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Thousands In DC Region Remain Without Power As Storm Recovery Continues

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Severe weather in the D.C. region on Saturday caused power outages for hundreds of thousands of customers, downed trees, and damaged homes. As of 11:50 p.m. on Saturday, more than 33,400 Pepco customers were without power, with nearly half of impacted customers having their power restored by late Saturday evening.

Crews are working to restore power as quickly as possible, but officials warn that it may take some time. Other areas of the region were also affected, with Dominion Energy, BGE, and SMECO customers in Maryland and Virginia without power.

Currently, as of Monday, July 31st the outages are as follows:

1,100 Dominion Energy customers

192 BGE customers

227 PEPCO customers

Drivers should be aware of downed trees blocking roadways and downed power lines. Traffic impacts from the storm continue, with Northern portions of George Washington Memorial Parkway closed while crews remove trees, branches, and other debris.

Officials are warning against getting close to downed power lines, and encouraging residents to stay cool after near-record-breaking heat. Cooling centers are available in D.C., Virginia, and Maryland for those looking to beat the heat.

Trump’s PAC Spent $40M+ On Legal Fees This Year

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Arlington, VA) — Former President Trump’s political action committee has spent more than 40-million dollars on legal costs since the start of the year. Multiple reports indicate that number is more than double the amount Save America spent on legal fees in all of 2022. Most of the money used to defend the former president, his advisers and others comes from small-dollar donations from Trump’s supporters. An official financial filing is expected to be released Monday.

‘Pee Wee Herman’ Actor Paul Reubens Dies At 70 After Private Battle With Cancer

Paul created the Pee-wee Herman character in 1978 during an improv exercise with The Groundlings.

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Actor Paul Reubens, better known to the world as Pee Wee Herman, has died at the age of 70 after a battle with cancer. He had a brain tumor 6 years ago, but doctors were able to surgically remove it

It was announced on his official Facebook page that Reubens died Sunday, after he “bravely and privately fought cancer for years”. It also included this note from Reubens himself: “Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years  I have always felt a huge amount of love and respect from my friends, fans and supporters.  I have loved you all so much and enjoyed making art for you.”

Reubens created the Pee Wee Herman character in the late 70’s and became an icon in the mid-80s with the movie Pee Wee’s Big Adventure and the TV series Pee Wee’s Playhouse.

He also appeared in movies like Mystery Men, Batman Returns, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Blow, and Doctor Dolittle. As well as hit TV shows like Murphy Brown, Ally McBeal and Everybody Loves Raymond.

In a note he wrote, Paul apologized for not going public with his cancer battle.

Erykah Badu Says Beyonce Is Biting Her Style

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Beyoncé has come under fire from Erykah Badu for allegedly emulating her fashion choices, particularly her characteristic headgear.

The R&B superstar shared a photo of Beyoncé in East Rutherford, New Jersey, at her most recent Renaissance Tour stop on Sunday, July 30. Bey, JAY-Z‘s celebrity wife, wore a metallic, wide-brimmed hat in addition to matching bejeweled “IV” shirts and knee-high boots with her oldest daughter Blue Ivy.

Erykah seems perplexed as to how Beyoncé made her selection of hats given that she has made dazzling, wide-brimmed hats her go-to accessories for years. Badu said, “Hmmm. I guess I’m everyone’s stylist. favorite chrome mirror hat.”

One would say this is merely one artist paying homage to another. We know these two dominate the industry in their individual ways and we’re rooting for them both. Between Beyoncé and Erykah Badu as icons they have imprinted us as an audience because they display their strengths and talents unapologetically.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.’s Convention Is Moving Out Of Florida

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. , has decided to move their event out of Florida due to Governor Ron DeSantis’ “harmful, racist, and insensitive policies against the Black community.”

The decision to move to a different city came shortly after the state changed its academic standards for teaching Black history. The fraternity is refusing to direct nearly $5 million to a state that is hostile toward Black communities.

First Coast News reached out to Gov. DeSantis’ office for comment and his press secretary responded in short, “this is a stunt.” Alpha Phi Alpha is keeping the location of their 2025 convention location is unknown as of now.

“He continuously does things that pretty much insults us as an African American community and we have to show that we’re not here for it and it’s definitely a mockery,” said Leofric Thomas Jr., Alpha Phi Alpha member of The Delta Beta Chapter.

Alpha Phi Alpha will not conduct business in Florida unless DeSantis changes his policies.

THE JOURNEY: “Phylicia Rashad – Answering The Highest Calling of Howard Alumni”

President Frederick talks with Phylicia Rashad, award winning actress and the Dean of the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts.

Posted by Julie Cai
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ABOUT

After graduating from Howard University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts, today’s guest went on to become a legendary actress and stage director.  On today’s episode of “The Journey,” President Frederick talks with Phylicia Rashad, award winning actress and the Dean of the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts.  In 2021, Rashad returned to Howard University to help establish a strong foundation for the newly re-established College of Fine Arts.

Air Date: September 18, 2022

Men’s Relationship Roundtable

Posted by Harold Fisher
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Usually when we have our relationship conversations on Friday’s, we hear from the women.
Now it’s the men’s roundtable that’s taking on the topics. The the things we do or won’t do for love.

