COUNTY GOVERNMENT JOINS U.S. POSTAL SERVICE SUPPORTING HARVEST FOR THE HUNGRY CAMPAIGN
County Executive David R. Craig and Harford County Government are partnering with the U. S. Postal Service to support the Harvest for the Hungry campaign. The local campaign is coordinated through the Harford Community Action Agency. "This is a great opportunity for county employees, their families and friends to help support members of our community by contributing to the Harvest for the Hungry food drive," stated County Executive David R. Craig. "Helping others who need a helping hand is what we are doing when we support outstanding programs such as the Harford Community Action Agency and the Harvest for the Hungry," Craig remarked.
February 2010
COUNTY EXECUTIVE CRAIG SALUTES SCOUTS ON THEIR 100TH ANNIVERSARY
Harford County Executive David R. Craig has offered special congratulations to the Boy Scouts of America in recognition of their 100th anniversary. The Boy Scouts of America were incorporated in Washington D. C. on February 8, 1910 by William D. Boyce. "The Boy Scouts of America is one of the most important and unique organizations supporting the youth of America," remarked County Executive Craig. "Hundreds of thousands of young boys grew into outstanding young men as the result of scouting. I am especially proud that the Harford District of the Baltimore Area Council has a very strong scouting tradition and program available for our county’s youth," Craig stated.
October 2009
COUNTY EXECUTIVE CRAIG ISSUES PROCLAMATION DECLARING BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
Harford County Executive David R. Craig has issued a proclamation declaring October as "Breast Cancer Awareness Month" in Harford County. The county executive was joined by Delegate Donna Stifler, District 35-A, as well as county employees and supporters of the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. "During the month of October, many organizations and community groups will offer public education and special events in an effort to heighten the awareness and raise funds to help find a cure for breast cancer," County Executive Craig stated. "Our proclamation is symbolic of the support by county employees, their families and friends for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure and efforts to find a cure for breast cancer," remarked the county executive.
September 2009
COUNTY EXECUTIVE CRAIG PROCLAIMS SEPTEMBER 26, 2009 SUPERHEROES DAY IN BEL AIR
Harford County Executive David R. Craig has proclaimed Saturday, September 26, 2009 as "Superheroes Day" in Bel Air. The County Executive made the announcement and presented a formal proclamation at the third annual Harford County Tourism Industry Networking Breakfast, Monday, September 21, 2009. "Superheroes Day" is our way of recognizing the problem of childhood cancer and the unselfish and countless acts of heroism that people demonstrate each day in supporting children who suffer from this terrible disease," stated County Executive Craig. "We simply want everyone to be aware that cancer knows no boundaries when it comes to age, sex or race of those it afflicts," the county executive remarked.
September 2009
COUNTY EXECUTIVE CRAIG PARTICIPATES IN "HELP BAG HUNGER"
Harford County Executive David R. Craig was among several local and state elected officials that participated in the ShopRite "Help Bag Hunger" event at Klein’s ShopRite in the Festival in Bel Air on September 23. The county executive helped bag groceries to raise money and awareness of the issue of hunger in Harford County. Throughout the day, various elected officials, including County Executive Craig, helped bag groceries to assist cashiers who were collecting donations for the ShopRite Partners In Caring Fund. Last year, locally ShopRite donated $70,000 to the Maryland Food Bank. "It was an honor and pleasure for me to help support such a worthy cause as the "Help Bag Hunger" event with Klein’s ShopRite," stated County Executive David R. Craig. "Unfortunately there are too many families in Harford County that don’t have enough food. Events such as this help to raise the level of awareness, as well as donations to help fight hunger in Harford County," Craig remarked.
September 2009
COUNTY EXECUTIVE CRAIG PROCLAIMS WELLNESS WEEK IN HARFORD COUNTY
Harford County Executive David R. Craig has proclaimed September 26 – October 3, 2009 as Wellness Week in Harford County. The County Executive made the announcement prior to the start of a 5K walk/run in Havre de Grace on Saturday. "This week Harford County Government joins with a coalition of more than 20 businesses and non-profit organizations and agencies in support of a healthier Harford County," County Executive Craig stated. "It is our goal to help promote healthier lifestyles, improving nutrition and physical activity habits," remarked the County Executive.
August 2009
COUNTY EXECUTIVE DAVID R. CRAIG TO SERVE ON EXECUTIVE BOARD OF THE BOY SCOUTS
Harford County Executive David R. Craig has been appointed to the executive board of the Baltimore Area Council, Boy Scouts of America. The 65 member executive board of the Baltimore Area Council, Boy Scouts of America works to develop resources and programs for over 35,000 Scouts in Central Maryland. Commenting on his appointment to the executive board of the Baltimore Area Council, Boy Scouts of America, County Executive Craig stated, "I am honored to serve on the executive board of such a distinguished organization. The Boy Scouts of America have a strong, rich heritage of service to our youth and I am pleased to offer my talents to help further the tenets of scouting," Craig stated.
