photos by Rich Evans; pictured – Ericka Keller-Wala (CEO Brisa Builders), Vernon Jones Sr. (CEO JIG Media)
Recently the BrownsvilleNews.org launch party was held at the Brownsville Culinary Center. Business owners, developers, real estate professionals, educators, health professionals and homeowners came out to network and hear the plans and reasons for the launch of Brownsville’s new digital media platform.
“We are excited to be included in the launch of BrownsvilleNews.org, as a launch partner. Brisa Builders was recently awarded the opportunity to develop affordable housing units and commercial/ retail space in support of local economic empowerment in Brownsville. This digital media platform is the type of initiative that allows us to engage and support the community during the early stages of the development”, stated Ericka Keller-Wala, CEO of Brisa Builders.
Brisa Builders recently closed on Ebenezer Plaza, which is a three phased development in Brownsville, which will result in 531 units of affordable housing , 25,0000 square feet of commercial retail and 40,000 sq. feet of community facility on two city blocks between Hegeman and New Lots. Additionally Brisa recently was successful in winning an RFP to build a new development on Glenmore Avenue, with 230 affordable units and commercial space.
“I am personally excited about this launch, because I grew up in Brownsville”, stated Vernon Jones Sr, CEO of JIG Media. “We have some great people in this room, from home owners to business owners, and people who want to be involved in the progress of Brownsville. We own over 17 digital media platforms and we know the importance of controlling your own messaging that comes out of your community. If you don’t control the message someone else will do it for you.”
Osei Rubie, the CEO of National Standard Abstract, was also in attendance as a launch partner. Rubie’s company recently signed over $430 million in title insurance business, including deals in Brownsville. Rubie is looking to assist property owners in Brownsville, by educating them on the importance and need for title insurance.
Beacon Eldercare CEO, Yvonne Murphy, and her business partner, Patrick Toussaint, were also on hand as launch partners. Beacon Eldercare provides homecare services for seniors, as well as senior advocacy services. Their services will be very important in Brownsville, as seniors become more concerned about their ability to age at home.
Besides business owners, there were quite a few recent college graduates who live in Brownsville, at the event. These millennials will become very active in the neighborhood, and they were very excited about being a part of the launch of Brownsville’s digital media platform.
left to right, Jeffrey Legree (BrownsvilleNews partner), Vernon Jones (CEO JIG Media), Ericka Keller-Wala (CEO Brisa Builders), Yvonne Murphy (CEO Beacon Eldercare), LaToya Meaders (Dir. Catering BCCC), Osei Rubie (CEO National Standard Abstract), Chris Legree (Dir Mo Better Leadership Acad)
left to right, Ira Hunt (Business Owner), Stan Parham (Dir BrooklynBuzz.com), Vernon Jones Jr (COO JIG Media)
Attendees
Attendees
left to right; Quardean Lewis -Allen (CEO Made in Brownsville), Osei Rubie (CEO National Standard Abstract), Ericka Keller-Wala (CEO Brisa Builders), Franklin Burrowes (RE Broker)
Eric Frazier Trio
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