Chamber to hold ribbon-cutting event for Curves center

The West Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce will conduct a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 1 p.m. today for the Curves Weight Loss Center, 1215 Annapolis Road, Odenton.

The aerobic exercise and weight training franchise has several other locations in Maryland.

The West Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce's mission is to promote business and a healthy economic environment in the area. This year the Chamber of Commerce celebrates its 40th year of supporting businesses and the community in West Anne Arundel County.

Nonprofit builder named HUD developer of the year

Homes for America, an Annapolis nonprofit housing development organization, was recently selected by the Maryland Department of Housing and Urban Development as the Housing Developer of the Year. The award is given to a developer that best exemplifies the type of affordable housing encouraged by the state, including Smart Growth practices.

Homes for America has developed more than 10 affordable rental housing communities totaling more than 1,000 units in Maryland, including four rental developments in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County. Homes for America also operates homeownership programs in Annapolis and the county.

Trudy McFall, chairwoman of Homes for America, is also the chairwoman of the Housing Authority of the City of Annapolis and has served as the head of the Homeownership/Affordable Housing Transition Team for Mayor Ellen O. Moyer. Nancy Rase is the president of Homes for America.

Moyer presented a Crowning Achievement Citation to Homes for America at a recent city council meeting in recognition of the state award.

Providence Center to hold Gathering of Greens event

Providence Center will celebrate its annual Gathering of the Greens event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 7, at the center, 370 Shore Acres Road, Arnold.

Buyers will find a selection of fresh-cut Christmas trees, poinsettias, fresh greens, wreaths and garlands. Home-baked goods, handcrafted gifts for the craft shops will be sold. Providence Art Institute will exhibit artwork and have items available for purchase.

All proceeds benefit the Providence Center, a nonprofit corporation that provides employment, vocational, recreational, retirement, medical day care, and transportation services to more than 450 individuals each day. The center operates seven sites throughout Anne Arundel County and is governed by a volunteer board of directors. Information: 410-315-8303.

Property transactions

Rita's Italian Ice has leased 1,540 square feet at the Collins Building in Odenton. Stuart Title of A.J. Properties Inc. represented the tenant and the landlord in the transaction. Opening is scheduled for March.

Reliable Telecommunications Services Inc. has leased 900 square feet at the Collins Building in Odenton.

A.J. Properties Inc. has been retained to lease The Depot at Odenton Station, a 25,000- square-foot retail center being planned for the town center area of Odenton. Occupancy is scheduled for the last quarter of next year. A food center featuring outdoor seating is also planned.

Calendar

Security Issues: The World Trade Center Institute has assembled a panel of distinguished speakers to discuss "Transportation Security and International Trade" from 7:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Dec. 11, at the Maryland Historical Electronics Museum in Linthicum. Tickets are $60 for members and $75 for nonmembers. 410-576-0022.