According to NBC, Daniel Penny was acquitted of criminally negligent homicide in the chokehold death of Jordan Neely, a homeless man with mental illness, on a New York City subway train.
The jury deadlocked on the more serious charge of manslaughter, leading to its dismissal. Penny could have faced up to four years in prison.
The case sparked debates on safety in the subway system, homelessness, and mental illness, with opinions divided along political and racial lines. Prosecutors argued that Penny’s actions were reckless and unjustified, while his defense claimed he acted to protect passengers.
Dafna Yoran, an assistant prosecutor with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, in her closing argument, said, “You obviously cannot kill someone because they are crazy and ranting and looking menacing.”
“No matter what it is that they are saying.” She also said that Penny “could have easily restrained” Neely “without choking him to death.”
The cold weather is upon us and that typically means higher gas bills. My guest this morning has information you need to know to help keep you warm and assist those who may need help managing their energy bills.My guest this morning is Michelle Musgrove – Vice President of the Customer Group @ Washington Gas
Washington Gas Cares programs include numerous ways to help families manage their energy bills, from financial energy assistance programs and payments arrangements to convenient budgeting. For more information go here: www.washingtonascares.com
According to CNN Hip-hop mogul Sean “Jay-Z” Carter has been named in lawsuit with Sean “Diddy” Combs for allegedly sexually assaulting a 13 year-old girl in 2000.
The lawsuit reports, the Doe’s attorneys reached out to Carter to request “a mediation to resolve this matter.”
“Upon present information and belief, Jay-Z responded to said letter by not only filing an utterly frivolous lawsuit, but by also orchestrating a conspiracy of harassment, bullying and intimidation against Plaintiff’s lawyers, their families, employees and former associates in an attempt to silence Plaintiff from naming Jay-Z herein. This effort was meant to scare Plaintiff and to discredit her counsel. That effort failed. Indeed, Plaintiff chose to file this amendment as a result of the egregious conduct perpetuated by Carter,” according to the lawsuit.
Carter responded to CNN in a statement says it’s a “blackmail attempt.” Carter also mentioned this lawyer, “who I have done a bit of research on, seems to have a pattern of these type of theatrics!”
“My wife and I will have to sit our children down, one of whom is at the age where her friends will surely see the press and ask questions about the nature of these claims, and explain the cruelty and greed of people. I mourn yet another loss of innocence. Children should not have to endure such at their young age,” he added.
Are you looking for a forever pet? Montgomery County Animal Services and Adoption Center is waiving adoption fees December 14th and 15th . www.montgomerycountymd.gov/animalservices
Museum Events
Take in thought provoking and culturally enriching events this December. Come out to the Banneker-Douglas-Tubman Museum for inspiring programs and exhibits. www.bdmuseum.maryland.gov/exhibitions
Elder Services
Learn about services and resources for older residents in Montgomery county. Attend a free event December 15th at Bannockburn Community Center in Bethesda. 240-777-3000
Girls Basketball
Enjoy some holiday hoops. The 2nd Annual Tuscarora IAABO Girls Varsity High School Holiday Tournament is December 27th and 28th at Frederick Community College. www.iaabo214.org
Holiday Project
Experience the true spirit of Christmas. The Holiday Project is in need of volunteers to visit residents, hospitals, and long-term care facilities this holiday season. www.holidayproject.net
Homebuying
Manna Homes is hosting a holiday edition of homebuying as part of its East of the River Homebuyer Club Meeting this month. www.mannahomes.org/hoc
College Scholarships
The Prince George’s County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America College Scholarships Application process is now underway. It’s open to graduating seniors in the county. www.pgcjackandjill.org
WHUR Community’s Choice
To get your non-profit on the air and web, email Renee Nash at rnash@whur.com at least three weeks before your event.
It’s been reported that police were called when witnesses recognized the suspect in Altoona, Pennsylvania.
The suspect was seen Monday at a McDonald’s on 407 East Plank Road at 9:15 a.m., while traveling on the Greyhound Bus.
There is no known motive, as this story continues to develop.
ORIGINAL POST: December 7, 2024 9:52 am
Who Was UnitedHealthcare CEO Shooting Suspect On The Phone With Moments Before Shooting?
Law enforcement experts are analyzing a mysterious phone call made by the suspect wanted for the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Manhattan.
Video footage shows the gunman holding a cell phone to his ear before the shooting, and a dropped phone was recovered by police. Investigators can use cell tower data to track the suspect’s movements and identify potential contacts.
The suspect remains at large, but authorities are confident in their pursuit of justice.
The New York Police Department is offering a $10,000 reward for any information that could lead to the shooter’s arrest.
According to CBS, A federal appeals court upheld a law that would ban TikTok in the U.S., citing national security concerns over its Chinese ties.
The court sided with the Justice Department, stating that the law’s provisions concerning TikTok and its related entities are constitutional. The decision sets the stage for a potential Supreme Court battle as the law’s deadline approaches.
Lawmakers and officials have long raised concerns about TikTok’s ties to China, citing data security and content manipulation risks. TikTok and ByteDance have challenged the law, arguing that a forced sale is not feasible and would suppress free speech.
President-elect Donald Trump takes office, vowed to save the app during his recent campaign, after trying to ban TikTok during his first term. He takes office January 20th, 2025.
This morning a perfect way to ring in the holiday season. The Bowie State University Concert Choir is hosting its 3rd Annual Community-wide Messiah concert. My guest is Professor Brandon Felder – Director, Bowie State University Concert Choir
TheBowie State University Concert Choir is hosting its 3rd Annual Community-wide Messiah Concert December 11th @ 7pm with special guest performance by grammy award winning jazz artist Chelsey Green. bit.ly/bsuconcert24
Comedian Andrew Schulz responded sarcastically to Kendrick Lamar’s lyrics about white comedians making jokes about Black women, accusing Kendrick of hypocrisy and suggesting that the rapper mentioned him for attention.
Hiphopdx highlights on Kendrick’s GNX album opener, “wacced out murals,” he raps: “Don’t let no white comedian talk about no Black woman, that’s law.”
Schulz criticized Kendrick’s grammar and pointed out his collaborations with South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone. Schulz joked about having sex with Kendrick if they faced off one-on-one, prompting a response from TDE president Terrence “Punch” Henderson on social media.
The Apollo is being awarded a Kennedy Center Honor and a Howard Theatre Honors. The “Toast to the Apollo” is the first in what will be the launch of the Honors Series created by the Board of the Howard Theatre. The honor recognizes the impact the Apollo has on Black culture, impacting music, dance and much more. My guest this morning is Reggie Van Lee – Chairman of the Board, Howard Theatre.
A Toast to the Apollo is Friday, December 6th at the Historic Howard Theatre with a star-studded lineup with Ms. Phylicia Rashad as host for the evening. For more information and to win tickets, go to: www.whur.com
According to COMPLEX, Pharrell Williams is auctioning off his red-strapped Richard Mille RM 65-01 watch, with a starting bid of $320,000 on his platform Joopiter.
The watch, featuring Williams’ signature on the caseback, is a highly complex piece of horology with over 600 components and a split-seconds chronograph. The winning bidder will also receive an invitation to a Richard Mille VIP event.
Proceeds from the sale will benefit Black Ambition, a non-profit supporting black and Hispanic entrepreneurs. Recently, Tom Brady and other celebrities have also auctioned off similar Richard Mille watches.
Dads grab your sneakers and your favorite girl. It’s time for the Ivy Vine Charities 2024 Father Daughter Dinner Dance. Joining me is Alean Miller – Member of Ivy Vine Charities
Ivy Vine Charities is hosting its 2024 Father Daughter Dinner Dance Friday, December 13th at the Laurel-Beltsville Senior Activity Center. For more information go here: www.ivyvinecharities.org
Tis the season for holiday parties with a purpose. The Association of Addiction Professionals is hosting a holiday social this weekend and they want colleagues to join in. My guest is Angele Moss-Baker – President of the Association for Addiction Professionals for the District of Columbia
The Association of Addiction Professionals of DC is hosting a Holiday Social December 10th from 5pm to 8pm at the Stuart Center -821 Varnum Street, NE DC. For more information go here: www.naadac.org
Heads up for parents with high school seniors. The application process is now underway for scholarships offered by the Prince George’s County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. I have the details so your youngster doesn’t miss out. Joining me this morning is Cassandra Lewis – President of the Prince George’s County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc.
The Prince George’s County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America College Scholarships Application process is now underway. It’s open to graduating seniors at Prince George’s County public schools. For more information go here: www.pgcjackandjill.org
Tomorrow is Turkey Day and right after you enjoy that holiday meal, it’s time to get a jump start on your holiday shopping. Black Friday is coming up and I have the perfect place for you to “shop til you drop” and keep your dollars in your community. My guest is Juanita Briton – Founder and CEO BZB International
34th Annual BZB Shop Til You Drop Holiday Gift and Art Show is Black Friday, November 29th and Saturday, November 30th and Saturday, December 7th, 14th, 21st and Christmas Monday, December 23rd & Christmas Eve December 24th @ Shiloh Baptist Church. For more information go here: www.bzbinternational.com
Washington, D.C. (Monday, November 25, 2024) – With just three days to go before Thanksgiving, WHUR hit the streets today to help those experiencing homelessness. Armed with bags of groceries and gift cards courtesy of Shabach Ministries, Inc. and the Steve Harvey Morning Show Turkey Give; WHUR sought to spread joy and support to those in need across the DMV.
The initiative was part of WHUR’s Season of Giving Campaign to reach out to our less fortunate neighbors in time for Thanksgiving. “As a radio station, one of our goals is to extend kindness and generosity as a way to uplift others. We are grateful for the opportunity to pay it forward to ensure as many people as possible can experience the joy and fellowship that Thanksgiving brings,” said WHUR General Manager Sean Plater.
The bags of groceries and gift cards were given out at McPherson Square in NW, D.C., United Planning Organization Shelter, New York Avenue Presbyterian Church, the Walmart in Clinton, and Silver Spring Men’s Shelter.
“It’s all about bringing the true spirit of Thanksgiving to life by coming together to support one another. We are able to make a difference in the community because of the support of our generous sponsors and listeners. Stay tuned to WHUR for further details and updates. Your support makes a profound difference, and we thank you for being part of our mission to help those in need,” added Plater.
From all of us at WHUR, the Steve Harvey Morning Show, and Shabach Ministries, Inc., we wish you a Thanksgiving filled with gratitude and love.
Megachurch founder and celebrity pastor Bishop T.D. Jakes suffered a health incident mid-sermon on Sunday, abruptly stopping church services at the Potter’s House of Dallas, TX.
Jakes was wrapping up his hour-long sermon, telling the congregation “I still love to preach. I ain’t tired of preaching. I miss you.”
He then quoted Psalm 19:14 before he began to convulse in his seat as attendees rushed to help.
An update from Jakes’ team confirmed that he experienced a ‘slight health incident’ but is currently stable and under medical care, thanking the community for their support and prayers.
Potter’s House has more than 30,000 members and was founded by Jakes in 1996.
Wicked has defied gravity and flown to the top of the box office in its opening weekend.
The film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande raked in $114 million to grab the top spot.
Gladiator II, the other major new release of the week,starring everyones favorite leading man, Denzel Washington finished second with $55.5 million. Red One ($13.3 million), Bonhoeffer. Pastor. Spy. Assassin ($5.1 million), and Venom: The Last Dance ($4 million) rounded out the top five.
As Black Friday approaches, shoppers are gearing up for the busiest shopping day of the year. With over 130 million people expected to shop, safety precautions are crucial. Tips include staying aware of surroundings, avoiding distractions, and keeping valuable purchases discreet. It’s important to plan ahead, stay vigilant, and have a designated meeting spot in case of separation. Online discounts will also be available for those unable to shop in-store.
That Season of Giving feeling is still rolling here at WHUR. Today it’s the Steve Harvey Morning Show Turkey Give and I’m hitting the streets with gift cards to help some families in need this Thanksgiving. My guest is Jason Akyea – Director of Programs for Distant Relatives
The Steve Harvey Morning Show Turkey Give. We are crisscrossing the DMV to hand out Walmart gift cards to be used to purchase turkeys just in time for Thanksgiving courtesy of the Steve Harvey Morning Show.
According to BBC ,” A woman who accused Conor McGregor of raping her has won her claim against him for damages in a civil case.”
Being found liable of the rape of Nikita Hand in a Dublin hotel, McGregor is set to pay over $250,000.
Shortly after the decision was made, the MMA fighter made a statement on X (Twitter), that he will appeal the decision. “the judge’s instruction and the modest award given was for assault, not for aggravated or exemplary damages. I am disappointed that the jury did not hear all the evidence that the DPP reviewed,” he said.
Adding,“I am with my family now, focused on my future. Thank you to all my support worldwide.”
Good news for those in need of a little helping hand this holiday season. My guest this morning has details on how you can get a turkey with all the trimmings today while supplies last. My guest is Gwen Pope – Shabach Ministries Inc.
The WHUR – Shabach Ministries Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway is Thursday, November 21st at the Prince George’s County Social Services Agency at 425 Brightseat Road in Landover, Maryland.
Dawn M. Quattlebaum is the CEO of Seabury Resources for Aging, and the 2024 winner of the Excellence in Chief Executive Leadership (EXCEL) Award! The mission of Seabury is to provide affordable housing and services that support older adults to live independently and with dignity.
Dr. Sundra Mann, Family Caregiver (Dr. Mann is the only child; she’s been caring for her mother for 3 years. In 2020, her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. She will discuss how she juggles with multiple duties in her daily life. She works as a caregiver, mom, and chief of staff of a megachurch in Maryland. Dr. Mann is a doctor in education and leadership.)
It’s a Wellness Wednesday and it’s all about improving the well-being of black men. My guest this morning has information on changing or maintaining your prostate health. She has an important event coming up this weekend. My guest is Dr. Wanda Minnis Dyson – Director/ Founder of Change for Life Wellness & Aesthetics.
Change for Life Wellness and Aesthetics presents a free workshop on changing or maintaining prostate health. It’s November 23rd at 4pm at the New Cultural Cafe in SE. To RSVP call, 202-464-5020
Washington, D.C. (Tuesday, November 19, 2024) – It goes without saying that hunger is a real issue across the Washington, D.C. region with the latest figures showing 1 in 3 residents suffers from food in security. That number is often magnified during the holiday season. That’s why for 46 years 96.3 WHUR hosts its Annual Food2Feed radiothon a week before Thanksgiving urging listeners who are able to assist those in need.
Hundreds responded to that call Tuesday helping to donate nearly $45,000 to put food on the table of families and individuals in need just in time for Thanksgiving. Those tax-deductible donations go to help the Capital Area Food Bank and Shabach Ministries, Inc. to address hunger across the DMV, impacting more than a million people. That includes 1 in 10 children.
WHUR air personalities devoted their shows from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. to driving home the point about the power of giving and the severity of hunger in the DMV. “We are committed to amplifying the message about the plight of those in need in our region. We know too often these persons can operate in silence, too embarrassed to share their stories or to ask for help,” said WHUR General Manager Sean Plater. “This is where we can use the power of radio to be the voice for the hungry while also rendering help.”
It is estimated that for every dollar donated 2 meals can be provided, making it possible to help even more persons in need in this tight economy. “Hunger is a 24/7 issue for many in the DMV. Food insecurity is difficult to escape, because when budgets are tight, food is often the first thing that’s cut,” said Hillary Salmon – Senior Director of Marketing and Communications for the Capital Area Food Bank.
Donations are still being accepted at whur.com. In addition to monetary donations, non-perishable items are also accepted.
If you or someone you know are experiencing hunger, call the Capital Area Food Bank Hunger Hotline at 202-644-9807. If you are in need of a Thanksgiving basket, come out Thursday, November 21st from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to the Prince George’s County Department of Social Services @ 425 Brightseat Road – Landover, Maryland for our turkey and grocery giveaway while supplies last.
Special shout out and thanks to our loyal WHUR listeners who time after time show up and show out to help their neighbors. Special thanks to our WHUR sponsors Giant, Amerigroup, Copper Canyon, BZB, Washington National Cathedral, Truist Bank, and FedEx. Plus we want to express our sincere gratitude to our Howard University student “bucket brigade” for giving up their time and talents to volunteer all day.
Tomorrow is the big day. It’s Food2Feed 2024, WHUR’s annual effort to help provide holiday meals to needy families. My guest has all the details you need to get in on that feel good spirit of giving. My guest is Steve Robinson – Deputy General Manager for 96.3 WHUR FM
Food2Feed 2024 is Tuesday, November 19th from 6am to 6pm @ the studios of 96.3 WHUR FM – 529 Bryant Street, NW 20059. You can make a donation now @ whur.com or drop off your monetary or non-perishable items Tuesday.100% of your donations go to feed individuals and families in need during the holiday season. You can donate now at: www.whur.com
Rapper Lil Durk pleaded not guilty to conspiring to harm Quando Rondo on November 14, 2024.
The indictment stated that the alleged OTF gang members set up a bounty and used a label-affiliated credit card to book plane tickets from Chicago to California to find Quando. The Feds allege that Grant used a private jet from Miami to California to oversee the murderous operation and obtain hotel accommodations and tools.
The Grammy-winning artist’s high-profile attorney and the seriousness of the claims have garnered attention. Drew Findling is an accomplished Atlanta criminal defense lawyer who has represented Donald Trump, Cardi B, Gucci Mane, and Offset. Prosecutors say Lil Durk placed a bounty on Quando Rondo in 2022, killing his cousin.
Court documents allege that Durk hired five people to travel from Chicago to California to commit the act. The rapper is charged with conspiracy, murder-for-hire, and guns in a violent crime.
Findling’s involvement intensifies the case. Findling has stated his professional philosophy, “If not me, then who? I think the system collapses if one of us does that.”
Jay Z’s Shawn Carter Foundation has begun an initiative to help students at HBCUs.
The foundation announced its Champions for Financial Legacy(CFFL) in partnership with Toyota and the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania.
According to Billboard, “Every day at the Shawn Carter Foundation, we dedicate ourselves to uplifting students and communities that are underserved,” Jay-Z’s mother, Gloria Carter, who co-founded the foundation, said in a statement. “To launch a financial education program that will reach more students and communities, along with dedicated partners like Toyota and the Wharton School of Business, is a vision we are finally seeing come to fruition. We are so excited to see the incredible impact of CFFL unfold and look forward to its growth.”
This program will help HBCU students by giving them access to tools and resources to manage their money as they enter the workforce.
Topics covered include budgeting, mutual funds, credit scores, stock markets, and more. The Champions for Financial Legacy program begins at select HBCUs nationwide in the Spring 2025 semester and wishes to expand to additional schools in the coming years.
Walking your way to help improve the literacy rate in DC. A big event is coming up this weekend and my guest this morning says this is a chance to change the trajectory for those who cannot read. My guest this mornings is Silas Grant, Jr. – Organizer of 3rd Annual Walk for Literacy
The3rd Annual “Sonny Boy’s 5k, a Walk for Literacy is November 16th at 9am at Tanner Park in NE. Monies raised support literacy for Reading Partners DC. For more information go here: www.readingpartners.org
A chance this weekend to declutter your home… and help our neighbors in need. It’s the Annual WHUR Community Shred and Canned Food Drive and my colleague Renee Nash – News and Public Affairs Director for WHUR is here with the details. My guest this morning is Jeff “Coach” Wims – WHUR Facilities Director
The WHUR Community Shred and Canned Food Drive is Saturday, November 16th from 9am to 12pm at Briar Patch Shredding and Recycling @ 4501 Forbes Blvd. in Lanham, Maryland. Bring some canned goods and WHUR will shred up to 3 boxes of your documents for free. For more information go here: www.whur.com
According to AP News, “a traditional part of the peaceful handoff of power” in the Oval Office today at the invitation of President Biden, exchanged between former and future President Donald Trump.
In 2016, Trump and then-President Obama had a friendly meeting in the Oval Office, with Trump expressing respect for Obama.
Despite their strained relationship, Biden invited Trump to the White House after the 2024 election, emphasizing the importance of a peaceful transition for the American people.Melania Trump will not meet first lady Jill Biden, although the first ladies do traditionally meet.
The meeting between Trump and Biden comes after a contentious campaign and debate, highlighting the challenges of political transitions in the U.S.
Their last meeting face-to-face was at the June debate, during which Biden called Trump a “convicted felon” and said he had the “morals of an alleycat.”
While the meeting on Wednesday is likely to be courteous, the pair are bitter rivals.
Elon Musk, a huge backer of Trump’s 2024 bid, was also reported to be with Trump on his plane as they headed to Washington.
Washington, D.C. (Tuesday, November 12, 2024) – DC police are asking for the public’s help locating missing one-year-old Morgan Carter. She was last seen October 31st with 31-year-old Peguy Sikadi in the 5300 block of E Street, SE. Call police at 202-727-9099 with tips. The child is described as a black female, unknown height and weight, last seen wearing a pink and black jacket. Carter has Black hair in a braided hairstyle and brown eyes.
Police believe Carter may be with 31-year-old Peguy Sikadi, who detectives are attempting to locate. Anyone who has knowledge of the location of this critical missing person should take no action, but call police at (202) 727-9099 or text your tip to the Department’s TEXT TIP LINE at 50411
The child is described as a black female, unknown height and weight, last seen wearing a pink and black jacket. Carter has Black hair in a braided hairstyle and brown eyes. Carter was reported missing from the 5300 block of E Street, Southeast, and was last seen on October 31, 2024.
Police believe Carter may be with 31-year-old Peguy Sikadi, who detectives are attempting to locate.
Anyone who has knowledge of the location of this critical missing person should take no action but call police at (202) 727-9099 or text your tip to the Department’s TEXT TIP LINE at 50411
My guest this morning provides toiletries for schools to help youth and they are in need of more supplies. I’m joined by Rochelle Campbell – Executive Director of Toiletry and Company, Inc.
Toiletry and company provides personal care items for individuals, families, and residential programs throughout Charles County. For more information go here: www.toiletryandco.org
It’s Veterans Day and National Harbor is celebrating the Day with fun and discounts for Vets. My guest is Deborah Topcik – Director of Marketing for National Harbor
National Harbor is celebrating Veterans Day with its 2nd Annual National Harbor Pickleball Tournament. This year’s theme is Battle of the Branches., a challenge to see which branch of service comes out on top. For more information go here: www.nationalharbor.com
Jennifer Thomas, Associate Professor, Department of Media, Journalism and Film, Howard UniversityDr. Ravi K. Perry, Associate Professor, Department of Political Science, Howard University
Dozens of Black people across the country reported receiving text messages and emails inviting them to pick cotton at the nearest plantation just hours after the presidential election.
The messages, which included racist language and threats, left recipients feeling scared and targeted.
NBC News reports College students from various universities, including Ohio State and Clemson, were among those who received the messages.
Monèt Miller from Atlanta, a publicist received a text, the message said, “Our Executive Slaves will come get you in a Brown Van.” It continued, “be prepared to be searched down once you’ve enter the plantation.”
Tishaura Jones, from Saint Louis, Mayor of Saint Louis City relieved an email, Friday morning with similar text. The e-mail read, “Greetings Ni**er.”
Many believe this is a “scare tactic”, Miller told NBC, “I saw it and was like, ‘What in the world?’ Usually, in any other instance, someone is racist to the point where it’s funny, it’s a bad humor sort of funny. But that day, with the climate and everything going on, I genuinely felt scared.”
The FBI is investigating the texts, which were sent from untraceable numbers associated with a text messaging service. The NAACP condemned the messages, linking them to the president-elect’s rhetoric and expressing concern for the safety of Black individuals.
