January 2018 - Catonsvillecontact information and committees. A Newsletter from the VIEW I N S I D E...

The Chamber

January 18, 2018Business Awardswith MC Mike Bordick

Overhills Mansion

Photo by Balance Photography

2018 Board of Directors: (front row, l to r) Karen Gatzke; Marleen Griffin; Cathy Schneider, Past President; Joe Poisal, President; Eric Lamb; Kathleen Carr; (back row, l to r) Jack Murphy; Christine Salak; Kendall Skirven; Sue Plitt, Secretary; Omar Jennings IV; Linda Saur; Mary Miller. Not pictured: Margaret Burdette,Treasurer; Andy Bridges, Vice President; and Lou Weinkam, Jr., Legal Counsel. See page 8 for board members’contact information and committees.

A Newsletter from the

VIEWI N S I D E

This Issue

January2018

President’s Message

Call for Outstanding Teacher 2Awards Nominations

Honoring The Best of 2017 4Holiday Party Photos 6Welcome Our Chamber’s2018 Board of Directors 8Member News

Welcome New Member 92018 Calendar 11

RECOGNIZINGINGTHE BEST OF 2017

EE ach year the Catonsville Chamber’s Business Development Committee selects chamber members who best

exemplify the chamber’s mission within thecommunity it serves. These businesses effectpositive change in our area and foster growthand expansion within the business community,contributing to the betterment of the town welove. And this year’s event offers a special incen-

tive for joining the celebration. Thanks tochamber member League of Dreams, we have avery special guest as our master of ceremonies.Mike Bordick, Oriole Hall of Fame Shortstop,

MASN Analyst and Chairman of League ofDreams, will be joining us.Wonderful events like this would not be possi-

ble without the support of our chamber membersponsors. We thank CCBC - Catonsville; SenatorEd Kasemeyer; BHealth Management, LLC;Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage; andNarcissus Salon & Spa for their generous contri-butions.Make plans now to honor your fellow

chamber members and meet our distinguishedguest at the Catonsville Business Awards on

continued on page 4

2 Greater Catonsville Chamber Newsletter • www.catonsville.org

Editor,Design & Layout

Teal CaryGCCC Executive Director

410-719-9609

PURPOSEThe purpose of the Chamber of

Commerce is to have a strong voicewith the county government, business and local community;

to affect positive change in our area;to foster growth and expansion ofour members’ business; and toachieve the betterment of the Catonsville community.

Chamber Web Site:www.catonsville.org

ADVERTISING & PROMOTIONOPPORTUNITIES

One-Page Insert $75Get special attention for an

event, sale, etc. An 8 1/2 “ x 11”insert (pdf file) in The Viewprovided by your business.

Event SponsorshipYour company can be

highlighted at one of our monthly events.(Costs vary)

Business After Business HostInvite the Chamber to your

location for onsite promotion.(Costs vary)

WebsiteBanner AdvertisingSidebar Advertising

Check the Homepage of theChamber’s website for additionalopportunities to promote your

business

Call the Chamber Office410.719.9609for more information.

VIEWThe Chamber

family owned businesses making shoppinglocal such a pleasure and an importantboost to our economy. Many of those small business owners

serve on our Chamber’s Board of Directors,which is comprised of fifteen very talentedfellow members that volunteer hours ofservice to this amazing town. I look forwardto working with our Board, and you, to helpCatonsville continue to thrive, and to alwaysbe a great place to live. Let’s have an outstanding 2018! We are the

reason that “Life Is Great In 21228”. Thank you, and happy New Year!

The Chamber Working for YouPresident’s Message

Joe Poisal2018 President

II am very honored tobe your nextCatonsville Chamber

of Commerce President.I grew up right here inCatonsville, and I’m excited about our future. Our town has so

much to offer. One key to our success is thatCatonsville is comprised of many resident

TIME TO NOMINATE ANOUTSTANDING TEACHER

TT he Greater Catonsville Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for oursixth annual "Outstanding Teacher Awards" reception to be held on Thursday, April 12, 2018 at 5:30 p.m.