Resources:

http://insightmft.com/

https://kjbcoaching.com/

Dr. Jay Barnett, Author/Licensed Therapist
Tariiq Omari Walton, Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist

Excessive Heat Warning Extended Through Saturday

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(Sterling, VA) — An Excessive Heat Warning for the DMV is being extended until Saturday night. The National Weather Service says “feels-like” temperatures will reach up to 111 degrees both today and tomorrow. The warning covers parts of central, northern and southern Maryland, including Baltimore City and Washington, DC. Forecasters say the extreme heat and humidity will significantly increase the potential for heat-related illnesses, particularly for anyone working outside or participating in outdoor activities.

Carlee Russell Charged For Faking Kidnapping: Report

If convicted, she could face up to a year in jail or a year of labor in the county, as well as a $6,000 fine.

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Carlee Russell, who called 911 to report a missing toddler walking along a busy interstate highway in Hoover, Alabama, has been charged with falsely reporting an incident and making a false statement to police.

According to the police, Russell was never kidnapped, and her lawyer issued a statement admitting to the hoax. Russell’s parents said she had to “fight for her life” to escape her kidnapper.

Prior to her alleged abduction, Russell used her phone to search for information about Amber Alerts, one-way bus tickets, and Taken, the blockbuster film starring Liam Neeson about a pair of women that are kidnapped by human traffickers.

If convicted, she could face up to a year in jail or a year of labor in the county, as well as a $6,000 fine.

Russell’s boyfriend Thomar Latrell Simmons, has since deleted a post on his Instagram that went viral partly because he described her condition as being physically dire. He later said he was “disgusted” by Russell’s kidnapping hoax.

Emmy Awards Delayed Indefinitely Due To Strikes

The issues in the actors’ strike included desires for increased pay and progress on residuals, particularly on streaming services.

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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This year’s Emmy Awards ceremony has been delayed indefinitely due to the ongoing actor and writer’s strikes.

The show was scheduled to air Sept. 18th on Fox, but Variety reports that it’s been put on hold. A rescheduled date has not been announced, but Fox is reportedly looking at January 2024.

It’s the first time the Emmys have been delayed since 2001, when they were pushed back two months after the 9/11 attacks.

This month, about 160,000 actors represented by SAG-AFTRA went on strike against the same studios after the union said studio management offers were “insulting and disrespectful.” The Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA are the unions representing the striking writers and actors.

The Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA are striking for increased pay and progress on residuals, particularly on streaming services. The strikes have disrupted Hollywood productions and have had a devastating effect on the industry. The companies AMPTP represents have seen drops in their stock prices, prompting cost cuts, including layoffs.

In solidarity to support the Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA, the people keeping these companies up and running would have to cancel subscriptions. It’s been said that of 160,000 actors represented by SAG only 1% of them qualify for the insurance program.

The writers’ strike of more than 11,000 members came after their union and the Alliance of Motion Pictures and Television Producers could not agree on issues including staffing and duration of employment on shows.

The Hate Next Door: Undercover Within the New Face of White Supremacy

Posted by Harold Fisher
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We all know that racism in some form or another exists in America. We may have experienced it.
But many people of color are not privy to the private conversations that happen when they’re not around.
In this discussion, we’re getting a rare view of that. Matt and Tawni Browning are the co-authors of a new book. “The Hate Next Door: Undercover Within the New Face of White Supremacy”.

Resources: https://www.mattandtawni.com/

Matt and Tawni Browning, Co-Authors, “The Hate Next Door: Undercover Within the New Face of White Supremacy”


“Squeegee Kid” Guilty Of Manslaughter

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(Baltimore, MD) — A verdict is reached in the so-called squeegee murder trial in Baltimore. A city jury today found 16-year-old Tavon Scott guilty of voluntary manslaughter and two handgun counts in the death of a motorist last summer near the Inner Harbor. However, the jury acquitted the teen on first- and second-degree murder charges. Scott, who was 14 at the time, was charged as an adult with shooting and killing Timothy Reynolds after he swung a baseball bat at a group of squeegee workers. Attorney Warren Brown says they’ll appeal the verdict and they’re hoping the case will be transferred to juvenile court for sentencing.

Family Seeking For Help To Find The Person Responsible For Hitting A Young And Leaving Him In Critical Condition

Marcellus Burrell , a new father fighting for his life after a hit and run that’s left in critical condition.

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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The family of Marcellus Burrell is asking for help from the community to find the driver of a Silver Mercedes that hit him while he was riding his moped on Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE on July 19.

Marcellus is currently in critical condition. His father Wayne Burrell said, “He has so much damage to his body–he has broken bones all over his body–there’s no way  that driver even touched the brake.”

“My son is still in critical condition. He has a long fight to go. Hopefully not, but at one time they were saying that his left leg and his left hand may need to be amputated,” his father said. 

The family stays strong for Marcellus, they are also seeking that if anyone has any information about the driver or the car, they are asked to contact the police. “I’m asking anyone, please, if you know who it was that did it, or if you could provide any information to the police officers, please let them know,” Wayne Burrell said. 

