Shows
MiddayAn executive order threatens NPR's funds. Are Baltimore's WYPR and WTMD at risk?Late Thursday, President Donald Trump issued an executive order directing the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, CPB, to end its funding of NPR and PBS.
It is not clear that the president has the authority to make such orders to CPB under the law, according to NPR's reporting.
President Trump has long criticized public media, accusing the news organizations with political bias. PBS President and CEO Paula Kerger called the move a "blatantly unlawful Executive Order, issued in the middle of the night."
What does this mean for local affiliates of NPR, like Baltimore's WYPR and WTMD, which receive funding from...
2025-05-0210 min
MiddayMidday Mini-Concerts: Helicon and Friends at WYPRHelicon and a plethora of other artists are set to present their 39th annual Winter Solstice Concerts at Goucher College tomorrow, December 21. For many of the past 39 years, the group preview their performance on WYPR.
Helicon is set to be joined by Ken and Brad Kolodner Quartet, Charm City Junction, Scottish National Fiddle Champion Elke Baker, Six-time North American Step-Dance Champion Jonathon Srour, step-dancers Claire Shirey and Katie Ortel. The vocalist Evangeline Norman will also return to the mix after making her Winter Solstice Concert Debut last year,
Many of those performers joins Midday today, where they are set to...
2024-12-2042 minMiddayWYPR's Gabe Ortis talks 'Survivor' and Baltimore sportsThe season finale of Survivor 47 aired last night on CBS. The winner was Rachel LaMont, a graphic designer from Michigan, but Baltimore’s favorite contestant was WYPR's on-air host Gabe Ortis.
On Survivor, he competed valiantly, and took home an amazing experience and great stories.
2024-12-1924 minMiddayWYPR's new on-air team: Taylor Holbrooks and Marquis LuptonIt has been a busy year in news, and you might have noticed new voices on WYPR reporting on the latest happenings.
Marquis Lupton provides the local news you need to know during the afternoons, during Fresh Air, Here and Now, and All Things Considered.
Taylor Holbrooks is the new local host of Morning Edition.
The pair join us to introduce themselves and talk about what brought them to WYPR.
2024-12-1907 minMiddayWYPR's reporters look back at a consequential year in newsAs 2024 draws to a close, we round up a busy year covering the headlines.
WYPR reporters take us behind the microphone as they recount covering the stories that made 2024 unforgettable. Scott Maucione was on the scene in the aftermath of the catastrophic collapse of the Key Bridge into the Patapsco River.
And, John Lee spoke to locals who remember the 60th anniversary of Beatlemania in Baltimore, when the worldwide superstars made their first and only appearance in 1964 in Charm City.
These stories and more from our reporters on the ground.
2024-12-1826 min
On The RecordAre Maryland's pre-kindergarten programs on track?The General Assembly passed the “Blueprint for Maryland’s Future” back in 2021, a law mandating more funding for schools, higher salaries for teachers, and a series of reforms aimed at better serving our state’s students. The first pillar of the Blueprint is Early Childhood Education and the law requires a major expansion of pre-kindergarten programs. How is it going? We ask Maya Lora, an early childhood education reporter with WYPR’s partner the Baltimore Banner.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Seni...
2024-11-1812 min
On The RecordElection 2024 reactionAs most of the nation shifted to the right, Maryland stayed predictably blue, and chose Democrats for its job openings in Washington: In addition to Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobooks prevailing over Republican former Gov. Larry Hogan to represent the Free State in the U.S. Senate. Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski won a seat in Congress, as did State Senator Sarah Elfreth of Anne Arundel County. To help us better understand what Maryland voters were saying, we speak with UMBC political scientist Mileah Kromer; Lisa Snowden, editor in chief of Baltimore Beat; and Jo...
2024-11-0624 minOn The RecordHealth Headlines: Drug costs, coverage for DACA recipients, and moreThe cost of prescription drugs…eligibility for Maryland’s health insurance marketplace…coping with consequences of hurricanes. Headlines about health abound. We talk recent health news with WYPR reporter Scott Maucione. Links: Abuse survivors just settled for $880 million in LA, what does that mean for Baltimore Archdiocese victims? | WYPR Maryland DACA recipients eligible for state health coverage starting in November Maryland hospitals urged to conserve IV fluids during shortage | WYPR Maryland drug affordability board gets OK to set upper payment limits | WYPR Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitc...
2024-10-2310 min
On The RecordBallot questions: What Baltimore County voters need to knowBaltimore County’s population has tripled since the 1950s. Will voters decide to add seats to the county council? WYPR's John Lee gives us the run-down on Baltimore County ballot questions. Links:Baltimore County: What’s on the ballot?Baltimore City ballot questions: A breakdownDo you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/hi...
2024-10-1412 minOn The RecordStories from the Stoop: Beetle-mania Zoe Bell shares a Stoop story about a tumultuous relationship with a Volkswagen Beetle. The next Stoop show is Tuesday, October 15th at Checkerspot Brewing Company in South Baltimore. The theme is, "See Beyond: Stories about disrupting prejudices and preconceived notions.” Proceeds will be donated to the Maryland School for the Blind.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-2...
2024-10-1106 min
On The RecordFranciscan Center's Dignity Plates: A recipe for successFor 140 years Baltimore’s Franciscan Center has responded to community needs -- from food and clothing to counseling and dental care. Now they offer Dignity Plates Culinary Training Academy, which gives people skills and confidence that leads to employment and can transform lives. We talk with instructor Chef April Dubose, and with cohort 11 students Detrich Jordan, Shakera Murphy, Harry Lowe, Kimberly Wynn, Linda Hazelwood, and cohort 6 graduate Tiffany Jordan. Links: Franciscan Center, Dignity Plates Culinary Training Academy.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Rec...
2024-10-0925 minOn The RecordOctober 7 attack anniversary stirs renewed desire for peaceA year after the Hamas attack and hostage-taking in Israel, we check in with Sumayyah Bilal and Rebekka Paisner, two friends who create space and dialogue for people of all faiths, especially Muslim and Jewish, to deal with the pain of the war. Their upcoming event, Visions of Peace, happens on Oct. 22 at 7pm, location TBD. Check here for updated information.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Pr...
2024-10-0714 minOn The RecordBaltimore City ballot questions: A breakdownMaryland voters will weigh in on a handful of ballot questions next month, some carrying major implications for the Free State’s future. WYPR reporter Emily Hofstaedter gives an overview on several that will be of concern especially for Baltimore City residents. Links: Baltimore City, County and State Ballot Questions. Editor's note: The original airing of this episode had an incorrect reference to a Baltimore City ballot question. The audio has been corrected for accuracy.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Rec...
