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 Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine in Middle River, MD 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 Middle River, 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”
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“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 Wilson Point Park in Middle River, MD 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 By The Docks Seafood Restaurant or visit Jerusalem Mill, 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 Middle River, 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 Middle River, 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 Middle River, 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.
It is always fun for anglers to strike out on a new fishing adventure. Venturing to an unexplored body of water or looking for a different species than usual can add a little spice to your fishing experience.Forecast Summary: October 1 – October 7:Expect partly cloudy weather and relatively stable conditions for fishing in Chesapeake Bay waters all week. There is a limited chance of rain all week. As reported by the NOAA buoys, main Bay surface water temperatures are currently in the mid 70s but continue to ...
It is always fun for anglers to strike out on a new fishing adventure. Venturing to an unexplored body of water or looking for a different species than usual can add a little spice to your fishing experience.
Forecast Summary: October 1 – October 7:
Expect partly cloudy weather and relatively stable conditions for fishing in Chesapeake Bay waters all week. There is a limited chance of rain all week. As reported by the NOAA buoys, main Bay surface water temperatures are currently in the mid 70s but continue to slowly cool. River temperatures are slightly cooler in the upper 60s.
Salinities are below normal for most Maryland waters this time of year. Oxygen conditions throughout the main Bay are much improved and suitable to the bottom in most places.
Expect average water clarity for Maryland’s streams, rivers, and main Bay waters. To see the latest water clarity conditions on NOAA satellite maps, check Eyes on the Bay Satellite Maps. There will be above average tidal currents Saturday through Tuesday as a result of the full moon on October 7.
Upper Chesapeake Bay
The Conowingo Dam recently began a limited amount of power generation and remains inactive during most of the day, resulting in very low flows from the dam. A few striped bass are being caught in the dam pool but most of the attention is geared to fishing for blue catfish. Along the edges of the Susquehanna Flats fishing for striped bass during the early morning hours is slow.
There is some striped bass action occurring in the Baltimore Harbor during the morning hours for anglers casting paddletails, poppers, and soft plastic jigs. The harbor and Patapsco River have been plagued with fish kills lately so adjust your fishing accordingly.
The upper Bay striped bass will hopefully begin to slip into a fall pattern, at which time trolling deep with umbrella rigs and jigging along channel edges will come into play. Spot are beginning to head south so many anglers collecting bait for live-lining will switch to white perch and eels.
White perch are still being caught on various knolls and lumps in the upper Bay this week.
Middle Bay
Striped bass fortunes have been tough in the middle Bay, but prospects are looking better this week. Live-lining spot and other bait at the Bay Bridge piers has been more productive in the past week. The 30-foot channel edge on the eastern side of the bridge has been one of the more productive spots. Casting soft plastic jigs at pier bases during the morning hours is also a good way to target striped bass. Casting jigs at Thomas Point and paddletails and topwater lures near Poplar Island, the lower Choptank, and promising Bay shorelines are also good tactics for striped bass this week. Water temperatures in the lower tidal rivers are now in the low 70s; when they decline to the lower 60s, bay anchovies and juvenile menhaden will begin to exit the tidal rivers, and the fall pattern of striped bass fishing will begin.
Bluefish can still be found in the middle Bay along the channel edge from Buoy 83 south past the Sharps Island Light to the False Channel. Trolling surgical tube lures and spoons behind planers and inline weights is the most popular way to catch them. At times breaking bluefish can be encountered and catching them by casting metal jigs on light tackle is always fun.
White perch can still be found in the middle to lower sections of the region’s tidal rivers and creeks this week. Fishing with grass shrimp near docks and oyster reefs is a good way to catch them. Casting small spinnerbaits along promising looking shorelines during the evening hours is another good way to target the larger white perch.
Bluefish of various sizes are a driving force in the lower Bay, with bluefish up to six pounds or more being found in the main part of the Bay and the mouth of the Potomac River. The channel edge along the east side of the Bay from the HS Buoy past the Target Ship is an excellent area for trolling surgical tube lures and spoons behind planers and inline weights. The west side of the Bay from Point No Point to the mouth of the Potomac River is also offering good trolling action for bluefish. Casting metal jigs to breaking bluefish can provide plenty of action.