July 2009
EDGEWOOD’S REVIVAL
Harford County Executive David Craig celebrated Edgewood’s renaissance at the Washington Court Groundbreaking ceremony on Cedar Drive in Edgewood. "The revitalization of Washington Court will help ensure quality living in Edgewood and will rejuvenate not only the surrounding neighborhood, but enrich the lives of those living there," stated County Executive David Craig. "In 2006 I made a promise to improve this area and today we see the fruits of our labor become a reality and the promise fulfilled," Craig stated.
February 2009
COUNTY EXECUTIVE CRAIG HONORED BY BOY SCOUTS
Harford County Executive David R. Craig has been honored by the Baltimore Area Council, Boy Scouts of America with the Silver Beaver Award during a National Court of Honor at Martin's West in Baltimore. Craig was one of 16 selected to receive this prestigious award. Established in 1931, those who receive the Silver Beaver Award are recognized for their distinguished service to youth and the wide range of their professional and civic responsibilities which have fulfilled Scouting's aim of providing responsible, mature adults as good models for youth. Commenting on receiving the award, County Executive Craig stated, "I am deeply honored and humbled by this prestigious award. Throughout my life I have been inspired by and associated with leaders in our community whose roots were in scouting".
November 2008
HARFORD COUNTY BREAKS GROUND FOR FALLSTON ACTIVITY CENTER
Harford County Executive David R. Craig, joined by Joseph Pfaff, Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation and Mary Chance, Director of the Department of Community Service, today officially broke ground for the new Fallston Activity Center. The facility is the fourth partnership between the Department of Community Services, Office on Aging, and the Department of Parks and Recreation. The other ventures are the Woodshop at the Equestrian Center, the Havre de Grace Community Activity Center and the McFaul Activity Center. "Today is a great day for the people of Fallston and Harford County," remarked County Executive Craig. "The Fallston Activity Center will enhance the quality of living for the residents of the Fallston area and will serve both our senior population and youth well for years to come," Craig stated.
November 2008
HARFORD COUNTY BREAKS GROUND FOR FALLSTON ACTIVITY CENTER
Harford County Executive David R. Craig today announced plans for the re-establishment of a Youth Commission. A bill to repeal and reenact with amendments Chapter 9 of the Harford County Code to establish a Youth Commission was introduced by County Council President Billy Boniface on October 21, 2008. The proposed Harford County Youth Commission will be comprised of 21 members appointed by the County Executive and confirmed by the County Council. Members of the Commission shall include the Sheriff of Harford County or his designee; a representative from the Board of Education; a representative from the Harford County Department of Community Services, Office of Drug Control Policy; a representative from the Harford County Local Management Board; twelve members who represent organizations that provide youth services or programs oriented to Harford County's youth; six representatives who are county residents under 18 years of age, one from each of the County Council districts and one citizen representative.
Commenting on the reestablishment of the Harford County Youth Commission, County Executive Craig stated, "The reestablishment of our Youth Commission is vital to our success in providing resources and smart choices for today's youth. Our youth is our most valuable resource, we must ensure that they are presented with opportunities to excel and grow." Craig remarked.
November 2008SCHOOL BEAUTIFICATION GRANTS AWARDED TO TWO ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
Harford County Executive David R. Craig has announced two School Beautification Grant Program awards. Riverside Elementary School in Joppatowne and Homestead - Wakefield Elementary School in Bel Air, each received an award from the grant program administered by the Department of Community Services. Riverside Elementary PTA received a $10,000 grant towards the upgrade and refurbishment of the primary playground.
Homestead -Wakefield Elementary School PTA received two grants totally $9,990. One award is $5,000 towards improvements for the lobby of the school, including painting, painting of a mural and furniture assembly to replace existing furniture. The second grant totally $4,990, is for the school courtyard landscaping project. "The School Beautification Grant Program is an excellent example of an effective government initiative that brings schools, the parent community and businesses together," stated County Executive Craig. "We commend the PTA of Riverside and Homestead -Wakefield Elementary Schools for their hard work and commitment to our children," Craig remarked.
October 2008HARFORD COUNTY KICKS OFF CAPITAL CAMPAIGN FOR YMCA IN ABINGDON
A $150,000 grant from Harford County Government today helps the Y of Central Maryland officially launch their $3.5 million capital campaign to build an aquatics center at the Walter and Betty Ward Family Center Y in Abingdon. The $150,000 grant, part of a total commitment of $300,000 from Harford County, along with a $500,000 matching grant from an anonymous donor, helps move the fund drive towards the $3.5 million goal. The aquatics center campaign is chaired by Melinda Craig, wife of the County Executive David R. Craig, and David Worrell, a local businessman. County Executive Craig presented a symbolic check to John K. Hoey, Y of Central Maryland, President and CEO during the brief ceremony at the Walter and Betty Ward Family Center Y in Abingdon. The Y in Abingdon officially opened in 2007 as a state-of-the-art, family health and wellness facility, creating an anchor for Y services delivered to the citizens of Harford County since 1986. The center was named for Walter and Betty Ward in honor of their generous lead gift which made the center possible. "This is a proud day for Harford County and we are pleased to partner with an outstanding nonprofit organization such as the Y of Central Maryland to help bring an affordable aquatics program to southern Harford County." remarked County Executive Craig. The 30,000 square foot Y in Abingdon, provides family-oriented, affordable, quality programs to thousands of Harford County families. Among the amenities of the facility are a large gymnasium, fitness center, child watch services, multi-purpose area, community meeting room, a climbing wall and locker rooms.
