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Party With A Purpose

Concerts for Causes, Inc is hosting a music festival to help provide instruments to our youth

Food, Wine, and Music Festival with a purpose to help underserved youth.  That’s the driving force behind a two-day event coming up this weekend in Charles County hosted by Concerts for Causes, Inc.  My guest is Brett Murray – CEO, Concerts for Causes, Inc.

Concerts for Causes Inc. is a non-profit organization providing musical instruments to students in underserved communities. The organization is hosting Savor Maryland 2021 Food, Wine, and Music Festival August 14th and 15th from 12pm to 7pm at the Charles County Fairground. 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:

 

 

Medical Monday: COVID-19 Update

The Delta variant is causing a surge of coronavirus cases across the country. Tonight we discuss how we can stay safe and what are some of the governmental actions taking place to slow the virus?

The COVID-19 pandemic does not seem to be slowing down.  Cases are on the rise here in the DMV and across the country as the Delta variant has us on high alert, speeding up the spread of the virus.  How best can we combat the spread, and how we can stay safe?

Tonight, we bring you an update on Covid-19.

LINK:

Guest:

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

Video Shows DC Police Officer Punching Suspect

DC’s police chief, elected officials and the community react to video showing a DC police officer repeaedly punching a man while being arrested.

DC’s police chief is speaking out today after video surfaced showing a DC police officer repeatedly punching a suspect while being restrained.  The inicident happened Sunday afternoon near the Ketcham Recreation Center on U Street. Amateur video shows one officer punching the man in the face and torso as several other officers try to restrain the suspect.  Chief Rober Contee says although the man was found to be carrying a gun, recovery of the weapon was not done in the way that met department standards.  Contee says all of the officers involved in the incident have been removed from having contact with the public pending criminal and administrative investigations.  The officer who struck the suspect has been placed on administrative leave. The chief says the case has been referred to the DC Attorney Generals office.

Monica Is Working on a Country Album

R&B singer Monica says her next project will be a country album
She has been in Nashville collaborating on the project with Brandi Carlile
Monica said her love of country music was inspired by her stepfather.
She grew up inspired by Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers.
Monica was recently featured on Jimmie Allen’s Bettie James Gold Edition album. She is on the song, Pray.
What do you think of Monica’s decision to put out a country album?

RHOP: Candiace & Wendy Respond After Nicki Minaj Shades Pole Dancing Scene

It looks like Nicki Minaj is taking her possible hosting duties for the Real Housewives of Potomac reunion seriously.
Nicki was on Twitter Sunday night live tweeting when she wrote, what was that pole party giving just now, y’all?
Candiace responded, I think I did alright for never having been on a pole for real.
Wendy responded, Chyleee, I was giving absolutely nothing.
Wendy then pleaded with Nicki to not go in on her at the reunion.
Do you think Nicki should host the entire reunion of maybe just one hour of it?

De La Soul Officially Owns Their Masters

De La Soul officially owns the rights to their Masters.
This comes after the group asked fans NOT to stream their music as they were not making any money from their music.
Reservoir Media purchased Tommy Boy Records for $100 million which included the sale of the full catalog of De La Soul.
What is your favorite De La Soul album?

God Was Just In Time for Norman Hutchins and Germaine Bolds-Leftridge

https://youtu.be/rXQBJeqPyVI

God restored the sight of gospel artist Norman Hutchins and blessed entrepreneur Germaine Bolds-Leftridge.  Hutchins recently released his new song, “Just In Time” and Bolds-Leftridge released her new “I Know” skin care line.   Iknowskincare.com

 

CNN Fires Employees For Coming Into Office Unvaccinated

Contributed By Scott Lipscomb

CNN has fired three employees who violated company policy by coming to work unvaccinated against the COVID-19 virus.

CNN chief Jeff Zucker told staff members of the firing in a memo sent Thursday that reminded them that vaccines were mandatory if they report to the office or out in the field where they come into contact with other employees.

“Let me be clear — we have a zero tolerance policy on this,” wrote Zucker, chairman of news and sports for WarnerMedia.

Most of CNN’s offices are already open on a voluntary basis, and Zucker said more than a third of news staff members have returned. Proof of vaccination has been left to the honor system, he said, but that may change in coming weeks USA Today Reported.

CNN is requiring masks in indoor spaces as another precaution even with the vaccination . Even in offices where mask-wearing is not mandated, people should do what feels comfortable to them “without any fear of retaliation or judgment from co-workers,” he said.

The CNN memo also said a planned Sept. 7 company-wide return to the office will be delayed until at least early to mid-October.

