What You Need To Know

Urban One Podcast Network
Urban One Podcast Network
  • 4.9 (30)
  • Daily News
  • Daily

Everyday, Sybil Wilkes gives you "What You Need To Know."

  1. 2d ago

    WHAT WE NEED TO KNOW: OCOTOBER 30, 2026

    Former President Obama knocked the White House response to his Cheesecake Factory jab at President Trump, calling the administration "not serious people." Campaigning in Georgia for Senator Jon Ossoff and Keisha Lance Bottoms, Obama said officials mounted a government-wide response to a joke, not to inflation, though many families can barely afford to eat out. He had joked Trump's $900 million renovations made the White House look like Saddam Hussein opened a Cheesecake Factory. David Crowley is leading Wisconsin's governor's race, but growing Black political fatigue could threaten it. Polls and voter interviews suggest Crowley may struggle to reach the Black support Democrats usually need to win the divided battleground state. Some Black Milwaukee voters say Democrats have taken their votes for granted for years, voting Democrat simply to keep Republicans out rather than because support was earned. Brennan Williams turned a passion for lemonade that began at age 9 into Brennan's Lemonade, perfecting his "Premium Blend" over years before bottling it in 2021. The Louisiana business is now in 11 stores, and Williams, a junior at Southeastern Louisiana University, plans to bring it to airports next. He says persistence is key, using failures as motivation. Fifteen-year-old Phillip Mullin of Alexandria, Louisiana, rang the bell at Manning Family Children's Hospital in New Orleans after a treatment his team called a functional cure for sickle cell disease. Hospitalized more than 100 times, he became Louisiana's first pediatric patient to receive the LYFGENIA gene therapy, and the second person in the state to get it. Sickle cell affects about 100,000 Americans, disproportionately Black Americans. On October 30, 1979, Richard Arrington was elected the first African American mayor of Birmingham, Alabama. His run followed the killing of 20-year-old Bonita Carter, shot by a Birmingham police officer though she had committed no crime; a citizen review board ruled the shooting justified. Carter's death changed Birmingham politics and pushed Arrington to run for mayor. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  2. 3d ago

    WHAT WE NEED TO KNOW: OCTOBER 29, 2026

    1. History is on the line in this year's Senate races: since 1789, only one of every 400 U.S. senators has been a Black woman. Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland and Lisa Blunt Rochester of Delaware recently became the first two Black women to serve at the same time. Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton is set to join them, and if Florida's Angie Nixon wins, four Black women would serve together.2. Black farmer Jamie Davis is running to become Louisiana's next U.S. senator, traveling farm to farm to shake hands with voters. The Democrat from Waterproof is challenging Representative Julia Letlow, who has President Trump's endorsement. If Davis wins, he would be the first Black person to hold the seat since P.B.S. Pinchback, who was elected in 1873 but never allowed to take it.3. The cost of the Iran war to American taxpayers has grown to an estimated $47.1 billion. The Pentagon's latest figure to Congress, as of October 16, is up $3.5 billion since early September, and the cost has become a key issue in the midterm elections. With the war now eight months old, most voters say they want Congress to prioritize ending it.4. Beyoncé's BeyGOOD Foundation has awarded $25,000 to Camp HBCYouth, a summer camp that introduces young children to HBCUs. The seven-week program has served 2,000 children in kindergarten through fifth grade, with HBCU students and alumni as mentors, and partners including Spelman, Morehouse, Clark Atlanta and Tennessee State. Founder Reagan Fresnel says the grant will put more children on HBCU campuses and keep the camp affordable for families.5. On October 29, 1969, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Alexander v. Holmes County Board of Education that school segregation had to end "at once," replacing Brown v. Board's "all deliberate speed." The case was led by Beatrice Alexander Ross, a Mississippi ninth grader. Her stand forced Southern districts into immediate desegregation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  3. 4d ago

