The start of a New Year is often the time to make resolutions for the year ahead. It can also be a time for reflection on those events that stand out as highlights of the year just passed. We asked members of the community to share their personal highlights of 2018, a mix of personal and professional memories. We wish all of our readers a Happy 2019, filled with your own wonderful highlights!
DONNA M. DICKEY, PRESIDENT, BOARD of BEL AIR DOWNTOWN ALLIANCE:
“The highlight of 2018 was that it was normal! After a cancer diagnosis in 2015, treatment in 2016 and 2017 spent finding my way again, I got back to ME and found my stride again in 2018. My life is full and I will never take it for granted. Bring on 2019! I’m ready for it!”
NETTIE OWENS, CPO-CD, FOUNDER OF MOMENTUMACCOUNTABILITY.COM:
“2018 was a year of extremes, with an underlying current of discovery. The highlight was a little getaway with my husband that began as a way to take branding photography for my business. Because the original location would not work for the photographer, I offered to meet her in a more convenient place. It worked out, as all things generally do, and opened up the possibility for me to bring my husband along, while our three children were away at camp. We discovered a wonderful gem of a bed and breakfast, The Dewitt in the Catskills, New York. Nestled in the mountains with a babbling brook out back, we rested from what had been a tumultuous spring.
The food was delicious (always a plus) and the proprietor was lovely and warm. The place itself was magical, with antiques and interesting collections from the world over. It made for the perfect backdrop to my photoshoot and a luxurious place to just be and relax. Everything in the old hotel was for sale and it was all unique. The photoshoot turned out to be a transformative experience, and one I would recommend for anyone, in business or not, as an opportunity to see themselves as others do. I’ve included just one of the hundreds of images that were taken that day.” Photos by Ale B CallHerMagic.com
ROBERT BUDEN, OWNER, ARTISTS EMPORIUM:
“Turning 60 was a milestone in 2018. One generally reflects on one’s life on a birthday and I am joyful and thankful to live, work and play in Havre de Grace. In 2002, I moved from Main Line Philadelphia to HdG and did not know a soul. I joined the Chamber, founded the Main Street program, volunteered for 501-c3 and in a short period of time had friends everywhere – from church to the pub. My point is: I am very happy to be where I am today, which is due to my engaging in numerous activities. If you are not happy where you are . . . do something different! Harford County is teaming with organizations that could use your help. You’ll meet some likeminded friends to create your own highlights of the years ahead.”
AMBER SHRODES, HARFORD COUNTY GOVERNMENT, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY SERVICES:
“Each year, since she was born, my daughter’s milestones have been the highlights that are most meaningful for me. Maddie has been fearless, enthusiastic and independent all of her life. This year she tried out for the Norrisville Elementary School Student Council. Her father and I were extremely proud of her trident platform which included encouraging kindness, charitable giving, and volunteerism. But I was in awe of the grace and strength she displayed when she was not selected for a position. She was not upset, congratulated the winners warmly, and said there would be ‘lots of other ways to participate’.”
LEN PARRISH, HARFORD COUNTY GOVERNMENT, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT:
“My Highlight of 2018 was being named to this year’s Daily Record’s VIP List and getting to spend an evening at the Baltimore Museum of Art celebrating with my family and a few friends. It was an honor to be recognized for my professional and community involvement, and we used the evening as an early 40th birthday celebration! It has been a very busy year celebrating professional and personal milestones for both my wife Andrea (who just received her doctoral degree) and me. It was a great night to be able to enjoy this designation with some of the most important people in my life.”
LAURI ORZEWICZ, TOURISM MANAGER, CITY of HAVRE DE GRACE: A SPECIAL ANNUAL VISIT
“In 2014, my daughter moved to Boston to attend graduate school. Since graduation, she has fallen in love with the City and has made it her home. I often fly up to meet her or she comes ‘home’ to visit. Three years ago I decided to spend my Mother’s Day in Boston with my daughter; we discovered the Lilac Festival at the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University held annually on Mother’s Day weekend. Lilacs being my favorite flower, I now get to spend my Mother’s Day among fields of lilacs with my daughter. We invited the family to join us this year. Pictured from our trip to Boston on May 13, 2018, my sister Susie, myself, my mom, my sister Leah, my niece Melanie and my daughter Amanda.”