Blog

Phobias: What Are You Afraid Of?

This is perfect conversation for Halloween night. What are you afraid of? Are you afraid of the dark, maybe it’s spiders, afraid of heights, what about your sister-in-law’s holiday casserole. Just kidding. But phobias are a real thing for a lot of people.

Resources:

https://www.ceandersonlive.com/about

Ce Anderson, Licensed Psychotherapist

DC Leaf Collection Begins With Changes

(Washington, DC) — Time to sweep up those leaves. The D.C. Department of Public Works is starting to collect them all, but in a new way. Instead of crews using a fixed schedule, residents will now be notified two weeks in advance by way of door hangars. They’ll be asked to rake leaves into the tree boxes or edge of the curb. They can even check the status of streets that have or haven’t been cleared using a real-time, interactive map.

Prince George’s Boxer Heading To Olympics

(Oxon Hill, MD) — A Prince George’s County native is heading to the 2024 Olympic Summer Games. Twenty-year-old Jahmal Harvey of Oxon Hill just punched his ticket to Paris by winning gold at the Pan-Am Games in Santiago, Chile in boxing’s featherweight division. The Potomac High grad is on the same path as another longtime PG County resident, boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard, who won gold as a light welterweight at the 1975 Pan Am Games before going on to win the gold medal at the `76 Olympics in Montreal. Harvey has plenty of time to train as the Paris Olympics don’t start until the end of July.

Jahmal Harvey of the United States celebrates defeating Cuba’s Saidel Horta in a men’s boxing 57kg final bout at the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile, Friday, Oct. 27, 2023.

DC Musician Aaron Spears, Drummer For Ariana Grande, Passes Away At 47

Aaron Spears, a Grammy-nominated D.C. producer and drummer who worked with Ariana Grande, Usher, and Britney Spears, has died at 47. 

Spears’ wife announced his death on Facebook Monday morning,” Aaron was not only an incredibly accomplished drummer admired by many for his unparalleled talent and passion for music.” She continues, “We appreciate all the thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Please remember Aaron for the incredible person he was and the amazing music he brought into our world.”

Spears played on the 2004 “Confessions” album by Usher, which earned him a Grammy nomination.  Season 3 of The Masked Singer included him as a music coordinator and percussionist. 

“I can’t wrap my head around this,” said Ariana Grande in an Instagram Story post. “We were all so incredibly lucky to know Aaron. The absolute brightest light of a human being. Always the kindest, always smiling. I am so honored and thankful that our paths crossed and to have spent so much very special time together.” 

The nature of his death hasn’t been released. 

Medical Monday: Food Addiction

We all love a good meal. A home-cooked dish, piled high with our favorite soul food. What about a thick, juicy steak, with mashed potatoes and a side broccoli. How about warm peach cobbler with a small, or large scope of vanilla ice cream? Sound good? For some, it sounds too good. Many Americans are struggling with overeating and food addiction. But how do you know? Once you figure it out, what can you do about it?

Udo Erasmus, Author/Health Advocate
Michelle Petties, Author/Health Advocate

Elrich Backs Alsobrooks For Senate

(Largo, MD) — Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks is receiving another high-profile endorsement in her bid to win the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by the retiring Ben Cardin. Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich made the announcement over the weekend, saying Alsobrooks is the best candidate to represent Maryland in the upper chamber of Congress. More than 100 Maryland leaders have endorsed Alsobrooks for the job. Her main opponent in the May Democratic primary is Maryland Congressman David Trone.

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich

Dave Dickinson, Affectionately Known As “Super Dave” Passed Away

Dave Dickinson, affectionately known as “Super Dave”, passed away Saturday, October 28th after a brief battle with cancer. 

Dave had a stellar radio career, having worked at several stations up and down the East Coast,  including here at 96.3 WHUR.  Dave was a beloved member of the WHUR family, starting as the Music Director in 1995,  where he helped to cement WHUR’s unique sound of the Adult Mix. 

He was also responsible for launching the careers of numerous artists like Jill Scott, Maxwell, and many more. While at 96.3 WHUR, he led the station to several Crystal Awards, a Marconi Award from the National Association of Broadcasters, and a Stellar Award.

Dave became WHUR’s Program Director, a position he held until 2010. The recipient of numerous industry awards, Dave loved music and radio.  He loved WHUR, and we loved him back.  It is with profound sadness that we mourn his passing.  But we take joy in the great memories of a well-lived life and his tremendous impact on this radio station and many others. 

