This morning it’s all about finances as we provide you with advice for those who may be looking to retire in the next 5 years. Here to share his expertise on what steps should be taken in order to get the most out of your retirement nest egg is Tayvon Jackson, Owner – New Perspective Financial Solutions.
For more information go here: www.newperspectivefs.com
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Howard University students are gearing up for their Alternative Spring Break initiative. This year their mission is even more critical and they need help to make their trip. The Annual WHUR Helping Hands Radiothon is this Sunday to help offset the cost of the students’ volunteer efforts. My guest is Joseph Dillard – Program Administrator of Alternative Spring Break Program
The WHUR Helping Hands Radiothon seeks to raise money to help defray the cost of sending more than 1,300 Howard University students to communities across the country to volunteer. The radiothon is Sunday, February 23rd from 6am to 6pm. You can donate now at: www.whur.com
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Grab your mask and join me with the brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity for their Mardi Gras Community Awards.
My guest is Isaiah Brandon – Vice-Polemarch for Fort Washington Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
The Fort Washington Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. presents the 1st Annual Community Achievement Mardi Gras Gala February 22nd at 8pm at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt. For more information go here: www.fwakapsi.com
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DC IMMIGRATION RESOURCES AND LEGAL INFORMATION VIRTUAL TOWNHALL SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22ND, 12:00 NOON https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/IcqGQizbS_GpggUd4KaCAg#/registration
HuffPost reports a Delta plane on a flight from Minneapolis crashed while landing in Toronto’s Pearson International Airport. All passengers and crew are said to be accounted for. The plane landed upside down on the runway, injuring 18 passengers, some critical.
The airport confirmed the incident after social media users shared images of the upturned plane with smoke. Delta reported no fatalities, with 21 injured passengers taken to hospitals. The flight, operated by Endeavor Air, carried 80 people, and three passengers suffered critical injuries.
The crash occurred amid recent FAA personnel firings by President Trump, raising concerns about aviation safety.
According to CNN, the acting commissioner of the Social Security Administration, Michelle King, has resigned following a dispute with Elon Musk’s U.S. DOGE Service over access to government records.
King, who had been with the agency for more than 30 years, stepped down from her role as acting commissioner over the weekend. The disagreement with Musk’s company led to her departure from the position.
White House spokesperson Harrison Fields announced her replacement Monday: “President Trump has nominated the highly qualified and talented Frank Bisignano to lead the Social Security Administration, and we expect him to be swiftly confirmed in the coming weeks. In the meantime, the agency will be led by a career Social Security anti-fraud expert as the acting commissioner.”
Nancy J. Altman of Social Security Works expressed her concerns: “If there is an evil intent to punish perceived enemies, someone could erase your earnings record, making it impossible to collect the Social Security and Medicare benefits you have earned.”
PEOPLE reports Jay-Z is suing lawyer Tony Buzbee for defamation, civil extortion, and intentional infliction of emotional distress following the dismissal of a lawsuit alleging assault by Jay-Z and Diddy.
Jay-Z claims the lawsuit was strategically timed to coincide with his daughter’s premiere and resulted in financial losses and reputational damage. “I felt that Mr. Buzbee was placing a gun to my head that I either bow to his demands or endure personal and financial ruin,” the rap mogul wrote in his declaration.
The rapper is determined to hold Buzbee accountable and protect his legacy amid ongoing legal battles. When the original lawsuit occurred Oct. 20, 2024, an unnamed woman alleged that in 2000, after the VMA’s Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs and Shawn ‘Jay-Z’ Carter assaulted her in a New York City residence in front of a celebrity female, celebrity whom remains unnamed.
Following the dismissal of the case, Carter made a statement: “Today is a victory,” he wrote. “The frivolous, fictitious and appalling allegations have been dismissed. This civil suit was without merit and never going anywhere. The fictional tale they created was laughable, if not for the seriousness of the claims. I would not wish this experience on anyone,” he continued. “The trauma that my wife, my children, loved ones, and I have endured can never be dismissed.”
Discussion: Mark your calendar for a Women’s Small Business Expo coming up just in time for Women’s History Month. My guest this morning has all the details is Estraya Martinez – Senior Vice Commander of VFW Post 1503 in Dale City, Virginia
Inaugural Women’s Small Business Expo to be held March 1st at VFW Post 1503 at 14631 Minnieville Road in Dale City Virginia.
