(Giles Keyte/Focus) It requires careful skill to be an assassin: exemplary marksmanship, precision in movement, and certainty in intention. The same can be said of successful filmmaking, and even of convincing performance. It’s a good thing, then, that Focus Features’ The American, a meticulously crafted, retro-styled exercise in vigilance and meditation, subsists on those who embody these very qualities: the titularly-described agent named Jack, George Clooney in his portrayal of Jack,... 

From the Maryland Department of Natural Resources: The Md. Board of Public Works on Wed. approved $12.6 million for land preservation in 14 counties. In Harford County, the Deer Creek Rural Legacy Area will receive $1.36 million and the Manor Rural Legacy Area, part of which is in western Harford County, and part in Baltimore County, was awarded $1 million. The funds are used to purchase, from willing landowners, conservation easements on lands that will remain in private hands. The purchases are... 

From Harford Community College: Begin a new career or advance in your current place of employment with these noncredit short course offerings at Harford Community College. Computer Forensics September 3-December 10 (Fridays), 6-8:50 PM, Harford Community College, Joppa Hall, Rm. 009 Examine the emerging role of the computer forensics examiner and get hands-on experience using various computer forensic methods, evidence preservation techniques and documentation. Prerequisites required. Call 443-360-9108.... 

From the Harford County Sheriff’s Office: The Harford County Sheriff’s Office responded to Harford Air Park off of Aldino Road located in Churchville MD with regards to a reported plane crash Wednesday afternoon. Upon arrival, just after 12:30 pm Wednesday, the deputy observed a blue single engine aircraft north of the airpark in a field located approximately 200 yards north of the airstrip. The HCSO deputy made contact with the pilot, who was injured and being treated by the medic from... 

With the 2010 Gubernatorial Primary Election now less than two weeks away, local and national groups, agencies, and organizations have started announcing their slates of endorsed candidates. Compiled below are the endorsements released by the Harford County Education Association, Route 40 and North Harford Republican Clubs, the National Federation of Independent Business, Maryland League Of Conservation Voters, and New Harford Democratic Club. Please note: The Dagger does not necessarily condone... 

From Harford County government: The Bel Air Recreation Committee is pleased to announce that the 44th annual Bel Air Festival for the Arts will be held Sunday, Sept. 19th, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. behind the Bel Air Town Hall on Hickory Ave. Approximately 350 artists, photographers and crafters will display their hand-made work at this popular event. In addition, there will be continuous live entertainment on the bandshell stage, as well as roving entertainment. A wide array of food will be available... 

From Harford County government: September is Emergency Preparedness Month and the Harford County Commission on Disabilities recommends all citizens, including those with disabilities, develop an emergency plan. “No one knows what may occur,” said Commission Chairperson Marc Weinstein, “but preparing a plan to cover the basics can make all the difference in the world in an emergency.” Preparing for an emergency involves asking questions about what kind of emergencies could arise, who would...