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“I Completely Understand, If Someone Is Not Ready”,Will Smith Responds To People That Are Still Upset With Him For The Oscars Slap

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Will Smith recently addressed the people who are still upset with him over his Oscars slap and are not ready to watch his new film, Emancipation. He said, “I completely understand — if someone is not ready, I would absolutely respect that and allow them their space to not be ready.”
He continued, “My deepest concern is my team, Antoine has done what I think is the greatest work of his entire career. The people on this team have done some of the best work of their entire careers, and my deepest hope is that my actions don’t penalize my team. At this point, that’s what I’m working for. He added, “I’m hoping that the material — the power of the film, the timeliness of the story — I’m hoping that the good that can be done would open people’s hearts at a minimum to see and recognize and support the incredible artists in and around this film.”
The movie, “Emancipation” is a true story based on a runaway slaved portrayed by Smith. Peter is best known as “Whipped Peter” for the photo that shows him with keloid whip scars on his back. The film takes you through the journey of Peter and his escape.
The director Antoine Fuqua did a recent interview with Vanity Fair , he said, “The film to me is bigger than that moment. Four hundred years of slavery is bigger than one moment. My hope is that people will see it that way and watch the movie and be swept away with the great performance by Will and all the real hard work that the whole crew did.”

Jill Biden Chooses White House Holiday Theme

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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According to Washington Post, “Public rooms are dedicated to unifying forces: honoring and remembering deceased loved ones, words and stories, kindness and gratitude, food and traditions, nature and recreation, songs and sounds, unity and hope, faith and light, and children.”

First lady Jill Biden is sharing the theme for the seasonal White House holiday decorations. A release from the East Wing says the theme will be, “We the People.”

The Bidens also released a statement saying, “As our country gathers for the holidays, traditions may vary, but our shared American values – a belief in possibility, optimism, and unity – endure season after season.” Jill Biden will officially unveil the holiday decorations and make remarks today, as more than 150 volunteers descended on the White House to decorate the public rooms.

We all remember the last four years, of either the blood-red trees or “Be Best” themes that decorated the halls of the “White House”. Seems to us that Jill is making herself at home with the themes that would will be pleasant to the eyes.

Conversation with DC Attorney General Karl Racine

We’re talking to him about several criminal justice issues.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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DC’s first elected Attorney General Karl Racine will leave office at the end of this year.  He didn’t run for a third term and he’ll be replaced by Brian Schwalb… who was elected earlier this month.  But Racine has remained busy since the election. We’re talking to him about several criminal justice issues.

Two rescued After Mont. Co. Plane crash; Power Restored

The county’s public school system closed its schools and offices Monday due to the outage’s impact on safety and school operations.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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MONTGOMERY VILLAGE, Md. (AP) — Crews on Monday rescued the injured pilot and passenger of a small plane that crashed into a Maryland electricity transmission tower, knocking out power for tens of thousands of customers and leaving the aircraft dangling 10 stories off the ground.

The plane crashed into the tower that supports high-tension lines at around 5:40 p.m. Sunday and got stuck about 100 feet (30 meters) above the ground, Montgomery County Fire Chief Scott Goldstein said. The crash happened about a mile from the Montgomery County Airpark in Montgomery Village, a Washington, D.C., suburb. It knocked out power in the surrounding area and caused Metrorail delays.

Video from the scene showed numerous rescue personnel and vehicles surrounding the tower shortly after it happened. At the time of the crash, the conditions were misty and rainy, said Pete Piringer, a spokesperson for the county’s Fire & Rescue Service.

Piringer said the rescue was complicated by the fact that the lines were live when the plane hit.

After electrical workers made sure it was safe to try to reach the pilot and passenger, who were in contact with authorities via cellphone and were anxious to be rescued, crews secured the plane to the tower at around 12:15 a.m. Monday and took the two to safety a few minutes later, officials said.

The State Police identified the pilot as Patrick Merkle, 65, of Washington, D.C., and the passenger as Janet Williams, 66, of Marrero, Louisiana. Both had serious but non-life-threatening injuries, and hypothermia set in while they waited to be rescued, Goldstein said. Their rescue was faster than anticipated since the pilot and passenger were able to assist, he said. One of them has been released from the hospital.  The other person will remain in the hospital for at least another day and is listen in stable condition.

The plane was later lowered to the ground revealing a crushed front end.

The single-engine Mooney M20J had departed White Plains, New York, the Federal Aviation Administration said in a statement. The FAA, National Transportation Safety Board and Maryland State Police are investigating.

The utility Pepco had reported that power was temporarily cut to about 120,000 customers in Montgomery County, but it was restored to most of them before the people were rescued.

The county’s public school system closed its schools and offices Monday due to the outage’s impact on safety and school operations.

