Inner County Outreach's Fresh Start Furnishings is excited to host a Community Clothing Drive on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and we would be grateful for your support in helping us spread the word.Donated clothing will help support individuals and families in our community who are working toward stability and a fresh start. Every donation makes a meaningful difference.Event DetailsDate: Saturday, August 29, 2026Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.Location: 1050 Hardees Drive, Aberdeen,
Hart Heritage is collecting school supplies through August 10th. All supplies will be given to Mason-Dixon Community Services to distribute to local children in need. Donations can be dropped off at our buildings or call Rebecca for additional information. Street – 3708 Grier Nursery Rd, Street MD 21154 Forest Hill – 1913 Rock Spring Rd, Forest Hill, MD 21050 Phone – 410-638-6047
Harford Chamber Announces New Vice President Bel Air, MD – The Harford County Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the promotion of Natalie Pixley to Vice President, effective July 1. Following four years of distinguished service as Director of Strategic Partnerships, Pixley steps into this executive role to partner with President & CEO, Angela Rose and the Board of Directors in advancing the Chamber’s strategic vision as it builds the foundation for the next 50 years of local economic
I'm honored to announce that from a pool of businesses across the nation, we were selected for the 2026 Confidence Collective, powered by Hello Alice and BOTOX® Cosmetic. The Confidence Collective is an initiative dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs. The program provides chosen business owners with 12 weeks of intensive hands-on training, mentorship, and resources covering digital strategy, marketing, finance, and pitch refinement.
From Washing Cars to General Manager: Five Decades of Leadership, Loyalty and ServiceBel Air, MD – July 14, 2026 – On June 29, Jones Junction celebrated a remarkable milestone as Larry Kropff marked 50 years of service with the company, a journey that began when he walked into the dealership as a teenager looking for his first job and evolved into a leadership career spanning five decades.Larry joined Jones Junction June 22, 1976, just after his 16th birthday. After responding to a newspaper advertisement
New Chair and Board Members for the Harford Community College Foundation Harford Community College Foundation (HCCF) has announced leadership changes for the new fiscal year. Lee Tayson will become the chair of the Harford Community College Foundation effective July 1, 2026, and serve for two years. Tayson has been on the Foundation Board of Directors since 2017 and is an alumnus of Harford Community College. He is replacing Eric Rebbert, who has served in the position with dedication for three years.
Harford County Public Library Foundation invites children who use wheelchairs to sign up for a free, custom-designed costume that fits around their wheelchairs as part of the annual Wheelchair Costume Workshop and Inclusive Trunk or Treat October 2-3 at Coppermine Bel Air Athletic Club. Thanks to sponsors and partners, costumes are provided free of charge to families. The Wheelchair Costume Workshop is an opportunity for children in Harford County who use wheelchairs as their primary mode of mobility to
The Social Media Illusion: Why Accountability, Problem-Solving, and Principles Still Matter in Business By James W. Jenkins The internet has changed business forever. Today, a teenager can build a global audience from a smartphone. A small startup can compete against established corporations. A single video can generate millions of views overnight. Yet beneath the excitement lies a growing problem that many entrepreneurs, business owners, and content creators are beginning to recognize. We are living
Group Benefit Strategies' Glenn Arrington Provides Expert Perspective on Maryland's FAMLI Program in The Baltimore Sun BEL AIR, Md. (July 10, 2026) – Group Benefit Strategies is proud to recognize President Glenn Arrington for being featured as a trusted industry expert in The Baltimore Sun on July 8, 2026, where he shared valuable insights on Maryland's Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program and its impact on employers across the state. As one of the region's leading employee benefits
McComas Family Funeral Homes Celebrates 218 Years of Service with Award-Winning Debut in Bel Air Fourth of July Parade **Bel Air, Md.** — For the first time in the McComas family's remarkable 218-year history, McComas Family Funeral Homes proudly participated in the Bel Air Fourth of July Parade with a custom-designed float celebrating its enduring commitment to the community. As the nation commemorates America's 250th anniversary, the McComas family reflected on its own milestone—218 years of serving
