Columbia, MD August 2020

AUGUST 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Columbia

Kids and Pets

SNACK HACKS

EXOTIC PETS

EDUCATION IN THE COUNTY

Developer Jim Rouse

founded

Columbia with a vision that allows anyone and everyone who wants to be a part of this community to feel respected, welcomed, and safe. Different ethnicities, backgrounds, and experiences are not to divide us; they are to bring us together. Let us remember that we all have something to contribute.

As we grow Columbia, let us remember that when one of us is suffering -all of us suffer.

In the words of Oakland Mills High School students... we are stronger together.

Columbia Lifestyle Magazine: 410.441.3002 columbialifestylemag

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

AUGUST 2020 PUBLISHER

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

Are we taking care of them or are they taking care of us?

Veronica Barnes | veronica.barnes@lifestylepubs.com Sherkiya Wedgeworth-Hollowell SALES DIRECTOR

Christopher Mills | chris.mills@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall

I AM GOING TO ADMIT IT AND DON'T JUDGE ME FOR IT, BUT I’M ……..A

LAYOUT DESIGNER

CAT PERSON. I know for some of you this is a sacrilegious statement, but it’s true.

Jayme Emery

My first pet was a black cat named Mittens. Clearly I was not superstitious as a child. It was my first lesson in what it takes to care for, well, anything or anyone. I potty trained her, fed her, and loved on her for about 18 years. She was independent but would greet me every time I came home and slept at the foot of my bed every night. Several studies show animals provide wonderful companionship and can be

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Gabrielle Lewis, Katrina Hall, Veronica Barnes CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

HCPSS, Fusion Academy

a source of comfort to those struggling with post traumatic stress disorders, anxiety and other mental health challenges. So, though I took care of her, I can attest to the comfort her presence would bring me; especially during my senior year of high school. The picture above is of a young woman whose life plans unexpectedly changed. As an athlete my plan was to play basketball in college and eventually play professionally. At the beginning of the school year I began to receive college recruitment letters and was extremely excited to see where I would land. Basketball

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

season began and during a scrimmage I tore a ligament in my knee. In 2020 the

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

surgery required is considered routine, but in the early 90’s it was the end of a career

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

path. I became depressed, mourning the loss of a dream. I didn’t truly share how

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

I felt about it with anyone. After returning from the hospital, Mittens didn’t ask me

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

any questions. She would just snuggle with me, and I didn’t have to talk about it. It

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

was comforting and it was what I needed. In this issue let us attempt to bring you comfort with wonderful stories about our community; starting with congratulating our local high school seniors. We listen as Howard County School Superintendent, Dr. Martirano, shares his thoughts on the future of our public schools. We also introduce you to a wonderful family who found the perfect home in King’s Contrivance for themselves and their four legged little ones. You will find fun snack hacks for your kids AND your pets. Comfort is a concept that has left our current vocabulary in reference to the health of our community and our racial relations with each other.

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA

Let us allow this time to change us for the better. Let us increase our understanding

MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK

of companionship and care. May we be inspired to care for one another the way our

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pets care for us. Let us provide support to those who are hurting in our community and let us find ways to move forward where no one is left alone.

Anika Baty-Mills, Publisher

CityLifestyle.com/Columbia

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO 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.

4

Columbia Lifestyle | August 2020

Information in Columbia Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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5

INSIDE THE ISSUE AUGUST 2020

FEATURES 14 Fun Snack Hacks Let your kids play with their food

18 Perspective Is Everything Dr. Martirano shares his thoughts about how our schools will move forward

26 More Than a Piggy Bank Helping your teens learn how to manage their finances

14 26

32 A Place for Us A family finds its ideal home

32

18

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Local Limelight

14

Culinary Creations

24 Animal Kingdom 26 Financial Buzz 29 DIY 32 Open House

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GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

3.

Congratulations to our Howard County Seniors!

As the 2019-2020 school year has come to an unwonted end, we honor our graduates for your tenacity, hardwork, and commitment. You have risen to the challenge before you; your cap and gown are your victory banners. Congratulations Class of 2020!

"The progress of the world will call for the best that all of us have to give." -Mary McLeod Bethune

4.