DC Public Schools Requiring Negative COVID Test Today

Parents had until nine last night to upload the results online or show proof in person this morning.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Washington, DC) — Some children in the nation’s capital may not be allowed in class today. D.C. Public Schools is requiring all students to test negative for coronavirus before returning from the Thanksgiving holiday. Parents had until nine last night to upload the results online or show proof in person this morning. The schools had been handing out tests since the week before break and offering them at the city’s COVID centers in all eight wards.

Pastor Smokie Norful’s Sons Brought Him Back To Recording

Posted by Jacquie Gales Webb
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Anointed Gospel singer, songwriter, and musician Smokie Norful’s sons encouraged him to record again after 20 years. He talks about his latest hit, “I Still Have You” that was written in the middle of the pandemic.

https://youtu.be/4qLPcKyln44

Irene Cara, Oscar Winning Singer And Actress Of ‘FLASHDANCE And ‘FAME’, Passes Away At 63

Irene Cara, most recognized for her ’80s hits “Flashdance” and “Fame” has passed away.

According to TMZ, Cara passed away Friday in her Florida home. There are no details of her death.

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Irene Cara, most recognized for her ’80s hits “Fame” and “Flashdance” has passed away.

According to TMZ, Cara passed away Friday in her Florida home of undisclosed cause.

Her publicist Judith A. Moose wrote, “It is with profound sadness that on behalf of her family I announce the passing of Irene Cara. Irene’s family has requested privacy as they process their grief. She was a beautifully gifted soul whose legacy will live forever through her music and films.”

She was an Oscar award winner for her original song “What A Feeling” , from the movie “Flashdance”.

Irene put her name in lights with her Golden Globe nomination  for ” Best Actress” in the movie “Fame” that featured her hit song, “Fame”.

Cara’s movie career includes  “City Heat,” co-starring Clint Eastwood and Burt Reynolds. She was in the move “Certain Fury”opposite Tatum O’Neal.

She was honored in 2004 with the Prestige Award for Lifetime Achievement.

Irene was 63.

Fauci Urges COVID Boosters During Last WH Briefing

Fauci has advised seven U.S. presidents and served during the HIV-Aids epidemic, West Nile virus and Ebola threats.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Washington, DC) — White House Chief Medical Adviser Anthony Fauci is urging Americans to get their COVID-19 boosters. He did so in likely his last briefing on the pandemic. Fauci earlier this year announced he’ll step down in December from his roles running the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and advising the White House. Speaking to reporters, Fauci said the data overwhelmingly shows COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective, noting that hundreds of millions of doses have been distributed in the U.S. He called on Americans to make sure they get their COVID-19 booster shots as the winter months approach. Fauci has advised seven U.S. presidents and served during the HIV-Aids epidemic, West Nile virus and Ebola threats.

Would You Consider Changing The Mac-N-Cheese Recipe? Adding This Unexpected Spice Could Change The Game At The Dinner Table

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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According to Suggest adding this spice to the staple piece could give your mac-n-cheese a new spin.

This year, take everyone’s favorite dish up a notch with nutmeg.  It only takes a little, about an eighth of a teaspoon. The seasoning foundation for béchamel sauce is nutmeg. That is the creamy, thick white sauce that serves as the foundation for various sauces, including the classic mac and cheese sauce.

Classic béchamel sauce includes butter, flour, milk, nutmeg, and salt. You can find the complete recipe here.

If you’ve never used nutmeg and too afraid to try something new, maybe add this dish for a regular dinner menu. This way you can have the taste to perfection by the time a major holiday comes up.

Now if you have any suggestions, head to Facebook or Instagram to comment some tips for the people that will be cooking for the first time this year.

 

Walmart Employee Opens Fire In Store: Here’s What We Know

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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A mass shooting in Walmart located in  Chesapeake, Va. took place overnight,

Here is what we know:

  • A Walmart store manager was the lone gunman who opened fire in the store overnight mass shooting .
  • He shot and killed 6 people are dead.
  • The shooting  took place around 10:15pm at the Walmart on Sam’s Circle.
  • Investigators believe the gunman died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
  • At least four people remain hospitalized Wednesday.

This shooting took place just days before Thanksgiving, this is truly sad.

According to CNN, Walmart released a statement, saying they are “shocked at the tragedy that unfolded in one of its stores.”

“We’re praying for those impacted, the community and our associates. We’re working closely with law enforcement, and we are focused on supporting our associates,” the company said in the statement.

Families are still mourning their loss in where a 22-year-old student of University of Virginia in Charlottesville killed three fellow classmates.

Also, just a week ago the shooting in a Denver, Co. LGBTQ+ nightclub , where a 22-year-old killed 5 people.

The shooting that took place last month in Raleigh, NC. in the Hedingham neighborhood, where a 15 year-old killed his 16 year-old brother and 5 others.

Our prayers are with all these families.