2024-10-0710 minOn The RecordStories from the Stoop: A runaway fiancé!Here’s a Stoop Story from Brian Jolles about a memorable dinner, a thoughtful waiter, and a run-away date. The next Stoop show is Tuesday, October 15th at Checkerspot Brewing Company in Baltimore. The theme is: See Beyond: Stories about disrupting prejudices and preconceived notions.” Ticket proceeds will be donated to the Maryland School for the Blind.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/h...
2024-10-0410 minOn The RecordDockworkers' union suspends strikeLast night, the International Longshoremen’s Association reached an agreement that extends the union contract until Jan.15 -- raising salaries and giving the two sides 90 days to work out other issues. The deal was struck after three days of a strike that affected getting cargo on and off ships at 14 East Coast and Gulf Coast ports from Maine to Texas. The strike threatened to cause shortages and raise prices -- and for workers, it promised to be especially painful in Baltimore, where longshoremen and others suffered months out of work after the Key Bridge collapsed in March. W...
2024-10-0414 min
On The RecordReligious scholar uncovers the 'spiritual warriors' threatening DemocracyImages and video of the January 6th insurrection reveal the role Christian nationalism played in motivating rioters. The crowd storming the U.S. Capitol carried crosses, as well as signs and flags with Christian iconography. A new book takes a deep look at a lesser-known evangelical Christian movement deeply connected to the events of January 6th - the New Apostolic Reformation. Matthew Taylor is a senior scholar and the Protestant scholar at the Institute for Islamic, Christian, and Jewish Studies. His new book is: “The Violent Take it by Force: The Christian Movement That Is Threatening Our...
2024-10-0213 minOn The RecordCommunity center in Frederick welcomes immigrantsFor two decades, Centro Hispano de Frederick has welcomed the immigrant community in Frederick County. Centro Hispano de Frederick is primarily led by volunteers, and provides services ranging from English classes to legal clinics. It also serves as a friendly space where people from other countries can learn and prosper. We speak with Executive Director Suzanne Salichs, and hear from Evelyn Rodriguez, a participant in Años Dorados, and Rosalie Piña, a student in the Éxito program. This Saturday, Frederick’s Hispanic Heritage Festival will be held along Carroll Creek in Downtown Frederick from noon...
2024-10-0211 min
On The RecordStories from the Stoop: Family secret revealedHere’s a Stoop Story from K.C. about the transformation that can come from learning a family secret. More information about live Stoop events and the Stoop podcast at Stoopstorytelling.comDo you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his sbdawes@wypr.org 410-235-1472]]>
2024-09-2708 minOn The Record'American Teenager: How Trans Kids Are Surviving Hate and Finding Joy in a Turbulent Era'We celebrate this weekend’s return of the Baltimore Book Festival with a talk featuring journalist Nico Lang whose book “American Teenager: How Trans Kids Are Surviving Hate and Finding Joy in a Turbulent Era" chronicles the lives of trans kids around the country. The author spent nine months following the lives of eight trans, non-binary, and gender-fluid teens - and their families. The book explores some of the complexities of growing up trans. Lang will be speaking at 1pm on Sat. Sept. 28, as part of the Baltimore Book Festival, more info here.Do you have a que...
2024-09-2715 minOn The RecordAfter her grandmother’s death, a filmmaker travels to China for connectionWe speak with Nicole Chi, a Costa Rican-Chinese writer, director, and producer. Chi is the creative force behind the documentary, “Guián,” and the short film, “Los Mosquitos.” Both films will be shown next week at the New/Next Film Festival, produced by Baltimore Public Media. More than 80 titles from around the world will be screened at the Charles Theater.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Ge...
2024-09-2511 min
On The RecordMarylanders wait up to a year for a disability benefits decision. We ask Social Security chief Martin O'Malley why.As commissioner of Social Security, Martin O’Malley is applying the same data-drive management tools he used as mayor of Baltimore and governor of Maryland. We ask about backlogs and whether Social Security is running out of money. Links:Hearing on Protecting Solvency of Social SecurityMartin O’Malley is on a one-year sprint to save Social SecurityStatement of Administrative PolicyDo you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org...
2024-09-2514 minOn The RecordWill updated COVID vaccines slow a winter surge in Maryland?COVID-19 is no longer a pandemic - the CDC considers it an endemic disease - but COVID is still dangerous, and the disease keeps on changing and spreading. So, how can we best prepare ourselves? For answers, we’re joined by virologist Dr. Andy Pekosz of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Yesterday, the Baltimore City Health Department announced it will hold vaccination clinics with the updated COVID-19 vaccine at no cost to the uninsured. Links:When Should I Get My COVID/Flu Shot? And Other Queries To Kick off Respiratory Viru...
2024-09-2014 minOn The RecordStories from the Stoop: The gift of family timeHere’s a Stoop Story from Jen Diamond about emerging from the pandemic. Listen to more from Stoop Storytelling Series. Check out the podcast and schedule of upcoming events.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his sbdawes@wypr.org 410-235-1472]]>
2024-09-2005 min
MiddayWYPR's new radio host is also a 'Survivor'Gabe Ortis is the newest addition to our staff of on-air personalities. He brings a wealth of previous experience of work in radio, politics to the position. Also on his resume; starring in a reality television show. Ortis is a contestant on a the new season of Survivor, which premieres tonight. Ortis joins Midday to talk about being a castaway and what its like to compete on one of television's oldest reality programs. (Photo courtesy CBS Entertainment)Email us at midday@wypr.org, tweet us: @MiddayWYPR, or call us at 410-662...
2024-09-1813 min
On The RecordBSEC creates data bank of Baltimore's environmental healthThe Baltimore Social-Environmental Collaborative (BSEC) brings together scientists, researchers and neighbors to take a deep dive into the ecological health of the city. For years they’ve collected data measuring the health of the air, soil, plants and trees across many neighborhoods -- all in hopes to make equitable environmental decisions to combat the effects of climate change. To find out how it's going we talk with Ben Zaitchik, chair and professor in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at Johns Hopkins University and BSEC lead scientist and with Kelly Cross, president of the Old Goucher Community Ass...
2024-09-1816 minOn The RecordSocial or solitary? The secret lives of migratory songbirdsNew research from the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science suggests that songbirds of different feathers flock together during their migrations… and there’s a lot to learn about these multi-species relationships. For insight, we’re joined by migratory ecologist Joely Desimone, an assistant research scientist at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science’s Appalachian Laboratory. Link:Migratory bird species found to be socially oriented | University of Maryland Center for Environmental ScienceDo you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Reco...