5.

6.

1. Natalie Ward Hammond High School | 2. Marisa D. Evans Hammond High School | 3. Matthew E. Jacoby Mt. Hebron High School | 4. Paige Rosenfeld Long Reach High School | 5. Daniel E. Weatherford Wilde Lake High School | 6. Rahsaan M. Foster Oakland Mills High School

Get yourself ready to financially RECOVER from the COVID-19 shutdown

Everyone faces challenges on their financial journey

but a crisis like a pandemic can add significant bumps in the road. At CCCSMD, we can help you navigate the struggles of meeting financial commitments, lead you through budgeting in a crisis, and layout a plan for financial recovery and success. We are a Columbia based HUD-approved, non-profit with over 50 years of experience helping members of our community reach their financial goals. Our Financial Advocates will work with you to develop tailored solutions so you and your family can thrive as our economy recovers.

WHAT WE DO: Establish a Crisis Budget Discuss short-term housing concerns Explore long-term solutions for financial recovery Provide information about community resources and emergency assistance programs

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Columbia Lifestyle | August 2020

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT

L OV E , M O T I VAT E , T E AC H ARTICLE GABRIELLE LEWIS

10

ON FRIDAY, MARCH 13TH, 100 PERCENT OF FUSION

for his or her individual needs. A foundational principle

ACADEMY COURSES WERE TAUGHT ON CAMPUS.

of Fusion Academy is providing holistic education. This

By Monday, March 16th, all courses were taught 100

approach allows the instructor and family to work together

percent online.

to create the best possible plan for the students success.

Fusion Academy is a private institution that was

Fusion Academy has over 50 Â campuses throughout the

uniquely prepared for the immediate transition from

country, each branch dedicated to addressing specific

physical to online learning in the wake of COVID-19. In

personal goals for the emotional, mental, and academic

a matter of a single weekend, instructors and staff of the

development of young scholars.

Columbia campus worked together to assist students

Lisa Gottlieb has had the opportunity to not only pro-

in adjusting to their new normal. A stark advantage

vide insight into the many benefits of the academy as the

that Fusion Academy possesses is the individualized

Head of School but is also a witness to its power in her own

approach of the courses taught.

home. Gottlieb began her extensive career as an instructor

Designed with the specific needs of every single stu-

in the Howard County school system for eighteen years—

dent in mind, the nontraditional teaching model of the

teaching English and serving as a school-based Central

school emphasizes personalized support and caters to

Office Resource Teacher for Gifted and Talented students.

children of all learning proficiencies. Whether the students

Throughout her time in education, she noticed that her own

participate in one-on-one classes with instructors or small

daughter was experiencing intense anxiety and challenges

group courses, each child has the opportunity to engage

in the traditional classroom. After years of researching var-

with academic material using a technique best suited

ious teaching methods and settings, Gottlieb branched her

Columbia Lifestyle | August 2020

professional practices to different forms of education, including working at alternative and private schools and in administration.

Intertwining the love for her daughter and her professional development, Gottlieb sought ways to find a learning environment that could both offer the support her daughter needed and educational flexibility. Gottlieb later became an executive function coach, assisting other parents and teachers who have children that have struggled to succeed in a traditional classroom. When Gottlieb was invited to Fusion Academy to conduct a development program for the instructors, she had no idea how important the school would become to her.

As she began researching the school, she fell in love with it’s staff, values, and methods of teaching. Realizing that Fusion Academy was a perfect fit for her own daughter, Gottlieb was ecstatic to see how the students were given the intensive support they needed. She witnessed how students who have had painful experiences in traditional school environments found peace. It became evident to Gottlieb that the guidance provided by the instructors at Fusion Academy was totally unique, fully embodying the school’s motto: “Love. Motivate. Teach.”

Gottlieb later applied and became the Head of School, and has served as the local leader since November 2019. As more parents have learned of the individualized guidance that Fusion provides, the school has steadily expanded.

