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Concert Promoter AEG Presents to Require Proof of Vaccination

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One of the country’s biggest concert promoters has announced it will require proof of vaccination from all concertgoers and staff members.
The requirement will affect shows at dozens of venues and music festivals run by AEG Presents, the company reveals in a statement issued Thursday. Among AEG’s iconic properties are Webster Hall in New York, The Roxy and El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles, the Coachella Music and Arts Festival, and The Theatre at Resorts World in Las Vegas.
“Just a few weeks ago, we were optimistic about where our business, and country, were heading,” says COO Jay Marciano. “The Delta variant, combined with vaccine hesitancy, is pushing us in the wrong direction again.”
Could anti-vaxxers argue that this is a form of discrimination?

Aretha’s Granddaughter Shocks Everyone During Duet with Jennifer Hudson

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Aretha Franklin’s granddaughter, Grace Franklin, showed off her singing skills by covering one of her grandma’s songs.
During the ‘Respect’ premiere, Grace Franklin and Jennifer Hudson teamed up to sing a duet of ‘Ain’t No Way’.
Jennifer shared the clip on her IG page with the caption, “Grace Franklin sings ‘Ain’t No Way’ at ‘Respect’ premiere.”
Grace had some words at the Premiere before her amazing performance.
She said, “I’m so happy to see my grandmother honored in such an amazing way. ‘Ain’t No Way’ is my favorite song from my grandma, so I hope y’all enjoy it!”
What is your favorite song from Aretha Franklin?

Kanye West Has A New Release Date for ‘Donda’?

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Kanye West has had two listening sessions for his new album ‘Donda’, but he has yet to keep his word on the release date.
Now Apple Music is claiming that ‘Donda’ will be available on their platform on August 15, but media outlets are claiming that Kanye will drop the project on August 22.
Juicy J has commented on the delay in the release by commenting, “I made a bet it would be pushed back & won $15k.”
Kanye West might even drop the project and change it every week as a new way to put out an ever-changing album. Fans will have to wait and see.
Do you think Kanye West will drop ‘Donda’ this month? Or do you think he is waiting for Drake to drop first before releasing ‘Donda’?

Da Brat and Jesseca Dupart Share How They Changed Each Other

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Da Brat and her girlfriend, Jesseca Dupart, are showcasing their love for each other in a new reality show called ‘Brat Loves Judy” on WeTv.
Da Brat said that Jesseca had a huge impact on her coming out.
She said, “I’ve been private my whole life. I felt like as an artist back in the day it wasn’t safe to come out and tell people that you were into the same sex and I definitely was protecting all of my assets because, like I said, Ellen lost everything and it just wasn’t cool, so I decided to keep my life private because that was all I knew, but when I met Jesseca, Judy, I met someone who was living out loud, who was very happy and transparent about her life and career and it just encouraged me to not give a f*** about what people had to say about what I felt. Because I should be the most important person in my life. I should make myself happy before I made anyone else happy and that’s what she’s taught me.”
Jesseca said, “I fell in love with how loving she is. On the outside, she has a really really hard exterior but she is the most considerate, most thoughtful, most caring person that you will ever meet. We will be out somewhere and she will ask everybody, ‘Are you okay? Are you alright? Do you need anything?’ and you wouldn’t expect that from somebody of her caliber, you would think probably that people cater to her. She is the opposite of that. I fell in love with the loving part of her.”
‘Brat Loves Judy’ is on WeTV and has new episodes every Thursday.
Are you sick of all these reality shows? What is your favorite reality show out right now?

Sanaa Lathan Said She Almost Quit Auditioning For ‘Love and Basketball’