2024-09-1314 minOn The RecordStories from the Stoop: Baring it at the beachHere’s a Stoop Story from Kelly Harris about a memorable trip to Greece. On September 21st and 22nd, the Stoop Storytelling Series will share tales on the theme, “Keepers of Culture: Stories about people who inspire and enlighten,” at the Maryland Folk Festival. And on September 27th, the Green Room in Baltimore will host an evening dedicated to the theme: “Neighbors: Stories of Friends, Foes, and the Fences In Between.” Check out the Stoop podcast.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On...
2024-09-1303 minOn The RecordDJS's Thrive Academy lifts youth up and out of the juvenile justice systemJuvenile crime overall has declined. But to change the course of the young people caught up in gun violence -- either as victims or perpetrators -- Thrive Academy surrounds them with support -- life coaches who help them figure things out. We talk with Pastor Ebony Harvin and Bilal Rahman, two life coaches for Thrive, and with Secretary Vincent Schiraldi, the head of the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services. Links: Thrive Academy, We Our Us, Thrive Academy Life Coach application. Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Co...
2024-09-1125 minOn The RecordBaltimore City has big plans for opioid restitution fundsThree times as many people are dying from opioids as a decade ago. Baltimore City sued on behalf of those lives lost, and to combat overdose deaths in the future: The city has won more than $242 million dollars in restitution so far. We ask Interim Deputy Mayor J.D. Merrill, and Sara Whaley, Program Director of the Bloomberg Overdose Prevention Initiative at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, how it will be spent. Links: Baltimore City Opioid Restitution Fund, Overview of Mayor Brandon Scott's executive order, Restitution Advisory Board Application, Comments or Questions, 988 substance...
2024-09-0617 minOn The RecordStories from the Stoop: Overcoming addictionHere's a Stoop Story from Michael Furr about bottoming out -- and living to tell about it. If you, or someone you know needs help with substance abuse, you can call the 9-8-8 lifeline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or go to this link.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he...
2024-09-0606 min
On The RecordNew portal helps State Board of Election combat disinformationAdministering elections has always been important. The stakes are high to get it right. For decades, the high stakes mostly weren’t linked to high tension. But these days, as so many Americans insist the 2020 presidential election was stolen, election workers in some battleground states face threats and harassment. We speak with Jared DeMarinis, Maryland state administrator of elections, about election security and combatting mis- and disinformation. The deadline to register to vote online or by mail is about six weeks away: Oct. 15. Early voting is set for the last week in October, Oct. 24 through 31. Election day...
2024-09-0410 minOn The RecordThe youngest voters are part of Gen Z. What are their politics?Behind the Silent Generation, the Baby Boomers, Gen X, and the Millenials are the Zoomers: the 70 million Americans who make up Generation Z. This group includes the country's youngest voters. A new book, titled, “The Politics of Gen Z: How the Youngest Voters Will Shape Our Democracy,” takes a close look at their political motivations and ambitions. Author Melissa Deckman is the chief executive officer of PRRI, the Public Religion Research Institute.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Super...
2024-09-0414 minOn The Record'Beats Not Bullets' is a positive force for these Baltimore City studentsWhen there are dozens of ways that youth can be led astray, seduced by social media or maybe more dangerous fascinations, how do you capture their minds and hearts? ‘Beats Not Bullets’ teaches middle- and high-school students skills in the music recording industry as a way to keep them focused on positive activities and lead them toward healthy life choices. Rich Croce and Brandon Lackey, who help run the program, explain how it works. Links: Beats Not Bullets, BNB Application form, MC Bravado music, The LineUp Room, Label Necklace, record label, music video 'Belief'.Do yo...
2024-08-3013 minOn The RecordStories from the Stoop: Labor of loveHere’s a Stoop Story from Natasha Tylea about putting in the work … honing her craft … and owning it -- no matter who is in the room. Find more information about Stoop Storytelling, including the Stoop podcast, Stoop Specials and Stoop live events at Stoopstorytelling.com.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his sbdawe...
2024-08-3011 min
On The RecordBaltimore's SquashWise motivates youth on and off the courtsFor a group of Baltimore middle and high school students, squash is more than a vegetable! They participate in SquashWise. The non-profit melds the fast-paced game with personal development and academic excellence. We hear from Abby Markoe, co-founder and executive director, and visit the courts to hear from some of the coaches and students. Links: Community SquashWise sign up, Squash with Your Squad sign up, Greyhound project, Youth Develop Programs.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie...
2024-08-2825 minOn The RecordStories from the Stoop: When softball is more than a gameHere's a Stoop Story from retired Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Pamela White about holding her own as a young lawyer, and taking one for the team. There are two LIVE stoop storytelling events coming up: ‘Keepers of Culture: Stories About People Who Inspire and Enlighten’ will be part of the Maryland Folk Festival in Salisbury next month: Saturday, September 21 and Sunday, September 22. And on Friday Sept. 27 the theme is: ‘Neighbors: Stories of Friends, Foes, and the Fences In Between’.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch...
2024-08-2307 minOn The RecordBaltimore's AFRO News covered the real 'Lady in the Lake'Laura Lippman's novel and the Apple TV series 'Lady in the Lake’ fictionalized the real stories of two tragic deaths in 1969 Baltimore. How their stories were told hinged on which media outlet told them. Baltimore’s Afro News publisher, Dr. Frances 'Toni' Draper, lived through the coverage; she reflects on how reporting on Black communities has changed -- and how it hasn’t. Links: AFRO archival images, AFRO recent reporting on Shirley Parker's story.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervi...
2024-08-2317 min
On The RecordBlueprint grants fund cognitive training, telehealth therapy for Howard County studentsAcross the state, the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future is funding 129 grants totaling $111 million dollars aimed at supporting hundreds of thousands of students with behavioral health screenings, addiction treatment, counseling, family support, wraparound services, and more. This morning, we’ll learn about two of the grants in Howard County public schools. First, Dr. Bruce Wexler is the neuroscientist behind "Activate," an approach that helps kids improve focus, self-control, and working memory using a mix of online games and physical exercises. Activate is backed by BrainFutures, a nonprofit subsidiary of the Mental Health Association of Maryland. Then, Backpa...
2024-08-2124 min
On The RecordStories from the Stoop: A passion for teachingHere’s a Stoop Story from Lou Smith, who talked about his passion for teaching at event co-hosted by the Maryland School for the Blind. The next Stoop show is tonight at 7 pm at Manor Mill. The theme is, “Rose Colored Glasses: Stories of Summertime Nostalgia.” Check out the Stoop podcast.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410...
