by Jeroslyn JoVonn

March 15, 2024

Wendy Williams Facing $568K Tax Lien Over $4.5M NYC Condo Amid Health Battle

New reports reveal a tax lien placed on Wendy Williams' lavish New York City condo due to the $568,451 she owes in back taxes.

The financial woes are mounting against Wendy Williams as she battles progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia. New reports reveal a tax lien on her New York City condo due to the $568,451.57 she owes in back taxes.

The tax lien was issued last month for the condo Williams purchased for $4.5 million in 2021. The lien was generated in January due to her owed back taxes from 2019 to 2021, TMZ reports.

There is no word on whether Williams has already handled the lien as she lives under conservatorship with a woman named Sabrina Morrissey, who’s serving as guardian over the former talk show host’s finances. The news comes one month after Williams’ team revealed her diagnosis of aphasia and dementia.

A statement confirmed the diagnosis came in 2023, after Williams underwent “a battery of medical tests.” Her conditions affect language, communication behavior, and function, all of which were apparent during in the Where Is Wendy Williams? docuseries on Lifetime.

The documentary updated fans on Williams’ health and financial battles after she took a leave from her talk show in 2021, which was canceled and replaced by “Sherri” in 2022.

The radio/TV personality had been open about her Graves’ disease and lymphedema diagnoses throughout her career. But the Lifetime documentary showed that Williams was battling something much more serious. Once the first of the four-part series was released, her team released a statement announcing her progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia diagnosis. Williams later released a statement thanking fans for their support.

“I want to say I have immense gratitude for the love and kind words I have received after sharing my diagnosis of Aphasia and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD),” she told People. “Let me say, wow! Your response has been overwhelming. The messages shared with me have touched me, reminding me of the power of unity and the need for compassion.”

As for her financial situation, Williams opened up in the documentary about having “no money.”

“I have no money,” Williams says in the doc. “I’m gonna tell you something, if it happens to me, it could happen to you.”

Currently, her ex-husband, Kevin Hunter, is demanding alimony payments he was promised as part of their 2020 divorce settlement. The documentary also revealed the $100,000 UberEats bill her son Kevin Jr. acquired ahead of Williams’ placement under conservatorship.

accountant, success tips, lawyer, 100, Lester McKeever

by Charlene Rhinehart

March 15, 2024

‘There Is No Place For Mediocrity’: 86-Year-Old Accountant Shares Powerful Success Tips

Lester McKeever made history as one of the first 100 African-Americans to become a CPA in the United States. He shares powerful tips that every person needs to read on their journey to success.

Originally published Jan. 24, 2021

Lester McKeever made history as one of the first 100 African Americans to become a certified public accountant (CPA) in the U.S. According to the National Society of Black Certified Public Accountants (NSBCPA), less than 3% of all CPAs in the U.S. are Black.

“Being a CPA, a highly recognized credential in the business world, provided me the opportunity to leverage many unique opportunities,” McKeever said in an exclusive interview with BLACK ENTERPRISE.

For many decades, McKeever has worked to expose more students to the accounting profession. Through various programs, he has raised millions of dollars to provide scholarships and job opportunities for the next generation of leaders.

“Being Black limited your opportunities,” recalled McKeever of his experience trying to find a job as a Black accountant in the 1950s. “But showing true concern for your client’s success and working to improve your community provides unexpected benefits. When you give to others, you gain more than you give in trying to help.”

Creating a Foundation for Success

McKeever is proof that where you come from does not determine how far you can go.

McKeever was born in Chicago in 1934. His parents did not graduate from high school, but they fully supported his education. He displayed a strong desire to excel in all of his classes, earning him the math and science award in high school. The young achiever didn’t dream of going to college until he received the Frances and Allen Beasley Scholarship from the Robert S. Abbott Student Club. That moment changed his entire career trajectory.

McKeever went on to graduate from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, obtain his CPA license, and study law at the Illinois Institute of Technology-Chicago Kent College of Law.