WHUR sends our heartfelt condolences to Dave’s family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. 

Rest in power, Super Dave.  Keep the music playing!!!

‘Friends’ Star Matthew Perry Passes Away At 54 After Apparent Drowning

Matthew Perry, best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the popular sitcom “Friends” for 10 seasons has been found dead at his home at the age of 54.

Law enforcement sources reported that Perry was found unconscious in a hot tub at his Los Angeles home. There were no signs of foul play.

Perry had a history of battling addiction to painkillers and alcohol, he wrote of his struggles with addiction in a memoir about his experiences. During a recent “Friends” reunion, Perry revealed that he had suffered from severe anxiety during the show’s filming.

“There has to be some reason why I’m still here, having done all of this crazy stuff, and I came to the conclusion it’s to write a book that will help people who are going through the same thing that I am, or did,” Perry said. 

Earlier this week, he had posted a photo of himself on social media.

STD Transmission is On the Rise Nationwide

A sudden loss in state and local health department funding has resulted in the rise of sexually transmitted disease (STD) transmission across the United States.

In June, health departments found out the final two years of a $1 billion investment to track and prevent STDs was being canceled. This funding was canceled as part of the national debt ceiling deal passed by Congress and signed by President Joe Biden.

In Nevada alone, congenital syphilis transmission increased by 44% from 2021 to 2022. Mississippi and Texas are other stations that have seen similar increases. Syphilis transmission reached a low point in 2000 but has increased almost every year since.

Money and Marriage: A Success Story

Just behind infidelity, money problems in a marriage is the number two reason why they fail.
We’re talking to a couple that may have the secret for success when it comes to making the money game work.

Resources:

https://www.theovenue.com/

Estado and Chanel Outlaw, Co-Authors, “Merging Finances, An Interactive Couples Guide: 5 Essential Keys To Merging Your Finances Successfully”

Thousands To Run Sunday In Marine Corps Marathon

(Washington, DC) — More than 23-thousand runners from DC, all 50 states and 63 countries will be taking part in Sunday’s Marine Corps Marathon. The 48th edition opens with the 50K race at 7:15, followed by the wheelchair division at 7:50 and the marathon starts at 7:55. The 26-point-two-mile race starts in Arlington and meanders through DC before wrapping up at the Marine Corps War Memorial in Rosslyn. Dozens of road closures will be in effect in Arlington County and DC, but Metrorail is opening two hours early to help get everyone in and out easily.

Fans React To Kirk Franklin Being Picked Up By His Security Guard: “Imagine Being Picked Up Like A Toddler As A 50-Year-Old Man”

Kirk Franklin, is currently on “The Reunion Tour” with The Clark Sisters, Tye Tribbett, Israel Houghton ,and David and Tamela Mann.

During a recent tour stop in Washington, D.C., Franklin got off the stage and was lifted back up by his security guard, which left fans crying laughing. The moment was captured on video and went viral, with fans joking about Franklin being picked up like a toddler.

Watch the video here of Franklins reaction. Fans reacted with the funniest comments. One said, “He thought God grabbed him”.

Another referred to the movie Toy Story saying, “Picked him up like he was Woody.”

Others mocked how this situation played out, ” Kirk: (imma step up here) Security: “I AINT GOT TIME”.

This isn’t the first time Franklin has become a meme, as fans have long joked about his resemblance to rapper Plies. Franklin recently acknowledged the resemblance and said that he and Plies have discussed collaborating on a project for the community.

Russell Wilson Rented Out A Waffle House For Ciara’s 38th Birthday

While too many people are worried about whether Waffle House is suitable for a first date, Russell Wilson recently celebrated his wife Ciara‘s 38th birthday by renting out a Waffle House. So, Travis Kelce isn’t the only NFL player who’ll rent out an entire restaurant for his famous sweetheart.

Wilson even had the restaurant decorated with balloons, tablecloths, and a red carpet for the occasion – and capped things off with a big plate of birthday donuts. Ciara was loving it, telling her hubby it was “for sure one of the most epic things you’ve ever done.” She added, “My honey knows how much I love Waffle House!”