Listen to this mornings segment here:
Prince George’s County Family Justice Center
The Prince George’s County Family Justice Center is looking for energetic young adults to serve as counselors and role models for its Camp Hope program.www.pgcfamilyjusticecenter.org
African American Health Program
Get to a healthier you. The African American Health Program invites you to join them for Nutrition Mondays. www.aahpmontgomerycounty.org
Journey to Freedom
Celebrate Black History Month. A Journey to Freedom is a powerful new art exhibition at the Motor House exploring themes of resilience and liberation. blackwomanwelder@gmail.com
Momma’s Safe Haven
Support DC youth. The 12th Annual Momma’s Safe Haven DC’s Youth Got Talent Black History Showcase is February 28th at THE-ARC in SE. www.mommassafehaven.org
Black Nurses Awards Luncheon
Mark your calendar. The 45th Annual Salute to Black Nurses Awards Luncheon is March 1st at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt. www.bnaofgwdca.org
HU Alumni Club of Greater Washington
The Howard University Alumni Club of Greater Washington is offering academic scholarships to eligible Howard students. The deadline is February 28th. www.dcbison.org
Legal Aid
Maryland Legal Aid is hosting a free expungement and hiring clinic February 26th at the Druid Hill YMCA in Baltimore. www.mdlab.org
WHUR’s Community’s Choice
To get your non-profit on the air and web, email Renee Nash three weeks before your event at rnash@whur.com
We continue spotlighting things to do and see during Black History Month. A powerful documentary is airing next week highlighting a once thriving Black community in Montgomery County erased by urban renewal. Joining me this morning with the details is the film creator Curtis Crutchfield – Filmmaker
“My Linden, My Lyttonsville: An Untold Story” airs February 17th @ 9:30pm on WHUT TV. It’s a documentary highlighting how a once thriving Black community in Montgomery County was erased by Urban Renewal
Listen to this mornings segment here:
Sunday, February 23RD 6am – 6pm at the WHUR Studios – 529 Bryant Street, NW DC
The WHUR Helping Hands Radiothon helps to support the Howard University Alternative Spring Break (HUASB) Program in which students volunteer and render services in marginalized communities around the nation and world.
Alternative Spring Break gives Howard students the opportunity to volunteer in underserved communities developing valuable leadership skills and real-world experiences that prepare them for their future. Monies from the Helping Hands Radiothon help to pay for transportation, lodging, and food for 1,300 Howard University students.
Highlighting Black authors and exposing DMV youth to culturally relevant books. My guest this morning has an event coming up this month to do just that. It’s the Black History Month Literary Weekend In the DMV and it all goes down in Prince George’s County. My guest is Dr. Rhonda Lawson – Founder of the Black History Month Literary Weekend
9th Annual Ivory & Cream Affair Literary Weekend and Jazz Brunch is Saturday, February 22nd from 11am to 2pm at Harborside Hotel in Oxon Hill. For more information go here: www.mtwimagesolutions.com
Listen to this mornings segment here:
Washington, D.C. (Tuesday, February 11, 2025) – Most students across the DMV will get to sleep in Wednesday courtesy of “Old Man Winter.” The latest winter storm to blanket the region has forced most school systems to cancel classes for Wednesday. Check out the full list below:
Alexandria City Public Schools – closed
Anne Arundel County Public Schools – closed
Arlington County Public Schools – closed
Baltimore City Public Schools – Closed
Baltimore County Public Schools – closed
Calvert County Public Schools – closed
Charles County Public Schools – closed
Culpepper County Public Schools – closed
DC Public Schools – closed
Falls Church City Public Schools – closed
Fairfax County Public Schools – closed
Federal Government – 2 hour delay
Fredericksburg City PUblic Schools (VA) – closed
Howard University – REMOTE OPERATIONS for Wednesday
Loudoun County Public Schools – closed
Manassas City Public Schools – closed
Manassas Park City Public Schools – closed
Montgomery County Public Schools – closed
Prince George’s County Public Schools – closed
Prince William County Public Schools – closed
Saint Mary’s County Public Schools – closed
Spotsylvania County Public Schools – closed
Stafford County Public Schools – closed
As of February 11, 2025 7:15 pm
Alexandria City Public Schools All Virtual
Arlington County Public Schools Closed Tomorrow
Berkeley County Public Schools Closed Tomorrow
Burgundy Farm Country Day School Closed Today and Tomorrow
CentroNia DC Closed Tomorrow
CentroNia MD Closed Tomorrow
Charles County Public Schools Closed Tomorrow
Christ Chapel Academy Closed Tomorrow
Christ Episcopal School Closed Tomorrow
Community College Prep Academy All Virtual
Core Health and Wellness Center Closed Tomorrow
Culpeper County Public Schools Closed Tomorrow
DC Public Library Closed Today
Dorchester County Public Schools Closed Tomorrow
Edgewood Baptist Church DC Closed Tomorrow
