Volume V | Issue XIII | Summer 2024
George Howard Building | 3430 Court House Drive, Ellicott City, MD 21043
Phone: (410) 313-2001 | Email: ojones@howardcountymd.gov
Howard County Holiday Information
Juneteenth National Freedom Day Holiday Closings 

Juneteenth National Freedom Day celebrates the end of slavery in the United States, marking June 19th, 1865, when the news of the Emancipation Proclamation finally reached slaves in Galveston Texas, more than two years after it was signed. 

Howard County Government offices, 50+ centers, courts and animal shelter will be closed in observance of Juneteenth National Freedom Day on Wednesday, June 19th. However, regular trash, recycling and food scrap/yard trim services will be in effect and the Alpha Ridge Landfill will be open.  

While county parks, Gary J. Arthur, North Laurel and Roger Carter Community Centers, Meadowbrook Athletic Complex will be open on the 19th, Kiwanis-Wallas Hall, Belmont Manor and Historic Park, Firehouse Museum and the Patapsco Female Institute will be closed. The Baltimore & Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum and the Robinson Nature Center will be open.  

The Regional Transportation Agency (RTA) will operate on a regular weekday schedule; for more information on RTA, call (800) 270-9553 or visit www.transitrta.com. All parking regulations and fees will be in effect.  
    
The 9-1-1 Center, Police and Fire departments remain staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For emergencies, call 9-1-1; for non-emergencies, call (410) 313-2200. 

County operations will resume on Thursday, June 20th, at regular business hours. 
Howard County’s July 4th Fireworks 

Join in the County’s July 4th annual fireworks celebration. The event features live entertainment. Bring a picnic or purchase food from on-site vendors.

The event is free for all ages and parking is free.  

Fireworks start between 9:10 PM and 9:20 PM (Weather Permitting)

For more information call: (410) 313-1668 or visit: Howard County's July 4th Fireworks 
Community Events
Plant Sales Every Saturday 

June events are here! All farm stand events are completely free! 
 
June 8th Plant Sale + Flower Pressing 
June 15th Plant Sale + Build a Bouquet 
June 22nd Plant Sale + Upcycled Art 
June 29th Plant Sale + Food Preservation 

Every purchase supports local farms, local pantries, and food assistance programs.
Saturday, June 8th: Juneteenth for Kids and Adults at Elkridge

Hands-on activities will help kids learn about the history and significance of Juneteenth, a Federal holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. 

For more information click here.
Oakland Mills Interfaith eARTh Art Show, Meet the Artists Reception 
Sunday, June 9th from 2 – 4:30 PM
 
The Oakland Mills Interfaith Green Team is hosting a sustainability-themed art exhibition through July 13th, at The Meeting House Gallery in the Oakland Mills Interfaith Center.

The reception will feature a native plant giveaway, live music, a scavenger hunt, an art marketplace, and light refreshments.

Click here to register for the exhibition and reception.
Maintaining Your Mental Health: One Piece of the Elder Abuse Puzzle 
Friday, June 14th from 10 AM – 3:30 PM at the East Columbia 50+ Center 

CONTACT: Katy Lee, Manager, Ombudsman Program at (410) 313-6423 for more information  

Friday, June 14th – Sunday, June 16th  

Columbia Festival of the Arts returns to the Downtown Columbia Lakefront with its FREE LakeFest Weekend featuring three days of live music, an invitational fine arts/crafts show, a variety of activities for all ages, and fabulous festival foods.  

This year’s LakeFest theme is Community, Culture, and Connections!

Click here for more information.
Join Howard County for a Men’s Health Month Expo on Saturday, June 15th, from 10 AM to 2 PM at the North Laurel Community Center, in recognition of Men's Health Month.

This event is dedicated to promoting men’s health and wellness through informative workshops, engaging classes, and essential health screenings. Let's make our health a priority and celebrate Men's Health Month together!
 
Click here to register and for more information.
Lakefront Live Summer 2024 
 
Cozy up under the stars at the FREE movie nights hosted by Mr. B, get your groove on for Dancin' Under the People Tree, led by Columbia Association's talented fitness instructors, and jam to live performances. 

There's something for everyone, so grab your friends and join the community at the Lakefront! 

Outstanding FREE concerts are scheduled for Glen Mar’s 2024 Summer Concert Series.

All concerts will be held at Glen Mar Church - 4701 New Cut Road, Ellicott City. 
Ken & Brad Kolodner Quartet - Friday, June 21st, 7 – 8 PM
(Followed by a jam session – bring your instruments)

The Ken & Brad Kolodner Quartet brings a unique spin to old music by weaving the hammered dulcimer and clawhammer sounds together to make American folk music. The quartet will play traditional and original music.

Be sure to bring your lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy a hot dog bar and beverages starting at 5 PM.

Suggested donation is $10
The Soldiers’ Chorus of the U.S. Army Field Band – Friday, July 19th 7 – 8 PM 

The Soldiers’ Chorus of the U.S. Army Field Band will present “America the Beautiful,” a musical celebration of our beloved nation. Travel across breathtaking natural landscapes and meet the warm and hospitable people who are the fabric of the United States of America.

