Author: Michael Phillips
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Orioles Pride Night Features Drag Performer in Family Section, Drawing Sharp Fan Backlash
The Baltimore Orioles’ upcoming Pride Night at Camden Yards has sparked backlash due to the decision to place RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant Heidi N Closet in the family-oriented Tower Federal Credit Union Bird Bath area. Fans across various perspectives voiced concerns, with many threatening to boycott the team. New owner David Rubenstein has yet to…
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The Governor Bought a Horse Race
Governor Wes Moore’s administration committed $85 million in taxpayer funds to acquire the Preakness Stakes brand, amid rising costs and budget deficits in Maryland. Critics argue this move prioritizes political gain over essential infrastructure needs and question the governance and management of this state-owned commercial property, with significant financial risks involved.
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The Fight Was at the White House. You Needed a Subscription to Watch It.
UFC Freedom 250, held at the White House for America’s 250th anniversary, was exclusively streamed on Paramount+, raising questions about its accessibility. Initially intended for CBS broadcast to maximize viewership, it ended up behind a paywall. The final decision remains unclear, revealing a disconnect between stated intentions and execution.
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Stars, Stripes, and a Stunner: America’s 250th Ends With Gaethje Champion on the White House Lawn
On June 15, 2023, Justin Gaethje became the UFC lightweight champion at UFC Freedom 250, held on the White House’s South Lawn during America’s 250th anniversary celebration. The event featured prominent military escorts, an exciting fight card, and concluded with fireworks, marking a historic night for sports in Washington, D.C.
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Maryland Is Bleeding Money. Voters Have a Choice.
Maryland’s upcoming Republican primary reveals significant governance failures under Wes Moore’s administration, particularly regarding costly public investments in racing. The state faces scrutiny over mismanaged deals like the Churchill Downs acquisition. Republican candidates Dan Cox, Ed Hale, and John Myrick offer specialized skills to address these procurement and legal issues, challenging Moore’s record.
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Maryland Is Trying to Buy Back a Race It Never Should Have Lost
Maryland plans to spend $85 million to reacquire the Preakness Stakes brand, previously owned by Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI). The state’s history of mismanagement raises concerns about its ability to effectively steward racing assets. CDI, with its successful track record, holds significant leverage in the negotiations.
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Maryland Spent $1.2 Billion on Baltimore’s Stadiums. What Are the Teams Spending on Baltimore’s Kids?
The New York Yankees recently honored 11,500 Bronx students for achievements in academics and community service, raising questions about Baltimore’s teams’ community contributions. Despite Maryland’s substantial financial support for stadiums, the Orioles’ outreach has diminished, lacking formal programs for local schools. There’s a growing demand for accountability regarding public investments in private franchises.
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Did Churchill Downs Give Wes Moore Buyer’s Remorse?
Governor Wes Moore’s $48.5 million purchase of Laurel Park, aimed at strengthening Maryland’s thoroughbred racing industry, faces a 45-day financial review that raises concerns. Past mismanagement and Churchill Downs’ acquisition of the Preakness name limit the state’s leverage. Moore must clarify if the investment strategy remains solid amid these challenges.
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The Preakness Doesn’t Need the Derby Winner. It Needs a Reason to Matter.
Golden Tempo will skip the Preakness Stakes for health reasons, highlighting a broader issue in Maryland’s horse racing industry. The current Triple Crown format relies too heavily on Derby winners, diminishing the Preakness’s significance. A proposed championship structure could enhance its value and attract competitors, ensuring it remains relevant regardless of Derby participation.
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Derby Winners Are Skipping the Preakness. Maryland Is Spending $400 Million on It Anyway.
Cherie DeVaux Racing announced that Golden Tempo will not compete in the Preakness Stakes, continuing a trend of Derby winners opting out due to modern training practices and financial considerations. Maryland’s $400 million investment in Pimlico faces challenges, as the state lacks control over scheduling and racing decisions, with no Triple Crown winners since 2018.
