By Alexis LaRueAFRO Internalarue@afro.com Lenora Howze, longtime executive director and advertising director of AFRO News, was recently honored at a special event on March 26, celebrating her departure after more than 13 years of dedicated service. The farewell celebration served as a tribute to her impactful leadership and lasting contributions to the publication and the […]
Tag: James Fields
Two years later: Maryland rebuilds after Key Bridge collapseÂ
Two years after a container ship collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, sending a massive section into the Patapsco River and claiming six lives, Maryland’s rebuild is moving faster than any project of its size in the U.S. Demolition is complete, foundation piles are being installed, and officials say the new bridge—set to reopen in late 2030—will be the state’s first cable-stayed span over 2 miles long with 230 feet of clearance for modern shipping.
Behind the byline: AFRO reporters talk top stories, lessons learned in 2025
An amazing group of tenacious reporters empowered the AFRO to cover everything from health and education to politics, public safety, business and more. Click the link to learn a bit about the reporters and the work done in 2025.
Afro Charities forges ahead with construction on Upton Mansion redevelopment
By Savannah WoodAfro Charities CEO After a public groundbreaking ceremony in February for their historic Upton Mansion redevelopment project, Afro Charities is well underway on their transformative development. The site, vacant since 2006, will become the new headquarters for both Afro Charities and AFRO News, and the public research center for the historic AFRO Archives, […]
Investigators find fatal Key Bridge collapse caused by single loose wire on Dali
The Key Bridge Collapse, caused by being hit by the Dali container ship, was caused by a single loose wire within the ship.
Demolition of Key Bridge’s remaining structure set to begin in July
Demolition of the remaining Key Bridge structures begin in July as part of a major rebuild effort. Nearby communities seek continued involvement and safeguards against environmental and noise impacts.
AFRO wins over 20 awards in Maryland, Delaware, D.C. Press Association contest
The AFRO earned top honors at the 2024 Maryland, Delaware and District of Columbia Press Association Awards, taking home over 20 awards across multiple categories and reinforcing its 133-year tradition of journalistic excellence. Amid growing political challenges for the press, these wins underscore the essential role of Black media in uplifting community voices and safeguarding the truth.
DOJ files $100-million lawsuit against owner and operator of ‘Dali’ months after bridge
The U.S. Justice Department is suing Grace Ocean Private Limited and Synergy Marine Group for more than $100 million for their container ship’s collision with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which resulted in six deaths and significant disruption to economic activity.
NCBW’s Baltimore Metropolitan Chapter hosts ‘Pearls with a Purpose’ event
The National Coalition of 100 Black Women’s Baltimore Metropolitan Chapter hosted “Pearls with a Purpose” on April 14 to raise funds for their advocacy work in the community.
Spotlight on finances: Tips and tricks from the AFRO team
AFRO staff members share their experiences and tips on how to navigate their finances in honor of National Financial Literacy Month.

