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Knowing Your Legal Rights During This Pandemic

Maryland Legal Aid has resources to help residents having challenges paying their rent or utilities

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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The Covid-19 Pandemic has impacted people’s personal finances, many whom have been laid off, furloughed or had to take paycuts.  This has put a strain on family finances and forcing many to choose between paying bills and buying food.  If you’re having challenges with paying your rent or utility bills, Maryland Legal Aid has some great resources.  My guest this morning is Meaghan McDermott – Maryland Legal Aid with answers to questions regarding your rights and what protections are in place for you during the coronavirus pandemic.  More information can be found at:  http://www.mdlab.org

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

 

 

CNN Commentator Bakari Sellers

Bakari Sellers discusses politics, racism and racial justice.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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All week long we’re having conversations about race relations and racial injustice in America. We speak with progressive firebrand Bakari Sellers who has been outspoken on those very issues. He’s also the author of a very relevant memoir entitled, “My Vanishing Country”.

Resources:

Bakari Sellers Website

Bakari Sellers, Attorney, Author, CNN Political Commentator

 

 

PG Police Chief Steps Down

Hank Stawinski hands in his resignation

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Largo, Maryland (Thursday, June 18, 2020) – Prince George’s County Police Chief Hank Stawinski has called it quits.  He submitted his resignation to County Executive Angela Alsobrooks today who has accepted it.  Alsobrooks is set to make a statement on the issue tomorrow at 12noon.  In a statement released by the County Executive, it says the resignation is effective immediately.

The resignation comes after officers suing the county filed an expert report Thursday that they say shows systems of discrimination and retaliation exist within the department.  The county NAACP planned to hold a vote of no-confidence in Stawinski’s leadership.

In an interview with WHUR just moments ago, Joe Perez, President of the Hispanic National Law Enforcement Association  said others with in the top ranks of the police department also need to go.  “We can’t move forward with some of his (Hank Stawinski) other command staff still there.  There is still other work needs to be done.”

The original lawsuit, filed with the backing of the ACLU of Maryland and the Washington Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs claimed a pattern of discrimination and retaliation against Black and Latinx officers.

Singer Of Black Anthem Song Signs Record Deal

“It just moved me to create music around his vocal,” said Dem Jointz, who produced music for the song and then contacted the family to share his version with them. “It was so much energy coming from the video alone, it was just easy for me to produce around that.”

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NEW YORK (AP) — Keedron Bryant, the 12-year-old who turned heads on social media with his passionate performance about being a young black man in today’s world, has signed a deal with Warner Records and his poignant song will officially be released Friday.

Keedron Bryant’s powerful video, posted on May 26, features the lyrics “I’m a young black man doing all that I can” from the song “I Just Wanna Live,” written by his mother. Friday’s release of the track coincides with Juneteenth, the holiday to commemorate the emancipation of slaves in the U.S.

“It’s very exciting because this is what God’s called me to do,” Keedron Bryant said in an interview with The Associated Press this week, adding that “it’s just been an exciting experience to work with my mom.”

Johnnetta Bryant, 38, said watching the video of George Floyd dying as a police officer pressed a knee on his neck “really hit my heart just so deeply because I am a mom to a black son. I have a black husband. I have black brothers, uncles, cousins, friends.”

So she said a prayer and asked God to send her a sign.

“I needed his wisdom. I went into prayer. He gave me those words so clearly,” Johnnetta Bryant said of writing the “I Just Wanna Live” lyrics. “I shared it with Keedron … and I told him, ‘…I want you to take these words and I want you to pray over them. Meditate on them. Whenever you’re done with them, come out and we’ll record it.’ He did just that.”

The clip went viral, with Barack Obama, LeBron James, Janet Jackson, Lupita Nyong’o and more acknowledging its impact and importance on social media.

Like most of the world, music producer Dem Jointz saw the video of Keedron Bryant singing a cappella, saying “it hit me in the gut.”

“It just moved me to create music around his vocal,” said Dem Jointz, who produced music for the song and then contacted the family to share his version with them. “It was so much energy coming from the video alone, it was just easy for me to produce around that.”

Dem Jointz’s re-working of the song caught the attention of the head of urban marketing at Warner Records: “I was already moved by the record but hearing the vocals over the production, it just hit me in another way,” Chris Atlas said.

“I was like, ‘Wow this is an amazing song.’ We should be a part of making sure the world hears this on a larger capacity but then also donate proceeds from the song to the right cause,” the senior vice president added. “That’s actually giving back and using music as a healing mechanism, which I truly believe it is.”

Warner Records is donating 100% of the net profits of “I Just Wanna Live” to the NAACP and for every stream of the song on Amazon Music, the company will donate $1 to the NAACP for the first 24 hours the song is out, giving up to $50,000.

Born in Sicily, Italy, to minister parents, Keedron Bryant began singing when he was 5. He gained fame earlier this year when he appeared on the NBC variety series “Little Big Shots.”

Johnnetta Bryant said since writing “I Just Wanna Live” she’s caught the songwriting bug.

“I actually just finished five songs,” she said. “I never would have considered myself to be a songwriter, but I do know that God speaks to me. What he gives me is necessary and in season. He’s doing a new thing in me. I’m humbly so grateful for it.”

“She has an untapped talent,” said Dem Jointz, who has produced for Christina Aguilera, Rihanna, Dr. Dre, Anderson .Paak and K-pop group NCT 127. “She was anointed by God and it came from her heart.”

Keedron Bryant, who turns 13 on July 3, said he’s excited to record more songs and work with Warner on music. He said though “I Just Wanna Live” came from a dark place, he’s looking forward to society changing for the better.

“It’s unfair that black people can’t go out and enjoy life and live without having fear that something’s going to happen to them, so it was kind of sad to sing those lyrics,” Keedron Bryant said. “But (there’s) still hope in the world that we can change the world.”

 

Atlanta Police Officer Devin Brosnan Turns Himself In

Prosecutors said Brosnan was cooperating with their investigation, but his attorney said he has not agreed to be a state’s witness.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Atlanta, GA)  —  Atlanta Police Officer Devin Brosnan is in custody for his role in the death of Rayshard Brooks in a Wendy’s parking lot.  He faced a deadline to turn himself in by six tonight.  Brosnan is being charged with aggravated assault and violating his oath during the confrontation with Brooks last week.  Former officer Garrett Rolfe faces the same deadline to turn himself in.  He’s being charged with felony murder among others.  Prosecutors said Brosnan was cooperating with their investigation, but his attorney said he has not agreed to be a state’s witness.

