On The Record

Should Maryland raise its minimum wage to $15 dollars per hour? As lawmakers debate, dozens of business owners and workers have testified about the potential impact of a wage boost.Lawrence A. Richardson Jr. of the Maryland Chamber of Commerce lays out the concerns of small business owners across the state - will they be forced to cut jobs or hours? Will they relocate to bordering states? - while Alissa Barron-Menza of Business for a Fair Minimum Wage argues that higher wages grow the economy through higher customer spending.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Growing up in East Baltimore, the son of Catholic immigrants, Jim Cabezas felt called to serve and protect. But as a rookie Baltimore City police officer in 1970s, he witnessed rampant racism and abuse by fellow officers.In his memoir, “Eyes of Justice,” written with Joan Jacobson, Jim Cabezas details his lengthy career in law enforcement, including high-profile investigations of corrupt politicians, all while coping with the creeping loss of his sight.They will be speaking at the Ivy Bookshop on March 7th from 7-9 pm. Details here.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

What is the glue that holds a community together? For St. Francis Neighborhood Center, it is the attitude that it takes a village to build a better future.St. Francis Neighborhood Center is located at Whitelock Street and Linden Avenue in Baltimore’s Reservoir Hill community. Its mission is to end generational poverty through education. To meet that goal, the nonprofit offers free resources for families, from job readiness workshops to financial planning classes.Tomorrow St. Francis will break ground on a $4 million dollar renovation and expansion, tripling the number of families they can serve. Last August we spoke with Christi Green, who’s been executive director since 2012, as well as Inge Harris, whose four children attend St. Francis, and her son, Emmanuel, who began participating at St. Frances in elementary school.Here's information about how to donate. Details about how to volunteer here.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

The United States is most dangerous place in the developed world to give birth--and the mothers most at risk … are African Americans. This afternoon Johns Hopkins is convening a dozen experts for ideas that could change that picture. The symposium also honors Shalon Irving, an black alumna who worked to eliminate health disparities. Still, three weeks after she gave birth, high blood pressure took her life. We talk with OB-GYN Dr. Raegan McDonald-Mosley, who sees her friend’s death as a call for change. We also meet Dr. Michelle Ogunwole, a primary-care, internal medicine physician at Johns Hopkins and Tanjala Purnell, PhD, associate director for education in Johns Hopkins’ Center for Health Equity, as well as assistant professor of surgery, epidemiology and health behavior. They discuss symposium topics and shed light on this important issue.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Here is a Stoop Story from Sharon Gorenstein about getting her “happily ever after” without the castle. You can hear her story and many others at stoopstorytelling.com.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Decades after Esther Nisenthal Krinitz lost her family in the Holocaust, she began stitching together childhood memories, using thread and fabric to detail life in their Polish village, and trauma of World War II. It was an avocation she took up while running a clothing store in downtown Frederick. Now dozens of her embroidered panels are coming to the American Visionary Art Museum, part of an exhibit about genocide and human injustice.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

We all know there’s no place like home. But what ‘home’ looks like ... depends upon our perspective. We get two perspectives today. LaQuida Chancey, founder of Smalltimore Homes, tells us how she hopes to eradicate homelessness by developing ‘micro shelter’ communities. Then, we visit Baltimore’s Inner harbor to learn why some people choose to live aboard year round. For Joe Fleischman, it’s about the freedom his sailboat offers.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

What do you have in common with a fish? Dr. Steven Farber, from the Carnegie Institution for Science, has a good idea: turns out, it goes clear down to the genes. He tells us about his research on heart disease using--of all things--the tiny zebrafish. He’s also created a short beginners’ genetics curriculum based on fish development -- called BioEYES. We also visit Mt. Washington School and meet BioEYES outreach educator Terrone Jasper, and science teacher Leaha Charles Pierre, whose students are experiencing BioEYES for the first time.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

