It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Bel Air Courthouse Historic District gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Bel Air, MD is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Always Best care is the best! Their caregiver is very nice with respective attitude. They”
“I am a past client of this provider My mother passed away two months ago after”
“I am a past client of this provider ABC Upper Chesapeake provided excellent and compassionate care”
“I met with Elaine Gill as we needed a secure place for my Dad. She”
“I cannot really find the words to say how wonderful the staff is at Always”
“I interviewed this provider I used Always Best Care to care for my parents who happen”
“I used Always Best Care to care for my parents who happen to live in”
“I am a past client of this provider I cannot really find the words to say”
“I interviewed this provider Elaine is professional, knowledgeable, and has a heart for people. Her recommendations”
“I interviewed this provider When we needed help getting our Father the proper care we were”
“Always Best care is the best! Their caregiver is very nice with respective attitude. They are all expert and knows their job very well in all ages. I never regret that their service to take care of my grandmother. They are trustworthy, respectful, honest and passionate to their work. I highly recommend them on their work.”
“I am a past client of this provider My mother passed away two months ago after nearly four years of coverage from the team members of ABC Upper Chesapeake. Mom and I were both very pleased with the coverage. ABC was most congenial to do their best to provide Mom with caretakers whom we found suited to Mom's personality and temperament. In the very few cases this was not so, we asked for someone else to care for Mom and this was promptly provided. All in all the caretakers were kind, friendly, competent and helpful, providing Mom with good care and company. Elaine G was very helpful in getting us in contact with the VA so that Mom was able to obtain a monthly benefit entitled to her because of Dad's service in the military. That was a great financial help to us in our particular situation. I strongly recommend this agency for the homebound and ill. They will work with you to do all they can to grant your reasonable requests. Thank you, Elaine and caretakers!”
“I am a past client of this provider ABC Upper Chesapeake provided excellent and compassionate care for my late father during his prolonged decline at age 95. The care enabled him to live in his home with my mom during his final months of life. Elaine worked with me diligently to match my parents' difficult situation with the perfect caregiver. My father was treated with dignity and gentleness when he was no longer able to care for himself at all. It gave our family great peace of mind knowing he was so well cared for.”
“I met with Elaine Gill as we needed a secure place for my Dad. She was very knowledgeable and professional. Fortunately, the second location she showed us was a good fit (Dakota Paradise). I heartily recommend Always Best Care if you want help finding a loved one the proper care.”
“I cannot really find the words to say how wonderful the staff is at Always Best Care of Upper Chesapeake: Highly competent, Comforting, caring, extremely attentive, endlessly patient and reassuring. Elaine Gill has done an amazing job at ensuring that the staff she has are just as committed to ensuring the highest quality of life for every client, as Elaine! You are on the top of my list for any further care services that my family members may need going forward.”
“I interviewed this provider I used Always Best Care to care for my parents who happen to live in another state. I met with Elaine (the owner) to discuss my options and determine the best caregiver service to meet my parents needs. She was a great help; addressed all my questions and concerns and gave me peace of mind that my parents were in good hands. Their caregiver is wonderful and very competent. I don't have to worry about them or become a detective to find out what is going on with them in Maryland. Although my parents were a little skeptical at first, Elaine and her staff have put their mind at ease and made them feel very comfortable about the entire experience. They both feel much safer now and happier that they are able to stay in the home that they love. I am comforted in knowing that my parents are receiving quality care and they are in the capable hands of Elaine and her staff at Always Best Care. Words can not express my sincere gratitude for the awesome care provided to my parents.”
“I used Always Best Care to care for my parents who happen to live in another state. I met with Elaine (the owner) to discuss my options and determine the best caregiver service to meet my parents needs. She was a great help; addressed all my questions and concerns and gave me peace of mind that my parents were in good hands. Their caregiver is wonderful and very competent. I don't have to worry about them or become a detective to find out what is going on with them in Maryland. Although my parents were a little skeptical at first, Elaine and her staff have put their mind at ease and made them feel very comfortable about the entire experience. They both feel much safer now and happier that they are able to stay in the home that they love. I am comforted in knowing that my parents are receiving quality care and they are in the capable hands of Elaine and her staff at Always Best Care. Words can not express my sincere gratitude for the awesome care provided to my parents.”
