Serena, ESPN, Serena williams
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

June 29, 2024

Serena Williams Set To Premiere ESPN Docuseries

'In the Arena: Serena Williams' will air on July 10, a day before she is slated to host this year's ESPYS on July 11.

Last year, Serena Williams announced that production had started on a new ESPN series, “In the Arena: Serena Williams.” Now, the network will air the docuseries on July 10, a day before she is slated to host this year’s ESPYS (Excellence in Sports Performance Yearly) Awards.

The project is an eight-part series showcasing the successful career of arguably the best tennis player to hit the asphalt court. Over 20 years, she won 23 Grand Slams in singles. The “In the Arena” edition will reveal the “most complete, intimate, and compelling account” of her long career. The series features firsthand perspectives from the 41-year-old and other notable figures who have been there throughout her life.

The docuseries examines some of Williams’ most significant Grand Slam tournaments and pinpoints defining personal achievements as the details are discussed and decoded for the cameras. It also shows and assesses her struggles to maintain her dominance throughout the sport while trying to transition into juggling family life and her entrepreneurial goals.

The documentary was directed by Gotham Chopra and co-produced by ESPN, Religion of Sports, and Tom Brady’s 199 Productions. Williams and Caroline Currier’s Nine Two Six Productions also co-produced the series.

“In the Arena: Serena Williams” was recently featured at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York.

ESPN just announced that The 2024 ESPYS will be hosted by the cultural icon and the awards ceremony will air live from The Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on July 11.

“I couldn’t be more excited to host The ESPYS,” said Williams in a written statement. “This is a dream come true for me, and something I’ve wanted to do for as long as I can remember. It has been a sensational year for sports and an unprecedented one for female athletes. I can’t wait to celebrate everyone on stage in July.”

Last month, Williams announced that she launched WYN Beauty in partnership with Ulta Beauty.

RELATED CONTENT: Serena Williams Fourth Woman To Host The ESPYs: ‘This Is A Dream Come True’

caregiver, arrested, texas, 20 deaths
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

June 29, 2024

Texas Caregiver Charged With Murder Is Under Investigation For 20 Deaths

Regla Becquer, owner of Love and Caring for People, may be involved with other deaths that have happened at her facilities

A Texas woman who owns unlicensed assisted living homes has been arrested and charged with murder after one of the residents died earlier this year. Now, Arlington police are investigating at least 20 more deaths that have taken place at her facilities.

According to NBC News, Regla “Su” Becquer, owner of Love and Caring for People LLC, was charged with murder in the January death of Steven Pankratz. Records from Tarrant County court reveal that she is still in custody on two separate $750,000 bonds.

“We have allegations of abuse, theft, and fraud by Miss Becquer and her company,” Kelly Land, an Arlington police crisis intervention specialist, said. “The stories we’ve heard from the clients and their families are disturbing and heartbreaking and unimaginable, and we are committed to delivering justice to the families and the victims.”

The Tarrant County medical examiner stated Pankratz’s cause of death was mixed drug toxicity, with trazadone, tramadol, and mirtazapine found in his system.

The Arlington Police Department has started investigating the unlicensed group homes that Becquer owns. Investigators have revealed that more than 20 clients of Becquer have died since September 2022.

Investigators also believe that Becquer and her staff did not properly care for the clients. Allegedly, they prevented clients from getting medical attention and attempted to cut off communication between the clients and their families. They are accused of making purchases using clients’ debit cards without them knowing and keeping items of their deceased clients, including phones and vehicles.

“We’ve learned about some very concerning things occurring within these homes and we want to ensure that no victims are falling through the cracks,” said Chief of Police Al Jones. “If you or a loved one has spent any time in one of these homes — or knows of any other locations this company may be operating out of – we need to know. Fortunately, our investigation has resulted in multiple clients being pulled from the homes so they can receive the legitimate care they need. But there may be others we need to help.”

RELATED CONTENT: Chicago Woman Convicted of Killing And Dismembering Landlord

Rihanna, A$AP Rocky, PUMA
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

June 29, 2024

Rihanna Teases A$AP Rocky While Reciting GloRilla’s Latest Song

The recording artist posts video showing her rapping to GloRilla's 'TGIF.'

In a viral video, Rihanna shows off her skills as she mimics GloRilla’s latest song, “TGIF,” while her boyfriend, A$AP Rocky, shakes his head at her antics. On June 28, the billionaire Bajan beauty posted to her Instagram, showcasing her dance and performance prowess as she recited the lyrics. Saying “Happy Friday” to her 151 million followers, seemingly enjoying herself while teasing A$AP Rocky, who mumbles something back to her.

