Tag: Baltimore

  • Who Actually Paid for the New M&T Bank Stadium

    Who Actually Paid for the New M&T Bank Stadium

    The Ravens recently completed a $489 million renovation of M&T Bank Stadium, funded largely by public bonds from a 2022 state law. Team President Sashi Brown thanked Maryland residents and politicians. The Ravens retain all revenue from the stadium, while taxpayers face questions about the project’s returns on their investment.

  • Camden Yards Emerges as Front-Runner for 2030 MLB All-Star Game, 37 Years After Its Last Turn

    Camden Yards Emerges as Front-Runner for 2030 MLB All-Star Game, 37 Years After Its Last Turn

    Baltimore may host the 2030 Major League Baseball All-Star Game, marking its first since 1993. Although the Orioles have not submitted a formal bid, support is growing due to the ballpark’s renovations and city incentives. Economic projections are tempered by skepticism about actual tourism impact versus initial estimates.

  • What Maryland Didn’t Consider

    What Maryland Didn’t Consider

    The Preakness announcement led to a new broadcast deal and date but did not resolve sixteen existing issues—eight created by Maryland and eight inherited from the industry. Key problems include reduced betting handle on Sundays and competition with major events like the PGA Championship, requiring Maryland to address structural shortcomings for racing’s future.

  • Pimlico Has No Plan for the Other 364 Days

    Pimlico Has No Plan for the Other 364 Days

    The new Pimlico Race Course, meant to be a year-round economic hub, currently supports only the Preakness Stakes, raising concerns about its long-term viability. Despite significant investments, no substantial programming or events are announced for the remaining 364 days, provoking skepticism among local residents and officials regarding its projected economic impact.

  • What Moore Announced — And What Comes Next

    What Moore Announced — And What Comes Next

    Governor Wes Moore’s press conference outlined major updates for the Preakness Stakes, including a historic Sunday date and a broadcasting deal with NBC through 2032. While the announcements were substantial, concerns about governance, competition with new racing series, and the economic implications for Maryland’s $633 million investment remain unaddressed.

  • The Baltimore Sun Got the World Cup Wrong. Watch the Fans.

    The Baltimore Sun Got the World Cup Wrong. Watch the Fans.

    The Baltimore Sun portrayed Baltimore’s exclusion from the 2026 World Cup as a fortunate escape, but fans see it differently. While host cities face challenges, the cultural exchange and tourism generated by the event could have greatly benefited Baltimore, which actively pursued hosting. The city lost an opportunity without transparent reasoning.

  • Why FIFA Really Passed Over Baltimore — And Whether the City Has Caught Up

    Why FIFA Really Passed Over Baltimore — And Whether the City Has Caught Up

    Baltimore’s bid to host the World Cup in 2026 faced rejection in 2022, attributed to factors like inadequate transit and hotel capacity. Four years later, crime rates have significantly decreased, but hotel inventory has worsened. While transit improvements are planned, the city must address hotel shortages to strengthen future bids for international events.

  • Baltimore Wasn’t Spared — It Was Passed Over

    Baltimore Wasn’t Spared — It Was Passed Over

    Baltimore’s bid for the 2026 World Cup, in partnership with Washington, D.C., was rejected despite strong logistics and local support. The decision not only disappointed city leaders but also highlighted a missed opportunity for economic and cultural exposure. As Baltimore grapples with this setback, future bids may rely on renewed leadership and advocacy.

  • Orioles Pride Night Features Drag Performer in Family Section, Drawing Sharp Fan Backlash

    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…

  • The Governor Bought a Horse Race

    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.