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Solange Announces Split From Husband

Solange has not said much outside of her post. The former couple married in 2014 after being introduced years prior by Janelle Monae and Pete Wentz. She calls Ferguson “a phenomenal man who changed every existence of my life.”

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Contributed by Jordyn Fields

Solange and her husband, music video director Alan Ferguson have called it quits. The singer announced the news on Instagram.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4VZMkyJCJ9/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading

Solange has not said much outside of her post. The former couple married in 2014 after being introduced years prior by Janelle Monae and Pete Wentz. She calls Ferguson “a phenomenal man who changed every existence of my life.”

Two years ago, the singer was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease. She says, “the past 2 years have brought me more physical and spiritual transition and evolution than ever before.my body left me with no choice but to listen and be still ,within that stillness i begin my journey in confronting my worst enemy, fear.”

Ferguson was a part of Solange’s “A Seat at the Table” album and projects for her sister, Beyonce.

It was rumored that the pair split due to cheating allegations but Solange quickly shut the theory down.

Metro’s GM Is Calling For Higher Fares And Expanded Hours

Wiedefeld who says safety is always first to him admits this proposal focuses alot on what he has heard from riders regarding what they want and need from the transit agency.

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Metro’s General Manager Paul Wiedefeld has come up with a proposed budget for the transit agency that calls for fare hikes and some expanded hours.

The proposal is for the 2021 fiscal year that begins on July 1st. The system would return to closing at midnight Monday through Thursday. Friday and Saturday Metro would close at 2 a.m. Weekend riders would pay a flat fee of $2. There would also be another fee for riders needing to transfer between bus and rail. Ultimately, it would save customers $1.50.

The full plan will be submitted to the board this week. The goal is to win the hearts of past riders to want to return to the transit system.

Wiedefeld says he can pay for the changes by increasing fares by 10 cents for base rail fares. Bus fares would not be affected for customers who use Smartip cards. Those boarding a bus who have to pay will be charged a surcharge of 25 cents. He explains that people paying when they get on the bus is the number one reason why the buses run later.

The General Manager’s plan for the first time includes a $3 million contingency plan for special events. Wiedefeld’s plan will be presented to the board on Thursday. It will be a few weeks before public hearings will be set up.

His plan also calls for more bus service on the weekend. Nine low performing Metrobus routes will be shutdown. Those locations have not yet been released.

The fiscal budget proposed is 1.98 billion dollars. It’s a 2 percent increase over the current operational budget. There is some good news. Ridership is up almost 2 percent this year so far.

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and the City Council have requested the return to late night service hours. His current plan, however, does not restore the hours to those dating back to pre 2016 levels. Wiedefeld says it would jeopardize safety.

The systems fares are linked to distance travels. Base on his proposal 46 percent of peak riders will see fares go from $1 to $7.

Wiedefeld who says safety is always first to him admits this proposal focuses alot on what he has heard from riders regarding what they want and need from the transit agency.

Follow me on Instagram and Twitter @taylorthomas963

Helping Residence Start Their Own Business

“Can I Live” is holding it’s second Residence Owned Business Incubator starting tomorrow Nov. 5th.

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Details on how you can make some real money moves this morning on Taking It to the Streets.  It’s all about being your own boss. “CanI Live” is kicking off another Resident Owned Business Incubator to give you the tools to launch your own start up.  My guest is  Viviana De Jesus – Fund Development Manager for ROBI.

Can I Live The Resident Owned Business Incubator (ROBI) Classes start November 5th@ 101 Xenia Street, NW.  Come get the tools you need to launch your start up. 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:

Lonnie Bunch III Is The 14th Secretary Of The Smithsonian Institution

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Congratulations to Lonnie Bunch III on his installation as the 14th Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution.  On Friday November 1, 2019 he was presented the brass key that once opened the door of the Smithsonian Castle by the Chancellor of the Smithsonian Institution Chief Justice John G. Roberts representing the passing of knowledge and guardianship to the incoming Secretary.  Kenny Lattimore sang the National Anthem at the beginning of the installation ceremony and “Lift Every Voice and Sing” at its closing.  Lonnie Bunch was the founding director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture and is now the first African American to become Secretary of the Smithsonian.

 

 

THE JOURNEY: “The Honorable Isiah “Ike” Leggett – History is Present in All That We Do”

Dr. Wayne Frederick chats with a two-time Howard alum, and former professor of law, associate dean of The Howard University School of Law, and Montgomery County Executive, The Honorable Isiah “Ike” Leggett.

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ABOUT

He was born and raised in Louisiana during the height of Jim Crow law.  As an undergraduate at Southern University, he served as president of the student body, was actively engaged in the Civil Rights Movement, and met luminaries including Stokely Carmichael, H. Rap Brown, (Jamal Abdullah Al-Amin) both Howard alum, and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  For these reasons and more, becoming a two-time Howard graduate, and long-time faculty member were not only decisions he had to make, they were decisions he wanted to make in order to secure his future.  On this episode of “The Journey,” Dr. Wayne Frederick chats with a two-time Howard alum, and former professor of law, associate dean of The Howard University School of Law, and Montgomery County Executive, The Honorable Isiah “Ike” Leggett.

Air Date: November 3, 2019

 

Nationals Parade Shuts Down DC To Honor World Champs

Team officials, Nationals manager Dave Martinez and several players thanked the fans for their support through the best of times and staying with them even after a dismal 19-31 start to the season. “I created the circle of trust and I trusted these guys,” he said.

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The song “Baby Shark” blared over loudspeakers and a wave of red washed across this politically blue capital Saturday as Nationals fans rejoiced at a parade marking Washington’s first World Series victory since 1924.

“They say good things come to those who wait. Ninety-five years is a pretty long wait,” Nationals owner Ted Lerner, who is 94, told the cheering crowd. “But I’ll tell you, this is worth the wait.”

As buses carrying the players and team officials wended their way along the parade route, pitcher Max Scherzer at one point hoisted the World Series trophy to the cheers of the crowd.

At a rally just blocks from the Capitol, Scherzer said his teammates grinded their hearts out to “stay in the fight.” And then, after backup outfielder Gerardo Parra joined the team, he said, they started dancing and having fun. And they started hitting. “Never in this town have you seen a team compete with so much heart and so much fight,” he said.

And then, after he spoke, the Nats danced.

Team officials, Nationals manager Dave Martinez and several players thanked the fans for their support through the best of times and staying with them even after a dismal 19-31 start to the season. “I created the circle of trust and I trusted these guys,” he said.

The camaraderie among the players was a theme heard throughout the rally. “It took all 25 of us, every single day we were pulling for each other,” said pitcher Stephen Strasburg, the World Series MVP.

Nationals veteran slugger Howie Kendrick, 36, said that when he came to the Nationals in 2017, “I was thinking about retiring. This city taught me to love baseball again.”

Another veteran, first baseman Ryan Zimmerman, choked back tears as he recalled how he and the fans grew up together. He was 20 when he joined the Nationals during their first season, in 2005.

“I got guys that come up to me now that are 30 years old and said I’ve been their favorite player since they were a little kid, which is disturbing — basically like Juan,” he said.

It was a reference to Juan Soto, the left fielder who turned 21 during the series.

Washington had been thirsting for a World Series championship for nearly a century. The Nationals gave them that by winning in seven games over the Houston Astros; the clincher came on the road Wednesday night.

“I just wish they could have won in DC,” said Ronald Saunders of Washington, who came with a Little League team that was marching in the parade.

Nick Hashimoto of Dulles, Virginia, was among those who arrived at 5 a.m. to snag a front-row spot. He brought his own baby shark toy in honor of Parra’s walk-up song, which began as a parental tribute to the musical taste of his 2-year-old daughter and ended up as a rallying cry that united fans at Nationals Park and his teammates.

As “Baby Shark, doo doo doo doo doo doo” played on a crisp morning, early risers joined in with the trademark response — arms extended in a chomping motion. Chants of “Let’s go Nats!” resonated from the crowd hours before the rally.

Kimberly Ballou of Silver Spring, Maryland, said sports “is a unifier” that transcends race, gender and class and brings people together.

The crowd along the route was deeply packed. Cheers went up and fans waved red streamers, hand towels and signs that said “Fight Finished” as the players rode by on the open top of double-decker buses. General Manager Mike Rizzo, a cigar in his mouth, jumped off with the World Series trophy to show the fans lining the barricades and slap high-fives. Manager Martinez also got in on the fun.

“We know what this title means to DC, a true baseball town, from the Senators to the Grays and now the Nationals,” Mayor Muriel Bowser said. “By finishing the fight you have brought a tremendous amount of joy to our town and inspired a new generation of players and Nationals fans.”

