Dear Friends,

With the holiday season underway, it's the perfect time to reflect on our countless blessings and the special people in our lives. For our friends and neighbors who may be financially struggling in silence, this time of year can be especially hard. That is why I am so grateful for our partnership with the Marine Corps Reserve and our annual Howard County Toys for Tots toy drive to help make the holidays a little lighter and brighter for every child.

I encourage residents, who are able and willing, to please donate a new, unwrapped toy at one of our many Toys for Tots drop off locations set up throughout the county. Donations are being accepted now through noon on December 15th.

Together we can make this holiday season a little merrier for our neighbors in need!

Public Hearing Announcement

The Howard County Delegation to the Maryland General Assembly will hold a public hearing for resident input on local legislation proposed for the 2024 General Assembly session. The hearing will be held in the Banneker Room in the George Howard Building at 7:00 p.m. this Thursday, November 30th. To review the proposed local bills for the 2024 session, please click HERE. For more details on how to sign up for testimony, please click HERE.

Listening to You

Looking ahead to Fiscal Year 2025, I call upon the residents of Howard County to participate in a cornerstone of our civic engagement — the Residents' Budget Hearing. Let's come together virtually on December 11th at 6:00 PM to discuss and shape the financial future of our county.

Your insights and feedback are the driving force behind our fiscal planning. I warmly encourage every member of our community to contribute. Please share your valuable suggestions, concerns or ideas by submitting your testimony to BudgetTestimony@howardcountymd.gov.

It's through your involvement that we can craft a budget that truly represents and addresses the varied needs and aspirations of all who call Howard County home.

Shop Small, Shop Local

Small Business Saturday is a day to celebrate and uplift all the local gems that make our community unique. The holiday season is a great time to shop small, shop local and support our businesses here in Howard County. This past Saturday, November 25th, I had a great time visiting our small, local businesses in Ellicott City, Savage Mill and Columbia. Thank you to the Ellicott City Partnership, Visit Howard County, the team at Savage Mill and every local entrepreneur who helped highlight our incredible small businesses. 

Whether it’s Su Casa, Jules + Kate, The Antique Center at Historic Savage Mill, Gram's Jams, Eastern Coral, Edward Arthur Jewelers, Mind Games or Maryland Gift, there is something for everyone at all our local businesses across the county. This holiday season, remember to shop small, shop local!

Let's Get Fysical!

During Small Business Saturday, I was happy to celebrate the grand opening of a new physical therapy office in Columbia. FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers Columbia North is a medical and scientifically driven physical therapy and fitness organization that was established in collaboration with doctors, therapists and service business experts. This means that they'll be able to prescribe the best physical therapy practices that will help further all our commitments to our health and wellness. 

Thank you for choosing Howard County as your home, and I wish your ongoing success! Learn more about them at www.fyzical.com/columbia-north-md. 

Rather Unique

This Small Business Saturday was a beautiful day to celebrate the opening of Unique Kitchens & Baths’ newest location right on Main Street in Historic Ellicott City. Their pristine designs and custom cabinetry offer our residents the opportunity to make their home just right. We’re happy that they chose Howard County as their new home.

This holiday season, please continue to support our small, local businesses! Learn more about Unique Kitchen and Baths at www.uniquekitchensandbaths.net/.

Shine Bright Like A Diamond

Congratulations to our very own St John's Jewelers on their golden 50th anniversary! On this Small Business Saturday, I had a chance to stop by and see some of their dazzling products and congratulate them on five decades of timeless beauty, elegance, and exquisite craftmanship. 

They have helped so many people in our community create the perfect moments and memories. I wish them continued success and sparkle for another 50 more years and beyond!

Learn more about them at https://stjohnsjewelers.com.

Best on the Blocks, De-Spike the Odds

Howard County has incredible public servants who also make significant strides on the national stage. This summer, during the World Police and Fire games in Winnipeg, Canada, Howard County Police Department’s very own PFC Raymond Peele and his team won two gold medals and one bronze in volleyball, representing Team USA. One of the gold medals received was the very first gold medal received in Team USA history.  

Police Chief Gregory Der and I proudly congratulate PFC Peele for his incredible hard work, determination, athleticism and for being best on the blocks, de-spike the odds. Congratulations!

