This Week in The SMG Report

This Week in The SMG Report

by | Nov 19, 2020 | Featured News

2020 BLACK MUSIC HONORS TO CELEBRATE LEGENDARY MUSIC ICONS

Chicago-based television production company Central City Productions will present the 2020 Black Music Honors in national broadcast syndication November 21 thru December 13, 2020. Television and radio personality Rickey Smiley returns as host of the star-studded two-hour special which will honor artists and musicians who have influenced and made significant contributions to American music. 
The honorees for this year’s Black Music Honors include Grammy® Award-nominated R&B legends Rhona Bennett, Terry Ellis, and Cindy Herron of En Vogue, recognized as one of the top 5 highest selling American female music groups in history, who will receive the Urban Music Icon Award for their three decades in the industry. Grammy® Award-winner, actress and Broadway star Deborah Cox will receive the Entertainer Icon Award. Multiple Stellar Awards and Grammy® Award-winner and producer Fred Hammond will receive the Gospel Music Icon Award. The National Museum of African American Music will be honored with the Legacy Award.

“I am extremely excited about our 5th Annual 2020 Black Music Honors television special and our legendary awardees. Even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important for us to stay committed to producing The Black Music Honors as a means of celebrating music icons who are often overlooked in receiving their much-deserved recognition.”

Founder and Executive Producer Don Jackson

Performers of the evening include Musiq Soulchild, Raheem DeVaughn, Tweet, MAJOR., June’s Diary, Brian Courtney Wilson, D Smoke, Evvie McKinney, Marvin Sapp, RL, and Sheléa. The show is set to air on Saturday, November 21 at 12PM (EST) on Bounce TV. State Farm returns as the show’s title sponsor. Other sponsors include AT&T, Walmart, Johnson & Johnson and Bounty. For more information on Black Music Honors, please visit www.blackmusichonors.com and connect on social media @blackmusichonors.

R&C The Fragrance Duo By Russell Wilson & Ciara

Russell Wilson and Ciara are sharing their passion for fragrance by introducing R&C The Fragrance Duo, marking their first creation of an eau de parfum together, inspiring a belief that togetherness is the key to happiness. The Grammy Award-Winning Singer Songwriter and NFL Seattle Seahawk Quarterback and Superbowl Champion, have created a unique pairing of scents stored within two entwined magnetic glass bottles, symbolizing a true connection.  Starting November 17th, 2020, The Fragrance Duo is available exclusively at RandCFragrance.com for $90 (50 ml each).  A portion of all proceeds will benefit Ciara and Russell’s Why Not You Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to education, children’s health and fighting poverty.

“To do life together is the greatest gift, and to be able to create our first fragrance together was a dream come true. We are special on our own, but there is nothing more powerful and more magnetic than when we are together and that is reflected in the entire package from the bottle design to the blends inside. Being able to also give back was especially important to both of us – and doing so through our Why Not You Foundation was an essential piece that adds to the meaning of launching the fragrance.” 

Ciara & Russell Wilson

A unique design is a feat in the fragrance world and this first-of-its-kind packaging perfectly captures the sensual, modern essence of the fragrances it holds. More than just a perfume bottle, the Duo’s timeless and organically shaped aesthetic reflects the concept and connection of the scents themselves. The innovative interlocking magnetic system connects the two bottles, creating a sculptural piece of art that looks as beautiful on your vanity as it does on your mantle.  Combining beauty with functionality, the weighted and etched chrome glass bottles have a mirrored finish that reflect the refined craftsmanship and artistry of the overall experience.  A perfect complement to both blends, it was important for Russell and Ciara to create an iconic statement that was as beautiful and luxurious as the fragrance inside.  The Fragrance Duo engages all the senses. The Fragrance Duo was developed by Russell and Ciara with Perfumers Catherine Selig and Linda Chinery from Takasago.  

Russell’s scent is effortlessly sexy with an iconic, refined freshness and is described as a Woody Aromatic.  The immediate appeal of invigorating bergamot and black tea blend with smooth notes of ambroxan to expose an addictive contrast on the skin that is hard to resist. As it blends in perfect harmony with its aromatic heart, notes of lavender combine with juicy pear blossom and waterlily conveying strength and dynamic energy.  A smooth blend of patchouli, musk and vetiver drive the scent, asserting an unmistakably sensual finish.

Top : Bergamot, Ambroxan, Black Tea

Middle : Lavender, Pear Blossom, Waterlily

Base : Patchouli, Musk, Vetiver

Ciara’s blend is a sensual, evocative Oriental Floral fragrance that captures a woman’s feminine complexity with a contrast of classic with a modern twist.  The scent opens with mouth-watering, juicy red berries, delicate freesia and an unmistakable freshness of pink peppercorn, which captivate the senses.  In the heart, a blooming bouquet of white flowers and delicate peony evokes a fresh classic, yet modern, fresh femininity. As the fragrance warms the skin, smooth musk and sandalwood blend into addictive notes of vanilla for an irresistible signature that lasts. 

