remodeling, boost, home, value, kitchen, basement, steel door, basement, attic, wood paneling
by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

December 5, 2023

Meet the Black Investor Helping People In Dire Need To Sell Their Home Quickly With No Closing Fees

Craig A. Gayle, CEO of Creative Financial Investments, is revolutionizing the property market with its commitment to buying houses in all conditions.

Originally Reported by Blacknews 

Craig A. Gayle, the Jamaican-American co-founder and CEO of Creative Financial Investments, a leading real estate investment firm, is revolutionizing the property market with its commitment to buying houses in all conditions, anywhere, and at any price. His company is proud to announce its simplified process that guarantees sellers a fair, all-cash offer and the potential to close transactions in as little as 7 days.

Craig says that his company stands out in the real estate industry by offering a hassle-free and efficient solution for property owners looking to sell their homes quickly. Whether facing foreclosure, dealing with inherited property, or simply wanting to offload a property in any condition, Creative Financial Investments provides a stress-free alternative to the traditional real estate market.

Key features of his services include:

• All-Condition Purchases: Creative Financial Investments is committed to buying houses in any condition, sparing sellers the need for costly repairs or renovations.

• Any Location: No matter where the property is located, Creative Financial Investments is ready to make a competitive, all-cash offer.

• Flexible Pricing: The company accommodates sellers by offering fair, all-cash deals regardless of the property’s current market value.

• Speedy Closings: With a focus on efficiency, Creative Financial Investments aims to close transactions in as little as 7 days, providing sellers with a quick and hassle-free selling experience.

Craig comments, “We understand that selling a property can be a challenging and time-consuming process. At Creative Financial Investments, we’ve streamlined our services to make it easy for homeowners to sell their houses quickly and receive a fair, all-cash offer. Our team is dedicated to providing a stress-free experience, allowing sellers to move on with their lives.”

For more information, visit CreativeFinancialInvestments.com

About
Craig A. Gayle is a leading real estate investor who specializes in the quick and efficient purchase of properties in any condition, anywhere, and at any price. With a commitment to fair, all-cash offers and speedy closings, his company, Creative Financial Investments, is redefining the real estate experience for property sellers.

For press inquiries, contact 972-338-5270.

RELATED CONTENT: Prairie View A&M University RenovationsAre Underway With The Latest $70M Engineering Building Investment

black-owned brewery
by Rafael Pena

December 5, 2023

Black-Owned Brewery in Kansas City Sets Its Sights On National Recognition

Kansas City's only Black-owned brewery, Vine Street Brewing Co., is making waves as it competes in the 15th annual Brewbound Pitch Slam.

Kansas City’s only Black-owned brewery, Vine Street Brewing Co., is making waves as it competes in the semifinals of the 15th annual Brewbound Pitch Slam Competition, taking place Dec. 6 in Marina del Rey, California.

“I might be biased, but in my opinion we haven’t made a bad beer yet,” cofounder Kemet Coleman told The Kansas City Star.

The Brewbound Pitch Slam Competition, sponsored by beer publication Brewbound, pits Vine Street Brewing Co. against some of the best startups in the industry. While the winner will receive a $10,000 grand prize, Coleman is eyeing another prize. “I think if we win, then that will definitely put us in a national conversation,” he said.

Vine Street Brewing Co. plans to present its Paper Bag Thin and Tricou Street beers during the semifinals, aiming for a light and refreshing appeal to the California judges, according to the Star. Contestants in the Brewbound Pitch Slam Competition have a limited time to pitch their business plans to experts.

Reflecting on the brewery’s recent successes, including being awarded $25,000 from GIFT KC and securing second place and $10,000 in the AltCap Your Biz Pitch Competition, co-owners Coleman, Woodie Bonds Jr., and Elliott Ivory are optimistic about the future. The influx of funds has enabled Vine Street Brewing Co. to expand its production capabilities: The company acquired a 15-barrel fermentation tank, doubling the size of its largest tank.

“This allows us to have a lot more reach to increase our capacity for our output essentially,” said Coleman. The expansion also allows the Black-owned brewery to bring its 20 beers into more restaurants and bars. Additionally, Vine Street Brewing Co. is venturing into canning. Its products are now available at the Black Pantry, and there are plans to expand into local and national stores.

