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Walk For Mental Health

It’s a Wellness Wednesday and this morning we are grabbing the sneakers for an upcoming Mental Health Awareness Walk in BowieIt’s hosted in part by the ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. My guest this morning is Brandy Wimbish – Mental Health Therapist

The Bowie Mitchellville Diamond Foundation, The Ivy Community Charities of Prince George’s County, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Kaiser Permanente, and Bowie Police are joining forces for a Mental Health Awareness Walk Saturday, May 3rd at Allen Pond Park from 9am to 11am. For more information go here: info@bmackapsi.org

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Mothers, Daughters, and Music: Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Tour Launches with Emotional Family Tribute

Beyoncé launched her *Cowboy Carter* Tour in Los Angeles with heartwarming onstage appearances by daughters Blue Ivy and Rumi, celebrating family, legacy, and the Black roots of country music.

Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter and the Rodeo Chitlin’ Circuit Tour at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles featured special appearances by her daughters, Blue Ivy and Rumi. Rumi, 7, made her stage debut during the performance of “Protector,” joining her mother and sister onstage.

Blue Ivy, 13, danced during “America Has a Problem” and also appeared in performances of “Déjà Vu” and “Texas Hold ’Em.” The show included a heartwarming montage of Beyoncé with her children displayed on the stadium screens.

Blue Ivy had previously joined Beyoncé on stage during a Christmas Day performance in Houston for the halftime show at the Texans-Ravens NFL game, which garnered 27 million U.S. viewers on Netflix.

The tour follows the success of Beyoncé’s hit single “Texas Hold ’Em” and her Grammy wins for Cowboy Carter, including Album of the Year.

The Cowboy Carter tour launched in Los Angeles and spans 32 dates globally, celebrating the Black roots of country music. The setlist includes songs from her eighth album, collaborations with artists like Miley Cyrus and Post Malone, and renditions of classics such as “Blackbird” and “Jolene.” Beyoncé announced the tour in February after postponing it due to wildfires.

Mental Health Training Certification

This morning we are shining the spotlight on efforts underway to address the Maternal Mental Health Crisis in the Black community.  The Greater Washington Urban League has a training program to help tackle the crisis. My guest is Dr. Hanna Tessema, Director of Health and Wellness at Greater Washington Urban League

Greater Washington Urban League hosting their 2nd Annual Perinatal Mental Health Certification Program (May 7-9).  to meaningfully expand the pool of Black health professionals able to serve birthing mothers with a culturally affirming and effective approach. For more information go here:  www.gwul.org

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Students Performance of DreamGirls

Celebrating music, ambition and perseverance.  Get ready for a spectacular Spring production of DreamGirls.  The performers are student at  Kipp DC Legacy College Prep.  Joining me this morning to tell us all about the upcoming musical is Eboni-Thair Lewis – Director of Musical Theater Department and Dance/Studio Fitness Instructor at Kipp Legacy College Prep

The DreamGirls Musical Performance will take place at Kipp Legacy College Prep Auditorium on Friday, May 2nd at 6pm and Saturday, May 3rd at 12pm.

 For more information go here: https://www.kippdc.org/kipp-dc-public-schools/high-school/kipp-dc-legacy-college-prep/

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WHUR World Tour: A Journey from Dubai’s Dunes to Seychelles’ Shores

WHUR World Tour

The WHUR World Tour with Advantage International delivered an unforgettable adventure, blending thrilling exploration with pure relaxation. Our journey began in Dubai, where the golden desert welcomed us with exhilarating 4×4 rides over towering dunes. As the sun set, we immersed ourselves in a magical Bedouin camp experience, complete with henna art, belly dancers, and dining under the stars.

We marveled at Dubai’s sparkling skyline from a traditional dhow cruise, explored the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, and soared to new heights atop the Burj Khalifa. Old Dubai offered rich cultural insights, while the futuristic marvels of the Dubai Aquarium dazzled our senses.

