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Young Laureate Delivers Inaugural Poem

22-year-old poet Amanda Gorman delivered a passionate address at the inaugural.

NEW YORK (AP) — The country has a new president and a new literary star. In one of the inauguration’s most talked about moments, poet Amanda Gorman summoned images dire and triumphant Wednesday as she called out to the world “even as we grieved, we grew.”

The 22-year-old Gorman referenced everything from Biblical scripture to “Hamilton,” and at times echoed the oratory of John F. Kennedy and the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. With urgency and assertion she began by asking “Where can we find light/In this never-ending shade?” and used her own poetry and life story as an answer. The poem’s very title, “The Hill We Climb,” suggested both labor and transcendence.

“We did not feel prepared to be the heirs

But within it we’ve found the power

To author a new chapter,

To offer hope and laughter to ourselves.”

It was an extraordinary task for Gorman, who soon after finishing her poem helped inspire — along with Vice President Kamala Harris — the Twitter hashtag ”#BlackGirlMagic and was being praised by former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama among others. Gorman is the youngest by far of the poets who have read at presidential inaugurations since Kennedy invited Robert Frost in 1961, with other predecessors including Maya Angelou and Elizabeth Alexander. Mindful of the past, Gorman wore earrings and a caged bird ring — a tribute to Angelou’s classic memoir “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” — given to her by Oprah Winfrey, a close friend of the late writer.

“I have never been prouder to see another young woman rise! Brava Brava, @TheAmandaGorman! Maya Angelou is cheering—and so am I,” Winfrey tweeted. Gorman was also praised by “Hamilton” playwright Lin-Manuel Miranda, who tweeted “YES @TheAmandaGorman!!!” Gorman, soon responded: “Thx @Lin_Manuel! Did you catch the 2 @HamiltonMusical references in the inaugural poem? I couldn’t help myself!”

Among the “Hamilton” inspirations in her poem: “History has its eyes on us,” a variation of the “Hamilton” song “History Has Its Eyes On You.”

Gorman, a native and resident of Los Angeles and the country’s first National Youth Poet Laureate, told The Associated Press last week that she planned to combine a message of hope for President Joseph Biden’s inaugural without ignoring “the evidence of discord and division.” She had completed a little more than half of “The Hill We Climb” before Jan. 6 and the siege of the U.S. Capitol by supporters of then-President Donald Trump.

“That day gave me a second wave of energy to finish the poem,” Gorman told the AP. She had said that she would not mention Jan. 6 specifically, but her reference was unmistakable:

“We’ve seen a force that would shatter our nation rather than share it,

Would destroy our country if it meant delaying democracy.

And this effort very nearly succeeded.

But while democracy can be periodically delayed,

It can never be permanently defeated.”

Frost’s appearance at the Kennedy inaugural was a kind of valedictory — he was 86 and died two years later. Gorman’s career is just beginning. Penguin Young Readers announced Wednesday that “The Hill We Climb” will be published in a special edition this spring. Two other books come out in September — the illustrated “Change Sings” and a volume of her inaugural poem and other works. Ceremonial odes often are quickly forgotten, but Angelou’s “On the Pulse Of the Morning,” which she read at the 1993 inaugural of President Clinton, went on to sell more than 1 million copies as a book.

By late Wednesday afternoon, “Change Sings” was No. 1 on Amazon.com’s bestseller list, and her September poetry collection was No. 2. She had 206K Instagram followers and 121.3K Twitter followers at the end of the inauguration. Hours later, she had 1.3 million followers on Instagram and 738,000 on Twitter.

Invited to the inaugural late last month by first lady Jill Biden, Gorman has read at official occasions before — including a July 4 celebration when she was backed by the Boston Pops Orchestra — and has previously met Michelle Obama and former first lady Hillary Clinton among others. She has also made clear her desire to appear at a future inaugural, in a much greater capacity, an ambition she stated firmly in her poem.

Day One: Biden Reverses Trump Policies With Executive Orders

Joe Biden reverses nearly a dozen Trump policies hours into his first day in office.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden will move swiftly to dismantle Donald Trump’s legacy on his first day in office, signing a series of executive actions that reverse course on immigration, climate change, racial equity and the handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

The new president planned to sign the orders just hours after taking the oath of office at the Capitol, pivoting quickly from his pared-down inauguration ceremony to enacting his agenda. With the stroke of a pen, Biden intends to halt construction on Trump’s U.S.-Mexico border wall, end the ban on travel from some Muslim-majority countries, rejoin the Paris Climate Accord and the World Health Organization and revoke the approval of the Keystone XL oil pipeline, aides said.

The 15 executive actions amount to an attempt to rewind the last four years of federal policies with striking speed. Only two recent presidents signed executive actions on their first day in office — and each signed just one. But Biden, facing the debilitating coronavirus pandemic, a damaged economy and a riven electorate, is intent on demonstrating a sense of urgency and competence that he argues has been missing under his Republican predecessor.

“We’ll press forward with speed and urgency, for we have much to do in this winter of peril and significant possibilities — much to repair, much to restore, much to heal, much to build and much to gain,” Biden, a Democrat, said in his inaugural address.

The new president paused his speech for what he called his first act as president — a moment of a silent prayer for the victims of the nation’s worst public health crisis in more than a century.

Biden has said getting a grip on the pandemic, which has claimed more than 400,000 lives in the U.S., is his top policy priority. On the list of presidential orders to be signed Wednesday was one putting in place a mask mandate on federal property and extending the federal eviction freeze. It will also create a federal office to coordinate a national response to the containing the virus and distributing the vaccine. Biden will also restore the White House’s National Security Council directorate for global health security and defense, an office his predecessor had closed.  Biden’s orders also aim to target Trump’s environmental record, calling for a review of all regulations and executive actions that are deemed damaging to the environment or public health. Another order will instruct federal agencies to prioritize racial equity and review policies that reinforce systemic racism. Biden intends to revoke a Trump order that sought to exclude noncitizens from the census and will order federal employees to take an ethics pledge that commits them to upholding the independence of the Justice Department.