Bowser added: “We are deeply proud of you and I think we should do it again next year. What do you think?” Then she started a chant of “Back to back! Back to back!”

Martinez said he liked to hear the mayor pushing for back-to-back championships and said: “I get it. I’m all in. But let me enjoy this one first. I don’t know if my heart can take any more of this right now. I need to just step back and enjoy this.”

Martinez, who had a heart procedure recently, said that during the Series, as things heated up, players and fans shouted at him to watch out for his heart. “All this right here has cured my heart,” he said.

And as the “Baby Shark” theme played once more, team owner Lerner told the team’s veterans, “From now on, you can call me ‘Grandpa Shark.’”

President Donald Trump has invited the Nationals to the White House on Monday, though relief pitcher Sean Doolittle doesn’t plan to attend.

“There’s a lot of things, policies that I disagree with, but at the end of the day, it has more to do with the divisive rhetoric and the enabling of conspiracy theories and widening the divide in this country,” Doolittle told The Washington Post.

Doolittle found support from Larry Stokes of Boyds, Maryland, citing Trump’s stand on immigrants. “They’re playing this game, but he doesn’t like immigrants,” Stokes said.

But to fan Bridget Chapin, who came from Burke, Virginia, with her husband, Mark, “Regardless of how you feel, you go to the Oval Office. I’m really weary of athletes making political statements. I watch sports to get away from all that.”

The president attended Game 5 in Washington and was greeted with loud boos when he was shown on the giant video screen during a tribute to veterans. The boos more than overwhelmed a scattering of cheers.

Delores Smith of Washington, a longtime baseball fan who said she had an uncle who pitched in the Negro Leagues, said the World Series was “a big win” for the city. “This is the first time in a long time that I’ve seen the whole city come together. There’s no fussing about Trump.”

Even with the threat of stars leaving for free agency — as outfielder Bryce Harper did after 2018 — fans hoped the Nationals’ success would continue.

“I don’t think it’s going to be our last time. This team, even when our last superstar left, this team rallied around, they played as a team,” Larry Stokes said.

Fans — and shortstop Trea Turner — urged the Nationals to re-sign third baseman Anthony Rendon, who was greeted with chants of MVP.

Rev. Dr. Willie Wilson Retires From Union Temple Baptist Church

After 46 years as head of the dynamic Union Temple Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. Willie Wilson passes the torch and retires.

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The Reverend Dr. Willie Wilson is a pastor, political leader, social justice influencer, and part of DC’s living history.  He has shepherded the faithful flock of worshipers at Union Temple Baptist Church for nearly 50 years.  This will be his last year as senior pastor there.  He’s retiring and passing the torch to his daughter, Reverend Dr. Anika Wilson-Brown.  We talk to Rev. Wilson about his leadership, perspective and legacy.

Union Temple Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Willie Wilson, Senior Pastor, Union Temple Baptist Church

Cummings’ Widow Ponders Run For His Seat

Rockeymoore Cummings Considering Run For 7th District

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(Baltimore, MD) — Elijah Cummings’ widow, Maya Rockeymoore Cummings, is considering running for his seventh congressional district seat. She made the announcement Thursday, saying she loves Baltimore city, the counties of the seventh district and the state of Maryland. Cummings says she’ll make an announcement very soon. She is currently the chairwoman of the Maryland Democratic Party. Elijah Cummings died last month at age 68. A special election to select a successor will be held in April.

Billy Porter, TLC, Ciara Set For Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade

The special will air at 9 a.m. EST on NBC’s “Today” show.

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NEW YORK (AP) — Emmy-winning “Pose” actor Billy Porter, Latin singer Ozuna and Grammy-winning performers Black Eyed Peas, TLC, Chicago and Kelly Rowland will be among the stars celebrating at Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.

Macy’s said Friday that Ciara, Idina Menzel, Lea Michele, Debbie Gibson, Miss America 2019 Nia Franklin and former NASA astronauts Kay Hire and Janet Kavandi also will participate in the 93rd annual parade on Nov. 28.

The special will air at 9 a.m. EST on NBC’s “Today” show.

Others part of the lineup include the cast and Muppets of “Sesame Street,” That Girl Lay Lay, Natasha Bedingfield, Chris Young, NCT 127, Chris Janson and Josh Dela Cruz.

Washington Heading To Buffalo For Sunday Matchup

Bills Play Host To ‘Skins Sunday

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(Orchard Park, NY) — The Buffalo Bills defend home field on Sunday as the Washington Redskins visit New Era Field. Buffalo sits at 5-and-2 and looks to bounce back from a home loss to Philadelphia in Week Eight. Frank Gore needs 100 yards to pass Barry Sanders for third on the all-time rushing list. The Redskins are 1-and-7 and are led by interim head coach Bill Callahan. Quarterback Case Keenum is questionable to play this week due to a concussion. Rookie Dwayne Haskins will likely start if Keenum can’t play. Washington has lost six of its last seven matchups to Buffalo dating back to 1993.

Kerry Washington Bringing New Legal Drama To ABC

“In Reasonable Doubt, you’ll judge Charlie Stewart for her questionable ethics and wild interpretations of the law… until you’re the one in trouble.”

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Contributed by Rebecca Johnson

Kerry Washington and Larry Wilmore are collaborating on a new legal drama, Reasonable Doubt. 

Washington’s Simpson Street Productions and Wilmore’s Wilmore Films are producing it with ABC Studios. The network ABC is developing it, as exclusively reported by Deadline.

The series will focus on Los Angeles cut-throat defense attorney, Charlie Stewart.In spite of her sometimes-dubious ethics and offbeat interpretation of the law, Charlie Stewart will fearlessly go head-to-head with the justice system to defend her clients,” reported Yahoo News.

The series will be co-produced by celebrity attorney Shawn Holley who was a member of the “Dream Team” that represented O. J. Simpson during his infamous trial.

Raamla Mohamed, who was a writer and producer for the ABC political drama Scandal, will be writing the series.

“The chance to work with a rising star like Raamla, a shining star like Kerry, and a legend like Shawn Holley was simply irresistible! I’m excited and honored,” Wilmore said via Deadline.

This past August, a photo was posted of the show’s writers and producers in from of ABC studios, which could have been commemorating the beginning of the show’s creation.

Washington is currently promoting her new Netflix film American Son, which is an adaptation of the broadway play.

Grammys To Honor Dr. Dre For Trailblazing Production Work

Dre founded Beats Electronics in 2008 with Jimmy Iovine and six years later they launched a streaming subscription service, Beats Music. Apple acquired both in a $3 billion deal in 2014.

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Dr. Dre, who has produced hits for Eminem, Tupac, Snoop Dogg and more, will be honored by the Recording Academy for his trailblazing production work.

The Recording Academy announced Friday that its Producers & Engineers Wing will pay tribute the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer on Jan. 22 at Village Studios in Los Angeles. The event takes place four days before the 2020 Grammys.

Dre has won six Grammys, three of which he took home as a producer or engineer. Born in Compton, he broke out on the music scene as a co-founding member of N.W.A., producing some of the group’s groundbreaking 1988 debut album, “Straight Outta Compton.”

He went on to produce his own hits and multiplatinum albums, along with crafting music for Eminem, Tupac, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent, Eve, Jay-Z, Nas, Busta Rhymes, Xzibit, the Game, Anderson .Paak and many more.

He also found success outside of rap, producing Top 10 pop hits for Gwen Stefani, Michel’le and Mary J. Blige, helping the R&B queen top the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the first time with “Family Affair.”

Dre founded Beats Electronics in 2008 with Jimmy Iovine and six years later they launched a streaming subscription service, Beats Music. Apple acquired both in a $3 billion deal in 2014.

Shonda Rhimes’ New Netflix Project’s About A Scamming NYC Socialite

“In Inventing Anna, a journalist with a lot to prove investigates the case of Anna Delvey, the Instagram-legendary German heiress who stole the hearts of New York’s social scene – and stole their money as well.”

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Contributed by Rebecca Johnson

Shonda Rhimes is bringing a new Netflix series on the scamming New York Socialite, Anna Delvey to Netflix. Inventing Anna, will star Orange is the New Black‘s Laverne Cox, Scandal’s Katie Lowes, My Girl’s Anna Chulmsky, and Perks of Being a Wallflower‘s Julia Garner.