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Sanaa Lathan recently revealed that she almost quit acting because of the auditioning process of her classic film ‘Love and Basketball’.
She said, “I really learned a big life lesson when I was actually auditioning for ‘Love and Basketball’. It was a situation where Gina [Prince-Bythewood], the director, did not want an actress who could play basketball. She wanted a basketball player who could act the role. And I soon found out and soon realized that she really wasn’t wanting to hire me.”
Sanaa said that she constantly heard whispers from everywhere during that time to ‘quit’.
She said, “Several people in my life, including some of my representation, said, ‘Just drop out.'”
Sanaa claimed that it was one person who changed her outlook on the audition process.
She said, “It was really hard to keep kind of investing and trying to prove myself and keep kind of being shot down. And I was on the verge of dropping out of the audition process. And I had a mentor, a female mentor, a Black woman who really helped me back then with my kind of transition as an actress into the business. And she said to me, she was like, ‘do you love acting?’ and I said, ‘Yes.’ And she’s like, ‘Are you having fun learning basketball?’ And I thought about it and was like, ‘Yeah.’ She was like, ‘Are you getting a good workout when you’re playing basketball.’ I said, ‘Yeah.’ She was like, ‘Then just do it for that.’ Stop worrying about getting the job. Get into your joy. As soon as I switched to that energy and started having fun in the process, I got the job.”
Who is the biggest motivator in your life? How helps drive you in your goals or career?

Erykah Badu Apologizes To The Obamas After Recording Former U.S. President’s ‘Maskless’ Party

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By now you’ve heard that Barack Obama’s 60th birthday party was attended by many high-profile celebrities. One of the celebs who attended the party is apologizing for being a “terrible guest.”

Erykah Badu tweeted her apology to the former president and first lady writing, “Mr and Mrs Obama, please forgive me for being the “terrible guest “ at such a sacred event for your family. I was so inconsiderate, thank you for all your love. What an example of ‘how not ‘ to be, erica.”

The apology received mixed reactions online, with some feeling there was no need for an apology others felt the veteran singer should know that recording such a sacred event is off-limits.

Others praised the “Call Tyrone” singer for having integrity. “Good for you Erykah you have integrity. You are woman enough to apologize. The people saying don’t apologize don’t understand integrity,” tweeted @ReneeRevelation.

Do you think Erykah Badu was wrong for recording at Barack Obama’s 60th birthday party?

Study: Video Games Can Be Good For Mental Health

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A new study says playing video games can offer a boost to mental health – especially for older adults.
Researchers at the University of Utah have begun using video games to help treat depression among people over the age of 60.
The games are specially designed to be “interesting and palatable to older adults”. They say patients can begin to think and act differently after about two weeks.
In some cases, the games proved more effective than antidepressants.
What kind of effect do video games have on your brain? Are certain types of games more beneficial than others?

Meek Mill: First Rapper To Receive Mandela Humanitarian Award

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Meek Mill shared a prestigious award with fans on Thursday (August 12). Meek is the only rapper to be awarded the Nelson Mandela Humanitarian Award.

Meek took to Instagram to show off the new hardware placed on his mantel. “Blessings..,” he wrote as the caption. “I got the ‘Nelson Mandela humanitarian award’ Thankyou Rip to the great Nelson Mandela. ‘I ain’t grow up playing ball I had a smith & western* because where I’m from it’s very hard to turn 27’ #survivors.”

The “Dreams and Nightmares” rapper received several congratulatory messages from famous friends such as Slim Thug, DC Young Fly, Miami Heat’s P.J. Tucker, record executive Steven Victor, and former NBA champion Stephen Jackson.

Meek has been an advocate for prison reform since getting released from prison in 2018. He teamed up with JAY-Z and sports mogul, Michael Rubin to establish the REFORM Alliance to advocate for change in the probation and parole systems.

Who else do you feel should receive the Nelson Mandela Humanitarian Award?

Getting Ready For Back To School

WHUR is teaming up with our partners to hand out book bags and school supplies.

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IT’S ALL ABOUT HELPING TO GET OUR YOUTH READY FOR SCHOOL.  WHUR IS TEAMING UP WITH A HOST OF PARTNERS TO MAKE IT HAPPEN THIS YEAR FOR YOUNGSTERS ACROSS THE DMV.  I’M joined this morning by my colleague … RENEE NASH – DIRECTOR OF NEWS AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS FOR WHUR WITH ALL THE DETAILS.

WHUR is teaming up with our partners of goodwill to handout hundreds of bookbags filled with school supplies with school season.

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:

It’s All About “The Warmth Of You”

“R&B Doesn’t Have To Be Predictable Or Boring.”

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Will Downing is clearly one gifted vocalist. But, it doesn’t stop there. Yes, R & B has been around for a very long time. But, that doesn’t mean it has to be predictable and boring. At least, not when you listen to a Will Downing song. His songs take you on a romantic journey.

