Blog
Washington, D.C. – (Sunday, November 23, 2025) – In a powerful outpouring of compassion and urgency, WHUR 96.3 FM today galvanized the DMV community to answer Jamaica’s call for help. The radio station hosted “Aid for Jamaica,” a 12-hour radiothon uniting listeners, leaders, and survivors to raise money for the island nation devastated by Hurricane Melissa.
The station raised nearly $50,000 to support communities devastated by last month’s catastrophic Category 5 hurricane. The storm, the deadliest and most destructive in Jamaica’s modern history, claimed 45 lives and caused more than $10 billion in damage, flattening homes, crippling infrastructures, and leaving families shattered.
From 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., WHUR turned its airwaves into a lifeline, urging listeners to stand with Jamaica in its darkest hour. The radiothon was part of a larger on-going campaign by Howard University In partnership with the Embassy of Jamaica. “Our people are hurting. Entire communities have been swept away. But we are a resilient nation, and knowing the Howard University community and WHUR listeners stand with us gives us strength,” said His Excellency Anthony Anderson, Ambassador of Jamaica.
The Embassy will handle the donations to ensure the resources go to the hardest-hit communities. While the radiothon has ended, the overall Howard University Aid for Jamaica campaign continues and persons can still make donations through December 1st at whur.com.
Howard University has deep, generational ties to Jamaica. “Many of our students, alumni, and faculty trace their roots to the island. When tragedy strikes our extended family, we respond. Truth In Service is our motto and we stand on that through words and deeds. I’m proud that the Howard University community is partnering with the Jamaican Embassy to ensure help reaches those who need it most,” said Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, Interim President of Howard University.
Throughout the day, WHUR listeners heard emotional testimonies from Jamaican residents who survived the hurricane. They described roofs torn away in seconds, communities submerged in mud and water, and families searching for missing loved ones. “Today reminds us why WHUR exists. When a community, near or far, cries out, our listeners respond with heart and humanity. It was an honor to lend our support to this effort. But the true credit belongs to the hundreds who stepped up to give. This is the power of radio, and this is the power of giving,” added WHUR General Manager Sean Plater.
Washington Post reports that the U.S. Coast Guard is changing its policy regarding swastikas, hanging nooses and the Confederate flag. President Trump signs the Epstein bill and the other top political stories of the week will be discussed by political analysts.
Guests:
Reecie Colbert, Host, The Reecie Colbert Show on SiriusXM
Dr. Marcus Board, Jr., Political Science Professor, Howard University
My guest this morning puts the rhythm and the its back in the hands of students across the DMV. His free afterschool program is called MusicianShip and they are gearing up for a big awards ceremony and they want your help with the nominations. My guest is Dana Nearing – Director of Operations for the MusicianShip
The MusicianShip, the region’s leading provider of free, after-school, music education programs for youth and producer of the DMV’s largest live-music awards show, announced that the 37th Annual Wammie Music Awards will take place on Saturday, March 28, 2026. Wammies Season officially begins November 15th with a revamped award self-nomination process. The public voting process begins on Monday, December 15th . For more information go here: www.themusicianship.org
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Prince George’s County Interim School Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph is marking 100 days on the job. He’s been crisscrossing the county for months talking with parents, students, educators, and other stakeholders while also
instituting and expanding new initiatives. He joins us to talk about the progress, the partnerships, and the pressure to make Prince George’s County Public Schools among the best in the country.
Guest:
Prince George’s County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph
Get ready for a fun and entertaining evening with the ladies of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. The Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter is gearing up for the return of their Poetry and Art Noir. My guest is Celeste Chapman – Arts and Letters Co-Chair of Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and Co-Chair Anshia Crooms
The Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is excited to announce the return of “Poetry & Art Noir”! Join us for an “All Black”, cocktail style experience of artistic expression—showcasing the best of local poetry, visual and spoken word artistry Saturday, November 22nd at 7pm at the Historic Torpedo Factory in Alexandria Virginia. For more information go here: www.dstnovac.org
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My guest this morning runs an organization that has been helping the under-served for 60 years. United Communities Against Poverty or YOU-CAP is gearing up for a big event this weekend and they want everyone to come out to help those in need. My guest this morning is Rasheeda Jamison – CEO of United Communities Against Poverty
United Communities Against Poverty, Inc. is hosting Walk In their Shoes will be November 22nd at 10am at Bladensburg Waterfront. For more information go here: www.ucappgc.org
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SHUTDOWN BURN-OUT!!! Now that federal workers are back on the job and the paychecks are flowing again… it may not be as happy go lucky as
you may think. Some workers are facing a backlog of assignments and pressure from anxious supervisors to get it all done. Plus, there is a tense calm in many hallways that another shutdown could be looming in just a matter of weeks. We’ll hear from the president of Blacks in Government and a leading workplace psychologist about how employees can manage those feelings of being overwhelmed —and how agencies can support a workforce still reeling from the uncertainty.