 

House Speak Wants Confederate Portraits Down

Pelosi orders removal of Confederate portraits from Capitol

Posted by Harold Fisher
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WASHINGTON (AP) — House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says she is ordering the removal from the Capitol of portraits honoring four previous House speakers who served in the Confederacy. In a letter Thursday to the House clerk, Pelosi directed the immediate removal of portraits depicting former speakers. They are Robert Hunter of Virginia, James Orr of South Carolina and Howell Cobb and Charles Crisp, both of Georgia. Pelosi says that “there is no room in the hallowed halls of Congress or in any place of honor for memorializing men who embody the violent bigotry and grotesque racism of the Confederacy.”

Preparing Women for Success

DC’s Dress for Success is now launching a Virtual Career Center

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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It’s all about my ladies this morning, even in the midst of the new world of virtual reality.  DC’s Dress for Success is  launching a new Virtual Career Center to help with everything from career coaching, resume writing,  jobs searches, and interview techniques.  My guest is Susan Kyles – Executive Director of DC Dress for Success

 DC Dress for Success is launching a new Virtual Career Center and is offering financial management, health and wellness, work life balance, professional etiquette, leadership and community action training.  They are even adding,  “Suiting into a Box” for clients who need free professional clothing. For more information go here:

 Listen to this mornings segment here:

Decompressing During the Stresses of 2020

How do you de-stress and decompress during the rough ride of 2020?

Posted by Harold Fisher
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Philanthropist, fitness expert and celebrity life-coach A.J. Johnson is checking in and making sure you do the same. How are you doing… is the question we keep asking ourselves and others. How do you de-stress and decompress during the rough ride of 2020?

Resources:

A.J. Johnson

Guest:

A.J. Johnson, Philanthropist, Fitness Expert, Celebrity Life Coach

 

A Conversation On Defunding Police Departments

There is a move to redirect funds away from police departments and towards community based programs. How and should that take place? It is a topic being debated across the country.

Posted by Andrea Muñoz
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Tonight, part two of our conversation on policing and proposed reforms to police departments across the country.

In part one we heard from the men and women in blue whose charge is to serve and protect.

Tonight, we hear from elected officials who make the laws and who represent the community.

Are new laws needed?  And if so, what should they look like and would they make a difference?  Just a few of the questions we’ll tackle.

AUDIO:

Our guests:

Will Jawando – Member of the Montgomery County Council

Phil Mendelson – Chairman of the DC Council

 

Living Your Dream During The Pandemic

Local African American business owners share their tips to running a small business during the pandemic.

Posted by Andrea Muñoz
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Your dream is to open a business.  You’ve made it your mission.  You do it.  You’re living it.  But then COVID-19 hits, hard.  It is a game changer.  Especially for African American small businesses owners.

Tonight, we will be joined by two black business owners who will share their experiences of trying to run a successful and thriving business during the pandemic.

AUDIO:

Our guest:

Karin Sellers – Owner, Here’s The Scoop

Charles “Shorty Corleone” Garris – Co-Owner, DCity Wings & Shorty’s

Officer Charged with Murder In Rayshard Brooks Shooting

Prosecutors say officers stood on Rayshard Brooks’ back and shoulders after shooting him.

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(Wednesday, June 17, 2020) – Prosecutors in Fulton County, Georgia are hitting the Atlanta police officer who fatally shot Rayshard Brooks with nearly a dozen charges, including felony murder.

Brooks was shot twice in the back last Friday after a scuffle with police in which he was able to break flee with one of the officer’s stun guns.

Garrett Rolfe who has been fired from the police force is also accused of kicking Brooks while he lay on the ground and the other officer Davin Brosnan stood on Brooks’ shoulders as the father of 4 struggled for life, said Attorney Paul Howard at a Wednesday press conference.

The Brooks shooting has touched off even more protests in Georgia, which has already been on edge from demonstrations in the George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis.

Brooks was shot last Friday in a Wendy’s parking after police were called to the area over complaints of a car blocking the drive-thru lane.  An officer found brooks sleep behind the wheel and called for another officer to do field sobriety testing.  Police body cam video shows Brooks and the officers talking for nearly 40 minutes before they tried to handcuff him and that’s when things turned sour.

Brooks’ widow and family attorney attended today’s announcement of the charges.

Brosnan is charged with aggravated assault and other crimes.  He has been placed on administrative leave.

 

Black Lives Matter Network Establishes $12M Grant Fund

A separate $6.5 million fund has been established for its network of 16 affiliate chapters.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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NEW YORK (AP) — A group behind the emergence of the Black Lives Matter movement has established a more than $12 million fund to aid organizations fighting institutional racism in the wake of the George Floyd protests. The Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation said it is setting aside $6 million from donations to support black-led organizing groups. A separate $6.5 million fund has been established for its network of 16 affiliate chapters. The foundation told The Associated Press Wednesday it has received more than 1.1 million individual donations at an average of $33 per gift since Floyd died after a white Minneapolis police officer held his knee to the black man’s neck.

DC Could Enter Phase 2 Reopening Monday

Mayor Bowser says the District is trending in the right direction for Phase 2

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Washington, D.C. (Wednesday, June 17, 2020) – D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser says the District is trending in the right direction and could begin Phase 2 reopening as early as Monday, June 22nd.  As of today, the District has had 13 days of decline in community spread.

The District has a total of 9,847 persons who have tested positive for COVID-19 with 523 fatalities.

 

Aunt Jemima Going Away

Iconic figure is being replaced from packaging in a move toward racial equality.

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Washington, D.C. (Wednesday, June 17, 2020) – In another sign of the times, Aunt Jemima is changing its name and removing the Black character seen for generations.  The brand owner, Quaker Oats, says the iconic Aunt Jemima figure is based on a racial stereotype.  It says the name change and removing the image are part of an effort to make progress toward racial equality.

Parent Company PepsiCo told Adweek that the new name for the syrup and other products will be revealed at a later date.  In the meantime, starting in the 4th quarter, the Black figure will no longer be seen on the packaging.

The brand was formed in 1889 and the character on the box was inspired by a Black storyteller and cook named Nancy Green.  The character has evolved over the years. According to the company website, Aunt Jemima was said to have been born into slavery. Quaker Oats purchased the brand in 1926 and switched out Aunt Jemima’s original red bandana in 1989 for a Black woman with pearls and curly black hair.

Eddie Levert Shares Story Of Son Dying In Police Custody

We’re talking about the issue that everyone is concerned about these days… the loss of black men while in the custody of law enforcement.  This issue hits home for Levert.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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Tonight we have the honor of sitting down with Eddie Levert of the O’Jays.  But we’re not talking about music.  We’re talking about the issue that everyone is concerned about these days… the loss of black men while in the custody of law enforcement.  This issue hits home for Levert. He lost one of his sons in a similar manner.

