May 17, 4:00-9:00 p.m. Preakness® Celebration Hot Air Balloon Festival. Come to an exciting, family-friendly celebration with enchanting balloon glows, tethered rides and balloon flights, walk-thru balloons, arts and crafts and great local food. Located at the Turf Valley Resort and Conference Center. For more information- click on the link!

May 17 or May 22. Living With Diabetes.  Have you recently been diagnosed with diabetes or have you been living with diabetes and would like to improve your health? Our diabetes specialists will teach you how to change your habits, give you practical, attainable solutions for staying healthy and design a diabetes management plan to fit your lifestyle. Living with Diabetes is a two-day, interactive, group course taught by an endocrinologist, diabetes nurse educator, dietitian, psychologist, podiatrist, and exercise specialist. Choose a day program or a condensed evening program. Day classes are held Friday and the following Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Evening classes are held Wednesday and Thursday from 6:00 -9:00 p.m. Most insurance plans cover all or part of this program.  The Bolduc Family Outpatient Center at Howard County General Hospital. For more information or to register, please call 443-718-3000

May 18, 10:30 a.m. Caregiver’s Support Group. Meets on the third Saturday of each month at 10:30 a.m.- noon or the first Tuesday of each month at 3:30 p.m. FREE. Registration is required.  Call the Claudia Mayer Cancer Resource Center at 410 740-5858 for more information.

May 18. 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Springing Up Healthy. Howard County General Hospital (HCGH) hosts a free family health event at The Mall in Columbia, featuring community experts, topics and activities to help kids stay healthy, active and safe. Sample a selection of healthy food from Panera Bread and Williams-Sonoma. Enter drawings for an iPad courtesy of HCGH, a bicycle and helmet from Sears and a gift certificate from SA Elite.

May 18, 2:00 p.m. Math Circle. Are you good at math? Do you love numbers? Join the HCLS Math Circle at the East Columbia Branch to learn about patterns and intricacies in the world of mathematics. Use logic and problem solving skills to solve brain teasing problems. Ages 11-14. Register online or by calling 410.313.7700.

May 18, 4:00 p.m. Calling All Volunteers. Volunteering is good for you, so be sure to sign up at the Miller Branch to make reading fun for kids and earn service learning hours. Volunteers assist HCLS instructors with the summer reading club and other tasks. To register for this orientation session, submit a volunteer application to the teen instructor at the branch where you would like to volunteer. Accepted applicants will be contacted to confirm registration. Ages 13-17. Register by calling 410.313.1950. Offered again 5/22 at 7:00 p.m. Also offered on 5/24 at 4:00 p.m. at the East Columbia Branch; register by calling 410.313.7700.

May 20, 10:15 & 11:15 a.m. Twist and Shout. Music and movement for little ones with an adult at the Elkridge Branch. 30 min. Ages infant-5. No registration required.

May 20, 10:30- 12:00 p.m. HCGH Benefit Golf Classic The premiere golf fundraising event in Howard County. Winner of hole-in-one challenge will win a car from title sponsor, Apple Ford Lincoln. 10:30 a.m. – registration/putting contest. 12:00 p.m. – tee off at the Turf Valley Resort and Conference Center

May 20, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Blood Pressure Screening. Free, walk-in blood pressure screening and monitoring at the Glenwood Branch offered by Howard County General Hospital. 1st & 3rd Mondays. A Well & Wise event. No registration required.

May 20, 4:30 p.m. Baseball Twist & Shout. Grand slam music and movement activities at the Glenwood Branch that are sure to hit a home run! Ages 2-5 with adult; 30 min.  Register online or by calling 410.313.5579. Offered again at 7:00 p.m.;  register online or by calling 410.313.5579. Offered again 5/21 at 10:30 a.m.;  register online or by calling 410.313.5579. Offered one more time on 5/21 at 11:30 a.m.;  register online or by calling 410.313.5579

May 20, 6:30 p.m. Good Decision Making: A Lifelong Skill for All of Us. Two-part series at the Miller Branch; register for each session separately. Our quality of life depends on decisions we make. Learning how to make good decisions is fundamental to our physical, psychological, professional, financial, and spiritual well-being. Dr. Gopal Dorai–author, economist, financial consultant, and Professor Emeritus at William Paterson University, New Jersey–explores the basic principles governing decision-making techniques. Part 2 will be presented May 21, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Register online or by calling 410.313.1950.

May 20, 7-8:30 p.m. Common Gastrointestinal Conditions. Learn about common gastrointestinal issues, screening recommendations, and treatment approaches to conditions that can be a sign of something more serious. Presented by gastroenterologist Preston Kim, M.D. Free. HCGH Wellness Center, 10710 Charter Drive, Columbia. Click on the link to register, or call 410 740-7601 for more information.