2024-08-1609 minOn The RecordMaryland Equips distributes free medical equipment, assistive technologyA wheelchair or high-tech communications device can cost thousands -- often not covered by insurance. Maryland Equips is an innovative state project that accepts and distributes medical equipment for free. We speak with Lori Berrong, executive director of the Assistive Technology Program within the Maryland Department of Disabilities, and clients Justin Hack and Sarah Starr. Links:Maryland EquipsMaryland Durable Medical Equipment Re-UseMaryland Accessible TelecommunicationsDo you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Har...
2024-08-1617 minOn The RecordTwo approaches to transforming abandoned buildings in Baltimore CityThirteen thousand abandoned buildings and even more vacant lots blemish Baltimore City. We talk with Sean Closkey, president of ReBUILD Metro. The nonprofit has transformed more than 500 abandoned buildings and lots in East Baltimore, all led by neighbor input. And Onyx Development’s Rian Hargrave believes access to quality homes in safe neighborhoods is a human right. She tells us how she's working to make it reality for more people in Baltimore City. Links: ReBUILD Metro planning, Onyx Development, Baltimore City Vacants Property Reduction Strategy, a plan to eradicate vacants within 15 years.Do you ha...
2024-08-1425 min
On The RecordMaryland author Michelle Paris: "Eat Dessert First"What happens when an up-and-coming Philadelphia architect moves home to Ellicott City -- to take a job as a baker? Which lets her care for her frail mother, but doesn’t do much for her love life ...? We ask author Michelle Paris about her latest book, "Eat Dessert First."Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he...
2024-08-0911 minOn The RecordStories from the Stoop: Owning it!Today we offer TWO Stoop stories: One from Christine Harazim about embracing every inch of who you are! And one from Katie Hileman about the power that comes with being comfortable in your own skin. This Sunday Aug. 11 you can tune into the Summer Escapades Stoop Special at 4pm and 11pm on WYPR 88.1fm or at wypr.orgDo you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr...
2024-08-0914 minOn The RecordTracking pandemic recovery across Baltimore's neighborhoodsIt will take years to untangle the many ways in which the pandemic affected life in Baltimore. From employment opportunities and educational choices to decisions about whether to buy a house or have a baby-- the only way to understand COVID’s consequences is to look at the data. We speak with Amanda Phillips de Lucas, who directs the Baltimore Neighborhood Indicators Alliance, part of the University of Baltimore's Jacob France Institute. Each year, BNIA publishes its Vital Signs report, which brings together more than 100 indicators - like household size or unemployment rate - to create a sn...
2024-08-0725 min
On The RecordStories from the Stoop: A boating blunder on the Bay!Here’s a Stoop Story from Kelly Meekins about getting stranded with her family. The next Stoop show is two weeks from tonight: August 16th at Manor Mill in Monkton. The theme is “Rose Colored Glasses: Stories of Summertime Nostalgia.” Check out the Stoop podcast.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his sb...
2024-08-0208 minOn The RecordEscalating heat waves put public health at riskFourteen Marylanders have died of heat-related causes this year. As climate change drives up the intensity and duration of heat waves, what can public officials do? Hopkins epidemiologist Jaime Madrigano offers insight and solutions.Links:Maryland Department of Health Office of Preparedness and Response579 - How to Be a Climate Change Advocate: Making Sure Public Health is Part of the Climate Change EquationClimate Change Indicators: Heat Waves | US EPADo you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: S...
2024-08-0216 min
On The RecordMaryland Port Administrator Jonathan Daniels on the return of cargo to BaltimoreIt’s been seven weeks since the Port of Baltimore reopened. More than 50,000 tons of debris blocked the shipping channel after the cargo ship Dali collided with the Key Bridge on March 26th. Six construction workers died in the bridge’s collapse. Where is cargo volume today? Has the port been able to retain customers? We ask Jonathan Daniels, executive director of the Maryland Port Administration.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/he...
2024-07-3114 minOn The RecordTaller? Safer? What will the Key Bridge's replacement look like?Completed in 1977, the Francis Scott Key Bridge was an iconic fixture in Baltimore’s horizon. Its collapse at 1:28 a.m. March 26th took the lives of six maintenance-crew workers and tore apart a vital link connecting the region. What will the bridge’s replacement look like? Hayes Gardner is an enterprise reporter for The Baltimore Sun. He’s been covering the Key Bridge collapse and clean-up and the plans to rebuild. Links:New Key Bridge expected to be 24% taller than predecessor, with 230 feet of vertical clearanceIn wake of Key Bridge collapse, Marylan...
2024-07-3110 minOn The RecordBaltimore-born Cass Elliot: Rock star, devoted mom, independent thinkerFor many, the memorable element of the singing group The Mamas and the Papas was Cass Elliot’s clear contralto. Cass Elliot was born Ellen Naomi Cohen in Baltimore in 1941, attended Forest Park High School in Northwest Baltimore, and left high school six weeks before graduation to find her show business fortune in New York. She was 32 when she died of a heart attack in London after a brilliant run at the Palladium in late July 1974. Her daughter, Owen Elliot-Kugell, was 7 years old when her mother died, and has just published a memoir, "My Mama, Cass." We talk wi...
2024-07-2618 minOn The RecordStories from the Stoop: Pool time!Here's a Stoop Story from Susan Kim about surviving childhood embarrassment … and living to tell about it! Find more information about the Stoop Storytelling Series - including live events coming soon, and the Stoop podcast - at Stoopstorytelling.comDo you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his sbdawes@wypr.org 410-235-1472]]>
2024-07-2607 minOn The RecordPresident Biden's legacy and the path to Election DayOn Sunday, President Biden ended his bid for reelection with just over 100 days until Election Day. His endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris is historic; she is the first Black woman and Asian-American person to lead a major party ticket. What does this decision mean for President Biden's legacy and the remainder of his term? What do Democrats and Republicans need to do to cement voters' support by November 5th? We speak with Susan Page, the Washington Bureau chief of USA TODAY. She's covered a dozen presidential campaigns and seven White House administrations. She joins us fr...
2024-07-2411 minOn The RecordBaltimore-based Black Girls Vote kicks into high gearVice President Kamala Harris is the Democratic party’s likely nominee for president. We speak with Natasha Murphy Chief of Staff for Black Girls Vote, a nonpartisan nonprofit focused on outreach to young Black women. She talks about the wave of renewed momentum by young voters, and some of the concerns Black women have for the potential campaigning ahead. Links: Black Girls Vote, Baltimore Votes, Maryland voter registration info, Our Time is Now BGV event on 7.24.24, 9 p.m. register here.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Co...