In a beautiful note to his wife, Wilson says, “You truly are Heaven sent, the perfect mother to our children, and God’s blessing to me as we get to do life together as Husband and wife. We are all truly BLESSED!! I’m so grateful that God put you into my life and we’ve been able to create an amazing (growing) family. God has so much in store for you this year of life and I can’t wait to see how much good will come from your presence and joy!!! I Thank Jesus for you every day! I Love You, Mrs. Wilson.”

Just beautiful.

“Take Back Our Community Thursday”

Crime in the DMV continues to rise. A lot of us are wondering if anything really being done to get things under control. Police and elected leaders say it’s going to take the entire community.
At WHUR we are also concerned. We want to look for solutions. We are launching “Take Back Our Community Thursday”. Every Thursday on The Daily Drum, we are going to speak with community groups and activists who are the boots on the ground soldiers, working to make our neighborhoods better.

Resources:

https://fast-dc.org/

https://code3.org/

https://www.vscdc.org/

Pastor Dale Sutherland, Chair, Code 3
Andrea Counts, Founder, F.A.S.T. DC
Paula Thompson, Executive Director, Voices For A Second Chance

Take Back Our Community Thursday

Crime in the DMV continues to rise with many asking will things ever get better. Police and elected leaders say it’s going to take the entire community. 

Here at WHUR we too are concerned and want to look for solutions.  That’s why we are launching “Take Back Our Community Thursday.” 

 Every Thursday on the Daily Drum with Harold Fisher, we’ll speak with community groups, activists, and more who are the boots-on-the-ground soldiers working to make our neighborhoods safer places to live, work, and visit. 

Take Back Our Community Thursday

Dwayne Johnson’s Wax Figure Gets an Update After Museum’s “Honest Mistake”

Dwayne Johnson’s new wax figure has been updated days after it debuted and was criticized for its lighter appearance at The Grévin Museum in Paris. In an Instagram video, the museum’s managing director said, “A week ago, we unveiled the Dwayne Johnson waxwork and we got a surprise when we put him under the lights. His skin tone seemed too pale. And suddenly we realized, we might have got it wrong.”

He continued, “It’s been a major task for the sculptor. We’re going to keep improving it! Long live Dwayne Johnson, who’s going to stop in and have a drink with us in Paris soon.”

Beyoncé Unveils Name And Look Of New ‘Cé Noir’ Fragrance

Beyoncé revealed the name and appearance of her highly anticipated new fragrance. “Beyoncé Parfums presents CÉ NOIR,” the 32-time Grammy Award winner shared underneath her 360-degree Instagram video of the perfume bottle. 

The bottle has a reflective chrome tone, similar to the motif and dress code of her recent Renaissance World Tour.  In French, “Cé Noir” can be loosely translated as “this black.”

The fragrance will sell for $160 and is said to feature a combination of clementine and golden honey as its top notes, followed by rose absolute and jasmine sambac as its heart notes, and finally, golden amber and Namibian myrrh as its base notes. 

It’s available to pre-order in hopes of arriving by November, just in time for the Holidays.

Mass Shooting Leaves At Least 16 Dead, Dozens Injured

UPDATE OCTOBER 26,2023 2:49PM

According to the Maine Police Department, the to of people dead is 18, and 13 others were injured in Wednesday night’s mass shooting. Currently, the search continues for the identified gunman Robert Card, a military-trained firearms instructor recently released from a mental facility. Police say is armed and dangerous.

While the search continues, all schools in Lewiston, Maine are canceled and resident are asked to remain inside.

ORIGINAL POST

Multiple people have been killed and dozens injured in an active shooter situation in Lewiston, Maine.

The incident took place at Spare Time Bowling Alley and Schmeges Pool Hall, about 4 miles apart. At least 20 people have died, according to ABC News, while CNN reports at least 22 deaths.

Law enforcement agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the FBI, are responding to the incident.

The number of casualties is expected to change as the investigation continues.

This story is developing.

Ask The Lawyers

Whether it’s a brush with the law, action taken against your business or getting your affairs in order… often you need a lawyer. We have our “Ask The Lawyer” segment. We’re talking to some of the best and brightest legal minds in studio.