Aides said they new president will also revoke the just-issued report of Trump’s “1776 Commission” that promotes “patriotic education.”

Those moves and others will be followed by dozens more in the next 10 days, the president’s aides said, as Biden looks to redirect the country without having to go through a Senate that Democrats control by the narrowest margin.

Republicans signaled that the new president will face fierce opposition on some parts of his agenda.

One of his orders seeks to fortify the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, known as DACA, a signature effort during the Obama administration that provided hundreds of thousands of young undocumented immigrants protection from deportation and a pathway to citizenship. That’s part of a broader immigration plan that would include provide an eight-year path to citizenship for an estimated 11 million people living in the U.S. without legal status.

The plan would lead to “a permanent cycle of illegal immigration and amnesty that would hurt hard-working Americans and the millions of legal immigrants working their way through the legal immigration process,” said Chris Hartline, a spokesman for the National Republican Senatorial Committee.

Even that familiar criticism seemed a return to the normalcy Biden has sought after years of disruptive and overheated politics.

Notably, the opening actions did not include immediate steps to rejoin the Iran nuclear accord, which Trump abandoned and Biden has pledged to reimplement. Jen Psaki, the incoming White House press secretary, said that while they were not included in Biden’s Day One orders, the new president will in the coming days revoke the Pentagon’s ban on military service by transgender Americans as well as the so-called Mexico City policy, which bans U.S. funding for international organizations that perform or refer women for abortion services.

@FrankSkiInspirationalVitamin: “Victories” 

2 Corinthians 2:14 | AMP
14 But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us spreads and makes evident everywhere the sweet fragrance of the knowledge of Him.

Giving you positive inspiration to start AND continue  your day! Be sure to follow @FrankSki & @peninabrown for more inspiration and encouragement. And don’t forget to listen to the @frankskishow on @WHURFM every weekday from 3pm-7pm! #AMEN #beblessed #God  #joy #faith #frankski #inspirationalvitamin ✝️🙏🏽✝️

 

 

Biden/Harris Officially Sworn In!

Congratulations President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris!

Joe Biden has just been sworn in as the 46th president of the United States. Kamala Harris has just been sworn in as 46th vice president of the United States. Harris is the nation’s first female vice president — and the first Black woman and the first woman of South Asian descent to hold that office. This has been a historic inauguration. Congratulations President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris!

Career and Job Resources For Those 50 or Older

AARP is hosting an online career expo for older workers

Job loss due to the pandemic has affected millions.  The impact has been especially challenging for older workers who may find it more difficult to rebound finding a new job.  This morning my guest is with AARP and she’s providing some tips and has details about an upcoming Online Career Expo.  My guest is Susan Weinstock – AARP’s Vice-President of Financial Resilience

On average, a third of the workforce is age 50 or older, but once displaced, older workers take twice as long to find a new job as younger workers. Long-term unemployment is especially concerning now: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly half (45.6%) of jobseekers 55-plus have been looking for a job for six months or longer.  For more information go here:       or  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:

Covering The 59th Presidential Inauguration

We compare past presidential inaugurations with what we might expect tomorrow

Tomorrow, America will inaugurate Joe Biden as the 46th President of the United States.  But this will be the most unusual inauguration in American history.  Because of the deadly threat to the U.S. Capitol and democracy just two weeks ago, there is an unprecedented number of national guard in D.C.  That along with the COVID-19 pandemic presenting a combination of factors… never seen before during the peaceful transfer of power.  We compare past presidential inaugurations with what we might expect tomorrow.

Jesse Holland, Host of C-SPAN’s Washington Journal
Jennifer Thomas, Associate Professor & Journalism Sequence Coordinator, Department of Media, Journalism and Film, Howard University

 

HUR@Home: Journalist & Columnist Mary C. Curtis

She shares thoughts about covering the inauguration.

Tonight, on HUR@Home we talk to Mary C. Curtis, award winning journalist and columnist for roll call. Less than 24-hours from now a lot of history will be made in the nation’s capital.The oldest president will be sworn into office, the first woman and first woman of color will become the vice president.  All of this happening in the midst of a deadly pandemic and an unprecedented threat to threat to our democracy.

The Dating Game Comes With Rules

Even though Emhoff’s email was a successful strategy, Harris joked that once she saw the email she was “terrified.” Despite being thrown off by his forwardness, their relationship flourished and they tied the knot in 2014. The wedding, which was in Santa Barbara, was officiated by Harris’ sister Maya, who said she knew Emhoff was the one for her sister “when I saw how he made her laugh.”

Doug didn’t want their first date to end; so he sent his availability for 4 months!  Was he doing too much or just enough? 

What are things you should do to show your are interested and not about games?

Be sure to check out @FrankSkiShow with @peninabrown every weekday from 3pm to 7pm right here on 96.3 @WHURFM

DC Set to Rolll-Out Vaccine for Teachers and Police

DC teachers and police are next in line to receive their shots next week.

WASHINGTON, DC) – Today, DC Health announced that beginning the week of January 25, in-person staff, including teachers and support staff, at DC Public Schools (DCPS) and DC Public Charter Schools will begin receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.

This week, DCPS teachers and staff who are already reporting in-person, or who will return for in-person instruction in Term 3, will receive an email outlining the process for scheduling a vaccination appointment. Vaccinations will begin next week and will take place at Dunbar High School. DC Health and DCPS are partnering with Children’s National Hospital to vaccinate DCPS staff. Appointments will be scheduled directly with Children’s National Hospital.

