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Bethune Statue To Be Unveiled At U.S. Capitol

She’ll be the first African-American honored in the National Statuary Hall.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Washington, DC) — A tribute to a Florida woman will be unveiled in Washington, DC this week. The statue of Bethune-Cookman University founder Mary McLeod Bethune will be revealed on Wednesday at the US Capitol. She’ll be the first African-American honored in the National Statuary Hall. Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry will be there for the historic occasion. He tells the News-Journal this is the singular achievement in the history of our community, and the crowning glory for a woman worthy of sainthood.

 

Fun For The Kids at The Harbor

The National Harbor is hosting Kids Day on the Plaza every Thursday through August 25th.

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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It’s summer time and I have some help for keeping the little ones occupied with some summer fun. The National Harbor hosts Kids Day on the plaza every Thursday at 10:30am.  My guest is Deborah Topcik – Director of Marketing at the National Harbor

Kids Day on the Plaza Every Thursday thru August 25that National Harbor.  A summer of fun for kids with a host of activities. 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:

A Conversation with Ashwani Jain

We continue our conversations with candidates for local and state elections.

Posted by Andrea Muñoz
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It is a crowded field in the race for the Democratic nomination for governor of Maryland. With eight people vying for the First State’s top job it can be tough to get messages out and to be heard.  This election season WHUR has been the place for candidates to share with listeners their position on the important issues of the day and how they plan to lead and serve.  Tonight, we continue our conversations with the candidates.

AUDIO:

Guest:

Ashwani Jain –  Candidate for governor of Maryland

Golf For A Worthy Cause

There are two benefits Golf Tournaments taking place on July 14th and July 18th.

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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We’re taking it to the Golf Course this morning, spotlighting two benefit Golf tournaments.  The Lake Arbor Jazz Celebrity Golf Outing at Oak Creek Golf Course Thursday July 14th featuring Jonathan Butler, Gerald Albright and more.  Then there’s the 100 Black Men of America Celebrity Golf Tournament with celebrities Doug Williams, Mike Phillips, Jim Thorpe, Dikembo Mutombo and more, taking place July 18th at The County Club at Woodmore.  My guest is Walter Kirkland – Founding President of the 100 Black Men of Prince George’s County.

For info go to :

www.100blackmen.org

and www.lakearborjazz.com

 

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:

Brittney Griner Pleads Guilty To Drug Charges

Brittney Griner pleads guilty to drug smuggling in Russia.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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WNBA star Brittney Griner has plead guilty to smuggling drugs into Russia. Now she awaits a reaction from Russian officials as she sits in a Russian prison.
Russian authorities say they found cannabis oil containers in Griner’s luggage during an airport security check.
Griner has been jailed since February.  She says she accidentally packed the cannabis in her suitcase.
She faces a 10 year prison sentence. Griner is due back in court next week.  The White House insisted again today that President Biden is committed to getting all Americans home from overseas detention.

Jenifer Lewis To Receive a Hollywood Walk of Fame Star

Posted by WHUR Contributor
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Jenifer Lewis will receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She will receive the 2,726th star. Her star will be next to Katharine Hepburn who is one of Jenifer’s all time favorite actresses.

Lewis has been seen in productions like Think Like A Man, The Preacher’s Wife, Meet the Browns and most recently Black-ish, according to IMdb.

The ceremony will take place on July 15th and will be streamed on WalkofFame.com

Have you ever seen the Hollywood Walk of Fame in person? Whose star did you take a picture of?

