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Changes To Walk-Up Vaxx Sites

Arena Stage, the RISE Demonstration Center, U-D-C, and the Convention Center locations will all close in late June.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Washington, DC) — Major changes are being made to some of the District’s walk-up vaccination sites next month. Arena Stage, the RISE Demonstration Center, U-D-C, and the Convention Center locations will all close in late June. Approximately 30 days before each location closes, they will switch to the Johnson-and-Johnson one-dose vaccine. D.C. residents are being encouraged to visit vaccines-dot-gov to find the nearest vaccination location moving forward. More information can also be found at coronavirus-dot-dc-dot-gov.

 

New Bill Introduced To Help HBCUs

Posted by @Robinrazzi
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Contributed by Scott Lipscomb

A new bill has been introduced to help historically black colleges and universities(HBCUs) renovate and repair many of their facilities and buildings.

“For over 150 years, HBCUs have been agents of equity, access and excellence in education, despite being ignored and marginalized by federal and state governments. This historic bipartisan bill changes that,” said Democratic North Carolina Rep. Alma Adams, one of the lead sponsors of the bill, said last week.

Named the Institutional Grants for New Infrastructure, Technology, and Education (IGNITE) for HBCU Excellence Act, the bill emerged as a result of a June 2018 Government Accountability Office (GAO) that identified “extensive and diverse” capital project needs at HBCUs.
Also 42 surveyed HBCUs said 11 percent of their buildings are historic, but the U.S. Department of the Interior says the schools do not have the resources to do the maintenance. Both public and private Black colleges have deferred maintenance backlogs of $67 million and $17 respectively reported BET via their website.

“As a former community banker and a former chamber chairman in metro Little Rock, I know the academic and economic power and strength of these HBCUs, not only for the benefit of those students, but for the benefit of the greater Little Rock workforce,” Republican representative French Hill said, according to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. “This bill will, in my view, give them the tools and conditions and infrastructure they need for the campus in the future and the students of the future.”

Fantasia Welcomes Newborn Daughter

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Contributed by Scott Lipscomb
R&B Star Fantasia Barrino and her husband, Kendall Taylor, welcomed their first child together on Sunday.

“Happy Birthday to our little Angel 5-23-21 and may God keep and cover you for the rest of your days!” she wrote via instagram.
She wrote that she chose to surround her baby girl, named Keziah London Taylor, with elephants because they represent “patience, strength, power and remembrance.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Fantasia Taylor (@tasiasword)

“Just a few of the qualities that her presence has brought into our lives and this world. We were patient waiting on you to enter this world and we will always remember the strength that it took for me and @salute1st to create something as powerful as your life itself,” she continued.

Her husband also took to instagram to welcome the newborn as well as his first child with Fantasia.

“Today I experienced something that rewrote my personal definition of a Black Woman,” he wrote on Sunday under a photo of pregnant Barrino draped in sheer white fabric reported Page Six. “To observe my Queen @tasiasword bring my little Angel @keziahlondontaylor into this world elevated my understanding and sense of pride, respect and admiration for black women.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Kendall Taylor (@salute1st)

It’s Gun Violence Awareness Month

A gun violence prevention rally takes place Tuesday June 1st.

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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A call to action this morning to reclaim our streets and our future.  A major effort is underway to stop the gun violence in Prince George’s County and WHUR is teaming up with the County’s State’s Attorney for a Rally June 1st (this evening) to get the community actively involved in this effort.  My guest is Aisha Braveboy – Prince George’s County’s Attorney

The Office of the State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County presents Our Streets Our Future, a public Safety and Gun Violence Prevention Community Call to Action Rally Tuesday, June 1st from 5:30pm to 7:30pm at City of Praise Family Ministries @ 8502 Jericho City Drive in Landover.  WHUR will be on hand playing the music for this community event.  For 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.

Listen to this mornings segments here:

Part 1:

Part 2:

Naomi Osaka Becomes Highest Paid Woman In Sports

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Contributed By Scott Lipscomb

Four time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka is winning on and off the court, becoming the highest paid women in sports this past year with a huge $55 million.

 

This past year on her way to two grand slam wins, she was also a major figure in social justice. She wore masks with the names of seen victims of police shootings as well as even pulled out of an event in Cincinnati

 

Naomi’s off the court activism has made her one of the most sought after athletes to endorse. Of her 55 million(ranking 15 overall for all athletes this past year), only 5 million was prize money, the other 50 million came from endorsements!

