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Dear Friends,
Previously known as the Mrytle Woods Farms, new owners Bill and Ryan Rodgers of Morningside Farm are continuing the legacy of growing vegetables using natural techniques with an emphasis on soil health. Fresh produce can be bought on their website or at their pop-up farm stand every Saturday.
Please, continue to support our small, local farms! To learn more about Morningside Farm, check out its website at www.morningsidefarmmd.com.
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First Since 2005
Slated to open in less than two weeks, Guilford Park High School is a national model of partnership to build the best educational facilities for all. This 77-acre property is filled with endless opportunities for our students and educators to become their best selves. Through our diligent and collaborative efforts, we are ensuring every student and educator has the best teaching and learning environment for all.
Here is another behind the scenes look at the county’s first new high school to open since 2005 (check out this video from last week for another look).
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Dreaming of Homeownership
Do you have dreams of owning your own home in Howard County but can’t cover the down payment?
You may be eligible to participate in our Settlement Downpayment Loan Program (SDLP)! Howard County’s SDLP program provides families of eligible income with a low-interest loan that helps cover the down payment and closing costs for home purchases.
Applications are accepted year-round by the Department of Housing and Community Development. Your dreams of homeownership are within reach, and Howard County can help bring that vision to reality. To learn more about the program and how to apply, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/DHCD-SDLP.
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7 Years of Strength
Seven years ago, we endured a devastating flash flood, in Ellicott City, causing immeasurable suffering to our community, as the nation and world watched.
The water destroyed beloved businesses and damaged homes, but most significantly, we lost Jessica Watsula and Joseph Blevins. Our hearts are with their families and our community who continue to mourn their losses.
Historic Ellicott City’s grit, strength, and resilience is an inspiration to all of us. Since taking office in 2018, we have made significant progress in preparing for the next storm, which will come one day, through our comprehensive EC Safe and Sound flood mitigation plan.
We will continue to stand with Ellicott City, making the investments and doing the work necessary to ensure that our historic town is safer and better prepared for another 250 years and beyond!
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World Day Against Trafficking in Persons
Reach every victim of trafficking, leave no one behind. That’s the message from the United Nations in honor of July 30th World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.
Are you aware that global conflicts, displacement and socio-economic inequalities are impacting millions of people worldwide, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation by traffickers?
Leaving people behind means:
1. failing to end the exploitation of trafficking victims
2. failing to support victim-survivors once they are free from their traffickers
3. leaving identifiable groups vulnerable to traffickers
Want to help locally? Contact our Office of Human Trafficking Prevention: www.howardcountymd.gov/human-trafficking-prevention.
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Accessible Playground in Highland
The Schooley Mill Playground was designed to be an age-friendly model of inclusion for all and includes unique features to accommodate those with different cognitive, communicative, social/emotional, and sensory abilities. Inclusion was a priority at every step of this project, from the parking lot to a wheelchair accessible merry-go-round. This new playground will inspire children of all ages and abilities to stay engaged and active while encouraging healthy social interaction with others.
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Energizing Grants
Uplifting our local small businesses so they can thrive can help uplift our community. Howard County is proud to partner with BGE and provide significant funding into the Energizing Small Business Grant Program, which will extend funding to nearly 30 more businesses in our community.
When business leaders and government officials partner to support our local businesses, it creates more opportunities for our community to prosper. Learn more and apply at https://helloalice.com/grants/bge/.
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The Best Parks Nationwide!
Howard County has one of the best Recreation and Parks Departments in the nation. This accolade is evidenced in Howard County Recreation and Parks’ three of our 51 National Association of Counties awards this year.
This year, DRP received awards for the Harriet Tubman Cultural Center, the Children’s Transformation Garden at the Robinson Nature Center, and to Scott Lawrence for his exceptional volunteerism.
These programs and volunteer help foster an exceptional quality of life for all!
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World Nature Conservation Day
World Nature Conservation Day stresses the importance of preserving a healthy environment and natural resources to maintain a stable and healthy society.
Howard County is a leader in environmental protection and is home to so many unique and vital programs that will help us preserve our environment for future generations to come.
In celebration, I recently joined the Community Ecology Institute at the Green Farmacy Garden, a unique teaching garden based on the work of world-renowned ethnobotanist Dr. James A. Duke, who passed away in 2017.
