Howard County Association of REALTORS^®
President's Message
from Patty Smallwood
June 2003

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HCAR Membership Tops 1,000 Member Mark
We are pleased to report that HCAR membership has topped 1,000 members. This has not happened since the early 1990s. We are planning to schedule a New Member Orientation session in July. Stay tuned for more details...and welcome to our new members!

Just in from MAR: Safety Tip for Sellers
Agents, please remind your sellers to safeguard valuables--including prescription drugs--these should be out of sight in a safe place, just like any jewelry or cash.

Please do not loan your SUPRA key to anyone--it is against the rules and regulations for its use. If you witness this practice, please report it to your broker/manager. The person loaning out his/her key will be fined and the key may be TURNED OFF. This policy will be strictly enforced by SUPRA and Mid-Atlantic Realty Services.

June is National Homeownership Month!
President George W. Bush has declared June as National Homeownership Month. NAR President Cathy Whatley has noted that the word "home" represents many things: Family, security, comfort and so much more. And when people say "this is my home," you can sense the pride that comes from making such a great investment and the excitement from owning a home where they will create lasting memories. REALTORS^®are dedicated to helping create and maintain healthy, vibrant communities. Homeowners strengthen their neighborhoods as they sink down roots, take care of their home investment, participate in local government and schools and work to make their communities better places to live. As we celebrate National Homeownership Month, REALTORS^® can build stronger communities as they help millions of Americans realize their dream of saying, "This is my home."

Contribute To RPAC
HCAR is closing in on our goal for RPAC fundraising. Help us celebrate our victory in turning back the proposed 50% increase in the transfer tax by contributing to RPAC. The RPAC Trustees supported our battle and spent RPAC funds to assist us. Donations in any amount are gladly accepted. Make your checks payable to RPAC and send them to MAR at 2594 Riva Road in Annapolis, MD 21401 and mention that you are a HCAR member!

BBQ Bash
The HCAR Social Committee is serving up a BBQ Bash on July 18 at Nixon's Farm, off of Route 32. Join us by purchasing a ticket for $35. This entitles you to food, drink, music and fun! Bring your appetite for fried chicken, hot dogs, salads, desserts and North Carolina style ribs! Contact Janet Henry at 410.730.7400.

Looking For Leaders
HCAR is looking for leaders! The Nominating Committee has begun its search for nominees for an open director position on its board. If you are interested, please call Anne Cooke at 410.740.7100 for more information.

Plan To Join Us For Some Golf/Tennis/Volleyball and a Picnic On
September 15
The Annual Golf Outing/Picnic is scheduled for September 15 at Turf Valley this year and will include Tennis and Volleyball tournaments as well as some other exciting surprises. Contact Julia Mattis for more details at 410.418.4555.