He clearly found his own lane.. It’s a sexy lane that runs somewhere between Jazz and R&B. Listen in as we talk about what went into his new single that drops tomorrow: The Warmth Of You

Virgina’s Governor Makes Masks Mandatory

Masks made mandatory in Virginia by Northam.

Posted by Andrea Muñoz
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Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam issued a universal mask mandate for K-12 schools on Thursday.  The move comes after a handful of school districts in recent days decided to buck the governor’s interpretation of a state law and opt not to require face coverings.  Tension over the issue has exploded at numerous school board meetings in Virginia recently.

2020 Census Reveals Demographic Shifts

The 2020 U.S. Census reports shows a decrease in the white population for the first time.

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America’s white population shrank to a key mark for the first time in U.S. history. The latest U.S. Census Bureau numbers shows American growth is being driven by minorities and the white population now stands at 58-percent, the first time that they have fallen under the 60 percent mark since the Census was first conducted. The 2010 Census showed whites made up about 63-percent of the population. Since 2010, the Asian population grew by 35-percent, the Hispanic population rose by 23-percent, and the Black population grew five-point-six percent.

Beyoncé Reveals Why Her Iconic ‘Single Ladies’ Video Is In Black and White

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In Beyoncé’s recent interview with Harper’s Bazaar, the 39-year-old talks about her decision to make videos like, “If I Were A Boy,” “Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)” in black and white instead of color.

“I remember being in a meeting discussing analytics, and I was told the research discovered that my fans did not like when my photography was black-and-white,” said Beyoncé.

“They told me I wouldn’t sell if it wasn’t in color. That was ridiculous. It pissed me off that an agency could dictate what my fans wanted based on a survey. Who did they ask? How is it possible to generalize people this much? Are these studies accurate? Are they fair? Are all the people I’m trying to uplift and shine a light on included? They’re not.” she continued.

By defying her team and committing to her gut instinct, Beyoncé’s album, “I Am…Sasha Fierce” became her biggest commercial success to date.

Have you seen success after going against the grain? Share your story.

Denzel Directs Michael B. Jordan In Romantic Drama

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Denzel Washington is directing his protégé, Michael B. Jordan in the romantic drama, “A Journal For Jordan.”

The film is based on First Sergeant Charles Monroe King, played by Jordan, and the letters he wrote to his newborn son while overseas.

King was killed in Iraq when his son was seven months old. His wife, Canedy, played by Chanté Adams, keeps all the letters in a book.

“A Journal For Jordan,” is written by Virgil Williams, who also wrote the Grammy-nominated 2017 movie, Mudbound.

Washington directs and produces “A Journal For Jordan” alongside Jordan.

What are your favorite Denzel and Michael B. Jordan movies?

White Population Declines For First Time In US History

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The number of people who identify as white is expected to be on the decline according to new census reports.

The racial breakdown of the United States census is expected to be revealed later this week. For the first time, the white population is expected to be on the decline.

William Frey, a demographer at the Brookings Institution, says the decline is due to the opioid epidemic and millennials not having babies.

The white population is expected to be under 60 percent with the majority of those under 18 are people of color. The new Census Bureau data will be released on August 12th.

How do you think the decline of the white population will affect the future of the U.S.?

Kanye West Breaks His Own “Donda” Record on Apple Music

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Kanye has yet to release his highly anticipated, Donda album and already breaking records over it.
His second live event at the Mercedes Benz stadium in Atlanta doubled in viewership from his first event.
The red jacket he wore is from his Gap collection is also sold out.
35,000 jackets sold out at $200 each. The jacket has no zipper and does not ship for six months!
We already know the success of his Yeezy’s.
What is it about Kanye? During the election people swore he was going to be ‘canceled’ and that is not the case.

Parents Call Out YouTube for Harming Kids

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The parent-led ‘Campaign to End Child Surveillance’ projects their messages on the YouTube building on Wednesday Aug. 11th, 2021 in Los Angeles. Parents are responding to YouTube’s announcement about changes to their YouTube Kids platform this week, calling them insufficient and noting that addictive and manipulative practices targeted at children will continue on the platform.

