By Doni Glover, Publisher (BALTIMORE – November 10, 2024) – A thought-provoking question came my way on Wednesday. Like millions of Americans, I wrestled with disappointment about our country’s direction. Concerned about the future my three grandchildren will inherit, I’m left praying for the path ahead. A dear friend and mentor asked me, “Are you a patriot?” Though rarely at a loss for words, I paused. I’ve never doubted my love for this country or my willingness to defend it, but I’d never been asked outright. By definition, a patriot is someone who “vigorously supports their country and is prepared to…

By Doni Glover, Publisher (BALTIMORE – November 3, 2024) – Many thanks to Michael Johnson, David Murphy, and the “Black Men Unifying Black Men” collective for recognizing our efforts in the community. There is nothing like when your own community recognizes you. These men know full well the struggle to help empower our community. They know what we brothers go through out here but also understand that we are victors, not victims. And for their understanding, we are grateful. Kudos, also, to our ancestors – like the incomparable Sam Daniels. I didn’t know him personally. However, given that Saturday’s ceremony…

(BALTIMORE – November 2, 2024) – If I stay silent, I’ll never forgive myself. The upcoming election has stirred up a storm of anxiety across the country, and I feel compelled to share my thoughts. We’ve seen a flood of divisive rhetoric clouding people’s judgment about right and wrong. As scripture reminds us, this is a spiritual battle between light and darkness. Some Americans stand by him no matter what Donald Trump says or does. They overlook the unprecedented events of January 6th, his crude bragging about women, and his bizarre remarks on public figures. They dismiss his pride in overturning…

By Doni Glover, Publisher (BALTIMORE – October 27, 2024) – The energy in West Baltimore is nothing short of inspiring. Along West North Avenue, from North & Mt. Royal to North & Hilton, community groups are rallying around nearly $30 million in new investments poised to reshape the area. This level of collaboration and investment is unprecedented for West North Avenue. Unlike the Baltimore Empowerment Zone, which only included parts of the avenue, this initiative focuses entirely on revitalizing this vital corridor. It will bring much-needed funds that, if well-managed, can significantly uplift the area. A standout feature of this…

By Doni Glover, Publisher (BALTIMORE – October 13, 2024)—It was overwhelming. To see so many examples of Black excellence is truly a treat for this “unapologetically Black” news publisher/marketing CEO/3x author. Despite the negativity bombarding our community regularly, I witnessed three powerful examples of Black unity. As far as I know, there were no TV cameras or reporters. ‘Everyday people’ were out there making a difference because they cared. It started with our Black Wall Street event at the Black Swan, a Black-owned business at 1302 Fleet Street. The room was packed as phenomenal Black entrepreneurs and business professionals were…

(BALTIMORE – October 5, 2024) – For over three decades, I’ve been reporting on events and developments within the Black community, starting right here in Sandtown – a historic 72-block neighborhood in the heart of West Baltimore. My journey in journalism began with my earliest memories at my family’s funeral home on Patterson Park and Lanvale around 1968. Since then, my work has taken me from East Baltimore and East New York to the Middle East and East Africa. I’ve covered the White House numerous times, hosted the longest-running customized show in Radio One history, and appeared nationally on TV…

By Doni Glover, Publisher (BALTIMORE – September 30, 2023) – There’s a reason many people still reflect on the accomplishments of Washington, D.C.’s “Mayor for Life,” Marion Barry. He was first the jobs man. He helped people get gainful employment long before he entered the political realm. When he finally got into politics, he had a long track record of serving the people. So, helping to create new Black millionaires merely continued his career-long efforts to help empower the Black community. Atlanta had Mayor Maynard Jackson. Many reflect on how he ensured that Black businesses got a piece of the…

By Doni Glover, Publisher (BALTIMORE – September 29, 2024) – With all due respect, having grown up in the funeral industry, I do not prefer to have to go to a funeral. I swear I don’t. At the same time, I get that nudge every now and then. I have had some dear friends go home, especially as of late. COVID took many people I know out of here. One was Mr. Edward Hooks, my mentor. Another was one of my favorite aunts, Lois Glover. I just could not bring myself to go to either one. I know I disappointed…

(BALTIMORE – September 22, 2024) – I’m not quite sure what to think of this country at this point. On one hand, there are some decent Republicans who have demonstrated common sense. According to Newsweek, an assembly of 111 prominent figures, including former defense secretaries Chuck Hagel and William S. Cohen, ex-CIA directors Michael V. Hayden and William H. Webster, and other former officials, signed a letter opposing Donald Trump. Notable signatories include former World Bank president Robert B. Zoellick, ex-director of national intelligence John D. Negroponte, and former Massachusetts Governor William F. Weld. Further, former Trump administration officials Miles…

(BALTIMORE – September 14, 2024) – Born Howard Beverly on December 6, 1946, in Philadelphia, Frankie Beverly was a jewel to many in Black America. I grew up on his songs. I know the words in his music as well as anybody else, and he will always have a place in my heart. The great performer got his wings this week and will surely be missed. His “LIVE in New Orleans” album is probably my all-time favorite. It’s interesting how his music could set any cookout on fire. Most everybody would “feel the feelin.’” “There ain’t no way that I…