After years of anticipation, East Baltimore’s Chick Webb Recreation Center reopens with new amenities and community support.
Category: Baltimore 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
NCBW 100 Baltimore Chapter hosts third annual Pearls with a Purpose event
The Baltimore Metropolitan Chapter, National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. hosted its third annual Pearls with a Purpose Deluxe Bull Roast Day Party on April 12 at Martin’s West, with a record 1,200 attendees. Members of Baltimore’s Divine Nine and representatives from Morgan State University’s School of Social Work were present in support of the organization’s mission.
Love the Avenue Day’ – community revitalization in action
By West North Avenue Development Authority On Saturday, April 18 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. the West North Avenue Development Authority (WNADA) will host “Love the Avenue Day,” a community-led initiative focused on clean-up, beautification, and activation of the corridor. This event will highlight: The event will take place on the 2800–2900 blocks of […]
Branson Oduor, 27-year-old missing Baltimore man, found dead
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.
Maryland lawmakers race clock as major bills clear final hurdles
By Tashi McQueenAFRO Staff Writertmcqueen@afro.com As the 2026 Maryland General Assembly session came to a close, lawmakers rushed to pass dozens of bills before the midnight deadline on April 13. Bills that failed to pass before the deadline must be reintroduced next session and go through the legislative process again to be reconsidered. The 90-day […]
New Visit Baltimore CEO, Kireem Swinton pledges to reframe Charm City’s story
Kireem Swinton has been named permanent president and CEO of Visit Baltimore after serving in the role on an interim basis since July 2025. In his new role, Swinton said he aims to expand tourism while reshaping how Baltimore is perceived on the national and global stage through storytelling and major events.
Funeral home founder Al Wylie celebrates his 80th birthday with street renaming ceremony
Community members gathered to celebrate the 80th birthday of funeral home founder Al P. Wylie on April 10 at Wylie Funeral Homes. Wylie received personal certificates from Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates and Baltimore City Police Department Western District’s Major Natalia Preston and a street was renamed in his honor.
Mayor Scott outlines $5 billion budget at virtual town hall
Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott presented a nearly $5 billion proposed fiscal year 2027 budget during a virtual town hall, emphasizing investments in infrastructure, youth programs and public safety without raising property or income taxes. Residents raised concerns about transportation, housing and access to grocery stores as officials encouraged continued public input ahead of City Council hearings.
Devin Allen takes the helm for SCOUT, Baltimore’s affordable art fair
Baltimore photographer Devin Allen has been named curator of SCOUT 2026, the city’s affordable art fair held as part of Artscape. As curator, Allen will spotlight local and national artists while helping build stronger connections between creators and the community.”
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.
The Links hosts voter registration training April 16 in Baltimore
Three Maryland chapters of The Links, Inc. will host a voter registration certification training on April 16 in Baltimore, aimed at equipping community members to register voters. The session, led by the Baltimore City Board of Elections, seeks to strengthen civic engagement and expand voter outreach efforts.