 

“Osaka has partnered with two dozen brands that range from HR software (Workday) to watches (Tag Heuer). Her marketing appeal covers denim (Levi’s) to high fashion (Louis Vuitton). Osaka has deals worth eight figures annually (Nike) and ones with heavy equity components (Hyperice, BodyArmor). This month, fast-casual restaurant chain Sweetgreen revealed Osaka as its first athlete ambassador—she is also an investor in the company.” as reported by Yahoo Sports.

 

Aside from her being the current number 1 ranked tennis player, she also is an owner in NWSL team the Carolina Courage and advocate for promoting women’s sports.

 

Osaka is set to hit the Olympic stage this July where many expect her to bring a gold medal to her collection. No matter the outcome Oska is inspiring many girls everywhere and staying true to what she believes in

The Story of Momolu Stewart

His release from incarceration was a redemption that he has not wasted.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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Momolu Stewart is a DC native, sentenced to life in prison at the age of 16. After  more than two decades behind bars he was released with the help of reality TV star Kim Kardashian-West.  He was profiled in the documentary “Kim Kardashian-West: The Justice Project”.  His release was a redemption that he has not wasted.  We hear his hard knocks story and the inspiration he has become for so many.

Resources:

Momolu Stewart Instagram

Kim Kardashian-West & Momolu Stewart

Howard Univ. Names College Of Fine Arts After Chadwick Boseman

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Written by Howard Newsroom Staff

THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY’S EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN ROBERT A. IGER TO LEAD FUNDRAISING EFFORTS FOR A NEW, STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY AND ENDOWMENT FOR THE CHADWICK A. BOSEMAN COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS

WASHINGTON – Howard University President Wayne A. I. Frederick is pleased to announce that the newly reestablished College of Fine Arts will be named in honor of alumnus Chadwick Boseman, whose remarkable career as an actor, director, writer, and producer inspired millions around the world. The news comes just weeks after the announcement of alumna and actress Phylicia Rashad as dean of the college. During his tenure at Howard,Boseman led a student protest against the absorption of the College of Fine Arts into the College of Arts & Sciences. Long after graduating, he, along with other alumni, continued to engage in conversations with Howard University administration- their efforts were not in vain. Plans to re-establish the College of Fine Arts were announced in early 2018.

“When Chadwick Boseman returned to campus in 2018 to serve as our commencement speaker, he called Howard a magical place. During his visit, I announced our plans to reestablish the College of Fine Arts and he was filled with ideas and plans to support the effort in a powerful way,” said President Frederick. “Chadwick’s love for Howard University was sincere, and although he did not live to see those plans through to fruition, it is my honor to ensure his legacy lives on through the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts with the support of his wife and the Chadwick Boseman Foundation. I’m also elated to have the support of The Walt Disney Company’s Executive Chairman Bob Iger, who has graciously volunteered to lead the fundraising effort to build a state-of-the art facility and endowment for the college.”

“We would like to thank President Wayne A. I. Fredrick and the Howard University Board of Trustees for honoring our beloved Chad with the renaming of the reestablished College of Fine Arts. We would also like to thank Bob Iger for spearheading the fundraising efforts of this development,” said The Boseman Family. “Chad fought to preserve the College of Fine Arts during his matriculation at Howard and remained dedicated to the fight throughout his career, and he would be overjoyed by this development. His time at Howard University helped shape both the man and the artist that he became, committed to truth, integrity, and a determination to transform the world through the power of storytelling. We are confident that under the dynamic leadership of his former professor and mentor the indomitable Phylicia Rashad that the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts will inspire artistic scholars for many generations.”

“I am extremely pleased that Howard University has chosen to honor my husband in this way and elated that Ms. Rashad has accepted the role as Dean,” said Boseman’s wife, Simone Ledward-Boseman. “Chad was a very proud Bison — both Howard and Ms. Rashad played integral roles in his journey as an artist. The re-establishment of the College of Fine Arts brings this part of his story full-circle and ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire young storytellers for years to come.”

A native of South Carolina, Boseman graduated from Howard University in 2000 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in directing. During his tenure, he had the fortunate opportunity to be trained and mentored by Rashad, who recognized his talent early on. “Unrelenting in his pursuit of excellence, Chadwick was possessed with a passion for inquiry and a determination to tell stories – through acting, writing, and directing – that revealed the beauty and complexity of our human spirit,” said Rashad, who is elated about the news of Boseman’s recognition.

The Walt Disney Company’s Executive Chairman Robert A. Iger will personally lead fundraising efforts in honor of Boseman, a cherished member of the Disney/Marvel family, to build a new, state-of-the-art facility to house the college and an endowment for the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts.