Part 1

Part 2

William Lightfoot, Esq.,
Lightfoot Law, PLLC
Marlon Griffith, Esq., The Griffith Law Group, PLLC
Prince Williams, Esq., Avid Law Firm, LLC

House GOP Elects Speaker Of The House

(Washington, DC) — There’s a new Speaker of the House after the chamber was without a leader for more than three weeks. Louisiana Republican Mike Johnson received enough votes to win the Speaker-ship this afternoon following failed attempts from three of his fellow Republicans. Johnson was first elected to Congress in 2016 and sits on the House Judiciary Committee. He is replacing California Republican Kevin McCarthy who was recently voted out of his position by a handful of conservatives and Democrats. This comes as Congress is facing a long list of pressing issues, including passing legislation to fund the government before mid-November and providing aid to Ukraine and Israel.

Eminem Fans Demand New LP Amid Mom’s Spaghetti Sauce Announcement

Rapper Eminem has recently announced a new release; however, fans were expecting something different, and they are expressing their disappointment with the rap legend. In an Instagram post on Tuesday (October 24), Slim Shady revealed his latest creation: Mom’s Spaghetti Sauce.

He excitedly announced that it would be hitting the shelves later this week. Despite the anticipation from fans for the brilliant collaboration that pays tribute to his 2002 smash hit “Lose Yourself,” “His palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy. There’s vomit on his sweater already, mom’s spaghetti. He’s nervous, but on the surface, he looks calm and ready.”

Many were disappointed that it wasn’t a new album. “Marshall, the sauce we really want is the album,” one person commented, while another wrote: “Drop the bomb tracks tho Marshall.” Eminem hasn’t released an album since “Music To Be Murdered By” in 2020. 

Richard Roundtree Has Passed Away

Actor Richard Roundtree has died after a short battle with pancreatic cancer. 

Known for his role in the film Shaft, the New Rochelle, NY native would be known as the first Black action hero.

Richard appeared in countless other films like Moving On, George of the Jungle, Se7en, Amityville: A New Generation, and What Women Want. On-screen daughter, Taraji P. Henson posted, “Rest in paradise #RichardRoundtree the original Shaft“.

 His television career was just as decorated with roles in Roots, Generations, Desperate Housewives, and most recently, Ava DuVernay’s OWN series, Cherish the Day

News of his passing was released by his agency and his longtime manager, Patrick McMinn. Richard Roundtree was 81. 

Girls and the Challenges of Social Media

Straight from the headlines, 42 Attorneys General are suing META, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram. They claim the social media platforms are contributing to a mental health crisis for young people. Earlier this month Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks and County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy heard from young people about the impact of social media. We take a deeper dive, focusing on what effect social media has on our girls and how you can protect them.

Resources:

https://www.mommassafehaven.org/

 
Beverly Smith, Founder/Executive Director, Momma’s Safe Haven
Latasha Blackmond, Author,
“Be You, No Filter: How to Love Yourself and Stay #SocialMedia Strong”
Kadence Johnson, Sophomore,
Archbishop Carroll High School

Student Loans, Home-Ownership and the Challenge of Black Generational Wealth

Is generational wealth in the black community becoming a pipe dream? Is affording a college education getting in the way? What about home-ownership? Historically, it’s been one of the major factors in passing Black wealth to the next generation. We’re looking at this issue and what can be done about it.

Resources:

https://housingetc.org/

Ronald Clarkson, Communications and Outreach Director, Housing Counseling Services, Inc.
Dr. Gerald Daniels, Associate Professor, Economics, Howard University.

Baltimore Teen Squeegee Worker Sentenced

(Baltimore, MD) — A teenage squeegee worker convicted in the death of a baseball bat-wielding man in Baltimore last year is headed to prison. A judge on Monday sentenced 16-year-old Tavon Scott to 15 years behind bars and five years of probation. The teen was convicted of voluntary manslaughter and gun charges stemming from the confrontation that left Timothy Reynolds dead near the Inner Harbor. Scott was 14 at the time of the killing and sentencing was handed down after a judge earlier on Monday rejected a defense request to transfer the case to juvenile court.

Revival: Howard Homecoming 2023 Recap

HU! YOU KNOW!! 2023 made for great memories! From Yardfest, the FamFest , to Greek Step Show, to so much more!

The Bison family came out with pride! On top of a 23-27 win for the Howard Bison Football team over Norfolk State.

Don’t Miss Your Chance To Be 100! Disney Dreamers Academy Applications 

Calling High School Teens! Disney Dreamers Academy Applications Close on October 31, 2023 for the 2024 Class.