DC Public Charter Schools will receive guidance from the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) regarding the vaccination program expected to start on January 25 for teachers and staff who are reporting in person.

Starting on January 25, other workers necessary for the preservation of societal functions will begin vaccinations, such as other public school staff and members of the Metropolitan Police Department. In addition, “Continuity of District Government” personnel will start their vaccinations next week with Kaiser.

District seniors (65 years and older) and healthcare workers will continue to register for vaccination appointments using the vaccinate.dc.gov portal or by calling the District’s coronavirus call center at 855-363-0333. Going forward, appointments will be released every Thursday at 9:00 a.m. to eligible residents in priority zip codes, and additional appointments will be released every Friday at 9:00 a.m. for all DC zip codes. If DC’s weekly vaccine allotment from the federal government changes, this schedule is likely to change in accordance. The District’s goal is the make the vaccine available promptly as supply comes in from the federal government and to ensure an equitable distribution of the vaccine across all eight wards.

Earlier this month, DC Health shared the District’supdated vaccination program phases, broken down by tiers. The phases and tiers consider populations based on two factors: 1) prevention of morbidity and mortality and 2) preservation of societal functions. In terms of prevention of morbidity and mortality, the first populations to begin receiving the vaccine were individuals in nursing homes then followed by District residents 65 years and older. In terms of preservation of societal functions, the first populations to begin receiving the vaccine were health care workers, EMS workers, and frontline public health workers.

Recent experience shows that demand for the vaccine remains high. Mayor Bowser and DC Health continue to advocate for the federal government to send more vaccine so that we can meet the demand for it and protect the lives of our residents and our workforce. Put bluntly: DC NEEDS MORE VACCINE.

@FrankSkiInspirationalVitamin: “Distractions” 

1 Corinthians 7:35 | AMP
35 And this I speak for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is comely, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction.

Giving you positive inspiration to start AND continue  your day! Be sure to follow @FrankSki & @peninabrown for more inspiration and encouragement. And don’t forget to listen to the @frankskishow on @WHURFM every weekday from 3pm-7pm! #AMEN #beblessed #God  #joy #faith #frankski #inspirationalvitamin ✝️🙏🏽✝️

 

 

PG County Ramping Up Vaccinations

LARGO, MD – Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks announced today that individuals who live or work in Prince George’s County and wish to receive a COVID-19 vaccine must fill out the County Health Department’s pre-registration form. The Health Department will follow up with individuals who have pre-registered with a link and instructions on how to schedule a vaccine appointment, as those appointments become available based on vaccine supply.

“I’m encouraging every Prince Georgian to pre-register for your COVID-19 vaccine so when your turn comes, you will be able to join us in being Proud to be Protected,” said Alsobrooks. “Due to the current limited supply of vaccines, we urge everyone to be patient with this months-long process. We continue to work hard to ramp up our vaccine distribution efforts so when we receive increased supplies of vaccines, we will be able to administer them quickly and efficiently.”

Individuals who are in Phase 1B of the County’s vaccine distribution plan MUST fill out the pre-registration formin order to receive an appointment. Phase 1B includes adults ages 75 and older, individuals in assisted living and other congregate settings, teachers and support staff (higher education included), childcare workers, and critical government leadership for continuity of operations. Individuals who were eligible in Phase 1A and did not already receive at least a first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine must fill out the pre-registration form as well.

As appointments become available based on vaccine supply, the Health Department will email links to those who are eligible and have pre-registered to schedule an appointment. Due to the current limited supply of vaccines, it may take several weeks or longer before individuals receive a link to schedule an appointment from the Health Department.

To make sure that Prince Georgians who are most vulnerable have access to appointments, the County is resetting all appointments currently scheduled after February 9 at the Sports & Learning Complex. The Health Department will send out notices to those individuals and they will be required to fill out the pre-registration form online to be able to reschedule their appointments. Individuals who have an appointment on February 9 or before should keep their scheduled appointment, and they will not need to fill out the pre-registration form. Anyone who has an appointment for asecond dose of the vaccine after February 9 will not have their appointment changed.

For individuals who have appointments, the County is reminding them to bring identification to the appointment, as well as an insurance card if they have medical insurance. For those who receive a link from the Health Department to schedule a vaccine appointment, the County is asking that they do not use Internet Explorer, as it is not compatible with the State registration site. The County suggests using Safari, Chrome, Microsoft Edge, or a smartphone.

Phase 1C is still set to begin in Prince George’s County on January 25, 2021. Individuals in Phase 1C and future phases can fill out the same pre-registration form at this time. When the County enters future phases of vaccine distribution, individuals that have already pre-registered will receive a notification that they are eligible, and as appointments become available, will begin to receive links to schedule appointments.

The County has also been working to ramp up vaccine distribution daily. Last week, the number of vaccinations provided by the County Health Department increased by 461%. Beginning Thursday, January 21, the Sports & Learning Complex vaccination clinic will administer 1,000 vaccines per day, Monday through Friday, through the beginning of next month. All of those appointments have already been filled.

In addition, the County will be opening the Southern Regional Technology & Recreation Complex as a vaccination clinic. Next week, the facility will be used to train new vaccination staff. It is anticipated that this new site will open, by appointment only, by the end of next week. The County is also collaborating with the State to open a large vaccination site in the County.

The County is also working closely with partners at Luminis Health-Doctors Community Hospital to offer vaccinations to staff at dialysis centers. This partnership allows Prince George’s County to protect a vulnerable population from COVID-19 when they go to receive routine, but life-saving dialysis treatments. Yesterday, medical partners at University of Maryland Prince George’s Hospital Center vaccinated 200 seniors. In addition, the County expects to partner with Kaiser Permanente to help vaccinate teachers.