Then, paradise called. In Seychelles, we slowed down and embraced the island spirit. From the lush beauty of Praslin Island’s ancient palms to peaceful bike rides past vanilla fields and encounters with century-old tortoises, every moment was a reminder of nature’s timeless magic. Spa days, sunset celebrations, and barefoot dances beneath the palms sealed the memories.

Through every moment from desert dunes to island dreams, this journey was pure magic.

Next stop: Colombia, October 21–29! Don’t miss the adventure of a lifetime!

Mother, Muse, Matriarch: Tina Knowles Gets Candid About Life, Love, and Loss

In Matriarch, Tina Knowles reveals how Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s relationship began as a friendship built on mutual support, evolving into a powerful union rooted in love, family, and resilience.

AP Tina Knowles

In her heartfelt memoir Matriarch, Tina Knowles opens up about the early stages of Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s relationship, revealing that the iconic couple began as friends who supported each other through their musical journeys.

Their bond first blossomed in the early 2000s through long phone conversations about the challenges and triumphs of life in the music industry. Although Beyoncé faced uncertainty and had another suitor at the time, she ultimately chose Jay-Z, marking the beginning of a deep connection that united the Carter and Knowles families.

The couple’s 2008 wedding was an intimate, private affair held in their home, reflecting their desire to nurture their relationship away from the spotlight. Tina emphasizes how family unity has remained a cornerstone of their enduring love story.

In Matriarch, Knowles also reflects on raising her gifted daughters under the public eye and the powerful lessons she learned from them. She shares how she instilled confidence, encouraged their dreams, and stood beside them as they carved their own paths.

Tina writes movingly about the support she received from her daughters during her battle with breast cancer, highlighting the strength of their bond and the joy she’s found in motherhood.

She also dedicates a poignant portion of her memoir to her late nephew, “Uncle Johnny,” a beloved and influential figure in Beyoncé’s life. Johnny, an openly gay, talented seamstress embraced by the drag community, left an indelible mark on their family and Beyoncé’s artistry, especially in her Renaissance album.

Tina honors Johnny’s legacy, sharing his struggles with HIV and the love, creativity, and resilience he brought to their lives. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-acceptance and belonging.

Through candid storytelling and touching tributes, Matriarch offers readers a rare glimpse into the heart of one of music’s most iconic families—and the woman who helped shape it.

Fun Things To Do In Prince George’s County

Spotlighting some fun things to do for you and the kids this weekend in Prince George’s County.  The Department of Parks and Recreation is rolling out a host of events this Saturday from a Kinderfest to an HBCU Experience for Teens. My guest is Alex Brown – Communications and Marketing Manager with the Prince George’s Department of Parks and Recreation

The M-NCPPC, Prince George’s County Department of Parks and Recreation announces events and festivals for April, including April 26th Kinderfest @ Watkins Regional Park, the Ultimate HBCU Experience @ Southern Area Aquatics and Recreation Complex, and the Herb, Tea & Arts Festival @ Montpelier House Museum.  All events are free.  For more information go here: www.pgparks.com

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Millions Face Wage Garnishment as Federal Loan Collections Resume

AP Department Of Education

According to New York Post, the Trump administration announced plans to seize wages, pensions, and tax refunds of individuals who default on federal student loans. The Department of Education will resume collections on defaulted federal student loans on May 5, potentially garnishing wages for millions of workers.

The Treasury Offset Program will be reinstated, allowing the government to withhold tax refunds and federal benefits to recover unpaid student loans and potentially garnish wages after a 30-day notice.

Roughly 10 million borrowers could be affected by the collections process, with wage garnishment notices expected to follow this summer. 5.3 million borrowers have been in default for more than a year, with some cases exceeding seven years.

The announcement comes amidst a turbulent time for the Department of Education, with layoffs and downsizing complicating borrowers’ ability to navigate their loans. Defaulted borrowers will be contacted before the deadline to set up repayment plans or loan rehabilitation.

