Capturing Moments: A new exhibit with Dundalk Photographer Jamie-Leigh Bissett
In a world filled with countless photographs, it takes a unique perspective to stand out. Photographer Jamie-Leigh Bissett brings a refreshing and offbeat approach to her art, capturing both people and landscapes in a way that reflects their true essence. Jamie-Leigh's artistic roots can be traced back to her childhood. Growing up in a family that valued various artistic pursuits, she was exposed to a diverse range of creative outlets. [...]
“Over the Rainbow” A Mixed Medium Art Exhibit with Barbara Bustard
Barbara Bustard's creations are a reflection of her passion for bright colors, spreading joy, and embracing diversity. Her upcoming exhibition this June at the Gallery @ the Forge is titled "Over the Rainbow" and will run from June 8-July 13. Barbara Bustard's journey as an artist is intertwined with a beautiful love story. She met her partner, Judith, at church, and over time, their friendship blossomed into something more. On [...]
DHVM Gets Financial Counseling at Dundalk Renaissance
Since 2019 Dundalk Renaissance has partnered with Dundalk High School’s Interactive Media Productions program. The Career and Technology completer produces a monthly news program for BCPS TV called, “Dundalk High Video Magazine (DHVM).” We were excited to reach students about our community events and ways we might be able to help them or their families. “We love to be involved in the community,” Meghan Sweeney, marketing manager at Dundalk Renaissance [...]
New In 2023
This year, Dundalk Renaissance is offering $10,000 Home Buyer Grants; free financial fitness, tenant and landlord rights and foreclosure workshops; business development counseling and free state and federal tax intake to qualifying households. Home Buyer Grants and Classes Ten $10,000 home buyer grants will be available to future Dundalk home owners starting January 1, 2023. The five year-forgivable loan is a continuation of our existing Dundalk-wide home buyer grant program [...]
Meet Our New Program Manager: Valerie Rivera-Maldonado
Meet Valerie Rivera-Maldonado, Dundalk Renaissance’s new program manager. Valerie joined our team at the end of 2022. As a native Puerto Rican professional, she has dedicated over six years of her career to facilitate access to services among Hispanic communities in the non-profit and government sectors. In Maryland, she worked at Esperanza Center and most recently at Leadership Howard County, working collaboratively in the development of initiatives that serve diverse [...]
Meet Jennifer Smutek, photographer of “Beautiful Dundalk” exhibit in the Forge
Jennifer Smutek is a Dundalk local whose passion for art started as a child. “My favorite toy as a child was a pretend polaroid camera; and, by the time I was 8, I knew I wanted to be a professional photographer,” Jennifer said. Her father, Mike, purchased her toy camera and then a real camera for her to learn on. Her childhood passion led her to seriously pursue the craft [...]
New Team Member: Stevie Mosley, Community Engagement Coordinator
We’re excited to welcome Stevie Mosley to our team. Stevie will be out in the community as our community engagement coordinator. You’re likely to see him at tabling events or around the neighborhoods helping Dundalk’s neighborhood associations reach their residents. Stevie is a people person and can’t wait to help the Dundalk community. “I look forward to meeting new people with the potential of learning from them in return,” Stevie [...]
New Team Member: Lisa Wright, Housing Counselor
We’re excited to welcome Lisa Wright to our team as our new housing counselor. Lisa will assist Sonya Dease, our housing and financial counselor, in our housing initiatives work. She will be available for one-on-one counseling; help manage our Dundalk-wide grant program and assist in our home buyer education classes. When asked why she wanted to join our team, Lisa said “I loved the Dundalk Renaissance mission: Mobilizing people to [...]
“View Through My Lens” Gallery Opening @ the Forge
Barbara Bustard is a local artist who attended Dundalk Elementary School, Dundalk Middle School, Dundalk High School. She received an AA degree from CCBC Dundalk and is a graduate of Notre Dame University of Maryland with a BA Degree in Religious Studies and Art. “I may not have identified myself as an artist, but I have been an artist as long as I can remember. As a child, I wrote [...]
Staff Spotlight: Tasha Gresham-James, Executive Director
Tasha Gresham-James started at Dundalk Renaissance as an administrative assistant nearly eight years ago. She moved on to become our housing initiatives manager and, eventually, our executive director. "One of my favorite parts of working at Dundalk Renaissance is our connection to the community and to people. Some days you don't see how much we positively impact lives and other days you see how our help has changed someone's life." She said. She [...]