Fairfax Baptist Temple Academy Closed Tomorrow
Fairfax Christian School Closed Tomorrow
Fairfax County Public Schools Closed Tomorrow
Falls Church City Public Schools Closed Tomorrow
Fauquier County JDR Closed Tomorrow
Fauquier County Schools Closed Tomorrow
Fauquier General District Court Closed Tomorrow
FAZ Child Daycare and Learning Center Closed Tomorrow
Field School Closed Tomorrow
Foxcroft School Delayed 1 hour
Frederick County VA Public Schools Closed Tomorrow
Grover Place Closed Tomorrow
GW Community School Closed Tomorrow
Highland School Closed Tomorrow
Howard Univ. M.S. of Math & Science Closed Today and Tomorrow
Howard University All Virtual
Ivymount School Closed Tomorrow
King George Combined Courts Closed Tomorrow
King George County Schools Closed Tomorrow
Lab School of Washington Closed Tomorrow
Loudoun Country Day School Closed Tomorrow
Loudoun County Public Schools Closed Tomorrow
Manassas City Public Schools Closed Tomorrow
Manassas Park City Public Schools Closed Tomorrow
Matthew’s Center for Visual Learning Closed Tomorrow
Montessori School of McLean Closed Tomorrow
Montgomery County Public Schools Closed Tomorrow
My Sweet Baby Learning Center Closed Tomorrow
Northern Virginia Community College Closed Tomorrow
Orange County Schools Closed Tomorrow
Prince George’s County Public Schools Closed Tomorrow
Prince William County Public Schools Closed Tomorrow
Providence Academy – Leesburg, VA Closed Tomorrow
Rappahannock Community College Closed Tomorrow
Salisbury University Opening at 10:00 AM Tomorrow
Shenandoah County Public Schools VA Closed Tomorrow
Spotsylvania County Public Schools Closed Tomorrow
Spotsylvania Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court Closed Tomorrow
Stafford County Government Delayed 2 hours
Stafford County Public Schools Closed Tomorrow
Sydenstricker United Methodist Closed Today and Tomorrow
Talbot County Public Schools All Virtual
The Maddux School Closed Tomorrow
The Tidewater School Closed Tomorrow
Univ. of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) Opening at 10:00 AM Tomorrow
University of Mary Washington Closed Tomorrow
Virginia Academy Closed Tomorrow
Virginia Regional Transit Closed Tomorrow
Warren County Schools All Virtual
Westminster School Closed Tomorrow
Winchester Public Schools Delayed 2 hours
We continue our commitment for Black History Month spotlighting events and happenings across the DMV that are elevating the culture. This morning a powerful exhibit is open at the Motor House in Baltimore. I have the talented artist with me to tell us all about her latest creation. My guest is Freedom Jones – Artist and Activist
A Journey to Freedom is a powerful new art exhibition at the Motor House. Through striking welded sculptures, blown glass, and film, the exhibit explores themes of resilience, liberation, and the fight for freedom. For more information go here: blackwomanwelder@gmail.com
Listen to this mornings segment here:
PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY (Tuesday, February 11, 2025) – A boil water advisory is in place for some customers in Prince George’s County because of a water main break. WSSC says the impacted areas now including communities North and East of MD 4 along with all areas South of Maryland Route 4.
The problem is also forcing some schools in the impacted areas to close immediately. Prince George’s County Public Schools just released the following list of schools that are now closing:
Washington, D.C. (Tuesday, February 11, 2025) – The Washington region is bracing for as much as 8 inches of snow starting this afternoon. That means schools are having to make some adjustments to get ahead of the storm. Below is a listing of what’s closing early, not opening at all, or will be delayed Tuesday.
Alexandria City Public Schools – operating on a half-day schedule
Anne Arundel County Public Schools – virtual learning
Arlington County Public Schools – closed
Calvert County Public Schools – closing two hours early
Charles County Public Schools – closing two hours early
Culpeper County Public Schools – closed
Fairfax County Public Schools – closing three hours early
Fauquier County Public Schools – closed
Loudoun County Public Schools – closing three hours early
Prince George’s County Public Schools – closing two hours early
Prince William County Public Schools – closing two hours early
Stafford County Public Schools – closed
It’s that time of year again. Time for DC youth to show the DMV your amazing gifts and talents. Momma’s Safe Haven is looking for youngsters to blaze the stage for its annual event coming up at THE ARC. My guest this morning is Beverly Smith – Founder and Executive Director of Momma’s Safe Haven
The 12th Annual Momma’s Safe Haven DC’s Youth Got Talent Black History Showcase is February 28th from 6pm to 9pm at THEARC in SE. Looking for youth dance teams, marching bands, models, singers, rappers, actors and more. For more information go here: www.mommassafehaven.org
Listen to this mornings segment here:
The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 in Super Bowl LIX, denying the Chiefs a third consecutive Super Bowl victory.