2024-07-2413 min
On The RecordMaryland's Ms. Agvocate USA wants to educate folks about their foodDo you ever wonder about who produced the food you enjoy each day? Lindsey Jacobs, Ms. Agvocate USA, wants the public to better understand the farmer to table connection. We learn more in a visit to her Church View Farm. Links: Ms. Agvocate USA, Church View Farm, Cow Week on Maryland Public TV.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr...
2024-07-1914 minOn The RecordStories from the Stoop: Goodness gracious, goats!Here's a Stoop Story from Geoffrey Danek, about the bond that can grow between man and beast. Find more information about the Stoop Storytelling Series -- including live events happening soon, and the Stoop podcast -- at Stoopstorytelling.com Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his sbdawes@wypr.org 410-235-1472...
2024-07-1912 min
On The RecordMaryland nonprofit helps borrowers navigate student loan repaymentIt’s hard to know where to turn for financial advice, and recent changes and challenges to federal student loan forgiveness and repayment programs have added another layer of complexity. We speak with Tisa Silver Canady, founder of the Maryland Center for Collegiate Financial Wellness. The MCCFW is holding a virtual symposium on July 23rd. Registration information here. Links:Federal Student AidKnow More Owe LessMCCFW Office HoursDo you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Sup...
2024-07-1712 minOn The RecordThe Blueprint for Maryland's Future propels college and career readinessGetting students ready for college or a career is one of five pillars of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, the ambitious, expensive ten-year project to make the Free State’s public schools as good as any in the world. We get a progress report from chancellor emeritus of the University System of Maryland William ‘Brit’ Kirwan. He led the effort that created the Blueprint and serves as vice chair of its Accountability and Implementation Board. Links:Blueprint Pillar 3: College and Career ReadinessAIB Pillar 3: College and Career ReadinessMaryland State Board of Educatio...
2024-07-1714 minOn The RecordStories from the Stoop: The show must go on!Here's a Stoop Story from Jay Herzog about surviving the hazards of theater … and still having the career to tell about it! Visit Stoop Storytelling.com for information, including live events and the Stoop podcast.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his sbdawes@wypr.org 410-235-1472]]>
2024-07-1210 minMiddayDr. Ben Chavis goes looking for the bright side in new WYPR feature, 'The Good News'A new feature on WYPR seeks to highlight the bright side of the news headlines and celebrates the good in all of us. The Good News, hosted by former head of the NAACP Dr. Benjamin Chavis will broadcast on WYPR and WTMD. The daily radio commentary and headline news review will seek to offer timely and unique perspective on the headline news of the day across America and throughout the world. Chavis joins Midday host Tom Hall to discuss the show's launch.Email us at midday@wypr.org, tweet us: @MiddayWYPR, or call...
2024-06-0310 min
MiddayNews Wrap: City Council elections and Johns Hopkins protestsOn this week's edition of the Midday News Wrap, Tom begins with a conversation on the most competitive City Council races with Baltimore Banner Reporter Hallie Miller. We also get the latest on the City Council President candidates with WYPR Reporter Wambui Kamau and explore the pro-Palestinian protests on John Hopkins' campus with WYPR Reporter Bri Hatch. Photo Credit: Emily Hofstaedter/WYPREmail us at midday@wypr.org, tweet us: @MiddayWYPR, or call us at 410-662-8780.
2024-05-1037 min
MiddayAs primary fast approaches, WYPR, WJZ-TV and The Baltimore Banner host mayoral debateThe leading candidates for Baltimore mayor took to the debate stage on Tuesday, in one of the last opportunities for voters to hear from contenders for the city government's top seat. WJZ-TV, The Baltimore Banner, WYPR Radio, and the Schaefer Center for Public Policy at the University of Baltimore organized the event on UB's main campus. Incumbent Mayor Brandon Scott, former Mayor Shelia Dixon, attorney Thiru Vignarajah and businessman Bob Wallace answered questions on public safety, city development, affordable housing and other topics. WYPR reporters John Lee, Wambui Kamau, Emily Hofstaedter discussed the...
2024-05-011h 29
On The RecordWhat do young voters care about this election season?The Baltimore News Collaborative's Youth Voter Guide is out now. The guide surveys young people and candidates about priorities this election. Baltimore Beat editor Lisa Snowden speaks with WYPR's Bri Hatch about top issues affecting youth, like the cost of housing and how Baltimore’s taxes are levied. Check out the Youth Voices section. Read responses to the candidate survey. The Baltimore News Collaborative is a local newsroom partnership exploring the challenges and successes experienced by young people in Baltimore. The collaborative is supported by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. WYPR, Baltimore Beat, The Baltimore Banne...
2024-04-2615 min
On The RecordStories from the Stoop: Pledging love and pledging allegianceIn honor of WYPR’s Spring pledge, we’re offering up not one but two stoop stories today. First, a stoop story by Rohaizad Suaidi about fierce love, sacrifice, and pledging support for an adopted country. Then we hear from Gretchen and Warren Hensel, about persistence, timing, and pledging your heart to someone before it’s too late!Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Produc...
2024-04-1915 minOn The RecordPort aid, racetrack bills pass as General Assembly 2024 session endsHours after the Maryland General Assembly adjourns, we speak with two journalists who covered it: WYPR's News Director Matt Bush and Pamela Wood of The Baltimore Banner. Lawmakers reached a budget compromise. What new taxes and fees can consumers expect? Juvenile justice was revisited; will longer probation reduce crime? What's the future of Pimlico Race Course? Plus, financial help for Port workers. Links:Here’s what your Maryland lawmakers did this yearMaryland lawmakers wrap work after budget dispute, fatal bridge collapseMaryland PORT Act would give financial relief to businesses, workers imp...
2024-04-0924 min
On The RecordShannon Sneed shares vision for City Council presidencyShannon Sneed is a former Baltimore City Councilwoman running in the Democratic primary for City Council president. What did she learn from representing East Baltimore? What are her priorities if elected? What would she do to limit the economic impact of shutting the port? Find more WYPR coverage of the 2024 Primary Election. Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.o...
2024-04-0325 minOn The RecordTom Perez says President Biden will work 'hand in glove' with state to respond to bridge collapseThe disruption at the port will likely boost inflation, but Tom Perez, senior adviser to President Biden and former candidate in the 2022 Democratic primary for Maryland governor, said the focus now is finding the bodies of those who died. Find more WYPR coverage of the Francis Scott key Bridge collapse. Photo caption: White House advisor Tom Perez speaks at a press conference on the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 27, 2024. Credit: Governor Wes Moore's YouTube pageDo you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea t...
