Entrepreneurship set as focus Nov. 1. Howard Community...

Energy -- The Columbia-based Restaurant Association of Maryland is holding open enrollment for the Mid-Atlantic Aggregation Group Independent Consortium, an energy group of retailers and others, of which the association is a member. The consortium's goal is to offer power to commercial participants at a fixed rate that is lower than that offered by the local utility. The program offers long-term fixed pricing for up to five years, a price-reduction clause should energy rates decrease, the right to assign the contract should a business be sold, no historical-bandwidth usage requirement (the price is fixed) and elimination of additional charges in high-demand summer months. Paula Kreuzburg or Joe Gabriel, 800- 874-1313.

Agriculture -- The Agricultural Marketing Program of the Howard County Economic Development Authority has released its 2006 edition of the Howard County Farms & Services Guide, a resource for consumers interested in buying directly from farmers or farmers' markets. Listings include icons for each farm that provide a quick view of the products offered, including produce, farm products, agritourism, educational experiences, horse stabling and others. Agricultural support agencies, farmers' markets, a harvest calendar and other features are included. The agricultural marketing program has distributed the guide to the Howard County tourism office, libraries, welcome center, the county extension office, the county agricultural preservation office and participating farms. To request a copy: 410-313-6500.

Business Digest items may be sent to Fay Lande at fay. [e-mail] or faxed to her attention at 410-715-2816.