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Dear Friends,
We know our community has been hurting since the attacks on innocent people on October 7th. As we see increased pain, suffering and turmoil in Palestine and Israel, we know many of our residents are also hurting right here at home.
To encourage peace now, yesterday I released a draft letter addressed to President Joe Biden urging him to use his position and influence to secure an immediate ceasefire and the release of all remaining Israeli hostages in the Israel-Gaza War. It also strongly urges a global humanitarian surge of food, water, medical supplies and equipment to Gaza. Residents are invited to send their thoughts and feedback regarding this letter to constituentservices@howardcountymd.gov.
In addition to preparing this draft letter, our inaugural Interfaith Advisory Council will host a public listening session on Monday, February 26th at 6:00 p.m. at our Meadowbrook Athletic Complex. During this listening session, county residents will have the opportunity to respectfully provide public input and make their voices heard regarding the ongoing conflict.
We appreciate the opportunity to hear from our community through this public forum and look forward to receiving your invaluable insights regarding our letter to help us continue to unite our community in respectful, positive ways.
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Be a Community Ambassador
I'm thrilled to announce the launch of Howard County's Community Ambassador Program. This initiative is close to my heart as it embodies our commitment to community engagement and safety. On Saturday, February 10th at 10:00 a.m., we invite you to join us at the Harriet Tubman Cultural Center in Columbia. This is your opportunity to become part of a brand-new cohort dedicated to making a difference in our neighborhoods.
Our Community Ambassadors will be at the forefront of learning about the safety resources and services that keep Howard County vibrant and secure. Your participation is not just about staying informed—it's about taking an active role in fostering a connected and resilient community.
Don't miss out on the chance to contribute to Howard County's future and ensure it remains a safe, welcoming place for everyone. Register now at communityambassador.eventbrite.com and mark your calendar.
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That's a Wrap!
Another successful season of Howard County Winter Restaurant and Craft Beverages Weeks has come to a close. To celebrate this culinary occasion, members of my team visited The White Oak Tavern, Pho Dat Thanh, Tino's Italian Bistro, and Lib's Grill of Maple Lawn.
Supporting local businesses helps our whole community thrive. Thanks to everyone who participated in Winter Restaurant Weeks!
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Taking Steps Together to End Human Trafficking
As Human Trafficking Awareness Month came to an end, I joined our community at our annual Partner2Prevent Human Trafficking Awareness Panel. The event was a testament to Howard County’s dedication to combat human trafficking. Standing alongside the Human Trafficking Prevention Coordination Council and the Howard County Department of Community Resources and Services’ Office of Human Trafficking Prevention, I witnessed the passion and commitment our community has for this cause.
Together, we are taking proactive steps to ensure the safety and well-being of all people. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to this vital cause. Let's keep the momentum going, continue to be proud advocates for change and remain vigilant in our efforts to end human trafficking.
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Black History Month
Black History Month is an excellent time honor the extraordinary achievements and history of Black people throughout history. It is also a time to celebrate vibrant cultures and contributions of black people. This year, the theme for Black History Month is African Americans and the Arts. I invite you to explore the vast influence that black people have had in everything from food and folklore to literature and performing arts.
This month, we will highlight not some of the amazing contributions of Black leaders and organizations right here in Howard County.
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Soaring to a Hole in One
Please, join me in congratulating our River Hill High School Hawks for winning both the girls and boys Howard County Golf Championships. This is the first time in Howard County history that River Hill High School won these titles. We are so thrilled to see our Hawks continue to soar to new heights. Congratulations to all our young leaders and Coach Graves for this accomplishment!
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Vikings Clinch Victory
I visited Mount Hebron High School to celebrate an extraordinary achievement of our Vikings: their Girls Field Hockey team clinching the Class 3A State Championship. This victory, under the leadership of Coach Jeannette Ireland, marks a historic moment for the school, particularly poignant as it crowns Coach Ireland’s impressive 33-year tenure with her first state championship.
Congratulations to the entire team and coaching staff on this monumental accomplishment. Your dedication and spirit have brought immense pride to Mount Hebron and Howard County. Keep striving for greatness!
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Mentor Maryland
As we culminated Mentoring Month this past January, I was happy to meet with Mentor Maryland, a vibrant organization that is working to ensure all young people have access to quality mentoring relationships. Their work to help provide resources and evidence-based practices to partners is important to ultimately change the landscape for our young people.