Anglers are finding striped bass by jigging along the channel edges of the Potomac River near the Route 301 Bridge and near the Route 4 Bridge on the Patuxent River. They are also catching striped bass in the shallows of Tangier Sound and shallow areas near Hoopers Island and Cedar Point. Casting poppers is an exciting way to fish early in the morning, and paddletails are effective in the shallower waters for striped bass. The use of umbrella rigs is becoming more popular as striped bass begin to become suspended along deep and steep channel edges.
Large red drum are finding the cooler water temperatures much to their liking and are being found in the shallower waters along marsh edges, grass beds, and creek mouths. The Hoopers Island area and Tangier and Pocomoke sounds are some of the better places to get in on the exciting catch-and-release action this week. Casting paddletails and using soft crab baits are popular.
Fishing for a mix of spot and croakers continues to be good in the lower Patuxent River, Cornfield Harbor near Point Lookout, and the Cobb Island area of the Potomac River. The Tangier and Pocomoke sounds are also excellent places to find spot and croakers. White perch are being found in the tidal rivers and creeks this week and fishing with grass shrimp is one of the best ways to fish for them.
Blue Crabs:
Recreational crabbers continue to enjoy good crabbing in all regions of the bay this week, but they are seeing crabs moving to waters of 12-15 feet deep. Dropoff edges have been one of the more productive spots to set a trotline.
Freshwater Fishing
The fall trout stocking program will begin within a week, giving our put-and-take trout anglers something to look forward to. Many of the smaller streams and creeks in the central and western regions are suffering from extremely low flows due to the lack of rain. Regional biologists are checking conditions and making recommendations to stocking crews. Anglers will be notified on the trout stocking website or by email subscription as the stockings occur.
The staff at the trout hatcheries have been working hard to bring anglers the best trout possible, often under difficult conditions. These trout will soon be loaded onto tank trucks to be stocked at your favorite trout fishing spot.
The upper Potomac River continues to experience low flows this week. Anglers fishing for smallmouth bass will need to make careful approaches to promising spots and make long casts with light lines. A mix of paddletails, tubes, small crankbaits and poppers are good choices for lures based on the time of day.
Crappie are beginning to gather near deep structure; fallen treetops, marina docks, sunken wood, bridge piers all fit the bill. Fishing with small minnows or marabou jigs under a slip bobber is a good way to target them.
Largemouth bass are reacting to cooler water temperatures by becoming more aggressive in their feeding. They are feeding throughout the day and can be found near grass beds, structure and smaller feeder creek mouths. Topwater lures are always exciting to use, spinnerbaits are a good choice near grass bed edges and wacky rigged worms are an excellent choice when penetrating floating grass mats. Chesapeake Channa (northern snakehead) will be in the mix when fishing near or over grass beds in tidal waters.
Atlantic Ocean and Coastal Bays
Ocean City anglers will see the ocean stirred up with strong winds and heavy surf this week, but it is expected to diminish by the weekend. Anglers had been catching and releasing some nice red drum before the ocean became stirred up. Bluefish, croakers, and flounder have also been in the mix recently.
Fishing for sheepshead near the inlet’s jetty rocks has been good, although wave action may cause dangerous conditions. Sand fleas, pieces of crab, and peeler crab have been good baits to use. Flounder fishing in the back bay channels may decline due to cloudy water conditions. The incoming tide may bring clearer water and fishing close to the inlet may be a choice.
It is doubtful that any boats will clear the inlet until the weekend. The black sea bass season is closed and taking a rest until October 10, when it reopens until December 31. Anglers were making some impressive catches of large flounder before the weather moved in and that good fishing should continue once boats are able to comfortably take anglers out to the wreck and reef sites. The canyon fishery will also be on hold until the ocean calms down.
MIDDLE RIVER, Md. —The legendary A-10 Warthogs are officially gone from Maryland.State officials joined past and present National Guard brass for a deactivation ceremony on Tuesday to celebrate the legacy of the 175th Wing with mixed emotions. Officials expressed anger, frustration and deep pride.Troops hailed the A-10 as the most distinguished, effective and lethal support weapon in a war zone.Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, a decorated Army veteran, experienced the power of the steady, low-flying...
MIDDLE RIVER, Md. —
The legendary A-10 Warthogs are officially gone from Maryland.
State officials joined past and present National Guard brass for a deactivation ceremony on Tuesday to celebrate the legacy of the 175th Wing with mixed emotions. Officials expressed anger, frustration and deep pride.
Troops hailed the A-10 as the most distinguished, effective and lethal support weapon in a war zone.
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, a decorated Army veteran, experienced the power of the steady, low-flying attack jet firsthand in Afghanistan.
"That sound overhead meant that you were covered," Moore said at the ceremony Tuesday. "That sound overhead meant that you were protected. That sound overhead meant that you were never going to be alone."
"There is nothing like hearing the approach of an A-10. That shadow of a straight-wing aircraft around surrounding slopes or the scream of the engine as it banks," said Maj. Gen. Janeen Birckhead. "It is no wonder they declared, 'Go ugly and go early.' The A-10 earned its reputation under fire."
The A-10 aircraft has been in nine combat missions since 9/11.
Members of the 175th Wing, elected officials, family and friends packed into a maintenance hangar for the deactivation ceremony.
There was a presentation of colors, the reading of orders and the symbolic casing of the unit's flags.
"This is a moment of anger and frustration, but it is also a moment of deep pride of the work that you all did," Moore said. "No matter the darkness, no matter the danger, the Maryland Air National Guard was always ready and always there."
Around 545 Guard members are impacted by the aircrafts' retirement.
The military wants to expand its cyberspace and intelligence operations. Guard members are being offered cross-training.
The state has made improvements to the runway as negotiations continue to get another flying mission to land at Martin State Airport.
"This next chapter is ours to write. The mission continues, and when the story of this state continues to be written, it will be your fingerprints that will be all over the page," Moore said.
The expanded cyber unit will be based at Martin State Airport.
UPDATE 2: Baltimore County Public Library’s statement on County Executive Klausmeier’s decision not to move forward with the Middle River Branch proposal.“We are disappointed to hear Baltimore County’s decision to end negotiations to build a library branch in Middle River. Data shows that Middle River is one of the fastest-growing communities, yet it does not have its own library branch. We appreciate the community’s advocacy and support for this project and St. John Properties for its col...
UPDATE 2: Baltimore County Public Library’s statement on County Executive Klausmeier’s decision not to move forward with the Middle River Branch proposal.
“We are disappointed to hear Baltimore County’s decision to end negotiations to build a library branch in Middle River. Data shows that Middle River is one of the fastest-growing communities, yet it does not have its own library branch. We appreciate the community’s advocacy and support for this project and St. John Properties for its collaboration on creating a 21st century building that would fulfill the library’s vision and the community’s needs.”
Original story below…
MIDDLE RIVER, MD—A prominent community organization is sharply criticizing Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier’s decision to abandon plans for a new public library branch in Middle River, calling the move a “blatant insult” to taxpayers in the area. Councilman David Marks is also blasting the decision.
Josh Sines, President of the Essex Middle River Civic Council, issued a blistering statement on Friday, asserting that Klausmeier’s recent decision to halt negotiations over a proposed leased facility was about priorities, not affordability.
“Baltimore County’s decision to abandon plans for a Middle River library is a blatant insult to the taxpayers who have waited far too long for fair investment in their community,” Sines said.
Accusation of Misguided Priorities
Klausmeier announced Friday morning that she was ending the pursuit of the Middle River branch, citing concerns over “tens of millions” in long-term lease, maintenance, and staffing costs that could force future tax increases.
Sines countered that the proposed lease option would have delivered a new branch “at a fraction of the price of a traditional build,” arguing the lease would cost “roughly half what a new library would.”
“This isn’t about affordability. It’s about priorities,” Sines stated. “The truth is simple: if this project were located in another part of the county, it would already be under construction. But because it’s Middle River, once again we are told to wait.”
Demands for Transparency
The civic council also accused the Klausmeier administration of inflating the projected costs of the project.
“This administration has consistently not given the right information on the numbers and cost of this library, continually throwing wild numbers out but when asked for facts to back those numbers they will not provide it,” Sines said.
Sines insisted that the money and the need for the library are both present, criticizing the County Executive for what he sees as a reluctance to act.
“The library lease option is on the table at half the cost of new construction. The money is there. The need is there. What’s missing is a County Executive willing to make decisions!” Sines stated. “Every answer can’t be to kick it to the Next County Executive, she has the job and the responsibility to do that job.”
Councilman David Marks calls decision ‘giant middle finger’
Councilman David Marks on Friday issued the following statement:
Kathy Klausmeier’s Friday morning decision is a giant middle finger to the Middle River community. The Baltimore County Council is being asked to subsidize development by the hundreds of millions of dollars elsewhere, but now the County Executive pretends to pinch pennies when it comes to Middle River. This is yet another profound disappointment from this administration.
I look forward to working with a stronger, friendlier County Executive and the new Council representative to get this done. The Eastside deserves better.
Fighter jets will no longer fly out of Martin State Airport in Middle River. The MD National Guard unit will transition to cybersecurity.MIDDLE RIVER, MD (Sept. 23, 2025) — Governor Wes Moore today joined the Maryland Air National Guard for the inactivation ceremony for the A-10C Thunderbolt II flying mission at Warfield Air National Guard Base at Martin State Airport. To mark the end of Maryland’s flying mission, Governor Moore honored and celebrated Maryland’s 104th Fighter Squadron—one of the nation’...
MIDDLE RIVER, MD (Sept. 23, 2025) — Governor Wes Moore today joined the Maryland Air National Guard for the inactivation ceremony for the A-10C Thunderbolt II flying mission at Warfield Air National Guard Base at Martin State Airport. To mark the end of Maryland’s flying mission, Governor Moore honored and celebrated Maryland’s 104th Fighter Squadron—one of the nation’s oldest Air National Guard flying units—as they transition to serve the state’s cyber mission.
“Today, we honor over a century of Airmen who raised their hands to wear the uniform, and pay tribute to an incredible aircraft that has helped to write our nation’s history,” said Gov. Moore. “Nobody understands the importance of these aircraft better than the men and women of the 175th Wing, who bear the standard for the path forward: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence In All We Do. And while I never had the honor of deploying our A-10s as governor, I am very proud to be the governor who is able to say: job well done.”
The governor was joined by Major General Janeen L. Birckhead, adjutant general for Maryland, and Brigadier General Drew Dougherty, assistant general for Air for the ceremony, which formally inactivated the 175th Operations Group, the 175th Maintenance Group, and all subordinate units before the final two aircraft departed as part of the U.S. Air Force divestment.
The 175th Operations Group and 175th Maintenance Group participated in nine combat deployments over 25 years, most recently supporting Operations Inherent Resolve, Spartan Shield, and Poseidon Archer in 2024. Since 2013, both groups have supported five A-10 mobilizations, including to Estonia through the National Guard Bureau’s State Partnership Program and many other European NATO nations to deter Russian aggression.
“For more than a century, the 104th Fighter Squadron has carried the colors of Baltimore and the spirit of our state into the skies,” said Lt. Gov. Aruna K. Miller. “As their flying mission retires, we honor their legacy of service and look ahead with pride as the 175th Wing leads Maryland into a new era of cyber defense.”
“The 175th Wing of Maryland’s Air National Guard has had a proud history of protecting our national security,” said U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen. “Throughout their years of flying the Maryland-built A-10 Warthog, the dedicated citizen-soldiers of the 175th wing have always answered the call to keep Americans safe at home and support combat operations abroad. We are grateful that they have always had our backs, and we will continue to have theirs as we look to the future.”
“I am so proud to honor and congratulate the Airmen of the 175th Operations Group, the 175th Maintenance Group, and all subordinate units as the final A-10s depart from Maryland today,” said U.S. Senator Angela Alsobrooks. “These Airmen have given so much in service to our country, and we have an obligation to do more than just thank and celebrate them. I will always fight to protect our veterans and service members. It’s as much a duty as it is a privilege.”
“Since 1921, the Maryland Air National Guard has served our state and country with grit, honor, and dedication,” said Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth. “Fondly referred to as the Fightin' O's, the 175th Wing was no exception – with the 104th Fighter Squadron completing nine combat deployments in the past 20 years. Thank you to the Airmen and women who answered the call to serve our nation at home and abroad. I look forward to continuing to support the critical work of the Maryland National Guard on the House Armed Services Committee.”
“Today we honor not an aircraft, but the dedicated and incredibly skilled men and women who have flown and maintained the A-10C for more than a century at Martin State,” said Congressman Johnny Olszewski. “We are grateful for their service, which has consistently been ranked among the best in the nation. I am looking forward to supporting all future missions that will continue the 175th Wing’s legacy of service and patriotism.”
During the ceremony, Colonel Chris Palmer, commander of the 175th Operations Group, and Colonel Jason Burns, commander of the 175th Maintenance Group, participated in the furling and traditional casing of the groups’ guidons as a symbolic farewell to the units’ lineage and heritage.
“Thank you to every Airman who has worn these patches, turned wrenches on these jets, flown these missions, and given so much of themselves to this noble calling,” said Maryland Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Drew E. Dougherty, Assistant Adjutant General – Air. “You will always be part of the proud history of the Maryland Air National Guard, these two outstanding groups, and you will always carry on our proud and distinguished legacy.”
In Fiscal Year 2023, the 175th Maintenance Group achieved a 71.3% mission-capable rate, which was higher than the Air Force-wide average across all fighter types. The National Guard Association of the United States also recognized Maryland last month as the top flying unit in the entire Air National Guard—awarding the Spaatz Trophy to Maryland at their annual conference.
The A-10 is one of the most beloved aircraft in the U.S. Air Force's history, and is well-known for its close air support on the battlefield—protecting U.S. service members and friendly forces with its 30mm GAU-8 cannon and other munitions. The U.S. Air Force last year announced a plan for the Maryland Air National Guard to divest all the A-10s assigned to the 104th Fighter Squadron by the end of this fiscal year. The last two A-10s will be transferred to the Michigan Air National Guard this week.
“When we walk away today, I want you to remember just one critical idea,” said Maryland Army National Guard Maj. Gen. Janeen L. Birckhead, Adjutant General of Maryland. “Those words about mission readiness, combat reputation, contributions in war and peace; those words do not describe the machine that is the A-10. They describe the Airmen and women, the pilots, the comm techs, the fuel handlers, the maintainers. You created the 175th Wing’s reputation. You are the heart of the A-10 legacy.”
This press release was produced by the Office of Gov. Wes Moore. The views expressed here are the author’s own.
MIDDLE RIVER, MD—Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier announced Friday that the county is ending negotiations for a new Baltimore County Public Library branch in Middle River, citing concerns over long-term financial commitments and the risk of future tax increases.Klausmeier, who took office in January, said the decision was a reflection of her commitment to stabilize the county’s budget and avoid large, multi-decade financial burdens in an uncertain fiscal climate.“A lease agreement for a significant ...
MIDDLE RIVER, MD—Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier announced Friday that the county is ending negotiations for a new Baltimore County Public Library branch in Middle River, citing concerns over long-term financial commitments and the risk of future tax increases.
Klausmeier, who took office in January, said the decision was a reflection of her commitment to stabilize the county’s budget and avoid large, multi-decade financial burdens in an uncertain fiscal climate.
“A lease agreement for a significant project like this proposed library would add tens of millions in unanticipated costs for lease payments, equipment, and maintenance over the next several decades,” Klausmeier said in a statement. The costs do not account for the millions in annual staffing needed to support a brand-new branch.
Fiscal Responsibility Cited
The county executive emphasized her goal is not only to avoid raising taxes during her term but also to prevent financial obligations that could “force future county executives to raise taxes.”
Klausmeier noted that the new annual costs would “elevate the risk that tax increases would be needed to honor a contractual commitment” if revenue growth is lower than expected—a risk she said is growing following news of lower-than-anticipated state revenues for the coming fiscal year.
The proposed location, which was planned in collaboration with St. John Properties, was intended for the Greenleigh area of Middle River. Klausmeier thanked the developer for its engagement and interest in expanding library resources.
Prioritizing Existing Projects
Klausmeier also stated that the Middle River proposal would bypass the “much-needed replacement” of the Essex and Lansdowne library branches, as well as the combined Randallstown library and recreation center, projects that have been in preliminary phases for years.
The county executive was quick to point out that the decision does not diminish her administration’s resolve to invest in public libraries when it is fiscally responsible.
“Just this week, we kicked off a $22 million renovation project at the Woodlawn Library Branch that was years in the making,” Klausmeier said. She also highlighted prior investments including major renovations at the Catonsville and White Marsh branches.
Middle River residents are encouraged to utilize the system’s existing 19 branches. The Essex and White Marsh branches are approximately five miles from the proposed Greenleigh site, with the Perry Hall branch about six miles away.
“While a new library branch is an attractive amenity, my commitment to our residents in taking this office was to stabilize our budget and avoid the risk of present or future tax increases, and I plan on honoring that commitment,” Klausmeier concluded.
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