Cece Winans Lands Dove Award Nominations

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — North Carolina-based Elevation Worship and singer-songwriter Brandon Lake are each nominated for seven awards at the Gospel Music Association’s Dove Awards, and Elevation’s lead singer and songwriter Chris Brown earned nine nominations.
The 52nd annual Dove Awards are planned for Oct. 19 in Nashville, Tennessee, where the leading voices in gospel and worship music will be honored.
Steven Furtick, the pastor of Elevation Church in North Carolina and songwriter for the worship group, also had 10 nominations, making him the top non-artist nominee. Other artists with several nominations include for KING & COUNTRY, CeCe Winans, Ed Cash and Zach Williams.
Artist of the year nominees include Elevation Worship, for KING & COUNTRY, Lauren Daigle, Phil Wickham and Zach Williams. Gospel artist of the year include CeCe Winans, Jonathan McReynolds, Kirk Franklin, Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Travis Greene.
Online: https://doveawards.com/

Judge: Norwegian Cruises Can Require Proof of Vaccination

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MIAMI (AP) — A federal judge has temporarily blocked a Florida law that prevents cruise lines from requiring passengers to prove they’re vaccinated against COVID-19. The judge says it appears unconstitutional and won’t likely hold up in court. Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the ban on so-called “vaccine passports,” saying he wants to protect medical privacy and prevent discrimination. But Judge Kathleen Williams says it fails to protect people even as it appears to violate the free speech rights of cruise lines. She says Norwegian Cruise Lines has shown that without proof of vaccination, cruising will jeopardize public health by potentially causing “super-spreader” events wherever passengers disembark.

‘Jeopardy!’ Producer Richards Named Host; Role for Bialik

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By LYNN ELBER AP Television Writer
LOS ANGELES (AP) — A new host has been chosen for the long-running “Jeopardy!” to fill the void left by the death of the beloved Alex Trebex. Executive producer Mike Richards will succeed Trebek as host on the daily syndicated quiz show. Richards was chosen over a field of celebrity candidates from TV, sports and journalism. But after fan backlash to a selection process that turned messy in recent weeks, producer Sony split the pie by naming another guest host, actor Mayim Bialik, as emcee for “Jeopardy!” primetime and spinoff series, including a new college championship. In another nod to “Jeopardy!” devotees, longtime champion Ken Jennings will return as a consulting producer. Trebek died last year.

#MeToo Take 2? Movement’s Strength Hailed Amid Cuomo Fallout

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By JOCELYN NOVECK AP National Writer
NEW YORK (AP) — Since its launch in 2017, the #MeToo movement has experienced some fits and starts. But many associated with the movement have been buoyed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s announcement that he’s resigning amid a slew of sexual harassment allegations, seeing the outcome as a sign of the movement’s durability. Anita Hill, who essentially introduced sexual harassment to the public in 1991, says “the conversation has changed” as a result of #MeToo. Attorney Debra Katz, who represents Cuomo accuser Charlotte Bennett, says the governor’s resignation is a crucial moment of reckoning. And #MeToo founder Tarana Burke says it’s an encouraging sign that a younger, bolder generation of accusers is coming forward.

In Her Name: Amanda Gorman Award Honors High School Poets

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By HILLEL ITALIE AP National Writer
NEW YORK (AP) — Amanda Gorman, who became world famous in January after reading “The Hill We Climb” at President Joe Biden’s inauguration, can still remember when she was just another young poet trying to find her voice. Gorman and Penguin Random House have established the Amanda Gorman Award for Poetry, a $10,000 prize for public high school students who submit the best original work. Current public high school seniors in the U.S. and all U.S. territories who plan to attend a 2- or 4-year college are eligible for the Gorman award. The application period runs from Oct. 1 to Feb. 1, 2022.

Special: “Beyond the Basics, Education In A Pandemic World”

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As students prepare to return to school, the lessons will likely go beyond reading, writing, and arithmetic. Join 96.3 WHUR and WHUT-TV for our monthly special edition of the Daily Drum August 18th at 7pm as we present “Beyond the Basics… Education In A Pandemic World.” What will the classroom be like for your youngster… and how do you ensure their safety? We’ll put the tough questions to educators. The Daily Drum on WHUR and WHUT and streaming right here on WHUR.com. Better Together!