May 20, 7:00 p.m. What’s in Season? Eating seasonally and locally can benefit you and our community. John Dove of Love Dove Farms and Chef Paul Dongarra of Dionysus Kitchen join forces at the Miller Branch to teach you about making delicious, seasonally fresh meals.  Register online or by calling 410.313.1950.

May 21, 10;15 & 11:30 a.m. Baby Sign & Play. Learn basic signs in American Sign Language at the Central Branch. Ages 6-23 months with adult; 30 min. Six-week series. Ticket s available at Children’s Desk 15-30 minutes before class.

May 21, 10:15 & 11:30 a.m. The World Around Me: Me And My Family. A class at the East Columbia Branch exploring simple social studies concepts inspired by children’s literature. Focus on different family members each week through stories and crafts. Multi-week series. Ages 3-5; 45 min. Tickets available at Children’s Desk 15-30 minutes before class.

May 21, 4:30 & 7:00 p.m. Bike Safety. Celebrate American Bike Month at the Miller Branch by learning about bike safety with staff from Race Pace Bicycles. Ages 6 & up; 45 min. A Well & Wise event. Tickets available at Children’s Desk 15-30 minutes before class.

May 21, 6:30 p.m. Good Decision Making: A Lifelong Skill for All of Us. Two-part series at the Miller Branch; register for each session separately. Different stages in the life cycle require appropriate, age-specific decisions. While it is impossible to avoid all mistakes, careful planning can minimize regrets and losses. Dr. Dorai explores strategies to achieve the best possible outcomes. Register online or by calling 410.313.1950.

May 21, 7-8:30 p.m. Rewiring Your Neural Pathways of Emotion. Did you know that emotions affect our health, outlook, and well-being?  Participants will examine their own current emotional response patterns and learn how to use the tools of imagery, visualization, and meditation to promote positive change and optimal ways of being. HCGH Wellness Center, 10710 Charter Drive, Columbia. Click on the link to register, or call 410 740-7601 for more information.

May 22, 2:00 p.m. Just for Me. A class at the Miller Branch for children ages 3-5 who are ready for an independent class that includes creative expression, listening comprehension, and early reading skills. 30 min. Tickets available at Children’s Desk 15-30 minutes before class.

May 22, 7:00 p.m. Attracting Butterflies to Your Garden. Pat Greenwald comes to the Miller Branch to reveal which plants and physical environment best attract nature’s loveliest insects to your backyard. University of Maryland Extension – Howard County Master Gardeners. Register online or by calling 410.313.1950.

May 22, 7:00 p.m. Are You Covered? Sue Rogan, Director of Financial Education at Maryland CASH Campaign, presents an interactive seminar at the Savage Branch on homeowners, car, and other types of property insurance. Determine if you are properly insured. In partnership with Howard County Financial Education Alliance and Maryland CASH Campaign. A “Your Money” event. Register online or by calling 410.880.5980.

May 23, 4:30 p.m. Enchanted Garden Club. Discover the joys of gardening at the Miller Branch. Learn gardening basics, grow flowers and vegetables from seeds, and help plan and maintain beds in our Enchanted Garden. Ages 9-11; 90 min. Registration and signed release form required.Click here for the May 23 Let’s Plant a Pizza Garden release form. Register online or by calling 410.313.1950.

May 23, 6:00 p.m. Engineering Club. Tinker with springs, pulleys, Lego® bricks, and duct tape while creating rockets, roller coasters, and other gadgets in a team environment at the East Columbia Branch. Ages 11-17. Register online or by calling 410.313.7700.

May 23, 7-8:30 p.m.  Living with Breast Cancer. This group is designed to meet the needs of breast cancer patients with a Stage IV diagnosis. This safe, welcoming group provides encouragement, support and education and meets on the 4^th Thursday of each month. FREE. HCGH Claudia Mayer Cancer Resource Center. Call 410 964-9100 x5 for more information and to register.

May 23, 7:00-9:00 p.m. Smoke-Free Lungs. Want to give up smoking but don’t know where to begin? Learn tips for quitting your tobacco habit and mastering long-term success. This program provides support and education for those wanting to quit as well as support for those who have already quit. Choose to attend one or all of the sessions. HCGH Wellness Center, 10710 Charter Drive, Columbia. Click on the link to register, or call 410 740-7601 for more information.

May 25, 10-11:30. Together We Thrive. Patient support group offered for men and women diagnosed with cancer, where participants can share, explore, and be encouraged in a safe environment. This group meets the 4^th Saturday of each month. FREE. HCGH Claudia Mayer Cancer Resource Center.  Call 410 740-5858 for more information and to register.

May 31, Relay for Life. Want to have some fun while doing something meaningful for the Howard County community. Join the HCGH Healing Angels on May 31 for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. This fun filled event will be held at Long Reach High School at 6:30 p.m. and will be complete with entertainment, food, walking and hope. This event gives our community an opportunity to celebrate cancer survivors, remember those who have lost those who have lost their lives to cancer and fight back against this disease.  Would you like a chance at a winning a new car? We are selling raffle tickets for $5 for a chance to win a new Mazda6. Call Maia Alloy at 410. 740-7601 for more information on the relay and the raffle tickets.