Among Vine Street Brewing Co.’s noteworthy beers is “One for the Books,” a limited-edition brew created in honor of the Kansas City Public Library’s 150th anniversary. The beer features hints of caramel and vanilla and is packaged in a can designed to resemble a classic book checkout record card.

RELATED CONTENT: Two Brothers Open Philadelphia’s First Black-Owned Brewery

Kimora Lee Simmons Confirms Family Is Safe After Fire Erupted In LA Home
by Stacy Jackson

December 5, 2023

Kimora Lee Simmons Confirms Family Is Safe After Fire Erupted In LA Home

Kimmora Lee Simmons sends a huge thank-you to members of the Los Angeles Fire Department after they put out a fire in her family's home.

Kimora Lee Simmons is thankful for the Los Angeles Fire Department after first responders came to her family’s rescue during a house fire last weekend.

The fashion designer took to Instagram on Dec. 2 and filled her story with visuals of the fire that damaged part of her California home. People reported that the Simmons family was safe after the fire erupted in a lounge area inside the home. “My house caught fire. The kids and I are all fine,” Simmons wrote in one picture that showed members of the LAFD in front of her charred fireplace.

Simmons continued her message with a special thanks to the LA firefighters. “I cannot express the deepest gratitude to the numerous battalions, ladders, and units that attended to us for many hours today and quite possibly saved our lives,” she continued. “THANK YOU!❤️🥺.”

One photo showed four firemen suited up and facing the smoke that filled the fireplace. The carpet in the lounge area was pulled back, and the room was covered in debris. Other photos posted by Simmons showed the first responders putting out the fire.

Simmons is grateful that her family is safe. However, according to Us Weekly, the model did not reveal which family members were present during the home incident.

The Baby Phat designer is no stranger to maintaining a large mansion with a fireplace. As previously covered by BLACK ENTERPRISE, Simmons cashed out on her previous mansion in Beverly Hills. Inside the model’s main bedroom, where she slept, was a wood-burning fireplace. The nine-bedroom, 10-bathroom estate made Simmons a $5.5 million profit after a buyer purchased the property for $16.5 million following its on-and-off appearance on the rental market for several years. In December 2022, Simmons offered to lease the spot for $62,500 monthly. The new owner’s lease offer increased to $100,000 a month.

Ashanti, Nelly
by Jameelah Mullen

December 5, 2023

Ashanti Expecting First Child With Nelly, Source Says

A source close to the couple confirmed the pregnancy to "People."

Ashanti has not only circled the block with her rapper boyfriend, Nelly, but according to a source, the “Baby” singer may soon become a mother.

Ashanti, 43, caused an internet buzz at Nelly’s Black and White Ball in St. Louis. While on stage, the singer placed her hand on her belly and Nelly followed suit.  The couple broke into laughter before walking off the stage, leaving the crowd questioning the meaning of this exchange. 

A source close to the pair told Us Weekly that “Nelly and Ashanti are welcoming their first baby together.”  will soon be parents. The New York Post contacted Nelly’s rep for comment, but the “Country Grammar” rapper neither confirmed nor denied the pregnancy. 

 The famous couple first began dating in 2003 and stayed together for 11 years before breaking up in 2014. 

When the former couple appeared on stage together at Fat Joe’s and Ja Rule’s Verzus in 2021, fans began entertaining the idea of a possible reconciliation. Ashanti shut down the idea. “Listen, there’s nothing happening,” the “Rain On Me“ singer said, according to Hot New Hip Hop.  

In April 2023, the pair was spotted together at a boxing match in Las Vegas, sparking rumors of a renewed romance. Nelly confirmed that when he appeared on Boss Moves with Rasheeda, where he told the show’s hosts, Rasheeda and Kirk Frost, that he and Ashanti were “cool again.” He added that their time apart caused him to see their relationship from a new perspective. 

“Sometimes being separate, you understand one another more,” Nelly said. 

If reports are true, this would be Ashanti’s first child and Nelly’s third. The rapper has a daughter Chanelle, 29, and son Cornell Haynes III, 24, with his ex, Channetta Valentine.