As acting Baltimore Police Commissioner Michael Harrison enters his second week on the job, we hear from community leaders David Troy of the group Baltimore City Voters and Rev. Dr. S. Todd Yeary of Douglas memorial Community Church about their first impressions. And Fern Shen of the Baltimore Brew tells us what’s expected in his confirmation process.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Does a city shape its inhabitants ... or is it the other way around? And … how much does location influence commerce? Deborah Weiner explores these questions in the book she co-wrote: “On Middle Ground: A History of the Jews of Baltimore.” It draws on Baltimore’s unique geography, politics and racial diversity -- not to mention a host of colorful characters -- to walk the reader through the development of Baltimore’s Jewish community.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Gather your bait and cast your line! Milton Price of the Pasadena Sportfishing Group tells us about their mission to pass a love of fishing on to the next generation.The group will be holding their 27th Annual Expo tomorrow and Sunday at the Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company - 161 Ritchie Hwy Severna Park, MD. More information here.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Here's a Stoop Story from Rosemary Raun about roughing it in the not-so-great outdoors. You can listen to more stories and and the Stoop Podcast at stoopstorytelling.com.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

It seems so simple … but can so easily elude us: noticing the quiet, the surprising, the graceful--the moments of delight--that abound each day. Can we become more aware of delight, with practice? Poet Ross Gay gave himself a year-long task: … each day to fine-tune his ‘radar for delight,’ … to observe the small caretaking gestures that connect us, and to handwrite a short essay. He reads from the result, his newly published “The Book of Delights” … and implores readers to slow down and savor the little things.For information about Ross's reading at the Enoch Pratt Free Library 'Writers Live' series, visit this link.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

The play “Everything is Wonderful” at Everyman Theater makes us think anew about what it means to forgive, and what it takes to do it. Director Noah Himmelstein contrasts the mercy an Amish family shows a man whose driving took their son’s lives … with their sternness toward their free-spirited daughter. And we meet Mark and Sandy Laken, inspired by the play to search for the driver who might have caused their own son’s fatal crash three decades ago. They learned of the play’s message only after Sandy had offered to sponsor it financially:.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Americans are doing more and more of their shopping online -- but part of what distinguishes Baltimore are the brick-and-mortar businesses that have thrived for more than a century. The nonprofit ‘Baltimore Heritage’ has a new project recognizing the owners of 100-year legacy businesses, and project researcher Richard Messick and executive director Johns Hopkins tell us all about it. Then we hear the real deal about two family-run establishments: from Joe DiPasquale of DiPasquale’s Italian Market and Tony Tochterman, of Tochterman’s Fishing and Tackle.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

FDR’s New Deal shaped Democratic politics for generations. But the roots of the coalition that made it happen stretch back further. We speak to historian Robert Chiles about his new book, ----The Revolution of ’28: Al Smith, American Progressivism, and the Coming of the New Deal----.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Here is a Stoop Story from Barbara Treasure about Akira Kurosawa's ----Seven Samurai----. Check out more Stoop Stories, and the Stoop podcast, here.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

From the cutting-room floors of Blockbuster and Video Americain … has emerged Beyond Video. The new nonprofit video rental shop in Baltimore’s Remington neighborhood is a temple to film, with thousands of independent, foreign, and hard-to-find titles...and volunteers ready with recommendations.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

The price of insulin is soaring, and some patients are rationing their dosage and risking death. With millions of American living with diabetes, what can be done to help patients afford this essential drug? Hopkins internist and medical historian Dr. Jeremy Greene describes how innovation has upped the effectiveness of insulin in the 100 years since it was discovered. But that’s come at a steep price.Plus: David McShae is executive director of the American Diabetes Association, Maryland chapter. The organization advocates for the prevention and cure of diabetes; it fundraises for diabetes research and does educational outreach. Take the Type-II Risk Assessment here. Check out information about June's Tour de Cure walk/ride/run to celebrate those living with diabetes.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

When financial affairs have spun out of control, filing bankruptcy is an option … but typically a last resort. Recent research published as ‘Graying of U.S. Bankruptcy: Fallout from Life in a Risk Society,’ reveals that a growing number of adults 65 and older are choosing bankruptcy as their best option. Professor Deborah Thorne is a principal investigator for the ‘Consumer Bankruptcy Project.’ Then we ask Helene Raynaud, of the non-profit Guidewell Financial Solutions, how to avoid monetary crisis and stress.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