Providing Laptops To Residents

The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System received a $2.5 million donation to assist residents

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Good news for Prince George’s County Memorial Library System.  The county’s libraries are receiving a multi-million dollar donation  that will benefit residents in need of laptops and other critical technical resources.  My guest is Nicholas Brown – Chief Operating Officer for Communication and Outreach

Prince George’s County Memorial Library System has received a $2.5 million donation that allows libraries to offer over 900 borrowable laptops to residents.  The grant money also calls for five tech labs and workshop programs to be located at branch libraries thru-out the county. 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:

 

Community Reacts to DC Police Brutality

Reaction to calls of excessive force by DC police

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Video of a white DC police officer repeatedly punching a black, male suspect while has was being restrained has heightened concerns of the excessive police force by DC police.  District politicians, the public, the city’s police chief, and the mayor have denounced the actions of the officer, but what comes next?

LINK:

Our guest:

Trayon White – DC Councilman, Ward 8

Ron Moten – DC Activist

Loudon County School Board To Vote On Transgender Policy

A new transgender policy could be adopted for Loudon County (VA) public schools.

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The Loudoun County (VA) School Board will vote tonight on wether to adopt a new controversial transgender student policy.  That policy would allow transgender students to use the gender pronouns that they wish and staff would need to follow suit. Students would also be allowed to use restrooms and locker rooms of their chosen gender. More than 150 people voiced their opinions on the proposal last night at the county’s school board meeting.

Club Liv Supplying COVID Vaccine

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Now when you go out for a night of partying at Club Liv, just know you can also get vaccinated for COVID-19.
The Miami hotspot is also waiving door fees if you can show proof that you’re vaccinated.

“We are excited to, we want to stay open, and we know the only way to make that happen is if people get vaccinated,” said LIV owner David Grutman.
As of August 5, Florida led the country in new COVID cases.
Are you vaccinated? What do you think of LIV’s efforts to get people vaccinated?

‘High on the Hog’ Renewed by Netflix

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High on the Hog has been renewed for a second season.
The well-received cooking series pays homage to African-Americans that helped to shape the American kitchen.
Season 1 took trips to South Carolina, Benin West Africa, Texas, Philly, and New York.
As far as what to expect from season 2, producers simply said, “the best is yet to come.”
Have you had a chance to binge High on the Hog?

50 Cent Believes DaBaby Will Bounce Back

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50 Cent recently gave perspective on DaBaby’s “cancelation” due to homophobic comments he made during the Rolling Loud Festival and 50 has committed himself to mentor the “Ball If I Want To” rapper.

“He is a really talented, special artist, right?” Fif began. “And he just transitioned from being in that pool that everyone’s in as a Rap artist. Like, they didn’t notify him that he’s turning into a superstar.”

50 contests DaBaby had no media training, no PR to handle his recent crisis, and no artist development. He explains that DaBaby is only two years into his career and already getting feedback from legends such as Madonna and Elton John in a negative way.

50 says he’s confident that DaBaby will “bounce back” and says, “Remember they tried to cancel Chris Brown five or six times.”

Do you agree with 50 Cent? Do you think labels should bring back artist development or should artists hire someone to help them on their way up?

DeVon Franklin Book Becoming a Movie

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Amazon Studios is hard at work transforming DeVon Franklin’s book Relationship Goals into a romantic comedy.
If you haven’t read the book, Relationship Goals is a guide written by Franklin to find love and maintain a healthy relationship with the one you love. The pastor’s book sat on the top of the New York Times bestseller list for 13 weeks and debuted at number one on Amazon.
Celebs like Steph Curry, Redman, Bishop TD jakes, and others are supporters.
Have you read Relationship Goals? What’s your advice for maintaining a healthy relationship?

Jennifer Hudson Plays Her Idol Aretha Franklin In ‘Respect’

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By LINDSEY BAHR AP Film Writer
Jennifer Hudson has in some ways been preparing to play Aretha Franklin for her entire life, but she was surprised when the Queen of Soul asked her to take on the role following her Oscar win for “Dreamgirls” in 2007. “Respect” would take almost 15 years to make it to the big screen, during which time Franklin died. Hudson believes that it’s the perfect time for the movie and that audiences may emerge from the film with a newfound respect for Franklin. The film from director Liesl Tommy follows the singer from childhood through the 1972 recording of the gospel album “Amazing Grace.” “Respect” opens nationwide Friday.

https://youtu.be/11ztymLp69k

Jennifer Hudson On The Steve Harvey Morning Show

Jennifer Hudson was on the Steve Harvey Mornings show this morning talking about “Respect” and much more.