Ari Lennox Celebrates Her Sobriety: “7 Months Sober. That’s A Lot Of Sober Flights”

“Don’t know if sobriety is forever or not, but I can’t imagine going back to how things were.”

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Ari Lennox recently talked openly about her previous alcohol abuse issues.

The R&B singer posted an honest message to her Instagram followers on Tuesday (July 25), celebrating seven months sober.

Ari said about her sober journey, “That’s a lot of sober flights. A lot of sober conversations. A lot of facing things raw and head on. Can’t imagine going back to how things were.” She added, “Passing out in the airport or having my emotions more heightened than needed.” She continued, “Sobriety is a very present experience.”

The Shea Butter Baby singer admits, “Don’t know if sobriety is forever or not, but I can’t imagine going back to how things were.”

“More stable. More happy. More alert. More safe. More accepting of things I can’t control and more responsible with things I can. I have less anxiety socially and when I’m ready to go, I go. I recognize my threshold with things and implement boundaries,” Lennox continued.

Her heartfelt message was a powerful and transparent. She finishes with, “But there’s the moment the liquor stops numbing and you’re chasing that feeling to no avail and you wake to see the problems of life still there ❤️ so anyway anybody out there also sober? What have you learned on your journey? Love you all so much.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CvIA5wtOhSJ/

Beyonce’s Mom Tina Knowles Files For Divorce From Actor Richard Lawson

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Beyoncé’s mother, Tina Knowles, has filed for divorce from Richard Lawson.

The 69-year-old went to a Los Angeles County court on Wednesday (July 16) to end their eight-year marriage, according to court documents obtained by Page Six.

Knowles separated on Tuesday, citing “irreconcilable differences”, as the reason for the split. The businesswoman isn’t seeking spousal support from the court for herself or her soon-to-be ex-husband. The couple married in 2015 after two years of dating and had no children together.

Rumors started after fans noticed Knowles didn’t join her husband on his press tour for “Black Terror.” They saw she changed her Instagram bio from Tina Lawson to Tina Knowles, even though her username still has her married name. The couple last posted photos of each other in March.

Tina was previously married to Mathew Knowles, father of Beyonce and Solange, for 31 years before they split in 2009. She credited her daughters for helping her heal from her first divorce.

Combating Summer Learning Loss

Posted by Harold Fisher
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Parents… we’re still pretty much in the middle of summer vacation. The new school year for your children is not too far away. Every summer, there’s always a concern about learning loss. It’s not too late to get you youngsters back in intellectual gear as the start of school draws near. We talk to a couple of experts with insight on what parents and students need to do right now.

Resources:

https://mathseals.com/

Dr. Tenickia Polk, Educator/Founder, Math Seals
Victoria A. Holmes, Coordinating Supervisor, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, Prince George’s County Public Schools

Mitch McConnell Stops Talking During News Conference

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Washington, DC) — Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell says he’s fine after being escorted away from a Republican leadership news conference Wednesday. The Kentucky senator appeared to freeze after he had stopped talking during the news conference. Some of his colleagues then asked McConnell if he was okay before Senator John Barrasso held him by the arm and walked him away from the podium. McConnell later walked back to the news conference by himself. An aide for the senator said he “felt light headed and stepped away for a moment.” Earlier this year, McConnell spent time in a rehabilitation facility after he tripped and fell at an event.

Sinead O’Connor Dies

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(Dublin) — Singer Sinead O’Connor is dead according to the Irish Times. O’Connor was 56 years old. O’Connor is known for hits including “I Want Your Hands On Me” and her version of Prince’s “Nothing Compares 2 U.” Her son, Shane, died at the age of 17 last year. O’Connor was criticized universally in 1992 when she ripped up a picture of Pope John Paul the Second on Saturday Night Live. She later said the move was meant to denounce the Catholic church and child abuse.

Michael Jeffery: Becoming Valedictorian While Living Under DC Bridge

Michael Jeffery faced adversities like the loss of two jobs and his home. Found himself living in a tent in Navy Yard while graduating top of his class and heading to college.

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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According to NBC Michael Jeffery lost two jobs during the pandemic, one at The Waffle House and the other at a retail store, while losing his home too. He ended up living in the Navy Yard area under a bridge.

He told NBC, “I didn’t want to be stuck out here.” “I don’t wish this on anybody, to be stuck out here,” Jeffery said.

“We don’t want pity,” he continued. “A lot of people in this situation is just like me. We want better; we want more.”

Jeffery took the opportunity to sign up for free adult high school classes with the Goodwill Excel Center last year.

Not allowing hardships to be misfortunes ,he continued to study and take classes while homeless. Taking this second chance with Goodwill, he’s just moved into an apartment and attending Catholic University in the fall.

“I’m studying legal studies,” he said. “Who would’ve thought that I would be studying legal studies, right? There was no hope in this tent, but I found it, so you see how far I’ve came and how far I will get.”

#WHURLOVE

Emmett Till and Today’s Black History Moments

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Today is a very important day in Black history. Acknowledgement from the highest office in the land of the Emmett Till tragedy. President Biden saying from The White House that the watershed moment should not be swept under the rug or whitewashed. We talk about the history and legacy of Emmett Till. We also talk about how Black history is and is not being taught to public school children in Florida. There’s also a big deal over disenfranchisement and Black political power in a very, very small Alabama town.