As Rihanna is dancing, Rocky says, “Where’s my drink?” He shakes his head while walking away from the “Umbrella” star and says, “I’m too old for this s**t.”

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by badgalriri (@badgalriri)

The video clip has already garnered almost 7 million likes, with many fans commenting on the post. Rihanna’s joy is warranted as she recently celebrated becoming the female artist with the most diamond-certified hit songs.

She now boasts seven RIAA diamond-certified records, each selling more than 10 million units. In May, the RIAA announced that her singles “Umbrella” featuring JAY-Z, “Work” featuring Drake, “Needed Me,” and “Stay” featuring Mikky Ekko had achieved diamond status. Just one month earlier, her single “Diamonds” reached this milestone in April.

Fans eagerly await a new Rihanna release, as the pop star hasn’t dropped an album since 2016’s Anti. Meanwhile, her Fenty products keep her busy; she introduced her new Fenty Hair line earlier this month.

“#fentyhair is pullin up, and it’s time to finally have the hair experience you’ve been waiting for,” Rihanna wrote in a social media post. “You know how much switching my hair up matters to me. I’ve had almost every texture, color, and length, from weaves to braids to natural. So, I am launching a flexible line of products for not only every hair want, but every single product is designed to strengthen and repair all types of hair, which is what we truly need! It’s time to play and get stronger by the style.”

RELATED CONTENT: Rihanna Steps Out With Natural Hair On Full Display Amid Launch Of Fenty Hair

firefighter
by Stacy Jackson

June 29, 2024

Teen Girls Explore Firefighting Careers At Firefighter Weekend

DeKalb County Fire Rescue firefighter weekend dedicated a day specifically for high school girls to try hands-on activities.

In a groundbreaking initiative, Georgia’s DeKalb County Fire Rescue (DCFR) and the City of Decatur Fire Department joined forces to host a female firefighter weekend, igniting empowerment among women in the fire service and inspiring teen girls to explore the career.

The two-day event, held on June 22-23, offered a unique glimpse into a firefighter’s life. According to Dekalb County, day one at DeKalb County Fire Station No. 7 provided attendees with an insider’s tour of the state-of-the-art facility and a live demonstration. The following day, teenage girls aged 14-18 got their hands dirty at the DeKalb County Fire Rescue Academy, tackling real firefighting challenges head-on.

This event comes at a crucial time, as recent statistics from the National Fire Protection Association reveal a stark gender disparity in the field. Of the estimated 1,041,200 firefighters in the U.S. in 2020, a mere 9% were female. The breakdown shows that out of 364,300 career firefighters, 17,200 and of the 676,900 volunteer firefighters, females made up 72,400. However, the history of women in firefighting is rich with trailblazers. The U.S. Fire Administration’s timeline highlights several African American women who shattered glass ceilings. Molly Williams, in 1818, became the first woman and African American firefighter in New York City. Fast forward to 1976, Toni McIntosh broke barriers as Pittsburgh’s first African American career firefighter.

The timeline continues with Carrye B. Brown’s appointment as the first African American and woman U.S. fire administrator in 1994. In 2002, Rosemary Cloud made history as the first African American woman to lead a career fire department in East Point, Georgia. Most recently, in 2021, Annette Nance-Holt became the first African American woman to helm the Chicago Fire Department.

These pioneering firefighters paved the way for events like the Female Firefighter Weekend, inspiring a new generation of women to consider this challenging yet rewarding career.

RELATED CONTENT: Heroic Toledo Firefighter Saved Referee’s Life During Basketball League Game In New York

M.I.A., WiFi And 5G Blocking Clothing Line
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

June 29, 2024

Tin-Foil Hats And More: M.I.A.’s New Fashion Line Allegedly Shields From Radiation, Wi-Fi, And 5G

The OHMNI website warns that not only is the 'war zone' floating in the air but 'even your house is a digital battlefield.'

Recording artist M.I.A. has created a fashion line that is different from any other clothing that any celebrity or fashion designer has manufactured. The “Paper Planes” rapper launched her brand, Ohmni, touted as blocking “99.99 percent of Wi-Fi, 4G, and 5G” from entering your body.