Dear Well & Wise,

You’ve tried to sell us on the health benefits of gardening and poetry and even love stories, but what’s with all the math and science classes in your Friday’s events listings?

Sincerely,

Skeptical Reader

Dear SR (who is in no way imaginary),

One lesson many of us have learned from working on the blog is that there are a surprising number of things that can benefit your health if done right (the flipside, of course, being that even things that are supposed to be healthy, like exercise and sunshine, can hurt you if done wrong). But it is almost as if humans, at our basic core, are meant to engage in activities that are ultimately beneficial: little slakes thirst better than water; as kids we like to run and be active; most people do crave companionship and time spent in nature, etc.

That’s not to say many people are chomping at the bit to solve quadratic equations or bust out some quantum physics theories. Although, we have seen an increase in the interest in S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), especially since the White House’s call to Educate to Innovate, through everything from Howard County Public School System’s increased focus on it to events such as the STEMtech Conference. And, of course, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention HiTech, HCLS’ STEM Digital Media Lab for teens and classes.

So yes, this new focus on S.T.E.M. is good for us as a nation, but what about as individuals. Well, we know that doctors and nurses depend very strongly on math and science for their jobs, which benefits us, and that innovations in S.T.E.M. have lead to everything from new medicines, to ergonomically designed tools and furniture, to robots that can do some of our more dangerous jobs for us, and many more life-saving and life-enhancing contributions. BUT that’s not all. There is evidence of  links between good mental health and academic excellence (of which math and science play an important part). And many feel that studying math and science can improve critical/analytical-thinking skills and can also improve confidence, literacy, and overall levels of achievement. So S.T.E.M. studies are good for us; that’s our story, and we’re sticking with it.

Sincerely,

Well & Wise

  hocoblogs@@@

May 11, 11:00 a.m. Seeds to Sunflowers. Sunflowers add beauty to our garden and provide food for wildlife. Listen to stories, learn interesting sunflower facts, and help plant a sunflower patch in our Enchanted Garden at the Miller Branch. Take home sunflower seeds to plant at home and return in the fall for a sunflower show and tell! Ages 7-9; 45 min. Registration and signed release form required.Click here for the release form.  Register online or by calling 410.313.1950

May 11, 3:00 p.m. Calling All Volunteers. Volunteering is good for you. Make reading fun for kids and earn service learning hours. Volunteers assist HCLS instructors with the summer reading club and other tasks. To register for this orientation session at the Elkridge Branch, submit a volunteer application to the teen instructor at the branch where you would like to volunteer. Accepted applicants will be contacted to confirm registration. Ages 13-17. Offered again 5/13 at 7:00 p.m. at the Elkridge and Central Branches.Register by calling 410.313.5088, or 410.313.7800.

May 13, 7-8:30 p.m. Healthy Weight, Healthy You, Part 2 –Kitchen Wisdom. They say that variety is the spice of life! In part two of our Healthy Weight, Healthy You series, sample foods and learn how to spice up healthy meals with herbs and spices for a variety of taste. Free. Register for one or both parts. HCGH Wellness Center, 10710 Charter Drive, Columbia. Click on the link to register, or call 410 740-7601 for more information.

May 13, 10:15 & 11:15 a.m. Twist and Shout. Music and movement for little ones with an adultat the Elkridge Branch. 30 min. Ages infant-5. No registration required.

May 13, 12:30-3:00 p.m. Blood Pressure Screening. Free, walk-in blood pressure screening and monitoring at the Savage Branch offered by Howard County General Hospital. 2nd Mondays. A Well & Wise event. No registration required.

May 13, 6:30 p.m. Invitation to the Ballet. Students of Misako Ballet perform classical ballet and contemporary dances at the Central Branch. Children from the audience may learn a quick piece and perform it. Register online or by calling 410.313.7880.

May 13, 7:00 p.m. Day Trippin’. Do a little armchair traveling at the Glenwood Branch and learn about public gardens & natural spaces an easy drive from Howard County. Presented by Master Gardeners. Register online or by calling 410.313.5577.

May 16-17, 4:00-9:00 p.m. Preakness® Celebration Hot Air Balloon Festival. Come to an exciting, family-friendly celebration with enchanting balloon glows, tethered rides and balloon flights, walk-thru balloons, arts and crafts and great local food. Located at the Turf Valley Resort and Conference Center. For more information- click on the link!