 

Georgia certifies Democrats Warnock and Ossoff’s Senate wins

The action paves the way for Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff to be sworn in, giving Democrats control of the chamber.

ATLANTA (AP) — Georgia’s secretary of state has certified the results of the two U.S. Senate runoff elections. The action paves the way for Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff to be sworn in, giving Democrats control of the chamber.

Georgia Senator-elect Rhapael Warnock
Georgia Senator-Elect Jon Ossoff

They’ll take office just as the Senate considers whether to convict President Donald Trump in an impeachment trial for inciting the deadly storming of the U.S. Capitol. The certification by Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger officially seals Warnock and Ossoff’s victories. They defeated Republicans Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue in the Jan. 5 runoffs. Both Loeffler and Perdue conceded days after the election.

Howard University’s Virtual Inaugural Celebration

WASHINGTON – Howard University, the alma mater of Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, will host a virtual pre-inauguration celebration on Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at 9 a.m. ET on WHUT.org and WHUR.com. The campus community and Howard alumni and friends are invited to tune-in from home as we count down to the Biden-Harris Inauguration.

The program will begin with a rebroadcast of the 2017 Commencement Oration by VP-elect Harris, followed by a special surprise sneak peek into some of the Inauguration preparation activities. The program will conclude with a webinar titled, “From the Mecca to the White House: Celebrating the Influence of African American Leadership.” Howard University Dean of the Law School, Danielle Holley-Walker, J.D., will moderate a roundtable conversation with panelists Lisa Crooms-Robinson, J.D., professor, school of law, Keneisha Grant, Ph.D.,associate professor, department of political science and Elsie L Scott, Ph.D., director, Ronald W. Walters Leadership and Public Policy Center.

Immediately following the webinar, the presentation will turn to the PBS broadcast of the Biden-Harris Inauguration. Please save the date to stream the show online at WHUT.org and WHUR.com, and a link will be posted on the Howard University homepage. Follow the conversation on social media using the hashtags #HU2WH and #InaugurationDay.

# # #

Nat’l Guard Vetting Ejects 12 Members

Two National Guard Members Removed Over Ties To Far-Right Groups

(Washington, DC)  —  Twelve members of the National Guard are being removed from the mission to secure the inauguration because of their ties to far-right groups.  Two of them for inappropriate comments or texting according to Pentagon officials. General Daniel Hokanson told NBC News they don’t allow extremism in any form.  There are more than 20-thousand National Guard troops helping secure tomorrow’s inauguration.  Defense officials are vetting all of them to ensure there will be no insider threat to the handover of power.  Joe Biden takes the oath to become the nation’s 46th President at noon Eastern time on Wednesday. 

MLK DAY: Activism and Service

On this MLK Day, we honor Dr. King in a discussion about activism and service.  It is at the heart of his legacy.  This is his first holiday celebration in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and after the challenges of the social justice movement of 2020.

Resources:

The United Way, National Capital Area

Deborah D. Douglas/Book Information

Rosie Allen Herring, President & CEO, The United Way of the National Capital Area

Deborah D. Douglas, Author/Journalist

Fire and Explosion Puts Capitol Complex on Alert

Capitol Lockdown Lifted After Scare Involving Fire At A Homeless Camp

(Washington, DC) — It’s all clear at the U.S. Capitol after a security scare this morning. The Capitol complex was locked down after what turned out to be a fire in a nearby homeless camp. It is a federal holiday; the House and Senate are in recess and the Capitol is relatively empty. Tensions are running high before Wednesday’s presidential inauguration after the deadly and violent attack on the Capitol on January 6th. Unprecedented levels of security have been implemented in DC, including more than 20-thousand National Guard troops.

HU Marching Band Headed to Inauguration

Howard University’s Marching Band will escort Vice President-elect Kamala Harris to her historic inauguration Wednesday.

WASHINGTON – Howard University is proud to announce theShowtime Marching Band will escort Vice President Kamala Harris at the 59th presidential inauguration on Jan. 20. They will perform a special drum cadence for the parade.

“It is our esteemed honor to be involved in the historic inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris,” said Howard University President Wayne A. I. Frederick. “Throughout her career, the vice president-elect has carried her Howard education with her, ensuring that she adhere to truth and service and inspiring her to achieve unprecedented levels of excellence. It is perfectly fitting that the Showtime Marching Band, the ensemble that captures and reverberates the heartbeat of our institution, should accompany her on this last leg of her journey to the White House. It was that steady pulse of her Alma Mater’s legacy that propelled her forward, and it is that same rhythm that will carry her onward as she undoubtedly will become one of the most influential vice presidents in the history of our nation.”

Showtime Band will have the drumline, the Flashy Flag Squad, and Ooh La La dancers in the inauguration parade, representing less than one-third of the band for safety precautions.

“I think the amendments to this year’s inaugural events are appropriate for the times we are experiencing. I’ve been eager for months to see how Howard University would be included in this momentous inauguration, and it’s great to know that we’re able to safely execute traditional events and be represented as the marching band and musical heart of the vice president’s Alma Mater. As the first of many more progressive elections/inaugurations for women, it feels euphoric to be involved. I’m beyond elated to be able to participate with the Flashy Flag Squad, Ooh La La Dancers and percussion section,” said Gilliam.“Our squad has been conditioning, learning tosses and practicing dances to band music since last summer at our respective homes. So, finally hearing the heartbeat of the band, even in this small degree, is powerful for the entire band, and I’m sure the student body will be excited to see their peers help usher in our fellow Bison.”

Special: Historic Inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris

The WHUR NEWS team will bring you the sights and sounds of the day with hourly reports and a full recap of the events at 7pm with a special edition of the Daily Drum with Harold Fisher.