2024-04-0211 min
On The RecordMaryland longshoremen's livelihoods at stakeWe go On the Record with Scott Cowan, president of the International Longshoreman’s Association Local 333, to ask what shutting down the Port of Baltimore means for workers, and with WYPR reporter Scott Maucione to ask about the timeline for reopening. Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his sbdawes@wypr.org 410-235-14...
2024-03-2814 minMiddayA WYPR Live Special on the Key bridge collapseIn a special Midday evening broadcast, Tom recaps the events of the day in the search and rescue mission regarding the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse. In the early hours Tuesday morning, a cargo ship leaving the port of Baltimore crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge, wrapping the ship in a tangled mass of steel, and plunging most of the bridge structure into the Patapsco River within seconds. In audio of a police scanner recorded minutes before the crash, we hear first responders rushing to evacuate workers from the bridge and to stop incoming...
2024-03-2628 min
On The RecordLittle access to treatment for Maryland youth charged as adultsEach year in Maryland, hundreds of young teens accused of breaking the law are charged as adults. Judges could send their cases to juvenile court, but one third of the time they don’t. WYPR’s Rachel Baye has investigated how judges decide … and the dire results for many kids. Read the investigation by WYPR and APM Reports: Judges use ‘arbitrary,’ ‘horrendous’ reasons to keep teens in adult courtDo you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers m...
2024-03-2026 minOn The RecordLegislative update: MD lawmakers grapple with taxes, juvenile justice, health careMaryland’s legislature will wrap up its work this year in three-and-a-half weeks. What will it have done, and how will it affect residents of the Free State? The most fundamental task of any legislative session--even if it doesn’t claim the most headlines--is to pass a budget that’s balanced: which means expected tax revenues high enough to pay for what the state plans to spend. There’s a tug-of-war right now between the House and Senate about taxes. We’re talking about that and other important legislation this morning with WYPR News Director Matt Bush...
2024-03-1414 min
MiddayWYPR Reporters' Year End Newswrap 2023Today on Midday, a year-end edition of Newswrap. The WYPR news team joins me to talk about some of the big stories they’ve covered in 2023. We talk to the reporters who covered changes in voting laws, the election of Gov. Wes Moore, Baltimore's inclusionary housing law and the devastating mass shooting in Brooklyn Homes, south Baltimore. Photo Credit: @iamwesmoore via X.Email us at midday@wypr.org, tweet us: @MiddayWYPR, or call us at 410-662-8780.
2023-12-2138 minOn The RecordSeries on Baltimore after-school programs highlights efforts to entertain, keep kids safeA rich web of nonprofits serves young people in Baltimore, working in schools and neighborhoods to keep kids engaged in positive activities. We speak with Bri Hatch, who covers education for WYPR, about a new collaborative journalism project to examine the challenges and successes experienced by young people in our region.Links:Baltimore nonprofit aims to curb youth crime with citywide after-school programsBudding Baltimore nonprofit helps youth realize their untapped potentialDo you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the...
2023-11-2209 minOn The RecordBaltimore City conducted an internal probe into the Brooklyn Day mass shooting. What did it find?Poor planning, too few connections in the community, not enough patrolling. An internal “after-action report” says these factors contributed to July’s mass shooting in Brooklyn, which killed two. What will police do to prevent such tragedies? We speak with WYPR reporter Emily Hofstaedter, who’s been closely following the Brooklyn shooting and its aftermath, and Ben Conark, criminal justice reporter for our news partner, The Baltimore Banner. Links:City of Baltimore Releases Agency After-Action Reports Following Mass Shooting at Brooklyn HomesBaltimore recommends “leadership changes” for BPD in Brooklyn shooting After-Action ReportResidents...
2023-09-0820 min
On The RecordA psychiatrist's advice on children's mental health. Plus, bus routes in disarray as the new school year begins.The start of the school year can be an anxious time for kids. How can parents offer reassurance? When are back-to-school jitters something more serious? We ask psychiatrist Dr. Justine Larson, who serves as medical director of schools and residential treatment centers for Sheppard Pratt. Plus, Baltimore Banner education reporter Liz Bowie on test scores, bus routes, and school renovations. Read more:Thousands of Howard County students stranded without bus service this weekHistoric Baltimore high schools are getting a face-lift. Parents and alumni want more.Maryland schools recovered from pandemic learning losse...
2023-08-3025 minOn The RecordMTA Administrator Holly Arnold on the revival of Baltimore's Red LineA Red Line revival is underway. Baltimore’s east-west transit project was canceled in 2015. Now Gov. Moore is bringing it back. How different will the new plan be? Will it use light rail or rapid buses in their own lanes? We ask MTA Administrator Holly Arnold. Check out the Red Line website, including a presentation from the open houses. Read more about the Red Line:Hope for the Red Line is high — so is skepticism - The Baltimore BannerA new bus in town; Quick Link 40 is first step in Red Line launch | WYPR
2023-08-2924 min
On The RecordStories from the Stoop: Erica ChungHere’s a Stoop Story from Erica Chung about food, love and family. Do you have a good story to share? The Stoop is looking for storytellers for their next LIVE show! The theme is The One That Got Away: Stories of Lost Loves, Fish, and Other Missed Opportunities. It takes place next month at the Manor Mill in Monkton--Sept. 14 at 7 pm -- Caleb Stein is the musical guest! More info here. And if you’re looking for some good stories to watch, check out WYPR’s New/Next Film Festival. That happens tonight through Sunday...
2023-08-1809 minOn The RecordPass the Mic: New/Next Film Fest!Today is our monthly installment of ‘Pass the Mic.’ In this series, we invite someone in the community--maybe an author, an artist, a community organizer--to collaborate with us: to choose the topic and guests and direct the conversation. Today, we pass the mic to Eric Hatch. Hatch has been working in film and curating festivals for more than two decades, including 11 years with the Maryland Film Festival. This Friday through Sunday, August 18 through 20, WYPR debuts the New/Next Film Festival, which Hatch curated. He, along with Sam Sessa, director of events and community partnerships at WTMD...
2023-08-1625 minOn The RecordStories from the Stoop: Justin FairHere's a Stoop Story from Justin Fair about embracing his fearlessness … and finding himself along the way. Find more information about the Stoop Storytelling Series -- including live events coming up, and the Stoop podcast at Stoopstorytelling.com . Pride is this week! There are lots of events including the fabulous parade that kicks off Saturday at 1:00 PM. The route begins at North Charles and 33rd Street, and heads south toward WYPR! Where there will be a welcoming committee! From 3 to 9 p.m, the Pride Block Party along Charles Street between 23rd and North Avenue will showc...