President Trump has criticized President Biden’s ideas that would benefit the American people, signaling an end to potential loan forgiveness. The administration emphasizes the need for borrowers to repay their loans and rejects the idea of loan forgiveness.

The program will enforce repayment through various means, including withholding tax refunds and federal pensions. To avoid garnishment by seeking loan rehabilitation or repayment plans, as the Trump administration ends payment pauses.

Dealing With Stress and Depression

It’s a Wellness Wednesday and this morning details about a free event to help you address grief, stress, and disappointment. My guest is Dr. Fredricka Brooks-Davis – Executive Director and Founder of The Restoration Center

The Restoration Center Inc is hosting a free session that addresses, grief, stress, and disappointment.  Plus, there will be a Q&A for participants.   The event is Saturday, April 26th from 10am to 12pm.  For more information go here: www.iwanttoberestored.com

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CBS Cancels Poppa’s House After One Season Despite Star Power: Damon Wayans Sr. Reflects With Gratitude

CBS has canceled Poppa’s House after one season, prompting a heartfelt farewell from Damon Wayans Sr., who called the show “a beautiful journey” filled with love, laughter, and family.

AP Damon Wayans

CBS has decided not to renew the comedy series Poppa’s House for a second season, making it the only freshman scripted series to be canceled.

The show starred Damon Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr. The decision comes as CBS has renewed other series like Matlock, NCIS: Origins, and Watson, along with the comedy Georgie & Mandy First Marriage, for the upcoming season.

Poppa’s House had been competing for a spot on the network’s schedule with other pilots but ultimately lost out to a new project series called DMV. “DMV,” a single-camera comedy starring Harriett Dyer, Tim Meadows, Molly Kearney, and Alex Tarrant; and “Einstein,” a drama led by Gubler and Salazar.

Despite being a respectable performer, the show’s ratings were lower than other renewed comedies on CBS.

Damon Wayans Sr. gives a heartfelt tribute to the show, cast, and crew, he wrote on IG post, “Creating poppas house was such a beautiful journey. My heart is full as I say thank you to every single person who made Poppa’s House such a meaningful experience. To the incredible cast you brought so much heart, soul, and joy to every scene. It was an absolute honor to share the screen with you and create something special together. To the writers, producers, directors, and the entire crew you were the heartbeat of this show. Thank you for your dedication, your passion, and for showing up every day with love and commitment. You made the set feel like home.”

Giving a special thank you to his son, “Damon Jr., working beside you has been one of the greatest joys of my life. And to my incredible family, siblings, children, and grandchildren, nieces and nephews, who showed up as writers, guest stars, and creative forces, you made this journey even more meaningful. It’s such a blessing to have so much love on one set and to be able to create and laugh with family and friends.”

One of our favorite TV dads claims, “walking away with deep gratitude, lifelong friendships, and unforgettable memories. This show gave me more than I could’ve ever imagined.

“To everyone who watched, supported, and believed in us thank you. Your love means everything. On to the next chapter, with nothing but love in my heart”, he added.

Shannon Sharpe Responds To Rape Allegations And $50 Million Civil Lawsuit

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A woman, now being identified as Gabby, accusing Shannon Sharpe of rape. Audio has been released of a conversation where Sharpe threatens to ” f***ing choke the sh*t out” of her.

The conversation appears to show a dispute between the two, with Sharpe making aggressive statements. The context of the conversation is unclear, but the woman’s attorney describes it as disturbing and dangerous.

Sharpe’s attorney has denied the woman’s claims, calling them a “shakedown” for money. Despite the allegations, the former NFL player has since responded to the lawsuit, saying, “I’m gonna be open, transparent, and defend myself because this isn’t right. This is all being orchestrated by Tony Buzbee, who has targeted Jay-Z.”

