From the Desk of CA President Phil Nelson

February marks Black History Month and provides an ideal time for local residents and business owners to reflect on the unique and diverse past of our great community; after all, Columbia was envisioned by founder Jim Rouse as a place where neighbors would live side-by-side regardless of their ethnic, cultural and economic backgrounds.
Today, more than 40 years after its founding, Columbia has been recognized on several occasions as one of the best places to live in the nation - a tribute to the importance of its diverse cultural palette.
This month, the Columbia Association (CA) will announce the winners of the annual Images of Freedom poster contest. More than 20 middle and high school students created unique and inspiring artwork expressing the true meaning of freedom.
On that note, CA, in partnership with Central Maryland Regional Transit and Howard County, is showcasing the five pieces of winning artwork on the sides of Howard County Transit buses throughout the month. The entries also will be on display from Feb. 18 to 28 at the Columbia Art Center at 6100 Foreland Garth.
CA and the 10 villages of Columbia also will honor Black History Month with the fifth annual Roots of Howard County event. Mark your calendar to attend this free celebration, which is open to the public. It will be held on Sunday, Feb. 21, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Historic Oakland Manor at 5430 Vantage Point Road.
During the event, visit the African Art Museum of Maryland, located on the upper level of Historic Oakland Manor, and the Howard County Center of African American Culture in the Rose Price House.
This year's event-theme is "Women of Distinction." From 3 to 4 p.m., there will be free food and entertainment by the Ellington-Adderley Jazz Ensemble. Guest speakers will begin their presentations at 4 p.m. and will feature high-profile women in the community. Among those scheduled to speak are Diane Brown, columnist, Patuxent Publishing Co.; Wylene Burch, director, Howard County Center of African American Culture; Alice Clark, judge, District Court of Maryland; and Dottie Moore, former head, Community Action Council. Malynda Madzel, who has served on various community boards and foundations, will serve as discussion facilitator.
For more information, please call 410-730-4744 or e-mail TownCenter@ColumbiaVillages.org. Feel free to e-mail your thoughts and feedback to me at Phillip.Nelson@ColumbiaAssociation.com.