Chris Brown Passes Elvis To Become Most-Decorated Male Singer in Hot 100 HISTORY

Posted by WHUR Contributor
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Chart Check: Chris Brown has spent most of his career being compared to Michael Jackson, but this week he’s being compared to Elvis Presley. As fans of the latter continue to see the Baz Luhrmann-directed movie about his life (starring Austin Butler), Chris quietly shattered the icon’s Hot 100 record with songs from his latest album, ‘Breezy.’ ‘Breezy,’ released June 24 (the same day as the ‘Elvis’ film), is the GRAMMY winner’s 12th top 10 hit thanks to the streaming activity of its 24 tracks.  Some of those songs made the Hot 100 this week, giving Brown an all-time high for male singers. Thanks to ‘Breezy’ tracks ‘Call Me Everyday’ (#76), ‘Psychic’ (#78), ‘Warm Embrace’ (#79), ‘Addicted’ (#92), and ‘Possessive’ (#98), Chris has 112 entries on the chart, surpassing Presley’s 109. Elvis, the first act to have 100 Hot 100 entries, had hits before the chart’s inception in 1958. Chris Brown was recently upset over the “lack of support” for his new album. Do you think this will change how Brown feels? What songs do you like off “Breezy?”

Beyoncé’s “Break My Soul” Becomes Her First Solo Top 10 Hit Since 2016

Posted by WHUR Contributor
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“Break My Soul” has entered the Billboard Hot 100 Top 10. The single is her first solo top 10 in 6 years.  Her last solo top 10 was “Formation.” “Break My Soul” made the achievement in its first week of tracking, jumping from No. 15 to No. 7. Act I: Renaissance will be released on July 29.  What do you think of Beyoncé’s song, “Break My Soul?”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjki-9Pthh0

Helping Women Improve Their Lives

Your Infinite Paths Foundation is helping women take their live to the next level

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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It’s no question that when you look good, you feel better and can move forward to being at your best.  My guest today runs a program to help women to do just that.  The organization is called Your Infinite Paths Foundation and the have an initiative to provide wigs for women seeking to look their best on a job interview.  My guest is Kathryn Young – Your Infinite Paths Foundation

Your Infinite Paths Foundation and the Felder Jones Foundation are co-hosting an event July 9thto provide human hair wigs and meals to residents of a local women’s shelter.  They are in need of donated wigs. www.yourinfinitepathsfoundation.org

 

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:

President Biden Addresses Fatal Police Shooting Of Ohio Black Man

President Biden addresses the latest shooting of African American police.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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President Biden says the Justice Department is closely monitoring developments around the fatal shooting of a black man in Akron, Ohio last week.
Eight Akron officers fired 90 rounds at Jayland Walker, with 60 striking the 25-year-old. Police allege Walker fired at them during a chase as they attempted to pull him over for a traffic violation.
The president addressed the case while in Cleveland today. Walker reportedly jumped out of his car unarmed when he was shot by police. A curfew for Akron put in place by the mayor has now been lifted. People have taken to Akron’s streets protesting the fatal police shooting of Walker.

Rihanna Joins List of Self Made Billionaires

Posted by WHUR Contributor
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Rihanna is climbing up on the Forbes list as a the youngest woman billionaire.

She is on the Forbes list of America’s self made women at #22. She is estimated to have a real-time net-worth of $1.4 billion.

The singer turned entrepreneur brought in the big bucks through her brand cosmetics Fenty Beauty. According to Forbes, it earned her $550 million in 2020. She also has a lingerie line SavageXFenty.

Oprah is a #10 on this self-made billionaire with a net worth of $2.6B.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4fxs5JLBvc

Posted by WHUR Contributor Posted on 1449 articles

Ray J Gets a Tat of Brandy

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Ray J has a love for his sister Brandy. So much love, that he recently got a tattoo of her face.  Ray revealed the ink today on his Instagram page, but fans didn’t praise the gesture. In fact, they were left scratching their heads.  You see, the tattoo showed Brandy with red eyes and a face tattoo that read, “Best Friends 4 Ever. From Ray with Love.”  Ray did explain the new tat. According to a post, he’s getting his entire leg inked with music, family, bible verses, and more. It’s going to be his, “Holy Leg.”  What is the wildest tattoo you’ve ever seen? Would you get a tattoo of your brother or sister?