Showing Love To Black Fathers for Father’s Day

The Black Fathers Matters Project is asking for a show of love and support for Black Fathers this Sunday

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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Father’s Day is coming up this weekend and I have details about what a group of Black Fathers is doing to help showcase the value of Black dads.  It’s called the Black Fathers Matters Project.  My guest is  Chuck Hicks

DC BLACK FATHERS MATTERS PROJECT is asking DC residents to show their solidarity by displaying a black balloon or a black ribbon in front of their home, from their balcony, on a tree, on their car or any visible location.  The committee is also asking residents to create banners, yards signs or other displays to show support for BLACK FATHERS MATTER AND BLACK LIVES MATTER and display them as early as Sunday, June 14. Balloons and ribbons should be displayed on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 21.    (202) 421-8608 or blackfathersmatter2020@gmail.com.

 

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Graduates Scooping Up Some Tasty Treats

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Washington, D.C. (Tuesday, June 16, 2020) – Nobody would debate the reality that this indeed has been a challenging year for many.  Most graduates have had there special day completely altered.  Whether it’s the little ones going from Pre-K to kindergarten or the college senior preparing for the real world, big plans of graduation ceremonies were severely hampered this year by the coronavirus pandemic.

“Here’s the Scoop,” a black owned ice cream parlor in the District of Columbia in partnership with WHUR, sought to put some smiles on the faces of those graduates.  Here’s the Scoop dished out free ice cream today to the Class of 2020.  Using social distancing guidelines, owner Karin Sellers packed up dozens of individual cups of ice cream and handed them out to students as they drove by.

“It’s our small way of letting them know we are proud of them and we wanted to give back to the community even in the midst of this pandemic,” said Sellers.  Dressed in their school colors and with cars decked out in school spirit, dozens of youth and their parents took advantage of the free treats.  “I love ice cream and I especially love it even more when it’s free,” said one student.

WHUR was happy to be on the scene to play music and make the giveaway fun and festive for all.  Congratulations to the Class of 2020.  You DID IT!!!

Anti-Racism Activist Jane Elliot

We speak with the anti-racism activist who is still teaching lessons about prejudice and racism.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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52 years ago, school teacher Jane Elliot performed an exercise for white, elementary age children.  The ground-breaking blue eyes, brown eyes exercise gave them an unvarnished look at prejudice and racism.  Today, we sit down with the anti-racism activist who is still teaching those same lessons to all of us.

Guest:

Jane Elliot, Anti-Racism Activist

 

Anxiety Post-Quarantine At An All-Time High

If you or someone you know is suffering from anxiety or a mental illness please seek professional help.  This is not medical advice, this is from personal experience. 

Posted by WHUR
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Contributed by Diamond Sydnor

Experiencing anxiety right now during a pandemic is more common than you may think. That’s right! Calm down! You are not alone.  Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an event or an uncertain outcome.  Anxiety disorder is the constant experience of anxiety on a heightened level.  Anxiety symptoms include irritability, restlessness, sweating, excessive worry, lack of concentration, and unwanted thoughts.  More heightened symptoms include nausea, palpitations, trembling, feelings of impending doom and fear.  Anxiety affects 40 million people in the U.S. each year.

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a serious impact on the mental health of citizens everywhere.  It is completely normal to experience it during this time, especially with the state of the world.  Some states and countries are moving into different phases in order to reopen the economy however, the symptoms of anxiety may still linger due to the number of cases steadily increasing while more and more economies are constantly reopening.

If not carefully handled anxiety can cause other severe health issues.  Before it gets to that, let’s discuss ways to carefully deal with anxiety during a pandemic:

 

  1. Disconnect at some point from the news and social media.  Constantly hearing updates can trigger anxiety symptoms.
  2. For essential travel such as the grocery store, go super early in the morning or later at night to avoid large crowds.
  3. Talk with trusted family members about how you are feeling
  4. Eat healthy! Believe it or not the food we eat releases endorphins that make us feel good. If you eat junk, you’ll feel like junk.
  5. Drinking plenty of water to flush your system of toxins that can cause emotional distress
  6. Exercise daily to release endorphins that keep you feeling happy. Go for a walk for at least 30 mins a day
  7. Change the scenery! Being in quarantine can make you feel like you are losing it. Walk outside to the park by your home and spend some time with nature, but please bring a mask and practice social distancing
  8. Find a hobby! Anxiety is all based on your mind and mindset. Do things you enjoy to keep your focus off of what has you feeling anxious
  9. Protect yourself and do what makes you comfortable, even if some view it as dramatic! As the economy is reopening in several states more people will be out. If you need to wear gloves, wear gloves. If you need to wear a mask wear a mask, even if you need to wear a mask and a face shield, wear what makes you comfortable
  10. Lastly, give yourself grace! Everyday will not be a walk in the park, but each day try to conquer something new.

Anxiety can control you or you can control it.  Let’s work together to conquer it!

If you or someone you know is suffering from anxiety or a mental illness please seek professional help.  This is not medical advice, this is from personal experience.

Va. Governor Pushes to Declare Juneteenth Paid Holiday

Pharrell Williams joins Governor Northam calling to make Juneteenth a state holiday.

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(Tuesday, June 16, 2020) – Virginia Governor Ralph Northam wants to make Juneteenth an official paid holiday in the Commonwealth and he’s pushing state legislators to make it happen.  Joined by Virginia native Pharrell Williams, Northam said by commemorating Juneteenth it says to black communities that this is not just your history, this is everyone’s shared history.

Williams said he called Northam this past weekend to talk about the potential for making Juneteenth a state holiday.  Using his executive power, Northam gave executive branch state employees this Friday, June 19th the day off with pay.

Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people in the U.S.  The holiday was first celebrated in Texas, where on that date in 1865, slaves were declared free under the terms of the 1862 Emancipation Proclamation.  “We are changing what we honor in Virginia,” said Northam.

This is a big display of progress and I’m grateful for Virginia and us leading the way,” added Williams.

Trump Signs Police Reform Executive Order

The order is aimed at encouraging best practices and tracking officers with excessive use of force complaints.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump has signed an executive order on policing following weeks of national protests after the death of George Floyd. The order is aimed at encouraging best practices and tracking officers with excessive use of force complaints. In the Rose Garden, Trump stressed the need for higher standards and commiserated with mourning families, even as he hailed the vast majority of officers as selfless public servants and held his law-and-order line. The order comes as Senate Republicans prepare to unveil their own package of policing proposals after Democrats did the same.

