(Washington, D.C.) – D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has declared a Snow Emergency and Cold Weather Emergency in the city as the region prepares for its first snowstorm of 2025. The heavy white stuff is expected Sunday night and could impact the DMV through Tuesday. That means roads will be treacherous for drivers and everyone is urged to stay off the roadways.
Sharon Kershbaum – Director of the DC Department of Transportation spoke with WHUR News Director Renee Nash about the plan for clearing the city streets.
Sharon Kershbaum – DC DDOT talks about snow removal
While the snow emergency is in effect, motorists may not park on snow emergency routes and vehicles parked on these routes may be towed. Find a map of the snow emergency routes at snow.dc.gov. Drivers are asked to move vehicles off the routes as soon as possible. Beginning Sunday evening at 9:00 p.m., vehicles still parked along snow emergency routes will be relocated. To learn where a vehicle has been towed, call the Towed Vehicle Locator office at 202-541-6083, or go to dpw.dc.gov/page/booting-and-impoundment.
Sunday, January, 5, 2025 (Washington, D.C.) – Old Man Winter is expected to dump as much as 10 inches of snow on the DMV beginning Sunday night into Monday forcing many school systems to cancel classes Monday, January 6th. Below is a list of school closings.
Alexandria City Public Schools
Arlington County Schools
Arrowhead Elementary School student Bryson Edwards, 10, reads a book on Monday, April 23, 2007, in Upper Marlboro, Md. John Deasy, superintendent of schools in Prince George’s County, Md., acknowledges the atmosphere at Arrowhead is more intense than at schools that aren’t facing restructuring. (AP Photo/Kevin Wolf)
Calvert County Public Schools
Carroll County Public Schools closed
Charles County Public Schools
Culpeper County Public Schools
DC Public Schools
Fairfax County Public Schools
Falls Church City Public Schools
Fauquier County Public Schools
Federal Government Offices in the DMV closed with telework in effect
Frederick County Public Schools
Fredericksburg City Public Schools, VA
George Mason University closed
Howard County Public Schools
Howard University Campus closed with remote operations
As we close out 2024, many of you may be looking ahead to your wellness journey. For some, that specifically means working on a struggle with alcohol. The first month of the New Year is an opportunity to begin the quest to conquer that roadblock. Our experts for this Medical Monday will provide us with a great start.
Guest:
Dr. Rovenia Brock (Dr. Ro) – Author, Nutritionist, Health & Wellness Coach
Sherrell Duncan – Fitness Coach and Mental Health and Sobriety Advocate
(Wednesday, January 1, 2025) – Ten people are dead and more than two dozen injured after a driver rammed a pickup truck into a crowd of revelers on New Orleans’ French Quarter early New Year’s Day. The FBI is investigating the deadly rampage as an act of terrorism. The gunman was killed in a gunfight with police. Two officers were also injured in the attack.
Details are still pouring in. But investigators are said to be combing the French Quarter for possible explosives. The Associated Press is reporting that multiple suspected explosive devices were found in an ice chest in the pickup truck used in the attack along with an ISIS flag.
A coroner’s van is parked on the corner of Bourbon St. and Canal St, after a vehicle raced into a crowd of revelers early on New Year’s Day, in New Orleans on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Jack Brook)
The attack happened around 3:15 a.m. along Bourbon Street near Canal Street. New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell called the killings a terrorist attack while the police chief said the act was clearly intentional.
EDS NOTE: GRAPHIC CONTENT – Emergency personnel work the scene on Bourbon Street after a vehicle drove into a crowd on New Orleans’ Canal and Bourbon Street, Wednesday Jan. 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
Tens of thousands of college football fans are in the New Orleans for the Wednesday night Sugar Bowl playoff game between Georgia and Notre Dame at the nearby Superdome. That game has now been postponed until tomorrow.
President Biden issued a written statement saying in part “My heart goes out to the victims and their families who were simply trying to celebrate the holiday. There is no justification for violence of any kind and we will not tolerate any attack on any of our nation’s communities.”