Top : Red Berries, Freesia, Pink Peppercorn

Middle : Jasmine, Peony, Gardenia

Base : Musk, Sandalwood, Vanilla 

Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie and Minnie’s Food Pantry Join Forces to Provide Holiday Meals for the Rising Number of North Texas Families in Need

Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the first woman elected to this position in the denomination’s 233-year history, and presiding prelate of more than 200 churches in Texas, has joined forces with Minnie’s Food Pantry, to feed the growing number of North Texas families facing food insecurity. Bishop McKenzie will host a virtual edition of her annual leadership conference, SELAH: The Main Event, on November 20-21, 2020. The event is open to the public and forty percent of registration will go to Minnie’s Food Pantry. Attendees can register at bit.ly/SelahMainEvent.

“There are thousands of families impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of them have food security issues for the first time in their lives. We felt compelled to support Chery Jackson and Minnie’s Food Pantry to help her help hurting families. We invite our Selah women and the Dallas Metroplex to join us.”

Bishop Vashti McKenzie

Named one of the top eleven conferences for women who want to level up by Essence Magazine, Selah is a place for leaders to reset, refresh, and recalibrate. This year’s line-up includes power-packed speakers and performers, including Grammy-award winning recording artist, Marvin Sapp;  author, Minda Harts; master entrepreneur, Gloria Mayfield Banks; author, Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams-Bryant, preacher and author, including her newest book, “Together: A Biblical Meditation and Guide to Enrich Covenant Marriage”; Nicole Fortune, National Manager, Customer Relations Toyota Lexus Financial; Rev. Dr. Danielle Brown, pastor of church life at Cathedral International; Nicole Roberts Jones, nationally recognized transformational speaker and bankroll your brilliance expert; and Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie.

“From March until June of 2020, more than 1.9 billion meals were distributed nationwide to people facing hunger. Minnie’s Food Pantry has distributed 3 million meals since March and food pantries are giving out 60 percent more food than an average month. The need is greater than ever and generosity of neighbors all across the country is a necessity to keep up with this demand.”

Cheryl Jackson, CEO and founder of Minnie’s Food Pantry

The Clark Sisters Perform New Single, “His Love” on “Faith Friday” on GMA3: What You Need to Know

The 3x Grammy Award winning gospel group, The Clark Sisters sat down with GMA3: What You Need to Know last week for “Faith Friday” to discuss their new album, The Return, and perform their new single, “His Love”. In the interview, the sisters discuss their hiatus since their last album 10 years ago, and also include the importance of spreading “His Love” as we approach the holiday season.

The Return is currently available for download on all streaming platforms.

MARVEL’S SPIDER-MAN: MILES MORALES ORIGINAL VIDEO GAMESOUNDTRACK AVAILABLE TODAY

Marvel Music announces the digital release of Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales Original Video Game Soundtrack, featuring a score by Emmy®-nominated composer John Paesano (“Penny Dreadful: City of Angels,” “Maze Runner” trilogy), and 3 new original songs: “Where We Come From” and “This is My Time” both by Lecrae, plus “I’m Ready” by Jaden Smith. Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales is developed by Insomniac Games and launches for the PlayStation®5 (PS5™) and PlayStation®4 (PS4™) systems on Nov. 12.

Paesano recorded the score at Ocean Way Studios (Nashville, Tennessee) and AIR Studios (London, United Kingdom), with production and remixing by Grammy®-winning producer Boi-1da (Drake, Eminem, Rihanna).  The album features 16 score tracks, plus three new original songs. The songs “Where We Come From” and “This is My Time” are both by Grammy-winning Reach Records artist Lecrae (Moore). Both tracks were co-written by Moore and Matthew Samuels (Boi1-da). The acclaimed artist recently released Restoration, his 7th studio album, and Columbia Records debut.

 “I’m Ready” is performed by Jaden Smith and was written by Smith, Omarr Rambert, and Josiah Bell. Smith recently released his third studio album, CTV3: Cool Tape Vol. 3, which features “Cabin Fever” and “Falling For You (with Justin Bieber).

Lecrae Releases Restoration: The Deluxe Album featuring 6 New Songs!

On Friday, November 13th, LECRAE will release a deluxe edition of his Restoration album featuring 6 brand new additional songs. Most of the artists featured on Restoration: The Deluxe Album are all signed to Reach Records including Andy Mineo, Hulvey, Wande, WHATUPRG, and 1K Phew. Ty Brasel and Rapsody are also featured on the deluxe edition.

Below are the additional songs on Restoration: The Deluxe Album:

  • “Come Thru Jesus”
  • “10 Toes”
  • “Rich and Famous” (feat. WHATUPRG, Ty Brasel)
  • “Deep End Remix” (feat. Rapsody)
  • “I Am Restored Remix” (feat. Hulvey, Wande, 1K Phew)
  • “Celebrate More (feat. Andy Mineo, Hulvey)

The original Restoration album released on Reach Records featured artists across all genres including John Legend, Kirk Franklin, YK Osiris, Jozzy, Dani Leigh, Marc E. Bassy, BJ The Chicago Kid and more. Lecrae has released 6 singles and videos from Restoration so far.