Jay-Z and Kanye Team Back Up; What’s Cookin’?

Contributed By Scott Lipscomb

“Everything I do need a news crew present” is the famous line Kanye said on the song C.L.I.Q.U.E.

With the DONDA listening event last night, the last track saw Jay and Ye collaborate together. It gave a nostalgic feel as the two frequently collaborated in their careers even doing an album together.

Watch The Throne was a timeless album that Kanye West and Jay-Z gave the world in 2011. With hit songs such as “Otis”, “N* In Paris”, and “No Church In The Wild”, many critics consider it a classic.

10 years later we still are waiting for the part 2 that has been teased for years.

Prior to this year, West and Jay had last collaborated in 2016, performing on Drake’s track ‘Pop Style’. But in July, at a listening party for West’s much-delayed tenth album ‘DONDA’, he surprised attendees by playing a new collaboration with Jay, supposedly titled ‘Jail’ Pitchfork reported.

Jay references ‘Watch The Throne’ in the new track’s lyrics, rapping: “Hol’ up, Donda, I’m with your baby when I touch back road / Told him, ‘Stop all of that red cap, we goin’ home’ / Not me with all of these sins, casting stones / This might be the return of The Throne. Hova and Yeezus, like Moses and Jesus.”

While Jay-Z is on the track list for DONDA we have no official word if the two plan to release more together, for now though we are happy to see the two working together.

IMDb TV App Allows Free Movie Streaming From Phone

Contributed by Scott Lipscomb

If you enjoy watching tv or movies than IMDb has something you may like. IMDb TV is now available on iOS and Android mobile devices two years after the release of the ad-supported streaming service.

The IMDb TV app launched Tuesday for Apple’s iOS (iPhone and iPad) and Android mobile devices in the U.S. The addition of the two major mobile platforms comes after the IMDb TV app launched this year on Roku, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Android TV devices including Chromecast with Google TV, LG Smart TVs (2018-2021 models) and Sony PlayStation 4 consoles Variety reported.

In addition, IMDb TV is available as an app on Amazon’s Fire TV and as a free channel within the Prime Video app across hundreds of devices.

Amazon-owned IMDb originally launched the free service as Freedive in January 2019, before renaming it IMDb TV. The streaming service features a continually updating library of movies and TV shows, including popular titles like “Chicago Fire,” “All in the Family,” “Mad Men,” “Malcolm in the Middle,” “The Wolf of Wall Street” and “How to Train Your Dragon.” According to the company IMDb TV has half the ads of traditional linear TV.

IMDb not only hosts original shows, but also is partnered with Amazon Studios and Universal Filmed Entertainment group. Some titles include “Luke Bryan: My Dirt Road Diary” and the recently launched heist drama “Leverage: Redemption.” Other IMDb TV originals include “Alex Rider,” “Moment of Truth” and “Top Class: The Life and Times of the Sierra Canyon Trailblazers.”

Maryland Tax Free Week Aug 8 – Aug 14

Contributed By Scott Lipscomb

Shop until you drop this week as Marylanders have a full week to enjoy tax-free shopping during “Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week.”

During this week, apparel and footwear priced at $100 or less is exempt from Maryland’s 6% sales tax.

The first $40 of any backpack or bookbag purchase is also tax-free.

Some of the eligible items that sell for $100 or less include: adult diapers, aerobic clothing, arm warmers, baby clothes, diapers and diaper bags, belts, bowling attire, dry cleaning services, lab coats, lingerie, martial arts attire, pajamas, panty hose, prom dresses, suits, tuxedos (rented or purchased), swim suits and tennis clothes WTOP listed.

“Students who promote their tax-free purchases on social media could win a $1,000 or a $500 scholarship to a Maryland university, college or trade school. Students can apply by emailing a photo or short video (60 seconds or less) that shows their tax-free week purchases and their support of Maryland retailers to shopmdtaxfree@marylandtaxes.gov.”

Helping In The Fight Against Breast Cancer

Runway for a Cure is hosting it’s benefit fashion show August 21st

Taking a stand to fight breast cancer.  My guest this morning is on a mission to help raise funds and awareness.   The organization is called Runway for A Cure.  They are hosting a Fashion Show coming up August 21st.  My guest is  Raymia Henderson – CEO of Runway for A Cure

 Runway for A Cure DC is hosting its 4th Annual Fashion Show Fundraiser August 21st  at the Omni Shoreham Hotel. 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:

 

 

 

Boil Water Advisory Lifted In NE, D.C.

Water is safe to drink again in NE, D.C. Residents must first follow some instructions.

