Harford County Public Library celebrated its team and honored 50 staff members for various years of service at its annual Staff Day on October 12. The theme of the day was “Wild About Libraries,” and the celebration was held at Great Wolf Lodge.
“Our annual Staff Day is a reminder that one of the greatest strengths of Harford County Public Library lies in its people,” said Mary Hastler, CEO of Harford County Public Library, who also provided a state-of-the-Library presentation at the gathering. “Staff Harford County Cultural Arts Board (HCCAB), which operates under the auspices of the Harford County Public Library Board of Trustees, has awarded grant funding totaling $154,500 to support the general operations and arts programs for 26 nonprofits in Fiscal Year 2027. Funds will support community theatre productions, arts and cultural festivals, and concert series across Harford County.
HCCAB provides General Operating Support Grants, open to eligible arts nonprofits based in Harford County, and Arts More than 1,000 children participated in Harford County Public Library’s Inclusive Trunk or Treat on October 3 at Coppermine Bel Air Athletic Club. It followed the Wheelchair Costume Workshop, a two-day event in which volunteers created fantasy Halloween costumes for seven children who use wheelchairs.
The Inclusive Trunk or Treat, open to all ages and abilities, began with children in wheelchair costumes parading out together, showing off their new costumes beneath a balloon arch. Over 50 vehicles were look important to everyone else, but to the person living them, they mean everything.
Passing a test. Walking into a classroom after years away from one. Starting over financially. Going back to work. Rebuilding a dream that once felt too far away. Getting another opportunity after disappointment. Taking one more step when quitting would have been easier.
Those are the moments that change a life.
Today, I am celebrating another milestone reached.
I passed my CDL permit, completed my classroom training, Harford County Public Library is offering numerous “Spooktacular” events in October to showcase Halloween-themed programs for customers of all ages, from writing a ghost story and conducting spooky science experiments to a horror movie marathon, story time, dance parties and more.
“Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year, and the Library is brewing up plenty of fun for all ages,” said Mary Hastler, CEO of Harford County Public Library. “From crafting spooky creations and conducting eerie
From the Streets to a Broader Vision: The THINKER Method™ Keeps Growing
What happens when a book becomes bigger than the book?
That’s the question behind the latest chapter of The THINKER Method™, created by James W. Jenkins.
What began with The Complainer and the Thinker—a book built around personal responsibility, choices, consequences, and the difference between simply reacting to life and learning to think through it—has continued to evolve.
And now, something bigger is taking shape.
From Story Harford County Public Library is offering numerous programs in the fall to showcase autumn-themed programs for customers of all ages, from a pumpkin party to apple boat races to a crafternoon, pumpkin spice tasting and more.
“Autumn is one of the most beautiful and anticipated seasons of the year, and the Library is delighted to offer a wide variety of programs that help our customers celebrate all the sights, flavors and traditions of fall. From pumpkin-themed activities and apple-inspired fun to
Something new is taking shape around The THINKER Method™ — and the next chapter is about to be published.
For James W. Jenkins, Creator and Founder of The THINKER Method™ and author of The Complainer and the Thinker, the journey has never been simply about writing a book.
It has been about turning experience into an idea, an idea into a framework, and a framework into a vision that can continue to grow.
That journey has taken Jenkins from difficult and gritty beginnings to new opportunities in Harford County’s Business Voice Must Be Heard
Bel Air, MD – The November 2026 election will shape the cost and competitiveness of doing business in Harford County for years to come. The leaders elected this cycle will confront a state budget gap, rising energy and health-care costs, workforce and housing challenges, and growing pressure on local governments. When the Maryland General Assembly convenes in January, these issues will become legislation, regulations, taxes, and spending decisions that Harford County Public Library presents Senior Connections, a series of programs in September, October and November that provide seniors and their caregivers with practical information to make their lives healthy, happy and safe.
“Harford County Public Library has always been a place where seniors can learn, connect and discover new opportunities,” said Mary Hastler, CEO of Harford County Public Library. “This fall, we are expanding our focus with an enhanced lineup of programs that promote lifelong Harford County Public Library Foundation’s Board of Directors has elected new Executive Committee leadership: Matthew Buecker, president; Matthew L. Allison, vice president; Phil Logan, treasurer; and Brianna Stinebaugh-Blumberg, secretary, for a two-year term. In addition, Marie-Yves Nadine Jean-Baptiste was elected to the Board of Directors for a three-year term.