Guests:
David Groves, President, Blacks In Government (BIG)
Dr. Vanessa Weaver, Organizational Psychologist, Host, “Workin It Out” on WHUT-TV
A coalition of groups is turning up the heat with a bold call to action this holiday season. The message? “We ain’t buying it!” It’s a national economic boycott aimed squarely at companies rolling back DEI and backing policies that many say hurt Black and Brown communities. Organizers are urging people to shut their wallets and show the power of collective dollars. We dig into what this economic campaign means—and why it’s striking a nerve with so many. While organizers are steering clear from some big-box stores, they are urging consumers to place their dollars in the hands of small black businesses.
Resources:
Guests:
Dr. Julianne Malveaux – Economist, Author and Columnist
LaTosha Brown – Co-Founder of Black Voters Matter
Juanita “Busy-Bee” Britton – Founder and CEO of Busy Bee International
Eddie Murphy is pulling back the curtain in his new Netflix documentary Being Eddie, and he doesn’t hold back. One of the most surprising moments comes from his 21st birthday at the legendary Studio 54, where he says actor Yul Brynner approached him with a proposition that left him confused and a little stunned. Murphy even wondered if Brynner wanted him to hook up with his wife. Brynner, best known for The King and I, died in 1985 after a battle with lung cancer.
The documentary also shows a more personal side of Murphy as he talks about why he stays far away from award shows. He says being around a room full of famous people gives him a “sh—y feeling,” and he’d much rather be at home recharging in peace. Even with a career packed with classic films, cultural impact, and box-office wins, Murphy has never taken home an Oscar. He hints that his comments about race and Hollywood at the 67th Academy Awards might’ve played a part.
Murphy reflects on how he built his career from stand-up stages to Saturday Night Live, aiming to channel the humor of Richard Pryor, the cool of Elvis Presley, and the star power of The Beatles. Behind the scenes, he used his influence to open doors for Black actors coming up after him.
Being Eddie doesn’t just revisit iconic moments; it shows a legend who carved his own lane, paid it forward, and is still pushing himself into new chapters.
This morning we are highlighting a special evening for dads and daughters. Ivy Vine Charities, Inc. wants you to mark your calendar for their upcoming Father Daughter Dinner Dance and Jazzy Sneaker Ball. My guest is Alean Miller – Co Chair of the Father Daughter Dinner
Ivy Vine Charities, Inc. 2025 Father-Daughter Dinner Dance and Jazzy Sneaker Ball is Friday, December 5th from 7:30pm to 10pm at the Laurel-Beltsville Senior Activity Center. Register at www.2025FDDD.eventbrite.com
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We’re at the Reporters’ Roundtable, analyzing some of the the top stories of the week. The shutdown is over, now what? The Epstein controversy grows. A student is berated by a teacher for speaking Spanish in class. We’ll look a the Muriel Bowser travel investigation story. And what about the Washington Commanders performance and naming the new stadium after President Trump?
Guests:
Keith Alexander, Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter and Editor-at-Large, Bloomberg Law
Jennifer Thomas, Journalism Professor, Howard University
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Thursday, November 13, 2025) – In a powerful show of unity and generosity, WHUR 96.3FM’s 47th Annual Food2Feed Radiothon once again brought the DMV together, raising more than $61,000 and a truckload of non-perishable food to help feed families experiencing hardship this holiday season.