In several recent Instagram posts, the recording artist posts pictures of the clothing line, revealing that it protects the body from harmful elements like Wi-Fi emissions, radiation, cell tower signals, RFID transmissions, and anything that can send things through your body that can cause illness.

The entry boasts that “OHMNI IS ENGINEERED FOR YOUR FULL PROTECTION”

On the OHMNI website, it explains the purpose of the innovative clothing line.

“In the time of smart cities, digital crypto, AI, NeuraLink, hackable humans, zero privacy, deepmind, internal body data harvesting, and indiscriminate tracking surveillance, mind data mining, social media overload, augmented reality, social credit system, virtual dystopian mindfield, we bring you the revolutionary future of fashion.

“OHMNI is your last frontier at preserving your privacy, autonomy, and rights over your body and your data.

“This is not your artist foray into fashion.

“This is a necessity.”

According to Complex, the collection showcases items like a $100 “Tin Foil Hat,” which promises to provide “100 percent brain coverage” and a “reversible, two-tone design”; a $200 “Data Protection Dump Bag,” which blocks “99.99 percent” of “electromagnetic radiation”; and a $200 “Full Protection Poncho,” giving you “full coverage of brain, gut, lungs, heart, and womb.”

The website warns that not only is the “war zone” floating in the air, but “even your house is a digital battlefield.” OHMNI is designed to be protective, preventative, and precious. You can check out the full collection of the clothing line on its website or view the items via the brand’s Instagram account.

RELATED CONTENT: Diddy Drops Sean John Lawsuit As Other Legal Battles Continue

Michael Jackson,Beat It, Sexxy Red
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

June 29, 2024

Michael Jackson Reportedly Was $500M In Debt When He Died

At the time of his death, the star’s 'assets were subject to more than $500 million of debt and creditors’ claims,' according to court documents

Recent court records have revealed that the “King of Pop,” Michael Jackson, had “more than $500 million of debt” when he died in 2009.

According to NBC News, the “Way You Make Me Feel” singer was preparing for a tour when he died at his Los Angeles mansion of acute propofol intoxication. Executors of his estate filed a petition detailing the financial bind Jackson was in Los Angeles County Superior Court on June 21. The popular icon died on June 25, 2009.

“At the time of Michael Jackson’s death, Michael Jackson’s most significant assets were subject to more than $500 million of debt and creditors’ claims, with some of the debt accruing interest at extremely high interest rates, and some debt in default,” based on the paperwork filed.

Right before his death, he was about to embark on his “This Is It” tour, which included a 50-show commitment at London’s O2 Arena. His death left his estate with a $40 million debt to the tour promoter, AEG.

People reported that the shows were scheduled from July 2009 to March 2010.

The executors for the estate, John Branca and A&R executive John McClain, and their attorneys, Jonathan Steinsapir and Saul Ewing, stated in a March 2024 filing that the estate was heavily in debt and on the verge of bankruptcy when the entertainer died. Now, the estate is valued at over $2 billion.

“The Executors were able to renegotiate and restructure financing arrangements that existed at the time of Michael’s death, at substantially reduced interest rates, enabling the Estate to avoid the loss of any assets to the lenders and ultimately to satisfy the encumbrances that existed at the time of Michael’s death,” the petition said.

It was recently reported that Michael Jackson’s estate is in a dispute with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Executors of Jackson’s estate say that his mother, Katherine Jackson, and his three children, Paris, Prince, and Bigi, cannot receive their trust fund money until the estate resolves an ongoing dispute with the IRS. The estate filed on Tuesday, May 28, clarifying that while the beneficiaries can’t receive the funds, it does not impact the money they will be allocated once the dispute is settled.

Jackson’s mother and children still receive an allowance through the singer’s estate. Katherine is a life beneficiary who has received over $55 million since the singer’s 2009 passing.

Biden, debate, post, president, Trump, former president, presidential
by Kandiss Edwards

June 28, 2024

President Biden Met With Optimistic Supporters Post-Debate

BLACK ENTERPRISE was in the building for the post-presidential debate gathering for the Biden campaign.

President Joe Biden participated in the first of two presidential debates against Donald Trump on June 28 in Atlanta.

At the Hyatt Regency, a few minutes from the CNN building, Biden’s supporters gathered to watch their chosen candidate spar with his political opponent. BLACK ENTERPRISE was in attendance during and after the debate. 

People of all races, genders, and sexual orientations danced and chatted. A woman, whose credentials identified her as a volunteer, waited in the catered buffet line and lamented her disdain for Biden’s political opponent. 

