Ben’s Chili Bowl is temporarily closing its historic U Street location in Washington, D.C., for the first time in over 60 years to undergo essential repairs and renovations. During construction, the beloved eatery will continue serving customers from a nearby pop-up location starting July 17.
Category: NEWS
Walter P. Carter Institute launches civic leadership program to empower Baltimore’s future changemakers
The Walter P. Carter Institute of Leadership and Service has launched its first major initiative, the Community Leadership and Empowerment Program (CLEP), a free 10-week course designed to cultivate Baltimore’s next generation of grassroots leaders. Rooted in the legacy of civil rights icon Walter P. Carter, the program equips participants with tools in civic engagement, advocacy and public service to help them lead meaningful change in their communities
Trayon White defies the odds, regains Ward 8 D.C. Council seat
Trayon White reclaimed his Ward 8 D.C. Council seat in a narrow victory during the July 15 special election, overcoming a crowded field, limited funding, and ongoing federal scrutiny. Despite losing, rival Sheila Bunn and others in the community emphasized unity moving forward, urging collaboration to address urgent issues like public safety, mental health, and economic equity.
Black and Missing: Baltimore woman found, but her disappearance highlighted ongoing national crisis
Alayia Berry, a 21-year-old Baltimore woman, was found at a local hospital after a massive search effort, having gone missing on July 10 under mysterious circumstances.
Mentoring Male Teens in the Hood visits HBCUs and historic sites in D.C. area to empower Black youth
Mentoring Male Teens in the Hood took a tour of historically Black Colleges and Universities, museums, and landmarks in Washington, D.C., to expose young men to different learning opportunities and encourage them to attend college.
D.C. Council adopts ranked choice voting, affirming November ballots
The D.C. Council voted 8-4 to approve funding for ranked choice voting as part of its budget process, advancing Initiative 83, which was supported by over 70 percent of voters in the November election. The measure would allow open primaries and enable voters to rank candidates, with an instant runoff process determining a majority winner if no candidate surpasses 50 percent of first-choice votes.
Mayor Scott and Maryland’s Capitol Hill delegation address record lows in crime rates, fight against cuts in federal funding
Mayor Brandon Scott and members of Maryland’s congressional delegation gathered at Baltimore City Hall to highlight record-setting crime reductions and express unified opposition to looming federal funding cuts, including those affecting Medicaid and education. Officials praised the city’s public safety progress and pledged to fight against harmful budget decisions from the Trump administration that threaten vulnerable Baltimore communities.
Black Restaurant Week returns to Baltimore for 5th year of food and culture
Black Restaurant Week returns to Baltimore, spotlighting Black-owned culinary businesses and driving visibility, community ties, and growth. The Empanada Lady’s success reflects its power to amplify local talent.
Carmelo Anthony comes home with a legacy-fueled vision for Baltimore
NBA legend Carmelo Anthony returned to Baltimore to announce a citywide cultural initiative that honors his legacy while empowering local youth through storytelling, mentorship and community programming. Centered on an upcoming exhibit at the Enoch Pratt Free Library, the project aims to inspire the next generation by celebrating Baltimore’s resilience and potential.
Building confidence and change through theatre
Over nearly 50 years, Penumbra Theatre in Saint Paul, Minn. has evolved from a pioneering Black arts institution into a national leader in racial healing and artistic excellence. Meanwhile, Tacoma Urban Performing Arts Center empowers Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) youth with classical arts training that builds confidence, discipline and cultural pride.
“We Can’t Wait”: Lessons from the New Abortion Landscape
Dr. Raegan McDonald-Mosely is a practicing OBGYN and abortion provider. This week, she discusses the new abortion landscape.
BMORENews celebrates founder Doni Glover’s 60th birthday, honors Baltimore media trailblazers
BMORENews.com honored founder Doni Glover for his 60th birthday with a benefit celebrating Black media and community. The event recognized media pioneers with an award ceremony for the Joe Manns Black Wall Street Honorees. Keynote speakers included Dawn Moore, first lady of Maryland, and Wanda Draper, former executive director of the Reginald F. Lewis Museum. Guests enjoyed musical performances, soul food and heartfelt reflections.