96.3 WHUR is your inauguration information station. Join us Wednesday for the historic inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris. The WHUR NEWS team will bring you the sights and sounds of the day with hourly reports and a full recap of the events at 7pm with a special edition of the Daily Drum with Harold Fisher. Plus commentary from political, legal, and national security experts. The change is in the air… and WHUR News will be there to witness it with you. 96.3 WHUR… 49 years of sounding like Washington.

How To Make Budgeting As Painless As Possible

Automating things like savings and bill payments goes a long way toward reducing the effort needed to achieve goals.

By LIZ WESTON of NerdWallet
You don’t have to track every single penny to get the best use from your money — and most of us don’t want to. Technology and some basic guidelines can help you create a road map so you have some idea where you are going, how far along the journey you are and what you’ll need to reach your destination. Automating things like savings and bill payments goes a long way toward reducing the effort needed to achieve goals. Then pick a system that makes it easy to track your monthly spending, perhaps using a single credit card or a payment app.

Harris Prepares For Central Role In Biden’s White House

Harris is shaping up to be a central player in addressing everything from the coronavirus pandemic to criminal justice reform. Harris’ chief spokeswoman, Symone Sanders, says Harris has a hand in all aspects of Biden’s agenda.

By ALEXANDRA JAFFE Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) — Kamala Harris will make history on Wednesday when she becomes the nation’s first female vice president — and the first Black woman and the first woman of South Asian descent to hold that office. But that’s only where her boundary-breaking role begins. A confluence of crises confronts the Biden administration, and an evenly divided Senate means that she will break any tie votes. Harris is shaping up to be a central player in addressing everything from the coronavirus pandemic to criminal justice reform. Harris’ chief spokeswoman, Symone Sanders, says Harris has a hand in all aspects of Biden’s agenda.

Drake Becomes First Ever Artist to Hit 50 Billion Spotify Streams

Which artist do you stream the most?

While fans wait on Drake’s album, Certified Lover Boy, to drop the “Nice For What” rapper continues to break streaming records, more specifically being the first artist in history to hit 50 billion streams on Spotify.

Per Chart Data’s tweet, Drake, “has now surpassed 50 billion streams on Spotify across all credits. He is the first artist in history to hit this milestone.”

Drake will more than likely continue his stronghold on the streaming charts with the release of his album in the first quarter.

Drake and Meek Mill were spotted in the Bahamas recently filming a video for the album and Nike and Drake have been hard at work on their collaboration, NOCTA, Drake’s sublabel for the brand. Drake recently featured pieces from the line on social media.

Which artist do you stream the most?

The Words of Martin Luther King Jr. Reverberate in a Tumultuous Time

What Martin Luther King Jr. quote still resonates with you today?

Looking back at Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have A Dream” speech, the words still ring true in today’s world.

Reflecting on the words from King’s historic speech and the title of his last book, “Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community?” College professors, reverends, and filmmakers look at King’s words and find the parallels in today’s world.

“What’s going on in the United States, what we witnessed on Jan. 6, all has to do with a backlash to the fact that our world is changing. It’s going on here in America; it’s going on in Europe. We’re becoming a more intertwined world, a more multicultural world. That’s the trajectory of history, and there’s no going back on that. That quote completely underscores everything I’m talking about — a just world is an equal world, equal no matter what our race is,” said Connie Field, award-winning filmmaker.

In his sermons, speeches, and written word, Martin Luther King Jr. spoke to the past and future of America and warned that if we as people didn’t fight to uplift the body of America, namely the poor and those without healthcare, then the nation would never be healed.

What Martin Luther King Jr. quote still resonates with you today?

When The Ex Turns Out To Be A STALKER!

“You can see signs of a stalker type, very early in the dating process. Pay attention.”

In our first Ladies Night of 2021, we dished about all things relevant. Of course, we weighed in on POTUS’ second impeachment and what that means to us.

Then, we talked about what movies we’ve enjoyed during the holidays up til now. When we got to Michael Ealy’s new movie, FATALE, the conversation got personal. We shared stories of our Fatal Attraction scenarios/ stalker close calls. Got to be careful out here.

We shared our stories, and you shared yours in the comment section! Thank you!

Make sure you don’t miss any of these fun , weekly chit chats, with the Ladies of WHUR-fm. Every Wednesday at 9:00 pm ET.

Keep Dr. King’s Legacy Alive: Serve Others

“Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday is a time to reflect on the legacy of the powerful civil rights leader. The federal holiday, observed January 18, is known as a day of service.

“Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

This year is quite different than most years due to the fact that we’re in the midst of a global pandemic. Most celebrations have gone virtual in an effort to keep Dr. King’s legacy alive, safely, while social distancing.

Here are several virtual celebrations scheduled to honor the late, great Dr. King —

The National Museum of African American History & Culture
The People’s Holiday
An Afternoon With Christian McBride
NMAAHC’s annual community program entitled The People’s Holiday features six-time Grammy award-winning bassist, composer, and educator Christian McBride in a digital performance inspired by his social justice-focused album entitled, The Movement Revisited: A Musical Portrait of Four Icons. The 45-minute concert of jazz and poetry will feature performances of students from The Julliard School and a poetry reading by award winning poet, Evie Shockley.  The concert will conclude with a conversation with Christian McBride moderated by Dwandalyn Reece, Associate Director of Curatorial Affairs. This concert honors Dr. Kings’ commitment to racial equality, justice, and service.

 

National Civil Rights Museum at The Lorraine Motel
King Day
A Virtual Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday
The National Civil Rights Museum presents King Day: A Virtual Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday on January 18, 2021 via livestream at 12:00 noon and 6:00pm Central. The event will showcase Dr. King’s work, the history of how the national holiday came to be, as well as how the museum has celebrated the holiday in years past.