Gospel Artists Make Joyful Noise After Bout with Coronavirus

Gospel recording artist Shontelle Norman-Beatty is blessed with phenomenal talent. The new DARE Records artist shows off her vocals on her first single, a contemporary spin on the classic “Jesus Will Fix It (Trouble in My Way),” available on digital and streaming platforms including Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora, and Tidal on Friday, November 20, 2020 (to listen to the single, click here). Released during the country’s unprecedented coronavirus pandemic, Shontelle Norman-Beatty has also survived her bout with the devastating COVID-19 virus.

Though she had no temperature or fatigue, Shontelle got tested that afternoon. She recalls, “The doctor said, ‘Well, Mrs. Norman-Beatty, you’re positive.’ And I said, ‘Okay.’ He said, ‘Do you have any questions for me? Because there’s no cure for this.  All we can do is send you home, and all we can do is tell you that if it gets worse, go to the hospital. That’s it.’ I was shocked … When I went to bed on Sunday night, I felt fine. But on that Monday morning, when I woke up, I couldn’t move. I was hurting from my neck to my feet.” Shontelle says she spent the next five days quarantined in a bedroom, battling debilitating fatigue. Complicating her situation was that her husband, a pastor, and one of her sons also began to experience symptoms. She believes her recovery is due to forcing herself to get up from her bed and walk outside, taking vitamins, and heeding a friend’s advice to drink not only tea but hot toddies to sweat out the virus. And, of course, prayer. “I’m thankful that my experience was what it was, and it wasn’t detrimental, and my husband is not planning a funeral,” says Shontelle with signature humor. “I’m thanking God for that. This whole experience, for my husband and myself, has been eye-opening. Everybody needs to be proactive versus reactive. What I mean by that is, go ahead and start taking the vitamins, eating healthy, and getting exercise before you get it.”

Jarrrell Smalls was diagnosed with the Coronavirus and after coming through, he’s back with a message, “We Need Your Power” You’ve heard the song put to viral videos of Muslim men doing a traditional dance, but Smalls makes it clear who he’s talking about in his own concept video for the song. Smalls told his story to The Post And Courier and has confessed that his new ministry is to tell others about the severity of the Coronavirus. Smalls and his group made a splash with the infectious “Prayer Room” that has taken over every stage the groups has ever performed it on. We’re glad Jarrell Smalls is doing better and even more excited about new music coming from the rising quartet gospel star.

Meet Venus Opal Reese, the Hot Mess Millionaire

The pilot of Dr. Venus Opal Reese’s docuseries, Hot Mess Millionaire, has accumulated over two million streams and counting in less than six months with tons of five-star reviews on Amazon Prime. However, when Dr. Venus submitted the entire series to Amazon, it was turned down.

The Hot Mess Millionaire series is based on the life of Dr. Venus Opal Reese. She reveals the “raw and uncut” reality of what it truly takes to be “self-made” – from being homeless on the “mean streets” of Baltimore, MD, to graduating from Stanford University with a Ph.D., to becoming a Black woman millionaire.

A mansion. Luxury cars. World travel. Multimillion-dollar home-based business. Happy marriage. Bestselling author. Dr. Venus had made it “out” and was living the American Dream. But when the trauma from living on the streets finally caught up with her, the Cinderella life she had created became a soul-crushing nightmare.

The pain of being rejected by Amazon

“I was devastated,” says Dr. Venus. “For all their talk about making room at the table for women and people of color, it appears those seats are reserved for superstars, not up and coming writers/producers. Make no mistake: I’m extremely grateful they streamed my pilot. They didn’t have to.”

She continues, “It has exposed me to people who would never have known of my work. I had awesome reviews and there was a hunger for a Black woman speaking truth on their platform. I was so certain they would want the rest of the series since they had greenlit the pilot.”

But when Amazon said no, Dr. Venus said yes!

Instead of giving up, Dr. Venus has decided to self-produce the series on her YouTube channel and share it with her tribe on social media. She comments, “We as Black women often can’t wait for a seat at the table. Most times, we must build our own table.”

The eight-episode series began airing on Thursday, Oct 22, 2020, at 4pm PST on YouTube. For exclusive access, “1st Look Screening” of each episode and business Q&A with Dr. Venus, be sure to join the Hot Mess Millionaire Facebook Community.

“I’m committed to empowering Black Women to have our own, so we don’t have to wait to be chosen,” Dr. Venus says.

Grammy-Award Winning Musician, Ne-Yo, Legendary Announcer, Michael Buffer and More A-List Talent Round Out Program for Mike Tyson’s Return to the Ring Against Roy Jones Jr. on November 28th

Viral entertainment platform, Triller announced today that Grammy-Award winning singer songwriter, actor, producer Ne-Yo will be performing the National Anthem before Mike Tyson and Roy Jones Jr. enter the ring at next week’s highly anticipated event. Michael Buffer, who’s distinct announcing style has deemed him a cultural icon, is confirmed to announce the main event of Tyson vs. Jones, and UFC Middleweight Champion, Israel Adesanya will commentate the fight alongside Boxing Hall of Famer and Olympic Champion, Sugar Ray Leonard and sportscaster, Al Bernstein. Jim Gray is slated to host the pre- and post-fight interviews, while Barrie Eget will announce the undercard fights and sports anchor, Ernesto Amador will serve as the primary Spanish commentator. The fight can be ordered on Pay-Per-View through cable and satellite providers and is also available on PPV streaming at www.tysonontriller.com. The event is $49.99.

