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Dear Friends,
More than two years ago, we broke ground in East Columbia for the long-awaited 50+ Center, where approximately 40 percent of Howard County’s older adults reside. The current East Columbia 50+ Center, built in 1994, is approximately 3,800 square feet and is collocated within the East Columbia Library. Plans to renovate and expand the center began in 2014, with the first phase being identified in 2015. However, it wasn’t until 2019 that we began to make real progress.
In less than two weeks, we will be cutting the ribbon on this new, state-of-the art 29,000 square foot, freestanding building. Join us as we celebrate progress in our collective commitment to provide the best services and facilities for our residents of all ages.
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Among the Best
Our Department of Corrections team is diligent and committed to the safety and well-being of our community, our staff, and inmates. It is no surprise that we are only the second local jurisdiction in our State to earn prestigious national accreditation from the American Correctional Association.
This peer review proves we are among the best, at not just supplying the basic levels of health care and meals and safety, but offering hope and opportunity for a better future. Our detainees are treated with respect and provided programs to improve so they can be productive members of our community when released.
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Aging in Place Tax Credit
This Friday, the Aging in Place tax credit applications open!
Eligibility for the tax credit requires a minimum age of 65 years old, and at least 30 years, as of June 30th preceding the tax year, residing in a dwelling with an assessed property value up to $650,000.
The number of years qualifying individuals may receive the credit is eight years. The credit will automatically renew unless the homeowner is no longer eligible. The deadline to apply will be June 30, 2024.
Learn more about our tax credits at www.howardcountymd.gov/finance/tax-credits.
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The Inspirational Jennifer Jones
This Black History Month, we are continuing to celebrate some of our amazing county leaders. One of whom is none other than our distinguished Howard County Economic Development Authority CEO, Jennifer Jones, a Howard County native and proud Wilde Lake High School graduate. In her role she is an essential part of our business community, helping thousands of businesses and entrepreneurs reach their full potential.
In addition to being a champion for businesses in the county, she also serves various community boards, including the NAACP, Downtown Columbia Partnership, Howard County Center of African American Culture, and Columbia Festival of the Arts. This month, please join me in celebrating Jennifer and her invaluable contributions to Howard County and beyond.
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A Prowling Good Time
It is always a pleasure to join our youngest students to celebrate Black History Month. It was a joy visiting Ms. Scible’s class at Running Brook Elementary School to read When The Schools Shut Down: A Young Girl's Story of Virginia's Lost Generation and the Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka Decision by Yolanda Gladden and Dr. Tamera Pizzoli. This story tells the powerful story of a girl who lived during the shutdown of schools during the landmark civil rights case Brown v. Board of Education.
Thank you to Dr. Anderson, Principal Spivey and all our Panthers for hosting another incredible celebration!
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Serving Democracy
Are you ready to make a difference in our democratic process? Howard County is looking for Election Judges, and this could be your chance to contribute! As an Election Judge, you get the unique opportunity to be directly involved in the election process, and get paid for your efforts.
If you're 16 or older and a registered voter in Maryland, you're eligible to become an Election Judge. We're looking for people who are ready for a rewarding 15-hour day, can work outside their home precinct, are able to sit and stand for extended periods, and have proficiency in English. Some positions may require lifting items weighing between 10 to 25 lbs.
Sign up today and be a part of this crucial democratic process! Learn more at http://tinyurl.com/ElectionJudge24.
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ShimmySista
This Black History Month, we are continuing to highlight the amazing Black businesses that have chosen to make Howard County home. One such businesses is The Boutique by ShimmySista, a clothing store with the perfect clothing and accessories for our fashion lovers. The selection at their Columbia location is always evolving and new, so you’re sure to find something unique. You can learn more about them here: https://shimmysista.com/.
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Livable Homes
The Livable Homes tax credit is available for certain types of accessibility features installed in a principal residence. The feature must have been installed in an existing primary residence. The amount of the credit is equal to 100% of the eligible cost or $2500, whichever is less. The application for tax year 2024 is due April 1, 2024.
To learn more about how to apply for this credit, please visit www.howardcountymd.gov/finance/tax-credits.
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Combating Gang
Every day, our tireless public servants at the Howard County Police Department, State’s Attorney’s Office and Sheriff’s Office work collaboratively to ensure the public safety of all our residents and visitors. While a majority of the work they do is unseen by many in our community, their efforts do not go unnoticed. Thanks to their tremendous work, our community is a little safer. We will continue to combat gangs that perpetrate violent crimes that terrorize our neighbors. Read more in The Daily Record.
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An Artful Celebration
This year’s Black History Month theme is “African Americans and the Arts,” and there is no better time to celebrate our black artists such as Taurean Washington Studios. During his art show at Slayton House, Taurean showcased his incredible talent that displays black history and culture.