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by The Shade Room (@theshaderoom)

Posted by HBCU Editors Posted on 14 articles

Michael Jackson Posthumous Songs Removed From Streaming Services, Fans Think He Didn’t Sing On Them

Posted by WHUR Contributor
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Three songs from Michael Jackson‘s posthumous 2010 album, Michael, have been removed from streaming platforms.  “Keep Your Head Up,” “Monster,” and “Breaking News” actually contain Jackson’s vocals, but a spokesperson for the late singer’s official website said the removal “had nothing to do with their authenticity.” The vocals were in question by Jackson’s family, including the King of Pop’s own mother, sister La Toya, nephew Taryll, and children Prince and Paris. Sony Music Group said at Michael’s release that it had “complete confidence in our extensive research and the accounts of those who were in the studio with Michael” Have you heard the songs? Do you think the vocal are Michael Jackson’s?

Reading is Fundamental

Do The Write Thing DC is making a difference in the lives of our children

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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Here’s a chance for you to be a part of an effort to make a difference in the life of a child.  Do the Write Thing is in need of authors and readers for 2ndgraders at King Elementary School in SE.

My guest is LoLo Smith– Co-Founder of Do the Write Thing and Creator of the Living Storybook Project

Do The Write Thing of DC is in need of reader and authors for its Living Storybook Project program. 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:

The Brittney Griner Case

The legal and political challenges facing Griner

Posted by Harold Fisher
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White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said today President Biden has read an emotional letter from WNBA star Brittney Griner, who remains behind bars in Russia.

In her letter to the president, Griner said she’s “terrified” she may be held in Russian custody “forever.”
Jean-Pierre also noted that Griner’s wife has spoken with secretary of state Antony Blinken and national security adviser Jake Sullivan.
Griner has been detained in Russia since February after being arrested at an airport in Moscow for having marijuana vaping cartridges.

We look at the legal and political challenges facing Griner and why she has not been released.

Exavier Pope, Entertainment/Sports Attorney, Host, The Suitup News podcast

Erica Savage Wilson, Political Commentator, Host, The Re-framed Brain podcast

MD Gov Suspends Enforcement Of Gun Clause

Hogan told state police to stop enforcing the measure, saying “it would be unconstitutional” to do so.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Baltimore, MD) — The battle over the nation’s gun laws goes on following a recent Supreme Court decision. In Maryland, Governor Larry Hogan is suspending a state law that requires gun owners to prove they have “Good & Substantial Reason” to carry a concealed weapon. The Republican issued the order following a recent Supreme Court ruling that strikes down a similar law in New York. Hogan told state police to stop enforcing the measure, saying “it would be unconstitutional” to do so.

White House: Biden Read Griner Letter

Griner said she’s “terrified” she may be held in Russian custody “forever.”

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Washington, DC) — The White House press secretary says President Biden has read an emotional letter from WNBA star Brittney Griner, who remains behind bars in Russia. Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters the President is committed to bringing home all Americans who are imprisoned overseas. In her letter to the President, Griner said she’s “terrified” she may be held in Russian custody “forever.” Jean-Pierre also noted that Griner’s wife has spoken with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan.

DC Offers More Swimming Lessons for Residents

DC is looking to help more city residents learn how to swim with more classes being offering across the District.

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Washington, D.C. (Tuesday, July 5, 2022) – Mayor Muriel Bowser and the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) today announced that the agency has added 64 additional Learn-to-Swim classes to be offered this summer at outdoor pools.   The classes are in addition to the 112 already scheduled at indoor pools. The additional classes will begin this week and registration for many classes is still open. Classes are offered for residents of all ages, from parent/toddler to seniors. “We want young people engaged in safe activities all summer, and our outdoor pools are a tremendous resource for the community,”said Mayor Bowser.  “If you know someone who could benefit from swimming lessons, help us spread the word that we have more swimming classes available. We’re proud that between our swim classes at DCPS and our swim classes at DPR, DC is a city where people of all ages can use and enjoy our indoor and outdoor public pools.”

The new Learn-to-Swim classes begin this week, run 30-45 minutes per session, and will take place throughout July and August. Classes are being offered at the following outdoor pools:  

  • Harry Thomas, Sr. Pool, 1743 Lincoln Road, NE
  • Woody Ward Pool, 5100 Southern Avenue, SE
  • Fort Stanton Pool, 1800 Erie Street, SE

To register for Learn-to-Swim classes and for more details, visit DPRprograms.com  

Chris Brown on Lack of Support for His New Album

Posted by WHUR Contributor
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Chris Brown took to social media to promote the upcoming deluxe release of his new album on July 8th. He also got a few things off his chest. He wrote, not that it matters but it seems like y’all only invest in the negative stories about me. He said when there is a negative story about him everyone is talking about it. He drops a new album-not the same energy. Does Chris Brown have a point?