September 2008
HARFORD COUNTY RECEIVES AWARD FOR BRIDGE PROJECT
Harford County Department of Public Works has been recognized by the County Engineers Association of Maryland, (CEAM) for the County Project of the Year Award for projects under $500,000. The project selected for this prestigious award was the recently completed Jerusalem Mill Road Pedestrian Bridge. Clearly there was a need to construct a new bridge for pedestrians to safely cross the stream. "We are extremely honored by the recognition bestowed upon this project by the County Engineers Association of Maryland," County Executive David R. Craig stated. "This project is the capstone for this unique and historical property. We encourage everyone to take advantage of the beauty of this area of Gunpowder State Park and visit the historic Jerusalem Mill property," County Executive Craig remarked.
June 2008
COUNTY EXECUTIVE CRAIG HONORED BY EDGEWOOD COMMUNITY COUNCIL
Harford County Executive David R. Craig was honored by the Edgewood Community Council at the first annual ECC Awards Banquet on Saturday, June 28, 2008. Also honored by the Council for outstanding service to the community were Harford County Sheriff L. Jesse Bane, and Councilman Dion Guthrie from District A representing Joppa, Joppatowne and Edgewood.
The awards program was established by Andre Alston and Marlon Gittens on behalf of the Edgewood Community Council. Mr. Alston, who serves a co-chair of the Safe and Secure Communities sub-committee of the council, recognized the outstanding leadership of Jansen Robinson, chair of the ECC. "I am deeply honored and appreciative of the recognition bestowed upon me by the Edgewood Community Council," County Executive Craig stated. "My administration is committed to supporting the greater Edgewood community and will continue our work to improve the quality of life for the citizens and businesses of the community," Craig remarked.
May 2008ANNUAL KIDS C.A.N. CELEBRATION A SUCCESS
Over 300 Harford County mentors and mentees attended the Kids C.A.N. (Caring Adult Network of mentors) celebration Wednesday, May 14, at The Putt-Putt Fun Center in Abingdon. Supported by many businesses and community organizations, mentors and program coordinators were honored for their commitment and dedication to Harford County's youth. Mentors and mentees had a blast while playing putt-putt, arcade games and lazar tag. Kids C.A.N. assists county mentoring programs by recruiting volunteer mentors, offering them training and matching them with a program that best suits their interests, time and special talents. Kids C.A.N. coordinates opportunities for mentors to network, learn new skills, celebrate with their mentees and be recognized for their valuable service to the community.
October 2007
TWO TAX CREDIT BILLS SIGNED INTO LAW
Harford County Executive David R. Craig, joined by Billy Boniface, President of the Harford County Council, today signed into law two bills which will increase tax credits available to farmers. The bills were approved by the Harford County Council by unanimous vote earlier this week.
The bills, Harford County Bills No. 07-42 and 07-43 increase the local tax credit for properties in State Agricultural Districts or subject to a State Agricultural Preservation Easement and to increase the local tax credit for properties in the County Agricultural District or subject to Agricultural Preservation Easement to the County. The effective date of the legislation is the tax year beginning July 1, 2008.
Commenting on the recently enacted legislation, County Executive David R. Craig stated, "Our agricultural community is an integral part of Harford County and we cherish their rich heritage. This legislation is another example of the efforts of the Harford County Council and my Administration working together for the benefit of our farmers."
This legislation marks the third time in the past year the Craig Administration has worked to cut taxes in an effort to lessen the property tax burden on the citizens of Harford County.
"The charge to the Commission is quite simple, stated County Executive Craig. Business as usual must end. We must all work together to find ways to make Harford County government more cost effective and efficient given the fiscal condition of the State."
May 2007COUNTY EXECUTIVE SIGNS BILL FOR HOMEOWNER PROPERTY TAX CREDIT
Harford County Executive David R. Craig signed into law Harford County Bill No. 07-06, "Homeowners Property Tax Credit". The legislation was passed by the Harford County Council without a dissenting vote.
"During my campaign, I made a promise to our senior citizens, a promise that I would look into providing tax relief for their homes. With the help of Harford County Council, I am pleased to sign into law homeowners' property tax credit legislation," stated County Executive Craig.
The law increases the maximum assessed value of a home to $400,000 and matches the state's threshold of a maximum combined income of $60,000, with a maximum net worth of $200,000 to qualify. Additionally, the legislation is a supplement to the state property tax credit program, allowing for a one-time application to the state. "Not only will this program help our seniors, it will also provide relief for families on a fixed income who may be struggling with the sudden loss of a spouse or have fallen victim to unexpected changes in their lives," remarked the County Executive.
