NEW YORK (AP) — Lawyers for Donald Trump’s company pleaded not guilty to tax crime charges Thursday, along with the Trump Organization’s longtime finance chief. It is the first criminal case arising from a two-year investigation into the former president’s company. Trump Organization CFO Allen Weisselberg was arraigned a day after a grand jury returned an indictment charging him and Trump’s company with tax crimes. Trump himself was not charged. The case against Weisselberg and the Trump Organization involves fringe benefits given to employees, like the use of apartments, cars and school tuition. Weisselberg’s lawyers say he will fight the charges, and there’s no indication he is willing to cooperate.
Black Girl Magic. Meet Gabby Thomas, the Harvard alum who majored in neurobiology, is currently working in a master’s degree in epidemiology/health care management at Texas. S
The newly crowned American 200m champion, finished with a blazing fast 21.61 seconds.
She not only beat the meet record set by her idol, Allyson Felix, but also made her the second-fastest woman ever in the event, trailing only two times posted by the late Florence Griffith Joyner aka FloJo.
“I blacked out during that race,” the 24-year-old said with a laugh. “I know beforehand I wanted to focus on accelerating through the first 100 and keep the momentum — come off the turn feeling really good.” reported NBC Sports.
The former NCAA indoor champion had a health scare just before the trials and wondered if she would even run at all. She was dealing with a hamstring injury and had it checked out. Doctors ordered an MRI on her lower back, where they discovered what turned out to be a benign tumor in her liver.
“At first I wasn’t too worried about it, but the more I kept talking to doctors they kept saying cancer,” Thomas recounted. “Fortunately, they found out it was benign just a couple of days before I left. I remember telling God that if I am healthy, I am winning trials.”
Now, her road to a possible gold medal could also be combined with a quest for a record that has long been out of reach. Flo-Jo’s world record is 21.34. She also ran 21.56 on her way to gold 33 years ago, at the 1988 Seoul Olympics.
“I am still in shock. I can’t believe I put up that time,” Thomas said. “Definitely has changed how I view myself as a runner.”
About chasing one of the most iconic records in the book: “I don’t want to say no,” Thomas said. “I don’t want to put a limit on myself. I’m not going to say it’s unattainable.”
For fueling her track passion, she can thank Felix, the five-time Olympian who was a lane over from her in the 200m final. (Felix finished fifth.)
In today’s society we have no room for racism or promoting hate. Emory University announced the Atlanta campus will be renaming some buildings due to who they honor.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that “the university’s Longstreet-Means residence hall will be renamed Eagle Hall. Augustus Baldwin Longstreet, president of Emory College from 1839 to 1848 and namesake of the building, was a strong advocate of slavery and secession.”
Emory University President Gregory Fenves said, “It is inappropriate for his name to continue to be memorialized in a place of honor on our campus.”
Other name changes are set to come on the Oxford Campus, where they will honor Superior Court Judge Horace J, Johnson Jr. Johnson was the first Black Superior Court judge to serve in the Alcovy Judicial Circuit in Newton and Walton counties. Johnson also helped break the color barrier in public school in the 1960s.
On June 17, Emory held a Juneteenth ceremony in which it apologized to a Black medical school applicant who was denied admission in 1959 because of his race. These actions came after a protest for the death of George Floyd.
Fenves also said, “By understanding our history and expanding the Emory story to include voices, perspectives, and contributions that were overlooked or silenced, we are creating a deeper understanding of who we are and all we can achieve as a university.”
Four-time Olympic Gold Medalist Serena Williams will not be participating in the Tokyo Olympics later this summer.
According to ESPN, during her pre-Wimbledon news conference on June 27, the tennis star icon said, “I’m actually not on the Olympic list, not that I’m aware of. If so, then I shouldn’t be on it.”
Williams did not go into much detail, “There’s a lot of reasons that I made my Olympic decision. I don’t really want to — I don’t feel like going into them today. Maybe another day.”
She also added, “I have not thought about it. In the past [the Olympics] has been a wonderful place for me. I really haven’t thought about it, so I’m going to keep not thinking about it.”
Naomi Osaka, who earlier this year withdrew from several tournaments, confirmed that she is excited to play at the Tokyo Olympics.
By MELISSA LAMBARENA of NerdWallet
A travel credit card can put vacation goals on track, but catching the travel bug isn’t a good enough reason to apply for one. You’ll need to go places, use it for spending and also practice healthy account management habits to get the most value out of it. Otherwise, the high interest rate and potential annual fees can creep into your budget and your fun. As you gear up to travel in the COVID-19 vaccine era, find out what you need to know about travel credit cards before chasing points and miles.
LONDON (AP) — Princes William and Harry have unveiled a statue of their mother, Princess Diana, on what would have been her 60th birthday in a small — and brief — ceremony at London’s Kensington Palace.. Diana’s family joined the two brothers for Thursday’s ceremony at the palace’s Sunken Garden, a place in which the princess once found solace. It was the first time the brothers have appeared in public together since the funeral of their grandfather, Prince Philip. The brothers later issued a joint statement in which they described their mother’s strength and character as “qualities that made her a force for good around the world.”
