March 10, 2008

Howard County event draws world-class equestrians, raises funds for HCC scholarships

(Columbia, MD) – Three new members have joined the Columbia Classic Grand Prix Board of Directors to plan an event that raises money for Howard Community College (HCC) scholarships and brings world-class equestrians to Maryland.  The 21st Annual Columbia Classic will be held Saturday, September 20, 2008.

Michael M. Drummond of Harkins Builders is returning for his second year as board chairperson. 

New members of the 2008 Grand Prix board are:

·         Deborah Freeman, Gradeline Construction Company, Inc.

·         Christopher G. Frink, Legg Mason Investment Council

·         Bill Kinloch, The Columbia Bank

Returning board members are:

·         C. Alan Jefferson, Wachovia Bank

·         Michael Nagle, Nagle and Zaller, PC

·         Rachelina Bonacci, Howard County Tourism

·         William N. Chalfant, Jr., PNC Bank

·         Gary Donham, Coca-Cola

·         Greg Florenzo, Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.

·         Robert A. Freedman, Corridor Reznick LLC

·         Abigail Glassberg, CB Richard Ellis

·         Oliver C. Kennedy, Equestrian Sports and Promotions

·         Chris Marasco, Howard Bank

·         Robert F. McAllister, McAllister and Company Insurance, LLC

·         Michael N. Mercurio, Offit Kurman

·         Roger Pedersen, Lakeside Title

·         Paula Rinker, Star Hotels

·         Lex Ruygrok, Cross Country Settlements

·         Eric Stein, Decanter Fine Wines

·         Marilyn Weeks, Howard County Government Inspections and Permits

The HCC campus in Columbia is transformed into a festive arena for the Columbia Classic Grand Prix, where world-class equestrians including Olympic veterans compete on a challenging course of obstacles, jumps, twists and turns.  Special attractions include equestrian demonstrations, a World of the Horse exhibit, pony rides, food court, boutiques, and children’s events.  The Grand Prix is a member of the U.S. Grand Prix League.

Proceeds benefit the HCC Educational Foundation, which provides scholarships for HCC students.  HCC enrolls more than 45% of all Howard County undergraduates attending a Maryland college.