Jean Kettell Dance Studio, Milestone Winner
Jean Kettell Dance Studio was founded by Jean Kettell on her parent’s porch after a May Day celebration at Edgemere Elementary school. Several of her classmates marveled at Jean’s grace and dance ability. They begged her to teach them how to dance. Jean’s father worked two jobs and her mother also worked, but managed to take her two daughters to weekly dance lessons by street car and two buses. “In [...]
J.D. Urbach, Milestone Award Winner
J.D. Urbach is a former Dundalk resident and lifelong volunteer whose work with the Our Lady of Hope/St. Luke School, the Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) and the Boy Scouts of America is why he is one of this year’s Milestone Award winners. He joined the Cub Scouts in 1983 after a flier was distributed in his 2nd grade class at Bear Creek Elementary. He’s been registered in the [...]
Then and Again, Milestone Award Winner
Then and Again Secondhand Store, located at 79 Shipping Place, is receiving the Milestone Award for their dedication and commitment to the community. Since they opened three years ago, they've forged partnerships with the Family Crisis Center and Soup for the Soul and work to create an affordable shopping experience for clients of all price ranges. "The Historic Dundalk Town Center was a good spot for us because it [...]
Arkia Wade, Milestone Award Winner
Most of us think about volunteering in our community to “give back” to those who laid a foundation for our personal growth, cultural enrichment and the fun of meeting new people. To some it is just an aspiration but for Arkia Wade it is an inspiration. Are you familiar with any of the following organizations? A. Turner Station Conservation Teams B. Turner Station Girl Scouts C. Baltimore County Arts Guild [...]
George Fotis, Owner of Drug City Pharmacy and Cornerstone Award Winner
George Fotis is receiving the Cornerstone Award for his volunteer work and willingness to help the Dundalk Community whenever and wherever needed. He has served on various community boards including the Dundalk Renaissance Committee, Dundalk Chamber of Commerce and Our Lady of Hope/St. Luke's School Board. As a pharmacist, he focused on making his patients better and now as a business owner he believes the store has a duty to [...]
Wise Avenue Volunteer Fire Company, Cornerstone Award Winner
Wise Avenue Volunteer Fire Company is celebrating their 80th year serving the community. Wise Avenue Volunteer Fire Company was created to address the need for fire protection in the neighborhoods of Inverness and Rosewald Beach. Founded in 1942 during WWII when there was a concern that an attack on Bethlehem Steel from enemy forces could lead to fires and pandemonium in the surrounding neighborhoods. “In 80 years a lot has changed and in some aspects nothing’s changed.” Bob Frances, Wise Avenue’s public information officer, said. “We [...]
Celebrating 20 Years; First In-person Milestone Awards in Two years; Farewell to Longtime Executive Director
This year’s Milestone Award Ceremony will be held on May 26, 2022 (6pm) at Sparrows Point Country Club. We have a lot to celebrate this year, including our first in-person Milestone Award Ceremony in two years and 20 years of building a better Dundalk. In 20 years, we’ve provided 2,700 people with financial counseling, tax preparation help and housing resources; renovated 529 homes; hosted 314 events engaging 35,025 people; invested [...]
Congratulations and Farewell to Executive Director Amy Menzer
Executive Director Amy Menzer Departing After 15 Years of Leadership; Deputy Director Tasha Gresham-James will Serve as Interim Executive Director After more than 15 years, Executive Director Amy Menzer is moving on. Dundalk, MD--Under Amy’s leadership, Dundalk Renaissance has established programs supporting housing renovations, neighborhood marketing, main street business development, community engagement, and the most recent addition, financial counseling. She guided the board of directors through 4 Strategic Planning processes [...]
Dundalk Renaissance is a United Way Change Maker Challenge Grant Recipient
We’re so excited to announce that we are the recipient of a $10,000 grant from United Way through their Change Maker Challenge. “We are so grateful to have been selected as one of the top 10 finalists in Baltimore County by United Way,” Executive Director, Amy Menzer said. Our housing and financial counselor, Sonya Dease, pitched a new program that would help Dundalk families facing eviction stay in their [...]
Meet the Forge’s Newest Business Incubation Tenant: Potluck Collaborative
Potluck Collaborative was founded in 2020 by sisters Jessica and Valerie Kessler. Potluck Collaborative sells a variety of handmade items including earrings, scarves, keychains, and DIY craft kits in a range of prices for a variety of ages. When they’re not at Potluck Collaborative the sisters are heavily engaged with their Girl Scout Troops—which is where they got the idea for Potluck Collaborative. COVID 19 changed the way the Kesslers engaged with [...]
