Columbia, MD February 2020

FEBRUARY 2020

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

FEBRUARY 2020 PUBLISHER

Anika Baty-Mills | anika.mills@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Veronica Barnes | veronica.barnes@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Art is everywhere!

Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER

Jayme Emery

GROWING UP WITH AN ART TEACHER AS YOUR MOTHER, IT’S TOUGH TO

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

AVOID DOING ANY KIND OF CRAFT PROJECT AT HOME. It’s in your blood.

A.Kenyatta Greer Katrina Hall Anika Baty-Mills

My friends consistently tease me and accuse me of creating holidays or traditions that don’t exist. Who doesn’t make May baskets? In our little corner of the world in Iowa, my hometown, my sister and I would make our baskets by hand, and fill them

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

with sweet treats. After we marveled at our masterpieces, we would then sneak over

Edison Manalo Poemtography

to our neighbor's front door, place the baskets ever so gently in front of it and…… ring the doorbell and run like the wind! The whole idea was to do something nice for your neighbor while keeping your identity a secret. It was so much fun and we did this almost every year. Needless to say trying to pass this tradition on to my children, born and raised in Maryland, did not go well. Who knew ringing the doorbell, leaving a package at the door and running away would be frowned upon? I guess it’s a little different out here. The feeling that art can provoke in someone is the same no matter the location. In this issue, we explore art in many different ways. We discuss how art needs our support , from volunteering to donating funds. We introduce you to a local

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

entrepreneur who practices the art of building self esteem by helping women find

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

their perfect fit. We also explore how it can fill a void, heal your heart, and excite your

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

tastebuds. The next time you are walking, running, or driving through our beautiful

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

Columbia, stop for just a moment and look around. Art is truly everywhere, and much

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

of it is produced by someone in our community.

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Anika Baty-Mills, Publisher

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LifestylePubs.com/Columbia

Proverbs 3:5-6 Columbia Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Columbia areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Columbia Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

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Columbia Lifestyle | February 2020

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Poemtography

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INSIDE THE ISSUE FEBRUARY 2020

FEATURES 18 The Art of Esteem Building Helping women find confidence with the perfect fit

24 An Artist’s Palette Art that you can touch and taste is always on the menu!

28 Date Night In A night in with your favorite person can still be high end and fun!

18 24

34 Purpose driven Art, a familiar refuge, created an unexpected new beginning.

28

34

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Road Trip

14

Giving Back

24 Locally Owned 28 Culinary Creations 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Local’s Choice

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7

GOOD TIMES

Winter Cocktail Crawl-Downtown Columbia Partnership Put on by the Downtown Columbia Partnership, the Winter Cocktail Crawl was a roaring success! Due to a change in weather, this outdoor event was moved indoors to the brand new office building located at 6100 Merriweather Drive, provided by the Howard Hughes Corporation.The sold out event featured wonderful and interesting cocktails, good eats, and great people. It was a rockin' good time!

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Columbia Lifestyle | February 2020

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ROAD TRIP

ARTICLE A. KENYATTA GREER

LO O K I N G F O R U S ?

W E ’ R E G O N E BY T H E WAYS I D E 10

Columbia Lifestyle | February 2020

Cranberry Orange Croissant Souffle. Xu says he loves cooking and takes pride in presenting an impressive meal. “Nothing is too complicated if you really want to learn,” he says.

While Xu has only owned the inn for a year, the history of the home dates back to 1750. Local historians suggest that it was one of the first inns in Howard County – once Ann Arundel County. Robert and Charlotte Hartkopf, prominent Ellicott City restaurateurs, purchased it in 1963. They renovated the property and sought and received the first historical designation awarded to the house. The home has had four owners since then.

The Wayside is known for the candles that remain in the windows, leading some to speculate on their origins.