May 16, 6:00 p.m. Engineering Club. Tinker with springs, pulleys, Lego® bricks, and duct tape while creating rockets, roller coasters, and other gadgets in a team environment at the East Columbia Branch. Ages 11-17. Register online or by calling 410.313.7700

May 16, 7:00 p.m. Ready, Set, Grow! Through hands-on activities at the Savage Branch learn to plant your own garden, either in your backyard or in a container. Then make a craft. Ages 6 & up; 45 – 60 min. Register online or by calling 410.880.5978.

May 17, 2:00 p.m. Meet Authors with Girl Power. Come to the Central Branch and celebrate the wonder of being a girl and having the freedom to follow your dreams. Meet authors Elisabeth Dahl, Erica S. Perl, Shawn K. Stout, and Elissa Brent Weissman, whose dynamic characters stand up for their beliefs, and learn valuable lessons about growing up. Books available for purchase and signing. Refreshments. Ages 8-12; 60 min. A Meet the Author event. Register online or by calling 410.313.7880.

May 17, 2:00 & 2:45 p.m. Dig: Discovery in Gardening. Join members of the Split Rail Garden Club at the Miller Branch to discover the magic of seeds. Ages 5-7; 30 min. (Ho. Co. schools closed.) Register online or by calling 410.313.1950.

May 17, 3:30 p.m. Be A Mad Scientist. Use everyday household items at the Savage Branch to create slime, flubber, and gunk, and learn the science behind how they are made. Ages 9-13; 90 min. No registration required.

May 17 or May 22. Living With Diabetes.  Have you recently been diagnosed with diabetes or have you been living with diabetes and would like to improve your health? Our diabetes specialists will teach you how to change your habits, give you practical, attainable solutions for staying healthy and design a diabetes management plan to fit your lifestyle. Living with Diabetes is a two-day, interactive, group course taught by an endocrinologist, diabetes nurse educator, dietitian, psychologist, podiatrist, and exercise specialist. Choose a day program or a condensed evening program. Day classes are held Friday and the following Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Evening classes are held Wednesday and Thursday from 6:00 -9:00 p.m. Most insurance plans cover all or part of this program.  The Bolduc Family Outpatient Center at Howard County General Hospital. For more information or to register, please call 443-718-3000

May 18, 10:30 a.m. Caregiver’s Support Group. Meets on the third Saturday of each month at 10:30 a.m.- noon or the first Tuesday of each month at 3:30 p.m. FREE. Registration is required.  Call the Claudia Mayer Cancer Resource Center at 410 740-5858 for more information.

May 18. 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Springing Up Healthy. Howard County General Hospital (HCGH) hosts a free family health event at The Mall in Columbia, featuring community experts, topics and activities to help kids stay healthy, active and safe. Sample a selection of healthy food from Panera Bread and Williams-Sonoma. Enter drawings for an iPad courtesy of HCGH, a bicycle and helmet from Sears and a gift certificate from SA Elite.

May 20, 10:30- 12:00 p.m. HCGH Benefit Golf Classic The premiere golf fundraising event in Howard County. Winner of hole-in-one challenge will win a car from title sponsor, Apple Ford Lincoln. 10:30 a.m. – registration/putting contest. 12:00 p.m. – tee off at the Turf Valley Resort and Conference Center

May 20, 7-8:30 p.m. Common Gastrointestinal Conditions. Learn about common gastrointestinal issues, screening recommendations, and treatment approaches to conditions that can be a sign of something more serious. Presented by gastroenterologist Preston Kim, M.D. Free. HCGH Wellness Center, 10710 Charter Drive, Columbia. Click on the link to register, or call 410 740-7601 for more information.

April/May.  Cherrybration Days. The Blossoms of Hope project is helping to bring hope to individuals and families within our community who are coping with cancer through its contributions to Howard County General Hospital’s CLAUDIA MAYER CANCER RESOURCE CENTER. A variety of CHERRYBRATION DAYS events are held during the trees beautiful blossoming season each April. Check out the calendar of April events at www.blossomsofhope.org

May 4, 11:00 a.m. Chemists Celebrate Earth Day: Water. Join a chemist from the Army Research Laboratory and the American Chemical Society for hands-on experiments and a celebration of Earth Day at the Miller Branch. Ages 7 & up (7-8 year olds must be accompanied by an adult); 60 min. Register online or by calling 410.313.1950. Offered agan at 1:00 p.m.; register online or by calling 410.313.1950.

May 4, 2:00 p.m. Math Circle. Are you good at math? Do you love numbers? Join the HCLS Math Circle at the East Columbia Branch to learn about patterns and intricacies in the world of mathematics. Use logic and problem solving skills to solve brain teasing problems. Ages 11-14. Register online or by calling 410.313.7700.

May 6, 10:15 a.m. Just For Me. Class at the Savage Branch for children ages 3-5 who are ready for an independent class that includes creative expression, listening comprehension, and early reading skills. 30 min. No registration required. Offered again on 5/8 at 2:00 p.m. at the Miller Branch. Also offered 5/10 at the Central Branch at 2:30 p.m.