President-elect Trump argues in an amicus brief that he should have the authority to decide whether TikTok can continue operating in the U.S. due to national security and First Amendment concerns.
FOX reports, “As the incoming Chief Executive, President Trump has a particularly powerful interest in and responsibility for those national-security and foreign-policy questions.” The brief, filed in support of neither party, comes ahead of a Supreme Court hearing on the law requiring TikTok to divest from foreign control.
“Today, President Donald J. Trump has filed an amicus brief in the U.S. Supreme Court asking the Court to extend the deadline that would cause TikTok’s imminent shutdown, and allow President Trump the opportunity to resolve the issue in a way that saves TikTok and preserves American national security once he resumes office as President of the United States on January 20, 2025,” Trump spokesman and incoming White House Communications Director Steven Cheung told Fox News Digital.
Trump’s team believes he should be able to address the issue when he assumes office on January 20, 2025. The case presents a complex balance between free speech rights and national security, with Trump asserting his unique position to address these issues as the incoming Chief Executive.
According to AP NEWS, former D.C. police lieutenant Shane Lamond was charged with, “one count of obstruction of justice and three counts of making false statements.” Warning Proud Boys leader Henry “Enrique” Tarrio about his pending arrest before the Jan. 6 Capitol attack and lying to investigators about it.
Lamond claims, “I don’t support the Proud Boys, and I’m not a Proud Boys sympathizer.” A 24-year veteran of the department leaked information to Tarrio about a warrant for his arrest related to burning a Black Lives Matter flag stolen from a historic African American church.
U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson made the ruling after a week-long bench trial.
According to BBC, a union representing over 11,000 Starbucks baristas in the US has announced a five-day strike starting on Friday due to disputes over pay and working conditions.
The walkouts will begin in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle, with plans to expand to hundreds of stores by Christmas Eve if an agreement is not reached. Starbucks has defended its average pay of over $18 an hour and “best-in-class benefits,” but Workers United highlights a pay disparity between baristas and senior executives.
“Taken together they are worth an average of $30 per hour for baristas who work at least 20 hours per week,” it said.
The strike coincides with a protest by the Teamsters union against Amazon, with delivery drivers at seven facilities walking off the job over labor contract negotiations.
Leanna Lenee (23), fiancée of Heisman Trophy recipient Travis Hunter(21), took time to address online criticism in a TikTok video, clarifying viral moments and defending their relationship.
She explained that her comments about Hunter not being her type were not about physical appearance but age and past behavior. Lenee also addressed a viral video of her appearing upset at an event, emphasizing that she supports Hunter and was misunderstood. Hunter later defended Lenee on a livestream, urging critics to focus on their own lives.
“I just think people are finding every single little thing and trying to make it something it’s not. Bird brain individuals are just accepting what they see online,” she said.
The couple went Instagram-official in March 2022 and got engaged in February.
According to Variety, Diddy has surprisingly withdrawn his bid for bail and will remain in prison until his trial date in May 2025. Despite having the financial means to continue pursuing bail, Diddy has decided to accept his current situation.
The rapper had been denied bail multiple times and his latest appeal was rejected due to concerns of witness tampering. Diddy’s decision to give up the fight for bail comes as a surprise, especially just before the Christmas holidays.
“Mr. Combs does not seek to appeal the district court’s denial of his renewed motion and hereby moves to voluntarily dismiss the appeal,” reads the motion. “Counsel has explained the effect of voluntary dismissal of the appeal.”
With serious charges including racketeering and sex trafficking, Diddy may have felt it was futile to continue fighting for his freedom.
Washington, D.C. (Saturday, December 14, 2024) – The 22nd Annual WHUR Children’s Toy Drive has once again demonstrated the power of community spirit, as WHUR listeners came together today at the Shops at Iverson in Hillcrest Heights, Md. to drop off a remarkable 1,070 new unwrapped toys and gifts for children in need across the DMV area. Thanks to this incredible generosity, countless holiday wishes will come true this season.
