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Nikolas Cruz pleads guilty to 2018 Parkland school massacre

Cruz will be sentenced next year. A jury will be selected for the penalty phase in January.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Nikolas Cruz has pleaded guilty to murder in the 2018 massacre that left 17 dead at a Parkland, Florida, high school. A jury will now decide whether he will be executed for one of the nation’s deadliest school shootings. Relatives of the victims who sat in the courtroom or watched the hearing via Zoom on Wednesday shook their heads or broke down in tears as Cruz entered his pleas and later apologized for his crimes. Given the case’s notoriety, Circuit Judge Elizabeth Scherer plans to screen thousands of prospective jurors for the death penalty trial. Jury selection is scheduled to begin in January.

Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooter Nikolas Cruz sits in the courtroom before pleading guilty, Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2021, at the Broward County Courthouse in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Cruz pleaded guilty to murder in the 2018 massacre that left 17 dead at the Parkland, Fla., high school.

White House Ready To Give Kids COVID Shots

It has unveiled plans to get shots in kids’ arms ahead of final FDA and CDC recommendations.

(Washington, DC) — The White House is ready to give COVID shots to 28-million children between the ages of five and eleven-years-old. It has unveiled plans to get shots in kids’ arms ahead of final FDA and CDC recommendations. They include making the COVID vaccine available in more than 25-thousand pediatric and primary care offices, thousands of pharmacies and more than 100 children’s hospitals and health care systems. COVID Coordinator Jeff Zients says tools are also being prepared for quick distribution, including smaller needles. He says the final decision, expected in the next few weeks, will be “based on science” and the vaccine will be distributed equitably and fairly.

Coat Drive Success: DMV Showed Up Yet Again!

https://youtu.be/vX3ct1Bwtu4

The DMV showed up in a big way Saturday to help provide new coats to children in need at the “19thAnnual 96.3 WHUR Children’s Coat Drive.”

The coat drive was held from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Shops at Iverson in Temple Hills. WHUR Air Personality Coka Lani encouraged listeners to stop by to drop-off new coats, hats, and gloves for needy youth of all ages and the response was overwhelming. By the end of the broadcast, nearly 600 coats were donated and hundreds of hats and gloves.

“Our listeners never cease to amaze me with their level of generosity. Even with the pandemic and the rain, listeners were not going to let anything hold back their spirit of giving,” said WHUR General Manager Sean Plater.

All donations were distributed to the following organizations: Thrive DC, United Communities Against Poverty, Mission of Love Ministries, Community Lodgings, Recreation Wish List Committee, Woodland Spring Community, and Women’s Wings.

In addition to our generous listeners, we have to say a special thank you to our FedEx volunteers and sponsors. They came with lots of coats. Plus, FedEx volunteers helped to sort, pack, and load the coats so they could be given to the organizations,” added Plater.

The coat drive kicks-off “WHUR’s Annual Season of Giving Campaign,” which also includes “Food2Feed,” a 12-hour radiothon Tuesday, November 16th; “The Steve Harvey Turkey Giveaway” Monday, November 29th; and the “WHUR Toy Drive” Saturday, December 11th.

Celebrating 25 Years of Community Service

The Northern Virginia Urban League Guild is host a virtual celebration this Saturday, October 23rd

The Northern Virginia Urban League Guild is celebrating 25 years of empowering communities and changing lives and to mark the historic occasion the Guild will host a virtual celebration.  My guest is Philmore Williams – Program Chair for  25th Anniversary Celebration of the Northern Virginia Urban League Guild

The Northern Virginia Urban League Guild is celebrating 25 years of empowering communities and changing lives and to mark the historic occasion the Guild will host a virtual celebration Saturday, October 23, 2021 from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information go here: 

Tune in to Taking it to the Streets, weekday mornings at 6:15, 7:08 and 8:40 on the Steve Harvey Morning Show on 96.3 WHUR.

Follow me on facebook and twitter at @bobbygailes for updates and to stay connected.

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

“Say Their Names: How Black Lives Came To Matter In America”

New book looks at how the death of George Floyd and other issues changed how America views the Black Lives Matter movement.