Harford County Students Represent Maryland at FBLA National Leadership Conference Students from Harford County Public Schools (HCPS) recently distinguished themselves on the national stage at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) National Leadership Conference in San Antonio, Texas June 28 through July 3, 2026. Joining more than 16,000 students from across the country, these outstanding student leaders demonstrated their business knowledge, professionalism, and leadership skills through competitive
“Spill the Wine, Tell the Story,” an evening with New York Times-bestselling author Nina Simon, takes place August 19 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Abingdon Library, 2510 Tollgate Road. This exclusive fundraising event benefits the Harford County Bar Foundation and Harford County Public Library. “Spill the Wine, Tell the Story” celebrates the release of Simon’s new book, “My Sister Is Going to Kill Me,” published on August 18. Simon will be in conversation with local author and Harford County Bar Foundation
Harford Financial Group, a financial services firm based in Bel Air that has a highly skilled team of professionals specializing in life-centered financial planning for individuals and business owners, was voted Best Financial Adviser in The Baltimore Sun’s Best 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards. The results were announced in The Sun on June 28, and a record number of individuals voted in the 2026 contest. This year marks the first time Harford Financial Group has received The Sun’s Best Financial Adviser
Harford County Public Library is offering numerous programs in July on a wide variety of subjects, from unseen patriots, 250th trivia, reading the Declaration of Independence to colonial gardeners, researching Revolutionary War genealogy, a patriotic sing-along and archeological finds. “This July marks an extraordinary milestone in our nation’s history, and Harford County Public Library is proud to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with an exciting lineup of programs for all ages. We invite our
CASE STUDYFrom Reactive to Resilient: IT Risk Assessment for a Specialty Trade SubcontractorEngagement Type: IT Assessment | Industry: Specialty Construction (Subcontractor) | Organization Size: ~10 employees24+Findings Documented18Recommendations Delivered$50K–$500K+Estimated Annual IT Exposure at Time of Engagement The Situation Stone Brook Solutions was engaged by a family-owned specialty trade subcontractor operating in the commercial and residential construction market. The organization
Chamber Awards 7 Scholarships at Annual Education Breakfast Bel Air, MD – The Harford County Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Education & Scholarship Breakfast on Friday, June 12th, at Harford Community College. This event celebrates the Harford County Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation scholarship recipients and recognizes the Harford County Public Schools’ Teacher of the Year. Furthermore, the event serves as an opportunity for the business community to gather and network with future leaders
"The Art of Healing,” a powerful community art exhibition that explores the transformative role of creativity in the journey through addiction and recovery, will be on display June 12 through August 1 at the Bel Air Library, 100 East Pennsylvania Avenue. Featuring 85 works by artists whose lives have been touched by addiction, the exhibition shares stories of resilience, healing and hope through artistic expression. The exhibition was organized by the Harford County Cultural Arts Board and Harford
Harford County Public Library’s 2026 Summer Reading program, with a theme of “Unearth a Story,” takes place June 1 through August 15 and encourages everyone – from infants, toddlers and preschoolers to children, teens and adults – to accomplish reading goals and continue learning throughout the summer. Participants are invited to sign up and keep track of books and activities by visiting https://www.hcplonline.org/summerreading.php A Summer Reading Celebration takes place at the Abingdon Library,
Harford County Cultural Arts Board (HCCAB) is accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2027 for three grants programs that support and strengthen Harford County’s arts and cultural community and ensure the ongoing availability and accessibility of the arts for Harford County residents and visitors. Submissions for Arts Organizations General Operating Support Grants and Arts Programming Grants are due June 26. Access Arts Grants are accepted on a rolling basis from June 15 through February 15, 2027. Grant
Chamber Hosts the 49th Annual Military Appreciation Event Bel Air, MD – On Tuesday, May 19th, The Harford County Chamber of Commerce hosted their annual Military Appreciation Luncheon event, presented by Freedom Federal Credit Union and hosted at Top of the Bay, Aberdeen Proving Ground. This year marked the 49th anniversary of the event, highlighting the Chamber’s history and commitment to Aberdeen Proving Ground and the men and women who serve our country in uniform. The event centered around the 250th