“Chadwick Boseman was an extraordinarily gifted, charismatic and kind-hearted person whose incredible talent and generous spirit were clearly reflected in his iconic performances, including as King T’Challa in ‘Black Panther,’ and in his tireless commitment to helping others. Through his tremendous example he inspired millions to overcome adversity, dream big and reach beyond the status quo, and this College named in his honor at his beloved Howard University will provide opportunities for future generations of artists to follow in his footsteps and pursue their dreams,” said Iger.

Boseman’s college classmate Ta-Nehisi Coates was a student writer for the Hilltop newspaper when Boseman and his fellow students orchestrated the protests to challenge the closing of the College of Fine Arts. Coates recalls how Howard nurtured Boseman’s sense of the power of the arts to affect change. Thus, he believes it’s only fitting that the University name the re-established program after one it’s most accomplished students.

“Naming the College of Fine Arts after Chad, I think it’s perfect and it’s exactly what should be done. His theater work, his movie work, his acting and his writing, this was a continuation of that activism. The arts for him were always about something more. We’ve had a long list of artists come out of Howard, but, in our generation, nobody can better articulate, by example or by artistry, what we learned at Howard and what the university gave to us. So, I think it’s just fitting – it makes me teary-eyed thinking about it– naming the College after our brother who never stopped fighting for it,” said Coates.

Today’s announcement kicks off a fundraising effort to build a new, state-of-the-art facility to become the home of the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts. The building will also house the Cathy Hughes School of Communications and the University’s television and radio stations, WHUT-TV and WHUR 96.3 FM, creating a dynamic, one-stop complex for the arts and journalism combined. To donate, please visit https://giving.howard.edu/BosemanCollegeOfFineArts.

Central Park Karen Suing Ex-Employer

She alleges the company perpetuated her image as a “privileged white female Karen.”

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(New York, NY) — The woman known as the “Central Park Karen” is suing her former employer for racial discrimination. Amy Cooper’s video went viral last summer after she called New York City police on a Black bird watcher in Central Park, who wanted her to leash her dog. Cooper, who is white, is accusing Franklin Templeton of firing her without a thorough investigation, even though they publicly said they conducted one. She also alleges the company perpetuated her image as a “privileged white female Karen.”

 

8 People Dead In San Jose Shooting

The shooting took place at a city transportation light rail yard this morning.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(San Jose, CA) — Police say eight people are dead after a mass shooting in downtown San Jose. Russell Davis with the Santa Clara County sheriff’s office confirmed the shooter is also dead. The shooting took place at a city transportation light rail yard this morning. Davis said many of the victims are city transportation employees and several are wounded and in the hospital. Police say the suspect is an employee of the city transportation agency and NBC News identifying the man as Samuel Cassidy.  There are unconfirmed reports the shooting took place during a union meeting and two fires in the area may have been connected to the massacre. FBI and ATF agents are also on the scene.

Shots Fired Near George Floyd Square On Anniversary of Floyd’s Death

Posted by @Robinrazzi
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Contributed by Scott Lipscomb
A year later and things still aren’t 100% right in Minnesota. As the one year anniversary for the death of George Floyd was set to take place, an unidentified shooter sent about 30 shots into the crowd gathered for peaceful events.

One person was reported and taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries

“The shooting occurred shortly after 10 a.m. on Tuesday in the 3800 block of Elliot Avenue, Minneapolis police said in a statement. The incident occurred a block away from the intersection where Floyd died, which has become an ongoing memorial known as George Floyd Square.” in a report from NBC News.

Hopefully these attacks weren’t with race related intent.

Voice Actor Samuel E. Wright Passes at 74

Posted by @Robinrazzi
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Contributed By Scott Lipscomb
If you’re a Disney fan you probably have heard the oscar winning song “Under The Sea” by Samuel E. Wright or Sebastain the Crab from “The Little Mermaid.”

The actor recently passed but leaves behind a lifetime of smiles and memories.

“On top of his passion for the arts and his love for his family, Sam was most known for walking into a room and simply providing PURE JOY to those he interacted with,” the town of Montgomery, New York wrote on its Facebook page.

Aside from acting, one of his biggest accomplishments was opening the first performing arts school in his town, the Hudson Valley Conservatory.

“The greater Town of Montgomery Community mourns together today. As we say goodbye to a pillar in our community and ask everyone to share a memory and help us celebrate the life of this great man,” a post on the town’s Facebook page said.

Wright will be missed in the community as well as among Disney fans.

Providing Our Young Girls The Tools For Success

The Queens2Bee Leadership Academy offering free monthly coaching sessions

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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Listen to this mornings segment here:

Is COVID Becoming A Black and Brown Disease

8 out of 10 of the COVID cases in DC are among people of color.