With toys ranging from bikes and scooters to dolls, games, basketballs, footballs, and books, individuals and organizations gave generously to ensure that local youth experience the joy of the holidays. WHUR’s Coka Lani issued the call to assist families in need and as always listeners, sponsors, and organizations responded in a big way. Contributions poured in from members of the community as well as from groups like the Top Flight Corvette Club, Unity Thunder, Elite Stylz, Communicare Healthcare Centers, the Brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and many more.
To help sweeten the joy of giving, owners of Pro Cake stopped by to offer coupons for free cookies to all those who dropped off a new toy at the WHUR Toy Drive. “Every year, I donate to the WHUR Toy Drive because I know firsthand the joy a simple gift can bring to a child in need. It’s not just about the toys; it’s about spreading hope and kindness during the holiday season,” said Fredette West. Her family dropped off bikes, toys, games, and more.
“We are overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity shown by our listeners and community partners,” said Sean Plater, General Manager at WHUR. “These donations reflect the caring nature of the DMV community and will significantly impact the lives of children and families this holiday season.”
Special thanks to our esteemed sponsors—Macy’s Downtown Metro Center, FedEx, Greenberg and Bederman, Copper Canyon Grill, and Miss Toya’s—whose invaluable support made this event possible.
The overwhelming response to the toy drive affirms the significant role community involvement plays in fostering joy and support for those in need. Together, we have made a tangible and meaningful difference in the lives of many.
Toys were distributed to the following organizations: Good Deeds Projects www.goodprojects.org, National Center for Children and Families www.nccf-cares.org, SE Tennis and Learning Center www.recreationwishlist.com, Prince George’s County Family Justice Center www.pgcfamilyjusticecenter.org, YMCA of Metropolitan Washington www.ymcadc.org, Mission of Love Charities www.molcinc.org
About WHUR WHUR is committed to serving the community through initiatives that enrich the lives of those in the DMV area and beyond. Our annual Children’s Toy Drive exemplifies our dedication to making a difference in the lives of young people.
The holiday season is upon us and there’s no better place in the DMV to enjoy all the sights, sounds, and the vibes of Christmas than the National Harbor. Joining me this morning to give us a rundown of all the great holiday attractions and happenings at National Harbor is Kirk Trutner – Director of Special Events for Gaylord National Resorts
National Harbor has quickly become one of the nation’s top holiday waterfront destinations. This year, the 350-acre mix-used property adds a Christmas Market and runs through December 28th with “A Charlie Brown Christmas!”. For more information go here: www.nationalharbor.com
Giving Santa a helping hand this holiday season. The WHUR Helpers are packed and ready for a weekend of good cheer to collect new unwrapped gifts for youth in need across the DMV. It’s our Annual Children’s Toy Drive and joining me with details on how can get into the holiday spirit of giving is Renee Nash – Director of News and Public Affairs
The 22nd Annual WHUR Children’s Toy Drive is Saturday, December 14th from 12pm to 4pm at the Shops at Iverson – 3737 Branch Avenue in Temple Hills, Maryland. We need new unwrapped toys and gifts for youth from ages 2 to 17 years-old. All donations will go to non-profit organizations who assist families with children in need.
Renowned poet Nikki Giovanni has passed away at the age of 81 after battling cancer.
Born Yolande Cornelia Giovanni Jr. in Knoxville, Tennessee, later nicknamed “Nikki”. She became known for her impactful poetry that explored themes of love, politics, loneliness, and race, Giovanni emerged as a prominent figure in the Black Arts Movement with her first collection, Black Feeling Black Talk, published in 1968.
Allison (Pat) Ragan, Giovanni’s cousin, made a statement on behalf of the family, “We will forever feel blessed to have shared a legacy and love with our dear cousin.”
Throughout her career, she made significant contributions to literature and education, teaching English at Virginia Tech for over three decades.
In 2009, she wrote a poem for then-incoming President Barack Obama, per the request of NPR:
“I’ll walk the streets
And knock on doors
Share with the folks:
Not my dreams but yours
I’ll talk with the people
I’ll listen and learn
I’ll make the butter
Then clean the churn”
Despite her passing, Giovanni’s final book of poetry, titled THE LAST BOOK, is set to be released next year.