Drake Tops BET Awards Nods; Show To Air On CBS For 1st Time

Beyoncé, Minaj, Brown, Lizzo and DaBaby earned four nominations each.

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NEW YORK (AP) — Drake is the leading nominee at the 2020 BET Awards, which will celebrate its 20th anniversary later this month.

BET announced Monday that Drake is nominated for six honors, including video of the year and best male hip-hop artist. For both best collaboration and the viewer’s choice award, Drake is nominated twice thanks to the hits “No Guidance” with Chris Brown and “Life Is Good” with Future.

The 2020 BET Awards will air live on June 28 across ViacomCBS networks, including CBS for the first time. The show, which will be a virtual celebration because of the coronavirus pandemic, will also air on BET and BET HER.

Breakthrough rappers Megan Thee Stallion and Roddy Ricch follow Drake with five nominations each. Megan Thee Stallion, who recently topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart with her Beyoncé-assisted “Savage” remix, is nominated for video of the year, best female hip-hop artist, best collaboration, the viewer’s choice award and album of the year for “Fever.”

Ricch, who won his first Grammy Award earlier this year, also topped the pop charts with his upbeat hit “The Box.” The video for that song is nominated for video of the year alongside DaBaby’s “Bop,” DJ Khaled, Nipsey Hussle and John Legend’s “Higher,” Doja Cat’s “Say So,” Megan The Stallion’s “Hot Girl Summer” and Chris Brown and Drake’s “No Guidance.”

Beyoncé, Minaj, Brown, Lizzo and DaBaby earned four nominations each.

Kanye West, who released a gospel album last year, is nominated for the Dr. Bobby Jones best gospel/inspirational award. He will compete with Kirk Franklin, the Clark Sisters, Fred Hammond, John P. Kee and PJ Morton.

Saints’ Jenkins Joins CNN As Social Justice Contributor

“I believe I can be a voice for other athlete activists and those who have dedicated their lives to changing legislation, policies and reforms for human equality,” Jenkins said, touting his experience addressing “the inequalities of our criminal justice system, educational system and disparate wealth in our marginalized communities” during his 11-year NFL career.

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ATLANTA (AP) — New Orleans Saints safety Malcolm Jenkins will join CNN as a contributor focusing on racial and social justice, the network announced Monday.

“I believe I can be a voice for other athlete activists and those who have dedicated their lives to changing legislation, policies and reforms for human equality,” Jenkins said, touting his experience addressing “the inequalities of our criminal justice system, educational system and disparate wealth in our marginalized communities” during his 11-year NFL career.

With protesters amassing in cities nationwide in the wake of the police killing of George Floyd last month in Minneapolis, Jenkins has actively engaged in recent discussions about police brutality and police funding on social and in mainstream media, as well as at rallies. Jenkins was among Drew Brees’ harshest critics when the Saints quarterback re-stated his long-held opposition to protesting during the national anthem. Brees has since apologized for his comments, saying he now recognizes the protests were not about the flag or the anthem, and that he wants to help promote equality.

“As we move forward from these moments, journalists must not make the grave mistake of allowing the world to go back to sleep,” Jenkins said. “The ground swell of energy that has been injected into all of us must continue when the protests stop, and that includes responsible reporting.”

Jenkins was drafted by New Orleans out of Ohio State in 2009 and won a Super Bowl with the Saints his rookie season. He spent the past six seasons with Philadelphia, winning a second Super Bowl in the 2017 season, before returning to New Orleans as a free agent this offseason.

In 2017, Jenkins and retired wide receiver Anquan Boldin created the Players Coalition, a charity that advocates for racial and social equality.

The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation, launched in 2010, focuses on improving educational and other opportunities for students with limited financial resources in New Orleans, Ohio, Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

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More AP NFL: https://apnews.com/NFL and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL

Atlanta Mayor Vows Changes In How Police Officers Use Force

“I am often reminded of the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. — ‘There is a fierce urgency of now in our communities,’” the mayor said.

“It is clear that we do not have another day, another minute, another hour to waste,” she said.

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ATLANTA (AP) — Atlanta’s mayor is vowing to change police use-of-force policies and require that officers receive continuous training in how to deescalate situations before the consequences become fatal.

Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms announced her plans after the police killing of another black man, Rayshard Brooks, outside a fast-food restaurant on Friday touched off more large protests in the city.

“I am often reminded of the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. — ‘There is a fierce urgency of now in our communities,’” the mayor said.

“It is clear that we do not have another day, another minute, another hour to waste,” she said.

The mayor said she’ll also require officers to intervene if they see a colleague using excessive force, saying “they are duty-bound to intercede.”

“It’s very clear that our police officers are to be guardians and not warriors within our communities,” the mayor said.

Other cities nationwide are taking similar steps, and police reform proposals are emerging in Congress. Republicans plan a bill with restrictions on police chokeholds and other practices, while a Democratic proposal would limit legal protections for police, create a national database of excessive-force encounters and ban chokeholds. The White House plans to announce executive actions Tuesday.

Pleading through tears on Monday, Brooks’ relatives demanded changes in the criminal justice system and called on protesters to refrain from violence as tensions remain high across the U.S. three weeks after George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis.

An autopsy found that Brooks, 27, was shot twice in the back. Two white officers had responded to calls about a man who was asleep at the wheel in a Wendy’s drive-thru lane. Police video showed him cooperating until a breath test determined his blood-alcohol level was over the legal limit and one of the officers moved to handcuff him. The officers took him to the ground. Brooks broke free and took off with a stun gun; a white officer shot him as he tried to run away.

“When does it stop? We’re not only pleading for justice. We’re pleading for change,” said Chassidy Evans, Brooks’ niece.

Relatives described Brooks as a loving father of three daughters and a stepson who had a bright smile and a big heart and loved to dance. Evans said there was no reason for him “to be shot and killed like trash in the street for falling asleep in a drive-thru.”

Floyd’s death on May 25 after a white Minneapolis officer pressed his knee into the black man’s neck touched off demonstrations and scattered violence across the U.S., and Brooks’ killing rekindled those protests in Atlanta. The Wendy’s restaurant where Brooks was shot was burned down over the weekend.

Several Democratic lawmakers joined the protests and called for Georgia to repeal its citizen’s arrest and stand-your-ground laws, among a slate of other proposed reforms. State Republicans have pushed back against swift action on most of the Democratic agenda.

Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard said he hopes to decide by midweek whether to bring charges in the Brooks case. Officer Garrett Rolfe, who fired the shots that killed Brooks, was fired, and the other officer at the scene, Devin Brosnan, was put on desk duty. Police Chief Erika Shields resigned.

