Baltimore mayor Scott voices support for President Biden

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott is joining Democratic mayors across the country to show support for President Joe Biden.

“I fortunately get to be with the president probably more than most mayors and I have not been concerned,” Scott said during a press conference on Wednesday. “I am concerned that we are not having a conversation that we should be having. His opponent is a convicted felon. His opponent wants to take away further take away women’s rights. His opponent… wants to be a dictator. His opponent won’t acknowledge the results of an election. His opponent wants to turn back this country into the 1960s or before. That’s what we should be talking about here.”

Maryland Rep. Kweisi Mfume also issued support for Biden.

President Biden holds news conference as candidacy faces more scrutiny

President Biden took questions from reporters for about an hour in a news conference that showcased his strong command of foreign policy but also included the kind of verbal stumbles that have stoked concerns from members of his party about his fitness to continue his campaign. The most notable flub was calling Vice President Harris “Vice President Trump” in the session’s opening minutes. Moments after the news conference ended, Rep. Jim Himes (D-Conn.) issued a statement calling on Biden to “step away” from the race and “make way for a new generation of leaders,” joining a growing list of lawmakers who have called for Biden to step aside.

Fireworks: 2024 July Fourth fireworks displays across Baltimore metro

Happy Independence Day! Here’s our list of July Fourth fireworks displays planned across the Baltimore area.

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY FIREWORKS:

Annapolis:

– Parade, 6:30 p.m.

– Fireworks, 9:15 p.m.

Glen Burnie (July 3)

– Sawmill Creek Park, 9 p.m.

BALTIMORE CITY FIREWORKS:

The Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore kicks off celebrations with a 3 p.m. picnic on July 4 at West Shore Park that lasts through 9 p.m.

Then, at 6 p.m., DJ C. James plays music at the Amphitheater, while Avenue 66, a 10-piece variety cover band, will take the stage at 7 p.m.

The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra will play a concert at Rash Field around 8 p.m., followed by the fireworks and drone show around 9:30 p.m.

A fireworks show is also planned for 9:30 p.m. at Middle Branch Park as part of the Cherry Hill Arts and Music Waterfront Festival.

BALTIMORE COUNTY FIREWORKS:

Catonsville:

– Parade, Frederick Road, 3 p.m.

– Fireworks, Catonsville High School, 9:15 p.m.

Dundalk:

– Parade, 8:15 a.m.

– Fireworks, Grange Elementary Schools, 9:30 p.m.

Fullerton:

– Fullerton Park, 9:15 p.m.

Hereford:

– Hereford High School, 7:30 p.m. festival, fireworks at dusk

Towson:

– Parade, 10:30 a.m.

– Fireworks, Loch Raven Academy, 9 p.m.

CARROLL COUNTY FIREWORKS:

Taneytown (July 3):

– Taneytown Memorial Park, 9:30 p.m.

CECIL COUNTY FIREWORKS:

Charlestown (July 3):

– Avalon Park & Stage, dusk

Chesapeake City (July 5):

– Pell Gardens, dusk

HARFORD COUNTY FIREWORKS:

Aberdeen:

– Ripken Stadium, 9 p.m.

Havre de Grace (July 6):

– Parade, 2 p.m.

– Fireworks, 9:15 p.m.

HOWARD COUNTY FIREWORKS:

Columbia:

– Columbia Lakefront, 9:10 p.m.

KENT COUNTY FIREWORKS

Chestertown:

– Wilmer Park, 9:15 p.m.

Rock Hall:

– Parade, 10 a.m. on July 4, from the lagoon

– Harbor, 9 p.m. on July 3

QUEEN ANNE’S COUNTY FIREWORKS:

Chester:

– Chesapeake Heritage and Visitors Center, 9:15 p.m.

Fireworks law in Maryland:

Maryland Law:
It is illegal to cross state lines and import fireworks for backyard celebrations. Fines may be levied of up to $250 for each firework device. Possession or use of explosive fireworks or large firecrackers such as M-100s or “Quarter-sticks” can carry a felony charge, large fines and time in prison.

For your safety, and that of your guests, fire officials urge Marylanders to keep it safe and only use legal fireworks this season. Leave the fireworks displays to professionals and enjoy one of the many displays in the area.

Code Red Extreme Heat Alert Declared for Thursday, July 4th through Saturday, July 6th

Residents Urged to Stay Safe and Cool Ahead of the 4th of July Holiday Weekend

BALTIMORE, MD (Wednesday, July 3, 2024) — With temperatures expected to rise in the Baltimore region and the heat index forecasted to reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit for the next few days, the Baltimore City Commissioner of Health Dr. Ihuoma Emenuga has declared a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert for Thursday, July 4th through Saturday, July 6th. The heat index is a measure of air temperature and relative humidity and indicates how hot it feels to the human body.

“As we prepare to enjoy the 4th of July holiday, we should prioritize our safety while having fun. Amidst the extreme heat, residents should stay hydrated, remain indoors with a working air conditioner or fan, and be sure to check on vulnerable neighbors,” said Commissioner of Health Dr. Ihuoma Emenuga. “Extreme heat is dangerous to older adults, children, and those with chronic health conditions. Together, let’s celebrate responsibly and safely, by staying cool and hydrated this holiday weekend.”

