Baltimore City

BBR (Maryland) Baltimore City stands at a crossroads, grappling with a myriad of issues that demand immediate attention and decisive action. The Inner Harbor, once a beacon of prosperity, now languishes, overshadowed by the shadows of violence that haunt our streets.

Our children, the promise of our future, face the harsh reality of a city marred by senseless killings and the ever-looming threat of becoming victims themselves. High crime rates, mismanagement of vacant homes, and the stark disparity between the affluent and the struggling create a disconcerting landscape.

The divide between neighborhoods, symbolized by the enigmatic 'black butterfly,' underscores the deep-rooted inequities within our city. Behind the scenes, a select few pull the strings, dictating the narrative while the rest of us bear the brunt of their decisions.

Crime, the grim specter that haunts our city, is at an all-time high. Murders, strong-arm robberies, carjackings, and domestic violence plague our streets, leaving communities in fear. While the Orioles and Ravens flourish, the rest of Baltimore suffers, with essential services like police and fire departments stretched thin, their brave members paying the price for inadequate staffing.

Our city's infrastructure crumbles, and resources are pilfered from under our very noses, leaving us wondering where the priorities lie. Cherry Hill stands divided from Roland Park, a poignant reminder of the economic disparities that stain our city's fabric. The tale of Cross Keys, purchased for millions, leaves us questioning the allocation of resources and the motives of those in power. Meanwhile, the plight of Harlem Park remains overlooked, a potential gold mine for external interests while its residents continue to struggle.

The promise of progress rings hollow when basic needs go unmet, and hope wanes with every passing day. Yet, amidst these challenges, Baltimore clings to its identity, finding solace in the simple pleasures of life, like our beloved crab cakes.

But the time for complacency has passed. We must unite as a city, demand accountability from our leaders, and work tirelessly to rebuild what has been lost. The path forward requires a collective effort, a commitment to justice, equality, and a better future for every Baltimorean. It's time to rewrite the script, empower our communities, and ensure that every child can grow up in a city where their dreams can flourish, unburdened by the specter of violence and inequality.

Only then can we reclaim the pride that Baltimore deserves and restore its rightful place as a beacon of hope on the Chesapeake Bay.

Published on October 26, 2023

Vice President of Marketing & Communications at TEDCO, Tammi Thomas

(BBR) Tammi L. Thomas is a remarkable woman who has been recognized for her exceptional contributions in various fields. She has been named among The Daily Record's Top 100 Women, recognized as one of 2022's most influential businesswomen, and has been featured in TEDCO's Leading Edge podcast series. In this article, we will take a closer look at Tammi Thomas's achievements and how she has made a mark for others.

As the Vice President of Marketing & Communications at TEDCO, Tammi Thomas has played a vital role in promoting the organization's mission to facilitate the growth of technology-based startups in Maryland. Her expertise in marketing and communications has been instrumental in attracting investors, entrepreneurs, and innovators to TEDCO's ecosystem. In a recent interview with MDBIZNews, Tammi highlighted the importance of storytelling in marketing and how it can help entrepreneurs convey their message effectively.

Tammi's achievements extend beyond her role at TEDCO. She has been recognized as one of 2022's most influential businesswomen by The Daily Record, an honor that celebrates Maryland's female leaders who are making a significant impact in their industries. Tammi's leadership and contributions to the business community have been acknowledged through this prestigious recognition.

Tammi has also been featured in TEDCO's Leading Edge podcast series, where she shares her insights and experiences with the startup community. In these podcasts, Tammi talks about various aspects of entrepreneurship, such as branding, marketing, and storytelling, and how they can help startups succeed. She also shares her views on the importance of diversity and inclusion in the startup ecosystem and how TEDCO is working towards creating a more inclusive environment.

In addition to her professional achievements, Tammi is also a community leader and a mentor. She is actively involved in various community organizations, including the Women's Business Center of Maryland, and is a mentor to many young professionals. Tammi's dedication to giving back to the community and supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs is truly inspiring.

In conclusion, Tammi L. Thomas is a trailblazing leader who has made a mark in various fields. Her contributions to the startup ecosystem in Maryland have been significant, and her leadership and dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion have been recognized by many. Tammi's insights and experiences can inspire many young entrepreneurs, and her commitment to giving back to the community serves as an excellent example of leadership in action.

Air pollution has become a pervasive issue in today's world

(BBR) Air pollution has become a pervasive issue in today's world, affecting not only the environment but also our health. Poor air quality is a silent threat that poses significant risks to our well-being. With pollutants ranging from particulate matter to toxic gases, the detrimental effects on the human body cannot be overlooked. Understanding the consequences of breathing polluted air is essential for taking proactive steps to protect ourselves and advocate for cleaner air.

