Institute to help China fight AIDS

Already a force in the fight against AIDS in Africa, the Institute of Human Virology is expanding its reach to Asia. The organization, part of the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute, signed an agreement at a conference in Baltimore to help China control its emerging AIDS epidemic.
Orioles release pitcher Ponson The Orioles placed pitcher Sidney Ponson on unconditional release waivers for the purpose of terminating his contract, ending a relationship that began in 1993. The club noted his conduct, including three arrests since December.
High school pays heavy war toll Students returned to the first day at Forest Park High School and mourned two recent graduates who died recently fighting overseas. Army Staff Sgt. Damion G. Campbell was killed Aug. 26 in Afghanistan. Army Spc. Toccara Renee Green died in Iraq on Aug. 14.
Plans for state office complex State officials are considering tearing down the 25-acre downtown Baltimore state office complex and turning it into the foundation for a new entertainment, retail and residential hub. The potential redevelopment site would be the largest such effort in modern city history.
Financial analyst Westheimer dies Julius M. Westheimer, a Baltimore investment banker, raconteur and financial analyst for newspapers, radio and TV, died at 88.
Howard County plans smoking ban County Executive James N. Robey is preparing legislation that would ban smoking in Howard's restaurants and bars, following the example of Montgomery and Talbot counties and, supporters hope, strengthening momentum for a statewide ban.
Poverty growing in Maryland.

Source: http://www.baltimoresun.com/