    WHAT WE NEED TO KNOW: OCTOBER 28, 2026

    1. Angie Nixon Urges National Investment in Southern Black Voters Florida Democratic Senate nominee Angie Nixon is calling on national party leadership to increase investments in Southern races and stop taking Black voters for granted as a guaranteed constituency. Nixon expressed frustration among grassroots organizers and community members who feel the political establishment often seeks Black labor without supporting Black leadership. Her remarks reflect a broader push ahead of the midterm elections for sustained campaign funding and genuine engagement across Southern battleground states. 2. Alabama Senate Nominee Everett Wess Navigates Uphill Campaign Democratic nominee Everett Wess is mounting an uphill campaign for the U.S. Senate in Alabama, seeking to become the state’s first Democrat elected to the upper chamber in a general election in over three decades. Facing Republican nominee Barry Moore, Wess contends with significant fundraising disparities and limited national party investment in a reliably conservative state. Despite facing long odds, Wess remains committed to grassroots voter outreach, focusing his platform on local economic concerns and the needs of working families. 3. Regulators and 20 States Sue Dollar General Over Deceptive Pricing Federal consumer protection regulators alongside twenty states filed a joint lawsuit against Dollar General, alleging long-running deceptive pricing practices at stores nationwide. The complaint states that the discount chain routinely charged shoppers higher amounts at checkout registers than the prices displayed on shelves and in promotional ads. Officials emphasized that failing to correct these known pricing discrepancies causes significant financial harm to working-class families and low-income communities trying to make every dollar count. 4. Viral Outpouring Supports 3-Year-Old Soccer Phenom After League Incident A viral video sparked widespread public support for three-year-old Nevada after local police were summoned to a Florida youth soccer game where the toddler was dominating play and scoring repeatedly. The organization subsequently removed the child from the league and issued a refund to his parents, sparking national conversation around youth athletic policies. Children’s educator Ms. Rachel stepped into the situation on social media, encouraging professional soccer players to rally around the toddler with positive mentorship and memorable experiences. 5. Black and Missing: Samuel Spencer Jr. Samuel Spencer Jr., 20, has been missing from Mobile, Alabama since October 16, 2026; his car was found abandoned on the Cochrane Bridge, still running, with his wallet, ID, and phone inside. His family later got a threatening text from someone claiming to have him. He is Black, medium complexion, 5-foot-8, 150 pounds, short black hair, brown eyes — call Mobile Police at 251-208-7211 or BAMFI at 877-97-BAMFI. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  4. 5d ago

    WHAT WE NEED TO KNOW: OCTOBER 27, 2026

    1. Abdul El-Sayed Mobilizes Black Voter Support in Detroit Campaign Stop Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed campaigned alongside Detroit civic officials, labor leaders, and community organizers to solidify support among Black voters ahead of the midterm election. Facing Republican nominee Mike Rogers in a high-stakes contest that could determine the balance of power in the U.S. Senate, El-Sayed highlighted his track record as Detroit’s former health director. Community leaders emphasized his long-standing work advancing public health initiatives, educational equity, economic opportunity, and voting rights protections across the city. 2. Teen Suspect Charged as Adult in Tallahassee Mass Shooting A fifteen-year-old suspect faces eleven counts of attempted second-degree murder and one count of unlawful firearm possession after a weekend shooting near Florida A&M University's football stadium left eleven people wounded. Authorities confirmed that the suspect will be charged as an adult and ordered held in custody following a detention hearing. Investigators determined that a physical altercation between acquaintances preceded the gunfire, noting that none of the injured bystanders appeared to be the intended targets. 3. Balancing Business Growth with Strategic Tax Planning Growing service enterprises frequently direct substantial capital toward marketing, branding, and customer acquisition while neglecting proactive tax strategies. Postponing strategic tax planning can lead to hundreds of thousands of dollars in missed deductions and eroded profits over multiple fiscal years. Establishing tax strategy as a foundational component of a company’s financial infrastructure enables business owners to protect their cash flow and retain more of the wealth they generate. 4. Maryland Driver Uncovers Winning Lottery Ticket in Sun Visor A Maryland motorist experienced an unexpected windfall after discovering a forgotten lottery ticket tucked away in his car's sun visor. After purchasing the ticket earlier in the month and losing track of it, the slip fell directly into his lap while he was stopped at a local gas station weeks later. Upon checking the numbers through the state lottery app, the driver discovered his casual purchase had yielded a significant winning payout. 5. Know Our History: Celebrating GPS Pioneer Dr. Gladys Mae West Born on October 27, 1930, in Sutherland, Virginia, Dr. Gladys Mae West overcame rural poverty and Jim Crow barriers to become a groundbreaking mathematician and technological trailblazer. After graduating as high school valedictorian and earning advanced mathematics degrees from Virginia State University, she joined the Naval Surface Warfare Center in 1956 as only its fourth Black employee. West performed intricate calculations and programmed early supercomputers to model the precise geodetic shape of the Earth, creating the mathematical foundation that made the modern Global Positioning System possible. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  5. 6d ago