Students, parents, fellow teachers, and community members and businesses are encour-aged to nominate teachers, individuals and organizations they believe have made an out-standing impact. An online nomination form can be found at www.catonsville.org and aprintable nomination form can be found there, as well. Nomination forms can also be ob-tained from participating Baltimore County public and private schools, and at the GreaterCatonsville Chamber Office (924 Frederick Road). The deadline for the submission of all nominations

is March 1, 2018.Nominations received after this datewill not be considered. Hand delivered or emailed nominations must be received by 5:00 pm. Mailed nominations must be postmarked by the due date.

Greater Catonsville Chamber of Commerce presents

The CatonsvilleBusiness Awards

Honoring the Best of 2017January 18, 2018

(inclement weather date - Jan. 25, 2018)

Overhills Mansion, 916 S. Rolling RoadWith Special Guest and MC Mike Bordick,

Orioles Hall of Fame Shortstop, MASN Analyst, and Chairman of the Board for League of Dreams, Inc.

�5:30 pm Cocktails, Appetizers, Networking

6:15 pm Remarks by Special Guest Mike Bordick

6:30 pm Business Awards & Remarks with a Toast to the Winners

7:00 pm Networking and a Live-Action Dessert

�Tickets-$40 for registered & pre-paid members,

$50 at door and for non-members

�www.catonsville.org, 410-719-9609

Greater Catonsville Chamber Newsletter • www.catonsville.org 3

Thursday, January 18 from 5:30 to 7:30p.m. at historic Overhills Mansion. Theawards evening will begin with cocktailsand hors d'oeuvres. This is an opportunityto meet and greet our award winners andMC. At 6:15, Mike Bordick will make remarks and at 6:30 we will formallyhonor our winners, before enjoying a live-action dessert and conversation.

And the 2017 honorees are...ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

PAT’S PORCH

The winner of this year’s Entrepreneur-ial Spirit Award had a dream that very

fortunately happened to coincide with aneed in Catonsville. Recognizing that ourmain street lacked a gift shop, Beth Reymann created an inviting store with anideal blend of fresh clean design and old-time nostalgia. Much of her merchandiseincludes custom Catonsville gifts that cannot be found in any other store and allthe items are made in the United States. In addition, since her shop opened on thesite of the legendary Ken’s Candy store,she was determined to keep that local tradition alive by continuing the practiceof offering fine chocolate and nostalgiccandy. Pat’s Porch features a welcoming

covered front porch complete with rock-ing chairs where visitors can sit and watchthe world of Frederick Road pass by. Well known in Catonsville for her tire-

less volunteer efforts, Beth combined herexceptional taste and love of the ‘Ville tocreate an outstanding addition to down-town Catonsville’s streetscape and community. The Greater Catonsville Chamber of

Commerce is thrilled to present Pat’sPorch the Best of 2017 Entrepreneur SpiritAward.

COMMUNITY ENTHUSIAST

ROOSTER + HEN

In one year of operation, the winner ofour Community Enthusiast Award hasdelivered a wonderful array of resourcesto the Catonsville community. With a mission aimed at helping to sustain localagriculture, Rooster + Hen offers locally-produced groceries seven days a week,thereby supporting Catonsville food

producers, keeping more revenue in town,and offering an environmentally consciousalternative to the large-scale food system.Shop owners Allison Smith and JoeMcRedmond collaborate with small busi-nesses and artists to create a unique experience. For instance, the Rooster +Hen holds frequent arts workshops to support and promote local artists. In addition, the store hosts regular concertsto benefit Catonsville musicians and provide families a relaxing place to enjoylive music in a family-friendly atmosphere.Baltimore Magazine named Rooster + Henas the Best Boutique Grocer of 2017 andwhile we hope Allison and Joe spread theirpositive influence all throughout the region, we are grateful that they centertheir efforts right here. It is with great pleasure that the Greater

Catonsville Chamber of Commerce presents the Best of 2017 Community Enthusiast Award to Rooster + Hen