Officials nationwide are responding to calls for reform while protests persist. The New York City Police Department is disbanding the type of plainclothes anti-crime units that were involved in the 2014 chokehold death of Eric Garner and have long been criticized for aggressive tactics, Commissioner Dermot Shea said Monday.

In Chicago, Mayor Lori Lightfoot said a panel of residents, activists and one police official will review the Police Department’s policy on when officers can use force. Albuquerque, New Mexico, Mayor Tim Keller said he wants a new department of social workers and civilian professionals to provide another option when someone calls 911.

New Jersey’s attorney general ordered police to begin divulging names of officers who commit serious disciplinary violations.

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Associated Press contributors include Russ Bynum in Savannah, and Ben Nadler in Atlanta.

 

It’s Still Important To Wear Your Mask

The Black Coalition Against Covid has created the “I Mask 4 DC” campaign.

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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It’s become a part of our daily routine.  But despite it being a life-saving effort, many people are still failing to wear a mask to help stop the spread of the coronavirus.  This morning, I have details about a campaign designed to get everyone to mask-up.  It’s called the I Mask for DC, a video festival and competition.  My guest is Dr. Reed Tuckson – Black Coalition Against COVID

Black Coalition Against COVID is sponsoring the #iMask4DC Video Festival and Competition.  The goal is to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to the community by promoting mask-wearing during this pandemic.  The deadline to submit for the competition is June 20th.  For details, go here:

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Fear of Police, Black Men and Emotional Trauma

How publicity about deadly encounters between police and black men are impacting mental health.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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      Amid the growing list of black men who have had fatal police contact… are black men who are concerned that they may be next.  June is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month. We look at black men, mental illness and how the fear of a police encounter is impacting them.

Guest:

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Dr. Ronald Evans, Licenced Clinical Professional Counselor

 

Rayshard Brooks Family Calls For Justice

`When does it stop?’ Slain man’s family makes tearful plea.

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ATLANTA (AP) — The family of a black man killed in a scuffle with Atlanta police outside a fast food drive-thru is pleading for nonviolent protests and policy changes to end future deaths in police custody. About 20 relatives of 27-year-old Rayshard Brooks said at a news conference Monday that he was a loving father with a big heart. Brooks was shot late Friday as police tried to arrest for being intoxicated behind the wheel. His niece, Chassidy Evans, said the family isn’t just pleading for justice, but also for change. Meanwhile, more than 1,000 people joined a protest outside the Georgia Capitol, where Democratic lawmakers are pushing for a slate of criminal justice reforms.

Byron Cage Talks “Broken, But I’m Healed,” Bishop Walter S. Thomas Offers COVID Testing

Byron Cage is a multiple Stellar award-winning Gospel artist who is the Minister of Music at Ebenezer AME in Fort Washington, Maryland. Byron’s song, “Broken, But I’m Healed” was sung as the family walked into the sanctuary at George Floyd’s funeral in Houston.

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On this edition of HUR@HOME Inspiration we talked with two anointed men of God who are inspiring millions of believers around the world. Bishop Walter Scott Thomas, Sr. is known as “Pastor’s Pastor,” and is the Senior Pastor of New Psalmist Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland. He served as the past president of the Hampton University Minister’s Conference and received his Master of Divinity from the Howard University School of Religion.

Bishop talked about how George Floyd’s death birthed a racial awakening in this country. African Americans who are privileged with wealth and status are forced to recognize that they are still members of the oppressed race. He said that non-Black allies to the cause of ending racial injustice need to do more than just “understand.” They need to be pro-active. Bishop Thomas talked about how New Psalmist Baptist in Baltimore is providing food and COVID-19 testing to its community and he announced the upcoming Medical Town Hall.

Byron Cage is a multiple Stellar award-winning Gospel artist who is the Minister of Music at Ebenezer AME in Fort Washington, Maryland. Byron’s song, “Broken, But I’m Healed” was sung as the family walked into the sanctuary at George Floyd’s funeral in Houston.

Byron told the story of how Bishop Walter Thomas gave him the inspiration he needed to leave Bishop Eddie Long’s church as minister of music. He said it was one of the best decisions he had ever made. Byron talked about his new song is called, “Oh How Good It Is” and his new book that chronicles his 30 years as a Minister of Music and how to maximize the role of Music Ministers in churches today.

DC Expanding COVID-19 Testing at Fire Stations

Free walk-up coronavirus testing now available at more DC firehouses

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WASHINGTON, DC) – Beginning, Monday June, 15, the District is expanding free COVID-19 testing to include four firehouses each day, Monday-Saturday. The firehouse testing sites are walk-up and no appointment is needed.

Over the past two weeks, two firehouses have been open each evening, Monday through Friday, for free COVID-19 testing. So far, more than 2,300 people have been tested at a firehouse. The testing at these sites is done by personnel from the DC Fire and EMS Department, the Public Health Lab, and the Department of Health.

The new firehouse testing schedule is below:

Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

  • Engine 4 (2531 Sherman Ave NW)
  • Engine 11 (3420 14th St NW)
  • Engine 24 (5101 Georgia Ave NW)
  • Engine 31 (4930 Connecticut Ave NW)

Thursday and Friday, 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., and Saturday from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

  • Engine 8 (1520 C St SE)
  • Engine 10 (1342 Florida Ave NE)
  • Engine 30 (50 49th St NE)
  • Engine 33 (101 Atlantic St SE)

The firehouse testing sites are in addition to the many free testing sites across DC, including the walk-up testing site at F Street, NW between 4th and 5th Streets, NW and the drive-thru and walk-up testing sites at 2241 Martin Luther King Jr Avenue SE in Ward 8 and at the UDC-CC Bertie Backus campus in Ward 5.

Residents are still encouraged to access testing through their health care providers so that they are connected to health care. However, anyone who needs a test can get a test at the testing locations listed above.

Find a full list of testing locations at coronavirus.dc.gov/testing.

For more information on the District’s COVID-19 response, visit coronavirus.dc.gov.

 

Autopsy Shows Rayshard Brooks Shot Twice In the Back

White officer who shot and killed black man outside Wendy’s could face murder charges.

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(Sunday, June 14, 2020) – The Fulton County, Georgia Medical Examiner’s Office has ruled the death of Rayshard Brooks as a homicide and shows he was shot twice in the back.

Brooks is the latest black man, whose death at the hands of police, has touched off protests in the streets of Atlanta and elsewhere.  Brooks was shot Friday night outside a Wendy’s after  being approached by officers for sleeping inside his car at the fast food.  Much of the incident was caught on video.  It shows, as officers tried to place Brooks under arrest for suspected driving under the influence, some kind of scuffle occurred.  The camera also shows Brooks getting hold of one of the officer’s tasers and may have fired the taser at the officers as he ran away.