I’m grateful for partners like Mentor Maryland and our many youth-serving organizations in Howard County that provide mentors who are committed to ensuring all our young people thrive and have a chance to live their best lives.
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Roslyn Rise
The redevelopment of Roslyn Rise is nearing a remarkable completion, unveiling its new identity as "Legacy at Twin Rivers" in the heart of Wilde Lake. This 153-unit project, brimming with amenities, ushers in a new era of mixed-income community living. With options ranging from one to four bedrooms, Legacy at Twin Rivers is designed to welcome a diverse tapestry of residents.
Maryland Housing Secretary Jacob Day recently toured the site of this transformational $70 million housing project, noting the significant strides we've made in community development and affordable housing. The anticipation is building as Legacy at Twin Rivers gears up to sign its first tenants in February 2024.
Supported with a County PILOT agreement, this redevelopment is the first of five nonprofit projects being led by Enterprise Community Development. Together, these projects will expand access to affordable housing and modernize older neighborhoods. We're excited to see the positive impact that Legacy at Twin Rivers will have on our residents and the broader community.
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Finding a PCP
Establishing a long-term relationship with a Primary Care Provider (PCP) is more than just an annual check-up; it's a vital partnership for your well-being. Your PCP is a central figure in your health care, offering guidance to keep you healthy, providing treatment when you're sick, and connecting you with specialized care as needed. This relationship not only keeps you healthier but also helps in reducing overall medical costs.
Regular visits to your PCP allow for early detection of health issues, personalized health strategies, and a better understanding of your unique medical history. So, make it a point to prioritize these essential healthcare visits. Your health is invaluable, and a PCP is your best ally in protecting it.
For help with finding a PCP, check out our CAREAPP Howard County or visit www.howardcountymd.gov/healthyhowardcounty to learn more about the benefits of getting regular check-ups and more.
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Project of the Year
I'm excited to share that the Harriet Tubman Cultural Center (HTCC) has been honored with the 2024 Project of the Year Award for Historical Restoration/Preservation by the American Public Works Association (APWA) Mid-Atlantic Chapter. This award celebrates our commitment to preserving Howard County's rich history and the influential legacy of the African American community. The HTCC, once the historic Harriet Tubman School, now stands as a vibrant cultural and educational center of our diverse heritage.
Our team has worked tirelessly to transform this historic site, blending its historical significance with modern functionalities. I extend my deepest gratitude to the Department of Public Works, the Department of Recreation & Parks, and everyone who played a part in this remarkable project.
To discover more about the HTCC's programs and their impact, I invite you to visit www.howardcountymd.gov/htcc. Let us continue to cherish our history while fostering a future grounded in unity and mutual respect.
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Kelvin Abrams, An Innovative Entrepreneur
Howard County has many talented residents; from innovative entrepreneurs to visionary leaders, and it is always heartwarming to celebrate those are both. Kelvin Abrams, owner of K9 and Coffee, Tiki's Playhouse, Inc. and American Fitness Express, recently published his book “Get Uncomfortable or Change Course.” I had a great time stopping by his book signing in Glenelg and learning more about his experience as an entrepreneur and the challenges he endured on his way to success.
Congratulations Kelvin, and I wish your ongoing success in all your endeavors!
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Join My Team!
My office is currently looking to fill several vacant positions. To learn more and apply, please click the respective link below.
I encourage interested persons to apply today! To find a full listing of available positions, please click here.
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You Are Not A-Loan
Powered by Howard County Economic Development Authority’s (HCEDA) and part of Maryland’s Video Lottery Terminal Small, Minority and Woman-Owned Business Account initiative, the Catalyst Fund is locally managed source of capital used to finance start-ups and expanding businesses statewide whose projects will create permanent jobs and leverage private sector investment. Loan funds can be used for normal business uses such as working capital, equipment, real estate, franchise fees and inventory purchases, and loan amounts vary pending availability of funds.
If you are a growth-oriented business in the pre-banking stage and are interested in learning more about the Catalyst Fund Loan program, visit https://hceda.org/business-support/catalyst-loans/.
Also, HCEDA is now also offering it Collateral Assistance Fund to Howard County businesses. This fund assists companies in satisfying the collateral requirement to secure a catalyst loan.