SERVICE/RETAILER

WHITEHOUSE CATERERS

This award was created to recognize aCatonsville business that “continues to

provide superior customer service andproducts that enhance the greaterCatonsville community.” No business ismore deserving of that description thanthis year’s winner, Whitehouse Caterers atOverhills Mansion. A family-owned opera-tion for over 30 years, Whitehouse Catererstakes great pride in hand-crafting the per-fect flavors and presentation, customizingevery detail to suit clients’ needs, and serv-ing everything with the utmost hospitality.Anyone who has attended an event at thepicturesque Overhills Mansion can easilyunderstand why Whitehouse Caterers is afour-time recipient of the Couples ChoiceAward from Wedding Wire, was namedBest Wedding Reception Venue by TheKnot, and consistently earns rave reviewson all aspects of their service. Recently,Whitehouse Caterers took advantage of anopportunity to expand throughout the sec-ond story of the mansion, undertaking a$20,000 renovation that erased decades ofcracked plaster, old carpet and garish paintand opened the space into an elegantmeeting room along with a well-appointedbridal suite and groom’s room. With immense pleasure, the Greater

Catonsville Chamber of Commerce pres-ents the Best of 2017 Service/RetailerAward to Whitehouse Caterers.

REVITALIZATIONASH + OAK SALON AND SPA

The winner of our Revitalization Awardtook possession of a storefront known

for beloved seasonal window displays andgave the community an even better view.Owner Amanda Hancock poured herheart and soul into creating a breathtakingrenovation of the space at 700 FrederickRoad to create Ash + Oak Salon and Spa.Upgrading every nook and cranny of thespace, she turned a long time real estateoffice into what real estate experts nowcall “a work of art.” In fact, her renovationinvested the space with so much eleganceand refinement that other tenants in thebuilding used her décor as the model fortheir own renovations. Visitors to the salonwho remember the real estate office havea hard time believing they’re in the samespace. The traditional, cubical small officespaces has been replaced by an open con-cept salon with high-end flooring, customtile feature walls and sophisticated backlitalcove shelving. The effect is stunning.With great joy, the Greater Catonsville

Chamber of Commerce presents the Bestof 2017 Revitalization Award to Ash + OakSalon and Spa

LEGACY

DON METTEE AGENCY - NATIONWIDE INSURANCE

The winner of our Legacy Award startedworking in the insurance field in 1973,

doing business without word processing,faxes, emails, computer spreadsheets,cellphones, laptops or the internet. Poli-cies weren’t exactly carved in stone backthen, but it is safe to say that the industryhas seen tremendous change over thecourse of Don Mettee’s career, and hemanaged to stay on top of it all. Industryassociates praise his knowledge, experi-ence and ability to devise solutions tochallenging problems. He is also knownfor having a gift for explaining difficultcommercial insurance concepts while stillkeeping his audience engaged—no meanfeat to be sure.Founding his own Nationwide Insur-

ance agency in 1978, Don also served as afounding member of the ProfessionalBusiness Builders and has been an activesupporter of the Catonsville Chamberthroughout his career. Although he retired

RECOGNIZINGINGTHE BEST OF 2017 continued from page 1


continued on page 10

Do you love talking about your business, but when it’s your turn toshare your story with others at an event you get lost as what to say

or how to say it? Then this new networking seminar is for YOU!

Friday, January 26, 2018 • 7:30-9:30 am(Snow Date: Friday, February 2, 7:30 am)

The Y in Catonsville • 850 S. Rolling RoadOur seminar instructor, Christine Salak, has more than 19 years in an industry that

includes nonprofit management, membership development, communications, marketing,and media relations. Christine is currently the Association Director of Engagement for the Y in Central Maryland. She will share tips and tricks to help you overcome those

networking jitters and get you prepared to maximum your time and results at any networking event.

Members: Pre-Registered $25, At the Door $35, Non-Members: $35 Cost includes breakfast catered by McDonald’s Restaurant Catonsville.

