2ND ANNUAL JUNETEENTH GVL GALA SCHOLARSHIP & FESTIVAL FUNDRAISER Friday, June 16, 2023 Greenville Convention Center, 1 Exposition Dr., Greenville, SC
Page - 2 | Juneteenth GVL Royal Gala 2023 The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth According to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture. On “Freedom’s Eve,” or the eve of January 1, 1863, the first Watch Night services took place. On that night, enslaved and free African Americans gathered in churches and private homes all across the country awaiting news that the Emancipation Proclamation had taken effect. At the stroke of midnight, prayers were answered as all enslaved people in Confederate States were declared legally free. Union soldiers, many of whom were black, marched onto plantations and across cities in the south reading small copies of the Emancipation Proclamation spreading the news of freedom in Confederate States. Only through the ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment did emancipation end slavery throughout the United States on December 6,1865. But not everyone in Confederate territory would immediately be free. Even though the Emancipation Proclamation was made effective in 1863, it could not be implemented in places still under Confederate control. As a result, in the westernmost Confederate state of Texas, enslaved people would not be free until much later. Freedom through the Emancipation Proclamation finally came on June 19, 1865, when some 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas. The army announced that the more than 250,000 enslaved black people in the state were free by executive decree. This day came to be known as “Juneteenth,” by the newly freed people in Texas. The post-emancipation period known as Reconstruction (1865-1877) marked an era of great hope, uncertainty, and struggle for the nation as a whole. Formerly enslaved people immediately sought to reunify families, establish schools, run for political office, push radical legislation and even sue slaveholders for compensation. Given the 200+ years of enslavement, such changes were nothing short of amazing. Not even a generation out of slavery, African Americans were inspired and empowered to transform their lives and their country. Juneteenth marks our country’s second independence day. Although it has long celebrated in the African American community, this monumental event remains largely unknown to most Americans. The historical legacy of Juneteenth shows the value of never giving up hope in uncertain times. Juneteenth honors the end to slavery in the United States and is considered the longestrunning African American holiday. The day was first recognized as a federal holiday on June 17, 2021, when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law after the efforts of Lula Briggs Galloway, Opal Lee, and others. Emancipation Day celebration, June 19, 1900 held in “East Woods” on East 24th Street in Austin. Credit: Austin History Center.
www.juneteenthgvl.org | Page - 3 Table of Contents Page 2...................................................................................................................History of Juneteenth 4..........................................................................................................................................Welcome 6..................................................................................................................................Gala Program 7.............................................................................................................Life Every Voice and Sing 8.............................................................................................Entertainment and Special Guests 10.....................................................................................................Mr & Miss Juneteenth 2022 11..............................................................................Inaugural Juneteenth 2022 Gala Photos 12................................................................................................................................Gala Vendors 13........................................................................................................................Art Exhibit Artists 14..................................................................................................................................Sponsor Ads 20......................................................................................Juneteenth GVL Schedule of Events 21...........................................................................Meet the Juneteenth GVL Event Directors 22.......................................................................................................Special Acknowledgments 23..............................................................................................Dedication to Mrs. Naomi Hays
