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The 76th Emmy Awards red carpet on September 15, 2024, showcased an array of stunning and handsome fashion moments at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Just in case you missed we had to share some of our favorites.
(Monday, September 16, 2024) – Sad news to report this morning in the world of entertainment. Tito Jackson, part of the famed Jackson 5, has died. His sons posted the passing on Instagram saying “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us. We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken.” No details given on the cause of death.
Tito was the third of nine Jackson children, which include global superstars Michael and sister Janet, part of a music-making family whose songs date back half a century. Tito Jackson, born October 15, 1953 Toriano Adaryll, was 70.
With just weeks to go before Election Day, my guest this morning wants to make sure DC residents are ready to exercise their right to vote. My guest is Gary Thompson – Chair of DC Board of Elections
National Voter Registration Day is a nonpartisan civic holiday dedicated to celebrating our democracy. Since its kickoff in 2012, the holiday and its team of thousands of Partners have worked to get over 5 million Americans registered to vote in time for their next trip to the ballot box For more information go here: www.dcboe.org
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(Sunday, September 15, 2024) – Former President Donald Trump was the apparent target of another assassination attempt. The FBI says it is investigating the attempt that occurred Sunday at the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Fl. Trump who was golfing at the time, was not hurt and a suspect is in custody.
No information released on the suspect. But Palm Beach County Sheriff Rick Bradshaw said they recovered an AK-47 with scope, two backpacks, and a GoPro camera from the bushes where the gunman had posted up just 300 to 500 yards from Trump. According to Bradshaw, it appears the gunman was planning to record his actions.
The gunman was apparently spotted by the Secret Service in the bushes. Bradshaw said that agent shot at the suspect who fled the scene in an SUV and was later taken into custody in a neighboring county.
The attempted assassination comes just nine weeks after Trump was grazed by a bullet at a Pennsylvania rally. That suspected gunman was fatally shot by agents.
Resources:
Filing a discrimination complaint in Maryland: https://mccr.maryland.gov/Pages/Intake.aspx
Housing Counseling Service, Inc. https://housingetc.org/
After reporting the death of nine due to listeria linked to Boar’s Head Deli meat, the company has announced the indefinite closure of the plant tied to the outbreak.
The Boar’s Head plant in Jarratt, Virginia, at the center of a deadly listeria outbreak in the U.S., is closing down following nine deaths and 57 hospitalizations linked to its products.
The United Food and Commercial Workers Local 400 Union announced the plant’s indefinite closure, expressing support for affected workers. The union negotiated agreements with the company to provide workers with transfer opportunities or generous severance packages.
The recall over listeria concerns initially announced on July 26 has since been expanded to include an additional 7 million pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products.
Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is getting hitched.
Hurts and longtime girlfriend Bryonna Rivera Burrows recently confirmed they’re engaged.
According to a report in Essence, Hurts popped the question in a tropical locale just before the season. He even hired a violinist to play during the romantic moment.
Hurts and Burrows have dated off and on since meeting as students at the University of Alabama. Where Burrows became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and Hurts became a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. as well as a star quarterback.
In the May/June 2023 issue of Essence he expressed his love for Burrows, “I knew a long time ago,” he said. “I mean, to this point in my life, that’s an irreplaceable feeling. I think that’s what allowed us to get to where we are now.”
It’s the love we love to see and celebrate! Congratulations to the future Mr. & Mrs. Hurts.
Howard University’s 2024 opening convocation will take place on Friday, September 13 at 11 AM in Cramton Auditorium. This year, Mark A. L. Mason Sr. (BBA ’91), vice chair of the University’s Board of Trustees, will serve as the keynote orator. To view, click here.
Recently, Usher revealed to US Weekly that the next goal he wants to accomplish in his career, it has to do with the Academy Awards.
Usher said, “I could win an Oscar. There’s many ways. There’s documentaries that have won Oscars.”
He continued, “There’s live performances that have won Oscars. Who knows? Musical scoring. So many different things in musical categories that may potentially play. Yes, I would love to find a script. I’d love to be able to someday say that I won an Oscar.”
Usher has released his new concert film called Rendezvous in Paris, which captures his performance in the French city. “One beautiful part about going to the movies is you have to put your phone down,” he says regarding the film in theater until Sunday, September 15.
“We put so much energy and effort into making this film something that the entire world would be able to experience, because many people didn’t get the chance to make it to Las Vegas [for my residency]. They didn’t get a chance to make it to Paris. But this film captures so much of the live performance and then some.
