https://youtu.be/NeTh-KeLMMQ
Get it in your collection asap! Check out her Tiny Desk performance here
The weekend features some great events to check out here in the DMV
WEEKEND HAPS
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.
Ward 7 Councilmember Vincent Gray discusses food deserts, affordable housing, public safety and other relevant issues for DC
How do you know you may be dealing with a cheater?
In Willborn’s World! Thursday, February 20th we are talking . If you missed it, check out the Audio below to hear what The Stress Reliever has to say!
She is the embodiment of the gift that keeps on giving, and she doesn’t take a day off, even when that day marks the anniversary of her birth.
AMPM Entertainment Report for today, Thursday, February 20th was filled with the latest surrounding Rhianna, Yvonne Orji, Lovers and Friends Fest and Whitney Houston Tour. If you missed it, check out the Audio below to hear what Allison, Marc and Coka-Lani has to say!
Still want to know more? If you want all the details.. be sure to click on the links below to get the full story on each headline!
It’s Rihanna’s birthday, click for more details.
Yvonne Orji To Tape First HBO Comedy Special At Howard University, click for more details.
Lovers and Friends Fest Lineup, click for more details.
Whitney Houston hologram tour set to begin in Europe, click for more details.
Be sure to check out AMPM Entertainment Report with Coka-Lani every weekday in the 5pm hour on Allison & Marc in the Afternoons right here on WHUR so you can stay up to date and in the loop with what’s going!
“I’d like to talk about who we’re running against. A billionaire who calls women ‘fat broads’ and ‘horse-faced lesbians.’ And, no, I’m not talking about Donald Trump.
Allison’s Timeline for today, Thursday, February 20th was filled with the latest surrounding Slave Teeth, George Zimmerman, Elizabeth Warren and Whitney Houston. If you missed it, check out the Audio below to hear what Allison has to say!
Still want to know more? If you want all the details.. be sure to click on the links below to get the full story on each headline!
Store yanks souvenir Washington dentures over slavery line. Click for full story.
Elizabeth Warren – Here’s who we’re running against. Click for more details.
George Zimmerman sues two presidential candidates for their comments on Trayvon Martin’s death. Click for full story
Whitney Houston hologram tour set to begin in Europe: ‘Now is just the right time’. Click for full story.
“A fitness hall is kind of like a food hall, but for working out. The space will include a traditional gym with weights and machines, but they will include 250 other workout classes such as SoulCycle, Zumba, Yoga and even Virtual Reality workouts.”
A fitness hall is kind of like a food hall, but for working out. The space will include a traditional gym with weights and machines, but they will include 250 other workout classes such as SoulCycle, Zumba, Yoga and even Virtual Reality workouts, according to Washingtonian Mag.
I think I was told to not mention @carlpierre’s 1st trip to @blackbox_vr HQ. Something about how the world isn’t ready to have their mind blown from #VirtualReality #workouts at our Fitness Hall. But here he is saving the world from Goblins. pic.twitter.com/YHMqbywBWs
— BYNDfit (@BYNDfit) February 20, 2020
The BYNDfit founders have backgrounds in tech, real estate, and startups and looked to create a space fix the “broken” fitness industry.
Shhh! Sneak peak of @jordanciminelli working out the kinks at our secret test location for the immersive cycle studio. Don’t tell anyone I told you about it! pic.twitter.com/Qd6jOlS1UH
— BYNDfit (@BYNDfit) February 7, 2020
“They saw the industry as fragmented – almost every gym and studio lacked the options, versatility, and technology they enjoyed in so many other aspects of their daily lives,” reads the company’s about page.
They offer two memberships ranging from $149 to $199 per month. Members can enjoy amenities such as full spectrum infared saunas, access to personal trainers and a juice bar along with the wide range of workouts.
BYNDfit will be the first of its kind in DC. There was a soft launch in November 2019, but it will officially open on March 31, 2020.
The hall is located at 650 F St. NW Washington, DC, 20004 in Chinatown across from the Capital One Arena.
A diminished Victoria’s Secret sold as women look elsewhere
“Making the band 2020. I really want to do this,” he said in the Twitter video. “I know that I’m going to build the biggest band in the world.”
Sean “Diddy” Combs and MTV is bringing back “Making the Band”. Christian Combs, Quincy Brown, and Justin Combs will be the judges looking for the next musical star.
MTV released a video with Diddy and his three sons, AKA the “Combs Cartel,” announcing the show’s four-city casting call.
“You know we had to be involved in the return of making the band,” said Christian Combs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1dsVKmkphQ&feature=emb_title
“Making The Band is back. We back, we back, we back,” Diddy said in the video.
Choreographer and So You Think You Can Dance judge Laurieann Gibson, who was involved with the original Making The Band, is also set to join as a judge, according to Entertainment Weekly.