“The Library’s Foundation has always had a remarkable ability to attract some of the best and brightest professionals and community leaders to Har-Go Rides is looking for Volunteer DriversHar-Go Rides is a new community program in Harford County that provides low-cost rides to seniors that need assistance getting to their medical appointments. We are run by Presbyterian Home of Maryland, a non-profit organization, out of the Hart Heritage Assisted Living Facilities in Forest Hill and Street. We are currently looking for volunteers willing to help seniors within the community by becoming volunteer drivers! If you are interested in becoming a Harford County Cultural Arts Board and Harford County Public Library are partnering with the Harford County Photography Group on Through the Lens, a traveling exhibition that will visit libraries from August 2026 through April 2027. The exhibit will bring award-winning local photography to seven libraries throughout the county, making the arts more accessible to Harford County residents.
Featuring winning images from the Harford County Photography Group’s annual competition, Through the Lens explores
BEL AIR, Md. — SSGI Benefits, a Decker family-owned independent employee benefits agency serving Harford County, has launched complimentary Maryland FAMLI Employer Action Reviews to help local organizations prepare for the state’s paid family and medical leave requirements.
Important employer deadlinesSeptember 1, 2026: Employer registration and private-plan Declaration of Intent submissions open.November 15, 2026: Declaration of Intent deadline for employers pursuing a private plan for 2027 and seeking
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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!!!
Harford County Public Library Honors 50 Staff Members for Service Anniversaries at Annual Staff Day
Harford County Cultural Arts Board Announces General Operating Support Grants and Arts Programming Grants for Fiscal Year 2027
More Than 1,000 Children Participate in Harford County Public Library’s Inclusive Trunk or Treat
Another Milestone — CDL Permit Passed
How to Have a ‘Spooktacular Time’ at Harford County Public Library
From the Streets to a Broader Vision: The THINKER Method™ Keeps Growing
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Harford County Public Library Announces Autumn-Themed Featured Programs
The Next Chapter: The THINKER Method™ Is About to Enter a New Spotlight
Harford County’s Business Voice Must Be Heard
Harford County Public Library Cares About Its Seniors
Harford County Public Library Foundation Elects New Executive Committee Leadership, New Board Member
News Release: 8/11/2026
Harford County Public Library Hosts Traveling Exhibition Through the Lens, Featuring Harford County Photography Group’s Annual Competition Winners
SSGI Benefits Launches Maryland FAMLI Action Reviews for Harford County Employers
Harford Chamber Announces New Vice President
Jones Junction celebrates Larry Kropff’s 50 Years of service
Harford Financial Group Voted Best Financial Adviser
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Chamber Awards 7 Scholarships at Annual Education Breakfast
Harford County Cultural Arts Board Accepting Applications for Grants
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Chamber Hosts the 49th Annual Military Appreciation Event
13th Annual Amanda Hichkad CCA Celebration Walk Brings Together Nearly 600 Walkers, Donors to Support Cancer LifeNet
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Tickets for Harford County Public Library Foundation’s 22nd Annual Gala, ‘A Winter’s Ball: Revolution in the Stacks,’ Go On Sale May 19
Legislative Wrap-Up Provides Insights into the 2026 Legislative Session
Harford Chamber Hosts 2nd Annual Harford Regional Civics Bee
Economic Insight Breakfast Equips Businesses with Knowledge and Resources
How Harford County Small Businesses Can Scale Market Research Without a Research Firm
The Business Case for Building a Media Kit That Gets You Noticed
Before You Shake Hands: A Contract Guide for Harford County Business Owners
Akehurst Landscape Service Celebrates 150 Years of Service, Innovation, and Community Impact
Inner County Outreach and Fresh Start Furnishings Unite to Address Furniture Poverty in Harford County
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Harford County Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 50 Year Anniversary
Harford Chamber and Partners Host Minority and Small Business Resource Fair
How Small Business Owners in Harford County Can Collaborate Effectively
County Executive Cassilly Provides Update for Business Community at Harford Chamber’s State of the County
Harford Mutual Insurance Group Donates Nearly $600,000 to Nonprofit and Charitable Organizations in 2025
Chamber Hosts Pre-Legislative Breakfast with Army Alliance and State and National Chambers
2025 Harford Award Press Release
Town of Bel Air Announces Annual Award Winners 2025
Training Isn't Optional: Knowing the Right Time to Educate Your Team
University of Maryland Urgent Care is now on MyChart
Propel Your Startup’s Success Through Savvy Digital Marketing Tactics
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
