The First Bank Donates $75,000 to Bishop State Community College!

 

From left: The First Banks' Ira Bates, John Erwin, and C. Jerome Brown present a $75,000 donation to Bishop State President Olivier Charles, Bishop State Community College Foundation Chairman Clinton Johnson, Jr., and Dean of Students Dr. Carl Cunningham. 

(MOBILE, Alabama)

May 31, 2024 – The First Bank has donated $75,000 to Bishop State Community

College for scholarships and program support as part of a major giving campaign launched by the bank for historically black colleges and universities across the southeast.

The donation, accepted through the Bishop State Community College Foundation, will create The First Bank Endowed Scholarship, assist Bishop State’s Scholars Bowl program, as well as provide student services and athletics program support. “This significant level of investment will have far-reaching impacts on our students, enhancing their educational opportunities and college experience,” said Bishop State president, Olivier Charles. “We are deeply grateful to The First Bank for recognizing and supporting the contributions that HBCUs make across the nation.”

Bishop State dean of students, Dr. Carl Cunningham, said the donation will provide the Scholars Bowl program the resources it needs to excel. Bishop State hosts high school competitions and has its own team of college students who compete regionally. "Participating in the Scholars Bowl not only enriches academic knowledge and prepares students for future success, but it also fosters critical thinking, teamwork and confidence," said Cunningham.

The donation will also support Bishop State’s athletics programs and student services. Cunningham added that this support will further enrich the student experience and provide diversified opportunities for student engagement.

The new $20,000 endowed scholarship fund “will provide enduring support for our students, ensuring that generations to come can access quality education,” said Clinton Johnson, Jr., chairman of the Bishop State Community College Foundation. “These funds empower students to focus on their academic and personal growth, creating a lasting legacy of opportunity and success.”

As part of the philanthropic campaign, The First Bank awarded $1 million to 12 historically black colleges and universities across Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida. “At The First Bank, we are proud to support higher education institutions like Bishop State Community College who are working diligently to provide equal access to educational opportunities and enrich the unique cultural heritage that forms the fabric of the culture in South Alabama,” said Jerome Brown, chief community officer for The First Bank. “By providing scholarships and enriching athletic programs and student services, more students will have the opportunity to pursue higher education, build financial security and engage with their peers.”

                                                

For more information, contact Courtney Steele, Director of Marketing and Public Relations. (Direct) 251-405-7135  Email: csteele@bishop.edu

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RISE CHATTANOOGA HONORS A DEDICATED JOURNALIST!

Greg Funderburg Honored as he bids Farewell to Chattanooga!

(Chattanooga, TN)--As journalists we move from city to city, assignment to assignment. With that, how many of us can truly say we are "anchored to the communities" we call home? Greg Funderburg, though you're clearly moving on, you've earned this honor and many others in the coming months in spades.

Rise Chattanooga, you not only made a way for the public to bid farewell to this beloved anchorman, but you're taking it a step further by influencing the "NEXT GENERATION" of digital journalists.

For the next three years,  your commitment to giving an aspiring, young journalist a 2-thousand dollar scholarship in Greg Funderburg's name ensures his legacy will linger long after he's left the airwaves in The Scenic City.

Greg, as you set your sites on the "NEXT ASSIGNMENT' in another city,  the entire Tennessee Valley wish you much success on all of your future endeavors.  You will truly be missed.

 

OWN TV: THE FINAL SEASON OF "QUEEN SUGAR" STARTS SEPT. 6TH

 

(New Orleans, LA.) It's an insanely popular drama series capturing the hearts of fans around the world. 

Five years ago we had the good fortune of sitting down exclusively with famed Director Ava DuVernay as she introduced the brand new series.  She told Varion Walton about this great cast made up of newcomers during Essence Music Festival 2017.

Ava predicted the OWN Television series derived from the novel "Queen Sugar" would turn heads, but nothing could have prepared us for what was to come.  

Before we bid farewell to The Bordelons this fall, first, a look back at the interview that started it all. Check out this VISIONVOICEVARION Exclusive!!!

"QUITE THE IMPRESSION!"

REMEMBERING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF SAM GOODEN

(Chattanooga, TN.)---What a privilege living among "musical giants!" One of my early memories of relocating to Chattanooga was all of the interviews, street signs, plaques, and endless accolades connecting The Legendary Impressions to the "Choo Choo City!