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Washington, D.C. (Tuesday, May 25, 2021) – African Americans in DC account for 45 percent of the overall population.  But when it comes to coronavirus infections, Black people in the District of Columbia make up more than 80 percent of the cases.

The reality of those statistics has one health official wondering if COVID-19 is becoming a disease that only impacts people of color.  “I am terrified that this thing could become a Black and Brown disease and that it will stay in our community for a long, long time,” said Dr. Reed Tuckson, co-founder of the Black Coalition Against COVID-19.  Tuckson made that comment Tuesday during a Zoom meeting with the Anacostia Coordinating Council.  A disproportionate number of infections and deaths in DC has been reported East of the Anacostia River in Wards 7 and 8.

While the number of COVID cases in DC has dropped steadily since January, Mayor Muriel Bowser says the percentage of people of color who are getting COVID has gone up.

Like many jurisdictions around the country, the District has been sounding the alarm trying to convince hesitant residents to get vaccinated.  But the number of vaccinations among African Americans and Hispanics remains woefully low.  The District estimates that less than 20% of Black residents are fully vaccinated.  “If we don’t get our vaccination rates up, we’re going to be in a tough situation,” added Tuckson.

George Floyd, One Year Later

We take a look at how far we have and have not come in one year.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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Nearly a dozen members of George Floyd’s family and legal team met today with President Biden and Vice President Harris at The White House.  Today was supposed to be the day the George Floyd Justice In Policing Act was signed into law.  It did not happen but Capitol Hill politics keep it stalled in the senate.  The symbolism of today’s Oval Office meeting was not lost on the family.  But what about beyond the beltway and across the country?  What have we learned one year after George Floyd’s life was ended beneath the knee of Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin?  Has Floyd’s death changed america or has it only revealed and refocused a difficult divide that we always knew was there?  Tonight we take a look at how far we have and have not come in one year.

Leslie Redmond, Former President, Minneapolis Chapter, NAACP, Founder, “Don’t Complain, Activate”

P.J. Hill, Vice President, Minneapolis Chapter, NAACP

Kristen Clarke Confirmed as Asst. AG for Civil Rights

Clarke is the first woman and the first woman of color to head the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division

Posted by Harold Fisher
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Senate Narrowly Confirms Controversial Justice Department Pick

(Washington, DC) — Veteran civil rights attorney Kristen Clarke is headed to the Justice Department as assistant attorney general. She encountered stiff Republican opposition and was narrowly confirmed by the Senate on a vote of 51-48. Maine Republican Susan Collins voted yes. Clarke is the first woman and the first woman of color to head the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called Clarke “hugely accomplished.” Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell accused Clarke of being on the “far-left fringe of the political spectrum.”

Kristen Clarke

Clarke is a former Executive Director of  The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law.

Pres. Biden Meets with Family of George Floyd

A reform bill that’s being negotiated in the Senate is named for George Floyd.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Washington, DC) — Members of George Floyd’s family are thanking President Biden and Vice President Harris for meeting with them in the Oval Office. The private meeting marked the one year anniversary of Floyd’s death. George Floyd was an unarmed Black man who died while in police custody in Minneapolis. Speaking outside the White House, family attorney Ben Crump said the President expressed an interest in signing a sweeping police reform bill as soon as possible. George Floyd’s nephew Brandon Williams said the President wants it to be the “right bill.”

George Floyd’s brother Philonise said federal laws should protect people of color. His brother Rodney noted the President expressed great concern for the family. George Floyd’s death sparked nationwide protests and calls for police reforms. A reform bill that’s being negotiated in the Senate is named for George Floyd. Crump said he hopes the end result is a meaningful and bipartisan bill.

Jackson Family May Sue Martin Bashir

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Michael Jackson’s family is threatening to sue BBC journalist Martin Bashir over the 2003 documentary interview he did with the King of Pop.
According to Jackson’s nephew Taj, Bashir “stabbed him in the back” during the “Living with Michael Jackson” interview and also used a letter from Princess Diana to land the interview with the star.
It was that documentary where Michael Jackson admitted sleeping in the same bed with underage boys and denied any sexual contact.
Over the past few weeks, the journalist has been under fire for how he got the interview with Princess Diana before her death.
Do you remember that Michael Jackson documentary?

‘A Black Lady Sketch Show’ Renewed

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Don’t look now, but HBO has just renewed A Black Lady Sketch Show for the third season.
“I’m honored to continue our incredible series and partnership with HBO, Issa Rae, and JAX Media,” said series creator Robin Thede.
Over its two-year span on television, the series has received three Emmy Awards and Thede promises to push the envelope even further during season three.
Season 2 of A Black Lady Sketch Show comes to an end this Friday.
Have you watched A Black Lady Sketch Show?

