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It’s “SOCKtober”! Donate Socks, Mittens, Hats, and Gloves to Assist Vulnerable Individuals in Harford County

Harford Local Connect - Issue #007

In this Issue of Harford Local Connect…
🌤️ Harford County, MD Weather
📰 It’s “SOCKtober”! Donate Socks, Mittens, Hats, and Gloves to Assist Vulnerable Individuals in Harford County
📰 Businesses in Harford County Eligible for Increased Reimbursement on Employee Training
👮🏼‍♂️ Car Dealership Employee Pocketed $223,000 in Fake Mechanical Repair Scheme
📅 Local Events & Happenings
🏈 Ravens vs. Steelers in Pittsburgh Sunday Oct 8th @ 1pm
🏈 Key Ravens Players Return to Practice Ahead of Steelers Game
Orioles vs. Rangers at home Saturday Oct 7th @ 1pm
Homefield Advantage Lends Support to Orioles' Playoff Run

It’s “SOCKtober”! Donate Socks, Mittens, Hats, and Gloves to Assist Vulnerable Individuals in Harford County

A row of different socks pegged on a line. Shot on film.

In an effort to address the pressing need for warm socks, mittens, and hats in homeless shelters, Harford County is launching its annual "SOCKtober" collection drive.

In partnership with the Harford County Public Library and the We Cancerve Foundation, the initiative seeks to collect new socks, mittens, hats, and gloves to aid local individuals grappling with homelessness and support veteran organizations.

Collection boxes for donations are available in county government buildings, recreation centers, senior centers, and all public libraries through October 31.

"As we move into the colder months of the year, please keep the less fortunate in mind and consider making a donation of these much needed items," County Executive Bob Cassilly said.

According to the county, many individuals donate coats and pants but typically use their socks, hats, and mittens to their full lifespan before discarding them. As a result, the homeless population is at a heightened risk of foot ailments and exposure to the harsh winter cold.

Businesses in Harford County Eligible for Increased Reimbursement on Employee Training

Code review @NESA || Victor x Temilola

Harford County in Maryland has decided to double the amount it will reimburse businesses that invest in employee training to enhance productivity. Under the Workforce Technical Training Grant Program, qualified companies from any industry can receive up to $2,000 per trained employee, and a maximum of $10,000 per company annually. The county hopes that by doubling the grant amounts, it will encourage more businesses to participate in the program.

The move comes after a recommendation from the Harford County Economic Development Advisory Board, which believes that employee training is crucial for businesses to stay competitive in today's high-tech world. The program not only helps businesses pay for technical training, but also aids employees in improving their skills and qualifying for well-paying jobs. Harford County sees these funds as an investment in both the local economy and the community.

The Harford County Office of Economic Development is hosting a webinar to provide information about the application process for the Workforce Technical Training Grant Program. The webinar also allows business owners to ask questions and seek clarity on the program. The county encourages all interested parties to attend the next webinar, scheduled for 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 10. The deadline for applications in this round is Friday, Oct. 20. If businesses miss this deadline, they will have to wait until May 2024 for the next review of applications.

For more information about the program visit harfordcountymd.gov/1285/Workforce-Technical-Training-Grant or contact Bonnie Barresi, business development associate by phone at 410-638-3338 or via email at [email protected].

Car Dealership Employee Pocketed $223,000 in Fake Mechanical Repair Scheme

Hammer Ruling GIF by Drawify

Kenneth Wayne Collins III, a former employee at a car dealership in Maryland, has been found guilty of a theft scheme. Collins used his position as a service technician to file fraudulent claims for mechanical repairs under vehicle service contracts issued by insurance companies.

He pocketed over $223,000 from the scheme, which took place over a year-long period. Collins pleaded guilty to one count of theft scheme involving property valued at $100,000 or more and faces a maximum sentence of five years of incarceration. He will also have to pay restitution.

October 05 FAFSA Application Workshop Bel Air

October 06-08 The Ramble Festival Darlington

October 07 Walk to End Alzheimer’s Aberdeen

October 07 4-H Fall Fest and Open House Street

October 07-08 Stellar Con 2023 Bel Air

October 08 Maritime Museum Autumn Fest Havre de Grace

October 09-13 Harford County Tire Recycling Event Bel Air

October 11 - November 1 Emergency Preparedness Class Edgewood

October 17 Meet the Author: Mark Dawidziak Abingdon

October 19 Choose Hope Celebration Gala Belcamp

October 21 8th Annual Spooky Soiree Edgewood

October 27 Sneaker Ball Luxe Edition Edgewood

November 4 Pet Vaccination Clinic Edgewood

Ravens Football

Ravens are 3-1-0 this season and head to Pittsburgh this weekend to play the Steelers!

Key Ravens Players Return to Practice Ahead of Steelers Game

The Baltimore Ravens welcomed back some key players to practice on Wednesday. Cornerback Marlon Humphrey, wide receivers Odell Beckham Jr. and Rashod Bateman made their returns after missing multiple games due to injuries.

Humphrey underwent foot surgery in mid-August and has been sidelined for the first four games of the season. It remains uncertain whether he will be able to play in the upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Beckham has been out since Week 2, while Bateman sustained an injury in Week 3.

Head Coach John Harbaugh stated that the team will assess the condition of these players as the week progresses to determine their availability for Sunday's game. The return of these receivers would provide a boost to the Ravens' offense and provide options for quarterback Lamar Jackson.

Additionally, left tackle Ronnie Stanley, who missed last week's game, participated fully in practice. However, right tackle Morgan Moses did not practice due to a shoulder injury. The Ravens had a few other players who were limited or did not practice, including outside linebacker Odafe Oweh and safety Daryl Worley.

On a positive note, cornerback Jalyn Armour-Davis returned after leaving Sunday's game, and rookie running back Keaton Mitchell was designated for return from injured reserve. Safety Marcus Williams was able to participate fully in practice, but outside linebacker Tyus Bowser remained on the non-football injury list and did not practice.

Orioles Baseball

Orioles vs. Texas Rangers at home Saturday Oct 7th @ 1pm

Homefield Advantage Lends Support to Orioles' Playoff Run

The Baltimore Orioles are set to kick off their postseason run on Saturday afternoon, as Major League Baseball announced the start time of Game 1 of the American League Division Series. The game will take place at 1 p.m. at Oriole Park at Camden Yards, and the Orioles will face off against the Texas Rangers.

This is a significant moment for the Orioles, as it marks their return to the playoffs after a six-year hiatus. The team last made it to the postseason in 2016 and went on to reach the American League Championship Series in 2014. They have had a remarkable season, winning the American League East division title and achieving the milestone of 100+ wins for the first time since 1980.

As the top seed in the American League, the Orioles will enjoy home field advantage throughout the playoffs, at least until the World Series if they continue to advance. This is a major boost for the team and its fans, as playing in familiar surroundings can provide a significant advantage.

In addition to the excitement on the baseball front, the Orioles will be sharing the spotlight on Saturday evening. M&T Bank Stadium will be hosting a concert featuring Billy Joel and Stevie Nicks, adding to the city's entertainment offerings and further enhancing the festive atmosphere.

The Orioles are eager to capitalize on their success and bring home their first World Series victory since 1983. The team has a mix of experienced veterans and emerging young stars who are poised to make an impact. Players like Cedric Mullins, Anthony Santander, Austin Hays, Adam Frazier, and Ryan Mountcastle provide valuable leadership, and the team also has promising prospects in Adley Rutschman and Gunnar Henderson.

While the Orioles have a strong roster, the exact order of their starting rotation for the playoffs has not yet been announced. It is expected that Kyle Bradish, Grayson Rodriguez, Kyle Gibson, Dean Kremer, and John Means will be available as starting pitchers, but the team's strategy in utilizing them remains to be seen.

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