The proprietor and host of the Club Shay Shay podcast adds, “Tony Buzbee targets black men, and I believe he’s going to release a 30-second clip of a sex tape that tries to make me look guilty and play into every stereotype you could possibly imagine. That video should actually be 10 minutes or so. Hey, Tony, instead of releasing your edit, put the whole video out. I don’t have it, or I would’ve myself.”

“The encounter in question took place during the day at her invitation, and now that appears to be a deliberate setup, coordinated by Gabby, also known as Karlie, on OnlyFans. Gabby and Tony Busby want $50 million. What they’re getting is sued for defamation and trying to take me down. My career is all about real talk and honesty,” Sharpe explained.

Why Sinners Is a Game-Changer for Black Cinema and Ryan Coogler’s Career

Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan Venture Into New Territory with Sinners

AP Ryan Coogler Michael B Jordan

Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan have built one of the most dynamic creative partnerships in modern cinema, with critically acclaimed films such as Fruitvale Station, Creed, and Black Panther under their belts. Now, the visionary duo reunites for their fifth collaboration—Sinners—a supernatural horror epic set in 1930s Mississippi.

In Sinners, Jordan takes on a challenging dual role as twin brothers who return to their Mississippi Delta hometown after serving in World War I, only to confront a growing threat of vampires. Blending gothic horror with rich musical elements, the film weaves a chilling tale that explores ancestral trauma, Southern Black culture, and spiritual resilience.

This marks Coogler and Jordan’s first major project outside the framework of an existing franchise, presenting a new creative frontier. Yet the hallmarks of their collaboration—emotional depth, cultural specificity, and compelling performances—remain intact. Sinners is a bold narrative departure, but one that reinforces their shared commitment to storytelling that resonates.

Adding to the film’s impact is Coogler’s groundbreaking deal with Warner Bros., which grants him a share of box office revenue prior to the studio’s profit margin, and full ownership of the film after 25 years. This unprecedented agreement echoes one of Sinners’ central themes: Black ownership and autonomy in creative spaces.

Visually, Sinners makes cinematic history as the first film shot simultaneously on IMAX 15-perf and Ultra Panavision 70 formats—setting a new bar for immersive storytelling. Musically, the film pays homage to the deep roots of Black music, using sound as a storytelling device that bridges generations and spiritual worlds.

At its core, Sinners challenges traditional horror tropes. Vampires serve as metaphors for inherited trauma and the burdens of history, while the film reclaims and re-centers hoodoo as a sacred, empowering spiritual tradition—eschewing harmful stereotypes in favor of authenticity and reverence.

The film debuted to critical acclaim and box office success, earning $45.5 million in its opening weekend and unseating A Minecraft Movie from the top spot. Jordan’s portrayal of the twin brothers has been widely praised, further solidifying his place as one of the most versatile actors of his generation.

Meanwhile, Coogler continues to expand his creative horizons, recently taking the reins of the upcoming X-Files reboot. With the blessing of original creator Chris Carter and early conversations with Gillian Anderson to return as Dana Scully, the reboot promises a fresh and diverse take on the cult sci-fi series.

With Sinners, Coogler and Jordan again prove that their creative synergy can redefine genres, challenge norms, and deliver powerful, culturally resonant cinema. This is not just another entry in their impressive filmography—it’s a milestone.

Pope Francis’s Funeral to Take Place on Saturday

AP Pope Francis

Pope Francis’ funeral arrangements have been announced following his death. The funeral will take place on Saturday, April 26, at 10 a.m. local time in St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City. The public viewing will begin on Wednesday, and the funeral Mass will follow a simplified ceremony approved by Francis.

In 2013, Pope Francis became the head of the Catholic Church until his untimely death. Flags are being flown at half-mast in several countries in remembrance of the pope, who passed away at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke following health issues related to a chronic lung disease.

World leaders, including Trump and French President Macron, are expected to attend the funeral to honor Francis’ legacy of service to the Church and the marginalized.