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Department of Community Resources and Services | |
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Black History Month and Romance Scams
In recognition of Black History Month, our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Director Jackie Scott is joined Harriet Tubman Foundation of Howard County President Bessie Bordenave and Howard County’s Harriet Tubman Cultural Center Director Kori Jones for this month’s HoCo Community Chat podcast episode, to discuss the importance of Black History and why it should be celebrated all year round, not just in February.
In addition, Director Scott wraps up this month’s podcast with Office of Consumer Protection Investigator Lila Boor and Center for Elder Justice and Education Founder and President Andre Lingham to discuss romance scams and their prevalence during the Valentine's Day season.
Be sure to stay tuned on Buzzsprout or check out HoCo Community Chat wherever you listen to your podcasts, and if there is something specific you want to hear discussed, email DCRS at communityresources@howardcountymd.gov.
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Winter Wellness Fitness Challenge Kicks off this February
Embark on a transformative journey with DCRS’s Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) this winter season by taking part in its FREE Winter Wellness Fitness Challenge. This eight-week fitness challenge – which runs from February 1st through March 28th at our 50+ Centers, offers participants a variety of fitness classes to join to meet a 16 workout goal. Beyond physical fitness, this challenge fosters a sense of community among older adults and provides a supportive environment to help participants prioritize their well-being this winter.
As we embrace the warmth of togetherness and vitality this season, I encourage you to join OAI for this enriching experience of connection, health and personal growth. To register, click HERE to register now or for more information, call 410-313-1404 or email slively@howardcountymd.gov. You can also learn more about the challenge by checking out the latest issue of The 50+ Connection.
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2024 Parent’s Guide Now Available
DCRS’s Office of Children and Families’ (OCF) annual Parent’s Guide to Howard County offers parents, caregivers and others information about the most up-to-date resources and services available in our community to help all children grow and thrive. Inside the 2024 Parent’s Guide to Howard County, readers will find information about programs that support positive family engagement, including OCF’s new Family Support Center that serves Howard County families of children from birth to age five.
For questions, more information about available service or if your family needs additional assistance and support, please contact OCF’s CARE Line at 410-313-2273 today.
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2024 Howard County Resource Guide Now Available
DCRS's OAI's annual Howard County Resource Guide contains up-to-date information about health and wellness, financial planning, legal services, housing options and more to help county residents age well and plan for their future. You can find OAI’s 2024 Howard County Resource Guide online or pick up a hard copy at one of OAI’s 50+ Centers and Howard County Library System branches.
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Stay Off the Ice!
While our Department of Fire and Rescue Services trains for this, the department is reminding residents to NEVER venture onto frozen water as there is no such thing as safe ice (except maybe on the rink). Even if the ice appears thick from the bank, it can become thinner very quickly.
If YOU WITNESS someone fall through the ice, keep calm and call 9-1-1. Resist the urge to run up to the edge of the hole to try and pull them out as you will most likely break through the ice creating two victims. If you can safely reach the victim from shore, extend an object, such as a branch, rope or clothing tied together, to try and pull them out – AGAIN, DO NOT GO ON THE ICE.
If a dog or other animal ventures onto the ice, or falls through it, do NOT go to its rescue - you are likely to end up in the freezing water yourself and unable to help the animal. More than 50 percent of ice related drownings involve an attempted rescue of a dog. If walking your dog near a frozen waterway, keep it on its leash and never throw sticks or balls onto the ice for them to chase.
If YOU FALL through the ice, remain calm. Turn toward the direction you came from placing your hands and arms on the unbroken surface of the ice and work forward by kicking your feet. Once you are lying on the ice, DO NOT stand. Instead, roll away from the hole; this spreads out your weight until you are on solid ice. Warm up and get help.
Again, stay safe this winter by staying off the ice!
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Department of Planning and Zoning | |
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Share Your Feedback About the Future of Gateway
If you missed our Department of Planning and Zoning's Gateway Open House on January 25th, you can still stay in the know about our Gateway Master Plan and share your voice! Visit www.howardcountymd.gov/gateway to view the Open House presentation and then share your thoughts in the Gateway comment form, open through next Tuesday, February 13th! You can also sign up to receive all future Gateway Master Plan updates at www.howardcountymd.gov/gateway.