Jalen Hurts led the Eagles with a strong performance, completing 17 of 22 passes for 221 yards and a touchdown, while also rushing for 72 yards and a score.
The Eagles’ defense dominated the game, sacking Patrick Mahomes six times and intercepting him twice.
Philadelphia’s victory marked their second Vince Lombardi Trophy, with a final score of 40-22.
Thank you for making a difference!
February 6th :Tarik “Konshens The MC” Davis
Native Washingtonian, Tarik “Konshens The MC” Davis – is an International hip-hop artist, songwriter, Global Arts Educator, Youth advocate & Inspirational Speaker from Washington D.C. He is Founder & CEO of Edutainment Unlimited LLC (Arts Education/Entertainment Co.) former Governor on the Grammy Chapter Board, current Voting Member of the Grammy Recording Academy, Grammy Museum Artist Educator, UNCCD Land Ambassador, U.S Cultural Ambassador (State Department) 2022 Kennedy Center Next 50 Honoree & 2023 Presidential Service Award Recipient. Founder of Edutainment Unlimited an organization that specializes in providing arts integrated workshops for youth with disabilities and IEP’s, filtering them into work based employment opportunities post program completion. Servicing over a thousand DC based youth. He is also the MC and founder of ‘Classically Dope’, a classical, hip-hop group merging Poetry and Hip-Hop with original classical arrangements. Konshens has been featured at Carnegie Hall and the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts. He has been a highlighted performer on FOX, ABC and CBS networks as well as the Washington Post, Washingtonian Magazine and the Washington Wizards. www.konshens.com/edutainment
February 13th: YahZarah
YahZarah is a dynamic singer/songwriter celebrated for her extraordinary voice, electrifying stage presence, and genre-defying artistry spanning soul, rock, pop, hip-hop, and jazz. Lauded as one of the greatest voices of her generation, she evokes comparisons to Janelle Monáe and Janis Joplin, while channeling the energy of Tina Turner and Prince. Her latest album, The Ceremony, blends fiery rock and soul with immersive instrumentation, showcasing her artistic evolution. A founding member of The Foreign Exchange, YahZarah co-penned the BBC’s Song of the Year “Sincere” and contributed to the Grammy-nominated Leave It All Behind. She has shared stages with legends like Prince, Anderson Paak, and The Roots and was the exclusive opener for Anthony Hamilton’s “Playing It Cool Tour.” Her iconic performances include singing for Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, performing the national anthems for the Yankees, and captivating audiences at the Apollo Theater and NPR’s Tiny Desk Tour. Most recently, she was honored as an Apollo Theater Icon and performed at the Kennedy Center Honors’ Beyond the Broadcast. YahZarah’s journey began as a soprano in Erykah Badu’s band, “Camp Wisdom,” before touring with Lenny Kravitz and contributing to Madonna’s Madame X. Her prior album, The Ballad of Purple Saint James, earned Grammy consideration in six categories. She now ventures into acting, starring in Kameko Tarnez’s Protector of the Gods. With The Ceremony and exciting new projects, YahZarah continues to inspire, proving that resilience and artistry are the keys to a transformative legacy.
February 20th:Antwon “Noochie” Vincent
Antwon “Noochie” Vincent is a rapper, producer, and visionary from Southeast Washington, D.C., known for blending hip-hop, go-go, and R&B into an authentic and raw musical experience. As the son of OneWay Boobe, a pioneer in the D.C. rap scene, Noochie was raised in a household that embraced both music and entrepreneurship, laying the foundation for his creative journey.
Noochie is the creator and executive producer of Live From the Front Porch, a groundbreaking live performance series that has featured artists such as Chance the Rapper, Anderson .Paak, Cordae, and Robin Thicke. Recognized by BET for its impact on hip-hop’s live performance culture and acknowledged by Rolling Stone for its growing influence, the platform has become a vital space for artists to showcase their craft in an unfiltered, intimate setting.
Beyond his work as a curator, Noochie has built an impressive career as a recording artist. His projects, including Product of the DMV and the Sneaky Tape series, highlight his lyrical depth, storytelling, and deep connection to his city’s culture. His presence in the industry reached new heights in 2024 when he attended the Grammy Awards for his contribution to Kings From Queens: The Run-DMC Story, which was nominated for Best Music Film.
With a major Live From the Front Porch showcase set for the Kennedy Center and the upcoming Front Porch Festival, Noochie continues to push boundaries, blending music, culture, and community in ways that redefine independent artistry. His work not only represents the sound of D.C. but also its resilience, innovation, and ever-evolving legacy.