During his ownership of the farm, Dr. Duke and his wife Peggy curated more than 300 plant species traditionally used and/or researched for their medicinal properties. Thank you to CEI for hosting me and my team as we work together to help this truly beautiful and peaceful place flourish, preserving our flora, fauna, and other natural resources.
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Learning More About Ecology
As we continue to support our young people, we are excited to partner with the Community Ecology Institute for our Youth Engagement Programming (YEP!) initiative.
Through the YEP! program, Community Ecology Institute is hosting two programs for youth between the ages of 14 and 21. These include the expanded Green Seeds Internship program and the Second Friday Fires program, which welcomes young people to Freetown Farm every month for an evening of community building and activities.
To learn more about the Community Ecology Institute’s program and to register, please visit: https://www.communityecologyinstitute.org/green-seeds....
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Trees for Bees
Howard County is leading the way in the fight for energy independence and to protect our pollinators. Since 2018, we have given away more than 65,000 trees, and our Trees for Bees program helps ensure that our pollinators and climate are protected.
To ensure this program is a success, our Department of Communication and Technology Resources created a seamless rollout to ensure everyone could claim a tree and do their part to protect our environment.
See why this program received one of our 51 NACo awards this year here!
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Celebrating the Brilliant Young Minds Powering our Community's Future
On July 27th, we celebrated the brilliant young minds that power our community's future! As an educator, I deeply understand the significance of pouring into our youth and providing them with abundant opportunities. It is an absolute pleasure to invest in our youth and witness their remarkable growth as they shape our society.
Our youth are the bedrock of our community, and their potential knows no bounds. By empowering them with knowledge, skills, and support, we ensure a brighter tomorrow for all. Together, we create a nurturing environment that fosters creativity, innovation, and inclusivity.
So, here's to the interns, the dreamers, and the visionaries of tomorrow! Your passion and dedication inspire us all, and we are committed to offering you the tools and resources needed to flourish. Together, we build a stronger and more vibrant Howard County for generations to come.
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Staying Safe When It’s Extremely Hot
With summer still going hard and the possibility of another heat wave sweeping across our region, here are some great tips to keep in mind when the heat and humidity are extreme and it’s sweltering outside.
- If you must be out in the heat, wear light-colored, light-weight, loose-fitting clothing, a hat and sunscreen.
- Stay well hydrated. Drink water and caffeine-free liquids. Avoid alcoholic beverages. (Alcoholic beverages do not keep you hydrated.)
- Stay out of the sun during the hours of 10:00a.m. and 3:00p.m.
- Take frequent rest breaks in air conditioned or shaded environments.
- Check on elderly friends, family and neighbors. Be aware of the symptoms of heat related illness: extreme weakness, muscle cramps, nausea, headache, possible vomiting or fainting, dry red skin.
- NEVER leave children or pets unattended in a parked car or other hot environment.
For additional heat safety resources, check out the Howard County Health Department’s "Emergency Preparedness" website.
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Honoring Those We Have Lost
This past Thursday, July 27th, on the 70th anniversary of the Korean Armistice Agreement, Howard County joined the national commemoration of more than 35,000 U.S. service members who lost their lives during the Korean War. The legacy of the ongoing partnership between the U.S. and South Korea is present in our vibrant Korean American community in Howard County.
Every day, but especially each year on July 27th, we remember and honor those from Howard County who gave the ultimate sacrifice: CPL William H. Bright, PFC Kenneth E. Butler, PFC Edward L. Martin, PFC Alphonso H. Plonk, CPL Bryant A. Terry and PFC William H. Wehland. They will never be forgotten for their devotion to our country and our freedoms.
We’re so thankful to have partners like the League of Korean Americans and the Korean Society of Maryland for hosting events in recognition of this important day and in honor of those we have lost.
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Ensuring Howard County is the Best
Our Department of Public Works continues to provide our community with world-class services and facilities, earning six of our 51 National Association of Counties awards this year. Our Bureau of Facilities earned three for their efforts on the Waterloo Fire Station, the Harriet Tubman Cultural Center and the Capital Budget Tracking Tool, respectively. Our Bureau of Utilities earned two awards for their Fire Hydrant Replacement Program and the Biosolids Product Marketing Program. Lastly, our Bureau of Engineering received an award for its Online Right-of-Way Utility Permitting process.