The Wendy Williams Show Wiped Clean From YouTube

Posted by WHUR Contributor
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Fans of Wendy Williams were shocked when they went to YouTube and couldn’t find episodes of her show. It appears the entire YouTube channel for The Wendy Williams Show has been deleted. The show’s Instagram page has also been deleted. Fans were not happy and took to social media to complain with one person writing, I’m calling on the United States Congress to mount a full-scale inquiry into the deletion of the Wendy Williams Show YouTube page.

 

 

Fantasia Barrino Reveals the Birthday Surprise She Got While on Set of ‘The Color Purple’

Posted by WHUR Contributor
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When you have a voice like Fantasia, there are not too many people who can actually serenade you and bring you to tears. But if anyone was up for the challenge it was gospel artist Le’Andria Johnson. Fantasia was working on the set of ‘The Color Purple’ on her birthday on June 30th. In a video posted on social media you see Le’Andria come from behind the curtain and serenade Fantasia singing Happy Birthday. Fantasia is emotionally brought to tears. In an Instagram post Fantasia wrote, this gave me the push I needed to finish the journey as Celie once again. If you could be serenaded by one person who would it be?

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Fantasia Taylor (@tasiasword)

Brittney Griner Writes Letter To President Joe Biden

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WNBA star Brittney Griner is begging President Joe Biden to help free her from Russia. In a handwritten letter, Griner said, “As I sit here in a Russian prison, alone with my thoughts and without the protection of my wife, family, friends, Olympic jersey, or any accomplishments, I’m terrified I might be here forever. I realize you are dealing with so much, but please don’t forget about me and the other American Detainees.” She went on to say, “Please do all you can to bring us home. I still have so much good to do with my freedom that you can help restore. I miss my wife! I miss my family! I miss my teammates! It kills me to know they are suffering so much right now. I am grateful for whatever you can do at this moment to get me home.” Griner was taken into custody earlier this year for allegedly having drugs as she entered the country. When was the last time you wrote an actual letter?

 

Ways To Sleep Better

Posted by WHUR Contributor
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Americans need more sleep.  The American Sleep Association says adults need seven to nine hours of sleep at night, but roughly a third get less than seven hours.  There are ways to combat insomnia though, as referenced in a new article.  Limiting screen time before bed, keeping the TV off in your bedroom and not reading “thrillers” before sleep will all help.  Eating and exercising before bed can also cause problems.  See the full list at huffpost.com.

Do you have a bedtime ritual?

The College Tour

The College Tour is a TV Series highlighting college campuses around the country

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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The power of a good education and the many advantages it can afford the young and not so young.  My guest this morning is a college senior at UMBC and she’s sharing her experience of higher education on a TV Series called The College Tour.  My guest is Sarah Turner – Senior Psychology Major at UMBC

The College Tour is a TV series streaming on Amazon Prime that provides college campuses around the world, making it accessible for students and their families to explore campuses near and far without having to travel. 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:

Mass Shooting at July 4th Parade Near Chicago

Massive search underway for white gunman who shot dozens of people at July 4th parade near Chicago leaving 6 dead and dozens injured.

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Highland Park, Illinois (Monday, July 4, 2022) – In what was supposed to be a day of celebration and fun, turned deadly following a mass shooting at an Independence Day parade Monday just outside of Chicago, Illinois.  At least 6 are reported dead and dozens others injured.  Police are searching for a white gunman said to be between 18 and 20. Police believe the gunman carried out his deadly attack on top of a building and they have found a firearm on the rooftop of a business in Highland Park.

All festivities in the area have been canceled for the day and residents are being told to shelter in place.  31 people have been transported to two hospitals.  Authorities say most of the victims have gunshot wounds. 