This year’s success carries special meaning. With many residents grappling with the lingering effects of the longest federal government shutdown in U.S. and the pause in SNAP benefits, the need for food assistance has surged. An estimated 1.5 million people across the region face food insecurity, and with every dollar providing two meals, the radiothon’s impact will be felt in households across the DMV.
All funds raised will be shared equally between the Capital Area Food Bank and Shabach Ministries, two trusted partners committed to ensuring families have consistent access to nutritious food during the holidays and beyond.
The radiothon’s success was made possible by the incredible generosity of our listeners and the unwavering support of our community partners. WHUR extends special thanks to our corporate sponsors—Truist Bank and Macy’s Downtown Metro Center—whose commitment to serving the community helped drive this year’s achievement. WHUR also acknowledges the invaluable volunteer service of the Howard University students, who showed up with energy, dedication, and compassion throughout the event.
“Our listeners and sponsors continue to show up with heart,” said Sean Plater, WHUR General Manager. “At a time when so many in our community are facing real uncertainty, the generosity displayed during Food2Feed 2025 reminds us of the power we have to lift each other up. We are grateful for every supporter, every sponsor, and every student volunteer who stood with us to make a meaningful difference.”
WHUR thanks everyone who gave, shared, volunteered, and supported this year’s radiothon. Your compassion is helping deliver hope, stability, and dignity to families throughout the region during one of the most challenging times of the year.
About WHUR
Owned and operated by Howard University, WHUR 96.3FM has a long-standing legacy of community service, uplifting programming, and impactful outreach, highlighted by signature events like the annual Food2Feed Radiothon
Register here for Saturday’s Future Ready Career Youth Fair at Crossland High School
https://iveyctecareerfair.eventbrite.com
The record-breaking government shutdown is over. President Trump signed a funding bill last night that was passed by Congress. Federal employees will now get back on the job, as they and those who continued to work through the shutdown wait to learn when they’ll receive their back pay. Federal food assistance will resume for the millions of people still waiting for their full november payments. Yesterday… a federal judge ruled that the trump administration cannot force states to undo their delivery of snap benefits.
Guest:
U.S. Representative Glenn Ivey (D) Maryland, 4th District
We have an important Wellness Wednesday conversation. We are focusing on your health and why having a primary care physician is essential. In the DMV, too many residents only see a doctor when they are already sick or facing an emergency. But medical experts say a primary care doctor should be your first line of defense. That means helping you catch problems early, manage chronic conditions, and stay healthier longer. Our medical professionals will break down why primary care isn’t just an option, it’s a necessity.
Guests:
Dr. L. Latéy Bradford, Family Medicine Specialist, University Of Maryland Medical System Capital Region Health
Dr. Ricardo Fernandez, Internal Medicine Specialist, University Of Maryland Medical System Capital Region Health
We’ve all seen the impact of the government shutdown and the pause in SNAP benefits. Now is the time for those who can help do something meaningful to assist our neighbors in need. WHUR is gearing up for our 47th Annual Food2Feed Radiothon, and the call to action is more urgent this year than ever before. My guest is Sean Plater – General Manager for WHUR
The 47th Annual Food2Feed Radiothon is Thursday, November 13th from 6am to 6pm at the studios of 96.3 WHUR @ 529 Bryant Street, NW. All proceeds go to support the Capital Area Food Bank and Shabach Ministries – two non-profits who work directly to address food insecurity in the DMV. Persons can donate now at www.whur.com or drop off non-perishable at our studios on November 13th.
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Former President Barack Obama gave a heartfelt surprise to dozens of Korean and Vietnam War veterans as he boarded an Honor Flight that had just arrived in Washington, D.C. According to CBS News, Obama greeted the group of 79 veterans and their families, thanking them for their service and sacrifices.
The Honor Flight Network is a nonprofit organization, that provides free trips for veterans to visit war memorials and monuments in the nation’s capital. Originally established to honor World War II veterans, the program has since expanded to include those who served in the Korean War and the Vietnam War.
Obama personally shook hands with each veteran and presented them with a Presidential Challenge Coin, a gesture that deeply moved many in attendance. One Army veteran, Joe Parr, was brought to tears by the moment, describing it as an unforgettable act of respect and gratitude.
