For Eric Stein, owner of DeCanter Fine Wines in Columbia, winning the Howard County Chamber of Commerce 2006 Small Business of the Year Award caps a community commitment he has always pursued.
“It?s about being involved in the community,” Stein said. “Howard County is a small community, and a lot of people know one another.”
His key to success is to have a well-informed staff not only familiar with the variety of wines on the market but also able to sell the wines.
“You need people-oriented staff. People who have good communication skills and are able to listen to what people are asking for,” Stein said.
DeCanter Fine Wines was one of several Howard County businesses and leaders honored. They include Tai Sophia Institute for Healing Arts as 2006 Large Business of the Year Award, El Nayar Mexican Restaurant as 2006 Emerging Success Award and four business leaders ? Mary Ellen Duncan, of Howard County Community College, Ron Eyre, of Eyre Bus & Travel, Bill Munn, of BGE Home, and Ed Waddell, of Cardoni Waddell, a public accounting firm.
“This is our way of recognizing people who have excelled in their own business and also believe in giving back to the community,” said Pamela Klar, president of the Howard County Chamber of Commerce.
Baltimore County Chamber
The Baltimore County Chamber of Commerce recently announced its two newest inductees to the chamber?s Business Hall of Fame.
» Attorney RoberCannon, a partner with the Baltimore office of the law firm Saul Ewing. Cannon is a part of the law firm?s real estate department. He also serves as general counsel to the Maryland Chamber of Commerce.
» Robert Caret, president of Towson University. Caret was a former faculty member, dean, executive vice president and provost of Towson University before becoming its 12th president in 2003.
“Both Mr. Cannon and Dr. Caret are well-known throughout the Baltimore region for their tremendous leadership, forward thinking and community involvement,” stated Laura Borgerding, chairman of the Baltimore County Chamber of Commerce.
An induction ceremony and dinner is scheduled for Nov. 9 at the Sheraton Baltimore North Hotel in Towson.