The official description, according to Shadow and Act, “In Inventing Anna, a journalist with a lot to prove investigates the case of Anna Delvey, the Instagram-legendary German heiress who stole the hearts of New York’s social scene – and stole their money as well. But is Anna New York’s biggest con woman or is she simply the new portrait of the American dream? Anna and the reporter form a dark funny love-hate bond as Anna awaits trial and our reporter fights the clock to answer the biggest question in NYC: who is Anna Delvey?”

Cox plays Kacy Duke, Delvey’s personal trainer and life coach that ends up becoming a life coach to more than just Anna. Lowes plays Rachel, Delvey’s impressionable sidekick who lost her career behind Anna’s deceit. Chulmsky plays Vivian, the reporter that unravels Anna’s web, but unexpectedly becomes attached to Anna. Lastly, Garner will play Delvey.

In June 2018, Deadline reported Netflix and Rhimes’ Shondaland acquired the rights to the viral New York Magazine article, “How Anna Delvey Tricked New York’s Party People,” by Jessica Pressler.

The article unravels Anna Delvey’s, who’s real name is Anna Sorokin, story of how she created the persona of a German heiress that scams her way into the New York high society and was on her way to launching a club. After being accused of being a con artist by friends, Delvey ends up being charged with counts of grand larceny and theft of service. She is now being held on Riker’s Island without bond.

This is the first project under her new deal with Netflix after leaving ABC Studios, where she created Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal. This is also her first series after Scandal.

Trailer For ’21 Bridges’ Starring Chadwick Boseman Released

“21 Bridges stars Chadwick Boseman as an embattled NYPD detective on the hunt for a pair of men accused of murdering police officers, uncovering a massive and unexpected conspiracy.”

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Contributed by Rebecca Johnson

A full trailer for crime thriller 21 Bridges has been released.

“21 Bridges stars Chadwick Boseman as an embattled NYPD detective on the hunt for a pair of men accused of murdering police officers, uncovering a massive and unexpected conspiracy,” according to Shadow and Act. 

When  the search intensifies, Boseman’s character orders the police department to shut down all 21 bridges that lead in and out of the city.

The film also stars If Beale Street Could Talk and Race‘s Stephan James.

21 Bridges will be in theaters November 22. Check out the trailer here:

Congratulations are in order for Boseman who recently got engaged.

Couples & Singles: Join Angela Tonight for Pillow Talk Game Night!

Come meet our WHUR Family and have a fun night to remember! See you there! 😉

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I’m throwing a party for Couples & Singles TONIGHT at Sobe Restaurant & Lounge, 10621 Greenbelt Rd, Lanham, MD. Doors at 7pm / Games at 8pm! There’s no cover charge, but you can make a reservation at 240-334-2819! Delicious cocktails! Fun games! Great prizes! Live DJ! Live entertainment! Meet our celebrity judges! Come meet our WHUR Family and have a fun night to remember! See you there! 😉

Lil Kim And Trina Finally Reconcile

Lil Kim and Trina reconcile their friendship following the loss of Lil Kim’s father, showing a new spirit of unity amongst women in rap.

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Contributed by Nadira Jamerson 

Lil Kim and Trina finally reconciled their friendship after years of confusing conflict.

It is unknown why these two loved stars had beef to begin with, however, Lil Kim explained that the passing of her father helped bring them back together.

In an Instagram post, Lil Kim wrote, “On this very day I found out my Daddy passed away. I was so distraught and had to put on a brave face and keep working because I had a show that same night. When @trinarockstarr came into my dressing room we instantly bonded. She comforted me and it was exactly what I needed in that moment. It’s as if her Mom and my Dad brought us together and healed our friendship. We both have angels watching over us.”

After the prolonged and public feuding between Lil Kim and Nicki Minaj, many rap fans wondered why it was so difficult for women to get along in the rap game. The reconciliation of Trina and Lil Kim was met with positive feedback from fans who are happy to now witness the unifying of women in rap.

https://twitter.com/iamlouiselopez/status/1187810849022308352?s=20

Foul Play Suspected In Missing Stepdaughter Of A UFC Fighter

The state Department of Forensic Sciences which is assisting, in this case, has determined that she was hurt in some way and that she was the victim of foul play.

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Police in Auburn, Alabama feel missing 19-year-old Aniah Blanchard was the victim of foul play and that she was harmed.

The Southern Union college student who is the stepdaughter of Ultimate Fighting Championship heavyweight Walt Harris was last seen on October 23.

Police found her black badly damaged 2017 Honda CR-V two days after she was reported missing. It was found in an apartment complex in Montgomery, an hour or so from Auburn where she was last seen.

The state Department of Forensic Sciences which is assisting, in this case, has determined that she was hurt in some way and that she was the victim of foul play. Investigators say there was damage to the right fender and scrapes on the passenger side door.

Her stepfather Walter Harris is offering a $25,000.00 reward for information on her whereabouts. This morning UFC President Dana White has also announced an additional reward of $25,000.00 for information that leads to an arrest and conviction of those involved. The Governor of Alabama Kay Ivey has offered up a $5,000 reward in the case.

Follow me on Instagram and Twitter @taylorthomas963

Pillow Talk Game Night, Lakeside, and Verdi’s Otello at the Kennedy Center

After the Nationals World Series win, the DMV is buzzing this weekend.

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WEEKEND HAPS

 

  • The Washington Nationals World Series parade is set for Saturday beginning at 2pm at the corner of Constitution Ave. NW and 15th St.

 

  • Tonight join our own Angela Stribling for “Pillow Talk Game Night”at SoBe Restaurant & Lounge. Get your game on and meet your match.  Doors open at 7pm and the games begin at 8pm.

 

  • Bethesda Blues and Jazz Supper Club presents Betty Wright Doors open at 6pm.  Show time is 8pm.  On Sunday, Lakeside hits the stage, and the show is hosted by our very own Mr. “C”of the Time Tunnel.  Doors open at 5pm and the show starts at 7pm.

 

  • The production of “What to send up, when it goes Down”is playing at the Wolly Mammoth Theatre, through November 10th.

 

  • Based on Shakespeare’s, Othello, Verdi’s Otello is playing at the Kennedy Center, running through November 16th.

 

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:

What Scares You?

What are you afraid of? Do you have a phobia?

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What scares you?  Spiders, snakes, heights, the dark?  We all have things that frighten us… a little or a lot.  What are those things and why do they frighten us?  It’s a perfect conversation for this Halloween night.

Resources:

Dr. Nicole Cutts

Dr. Nicole Cutts, Cinical Psychologist, Author

House Approves Partisan Impeachment Inquiry Vote

Democrats push impeachment rules package through House

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WASHINGTON (AP) — Democrats pushed a package of ground rules for their impeachment inquiry of President Donald Trump through a sharply divided House Thursday, the chamber’s first formal vote in a fight that could stretch into the 2020 election year.
The tally was 232-196, with all Republicans who voted opposing the resolution. Just two Democratic defectors joined them: freshman Rep. Jeff Van Drew of New Jersey and 15-term veteran Rep. Collin Peterson of Minnesota, one of his party’s most conservative members. Both represent GOP-leaning districts.
Though the vote was technically over the rules that will govern the process, each side used it to accuse the other of having already decided whether Congress should wrench Trump from office.
It also underscored how — for now — lawmakers on each side are comfortable with their approaches to next year’s presidential and congressional elections. Democrats have been buoyed by polls showing growing public sentiment toward investigating and even removing Trump from office, while the same surveys have shown GOP voters standing fast by him.
Thursday’s measure defined the procedures lawmakers will follow as they transition from weeks of closed-door interviews with witnesses to public hearings and ultimately to possible votes on whether to recommend Trump’s impeachment.
The vote, which occurred on Halloween, drew a familiar Twitter retort from Trump: “The greatest Witch Hunt in American History!”