WASHINGTON, DC – (Sunday, August 8, 2021) – All DC Water customers in the impact area under the boil water advisory can use tap water for all purposes after following the instructions provided below.

DC Water issued the boil water advisory as a conservative measure to protect public health, and we sincerely appreciate our customers’ patience while we took necessary precautions to ensure the safety of the tap water we deliver.

David L. Gadis, CEO and General Manager of DC Water, said, “Protecting the health and safety of our customers is our highest priority. We understand actions like these are very disruptive, but we will always put our customers’ safety first.”

DC Water lifted the boil water advisory after tests confirmed that drinking water meets all water quality safety standards. DC Water tested water samples from multiple sites in the affected area and has verified that the there is no risk of water contamination from the loss of pressure in some portions of the distribution system. Therefore, DC Water has ended the bottled water distribution.

Please see the interactive map at www.dcwater.com or call the 24-Hour Command Center at (202) 612-3400 to verify if your address was in the affected area.

Customers residing in the previously affected area should take the following precautions before returning to normal water usage:

  • Run the cold water taps for 10 minutes (if water was not used at all during the advisory).
  • Discard food or ice prepared with water that was not boiled during the advisory.
  • Consult the owner’s manual to find out how to sanitize appliances and home filtration systems if used during the advisory.

On August 6, DC Water received one positive test from a sampling site located in the affected area. On August 7 and August 8, subsequent testing did not detect the presence of coliform bacteria contamination.

In the late afternoon of Wednesday, August 4, 2021, crews closed valves in the area of 13th Street and Spring Road, NW in an effort to isolate a leak on a 36” water transmission line to make repairs, causing low or no water pressure to area homes. System pressure was restored and the 36” water transmission line has been repaired.

Please share this information with your friends and neighbors, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this public notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.

Please read the FAQ for action following the Boil Water Advisory which is located on the website.

DC Water will work with customers to answer questions and respond to additional issues following the Boil Water Advisory. Customers with water quality questions should contact the Drinking Water Division at (202) 612-3440 (Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)

All other questions or suggestions should be directed to DC Water Customer Service at 202-354-3600 (Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.) or the 24-Hour Command Center at (202) 612-3400. Information is also available at www.dcwater.com and FAQs are provided at dcwater.com/BWAliftFAQ.

How Black Are You?

Have you ever had your blackness questioned? 

How black are you?  Have you ever had your blackness questioned?  Have you ever questioned someone elses blackness?  What does that even mean?  Did you ever say “take my black card” because you don’t fit a black stereotype? Actor Alfonso Ribeiro… also know as Carlton Banks from “The Fresh Prince of Belair” sitcom said he felt ostracized from the black community because of typecasting.

Damon Young, Culture Critic, Author

Pastor Arrested On Assault Charges

Police believe there may be more victims in the community

(Hyattsville, MD) — A 37-year-old pastor in Montgomery County is under arrest and charged with assaulting two churchgoers. Police say Erick Odir Vidal Fuentes is accused of sexually assaulting two female members of his congregation. Fuentes was pastor at Iglesia Pentecostal Church located in the 75-hundred block of New Hampshire Avenue. He is facing charges of second-degree rape, fourth-degree sexual offense and second-degree assault. Police believe there may be more victims in the community and are asking anyone who may have been a victim to step forward and contact police.

Spirit CEO: “Not Our Proudest Moment”

As of this morning, at least a third of scheduled flights were cancelled.

(Miramar, FL) — After days of cancellations and throngs of angry customers crowding airport terminals, Spirit Airlines CEO Ted Christie says it hasn’t been the company’s proudest moment. He blamed more than 17-hundred cancellations on bad weather and staffing issues. The airline has cancelled more than half of its flights in the past three days and it’s not over yet. As of this morning, at least a third of scheduled flights were cancelled.

A Serenade “Lesson” with Eric Roberson

“All things at their perfect time. Trust the process!” Eric Roberson

https://youtu.be/H-FNEgVzuEw

When it comes to creativity, Eric Roberson received more than his fair share. He shared so much of that with us on HUR@Home tonight. Wow!

He even breaks down his improvisational style that he’s known for during many of his concerts.

Press play to be apart of the conversation / mini-concert. Might I add, he’s got the best backgrounds that I’ve seen. You’ll see what I mean.

Rihanna, Beyonce and Oprah Top Forbes’ America’s Richest Self-Made Women List

Contributed by Scott Lipscomb

Girl power just took on a new meaning!

Forbes has released the list of America’s richest self-made women and some are names you ay know, others may surprise you. According to the list, 26 of the 100 ladies featured are now billionaires and two-thirds are founders or co-founders of a company. In addition to that, 26 women are CEOs and 15 are newcomers to this exclusive club.