Dr. Greg Carr, Afro-American Studies Professor, Howard University

New Metro Faregates Not Perfect

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(Washington, DC) — New taller and stronger faregates are now in place at the Fort Totten Metro station. This is the first of ten stations that’ll have them installed by the fall as Metro tries to recover some of the 40-million-bucks it loses every year to folks who don’t pay to ride. Questions are already being raised about their effectiveness though after several videos posted on social media showed fare evaders having little problem conquering the new barriers. Metro GM Randy Clarke says fare evasion is not okay and ultimately puts the cost of the crime on the backs of people who do pay to ride.

Obama Family Chef Tafari Campbell Found Dead In Pond After Paddle-boarding In Martha’s Vineyard

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Tafari Campbell, the personal chef of former President Barack Obama, has been found dead in a pond near the family’s Martha’s Vineyard estate.

Campbell had gone paddleboarding on the pond on Sunday and something caused him to enter the water without a life vest.

After an extensive search, his body was recovered on Monday morning. The Obama family released a statement expressing their sadness and referring to Campbell as a “beloved part of our family.”

“In the years that followed, we got to know him as a warm, fun, extraordinarily kind person who made all of our lives a little brighter,” the Obama families statement continued.

As of now, this has been reported as a tragic accident. The Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit is investigating the incident in collaboration with Cape and Islands District and Edgartown Police.

Our prayers and condolences to the family and friends of Tafari Campbell. He leaves behind his wife, Sherise, and their twin sons, Xavier and Savin.

This story is developing and will be updated.

{UPDATE} Bronny James, Son Of LeBron James Suffers Cardiac Arrest During USC Practice

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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UPDATE July 28, 2023

Bronny James, the oldest son of Lebron James, has been released from hospital in Los Angeles after going into cardiac arrest.

The USC athletics’ medical staff responded quickly and effectively, and Bronny arrived at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center fully conscious and neurologically intact. Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading medical cause of death for college athletes in the US, and men’s basketball and football players account for 50% of sudden cardiac deaths in the NCAA.

The James family thanked the USC staff for saving Bronny’s life. Cardiac arrest is caused by irregular heartbeats that stop the blood from pumping through to the heart, and is different from a heart attack, which is caused by a blockage in the heart.

ORIGINAL POST July 25, 2023

According to CNN, Monday the son of NBA star LeBron James was hospitalized after suffering cardiac arrest during basketball practice at the University of Southern California.

A family spokesperson announced that Bronny James is out of intensive care and in stable condition as of now. 18-year-old Bronny is the eldest son of LeBron James.

“Yesterday while practicing Bronny James suffered a cardiac arrest. Medical staff was able to treat Bronny and take him to the hospital. He is now in stable condition and no longer in ICU,” the statement said.

“We ask for respect and privacy for the James family and we will update media when there is more information,” stated Shams Charania.

“LeBron and Savannah wish to publicly send their deepest thanks and appreciation to the USC medical and athletic staff for their incredible work and dedication to the safety of their athletes.”

The statement made via Shams Charania

Damar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills, who suffered from cardiac arrest last year on the field, shares a heartfelt message to the James family, “Prayers to Bronny & The James family as well. here for you guys just like you have been for me my entire process.”

This story will be updated.

Carlee Russell Admits to Lying About Being Kidnapped

Russell’s attorney Emery Anthony shared a statement with local police

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Carlee Russell, the 25-year-old Alabama woman who made headlines for returning home after claiming to be kidnapped after seeing a toddler walking along a freeway, was lying about her abduction.

Russell’s attorney Emery Anthony shared a statement with local police saying, in part, “My client did not see a baby on the side of the road. My client did not leave the Hoover area when she was identified as a missing person. My client did not have any help in this incident; this was a single act done by herself.”

Anthony added, “My client apologizes for her actions to this community, volunteers who were searching for her, to the Hoover Police Department and other agencies as well. As to her friends and family, we ask for your prayers for Carlee as she addresses her issues and attempts to move forward understanding that she made a mistake in this matter. Carlee, again, asks for your forgiveness and prayers.”

Honoring Emmett Till: President Joe Biden To Establish National Monument

Emmett Till would’ve been 82 years old.

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Biden Plans National Monument To Honor Emmett Till President Biden is set to announce a national monument honoring the memory of Emmett Till.

The Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley National Monument will be built across three sites in Illinois and Mississippi. NPR reports, one of those locations is Chicago’s Roberts Temple Church of God in Christ, which is where Till’s funeral was held in 1955.

In 1955, the 14-year-old Till was abducted and lynched for interacting with Carolyn Bryant Donham in the town of Money, Mississippi. Donham, later confessed that her testimony was a lie. His abductors were later acquitted of murder.

Till’s mother was a true hero in making sure her son’s death would remain alive in history. She requested that his casket remain open during the funeral. The incident became a flashpoint in the civil rights movement.

