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Kids World, Best of DMV Awards, African American Heritage Festival, Free Summer Concerts. Details and More Inside of Community’s Choice

African American Heritage Festival

The 32nd Annual African American Heritage Festival is August 2nd at Metz Middle School.  It’s hosted by the African American Foundation of Manassas City and Prince William County.  www.aahf.com

Best of the DMV 2025 Award

Celebrate the outstanding businesses and individuals across the region.  Nominate your favorite for the Washington Informer’s Best of the DMV 2025 Award.  The deadline is July 31stwww.washingtoninformer.com

Free Summer Concerts @ Strathmore

Make summer unforgettable. Join the Stathmore for its free outdoor summer concerts.  Performances are every Wednesday with interactive concerts for kids on Thursdays. www.strathmore.org

YWCA Career Support

Do you need help with your resume or sharpening your interview skills?  The YWCA offers employment skills and career development support for DC residents.  www.ywcanca.org

Bernie Bates Golf Classic

Swing for a good cause.  The 24th Annual Bernie Bates Memorial Scholarship Golf Classic is August 15th at Old Hickory Golf Club in Woodbridge.  www.blbinc.org

Prince George’s Child Support

The Prince George’s County Child Support Administration is hosting its 3rd Expungement Fair August 15th at the Temple Hills Office.  www.maryland.gov

Kids World

Get the kids ready for a fun time.  The Downtown DC Business Improvement District is hosting its Annual Kids World Festival July 26th and 27th at Franklin Park. 

Atlas Festival 2026

The application process is now open for Atlas Intersections Festival 2026.  The deadline to apply is August 15th at 5pm.  www.atlasarts.org

Teens Charged in Series of Armed Robberies at Bethesda Liquor Store

Two teenagers are facing charges in connection with a string of armed robberies at a beer and wine store in Bethesda, Maryland, according to DC News Now.

The Montgomery County Department of Police says the suspects entered the store on two separate occasions on July 8th and 9th. They threatened an employee and stole cash before fleeing.

Surveillance footage helped investigators identify the teens, who were arrested during a third attempted robbery.

Both suspects are now in custody at a youth facility and have been charged with armed robbery and robbery.

Free Festival For Kids

Get the kids ready for two days of non-stop fun and excitement right in the heart of DC.  Kids World is making a return to Franklin Park.  My guest this morning has all the details. My guest is Ebony Walton – Director of Marketing and Communications for Downtown DC Business Improvement District

Kids World is back by popular demand.   Downtown DC Business Improvement District free two-day festival is returning July 26th and 27th to Franklin Park.  Kids Work features one-of-a-kind installations and a mix of new and returning programming including superheroes, a bubble garden and exciting activities.

REGISTER HERE

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Lauryn Hill Breaks Silence on Essence Festival Delay: “I’m Involved in Every Detail Because It Matters”

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Lauryn Hill is setting the record straight after fans were left confused and disappointed by a two-hour delay at her headlining set during the 2025 Essence Festival in New Orleans. Originally scheduled to perform at 12:30 a.m., Hill didn’t take the stage until around 2:30 a.m., playing to a significantly thinned-out crowd.

Taking to Instagram, the Grammy-winning artist thanked Essence Festival organizers for owning up to the delay and used the moment to share a deeper message about her commitment to her craft.

“Family, let me address a few things,” Hill wrote. “I am involved in every aspect of what it takes to put on my shows, because it requires THAT much involvement to protect the integrity of my message and the quality of what I do.”

She explained that her hands-on approach spans everything from music arrangement and rehearsals to stage design and production. “I rehearse and arrange the music diligently with my band,” she continued. “I am involved in every aspect of design, preparation, and production of my shows while also being a parent, grandparent, and steward to my immediate family and community.”

Hill also touched on how she strives to create meaningful performances and challenge divisive narratives, even if it means facing setbacks like production delays, something that has impacted her shows in the past.

The Essence Festival team publicly acknowledged that the delay was not Hill’s fault, praising her legacy and the dedication she brings to every performance.