The original Making the Band produced groups Danity Kane and Day26.
Back in July, Diddy first announced the decision to bring back the talent search in July.
“Making the band 2020. I really want to do this,” he said in the Twitter video. “I know that I’m going to build the biggest band in the world.”
I’ve made my decision… #MakingTheBand is coming back!!! This will be a global talent search, upload your auditions now using #MTBcasting!! pic.twitter.com/EjKCA3TWbl
— Diddy (@Diddy) July 15, 2019
If you’re interested in becoming the next big thing, here are the dates and cities below for the casting call:
February 28th and 29th – Atlanta
March 6th and 7th – Houston
March 13th and 14th – Charlotte
March 21st and 22nd – New York City
Judge Sentences Roger Stone To 40 Months
Executive produced, directed and written by Perry, the story follows a family whose world is turned upside down when their nephew, Young Dylan (Gilmer), an aspiring hip-hop star, moves in unannounced.
Tyler Perry is producing a new live-action series for Nickelodeon. This makes Perry’s first children’s show.
Starring rising rapper, Young Dylan (Dylan Gilmore), “the series follows a family whose world is turned upside down when their nephew, Young Dylan (Dylan Gilmer), an aspiring hip-hop star, moves in unannounced.” according to Business Wire.
Perry’s partnership with Nickelodeon is part of a deal with ViacomCBS. Under this same partnership, he is producing The Oval and Sistas.
Dylan Gilmer is an aspiring rap star from Annapolis, Maryland. He’s appeared and performed on The Ellen Show and NBA All-Star Weekend.
Perry invited Young Dylan to star in the show in an appearance on The Ellen Show back in October.
The new series premieres Saturdy, February 29 at 8:30 p.m. on Nickelodeon.
“So many brides grow up admiring their favorite Disney Princess characters and are inspired by their journeys, gowns and stories of the classic films.”
Allure Bridals, a bridal brand that is known for matching each bride with their “dream dress” and Disney have partnered to create the Disney Fairy Tale Weddings collection.
The dresses will have priness-inspired dresses in a variety of silhouettes inspired by the princesses and fabrics priced. The size range for all gowns is from 0 to 30, according to Allure Bridals.
The “Tiana Platinum” gown will be the first to be released from the collection, which “embodies both Tiana’s practicality and creativity in an elegant ballgown design covered in bayou-inspired shimmering vines and blossoms.”
“So many brides grow up admiring their favorite Disney Princess characters and are inspired by their journeys, gowns and stories of the classic films,” said Allure Brides CEO, Kelly Crum.
There are 16 dresses in total, and seven of them will be a part of a platinum collection that will be available exclusively at Kleinfled Bridal stores in New York and Toronto. This collection will range from $3,500 to $10,000.
The remaining nine will be available in select boutiques accross the country ranging from $1,200 to $2,500.
The entire collection will be unveiled during New York Bridal Fashion Week in April 2020 and will be available for purchase soon after.
“Well, that’s not going to happen, but no,” she has no plans to be VP for anyone.
Click here for the rest of the details.
Washington, D.C. (Thursday, February 29, 2020) – Lots of fireworks from Las Vegas last night as the democratic presidential candidates hit the stage for the 9th debate. It was, by most accounts, a literal slugfest with many of the candidates throwing jabs at newcomer former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
Six candidates took to the stage with healthcare taking up a major part of the discussion along with who would be the most fit candidate to take on President Donald Trump in the upcoming November general election. Many of the candidates piled on Bloomberg, taking jabs at his wealth and former stop and frisk policy. Senator Elizabeth Warren came out swinging first. “A billionaire who calls women fat broads and horse faced lesbians. And no I’m not talking about Donald Trump. I’m talking about Mayor Bloomberg,” said Warren. 
Bloomberg, who was once a republican, was forced to defend his personal wealth while Bernie Sanders tried to beat back questions on his health. As for Joe Biden, he criticized Bloomberg on his stop and frisk policy. “Bloomberg ended up throwing 5 million black men up against the wall,” said Biden.
Pete Buttigieg went after Bloomberg and Sanders warning that one threatened to burn down the Democratic Party and the other was trying to buy it.
The race for the White House is expected to intensify in the coming weeks. Voters in Nevada head to the polls Saturday and South Carolina follows on February 29th.
Detectives arrested Freeman in what appears to be a drug-related shooting. Brown is the son of a Prince George’s County detective. Two of his brothers are also in law enforcement. Brown was a student at North Point High School. Freeman was a senior at Thomas Stone. Both schools are in Waldorf. Counselors are at both schools today to help students and staff cope with the tragedy.
In a press release posted on Twitter, Charles County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with additional information on the case to call Detective R. Johnson at 301-609-6453. Tipsters who want to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com.