Black Lives Matter.  It’s more than a rallying cry for protesters.It is a movement that has inspired and motivated a generation.  It has also polarized a nation still wrestling with a legacy of racial discrimination and prejudice.  We talk to the co-authors of a new book that examines this social justice conversation.

Keith Harriston, Author, Journalist
Patrice Gaines, Author, Journalist

 

Alliance of Concerned Men

The organization works to stem the tide of deadly violence in DC.

The homicide rate in the District of Columbia continues to skyrocket.  As of this week… it’s it ten percent higher than it was one year ago. As government agencies scramble to make the streets safe, communities continue to raise questions about strategies.  Yet there are boots-on-the-ground organizations that are attempting to bridge the gap between politicians and communities that want the same thing.  One of those organizations is the Alliance of Concerned Men.

https://youtu.be/VAI2O6VttRc

Haitian Gang Wants $17-Million Ransom For Kidnapped Missionaries

The missionaries are affiliated with Ohio-based Christian Aid Ministries.

(Port-au-Prince) — The gang that kidnapped 17 Christian missionaries in Haiti over the weekend is demanding 17-million dollars in ransom. The gang grabbed the 16 Americans and one Canadian after they visited an orphanage near Port-au-Prince on Saturday. The people being held include seven women, five men and five children, one of them an eight-month-old baby. The FBI and Haitian police are in contact with the kidnappers but the defense minister said negotiations could take weeks. The missionaries are affiliated with Ohio-based Christian Aid Ministries.

People protest for the release of the kidnapped missionaries near the missionaries’ headquarters in Titanyen, north of Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Assisting Those Who Need A Helping Hand

The United Way of the National Capital Area is providing resources to persons in need.

It’s all about helping the homeless and underserved communities in the DMV.  I have details this morning about a week long effort to connect those persons with the services they need.  Project Community Connect is underway.  My guest is Ian Gordon – Vice President of Community Impact and Engagement for United Way of National Capital Area

Project Community Connect is October 18th – 23rd and is designed to provide essential services to those at risk of or are experiencing homelessness.  Wrap around services will be provided.  For more information go here:

 

Tune in to Taking it to the Streets, weekday mornings at 6:15, 7:08 and 8:40 on the Steve Harvey Morning Show on 96.3 WHUR.

Follow me on facebook and twitter at @bobbygailes for updates and to stay connected.

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Rushern Baker Runs for Governor of Maryland

We talk to Baker and his runningmate, Montgomery County Councilmember Nancy Navarro.

Former Prince George’s County Executive Rushern Baker is back in the political spotlight and now running for the highest office in Maryland.  Baker wants to be governor and replace Republican Larry Hogan next year, who is term limited. What might a Baker Administration look like if he were to win? We talk to Baker and his runningmate, Montgomery County Councilmember Nancy Navarro.

Rushern Baker (D), Maryland Gubanatorial Candidate

Nancy Navarro, (D) Maryland Candidate for Lt. Governor

Kyrie Irving Played Some Pick-Up Football Over The Weekend

https://youtu.be/unkqwbJAKHs

Kyrie Irving can’t play for the Nets right now, so he decided to keep busy with a little pick-up football.
TMZ spotted Irving playing football with some friends at a local high school over the weekend.
Kyrie has refused to get vaccinated, and the team said last week that he wouldn’t play or practice with the Nets until he was.
Do you think Irving will sit out the season rather than get vaccinated? Are the Nets making the right call?

Will Smith Shows Off Fit Body Amid Post-Quarantine Fitness Journey

Will Smith shared earlier this year that he had put on a few pounds during the quarantine and that he was taking back control of his body.
Smith gave fans an update via TikTok in a new video showing how much progress he’s made.
The actor was lifting heavy weights, running, doing pull-ups, etc.
Smith captioned the video with, “And to think Sundays used to be for muffins. #bestshapeofmylife”.
Can you relate? Did you put on a few extra pounds during quarantine and are trying to get them off? Are you currently on a weight loss journey? Tell us about it!

Cuba Gooding Jr. Faces February Trial in Groping Case

Cuba Gooding, Jr is set to go on trial on February 1, 2022.
He is accused of groping three women at three different Manhattan night spots in 2018 and 2019.
Prosecutors plan to portray Cuba as a serial offender.
The defense plans to portray the case as an example of the #MeToo movement ‘run amok.’
Do you think the outcomes of R.Kelly, Harvey Weinstein and Bill Cosby fair well or poorly for Cuba Gooding, Jr’s case?

