🍦HoCo Got That AAA Rating!

Good morning, Columbia.

In today’s Columbia Scoop:

Let’s get to it.

— Michelle Sinclair

Federal immigration officials are pressuring Howard County leaders behind closed doors—just weeks after ICE criticized the release of a Honduran man convicted of rape. ICE’s Baltimore field office is now meeting with County Executive Calvin Ball and members of the County Council to push for changes to Howard’s Liberty Act, a 2020 law that limits local cooperation with immigration enforcement.

Looking for a real estate agent who listens, strategizes, and delivers? Meet Mike Sloan of Northrop Realty, a seasoned professional with over 18 years of full-time experience, 1,200+ homes sold, and $500 million+ in sales. Named one of The Wall Street Journal’s Top Agents, Mike’s a competitor who thrives on challenges and relationships. A Howard County native and family man, Mike’s ready to put his expertise to work for you. Reach out to Mike to see how he can help.

A proposed solar project in Woodbine has neighbors fired up. The 4-acre plan on farmland would power 450 homes, but residents worry it sacrifices green space for profit. With solar-friendly laws making approval easier, critics say Howard’s farmland—and local say—is getting edged out by state mandates.

Howard County Police are searching for Alexander Molina Rodriguez, 25, who left the U.S. after allegedly killing snow plow driver Alex Ramirez Garcia in January. The shooting was targeted, and Rodriguez faces murder charges.

Despite looming federal workforce cuts, Howard County maintains its AAA bond rating—one of only 55 U.S. counties to do so. County Exec Calvin Ball says smart fiscal planning and the new ECON Task Force are key to staying resilient, competitive, and future-ready. ($)

Howard County Police shot and killed 23-year-old Micah Booker after he allegedly stabbed his brother with a spear and advanced on officers. The quiet Oakland Mills neighborhood is stunned. The state’s Independent Investigations Division is now handling the case. The victim remains in critical condition.

Human remains were found near the Forest Glen Trail in Patapsco Valley State Park Wednesday afternoon. Maryland Natural Resources Police say foul play is not suspected. Trails reopened Thursday morning after a brief investigation. It’s the park’s first death case this year. ($)

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Tucked on 3+ acres next to Gorman Park, this 8,600 sq ft custom estate is a nature lover’s retreat. With a gourmet kitchen, home theater, saltwater pool, koi pond, and wooded views—plus 7 bedrooms—it’s luxury living wrapped in peace, privacy, and outdoor charm.

Founded by two proud Columbia residents, Remedy Columbia is your neighborhood dispensary offering premium cannabis products and a personalized shopping experience. Whether you're seeking relief, relaxation, or inspiration, our curated selection and knowledgeable team are here to help. At Remedy, we believe in supporting our community, celebrating local culture, and making every visit feel like coming home. Visit Remedy Columbia—Where Healing Meets Home.

This week’s featured event. . . Seussical at Silhouette Stages through June 29th

🎭 Seussical opened June 14 at Silhouette Stages in Wilde Lake! This vibrant, family-friendly musical brings Dr. Seuss’s world to life. Tickets start at $15. The show runs weekends through June 29—don’t miss the magic!.

Dinner with Bluey @ Uno Pizzeria Tuesday, 6-17
Bluey’s coming to dinner! 🐾 Join the fun on June 17 from 5–8 PM at UNO Pizzeria in Long Gate Shopping Center. Great food, adorable photo ops—reservations recommended, call to reserve.

Summer Fit Series 2025 at Color Burst Park
💪 Get fit and fierce every Tuesday at Color Burst Park! YogaSix leads Y6 Power—a high-energy Vinyasa class blending strength, flexibility, and focus. Class runs 6:30–7:30 PM. Feel the power! Reserve here.

Food Truck Wednesday’s at Merriweather Plaza
🌮🌭 On Wednesday, June 18, grab lunch at Merriweather Row Plaza from 11 AM–2 PM! DMV Taqueria and Dogs on the Curb roll in for food truck fun under the newly refreshed plaza sculpture.

Nothing in this section is sponsored. They're just the things you need to know. I'll always let you know when something's sponsored.

After 38 years in the U.S., Susana Rodriguez finally learned to read—starting with the ABCs. Now she texts her daughters with ease, thanks to Howard County Library’s Project Literacy program. Last week, she joined 50 others celebrating high school diplomas, citizenship, and life-changing progress. ($)

Howard County’s beloved Battle of the Books is going 21+ this fall! For the first time, adults can compete in the literary showdown, with teams reading six secret titles and facing off in October. Expect trivia, costumes, and bragging rights—plus all proceeds support library programs. Let the book battles begin! ($)

Five Howard County seniors just made the national honor roll of honor rolls—named semifinalists in the prestigious U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. These standout students were recognized for academic excellence, leadership, and community impact. Overall, a total of 11 Maryland public and private school students are among the 621 semifinalists nationwide this year. Final selections come later this summer. Stay tuned, and congrats to our local stars! 🌟

Howard County just broke ground on its first-ever Veterans and Military Families Monument at Bailey Park. With symbolic stars, a reflecting pool, and powerful words, the site will honor 20,000 local veterans and generations to come.

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73 🌡️ 63 | 🌨️ | 90% | 💨 W-SW 5-16 mph

81 🌡️ 67 | 🌨️ | 70% | 💨 W-SW 5-16 mph

89 🌡️ 71 | 🌨️ | 60% | 💨 E-NE 4-17 mph

Collective Encore | Liza and Frank 730pm
Cured 1821 | Eric Harper 6pm

Collective Encore | John Nemeth 730pm
Cured 1821 | Kevin Howard 6pm
Reckless Shepherd | Michael McHenry Tribe Band 530pm
Walkers | Timmy Morrison 6pm

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