As Veterans Day approaches, Obama’s visit served as a powerful reminder of the nation’s enduring appreciation for those who’ve worn the uniform. “We owe you more than we can ever repay,” he told the group, honoring their courage and lifelong commitment to service.
Kim Kardashian is staying the course on her journey to becoming a lawyer.
After revealing on Instagram Stories that she didn’t pass the California bar exam in July, Kim thanked everyone who’s supported her throughout the process.
The California bar is notoriously tough, with only about 63% passing. Instead of attending traditional law school, Kim has been studying through California’s Law Office Study Program—an alternative path that lets students learn under practicing attorneys.
She’s already passed the “baby bar” on her fourth try back in 2021 and completed the six-year program this May. She also took the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam earlier this year.
Despite this latest setback, Kim says she’s more motivated than ever to continue her legal journey, hoping to use her platform to advocate for criminal justice reform and help those seeking clemency.
Get your dancing shoes out. The Prince George’s County Family Justice Center Foundation is gearing up for its 3rd Annual Dancing with the Stars Fundraising Gala. My guest is Christine Nealy – Vice President of the Prince George’s County Family Justice Center Foundation
The 3rd Annual Dancing With the Stars Fundraising Gala hosted by the Prince George’s County Family Justice Center Foundation is Saturday, November 15th from 7pm to midnight at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt. Proceeds from the event support Camp Hope, an initiative to provide free summer camp for youth who have experienced/witnessed domestic violence. For more information go here: www.pgcfamilyjusticecenter.org
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Tomorrow in Veterans Day. The day America honors those who have served in the armed forces. It began as Armistice Day on November 11, 1919, to commemorate the end of World War I. It became an official national holiday in 1938. Congress changed the name to Veterans Day in 1954.
We sit down with some Black veterans to get their take on service, patriotism, the impact of military life and transitioning to civilian life.
Guests:
Kema Scott, Chief Petty Officer, USN, (Retired)
Lenora Ivy, Lt. Colonel, U.S. Army, (Retired)
Jerome Williams, Colonel, U.S. Air Force, (Retired)
The 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ceremony was a celebration of legacy, innovation, and undeniable impact.
Salt-N-Pepa lit up the stage with hits like “Shoop” and “Let’s Talk About Sex,” rocking matching leather jackets.
DJ Spinderella made history as the first female DJ ever inducted, telling the crowd, “I carry every female DJ who ever dared to dream. Every woman who touched a turntable and said, ‘I can do that, too.’ This is ours,” she said. “Respect the DJ!”
OutKast’s induction, led by Donald Glover, was a highlight of the night. “You don’t have to scream, you don’t have to yell,” Glover said. “You just have to be undeniable. There is no Childish Gambino without you. There is no South without you.”
André 3000 reflected on their journey from Atlanta’s small rooms to the world stage: “It’s a lot more than just the notes or the instruments that you playing. It’s everybody that’s around you — it’s family.” Big Boi followed with gratitude, saying, “Thank you, Dre, for always pushing me to be my best.”
A star-studded tribute featuring Tyler, the Creator, Janelle Monáe, Doja Cat, JID, and Killer Mike brought the crowd to its feet with “Ms. Jackson,” “Hey Ya,” and “B.O.B.”
Cyndi Lauper, Soundgarden, and The White Stripes were also among this year’s inductees, rounding out a lineup that celebrated both innovation and legacy.
Help this morning for returning citizens in DC. Am Expungement Clinic is happening this weekend in NE where you will be able to get free legal support and other resources. My guest is Oye Owolewa – DC Shadow Representative
The FreeExpungement Clinic will be held Saturday, November 15th from 10 am to 1 pm at 3939 Benning Rd NE. Returning citizens will be provided free legal support and resources. The event is free and in partnership with DC Representative Oye Owolewa, Christian Legal Aids, Marshall Heights Community Development Organization, Ward 7 and 8 Drug Prevention Center and a host of others.
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At the Washington Commanders game, the energy shifted fast when former President Donald Trump stepped onto the field to lead a swearing-in ceremony for new U.S. service members. I
nstead of cheers, a wave of boos rolled through the stadium as fans made their reactions known from the moment he appeared.