Despite the challenges, Hill remains committed to giving fans an authentic and intentional experience on her own terms

AMP Collective Launches TONE at Target Amid DEI Backlash Concerns

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AMP is stepping into the personal care space with the launch of its new brand, TONE, now available at Target stores nationwide. The collective, featuring creators like Duke DennisKai CenatFanumAgent 00ChrisNxtDoor and ImDavisss, is backing products that are fresh, effective, and reflect the vibe of their diverse audience.

The timing of this launch has stirred up some debate. Many critics have raised eyebrows at the optics, especially since Target recently scaled back some of its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Despite this pushback, AMP is determined to cut through the concerns and connect with a broader Gen Z audience as they roll out nationally.

In a press release, Kai Cenat said, “We really saw a gap in the shelves for a new brand to break through — and for a brand that is fresh and represents who we and our community are. Products that don’t just look good but actually work and smell great.”

His AMP co-founder Davis added, “For us, it’s really an opportunity to make a brand for the products that we want to be using and wearing every day.”

With Target looking to win back younger shoppers and AMP expanding beyond social media, this collaboration is one to watch, even if it’s sparking conversation for more than just the scent.

Outside… But on a Budget: 6 Free DMV Events

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Coming home from university on the hunt for a job, I’ve realized I have to stop spending money every time I step out the door. I’m a foodie and love getting brunch with my girlfriends, but with the way I’m going, I’m about to eat a hole through my wallet. If you’re also trying to save but still want to have fun this summer, here are 6 free events that won’t cost you a thing (yes, links included ).

1. Sundown Salutations – Washington, DC

Every Sunday from 7–8 PM, the LINE Hotel hosts Sundown Salutations, a free rooftop yoga session with sunset views. Bring your mat, grab a spot early, and enjoy the chill vibes (and free water).
👉🏾 RSVP here


2. Glenstone Museum – Potomac, MD

Art, nature, and architecture all in one place? The Glenstone Museum is a peaceful escape from the city, offering both indoor and outdoor exhibits. Admission is free, but timed-entry passes go fast; book ahead!
👉🏾 Reserve your spot


3. Pressure Night at SoBe – Lanham, MD

Trying to level up from the two-step? Every Thursday at 7 PM, SoBe Restaurant and Lounge hosts line dancing classes for all skill levels. Come ready to move, meet people, and maybe discover your new favorite hobby.
No RSVP needed, just good energy and comfy shoes.


4. Brookside Gardens – Wheaton, MD

About 40 minutes from DC, Brookside Gardens is a beautiful spot for a solo stroll, date night, or even a proposal. With themed gardens (Japanese, aquatic, rose gardens, and more), it’s a peaceful, scenic trip worth taking.
👉🏾 Plan your visit


5. Movies on the Potomac – National Harbor, MD

From May to September, catch free outdoor movies at National Harbor. Family-friendly flicks, cult classics, and more are screened by the water. Bring your blanket or lawn chair and settle in by 7 PM.
👉🏾 Movie schedule + details


6. Bingo Night at Hi-Lawn – Washington, DC

Every Wednesday at 7 PM, Hi-Lawn on the Union Market rooftop turns into a bingo hotspot. It’s fun, it’s free, and the rooftop views don’t hurt either. Come with friends or fam, or both.
👉🏾 RSVP here


You don’t have to spend big to enjoy the DMV. Whether you’re into yoga, gardens, or movies under the stars, there’s something free waiting for you to pull up.

Know of another free event we should check out? Tag us @WHUR96.3 or drop it in the comments!

-Christa M

Love Island USA Faces Reckoning Over Racist Remarks

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Jeremiah Brown, one of this season’s contestants on Love Island USA, is speaking out after two Islanders were removed from the villa for using racial slurs.

Cierra Ortega was recently let go from the show after old social media posts resurfaced, showing her using offensive language. Not long after, fellow Islander Yulissa Escobar also left the show under similar circumstances.