It is evident that due to our collective efforts, we’re ensuring Howard County is the best place to live, work, play, and grow for all.
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The Perfect Time to Plant a New Tree
Our Department of Recreation & Parks has several programs to provide free trees, and possibly planting services, for qualifying Howard County properties. Residents are then responsible for the care and maintenance of the trees.
To learn more about and apply for the Turf to Trees (1.5 acre-10 acre properties), Stream ReLeaf (properties near streams), and Tree Canopy (planting neighborhoods with lower tree coverage) program, visit HERE.
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Shaping an Inclusive Future for All
On July 26, 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed one of the most powerful, life-changing pieces of legislation for people with disabilities – the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In recognition of its 33rd anniversary, we continue our efforts to shape the future in which persons with disabilities enjoy all fundamental freedoms and live their best lives.
Since the ADA was passed, facilities are now designed with flat or ramp entrances, and automatic doors, sidewalks have curb cuts and ramps, and buses, trains and other modes of public transportation are accessible to people who use wheelchairs or have hearing or vision impairments.
Here in Howard County, we aspire to be the national model for inclusion and accessibility for our neighbors of all abilities. While we have made significant progress, there is still more work ahead. July is also Disability Pride Month, and the perfect opportunity to push the boundaries for a more inclusive and accessible society.
Today, throughout these fleeting summer days and beyond, I encourage you to consider:
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Visiting one of the many inclusive playgrounds in Howard County: Laura’s Place at Blandair Regional Park – North, Schooley Mill Park or Centennial Park – North.
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Taking a walk on the accessible trail at Haviland Mill Park or walk the path at Centennial Lake.
- Hiring or hire a person with a disability at your place of business.
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Changes are Coming to Maryland Medicaid
This year, Maryland Medicaid renewals won't be automatic. People on Medicaid may no longer be able to continue receiving benefits if they have not completed their renewal. Please, be sure to follow these three steps to ensure you remain insured!
1. Update your contact information.
2. Be sure to read any letters or emails from Howard County Health Department or the Maryland Health Connection.
3. Take action to ensure you don’t miss any key deadlines.
To learn more, please call the Howard County Health Department at (410) 313-5845.
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Hammond High School Renovations Near Completion!
Upon its completion this year, the expansive Hammond High School renovation and addition project will add capacity for an additional 200 students, increasing the size of the school to 235,000 square feet. This renovation helps further our efforts to create the best teaching and learning environment for all our students and educators.
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Ten Generations of Farming
Since 1943, Bowling Green Farm has been owned and operating by the Jones Family, and is now a 10th generation farm, right here in Howard County. Four years ago, the farm transitioned from a dairy to a grass-fed beef operation, with more than 400 acres of pasture. Their fresh meat is available to purchase at the Roving Radish Marketplace or by emailing them directly at bowlinggreenbeef@gmail.com.
Please, continue to support our small, local farms and businesses!
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Setting Course to Reaching Net Zero by 2045
Becoming more energy independent is one of the most urgent responsibilities of our generation. Our HoCo Climate Forward plan sets a course for reaching a 60 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and net zero by 2045. We will focus our efforts on four main areas to reach our goals: Energy, Transportation, Waste and Nature-Based Solutions, which came about through extensive research.
See why this transformative plan received one of our 51 NACo Achievement Awards this year here!
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Exemplar for Prioritizing our Community
Our Howard County of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) is an exemplar for prioritizing our community, and ensuring the human aspect is front and center in our decision-making. This year, OHRE earned three achievement awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) for Embedding Racial Equity Framework in Youth-Centered Mentorship, Community Ambassador Training Program and Cultural Intelligence and Diversity Training.
These empowering programs help every member of our community feel seen, heard, and valued. To see all our NACo awards, click HERE.
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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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Innovating with EDA
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Wednesday, August 23rd, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. – Design Thinking for Entrepreneurs: This four-part seminar held Wednesday evenings from August 23- September 13, will give you the tools you need to cut through ambiguity and move forward with confidence. Vance MacEwen, co-founder of Greatest Possible Good, delivers interactive workshops taking you through the design thinking process.
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Thursday, August 24th, 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. – Global Marketing Outlook: Essential Insights You Can't Afford to Miss: Don't miss this comprehensive exploration of the evolving marketing landscape, brimming with immense potential to elevate your business success to new heights.