RHOA’s Falynn Guobadia Is Engaged to Jaylan Banks

https://youtu.be/NQff9nrO3Gg

Falynn Guobadia and Jaylan Banks are engaged!
The expectant mother posted a photo of her ring with the caption, I said YES!!! I have no clue how @itsjaylanbanks pulled this big surprise off but I have not stopped balling my eyes out. I love you baby.
Falynn and Jaylan announced two months ago they are expecting a child together.
Falynn has two son’s with Simon Guobadia who is now with Porsha Williams.
How soon is too soon before moving on from a break up?

Trial Beginning In Ahmaud Arbery Murder Case

Jury selection began today.

(Brunswick, GA) — The trial of three men accused of murdering Ahmaud Arbery in Georgia is about to begin. Jury selection is scheduled for today in the murder trial of Greg and Travis McMichael. They’re the father and son who prosecutors say armed themselves and pursued the unarmed Black man after spotting him jogging in their neighborhood just outside Brunswick. Also standing trial is William “Roddie” Bryan, a neighbor who took video of Travis McMichael shooting Arbery at close range with a shotgun. Attorneys said the judge summoned one-thousand potential jurors.

 

Colin Powell Dead At 84

, COVID Complications To Blame

Former Secretary of State Colin Powell is dead at the age of 84, the result of complications from COVID-19.

His family says he was fully vaccinated. Powell was a former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, under both President George Bush and President Bill Clinton. He was born in New York City on April 5th, 1937, and was raised in the South Bronx. His parents immigrated to the U.S. from Jamaica. In military life, he was stationed in Germany; Massachusetts; Kentucky; Kansas; and Colorado. He served two tours in Vietnam from 1962 to 1963 and 1968 to 1969. He was also a battalion commander in Korea from 1973 to 1974. In 1987, President Ronald Reagan named General Powell as the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs.

General Powell was highly decorated, receiving the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Army Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Soldier’s Medal, Bronze Star Medal, and the Purple Heart. He was also decorated by numerous foreign governments, and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the President’s Citizens Medal and the Congressional Gold Medal, among others. Powell also received an honorary knighthood form the Queen of England in December of 1993.

Powell retired from the U.S. Army on September 30th, 1993. He is survived by his wife, Alma, and their three children.

Nick Cannon’s Talk Show Ratings Are in…and Well…

https://youtu.be/FyeOfnVFxII

Nick Cannon’s daytime talk show premiered on September 27th.
The plan was for the Wendy Williams Show to act as a lead-in for his show. That means they were hoping viewers of Wendy’s show would stick around to watch Nick’s Show.
The only problem is Wendy has been out battling health related issues.
Nick’s debut brought in 400,000 viewers putting him at the bottom of the daytime lineup.
For context, Wendy Williams averages 600,000 viewers.
Drew Barrymore is in her second season averaging 500,000 viewers.
Have you watched Nick Cannon’s show? What do you think?

Bow Wow Brings Out Longtime Crush Angela Simmons After Calling Her ‘His Everything’

Bow Wow spent a portion of the weekend on social media saying he was done with the Millennium Tour.
As a headliner, he said he is only given 15 mins each night to perform.
People were shocked to not only see Bow Wow at the Atlanta stop but more surprised to see him bring out his longtime crush, Angela Simmons.
He serenaded her with Shortie Like Mine.
Days prior to the performance Bow Wow was in Angela’s comments heavy.
Do you want to see Angela and Bow Wow back together?

The Weeknd Upgrades 2022 Arena Tour To A Stadium Tour

The Weeknd’s 2022 arena tour has grown into a stadium tour according to a statement made by the artist.
The Weeknd posted, “Due to constraints of arenas and the demand for more shows I want to do something bigger and special for you which requires stadiums. Current tickets will be refunded automatically and all ticketholders will be given priority to buy tickets for the stadium shows when they go on sale. New dates forthcoming”.
The tour is set to visit North and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Dates are projected to be released soon.
Did you already have tickets for a show? Are you hoping to get tickets for the upgraded tour? What is your favorite song by The Weeknd?