TV personality/businesswoman Oprah Winfrey comes in at number 12 with a reported net worth of $2.7 billion. The Mississippi native is an actress, author, investor, and network owner.

Rihanna is listed as the 16th richest self-made woman with a net worth of $1.7 billion. Rihanna who recently became a billionaire this year, she is a former singer and now has her own makeup and lingerie lines.

Beyoncé Knowles-Carter comes in at the 73rd spot with a net worth of $440 million. She is one of the biggest musical artist in the world.

Other names such as Dolly Parton, Kim Kardashian-West, Ellen DeGeneres, and Madonna also made the list.

Bill Bellamy Talks Janet Jackson Rumors

Bill Bellamy is speaking out about the rumors between him and Janet Jackson.
“She booty called me,” Bellamy said jokingly during the People in the 90s podcast. “We never dated. We just skirted around it. We were like cats that just purred around each other.”
He did admit the two had a spark and chemistry between the two, which was evident when he would interview her as a VJ on MTV.
Do you think Bill and Janet would’ve been a cute couple? Were you aware of any rumors about Bill Bellamy and Janet Jackson?

Don’t Turn On Your Dehumidifier Until You Read This

More than 2 million dehumidifiers sold between 2009 and 2017 have been recalled after a number of them have overheated and burst into flames.
That’s according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, which reports fires caused by the overheating units have already caused more than $17 million in damages.
The dehumidifiers, which were manufactured by New Widetech, were sold by a number of retailers under well-known brand news like Amana and Honeywell, the commission reports. For a full list of the recalled models, visit NewWideTech.com.
Do you think most people with recalled items ever hear they’ve been recalled?

Kanye West Fans Were Offered COVID-19 Vaccines at Second ‘Donda’ Listening Party

Fans of Kanye West descended upon the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta for a second “Donda” listening party and before they previewed the tracks, fans were able to get a COVID-19 vaccine.

The stadium tweeted information about how and where to get the vaccine prior to the start of the event.

West suffered from COVID back in the Fall, his estranged wife, Kim Kardashian opened up about caring for Kanye during an October interview.

“It was so scary and unknown. I had my four babies and no one else in the house to help,” Kim recalled.

How was it caring for a loved one with COVID or what was your COVID experience like?

Men’s Health and Prostate Cancer

Discussing why men should be proactive in getting regular check ups which include a prostate check for cancer

This morning we’re talking about men’s health with a focus on Prostate Cancer.  Prostate Cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer deaths among men in America and the numbers of men of color are higher than those of white men.  My guest will be Dr. Kaiser Robertson – Urologist with Chesapeake Urology Assoc.  He will be discussing the importance of regular screenings for prostate cancer how it can save lives if caught early.  He will also talk about the variety of treatment options available.

For information on where to go for question on prostate cancer, the support systems and treatment options:

Go here:

or go here:

or 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 segments here:

Part 1:

 

Part 2:

 

Part 3:

 

 

What NOT to Say When You Return to Work

We’re trying to keep you from making a trip to the human resources office.

 A lot of you will be heading back to the office soon if you’re not there already.  That means there are changes ahead.  Some of those changes have less to do with health and safety and more to do with how you interact with your coworkers.  Are there some things you’ve said in the past, you thought were harmeless, that need to be changed?  We’re trying to keep you from making a trip to the human resources office… virtually or worse.

Dr. Vanessa Weaver, CEO, Alignment Strategies

Shawn Talley, Human Resources Expert

Boil Water Advisory in NE DC

Includes Brookland, Edgewood, Fort Lincoln, Michigan Park, Queens Chapel, North Michigan Park and Woodbridge.

(Washington, DC) — Several neighborhoods in Northeast are now under a boil advisory. D.C. Water issued the advisory for areas that include Brookland, Edgewood, Fort Lincoln, Michigan Park, Queens Chapel, North Michigan Park and Woodbridge. Impacted customers should boil their water for drinking and cooking. D.C. Water will keep the advisory in place until testing shows the water is safe to drink, but they anticipate it being lifted by Saturday.

D.C. Attorney General Demands Worker Vaccines

All employees will be required to show proof of vaccination before returning to the workplace in mid-September.

(Washington, DC) — If you work in the Office of the Attorney General in D.C. you will need to get your COVID-19 vaccination. Attorney General Karl Racine is mandating every worker in the office get vaccinated against the virus. The policy includes all workers, contractors, and interns in the office, except for individuals with a religious, medical, or emergency use exemption. Racine’s policy comes as COVID cases are on the rise in the D.C. area. All employees will be required to show proof of vaccination before returning to the workplace in mid-September.

