Our Mission
To foster and maintain a thriving business climate in which our
members and community can grow and prosper.
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Welcome our recent new members! |
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McIntire HVAC
313 E. Wilson Blvd., Ste. 3,
Hagerstown, MD 21740
240.527.5945
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Scott Powell State Farm Insurance
816 Virginia Ave.
Hagerstown, MD 21740
240.420.2886
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Susie Morgan Creative
10802 Gas House Pike
New Market, MD 21774
240.608.2310
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Resources
You can get a free energy procurement consultation from APPI Energy as a Chamber member and find out how you may be able to save money on your commercial and industrial energy bills!
APPI's unbiased consultants will:
- Verify the accuracy of your electricity and natural gas bills.
- Help you choose from many reliable, competitive energy suppliers.
- Negotiate the lowest price and best supplier contract terms and conditions for your business.
- Provide ongoing, trustworthy customer service.
- Monitor your accounts and the energy markets for future cost-reducing opportunities.
Find out more about energy consultations with APPI here.
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We're hosting a Small Business Leaders' Connect Group
Are you the owner or leader of a small business? Do you feel like you don't know where to turn for support and advice from others who are in the same boat as you? That's what we're going to change right now.
Created by some of your fellow Chamber members, the idea for this group is finally coming to life in a kick-off event taking place on March 31, 2021. While these group meetings will be over Zoom for now, we hope to get this group together in person once it is safe to do so. Stay tuned for more information on this new initiative coming soon, and put it in your calendar! Let us know your thoughts by replying to this email.
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Get ready for a good time with your fellow community members and see what these businesses have to offer! There will be live music and food available for purchase as well. |
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JDog Junk Removal and Hauling Hagerstown Grand Opening! |
Come out to celebrate the Grand Opening of JDog Junk Removal and Hauling Hagerstown! This Veteran-owned business is holding their Grand Opening event at the Williamsport American Legion along with other Veteran-owned businesses from the community.
Date: Saturday, March 20th
Time: 11 am - 5 pm
Cost: Free
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Where: American Legion Ave, Williamsport, MD 21795, United States
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Browse through news from some of our members, some may even be able to help you during this critical time. |
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David Neterer Honored as one of LPL Financial’s Top Financial Advisors
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David Neterer, an independent LPL Financial advisor with Sterling Financial Management in Hagerstown announced today his inclusion in LPL’s Patriot’s Club. LPL presents this elite award to less than 9% of the firm’s more than 17,000 financial advisors nationwide.*
“On behalf of LPL, I congratulate David Neterer on reaching this milestone in his professional career,” said Angela Xavier, LPL Executive Vice President, Independent Advisor Services. “Business owners, American investors and industries at large faced extraordinary challenges throughout 2020. In the advisor-mediated financial advice market, investors showed how much value they place on a trusting relationship with a financial advisor. We applaud Mr. Neterer for his commitment to clients and his resiliency as a business owner. It is an honor to support Mr. Neterer and wish him and his entire team success as they continue to add value for clients and to their business in the years ahead.”
David Neterer, founder and president of Sterling Financial Management, Inc., is a private wealth manager for businesses and individuals in the tri-state area. He focuses on the development, implementation and monitoring of financial strategies tailored to his diverse clients. David earned a bachelor’s degree with a double major in economics and management from Huntington University in Indiana. He has over 27 years of experience in the financial services industry and has previously worked for two other firms as a senior financial consultant.
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Community Foundation Seeking Applications for Available Scholarships
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The Community Foundation of Washington County MD has scholarships available for local students preparing for a post-secondary education. During this annual wave of opening over 50 individual funds up for the application process, the Foundation encourages all public, private, homeschool and nontraditional students who live in Washington County, Maryland, to apply for these scholarships. Applicants can apply for more than one scholarship, but should note that each has different eligibility criteria, and they must review and meet all stated criteria for consideration. Requirements may include attendance at a certain high school in the county, plans to major in a specific course of study or participation in a designated extracurricular activity. There is no charge to apply for a scholarship listed on the Community Foundation’s website cfwcmd.org. All scholarship applications are due between March and April 2021.
“Scholarship season is always a particularly exciting time; a chance to interact with our community’s students who’ve certainly had a nontraditional past twelve months. Because of the challenges that virtual learning and staggered schedules may pose, applicants are urged to pay attention to deadlines and begin working on gathering the required materials sooner rather than later,” says Sarah Burge, Director of Grants and Donor Relations.
To locate these online applications, visit the Community Foundation’s website cfwcmd.org and click on the “Scholarships” tab or homepage graphic to see specifics as well as links to the applications. Ineligible or incomplete applications will be disqualified.
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Washington County Gives 2021 Date Announced and Registration Open
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The Community Foundation of Washington County MD, Inc. announces plans to host the ninth annual Washington County Gives on Tuesday, May 11th, from midnight to midnight. This 24-hour online fundraiser provides participating local nonprofits the opportunity to raise unrestricted dollars as well as receive pro-rated matching funds and prize money.
Registration is currently open at washingtoncountygives.org for 501(c)(3) organizations with both volunteer staff as well as volunteer staff. Registration is $300 for organizations with paid staff and only $65 for those with volunteer staff. Early-bird registration has already garnered over 50 Washington County nonprofits, ensuring the competition is already on!
“Since the Foundation debuted Washington County Gives, we’ve helped our local nonprofits raise over $4 million that goes directly back into our community. A fundraising vehicle this important is not to be missed for Washington County nonprofits both new and old,” says Director of Marketing and Communications Tim Luipersbeck.
For Community Foundation fund holders, we’re also presenting the option to give in advance, as a disbursement from your fund, directly to a participating nonprofit.
For any questions, please contact Director of Marketing and Communications please email timl@cfwcmd.org.
For more information about Washington County Gives or to learn more about this day of giving, please visit washingtoncountygives.org.
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United Way Offers Free Tax Filing
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United Way of Washington County announced the launch of this tax season’s MyFreeTaxes.com site. For the 12th year, United Way is providing online tax filing software, accessible through MyFreeTaxes.com, to help taxpayers easily and accurately file their taxes from their computer or smartphone. MyFreeTaxes® is a free and easy way to file federal and state tax returns for free.
“Taxes can be a source of confusion and stress for many Americans,” said Heather Guessford, President and CEO of the United Way of Washington County. “Many of us are intimidated by the complexities of taxes and afraid to make a mistake that will cost money. With MyFreeTaxes, you can take advantage of all the tax credits and deductions you qualify for. That’s especially important now, as so many are struggling in the wake of the pandemic.”
Key features of the online tool include:
· Screens for credit and deduction eligibility such as the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit to ensure filers receive their maximum tax refund, and lets filers check for any missed stimulus payments
· Shows filers how and why their refund amount is changing in real time.
· Allows individuals to use their mobile phone, tablet or computer to file taxes
· Help from a real person trained by the IRS via the MyFreeTaxes’ Helpline. The Helpline is open from 10 am-10 pm EST daily to clarify things like filing status.
· Access to additional financial products and resources, including free access to a student debt management tool that will help employees easily lower payments or find loan forgiveness.
MyFreeTaxes is FREE for all returns and includes schedule C options. A list of the tax forms included in this free offering is available by visiting MyFreeTaxes.com. There are no income limits, no age restrictions, and no geographical limitations to take advantage of this free service.
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ONTRACK WASHINGTON COUNTY RECEIVES SUPPORT FROM STRIVETOGETHER FOR AN EQUITABLE RECOVERY |
Systemic racial inequities exposed by COVID-19 heighten the need for systems transformation
StriveTogether, a national network working to bring communities together around data to make decisions and improve results for kids, today announced OnTrack Washington County as an awardee for the Challenge Fund. OnTrack joins fifty other communities across 26 states to deliver more equitable outcomes for children and families. These communities are part of the Cradle to Career Network, a national movement led by StriveTogether to ensure every child has every opportunity to succeed.
OnTrack Washington County will be utilizing the Challenge Funds to support the operations of the organization and ensure the long-term success of this collective impact cradle to career initiative. Additionally, these funds will provide training, planning and implementation support for the Collaborative Action Networks – each focused on a specific result across Early Childhood, School Age Youth, and Workforce and Career Readiness. “OnTrack is incredibly grateful for the support of StriveTogether and is honored to be awarded Challenge Funds to move our work forward in Washington County.”
“When the pandemic hit in early 2020, we made the strategic decision to shift cost savings from cancelled events and travel to expand grants we award to our network members,” said Jennifer Blatz, president and CEO, StriveTogether. “With the support of our board of directors, we pivoted and accelerated payment of previously awarded multi-year grants and extended new grants focused on COVID-19 recovery and resilience. The work underway in these communities is vital to the future of our children. We’re supporting the efforts of communities to transform systems so that they produce more equitable outcomes.”
Altogether, StriveTogether has provided $20 million in grants since the onset of the pandemic in 2020 and will award another $12 million by the end of 2021. Multi-year commitments from several long-time investors in StriveTogether helped make this possible.
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Innovative Incorporated Achieves Datto Blue Diamond Partner Status |
Innovative Incorporated today announced it has achieved exclusive Blue Diamond partner status with Datto, the leading global provider of cloud-based software and technology solutions purpose-built for delivery by managed service providers (MSPs). Datto Blue Diamond status represents the top 2 percent of the company’s partners worldwide.
Innovative Incorporated is a managed service provider that delivers information technology, phone, and copier solutions, support, and service to businesses in the Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania tri-state region. Innovative became a Datto partner in 2014 and has embraced Datto as its solution of choice for most backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity needs.
Innovative Incorporated has exceeded high performance standards to qualify for Blue Diamond status within Datto’s Global Partner Program, the highest classification provided by Datto. Blue Diamond status includes many exclusive programs and benefits designed to support further enablement and business growth.
“We are delighted to receive this recognition from Datto,” said Jason Rappaport, president, and CEO of Innovative Incorporated. “Datto allows us to provide our clients with some of the best backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity solutions in the market. It’s an honor to be acknowledged for putting these products and tools to use and demonstrating success.”
“We are thrilled to recognize Innovative Incorporated as a Blue Diamond Partner,” said Rob Rae, senior vice president of business development, Datto. “We are committed to providing Innovative Incorporated and all of our partners with the necessary capabilities to develop deep relationships with their customers and keep growing their brands and businesses. We look forward to more success from Innovative Incorporated in 2021, as we continue to roll out new partner services.”
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Washington County Business & Industry Directory - Register Your Business Today! |
Businesses in Washington County are encouraged to submit an application to be listed in the B&I Directory. Please click the button below to complete the application.
For additional questions about the Business & Industry Directory, please email the Department of Business Development at pr@washco-md.net.
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Horizon Goodwill Industries Hires a new Marketing and Public Relations Manager |
I am thrilled to be working at Horizon Goodwill Industries. My desire to do something that really matters has been met with this new opportunity. I look forward to diving into all that Goodwill offers and helping to let the public know as well!
As far as my life before Goodwill, I have been in marketing for over 25 years and have worked with a number of different types of businesses. Everything from defense contractors, IT companies, legal services, construction and design, and non-profits. The one thing that all of them have in common is the need for brand awareness. If no one knows who you are or what you do, they won’t know to visit you or your website when they need something.
On a personal note, my family and I live in West Virginia where my kids both work at local food establishments, and my wife works at a real estate company. I like working in the yard and doing my best with the lawn work. I wouldn’t be much of a marketing person if I didn’t put in a plug for the organization, so here it goes:
Horizon Goodwill Industries, whose mission is "Removing Barriers, Creating Opportunities," is a non-profit social enterprise dedicated to ensuring that all people have access to sustaining and meaningful employment. Ninety cents of every dollar earned by Horizon Goodwill is invested in putting people to work and strengthening communities across a 17-county region throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. To learn more about Horizon Goodwill Industries, visit the website www.horizongoodwill.org or call us at 301-733-7330.