Page - 4 | Juneteenth GVL Royal Gala 2023 Greetings from the Founder & Executive Director Rueben J. Hays, Jr. Juneteenth Gala Attendees and my Beloved Black Community, I am grateful for your presence tonight. On behalf of Juneteenth GVL, we extend our deepest appreciation and heartfelt gratitude for joining us at the Juneteenth GVL Gala. Your presence and enthusiastic participation makes this event successful, and we are immensely grateful for your support. The Juneteenth GVL Gala is a celebration of Black freedom, culture, and unity. Together, we honor the historical significance of Juneteenth. This also means acknowledging Black historic experiences and contributions that has come with tremendous suffering, and our ongoing journey towards prompt justice and equality. Your active engagement and commitment to our cause are truly inspiring, and it is through collective efforts like these that we can bring about meaningful change. While I have traveled across several states to participate in Juneteenth celebrations over the years, I must admit, I didn’t receive teaching in school about June 19 being the commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States. I learned about the Civil Rights movement and the great Black inventors and activists during Black History Month, but Juneteenth’s story, celebrations, and place in history was never a part of my curriculum. I admit that I still have a lot to learn about the history of Juneteenth, but that doesn’t lessen my desire to create more opportunities for the Black community to celebrate and keep the momentum going, together. As we embark on this evening of celebration, my hope is that we will engage in meaningful conversations, connect with one another, and embrace the power of unity. Together, I want us ignite change, challenge the status quo, and create a future where every individual within the Black community is treated with dignity and respect. Once again, thank you for attending the Juneteenth GVL Gala. We look forward to your continued partnership as we work together towards a brighter future. With gratitude and excitement, Rueben Hays Jr. Rueben Hays, Jr. Founder and Executive Director Juneteenth GVL
www.juneteenthgvl.org | Page - 5 Greetings from the Gala Co-Director April Evans “Cousins!” I’m so glad you’re here at The Royal Gala, Juneteenth GVL’s 2nd annual gala. Your presence means everything to me and Juneteenth GVL, and we honor you tonight. As you look around the room and interact with all our esteemed guests, make note of the extraordinary presence of Black joy and Black love. Black Excellence and Magic, at this level, on this Juneteenth holiday and in my city, reminds me of my ancestors’ dreams they never thought they could realize. The vision God entrusted to me that gave birth to the inaugural Juneteenth GVL gala, is and will continue to be so much bigger than me or any one person. We all play a vital role in the success of “Us,” Black folx, and I desire to continue to build out that vision with you. Tonight, my hope is that The Royal Gala, along with the many other Juneteenth GVL events happening this weekend, allows “Us” to live out loud without scanning the “room” for insensitivities. I desire for “Us,” Black folx, to walk away with increased sense of identity, belonging, community, and yes, more cousins! The success of tonight must be directed to our sponsors and donors, Juneteenth GVL team members and volunteers. Sponsors, your contributions demonstrate your support of and increased engagement in the Black community. We appreciate your involvement in helping us celebrate Juneteenth and elevate the ongoing freedom movement in the Black community. Juneteenth GVL team members and volunteers, whew, they are no words! You are solid! Beyond your skills and expertise, it’s your dedication, enthusiasm, and passion to serve the Black community for me! Thank you for rocking with us! Importantly, to our esteemed Juneteenth GVL Founder, Rueben Hays, Jr., and Co-Founders, Vandavid Vernon and Peter Lee; I salute you, Black men. Thank you for not shrinking but choosing to grow publicly through every challenge and obstacle. You’ve worked tirelessly on creative outlets to honor the importance of Juneteenth and I’m extremely proud of your resilience and stick-to-itiveness. As we celebrate Juneteenth and find ourselves dancing, laughing, learning, reflecting, and maybe even shedding tears, what overwhelms my heart is knowing that WE, every single one of us, are doing so TOGETHER. That is worthy of celebration! All the best, April Evans Royal Gala Visionary & Co-Director Juneteenth GVL Greetings from the Gala Co-Director Netta Williams Welcome to our 2nd Juneteenth GVL Royal Gala. For the second year the Upstate and surrounding areas has joined together to support the efforts of Juneteenth GVL. The gala team strive to positively impact the celebration of the freedom day of African Americans. Tonight we celebrate our ancestors: we ARE a people who descended from Kings and Queens of Africa which makes us royalty by birthright. Tonight we shall continue to celebrate that “Royal” legacy by leading in celebration of our culture, positive mindset and behavior. Thank you for your support of this amazing event, I pray you enjoy this evening, without your support this could not be possible. I want to also thank our vendors, performers, the Juneteenth Gala team, the Juneteenth founder Ruben Hays, co-founders VanDavid Vernon & Pete Lee and my amazing Co-Director April Evans. Be prepared to celebrate this wonderful evening of entertainment, dining and award recognition of Mr & Miss Juneteenth. This will truly be a night of black magic and excellence!! In His Service, Netta Williams Royal Gala Co-Director, Juneteenth GVL