RELATED CONTENT: Ashanti And Nelly Are ‘Very Happy’ After Rekindling Romance

Ime Udoka, ejected, game, rockets, lakers, Lebron James
by Jameelah Mullen

December 5, 2023

Houston Rockets Coach Ime Udoka Ejected From Game After Heated Confrontation With LeBron James

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka was ejected from the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday night

 

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka was ejected from the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday night after what appeared to be a disagreement with LeBron James, CBS Sports reports.  

The men exchanged words in front of a referee, JT Orr, who gave both of them technical fouls. Udoka, who had already received a technical foul in the second quarter, was ejected from the game. 

Both men were asked about the heated exchange in postgame interviews, but neither was forthcoming with details.

“We had some conversation, and they didn’t like what they heard,” Udoka said. 

James took a humorous approach to his answer.  

“Thanksgiving. How much we enjoyed Thanksgiving,” the All-Star champion quipped. 


 A clip surfaced on X, which picked up part of the conversation. James could be heard addressing Udoka.  

“We’re all grown men here. That b*tch word ain’t cool…. don’t use that word so loosely.” 

That wasn’t the only moment of friction in the game. Rocket forward Tari Eason and Lakers guard Cam Reddish also got into a squabble. Eason was attempting a free throw when Reddish walked into his chest.  

“He walked into me and said something. I did not like it and wanted him to stand on it,” Eason told Sports Illustrated  

James and the Lakers defeated the Rockets in a 107-97 victory. The Rockets have lost their eighth consecutive road game, making them the only NBA team that has yet to win a game away from home.  

Udoka previously made headlines when he was involved in a public scandal while he was the head coach of the Boston Celtics. The coach, then engaged to actress Nia Long, was having an intimate relationship with a female employee.    

“I want to apologize to our players, fans, the entire Celtics organization, and my family for letting them down,” Udoka said in a statement to ESPN’s Malika Andrews. 

Despite his public apology, Udoka was suspended from the franchise in September 2022.  

RELATED CONTENT: Ime Udoka is Out – Boston Celtics Officially Hire Joe Mazzulla as New Head Coach

offset, toys 4 nawf, carnival, giveaway,
by Kandiss Edwards

December 5, 2023

Offset Set Off The Holidays With More Than Just ‘Toys 4 The Nawf’

Rapper Offset's annual 'Toys 4 The Nawf' giveaway provided more than just toys. The focus on community health and wellbeing was abundant.

Offset remains busy with a growing family, music career, and work with The Ann Cephus Foundation, named after his maternal grandmother. Still, the 31-year-old BLACK ENTERPRISE 40 Under 40 recipient felt it was important never to forget the community that raised him. The responsibility to give back weighed on the Atlanta rapper until the pressure spurred him to begin ‘Toys 4 The Nawf.’

On Dec. 2, Offset hosted his second annual “Toys 4 The Nawf” giveaway at Berkmar High School in Gwinnett County. The rapper returned to his alma mater to spread some Christmas cheer early in the holiday season. Toys 4 The Nawf was part giveaway and carnival. While families received holiday gifts, they were treated to many other delights.

The Berkmar High School gym was filled to capacity. Inflatable bouncy structures, carnival games, and snacks were plentiful, and Black Santa was available for holiday pictures. Local barbers teamed up to provide free haircuts for children to get their holiday swag on point.

The partnership between the school and the Ann Cephus Foundation helped supply winter sweaters and age-appropriate toys. In addition to giving back to the children, Xfinity Wireless came through to help families without internet access get signed up for free service. 

BE spoke with Offset about taking time off from promoting his new album to give back. 

“I just feel like I’m not doing my duty if I don’t come back to the community,” the Grammy Award winner told BE.

“I’m going to do this every year. Give back to my people and never forget them. I see the beautiful kids’ faces and how it makes them smile to be in my presence. It’s an inspiration to them.” 

Knowing the pinch some people experience during the holiday season, Offset aims to be helpful and inspiring. 

“I want to inspire the kids and help my people out. It’s hard times, especially for our people, especially around the holidays. So I’m here for ya’ll,” the hip-hop artist said. 

Over the school year, three Berkmar High students made headlines for overdosing on school grounds. The substances that caused the students to overdose are unknown, though all three students are reported to be “OK.”

