From the Desk of CA President Maggie Brown

Every year, I look forward to the joys of summer. That's when I find time to cool off in one of our outdoor pools, enjoy a concert by the lake and watch the children run around the neighborhood.
The signs of summer will be apparent in Columbia when Columbia Association's (CA) 23 outdoor pools open for the season on Saturday, May 24, to kick off one of the busiest times of year here at CA.
Our lifeguards are friendly and well-trained, and new lifeguards are equipped with at least 48 hours of training in rescue techniques, CPR and first aid - in addition to the 12 to 15 hours of recertification training that all returning lifeguards receive.
I encourage parents to please help our lifeguards ensure the safety of kids during pool visits by providing supervision at all times. Also, be aware that children between the ages of 8 and 12 must pass a water safety test before being admitted into the pool alone.
Find out more about becoming a member and also take a look at the outdoor pools schedule by logging on to www.columbiapools.org or by contacting our Membership Service Center at 410-730-1801.
You know summer's coming when it's time for Lakefront Wednesdays, which will be returning every week at Lakefront Plaza on Lake Kittamaqundi. Starting May 14 and running through July 2, these free concerts will be held on Wednesdays from noon until 2 p.m. CA will be providing free beverages for the first time this year during this annual event.
I'm also excited to share that CA is investing in watershed planning as part of an effort to beautify Columbia's streams and lakes, improve the environment for wildlife and plant life and save funds.
The CA Board of Directors has approved the creation of a resident advisory committee to participate in the process, and the Watershed Advisory Committee has met twice since. The committee is tasked with helping create and implement a CA watershed policy, and enhance public awareness and education.
The committee is composed of 11 members: one from each village and one member chosen by CA. The next meeting is on Thursday, May 8, at 7 p.m. at Historic Oakland Manor, which is located at 5430 Vantage Point Road. Persons interested should call 410-715-3100 for more information or log onto www.CAmonthly.org.
I would also like to thank the many Columbia residents who voted on April 26. It was great to see so many residents involved in the process and welcome the new and returning board members to the Columbia Council.
As always, feel free to e-mail your thoughts and feedback to me at Maggie.Brown@ColumbiaAssociation.com.