From Part Time Administrative Assistant to Deputy Director, Tasha Gresham-James celebrates 7 years with Dundalk Renaissance
From Part Time Administrative Assistant to Deputy Director, Tasha Gresham-James celebrates 7 years with Dundalk Renaissance. Tasha Gresham-James started with us part time in July of 2014 as a part time administrative assistant while her two young kids were in school. She was looking for something simple after her time working in the mayor’s office in Baltimore City under Sheila Dixon and Stephanie Rawlings-Blake. While working in the mayor's office, Tasha [...]
Little Free Libraries Have Landed!
Hey Dundalk! Little Free Libraries are popping in your neighborhood and favorite Dundalk establishments. Keep your eyes peeled for 11 Little Free Libraries that have been installed around town, including places like Joanna’s Café, Little Crystal Bijoux and Sollers Point Multi Purpose Center. Thanks to our wonderful neighbors, we have libraries in DunLogan, Bear Creek, Inverness, St. Helena, Old Dundalk, Norwood and Turner Station. “I was excited to connect with my neighbors in a new way! Books [...]
Cornerstone Winner: Jimmy’s Famous Seafood
We’re excited to honor Jimmy’s Famous Seafood as a Cornerstone winner for Dundalk Renaissance’s 2021 Milestone Awards Ceremony. In a year that drastically changed the way restaurants could do business and required an unprecedented amount of flexibility, Jimmy’s Famous Seafood continued to thrive as a Dundalk staple. Their dexterity during this difficult time and delicious crab cakes aren’t the only reason why we’ve chosen to honor them this year. Jimmy’s [...]
Cornerstone Winner: Community Assistance Network
Community Assistance Network (CAN) has been helping families and individuals in Baltimore County for over 55 years. During the pandemic CAN has been working tirelessly to continue people with the resources they need most like food, shelter, and a safe place for students to access remote schooling, which is why they are our 2021 Cornerstone winner this year. The pandemic increased a need for food and other services. CAN was [...]
Milestone Winner Lindsay Banfill
Lindsay Banfill opened Joanna’s Café in July of 2019, just eight months before the pandemic hit. Joanna’s Café had a promising start, but the shut downs gave Lindsay pause. Suddenly Lindsay was struggling to find essential items for her business like to go cups. It was a frustrating experience for Lindsay, who prior to the shutdown had a steady stream of take-out customers. Ordering to go cups and other items [...]
Milestone Winner Najma Jamaludeen
Najma Jamaludeen dreamed of opening her own shop with made to order natural body care products and space that would reflect her brand—affordable, but elegant and ideally a space with an ornate ceiling. Najma opened Pink Walnut Body Care Bistro as the world was shutting down for COVID 19, but the pandemic didn’t deter her. Najma used the slower paced start of her business to get a website up and running and [...]
Milestone Winner Soup for the Soul
What started as a weekly, family-style meal at St. Rita’s Church grew into a multifaceted nonprofit organization helping those in need get back on their feet. Founded in 1982 by the Haines family as St. Rita’s Supper Table, Soup for the Soul provides mental health resources, work clothes, ministry outreach, and weekly meals. The Haines family legacy of openness and community survived several moves and organizational changes. Soup for the Soul is [...]
Milestone Winner Seiko Dixon
Seiko Dixon’s life is one of service. Seiko enlisted in the Army after high school graduation. From there she became an in-home nurse—which was how she connected with an old elementary school flame. John Dixon needed a full time care taker for his grandmother who was battling cancer. Seiko said yes and moved in with John’s mother making sure she had everything she needed. John and Seiko later married. The couple [...]
Dundalk Renaissance awarded $775,000 to Invest in Dundalk
Dundalk Renaissance awarded $775,000 to Invest in Dundalk This month, Dundalk Renaissance was awarded $775,000 to invest in Dundalk by the State of Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development through their Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative. This program seeks to improve quality of life and encourage community stability by investing strategically in housing, neighborhoods, and small business development. “We are deeply grateful for the State’s ongoing investment in [...]
A Homeowner After 40+ Years Living in Dundalk
Even at 69, Carolin was determined to have a place to call home. She came to Dundalk back in 1972 and bought a her home last summer. The house she chose and purchased was featured at the last Dundalk Housing Fair and Neighborhood Tours, and Caroline says, “I fell in love with it. The rooms are cozy; there’s a finished basement and two bathrooms!” It is a complete renovation, and thanks to a seller contribution and a $5000 home [...]