Fusion Academy students have the opportunity to take a wide variety of courses, now offered online. Along with core academic courses such as English and Mathematics, students are given the option to participate in art, music, technology, and wellness courses. In their virtual “homework

Lisa Gottlieb Director of Fusion Academy

“THE INSTRUCTORS AT FUSION ARE COMMITTED TO BEING A SUPPORT TEAM FOR OUR KIDS. IT’S AMAZING TO SEE THE RE-IGNITION OF PASSION AND CURIOSITY IN THE EYES OF STUDENTS.”

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Columbia

11

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED) cafe,” students are able to socialize with each other, play videogames, watch films, and discuss school while maintaining social distancing.

Despite missing the excitement and energy that the children bring to the school, Gottlieb is immensely proud of the staff and students at Fusion Academy. She notes that many of the students attending the school have anxiety, ADHD, dyslexia, and other challenges that can cause tension in a traditional school setting; coupling these challenges with the spread of COVID-19, this is an unprecedented and confusing time for adolescents.

Even against these odds, students at Fusion Academy are doing well and keeping themselves connected to each other. “When I heard my daughter on a Zoom call with one of the instructors, I could hear the joy in her voice,” Gottlieb shares, adding, “The instructors at Fusion are committed to being a support team for our kids. It’s amazing to see the re-ignition of passion and curiosity in the eyes of students.”

12

Columbia Lifestyle | August 2020

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CULINARY CREATIONS

LET YOUR KIDS PLAY WITH THEIR FOOD!

Fun Snack Hacks

ARTICLE VERONICA BARNES

14

Columbia Lifestyle | August 2020

KIDS ANIMAL SNACK

CREATIONS

LET YOUR KIDS’ IMAGINATIONS RUN WILD IN THE KITCHEN AS THEY USE…OH JUST ABOUT ANY FRUIT AS INGREDIENTS TO CREATE YUMMY, FUN MINI MASTERPIECES. Turn your kitchen into a healthy arts and crafts class where everyone is allowed to play with their food! Imagine their excitement when granted the power to decide which ingredients to use; and watch their eyes light up as they bite into their own creations.

INGREDIENTS + A slice of your favorite bread + Blueberries + Bananas + Strawberries + ©Nutella Spread + Dried Coconut strips or apples cut into strips + Peanut Butter or Peanut Butter Substitutes If peanut allergies are a concern, there are a number of peanut butter substitutes available. Our research led us to the following: Sunflower Seed Butter, Tahini, Cookie Butter, Soy Nut Butter, and Coconut Butter. You may have knowledge of other substitutes. Go wild!

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Columbia

15

CULINARY CREATIONS (CONTINUED)

PEANUT BUTTER BANANA PUPCAKES

(DOG CUPCAKES) https://jenwoodhouse.com/homemade-pupcakes/ Let us not forget our four legged family members. Treat your favorite fur baby with these Peanut Butter Banana Cupcakes, also known as “pupcakes.” There are a long list of delicious dog and cat treats that can be made right at home. We found this recipe along with “people” recipes, DIY projects and a host of other fun information and ideas at Jenwoodhouse.com. Follow these instructions and have your pet literally eating out of your hand.

INGREDIENTS + 1 large egg + 1 banana + 1/3 cup peanut butter + 1 cup carrots, shredded + 1/3 cup vegetable oil + 1/4 cup honey + 1 cup whole wheat flour + 1/3 cup 1-minute oats + 1/4 teaspoon baking soda + 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract + creamy peanut butter, for frosting

DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat the oven to 350º F and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.

2. Combine the egg, banana, carrots, peanut butter, oil, honey, and vanilla in a large bowl.

3. Mix the flour, baking soda, and oats in another large bowl.

4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients together.

5. Fill the cupcake liners about 2/3 full.

6. Bake for 15-20 minutes.

7. Frost with creamy peanut butter (optional).

16

Columbia Lifestyle | August 2020

Jen Woodhouse Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 Min Dog Food

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perspective is everything

HCPSS SUPERINTENDENT SHARES THE IMPORTANCE OF INNOVATION AND INCLUSION

18

Columbia Lifestyle | August 2020

DR. MICHAEL J. MARTIRANO IS INTI-

take note of the divide. “I view our kids [as]

MATELY

THE

not only students but like my own children,”

NECESSITY OF GROWTH IN A PAINFUL

he said, continuing, “Twenty-three percent is

ENVIRONMENT. Experiencing heartache

roughly 13,000 students. Thirteen thousand

after the death of his mother at a young age

of my kids are struggling to have access to

and living with foster families throughout his

basic resources, and we’re working to fix

adolescence, Dr. Martirano has developed

that.” As daunting as the number may be, Dr.

empathy for students in unstable environ-

Martirano and Howard County schools have

ments, developing into a mission of pro-

turned an unprecedented event into a trans-

viding equity and safety to the students of

formational moment, seeking to evaluate and

Howard County.

improve on the systems in place. Along with

ACQUAINTED

WITH

He began serving as the Superintendent

the transition from physical to digital classes

of schools in Howard County July of 2018

for students, Howard County Public School

after serving in various roles in educa-

System has created fourteen different meal

tion and administration over the course

distribution sites located throughout the

of

career,

county. With this food assistance in place,

including Superintendent of Schools in St.

an

expansive

three-decade

over a million meals have been distributed

Mary’s County (Maryland) as well as State

throughout Howard County.

Superintendent of Schools in West Virginia.

Dr. Martirano also recognized a signifi-

A naturally extroverted and exuberant soul,

cant need for more access to technology.

Dr. Martirano views himself as a teacher first

After receiving school board approval, Dr.

and foremost and is most invigorated when

Martirano was able to secure over 20,000

he is able to interact with the students and

Chromebooks for students in order for them

staff of Howard County. However, with the

to continue their education. Likewise, the

necessity of closing schools, the Howard

educators of Howard County participated in

County school system has had to dramati-

a training course designed to assist the tran-

cally adjust to meet the needs of students

sition from traditional classroom settings

and families.

to solely online. Although there has been a

The enforcement of social distancing came

period of adjustments for the schools, Dr.

with unexpected complications. Although

Martirano is extremely proud of the flexibility

Columbia is one of the wealthiest counties

of the community.

in the nation, roughly 23 percent of students

After the recent deaths of George

that attend Howard County schools are

Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and other African-

eligible to receive free and reduced lunches

Americans, Dr. Martirano knew that it was

and have inconsistent income. During the

paramount to use his platform to speak

closure the striking disparity of resources

against systemic racism. He had a com-

among students caused Dr. Martirano to

mencement speech prepared before the

ARTICLE GABRIELLE LEWIS | PHOTOGRAPHY HOWARD COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Columbia

19

PERSPECTIVE IS EVERYTHING (CONTINUED) news of Floyd’s death. However after learning of the news he knew it was his responsibility to include a direct discussion of discrimination and racism in our country.

During

the

Commencement,

Class Dr.

of

2020's

Martirano

Online

addressed

the 4,200 graduating students and the 39,000 viewers stating: “As we grapple with the social-emotional impacts of a pandemic that may have forever changed our daily lives, we have recently witnessed another senseless killing of an African American, George Floyd. It is important that we acknowledge this event, reflect on the hurt and pain we are feeling and resolve together to do our part to eradicate hate, condemn violence, and stand up to acts of racism within our own communities.”

Dr. Martirano proceeded to call the community to lead with empathy and openness while not falling into the role of bystander. Emphasizing the necessity for open communication and honest conversation, Dr. Martirano advises any student feeling overwhelmed with the current societal climate to not be afraid of reaching out.

Acknowledging that this year has produced unexpected and fear-inducing changes to the country, he urges young people to seek someone they trust— himself included—and build strong community relationships to create change. “Change comes when thoughtful groups of people take action,” he said, expressing his hope and excitement of witnessing that in the future.

In spite of the past months of tumultuous events, Dr. Martirano is inspired by the growth opportunity that the pandemic has provided for the county, challenging Howard County schools to evolve with more holistic resources for the community. With the beginning of the school year quickly approaching, Howard County has been working to create plans for the schools reopening. Keeping safety at the forefront, Dr. Martirano notes that the main focus is providing quality education in the healthiest environment possible.

The priorities include student and staff safety, and system operations; including transportation and managing the budget. It is also very important to provide access to quality instruction for all children. Although the incoming months are in a state of flux, the Howard County School System is dedicated to being prepared for the upcoming school year, becoming more inclusive and stronger than ever before.

