We go beyond the headlines to hear directly from those affected, federal workers, air traffic controllers, and families struggling to make ends meet. We’ll also discuss the broader impact with our expert panel, exploring the toll this shutdown is taking on wallets, mental health, and public trust in leadership.
Our Guests:
Kamaal Barron – Air Traffic Control Specialist & Southern Regional President, National Black Coalition of Federal Aviation Employees
David Groves – President, Blacks In Government
Dr. Fredricka Brooks-Davis – Clinical Psychologist, Founder & Executive Director, The Restoration Center, Inc.
Michael Fauntroy – Associate Professor of Policy & Government, Founding Director, Race, Politics, and Policy Center, George Mason University
Watch as we discuss the human stories behind the headlines, the mental health implications, and what this shutdown means for the nation.
We are combining legacy and the Arts on Taking It to the Streets. The Frederick Douglass Memorial and Historical Association is hosting its Violins for Douglass Youth Program this month on the campus of Howard University. My guest is Dr. Donna Marable – Parliamentarian with The Frederick Douglass Memorial and Historical Association
The Frederick Douglass Memorial and Historical Association (FDMHA) is combining legacy and the arts at our Violins for Douglass Youth Program on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Howard University Blackburn Center from 3:30pm to 6:30pm. For more information go here: www.frederickdouglassmha.org
The candidates have had their say and now it’s time for voters in Virginia to have the last word. It’s Election Day 2025 in the Commonwealth and my guest this morning wants to remind voters to do their part. My guest this morning is Yolanda Roussell – President of the Stafford County Branch NAACP
The Stafford County Branch NAACP works tirelessly to combat falsehoods and misinformation by presenting researched facts and truthful data. For more information go here: www.staffordnaacp.org
A new effort in DC to address a shortage of healthcare workers while also providing training, college credits, and job opportunities for city youth. It’s part of a unique initiative called the DC Health Care Employment & Apprenticeship Link Program, or (DC HEAL).
It’s not just filling jobs, it’s changing lives, especially for inner-city youth who now have more pathways to purpose and possibility.
Tonight, we’ll hear from a student who’s already walking that path, and from D.C.’s Deputy Mayor for Education, who’s helping to make it all happen.
Let’s introduce our guests. Guest: Paul Kihn (“K-EYE-N”), DC’s Deputy Mayor for Education Guest: Nykirah Harper – Student at Cesar Chavez Public Charter Schools
Tomorrow will be day 35 of the federal government shutdown and the longest in history. There appears to be no end in sight for the shutdown or the financial strain on families. For some homeowners, the choices are heartbreaking — pay the mortgage, put food on the table, or cover childcare. We’re talking about foreclosure prevention and the growing number of people struggling to keep a roof over their heads. We have resources and options for homeowners about how to stay afloat during these uncertain times. We also have tips for renters about paying the landlord.
Guest:
Ronald Clarkson, Director of Communications and Outreach for Housing Counseling Services, Inc.
This morning an opportunity to get up close and personal with their future. My guest has exciting news about the Futures Fair taking place in Prince George’s County this week where youngsters will have a chance to meet with experts from a variety of professions. My guest is Pamela Smith – Director of Career and Technical Education with the Prince George’s County Public School System
Prince George’s County Public Schools is thrilled to host the Discovery Education Futures Fair at Gwynn Park High School on Wednesday, November 5th. The Futures Fair provides an exciting opportunity for students to get hands-on with professions they hope to pursue in STEM, the arts, skilled trades, and much more—making future career paths tangible today. For more information go here: www.pgcps.org
It’s Halloween, a time that typically is focused on kids trick-or-treating and everyone having a little scary fun. But for many, it’s a really frightening time for their families.
It’s hard to imagine choosing between paying the bills and putting food on the table, but that’s the reality for millions. Due to the ongoing government shutdown, SNAP benefits, a lifeline for 1 in 8 Americans, will be paused tomorrow.
Here in the DMV, families are worried, and food banks and nonprofits are racing to fill the gap.
Guest: LaMonika Jones – Director of DC and Maryland Hunger Solutions
Guest: Dr. Nicole Cooper – Senior Vice President of External Affairs for United Way of the National Capital Region
Guest: Brian Mulholland – Chair of the John Mulholland Family Foundation
A chance this morning to help struggling families while also decluttering your home. WHUR and Briar Patch Shredding and Recycling are teaming up again for another shredding, electronic recycling and food drive. Joining me this morning to talk about the call to action in support of Food2Feed 2025 is Sharifa Freeman – CEO of Briar Patch Shredding and Recycling
WHUR and Briar Patch Shredding and Recycling – Community Shred and Canned Food Drive in support of Food2Feed 2025 is Saturday, November 1st from 9am to 12pm. Bring up to 3 boxes of unwanted documents plus you can bring your unwanted electronics and we will recycle them for free. We ask that you bring some non-perishable food to help feed needy families and children for the holiday season. For more information go here: www.whur.com
It’s day 29 of the federal government shutdown — and for many families and small businesses across the D.C. region, the struggle is getting harder by the day. Nearly a month without paychecks means rent is late, savings are gone, and the ripple effect is spreading fast. Restaurants are empty, small shops are losing customers, and local economies that rely on federal workers are being pushed to the brink. We’re hearing from the D.C. Chamber of Commerce about how long our community can hold on — and what it will take to bounce back.”
Guest:
Chinyere Hubbard, President and CEO, DC Chamber of Commerce
Mariah Carey is putting a pause on the holiday excitement, for now. In a new social media post, she shared a montage of herself saying “Not yet” in various situations, reminding fans that it’s not Christmas season until she declares it.
While some followers admitted they’ve already started playing “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” Mariah’s caption made it clear that it’s still too early. Traditionally, she kicks off the festive season around November 1.
Fans looking to celebrate can still grab tickets for her “Christmastime in Las Vegas” show at Dolby Live at Park MGM, running November 28 through December 13.
Mariah is also adding to the holiday fun with pop-up holiday bars in select cities featuring themed cocktails, exclusive merchandise, and photo opportunities. Fans are ready to toast the season, just as soon as Mariah gives the green light.
We’re taking a closer look at a crisis in classrooms across the U.S., — the shortage of Black educators, and in particular, Black male teachers. Representation matters, and research shows that when black students have Black teachers, outcomes improve. So why are there so few? We’ll talk with leaders from The Center for Black Educator Development about what’s being done to change that — including their upcoming 2025 Black Men in Education conference.
Before there was Kamala harris, before there was BarackObama, there was Jesse Jackson. A new book by Abby Phillip, CNN anchor and host of “News Night” and “Table For Five”, explores the historic, presidential campaigns of the civil rights leader and politician.
The book is titled “A Dream Deferred: Jesse Jackson and the Fight for Black Political Power”.
We are talking this morning to the lovely ladies of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The Federal City Alumnae Chapter is hosting a timely panel discussion inspired by Vice President Kamala Harris’ book “107 Days.” My guest is Vanessa Grant – President Federal City Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority
The Federal City Alumnae Chapter Delta Sigma Theta Sorority president 107 Days: Where Do We Go From Here? This is a panel discussion inspired by Vice President Kamala Harris’ book “107 Days.” The free event is open to the public and will be Thursday, October 30th @ 6:30pm at the Howard University School of Education.
It can start with a whisper in the hallway… a cruel post online… or a shove when no one’s watching. Bullying doesn’t always make headlines — but for the children living through it, the impact can last a lifetime. As we mark Bullying Prevention Month, the focus turns not only to the kids who are targeted — but also to those who do the targeting. Experts say stopping bullying means more than punishment, it’s about changing behavior, building empathy, and creating spaces where every young person feels safe, seen,and supported. We’ll hear how the DC Office of Human Rights is putting that philosophy into action through its youth bullying prevention program.
Guest:
Ernest Shepard, Program Manager, Youth Bullying Prevention Program. DC Office of Human Rights
This morning a chance to do something fun and creative with the kids and improve their educational outcome too. My guest is hosting a free parent scrapbooking workshop – Coach Alisa Smedley
Free Parent Scrapbooking Workshop with Coach Smedley is Saturday, November 15th at 12pm via Zoom. Learn how to organize your child’s school work, plan a scrapbook day with the kids, and connect with a family mentoring network to build your dreams. You will create a beautiful scrapbook that captures memories. The virtual workshop will be held on Saturday, November 15th at 12 noon via Zoom. Link to Registration Form – https://forms.gle/pa9dDqDf3EUa1hpG9
The Frederick Douglas Memorial and Historical Association presents Violins for Douglas November 16th at the Howard University Blackburn West Ballroom. www.frederickdouglassmha.org
Scrapbooking Workshop
Learn the art of scrapbooking. A free workshop hosted by Coach Smedley is November 12th. https://bit.ly/42GTPah
100 Black Men
Save the date. The 100 Black Men of Prince George’s County’s Home for the Holidays Gala is December 19th at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt. www.100princegeorges.org
Black Women Thriving
Black Women Thriving East of the River provides services to women in DC’s Wards 7 and 8 to help them live healthier lives. www.thrivingeotr.org
Join the fight against domestic violence. Attend the 3rd Annual Dancing with the Stars Gala November 15th at Martin’s Crosswinds. It’s hosted by the Prince George’s County Family Justice Center Foundation. www.pgcfamilyjusticecenterfoundation.org
HBCU Pride
Show your HBCU pride. Join the Blake Bozeman Foundation for the HBCU in DC Tip Off Experience November 26th at CareFirst Arena. www.blakebozemanfoundation.org
WHUR PSA’s
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 that time of year again — the yard is buzzing, the music is pumping, and the Bison spirit is alive and unstoppable. This year marks Howard University’s 101st homecoming. “One of One”, a celebration of legacy, pride, and excellence that can only happen at The Mecca. We’re talking with Howard students and alumni about their favorite HU memories, the moments that shaped them, and their hopes for the next century of greatness at “The Real HU.” So, for the next 45 minutes we will hear from the first timers and the seasoned about their HU love and pride. Let’s get to our HU roll call!!!
This morning we are spotlighting The Disney Dreamers Academy a program that’s all about changing lives and making dreams come true. My guest this morning is Princeton Parker – Host and Ambassador of the Disney Dreamers Academy
The Disney Dreamers Academy is an annual mentorship program founded and hosted by Walt Disney World® Resort in 2008 and is designed to foster the dreams of students from underrepresented communities. The program broadens career awareness through a series of career-building workshops, networking sessions, mentorship connections and introductions to future professional opportunities at The Walt Disney Company and beyond.
The Disney Dreamers program is an important part of Disney’s commitment to supporting diverse communities, such as Black America, by encouraging the next generation to dream big and equipping them with tools to make those dreams a reality. Entering its 19th year, Disney Dreamers Academy has inspired more than 1,800 students from across the country by fueling their dreams and showing them a world of possibilities. In the years following, graduates have gone on to become doctors, nurses, engineers, pilots, journalists, scientists, attorney, Disney Cast, and more.
Disney Dreamers Academy consists of virtual and live educational instruction, networking events and live experiences along with an all-expense paid in person event for 100 selected students and a chaperone at Walt Disney World® Resort.
Time is running out for high school students with big dreams to take the next step toward their future, as the Oct. 31st application deadline for the Disney Dreamers Academy is fast approaching. Students can apply or be nominated at DisneyDreamersAcademy.com before it’s too late! Hurry- don’t miss your chance to Be100!
96.3 WHUR has been helping to provide holiday meals for families and individuals in need in the DMV for nearly half a century. This year, we are amplifying our efforts as the number of persons struggling grows. Give today to Food2Feed 2025 and help make this holiday season special for our neighbors and yours. 100% of your tax-deductible donation benefits the Capital Area Food Bank and Shabach Ministries, Inc. You can also drop off your non-perishable food and monetary donations on Thursday, November 13th from 6am to 6pm at our WHUR studios @ 529 Bryant Street, NW. Here’s a list of items we need:
We’re at the reporters’ roundtable, looking at some of the top stories of the week. As always, there’s a lot going on. We’ll discuss the NBA scandal, the latest with the Trump Administration, an assassination threat against House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, the federal government shut down and much more.
Guests:
Charles Robinson, Correspondent, Maryland Public Television
Brandon Tensley, National Politics Reporter, Capital B News
My guest this morning is in the holiday state of mind. Restoration Outreach Community Center is hosting an Angels Program to provide catered meals and gifts to children and families in need for the holiday season. He is here with a plea to the community. My guest is Josiah Burrough – Representative with Restoration Outreach Community Center.
Restoration Outreach Community Center, a non-profit located in Capital Heights, MD is hosting its Angels Project, a program to provide Christmas gifts and a catered meal to children and their families during the holiday season. They need 80 sponsors by November 30th to meet the number of children on the registry. For more information go here: www.theroccoutreach.com/events.
96.3 WHUR is helping you to get ready for the holidays. Grab all those old documents cluttering up your home and bring them to the WHUR Community Shred and Recycling Saturday, November 1st from 9am to 12noon at Briar Patch Shredding and Recycling – 4501 Forbes Blvd. Lanham, MD 20706.
We’ll shred up to 3 boxes of your unwanted documents. Plus, we’ll recycle your old electronics too, including phones, TVs, computers, and printers. But we need something from you. Donate non-perishable food and canned goods to help support Food2Feed 2025.
We’ll take care of your clutter if you help us feed those in need. The WHUR Community Shred and Recycling- Supporting Food2Feed 2025.
96.3 WHUR Community Shred and Recycling Day Supporting Food2Feed 2025
It’s a Wellness Wednesday and we’re taking a deep breath and focusing on something we often take for granted — our lungs. From COPD and asthma to lung cancer — these are conditions that affect millions of Americans every year, yet so many go undiagnosed until it’s too late. We’ll talk about the warning signs, the importance of early screening, and what you can do right now to protect and strengthen your lung health. Joining us are two leading medical professionals who’ll help us separate fact from fiction and give us the tools to breathe easier — literally and figuratively.
Guests:
Dr. Ashutosh Sachdeva – Associate Professor Of Medicine · Director, Interventional Pulmonology, University of Maryland Capital Region Health
Dr. Sunil Swami – Pulmonary Critical Care Specialist, University of Maryland Capital Region Health
Washington, D.C.’s own Tone P, President and CEO of GOGO Global, stopped by the Nina Brown and Joe Clair Show to talk about the newest addition to the city’s cultural calendar. National Mambo Sauce Day, celebrated every year on October 16.
National Mambo Sauce Day was created to honor the sweet, tangy, and spicy sauce that’s become a staple in D.C. kitchens, carryout, and hearts. The day celebrates more than just a condiment, it represents the flavor, rhythm, and pride of the District.
Tone P shared how this special day brings the community together through food, music, and culture. From parades and live performances to local restaurants serving their best Mambo-inspired dishes, the celebration is all about shining a spotlight on D.C.’s homegrown flavor and introducing it to the world.
National Mambo Sauce Day was officially founded in 2025 by Tone P and GOGO Global, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and promoting Go-Go culture and D.C.’s creative legacy.
So mark your calendars and celebrate the sauce that brings the city together every October 16.
Listen tothe full interview with Joe Clair, Nina Brown, and Tone P below:
Big news for D.C. music and community! The Crank Crusaders are dropping their next single, “Take It To The Bridge”, in partnership with The 11th Street Bridge Park, and this one’s all about giving back to the neighborhood!
The 11th Street Bridge Park isn’t just a park; it’s D.C.’s first elevated public park, right over the Anacostia River. It’s designed to be a space for healthy recreation, environmental education, and the arts, while bringing communities closer together.
Here’s what makes it special:
A safe place for residents to exercise, play, and enjoy the outdoors
A way to connect with the Anacostia River and nature right in the city
Reconnecting neighborhoods like Anacostia / Fairlawn and Capitol Hill / Navy Yard
Creating new jobs and economic opportunities for local residents
“Take It To The Bridge” celebrates all of this, music and community coming together for a brighter, stronger D.C.
Stay tuned for the release and get ready to vibe for a cause!
As the government shutdown continues to impact thousands of unpaid federal workers, Democrats are calling out what they see as a glaring double standard. Elected officials are still getting their paychecks while everyday workers go without.
According to Politicus USA, Rep. John Larson has introduced a new bill that would put an end to that. The legislation would withhold pay from members of Congress, former President Donald Trump, JD Vance, and White House officials during any government shutdown.
Under the proposal, salaries for the President and Vice President would be placed in an escrow account managed by the Office of Personnel Management. The funds would only be released once the shutdown is over.
Larson isn’t the only one pushing for change. Other lawmakers have also filed similar bills to stop pay for House and Senate members until federal employees are back to work and getting paid.
The goal: to make sure the people making the decisions feel the same financial impact as the workers caught in the middle.
Broadcasting icon Bryant Gumbel has been hospitalized in New York City following a reported medical emergency, according to TMZ.
The 77-year-old journalist was transported from his Manhattan apartment building to a nearby hospital, where he’s receiving treatment. His condition remains unclear, and representatives have not yet released an official statement. A family member told TMZ that Bryant is “okay.”
Gumbel is best known for his 15-year run as cohost of NBC’s Today show and for leading HBO’s acclaimed series Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel. His impact on journalism and sports broadcasting has made him one of the most respected figures in television.
The news comes just a year after the passing of his brother, fellow broadcaster Greg Gumbel.
This is a developing story. We’ll update as more details become available.
Michael Jackson’s legendary hit “Thriller” is back on top of the charts this Halloween season. According to Forbes, the iconic song has returned to No. 1 on multiple Billboard charts, demonstrating that the King of Pop’s influence remains enduring.
The 1982 classic sold over 1,000 copies in the last week and continues to dominate the R&B Digital Song Sales chart, where it’s reigned for more than a decade. The Thriller album itself still the most consumed studio LP in American history, has now spent an incredible 699 weeks on the Billboard 200.
And it’s not just “Thriller” making a comeback. “Billie Jean,” another timeless hit from the same era, is also rising again, re-entering the R&B Streaming Songs chart at No. 15.
Every Halloween, fans around the world revisit the spooky, groundbreaking sounds that redefined music and pop culture. Four decades later, “Thriller” continues to prove why Michael Jackson remains the one and only King of Pop.
Nearly two decades after declaring “Hip Hop Is Dead,” rap icon Nas is giving credit where it’s due. In a recent reflection, he praised artists like Kendrick Lamar and Clipse for reigniting the energy and creativity that continues to drive the culture forward.
In a recent interview with Complex, Nas specifically pointed to Kendrick Lamar’s hit single “Not Like Us” and his chart-topping album GNX as major forces in Hip-Hop’s current resurgence.
He also saluted Clipse the duo of Pusha T and No Malice for their long-awaited comeback album, Let God Sort Em Out, their first in 16 years. Both albums have sparked major excitement across the industry and are already being mentioned as front-runners for Best Rap Album at the 2026 Grammy Awards. 🏆
Beyond the headlines, Nas took a moment to recognize the next generation of MCs and the rise of female artists shaping Hip-Hop’s sound and direction. He says their influence proves the genre is far from stagnant.
Even with ongoing challenges like ignorance and violence, Nas believes the culture remains balanced and thriving. What started as a movement in the Bronx, he says, continues to evolve, inspire, and reinvent itself.
In 2006, Nas’s album Hip Hop Is Dead sparked heated debates about the genre’s direction. Now, nearly twenty years later, he’s celebrating its rebirth — proof that Hip-Hop never really dies, it just reinvents itself.
This morning a powerful forum set to take place tomorrow on the campus of Howard University designed to address workplace pain and providing workers with the skills to bounce back. It’s called Work Hurt to Healing. My guest this morning is Yuri Brown Cruzat – Founder of WorkHurt.co.
Howard University’s Center for Women, Gender, and Global Leadership, in partnership with WorkHurt.co, will host WorkHurt to Healing: A Forum on Workplace Resilience—a groundbreaking event exploring how individuals can transform workplace pain into purpose—on Thursday, October 23, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Louis Stokes Health Sciences Library. For more information go here: workhurt.co/register
It’s a Financial Tuesday this morning on Taking It to the Streets and I have some valuable information on how to build generational wealth. There is a free seminar happening this weekend to teach you the tools to grow your family’s wealth through real estate and probate. My guest is Carl Allen – Real Estate Expert
Building Generational Wealth Through Real Estate and Probate Seminar is Saturday, October 25th from 10:30am to 11:30am at TD Bank East of the River – 2857 Alabama Avenue, SE DC. RSVP at 301-343-5000.
We’re confronting a crisis that too often stays behind closed doors — domestic violence. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the reality in Prince George’s County is heartbreaking. More lives are lost to domestic violence in the county than anywhere else in Maryland. It’s a sobering reminder that for far too many, home is not a place of safety. We’re talking with advocates and service providers about what’s fueling this deadly trend — and what it will take to stop it.
Guests:
Arleen Joell, CEO and Founder of Community Advocates for Family & Youth (CAFY)
Clarafrancie Cromer Sowers – Founder of C S Counseling Services, LLC
We are now 20 days into the federal government shutdown, and the strain is hitting home for thousands of workers across the dmv. This is especially true for Black federal employees who make up a vital part of our nation’s workforce. Over the weekend, millions took to the streets for “No Kings Day,” a national pushback against the trump administration — its firings of federal workers, immigration policies, and the ongoing shutdown. We’re digging into all of it, the protests, the politics, and the personal toll. How are employees coping and what comes next if washington can’t find a way forward.
Guest:
David Groves, National President, Blacks In Government (BIG)
We special editon of The Daily Drum. We revisit the disappearance of Relisha Rudd. The eight-year-old girl from Washington, D.C. vanished in March of 2014 and was never seen again. She would be 20 years old this month. But her story remains a one of the biggest mysteries in modern D.C. history. A new two-part documentary produced by the Black and Missing Foundation, set for release this month, examines the case. It’s titled “The Vanishing of Relisha Rudd: A Cold Case Re-examined” In it, we hear from family, friends and the reporters who investigated the case.
Guests:
Derrica Wilson, Co-founder Black and Missing Foundation
Jonquilyn Hill, Host, “Through The Cracks” podcast
A big event happening tomorrow for DMV youth. It’s hosted by the Swaliga Foundation and it’s called the “10th Annual STEAM The Block Party.” My guest this morning is Lemond Brown – Founder and CEO of the Swaliga Foundation
The Swaliga Foundation 10th annual #STEAMtheBlock Party. This year’s free Back-to-School event will be on Friday, October 17th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at GATEWAY DC. More information here: www.swaligafoundation.org
At a time when so many workers are feeling anxious, devalued, and simply burned out, how do you turn that workplace pain into purpose? We’re talking about workplace resilience — what it really takes to bounce back and protect your well-being on the job. We’ll hear from two experts who know all too well about workplace stress. We will also spotlight an upcoming forum designed to help employees heal, refocus, and rise.
Guest:
Dr. Anita Plummer, Associate Professor, Executive Director, Howard University Center for Women, Gender and Global Leadership
It’s an “Ask The Lawyer” segment with personal injury attorney Andy Bederman. He’s celebrating a major milestone marking 40 years in the legal profession. We’ll take a look at his pioneering career, as well as the evolution of the legal profession, and the new challenges facing those seeking justice after personal injury.
Guest: Andy Bederman, Esq., Managing Partner, Greenberg and Bederman
Ben’s Original is recalling several Ready Rice products after reports that small stones from a rice Ben’s Original is recalling several varieties of its Ready Rice products after reports of possible stone contamination. The recall affects select batches of Long Grain White, Whole Grain Brown, and Long Grain & Wild Ready Rice.
The company says small stones from the rice farm may have made their way into the finished products, posing a potential injury risk if eaten. So far, no injuries have been reported, but consumers are being urged to check their pantries and review the affected batch codes below:
Long Grain White Rice: Batch codes 533ELGRV22 and 534ALGRV22 (the latter sold at HEB)
Whole Grain Brown Rice: Batch codes 534AMGRV22, 534BMGRV22, and 534DMGRV22 (sold at Target and HEB)
Long Grain & Wild Rice: Batch codes 533BMGRV22, 533CLGRV22, and 533CMGRV22 (sold at United Markets, HEB, Amazon, and Piggly Wiggly)
Consumers should check batch codes and best-by dates on their Ready Rice packages. Any matching products should be returned to the store for a full refund.
While Ben’s Original has not received any reports of injuries, the company is urging customers to take precautions to prevent harm.
For more information or updates on the recall, visit FDA.GOV or check your local news and grocery alerts.
This morning some driving tips to keep you safe while traveling across the DMV as the deer-mating season kicks in full swing. Triple A says deer crashes are not only costly. But can be deadly. My guest is Ragina Ali – Manager of Public and Government Affairs for Triple-A
From 2014-2023, more than 1,900 people nationwide were killed in crashes involving animals, including 8 in Maryland and 37. AAA says the average claim in Maryland for an animal strike in 2024 was $6,218. The average claim in the District and Virginia was $5,156 and $5,528 respectively. www.aca.aaa.com
It’s all about uplifting Black-owned businesses and celebrating Black entrepreneurship, culture, and joy. Black on the Block is coming to DC this weekend and I have the founders with me to provide all the details. My two special guests are Lanie and Char Edwards – Founders of Black on the Block
Get connected to businesses the matter. Attend Black on the Block DC October 19th at National Parks. It’s a day filled with Black owned businesses, music, food and more. For more information go here: www.blackxtheblock.com
The U.S. Supreme Court is preparing to hear a major voting rights case on Wednesday, October 15th— Louisiana v. Callais. At the heart of the case is Section 2 of The Voting Rights Act and whether race can legally be considered when drawing voting districts. The decision could redefine how Black and Brown voices are represented at the ballot box — not just in Louisiana, but across the nation. We’er unpacking what’s at stake and why this is a case many on both sides are watching.
Guests:
Cliff Albright, Co-Founder, The Black Voters Matter Fund
R&B and soul legend D’Angelo has passed away at the age of 51 after a private battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born Michael Eugene Archer in Richmond, Virginia, D’Angelo was a musical visionary whose seamless blend of gospel, funk, jazz, and hip-hop made him one of the most influential artists of his generation. His music was intimate, spiritual, and revolutionary—a reflection of a man who poured his truth into every note.
His debut album, Brown Sugar (1995), helped define the neo-soul movement of the 1990s, standing alongside Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, and Maxwell. The album sold over two million copies and gave us timeless tracks like “Brown Sugar,” “Cruisin’,” and “Lady,” establishing him as one of the most influential artists of his time.”
His 2000 follow-up, Voodoo, became a cultural milestone. The sultry single “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” earned him a Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance, while the album itself won Best R&B Album at the 2001 Grammys. Voodoo remains one of the most celebrated soul records of its era.
After a decade-long hiatus, D’Angelo returned in 2014 with Black Messiah, a powerful, politically charged masterpiece recorded with The Vanguard. The album’s honesty, depth, and social commentary proved his artistry had only grown stronger, earning widespread critical acclaim.
D’Angelo’s influence continues to echo through today’s R&B and hip-hop, from his sound and style to the countless artists who cite him as inspiration.
His legacy will forever live in the soul of modern music.
Rest Peacefully D’Angelo🙏🏾🕊️ No parent want to see their children go but it’s painful for children to see their parents go to so send prayers up for his son who also lost his mom this year for strength 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/XDIRSskF08
Some lifesaving information for you this morning. It is Fire Prevention week and we have the DC Fire Marshall with us this morning to offer up some tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe.My guest is Edward Kauffman – Deputy Fire Chief – Fire Marshall for DC Fire and EMS Department
It’s Fire Safety Week and DC Fire and EMS wants residents to know the importance of fire safety. Head over to their website for some life saving tips and information. For more information go here: www.fems.dc.gov
If you couldn’t make it to the greens, here’s what you missed! The WHUR 96.3 Inaugural Charity Golf Tournament brought out the community in full swing at Oak Creek Golf Club for a day filled with friendly competition, laughter, and purpose.
From the first tee-off to the final putt, the energy was unmatched as Howard University alumni, local leaders, and WHUR listeners came together to support a great cause.