Map the Way

Through our Holiday Lights Map, Howard County residents and visitors can continue the beloved holiday tradition to walk or drive around our neighborhoods and view the festive holiday lights. Throughout the holiday season, I encourage you to plan a festive evening to tour the bright lights and support all our residents and businesses who dedicate so much time and effort to their displays.

To learn more, check out this recent The Baltimore Sun article. 

The Act of Giving

Reflecting on the heartwarming success of our Thanksgiving Food Distribution event, I am filled with pride for Howard County's community spirit. 

Early last week, Department of Community Resources and Services, the Office of the Local Children's Board and its Multiservice Center provided hundreds of families with Thanksgiving food baskets. This act of giving ensured that more of our neighbors could enjoy a festive and bountiful holiday.

A sincere thank you to everyone who made this possible—our devoted staff, the generous donors and the tireless volunteers. Your compassion and dedication represent the very best of Howard County. 

It's through actions like these that we build not just a community but a family.

Vaccinate. Prevent. Protect.

Together, we can VACCINATE against seasonal flu, PREVENT severe infection and PROTECT the ones we love. 

Please visit www.howardcountymd.gov/health/seasonal-flu to learn more about getting your annual flu shot right here in Howard County. You can also find nationwide clinics at www.vaccines.gov.

Charm City

I had the pleasure of joining Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Director Michael Sanderson in Baltimore City as part of the MACo President's Tour. It was an honor to meet with Mayor Brandon M. Scott and the City Council to engage in substantive discussions about the progress and future of Baltimore City. Together, we are forging paths toward mutual prosperity for all our communities across Maryland.

Our dialogue with Mayor Scott and the dedicated city council members was a powerful reminder of the collaborative spirit that drives our state. We are united in our commitment to strengthening our regions — ensuring safety, advancing education, enhancing transportation, and nurturing a thriving business landscape. 

These visits are integral as we work hand in hand to ensure that the best of Maryland's opportunities are accessible to all its residents.

Shining Bright for All to See

Many of us have family holiday traditions of walking or driving around our neighborhoods to enjoy the festive holiday lights and experience the joy they bring. To assist residents and visitors in locating the best and brightest residential and commercial holiday light displays our great county has to offer, I’ve once again launched our “HoCo Holiday Lights” map. 

To inspire more unity and goodwill this holiday season, I hope residents will flaunt their holiday spirit by registering their holiday light display so the rest of us can enjoy making quality memories as we observe the lights.

To learn more about our “HoCo Holiday Lights” map, click HERE or check out this recent news story by Fox45.  

Get Covered Maryland

As we strive for a healthier Howard County, it's important to address the gaps in our healthcare system. Recent data indicates that in 2021, seven percent of our residents lacked access to healthcare coverage. Healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and it’s essential that every member of our community has the resources they need to lead healthy, productive lives.

Please visit marylandhealthconnection.gov or call 855-642-8572 to find coverage that's right for you. Open enrollment is available now through January 15, 2024.

Let's work together to ensure that no one in our community goes without the care they need.

Welcome Charley's!

It is always a beautiful day in Howard County when a new restaurant in Howard County opens. It was a pleasure to join Dr. Rice, Mr. Singh and Mr. Tabana for the grand opening of Charley's Cheesesteaks and Wings in Ellicott City.

Located inside the Walmart on Ridge Road, Charley’s serves made-fresh cheesesteaks, loaded gourmet fries, wings and all-natural lemonades. Congratulations, and I wish you ongoing success!

Helping Our Neighbors in Need

I greatly enjoyed joining our Lisbon Elementary School community for its 6th Annual Community Night to help put together more than 200 food baskets to help address food insecurity for our neighbors in need.

I’m so thankful for the efforts of Principal Debra Anoff, the Lisbon Elementary School PTA, and every student and volunteer who helps make a difference in the lives of so many. 

Together, we can ensure no one feels alone this holiday season.

Our Vote is Our Voice

Howard County’s First Lady Shani Ball and I had a great time at the Annual Black Girls Vote (BGV) Ball this weekend. We know that our vote is our voice, and BGV helps empower women of color to understand the public policy decisions affecting their families and communities. 

A special thanks to visionary founder Nykidra Robinson for her efforts to uplift our next generation of voters and leaders. 

Together, I know that we will continue to use our collective voice to transform our county, our state, and our world for the better.