Jeremiah addressed the situation publicly, calling out the use of racial slurs and emphasizing the importance of accountability, even in a dating competition. “I don’t condone no type of racial slurs,” he said, “That racial stuff is weird to me. I have been dealing with that my whole life. Racial stuff is never cool,” he added.

The back-to-back departures have sparked serious conversations online about racism, cultural sensitivity, and what it means to be held responsible for past behavior, especially in a public setting.

New episodes of Love Island USA air six days a week on Peacock. The season 7 finale is set for July 13.

Sean “Diddy” Combs Guilty On 2 Counts Not Guilty On Most Serious Charges

(Wednesday, July 2, 2025) – A jury of 8 men and four women delivered Sean “Diddy” Combs his fate today finding him guilty of prostitution related charges, but acquitted the music mogul of the more serious offenses of sex trafficking and racketeering.

The mixed verdict came on day three of deliberations and after jurors yesterday told the judge in the case they were not able to reach a consensus on the racketeering charge. The judge ordered them back behind closed doors to deliberate more and after less than an hour today a verdict was reached.

Combs was convicted of flying people around the country, including his then girlfriends and paying male sex workers to engage in sexual encounters with them, a violation of the federal Mann Act.

While found innocent of the most serious charges where he could have faced life in prison, Combs still faces up to 10 years on each of the two lesser offenses when he is sentenced.

The judge must now decide whether or not Combs should be released from prison while he awaits sentencing. His attorneys are hoping that will be the case. But prosecutors argue Combs should remain behind bars.

Preparing For College

It’s all about getting your high school grad college ready.  My guest this morning helps students with the essentials they need to succeed in college.  She’s bringing her Collegiate Trunk tour to the DMV and joins me this morning with all the details. My guest is Terisa Griffin – President of Better Love Yourself

Get your high school grad college ready.  The Better Love Yourself Collegiate College Tour is coming to Surrattsville High School in Clinton July 12th. For more information go here:  www.betterloveyourself.com

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Jury Deliberates Second Day in Sean “Diddy” Combs Federal Sex Trafficking and Racketeering Trial

Jury members are now on their second day of deliberations in the high-profile trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, who is facing serious charges of racketeering and sex trafficking.

As they continue their discussions, the jury has asked for clarification on the drug distribution charges, which are central to the government’s case against him. Prosecutors claim that Combs used his fame, wealth, and influence to manipulate and coerce women, often his girlfriends, into sexual encounters, sometimes involving drugs and an imbalance of power.

This trial has captured the public’s attention, with many people watching closely to see how the case unfolds. The prosecution argues that Combs ran a criminal operation disguised as a glamorous lifestyle. They describe his relationships as not just problematic but criminal, marked by exploitation and coercion. On the flip side, Combs’ defense team strongly rejects these allegations, insisting that any sexual relationships were consensual.

They argue that the case against him relies on unreliable witnesses and circumstantial evidence. If convicted, Combs could face a lengthy prison sentence of anywhere from 15 years to life.

During deliberations, there was a brief pause due to concerns about the ability of one juror to follow legal instructions, but by the end of the day, it seemed the jury was back on track and continuing their discussions.

The outcome of this trial could have wide-ranging effects, not only on Combs’ reputation but also on ongoing conversations about power dynamics and abuse within the entertainment industry. The jury is set to reconvene tomorrow to continue their deliberations.

Taraji P. Henson and Cedric The Entertainer to Star in August Wilson’s Joe Turner’s Come and Gone on Broadway

According to BET, Taraji P. Henson is making her highly anticipated Broadway debut in a new production of August Wilson’s Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, starring alongside Cedric “The Entertainer.”

Directed by the legendary Debbie Allen, the play is set in a Pittsburgh boarding house during the Great Migration and explores themes of identity, displacement, and self-discovery. Henson and Cedric will portray Bertha and Seth Holly, the married couple who run the boarding house. The revival is slated to open in spring 2026 and will mark a major return to the stage for both stars.