For more information on Taurean, I encourage you to visit his website at www.taureanwashingtonstudios.com.
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A Strong Economic Outlook
We are facing a pivotal time for Howard County’s future. This post-pandemic era has left us with an uncertain global economy, but here in Howard County we are embracing a brand new day and setting a strong foundation for the future. Let me unequivocally say that here, in Howard County, the State of Business is strong. Our future is bigger, bolder and brighter.
Check out this recent The Baltimore Sun article to learn more about Howard County’s strong economic outlook.
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Sweet Treats To-Go
During Black History Month, we are highlighting the incredible black-owned businesses who help our economy and community thrive. One entrepreneur, who adds a little sugar to our economy, is Aisha Applewhite. Her bakery, AppleCore's Bake Shoppe, is an incredible go-to for any sweet treats. You can find anything from Oreo cheesecake and cranberry toasted nut cookies to delectable bread pudding. They even have vegan options!
Order anytime online, and they offer curbside pick-up Wednesday through Saturday. This Black History Month and all year long, be sure to indulge in your sweet tooth by visiting https://www.applecorebakes.com/.
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B-I-G Budget Hearing
We continue to develop our FY25 budget, we want to ensure it will be a reflection of our shared goals and priorities. I encourage residents to join us for our second Residents’ Budget Hearing for the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) budget cycle on Thursday, March 7th at 6:00 p.m.
This hearing provides an important opportunity for our residents to offer input and make their voices heard. While we have faced many challenges, I’m confident Howard County will remain resilient and responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars while advancing the programs that provide the best possible quality of life for all.
Residents can sign-up online to speak at the hearing by going to www.howardcountymd.gov/budgettestimony. Speakers who have a document or record they wish to submit with their testimony are asked to email the file to
budgettestimony@howardcountymd.gov, with “BUDGET TESTIMONY” in the subject line.
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My Dear Friend, Delegate Frank Turner
Another outstanding Howard County resident to honor during Black History Month is none other than my dear friend, former Delegate Frank S. Turner. Delegate Turner was the representative for Howard County and District 13 in the Maryland House of Delegates for 24 years. Not only did he remain committed to representing constituents throughout his political career, but he also maintained his passion or educating students at Morgan State University.
This dedication earned him the Governor’s Distinguished Public Service Award, as well as the Legislative Black Caucus of MD recognizing his contributions with a Legislative Service Award. Even after his professional career, he continues to be a powerful force in our community. Please join me in recognizing him for his endless contributions to our county, state, and world!
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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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Applicants Sought for Ethics Commission
Our system of representative government is dependent upon our residents maintaining the highest trust in their public officials and officers. Our Ethics Commission plays a vital role in ensuring this trust is maintained and that our officials and officers are upheld to the highest standards and maintain the highest ethical stance. If you are interested in being a member of our Ethics Commission, I encourage you to apply today. To learn how, click HERE.
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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 by 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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Here to Support our Caregivers
Despite their selfless commitment to loved ones, caregivers often face numerous challenges and uncertainties. To empower our caregivers so they are able to navigate their caregiver journey confidently, DCRS’s Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) has partnered with Trualta. Trualta offers on-demand assistance to caregivers tailored to their needs, with resources ranging from educational modules to personalized coaching and access to a supportive community. To learn more about how Trualta can support you or someone you care about, visit https://hococaregivers.trualta.com/ today.
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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. Available at our 50+ Centers now through March 28th, this challenge 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 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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Office of Community Sustainability | |
LED Light Bulb Exchange Program Expands!
As I recently announced the expansion of the County’s Office of Community Sustainability’s (OCS) free light-emitting diode (LED) light bulb exchange program to all Howard County Library System (HCLS) branches. Offered in partnership with HCLS, Howard County residents can visit any local HCLS branch to exchange used incandescent and compact fluorescent (CFL) light bulbs for new, energy efficient LED bulbs.
While supplies last, Howard County residents can visit the circulation desk at any HCLS branch to exchange their used CFL or incandescent light bulbs for up to four free, new LED bulbs (an A19 bulb shape). All types of bulb shapes will be accepted for exchange, except for tube lights.
| Department of County Administration | |
We Want to Hear From You!
The County and our design consultant, Arcadis, will host a series of in-person and virtual community meetings from February 27th to March 21st to gather community feedback about how a new, future Howard County Library System Central branch can best benefit Downtown Columbia and all of Howard County. There are five potential sites being considered that will be presented to the public as options, including a site in the Merriweather District, two different sites in the Lakefront District, a site at The Mall in Columbia and the existing Central branch site.