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Oscar and Grammy Award Winning Actress Jennifer Hudson was the special guest this morning during SHMS.  Girl Talk Chat with Shirley Strawberry and Carla Ferrell. Jennifer will discuss her latest film project, “Respect” in the Aretha Franklin biopic as the “Queen of Soul,” as well as her new single “Here I Am.”

Listen to this mornings interview here:

Jay Z’s Cousin Sued

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Jay Z’s cousin Briant Biggs has been sued from swindling an investor out of $250,000.
According to a lawsuit, Biggs duped the investor who was putting in cash for a video game platform.
Biggs was part of a team that was raising $1.5 million for Roc Nation’s Unanimous Games subsidiary. Ryan Collision of Blueprint Capitol Holdings claims that Biggs said he would pay him back by March but that didn’t happen.
Collision is claiming that Biggs, Unanimous Games, and Roc Nation committed fraud and is looking to recoup unspecified damages.
Have you ever made a bad investment?

Will We Need Vaccine Passports To Do Fun Things?

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By MATT O’BRIEN AP Technology Writer
NEWPORT, R.I. (AP) — Ready to go out on the town before summer ends? In parts of the U.S., you might have to carry around your COVID-19 vaccine card or a digital copy to get into restaurants, bars, nightclubs and music festivals. After resisting the divisive concept of vaccine passports through most of the pandemic, some city and state officials and a fast-growing number of private venues are now requiring proof of immunization in certain public settings. The aim is to assuage customers worried about the spread of the highly transmissible delta variant. Privacy advocates have mixed feelings about the mandates, especially those that require forms of digital verification that could become permanent.

Nas To Headline “Concert To Feed NYC”

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Queens, New York rapper Nas will headline the “Concert to Feed NYC.”
The concert will benefit New York’s first and largest food rescue organization City Harvest.
Speaking about his gig Nas said, “I am looking forward to returning to the stage for a performance in my hometown especially since it supports a cause I care deeply about.”
Nas’ September 23 performance will be the first time in three years that the rapper has performed in NYC. Tickets go on sale Friday.
What’s your top three hip-hop concerts? Have you been to a concert since COVID mandates have been lifted?

Former College Track Champ Dies at 26

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Former NCAA track and field champion Cameron Burrell has died of undisclosed causes, his family announced on Tuesday. He was just 26 years old.
“My family is extremely saddened with the loss of our son, Cameron, last night,” says Leroy Burrell, who coached his son at the University of Houston. “We are going through profound sorrow and ask that all of our friends, extended University of Houston family and the track and field community in the U.S. and abroad allow us to gather with our closest family and friends.”
Burell, whose parents are both Olympic gold medal winners, was a member of Houston’s track and field team from 2013 through 2018, capturing an individual NCAA championship that was previously won by his dad 28 years earlier. He also helped score championship victory for the Cougars in his final season with the team. He’s survived by his parents and two brothers.

Beyonce Brings Major Virgo Energy To Harper’s Bazaar September ‘Icons’ Issue

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By now you’ve heard about Beyoncé’s rare interview with Harper’s Bazaar, but did you know that her Virgo energy keeps her from revealing parts of herself?

“The reason those folks don’t see certain things about me is because my Virgo ass does not want them to see it….It’s not because it doesn’t exist!” said the singer.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Harper’s BAZAAR (@harpersbazaarus)

In astrology, Virgos are said to be systematic in their approach to life, a perfectionist at heart, and aren’t afraid to improve skills through diligent and consistent practice.

Beyonce proves she’s the epitome of a Virgo as she describes how she works with people within her circle and through her company, Parkwood Entertainment. “I’ve surrounded myself with honest people who I admire, who have their own lives and dreams and are not dependent on me. People I can grow and learn from and vice versa.”

Are you a Virgo and also a perfectionist? Are you open to continue learning no matter how old you are?

See more pics of Beyonce with Harper’s Bazaar here.

Working To Improve Your Commute

Commuter Connections has information on transportation options

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As more workers begin to return to their in-person jobs, my guest this morning is encouraging employees to take public transportation again.  My guest is Nicholas Ramfos – Director of Commuter Connections

Commuter Connections is a regional network of transportation organizations working to improve commutes in the DMV. 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;

Man Punched By DC Police Officer While Being Arrested Is Released

The suspect punched by a DC police was released from custoday with no charges filed.

