This morning it’s all about Football…..Bison Football. The Howard University Bison Football team will be taking on Florida A&M University in the Cricket Celebration Bowl in Atlanta this Saturday, December 16th. It pits Howard, the MEAC Champions against the SWAC Champions for the Black College National Football Championship. The game will air on ABC at 12noon. My guest is Coach Larry Scott – Head Coach of the Howard University Bison Football team.
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The terrible, frightening and unpredictable days of the pandemic are behind us. What is not behind us is COVID. It is still very much around and people are still dying from it. On this Medical Monday, we’re telling you where we are with COVID, what’s ahead and what you can do to stay safe.
Resources: https://blackcoalitionagainstcovid.org/
Get connected and involved. Check out what non-profits are doing in this week’s Community’s Choice
Kick the New Year off the healthy way. Registration is now open for Mayor Bowser’s Fit DC Fresh Start 5k Walk January 1st. www.fitdcfreshstart5k.com
Did you know that Black Men are the most likely Americans to die from lung cancer? Get the facts and know where to go for a screening. The American College of Radiology has tips. www.acr.org
Grab your sneakers and join Girl Trek for their weekly walks. There are meet-ups across the DMV. www.girltrek.org
With reading scores at an all time low, Reading Is Fundamental says the holidays will be a good time to give the gift of reading. www.rallytoread.org
Help shelter pets enjoy the holidays. The Prince George’s County Animal Shelter is in need of stuffed animals and other toys cats and dogs enjoy. www.princegeorgespets4us.com
DC residents don’t get caught out in the cold. The DC Public Service Commission is handing out free home weatherization items at public libraries thru January 17th. www.dcpsc.org
Housing discrimination on the basis of national origin is against the law. If you have been a victim, contact Housing Counseling Services. www.housingetc.org
To get your non-profit on the air and web, email Renee Nash at rnash@whur.com at least three weeks before your event.
(Washington, DC) — Former Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani’s defamation case heads to court today in D.C. to find out how much he owes for spreading lies about two Georgia election workers. The former New York City mayor has already been found liable for defamation for comments about Ruby Freeman and her daughter Shaye Moss after the 2020 presidential election. He accused them of manipulating ballots, leading to threats against the two and Freeman to move from her home.
(Upper Marlboro, MD) — Two people, including a child are dead in what Prince George’s County police believe was a domestic-related incident Sunday. Officials were called to a medical center in the 12-hundred block of Mercantile Lane at around 1 pm for a welfare check. They reportedly found a man and a child in the car, dead of gunshot wounds; both were declared dead at the scene. Authorities say the two were related and that the incident appears to have been a murder-suicide.
My guest this morning has launched an initiative calling for a moratorium on Black On Black Crime for the first 3 days of December. While the initial moratorium has passed, he’s now looking to spread the message and initiative. My guest is Keith Turner – Founder and Organizer of the No Black On Black Crime Movement
The No Black On Black Crime Movement is an effort to get the Black community to come together and put a halt to the crime and violence plaguing the region. Programs and services are being put in place to assist youth and others to help make communities safer. For more information go here: www.noblackcrime.com
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Tis the season for holiday office parties. Big company or small, they can be fun and festive. But they’re also much more than that. They can be strategic opportunities for your career.
(Fairfax, VA) — The school board in Fairfax County says it will take about 100-thousand dollars to rename a high school before the start of the next school year. School members voted to change the name of W.T. Woodson High School last month after learning that former superintendent Wilbert Tucker Woodson opposed desegregation. The school will be renamed for Carter G. Woodson, a historian who helped originate the study of Black history in the United States. A school name change would usually cost around 300-thousand dollars, but the school district says it will cost less since some items at the high school simply say “Woodson” and won’t need to be replaced.
Making the holiday wishes of needy youth come true. WHUR is gearing up for our Annual Toy Drive and our goal is to bring smiles to the faces of needy youth across the DMV. Joining me this morning is a group always in the giving spirit to help us with the Toy Drive. My guest is Michael Summers – President of Top Flight Corvette Club
21st Annual WHUR Toy Drive is Saturday, December 9th from 12pm to 4pm at the Shops at Iverson -3737 Branch Avenue in Hillcrest Heights, Maryland. Bring a new unwrapped toy to make this holiday season a joyous one for a needy youth. For more information go here: www.whur.com
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We’re at the Reporters’ Roundtable to discuss some of the top stories of the week. We also talk to a local news-maker. Prince George’s County Councilmember Ingrid Watson joins the discussion.
Part 1
Part 2
UPDATE:
A gunman opened fire at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) on Wednesday, killing three people and leaving another critically injured.
This incident comes just six years after the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history occurred in Las Vegas. Since the start of this year, over 630 mass shootings have claimed lives across the U.S.