Josh Copeland, Brandon Camphor, And One Way Share Experiences of God’s Grace

https://youtu.be/oITbrDOFb9s

Josh Copeland & Brandon Camphor & One Way and their families were all affected by the coronavirus pandemic, but they survived by God’s mercy and grace.

Peloton X Beyoncé Return With Largest Artist Series Ever

https://youtu.be/LdBL20kXOwA

Beyonce and Peloton have a new installment in the artist series.
It launches tomorrow, October 19th.
Peloton says it is the most extensive artist series to-date.
It will offer 72 hours of content, 17 classes over a three-day period.
Beyonce and Peloton will also provide fitness facilities of 10 HBCU’s with Peloton bikes this fall.
This pandemic saw the emergence of a few at-home work out facilities, which one do you have?

Supporting Persons with Disabilities

The World of Possibilities Expo is Saturday Oct.23 from 11-3pm

A huge expo gets underway this weekend designed specifically for persons with disabilities or special healthcare needs.  It’s called the World of Possibilities Disabilities Expo and it’s hosted by Caring Communities.  My guest is Mona Freedman – Executive Director and Founder of Caring Communities

World of Possibilities Expo Saturday, October 23rd from 11am to 3pm at Prince George’s County Maryland Samuel Riggs Alumni Center at the University of Maryland.  For more information go here:

 Tune in to Taking it to the Streets, weekday mornings at 6:15, 7:08 and 8:40 on the Steve Harvey Morning Show on 96.3 WHUR.

Follow me on facebook and twitter at @bobbygailes for updates and to stay connected.

 

 

Listen to this mornings segment here:

What You Need To Know About Hispanic Heritage Month

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

The contribution of Hispanic and Latino Americans is numerous.  But the issues important to their community often go unrecognized.  Tonight, as was we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we take a closer look at the issues, concerns, and history of the diverse Hispanic and Latino community in the U.S.

AUDIO:

Guests:  Manuel Mendez  – Chair, DC Afro Latino Caucus

 

Roland Roebuck – Activist

 

Maryland’s Governor Proposes $150 Million For Policing

Maryland’s governor has a new 150 million dollar plan to fund the police departments in the state.

Describing it as a plan to “re-fund the police” Maryland governor Larry Hogan has announced $150 million proposal that would increase officer pay, body-cameras and victim services for police departments across the state.  Hogan called any efforts to defund the police far-left lunacy.  The governor says his plan, which comes amid rising crime across the country, would provide a desperately needed shot in the arm to state and local police agencies in their critical efforts to stop crime.

Should You Always Split The Bill With Your Significant Other?

https://youtu.be/VsCIUIlNB3w

Angela Stribling is out celebrating her birthday but Nina Brown is holdin’ it down for the first ladies of WHUR. We had a ball, as always, but Angela was definitely missed. But what really got the ladies going was the question — Should You Always Split The Bill With Your Significant Other? What are your thoughts?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANGELA!!!

The History Of WHUR

https://youtu.be/gnJwT8Y2rcY

We’re hearing all kinds of great stories that make heritage station, WHUR, what it is today.

Press play to hear from WHUR’S deputy GM, Stephen Robinson; Multicast Director, Vicci Saunders; Media Entrepreneur, Sheila Eldridge; and Producer & programmer, Brittani Riddle.

Howard Alumna New Judge on HBO’s ‘Craftopia’

Contributed by Lauren Taylor

Howard Alumna and Head Creative of the production company, A Very Good Job, Crystal Anderson will be a judge on HBO’s Craftopia.

‘Craftopia’ is a competition where 9 to 15-year-old crafters compete with amazing creations in
order to take home the “Craftrophia.”

According to Howard Girl Love, this season of Craftopia will be filled with Halloween-themed fun! Season 2 of Craftopia is out now on HBO!

Howard U’s Largest Alumni Donation in History Made by Local Couple

Contributed by Lauren Taylor

Howard Alumni Eddie C. Brown (B.S.E.E. ‘61) and C. Sylvia Brown (B.S. ‘62) gifted their alma mater $5 million in order to support the Graduation Retention Access to Continued Excellence (GRACE) Grant for students in financial need.