It Started With a Flier
Pauline Tiako, a former resident of New Carrolton (a few minutes from DC) was in search of a place she could call home. Wanting to get away from the busy streets and cold neighbors, she explored areas that were safe and convenient for her family. During her search, she received a flier for Dundalk Renaissance Corporation’s September 2014 Dundalk Housing Fair and Neighborhood Tours. Pauline attended the housing fair and gathered information she felt was useful but had reservations about qualifying for a mortgage. Tyler Banks, a vendor at the fair and CEO of Charm City Builders, had some encouraging words, “You’d be surprised. You [...]
Meet our First Golden Key Grantee
Jim Petry is a Trailblazer! Jim purchased his row home in North Point Village last December, and his settlement was the very first to include our $5,000 Golden Key Grant. Working with his real estate agent, Donna Bertoni of RE/MAX Components in Dundalk, and Jen Wassmann, our DRC Housing Projects Coordinator, they diligently navigated the grant process that was new to all of them, since the $5K Golden Key Grant was offered for the first time at the Dundalk Housing Fair and [...]
A Stress Free Rennovation for the Erickson’s
The Erickson’s were in need of a new kitchen. Maxine says, “We’ve been talking about a kitchen update for many years but it never seemed to be the right time, financially.” That was until they learned about DRC’s the Vibrant Neighborhoods Renovation Loan (home improvement loan). What they got was a makeover! “I can’t thank the DRC enough for helping us to finally make our tired, out-of-date kitchen, now one I love to be in. [...]
Milestone Awards: Celebrating Dundalk’s Non Medical COVID 19 Heroes
Our Milestone celebration typically honors individuals, organizations, groups, and nonprofits doing exceptional work to make Dundalk a better place. Late 2020 and early 2021, we asked Dundalk to tell us the stories of the COVID heroes in their lives. While the pandemic has changed how we will celebrate this year’s honorees, we’re excited to announce this year’s 2021 Milestone and Cornerstone awardees! Due to the exceptional community service and outreach performed by Community Assistance Network (CAN) and the [...]
Dundalk Cosmetic & Family Dental Center
Dentist Address: 5 Shipping Place Phone: (410) 285-6380 Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-6pm; Closed on weekends More Info
$244,000 in COVID 19 Recovery Funds for the Historic Dundalk Town Center
$244,000 in COVID 19 Recovery Funds for the Historic Dundalk Town Center Dundalk Renaissance will be distributing $244,000 in COVID 19 recovery funds to businesses in the Historic Dundalk Town Center (HDTC) by June 30, 2021 thanks to the State of Maryland’s $7 million Maryland Strong Economic Recovery Initiative (MD SERI) aimed at helping Maryland Main Streets survive the economic effects of COVID 19. More than 5,000 businesses state-wide will be eligible for support from their local Main Street program. Businesses in the HDTC can apply for grant funding to pay for outstanding business expenses incurred [...]
Center Place Learning Center
Early childhood education Address: 5 Center Place Phone: (410) 288-2700 Hours: Monday-Friday 7am-6pm More Info
Richard Anderson: Allstate Insurance
Insurance Address: 7a Shipping Place Phone: (410) 284-7770 Hours: Monday 9am-5pm, Tuesday 9am-6pm, Wednesday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-12pm More Info
Dundalk-Patapsco Neck Historical Society and Museum
Museum and gifts Address: 4 Center Place Phone: (410) 284-2331 Hours: Temporarily closed due to COVID 19 More Info
DaVita Dundalk Dialysis
Dialysis treatment Address: 14 Commerce Place Phone: (866) 544-6741 Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 5am-7pm More Info
Living With Grace Fund
Charity organization Address: 5 Center Place Phone: (410) 262-1802 More Info
Zerwitz and Zerwitz
Law services Address: 38 S Dundalk Ave Phone: (410) 288-9303 Hours: By appointment
Catholic Charities
Charity organization Address: 2 N Dundalk Ave Phone: (667) 600-3680 More Info
Subway
Sandwiches Address: 19 Shipping Place Phone: (410) 282-2796 Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-9pm, Saturday-Sunday 9am-8pm More Info
The Forge
WiFi, printing, workshops and more Address: 11 Center Place Phone: (410) 282-0261 ext 103 Hours: By appointment More Info
Patapsco Masonic Lodge
Freemasons Address: 2 Trading Place Phone: (410) 284-6596
PRP Learning Center-Baltimore
Mental healthcare provider Address: 47 Shipping Place Phone: (410) 282-4040 More Info
Y Aquatic Center
Swimming classes, lessons and lap pool Address: 120 Trading Place Phone: (410) 285-7616 Hours: Monday-Friday 7am-9pm, Saturday 8am-6pm and Sunday 12pm-5pm More Info
Walgreens