2023-06-2311 min
MiddayReporters' Notebook: Stories From WYPR's Local News TeamThe advocacy group Disability Rights Maryland has filed a lawsuit against the Maryland Department of Human Services over the housing and treatment of youth with behavioral health issues. Many are hospitalized for long periods of time, without the services they need. Rachel Baye of the WYPR news team has been covering this controversy. She joins Tom in Studio A.Email us at midday@wypr.org, tweet us: @MiddayWYPR, or call us at 410-662-8780.
2023-06-1520 minOn The RecordBaltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski on his budget, adding county council seatsOn Monday, Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski ruled out a run for the United States Senate and instead backed fellow Democrat and Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks in the race. Olszewski is in his second term as Baltimore County’s chief executive. Last month, he presented his $4.9 billion budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2024. The county council is scheduled to vote on that proposed budget a week from tomorrow. So, what’s ahead? We ask Olszewski about a raise for county employees, plans to revitalize Essex, and preventing opioid overdose deaths. Special thanks t...
2023-05-1725 min
On The RecordWriting for Baltimore's youth, by Baltimore's youthEach year, 20 middle and high school students from across Baltimore come together to create, edit and assembly writing about the experiences of local young people. CHARM: Voices of Baltimore Youth was founded by a group of teachers and their students in 2013. The students who join the CHARM team work together to create a range of different online and in-print publications. They also help design the publication and edit student submissions from across Baltimore schools. WYPR producer Sam Bermas-Dawes guest-hosts the conversation with executive director Whitney Birenbaum about CHARM's mission. Birenbaum says the student-run editorial board...
2023-05-0515 min
On The RecordRobert McCullough, Baltimore County's new police chief, shares his vision for community policingWYPR reporter John Lee guest-hosts this conversation with Robert McCullough, Baltimore County's new chief of police. Last month, McCullough became the first African-American leader of the agency. How will the 35-year department veteran improve morale on the force and address the public perception of rising crime?Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvie@wypr.org 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers mgerr@wypr.org 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him...
2023-05-0326 min
On The RecordSine Die 2023: What's left for lawmakers to tackle?As the General Assembly hurtles toward wrapping up its session, we look at what proposals are still in suspense and what’s been decided: Where does the state budget stand, including funding for schools? The structure of a new industry to sell recreational cannabis? And gun control? Guests:Pamela Wood, The Baltimore BannerBryan Sears, Maryland Matters Follow the WYPR Newsroom's coverage.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharv...
2023-04-1026 minOn The RecordFood glorious food; Serving up meals with meaningBaltimore’s food scene is chock full of creativity, innovation and good eats. The pandemic dealt a blow to many restaurants, which forced some to close … but lots have thrived and there are also many new establishments to experience. Christina Tkacik, who covers food news for The Baltimore Banner, WYPR’s online news partner, walks us through the latest restaurant openings and some new challenges facing the hospitality industry, as well as her recommendations for Restaurant Week. Plus, we hear from General Manager Melanie Molinaro and Training Program Director Ellen Levy about Groundwork Kitchen -- a new...
2023-01-2525 minOn The RecordBaltimore County works to ease the impacts of climate change; Protecting Maryland's forestsCan the actions of one county have an impact on the global effects of climate change? We hear how Baltimore County is working to mitigate climate change and produce renewable energy. We speak with Jennifer Aiosa, Baltimore County’s chief sustainability officer, and WYPR reporter John Lee. Check out John Lee's recent reporting on chronic flooding in Turner Station and methane recapture at Eastern Sanitary Landfill. Plus, Maryland is approaching its goal of no net loss of forests. Kate Everts, executive director of the Harry R. Hughes Center for Agro-Ecology, tells about a new study of...
2022-11-2926 min
On The RecordThe path ahead for recreational cannabis; Reflections of a first-time election judgeMarylanders voted overwhelmingly to legalize recreational marijuana. What now? We ask Delegate David Moon, vice chair of the House Judiciary Committee, what steps lawmakers must take to set up the industry. Then, Owings Mills civics teacher Leah Strapec reflects on her experience as a first-time election judge. Find WYPR's continuing coverage of the midterm election here. Learn more about what's ahead for recreational cannabis:Maryland’s new cannabis law will also make it easier to expunge some charges and convictionsMaryland legalized recreational marijuana. Here’s what you should know.Do you h...
2022-11-1025 min
On The RecordWes Moore will become Maryland’s first Black governorA historic election: Wes Moore is the third Black governor ever elected in the country, the first in Maryland. We’ll go On the Record with Mileah Kromer, Goucher College's chief pollster, and The Baltimore Banner’s political editor John O'Connor to talk about Moore’s rapid ascent in politics. Plus, what happened to the red wave? Find WYPR's continuing coverage of the 2022 General Election here.Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pitch? Contact On the Record at: Senior Supervising Producer, Maureen Harvie she/her/hers mharvi...
2022-11-0925 minOn The RecordAnne Arundel county executive candidates on crime, development, and taxesArundel County executive lines incumbent Democrat Steuart Pittman against Republican County Councilwoman Jessica Haire. We ask about reducing crime, getting students to school on-time, pursuing development while protecting the shoreline, and their priorities if elected. Check out this WYPR News story on polling in the race. Tomorrow evening Anne Arundel County executive candidates Steuart Pittman and Jessica Haire will participate in a debate at Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts in Annapolis. The event will also be live-streamed. Do you have a question or comment about a show or a story idea to pit...
2022-10-1725 minOn The RecordThe wave of union organizing in Baltimore and beyondMOM’s Organic Market, the Baltimore Museum of Art, the Maryland Institute College of Art. What do they have in common? Their employees voted to unionize. Huffington Post labor reporter Dave Jamieson gives us the national picture of this rise in labor organizing. In the wake of the pandemic, what protections do workers seek? How are employers responding? Then, Starbucks barista Violet Sovine and Apple employee Chaya Barrett reflect on their organizing experiences. Check out these recent WYPR news stories on union activity:State employee labor union asks Maryland spending board to oppose ‘...
2022-10-1224 minOn The RecordStories from the Stoop: Jabari LylesHere is a Stoop Story from Jabari Lyles, former Director of LGBTQ Affairs for the Office of the Mayor, about founding the Gay-Straight Alliance at Towson High School. You can listen to more Stoop stories by checking out the Stoop Storytelling Series’ podcast, hosted on WYPR's podcasting platform, Your Public Studios. The next live Stoop show will be Oct. 24th at Center Stage. The theme is “Tales from the Crypt: Stories that shiver your spine and boggle your brain.” And on Nov. 3rd, the Baltimore Museum of Art will host the Stoop show, “Movement in Every Dir...
