A Year of Triumph and Tragedy in Maryland

At the end of the year we humans like to look back at where we've been and what has happened in our lives. We see that 2007 was a year of highs and lows – as most years are – and that despite all we've seen, there is hope for a better year in 2008.  

This past year we learned more about the coming of BRAC to our part of Maryland, and what that will mean for jobs, businesses, and housing.  

Back in January, Purple Passion was sweeping the state and it looked as if the Baltimore Ravens had a real shot at making it to the Super Bowl. At this end of the year, well, let's just say that only the die-hard fans have anything good to say about the team. As they say, "wait until next year!"  

Throughout the year we talked about the many activities that you'll find in the areas of Bowie, Clinton, and Annapolis. No matter what your interest or age, there are always events to delight your eyes, ears, and minds. From New Year's First Night celebrations, to Fourth of July fireworks, to Navy football, and winter holiday celebrations, there's something for everyone.  

We also celebrated some special people along the way. Students at Heather Hills Elementary learned what it takes to be an entrepreneur, and several thought that owning their own business would be a great plan for the future. Bowie native Richard Arnold aimed even higher, and will fly on the Space Shuttle Discovery to the International Space Station in the fall of 2008. Bowie's Mayor G. Frederick Robinson won an overwhelming victory in fall elections, continuing in office for his fifth term. And Nevasha Nobel of Bowie was selected as one of only 100 students nationwide who will go to Disney World in early 2008 to participate in Disney's Dreamers Academy.  

With all the highs, there were lows as well, and one of the saddest was the death of Brian Gray, a University of Maryland junior. Brian was an exceptional young man and will be greatly missed.  

And of course we talked about real estate. How to keep your house in good shape, how to prepare it to sell, how a real estate agent can save you money even when buying a newly constructed home, what to expect through the entire sales process, and much more.  

What can we expect next year? We know there will be more ups and downs. For you, we hope that you have mostly good times, health and happiness.  

From all of us on the "Special" Ed Haraway Team…Happy New Year and may 2008 bring all you dream of! Should those dreams include a new home, we hope you'll remember us.