Page - 6 | Juneteenth GVL Royal Gala 2023 The Royal Gala Program Friday, June 16, 2023 • Greenville Convention Center 6:00pm – 7:00pm The Royal Reception with DJ Kurious George and Ave Noir Arts 7:00pm - The Royal Gala Mistress of Ceremony: Tiffany LaShá Welcome..................................................................................................................................................................Tiffany LaShá Host of Your Day with Tiffany LaShá Lift Every Voice and Sing...............................................................................................................................Jaukeem Forston Solo Worship Leader, Elberton, GA Invocation/Grace...............................................................................................................................Pastor Curtis L. Johnson Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church Dinner Served Music Provided by Fly Fidelity Greetings from Education Sponsor............................................................................................................Johnny Young, Sr. Director of Sales, TD Synnex Dance Performance..................................................................................................The Juneteenth GVL Dance Ensemble Directed by Pastor Aventer Gray Inspiring Address.......................................................................................................................................................April Evans Juneteenth GVL Gala Visionary & Co-Director Fashion Show (MC the Lovely Big O)..........................................................Michelle Black feat Social Butterfly Models Message from Founder...............................................................................................................................Rueben J. Hays, Jr. Juneteenth GVL Founder & Executive Director Presentation of Mr. and Miss Juneteenth........................................................................................Brandon Montgomery Juneteenth GVL Director of Scholarships Poet............................................................................................................................................................................Kim B. Miller Prince William County, Manassas and Manassas Park VA Poet Laureate Emerita Dance Performance............................................................................................................................T-Motion Dance Studio Thanks and Closing Remarks..................................................................................................VanDavid Vernon & Pete Lee Juneteenth GVL Co-Founders Live Entertainment with Fly Fidelity Dance Party with DJ Kurious George
www.juneteenthgvl.org | Page - 7 Lift Every Voice and Sing James Weldon Johnson Lift ev’ry voice and sing, till earth and heaven ring, ring with the harmonies of liberty. Let our rejoicing rise high as the list’ning skies, let it resound loud as the rolling sea. Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us. Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us. Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, let us march on till victory is won. Stony the road we trod, bitter the chast’ning rod, felt in the days when hope unborn had died; yet with a steady beat, have not our weary feet come to the place for which our people sighed? We have come over a way that with tears has been watered. We have come, treading our path thro’ the blood of the slaughtered, out from the gloomy past, till now we stand at last where the bright gleam of our bright star is cast. God of our weary years, God of our silent tears, thou who hast brought us thus far on the way, thou who hast by thy might led us into the light, keep us forever in the path, we pray. Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met thee; lest our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world, we forget thee; shadowed beneath thy hand, may we forever stand, true to our God, true to our native land. Often referred to as “The Black National Anthem,” Lift Every Voice and Sing was a hymn written as a poem by NAACP leader James Weldon Johnson in 1900. His brother, John Rosamond Johnson (1873-1954), composed the music for the lyrics. A choir of 500 schoolchildren at the segregated Stanton School, where James Weldon Johnson was principal, first performed the song in public in Jacksonville, Florida to celebrate President Abraham Lincoln’s birthday. At the turn of the 20th century, Johnson’s lyrics eloquently captured the solemn yet hopeful appeal for the liberty of Black Americans. Set against the religious invocation of God and the promise of freedom, the song was later adopted by NAACP and prominently used as a rallying cry during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s.