The couple’s donation makes it the largest alumni gift to Howard University in the University’s history. Eddie Brown is the founder, chairman, and CEO of Brown Capital management. Which is the second oldest Black-owned investment management firm in the world.

Eddie Brown started at Howard University campus at the young age of 16 years old in the College of Engineering. On that same campus is where he met Sylvia who was a student in what was then the College of Liberal Arts. The Brown’s decision to donate this historic gift in support of the GRACE Grant was not only due to their love of Howard but also because of their background. Eddie came from a low-income family and was given the opportunity to go to Howard on a full-ride by his 10th grade English teacher, who was also a graduate of Howard. Sylvia had student loans and understands the difficulty and stress that can have on a student.

She also said, “ Being from a family of four, my parents did the best they could, but that was never enough to pay all the fees. And that’s been our mantra, to give to others and help them at least be able to get an undergraduate degree so they have a good foundation.” This gift means a lot and is what Sylvia calls not giving back but “paying it forward.”

President of Howard University Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick says, “The GRACE Grant has helped to eliminate financial barriers to education for Howard students, and I am thrilled that the Browns were inspired to commit such a generous gift to this important fund. My hope is that students will be inspired by their story and generosity and that others in our alumni community will consider the many ways they, too, can impact current and future generations of Howard students.”

It’s Our Season of Giving

Join us tomorrow for our annual Children’s Coat Drive

DOING GOOD IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD.  WHUR’S SEASON OF GIVING KICKS INTO HIGH GEAR THIS WEEKEND WITH OUR ANNUAL CHILDREN’S COAT DRIVE.  I’M JOINED BY MY COLLEAGUE  RENEE NASH –DIRECTOR OF NEWS AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS… WHO HAS THE DETAILS ON HOW YOU CAN GET IN ON MAKING SURE OUR YOUTH HAVE THE WINTER GEAR THEY NEED FOR THE COLD WEATHER.

The 19TH ANNUAL WHUR CHILDREN’S COAT DRIVE IS SATURDAY OCTOBER 16TH FROM 12PM TO 5PM AT THE SHOPS AT IVERSON – 3737 BRANCH AVENUE IN TEMPLE HILLS.  STOP BY AND DROP OFF A NEW COAT AND OTHER WINTER GEAR TO HELP NEEDY YOUTH IN THE DMV.  WE ARE COLLECTING FOR CHILDREN AGES NEW BORN UP TO 17-YEARS-OLD. WWW.WHUR.COM

Tune in to Taking it to the Streets, weekday mornings at 6:15, 7:08 and 8:40 on the Steve Harvey Morning Show on 96.3 WHUR.

Follow me on facebook and twitter at @bobbygailes for updates and to stay connected.

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and each year, specifically in our Insight segment, we take time to highlight the issue of breast cancer with a focus on survival, strength, struggle, and the latest research.

AUDIO:

Our guests:


Dr. Lori Wilson – Division Chief of Surgical Oncology at Howard University Hospital

Dr. Unnia Pettus –  Breast Cancer Survivor

Comedy and Political Correctness…Can Jokes Go Too Far or Are Some More Sensitive Than Others..

Can comedians go too far when telling jokes about the LBGTQ community?

The new Dave Chappelle Netflix comedy special, The Closer, has some folks in the LBGTQ community bothered by some of the comedian’s comments.  Is this simply about jokes or is political correctness and sensitivity at play?

Guests:

David Johns – Executive Director, National Black Justice Coalition

Hope Giselle – Author, Activist & Journalist

 

Sports Roundtable

Kyrie Irving, NFL emails and Covid vaccinations among pro palyers dominating topics in the world of sports.

NBA star Kyrie Irving says he will not get the Covid-19 vaccine. His team, the Brooklyn Nets, says that Iriving will not practice with or play in any of its games until he is vaccinated.   That is not the only big sports news. There are 650-000 thousand emails as part of the NFL’s investigation of an alleged toxic workplace with the Washington Football Team organization.  Several of those emails cost Jon Gruden his job as head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders.  We’re talking about that and more in our sports roundtable.

AUDIO:

Guest:

Dr. Reed Tuckson – Co-Founder of Blacks Against COVID-19

 

Kelsey Nicole – Reporter, Fox Sports

David Steele – Author and reporter/writer for the Undefeated

 

What To Do When Your Bosses Don’t Appreciate You?