Inclusivity Saves Lives

November 20th commemorates Transgender Day of Remembrance, a day to honor the lives of transgender and nonbinary individuals who we have lost to disproportionate rates of suicide, homicide and transphobia. Hate has no place in Howard County, and as a community, we must stand together to foster understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

Inclusivity saves lives. Transgender and nonbinary youth who have their pronouns respected attempted suicide at half the rate of those who did not. We must also continue to safeguard and expand access to equitable healthcare for transgender and nonbinary members of our community. Earlier this year, I was happy to see that Governor Moore signed the Trans Health Equity Act into law, ensuring that more Marylanders can receive the critical, gender-affirming care they need to live healthy and supported lives.

As we honor and remember those we have lost, I encourage you to get involved, explore deeper learning, and engage in meaningful conversations by connecting with the Howard County LGBTQIA+ Commission. Let's continue educating ourselves, uplifting voices, and building a community that celebrates diversity and embraces everyone.

Start by visiting www.howardcountymd.gov/county-executive#lgbtqia-resources. 

Join My Team!

My office is currently looking to fill several vacant positions. To learn more and apply, please click the respective link below.

• Infrastructure Manager (Technical Services Manager II) - Dept of Technology & Communication Services – This position provides systems administration in server management, support and troubleshooting. It is primarily responsible for the implementation and support of Cisco/VMware/NetApp datacenter as well as other networking and unified communication systems used in the County.
• GIS Analyst (Technical Services Support Specialist I) - Dept. of Technology and Communication Services – Performs intermediate level technical communications work under regular supervision from a technical superior. This position provides Geographic Information Systems (GIS) development, maintenance, and support. Duties are primarily performed in support of the GIS Police/911 Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system.
• Nutrition Specialist-(Human Services Specialist I)-Community Resources and Services, Aging – Coordinates all aspects of the food and nutrition program at the Howard County 50+ Centers and may assist and/or coordinate nutrition services at other local nutrition sites to reduce food insecurity and promote socialization. Develops and coordinates nutrition activities, including educational presentations and cooking demonstrations, in-person and virtually as needed. Works collaboratively across the Office and Department to promote wellness and nutrition activities. Develops and maintains community partnerships with key partners to ensure program expansion for both Congregate and Home Delivered Meals programs. Supports a nutrition related emergency response.
• Therapeutic Recreation Aquatics Operator - Recreation & Parks – Under the supervision of the Recreation Manager and the Therapeutic Recreation Supervisors, the Pool Operator will operate all aspects of the swimming lesson, open swim and Water Exercise and aquatic program at the Cedar Lane Therapy Pool.
• Sports Supervisor - (Recreation Services Coordinator II) - Recreation & Parks, Bureau of Recreation – This position performs professional level recreation services work, which may include supervision, under general supervision from an administrative or technical superior. Work includes overseeing the safe and efficient operation of activities at school and department recreational facilities, parks and private recreational facilities; or overseeing the operation of programs in specific functional areas under the direction of a recreation supervisor. Assists in analyzing marketing data for program promotion and customer service. Work also includes the supervision of contingent, part-time staff and volunteers; overseeing the approved budget; and preparing information for recreation supervisor for seasonal and fiscal reports.
• Career Coach - Office of Workforce Development - The position coordinates career exploration resources, identifies and collaborates with partners to develop career exploration activities and administers these activities in the middle and high schools.
• Technology Coordinator - Department of Community Resources and Services - Provide technical support as well as promote the use of technology at all staff levels and ensures that staff has appropriate training to fully apply available technologies.

I encourage interested persons to apply today! To find a full listing of available positions, please click here.

Applicants Sought for Advisory Board on Consumer Protection

Our Advisory Board on Consumer Protection plays a vital role in addressing new scams and consumer issues and needs, as well as protecting our Howard County consumers. If you or someone you know who is interested in this important work and who has worked with or is currently employed by a consumer interest group or organization, I encourage you to apply today to join this board and support its efforts to improve consumer protection services here in Howard County.

To learn more about the Board, including eligibility requirements and how to apply, click HERE today. Please keep in mind, the deadline to apply is Friday, December 15th.

