Baltimore County will assume operations of the Randallstown and Dundalk swim centers on Aug. 31 after the Y in Central Maryland ends its 15-year partnership, citing facility limitations. Community members worry the transition could include a temporary closure and disrupt access to vital swim programs that support safety, health and connection, particularly for Black youth.
Category: NEWS
Ellen Louise Dolvey Howard, Baltimore educator and TRIO leader, dies at 97
Ellen Louise Dolvey Howard, a Baltimore educator and national TRIO leader, died at 97 after a decades-long career helping low-income and first-generation students access higher education and trade programs.
Mfume secures $500k grant to expand job training for returning citizens
By Megan SaylesAFRO Staff Writermsayles@afro.com The National Center on Institutions and Alternatives (NCIA) closed out national Second Chance Month with a $500,000 federal grant secured by Congressman Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.-07) during the federal appropriations process to support returning citizens and prevent recidivism. The funds, which were delivered on April 27, will be used for 50 […]
Coppin State University Ball hosts ‘powerful’ night of Black excellence
By Kendra BryantSpecial to the AFRO Coppin State University (CSU) hosted its annual ball, “An Ode to Black Excellence,” on May 2 at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront, celebrating 126 years of nurturing potential and transforming lives. Each year, the ball serves as a time to honor the past, while also drumming up financial support for […]
Chicago ‘Fibroid Slayer’ makes history with biggest case of his career
By Jennifer Porter GoreWord in Black It was a case most gynecologists wouldn’t touch — literally. Brionna Johnson of Chicago, who was 17 weeks pregnant, had a fibroid tumor on her uterus that weighed 27 pounds. One gynecologist after another told her the growth had to come out, but the only way of doing that […]
Kenya’s rainy season turns deadly again, with 18 killed and 54,000 households hit over a week
Severe flooding from ongoing heavy rains in Kenya has killed at least 18 people in the past week and affected more than 54,000 households, with widespread damage to infrastructure, displacement from mudslides and warnings of continued rainfall.
Many retirees rely on Social Security—but confusion and delays can cost them
Many Black retirees rely on Social Security as a primary source of income, but experts say confusion about when to claim benefits and missing documentation can lead to reduced payments or delays.
An announcement of the passing of the Rev. Dr. Marie Murphy Phillips Braxton
The Rev. Dr. Marie Phillips Braxton, a devoted educator, faith leader and longtime AFRO shareholder and Board member, has passed away after a lengthy illness.
Early detection of maternal sepsis is critical for survival
Maternal sepsis is the second leading cause of maternal mortality in the US, and early detection and treatment is critical to prevent deadly outcomes, especially in rural communities where maternity care deserts are increasing.
Scott sets transit, infrastructure agenda as new BMC chair
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, newly appointed chair of the Baltimore Metropolitan Council, highlights transit and infrastructure as key priorities for the region.
D.C. budget hearings advance amid budget cut concerns
The D.C. Council is reviewing Mayor Bowser’s $1.1B deficit budget, with hearings through May 12 and a first vote expected June 9. Advocates raise concerns on proposed cuts to child care subsidies and the Early Childhood Educator Pay Equity Fund.
Ben’s Chili Bowl Seeks community input for new mural as renovations wrap
As Ben’s Chili Bowl prepares to install a new mural following renovations, community members are being invited to help decide which figures will be featured. Retired Army Master Sgt. Elizabeth Ann Helm-Fraizer is advocating for the inclusion of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, highlighting the unit’s historic contributions and ties to Washington, D.C.