Register online at www.catonsville.org, or call 410-719-9609

Make NetworkingWORK for YOU!

Make NetworkingWORK for YOU!



The Chamber In Pictures

Holiday PartyDecember 7, 2017


Photos by Balance Photography

AA t the Chamber’s November Network the ‘Ville event, members voted to elect the 2018

Board of Directors and adopted the 2018Budget. The Chamber welcomes the following

officers and directors whose vision willlead us through the new year:

PRESIDENT

Joe PoisalCaton Auto Clinic6009 - 6013 Baltimore National PikeCatonsville, MD 21228(443) [email protected]

VICE PRESIDENT

Andy BridgesCosmic Comix & Toys87 Mellor AvenueBaltimore, MD 21228(410) [email protected]

SECRETARY

Susan PlittUMBC1000 Hilltop Circle , M/P 204Baltimore, MD 21250(410) [email protected]

TREASURER

Margaret BurdetteFive Star Federal Credit Union716 Maiden Choice Lane, Suite 101Catonsville, MD 21228(443) [email protected]

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Omar Jennings IV, Chair AXA Advisors6200 Old Dobbin LaneColumbia, MD 21045(410) [email protected]

Mary MillerBay Bank4600 Wilkens Avenue, Suite 105Arbutus, MD 21229(410) [email protected]

BUSINESS NETWORKING

Linda Sauer, Chair Signs By Tomorrow1603 Sulphur Spring RoadArbutus, MD 21227(410) [email protected]

Christine SalakThe Y in Catonsville850 S. Rolling RoadCatonsville, MD 21228(410) [email protected]

BUSINESS PROMOTIONShop the ‘Ville Campaign

Andy Bridges, Co-Chair Cosmic Comix & Toys87 Mellor AvenueBaltimore, MD 21228(410) 747-3041www.cosmiccomix.com

Karen Gatzke, Co-Chair We Love Catonsville508 Hilton AvenueCatonsville, MD 21228(410) [email protected]

EDUCATION

Outstanding Teacher Awards,ScholarshipsKathleen Carr, Chair Erie Insurance - The Upper Chesapeake Insurance900 S. Charles StreetBaltimore, MD 21230(410) [email protected]

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

Legislative LuncheonsEric Lamb, Chair Law Offices of Eric Lamb/ Property Title & Escrow, LLC7008 Security Blvd., Suite 220Baltimore, MD 21244(410)[email protected]

John MurphyMurphy & Murphy, LLC14 North Rolling RoadCatonsville MD 21228(410) [email protected]

MEMBER ENGAGEMENTMarleen Griffin, Chair Five Star Federal Credit Union716 Maiden Choice Lane, Suite 101Baltimore, MD 21228(443) [email protected]

Kendall SkirvenColdwell Banker Catonsville6031 University Blvd, Suite 100Ellicott City, MD 21043(410) [email protected]

PAST PRESIDENT/NOMINATING Cathy Schneider, Chair Edible Arrangements734 Frederick RoadCatonsville, MD 21228(410) [email protected]

SPECIAL EVENTSSunday Farmers MarketCatonsville Arts & Crafts FestivalTeal Cary, Chair 924 Frederick Road Catonsville, MD 21228(410) 719-9609 [email protected]

Frederick Road FridaysJoe Poisal, Chair Caton Auto Clinic6009 - 6013 Baltimore National PikeCatonsville, MD 21228(443) [email protected]

Holiday PartyMarleen Griffin, Chair Five Star Federal Credit Union716 Maiden Choice Lane, Suite 101Baltimore, MD 21228(443) [email protected]

LEGAL COUNSEL

Lou Weinkam, Jr.Weinkam & Weinkam, P.A.1002 Frederick Road Catonsville, MD 21228(410) [email protected]

WELCOME OUR 2018 CHAMBER BOARD



The Chamber New MemberMember Plus Level

Bayline Studios Photography and Events, LLCRobert McLean635 Frederick RoadCatonsville, MD 21228(410) [email protected] www.baylinestudios.com

Bayline Studios is a team of nationally recognized, awardwinning photographers. They specialize in weddings, events,fine art portraiture and commercial photography. BaylineStudios travels both nationally and internationally for commissioned assignments.