20

Columbia Lifestyle | August 2020

“I VIEW OUR KIDS [AS] NOT ONLY STUDENTS BUT LIKE MY OWN CHILDREN.”

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Columbia

21

PERSPECTIVE IS EVERYTHING (CONTINUED)

“IT IS IMPORTANT THAT WE ACKNOWLEDGE THIS EVENT, REFLECT ON THE HURT AND PAIN WE ARE FEELING AND RESOLVE TOGETHER TO DO OUR PART TO ERADICATE HATE, CONDEMN VIOLENCE, AND STAND UP TO ACTS OF RACISM WITHIN OUR OWN COMMUNITIES.”

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23

ANIMAL KINGDOM

HOWARD COUNTY RESIDENT JEANIE BROADNAX LOVES ALL ANIMALS FROM THE DOMESTIC TO THE EXOTIC De'oge and Ruckus

Call of the Wild ARTICLE KATRINA HALL 24

Columbia Lifestyle | August 2020

Broadnax currently owns an African Grey Parrot (Risen Grey Boy) and a Double Yellow Headed Amazon Parrot (Sunny Green-not pictured)

UNCONVENTIONAL AND EXOTIC ANIMAL OWNER-

access to exotic animals and often limited screening, the

SHIP MAY SEEM LIKE A FOREIGN OR LUXURIOUS

misconception that they are commonplace or easy to take

CONCEPT TO MANY, BUT FOR HOWARD COUNTY

care of can cause harm to people and their pets. Broadnax

RESIDENT JEANIE BROADNAX, CREATURES OF ALL

joins many voices today who encourage responsibility,

TYPES WERE ALWAYS A PART OF HER LIFE. “I found

compassion, and above all, respectful interactions with

a baby raccoon when I was a kid, she was crying near my

animals that are not the typical cat, fish, or dog. “We need

dentist’s office. I took care of it, and my mom found out

a moment to remember that they are probably more terri-

four weeks later. Thankfully we lived in rural Pennsylvania

fied of us than we are of them. A little compassion can be

so getting her shots and care was easy. It was cool. And

beneficial for all of us,” she said.

we had a pet raccoon.”

A visit to a predatory bird reserve reiterated the impor-

When she got older, her passion for all creatures con-

tance of respect and proper handling to Broadnax and her

tinued. “We have two German Shepherds, De’ oge , and

husband. “My husband loves birds of prey. We visited the

Ruckus. We’ve also had birds (two parrots currently),

reserve and I remember being stunned by how huge the

bearded dragons, iguanas, baby squirrels, and rabbits.” Her

birds were, including the size of their talons. I was also

love for all animals presents itself in what she describes as

struck by how well the handler worked with the animal and

‘weird ways’, too. “Some people can see a deer hit by a

emphasized respect for its nature. It wasn’t like putting on

car, or laying on the side of the road, injured. I can’t. I have

a show. There was this beautiful bird and we respected

to stop. That’s what the non-emergency line and Animal

it for allowing us to see him up close.” While the photo

Control are for. Once you take care of an animal that isn’t

opportunities and social media attention that comes with

just your pet, it makes you search inside of yourself. You

exotic pet ownership are a driving force behind a surge in

value those lives even when they can’t cuddle in your lap.

adoptions, there needs to be a surge in research before

It’s a living creature on the side of the road; you can’t just

committing to such a responsibility. Even the personal

say ‘it’s not my problem’ anymore.”

definition of what a ‘pet’ is may need to change when

Broadnax credits success with her animals to widely

undertaking an exotic creature.

available information and pet care resources online.

“I think people need to understand that not all pets

Specialty food, medication, and habitat amendments can

meow or bark; some aren’t there for cuddling or enter-

often be shipped the same or the next day. The animals

tainment. You have to learn about what that creature

themselves are also more widely available thanks to the

needs if you bring it into your life, not the other way

growth of online transactions. However, with increased

around, “says Broadnax.