One officer then fatally shot the 27-year-old father of four.  The officer, Garrett Rolfe,  has been fired.  A second officer, Devin Brosnan, has been placed on administrative leave.  Rolf, the officer who fatally shot Brooks, could face murder charges.  GBI has launched an investigation.

The shooting has touched off more protests in and around Atlanta.  The Wendy’s where the shooting took place was set on-fire Saturday.  Meantime, the police chief of Atlanta, Erika Shields, has stepped down in the midst of the

THE JOURNEY: “The Black Coalition Against COVID”

President Frederick speaks with Marie Johns, a Trustee at Howard University, as well as the Chairwoman of the Student Life Committee and Ambrose Lane Jr., Co-Founder of the Black Coalition Against COVID and Chair of the Health Alliance Network.

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ABOUT

Many community leaders are lending a helping hand for those who have been impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic. In the District of Columbia, there is a new coalition with a strong initiative to stop the spread and to keep the African American communities informed. On today’s episode of “The Journey,” President Frederick speaks with Marie Johns, a Trustee at Howard University, as well as the Chairwoman of the Student Life Committee and Ambrose Lane Jr., Co-Founder of the Black Coalition Against COVID and Chair of the Health Alliance Network.

Air Date: June 14, 2020

Mother Of Son Shot By DC Police Sues For Millions

The mother of a 22-year-old killed by DC police is suing the District and its police department for millions.

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On June 12, 2018, 22-year-old Marquees Alston was shot and killed by DC police.  Now two years later, his mother filed a 100-million dollar lawsuit against the District.  Police say they shot Alston after he first fired at them from an alley way.   Kenithia Alston, Marquees Alston’s mother, rejects the police version and has requested the release of the officers’ body-worn camera footage.

This week the DC Council unanimously approved reforms to the city’s police department, which included changes to how the public can access police body cam video.

Biden’s Running Mate Search Narrows

Joe Biden’s potential running mate list has narrowed to six, according to Democratic officials.

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Joe Biden’s search for a running mate is entering a second round of vetting with several black women in strong contention.

Democrats with knowledge of the process said the former vice-president’s search committee has whittled the choices down to as few as six serious contenders after initial interviews. Those still in the hunt include African Americans Senator Kamala Harris, Susan Rice, who served as President Barack Obama’s national security adviser, Florida representative Val Demings and Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms.  New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, a Latina, is also a candidate along with Senator Elizabeth Warren.

Pharrell Williams Proposes Virginia Black Lives Matter Art

Williams, a recording artist and producer who’s from the city, proposed the tribute in an Instagram post this week, adding a photo of what the message would look like along Virginia Beach’s boardwalk with the caption “VB let’s make it happen.”

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VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (AP) — Virginia Beach is considering painting Black Lives Matter down its oceanfront boardwalk after Grammy-winning musician Pharrell Williams supported the idea on social media.

Williams, a recording artist and producer who’s from the city, proposed the tribute in an Instagram post this week, adding a photo of what the message would look like along Virginia Beach’s boardwalk with the caption “VB let’s make it happen.”

An Instagram page called Oceanfront9 had first posted the photo, The Virginian-Pilot reported.

Last week, the same words were painted in giant yellow letters down the Washington street that leads to the White House. Mayor Muriel Bowser said the painting was intended to send a message of support and solidarity to Americans outraged over the killing of George Floyd by police in Minneapolis.

More than 136,000 people had liked Williams’ post as of Thursday morning and Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer said Wednesday that he and city staff planned to discuss whether the artwork could happen.

“Obviously, it would involve (a city) council decision and also working with the community,” The Virginian-Pilot quoted Dyer as saying. “We’re going to be looking at multiple ways of addressing the concerns of African American people.”

Williams went to high school in Virginia Beach and has since been involved in a number of causes in the city, including organizing the multi-day “Something in the Water” music festival and penning a new song for a tourism advertisement campaign.

‘Cops,’ On Air For 33 Seasons, Dropped By Paramount Network

The show had been pulled temporarily from the air in late May, when protests aimed at police over the death of George Floyd began to gain momentum. That move was made permanent Tuesday.

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LOS ANGELES (AP) — After 33 seasons on the air, “Cops” has been dropped by the Paramount Network as protests against police proliferate around the world.

“Cops is not on the Paramount Network and we don’t have any current or future plans for it to return,” a spokesperson for the cable channel said in a statement Tuesday.

The show had been pulled temporarily from the air in late May, when protests aimed at police over the death of George Floyd began to gain momentum. That move was made permanent Tuesday.

It’s not clear whether the company that makes the show, Langley Productions, would try to find a new home for it. A voicemail at a company phone number was not accepting messages.

The reality show, with its widely known reggae theme song “Bad Boys,” allowed viewers to ride along with police officers on patrol in various cities.

It ran on the Fox network for 25 years until 2013, when Viacom-owned Spike TV picked it up. The show remained on the air after Spike was re-branded as the Paramount Network in 2018.

 

It’s Important to Keep Track of Your Health

A free app that can send your vitals directly to your Doctor in real time

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It is more important than ever to stay on top of your health and any underlying issues you may have as we navigate through these difficult times.  Taking tele-medicine to a whole new level with a free app that can send your vitals directly to your physician in real time, so you can get the medical attention you need immediately.  Mimi-Rx is a free app that can be downloaded to your phone or ipad.  A kit that can come with this app is like having a medical exam in a box, which includes a Electronic BP Cup, Infarred Thermometer, Pulse Oximeter and more.  For more information go to: www.theeagleforce.net/

My guest this morning is Walter Kirkland – Founding President of the 100 Blackmen of Prince George’s County

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Congressman Wants Confederate Names Removed From Naval Academy Buildings

Confederate names should come off Naval Academy buildings, according to a Maryland congressman.

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ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — The names of two members of the Confederacy should be removed from buildings at the U.S. Naval Academy, the chairman of the academy’s Board of Visitors said Thursday.

Rep. C.A Dutch Ruppersberger, a Maryland Democrat, said the Pentagon should consider removing Confederate names from all military bases as people across the country protest against racial inequality and police brutality.

“There has been discussion of renaming these buildings since at least 2017,” Ruppersberger said in a statement. “As the new Chairman, the time for discussion is over. It’s time for action. Midshipmen who have earned the privilege to study in one of our nation’s most prestigious institutions should not have to walk around campus and see buildings named for men who fought to uphold slavery and promote white supremacy.”