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USMH to Host Virtual Open House Via Facebook Live |
The University System of Maryland at Hagerstown (USMH) will host a virtual open house via Facebook Live on Tuesday, March 16th, from 5 to 7 pm.
Representatives of the offerings at the Hagerstown center will be available to discuss their programs and answer questions during the session.
USMH administrators will discuss the plans for a safe return to campus in the fall.
Both bachelor’s and master’s degrees are offered at USMH from five Maryland universities: Frostburg State University (FSU), Salisbury University (SU), Towson University (TU), University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) and University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC).
UMGC will not be represented during this open house as the university will not be offering face-to-face classes at USMH in the fall of 2021.
Bachelor’s degree programs that will be represented during the open house include: business administration, hospitality and tourism management, early childhood/elementary education, community health, nursing, liberal studies, psychology and social work.
Representatives from the following graduate degree programs will also participate in the event: education (master of arts in teaching and master of education), nursing, physician assistant and social work.
To join the event, search Facebook for University System of Maryland at Hagerstown. There will be an option to sign up in advance, but registration it is not mandatory to join the event on March 16th. Participants are encouraged to post questions that they would like answered during the open house on the USMH Facebook page prior to the event. For more information, visit hagerstown.usmd.edu.
USMH is a regional higher education center of the University System of Maryland. Founded in 2005, it is located in downtown Hagerstown and has grown from one building housing 12 programs to a multi-facility campus throughout the downtown offering 23 programs of study.
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San Mar Family and Community Services Presents
The Great Bicycle Tour (TGBT)
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San Mar is pleased to announce that the 34th ride of the entire C&O Canal returns July 10-13, 2021 following last year’s modified event due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 184.5-mile bicycle tour begins in Cumberland, MD and follows the C&O Canal towpath for four days, ending at mile marker 0 in Washington, DC. This signature annual event is San Mar’s largest fundraising event to support children and families in the community.
The Great Bicycle Tour, also known as TGBT, is family friendly and fully supported with all meals, lodging, and transportation included. Options for an abbreviated 2-day or 1-day ride are also available. Registration is limited to 150. Interested participants can register to ride for San Mar at https://sanmartgbt.org/
The outdoor nature of this event makes it one of the most enjoyable activities to do in a safe and socially-distanced manner. As planning continues, San Mar will monitor federal, state, and local guidelines and recommendations from public health officials. We intend to comply with all recommended health and safety protocols in effect at the time of our event.
"During a time where there remain many challenges, this four-day adventure is just what the doctor ordered. All of us at San Mar are looking forward to a return to our largest annual fundraiser, while remaining committed to the safety of all our participants, staff and volunteers. Not only do children and families benefit from the proceeds, but those who participate in this adventure leave with a lifetime memory. We look forward to getting on the bike once again."—Keith Fanjoy
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Summer Arts Academy 2021 to be Hosted by Barbara Ingram School For The Arts Foundation |
EVENT: Summer Arts Academy 2021
HOST: Barbara Ingram School for the Arts Foundation
DATE: July 5 - July 29, 2021 (Monday thru Thursday only)
TIME: Full day and half day academies are available
VENUE: Barbara Ingram School for the Arts
7 South Potomac St. Hagerstown, MD 21740
EVENT INFORMATION: Registration is now open for the Barbara Ingram School for the Arts Foundation’s annual Summer Arts Academy.
Our mission is to provide a creative and supportive environment for young adults to grow as artists, writers, dancers, actors, musicians, and individuals. The academies offered represent the various disciplines at Barbara Ingram School for the Arts, giving younger students a taste of the BISFA experience. All area students are invited to participate in the following:
Full Day Academies (9 am to 4 pm)
● 2D Animation (new this year!)
● Becoming an Actor
● Cardboard Sculpting
● Dance
● Digital Photography
● Playwriting with a Punch
● Visual Arts
Half Day Academies (9 am to noon)
● Band
● Creative Writing
● Filmmaking 101 (new this year!)
● Guitar
● Piano
● Vocal
Four scholarships are available for students this year, as well as internship and sponsorship opportunities. Due to class size limitations, early registration is encouraged.
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GenNext is our young professionals group here at the Chamber. If you're interested in meeting a group of like-minded young professionals who want to network, volunteer, and grow professionally, you should join GenNext.
This group is open to anyone between the ages of 21-39. If interested, fill out an application form here and send it to brianna@hagerstown.org.
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We're looking for individuals who are interested in speaking at a GenNext event. Is there something you wish you had known as a young professional? Come share your wisdom with us!
Take a moment to fill out the form below to let us know what you'd like to share with our group.
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A Health Tip From Washington County Health Department:
Preparing for Daylight Savings Time
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Daylight Saving Time starts Sunday, March 14th at 2:00 a.m. and it will be time to spring forward one hour. Losing an hour can cause difficulties in making sure you get enough sleep. Adults need 7-8 hours of sleep a night. Take this 2-week challenge to adjust your sleep schedule for Daylight Saving Time without feeling sleep deprived.
1. Sunday 3/7 – Figure out what time you need to go to bed and wake up at in order to get 7-8 hours of sleep every day. Go to bed at that time tonight.
2. Monday 3/8 – Start going to bed and waking up at these times. It’s important to stay well rested before the transition.
3. Tuesday 3/9-Wednesday 3/10 – If you want to get a head start on adjusting your sleep schedule, start going to bed or waking up 15-20 minutes earlier. Otherwise, continue going to sleep and getting up at the times you picked.
4. Thursday 3/11 – Go to bed or wake up 15-30 minutes earlier than you have been. Consider starting to eat dinner a little earlier as well.
5. Friday 3/12 – If you’re ready to adjust another increment, go to bed or wake up another 15-20 minutes earlier. If not, go to bed and wake up at the same time you did yesterday.
6. Saturday 3/13 – Set your clocks forward this evening. Go to bed and wake up at the times you will need to post-transition. For example, if you decided to go to bed at 11:00 p.m. and wake up at 7:00 a.m., go to bed at 10:00 p.m. tonight and wake up after the time change at 7:00 a.m..
7. Sunday 3/14 – Get bright, natural light this morning. Wake up and go to bed at the times you selected. If you are tired, try taking a nap of 20 minutes or less in the early afternoon (before 3:00 p.m.).
8. Monday 3/15-Sunday 3/20 – Continue going to bed and waking up at the times you picked to ensure you get 7-8 hours of sleep.
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SIGN UP FOR REGULAR WASHINGTON COUNTY
JOINT INFORMATION CENTER (JIC) UPDATES
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Washington County, Maryland has invited many partners to form a Joint Information Center (JIC) created to address COVID-19.
Here at the Washington County Chamber of Commerce, we're proud to be involved in these weekly meetings and contributing to the County's press releases. We're in good company: Meritus Health, Washington County Public Schools, Hagerstown Community College, The City of Hagerstown, Washington County Sheriff's Department, and Washington County Health Department. All of these agencies combine information on a daily basis to form several uniform emails per week.
We want YOU to be a part of this mailing list, but you need to sign up to receive these messages and we encourage you to pass along the word to the rest of our community, should they be interested in receiving these alerts in their Inbox.
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Do you have something to share with fellow Chamber members? Simply email Director of Member Services Brianna Scott at brianna@hagerstown.org to get started on this free opportunity.
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Washington County Chamber of Commerce members include more than 650 organizations, representing over 40,000 local jobs in a wide variety of industries: Retail, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Skilled Trades, Service and Hospitality, Technology, Government, Nonprofit, and Education. |
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