UNLV students and staff were urged to “RUN-HIDE-FIGHT” during the shooting, and many expressed a sense of inevitability about mass shootings in America.
Some survivors of previous shootings in Las Vegas expressed frustration that they have had to hide from active shooters multiple times.
ORIGINAL:
(Las Vegas, NV) — Police are ordering students and faculty of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas to remain sheltered in place, even after an active shooter was declared dead.
The Metropolitan Police Department confirmed the shooter was deceased, but did add there “appears to be multiple victims at this time.”
Officers are clearing every building one at a time. There is a ground-stop at the city’s airport. There will be a police news conference soon.
(Washington, DC) — There were a lot of empty desks in DCPS classrooms last year. Stats released this week by the Office of the DC State Superintendent of Education show that 40-percent of students were absent for at least ten percent of school days, which equates to 18-plus days of classes. The issue affected low-income areas the most, where some schools reported that 90-percent of students missed more than ten days.
Recently, Andre 3000 shared with CBS News more about his new album and why this project represents his departure from rap music.
Andre said, “We’re the loudest that we’ve ever been. At one point, the album was called Everything Is Too Loud. But then I just felt like that’s a negative title.” He continued, “You know? I didn’t want to put negative energy out. So I was like, ‘What’s a positive way to say the same thing?’ So New Blue Sun is introducing a new kind of volume, you know? It’s looking past the complaint and trying to figure out, well, what can we do about it?”
He added, “Like I’m 48 now. I think like the older you get, you kind of get this skin or this…protective layer that’s like…things kind of roll off or you better because you have a better understanding of the rollercoaster in a way.”
Andre continued, “I don’t sit and try to rap every day like when I was younger, and that’s all I did when I was younger. I miss those times a lot, but it’s like life changes, life moves on.”
Legendary TV producer Norman Lear has died at the age of 101.
According to Variety, it was confirmed by his publicist, “he died at his home in Los Angeles of natural causes. A private service for immediate family will be held in the coming days.”
Lear created a string of groundbreaking sitcoms in the 1970s and 80s, including All In The Family, The Jeffersons, Maude, and One Day At A Time.
His shows were famous for combining humor with social commentary, touching on hot-button issues like racism and women’s liberation. His production company Act III Communications also produced movies like The Princess Bride, Stand By Me, and Fried Green Tomatoes.
The Lear family said, “Norman lived a life of creativity, tenacity, and empathy. He deeply loved our country and spent a lifetime helping to preserve its founding ideals of justice and equality for all. Knowing and loving him has been the greatest of gifts. We ask for your understanding as we mourn privately in celebration of this remarkable human being.”
Something this morning to help you get into the holiday spirit. It’s the Annual Community Sing-Along Concert of Handel’s Messiah. It’s happening December 13th a Bowie State University. My guest is Professor Brandon Felder – Conductor, Music Director at Bowie State University
The Annual community Sing-along Concert of Handel’s Messiah is Wednesday December 13th at 7:30pm at Bowie State University Fine and Performing Arts Center. The concert is free and open to the public. For more information go here: www.bowiestate.edu
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This parenting discussion is just perfect for the holidays. How do you tell your children “no” during the season of giving and not feel guilty about it?
(Arlington, VA) — Several streets remain closed in the Arlington neighborhood where a house exploded last night. Video of the violent blast that leveled a brick home about a half-mile west of the Ballston-MU Metro station has gone viral. Federal investigators are working with local officials to determine the cause. Police were called to the home Monday afternoon after the man who lived there fired off a flare gun about three dozen times. Hours later, officers heard rounds from a firearm being discharged inside the house just as they were preparing to execute a search warrant and the explosion occurred shortly thereafter. Authorities still don’t know what happened to the man, who neighbors describe as a little bizarre.
Officials are investigating a massive explosion that destroyed a duplex in Arlington, Virginia, a suburb located across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C.
According to Arlington County police, a statement released says, “They were first called to the 800 block of N. Burlington Street around 4:45 p.m. ET after receiving a report of possible gunshots.”
The explosion occurred while officers were trying to serve a search warrant at the residence. The suspect fired several shots inside the home before the explosion happened. The explosion destroyed a duplex and shook the suburb.
The Arlington County Fire Department responded to the explosion.A ladder truck sprayed water on the remains of the building
Arlington County Police Department is leading the investigation. NPR reported, that three officers were injured, but not taken to the hospital and the status of the suspect in unclear. At this moment, no further details have been released at this time.