We love to see change in our country. This past Thursday The Johnson County Board of Supervisors in Iowa City, Iowa, voted unanimously to change the county’s name to that of a Black professor, a pioneer in education.
The county is now named in honor of Lulu Merle Johnson. It was originally named for Richard Mentor Johnson, a long-time slave owner who took credit for the murder of Shawnee Chief Tecumseh at the Battle of Thames in 1805, according to CBS News.
“We recognize that place-names embody the identity and cultural values of a place. For that reason, it is important to establish an eponym of Johnson County who represents what is important to the people who live here,” Lisa Green-Douglass, Board of Supervisors member, tells the television news outlet. “It has been a privilege to chair the Johnson County Eponym Committee, and to be able to recognize, honor, and establish Dr. Lulu Merle Johnson as the County’s official eponym.”
The Board of Supervisors voted today to recognize Lulu Merle Johnson as the official eponym of #JohnsonCountyIA.
— Johnson County, Iowa (@JohnsonCountyIA) June 24, 2021
Johnson was a part of the first HBCU Cheyney State University in Pennsylvania. She was considered a pioneer in both the state of Iowa, and in the development of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. She served as the dean of women as well as led history classes.
She became the first Black woman to earn a Ph. D. at the University of Iowa, despite facing racism and sexism from students and school administration, the report notes.
“Notwithstanding such discrimination, students of color like Ms. Johnson shared their brilliance with our institution and contributed to making the UI who we are today,” Iowa’s interim Chief Diversity Officer Lena M. Hill tells CBS News.
By KEN SWEET AP Business Writer
NEW YORK (AP) — American Express is upping the benefits — and the fee — on its flagship Platinum Card this month. The company is trying to hold on to its well-to-do customers who are returning to their pre-pandemic lifestyles of traveling, dining out, and shopping. The company will be adding a $200 a year hotel credit for prepaid bookings on AmEx’s Fine Hotels & Resorts or Hotel Collection properties. In addition, there will now be a $179 a year credit with CLEAR, the security verification service. The new benefits will come with a new annual fee of $695, up from the current fee of $550.
Arguably two of the best women rappers to ever do it, this is something fans have been dying to see.
Entertainment Weekly reported “Kim and Minaj have fired shots at each other over the years, with Kim releasing the 2011 song “Black Friday” as a nod to Minaj’s album Pink Friday. She’s called the rapper a “Lil’ Kim clone” and a “wannabe,” while Minaj’s “Stupid Hoe” and “Roman’s Revenge” are among the many songs thought to be diss tracks against Kim.”
As of 2018 Lil Kim had positive remarks about Minaj, so it seems there is a mutual respect from the two.
While some fans would prefer a Verzuz between Lil Kim and a rapper of her era such as Foxy Brown, many fans want this battle.
After the Recent Verzuz between Soulja Boy and Bow-Wow, it is safe to say Verzuz has been one of the most entertaining series of 2021.
LeVar Burton has not been shy about his desire to host Jeopardy. As we reported earlier in the year after the passing of long time host Alex Trebeck.
Since Alex Trebek’s passing, LeVar Burton has been very vocal about being the next host, including reposting a petition that calls for him to get the job.
While he was selected as the guest host, no official announcement has been made on who the full time host will be.
He told The New York Times, “It will hurt. I’m not going to lie. But if that happens, I will get over it. I will be fine. Remember: Everything happens perfectly and for a reason. That is my default. It’s all going to be OK. Because it always is.”
He added, “I feel like this is what I’m supposed to do. I have been watching Jeopardy! more or less every night of my life since Art Fleming was host. Jeopardy! is a cultural touchstone, and for a Black man to occupy that podium is significant.”
While LeVar would make an amazing host, Jeopardy executive producer Mike James said ““What we’re going to look for is the best candidate for the show. We’ve been very clear, and how we have approached the guest hosts is that we are going to not limit it to anyone based on anything. We’re going to look for the best people. That would be the ‘Jeopardy!’ way.”
During an interview with The Jasmine Brand, Nene Leakes revealed her husband was in the hospital. Her husband Gregg is recovering from surgery after his cancer returned.
“I’m sure he’ll be home in about a week or so,” she said. “He had to have a surgery. So his cancer did return.”
Leakes said it’s been “difficult” dealing with his latest bout of cancer.
“He’s super small,” she said. “If you’ve ever been around somebody who’s had cancer before, he’s different. He’s different.”
Gregg Leakes initial stage 3 colon cancer diagnosis was a story line during the 11th season of “RHOA” which aired from November 2018 to May 2019 reported the Jasmine Brand Reported.
The couple considered counseling to help their marriage as NeNe Leakes tried to adjust to being her husband’s caregiver during the reunion show for season 11.