Trump continued with the Armed Forces Oath of Enlistment while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stood beside him, punctuating the final line, “So help me God.” The chilly reception wasn’t a surprise.
After the ceremony, Trump tried to lighten the moment by celebrating a pre-game military flyover, calling it the,”greatest flyover ever.” Still, the response from the stands told the real story of the night.
We are in week 10 of the NFL season and things are not looking good for the Washington Commanders. Quarterback Jayden Daniels is sidelined once again after a cringe-worth left elbow injury last week. It’s the third injury this season that has put his second season under a cloud. We have that and much more to talk about at The Sports Roundtable.
Howard university has received an 80 million dollar contribution from billionaire philanthropist Mackinzie Scott. It is the latest contribution she has made to several HBCU’s across the country. Howard University Interim President, Dr. Wayne Frederick discusses how the money will be spent.
The Dallas Cowboys are mourning the loss of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who passed away at the age of 24. In just his second NFL season, Kneeland had emerged as one of the most promising young defenders on the Cowboys roster, earning respect for his relentless work ethic and quiet leadership.
Kneeland, a native of Grand Rapids, Michigan, was drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan University. The Cowboys described him as a beloved teammate whose talent and dedication had already made an impact on the organization and fans alike.
According to authorities, Kneeland died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after a police pursuit ended. His vehicle was found abandoned in Frisco, and he was later discovered deceased in a portable toilet, with police reporting that he was armed at the time.
Kneeland’s agent, Jonathan Perzley, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, saying, “I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night. I watched him fight his way from a hopeful kid at Western Michigan with a dream to being a respected professional for the Dallas Cowboys. Marshawn poured his heart into every snap, every practice, and every moment on the field. To lose someone with his talent, spirit, and goodness is a pain I can hardly put into words.”
The NFL and the wider football community are remembering Kneeland as a rising star who inspired teammates and fans alike. Prayers and condolences continue to pour in for his family, friends, and teammates during this heartbreaking time.
Social media is buzzing with the hashtag #MichaelMovie as anticipation builds for the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic. A verified page named “Micheal” officially announced the film, titled MICHAEL, set to hit theaters and IMAX on April 24, 2026.
Lionsgate recently released the first trailer, giving fans a glimpse into the life and legacy of the King of Pop. The film promises to explore the iconic singer’s rise to fame, groundbreaking artistry, and lasting influence on music and culture.
Fans are especially excited to see Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, take on the challenging role of portraying his legendary uncle. The movie is directed by Antoine Fuqua, known for his dynamic storytelling and cinematic style, which adds to the anticipation surrounding the project.
From electrifying performances to behind-the-scenes moments, the trailer hints at a deeply personal and visually stunning portrayal of one of music’s most celebrated figures. Social media users are already sharing their excitement, speculating about scenes, and celebrating Michael Jackson’s enduring impact on generations of fans worldwide.
With its April 2026 release, MICHAEL is shaping up to be a must-see film for longtime admirers and new fans alike.
Heads up for parents with high school students. Alfred Street Baptist Church is gearing up for its 23rd Annual HBCU Festival. It’s a chance to connect your youngster to dozens of schools, scholarships, application assistance and more. My guest is Deacon Tanya Walker – Alfred Street Baptist Church
Alfred Street Baptist Church is hosting its 23rd Annual HBCU Festival November 14th and 15th at the St. James – 6805 Industrial Road in Springfield, Va. For more information go here: www.hbcufest.alfredstreet.org
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We go beyond the headlines to hear directly from those affected, federal workers, air traffic controllers, and families struggling to make ends meet. We’ll also discuss the broader impact with our expert panel, exploring the toll this shutdown is taking on wallets, mental health, and public trust in leadership.
Our Guests:
- Kamaal Barron – Air Traffic Control Specialist & Southern Regional President, National Black Coalition of Federal Aviation Employees
- David Groves – President, Blacks In Government
- Dr. Fredricka Brooks-Davis – Clinical Psychologist, Founder & Executive Director, The Restoration Center, Inc.
- Michael Fauntroy – Associate Professor of Policy & Government, Founding Director, Race, Politics, and Policy Center, George Mason University
Watch as we discuss the human stories behind the headlines, the mental health implications, and what this shutdown means for the nation.