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The man seen on video being punched repeatedly by a DC officer while trying to be restrained and arrested will not will not face charges, though he was found to be carrying a gun.  The mayor felt the man should have been charged but believed prosecutors concluded it would have been difficult to get a conviction.  The officer seen punching the man has been placed on adminstrative leave, while three other officers involved have been removed from dealing with the public pending investigations.

Nick Cannon Explains Why He Has So Many Kids

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Nick Cannon just recently became a father, again, making him the proud pop to seven children with five different women.
In a recent interview, Cannon was asked about the number of kids he has and his response was, “But why do people question that? That’s a Eurocentric concept when you think about the ideas…you’re supposed to have this one person for the rest of your life. And really, that’s just to classify property when you think about it”.
When talking about the different women who he has children with he said, “Those women, all women, are the ones that open themselves up to say “I would like to allow this man in my world. And I will birth this child. It ain’t my decision. I’m following suit”.
Twitter definitely had some things to say about his reasons for having so many kids. One user tweeted, “Nick Cannon is not that bright. He just used circular logic to say he doesn’t like using condoms lol”. Another user said, “Nick Cannon saying he has multiple baby mommas is because he doesn’t subscribe to the Eurocentric beliefs is hilarious cause if you look at half his baby mommas/ex wife…”.
Do you believe Nick Cannon’s reason on why he has so many kids? Do you think he’ll have more kids? How would you feel if your child’s father had the same beliefs as Nick Cannon?

AMC Will Take Bitcoin for Tickets by Year’s End

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AMC Entertainment is getting into the Bitcoin craze.
Company CEO Adam Aron announced that AMC will begin accepting Bitcoin payments for U.S. movie tickets and concessions online by year’s end.
Aron also announced that Apple Pay and Google Pay will also soon be accepted.
Do you understand Bitcoin? Is this a good move by AMC?

NY Governor Andrew Cuomo Resigns

Saying he takes full responsibility for his actions, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced today he will resign effective in 14 days.

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#BREAKING – New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is stepping down.  The resignation follows a damaging report released last week by the state’s attorney detailing allegations of sexual harassment.  Cuomo says his resignation will be effective in 14 days.  “The best way I can help is if I step aside and let government get back to the governing,” said Cuomo.

Starbucks, McDonalds Back To Mask Mandates

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The surge of the Delta variant of COVID-19 has caused Starbucks and McDonald’s to pivot on their mask policy.
Starbucks now “strongly recommends” that customers wear masks when stopping in for a visit. McDonald’s is again making masks mandatory whether vaccinated or not.
Many believe that the way the chains are beginning to change policies could be a precursor for the rest of the country.
Have you started wearing a mask again? Do you think mask requirements everywhere will begin again?

DC Mayor Bowser Mandates Vaccinations for Government Workers

DC government workers, contractors, and interns have until September 19th to get vaccinated against COVID. Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the vaccination mandate today as cases continue to spiral in DC driven by the unvaccinated.

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WASHINGTON, DC (Tuesday, August 10, 2021) – Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced that vaccination against COVID-19 will be a requirement for all DC Government employees who work in agencies that report to the Mayor. Employees will have until Sunday, September 19, 2021 to meet the job requirement of being fully vaccinated.

Approximately 36,700 people are employed by DC Government, including employees of the Council of the District of Columbia and the Office of the Chief Financial Officer. To date, 21,746 employees have reported their vaccination status to the DC Department of Human Resources. Of the employees who have responded, approximately 19,907 employees, or about 54% of the total workforce, reported being fully vaccinated.

While this vaccination requirement applies to employees who work in agencies that report to the Mayor, which includes approximately 32,700 employees, all independent agencies are highly encouraged to adopt the requirement.

The COVID-19 vaccines remain a critical tool for saving lives, reducing the severity of the illness in infected people, and stopping the spread of COVID-19. Severe illness from COVID-19 is rare in fully vaccinated people. From January 2021 when less than 1% of the total DC population was fully vaccinated to June 2021 when over 50% of the total DC population was fully vaccinated, DC has seen a 95% decline in COVID-related deaths.