The truth is, the Hartkopfs kept candles in the windows HIGH-RISE HOTELS WITH CITY VIEWS ARE AN

as a nod to the old English tradition that marks the house

EXCITING WAY TO GET AWAY. Every now and again,

as a public place where travelers can stop and rest. It

though, the only way to truly relax is to escape the

used to be that each of the building’s 35 windows bore a

excitement and embrace the peace and quiet that

candle at all hours. Now, the candles are reserved for the

comes with a measure of solitude. When you feel the

bedroom windows, and they are extinguished when the

need to step away from the bustle, consider Wayside

rooms are occupied with a new visitor.

Inn Bed and Breakfast. Located in Ellicott City, this

Columbia Lifestyle recently sent a staff member

six-bedroom historic home features three well-ap-

to visit the inn, and she stayed in the plush Banneker

pointed rooms and three spacious suites.

Room suite, with its blue and cream décor, is a glimpse

The inn was acquired just one year ago by Jo Xu

into a time gone by. The four-poster rice bed is queen

and his business partner. Xu, a twelve-year informa-

sized and so tall that it requires the provided step to get

tion technology professional, was looking for a career

into it! Between the cozy wood-burning fireplace, the

change that would provide a more flexible schedule

spacious jetted tub, and the rainfall showerhead, our

and remove some of the pressure inherent in an IT

reviewer was pleasantly surprised that a centuries-old

environment. Now, he finds joy in catering to every

inn could provide a resort-like experience.

need of his guests – right down to preparing some of

The breakfast, prepared by Xu, came in courses.

the delicious, traditional meals that visitors have come

To start, he served a scrumptious bowl of fresh fruit

to expect over the inn’s history.

doused in sweet yogurt. A variety of coffees, teas, and

The previous owner held the property for more than

juices were offered before the next course: a coffee

20 years, and he shared some of those recipes with

cake-like pastry with raisins, crispy bacon, and fresh

Xu, including some of the most popular dishes – which

fruit. The portions were plentiful, and the food was

appear on their website – such as Baked Grapefruit,

beautifully plated. Guests choose from two breakfast

Grand Marnier French Toast, and Wayside Inn

times too meet their needs.

CONTINUED >

February 2020 | Columbia Lifestyle

11

ROAD TRIP (CONTINUED)

This is a beautiful photo of the Wayside featuring a picturesque pond surround by woods dusted with a coating of powdery snow. The inn is open year-round, but their busiest seasons are in the summer and around the Christmas holidays, where the home’s halls are decked with festive trees, lights, and decorations.

The sunroom – formerly a screened porch – is climate controlled and has previously housed small weddings and receptions, corporate meetings, and holiday parties.

The Wayside Inn is a lovely bed and breakfast with carefully appointed rooms, but the real treat in spending time there is the exceptional service and “breakfast” part of the deal.

For more information about the Wayside Inn Bed and Breakfast visit their website: www.waysideinnmd.com/

410-461-4636

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Columbia Lifestyle | February 2020

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13

GIVING BACK

A R T S PE A K S .

I S C O LU M B I A STILL LISTENING? IN THE EARLY 1970S, THE WARREN M. Robbins Library at the National Museum of African Art was looking for weekend guides. Doris Ligon, a then-40-something mother of adult children, was interested in bolstering her knowledge of the African continent, she applied for the job and earned it.

Ligon’s training required her to learn a great deal of information about Africa – not just about its art. It was a “marvelous experience,” she recalls.

In 1979, Robbins gave his museum to the Smithsonian, and on October 8, 1980, when Ligon told her husband Lieutenant Colonel Claude M. Ligon that she was ready to start her own museum, the retired soldier – and retired public service commissioner – immediately called a lawyer, and they were incorporated that same day. He was a doer, and supported her every move. There needed to be more than one place to share the truth about the continent and how its art affects the American experience. He said, “Sweets, one day we’ll have the first museum in Columbia.”

They had no money and no art. They had never even been to Africa nor did they have any friends there. What they did have, was the determination to dispel myths and educate anyone who would listen.

Today, Ligon is 83 years and thousands of miles worth of wisdom.