You Have the Chance To Win a Piece of Land on the Moon

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If you’ve ever wanted to own a piece of land on the moon, now is your chance.
To celebrate the Lunar Eclipse this Wednesday, the folks over at bagel Bites have come up with a cool contest for those that want to snag a deed for land on the moon.
This Wednesday, all you have to do is send out a tweet with the hashtag #bbsweepstakes to enter. Oh, and make sure you’re enjoying Bagel Bites too.
One hundred fans will be picked to receive a moon deed.
Do you think we’ll be able to vacation on the moon soon? Will you vacation in outer space?

Apple Issues Update Warning to iPhone Users

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The folks over at Apple have released iOS 14.6 to all iPhone users.
This new iOS update gives users an update to Apple Card to where up to five people can share an Apple Card with up to five people with Apple Card Family.
Other updates include some tweaks to AirTag technology and now you have subscription support on the Podcast app.
Do you update the new software immediately or do you wait a while?

Kim K Being Sued by Staff

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Looks like Kim Kardashian is going to have to pause her legal career in order to handle a legal issue of her own.
Kim is being sued by her maintenance and cleaning crew for allegedly failing to pay wages, provide meal breaks, and cover any expenses.
Now Kim is claiming that she’s the wrong one to be sued and it should be the third-party vendor she hired that should be sued.
The workers say otherwise and that they were told they would be hired as full-time employees but failed to get any benefits.
Because of this, the workers are looking to get damages and other penalties.
Have you ever had anything like this happen to you?

50 Cent Finds Bittersweet Lining In Pop Smoke’s Billboard Music Award

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50 Cent celebrated a bittersweet moment when Pop Smoke’s mother took the stage to accept his Billboard Music Awards on Sunday evening (May 23rd.)

“Pop said he wanted to take his mom to an award show,” he wrote. “mission accomplished!” 50 served as executive producer for Pop’s debut album, Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon.

Pop’s mother, Audrey Jackson, thanked fans for honoring her son’s life and explained that his album was for young kids who make a way out of no way.

Pop won five posthumous Billboard Music Awards for Top New Artist, Top Rap Artist, Top Male Rap Artist, Top Billboard 200 Album, and Top Rap Album.

What is your favorite song from Pop Smoke’s Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon album?

Marlon Wayans: ‘We Didn’t Walk Away…They Snatched It’

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Marlon Wayans sat down with Kevin Hart on his “Comedy Gold Minds” podcast and revealed that the Wayans brothers’ “Scary Movie” franchise was stripped from them.

“Scary Movie” 1 and 2 starred Marlon and Shawn Wayans and was directed by their brother, Keenan Wayans. By the third and fourth installment of the franchise, the Wayans were no longer a part of the films.

“We didn’t walk away from a franchise, they didn’t want to make our deal and they snatched it,” Marlon explained. “[Harvey] Weinstein did some really terrible, like rape and pillage villages type of business,” he elaborated. “…it wasn’t that we, we ever walked away from the franchise that we created, it was taken and us being the creatives that we are was like ‘alright, bet. F–k you, now watch what I create.’

Both Wayans-assisted “Scary Movie” installments made Miramax (Weinstein’s company) money, however according to Marlon negotiations soured with the Weinstein brothers, “The second one they rushed us into and by the third one they didn’t want to pay the money so they snatched it. We found out on Christmas that they hired somebody else to go do it.”

Did someone steal your work and not pay you? Share your story.

Music Artist Akon’s Range Rover Stolen From Buckhead Gas Station

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Akon’s Range Rover was stolen while he was pumping gas at the QuikTrip on Sidney Marcus Boulevard on Tuesday morning.

Atlanta police report there has been an uptick in cars being stolen and advise people to take their keys out of the car while pumping gas.

The incident happened after midnight and Atlanta police are asking for any information to be reported to Crime Stoppers at 404-577-8477.

Did you get your vehicle back after it was stolen?

Popeye’s Unveils New Blackened Chicken Sandwiches

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If you’re wondering, “What else can be done with fast food chicken sandwiches?,” Popeye’s has your answer.
Popeye’s has launched its new Blackened Chicken Sandwiches at participating restaurants.
The sandwich features a non-battered or breaded chicken filet fried in black seasoning.
The Blackened Chicken Sandwich is served as either a Classic option or a Spicy option.
Would you try this new chicken sandwich from Popeye’s? Are you still into all of these chicken sandwich releases from fast food chains?

How To Secure Government Contracts

The Public Service Commission is hosting webinars tomorrow and June 2nd.

