Bel Air Annual Awards Ceremony Recognizes Businesses, Citizen Of The Year

BEL AIR, MD — The town of Bel Air and the Bel Air Economic and Community Development Commission held its Bel Air Annual Awards event Oct. 26 where several businesses were honored.

Looney’s Pub, located at 312 South Main Street, took home top honors as the 2023 Business of the
Year. Owner William Larney was on hand to receive the award, given by the Bel Air Board of Town Commissioners. Looney’s Pub was selected based on their involvement in town activities, the priority they place on giving back to the community and their contribution to the overall
economy and culture of Bel Air.

The ECDC presented the Archer-Bull Award, named after prominent 19th century Bel Air architect
George Archer and master builder Jacob Bull, to Michael Ruocco, Bernie Ruocco, Nick Ruocco and Mike Arnold for the adaptive reuse of 331 Baltimore Pike, a modern retail center that is currently home to eight businesses. The project received the award for overall design excellence, compatibility to surrounding structures and economic impact to the community. The architectural firm of Architectural Design Works, Inc. was also acknowledged for the architectural design of the building. CG Builders was recognized for their construction work on this project.

The Board of Town Commissioners presented its Citizen of the Year Award to Margaret S. “Peg”
Lucas. This award is given to a citizen for his or her continuous commitment to bettering the town and having a positive impact for its residents. Lucas has repeatedly given of her time
and talent, volunteering in many different ways in the community for more than 40 years with 30 years spent as a member of the Historic Preservation Commission, along with involvement with the Cultural Arts Commission and the Appearance and Beautification Committee.