She has spent every year of her life since the inception of the museum

FOUNDED AS COLUMBIA’S FIRST MUSEUM, THE AFRICAN ART MUSEUM IS LOOKING FOR IT’S NEXT PREDECESSOR. TO CONTINUE THEIR WORK

working toward its goals. “I want people to come in and love the art,” Ligon says, “I want them to understand the people and to create friendships. To better understand the traditional arts of Africa, and to broaden their horizons. If we don’t know about it, we are missing part of our education. We’re talking about the second-largest continent. A place

ARTICLE A. KENYATTA GREER PHOTOGRAPHY ANIKA MILLS, SUSAN SOMBOROVICH, ALI USMAN

full of diversity.”

Ligon says her museum, The African Art Museum of Maryland, was the first devoted to the traditional arts of Africa and started by AfricanAmerican. She still studies, and says she can learn something every single day. And she can teach, too. Befuddled by how uncomfortable people can be when confronted with art that sometimes depicts the African body, she quips, “African art deserves better. People don’t understand it. People balk at the nudity, but nobody talks about putting a diaper on David. Look at Monet. We don’t cover up that bunch of women laying on couches. Our art is just as important.”

CONTINUED >

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Columbia Lifestyle | February 2020

Cape Town in South Africa at dawn

February 2020 | Columbia Lifestyle

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GIVING BACK (CONTINUED) Photo by Susan Somborovich

Photo by Susan Somborovich

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Columbia Lifestyle | February 2020

The African Art Museum of Maryland logo standing proud

She’s amassed an impressive collection over the years.

While storage (there are just 900 square feet in their current location) and liability concerns have stopped them from accepting loans, the museum houses two types of art: museum quality pieces and pieces that are explicitly identified to be touched and experienced in the hands on portion of tours.

The museum’s outreach includes talks at local elementary schools. She has gone into the schools to share with students, and teachers, what Africa is really like. In fact, she says, in 1983, Howard County’s School District altered their sixth- and third-grade curricula to include units about Africa.

Outreach also includes trips to the continent. “We start a year in advance of a trip with meetings – free and open to the public – to prepare people.” It’s not all jungles and danger, like some people have expected over the years, she explains; but, things will be different than they are here. “If where you’re going is just like home, you need to just stay home,” she opines.

Ligon’s group has been to Senegal, Gambia, the Ivory Coast, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. Their first trip to South Africa was in 1997, shortly after the end of apartheid.

Their group of 31 was one of the first groups to visit Robin Island. Returning from the island, they were on the same ferry with a man who had been in same prison with Nelson Mandela and shared unforgettable stories with them.

The museum is approaching its fortieth year, and while that is a milestone to celebrate, there is a sobering reality they must contend with: being grossly underfunded. Ligon says, “We are all professional volunteers. We look like we have money, but we don’t have a lot, especially since my husband left here, but poor is a state of grace.”

Ligon is lively and bright and committed to the museum’s work, but understands the need for a succession plan. Regarding to whom the mantle will be passed, she replies, “I wish I knew. Right after my husband passed, we approached a college to which our family had connections, but no one can take it or has taken it. We just want an educational institution to take it to keep the doors open, and not become elitist." Ligon says, “Providing students an opportunity to work it and learn from it. I want to find someone soon.”

To help Ligon continue the work of the museum – taking people outside of their comfort zones and into another world, pushing aside myth and misinformation, and molding young minds – consider donating to the African Art Museum of Maryland online or by mail. Visit their page for more informa-

Photo by Ali Usman Shahid

tion: http://africanartmuseum.org/donate.html

February 2020 | Columbia Lifestyle

17

THE ART OF ESTEEM BUILDING

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Columbia Lifestyle | February 2020

BRA LA LA OWNER MOVES FROM BIOCHEMISTRY, TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP, TO PHILANTHROPY ARTICLE A. KENYATTA GREER PHOTOGRAPHY EDISON MANALO POEMTOGRAPHY

FOR 15 YEARS, MARY JORDAN SOLD LAB EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES TO THE BIOTECH INDUSTRY, DRAWING UPON HER YEARS PRIOR AS A PRE-VETERINARY STUDENT. And a pre-medical student. And a lab technician helping to research breast cancer at Georgetown University. So, her current position as owner of Bra-la-la in Fulton begs the question: How does a promising scientist break into – and dominate – the undergarment business?