“It’s a paper world,” says McKeever. “It’s unbelievable what really happens when you have credentials that indicate you are prepared to take on other challenges.”

Overcoming Obstacles as a Black Accountant

McKeever believes that mentorship and networking are important for one’s career. They were the link that helped him secure a job when major corporations were not hiring Black people.

“When I graduated from college, the Big 8 accounting firms and large corporations did not hire African Americans,” he says. “My university forced one firm to give me the courtesy of an interview. They said they couldn’t hire me because their clients wouldn’t accept me.”

McKeever started his career working with a Black-owned life insurance company. Through relationships at this firm, he was introduced to Mary T. Washington Wylie — the first Black woman to become a CPA in the U.S.

Wylie provided McKeever with a part-time work opportunity during tax season. This kicked off a long career with Washington & Pittman accounting firm, leading to an appointment to its board of directors as a managing partner. Later, the firm was renamed Washington, Pittman & McKeever.

One of McKeever’s keys to success is knowing your craft inside and out. “Anything related to the success of your career, you have to be on top of that. There’s no place for mediocrity anymore. You have to be skilled in what you are trying to do.”

Becoming a History Maker

McKeever has had a successful career as an accountant and has broken many barriers. He was a member of the Finance Committee under Chicago Mayor’s Harold Washington and Richard M. Daley. In 1997 he became chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. These history-making moments established McKeever as one of Chicago’s most influential business leaders.

If you want to achieve success and attract mentors, McKeever says that “you have to get involved in the community.” He himself has served on the board of directors for the Illinois Institute of Technology, and treasurer of the University of Illinois Board of Trustees. He was one of the founding members of the Chicago Urban League’s Impact Leadership Development Program. He also paved the way for the Mary T. Washington Wylie Internship Preparation Program.

“I always tell people to involve themselves in as many activities as you possibly can, [especially] community-type organizations. When people see you working hard and trying to help others, they see you working hard and try to help you.”

Marcia Cox, SAU, HBCU Alum, Coffee, Saint Augustine University

by Stacy Jackson

March 15, 2024

HBCU Alum Marcia Cox Donates Coffee Sales To Help Saint Augustine University Pay Debts

The 23-year-old Kaldi's Coffee House and Roastery owner is donating 30 percent of coffee sales to SAU and hopes other HBCU grads will also contribute.

Third-generation HBCU alumna Marcia Cox is leveraging her coffee venture to raise funds for Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) as the institution grapples with financial woes.

Upon learning of SAU’s financial and accreditation challenges, the 23-year-old owner of Charlotte-based Kaldi’s Coffee House and Roastery initiated a campaign to donate 30 percent of coffee sales from her crafted 1867 blend to the Falcon Pride Initiative.

“It could really be any one of our HBCUs,” Cox told ABC 11 with the hope that other HBCU graduates would also be inspired to contribute. “A lot of them sometimes are like one mistake away from maybe just going through anything, so…we should be helping each other out as much as we can because of the important legacy and history of HBCUs.”

https://twitter.com/SAU_News/status/1762955763679408314

On Feb. 13, the IRS slapped SAU with a $7.9 million lien for unpaid taxes, according to WRAL News. Additionally, the university faces accusations of failing to pay various vendors such as FieldTurf USA, which filed a $598,000 lien in December 2023 for alleged nonpayment for an artificial turf field.

ABC 11 reported that the institution was also hit on the inside, after some professors decided to cancel classes last month due to payroll issues.

Interim president Marcus H. Burgess acknowledged the university’s financial challenges and stated, “Our current financial situation, or lack thereof, has significantly hindered the operations across our campus … we are pursuing several opportunities around our greatest asset, our land.” However, Burgess assured that “classes are proceeding as scheduled” and thanked faculty, staff, supporters, stakeholders, and the broader community for their “unwavering support.“

In 2023, former head football coach Howard Feggins sued the university just months after being fired, according to BLACK ENTERPRISE. Feggins’ lawsuit against SAU claimed a breach of contract, breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing, fraudulent/negligent misrepresentation, and tortious interference with contractual relations.

Vybz Kartel, Murder Conviction, overturned, juror, jury, life sentence, London, gun, privy court, 32 years, life sentence

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

March 15, 2024

Jamaican Dancehall Icon Vybz Kartel Has Murder Conviction Overturned

Dancehall king Vybz Kartel received his first legal win in years after getting his murder conviction overturned.

Dancehall king Vybz Kartel received his first legal win in years, after getting his murder conviction overturned.

On March 14, Vybz (real name Adidja Azim Palmer) had a successful appeal with the Privy Council in London over a juror, accused of trying to bribe others, who should have been thrown off his trial, BBC reports. Now it’s up to authorities in Jamaica to decide whether or not the case will be retried.

Kartel, 48, was sentenced to life in prison in 2014 for the 2011 murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams on the Caribbean island. He was given life imprisonment with a minimum of 35 years, which was later reduced to 32 and a half years following a successful appeal.

The “Romping Shop” musician is one of Jamaica’s most popular artists, with hits like “Clarks” and “Summer Time” and collaborations with Jay-Z and Rihanna. Many were shocked over his conviction, which followed a 64-day trial—one of the longest in the country’s history.

During the trial it was revealed that two victims, Clive Williams and Lamar Chow, were given two unlicensed firearms that belonged to Kartel for safekeeping. When they failed to return the firearms, they were summoned to Kartel’s home, in August 2011 where Chow testified that they were tortured before his last sight being Williams, who was never seen alive again, lying motionless on the ground.

Kartel’s home was burned down days later; Williams’ body was never recovered. The dancehall artist, along with his co-defendants Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St John, maintained their innocence.

An appeal hearing that took place last month was their last chance to reverse the verdict. A panel of justices argued that a juror accused of trying to bribe jury members was never taken off the case and was allowed to have a say in the final verdict.

Allowing the juror to stay was “fatal to the safety of the convictions which followed” and “an infringement of the [defendants’] fundamental right to a fair hearing,” the justices said.

Elsewhere, they argued that the jurors were sent to reach a verdict late in the day, which put them under “undue pressure.” They also said that a text message allegedly sent from Kartel’s phone, which served as a key piece of evidence during the trial, had been obtained in breach of guidelines.

While Kartel’s guilty verdict has not been overturned, his overturned murder charge could help him see an earlier than expected release.

by Kemberley Washington, CPA

March 15, 2024

Here’s How You Survive An IRS Audit

No matter the reason the IRS decides to come knocking, one thing is certain: You must be prepared.

Originally published Jan. 10, 2018

You receive the letter many dread: The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has requested to audit your tax return. It could be for many different reasons. Maybe your income on your tax return did not match the amount reported to the IRS, or your expenses seem a bit questionable. If so, you could be the lucky winner of a full IRS audit. No matter why the IRS decides to come knocking, one thing is certain—you must be prepared.

As a former Internal Revenue Service agent, I have had the opportunity to participate in a host of audits, and time and time again the key to surviving the unwanted ordeal is to make certain you understand your rights and responsibilities.

Fight Back

You should first get an understanding of what items are being audited and review the examiner’s document request. That request will outline items needed to substantiate the amount claimed on your tax return. Remember, during a civil tax audit, the burden of proof is on you.

Gather documents to substantiate questionable items on your tax return. If you do not have any records, there is still hope! Remember, there are other methods of substantiating items on a tax return. For example, if you are a home health nurse and you previously claimed vehicle expenses, consider obtaining patient records for the appropriate taxable year and estimate mileage based on these visits. Examiners are allowed to accept various types of evidence to substantiate items, including third-party testimony, affidavits, and other types of verification.

Get Help

If you are uncomfortable with the mere mention of the letters I-R-S, it may be a good idea to get an agent to work on your behalf. It could be a certified public accountant (CPA), an enrolled agent, or even a tax attorney. Once you inform the IRS examiner that you seek to obtain representation and the IRS has received your completed Form 2848, Power of Attorney, the IRS must make all future contact with the representative only, alleviating you from having to speak to the IRS.

Do Not Settle for Defeat

If you are not in agreement with the examiner’s position, you do have rights. First, you should raise your concerns with the examiner. Most often, the examiner will be willing to compromise on certain issues, if you are willing to sign an agreed report. However, if you are unable to come to an agreement with the examiner, you can request a meeting with the examiner’s manager, or request that the case be heard by appeals.

Remember, the ultimate goal of both the examining group and appeals is to close the case without a subsequent trial. Therefore, if you stay persistent, chances are you will be able to obtain favorable results.

Mississippi River, Louisiana, cancer, Louisiana, cancer alley, toxic, disease

by Stacy Jackson

March 15, 2024

Louisiana’s ‘Cancer Alley’ Sees Disease Rate 7x National Average

The community suffocating under the weight of toxic emissions sees rates of disease and birth defects up to seven times the national average.

Black residents along an 85-mile stretch of road between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, Louisiana, known as “Cancer Alley,” face a grim reality as rates of disease and birth defects there climb up to seven times the national average.

The area’s total of 1.5 million residents — who are predominantly Black — are surrounded by more than 200 fossil fuel and petrochemical operations, increasing the risk of chronic health conditions and a high rate of underweight and premature births three times the norm, Daily Mail reported.

The stretch of land by the banks of the Mississippi River is the focus of a report by Human Rights Watch that accused state and federal regulators of systemic neglect and turning a blind eye to the dangers posed by industrial facilities.

Senior fossil fuels researcher at Human Rights Watch, Antonia Juhasz, said, “The fossil fuel and petrochemical industry has created a ‘sacrifice zone’ in Louisiana. The failure of state and federal authorities to properly regulate the industry has dire consequences,” Daily Mail reported.

The report calls for the state’s Department of Environmental Quality to deny permits in the overburdened area and for the United States Environmental Protection Agency to order facilities to cease operations until they adhere to Clean Air Act standards.

At least 19 more facilities are planned for “Cancer Alley,” Daily Mail noted, and residents bear the biggest burden.

Sharon Lavigne, a 71-year-old resident of Welcome, said to Human Rights Watch, “We’re dying from inhaling the industries’ pollution. I feel like it’s a death sentence. Like we are getting cremated, but not getting burnt.”

Kaitlyn Joshua, who has had chronic asthma since childhood, was told by a doctor: “Kaitlyn, it’s where you live. It’s the air quality. You’re going to have to move out of there,” the news source reported.

Angie Roberts, 57, and a breast cancer survivor from St. James Parish, faces the added burden of autoimmune disorders like multiple sclerosis, potentially linked to the toxic emissions. “Who would want to live here now? I’m dying here,” Roberts said.

Stillbirths, infertility, and chronic sinus infections have also been reported, according to other accounts from residents.

Lake Lanier, waterslide, coaster, patrons, go sports, Lake Lanier, Lanier Island authority

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

March 15, 2024

Georgia To Debut First Waterslide Coaster At Lake Lanier This Spring

Georgia is ignoring the countless deaths and creepy tales surrounding Lake Lanier by debuting the state's first waterslide coaster this Spring.

State officials gathered together on Wednesday, March 13, for a steel-signing ceremony in celebration of the first–ever waterslide coaster in Georgia at Lanier Islands, Access WDUN reported. Their signatures on the ceremonial steel beam serve as a “good luck” on the remainder of the construction.

It’s a fast turnaround for the Apocalypso waterslide complex, situated within the newly revamped Fins Up! Falls at Lanier Islands. After beginning construction last month, the waterslide coaster is slated to open during the water park’s 2024 spring/summer season.

“I can’t think of a more appropriate thing, with the 62 years of history at this lake, to add Georgia’s largest water complex on Georgia’s largest lake,” Charles Burton, Executive Director of Lanier Islands Developmental Authority said. “It’s a great opportunity.”

Waterslide coasters are different from traditional waterslides in that they offer increased velocity, sharp turns, thrilling drops, and unique features that propel riders upwards rather than solely downwards. The Apocalypso is expected to extend over 418 feet and boast one of the most substantial drops of its caliber in the United States.