1. Respiratory System:

The respiratory system is particularly vulnerable to the effects of poor air quality. Inhaling pollutants such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone (O3) can irritate the respiratory tract, leading to inflammation, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure to polluted air can exacerbate existing respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), while also increasing the risk of respiratory infections.

2. Cardiovascular Health:

Air pollution is not limited to the lungs; it can have far-reaching effects on cardiovascular health as well. Fine particulate matter and toxic gases can enter the bloodstream, causing systemic inflammation and damaging blood vessels. Long-term exposure to polluted air has been linked to an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, high blood pressure, and other cardiovascular diseases. The presence of air pollutants can disrupt the delicate balance of the cardiovascular system, putting individuals at greater risk of developing life-threatening conditions.

3. Cognitive Function:

Recent research suggests a strong association between air pollution and impaired cognitive function. Fine particulate matter and other pollutants can penetrate the blood-brain barrier, leading to neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Prolonged exposure to polluted air has been linked to decreased cognitive abilities, memory loss, reduced attention span, and an increased risk of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Protecting the brain from the harmful effects of air pollution is crucial for maintaining optimal cognitive function throughout life.

4. Children's Health:

Children, with their developing bodies and immune systems, are particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of poor air quality. Exposure to air pollution during critical stages of growth can hinder lung development, leading to long-term respiratory problems. Additionally, children exposed to polluted air may experience impaired cognitive development, lower academic performance, and increased risk of behavioral issues. It is imperative to prioritize clean air to safeguard the health and well-being of our younger generations.

5. Overall Health Implications:

The consequences of breathing polluted air extend beyond the respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological systems. Poor air quality has been associated with a range of health issues, including allergies, skin problems, compromised immune function, and increased susceptibility to infections. Moreover, certain air pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and air toxics, have been linked to a higher risk of cancer, posing a grave concern to public health.

Conclusion:

The impact of poor air quality on our bodies cannot be underestimated. It affects us on multiple fronts, from respiratory health to cardiovascular function and cognitive abilities. Protecting ourselves from the dangers of air pollution requires collective efforts, including advocating for stricter emission controls, adopting sustainable practices, and supporting clean energy alternatives. By recognizing the significance of clean air for our health, we can work towards a future where breathable air is a fundamental right, ensuring a healthier and thriving society for generations to come.

Lamar Jackson and the Ravens highest Paid NFL Quarterback

(BBR) The Baltimore Ravens agreed in principle with Lamar Jackson on a five-year deal Thursday, making their star quarterback the highest-paid player in NFL history.

The Ravens and Jackson agreed on a $260 million, five-year deal with $185 million in guaranteed money, a person familiar with the terms told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the contract hasn’t been signed.

The deal keeps the 2019 NFL MVP in Baltimore for the foreseeable future and ends a contract negotiation saga that was dominating the team’s offseason. Jackson’s contract tops the $255 million, five-year deal the Philadelphia Eagles gave Jalen Hurts earlier this month. Hurts got $179.3 million in guarantees.

Deshaun Watson still has the biggest guaranteed contract in NFL history. The Cleveland Browns gave Watson a five-year, fully-guaranteed $230 million extension last year to waive his no-trade clause and agree to join the team.

The Ravens announced the deal hours before the first round of the NFL draft, and it’s fair to say that in Baltimore at least, this news will overshadow whoever the team might take in the first round.

After playing out his rookie contract, Jackson’s future with the Ravens was in doubt. Baltimore put the franchise tag on Jackson last month, but the Ravens kept expressing confidence that they could reach a long-term agreement with him — even after Jackson made a trade request public.

The Ravens did not disclose contract terms, but their tweet announcing the deal did include a video of Jackson talking.

“For the last few months, there’s been a lot of he said, she said, a lot of nail biting, a lot of head scratching going on,” Jackson said. “But for the next five years, it’s a lot of flock going on.”

That was a reference to the term “Ravens Flock” used by the team’s fans.

“Let’s go baby. Let’s go, let’s go,” Jackson added. “Can’t wait to get there, can’t wait to be there. Can’t wait to light up M&T (Bank Stadium) for the next five years, man. Let’s get it.”

Jackson’s deal brings one of the NFL’s biggest offseason stories to a conclusion — right as one of the league’s biggest annual events was about to start. The Ravens can now expect Jackson in the lineup for the first game of the season, without drama about whether he’ll report to camp. They’ve already boosted his wide receiving group by signing Odell Beckham Jr. Baltimore also has a new offensive coordinator after hiring Georgia’s Todd Monken.

