(BALTIMORE – July 13, 2026) — BMORENews has officially launched The Monday Mixer, a new weekly networking initiative designed to connect entrepreneurs, business owners, nonprofit leaders, elected officials, media professionals, educators, clergy, and community advocates from across the region.
Hosted by BMORENews Publisher Doni Glover, the inaugural 40-minute online gathering brought together leaders representing business, government, media, education, ministry, filmmaking, and community development.
“Our mission is simple,” Glover told participants. “Connecting Opportunities. Building Community. Growing the BMORENews Network.”
Unlike traditional networking events, The Monday Mixer gives every participant an opportunity to introduce themselves, describe their work, and answer one important question:
“What’s one thing you need for your business or organization?”
That simple question sparked conversations about procurement, media exposure, branding, workforce development, entrepreneurship, commercial real estate, filmmaking, and community partnerships.
Among those participating in the inaugural Monday Mixer were:
- Devin Jackson, Greater Baltimore Black Chamber of Commerce, who discussed expanding procurement opportunities and increasing participation by Black-owned businesses.
- Calvin Watkins, real estate professional and videographer, who shared his innovative “Remodel Now, Pay Later” program while discussing the power of visual storytelling in Baltimore communities.
- Dr. Leroy McKenzie, publisher, marketing strategist, and leadership coach, who emphasized branding, visibility, and helping entrepreneurs communicate their purpose more effectively.
- Rondy Griffin of G. Grant Griffin Media, who highlighted television, media production, and advertising opportunities available to businesses and organizations.
- Alexis Solis, candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives in Maryland’s 5th Congressional District, who spoke about public service and government contracting.
- Teresa Davis, filmmaker, who discussed her upcoming feature film, Kicking In Doors, which explores Baltimore’s opioid and fentanyl crisis while highlighting stories of recovery and resilience.
- Danny Blount, Baltimore County community activist, who encouraged continued civic engagement and regional collaboration.
- Bishop Kevin Elliott, pastor of The Lord’s Church, girls’ basketball coach at Pikesville High School, leader with We Our Us, and member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., who opened the evening with prayer and encouraged participants to continue serving their communities.
- Eric Sessions, owner of South Carolina BBQ & Catering at 8212 Liberty Road in Windsor Mill, who invited attendees to support local Black-owned businesses and shared information about his authentic South Carolina-style barbecue operation, open Friday through Sunday.
The Monday Mixer is designed to become a weekly gathering where people don’t simply exchange business cards—they build relationships.
Participants are encouraged to share opportunities, seek partnerships, promote events, and connect with others committed to strengthening Baltimore and beyond.
The inaugural session concluded with an invitation to return next Monday and to invite another entrepreneur, nonprofit leader, elected official, or community advocate.
For more than two decades, BMORENews has reported on the people shaping Baltimore.
With the launch of The Monday Mixer, the organization is creating a new space where those connections can happen every week.
The Monday Mixer is held every Monday evening and is presented by the BMORENews Network.
Connecting Opportunities. Building Community. Growing the BMORENews Network.
Want to participate in next Monday’s Monday Mixer?
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