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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Are you looking to do business with the District and need to learn what it takes to secure a government contract? The Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia is hosting a series of webinars to help you get in the know.  My guest this morning is Willie Phillips – Chair of the DC Public Service Commission

The Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia is hosting a webinar series on  May 26th, and June 2nd for persons to find out about for contract opportunities with the Commission for certified business enterprises. 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.

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Talking About Mental Health & Wellness

Trying to open up the conversation about mental health for those who struggle with talking about it.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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Dr. Anthony Fauci said a mental health crisis will be the next pandemic, sparked by a myriad of issues coming out the COVID-19 shutdown.  Have you done a mental wellness check on your loved ones and friends?  What about doing one on yourself?  This is National Mental Health Awareness Month.  We’re trying to open up the conversation about mental health for those who struggle with talking about it.

Resources:

Fetherson & Knight Psychological Services

Guests:

Fetherson & Knight Psychological Services, Chief Operating Officer / Co-Owner (not pictured)

Tynetta Smith, Graduate Student Counseling Intern (not pictured)

 

 

 

House Hearing Probes Voter ID Laws

Lawmakers are looking at voter ID laws across the U.S.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Washington, DC) — Lawmakers are looking at voter ID laws across the U.S. North Carolina Democrat G.K. Butterfield opened a virtual House hearing and said some voter ID laws are restrictive and “disproportionately burden minority voters.” He argued such laws diminish election turnout among minorities. Butterfield said states should be making it easier for all to vote. Wisconsin Republican Bryan Steil [[ steel ]] called Butterfield’s arguments a “false narrative.” He said voter ID helps ensure free, fair and secure elections. Steil stressed that voter ID makes it “easier to vote and hard to cheat.” He said voters must have confidence in election results.

Byron Allen Suing McDonalds For $10 Billion For Discrimination

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Contributed by Scott Lipscomb
Not everyone is “Loving it” as the famous McDonald’s jingle goes.

Business mogul and former comedian Byron Allen is suing McDonalds for $10 billion for racial discrimination.

The claim is that McDonald’s does not use the same portion of its advertising budget on black media companies as it does non-black companies. Black media companies only receive 5 million out of the 1.6 billion budget for advertising even though the main consumers are black people.

“This is about economic inclusion of African American-owned businesses in the U.S. economy,” Allen wrote in an open letter, which was signed by several Black media executives, including Earl “Butch” Graves, Jr., the president and CEO of BLACK ENTERPRISE. “McDonald’s takes billions from African American consumers and gives almost nothing back. The biggest trade deficit in America is the trade deficit between White corporate America and Black America, and McDonald’s is guilty of perpetuating this disparity. The economic exclusion must stop immediately.” reported Black Enterprise via their website.

“We are not surprised that both Black employees/executives as well as the Black franchisees are suing McDonald’s for racial discrimination and unfair treatment. And now you are being sued for $10 billion by Black-owned media. Why?? Because we all firmly believe the culture at McDonald’s is racist and very toxic,” the letter continues.

Biden: Get Ready For Hurricane Season

The U.S. experienced a record year of extreme weather events in 2020

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(Washington, DC) — President Biden is advising vulnerable regions to get ready for hurricane season, which officially starts on June 1st. Visiting FEMA headquarters in DC, Biden also warned about expected wildfires in the West. He said he’s insisting on “readiness for all these challenges.” Biden vowed to spare no expense in getting prepared. He praised the men and women of FEMA and said they have incredibly difficult jobs. Biden noted that extreme weather events and natural disasters don’t care about red states or blue states.

The Biden administration is designating one-billion dollars for states, targeted communities and Tribal governments to help prepare for extreme weather events. A White House statement says administration is also unveiling development of “next generation climate data systems at NASA to help understand and track how climate change is impacting communities.” The statement notes that the U.S. experienced a record year of extreme weather events in 2020.

Jeremih Lands Role In ‘Power Book IV: Force’

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Contributed by Scott Lipscomb

R&B star Jeremih is back, this time as an actor on the new installment of power “Power Book IV: Force.”

This is a positive move for the singer as he had a scary run-in with COVID-19 in 2020.

“I had a tube down my throat for about a week and a half. I was really like, in a dream and I ain’t gonna lie, I woke up about two times and all I remember is just seeing a white light,” he said.

Jeremih, who had to relearn to walk, is now doing much better.

He continued, “What I ended up having and I don’t mind sharing it because now, you know, I’m here- it was called an [multisystem] inflammatory syndrome,MIS. Which is a rare case of, you know, the cause and effect of COVID-19. My whole insides, all my organs, became inflamed. It was going down.” reported Hot 97.

The new series will focus on character Tommy Egan as he leaves NY to start a life on the west coast.