Mama’s Safe Haven is hosting it’s 7th Annual Black History Talent Show
Momma’s Safe Haven is showcasing some of DC’s Most talented Youth with its 7th Annual Black History Talent Show, February 29th from 12pm to 3pm at Charles Hart Middle School. My guest this morning is Beverly Smith-Brown – Founder and Executive Director of Momma’s Safe Haven. More information 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:
A child advocate and rape crisis expert discuss sex assault allegations against child and how the issue should be addressed.
Will the President pardon Roger Stone or not? Abuse of power in plain sight…
The White House Report with April Ryan! for Wednesday, February 19th we are talking Presidential pardons, Abuse of power and Roger Stone. If you missed it, check out the Audio below to hear what April has to say!
Still want to know more?
The White House Report with April Ryan, click for more details.
‘Breakfast At Tiffany’s’ just got a whole new meaning with the recent issue of Harper’s Bazaar.
AMPM Entertainment Report for today, Wednesday, February 19th was filled with the latest surrounding Mayor Bowser, Tiffany Haddish, Price Is Right and Pop Smoke. If you missed it, check out the Audio below to hear what Allison, Marc and Coka-Lani has to say!
Still want to know more? If you want all the details.. be sure to click on the links below to get the full story on each headline!
Tiffany Haddish Channels Audrey Hepburn in ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’. Click for more details.
‘Price Is Right’ shuts down after death of Drew Carey’s ex-fiancee. Click for more details
Rapper Pop Smoke has died at age 20. Click for more details
Mayor Bowser Signs for Go Go Music. Click for more details.
Mayor Bowser told a crowd of several hundred that Go-Go will be forever DC. “When I say Go-Go, you say it D.C,” said Bowser encouraging the crowd to chant with her.
Mayor Bowser told a crowd of several hundred that Go-Go will be forever DC. “When I say Go-Go, you say it D.C,” said Bowser encouraging the crowd to chant with her.
Several Go-Go legends were in attendance today for the signing, including Anwan Glover, Sugar Bear from EU and James Funk. 
On February 4, the Council voted unanimously to pass Ward 5 Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie’s bill to make Go-Go the District’s official music. Go-Go music originated in the District during the mid-1960s to late 1970s and is a fusion of many different musical forms, including funk, blues, soul, and salsa. The unique genre got its name from one of its founders, the late “Godfather of Go-Go” Chuck Brown.
Mayor Muriel Bowser will sign the Go Go music as the Official Music of DC.
Allison’s Timeline for today, Wednesday, February 19th was filled with the latest surrounding DC’s Famous Shrimp Boat, Prince George’s County Public Schools Job Fair and GoGo Music. If you missed it, check out the Audio below to hear what Allison has to say!
Still want to know more? If you want all the details.. be sure to click on the links below to get the full story on each headline!
DC’s Famous Shrimp Boat robbed.
Prince George’s County Public Schools is hosting a bus driver fair. Click for full story.
Bill Signing of Go Go Music. Click for full story.
Today 4pm Mayor Bowser signs the bill to make GOGO the official music of DC
Wiley Brown, one of the sons of the Godfather of GOGO and Chuck’s longtime Manager and friend Tom Goldfogle dropped by WHUR to talk about the importance of this day.
Wiley said “My father is here in spirit!” The signing is happening today 4pm at The Culture House located at 700 Water Street NW DC.
Popular social media platform gets new family safe mode.
Appellate Court Upholds Challenge To Ex-Felon Voting Law
“I am so grateful to Mayor Bowser for the opportunity to serve this institution that is so critical to the future of the cultural fabric of D.C. I look forward to getting down to the serious work of sparking creativity across the city,” said Hopkinson.
WASHINGTON – Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has appointed Natalie Hopkinson, Ph.D., to the DC Arts and Humanities Commission. Hopkinson is an assistant professor in the Howard University Department of Communication, Culture and Media Studies within the Cathy Hughes School of Communications.
“I am so grateful to Mayor Bowser for the opportunity to serve this institution that is so critical to the future of the cultural fabric of D.C. I look forward to getting down to the serious work of sparking creativity across the city,” said Hopkinson.
Hopkinson is an award-winning essayist and critical-cultural scholar. She is also a fellow at the Interactivity Foundation. Her work focuses on cultural identity, cities and diaspora, postcolonial history, gender, and media.
Hopkinson has authored three books on culture: Deconstructing Tyrone (co-authored with Natalie Y. Moore, Cleis Press, 2006); Go-Go Live (Duke University Press, 2012), which SPIN magazine named a top-10 book on music in 2012; and A Mouth is Always Muzzled: Six Dissidents, Five Continents and the Art of Resistance (2018, The New Press).
The Commission is an independent agency in the District of Columbia government that evaluates and initiates action on matters relating to the arts and humanities and encourages the development of programs that promote progress in the arts and humanities.