Cultivating Christian leadership skills for youth. That’s the primary goal of my guest this morning who is on a mission to help get youth center and focus on understanding their lives matter. She’s part of a conference coming up targeting youth ages 10-18. My guest is Tonya Miles – President of Ezra Youth Seminary
Registration is now open for Ezra Youth Seminary’s 5th Annual Leadership Conference. The conference will be held on January 27th at the Museum of the Bible. For more information go here: www.ezrasomebodiness.eventbrite.com
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This is supposed to be the season of good tidings and joy. But some people just are not feeling it. They have what we commonly call the holiday blues. What is it and how can we get rid of them?
Resources:
https://iwanttoberestored.com/
DC Access Helpline: 888-793-4357
NAMI: 800-273-2855 or Text 838255
Suicide Lifeline: 988
(Washington, DC) — A jury will decide how much Rudy Giuliani will have to pay for defaming two Georgia election workers in 2020. Giuliani earlier this year was found liable of defaming poll workers by claiming the two women were helping steal the election from former President Trump. A federal judge in Washington, DC on Sunday denied Giuliani’s request to hold a bench trial instead of a jury trial. The jury trial will begin December 11th. Giuliani accused poll workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss of committing election fraud in Atlanta, claims that were ultimately found to be untrue.
According to the St.Louis American this weekend Nelly’s Black White Ball returned to the city!
During the ball, Nelly, is caught on video rubbing Ashanti’s belly was posted online, which triggered fans to believe that Ashanti, could be pregnant with Nelly’s baby. The two were on stage
The couple didn’t say anything on stage about expecting, but the two of them have been spending a lot of time together since they reconciled their relationship which was confirmed in September.
Earlier, a fan commented on a picture of Ashanti and Nelly and told Nelly to get Ashanti pregnant as soon as possible, and Nelly confirmed that this was the plan.
Reportedly, Michael B. Jordan is doing okay after it was reported that he was in a car crash in Hollywood.
According to reports, the Creed 3 actor collided his blue Ferrari with a parked car at the intersection of North Beachwood Drive and Sunset Boulevard.
A close source said, “Jordan is OK and unharmed following the vehicle accident.” Out of prudence, he did not attend Sunday night’s Academy Museum Gala.
The Black Panther star hasn’t made any remarks in regards to the accident.
It was recently confirmed by Will Smith that Jordan will co-produce and star in the I Am Legend sequel. Currently, there is no official release date for the I Am Legend 2.
NBC reports that Derek Chauvin has been returned to prison custody after the former Minneapolis police officer was attacked by a fellow inmate. On November 24, Chauvin was stabbed 22 times with an “improvised knife” while he was in the Federal Correctional Institution of Tucson, Arizona’s law library. According to a criminal complaint, Chauvin was attacked by fellow inmate John Turscak.
Chavin’s attorney released a statement on December 3 saying that Chauvin’s , “medical condition has improved to the extent that he has been removed from the trauma care facility at a local Tucson hospital and returned to prison custody for his follow up care.”
His family is very concerned about the facility’s capacity to protect Derek from further harm. They remain unassured that any changes have been made to the faulty procedures that allowed Derek’s attack to occur in the first place, Gregory M. Erickson, Derek Chauvin’s attorney, via NBC.
NBC reports that the 52-year-old Turscak has been charged with attempted murder, assault with intent to commit murder, and assault with a dangerous weapon. Federal prosecutors said that Turscak has also been charged with assault resulting in serious bodily injury in connection with the stabbing.
According to prosecutors, Turscak said he chose “Black Friday” to attack Chauvin as a symbol for the Black Lives Matter movement. NBC reports that Chauvin is serving a sentence of over 22 years for the killing of George Floyd.
The former Minneapolis police officer is also simultaneously serving a 21-year federal sentence for violating Floyd’s civil rights. Chauvin is also serving a 22-and-a-half-year sentence for second-degree murder.
An excellent opportunity this morning for parents looking for something positive for your son to do this weekend. I have details about a free program focused on sexual health and awareness, empowerment and self-care, and dress for success. It’s called Project Alpha. My guest is Gene Carson, Sr. – Chair of Project Alpha, a National Program lead by the brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
The Kappa Epsilon Lambda Education Foundation and the Maryland National Capital Parks and Planning Commission are hosting Project Alpha December 9th at the Southern Regional Technology ad Recreation complex at 7007 Bock Road, Fort Washington Maryland. The program is for young males attending middle and high school. The program begins at 8:30a and ends at 4:30pm. For more information go here: www.kelef1906.org/project-alpha/
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What happens when a new relationship begins to bump up against the family gatherings or work, holiday parties and celebrations? What do you do? Do they get to go with you? How do you make that decision? How do you break it to them, if you don’t want them to go with you?
Three suspects are now in custody in connection with the murder of a Norfolk State University student from Prince George’s County. Twenty-year-old junior Jahari George was gunned down off campus back in September. Authorities say Marquas Gregg, Camari Warren and Cameron Brown are being held without bond on second-degree murder charges. The university issued a statement, saying they hope the news will help friends and family, quote, “find solace in knowing the individuals responsible will be brought to justice.” George was a Junior, majoring engineering. He was from Accokeek and was a graduate of Suitland High School.