Karl Racine, DC Attorney General

Jennifer Hudson Honors Aretha Franklin At Detroit Historical Museum

Contributed by Scott Lipscomb

R E S P E C T! The famous words from the late Aretha Franklin! She was honored in Detroit this weekend by some of Hollywood’s stars.

A grand unveiling of the Queen of Soul’s handprints in Legends Plaza was the main topic of conversation at the temporary commemorative exhibit on Franklin’s life. The prints were first created during the 2017 dedication ceremony of Aretha Franklin Way in her hometown of Detroit. The music icon is the 31st person to have her handprints included in the Plaza.

Aretha Franklin died in 2018 after a battle with pancreatic cancer at the age of 76.

“Legends Plaza stands as a testament to the worldwide contributions of Detroiters,” Elana Rugh, Detroit Historical Society president and CEO, said in a statement, according to The Detroit News. “We are proud that Ms. Franklin chose to add to her legacy with a permanent display on our plaza at the Detroit Historical Museum, and we couldn’t imagine a more appropriate space for her handprints to be accessible to her fans from Detroit and across the globe.”

Respect director Liesl Tommy and award-winning singer-actress Jennifer Hudson, who portrays Aretha Franklin in the film, both attended the event as well as Kecalf Franklin, Aretha’s son. The highly-anticipated biopic will release in theaters on Aug. 13 and will also star Forest Whitaker as C.L. Franklin, Audra McDonald as Barbara Franklin, Marlon Wayans as Ted White, Tituss Burgess as Reverend Dr. James Cleveland and others.

“We are grateful that everybody is recognizing her and her accomplishments in life,” Kecalf said.

The exhibit features mementos and artifacts from Aretha’s career including album covers, jaw-dropping performance dresses, and more.

Angela Bassett is TV’s Highest-Paid Woman of Color Drama Actor

Angela Bassett broke a huge barrier for all women of color.
She has officially become the highest-paid actress of color for a tv drama series.
She will receive over $450,000 per episode of the 9-1-1 tv series.
‘9-1-1: Lone Star’ is executive produced by Angela Bassett, which she also stars in.
Season 5 of the show will premiere on September 20 on Fox.
Angela Bassett is joined on this highest-paid list by Viola Davis, Kerry Washington, and Chandra Wilson.
Who is your favorite actress in a tv series? What was your favorite movie that Angela Bassett was in?

NY Governor Asking All Businesses To Switch To “Vaccine-Only Admission”

Contributed By Scott Lipscomb

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is asking private business to implement a policy for only vaccinated patrons to shop in their stores.

“Private businesses, I am asking them and suggesting to them: Go to vaccine-only admission. Go to vaccine-only admission. We did this, Radio City Music Hall, months ago. Reopened vaccine-only, sold out all the shows. Sports arenas. They went up to about 90 percent vaccine-only. Private businesses, bars, restaurants. Go to a vaccine-only admission. I believe it’s in your best business interest,” Cuomo said during a news conference the Hill reported.

“If you say to people, ‘Well, if you don’t have a vaccine, you can’t get into these establishments,’ then you will see a real incentive to get vaccinated,” he said.

Cummo has urged local governments across the country to strongly encourage mask use even for vaccinated residents.

“Cuomo’s push comes as the country is seeing a spike in COVID-19 cases, driven largely by the highly infectious delta variant that has become the dominant strain in the U.S.

The number of New Yorkers who tested positive for COVID-19 slightly increased in the past five days, before falling on Sunday to 2,516 people, according to the state’s COVID-19 tracker.”

“What does that mean? Well, we’ve taken the first step [as a state] … which is you either have to get a vaccine or a weekly test. That’s the first step, but it’s only the first. And that I believe we need to expand,” Cuomo said.

The governor last month announced that New York will require state employees to be vaccinated or get tested weekly, starting Sept. 6, Reuters reported.

He said that while the policy is “controversial,” he thinks it “should be extended” to other public hospitals.

Da Brat Says Being Gay in Hip-Hop’s Getting Easier

Da Brat Says Being Gay in Hip-Hop’s Getting Easier Da Brat says that despite DaBaby’s recent homophobic rant, being gay in Hip-Hop is getting easier.  While talking to TMZ, she said the vibe these days when someone comes out as gay versus back when she was coming up in the industry is totally different.  She said back then, artists could lose everything just for coming out. Now, she has the courage to be herself.  Da Brat first came out publically in 2020.  What are other ways Hip-Hop has changed or evolved?