As a salesperson, Jordan watched her territory get bigger and bigger while the needs of her young daughters at home did, too.

Weighing their priorities, she and her husband decided that it was time to do something new. They first looked into opening an organic market, but when Jordan’s friend told her about a great bra fitting experience she had in Virginia Beach’s Full Cup boutique, Jordan ventured south to check it out. The whole idea of a service-oriented business intrigued her, and she began investigating the concept.

Jordan looked into the demographics of Bethesda, MD, an area that immediately appealed to her, until her husband suggested she look closer to home: Howard County. She revved up her scientific engine to research the viability of a new store. She created a one-page survey and took to the road – the coffee shops, actually. From Gaithersburg to Elliott City, she approached women in coffee shops and persuaded them to take the survey. The response to the concept of an undergarments shop in Howard County was overwhelming.

She took her idea – and her research – to banks who began wrestling over her business. Today, Jordan celebrates 13 years as the owner of Bra-La-La, where she employs eight others who help her in her mission to enhance every woman’s well-being and esteem by finding her perfect fit.

A “serial philanthropist” is what Jordan is called these days, she says: “I volunteer a lot where I feel like I can help the most.” For her, that’s the Young Women’s Giving Circle; Success with Style, an organization that offers dignity to women in crisis. Bra la la donates 500 bras per year to this organization. Better Bedrest, where she was on the board for years; and a local high school and community college, where she talks about the interviewing process, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Jordan is currently working closely with Business Women’s Network by fundraising and hosting fashion shows to benefit their scholarship foundation. Jordan served on BWN’s board for CONTINUED >

February 2020 | Columbia Lifestyle

19

THE AR T OF ESTEEM BUILDING (CONTINUED)

three years. She says, “You need to see where you can get in there and help at least one person have a better day every day.”

While she’s leading with her heart, Jordan is not lacking on the skills. When she decided to take this business on 13 years ago, she got information on how to fit and what to order straight from the source: the manufacturers.

However, until she procured a brick-and-mortar location, they were hesitant to work with her. Understandably, they were protective of their brands. So, she found other ways. “I went to a trade show, and it was like being dropped onto another planet. But, I knew if I could sell biotech, I could sell anything.

In biotech, I felt like a partner to my clients – like I provided a service. I got to know people individually and learned their needs. I wanted to do this in my new business, too.”

Owners of a shop called Top Drawer in New Hampshire took Jordan under their wings. They brought her out for a week and mentored her on the basics.

CONTINUED >

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Columbia Lifestyle | February 2020

February 2020 | Columbia Lifestyle

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THE AR T OF ESTEEM BUILDING (CONTINUED) First, she learned that the art of bra fitting is not scientific. There is no standard unit of measurement for bras among manufacturers. Once she’d signed her lease, she contacted the manufacturers that her New Hampshire friends used. They came to work with her, sharing details about their individual brands and helping her learn what makes a good fit.

Now, Bra la la has more than 5,000 bras in their store with more than 200 sizes to choose from. “We have as close to a custom fit as you can get. If we don’t have it, we’ll make it,” Jordan adds, explaining that they’ve altered larger cups onto bras for nursing mothers and custom fitted bras for clients with scoliosis. They’ve worked with post-mastectomy patients and older women whose lifestyles are changing. What they offer is an experience, and that’s what Jordan hopes will keep people coming into the store in a time when online is easier. “Eight out of ten times, we can put someone into a better fitting bra. We feel like fairy godmothers seeing the amazement on our customers faces when they are fitted in the right size bra.”