The announcement has not been confirmed by the White House but reportedly will take place on Tuesday, July 25, which marks what would’ve been Till’s 82nd birthday.

Black Maternal Mental Health Week

Posted by Harold Fisher
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The birth of a child is a joyous occasion. It’s a time to celebrate bringing a new life into the world.
But for a lot of black women, after the birth, a mental downward spiral can happen. This is Black Maternal Mental Health Week. For our Medical Monday conversation, we’re looking into post-partum depression and how it can be addressed.

Resources:

https://www.marchofdimes.org/

https://www.mammha.com/

Dr. Rochanda Mitchell, MD, OB/GYN – Maternal Fetal Medicine, Howard University Hospital
Tiffany Carter, Director,
Maternal and Infant Health Initiatives, March of Dimes

Montgomery County Exec Signing Rent Stabilization Bill Today

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(Montgomery County, MD) — In what some are calling a big win for affordable housing, Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich is signing the recently-passed rent stabilization bill into law today. The County Council passed it last week on a 7-to-4 vote. The measure limits annual rent increases to three percent plus inflation, with a cap of six percent. The bill will go into effect in about three months. DC and Prince George’s County added similar rent increase protections for residents this year as well.

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich

Twitter Is Now ‘X’

The proposed changes have drawn a wide range of reactions

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Elon Musk recently announced on Saturday night that Twitter will be rebranding, with the iconic bird logo being replaced.

Musk proposed the change to black in response to negative criticism of his changes to the site, and explained the logo change was to “embody the imperfections in us all that make us unique,” referencing the ancient Japanese philosophy of Wabi-sabi.

Musk appears to be fascinated with the letter X, which he has used to represent his idea of “the everything app.” He’s used it previously with his online bank X.com and his space exploration company SpaceX.

The proposed changes have drawn a wide range of reactions, with some users in support and others comparing it and concerned about a “New Coke” situation from the 1980s.

Twitter.com is still active, but the iconic bird logo has been replaced with an X throughout the site.

Trader Joe’s Recalls Cookies That May Contain Rocks

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Trader Joe’s is recalling two varieties of its store-brand cookies because they may contain small rocks.

The company made the announcement to recall Trader Joe’s Almond Windmill Cookies and Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Chunk Almond Cookies. The possible contaminated products were immediately prompted their removal to ensure the safety of consumers.

The products have been removed from store shelves, and anyone who purchased the cookies should throw them out or return them to the store for a refund.

It’s not clear how the rocks found their way into the cookies.

For any questions and/or assistance regarding the recall, please reach out to your local Trader Joe’s or call the customer service number (833)-771-0299

Ubiquitous Women’s Expo 2023

We celebrated the 9th Annual Ubiquitous Women’s Expo

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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At the Walter E Washington Convention Center, we celebrated the 9th Annual Ubiquitous Women’s Expo through beauty, wellness, and health. It was amazing as Sunni And The City shined bright as the host. With Coka-Lani, Anthony Brown, and Mansy broadcasted live from our WHUR lounge.

The Ubiquitous Women’s Expo is the preeminent event for Women of Color from the Mid-Atlantic to the Northeast.

The 2-day expo features quality exhibitors, star-studded entertainment, product demonstrations, dynamic workshops, and thought-provoking panel discussions

Just some of the talents like Christopher Williams, Maurette Brown Clark, and Raheem Devaughn in the building joined us as we gathered to celebrate, uplift, and encourage women

Jacquie’s Playlist February 2, 2025

Posted by Jacquie Gales Webb
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GOSPEL SPIRIT

WITH JACQUIE GALES WEBB

February 2, 2025

8A

 

 
  SAID HE WOULD BE WITH ME ISAIAH THOMAS
  I AM BLESSED VOLUNTEER MASS CHOIR
  IF WE EVER NEEDED THE LORD TAKE 6
  MY SOUL HAS BEEN ANCHORED IN THE LORD DOUGLAS MILLER
  I FOUND A NEW DOCTOR B L & S SINGERS
  ETERNALLY YOURS ST. JAMES CHOIR
  I’LL FLY AWAY 5 BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA

9 A

    
  LORD HELP ME TO HOLD OUT JAMES CLEVELAND 
  CHURCH DOORS YOLANDA ADAMS
  VICTORY CLARK SISTERS
  GOODNESS OF GOD CECE WINANS
  HE LOOKED BEYOND MY FAULTS KEITH ARMSTEAD
  GOD’S GRACE LUTHER BARNES
  SONG FOR MAMA BOYZ II MEN

10A

    

 

 AMEN PASTOR MIKE JR.
  RUNNING 4 JESUS ISAIAH THOMAS
  TRUST AND OBEY ERICA CAMPBELL
  BLESSINGS YOLANDA ADAMS
  WE NEED YOU Y’ANNA CRAWLEY
  IN MY SOUL JSIII
  PRAYING FOR YOU 7 SONS OF SOUL
  YOU KNOW MY NAME TASHA COBBS LEONARD
  NOT FORGOTTEN ISRAEL & NEW BREED
  THROUGH IT ALL ANDRAE CROUCH

11A

    

Continue reading “Jacquie’s Playlist February 2, 2025”

Who Pays The Check?