Household items, pharmacy, cosmetics and more. Address: 29 Shipping Place Phone: (410) 282-0020 Hours: Monday-Sunday 8am-10pm More Info
Family Dollar
Food, cleaning supplies and other household items Address: 1 Shipping Place Phone: (443) 376-0046 Hours: Monday-Saturday 8am-8pm, Sunday 8am-8pm More Info
NettMix Custom Vapes
Vape and e-cigarette products Address: 15 Center Place Phone: (410) 282-8200 Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday 10am-5pm More Info
United States Postal Service
Mailing and shipping services. Address: 44 Shipping Place Phone: (800) 275-8777 Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-1pm and 2pm-5pm; Saturday 9am-1pm More Info
Addiction Treatment of Maryland
Addiction recovery programming Address: 9 Center Place Phone: (443) 376-6800 Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm More Info
Green Sedan
Taxi service Address: 1 Center Place Phone: (410) 288-3333 Hours: 24 hours/seven days a week
Dundalk Laundry
Self service laundromat Address: 12 Commerce St
Dr. Savinder Julka
Specializes in internal medicine Address: 2 Market Place Phone: (410) 284-1800 Hours: By Appointment
Dr. Albert Shoumer, DMP
Podiatry Specialist Address: 71 Shipping Place Phone: (410) 282-6434 Hours: By appointment
Richard Lynas, Esq.
Legal services Address: 2 Market Pl # 201 Phone: 410) 288-1099
Duckpond Bar
local bar Address: 10 N Dundalk Ave Phone: (410) 285-0135 More Info
Greater Dundalk Chamber of Commerce
Dundalk area chamber of commerce Address: 4 North Center Place Phone: (410) 284-3700 Hours: Sunday-Thursday 10am-6pm, Friday and Saturday 8am-6pm More Info
State Farm Insurance
Insurance. Address: 3 Center Place Phone: (410) 288-1300 Hours: Monday 9am-5pm, Tuesday-Thursday 9am-5:30pm, Friday 9am-5pm More Info
Dundalk Pharmacy
Prescription drugs and medical supplies. Address: 40 S Dundalk Ave Phone: (410) 282-8388 Hours: Monday-Friday 9:30am-5:30am and Saturday 9:30am-1:30pm
Caring Hands
Adult daycare facility Address: 49-61 Shipping Place Phone: (410) 285-7060 More Info
Blue Ocean Realty
Retail space and apartments Address: 63 Shipping Place Phone: (410) 220-2632 Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm More Info
Plush Hair Studio
Hair salon Address: 1 Commerce Place Phone: (443) 554-1304 Hours: By appointment
Sew Whye Knot
Custom designs, alterations, sewing classes, and more. Address: 6 Dunmanway Phone: (443) 319-7711 Hours: Tuesday-Friday 11am-6pm and Saturday 11am-2pm More Info
M&T Bank
Banking Address: 39 Shipping Place Phone: (410) 284-8801 Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm More Info
Dundalk Eagle
Dundalk's Local Newspaper Address: 4 North Center Place Phone: (410) 288-6060 Hours: N/A
Safas
Pizza, subs, calzones and more. Address: 28 N Dundalk Ave Phone: (410) 285-7070 Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-12am, Saturday 10am-2am, Sunday 11am-12am More Info
Scoops Cafe
Breakfast, Korean Food and more. Address: 63 Shipping Place Phone: (410) 288-1988 Hours: Monday-Saturday 7am-6pm
Rhoda’s Appliance
Used appliances. Address: 17 Center Place Phone: (443) 503-5930 Hours: Monday-Saturday 9:30am-6:30pm More Info
Royal Farms
Chicken sandwiches, snacks, coffee and more. Address: 18 N Dundalk Ave Phone: (410) 285-8460 Hours: 24 hours/Seven Days a Week More Info
Genesis Grocery Store
Mercado Latino, Latin ingredients and spices. Address: 20 N Dundalk Ave Phone: (410) 288-3522 Hours: Monday-Sunday 8am-10pm
Big Boyz Pizza
Pizza, wraps, wings and more. Address: 3 Shipping Place Phone: (410) 285-5800 Hours: Monday-Thursday 10am-11pm, Friday & Saturday 10am-1am, Sunday 11am-11pm More Info
Fire House Pizza
Pizza, Calzones, wings and more. Address: 81 Shipping Place Phone: (410) 431-0807 Hours: Monday-Sunday 10am-10:30pm More Info
Pink Walnut Body Care Bistro
Handmade and custom order skin and hair care products. Address: 26 N Dundalk Ave Phone: (240) 998-5075 Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 10am-6pm More Info
Then and Again Second Hand Store
Gently used clothes, toys, home decor, furniture and more! Address: 79 Shipping Place Phone: (443) 879-4707 Hours: Sunday-Thursday 10am-6pm, Friday and Saturday 8am-6pm More Info
Laurie’s Candles and Crafts
Handmade country decor and candles. Address: 10 N Dundalk Ave Phone: (410) 262-9214 Hours: Thursday & Friday 11am-6pm, Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday 11am-3pm More Info
Little Crystal Bijoux
Handmade and custom order jewelry, artwork, pillows hats, and masks. Address: 7 Center Place Phone: (443) 470-3150 Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm More Info
Dude’s Snack Attack
Candy, jerky and gifts Address: 75 Shipping Place Phone: (410) 288-6283 Hours: Monday-Thursday 10am-6pm, Friday 10am-3pm and Saturday 10am-5pm More Info
Welcome New Board Members!