 

 

 

SC Sen. Graham Testifies Before GA Grand Jury

Graham is one of a number of high-profile Trump allies whose testimony has been sought.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Atlanta, GA)  —  Senator Lindsey Graham is answering questions about the 2020 presidential election before a special grand jury in Atlanta.  A statement from the Republican senator after the two-hour-long ordeal said he “feels he was treated with respect.”  That comment comes after the South Carolina lawmaker fought to block the grand jury’s subpoena for months in a legal battle that even went to the Supreme Court

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis launched the investigation early last year. It is considered one of the most significant potential legal threats to the former president, who last week announced a third run for the White House. Graham is one of a number of high-profile Trump allies whose testimony has been sought.

 

SCOTUS Rejects Trump’s Tax Returns Plea

The Supreme Court has refused to block those records from being released to the Democrat-led panel. 

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Washington, DC)  —  Former President Trump’s tax returns will soon likely be in the hands of a House committee.  The Supreme Court has refused to block those records from being released to the Democrat-led panel.  The court’s refusal to intervene came after Chief Justice John Roberts stopped the process earlier this month.  The House Ways and Means Committee wanted the documents.  The court’s ruling comes as Democrats are losing control of the House after the first of the year.

{UPDATE} Kobe Bryant’s Daughter Natalia Bryant Natalia Bryant Files Restraining Order Against Stalker Who Wants “A Kobe-Like Child Together”

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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UPDATE DECEMBER 16, 2022:

Kobe Bryant’s daughter, Natalia, scored a legal victory and was granted a restraining order against her alleged stalker.

Natalia will get three years of protection with this restraining order, and the alleged stalker will have to surrender all his guns.

ORIGINAL STORY NOVEMBER 22,2022

According to TMZ, Natalia Bryant, daughter of Kobe and Vanessa Bryant, was in court Monday to file a restraining order against 32-year-old Dwayne Kemp.

Documents describe Kemp as trying hard to contact her since she was 17 years-old. She’s never met or made contact with him. Allegedly, he’s gone as far as showing up to her class and sorority house.

Reports also show that he has criminal history and was convicted of at least four crimes, including one with firearms.

Bryant made claims the Kemp sent her a DM picture of her late father Kobe Bryant and wrote, “Thankful For Him Birthing You, Hopefully We Can Birth Him… ‘Kobe'”. The documents mentions he hopes to have “a Kobe-like child together.”

The court documented order is asking that the stalker to stay at least 200 yards away from her, her home, job, school, sorority house and car.

No update as of now in regard to the ruling from the judge.

 

Never Used A BBQ Grill And Picking Thanksgiving To Be The First Time: 3 Tips For First Timers On The Grill

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Not everyone was able to learn how to start and cook using a Bar-B-Que grill. It’s bold to try before or on a holiday, but it’s worth a try. It’s wise to have a back up plan, just in case.

Below we found 3 tips to get you started, because we figure someone out there is preparing their first holiday dinner, and maybe considering a nontraditional method to the table.

One might think about smoking a turkey. Smokers are nice and fancy, but you can use a grill. This was a helpful tip with inexpensive equipment.

This is a bonus with 5 in 1 video. Very great tips for those that are grill newbies.

Here are some amazing tips to start up your grill and a rub for your food that you could consider for your dinner.

The best part of these videos, each one has very helpful methods that can be great for those that have been grilling for years or never did it before today.

Medical Monday: Diabetes & Thanksgiving Eating

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month and this is the perfect time for diabetics to watch their numbers.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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We’re officially in holiday season mode and that also means holiday season eating.  You might think picking up a few pounds it a big concern.  But for diabetics… there are more serious considerations that will pop up around the Thanksgiving table.  November is National Diabetes Awareness Month and this is the perfect time for diabetics to watch their numbers.

Dr. Gail Nunlee-Bland, MD, Director, Howard University Hospital Diabetes Treatment Center

Providing Holiday Meals for Families in Need

The Steve Harvey Morning Show, WHUR and Shabach Ministries are teaming up to provide Thanksgiving meals for families in the DMV.

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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It’s all about doing good in the neighborhood. The Steve Harvey Morning Show, WHUR, and Shabach Ministries are back in the streets this morning to provide holiday meals to families in need.  Joining me to share this good news is Gwen Pope – Manager of the Shabach Emergency Resource Center.  My guest is Gwen Pope  – Manager of the Shabach Emergency Resource Center

 The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Shabach Ministries and WHUR are teaming up to provide a turkey and all of the fixings to dozens of families across the DMV.  It’s our way of making sure we address the issue of hunger in our region.

 

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Kierra Sheard Shares Her Miracle Testimony Behind Her New Song

Posted by Jacquie Gales Webb
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Gospel artist, actress and entreprenuer Kierra Sheard shares the miracle story behind her new song with Pastor Mike Jr and talks about her clothing line and what it was like to play her mother Karen Clark Sheard in the Clark Sisters biopic.

https://youtu.be/fjZFe_3z1cA

{WATCH} Did You Miss Our 50th Anniversary ‘Night Of Excellence’?

