Five Things to Know About Columbia, 8/25

1) The Weather

“Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 3pm. Some of the storms could produce gusty winds and heavy rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 87. South wind between 6 and 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.” - From the National Weather Service. 

2) Event Not To Miss

Firefighter Portrait Unveiling

The Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services will honor its members who have died in the line of duty 6:30 p.m. Monday with a ceremonial portrait unveiling. The event will take place at the James N. Robey Public Safety Training Center, 2200 Scott Wheeler Drive in Marriottsville.

3) Question of the Day

What are common mistakes to avoid on the first day of school? Email me any lessons learned you in Columbia you think others should know—at lisa.rossi@patch.com and I’ll publish your responses in our back-to-school package running Monday.

4) Featured Reader Comment

“Thank you so much for sharing this! I didn't even know that this existed! Unfortunately, I'm one of those people who can't even run a few blocks without giving up. I just emailed two of the volunteers from G.I.R.L., and they assured me that there's a place for me.” Reader Michelle M. on columnist Maureen O’Donnell’s piece on the Howard County Striders' Next Step G.I.R.L. program, which inspires women to run.

5) Headlines You May Have Missed 8/24

Five Robberies in Four Days: Howard County Crime Roundup