We are combining legacy and the Arts on Taking It to the Streets. The Frederick Douglass Memorial and Historical Association is hosting its Violins for Douglass Youth Program this month on the campus of Howard University. My guest is Dr. Donna Marable – Parliamentarian with The Frederick Douglass Memorial and Historical Association
The Frederick Douglass Memorial and Historical Association (FDMHA) is combining legacy and the arts at our Violins for Douglass Youth Program on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Howard University Blackburn Center from 3:30pm to 6:30pm. For more information go here: www.frederickdouglassmha.org
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Guests:
Dr. Sherice J. Nelson, Political Analyst, Author
Douglass Sloan, Political Analyst
Dr. Ravi Perry, Howard University Political Science Professor
The candidates have had their say and now it’s time for voters in Virginia to have the last word. It’s Election Day 2025 in the Commonwealth and my guest this morning wants to remind voters to do their part. My guest this morning is Yolanda Roussell – President of the Stafford County Branch NAACP
The Stafford County Branch NAACP works tirelessly to combat falsehoods and misinformation by presenting researched facts and truthful data. For more information go here: www.staffordnaacp.org
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A new effort in DC to address a shortage of healthcare workers while also providing training, college credits, and job opportunities for city youth. It’s part of a unique initiative called the DC Health Care Employment & Apprenticeship Link Program, or (DC HEAL).
It’s not just filling jobs, it’s changing lives, especially for inner-city youth who now have more pathways to purpose and possibility.
Tonight, we’ll hear from a student who’s already walking that path, and from D.C.’s Deputy Mayor for Education, who’s helping to make it all happen.
Let’s introduce our guests. Guest: Paul Kihn (“K-EYE-N”), DC’s Deputy Mayor for Education Guest: Nykirah Harper – Student at Cesar Chavez Public Charter Schools
Tomorrow will be day 35 of the federal government shutdown and the longest in history. There appears to be no end in sight for the shutdown or the financial strain on families. For some homeowners, the choices are heartbreaking — pay the mortgage, put food on the table, or cover childcare. We’re talking about foreclosure prevention and the growing number of people struggling to keep a roof over their heads. We have resources and options for homeowners about how to stay afloat during these uncertain times. We also have tips for renters about paying the landlord.
Guest:
Ronald Clarkson, Director of Communications and Outreach for Housing Counseling Services, Inc.
Resources:
https://housingetc.org/ https://www.mwcog.org/community/data-and-tools/federal-workforce-resources-and-data/
This morning an opportunity to get up close and personal with their future. My guest has exciting news about the Futures Fair taking place in Prince George’s County this week where youngsters will have a chance to meet with experts from a variety of professions. My guest is Pamela Smith – Director of Career and Technical Education with the Prince George’s County Public School System
Prince George’s County Public Schools is thrilled to host the Discovery Education Futures Fair at Gwynn Park High School on Wednesday, November 5th. The Futures Fair provides an exciting opportunity for students to get hands-on with professions they hope to pursue in STEM, the arts, skilled trades, and much more—making future career paths tangible today. For more information go here: www.pgcps.org
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It’s Halloween, a time that typically is focused on kids trick-or-treating and everyone having a little scary fun. But for many, it’s a really frightening time for their families.
It’s hard to imagine choosing between paying the bills and putting food on the table, but that’s the reality for millions. Due to the ongoing government shutdown, SNAP benefits, a lifeline for 1 in 8 Americans, will be paused tomorrow.
Here in the DMV, families are worried, and food banks and nonprofits are racing to fill the gap.