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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We told you, you didn’t want to miss out. If you did, that is fine. We want to share with you a night to remember, our Night Of Excellence.

RELATED ARTICLE: {LISTEN} Top 5 Songs You Have To Hear John Gill Sing At Night Of Excellence

The night was filled with your favorite on-air personalities in the building and Frank Ski on the 1s and 2s. Host comedian George Willborn kept the crowd laughing in between the R&B legends Stokley, Marsha Ambrosius, and Johnny Gill.

The Night Of Excellence 50th Anniversary was celebrated November 18th at the DAR Constitutional Hall.

Check out what you missed or just want to reminisce:

Click here to comment on out Instagram, your favorite moment of the night.

 

World Vegan Month

What do you need to know about going vegan?

Posted by Harold Fisher
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With Thanksgiving just around the corner, a lot of us are thinking about turkey with all the trimmings.  But a growing number of us are cutting out meat and meat by-products.
They’re not just going vegetarian, they’re going vegan.  If you’re thinking about it now, or even after the holidays… what do you need to know?

Resources:

Ruby Reds Vegan

Dr. Ruby Lathon

Dr. Ruby Lathon, Ph.D., Holistic Health & Wellness Expert/ Plant-Based Nutrition Advocate

 

 

Nancy Pelosi Not Seeking Re-Election To Democratic Leadership

The California Democrat has served as Speaker on two separate occasions.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Washington, DC) — House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is not seeking re-election to House Democratic leadership. She made the announcement after Republicans were projected to retake the House next year. The California Democrat has served as Speaker on two separate occasions. She first got that position in 2007 and then got the Speaker’s gavel back in 2019. Her decision to aside from leadership comes weeks after her husband was badly injured during an attack in their California home.

{LISTEN} Top 5 Songs You Have To Hear John Gill Sing At Night Of Excellence

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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John Gill, a DMV native is coming home to join us for our golden year anniversary at A Night Of Excellence.

The R&B sensation  has soothed us with his vocals for over 30 years. His hit songs go on and on but we wanted to take the time to highlight our favorite five hits.

My, My, My was released 1990. Gill was nominated for a Grammy for Best R&B Song. He won a Soul Train Music Award for Best R&B/Soul Male Single. The song was nominated for the Soul Train Music Award for Song Of The Year.

Soul Of A Woman is on his 2019 8th solo album titled Game Changer II.

Giving My All To You , was on the self titled 1990 album Johny Gill along with My, My,My.

There U Go can be heard on the soundtrack of the 1992 movie classic, Boomerang, and you instantly had a flashback.

Rub You the Right Way single topped the Billboard Hot 100.

This is far from all the classics from Gill but we are sure he will woo the audience with so much more.

 

 

Helping Families At Risk of Experiencing Homelessness

Community Connections has created the “Helping Hands” Fund.

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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Assisting those who are experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness.  My guest this morning is on the frontlines fighting the good fight to help combat homelessness in DC and she has a big campaign underway as part of Community Connections Helping Hands Fund.  My guest is Cynthia Flemmings – Housing subsidy Manager for Community connections

Community Connections has created what it callings The Helping Hands Fund to provide critical, short term financial assistance for families and individual who are experiencing homelessness or are in imminent risk of losing their housing.  For more information go here:

 

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Reporters’ Roundtable

Analysis of the top stories of the week.

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We have a lot to talk about at the Reporters’ Roundtable as we examine the top stories of the week.  We have another building explosion in Montgomery County.  Former President Trump runs again.  Democrats keep control of The Senate… but Republicans have control of The House.  The University of Virginia mourns the deadly shooting of members of its football team.  HBCU bomb threats and the juvenile suspect and a Black man beaten by sheriff’s deputies in a Georgia jail.

Mary C. Curtis, Columnist, Roll Call, Host, The Equal Time Podcast

Jamila Bey, News Editor, Paramount

Gaithersburg Building Explosion

There’s no word yet on what caused the blast.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Gaithersburg, MD) — At least a dozen people are hurt, including two critically, after a fiery explosion at a condo complex in Maryland. Crews responded to a residence in Gaithersburg, outside of Washington,DC, just before 9 o’clock this morning. Ten of the victims had to be hospitalized, including two adults who suffered traumatic injuries. Four children are also in the hospital. Authorities say the building was reduced to rubble, and they’re conducting additional searches. There’s no word yet on what caused the blast.

$30K and Still Counting. Thank You for Giving to Food2Feed

WHUR Food2Feed Radiothon makes Thanksgiving possible for thousands as the station’s listeners show the power of caring and sharing.

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Washington, D.C. (Wednesday, November 16, 2022) – A rainy cold Tuesday across the DMV was not enough to dampen the spirits of the generous listeners of 96.3 WHUR.  They dug deep in their wallets donating $30,000 and a truckload of non-perishable food to make sure needy individuals and families around the Washington region can put food on the table for the Thanksgiving holiday season.

It was all part of the station’s 44th Annual Food2Feed Radiothon.  The donations go to help the Capital Area Food Bank and Shabach Ministries, Inc. to feed food insecure residents across the DMV.  It is estimated that one in every 3 families across the region struggles to find food on any given day.  “We know that inflation and the lingering pandemic continue to make it difficult for many to make ends meet.  Events like Food2Feed provide a lifeline for those persons,” said Cynthia Terry CEO of Shabach Ministries.

From 6am to 6pm, the radio station committed its programming to share the stories and the messages about the plight of hunger in the District of Columbia and its surrounding suburbs. To add to the mission, dozens of Howard University students volunteered their time to stand outside in the pouring rain to help take monetary and canned food donations from motorists and pedestrians.

Listeners were encouraged throughout the day to go online to www.whur.com to make a donation or to drop by the radio station.  They heeded that message from near and afar.  Donations came in online from across the DMV, but also listeners outside the area joined in to give.  “The power of caring and sharing is always so evident when we host Food2Feed.  The generosity our listeners show to help others is truly inspiring and a blessing,” said WHUR General Manager Sean Plater.

“We got donations from listeners outside the region from the United Kingdom, Canada, and Florida just to name a few.  I always say we have the best listeners in the world and Food2Feed helps to prove that point,” added Plater.

There is still time to give to make this Thanksgiving special for those in need.  Just click the Food2Feed button on the website.  The Food2Feed radiothon was powered by BZB, Macys, Truist Bank, and FedEx.

Providing Handmade Blankets for The Homeless

The Memorial Blanket Project is looking of handmade blankets to give to the homeless

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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It’s always a good time to help those in need.  This morning we spotlight a heart warming effort underway to provide blankets to the homeless and I have the details on how you can help.  It’s called the Memorial Blanket Project.  My guest is Pat LaMarche – Project Manager for the Memorial Blanket Project

The Homeless Memorial Blanket Project is collecting donated handmade blankets now through December 20th.  Organizers are inviting blanket makers to drop off their creations at the Lutheran Church of the Reformation at 212 East Capitol Street NE Monday thru Thursday between 9am to 5pm.  For more information go here: 

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Student Loans, Holiday Spending and Debt. 

How do you manage your own finances in a tricky economy?

Posted by Harold Fisher
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You’ve heard the news.  President Biden’s student loan debt forgiveness plan is tied up in the federal courts.  That breather ,a lot of people were hoping for, is on hold for now.  That’s means you still owe.  Heading into the holiday spending season… that’s one temptation you may need to avoid. Student loans, holiday spending and debt.  How do you manage your own finances in a tricky economy?

Resources:

StudentAid.gov

Dr. Tisa Silver Canady, Author, Student Loan Debt Expert

Muriel Garr, Financial Advisor

Trump Prepares 3rd Presidential Campaign

An announcement was expected at 9 p.m. EST Tuesday from his club in Palm Beach.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Former President Donald Trump is preparing to launch his third campaign for the White House on Tuesday, looking to move on from disappointing midterm defeats and defy history amid signs that his grip on the Republican Party is waning.

Trump had hoped to use the GOP’s expected gains in last week’s elections as a springboard to vault himself to his party’s nomination. Instead, he finds himself being blamed for backing a series of losing candidates after Republicans failed to take control of the Senate. While the party was on the cusp of retaking control of the House on Tuesday, it could end up with its narrowest majority in decades.

“Hopefully, tomorrow will turn out to be one of the most important days in the history of our Country!” Trump wrote on his social media network on Monday. An announcement was expected at 9 p.m. EST Tuesday from his club in Palm Beach.

Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month

Information and resources about Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted by Harold Fisher
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It is a terrible, terrible disease.  Alzheimer’s disease is more than memory loss.  It’s a deadly, mentally and physically debilitating disease.  It’s also challenging for family members and caretakers.  November is Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month.  During our Medical Monday conversation… we’ll have information for you and you’ll hear from a former elected official who lost his wife to the disease.

Resources:

Alzheimer’s Association

EvON Medics

Dr. Mosunmnola Oyawusi, MD, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Neurology, Howard University College of Medicine
Rushern Baker, Former Prince George’s County Executive, Board Member, Christa Beverly Foundation

Dr. Corrine Pettigrew, Ph.D., Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

DC’s “Dancing Grandma” Passes at Age 113

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Washington, D.C. (Tuesday, November 14, 2022) – Virginia McLaurin affectionately known as “DC’s Dancing Grandmother,” died today surrounded by family members and friends at her Olney, Maryland home.  Ms. McLaurin was 113 years old.  She moved to Maryland in 2019 so family members could help care for her.

McLaurin made international headlines back in February 2016 after a video of her dancing with President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama went viral during a visit to the White House.  At that time, she was awarded a service medal  during an annual White House Black History month event.

A GoFund has been set up to help family members pay her final arrangements.  https://gofund.me/521aac66

Virginia McLaurin was born March 12, 1909.  She was a tireless volunteer with the United Planning Organization (UPO) as part of their Foster Grandparent program working with youth at C.  Melvin Sharpe Health School until its closing in 2015.

She married the late Marshall McLaurin at age 14. They had two children, Ida Mae and Willie McLaurin. While raising her young children she worked in the cotton and peanut fields to help support her family. The young family moved to Laurinburg, NC where she worked as a domestic and nannie. Tragedy struck when her husband was killed and at age 17 she was left to raise her small children alone.

The children’s grandparents briefly cared for her children while she relocated to her sister’s home in Washington, DC to start a new life for her family. She secured employment as a domestic/nannie with the families of two DC physicians and brought her children to DC. During this period she assumed the care of a third child Felipe Cardoza age 3 when his single father remarried and the new wife did not want the child. She legally adopted Felipe it at age 14. At age 55 she changed careers and worked as a seamstress for a small local dry cleaningbusiness where she alter clothes, sewed on military chevrons etc. Following her second retirement she joined the United Planning Organization Foster Grandparent Program in October, 1994 and served the children of the District of Columbia for Twenty four years.

She is always willing to share a laugh or a story of days gone by. Grandma Virginia McLaurin exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism in every step she takes and shines a bright light on how volunteerism is good food for the soul, spirit and mind.

The UPO Foster Grandparent Program highlights the best of the human spirit, the best of public private partnership and great impact of federal dollars in addressing local problems with local solutions. The War on Poverty is not over but we relish the small victories of volunteer soldiers like Grandma Virginia McLaurin on the educational battlefield.

Undefeated Eagles Host Commanders On MNF

Last weekend the Commanders had a three-game winning streak snapped.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Philadelphia, PA) — The Eagles are putting their undefeated record on the line in prime-time. Philadelphia hosts the Commanders for a Monday night showdown at Lincoln Financial Field. The Eagles lead the NFL with a perfect 8-and-oh record and come off a 29-17 win over the Texans in Week Nine. Cornerback C.J. Gardner-Johnson had an interception in the victory and now leads the league with five on the season. Washington is looking to bounce back from a close loss to the Vikings last weekend. The Commanders had a three-game winning streak snapped and dropped to 4-and-5. Taylor Heinicke has thrown five touchdowns and three picks in three games since taking over as starter.

Washington Commanders Quarterback Taylor Heinicke

UVA Shooting Suspect In Custody After Shooting

Two other students were also injured in the shooting.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Charlottesville, VA) — Police say the suspect in a shooting that left three University of Virginia football players dead is in custody. Authorities announced the capture of Christopher Darnell Jones, Jr., a former U-V-A football player. while giving details about a manhunt. Police don’t have details on how he was apprehended. Two other students were also injured in the shooting. It’s currently unknown if Jones had a relationship with any of those he fired upon.

Food2Feed, It’s Our Season of Giving Back

Our 44th Annual Food2Feed Radiothon is tomorrow from 6am -6pm. Come help us help those less fortunate.

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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44 years and the mission remains the same.  WHUR is gearing up for our Annual fundraiser to help feed those in need during the holiday season.  It’s the 2022 Food2Feed Radiothon and I have our Deputy General Manager with me to give us all the details.  My guest is Steve Robinson – Deputy General Manager for WHUR

The 44thAnnual WHUR Food2Feed Radiothon is Tuesday, November 15thfrom 6am to 6[m at the studios of WHUR. We are collection monetary and non-perishable donations to help feed the needy for the holiday season.  Give right now at www.whur.com.

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Travis Greene On Intentional Intimacy With God

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Award-winning Gospel artist and Forward City Lead Pastor Travis Greene shares the inspiration behind the song “Tent Revival” and the importance of scheduling time in your life for intimacy with God.

https://youtu.be/82MhgzLvanU

Sports Roundtable: The Washington Commanders may be up for sale?

Plenty happening in the sports world this week as we try to cover all the bases.

Posted by Andrea Muñoz
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So much going on in the sports world this week.  The Washington Commanders may be up for sale.  Kyrie Irving faces allegations of anti-antisemitism, and oh, we can’t forget the World Series.  Plus, there’s plenty more taking place on the field, ice and hardcourts.  Tonight, it’s a sports roundtable.

AUDIO:

Guest:

Kelsey Nelson   – Fox Sports, Reporter & Host of Keep It Simple

Macy’s Holiday Kickoff

Macy’s Holiday Event is taking place next Monday November 14th from 6pm-9pm

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas and our good friends at Macy’s are helping us get into the holiday state of mind. The Big Macy’s Holiday kickoff event gets underway Monday and I have the details to make sure you can join in on the fun.  My guest is Shantelle George – Senior Director and Store Manager at Macy’sDowntown Metro Center

Macy’s Holiday Event is Monday, November 14thfrom 6pm to 9pm at Macy’s Downtown Metro Center @1201 G Street, NW DC. For more information go here:

 

Tune in each morning 6:15, 7:08 and 8:40 to get the latest on what’s going on around the DMV

Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube  and Instagram @bobbygailes. 

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Christmas At The Gaylord

The ICE Holiday feature is back at the Gaylord through December 31st.

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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It’s never too early to get into the holiday spirit and Gaylord National is helping us to get there.  They are back with their signature Christmas at Gaylord.  It’s an amazing Ice exhibit that ‘s filled with larger than life sculptures and lots of fun for the entire family.  My guest is Patrice Clayton – Public Relations Manager for Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center

All new ICE returns at the National Gaylord from November 20ththrough December 31st. Step into a wonderland carved by expert artisans out of two million pounds of colorful ice.   For more information go here:

Tune in each morning 6:15, 7:08 and 8:40 to get the latest on what’s going on around the DMV

Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube  and Instagram @bobbygailes. 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

 

Midterm Election Night 2022

We analyze the issues and races

Posted by Harold Fisher
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These are a lot of issues sending voters to the polls this election season nationally and locally. Tonight we’re going analyze the issues and races as we discuss what’s at stake.

Ebony McMorris, White House Correspondent, American Urban Radio Network
Charles Ellison, Editor, The BENote.com
Whitley Yates, Political Analyst, Director of Diversity, Indiana Republican Party

Charles Robinson, Senior Reporter, Maryland Public Television

DMV Voters Are Getting It Done On Election Day

Some problems being reported at a few polling sites across the DMV. But for the most part things are running smoothly for those looking to cast their ballots on this election day.

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Washington, D.C. (Tuesday, November 8, 2022) – Sitting at home was not an option for DMV voters we spoke to on Election Day 2022.  A steady stream of voters could be seen through out the day at voting precincts in DC and Prince George’s County.  Here’s a small sample of what a few of them had to say about the importance of exercising their right.

There have been a few glitches reported across the region.  Maryland and Virginia have reported malfunctions with some digital polls books that have caused some delays.  But nothing major.

Polls are open in Virginia until 7pm.  DC and Maryland voters have until 8pm to cast their ballots.  If you are in line at closing time, you will be allowed to vote.

{UPDATE} You Could Be A Billionaire Today , But You Won’t Know Until …

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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UPDATE: 09:55am EST November 8th:

The winning numbers are: 10-33-41-47-56 Powerball: 10

PREVIOUS STORY: 09:34am EST

The highly anticipated lottery has reached $1.9 billion dollars. The drawing was supposed to be announced Monday evening but according to the California Lottery, the “drawing is delayed due to a participating lottery needing extra time to complete the required security protocols.”

Today, it is coincidental that the Powerball being delayed due to “technical issues, it’s election day , the solar eclipse (last one for 3 years).  Now we are all waiting on several results. Did you vote today?

Related: What You Need To Know Before Voting

Unfortunately there isn’t an update on when the numbers will be available.

This is the moment you ask yourself the one question: If today you find out that you are a Billionaire or at cash value a Millionaire, are you going back to work?

We want to know:

Check your numbers here when they are available.

Check out how people are responding to the Powerball delay:

https://twitter.com/n0tIindsay/status/1589836976978808833?s=20&t=mSNYCwI9-bfllH5cStUlzw

Honoring A Mainstay In The DC Community

The documentary of Lees Flower Shop is this Wednesday at 6:30pm at the MLK Memorial Library

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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Here’s your chance to enjoy the story of a rich part of our community and support Black filmmakers.  I have the details this morning about the premiere of a documentary highlighting and celebrating the historic Lee’s Flower and Card Shop on U Street in NW DC.  My guests are Kamilah Thurmon –  Filmmaker  and Stacie Lee – Owner of Lee’s Flower and Card Shop

The Legacy Documentary of Lees Flower Shop by Filmmaker Kamilah Thurmon is Wednesday, November 9th at 6:3pm at MLK Memorial Library in NW DC. For more information and to attend the event go here:

 

Tune in each morning 6:15, 7:08 and 8:40 to get the latest on what’s going on around the DMV

Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube  and Instagram @bobbygailes. 

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

 

What You Need To Know Before Voting

What’s at stake?

Posted by Harold Fisher
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Election day is tomorrow for what is being billed as the most consequential midterm elections in decades.  What’s at stake?
What do you need to know if you haven’t voted yet? We have a lot to talk about tonight.

LaTosha Brown, Co-Founder, Black Voters Matter
 

Damon Hewitt, President/Executive Director, Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law

Powerball Jackpot Reaches $1.9 Billion

The odds of winning the big jackpot are one in 292 million.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(New York, NY) — The Powerball jackpot for tonight’s drawing is at a level never seen before, one-point-nine billion dollars. This is after no one won the top prize in Saturday’s drawing. There were numerous smaller prize winning tickets sold in multiple states. The odds of winning the big jackpot are one in 292 million.

Six Metro Stations Reopen After Construction Closure

The transit agency also plans to have more trains running before Thanksgiving and improve frequency for Red, Blue, Orange and Silver lines next month.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Alexandria, VA) — The work week is starting off with six Metro stations reopen along Blue and Yellow lines. Service resumed yesterday after being closed for eight weeks. Crews are building tracks for the new Potomac Yard Station, and repairing the Yellow Line tunnel and bridge. The transit agency also plans to have more trains running before Thanksgiving and improve frequency for Red, Blue, Orange and Silver lines next month.

A Powerful Production, “The Till Trilogy”

The Mosaic Theater is presenting The Till Trilogy, running through November 20th

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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We are taking you to the theatre this morning on Taking It to the Streets.  I have the details about a powerful performance underway at the Mosiac Theatre.  It’s call the Till Trilogy and it details the tragic events surrounding the killing of Emmett Till and the ongoing fight for racial justice.  My guest is Rolonda Watts – Entertainer and Actor in Mosaic Theater’s Production

 The Till Trilogy runs thru Novemeber 20th at the Mosaic Theater.  For more information go here:

 

Tune in each morning 6:15, 7:08 and 8:40 to get the latest on what’s going on around the DMV

Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube  and Instagram @bobbygailes. 

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Girls On the Run, Blanket Project, and Bullying

Check out the upcoming ways you can give back and participate in community activities across the DMV. All the details are inside this week’s WHUR Community’s Choice

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Homemade Blankets

You can help the homeless. The Memorial Blanket Project is collecting homemade blankets for the winter through December 20th. www.memorialblanket.org

Community Connections

Community Connections has created a helping hands fund to provide critical short term assistance for families facing homelessness and they need your help. www.ccdc1.org

Cartoon Network Bullying

The Cartoon Network reminds you to stop bullying… speak up. Learn how to help kids develop greater kindness, compassion, and empathy skills before bullying starts. www.cartoonnetwork.com

Top Ladies of Distinction

Top Ladies of Distinction is hosting a virtual game night fundraiser November 18th. Join in on the fun. www.prctlod.org

Girls On the Run

Lace up your shoes and join Girls on the Run DC for their of of the season community 5k November 20th at Anacostia Park. www.gotrdc.org/5k

Rotary Club Public Speaking

Help your team learn to skills to speak in public. The Rotary Club of Charles County is offering free public speaking workshops for county students. www.myrotary.org

WHUR’s Community’s Choice

To get your non-profit on the air and web, email Renee Nash at rnash@whur.com at least three weeks prior to your event.

Housing Counseling

Did you know the DC Human Rights Act prohibits housing providers from discriminating based on marital status? Get the facts. Contact Housing Counseling Services, Inc. www.housingetc.org

A Conversation with DC Auditor….Kathy Patterson

One-on-one with DC Auditor Kathy Patterson.

Posted by Andrea Muñoz
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The office of the DC auditor states that its mission is “to support the Council of the District of Columbia by making sound recommendations that improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and accountability of the District government.”

Tonight, we’re going to talk to the person who leads that office to discuss what the audit office does and why.

AUDIO:

Guest:

Kathy Patterson – Auditor, District of Columbia

Financial Planning with Deborah Owens

Two new credit models are in place that the FHFA says will help millions get loans.

Posted by Andrea Muñoz
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The Federal Housing Finance Agency, also known as FHFA, has approved to new credit scoring models that it says will help those who have traditionally found it difficult to quality for home mortgages; that includes African Americans.  But, with interest rates continuing to rise, will those credit report changes have the opportunity to have much any impact?  We’re diving into that and more tonight.

AUDIO:

Guest:

Deborah Owens, Author, Wealth Coach, Founder & CEO WealthyU

Political Roundtable: What’s Driving People to Polls…

What are the issues that will send voters to the both to cast their ballots?

Posted by Andrea Muñoz
Posted on
Election day is November 8th and there are many issues that are before voters.  Some of those include abortion and voting rights, the economy, and crime.

Tonight, we want to hear from our listeners regarding the issues that are driving them to the polls.

AUDIO:

Guest:

Dr. Ravi Perry – Former Chair, Department of Political Science, Howard University

Reecie Colbert – Political Analyst and Founder, Black Women Views

Michael Harriot – Host, The Grio Black Podcast Network