The Vatican announced the death of Pope Francis, marking the end of his dedicated life to the values of the Gospel and universal love. The process of selecting a new pope will now commence following the passing of Francis, the last pope to die in 20 years

Saving A Community Institution

TV Camera In Studio

A call to action this morning to help save Prince George’s Community Television (CTV).  The station is on the budget chopping block and efforts are underway to keep the 40-year-old television station afloat. My guest is Sandra Peaches – Executive Director of Prince George’s Community Television

Your voice matters! Urge the Prince George’s County Council to prioritize funding for CTV and protect local media. Let them know why CTV is essential to our community—providing career development, local news, and a platform for diverse voices. For more information go here: www.pgctv.org

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High School Students Wanted

An opportunity this morning to help our youth shine.  The DC Chapter of the NAACP is looking for upcoming high school students to compete in their ACT-SO program, an initiative to help youth thrive in a variety of disciplines. My guest is Alicia Henry – ACT-SO Chair of the Washington DC ACT-SO Program

The NAACP’s ACT-SO (Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological, and Scientific Olympics) Program is a yearlong enrichment program designed to recruit, stimulate, and encourage high academic and cultural achievement among African American high school students. For more information go here: www.naacpdc.org/actso

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UPDATE: Shooting At Florida State University

AP Florida State University

At least 4 people were shot today following an active shooting situation at Florida State University. Conflicting reports on whether the shooter is in custody. Police are on the scene. The shooting occurred in the area of the Student Union.

UPDATE:

Florida State University has canceled all home athletic events, including spring football practices and a baseball series, following an on-campus shooting that left two dead and several injured. The shooter, believed to be a student, used a former sheriff’s deputy’s service weapon.

Classes were canceled through Friday, and all athletic events were canceled through Sunday, including softball and golf. The university urged those on campus to shelter in place during the incident. 

IMMIGRATION INTIMIDATION: WHAT ARE YOUR RIGHTS?

The case has captured the headlines for weeks as his family continues to plea for his safe return.  The courts have said the Trump Administration needs to facilitate his trip back home, and a US Congress member is in El Salvador hoping to get the Maryland man released.  The lingering saga of Kilmer Abrego Garcia and why his case has garnered a rallying cry for justice and many wonder if they could be the next Abrego Garcia.

It’s an immigration law discussion and all the twists and turns as President Trump looks to deport American prisoners to El Salvador.  Joining me for the conversation are: 

Guest:  Dr. Oye Owolewa (Oh-yay Oh-woh-leh-wah) – DC U-S Shadow Representative

Guest:  Attorney Akua Aboagye (Ah-koo-ah Ah-boh-ah-jee)

Fast Facts on Kilmer Abrego Garcia.  Here’s what we do know

Kilmer Abrego Garcia is a 29-year-old husband and father of three.  He was deported on March 15th from the US in what the Trump administration called an administrative error and is currently in a notorious El Salvador prison. 

The Trump administration has accused Garci of being an MS-13 gang member, a charge he denies and he has ever been convicted or charged with a crime. 

In 2019, a Maryland judge granted Garcia a withholding removal status.  That allowed him to legally work and live in the US.

  • March 24th – Garcia’s wife files lawsuit against the US in Maryland District Court
  • April 4th – Maryland juge ruled that Garcia’s detention without any documentation was illegal
  • April 5th –  Department of Justice appeals judges ruling to 4th District
  • April 7th – Appeals court unanimously denies the Trump administration’s appeal
  • April 7th – Trump administration appeals 4th District ruling to the US Supreme Court
  • April 10th – SCOTUS rules 9-0 against the Trump administration saying Garcia’s deportation to El Salvador was illegal
  • April 14th – The President of El Salvador visited the White House and said it would be “absurd if he would return Garcia to the US,” suggesting that would be like smuggling a terrorist into America. 
  • April 16th – Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen traveled to El Salvador and met with the Vice President of El Salvador who said the US is paying his country to keep Garcia at the notorious prison