“I am a past client of this provider I cannot really find the words to say how wonderful the staff is at Always Best Care of Upper Chesapeake: Highly competent, Comforting, caring, extremely attentive, endlessly patient and reassuring. Elaine Gill has done an amazing job at ensuring that the staff she has are just as committed to ensuring the highest quality of life for every client, as Elaine! You are on the top of my list for any further care services that my family members may need going forward.”
“I interviewed this provider Elaine is professional, knowledgeable, and has a heart for people. Her recommendations have been invaluable. We are thankful for Always Best! It is a 5 Star Company!!”
“I interviewed this provider When we needed help getting our Father the proper care we were recommended to Elaine and ABC. It was the right move. Fortunately for us the second location she showed us was the right fit. It's been a difficult time and having their expertise eased our concerns.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Bynum Run Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Pairings Bistro or visit Hays House Museum, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Bel Air, MD, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Bel Air, MD understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Bel Air, MD 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Celebrate National Donut Day at one of the delicious local bakeries and donut shops, or with specials offered at national donut shops.BEL AIR, MD — National Donut Day is always observed on the first Friday in June, and there are plenty of places in Harford County and across Maryland offering deals on the sugary swirls The Salvation Army’s now legendary “Doughnut Lassies” fried in frontline soldiers’ helmets during World War I.Before we dive into where residents can score free doughnuts and other ...
BEL AIR, MD — National Donut Day is always observed on the first Friday in June, and there are plenty of places in Harford County and across Maryland offering deals on the sugary swirls The Salvation Army’s now legendary “Doughnut Lassies” fried in frontline soldiers’ helmets during World War I.
Before we dive into where residents can score free doughnuts and other deals, a bit of history: National Donut Day was created in Chicago in 1938 as a tribute to the volunteer corps of 250 women who traveled overseas during World War I to provide support to frontline troops. They distributed clothing and supplies and planned to hand out baked goods, a logistically difficult task.
Two of the women, Ensign Margaret Sheldon and Adjutant Helen Purviance, began frying doughnuts in helmets, and the “tasty treats boosted morale and won the hearts of many soldiers,” according to an account by the U.S. World War One Centennial Commission and Doughboy Foundation.
We have 19th-century Dutch immigrants to thank for bringing “olykoeks,” or oily cakes, to New Amsterdam, as Manhattan was known at the time. They were essentially fried dough balls, but over time evolved into the ring-shaped treat with a hole in the middle. Americans are said to consume about 10 billion doughnuts a year.
Below are just a few of the popular donut shops and bakeries to visit in Harford County:
Here are some places with National Donut Day deals across Maryland:
7-Eleven: On June 6, rewards members can get a glazed doughnut for 50 cents at participating 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes locations. After National Donut Day, the same doughnuts are available for $1 through June 24.
Duck Donuts: The “made-to-order” doughnut chain is offering a free Cinnamon Sugar Donut for in-store guests only on Friday. Both in-store and online customers can get a half dozen Cinnamon Sugar Donuts on Friday.
Dunkin’: For the 15th year, Dunkin’ is offering a free doughnut with the purchase of any beverage, but also is teaming with luxury lifestyle and accessories brand Stoney Clover Lane on a limited-edition branded merchandise on the morning breakfast combination.
Krispy Kreme: Guests can get any doughnut of their choice for free with no purchase necessary on Friday. Also, in celebration of the Original Glazed doughnut’s 88th birthday, all guests can get a dozen of the signature treat for $2 with the purchase of any dozen at regular price in shop and via drive-thru at participating Krispy Kreme shops. On Saturday, Krispy Kreme launches its “14 Days of Original Glazed,” which offers special deals to rewards club members through June 20.
Paris Baguette: The bakery-cafe chain is offering a free sugar mochi or small twisted doughnut to rewards members with any purchase.
Shipley Do-Nuts: The chain is offering “freebie Fridays” throughout the month to celebrate National Donut Day. Beginning this Friday, get a free glazed doughnut with any purchase (while supplies last). Deals continue on Fridays through June 27. To score deals, visit any Shipley’s location, order online through the loyalty app with code DonutMonth25.