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Teen Defensive Driving Training Program is Back!
PARENTS and GUARDIANS of TEEN DRIVERS, registration is NOW OPEN for Howard County Police Department’s (HCPD) Collision Avoidance Training (C.A.T.) program’s 2024 calendar year. With classes lined up for March 16th, April 20th, May 11th, June 8th, July 27th, August 24th, September 21st, October 12th, November 2nd and December 14th and held at the County's James N. Robey Public Safety Training Center in Marriottsville, this program teaches participants how to better handle their vehicles in various situations through hands-on techniques. This defensive driving and vehicle control program is geared towards young drivers, age 16 to 20, and was developed by the National Traffic Safety Academy and adapted from law enforcement training.
To participate in this one-day course, drivers must possess a valid Maryland "Class C" driver’s license (no learner's permit) and have a registered vehicle to drive during the practical exercises. Howard County residency is NOT a requirement. The cost is $95 (scholarship opportunities are available) and advance registration is required. To register, click HERE.
For questions, more information about or to inquire about registering your teen driver, contact HCPD's C.A.T. program at 410-313-2207 or catprogram@howardcountymd.gov.
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SCAM ALERT
HCPD is warning residents of an ongoing phone scam in which the caller identifies themselves as being from HCPD or Howard County Sheriff's Office, uses the name of a REAL officer or deputy, and demands money for missed jury duty or an arrest warrant. THIS IS A SCAM! Neither HCPD nor the Sheriff's Office will ever demand payment over the phone.
If you receive this call, HANG UP immediately, DO NOT arrange payment and DO NOT give out any personal or financial information. If you believe you may have been a victim of a telephone scam ((shared personal or financial information), call police at 410-313-2200 or file an online police report at www.howardcountymd.gov/police/file-online-report.
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Too Cold for You Outside, Too Cold for Your Pets
With winter weather here to stay for a while, HCPD and its Animal Control Division are reminding residents that Howard County law requires animals housed outside must have access to appropriate shelter, bedding and an unfrozen water source at all times. Dogs may not be tethered outside when not under direct supervision; this means you must be out there with them. Please keep in mind, these requirements are the bare minimum and if it's too cold for you outside, it's probably too cold for your dog or cat.
To report a violation, please contact Animal Control at 410-313-2780. Violations can lead to civil citations, criminal charges and/or impoundment of one's pet.
For safety tips on how to keep your pet safe during the cold winter months, such as cleaning snow and salt from their paws, legs and stomach, check out the ASPCA’s “Cold Weather Safety Tips” website.
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Department of Public Works | |
Bureau of Environmental Services | |
Help Us Recognize Those Going Green
If you know of a Howard County-based business, community group, school or organization that deserves to be recognized for its efforts, projects or programs that help protect Howard County’s natural environment and preserve its resources, I encourage you to nominate them for our Bureau of Environmental Services' “Business Recycling and Waste Reduction” and “Green Community Leadership” awards.
Nomination forms are available online at www.workgreenhoward.org and must be delivered or postmarked by 5:00 p.m. this Friday, February 11th to: Meleine Yao, Recycling Coordinator, 9801 Broken Land Parkway, Columbia, MD 21046, or email myao@howardcountymd.gov (email preferred).
Awards will be presented at the 17th annual Howard County GreenFest on Saturday, April 13th at Howard Community College.
For more information, or to request a nomination form in an alternate format, contact the Bureau of Environmental Services at 410-313-6444 or email help@howardcountyrecycles.org. For information about the Bureau’s Work Green program, visit www.workgreenhoward.org.
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Special Household Hazardous Waste Days
While the County's Bureau of Environmental Services' regular Saturday Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) schedule is on hiatus until the first Saturday of April, the 6th, the Bureau is hosting three SPECIAL HHW collection days this winter at the Alpha Ridge Landfill. With the first two completed, the Bureau’s FINAL SPECAL HHW event will take place on Saturday, March 2nd On this day, Howard County residents can properly dispose of HHW items at the Landfill.
To learn more about this program and what is accepted/not accepted, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/HHW.
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Tips on How to Keep Pipes from Freezing as Temperatures Dip
With winter underway and below freezing temperatures already making themselves known, DPW’s Bureau of Utilities is offering residents tips on how to keep pipes from freezing and potentially bursting. These tips are especially important for water pipes located in a crawlspace or on an outside wall, or garage, attic or any other unheated building, which are subject to sub-freezing temperatures.