May 6, 10:15 & 11:15 a.m. Twist and Shout. Music and movement at the Elkridge Branch for little ones with an adult. 30 min. Ages infant-5. No registration required.

May 6, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Blood Pressure Screening. Free, walk-in blood pressure screening and monitoring at the Glenwood Branch offered by Howard County General Hospital. 1st & 3rd Mondays. A Well & Wise event. No registration required.

May 6, 7:00 p.m. Edible Bouquets for Mother’s Day. Turn the bounty of spring into a beautiful and unusual bouquet at the Miller Branch. Learn what is blooming in the Enchanted Garden, snip some veggies and herbs, and create a lovely gift to enjoy at home. Ages 9 & up; 60 min. Registration and signed release form required. Click here  for the release form. Register online or by calling 410.313.1950.

May 6, 7-8:30 p.m. Healthy Weight, Healthy You, Part 1 – Looking to Lose Weight? In part one of our Healthy Weight, Healthy You series, our certified nutritionist and registered dietitian will discuss physiology and health challenges that affect your weight. Learn to plan meals that taste great, provide balance in your diet, and promote health. FREE. HCGH Wellness Center, 10710 Charter Drive, Columbia. Click on the link to register, or call 410 740-7601 for more information.

May 7, 10:15 & 11:30 a.m. Baby Sign & Play. Learn basic signs in American Sign Language at the Central Branch. Ages 6-23 months with adult; 30 min. Six-week series. Tickets available at Children’s Desk 15-30 minutes before class.

May 7, 10:15 & 11:30 a.m. The World Around Me: Me And My Family. A class at the East Columbia Branch exploring simple social studies concepts inspired by children’s literature. Focus on different family members each week through stories and crafts. Multi-week series. Ages 3-5; 45 min. Ticket available at Children’s Desk 15-30 minutes before class.

May 7, 3:30 p.m. Caregiver’s Support Group. Meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 3:30 p.m. or the third Saturday of each month at 10:30 a.m.- noon. FREE. Registration is required.  Call the Claudia Mayer Cancer Resource Center at 410 740-5858 for more information.

May 7, 7:00 p.m. Calling All Volunteers. Voluntering is good for you, so come to the Elkridge Branch to help make reading fun for kids and earn service learning hours. Volunteers assist HCLS instructors with the summer reading club and other tasks. To register for this orientation session, submit a volunteer application to the teen instructor at the branch where you would like to volunteer. Accepted applicants will be contacted to confirm registration. Ages 13-17. Register by calling 410.313.5088.

May 7, 7:00 p.m. Guided Meditation. Presented by Star Ferguson-Gooden, M.Ac., L.Ac. At the Miller Branch. Enjoy a guided mindfulness meditation designed to impart a feeling of peacefulness and connection. In addition to her Master’s degree in Acupuncture, Star Ferguson-Gooden holds a Professional Certificate in Energetic Healing and is faculty at Tai Sophia Institute. She and her husband co-own their practice, Sage Center for Wellness, in historic Ellicott City. A Well & Wise event. In the Enchanted Garden. Register online or by calling 410.313.1950.

May 8, 6:30 p.m. Welcome to Howard County. Come to the Central Branch to discover a wide array of social services and engaging activities for county residents. Presented by Howard County Tourism. Register online or by calling 410.313.7800.

May 9, 4:30 p.m. Enchanted Garden Club. Discover the joys of gardening at the Miller Branch. Learn gardening basics, grow flowers and vegetables from seeds, and help plan and maintain beds in our Enchanted Garden. Ages 9-11; 90 min. Registration and signed release form required. Register for each session separately. Click here for the May 9 Creative Container Gardens release form. Register online or by calling 410.313.1950.

May 9, 7:00 -9:00 p.m. Pre-diabetes. What is Pre-Diabetes and what can you do about it? This program will answer your questions. Our certified diabetes educator and registered dietitian will teach you how to make changes to prevent or delay an actual diabetes diagnosis. $15. HCGH Wellness Center, 10710 Charter Drive, Columbia. Click on the link to register, or call 410 740-7601 for more information.

May 9, 7:00 p.m. Hands-Only CPR. Brad Tanner, from Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services, teaches the basics of adult CPR and the warning signs for sudden cardiac arrest at the Elkridge Branch Branch. He also discusses the functions of an automated external defibrillator (AED). Participants are required to practice the Hands-Only CPR method on the provided mannequins as they are assisted by the instructor. This course is intended for all ages and recommended for individuals who wish to learn the basics of CPR. Registration required. A Well & Wise event. Note: Hands-Only CPR is a basic course and is designed to be performed without a CPR card. As a result, a CPR card is not issued upon course completion. Register online or by calling 410.313.5088.