In addition to the waterslide coaster, Fins Up! Falls will also offer three additional water slides attached to the same tower to give parkgoers some variety to choose from. Slides include Serpentine Storm, which merges the high-banking rotations of a bowl with the rapid descent of a downward-spiraling flume, Dreamsicle Dive serves as a traditional closed and open tube waterslide experience, and Mago Mania will cater to guests seeking a lower-intensity waterslide experience with its aqua tube design that offers diverse slopes and slide paths.

Other features coming to the waterpark include a floating obstacle course, a floating lakeside buffer to offer easy access to the lake, and a cabana program offering VIP sections along the wave pool and beach. This is on top of the 11 waterslides and aquatic attractions the park already provides, including LandShark Landing, Camp Margaritaville, and License to Chill Snow Island.

“Our core purpose is to create happy places that make smiling faces,” Dale Kaetzel, President of Go Outdoors said. “And I can’t think of any better place to do that than right here at Lake Lanier Islands.”

The waterpark’s expansion comes despite the haunted tales and deaths that surround Lake Lanier. Reports show over 200 people have died at Lake Lanier between 1994 and 2022, with most of the deaths attributed to drownings.

In 2023, there were 39 reported drownings at Lake Lanier. The history of the lake includes displaced cemeteries and unmarked graves which have fueled rumors of the lake being haunted.

by Stacy Jackson

March 15, 2024

Candace Parker Unveils Free Outdoor Fitness Court In Atlanta

The Muscle Milk Fitness Court is a collaboration with Parker and the brand's initiative, called The Lifting Project, to encourage healthy living.

Atlanta has gained a brand-new outdoor fitness facility courtesy of seven-time WNBA All-Star Candace Parker’s collaboration with Muscle Milk’s cause-based initiative called The Lifting Project.

The Muscle Milk Fitness Court opened at D.H. Stanton Park March 13. It offers a safe space for community members to exercise and engage in circuit training suitable for all fitness levels.

“I think that Atlanta has given me so much,” Parker told Fox 5. “I think everyone can benefit from just having someplace to go to lift, to be healthy and to get in better shape.”

Muscle Milk’s project aims to make inner and outer strength more accessible through cause-based initiatives. The fitness court is an extension of this program.

This week, @Candace_Parker helped us announce that the Muscle Milk Fitness Court is officially open! We’re beyond thankful for her support and devotion to expanding access to fitness resources through The Lifting Project@CityofAtlanta @NatFitCampaign @Laureus_USA @blazesports pic.twitter.com/zh8CwORxqG
— MUSCLE MILK (@MuscleMilk) March 14, 2024

In June 2023, The Lifting Project enlisted Parker and the National Fitness Campaign to help communities nationwide embrace a healthy lifestyle. Muscle Milk invited exercisers to vote for the location of the new 24/7 fitness court. The three finalists were Los Angeles, Orlando, and Atlanta, due to population density and the need for accessible outdoor fitness.

Plans for the fitness court included approachable exercises designed for all levels to provide a full-body workout in minutes, seven zones for visitors to cycle through, including core, squats, lunges, upper body push/pull, agility circuits, and bend back strengthening.

“Working out and rebuilding muscle is an essential component of my routine every single day,” Parker said then. “Increasing access to effective fitness is incredibly important to me, so I couldn’t be happier to play a role in creating this Fitness Court for people to have a convenient space to break a sweat.”

Muscle Milk launched the cause-based Lifting Project in March 2022, with Parker as its partner. A press release from PepsiCo. announced the initiative along with another iteration of its “Own Your Strength” campaign. The brand spotlighted the basketball legend in its 360 consumer engagement campaign, highlighting “the challenges, new routines, commitments, and responsibilities that come with the passage of time, but also the opportunities to get better, grow stronger, demonstrate resilience and lead with strength every single day.”

The Lifting Project called upon fitness enthusiasts to enter a contest for a chance to become a certified strength trainer.