2022-09-3009 min
On The RecordDouble Scoop Stoop! Jessica Murphy Garrett and Arianne RiceStorytelling is at the core of what we do here at WYPR. So today, as a special fund-drive treat, we’re offering up a double scoop of Stoop Stories! Arianne Rice, a newly ordained priest facing a crisis, talks about what she wished she’d learned in seminary and Jessica Murphy Garrett, who heard her biological clock ticking at age 35, tells how she decided to take matters into her own hands: “And I thought the right thing to do is to give him first right of refusal on being the sperm donor, basically, and I said, y...
2022-09-2316 min
Wavelength: Baltimore's Public Radio JourneyFirst Informers and Bridge BuildersWhen Maryland went into lockdown at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the region’s public radio stations were deemed ‘essential businesses.’ The staff at WYPR, WEAA, WTMD, and WBJC had a challenge on their hands: How do you stay safe and, at the same time, maintain a service that’s now more crucial than ever? In this episode, radio makers talk about navigating the pandemic. They also look ahead to the future of public radio in a rapidly changing media landscape. Production and support for this podcast was brought to you in part by PNC Bank...
2022-07-2723 min
On The RecordBattle lines drawn for Maryland's gubernatorial raceVotes from the primary election are still being counted, but the trend lines are so clear that Democrat Wes Moore claimed victory in the race to carry his party’s banner in the race for governor. He drew a sharp contrast between himself and Republican nominee Dan Cox, saying, "It’s a choice between unity and division. It’s a choice between a future built on hope and optimism versus a future built on cynical policies of conspiracy theories and fear.” Baltimore Banner politics reporter Pamela Wood joins us to talk about the dynamics behind who won and who l...
2022-07-2522 minOn The RecordWith Maryland's mail-in ballot canvass underway, which Baltimore County races are tightening?About 24 hours into counting mail-in ballots cast in the primary election, we speak with WYPR Baltimore County reporter John Lee. We’ll ask: what’s the latest in the contests for County executive and council, as well as the extremely tight race to be Democratic nominee for state’s attorney -- where progressive Robbie Leonard is challenging four-term incumbent Scott Shellenberger. And we talk through the logistics of canvassing thousands of mail-in ballots. Lee spoke with Ruie LaVoie, Baltimore County Elections director, who said, "We're going to process and scan 6 to 8,000 a day because I did the math and if we...
2022-07-2219 min
On The RecordAnalysis of the 2022 Maryland Primary ElectionWith thousands of mail-in ballots still a mystery, author and activist Wes Moore is ahead in the votes counted so far to be the Democratic nominee for governor.In the Republican primary, Trump-endorsed state Delegate Dan Cox declared victory. We’ll talk about it with WYPR’s Rachel Baye and pollster Mileah Kromer. Listen to Rachel Baye's story: "Dan Cox, an election denier, wins the Maryland Republican primary for governor." Check out the results of the recent Goucher College Poll, conducted in partnership with WYPR and the Baltimore Banner. In Baltimore, defense attorney Ivan...
2022-07-2024 minOn The RecordWhat do Maryland voters think?Maryland citizens who have made a choice about who they want as their next governor, or person in congress, or any of the scores of other public offices up for election this year, have started voting in the party primary -- either in person or by mail or dropbox. They have until 8 p.m. July 19 to vote. Recent polling hints that many MORE citizens are still making up their minds. WYPR politics reporter Rachel Baye says voters often decide at the last minute. And Pamela Wood of The Baltimore Banner says it doesn’t mean th...
2022-07-0817 min
Future City on WYPRSummer readingOn this episode of Future City, we discuss great reads for the summer! Future City welcomed several guests this month to discuss their favorite reads. Guests include: Samantha Zline, Branch Manager, Severna Park Library - Anne Arundel County Public Library website - https://www.aacpl.net/ - Book Recommendations Page (includes staff picks and our monthly newsletters) https://www.aacpl.net/books-more/book-recommendations -The American Library Association Banned and Challenged Books: https://www.ala.org/advocacy/bbooks Heidi Daniel, President & CEO of Enoch Pratt Free L...
2022-07-031h 06On The RecordHow Baltimore Banner editor Kimi Yoshino is building her newsroomKimi Yoshino had established an impressive career in journalism-- she was managing editor of the Los Angeles Times -- when business magnate Stewart Bainum asked her to leave all that to become editor-in-chief of the online news operation he was starting: The Baltimore Banner. Yoshino says, "This for me was a chance to start fresh and to build the kind of newsroom that I wanted to work in, the kind of newsroom that I thought would serve a community, and a way to really make a difference." That newsroom she’s building, Yoshino said, is divers...
2022-06-2324 minWavelength: Baltimore's Public Radio JourneyRadio piratesSince WJHU was the precursor to WYPR and this is WYPR’s 20th anniversary year, indulge us as we focus on the station’s early years in this episode of Wavelength: Baltimore's Public Radio Journey. A lot went on… Production and support for this podcast was brought to you in part by PNC Bank. Transcript MUSIC: "Dire Ghost" by Blue Dot Sessions. Marc Steiner: It was 2001 and there was a general manager search going on, and there were three final candidates. And just as the staff was about to interview the candidates, we got a n...
2022-05-2532 min
On The RecordDemocratic lawmakers accomplish major goals ahead of sine dieThe suspense that typically suffuses the last day of the General Assembly session is missing: Democrats sent important bills to Gov. Hogan a week earlier than normal, so he was under a deadline to deal with them. One he let become law without his signature mandates deep cuts in carbon emissions. Democrat Paul Pinsky, chair of the Senate environment committee, told his colleagues, "Today, I want to do something somewhat out of character, and that is: I want to publicly thank the governor of Maryland. Yesterday, the governor endorsed the action of the legislature that decided to ta...
2022-04-1123 min
On The RecordGovernor Hogan signs into law a new map of Maryland’s congressional districtsMaryland’s new map of congressional district boundaries has Governor Hogan’s approval, "This is a huge win for democracy and for improvement in the process, and now we’re going to have fair maps and fair elections in this election cycle." Governor Hogan signed the new map into law yesterday afternoon. This is lawmakers’ second attempt; their first map was rejected by a circuit court judge for giving Democrats an unfair advantage.Josh Kurtz, founding editor of Maryland Matters, gets us up to speed. But first, the legislative session ends Monday. WYPR's Joel McCord fills us...
2022-04-0524 min