While the store also sells bridal trousseaus, bra sized swimwear, pj’s, chemises, robes and-now men’s underwear, the idea behind it all is the same. She says, “A good fit helps you feel better about yourself. Your clothes fit better, you stand up straighter ready to take on a new day.”

Visit them at bra-la-la.com.

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Columbia Lifestyle | February 2020

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23

LOCALLY OWNED

AN ARTIST’S PALETTE ART THAT YOU CAN TOUCH AND TASTE IS ALWAYS ON THE MENU!

ARTICLE KATRINA HALL PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BY KUPCAKES AND CO. IN AN ERA THAT IS ARGUABLY DEFINED BY SOCIAL MEDIA, KUPCAKES AND CO. is definitely a contender for the “most interesting feed” award. Cakes and their counterparts, cupcakes, are a popular and versatile mediums to showcase creativity and artistry. Under the stewardship of owner Michelle Kupiec, Kucpcakes & Co is a stellar example of this.

Upon entering the Elkridge location the first thing you notice, aside from the mouthwatering smells, is the simple beauty of a well-executed cupcake: perfect size, thoughtful toppings, and a signature swirl of frosting. Every detail is performed with such care, it is hard not to feel the love that is put into its production. Love is definitely a major influence in this bustling shop. Kupcakes and Co. is a venture that is rooted in passion and healing.

After Kupiec’s daughter, Amanda, underwent spinal surgery in 2007, it was an interest in baking that helped her recover. “She baked her way through the pain,” says Kupiec, “she baked so much, we started giving stuff away.” Her daughter is now fully recovered and expanding her own culinary career.

CONTINUED >

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Columbia Lifestyle | February 2020

February 2020 | Columbia Lifestyle

25

LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

Adaptation has helped catalyze the creativity that makes Kupcakes & Co. a success.

The designers ability to interpret, design, and execute is truly an art. Kupiec speaks very highly of her artist. Customers bring in pictures of what they want and then ask the designers to ‘put their spin on it’. “They love that because that's when they get to really work, they love it.

I have a great staff,” says Kupiec.

Kupiec credits Rachel Raskob, lead cake decorator, with conceptualizing design combinations. “I always enjoy the challenge in bringing all of these ideas together in new ways.” Raskob says of the process. From the first look to the last bite, the craftsmanship and creativity is truly something to behold.

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Columbia Lifestyle | February 2020

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February 2020 | Columbia Lifestyle

27

CULINARY CREATIONS

D at e N i g h t I n

A NIGHT IN WITH YOUR FAVORITE PERSON CAN STILL BE HIGH END AND FUN!

ARTICLE ANIKA BATY-MILLS PHOTOGRAPHY EDISON MANALO POEMTOGRAPHY

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Columbia Lifestyle | February 2020

LET US SUGGEST SOMETHING INTIMATE AND FUN. Our beautiful couple Robert and Dina Abercrombie have decided to do Date Night....in.

Personal Chef Pedro Duarte shows the couple how to make a beautiful Surf and Turf meal in their own kitchen. It’s a great twist on a romantic meal, without leaving the house. Even if you mess it up, you did it together!

cuban style ceviche I n g r e d i e n ts Prep the day before + 1lb White Fish + 1 cup Red Onion + 1 cup Grape Fruit Juice + 1/2 cup Lemon Juice + 4Tbs Orange Juice + 1 Tsp Cilantro + 2 Tsp Cumin + Salt and pepper + 2 Tbsp Jalapenos (optional)

Method 01 Cut fish into 1/4 inch dice 02 Slice red onion, jalapenos thin, cilantro fine 03 In a mixing bowl mix together all ingredients 04 Marinate overnight

filet mignon I n g r e d i e n ts + 1-7oz Filet Mignon + 1tsp Montreal Seasoning + 3oz Whole Main Lobster +3oz Roasted Brussel Sprouts + 2oz Whole Butter + 2 tsp Salt and Pepper

Method 01 Make sure work area is clean and sanitized.