We are all better than our worst decision. That’s the message of “The Master Plan,” a memoir by Chris Wilson. At 17, Wilson was sentenced for murder, to life in prison. Behind bars, he reflected on his troubled upbringing and focused on building a positive future. Wilson details his improbable path to freedom and the challenges he’s faced since returning home.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

What impacts can we expect from the new policy of the Baltimore City State’s Attorney not to prosecute possession of marijuana? Former police detective Debbie Ramsay, now part of the Law Enforcement Action Partnership, urges prosecutors and police not to square off in opposition, but together to listen to how citizens want marijuana laws enforced.Sonia Kumar, staff attorney for the A.C.L.U. of Maryland, says evidence to back up the new policy was clear six years ago. Read the report, ----The Maryland War on Marijuana in Black and White----.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Get a good night’s sleep, avoid sugar, exercise - we hear this advice all the time, but how does following it affect how we age?Internist Dr. Stephen Schimpff, says adopting positive habits-- especially at a young age--can prevent the onset of chronic diseases. He points to regions around the globe with concentrations of people 100 years or older. These communities shun processed food, stay active, and treat elders with respect. It's all in Schimpff’s new book, “Longevity Decoded”.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Here’s a Stoop Story from Natalie Sokoloff about the challenges of recovering after a severe fall and fighting to get her mobility back.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

As Nazi power spread in the 1930’s and Jews in Europe struggled to escape, many countries closed their borders to Jewish refugees. An exception was the international city of Shanghai, China, which required no visa. Thousands of Jews made their way across continents to shelter in Shanghai. Marvin Pinkert, director of the Jewish Museum of Maryland, explains how the early welcome the refugees received, withers after Japan, a Nazi ally, occupies Shanghai. And we meet a Pikesville resident who was born in Shanghai--and is now a World ping-pong champion!<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

A global movement is using boycotts to pressure Israel to soften its policies in the Palestinian territories. About half the states have passed laws against such boycotts; Maryland’s governor issued an executive order denying state contracts to businesses that boycott Israel. The governor’s order is being challenged in court by a software contractor who says it’s unconstitutional. We hear from David Straub, a law professor who has examined state responses, and Zainab Chaudry, Maryland liaison for the Council on American-Islamic Relations, explains why CAIR got involved in the lawsuit.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Beyond arrest and incarceration, how can we reduce violence between intimate partners? Law professor Leigh Goodmark in her latest book “Decriminalizing Domestic Violence,---- argues that relying on the criminal justice system to address violence often harms victims and does little to prevent abuse in the future.Then, the House of Ruth offers a path of 90-minutes sessions over 28 weeks designed to teach non-violence relationship skills to perpetrators of abuse. Director of training and education Lisa Nitsch describes the Gateway Project.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Maryland, its counties and Baltimore will need to spend billions more than they do now to make good on the recommendations of the high-level panel headed by retired University Chancellor Brit Kirwan. Liz Bowie, who covers education for the Baltimore Sun, catches us up on what part of the Kirwan challenge the legislature intends to take up this year … and why advocates for Baltimore’s schools say it’s not moving fast enough. Plus, we discuss education reform with former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, in town for the Baltimore Speaker Series.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Even if it’s out of fashion, too big or too small, many people are holding on to clothing they no longer wear. The Clothing Swap offers a second chance for these items, at a meet-up where people can donate and take home clothing -- for free! Organizer Anna Grothe says the swap is a way for those in the community to share an abundant resource.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Here is a Stoop Story from Kelly Rudis about the privilege of being a midwife. You can hear her story and many others at stoopstorytelling.com, as well as the Stoop podcast. The next live Stoop Show is Tuesday, February 12, 2019 at 7:00 pm at The Senator Theatre. The night will feature stories about our relationships with animals — from pets to predators.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Heading into World War II, cork was essential in planes, ships, subs--and countless other tools of war. When a year’s supply of cork went up in flames at Crown Cork and Seal’s factory in Highlandtown, it was a threat to national security. We speak to David Taylor, author of ----Cork Wars: Intrigue and Industry in World War II----.Then, David London of the Peale Center for Baltimore History and Architecture tells us about an immersive exhibit that transports visitors back in time 200-years, to the studio of Rembrandt Peale, the museum’s founder. Find more information about ----Time Travel Tours---- here.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

