We are back from a short summer break in the midst of painful, terrifying, and disappointingly dark times. As this issue went to print, we can’t help but bear witness to a crackdown on our neighbors just up the road in Washington, D.C., as part of the war this country’s government is waging against anyone who disagrees with them. It’s also one that’s threatening to campaign into Baltimore, Chicago, and other mostly Democrat-led cities with high populations of non-white people. It is heartbreaking and terrifying to see innocent people — rideshare drivers, food delivery people, and parents, all snatched up by federal agents.
Even in the ugliest of times, beauty still exists. And this time of the year, as summer ends and we can see the busyness of fall heading our way, it’s good to pause and appreciate it. On four different covers and inside the paper, we’ve chosen to feature different images from photographer Alec Zabrecky that highlight the beauty of Patterson Park, captured over the last three years. The photos show the diversity and beauty of our city. They capture slices of life — a parent pushing their child’s bicycle, young friendship, and individuals caught in quiet solitude.
“Patterson Park is a place where rhythms slow, soften, and unfold into something more intimate,” Zabrecky writes. “More than anything, this work is a love letter to the people of Baltimore who give the park its shape. One shaped by quiet connections, shared routines, and the everyday beauty that unfolds when you take the time to look.”
In this issue, journalist Baynard Woods writes about Sanctuary Collective, a project from beloved former Poly coach Sam Brand. The idea is to make sure that any talented Baltimore City kid who wants the kind of elite athletic training that could transport them to the big leagues can obtain it.
“Sanctuary will now offer this high-level, elite basketball training to Baltimore City kids on a donation-only basis. And this, Brand hopes, could reverse current trends giving rich kids all the advantages in the sport,” Woods writes.
Arts and Culture Editor Teri Henderson writes about Spitcam University, an ebullient celebration captured on video that features the best work of local DJs, rappers, dancers, and other artists.
“Imagine an extremely lit hybrid version of NPR’s Tiny Desk series mixed with your favorite house party, where familiar faces from various sections of Baltimore’s music scene dance ebulliently with red solo cups,” Henderson writes.
There’s so much more in this issue — including a look at an inclusive pick-up basketball game, our calendars, Best Beats, and tarotscopes.
Thanks for reading!