Bel Air dealership group earns national recognition for growth, customer experience and year-round performanceMay 26, 2026, BEL AIR, MD —Jones Junction is celebrating a series of major milestones, led by its first appearance on the Automotive News Top 150 Dealership Groups list.Jones Junction was named one of just six dealership groups nationwide to make the list for the first time, joining the ranks of the country’s top-performing automotive retailers. The Bel Air-based company, which operates eight
A sold-out crowd of 500 guests attended Harford County Public Library Foundation’s Third Annual Taste of Harford May 17 at Vignon Manor Farm in Havre de Grace. A buy local, taste local event, Taste of Harford celebrated the diverse flavors and skills of the Harford County agricultural and culinary communities. The event raised $40,000 and will support Harford County Public Library programs, resources and services that benefit readers of all ages across the community. Taste of Harford showcased a variety
The 13th Annual Amanda Hichkad CCA Celebration Walk held May 9 raised more than $85,000 (and counting) for Cancer LifeNet, bringing the cumulative total raised to more than $1.6 million over the past 13 years. This annual event, organized by the UM Upper Chesapeake Health Foundation, together with Chesapeake Cancer Alliance (CCA) volunteers, was held along the perimeter of the turf field at The John Carroll School in Bel Air. It brought together nearly 600 walkers and donors from across the community
Tickets to Harford County Public Library Foundation’s 22nd annual gala, “A Winter’s Ball: Revolution in the Stacks,” go on sale May 19 at midnight at HCPLonline.org. Community members are encouraged to purchase tickets early because the gala traditionally sells out quickly once tickets become available. Expected to attract more than 650 guests, “A Winter’s Ball: Revolution in the Stacks” takes place the evening of Saturday, November 7, from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Abingdon Library, 2510 Tollgate
Legislative Wrap-Up Provides Insights into the 2026 Legislative Session Bel Air, MD – On Thursday, April 30th, The Harford County Chamber of Commerce hosted their annual Legislative Wrap-Up event, hosted at Maryland Golf & Country Clubs and sponsored by Harford Community College. The event featured a panel of Maryland Delegates and Senators to discuss the results of the 2026 Maryland Legislative Session and key priorities for next year. The panel consisted of Senator Jason Gallion – District 35, Senator
Harford Financial Group’s Michael Clayton and Bryce Harrison have earned the Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA®) designation. The credential is awarded by the Exit Planning Institute and is designed for financial advisors who work with business owners to plan for the eventual transition or exit of their business. Both Clayton and Harrison are Certified Financial Planners™ with Harford Financial Group. Harford Financial Group Managing Principal Adam Freeland, CFP™, and Lead Advisor Melissa Mullan,
Harford Chamber Hosts 2nd Annual Harford Regional Civics BeeBel Air, MD – On Saturday, April 18, the Harford County Chamber of Commerce hosted the second annual Harford Regional Civics Bee in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and Civics Trust. The event was held at Towson University in Northeastern Maryland and sponsored by APG Federal Credit Union, Baltimore Gas & Electric, MedStar Health, Harford Bank, Harford County Public Library and Harford Community College. The event began in
McArtor & Co, formerly Maryland Homes Team of RE/MAX Components, announces its official name change to better reflect its growth and long-term vision in the Maryland, Delaware and Pennsylvania areas. The team continues to deliver the same trusted, client-first real estate service while expanding its reach, partnerships, and property offerings across Maryland and beyond. The new brand supports future opportunities without changing the people, values, or results clients expect.Fallston, MD, January 31, 2026
Dear Community Members, We are at a pivotal juncture, marking a profound strategic evolution for our organization. This moment signifies not an end, but the powerful genesis of a new era, singularly dedicated to cultivating the potential and fostering the growth of our next generation. Central to this renewed vision is the launch of **Literal Excellence USA**, an initiative designed to empower young minds with the tools for critical thinking, innovation, and leadership. Our commitment is unwavering:
The 13th Annual Amanda Hichkad CCA Celebration Walk, which raises funds for Cancer LifeNet, takes place Saturday, May 9, at The John Carroll School, 703 East Churchville Road in Bel Air. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., and the walk starts at 9 a.m. The UM Upper Chesapeake Health Foundation, together with Chesapeake Cancer Alliance (CCA) volunteers, hosts this walk to honor those affected by cancer and recognize care providers. This year's goal is to raise $125,000 to support Cancer LifeNet at the