Drafted in 2018, Jackson is already one of six quarterbacks in NFL history with 10,000 yards passing and 4,000 rushing. He’s been hurt at the end of the past two seasons, however. At age 26, his best days could well be ahead of him, and now he’ll remain in a Baltimore uniform.

Jackson, who was negotiating without an agent, stood to make $32.4 million this season if he played on the franchise tag, but that path had potential pitfalls for both sides. Jackson would have risked losing a lot of money long term if he was injured, and even if he stayed healthy, the team might have had an unhappy quarterback on its hands. Jackson’s contract situation didn’t seem too disruptive last offseason, but it took a different turn when he announced in late March that he’d requested a trade a few weeks earlier.

Whether that was out of frustration with the process or an attempt to draw more interest from other teams, Jackson and the Ravens now appear to be very much on the same page.

It’s also an interesting coincidence Jackson’s new contract was announced on draft day. Five years ago, he wasn’t one of the top players taken. Baltimore landed him with the 32nd pick, and he was the fifth quarterback taken. Of the four who went ahead of him, only Buffalo’s Josh Allen has enjoyed success comparable to Jackson. Allen signed a long-term deal with the Bills two offseasons ago.

Harbor Bank of Maryland, Joseph Haskins Jr. has stepped down as CEO

(BBR)  After four decades of dedicated service to the Harbor Bank of Maryland, Joseph Haskins Jr. has stepped down as CEO. As one of the co-founders of the bank, Haskins has played a significant role in establishing the Harbor Bank as the only Black-owned and -managed commercial bank in the state.

While his departure marks the end of an era, the bank has found a capable successor in John Lewis. As the former President and CEO of the Baltimore Development Corporation, Lewis brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise in economic development and community empowerment. He has also served as a member of the Harbor Bank's board of directors for over a decade, making him well-versed in the bank's operations and mission.

(John Lewis is the New CEO of the Harbor Bank of Maryland)

As the new CEO of the Harbor Bank of Maryland, Lewis is committed to continuing the bank's legacy of serving the black business community and promoting economic empowerment. He plans to focus on expanding the bank's reach and impact, developing new products and services to better serve the needs of its customers, and leveraging technology to streamline operations and enhance customer experiences.

In addition, Lewis recognizes the importance of maintaining the bank's role as a leading voice for racial equity and social justice. He has pledged to continue supporting community initiatives and advocating for policies that promote inclusive economic growth and address systemic inequalities.

The Harbor Bank of Maryland has long been a cornerstone of the black business community, providing critical financial services and resources to black-owned businesses and individuals. With John Lewis now at the helm, the bank is poised to continue its important work and build on the strong foundation established by Haskins and his team.

We wish Joseph Haskins Jr. all the best in his future endeavors and thank him for his decades of service and leadership at the Harbor Bank of Maryland. We also congratulate John Lewis on his new role as CEO and look forward to seeing the bank continue to thrive under his capable leadership.

Troy Staton is the founder, director, and CEO of More Than A Shop

(BBR) Troy Staton is the founder, director, and CEO of More Than A Shop, a nonprofit organization that works to promote economic development and entrepreneurship in underserved communities. Troy's passion for community development and social impact has driven him to create innovative programs and initiatives that provide resources and support to individuals and businesses in need. More Than A Shop is a unique organization that operates on a model of collective entrepreneurship, bringing together individuals and businesses to work collaboratively and create shared economic opportunities. The organization provides a range of services, including business training, financial coaching, and access to capital.

More Than A Shop has helped hundreds of individuals and businesses to start and grow, providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed. Troy's vision for More Than A Shop was inspired by his own experiences growing up in an underserved community. He recognized the barriers that many individuals face when trying to start a business or access capital, and he was determined to create a solution that could help bridge that gap. One of the most successful programs at More Than A Shop is their "Shop in a Box" initiative.

 This program provides individuals with all of the tools and resources they need to start their own business, including a physical storefront, inventory, and marketing support. The program has been incredibly successful, helping many individuals to achieve their dream of owning their own business and creating economic opportunities in their communities. Troy's work has not gone unnoticed.

He has received numerous awards and recognitions for his leadership and innovation, including the "40 Under 40" award from the Baltimore Business Journal and the "Social Innovator of the Year" award from The Daily Record. Troy's dedication to creating economic opportunities and promoting entrepreneurship in underserved communities has made a significant impact on many individuals and businesses. His work at More Than A Shop serves as an inspiration to others who are passionate about creating positive change and making a difference in their communities.

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