The introduction of Narcan, a stimulant used to help counteract the effects of an opioid overdose, into school systems is a new initiative spearheaded by the county. The Gwinnett Health Department was on deck to hand out free Narcan kits and train recipients on how to administer the potentially life-saving inhalant. The Gwinnett County Health Department’s involvement at “Toys 4 The Nawf” speaks to Offset’s commitment to his community and alma mater beyond gifting material items.

RELATED CONTENT: Offset To Host Second Annual Christmas Charity Event In Georgia

Northwoods Mall
by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

December 4, 2023

Black Teen Made History When He Became Youngest Store Owner At A South Carolina Mall

When Jordan Jackson, 19, opened his retail store, Birch & Pen, at Northwoods Mall in North Charleston, South Carolina, he became the youngest store owner in his town.

In 2018, 19-year-old Jordan Jackson opened his retail store, Birch & Pen, at Northwoods Mall in North Charleston, South Carolina, becoming the youngest store owner in his town. Now, he organizes numerous pop-up markets featuring his own brand and other local small businesses.

Ever since he realized his talent in styling and how he could make money from it, Jackson wanted to have his own business and be a “young boss.” Before having his own store in Northwoods Mall, he began by selling clothes via his online store, where his fashion and design skills gained widespread recognition.

With the help of his supportive mother, Keisha, he launched what was initially known as a clothing and accessories boutique that catered to both men’s and women’s high-fashion, trendy apparel.

While at the Northwoods Mall, Jackson garnered awards and recognition for his achievements. However, after just one year, he decided to close the retail store, emphasizing that this closure signifies not an end but a new beginning for a fresh idea.

“I was here to show you guys that it’s possible to follow your dreams,” Jackson told ABC News 4. “So definitely be sure and live your life unapologetically each and every day. This is not the end; this is only the beginning.”

Fast forward to a few years later, Jackson has teamed up with other businesses to open numerous pop-up markets in his hometown of Baltimore, Maryland. With his passion for design, he organizes inspiring lifestyle marketplaces that feature clothing, home decor, and food from his own brand, as well as other local brands.

Be sure to follow his brand on Instagram @BirchAndPen and his personal account @JordanJacksvn

RELATED CONTENT: 16-year-old Makes History as Youngest Black Owner of Beauty Supply Store

This news was first reported by blackbusiness.com

Cleveland Council, Tanisha's Law, Mental Health Crises, police
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

December 4, 2023

Substitute Teacher Arrested After Being Accused Of Sexual Offenses Against High School Students

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office arrested 33-year-old Jerron Dunn of Lakeland, FL

A high school substitute teacher has been arrested and charged after being accused of sexual offense against two students at a Florida school.

According to a news release by The Polk County Sheriff’s Office, 33-year-old Jerron Dunn of Lakeland, a substitute English teacher at New Beginnings High School, which is a charter school in Lakeland, was charged with Sex Offense on a Student by an Authority Figure (F2), and Transmission of Material Harmful to a Minor (F3). He was charged with sex offenses against two female students.

Police officers booked him into the Polk County Jail on Thursday, Nov. 30, and he is being held on no bond until his first hearing.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said, “This suspect used his position of authority over students to groom them and attempt to have sex with them; our hope is that there are no other victims. We encourage anyone who has been victimized by Jerron Dunn to please contact law enforcement.”

After 17-year-old and 18-year-old students told a guidance counselor that Dunn had allegedly sent videos to both of them of him masturbating via Snapchat, an investigation was started after the counselor told the Sheriff’s Office.

The 17-year-old told detectives that after borrowing Dunn’s charger one day, he added himself to her Snapchat. He allegedly sent her messages, asking the student to visit him at his house. She declined his offer, but he still sent her messages and then sent her a video of himself masturbating.

Meanwhile, the 18-year-old informed the detectives that after she accepted Dunn’s friend request on Snapchat, he allegedly told her via the app that she was pretty and wanted to have a relationship with her. She told him he was too old for her and that it would be “weird” because he was also her teacher. After sending several more messages, he also resorted to sending her videos of him masturbating. He then stated he wanted her to be a “friend with benefits” and to come over to his place to have sex.

After being busted, Dunn admitted to what the girls alleged he did. Detectives will do a forensic analysis of his cell phone as further charges are pending.