Miley Cyrus DMs DaBaby Offering To School Him on Recent Homophobic Rant

Miley Cyrus has reached out to assist in educating DaBaby
She shard the news with fans and wrote, “As a proud and loyal member of the LGBTQ+ community, much of my life has been dedicated to encouraging love, acceptance, and open-mindedness. The internet can fuel a lot of hate & anger and is the nucleus of cancel culture .. but I believe it can be a place filled with education, conversation, communication & connection.”
She added, “It’s easier to cancel someone than to find forgiveness and compassion in ourselves or take the time to change hearts and minds. There’s no more room for division if we want to keep seeing progress. Knowledge is power.”
Do you think Miley did the right thing?

Kandi’s Restaurant Receives Another C Rating by Health Inspector

It looks like Kandi Burruss’s Old Lady Gang restaurant is dealing with some sanitation drama.
The spot has once again gotten a C rating by the health inspector.
In June, the health inspector found several violations and gave the dining location a C rating.
They followed back up a few weeks later and gave the same rating.
According to documents, staff was not taking steps to “prevent illness by having repeated risk factors and good retail practice violations.”
They got dinged on things like food being stored wrong, cleaning solution not being mixed well, and food not having proper labels.
Would you still eat at Old Lady Gang?

Yelp Lets Businesses List if They Require Proof of Vaccination

Before going out, you can now go on Yelp and find out the vaccination policy of the business you are going to.
You will be able to see if customers are required to show proof of vaccination.
You will also see if employees are required to be vaccinated.
These are optional and only the business owner can add these to their profile

Starbucks To Raise Starting Barista Wages To $12 Per Hour

Starbucks is raising their starting wage in all markets for baristas to at least $12 an hour.
The wage increase will be up to or above $15 in some areas.
Starbucks will also increase the wages of hourly employees hired on or before July 2021 by 5% in October.
Tenured employees will see a 6% wage increase.
What is your favorite Starbucks drink?

Boil Water Alert Issued for Parts of NE DC

DC Water issues a boil water advisory for Northeast DC. For more information, visit www.dcwater.com

(WASHINGTON, DC)  DC Water has issued a Boil Water Advisory for portions of Northeast due to the possibility of elevated levels of E. coli/coliform bacteria.  Impacted areas are Edwood, Brookland, Fort Lincoln, Woodridge, Queens Chapel, Michigan Park, and North Michigan.  Residents and businesses can learn more about impacted areas by using DC Water’s interactive map found here and at dcwater.com. Those who do not have internet access can call DC Water’s 24-Hour Command Center (202) 612-3400. 

More information about the Boil Water Advisory can be found at dcwater.com

DC Water advises customers in the impacted area to follow the guidance below until the advisory is lifted:

•    Discard any beverages and ice made before and during this advisory.
•    Run cold water until clear (if discolored) prior to boiling.
•    Run cold water for 2 minutes if known sources of lead are present prior to boiling.
•    Bring water to a rolling boil for 1 minute and let it cool.
•    Store cooled water in a clean, covered container.

Cooled, boiled water or bottled water should be used for:

•    Drinking
•    Brushing teeth
•    Preparing and cooking food
•    Washing fruits and vegetables
•    Preparing infant formula
•    Making ice
•    Giving water to pets

*Do not use home filtering devices in place of boiled or bottled water.

The Boil Water Advisory will be lifted when tests on two consecutive days show no bacteria are present and all customers can continue normal water use, which DC Water anticipates will be on Saturday, August 7.

A Weekend of Jazz

Jazz on the Narrows is Friday, August 13th thru Sunday, August 15th.

Great music and a beautiful scenic backdrop.  That’s what we’re spotlighting this morning on Taking It to the Streets.  The daughter of Jazz legend Muddy Waters is presenting what she’s calling “Jazz on the Narrows” next weekend and I have the details of this inaugural musical event you don’t want to miss.  My guest is Mercy Morganfield – Daughter of Muddy Waters and founder of Jazz On the Narrows

Jazz on the Narrows presented by Muddy Waters’ daughter is Friday, August 13th thru Sunday, August 15th at the Kent Island Yacht Club at 117 Yacht Club Drive in Chester, 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.

 

Reporters’ Roundtable

Analysis of the top stories of the week.

We’re at the Reporters’ Roundtable and as always, we have a lot to discuss.  On deck, the sexual harassment scandal of New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in the U.S. and shortages around the world, rising homicide rates and the retur of Simone Biles.