The Chamber Members News

Professional Business Builders is a private business groupwhich was started in Catonsville in 1998.We are a group of professionals doing business in and around

the Catonsville, Maryland area. Because we like and respect one an-other, we find that providing each other excellent quality businessleads comes easily and enthusiastically. What distinguishes us fromother leads groups in the area is that we have fun while we take joyin helping each other to build our businesses.We meet weekly on Thursday mornings at Cafe on the Grove. We

are currently seeking new members in business categories that arenot represented by our members.Please visit our website at http://professionalbusinessbuilders.biz

or call 410-536-0064 for more information.

Established Business Builders Group Looking to Add New Members

Farmhouse Greens Hosts Healthy Campaign to Help Cutomers Shed Holiday Pounds

Farmhouse Greens is proud to announce our "Eating Healthyfor the New Year" campaign! If you have made the resolutionto shed those unwanted holiday pounds, we are here to help!

Stop by and get your very own Loyalty Card and every 12th bowl ison us! 2018 is YOUR Year to lose weight and feel great in the 21228! As

always, feel free to have your next party or get together catered byFarmhouse Greens and our many healthy options!

Awning and Painting Facelift Enhances The Shops on Mellor

The Shops on Mellor has recently completed a facelifton 15-35 Mellor to create a more contemporary look.The site replaced older awnings with new individual

ones over each doorway. The new look places black awningsagainst light tan walls and includes tenant wall plates inblack with white lettering. In addition to hosting the Frederick Road Fridays events

this summer, The Shops on Mellor agreed to host the Farm-ers Market every Sunday begining in July of 2017. This relo-cation from across the street provided a more cozy feel andwas a great success from the point of view of both the market vendors and the public.


Matthew DuniganEdward Jones Financial AdvisorContributing View Columnist

IIf you could accomplish all your financial goalsjust by putting your paycheck into the bankevery couple of weeks, you wouldn’t need the

services of a financial advisor. But life isn’t thatsimple – and so, at some point, you may realize youneed some professional assistance. But when?

Actually, you might benefit from the services of a financial advisor during many life events, including the following:

• Starting your career – When you’re starting out in your career,you may encounter several questions related to your benefits package. Should you contribute to your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored plan? If so, how much, and where should you invest yourmoney? Are the life and disability insurance policies offered by youremployer sufficient for your needs? A financial advisor can help youanswer these and other questions you may have.

• Getting married – When you get married, you’ll have to decide if,and how, you want to combine your finances. Also, you and yourspouse may have different attitudes about investing and different tolerances for risk. A financial professional can help youfind common ground.

• Changing jobs – When you switch jobs, what should you do withyour old employer’s retirement plan? And how should you invest inthe plan offered by your new employer? As was the case when youfirst began your career, you may find that a financial professional can help you make the right choices.

• Facing a layoff or buyout – You may never go through a layoff, ortake a buyout offer from an employer – but if either of these eventshappen, you will face some financial decisions. And during such apotentially stressful period, you may be tempted to make some financial moves that won’t be beneficial. A financial advisor can suggest some strategies that may help you keep your investment situation relatively intact until you land your next job.

• Saving for college – If you have children whom you’d like to sendto college someday, you’ll probably want to start putting moneyaway as early as possible. A financial professional can show you thevarious college-savings vehicles, and help you choose the ones thatare most appropriate for your needs.

• Getting divorced – If you are fortunate, you won’t ever experiencea divorce, but, if it does happen, you’ll want to get the professionalassistance necessary to ensure fair outcomes for everyone. You’ll obviously need to work with an attorney, but you may find that, inthe area of investments, a financial advisor also can be useful.