Sam Gooden was always proud to share stories of his humble beginnings with his musical partners Fred Cash and Curtis Mayfield. Mr. Gooden reminded music fans young and old how nothing more than sheer grit, determination, and God's Grace helped them travel the globe, performing before "Kings and Presidents!" The same sound that resonated from the bathroom acoustics at Howard High School in Chattanooga in the 50's is the same sound that ultimately led to his induction into the covenant "Rock and Roll Hall of Fame."

He spent a lot of time at The Bessie Smith Cultural Center, an African American art museum that bears many pictures and memoribila of the "golden years." His warm, infectious smile is what I remember most anytime he was visited "The Bessie!" Somehow he took great pleasure in being among Chattanooga's legendary music scene. 

Sam Gooden loved his hometown, and Chattanooga loved him right back. Thanks for the music and the memories, Mr. Gooden, you will truly be missed. #ALifeWellLived

RISING STAR: PRESIDENT AUSTIN JOINS THE CAST OF "HOUSE OF PAYNE!"

 

(ATLANTA, GEORGIA)--The Dream is possible, and Alabama's own Super Hero, Austin Perine, aka President Austin is showing us how "givers gain," with his big break on BET's House of Pain. For more than 3 years Austin has made national headlines for his caring heart and charity work in his native Birmingham and beyond.     

New this week Austin makes his debut on Tyler Perry's hit sitcom "House of Pain," Wednesday, March 30th at 8p CST/9 EST. It's commendable to see hit filmmaker tap into the "Next Generation" of child stars with ties to the state of Alabama.  Set your DVRs, mark you calendar, spread the word, this is going to be awesome for this Birmingham native.

For more information on Austin Perine, visit: https://www.al.com/living/2018/06/president_austin_might_be_cute.html

Get Fit With Greg Family Fun Day--Chattanooga

NEXT LEVEL SUCCESS: After more than a decade on-air, Chattanooga Anchor Man is now known as Television Personality and now Author! Greg Funderburg is taking the phrase "March Madness" to another level as he spends the entire month promoting a healthy lifestyle, and promoting his first children’s book, Jeremiah's New Beginning Book Signing (Chattanooga). PRESS PLAY, and CHECK OUT highlights from The “Get Fit with Greg Family Fun Day” recently in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Get your copy of Jeremiah’s New Beginning on Amazon, Books A Million and www.gregfunderburg.com. (I don’t own the rights of this music). #rocktheriverfront #BookTour #Chattanooga #fitnesschallenge2022

Remembering Actor Chadwick Boseman

42 IS BACK IN THEATERS LABOR DAY WEEKEND: Actor Chadwick Boseman's death shocked moviegoers, and left "Black Panther" fans all over the world heartbroken. Boseman who had been waging a private battle against colon cancer died at the age of 43. The beloved actors' star and popularity transcends the silver screen. In addition to some of his most iconic movies being back in theaters, Varion Walton shows us one of Chadwick's authentic connections to the Tennessee Valley.  She also fills us in on a new "call to action" for self care, plus open and honest dialogue about raising the awareness of this silent killer.

NEW MUSIC: Stokley-Vibrant Ft. Snoop Dogg

VIBING WITH VIBRANT:---It's the perfect summer jam sure to keep you on the dance floor. Grammy nominated singer Stokley teams up with Snoop Dogg with a little diddy that's climbing the charts. The new video, 'Vibrant' premiered on BETher and BET Soul earlier this month.

Directed by Josh Sikkema, the video serves up all the summer fun in the sun and is the perfect anthem for family get-togethers.

The infectious hook-laden 'Vibrant' has already exploded onto radio stations around the country with airplay in top radio markets, further affirming Stokely’s reputation and skills to produce chart-topping hits.

The single was produced by Stokley and written by hitmaking duo Shakespeare! (Justin Beiber, The Internet). After nine weeks on the charts, “Vibrant” is sitting in the “Top 20” on both the Billboard and Mediabase UAC charts and showing no signs of stopping. The highly-spirited track invokes variations of any classic two-step, high energy dance track for any virtual summer setting.

"Vibrant" is Stokley's second single off the forthcoming sophomore album Sankofa out later this year. The single "She" hit #1 after 28 weeks on the charts, and now "Vibrant" is clearly on its way climbing the charts.  