If your pipes do freeze, the Bureau recommends opening the cold-water faucet nearest the frozen pipe to relieve pressure. Then, use a gentle heat source, such as a light bulb or hair dryer, to thaw the pipe. DO NOT use an open flame.
To learn more, click HERE.
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Public Works Construction Report | |
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To learn about DPW projects currently underway, click HERE. Searchable by project category and street name, from this site you’ll find additional project details, including news releases about the project. You can also contact DPW’s Customer Service Office at 410-313-3440 or email publicworks@howardcountymd.gov for further assistance.
If you have questions or are interested in finding out about a State road (numbered roadway) project in your area, visit the Maryland State Highway Administration’s (SHA) “Project Portal” website.
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Department of Recreation and Parks | |
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Registration for Recreation & Parks’ Summer Camp Guide Begins this Week
Howard County residents, online, over-the-phone, mail-in and in-person registration for our Department of Recreation & Parks' 2024 Summer Camp Guide is now open. From art, chess, Lego, magic and sports camps, there is something to keep your child’s mind and body active during the summer months.
For non-Howard County residents, online registration begins for you next Wednesday, February 7th at 6:00 p.m. and all other methods the following day.
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Magic of the Maple
Robinson Nature Center’s popular winter program, “Magic of the Maple,” returns this weekend February 10th and 11th. Join Robinson Nature Center staff as they take participants on a walk through the woods amongst the maple trees to learn more about how these marvelous maples give us that oh-so-delicious syrup. Participants will learn all about maple sugaring, how to tap a log and the cooking process, as well as have the chance to sample a variety of different types of syrup, including local syrups from Tonoloway Farm in Highland County, Virginia.
The cost to participate is $10 per Robinson Nature Center member and $12 per non-member. To register, call 410-313-0400 today. When registering, you will be required to choose a timeslot: 10:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Please note, the 10:00 a.m. timeslot on Saturday, February 10th is mobility-friendly.
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What to Do When Schools are Closed
Recreation & Parks is always here to help when school’s are scheduled to dismiss early or scheduled to be closed with its School's Out programming days. From Circus Camp Stars with Michael Rosman, Learn Now Music, Club SciKidz, Magnus Chess Academy, Stemtree, Medical Me, Abrakadoodle, Squash, Sports and Swim, Drama Learning Center, Charm City Cakes Cooking and more, there are plenty of activities and programs to choose from to keep your kids active when school is not in session.
To learn more about what fun Recreation & Parks activities has planned this month, click on the following dates: Wednesday, February 7th, Thursday, February 8th, Friday, February 9th and Monday, February 19th.
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Wine in the Woods
Be sure to mark your calendars as Recreation & Parks’ annual Wine in the Woods event is set to return to Symphony Woods by Merriweather Post Pavilion on May 18th and May 19th. With tickets set to go on sale in March, be sure to stay tuned to www.wineinthewoods.com to learn more and stay in the know about this always popular event.
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Transportation Open House Materials and Survey
If you missed our Office of Transportation’s first annual Transportation Open House this past week, but still want to view the materials discussed and complete the accompanying survey, visit HERE. On this page, visitors will find the materials presented at the previous Active Transportation and Transportation Priorities Open Houses, as well as additional information on topics including safety, Complete Streets, transit and regional planning, and roadway maintenance and operations.
Additionally, the accompanying survey offers visitors an opportunity to share their feedback and comments regarding the County's overall transportation priorities, approaches to solving common transportation challenges and specific projects with Transportation. This survey will help us develop our annual Transportation Priorities Letter that we send to the Maryland Department of Transportation each spring.
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Transportation Demand Management Plan
With the release of its updated Downtown Columbia Transportation Demand Management Plan (TDMP), Transportation and the Downtown Columbia Partnership are currently seeking your feedback on the plan, now through Tuesday, February 13th.
The initial plan was completed in July 2018 and an update was being drafted in the spring 2020; however, additional work since then was sought to incorporate changes that occurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
To provide feedback on the TDMP, click HERE. To learn more about Transportation Demand Management (TDM) and the County’s TDM program, Go Howard, click HERE.
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