• Entering retirement – As you near retirement, your key questions will switch – but not entirely – from putting money in totaking money out. How much can you withdraw each year from your401(k) and IRA without running the risk of outliving your resources? When should you start taking Social Security? If you wereto work a couple of years longer than you had originally intended, how would it affect your withdrawal strategies? Again, a financial advisor can help you with these issues.

As you can see, most important life events will carry some finan-cial concerns. But you don’t have to face these challenges alone – andby getting the help you need, when you need it, you can ease thetransition from one stage of life to another

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

WHENDOYOUNEED AFINANCIAL ADVISOR?

this past October, he will continue in a consulting role with theagency and hopefully continue to be a familiar sight inCatonsville.The Greater Catonsville Chamber of Commerce is pleased to

present the Best of 2017 Legacy Award to the Donald E. MetteeInsurance Agency.

Don’t worry! There are still a number of surprises left forthe Catonsville Business Awards. We will announce the recipients of the President’s Award, and the Businesspersonof the Year on the night of the 18th. Tickets are available for$40 each and can be purchased online atwww.catonsville.org.

THE BEST OF 2017

16th MEGA NETWORKING EVENT

Wednesday, January 31, 2018(Inclement weather date: Feb. 5, 2018)

5:30 to 7:30 pmSheraton Baltimore North903 Dulaney Valley Road, Towson, MD 21204

Network with businesses throughout Baltimore County.Includes a trade show. Show off your business for ONLY $125, includes one registration fee. $150 for non-members. Contact the chamber office to reserve your space. First Come, First Served!

Members: Pre-Registered $25, At the Door $35, Non-Members:$40 Cost includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and one FREE drink ticket. Cash Bar will be available.

Make sure to validate your parking ticket at the front desk for FREE PARKING!

Register today online at www.catonsville.org

Event Sponsored By: Catonsville Chamber of Commerce, Greater Arbutus Business Association, BaltimoreCounty Chamber of Commerce, Chesapeake Gateway Chamber of Commerce, Dundalk Chamber of Commerce, Dundalk Renaissance Corporation, Hereford Zone Business Association, Hunt Valley Business Forum, Liberty Road Business Association, Parkville Carney Business Association, Perry Hall White Marsh Business Association, PikesvilleChamber of Commerce, Reisterstown/Owings Mills/Glyndon Chamber of Commerce, and the Towson Chamber ofCommerce

Towson, Baltimore County

continued from page 4


JANUARYEvent: Chamber Business AwardsSponsors: CCBC- Catonsville, SenatorEd Kasemeyer, BHealth Management, Coldwell Banker, Narcissus Salon & SpaMC: Mike BordickDate: Thursday, January 18, 2018(Inclement Weather Date: Jan. 25)Time: 5:30 - 7:30 pmPlace: Overhills Mansion

916 S. Rolling RoadCost: $40 pre-registered & pre-paid

$50 at door

Event: Network the ‘Ville SeminarDate: Friday, January 26, 2018Time: 7:30 am Place: The Y in CatonsvilleCost: $25 pre-registered & pre-paid

$35 at door, $35 non-members

Event: Mega Networking Event & Trade Show

Joint event with other County ChambersDate: Wednesday, January 31, 2018(Inclement Weather Date: Feb. 5)Time: 5:30 - 7:30 pmPlace: Sheraton Baltimore NorthCost: $25 pre-registered & pre-paid


FEBRUARY

Event: Network the ‘VilleDate: Monday, February 12, 2018Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pmPlace: Sneha Indian Cuisine

Co-host EmbroidMe 6600 Baltimore National Pike

Cost: $10 pre-registered & pre-paid$15 at door & non-members

MARCHEvent: Bacon ‘N Business SeminarDate: Thursday, March 1, 2018Time: 7:30 amPlace: Brightview Rolling HillsCost: $25 pre-registered & pre-paid


Event: Network the ‘VilleDate: Monday, March 12, 2018Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pmPlace: TBACost: $10 pre-registered & pre-paid

$15 at door & non-members

APRILEvent: Network the ‘VilleDate: Monday, April 9, 2018Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pmPlace: Guidewell Financial Solutions