 

AmeriCorps
MLK Day of Service
AmeriCorps is collaborating with the Presidential Inaugural Committee on the MLK National Day of Service.
Together we encourage you to engage in volunteer service in honor of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. Make a commitment to serve in your community on MLK Day and throughout 2021. To find an event near you, see here.

It’s The King Holiday, A Day Of Service

Helping those in need

We are honoring and celebrating the life and legacy of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  Today is all about service and this morning we shine the spotlight on an event taking place to help others.  It’s a Drive-Thru Food Giveaway.  My guest is Mel Franklin – At-Large Prince George’s County Councilman

Feed The Community  Drive-thru Food Drive Monday, January 18th at three locations 10am Beltway Plaza Mall ,  12:30pm at Bishop McNamara High School in Forestville and 2:30pm at Old Town Inn in Upper Marlboro.

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:

 

 

The Journey: “The Educational Priorities of a New Presidential Administration”

Dr. Wayne Frederick talks to Dr. Dawn Williams, professor and dean of the Howard University School of Education.

ABOUT

As we approach the Spring 2021 semester at Howard University and welcome the new Presidential administration of Joe Biden and Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris, it is vital that explore the connections between education and politics. Right now, we are at a critical crossroads. We are still in the midst of a global pandemic and continuing to work to meet the challenges to provide for our students’ educational needs in a mostly virtual environment. At the same time, the availability of effective COVID-19 vaccines means that the end of the pandemic is in sight, and therefore, we must prepare now for a post-coronavirus educational future.  On today’s episode of “The Journey,” Dr. Wayne Frederick talks to Dr. Dawn Williams, professor and dean of the Howard University School of Education.

Air Date: January 17, 2021

Who Do You Trust to Protect Us on Inauguration Day?

The question raised after what we saw last week during the insurrection at the Capitol.

As we draw closer to Inauguration Day we’ve seen a huge police and National Guard presence on and around the National Mall.  Even as those thousand are here to protect the inauguation there are still questions about that very thing.  Those questions raised after what we saw last week during the insurrection at the Capitol. Images of some Capitol Police officers allowing the rioters into the Capitol.

Guests:

Theotis “Butch” Jones, Retired Capitol Hill Police Officer (not pictured)

Sonia Pruitt, Past President, National Black Police Association

National Parks Service Closes Access to National Through Inauguration Day

Two “First Amendment” areas will be open for demonstrators on at John Marshall Park and the Navy Memorial.

From the U.S. Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, much of the  National Mall will be closed to the public ahead of Inauguration Day. This muscular response from the federal government and District of Columbia is part of the massive security crackdown after the attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6th.  Two “First Amendment” areas will be open for demonstrators on at John Marshall Park and the Navy Memorial.  D.C. Police Chief Robert Contee says all communities outside of the downtown area will patrolled in the event there are protests there.

Healthy Choices For The New Year

Giant Foods Offering nutrition classes online

If you are like most people, you are happy to say farewell to 2020 and hello to a healthy nutritious 2021.  Giant has free online nutrition classes to help you stay true to your healthy eating resolution.  My guest is Leslie Jefferson – Giant Nutritionist

Giant offers online classes, online consultations, healthy living Facebook Group.  Find out more or register for a class 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:

COVID-19, One Year Later

Vaccines, dispelling myths and how to stay safe.

One year ago this month, the first COVID-19 case was diagnosed in the US. Since then, more than 388-thousand Americans have died.  Businesses, churches and so many things we were used to have shutdown. Vaccines have been be developed in record time although distribution has been uneven. We’re talking about the coronavirus… one year later.

Resources:

Grapevine Health

Black Coalition Against Covid-19

Dr. Lisa Fitzpatrick, MD., Infectious Disease Specialist

Ashanti Smith: Black Woman Attacked By Trump Supporters [EXCLUSIVE]

 

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A post shared by WHUR FM (@whurfm)

Per Ashanti’s #GoFundMe: Help Ashanti with Legal Fees

Greetings, My name is Ashanti Smith; I am a 28-year-old African American woman who lives in the Washington DC metropolitan area. I recently was assaulted, attacked and harassed by a group of Trump supporters on Black Lives Matter Plaza in Washington DC on January 5th, 2021. A video has surfaced where I was surrounded by a group of Trump extremists, and I honestly feared for my life. The video makes me look like I am the aggressor, but it does not show what happened prior to my defending myself. People shoved me, tried to take my phone and keys, yelled racial epithets at me, and tried to remove my mask. I asked them to social distance and stay out of my personal space due to COVID 19. They refused, and I was afraid of being hurt and harmed. After being assaulted, I defended myself. I am now facing criminal charges along with being relieved from my employment pending an investigation. Which places me in a hardship situation at the moment. I am asking for support and help with funds for my legal fees and to maintain the essential things that I need to survive during this time. Any amount of help is truly appreciated.

Thank you in advance.
@_ashanti_s

Towanda Braxton On What Led Her To Create Her Own Beauty Line

Towanda Braxton discussed what led her to create her own beauty line, Ladybug Skincare from WHUR Streaming on Vimeo.

Towanda Braxton discussed what led her to create her own beauty line, Ladybug Skincare. #TowandaBraxton

Katie Couric, Mayim Bialik To Be ‘Jeopardy!’ Guest Hosts

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Katie Couric will become the first woman ever to host “Jeopardy!” when she serves a guest stint in place of the late Alex Trebek. The show announced Wednesday that Couric, the journalist and former “Today” show host, will be among those guest hosting on an interim basis along with NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers, “Big Bang Theory” star Mayim Bialik and “60 Minutes” correspondent Bill Whitaker. Trebek, the face of the show for 36 years, died from pancreatic cancer Nov. 8, and his final show aired Friday. “Jeopardy!” champion Ken Jennings is currently serving as the first guest host.

