A 'WHITE HOT" SUMMER CONCERT SERIES!""

"CHATTANOOGA, SOLD OUT AGAIN!!"

(DOWNTOWN CHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEE)--Tomorrow night, Sunday, August 24th, The Velvet Chair Experience returns with another unforgettable evening of live music, storytelling, and soul. While this weekend’s show is completely sold out, the celebration continues all summer long.

Up next: our much-anticipated "ALL WHITE PARTY," where featured vocalist Karen Collins and Friends promise a white hot performance that you don’t want to miss.

I’m honored to serve as your host and emcee, and I invite you to join us for the next regular performance on Sunday, September 28th. Secure your seat now and be part of the magic that keeps Chattanooga talking.

Check out The Velvet Chair Experience website for more information on how you can RSVP for a table for you and your friends for the next performance, Sunday, September 28th. https://thevelvetchairexperience.com

NATIONAL RADIO DAY--HONORING THE MEMORY OF GINA BROWN

NATIONAL RADIO DAY

August 20, 2025

(New Orleans, Louisiana)--This week, I pause to remember my best friend, the late Gina Brown, a true queen of the airwaves.

A proud New Orleans native, Gina had a gift with a microphone that could move souls. She began her journey more than 30 years ago as the smooth Sunday Jazz Brunch host at Ninety-Three Blx in Mobile. And in her final days, she poured her heart into the mic at 102.3 WHIV FM New Orleans, where the mantra is “We honor independent voices.” Gina did just that, leaving her soul in the control room and in the hearts of listeners across the Crescent City.

Her beloved segment, “G’s Corner,” and her golden voice are deeply missed. On this day, we celebrate not just National Radio Day but the legacy of one of the greatest disc jockeys to ever do it, my dear friend, the late, great Gina Brown.

Miss you, babygirl, Varion

“When Legends Align: A Forgotten Interview, a Forever Memory”

 Remembering Singer/Songwriter Betty Wright 

(New Orleans, Louisiana)--Have you ever had a project you never quite found the time to finish?

Recently, I unearthed a true gem, an exclusive interview I did with the legendary R&B singer, Betty Wright. I always remembered it, not just because of the interview itself, but because my best friend, Gina Brown, was the concert promoter, and Gina was also the opening act that night, October 5, 2018, in New Orleans.

  

     (Photo Credit: Gus Bennett, New Orleans "The People Project!")

Who could’ve imagined that nearly seven years later, both Gina and Betty would no longer be with us?

Gina was more than a friend; she was family. And Betty Wright? She was Gina's early influence and musical hero. To see Gina shine that night alongside her icon was unforgettable. It’s been emotional revisiting this footage, but also comforting, like hearing their voices echo through time.

As I finally pieced this story together, I was also reminded of how many lives Betty touched, mentoring major artists, uplifting her daughters, and leaving a mark far beyond the stage.

So here’s the takeaway: don’t wait!  Finish the projects you’ve been putting off. You might just uncover a treasure worth sharing with the world.

"VERY VARION"- COMMAND ANCHOR IN DEMAND!

(MOBILE, ALABAMA)----"Sometimes, you have to extend a little grace to yourself. 💫 After 25+ years in TV news, I’ve found myself disheartened by where the industry is headed. Watching this old clip reminded me of the passion and purpose I once poured into every newscast. Was it all for nothing? I don’t think so. These memories remind me why I started—and why we must believe in a better, more purposeful future for journalism. Here’s to the comeback of the glory days. 🙏📺 

ACTOR MALCOM-JAMAL WARNER --GONE TOO SOON!

 MALCOM-JAMAL WARNER  1970-2025

(COSTA RICA, CENTRAL AMERICA)

"Clearly, we thought we had more time!"

The world is in a collective shock today with the heartbreaking news of Malcolm-Jamal Warner's unexpected passing at just 54 years old.  For many of us, Malcom will forever be remembered as the beloved "Theo Huxtable," the quick-witted, warm-hearted son from The Cosby Show who helped redefine the image of the Black Family life on television 

But Malcolm was so much more than a former child star. He was a seasoned actor, a thoughtful director, a gifted musician, and a powerful spoken-word artist. In recent years, he was coming into his own in deeply moving roles that showed the full scope of his talent, roles that proved his range, depth, and staying power in a tough industry. Did you know he won a Grammy?