Voodoo Doughnut: On Friday, in-store customers can get a free doughnut of their choice with the purchase of a $10 Pink Raised Glazed Dozen.
Harford County Public Library's 2025 Summer Reading program takes place June 2 through August 16 and encourages everyone – from infants, toddlers and preschoolers to children, teens and adults – to accomplish reading goals and continue learning throughout the summer. The Presenting Sponsor is Celebree School.Participants are invited to sign up and keep track of books and activities by visiting https://hcplonline.org/srplanding.php. This year’s them...
Harford County Public Library's 2025 Summer Reading program takes place June 2 through August 16 and encourages everyone – from infants, toddlers and preschoolers to children, teens and adults – to accomplish reading goals and continue learning throughout the summer. The Presenting Sponsor is Celebree School.
Participants are invited to sign up and keep track of books and activities by visiting https://hcplonline.org/srplanding.php. This year’s theme is Color Our World.
A Summer Reading celebration takes place at the Abingdon Library on June 16 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Participants will have the opportunity to meet sponsors who will be on-hand to offer additional incentives. Families can complete the Summer Reading program for their incentive prizes, which will be available at all branches starting June 16.
“This year’s Summer Reading program offers a variety of programming for everyone. In addition to great books, there are hands-on science, farmyard and horse programs plus art, music and magic activities,” said Mary Hastler, CEO of Harford County Public Library. “We thank our very generous sponsors because we couldn’t offer these amazing programs without their support.”
The 2025 Summer Reading goals are for infants through preschoolers to read 25 books; elementary school students, 10 books; middle and high school students, three books; and adults, five books. A completion certificate will be available to all who sign up and complete their goals.
Registration giveaways for infants through high school ages will be available at all library branches and may be picked up after signing up. This year’s giveaways, while supplies last, include a coupon sheet with discounts to local businesses as well as a ticket voucher to attend an Aberdeen IronBirds baseball game.
Completion prizes will be available, while supplies last, starting June 16. Prizes include a free book for infants to children entering grade 8 and a free Horizon Cinemas movie ticket for teens entering grades 9 through 12.
Beginning June 2, a limited edition 2025 Color Our World T-shirt is available for $5 each (while supplies last) at all Harford County Public Library locations.
In addition to Presenting Sponsor Celebree School, additional sponsors include Bel Air Friends of HCPL, Harford Day School, APGFCU, Havre de Grace Friends of HCPL, Rosedale Federal, Klein’s ShopRite of Maryland, Rotary Club of Aberdeen, Aberdeen Friends of HCPL and Harford County Public Library Foundation. In-kind sponsors are Horizon Cinemas and Aberdeen IronBirds.
There are numerous programs and activities being held at multiple libraries, often over several days. To find specific locations, dates and times, visit https://programs.hcplonline.org/events. Among the highlights are:
Harford County Public Library operates 11 branches located throughout Harford County offering access to ideas that inform, entertain and inspire. Last year the Library interacted with its residents more than 12 million times – borrowing free materials, visiting branches and the website, using free WiFi, and attending classes and events. In 2024 Harford County Public Library received the Maryland Library Association Excellence in Marketing Award for graphic excellence for the second time. For more information, visit HCPLonline.org.
BEL AIR, Md. — A shuttered department store, with its faded logo - it's a reminder of what Harford Mall in Bel Air used to be."It’s dreary. It used to be a really bustling place, people used to be there, and now it’s just kind of like desolate, dead," Luca Fleshman, who works at a store inside the mall, told WMAR-2 News on Friday.Take a look at the vision for the future at the site of Harford Mall"I think it’s kind of surreal. I grew up with my dad and my mom taking me to Justice th...
BEL AIR, Md. — A shuttered department store, with its faded logo - it's a reminder of what Harford Mall in Bel Air used to be.
"It’s dreary. It used to be a really bustling place, people used to be there, and now it’s just kind of like desolate, dead," Luca Fleshman, who works at a store inside the mall, told WMAR-2 News on Friday.
