WASHINGTON – 96.3 WHUR is marking 50 years of excellence in broadcasting and community service Friday, December 10^th at 10:30 a.m. with a special mural unveiling outside Ben’s Chili Bowl at 1213 U Street, NW.

The radio station first hit the airwaves December 10, 1971 at 6pm. Five decades later, WHUR is highlighting its golden anniversary with a large mural depicting the many voices, faces, and images that have kept the station going strong for half a century.  “It’s so fitting that this special WHUR mural is located outside the iconic Ben’s Chili Bowl, which has been a staple of the DMV community for decades,” said WHUR General Manager Sean Plater. 

WHUR is owned by Howard University.  The Washington Post gifted the radio station to Howard for $1 in 1971.  Since its inception, WHUR has become a powerhouse in the broadcasting industry winning hundreds of local and national awards for its vital role of serving the community.

The mural unveiling, adjacent to the Lincoln Theatre, will include a special ceremony and presentations from elected leaders across the region.  It is one of a host of events the radio station has planned over the coming months.  Additionally, on Friday at 2 p.m. at Ben’s Chili Bowl, WHUR will honor 10 listeners who won the station’s Community’s Choice Award, highlighting the best organizations, businesses, and community leaders in DMV.  The winners were chosen through online voting.

“We stand on the history and legacy of Howard University, understanding our driving force is Howard’s motto of ‘Truth and Service’ and this mural showcases that commitment,” added Plater.  Last month, the station’s legacy was featured as part of Macy’s Metro Center holiday window display.  That display can be seen through December 13^th at two windows at 12^th and G Streets, NW.

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Media Contact: Renee J. Nash, rnash@whur.com; Kimberly Holmes-Iverson, kimberly.iverson@howard.edu