This news comes as both a surprise and a sorrow. Malcolm had so much more to give, and we all felt there was still more to come. He was a quiet force, a true artist, and a steady presence in our cultural landscape.

Rest in peace, Sweet Prince. Your work here is done, and what a lasting legacy you leave behind.

Honoring a Living Legend: Mrs. Valena McCants

(Mobile, Alabama)--It brings me so much joy to celebrate a true trailblazer in education and guidance, Mrs. Valenia McCants. Long before the title “life coach” became a trend, she was one, pouring into students with wisdom, grace, and purpose at C.F. Vigor High School in the City of Prichard, Alabama.

Mrs. McCants is 100 years old and God has blessed her with a remarkable life and legacy. Her influence runs deep, touching not only my life but also reaching across three generations of my family. That kind of impact is rare, and it speaks volumes about her dedication, brilliance, and heart.

Mrs. Valena McCants 

I'm thrilled to see her celebrated in Our Southern Souls magazine. I encourage all my Vigor High classmates and fellow educators across Mobile to take a moment and read HERstory—a story of strength, compassion, and fierce femininity.

👉🏽 Read and be inspired: www.oursouthernsouls.com

Thank you, Mrs. McCants, for lighting the way for so many of us. 

BEHIND THE MASK EMPOWERMENT CONFERENCE COMING MARCH 2026

THE WAIT IS OVER!!

REGISTER TODAY: "BEHIND THE MASK," March 2026! 

(Augusta, GA.)—Hey, you! Yes, you! Let me ask you something: When was the last time you truly felt seen? Heard? Empowered to live boldly and authentically?

If you’re ready to let go of the masks and step into the woman God created you to be, then you can’t miss the Behind the Mask Conference 2026!

This is more than just a conference—it’s a movement. We’ve got three powerful worship services that will stir your soul, multiple relevant breakout sessions that will speak directly to your heart, and an atmosphere of sisterhood like no other.

It all goes down March 6th and 7th in North Augusta, South Carolina, at the Crown Kingdom Cultural Center. And guess what? Your $99 registration includes your conference T-shirt and much more!

So don’t wait. Don’t overthink it. Click the link, register, and join us for a weekend that will transform your life. Because behind the mask is where the real YOU begins. I can’t wait to see you there!

"Don't forget to tell a friend to tell a friend!"

[Behind the Mask Conference 2026 | March 6-7, 2026 | North Augusta, SC | $99 Registration | 

Follow us @BehindTheMaskConference

VERY VARION: "BIRTHDAY LOVE IN ATLANTA" JULY 7TH

                            

         

                                     

"FEELING THE LOVE" 07/07

(ATLANTA, GA)-- How do you say "thank you" to the hundreds of well wishes on your birthday? 

It would literally take hours, but I truly appreciate everyone's help, generosity, and well wishes! 

I'm sending out a special note of gratitude to my family, my mother, Carolyn Walton, and long-time friends like Deitra Tate-McKenzie. "Dee, you never miss a beat!" Rudy Williams, the flowers were wonderful, thank you! 

To my BFF Ced Mc and his beautiful wife, Simply LaChish. What a weekend, and a time was had. With everything you two have going on with the kids, you hosted and planned an amazing weekend that included "sequins, candle making, PJs in shades of red!" It was a whole vibe that included many of Varion's "favorite things, highlighted, uniquely, and creatively displayed!" 

Nicole Brown, thank you for laying your "cape" aside this weekend, Super Woman!! You're an integral part of my life in Chattanooga. 

Karleen Leveille, without hesitation, you hopped on an airplane from New York to celebrate your girl! Thank you so much. 

To my fellow Cancer, Gregory L. Funderburg Jr., for more than a decade, we "July babies" have been together through the highs and lows. Thank you, G, for fighting your way to Atlanta. To my "ya yahs" in Mobile and New Orleans, let's keep the party rolling throughout July. 

