*Kiki Shepard is more than just the beautiful co-host from “Showtime at the Apollo.” The Texas native showed beauty in awareness as she held her 12th Annual “Celebrity Bowling Challenge for Sickle Cell Awareness” at Pinz in Los Angeles.
Electronic Urban Report/EURweb associate Kiki Ayers hit the red carpet to talk to celebrities and find out what inspired them to participate in the event as well as whether or not they had bowling skills.
The star-studded attendees included Sallie Richardson and husband Dondre Whitfield who serve on the Board of Directors at the K.I.S. Foundation which puts on the event. Also in attendance was actor/comedian Affion Crockett, FOX’s Rosewood star Gabrielle Dennis, Torrei Hart and “Being Mary Jane” star Richard Brooks.
“I had a good friend of mine in college pass away from it while we were in school so I know that it’s a serious situation,” said Crockett.
Richardson explained that Sickle Cell has been in her life for 20 years when she learned her God-daughter had the disease.
Kiki Shepard told our Kiki Ayers how why she started “Celebrity Bowling Challenge for Sickle Cell Awareness” and the K.I.S foundation.
“I discovered that when I was dancing on Broadway,” said Shepard. I had the opportunity to really learn about it and I said this is going to be my platform and my passion.
Now these celebrities can act, but can they bowl?
“No” Crockett admitted. Shanica Knowles, who is an actress and the niece of Shepard said she’s amazing at bowling but only “granny style,” when she rolls the ball between her legs.
“I cannot do the whole spin [thing] but I get strikes nearly every time,” she said. “It doesn’t matter what age you are, Granny style is in.”
Omar Gooding, who stars in “Family Time,” on Bounce TV told us that his teammates pick up where he lacks.
“I brought a couple of cats that know what they doing and my girl is a lot better than me.”
The event had complimentary food, beverages and free arcade games for everyone. To learn more about Sickle Cell and The K.I.S Foundation make sure to visit their website at www.theKISfoundtion.org.