Guest: LaMonika Jones – Director of DC and Maryland Hunger Solutions
Guest: Dr. Nicole Cooper – Senior Vice President of External Affairs for United Way of the National Capital Region
Guest: Brian Mulholland – Chair of the John Mulholland Family Foundation
A chance this morning to help struggling families while also decluttering your home. WHUR and Briar Patch Shredding and Recycling are teaming up again for another shredding, electronic recycling and food drive. Joining me this morning to talk about the call to action in support of Food2Feed 2025 is Sharifa Freeman – CEO of Briar Patch Shredding and Recycling
WHUR and Briar Patch Shredding and Recycling – Community Shred and Canned Food Drive in support of Food2Feed 2025 is Saturday, November 1st from 9am to 12pm. Bring up to 3 boxes of unwanted documents plus you can bring your unwanted electronics and we will recycle them for free. We ask that you bring some non-perishable food to help feed needy families and children for the holiday season. For more information go here: www.whur.com
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It’s day 29 of the federal government shutdown — and for many families and small businesses across the D.C. region, the struggle is getting harder by the day. Nearly a month without paychecks means rent is late, savings are gone, and the ripple effect is spreading fast. Restaurants are empty, small shops are losing customers, and local economies that rely on federal workers are being pushed to the brink. We’re hearing from the D.C. Chamber of Commerce about how long our community can hold on — and what it will take to bounce back.”
Guest:
Chinyere Hubbard, President and CEO, DC Chamber of Commerce
Resources: https://dcchamber.org/
Mariah Carey is putting a pause on the holiday excitement, for now. In a new social media post, she shared a montage of herself saying “Not yet” in various situations, reminding fans that it’s not Christmas season until she declares it.
While some followers admitted they’ve already started playing “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” Mariah’s caption made it clear that it’s still too early. Traditionally, she kicks off the festive season around November 1.
Fans looking to celebrate can still grab tickets for her “Christmastime in Las Vegas” show at Dolby Live at Park MGM, running November 28 through December 13.
Mariah is also adding to the holiday fun with pop-up holiday bars in select cities featuring themed cocktails, exclusive merchandise, and photo opportunities. Fans are ready to toast the season, just as soon as Mariah gives the green light.
We’re taking a closer look at a crisis in classrooms across the U.S., — the shortage of Black educators, and in particular, Black male teachers. Representation matters, and research shows that when black students have Black teachers, outcomes improve. So why are there so few? We’ll talk with leaders from The Center for Black Educator Development about what’s being done to change that — including their upcoming 2025 Black Men in Education conference.
Resources:
Before there was Kamala harris, before there was BarackObama, there was Jesse Jackson. A new book by Abby Phillip, CNN anchor and host of “News Night” and “Table For Five”, explores the historic, presidential campaigns of the civil rights leader and politician.
The book is titled “A Dream Deferred: Jesse Jackson and the Fight for Black Political Power”.
We are talking this morning to the lovely ladies of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The Federal City Alumnae Chapter is hosting a timely panel discussion inspired by Vice President Kamala Harris’ book “107 Days.” My guest is Vanessa Grant – President Federal City Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority
The Federal City Alumnae Chapter Delta Sigma Theta Sorority president 107 Days: Where Do We Go From Here? This is a panel discussion inspired by Vice President Kamala Harris’ book “107 Days.” The free event is open to the public and will be Thursday, October 30th @ 6:30pm at the Howard University School of Education.
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It can start with a whisper in the hallway… a cruel post online… or a shove when no one’s watching. Bullying doesn’t always make headlines — but for the children living through it, the impact can last a lifetime. As we mark Bullying Prevention Month, the focus turns not only to the kids who are targeted — but also to those who do the targeting. Experts say stopping bullying means more than punishment, it’s about changing behavior, building empathy, and creating spaces where every young person feels safe, seen,and supported. We’ll hear how the DC Office of Human Rights is putting that philosophy into action through its youth bullying prevention program.