Page - 8 | Juneteenth GVL Royal Gala 2023 Tiffany LaShá Tiffany LaShá is a Woman of God, proud mother of the beautiful Miss Bella Amore, Philanthropist, Motivational Speaker, Media Personality, Actress, Singer, Writer and Producer. Tiffany is the CEO of the Elegantly Graceful Program (“EGP”), Pageant. Tiffany is the creator and host of Your Day with Tiffany LaSha’ radio show on 96.9FM REJOICE! where she brings awareness and insight to today’s pressing topics and highlights small businesses and ministries impacting the community. She also serves as a recognized host, emcee, motivational speaker, empowerment coach and mentor. In 2022, Tiffany opened The EGP Event Venue in Simpsonville, SC, an elegant, flexible event space. She has so many more endeavors on the way to continue empowering all communities, all ages, all ethnicities and all people! With the distinct recognition of being a Two-Time Upstate Black History Maker in 2020 and 2021, Tiffany LaSha’ lives by her motto, “When You Do it, Do it BIG, All the Way Around!” AveNoir Arts is an acrobatic and cirque entertainment company based in Atlanta, GA. We perform in a multitude of events, productions, and artistic presentations. We combine live performance with visual aesthetics to create interactive and holistic experiences for the observer. We are passionate about creating art with a multitude of people that possess diverse and multifarious artistic talents, backgrounds, and passions. It is our core belief that the emergent properties of collaboration contain the truest beauty of modern performance art. Fly Fidelity - launched in 2020 with a mission to pack dance floors with an unstoppable energy and undeniable soundtrack. Smooth and savvy dealers of funk, R&B and hiphop, Fly Fidelity delivers the full spectrum of heart-warming tunes and body-shaking grooves, bringing out the best of music history to keep your friends and family on the dance floor for hours. Prizing forgotten favorites over the usual suspects, Fly Fidelity draws from an extensive repertoire to dish out exactly the kind of enthusiastic entertainment designed to surprise and entertain all ages for the entire evening. For those who are serious about getting down, Fly Fidelity is the band to exceed even the wildest expectations with superb selections wrapped in excellent and unique presentations. DJ Kurious George Born George Dorrah IV, music was always a major interest in his life. His family exposed him to various genres of music, he started playing various instruments and composing music at the age of 12. Inspired by DJ Jazzy Jeff and DJ Kid Capri, DJ Kurious George got his start doing house parties for family and friends. His manager Precise Hill, discovered his musical talents and star power while working on music with him in the studio. He then gave George his first club gig, and the rest is history. Since then he’s DJ’ed for various clubs, bars, schools, churches, corporations and major concerts across the Carolinas and many other states. He’s worked with Jeezy, T.I, Future, 2Chainz, 50 Cent, Monica, Tank, Outkast, Young Dolph, Juvenile, DMX and more. He’s working on building his reputation as an international and national touring DJ, starting his music production and songwriting company, a podcast radio show, and a foundation for disabled and mentally challenged children and adults. He wants his impact on others to reach beyond the music. Jaukeem Forston Jaukeem is a solo worship leader from Elberton, Georgia. Jaukeem has been singing since the age of two, when he was singing full gospel songs in his church. At that moment his mom along with other family members knew he had a true God given talent. He enjoys singing and playing the piano in his spare time. Jaukeem is 12 years old and will be going to 8th grade this year @ Elbert Co Middle School. He plans to one day be an educator. He has won many state titles including 1st place at the State Beta Convention in Savannah Georgia last November. Jaukeem would love for everyone to follow him on his social media platform on TikTok. His handle is Jaukeemfortsonworship. Jaukeem loves the lord and enjoys singing Gospel music. When asked once what was his goal as far as the singing talent, his response was to share the gospel with as many people as he could. He is a young boy that seems a little shy when in conversations but once he has a microphone he will light up any room. T-Motion - Teresa Mattison T-motion Dance Studio’s mission is to encourage physical fitness, develop growth, and create positive self-esteem for the beginner or seasoned dancer of all ages. T-Motion Dance & Fitness strives to provide a healthy balance of mental and physical fitness in a non-intimidating, fun-filled family environment. Entertainment & Special Guests