This week, Ice Cube and Kimberly Woodruff celebrated their 31st wedding anniversary. Cube uploaded a carousel of him and Woodruff on Instagram on November 28 to honor their love.
Controversial social media blogger Latasha Kebe, known best as Tasha K, celebrated the rapper’s 30-year marriage with a video. “Let me tell you how clean this is, he cleaner than Denzel Washington,” she said, noting another actor who has been married for nearly four decades to Pauletta Washington. “We gotta show them some love.”
Compared to other celebrity couples to whom she reveals degrading and embarrassing information, Tasha K’s kindness surprised her fans.
One commentator said, “Man I was ready to say dam Tasha got dirt on everyone,” and another wrote, “The first time I heard you be nice.” Some speculated that the N.W.A. rapper spoke with the blogger before she shot the video, saying, “Cube says don’t play with him.”
December 1 is World AIDS Day, a day to come together to end the HIV epidemic across the globe. We all have a role to play, so let’s work together.
According to CDC, “HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. If HIV is not treated, it can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). There is currently no effective cure. Once people get HIV, they have it for life. With proper medical care, HIV can be controlled. People with HIV who get effective HIV treatment can live long, healthy lives and protect their partners.”
If you need help finding an HIV care provider near you, visit locator.hiv.gov.
It’s that time of year family that we all have to do a little more to help our neighbors in need. Giant is helping to lead the way. The grocery chain has launched its “Lend A Hand for Hunger Campaign.” Joining me this morning to tell us all about it is Jon Arons – Communications and Community Relations Manager
Giant is proud to announce their annual “Lend A Hand for Hunger” campaign to benefit five area Feeding America food banks – Capital Area Food Bank, Maryland Food Bank, Food Bank of Delaware, Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank, and Blue Ridge Area Food Bank
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What does it mean to be a legal, safe, responsible, gun owner? We sit down with a licensed qualified firearms instructor about to talk about safety, permits and gun laws.
Resoures for gun safety instruction:
Licenced Qualified Firearms Instructor Quiana Roberts
District of Columbia Firearms Information
Maryland State Police Firearms FAQ
DC clergy step up to address crime and violence in their community. They’re offering a FREE Peace Camp for young people for two weeks in August. Click the link below to register.
https://ward4faithleaders.com/peace-camp/
5/30/2024 Opportunity for DMV-area high school students to get an inside look at automotive industry careers.
The Future Leaders in Mobility Program is a week-long experiential program hosted by Volkswagen Group of America (VWGoA) in partnership with the Greater Washington Urban League.
APPLY HERE, DEADLING IS MONDAY, JUNE 2ND! https://www.gwul.org/futureleaders
Twenty-five rising juniors and seniors in high school will participate in interactive presentations and activities involving brands and departments, along with key topics that influence transportation today. In this immersive program, participating students will engage in and observe the various exciting automotive career paths such as manufacturing, engineering, marketing, public relations, finance, and dealership operations.
The program will run from, August 5-9, 2024, between the hours of 9:00 am – 4:00 pm at the VWGoA U.S. headquarters located at 1950 Opportunity Way, Reston, VA 20190.
Information and registration: https://www.metfest.com/
5/16/2024 Job Opportunities and Career Guidance for Youngsters in Prince George’s County
Information and registration: https://www.employpg.org/bridging-the-gap/
4/25/2024 Strategies to Address Disruptive Juveniles and Gun Violence
Stop the Violence Youth Event Athletic Republic Capital Region 6417 Marlboro Pike, District Heights, MD 20747 Saturday, April 27th, 12p-3p
4/18/2024 Activists Provide Safe Activities and Safe Spaces During DCPS Spring Break
Founded in 2016, Good Projects started with the Credible Messenger program, reaching students ages 18–21, setting them on a path to success. But as the Dream matured, the founders realized that in order to break the cycle of generational poverty, the GOOD needed to begin– and end– with families.
Pep Rally For Peace mission statement:
4/4/2024 Adult Literacy Education
We discuss how adult literacy is the path leading away from the social ills in the communty.
For more than 35 years, Academy of Hope Adult Public Charter School has provided high-quality education, career and student support services that change lives and improve communities.
Located in Washington, DC and serving residents ages 18 and older, we support more than 800 adult learners each year, whether they come to us looking to complete their high school education, gain a diploma, take college courses, develop job skills or advance in their careers.
3/21/2024 Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates
We compare and contrast criminal justice reform between Baltimore City and Prince George’s County.