With just two weeks to go before Christmas, there’s still time to get in on some deals and shop with businesses right in your own community. My guest is Ebony Walton – Director of Marketing and Communications for the Downtown Holiday Market
The Downtown Holiday Market runs thru December 23rd daily from 12pm to 8pm. It’s located at F Street between 7th and 9th Streets, NW. For more information go here: www.downtowndcholidaymarket.com
According to NBC, Daniel Penny was acquitted of criminally negligent homicide in the chokehold death of Jordan Neely, a homeless man with mental illness, on a New York City subway train.
The jury deadlocked on the more serious charge of manslaughter, leading to its dismissal. Penny could have faced up to four years in prison.
The case sparked debates on safety in the subway system, homelessness, and mental illness, with opinions divided along political and racial lines. Prosecutors argued that Penny’s actions were reckless and unjustified, while his defense claimed he acted to protect passengers.
Dafna Yoran, an assistant prosecutor with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, in her closing argument, said, “You obviously cannot kill someone because they are crazy and ranting and looking menacing.”
“No matter what it is that they are saying.” She also said that Penny “could have easily restrained” Neely “without choking him to death.”
The cold weather is upon us and that typically means higher gas bills. My guest this morning has information you need to know to help keep you warm and assist those who may need help managing their energy bills.My guest this morning is Michelle Musgrove – Vice President of the Customer Group @ Washington Gas
Washington Gas Cares programs include numerous ways to help families manage their energy bills, from financial energy assistance programs and payments arrangements to convenient budgeting. For more information go here: www.washingtonascares.com
According to CNN Hip-hop mogul Sean “Jay-Z” Carter has been named in lawsuit with Sean “Diddy” Combs for allegedly sexually assaulting a 13 year-old girl in 2000.
The lawsuit reports, the Doe’s attorneys reached out to Carter to request “a mediation to resolve this matter.”
“Upon present information and belief, Jay-Z responded to said letter by not only filing an utterly frivolous lawsuit, but by also orchestrating a conspiracy of harassment, bullying and intimidation against Plaintiff’s lawyers, their families, employees and former associates in an attempt to silence Plaintiff from naming Jay-Z herein. This effort was meant to scare Plaintiff and to discredit her counsel. That effort failed. Indeed, Plaintiff chose to file this amendment as a result of the egregious conduct perpetuated by Carter,” according to the lawsuit.
Carter responded to CNN in a statement says it’s a “blackmail attempt.” Carter also mentioned this lawyer, “who I have done a bit of research on, seems to have a pattern of these type of theatrics!”
“My wife and I will have to sit our children down, one of whom is at the age where her friends will surely see the press and ask questions about the nature of these claims, and explain the cruelty and greed of people. I mourn yet another loss of innocence. Children should not have to endure such at their young age,” he added.
Are you looking for a forever pet? Montgomery County Animal Services and Adoption Center is waiving adoption fees December 14th and 15th . www.montgomerycountymd.gov/animalservices
Museum Events
Take in thought provoking and culturally enriching events this December. Come out to the Banneker-Douglas-Tubman Museum for inspiring programs and exhibits. www.bdmuseum.maryland.gov/exhibitions
Elder Services
Learn about services and resources for older residents in Montgomery county. Attend a free event December 15th at Bannockburn Community Center in Bethesda. 240-777-3000
Girls Basketball
Enjoy some holiday hoops. The 2nd Annual Tuscarora IAABO Girls Varsity High School Holiday Tournament is December 27th and 28th at Frederick Community College. www.iaabo214.org
Holiday Project
Experience the true spirit of Christmas. The Holiday Project is in need of volunteers to visit residents, hospitals, and long-term care facilities this holiday season. www.holidayproject.net
Homebuying
Manna Homes is hosting a holiday edition of homebuying as part of its East of the River Homebuyer Club Meeting this month. www.mannahomes.org/hoc
College Scholarships
The Prince George’s County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America College Scholarships Application process is now underway. It’s open to graduating seniors in the county. www.pgcjackandjill.org
WHUR Community’s Choice
To get your non-profit on the air and web, email Renee Nash at rnash@whur.com at least three weeks before your event.
