County Executive Ulman to Address the Business Community Next Week

 

You don't want to miss this event, which will include an hour of networking with other Howard County business leaders, a tasty lunch from the team at Turf Valley and an opportunity to hear directly from the County Executive on issues of importance to the business community.

 

But, if you just cannot be there in person, you can still get the highlights. Follow the Chamber on Twitter for live updates on February 2. Then go to our website for a recap and to link to video following the event, and like us on Facebook to see photos.

 

 

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 Toby Orenstein Chosen as Arts Advocate of the Year

Toby Orenstein, founder and artistic director of the nonprofit Columbia Center for Theatrical Arts (CCTA), has been named the 2012 Sue Hess Maryland Arts Advocate of the Year by Maryland Citizens for the Arts.

The award recognizes an individual whose advocacy efforts have significantly increased support for and public recognition of the arts in Maryland. Maryland Citizens for the Arts said in a statement that Ms. Orenstein has served the Maryland arts community for more than 50 years "with an emphasis on using theatre to better the lives of children."

"Toby's work with CCTA is all volunteer, and her passion and commitment to the arts in Maryland truly shine through this labor of love," said Christopher West, an MCA Trustee, in a statement.

CCTA has built on Ms. Orenstein's early inspiration to motivate and stimulate disaffected and underprivileged youth to learn through the arts. Today, the Center offers a variety of performance arts programs for youth, professional productions that are related to school curriculum, and outreach programs to make the arts available to the neediest students in the region.

CCTA will celebrate its 40th Anniversary this year, and is planning a gala event on April 30.

"Advocating for the arts has been my passion throughout my life," Ms. Orenstein said. "I am honored by this award."

Ms. Orenstein is also the owner of Toby's Dinner Theatres in Columbia and Baltimore. Last year, she received the Chamber's Exemplar Award in recognition of her career achievement and her extraordinary service and commitment to the business community.

Ms. Orenstein will be honored at Maryland Arts Day in Annapolis on February 8. The presentation will be in the Miller Senate Building's President's Conference Center at 12:45 p.m. 

Click Here for more about Maryland Arts Day 2012.

Click Here for more about CCTA.

Our Members Are Putting More Power 
in Chamber Power Every Day

Have you gone for the "buy one get one free" entree at Alexandra's Restaurant at Turf Valley, or gotten your free appetizer at El Nayar? Have you saved money with First Call Office Products or Manpower staffing services? Have you taken 20 percent off your bill at ScrubMax?

Get these deals now and look for more every day at Chamber Power. Chamber members can post a deal at no cost, and everyone can download deals, save money and support local businesses. 

Restaurant Weeks Continue to Offer Global Flavors Here in Howard County

From now through January 30, enjoy specialty menus with international flavors. Meals are  offered for fixed prices ranging from $10.12 to $40.12. With 20 eateries to choose from, it's a great time to sample what local restaurants have to offer.

 Click Here for more information.

Evening in the Stacks Supports Howard County Library System

 The libary is planning a spectacular "Masquerade" at the new Charles E. Miller Branch and Historical Center on February 25 from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.

There will be fine food,
swinging music from the
Natty Beaux, cocktails poured by celebrity bartenders and a silent auction. Author Lisa See will be speaking about her work with moderator Ron Charles of The Washington Post. 

Tickets are $100 until January 31, and $125 after.

Members of the Young Professionals Network of Howard County get $100 tickets anytime with the password "Stacks-YPN"

 Click Here for more information.

Columbia Association Offers Aquatics Master Plan for Review

The CA Aquatics Master Plan is ready for public review. A public meeting/work session will be held on Tuesday, January 31 at 7 p.m. at Claret Hall in the River Hill Village Center. This meeting will include a presentation followed by time for residents to speak and a Board discussion. Registration is appreciated.

 Click Here for more information.

Chamber Members Can Save on Tickets to Turf Valley's
Luxury Home Show