Good morning, Baltimore! I'm Morgan Riley, and you're listening to the Baltimore News Update for Friday, May 2nd, 2025.
Word on the streets of Baltimore is that we're in for a rainy weekend as we kick off the month of May. Yesterday marked the first day of the new month, and forecasters are predicting a decent amount of rain throughout the weekend, so keep those umbrellas handy if you're heading out.
In local news, Baltimore City officials are reporting continued progress in reducing violent crime. The city wrapped up 2024 with 201 homicides, which marked a significant drop of 60 fewer homicides compared to 2023. This downward trend appears to be continuing into 2025, though officials remain vigilant in their efforts to further reduce violence in our communities.
Yesterday, several Baltimore-area organizations took to the streets for May Day rallies, protesting recent policy changes by the Trump administration. International Workers' Day saw demonstrations across the city, with protesters voicing concerns about healthcare, jobs, immigrant rights, and student protections. At Johns Hopkins University, the PhD workers' union joined the rallies, demanding that the university administration protect international students, workers, and research funding. Graduate workers called on Hopkins to back up their support of academic freedom with concrete actions.
Looking ahead to community events this month, mark your calendars for SOWEBOFEST on May 25th. This beloved annual Southwest Baltimore street festival will feature over 80 vendors, kids' activities, live music performances, and more in the historic Hollins Market area. It's free to attend and runs from noon to 8 PM.
If you're a food enthusiast, don't miss "Baltimore's Culinary History" on May 29th at the Homewood Museum. Kara Mae Harris, author of the Maryland-centric food blog "Old Line Plate," will discuss Baltimore's rich food traditions.
For music lovers, the Maryland Science Center presents "Music Under the Dome: David Bowie" on May 30th. It's an immersive planetarium journey set to Bowie's greatest hits – a perfect blend of science and rock 'n' roll.
The month closes out with "The Lost Weekend," a three-day literary festival starting May 30th at Greedy Reads in Remington, featuring appearances by acclaimed authors like Susan Choi and Yrsa Daley-Ward.
As we navigate these early spring days together, let's remember that our city's strength lies in our diverse communities and shared experiences.
This has been Morgan Riley, your neighbor in the news. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a Baltimore News Update. For more information, you can always send an email to [email protected] or check out our website at QuietPlease.AI. Until next time, Baltimore.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.