May 9, 7:30 p.m. Get Fit with the Boot Camp Girl. Certified personal trainer and yoga instructor Stephanie Dignan comes the the Glenwood Branch to teach how to achieve fitness goals with a series of classes. Come to one or all three. An exercise release form is required for the April session. Please bring a mat or towel. A Well & Wise event. Click here for the exercise release form for adults 18 and over. Click here for the exercise release from for children under 18. Register online or by calling 410.313.5577.

May 10, 2-6:00 p.m. HCGH Farmers’ Market – Opening Day. Join us for the Opening Day of the HCGH Farmers Market. Keep your family healthy with fresh fruits, vegetables, bread, cheese, eggs, meat and other farm products grown and produced on local Howard County Farms. New vendors this year include Misty Meadows Milk and a jewelry vendor once a month. Free HCGH grocery tote bags to first 50 customers and seasonal recipes. Market is at the rear of Visitor Lot C at HCGH.

May 12, 8:00 a.m. Hills of Milltown 5K Challenge.  Scenic, challenging, historic race route with cash and gift certificate prizes totally more than $500. Proceeds to benefit Howard County General Hospital’s Claudia Mayer Cancer Resource Center. Ellicott City – Lot F off of Ellicott Mills Drive.  The entry Fee of $35 includes a race t-shirt.

May 13, 7-8:30 p.m. Healthy Weight, Healthy You, Part 2 –Kitchen Wisdom. They say that variety is the spice of life! In part two of our Healthy Weight, Healthy You series, sample foods and learn how to spice up healthy meals with herbs and spices for a variety of taste. Free. Register for one or both parts. HCGH Wellness Center, 10710 Charter Drive, Columbia. Click on the link to register, or call 410 740-7601 for more information.

May 14 or May 16. Skin Cancer Screening. Worried about a funny looking mole? Our HCGH dermatologist will examine your area of concern. (Due to time limitations, a full-body exam will not be performed.) Appointment are slots available between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Free. HCGH Wellness Center, 10710 Charter Drive, Columbia. Click on the link to register, or call 410 740-7601 for more information.

April/May.  Cherrybration Days.  The Blossoms of Hope project is helping to bring hope to individuals and families within our community who are coping with cancer through its contributions to Howard County General Hospital’s CLAUDIA MAYER CANCER RESOURCE CENTER. A variety of CHERRYBRATION DAYS events are held during the trees beautiful blossoming season each April. Check out the calendar of April events at www.blossomsofhope.org

April  27, 10-11:30. Together We Thrive. Patient support group offered for men and women diagnosed with cancer, where participants can share, explore, and be encouraged in a safe environment. This group meets the 4^th Saturday of each month. FREE. HCGH Claudia Mayer Cancer Resource Center.  Call 410 740-5858 for more information and to register.

April 27, 2:00 a.m. The Lorax’s Arbor Day. Come to the Elkridge Branch to listen to Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax and learn about the importance of trees. Ages 5 & up; 45 min. Register online or by calling 410.313.5085.

 April 29, 10:15 a.m. Twist and Shout: Dance Party! Music and movement at the Miller Branch for little ones with an adult. 30 min. Ages 2-3. Dance Party! Register online or by calling 410.313.1950. Offered again at 11:30 a.m.; register online or by calling 410.313.1950.

April 29, 10:15 a.m. Just For Me. Class at the Savage Branch for children ages 3-5 who are ready for an independent class that includes creative expression, listening comprehension, and early reading skills. 30 min. No registration required. Also offered on 4/30 at 10:30 a.m. at the Glenwood Branch; register online or by calling 410.313.5579. Also offered 5/3 at 2:30 p.m. at the Central Branch; tickets available at the Children’s Desk 15-30 minutes before class.

April 29, 10:15 & 11:15 a.m. Twist and Shout. Music and movement at the Elkridge Branch for little ones with an adult. 30 min. Ages infant-5. No registration required.

April 29, 4:30 a.m. Books in the Garden. Learn what is happening in the Enchanted Garden at the Miller Branch through stories and activities, then visit the garden for more discoveries. Multi-week series. Ages 5-8; 45 min. Registration and signed release form required. Click here for the release form. Register online or by calling 410.313.1950.

April 30, 10:15 & 11:30 a.m. Baby Sign & Play. Learn basic signs in American Sign Language at the Central Branch. Ages 6-23 months with adult; 30 min. Six-week series. Ticket s available at Children’s Desk 15-30 minutes before class.

May 6, 7-8:30 p.m. Healthy Weight, Healthy You, Part 1 – Looking to Lose Weight? In part one of our Healthy Weight, Healthy You series, our certified nutritionist and registered dietitian will discuss physiology and health challenges that affect your weight. Learn to plan meals that taste great, provide balance in your diet, and promote health. FREE. HCGH Wellness Center, 10710 Charter Drive, Columbia. Click on the link to register, or call 410 740-7601 for more information.