3/14/2024 Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy
This may be one of the most critical times for county’s top prosecutor. There’s been an uptick in juvenile crime, concern in the community about public safety and criminal justice bills have grabbed headlines and the attention of Maryland lawmakers in Annapolis.
3/7/2024 Former Montgomery County Police Chief On Making Communities Better/Safer
Clarence Edwards has more than 38 years of extensive experience directing critical law enforcement, security and contingency management operations for agencies at the county, state, and federal level. He currently is an independent law enforcement and security consultant. He was Assistant Commissioner of the Federal Protective Service, then within the United States General Services Administration (GSA). Edwards began his law enforcement career with the United States Park Police and retired from that force in 1984 holding the rank of major. He subsequently served as commander of the Maryland-National Capital Park Police from 1985 until 1991 when he was appointed chief of police for Montgomery County, Maryland. He was Maryland’s first African American county police chief and served in this capacity until 1994.
2/22/2024 Reaching Young People About Crime and Violence
Young Mindz, Inc., https://youngmindzincorporated.com/
The Young Mindz Incorporated (Y.M.I.) mission is to build community leaders by giving
at risk youths a sound alternative to gang membership. Y.M.I. promotes the deproliferation of gang membership and provides our at risk youths with a family structure. Where possible,Y.M.I. seeks to change the direction of existing gangs. Y.M.I. seeks to lead all at risk youths towards a personal and life changing encounter by empowering them with the tools to become leaders within our communities.
2/1/2024 Youth Crime and Services for Young Families
Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative: https://www.fsfsc.org/
Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative (FSFSC) was formally established in April 1996 through a Neighborhood Collaborative Capacity Grant made possible through the federal Family Preservation and Support Act.
In seeking to build a healthy community, FSFSC embraced the following values:
All children need and deserve stable and healthy families.
All families need a safe neighborhood and supportive community in which to live.
Children and families need educational, occupational, and economic opportunities.
Civic pride and community vitality can be fostered through the participation of residents in community affairs.
DC Office of Safety and Neighborhood Engagement: https://onse.dc.gov/
Our mission is to foster community-based strategies to help prevent violence and increase public safety. Our strategy is rooted in a public health approach to violence prevention, recognizing that reducing crime is not accomplished through law enforcement alone.
DC Councilmember At-Large Robert White, Jr.: https://dccouncil.gov/council/councilmember-robert-c-white-jr/
1/25/2024 Supporting Survivors of Gun Violence and Other Crimes
Maryland Crime Victims Resource Center, Inc. https://www.mdcrimevictims.org/
MCVRC’s victim advocates and attorneys serve victims of crime in every jurisdiction in the State of Maryland by providing a diversity of services including: information, referral and assistance; direct legal representation; court accompaniment; support groups; community education; criminal justice education; policy advocacy; technical assistance for allied professionals and criminal justice agencies; and faith-based referrals.
Ayana J. McAllister Legacy Foundation: https://ayanamcallister.com
The mission of the Ayana J. McAllister Foundation is to deliberately engage minority communities disproportionately impacted by gun violence through advocacy and educational strategies. Our intention is to significantly reduce incidents of homicide, suicide and acts of violence resulting from the irresponsible use of firearms by high risk individuals.
1/18/2024 Resources For Youth, Fathers And Boys In Prince George’s County
The Prince George’s County Commission on Fathers, Men and Boys https://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/boards-commissions/commission-fathers-men-and-boys
The Prince George’s County Commission on Fathers, Men and Boys is an advisory board established in 2019. It provides guidance to the County Executive, the County Council, County agencies, and the public on issues and needs of fathers, men and boys in Prince George’s County, MD according to Council Bill 9-2017. The Commission empowers fathers, men and boys, by advocating policies and procedures that support issues concerning this associated group.
Free Prince George’s Community College Tuition https://www.pgcc.edu/go/scholarships/local-impact-grant/
Men’s Challenge Events for February https://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/tags/mens-challenge
Men Under Construction Rights of Passage and Young Men Development https://www.galilee-cdc.org/men-under-construction
1/11/2024 Mentoring Young Black Males
Yaay Me! https://www.yaayme.org/
YAAY ME, INC. will transform communities through transforming: youth and adults, their families and those who serve them. We will achieve this through our principles of leadership (self & community), self-education, character education and career exploration.
Reality Check Mentoring, Inc. https://realitycheckmentor.org/
To encourage personal growth in young males of color, ages 10-17, through mentoring focused on character development and education geared toward life skills, social and cultural awareness, conflict resolution, and critical thinking.
1/4/2024 Help for Single Parents and Conflict Resolution in the Community
DC Action
https://www.wearedcaction.org/
https://www.instagram.com/wearedcaction/?hl=en
Youth Town Hall 5-8PM January 17th, Ages 11-22 1816 12th Street, NW, DC
We’re uniting all those fighting on behalf of DC’s children and youth to pursue a single, shared vision for what it looks like to grow up in our city. Because, while childhood exists on a continuum from birth to adulthood, the systems, programs and organizations designed to support our children and youth are too often fragmented by age.
Together with our young people, parents and community partners, we’re advocating with one voice for public policies that support kids at every step from early childhood to early adulthood. We are stronger, louder and more effective together. And, whether we are focused on helping a toddler learn her letters or a young man pursue his professional passion, we share one goal: that all of DC’s children and youth grow up safe, resilient, powerful, and heard.
One Flag Charities, Inc. https://oneflag202.org/
One flag is a Washington, DC., community based organization deprived of members that are native Washingtonians with some being returning citizens. This organization has been formed in response to the growing number of homeless and low income families in the Washingtonian Metro Area. Our mission is not just to provide meals to the growing homeless and poverty stricken community, but to engage the community in the fight against hunger as well as provide and assist with conflict resolution with our Nation’s youth. Violence amongst the youth has devastated our community and our hope is to provide education and tools to assist our young in making more sound decisions. One flag has expanded and added a West Coast chapter which is based on Los Angeles, CA comprised of of former gang members and ex-offenders whom now are successful returning citizens geared towards giving back to their communities. These are brothers who are committed to changing the conditions within the inner city of Los Angeles, CA. Some One Flag Members were once deemed apart of the problem but are fully committed to being a huge part of the solution.
12/14/2023 Vocational Education for Young Women and Prince George’s County Students
Resources:
YWCA National Capital Area: Young Women In The Trades
https://www.ywcanca.org/ywomen-in-the-trades
The goal of the YWIT program is to expose more women to the non-traditional trades. We want more women placed in apprenticeship programs and jobs. Women only make up 14% of active apprentices and only 4% of the workforce in construction trades. The average salary for workers in the trades is $50 – 70K, according to Salary.com 2023. Through this program, you will receive help preparing to pass entrance exams, interviews and the job application process.
Prince George’s County Public Schools Career Technical Education
Career Technical Education (CTE) provides students of all ages with the academic and technical skills, career-oriented exposure, and the knowledge and training necessary to succeed in future careers and to become lifelong learners. Students may also gain work experience through internships, job shadowing, on-the-job training, and industry-certification opportunities. Students in CTE programs may opt to enter the workforce upon graduating from high school or they may matriculate to a college or university.
12/7/2023 Men’s Groups Step Up
Last week we heard from several woman-led organizations, working to improve our communities. This week, we hear from men who are doing the same.
Resources:
Project Alpha: https://www.kelef1906.org/
Stem 4 Us: https://www.stem4us.org/
SAFEO (Student Athletes for Educational Opportunities): https://www.safeo.org/
11/30/2023 Single Mothers Raising Black Boys
We don’t have to tell you some of the uncomfortable truths behind the wave of carjackings and robberies in the DMV. Many of these crimes are committed by black boys and young black men. Some, not all, but some are coming from single mother households. In 2022 of the 4.15 million black families in the u-s, 3.4 million are headed by single mothers. We’re talking to single mothers who are raising black boys and changing the narrative in their communities.
Resources:
http://rehabilitatingourcommunityiskey.org/
11/6/2023 Teen Programs
You’ve probably seen the viral video of what appear to be very young DC teenagers, contemplating committing a crime and debating the possible charges. It is a heartbreaking glimpse into the state of some of our young people in the DMV. Even as we see this happening, we’re very aware that the community is crying out for resources, programs, help of any kind keep our teenagers on the right track. For this Take Back Our Community Thursday, we’re bring some of the those resources to you.
Resources:
https://www.tisfoundation.org/
http://www.lightthewayfoundation.org/
(Washington, DC) — Embattled New York Congressman George Santos is facing a third expulsion vote on Friday. It’ll take a two-thirds vote to kick the GOP freshman to the curb in a House narrowly controlled by Republicans. The effort failed the first two rounds but even Santos expects he’ll be ousted this time and is telling colleagues, “either put up or shut up.” Santos has pleaded not guilty to 23 federal charges involving laundering campaign money and ripping off donors. Despite the allegations and a scathing House Ethics Committee report, House Speaker Mike Johnson says he has “real reservations” about expelling Santos who hasn’t been convicted.
Actress, writer, and producer Issa Rae has emphasized the importance of having multiple streams of income in a recent interview with Billboard.
Rae, who recently launched a recording company called Raedio, said she models herself after successful entrepreneurs such as Oprah, Ellen, and others for their knowledge and experience. Raedio is an audio content company with publishing, live events, music supervision, a music library, and a label
She credits her business acumen to her experience on the internet, where she learned about marketing and building a team. In addition to Raedio, Rae has also partnered Los Angeles-based creatives with a coffee shop in Inglewood and invested in a streaming analytics business. The coffee shop, Hilltop, is a community-driven endeavor that aligns with Rae’s passions
The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl creator and author is proud to highlight and amplify meaningful businesses, believes having multiple streams of income is key to success, and enjoys feeling like a leader and accomplishing projects.
DomiNque Perry, who has a child with her Insecure co-star, has filed new documents in a California Superior Court alleging that Sarunas Jackson has mentally and physically abused her.
The documents allege, “She experienced emotional volatility, intimidation, bullying, undeserved stress, mental and physical abuse, controlling and narcissistic behavior, all over the past 5 plus years from Sarunas and his family.”
She claimed, “He became more angry and grabbed me by the throat and started choking me. He was so angry that he had blood coming from his mouth where he bit his tongue.”
Jackson replied to the allegations and added, “It is unclear where Respondent’s allegations of emotional volatility and intimidation are coming from. My family and I have always welcomed Respondent with open arms, inviting her to family events and showing her love and support in more ways than one. In return, Respondent has defamed my character to others, making them believe I am an absent father.”
Tis the season for giving and putting smiles on the faces of our youth. But the DC lottery has a reminder about lottery tickets and children. It’s part of their Gift Responsibly Campaign. My guest is Peter Avarado – Regulation and Oversight Directorfor the Office of DC Lottery and Gaming
For more than 40 years, the DC Lottery has been a thread in the cultural fabric of the District of Columbia. Awarding more than $4.4 billion in prizes to our players; transferring $2.3 billion to the District’s General Fund in support of essential city services and helping local nonprofits raise $136.5 million in support. If you or someone you know has a gambling addiction, call the confidential helpline at 800-426-2537 or visit the play responsibly page at dclottery.com
Listen to this mornings segment here:
Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, the diplomat with the thick glasses and gravelly voice who dominated foreign policy as the United States extricated itself from Vietnam and broke down barriers with China, died Wednesday, his consulting firm said. He was 100.
With his gruff yet commanding presence and behind-the-scenes manipulation of power, Kissinger exerted uncommon influence on global affairs under Presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford, earning both vilification and the Nobel Peace Prize. Decades later, his name still provoked impassioned debate over foreign policy landmarks long past.
We’re at the Reporters’ Roundtable, talking about some of the top stories of the week. On deck, as you might imagine, crime in the DMV, from the mayor’s crime bill, to community meetings and dognappings. DC area hospitals are seeing spikes in visits because of a mysterious respiratory illness in children. What does the dust up between Hip-Hop star T-I and his son King Harris, say about pop-culture image, and private family business going public? We’ll even talk about the National Christmas tree taking a topple at The White House.
Part 1
Part 2
According to BET, Kelsey Grammer recently addressed a potential Girlfriends reboot and whether he would be interested in making it come to life.
Grammer said, “I would love to reboot Girlfriends. Of course, it would probably be a different kind of show, but we got The Game back on and that was wonderful.”
He continued, “I don’t know if Paramount+ is gonna grab another season of that but you never know. I think they should because I know many people who love that show and love those characters and would like to see them continue. We’ll see what happens.”
He added, “But yeah, I would love to reboot Girlfriends and I would love to see Tracee [Ellis Ross] in that role again. She was terrific in that. The show was a wonderful opportunity to see all those young women start out. It’s such a beautiful ensemble effort and I was very proud to be connected to that.”
Join Inner Caucus Ent, WHUR-FM and CultureFest for the NYE International Gala, December 31st from 8:30p to 2:30a at the Washington Marriott at Metro Center!
776 12th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20006
For Tickets and Hotel Reservations, please visit: InnerCaucus.com
CELEBRATING 31 YEARS OF SHOP TIL YOU DROP!
Come Shop Til You Drop!
December 2nd, 9th, 16th, 22nd and 23rd
Shiloh Family Life Center
1510 9th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
General Admission is A SMILE!
202.550.7060
Visit bzbinternational.com for more information
The Washington Association of Black Journalists is doing some big things to help promote the culture and lay the foundation for future budding journalists. A gala is coming up. Plus they are accepting applications for their upcoming workshop. My guest is Khorri Atkinson – President of the Washington Association of Black Journalists
The Urban Journalism Workshop is an annual program that teaches journalism fundamentals thru interactive lectures, hands-on-training and field trips. The 2024 Application process is open for DC area high school students. The deadline is January 7th. For more information go here: www.wabjdc.org
Listen to this mornings segment here:
What are you doing to stay safe during the holiday shopping season? You have reason to be concerned. DC has reached the 250 homicide mark, the most in 20 years. Carjackings in the region are skyrocketing and police across the DMV are focused on crime in retail area. We can you do to make it through the holidays without becoming a crime victim? We’re sharing tips and strategies.
