According to Pew Research, in 2022, 66 percent of White families owned stocks directly or indirectly, compared to 39 percent of Black families according to the Federal Reserve’s Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF).
Category: Baltimore News
Posted inBUSINESS
How to protect — and improve — your credit score in 2026
As credit scoring models continue to evolve, on-time payments and low credit utilization will play an even larger role in shaping scores in 2026. Financial experts warn that common misconceptions, such as opening multiple new credit cards to boost credit, can significantly damage a person’s overall profile.
Posted inMoney
Rising costs push Black households to cut back on everyday comforts
Black households across Baltimore and beyond say rising costs are reshaping their daily lives from food spending to basic beauty routines. Women like Sydney Robinson and Olivia Dreux describe holding on to hairstyles longer and cooking more at home as inflation outpaces income. Their stories along with those of new parents Rya and Eric Greene reflect a growing sense that even simple comforts have become harder to afford.
Posted inMaryland Government
Lester Davis speaks on first 100 days as chief of staff for Gov. Wes Moore
By Megan SaylesAFRO Staff Writermsayles@afro.com It’s been a little over a month since Lester Davis, former vice president and chief of staff for CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (Carefirst), took over as Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s chief of staff. Davis brings more than a decade of public service experience, including serving as deputy chief of staff for […]
Posted inBaltimore Community
Allendale rec center reopens after nearly three years of closure
Baltimore’s Allendale community celebrated the reopening of the Mary E. Rodman Rec Center after nearly three years of closure. The $1.8 million renovation brings new fitness, a playground and community spaces for local youth and families.
Posted inMaryland Government
Del. Joseline Peña-Melnyk leads race for Maryland House speakership role
Sources close to the AFRO say Del. Joseline Peña-Melnyk (D-MD-District 21), 59, is poised to become Maryland’s next Speaker of the House of Delegates when votes are held on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025.
Posted inMaryland News
Maryland leaders praise Speaker Adrienne Jones as she steps down from historic, transformative tenure
News of Maryland House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones’ immediate departure from her speakership role in the state legislature has led to an outpouring of love and appreciation for her time as the first woman and first Black person to hold the role. Leaders across the state credited her with steady, principled leadership through crises, landmark legislative victories, and major investments in HBCUs and underserved communities.
Posted inNational Sports
Late reversal helps Steelers hold on for 27-22 win over Ravens and sole possession of division lead
Aaron Rodgers led the Steelers to a 27-22 victory over the Ravens on Dec. 7, throwing for 284 yards and two touchdowns while helping Pittsburgh take sole possession of the AFC North lead. A late reversal on a Baltimore touchdown with 2:43 remaining sealed the win, leaving the Ravens struggling after consecutive divisional losses.
Posted inBaltimore News
One Baltimore event unites leaders around mental wellness, healing and community action
KEYS Development’s “One Baltimore” gathering brought together mental health providers, elected officials and community leaders to strengthen collaboration around healing, emotional wellness and youth support in the city. Speakers, including Mayor Brandon Scott and Sen. Antonio Hayes, emphasized that building a healthier Baltimore requires collective leadership, sustained investment and community-driven action.
Posted inBaltimore News
Bates pulls out of city’s violence-reduction partnership; Mayor Scott urges continued cooperation
Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates (D) announced his office will end direct coordination with the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (MONSE), citing a “veil of secrecy.” His actions raise questions about the future of the Group Violence Reduction Strategy, which is led by MONSE and is largely credited for recent public safety improvements.
Posted inClimate Change
Baltimore residents tracking climate change through new Morgan State weather station project
Baltimore residents are helping scientists track local climate impacts by collecting data from newly installed Morgan State–supported weather stations placed in neighborhoods across the city. The project aims to empower communities that often face environmental injustices by giving them ownership of climate data and a role in shaping research.
Posted inBaltimore News
New law brings equitable health services to Baltimore City students
Baltimore City is expanding healthcare access in schools, providing students and families with vaccinations, dental, vision and mental health services. The new law aims to ensure equitable care and support student well-being.