“Opening for a fight of this magnitude is an honor and I can’t wait to witness one of the most noteworthy nights of the decade. I may be performing, but I am a fan at the end of the day and I look forward to witnessing this once in a lifetime lineup,” says Ne-Yo.

Famed ring announcer, Michael Buffer has signed on to announce the historic return of Mike Tyson and Roy Jones Jr. Known for his iconic voice and announcing style, the sports world will welcome Buffer back to the ring as he announces another renowned event. During his illustrious career, Buffer has lent his voice to MC some of the biggest sporting events of his lifetime including the MLB World Series, the Stanley World Cup Finals, and the NBA Finals. 

Commentating the unforgettable program is a unique lineup of industry megastars whose event narration will only add another layer of notoriety to the night. Undefeated UFC Middleweight Champion and one of MMA’s Pound-for-Pound Best, Israel “The Last Stylebender” Adesanya will join Boxing Hall of Famer and Olympic Champion, Sugar Ray Leonard as they commentate alongside legendary boxing play-by-play analyst, Al Bernstein.

“It’s surreal that I’m actually given the opportunity to witness these two LIVING LEGENDS compete ringside! I grew up watching these two boxing icons in the ring and am honored to be on the sidelines commentating on one of the greatest comeback fights of all time,” said Israel Adesanya.

“I’ve never seen a night with so many iconic names on the program. This matchup is something I thought I’d only see in my dreams, but here we are,” says Sugar Ray Leonard.

Hosted by Mario Lopez, the highly-anticipated return of Mike Tyson and Roy Jones Jr. headlines the four-hour live event that will air globally on November 28th at 8pm ET, with the three-hour main card beginning at 9:00pm ET on Pay-Per-View through cable and satellite providers and PPV streaming onwww.TysonOnTriller.com.

The PPV fight card includes Tyson vs. Jones Jr., Jake Paul vs. Nate Robinson, Badou Jack vs. Blake McKernan, and Viddal Riley vs. Rashad Coulter. The memorable night will also include multi-song performances by DaBaby, Lil Wayne, French Montana, Wiz Khalifa, and YG.

It is the first live sporting event produced under Mike Tyson’s Legends Only League, a next-generation sports venture that gives audiences the opportunity to see their favorite sports legends in action. Producers include: Mike Tyson, Sophie Watts, Johnny Ryan Jr., Azim Spicer, Kiki Tyson, Jimmy Burchfield Jr., Ryan Kavanaugh, Bobby Sarnevesht and Nakisa Bidarian.

Pepsi and iHeartRadio Unite Four Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Marching Bands for One Epic Virtual Showcase

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HB305e6fpcA&feature=emb_logo

This year’s HBCU homecoming season was unlike anything ever before, but students, faculty and alumni still came together to celebrate virtually across the country. To honor the spirit and camaraderie of the HBCU community, Pepsi, in partnership with “HBCU Homecoming Celebration on iHeartRadio,” is bringing together the exceptional marching bands from Florida A&M, Hampton University, Prairie View A&M and North Carolina A&T – some of whom are traditionally rivals – to create a unified virtual musical event.  “iHeartRadio Presents The Pepsi HBCU Marching Band Experience” is voiced by award-winning entertainer, philanthropist, entrepreneur and current HBCU student Megan Thee Stallion, and media mogul and cultural architect Charlamagne tha God, and serves as a reminder of the longstanding fall traditions among HBCUs, which typically bring communities around the country together for an unmatched celebration at the intersection of culture, community, music and football.

Pepsi – a brand with a rich history in music, sports and entertainment – worked collaboratively with iHeartMedia and the four HBCU band directors and their marching bands to curate a first-of-its-kind, tour-de-force virtual performance featuring a cross-generational arrangement of the Curtis Mayfield classic “Move on Up” and Megan Thee Stallion’s chart-topping hit “Savage.”

“It is such an honor to be part of bringing the spirit and energy of HBCU homecoming performances to life for the students and alumni that won’t be able to see it in person this year,” said Megan Thee Stallion. “HBCUs foster an incredible musical culture – one that helped me develop my career – so to be a part of ‘iHeartRadio Presents The Pepsi HBCU Marching Band Experience’ and champion that love for music with these bands is truly special.“

The virtual experience celebrates a month-long “HBCU Homecoming Celebration on iHeartRadio,” which kicked off October 19, as a series of inspiring events designed to shine a light on HBCU pride, Black excellence and student achievement through uplifting, high-energy celebrations across multiple iHeartRadio platforms. The “iHeartRadio Presents The Pepsi HBCU Marching Band Experience” is available on Pepsi.com/HBCUexperience and the Pepsi brand’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

“The impact of 2020 has upended a number of events and traditions across the country, including one of the most cherished and anticipated events within the HBCU community – homecoming. We wanted to create something special that gave these marching bands the opportunity to perform for the students, faculty, alumni, friends and families that are not able to celebrate homecoming in person this year.  This virtual performance is a unifying celebration of HBCUs and a chance to show our love, appreciation and support for these incredible music programs that, year after year, bring so much joy to so many around the country.”