To John Johnson, your unconditional love and support mean the world to me as well. 

Embracing another trip around the sun is truly a "gift from God." I treasure all the love and joy I have received so far. Love on folks who mean something to you, family. It's imperative, especially with all the noise out there today. 

Thank you all. I'm so grateful to see another year.

                                                                        ### 30 ####

REAL HOUSEWIVES OF ATLANTA REUNION STARTS JULY 13TH

 

ATLANTA HOUSEWIVES REUNION: Season 16 of Real Housewives of Atlanta produced more than a few 'new peach holders,' but none outshone "50 Cent" aka Cynthia Bailey.  Here's to the "Ol Gees" who will save the day every time. Tune in to the three-part Real Housewives of Atlanta reunion on July 13th. #RealityTV #PipingHotTea #RHOASeason16  #VisionVoiceVarion 

"Summer's Sizzling with Jamal Roberts!" 

(June 5, 2025)--Pensacola, Montgomery, Mobile, and surrounding areas.  For the first time in 20 years, you can enjoy an American Idol Winner right in your backyard.  Spread the word, and tell a friend about this event you shouldn't miss. 

A LIFE WELL LIVED!

HONORING THE MEMORY OF ALEXIS HERMAN

(Washington, D.C.)---She was "feminine, fearless, and proud to tell anyone was a Mobilian.  Alexis Herman, former U.S. Labor Secretary made me and so many girls growing up along the Gulf Coast believe "anything is possible if you work hard!"

Alexis Herman dedicated her life to public service, championing equality and justice for all.

Her quiet, southern demeanor was instrumental in settling some of the biggest labor disputes during her tenure.  

My siblings and I was always in awe of your brilliance and dedication to all the dreamers who came behind you.

Take your rest Madam Secretary, your work here is done.  Thank you for your service to the nation.

NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS--HABITAT FOR HUMANITY GREATER CHATTANOOGA

 RENT'S TOO HIGH!!!

(Chattanooga, TN.)--What a tremendous campaign to witness, a community coming together, lending a hand to one of their own. Laquanta Washington is a Chattanooga mother and LPN. 

Laquantra Washington-Recipient 

Over the last year her rent has gone from $850 to $1,500 plus a month. A story all too familiar as more working-class families are finding themselves struggling to make ends meet. Help is on the way!!!  

Habitat for Humanity Greater Chattanooga just raised more than $140 thousand dollars towards a new, safe place to call home for Laquanta and her children. 

Nicole Brown-Event Emcee

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga Area, Inc. doing great work! Thanks for the invitation, Nicole Brown. Witnessing you in action, and seeing that advocacy still matters truly made by day!! 

HAMILTON THE MUSICAL IN CHATTANOOGA

 BROADWAY MUSICAL 

(Chattanooga, TN.) --HAMILTON THE MUSICAL--It's both intense and exhilarating!  The smash-hit Broadway musical is making its round in the Scenic City.  This week Lin-Manuel Miranda's hip-hop biography of Alexander Hamilton is selling gout to the delight of music lovers along the Tennessee Valley.

Thank goodness for incredible friend and donor who insisted I take a minute to selfishly immerse myself into this beautifully crafted American Musical.  If you haven't done this for yourself yet please do so, you won't be disappointed.  I'm so grateful for friends who don't play about me and vise versa.

HerSTORY: CELEBRATING WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH

CHATTANOOGA'S FEMALE FIREFIGHTERS HONORED 

(Chattanooga, TN.)  They're fearless, feisty, and female firefighters.  Chi Memorial Hospital and The Chattanooga Fire Department teamed up to honor the pioneers and gatekeepers with CFD during Women's History Month.

"Flames of Courage" included an intimate chat about the struggles and challenges of being a black female firefighter in the Tennessee Valley.

This week's event was moderated by Chattanooga City Council Woman Raquetta Dotley. 

The City of Chattanooga and Chi-Memorial told the standing room only crowd they are committed to producing more events honoring and recognizing and raising the visibility of the fearless public servants.