Highland Park is about 25 miles of Chicago. The shooting has triggered a national investigation with the FBI joining in.  For now, no word of a motive for the bloodshed.  According to data from the Gun Violence Archive, this marks the 308th mass shooting in the US for 2022.

Many in the parade initially thought the gunfire was fireworks and part of the parade.  But quickly that celebratory feeling turned to one of panic with people running and seeking shelter from the bullets.

“The firearm was a high-powered rifle and the attack on parade attendees appeared to be random and intentional,” said Christopher Covelli a spokesperson for the Lake County Major Crime Task Force.

 

Grill Safety Tips Ahead for July 4

Posted by WHUR Contributor
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The Memorial Day holiday is literally right around the corner! Lots of people love to celebrate by gathering with friends and family and throwing food on the grill. WHUR has provided some grill safety tips to keep in mind — not just for Memorial Day, but through out the summer.

The National Fire Protection Agency recommends:

  • Keep children and pets at least three feet away from grill.
  • Never grill inside the home.
  • Keep your grill clean and remove build up.
  • Open your gas grill before lighting.
  • If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.

 

Candidate Conversations: Wes Moore

Doeshe have a shot at becoming Maryland’s first Black governor? 

Posted by Harold Fisher
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His campaign slogan is “no one left behind” and according to recent polling is doing well in the Democratic field.  Does Democrat Wes Moore have a shot at becoming Maryland’s first Black governor?  He joins us for our continuing series, Candidate Conversations.

Wes Moore (D) Maryland, Gubernatorial Candidate

Griner Trial Will Resume Next Thursday

Griner stands accused of having under a gram of cannabis oil in her luggage when she arrived in Russia back in February.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Moscow) — The trial of WNBA star Brittney Griner will resume next Thursday in Russia. That country’s state news agency said charges were announced against the member of the Phoenix Mercury by the prosecutor. Griner stands accused of having under a gram of cannabis oil in her luggage when she arrived in Russia back in February. She plays there during the WNBA’s offseason. A top U.S. Embassy official says she spoke with Griner while in court. Elizabeth Rood said Griner wanted everybody to know “that she is in good spirits and is keeping up the faith.”

 

Running For Mental Health

The American Psychiatric Association is hosting it’s 2nd annual 5K July 9th

Posted by Bobby Gailes
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It’s time totake a walk or run for your mental health. The American Psychiatric Association is hosting its 2ndAnnual Moore Equity In Mental Health 5k July 9that Anacostia Park.

My guest it Dr. Regina James – Deputy Medical Director and Chief Division of Diversity and Health Equity at the American Psychiatric Association

Take a walk or run for your mental health.  The American Psychiatric Association is hosting its 2ndAnnual More Equity In Mental Health 5k July 9that Anacostia Park.  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:

Candidate’s Conversation: Jon Baron

The Democrat is running for governor in Maryland and vows to bring change to state education and healthcare.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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We’re continuing our series of interviews with political candidate vying for high office.  We speak to former non-profit executive Jon Baron. The Democrat is running for governor in Maryland and vows to bring change to state education and healthcare.

Jon Baron (D) Maryland Gubernatorial Candidate

Jackson Sworn-In As New Supreme Court Justice

Her swearing-in coincided with the formal retirement of veteran Justice Stephen Breyer.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Washington, DC) — Ketanji Brown Jackson is the newest member of the U.S. Supreme Court. Jackson was sworn-in during a ceremony at the Supreme Court and is the first Black woman to ever serve on the nation’s highest court. Her swearing-in coincided with the formal retirement of veteran Justice Stephen Breyer. There will also be a formal investiture ceremony when the Court reconvenes in the fall.

 

Chief Justice John Roberts administered the constitutional oath of office while Breyer administered the judicial oath. Jackson was joined by members of her family during the brief ceremony. Jackson is 51 while Breyer is 83. He has served on the Supreme Court since 1994 after being nominated by President Bill Clinton.

DC Minimum Wage to Increase to $16.10 In July

Posted by WHUR Contributor
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Minimum wage workers in the District of Columbia will soon see a pay raise.