Apply or share the opportunity for a high school teenager to become a Disney Dreamer today. Details on the life-changing program can be found at  www.disneydreamersacademy.com

Reporters’ Roundtable

We’re at the Reporters’ Roundtable with the top stories of the week. War in Israel, still in search of a Speaker of the House on Capitol Hill, DC crime, what is excited delirium, RFK stadium and more.

Part 1

Part 2

Denise Rolark Barnes, Publisher, The Washington Informer Newspaper
Keith Alexander, The Washington Post

Prince George’s Council Votes to Limit Cannabis Dispensaries

(Upper Marlboro, MD) — Prince George’s County Council held a hearing Tuesday on a bill that would limit where new cannabis dispensaries could be located. Currently, dispensaries are allowed in areas zoned for industrial or light-industrial use. The amendment would have allowed for dispensaries in commercially zoned shopping centers. Residents blamed the legalization of marijuana for a rise in crime and quality of life problems, while business owners charged the bill damages to their growth. A final vote is expected in November.

Anti-War Protest At U.S. Capitol

(Washington, DC) — Protestors are inside the U.S. Capitol calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Dozens gathered in the rotunda in the Cannon House building chanting “ceasefire now!” There have been about 300 arrests so far. The protest comes as the war between Israel and Hamas continues to escalate following the bombing of a hospital in Gaza.

Israel/Hamas Anti-War Protests in the Cannon House Office Building Rotunda

Halle Bailey And DDG Pregnant Rumors Continue

Social media users are speculating whether Halle Bailey, star of The Little Mermaid, is pregnant with her partner Darryl Dwayne Granberry Jr.’s child.

Unfortunately, some have criticized the idea of Granberry being the father, calling him a “bum.” Granberry, who some are unaware, also found success in the entertainment industry. He recently posted photos of himself and Bailey on social media, captioning it with a message about people being too concerned with his life.

Halle Bailey and DDG attended the Glamour Women Of The Year Awards in London. The couple wore stunning matching all-black outfits, with Bailey donning a black velvet strapless minidress adorned with 3-D white roses. She accessorized with a diamond necklace and earrings, completing the look with a high ponytail and red lip.

During her acceptance speech, Bailey emphasized the importance of living life for oneself and not for social media. Rumors of Bailey’s pregnancy have been circulating, but she has yet to confirm or deny them.

Looking at our world, one could hope that Bailey and Granberry can live their life for themselves and in peace.

650+ New Coats Donated At WHUR Coat Drive

650+ New Coats Collected At 21st Annual WHUR Children’s Coat Drive

Washington, D.C. (Monday, October 16, 2023) – Rain showers were not enough to dampen the spirit of giving for WHUR listeners Saturday who were intent on making a difference in the lives of DMV youth. It was all part of the 21st Annual WHUR Children’s Coat Drive held at the Shops at Iverson. Dozens of listeners showed up to donate new coats, hats, and gloves for youngsters in need in the region.

WHUR personality Coka-Lani took her popular show on the road to the Shops at Iverson to encourage persons to stop by to help provide winter gear for needy youth ages 2 to 17. When the 4 hour broadcast was complete, over 650 coats were distributed equally to five non-profit organizations servicing youth and their families in the region.

In addition to the generous support of listeners, the success of the Coat Drive was made possible through the sponsorship by FedEx and a collaboration with Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

The Coat Drive kicks-off “WHUR’s Annual Season of Giving Campaign,” which also includes “Food2Feed,” a 12-hour radiothon Tuesday, November 14th; “The Steve Harvey Turkey Giveaway” Monday, November 27th; and the “WHUR Toy Drive” Saturday, December 9th

Quinta Brunson Talks ‘Abbott Elementary’ Challenges After Strike

Quinta Brunson recently opened up about the challenges she is facing as a writer post the writers’ strike for Abbott Elementary. Brunson said, “Our season will still be on the school calendar. [But] last year, we started airing in September, when school started. We’re not doing that this year.”

She continued, “It’s not like coming back to a family show where you can pop in on that family on any sitcom-y thing. It’s really like, what’s going on in the school?” She added, “We did 22 last season, and that’s a lot of TV, in particular for me because I’m writing and producing and starring in it. So for me, I welcomed a shorter season because it was tiring, exhausting work. Love it, but exhausting for me.”

Brunson continued on how she plans on returning with the series, “explaining our absence…in a way that we think engages the audience, protects the world we built.”