This milestone comes after Henson took a public pause from acting, citing frustrations with unequal pay and industry inequities. Her return signals not just a personal comeback but a commitment to powerful storytelling that centers Black voices and history.

Teachers Festival, College Trunk Tour, Summer Concerts, and more Free Events Inside Community’s Choice

Teacher Festival

Be a part of the celebration.  Come out July 12th @ 8pm for the Teachers Festival Inc. 5th Annual Awards Night Fundraiser honoring educators in the DMV.  www.teachersfest.com

College Trunk Tour

Get your high school grad college ready.  The Better Love Yourself Collegiate College Tour is coming to Surrattsville High School in Clinton July 12thwww.betterloveyourself.com

Prince George’s Economic Development Corp.

Heads up for transitioning federal professionals.  The Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation is hosting an Entrepreneurship Fair July 16th at Bowie State University.  www.pgcedc.com

Summer Concert Series

The Free Summer Concert Series returns to National Museum of the Marine Corps.  Performances are every Thursday thru August 28thwww.marineheritage.org

Housing Counseling

Need help with a rental or home issue?  Housing Counseling Services is hosting free webinars throughout the month of July for people looking to rent, buy, or keep their housing in the DC Metro area. www.housingetc.org

PG Schools Summer Meals

The Prince George’s County Free Summer Meals Program runs from July 7th thru August 8th at 16 open sites. Breakfast and lunch are available to all children 18 and younger.  www.pgcps.org

Alpha Golf Tournament

Mark your calendar.  Join the Kappa Epsilon Lambda Education Foundation, Inc.  for their Golf Tournament August 22nd at Joint Base Andrews Airforce Base.    www.kelef1906.org

WHUR PSAs

Do you have a non-profit you want WHUR to spotlight? Send the details to Renee Nash at rnash@whur.com at least three weeks before your event.

Free Shredding and Food Drive

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WHUR and Briar Patch Shredding and Recycling are teaming up again to help you clear out the clutter while also helping our neighbors in need.  The call to action is simply.  Joining me with all the details is my special guest, Sharifa Freeman – CEO of Briar Patch Shredding and Recycling

WHUR and Briar Patch Shredding and Recycling – Community Shred and Canned Food Drive is this Saturday, June 28th from 9am to 12pm.  Bring up to 4 boxes of unwanted documents plus you can bring your unwanted electronics and we will recycle them for free. We ask that you bring some non-perishable food to help feed needy families and children for the summer. For more information go here:  www.whur.com

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Know Your Status

It’s a feel good Friday and this morning we want to make sure you know your status.  Today is National HIV AIDs Testing Day.  My guest says AIDS remains an important issue impacting our community.  My guest this morning is Sharon Coker – Executive Director of SLK Health

National HIV Testing Day is Friday, June 27th.  SLK Health Services Corporation is hosting free HIV Testing from 10amto 4pm at the Walgreens at 9810 Apollo Drive in Largo.  There will be free dood and giveaways. For more information go here: www.slkhealthcorp.org

Listen to this mornings segment here:

POLITICAL ROUNDTABLE: ISRAEL-IRAN CONFLICT, NYC DEM PRIMARY, WHAT’S WRONG WITH THE DEMOCRATS?

RESOURCES: “Visibly Invisible: The Black Women of the Congressional Black Caucus” https://uwpbooks.com/product/visibly-invisible-the-black-women-of-the-congressional-black-caucus/

A Night Out For Fathers and Daughters

Get ready for a heartwarming event of twirls, smiles and unforgettable memories.  This morning we are spotlighting a dance for fathers and their special little ladies.  It’s called the Daddy and Diva Dance.  It’s happening this weekend.  My guest this morning is Krystal Oriadha – Prince George’s County Councilmember District 7

The Daddy and Diva Dance is June 27th from 6pm to 8pm at Oakcrest Community Center in Capitol Heights.  It’s a chance for dads to dust off your dancing shoes and grab your special little lady for a day of fun and lasting memories.  Register now at bit.ly/D7Daddyanddiva