“I cannot deal with another four years of the orange man. He will harm this country.” 

The chatter on former President Trump’s perceived faults was abundant.

 “We have to secure the Supreme Court,” another volunteer stated. Those gathered were rewarded for their contributions to the campaign with a post-presidential debate appearance by President Biden.

Entering the venue, President and first lady Jill Biden smiled and waved to an enthusiastic crowd, chanting, “Four more years.”

The audience wasn’t deterred by what some claim was an abysmal performance by Biden. The crowd chanted, “We need you,” as President Biden expressed his gratitude for their support. Unlike the claims of incoherence during the debate, Biden’s post-debate message was clear.

“You are the reason America is as good as we are. We are the finest damn nation in the whole wide world,” Biden said.

The crowd waved Biden signs of all kinds as they cheered for what they believe is the best candidate to run the United States for the next four years. Biden’s signature aviator shades and face were made into cardboard cutouts that waved in the air as the crowd—filled with diversity—line-danced individually and in groups. 

While the joy of the moment was felt, the dawning of a new day led to varying analyses; in an interview with CNN’s Anderson Cooper, Vice President Kamala  Harris urged Americans to judge not only “a 90-minute performance” but also the performance of the administration as a whole. The VP’s sentiments suggest Biden’s performance is not being perceived in a positive light. 

In the next debate, Biden still has an opportunity to garner support from not only his loyalists but also many Americans who have yet to decide who they will cast their vote for come November. The next five months on the campaign trail will be vital to either candidate’s victory. 

RELATED CONTENT: First Biden-Trump Debate Highlights Voters’ Concerns as Biden Struggles

Styles P
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

June 28, 2024

Styles P To Rebrand ‘Juices For Life’ Juice Bars To ‘Juices 2 Heal’

The prolific lyricist will have a special ribbon-cutting ceremony for the grand opening of the latest juice bar in White Plains.

Entrepreneur Styles P of the Westchester, New York-based hip-hop group The Lox has announced that he is relaunching his Juices For Life and Farmacy For Life brands under the new name Juices 2 Heal.

On June 29, the prolific lyricist will have a special ribbon-cutting ceremony for the grand opening of the latest juice bar, which will be located in White Plains. Juices 2 Heal’s opening will be attended by politicians, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, White Plains Mayor Thomas Roach, and Mew York Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins. Members from the White Plains City Council are expected to attend as well.

Styles P, one-third of the Yonkers-bred group The Lox, had the distinction of opening “Hip Hop’s First Health Food Store” when he and his wife opened Farmacy For Life in 2010. Several years ago, he told BLACK ENTERPRISE why he started Juices For Life.

“I used to visit a different juice bar at the time. Actually, one of my partners had a juice bar before me. I used to be a patron there. I just loved what the shop did for me, how it changed my life around, and seeing how it made such a big difference.”

“Being able to see that we live around food desserts and as a rapper being able to make money and seeing how people without money live, I just felt it was mandatory to bring the information back to where I’m from so people would at least have a fighting chance and knowing about their bodies before it’s too late.”

The rapper-turned-businessman, who lives on a plant-based diet, has pledged his retirement from his solo recording career to put time and effort into the family business dedicated to the health and wellness space. Styles and his wife, Adjua, through their Farmacy For Life brand, have recently collaborated with Swiss chef Daniel Humm’s Eleven Madison Home to launch Little Farma Box and Styles PB&J.

With the rebranding of Juices For Life bars, the other locations in The Bronx and Yonkers will also see their names changed to Juices 2 Heal.
Student athletes, black athletes, cardiac arrest
by Misty Starks

June 28, 2024

Why Black Athletes Should Invest In Commercial Real Estate To Secure Long-Term Wealth

One option is securing long-term wealth by buying back the block.

As Black athletes break new ground in their professional sports careers, they also have an unprecedented opportunity to shape their financial futures. While lucrative contracts and endorsement deals provide substantial income, the volatility of athletic careers means it’s crucial to build long-term wealth beyond the sports arena. One of the most promising avenues for this is investing in commercial real estate (CRE).

Here’s why new Black athletes should consider commercial real estate as a cornerstone of their investment portfolio.

Investing in commercial real estate offers a stable, passive income stream that can extend well beyond an athlete’s playing years, according to one expert. Commercial properties, such as office buildings, retail spaces, and industrial complexes, generate consistent rental income, providing a reliable source of revenue regardless of the athlete’s active status.