Dundalk Renaissance Adds 5 New Volunteers to its Board of Directors! New Officers Elected. Four Longtime Board members Step Down. Dundalk Renaissance is pleased to announce our 2020-21 Board of Directors, who met for the first time via Zoom on September 10, 2020. Joining us as new Board members this month are: Laticia Braxton Owner of the new Plush Hair Studio in the Historic Dundalk Town Center and Director of [...]
ICYMI: Housing Week Recap
Housing Week Day 1 Recap: Credit and Credit Restoration We're recapping all our tips from yesterday's first day of Housing Week--a weeklong tip series aimed to help prospective buyers rest easy knowing they have all the info they need to understand the home buying process. What is credit: Credit Scores are numbers between 300 and 850 that let lenders know your credit worthiness. The [...]
New Financial Counseling Services Available!
Welcome Sonya Dease! Dundalk Renaissance’s Housing and Financial Counselor Dundalk Renaissance is excited to announce the expansion of our work in Housing and Financial Counseling. Our team now includes a full-time, dedicated counselor and financial coach, Sonya Dease. Since 2014 we have assisted hundreds of home buyers throughout their home ownership journey and provided more than 125 households with deferred, forgivable loans to help them buy into Dundalk. Now with Sonya on our team, we [...]
Skin Care Lovers Must Check Out Pink Walnut
Skin Care Aficionados Rejoice! The Historic Dundalk Town Center Has Its Very Own Body Bistro Check it out: 36 N Dundalk Avenue! What started as a natural skin care hobby for Najma Jamaludeen turned in to an online business and now a brick and mortar store in the Historic Dundalk Town Center. After 10 years of an online store and numerous festivals and fairs in Michigan and [...]
Tips from Residential Mortgage Solutions: Selecting the Right Lender for You
Residential Mortgage Solutions has been a proud sponsor of Dundalk Renaissance since 2015. Dundalk Renaissance does not require any prospective grant program participant to use a particular lender or realtor to access our grant. Purchasing a home can feel overwhelming. There are various moving parts and sometimes it seems like they will never fit together. Save yourself the headache and work with a lender who [...]
Gemstone Winner Alyson Marshall
Alyson Marshal enrolled in Sollers Point Technical High School's Pastry Arts program because of her love of baking spurred by quality time baking with her godmother as a young child. "Once I got into my program I saw how much work it is to do catering orders, create menus, plan, or budget. I loved doing catering once I saw the big picture how all the hard [...]
New Roots Planted in Dundalk!
New Roots Planted in Dundalk! Social worker and foster parent Alfredo Santiago rented for six years before finally becoming a homeowner in Turner Station this spring. Mr. Santiago knew he could be a homeowner. He wanted to be one from the moment he moved into his last apartment in Dundalk three years ago. “I told myself the next place I would move into would be my own home.” Mr. Santiago [...]
Milestone Award Winner Will Feuer
If you live in the Dundalk community, it’s safe to say you’ve directly benefited from Will Feuer’s community work. Feuer was Board President at Dundalk Renaissance for 3 years. In his time here, Feuer led the Dundalk Renaissance with integrity but that’s not the only reason he is one of our Milestone Winners. Feuer sits on multiple boards including Dundalk High School PTA, Dundalk Optimist Club, and the Eastern Regional [...]