Revival: Howard Homecoming 2023

As you gather for events throughout the week, please remember to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings! If you see something, say something! Let’s be sure to make this Howard Homecoming memorable for all the right reasons. 

Remember, you can have fun and be BisonSafe! Be sure to stay tuned to WHUR-FM for more Homecoming updates

We want you to have fun, celebrate, and enjoy this week to the fullest! Here is some information to guide you through Howard University’s Revival Homecoming week!

To facilitate your parking arrangements and to stay updated on parking-related information during Homecoming,  please visit our dedicated Homecoming Parking webpage.

There is a full calendar of events, from the annual fashion show, yard fest, parade, and so much more. See the entire Homecoming events calendar.

Brewing Change: Starbucks Anacostia Store Making a Difference in the Southeast DC Community

A local Starbucks store creating change a cup of coffee at a time — the Anacostia Community Store isn’t just your average coffee shop.

With its outreach programs and initiatives, it is transforming the often crime-riddled narrative and perception of Southeast DC, showcasing the potential for positive growth and development. 

C.R.E.W.S. Protecting DC Communities

It’s called C.R.E.W.S. Communities Respecting Everyone’s Will to Survive. Some 75 violence interrupters in DC with a focus on turning around the shocking rise in deadly gun violence in the city. They’re tactics go back decades in the city. Can those tactics work for a new kind of criminal element?

Resources:

https://allianceofconcernedmen.org/

Brother Tyrone Parker, Former Executive Director,
Alliance of Concerned Men
Brother Aaron Muhammad, Student Mid-Atlantic Regional Captain, The Nation of Islam
Brother Edward Tate, Founder/Executive Director, Message In The Music

Rudolph Isley Passes Away At 84

The Isley Brothers founder Rudolph Isley has died. 

According to TMZ, the musician passed away on Oct. 11 in Illinois. His cause of death has yet to be determined, although a source told the outlet that he possibly suffered a heart attack. 

Rudolph and his brothers Ronald 82, and O’Kelly formed their R&B group in the late 1950s and enjoyed massive success with tunes such as “Twist & Shout,” “This Old Heart of Mine,” and “It’s Your Thing.”

In 1971, the group would expand, adding their younger brothers Marvin and Ernie, and Chris Jasper, Rudolph’s brother-in-law.

Rudolph departed from the band in 1989 to become a pastor, however, he has appeared alongside his old troupe over the years. 

Carlee Russell Guilty Of Faking Kidnapping

(Hoover, AL) — Carlee Russell is being found guilty of faking her own abduction. Back in July, Russell called Alabama police claiming she saw a toddler walking on the side of the highway before she disappeared for more than 48 hours. A few weeks after returning home, she admitted she made up a fake story about being kidnapped. On Wednesday, a judge found her guilty of false reporting to law enforcement and falsely reporting an incident and recommended a one-year jail sentence.

Carlee Russell, Mug Shot

Reporters’ Roundtable

We’re back at the Reporters’ Roundtable with some of the top stories of the week. On deck this week… The Israel-Hamas war. Shootings at HBCUs and the efforts to make them more secure.
The slow race for Speaker of the House. Metro fare evaders. The FTC proposal to make junk fees more transparent and students in Prince George’s County talk about violence and social media.

Part 1

Part 2

Eva McKend, CNN, National Politics Reporter
Hamil Harris, Reporter, Washington Informer

Jada Pinkett Smith And Will Smith Have Been Separated For 7 Years

“We’re still figuring it out.”

Jada Pinkett Smith has revealed that she and her husband Will Smith have been separated for the last seven years.  The actor has been married to the former Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star since 1997.

In a new interview with People magazine, Jada shared some insight into her relationship. “We’ve been doing some really heavy-duty work together,” she continued. “We just got deep love for each other and we are going to figure out what that looks like for us.”   

She then revealed that at the time of the 2022 Academy Awards, when Will slapped Chris Rock, they had been separated for six years. When discussing the infamous slap she recalls, “I thought, ‘This is a skit,’” Jada said. “I was like, ‘There’s no way that Will hit him.’ It wasn’t until Will started to walk back to his chair that I even realized it wasn’t a skit.”

Together, they share children Jaden and Willow, as well as Will’s son Trey, whom he had with his first wife, Sheree Zampino. 