Co-host Pivot Physical Therapy757 Frederick Road

Cost: $10 pre-registered & pre-paid$15 at door & non-members

Event: Outstanding Teacher AwardsDate: Thursday, April 12, 2018Time: 5:30 pmPlace: CCBC Center for the ArtsCost: Tickets $25 pre-registered

$35 at door

MAYEvent: Opening of Sunday Farmers

Market (each Sun. 5/6 to 11/18)Date: Sunday, May 6, 2018Time: 9:00 amPlace: 15 Mellor AvenueCost: FREE

Event: Bacon ‘N Business Seminar-Date: Thursday, May 3, 2018Time: 7:30 amPlace: Brightview Rolling HillsCost: $25 pre-registered & pre-paid


Event: Network the ‘VilleDate: Monday, May 14, 2018Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pmPlace: VIM Chiropractic

Co-host Five Star Federal Credit Union720 Maiden Choice Lane

Cost: $10 pre-registered & pre-paid$15 non-members

Event: Chamber Open House/Networking Event

Date: Thursday, May 24, 2018Time: 5:00 -7:00 pmPlace: 924 Frederick RoadCost: FREE

JUNEEvent: Mega Networking Breakfast

& Trade ShowDate: Tuesday, June 19, 2018Time: 8:00 - 9:30 amPlace: Double Tree HiltonCost: $25 pre-registered & pre-paid


JUNE through AUGUSTEvent: Frederick Road FridaysDate: Every Friday, June 1 - Aug. 25Time: 6:30 - 8:30 pmPlace: The Shops on MellorCost: FREE

SEPTEMBEREvent: 45th Annual Catonsville

Arts & Crafts FestivalDate: Sunday, September 9, 2018Time: 10:00 am - 5:00 pmPlace: Frederick RoadCost: FREE

Event: Network the ‘VilleDate: Monday, September 10, 2018Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pmPlace: TBACost: $10 pre-registered & pre-paid

$15 non-members

OCTOBEREvent: Bacon ‘N Business Seminar-Date: Thursday, October 4, 2018Time: 7:30 amPlace: Brightview Rolling HillsCost: $25 pre-registered & pre-paid


Event: Network the ‘VilleDate: Monday, Oct. 8, 2018Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pmPlace: TBACost: $10 pre-registered & pre-paid

$15 non-members

Event: Chamber Open House/Networking Event

Date: Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018Time: 5:00 - 7:00pmPlace: 924 Frederick RoadCost: FREE

NOVEMBEREvent: Network the ‘VilleDate: Monday, Nov. 12, 2018Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pmPlace: TBACost: $10 pre-registered & pre-paid

$15 non-members

DECEMBEREvent: Holiday PartyDate: TBA

2018 Chamber Events Calendar

This article is continued from the December 2017 issue of The View.

By Jeff Charles

Small Business Trends

Whether you’re thinking of startinga small business, or in the first fewyears of operation, here are commonproblems we’ve all faced at some pointin time.

7. Staying PassionateIn the daily grind of living, it is cru-

cial more than ever to be obsessedwith what you’re doing. Otherwise,the quality of your product/servicessuffers… thereby giving your cus-tomers a shoddy experience… whichinspires them to take their businesselsewhere. That is why obsession is acritical component; when you’re ob-sessed, working 14-hour days isn’t asbig a hassle. Without obsession,you’re more likely to let your smallbusiness fold instead of fighting for it.Without obsession, work becomesanother mindless grindstone to putyour nose to. If you’re still thinkingabout starting a business, make sureyou are selling a product or servicethat you are passionate about.

8. Not Diversifying Client BasesI want you to take a good, long

look at your client list. If you have anyclients who are responsible for morethan half of your business income, it’stime to a) generate more clients or b)work better deals for your otherclients. When your income has youriding one “whale”, that one whalecould dash off to do business withsomeone else. Leaving you in theocean, possibly drowning, while yourother clients—or “small fish”—andtheir small incomes. Don’t let yourbusiness rely on one client – it’s arecipe for disaster.