A Statement of Solidarity
A Statement of Solidarity from Dundalk Renaissance June 5, 2020 Like many of you, the Board and staff of Dundalk Renaissance are deeply disturbed by the murders of unarmed Black men and women and other recent incidents of racism across the country by police officers and private citizens. We join the call of so many people seeking justice and an elimination of personal and structural racism in our society. We [...]
Be a Buyer: Virtual Grant Qualifying Class
April 21 at 6pm Online Register in advance
Food Truck Festival
June 27 Center Place
Milestone Awards Dinner July 23, 2020
July 23 6pm Sparrows Point Country Club Get your tickets
Camp Quarantine: Staying Busy While Social Distancing.
For those of us who are home from school and work filling our days might seem challenging, but we have options: Check out the Library. Both Baltimore County Public Library (BCPL) and Baltimore City’s Enoch Pratt physical locations are closed to the public, but their digital libraries remain open. You can download the Libby App and access books, audiobooks, television shows, magazines, and comics digitally. Customers who use BCPL can [...]
Milestone Awardee Cortney Roberston
Cortney Robertson is the founder and CEO of I Believe In Me, or IBIM for short. IBIM currently operates in both the Turner Station and Woodlawn communities. The organization focuses on empowering girls from ages 8-18, teaching them how to become the best versions of themselves. Robertson’s experience as a mother and daughter of a single parent household inspired her to found IBIM. “Watching my daughter grow into a young [...]
Gemstone Awardee: Sekinat Dosunmu
Sekinat Dosunmu is a senior at Patapsco High School and is an active member of her student government, participates in numerous honor societies and is on the track team. Dosunmu initially started volunteering as part of the requirements for her honor societies and student government association, but she quickly discovered she enjoyed giving back. Dosunmu volunteers regularly at a food pantry that operates every other week out of her [...]
Gemstone Awardee: Jacob Swink
Jacob Swink is a senior at Dundalk High School. He jokes that he’s been an active member of the community since birth—attending church, Scouting meetings, and the 4th of July parade just after he was born. “My parents are involved in the Dundalk community, so it’s been instilled in me to be involved and give back to my community,” Swink said. Swink is involved in the Boy Scouts of America [...]
Milestone Award Winner The Sky is the Limit
The Sky is the Limit is a creative arts program operating out of the North Point Government Center and is a program of Baltimore County Recreation and Parks Office of Therapeutic Recreation. It is an inclusive and barrier free theatre. Their actors are made up of every individual who auditions for the show and perhaps most importantly it’s a space where people of any physical and mental ability can [...]
Why buying a home shouldn’t be your only financial goal
You found your lender, your realtor, and your home. You made it through home inspections and closing. Now you’re officially a homeowner! When the excitement of purchasing your first home wears off you might start to notice some things. A need for furniture in this room, a repair in that room, a fresh coat of paint in the bathroom. The bills start to add up. Budgeting for expenses after you’ve [...]
Zallies Boutique
The first thing you’ll notice about Tiffany Lockemy’s shop, Zallies Boutique, is that it’s the kind of store you want to be in for a while. This time of year it’s warm and holiday scents fill the air. Her shop is named for her two daughters, Allie and Zoey. She jokes that her store is like therapy and bows all in one. A one stop shop for the busy mom [...]
The holidays have arrived in Dundalk!
Tis the season for Christmas wreaths, lights, and gift giving. The Historic Dundalk Town Center is teeming with unique gifts for almost everyone on your shopping list. Best of all purchasing a unique gift from one of the shops in the Historic Dundalk Town Center means you’re supporting a neighbor’s small business. All the shop owners choose to live and work in Dundalk! Shop Laurie’s Candles and Crafts for handmade [...]
Here’s What it Takes to be a Home Owner
Buying a home can be tricky. There’s so much information out there, where do you even start? Dundalk Renaissance always recommends you start with a housing counseling agency to help make sure you can afford to purchase a home and be financially solvent. Our sponsors at Residential Mortgage Solutions put together a quick check list to tick off before you go to your next open house: 1. Do you have [...]
Today is Giving Tuesday and We Need Your Help!
Since 2014 Dundalk Renaissance has helped 178 current homeowners renovate their properties; planted 600 trees; removed 48,000 pounds of trash from streets; hosted 47 main street events; and helped 6 pop up shops transform into 4 permanent stores. In 2019 we awarded $50,000 for improvements to Historic Dundalk Town Center Businesses like Then and Again and Plush Hair Salon (coming soon); we helped 15 senior families age in place through [...]
Made in Dundalk: Laurie’s Candles and Crafts
Born and raised in Dundalk, Laurie Williams has always had a soft spot for the area. “It’s a unique little town. Everybody knows everybody.” It’s that small-town charm that’s brought Laurie’s Candles and Crafts to Dundalk. It didn’t take long for Laurie to become known as the candle lady. What started as a hobby turned into gifts for her friends and then custom orders, before she knew it, she was [...]
Little Crystal Bijoux: Creative. By Design.
Little Crystal Bijoux is an unexpected shop in Dundalk for some, but for owner Laura Quintana it was a no brainer. The store sells handmade jewelry, art, soaps, and body lotions. Ms. Quintana has been a professional artist since she was 17 years old. She sells prints of her color pencils, pen, and paint artwork in her shop, but has learned to enjoy the creative process of jewelry making. “People [...]
Hey Dundalk, We’ve Got a New Neighbor!
Rosedale Federal Savings & Loan Association has opened a branch on 1301 Merritt Boulevard in Dundalk. Their new location offers 24-hour deposit taking ATMs (drive-thru and walk up), a drive-thru teller during business hours, safe deposit boxes, notary services, and 4 residential loan officers. One loan officer, JoAnn Britt, is permanently assigned to the Dundalk Branch. Ms. Britt brings her 20 years of lending experience to the Dundalk community. She [...]
Historic Dundalk Town Center Has a Sweet Side
What started as a kitchen table business grew into a brick and mortar store in historic Dundalk’s Town Center for Anthony Makres. After two years selling taffy, fudge, and jerky at local craft fairs and events, the demand was growing. Makres didn’t have the space to fill orders from his home. “I couldn’t do it from home anymore. I decided I needed a small store,” Makres said. “I [...]
Best Wishes to Chris Pineda
Business Development Manager Chris Pineda Departs Dundalk Renaissance Dundalk Renaissance Corporation announces the departure of Business Development Manager Chris Pineda, whose last day will be July 12th. Pineda, who first joined DRC as the Community Engagement Coordinator in August, 2017, has worked with business and community stakeholders to manage a rebranding of the Dundalk Main Street as the Historic Dundalk Town Center, assisted businesses with storefront improvements, established a [...]
Food Truck Festival a Huge Success
A winning recipe: One beautiful sunny day. 7 food trucks. A beer garden. 20 other vendors. Signal 13 Band. Games including basketball, corn hole, a moon bounce, face painting, arts and crafts, and more. Enthusiastic small businesses. 25+ dedicated volunteers. A focused event organizer. Center Place in the Historic Dundalk Town Center was bustling with activity on Saturday June 1st for what Dundalk Renaissance expects will be an annual [...]
Another Renovation From Partner Charm City Builders
Charm City Builders has been one of our Market Boost renovation partners since 2014. They recently completed another renovation, 109 Ventnor Terrace, that quickly went under contract. The 3 Bedroom, 2 bath home is located on a great block in the St. Helena neighborhood, one of our Focus Neighborhoods for investment. It is just steps from shops in the Historic Dundalk Town Center, a major bus line, and just [...]
Welcome Tiki Lees!
Another dock bar has opened -- Tiki Lees -- and we can't wait to try it! TEST blog
A Face Lift for Dental Office Thanks to a State Grant
The people-- and the facade-- at Dundalk Cosmetic and Family Dental Center at 5 Shipping Place are all smiles. Our local dental office, long a fixture in the Historic Dundalk Town Center, is one of 10 Commercial Improvement Grant projects completed by Dundalk Renaissance in our Historic Dundalk Town Center since 2017. The grants are funded by the State of Maryland Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative. Yes, the new bright [...]
Blue Breeze Bath Boutique Offers Natural Products at The Forge
Meet Blue Breeze Bath Boutique - Dundalk’s newest stop for all-natural bath & body products, located in The Forge, our business incubation space at 11 Center Place. Check out their Facebook page for updated information on bath bomb classes and new products. The owner, Tami Roloff has been creating the products for the past three years. She originally started with bath bombs and has since expanded to additional products [...]
Spring is a Neighborhood Thing
Our Focus Neighborhoods (Old Dundalk, Dun-Logan, St. Helena, Turner Station and Graceland Park) each boast an active neighborhood association and a core group of residents who turn out regularly for events and community projects. Spring cleanup season has arrived! St. Helena has their annual Project Clean Stream Clean-Up on Sat., April 6, from 8 am - noon. Start with a light breakfast, end with a nice lunch, and supplies are [...]