A few months after the September 11th attacks, Anthony Moll did what a lot of teenagers did: raised his hand and took an oath to the U.S. army. For a working-class kid in a stagnant city, the army meant escape. For a bisexual man with pink hair, the army at that time also meant “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” His new memoir is titled, ----Out of Step----.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Will the Preakness Stakes remain at Baltimore’s aging Pimlico Race Course? Will Maryland legalize sports betting, and how will that change what it means to be a sports fan?Amanda Yeager of the Baltimore Business Journal takes us through the arguments for and against moving the second leg of racing's’ Triple Crown to Laurel Park. Read her reporting on the Maryland Stadium Authority's plan for a $424 million estimated rebuild of Pimlico.And veteran sports journalist Bill Ordine of Press Box describes the paths Maryland may take to legalize sports betting. Read more on the future of sports betting nationally and here in Maryland.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

The sorrow, heartache and suffering connected with loss can leave a person paralyzed with grief.In “Before and after Loss: A Neurologist’s Perspective on Loss, Grief, and Our Brain” Dr. Lisa Shulman channels her personal encounters with bereavement into exploration of what takes place in the brain when we’re grieving. Shulman discusses interpreting dreams … journaling … and introspection. She raises questions and draws conclusions about the cognitive effects of loss, and how to recover.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Scores of marching bands, dance squads, fraternities, sororities, and civic organizations are gearing up for Baltimore’s most-anticipated parade--honoring the legacy of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. We visit some participants as they prepare for the big day Monday … and ask, what does taking part in the MLK Day parade mean for them?We hear from the Dunbar High School Marching band and the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity … and longtime parade devotee Hassan Giordano, who tells us why he shows up each year, no matter how cold:<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Here's a Stoop story by Doray Sitko about what it means to rise to the challenge of service.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Sometimes tragedy gives birth to social change. Six years ago Ethan Saylor, a young man with Down Syndrome, died in an encounter with law-enforcement. Could adequate training have changed that outcome?Ethan’s mother Patti Saylor thinks so. She tells us about officer training designed to help contacts with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, or I-D-Ds. And we meet Lisa Schoenbrodt, a Loyola professor coaching people with I-D-Ds to perform reality scenarios for the trainings and Patrick Chaney, an actor with autism.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Even in winter, committed bicyclists can be found traversing Baltimore’s streets. How is the city making way for bikes, and improving safety for all?Liz Cornish, head of the advocacy group BikeMore, describes the city’s new Complete Streets ordinance, offers an update on the nearly finished Downtown Bike Network, and analyzes the success of dockless scooter and bicycle programs.Then, LaKeisha Henderson of Bike and Brunch Tours describes the historical treasures to be enjoyed while exploring Baltimore neighborhoods on two wheels.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