Economic Insight Breakfast Equips Businesses with Knowledge and ResourcesBel Air, MD – On Tuesday, March 31st, The Harford County Chamber of Commerce hosted their annual Economic Insight event, presented by APG Federal Credit Union, at Maryland Golf & Country Clubs. Featured speakers: Dr. Daraius Irani of Towson University and Regional Economic Studies Institute, and Karen Holt of Harford County’s Department of Economic Development, and Ben Seigel, Deputy Comptroller of Maryland for Policy, Public Works,
Scaling your market research means building a repeatable system for gathering, analyzing, and acting on customer and competitive intelligence — so your business decisions stay grounded in data as your needs grow and change. For small businesses in the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson region, that system doesn't require a big budget or an outside consultant. It requires knowing which tools exist, which methods match your stage of growth, and how to keep your findings from sitting unused in a folder no one
A media kit is a curated collection of brand assets, company information, and story angles that helps businesses present themselves clearly to journalists, partners, and event organizers. For businesses seeking stronger public relations outcomes, increased visibility, and consistent media engagement, a well-built media kit acts as both a credibility signal and a conversion tool. It organizes your narrative so others can tell it accurately and quickly.Key Takeaways A media kit centralizes your brand
Sixty percent of small businesses encounter disputes with vendors or suppliers, and those disputes can drain 9% of annual revenue — a cost most owners never anticipate because they assumed a strong relationship would handle anything. In Harford County, where businesses regularly work across healthcare supply chains, federal contracting relationships, and the broader Baltimore logistics network, a vague agreement creates exposure that outlasts the deal. This guide covers what to include, what assumptions
Akehurst Landscape Service Celebrates 150 Years of Service, Innovation, and Community Impact Joppa, MD — March 13, 2026 — Akehurst Landscape Service, a trusted leader in the commercial landscape industry, proudly announces the celebration of its 150th anniversary, marking a century and a half of commitment to quality, integrity, and innovation. Founded in 1876, Akehurst Landscape Service has grown from its humble beginnings into a respected organization serving customers, partners, and communities
Inner County Outreach and Fresh Start Furnishings Unite to Address Furniture Poverty in Harford CountyAberdeen, MD — March 6, 2026 — Inner County Outreach (ICO) and Fresh Start Furnishings (FSF) have announced a strategic merger expanding access to furniture and coordinated support services for families across Harford County. Fresh Start Furnishings will now operate as Fresh Start Furnishings at Inner County Outreach, integrating its furniture program into ICO’s established service model. For more than
Harford County Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 50 Year AnniversaryBel Air, MD – On March 4, 2026, the Harford County Chamber of Commerce reached a historic milestone, celebrating the 50th anniversary of its incorporation. To mark five decades of service, the Chamber hosted a commemorative "Golden Anniversary Ribbon Cutting & Membership Social," bringing together business leaders, community partners, and local officials to honor the organization’s enduring legacy and vibrant future. Since its founding in
Harford Chamber and Partners Host Minority and Small Business Resource Fair Bel Air, MD – On Wednesday, February 25th, the Harford County Chamber of Commerce hosted the Minority & Small Business Resource Fair in partnership with the Harford County Department of Economic Development and Harford County Caucus of African American Leaders. The event, sponsored by APG Federal Credit Union, was held at the Converge Center in Aberdeen. The event featured 38 business resource vendors, 2 educational breakout
Small businesses in Harford County often grow fastest when they don’t grow alone. Partnerships—formal or informal—help owners expand their reach, reduce risk, and combine strengths that would be difficult to achieve individually. But successful collaboration doesn’t happen by accident; it’s engineered through clarity, communication, and trust. Learn below about: Why partnerships succeed or fail How to identify the right partner Ways to structure agreements that protect everyone Tools for keeping
Dear Reader, We are thrilled to share exciting news regarding a distinguished local author whose insightful work is gaining significant recognition. This accomplished writer is slated to be a featured personality in Issue 25 of a leading publication, which is scheduled for release on February 1, 2026. We invite you to explore the comprehensive article detailing the author's journey and contributions. Access to the full feature will be provided through an exclusive media link available upon the