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Thursday, August 31st, 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. – Understanding Product Development: From Idea to Market Launch: Physical product development requires large investments. Understanding the process, possible pitfalls and defining the requirements early in the process will help improve chances for success. A Maryland product development expert will share his experience and detail the steps taken to make an idea into a manufacturable product. Bring your idea, problems and be ready for an interactive discussion.
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Wednesday, September 6th, noon to 1:00 p.m. – Creating a Well-Designed Retirement Plan For Your Small Business: Join us as we look at a case study of a solopreneur with $200,000 in revenue and how a well-designed retirement plan helped him minimize taxes and get on the path to early retirement. Learn how these tools can help you prepare for retirement as well.
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Thursday, September 21st, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. – 2023 End of Summer Bash: Early bird tickets are now on sale for the Maryland Innovation Center's End of Summer Bash at Merriweather Lakehouse! You can purchase your early bird tickets by September 8th. Ticket sales close September 20th.
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Department of Community Resources and Services | |
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Come to the UNITY in the Community Resource Fair
Our Department of Community Resources and Services (DCRS) will host its final “UNITY in the Community Resource Fair” on Saturday, August 19th from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Mount Gregory United Methodist Church in Cooksville. Hosted by DCRS’s Office of the Local Children’s Board, this event offers participants the opportunity to access family services and community resources, all while enjoying musical entertainment, a moon bounce for the kids, food giveaways, arts and crafts, raffles, and prizes.
Free to all, we hope to see you there!
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Nominate a Veterans Day Parade Grand Marshal
With the start of fall fast approaching, DCRS’s Office of Veterans and Military Families is seeking Grand Marshal nominations for this year’s Howard County Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony.
The Grand Marshal is an honorary title bestowed upon an individual who represents the values and moral fiber of what it means to be a member of our Howard County community of veterans and military families. The Grand Marshal will be recognized at the parade and lakefront ceremony and will participate in the parade itself, whenever possible, riding or walking with the Grand Marshal float.
If you know of someone who you think is fitting of the Grand Marshal role and emulates this year’s parade theme, “Veterans Serving Veterans,” I encourage you to nominate them today! The deadline to submit your nomination and supporting documents is Friday, September 8th.
The year’s Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony will take place on Sunday, November 12th, starting at 9:30 a.m. in Downtown Columbia.
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HoCo Community Chat Drops Episodes Monthly
Hosted by DCRS Director Jackie Scott, DCRS’s HoCo Community Chat podcast is a new and entertaining way to engage residents in great conversations on how to live their best lives in Howard County. For her July episode, Scott was joined by Office on Aging and Independence Administrator Ofelia Ross, Office of Consumer Protection Administrator Tracy Rezvani and retired Howard County police officer and founder of the Center for Elder Justice and Education André Lingham, where they discussed what is consumer protection and the latest local scams and exploitive behaviors targeting residents, specially older adults.
Be sure to check out this coming month’s HoCo Community Chat wherever you listen to your podcasts, and if there is something specific you want to hear about, I encourage you to email DCRS at communityresources@howardcountymd.gov.
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Help Us Recognize Those Who Support Disability Rights in Howard County
Our Commission on Disabilities is seeking nominations for its 2023 annual awards program. These awards recognize individual achievement and outstanding efforts of those who advance full participation in community life for all residents, while promoting the spirit and intent of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other disability rights laws.
The deadline to submit a nomination is Monday, August 21st. While nomination forms are available online, if you need the form in an alternate format, please contact Erica Lewis at 410-313-6402 (voice/relay) or email cod@howardcountymd.gov. For additional information, click HERE.
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Office of Community Sustainability | |
Applications Now Accepted for Residential Clean Energy Rebate Program
In case you are looking to install solar or geothermal at your home, the Maryland Energy Administration is now accepting applications for its Residential Clean Energy Rebate Program. This program provides financial incentives to Maryland homeowners to purchase and install eligible renewable energy generating systems at their primary place of residence. To learn more and/or to apply, click HERE.
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Department of Fire and Rescue Services | |
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Applications Now Being Accepted for Trainee Class 38
Our Department of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) is NOW accepting applications for Trainee Class 38. Applications are available online at https://governmentjobs.com/careers/howardcounty and will accept through 5:00 p.m. this Friday, August 4th.