Todd Kaplan, Vice President, Marketing, Pepsi

The “iHeartRadio Presents The Pepsi HBCU Marching Band Experience” is part of the Pepsi brand’s ongoing effort to amplify and spotlight Black voices and Black excellence. Pepsi is also committing resources to support HBCU music programs – including refurbished equipment, scholarships, grants and more – to ensure a continuation of the traditions and opportunities are presented to current and future students at HBCUs. This commitment is only one part of PepsiCo’s larger action plan in expanding recruitment efforts with HBCUs and increasing the brand’s partnerships with diverse organizations at these prestigious institutions.

Greenwood closes $3 million seed round to build online banking solution for Blacks and Latinx

Michael “Killer Mike” Render, Ambassador Andrew J. Young and Ryan Glover are founders of Greenwood, the first digital banking platform for Black and Latinx people and business owners. Greenwood features best-in-class online banking services and innovative ways of giving back to Black and Latinx causes and businesses. Contact: media@bankgreenwood.com (PRNewsfoto/Greenwood Financial)

Greenwood has secured $3 million in seed funding from private investors as the first digital banking platform for Black and Latinx people and business owners.  Greenwood features best-in-class online banking services and innovative ways of giving back to Black and Latinx causes and businesses. 

  • Andrew J. Young, civil rights legend, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, and former Mayor of Atlanta
  • Michael Render, aka Killer Mike, rapper and activist in Black financial empowerment
  • Ryan Glover, Greenwood Chairman and founder of Bounce TV network

“It’s no secret that traditional banks have failed the Black and Latinx community,” said Ryan Glover.  “We needed to create a new financial platform that understands our history and our needs going forward, a banking platform built by us and for us, a platform that helps us build a stronger future for our communities. This is our time to take back control of our lives and our financial future.  That is why we launched Greenwood, modern banking for the culture.” 

“Today, a dollar circulates for 20 days in the white community but only six hours in the Black community,” said Michael ‘Killer Mike’ Render. “Moreover, a Black person is twice as likely as a white person to be denied a mortgage. This lack of fairness in the financial system is why we created Greenwood.”

Greenwood’s executive leadership includes:

  • Aparicio Giddins, President & Chief Technology Officer (previously of Bank of America and TD Bank)
  • David Tapscott, Chief Marketing Officer (previously of Green Dot and Combs Enterprises)
  • Andrew “Bo” Young, III, Board Member (managing partner, Andrew Young Investment Group)
  • Dr. Paul Judge, Board Member (co-founder of Pindrop and TechSquare Labs) 

Product

Greenwood’s initial products are savings and spending accounts that come with a stunningly designed black metal debit card for customers who sign up by the end of the year.  Advanced features like Apple, Samsung, and Android pay, virtual debit cards, peer-to-peer transfers, mobile check deposits, and free ATM usage in over 30,000 locations are offered with no hidden fees. Customers who invite their friends to open accounts receive cash awards as a thank you from Greenwood. All deposits are FDIC insured by a partner bank.

Additionally, Greenwood plans to work with brick and mortar minority-owned banks to provide deposits to help strengthen historically black banks.

“The work that we did in the civil rights movement wasn’t just about being able to sit at the counter. It was also about being able to own the restaurant,” said Ambassador Andrew Young. “We have the skills, talent and energy to compete anywhere in the world, but to grow the economy, it has to be based on the spirit of the universe and not the greed of the universe. Killer Mike, Ryan and I are launching Greenwood to continue this work of empowering black and brown people to have economic opportunity.”

Greenwood Gives Back

Greenwood has three key avenues to support Black and Latinx causes and businesses:

  • For every customer sign-up, Greenwood will provide five free meals to a family in need.
  • Every swipe of a Greenwood debit card will prompt a donation to UNCF for education, Goodr to feed the hungry, or NAACP to support civil rights.
  • And every month, Greenwood will provide a $10,000 grant to a Black or Latinx small business owner that is a Greenwood customer.

History of the name “Greenwood”

The Greenwood name pays homage to the prosperous “Black Wall Street,” part of the  Greenwood District of Tulsa, Oklahoma, during the early 20th Century — a center of African American enterprise, entertainment, skills, wealth and investment capital.   Though it was destroyed by white mobs in 1921, the Greenwood District remains an enduring symbol of the economic potential of community solidarity. The new Greenwood neobank takes inspiration from the entrepreneurial and empowering spirit of the Greenwood District where a dollar typically circulated 36 times – and for up to a year — within the Black community. The new Greenwood also is proud to be a backer of the contemporary Greenwood Culture Center in Oklahoma.  

To sign up for a Greenwood account, visit www.bankgreenwood.com.

Jesse Williams invests in Greenwood, the banking platform for Black and Latinx communities

Actor, director, producer, and community activist Jesse Williams (left) joins Bounce TV founder Ryan Glover as an investor in Greenwood, a new digital banking platform for Black and Latinx people and business owners. Greenwood features best-in-class online banking services and innovative ways of giving back to Black and Latinx causes and businesses. Contact: media@bankgreenwood.com

Actor, director, producer, and community activist Jesse Williams has become an investor in Greenwood, a new digital banking platform for Black and Latinx people and business owners. While Williams is known by many for his role on the long-running ABC series “Grey’s Anatomy,” he also has been an activist for humanitarian and racial justice causes.  Williams won the BET Humanitarian Award in 2016 and an NAACP Image Award in 2019. He is involved with multiple organizations focused on racial justice.