Dealing with a boss that doesn’t appreciate you or your work.

You love what you do, but maybe you don’t love your boss because that boss doesn’t appreciate you.  How should you handle that?  Should you quit?  Complain?  As we approach National Bosses Day, our experts offer some advice on how to deal with your higher-up while keeping your career on track.

AUDIO:

Guests:

Tonya Sloans – Attorney & Career Strategist

Deborah Owens – Career Advisor & Founder of the Corporate Alley Cat

Queen Latifah Addresses The Stigma Around Obesity

Contributed by Lauren Taylor

The Novo Nordisk Campaign “It’s Bigger Than Me” aims to educate people on the clinical
condition of obesity. The star rapper and actress, Queen Latifah, joined the campaign in their efforts to
inform the people.

Latifah tells PEOPLE, “We want to live long healthy lives. We want to be around to see all the good things happen, you
know?’

For that reason, she decided to join the pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk in the “It’s Bigger Than Me’ campaign. Their mission is to destigmatize obesity and they will do that by providing online resources and videos. The campaign does this using four short PSA’s inspired by roles throughout the career of Queen Latifah.

https://youtu.be/QeVzbZV6K7g

On the “It’s Bigger Than Me” website, Latifah reveals “I’ve experienced being judged by others because of my weight. I know the negative effect it can have on you, but I never let that stop me — and neither should you.”

‘The Wendy Williams Show’ Will Return Without Wendy

Contributed by Lauren Taylor

Wendy Williams will not be returning to her daytime talk show ‘The Wendy Williams Show’ next week. An announcement was produced via the show’s Instagram stating that, Williams, 57, is battling a “breakthrough case of COVID-19.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Wendy Williams (@wendyshow)

The show’s production company states “ Wendy continues to be under medical supervision and meets with her medical team on a daily basis. She is making progress but is experiencing serious complications as a direct result of Graves’ Disease and her thyroid condition.”

The show also announced that starting October 18th they will start airing originals featuring a guest host lineup. The first guest host will be Emmy-winning producer, Leah Remini. She will host the show the entire week. There will also be guest panelists for ‘Hot Talk’ like Bevy Smith, Michael Yo, Devyn Simone, and Elizabeth Wagmeister.

We are sending love and thoughts to Wendy Williams!

‘Shameless’ Actor’ Ricarlo Flanagan Dies Of COVID

Contributed by Lauren Taylor
Ricarlo Flanagan, the actor, rapper, and stand-up comedian had died at age 40. He was best known for his role as Davey in Shameless. He also was a semifinalist on Season 9 of “Last Comic Standing.”

On Oct 1. Flanagan had posted on Twitter that had contracted coronavirus.

Flanagan’s agent, Stu Golfman, confirmed the news to Deadline saying wonderful things about his client. His statement goes as follows, “Ricarlo was one of the nicest people I have ever met in my life and a joy to work for. He will be missed dearly.”

Ricarlo leaves behind a wife whose name has not been disclosed as of yet.

Usher Welcomes Son Sire

Contributed by Lauren Taylor
Congratulations are definitely in order!
On Tuesday, Usher announced via Instagram his son with girlfriend Jenn Goicoechea was born
on September 29th. “The newest addition to the Raymond Crew” is named Sire Castrello
Raymond born 7lb., 13 o.z.

This is the singer’s fourth baby, the couple had their daughter Sovereign Bo in 2020. Usher also
has two children from previous relationships, Naviyd Ely, 12, and Usher V, 13.

Demetrius Flenory Jr. On His Family’s Reaction to His Portrayal on ‘BMF’

Helping The Homeless

The Neighborhood Wells provides showers for those living on the streets

A unique approach this morning to help the homeless in the DMV providing showers to those who have no place to call home.  It’s a mobile shower unit that’s crisscrossing the area.  My guest is Omolayo Adebayo – Founder of The Neighborhood Well, Inc.

The Neighborhood Well Inc. seeks to meet the immediate needs of the homeless and unstably house communities while creating a pipeline to other organizations and resources.  The organization has a mobile shower unit to provide warm showers and hope to the homeless population. For more information go here: 

Tune in to Taking it to the Streets, weekday mornings at 6:15, 7:08 and 8:40 on the Steve Harvey Morning Show on 96.3 WHUR.