To learn more about a firefighter career with DFRS, check out the department’s “Recruitment” website.
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Howard County Health Department | |
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Improving Reproductive, Maternal and Infant Health in Howard County
Here in the United States, we have one of the highest rates of maternal mortality among high-income countries and rates have been increasing, including in Maryland. Sadly, incidence of Severe Maternal Morbidity events - life threatening conditions and complications from labor and delivery - have been steadily increasing since 2019. In 2021, Howard County’s preterm birth rate rose to 11 percent, according to the March of Dimes, higher than many neighboring jurisdictions and with significant racial disparities, especially among Black women.
We cannot be complacent while disturbing trends in maternal deaths rise, and this is an important step in building a healthier community for all. To help combat this rising health concern and ensure our pregnant residents, families and healthcare provides have access to information about prenatal, postpartum and infant resources available here in Howard County, the Howard County Health Department (HCHD) has launched its Perinatal Equity and Care for Everyone (P.E.A.C.E.) Project navigator program.
Provided at no cost and open to all pregnant and postpartum people in the county, the goal of the P.E.A.C.E. Project is to improve reproductive, maternal and infant health in Howard County. The P.E.A.C.E. Project’s Perinatal Care Navigator assists clients, families or providers in determining which services best meet the client’s needs and interests. The Navigator then links the client to community resources/services and follows up on the outcome of the referral.
To learn more about the P.E.A.C.E. Project, click HERE or to request a referral into the P.E.A.C.E. Project, click HERE.
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Maryland Medicaid Redetermination Underway
Do you or a family member currently have health insurance through Medicaid or the Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP)? Redetermination is underway for many who have Maryland Medicaid. It is important to check in to your account to make sure your contact information, including your mailing address, is up to date so that you can receive important notices on any changes to your health insurance coverage. For help, call the Howard County Health Department at 410-313-5845 or email medicaid@howardcountymd.gov with questions or for more information.
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Department of Housing and Community Development | |
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Moderate Income Housing Unit Homeownership Applications Due TODAY
Today, July 31st at 4:00 p.m. is the DEADLINE to submit your application for our Department of Housing and community Development (DHCD) Moderate Income Housing Unit (MIHU) program’s July open enrollment period for homeownership. Held quarterly throughout the year, this inclusionary zoning program provides individuals and families the opportunity to purchase quality new homes at reduced sale prices and rents to those eligible. to purchase quality new homes at reduced sale prices and rents to those eligible.
Applications are available online and en español también! Completed applications can be submitted either online, mailed to 9820 Patuxent Woods Drive, Suite 224, Columbia, MD, 21046, or dropped off at DHCD’s Patuxent Woods Drive office by appointment only.
On DHCD’s “Open Enrollment” website, interested applicants can find a presentation from a previous homeownership informational workshop. For frequently asked questions and answers explaining the program’s eligibility requirements and application process visit the MIHU Program website or email moderateincomehousing@howardcounty.md.
Please keep in mind, if you are interested in DHCD’s MIHU rental program, prospective renters may apply directly to a participating rental community at any time during the year. For more information on the MIHU rental program, including a list of participating communities, please visit DHCD’s MIHU rental website.
For questions and/or more information about the MIHU program, contact DHCD’s Housing Opportunities Programs Division at 410-313-6318 and select option two, email moderateincomehousing@howardcountymd.gov or visit DHCD’s open enrollment website.
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Office of Human Rights and Equity | |
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MLK Pop Up Pantry
If you or someone you know is in need of fresh produce and/or non-perishable food items, I encourage you to stop by the Ridgely Run Community Center in Jessup from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 14th for a pop-up food pantry. Hosted by the Howard County Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission and the Harriet Tubman Foundation of Howard County, this pop-up food pantry is open to all. Registration is not required to attend.
For those interested in volunteering to help with food distribution, the Commission and Foundation ask that you please arrive by 8:30 a.m. on the 14th.
For questions and/or more information about this event, please call 443-386-0405 or 443-280-1935.
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Unleashing the Activist Within
On August 28, 1963, 250,000 people gathered in front of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., for the March on Washington to draw attention to continuing challenges and inequalities faced by African Americans a century after emancipation. During the march, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his now-iconic “I Have a Dream” speech.
To commemorate the 60th anniversary of the march, our Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) will host its newest training, “Unleashing the Activist Within” on Tuesday, August 22nd. Set to begin at 5:00 p.m., this virtual workshop will explore the history, culture and tools of activism from 1950 to the present. Attendees will participate in activities that will break their barriers toward engagement, learn tools that promote self-care, gain insights on how to collaborate and organize for greater impact, and brainstorm approaches to substantively engaging in the human or civil rights concerns they are most passionate about.
To register for OHRE’s “Unleashing the Activist Within” training, click HERE today!
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Women’s Equality Day Dinner
Mark your calendars and save the date for OHRE’s second annual Women’s Equality Day Dinner on August 24th! Please stay tuned as more information becomes available for this year’s event.
For questions, contact OHRE at 410-313-6430 or email ohreoutreach@howardcountymd.gov.
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Reading Human Rights – The Other Americans by Laila Lalami
Reading Human Rights is an award-winning monthly book discussion group hosted by OHRE and Howard County Library System (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.
For its August book discussion – to be held in person at HCLS's East Columbia branch on Tuesday, August 29th at 6:30 p.m., OHRE will discuss Laila Lalami’s The Other Americans. The Other Americans is a family saga, a murder mystery and love story informed by the treacherous fault lines of American culture. Lalami’s book explores the lives of characters deeply divided by race, religion, and class.
To secure your seat for this month’s event, click HERE today to register.
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Meet Me at Equality
In addition to its “Unleashing the Activist Within” training, OHRE will also celebrate the March on Washington’s 60th anniversary this August with a screening of Dr. James Rada’s documentary, Meet Me at Equality: The People’s March on Washington. Scheduled to take place Thursday, August 31st at 6:30 p.m. at HCLS’s Miller branch, Meet Me at Equality: The People’s March on Washington explores the history of the civil rights movement and the struggle for equality. Through personal interviews and historical footage, the film features the courageous actions of historians and elders who were activists who fought for equal rights and attended the famous March on Washington.
Following the screening, OHRE will lead a thought-provoking discussion, where participants will learn more about the challenges and triumphs of those who continue to work to create a more inclusive and equitable community nationwide.
To register to participate in this enlightening and educational event, click HERE.
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Nominees Sought for Human Rights Commission’s 2023 Awards
If you know an individual or community organization who has made significant contributions to human and civil rights in Howard County, I encourage you to nominate them today for our Human Rights Commission's 2023 James E. Henson, Sr. and Jean W. Toomer Individual, Dr. Murray Simon Student and Colette Roberts Organization awards. To learn more about these awards and/or for a nomination form, visit HERE. The nomination deadline is Thursday, August 31st at 5:00 p.m.
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Department of Planning and Zoning | |
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Historic Preservation Commission Meeting
This Thursday, August 3rd, our Department of Planning and Zoning’s Historic Preservation Commission will be holding a VIRTUAL meeting starting at 7:00 p.m. The meeting agenda and instructions on how to watch or participate in Thursday’s meeting can be found on the Commission’s website.
Please note, to register to join Thursday’s meeting through your computer to view and hear the presentations, you will need to register by noon on the 3rd. Once registered, further instructions and a call-in attendee number will be provided via email.
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National Night Out
Tomorrow, August 1st, Howard County Police Department (HCPD) is once again join forces with the National Town Watch Association to sponsor its annual National Night Out. Residents are invited to join HCPD and the thousands of other communities across America in support of this community-building, crime prevention campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.
Participating is easy. Either stop by HCPD’s kick-off party at Wilde Lake Middle School from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. – featuring food, police and fire displays, DJ, games, activities and more, check out one of the neighborhood events or simply turn on your outside lights and spend at least one hour in front of your home on the evening of the 1st, if able, to help send a message to criminals that our communities are banding together to fight crime.
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There’s More than One Way to Get a DUI
HCPD is reminding motorists that driving high is impaired driving. If you are under the influence of cannabis, please be the driver who knows that it is not safe to get behind the wheel. You could get a DUI or worse, cause a crash and injure another.
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The Community Athletic Program’s Traveling Trailer is Back!
Parents, if you're looking for something to do with your kids this summer, consider HCPD’s Community Athletic Program (CAP). Residents of all ages are invited to meet up with HCPD School Resources Officers at locations throughout the county this summer break to toss around a football, go fishing, play video games and more from CAP's traveling trailer.
To learn more about this program and/or for a complete summer CAP schedule, check out its "Youth Programs" website today.
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Department of Public Works | |
Bureau of Environmental Service’s Stormwater Management Division | |
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Patapsco Park Estates Pond Repair Public Meeting
Our Department of Public Works' (DPW) Stormwater Management Division will hold a public meeting on Thursday, August 10th at 6:00 p.m. in the Avalon Room of HCLS’s Miller branch, to present plans to repair an existing pond located near 2041 Eliza Dorsey Lane in Ellicott City. The project will include replacement of the old metal outlet structure with a new concrete outlet structure that has a longer service life and will bring the pond into compliance with current Maryland Department of the Environment requirements. Weather permitting, the project is expected to begin in fall 2023 and be completed by spring 2024.
This informational meeting will include an overview of the project’s design, followed by an open discussion. County staff and the project’s design consultant will be on hand to answer any questions and gather public comments.
Those unable to attend the meeting or who would like to view the plans and/or have questions, should contact Mr. Bill Liu with DPW’s Stormwater Management Division at 410-313-6416 or email bliu@howardcountymd.gov.
Again, an interpreter for people who are deaf or hard of hearing will be available if requested seven working days prior to the meeting. Please call DPW at 410-313-3440 (voice) or use Relay at 7-1-1, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
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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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Fall Guide Online Registration This Wednesday
Heads up Howard County, Recreation & Parks' 2023 Fall Activity Guide is NOW AVAILABLE online. Residents should have found their copy in the mail already or very soon. You can also pick up a hard copy at Recreation & Parks' headquarters, located at 7120 Oakland Mills Road in Columbia. From sport, dance and cooking classes, to a plethora of seasonal events and activities to do when school's out, there is something for everyone in this Fall Guide.
Online registration for Howard County residents begins this Wednesday, August 2nd at 6:00 p.m. (with in-person, mail-in and over-the-phone beginning the following morning on the 3rd), followed by registration for non-county residents on August 9th at 6:00 p.m. We hope you will join us this fall!
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Sign up for Fall Youth Flag Football
Registration is now open for Recreation & Parks’ Fall Flag Football. This season, boys and girls ranging in age from five to 15, will find their love of the game while learning and working on flag football basic skills. Teams will practice once a week for an hour, with games starting September 16th. Games are 50 minutes long and are five-on-five and non-contact. To register for this Flag Football season, click HERE. The deadline to register is August 18th or when a section is full.
In additional to youth athletes, Recreation & park sis also looking for volunteer parent/community head coaches. Head coaches receive a discount for their child and a guaranteed spot for their child on their team. For questions and/or or more information about coaching or this season, contact Brian Wyman at bwyman@howardcountymd.gov.
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Come Get Your Free Trees!
If you are looking to add additional trees to your property, be sure to check out Recreation & Parks’ Forestry webpage to learn more about its various free tree and planting service programs – Turf to Trees (1.5 to 10 acre properties), Stream Releaf (properties near streams) and Tree Canopy (planting in neighborhoods with lower tree coverage) – available to county residents. Please note, residents are responsible for caring for the trees once planted.
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Be sure to check the page out soon as spots are now open for the fall planting season! | |
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Rockburn Open Car Show
Celebrate the beauty of classic, antique, hot rods and modified cars with Recreation & Parks at its annual Rockburn Open Car Show next Saturday, August 12th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Rockburn Branch Park West in Elkridge. Geared towards all ages, this FREE event will feature cars (obviously), as well as food on site to purchase. For those wishing to be an exhibitor at this year’s event, click HERE to learn more.
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Time for Teens to Kick Back
Attention teens, age 11 to 17 years old! If you are looking for a fun way to spend your free time this summer, be sure to check out Recreation & Parks FREE drop-in program for teens at its three community centers and new Harriet Tubman Cultural Center. Drop-in activities include free pizza and snacks, sports, video games and more. Below, you’ll find the dates, times and locations for this summer’s teen drop-in program:
For more information, click HERE or contact Anthony Lyon at 410-313-0456 or email alyon@howardcountymd.gov.
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