CityLifestyle.com/Columbia

25

more than a piggy bank

FINANCIAL BUZZ

ARTICLE KATRINA HALL 26

Columbia Lifestyle | August 2020

SHAUN EDDY, CEO OF THE OXFORD PLANNING GROUP SAYS, “THE EARLIER WE CAN GET YOUNG ADULTS TO LEARN ABOUT BUDGETS AND SAVINGS, THE BETTER. I think we are all guilty of not paying enough attention to financial education at some point. Not teaching our kids the value of what they have and how to manage it.”

Eddy believes neglecting to have a financial plan or understand what that means creates a lapse in

money earning tips for teens: TIP 1 Practice the job process: Teach children how to interview, make phone calls, and introduce themselves.

financial literacy. Explaining financial security and its concepts does not have to be complicated. “For example, I give a child $20 and ask, ‘What are you

TIP 2 Seek internship opportunities: Get experience, paid or unpaid.

gonna spend it on?’ Give them the idea early that

The advantages of networking cannot be overstated.

it isn’t necessarily responsible to spend all of their money on wants. Start with something simple: 50 percent goes to needs, 30 percent goes to wants, and 20 percent goes into savings. Even if you don’t have money for significant savings, you can learn to

TIP 3 Find general employment: wage jobs, gigs and odd jobs like babysitting and shoveling can contribute to significant savings over time.

track expenses and eventually get an idea of your financial goals.”

At the beginning of the learning process, it

TIP 4 Start savings accounts for your kids: Perhaps a basic invest-

is important to have a basic understanding of

ment account to teach them how to make their money work for them.

income versus expenses. The next step would be creating a financial plan that includes retirement.

Eddy encourages families to have the retirement talk early. Eddy states, “The earlier children and young adults understand the benefits of early and frequent saving the better.”

CityLifestyle.com/Columbia

27

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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).

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*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 limitations may apply. Equal Housing Lender. Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation NMLS Entity ID #2289 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

28

Columbia Lifestyle | August 2020

3292144

3292144

DIY

+HANDCRAFTED+

FUN PAPER CRAFT PROJECTS FOR YOU + YOUR KIDDO ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

M AT E R I A L S + Cardboard + White crepe paper + Construction paper + Glue + Scissors + Beads, yarn, pom poms, etc.

DIRECTIONS 1. Take your cardboard and cut two pieces into the shape of a llama (we found a stencil online). Then, cut strips of cardboard the depth you want your llama to be. You’ll connect these to either side of the llama cutouts to enclose your piñata.

2. Glue your strip of cardboard all along the edge of one side of your llama, then glue to the other side.

(Be sure to leave a hole you can close up later so you can fill it with your favorite candy!)

PIÑLLAMA

3. Starting at the neck, cover the front, back and sides of your llama with white crepe paper, cutting a slit every half inch or so to create the traditional piñata look.

4. Cover all remaining sides the neck and head with white construction paper, cut to fit your design.

5. Using construction paper, beads, pom poms, tassels, buttons, etc., add some flair to the rest of your llama!

Bonus points for incorporating different shapes and textures into your final product.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Columbia

29

DIY (CONTINUED)

M AT E R I A L S + Pink or coral construction paper + White construction paper + Black construction paper + Pink feathers + Glue + Scissors

DIRECTIONS 1. Using a stencil, cut out the pieces you’ll need for your flamingo from construction paper: Pink: 4-6 circles for the body (depending on how “fluffy” you want it), neck and legs White: Outline of the beak Black: Beak 2. Fold the circles in half and glue them all together back-to-back to create a sphere that looks like an accordion.

3. Glue the beak and white stripe to the neck, then glue the neck to a flat side of your inner-most circle.

4. Add the legs, a black dot for an eye and pink feathers for the ultimate flamin-goal.

30

Columbia Lifestyle | August 2020

FLAMING OA L S

COSMIC PENCIL CUP

M AT E R I A L S + Cardboard + Construction Paper + Glue + Scissors + Markers

DIRECTIONS 1. Cut out the shapes for your rocket ship. You’ll need: (2) rocket bodies for the front and back of your ship, (2) fins, (1) nozzle, (1) nose cone, (3) rectangles for your pencil cup, and any additional cutouts for decorations, like windows.