# # #
(Hopkinson pictured with D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser taken during the swearing-in ceremony in January 2020 – Photos courtesy of the Mayor’s Office)
Esther Scott appeared in at least “73 films and shows dating back to the ‘80s.” Some of her roles can be seen in “Encino Man,” “Beverly Hills, 90210,” “Full House,” “Martin,” and “The King of Queens.”
According to lovebscott.com, Scott suffered from a heart attack last Tuesday at her Santa Monica home and was found unconscious. “She was taken to a hospital where she remained for a few more days before eventually passing on Friday.”
Scott has an impressive resume as TMZ reports that she appeared in at least “73 films and shows dating back to the ‘80s.” Some of her roles can be seen in “Encino Man,” “Beverly Hills, 90210,” “Full House,” “Martin,” and “The King of Queens.”
Rest in peace to a legendary actress.
“Now is just the right time,” said Pat Houston, the singer’s sister-in-law, former manager and the executor of her estate, which is producing the show in collaboration with BASE Hologram. “In the spirit of Whitney, I know we’re doing all the right things right now.”
BURBANK, Calif. (AP) — Whitney Houston is about to appear on the concert stage again.
Eight years after her death, a holographic Houston will embark on a European tour that starts in England on Feb. 25 and runs through early April, with U.S. dates expected to follow.
“Now is just the right time,” said Pat Houston, the singer’s sister-in-law, former manager and the executor of her estate, which is producing the show in collaboration with BASE Hologram. “In the spirit of Whitney, I know we’re doing all the right things right now.”
Last week, a few dozen members of the media were given a dress-rehearsal preview in Burbank, California of most of “An Evening With Whitney: The Whitney Houston Hologram Tour,” which features a Houston projected onto a nearly invisible scrim on a stage with real dancers and a live backing band.
The concert set includes most of her biggest hits — “How Will I Know,” “Saving All My Love For You,” “I Will Always Love You,” along with some unexpected rarities, including a cover of Steve Winwood’s “Higher Love” that Houston first recorded three decades ago.
The show, which was first conceived five years ago, used a body double along with hundreds of hours of Houston performances and extensive CGI synthesizing.
“We created the hologram the same way they did Carrie Fisher in the ‘Star Wars’ movie ‘Rogue One,’” said Marty Tudor, CEO of BASE Hologram, which has previously revived performing versions of dead singers including Roy Orbison and Maria Callas. “It’s lengthy, it’s tedious, it’s a big, complicated process, but I think it worked.”
The ambitious performance is the modest brainchild of Whitney Houston herself, in at least one respect.
While on her final European tour, she had an “unplugged” section of her show, with a stripped down band and minimal fanfare. Houston liked that so much that shortly before her death at age 48 on the eve of the 2012 Grammy Awards, she expressed a desire to one day do an entire tour that way.
That concept became the model for the hologram concert.
“This is something that she wanted to do,” Pat Houston said after the media preview of the show. “I get very emotional watching this, because it is so, so close to what she wanted. The only thing missing is her, physically.”
On first appearance it’s clear how far holographic technology has come since previous iterations like Tupac’s holographic stint with Snoop Dogg at Coachella in 2012, with little of the flickering unreality audiences expect. Houston’s appearance in a gold gown looks magically realistic.
The limits are more apparent as the concert goes on, with the projection beam visible and Houston’s movements minimal, but those shortcomings are unlikely to bother the hardcore fans the tour is likely to draw.
Houston was never one for elaborate choreography or flashy moves anyway, and her small gestures — a quivering jaw on long-held notes, fluttering fingers for vocal flourishes, are all captured here.
“Whitney didn’t dance a lot, but when she did do her little moves, they were so perfectly Whitney,” said Fatima Robinson, who choreographed the show. “We did lots of studying her behavior in her videos. We would study her movements, and find the best moments in some of the live videos that just really embody her.”
The show still features plenty of dancing, via four backup dancers and two moving backup singers, all of whom occasionally interact with the hologram.
But Houston mostly preferred to let her voice do the work, and that part of the show works seamlessly, through a blend of studio takes and live performances. Close listeners may think they’re hearing the album version of a hit before it swerves into seemingly spontaneous moments that give it a live feeling.
The sound crew also found moments of between-song patter from Houston that were eternal enough to use for the new show.
“May God bless you and keep you, and let us pray for peace, and pray for the answer,” she says toward the end of the set.
The production may be most effective when it embraces its holographic possibilities — including having Houston swarmed in a shimmering shower of golden sparks during the climactic performance of “I Will Always Love You.”
Dressing the Houston hologram provided its own set of problems and possibilities.
“The first thing is, you can’t do black,” Timothy Snell, who oversaw the wardrobe for the show, said with a mock gasp. “And black and sparkles are your first go-to. But Whitney also loved color.”
Along with the gold gown, her outfits include a shimmering orange jumpsuit and a floor-length pink flowered coat.