Target Recalls Baby Food Over Lead Contamination

AP News reports, Target has issued a nationwide recall of its Good & Gather Baby Pea, Zucchini, Kale & Thyme Vegetable Puree due to elevated levels of lead. The recall affects approximately 25,600 units sold in 4-ounce tubs, specifically lot numbers 4167 and 4169, with best-by dates of December 7 and December 9, 2025, respectively.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified this as a Class II recall, indicating that while serious health effects are unlikely, temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences are possible. Lead exposure is particularly harmful to infants and young children, potentially leading to developmental delays and neurological damage.

What You Should Do:

  • Do not feed the recalled puree to your child.​
  • Check the product’s lot number and best-by date to determine if it is part of the recall.​
  • Return the affected product to any Target store for a full refund.​
  • Contact Target Guest Relations at 1-800-440-0680 for further assistance.

As of now, no illnesses related to this recall have been reported. However, if you have concerns about potential lead exposure, consult your pediatrician for guidance

Smithsonian To Honor Filmmaker Ava DuVernay With 10th Great Americans Medal

According to Essence, award-winning filmmaker Ava DuVernay will be honored with the 10th Great Americans Medal by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History for her impactful work in Hollywood.

Known for projects like Selma and 13th, DuVernay will receive the 14-karat gold medal for her storytelling that challenges societal norms and sheds light on America’s history. The Great Americans Medal Awards Program recognizes individuals who have made a lasting impact in their fields, with DuVernay embodying the ethos of the initiative.

The ceremony, featuring a conversation between DuVernay and David M. Rubenstein, will stream live on May 8, celebrating DuVernay’s contributions as a director, writer, producer, and distributor.

Additionally, Grammy-winning singer Kandi Burruss and her daughter Riley share how food connects generations and traditions, highlighting the importance of family bonds and cherished recipes in their kitchen.

Providing Free Meals For Families

April is National Minority Health Month and my guest this morning is shining the spotlight on the critical link between nutrition and health.  Food & Friends provides meals to individuals and families with life challenging illnesses. My guest is Phyllis Givens – Client Services Director for Food and Friends

Food & Friends provides medically tailored meals, to individuals and families living with life-challenging illnesses, free of charge, throughout the DMV. On May 7th, Food & Friends will host its Chef’s Best event featuring over 30 of the region’s top chefs and mixologists at the Marriott Marquis in NW, DC. For more information go here: www.foodandfriends.org

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Even Gayle King Had To Laugh : Blue Orgin Meme

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Gayle King has embraced the humor surrounding her recent Blue Origin spaceflight. A clip of her looking visibly anxious while boarding the capsule during the ceremonial bell rung went viral with memes galore. The most popular meme captioned her expression with, “If I send you this, just know I’m stressed.”

Addressing the memes on CBS Mornings, King explained that her serious expression stemmed from fear. She stated, “At that moment I was so afraid, I just wanted to get into my seat because I just wanted to let the training kick in”.

Despite her initial nerves, she has since found amusement in the memes, sharing that friends have been sending them to her and that she’s been laughing along. King’s reaction has resonated with many of us.

Thankfully, Katy Perry, Lauren Sanchez, Gayle King, Aisha Bowe, Amanda Nguyen, and Kerianne Flynn made it back safely and successfully.