Gregg Leakes also gave a health update, saying he was undergoing chemotherapy treatment.
“I’m a couple treatments away from radiation, then I go through a full battery of testing again to see if the cancer has in fact incubated and started to spread — and we’re hoping it hasn’t,” he said at the time.
Surprising turn of events today in the sexual assault case of actor-comedian Bill Cosby. He was released from a Pennsylvania state prison after the state supreme court overturned his 2018 conviction on a legal technicality. The man once known as America’s dad had been accused by dozens of women of drugging and sexually assaulting them over the course of his decades-long career. What’s behind today’s legal developments and what does it mean for shocked sexual assualt victims who has watched this case so closely?
(Wednesday, June 30, 2021) – A court victory today for Bill Cosby. Pennsylvania’s highest court has overturned his sex assault conviction. This after finding that an agreement with a previous prosecutor prevented him from being charged. The 83-year-old comedian has served more than two years in prison. He’s expected to be released soon.
People are flying again. With pandemic restrictions lifted across the country… air travel is experiencing a surge of passengers. Airlines are also seeing surge in extremely bad behavior at airport terminals and on the planes. What’s behind it? What’s being done about it and what could happening to you if you’re an out-of control passenger?
(Annapolis, MD) — A mother of a naval academy midshipman is dead after being hit with a stray bullet in Annapolis. WJZ is reporting officers responded just after midnight this morning and found the victim where she was pronounced dead at the scene. The woman was sitting on the patio of her hotel when she was struck. Police believe the shots came from Pleasant Street and that she was not the target of the shooting. The investigation is underway.
(Tuesday, June 29, 2021) – Olympian Gwen Berry says she stands by her statements and position Saturday to turn away from the American flag as the national anthem was played.
Berry, who earned a spot on the U.S. Olympic hammer throwing team in Eugene, Ore. over the weekend, says she felt like she was set-up. In a statement to the Associated Press, Berry said she was told the Star spangled Banner would play before the medalists walked out to the podium for the award ceremony. But instead the anthem played as the athletes were in their podium positions.
That’s when Berry turned, placed her hand on her waist, and held up a T-shirt with the wording “Activist Athlete” and put the shirt over her head. Berry later posted a picture of herself on Twitter with the caption, “Stop playing with me.”
For its part, a spokesperson for the USA Track and Field says the national anthem had been scheduled to play Saturday at 5:20pm. However, the music actually started at 5:25pm. The spokesperson maintains “we didn’t wait until the athletes were on the podium, adding the anthem is played every day according to a previously published schedule.”
For the past several weeks… Loudoun County, Virginia has found itself in the headlines, garnering national attention in the battle over culture issues. The school system is feeling a lot of heat from all sides regarding gender identity issues and Critical Race Theory. Racist flyers… also making appearances around the county last week. We talk to Phyllis Randall the Chair of the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors.
Phyllis Randall, Chair, Loudoun County Board of Supervisors
HUNTINGTOWN, Md. (AP) — Authorities say a man died while in the custody of deputies in Maryland. The Calvert County Sheriff’s Office says deputies responded to “a suspicious person breaking windows” on Saturday afternoon. They arrested Antoine Brooks of Huntingtown. The 31-year-old was taken to a shaded area where he waited to be transported. The sheriff’s office says force wasn’t used during the arrest. A preliminary investigation found that Brooks admitted to consuming a controlled dangerous substance while handcuffed. Deputies noticed “his breathing getting shallow and pulse getting faint” moments later. They performed medical assistance while waiting for an ambulance. Brooks was pronounced dead at a hospital.
(Surfside, FL) — The death toll in the condo collapse near Miami Beach is rising. Ten people are dead and 151 are still missing. Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said an investigation into the cause is underway. Levine Cava said their top priority is search and rescue, but stressed that these numbers are very fluid. Governor Ron DeSantis called it an “incredibly hazardous environment,” adding that the search will not stop until there’s a resolution. DeSantis noted it’s not going to take a day or two for investigators to find the root cause of the collapse.
Miami-Dade Assistant Fire Chief Ray Jadallah said personnel will begin utilizing heavy machinery to move debris. He noted they are still in search and rescue mode and they’re considering all options. Florida State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis said this is the largest deployment of taskforce resources in state history for an event that is not a hurricane.
Last night Queen Latifah accepted her Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2021 BET awards.
“In 2006, the cultural icon, born Dana Owens, became the first hip-hop artist to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She was one of the first major performers to have a presence on both the big and small screen, with slots on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Juice, Living Single, Set It Off, The Queen Latifah Show, Beauty Shop and more.” said Essence in a press release.
Not only a great actress, but Owens also was the first rapper ever to appear in a super bowl halftime show in 1997. A few of her albums include: All Hail the Queen, Nature of a Sista and Black Reign. Her song “U.N.I.T.Y” remains a fan favorite and won the 1995 Grammy for Best Rap Solo Performance.
