The AFRO’s 2026 Baltimore Tea will be held April 25 at Martin’s West from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Each year the event serves as a time to celebrate the Black community and bring together the best of Baltimore. Shown here, 2025 attendees Jade Madden (left), Michelle Johnson and Dikesha Robinson.
Tag: Shelonda Stokes
Posted inBaltimore News
State of Downtown report points to gains, ongoing transition in Baltimore’s core
The Downtown Partnership of Baltimore’s 2025 State of Downtown report highlighted continued momentum in the city’s core, pointing to gains in public safety, residential growth and private investment alongside ongoing shifts in the office market and redevelopment pipeline. City leaders said long-term progress will depend on coordinated public and private efforts tied to the Downtown RISE master plan and a series of new development incentives and projects
Posted inBUSINESS
MCB Real Estate moves forward with $900 million Harborplace transformation
MCB Real Estate’s $900-million transformation of Harborplace is set to begin this fall, promising a reimagined waterfront with retail, dining, cultural spaces and green areas. The project aims to revitalize downtown Baltimore, boosting local businesses and restoring the Inner Harbor as a central gathering place for residents and visitors alike.
Posted inBaltimore News
Downtown Partnership of Baltimore’s annual meeting showcases vision for downtown growth and connectivity
The Downtown Partnership of Baltimore hosted its annual meeting on Nov. 5, highlighting the city’s progress and future plans under the Downtown RISE initiative. Leaders discussed ongoing efforts to attract investment, connect neighborhoods and make downtown more vibrant and accessible for residents and visitors.
Posted inBUSINESS
Black women business owners are redefining Baltimore’s future
In Baltimore, Black women entrepreneurs are reshaping the city’s economic and cultural future. From downtown revitalization to oyster innovation and creative stationery, Shelonda Stokes, Jasmine Norton and Alisa Brock are building purpose-driven businesses rooted in community and resilience.
Posted inBaltimore Community
Downtown Partnership of Baltimore announces Baltimore Culinary Exchange grant program
The Baltimore Culinary Exchange (BCX) grant program creates support for existing and new restaurants as well as food entrepreneurs in Baltimore city.
Posted inBaltimore Events
Six regional HBCUs receive scholarships at the Presidents’ Roundtable 2025 Scholarship Awards Gala
By Ericka Alston BuckSpecial to the AFRO On Friday, March 21, 2025, the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront transformed into a vibrant celebration of excellence and opportunity as the Presidents’ RoundTable (PRT) and the PRT Reach Foundation hosted the 2025 Scholarship Awards Gala. The evening’s spotlight was on higher education, honoring institutions with over $250,000 to date […]
Posted inBaltimore News
Downtown Partnership of Baltimore releases annual ‘State of Downtown’ report
By Megan SaylesAFRO Staff Writermsayles@afro.com The Downtown Partnership of Baltimore (DPOB) unveiled its 2024 State of Downtown report on March 20. The annual analysis provides updates on key indicators of the health of Baltimore’s Central Business District, including data on employment, tourism, employment, vacancies and public safety According to DPOB’s president, Shelonda Stokes, downtown is […]
Posted inBaltimore News
Baltimore rings in New Year with Inner Harbor fireworks
Baltimore celebrated the New Year with fireworks, a concert from The Jonathan Gilmore Experience, and extended hours at the Inner Harbor Ice Rink, with Mayor Brandon M. Scott and his wife, Hana, in attendance.
Posted inBaltimore News
A century of impact: Greater Baltimore Urban League celebrates 100 years of service
The Greater Baltimore Urban League celebrated its 100th anniversary with a gala event that recognized the contributions of individuals and organizations to advancing the social, economic and political equity of Baltimore’s Black community.
Posted inBUSINESS
Downtown Partnership of Baltimore celebrates Central Business and Arts District at annual meeting
The Downtown Partnership of Baltimore held its annual meeting on Oct. 10, celebrating local leaders and announcing a $7 billion development project, as well as a $10 million grant from the state of Maryland to support the city’s growth.
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Baltimore’s Birthday Bash shines bright at the Inner Harbor
Live Baltimore celebrated Baltimore’s 295th birthday with a party at Harborplace, featuring local IPAs, hors d’oeuvres, and desserts, as well as a “sweetest treat” competition and a dance party with DJ Tanz.