February 27th: Angel Gregorio
Angel Gregorio is one of the District of Columbia’s most recognized Next-Gen, black female entrepreneurs and influencers of our time.
Community Servant. Innovator. Philanthropist. Disruptor.
Angel is the founder and owner of The Spice Suite, a growing community-centric spice boutique, located in the city’s Takoma Park community. The Spice Suite is aimed at not only providing its patrons with unique, interactive culinary experiences, but was also established with a mission to support and empower other local grass-root business owners to maximize their own potential and success. As a way to pay it forward and support fellow dreamers, Angel offers space at The Spice Suite for pop-up shops, free of charge. No fine print. No commission.
Since embarking on her self-proclaimed “food is fashion” journey, Angel and her business have been featured on a variety of local and national media platforms, such as The Drew Barrymore Show, Essence Magazine, BET, Travel & Leisure, Bon Appetit and VICE News.
Born in DC, Angel attended DC public schools. She graduated from Benjamin Banneker Academic High School and earned both Bachelor and Master’s degrees in Psychology and Counseling Psychology, respectively, from Howard University.
Angel has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to improving the lives of the city’s most at-risk and vulnerable youth and families. Prior to launching her entrepreneurial career, Angel worked in educational leadership and youth advocacy roles as a teacher at the Oak Hill Youth Academy, and as a counselor, and later Vice Principal, at a DC Charter School. She is co-founder of DC Natives Day, an official holiday recognized by Mayor Muriel Bowser to recognize and highlight the presence and contributions of DC Natives to the culture and fabric of Washington, DC., and now owns Black + Forth, the city’s first Black-owned strip mall offering community education and affordable commercial space for Black business owners.
Howard University Professor Kiah Duggins passed away on January 29th. In a statement released by Howard University and Howard University School of Law, she was among those lost in the mid-air plane collision at Reagan National Airport.
The statement continues, “Professor Duggins was set to begin a new chapter as a professor at Howard University School of Law this fall.
As a civil rights lawyer, she dedicated her career to fighting against unconstitutional policing and unjust money bail practices in Tennessee, Texas and Washington, D.C.
We ask for privacy and respect for Professor Duggins’ family, students, and colleagues during this difficult time. Plans to honor her legacy will be shared in coming days.
We encourage our community to seek any support they may need. Those resources can be found on the graphic above.”
The WHUR 96.3 family sends love, strength, and prayers to all those affected by this tragedy. Wishing comfort as they navigate this difficult journey of loss and healing.
Celebrating the culture that seems to influence others but is often left behind. Knowing there are more than nine black-owned beauty brands, these are just some that are being highlighted.
All of their stories are similar, being created because of the lack of representation in the beauty industry. Each of their journeys created their empires to make them household names.
The Lip Bar -The self-made CEO, Melissa Butler, rejected on Shark Tank, reclaimed her power, used her frustration, and took a leap into her Brooklyn kitchen to whip up vibrant vegan lipstick.
She grew The Lip Bar beyond lipstick to TLB an award-winning minimal-effort beauty must-haves for all.
Found in Target Stores, Walmart Stores, CVS Stores, Meijer stores, Amazon and their Flagship Store in Downtown Detroit.
Danessa Myricks Beauty – Danessa Myricks is a significant figure in the beauty industry, known for her innovative approach to makeup and her entrepreneurial spirit. Her journey into makeup artistry began out of necessity and evolved into a passion. Originally working in the medical field, Danessa found herself as a single mother of two needing a more flexible job. She transitioned into a career in publishing, focusing on the beauty industry. This exposed her to the world of makeup, where she rapidly developed a passion for the creative possibilities’ makeup offered.
Found in Sephora and on Amazon
Juvia’s Place – Founder Chichi Eburu struggled to find makeup suited for her deep skin tone. What was available were muted colors and products that didn’t enhance the true richness of her skin tone.
Eburu started by selling makeup tools, the easiest way to enter the beauty industry and raise capital for her broader goal– a desire to make makeup that looked gorgeous on dark, deep skin tones. As she continued to grow her beauty tools business, she fortified the vision board for Juvia’s Place.
Found in Ulta
Ami Colé – (Ah-me Co-lay) Created out of beauty because before, there was nothing out there that really saw us. With years of industry experience behind us, we knew that something was missing for melanin-rich skin. So we put pen to paper, made mood boards, and assembled a team to create skincare to surpass the superficial.