9. Growth vs. QualityIn time, a business may boom be-

yond growth expectations. Smallbusiness owners who haven’tplanned for this increase in cus-tomers and product/service produc-tion are liable to fall by the wayside.

As demands for your business in-crease, without the proper systems inplace, you’re more likely to come upshort and fall short of those de-mands. This is why it is crucial foryou to scale up your business – with-out sacrificing the qualities thatmade you such a hit in the first place.

10. Hiring New EmployeesAround the nation, many small

businesses face employee-hiringtroubles. The cost (equipment, bene-fits, taxes, bonuses, etc.) of hiringnew employees, unfortunately, keepsrising. All those hurdles come intoplay before outlining the position’ssalary.Without employees, a small busi-

ness cannot run successfully (withthe rare exception of home-run busi-nesses). In the event that you can, lifewould be a lot easier if you had a fewemployees under the belt. It’s alwayswise to judge the profit against thecost.

ConclusionAs a small business owner, realiz-

ing this one insight is essential formaintaining a calm head: your com-petitors face the same problems asyou do. All of us, regardless of the in-dustry we’re in, are essentially in thesame boat. How you respond to thesechallenges will change the “game” –as you become more successful,thereby leaving your rivals by thewayside. It’s important to rememberthat these challenges are just that –challenges and people do overcomethem.


The Chamber Business Trends

One resolution I have made, and try always to keep, isthis: To rise above the little things.

- John Burroughs

Follow us on:

Quote for the New Year

TOP 10 CHALLENGES SMALL BUSINESSOWNERS ARE FACING TODAY

Karen GatzkeColdwell Banker Residential Brokerage

SELLINGYOURHOME1. Let’s start with the real estate

agent. Don’t choose one because heor she is a friend or neighbor. Get references and check out the person’strack record. This is one of the biggestfinancial decisions of your life so hire

the right person. The agent will handle pricing, market-ing, negotiating, inspections and appraisals. Interviewagents about these topics and their success in your community.

2.Make sure your agent uses social media--like apresence on Facebook, Instagram, and has a current website to sufficiently market your home. Today’s buyers willdo Internet research to determine if they even want tostep foot into a home, so make sure yours has a strongonline presence.

3.Talk to your real estate agent about using video tomarket your home. According to the National Associa-tion of Realtors, (NAR), real estate listings with a videoreceive 403% more inquiries than those without.

4. According to local estate sales people, the marketfor formal dining room sets, glassware, china, etc., is really lacking and will continue in 2018. That means thatyounger generations do not want your hand-me-downswhen you downsize. Who will take these family itemsyou had planned to sell or give to your children? Here’san idea: I recently cleaned out the cellar of my 1923Catonsville bungalow, and offered items from my grand-mother on Facebook. To my delight, numerous friendswanted the embroidered linens and serving dishes. Or, if you’re more practical, contact me for a list of organiza-tions that will pick up items for FREE, even your brokenappliances.

5. Insist that your agent hire a professional to takephotos of your home. Yes, cell phones have come a longway in camera technology but they are not good enoughto use in your listing or other marketing. Photos are thefirst impression so make sure your agent starts the sell-ing process right. Also, if you won’t be ready to list untilthe summer, for example, ask your agent to take exteriorphotos in the spring when flowers are blooming andlawns are green. And, get some photos at dusk whenyour landscaping lights, pool area, or inviting patio canbe highlighted.NEXT MONTH: Secret Tips for Buyers in 2018

Karen Gatzke is a real estate agent with ColdwellBanker and a long-time Catonsville resident. She can bereached at 410-218-0578; [email protected]

SECRET TIPS FOR SUCCESSFULREAL ESTATE IN 2018

January 2018 - Catonsvillecontact information and committees. A Newsletter from the VIEW I N S I D E...

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Transcript of January 2018 - Catonsvillecontact information and committees. A Newsletter from the VIEW I N S I D E...