superchef understands the importance of community service and building the hope to others in the community. As a way to say thank you for your support, the show will be donated to Sowing Seeds of Faith’, a nonprofit company based here in Louisville. 

Tickets for the live taping of the pilot can be purchased on Eventbrite under Superchef cooking show pilot tickets. A link is provided below. 

Superchef Cooking Show Pilot Tickets, Sat, Jan 10, 2026 at 9:00 PM | Eventbrite

The show’s name will be announced on Ferguson’s social page along with how you can be an audience member. There will be additional announcements coming soon.

“Superchef” won the ‘Best Thanksgiving Challenge’ on the Food Network, Host of the hit show ‘SUPERCHEF GRUDGE MATCH’ also on the Food Network.  Appearing on the Rachel Ray Show, the Today Show and some of the Food Network’s other top shows from ‘Worst Cooks in America,’ to ‘Chopped.’  In 2008, Ferguson cooked for Team USA for the Summer Olympics in Beijing.

To setup an interview with Darnell ‘Superchef’ Ferguson and/or to cover the live taping please contact VIPP Communications at info at vippcommunications dot com.

Sponsorship and advertising opportunities available.

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Louisville’s Greatest Streetwear Market This Saturday

Supporting small businesses while building a coalition for collaboration

(Louisville, KY) Over Tuft Rugs presents Louisville’s Greatest Streetwear. It takes place on Saturday, November 15th from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the First Gethsemane gym located at 1159 Algonquin Pkwy.

The day will be filled with guest speakers, giveaways, contests and of course thirty (30) plus of vendors. This free event gives businesses an opportunity to display their brand while garnering community support. There will be plenty of food, good music, and nothing but positive vibes and purpose.

Even though the event is free, we want to give back so we are asking guests to bring a toy donation so we can bless unprivileged children in this community.

We are giving back to the same community that we work, sleep, and play in each day. To see people struggling and we know we can help that is our goal.

We need your support and hope you can come out and celebrate the entrepreneurs in our community. Organizers say this is bigger than fashion. It is about community, unity and giving back.

Media: We invite you to come out and cover the event. For more information contact Dejon Parker at 502-676-9707.

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