Janae Pierre
Host/Reporter
Janae Pierre is the station’s general assignment reporter and local host of NPR’s All Things Considered.
A native of New Orleans, Pierre has worked and volunteered with several different media organizations, notably NPR affiliate WWNO, the New Orleans Tribune and WBOK 1230AM, where she began as a college intern. In her spare time, Pierre enjoys listening to old vinyl records (she loves that scratchy sound). Some of her favorite artists include Al Green, Gil Scott Heron and Dinah Washington.
In early 2019, Pierre was recognized as the “Best Large Market Radio Reporter” by the Alabama Broadcasters Association. She was also listed on Radio Ink's 2017 “Future African American Leaders in Radio,” and she's the recipient of the 2015 Sophie Aramburo Servant/Leader Award.
Tax Bills Increase for Many in Jefferson County
10-13-2019
The former AT&T City Center, a vacant skyscraper in downtown Birmingham, will have a property tax bill about half a million dollars more than last year’s. It’s one of many properties, including homes, that can expect to pay more in taxes this year.
Bluesman Henry “Gip” Gipson Dies at 99
10-8-2019
Alabama native and blues musician Henry “Gip” Gipson has died. He was 99.
Birmingham Gets Back to Distilling Liquor
10-3-2019
The number of distilleries across the U.S. is on the rise. There are more than 1,500 active distillers nationwide, according to the American Craft Spirits Association. WBHM’s Janae Pierre reports, when it comes to spirits, a couple distillers in Birmingham are already on board.
Transit Authority Chief Seeks Compromise to Pass Budget
09-12-2019
The Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority recently rejected a proposed budget that would have increased bus fares to $1.50 and cut bus service. Executive Director Frank Martin says riders aren’t paying enough into the system, and neither is the city of Birmingham.
Bessemer Residents Eager for Lincoln Theatre Restoration
08-30-2019
Acclaimed actor Andre Holland is best known for his role in the Oscar winning film Moonlight and playing Andrew Young in the movie Selma. Holland purchased the Lincoln Theatre in his hometown of Bessemer, Alabama and plans to re-open it as a single-screen cinema and performing arts space.
Some Million Miles: A Search for Redemption
08-23-2019
This short documentary film takes a hard look at a rural community atop Sand Mountain in northeast Alabama ravaged by drugs and poverty. Jared Ragland co-directed the film with Adam Forrester. It screens this weekend at the Sidewalk Film Festival.
Annexit: The Push to Deannex Parts of Anniston into Oxford
08-20-2019
Anniston City Councilwoman Millie Harris says some residents want out of the city because of poor schools, high crime rates, and declining property values.
Prison Re-Entry Program to Expand with $6 Million Grant
07-31-2019
When prisoners are released, they often face lots of hurdles. They can’t find work or housing or health care. Often, they end up back in prison. The Dannon Project recently received a large federal grant that will allow the nonprofit to help more former inmates get on their feet.
Birmingham Sees Conflict Resolution as Key to Breaking Cycle of Violence
07-22-2019
Violent crime remains high in Birmingham, particularly among young black men. Now, the city is partnering with several nonprofits to teach skills they hope will prevent conflicts from escalating.
The Risky Business of Music Festivals
07-10-2019
Later this month, Freedom Fest makes its debut in downtown Birmingham. But music festivals around here seem to come and go. We sent WBHM’s Janae Pierre to find out why it’s so hard to keep a music festival going here in the Magic City.