Reception Hosted by Chi Memorial Hospital and 
The Chattanooga Fire Department

The reception was standing room only. Hosted by
The Common House supporters for to hear about 
the struggles and challenges of these "gender 
benders first hand. Many people attending were
surprised to hear how many of the women were
discouraged from even trying out to become a 
firefighter because they are also single mothers.

Pictured: Varion Walton, Nicole Brown, Captain Jenny
Funk,  FFS Glenda Wilson, and Retired Fire 
Captain Benita Owens

hashtagA huge thank you to Chi-Memorial Hospital, Nicole Brown, Chattanooga City Council and the CFD for profiling the stories of these extraordinary pioneers and trailblazers who are ready to 'influence the NEXT GENERATION" public servants.

LEDISI RELEASES NEW ALBUM-"THE CROWN!"

MEGA STAR LEDISI RELEASES NEW ALBUM: (Los Angeles, CA – March 19, 2025) – Grammy Award-winning artist Ledisi is set to reign supreme with the release of her highly anticipated 12th studio album, The Crown, arriving April 25 via Listen Back Entertainment/BMG.

The Crown features the chart-rising lead single, "Love You Too", a soulful and infectious track that’s quickly becoming a fan favorite. The album also includes the powerful anthem "BLKWMN" which has received widespread praise following Ledisi’s breathtaking performance of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" at Super Bowl LIX.

Ledisi states, “With every album I sing LIFE and write songs geared towards the human experience.” She goes on to say, “The Crown is a metaphor for being in the spotlight and being of service to others. I hope people feel no matter how heavy or challenging life is we always choose to wear our crowns with grace and confidence. Always choosing love and the truth.”

In addition to the new album, Ledisi is gearing up to hit the road for her highly anticipated "Love You Too Tour," which will kick off May 28 in Baltimore, MD. Special guest Marsha Ambrosius will join on select dates. The tour will also make stops in New York, DC, Chicago, St. Louis, Cleveland, Toronto, and more.

With her unmatched vocals, undeniable stage presence, and a growing collection of powerful anthems, Ledisi is poised to make 2025 a year to remember.

For tour dates, album details, and ticket information, visit www.ledisi.com.

LOVE YOU TOO TOUR – DATES

(* = Marsha Ambrosius will not appear)

DATE CITY VENUE

May 28, 2025 Baltimore, MD Lyric Baltimore
May 30, 2025 Washington, D.C. The Theater at MGM National Harbor
May 31, 2025 Washington, D.C. The Theater at MGM National Harbor
June 1, 2025 Newark, NJ New Jersey Performing Arts Center
June 3, 2025 Virginia Beach, VA The Dome
June 4, 2025 Wilmington, NC Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College
June 6, 2025 Atlantic City, NJ Circus Maximus Theater at Caesars Atlantic City
June 7, 2025 Durham, NC Durham Performing Arts Center
June 8, 2025 Columbia, SC Township Auditorium
June 10, 2025 Louisville, KY The Louisville Palace
June 12, 2025 Chicago, IL The Chicago Theatre
June 13, 2025 Milwaukee, WI Riverside Theater
June 14, 2025 Detroit, MI* Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre (w/ Rahsaan Patterson)
June 16, 2025 Toronto, ON Massey Hall
June 17, 2025 Cleveland, OH House of Blues
June 19, 2025 St. Louis, MO Stifel Theatre
June 20, 2025 Florence, KY Turfway Park Event Center
June 21, 2025 Memphis, TN Orpheum Theatre
June 22, 2025 Huntsville, AL Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
June 24, 2025 Charlotte, NC Ovens Auditorium
June 25, 2025 Greenville, SC Peace Center - Concert Hall
June 27, 2025 Jacksonville, FL Florida Theatre
June 28, 2025 Stockbridge, GA* Stockbridge Amphitheater (w/ Kindred the Family Soul)
June 29, 2025 Savannah, GA Johnny Mercer Theatre

"VisionVoiceVarion" thanks "Strong Arm Media's" Tasha Stout for the information in this press release.