“She liked to look sophisticated and timeless,” Snell said. “And those timeless looks really show up here.”
In total, D.C. issued more than a billion dollars in traffic and parking tickets over a three-year period, including fiscal years, 2017, 2018, and 2019. Approximately 2,869,810 traffic and parking citations were given out in DC during the budget year ending September 30th 2019. AAA says higher traffic ticket fines and lower speed limits in DC are mainly behind the increased numbers.
With the topmost speed camera fines increasing to $500, tougher penalties and higher traffic fines are the new normal under the city’s Vision Zero Initiative, which also spawned 11 new traffic infractions.
“The District generated 8.2 million traffic and parking tickets with a windfall value of one billion dollars over the past three budget years. The jury is still out on whether the higher ticket costs have anything to do with compliance,” said John B. Townsend II, AAA Mid-Atlantic’s Manager of Public and Government Affairs.
Nominations for the 2020 Father of the Year Award is open through March 31st.
Father’s Inc. wants to recognize dads who have changed the lives of their families for the better. They have a special Father of the Year Award event coming up and they are looking for nominations. The deadline to nominate a father is March 31st. My guest is Ernest Woodson – President of Fathers Incorporated
Father’s Inc. wants to salute dads living in DC who change the lives of his family and community for the better. The recipient of the award will be a father whose actions and achievements reflect unifying values and founding principles of fathers, brotherhood, manhood, and gentlemanship. The deadline to nominate a father is March 31st. wwww.fathersincorporated.net
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:
When is the right time and the best way to apologize?
Paul R. Williams had a life story that could have been dreamed up by a Hollywood screenwriter. Narrated by Emmy award winning actor Courtney B. Vance.
Facing a slew of sex-abuse lawsuits, BSA on Tuesday filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy
Allison’s Timeline for today, Tuesday, February 18th was filled with the latest surrounding Sidney Poitier, Boy Scouts and Roots. If you missed it, check out the Audio below to hear what Allison has to say!
Still want to know more? If you want all the details.. be sure to click on the links below to get the full story on each headline!
Sidney Poitier wins Best Actor Oscar for “Lilies of the Field”. Click for more details
Boy Scouts of America files for bankruptcy amid sexual abuse claims. Click for full story
Woman claims man kidnapped her, forced her to watch ‘Roots’ to ‘understand her racism’. Click for full story
Colin Kaepernick is writing a book breaking down his decision to kneel.
AMPM Entertainment Report for today, Tuesday, February 18th was filled with the latest surrounding The Weeknd, Adele, Gayle King Colin Kaepernick and LeBron James. If you missed it, check out the Audio below to hear what Allison, Marc and Coka-Lani has to say!
Still want to know more? If you want all the details.. be sure to click on the links below to get the full story on each headline!
The Weeknd announces new album titled After Hours. Click for full story
Adele plans to drop a new album in September, Variety reports. Click for full story
Gayle King Forgives Snoop Dogg for Kobe Bryant Rant. Click for full story
Colin Kaepernick Writing Memoir On National Anthem Protest. Click for full story
LeBron James’ I Promise Students Get Free College Tuition. Click for full story
New 2020 voter guide for black women, now available on line.
Black Women’s 2020 Voter Guide
Actress who played “Willona Woods” on “Good Times” dies at 74.
Iowa Man Accused Of Forcing Woman To Watch Mini-series on slavery
“I was sitting there leaning forward looking at the screen, and Gary goes, ‘OK, in about two minutes we’re going to see if this baby comes out.’ And sure enough it did,” Watts said in an interview at the studio. “We birthed a child on Feb. 10 at 6 a.m. Eastern Standard Time — a healthy child — and now we have to nurture it on to adulthood.”
He was sitting at the network’s Tallahassee studio with Gary Wordlaw, head of news and programming, watching a countdown clock as the network prepared to go live.
“I was sitting there leaning forward looking at the screen, and Gary goes, ‘OK, in about two minutes we’re going to see if this baby comes out.’ And sure enough it did,” Watts said in an interview at the studio. “We birthed a child on Feb. 10 at 6 a.m. Eastern Standard Time — a healthy child — and now we have to nurture it on to adulthood.”
The goal of the network is to reach black audiences with stories that give a broader perspective about their community than what other networks provide. That could include health issues unique to African Americans, discussions about historically black colleges and universities, how federal housing policy proposal could affect them or just simply making people aware of positive accomplishments African-Americans are achieving, Watt said.
“We are more than athletes and entertainers, and on the hard news side, we’re more than crime,” said Watts, who was a star quarterback at the University of Oklahoma in the 1980s and later played in the Canadian Football League. “For every 17-year-old African American male that you show me that’s being carted off in handcuffs on the 10 o’clock news … I can show you 50 17-year-old African American males that get up every morning trying to figure out, ‘How am I going to make my mother proud of me.’ That’s the story doesn’t get told enough.”
