Severna Park Chamber Update

Happy New Year, Greater Severna Park!   

As you begin the New Year, I’ll bet you’re thinking about those New Year’s resolutions you’ve made—or the things you should do this year. It’s a new year and everyone thinks of a “new beginning” to go along with it. Maybe a new beginning for you means a major business change. 

If you’ve been thinking about owning your own business, but still have that fear that it might not succeed, you can learn more about it on Wednesday (Jan. 18) when the hosts a “Franchises – A Business Option” at and Pasta in Park Plaza where Ed Cremmins of Eagle Franchise Consulting will be our presenter. Attendees can discover how to find the right franchise (all industries and sizes), investment requirements, potential earnings and more. 

The program is open to all chamber members and the public. There is no fee to attend and coffee will be served. This program is one of our Business Development initiatives that we present monthly to help provide business information for our members and our community. If you have questions, please call me at 410-647-3900.

Later in the month we’ll be holding our Annual Installation Dinner at

This Jan. 26 event will feature Sen. Ed Reilly (R-Crofton) as guest speaker. It’s an evening of awards and recognitions, a presentation on our new Shop Local campaign, and the distribution of our anticipated Business and Community Guide. The cost for the evening is $45 for members and $50 for non-members. A delicious dinner, door prizes for every table, and a small silent auction are part of the events. 

Live music will greet guests when they arrive at 5 p.m. for social hour. Seating is at 6 p.m. The oath of office will be administered to our new officers and directors by Delegate Cathy Vitale (R-Severna Park).

Thinking about picking up some new dance moves in 2012?  Dancing is good exercise and lots of fun! The Feb. 8 Successful Women in Business event will be a buffet lunch at the in Severna Park starting at noon. The $15 fee (members and $20 non-members) provides lunch, networking, and a dance demonstration of the salsa and cha-cha, among others. You might even get the chance to learn a few steps if you wish! Call me if you’d like to attend!

With the New Year comes the 2012 legislative session in Annapolis. The chamber is teaming with other members of the Anne Arundel Council of Chambers to bring you an evening with your elected officials. 

The mixer will be held on Feb. 13 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the House Office Building, Room 170, in Annapolis. It’s a chance to meet informally with your delegates and senators to discuss issues that are important to you. 

There is the option of a visit to the General Assembly Session at 8 p.m. The cost is $20 for members (preregistration only, no walk-ins) or their guests. It is $40 for non-members. You can call the Greater Severna Park Chamber of Commerce at 410-647-3900 if you’d like to attend as a guest of the chamber.