2. Glue the your rectangular pieces to one side of your rocket ship, then glue the back on. You should have an open spot at the top where your pencils will go.

3. Glue the rest of your pieces to the front of your rocket and add embellishments as desired.

CityLifestyle.com/Columbia

31

OPEN HOUSE

a place for us THE CRUZ FAMILY FINDS THE PERFECT HOME FOR THEM AND THEIR FOUR LEGGED FAMILY MEMBERS ARTICLE GABRIELLE LEWIS

32

Columbia Lifestyle | August 2020

SINCE ITS DEVELOPMENT IN THE EARLY 1970S, KINGS CONTRIVANCE HAS BECOME A THRIVING COMMUNITY OF ABOUT 11,000 PEOPLE, THE THIRD LARGEST OF THE NINE VILLAGES THAT MAKE UP COLUMBIA. Howard County hosts a collection of serene communities that offer both a connection to the natural beauty of the area and various social activities to enjoy, from witnessing the beauty of the Patapsco Valley State Park to testing one’s courage on the ropes course at Terrapin Adventures. The area proves itself to be alluring to individuals from all over the state. For new homeowners Juan and Angie Albertorio-Cruz, buying a home in Kings Contrivance proved to be one of the best decisions they have made for their family.

Throughout the home buying processes, the Cruzes were looking to find a home that could not only accommodate their growing family and four-legged friends, but a place to build a new life. The Cruzes searched throughout Columbia, finally finding a home in Kings Contrivance with the assistance of Sarah Anderson, local realtor. Anderson has had thirteen years’ experience as a realtor, specializing her business in Central Maryland, particularly Howard County.

“Juan and Angie came to me to find a place that would not only suit the needs of the family right now, but can serve as a place for retirement later on. We had the opportunity to come together and talk about the important things specific to the family: What kind of business are you close to? What can you live with, and live without? How does this move enhance your overall quality of life with your family in the future?” said Anderson. With her help, the Cruzes were able to find a home that straddled the necessity for being close to a major city and indulging in the nature surrounding the house. The red brick Colonial home has perfect amenities for a growing family, including five bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, an expansive backyard and a two-car garage.

At first glance, the house gained the Cruzes immediate attention. “When we first saw the house in person we found the exterior very charming. Going inside for the first time, we loved the modern renovations that the previous owners had done.

The open floor plan and natural lighting created a bright and welcoming environment that we immediately fell in love with.

We also loved the location and size of the backyard. The house is located in an accessible but quiet street, with no immediate traffic,” shared Mr. Cruz.

Ultimately, the inside of the home was the major draw for the family. “The house was perfect for the four of us and our four dogs as well. It was not too big that it was overwhelming, but it had enough space for each family member to make their own.

The kitchen was also an important factor in the decision as it is the heart of our household. The modern appliances and spacious granite counter space was a great fit for all of the cooking CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Columbia

33

OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)

and gathering that happens in the kitchen. The expansive backyard was an amazing fit for all of our dogs and with the addition of a fence it became the perfect space for them to run around and play,” said Mrs. Cruz. The house they bought was not solely a building, but a place for the Cruzes to spend time with their loved ones and enhance their quality of life. When not attending school or hard at work, the Cruzes love to engage with the community. Whether it is taking time to walk the dogs on the Patuxent Branch Trail or having dinner with neighbors, living in Columbia has been a welcome change of pace.

As the Cruzes settle into their home, they look to find ways to make it their own. The family has taken steps to create a more efficient and conducive space, including building a garden for the wildlife that visits the property, remodeling two of the bathrooms, and installing new windows all around the house. In the coming years, the family hopes to extend their back deck in order to build a solarium to enjoy the winter months.

For new homebuyers in the Columbia area, Juan and Angie suggest finding someone who knows the area and is familiar with the true beauty of the community: “We would advise for any first-time homebuyers looking in Columbia to take the time to explore and learn about all of its different neighborhoods. If you’re looking for a family friendly neighborhood that provides the opportunity for an active lifestyle then Kings Contrivance would be a great fit!” If you are looking for help to find just the right home, call Sarah Anderson of the Maryland Real Estate Network at 240-456-0016.

34

Columbia Lifestyle | August 2020

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