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Connecting Black Healthcare Workers

It’s a Wellness Wednesday and this morning it’s all about Men’s Health.  There’s a Black Health Conference and 40 under 40 Awards Gala taking place later this month right here in DC. My guest this morning is Dr. Duclas Charles – Founder of Black Health Connect

Black Health Connect Conference is June 26th – June 30th  at the Le Meridien Washington, DC, The Madison 1777 15th Street, NW. For more information go here: www.bhccon.com

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Jussie Smollett Announces Engagement in Heartfelt Surprise, Marking a New Chapter

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Jussie Smollett’s surprise engagement has captured the attention of fans, family, and fellow entertainers alike. The actor and singer revealed the news through a heartfelt post on social media, offering a glimpse into a deeply personal moment. The proposal, kept private until now, reflects a relationship that has grown quietly and meaningfully outside of the public spotlight.

This announcement marks a significant milestone in Smollett’s journey, both personally and publicly. Once celebrated for his role as Jamal Lyon on Empire, Smollett’s career took a sharp turn in 2019 after he reported being the victim of a hate crime. This claim later led to legal battles, public scrutiny, and a divided response. Despite the controversy and challenges that followed, he has continued to create, advocate, and live authentically.

Now, by sharing his engagement, Smollett signals a renewed chapter grounded in love, resilience, and hope. The outpouring of support highlights a broader cultural embrace of LGBTQ+ relationships and the transformative power of healing and connection.

Teeing It Up For a Great Cause

Get out the golf clubs.  The ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority are hitting the greens for their 2025 Pearls on the Green Golf Tournament. My guest this morning is Dr. Angela L. Williams – President Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Iota Lambda Omega Chapter

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Iota Lambda Omega Chapter in partnership with the Pearl Foundation presents the 2025 Pearls on the Green Gold Tournament and Day Part-tee June 25th at the Hobbit’s Glen Golf Club.  For more information go here: www.pearlfoundation.org

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Middle East on Edge: U.S. Joins Israeli Strikes on Iran, Trump Sparks Backlash

Israel’s military launched targeted strikes on a nuclear research facility in Isfahan, killing three senior Iranian commanders and damaging centrifuge production sites. The operation aimed to disrupt Iran’s nuclear program. In response, Iran fired drones and missiles, most of which were intercepted by Israeli defense systems. Casualties have been reported on both sides. With talks in Geneva stalling, tensions are escalating, and the prospect of U.S. military involvement is growing.

President Donald Trump confirmed that the U.S. had carried out strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites, Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan, aligning with Israel’s broader campaign to dismantle Iran’s nuclear capabilities. The U.S. reportedly used stealth bombers and bunker-busting munitions to hit fortified targets, marking a major escalation. Iran has vowed retaliation, raising concerns about a broader regional conflict.

Trump posted the following statement on Truth Social:

“We have completed our very successful attack on the three Nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. All planes are now outside of Iran air space. A full payload of BOMBS was dropped on the primary site, Fordow. All planes are safely on their way home. Congratulations to our great American Warriors. There is not another military in the World that could have done this. NOW IS THE TIME FOR PEACE! Thank you for your attention to this matter.”

The post drew swift backlash. Former Republican strategist Rick Wilson criticized Trump for escalating tensions and accused him of being manipulated by Iranian interests. Wilson mocked Trump’s ongoing quest for a Nobel Peace Prize, calling him “TACO Donnie,” and warned that his statements could complicate diplomacy and embolden Iran at the negotiating table.