And White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham accused House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the Democrats of an “unhinged obsession with this illegitimate impeachment proceeding.”
During the debate, Democrats spoke of lawmakers’ duty to defend the Constitution, while Republicans cast the process as a skewed attempt to railroad a president whom Democrats have detested since before he took office.
“What is at stake in all this is nothing less than our democracy,” said Pelosi, D-Calif. Underscoring her point, she addressed the House with a poster of the American flag beside her and began her remarks by reading the opening lines of the preamble to the Constitution.
She also said the procedures would let lawmakers decide whether to impeach Trump “based on the truth. I don’t know why the Republicans are afraid of the truth.”
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., contended the Democrats are trying to remove Trump simply “because they are scared they cannot defeat him at the ballot box.”
No. 3 House GOP leader Steve Scalise, R-La., accused them of imposing “Soviet-style rules,” speaking in front of a bright red poster depicting St. Basil’s Cathedral on Red Square in Moscow.
Independent Rep. Justin Amash of Michigan, who left the Republican Party earlier this year after saying he was open to considering whether Trump should be impeached, also backed the measure.
The investigation is focused on Trump’s efforts to push Ukraine to investigate his Democratic political opponents by withholding military aid and an Oval Office meeting craved by the country’s new president.
Democrats said the procedures — which give them the ability to curb the president’s lawyers from calling witnesses — are similar to rules used during the impeachment proceedings of Presidents Richard Nixon and Bill Clinton. Republicans complained they were skewed against Trump.
It is likely to take weeks or more before the House decides whether to vote on actually impeaching Trump. If the House does vote for impeachment, the Senate would hold a trial to decide whether to remove the president from office.
Both parties’ leaders were rounding up votes as Thursday’s roll call approached, with each side eager to come as close to unanimity as possible.
Republicans said a solid GOP “no” vote would signal to the Senate that the Democratic push is a partisan crusade against a president they have never liked.
Democrats were also hoping to demonstrate solidarity from their most liberal elements to their most moderate members. They argued that GOP cohesion against the measure would show that Republicans are blindly defending Trump, whatever facts emerge.
Republicans said they’d use the vote to target freshman Democrats and those from districts Trump carried in 2016. They said they would contrast those Democrats’ support for the rules with campaign promises to focus on issues voters want to address, not on impeaching Trump.
Pelosi decided to have the vote following weeks of GOP claims that the inquiry was invalid because the chamber had not voted to formally commence the work.
The rules direct House committees “to continue their ongoing investigations” of Trump.
Democrats hope Thursday’s vote will undercut GOP assertions that the process has been invalid because the chamber hadn’t formally voted to start the proceedings. They note there is no constitutional provision or House rule requiring such a vote.
The rules lay out how the House Intelligence Committee — now leading the investigation by deposing diplomats and other officials behind closed doors — would transition to public hearings.
That panel would issue a report and release transcripts of the closed-door interviews it has been conducting.
The Judiciary Committee would then decide whether to recommend that the House impeach Trump.
Republicans could only issue subpoenas for witnesses to appear if the committees holding the hearings approve them — in effect giving Democrats veto power.
Attorneys for Trump could participate in the Judiciary Committee proceedings. But in a bid for leverage, panel Chairman Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., would be allowed to deny “specific requests” by Trump representatives if the White House continued refusing to provide documents or witnesses sought by Democratic investigators.

Issa Rae To Debut New Show On HBO Max

Actress, Issa Rae returns to television with a new show, Rap Sh*t, for the subscription service HBO Max.

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Contributed by Jordyn Fields

Comedian and actress Issa Rae is best known for her HBO hit show, Insecure. However it was recently announced that she would be producing a new show for HBO Max.

HBO says Rap Sh*t ( working title) will be a half hour comedy show. “[Rap Sh*t] follows a female rap group from outside of Miami trying to make it in the music industry. The series will be executive produced by Rae and Montrel McKay for Issa Rae Productions, as well as Jonathan Berry (Insecure) and Dave Becky (Master of None, Russian Dolls) for 3 Arts Entertainment, with Rae also writing the pilot.”

This will be Issa Rae’s third venture with HBO after Insecure and A Black Lady Sketch Show,  both of which she acts in and produces.

Fans will have to wait a while for Rap Sh*t (and sadly Insecure) as HBO Max is not set to launch until May 2020. However there will be a price to get more Issa Rae in your life, the new platform will have its own $14.99 fee.

While we wait for her return, Rae has been working on  her music label, “Raedio,” alongside Atlantic Records.

https://twitter.com/IssaRae/status/1185214376615137281

 

Niecy Nash Splitting From Husband Of Eight Years

“And as we go our separate ways now, we feel fortunate for the love we share – present tense.” 

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Contributed by Rebecca Johnson

Claws actress Niecy Nash announced Wednesday that she and her husband Jay Tucker have separated. She announced their split in a heartfelt Instagram post. 

“Our truth is that in this season of our lives, we are better friends than partners in marriage,” it reads.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

❤️

A post shared by Niecy Nash (@niecynash1) on Oct 30, 2019 at 1:30pm PDT

The couple married in May 2011 after dating for awhile. This was her second marriage after divorcing from her first husband, Don Nash in 2007. She and Nash have three children together.

It seems like the two still have a lot of love for each other.

The Instagram post reads, “And as we go our separate ways now, we feel fortunate for the love we share – present tense.”

In an interview in ESSENCE in August, Nash shared their love for each other.

“When they see us out in the public, we are exactly the way we are in a curated life on Instagram,” she said. “People think that we like each other, and that’s because we do.”

 

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Black Love •N• Black & White❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

A post shared by Niecy Nash (@niecynash1) on Feb 26, 2019 at 7:56am PST

 

John Witherspoon Was Paid Only $5,000 For ‘Friday’

“Kids, college kids fell into that Friday mold and they love Friday. Even today they love ‘Friday’. ” Witherspoon said.

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Contributed by Jordyn Fields

Actor John Witherspoon died suddenly Tuesday at 77. Over the years the actor had many roles but the ‘Friday’ franchise became one of his most notable roles.

 

“Kids, college kids fell into that Friday mold and they love Friday. Even today they love ‘Friday’. ” Witherspoon said.

The first installment cost two million dollars to make but ended up grossing $300 million. “We got paid five thousand dollars a piece to do that movie.” Witherspoon said.

The entire movie was shot in 20 days and Witherspoon says he didn’t know that it would turn into the success it became. “I had to pay my rent, I didn’t care what it was,” Witherspoon joked.

After the success of ‘Friday,’ the cast expanded the franchise with the making of ‘Next Friday’ and ‘Friday After Next’ and Witherspoon’s iconic role as Mr. Jones was featured in every film.

Today, the making of a new ‘Friday’ movie is in the works and have already began filming.

Kevin Hart Talks About Recovery After Car Accident

Comedian, Kevin Hart, opens up about his recovery after being in a car accident earlier this year.

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Contributed by Jordyn Fields

Actor and comedian Kevin Hart posted a video to his Instagram page last night giving fans a look into his life over the last few weeks, after being noticeably absent.

Back in September, Hart was involved in a car crash in Calåbasas after his friend was driving recklessly. He was a passenger in the car and was injured alongside two other people, none of which were wearing seat belts. The comedian sustained serious back injuries after the car was totaled.

Hart says in the video, “Basically, what you realize is that you’re not in control. No matter how much you think you’re in control, you’re not in control. At the end of the day, it can all be over, man.”

He went on to say “In this case, I honestly feel like God basically told me to sit down. You know, you’re moving too fast, you’re doing too much, sometimes you can’t see the things that you’re meant to see. But after my accident, I see things differently.”

Hart shows his journey through rehab but also allows fans to see him spending time with his family. He is currently married to Eniko Parrish and has three children, including a 16 month old.

“I’m thankful for simply still being here, on the road to being a bigger and better version of me,” Hart says. “I’m looking forward to an amazing 2020,” Hart concludes.

Hart was released from the hospital two weeks after the crash and doctors say it will take him about a year to fully recover.

Beyond Netflix: A Look At What You Get With New Streamers

Streaming choices are about to proliferate with the debut of Apple TV Plus on Friday and Disney Plus in two weeks. HBO Max and Peacock arrive next year. With discounts and other incentives, consumers can sample them all to figure out which ones to keep.

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Attention binge watchers: There’s life beyond Netflix, Hulu and Amazon.

Streaming choices are about to proliferate with the debut of Apple TV Plus on Friday and Disney Plus in two weeks. HBO Max and Peacock arrive next year. With discounts and other incentives, consumers can sample them all to figure out which ones to keep.

Here’s a look at the new streaming challengers and what you get with each:

APPLE TV PLUS

Apple’s entry into the streaming business.

Launch date: Friday

Price: $5 a month

Promotions: Seven-day free trial. A year free to buyers of a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, iPod Touch or Mac.

Original shows: A Jason Momoa series called “See” and “The Morning Show,” a comedy starring Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon and Steve Carrell. The service will launch with nine original shows and movies, with more expected each month.

Other shows and movies: None.

DISNEY PLUS

Disney’s entertainment service, featuring shows and movies from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars and National Geographic.

Launch date: Nov. 12

Price: $7 a month or $70 a year. Getting Disney Plus with ESPN Plus and Hulu, both owned by Disney, will cost $13 a month.

Promotions: Seven-day free trial. Free year with all Verizon Wireless unlimited plans and when customers switch to Verizon’s Fios Home Internet or 5G Home Internet.