The academy superintendent’s residence is named after Franklin Buchanan, the academy’s first superintendent who left to join the Confederate Navy at the start of the Civil War. The academy’s Weapons and Systems Engineering division is house in Maury Hall. It’s named after Matthew Fontaine Maury, who was a leader in the fields of naval meteorology and navigation. He headed the coast, harbor and river defenses for the Confederate Navy.

“This isn’t about erasing history,” Ruppersberger said. “We simply shouldn’t lift up traitors who fought against American values like equality and tolerance.”

The congressman said he would bring up the issue at the board’s next meeting. The board is similar to a board of trustees at a civilian college and includes members of Congress. He also said he would offer an amendment to appropriations measures in Congress to require the academy to rename the two buildings.

“We are working hard to attract minority applicants to our service academies and all of our service branches,” Ruppersberger said. “We must send a strong and unequivocal message to all potential minority applicants that we stand united in opposing the glorification of leaders who defended slavery.”

President Donald Trump on Wednesday said his administration will “not even consider” changing the name of any of the 10 Army bases that are named for Confederate Army officers. Two days earlier, Defense Secretary Mark Esper indicated he was open to a broad discussion of such changes.

Supporters of disassociating military bases from Confederate Army officers argue they represent the racism and divisiveness of the Civil War era and glorify men who fought against the United States.

School Board Delays Vote On In-School Police

Prince George’s County school board to revisit the issue of police in county schools.

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The Prince George’s County school board postponed a vote on whether the school system will continue to have police resource officers in county schools.  The board was set to take a vote Thursday night, but have rescheduled the vote for September 14.  Supporters of taking police out of county schools want the over 3 million dollars used for police resource officers to be used to hire guidance and mental health counselors and implement educational programs.

Face Mask Makeup With Derrick Rutledge, NASCAR’s Rajah Caruth

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This edition of HUR@Home Lifestyle was particularly informative and inspiring. Let me begin with Celebrity Make-Up Artist, Derrick Rutledge:

Long time celebrity MUA, Derrick Rutledge, has been enhancing faces since the 80’s and 90’s. He’s credited for bringing out the best looks for countless celebrities, including Chaka Khan, Yolanda Adams, Patti LaBelle, Michele Obama, and for over the last decade, Oprah Winfrey.

We’re fortunate to have him give us much needed advice monthly, here on HUR@Home. This time, we focused on our current circumstances. Many of us are still social distancing and not planning to go to salons for beauty services any time soon. He addressed the fact that most of us are sleep deprived, and stressed about the Covid-19 pandemic. Along with the state of the world, as we continue to fight systemic racism and oppression. Watch and you’ll also get great ideas about how to wear your mask, without enduring the dreaded “mask lines” imprinted on your face.

Next, I had the chance to speak with a very young, accomplished NASCAR driver. At 17 years old, Rajah Caruth was the first, of only six members, to be selected for the 2020 NASCAR Drive For Diversity Development Program. He was selected based on his skills in iRacing. Did you know that NASCAR is one of the largest spectator sports in the US?  The largest NASCAR arena holds 190, 000 spectators…and in television is falls just behind the NFL as the most watched televised sporting event. This sport is still a very new environment for African Americans. Watch this interview and let’s follow Rajah Caruth on this amazing journey.

Shanice And Hubby Flex Address Racial Injustice With Kids

I have no words to describe the wonderful a capella surprise she dropped on all of us.

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Grammy award winner, Shanice, has been singing since she was 7 months old. It’s true. One can easily conclude that Shanice was born to sing. And with her 5 octave vocal range, she’s a musical force to be reckoned with. We all fell in love with her “Smile” and bubbly personality back in the day. Well, get ready to keep the love going as you watch this warm, candid conversation that went from her musical journey, to working through the Coronavirus pandemic, to what she and hubby Flex tell their children about racial injustices. I have no words to describe the wonderful a capella surprise she dropped on all of us. Watch the video to get your blessing. Follow at @shaniceonline @angelastribling

Walmart to Stop Locking Away Black Hair Care Products

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(Thursday, June 11, 2020) – Walmart is doing away with its policy of keeping multicultural  hair care products under lock and key.

In a tweet yesterday, the company said the practice of locking up the products was in place in a dozen of its stores nationwide.  “We serve millions of customers every day from diverse backgrounds.  We have made the decision to discontinue placing  multicultural  hair care and beauty products in locked cases,” the tweet said.

The move comes after a television station in Denver showed that some hair products catering mainly to black women were locked in a case, while those targeting white women were freely open on store shelves.

LeBron James Forms Voting Rights Group

LeBron James encourages African Americans to get registered and cast their ballots as the November elections draw near.

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(Thursday, June 11, 2020) – Basketball superstar LeBron James is starting a new group designed to tackle the issue of voting rights in the African American community.  The organization called “More Than a Vote,” will be aimed at inspiring African Americans to register and to cast a ballot in November.

James says the new group, which will include other current and former basketball greats, will work to protect African American voting rights.

In an interview with the New York Times, James said he will use his high profile platform on social media to combat voter suppression and be vocal about drawing attention to any attempts to restrict the franchise of racial minorities.

COVID-19 Cases Top 2M

Coronavirus numbers on the rise as many states enter Phase 2

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Washington, D.C. – (Thursday, June 11, 2020) – As more states move toward Phase 2 of their reopening, new reports show the number of coronavirus infections in the United States has now topped two-million.

Johns Hopkins University says that number is likely underestimated because of different testing and reporting standards.  Meantime, the U.S. death toll has pushed beyond 115-thousand with 847 new deaths yesterday.  Health experts say another 100k people will likely die from COVID-19 by September.

Remembering and Honoring The Lives Lost To Covid-19

There will be a special tribute this Sunday for those who died from the coronavirus.

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The issue has been pushed from the top of the headlines.  But make no mistake the coronavirus pandemic is still very much present and the impact on the African American community remains great.  Coming up this weekend a special tribute will be held to remember the thousands of lives lost to COVID-19, many of those persons right here in the DMV.  My guest is Dr. Reed Tuckson – Black Coalition Against COVID

A remembrance and tribute will be held Sunday, June 14thfrom 11am to 12noon to remember and honor those who have lost their lives due to COVID-19.  The tribute will air on WHUR and our sister station WHUT, along with WPFW Sunday, June 14, 2020, 11am –noon. For details, go here:

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Merriam-Webster Revising Definition of Racism

Merriam-Webster is expanding the definition of racism to include systematic

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(Wednesday, June 10, 2020) – It’s been years since Merriam-Webster has updated its definition of racism.  But after a recent African American college graduate pointed out there was a flaw to the current definition, publishers of Merriam-Webster decided to take another look.