May 2, 2:00 p.m. Twist and Shout: Beach Party. Music and movement at the Savage Branch for little ones with an adult. 30 min. Ages 2-5. Beach Party! Register online or by calling 410.880.5978.

May 2, 7:00 p.m. Day Trippin’. Do a little armchair traveling at the Glenwood Branch and learn about public gardens and natural spaces an easy drive from Howard County. Presented by Linda Decker and Sherry Conklin. University of Maryland Extension – Howard County Master Gardeners. Register online or by calling 410.313.5577.

May 2, 7:00 p.m. Family Zumba. Join Columbia Association fitness instructors T THE Central Branch for a family Zumba© class. This interactive and fun dance workout uses Latin and international music. Please wear athletic shoes. Ages 5 & up with adult; 45-60 min. A Well & Wise event. Registration and signed release form required. Click here for the release form for children under 18. Click here for the release form for adults 18 and older. Register online or by calling 410.313.7880.

May 2, 7:00 p.m. Hands-Only CPR. Come the the East Columbia Branch where Brad Tanner, from Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services, teaches the basics of adult CPR and the warning signs for sudden cardiac arrest. He also discusses the functions of an automated external defibrillator (AED). Participants are required to practice the Hands-Only CPR method on the provided mannequins as they are assisted by the instructor. This course is intended for all ages and recommended for individuals who wish to learn the basics of CPR. Registration required. A Well & Wise event. Note: Hands-Only CPR is a basic course and is designed to be performed without a CPR card. As a result, a CPR card is not issued upon course completion. Register online or by calling 410.313.7700.

May 10, 2-6:00 p.m. HCGH Farmers’ Market – Opening Day. Join us for the Opening Day of the HCGH Farmers Market. Keep your family healthy with fresh fruits, vegetables, bread, cheese, eggs, meat and other farm products grown and produced on local Howard County Farms. New vendors this year include Misty Meadows Milk and a jewelry vendor once a month. Free HCGH grocery tote bags to first 50 customers and seasonal recipes. Market is at the rear of Visitor Lot C at HCGH.

May 9, 7:00 -9:00 p.m. Pre-diabetes. What is Pre-Diabetes and what can you do about it? This program will answer your questions. Our certified diabetes educator and registered dietitian will teach you how to make changes to prevent or delay an actual diabetes diagnosis. $15. HCGH Wellness Center, 10710 Charter Drive, Columbia. Click on the link to register, or call 410 740-7601 for more information.

May 12, 8:00 a.m. Hills of Milltown 5K Challenge.  Scenic, challenging, historic race route with cash and gift certificate prizes totally more than $500. Proceeds to benefit Howard County General Hospital’s Claudia Mayer Cancer Resource Center. Ellicott City – Lot F off of Ellicott Mills Drive.  The entry Fee of $35 includes a race t-shirt.

May 13, 7-8:30 p.m. Healthy Weight, Healthy You, Part 2- Kitchen Wisdom. They say that variety is the spice of life! In part two of our Healthy Weight, Healthy You series, sample foods and learn how to spice up healthy meals with herbs and spices for a variety of taste. Free. Register for one or both parts. HCGH Wellness Center, 10710 Charter Drive, Columbia. Click on the link to register, or call 410 740-7601 for more information.

May 14 or May 16. Skin Cancer Screening.  Worried about a funny looking mole? Our HCGH dermatologist will examine your area of concern. (Due to time limitations, a full-body exam will not be performed.) Appointment are slots available between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Free. HCGH Wellness Center, 10710 Charter Drive, Columbia. Click on the link to register, or call 410 740-7601 for more information.

Check out these local classes to make you Well & Wise.  

April.  Cherrybration Days- The Blossoms of Hope project is helping to bring hope to individuals and families within our community who are coping with cancer through its contributions to Howard County General Hospital’s CLAUDIA MAYER CANCER RESOURCE CENTER. A variety of CHERRYBRATION DAYS events are held during the trees beautiful blossoming season each April. Check out the calendar of April events at www.blossomsofhope.org

April 19. Living With Diabetes.  Have you recently been diagnosed with diabetes or have you been living with diabetes and would like to improve your health? Our diabetes specialists will teach you how to change your habits, give you practical, attainable solutions for staying healthy and design a diabetes management plan to fit your lifestyle. Living with Diabetes is a two-day, interactive, group course taught by an endocrinologist, diabetes nurse educator, dietitian, psychologist, podiatrist, and exercise specialist. Choose a day program or a condensed evening program. Day classes are held Friday and the following Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Evening classes are held Wednesday and Thursday from 6:00 -9:00 p.m. Most insurance plans cover all or part of this program.  The Bolduc Family Outpatient Center at Howard County General Hospital. For more information or to register, please call 443-718-3000

April 20, 10:00 a.m. Infectious Disease and Technology. Come to the Savage Branch to learn about how infectious diseases are spread and how disease detectives work to find and stop their spread using medical technology and nanotechnology. Ages 11-18. HiTech is supported in part by a grant from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation and IMLS. Visit hclibrary.org/hitech_events. Register online or by calling 410.880.5980. Offered again on 4/24 at 12:30 p.m.