Through exciting music and stunning visuals, be inspired by the beauty and diversity of this great nation while honoring the veterans who answered the call to defend it. 
Tuesday, June 25th: Beaded Pride Bracelets for Teens and Adults

Enjoy a fun evening of crafting and celebrate LGBTQIA+ Pride Month by making Pride inspired bracelets to keep or give as gifts.

Click here to register.
Sunday, June 30th from Noon - 5 PM 
Color Burst Park 
6000 Merriweather Drive, Columbia
 
Indulge in delicious flavors from a selection of food trucks, featuring a variety of authentic cuisines. Groove to the island beats and enjoy live music and dance performances. 
 
Explore the rich heritage of the Caribbean through interactive activities, including traditional crafts, exhibits, and cultural displays. Browse the vendor marketplace, where you can find souvenirs, jewelry, and more to take home. 
 
Admission is FREE, so mark your calendars for an unforgettable celebration of Caribbean culture and heritage! 
Monday’s July 1st, July 15th, July 29th  
Drop in anytime between 10 AM – 2 PM 
Sponsored by: Howard County Police Department's (HCPD) Youth Division 

Meet with School Resource Officers (SROs) over summer break to toss a football, go fishing, or even play video games.

Activities vary but can include basketball, baseball, flag football, floor hockey, tennis, board games, and video games.

All school aged children encouraged and welcomed to participate. 

CAP will be located at Talbot Springs Pool Parking Lot. The Columbia Association will provide FREE open swim from NOON – 2 PM.  
Summer Concerts begin in July! 
Centennial Park Amphitheater
10000 Clarksville Pike, Ellicott City

Concerts are Wednesday nights starting at 7 PM and FREE for all ages.

Bring a blanket and a picnic while enjoying the musical sounds of summer. 

* Note: July 31st concert will be at Rockburn Branch Park (5400 Landing Road, Elkridge)

Click here for a full list of summer concerts.
Saturday, July 28th  
10 AM - 2 PM  
Blandair Regional Park North Area
5685 Oakland Mills Rd, Columbia

Celebrate equity and inclusion of all!

This event promotes disability awareness by providing an opportunity for children, adults, their families, and the community to come to enjoy a day at the park.
Long Reach
Upcoming Meetings
  
Board of Directors
The next board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 18th at 7:30 PM (In-person)

For more information click here.

Stonehouse is open by appointment only!

For more information contact, Tina Addo, Village Manager at info@longreach.org.

U N D E R C O N S T R U C T I O N!
Village Office Move  
Stonehouse is currently undergoing building renovations through Fall 2024. During this time, the village office has temporarily moved to office space located in the Long Reach Village Center.
Save the Date! The Long Reach Hooked on Fishing event is scheduled for Wednesday, July 31st.

More information will be provided in the Long Reach June edition of the "Reach Out" and weekly e-newsletters. 
Long Reach Community Association (LRCA) Cul-de-sac Landscaping Grants

LRCA can provide residents with a grant, up to $200 (if your plan is approved) for the purchase of plant materials.

To be eligible, you must live on a county dedicated road with a cul-de-sac island. You and your neighbors must agree to develop, plant, and maintain the landscaping plan.

The grants are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications are available at longreach.org.
Oakland Mills
Upcoming Meetings 

The next Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 11th at 7 PM (Hybrid)

For more information click here.

OMCA staff is working a hybrid schedule. Before you visit The Other Barn, please contact OMCA by email or phone to leave a message and schedule an appointment.

For more information contact Brigitta Warren, Village Manager at manager@oaklandmills.org.
OMHS Food Pantry Donations
at The Other Barn 

Monday - Thursday from 10 AM - 3 PM

The OMHS Food Pantry is taking donations at The Other Barn.

Click here to see a list of items needed!
Market Dates: Now thru Sunday, November 3rd 
Market Hours: 9 AM - 1 PM 
Address of Market: 5851 Robert Oliver Place, Columbia
Join the Oakland Mills community on Sunday, June 23rd, for Jazz in the Mills. The featured artist is Alison Crockett.

Howard County Resident Services
Resources and social services for residents living in Howard County: Resident Services
Did you know residents 60 years of age and older or persons with a disability can take the Regional Transportation Agency of Central Maryland’s (RTA) fixed route service for free? Individuals just need to complete a RTA Certified FREE Ride Card Application and submit it either via email or mailed or dropped off in person at the RTA’s Administrative Office.

Once received, applications will be reviewed within 48 hours and the applicant will be contacted to have their picture taken for their RTA Certified Bus Rider ID, completed weekdays, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM. The ID can be processed in five minutes while rider waits in the lobby or it can be mailed.

To learn more about this free ride program, contact RTA Mobility at 1(800) 270-9553, press option 3, then option 6.
Help Is Available – 988

988 is the NEW National Mental Health Crisis Lifeline. Whenever you call this number, you are guaranteed quality and safe care for mental health and substance use emergencies. No need to look up any national toll-free number.

Simply call or text 988 and you will get free, immediate, and confidential help from a trained counselor.

For more information click here.
Community Action Council Assistance 
Community Action Council offers housing assistance, energy assistance, food assistance, and early childhood education.

Howard County Food Bank Location and Hours:

Tuesdays, 1 - 4:30 PM
Wednesdays, 11 AM - 7 PM
Thursdays, 1 - 4:30 PM

Laurel MultiService Center*

Wednesdays, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Thursdays, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Call (410) 313-6440 or visit www.cac-hc.org for support or to get involved. 
Early Childhood Education
CAC’s Early Childhood Education program will open Head Start and PreK slots for the 2024 school year, children must be 3 - 5 years of age for the program. All program services are free to enrolled eligible families.

Rental Assistance
CAC provides housing assistance and eviction prevention to Howard County residents who have fallen behind in their rent but are not yet facing eviction. Renters should contact CAC immediately when they are first unable to pay their rent.

Residents may apply via the CAC website, GET HELP – Community Action Council of Howard County (cac-hc.org), by emailing clientassistance@cac-hc.org, or by calling (410) 313-6440. They may also visit CAC’s Howard County Food Bank and or the Multiservice Center located at the North Laurel Community Center to meet with a CAC Community Worker.
Howard County Food Bank 
Shop for the foods you want at the Howard County Food Bank. All shopping trips are family-choice. Fresh items such as milk, eggs, hygiene products, meats, produce are all on hand each time.

Families who may qualify should visit www.CAC-HC.org or call
(410) 313-6440 for more details. 
The Elkridge Food Pantry and Garden

The pantry serves all residents of Elkridge in both temporary and long-term need. The pantry is open the second and fourth Friday of each month from 4 - 8 PM.

Service Area: Elkridge, Hanover, and Jessup

Elkridge Food Pantry - Good Samaritan Outreach Center 5646 Furnace Avenue, (443) 492-9209
Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland 
Meals on Wheels provides nutritious meals once a week for seniors, as well as support and safety-net services.

To learn more about services or to donate/volunteer click here.
Howard County General Hospital's Member Care Support Network 

Receive FREE support while recovering from a health crisis (weekly calls, wellness checks, connection to community resources, and more). To qualify, you must be 18 years or older and live or worship in Howard County.

To enroll or for more information, email HCGH-J2BH@jhmi.edu or call (410) 740-7601. 
Report water main breaks, broken street signs, and more on Howard County's mobile app and website Tell HoCo. Residents can report non-emergency issues which the county will assign to the responsible department.

Download the TellHoCoApp on your mobile phone or visit howardcountymd.gov/Tell-HoCo.
County Updates & Resources
HCEDA's Minority Business Directory is a helpful resource. This directory not only offers a list of local enterprises but also promotes economic diversity, fosters community integration, and helps identify potential partnerships and collaborations.

For minority-owned businesses aiming to enhance their visibility and join this expanding network, we invite you to list your enterprise in the directory by clicking here
District Two Schools
Congratulations again to the Class of 2024! Even though the big day has come to a close, graduates and families you can relive those moments!

Howard County Public School System will rebroadcast the graduations on Howard County cable channels 42 (Verizon) and 95 (Comcast)

Visit: https://www.hcpss.org/commencements/#watching for more information (schedule subject to change)

Long Reach High School
Rebroadcast Date: Wednesday, June 12th at 9 AM

Howard High School
Rebroadcast Date: Thursday, June 13th at 9 AM

Oakland Mills High School
Rebroadcast Date: Friday, June 14th at 9 AM
2024 FREE Summer Meals Program 

Weekdays, Monday, June 24th through Friday, August 2nd from 12:30-2:00 PM 
Please Note: There will be no meal service Thursday, July 4th  
Meals will be served only on days schools are open and there will be no meal service Thursday, July 4th. 

There are no applications, enrollment or fees to participate in this program, however, children must be present to receive free meals. 

Meals will be provided at no cost to any HCPSS students, as well as any children aged 18 and under. In addition, free meals will be provided to all students participating in HCPSS summer programs. 
Meal sites and pickup times are subject to change. Any changes will be noted on the HCPSS website

Summer Meal Sites:
 
Atholton High School, 6520 Freetown Road, Columbia 
Bollman Bridge Elementary School, 8200 Savage-Guilford Road, Savage 
Ducketts Lane Elementary School, 6501 Ducketts Lane, Elkridge 
Ellicott Mills Middle School, 4445 Montgomery Road, Ellicott City 
Hammond High School, 8800 Guilford Road, Columbia 
Howard High School, 8700 Old Annapolis Rd., Ellicott City 
Lake Elkhorn Middle School, 6680 Cradlerock Way, Columbia 
Oakland Mills Middle School, 9540 Kilimanjaro Rd., Columbia 
Swansfield Elementary School, 5610 Cedar Lane, Columbia 
Wilde Lake Middle School, 10481 Cross Fox Lane, Columbia 
Howard County Library System East Columbia Branch, 6600 Cradlerock Way, Columbia 
Howard County Library System Elkridge Branch, 6540 Washington Blvd, Elkridge 

Click here for more information.
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