Homeownership In DC

Working to make homeownership more accessible.  My guest this morning has details about an event to provide the ends and outs of home buying and home preservation in DC. My guest is Tikisa Wilson, Director of Single Family Programs – DC Housing Finance Agency

DC Housing Finance Agency is hosting a homeownership Fair Saturday, June 21st from 10am to 3pm at the RISE Demonstration Center @ 2730 MLK Avenue, SE DC. For more information go here: www.dchfa.org

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Actor Derek Dixon Sues Tyler Perry for $260M Over Alleged Sexual Harassment and Assault

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Actor Derek Dixon has filed a $260 million lawsuit against media mogul Tyler Perry, accusing him of years of sexual harassment, assault, and professional retaliation. The civil suit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, claims Perry used his power and influence in the entertainment industry to coerce and exploit Dixon.

According to the lawsuit, Perry allegedly promised career opportunities in exchange for sexual compliance. Dixon accuses Perry of escalating the misconduct over time, including sending inappropriate text messages, groping, and committing multiple acts of sexual assault. The complaint outlines a pattern of abuse tied to Perry’s position of authority, describing a hostile and coercive working environment.

Dixon is seeking damages for emotional distress, attorneys’ fees, and punitive damages for what he calls repeated violations of his rights and safety. In response, a representative for Perry has categorically denied the allegations, calling the lawsuit a baseless “scam.”

As the case unfolds, it adds another high-profile name to the ongoing national conversation around sexual misconduct and abuse of power in Hollywood. Legal proceedings are ongoing, and both sides are expected to present further evidence in the coming weeks. Perry has not made a direct public statement on the matter as of yet.

Connecting Black Healthcare Workers

It’s a Wellness Wednesday and this morning it’s all about Men’s Health.  There’s a Black Health Conference and 40 under 40 Awards Gala taking place later this month right here in DC. My guest this morning is Dr. Duclas Charles – Founder of Black Health Connect

Black Health Connect Conference is June 26th – June 30th  at the Le Meridien Washington, DC, The Madison 1777 15th Street, NW. For more information go here: www.bhccon.com

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Prince William County Juneteenth Festival

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Celebrating history, culture, and freedom.  Prince William County is hosting its Juneteenth and Me Festival  this Thursday.  My guest this morning has all the details to make sure you can take part in this momentous event. My guest is Maria Burgos, Director of the Prince William County Office of Equity and Inclusion

Juneteenth & Me Festival hosted by Prince William County is June 19th from 4pm to pm at the Pfitzner Stadium Complex at 7 County Complex in Woodbridge, VA 22192.  WHUR will be on hand for all the festivities with prizes and giveaways. For more information go here: www.pwcgov.org

Listen to this mornings segment here:

R. Kelly Reportedly Overdosed in Prison and Rushed to Hospital, His Lawyer Says

R. Kelly’s attorney has raised new concerns about the singer’s safety behind bars, claiming he suffered a medical crisis after being given an overdose of medication while in solitary confinement.

According to documents reviewed by AllHipHop, the incident occurred just two days after Kelly’s legal team filed motions accusing the Bureau of Prisons of endangering his life. Shortly after, the 58-year-old was placed in isolation and administered extra medication. By the next morning, he collapsed in his cell, reportedly experiencing dizziness, vision loss, and fainting. He was rushed to Duke University Hospital, where doctors determined the dosage he received could have been fatal. They also discovered blood clots in his legs and lungs.

His attorney claims prison officials not only gave him a dangerously high dose but also denied him a needed surgery. The legal team further alleges that Kelly is facing ongoing threats, including harassment from prison staff and targeted violence by white supremacists.

Free Music Festival in DC

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Mark your calendar for a fun filled free event this weekend in DC.  It’s the 2025 Home Rule Music Festival and it all goes down at the Parks at Walker Reed. My guest is Charvis Campbell – Executive Director, Home Rule Music and Film

 The 2025 Home Rule Music Festival is Saturday, June 21st at the Parks at Walker Reed.  Gates open at 12pm.  The event will feature music, art, crafts, food, and lots of fun for the entire family.  For more information go here: www.homerulemusicfestival.com

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Summer Cook-Out, HIV Testing Day, AKA Golf Tournament and More Inside of Community’s Choice

End of School Cook-Out

Start the summer with excitement and joy. Come out for the End of the School Year Youth Cook-out June 29th at Anacostia Park in SE.  It’s free for students, families, and educators.