Prince George’s County Family Justice Center “Dancing With The Stars” Fundraiser

You don’t have to look far to see evidence in our community of some form of domestic violence.
Even if you don’t see it in your home or your family… it is there. Sometimes silent, just beneath the surface or out in the open when you’re shopping, in a restaurant or even at a public event. In it’s effort to combat this difficult social issue, the Prince George’s County Family Justice Center will hold it’s “Dancing With The Stars” fundraiser. The event is sold out, but you can make a tax deductible contribution to support this very worthy cause. See the link below.

https://pgcfamilyjusticecenterfoundation.org/campaign/dancing-with-the-stars/team/2/

Dr. Denise McCain, Executive Director, The Prince George’s County Family Justice Center
Mandrell Birks, Chair, Prince George’s County Family Justice Center Foundation

DC Expanding Mental Health Services for Students

Washington, D.C. (Tuesday, October 10, 2023) – A big financial boost for a dozen local educational agencies to help expand mental health services for DC students. Mayor Muriel Bowser joined the Office of the State Superintendent of Education today in announcing $4.5 million in grant money that will go to 12 agencies to use to increase mental health support for students in 34 schools in the city.

“We know how important it is for our young people to have the mental health supports they need while in school and out of school,” said Mayor Bowser. “Every day, educators across DC are going above and beyond to ensure students feel safe and loved at school. These federal grants are one more tool our schools can use to support school staff in creating safe and healthy learning environments for students.” 

The grant funds come from the federal Bipartisan Safer Communities Act Stronger Connections Grant, which supports improving conditions for student learning by encouraging schools to implement a comprehensive plan to create safer and healthier learning environments and promote positive school climates. OSSE identified high-need agencies and made the grant funds available through competition. Those agencies applied for school-based projects that develop, enhance, or expand upon projects or activities in the school’s School Strengthening Work Plan.

The following 12 LEAs have been awarded grant funds:

Grantees  Awards
Cesar Chavez    $200,000  
Creative Minds    $76,500  
DC Bilingual    $198,500  
DC Preparatory     $1,297,183  
DCPS  $1,000,000  
E.L. Haynes   $300,000  
Eagle    $200,000  
Friendship   $725,502  
Hope Community Academy    $161,113  
LEARN DC    $200,000  
St. Coletta    $59,264  
Thurgood Marshall $180,000  

Bowie State Cancels Classes For Week Following Shooting

(Bowie, MD) — Classes are being canceled for the rest of the week at Bowie State University in Maryland following a weekend shooting that left two teens wounded. BSU officials announced today classes will not be held so as to provide time for “everyone to address their mental well-being.” Saturday night’s shooting happened at the end of homecoming week festivities at Maryland’s oldest historically Black university. It occurred less than a week after gunfire left five young people injured at a homecoming event at Morgan State University, another HBCU in Baltimore. Police have not made any arrests in either shooting.

Maryland State Police update on BSU shooting

{WATCH} LL Cool J Drops Details On New Album & Book

“Seeing how people respond to me doing new music after all this time. It’s kind of like the tour,like I hadn’t done a tour in 30 years.” LL Cool J

Check out Sunni And The City as she discusses with the Legend himself, LL COOL J about his love of hip-hop and how his book LL Cool J Presents The Streets Win – 30 Years Of Hip-Hop Greatness came to be.

“It’s it’s one of those books where you know, you’re gonna want that on your coffee table 15 to 20 years from now to be able to reference it because you have some of the most dynamic, I mean, even from like artists like Mary J. Blige,” he explains.

Sunni shares how her love of Hip-Hop helped her be able to speak English when she came to America. “I came to America when I was 13, right, and I didn’t speak any English, and I used to listen to Biggie and Tupac, and I would write down the lyrics and translate, and I remember like that was the moment when II was like, What is this music? This is amazing. And like I fell in love with the storytelling and everything,” she shares.

She asks,” I wanna know, is there a moment in your life when you really were like, oh, my God! This is what I get to do for a living?”

“Well, you know I’ve been a fan of hip hop since the very inception, you know, I heard, you know the very first tapes that floated around New York City.” LL continues, “when Flash and The Furious 4, a lot of those early tapes.”

He adds, “I was in love with it from day one because I never heard guys like me sound so empowered.”