www.juneteenthgvl.org | Page - 9 The Lovely Big O Oneshia Edens aka “Lovely Big O” is a Greenville, SC native, who shares her Christian Comedy throughout the United States and Internationally. The well-known entertainer uses her full-figured physique, family and church experiences to make anyone she meets laugh! She also draws upon her own personal experiences as a single parent and youth growing up in Greenville SC. Oneshia spreads the same level of fun and excitement on the airwaves every weekend on the number one radio station, 96.3 The Block in Greenville SC! Oneshia’s passion for comedy is like hanging out with your closest of friends and laughing uncontrollably! Oneshia’s comedy has the ability to reach all ages, genders, races and ethnicities. You will laugh like you haven’t laughed before, all while being encouraged, uplifted and strengthened with power of God’s love. Her beautiful personality, infectious laugh and humor remind us all that you too, can experience all the trials life has to offer while laughing in the Devil’s face. Oneshia lives by her personal motto; “Laugh Until the Pain is Gone” You can follow her on social media @ Lovely Big O on Facebook & Instagram. Michelle Black Social Butterfly Boutique - SC Licensed REALTOR® and owner and operator of the Social Butterfly Boutique, uses her love for beauty and fashion to benefit her community through Fashion In The City. Fashion In the City, coined as the premier social event of the year filled with fashion and philanthropy, is where the elite come to network, shop local, have fun, and preview the latest fashions from Social Butterfly Boutique and other Boutiques/Designers. Social Butterfly Boutique specializes in catering to all women from the inside and out through FASHION! Our goal is to provide you with an exceptional and professional online shopping experience. We carry the most unique fashions for the Classy & Fabulous “Butterfly Divas” ranging in sizes S-3X. Stop by to experience a new YOU or as our motto says “Take a Flight from Ordinary to Extraordinary!” Pastor Curtis L. Johnson Pastor Johnson is the Senior Pastor of Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church in Pelzer, SC, where he has served faithfully since 1993. As a man of vision, Pastor Johnson is revered for his leadership, integrity, and compassion. He is the recipient of many honors and awards. Pastor Johnson is industrious to fulfil his purpose and destiny as the Holy Spirit leads him. He is committed to sharing the message of hope and faith, as well as establishing a Christ centered culture. Pastor Aventer Gray & The Juneteenth Dance Ensemble Aventer Gray is currently the Co-Pastor alongside her husband John Gray of ‘Relentless Church’ in Greenville, SC. She is also the COO of ’John Gray Ministries.’ Aventer is a force to be reckoned with as a regular speaker at the esteemed ‘Lakewood Church’ pastored by Joel Osteen in Houston, TX. In addition to her speaking ministry, Aventer also the Co-Starred in the hit Docu-Series “The Book of John Gray,” that aired 24 incredible episodes on Oprah Winfrey’s ‘Own Network.’ She is also the Founder & President of the ‘Reign Dance Company’ where she uses dance as a catalyst for healing and hope. Her latest venture, from her ‘Aventer Gray Co’ brand is ‘Harmony Reign’ is platform for women to come together for Healing, Empowerment, Inspiration, and Restoration by providing the resources, tools, and support needed to create ’Harmony’ in all areas of their lives. Aventer Gray is the latest Woman on the rise, as she steps out of the shadows and continues to create her own lane fueled with undeniable vision, passion, and anointing. Kim B Miller Kim B Miller is Prince William County, Manassas and Manassas Park VA Poet Laureate Emerita. She is the (first and only) African American Poet Laureate for that region. Her poems have been published in African Voices magazine, an international haiku