Other channels focused on African American audiences, such as BET and TVOne, have had news programming but haven’t concentrated solely on news.
Watts serves as chairman of the network, and it’s a project that he’s worked on for years. It received a lift when billionaire businessman and Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan provided the capital to get the channel on air. While Khan hasn’t disclosed how large a check he’s writing, he has said it’s enough support to keep it alive for years.
While there were some glitches that kept the network from being seen in all the markets it was hoping to reach during the first week launch, Watts said those problems will be resolved. The network has or is working on agreements with cable, satellite and television streaming companies and expects to soon be available in more than 100 million households.
Watts said he hopes that it isn’t just African-Americans that tune in.
“For anyone who wants to have a deeper relationship, a deeper understanding of the African-American community, I think we can be helpful,” Watts said.
The network has about 60 employees at its home in Florida’s capital city, and has bureaus around the country with plans to have a staff of about 100 nationally.
A recent look at the network showed stories ranging from an investigative piece on whether a major credit reporting company has an algorithm that gives blacks lower credit scores, to a look at privacy concerns on dating apps. And like other networks, it covers weather, sports and entertainment.
And Watts, a father of six, smiled when asked what the viewers saw when his new baby was born.
“Later in the day I went around to staff saying, ’This will be a trivia question: What’s the first story ever aired on the Black News Channel?”
There’s a two part answer. The first image was a photo of the National Museum of African American History & Culture in Washington, D.C. Watts, a Republican, teamed up with civil rights leader and Democratic Rep. John Lewis to pass legislation to create the museum.
The first story was about the Academy Awards the night before.
“The first thing out of the box was the picture of the African-American Museum, and 15 seconds later it was programming —the Oscars,” Watts said.
“Kenan and Hasan are two of the most engaged and engaging entertainers in America. I’m thrilled they’ll help us celebrate the role of a free press in our democracy,” said Jonathan Karl, Chief White House correspondent for ABC News and president of the White House Correspondents’ Association.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Comedians are making their return to the White House Correspondents’ Dinner after last year’s hiatus.
Kenan Thompson of “Saturday Night Live” and Hasan Minhaj of Netflix’s “Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj” will headline this year’s dinner, which takes place April 25.
Presidents and first ladies have traditionally attended the dinner, which serves as a celebration of the First Amendment as well as a fundraiser for college scholarships. Reporting awards are given out as well.
But President Donald Trump has skipped the dinner throughout his presidency and instead has elected to hold campaign rallies. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment about whether the president would attend this year.
Last year’s dinner featured Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Chernow after some dinner attendees and commentators complained that a sharply anti-Trump performance by comedian Michelle Wolf in 2018 was too pointed and unfairly targeted then-White House press secretary Sarah Sanders.
Thompson will serve as this year’s host. Minhaj will be the featured entertainer.
“Kenan and Hasan are two of the most engaged and engaging entertainers in America. I’m thrilled they’ll help us celebrate the role of a free press in our democracy,” said Jonathan Karl, Chief White House correspondent for ABC News and president of the White House Correspondents’ Association.
Thompson is currently in his 17th season on “Saturday Night Live” where he has set a record for the most celebrity impressions performed on the show. In 2018, he received an Emmy Award for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics and a nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.
Minhaj won a Peabody award in 2019 for his humorous examination of issues of domestic and global import. He was the entertainer at the 2017 correspondents’ dinner when he was a senior correspondent on “The Daily Show.”
Jennifer Hudson, wearing the Lakers’ deep purple, performed a pregame tribute to Bryant and sang “For All We Know.” Players on James’ team wore Gianna’s No. 2 on their jerseys and players on Antetokounmpo’s team wore Kobe’s No. 24 on theirs. And all players wore a patch with nine stars, one for each victim of the crash.
When the game was in Los Angeles two years ago, the NBA wanted to honor Kobe Bryant.
He declined. He couldn’t attend. His reason: his daughter Gianna Bryant had a game that morning.
“That said, to us, everything about his priorities,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said Sunday as he recalled that conversation with Bryant.
This All-Star weekend was Michael Jordan’s longtime home of Chicago, highlighted by a game where LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo served as captains — but it was, predictably and understandably, overshadowed by the mourning of Bryant.
Jennifer Hudson, wearing the Lakers’ deep purple, performed a pregame tribute to Bryant and sang “For All We Know.” Players on James’ team wore Gianna’s No. 2 on their jerseys and players on Antetokounmpo’s team wore Kobe’s No. 24 on theirs. And all players wore a patch with nine stars, one for each victim of the crash.
Common, in his pregame tribute to Chicago, also paid homage to Bryant, saying that “even in the darkest times, you’ll feel Kobe’s light.”