Offering Free Family Workshops 

The Howard County Family Institute is an education, information and community outreach program of our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Office of Children and Families (OCF). The mission of the Family Institute is to assist parents and guardians in their parenting role by providing education that enhances caregiver skills, knowledge and behavior with a vision that all children will start life with a strong foundation. OCF’s newsletter, Parent Pages, lists multiple free workshops to help educate families and provide caregivers with resources, including Positive Solutions for Families this Wednesday, November 29th.



To learn more about these free family workshops and/or to register, visit OCF’s website.

HoCo Community Chat Celebrates National Family Caregivers Month and Veterans Day

For this month’s November episode of DCRS’s HoCo Community Chat podcast, Director Jackie Scott is hosting two special segments. The first segment focuses on National Family Caregivers Month, where Jackie is joined by our Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) Caregiver Support Program Manager Kathy Wehr and Caregiver Specialist Dr. Earnestine Thomas. For the second segment, Jackie is joined by Office of Veterans and Military Families Manager Lisa Terry for a discussion about our veteran and military family experience in our country and county as we celebrate Veterans Day this coming weekend.

Be sure to stay tuned on Buzzsprout or check out HoCo Community Chat wherever you listen to your podcasts, to hear about all the resources and support DCRS has to offer its community caregivers, veterans and military families.

DCRS also recently dropped a new episode of HoCo Community Chat en Español. For her latest episode and just in time for the approaching winter season, Cris Oviedo, producer and talent of the podcast Conectados, is joined by OAI Administrator Ofelia Ross Ott to talk about our Latinx community and the available resources for people 50 and older who may be food insecure. Escucha ahora!

If there is something specific you want to hear about, I encourage you to email DCRS at communityresources@howardcountymd.gov.

Support the Howard County Diaper Project and Help Howard County Families in Need

Did you know that one in three families in America struggles to afford diapers for their children? No family should have to choose between paying for food or clean diapers. 

Help give local parents peace of mind this holiday season by donating today to this year’s Diaper Drive. Hosted by OCF and the Community Action Council of Howard County, Inc. (CAC), every dollar contributed to the Howard County Diaper Project will go toward purchasing diapers and wipes to distribute to low-income families in need. Donate today by clicking here or stop by Howard County Family Support Center or the Howard County Food Bank tomorrow, November 28th to donate in person.

For questions and/or more information about the drive, contact OCF at 410-313-2273 or email children@howardcountymd.gov. 

Help Spread Some Holiday Cheer this Season 

Each holiday season, DCRS’s OAI launches its annual Project Holiday, an initiative designed to collect and deliver holiday gifts to county residents residing in assisted living facilities, nursing homes and older adults in the community who could use a little extra cheer. 

Now through next Wednesday, December 6th, residents can drop off donations of new/unopened gifts items – ranging from colored pencils and markers to adult coloring books, crossword puzzle books, word search books, toothbrushes, toothpaste and more, at DCRS’s main office in Columbia, any one of OAI’s 50+ Centers, Howard County Library System’s (HCLS) Central Branch, Howard County MultiService Center or The Loan Closet of Howard County.

For a complete list of acceptable items, including how to send a monetary donation and/or if you have questions or need assistance, visit OAI’s “Project Holiday” webpage today.

Last year, thanks to your help, OAI was able to deliver gifts to more than 240 older adults in Howard County. Won’t you help us spread some more holiday cheer this year?

Medicare Open Enrollment Counseling Now Available

To assist Howard County Medicare beneficiaries of any age decide review, switch or enroll in a drug plan during this Medicare Open Enrollment, DCRS’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) team is here to help. Whether you are new to Medicare or have had it for some time, our trained staff and Certified Medicare Counselors provide free, unbiased assistance for questions and concerns. 

Available at all 50+ Centers throughout the enrollment season (which ends December 7th), SHIP Medicare Open Enrollment appointments are available as follows:

• Bain 50+ Center: Monday through Friday, during regular business hours
• Elkridge 50+ Center: December 1st, 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• North Laurel 50+ Center: November 30th, 9:00 a.m. to noon

To schedule an appointment today, call 410-313-7392. SHIP also offers educational Medicare presentations remotely and the upcoming schedule can be found HERE. 