This has ignited a lot of debate about large dinner parties at restaurants, how to split the check, who pays, tipping and more.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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You may have seen it on social media.  A viral video of a large birthday dinner party at a restaurant, debating over who pays what for a $4600 dinner check.  This has ignited a lot of debate about large dinner parties at restaurants, how to split the check, who pays, tipping and more.

Crystal Bailey, Director, Etiquette Institute of Washington

Taria Griffin, Private Events Manager

 

Trump Classified Documents Trial Date Set

The DOJ wanted the trial to start this December, while Trump and his attorneys wanted Judge Cannon to set a date for after the 2024 presidential election.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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Neither the Department of Justice nor Donald Trump are getting the trial date they want in the former president’s classified documents case. Judge Aileen Cannon set a trial date for May 20th, 2024. The DOJ wanted the trial to start this December, while Trump and his attorneys wanted Judge Cannon to set a date for after the 2024 presidential election.

This image, contained in the indictment against former President Donald Trump, shows boxes of records on Dec. 7, 2021, in a storage room at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Fla., that had fallen over with contents spilling onto the floor. Trump is facing 37 felony charges related to the mishandling of classified documents according to an indictment unsealed Friday, June 9, 2023. (Justice Department via AP)

Dame Dash Says R. Kelly ‘Belongs’ In Prison For ‘Raping’ Aaliyah

Dame Dash has no doubts about the allegations against R. Kelly about grooming an underaged Aaliyah during her brief life. 

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Dame Dash has no doubts about the allegations against R. Kelly about grooming an underaged Aaliyah during her brief life.

The 52-year-old entrepreneur made an appearance on the That’s F***ed Up Podcast. Over the course of their conversation, he was asked about Kelly’s relationship with Aaliyah and whether or not he should be in prison.

“I think he’s where he belongs,” Dame said without hesitation. “I know Aaliyah, so I know what he did.”  Because he dated the late singer, he also added: “I can’t be objective about that, you know what I’m saying? But he definitely seemed like he needed some help.”

About getting involved in his ex’s ordeal with Kelly, Dame said Aaliyah asked him to “leave it alone.”

At this moment, the “I Believe I Can Fly” singer is serving 30 years in prison for his sex crimes with a minor and other major offenses.

What are your thoughts on R. Kelly?

Tierra Young Allen , Black Woman Facing Jail Time, Still Detained In Dubai For Screaming In Public

Tierra Young Allen, a 29-year-old social media influencer and truck driver from Houston, Texas, has been stuck in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (The U.A.E.) for over two months after being arrested for allegedly screaming in public.

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Tierra Young Allen, a 29-year-old social media influencer and truck driver from Houston, Texas, has been stuck in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (The U.A.E.) for over two months after being arrested for allegedly screaming in public.

Her mother, Tina Baxter, says her daughter could now face prison time due to the surveillance video of her screaming. Allen’s passport was taken, so she cannot leave the U.A.E. She has been placed under a travel ban pending the outcome of the investigation.

Before visiting the predominantly Muslim country, the Department of State warns Americans that they should be aware of the stricter public decency and morality laws.

Allen was a passenger in a friend’s rental car when they got into an accident in Dubai. When she went to the rental car company to retrieve her I.D., credit card, and other items left in the rental, she got into an argument with an aggressive individual which was captured on a surveillance camera.

Black Women Thriving East of the River

They’re working to provide health support, workforce development and many other resources.

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The communities east of the river here in Washington, DC are often called the forgotten gem.  A group of women is working to make sure that the women living there are not forgotten.  Black Women Thriving East of the River is working to provide health support, workforce development and many other resources.  For our Wellness Wednesday conversation we meet two of the women behind this effort.

Black Women Thriving East of the River/Focus Group Info

Nakeisha Neal Jones, Executive Director,                                 Black Women Thriving East of the River

Marsha Williamson, Cancer Survivor, Ward 7 Representative for Black Women Thriving East of the River

John Amos’ Son Arrested For Alleged Terroristic Threats Against His Sister

The newest incident in a family feud over the actor’s health involves John Amos’ son, the Good Times star, who is accused of sending his daughter threatening texts that included photos of guns.

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The newest incident in a family feud over the actor’s health involves John Amos’ son, the Good Times star, who is accused of sending his daughter threatening texts that included photos of guns.

The documents, acquired by TMZ, state that K.C., the son of John, was arrested last weekend after his sister, Shannon, said that he had sent her a number of unsettling texts that had caused her to worry for her life.

According to Shannon, her brother texted her about his alleged gang membership and included pictures of a revolver and a rifle. In addition, she claims, he sent her recordings of him shooting a weapon in a wide-open field while writing, “Gonna sleep much better tonight big sis.”

Shannon said that K.C. has bipolar disorder, which has caused him to assume that she paid someone to kill him. She is now concerned that he could retaliate, according to Robert Florida, a spokesman for the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office.

What’s the best way to work through family drama?

Carlee Russell Update

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(Hoover, AL) — New details are coming out about a woman who went missing after reporting seeing a toddler walking alone alongside a highway in Alabama and then reappearing two days later.

Police told reporters on Wednesday that Carlee Russell claims a man jumped out of a tree and abducted her when she went to check on the child.

They have been unable to verify her story after investigating and reviewing surveillance footage. Police also say the 25-year-old’s search history shows that she looked up times for a bus trip to Nashville, Tennessee, information on Amber Alerts, and the film “Taken” before the incident.

 

Despite the update of Russell, remember, according to Black & Missing Foundation, nearly 40% of missing persons are people of color, mainly African American.
Derrica Wilson, Co-Founder of the Black & Missing Foundation, suggests getting rid of the 24-hour waiting period and for newsrooms to create a system to help spread coverage amongst all races equally. The organization started a billboard campaign in 16 cities, including D.C., to celebrate 15 years of work in May.
Anyone can look up who is missing in their community by visiting bamfi.org.

Las Vegas Police Department Serve Search Warrant In Connection To Tupac Shakur’s Murder

This week, authorities of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department served a search warrant at a Henderson home in connection to the death of rapper Tupac Shakur nearly 30 years later. The specific location of the home has not been released.

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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This week, authorities of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department served a search warrant at a Henderson home in connection to the death of rapper Tupac Shakur nearly 30 years later.

They’ve confirmed that the home of 60-year-old Duane Davis is connected with the murder of Shakur.

Tupac was killed in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas on September 7, 1996, at the intersection of East Flamingo Road and Koval Lane. He was 25 years old at the time and died six days later.

Shakur’s death came six months before the shooting of 24-year-old rapper Notorious B.I.G in Los Angeles, California.

He was a six-time Grammy Award-nominated artist who had five No. 1 albums and 21 Billboard Hot 100s. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2017 and received a posthumous star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in June of this year.

His on-demand video and audio streams total 10.1 billion. A museum exhibit, “Tupac Shakur. Wake Me When I’m Free,” opened in 2021 to honor his life and legacy.

There is no statute of limitation of homicide in Nevada.

What is your theory about the Tupac shooting? Do you think the mystery will ever be solved?

The Carlee Russell Story

We don’t what happened to her. We take a look at what information we have and explore the possibilities.

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What happened to Carlee Russell? The 25-year-old black woman returned to her Hoover, Alabama home last Saturday, after a mysterious disappearance two days before.  Since then, police aren’t saying much about the investigation.  Neither are her parents who spoke to NBC News.  We don’t what happened to her. We take a look at what information we have and explore the possibilities.

Mary C. Curtis, Columnist, Roll Call

Kathy Givens, Co-Founder, 12-11 Partners

Keke Palmer Sits With Sunni And The City

Keke Palmer gets to the DMV and chats with Sunni And The City, they talk about Palmer’s path as a childhood star, the glow of motherhood, the new album Big Boss, and her multifaceted career as it continues to grow. 

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Keke Palmer gets to the DMV and chats with Sunni And The City, they talk about Palmer’s path as a childhood star, the glow of motherhood, the new album Big Boss, and her multifaceted career as it continues to grow.

They discuss her network Key TV giving creatives access, her performing at Broccoli Fest 2023, a celebrity that she’s still starstruck by, and the best advice given.

While new to motherhood, Palmer tells us about the headache to waste good breastmilk if you’re trying to go out and have a drink, then having to pump and dump.

READ MORE: Keke Palmer Shamed By The Father Of Her Child Darius Jackson: ‘I Have Standards, Morals!’

 

 

 

DC Ranked As Most Expensive To Raise Toddler

Daycare now tops 24-thousand dollars a year, making DC the most expensive place.

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(Washington, DC) — It’s costing more than ever for parents to raise a toddler in the nation’s capital. Daycare now tops 24-thousand dollars a year, making DC the most expensive place. A recent study shows that comes out to 73-percent of a single mother’s income, with most having to pay just to put their child on a waitlist. Home-based care is slightly cheaper at 19-thousand.

 

$500K PowerBall Ticket Sold In MD

The Powerball prize now tops the one-billion-dollar mark after there were no jackpot winners from Monday’s drawing.

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(Catonsville, MD) — It’s not the big jackpot, but someone who bought a Powerball ticket in Maryland can claim a second-tier prize. A 500-thousand-dollar ticket from Monday night’s drawing was sold at Westway Liquors on Edmondson Avenue in Catonsville. The Powerball prize now tops the one-billion-dollar mark after there were no jackpot winners from Monday’s drawing. Meanwhile, the jackpot for tonight’s Mega Millions drawing is at least 640-million dollars.

DC Council Chair Phil Mendelson Discuss New Chief, Public Safety

We’re also talking about the new emergency crime bills.

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A little more than a month after DC Police Chief Robert Contee’s official retirement, DC has a new chief. Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the nomination of Pamela A. Smith today.  That’s just one of several issues we’re talking about with DC Council Chair Phil Mendelson.  We’re also talking about the new emergency crime bills.

 

Jamie Foxx Shuts Down Clone Rumors With Clever Promo Tie-In

Jamie Foxx has heard the rumors about his alleged “cloning,” and a recent comment made by the Oscar-winning actor suggests that reports of his duplication are highly exaggerated. 

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Jamie Foxx has heard the rumors about his alleged “cloning,” and a recent comment made by the Oscar-winning actor suggests that reports of his duplication are highly exaggerated.

Conspiracy theories have arisen about Foxx’s alleged “cloning” coinciding with his new film They Cloned Tyrone. In an Instagram comment supposedly left on a Shade Room post on Thursday (July 13), the multi-hyphenate dismissed reports of his less-than-stellar status while also plugging his new Netflix film.

Despite these theories, human cloning has never been done, and cloning can introduce profound genetic errors.“They didn’t clone me but THEY CLONED TYRONE,” he wrote, referring to the upcoming dark satirical comedy that also stars John Boyega and Kiefer Sutherland. “See you July 21, only on @netflix.”  Rumors about Jamie Foxx’s health have been circulating since he was first hospitalized for what his family called “a medical complication” back in April while filming the Netflix film ‘Back in Action.’

Free Lunch Friday: 96 Meals In 96 Minutes

Free Lunch Friday, catch us every other Friday at different locations as we give away 96 meals in 96 minutes (while supplies last).

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Free Lunch Friday, catch us every other Friday at different locations as we give away 96 meals in 96 minutes (while supplies last).

Next location:

September 22nd: STC Soul Joint 15638 Livingston Rd., Accokeek. Md., 20607

We begin at noon but fair warning, get there before because we hit 96 fast! Again we give away 96 meals in 96 minutes (while supplies last).

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Jury Selection For Squeegee Murder Case

The teen is being tried as an adult on charges that include first-degree murder.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Baltimore, MD) — Jury selection is underway in the trial of a teenage squeegee worker who’s accused of shooting and killing a man near Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Prosecutors say the then-14-year-old shot and killed Timothy Reynolds after he confronted him and other squeegee workers with a baseball bat near Light and Conway streets last July. The teen is being tried as an adult on charges that include first-degree murder. Supporters of the teen spoke outside the courthouse today and said the case belongs in juvenile court.

Car Crashed Into A Generator At The Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center ICU

On Sunday evening, a car crashed into a generator at the Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center in Prince George’s County, Maryland.

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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On Sunday evening, a car crashed into a generator at the Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center in Prince George’s County, Maryland.

The crash damaged a small building that houses the medical center’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU), forcing the relocation of eight patients. Some of the patients were taken to other parts of the hospital, while others were taken to different hospitals.

Eight ICU patients were relocated to other parts of the hospital and other hospitals. The ICU is closed until repairs can be made to the building and the generator. The Prince George’s County Fire Department responded to the crash and extinguished a small fire that started. The car did not crash through the building but did damage the structure.

President Biden Praises Jesse Jackson

President Biden is honoring the retiring Reverend Jesse Jackson. In a statement Sunday, Biden thanked Jackson for “his lifetime of dedicated service” and called him “a man of God and of the people.”

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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President Joe Biden is honoring the retiring Reverend Jesse Jackson.

In a statement Sunday, Biden thanked Jackson for “his lifetime of dedicated service” and called him “a man of God and of the people.”

Jackson announced Saturday that he is resigning from his post as president of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, which he founded more than 50 years ago. Biden went on to say, “Throughout our decades of friendship and partnership, I’ve seen how Reverend Jackson has helped lead our nation forward through tumult and triumph. Whether on the campaign trail, on the march for equality, or in the room advocating for what is right and just, I’ve seen him as history will remember him: a man of God and of the people; determined, strategic, and unafraid of the work to redeem the soul of our nation.”

How will you be described by your coworkers when you retire?

Friends Mourn The Unexpected Death Of Beloved Event Planner Jocko Fajardo

Joaquin “Jocko” Fajardo, DC resident skilled chef, event planner, florist, and founder of JockoMade.com , unexpectedly passed away Friday, July 14th in his DuPont Circle home.

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Joaquin “Jocko” Fajardo, DC resident , event planner, florist, founder of JockoMade.com,  and skilled chef unexpectedly passed away Friday, July 14th in his DuPont Circle home.

Jocko was a DMV resident for over 20 years. His creativity lead him to be featured in some of Washington’s most distinguished residential addresses. He was considered to be “Tailored Chic” in his design skills.

From his website, JockoMade “Our wish is to bring you high-quality experiences and products to enhance your everyday life at home, at work, and in your community.”

Friends and colleagues remember to take to Facebook and the Washington Blade. David Perruzza, the owner of The Adams Morgan LQBTQ bars Pitchers and League Of Her Own shared via Facebook, “Jocko Fajardo was the guy you called if the queen was coming over for dinner and you wanted it to be perfection.”

“His creativity, charm, and friendship will be missed by so many. He left us much too soon,”  DC Activist Peter Rosenstein said. “Jocko was a D.C. treasure.”

The editor Kevin Naff of Washington Blade mentioned, “Jocko touched so many in the LGBTQ community in D.C. through his extensive volunteer work,” He continued, “When we were looking for help planning the Blade’s 50th celebration, Jocko stepped up and was involved throughout the entire process. All of us at the Blade are forever grateful for his many contributions and he will be missed by so many in the community here.”

No cause of death has been revealed.