Follow me on facebook and twitter at @bobbygailes for updates and to stay connected.

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Smokey Robinson Speaks of His COVID Battle

Legendary singer Smokey Robinson is opening up about his battle with COVID 19.
In a recent DailyMail interview, Robinson revealed that he was in the hospital for 11 days.
“I was sure that I would never be able to sing again because it took my voice. I could barely even talk,” said Smokey. Robinson also revealed that at first when he took a COVID test the results were negative.
Smokey said he didn’t lose his sense of taste or smell, but he revealed that he couldn’t “walk from the bed to the bathroom.”
Fortunately, Smokey has recovered and is back on the road doing shows at age 81.
Do you think we’ll have a better grasp of COVID by the end of the year?

Coachella Is Coming Back to the Desert

Coachella has changed its vaccination entry requirements for next year’s festival.
The folks at Coachella have decided to scrap their policy of needing to have a double vaccination for entry into the 2022 Coachella festival.
It was back in August that AEG said they wouldn’t be accepting a negative COVID test for entry.
Are you planning to check out Coachella next year?

DaBaby Responds to Fat Joe Calling Him the 2021 Version of 2Pac

Recently Fat Joe called DaBaby the 2021 version of 2Pac, the comment left some fans questioning the reason for such a comment.

Now DaBaby is weighing in with his thoughts on Fat Joe’s comment writing on Instagram, “Agreed,” along with a thumbs up emoji. “But they gone salt that down to Crack,” he wrote with a shhh, quiet emoji.

If not DaBaby, is there anyone you would consider the 2021 version of 2Pac?

Letitia Wright May Be Out of ‘Black Panther’

Letitia Wright’s time in the MCU may be winding down thanks to her anti-vax views.
Letitia, who plays Shuri in the Black Panther franchise, may have her role minimized by the folks at Marvel because of her anti-vaccine viewpoint.
The rift started several months ago when Letitia shared a social media post about the COVID vaccine and its safety.
Black Panther 2 is expected to be a huge hit when it’s released. The first film made over $1 billion.
Do you think Letitia should be taken off the film? Have you talked with co-workers about the COVID vaccine?

Venus Williams & K-Swiss Team Up for Limited Release

Venus Williams and K-Swiss have teamed up for another limited edition capsule collection.
The line is called Retro by EleVen x K-Swiss.
The line is available now.
The cost ranges from $74 to $158.
It’s 17 pieces that fuses timeless and classic designs with a contemporary twist.
Which celebrity (athletes, singers, actor) makes the best clothing line?

Issa Rae Announces Insecure Watch Parties Ahead of Season 5 Premiere

Issa Rae is getting fans ready for the season 5 of finale of Insecure.
She is showing season 1 thru 4 in theaters and gave fans the opportunity to buy tickets.
Fans will get drinks and snacks sponsored by Ciroc and Deleon.
The dates of the viewings are in Los Angeles
October 14th Season 1 5pm
October 15th Season 2 5p
October 16th Season 3 6p
October 17th Season 4 12 noon

What was your favorite season of Insecure?

Grant Programs For HBCU’s

The SBA has new grant programs for Minority Serving Institutions

The Small Business Administration has several programs in play and they want to make sure businesses of color are in the know.  My guest this morning is here to spotlight some of the programs.  My guest is Bibi Hidalgo – Associate Administrator of the Small Business Administration

The Small Business administration has new grant programs for HBCUs and Minority Servicing Institutions to leverage the power and resources to help incubate, develop, and produce successful small businesses in under-represented communities. For more information go here: 

 

Tune in to Taking it to the Streets, weekday mornings at 6:15, 7:08 and 8:40 on the Steve Harvey Morning Show on 96.3 WHUR.

Follow me on facebook and twitter at @bobbygailes for updates and to stay connected.

Listen to this mornings segment here:

 

HU Homecoming 2021 “Remember the Times”

Howard University’s 2021 Homecoming will be closed to alumni unless otherwise specified. This year’s homecoming will feature a variety of student-centered events with limited in-person capacity.

Washington, D.C. (Tuesday, October 12, 2021) – Howard University has released the theme and COVID safety protocols for Homecoming 2021.