County Executive Cassilly Provides Update for Business Community at Harford Chamber’s State of the CountyBel Air, MD – On Thursday, January 22nd, The Harford County Chamber of Commerce hosted their annual State of the County event, sponsored by MedStar Health. Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly gave his State of the County Address, sharing the administration’s accomplishments this past year and future opportunities. Harford Chamber Board Chair, Chris Stone of E-Moxie, welcomed guests and recognized
Bel Air, Md. - Harford Mutual Insurance Group (HMIG) is proud to announce it donated nearly $600,000 to more than 90 nonprofit and charitable organizations throughout 2025. Through its HMIG Gives Back Program, Harford Mutual’s direct contributions supported initiatives focused on health and human services, as well as community enrichment. This commitment to philanthropy reflects Harford Mutual’s continuous efforts to positively impact the communities it serves. The largest contributions were presented to
Bel Air, Md. - Harford Mutual Insurance Group (HMIG) is proud to announce a number of distinguished awards, accolades, and recognitions received in 2025. Harford Mutual received honors in 2025 for its innovative internal video series, “News in 90”, which delivers key company updates to employees in a concise and engaging format. The company earned a Gold Showcase Award from the Insurance Marketing & Communications Association (IMCA) in the “Other Employee Communication/Publication” category. HMIG was also
Chamber Hosts Pre-Legislative Breakfast with Army Alliance and State and National ChambersBel Air, MD – On Tuesday, December 16th, the Harford County Chamber of Commerce hosted their Eggs & Issues Legislative Breakfast, in partnership with the Army Alliance and presented by Harford Community College. This year’s event featured two panel discussions focused on each organizations’ priorities for the 2026 legislative session. Harford Chamber Board Chair, Chris Stone, E-Moxie, offered welcome remarks,
Harford County Public Library Foundation’s 21st annual gala, “Epic Rewind: Eighties in the Stacks,” raised $100,000 net the evening of November 1 at the Abingdon Library. The gala, attended by 650 guests, is the Library’s largest fundraiser. Proceeds support the Library’s programs for early literacy, STEM resources, internet access and vital community programs across Harford County. The Presenting Sponsors were Klein’s ShopRite of Maryland and Saxon’s Diamond Centers. For a complete listing of sponsors,
Harford Chamber Announces Harford Award Recipients, Celebrates Shining Stars of Business at 33rd Annual Ceremony Bel Air, MD – Members of the Harford County business community and local dignitaries gathered for the 33rd annual Harford Award on Monday, October 20th at Water’s Edge Events Center. The prestigious award honors companies and organizations which exemplify a strong commitment to the Harford County business community. Recipients are chosen through a nomination/application process focused on
Town of Bel Air Announces Annual Award Winners Bel Air, Maryland -- The Town of Bel Air and the Bel Air Economic & Community Development Commission (ECDC) held its Bel Air Annual Awards event on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at the Bel Air Armory in downtown Bel Air. John’s Men’s Clothing, located at 10 West Pennsylvania Avenue, took home top honors as the 2025 Business of the Year. Owners Beth Pocalyko and Maureen Bruneau were on hand to receive the coveted award, given by the Bel Air Board of
There’s a fine line between throwing money at a problem and investing in something that transforms a team. Training isn’t a cure-all, but when done for the right reasons, it becomes a catalyst. The challenge is knowing when the timing is right—and what kind of training will actually make a dent in performance or culture. Companies often rush to upskill or reskill without asking the deeper questions that separate check-the-box exercises from real development. The Tension Between Growth and Plateau The
We’re excited to announce that all of our urgent care centers are on MyChart! You can now experience a smoother check-in, view lab results, and more, with convenient access right at your fingertips. Learn more at umms.org/portal.
In the competitive landscape of startups, digital marketing is not just an option but a necessity for growth. The right strategies can significantly enhance your brand’s presence and foster meaningful connections with your audience. By adopting innovative marketing tactics, startups can navigate the complexities of the digital world and position themselves for long-term success. This article delves into effective strategies that can transform your startup’s marketing efforts, ensuring you stay ahead in
Kiddie Academy of North Bel Air is offering curriculum driven Full day in-person Kindergarten Program as well as FULL DAY School-Age Program with Before & After Care for Age 5-12 years! Call 410-684-3131 or Email at northbelair@kiddieacademy.net and learn more about it. Healthy breakfast, hot lunches, and snacks are provided including milk, fruits and vegetables!!!