Gather all ingredients.

02 Season filet with montreal seasonings on both sides.

03 Using a hot sautee pan, melt butter. Once butter browns, sear both sides until desired level of doneness.

04 In 500°F oven, roast brussels sprouts until brown. Add salt and pepper.

05 Fill a pot with water, bring to a boil. Add lobster and cook for 15 min.

CONTINUED >

February 2020 | Columbia Lifestyle

29

CULINARY CRE ATIONS (CONTINUED)

mashed potatoes I n g r e d i e n ts + 1lbs baking potatoes, peeled and quarterd

03 In a small sauce pan heat butter and

+ 1/2 cup milk

milk over low heat until butter is melted.Â

+ 1 Tbsp of butter

04 Using a potatoe masher or electric

+Salt and pepper to taste

beater, slowly blend milk mixture into pota-

Method

Columbia Lifestyle | February 2020

salt and pepper to taste.

01 Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.

05 Using your own creative flare, plate

02 Add potatoes and cook until tender, but

as desired!

still firm, about 15min; drain.

30

toes until smooth and creamy. Season with

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At Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, we have a wide range of home financing products to We keep the process as simple as possible by: ensure you get the best option for your • Providing application options — in person, over the phone, securely online or through our mobile app situation. Plus, we'll personally guide • Offering loan products that meet your financial needs and goals y o uyou thrabout oughyour theloan enoptions tire loan process to • Helping you make informed decisions by educating elp you m ke infand orm ed decisions • Guiding you through the entire loan process from thehapplication toaclosing beyond • Approving loans quickly through our in-house underwriting and funding badepartments sed on your needs.

Our way is the FAIR WAY

SERVICE. Speed. Satisfaction.

Our Fairway home finoffers ancing options include: a wide range of financing options, including: •

Fix•eFixedd- andand adjuadjustable-rate stable-rate mormortgages tgages • Ju• m bo m ortand gageConventional s (ARMs) FHA, VA* loans •M Zero (A R s) down payment options with Rural Housing • ZeroProgram down pay(USDA)** ment options** • Jumbo financing • Refinancing options • Loans for first-time homebuyers

•

FHA, VA,* Conventional and USDA loans

•

Down payment assistance (DPA)** grants

•

First-time homebuyer financing

•

Refinancing

Contact me today!

David Koonce

David Koonce

Sr. Mortgage Consultant, NMLS# 480428

Sr. Mortgage Consultant, NMLS# 480428

Direct: (410) 220-0205 Fax: 815-301-3355 dkoonce@fairwaymc.com www.myfairwaymd.com

Direct: (410) 220-0205 Fax: 815-301-3355 : 3013323234 dkoonce@fairwaymc.com www.myfairwaymd.com 7001 Heritage Village Plaza, Suite 250 & 255 & 260 Gainesvillle, VA 20155

Download the FairwayNOW app! https://mtgpro.co/7j5uj

BD

7001 Heritage Village Plaza, Suite 250 & 255 & 260 Gainesvillle, VA 20155 *VA loans subject to individual VA Entitlement amounts and eligibility, qualifying factors such as income and credit standards, and property limits. Fairway is not affiliated with any government agencies. These materials are not from VA, HUD or FHA, and were not approved by VA, HUD or FHA, or any other government agency. **Eligibility subject to program stipulations, qualifying factors, applicable income and debt-to-income (DTI) restrictions, and property limits. Copyright © 2019 Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. NMLS\#2289. 4750 S. Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718, 1866-912-4800. All rights reserved. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates and programs are subject to change without prior notice. All products are subject to credit and property approval. Not all products are available in all states or for all dollar amounts. Other restrictions and limitations may apply. Equal Housing Lender. Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation NMLS Entity ID #2289 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

David has been living and working in Howard County since 2001. Although he is licensed to help clients in MD, DC, VA and PA, David loves working with the residents of his local community in Howard County the most.