Found in Sephora
Pound Cake Cosmetics – Camille Bell created Pound Cake because she saw the need for a revolution in how cosmetic companies produce and market color cosmetics. There was a tweet that went viral a few years ago calling on the beauty industry to make lipsticks that show up as advertised on all skin tones. This tweet spoke to her because she battled with lipsticks looking different on than expected (if they show up at all). Cosmetic companies don’t understand that it is not only skin tone but also lip tone that affects the way products show up on people. After realizing this, she fought hard to build this offering to us.
Found in ULTA
Fashion Fair – Founded in 1973 by the incomparable Eunice Johnson, Fashion Fair was the first international prestige cosmetics brand for darker skin tones sold globally in stores from Neiman Marcus to Printemps. The brand broke racial barriers in business, and boldly established a new affirmation of Black beauty.
Found in Macy’s
Fenty Beauty – Rihanna was inspired to create the world of Fenty Beauty brands after years of partnering with the best of the best in the beauty industry—and still seeing a void for products that performed across all skin tones + type and hair textures.
Found in Sephora
Bossy Cosmetics – Aisha has always described herself as a “lipstick junkie” and never imagined that she’d start a global beauty brand when she started her career in finance over 20 years ago. She worked for several years as an investment banker and finance executive in the US, UK, Central and South America, and Sub-Saharan Africa. She’s also founded a children’s play and activity center called Paloo’s Place and a media project which showcased successful African women called African HERstory.
Found in Nordstrom
Blk/Opl – Created in 1994 as a love letter from a brilliant chemist to his Jamaican wife, who struggled to find cosmetics that matched her skin tone and supported her skin health. They developed a brand designed for melanin-rich skin with a renowned dermatologist.
With the introduction of Shade ID™ Technology, paired with formulations addressing concerns like oiliness, hyperpigmentation, and blemishes, BLK/OPL quickly became a global favorite among makeup artists.
Found in Ulta, Walmart, & CVS Pharmarcy
Washington, D.C. (Thursday, January 30, 2025) – Even as a massive effort is underway to recover the bodies of those killed in that mid-air disaster near Reagan National Airport Wednesday night plunging dozens into the icy waters of the Potomac River, President Trump today wasted no time inserting politics into the equation. At an 11 a.m. press conference from the White House, Trump pointed the finger of blame at policies from previous Democratic administrations for how and why the collision happened.
Trump blamed former Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden for what he called their failed DEI policies within the FAA and adding those policies put unqualified air traffic controllers in the workplace. “They put politics at a level that nobody’s ever seen because this was the lowest level. Their policy was horrible and their politics was even worse. You have to be talented naturally talented geniuses. You can’t have regular people doing that job. They won’t be able to do it,” said Trump.
There were no survivors of the American Airlines regional jet and the US Army Black Hawk Helicopter. 67 people are presumed dead. The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation into the cause of the collision. But several reports indicate both pilots of the American Airlines Flight 5342 and the military helicopter would have been used to navigating the complex airspace into Reagan National Airport.
Among the dead are several members of the figure skating community who were aboard the jet, returning from a developmental camp in Wichita, according to US Figure Skating.
Fairfax County Public Schools issued a statement today saying it has lost members of its FCPS family in the crash. In the statement from Superintendent Michelle Reid, she said “I invite you to join me in praying for our families, friends, and colleagues, that we know have lost loved ones in this tragic accident.” It is not clear if those who perished are students, teachers, or staff.
The Skating Club of Boston named six victims on the plane.
64 people were on the jet and 3 soldiers were on the Army Black Hawk helicopter. Emergency responders from DC, Maryland, and Virginia are participating in the recovery. So far, 28 bodies have been pulled from the waters.
Heads Up for my housing providers. Housing Counseling Services is offering some reminders and refresher information to make sure you are staying in compliance with local fair housing laws. My guest is Ronald Clarkson – Program Director for Housing Counseling Services, Inc.
Housing Counseling Services can support housing providers in the DMV in educating your team about local fair housing laws and how they impact your housing consumers. Call 202-667-7715. For more information go her: www.housingetc.org
Listen to this mornings segment here:
UPDATE: January 30
No survivors expected onboard the American Airlines jet and Army helicopter that collided mid-air Wednesday night near Reagan Airport plunging both into the Potomac River. 28 of the 67 bodies were recovered. Victims include American and Russian figure skaters.
Search and rescue efforts continue in the Potomac River for those onboard American Airlines flight 5342 and an Army helicopter. The two collided midair near Reagan Airport. 64 on the plane. 3 in the helicopter. Loved ones should call 800-679-8215. DCA is closed until 11 am.