See the entire interview below:

Clarissa Ward Takes Cover in Live CNN Report on Israel

Click HERE to watch as CNN’s Chief International Correspondent, Clarissa Ward, and her team took cover as rockets exploded overhead while reporting on the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

According to The Hill, Ward delivered her updates while crouched against an embankment, describing the “massive barrage of rockets.” “We’re just about five minutes away. Gaza is in that direction. We can hear now a lot of jets in the sky. We can also hear the Iron Dome intercepting a number of those rockets as they were whizzing overhead and making impact in that direction, not too far from here,” says Ward.

She explained that her team was in the location because it was “Ground Zero for this entire operation of carnage.” Ward described heavy weaponry being used and the breach of a border wall.

Once she was able to leave her hiding place, Ward apologized for any difficulty in reporting after being crouched in a ditch.

Bowie State Cancels Classes Monday Amid Shooting

Maryland State Police update on BSU shooting

Bowie, Maryland (Sunday, October 8, 2023) – Classes are canceled Monday at Bowie State University (BSU) after the second shooting on an HBCU campus in less than a week during homecoming festivities. Two people were shot Saturday around 11:30 p.m. outside the Center for Business and Graduate Studies on Henry Circle. Maryland State Police say the shooting victims were 19-year-old men and are not students of the school.

State police were on campus helping University police during the homecoming weekend. The Bowie shooting comes just days after a mass shooting on the campus of Morgan State University during the kick-off of its homecoming activities. The remainder of Morgan’s homecoming was subsequently canceled following the shooting Tuesday night of 4 students and one other person. Bowie State offered free homecoming game tickets to Morgan students in light of the shooting on that Baltimore campus.

“Our campus community is very much a peaceful community. And so this is not normal for Bowie State University,” said BSU President Aminta Breaux. The school was placed on lockdown for three hours following the shooting. “We’re going to take this one day at a time.”

At a news conference Sunday, police said they do not think the Morgan and Bowie shootings are connected. “We believe there are no further threats to the campus or public at this point. We also believe the shooting was an isolated incident,” said Maryland State Police Superintendent Col. Roland Butler, Jr. The victims were found in front of the Center for Business and Graduate Studies. Their identities have not been released.

Police are urging anyone with information or video of the shooting to call the state police tip line at 301-860-4688.

The school shooting came just hours after the Bowie homecoming game against Virginia State. The Bowie Bulldogs fell to the Virginia Trojans 44-16.

Both victims are expected of the BSU shooting are expected to survive their injuries. Police have not said what led up to the shooting or released any information about suspects. “Preliminarily we believe that there was more than one shooter,” added Butler.

Popular Candy Recalled After 7-Year-Old Dies

Two candy manufacturers have issued recalls for a popular type of candy that could prove to be fatal to a child.

The Cocco Candy Rolling Candy Ball and Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candy have both been recalled after a 7-year-old girl choked to death on the Cocco Candy version, according to the U.S.

Consumer Product Safety Commission. Both types of candy are packaged in a container with a ball on the end, much like roll-on deodorant, that kids use to “roll” the candy onto their tongues. However, the ball can become dislodged and lead to a fatal choking incident, the commission reports.

New Jersey’s KGR Distribution is recalling about 145,800 Cocco Candy Rolling Candies, while Indiana’s Candy Dynamics recalls about 70 million Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candies, the recall notice reveals.

According to the Product Safety Commission, parents are being advised to take the candy away from their children immediately and bring it back to the store for a full refund.

Reporters’ Roundtable

We’re at the Reporters’ Roundtable tonight with some of the top stories of the week. On deck… the shooting at Morgan State University. DC’s Emergency Crime bill and rising violent crime. Four teens in Prince George’s County killed after crashing a stolen car in Woodmore. The Kaiser Permanete strike. Political chaos on Capitol Hill, and an arrest made in the murder of rap icon Tupac Shakur.

Part 1

Part 2

Teria Rogers, Multi-Media Reporter, WYPR-FM
Sam Ford, DC Bureau Chief, WJLA-TV 7
Charles Robinson, Reporter, Maryland Public Television

Police Search For Suspects In Morgan State Shooting

(Baltimore, MD) — Baltimore police are searching for suspects in connection with last night’s shooting that left five people injured at Morgan State University. Police Commissioner Richard Worley said during a morning news conference they believe the shooting stemmed from a dispute between two smaller groups and the five people who were shot were not the intended targets. Worley said investigators believe there was more than one person with a weapon, but it’s unclear at this time how many guns were fired. Four of the victims were Morgan State students and all are expected to survive.

Thurgood Marshall Hall, Morgan State University