Original shows: “The Mandalorian,” a live-action “Star Wars” series created by Jon Favreau. A prequel to the “Star Wars” movie “Rogue One.” A series about the Marvel character Loki. A rebooted “High School Musical” series. A documentary series focused on Disney.

Other shows and movies: Animated classics, including “Aladdin” and “The Jungle Book,” will be available at launch; others will be added as streaming deals with other services expire. Movies released in 2019 or later will go to Disney Plus rather than a rival streaming service first. Disney Plus will also house past seasons of “The Simpsons,” which Disney got through its purchase of Fox’s entertainment business.

PEACOCK

The service from Comcast’s NBCUniversal will carry 15,000 hours of video at launch.

Launch date: April 2020

Price: Undisclosed

Promotions: Free for many Comcast cable and internet customers.

Original shows: Reboots of “Battlestar Galactica” and “Saved by the Bell.” Comedy series “Rutherford Falls,” from Michael Schur, creator of “The Good Place” and “Parks and Recreation.”

Other shows and movies: “30 Rock,” ?Will & Grace,” and “Cheers,” though these won’t stream exclusively on Peacock. Peacock will get “Parks and Recreation” and “The Office” once existing deals with Netflix expire. “Bridesmaids,” ″E.T.” and other movies from Universal Pictures, Focus Features and DreamWorks Animation.

HBO MAX

A souped-up version of HBO from AT&T’s WarnerMedia, with some 10,000 hours of video at launch.

Launch date: May 2020

Price: $15 a month

Promotions: Free for about 10 million existing HBO subscribers — those who get HBO through AT&T distribution platforms such as U-Verse and DirecTV, and those who get the HBO Now streaming service directly from HBO, rather than a cable or online partner such as Amazon. Free for customers of AT&T’s higher-tier wireless and broadband offerings.

Original shows: A “Game of Thrones” prequel called “House of the Dragon.” ″Raised by Wolves,” a sci-fi series directed by Ridley Scott. “Strange Adventures,” a DC Super Hero anthology series.

Other shows and movies: HBO shows and movies, including theatrical releases that HBO licenses. Programs from the Warner Bros. studio, including “Friends,” ″The Big Bang Theory,” ″The Fresh Prince of Bel Air” and “Pretty Little Liars.” The animated comedy “South Park.” New CW shows “Batwoman” and “Riverdale” spinoff “Katy Keene” will also be available to stream after the season ends.

‘Housewives’ Star Kenya Moore Reconciling With Husband 

“She and Marc still talk and Kenya is contemplating reconciling with Marc. If I had to bet, I’d say they’ll be back together before the end of the month.”

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Contributed by Amber Cooper

In September, ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star, Kenya Moore, announced that she would be splitting from her husband, Marc Daly, after two years of marriage.  

In a statement to People, Moore says, “It is with profound sadness that I regret to inform my fans that I am divorcing my husband Marc Daly. Due to recent and ongoing circumstances, I can no longer continue in the marriage,” she said. “My sole concern and focus is and will always be my daughter, Brooklyn, my miracle baby. She was made in love and true commitment. I ask for our privacy to be respected moving forward.” 

However, things may be turning around for the pair. According to MTO News, a producer from the hit show on Bravo says that the marriage may not be over. The producer went on to reveal,”She and Marc still talk and Kenya is contemplating reconciling with Marc. If I had to bet, I’d say they’ll be back together before the end of the month.”

The couple tied the knot in June of 2017 and had their miracle child, Brooklyn Doris Daly, in November of 2018. As of now, Moore is still being seen wearing her wedding ring. 

Moore will be making her return to season 12 of ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta,’ that is set to premiere this Sunday. 

Twitter Announces It Will Not Accept Political Ads

The change will take effect on November 1st.

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In a surprise move, the CEO of Twitter Jack Dorsey said that they will no longer accept political ads. The change will take effect on November 1st.

The CEO of the social media outlet says unchecked misleading information in political ads is increasing in sophistication on an overwhelming scale.

Twitter rival Facebook does not plan to make any changes. In fact, CEO Mark Zuckerberg says the will not check for accuracy and that people should be able to see what politicians are saying for themselves. Zuckerberg says that he does not feel private companies have the right to censor politicians.

Follow me on Instagram and Twitter @taylorthomas963

DC Prepares For Nats Celebration Parade This Saturday

The public is encouraged to use public transportation to get around. If you want to keep up with the alerts text “NATS” to 888777. You can also go to sportscapital.dc.gov.

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The District is planning a major celebration this weekend for the Washington Nationals World Series win. The parade and rally will take place at 2 p.m. starting at 14th Street and Constitution Avenue in Northwest to 3rd and Pennsylvania Avenue in Northwest.

The public is encouraged to use public transportation to get around. If you want to keep up with the alerts text “NATS” to 888777. You can also go to sportscapital.dc.gov.

Follow me on Instagram and Twitter @taylorthomas963

Moms Support Circle, Early AM Workout, and More Free Events Inside Community’s Choice

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The Bead Society of Greater Washington

The Bead Society of Greater Washington is hosting its 70th Semi-Annual Fundraiser November 9th and 10th at the Activity Center in Gaithersburg. www.ermcollection.com

Fight Holiday Bulge

Fight the holiday bulge with WHUR and NBC4. Come out for a live broadcast early morning workout November 8th at the Peppermill Community Center in Landover.

Food2Feed

Let’s combat hunger together. WHUR’s 42 Annual Food2Feed Radiothon is Tuesday November 19th. But you can give right now online at whur.com. Just click the Food2Feed banner.

Take A Vet to the Movies

Join the Earnest E. Just Foundation and celebrate Veterans Day. November 10th Take A Vet to the Movies at the AFI Silver Theatre. www.ernestjustfoundation.org

Cancer

Help make every person diagnosed with cancer a long-term survivor. Learn how at stand up to cancer.org

Moms Circle

There’s help for young mothers needing guidance to navigate their new role. Come out for the Young Moms Parent Circle Meeting November 18th at Mount Sinai Baptist Church in Northwest. 202-667-1833.

Silver Spring Links

The Silver Spring Chapter of the Links invites you to its Emerald Elegance on the Runway Fashion Show and Luncheon November 24th at the North Bethesda Marriott and Conference Center. www.eventbrite.com

Langston Citizens Association

John M Langston Citizens Association invites you to a Panel and Performance and a Walking Tour of the Historic Halls Hill November 13th and November 16th.  www.highviewpark.com

 

 

 

A New Book Series for Youth of Color

Helping our youth explore and enjoy the love of reading books.

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We all know that reading is fundamental and my guest is helping our youth of color to explore the love of reading for enjoyment and she has a book release and signing coming up to help drive home the message.  My guest is Taunya Said – Author of Smart Alec Alex

New Children’s Book Release and Signing Saturday, November 2ndfrom 12pm to 2pm at the Laurel Boys and Girls Club.  The book is called Smart Alec Alex. 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.

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Washington Nationals Win 1st World Series Title

“What a story,” said Ryan Zimmerman, the only player who’s been a part of every Nationals team.

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HOUSTON (AP) — Stephen Strasburg paraded the MVP trophy for delirious fans packed behind the dugout. Max Scherzer tearfully hugged his teammates. Gerardo Parra did the Baby Shark chop, Sean Doolittle flapped snow angels next to the mound.

Almost out of contention in May, champs in October.

Howie Kendrick, Anthony Rendon and the Washington Nationals completed their amazing comeback journey — fittingly with one last late rally on the road.

In Game 7 of the World Series, no less.

Kendrick and Rendon homered in the seventh inning as the Nationals overcame a two-run deficit, rocking the Houston Astros 6-2 Wednesday night to win the first title in franchise history.

With all eyes on Scherzer and his remarkable recovery after a painkilling injection, these Nationals truly embraced their shot in the only Series when the road team won every game.

Even more against the odds: Juan Soto and Washington came from behind to win five elimination games this postseason, an unprecedented feat.

“What a story,” said Ryan Zimmerman, the only player who’s been a part of every Nationals team.

“The way this game went is the way our whole season went.”

Strasburg, new lefty Patrick Corbin and the Nats brought the first World Series championship to the nation’s capital since ol’ Walter Johnson delivered the crown for the Senators in 1924.

This franchise started out as the Montreal Expos in 1969 when the major leagues expanded beyond the border, putting a team with tricolor caps at jaunty Jarry Park. They moved to D.C. in 2005, ending Washington’s three-decade-plus wait for big league baseball after the Senators skipped town to become the Texas Rangers.

