DATE: October 2, 2006
FOR RELEASE: IMMEDIATE
CONTACT: Chris Smith
(410) 876-9610
(301) 370-0666 (cell)
crsmith@thebarbourgroup.com

Westminster, MD (10/2/06) — The Governor's Office of Minority Affairs (OMA) announced that Karen Barbour, president, The Barbour Group (TBG), located in Westminster, Maryland has been named one of Maryland’s Top 100 Minority Businesses for 2006. This program is designed to salute Maryland’s best minority and women business owners and to highlight their achievements.

TBG provides surety bonds for the construction industry in 27 states plus commercial insurance for professional services firms in Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC. Founded in 2002, TBG provides access to leading surety markets that can service both domestic and international construction projects.

A panel of distinguished judges chose Karen Barbour as an entrepreneur who has demonstrated outstanding achievement in four key areas: business development, client satisfaction, professional affiliations and community outreach.

Sharon R. Pinder, Special Secretary, Governor’s Office of Minority Affairs said, “The business owners selected for this award represent the best of the state’s more than 200,000 women and minority owned businesses. Their contributions have had a major impact in maintaining Maryland’s vibrant economy.”

"It is an honor," says Barbour, "to be recognized alongside this very talented group of business owners. I truly have to thank all of my exceptional clients for making this award possible."

Barbour will be honored at an awards ceremony at the Inn and Conference Center, at University of Maryland University College, in Adelphi, Maryland, on Friday, October 27.

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Editor's Note: Black and white or 4-color head shots of Ms. Barbour are available by calling 410-876-9610.

Other TBG News Releases

U.S Small Business Administration Picks Small Business Hororee [4.4.08]

Maryland's Hispanic Businesses Honor Barbour [3.3.08]

Barbour Picked by Leadership Maryland for 2008 Class [2.11.08]

TBG Hires Well Known Lobbyist [1.31.08]

Barbour Named Top Fundraiser by Muscular Dystrophy Association [1.3.08]

Army Sets Aside Millions in BRAC Small Business Contracts [7.18.07]

Congressman Cummings Declares Bonding Key Resource [6.7.07]

TBG Obtains New Contract Vehicle [5.17.07]

Governor's Office and TBG Conduct Bonding Seminar [5.10.07]

Karen Barbour Appointed Board Member at MBIA [1.29.07]

Greater Baltimore Committee Announces Finalists for Awards [12.1.06]

Karen Barbour Voted MBIA's Person of Year [11.21.06]

The Barbour Group Plays Instrumental Role in Surety Legislation [5.3.06]