The day featured incredible golf moments, networking opportunities, and plenty of fun off the course, including music, food, and photo ops with WHUR personalities. More than just a tournament, it was a celebration of unity and giving back to the community that continues to support WHUR.
A huge thank you to our sponsors, partners, and participants who made the event such a success. Your support helps us continue the work we do to uplift and strengthen our community.
Couldn’t make it? Don’t worry, check out our full recap video for the highlights and see why this event was truly one for the books.
Washington, D.C. (Saturday, October 11, 2025) — WHUR 96.3FM kicked off its Season of Giving in a big way with the success of the 23rd Annual WHUR Children’s Coat Drive held today at The Shops at Iverson with weekend host Coka-Lani. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our loyal listeners and community partners, more than 590 new coats, hats, and gloves were collected to help keep children across the DMV warm this winter.
The donated items will be distributed equally among non-profit organizations serving low- and moderate-income families throughout the region, ensuring that children in need have the proper winter gear to face the cold months ahead.
“This event is a powerful reminder of what happens when our community comes together for a common cause,” said WHUR General Manager Sean Plater. “Our listeners always step up to answer the call to help those in need, and today was no exception.”
Among the organizations receiving coats this year was Sasha Bruce Youthwork, which provides shelter and support to homeless and at-risk youth. “The winter gear will go a long way in helping our young people not only stay warm, but also feel better about their outlook,” said Heideh Shahmoradi – Board Member for Sasha Bruce Youthwork.
WHUR extends heartfelt appreciation to our sponsorship partner, FedEx, for their continued commitment to community service, as well as to the brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., representing chapters across the region, and the Top Flight Corvette Club for their outstanding support and participation.
The WHUR Children’s Coat Drive marks the official start of the station’s Season of Giving, which continues with Food2Feed on November 18th and the Children’s Toy Drive on December 13th. Together, these efforts highlight WHUR’s ongoing mission to uplift and serve families throughout the Washington metropolitan area.
Below are the organizations receiving the coats, hats, and gloves from teh 2025 WHUR Children’s Coat Drive
Mentoring Education Together With Children – provides educational and social services support to youth and their families in Northern Virginia.
Mission of Love Charities, Inc. – serves homeless and low-income families and individuals in the DMV with food, shelter, clothing, mental health, and job training.
Sasha Bruce Youthwork – works to break the cycle of homelessness for young people in the dmv by providing safe havens and stable housing while equipping young people with essential life skills and educational opportunities.
United Communities Against Poverty – provides solutions to alleviate poverty in Prince George’s County through affordable housing, senior services, emergency shelter, food assistance, eviction prevention, and youth services.
YMCA Calomiris Program Center – mission is to foster the spiritual, mental, and physical development of individuals, families, and communities.
We’re at the Reporters’ Roundtable as we look at some of the top stories of the week. There’s a lot happening. The Trump Adminstration begins more federal government layoffs. The government shutdown continues. The DOJ goes after another of the president’s political foes. Black churches taking a stand against christian white nationalists and so much more.
Guests:
Micha Green, Managing Editor of The Washington Informer.
Journalist Curtis Crutchfield and former news director of Prince George’s Community TV.
It’s that time of year again. WHUR is kicking off our Season of Giving and we need your help DMV to provide that extra support for our neighbors in need. It’s our 23rd Annual WHUR Children’s Coat Drive coming up this weekend and my good friend and colleague Renee Nash is fresh off the News Desk with the details.
The 23rd Annual Children’s Coat Drive is Saturday, October 11th from 12pm to 4pm in center court at the Mall at Iverson – 3737 Branch Avenue in Hillcrest Heights, Maryland. We need NEW coats, hats, and gloves for children ages 2 to 17. For more information go here: www.whur.com
We’re focusing on Montgomery County. There’s a lot to consider, the federal government shutdown and what mean for families in the county, reports of ICE raids raising concern in immigrant communities. Also the latest proposals to redraw school boundaries are stirring debate across the county. County Executive Marc Elrich joins us to break it all down, what’s at stake, what’s next, and how it all impacts you.