“Over the years, we’ve seen so many stories of Black athletes getting big contracts today and going broke tomorrow,” ARVO Small Business CEO Ed Ryland shared with BLACK ENTERPRISE. “And now that college athletes can benefit from NIL agreements, it’s even more critical that they learn early how to secure their financial future for when their playing days are over. Investing in commercial real estate is a great way to do that.”

The beauty of commercial real estate is that property values generally appreciate over time, allowing investors to capitalize on both income and asset growth. For new Black athletes, this means leveraging their current earnings to secure properties that will grow in value, ensuring financial security and prosperity in the long run, noted Ryland.

“Real estate investment is not just about the immediate returns, but about creating a legacy of wealth that can benefit athletes and their families for generations,” added Ryland. “It’s about making smart financial choices today that will pay off in the future.”

Investing in commercial real estate can also serve as a powerful tool for community empowerment. Some Black athletes have been known to “buy back the block” in their old neighborhoods, which helps to revitalize communities in need. These transactions also assist with job creation, improve local infrastructure, support small businesses and create a positive impact that extends far beyond individual financial gain.

“Investing in commercial real estate allows athletes to give back to their communities by driving economic growth and creating opportunities,” said Ryland. “It’s a way to use their success to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.”

One of the most attractive reasons to invest in commercial real estate is the tax benefit. We’ve all heard about wealthy business owners who pay very little in taxes. That’s because depreciation, mortgage interest deductions, and various other write-offs can reduce taxable income, allowing investors to keep more of their earnings. These tax advantages can be particularly beneficial for athletes who are often in higher tax brackets due to their substantial incomes.

Whether you’re a professional athlete or not, Ryland advised those interested in commercial real estate investing to call on a professional to help them navigate the complexities of property investment.

“This isn’t something you want to do without the expertise of a professional who can help you with negotiations, market analysis, property management, and other aspects of the commercial real estate world,” Ryland said. “These partnerships ensure that athletes make informed decisions, maximize their investment potential, and manage their portfolios effectively.”

RELATED CONTENT: What Are The Top 10 Cities To Buy A Home In The United States?

Jenifer Lewis, Actress, St. Louis Walk Of Fame, Washington University, WashU, commencement,Simone Biies
by Stacy Jackson

June 28, 2024

Jenifer Lewis To Be Inducted Into St. Louis Walk Of Fame

She'll be officially inducted July 13.

Multifaceted actress and activist Jenifer Lewis will soon see her name etched alongside other legends on the celebrated St. Louis Walk of Fame.

The Walk is celebrating Lewis’ versatility, which includes everything from Broadway musicals to blockbuster films and hit TV shows. An induction ceremony for the St. Louis native is slated for 11:30 a.m. on July 13 at 6166 Delmar Blvd., preceded by a ragtime performance at 11:00 a.m.

She’ll join an eclectic mix of Walk of Fame honorees, including soul singer Donny Hathaway and track-and-field great Jackie Joyner-Kersee.

This recognition follows Lewis’ 2022 Hollywood Walk of Fame star and the release of her book, Walking in My Joy: In These Streets. Lewis received the 2,726th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Born in Kinloch, Lewis’s journey from Webster University to Broadway, and eventually to Hollywood, earned her the title of “The Mother of Black Hollywood,” gracing over 400 television episodes with her unmistakable wit and warmth.

She has appeared in movies such as Sister Act, What’s Love Got to Do with It, Poetic Justice, The Preacher’s Wife, Castaway, Madea’s Family Reunion, and Think Like a Man. Her resume of television shows includes The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, A Different World, Black-ish, and I Love That For You.

@mrskeshspeaks

Auntiiiiiieee ❤️#jenniferlewis #stlouislegend #legend #auntiesbelike

♬ original sound – MrsKesh Speaks, DTM

The St. Louis Walk of Fame, a non-profit established in 1988, serves as a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage. Its founding purpose is to “advance the knowledge, awareness, and appreciation of great St. Louisans and their accomplishments,” and its mission is to “encourage pride in the community and career inspiration in individuals.” The Walk is lined with role models from different walks of life and achievements where “everyone can identify with somebody on it who stirs motivation in them.”

This free, year-round attraction features brass stars and bronze plaques embedded in the Delmar Loop’s sidewalks, honoring St. Louis natives who’ve made significant national contributions.

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