One of the most powerful forms of healing is peer support -- receiving advice and encouragement from someone who truly understands what you’ve been through because they’ve been through it, too. Our guests today live by that philosophy. The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen Society, or LEGS, says it provides ----resources and emotional peer support for gentlemen who are diversely abled.----We hear from co-founder Calvin Mitchell and members Bong Delrosario, and Derrick Waters.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Sea levels along the Eastern Shore are rising twice as rapidly as the global average. A new documentary highlights Smithville, a small community founded by freed slaves whose historic church and cemetery are threatened by the encroaching marsh. Watch ----Smithville---- here.Rona Kobell of Maryland Sea Grant, describes the causes and consequences of rising waters, and the struggle to take action. And filmmakers Wyman Jones Jr. and Jalysa Mayo share their perspectives on environmental justice.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Here’s a Stoop Story from Christine Sajecki about giving her all, for her art!<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Even before his first solo exhibit in Harlem in 1940, artist Romare Bearden's focus was social change. He was a social worker for decades, as he enhanced his skills as a political cartoonist, painter and creator of collages. Bearden's art is on exhibit now at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum. His niece Deidra Harris-Kelley, co director of the RoMARE Bearden Foundation, will speak about him on Saturday. She told us about her lecture titled: Artist as Activist.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Possessing small amounts of cannabis was decriminalized in Maryland four years ago. But more than 10 grams is still a misdemeanor -- and recent data show that in Baltimore, nearly all those arrested are black. Journalist Brandon Soderberg, who crunched the numbers, noted the data comes as Baltimore faces serious challenges in criminal justice. Then, former state police Major Neill Franklin, of the Law Enforcement Action Partnership, tells us why he’s now dedicated to reforming drug policies.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

The 439th session of Maryland’s General Assembly begins today at noon. How will the large influx of new legislators change the dynamic? Will bills that were blocked before now become law? WYPR statehouse reporter Rachel Baye and Maryland Matters politics reporter Danielle Gaines tee up the issues, from education funding and sports betting … to police training and immigrant’s rights...Plus, lawmakers are once again expected to debate whether to increase the minimum wage. Baye says they may consider phasing in an increase, or an increase that varies in different parts of the state.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Baltimore is still searching its next police chief, after the mayor’s nominee withdrew yesterday. The next commissioner confirmed will be Baltimore’s fourth in a year, as the city struggles with gun violence and implementing the reforms required by the federal consent decree. Journalist Brandon Soderberg describes the toll of uncertain leadership, and Ray Kelly, interim director of Baltimore Community Mediation Center, tells us how the consent decree process is steadily moving forward. You can read the second year plan of the consent decree here and submit feedback here. The Fourth Quarterly Community Report Forum on will take place on Tuesday evening, January 22 at Edgewood Lyndhurst Recreation Center, 835 Allendale St.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

We meet author and illustrator Jonathan Scott Fuqua, who watched scores of students graduate with college degrees in art -- along with so much debt that paying it down crippled their ability to start art careers. Fuqua and his co-founders, Alex Fine and Greg Houston, set out to offer a much cheaper school alternative, = offering classes more like an apprenticeship, instead of degree-based. Thus, The Baltimore Academy of Illustration opened in 2015. It’s taught about 350 students, including Jim Zimmerman, a full-time electrician -- he tells us how he's reviving his artistic skills and interests, making a dream come true.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

How do you attract young people to care about pursuits like math and engineering? Brittany Young contends dirt bikes are the answer!Young is a 2018 Open Society Institute-Baltimore community fellow. Her project ‘B-360’ helps students learn skills they can apply in STEM fields -- science, technology, engineering and math -- through riding and maintaining bikes. She stresses meeting students where they are.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Mike Molina tells his Stoop Story about the power of forgiveness, humility and those small acts can do a lot for<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Late last year, a census of Maryland’s oyster population revealed an alarming decline: there are now about 300 million oysters, half the number of two decades ago. Tim Wheeler of The Bay Journal walks us through the causes for the decline - from disease and loss of habitat to harvest pressure.Then: how do you raise oyster larvae? Stephanie Alexander of the Horn Point Oyster Hatchery takes us from spawning to spat on shell…<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>

Two of the new Open Society Institute-Baltimore Community Fellows are dedicated to supporting and uplifting students in Baltimore City schools …Aarti Sidhu provides legal representation for students facing expulsion and suspension; the idea is to make sure they know their rights and what resources are available to them. Ciera Daniel (Sierra) helps African-American boys in elementary school build confidence through mentoring, education and the power of positive affirmation.<p>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 [email protected] 410-235-1903 Senior Producer, Melissa Gerr she/her/hers [email protected] 410-235-1157 Producer Sam Bermas-Dawes he/him/his [email protected] 410-235-1472</p>