ORIGINAL: January 29
DC Fire and EMS are investigating a plane crash into the Potomac River near Reagan National Airport. The department posted on the social media platform X that small plane went down around 9PM. The Federal Aviation Administration is reporting that a U.S. Army Blackhawk helicopter collided with American Airlines flight #5342, a small passenger plane from Wichita, Kansas, before the plane went into the river. The passenger jet had 60 passengers and crew of four. There were three people on the military Blackhawk helicopter. All flights at Reagan National Airport have been stopped as a result of the incident.
Anthony Mackie recently clarified his comments about Captain America, emphasizing his pride in taking on the shield of the hero and his respect for those who serve the country.
Mackie took to Instagram, “Let me be clear about this, I’m a proud American and taking on the shield of a hero like CAP is the honor of a lifetime. I have the utmost respect for those who serve and have served our country.”
The actor believes that Captain America represents universal characteristics that people worldwide can relate to. Mackie expressed his excitement about portraying a character with honor, dignity, and integrity, highlighting the importance of fulfilling childhood dreams in his acting career.
In the upcoming film “Captain America: Brave New World,” Mackie’s character, Sam, navigates a complex relationship with the U.S. government, continuing the character’s tradition of challenging authority. The movie is set to release in theaters on Feb. 14.
RESOURCES: https://unitedwaynca.org/
AP News reports the funding freeze could affect trillons of dollars in healthcare research, education programs and other initiatives. Even grants that have been awarded but not spent are supposed to be halted.
The Trump administration has frozen government funding for healthcare programs until agencies review their compliance with recent executive orders, causing concern in the industry. The freeze could impact healthcare providers nationwide, including Medicaid funding to states.
The vague wording and details from White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt of the freeze have left experts unsure of which healthcare, Head Start, and many other programs will be affected. The move could potentially halt billions of dollars in payments to health centers, hospitals, and research groups.
The legality of the freeze is being questioned, as it may conflict with the Impoundment Control Act of 1974.
Donald Trump signed an executive order directing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to revise the Pentagon’s policy on transgender troops, likely setting in motion a future ban on their military service.
Trump also ordered troops to be reinstated who had left voluntarily or been booted for refusing COVID-19 vaccines, outlined new rollbacks in diversity programs, and provided for the deployment of a space-based missile defense shield for the U.S. Trump’s order on transgender troops sets the stage for a future ban, citing conflicts with military readiness.
The order also includes plans for a space-based missile defense system and reinstatement of troops who refused COVID-19 vaccines. The order also abolishes diversity, equity, and inclusion programs across the Defense Department and Coast Guard, aiming to eliminate race-based preferences and divisive concepts.
Transgender rights advocacy groups are planning to file a lawsuit against President Trump’s executive order targeting transgender service members, marking the first legal challenge to this policy.
The order, which questions the suitability of transgender individuals for military service, is being contested by GLAD Law and the National Center For Lesbian Rights on constitutional grounds. The order prohibits the use of pronouns in the military but leaves unanswered questions about the fate of transgender soldiers currently serving.
This legal action represents a significant pushback against Trump’s conservative agenda at the Pentagon.
Something fun, engaging, and educational for the kids to do this weekend as we move into Black History Month. The Overdue Recognition Art Gallery is hosting a free event to support its non-profit. My guest is Jackie Thompson – Founder and Owner of the Overdue Recognition Art Gallery
Overdue Recognition Art Gallery in the Bowie Town Center is hosting a children’s handprint event Saturday, February 1st and Sunday, February 2nd to remember Dr. King during Black History Month. www.orag.com
Listen to this mornings segment here:
Black Nurses
The Black Nurses Association of Greater Washington invites you to their 45th Annual Salute to Black Nurse Awards Luncheon March 1st at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt. www.bnaofgwdca.org
National Battery Day
February 18th is National Battery Day. Get the facts on how to properly dispose, store, and care for batteries to avoid damage and injuries. www.pwcva.gov/disposalguide
Momma’s Safe Haven
Momma’s Safe Haven presents it’s the 11th Annual DC’s Youth Got Talent Black History Showcase February 26th at THE-ARC. Sponsors and volunteers are need.www.momassafehaven.org
National Museum of African American History and Culture
The National Museum of African American History and Culture celebrates Black History Month with a series of public programs and events. Come out to immerse yourself in the culture. www.nmaahc.si.edu/blackhistorymonth
Red Cross
Be a part of helping to save lives. The American Red Cross is in need of blood donors of all types. www.redcrossblood.org
Red Dress Event
Get heart healthy. The 17th Annual DMV Links Red Dress Event is February 7th on Facebook Live. www.dmvlinksreddress.org
Housing Counseling Services, Inc.
Learn the facts. Housing Counseling Services, Inc. can support housing providers in the DMV in educating your team about local fair housing. www.housingetc.org.