Lady Gaga To Sing Anthem, J-Lo To Perform At Inauguration

WASHINGTON (AP) — Lady Gaga will sing the national anthem at Joe Biden’s inauguration and Jennifer Lopez will give a musical performance on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol when Biden is sworn in as the nation’s 46th president next Wednesday. The announcement of their participation comes one day after word that Tom Hanks will host a 90-minute primetime TV special celebrating Biden’s inauguration. At the swearing-in ceremony, the Rev. Leo O’Donovan, a former Georgetown University president, will give the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance will be led by Andrea Hall, a firefighter from Georgia.

Illusionist Siegfried Fischbacher Dies In Las Vegas

BERLIN (AP) — German news agency dpa is reporting that illusionist Siegfried Fischbacher, the surviving member of the duo Siegfried & Roy, has died in Las Vegas at age 81. The news agency said Thursday that Fischbacher’s sister, a nun who lives in Munich, confirmed his death of cancer. Sister Dolore told dpa that spoke with her brother on the phone before he died and they prayed together. Fischbacher’s long-time show business partner, Roy Horn, died in May of complications from COVID-19 at a Las Vegas hospital. The duo astonished millions with their extraordinary magic tricks until Horn was critically injured in 2003 by one of the act’s famed white tigers.

Exclusive with Security Guard Ashanti Smith

The incident was captured on video — you can see a white woman’s hand suddenly reach toward Ashanti, who then punched her in the face. A man tried to punch her back, before a group of men pushed her over to a line of police officers.

Exclusive with Ashanti Smith the black security guard who was fired for defending herself by striking a rioter who was part of a group who was harassing and assaulting her. They are charger her with a hate crime. You don’t want to miss this exclusive interview. If you missed it, check out the full audio.

Be sure to check out @FrankSkiShow with @peninabrown every weekday from 3pm to 7pm right here on 96.3 @WHURFM

DC Begins Lockdown In Preparation For Inauguration

The District is preparing for the inauguration of Joe Biden with intensive security measures.

WASHINGTON (AP) — All through downtown Washington, the primary sound for several blocks was the beeping of forklifts unloading more fencing.

There were no cars or scooters and seemingly no tourists Wednesday, just the occasional jogger and multiple construction crews at work. The U.S. Capitol that proved such a soft target last week was visible only through lines of tall, black fence.

Two blocks from the White House, a group of uniformed National Guard troops emerged from a tour bus and headed into a hotel as a state of lockdown descended on Washington that will last through the Jan. 20 inauguration.

“Clearly we are in uncharted waters,” said Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser.

Last week’s “violent insurrection” at the Capitol by supporters of outgoing President Donald Trump has “impacted the way we are approaching working with our federal partners in planning for the 59th inauguration,” Bowser said Wednesday.

The FBI has warned that armed protests by violent Trump supporters were being planned in all 50 state capitals as well as in Washington for the days leading up to the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden.

Between the pandemic and the security threat, Bowser is flat-out asking people not to come to the District of Columbia for the inauguration. And at Bowser’s request, a National Special Security Event declaration was moved up to Jan. 13, a distinction which she said “puts in place an entirely different command and control structure” for security.

The NSSE status is normal for a presidential inauguration and other major events like an international summit or the Super Bowl. But it’s rare to start the lockdown so far in advance of the event.

Police vehicles sealed off a huge swath of downtown D.C. Wednesday, causing immediate traffic snarls. Starting Wednesday, Bowser said, anyone inside the inauguration perimeter might be stopped and questioned. Starting Friday, all parking garages in the downtown restricted zone will be sealed through the inauguration.

Bowser is also being pushed to deny lodging options to potentially violent protesters. The local Black Lives Matter affiliate and Shutdown DC issued a joint statement Wednesday urging all downtown hotels to voluntarily close and pay their staffs. In addition to the threat of violence, the activist groups say Trump supporters are a threat to the health of hotel staff for their general refusal to wear facemasks amid the pandemic. Several downtown hotels, including one which had become a favorite hangout of the militant Proud Boy faction, chose to avoid trouble by closing last week.

“Closing hotels completely for these six nights is the only way to guarantee the safety of hotel workers, neighbors, vulnerable and unhoused residents, incoming administration officials, members of Congress, and our democracy,” the statement said. “If hotels do not willingly close, we ask Mayor Bowser to extend today’s emergency order and close all hotels in the city.”

On Wednesday, Airbnb announced it was cancelling all reservations in the Washington metro area. Bowser said she had been in regular contact with Airbnb officials since last week, but did not specifically request this step.

“We are aware of reports emerging yesterday afternoon regarding armed militias and known hate groups that are attempting to travel and disrupt the Inauguration,” a company statement said. “We are continuing our work to ensure hate group members are not part of the Airbnb community.”

On the ground, much of the most visible security will come in the form of more than 15,000 National Guardsmen from multiple states, some of them armed.

According to officials, the number of Guardsmen who will actually be carrying guns will be limited. Some Guard members nearer the Capitol will have long guns, and others will have their sidearms.

It is likely that those closer to the crowds or on fence lines won’t be armed, but those up closer to the building may be. National Guard members operate under strict rules of engagement on the use of force. But generally speaking, troops can use lethal force to protect the lives of others and themselves.

Officials also said that while 15,000 Guard members have been activated, more may be called. D.C. Police Chief Robert Contee estimated Wednesday that more than 20,000 National Guardsmen would be active in the District of Columbia on Inauguration Day.

Officials are continuing to review requests from law enforcement, and some believe several thousand more could be brought in. Defense and military officials have been calling governors and adjutants general to ask if they might have people they could send, if requested.

So far, officials said state leaders have said that protecting their own capitols will be their top priority, but they still have some Guard members they will be able to send, if needed.