HIV Testing Day

Know your status.  Know your power.  Join SLK Health Services Corporation June 27th for National HIV Testing Day at the Walgreens in Largo.  www.slkhealthcorp.org

PG Summer In the Parks

Enjoy summer concerts, theatre, and movies across Prince George’s County.  Check out the upcoming free outdoor events at Prince George’s Parks and Recreation.  www.pgparks.com

Black Health Connect

Get into a health state of mind, body, and soul.  Men come out to the Black Health Connect Conference June 26th thru 30th at the Le Meridien Washington in NW.  www.bhccon.com

AKA Golf Tournament

Get your swing on.  Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority presents their 2025 Pearls on the Green Gold Tournament and Day Part-tee June 25th at the Hobbit’s Glen Golf Club.  www.pearlfoundation.org

Housing Rights

Housing discrimination on the basis of sex is prohibited in all aspects of the housing market.  If you believe you have been a victim, contact Housing Counseling Inc.  www.housingetc.org

Angel’s Wing

Angel’s Wing Inc. is joining the fight against domestic violence.  Learn how you can support.  www.angels-wing.org

Howard University Alum and Former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis Dies at 52

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Howard University alum and former BET & MTV VJ Ananda Lewis has passed away at the age of 52, her sister Lakshmi confirmed in a heartfelt Facebook post accompanied by a black-and-white portrait of Lewis. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

A proud graduate of Howard University, Lewis was widely respected not just for her beauty, but for her intellect, authenticity, and fearless spirit. In a past interview with Angela Stribling, she radiated pride:

“I’ve got my HU shirt on. Yes, I’m feeling good in my body too. Proud Howard University grad.”

She was celebrated by peers for being more than just a pretty face.

“In this world of entertainment, people kind of rely on their looks. And you’ve never been one to do that,” Stribling noted. Lewis responded, “My grandma… always said: ‘Pretty is as pretty does. Beauty is skin deep.’ We got applauded for what was in here [pointing to her head and heart], not just for how we looked.”

Lewis also opened up candidly about facing serious health challenges and how she approached them with faith and determination:

“Even to women who’ve recently been diagnosed… the fear is very real. But there’s nothing to be afraid of. All you have to do is your part. God has you.”

When doctors gave her a grim prognosis if she chose not to follow a specific treatment, Lewis recalled:

“He said probably three years at the most. And I thought, You don’t know me. That gives me time to figure something out… You’re not going to tell me I’m going to die. Watch what happens.”

“You control the outcome… You doing your work changes everything.”

Fans, friends, and former colleagues are mourning the loss and sharing tributes to a woman who inspired with her wisdom, grit, and grace.

Celebrating The Caribbean Culture

June is Caribbean-American Heritage Month and there are big celebrations planned this weekend in Montgomery County. My guest is Althea Grey-McKenzie – Chair of the National Caribbean-American Heritage Month Steering Committee

The 3rd Annual Caribbean-American Heritage Celebration and Resource Fair is Saturday, June 14th at the Marian Fryer Town Plaza in Wheaton. For more information go here: www.cahcrf.caccegwan.org

Listen to this mornings segment here:

‘Clean Sweep’: RFK Jr. Fires Entire CDC Immunization Advisory Group

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According to NPR, the Department of Health and Human Services is removing all 17 members of a key Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advisory group, including those on the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the sweeping change, stating that new committee members will be appointed to restore public confidence in vaccine science and ensure a focus on public health and evidence-based medicine.

“A clean sweep is necessary to reestablish public confidence in vaccine science,” Kennedy said in a statement. “ACIP’s new members will prioritize public health and evidence-based medicine. The committee will no longer function as a rubber stamp for industry profit-taking agendas.”

The move has drawn sharp criticism from the American Medical Association, which argues that the decision undermines public trust and disrupts a long-standing, transparent process that has helped save countless lives.