WHUR Community’s Choice
Do you have a non-profit you want the community to know about? Email Renee Nash at rnash@whur.com at least three weeks before your event.
Parents we are getting you summer ready. The Montgomery County Department of Recreation says registration begins today (January 21st) for its Summer Camp Programs for kids. My guest is Monika Hammer – Communications and Public Outreach Manager for the Montgomery County Recreation Department
Registration is now open for the Montgomery County Department of Recreation Summer Programs. You can check out the guide at www.montgomerycountymd.gov
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ABC News reports,The Republican Party’s Laken Riley Act, aimed at cracking down on illegal immigration, is set to be the first bill signed into law by President Donald Trump after the GOP regained control of Congress and the White House.
The bill passed the House and Senate with bipartisan support, but faced opposition from Democrats who raised concerns about deporting individuals accused but not convicted of crimes. The legislation includes measures to deport illegal immigrants who assault police officers or cause serious harm to others, and allows states to sue the Department of Homeland Security over harm caused by illegal immigration.
The bill is named after Laken Riley, a nursing student killed while out on a run. The suspect Jose Ibarra, 26 an illegal immigrant who pled not guilty, was previously arrested in New York. Ibarra was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole after being found guilty of all charges.
Riley’s case has become a focal point of the GOP’s efforts to address border security and immigration issues in line with Trump’s agenda.
New information for my entrepreneurs this morning. There’s a program to help you take your business to the next level. It’s called ELEVATE and applications are now being accepted. My guest this morning is Steve Glaude – President and CEO of the Coalition for Non-Profit and Economic Development
The Executive Leadership Education Venture Advancing Talented Entrepreneurs or ELEVATE program provides minority-owned businesses in DC with new skills that allow them to more effectively manage their business, products, and services. It is the only minority executive education program in DC backed by a university partner. For more information go here: www.cnhed.org/elevate
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https://www.healingoutloudllc.com/
https://iwanttoberestored.com/
You’re not alone 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Free · Confidential · Hours: Available 24 hours
It’s a Wellness Wednesday and this morning help on the way for young single moms in DC struggling to make ends meet. It’s called the Dove House and it will provide free living expenses to help these ladies get on their feet. My guest is Jean Drummond – Founder and Executive Director of the Dove House
The ribbon cutting ceremony for Dove House is Saturday, January 25th from 12pm to 2pm at 25 Brandywine Street NW. Dove House is designed to support and uplift single mothers on their path to stability and success. For more information go here: www.dove-house.org
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Washington, D.C. (Wednesday, January 22, 2025) – It’s another frigid day across the Washington, D.C. area . The temperatures are not expected to rise above freezing meaning some of those icy patches on sidewalks and roadways are sticking around. Schools officials across the region aren’t taking any chances and are making the start time for thousands of students a bit later Wednesday. Below is a listing of closings and delays.
Maryland School Systems
Anne Arundel County Public Schools -2 hour delay
Frederick County (MD) Public Schools – 2 hour delay
Howard County Public Schools – 2 hour delay
Montgomery County Public Schools – 2 hour delay
Prince George’s County Public Schools – 2 hour delay
St. Mary’s County Public Schools – 2 hour delay
Virginia School Systems
Alexandria Public Schools – 2 hour delay
Arlington County Public Schools – 2 hour delay
Fairfax County Public Schools – 2 hour delay
Falls Church City Public Schools – 2 hour delay
Fauquier County Public Schools – 2 hour delay
Frederick County (VA) Public Schools – CLOSED
Loudoun County Public Schools – 2 hour delay
Stafford County Public Schools – 2 hour delay
Nelly performed at Donald Trump’s Liberty Inaugural Ball, where he sang a medley of his hit songs. The event also featured performances by artists like Billy Ray Cyrus and The Village People. Reactions to Nelly’s performance were mixed, with some praising him and others criticizing his choice to perform at a Trump event.
Nelly defended his decision, stating that it was an honor to perform for the president regardless of political views. Other hip-hop artists also performed at Trump events in the days leading up to the inauguration, including Snoop Dogg, Rick Ross, and Souljah Boy.
Snoop Dogg’s Martin Luther King Jr. tribute post has sparked backlash following his performance at Donald Trump’s inauguration event. The post, shared on MLK Day, featured clips of MLK speeches and quotes, but many criticized Snoop for seemingly endorsing Trump.
Critics questioned how MLK would have viewed Snoop’s support of Trump, with some pointing to Snoop’s past comments about the former president. The post intensified criticism of Snoop’s performance at the inauguration event, with some comparing him to other artists who have stood by their principles.