(Washington, DC) — DMV residents are getting the season’s first serious blast of finger-numbing cold today. Forecasters say highs won’t make it out of the 30s today in DC and coupled with the steady and gusty winds, real-feel temps will stay below freezing all day. A Gale Warning is in effect for the Chesapeake Bay and lower tidal Potomac until 6:00 tonight. Lows tonight in the District will dip into the 20s and the wind chill will be in the teens. It’ll be even colder in the suburbs.
Ladies it’s time to call your bestie and tell her to get ready for an evening of networking, fun, while helping a great organization give back to the community. It’s Girls Night Out by Shawn Yancy. My guests this morning are Shawn Yancy – Founder and CEO of Girls Night Out and Molette Green – Member of Girls Night Out and MC of the event
Girls Night Out by Shawn Yancy Holiday Bazaar & Ultimate Day Party Fundraiser 2023 is Saturday, December 9th from 3pm to 7pm at the Westin Washington, DC City Center. www.gnobyshawnyancy.org
Listen to this mornings segment here:
Beyoncé was called “shimmering” and “stunning” at the Renaissance concert movie debut, but internet commentators disagreed.
The singer’s Versace gown and waist-length hair in “a Targaryen-worthy shade of ice blonde” for the movie premiere were odd, with some comparing her to Kim Kardashian.
“I thought this was Kim Kardashian until I read the caption,” wrote a commenter on a Neighborhood Talk repost of Bey’s photos from the event, while another added, “So Kim is brown. Bey is white. Got it.”
Needless to say many feel that Beyoncé overdid it with the bleach-blonde hair at her premiere.
Some fans did come to the glamorous Mrs. Carter’s side by highlighting, “I can tell a lot of y’all know absolutely NOTHING about hair color, skin tones, Lighting etc! Also, She is of Creole descent as well. Yall think everybody bleach. Use your common sense sometimes!”
Another explained, “If you’ve ever seen Beyoncé in person you know she’s very pale and spray tans … this her natural color.”
Click HERE to see the photos.
Jean Knight, the singer best known for the hit song “Mr. Big Stuff,” has died at age 80. Knight, a New Orleans native, died on Nov. 22, but the cause of death was not disclosed.
Former Louisiana Music Commission executive director Bernie Cyrus said in a statement, “She was the first person we appointed on the board when we took it over, and we had a long relationship with her, and she was just fabulous. She was always willing to get involved with good causes and help out.”
“Mr. Big Stuff” was a No. 1 R&B hit and a top 10 pop hit in 1971.
Tiffany Haddish broke her silence over her DUI arrest. Less than 24 hours after getting cuffed on Beverly Drive, the comedian responded to an audience member who asked, ‘What happened last night,’ during a stand-up show.
‘What happened last night?’ she replied, before taking a long pause as the crowd laughed and applauded. ‘I don’t know, you tell me.’
She then played coy, before musing that her prayers were answered, ‘I prayed to God to send me a man with a job. A career. Preferably in a uniform. God answered my prayers,’ she quipped.
This is the second DUI for the Girls Trip star where she’s fallen asleep at the wheel. In 2022, she had a similar experience in Georgia.
The March of Dimes has released it’s 2023 Preterm Birth Report Card for the nation. The results across the country are mixed. But the premature birth numbers for Black women remain grim.
Why is that is the case? What can be done about it?
Resources:
https://www.marchofdimes.org/report-card
(Alexandria, VA) — A Metropolitan Police Department officer has been relieved of duties after his arrest in Virginia on Thanksgiving Eve. State police report a Tesla operated by Officer Peter McCauley was clocked at 95 miles per hour in a 55 mph zone on Interstate 395. McCauley is alleged to have sped off and the chase continued into Alexandria where he crashed into a second car near Seminary Road. McCauley, a woman riding with him, and the driver of the second vehicle were all taken to area hospitals. McCauley is 22 and has been a member of MPD for over three years. He has been charged with a felony count of eluding police, had his powers revoked, and is on non-contact status.
Uncle Luke is responding to Gloria Velez‘s recent revelations. Taking to Instagram Live, the ex-2 Live Crew leader blasted the podcast host for her accusations, claiming that he’s always minded the legalities around working with minors due to his own signings to his label.
“We know the rules and the regulations of this sh-t,” he began. “You know what you got to do when you sign an underage person? You gotta go get consent by the court. The kid gets his own lawyer, parents get their own lawyer, then you have your lawyer. That’s how you — man, I don’t play about that paperwork!”
He continued: “I ain’t none of them dude’s man. I don’t know what the fu-k they talkin’bout. So make it make sense. Bring all the smoke. I ain’t hard to find. I’m not hard to find. Everybody gon’run with their own thing and create their own narrative.”
