Baltimore police recovered the body of 27-year-old Branson Oduor on April 14 in the Inner Harbor after he was reported missing following a night out in Fells Point almost two weeks prior. Authorities are still investigating the cause of death. Loved ones remember him as a caring, outgoing person deeply connected to the city.
Tag: AFRO Staff Writer
Moore unveils Baltimore Transit-Oriented Development Plan
State and local officials unveiled the Baltimore Regional Transit-Oriented Development Strategy at Rogers Avenue Metro Station on April 6. The strategy aims to boost housing, expand transit access and drive economic growth, including 400 new housing units and major Light Rail investments.
Northeast SARE Partnership Grant seeks proposals for innovative farming projects
The Northeast SARE Partnership Grant program is offering up to $30,000 for researchers, educators and agricultural service providers to test innovative farming practices in collaboration with local farmers. Past projects, like one in Baltimore that turned food and farm waste into nutrient-rich compost, have improved urban food production while engaging youth and reducing pollution.
Maryland advances LEAD Act to protect youth who wander or elope
Maryland’s LEAD Act aims to protect youth prone to elopement by improving first responder training, coordination, and public safety measures. Senate Bill 745 mandates law enforcement training for autism, dementia and wandering behaviors.
Mentorship and strategy help Black women navigate workplace barriers and build leadership paths
Black women face unique challenges in the workplace, from slower promotion rates to higher burnout, often navigating environments where their contributions are overlooked. Through mentorship, career strategies and confidence-building, leaders like Sherry Sims and her clients are finding ways to claim leadership and thrive.
Aging while Black: Seniors say listening is the first step to care
By Victoria MejicanosAFRO Staff Writervmejicanos@afro.com When discussing how to best serve older residents, it can be easy to get lost in statistics and policies. Experts and seniors alike say what’s most important when considering the aging Black population is communication. “When we think about seniors and look at the social determinants of health, I think […]
SNF Parkway launches inaugural artist residency, invites Baltimore creatives to apply
SNF-Parkway theatre is inviting Baltimore artists to apply to its inaugural artists residency program. Those selected will have their work presented in the Parkway’s theatre as well as a $6,000 stipend to support their work.
Baltimore’s Rhyan Gray among 100 students chosen for Disney Dreamers Academy
Rhyan Gray, a 17-year-old student from Baltimore, has been selected to participate in the Disney Dreamers Academy Class of 2026, an all-expenses-paid program that provides mentorship and career exploration for students passionate about access and equity.
Maryland comptroller appoints Andrea Brown as director of the Office of the Taxpayer Advocate
Director of the Office of the Taxpayer Advocate Excerpt: Maryland Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman (D) has appointed Andrea Brown as director of the Office of the Taxpayer Advocate. Brown brings nearly two decades of experience and will work to improve taxpayer accountability and access to a fair tax system.
Prince George’s County Council selects Wala Blegay to fill vacancy
Prince George’s County Council member Wala Blegay (D) will fill the recently vacated at-large seat, bringing her experience with various countywide initiatives. The seat will be up for election in November 2026.
YouthWorks opens 2026 summer job applications for Baltimore youth
By Victoria MejicanosAFRO Staff Writer YouthWorks, the program within the Baltimore City Mayor’s Office of Employment Development that provides a five-week summer job opportunity to thousands of Baltimore City youth and young adults will return in 2026. The program, which began in 1973 as “Blue Chip,” creates employment opportunities each year for people ages 14 […]
D.C. delegate seat draws crowded field ahead of 2026 midterms
The crowded 2026 race for Washington, D.C.’s nonvoting House delegate seat in U.S. Congress reflects growing concerns over federal interference and the city’s future. Multiple candidates say the moment demands new leadership to protect local autonomy and representation.