According to the office of wage management compliance, “Beginning July 1, 2022, the minimum wage in the District of Columbia will increase from $15.20 per hour to $16.10 per hour for all workers, regardless of the size of the employer.

The base minimum wage for tipped employees will increase from $5.05 per hour to $5.35. However, if an employee’s hourly tip earnings (averaged weekly) added to the base minimum wage do not equal the District’s full minimum wage, the employer must pay the difference.”

The wage increase comes as Americans across the country struggle to grapple with rising costs of living.

FDA Warns Baby Neck Floats Can Be Deadly

Posted by WHUR Contributor
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The FDA is warning parents not to use baby neck floats.

The floats – inflatable rings worn around the infant’s neck to let it float in water – have been linked to at least one death and one hospitalization, the agency says.

The FDA also says the supposed health benefits of the floats – such as better muscle tone and lung capacity – have not been proven and they especially warned against using the floats on children with special needs.

The FDA website recommends that parents: 

  • Do not use baby neck floats for water therapy intervention. The use of these products, especially with babies with developmental delays or special needs, can lead to death or serious injury.
  • Be aware that the use of neck floats in babies with special needs can lead to increased risk of neck strain and injury.
  • Be aware that these neck floats have not been evaluated by the FDA and we are not aware of any demonstrated benefit with the use of neck floats for water therapy interventions.
  • If a baby or individual in your care is injured by a neck float, we encourage you to report this to the FDA. Your report, along with information from other sources, can help the FDA identify and better understand the risks associated with medical devices.
Posted by WHUR Contributor Posted on 1449 articles

Griner’s Wife Says The Athlete Is Terrified

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Brittney Griner is struggling in Russia.   In a new interview, the WNBA star’s wife, Cherelle, says Griner is “terrified” as she awaits her trial.   Griner has been detained in Russia on drug charges for over four months.  Cherelle said, “She is a human. She’s there, terrified. She’s there alone. I mean, even in America, if she was going through a legal proceeding, she wouldn’t be doing it alone.”   Griner is facing up to ten years if convicted.   How would you entertain yourself if you were in prison?

 

COVID-19 Update

What you need to know about COVID-19 vaccines for children younger than five years old.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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A COVID-19 is now available for children younger than five years old.  For some parents this is a relief and they’ve hurried to get the shot for their kids.  Others still have questions.  We have answers about that and Monkeypox.

Dr. Reed Tuckson, MD, Co-Founder, Black Coalition Against COVID-19

 

R. Kelly Gets 30 Years In Sex Trafficking Case

The singer and songwriter, 55, was convicted of racketeering and sex trafficking last year.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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R&B star R. Kelly was sentenced to 30 years in prison Wednesday for using his superstardom to subject young fans — some just children — to systematic sexual abuse.

The singer and songwriter, 55, was convicted of racketeering and sex trafficking last year at a trial that gave voice to accusers who had once wondered if their stories were being ignored because they were Black women.

 

U.S. District Judge Ann Donnelly imposed the sentence after hearing from several survivors who attested to how Kelly’s exploitation reverberated across their lives.

“You made me do things that broke my spirit. I literally wished I would die because of how low you made me feel,” said one unnamed survivor, directly addressing a Kelly who kept his hands folded and his eyes downcast. “Do you remember that?”

Kelly did not address the court.

The sentence caps a slow-motion fall for Kelly, who was adored by legions of fans and sold millions of albums even after allegations about his abuse of young girls began circulating publicly in the 1990s.

Ketanji Brown Jackson To Be Sworn-In To Supreme Court Tomorrow

Justice Stephen Breyer will retire tomorrow morning.

Posted by Harold Fisher
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(Washington, DC) — Ketanji Brown Jackson will be sworn-in as a Supreme Court justice at noon Eastern time tomorrow. That’ll coincide with the formal retirement of veteran Justice Stephen Breyer. He announced his intention to retire at the conclusion of the high court’s current term months ago. Jackson is a veteran federal judge who was confirmed by the Senate for the Supreme Court in April. She’ll become the first Black woman to ever serve on the nation’s highest court.