22-year-old Kennedy Mitchum emailed Merriam-Webster last month to inform the dictionary publisher that its definition was inadequate and missing a key point.  The recent graduate of Drake University says she told them that the definition is not representative of what is actually happening  in the world.

The current definition of racism says  “a belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities that the racial difference produce an inherent superiority of a particular race.”

In an interview with CNN, Kennedy said “the way that racism occurs in real life is not just prejudice, it’s the systematic racism that is happening for a lot of Black Americans.”

Merriam-Webster says the revised entry for racism will be added to the dictionary soon.  It’s also revising the entries of other words that are related to racism or have racial connotations

Black Police Officers Speak Out As Criticism Mounts

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The debate over policing in America is at an all-time high following the deaths of multiple African Americans at the hands of police.
As protesters call for reforms and the criticism of police mount, what does it mean for African American police officers? Where is their allegiance?  Are they caught in the middle? Do they support the calls for reform or do they think things are going to far?
We talk about those issues and more with our guests and callers.
Guests:
Captain Sonia Pruitt – Chairperson of National Black Police Association
 
Clyde Boatwright  –  Vice President of the Maryland State Fraternal Order of Police 

Reporters On The Frontlines During Two Pandemics

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Two major issues are taking place in America at the same time:  Protests in the streets demanding changes to policing in America and the corona virus crisis.  Reporters are out there, on the frontlines, covering it all while trying to stay safe and keep a balanced perspective.

Link:

Our guests:

Cherris May – Freelance Photojournalist with the New York Times and President of Women Photojournalists of Washington & and an Adjunct Professor at Howard University

Michael Quander :  Reporter with WUSA-9 in Washington, DC

Troy Johnson Reporter/Anchor with  16WAPT in Jackson, Mississippi

Montgomery County to Ease More Restrictions

Montgomery County is preparing to enter Phase 2 of its reopening plan as early as next week.

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Rockville, Maryland (Wednesday, June 10, 2020) –  Still no exact date on when, but Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and County Health Officer Dr. Travis Gayles today announced which activities will be allowed when the County enters Phase 2.  While failing to be pinned down on an eact date and time, Elrich says Montgomery County Phase 2 will likely begin sometime next week, pending confirmation of the data benchmarks. The County plans to continue with an incremental reopening, based on public health data.

Phase 2 will allow additional businesses and activities to start and/or increase modified operations under specified guidelines. The guidelines include:

  • Retail – curbside and limited in-store; one patron per 200 sq. ft. of sales space;
  • Restaurants – outdoor/patio seating and limited indoor* dining with requirements; 50 percent capacity maximum indoors (*Not permitted until Governor Larry Hogan lifts restrictions.);
  • Childcare – Maryland State Department of Education continues expanding the number of essential personnel child care programs;
  • Construction – open with requirements;
  • Farms – open, “pick your own” open with requirements;
  • Gyms – fitness centers, and other indoor Physical Activities; open with requirements; one patron per 200 sq. ft. of fitness space (Not permitted until Governor Hogan lifts restrictions.);
  • Hospitals – physicians’ offices and other health care facilities, including hospitals, are available to care for your medical needs. Contact the local facility or office for more information;
  • Hotels – open with requirements;
  • Houses of Worship – virtual, drive-in, and limited indoor and outdoor services with requirements – one congregant/family unit per 200 sq. ft. of service space;
  • Indoor and Outdoor Gatherings – limited to a maximum of 50 or one person/family unit per 200 sq. ft., whichever is lower (Not permitted until Governor Hogan lifts restrictions.);
  • Manufacturing – open with requirements;
  • Salons/Barbers/Personal Services – all personal services allowed by appointment only; one patron per 200 sq. ft. of service delivery space;
  • Car Washes – open for internal and external cleaning with requirements;
  • Manufacturing – open with requirements;
  • Office Spaces and Multi-tenant Commercial Buildings – limited use for nonessential personnel with requirements; telework strongly encouraged where applicable;
  • Outdoor Community pools (public and private) – open to lap swimming with requirements;
  • Outdoor Day Camps – expanded opening with requirements;
  • Outdoor Youth Sports – expanded for low-contact sports with requirements;
  • Parks & Playgrounds – parks open for personal fitness and fitness classes with requirements; playgrounds open with requirements; only low-contact sports allowed; and
  • Ride On Bus Service – expanded schedule; expanded routes.

Certain outdoor recreation activities and facilities are already permitted: golf courses, archery, shooting ranges, marinas, campgrounds, horseback riding facilities and tennis courts.

The following businesses and services will remain closed in Phase 2:

  • Concerts and theaters;
  • Senior centers;
  • Libraries;
  • Recreation facilities; and
  • Shopping malls

Protective measures such as maintaining physical distancing, careful cleaning and disinfecting, and face coverings being worn by employees and customers, are just some of the measures being required of businesses that are in this initial phase of recovery.

“I want to emphasize that we will only move to this next phase when the data allows it,” said County Executive Elrich. “When it does happen, following the restrictions still in place is essential.  Like you, I am eager to resume as many normal activities as possible, but that cannot be the motivation for moving to the next phase – protecting the public health is what guides us. After careful discussions with our County Health Officer Dr. Gayles, we have identified further restrictions that can be lifted in Phase 2, whenever it happens. Again, I urge everyone to follow the guidelines so that we can keep moving forward and not have spikes in the number of cases. This next phase can be successful if all of us do our part and follow the guidelines.”

Activities that will be allowed in this second phase of reopening are based on metrics the County established with progress overall in decreasing daily numbers of new cases, increasing testing capacity, implementing a large-scale contact tracing effort with the State, decreasing hospitalizations and use of the emergency room by patients with COVID-19 related symptoms, and positive trends in the death rate and test positivity.  \

“We remain focused on being guided by the data and science as we look ahead to a future Phase 2 reopening,” said Dr. Gayles. “Clearly the virus is still here in our community so we must remain focused on maintaining our habits of physical distancing, wearing a face covering when out in public, and frequent, careful handwashing. We are also actively working to increase testing and contact tracing to keep the numbers moving in the right direction.”

Check Out The Free Online Film Screenings

WHUT-TV is presenting their “Movie Theatre Thursdays” all month long

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Grab a seat and get ready for some exceptional films right in the comfort of your own home. WHUT is presenting Movie Theatre Thursdays throughout the month of June. My guest is Krystal Brandon – Education and Outreach Manager @ WHUT

WHUT Free Online Film Preview Every Thursday in June. Just go to whutelmscreening.eventbrite.com.  Films like “East Lake Meadows, A Public Housing Story can be viewed.  The Movie Theatre Thursday is hosted by WHUT TV, Women Film and Video Washington DC and EmpowerDC.

 

Listen to this mornings segment here: