The Greater Metropolitan Association of Realtist is preparing for its Annual Red Carpet Gala. It’s a party with a purpose to raise much needed scholarship dollars for the United Negro College Fund. My guest is Nichelle McDuffie Hagins
The Greater Metropolitan Association of Realtist, Inc or GMAR’s 4th Annual Red Carpet Gala and UNCF Scholarship Fundraiser is Saturday March 16th from 5pm to 10pm at BlackRock Center for the Arts in Germantown, MD . For more information go here: www.gmarrealtist.com
A DC Housing Authority police officer was shot inside an apartment building near the Navy Yard Thursday. Authorities say around 6 a.m. police responded to a call of “unwanted guests” at the Carroll Apartments at 410 M Street, SE.
Officials say it was then that the Housing Authority officer found a man and women who would not leave the premises. The officer scuffled with the man, the man then shot the officer in the abdomen.
That suspect fled and barricaded himself inside a nearby garage for several hours before being apprehended by police.
Several streets were blocked off during the siege and residents were told to shelter in place. The wounded officer was taken to the hospital and is in stable condition.
Another Black History Moment this morning highlighting some of the positive achievements happening right here in our community. The Mandala School is teaching young people about the value of a good education and the importance of knowing their rich history legacy. My guest is Antoinette Murray – Head of Mandala School
Mandala School takes a holistic approach to learning. Our environment allows students to thrive emotionally, socially, and academically. We believe that these three areas of development are interconnected, and that each is essential to a student’s overall success and well-being. For more information go here: www.mandalaschoolmd.org
Good news for parents and your college bound youngsters.The Black College Expo is coming up and it’s a chance to get face to face with college recruits and get access to those much-needed college scholarship dollars. My guest is Dr. Theresa Price – Founder and CEO of National College Resources Foundation
National College Resources Foundation’s, Black College Expo March 2nd at the Washington Convention Center. For more information go here: www.ncrfoundation.org
The 2024 general election is just nine months away. The answer to who the next president will be is anybody’s guess. But we do have some insight into the minds of Black voters in one key state, thanks to a new poll released last week by the Howard University Initiative on Public Opinion.
In spite of the fact that he has been portrayed in a certain light, Reesa Teesa’s ex-boyfriend is presenting his side of the story regarding a TikTok saga that has gone viral.
He has a different story, which may end up in court. Jerome McCoy, who was referred to as “Legion” in Reesa’s now-viral “Who TF Did I Marry?” series, has revealed that everything that Reesa has stated about him in her lengthy video series is not true.
Despite the fact that Reesa has leveled a number of complaints against Legion, including allegations that he lied about his work, family, and fortune, among other things, Legion is now responding with allegations against his own.
Legion asserts that he and Reesa had trust issues at one point in time. He goes on to assert that she attempted to reconcile with him while purportedly threatening to “expose” him if he did not cooperate. Legion asserts that he and Reesa had trust issues at one point in time.
He goes on to assert that she attempted to get back with him while purportedly threatening to “expose” him if he did not cooperate. He indicates that the fact that he did not accept it is the reason why all of this is coming to light.
He believes that this is affecting his career in public relations, which he claims he does for a hospital and has met with an attorney to take possible legal action against Reesa. It appears that his company believes that they may have been harmed as a result of her stories. Legion has stated that he is willing to support his company’s actions.
Help this morning for parents and students who need assistance filling out those all-important FASFA forms. College Success Foundation DC is holding free monthly workshops to make things easier especially for residents of Wards 7 and 8. My guest is Kevin Mungin – Director of Programs for College Success Foundation DC
College Success Foundation DC addresses the critically low college graduation rates of students in DC’s Wards 7 and 8. The Foundation is now offering monthly free FAFSA workshops and parent information sessions at the Capital One Café in SE. For more information go here: www.collegesuccessfoundation.org
February is American Heart Month and a reminder for all of us to focus on our heart health. According to the CDC, it remains the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups in America. One person dies every 33 seconds in the United States from cardiovascular disease. Why is that? We’re talking about it on this Medical Monday.
Dr. Quinn Capers, MD, Cardiologist, Chair, Department of Internal Medicine, Howard University College of Medicine
Washington, D.C. (Sunday, February 25, 2024) – Determined to be a part of a mission to change lives and transform communities, WHUR listeners gave in a big way to the 2024 WHUR Helping Hands Radiothon. The 12-hour fundraiser, held Sunday, February 25th from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Howard University Centers for Excellence on Georgia Avenue, N.W., collected more than $52,000 and donations are still pouring in.
All monies raised go to help defray the costs to send 1,400 Howard University students to 21 cities across the country and right here in the DMV to assist communities in crisis. “We are very thankful for our wonderful WHUR listeners for their generous donations to support Helping Hands benefiting Howard University students’ volunteer efforts. The contributions will make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and their community services initiatives”, said WHUR General Sean Plater.
This year, students will travel to Albany, Georgia; Baltimore, Maryland; Birmingham, Alabama; Buffalo, New York, Charlotte, North Carolina,; Chicago, Illinois; Cleveland, Ohio; Detroit, Michigan; Flint, Michigan; Louisville, Kentucky; Memphis, Tennessee; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Nashville, Tennessee; New Orleans, Louisiana; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Richmond, Virginia; St. Louis, Missouri; and Washington, D.C ; Williston, South Carolina.
The 38 busloads of Howard University students will leave on their mission of help and hope Saturday, March 2nd returning Saturday, March 9th. The students will perform more than 150-thousand hours of volunteer service addressing issues like illiteracy, homelessness, housing, education, youth empowerment, environment, and many more.
This marks the 30th year of Howard’s Alternative Spring Break Program.
Hundreds of Howard University students are preparing to roll up their sleeves next week to render service to communities in crisis. They need our help to make that mission possible. This Sunday WHUR is hosting our Annual Helping Hands Radiothon. Joining me this morning to talk about why this year’s Alternative Spring Break is so crucial is Joseph Dillard – Program Director for the Alternative Spring Break Program (ASB)
Now in its 30th year, this year’s Alternative Spring Break theme is “30 Years of Service… A Legacy of Paying It Forward.” The WHUR Helping Hands Radiothon is Sunday, February 25th 6am – 6pm to help raise monies to support ASB. You don’t have to wait until Sunday to make a donation. Donate right now at whur.com.
According to CNN, Texas high school that suspended a student over the length of his dreadlocks did not violate state law, a judge ruled on Thursday.
The case centered around Barbers Hill Independent School District, which suspended student Darryl George for violating its policy on hair length for male students.
George and his family say the policy violates the CROWN Act, which bans discrimination over hairstyles “commonly or historically associated with race” such as braids, locks, or twists. Which went into place for Texas on September 1, 2023, that’s meant to prohibit discrimination of hairstyles.
The judge ruled the district’s policy does not violate the law because it focuses on hair length, not style. Barbers Hill Independent School District Superintendent Greg Poole told CNN, “hair length of male students is only constitutionally protected for Native American students.”
The school’s policy affirms that “Boy’s hair will not extend below the eyebrows, below the ear lobes, or below the top of a t-shirt collar.”
Co-author of the CROWN Act and Texas State Representative Ron Reynolds testified on Darryl’s behalf. Upset with the ruling he said, “We will not stop. We will continue to speak truth to power.”
George remains strong and refuses to cut his hair and his family is pursuing a federal civil rights lawsuit.
Wendy Williams’ family has revealed that she is receiving treatment for health issues, including aphasia and frontotemporal dementia.
Aphasia affects language and communication abilities, the frontotemporal dementia impacts behavior and cognitive functions. Actor Bruce Willis also diagnosed with aphasia and frontotemporal dementia.
The disclosure coincides with the release of her Lifetime documentary, “Where Is Wendy Williams?” which explores her struggles post-talk show, scheduled to air February 24,2024.
The film depicts Wendy’s journey to recovery under a legal guardian’s care, addressing her battles with addiction and mental health. Despite the challenges, Wendy’s family notes she is in a better place emotionally and taking control of her narrative.
She is currently being treated by specialists at Weill Cornell Medicine while under the care of a court-appointed legal guardian and is in a more stable place physically and mentally. It’s been reported that she still is able to do many things for herself and maintains sense of humor.
The company confirmed that service is back for all AT&T customers affected by today’s outage.
“We have restored wireless service to all our affected customers. We sincerely apologize to them. Keeping our customers connected remains our top priority, and we are taking steps to ensure our customers do not experience this again in the future.”
ORIGINAL February 22, 2024 at 12:00 pm:
Thousands of customers have been without cell phone service on Thursday.
According to the tracking site Downdetector.com, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon customers have been experiencing outages. AT&T alone experienced seventy-one thousand outages.
“Some of our customers are experiencing wireless service interruptions this morning. We are working urgently to restore service to them,” AT&T said in a statement. “We encourage the use of Wi-Fi calling until service is restored.”
Meanwhile, eleven hundred outages have been reported for T-Mobile and three thousand for Verizon. “Some of our customers are experiencing wireless service interruptions this morning,” the company said.
“We are working urgently to restore service to them. We encourage the use of Wi-Fi calling until service is restored.”
#Everything Black. There’s a campaign underway to highlight black business owners, artists, authors and others in Prince George’s County during Black History Month. Joining me this morning to talk about it is Krystal Oriadha (Or-ree-ah-duh) – Prince George’s County District 7 Councilmember
Prince George’s County District 7 Councilmember Krystal Oriadha has launched her #EverythingBlack Campaign to highlight black business owners, artists, authors, and other influencers. She’s gearing up for her “Black on the Block” Black History Month Celebration February 24th from 2pm to 5pm at 4217 Silver Hill Road in Suitland. For more information go here: www.heyzine.com
WJLA reported, that Howard University is making history with the first-ever HBCU figure skating team, inspiring other schools and future Black athletes.
The team, supported by the nonprofit Diversify Ice, is preparing for its first intercollegiate tournament at the University of Delaware.
Howard skater Toni Smith said, “So I’m from Shaker Heights Ohio, and in Shaker Heights, everyone skates. I’ve been skating since I was like 2 years old. Friday night skates was a huge deal there.”
Co-founders Maya James and Cheyenne Walker hope to see more HBCUs embrace figure skating to increase diversity in the sport. Despite challenges, the team is determined to succeed and represent Howard University with pride.
“Honestly I would really like to see other HBCUs do figure skating teams as well. Get more black and brown boys and girls on the ice, be their representation for them,” said James.
Although the university does not have its facility on campus and the only rink available is out of commission due to construction, the team was able to have their first practice.
This groundbreaking initiative highlights the importance of diversity and representation in figure skating.
Do you loan money to family or friends? Sometimes, there are real financial emergencies. If you do, how do you make sure you avoid the drama of getting paid back?
D.C. Young Fly is being extremely kind in requesting that the person who stole his bag return it as soon as possible.
This is because the sentimental value of the items inside the bag is greater than the financial benefit that results from this theft. It would appear that DC had a performance at the Hollywood Improv last night, but he realized that his bag was missing after the concert had ended.
He is under the impression that it was stolen by a thief. D.C. took to social media to share with anyone who knows the whereabouts of the bag to return it to the Hollywood Improv, without repercussions. The bag contained the death certificate of his fiancée, Jacky Oh!, with whom he had three children and that’s why he needs the bag back as soon as possible.
Jacky, unfortunately, passed in May 2023 from complications of cosmetic surgery. Fans commend D.C. Young Fly for the strength he’s shown in his time of grieving.
(Glenarden, MD) — A PG County school community is beaming with pride after students earned the top ranking for their performance on statewide assessment tests. Glenarden Woods Elementary finished at the head of the class for the 2023 Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program exams, beating out more than 850 other elementary schools across Maryland. The achievement is not only a first for a PG County elementary school but is also significant since the student population at Glenarden Woods is 90-percent Black or Latinx.
Donnell Rawlings recently performed at the Laugh Factory and took the opportunity to share how he feels about Corey Holcomb.
It appears that Holcomb’s insult to Rawlings was what started the entire incident at the Laugh Factory. Corey went on after Donnell, and he began screaming outrageous allegations and jabs at Donnell and Dave Chappelle’s expense.
A video emerged of this confrontation in which Donnell is defending Dave, to which Corey refers as an average comedian. Corey then questions Donell’s “street cred” as they argue back and forth in the video, which shocked fans.
Donnell ultimately decided to leave the situation before it became really dangerous. On the other hand, he expresses his desire to discuss the matter with Corey in a more relaxed atmosphere, with the expectation that they will be able to put their disagreements to rest. Seems as it is becoming a new trend for comedians to attack one another’s skills and their credibility.
It’s Black History Month and details this morning on a program designed to support and empower small and minority owned businesses. It’s called Level-Up. My guest is Dawn Medley – President and CEO of FSC First
FSC First Program is called Level Up and It’s designed to support and empower small and minority-owned businesses. It creates opportunities for minority-owned businesses and entrepreneurs to improve their skills and grow their businesses. For more information go here: www.fscfirst.com
Actress and comedian Cocoa Brown’s home in Fayetteville, GA, was destroyed in a fire Sunday evening. Out of love and support her friends and family started a GoFundMe campaign.
The fire, believed to have started from a lit candle, quickly engulfed the house, sadly forcing Cocoa and her young son Phoenix to escape with just the clothes on their backs.
Despite the devastating loss, Cocoa’s loved ones have rallied around her, aiming to raise $50,000 to support her during this challenging time.
The GoFundMe statement mentions, “Cocoa, a beacon of joy in our lives through her incredible comedy, now faces an unimaginable challenge as she and her son must rebuild their lives from scratch. While we’re grateful to hear that they are safe, the road ahead is undoubtedly daunting.”
“Cocoa Brown has brought laughter and light to countless lives with her talent and humor. Now, it’s our turn to rally around her and show our support in her time of need. Together, let’s shine a beacon of hope and happiness in this time of darkness,” the statement continues.
Our prayers are with Cocoa and her family through these trying times.
Hollywood Unlocked posted several videos of former “Real Housewives of New York” star Bethenny Frankel on her Instagram profile, criticizing Rowland after Page Six reported last week that the singer left NBC’s “Today” show due to a small dressing room.
The Skinnygirl entrepreneur was “disgusted” at the chart-topper’s last-minute decision to leave Hoda Kotb hanging, suggesting that Rowland and her team should have gracefully accepted the modest accommodations, noting that even Kotb and Bush Hager are fine with their small rooms.
Fans and friends were quick to come to Kelly’s defense, including her former Destiny’s Child bandmate, Latavia Roberson and Marlon Waynes, who stated: “Yall stop with these false narratives. I’ve worked with @kellyrowland as a Star/producer i [sic] will honestly say she was nothing short of AMAZING,” the comedian wrote on his Instagram. “Sweet, kind, professional. On time, great energy, impeccable manners and professionalism. She was nice to EVERYONE on set. Not one diva moment.”
(Friday, February 16, 2024) – A home explosion in Sterling, Virginia has left a path of death and destruction in the 300 block of Silver Ridge Drive. The blast has left one firefighter dead, 9 others hurt and two civilians were also taken to the hospital.
Neighbors in the area say the smell of gas was wreaking in the area and numerous reports indicate that’s what brought fighters to the home. Fire officials say while inside conducting their investigation, the home exploded and numerous firefighters sent out “mayday calls.”
Loudoun County Assistant Fire Chief James Williams says it’s the worst possible things to happen. “The injured fighters’ conditions range from severe to less serious.
The explosion completely leveled the home with debris strewn all across the area. Several neighbors said there homes were also damaged by the blast.
The cause of the fire and explosion as under investigation.
Black women and a crisis of confidence. It’s not often talked about. It’s an issue that’s often hiding in the emotional shadows in the workplace or behind the facade of bold social media posts. But, are Black women their own biggest critics? Are they self-sabotaging themselves?
According to HIPHOPDX , during a recent interview, Killer Mike said that he thinks that Black men should only marry Black women and explained why he thinks this is the way.
Killer Mike said, “He says: ‘That’s when it comes to marriage — you should marry a Black woman.'”
He continued, “Who’s going to understand me like a Black woman? Who gon’ understand my pain, my strife, my struggle? Who’s going to understand culturally how important it is for my Black children to be proud to be Black? Even when she didn’t birth these children, she’s still their mother — nobody’s going to do that like a Black woman.”
He added, “That’s not putting down other people, but that’s [to] say before you criticize me now, I’m going to look at your life decisions, n**ga, and if your life decisions didn’t bring you to a Black woman, then, n**ga, a lot of the s**t you say might not be [credible].”
Atlanta Black Star reported, a Florida man, Marquis Jackson, shared a harrowing experience where deputies handcuffed him and placed him in the back of a patrol car before opening fire on the vehicle.
The incident occurred after deputies responded to calls about disruptive behavior and alleged threats from Jackson.
Jackson, who was not charged with any crime, described the traumatic experience as leaving him permanently scarred.
Jackson took to Facebook to state, “As soon as that was announced multiple shots were fired at me while I was stuck in the backseat. All I could do was lean over and play dead to prevent getting shot in the head”. He continued, “I was scared to death and I knew all I could depend on was God! I ignored everything and prayed! Windows were shattering on me the whole time as bullets continued flying across me.”
Click here to watch the bodycam footage, that shows former deputy Jesse Hernandez rolling away from the patrol car, yelling, “shots fired”, then firing at the vehicle where Jackson was handcuffed inside.
Despite being unarmed, Jackson played dead to avoid being shot as deputies fired multiple rounds into the car. Hernandez has since resigned after an internal investigation found his use of force unreasonable, while another deputy was cleared of any wrongdoing.
(Wednesday, February 14, 2024) – One person was killed and at least 8 children are reported among the more than 20 people injured as gunfire erupted today at the end of the Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl parade. Police say three suspects have been taken into custody. Radio station KKFI said in a Facebook post that DJ Lisa Lopez was killed in the melee. “This senseless act has taken a beautiful person from her family and this KC Community,” the statement said. It is still not clear what lead up to the violence. But authorities say it was not terrorist related.
UPDATED 4:25 p.m.
Authorities are now saying one person is dead and 9 others injured following a shooting near the Kansas City Chiefs victory parade. The gunfire erupted at the end of the parade. Police have taken two armed people into custody
(Wednesday, February 14, 2024) – Multiple people have been hurt in Kansas City near the Kansas City Chiefs parade. Fire officials say eight to 10 people were injured as gunshots rang out near Union Station. Two people have been detained. Authorities have not said if they are suspects.
The shooting broke out during what was supposed to be the conclusion of the celebratory parade to show appreciation and support for the Super Bowl Champions. It is not clear if all those hurt were shot or otherwise injured in some other manner.
Usher’s Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show set a new record with 129.3 million views, surpassing Rihanna’s 121.018 million in Super Bowl LVII.
Katy Perry’s Super Bowl XLIX performance finished third with 121m, followed by Lady Gaga’s Super Bowl LI performance with 118m.
Coldplay, Beyoncé, and Bruno Mars’ Super Bowl 50 collaboration rounded out the top five with 115.5m. Usher’s performance included a marching band, colorful costumes, and a costume change, including a roller-skating performance.
The A-Town artist reflected on some of his greatest hits, while during his 15-minute performance. Usher’s wardrobe was full of great pieces, like the glove that paid homage to Michael Jackson and the customized Air Jordan shoes decked out in chrome with blue details.
His performance of ‘My Boo’ with Alicia Keys drew viral attention. The show also featured H.E.R. and opened with a performance of ‘Caught Up.’ He also included members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated as background dancers.
Despite being country songs, Beyoncé’s recent hits “Texas Hold ‘Em” and “16 Carriages” have not been played on some country radio stations despite their popularity.
“We do not play Beyoncé on KYKC as we are a country music station,” general manager Roger Harris wrote in response to a fan’s request that Oklahoma country station KYKC play “Texas Hold ‘Em.”
The response quickly went viral after it was shared on social media on Tuesday, inspiring the Beyhive to take action and call on the station to change its tune. S.C.O.R.E., the station’s parent company, clarified to Entertainment Weekly (EW) that Harris was unaware of Beyoncé’s shift to country music.
Harris emailed EW that they responded to the request as they would for a Rolling Stones song on their country station. KYKC announced on its X account that “Texas Hold ‘Em” would debut on the station despite not having the song yet.
Harris explains that they were targeted in a campaign to add the song, so they added it to the playlist upon receiving the file.
Update – Washington, D.C. (Wednesday, February 14, 2024) – Three DC police officers were shot this morning serving a warrant in partnership with the Humane Rescue Alliance. The person was wanted on charges of cruelty to animals. As police approached the home in the 5000 block of Hanna Place, SE, a gunman opened fire striking three officers.
“A barricade has been declared in this situation. This remains an active situation and the individual has continued to fire from that location. We are asking everyone to please stay out of this location until we are able to apprehend the suspect,” said Police Chief Pamela Smith. Smith arrived on the scene to update the public on the shooting two hours after the violence began.
The inured officers were taken to Washington Hospital Center. They are expected to survive. A 4th officer was also injured. But not shot. Police have not released the names of the officers or the name of the suspect.
Asked whether crime is out of control in DC, Chief Smith gave this response. “I won’t say DC crime is out of control. I think we have a group of individuals who do not respect law enforcement and authority. Our officers again were where they were supposed to be doing exactly what we need them to do and we will continue to do that.” This is a developing story.
February 18th is National Battery Day and the Prince William County Solid Waste Division has some important information it wants residents to know about the care, storage, and disposal of batteries. My guest is Deborah Campbell – Communications Analyst for Prince William County Solid Waste Division
February 18th is National Battery Day and the Prince William County Solid Waste Division. For more information go here: www.pwcva.gov/trashandrecycling
Washington, D.C. (Tuesday, February 13, 2024) – A wet wintry mix is moving across the DMV and that’s causing some school closings and delays for our region. Here’s a rundown of what to expect today.
Schools Closings and Delays
Fairfax County Public Schools – 2 hour delay
Fauquier County Public Schools 2-hour delay
Federal Government – open on time. Employees have the option for unscheduled leave or unscheduled telework
Frederick County Public Schools (Md) – 2 hour delay
Frederick County Public Schools (Va) – 2 hour delay
According to Essence, it’s been reported that Usher married Jennifer Goicoechea in Las Vegas on Feb. 11th.
This Super Bowl Sunday was probably one of the greatest nights of his life. “Congrats to the newlyweds in the building!” producer Bryan-Michael Cox cheered as the duo made their way into the intimate USHER x Rémy Martin Post-Performance Dinner Party held at Cathédrale Las Vegas wearing all-white bridal looks.
The two have been together since 2019 and share children, Sovereign Bo Raymond and Sire Castrello Raymond. Usher also has two sons, he shares with ex-wife Tameka Foster, Usher V, and Naviyd.
The private ceremony was held in an undisclosed location.
Heads up for my animal lovers. The Prince George’s County Animal Services Division is looking for volunteers. The next orientation is February 17th. www.princegeorgespets4us.com
Battery Disposal
February 18th is National Battery Day and the Prince William County Solid Waste Division wants residents to know about the proper care, storage, and disposal of batteries. www.pwcva.gov/trashandrecycling
Black Boys Celebration
Celebrate Black Boys. Join the Black Child Development Institute for a fun filled day of joy, empowerment and endless possibilities for young males February 24th at THE-ARC Black Box Theater in SE.
HBCU Jobs
The DC Department of Employee Services is urging graduating HBCU seniors to pursue a career in public service and is now taking applications for highly talented and qualified candidates. www.does.dc.gov/hbcu
Mental Health Awareness
Break the stigma of mental illness. Join Preventive Measures Foundation for its Awards Gala February 29th at the Auto Shop Ballroom in NE. www.preventivemeasuresinc.com
Jack and Jill
The Prince George’s County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America is accepting applications for its college scholarship programs. The deadline is March 1st. www.pgcjackandjill.org
Youth Black History Celebration
Momma’s Safe Haven is hosting its 11th Annual DC’s Youth Got Talent Black History Showcase February 26th at the THEARC in SE. The event is free and a chance for local youth to display their artistic skills. www.mommassafehaven.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 prior to your event.
(Sunday, February 11, 2024) – Houston police are investigating a shooting inside the mega Lakewood
Church of pastor Joel Osteen. Police say a woman in a trench coat entered the church and opened fire Sunday afternoon. She was fatally shot by two off-duty officers working security.
According to authorities, a five-year-old child who was with the woman was critically injured in the shoot-out. It is not clear who shot the child. Officials have not yet released the name of the shooter or motive for the violence. They believe she was 30-35-years-old.
Houston Police Chief Troy Finner said a 57-year-old man who did not have anything to do with the shooting was also injured. “He was shot in the leg and is seeking treatment in the hospital.”
The shooting happened between services at the megachurch which draws thousands weekly and is believed to be the 3rd largest church in the country. “Our hearts are with those impacted by today’s tragic shooting and the entire Lakewood Church community in Houston,” said Texas Governor Greg Abbott.
Osteen said the shooting could have been much worse if it had happened during the larger 11 a.m. service. “We’re devastated,,”adding he would pray for the victims and their families.
This is developing story and will be updated as information develops
It’s the football weekend we’ve all waited for. The big match up between Taylor Swift and Usher in Superbowl 58! Just kidding!!! It’s the defending Superbowl champions Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers. This could be the biggest game ever and the most watched. Who is your team and is there too much Travis Kelsey and Taylor Swift focus for you?
(Washington, DC) — Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan is kicking off a surprise bid for the Senate. The Republican announced today in a video posted to social media he’ll run to replace outgoing Democratic Senator Ben Cardin. Hogan, who has been a frequent critic of Donald Trump, said he’s running to stand up to both parties and fix the nation’s “broken politics.” The move offers Republicans a boost to their already favorable Senate map in the upcoming election.
(Washington, DC) — Final preparations are being made at The Wharf for tomorrow’s big Mardi Gras celebration. Organizers say they’re going all out this year with a big parade along Wharf Street Southwest, four live bands, culinary delights featuring a taste of New Orleans and a fireworks show to cap things off. Thousands are expected to attend. The event runs from 3:00 to 7:00 and the parade starts at 3:30.
Calling all my filmmakers!!! Do you have a story to tell? The Annapolis Film Festival is seeking submissions for its 2024 Short Films Challenge. My guests are Lee Anderson & Patti White – Directors and Co-Founders of the Annapolis Film Festival
The Annapolis Film Festival is seeking submissions for its 2024 Short Films Challenge. The theme is “Out of the Box.” The deadline is February 23rd. For more info go here: www.annapolisfilmfestival.com
Snoop Dogg and Master P have filed a lawsuit against Walmart and Post Foods over Snoop Cereal Tuesday, alleging “deceptive practice” of hiding their products from consumers.
According to a statement by the duo’s lawyer, Snoop Cereal, was “intentionally kept in the stockrooms of Walmart stores, marked with ‘no location’ coding, preventing them from being placed on the store shelves.”
“At dozens of Walmart’s, all around America … everybody went saying, ‘Where’s Snoop Cereal?'” Attorney Ben Crump said. He also pointed out instances in which Snoop’s cereal varieties, such as “Fruity Hoopz” and “Cinnamon Toastees,” “The lawsuit claims that Post breached its agreements with Broadus Foods and acted negligently. It also accuses Walmart of interfering with Post’s scheme and both companies of engaging in a civil conspiracy.”
Take the #snoopcerealchallenge to your local Walmart and send us photos and videos of the cereal aisle. We want to see if Snoop Cereal is being kept in the back away from the community. pic.twitter.com/YestMhl9S0
We’re at the Reporters’ Roundtable, discussing some of the top stories of the week. On deck this week, more on the DC Crime Bill. The DOJ proposes changes in state-run crime victims compensation, the Michigan mother convicted in mass school shooting committed by her son. The DC divorce waiting period is over. Do you support beer and wine sales in Maryland grocery stores?
Part 1
Part 2
Panama Jackson, Blogger, Columnist, The GrioSam P.K. Collins, Staff Writer, The Washington Informer
It’s a Wellness and today is National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. My guest today is hosting a free event as the work continues to stop the spread of HIV. My guest is Artura Hill – Senior Health Educator for Nova Salud, Inc.
NovaSalud’s mission is to improve and strengthen the health and well-being of Northern Virginia community through culturally-competent and language-appropriate HIV/AIDS prevention services and education free of charge to all. Wednesday, February 7th from 6:30pm to 9pm NovaSalud will host a free HIV/AIDS Awareness and Testing event. For more information go here: www.novasaludinc.org
The DC Council unanimously passed the first reading of the omnibus crime bill late this afternoon. Ward 8 Councilman Trayon White voted present. This is not a done deal. A second reading is expected later this month. But we expect a continued hue and cry about this sweeping crime bill as the city struggles to address growing crime problems. We’re hearing more voices in this great debate.
Rapper Killer Mike recently addressed the claims that he got into it with a female security guard, which led to his arrest at the Grammys.
A woman claims that Mike pushed her to the floor during an argument, and she was injured on her hands and fingers. According to NBC, Mike released a statement and said, “I first want to extend my appreciation to the Grammy’s Committee for recognizing me and my team for the work that went into Michael.”
He continued, “We are incredibly proud and are basking in this moment. I am also grateful that one of my prayers has been answered. The day after my Grammy win, I learned that my son, who has been on the list for a kidney for years, finally has a match. Obviously, we are elated.”
He added, “I do want to note that last night, my team and I fielded a number of calls from concerned fans and colleagues wanting to know if I was OK. I greatly appreciate the concern and support, but I am better than OK. As you can imagine, there was a lot going and there was some confusion around which door my team and I should enter. We experienced an overzealous security guard but my team and I have the upmost confidence that I will ultimately be cleared of all wrongdoing. Until that time, keep listening to Michael, and keep going after your dreams.”
Addressing critical issues in the Black community related to addiction treatment. An important summit is coming up later this week designed to bring professionals together who work in the area of addiction prevention, treatment, recovery and education. My guest this morning is Monica Rich McLaurin – Co-Chair of the National Association for Addiction Professionals
The National Association for Addiction Professionals is hosting a free two-day virtual summit February 8th and 9th to discuss the critical issues in the Black community related to addiction treatment and highlight some of the unique needs and traits related to African Americans . www.naadac.org/engagement-in-the-black-community-summit
We hear a lot of talk about dental health, but it’s usually about adults. Kids have teeth too. If they don’t take care of them early, there could big, expensive, even painful problems later. We’re talking about children’s dental health on Medical Monday.
Dr. Latoya Barham, Board Certified Pediatric Dentist, Residency Director/Chair, Pediatric Dentistry, Howard University College of Dentistry.
(Washington, DC) — Children between nine and 13-years-old are being invited to apply for the District’s summer career exploration program. Each three-week program gives youth the chance to explore career options in athletics, public speaking, business and other fields. Children must be nine-years-old by September 30th to be eligible. More information about the Career-Ready Early Scholars Program is available online at summerjobs.DC.gov.
Jay-Z used his acceptance speech at the Grammy Awards to criticize the Recording Academy for flaws in their decision-making process.
He pointed out that his wife, Beyoncé, who has the most Grammy wins of any artist, has never won Album of the Year. “I don’t want to embarrass this young lady, but she has more Grammys than anyone, and never won album of the year,” referring to the 32 time Grammy winner.
He called on the Academy to “get it right” and acknowledged that music is subjective, but some decisions don’t make sense even by their own metrics.
Jay added, “When I get nervous, I tell the truth.” Bey has five Album of the Year nominations, most recently for Renaissance in 2023. Jay noted that it’s important in life to keep “showing up until they give you what you deserve.”
Jay-Z advised worthy artists to keep showing up and striving for greatness.
Jay-Z calls out the #Grammys for never giving Beyoncé the Album of the Year trophy, despite her record-setting 32 wins. pic.twitter.com/htakmJGEKH
Discussion: It’s a Medical Monday and this morning great information for those interested in a career in clinical research. There’s a free workshop taking place right here on the campus of Howard University later this week. My guest this morning is Kristin Holmes – Community Engagement Specialist for Research Centers in Minority Institutions at Howard University
Careers in Clinical Research Workshop hosted by Black Women In Clinical Research and The Research Centers In Minority Institutions Program will be held Friday, February 9th from 12pm to 2pm at the Blackburn Center at Howard University. Register at www.eventbrite.com/careers-in-clinical-researh-workshop