Everyone at the All-Star Game on Sunday got a 24-page tribute published by Sports Illustrated devoted to Bryant’s career. On the last page of text, just before the back cover, was a quote from Jordan: “I loved Kobe — he was like a little brother to me,” it began. Next to that quote was a photo, Bryant guarding Jordan in 1997, sticking his tongue out much in the same way that the Bulls’ guard often did.
And when the night was over, Kawhi Leonard was the first recipient of the Kobe Bryant MVP Award, given to the player voted as the biggest star of the All-Star Game — a trophy that Bryant hoisted four times.
It’s been three weeks now since Bryant, 13-year-old Gianna and seven others were killed in a helicopter crash in Southern California.
And the mourning period is still very active, very real, very necessary.
It’s a doubly somber time for the NBA, since the league is also coming to grips with the Jan. 1 death of Commissioner Emeritus David Stern — the person credited for taking a fledgling league and turning it into one of the planet’s most powerful sports brands, a multi-billion-dollar entity with a reach that touches nearly every outpost on earth. Stern was remembered as well at the Legends Brunch, and Silver drew a parallel between Bryant and his former boss.
“Just as a reminder: Who more embodies the spirit of All-Star than Kobe? … He always played hard. He didn’t care if it was an All-Star game,” Silver said. “And I think that’s what he and David had in common. They always competed. They believed in the power of sports. They believed in winning and they believed it was necessary to always give their all. And I think that’s why their losses have resonated with so many people around the world.”
Magic Johnson — like Bryant, a Los Angeles Lakers legend — had been hired two years ago to introduce Bryant at the Legends Brunch, the one that Bryant couldn’t attend because his daughter had a game that morning.
On Sunday, Johnson finally got his chance to speak at the event and pay tribute to Bryant. He told the story about how, before Bryant was drafted in 1996, Jerry West called him to say that he had seen the greatest draft workout that he could recall.
He was speaking of Bryant’s workout.
“And I said, ‘Really,’” said Johnson, who also paid tribute to Stern and Bryant at United Center before Sunday’s game by addressing fans. “He said, ’Yes, this guy named Kobe Bryant. Just was incredible in his workout and we’re going to do everything we can to draft him.”
The rest is history. Bryant came to the Lakers in a draft-night trade and played there for 20 years, winning five titles. Johnson said he was quickly impressed with Bryant’s work ethic, how he would work for two hours before practice and then go through another two-hour session with the team.
“That’s who Kobe Bryant was,” Johnson said. “He was always thinking about ‘How can I get better? How can I lead my team to victory?’ And when you think about him scoring 81 points in a game, only second to Wilt Chamberlain, and then five NBA championships, and then to score 60 points in his last game — that was probably the greatest thing I’ve ever seen from any athlete. He said, ‘Hey, I’m going to go out Mamba-style.’”
The brunch paid tribute this year to four individuals: USA Basketball managing director Jerry Colangelo received the Lifetime Achievement award, newly retired three-time NBA champion and Chicago native Dwyane Wade received the Community Ambassador award, retired WNBA player and another Chicago native Cappie Pondexter was the Hometown Hero recipient, and longtime Chicago Bulls star and six-time NBA champion Scottie Pippen was the Legend of the Year.
Pippen was at his Los Angeles home when he got the news on Jan. 26 about Bryant.
“It was a weird morning,” Pippen said. “And I’m still today regretting that I didn’t get a chance to tell Kobe Bryant how great he really was.”
Tonight, parents, children, child care educators, and community leaders will join forces to participate in the DC budget engagement forum. “Under 3 DC” is a coalition hoping to create what it calls a forward reaching early childhood campaign to urge Bowser to invest $4.5 million into making high-quality child care affordable for District families.
“Our babies and toddlers begin learning the moment they are born. These are some of the most formative years of their lives and access to early care and learning provided by skilled professionals is critical,” said Kimberly Perry, Executive Director of DC Action for Children and Co-Chair of Under 3 DC.
Recent studies show that quality early childhood education in DC is expensive and scare. The average cost of childcare in DC is $2,020 per month. That’s over $24,000 a year. Tonight’s budget forum begins at 6:30 at the Edgewood Recreation Center at 301 Franklin Street, NE.
Smoke from the blaze was spotted by firefighters driving by last night to fuel up at a nearby gas station. The firefighters responded and called for assistance. The identity of the victim has not yet been released. DC Fire and EMS tweeted out “Sadly the woman rescued by #DCsBravest in the 4800 block of 10th ST NE has succumbed to her injuries. The thoughts and prayers of our members are with her family and friends.”
Baldwin: A Living Celebration, celebrating the legacy of James Baldwin.