“I’m excited to join the Greenwood team and work to advance economic prosperity for people of color. The time has come for Black and Latinx communities in America to strengthen our economic condition and influence. By increasing access to essential banking services and financial education, Greenwood is a key part of that movement.”

Jesse Williams

Greenwood and Williams have produced a series of videos about the financial empowerment movement. The first spot, titled “You Ready,” available at www.bankgreenwood.com/you-ready, posts to Greenwood’s social media channels today. All the videos were produced, directed and staffed by a nearly all-Black cast and crew and feature a number of Black and Latinx entrepreneurs and Black- and Latinx-owned businesses. In addition, the videos were executive produced by Ri-Karlo Handy, who has become a vocal advocate for Black equity in Hollywood. The spots were scored by noted artist, songwriter and producer Johnta Austin. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cHgKmi290nI&feature=emb_logo
Amid Rise in COVID-19 Deaths, “Last Responders” PPE Awareness Fundraising Initiative Helps Protect Funeral Industry Workers

Amid Rise in COVID-19 Deaths, “Last Responders” PPE Awareness Fundraising Initiative Helps Protect Funeral Industry Workers

by | May 21, 2020 | Business, Featured News, National News

FUNERAL ADVOCATES OF AMERICA AND #GETUSPPE TEAM UP TO OFFER FREE PPE TO FUNERAL HOMES ACROSS THE COUNTRY

Maryland funeral & cremation services experience surge, lack of equipment during pandemic

BALTIMORE (WBFF) — Local funeral homes and crematoriums are seeing an increased workload and shortages of necessary protective equipment as the number of deaths related to COVID-19 continue to rise here in Maryland. “It’s changed to something we could have never imagined,” funeral director Dr. Hari P. Close told FOX45.

Funeral Advocates of America LLC (FAA) and #GetUsPPE have joined forces to launch the ‘Last Responders Awareness Initiative’, Co-Founded by Ashley Jackson and Dr. Hari P. Close. The initiative’s goal is to draw attention to combat the issue of the severe lack of protective equipment and the growing crisis of COVID-19 casualties among death care professionals. Facing the possibility of mass fatalities due to the Novel Corona virus pandemic, FAA is taking matters into their own hands by launching the initiative to raise funding to buy PPE to donate to funeral homes nationally through the Supportful.com platform. In partnership with GetUsPPE.org, protective equipment will be acquired and distributed to funeral homes across the country – especially those in high casualty areas.

Dr. Hari P. Close II, CFSGM, National President of NFDMA and Last Responder Initiative Co-Founder dons full PPE to protect himself during the embalming process. (Photo courtesy of Funeral Advocates of America)

Death care professionals are often not considered when people think of “front line” workers, but in fact their job starts when the medical professionals’ ends. With FAA joining forces with #GetMePPE to facilitate this initiative, this is the first time that health care workers and death care workers are coming together to expand awareness of the shortage of PPE for both industries and to protect all front line workers.

“It is essential for the health care and death care industries to unify. Essentially, this is the first time that the death care industry has aligned with the medical industry to bring national attention to bridge the gap for ALL health care workers nationally, to provide the necessary protective equipment to help protect and save our dedicated professionals and colleagues’ lives.”

Dr. Hari P. Close II, CFSGM, National President of NFDMA and initiative Co-Founder.

The Department of Homeland Security has designated Funeral Homes as “critical infrastructure” to provide them priority access to protective equipment, but the growing demand has not been met. With a broken supply chain of protective equipment such as hazmat suits, disposable body bags, goggles, gowns, biohazard disposal supplies, N95 masks, and gloves, death care workers are putting their lives at risk on a daily basis by continuing to assist families without having adequate protective gear and equipment.

The last responders: Funeral homes on the front lines

The death toll in New York state is now more than 10,800. The fatalities are weighing on funeral directors who are also acting as caregivers for the families of the deceased.

“For so many in our community, funeral homes provide a sense of support and security in moments of great sorrow,” said Derrick Johnson, President and CEO, NAACP. “We recognize the need for funeral homes to be a safe place for families to give their loved ones a proper burial. During these times, this task is made more difficult if they do not have the necessary personal protection equipment (PPE) to ensure the safekeeping of staff and patrons. We call on local and state governments to protect the sanctity of funeral homes by giving them access to protective equipment.”

As FEMA stockpiles of PPE dwindle, the ‘Last Responders Awareness Initiative’ in association with #GetUsPPE, will facilitate the collection and distribution of supplies to funeral homes throughout the United States. To donate to the “Last Responders Initiative” visit supportful.com/lastresponderdonations if you are a funeral home in need of PPE please register at https://getusppe.org/request/.

