Cleveland, Ohio. The Funk Not Fight Love Fest Tour, featuring Bootsy Collins and Peppermint Patti, was held at the Maltz Performing Arts Center in Cleveland, Ohio. Bootsy and Peppermint Patti joined Delvis Valentine of WOVU 95.9 FM radio station on stage.
As the Collins greeted Clevelanders, they told the crowd about their mission. “With all of the violence going on in our community impacting our young people and seniors, Bootsy wanted to do something. He said to me, we have a mission, we have a purpose, and we need to use our gifts to help curve the violence that is impacting our communities,” said Peppermint Patti, Boosty’s wife and business partner. Valentine added, “this is one reason why we are here. It’s about Funk, Not Fight!”
Peppermint Patti and Fred WheatPhoto byThe Brown Report Newspaper
The vent featured numerous musical performances from local artists and spoken word creators who have cherished the arts and developed a craft to keep them on the right path. Ron, Maria Fuqua, and Fred Wheat of the Leo’s Casino Collaboratory were honored. Boosty and Patti recognized them for creating a safe space for young people who want to get involved with the arts. “I remember when schools had art, carpentry, mechanics – that is the past. Unfortunately, our young people do not have anything to do. We must collectively come together and help,” stated Fuqua. “We must be as one. This is the only way we can begin to change the direction. Everyone must help. Everyone is needed,” Bootsy said.