Following eight months of failed negotiations, Johns Hopkins Medicine will no longer be covered as “in-network” for patients with insurance through UnitedHealthcare. This leaves thousands of patients in Maryland, D.C., and Virginia potentially facing higher costs or reduced coverage.
Category: DMV News
Community split as D.C. residents debate federal takeover, with opposition outweighing support
Since the president took control of D.C.’s police force and deployed nearly 2,000 armed National Guard troops on Aug. 11, residents remain deeply divided. A Washington Post/George Mason poll shows nearly 80 percent oppose the move, with many calling it government overreach and questioning the justification given falling crime rates. Others, however, support the action, citing concerns about youth violence and safety on city streets and public transit.
Reading, writing and road rules: AAA offers lesson in back-to-school traffic safety
As schools in D.C. and Maryland reopen for the 2025–26 academic year, AAA is reminding motorists, parents, students, and bicyclists to stay alert and follow traffic safety rules to keep children safe. With increased congestion around schools, risks posed by distracted driving, red-light running, and improper bus passing are heightened. AAA highlights state laws, offers safety tips for bus riders, pedestrians, bicyclists, and parents handling drop-offs and pick-ups, and stresses vigilance to prevent avoidable tragedies.
Bowie State University ranks No. 5 in Forbes’ 2025 top online HBCUs list
Bowie State University has been ranked No. 5 on Forbes’ 2025 list of the best HBCUs offering online degrees, recognizing its high-quality, affordable, and accessible virtual programs. The honor reflects the university’s commitment to meeting students where they are and preparing them for success in a rapidly changing world.
Gladys William celebrates 100 years of life
Gladys William, a Washington, D.C., resident and retired nurse, recently celebrated her 100th birthday. A native of North Carolina, she was raised by her father after losing her mother as an infant. William spent 65 years in the nursing profession, working in hospitals, nursing homes and private care. Surrounded by her daughter and adopted son, she continues to be celebrated for a life of service and resilience.
From vision to venture: Founders building with heart and hustle
Black business ownership is on the rise, with entrepreneurs like Anissa Truitt, Christina Sledge and Ceal Starks transforming personal missions into purpose-driven, community-centered ventures.
Innovation with intention: The power and diversity of Black-owned ventures
Black entrepreneurs across industries are redefining success by centering community, innovation and purpose. From holistic health to tech accelerators to campus digital transformation, these leaders are proving that entrepreneurship in the Black community is as diverse as it is resilient.
Young Successful Leaders Incorporated to Receive $50,000 Huddle Up for Health Grant from CareFirst and Baltimore Ravens
CareFirst and the Baltimore Ravens have awarded Young Successful Leaders Inc. (YSLI) a $50,000 grant to expand its mental health, violence prevention and youth development programs in Baltimore.
5 Washingtonians spotlight beloved Black-owned businesses
By Nyame-Kye KondoSpecial to the AFRO The AFRO had the pleasure of catching up with some Washingtonians as they went about their daily lives. We asked five individuals to name their favorite Black-owned businesses in the area and their answers reflected both the shared culture and varied interests of the African-American community. Dezhane Moore – […]
Three key tips for newspapers to thrive for the next 100 years
AFRO leaders share three key tips for Black newspapers to thrive: balancing legacy, innovation, and engagement with younger generations amid industry challenges.
Local officials respond to 47th president’s federal takeover of D.C. police department
The 47th president has declared a national crime emergency in Washington, D.C., placing the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) under federal control amid concerns over rising violent crime. However, local leaders, including Mayor Muriel Bowser, argue that crime is actually declining and criticize the move as an unprecedented overreach of federal authority.
Black men’s spiritual healing circle negates impact of toxic masculinity
Members of CREWS (Communities Respecting Everyone’s Will
To Survive) work with small community-based organizations in the Greater Washington Area to help Black men and youth overcome the debilitating impacts of crime and self-hatred.