3292144

*VA loans subject to individual VA Entitlement amounts and eligibility, qualifying factors such as income and credit standards, and property limits. Fairway is not affiliated with any government agencies. These materials are not from VA, HUD or FHA, and were not approved by VA, HUD or FHA, or any other government agency. **Eligibility subject to program stipulations, qualifying factors, applicable income and debt-to-income (DTI) restrictions, and property limits. Copyright © 2019 Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. NMLS\#2289. 4750 S. Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718, 1-866-912-4800. All rights reserved. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates and programs are subject to change without prior notice. All products are subject to credit and property approval. Not all products are available in all states or for all dollar amounts. Other restrictions and 3292144 limitations may apply. Equal Housing Lender. Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation NMLS Entity ID #2289 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

February 2020 | Columbia Lifestyle

31

FEBRUARY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1

available for students in Howard

support of the Keys to Success

County and the surrounding regions.

Group's health and educational ini-

AN EVENING WITH: SOUL CRACKERS

14 private schools will be in atten-

tiatives. Purchase early bird tickets

dance at the Miller Branch Howard

in advance to save!

County Library from 6:00-8:00 pm,

The Soundry 10221 Wincopin Circle

showcasing available services for stu-

Columbia, MD 21044

dents in pre-k through grade 12.

The Soundry welcomes back the

11

SCHOOL'S OUT WITH NINJABE

TECHNOLOGY CAFÉ

School out? Stop by for a fun-filled

East Columbia 50+ Center 6600

day of Ninja Warrior Obstacle Racing,

Cradlerock Way Columbia, MD 20145

Interactive Bouldering Games, and

Hoopes (keyboards), Wayne Sulc (sax-

Are you an adult who wants to learn

much more. Don't stay home staring

ophone), and Chris Hutton (trumpet),

how to maximize the use of your digi-

at the t.v. or your cell phone. Get

the house will be rockin’. Come on

tal devices? Or are you a student who

active. Have fun. Stay fit. No rock

down and bring your dancing shoes!

wants to use your tech-savvy to help

wall or mechanical bulls during the

others? Join us on Tuesdays, once a

session. NinjaBe safety socks are

4

month, for Columbia Association’s

included in the price. Info: Jamie

free Technology Café. For more infor-

Brentlinger, 410-313-1665 or jbren-

FREE FERTILITY EDUCATION SEMINAR

mation, contact the East Columbia

tlinger@howardcountymd.gov.

50+ Center at 410-313-7684.

Soul Crackers, a 9-piece Memphis & Motown soul band featuring timeless songs, a kicking horn section and great soloist. With Keith Grimes (guitar), Chuck

Ronnie Sullivan

Newmyer (drums),

(bass), Spencer

CCRM Fertility 5450 Knoll N Dr Suite 270, Columbia, MD 21045

FREE fertility education seminar.

Learn more about infertility, treatment options and the various paths to parenthood.

9301 Snowden River Pkwy, Columbia, MD 21046

22

14

COMMUNITY COMPANIONS INFORMATION SESSION

VALENTINE'S DAY MURDER MYSTERY DINNER

Trellis Center in suite 206, 10760

5485 Twin Knolls Rd,

Hickory Ridge Road, in Columbia.

Discussion topics:

Columbia, MD 21045

Howard County General Hospital

+ Infertility overview

Whodunnit

the

is seeking volunteers to provide

+ Fertility testing & treatments

Doubletree by Hilton Columbia have

non-medical support to patients;

+ Intrauterine insemination (IUI)

teamed up to bring you "Hollywood

often older adults who live alone,

+ In vitro fertilization (IVF)

Homicide." This is fun way to cele-

experience

+ Genetic testing (PGT/CCS)

brate Valentines Day with that spe-

and have chronic conditions. The

+ LGBTQ family building options

cial someone. Enjoy performing arts,

hospital

+ Fertility preservation: egg, embryo

food & drink for $75.00 per person

patients based on schedule and need.

& sperm freezing

(advanced purchase).

Companions

for

Hire

and

+ Third-party reproduction RSVP TODAY! Adults only, please.

Contact us at (571) 789-2100.

32

17

pairs

impairment

Companions are

with

conscientious,

respectful, trustworthy, compassion-

15

4

LOVE YOUR SWEETHEARTS BRUNCH

HOWARD COUNTY PRIVATE SCHOOL FAIR

Enjoy a brunch buffet featuring ready

9421 Frederick Rd Ellicott City

less mimosas and more! Come to

Maryland 21042

the Love Your Sweethearts brunch

Come learn about the independent

for good vibes, great food and bev-

and faith-based private school options

erages, and live entertainment in

Columbia Lifestyle | February 2020

functional

5440 Old Tucker Row, Columbia, MD

to order omelets, fresh fruit, bottom-

ate, and at least 18 years old. For more information, visit HCGH.org/ j2bhvolunteer, or call 410-720-8788.

23 MD RRCA 10 MILE CLUB CHALLENGE

10600 Hickory Ridge Road Columbia, MD United States

The Howard County Striders host the annual RRCA (Road Runners Club of America) challenge 10M. This event is a race between all RRCA clubs in Maryland and DC.

29

F A M I LY

WHO RUNS THE ZOO?

10375 Little Patuxent Parkway

Columbia, Maryland 21044

The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore in partnership with the Howard County Arts Council presents an hour with amazing animals. Instructors from

&

GENERAL DENTISTRY

Dr. Mizrachi and his friendly dental team are dedicated to providing you with comprehensive dentistr y in a comfor table and caring environment. We can accommodate all of your dental needs, ranging from routine visits to cosmetic dentistr y. We pride ourselves in being a family-oriented practice, caring for patients of all ages.

The Maryland Zoo will be present in Baltimore's ZOOmobile and will share through interactive activities and live animal presentations. Contact with an animal may occur. Ages 6 & up; Limited space. Tickets available 15 minutes before class.

INVISALIGN®

|

VENEERS

ROOT CANALS

|

|

F U L L M O U T H R E S TO R AT I O N

|

PREVENTIVE CARE

EXTRACTIONS

|

WHITENING

We are always accepting submissions

(410) 381-0505

for events you'd like to see included

columbiamddentistry.com

9891 Broken Land Parkway, Columbia, MD 21046

in our Calendar section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact Us tab at

Nights and Weekend Hours Available

LifestylePubs.com/Columbia.

February 2020 | Columbia Lifestyle

33

LOCAL’S CHOICE ARTICLE ANIKA BATY-MILLS

Purpose driven ART TAKING ROOT

BALTIMORE

CITY

BORN,

SHERYL

FARMER,

WAS A SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER IN THE HOWARD COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM AT SWANSFIELD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FOR JUST OVER 15 YEARS. Farmer retired from the school system in 2003 to care of her youngest child. Volunteering in the school’s art room and plenty of household art projects to tend to; Farmer kept busy. This provided her the opportunity to further explore her love of art.

However, at the age of 42, she was diagnosed with Idiopathic Retinal Myopathy, a condition in which the retina begins to detach from the eye. Farmer's ability to see is severly impaired in the left eye and glasses provide some relief for the right. She began to create mosaics because she loved how they looked. “My vision started getting bad on me, but I realized while the little details were hard, I could see a big picture. I started drawing by the square so to speak, building up the images with different shades until it looked right big-picture wise. I draw the image on plywood, then I just go for it.”

Farmer has completed commissioned pieces, given some away as gifts; but she definitely has a favorite piece. Out of her love for children she created a beautiful bear for Bryant Woods Elementary. From adversity, she has created beauty and given joy to others in the process. Thank you for the work you do, Sheryl. Columbia is just a little more beautiful because of you.

34

Columbia Lifestyle | February 2020

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