EGG HARBOR TWP, NJ (May 26, 2011) ­– The long awaited statue of the late IBF World Boxing Champion Leavander Johnson, created by world renowned sculptor and New Jersey native, Brian Hanlon, is now complete and will be unveiled during a ceremony at “Center City Park” in Atlantic City on June 4, 2011. The Park is located on Atlantic Avenue between North Carolina and South Carolina Avenues. The ceremony will begin promptly at 11:00 AM.

The unveiling ceremony is open to the media and general public. Residents of Atlantic City and surrounding communities are encouraged to attend this momentous occasion. You will witness history in the making when the bronze image of an Atlantic City native son and Hero, is immortalized forever in the heart of his hometown where he will be an inspiration and a constant reminder that “You too can achieve your dream”. Come enjoy the festivities and find out about the Leavander Johnson Foundation. We are “Fighting to Make a Difference”.

About Leavander Johnson

Leavander Johnson (12/24/1969 – 9/22/2005) compiled a career record of 34-5-2 with 26 wins by way of knockout. Johnson was born and raised in Atlantic City and trained throughout his childhood and boxing career at the Atlantic City PAL under the watchful eye of his father, who continues to instruct the youths of today. Johnson first became champion by winning the IBO Lightweight title in 1995. After three previous attempts failed, Johnson finally captured the vacant IBF Lightweight title on June 17, 2005 with a 7th round TKO over Stefano Zoff in Milan, Italy. Three months later, on September 17, 2005 in Las Vegas, Johnson unsuccessfully defended his title against Jesus Chavez when the fight was stopped in the 11th round. Johnson later collapsed in the locker room and was rushed to the hospital for emergency surgery to correct a subdural hematoma. Tragically, his condition did not improve and he passed away September 22, 2005 with his family by his side.

About Hanlon Sculpture Studio

Brian Hanlon is a classically trained master sculptor and founder of Hanlon Sculpture Studio, located in Toms River, NJ. In business since 1991, Brian has sculpted over 200 public art pieces, specializing in bronze statues, and is the Official Sculptor for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. His recent completions include a statue of Bob Cousy at Holy Cross, Zan’s Garden of Life at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, a WWII Memorial in Manchester, NJ, and ten life-size figures for St. Mary’s Church in Buffalo, NY. Current projects include Shaquille O’Neal for LSU, Larry Holmes for Easton, PA, Yogi Berra for the Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center, and Dominique Wilkins for Atlanta.

About The Leavander Johnson Foundation

The Leavander Johnson Foundation is non profit 501(c)3 community based empowerment organization. The mission of the Leavander Johnson Foundation is to enable communities to improve the quality and circumstances of life for present and future generations. In meeting these challenges, the Foundation employs flexible approaches and innovative strategies that are responsive to changing needs and new opportunities. The goal is to stimulate long-lasting and sustainable progress in which contributes to community vitality and economic growth.

About the City of Atlantic City

Atlantic City offers something for everyone. From the boardwalk to the bay, our great city has become a world-class destination and a “must see” attraction for millions of visitors annually. From fine dining and entertainment, to a wide array of shopping and, of course, casino excitement…we’re “always turned on”!

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