RELATED CONTENT: Maryland Substitute Teacher Removed for Scolding Black Moms on Twitter Over Raising ‘B*tchest’ Boys

Julianna Margulies, Jews
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

December 4, 2023

Julianna Margulies Issues Apology After Saying Blacks ‘Have Been Brainwashed To Hate Jews’

“I am horrified by the fact that statements I made on a recent podcast offended the Black and LGBTQIA+ communities, 'The Morning Show' actress said

The Good Wife Star Julianna Margulies is being chastised after she called out Black and LGBTQ+ people supportive of Palestine against its dispute with Israel. While appearing on the “Back Room” podcast hosted by Andy Ostroy, she commented on the war going on and said that the “entire Black community” has been “brainwashed to hate Jews.” Now, she is backtracking after the outrage over her words.

Deadline reported that the Jewish actress responded to the backlash over her statements, saying her “words” were not meant to “sow further division.”

“I am horrified by the fact that statements I made on a recent podcast offended the Black and LGBTQIA+ communities, communities I truly love and respect,” Margulies said in a written statement. “I want to be 100% clear: racism, homophobia, sexism, or any prejudice against anyone’s personal beliefs or identity are abhorrent to me, full stop. Throughout my career I have worked tirelessly to combat hate of all kind, end antisemitism, speak out against terrorist groups like Hamas, and forge a united front against discrimination. I did not intend for my words to sow further division, for which I am sincerely apologetic.”

In her discussion with Ostroy, Margulies took issue with the Black community for not “embracing” Jews when she said that “in the civil rights movement, the Jews were the ones that walked side by side with the Blacks to fight for their rights.”

She went on to make a statement that infuriated people who heard the podcast or heard about what she said when it went viral, “The fact that the entire Black community isn’t standing with us to me says either they just don’t know, or they’ve been brainwashed to hate Jews.”

Shortly after her comments became controversial, according to EW, a statement was expected to come from The Morning Show actress.

RELATED CONTENT:Julianna Margulies Believes Black Palestine Supporters Have Been ‘Brainwashed To Hate Jews’

Tyrese Rants Over Lil Nas X Latest ‘Faith-Related’ Single
by Rafael Pena

December 4, 2023

Tyrese Rants Over Lil Nas X Latest ‘Faith-Related’ Single

Lil Nas X received backlash from Tyrese after he released a teaser for his upcoming song centered around his personal struggles and faith.

Lil Nas X has received some harsh backlash from Tyrese after he released a teaser for his upcoming song centered around his personal struggles and faith, according to RadarOnline. The 22-year-old artist, known for his bold visuals and boundary-pushing music, shared a snippet of the track that quickly drew criticism.

The 75-second preview includes lyrics expressing a desire for freedom from worry, envy, and internal struggles. This seemingly introspective turn in Lil Nas X’s music contrasts sharply with his previous devilish visuals in the “Montero (Call Me By Your Name)” video.

Amid the polarizing reactions, singer and actor Tyrese took to social media to voice his concerns. Commenting on The Shade Room’s post about Lil Nas X’s new single, Tyrese scolded the artist, cautioning against playing with religious symbols. He expressed discomfort with what he perceived as a mockery of Jesus, referencing previous controversies, including Lil Nas X’s collaboration with “devilish” shoes.

In response, Lil Nas X defended his artistic choices, stating that the song merely explores themes of seeking hope in times of despair. He argued against accusations of mocking religion, highlighting his right to express himself through different artistic phases. The artist particularly emphasized the diversity of his expressions, from being a cowboy to embracing satanic imagery and now exploring Christian themes.

Taking the debate to Twitter, Lil Nas X confronted the criticism head-on, expressing frustration with how his art is perceived. He questioned why his work, regardless of its theme, faces intense scrutiny compared to other artists. The singer defended his right to artistic expression, rejecting claims that he uses gimmicks.

This isn’t Tyrese’s first time vocalizing his disapproval of Lil Nas X’s performances. In 2021, Tyrese criticized award shows, including the MTV Video Music Awards featuring Lil Nas X, suggesting they prioritize clout-chasing over genuine talent.

As the public discourse unfolds, it remains to be seen how audiences will receive Lil Nas X’s exploration of different themes and whether this artistic evolution will continue to generate controversy.

RELATED CONTENT: Lil Nas X Called Out For Wearing ‘Misogynistic’ Costume

×