She recently was in Girls Trip in 2017 alongside Set It Off co-star Jada Pinkett Smith, as well as stars in and co produces the show Equalizer.
A tribute of her songs was preformed by Rapsody, Monie Love, Lil Kim and MC Lyte paid tribute to Latifah with a medley of “Ladies First” and “U-N-I-T-Y.”
Her acceptance speech showed gratitude and thanks to many of the people who have helped her on her amazing journey.
“Thank you so much, everyone. Thank you, my sisters – y’all my sisters in the name of rap. You always have been. I’m so extremely moved that I don’t even know what to say. Let me just say that I want to thank God because God designed this whole thing to be this way,” an emotional Latifah, 51, began her acceptance speech.”
“There is no way that I could have had the parents that I was born to – my father, my mother [who died in 2018], who is still so much in me – my family, I love you – my siblings. My best friends who ride or die with me whether my face is on the dirt or I’m flying in the skies – they know me. And they’re there for me.”
“I want to thank BET for creating an outlet for beautiful blackness to thrive, to shine. When we couldn’t get played on the radio and other places; we couldn’t get our videos played. There was BET, that allowed us to be in our fullness and to shine. To this night, right now, right here – bless everybody and everyone in the audience for all your support. Black is beautiful. I was raised by strong black women. We can’t live without each other. Celebrate. Celebrate us so together we stand stronger.”
Latifah went on to praise Shakim Compere, her business partner in Flavor Unit Entertainment.
“Shakim, I thank you right now for keeping your promise to my mother, to always protect me. Thank you for always protecting me and loving me. I love you for that.”
She wrapped up by telling fans how much she appreciates their support of all aspects of her career, before sending a sweet message to her family.
“I’m gonna get off this stage, but I thank you so much for all of you, the fans for supporting every crazy-ass thing I’ve done through the years. And thank you for making Equalizer No. 1. Eboni, my love. Rebel, my love. Peace. Happy Pride!”
People Magazine reported on the award after the 2021 BET Awards.
We want to send a huge congrats to our very own Frank Ski after the hit song “WAP” wins BET’s Video Of The Year. The hit song came from a sample of Frank Ski’s Baltimore club hit “W****s In This House.”
“WAP” debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 as well as Video of The Year and Best Collaboration. The 5x platinum song would not be possible without the sample from our very own Frank Ski!
The 2021 BET Awards saw some familiar winners and ew faces, headlined by Jazmine Sullivan’s Album of The Year for Heaux Tales.
Album of the year:
After Hours – The Weeknd
Blame It on Baby – DaBaby
Good News – Megan Thee Stallion WINNER: Heaux Tales – Jazmine Sullivan
King’s Disease – Nas
Ungodly Hour – Chloe X Halle
Best female R&B / pop artist:
Beyoncé WINNER: H.E.R.
Jazmine Sullivan
Jhené Aiko
Summer Walker
SZA
Best male R&B / pop artist:
6lack
Anderson .Paak WINNER: Chris Brown
Giveon
Tank
The Weeknd
Best female hip hop artist:
Cardi B
Coi Leray
Doja Cat WINNER: Megan Thee Stallion
Latto
Saweetie
Best male hip hop artist:
DaBaby
Drake
J. Cole
Jack Harlow WINNER: Lil Baby
Pop Smoke
Best new artist:
Coi Leray
Flo Milli WINNER: Giveon
Jack Harlow
Latto
Pooh Shiesty
Best collaboration: WINNER: Cardi B featuring Megan Thee Stallion – “WAP”
DaBaby featuring Roddy Ricch – “Rockstar”
DJ Khaled featuring Drake – “Popstar”
Jack Harlow featuring DaBaby, Tory Lanez & Lil Wayne – “Whats Poppin (Remix)”
Megan Thee Stallion featuring DaBaby – “Cry Baby”
Pop Smoke featuring Lil Baby & DaBaby – “For the Night”
Best group:
21 Savage & Metro Boomin
Chloe X Halle
Chris Brown & Young Thug
City Girls
Migos WINNER: Silk Sonic
Dr. Bobby Jones best gospel/inspirational award:
Bebe Winans – “In Jesus Name”
CeCe Winans – “Never Lost”
H.E.R. – “Hold Us Together” WINNER: Kirk Franklin – “Strong God”
Marvin Sapp – “Thank You for It All”
Tamela Mann – “Touch From You”
BET HER award:
Alicia Keys featuring Khalid – “So Done”
Brandy featuring Chance the Rapper – “Baby Mama”
Bri Steves – “Anti Queen”
Chloe X Halle – “Baby Girl”
Ciara featuring Ester Dean – “Rooted” WINNER: SZA – “Good Days”
Viewer’s choice award:
Cardi B featuring Megan Thee Stallion – “WAP”
Chris Brown & Young Thug – “Go Crazy”
DaBaby featuring Roddy Ricch – “Rockstar”
DJ Khaled featuring Drake – “Popstar”
Drake featuring Lil Durk – “Laugh Now Cry Later”
Lil Baby – “The Bigger Picture” WINNER: Megan Thee Stallion featuring Beyoncé – “Savage (Remix)”
Silk Sonic – “Leave the Door Open”
Video of the year:
Cardi B – “Up” WINNER: Cardi B featuring Megan Thee Stallion – “WAP”
Chloe X Halle – “Do It”
Chris Brown & Young Thug – “Go Crazy”
Drake featuring Lil Durk – “Laugh Now Cry Later”
Silk Sonic – “Leave the Door Open”
Video director of the year:
Benny Boom WINNER: Bruno Mars & Florent Déchard
Cole Bennett
Colin Tilley
Dave Meyers
Hype Williams
Best international act:
Aya Nakamura (France) WINNER: Burna Boy (Nigeria)
Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
Emicida (Brazil)
Headie One (UK)
Wizkid (Nigeria)
Young T & Bugsey (UK)
Youssoupha (France)
Best movie:
Coming 2 America WINNER: Judas and the Black Messiah
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
One Night in Miami
Soul
The United States Vs. Billie Holiday
Best actress: WINNER: Andra Day
Angela Bassett
Issa Rae
Jurnee Smollett
Viola Davis
Zendaya
Best actor:
Aldis Hodge WINNER: Chadwick Boseman
Damson Idris
Daniel Kaluuya
Eddie Murphy
Lakeith Stanfield
Youngstars award:
Alex R. Hibbert
Ethan Hutchison
Lonnie Chavis WINNER: Marsai Martin
Michael Epps
Storm Reid
Sportswoman of the year award:
A’ja Wilson
Candace Parker
Claressa Shields WINNER: Naomi Osaka
Serena Williams
Skylar Diggins-Smith
Sportsman of the year award:
Kyrie Irving WINNER: Lebron James
Patrick Mahomes
Russell Westbrook
Russell Wilson
Stephen Curry
Good news for parents with youngsters who need some extra help catching up with their learning this summer. Educating Young Minds is offering free on-line tutoring, mentoring, and college prep help in a variety of categories. My guest is Angeles Echols – CEO and Founder of Educating Young Minds
Educating Young Minds (EYMI) is offering free online tutoring, mentoring. And college prep in a variety of course this help. To register, visit www.tinyurl.com/EYMLIVE40
Tune in to Taking it to the Streets, weekday mornings at 6:15, 7:08 and 8:40 on the Steve Harvey Morning Show on 96.3 WHUR.
Follow me on facebook and twitter at @bobbygailes for updates and to stay connected.
(Surfside, FL) — More help is on the way for those impacted by the multi-story condo collapse near Miami Beach. FEMA has approved an emergency declaration from Florida to bring in extra resources. State and county emergencies have already been declared since the collapse early Thursday morning. FEMA is also sending search and rescue crews to help dig through the rubble in Surfside. At least four people are dead and 159 others are unaccounted for as crews continue to search.
(Washington-DC) — The Department of Justice is announcing a lawsuit against the state of Georgia over new voting laws. This after Governor Kemp signed a controversial bill that makes changes on how residents can vote in the future. Attorney General Merrick Garland says “this is the first of many steps the D-O-J will take to make sure eligible voters can cast a vote nationwide.” This is the eighth lawsuit aiming to overturn provisions of the new law.
Former Minneapolis Police officer Derek Chauvin was sentenced to 22 1/2 years for the murder of George Floyd. We examine the sentencing and the broader issues of race and the justice system.
J. Wyndal Gordon, Trial Attorney (not pictured)
Debbie Hines, Trial Attorney, Former Baltimore City Prosecutor
Justin Hansford, Executive Director, The Thurgood Marshall Center for Civil Rights, Howard University School of Law
Derek Chauvin sentenced to 270 months behind bars.
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(Friday, June 25, 2021) – After tearful pleas from George Floyd’s family, a judge today sentenced Derek Chauvin to 270 months in prison for the murder of Floyd. The ex-Minneapolis police office officer will spend 22.5 years behind bars
Family members of Floyd spoke one after the other asking the judge to provide them closure and sentence Chauvin to the maximum for the killing of Floyd on May 25th 2020. Chauvin’s sentencing comes literally 13 months to the day Floyd died as Chauvin knelt on Floyd’s neck for over 9 minutes.
Chauvin spoke briefly at his sentencing only giving condolences to the family of George Floyd. He said he was not able to say more because of lingering legal issues. Chauvin still faces federal civil rights charges in Floyd’s death. “There’s going to be some other information in the future that would be of interest and I hope things will give you some peace of mind,” said Chauvin.
His mother Carolyn Pawlenty spoke on behalf of the Chauvin and his family calling her son a good man who was dedicated to his job.
Prosecutors had asked for the maximum for Chauvin to spend 30 years in prison. With good behavior, the 45-year-old Chauvin could be paroled in about 15 years.
In imposing the punishment, Judge Peter Cahill said he was not trying to make a statement with his sentencing and that it was not based on emotion.