Celebrating The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Join a virtual celebration of Dr. King’s life tomorrow evening

The 33rd Annual Anne Arundel County Dr. King Awards Program is tomorrow and I have the details on how you can take part virtually in the celebration.  My guest is Carl Snowden –

The 33rd Anne Arundel MLK Award Ceremony is Friday January 15th @ 6pm.  The program will include a performance by the Naval Academy Gospel Choir.  13 local civil and human rights activists will be honored.  Viewers can access the program 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:

President Trump Impeached

We break down the day and look ahead at what this means for the nation over the next week, and the next year.

A difficult and historic day for America. Donald John Trump, The 45th President of the United States, impeached for a second time.  Something that has never happened before. It is a political battle that continues to play itself out even with only seven days left before the inauguration of Joe Biden.  We break down the day and look ahead at what this means for the nation over the next week, and the next year.

Former Congresswoman Donna Edwards, (D) Maryland

Dr. Robinson Woodward-Burns, Howard University Political Science Professor

President Donald J. Trump, Impeached for a Second Time

Trump impeached after Capitol riot; historic second charge

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump has been impeached by the U.S. House over the violent siege of the Capitol. He is the only president to be twice impeached. He faced a single charge “incitement of insurrection” in Wednesday’s vote after he encouraged a mob of loyalists to, as he put it, “fight like hell” against election results. The subsequent attack on the U.S. Capitol turned deadly and delayed finalizing Democrat Joe Biden’s election victory. Security was exceptionally tight at the Capitol for Wednesday’s vote, beefed up by armed National Guard troops, with secure perimeters set up and metal-detector screenings required for lawmakers entering the House chamber. A handful of Republicans supported impeachment along with the Democrats.

@FrankSkiInspirationalVitamin: “Change” 

Matthew 6:33 | AMP

33 But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also.

Giving you positive inspiration to start AND continue  your day! Be sure to follow @FrankSki & @peninabrown for more inspiration and encouragement. And don’t forget to listen to the @frankskishow on @WHURFM every weekday from 3pm-7pm! #AMEN #beblessed #God  #joy #faith #frankski #inspirationalvitamin ✝️🙏🏽✝️

 

 

T-Mobile’s Network Will Stop Working With Older Phones

The affected devices are not able to receive a software update that will allow them to stay connected.

T-Mobile’s Network Will Stop Working With Over a Dozen Older Phones This Month

Over a dozen T-Mobile devices will not work after January 29th.
Customers were notified on December 18th.
The devices won’t work due to a network update.
The affected devices are not able to receive a software update that will allow them to stay connected.
Contact T-Mobile for an upgrade.
Are you planning on buying a new phone soon? What phone are you interested in getting?

Maya Rudolph On Most Stressful Part About Play Kamala Harris On SNL

“The only thing stressful about going to SNL was the idea of getting there.”

Maya Rudolph has been portraying Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris on SNL.
When asked what was the hardest part about taking on the role Maya said it was getting out of her pajamas.
“The only thing stressful about going to SNL was the idea of getting there.”
She said when she first heard VP-Elect Harris was going to be President-Elect Biden’s running mate she had been happily living in nightgowns at home and was not ready to travel.
Maya said she feels very safe at SNL and with their protocols.
What is your favorite SNL skit featuring Maya Rudolph?

Airbnb to Block, Cancel DC Bookings Ahead of Inauguration

Airbnb has had a policy of removing guests who are confirmed to be members of hate groups since 2017.

NEW YORK (AP) — Airbnb says it will be blocking and cancelling all reservations in the Washington, D.C. area during the week of the presidential inauguration. The decision, announced Wednesday, came two days after it said it was reviewing reservations in the area ahead of next week’s presidential inauguration and said it will bar any guests associated with hate groups or violent activity. Airbnb has had a policy of removing guests who are confirmed to be members of hate groups since 2017, when it blocked guests who were headed to a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Louis Vuitton Names Naomi Osaka Newest Brand Ambassador

“Funny story : I first bought my mom a LV bag when I was 16 as a birthday present and it’s kinda been a tradition since. Do I call this a full circle moment? Yes,” Naomi Osaka said via Instagram.

House To Impeach President Today

All is all but certain that President Trump will be impeached a second time.

It is expected that the House of Representatives will impeach President Trump today.  The House will vote on one article charging the president with incitement and insurrection, accusing him of encouraging the rioters who stormed the Capitol last week.  House members passed a resolution late last night requesting that Vice President Mike Pence invoke the 25th Amendment to remove the president from office.  Pence sent a letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi saying he would not do that. Representative Jamie Raskin of Maryland will lead the Democrats impeachment case.  Five House Republicans say they will vote to impeach.

Empowering Women

The Junior League of Prince George’s County is providing women leadership training

Doing good in the neighborhood.  This morning I’m spotlighting some ladies in Prince George’s County moving to make some impactful changes to their communities.  The organization is the Junior League of Prince George’s County.  My guests are Diana Emerson and Donyel Bacon – Presidents of Junior League of Prince George’s County

The Junior League of Prince George’s County is creating real change by advancing social activism-focused projects that directly benefit the county.  By empowering women and providing valuable leadership training, the Junior League of Prince George’s County gives local women the tools to get involved, put their talents to work, and positively impact the community.  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:

Segment 1:

Segment 2:

Reporters’ Roundtable

Attack on the U.S. Capitol, impeachment and the rest of the top stories of the week.

Earlier today President Trump denied any responsibility in the deadly attack on the U.S. Capitol.  The President could be just a day away from a 2nd impeachment or removal by the 25th Ammendment.  It’s just one of several stories we’re examining at the Reporters’ Roundtable.

Eva McKend, Washington Correspondent, Spectrum News

Bruce Johnson, Veteran Journalist