When asked how Disney’s subscription is so low, Disney chairman and CEO Bob Iger said, “This is our first serious foray in this space, and we want to reach as many people as possible with it.”
Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu are getting some company with Disney+. Disney+ will launch their new streaming service in the United States in November 2019. The company announced that the service will cost a monthly fee of $6.99. That’s half of Netflix’s $12.99/month plan.
When asked how Disney’s subscription is so low, Disney chairman and CEO Bob Iger said, “This is our first serious foray in this space, and we want to reach as many people as possible with it.”
This tactic will help Disney beat it’s competition. By 2025, they are expecting to have 60 to 90 million global subscribers. They will also be able to invest more than $2 billion in original programming by that time.
During the first year of its launch, Disney+ will include current and off-air TV shows, 25 original series, 10 original movies and specials, 400 library movie titles and 100 recent theatrical films.
Good news for The Simpsons fans! Disney+ has the rights to all 30 seasons. This will keep you occupied on the weekends.The service wil also include Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars films including the original trilogy.
This will be a huge blow for the competition that does not only include Netflix and Hulu but also Apple, Amazon and Warner Media. Netflix is investing their money into more original programming after losing licensing deals from major companies like Disney.
It is safe to say that fans are excited for the new streaming service. People went to Twitter to express their excitement and praising the low subscriber fee.
“I think Morehouse having the courage to speak to issues of masculinity in today’s environment is important,” Morehouse College President David Thomas told The Associated Press. “For 152 years, the world has, in some way, seen Morehouse as the West Point of black male development.”
The country’s only all-male historically black college will begin admitting transgender men next year, marking a major shift for the school at a time when higher education institutions around the nation are adopting more welcoming policies toward LGBT students.
Transgender men will be allowed to enroll in the school for the first time in 2020. Students who identify as women but were born male cannot enroll, however, and anyone who transitions from male to female will not be automatically eligible to receive a degree from the institution.
Morehouse officials hailed the move as an important step toward a more inclusive campus while affirming its mission to educate and develop men.
“I think Morehouse having the courage to speak to issues of masculinity in today’s environment is important,” Morehouse College President David Thomas told The Associated Press. “For 152 years, the world has, in some way, seen Morehouse as the West Point of black male development.”
The policy also states that Morehouse “will continue to use masculine pronouns” which it calls “the language of brotherhood.”
Morehouse is an iconic college that counts the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., filmmaker Spike Lee and former Atlanta Mayor Maynard Jackson as its alumni. It bills itself as the “college of choice for black men” that has instilled leadership skills in generations of African American men.
More than 1,000 colleges and universities nationwide have adopted some form of a transgender policy, including about two dozen historically black colleges. An increasing number of schools are updating admissions guidelines to ensure transgender students have a welcoming experience, said Human Rights Campaign spokeswoman Sarah McBride.
“Young people are incredibly supportive of LGBT equality, including transgender equality,” McBride said. “Schools are responding in kind. In many ways, our college campuses look like the country we’ll have in 10 or 15 years. There are a lot of reasons for hope.”
Morehouse becomes the first standalone all-male college in the country to adopt a transgender policy. Nationwide, there are only two other all-male colleges, Wabash College in Indiana and Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia. Minnesota’s St. John’s University, which enrolls only men but shares a co-ed academic program with the College of St. Benedict, also has a transgender policy.
Morehouse has had challenges around LGBT issues, most notably the 2002 attack of a 19-year-old student accused of beating a fellow student with a baseball bat who he mistakenly thought was making a sexual advance.
Gregory Love’s skull was fractured in the beating. Aaron Price was found guilty of assault and initially sentenced to 10 years in prison.
The incident was widely seen as reflective of a larger and pervasive attitude toward the LGBT community among African Americans.
Thomas acknowledged that historically black colleges and universities — mainly established after the Civil War with the help of religious institutions like the Baptist and Methodist churches — face added challenges in addressing issues of gender and sexuality because of opposition in black churches.
“I can’t speak for all HBCUs, but we know in the black church there has largely been silence on this issue,” Thomas said. “I can imagine there may be people who would say, ‘Why would you even raise this?’ I say to those people we live in an era now where silence on these issues is actually not helpful. For us, as a school for men, it’s important for us to set clear expectations about what that means. That’s what we’re trying to do with this policy.”
In 2009, the college updated its dress code, in part to address a handful of students who were wearing women’s clothing on campus. The following year, Morehouse held its first Gay Pride. Morehouse offered its first LGBT course in 2013 and has a scholars program named for civil and gay rights icon Bayard Rustin.
Spelman College, an all-woman HBCU next door to Morehouse, adopted a transgender policy in 2017, and the first transgender woman graduated in 2018.
Other HBCUs with transgender policies include Tuskegee University, Howard University, Florida A&M University, Southern University in Louisiana, North Carolina Central University and Morgan State University in Maryland.
Titi Naomi Tukes — a 2017 graduate of Morehouse who enrolled as a cisgender man in 2013 but now identifies as transgender nonbinary and uses the pronouns they/them/their — said they disapproved of the policy, which they learned about in an alumni email on Saturday. Tukes said the policy is hostile and exclusionary toward transgender women and nonbinary students, and could put transitioning students in an unsafe environment if they have to leave the college.
Titi Naomi Tukes — a 2017 graduate of Morehouse who enrolled as a cisgender man in 2013 but now identifies as transgender nonbinary and uses the pronouns they/them/their — said they disapproved of the policy, which they learned about in an alumni email on Saturday. Tukes said the policy is hostile and exclusionary toward transgender women and nonbinary students, and could put transitioning students in an unsafe environment if they have to leave the college.
“You can’t control how someone feels in their body,” said Tukes, now a management consultant working in New York who added they are willing to offer input on how the policy is implemented. “The college fails at addressing and understanding the gender journey that one undergoes during their college experience, spiritually, emotionally, physically and psychologically.”
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Whack is The Associated Press’ national writer on race and ethnicity. Follow her work on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/emarvelous.
Earlier, Pelosi issued a statement while traveling in London saying she had spoken with congressional authorities “to ensure that Capitol Police are conducting a security assessment to safeguard Congresswoman Omar, her family and her staff.”
WASHINGTON (AP) — Rep. Ilhan Omar says she’s faced increased death threats since President Donald Trump spread around a video that purports to show her being dismissive of the 2001 terrorist attacks. “This is endangering lives,” she said, accusing Trump of fomenting right-wing extremism. “It has to stop.”
Her statement late Sunday followed an announcement by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi that she has taken steps to ensure the safety of the Minnesota Democrat and the speaker’s call for Trump to take down the video.
Soon after Pelosi’s statement, the video disappeared as a pinned tweet at the top of Trump’s Twitter feed, but it was not deleted.
Pelosi was among Democrats who had criticized Trump over the tweet , with some accusing him of trying to incite violence against the Muslim lawmaker. An upstate New York man recently was charged with making death threats against her.
White House press secretary Sarah Sanders defended Trump earlier Sunday, saying the president has a duty to highlight Omar’s history of making comments that others deem anti-Semitic or otherwise offensive and that he wished no “ill will” upon the first-term lawmaker.
But Omar said that since Trump retweeted the video Friday night, she’s received many threats on her life that referred or replied to the posted video.
“Violent crimes and other acts of hate by right-wing extremists and white nationalists are on the rise in this country and around the world,” she said. “We can no longer ignore that they are being encouraged by the occupant of the highest office in the land.” She said: “We are all Americans.”
Earlier, Pelosi issued a statement while traveling in London saying she had spoken with congressional authorities “to ensure that Capitol Police are conducting a security assessment to safeguard Congresswoman Omar, her family and her staff.”
Pelosi said officials will continue to monitor and assess threats against Omar and called on Trump to discourage such behavior.
“The President’s words weigh a ton, and his hateful and inflammatory rhetoric creates real danger,” Pelosi said. “President Trump must take down his disrespectful and dangerous video.”
The video in Trump’s tweet included a snippet from a recent speech Omar gave to the Council on American-Islamic Relations, in which she described the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attack on the World Trade Center as “some people did something,” along with news footage of the hijacked airplanes hitting the Twin Towers. Trump captioned his tweet with: “WE WILL NEVER FORGET!”
Critics accuse Omar of being flippant in describing the perpetrators of the attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people. She later sought to defend herself by tweeting a quote from President George W. Bush, in which the Republican president referred to the attackers as “people” just days after 9/11.
Neither Trump’s tweet nor the video included Omar’s full quote or the context of her comments, which were about Muslims feeling that their civil liberties had eroded after the attacks. The tweet was posted atop Trump’s Twitter feed for much of Sunday, with more than 9 million views. It remained lower in the feed after Pelosi requested that the video be pulled.
Sanders questioned why Democrats weren’t following Trump’s example and calling out Omar, too. Democrats who criticized the president over the tweet defended Omar, with some noting their past disagreements with her.
“Certainly the president is wishing no ill will and certainly not violence towards anyone, but the president is absolutely and should be calling out the congresswoman for her — not only one time — but history of anti-Semitic comments,” Sanders said. “The bigger question is why aren’t Democrats doing the same thing? It’s absolutely abhorrent the comments that she continues to make and has made and they look the other way.”
Omar repeatedly has pushed fellow Democrats into uncomfortable territory with comments about Israel and the strength of the Jewish state’s influence in Washington. She apologized for suggesting that lawmakers support Israel for pay and said she isn’t criticizing Jews. But she refused to take back a tweet in which she suggested American supporters of Israel “pledge allegiance” to a foreign country.
Rep. Jerry Nadler, a New York Democrat who represents Manhattan’s financial district, which was targeted on 9/11, said he had no issues with Omar’s characterization of the attack.
“I have had some problems with some of her other remarks, but not — but not with that one,” he said.
Sanders commented on “Fox News Sunday” and ABC’s “This Week.” Nadler appeared on CNN’s “State of the Union.
About 30 million Americans and more than 420 million people worldwide have diabetes , and most cases are Type 2, the kind tied to obesity. It occurs when the body can’t make enough or properly use insulin, which turns food into energy.
A drug that’s used to help control blood sugar in people with diabetes has now been shown to help prevent or slow kidney disease, which causes millions of deaths each year and requires hundreds of thousands of people to use dialysis to stay alive.
Doctors say it’s hard to overstate the importance of this study, and what it means for curbing this problem, which is growing because of the obesity epidemic.
The study tested Janssen Pharmaceuticals’ drug Invokana. Results were discussed Sunday at a medical meeting in Australia and published by the New England Journal of Medicine.
About 30 million Americans and more than 420 million people worldwide have diabetes , and most cases are Type 2, the kind tied to obesity. It occurs when the body can’t make enough or properly use insulin, which turns food into energy.
This can damage the kidneys over time, causing disease and ultimately, failure. In the U.S., it’s responsible for nearly half a million people needing dialysis, and for thousands of kidney transplants each year.
Some blood pressure drugs lower this risk but they’re only partially effective. The new study tested Invokana, a daily pill sold now to help control blood sugar, to see if it also could help prevent kidney disease when added to standard treatments.
For the study, about 13,000 people with Type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease from around the world were to be given Invokana or dummy pills. Independent monitors stopped the study early, after 4,400 people had been treated for about 2.5 years on average, when it was clear the drug was helping.
Those on the drug had a 30% lower risk of one of these problems — kidney failure, need for dialysis, need for a kidney transplant, death from kidney- or heart-related causes, or other signs that kidneys were failing.
For every 1,000 people taking the drug for 2.5 years, there would be 47 fewer cases of one of these problems, researchers estimate.
Rates of serious side effects were similar in the drug and placebo groups including leg, foot or toe amputations, a concern raised by a previous study of Invokana. One side effect, when the body can’t produce enough insulin, was more frequent among those on Invokana but rare overall.
Janssen, which is part of Johnson & Johnson, sponsored the study and many authors work or consult for the company. The drug costs about $500 a month in the U.S. Out-of-pocket costs for patients may be different, depending on insurance.
The importance of this large and well-done study “cannot be overstated,” Drs. Julie Ingelfinger and Clifford Rosen, editors at the medical journal, wrote in an accompanying article.
In recent years, several studies have found that Invokana and some similar drugs can lower heart risks. The new results, showing that Invokana also may stall or prevent kidney failure, expand the potential benefits of the drug.
He went 28 majors over 11 years without winning, and no sooner did he stretch his arms into that familiar green jacket — “Ah, it fits,” he said in Butler Cabin — was he asked about the 18 majors Jack Nicklaus won to set the gold standard in golf.
AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — No comeback by Tiger Woods was ever going to be complete without a major.
Now the question becomes how many more he can win.
So much appeal of that red shirt beneath a green jacket involved looking back at all Woods had to overcome to reach that moment — a Masters champion once again — that so many thought would never happen.
The fourth surgery to rebuild his left knee. The private affairs that became public, shattering his image. The balky back that required four more surgeries, the last one out of desperation because he could barely walk, much less play golf. And a new generation of stars he inspired who were younger, stronger and capable.
That’s why Woods celebrated his 15th major like never before — fist pumps without a club in his hand, because he couldn’t help himself walking off the 18th green.
“Overwhelming,” he said with a voice still hoarse from all that screaming.
He went 28 majors over 11 years without winning, and no sooner did he stretch his arms into that familiar green jacket — “Ah, it fits,” he said in Butler Cabin — was he asked about the 18 majors Jack Nicklaus won to set the gold standard in golf.
“I don’t know if he’s worried or not,” Woods said. “I’m sure he’s home just chilling and watching.”
Whether the record is in play, Nicklaus can expect plenty of questions. For years, he could rarely get through any conversation without someone asking him whether he thought Woods could top his mark.
“I thought for a long time that he was going to win again,” Nicklaus said Sunday night on Golf Channel. “The next two majors are at Bethpage, where he has won, and at Pebble Beach, where he has won. So, he has got me shaking in my boots, guys.”
The last part was delivered in jest.
The first part was factual.
Woods winning his fifth Masters was not entirely out of the blue. He capped the year of his great comeback last year by winning the Tour Championship in typical Tiger fashion, by building a lead on a tough, fast course at East Lake and not giving anyone much of a chance to catch him. He also briefly led Sunday in the British Open, and was one shot behind on the back nine at the PGA Championship.
“The win at East Lake was a big confidence booster for me because I had come close last year a couple times,” Woods said. “Still have to get it across the finish line, and I didn’t quite do it.”
So, imagine the effect of winning the Masters, especially the way this one played out. Six players had at least a share of the lead at one point on the back nine — four of them major champions — and there was a five-way tie for the lead when the final group was in the 15th fairway.
It was anyone’s game until Francesco Molinari, who earlier hit 8-iron in Rae’s Creek on the 12th hole for double bogey, hit a wedge off a tree limb and into the water on the par-5 15th that led to double bogey.
And then it became Woods’ game — a two-putt birdie to take the lead, an 8-iron that rolled down the slope next to the hole for a signature moment at this Masters.
“Well, I can win majors now,” Woods said with a laugh.
The PGA Championship is a month away at Bethpage Black, where Woods was dominant as ever in going wire-to-wire in the 2002 U.S. Open, and was right there with a chance in the 2009 U.S. Open except for a putter that refused to cooperate.
And then it’s the U.S. Open in June at Pebble Beach. If the Masters is the most memorable of his 15 majors, Pebble Beach remains his greatest performance. Woods won there in 2000 by a record 15 shots, even with a triple bogey in the third round. Ten years later, he tied for fourth at the U.S. Open at Pebble, three shots behind.
The courses are familiar. Woods is familiar with winning majors.
But it’s not that simple.
Woods was 24 when he won the U.S. Open at Pebble, and 26 when we won at Bethpage Black. Now he’s 43.
As dynamic as this Masters was for Woods, it was hard work and he needed help — from Molinari on the 12th and 15th holes, from a couple of good bounces out of the trees. That’s not unusual. Every major champion needs a break or two.
Getting to 18 is only easier because Woods is one major closer, a conversation caddie Joe LaCava said they have shared.
“We’re on 14 and I said, ‘Let’s get to 15.’ You can’t be on 14 and thinking about 18,” LaCava said. “But now we can start talking about 16. So we’re getting closer.”
Nicklaus can only watch and admire, which he has done all along. And part of him is cheering.
“I don’t ever pull against anybody,” Nicklaus said. “Nobody wants their record to be broken. But I certainly wouldn’t want Tiger to be hurt and not to be able to do it. Of course, he is now pretty healthy and playing well. I wish him well, I always wish the guys well and I want them to pay their best.”
That’s what Nicklaus saw at Augusta National.
And that’s probably what everyone will expect from Woods the rest of the year.
Black don’t crack! We’ve heard it. We’ve said it. We all know what it means. Black folks always seem to look younger than their actual age. But the author of a new book is trying to add new meaning to the phrase… offering positive motivation in the wake of life’s trials and tribulations.
Debra Hubbard will be signing her book at Savor Bowie, Saturday, April 12th and Sunday, April 13th at the Bowie Town Center 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m.
(Washington, DC) — Reports say someone tried to set himself on fire in front of the White House this afternoon. Social media images show Capitol police carrying the man away from the scene. The Secret Service isn’t letting anyone onto Pennsylvania Ave. There also may be a suspicious package.
(Prince George’s County, MD) — Police say a homeowner shot and killed an armed teenager who broke into his home in Riverdale, Maryland. Officers were called to a residence Wednesday evening after the owner said he shot someone who attempted to break into his home. After the shooting, the 18-year-old suspect reportedly ran from the scene. He was eventually dropped off at an area hospital where he later died from his injuries. The break-in was captured on surveillance footage and a preliminary investigation revealed that the home was indeed a target. The homeowner will not face any charges.
Lebron James is offering students a promising future.
James’ ‘I Promise’ School students, which he founded last year to helped challenge students with support and education in Akron, have earned phenomenal test scores since its opening in August.
The MAP scores showed great improvement for the 240 3rd and 4th graders during the fall to winter period at the school. According to USA Today, this means:
90% of students – who started the school year at least one year behind grade level – met or exceeded their expected growth in math and reading.
Test scores increased at a rate higher than 99 out of 100 schools, per Northwest Evaluation (NWEA) school norms.
Third-graders went from the first percentile to the 18th percentile in math, moving from intensive tier of support to targeted levels of support.
Fourth-graders went from the second percentile to the 30th percentile in math, going from intensive tier of support to low universal tier of support.
All IPS students were below grade level in reading, and in the latest testing scores, 23% of students scored at or above the 25th percentile in reading, putting them at or near grade level.
“We are going to be that groundbreaking school that will be a nationally recognized model for urban and public school excellence,” I Promise School principal and Akron native Brandi Davis said in August.
The school allows students to make a commitment to “promise” to go to school, listen to their teachers and parents, be respect to others and live a healthy life.
Great job Lebron and keep up the good work! This legacy is bigger than basketball!
Pelosi: Trump-Sanctuary City Report “Unworthy Of Presidency”
(Leesburg, VA) — House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says she hasn’t seen a report about President Trump and sanctuary cities but she’s calling it unworthy of the presidency. At the end of the House Democrats’ annual retreat in Northern Virginia, Pelosi said the U.S. is a nation of immigrants. The Washington Post is reporting that the Trump administration urged U.S. immigration officials to ship illegal migrants from the southern border to sanctuary cities across the country. The cities included San Francisco, which Pelosi represents in Congress. The request was seen as way for President Trump to retaliate against political adversaries, but it never went anywhere.
Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, Delta STOMP DAT Youth Step Show, and Foster Parent Orientation. Details on these events and more inside of this week’s Community’s Choice. To get your non-profit on the air and web, email me at rnash@whur.com at least three weeks prior to your event.
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Howard Career Seminar
Howard University Office of Career Services Resume Review, Headshot and Job Fair April 15th – 18th. Register today.
Growing Green
Help beautify the county. Join Prince George’s County for its Growing Green With Pride event May 4th at Watkins Regional Park. growinggreen
Mental Health
Join Families Living with Mental Health Challenges. Come out April 27th for the Mental Health Matters 3k Walk and Picnic at Anacostia Park. It’s hosted by MI Mother’s Keeper. mimotherskeeper
GreenFest
Celebrate Earth Day at the 5th Annual Montgomery County GreenFest April 28th at Brookside Gardens montgomerycountygreenfest
Show your support for our youth. Come out April 27th for the STOMP DAT Youth Step Show at Dunbar High Schools. It’s hosted by the Federal City Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. federalcityalumnaechapterofdst
Foster Parents
Join the National Center for Children and Families for Foster Parent Orientation May 8th at their Greenbelt headquarters. www.nccf.cares.org
Drive Focused
Make a pledge to drive focused, sober, and safe. Come out for the kick-off campaign April 7th at the Southern Regional Technology and Recreation Complex in Oxon Hill. www.sao.mypgc.us
Sisters4Fitness
Get in a healthy state of mind. Lace of your shoes for the 4th Annual Sisters4Fitness 5k Run Walk April 27th at the Bowie Town Center Fountain. www.sisters4fitness.com
Golf Tournament
Grab your clubs and join the Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce for its 7th Annual Golf Tournament and Fundraiser May 16th at the Oak Creek Golf Course. www.pgcoc.org
Smollett lawyer Mark Geragos said in a letter to the city last week that claims Smollett made the entire thing up were “defamatory,” accusing Chicago of trying to “harass” Smollett and pointing to the dismissal of charges as proof he is innocent. It also said Smollett wouldn’t be “intimidated” into paying anything.
CHICAGO (AP) — Chicago filed a lawsuit against Jussie Smollett on Thursday in a bid to recoup the costs of investigating a racist, anti-gay attack that authorities say was orchestrated by the “Empire” actor as a publicity stunt, with the city saying — at minimum — that it now wants triple the amount it initially asked Smollett to pay.
The 12-page civil lawsuit , filed in Cook County court, is the latest volley in a legal battle that shows no signs of abating since Smollett reported that masked men beat him up on Jan. 29 in Chicago, shouting slurs and wrapping a rope around his neck.
The suit comes after Smollett refused a demand that he send the city $130,106 to reimburse Chicago for overtime as police sought to verify Smollett’s account.
The lawsuit doesn’t specify an amount of money the city is seeking but does indicate it wants over $390,000 plus “further relief as this Court deems just and equitable.” It also asks that Smollett be ordered to foot any legal bills Chicago incurs in suing him.
More than two dozen officers and detectives spent two weeks investigating Smollett’s claims, with the police department forced to pay for 1,836 overtime hours, the filing says.
The city’s resolve to take Smollett to civil court follows a surprising decision by prosecutors in March to drop all criminal charges accusing him of staging the incident, saying they believed they could prove the charges but that it wasn’t worth the time and expense.
Mayor Rahm Emanuel denounced the decision as “a whitewash of justice,” and others criticized the Cook County state’s attorney’s office for not requiring an apology and an admission of guilt from Smollett as a condition for tossing the case.
The complaint, written by City Hall’s top attorney, Edward Siskel, lacks the hard-hitting language and denunciations of Smollett by Emanuel. It’s devoted primarily to describing the allegations already spelled out when Smollett was charged in late February.
Smollett, who is black and gay, maintains he has told the truth from the beginning. Reached by phone Thursday evening, a spokeswoman for Smollett’s legal team said there wasn’t an immediate comment on the lawsuit. Smollett’s lawyers would have to respond with a court filing and could move in coming weeks to have the lawsuit thrown out.
Smollett lawyer Mark Geragos said in a letter to the city last week that claims Smollett made the entire thing up were “defamatory,” accusing Chicago of trying to “harass” Smollett and pointing to the dismissal of charges as proof he is innocent. It also said Smollett wouldn’t be “intimidated” into paying anything.
Unless the case is settled beforehand, the lawsuit would eventually go before a jury, which would have to decide if the city or Smollett is right.
If Smollett still refuses to pay after a verdict in the city’s favor, his bank accounts could be frozen.
Smollett admitted no wrongdoing, but agreed to do some community service before charges were dropped. He also agreed to forfeit $10,000 in bond money, which the city could use against him in the civil case as an implied admission of guilt.
Evidence sealed in the criminal case could be unsealed in the civil case and be presented at trial. Smollett could also be required to sit for depositions, forcing him for the first time to explain evidence that the city says shows he was lying.
To the city’s advantage, the threshold for proof will be lower than in criminal court. The city won’t have to prove beyond a reasonable doubt Smollett staged the attack in civil court, only that it’s more likely true than not true that he did.
Among the risks for the city is that the civil litigation could end up costing far more in legal bills than it could ever hope to get from Smollett.
It’s also unclear if Mayor-elect Lori Lightfoot is onboard with the Emanuel administration’s determination to keep legal pressure on Smollett. Lightfoot, a former federal prosecutor who will be Chicago’s first black female mayor when she’s sworn in on May 20, has indicated only that the public deserves a better explanation for why the criminal charges against Smollett were dropped.
The student-led proposal is aimed at atoning for the 1838 sale of 272 slaves, organized by two Jesuits to keep the university afloat. Georgetown has memorialized those sold and now offers preference in admissions to their descendants, but has yet to offer financial reparations.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Georgetown University students are considering a fee benefiting the descendants of enslaved people sold to pay off the school’s debts, an effort that would create one of the first reparations funds at a major U.S. institution.
News outlets report undergraduate students will vote Thursday on a “Reconciliation Contribution” in the form of a $27.20-per-semester fee. The fund would go toward projects in underprivileged communities where some descendants live, like Maringouin, Louisiana.
The student-led proposal is aimed at atoning for the 1838 sale of 272 slaves, organized by two Jesuits to keep the university afloat. Georgetown has memorialized those sold and now offers preference in admissions to their descendants, but has yet to offer financial reparations.
The referendum is non-binding. University officials haven’t indicated how they would respond if it passes.
“I have no idea what it is that I want to do yet but I definitely know that I want to do little bit of everything especially in the beginning I want to see what I can be great at. I’m so use to being great at something or try to strive to be great at something and that’s what I want to be in what ever else I choose to do,” said Wade.
Dwyane Wade, had an explosive final game on Wednesday against the Brooklyn Nets. Wade went out with a triple- double, with 25 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists. However, with his professional basketball career coming to a close, many wonder what’s next for Wade and his family post-retirement.
With his new baby Kaavia and wife, actress Gabrielle Union, the Wades are optimistic about new beginnings for their life. The couple sat down with ESPN’s , The Jump, to discuss life after retirement and how Dwyane Wade will maintain his legacy off the court.
“I have no idea what it is that I want to do yet but I definitely know that I want to do little bit of everything especially in the beginning I want to see what I can be great at. I’m so use to being great at something or try to strive to be great at something and that’s what I want to be in what ever else I choose to do,” said Wade.
The family is also excited to do simple everyday things like going to the vet. Union jokingly asked Wade if he has ever been to the vet and he replied, “no.”
Wade hopes that future basketball players takes after his league shifting examples he set during his NBA career.
“I hope I set up a good enough example for who’s to come next. To understand their power, to understand their voice, to understand how to use their platform. I had to make a lot of mistakes before I got here so hopefully we’ be able to get a rid of some of the mistakes for the next generation..”
Check out the entire interview below:
Gabrielle Union also gave a quick shout out to her man on Instagram:
Dwyane Wade has been an impactful piece to Miami Heat’s puzzle since 2003. During his 16 year career he accomplished being a 3x NBA Champion, NBA Finals MVP, 13x NBA All- Star and NBA All- Star MVP amongst many more accolades. The loyal fans of Miami Heat will miss his legendary presence on the court. However, we are sure he will be a legendary father and husband off the court.
The man that police have arrested and charged with posing as a Howard student to lure young girls to his home has been charged with another sexual assault. 35-year-old Julian Everett was already facing three counts of sexual assault. It involved two Howard students and a woman who accused him of the crime.
The fourth victim came forward after the story broke last month. The unidentified woman said the incident happened to her in 2015. When police initially arrested Everett they felt that there could be other victims. Prosecutors said Everett who meet his victims via social media or at parities. He would take them to his home, drug them and then have unconsentual sex with them. Some of his victims report that they remember feeling groggy after drinking with him or that they would wake up to him after he had sex with them. Everett who lives in New Carrollton owns a barbershop on “U” Street not far from the university. He remains in jail without bond. It is unclear if this fourth victim attended Howard University.
Follow me on Instagram and Twitter @taylorthomas963
La Plata HS principal says threat of violence “not credible”
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The Charles County Sheriff Department has been very busy over the last few weeks addressing issues involving students found with weapons on campus. A 14-year-old was taken into custody this week for bringing a loaded handgun to his school La Plata High School. He will be charged as a juvenile in this matter.
On Thursday police in Charles County filed criminal charges against a 17-year-old La Plata High School student who made online threats of violence. That student threatened to shoot students on Friday. The school’s principle Douglass Dolan sent letters home to parents. He stated the threat was “not credible”. The stories and arrests have many in the community on edge. In response school leaders are planning to hold a community meeting on school safety and the recent arrests and charges at 7 p.m. at La Plata High School in the auditorium.
Follow me on Instagram and Twitter @taylorthomas963
“Thank you to everyone for respecting the family’s privacy during this time. Kevin is supportive of Wendy and they are working through this process together,” a personal representative for Williams spoke out.
After 20 years of marriage Wendy Williams filed for divorce from her husband Kevin Hunter. They have been married for more than 20 years.
Reports say Williams hired an attorney to be present and serve Hunter with divorce papers at 6:30 am on Thursday. While this has been Williams’ second marriage, there has been a slow build up to this divorce that led to the final decision.
A representative for her show released the following statement, “Wendy and her family have been a part of Debmar-Mercury for over 10 years,. We respect their privacy regarding personal matters. As always, we remain committed to bringing an entertaining and topical show to our viewers.”
Williams revealed on her talk show that she was living in a sober home due to her past addiction to cocaine. Williams took a hiatus from her daytime talk show. Williams was also under care and hospitalized due to a fractured shoulder, her battle with Grave’s disease, and she was found drunk and unconscious in recent weeks.
“Thank you to everyone for respecting the family’s privacy during this time. Kevin is supportive of Wendy and they are working through this process together,” a personal representative for Williams spoke out.
A woman was violent beaten in DC, public’s help is needed
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Police are asking for the publics help in solving a violent beating. Tuesday night around 8 a woman was found by officers on Quincy Place in Northeast. She have been savagely attacked.
Police have identified the woman as Stephanie Harris. The victim suffered serious injuries including brain damage, a collapsed lung and a broken neck. Harris is currently conscious and under a doctor’s care at Medstar Hospital Centers.
Investigators are hoping if anyone knows something or seen something they contact police.
Follow me on Instagram and Twitter @taylorthomas963
“I don’t lie about food. It’s gonna be always good if it comes from Patti.”, Patti Shares when she debuted her new pie flavor, country buttermilk pie at Walmart. She’s even cooked for legends like Prince, Elton John, and Mick Jagger.
Patti LaBelle isn’t only known for pies and desserts. The Grammy award-winning singer is reportedly adding a line of frozen chinese food to her culinary products.
The iconic singer and entertainer LaBelle has partnered with restaurateur, Stratis Morfogen, to begin the newest food line that will be sold in supermarkets across the United States. Morfogen is a third generation entrepreneur and business leader, who grew up in his father’s seafood restaurant business. He also designed and created the Philippe Chow Restaurant Group with his chef/partner Philippe.
LaBelle isn’t new to the food business. She has endless options of desserts like banana pudding cups, vanilla pound cake and “Somebody Loves You, Baby” chocolate cake, all available at Walmart. With her famous sweet potato pie selling out in Walmarts all over the country, LaBelle has developed a name for herself in the pie making industry.
“I don’t lie about food. It’s gonna be always good if it comes from Patti.”, Patti Shares when she debuted her new pie flavor, country buttermilk pie at Walmart. She’s even cooked for legends like Prince, Elton John, and Mick Jagger.
As Labelle ventures out into a new territory for food, her partner Morfogen shares on Instagram about their new partnership with the Chinese food line. The duo celebrated with LaBelle’s business partners, son Zuri Edwards, Alex Thompson and Charles Suitt, at Morfogen’s Brooklyn Chop House.
In honor of Dwyane Wade’s last season in the NBA, Budweiser released their newest commercial reflecting on Wade’s impact in the community. It focuses not only on the Miami Heat star’s achievements in basketball, but on his service to others.
Wade was surprised by 5 people whose lives have changed drastically through Wade’s generosity. He helped a family when their house burned down with a shopping spree, a young woman with her college tuition, a young man struggling with low-income in Miami, and of course his very own mother.
When Wade’s mother Jolinda arrived, she said, “You were the joy of my life, but I was dropping the ball,” she began, “On that road, I noticed you kept showing up and you’d come and see about me. And Dwyane, because you believed in me, when I got out of prison, I was a different woman.” She also gifted him with a purple robe that he had gifted her long before.
Continuing the tradition of exchanging jerseys, the other individuals followed with gifting Wade special items. One gave him the jersey of their brother who passed away, another gave their graduation gown, and lastly one gave a suit jacket he wore to his first job interview.
While the full commercial runs four minutes, Budweiser tells CNN it will be airing a 90-second version on the local broadcast of Tuesday’s game.
The heartfelt tribute has since taken the internet by storm with many fans tweeting out their emotional reactions. Even Wade’s wife Gabrielle Union was amazed and moved with tears.
“Man, this captures so much of what @DwyaneWade means to people,” she wrote. “I’m also bawling,” she shared.
Bigger Than Basketball. So much bigger than basketball.
“While most folks look at the Crenshaw neighborhood where he grew up and only see gangs, bullets and despair, Nipsey saw potential. He saw hope. He saw a community that even through its flaws taught him to always keep going. He chose to invest in that community rather than to ignore it,” the Obama letter read. “He set an example for young people to follow and is a legacy worth of celebration. I hope his memory inspires more good work in Crenshaw and communities like it. Michelle and I send our sympathies to Lauren, Emani, Kross and his whole family and to all those who love Nipsey.”
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Nipsey Hussle’s legacy as a persistent rapper, community activist, uniter, doting father, protective sibling and a loving son were underscored at his public memorial service on Thursday, with deeply personal testimonies from those closest to the rapper, including his actress-fiancee Lauren London, collaborator and dear friend Snoop Dogg and his mother, who said she was at peace with the death of her “superhero” son.
Beyonce and Jay-Z were among the big-name celebrities who attended the three-hour event in Los Angeles at the Staples Center, where the last celebrity funeral held at the concert arena was Michael Jackson’s in 2009.
The arena was packed with more than 21,000 fans and drove home the important impact Hussle — just 33 when he died — had on his city and the rest of the world.
“I’m very proud of my son. My son Ermias Joseph Asghedom was a great man,” said Angelique Smith, dressed in all white. Standing onstage with Hussle’s father, Dawit Asghedom, she declared: “Ermias was a legacy.”
London, who was in dark sunglasses, was emotional but stood strong onstage as she told the audience: “I’ve never felt this type of pain before.”
London called Hussle “majestic” and “brilliant” and said she had learned so much from his presence. She added that though she was hurting, she was really sad for their son Kross, whom she feared wouldn’t remember his dad: “My pain is for my 2-year-old.”
Snoop Dogg’s words to immortalize his friend were both serious and silly, as he told old stories about Hussle and their brotherhood.
“This a tough one right here,” he said, visibly shaken but keeping his composure.
Snoop thanked Hussle’s parents multiple times and told his father that “you picked up another son in me.”
Hussle’s father said he knew his son was strong because when he was born, the umbilical cord was wrapped around his neck but he prevailed.
“He was a fighter,” he said.
Earlier in the ceremony, Hussle’s children also appeared onstage to pay tribute. London’s son with rapper Lil Wayne, Cameron Carter, said days after Hussle died, he had a dream he saw the rapper.
“I realized Ermias told me what heaven was like. He told me it was paradise,” Cameron said.
Cameron then told the audience that Hussle would look at him through the window at times and say “respect.” Cameron then asked the crowd to say “respect” in unison, and they complied.
Hussle was slain last month in front of a store that he tried to use to empower his South Los Angeles neighborhood. The public memorial service kicked off by paying respect to Hussle the rapper, as songs from his latest Grammy-nominated album, “Victory Lap,” filled the arena.
“Everybody put your hands in the air,” the DJ said as one of Hussle’s songs played. “It’s a celebration.”
Indeed, his mother danced in the aisle as R&B singer Marsha Ambrosius sang the Mariah Carey song “Fly Like a Bird” while fighting back tears. “This is for Nipsey y’all,” Ambrosius said before she started as she tried to gain her composure, sighing heavily.
But soon the focus was squarely on the person behind the persona. A montage of photos featuring the rapper from infancy, childhood and adulthood, with fellow rappers, his family and London, were shown to the crowd, set to Frank Sinatra’s “My Way.”
Stevie Wonder was the last performer to pay tribute to Hussle, who he said he had the chance to meet, saying: “We had a good conversation.” Before he sang “Rocket Song,” one of Hussle’s favorites, Wonder denounced gun violence and told the audience “there’s enough people being killed by guns and violence.”
Anthony Hamilton invoked the spirit of a church service when he performed in Hussle’s honor. Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan hailed Hussle’s ability to bring different factions together. And blogger and media figure Karen Civil read a letter sent by former U.S. President Barack Obama, who wrote that he never met Nipsey but heard of his music through his daughters.
“While most folks look at the Crenshaw neighborhood where he grew up and only see gangs, bullets and despair, Nipsey saw potential. He saw hope. He saw a community that even through its flaws taught him to always keep going. He chose to invest in that community rather than to ignore it,” the Obama letter read. “He set an example for young people to follow and is a legacy worth of celebration. I hope his memory inspires more good work in Crenshaw and communities like it. Michelle and I send our sympathies to Lauren, Emani, Kross and his whole family and to all those who love Nipsey.”
Father Thomas Uwal read a scripture in Tigrinya — the native language in Eritrea, the African country where Hussle’s father was from. Uwal spoke of Hussle being “proud to be an Eritrean-American,” later saying to the late rapper’s family: “On behalf of all Eritreans … we say our condolences to you.”
Books with an image of Hussle on the cover were handed out to service attendees. The book of nearly 100 pages contained numerous photos of Hussle with London, his children, and friends like Russell Westbrook and Snoop Dogg. It also had heartfelt messages from Rick Ross, The Game and LeBron James.
“I’ve never cried myself to sleep over any public figure before, but Nipsey’s presence meant so much for our community,” actress Issa Rae said in her message inside the book.
The hearse carrying Hussle’s coffin went through a 25-mile (40-kilometer) lap through the city, including past the property where Hussle had planned to turn an aging strip mall into new businesses and affordable homes.
Thousands of people crowded the streets, some on bicycles and motorcycles, following and surrounding the vehicle as it slowly wound its way to the funeral home. The silver Cadillac passed the rapper’s childhood home in Watts. It came to a halt at times, unable to move in the vast crowd of people.
Police kept an eye on the crowd, which appeared largely peaceful. At one point, people sat atop a police car spray-painted with the words: “Nips in Paradise.”
At one point during the procession, there was a brief stampede, apparently because of some kind of startling noise that may have been Mylar balloons popping. The Fire Department said several power lines were downed by the metalized balloons. There also were reports of people feeling unwell from the heat and the packed conditions. The Fire Department said it treated 15 people, including five who were taken to local hospitals.
There were reports of leg pain and dehydration but no reports of major injuries, fire officials said.
The hearse finally arrived Wednesday evening at a funeral home in the city’s hard-scrabble Crenshaw district, where the rapper was born on Aug. 15, 1985.
Hussle was shot to death March 31 while standing outside The Marathon, his South Los Angeles clothing store, not far from where the rapper grew up.
Eric R. Holder Jr., who has been charged with killing Hussle, has pleaded not guilty. Police have said Holder and Hussle had several interactions the day of the shooting and have described it as being the result of a personal dispute.
For a decade, Hussle released much sought-after mixtapes that he sold out of the trunk of his car, helping him create a buzz and gain respect from rap purists and his peers. His said his stage name, a play on the 1960s and ’70s rhyming standup comic Nipsey Russell, was given to him as a teen by an older friend because he was such a go-getter — always hustling.
Last year he hit new heights with “Victory Lap,” his critically acclaimed major-label debut album on Atlantic Records that made several critics’ best-of lists. The album debuted at No. 4 on Billboard’s 200 albums charts and earned him a Grammy nomination.
But the rapper was also a beloved figure for his philanthropic work that went well beyond the usual celebrity “giving back” ethos. Following his death, political and community leaders were as quick and effusive in their praise as his fellow hip-hop artists.
His family and friends vowed to continue his work, and London told the crowd: “The marathon continues!”
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Associated Press Writers Andrew Dalton, Amanda Myers and John Rogers contributed to this report.
Here are some of the great events going on this weekend for the entire family to enjoy. First of all, tonight at the Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club, check out the smooth sounds of Anthony David. Show time is 8pm.
On Saturday, it’s the The 2019 Emancipation Day Parade and Concert in Downtown DC. It’s free and open to public. The parade begins at 2pm down Pennsylvania Avenue followed by a free concert at Freedom Plaza featuring Faith Evans, Kenny Lattimore, Master Gee, Doug E. Fresh, and Sugar Bear. For more information go here:
It’s the end of an era, Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Farewell Tour is at the Theater at MGM National Harbor this weekend through Sunday.
And finally, The Musical Fairy Tale, “Into The Woods”is playing at the Ford’s Theatre through May 22nd. For details just go here:
Tune in to Taking it to the Streets, weekday mornings at 6:15, 7:08 and 8:35 on the Steve Harvey Morning Show on 96.3 WHUR.
Follow me on Facebook and twitter at @bobbygailes for updates and to stay connected.
In the entertainment culture of Rap and Hip-Hop, Hussle was known as a Grammy-nominated artist. But, outside of that, for many he was arguably not well-known. Yet in the weeks since his murder, the world has discovered the complex life and giving spirit of the 33-year-old born under the name Ermaias Joseph Asghedom. We look at his life and his legacy and the difficult lessons learned because of his untimely death.
Guests:
Jennifer Cunningham, Senior Editor of Exclusive News & Investigative Reporting, Interactive One
Wes Felton, Actor, Artist, Activist
Jacqueline Jackson, Black Culture & Media Studies Scholar
Attorney Michael Avenatti could face a sentence of 335 years in prison if convicted of charges in a 36-count federal indictment.
The indictment announced Thursday in Los Angeles alleges Avenattti stole millions of dollars from clients, didn’t pay taxes, committed bank fraud and lied during bankruptcy proceedings.
U.S. Attorney Nick Hanna says the four areas of alleged criminal conduct are all linked to each other because money generated from one set of alleged crimes appears in other sets of alleged crimes.
Officials say a private jet co-owned by Avenatti was seized Wednesday as part of the ongoing investigation.
Avenatti has tweeted denials of all the allegations and says he will plead not guilty.
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7:45 a.m.
The indictment filed against attorney Michael Avenatti alleges he stole millions of dollars from clients, did not pay his taxes, committed bank fraud and lied in bankruptcy proceedings.
Avenatti was indicted late Wednesday on the charges following his arrest in New York last month for allegedly trying to shake down Nike for up to $25 million.
The attorney best known for representing porn actress Stormy Daniels in lawsuits against President Donald Trump said Thursday he will plead not guilty.
The new charges say he embezzled from a paraplegic man and four other clients and shuffled money between several accounts to deceive them.
The charges also say Avenatti pocketed payroll taxes from employees of the Tully’s coffee chain that he owned.
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7:30 a.m.
Attorney Michael Avenatti says he will plead not guilty to a 36-count federal indictment filed against him in Southern California.
Avenatti tweeted Thursday that he intends to fight all of the charges and says he looks forward to the truth being known, as opposed to what he characterizes as a “one-sided version.”
A statement from prosecutors to news outlets says details of the case will be released Thursday morning by U.S. Attorney Nick Hanna and the Internal Revenue Service in Los Angeles.
The new charges follow Avenatti’s arrest in New York last month for allegedly trying to shake down Nike for up to $25 million and on two counts of wire and bank fraud from Southern California, where his firm is based.
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7:05 a.m.
Federal prosecutors say attorney Michael Avenatti has been charged in a 36-count federal indictment in Southern California.
A statement from prosecutors to news outlets says details of the case will be released Thursday morning by U.S. Attorney Nick Hanna and the Internal Revenue Service.
The new charges follow Avenatti’s arrest in New York last month for allegedly trying to shake down Nike for up to $25 million and on two counts of wire and bank fraud from Southern California, where his firm is based.
The attorney is best known for representing porn actress Stormy Daniels in lawsuits against President Donald Trump. Avenatti has said he expects to be cleared.
Bodies Found In DR Confirmed To Be Missing New York Couple
(Mount Vernon, NY) — Officials in the Dominican Republic are confirming they’ve found the bodies of a New York couple that went missing March 27th. Authorities believe Portia Ravenelle and her boyfriend Orlando Moore of Mount Vernon were involved in a car crash after checking out of their hotel on the island. Ravenelle initially survived the crash and was found unconscious on the side of the road without any identification. She died in a hospital on April 4th. Moore’s remains were found in the water, not far from where their rental car was found submerged.
Nene Leakes is looking for back up for season 12 of Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Atlanta. This season it was Nene versus everyone and it seems like she needs someone to lean on. She hopes that her friend, songstress Tamar Braxton, can join the drama filled cast next season.
According to TheJasmineBrand, if Leakes was in full control she would take peaches away from everyone to mix up the show.
“You know what I would do? I would take a peach from somebody that’s holding one that don’t need to hold one, that’s super boring, give it to somebody else, and mix it up… And half of the girls will be gone because they’re so boring chile. I think Tamarwould be a great addition. She’s entertaining, so she’s not boring… She’s got a lot to say, she’s opinionated. I’d love to see her come. I’d welcome her with open arms. Come to me Tamar!”
Tamar addressed the rumors on joining the cast of The Real Housewives of Atlanta with FOX5 while promoting her family’s show Braxton’s Family Values:
“I don’t know where [the rumors] came up. But no, it’s not true. There is a Tamarspin-off that’s coming. It’s showing my life the way that it is now. Everybody knows me being Vincent Herbert’s wife and him running my businesses and my career. Now it’s just me, and I’m excited to show that side of coming into myself and being the entrepreneur that I am.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXU049YmjaU
Tamar is also focusing on going on Kandi Burruss’ Welcome to the Dungeon tour on select dates. She announced it a view months ago via Instagram.
“@tamarbraxton Catch me performing LIVE this summer with my girl @kandi at the Welcome To The Dungeon Show. It’s going to be a show to remember, meet me at the Dungeon in your city! 💋💋💋💋”
As for Nene she has no problem expressing who she does and does not want to return next season. She says that she likes Phaedra and is even open to Kim Zolciak Biermann making a return to the show. In the meantime, she has currently unfollowed her current cast mates except Shamari DeVoe and Marlo Hampton. Nene will just have to deal with her current cast mates until it is announced otherwise.
Do you agree that the new season of The Real Housewives of Atlanta needs new cast members?
We’re giving you a chance to qualify to win a Five Day / Four Night Walt Disney World Vacation for Four! Complete with Theme Park Tickets, Resort Hotel Accommodations and much more. So listen every weekday morning at 9:15 during the Steve Harvey Morning Show for your chance to qualify for this Disney Dream Vacation of a Lifetime.
Color Me Courtney highlighted some of the great attractions at her favorite park, “Animal Kingdom”.
Cesar Avila talked about the new attractions at the different parks and how there’s something fun for both, children and adults to enjoy at Walt Disney World.
“I wanted to get my foot in the door,” she said. According to Harding, the bigger picture included, “On-court coaching opportunities. Other front-office opportunities. Other scouting opportunities.”
The Philadelphia 76ers hired former WNBA player Lindsey Harding as the team’s assistant coach. This is a record breaking move for the franchise because she will be the first woman to hold that position.
Harding worked her way up through the ranks. First she was a pro scout, then was promoted to player development coach. She is now the NBA’s seventh female assistant coach.
Harding spent last year working for the NBA’s Basketball Operations Associates Program. After the program’s completion, she interviewed with a few NBA teams with aspirations of having a front office and coaching role. “I wanted to get my foot in the door,” she said. According to Harding, the bigger picture included, “On-court coaching opportunities. Other front-office opportunities. Other scouting opportunities.”
Becky Hammon, and Natalie Nakase are also amongst the several women who transitioned from playing basketball to coaching in the NBA. Hammon, San Antonio’s assistant coach, advised Harding to pursue this career. The two women met four years ago while Harding worked as an assistant on the Toronto Raptors’ summer league coaching staff, while Hammon was the head coach of the Spurs’ summer league team.
I played against Becky for years,” Harding told ESPN. “During this last season, especially working in the front office [program] and going to games, I spent some time talking to her. She was always telling me, ‘You need to come. You need to come. We need more women here.’”
Sixers head coach, Brett Brown, is pleased with Harding’s new contributions to the organization. He told ESPN, “Having graduated from the NBA’s Basketball Operations Associates Program last season, Lindsey is applying the same grit and basketball IQ she used as a player in her move to the front office. We look forward to the work Lindsey will do to help grow our program and further solidify a culture of winning.”
Harding was the WNBA’s 2007 first round draft pick, selected by the Phoenix Mercury. In 2008, she was the second Duke women’s basketball player to have her jersey retired (10).
NEW YORK (AP) — No artist has more No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart than Mariah Carey, so it’s only fitting that the singer will receive the Icon Award at the 2019 Billboard Music Awards.
NBC and Dick Clark Productions announced Thursday that the Grammy-winning superstar will also perform at the May 1 event in Las Vegas.
Carey has 18 No. 1 hits, including “Vision of Love,” ″Hero,” ″Honey” and “We Belong Together.”
Her duet with Boyz II Men, “One Sweet Day,” spent 16 weeks at No. 1, making it the longest-running No. 1 hit on the Hot 100 chart. Luis Fonsi’s “Despacito” tied the feat in 2017.
Kelly Clarkson will host the Billboard Awards, and Panic at the Disco, Sam Smith and Normani will perform. Cardi B is the leader with 21 nominations.
The hearse carrying Hussle’s coffin from the Staples Center will then travel deep into the neighborhood where the deadly Rodney King race riot began in 1992 and on past the property where Hussle had planned to turn an aging strip mall into new businesses and affordable homes. Finally, it will arrive at a funeral home in the city’s hard-scrabble Crenshaw district, where the rapper was born on Aug. 15, 1985.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The life of rapper Nipsey Hussle will be remembered during a public memorial service Thursday that is expected to draw more than 20,000 people to the Staples Center, with thousands more paying their respects to the late rapper during a 25-mile procession through the city .
The Nipsey Hussle’s Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at the 21,000-seat downtown arena beginning at 10 a.m. No details have been released about dignitaries and celebrities who will attend, perform or speak. The event will be livestreamed on BET News’ Facebook page .
The hearse carrying Hussle’s coffin from the Staples Center will then travel deep into the neighborhood where the deadly Rodney King race riot began in 1992 and on past the property where Hussle had planned to turn an aging strip mall into new businesses and affordable homes. Finally, it will arrive at a funeral home in the city’s hard-scrabble Crenshaw district, where the rapper was born on Aug. 15, 1985.
Hussle was shot to death March 31 while standing outside The Marathon, his South Los Angeles clothing store, not far from where the rapper grew up. The store will be one of the places where Hussle’s casket passes during the procession through South Los Angeles.
Eric R. Holder Jr., who has been charged with killing Hussle, has pleaded not guilty. Police have said Holder and Hussle had several interactions the day of the shooting and have described it as being the result of a personal dispute.
The 33-year-old Grammy-nominated rapper, whose real name was Ermias Asghedom, was an Eritrean-American father of two who was engaged to actress Lauren London. He was a beloved figure for his philanthropic work that went well beyond the usual celebrity “giving back” ethos. Following his death, political and community leaders were as quick and effusive in their praise as his fellow hip-hop artists.
Hussle recently purchased the strip mall where The Marathon is located and planned to redevelop it into a mixed-use commercial and residential complex. The plan was part of Hussle’s broader ambitions to remake the neighborhood where he grew up and attempt to break the cycle of gang life that lured him in when he was younger.
For a decade, Hussle released much sought-after mixtapes that he sold out of the trunk of his car, helping him create a buzz and gain respect from rap purists and his peers. His said his stage name, a play on the 1960s and ’70s rhyming standup comic Nipsey Russell, was given to him as a teen by an older friend because he was such a go-getter — always hustling.
He charged $100 for his 2013 mixtape “Crenshaw,” scoring a cash and publicity coup when Jay-Z bought 100 copies for $10,000.
Last year he hit new heights with “Victory Lap,” his critically acclaimed major-label debut album on Atlantic Records that made several critics’ best-of lists. The album debuted at No. 4 on Billboard’s 200 albums charts and features collaborations with Kendrick Lamar and CeeLo Green.
It earned him a Grammy nomination, though he lost out to Cardi B’s “Invasion of Privacy.”
Hussle was also a wildly popular figure among professional athletes, especially those based in LA, where he was a regular on the sidelines. Players admired him for his community building.
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Associated Press Writer John Rogers contributed to this report.
MIAMI (AP) — Dwyane Wade’s wife was slapping his backside in celebration.
His oldest son, the heir to the Wade basketball throne, was on the Miami bench for the final minutes.
Former President Barack Obama sent a video. John Legend and Chrissy Teigen were courtside. The “M-V-P” chants rained down while Wade played, one more time, the last Miami steps in this season-long One Last Dance.
Wade’s final game in Miami was everything he wanted, and then some. He scored 30 points in the tribute-filled game, and the Heat sent him off a winner by defeating the Philadelphia 76ers 122-99 on Tuesday night. It was festive, all the way to the end, even though the Heat learned during the third quarter that they were eliminated from playoff contention.
“Wade County,” Wade shouted to the crowd after the game after he jumped up onto the courtside table where Heat managing general partner Micky Arison sits, one last time, one last celebration. “I love you.”
They loved him back. They have for 16 years. They will for 16 more, and 16 more after that, and 16 more after that, too.
“I’m still just amazed, even after all these years,” Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. “I’ve seen him go into his bag of tricks so many times and just compartmentalize. But I’m truly amazed that he was able to perform like that tonight.”
Bam Adebayo scored 19, Justise Winslow scored 16 and Hassan Whiteside added 15 for the Heat. The Heat were aware that Memphis had a big lead against Detroit, a must-win for the Grizzlies to keep Miami alive in the playoff race, but the Pistons rallied.
“It still was a beautiful night,” Spoelstra said.
Wade’s career will end Wednesday in Brooklyn, when Miami plays its regular-season finale. He checked out for the last time with 1:02 left, embracing teammates and his son Zaire — who was on the Heat bench.
Greg Monroe scored 18 points and Ben Simmons scored 16 for Philadelphia, which entered Tuesday already locked into the No. 3 seed for the Eastern Conference playoffs and rested Joel Embiid and J.J. Redick. Simmons played only 21 minutes, Tobias Harris shot 3 for 16 in 20 minutes and Jimmy Butler scored only four points in 16 minutes.
Butler did get one prize — he was the recipient of Wade’s final postgame jersey exchange with an opponent.
“Special, to see my brother get as much love as he deserves,” Butler said. “He’s one of the greatest to play this game and I’m so happy he gets to go out on his terms.”
Jonathon Simmons scored 14 for the 76ers, who knew they were witnessing Wade history.
“To see him be celebrated that way was the only positive of the night,” 76ers coach Brett Brown said.
Wade scored the first basket of the game on a dunk, Philadelphia scored the next eight — and it was all Miami the rest of the way. Winslow had three 3-pointers and Wade scored six points in a 22-2 Heat run that put Miami in control early, and the outcome was never in question again.
The final minutes were all Wade. He swished a 3-pointer. He banked in a pair of them. He got slapped on his backside by a fan — in this case, it was permitted, since the fan was his wife Gabrielle Union-Wade. He scored 14 of his points in that final quarter.
It was his night.
The game was the sideshow.
The 20,153 fans came to see him.
Wade did not disappoint, one last time.
“I’m the most thankful person in this city,” Wade said.
TIP-INS
76ers: This is the first time Philadelphia has posted consecutive seasons of 50 or more wins since 1984-85 and 1985-86. … Philadelphia missed 17 of its first 18 tries from 3-point range.
Heat: Udonis Haslem — also a three-time Heat champion, like Wade — played most of the fourth quarter with Wade. It took Haslem less than a minute to do one of the things he does best — take a charge. … Wade played in 575 games in a Heat uniform at home. Miami won 401 of them, and he scored 13,323 points in those contests.
McGRUDER DECISION
Miami will not be a tax team this year, saving about a $5 million payment because Rodney McGruder was claimed Tuesday by the Los Angeles Clippers — two days after he was waived by the Heat. If Miami had won at Toronto on Sunday, McGruder would likely still be with the Heat. “That was one of the tougher franchise moves our organization has had to make,” said Spoelstra, who raves about McGruder.
REST DAY
The 76ers plan to sit Embiid and Redick again Wednesday, and will also give Ben Simmons and Harris the night off. “Some people like to have a rhythm going into it, some people like to have time off. I don’t think you can appoint the perfect formula,” Brown said.
“It was definitely a hard process for me,” Young said. “I had to sit down, talk to my family, talk to Coach (Muffet) McGraw and make the best decision for me.”
NEW YORK (AP) — Jackie Young said it was a dream come true to be taken first in the WNBA draft.
The Notre Dame guard, who decided to enter the draft early and skip her senior season, was selected No. 1 by the Las Vegas Aces on Wednesday night.
“Since I was a little girl I always wanted to play in the WNBA and now I have my chance,” she said.
She’s the second Irish player to be drafted first after entering early joining Jewell Loyd, who had the honor in 2015.
It’s the third consecutive year the Aces have had the No. 1 pick. They took Kelsey Plum in 2017 when the franchise was still in San Antonio. The Aces then drafted A’ja Wilson last season with the No. 1 pick when the franchise moved to Las Vegas.
Young wasn’t thrilled that she didn’t have much time to make her decision after the Irish lost the championship game Sunday night to Baylor. She had 24 hours to decide whether she wanted to turn pro or go back to play for the Irish.
“It was definitely a hard process for me,” Young said. “I had to sit down, talk to my family, talk to Coach (Muffet) McGraw and make the best decision for me.”
Young was the first of five Notre Dame players to be drafted. Arike Ogunbowale went fifth to Dallas. Brianna Turner went 11th to the Atlanta Dream. She was later traded to the Phoenix Mercury for Marie Gulich. Jessica Shepard was taken 16th by the Minnesota Lynx. Marina Mabrey was the fifth Notre Dame player to go, drafted 19th by the Los Angeles Sparks.
“It’s a historic moment for our program,” Notre Dame coach Muffet McGraw said. “We’ve had a lot of accomplishments, but this one stands alone. It’s probably something that will never happen again. Because of the injury to Bri and Jess coming in, it’s atypical of having that kind of class. But it’s incredible what they accomplished.”
Tennessee is the only school to have that occur with college players, in 2008. Candace Parker was taken first. Alexis Hornbuckle was drafted fourth. Shannon Bobbitt and Nicky Anosike went back-to-back in the second round and Alberta Auguste was taken in the third round.
Asia Durr went second to the New York Liberty. The Louisville guard, who was a two-time AP All-American, was the No. 2 scorer in school history. The Indiana Fever then took Mississippi State center Teaira McCowan at No. 3. Chicago drafted a UConn player for the second consecutive season taking Katie Lou Samuelson fourth reconnecting her with former Huskies teammate Gabby Williams.
Another UConn player went sixth with Napheesa Collier headed to Minnesota. She could provide some help for the Lynx, who will be missing Maya Moore for the season as she sits out to focus more on things other than basketball. The Lynx had a busy draft taking Shepard and Cierra Dillard of Buffalo in the second round. They also traded Natisha Hiedeman, whom they drafted 16th to Connecticut for Lexie Brown. They drafted Kenisha Bell of Minnesota in the third round.
The Los Angeles Sparks took Baylor center Kalani Brown seventh. It’s been a whirlwind 72 hours for the 6-foot-7 center as she helped Baylor win a national championship on Sunday.
Australian Alanna Smith, who helped Stanford win the Pac-12 Tournament title was drafted eighth by Phoenix. The Mercury are coached by fellow Aussie Sandy Brondello. Kristine Anigwe went ninth to Connecticut. The Cal center, who led the nation in rebounding, was the national defensive player of the year. Washington took Kiara Leslie with the 10th pick and Ezi Magbegor closed out the opening round by going to defending champion Seattle.
Chinese sensation Han Xu was drafted 14th by the New York Liberty. The 6-foot-9 center became the first Chinese player drafted since 1997. There was some talk that Han wouldn’t be able to play this summer as she would have to compete for the Chinese national team. She said that she expected to play for New York this summer.
The WNBA season opens on May 24th with training camps opening up a few weeks earlier.
Prince George’s County Police responding to a call of a suspicious car made a bizarre discovery. Inside of the vehicle in the 3200 block of Ryan Drive in Suitland was an adult male. According to a police report, the victim suffered upper body trauma. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The victim’s identity has not been released. Police remain on the hunt for the person or people responsible. No other details have been released to the public at this time.
Follow me on Instagram and Twitter @taylorthomas963
Shocking arrest made in Black church fires in Louisiana ….
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Police in Opelousas, Louisiana have announced that an arrest has been made in three church fires at historic black churches in the St. Landry Parish community.
The suspect is a 21-year-old son of a St. Landry Parish Police Deputy. His name has not been released. U.S. Attorney David Joseph confirmed, “A suspect has been identified in connection with the three church burnings in Opelousas, Louisiana, and is in state custody.
The first fire was reported on March 26th at St. Mary Baptist Church in Port Barre. On the same day, Greater Union Church was set ablaze. Then on Thursday, Mount Pleasant Baptist Church in Opelousas was heavily damaged by fire. Thankfully no one was hurt in any of the fires.
U.S. Attorney Joseph says the FBI and AFT agents are continuing to work with state and local officials and the victims affected by the church burnings. A joint press conference with state and national law enforcement agencies are expected to take place later today.
Follow me on Instagram and Twitter @taylorthomas963
Parents of Makiyah Wilson set to file $30M lawsuit …
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The family of 10-year-old Makiyah Wilson who was shot and killed in July of 2018 are set to hold a press conference today. Sources say the family is going to sue the DC Housing Authority in connection with her murder.
The attorney for the family Brian McDaniel says there will be a news conference about the suit today. Initial reports state it will begin at 10:30. They plan to announce the filing of a $30 million dollar lawsuit against the agency in connection with her death.
Wilson’s shooting in her Clay Terrace Northeast community gripped the DMV. She was struck by gunfire running to an ice cream truck. The family’s lawyer says The DC Housing Authority failed them and the community.
It did not take police long to make several arrests in the case. In fact, seven people have been charged in her murder. Charged are Marquell Cobbs, Darrise Jeffers, Qujuan Thomas, Quentin Michals, Gregory Taylor and Mark Tee Price.
Follow me on Twitter and Instagram @taylorthomas963
“The stakes are high and reputations are on the line as everyone scrambles to meet expectations and deadlines. We follow along as individual personalities, group egos, personal conflicts and professional obligations all take center stage to discover whether or not the ladies can push it to greatness together,” the press release reads in part.
Hip Hop pioneers Salt-N-Pepa, DJ Spinderella, and R&B legends SWV will be returning to television in a new BET reality series, Ladies Night.
Ladies Night is a series that will follow the trailblazing artists through all the triumph and drama that goes on behind the scenes of their Las Vegas residency show. Ladies Night will be a national tour in collaboration with SWV.
Salt-N-Pepa, aka Cheryl James and Sandra Denton,is recognized as one of the best-selling female hip-hop acts of all time. With their classic hit’s “Push It”, “Expression”, “Shoop”, and “Whatta Man”, they are also Grammy award-winning artists.
SWV became one of the most successful female R&B groups with hits like “Right Here”, “Weak”, and “Rain”.
There’s no 90s R&B playlist without these iconic artists of the time. Salt-N-Pepa had their own reality show entitled The Salt-N-Pepa Show that aired on VH1 in 2007.
“The stakes are high and reputations are on the line as everyone scrambles to meet expectations and deadlines. We follow along as individual personalities, group egos, personal conflicts and professional obligations all take center stage to discover whether or not the ladies can push it to greatness together,” the press release reads in part.
The series Ladies Night starting Tuesday, April 30 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT on BET.
“Our hope is that it will have an impact on reducing the stigma and allowing people to know that they are not alone, allowing people to speak up about it and being able to identify it for themselves and in their friends,” Winfrey said.
Prince Harryand Oprah Winfrey are teaming up together to make a documentary series about mental health for Apple. The two philanthropists are tackling a multi-part television series to combat the issue.
The goal of this documentary is to spark inspiration to viewers and have an honest conversation about the challenges each of us face.
Winfrey has much experience in television through her own TV network, OWN and her long-time running show, The Oprah Winfrey Show. Winfrey has also produced alongside Ava DuVernay in Queen Sugar and 13th. Even with a child on the way, Prince Harry has devoted much of his time to the communities in the UK, where his main focus is spreading the message of mental health.
“His Royal Highness has spent many years working with communities throughout the UK and young people across the Commonwealth to break the stigma surrounding mental illness and broaden the conversation of mental wellness to accelerate change for a more compassionate, connected and positive society.”, which The Duke and Duchess of Sussex quoted on Instagram.
Winfrey is more than delighted to be partnering with Prince Harry in efforts to shed a light on mental health issues and change some lives. The team held secret meetings in London to pull the project together, she said.
“Our hope is that it will have an impact on reducing the stigma and allowing people to know that they are not alone, allowing people to speak up about it and being able to identify it for themselves and in their friends,” Winfrey said.
Prince Harry previously launched the “Heads Together” mental health campaign in 2017 alongside his brother, Prince William. The campaign leads a coalition of mental health charities in order to provide support for people affected by mental illness, along with raising awareness and tackling stigma.
The series would air on Apple TV in 2020 which is co-created and produced by Winfrey and the Duke of Sussex.
Elected leaders get an earful from residents as they walk along DC and PG border.
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Washington, D.C. (Tuesday, April 10th) – D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks put on their walking shoes Tuesday to take an afternoon stroll through communities that are facing similar challenges in each jurisdiction.
Surrounded by government employees from both DC and Prince George’s, Bowser and Alsobrooks held a press conference at the Marvin Gaye Community Center at the corner of Eastern Avenue and 61st Street, NE to discuss their shared interest in combating quality of life issues in their respective hometowns. “We speak frequently and work together diligently to address the issues that effect the residents of Prince George’s and Washington, D.C.,” said Bowser. Both jurisdictions have been seeing an uptick in illegal dumping and litter. D.C. has installed cameras in targeted areas of the city to especially catch businesses in the act for dumping things like tires.
Similar actions are in place in Prince George’s County. Both leaders got an eyeful seeing some of the trash problems first hand while DPW workers picked up the litter during the walk.
“The two hometown girls are having the opportunity to represent our jurisdictions and we have done so with love and energy,” said Alsobrooks. After the press conference, the two elected leaders walked along Eastern Avenue, NE talking with residents.
Most residents were happy to see government in their neighborhood and elated at a chance to share their community concerns with officials. While a few angry residents shouted at Bowser and Alsobrooks accusing them of “only playing to the media.”
Along the walk, Bowser and Alsobrooks heard and saw an almost kinship of problems and concerns as they moved from Ward 7 in the District into Seat Pleasant in Prince George’s County. There was plenty of litter, illegal dumping, abandoned and dilapidated properties, uncut grass, evidence of illegal drug use, and complaints about prostitution.
The walk has been a monthly staple of the Bowser administration. The mayor brings representativse from the various branches of the city government. Alsobrooks, who has been in office less than six months, vowed that she will begin holding similar walks on a monthly basis in Prince George’s County.
She is an icon and a trailblazer in American journalism. Dorothy Butler Gilliam is the first black woman hired as a reporter for The Washington Post. During our Women Wednesday conversation, we sit down with her to talk about her amazing career and journalism… then and now.
SACRAMENTO, CA — A grieving mother choked up as she questioned why police didn’t use other tactics instead of killing her son. A deputy recalled the terror of second-guessing herself as she traded fire with a suspect who killed her partner.
The emotional testimony Tuesday came before California lawmakers advanced a first-in-the-nation measure restricting when police can use deadly force, one of two radically different legislative proposals seeking to cut down on deadly shootings in the nation’s most populous state.
The measure faces a tougher fight in the full Assembly. Even some supporters on the public safety committee said it goes too far and will require changes as lawmakers try to balance the safety of officers and those they’re tasked with protecting.
Last year’s police shooting of unarmed vandalism suspect Stephon Clark in Sacramento inspired the legislation that would allow officers to kill only if there is no reasonable alternative, such as verbal persuasion or other non-lethal methods of resolution or de-escalation.
“It’s time to make clear that the sanctity of human life is policing’s highest priority,” said Democratic Assemblywoman Shirley Weber of San Diego, adding later that her proposal “is designed to change the culture of policing in California.”
The committee’s chairman, Democratic Assemblyman Reggie Jones-Sawyer of Los Angeles, said a tougher standard will do little good without buy-in from law enforcement organizations.
Those groups are supporting a different plan, which is also before lawmakers, to require that every department have policies on when officers should use de-escalation tactics and other alternatives to deadly force.
Weber’s measure got party-line support. The eight-member panel’s two Republicans opposed the measure they said could make officers hesitate for a fatal second if they have to consider alternatives to lethal force.
That’s what Sacramento County Deputy Sheriff Julie Robertson faced. She testified how her partner, Mark Stasyuk, died last fall during a gunfight and she hesitated as the suspect shot at her with only his back exposed.
“I recall in that moment thinking that if I were to shoot him in the back, I would be the next officer in the news being scrutinized for my actions,” Robertson said. “The thought of having to second-guess my actions in that moment is frightening. … This bill makes me wonder if sacrificing everything is worth it.”
Elizabeth Medrano Escobedo told lawmakers that Los Angeles officers could have used other tactics instead of killing her son, Christian Escobedo, last year. Police said he was sleeping behind a parked car with a loaded handgun.
“This bill can save mothers from grieving the loss of their children, which is what I’m experiencing right now,” Medrano said, choking up.
Ciara Hamilton testified how Barstow police killed her cousin, Diante Yarber, last year after they said the car theft suspect hit two squad cars and nearly struck an officer. His family says the car was barely moving and that Yarber, who was black, might have lived had officers provided immediate medical attention.
“What does that tell us about policing in California and America? It’s that black and brown people are not safe from state-sanctioned violence,” Hamilton said.
The debate resonated personally for lawmakers.
Democratic Assemblywoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove of Los Angeles tearfully recounted finding four officers in her home responding to a false burglar alarm last fall. They treated her respectfully, yet Kamlager-Dove, who is black, said she started shaking and crying.
“And I realized I was crying because I was afraid. I didn’t want to make any sudden movements,” she said.
Kamlager-Dove broke down as she urged police organizations and reformers to reach consensus “because this hurts. … I don’t want any of us to live in fear.”
Republican Assemblyman Tom Lackey of Palmdale, who spent 28 years as a highway patrolman, recalled how a fellow officer killed someone in the line of duty and eventually ended his own life.
“When peace officers are placed in a position to where they feel like they have to use deadly force, no one can really understand that unless you’ve been in that position,” Lackey said.
Plumas County Sheriff’s Deputy Ed Obayashi, a use-of-force expert, called Weber’s measure “an exercise in legal futility” because he predicts judges will interpret the language the same way they do court rulings. Prosecutors would have to prove an officer was criminally negligent, which carries a high legal burden.
Weber acknowledges officers would have to egregiously violate a policy to face charges but expects the standard would deter shootings.
A Senate committee is expected to consider a police-backed alternative in two weeks. That measure would enshrine court standards into law, allowing officers to use deadly force when they have a reasonable fear of being harmed. The standard has made it rare for officers to be charged and rarer still to be convicted.
Law enforcement groups plan to amend the legislation “to ensure that we are truly putting forward the most comprehensive legislative solution to effectively reduce the use of force in our state,” California Police Chiefs Association president Ron Lawrence said.
WASHINGTON — Attorney General William Barr declared Wednesday he thinks “spying did occur” on Donald Trump’s presidential campaign, suggesting the origins of the Russia investigation may have been mishandled and aligning himself with the president at a time when Barr’s independence is under scrutiny.
Barr, appearing before a Senate panel, did not say what “spying” had taken place but seemed likely to be alluding to a surveillance warrant the FBI obtained on a Trump associate. He later said he wasn’t sure there had been improper surveillance but wanted to make sure proper procedures were followed. Still, his remarks give a boost to Trump and his supporters who insist his 2016 campaign was unfairly targeted by the FBI.
Barr was testifying for a second day at a congressional budget hearing that was dominated by questions about special counsel Robert Mueller’s Trump-Russia investigation. His comments risked inflaming Democratic concerns that Barr’s views are overly in sync with Trump’s and that he’s determined to protect the president as he readies the release of a version of Mueller’s report.
Barr said he expects to release a redacted copy of the report next week. Democrats have expressed concern that his version will conceal wrongdoing by the president and are frustrated by the four-page summary letter he released last month that they say paints Mueller’s findings in an overly favorable way for the president.
Democrats immediately seized on Barr’s testimony.
House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., tweeted that Barr’s comments “directly contradict” what the Justice Department previously had said, and he said he had requested a briefing from the department. House intelligence committee Chairman Adam Schiff, D-Calif., said Barr’s comments were sure to please Trump, “but it also strikes another destructive blow to our democratic institutions.”
Republicans, meanwhile, praised Barr for looking into the matter. North Carolina Rep. Mark Meadows, a confidant to Trump who has raised concerns about Justice Department conduct for the past two years, tweeted that Barr’s willingness to investigate it is “massive.”
Barr, who was nominated to his post by Trump four months ago, was asked about spying by Republican Sen. Jerry Moran. He said that though he did not have specific evidence of wrongdoing, “I do have questions about it.”
“I think spying on a political campaign is a big deal,” Barr said.
Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen asked him directly if he believed spying on the campaign occurred, and he said, “Yes I think spying did occur. The question is whether it was adequately predicated” — meaning whether it was legally justified.
Barr said he was reviewing his department’s actions in investigating Trump. A separate investigation is being conducted by the Justice Department inspector general into the early days of the FBI’s Russia probe, which Barr said he expects to conclude sometime around May or June.
“I feel that I have an obligation to ensure government power was not abused,” Barr said.
Asked again about spying at the end of the hearing, Barr tempered his tone. “I am not saying improper surveillance occurred. I am saying I am concerned about it, and I am looking into it,” he said.
Barr’s reference to “spying” may refer to a secret surveillance warrant that the FBI obtained in the fall of 2016 to monitor the communications of former Trump campaign aide Carter Page, who has not been charged with any wrongdoing and has denied being a Russian spy.
That warrant included a reference to research that was conducted by an ex-British spy who was funded by Democrats to look into Trump’s ties to Russia.
Critics of the Russia investigation say the warrant on Page was unjustified and have also seized on anti-Trump text messages sent and received by one of the lead agents involved in investigating whether the Trump campaign was colluding with Russia.
At the White House on Wednesday, Trump repeated his claim that the investigation was illegal.
“It was started illegally. Everything about it was crooked. Every single thing about it. There were dirty cops,” he said.
He falsely claimed that the Mueller report had found “no obstruction.” While the four-page letter released by Barr said the special counsel did not find a criminal conspiracy between Russia and Trump associates around the time of the 2016 election, it also said Mueller had presented evidence on both sides of the obstruction question and ultimately did not reach a conclusion on it.
Barr said he did not believe the evidence in the report was sufficient to prove the president had obstructed justice. Democrats said they were concerned that Barr’s letter portrayed the investigation’s findings in an overly favorable way for Trump.
Barr’s statement Wednesday that he expected to release a redacted version of Mueller’s nearly 400-page report next week marked a slight change from the estimate he gave Tuesday, when he said the release would be within a week.
Though he said the document will be redacted to withhold negative information about peripheral figures in the investigation, he said that would not apply to Trump, who is an officeholder and central to the probe.
T-Mobile reverses decision to allow MetroPCS to play go-go music outside of NW, DC store
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Washington, D.C. (Wednesday, April 10, 2019) – After weeks of silence, the music is back on at the MetroPCS Store at the corner of 7th Street and Florida Avenue, NW. DC Community Activist Ron Moten made the announcement at a 12p.m. press conference today as supporters crowded around to the sounds of Chuck Brown blasting in the background. Over the past several days, a ground swell of support formed to denounce a decision by T-Mobile, the parent company of the MetroPCS Store, to shut off the music. The backlash formed on social media with the #dontmutedc, which was started by a Howard University student.
“I’m happy to say that it wasn’t just Black people who came together. It was everybody who came together to say we got to do the right thing for the right reasons to get the right results to address the issue of gentrification,” said Moten. Don Campbell, the owner of Central Communications, a MetroPCS vendor, had been playing the go-go music outside of the store for nearly 25 years. “I want to thank everybody for helping to get the music back on. Now, we just want to get back to selling cellphones and CDs, Campbell said.
The #dontmutedc campaign even had local politicians, including Mayor Muriel Bowser, Ward One Councilmember Brianne Nadeau and At-Large Councilmember Robert White weighing in on social media and working behind the scenes to get T-Mobile to reverse its decision. While activists are happy that things can return to normal at the corner of 7th and Florida Avenue, they vow the fight is far from over. “Black businesses are under attack by gentrifiers. They move into our community like they have good intentions and once they come in they try to push us out.” Moten added. A townhall meeting is planned for later this week to address gentrification and a Go-go Celebration will be held Saturday at the store.
It was a complaint from a nearby neighbor at one of the luxury apartments that propelled T-Mobile into action to force MetroPCS to shut-off the music late last month. Here’s the press conference announcement in its entirety with WHUR’s News Anchor Taylor Thomas.
LONDON (AP) — Special plans are being made to welcome the first child of Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex.
Officials said Wednesday that the landmark London Eye observation wheel on the banks of the River Thames will be lit in red, white and blue to mark the baby’s birth. Those are the colors of the familiar Union Flag.
The baby is expected in late April or early May. He or she will be seventh in line for the British throne.
Harry and Meghan say they have chosen not to learn the baby’s gender.
The royal couple are moving shortly from central London to a quieter location near Windsor Castle, some 20 miles (32 kilometers) west of London. They married in May in a chapel on the castle grounds.
“I want to go back to having fun,” Johnson said, fighting off tears. “I want to go back to being who I was before taking on this job. We’re halfway there with LeBron coming (last summer). I think this summer, with that other star coming in, whoever is going to bring him in, I think this team is really going to be in position to contend for a championship with the growth of the young players.”
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Magic Johnson abruptly quit as the Los Angeles Lakers’ president of basketball operations Tuesday night, citing his desire to return to the simpler life he enjoyed as a wealthy businessman and beloved former player before taking charge of this tempestuous franchise just over two years ago.
Johnson didn’t tell owner Jeanie Buss or general manager Rob Pelinka about his shocking decision before he announced it in front of reporters about 90 minutes before the final game of the Lakers’ sixth consecutive losing season.
Los Angeles, which is missing the NBA playoffs yet again despite the offseason addition of LeBron James, played well after Johnson’s announcement, but still lost 104-101 to Portland.
“I want to go back to having fun,” Johnson said, fighting off tears. “I want to go back to being who I was before taking on this job. We’re halfway there with LeBron coming (last summer). I think this summer, with that other star coming in, whoever is going to bring him in, I think this team is really going to be in position to contend for a championship with the growth of the young players.”
Johnson didn’t directly tie his decision to the future of Luke Walton, but the third-year coach was widely expected to be fired by Johnson. Without using names, Johnson repeatedly mentioned Buss’ affinity for Walton, who was in place before Johnson got his job in February 2017, and Johnson’s desire not to cause upheaval between the owner and her chosen coach.
″(On Wednesday) I would have to affect somebody’s livelihood and their life,” Johnson said. “And I thought about it and I said, ‘That’s not fun for me. That’s not who I am.’ And then I don’t want to put her in the middle of us, even though she said, ‘Hey, you can do what you want to do.’ I know she has great love for him and great love for me.”
Johnson and Buss had a three-hour meeting Monday about the direction of the 16-time NBA champion Lakers, who haven’t made the postseason since 2013. Magic claimed he didn’t finalize his decision until Tuesday morning.
“Somebody is going to have to tell my boss, because I know she’s going to be sick,” Johnson said. “But I knew I couldn’t face her face-to-face and tell her.”
Buss didn’t attend the Lakers’ season finale, although Johnson waited by the executive parking area at Staples Center in hopes of seeing her. Buss tweeted her reaction at halftime.
“Earvin, I loved working side by side with you,” Buss wrote. “You’ve brought us a long way. We will continue the journey. We love you.”
Walton, who is 98-148 in three seasons, refused to say much about Johnson’s announcement after the loss to Portland: “I found out when you guys did. It was 80 minutes before the game … and I haven’t had any time to really process it.”
Clearly blindsided by Johnson’s announcement, the Lakers also issued a team statement at halftime.
“There is no greater Los Angeles Laker than Earvin Johnson,” it said. “We are deeply grateful to Magic for all that he has done for our franchise as a player, an ambassador and an executive. … He will always be not only a Lakers icon, but our family. As we begin the process of moving forward, we will work in a measured and methodical fashion to make the right moves for the future of our organization.”
Johnson’s desire for his old life wasn’t the only reason for his departure. He also said he is tired of being investigated or fined by the NBA for tampering when he comments on basketball on Twitter or even speaks to another organization’s player.
Johnson, a longtime broadcaster and respected basketball figure before moving into the front office, has been investigated four times for tampering after everything from a joking comment about Paul George on Jimmy Kimmel’s talk show to his response to an email sent to him by Philadelphia’s Ben Simmons.
“I thought about Dwyane Wade retiring (Wednesday), and I can’t even tweet that out or be there,” Johnson said. “Serena Williams called me a week ago and said, ‘Will you mentor me and be on my advisory board?’ And I said, ‘Yeah, I’m going to do that.’ So when Ben Simmons called and we went through the proper channels and they made me look like the bad guy out of that situation, but I didn’t do anything wrong … I was thinking about all those times, all those guys who want me to mentor them or be a part of their lives, and I can’t even do that. I had more fun on the other side.”
Johnson, who will turn 60 in August, also has many thriving business interests along with ownership stakes in the Los Angeles Dodgers and Los Angeles FC.
Johnson’s sudden decision ends another chapter in the remarkable life of the star point guard from Lansing, Michigan, who won an NCAA championship at Michigan State before claiming five NBA titles and three league MVP awards during his 12-year playing career as the leader of the Showtime Lakers.
Johnson retired in 1991 after he tested positive for HIV, but later returned briefly to the Lakers as a player and a coach. Johnson says his current health is ideal, and he insists no health concerns were part of his decision to quit the job that seemed to be his ultimate destiny.
Johnson was hired along with Pelinka when Buss dismissed her brother, Jim, and GM Mitch Kupchak just 26 months ago. The Buss children’s father, Jerry, had long envisioned Johnson in a powerful role in the Lakers’ front office, and Jeanie put Magic in charge of shaking up her storied franchise in decline.
Immediately after taking the job, Johnson stated his plan to land at least two free-agent superstars to return the Lakers to immediate title contention. That plan rankled feelings around the league and got him in trouble when he publicly acknowledged the Lakers’ interest in George, which led to an investigation that eventually stuck the Lakers with a $500,000 fine for Pelinka making improper contact with George’s agent.
Johnson made several personnel moves to clear salary cap space for his ultimate goal, notably trading guard D’Angelo Russell to Brooklyn largely to rid the Lakers of Timofey Mozgov’s onerous contract in 2017.
Johnson also criticized Russell for his maturity and playing style on the way out the door, but Russell has blossomed into an All-Star leader for the playoff-bound Nets. Some of Johnson’s other moves have worked out much better, including the Lakers’ drafting of Lonzo Ball, the acquisition of Kyle Kuzma and the bargain signing of center JaVale McGee.
And though James was in charge of his decision to join the Lakers last summer, LeBron credited Magic with closing the deal in a meeting before he agreed to a four-year contract.
But after James strained his groin at Christmas and subsequently sat out for the longest injury absence of his 16-year NBA career, the Lakers were unable to compile enough midseason wins to stay in playoff contention. The Lakers also slumped before the trade deadline when Johnson aggressively pursued disgruntled New Orleans superstar Anthony Davis in a trade that would have required the Lakers to give up much of their talented young core.
James was shut down for the season late last month, and he watched the Lakers’ season finale in street clothes on the bench. He wasn’t available to reporters after the game.
The Lakers have missed the postseason in each of their three springs since Johnson and Pelinka took over, and Magic didn’t stick around long enough to see whether his plan would yield another free-agent star this summer — when the likes of Kawhi Leonard and Kevin Durant should be in play — or next, when Davis should be available.
The Lakers compiled their best record in six years this season, but were eliminated from playoff contention by Russell’s Nets back on March 22. Los Angeles had never missed the playoffs in more than two consecutive seasons before this six-year drought.
Johnson remained publicly supportive of Walton, but Magic also was widely known to agree with Walton’s detractors who aren’t impressed by his offensive game planning and rotations. Johnson’s decision to step down likely means the Lakers won’t make a decision on Walton’s future until a new front office is in place.
Johnson and Pelinka, Kobe Bryant’s former agent, didn’t know each other before they were paired by Buss, but Johnson said he worked well with Pelinka. Johnson also pointedly refused to say whether Pelinka should remain as the Lakers’ general manager, saying the decision rested solely with Buss, whom he repeatedly called “my sister.”
“She doesn’t know I’m standing here,” Johnson said. “Because I knew I would be crying like a baby in front of her.”
Spring is upon us and it’s time to take your promise to get fit in 2019 seriously. I have a fun free opportunity for you to GET FIT 4SPRING with WHUR’s and NBC4’s very own Molette Green. She’s doing a free Boot Camp Class this Friday in Prince George’s County.
Get Fit 4 Spring Free Boot Camp Class Friday, April 12th@ 5:30am at Westphalia Community Center @ 89-hundred Westphalia Road.
Tune in to Taking it to the Streets, weekday mornings at 6:15, 7:08 and 8:35 on the Steve Harvey Morning Showon 96.3 WHUR.
Follow me on facebook and twitter at @bobbygailes for updates and to stay connected.
The two leaders plan to join in a united front to pull their resources together to improve the lives of residents in that area. The focus is on a growing number of illegal dumping, sex work and infrastructure issues along the Eastern Avenue corridor.
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Today at 4, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks are going to hold a joint news conference and community walk. The community walk will take place on Eastern Avenue which borders the DC line on one side and Prince George’s County on the other side. It will start in the District’s Ward 7 and end in Prince George’s County.
The two leaders plan to join in a united front to pull their resources together to improve the lives of residents in that area. The focus is on a growing number of illegal dumping, sex work and infrastructure issues along the Eastern Avenue corridor.
Follow me on Instagram and Twitter @taylorthomas963
One person has died and 6 others were injured in a 6:30 a.m. crash in Clinton, Maryland. The unidentified victim was a female. Police say the school bus was going Southbound on Branch Avenue near Surratts Road when the collision happened. Other vehicles were involved.
The dump truck which flipped on its side ended up on top of a blue car. The female in that vehicle is the one fatality. EMS officials say that person will have to be extracted. The bus driver and two students were taken to the hospital with non life threatening injures. Two other refused medical attention. The school bus was in route to Charles H. Flowers High School. No information about the victim’s identities have been released.
Follow me on Instagram and Twitter @taylorthomas963
DC native and community activist Ron Moten is planning to hold a Noon conference to discuss the latest involving the owner of Metro PCS from playing Go Go music outside. It’s something store owner Don Campbell has been doing now for more than 24 years.
Last night a large crowd of supporters held a rally outside of his store at 7th Street and Florida Avenue. They are calling on city leaders to help and for T mobile to not take away their tradition.
The owner of Central Communications says that a few residents of a new luxury high rise have threaten to sue if Metro PCS didn’t stop playing Go Go music outside of the store. City Council members like Robert White have even come out in support. Last night he appeared on The Daily Drum and he said the issue can be resolved without involving government. He said he felt that T mobile responded too quickly and swiftly against the store owner. He commented that T mobile should have reached out to city leaders before rushing to judgement and forcing the change.
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Activists continue draw attention to the issue of Go-Go music being silenced in the Shaw community. Tuesday night a rally was held at 14th and U Streets… the heart of the entertainment district. For the first time in nearly 25 years you don’t hear Go-Go outside at 7th street and Florida Avenue, NW. Don Campbell, the owner of the Central Communications store… also known as the Metro PCS store was forced to stop playing DC’s homegrown musical genre last month. We’re looking at the issue and what it means.
Guests:
Ron Moten, DC Community ActivistRobert White, Jr., DC Councilmember-At-Large
Kay-Kay, Daughter of Go-Go icon Chuck Brown & member of The Chuck Brown Band
Supporters of Go-Go vow to fight T-Mobile over its decision to force MetroPCS to mute their beloved music.
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Washington, D.C. (Tuesday, April 9, 2018) – The District of Columbia maybe the birthplace of Go-Go Music but when it comes to playing the beloved genre outside a popular MetroPCS Store in the city’s Shaw community, it’s a no go. T-Mobile has silenced MetroPSC from blasting the music outside its store at 1915 7th Street, NW. That decision has sparked a movement across DC with many calling on T-Mobile to #DontMuteDC. The hashtag has been trending on Twitter across the city. Store owner Don Campbell tells WHUR he turned down the music late last month after a directive from T-Mobile, which owns MetroPCS. “I was told that I had to bring the speaker inside the store because a neighbor from a nearby luxury apartment had complained and was threatening to sue,” said Campbell.
News of the T-Mobile decision has sparked outrage across the DMV from those who have walked past the store for more than two-decades and have enjoyed the music. There’s also an on-line petition started by community activist Ron Moten. In the meantime, numerous rallies are planned over the next few days to engage the community on the growing #DontMuteDC movement, which many believe is just another impact of the gentrification. “I remember walking down Florida Avenue when I was 8-years-old and you would just see people stop in their tracks and start dancing,” said Alonzo who lives in SE. Alonzo did not want to give his last name. But said he now lives in SE and was shocked to learn of the muting of Go-Go. I don’t understand how these ‘new people’ can move into DC and constantly try to change the culture,” added Alonzo.
WHUR’s Taylor Thomas went to the MetroPSC store to hear directly from the people.
#DontMuteDC Rally Wednesday @ 12pm outside the MetroPCS Store. Store Owner Don Campbell says he’s been overwhelmed by the support.
“DC Police say they have not had any recent complaints about noise coming from MetroPSC and officials from the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs says there has been less than five complaints over the past decade, leaving many to wonder why one complaint from a nearby neighbor would force such drastic action by T-Mobile,”added Campbell.
Contributed by Nia Seaton
On Saturday, it’s the The 2019 Emancipation Day Parade and Concert in Downtown DC. It’s free and open to public. The parade begins at 2pm down Pennsylvania Avenue followed by a free concert at Freedom Plaza featuring Faith Evans, Kenny Lattimore, Master Gee, Doug E. Fresh, and Sugar Bear. For more information go
Police in Opelousas, Louisiana have announced that an arrest has been made in three church fires at historic black churches in the St. Landry Parish community.
The family of 10-year-old Makiyah Wilson who was shot and killed in July of 2018 are set to hold a press conference today. Sources say the family is going to sue the DC Housing Authority in connection with her murder.
“The two hometown girls are having the opportunity to represent our jurisdictions and we have done so with love and energy,” said Alsobrooks. After the press conference, the two elected leaders walked along Eastern Avenue, NE talking with residents.
hat she will begin holding similar walks on a monthly basis in Prince George’s County.
Today at 4, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks are going to hold a joint news conference and community walk. The community walk will take place on Eastern Avenue which borders the DC line on one side and Prince George’s County on the other side. It will start in the District’s Ward 7 and end in Prince George’s County.
One person has died and 6 others were injured in a 6:30 a.m. crash in Clinton, Maryland. The unidentified victim was a female. Police say the school bus was going Southbound on Branch Avenue near Surratts Road when the collision happened. Other vehicles were involved.
DC native and community activist Ron Moten is planning to hold a Noon conference to discuss the latest involving the owner of Metro PCS from playing Go Go music outside. It’s something store owner Don Campbell has been doing now for more than 24 years.