    WHAT WE NEED TO KNOW: OCTOBER 26, 2026

    1. Barack Obama Rallies Midwest Democrats, Criticizes Campaign Rhetoric Former President Barack Obama campaigned across Ohio and Michigan, urging voters to reject divisive rhetoric and mobilize for the midterm elections. Speaking in Cleveland, Obama denounced personal attacks leveled against Ohio gubernatorial nominee Dr. Amy Acton before traveling to Detroit to rally support behind Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed. 2. Mass Shooting Following FAMU Homecoming Leaves 12 Injured A mass shooting outside Bragg Memorial Stadium following Florida A&M University’s homecoming game left twelve people injured, including six children. Eleven victims sustained gunshot wounds, with three suffering serious injuries and one remaining in critical condition. Authorities are investigating the tragic shooting as the campus and local community work to support the affected families. 3. FDA Announces Massive Nationwide Toothpaste Recall Over four million tubes of toothpaste sold nationwide under the Brush Buddies, Evo, and ARU brand names have been recalled by manufacturer Pritam International Private Limited. The FDA designated the voluntary action as a Class II recall following deviations from Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP) standards, warning that use of the products could cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences. The recall affects 17 different product lines—ranging from children's flavored toothpastes to whitening formulas—with specific lot numbers and expiration dates detailed in the FDA's official enforcement report. 4. Ministry Monday: Finding Lifelong Refuge in God This week’s reflection highlights God as an enduring refuge and source of strength during seasons of distress and uncertainty. Drawing from Psalms and Proverbs, the message reminds believers that faith, scripture, and prayer offer complete protection from fear. Leaning on divine guidance enables believers to navigate challenges with steadfast peace. 5. Know Our History: Celebrating Gospel Icon Mahalia Jackson October 26 marks the birth anniversary of Mahalia Jackson, born in 1911 and revered as the "Queen of Gospel Music." A powerhouse vocalist and vital figure in the Civil Rights Movement, Jackson was a close confidante of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. At the 1963 March on Washington, her prompt from behind the podium to "tell them about the dream" inspired King's iconic, improvised address. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  6. Oct 23

    WHAT WE NEED TO KNOW: OCTOBER 23, 2026

    1. Hakeem Jeffries Rallies Support as Midterm Elections Approach House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries is campaigning across more than 50 cities as Democrats work to win back majority control of the House of Representatives in the upcoming midterm elections. Speaking at a community church gathering in Ohio, Jeffries expressed strong confidence in the party's momentum and the broader mission to bring about national progress. If Democrats secure the majority and elect him to the post, Jeffries would make history as the first African American Speaker of the House. 2. Pentagon Officially Acknowledges Fallen Black National Guard Officer The Pentagon updated its official casualty records to formally count Major Sorffly Davius among the military service members who have died in connection with Middle East operations. Davius, a communications and signals officer with the New York Army National Guard, passed away in March while serving on duty in Kuwait. The update brings the official military death toll to 21 following months of public scrutiny over delayed tracking and omitted non-combat casualties. 3. New Initiative Spotlights Veteran-Owned Businesses in DeKalb County Economic development organization Decide DeKalb launched a new campaign to expand visibility and commercial opportunities for veteran-owned enterprises across DeKalb County, Georgia. The county is currently accepting submissions for its upcoming Veteran-Owned Business Guide, scheduled for publication ahead of Veterans Day to connect local entrepreneurs with residents and business partners. The initiative builds upon previous directories dedicated to Black-owned and women-owned companies, supporting hundreds of veteran employers across the community. 4. Exonerated Quilt Artist Gary Tyler Debuts First Solo Museum Exhibition After spending more than four decades wrongfully incarcerated, 68-year-old textile artist Gary Tyler is showcasing his first solo museum exhibition at the Grand Rapids Art Museum in Michigan. Originally sentenced to death at age 17 amid racial tensions surrounding school integration in Louisiana, Tyler developed his celebrated quilting practice while behind bars before winning his freedom. His intricate fabric works transform personal photographs, prison memories, and themes of resilience into internationally recognized fine art. 5. Know Our History: The NAACP Presents 'An Appeal to the World' to the United Nations On October 23, 1947, the NAACP formally delivered a landmark human rights petition titled "An Appeal to the World" to the United Nations. Drafted and edited by renowned sociologist W.E.B. Du Bois alongside prominent legal scholars, the historic document exposed the widespread disenfranchisement, racial violence, and systemic inequality endured by Black Americans. By presenting domestic racial injustice before an international assembly, the petition set a powerful precedent that framed the American civil rights struggle as an urgent global human rights issue. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  7. Oct 22