In collaboration with Howard University, Shakespeare Theatre Company is announcing a series of special events and programming entitled Amen, Baldwin!: A Living Celebration throughout February and March. My guests are Nia Aiyana Meeks & Lauryn Simone – Fine Arts Students at Howard University
The Shakespeare Theatre Company will feature the production of James Baldwin’s The Amen Corner (which received its world premiere at Howard in 1955). It runs through March 15th. More information 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:
If you had the opportunity to be President of the United States for a day, what would you do?
Her original dream was to be on a stage in a sparkling dress singing!
AMPM Entertainment Report for today, Monday, February 17th was filled with the latest surrounding Oprahs 2020 Vision Tour, Tracee Ellis Ross and Chaka Khan. If you missed it, check out the Audio below to hear what Allison, Marc and Coka-Lani has to say!
Still want to know more? If you want all the details.. be sure to click on the links below to get the full story on each headline!
#Oprahs2020VisionTour with @traceeellisross. Click for full story.
2020 NBA All-Star Game: Team LeBron beats Team Giannis 157-155 in a thrilling fourth-quarter finish. Click for full story.
Jennifer Hudson sang ‘For All We Know’ — made popular by Nat King Cole and Donny Hathaway — for Kobe, starting over when emotions overtook her. Click for full story.
Chaka Khan’s performance of the National Anthem was… interesting. Click for full story.
Be sure to check out AMPM Entertainment Report with Coka-Lani every weekday in the 5pm hour on Allison & Marc in the Afternoons right here on WHUR so you can stay up to date and in the loop with what’s going!
“Eleven years ago today, near the bottom of the worst recession in generations, I signed the Recovery Act…
Allison’s Timeline for today, Monday, February 17th was filled with the latest surrounding Presidents . Barack Obama Day, Woman Earn More and Chaka Khan. If you missed it, check out the Audio below to hear what Allison has to say!
Still want to know more? If you want all the details.. be sure to click on the links below to get the full story on each headline!
Honoring President Barack Obama On this Presidents Day. Click for full story.
The Atlantic: When women earn more money than men in a marriage… Click for full story.
Chaka Khan’s performance of the National Anthem was… interesting. Click for full story.
Hearing On Ways To Improve Maryland Schools
Four moderate Democrats joined Republican lawmakers Monday voting to reject the bill. Under the measure, certain semi-automatic weapons would be banned, including the popular AR-15 style rifles and the possession of magazines that hold more than 12-rounds. Some 8 million AR-style guns have been sold since they were introduced to the public nearly 40 years ago.
Lawmakers in both the House and Senate have been able to push through several other gun control measures, including universal background checks, limiting gun purchases to once a month, and allowing local communities to ban guns in public buildings.
14 Americans from the Diamond Princess cruise ship have tested positive for the virus. The State Department announced early today that the 14 had the virus. But were allowed to return to the U.S. because they were not yet showing any symptoms. 
All of the passengers must now go through 14 days of quarantine at the military bases. That’s on top of the other 14 days of isolation they were forced to undergo while on the cruise ship.
“I always knew that someday I would be an owner. But I never knew it would come like this,” said Williams. For Bennett, it was a no brainer. “Acia stepped forward to help me. So for me to be able to help her achieve her dream is really a blessing for me,” said Bennett.
Washington, D.C. (Wednesday, February 12, 2020) – Chet Bennett is known for his giving spirit of helping others and building an empire in the beauty industry that has elevated countless aspiring master hairstylists in the DMV. That’s why when he was in need of a kidney a year ago it’s not surprising one of his mentees, Acia Williams, would be the person to help save his life. Bennett has now been able to give Williams a new lease on life by gifting her one of his salons.
On Monday, Williams’ lifelong dream of owning a salon came true when she opened the doors of “A New Image By Acia” at 705 U Street, NW. “I always knew that someday I would be an owner. But I never knew it would come like this,” said Williams. For Bennett, it was a no brainer. “Acia stepped forward to help me. So for me to be able to help her achieve her dream is really a blessing for me,” said Bennett.
Bennett owns several salons in the District of Columbia and a beauty college. Williams worked her way up at Bennett’s “C Alan Signature Salon” on U Street eventually becoming manager. That same salon now bares her name. Both Bennett and Williams talked to WHUR Digital Reporter Candice Adkins about their journey and the value of paying it forward.
Williams and Bennett have been a big part of each other’s lives for nearly 20 years. But when she learned her friend and mentor needed a kidney, Williams admits she had to truly educate herself on the issue. She had no idea that kidney disease was such a prevalent issue for African Americans. “It was heartbreaking to see him so weak while he was going through dialysis,” said Williams. Bennett spent 14 months going through dialysis and was in desperate need of a new kidney. Williams was one of nearly a dozen people who stepped forward to help. It turns out she was a perfect match and last April 9th they had the transplant surgery .
Both Williams and Bennett are doing well and now they are on a mission to spread the word about the importance of organ donations. Dr. Acia Williams is also a Certified Non-Surgical Hair Loss Practitioner.