Additionally, last month, Mayor Bowser and DC Health released comprehensive data about breakthrough COVID-19 cases in DC that underscores the effectiveness of the vaccines in preventing illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19. Current data shows that of the approximately 300,000 fully vaccinated individuals, DC has recorded only 546 breakthrough cases, or just 0.18% of all fully vaccinated individuals.

The COVID-19 vaccines are free, highly effective, and safe. To date, more than 70% of all eligible DC residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine. Individuals who are looking for the closest site to get vaccinated can find the closest location at vaccines.gov. There are over 100 vaccination locations across the District and more than 150 testing locations in the city. 

Currently, all DC Government employees who are fully vaccinated and update their status in PeopleSoft receive an eight-hour time-off award. Additionally, all DC employees are able to use two hours of administrative leave per dose to get vaccinated.

Employees may be entitled to an accommodation on medical or religious grounds that exempts them from the vaccine requirement under certain circumstances. Employees who seek an accommodation from the vaccine requirement on medical or religious grounds must consult their agency’s Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) coordinator and each request will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

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Target Not Opening on Thanksgiving

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Just when you thought you’d be able to walk off Thanksgiving dinner at Target, the chain has had a change of heart.
Target made the announcement back in January, but many shoppers thought the retailer would have a change of heart.
In a statement, the chain says that the “positive response from being closed last Thanksgiving” led the chain to do the same this year.
As COVID-19 cases surge across the U.S., it’s believed that other retailers will nix the Black Friday tradition.
Have you started holiday shopping? Do you think Black Friday shopping is changing for better or worse?

Oakland To Honor Shock G

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The city of Oakland will honor the life of Digital Underground frontman Shock G.
A day-long celebration for the late rapper will take place on August 21 and give back to the community.
Shock’s friends and family will get together to feed 2,000 homeless community members in his honor. Afterward, a motorcade will travel to City Hall for a musical tribute to Shock G.
Shock G was 57.

Ludacris And Eudoxie Welcome Baby Girl

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A big congratulations to Ludacris and his wife, Eudoxie, on their new baby girl, Chance Oyali Bridges.
Luda posted a few photos to Instagram of his new daughter with the caption, “The Movie ‘Girls, Girls, Girls, Girls’ starring Chris Bridges coming soon.. (laughing emojis). Chance Oyali Bridges Born 7:57am 7/28/21 (praying hands emoji)”.
Luda is a father to four daughters.
Are you a “girl dad”? What’s it like being the parent of all girls? What is the best part about having all daughters?

C-Murder Hires New Legal Team Members

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In another effort to gain his freedom, No Limit rapper C-Murder has hired new members to his legal team.
C-Murder was sentenced to life in prison without parole in 2009 in connection with the murder of Steven Thomas.
After years in jail, C-Murder has added attorney Ben Crump and Ronald Haley Jr. to his legal team.
C-Murder is currently on a hunger strike to not gain his freedom and bring attention to the unfair treatment of prisoners.
Do you think C-Murder’s new legal team members will help him gain his freedom?

New Line Of Barbie Dolls Will Honor COVID-19 Frontline Workers

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Mattel’s #ThankYouHeroes campaign has launched their next phase of action figures honoring COVID-19 frontline workers.
The toy maker has produced six Barbie dolls that are based on specific healthcare workers: Amy O’Sullivan, Dr. Audrey Sue Cruz, Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa, Sarah Gilbert, Dr. Jaqueline Goes de Jesus, and Dr. Kirby White.
Mattel is donating $5.00 for each healthcare Barbie that is purchased from Target through August 28th to the First Responders Children’s Foundation.

Nikole Hannah-Jones Slams Jay-Z And Will Smith’s Rent-to-own Housing Startup As ‘Predatory’

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Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones is condemning Jay-Z and Will Smith’s investment into a rent-to-own housing startup calling it, “predatory.”

Jones tweeted, “credit counseling is not what will take low-income renters to homeowners, wealth will. All this program does is charge struggling people additional fees for being poor, which is what every other predatory lender does.”

She linked her tweet to an article about Jay-Z’s Roc Nation and Will’s Dreamers VC investing in start-up Landis Technologies.

The startup claims to help renters transition to homeownership after renting for two years and building up their credit and down payment. Landis Technologies co-founder Cyril Berdugo called Jones’ comments “false” and said, “We would love to talk to Nikole.”

Have you been a victim of predatory lending? How did it affect your life?