Charles Ellison, Editor, The BE Note
Ebony McMorris, White House Correspondent, American Urban Radio Network

 

Majority of NY Assembly Would Oust Cuomo If He Doesn’t Quit

Cuomo denies that he made any inappropriate sexual advances

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — A majority of state Assembly members support beginning impeachment proceedings against Gov. Andrew Cuomo if he doesn’t resign over investigative findings that he sexually harassed at least 11 women. That’s according to an Associated Press count Wednesday. At least 82 of the body’s 150 members have said publicly or told The AP that they favored initiating the process of ousting the third-term Democratic governor if he doesn’t quit. Cuomo denies that he made any inappropriate sexual advances and insists the investigative findings don’t reflect the facts. A simple majority of Assembly members is needed to authorize an impeachment trial.

No More Native American Headdresses, Face Paint At WFT Stadium

Meantime, masks are recommended, but not mandated, for those who haven’t gotten a coronavirus vaccine.

(Landover, MD) — Fans of the Washington Football Team will no longer be allowed to wear Native American inspired headdresses or face paint. The team made the announcement as it gets ready to welcome fans back to FedExField this season. It had previously changed its name from the Washington Redskins to the Washington Football Team after years of controversy. Meantime, masks are recommended, but not mandated, for those who haven’t gotten a coronavirus vaccine.

Celebrating 100 Years

The Negro League Hall of Fame celebrates it’s 100th Anniversary this Saturday August 7th.

We’re talking baseball this morning and a big historic celebration coming up marking the Negro League Hall of Fame.  They are celebrating their 100th year Anniversary  and I have the details of how you can be a part of marking this great milestone.  My guest is Dwayne Renal Sims – Founder of the Negro League Hall of Fame

The Negro League Hall of Fame is celebrating their 100th year Anniversary Ball Game Saturday August 7th at 1pm at the Prince George’s Bowie Baysox Stadium in Bowie.

 

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:

Making The DMV Safer

Activists and listeners share ideas about how to address violent crime

We’re listening to the community.  We want to know what you think about solutions to the region’s deadly violence. We’re also talking to some activists.

 

Kathy Henderson, Community Activist, Past ANC Commissioner, Ward 5

Kathy Henderson, Community Activist, Past ANC Commissioner, Ward 5

HUR@Home Newsmakers: Ryane Nickens of The TraRon Center

Art therapy for children traumatized by violence

This summer has seen its share of deadly gun violence.  Much of it impacting adults… but a significant bit of it has touched the youngest members of the community.  When it touches them, how do those young people address the trauma that’s left behind? Ryane Nickens has been trying to answer that question for five years.  She is the founder and president of the TraRon  Center.

https://youtu.be/Ns1K8Q2SxZ0

Breast Cancer Fundraiser, Movies @ MLK Memorial. Details Inside Community’s Choice

Are you looking for free community events in the DMV. It’s all inside WHUR’s Community’s Choice. To get your non profit on the air and web, email Renee Nash at rnash@whur.com.

Runway for A Cure

Help make breast cancer a thing of the past. Join Runway for a Cure DC for its 4th Annual Fashion Show Fundraiser August 21st at the Omni Shoreham Hotel. www.runwayforacuredc.com

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Ateya Productions

Ateya Productions is celebrating the youth of Ward 8 and needs nominations to spotlight the best and brightest for its Illuminate Your Brilliance Awards. Nominate a youth today. www.ateyaconsulting.com

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United Planning Organization

Get free financial help. The United Planning Organization’s Navigators Program is free for DC residents impacted by COVID. www.upo.org

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Housing Counseling Services

Housing Counseling Services is holding free webinars throughout the month of August for people looking to rent, buy, or keep their housing in the DMV. www.housingetc.org

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Jazz On the Narrows

Enjoy a weekend of jazz on the water. Come out to Jazz On the Narrows August 13th thru 15th at the Kent Island Yacht Club. www.eventbrite.com/jazzonthenarrows

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City Green’s Youth Start Smart

City Green’s Youth Start Smart is continuing its Bicycle Skills and Rodeo Workshops every Saturday throughout the month of August. www.citygreendc.eventbrite.com

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Memorial Foundation Summer Film Series

The movie Black Panther will be shown August 19th as part of the Memorial Foundation’s Summer Film Series. Bring a blanket and enjoy a free movie at the MLK Memorial. www.filmsatthestone.org

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

 

 

Probe: NY Gov. Cuomo Sexually Harassed Multiple Women

Cuomo remained defiant Tuesday following the investigation’s findings

NEW YORK (AP) — An investigation into New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has found that he sexually harassed multiple current and former state government employees. State Attorney General Letitia James announced the findings Tuesday. The investigation, conducted by two outside lawyers, found that the Cuomo administration was a “hostile work environment” and that it was “rife with fear and intimidation.” Cuomo faced multiple allegations last winter that he inappropriately touched and sexually harassed women who worked with him or who he met at public events. Cuomo remained defiant Tuesday following the investigation’s findings, saying that “the facts are much different than what has been portrayed” and appearing to reject calls to resign.