“Today, we are able to breathe again,”said Floyd’s younger brother Philonise.
Helping our youth succeed in reading and beyond. This morning information on AARP’s Foundation Experience Corps DC program and the need for volunteers. My guest is Tony Taylor – Branch Director for Foundation Experience Corps DC
AARP Foundation Experience Corps connects students with caring adult volunteers age 50 and older who provide essential combination of training, life experience and commitment. The program helps children read at grade level. For more information go here:
Tune in to Taking it to the Streets, weekday mornings at 6:15, 7:08 and 8:40 on the Steve Harvey Morning Show on 96.3 WHUR.
Follow me on facebook and twitter at @bobbygailes for updates and to stay connected.
Since the end of the 2020 presidential election voting rights has been in the headlines weekly, sometimes daily. This week is no exception with the “For The People Act” not even getting past a proceedural vote in the Senate. This weekend the cross-country Black Voters Matter Tour will end in Washington, D.C., with a message about and for black voters. What is the message and will this and other movements, move the needle when it comes to fair voting practices?
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden has announced that “we have a deal” — a bipartisan agreement on a $953 billion infrastructure plan. The agreement, reached in a meeting Thursday at the White House, means a breakthrough after arduous negotiations on the president’s top legislative priority. Biden invited members of the bipartisan group to discuss the pared-down plan that has rare broad backing and could open the door to the president’s more sweeping and more expensive proposals. The senators have struggled over how to pay for the new spending.
NEW YORK (AP) — An appeals court has suspended Rudy Giuliani from practicing law in New York because he made false statements while trying to get courts to overturn Donald Trump’s loss in the presidential race. An attorney disciplinary committee said in its motion to suspend Giuliani’s license that there was “uncontroverted evidence” that Giuliani had made false statements to the courts, the public and lawmakers as he pushed theories that the election was stolen through fraud. The ruling, signed Thursday, will prevent Giuliani from representing clients as a lawyer. A message seeking comment about the ruling was sent Thursday to Giuliani and his lawyer.
Bicycle safety tips this morning on Taking It to the Streets and free efforts taking place across the city for youth giving them bicycle skills, inspections, and challenges. My guest this morning Charles Boston – Founder of the District Youth Cycling Club
City Green’s Youth Start Smart is hosting Bicycle Skills and Rodeo every Saturday thru August 28th in Wards 5, 6, 7, and 8. It’s part of their Summer Learning Series. For details and to register, www.citygreendc.eventbrite.com
Tune in to Taking it to the Streets, weekday mornings at 6:15, 7:08 and 8:40 on the Steve Harvey Morning Show on 96.3 WHUR.
Follow me on facebook and twitter at @bobbygailes for updates and to stay connected.
We’re at the Reporters’ Roundtable with a look at some of the top stories of the week. On deck tonight… a pedestrian bridge collapse in dc, President Biden announces a crack down crime and illegal guns. Capitol Hill politics, voting rights, DC statehood, Loudoun County schools and an active NFL player comes out.
Jamila Bey, Political Editor, ViacomMary C. Curtis, Columnist, Roll CallIngrid Sturgis, Assistant Chair, Associate Professor, Howard University Dept. of Media, Journalism & Film
#CarmeloAnthony allegedly has a total of 3 side babies with side pieces.
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#CarmeloAnthony allegedly has a total of 3 side babies with side pieces. 🥴 There is a woman claiming that the the ball player is the daddy of her twins and he has been supporting them financially but now wants emotional support as well. 😳
(Washington, DC) — The former head of the Democratic National Committee is running for governor of Maryland. Former DNC Chairman Tom Perez released a video on Tuesday announcing his campaign. The five-minute video promotes Perez as a Maryland native who rose through the ranks to become Secretary of Labor during the Obama administration. Maryland’s current governor, Republican Larry Hogan, is popular in the Democratic state but can’t run again because of term limits.
Contributed By Scott Lipscomb
Known for being one of the funniest men alive, Dave Chapelle is a world class comedian. He has no problem speaking his mind while still giving a good laugh.
After Candace Owens made distasteful comments on George Floyd he said “She’s the most articulate idiot I’ve ever seen in my life” reported the Jasmine Brand.
This came from his Netflix special “8:46” where he not only called her an idiot but questioned her hygiene.
The Jasmine Brand Reported “Now, on his new podcast The Midnight Miracle with Talib Kweli and Yasiin Bey, Dave Chappelle made it clear he’s standing by his comments.”
“There’s no way I owe Candace Owens an apology, is there?” said Chapelle to hos fellow Co-Hosts.
Chappelle feels Owens is “cruel and dangerous and completely the opposite of any Black woman I’ve ever met in my life.”
While many brothers and sisters agree that Owens is playing for the other team, we all feel commenting on Floyd was way too far.
He wrapped up taking about her by apologizing for complimenting her, ““By the way, Candace Owens, I’m sorry I called you articulate.”
(Linden, NJ) — A North Jersey school official faces calls for his resignation after comparing Vice President Kamala Harris to a prostitute. Gregory Martucci, a Linden School Board member, made the comment on Facebook in response to a video posted by pro-Trump comedian Terence K. Williams. His rant about Harris and immigration inspired Martucci to write, “She is right off the wingnut streets of San Francisco. What do you expect from a street walker who has no clue about America.” Martucci has since apologized, issuing a statement saying that his offensive comment doesn’t reflect who he is in his public or private life, nor his views about women. Mayor Derek Armstead is calling on Martucci to step down, saying he’ll help him pack up his office.
Contributed By Scott Lipscomb
It’s no secret the mutual level of respect Jazmine Sullivan and Issa Rae have for each other. After the two teased at a possible short film following the release of “HeauxTales” fans began to speculate what was in the works.
In the recent Essence magazine, who Sullivan graces the cover, Rae interviews her about her work, womanhood, as well as authenticity.
When asked about her writing process and her debut album Fearless, Sullivan responded ” for me, I just wanted to express myself in the most natural way, and that means me writing my stories. So many of the songs at that time came from a lot of the childish stuff I was going through. For example, busting windows out of an ex’s car and literally going straight from doing it to not being able to sleep. I was restless, because I was still in the moment.”
After being away for 6 years, Sullivan dropped HeauxTales which Rae asked what inspired her.
“a lot of inspiration does come from heartbreak. And it hits a different way if you are going through things personally. Especially if that’s what you like to write about—and I do write a lot of heartbreak songs, because I’ve been in a lot of bad relationships that just gave me material.”
As to the importance of promoting different kinds of black women Sullivan says she wants to promote all types of black womanhood.
“There can only be one R&B superstar; there can only be one rap girl at a time. That’s not true. God was not stingy when He was giving out gifts. And you’re not the only person. There are many other women, especially Black women, who can do what you do. And let’s all create spaces for each other to get out there and do that.”
Sullivan continued by giving praise to her friends and family who have helped her become who she is today.
To read the full interview check out Essence’s most recent issue
Wale has announced that he’ll be releasing a new album.
He went to Twitter to reveal that the album will be released this summer and that it will be the follow-up to his Folarin mixtape.
Wale didn’t give many other details on the upcoming album, but fans are ready.
Do you have Wale’s Folarin album? Which artists need to release a new album?
After working for it her whole life, Christina Clemons snagged the final spot on the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Team with her third-place finish in the 100 Meter Hurdles Final at the Olympic Trials. But most of the people watching the event on NBC hardly noticed; their eyes were on Clemons’ Doritos earrings.
“When I bought them, I didn’t think it would be a big thing at all,” Clemons says of the $8 earrings, which she bought at an Oregon Hot Topic. “I was like, ‘Oh, these are so cute.’ I love Doritos and they matched my uniform, so I decided to wear them in the final.”
Now it looks like the 31-year-old’s $8 purchase might pay off big for her. “Someone from Doritos reached out to me saying they would like to talk to me next month,” Clemons says. When asked if she’d be interested in signing an endorsement deal with the company, Clemens says, “100 percent, of course! I would love that!”
What do you think of the earrings? What’s the loudest piece of jewelry you’ve ever worn?
Actor Michael B. Jordan recently announced his new rum brand which sparked backlash on social media. The name in question is “J’Ouvert” which is a carnival celebrated in the Caribbean with 19th Century slavery ties.
On Tuesday via an instagram post, he apologized as well as shared that he learned the meaning behind the carnival.
“I just wanna say on behalf of myself & my partners, our intention was never to offend or hurt a culture(we love & respect) & hoped to celebrate & shine a positive light on,” he began his post. “Last few days have been a lot of listening. A lot of learning & engaging in countless community conversations.”
He finished the post with an apology and plan to change the brand name.
“We hear you. I hear you & want to be clear that we are in the process of renaming,” he wrote. “We sincerely apologize & look forward to introducing a brand we can all be proud of.”
Nicki Minaj, who is Trinidadian, was among the many social media users who were not pleased with the brand name.
“I’m sure MBJ didn’t intentionally do anything he thought Caribbean ppl would find offensive— but now that you are aware, change the name & continue to flourish & prosper. 🙏🏾🇹🇹 #jouvert,” the rapper captioned an Instagram post.
Page Six reported that Minaj also reposted a message explaining the significance the word has for Caribbean and Trinbagonian culture.
“J’Ouvert also known as jouvay originated in Trinidad with the festivities of Canboulay, which was a time when sugarcane fields caught on fire and slaves were still forced to harvest the remaining crops before complete destruction,” the post read. “That event was reenacted and male slaves were mocked by their masters. However after emancipation the slaves mocked the masters mocking them. The festival begins way before the crack of dawn and proceeds a little past sun up.”
The message explains the celebration was later “adopted by other Caribbean islands as they experienced emancipation throughout different periods in history.”