Jackson is 51 while Breyer is 83. He has served on the Supreme Court since 1994 after being nominated by President Bill Clinton. Breyer wrote a letter to President Biden, informing him of his formal resignation. He said it has been a “great honor to participate as a judge in the effort to maintain our Constitution and the rule of law.”

Serena Williams Loses at Wimbledon

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After skipping last year’s event because of a torn hamstring, Serena Williams returned to Wimbledon on Tuesday — only to lose to Harmony Tan in a three-set match. The 24-year-old Tan managed to defeat the tennis icon 7-5, 1-6, 7-6, marking only the third time Williams has been eliminated during the first round of the event. She’s won seven Wimbledon and 23 Grand Slam titles over the course of her career. The 115th-ranked Tan, who’s making her first-ever appearance at Wimbledon, will next face 32-seeded Sara Sorribes Tormo. If you were tan, how intimidated would you feel to face one of the world’s top tennis players in your first Wimbledon appearance?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KM7IuaDSMqk

Florida Drivers Can Get A Ticket If The Music Is Too Loud

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Do you like to crank up the tunes in the car?  Better watch that volume if you’re driving through Florida. Starting July 1st, police will be able to give you a ticket if the music is too loud. The rule states that sound from the car stereo must not be “plainly audible from 25 feet away or more”.  Offenders will get a citation for up to $114. The law does not apply to other car sounds like horns or alarm systems. Do you play your music loud in the car?  Should more states adopt a law like this?

Airbnb Bans All Parties Permanently

The party’s officially over.

Posted by WHUR Contributor
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The party’s officially over for Airbnb. On Tuesday, the company announced that its ban on parties would become permanent, for all listings. The ban was originally announced in August 2020 as a safety measure during the COVID-19 pandemic.  But Airbnb says the ban has since become “bedrock community policy”. Guests who decide to throw an unauthorized bash could find their accounts suspended or banned permanently. Earlier this year, two people were killed and several more injured during a part at an Airbnb-rented property in Pittsburgh. Do you agree with this policy?  Ever been to an ‘Airbnb party’?

Nick Cannon Announces a New Foundation in Memory of His Son

The foundation, Zen’s Light, will help families with pediatric healthcare for their children as well as help with grief counseling. 

Posted by WHUR Contributor
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Nick Cannon has launched a new pediatric cancer foundation in honor of his son that recently passed away.  The foundation, Zen’s Light, will help families with pediatric healthcare for their children as well as help with grief counseling.  During a ceremony for the launch of the foundation, Nick spoke about his hopes for the foundation to help families through the process.  Nick’s son Zen passed away in December from brain cancer. Zen was five-months-old.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zo81P8XbsvY

2022 BET Awards Winners

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This year’s BET Awards took place on June 26.

Here are some of the night’s big winners:

Album of the year, ‘An Evening With Silk Sonic,’ by Silk Sonic.

Best female R&B/pop artist, Jazmine Sullivan.

Best male R&B/pop artist, The Weeknd.

Best female hip hop artist, Megan Thee Stallion.

Best male hip hop artist, Kendrick Lamar.

Best new artist, Latto.

Best actor, Will Smith, ‘King Richard’.

Best actress, Zendaya, ‘Euphoria’/ ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’.

Sportswoman of the year, Naomi Osaka.

Sportsman of the year, Stephen Curry

The Heat Is On: Record Hot Temperatures Continue Around The U.S.

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Much of the country continues to sizzle in extreme heat. On Thursday, at least eight states hit 100 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. Twelve states also broke the 100-degree mark on Wednesday with 21 records tied or broken. A Texas A&M climate professor said, “It’s easy to look at these figures and forget the immense misery they represent. People who can’t afford air conditioning and people who work outdoors have only one option, to suffer.”. In Macon, Georgia, the temperature swung from 64 to 105 degrees in just nine hours on Wednesday. Even Minneapolis hit 100 on Monday

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R. Kelly Fan Arrested For Threatening Prosecutors

