WEATHER
The National Weather Service is calling for Thursday to be mostly sunny and hot in the Baltimore area, with a high near 97. Low humidity, low moisture and gusty winds increase the risk for fires. There is also a small craft advisory in effect Thursday night for the Maryland Chesapeake Bay from Smith Point to Drum Point.
TRAFFIC
Check our traffic updates for this morning's issues as you plan your commute.
FROM LAST NIGHT...
Man shot in Edgewood, flown to shock trauma: A man suffered one gunshot wound to the torso Wednesday night. His condition is unavailable and police had no suspects as of midnight last night. It does not appear to be a random act of violence.
Jason Hammel hurts his All-Star bid in 13-1 loss to Los Angeles Angels: It wasn't a great night at Camden Yards. Given how Hammel has pitched this season, he is allowed a clunker every now and then. Unfortunately last night's performance comes just before the All-Star game, and the 13-1 loss could hurt his chances.
City spending board approves IT consulting deals: Baltimore's Board of Estimates approved spending $4.5 million Wednesday to extend contracts with two information technology firms that provide workers to the city. The vote came after a public dispute between the Mayor and City Comptroller Joan M. Pratt over who will supervise the city's transition to an Internet-based phone system.
TODAY'S FRONT PAGE
As speed cameras spread, so does vandalism of them: During the past year, vans carrying speed cameras and stationary cameras positioned around the region have been targeted with rocks, spray paint and hammers.
Officer indicted in Christopher Brown's death after fight: A Baltimore County police officer was indicted Wednesday in the death of Randallstown teen, Christopher Brown, but the charges drew criticism from the boy's mother and the community, who continued calls for an outside investigation. James D. Laboard, a nine-year veteran, faces charges of voluntary and involuntary manslaughter.
Barry Landau to serve seven years in federal prison: Disgraced collector Barry H. Landau was sentenced Wednesday to seven years in federal prison for stealing thousands of historic documents worth as much as $2.5 million. He was also ordered to pay $46,525 in restitution.
City approves 9 percent increase in water rates as auditor says more over-billing found: Baltimore officials approved a 9 percent increase in water rates Wednesday as the city auditor revealed that the beleaguered system's billing problems are more extensive than previously known.
Supreme Court to deliver Obama healthcare law ruling: The Supreme Court is set to deliver on Thursday its ruling on President Barack Obama's 2010 healthcare overhaul. The nine justices are scheduled to take the bench at 10 a.m.