Last Minute Tax Tips

It’s the day Americans love to hate.  The deadline to file your taxes is at midnight.  This morning some tips for those last minute tax filers. My guest is John Fuld – Spokesperson for the Internal Revenue Service

  The IRS Free File is a quick and easy way to file federal tax returns for free.  IRS Free File is available to taxpayers and families whose 2024 adjusted gross income was $84k or less. For more information go here: www.irs.gov

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Supporting Our Children

AP Military Family

Celebrating our youngest heroes.  April is designated as the month honoring the children of military families.  My guest will highlight the strength and sacrifices they make.  Plus, some events taking place around Maryland to celebrate these extraordinary kids. My guest is Tony Woods – Secretary of the Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families

 Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families turns purple this April to celebrate the month of the Military Child.  Throughout the month, the department will join partners with events to recognize the unique challenges military children face and to celebrate their strength.  For more information, go here: www.maryland.gov

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MESSAGE FOR BLACK MEN, HOW TO BE A MODERN GENTLEMAN

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RESOURCES: https://notoriouslydapper.com/ https://www.instagram.com/kelvindavis/

On the Daily Drum, a conversation about fashion, masculinity, mental health, and wellness for men. The guest is on a mission to tackle all of the above. He’s a model, creator, and author of the NAACP Image-Award-nominated book – “Notoriously Dapper: How to be A Modern Gentleman.” Let’s welcome Kelvin Davis.

Guest: Kelvin Davis – Model, Creator, and Author

· A Pew Research study found that 25% of Americans say they have mostly negative views of men who are “manly or masculine.

· 6 in to 10 people say Americans don’t place enough value on men who are caring or open about their emotions.

· About four-in-ten men (42%) see themselves as highly masculine

· 6 in 10 Americans find certain behaviors that could be associated with “toxic masculinity” to be unacceptable.

DC Emancipation Day Celebration

Celebrating history and freedom.  DC Emancipation Day is coming up this weekend and the city is abuzz with an Anniversary Parade and celebration taking place this Sunday at Freedom Plaza. My guest is LaToya Foster – Director of the DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment

DC’s 163rd Emancipation Anniversary and the 20th Anniversary of its DC Public Holiday Observance will be April 13th at Freedom Plaza with a star-studded line up including Raheim DeVaughn, Chante Moore, Anthony Hamilton and many more.  There will also be a Kids Zone, Food Trucks, a parade, and more.   For more information go here: www.emancipation.dc.gov

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No Gang Ties: Chris Brown Sets Dress Code for Upcoming Tour

Chris Brown has advised his fans not to wear red bandanas to his upcoming tour, as he does not want to promote any gang affiliation.

The Breezy Bowl XX Tour, celebrating his 20th year in music, will feature Summer Walker and Bryson Tiller as opening acts and will kick off in Amsterdam in June.

Prior to the announcement of his tour, Brown has also filed a $500 million defamation lawsuit against Warner Bros. and others over rape claims made against him in a documentary, alleging false information and storytelling for profit and clicks.

Warner Bros. and Ample Entertainment have yet to respond to the lawsuit.

{WATCH} H&M Manager Kicks-Out Two Black Young Ladies For No Reason

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Two young Black ladies say H&M security told them they’d been “seen in the store before,” but then a manager kicked them out without proof and admitted she had “no reason” for doing so.

The confrontation, captured by “yoitsnoela,” is sparking outrage over racial profiling and blatant discrimination. The young ladies requested to speak to the manager after being approached by security to leave the store.

The manager tells the girls “I don’t have to have a reason, that is my reason…l’m refusing you service.” After questioning the manager, the young women were told they had been seen in the store before.”Are you saying we were stealing?” They asked.

“Do you have a picture you could show us?” The manager says she wanted the young ladies to leave before things became,”violent.”

Getting a 2nd Chance

April is 2nd Chance Awareness Month and I have some information this morning about an expungement fair coming up in Prince George’s County to help get you back on the right track. My guest is Aisha Braveyboy – Prince George’s County State’s Attorney

Office of the State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County in partnership with Glenarden City Council is hosting an Expungement Fair Saturday, April 19th from 10am to 2pm at the James Cousins Municipal Center in Glenarden.  Register at www.eventbrite.com

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Supporting Small Businesses

Some important information this morning for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs.  The DC Chamber of Commerce Small Business Summit & Expo is coming up.  The event is free and at the Washington Convention Center. Chinyete Hubbard – (Chin yetti) – President and CEO of DC Chamber of Commerce

The DC Chamber of Commerce Small Business Summit & Expo is free April 15th from 7am to 3:30pm at the Washington Convention Center. For more information go here: www.dcchamber.org   

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Damon Wayans Speaks on Jim Carrey, Robin Williams, and Reveals He Dated His Nephew’s Ex

AP Damon Wayans Damon Wayans Jr

In a recent interview, Damon Wayans shocked he revealed that he fell in love with the same woman who dated his nephew.