anthology, a DC newspaper, a hunger anthology and several websites and books. Kim received the 2023 and 2021 DMV Best Business Award in the category of Arts & Entertainment. In 2023, she was honored to be recognized as one of 23 Astounding Women in PWC, Virginia. Kim is the 2021 & 2022 DMV Renaissance “Haikuist” of the Year. She is the 2019 Southern Fried Haiku Champion. Southern Fried Poetry Slam is one of the largest Spoken Word and Performance Poetry tournaments in the world. Kim was featured on Voice of America-VOA. They did a documentary on her. Voice of America is the largest and oldest US funded international broadcaster. VOA did a documentary on her. Kim was also featured on WTOP, 103.5 FM. Kim is a facilitator. She creates and develops her own training material. Her interactive workshops are fun and informative. Kim facilitated an online workshop for Google. Her latest powerful poetry book is called: My Poetry Is The Beauty You Overlook. You can find more information about Kim at www.kimbmiller.com Entertainment & Special Guests
Page - 10 | Juneteenth GVL Royal Gala 2023 Mr & Miss Juneteenth Gvl 2022 Mr and Miss Juneteenth GVL Scholarship - The purpose of this scholarship is to honor the legacy of our ancestors by consistently paying it forward to our next generation. Each winner will receive $2500. Qualifications - Nominees must be a senior (minimum age 17) or recent grad of an Upstate High School and/or in 1st year of a University. The nominee must have 3.5 or higher GPA to compete and submit 500 words essay titled “What Juneteenth means to me?” DONATE TODAY for the 2024 Juneteenth GVL Scholarship & Festival Mr. Juneteenth Gvl 2022 Judah McJimpsey Miss Juneteenth Gvl 2022 Arlena Thompson
www.juneteenthgvl.org | Page - 11 Inaugural Juneteenth Gvl Gala 2022
Page - 12 | Juneteenth GVL Royal Gala 2023 Modivcare is leading the transformation to better connect people with care, wherever they are. Whether it’s on the go, in the home, or in the community, Modivcare empowers access to solutions to address health related social needs. We drive positive health outcomes by transforming the way we connect your member to care. Learn more at modivcare.com © Copyright 2023 Modivcare Inc. All rights reserved. We’re There • Non-Emergency Medical Transportation • Personal Care • Remote Patient Monitoring • Meals
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Page - 14 | Juneteenth GVL Royal Gala 2023 Personalizing the Right Care for You Whether safely in our clean facilities or virtually from the comfort of your own home, we’re creating the personalized solutions you need, to meet you where you need us. Because no matter how the world around us changes, we believe your health care should always revolve around you. Visit bonsecours.com/primarycare to connect with a primary care provider today. 15675BSADV (6-22) PRIMARY CARE FOR THE UNIVERSE OF YOU Proud to support the Juneteenth GVL Mega Fest
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Page - 16 | Juneteenth GVL Royal Gala 2023 DesignEDGE, LLC PO Box 9681, Greenville, SC 29604 Direct: 803.730.5864
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Page - 18 | Juneteenth GVL Royal Gala 2023 Cecily Tyanne Witcher Dominique Dawkins McAlister Terrell Washington Michael Allen Shay Black Faith Hudgens Art Exhibit Artists Gala Contractors
www.juneteenthgvl.org | Page - 19 AlignLife Chiropractic Natural Supplementation and spinal screenings to educate people on the importance of spinal health for overall health. Drenched IV Hydration & Wellness Wellness, Beauty, Aesthetics Skincare products. Exceptional Edibles LLC Baked Goods cake, cookies, candy apples, etc Kandles By Kai - Hand made candles. Kbcakes LLC Baked goods, gourmet cupcakes, variety of sweets. Mama T Herbs Herbal Tinctures and herbal teas. Paparazzi Jewelry and accessories S&J Clothiers LLC African apparel & accessories Social Butterfly Apparel and accessories Sweet & Frosted LLC - Sweet &Frosted LLC is an up-and-coming catering company, who specialize in custom confectioners and savory foods. ViVasecious~Artistic Home Décor One-of-a-kind Artistic Home Decor Wardell’s Bead Collection Handmade bead jewelry Gala Vendors