Take a look at the vision for the future at the site of Harford Mall
"I think it’s kind of surreal. I grew up with my dad and my mom taking me to Justice that was here, and that’s long gone, so it’s kind of bittersweet," Genevieve Riehl, a shopper and resident of Bel Air, said.
But rather than focusing on the past, new developers are putting forth their vision for the future.
"I think it’s a good idea. I think it’ll be beneficial to the community," Riehl said.
Atlanta-based development company SJC Ventures just unveiled plans for the major redevelopment project here at the Harford Mall - plans that have been in the works for more than a year.
The project really took off once the company secured what they're calling a "catalyst retailer." In this case, it's an organic grocery store the developers can't formally name just yet, but WMAR-2 News can confirm that it's Whole Foods.
The next phase will entail knocking down the former Macy's, and turning it into an open-air, pedestrian-friendly shopping center. The former Sears building has already been redeveloped, and will soon open as an Amazon Fresh grocery store. Behind that, will be an apartment complex. Eventually, the goal is to revamp the entire mall, and have it be a space you can walk through.
"It is the way forward, but this is a unique opportunity," Garrison said. "We look at malls across the country and there's typically some predatory lease that can't be terminated, that controls the ability to redevelop the site. They'll either hold out for a lot of money or they just don't want to do it. Here, CBL [the current owner] has done a great job of working with tenants to provide them with alternative locations to really work to keep this opportunity open for a redevelopment, in order to really satisfy what the community is looking for - this open air sort of really activated, energetic, community retail hub."
"Over the last couple years, more and more department stores have been shut down and I feel like there’s a lot of stuff that can be used with the space already that’s not being utilized," shopper Thomas Cochran said.
"They’ve talked about how they’re gonna put a center court again, where it’s like greenery, things like that. And I do feel like that would breathe some life back into the mall, you know malls are dying. And it might be good for the apartments there too. I do really hope that happens," Fleshman said.
There's been concern about congestion and traffic getting worse at this busy intersection.
"I mean, all over Bel Air they've been implementing apartment complexes and I have seen an increase in the traffic in the past decade so I think the traffic's just gonna keep getting worse," Riehl said.
"We've done our due diligence," Garrison told WMAR-2 News in response. "So we've hired traffic engineers, we've worked with the staff at the town, and we are very comfortable that the traffic is going to be not an issue. We're actually diminishing the amount of retail space, we're diminishing the number of trips. When you're trying to create open space, when you're trying to create a different plan, it's not just, you know, box upon box upon box of typical mall style development. So it's a little bit more thoughtful. It's a little bit less dense."
As for when construction will start, Garrison said: “We have a little bit of a time-sensitive uh development approach for the catalyst retailer. They're trying to be open by the fall of 2027. That's a big target for them. And so we've really been focused on phase three, you know, the rest of the phases can come at the appropriate time and, and certainly getting the catalyst in is the major sort of requirement, but I think it's gonna follow very shortly thereafter and you're gonna see things start to change rapidly, uh, as, as you would hope and the mall will be de-malled, but that discussion is yet to be had."
“Harford Mall has been a staple in the Bel Air community for more than 50 years. Over the last several years, as the retail industry has evolved, we’ve been working to position the property for the future,” said Jon Meshel, senior vice president for redevelopment at CBL Properties. “Our partnership with SJC presents us with an unparalleled opportunity to redevelop the former Macy’s parcel into an open-air shopping center anchored by one of the country’s leading organic grocers. This new development will complement SJC’s project on the former Sears parcel on the southwest side of the campus as well as the multifamily development adjacent to the former Sears. As the owner of Harford Mall, we could not imagine a higher and better use for the former Macy’s parcel, and we look forward to working with SJC as they move forward with this project.”
“The Harford Mall property sits at an integral intersection of Routes 1 and 24 in Bel Air and has served our community well for many years. As malls have changed across the country, we are grateful to CBL Properties for their continued commitment to Bel Air and the investment they are making, along with SJC Ventures, to transform the Macy’s portion of the property into a lifestyle center that will create additional connectivity and vibrancy along this corridor,” said Angela Robertson, director of economic development for the Town of Bel Air. “We look forward to seeing the vision of SJC Ventures come to life in Phase 3 of this redevelopment project, which will create new jobs, enhance our community, attract additional investment, and bring new opportunities for up-scale shopping and dining to our Bel Air residents.”
"Hello Harford," is the county's new approach to tourism using innovative technology, strategic marketing, and inclusive collaboration. Department of Economic Development Director Karen Holt, left, addresses the more than 120 hoteliers, museums, attractions, and other tourism-related organizations gathered during the Hello Harford launch event at Swan Harbor Farm in Havre de Grace.Harford County gathered more than 120 hoteliers, museums, attractions, and other tourism-related organizations on Thursday for the launch...
Department of Economic Development Director Karen Holt, left, addresses the more than 120 hoteliers, museums, attractions, and other tourism-related organizations gathered during the Hello Harford launch event at Swan Harbor Farm in Havre de Grace.
Harford County gathered more than 120 hoteliers, museums, attractions, and other tourism-related organizations on Thursday for the launch of “Hello Harford,” the county’s new approach to tourism using innovative technology, strategic marketing, and inclusive collaboration.
Tourism marketing is funded by the county’s 6% hotel tax.
The launch event at Swan Harbor Farm in Havre de Grace was organized by the Harford County Department of Economic Development, which is overseeing Hello Harford under the direction of the county’s new tourism manager, Jodi Marschhauser. County Executive Bob Cassilly gave welcoming remarks. The Havre de Grace High School Jazz Ensemble provided entertainment.
Attendees were introduced to two new technology platforms purchased by the county, which will be available to all tourism-related organizations, Placer AI and Let’s Rallie.
Placer AI allows event organizers to understand visitor foot traffic and behavior in real time, such as when people are coming to events and where they’re coming from. This data allows for targeted and more responsive marketing strategies.
Let’s Rallie assists visitors and organizers of larger events with an interactive map showing exactly where each vendor is and allows real-time notifications for announcements, schedule changes, and pop-up activities to communicate with attendees.
“Instead of guessing what is working—we will know. Instead of hoping people saw an ad—we’ll be able to track patterns and trends,” Marschhauser said. “This gives you a huge advantage as we build campaigns, schedule events, and support local businesses in the ways that matter most.”
Market research, conducted on behalf of the county by a professional marketing firm, led the county to a deeper understanding of what makes Harford unique and helped identify potential visitors, Marschhauser said.
Based on that research, the county developed branding and has begun digital marketing and targeted social media posts to reach and attract customers who might not otherwise have known about or thought of coming to Harford.
The new Hello Harford logo, website, and Facebook page identify the county as a friendly place that’s easy to reach for a weekend trip filled with festive events, natural beauty, and outdoor recreation.
Marschhauser said the website, www.helloharford.com, and Facebook page were built to be the go-to hubs for information, stories, events, and visuals that inspire visitors and locals alike.
“Whether someone’s planning a trip or already here looking for things to do, we want to make it seamless, engaging, and exciting,” she said.
Lastly, she said that she is personally visiting stakeholders and encouraging collaboration among them.
“Harford is already blessed to have tourists coming here each weekend—youth sports, weddings, festivals, etc., we attract people far and wide. While they’re here, we’ll make sure these visitors know everything there is to experience and enjoy in Harford County and to take advantage of more places to stay, things to do and places to see. This will involve the use of technology but more fundamentally, it will involve facilitating communication and collaboration among all stakeholders—to ensure that you know what’s happening and that you feel part of the process; to ensure that new partnerships and collaborations are formed; and to make sure your information is known to visitors. And we’re here to help make those connections to benefit our visitors and your business.”
County Executive Bob Cassilly emphasized the importance of collaboration.
“And because we’re connected to you, we can connect you with each other. This event is only one example – and it won’t be the last. Because when hoteliers and restaurants and attractions work together, it’s a win for them and it’s a win for visitors.”
The county executive brought tourism marketing into the county government last year. He explained the decision to attendees:
“When I came into office two years ago, I had an open mind and took a full year to evaluate options for tourism. After careful analysis, I determined that it would be more efficient and effective to have tourism under county government instead of an outside entity. Why should that matter to you? Because we are embracing the latest technology and making it available to our tourism industry partners so we can work together to identify and implement new ideas and strategies to attract tourists who otherwise would not know or have considered coming to Harford County. We are excited about this new approach, and I am confident that this will elevate tourism to greater heights – along with your bottom line.”
Paulette Gibson Chappell Barnett, age 80, of Fallston, Maryland passed away peacefully in her home on Saturday, April 26, 2025. Beloved wife of 58 years to Ira Martin Barnett; devoted mother of Lisa D. Barnett and her husband Bruce Bruning of Richmond, Va, and the late Michael T. Barnett and his surviving former wife Julie Barnett; loving grandmother of Jacob Barnett, Matthew Bruning, and Davis Bruning; dear sister of Norma Faye Irvine and her husband Dr. David Irvine of Henderson, NC (and her niece and nephews, Allison Dluzneski, Robert Irv...
Paulette Gibson Chappell Barnett, age 80, of Fallston, Maryland passed away peacefully in her home on Saturday, April 26, 2025. Beloved wife of 58 years to Ira Martin Barnett; devoted mother of Lisa D. Barnett and her husband Bruce Bruning of Richmond, Va, and the late Michael T. Barnett and his surviving former wife Julie Barnett; loving grandmother of Jacob Barnett, Matthew Bruning, and Davis Bruning; dear sister of Norma Faye Irvine and her husband Dr. David Irvine of Henderson, NC (and her niece and nephews, Allison Dluzneski, Robert Irvine and David Irvine, Jr. whom she loved as her own children), Bruce Chappell of Jacksonville, FL, Keith Chappell and his wife Betsy of New Bern, NC, and the late Timothy Chappell.
Paulette was born on December 11, 1944 in Henderson, North Carolina to Vashtie Pearce Chappell and Montie Bruce Chappell. She grew up in Henderson N.C. and attended Henderson High School. In high school, Paulette was a star basketball player and a state essay contest winner. Paulette attended Greensboro College and graduated with a degree in English literature. It was there that she met Ira Martin Barnett. The two were together for 61 years and married for 58 years.
Paulette worked as an English teacher for a number of years. Much to her children’s chagrin, she was a lover of good grammar, always ready with a necessary correction. Paulette was an avid reader and a beautiful writer. Her birthday cards were legendary and now a precious keepsake. She was a lover of quotes, collecting them, posting them around the house and using them judiciously to underscore an important point. She inspired many to tap into their artistic creativity. Paulette was an intellectual powerhouse, always learning and always ready to engage.
Paulette was a competitor and athlete to the core. The intensity and hilarity in which she played board games will be missed by her family. She loved playing charades, password, Word Sweep with her grandson, Matthew, corn hole and many more. She purchased a new game each year for Christmas for the family. But her athleticism and competitiveness reached soaring heights when she and her tennis team won the 2008 USTA National Doubles Championship in Las Vegas, Nevada at the age of 64.
Paulette was a creative force. Her birthday towers, theme-based birthdays, unmatched Christmas decorations with multiple theme-based trees throughout the house creating a winter wonderland, and her over-the-top graduations and celebrations, were magazine-worthy. Her creativity extended to her culinary skills, where she wowed everyone with her dishes and desserts. And yet, she reserved all of this for her family and friends only.
The most important thing to Paulette was family. A loving wife to Ira, she supported his career with Sears and the many moves that took the family up and down the east coast. She was actively involved in her children’s lives serving as a Webelos leader, Girl Scout leader, and volunteer for many school activities. She transferred her love of music to her children getting them involved with the school band and working at night to buy her daughter her first piano. But the crowning jewel in a lifetime of achievement and selflessness was her role as grandmother. Paulette devoted the last 25 years of her life to her three grandsons and was an unparalleled grandmother.
Paulette was selfless at her essence, always there to help family and friends in their time of need, always there to truly listen and always there to help pick up the pieces in challenging times. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend who lived for others and made them the center of her life. She will be deeply missed and remembered by all.
“A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again.” - Maya Angelou
A memorial service to celebrate Paulette’s life will be held on Saturday, May 31 at the First United Methodist Church 114 Church Street, Henderson, NC 27536
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choosing in Paulette’s honor. Please also feel free to share your favorite quote or a quote that reminds you of Paulette in her honor below.
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