April 20, 10:30 p.m. Chemists Celebrate Earth Day: Water. Join a chemist from the Army Research Laboratory and the American Chemical Society for hands-on experiments and a celebration of Earth Day at the Glenwood Branch. Ages 7 & up (7-8 year olds must be accompanied by an adult); 60 min. Register online or by calling 410.313.5579. Offered again at the East Columbia Branch at 1:00 p.m.; register online or by calling 410.313.7730. Also offered at 3:00 p.m. At the Elkridge Branch; register online or by calling 410.313.5085.

April 20, 2:00 p.m. Math Circle. Are you good at math? Do you love numbers? Join the HCLS Math Circle at the East Columbia Branch to learn about patterns and intricacies in the world of mathematics. Use logic and problem solving skills to solve brain teasing problems. Ages 11-14. Register online or by calling 410.313.7700.

April 22, 10:15 a.m. Just For Me. Class at the Savage Branch for children ages 3-5 who are ready for an independent class that includes creative expression, listening comprehension, and early reading skills. 30 min. No registration required. Offered again on 4/23 at 10:30 a.m. at the Glenwood Branch; register online or by calling 410.313.5579. 4/24 at 10:15 & 11:15 a.m. at the East Columbia and Elkridge Branches, and at 2:00 p.m. at the Miller Branch. Also offered 4/26 at the Central Branch at 2:30 p.m.

April 22, 7:00 p.m. The Newest Green is Platinum. Columbia’s Robinson Nature Center boasts the highest green building rating: LEED Platinum. LEED Accredited Professional Jeffrey Williams comes to the Miller Branch to teach about green building attributes and what makes the Center so spectacular. Learn about green roofs, geothermal heat pumps, and sustainable wood. Jeffrey Williams is a LEED-Accredited Professional volunteer at the Robinson Nature Center and a working professional in the sustainability field. In partnership with Robinson Nature Center. Register online or by calling 410.313.1950.

April 22, 7:00 p.m. NASA Science 4 Girls. Join NASA Goddard women scientists at the Elkridge Branch as you celebrate women in science, learn about the universe, and explore the role of science in your life. Participate in some hands-on activities. Ages 9-14; 60 min. Register online or by calling 410.313.5085.

April 23, 10:15 & 11:30 a.m. Baby Sign & Play. Learn basic signs in American Sign Language at the Central Branch. Ages 6-23 months with adult; 30 min. Six-week series. Tickets available at Children’s Desk 15-30 minutes before class.

April 24, 7:00 p.m. Growing Great Tomatoes. Learn how to grow great tomatoes at the Savage Branch. Register online or by calling 410.880.5980.

April 25, 2:00 p.m. Recess! School’s out; spend time with new friends at the Savage Branch exploring games that get your mind and body moving. Use and eat marshmallows too! Ages 7 & up; 60 min. Register online or by calling 410.880.5978.

April 25, 4:30 p.m. Enchanted Garden Club. Discover the joys of gardening at the Miller Branch. Learn gardening basics, grow flowers and vegetables from seeds, and help plan and maintain beds in our Enchanted Garden. Ages 9-11; 90 min. Registration and signed release form required. Register for each session separately. Click here for the April 25 Gardening for You, Me, and the Chesapeake Bay release form. Register online or by calling 410.313.1950.

April 25, 7:00 p.m. Hands-Only CPR. Brad Tanner, from Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services, teaches the basics of adult CPR and the warning signs for sudden cardiac arrest at theMiller Branch. He also discusses the functions of an automated external defibrillator (AED). Participants are required to practice the Hands-Only CPR method on the provided mannequins as they are assisted by the instructor. This course is intended for all ages and recommended for individuals who wish to learn the basics of CPR. Registration required. A Well & Wise event. Note: Hands-Only CPR is a basic course and is designed to be performed without a CPR card. As a result, a CPR card is not issued upon course completion. Register online or by calling 410.313.1950.

April 25, 7-8:30 p.m.  Living with Breast Cancer. This group is designed to meet the needs of breast cancer patients with a Stage IV diagnosis. This safe, welcoming group provides encouragement, support and education and meets on the 4^th Thursday of each month. FREE. HCGH Claudia Mayer Cancer Resource Center. Call 410 964-9100 x5 for more information and to register.

April  27, 10-11:30. Together We Thrive. Patient support group offered for men and women diagnosed with cancer, where participants can share, explore, and be encouraged in a safe environment. This group meets the 4^th Saturday of each month. FREE. HCGH Claudia Mayer Cancer Resource Center.  Call 410 740-5858 for more information and to register.