It’s been reported that police were called when witnesses recognized the suspect in Altoona, Pennsylvania.
The suspect was seen Monday at a McDonald’s on 407 East Plank Road at 9:15 a.m., while traveling on the Greyhound Bus.
There is no known motive, as this story continues to develop.
ORIGINAL POST: December 7, 2024 9:52 am
Who Was UnitedHealthcare CEO Shooting Suspect On The Phone With Moments Before Shooting?
Law enforcement experts are analyzing a mysterious phone call made by the suspect wanted for the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Manhattan.
Video footage shows the gunman holding a cell phone to his ear before the shooting, and a dropped phone was recovered by police. Investigators can use cell tower data to track the suspect’s movements and identify potential contacts.
The suspect remains at large, but authorities are confident in their pursuit of justice.
The New York Police Department is offering a $10,000 reward for any information that could lead to the shooter’s arrest.
According to CBS, A federal appeals court upheld a law that would ban TikTok in the U.S., citing national security concerns over its Chinese ties.
The court sided with the Justice Department, stating that the law’s provisions concerning TikTok and its related entities are constitutional. The decision sets the stage for a potential Supreme Court battle as the law’s deadline approaches.
Lawmakers and officials have long raised concerns about TikTok’s ties to China, citing data security and content manipulation risks. TikTok and ByteDance have challenged the law, arguing that a forced sale is not feasible and would suppress free speech.
President-elect Donald Trump takes office, vowed to save the app during his recent campaign, after trying to ban TikTok during his first term. He takes office January 20th, 2025.
This morning a perfect way to ring in the holiday season. The Bowie State University Concert Choir is hosting its 3rd Annual Community-wide Messiah concert. My guest is Professor Brandon Felder – Director, Bowie State University Concert Choir
TheBowie State University Concert Choir is hosting its 3rd Annual Community-wide Messiah Concert December 11th @ 7pm with special guest performance by grammy award winning jazz artist Chelsey Green. bit.ly/bsuconcert24
Comedian Andrew Schulz responded sarcastically to Kendrick Lamar’s lyrics about white comedians making jokes about Black women, accusing Kendrick of hypocrisy and suggesting that the rapper mentioned him for attention.
Hiphopdx highlights on Kendrick’s GNX album opener, “wacced out murals,” he raps: “Don’t let no white comedian talk about no Black woman, that’s law.”
Schulz criticized Kendrick’s grammar and pointed out his collaborations with South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone. Schulz joked about having sex with Kendrick if they faced off one-on-one, prompting a response from TDE president Terrence “Punch” Henderson on social media.
The Apollo is being awarded a Kennedy Center Honor and a Howard Theatre Honors. The “Toast to the Apollo” is the first in what will be the launch of the Honors Series created by the Board of the Howard Theatre. The honor recognizes the impact the Apollo has on Black culture, impacting music, dance and much more. My guest this morning is Reggie Van Lee – Chairman of the Board, Howard Theatre.
A Toast to the Apollo is Friday, December 6th at the Historic Howard Theatre with a star-studded lineup with Ms. Phylicia Rashad as host for the evening. For more information and to win tickets, go to: www.whur.com
According to COMPLEX, Pharrell Williams is auctioning off his red-strapped Richard Mille RM 65-01 watch, with a starting bid of $320,000 on his platform Joopiter.
The watch, featuring Williams’ signature on the caseback, is a highly complex piece of horology with over 600 components and a split-seconds chronograph. The winning bidder will also receive an invitation to a Richard Mille VIP event.
Proceeds from the sale will benefit Black Ambition, a non-profit supporting black and Hispanic entrepreneurs. Recently, Tom Brady and other celebrities have also auctioned off similar Richard Mille watches.