The Health Commissioner may declare a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert during periods of heat that are severe enough to present a substantial threat to life or health risks. Once a Code Red Extreme Heat declaration is made, activities are undertaken to encourage safety. When a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert is not declared, it is important to take precautions on warmer days.

The following Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services (MOHS) sites will serve as cooling centers (days and hours vary by location):

  • My Sisters Place Women’s Center (women and children only) 
    17 W. Franklin St. | Thurs., Fri., and Sat., 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.  
  • Weinberg Housing & Resource Center (WHRC) 
    620 Fallsway | Thurs., Fri., and Sat., 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 
  • Franciscan Center | 101 W. 23rd St. | Fri., 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.  
  • Beans & Bread | 400 S. Bond St. | Fri., 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. 

 *On Thursday, July 4th, Beans & Bread’s indoor facilities will be closed, but will be serving water outside.  

The following Baltimore City Health Department’s Division of Aging and Community Support sites will serve as cooling centers on Friday, July 5th from 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.  

  • Waxter Center for Senior Citizens | 1000 Cathedral St. (410) 396-1324 
  • Oliver Senior Center | 1700 N Gay St. (410) 396-3861 
  • Zeta Center for Healthy & Active Aging | 4501 Reisterstown Rd. (410) 396-3535 
  • Hatton Senior Center | 2825 Fait Ave. (410) 396-9025 

The following Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC) sites will serve as cooling centers on Friday, July 5th from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.: 

  • Cherry Hill Homes | 2700 Spelman Road 
  • Brooklyn Homes | 4140 10th Street 

ShopRite Howard Park (4601 Liberty Heights Ave.) will serve as a community cooling center during their regular hours Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Residents seeking relief from the heat can also visit open Pratt Library locations.  

During the Code Red Extreme Heat season, the Baltimore City Health Department recommends that City residents:

  • Drink plenty of water
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine
  • Reduce outside activities
  • Stay inside during the hottest time of day (11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
  • Seek relief from the heat in air-conditioned locations
  • Check on older adults and the sick in your community who may need help in the heat
  • Never leave children alone in closed vehicles, even for short periods of time
  • Ensure that babies are sleeping safely. The risk for sleep-related infant death increases when babies overheat
    • People should place their infants alone, on their back, in a crib, and with no blankets, pillows, or sheets (a flat sheet covering the crib mattress is fine)
    • No head coverings
    • Co-sleeping (sharing a sleeping surface with a caregiver or another child) is especially dangerous

Watch out for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Seek medical help immediately if these symptoms occur:

  • Confusion
  • Nausea
  • Lightheadedness
  • High body temperature with cool and clammy skin
  • Hot, dry, flushed skin
  • Rapid or slowed heartbeat

To keep pets safe, BCHD also recommends:

  • Never leave your pets in a parked car. Keep them safe and leave them at home. Temperatures inside a vehicle can rise extremely quickly. Even on a 70-degree day, the inside of a car can rise to a deadly 110 degrees
  • Provide ample shade and water. Anytime your pet is outside, make sure he or she has protection from heat and sun and plenty of fresh, cold water
  • Limit exercise on hot days. On very hot days, limit exercise to early morning or evening hours. Asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet’s paws, so walk your dog on grass if possible
  • Watch for signs of heatstroke. These include heavy panting, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, vomiting, unable to get up, and a deep red or purple tongue. If you see signs of heatstroke, take your pet to a veterinarian immediately

City residents who want cooling center information on Code Red Extreme Heat Alert days can call 311. Individuals having a heat-related medical emergency or who are experiencing signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke should call 911.

For more information on declared Code Red Extreme Heat Alert days, visit the Baltimore City Health Department’s website and on social media Facebook @BaltimoreHealth and Instagram @Bmore_healthy. Additional information may also be found via the Baltimore City 311 line, and with local news media.

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sued again over more alleged sex trafficking

Diddy has been hit with ANOTHER lawsuit! This time a former porn star accuses the now disgraced music mogul of forcing her to have sex at his parties or blackballing her if she didn’t comply.

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According to TMZ, Adria English, who goes by the porn-star name Omunique, says she met Diddy in 2004. She was auditioning for a Sean John modeling gig at the time. But she says it immediately got freaky asf! She says Diddy wanted oral sex from her boyfriend and another model in order for her to get a job.

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The boyfriend refused but she ended up getting the job after agreeing that she would be Diddy’s go-go dancer. She says Diddy used her go-go dancing as a way that force her into having sex with his friends. One of those friends was Jacob Arabov, known as “Jacob the Jeweler” in hip hop.

________________________________

She even took a photo with Jacob after the alleged assault. She says Diddy never kept his promise to help her career. She’s suing Diddy, Bad Boy, Tamiko Thomas (who allegedly helped organize the alleged sex trafficking,) “Jacob the Jeweler” and others and seeking unspecified damages.