To learn more about these meetings and how you can participate, click HERE.
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Senior Tax Credit
The Senior Tax Credit, a credit of 25% of the county property tax, is available to residents aged 65 and older with a combined household income of $102,200 or less and net assets under $500,000, not including the value of their home.
Applicants with income less than $60,000 are required to apply for the State of Maryland Homeowner Property Tax Credit.
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Trash, Bay, Watershed Protection Fee Hardship Tax Credit
Homeowners with limited income may qualify for a 60 percent credit against the Trash Fee and Watershed Protection Fee and an exemption from the State Bay Fee.
A family of four may qualify with income up to $78,000 for tax year 2024. Renters may also qualify for an exemption from the State Bay Fee.
The deadline to apply for this tax credit is June 30, 2024. Seniors who receive the Senior tax credit will receive the hardship credit.
| Office of Human Rights and Equity | |
Black History Month Author Event
Join OHRE, the Howard County Library System (HCLS), the African American Community Roundtable of Howard County, the Howard County Chapter of the NAACP and the Continental Societies, Inc. Columbia, Maryland Chapter this Wednesday, February 28th at 6:00 p.m., as they come together to celebrate Black History Month with a feature author event at HCLS’s Elkridge branch. Author Jonathan McKinney will share his memoir, The Little Black Boy, which discusses his personal story of growing up on Detroit’s East Side and the challenges he faced during an era marred by gangs, crack, violence and systemic racism. The Little Black Boy is a story of survival, redemption and the power of forgiveness.
Light refreshments will be served and the first 20 people to arrive will receive a free signed copy of McKinney's book. Copies will also be available for purchase and signing at the event, and copies can also be borrowed using your HCLS Library Card.
To sign-up to participate in this FREE event, click HERE.
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The State of Black Affairs in Howard County
OHRE has partnered with the African American Community Roundtable, the Howard County Chapter of the NAACP, St. John's Baptist Church, Columbia Community Care, the Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation and The Flowers Home Team to host “The State of Black Affairs in Howard County” this Thursday, February 29th at 6:00 p.m. at St. John's Baptist Church in Columbia. This event will offer residents and elected officials the opportunity to learn about the concerns and issues facing African American residents in Howard County. To register to join in this important forum, click HERE todays as tickets are going fast. Dinner will be provided.
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Trans Day of Visibility Celebration
Trans adults, trans teens, their families and allies, I invite you to join OHRE and our LGBTQIA+ Commission on Sunday, March 31st for the County’s first-ever Trans Day of Visibility Celebration. Featuring an all-inspiring talent show, open mic, great food and opportunities for community connection, this event aims to bring together our local trans community to elevate trans voices in an affirming environment. To sign up to attend this celebration on the 31st, set to begin at 4:00 p.m. at Busboys and Poets in Columbia, click HERE today.
If you're interested in performing at the celebration, click HERE for an application. The deadline to apply to be a performer is next, Sunday, March 10th.
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2024 Humanity Matters Conference
Mark your calendar and join OHRE on Monday, May 6th for its social justice conference, “Humanity Matters.” The conference will take place at Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the 6th and will bring together human and civil rights professionals in government, education, non-profits and for-profit businesses.
The conference will feature panel discussions and various breakout sessions, as well as a keynote address by Chad Lassiter – Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission Executive Director and member of the Presidential Advisory Commission on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence and Economic Opportunity for Black Americans.
Through this conference, OHRE hopes each attendee will gain practical tools they can implement into their daily work, new connections they can tap into for collaboration and the inspiration to continue to innovate and produce substantive and transformational work.
The cost to participate is $125 per ticket and includes a continental breakfast and lunch. However, for groups interested in buying 10 or more tickets, please contact Dr. Denise Boston with OHRE at equity@howardcountymd.gov to inquire about the group rate discount. Please keep in mind, there will be no refunds for tickets purchased beginning March 15th.
To reserve your spot at this year’s Humanity Matters social justice conference, click HERE.
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Important OHRE Commission Public Meeting Dates
Under our Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) are five Commissions committed to furthering human rights and equity throughout Howard County in their own very distinct capacities. Each month, these Commission’s host meetings, public hearings and/or retreats open to the public to discuss ongoing/upcoming matters, events, programs and so on. For dates, times and details regarding upcoming Commission meetings, please see below:
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Monday, March 4th, 5:30 p.m. and Tuesday, March 12th, 5:30 p.m. – Human Rights Commission Public Hearing regarding HRC Case No. 21-12-012 Rolonda Williams v. Stephanie Knarr, LLC, operating as Dr. Stephanie’s Relationship Repair Shop. To attend, email HRC@howardcountymd.gov.