Mad To Glad: Cowboys’ ‘Original 88’ Pearson Savors Hall Nod

By SCHUYLER DIXON AP Pro Football Writer
DALLAS (AP) — Drew Pearson is headed to the Pro Football Hall of Fame as part of the class of 2021 after the disappointment of not getting in a year earlier. The former Dallas Cowboys receiver joins 1970s-era offensive teammates Roger Staubach and Tony Dorsett in the hall. The 70-year-old Pearson got his hopes up as a finalist for the special 13-member centennial class in 2020. He struggled to hide his anger when he was left out. All that is forgotten now that the man who caught the famous Hail Mary touchdown from Staubach in 1975 is in.

 

Air Travel Hits Another Pandemic High, Flight Delays Grow

By DAVID KOENIG AP Airlines Writer
DALLAS (AP) — It’s summertime and airports are packed with vacationers again. And combined with bad weather popping up in places, that’s causing problems for the airlines. The U.S. set another pandemic-era record for travel on Sunday, with more than 2.2 million people going through airport checkpoints. That’s the biggest number in 17 months, although travel is still not quite back to pre-pandemic levels. The big crowds and summer thunderstorms are creating headaches for travelers, because thousands of flights a day are running late, and hundreds more are canceled. There are long lines at Spirit Airlines ticket counters in Orlando, Florida, after the discount airline canceled about one-third of its flights on Monday.

1st Cruise Ship Docks In Puerto Rico Since Pandemic Began

By DÁNICA COTO Associated Press
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — The Carnival Mardi Gras has docked in Puerto Rico — the first cruise ship to visit the U.S. territory since the pandemic began.  Some cautiously celebrated Tuesday’s visit. The ship arrives as Puerto Rico is reporting an increase in COVID-19 cases blamed on the Delta variant, but also as it seeks to restart its tourism sector, which depended on record numbers of cruise ship passengers visiting in recent years. The executive director of Puerto Rico’s Tourism Company tells The Associated Press that the government has taken precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including allowing only the fully vaccinated to disembark.

Lockdown at Pentagon Lifted following Shooting Nearby

Pentagon was placed on lockdown for several hours after a shooting near the Pentagon Metro Station.

UPDATE – (Tuesday, August 3, 2021) – A shooting at the Pentagon Metro Station sent the Pentagon in lockdown today.  Details are still very sketchy.  But as many as three people are reported injured, including a police officer.  Roads around the area are closed off.  Metro is diverting buses and Metrorail is bypassing the station.  But the lockdown has been lifted.

No word on a gunman or the conditions of those injured.  Arlington County police are set to provide an update soon.

‘The Chi’ Has Been Renewed

Showtime has renewed the popular series The Chi for a fifth season.
News of the renewal came just a few hours after Sunday’s season four finale.
Season four of the show dealt with community policing on The Southside and received consistently high ratings in its time slot.
The Lena Waithe created and executive-produced series will come back for season five in 2022.
Who is your favorite character on The Chi? What is it about The Chi that you like so much?

Disney Requiring US Employees To Be Vaccinated Against Virus

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — The Walt Disney Company is joining other large companies in requiring employees to get vaccinated against COVID-19. The company is requiring all salaried and non-union hourly employees in the U.S. who work on site to be fully vaccinated. It says employees who aren’t already vaccinated will have 60 days to do so, and those still working from home will need to show proof of vaccination before returning. The announcement comes days after the federal Centers for Disease Control changed course on masking guidelines. The CDC recently said it has new information showing the delta variant’s ability to spread among vaccinated people.

Trader Joe’s Is Discontinuing These 6 Items

Some bad news if you’re a big fan of these Trader Joe’s items.
The store chain is looking to discontinue six of their regular items, according to Instagram account @traderjoestobediscontinued.
For food items, the store will stop selling their Caramel Popcorn, Jackfruit Crabless Cakes, their Legendary Nut & Berry Mix, and their Soy & Flaxseed Tortilla Chips.
They’ll also be discontinuing their Korean Roasted Barley Tea from their beverages and their Blueberry Acai Facial Scrub from their skincare section.
Do you love any of these products from Trader Joe’s? What do you always have to grab when you visit Trader Joe’s?