This year’s theme is “Remember the Times” with activities being a combination of in-person smaller events for students and mostly virtual festivities of alumni.

Howard Homecoming festivities are scheduled for October 16-24. As a safety precaution, this year’s Homecoming in-person events will be closed to alumni unless otherwise specified. This year’s Homecoming will feature a variety of student-centered events with limited in-person capacity and options to view events via a livestream. A variety of special alumni events will also be hosted virtually.

“Howard is calling on students, alumni, faculty and staff to remember their first Homecoming experience, their first Homecoming football game and fond University experiences,” said Howard University President Wayne A. I. Frederick. “Homecoming is an ideal opportunity to recommit ourselves to navigating the current social landscape and building toward Howard’s future.”

Howard students will kick off Homecoming with the Bison Madness pep rally on Monday, October 18. This year’s Homecoming will also feature the Fashion Show, Greek Life Step Show, a modified Homecoming Concert, the annual Lavender (LGBTQ+) Reception, and Homecoming Day of Service events. In July, Howard University announced a modified Homecoming plan that placed large-scale events on hiatus due to COVID-19-related public health conditions.

Howard students will kick off Homecoming with the Bison Madness pep rally on Monday, October 18. This year’s Homecoming will also feature the Fashion Show, Greek Life Step Show, a modified Homecoming Concert, the annual Lavender (LGBTQ+) Reception, and Homecoming Day of Service events. In July, Howard University announced a modified Homecoming plan that placed large-scale events on hiatus due to COVID-19-related public health conditions.

As a safety precaution, individuals will be required to download the Bison SAFE app and complete the daily COVID-19 self-assessment prior to entering any Homecoming events held in-person. Bison SAFE is the official safety app of Howard University. Read more here

Teaching Our Youth Sports and More

Baller Tykes is a youth sports program for kids 2-8 years old

We are taking it to the hoops this morning.  My guest today runs a basketball program that teaches youth as young as two the game of basketball mixing in some fundamentals that go well beyond the court.  Ahjah Spinks – Coach and Founder of Baller Tykes

Baller Tykes is a youth sports program for kids ages 2 to 8.  The program teaches the fundamentals of sports skills thru exciting child friendly themes to promote social emotional development.  For more information go here:

 

Tune in to Taking it to the Streets, weekday mornings at 6:15, 7:08 and 8:40 on the Steve Harvey Morning Show on 96.3 WHUR.

Follow me on facebook and twitter at @bobbygailes for updates and to stay connected.

Listen to this mornings segment here:

Approval Sought For Experimental Covid Pill

New COVID-19 drug research.

The pharmaceutical company Merck is requesting the FDA authorize emergency use of an experimental pill to treat coronavirus. Merck’s request comes just after phase three clinical trial data showed the anti-viral medication reduced the chances of hospitalization for newly diagnosed patients by about 50-percent.
Merck says it specifically asked the FDA to grant emergency use for adults with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 who are at risk for severe disease or hospitalization.  Officials with the drugmaker say adding a pill to the fight against the coronavirus would be a game-changer.                                                  Meanwhile, an FDA advisory committee will consider emergency use authorization for Moderna and Johnson & Johnson COVID vaccine boosters. The meetings are set for Thursday and Friday. Currently, both vaccines have emergency use authorization for adults 18 and up.

Taraji P. Henson Reveals She’s Working On An EP With A “Feel-Good” Vibe

Taraji P. Henson was a guest on Good Morning America when she broke exciting news.
She said she is working on an EP.
I’m just working on some really good, feel-good music. I’m not trying to toot my own horn here but it was time for a pivot.
If fear or money was not an issue for you, what career pivot would you make?

https://youtu.be/37dmwDroZOY

Rihanna Dines With John Mayer In L.A.

There is hope for Rihanna’s highly anticipated album as the singer was spotted out to dinner with friend, John Mayer.

Rihanna looked relaxed as she showed up to San Vicente Bungalows in Los Angeles wearing baggy, ripped jeans, a twisted brown crop top and chunky tan cardigan. She accessorized with several necklaces which she layered and strappy heels.

Although there is no date for an album from Rihanna, her fans are holding her accountable for putting out music sooner rather than later.

What do you think about a Rihanna and John Mayer collaboration?