Hot Topics in Consumer Protection and Advocacy Public Forum

On Saturday, December 9th, I invite you to join DCRS’s Office of Consumer Protection for a public forum highlighting “Hot Topics in Consumer Protection and Advocacy.” Set to take place from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at our Ellicott City 50+ Center, this event will feature a resource fair, presentations from local, state and federal legislators, and a Q&A session. Topics to be covered include elder abuse, arbitration, credit/debt, scams, recent federal/state legislation, anticipated/pending legislation and more. To reserve your spot for this free event, click HERE today. 

Howard County Health Department

Community Flu Vaccine Clinics

It's fall and that means it's respiratory virus season. To help, the Howard County Health Department (HCHD) is once again offering its free seasonal flu shot clinics. For a list of upcoming flu clinic dates and registration information, visit HCHD's Seasonal Flu webpage today. Individuals can also call 410-313-6284 for registration assistance.

Office of Human Rights and Equity

Reading Human Rights – The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee by David Treuer

Reading Human Rights is an award-winning monthly book discussion group hosted by our Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) and HCLS that encourages literary exploration and community dialogue around a variety of human rights concerns. It explores works of fiction and non-fiction to teach community members the various ways individuals, cultures and communities celebrate their identities and combat injustice.

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, for its November book discussion – to be held tomorrow, November 28th at 6:30 p.m. at HCLS’s Elkridge Branch, OHRE will take a deep dive into Native American history in David Treuer’s The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee: Native America From 1890 to the Present. In this work of non-fiction, Treuer introduces readers to a sweeping history – and counter-narrative – of Native American life from the Wounded Knee massacre to the present.

To secure your seat for this month’s event, click HERE today to register.

Commissioners Wanted

As part of its responsibility, OHRE staffs five County Government Commissions: the Human Rights Commission, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission, the LGBTQIA+ Commission, La Alianza Latina Commission and the Asian American & Pacific Islander Commission. Comprised of Howard County resident volunteers, the following commissions are looking for new members: 

• Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission – three new adult commissioners;
• LGBQIA+ Commission – three new adult commissioners and one college student;
• La Alianza Latina Commission – one new adult commissioners and one high school student; and
• AAPI Commission – one college student.

If you or someone you know is interested in joining one of ORHE’s Commissions and participating in the planning of educational programming, creating advocacy resources for residents and ensuring equity and justice for all here in Howard County, click HERE to apply today!

Department of Planning and Zoning

Route 1 Tax Credit Program

Our Department of Planning and Zoning is now accepting applications for this year’s Route 1 Tax Credit program! If you own a commercial or industrial property on the Route 1 Corridor, you may be eligible to receive up to $100,000 of tax credit for qualified façade and landscape improvements visible from the Corridor area. Eligible improvements include building façade upgrades, new signage, exterior painting and lighting, screening and landscaping, and other options. 

For more information or to apply, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/Route1TaxCredit.

Police Department

Staying Safe on the Roads and Shopping this Holiday Season

Throughout this holiday season, Howard County Police Department (HCPD) will be working to ensure your safety on the roads, at shopping centers and malls, and in your neighborhoods. While our officers will be doing all that they can to keep you safe, here are some tips and best practices on how you too can stay vigilant and safe on the roads and when shopping (whether in-person or online) this season. 

Remember: 

• When shopping, travel with a group or in pairs, and schedule shopping trips during the day.
• Stay alert, especially when carrying packages or walking on a parking lot or in a garage.
• Avoid carrying too many packages, and leave one hand free to access keys or a phone quickly.
• Park in a well-lit parking space, and select an area where there are other cars and foot traffic.
• Don’t leave cell phones, purses or other valuables in a parked car – especially in plain view.
• When loading packages into the car, use the trunk instead of the back seat.
• Beware of strangers approaching you unsolicited. Walk in another direction if you feel uncomfortable.
• When the holidays are over, don’t put boxes for electronics or valuables in plain view on recycling day, break them down first.

When shopping online, remember these tips from HCPD to protect yourself from online scammers and “porch pirates”:

• Only shop on secure, reputable websites. Beware of deals that seem too good to be true on websites you do not recognize. Also be cautious when opening unfamiliar e-mails advertising deals as they may be phishing attempts. 
• Once your purchases are made, track shipments and request to receive notification when they are delivered. Request that the delivery service leave the package in a less-obvious location, like a side or back door, that cannot be seen from the sidewalk.
• If you are not home when the package arrives, ask a trusted neighbor to take the package inside until you get home. Or, if permitted, have the shipment delivered to your work. 
• Consider installing a doorbell camera to be notified whenever someone comes to your door.

