The Maryland Board of Public Works approved the Department of Natural Resources’ acquisition of nearly 20 acres of forested land in Wicomico County Wednesday for $49,000. The new plot will help maintain the water quality of the Nanticoke River watershed and preserve the habitat of species endemic to forest interiors.
Senate panel gives thumbs up to Maryland’s O’Malley as next Social Security commissioner
The Senate Finance Committee voted 17–10 Tuesday to advance to the full Senate the nomination of former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley to be the next commissioner of the Social Security Administration. O’Malley’s nomination now awaits a confirmation vote by the full Senate. If confirmed, O’Malley would head the federal agency for a term ending in January 2025.
New MCAP results show signs of recovery from pandemic learning loss in English and math while science declines
The Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) tests for grades 3 to 8. The results show that student proficiency in English Language Arts has surpassed the level it was at before the pandemic. Math scores have improved, but have yet to fully rebound from the pandemic, while science scores have declined, according to the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE).
School principals prepare to implement the Blueprint For Maryland’s Future
As Maryland rolls out the 2021 landmark education reform law called the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, many school administrators are unsure what the plan means for their schools.
The lights are up and Washington’s Downtown Holiday Market is open
Located along F Street N.W. between 7th and 9th Streets, next to the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Portrait Gallery, Washington, D.C.’s Holiday Market is open.
Historic Laurel Park faces shaky future
A determination will come from the Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority to make recommendations on the redevelopment of Laurel Park and Pimlico racecourses – the two most prominent, historic, but aging, Thoroughbred racetracks in the state.
Endangered Species Act at 50: wins, losses and controversy
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act, one the the most influential conservation laws in U.S. history. But, the occasion is marred by 21 species newly classified as extinct.
Montgomery County nonprofits receive aid to fight hate crimes
Montgomery County is providing $1.3 million to nonprofits and religious organizations that are at risk of experiencing hate crimes. The county says it is committed to safety in a diverse community.
A Babe Ruth card over 100 years old could sell for more than $10 million
An auction is underway for a 1914 Baltimore News baseball card of George Herman “Babe” Ruth. The card depicts Ruth, a Baltimore native, when he was still a pitcher in the Baltimore Orioles’ organization and is expected to compete with the record for the priciest baseball card ever sold at $12.6 million.
Vogel leads in fundraising, spending in Maryland’s US House 6th District race
Vogel has raised $252,813, putting him above his fellow Democrats — and also above all Republicans running for the seat.