Black Americans, jos reports, unemployment

by Tiffany Trotter

March 15, 2024

Leave An Impression On Your Next Job Interviewer With These 4 Tips

Want to ace that next job interview? Read on.

Originally Published Jan. 26, 2021.

After weeks of searching online and applying for jobs, you’ve finally landed the big interview, and, of course, you want to get the job. Feeling anxious? You’re not alone. Job interviews are one of the most nerve-wracking parts of a job search. However, you don’t need to feel nervous or shy. The job interview is a chance for you to showcase your skills and accomplishments and demonstrate how you can bring value to any organization.

If you’re still feeling on the fence about your next job interview, here are four strategies to help you make a great impression and secure the role.

1. Build a Rapport With Your Interviewer

One thing to remember in any job interview is that it’s a conversation between you and your potential employer. By treating it as a conversation, you allow yourself to release some nervous energy and pressure that is often associated with job interviews. Build rapport with your interviewer by asking questions to get to know more about them and their role at the company and finding out what they are looking for in the ideal candidate.

2. Communicate Your Career Accomplishments

Here’s your chance to share all the career milestones and accomplishments you’ve achieved over the years as it relates to the role you are applying for. Talk about your career experiences and projects that are directly related to the new position. Share the things that get you excited about this role and where you think you will shine. And remember to make sure everything is related or can be tied back to your new role.

3. Ask Questions to Learn More About the Team and Your role

Many people don’t realize the job interview is not only a chance for the employer to meet you and decide if you’re the best candidate, but it’s aan opportunity for you to get to know them and determine whether the position and company are the right fit for you. It’s a two-way process. That means you should feel free to ask questions to learn more about the role, responsibilities, goals and expectations.

4. Demonstrate Your Value

This is a crucial strategy to standing out in an interview. By taking the time to share a strategic initiative or project you believe would help your team and the organization, you’re showing how invested you are in the role and that you are proactively looking at ways to bring value.

Remember to keep things in the scope of your role and how it relates to the organization.

Let’s face it, the job search process can be very challenging and sometimes frustrating, but if you’ve made it to the interview process, congrats! You’re on your way to securing your next career opportunity. Ensure you go into your interview with confidence, knowing your worth and value isn’t defined by a job—but by your ability to keep pushing forward.

Written by Tiffany Trotter

Ray J, tonic network, Raycon global, television, company, wireless, sound, Norwood

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

March 15, 2024

Ray J Sells Shares Of Raycon Global To Launch Television Network

Ray J has made a surprising business decision by selling his complete portfolio of Raycon Global shares to launch a television platform.

The music/television star and entrepreneur has exited his post at Raycon Global despite its $300 million in revenue, The Jasmine Brand reported. Insiders say the Love & Hip Hop star has his sights set on media expansion in the form of a massive entertainment platform dubbed Tronix Network.

The new television network was created from a $5 million investment and has Ray’s undivided attention. The father of two is focused on turning Tronix into the next dominating force in entertainment television and seeks to free himself from any other endeavors that would distract him.

Insiders are estimating Ray J’s potential gains from Raycon shares to fall between $35 to $45 million to possibly even upwards of $85 to $100 million. By selling his Raycon shares, Ray J can secure more funding for Tronix and focus his efforts on his newest business venture.

“This isn’t merely about transitioning from one venture to another; it’s about seizing control of destiny’s helm and steering it towards his ultimate vision,” a source said.

The “Wait A Minute” singer co-founded Raycon Global with Ray Lee to serve as a wireless audio company backed by influencers. There are debates over how much stake Ray J possesses, with reports ranging from 61% to between 30% – 40%. News of his Raycon departure comes on the heels of his wife Princess Love filing for divorce from the singer for a fourth time.

The pair tied the knot in Los Angeles in August 2016 and went on to welcome their daughter Melody, 5, and son Epik, 4. When announcing their split in an Instagram post shared last month, Love said the former couple will “remain committed to co-parenting our children and maintaining a positive and supportive family dynamic.”