Dads grab your sneakers and your favorite girl. It’s time for the Ivy Vine Charities 2024 Father Daughter Dinner Dance. Joining me is Alean Miller – Member of Ivy Vine Charities
Ivy Vine Charities is hosting its 2024 Father Daughter Dinner Dance Friday, December 13th at the Laurel-Beltsville Senior Activity Center. For more information go here: www.ivyvinecharities.org
Tis the season for holiday parties with a purpose. The Association of Addiction Professionals is hosting a holiday social this weekend and they want colleagues to join in. My guest is Angele Moss-Baker – President of the Association for Addiction Professionals for the District of Columbia
The Association of Addiction Professionals of DC is hosting a Holiday Social December 10th from 5pm to 8pm at the Stuart Center -821 Varnum Street, NE DC. For more information go here: www.naadac.org
Heads up for parents with high school seniors. The application process is now underway for scholarships offered by the Prince George’s County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. I have the details so your youngster doesn’t miss out. Joining me this morning is Cassandra Lewis – President of the Prince George’s County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc.
The Prince George’s County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America College Scholarships Application process is now underway. It’s open to graduating seniors at Prince George’s County public schools. For more information go here: www.pgcjackandjill.org
Tomorrow is Turkey Day and right after you enjoy that holiday meal, it’s time to get a jump start on your holiday shopping. Black Friday is coming up and I have the perfect place for you to “shop til you drop” and keep your dollars in your community. My guest is Juanita Briton – Founder and CEO BZB International
34th Annual BZB Shop Til You Drop Holiday Gift and Art Show is Black Friday, November 29th and Saturday, November 30th and Saturday, December 7th, 14th, 21st and Christmas Monday, December 23rd & Christmas Eve December 24th @ Shiloh Baptist Church. For more information go here: www.bzbinternational.com
Washington, D.C. (Monday, November 25, 2024) – With just three days to go before Thanksgiving, WHUR hit the streets today to help those experiencing homelessness. Armed with bags of groceries and gift cards courtesy of Shabach Ministries, Inc. and the Steve Harvey Morning Show Turkey Give; WHUR sought to spread joy and support to those in need across the DMV.
The initiative was part of WHUR’s Season of Giving Campaign to reach out to our less fortunate neighbors in time for Thanksgiving. “As a radio station, one of our goals is to extend kindness and generosity as a way to uplift others. We are grateful for the opportunity to pay it forward to ensure as many people as possible can experience the joy and fellowship that Thanksgiving brings,” said WHUR General Manager Sean Plater.
The bags of groceries and gift cards were given out at McPherson Square in NW, D.C., United Planning Organization Shelter, New York Avenue Presbyterian Church, the Walmart in Clinton, and Silver Spring Men’s Shelter.
“It’s all about bringing the true spirit of Thanksgiving to life by coming together to support one another. We are able to make a difference in the community because of the support of our generous sponsors and listeners. Stay tuned to WHUR for further details and updates. Your support makes a profound difference, and we thank you for being part of our mission to help those in need,” added Plater.
From all of us at WHUR, the Steve Harvey Morning Show, and Shabach Ministries, Inc., we wish you a Thanksgiving filled with gratitude and love.
Megachurch founder and celebrity pastor Bishop T.D. Jakes suffered a health incident mid-sermon on Sunday, abruptly stopping church services at the Potter’s House of Dallas, TX.
Jakes was wrapping up his hour-long sermon, telling the congregation “I still love to preach. I ain’t tired of preaching. I miss you.”
He then quoted Psalm 19:14 before he began to convulse in his seat as attendees rushed to help.
An update from Jakes’ team confirmed that he experienced a ‘slight health incident’ but is currently stable and under medical care, thanking the community for their support and prayers.
Potter’s House has more than 30,000 members and was founded by Jakes in 1996.
Wicked has defied gravity and flown to the top of the box office in its opening weekend.
The film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande raked in $114 million to grab the top spot.
Gladiator II, the other major new release of the week,starring everyones favorite leading man, Denzel Washington finished second with $55.5 million. Red One ($13.3 million), Bonhoeffer. Pastor. Spy. Assassin ($5.1 million), and Venom: The Last Dance ($4 million) rounded out the top five.