Guest:
Ernest Shepard, Program Manager, Youth Bullying Prevention Program. DC Office of Human Rights
This morning a chance to do something fun and creative with the kids and improve their educational outcome too. My guest is hosting a free parent scrapbooking workshop – Coach Alisa Smedley
Free Parent Scrapbooking Workshop with Coach Smedley is Saturday, November 15th at 12pm via Zoom. Learn how to organize your child’s school work, plan a scrapbook day with the kids, and connect with a family mentoring network to build your dreams. You will create a beautiful scrapbook that captures memories. The virtual workshop will be held on Saturday, November 15th at 12 noon via Zoom. Link to Registration Form – https://forms.gle/pa9dDqDf3EUa1hpG9
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Frederick Douglas
The Frederick Douglas Memorial and Historical Association presents Violins for Douglas November 16th at the Howard University Blackburn West Ballroom. www.frederickdouglassmha.org
Scrapbooking Workshop
Learn the art of scrapbooking. A free workshop hosted by Coach Smedley is November 12th. https://bit.ly/42GTPah
100 Black Men
Save the date. The 100 Black Men of Prince George’s County’s Home for the Holidays Gala is December 19th at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt. www.100princegeorges.org
Black Women Thriving
Black Women Thriving East of the River provides services to women in DC’s Wards 7 and 8 to help them live healthier lives. www.thrivingeotr.org
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
The women of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority invite you to their Finer Feathers and Furs event November 22nd at the VFW Post in Suitland https://tinyurl.com/FinerFeathersAndFurs2025
Dancing With the Stars
Join the fight against domestic violence. Attend the 3rd Annual Dancing with the Stars Gala November 15th at Martin’s Crosswinds. It’s hosted by the Prince George’s County Family Justice Center Foundation. www.pgcfamilyjusticecenterfoundation.org
HBCU Pride
Show your HBCU pride. Join the Blake Bozeman Foundation for the HBCU in DC Tip Off Experience November 26th at CareFirst Arena. www.blakebozemanfoundation.org
WHUR PSA’s
Get your non-profit on the air and web. Email Renee Nash at rnash@whur.com at least three weeks before your event.
It’s that time of year again — the yard is buzzing, the music is pumping, and the Bison spirit is alive and unstoppable. This year marks Howard University’s 101st homecoming. “One of One”, a celebration of legacy, pride, and excellence that can only happen at The Mecca. We’re talking with Howard students and alumni about their favorite HU memories, the moments that shaped them, and their hopes for the next century of greatness at “The Real HU.” So, for the next 45 minutes we will hear from the first timers and the seasoned about their HU love and pride. Let’s get to our HU roll call!!!
This morning we are spotlighting The Disney Dreamers Academy a program that’s all about changing lives and making dreams come true. My guest this morning is Princeton Parker – Host and Ambassador of the Disney Dreamers Academy
The Disney Dreamers Academy is an annual mentorship program founded and hosted by Walt Disney World® Resort in 2008 and is designed to foster the dreams of students from underrepresented communities. The program broadens career awareness through a series of career-building workshops, networking sessions, mentorship connections and introductions to future professional opportunities at The Walt Disney Company and beyond.
The Disney Dreamers program is an important part of Disney’s commitment to supporting diverse communities, such as Black America, by encouraging the next generation to dream big and equipping them with tools to make those dreams a reality. Entering its 19th year, Disney Dreamers Academy has inspired more than 1,800 students from across the country by fueling their dreams and showing them a world of possibilities. In the years following, graduates have gone on to become doctors, nurses, engineers, pilots, journalists, scientists, attorney, Disney Cast, and more.
Disney Dreamers Academy consists of virtual and live educational instruction, networking events and live experiences along with an all-expense paid in person event for 100 selected students and a chaperone at Walt Disney World® Resort.
Time is running out for high school students with big dreams to take the next step toward their future, as the Oct. 31st application deadline for the Disney Dreamers Academy is fast approaching. Students can apply or be nominated at DisneyDreamersAcademy.com before it’s too late! Hurry- don’t miss your chance to Be100!
Listen to this mornings segment here:
We’re at the reporters’ roundtable, looking at some of the top stories of the week. As always, there’s a lot going on. We’ll discuss the NBA scandal, the latest with the Trump Administration, an assassination threat against House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, the federal government shut down and much more.
Guests:
Charles Robinson, Correspondent, Maryland Public Television
Brandon Tensley, National Politics Reporter, Capital B News
My guest this morning is in the holiday state of mind. Restoration Outreach Community Center is hosting an Angels Program to provide catered meals and gifts to children and families in need for the holiday season. He is here with a plea to the community. My guest is Josiah Burrough – Representative with Restoration Outreach Community Center.
Restoration Outreach Community Center, a non-profit located in Capital Heights, MD is hosting its Angels Project, a program to provide Christmas gifts and a catered meal to children and their families during the holiday season. They need 80 sponsors by November 30th to meet the number of children on the registry. For more information go here: www.theroccoutreach.com/events.
Listen to this mornings segment here: