Blog

It’s Our Season of Giving

WHUR’s 20th Annual Children’s Coat Drive is this Saturday

WHUR Coat Drive is coming up this weekend and we are issuing the call again to help provide new coats, hats, and gloves for needy youth in the DMV.  My guest this morning is Renee Nash – Director of News and Public Affairs

The  20thAnnual WHUR Children’s Coat Drive is Saturday, October 8thfrom 12pm to 4pm at the Shops at Iverson.  We are need of ne coats, hats, and gloves.  For more information and to donate, 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:

Wellness Wednesday: Anxiety

We take a look at what anxiety is and how it can be treated.

Two weeks ago, a national panel of medical experts from the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force called for routine anxiety disorder screening for adults.  The panel said the recommendation will help prevent mental health disorders from being undetected and untreated. During our Wellness Wednesday conversation we take a look at what anxiety is and how it can be treated.

Resouces:

Clinicians of Color

Dr. Dawn Reynolds, Psychiatrist, Elion Wellness Center

Dr. Marius Commodore, Psychiatrist, Medical Director of Behavioral Health, Thirty Madison

DC Deputy Mayor on Leave After Alleged Assault

Geldart is accused of grabbing a man by the throat during a dispute.

Christopher Geldart, DC’s Deputy Mayor for Public Safety has taken personal leave after being accused of assault. Alexandria Police say the incident happened in the parking lot of Gold’s Gym in Alexandria Saturday afternoon. The door of Geldart’s vehicle hit another car.  Geldart and the owner of the vehicle got into a dispute that escalated.  Geldart is accused of grabbing the man by the throat.  In a statement released today, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser said any accusations are taken seriously and the matter is under review.

Christopher Geldart, DC Deputy Mayor, Public Safety and Justice

 

Educating Our Community About Alzheimer’s

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is hosting a free conference October 19th.

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is hosting an important conference coming up to educate the public about the illness.  The free conference will feature local experts in medical, dementia care, and elder law.  My guest is Chris Schneider – Alzheimer’s Foundation of America

Free Alzheimer’s educational conference for DMV residents October 19that the Whittemore House.  It will feature leading local experts in medical, dementia care, and elder law.  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:

 

DC Black Homeownership

The mayor joins us to talk about it.

20-Thousand more Black homeowners by 2030. That’s the goal announced by DC Mayor Muriel Bowser yesterday.  The announcement coming after the Black Home-ownership Strike Force released its final report of ten recommendations.
How will it work?  The mayor joins us to talk about it.

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser

Drew Hubbard, Director, DC Department of Housing and Community Development

AL Congressional Map Goes Before SCOTUS

It comes from Alabama after a lower court agreed with Black voters that its congressional map wasn’t legal.

Justices on the U.S. Supreme Court are taking up a potentially big voting rights case.  It comes from Alabama after a lower court agreed with Black voters that its congressional map wasn’t legal. Those judges found the influence of Black voters was lessened, but the nation’s highest court allowed the state to use the map for the upcoming midterm election. Alabama’s Solicitor General said state lawmakers acted “in a lawful race neutral manner” when they tackled redistricting. A lawyer for the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund shot back, saying the map wasn’t race neutral.

Appeal Date Set For Griner Hearing

The 31-year-old will appear in court on October 25th.

(Russia) — Court officials say an appeal date has been set for Brittney Griner’s drug possession hearing in Russia. The 31-year-old will appear in court on October 25th after authorities say the W-N-B-A star was found in possession of hash oil in her luggage at a Moscow airport. She was sentenced to nine years in a Russian prison back in August. The Biden administration is still trying to negotiate with Kremlin officials for her release.

Camp LeJeune Settlement

The Law Offices of Addison Darden are filing claims on behalf of victims who were exposed to toxic chemicals found in the drinking water.

You’ve heard the announcements about a settlement for military personnel and their families who were exposed to toxic chemicals found in drinking water at Camp LeJeune.  This morning I have the details about how to file claims if you or a loved one were harmed.  My guest is Mark Darden – Partner in the Law Firm of Addison Darden

Anyone who lived, worked, or were stationed at Camp LeJeune from 1953 to 1987 and developed cancer or serious health issues is urged to call 850-436-6297 .  The law officers of Addison Darden are filing claims on behalf of victims for major compensation.

 

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. 

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Helping Those At Risk of Homelessness

The United Way NCA’s Annual Project Connect runs through October 8th

This morning important information about a big event scheduled for next week in Prince George’s County to provide wrap around services to those at risk of or experiencing homelessness.  It’s the United Way National Capital Area Annual Project Community Connect.  My guest is Rosie Allen-HerringPresident and CEO of United Way National Capital Area

United Way NCA’s Annual Project Community Connect is October 3rdto 8thand provides essential services to those at risk of or are experiencing homelessness as well as the region’s ALICE population.   WHUR will be broadcasting live the Daily Drum next Monday October 3rdat Prince George’s Community College from Project Community Connect. 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:

United Way NCA Project Community Connect

This event has been a one-stop shop for employment, medical, rental assistance, support for returning citizens and military veterans.

The United Way, National Capital Area kicked off the 8th annual Project Community Connect at Prince George’s Community College.  The event is focusing on providing critical services to those who are at risk of… or experiencing homelessness.  This event has been a one-stop shop for employment, medical, rental assistance, support for returning citizens and military veterans.

Resources:

Project Community Connect

Part 1

Part 2

Rosie Allen-Herring, President/CEO, United Way NCA

Atty. Areva Martin Discusses Her New Book “Awakening”

“Awakening: Ladies, Leadership and The Lies We’ve Been Told”

A new book by attorney, political commentator and author Areva Martin has a word for women. The word is “Awakening”.  A self-help book and feminist manifesto all in one.  She describes it as a call for action and gender equity in a post COVID world. We sit down with Areva Martin to talk about “Awakening: Ladies, Leadership and The Lies We’ve Been Told”.

 

DC To Offer More Households Discounted Utility Bills

The savings amount to almost 500-dollars a year for electric bills, 300 for those who don’t have electric heat. 

(Washington, DC)  —  More families in DC are getting help with their utility bills.  Starting tomorrow, the income cap for discount programs will increase.  That means a household of four making less than 113-thousand dollars can apply.  The savings amount to almost 500-dollars a year for electric bills, 300 for those who don’t have electric heat.  Customers will also save up to 276-dollars during the winter on gas bills, and more than 900 a year for water and sewer.

 

DC Area Bracing For Heavy Rain From Hurricane Ian

The heaviest rain is expected to drench the DMV overnight, with some places bracing for five inches. 

(Washington, DC)  —  Start preparing now for remnants of Hurricane Ian.  That’s what forecasters are telling people in the DC area as rain could arrive by this evening and last through Tuesday.  The storm already battered Florida and is now taking aim on South Carolina.  The heaviest rain is expected to drench the DMV overnight, with some places bracing for five inches.  The biggest threats are flooding and high winds, especially for those on the coast.

A Charleston police officer moves a barricade to block a flooded street as the effects from Hurricane Ian are felt, Friday, Sept. 30, 2022, in Charleston, S.C.

Tanya Nolan With “My Best!”

Singer, Songwriter, Producer, Entrepreneur, Tanya Nolan won our hearts with “Good Woman!” She’s talks to us about her musical journey up to her latest single, “My Best!” Press play to join the conversation. Feel free to comment on YouTube and spread the word.

https://youtu.be/MDOwsgxRSVo

“Birthing Justice”: The Black Maternal Health Crisis

We talk about the documentary and the issue.

The new documentary “Birthing Justice” will be screened this week at the Congressional Black Caucus annual legislative conference. It explore the difficult and delicate topic of Black maternal health.  We talk about the documentary and the issue.

Monique N. Matthews, Documentary Filmmaker
Dr. Kanika Harris, Director, Maternal and Child Health, The Black Women’s Health Imperative

 

New Area Code Coming For Maryland

It will cover the same areas that currently use the 240 and 301 area codes.

(Bethesda, MD)  —  A new area code is coming to Maryland next year.  The Public Service Commission made 227 official yesterday.  It will cover the same areas that currently use the 240 and 301 area codes which are Allegany, Charles, Garrett, Montgomery, Prince George’s, St. Mary’s, Washington, Frederick, Howard, Carroll and Anne Arundel counties.  PSC confirms those customers can keep their area codes and phone numbers.

Remnants Of Ian To Impact MD Late Friday Night

Ian is currently entering the Atlantic and is expected to make a northwest turn toward the Carolinas tomorrow.

(Baltimore, MD)  —  The remnants of Hurricane Ian are likely to affect Marylanders this weekend.  Forecasters say rain will start falling late Friday night into Saturday morning.  On-and-off showers will continue through Sunday evening and possibly Monday.  Ian is currently entering the Atlantic and is expected to make a northwest turn toward the Carolinas tomorrow.

The Circus Is In Town

The Flip Circus is in town through October 10th at the Westfield Montgomery Mall in Bethesda

This morning important information about a big event scheduled for next week in Prince George’s County to provide wrap around services to those at risk of or experiencing homelessness.  It’s the United Way National Capital Area Annual Project Community Connect.  My guest is Rosie Allen-HerringPresident and CEO of United Way National Capital Area

United Way NCA’s Annual Project Community Connect is October 3rdto 8thand provides essential services to those at risk of or are experiencing homelessness as well as the region’s ALICE population.   WHUR will be broadcasting live the Daily Drum next Monday October 3rdat Prince George’s Community College from Project Community Connect. 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:

Walking a Dog While Black

A lawsuit is being filed in this case.

We’ve of heard of driving while black.  But what about walking a dog while black? That’s what a DC man says happened this summer when he was walking a dog, had a confrontation with a police officer and ended up in jail.

Jonathan McKinney, Business owner (not pictured)

Donald Temple, Esq., Civil Rights Attorney
Akosua Ali, President, DC Branch, NAACP

 

Wills and Estate Planning

Don’t leave family or loved ones behind without final instructions.

It’s not easy to talk about.  As a matter of fact, for many families, talking about end-of-life business doesn’t happen at all.  When that doesn’t happen and a loved one passes… family members are left scrambling to figure out what to do about final wishes, funeral services, valuable personal property, even real estate.  We answer your questions about wills and estate planning.

Resources:

Shakisha A. Morgan, Esq., The Morgan Firm

First Baptist Church of Glenarden International Virtual Exit Plan Symposium Saturday, October 15th, 2022, 9 AM – 1 PM                This is a free event. Click here to register

Rhonda Green, Director, First Baptist Church of Glenarden Funeral Services
Shakisha A. Morgan, Esq., Principal Attorney,             The Morgan Firm

 

 

 

 

Student Loan Cancellation Lawsuit

The group says the decision to cancel the debt is illegal because it wasn’t approved by Congress.

(Indianapolis, IN)  —  One legal group is suing the Department of Education over the Biden administration’s student loan cancellation policy.  The Pacific Legal Foundation filed the suit in the U.S. District Court in southern Indiana.  The group says the decision to cancel the debt is illegal because it wasn’t approved by Congress.  An attorney for the group claimed in a statement it’s not legal to create such an expensive program “by press release” without following what he called the basic “procedure for new regulations.”

Jan 6 Committee Postpones Hearing Because of Ian

In a tweet, the panel confirmed it’s being moved as Hurricane Ian bears down on Florida.

(Washington, DC) — The committee investigating last year’s Capitol attack is postponing its hearing that’s set for tomorrow. In a tweet, the panel confirmed it’s being moved as Hurricane Ian bears down on Florida. A new date will be announced soon. The tweet said the committee is “praying for the safety of all those in the storm’s path.”

September is Nat’l. Sickle Cell Awareness Month

We’re going talking about the latest in treatment. 

September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month.  During tonight’s Medical Monday conversation we’re going to talk about the latest in treatment.  There’s also some difficult news from the CDC about children with Sickle Cell Anemia.

Resources:

Sickle Cell Disease Center, Howard University Hospital

Sickle Cell Blood Drive Information

Dr. James Taylor, Director, The Howard University Center for Sickle Cell Disease

Hurricane Ian Continues U.S. Approach

The National Hurricane Center says Hurricane Ian will pass west of the Florida Keys late tomorrow.

(Miami, FL) — Tampa, Florida, could get a direct hit from a hurricane — something the area hasn’t seen for 100 years. The National Hurricane Center says Hurricane Ian will pass west of the Florida Keys late tomorrow. It’ll probably then head up the state’s west coast on Wednesday into Thursday. Forecasters say Ian is gaining steam and they warn a storm surge in Tampa Bay is particularly dangerous because the water has nowhere to go. Mandatory evacuations in the area are underway as well.

Residents of Orange County fill sand bags at Baldwin Park to protect their homes in preparation of Hurricane Ian, Monday, Sept. 26, 2022, in Orlando, Fla. Ian was growing stronger as it approached the western tip of Cuba on a track to hit the west coast of Florida as a major hurricane as early as Wednesday.

Commanders Choosing Between Hog Or Dog Mascot

The official reveal is set for January 1st.

(Washington, DC)  —  Will it be a hog or a dog?  That’s what the Washington Commanders are deciding.  The football team revealed its two new mascot options in a commercial during yesterday’s game against Philadelphia.  Fans were originally going to have four options to vote on but historical figure and superhero were dropped.  Those wanting to weigh in can go to the team’s website.  The official reveal is set for January 1st.

 

Breast Cancer Awareness Celebration

Miriam Turns Bethesda Blues and Jazz “Pink” benefit fundraising concert is Saturday October 1st.

Shining the spotlight on breast cancer and helping women and their families fighting the good fight.  This morning I have information about how you can help support a great organization that provides critical services to women and their families facing breast cancer.  My guest is Miriam Wright – Executive Director of the Edith P Wright Breast Cancer Foundation

Miriam Turn Bethesda Blues Pink Saturday, October 1stto kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  The event features a musical concert and awards ceremony.  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. 

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5k Walk, Rock the Park, and March for the Arts

Details on free events and activities happening this week around the DMV are inside of this week’s WHUR Community’s Choice.

March for the Arts

Get ready for an enchanted and magical day. Join Duke Ellington School of the Arts for its March for the Arts . Come out and experience live performances, good food, and more. www.marchfordesa.flipcause.com

Rock the Park

Enjoy a weekend of free music. Downtown DC Business Improvement District presents Rock the Park DC Weekender Festival October 8th and 9th at Franklin Park. Hear local and internationally known performers and DJs. www.downtowndc.org

8th Annual ASA 5k

Lace up your shoes and walk to end cancer. Come out October 8th for the 8TH Annual ASA Women USA 5k Walk at the Glenn Dale Community Center. www.globalgiving.org

Alpha KEL Academy

The Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity are accepting applications for their program for young males. The Alpha KEL Academy is open for middle and high school youth. www.aphiakel.org

4th Annual District Hunt

Get ready for a real challenge. Game Genius is hosting its 4th Annual District Hunt, an outdoor adventure challenge October 1st thru 10th. The fun is open to everyone. www.gamegenius.org

DC DISB Loan Forgiveness

The DC Department of Insurance Securities and Banking is offering support with Public Service Loan Forgiveness. You must apply by October 31stwww.disb.dc.gov

Flip Circus

Flip Circus offers tickets to non profits. The fun is at the Westfield Montgomery Mall in Bethesda.  www.flipcircus.com.

WHUR Community’s Choice

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

THE JOURNEY: “Dr. Anthony Wilbon – The Future of Howard’s School of Business”

President Frederick has an insightful conversation with Dr. Anthony Wilbon, Dean of the Howard University School of Business.

ABOUT

As a graduate of Howard University’s MBA program, he ultimately returned to Alma Mater in 2011, serving in positions of increasing responsibility within the  School of Business. He began as a professor before becoming Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Administration and ultimately being appointed Dean of the School of Business in May 2020. On this episode of “The Journey,” President Frederick has an insightful conversation with Dr. Anthony Wilbon, Dean of the Howard University School of Business.

Air Date: March 21, 2021

Should You Date On The Job?

Is it a wise or appropriate thing to do?

The Boston Celtics have suspended head coach Ime Udoka for the entire upcoming season after team officials found he had an improper consensual relationship with a woman on the Celtics’ staff.  It is a violation of Celtics’ workplace guidelines. Udoka has apologized and accepted the team’s action.  Dating on the job.  Would you do it?  Is it a wise or appropriate thing to do?

Tonya Sloans, Ethics Attorney, Career Strategist

 

Shawn Talley, Human Resources Expert

 

 

DC Monkeypox Clinics Switch To Walk-Up Today

The District is nearing 500 confirmed cases since late June.

(Washington, DC)  —  The nation’s capital is making it easier to protect against monkeypox.  Starting today, anyone eligible for the vaccine can simply show up at the three DC clinics without having to pre-register.  The locations are in Ward Two on I Street Northwest, Ward Four on Georgia Avenue Northwest, and in Ward Eight on Martin Luther King Junior Avenue Southeast.  Right now, the District is nearing 500 confirmed cases since late June.

Shelter In Place Order After Shots Fired In N. Virginia

Police are still looking for a suspect.

(Alexandria, VA)  —  Police in Fairfax County, Virginia are telling people to continue sheltering in place in an area near Alexandria. A car was found shot-up with gunfire at 11:15 this morning.  Route 7 in Bailey’s Crossroads has been shutdown since the shooting was reported.  No injuries are reported.  Police are still looking for a suspect.

 

Could Comedian Rodney “Red” Grant Be Our Next DC Mayor?

No, he’s not joking. In this conversation with comedian, turned politician, Red Grant, you’ll learn just how serious he is about becoming the next Mayor of DC. Press play to join this great conversation.

https://youtu.be/FXMVO6YzScY

Michelle Obama To Promote New Book With Tour

 The publication is titled The Light We Carry: Overcoming In Uncertain Times. 

(Chicago, IL)  —  Former First Lady Michelle Obama is planning a six-city tour to promote her new book. She says it’s a collection of perspectives and practices she used to keep her afloat among uncertainty when her and Barack were in the White House. The publication is titled The Light We Carry: Overcoming In Uncertain Times.  It’s set to be released on November 15th.  The tour is expected to begin in mid-November in Washington, DC, and end a month later in L.A.  Obama will also visit her hometown of Chicago, along with Philadelphia, Atlanta, and San Francisco.

Student Loan Forgiveness

The deadline to apply for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program is October 31st.

Some important information this morning that could save big money for student loan borrowers. Now thru October 31t student loan borrowers who work in public service could get their entire student loan debt forgiven.  I have all the details you need to know to see if you qualify.  My guest is Karima Woods – Commissioner for the DC Department of Insurance Security and Banking

The DC Department of Insurance Securities and Banking is offering support with Public Service Loan Forgiveness. You must apply by October 31st.  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. 

 

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“The Intruders”, A Play About Gentrification

The good, the bad and the discussion about gentrification.

Depending on who you are, where you live and long you’ve been living there, the term “gentrification” can mean very different things.  Some good, some bad.  It’s a conversation and sometimes an argument that has been growing in DC for years.  It’s also the focus of a new play titled “The Intruders” on stage this week at Silver Spring’s Black Box Theater.  Tonight we discuss the play and the issue.

Resources:

Play and Ticket Information

(L) Director, Vera Katz, (R) Playwright, Hope Lynn-Price Lindsey

NY AG Files Civil Lawsuit Against Trump

In a statement, Trump’s lawyers say the lawsuit is merely a way for James to advance her political agenda.

(New York, NY) — The New York Attorney General is filing a civil lawsuit against former President Trump for allegedly inflating his net worth. Letitia James says this is the result of a three-year investigation, alleging Trump and his family falsified business records, stretched asset valuations, and committed insurance fraud. The lawsuit seeks a 250-million-dollar judgment that would also ban any member of the Trump family from leading a business in New York State. During a deposition last month, the former President pleaded the Fifth Amendment. In a statement, Trump’s lawyers say the lawsuit is merely a way for James to advance her political agenda.

New York Attorney General Letitia James speaks during a press conference, Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2022, in New York.

Celebrating All Things Art

Art All Night kicks off this Friday, September 23rd

Get ready for a weekend filled with all things Art celebrated in every Ward of DC.  It’s called Art All Night and I have the complete rundown of all the happenings.  My guest is Kristi Whitfield – Director of DC’s Small and Local Business Development Agency

 Art All Night is Friday, September 23rdand Saturday, September 24thin 20 different Main Street corridors with both indoor and outdoor public and private spaces.  The events will be from 5pm to 2am.  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. 

 

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Black Women’s Equal Pay Day

New statistics on the pay gap. We go behind the numbers.

September 21st is Black Women’s Equal Pay Day. Every year, the day marks just how long it would take a black woman to earn what men earn in one year. Once again, the news isn’t encouraging. Tonight, we’ll hear new statistics on the pay gap and we’ll go behind the numbers.

Resources:

One Fair Wage

Saru Jayaraman, President, One Fair Wage

Dr. Avis Jones-DeWeever, Political Analyst, Founder, The Exceptional Black Woman Network

January 6th Committee Sets New Hearing Next Week

The committee is thought to be pushing to get a final report out before November’s midterm elections.

(Washington, DC) — The January 6th House committee is setting a new public hearing next Wednesday. Chatting with reporters, committee Chairman Bennie Thompson suggested it could be the last public hearing unless some new information emerges in the coming weeks. He didn’t announce any new witnesses for next week’s hearing. The committee is thought to be pushing to get a final report out before November’s midterm elections. That timetable is flexible.

 

Empowering Women and Girls Through Education and Training

The SOFEI Group is hosting their C1B1 Summit, September 24.

My guest this morning is helping to bridge the business and career excellence gap among women and girls of color.  She’s hosting a special submit this morning to empower these women and girls to emerge as boss ladies.  My guest is Deborah Avens – Chief Empowerment Officer for the SOFEI Group

SOFEI Group is a non-profit organization helping to empower women to emerge from economic instability thru education, training and development.  They are hosting their “C1B1” Summit September 24thfrom 8:30am to 1:30pm at Harborside Hotel in Oxon Hill, MD.  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. 

 

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Kevin Ross Has A Big Surprise For Us

Always a fun conversation with Kevin Ross! The DMV mega-talent, singer, songwriter, producer has new music out… Sweet Release! Of course we’re playing it for you on WHUR…But, now there’s more. Could we see Mr. Ross up on the big or small screen soon? Looks like it’s a big secret… However, press play to find out as much as I could squeeze out of him. Hint: He’s got his own trailor! 😉

https://youtu.be/x5I8ICIZ4s0

The Economic Plight of the Black Farmer

Where is the debt relief for black farmers who are really struggling to stay afloat?

If you are asked to picture what a modern commercial farmer looks like… what do you see?  Perhaps you may imagine a white man, his face reddened and skin lined by years of planting, tilling, harvesting crops to make a living. That would not be inaccurate.  But there are also modern commercial Black farmers in America… doing the same kind of work.  They are a smaller, but significant part of this country’s agricultural industry. But there are issues black farmers are fighting for today. Issues that have existed for decades. We’re talking about debt relief for black farmers who are really struggling to stay afloat.

Resources:

National Black Farmers Association

John Boyd, Jr., Founder/President, National Black Farmers Association

 

 

Helping To Make College A Reality

College Bound is helping High School Students enter and graduate from College

Celebrating equity, excellence, and education. College Bound is marking 30 years of helping make college completion a reality for public school students.  My guest is Kenneth Ward – Executive Director of College Bound  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. 

 

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Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Do you qualify for the PSLF?

It’s called Public Service Loan Forgiveness or PSLF. It’s a way for people with student loans that are waying them down to get those loans paid off.  There are conditions underwhich you have to qualify.  But a lot of people may fit the bill.

Resources:

Public Student Service Loan Info

DC Student Loan Ombudsman

Ricardo Jefferson, Student Loan Ombudsman, DC Department of Insurance Securities and Banking

 

Amtrak Restoring Canceled Trains After Strike Averted

Many of Amtrak trains run on tracks owned companies that would have been impacted by a strike.

(Washington, DC) — Amtrak says it’s working quickly to restore long distance train trips that had been canceled. This comes after a tentative agreement was reached between rail unions and freight railways. Amtrak announced it was canceling all long distance routes in fear of a strike that would shut freight rail lines down. The company was not involved in the contract negotiations, but many of its trains run on tracks owned companies that would have been impacted by a strike.

Griner, Whelan Families To Meet Biden Tomorrow

Despite plans for the White House meetings, there is no sign that a breakthrough is imminent.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden plans to meet at the White House on Friday with family members of WNBA star Brittney Griner and Michigan corporate security executive Paul Whelan, both of whom remain jailed in Russia, the White House announced Friday.

“He wanted to let them know that they remain front of mind and that his team is working on this every day on making sure that Brittney and Paul return home safely,” White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said at Thursday’s press briefing at the White House.

The separate meetings are to be the first in-person encounter between Biden and the families and are taking place amid sustained but so far unsuccessful efforts by the administration to secure the Americans’ release. The administration said in July that it had made a “substantial proposal” to get them home, but despite plans for the White House meetings, there is no sign that a breakthrough is imminent.

“Girls’ Night Out”, Party For a Purpose

Girls Night Out by Shawn Nancy is this Saturday, September 17th at Katzen Arts Center

Ladies get ready for an evening of shopping, networking, and fun with a mission of helping others in mind.  Girls Night Out by Shawn Yancy is just days away and I have the details you need to know to be a part of this great event.  My guest is Shawn Yancy – Founder and CEO of Girls’ Night Out

 Girls’ Night Out by Shawn Yancy is Saturday, September 17thfrom 5pm to 9pm at Katzen Arts Center in NW DC.  For ore 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. 

 

 

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Reporters’ Roundtable

The Prince George’s County youth curfew, Quinta Brunson, Jimmy Kimmel and The Emmy Awards, Queen Elizabeth II.

We’re at the Reporters’ Roundtable with the top stories of the week.  On deck tonight, gun education in the Montgomery County Schools.
The Prince George’s County youth curfew, Quinta Brunson, Jimmy Kimmel and the Emmy awards, the so-called “Shopping Cart Killer”, Anthony Robinson.  Singer Jesse Powell and comedian David Arnold pass away.  The passing of Queen Elizabeth II, what do black people think about it?

Sam P.K. Collins, Staff Writer, The Washington Informer

Keith Alexander, Reporter, The Washington Post