Prince Harry Reveals He Used Drugs To Help Cope With Death Of Mother

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Contributed By Scott Lipscomb
Death isn’t easy for anyone, and healing can be a hard and long process. For Prince Harry, whose mother tragically passed when he was 12, that process has been anything but easy.

Prince Harry and Oprah have a new docu series coming out to help remove stigmas around mental health. The last time he was with Oprah in March him and his wife, Meghan, revealed racism within the royal family and how he felt neglected. In the most recent episode he explained how the constant media pressure almost led his wife to self harm.

“The clicking of cameras and the flash of cameras makes my blood boil. It makes me angry. It takes me back to what happened to my mum, what I experienced as a kid,” he tells Winfrey in the documentary.
“I was so angry with what happened to her, and the fact that there was no justice at all … The same people that chased her through that tunnel photographed her dying on the back seat of that car.”
In the five-part documentary series, Harry is seen undergoing a form of therapy known as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to treat unresolved anxiety stemming from his anger at the media and the death of his mother, reported NBC News.
Harry also notes how he turned to drugs and alcohol not for personal enjoyment but rather to suppress his feelings of sadness and anger.
“I was willing to drink, I was willing to take drugs, I was willing to try and do the things that made me feel less like I was feeling,” he said. “Not because I was enjoying it but because I was trying to mask something,” he added.
Harry for the last four years has seen a therapist which he hopes will help him find peace and less anger.

Lady Gaga Reveals She Was Raped

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Contributed by Scott Lipscomb
Pop star Lady Gaga expressed that she was taken advantage of and raped when she was 19 by a former producer.

On the pilot for the new docuseries by Prince Harry and Oprah Winfrey, Lady Gaga revealed that a producer asked her to take her clothes off at the early stage of her entertainment career.

“And they didn’t stop. They didn’t stop asking me, and then I just froze. I don’t even remember,” she said. “And I will not say his name. I understand this Me Too movement. I understand that some people feel really comfortable with this, and I do not. I do not ever want to face that person again.”

Not only was she raped, but the singer also became pregnant. She experienced immense pain as well as thoughts of self harm and guilt.

“First, I felt full-on pain. Then I went numb,” she said. “And then I was sick for weeks and weeks and weeks and weeks after, and I realized that it was this same pain that I felt when the person who raped me dropped me off pregnant on the corner, my parents’ house, because I was vomiting and sick because I’d been … abused. I was locked away in a studio for months.”

The slow healing process has been long for her and not always linear, the LA times reported that “Gaga said her healing process has seen a “slow rise” over the years. “And even if I have six brilliant months, all it takes is getting triggered once to feel bad. … thinking about dying, wondering if I’m ever going to do it.”

Gaga hopes her sharing her story can stop girls in similar situations from inflicting self harm on themselves.

50 Cent Donates $300K to Houston Schools

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50 Cent once said “Hate It or Love It I’m On Top,” and one thing he is on top of is giving back!

The rapper, business mogul, and philanthropist recently moved to Houston and has helped the community since his arrival. He recently donated 300k with his G-Unity Foundation to Houston’s Independent School District(ISD).

“These programs will really get people excited to learn again after everything that’s been going on,” the rapper said in a press conference alluding to the tough year many have experienced due to COVID-19.

The program not only focuses on making learning exciting, but also helping shape future entrepreneurs with exclusive access to 50 Cent’s G Unity Business Lab.

The rapper played Santa this past holiday season and donated thousands of dollars in toys for the children. One thing is for sure, he loves helping the next generation have the best possible chance at success.

BET Awards Returns with Live Audience

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Contributed by Scott Lipscomb

COVID-19 has slowed a lot of things down and shifted the focus of many companies to help aid in relief efforts as well as vaccinations. After a year of hardships, fans can find something to smile about with the 2021 Bet Awards premiering June 27th from Los Angeles, California.

Vaccinated fans will be able to register for a chance to be a part of the live audience!
“Since the beginning of the pandemic, BET has been at the forefront of recovery efforts for our community, turning entertainment touchpoints into opportunities to empower our audiences and help combat the disproportionate impacts of COVID-19,” said BET President Scott Mills in a statement on their website.

Last year powerful performances by Jenifer Hudson, DaBaby and Roddy Ricch, YG and others focused on Police Brutality and the Black Lives Matter Movement. With progress being made we can expect to see more celebrities use their platforms to help spread awareness on social issues.

While the nominees are set to be released this month, we can expect to see some of our favorite artists.

Let us know who we think is due for a BET award on June 27th.

Helping The Underserved Community

Distant Relatives Project feeds the homeless every last Saturday of the month.