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Christopher Gunn, 39, was arrested for threatening R. Kelly’s prosecutors. The Kelly superfan appeared in court Monday. Christopher Gunn told YouTube subscribers to “be familiar” with the Brooklyn US Attorney’s Office. The Chicago resident known as DeBoSki suggested they “storm” the building. “If [R. Kelly] goes down, everybody’s going down,” Gunn declared in a YouTube video dated October 4, 2021. He also allegedly said, “[If] you ain’t got the stomach for the s### we bout to do, I’m asking that you just bail out.” Christopher Gunn reportedly shared a Boyz n the Hood clip in which characters prepare to kill their enemies. Federal authorities arrested Gunn in Chicago. He could get five years if convicted. Would you consider yourself a “superfan?” Do you think DeBoSki went too far?

Beyoncé’s New Hit Is A Great Resignation Anthem

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With Big Freedia’s help, Beyoncé distills 25 months of workplace dissatisfaction, pandemic restlessness, and unionization into 4 minutes and 38 seconds of danceable protest with her new song, “Break My Soul.” Within 24 hours of the song’s release, searches for “how to resign” and “great resignation” jumped 350% and 1,550%, respectively, in the U.S. The song talks about quitting your job, finding a “new foundation” and a “new vibration,” it definitely is the theme song for the Great Resignation, as many people find working in an office to be unfulfilling and expensive.  Commuting costs are rising as the price of gas increases, in-office lunch is higher, and the work-life balance is very unbalanced.  Beyoncé’s song isn’t saying anything the Department of Labor hasn’t noticed.  According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, quits and separations have increased at a record rate over the past 20 years. Did you quit your job or contemplate quitting your job after hearing Beyoncé’s “Break My Soul?”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7joBH6K2Rk

2022 Bet Awards: Kanye West Makes A Surprise Appearance To Honor Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs

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Kanye West showed up at the 2022 BET Awards to honor Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs.

The Stronger rapper went on stage at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles wearing a black hoodie with the zipper up, black sunglasses, a black baseball cap, and a black stocking over his face.

West said Diddy is one of his ‘favorite artists,’ and while he had been trying to “stay off the grid,” Diddy he said, “is very persistent.”

Kanye said Diddy influenced several of his life choices, including his “wife choices,” which he sarcastically thanked the hip-hop mogul for. “He broke down so many doors of classism, taste, culture, swag,” said Ye.”Puff, if I never told you, I love you. You’re my brother.”

What did you think about Kanye’s appearance at the BET Awards?

DC Job Fair Today

DC has job opportunities with businesses at The Wharf and The Yards and In-Between at a job fair being held today. Plus there will be training organizations on hand.

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Washington, D.C. (Tuesday, June 28, 2022) –  The District is holding a job fair today for city residents looking for work.  There are hundreds of positions available in the hospitality industry as part of the city’s Phase II of the Wharf.  At-large DC Councilmember Elissa Silverman says employers are ready to hire. The job fair will be held from 10am to 1pm at Arena stage in SW.  It’s for DC residents only and pre-registration is required.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/from-the-wharf-to-the-yards-job-fair-june-28-2022-tickets-338384054817

Some of the employers on hand include Harris Teeter, Admiral Security Services, Colonial Parking, Cambria Hotel – Capitol Riverfront, Canopy & Hyatt House, Levy at Audi Field, Pendry Hotel, Thompson Hotel, Washington Nationals, Monumental Sports, and many more.

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Free Meals for Kids This Summer

The Capital Area Food Bank is providing free meals for kids

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Summer break can be a hungry time for kids.  This morning the Capital Area Food Bank is kicking off an effort to make sure children in the DMV have free meals during the Summer months.  My guest is Alexis Lahr – Capital Area Food Bank

 Summer break can be a hungry time for kids.  If you need help finding meals for your child this summer, 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:

Roe v. Wade and Gun Reform

What are the long-term implications for women’s reproductive health?

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Supreme decisions.  After Roe v. Wade and new gun reform. What’s ahead for the nation?

William Lightfoot, Attorney, Former DC Councilmember

Lisa Crooms, Howard University Law Professor, Co-Chair, Board of Trustee, The Center for Constitutional Rights