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Thursday, March 14th, 6:30 p.m. – LGBTQIA+ Commission meeting. To attend, email LGBTQIA@howardcountymd.gov.
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Tuesday, March 19th, 6:15 p.m. – La Alianza Latina Commission monthly meeting. To attend, alianzalatina@howardcountymd.gov.
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Department of Planning and Zoning | |
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Stay in the Know About the Future of Gateway
Stay in the know about our Department of Planning and Zoning’s (DPZ) Gateway Master Plan by visiting the Plan's website, www.howardcountymd.gov/gateway, where you can also sign up to receive future Gateway Master Plan updates.
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Route 1 Tax Credit Program
DPZ is 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: www.howardcountymd.gov/Route1TaxCredit.
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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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Department of Public Works | |
Bureau of Environmental Services | |
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Special Household Hazardous Waste Days
While the the County’s Department of Public Works’ (DPW) 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 this 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.
| Transportation and Special Projects Division | |
Snowden River Parkway and Broken Land Parkway Intersection Improvements Public Meeting
DPW’s Transportation and Special Projects Division will hold a public meeting next Thursday, March 7th from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria at Hammond High School in Columbia, to present plans for an intersection improvement project at Snowden River Parkway and Broken Land Parkway. This project will facilitate the safe and efficient flow of local commuter, bicycle and pedestrian traffic movements from the westbound MD 32 off-ramp onto Broken Land Parkway and at the intersection of Snowden River Parkway and Broken Land Parkway.
To learn more about this project and meeting, click HERE.
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Residential Water Meter’s Replacement Program
With 16,000 meters left to be replaced, DPW’s Bureau of Utilities continues its residential water meter replacement program as existing water meters in the system approach the end of their useful life. It is vital these meters replaced to ensure accurate and timely water usage data. .
To complete the water meter replacement program quickly and efficiently, the County has contracted with Vanguard Utility Service. Residents will receive notification in the mail prior to meter installers arriving in their neighborhood with instructions on how to schedule an appointment.
To learn more, click HERE. For questions or concerns, contact the Bureau of Utilities at 410-313-4900.
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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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Spring/Summer Activity Guide Registration Up Next!
With online, over-the-phone, mail-in and in-person registration fully underway for Recreation & Parks' 2024 Summer Camp Guide, now is the time to start thinking about the department’s spring and summer activity, event and program offerings. From cooking and fitness classes, to sports, lifelong learning, camping, dance, science, technology, LEGO and more, there is something to keep everyone in your family active this spring and summer.
To start your planning, check out a digital copy of Recreation & Parks’ Spring/Summer 2024 Activity Guide. Online registration for the guide begins 6:00 p.m., next Wednesday, March 6th for Howard County residents; with mail-in, over-the-phone and in-person starting the next morning. For out-of-county residents, online registration begins for you on Wednesday, March 13th at 6:00 p.m., with all other registration forms available the following day.
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Out of this World
Join our Recreation & Parks’ Robinson Nature Center team next Friday, March 8th from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. as the team celebrates International Women’s Day with its “Out of this World – Women in Space” event! Come enjoy a night sky planetarium show, hands-on astronomy activities and space themed crafts, as participants learn all about women in space science careers and their journeys. Attendees will also learn all about NASA’s upcoming Artemis mission that will send the first woman to the moon!
This program is geared towards participants age six and older and the cost to participate is $17 per person. To register for this space-tacular event, click HERE.
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The Gold Rush
Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, this month’s Recreation & Parks’ scavenger hunt will have participants searching for gold coins, and if they are lucky, maybe even a pot of gold, from its North Laurel Community Center (NLCC) through North Laurel Park and back to the field.
Open to all ages, I invite you to grab your family and friends and join Recreation & Parks’ for this Gold Rush scavenger hunt on Saturday, March 9th from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Cost is $10 for NLCC members and $15 for nonmembers. To register, click HERE.
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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. Celebrating its 30th year, I invite you to come celebrate the charm and character of an event that has aged to perfection.
Tickets are set to go on sale in March, so be 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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Office of Workforce Development | |
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How to Navigate a Job Fair
Howard County youth aged 14 to 24 years old, I invite you to check out our Office of Workforce Development’s (OWD) “How to Navigate a Job Fair” event this Saturday, March 2nd to learn more about navigating the workforce and successfully securing employment. Set to take place from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Oakland Mills Middle School, this FREE event will teach participants how to:
- Navigate a job fair;
- Dress to land the job you want;
- Write a winning resume;
- Complete a job application and
- Enhance your interviewing skills.
As space limited, pre-registration is required for this event. To register for this upcoming event – a preparatory step and precursor for OWD’s upcoming Youth Opportunity Fair on April 6th, click HERE today.
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