Master P is campaigning for the head coach job with the New Orleans Pelicans. P spoke with TMZ saying, “They gotta do something different, unique. You look at Tim Tebow, they brought him to play as a tight end because they looking at times is changing. The NBA is entertainment. I think it’s time for me to be the first hip-hop coach because [of] what I know as basketball. I played in the NBA, I done coached a lot of great players that are in the league. I done took my sons from being high school athletes to maybe they’ll be the next future big-time pro athletes. I coached DeMar DeRozan, a lot of great players.”
Master P played professional basketball with the Charlotte Hornets and Toronto Raptors. He’s also a native of New Orleans and argues that he would be able to connect the players with the community.
“We’ll win with Zion and be happy, [playoffs] and everything. I feel like it’s motivating the players and understanding them,” says P. He’s also up for taking the assistant coach position and “work his way up.”
Chauncy Billups is a runner-up for the head coaching position and Master P says he has an advantage coming from New Orleans.
Do you think Master P would be a good fit as the Pelicans head coach?
No word on why a NE bridge that carries pedestrians across I-295 came tumbling down today on cars passing by.
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Washington, D.C. (Wednesday, June 23, 2021) – A pedestrian bridge came tumbling down on a major thoroughfare in Washington, D.C., injuring a half dozen people. The bridge carries walkers across I-295 just prior to Polk Street, NE. According to DC Fire and EMS, 6 people were injured. Four of them were transported to nearby hospitals.
Hazmat crews are on the scene along with other emergency personnel. At least one truck and another vehicle are said to be under the bridge and hit by debris. No word on the cause of the collapse or the extent of injuries for the persons hurt.
Photos are provided by the DC Fire and EMS PIO on the scene.
Contributed by Scott Lipscomb
As much as fans would love to see two of the greats in a Verzuz, it won’t be happening soon. After a fan made flyer of Toni Braxton and Mary J. Blige circulated social media for a battle on July 4th, Verzuz confirmed it to be fake.
After a light hearted tweet with Kermit the Frog, Verzuz confirmed the battle not to be scheduled.
While the event isn’t real, don’t be surprised if it does one day take place. Toni Braxton has said in an interview with Missy Elliot for Interview Magazine that she would be open to the idea.
“Yeah, I can’t. I’m like, ‘It would have to be me, Mariah [Carey] or Mary J. [Blige] or something.’ Us girls from the ’90s. But no, I haven’t put it on the register to do it yet. I know they’ve called you, too.”
Swizz Beatz will be joined by Busta Rhymes, Griselda, and Method Man for a special tribute to DMX at this weekend’s BET Awards.
The tribute will feature special versions of DMX’s hits, “What’s My Name?” and The Ruff Ryders’ Anthem. Swizz curated the tribute along with choreographer and singer, Fatima Robinson.
DMX will also be honored this Thursday (June 24) at the ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Awards.
Nearly a year after Newark officials took down a statue of Christopher Columbus, they’ve found a replacement for the disgraced explorer.
A monument honoring civil rights icon Harriet Tubman has been selected to replace the Washington Park statue, says Newark Mayor Ras Baraka. “It is only fitting that we memorialize Tubman’s heroic efforts leading enslaved Africans to freedom via the Underground Railroad at this time of year when we celebrate the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States,” Baraka says.
The statue is expected to be erected sometime next summer, Baraka says. When it is, Washington Park will be rechristened “Tubman Square,” city officials reveal.
Is Tubman a good choice? One hundred years from now, will Columbus even be a footnote in U.S. history?
Pharrell Williams’ cousin, Donovan Lynch, was allegedly shot and killed by a Virginia Beach police officer by the name of Solomon Simmons III.
Four months after Lynch’s death, his father filed a federal lawsuit against the officer and the city of Virginia Beach.
Donovan’s father, Wayne Lynch is seeking $350,000 in damages from Simmons as well as $50 million from the city of Virginia Beach. The officer is being accused of excessive force resulting in the death of Donovan Lynch as well as failing to provide medical aid.
Lynch was shot while leaving a Virginia Beach restaurant with a friend, Officer Simmons was responding to shots fired call when he opened fire on Lynch. Authorities claim Lynch brandished a gun, however, witnesses denied the allegations.
Do you think there needs to be an overhaul of how police respond and use their weapons in order to apprehend suspects?
The widow of Lakers legend Kobe Bryant has settled her lawsuit against the helicopter company involved in the crash that killed her husband, daughter and seven others.
In a joint lawsuit filed one month after the January 2020 crash, Vanessa Bryant and the families of the other victims accused Island Express Helicopters of negligence, claiming the pilot flew too fast and the copter was unsafe to fly.
Court documents filed Tuesday reveal the “plaintiffs and defendants jointly report that they have agreed to settle their claims in the above-entitled action.” The amount of the settlement has not been disclosed.
Vanessa Bryant’s lawsuit against the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, which she filed after deputies shared photos of the crash online, is still pending.