But the incredible path these wild-card Nationals with the curly W logo took, well, no one could have imagined.

Because in one topsy-turvy week, they put aside the pain of past playoff failures and upended heavily favored Houston. Quite an ending to a season that began back in February with the Nationals and Astros working out side-by-side at the spring training complex they share in Florida.

“Resilient, relentless bunch of guys,” manager Dave Martinez said. “They fought all year long.”

Having lost star slugger Bryce Harper in free agency and beset by bullpen woes, Washington plummeted to 19-31 in late May. It got so bad there was talk the Nationals might fire Martinez and trade away Scherzer.

Instead, they stuck with the mantra that sprung up on T-shirts — Stay In The Fight.

“That was our motto,” Scherzer said.

And months later they finished it, indeed.

Shut out on one hit by Zack Greinke going into the seventh, they still found a way to win.

“Guess what? We stayed in the fight. We won the fight!” Martinez shouted during the trophy celebration on the field.

“We were down and out. We were 19-31. We didn’t quit then, we weren’t going to quit now,” he said.

Strasburg earned the World Series MVP award with a pair of wins, including Game 6.

“It’s almost like we’ve done it so many times that we have to get punched in the face to kind of wake up,” he said.

As pitcher Aníbal Sánchez told Scherzer while hugging him in the middle of the diamond: “We won one. We finally won one.”

For the 43,326 revved-up fans at Minute Maid Park, it was a combination of shock and disappointment. So close to seeing José Altuve, Alex Bregman, George Springer and their Astros add to the title they won in Game 7 at Dodger Stadium two years ago, they watched this chance suddenly vanish.

“I’ve got a group of heartbroken men in there that did everything they could to try to bring a World Series championship to this city. And we fell one win shy,” Astros manager AJ Hinch said.

“Let’s be honest, there’s 28 other teams that would love to have our misery today,” he said. “And I just told our team, it’s hard to put into words and remember all the good that happened because right now we feel as bad as you can possibly feel,” he added.

President Donald Trump, greeted with chants of “Lock him up!” when he attended Game 5 in Washington, tweeted his congratulations to the Nationals from the White House.

“Game 7 was amazing!” Trump tweeted.

Washington kept pulling away after taking the lead, with the sensational Soto hitting an RBI single in the eighth and Adam Eaton adding a two-run single in the ninth off rookie José Urquidy.

Acquired from Arizona at the July trade deadline, Greinke was in complete control until Rendon — a Houston prep and college star — hit a solo homer with one out in the seventh that trimmed it to 2-1.

“Just gave us a little bit of hope,” Nationals leadoff man Trea Turner said.

When Soto followed with a one-out walk, Hinch decided to make a move. He’d had ace starter Gerrit Cole warming up earlier, but left him in the bullpen.

“I wasn’t going to pitch him unless we were going to win the World Series and have a lead,” Hinch said. “He was going to close the game in the ninth.”

Instead, Hinch signaled for reliable reliever Will Harris.

Kendrick connected on the second pitch, slicing a drive that hit the screen attached to the right field foul pole for a 3-2 lead. Just like that, everything had changed for the team in orange that led the majors with 107 regular-season wins, and the ballpark fell silent.

For Kendrick, another timely blow. At 36, playing on the oldest team in the majors, he was the NL Championship Series MVP against St. Louis after hitting the winning grand slam in the 10th inning of the deciding Game 5 in the Division Series at Dodger Stadium.

Then again, this was nothing new for the Nationals.

Washington rallied in the eighth to beat Milwaukee in the wild-card game and took the last two to beat Los Angeles in the NLDS, setting up a sweep of the Cardinals in the NLCS.

“This is now the most 2019 Nats thing to ever happen,” Doolittle said. “Another elimination game, another come-from-behind win.”

Far away, a sizable crowd poured into Nationals Park for a watch party. That was the stadium where Houston hammered the Nats for three games last weekend in taking a 3-2 edge, but their luck changed in Texas.

They won the last two against a team that posted the best home record in the majors (60-21) over the last two decades. Houston earned home-field advantage throughout the postseason, but it didn’t help in the end as the Astros went a stunning 0-4 in their own ballpark during the Series.

Martinez said Soto, who turned 21 last week, celebrated with his first beer. Meanwhile, the skipper, who had a heart procedure six weeks ago and can’t resume his six-cups-a-day coffee habit, headed back to the clubhouse for a special treat.

“I am,” he said, “going to smoke a cigar.”

With Greinke and Scherzer grunting on every pitch, Game 7 started as a classic duel.

Yuli Gurriel put the Astros ahead with a home run in the second and Carlos Correa added an RBI single off Scherzer that made it 2-0 in the fifth.

Scherzer was done after the fifth. Only a few days earlier, the three-time Cy Young Award winner had been unable to lift his right arm due to nerve irritation near his neck.

Corbin, the $140 million starter, threw three scoreless innings in relief.

Daniel Hudson, released by the Angels in March, closed for the Nationals, who made Houston pay for stranding so many runners all game. Hudson struck out Michael Brantley for the last out, then threw his glove to start the celebration.

The Astros breezed to the AL West title, edged Tampa Bay in a five-game ALDS and topped the Yankees in the ALCS. They had a front-office fiasco in October, which led to the firing of an executive for a boorish rant at female reporters during a clubhouse celebration.

“Yeah, the ultimate goal is to win the World Series, and we fell short to a great team. You can’t hang your head low about that,” Springer said. “You move on and start getting ready for spring training.”

GOING WILD

The Nationals became the first wild-card team to win the Series since Madison Bumgarner and the Giants in 2014. The last six champs have clinched on the road.

UP NEXT

The Astros and Nationals open exhibition play with a World Series rematch on Feb. 22 at Ballpark of the Palm Beaches. They met in their Grapefruit League opener this year and Scherzer gave up a home run to the first batter of the game.

___

YMCA Gets A Big Financial Boost

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Washington, D.C. (Oct. 30, 2019) – The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington got a huge financial shot in the arm Wednesday when longtime partner M&T Bank and Wilmington Trust donated $100,000 to the YMCA Anthony Bowen’s Future Leaders Academy.  The money was contributed as part of the bank and wealth management firm’s multiyear philanthropic commitment and represents the second $100,00 charitable donation in the past five years. 

The donation was presented during a ceremony Wednesday afternoon at the YMCA Anthony Bowen YMCA, located at 1325 W Street, NW.  Anthony Bowen Y was the first YMCA for African American founded in Washington, DC back in 1853.  The facility is now one of 17 associated Y branches in the Washington region, servicing youth and families across the District.

The forthcoming “M&T Bank & Wilmington Trust Future Leaders Academy” at YMCA Anthony Bowen is a STEM-based early learning program that prepares children ages 2 to 5 for a 21st century education and career. The Academy is designed to develop fine motor and language skills, and build each child’s self-esteem, confidence and sense of responsibility.

   Leaders from The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington and M&T Bank and Wilmington Trust, were on hand for the including: Angie Reese-Hawkins, President & CEO, YMCA; Janice Williams, Senior Vice President of Programs, YMCA;  Dave DiLuigi, Regional President, Greater Washington & Central VA, Wilmington Trust, and Cecilia Hodges, Regional President, Greater Washington and Central Virginia, M&T Bank.

  According to the most recent National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP) report, less than one-third of fourth graders in D.C. are proficient in mathematics. The event will provide an overview of the Academy curriculum and impact to the community.

 

National Black Homeownership Campaign

National homeownership campaign targets low numbers for black homeowners

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Black homeownership is the lowest it’s been in more than 50 years. This… even as White, Asian and Latino homeownership is on the rise.  Is there a crisis for black homeownership in America?What can be done to turn it around?  The National Fair Housing Alliance is behind a new, national campaign to improve the numbers of black home ownership.

Resources:

Making Homeownership Possible Campaign

Ground Rent in Baltimore News Investigation

Guests:

Lisa Rice, President & CEO, The National Fair Housing Alliance

Ronnie DeVoe, Entertainer, President, DeVoe Real Estate

Late Metro Hours For World Series

Metro To Keep Four Stations Open Late

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(Washington, DC) — Metro is keeping four stations open late due to tonight’s World Series Game Seven. Metro announced this afternoon they were keeping the Navy Yard-Ballpark and Waterfront stations open until 12:30 a.m. L’Enfant Plaza and Gallery Place – Chinatown will also be open late. All four stations are near major Washington Nationals watch parties.

HU Students Join DC Fire and EMS for Lifesaving Mission

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Washington, D.C. – (Wednesday, October 30, 2019) – Howard University students will be fanning out across the District of Columbia  this weekend to help DC Fire and EMS to install dozens of fire and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors in the homes of at-risk families.  It is all part of an effort to raise awareness about fire and CO safety in the community and on campus.

