All Aboard! Campaign Joins Radio One Russ Parr Bus Tour

The National HIV Testing Mobilization Campaign has partnered with Radio One to promote HIV testing during the 2008 Russ Parr Back to School Bus Tour. Deejay Russ Parr’s Radio One Morning Show, one of the nation’s highest-rated radio morning shows, is heard weekdays on more than 23 affiliates nationwide. The bus tour will travel to 11 major cities from July 28–August 12, 2008.

The Campaign is coordinating with local AIDS service organizations to offer rapid HIV testing onsite at each of the tour’s 11 stops, including the Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame, the Indiana State Fairgrounds, and the Richmond International Raceway. More than 5,000 people are expected to attend each event. In addition, Russ Parr will discuss the importance of HIV testing during his live on-air broadcasts during the tour. The Campaign’s "Take Control of Your Health and Your Life. Get Tested for HIV" slogan will appear on the tour bus, t-shirts, water bottles, and hand fans.

"This is an outstanding opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of HIV testing," said Christopher Bates, Acting Director, Office of HIV/AIDS Policy. "Thousands of African Americans faithfully tune in to Russ Parr’s Morning Show every day. We’re excited to partner with Russ and his crew to spread the word that all sexually active Americans should get tested for HIV as part of their routine health care."

A former standup comedian, Russ Parr spent several years on the radio at KDAY in Los Angeles and has appeared in numerous TV commercials and films. An award-winning community leader, he has been recognized by numerous national organizations for his dedication to important issues such as domestic violence, education, fair housing, and AIDS awareness.

The target cities and corresponding dates are: July 28, Washington, DC; August 1, Cleveland, Ohio; August 5, Louisville, Kentucky; August 6, Richmond, Indianapolis, Indiana; and August 12, Richmond, Virginia.