At his second bill signing of 2025, Maryland Gov.Wes Moore signed transformative legislation aimed at reforming the state’s expungement process and giving incarcerated individuals a meaningful second chance. The Expungement Reform Act and Second Look Act address long-standing racial disparities in the justice system, offering new hope for thousands of Marylanders seeking redemption and opportunity.
Category: LOCAL
Posted inHBCU
Coppin State University to host 2025 Economic Inclusion Conference
Coppin State University’s Center for Strategic Entrepreneurship will host the 2025 Economic Inclusion Conference on April 30, focusing on youth economic empowerment through entrepreneurship and workforce readiness, in partnership with Baltimore City Public Schools and the Mayor’s Office of Employment Development. Building on past successes and research, the event will feature workshops, a job fair, and cross-sector collaboration to equip over 800 students with the tools to create sustainable economic futures.
Posted inBaltimore News
Memorial service for former media personality Anthony McCarthy slated for April 27
The Rev. Anthony McCarthy, a prominent voice in Baltimore media and politics for over 30 years, will be honored at a memorial service on April 27 at Northwood Appold United Methodist Church. McCarthy, who died March 16 at age 57 after battling kidney disease, was also a devoted community servant and ordained minister.
Posted inBaltimore Government
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott boasts progress during 2025 State of the City address
In his 2025 State of the City address, Baltimore City Mayor Brandon M. Scott highlighted significant reductions in violent crime and outlined ambitious goals for education and housing, including plans to lower property tax rates and rehabilitate vacant homes. He also criticized federal policies, emphasizing Baltimore’s commitment to progress despite national challenges.
Posted inBaltimore Government
Mayor Brandon M. Scott to deliver 2025 State of the City address
Mayor Brandon M. Scott will deliver his 2025 State of the City address on April 21 at 6 p.m., outlining progress on public safety and housing while unveiling new goals around literacy, property tax relief and the arts. Framed by the theme “Built Different, Building Different,” the speech aims to chart a steady course for Baltimore amid national uncertainty.
Posted inDistrict of Columbia Government
Open meetings no more? D.C. Council reshapes transparency rules in emergency vote
By Martin AustermuhleThe 51st In early April the D.C. Council passed emergency legislation that significantly expands lawmakers’ ability to meet behind closed doors and away from the prying ears and eyes of the press and public. Ironically, an unrelated bill was introduced called the “Transparency is Accountability Act.” Proponents of the emergency measure – the […]
Posted inMaryland News
Maryland Sen. Van Hollen meets with Abrego Garcia in El Salvador amid court fight over US return
Sen. Chris Van Hollen met with Kilmar Abrego Garcia in El Salvador on April 17, weeks after Abrego was deported by the 47th president’s administration despite a court order blocking his removal. The case has sparked partisan conflict in the U.S., with Democrats demanding his return and due process, while Republicans back his detention amid unproven gang allegations.
Posted inBaltimore News
How 4MyCiTy is feeding Baltimore and the planet this Earth Day
As Earth Day approaches, 4MyCiTy founder Christopher Dipnarine shares how his Baltimore-based nonprofit is tackling food waste and food insecurity. By transforming discarded food into nourishment and community empowerment, 4MyCiTy is reshaping sustainability in South Baltimore and beyond.
Posted inMoney
Saving, spending and surviving: Real talk on financial literacy
As financial literacy takes center stage this month, individuals are finding creative ways to budget, save and manage rising costs. From cutting back on dining out to using cash-only spending methods, everyday people share how they navigate their finances. While some prioritize emergency savings, others focus on investments or stretching their dollars with strategic shopping. Their stories highlight the realities of financial planning and resilience in today’s economy.
Posted inMental Health
Funding restored to Maryland youth mental health initiatives
By Sasha Allen Maryland mental health advocates and providers are relieved coming out of this year’s legislative session, where state lawmakers decided against a drastic cut in funding to the state’s year-old, big-money program aimed at improving the mental health of its young people. The Consortium on Coordinated Community Supports, created under the state’s ambitious […]
Posted inBaltimore News
REFLECT and REVIVE: West Baltimore beautification project honors 10th anniversary of Baltimore Uprising
By Teresa Stephens On Saturday, April 19, local West Baltimore residents, organizations and elected officials will join forces for a day of reflection and revitalization, including a community-wide clean up. The event hub is 1679 West North Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21217. Volunteers will arrive between 10 – 10:30 am for a brief welcome from community […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Gospel Fest brings church to the Symphony Hall
In a time when divisions often feel louder than unity, Gospel Fest was a moment of communion—a reminder of the beauty that emerges when tradition, excellence, and faith share the same stage. The event, held at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall in Baltimore on April 3, featured the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Pastor Smokie Norful, and three of the nation’s most distinguished HBCU choirs, Bowie State University Choir, Howard Gospel Choir and Morgan State University Choir.