Howard is the only HBCU to participate in the 3rd Annual Town/Gown Fire Safety Community Service Project. The partnership between Howard University, DC Fire and EMS, First Alert, Campus Firewatch and the Michael H. Minger Foundation will result in 100 families in the District’s Wards 1, 7, and 8 receiving the free alarms, donated by First Alert. 

It is estimated that on any given day in the United States a Fire Department responds to a five every 24 seconds and 3 out of every 5 home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no working smoke alarms.

“We are excited to be a part of the Town/Gown Project. This is a great opportunity to further educate our community and Howard University students about the importance of fire and CO safety, and equip many homes with needed alarms,” said Valarie G. Turner, Ph.D., director of Off-Campus Housing and Community Engagement at Howard University.  “Our goal is to assist and educate students, the elderly and families throughout the D.C. community to help reduce the risk of fatal fires. This helps make the community stronger and safer for everyone.”

Howard and DC Fire and EMS announced the kick-off of Bison Fire Safety today during a special broadcast with 96.3 WHUR and NBC4.  Students and Sparky the fire safety dog were on hand.  Take a look at the segment that aired this morning with Molette Green – Host of In the Community on NBC4.

 

 

‘Friday’ Actor-Comedian John Witherspoon Dies At 77

“Life won’t be as funny without him,” Ice Cube said in a Twitter post late Tuesday, adding that he was devastated by news of Witherspoon’s death.

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LOS ANGELES (AP) — Actor-comedian John Witherspoon, who memorably played Ice Cube’s father in the “Friday” films, has died. He was 77.

Witherspoon’s manager Alex Goodman confirmed late Tuesday that Witherspoon died in Los Angeles. No cause of death was released.

The actor had a prolific career, co-starring in three “Friday” films, appearing on “The Wayans Bros.” television series and voicing the grandfather in “The Boondocks” animated series. His film roles included “Vampire in Brooklyn” and “Boomerang,” and he was a frequent guest on “Late Show with David Letterman.”

For many his most recognizable role was “Pops,” Ice Cube’s father in the stoner comedy “Friday” and its two sequels, a crude but affectionate father trying to guide his son to be better.

“Life won’t be as funny without him,” Ice Cube said in a Twitter post late Tuesday, adding that he was devastated by news of Witherspoon’s death.

Regina King, who appeared as Witherspoon’s daughter in “Friday” and also voiced both of his grandsons in the animated series “The Boondocks” called him her “comedic inspiration” on Twitter.

Goodman referred to a family statement issued to the website Deadline that said the family was in shock over Witherspoon’s death.

The statement says Witherspoon, who was born on Jan. 27, 1942, is survived by his wife, Angela, and sons JD and Alexander.

JD Witherspoon tweeted that he was happy for all the great times he and his dad had together.

“We’d roast each other like homies more than Father & Son, and I really liked that. He was my best friend & my idol,” JD Witherspoon posted. “Love U Dad…I’ll miss u.”

New Wine Production Facility Finds A Home In VA

“With more than 300 wineries and vineyards, the wine industry in Virginia generates nearly $1.37 billion for our economy each year, provides new markets for our farmers, and offers unique agritourism opportunities for our visitors.”

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Contributed by Rebecca Johnson

A new sparkling wine production facility will be established in Nelson County, Virginia, which is about three hours away from Washington, D.C. Virginia Governor Ralph Northam announced on Monday that Virginia Sparkling Company will invest $600,000 in the facility, according to AP.

“With more than 300 wineries and vineyards, the wine industry in Virginia generates nearly $1.37 billion for our economy each year, provides new markets for our farmers, and offers unique agritourism opportunities for our visitors,” said the Northam in a statement in WTKR.

This facility will contribute to the county’s tourism economy, which is a large part of the county’s economy. The company plans to source all grapes from Virginia.

“Nelson County has long been a leader in Virginia’s craft beverage and tourism industries,” said Chairman of the Nelson County Board of Supervisors Larry Saunders in the press release. “The family behind the Virginia Sparkling Company is familiar to Nelson and an important part of the success we have had.”

The Daughter Of Disgraced MD Delegate Tawanna Gaines Is Charged With Wire Fraud

Edmonds who had not yet entered a plea is due back in court to answer to the charges on November 18th. Her mother will be sentenced on January 3rd. Gaines could get up to 8 years in prison and have to pay more than $22,000.00 in restitution.

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The daughter of former Maryland Delegate Tawanna Gaines has been arrested and charged with wire fraud.

The charges on Tuesday come just days after Gaines plea guilty to misusing her campaign funds for personal use. 43-year-old Anitra Edmond is daughter of Gaines and she served as her campaign treasurer. She is accused of funnelling money from her mother’s campaign into her personal account. It unclear how much she is accused of stealing but sources close say if she is convicted the government will request her to forfeit at least $35,188.

Edmonds who had not yet entered a plea is due back in court to answer to the charges on November 18th. Her mother will be sentenced on January 3rd. Gaines could get up to 8 years in prison and have to pay more than $22,000.00 in restitution.

Meantime the Prince George’s County Democratic Central Committee has nominated Attorney Nicole Williams to fill the seat of Gaines. This nomination requires the approval from Maryland Governor Larry Hogan.

Follow me on Instagram and Twitter @taylorthomas963

Lyft Offering FREE Rides To Job Interviews

Ride share company, Lyft, recently implemented the Job Access Program to help the unemployed receive free transportation to job interviews.

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Contributed by Nadira Jamerson 

Popular ride sharing app, Lyft, announced yesterday that they would be launching the Job Access Program to help provide transportation to interviews for the unemployed.

Lyft plans to implement the Job Access Program across 35 markets in the US and Canada. The goal of this program is to minimize transpiration fees that often prevent the unemployed from being able to obtain and keep consistent employment.

In a statement about the Job Access Program, Lyft explained “For the unemployed, reliable transportation to a job interview or to the first few weeks of work can mean the difference between successful, long-term employment and lost opportunities.

This initiative has generated a lot of positive support for Lyft via social media.

https://twitter.com/CallMeQuaa/status/1187816443645173760?s=20

Lyft is asking riders to support the Job Access Program by donating to other Lyft programs such as Round Up & Donate. You can find more information about how to support or use the Job Access Program on the Lyft website.

A Register Sex Offender Kidnaps Two Children From A DC School

The schools’ aftercare program at Rocketship Rise Academy is operated by Springboard Education. That is the same company DC Public Schools terminated this year after a sexual abuse incident at Capitol Hill Montessori School in Logan Circle this summer.

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It is shocking to most that hear the story. On October 11th a man followed a woman into Rocketship Rise Academy in Southeast. The woman was getting her child from the school’s aftercare area. The man reportedly walked up to a boy and started playing with him. He did so for about 15 minutes before convincing the boy and his brother to leave with him.

A resource officer feeling that something was not right followed the man. The man was later identified as 30-year-old Antonio Burnside of Southeast. When questioned Burnside claimed that he was the father of the boys and continued to walk out of the school.

The resource officer separated the children from Burnside and detained him for police. The children were not injured.

Court documents show Burnside was involved in another attempted child abduction in 2018. The chargers were later downgraded to sexual abuse of a minor in a plea deal.

The other big shocker was the fact that parents say they were not notified until some two weeks later. Officials at Rocketship say they are grateful that a front office staffer was able to prevent the abduction of two students from their aftercare program. As a result, they are reviewing and stepping up their security procedures to include all guests will have to show ID at all times if they wish to enter the building, even when school is not in session.

The schools’ aftercare program at Rocketship Rise Academy is operated by Springboard Education. That is the same company DC Public Schools terminated this year after a sexual abuse incident at Capitol Hill Montessori School in Logan Circle this summer.

The Deputy Mayor for Education has launched an investigation into the incident at Rocketship. A statement from the office reads, “The safety and well being of all students across DC public and public charter schools is our priority. With the incident at Rocketship, we are extremely relieved that no children where physically harmed. We are currently investigating the incident and continue to work with the school and the Public Charter School Board to review and ensure strong policies are in place for student safety, and to ensure consistent and timely communication with families and school communities.”

The suspect Burnside remains in jail until his next hearing. That date has not been set.

Follow me on Instagram and Twitter @taylorthomas963

Eddie Murphy Ready To Say No To Movies And Do Stand Up Only

Actor and comedian Eddie Murphy is giving up movies in pursuit of more family-time and his passion of only doing stand up comedy.