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Empowering those hit by life’s many circumstances.  Distant Relatives Project is on the frontlines of tackling critical issues impacting our community’s under-served.  My guest is Jason Akyea – Director of Programs for Distant Relatives

Distant Relatives Project is a 501c3 non-profit organization with a commitment to developing underserved communities.  Every last Saturday of the month they host “Feeding Our Relatives,” a program that address the homeless pillar. 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.

 

Listen to this segment here:

Rental Assistance, Alpha Health Fair. More Free Events In Community’s Choice

WHUR’ s Community’s Choice features weekly non-profit events. To get your event on-line and on-air, email Renee Nash at rnash@whur.com.

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Rental Assistance

If you are a resident of Prince George’s County and have experienced loss of income due to COVID, HOPE may be able to help with rental assistance. www.hopefinancial.com

Alpha Phi Alpha Health Fair

Calling all men. Time to get healthy, wealthy, and wise. Join the brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity for their 2021 Men’s Health Forum June 12th. www.pui1906.org

Destination Achievers

Are you in need of job skills and mentoring or are you at risk of unemployment. Destination Achievers Inc. may be able to help. www.destinationachievers.org

Oral Health Workshop

June is Oral Health Month. Join Glory World International Ministry June 26th for a free oral education and awareness workshop at Longfields Elementary School in Forestville. It’s free for parents and children. www.gwimsolutions.com

AARP Foundation Experience Corps

Are you looking for ways to help area youth succeed? The AARP Foundation Experience Corps is in need of volunteers. www.aarp.org/ecwashingtondc

Housing Counseling Services

Housing Counseling Services provides free webinars every month to help tenants, homebuyers, and homeowners. Registration is required. www.housingetc.org

WHUR Community’s Choice

To get your non-profit on the air and web, email Renee Nash @ rnash@whur.com at least three weeks prior to your event.

It Takes Two

Are you a single parent with a child in grades 4th thru college. It Takes Two Inc. is accepting applications for its Tools for Success Scholarship to provide school supplies for Maryland youth. www.ittakestwoinc.org

Managing College Debt and Later Life Financial Burdens

Resources to prevent and manage college debt.

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College graduations are well underway. We’re glad to see them come back.  What we’re not so happy to talk about is the college debt that will follow so many newly-minted degree-holders for years to come.  And that’s just the beginning.  Other factors can contribute to the piling on of debt long after college is in the rear-view mirror.  How do you manage the college debt and other financial burdens weighing us down?

Resources:

Dr. Tisa Silver-Canady

 

Dr. Tisa Silver-Canady, Author, Collegiate Financial Wellness Expert

WHO: COVID Deaths Could Be Vastly Undercounted

The WHO says deaths could be two to three times higher

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(Geneva) — The World Health Organization is issuing a warning that the number of coronavirus deaths around the world could be way higher than what has officially been reported. The WHO says deaths could be two to three times higher, which means six to eight million people may have now died from the virus or related causes. They also noted that COVID may have killed at least three million people last year. That includes as many as one-and-a-half million people in the Americas. Johns Hopkins University says there have been more than 33-million coronavirus infections in the U.S. The death toll stands at nearly 589-thousand.

Rittenhouse Makes First In-Person Court Appearance

 Trial Set For Nov. 1

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(Kenosha, WI) — A man charged with killing two people last year during police brutality protests will go on trial later this year. Kyle Rittenhouse, who was 17 at the time of the shootings but has since turned 18, made his first in-person court appearance today and he’ll go on trial November 1st. Rittenhouse is accused of committing the crimes just after the police shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha. Rittenhouse also allegedly wounded one other person. He’s been out of jail on a two-million-dollar bail.

Kyle Rittenhouse

Lil Duval Chooses Faith Over Fear, ‘Living My Best Life’

My friend was diagnosed with cancer. He decided to “live his best” life for his remaining five years. That inspired some of the lyrics to the song, “Smile.”

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Lil Duval’s first comedy special is out now, and he’s bustling with excitement about it. He believes that God is working through him, in many ways. I believe he’s right. When talking with him, you quickly learn that he’s not a man of empty words. Lil Duval is walking the walk.

Did you know the song, “Smile” was inspired by one of his friends, who was diagnosed with terminal cancer? The friend didn’t get depressed about his fate. Instead, he decided to live his best life for as long as he had left on this earth. Duval, along with a few other friends helped him do just that. That was, in part, how Duval wrote the lyrics to the song , “Smile” featuring Snoop Dogg, Ball Greezy & Midnight Star. The song has over 47 million views to this day.

Be sure to catch Lil Duval’s new comedy special “Living My Best Life,” now streaming. He’s also starring in the sequel to “The Blacks” in June, alongside comedians Katt Williams and Mike Epps.