Page - 20 | Juneteenth GVL Royal Gala 2023 JUNETEENTHGVL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Saturday, June 10, 2023 POKER RUN FREEDOM RIDE BIKE, CAR & TRUCK SHOW 2:00pm - Kickstands Up 635 Haywood Road Greenville, SC (Relentless Church - Parking Lot) 4:00pm - Show Starts: 1601 Piedmont Highway (Hwy 20) Admission: FREE Registration for Show and Competition: $20 (Food and Beverages available) Friday, June 16, 2023 2ND ANNUAL JUNETEENTHGVL ROYAL GALA SCHOLARSHIP & FESTIVAL FUNDRAISER 6:00pm - Cocktail Hour 7:00pm - Royal Gala Greenville Convention Center 1 Exposition Drive Greenville, SC Saturday, June 17, 2023 5K CYCLING & YOGA WITH VETS 7:00am - 5K starts 20 E. Broad Street Greenville, SC (Camperdown Plaza) 8:30am CycleBar Ride #1 | 9:30am CycleBar Ride #2 10:45am Yoga with Vets (All Are Welcome) 2ND ANNUAL JUNETEENTHGVL MEGA FEST 12:00pm until 10:00pm Food & Retail Vendors | Kid Zone | Music | Performances Peace Center at Main Street & Broad Street Greenville, SC
www.juneteenthgvl.org | Page - 21 Meet the Juneteenth Gvl Event Directors April Evans Royal Gala Co-Director Netta Williams Royal Gala Co-Director Josh Knuckles Mega Fest Director Jabecca Banks Wellness Event Director Pam Adams Co-Director of History Charnise Mangle Co-Director of History Dionne Washington Freedom Ride Director Rod Dogan Job Fair Director Rueben J. Hays Founder VanDavid Vernon Co-Founder Pete Lee Co-Founder Renee Floyd Operations Specialist Dee Carter Administration Tracy Fleming Treasurer
Page - 22 | Juneteenth GVL Royal Gala 2023 Special Acknowledgments The JuneteenthGVL Executive Board would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those who have made this weekend possible. JUNETEENTH GVL TEAM Ray Shannon - Co-Director of Logistics Apostle Derrick Kinlow - Co-Director of Special Events Lorando Lockhart - Director of Media Lisa Sweeney - Director of Promotions Dr. Shalisa Lee - Director of Sponsors Shere’ Smith - Director of Volunteers Celeste Crocker - Director of Marketing & Vendors Kenny Moore - Security Specialist Rodney Neely - Security Specialist MARKETING & GRAPHIC DESIGN Andrew Robinson Celeste Crocker MEETING LOCATIONS & VENUE Victor & Teresa Mattison, T-Motion Dance Studio Relentless Church Greenville Convention Center AUDIO/VISUAL AVL Solutions WEEKEND PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEO KB Photography LHS Visions FLORIST & DECORATORS Signature of Elegance Optrics Two Mom Crew Events JUNETEENTH GVL GALA BOOK DESIGN & PRINT As You Wish Events & Designs Prints 2 Day APRIL EVANS - BOARD MEMBER HR Operations Group Manager II, TD Bank RENEE FLOYD - BOARD MEMBER Operations Specialist, Crescent Surgical Supply ALFRED MITCHELL JR., MBA, PMP BOARD MEMBER SES Support Consultant, Michelin North America RODERICK DOGAN - BOARD MEMBER Owner, 3D Fitness PASTOR AVENTER GRAY - BOARD MEMBER Relentless Church PASTOR TRACY FLEMING BOARD MEMBER | TREASURER Owner, Business and Such Accounting & Tax Services JONATHAN PINSON - BOARD MEMBER Chief Business Development Officer, SAI Diversified Energy RHONDA RAWLINGS - BOARD ADVISOR Community Director, Mill Village Ministries PASTOR STACEY MILLS - BOARD ADVISOR Pastor, Mt. View Baptist Church Executive Director, Greenville REEM PASTOR CURTIS JOHNSON- BOARD ADVISOR Pastor, Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church PASTOR WENDELL JONES- BOARD ADVISOR Pastor, Changing Your Mind Ministries SC House of Representative, District 25 BOARD MEMBERS BOARD ADVISORS RUEBEN J. HAYS, JR. - BOARD MEMBER | FOUNDER Owner | Crescent Surgical Supply LLC VANDAVID VERNON BOARD MEMBER | CO-FOUNDER Owner | Vernon Veteran Services Inc PETE LEE BOARD MEMBER | CO-FOUNDER Owner | The Cigar Experience Lounge
www.juneteenthgvl.org | Page - 23 This book is dedicated in loving memory of Mrs. Naomi Hays Dear Mama, I love and miss you so much! I thought we had much more time…. Thank you for being such an amazing wife to my father and a wonderful mother to my brothers and me. Your life and heart showered love over everyone who crossed your path. Your personality and grace were 2nd to none. Your care and attention to your patients left an indelible mark. Thank you for implanting a piece of that big heart in me. I’m learning how to submit to its power. You were so proud of the work we had done last year for Juneteenth; watching you dance and party with us all weekend will forever be remembered. Thank you for being my North Star. I dedicate Juneteenth GVL 2023 to you. Love Forever. Your 1st born, Rueben