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Contributed by Nadira Jamerson 

In an interview for his feature in WSJ. Magazine‘s 2019 Entertainment Innovator of the Year, Eddie Murphy announced that he was thinking of giving up movies completely to only focus on continuing his stand up comedy career.

Murphy said, “Once I get back onstage, I kind of feel like that’s what I was born to do more than anything.When I get back on the stage, I can’t imagine wanting to do movies again.”

Murphy continued to explain that acting in movies has always been difficult for him because it has kept him from his large family of 10 children.

“What I like to do more than anything is just be home with my family, chilling,” Murphy said. “It’s really easy to feel like you’re working when you make a movie. You’ve got to get up at five, six in the morning. I started making movies when I was 20 years old, when I made 48 Hrs. That’s f—ing 38 years. You’ve been on a movie set, you see how this sh– is. It’s not a fun process.”

Murphy also expressed excitement for his upcoming Netflix special, which he believes will give him the opportunity to be back on the comedy stage where belongs. Being older and after raising 10 children, Murphy says that fans should not expect his routines to be the same as they were in the past. However, his goal remains to still be funny in as many ways as possible.

“Last time I did stand-up I was 27 years old. I look at some of my old stuff and cringe. Sometimes I’m like, I can’t believe I said that! I’m 58 now so I don’t think I’m gonna approach it the same way,” he said.

If you are a long-time Eddie Murphy fan, make sure to stay on the lookout for his new show!

Eating Healthy For The Holidays

The Fresh Food Factory Market is hosting a holiday party this Saturday

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Get your taste buds together for some holiday tasting with a soulful flavor. The Fresh Food Factory Market and United Nation of Individuals Fighting Impossibilities are hosting a holiday party entitled Ethnic Eats. My guest is Amanda Stephenson – United Nation of Individuals Fighting Impossibilities

This holiday season join the United Nation of Individuals Fighting Impossibilities and the Fresh Food Factor Market in their food equity movement Saturday, November 2ndfrom 2pm to 4pm at Martha’s Table for Ethnic and Fresh Food Factor Market Holiday Tasting entitled Ethnic Eats.  The event will showcase local caterers, crafters, bakers, and chefs as they share their latest holiday eats.

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.

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Employment For The Disabled

Employment progress and challenges for people with disabilities.

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It’s been 19 years since The Americans With Disabilities Act was passed back in 1990.  The civil rights law prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in all areas of public life… including employment.  October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month.  We examine how far we’ve come when it comes to employment for people with disabilities.

Resources:

National Disability Awareness Month – Job Fair Info

DC Department On Disability Services

 

Jeffrey Swilley, Executive Vice President, Employ Prince George’s
Andrew Reese, Director, DC Department on Disability Services

Robin Akinwale, WHUR Managing Editor

John Singleton’s Estate Settles ‘Baby Boy’ Lawsuit

The late director requested a formal audit for the money made from the film prior to his passing. The settlement was agreed on before his death in April. 

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Contributed by Rebecca Johnson

John Singleton’s estate settles an audit for his hit film Baby Boy for over half of a million dollars. Sony Pictures agreed to give $515,472 to Singleton’s film company, New Deal Productions.

According to TMZ, the late director requested a formal audit for the money made from the film prior to his passing. The settlement was agreed on before his death in April.

Baby Boy is a coming of age story about Jody, played by Tyrese, an immature, unemployed man that lives at home with his mom and has two children by two different women. One of whom being Yvette, played by Teraji P. Henson. Through riffs with his mother (Adrienne-Joi Johnson), her new boyfriend (Ving Rhames) and his own conflicts in the streets of California, he eventually grows up and handles his responsibilities.

When the film was released back in 2001, Sony and its subsidiary, TriStar Pictures were the primary distributors. The film had a budget of $16 million and raked in $29.3 million at the theaters.

 

‘Black Panther’ Star Chadwick Boseman Gets Engaged To Longtime Girlfriend

“Chadwick and Simone got engaged. It was a long time coming and everyone is really happy.”

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Contributed by Rebecca Johnson

Actor Chadwick Boseman is engaged to his longtime girlfriend Taylor Simone Ledward.

According to MTO News, the Black Panther star proposed to Ledward during a date in Malibu last weekend.

A friend of the couple told MTO News, “Chadwick and Simone got engaged. It was a long time coming and everyone is really happy.”

The couple plans to tie the knot early 2020. It’s not clear how long the couple has been together, since they both keep a low profile, but Ledward’s grandmother confirmed their relationship in April 2018 in In Touch Weekly. 

“They respect each other,” she said. “She’s very happy, and he is, too.”

The couple has also made some public appearances together including him acknowledging her in his acceptance speech at the 2019 NAACP Image Awards.

Popeyes Chicken Sandwich To Return In November

Popeyes announces the release of their signature sandwich, the Popeyes’ Chicken Sandwich, for this Sunday, Nov. 3.

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Contributed by Nadira Jamerson 

Popeyes’ fan-favorite chicken sandwich will be returning to stores on Sunday, November 3!

Popeyes announced the return of their signature dish through a simple twitter video earlier today.

The Popeyes’ chicken sandwich was all the craze when it first released in August. The sandwich brought about millions of tweets and sold out in all locations in only two weeks, leaving Popeyes’ eaters to wonder if this next release will be just as frenzied. Twitter has already started buzzing with anticipation. It’s safe to say that if you plan on going to Popeyes anytime soon you should prepare to wait in a line.

https://twitter.com/kimberlymcleroy/status/1188832041225392128?s=20

https://twitter.com/kameastcoast/status/1186718590814347265?s=20

Virginia Officials Issue Warning As Wildfire Season Approaches

Wildfire season has begun in Virginia. Residents are advised to take extra precautions to prevent tragedy.

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Contributed by Jordyn Fields

Virginia Governor Ralph Northam announced that wildfire season has begun in the state and will last through November 30.

Virginia’s dry weather conditions, high temperatures and low rainfall this year put it at an increased risk for wildfire. Fires are also at risk to spread faster and be more difficult to contain says the Virginia Department of Forestry. 

The Department of Forestry also states that most wildfires in Virginia are caused by human activity. Residents should take extra precautions to prevent the spread of fires, including:

  • Check the weather conditions before you start to burn
  • Have a water source at the ready
  • Have tools like a shovel or rake on hand
  • Keep the burn pile small
  • Clear the burn spot and surrounding areas down to mineral soil

Some places have initiated burn bans. Virginia residents should check with their local law enforcement before having an outdoor fire.

Singer Monica And Ex-Husband Finalize Divorce

Singer Monica Arnold finalized her divorce with ex-husband Shannon Brown, with both parties dividing up the assets previously shared by the two.

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Contributed by Nadira Jamerson 

Singer Monica and ex-husband Shannon Brown finalized their divorce last week, October 22.

The Jasmine BRAND obtained exclusive court documents, detailing the arrangements of the divorce. Shannon Brown received ownership of the marital home that the pair lived in with their children in Georgia. The document explain that Shannon Brown will be solely responsible for all payments attached to the house, including the mortgage and property taxes.

In exchange, Monica received ownership of the couple’s luxury vehicles, which include a 2018 Maybach Mercedes and 2016 Range Rover. Additionally, the document claims that Monica will retain custody of her three children, including the daughter she shares with Shannon.

Neither party will receive alimony, separate maintenance or spousal support of any kind from the other party.

Celebrating The Lives Lost To Violence

Phillips @ THEARC is hosting a powerful exhibit through November 7th.

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Celebrating the lives and legacies of those lost to violence.  A powerful exhibit is on display in SE honoring victims of violence.  It’s called the “Celebration of Life Community Memorial… I Remember.”  My guest is Monica Jones – Program Coordinator of Phillips @ THEARC

An open invite to DC residents to come and celebrate the lives and legacies of loved ones lost to acts of violence at the Exhibition titled:  “Celebration of Life Community Memorial:  I Remember.” The exhibition is located in the Living Room Gallery space of Phillips @ THEARC Monday – Friday from 9am to 9pm thru November 7that THEARC at 1801 Mississippi Avenue, SE.

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.

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Medical Monday: Menopause

Unraveling the mystery of menopause and how women can best address the issues that come with it.

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You’ve heard the terms before.  Hot flashes, private or personal summer, and the change.   All of them referring to what many, many women will eventually experience… menopause.  During our Medical Monday conversation… we’ll try to peel back the mysterious layers of menopause.

Resources:

Loving Me, Myself & Her: Through Perimenopause & Beyond

Dr. Joy’El Ballard, MD, OB-GYN, Author