The comedian discussed his Black experience in Hollywood, his career, and the Wayans family legacy. Damon shared details about his love life, including how he ended up dating his nephew’s ex.

Despite the unusual situation, Damon sought his nephew’s approval before moving forward with the relationship.

Even though he gave several hints, the mystery woman’s identity remains a speculation topic among fans. 

The Poppa’s House star gave insights on discovering Jim Carrey’s talent, saying that he always knew the comedian was destined for fame. Wayans introduced Carrey to his brother Keenen Ivory Wayans, jumpstarting Carrey’s Hollywood career on “In Living Color.”

Wayans praised Carrey’s impressionist skills and mutual agreement to push each other’s comedic boundaries on stage. The bond between Wayans and Carrey remains strong, reflecting on their time on the iconic ’90s Fox series “In Living Color.”

Carrey’s success on the show solidified his place in Hollywood, with the series running for five seasons from 1990 to 1994.

During the interview, Wayans also shared that the late Robin Williams was a “notorious thief” who would steal jokes from other comedians.

Wayans described an instance where Williams’ manager would write checks to comedians whose material was allegedly taken. The accusations come amid ongoing discussions about joke theft in the comedy world, with Katt Williams previously accusing Steve Harvey and Cedric the Entertainer of appropriating his material.

Despite the controversy, some in the comedy community did not view Williams’ actions as malicious.

The Gift of Blood Donations

This morning information on how you can get in on the important work needed to be a blood donor.  The HBCU Red Cross Ambassador Program at Howard University is hosting a Blood Drive and they need you to roll up your sleeves to help out. My guest is David Lucdor – The American Red Cross HBCU Blood Drive Ambassador

Howard University and the American Red Cross are teaming up to host a Blood Drive April 14th in the Howard University Blackburn Center. For more information go here: www.rcblood.org

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#HandsOff2025 Protest: Here’s What We Know

AP Hands Off Protest

April 5th, 2025 Hands-Off protest happening and here’s what we know:

It is a form of nonviolent demonstration where participants commit to nonviolent actions.

Protesters are mobilizing nationwide in hopes to put a stop to what is being called the “illegal takeover”, of “our democracy, our livelihoods, and our rights.”

April 5th, those participating will gather across the country, by marching, rallying, disrupting , and demanding the “end to this billionaire power grab.” At state capitals, federal buildings, congressional offices, and city centers

Hands Off! core principle is a commitment to nonviolent action. And they ask that participants to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with their values.

Obama and Harris Speak Out Against Trump’s Second-Term Agenda

AP Barack Obama Kamala Harris

CNN reported that Former President Barack Obama and former Vice President Kamala Harris criticized President Donald Trump’s second term. Obama condemned Trump’s efforts to reshape the federal government and intimidate dissent.

Obama expressed concern over the White House’s infringement of rights and warned of the dangers of Trump’s presidency during an interview at Hamilton College. Harris noted the fear and capitulation in the country under Trump’s administration, emphasizing the importance of courage in the face of fear.

“Imagine if I had done any of this,” Obama said, later adding: “It’s unimaginable that the same parties that are silent now would have tolerated behavior like that from me, or a whole bunch of my predecessors.”

Later Harris stated at a Leading Women Defined Summit, “There were many things we knew would happen.” She added,“I’m not here to say I told you so.”

The remarks come as Trump strikes deals with law firms and targets firms working with his political enemies.