Register below for the free, Caring Out Loud caregiving event at MLK, Jr. Library in D.C. on Friday, September 12th, 2024.
https://familyvaluesatwork.org/events-directory/caringoutloud/
The 34th Annual Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival is coming up this weekend and it’s packed with free events for the entire family complete with music, food, and culture. I have the Co-Chair with me to share all the details. My guest is Davis Stansbury – Co-Chair
The 34th Annual Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival is Saturday, September 14th from 10am to 7pm at Navy Marine corps Memorial Stadion in Annapolis. Admission is free. For more information go here: www.kuntakinte.org
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(Wednesday, September 11, 2024) – The family of Howard Stanley Beverly known to his fans as “Frankie Beverly” announced this morning the passing of the beloved singer and songwriter. No details were given on the cause of death. The family says Beverly passed away on September 10th. Frankie Beverly was 77.
In a statement released on social media, the family asked for privacy and understanding saying they needed time to navigate feelings of sorrow, reflection, and remembrance. Beverly was a legend in the industry. The singer, songwriter, and producer was best known as the founder and frontman of the R&B sensation band Maze.
Frankie Beverly was a fan favorite around the country and here in the DMV where he was known to sell out D.A.R Constitution Hall every time he would come to town. Beverly performed his final concert in Philadelphia at the Dell Music Center in North Philly, were he had wooed crowds for decades.
Born on December 6, 1946 in Philadelphia, Beverly’s career began in the 1960s and spanned nearly 60 years with his smooth blend of soul, funk, and R&B. His hits were plentiful like “Before I let Go,” “We Are One,” “Back In Stride,” “Love Is the Key,” and many more.
Tributes and condolences are pouring in from around the country for the man known for his all white outfits from head to toe. Frankie Beverly dead at the age of 77.
Tuesday, shortly after the Harris V. Trump debate singer Taylor Swift announced that she supports VP Kamala Harris in her campaign to become President this November.
In an Instagram post to her over 280 Million followers, holding a cat Taylor Swift states, “I will be casting my vote for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in the 2024 Presidential Election.”
She continues, “I’m voting for @kamalaharris [Kamala Harris] because she fights for the rights and causes I believe need a warrior to champion them. I think she is a steady-handed, gifted leader and I believe we can accomplish so much more in this country if we are led by calm and not chaos.”
This announcement came in immediate response after Swift acknowledges she was made aware that Al of her was falsely endorsing Donald Trump. She added, “It really conjured up my fears around Al, and the dangers of spreading misinformation. It brought me to the conclusion that i need to be very transparent about my actual plans for this election as a voter. The simplest way to combat misinformation is with the truth.”
The Miami-Dade Police Department has released the full bodycam video from Tyreek Hill’s detainment ahead of Sunday’s Dolphins-Jaguars game.
An officer is seen knocking on Hill’s window after he’s pulled over for speeding in a black McLaren sports car. The officer tells Hill to roll down the window, but Hill says “Give me my ticket, bro, so I can go, I’m gonna be late.”
The officer then pulls Hill from the car and several officers force him to the ground and place him in handcuffs. At one point, an officer says to another “You know who that is, right? It’s one of the Dolphins’ star players.”
The footage also shows two of Hill’s teammates, Jonnu Smith and Calais Campbell, being ordered to leave as they try to speak to the officers. Hill is released after about 25 minutes and tells the officers he’ll “see y’all in court” as he leaves. MDPD has ordered an investigation into the incident and placed one of the officers involved on administrative duty.
Join the Top Men’s and Women’s HBCU Golf Program for their annual community meet and greet at the historic Langston Golf Course. The event will feature the 2024 NEC Champions. The event takes place Friday, September 13 from 5pm-7pm at Langston Golf Course 2600 Benning Rd. NE DC 20002. My guest this morning is Coach Sam Puryear. For more information contact Sheldon Holloway at sheldon.holloway@howard.edu or call 404-580-9621
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Resources: Dial 988 if you are having a suicide-related crisis for immediate support
https://blackpeoplediebysuicidetoo.org/
https://visionquestretreats.com/
Iconic actor James Earl Jones, known for his powerful voice and memorable roles in “The Lion King,” “Star Wars,” and “Field of Dreams,” has passed away at the age of 93.
According to AP News “his agent, Barry McPherson, confirmed Jones died Monday morning at home in New York’s Hudson Valley region.”
“He passed this morning surrounded by his loved ones,” McPherson said. “He was a great man.”
Overcoming a severe stutter and racial prejudice, Jones became a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, winning numerous awards and accolades for his work on stage and screen.
His legacy includes iconic performances in film, theater, and television, as well as his distinctive voice work on CNN, Darth Vader in Star Wars, and Disney’s “The Lion King.”
Jones’ impact on American culture and the arts is celebrated, with a Broadway theater being renamed in his honor in 2022. His remarkable career and contributions to storytelling will continue to inspire generations to come.
A cause of death was not immediately released.
Recently, Jay-Z announced Kendrick Lamar headlining next year’s Super Bowl and discussed Kendrick’s talent in his statement. The Super Bowl LIX Halftime show will take place at The Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, LA on Sunday, February 9, 2025, airing on FOX.
Many from the industry weighed in on Kendrick Lamar’s upcoming Super Bowl Halftime Show performance, Cam’ron & Ma$e revealed that they think Jay-Z was hating on Lil Wayne by choosing Kendrick Lamar to headline the Super Bowl in New Orleans.
Cam said about Jay-Z’s choice, “There’s no reason why Little Wayne should not be performing the Super Bowl. It’s one person who’s stopping this. You know, it’s not really a secret. Lil Wayne had a problem with somebody before who’s kinda part of the organization running it. This is payback.”
Ma$e and Cam alluded to the rumor that Jay-Z blocked them from participating in the Fanatics Fest and added, “I’m a start saying names. The hate is crazy.”
Master P another strong advocate for Lil Wayne to be included in the performance, citing his status as a legendary hip-hop artist from the city. Kendrick Lamar’s announcement sparked controversy and calls for recognition of local talent in the halftime show lineup.
“Salute to @kendricklamar for performing at the halftime show at Super Bowl LIX.. well deserved, he’s one of the hottest music artists in the world and has one of the biggest songs right now,” he said.
He continued, “As Ambassador of Entertainment in the City of New Orleans, I have to agree with the fans that @liltunechi #LilWayne should be a part of this celebration as well. He’s one of the greatest [hip-hop] artists alive, still relevant and he’s a New Orleans native.”
He added, “Let’s not miss this cultural moment in the South. Life is too short! We have to give our legends their flowers while they are here.”
Jay-Z spoke on the matter, highlighting, “Kendrick Lamar is truly a once-in-a-generation artist and performer.” He continued, “His deep love for Hip-Hop and culture informs his artistic vision. He has an unparalleled ability to define and influence culture globally.”
He added, “Kendrick’s work transcends music, and his impact will be felt for years to come.”
According to The Washington Post, the teenage suspect in Wednesday’s mass shooting at Apalachee High School in Georgia has been publicly named and charged with murder.
The suspect has been identified as 14-year-old Colt Gray. He faces four counts of felony murder and is expected to be tried as an adult.
Gray’s first court appearance is scheduled for Friday morning at 8:30am ET.
Two students and two teachers were killed in the shooting, while nine others were wounded.
Authorities stated Gray’s father, Colin Gray, 54 was charged Thursday with “four counts of involuntary manslaughter, two counts of second-degree murder and eight counts of cruelty to children.” Investigators discovered Colin gave his son the weapon as a gift.
“The actions of both Colin Gray and his son tore apart the Apalachee High School community,” Nick Suplina, a spokesman for the group, said in a statement Thursday evening.
Sign up link for the NIH clinical trial registry: https://www.joinallofus.org/
It’s a wellness Wednesday and this morning my guest is part of group of men coming together to help address cancer in our community. They have a fundraiser coming up and I have all the details you need to know. My guest is Raymia Henderson – Founder of Runway for a Cure DC
Zaddies for A Cause by Runway for A Cure DC is a philanthropic campaign for men to give their support of various cancer causes. Zaddies will host Zaddies On the Beach September 4th at Cove DC. For more information go here: www.zaddiesforacause.org
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Recently, Lee Daniels addressed the internet chatter regarding Glenn Close’s scene at the end of The Deliverance.
The Deliverance is based on a true story based on the haunting and demonic activity of LaToya Ammons and her three children’s family home in Indiana.
The amazing star quality cast included Glenn Close, Mo’Nique, Andra Day, and Demi Singleton. Close’s character is very different from what she is seen, Daniel’s praises her saying, “Y’all are not ready for Glenn in this.”
Viewer shared their opinion, one saying, ” Lee Daniel’s you will pay for your crimes for having Glenn Close say this. Daniels responds, “Had to do it.”
After watching the movie, Daniels said, “Every Black person knows an Alberta. She’s part of the fabric of our community, but we’ve never seen her on screen before.” He continued, “Thank you, Glenn, for bringing her magnificently to life.”
The Deliverance is currently streaming on Netflix.
Recently, Kaytranada revealed that he turned down Beyonce’s offer for him to drop his ‘Cuff It’ remix and said he wasn’t calling her out because of it.
Kaytranada said, “Sometimes people don’t see your worth and how important you are. I know what I mean to people.” He continued, “Mannnn I didn’t drag her that’s just what happened. The remix didn’t get a release and it is what it is but later that year I opened [for] her on tour AND on her Bday on top of that.”
He added, “Now what? I love that girl & y’all ain’t gonna make me look like I ain’t rocking with her.” Kaytranada continued, “That’s my thing: anybody that wanna work with me, just hit me up. Maybe my reaction rubbed them the wrong way, but I was just saying, ‘Hey, if you’re serious, hit me up, let’s work, for real.'”
Resources:
State of Housing in Black America 2023 https://www.nareb.com/publications/2023-shiba-report/
Rihanna is reportedly eager to have a third child with partner A$AP Rocky, following the birth of their sons RZA and Riot in 2022 and 2023, respectively.
Rihanna has expressed her desire for a daughter and seems to be enjoying her time with A$AP Rocky and their children. “Rihanna turned 36 this year and she’d love to have more kids,” a source tells OK!
The couple is said to be considering expanding their family and hoping for a baby girl. Despite no specific timeline, sources suggest that Rihanna is ready to take on another pregnancy naturally. The pair recently enjoyed a family vacation in the Bahamas, sparking rumors that they may be trying for another child soon.
The close source shared, “She and Rocky aren’t putting pressure on anything.” They added, “They’re in love and enjoying their time together and not under any deadline.”
Rihanna last released an album in 2016.
The school bells continue to ring across the DMV and my guest this morning is welcoming her students back with a special ceremony to help youngsters start the year off right.
My guest is Dr. Angelina Arrington – Head of Schools for the Bishop John T. Walker School for Boys
The Bishop Walker School for Boys is a tuition free private elementary school. On Tuesday, September 3rd @ 8:30am there will be a special welcoming ceremony featuring community members lined up to celebrate and usher the boys into a new school year. www.bishopwalkerschool.org
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Afrofuturism
Learn how to buy directly from Africa and the Diaspora. Come out September 6th to Sycamore & Oak in SE for the Re-Defining Afro-Futurism event sponsored by the Fresh Food Factory. www.thefreshfoodfactory.com
Community Day
“Like that Barber Shop” invites you to its Community Day September 14th in Suitland. There will be free haircuts for kids. Plus school uniforms, supplies, and more.
Petworth Festival
The 10th Annual Celebrate Petworth Festival is September 14th. Enjoy free activities for kids, vendors, a dog show, and more. www.celebratepetworth.com
Delta Golf Tournament
The Northern Virginia Delta Education and Community Service invites you to support their signature golf tournament September 12th at the Laurel Hill Golf Club in Lorton. www.nvdecs.org
Poetry At the Library
Grab your favorite poems and join Midnight Rose for its Reading Series of Poetry and Prose September 14th at the Tenley Library in NW. midnightrosereadingseries@gmail.com
Arena Stage
Arena Stage is hosting its free Community Day September 7th at the Mead Center for American Theater. Bring the kids for a day of face painting, balloon making, costume demonstrations, and more. www.arenastage.org
Bowie State Fish Fry
Get your taste buds ready. Friends of Bowie State University are hosting their 10th Annual Fish Fry and Community Awards September 14th in Gaithersburg.
WHUR Community’s Choice
Do you have a community event you want the DMV to know about? Email Renee Nash at rnash@whur.com at least three weeks before your event.
UPDATE: September 25 11:22am
Recently, the medical examiner revealed Fatman Scoop’s cause of death, which was heart disease.
Scoop collapsed on stage last month, which resulted in his death and took many fans by surprise.
The report stated that the disease progressed naturally, and he passed because of “hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.”
ORIGINAL: August 31 11:41 am
Legendary DJ and hip-hop figure FatMan Scoop, real name Isaac Freeman III, has tragically passed away, as confirmed by his tour manager on Instagram.
Freeman’s family released a statement announcing,”It is with profound sadness and very heavy hearts that we share news of the passing of the legendary and iconic FatMan Scoop.”
The news has left the music community heartbroken, with fans and industry members expressing their condolences. Before his death, FatMan Scoop collapsed on stage during a performance in Hamden, Connecticut, and was rushed to the hospital.
The incident has sparked an outpouring of support and concern from fans, who are awaiting updates on his condition.
“We also celebrate his remarkable life and countless lives he touched”, FatMan Scoop was known for his collaborations with artists like Mariah Carey and Missy Elliott, and his impact on the music industry will be remembered.
Washington, D.C. (Friday, August 30, 2024) – Howard University-owned WHUR-FM is adding a new, locally focused afternoon show to its line-up. “The Nina Brown and Joe Clair Afternoon Show” launches Tuesday, September 3rd at 3 p.m. starring DC’s own Comedian and Multimedia Host Joe Clair and Radio Personality and Television Actress Nina Brown. Together, the dynamic duo will serve up the happiest hours in DMV radio with creatively curated programming to meet the needs and interests of listeners.
“Joe and Nina epitomize the next chapter in WHUR’s unwavering commitment to serving the DMV community. Joe Clair, a cultural icon from his days on BET’s “Rap City” to his acclaimed stand-up comedy and now his show on Fox5, teams up with Nina Brown’s broadcasting talent, charisma, and passion. Together, they bring the perfect mix for radio success,” said WHUR Senior Director of Programming Al Payne.
“The Nina Brown and Joe Clair Afternoon Show” promises to enliven the afternoons of listeners with a unique blend of entertainment and community-oriented programming. With their combined expertise and energetic presence, the show is poised to become a go-to staple for listeners seeking both information and fun in their daily routine.
The addition of the “Nina Brown and Joe Clair Afternoon Show The Happiest Hours In DMV Radio” completes WHUR’s weekday line-up beginning with the “Steve Harvey Morning Show” at 6 a.m., “Sunni and the City” at 10 a.m., “The Daily Drum with Harold Fisher” at 7 p.m., and the ‘Original Quiet Storm” at 7:30 p.m.
Recent reports show 57 cases of Listeria infection, resulting in nine deaths across multiple states. All infected individuals have been hospitalized, with one case occurring during pregnancy.
USDA inspectors found over a dozen violations at the Virginia Boar’s Head plant, including mold, mildew, and bugs throughout the facility.
According to the CDC, although the contamination led to a massive recall of over seven million pounds of deli meat between May and July, some people may have tainted meat in their refrigerators.
They’ve advised consumers to throw away or return to the store any Boar’s Head or Old Country deli meat, with the EST. 12612 or P-12612 inside the USDA mark of inspection with sell-by dates between July 19th and October 17th.
Due to the illnesses and deaths, Boar’s Head could face criminal sanctions, because The Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) of 1906, has penalties for violations to ensure meat products are safe and humane.
Mayor Muriel Bowser of Washington, D.C. tested positive for COVID-19.
The news came from her announcement made Thursday morning. “Yesterday, I tested positive for COVID-19,” she wrote. “I’m disappointed to not be able to celebrate the first day of Pre-K with our littlest learners. I will continue to follow public health guidelines.”
Bringing the community together for a day of celebration cultural connections, food, music and more. It’s all happening this weekend in Bowie and Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy joins me with all the details. My guest is Aisha Braveboy – Prince George’s County State’s Attorney
The Office of Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy invites you to a Community Celebration August 31st from 12pm to 6pm at Fairwood Park in Bowie. Register at www.pgsao.org/event
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Washington, D.C. (Wednesday, August 28, 2024) – A veteran D.C. police officer is dead, shot accidentally while handling a gun tossed by a suspect on the run. Executive Assistant Police Chief Jeffrey Carroll announced Wednesday night that officer Wayne David, a 25 year veteran of the department and a member of the violent crime suppression team for 15 years, died of injuries he sustained while retrieving a firearm from near a storm drain on DC-295 South.
“It is with a very heavy heart that I announce that investigator Wayne David passed away this evening here at the hospital ,” said Carroll while speaking outside Washington Medstar Hospital Wednesday night.
Carroll said the drama began around 6 p.m. after officers with the department’s violent crime suppression division attempted to stop a person who they believed was suspicious. Carroll added that the man ran onto the freeway and placed a firearm on the side of a storm drain and fled on the back of a motorcycle. As officers attempted to recover the gun, the firearm went off.
“Wayne has recovered hundreds of guns across the city. Our hearts go out to him, his family, his daughter, his son and other family members. Wayne was a true hero and today he gave his life to serve the visitors and the residents of the District of Columbia and we will never forget that,” added Carroll.
Wayne’s death is considered a line of duty death. Carroll said the city will be having the appropriate honors to honor Wayne’s legacy.
Mayor Muriel Bowser said on X “this is a horrible reminder of the dangers our officers face every day. We are grateful for their service.”
Police have released a photo of the suspect seen fleeing the area. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 202-727-9099.
The Prince George’s County Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction is having its 15th Anniversary Gala. The President is here with me to tell us why this affair is so impactful for the community. My guest is Dawna Dilworth – President, Prince George’s County Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction
The Prince George’s County Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. is hosting their 15th Anniversary Fundraising Gala is Friday, August 30th from 7pm to 11pm at the Samuel IV Riggs Center – College, Park MD. For more information go here: www.tlodpgcc.org
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Two workers were killed in an explosion at a Delta Air Lines maintenance facility near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. According to reports, an airplane tire exploded in the facility’s tire and brake shop.
The plane had arrived in Atlanta from Las Vegas on Sunday. A Delta employee and a contractor were killed, with another worker seriously injured.
“The Delta family is heartbroken at the loss of two team members and the injury of another following an incident this morning at the Atlanta Technical Operations Maintenance facility (TOC 3),” A Delta Air Lines spokesperson told NBC News. “We have extended our full support to family members and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.”
It’s that time of year again. Get ready for another hand clapping-foot stomping good time for the KanKouran’s 41st Annual National African Dance and Music Conference. My guest is Eurica Huggins – Public Relations Officer – KanKoran West African Dance Company
KanKouran’s 41st Annual National African Dance and Music Conference and Concert is Thursday, August 29th – Sunday, September 1st at Cramton Auditorium – on the campus of Howard University.
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According to PEOPLE , Mariah Carey confirmed the deaths of both her mother Patricia and her sister Alison last weekend.
“My heart is broken that I’ve lost my mother this past weekend. Sadly, in a tragic turn of events, my sister lost her life on the same day,” says Carey.
“I feel blessed that I was able to spend the last week with my mom before she passed,” Carey added.
“I appreciate everyone’s love and support and respect for my privacy during this impossible time.”
Patricia was 87 and Alison was 63. Neither of the family members’ causes of death are known at this time.
According to PEOPLE, Sanaa Lathan opened up about her classic role in Love & Basketball and revealed how grateful she was for its cultural impact.
Lathan said, “I just remember, after there was a five-minute standing ovation, I was just floored… and then the rest is history. It became this thing where people watched it over and over and over again, and it crossed all racial and cultural lines.”
She continued, “What a gift it was that I was able to, at a young age, play this amazing, fierce character in this beloved movie. When we were making it, for me, I was nervous about the basketball because I really wasn’t a basketball player. I looked like a basketball player because I had a dance background, so I was able to really mimic.”
She added, “When we shot that last shot where Monica is in an actual game at the end of the movie where Quincy and her daughter are sitting courtside, that was an actual L.A. Sparks game. We had one take. I was so nervous because they allowed us to get the real stadium and the real players. One take, because it was in the middle of an actual game.”
Lathan also mentions her journey of how her being sober for six years helped her play the part of an alcoholic in her new role in The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat. She said, “Each character leaves me with something.” She continued, “There was a period in my life where I was using alcohol as a self-medication.”
She added, “You don’t realize how over time it gets your brain out of balance as well, and the more I educated myself on really what it does to you…I have a mother who has never drank, and she’s probably the funniest person, the happiest person, because there’s this whole belief that you can only have fun with alcohol.”
Lathan continued, “I do believe that I would never have been able to direct a major studio movie if I hadn’t stopped. There are things that I’m doing in my life now that I don’t think that I would’ve been able to sustain.”
Reportedly, Scarface suffered a significant health scare, which landed him in the ICU over the weekend.
He posted a picture of himself in the hospital and said, “Ouch… [three prayer hands emojis] Grateful.” There isn’t much information reported on what caused Scarface’s health issues.
Still, many people are offering prayers for a speedy recovery including Chance The Rapper, Krayzie Bone, Ja Rule, Anthony Hamilton, Travis Scott, Mannie Fresh, Twista, as well as Cedric The Entertainer, Deon Cole, Joe Torry, Affion Crockett, Matt Barnes.