Check out Stokley's other sizzling summer single, "She" (click here) 

CLUB QUARANTINE-"BATTLE OF THE VERZUZS"

ERYKA BADU AND JILL SCOTT-HOME ALONE, TOGETHER

"Battle of The Verzuzs, Feminine Style!"

(Somewhere Over The World Wide Web)---May 9, 2020---In the words of McFadden and Whitehead, "Ain't No Stopping Us Now!" This week two other "mega hitmakers" took that declaration to another level when they infiltrated the internet in a "Battle of the Verzes" in the mist of the coronavirus pandemic.

Grammy winners Erykah Badu and Jill Scott faced-off on Instagram LIVE and everyone, including the "Forever First Lady" Michelle Obama was here for it!

Spike Lee, Janet Jackson, Tamar Braxton, Niece Nash, and Ludacris were among 700-thousands fans who grabbed a cocktail and headed to the VIP conveniently set in their own homes.

"Club Quarantine Battles"were introduced by popular producers  Swiss Beatz and Timbaland.  The concept turned even more heads  when singer/songwriters Baby Face and Teddy Riley squared-off, satisfying for music starved fan seeking live performances during the national quarantine.

Saturday night's "showdown" was the first between two female performers. Jill Scott and Erykah Badu, considered "game changers" in their own right complimented each other, sharing tender tidbits on how, even after several hits about relationships  still struggle with heartbreak and insecurities. 

The industry icons who appeared more like friends than foes were in the LIVE chat room for more than 3 hours, trading hits, reminiscing about being on tour together in the early years.

Both taking a few moments to dispel any rumors of catfights and an on-going feud. "Love your sister, " Love your brother.  Recognize and celebrate each other.  There's room in the inn for everyone," Scott said.

After 48 hours in which the music industry suffered the losses of entertainment mogul Andre Harrell and Rock and Roll architect Little Richard, the entertainment world appeared to be more than ready for the soothing, incense-scented vibe of this 'fiercely feminine' duo.

Good time had by all, including the headliners.

VETERAN BROADCASTER IRENE JOHNSON WARE DIES

REMEMBERING RADIO PIONEER, IRENE J. WARE

(Mobile, AL)--She was the original "total package!" Irene Johnson-Ware was a loving, witty, razor sharp, generous philanthropist who died empty.

When she wasn't setting fashion trends, Mrs. Ware was breaking the "glass ceiling," by becoming the General Manager of WGOK-AM in Mobile, Alabama in 1961.

Photo: Estate of Irene Johnson-Ware

Together, she and her beloved husband, Ronnie Ware changed gospel music scene in The Southeast and beyond. Both recognized by ASCAP, BMI, CBS Records and The Stellar Awards for their work in the industry.

On a personal note, I shall never forget how her infectious spirit opened doors for young, impressionable girls. With her trademark smile and audacity of hope for a better way of life, Mrs. Ware urged city leaders in the aftermath of the civil rights era to provide quality housing for underprivileged children and their families in The Port City.

I will truly miss our quiet times together, especially the moments celebrating Valentine's Day, holidays and birthdays.

Photo Credit: Varion Walton-VisionVoiceVarion

I always loved hearing her stories about all of the Gospel Greats like Aretha Franklin, The Clarke Sisters and many others. 

She will forever be remembered as an influential, Mobile resident "quintessential lady." In her death, she leaves behind a generation of other "fiercely feminine," up and coming media moguls who will always look to her life as a template for success.

After many weeks of declining health that was non-covid related, God Almighty finally called her home to be at rest. Irene Johnson-Ware, a faithful servant who leaves behind a lasting legacy. 

In closing, I thank God for our time together. The moments and memories will forever be implanted in my bereaved heart.    

Photo Credit: Varion Walton-VisionVoiceVarion 

I found an impromptu interview from her home, in 2016 when the City of Mobile came together to honor her life and work. 

Please take a to share in the moment I was so blessed to have with this rare and special woman. Rest in paradise, Mrs. Ware. Your "BRIGHTER DAYS" are now eternal! 

For More Information on the legacy of Mrs. Irene Johnson Ware, visit ALL ACCESS MAGAZINE:  https://www.allaccess.com/net-news/archive/story/195826/veteran-broadcaster-irene-johnson-ware-has-died?fbclid=IwAR2v-is7xni7kExtFzL-F4n68zzUgZ9dGH02bpfUiZKI6zzva-uiXUJEuLE