Baltimore City Public Schools teacher arrested, charged with second-degree rape

A Baltimore City Public Schools teacher was arrested and charged on Monday with second-degree rape.

Detectives said they received information that 24-year-old Lewis Laury, who is a teacher with Baltimore City Public Schools, was having an inappropriate relationship with a minor.

In addition to being charged with second-degree rape, Laury has also been charged with sexual offense in the third degree.

Laury is currently being held without bail at the Baltimore County Detention Center.

Mayor Scott, officials cut ribbon on 2 newly acquired hotels to combat homelessness

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott and other officials on Monday cut the ribbon on two newly acquired hotels to aid the city’s efforts in combatting homelessness.

The Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services said funds from the American Rescue Plan Act were used to purchase the Sleep Inn & Suites on North Front Street and the Holiday Inn Express on North Gay Street in downtown Baltimore. The purchase is part of the city’s response to the nationwide housing crisis and the rise in homelessness.

“Tackling the issue of homelessness and housing insecurity in Baltimore is going to require approaches that reflect the needs and experiences of our most vulnerable residents,” Scott said in a news release. “This purchase is a major step forward in increasing our ability to address homelessness, expand our efforts to provide a pathway to housing security, and utilize ARPA funding to make a major impact on our most complex challenges. I cannot thank everyone who has been part of this process enough for their hard work, dedication, and deep love for all Baltimoreans. Together, from the Biden-Harris Administration and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to our state partners and down to our local leaders and advocates, we will continue fighting to make a difference in the lives of residents who need it most.”

The Sleep Inn & Suites most recently was utilized to house families, couples, former encampment residents and individuals and families who have become displaced due to housefires. The Holiday Inn Express has been primarily utilized to house and provide male clients with individualized case management, mental health services, housing navigation, vital records resources, employment assistance and additional on-site services through TIME Organization.

The total cost was reported to be $15.2 million for the acquisition and $3.2 million for the management agreement for both hotels.

What to know about the Supreme Court immunity ruling in Trump’s 2020 election interference case

The Supreme Court’s ruling Monday in former President Donald Trump’s 2020 election interference case makes it all but certain that the Republican will not face trial in Washington ahead of the November election.

The Supreme Court did not dismiss — as Trump had wanted — the indictment alleging he illegally schemed to cling to power after he lost to President Joe Biden. But the ruling still amounts to a major victory for the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, whose legal strategy has focused on delaying the proceedings until after the election.

Trump posted in all capital letters on his social media network shortly after the decision was released: “BIG WIN FOR OUR CONSTITUTION AND DEMOCRACY. PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN!”

The timing of the trial matters because if Trump defeats Biden, he could appoint an attorney general who would seek the dismissal of this case and the other federal prosecutions he faces. Or Trump could potentially order a pardon for himself.

Here’s a look at the ruling and what comes next:

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The court’s conservative majority said former presidents have absolute immunity from prosecution for official acts that fall within their “exclusive sphere of constitutional authority” and are presumptively entitled to immunity for all official acts. They do not enjoy immunity for unofficial, or private, actions.

The ruling means that special counsel Jack Smith cannot proceed with significant allegations in the indictment — or must at least defend their use in future proceedings before the trial judge.

The justices, for instance, wiped out Smith’s use of allegations that Trump tried to use the investigative power of the Justice Department to undo the election results, holding that his communications with agency officials is plainly protected from prosecution.

The justices sent the case back to U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan, who must now “carefully analyze” whether other allegations involve official conduct for which the president would be immune from prosecution.

Among the issues for further analysis is Trump’s relentless badgering of then-Vice President Mike Pence to not certify the electoral votes on Jan. 6, 2021. The justices said it was “ultimately the Government’s burden to rebut the presumption of immunity” in Trump’s interactions with Pence.

The order also directed additional analysis on the various posts on X, then known as Twitter, that Trump made — as well as a speech he delivered to supporters — in the run-up to the riot at the U.S. Capitol. Determining whether that communication represents official versus unofficial acts, the justices said, “may depend on the content and context of each” and thus needs more scrutiny.

The justices required fresh fact-finding on one of the more stunning allegations in the indictment — that Trump had participated in a scheme orchestrated by allies to enlist slates of fraudulent electors in battleground states won by Biden who would falsely attest that Trump had won in those states.

The Trump team had argued that the selection of alternate electors was in keeping with Trump’s presidential interest in the integrity and proper administration of the federal elections and cited as precedent an episode he said took place in the disputed election in 1876.

The Smith team, by contrast, portrayed the scheme as a purely private action that implicated no presidential responsibility.

The conservative justices in their majority opinion didn’t answer the question as to which side was right, instead saying that “determining whose characterization may be correct, and with respect to which conduct, requires a close analysis of the indictment’s extensive and interrelated allegations.”

Unlike Trump’s interactions with the Justice Department, the justices said, “this alleged conduct cannot be neatly categorized as falling within a particular Presidential function. The necessary analysis is instead fact specific, requiring assessment of numerous alleged interactions with a wide variety of state officials and private persons.”