Listen to Dr. Close as he encourages fellow death care professionals. You can hear the interview in its entirety on SP Radio “Talking Points”.
‘Living Rooms into Life Rooms’, How Christians in the U.S. are Answering the Call During the Coronavirus Quarantine

‘Living Rooms into Life Rooms’, How Christians in the U.S. are Answering the Call During the Coronavirus Quarantine

by | Apr 3, 2020 | Church

We just get too busy living and watching others live that we forget the one who gave us life. So we’ve been turning living rooms into life rooms. So, make room.
-Jonathan McReynolds

©Omar Medina Films from Pixabay

The Same God In a New Normal

The global pandemic of COVID-19 has turned life upside down around the world. Regardless of your norm, it has been impacted by the spread of the coronavirus and the pandemonium brought on by the pandemic. Believers are limited considering many if not all states are enforcing shelter in place orders that restrict gatherings of more than 10 people. To comply, churches of all sizes have resorted to streaming their weekly services. This in turn brings the church “home” as never before seen in the 20th or 21st centuries. As Jonathan McReynolds says in his “Life Room Anthem” “we’ve been turning living rooms into life rooms” indicative not only of the setup in which he recorded his critically acclaimed album, but the fellowship that takes place when worship and devotion take place outside of the church building, thus intentionally making room for the Lord in their daily lives.

The new normal for worship services. Photo by John-Mark Smith from Pexels

For believers experiencing this new normal, their connection to church as they know it is hard wired to wireless devices and telephones. While technology isn’t always heralded as ‘divine’, this interruption is perceivably so. Church as we know it and have come to know it hasn’t only changed, it’s changing. As ministries work to perfect their streaming capabilities one question lingers, will congregants run back to the church building?

Make no mistake about it, the church will never be closed, so long as ‘go ye’ is still in the bible!

This season of quarantine is also one of reflection as believers may embrace the idea of watching instead of attending church. Giving is a snap regardless of church size and some ministries have even reported an increase in giving. The online access many churches have now made part of their operation has netted new viewers and congregation members. The word is going forth and reaching further than before, with little to no one actually inside a church building. Make no mistake about it, the church will never be closed, so long as ‘go ye’ (Matthew 28:19-20) is still in the bible!

Now go, be the church!

What believers are discovering during the quarantine lockdown is the unprecedented opportunity to be(come) the church Christ has always spoken of. This church not only serves as His ambassadors, but His interest. While you can imagine that ministry leaders would be more relaxed while leading from home, there is even more urgency to get the word out. Shares of weekly services are on the rise and though done digitally, “church hopping” is a thing now, and not at all chagrined. With grim news releasing each day, believers are sharing their faith more boldly and frequently as opposed to keeping it bottled up in public, yet effervescent in church gatherings.

The quarantine has also given the church a chance to purge from itself the impurities of social life that sour the weekly worship experience alluded to when choosing to skip church services. For starters, there are no cliques to make you uncomfortable and exclude you from the best experiences of the congregation. Secondly, there are no seats to claim or be kicked out of by the more seasoned or prized saints. In fact, your seat while watching church online is probably the best seat in your house! Thirdly, all the saints we’ve said need to ‘get out more’ finally have a chance to do so. This relief is beneficial even for church staff who are normally encumbered by their weekly workload. One of the greatest benefits of the lock down is the newfound perspective, when you diversify your online church viewing experience.

You’ll discover just how big the Kingdom is and how vast the Christian experience is by way of online broadcasts and social media. Other ways this quarantine has unexpected benefits to Christian living are the broadcasts, themselves. Services are stripped down, and our denominational differences are stripped away. Many of the tenets of in-person worship service aren’t applicable now (even communion and confession). Pope Francis has suggested that Catholic faithful take their sorrow directly to God in lieu of making confession to a priest during the lockdown.

The church’s connection to the world has come down to the Word and worship…simplicity is working to the saving of souls. And at least for now, solidarity is on the rise within scattered congregations. Members are looking to their leaders for instruction and direction instead of the norm of lodging complaints about what they aren’t doing or are incapable of doing. This worst-case scenario is bringing out the best in leaders some would consider to not be the best.

Lord, send a revival

During the lockdown, church gatherings aren’t essential, but make no mistake about it, the church is! Church is more “open” than it ever was before the COVID-19 lockdown that transformed life for everyone. It’s as if this shaking will cause the church in America to re-examine its true roots. Grassroots gospel is what revolutionized the first century church. Any rejection of an adjusted worship experience wreaks of idolatry. Perhaps ministries worship the act of worshiping together rather than the Lord, Himself. Shelter in place orders are not an ungodly affront nor are they an attack on first amendment rights. What is ungodly is the lack of wisdom that knowingly puts lives in jeopardy. Consider the collateral damage experienced by congregants and leaders who were recently affected after attending large gatherings in Louisiana, Arkansas and Michigan.

Please be advised, the American church is not being persecuted. The American church is being asked to play its part in flattening the curve, that’s all. Our counterparts in other countries are under persecution. Not even Muslims are experiencing persecution, as this futile argument would suggest. Earlier this week, footage was shared of authorities in India interrupting a service at a mosque because of the unsafe numbers. What the American church is experiencing if anything is a shaking and even a revival. This may seem implausible with much of the country sheltering in place, but the people of God that emerge from the quarantine lockdown won’t be the same believers. There’s no way they could be. Think less of the lockdown as isolation and more as incubation.

Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
Ephesians 2:19-22 KJV

The focus now isn’t on our church buildings, clothes or personas. It’s in the way we reach God and allow Him to reach us. It’s about what it should have always been about, a personal relationship with Christ. How you achieve isn’t as important as where you may achieve it, right there in your living room…believers, it’s time to make room!

Church closed this weekend? Come visit mine!

Church closed this weekend? Come visit mine!

by | Mar 14, 2020 | Christian Perspective, Church, What I Said

This weekend, lots of churchgoers are displaced. With the onset of the Coronavirus pandemic, many large gatherings are forbidden citing public safety concerns. Many mega ministries have made the wise decision to comply with public health officials and their directives, and Joel Osteen of Lakewood Church in Houston was the first to announce this weekend’s closure.

It’s a wise decision and many ministries are suited to handle not only online viewership, but digital giving. But, what about the people who aren’t comfortable with watching service and just need to go somewhere? What about those who feel like they must be in service somewhere? There are even those who have quoted Hebrews 10:25 admonishing other believers to press to beyond their fears (and even health officials) to gather in the name of the Lord. 

Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. 
Hebrews 10:25

New Look Friends and Family Day

The safe number has toggled between 250 and 500 leading to many cancellations this weekend and beyond. What about churches with membership and weekly attendance well beyond 250? This is a great opportunity to welcome new visitors this weekend! Not necessarily to try and gain new members, but to simply make new friends and make room for those who normally don’t or can’t come because of their obligations at their own church. While many churches have struggled to decide whether or not to remain open this weekend, they have missed out on a great opportunity for outreach in the community and even within their social networks.

As the pandemic rages on, large gatherings will continue to be affected. Smaller congregations have a unique opportunity to welcome guest and still not risk swelling beyond the safe number provisioned by local health officials.

As a precautionary measure, we do advise each ministry that remains open to become proactive in the prevention of the spread of the Coronavirus. Please be sure to have ample soap, warm water and hand sanitizer in the restrooms. Also, disinfect hard and soft surfaces which can spread the virus when touched. Next week, we will share information about how to disinfect your sanctuary’s carpet, chairs and vents.

Got Room for New Friends and Faces?

If you would like to be included in our directory of small congregations willing to welcome new faces, email us at: info@soulprospermedia.com.

Gloria Gaynor invites survivors everywhere to scrub with viral challenge on TikTok

Gloria Gaynor invites survivors everywhere to scrub with viral challenge on TikTok

by | Mar 13, 2020 | Featured News

Gloria Gaynor isn’t just surviving these days, she’s thriving! She has survived numerous personal and professional obstacles and is still just as inspiring today as she’s ever been! Today, she’s inspiring her followers on TikTok to limit the spread of the Coronavirus and scrub it out with her #iwillsurvivechallenge.

@gloriagaynor

With the onset of the Coronavirus pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is admonishing people to take precautions like thoroughly washing their hands for 20 seconds and refraining from touching their face. Of course, there’s an element of fear that has gripped the nation, but Gaynor wants to add an element of fun that will help keep new infections down!

One of the easiest and most efficient preventions is the simple act of washing your hands – or as Los Angeles Times reports, “scrub with soap and water for 20 seconds — or about the time it takes to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ twice.” Already a massive hashtag on social media outlet TikTok with #iwillsurvivechallenge enjoying millions of fan vids lip-synching to her worldwide smash, Gloria has decided to use her platform to help spread the health-conscious initiative by filming her own TikTok vid using that popular hashtag.

For the past 41 years, I have watched and listened to how ‘I Will Survive’ has given hope, encouragement and inspiration to my fans around the globe. It is my hope and desire that this song will continue to bless and
heal you during these trying times.”  

– Gloria Gaynor

“I will Survive” is Gloria Gaynor’s breakout hit was the sole winner in the GRAMMY Disco category (1980). Not only was Gaynor the only winner of the category, she was the only woman to win the accolade. Gaynor won this year’s Best Roots Gospel Album for her album “Testimony”. With 40 years between GRAMMY wins Gaynor has survived adversity that led her to each win. “I Will Survive” was a B-side and when it hit big, many listeners didn’t even know where to find it. Gaynor knew it was a hit from the start and pressed on knowing that it would be much bigger than the anticipated A-side.

After many years of her desire to record a gospel album being rebuffed, Gaynor was finally able to record the album and what a feat it has been! The desire was fulfilled and great music was made. Gaynor says the newest GRAMMY will be there to “balance out my piano.” With the GRAMMY win, Gaynor not only adds to her award-winning career and growing award collection, she joins a unique group of winners in multiple categories.

Gloria Gaynor isn’t only known in multiple genres, she’s loved and celebrated across multiple generations. Her “I Will Survive” video blew up to nearly a million views and the new challenge is sure to do the same and if nothing else, inspire better health awareness.

Earlier this week, Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson announced from Australia that they have contracted the Coronavirus and are recuperating amid filming postponement in light of their recovery. To date, there have been more than 145,000 cases and more than 5,000 deaths, worldwide. On a brighter note, more than 70,000 have already recovered from the virus.

Join Gloria Gaynor on TikTok and replace fear with fun as you wash your hands to the disco classic. We can’t wait to share more about Gloria Gaynor’s 40 plus year musical journey. Subscribe to our “On the Record” podcast so you don’t miss an episode!

The SMG Report