    WHAT WE NEED TO KNOW: OCTOBER 22, 2026

    1. Eagles Quarterback Jalen Hurts Sidelined by Pulmonary Blood Clots Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is facing a serious health challenge after being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis and blood clots in both lungs. Medical personnel confirmed that Hurts remains in stable condition and is expected to make a complete recovery, though treatment protocols will sideline him from contact sports for the remainder of the season. The diagnosis highlights the importance of recognizing the symptoms of blood clots and seeking prompt medical attention, even among elite athletes in peak physical condition. 2. Justin Pearson Mounts Congressional Campaign in Redrawn Tennessee District Tennessee Democratic state representative Justin Pearson is actively campaigning for Congress following recent legislative redistricting that combined parts of Memphis with fourteen rural counties. Despite the district leaning heavily conservative in recent election cycles, national campaign committees added Pearson’s bid to their targeted races, delivering organizational backing and strategic resources. Pearson remains focused on grassroots organizing, emphasizing economic fairness and accountable representation across both urban and rural communities. 3. Rising Utility Rates Force Families to Cut Back on Household Essentials Electricity rates across major metropolitan areas have surged 14% over the past three years, exacerbating financial strain for millions of American households already managing high fuel and energy costs. New consumer research indicates that one in five Americans has been forced to reduce spending on groceries and discretionary necessities simply to keep up with monthly utility bills. Rising food, electricity, and transportation expenses continue to represent primary financial concerns for families navigating persistent cost-of-living challenges. 4. Quick-Thinking Bystander Rescues Students and Driver from Runaway Bus Twenty-seven-year-old Ebro Ahmed is being celebrated for his heroic actions after stopping a runaway school bus carrying nearly twenty children in Minnesota. After noticing the bus moving with its doors open and seeing the driver incapacitated by a sudden medical emergency, Ahmed sprinted toward the vehicle, leaped inside, and engaged the emergency brake seconds before an accident occurred. His immediate intervention and composure prevented a severe collision and ensured the safety of every student onboard. 5. Know Our History: Black Charleston Tobacco Workers Launch Historic Strike On October 22, 1945, more than 1,000 predominantly Black workers walked off the job at the American Tobacco cigar factory in Charleston, South Carolina, launching a pivotal labor strike. The workers organized collectively to demand non-discrimination clauses in hiring and firing, paid medical benefits, wage increases, and union representation. Their courageous stand became a landmark milestone where organized labor and the early civil rights movement united to challenge systemic economic inequality in the Jim Crow South. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  8. Oct 21

    WHAT WE NEED TO KNOW: OCTOBER 21, 2026

    1. Black Conservative Influencer Removed from Texas Campaign Event A Black conservative social media influencer reported being removed without explanation from a Texas campaign event for Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton. Thelma Louise, who produces political commentary on TikTok, stated she was escorted off the premises after being informed the campaign manager requested her departure. The removal took place despite Louise traveling several hours to support the rally and having previously held official press credentials for the state party's summer convention. 2. Ohio Gubernatorial Candidate Amy Acton Condemns Opponent Over Campaign Video Democratic candidate for Ohio governor Dr. Amy Acton publicly denounced a campaign advertisement featuring her estranged biological mother speaking against her candidacy. Acton clarified that she has had no contact with her mother since 1978, following childhood sexual abuse by her stepfather that resulted in criminal charges. She strongly criticized her political opponent for exploiting an elderly, unwell family member with whom she has been separated for nearly five decades. 3. Nearly 1.6 Million Pounds of Ready-to-Eat Meats Recalled Nationwide Federal safety officials announced a nationwide recall of nearly 1.6 million pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products due to temperature control failures during warehouse storage. The voluntary recall by Kayem Foods Inc. affects widespread shipments of hot dogs, bacon, brisket, and poultry sausages produced between late March and early October. Regulators issued a Class I recall classification, advising consumers and foodservice operators to immediately discard or avoid consuming the affected inventory. 4. Ms. Rachel Contributes $3,000 to Support Family After Library Incident Children's educator and content creator Ms. Rachel donated $3,000 to a family fundraiser after a viral video showed a Connecticut library worker bypassing a young Black toddler during a storytime event. The video prompted widespread community outrage on social media, leading local library administrators to place the employee on administrative leave. In addition to providing financial support, Ms. Rachel publicly apologized to the parents for the painful experience and invited the family to meet for a private puppet play session. 5. Search Underway for Missing California Teen K'Miracle Anderson Authorities and the California Highway Patrol have activated an Ebony Alert for 16-year-old K'Miracle "KK" Danyella Anderson, who went missing on October 7, 2026, after last being seen at Berkeley High School. Family members reported that she disappeared after meeting an unknown adult male following classes, and she is described as a 5-foot-3, 124-pound Black female with a light complexion, long brown hair, and hazel eyes. Anyone with information regarding her whereabouts is urged to contact the Emeryville Police Department at (510) 596-3700 or the Black & Missing Foundation at 877-97-BAMFI. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See All (100)

4.9
out of 5
30 Ratings

About

Everyday, Sybil Wilkes gives you "What You Need To Know."

Information

More From Urban One Podcast Network

You Might Also Like