Finally, as always, report suspicious activity in your neighborhood to HCPD by calling 911 or the non-emergency number at 410-313-2200. Your one call could help your neighbors from being victimized.

Department of Public Works

Bureau of Environmental Services

Entries Sought for Coloring Book Contest

Calling all Howard County third, fourth and fifth graders, our Bureau of Environmental Services invites you to participate in its annual Coloring Book Contest, which allows students to demonstrate their awareness and appreciation for our environment, while promoting the importance of the three R’s: “Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.” To learn more about this year’s contest and how to participate, click HERE.

Bureau of Utilities 

Cryptosporidium Update

An independent, certified water quality laboratory has once again confirmed that there is no detection of Cryptosporidium in the County's drinking water samples. The County's Department of Public Works (DPW) will continue to conduct weekly testing of our public water system to confirm the quality of our water through December. 

For the most up-to-date information regarding this matter, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/Cryptosporidium. 

Public Works Construction Report

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.

US 1 Driving Surface Improvement Project

Starting this evening, November 27th at 8:00 p.m., the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) will close one travel lane along US 1 to begin overnight work to improve the pavement along this stretch of roadway between MD 32 and MD 175 in Jessup. Work will take place nightly from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., Sundays through Thursdays and weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by mid-December. 

The project will include the ramps at the US 1 and MD 32 interchange; however, only one ramp will be closed overnight. During this time, motorists will be directed to take the next exit on MD 32 or US 1 to turn around and access another exit ramp at the interchange.  

Electronic signs, barrels and cones will be in place to alert motorists about the single-lane closure and guide them safely through the work zone. While SHA works hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones for its crews as well as its customers, motorists are reminded to stay alert, focus on driving, and look for reduced speed limits, as well as other driving pattern changes. Drive like you work here and slowdown in construction zones. Motorists in need may dial #77 on their mobile devices for roadside assistance.   

For more information about this project, click HERE or contact SHA at 410-545-0303.

Department of Recreation and Parks

Winter Activity Guide Now Available

If you haven’t heard, Recreation & Parks’ 2024 Winter Activity Guide is now available online! With hundreds of great programs, activities and events to choose from, there is something for everyone to help chase those winter blues away. 

Remember, online registration for Howard County residents begins next Wednesday, December 6th at 6:00 p.m., with in-person, over-the-phone and mail-in beginning the following day at 8:00 a.m. For out-of-county residents, online registration for you begins the following week, December 13th, at 6:00 p.m.

County residents, be sure to keep an eye out on your mailbox for your print copy. You can also pick up a hard copy at Recreation & Parks' headquarters, located at 7120 Oakland Mills Road in Columbia, at any one of our community centers or your local library branch. 

Let’s Get Crafty 

Back again for another magical year, Recreation & Parks’ Holiday Mart returns to its Gary J. Arthur Community Center this Saturday, December 2nd from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The place to find unique handcrafted items and home décor for everyone on your list, come find seasonal gifts and merchandise created by more than 100 juried artisans. Food will also be available to purchase and the event will feature a children’s craft corner, and more. Cost is $4 per person presale online and $5 at the door; children four and under are free.

Girls Winter Flag Football on Turf 

Calling all girls who want to have a blast while learning the fundamentals of flag football. Starting Sunday, December 10th, girls age seven to 12 years old are invited to join Recreation & Parks at the state-of-the-art GOALS facility in Catonsville on Sunday mornings for an unforgettable flag football experience.  

Learn the essential skills and fundamentals to take your game to the next level. Improve your catching, passing and running techniques to become a well-rounded athlete. Enhance your agility and speed with specialized drills and exercises. 

To enroll now and be a part of the Flag Football Winter on the Turf family, click HERE today! 

All Aboard the Holiday Train Garden!

This holiday season, I invite each and everyone of you to stop by our Department of Recreation & Parks’ Baltimore and Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum to enjoy train models set up throughout the museum, including the year-round exhibit in the Freight House. Geared towards all ages, all are sure to love this annual holiday tradition. 

To learn more about our Baltimore & Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum, including its hours of operations, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/ecborail.