'Green' designs highlight the work of local architect

It's not easy being green. Well, yes it is. Especially if you are local architect Andre Fontaine whose design work in recent years has earned him environmental kudos along with an armload of design awards and recognition.

Seems hard to believe that it was 1986 when Fontaine moved to Glenelg. To me it feels like just yesterday when word got out about his incredible studio. The architect converted a 19th century vernacular Greek Revival farm building, (which he had saved from the wrecking ball) dismantled the building and re-erected it on the property which remains today as his rural retreat of home, office and studio. Such a lofty project came as no surprise to those who know him.

Fontaine has always been on the forefront of innovative design. Current projects include a broad range of styles from a yard shed, to an addition to an historic home, to a waterfront home in St. Michael's, Maryland. Fontaine's signature style is attached to each. He has collected dozens of awards for his work in green architecture and in sustainable design.

Since the founding of his firm in 1980, Fontaine has specialized in residential projects, additions and alterations, new home construction and in particular projects which have universal design or disability requirements. Fontaine is a member of the Howard County Disabilities Commission Access Committee.

Fontaine's universal designs are hailed, as is his expertise in the special requirements for universal and handicap design. So too, his "green" design, including one of the first residential green roof projects in Maryland. His blend of a fine aesthetic with the practical, are part of what has led to the dozens of feature stories in the national media over the past few years.

His work has been featured in magazines and journals and also on Home and Garden Television. Just a troll through his website offers a glimpse of the scope of his work. Stunning work by our own hometown Andre Fontaine.

Congratulations on 26 years here. If you enjoy checking out great designs, visit his website at http://www.agfontaine-architect.com. Better yet, if you would like to chat with Andre about design call him at 410-531-3925 or e-mail him at ogeearch@aol.com.

According to St. Andrew's Episcopal Church "reporter in chief" Lynne Quinn, "The St. Andrew's monthly feast is back and better than ever." After a holiday hiatus, the monthly dinner with charitable causes at its core but delicious and savory food at its heart, is set for Jan. 26, 6- 8 p.m.

Each month the dinner is prepared by the chefs at Inwood Center's "Smokin' Hot." Folks come from far and from near to enjoy a family dinner for only $9 per person or $30 per family. Dinner this month is the classic Italian Night Feast. Pasta, salad, breads, desserts and great neighborly conversation. Proceeds from this dinner will go to the St. Andrew's Youth Program.

The church hall is at 2892 Route 97, in Glenwood, between Union Chapel Road and the Glenwood Post Office.

Questions? Call Lynne at 410-442-5445.

Just a reminder. I heard from Janet Sowers at the St. James United Methodist Church in West Friendship. The annual blood drive, sponsored by, and held at St. James, will take place Jan. 26 from 2 to 8 p.m.

Donors are encouraged to call the church office at 410-442-2020 to set up a reserved time slot, although walk in donors are more than welcome, too. Mark your calendar for the blood drive Jan. 26. St. James is located on Route 99, just off of Route 32.

Just a few chances left to see Brother Gerry's fabulous train garden in the Manor House at the Shrine of St. Anthony on Folly Quarter Road. The set up is open to the public Jan. 22 and 9 from 3 to 5 p.m.

The Howard County Department of Recreation and Parks has announced its deer management program for 2012. Several opportunities are available for citizens who like to help maintain a stable, balanced white-tailed deer population through a managed deer hunt.

The managed hunts will include a combination of bow and shotgun hunting in Howard County parks. The parks will be closed during the hunting hours of dawn until noon. A Bow and Shotgun hunt is set for Jan. 24 at the Alpha Ridge Park.

For information on this program or to register, go to the Department of Recreation and Parks website at http://www.howardcountymd.gov/deermanagement.htm or call 410-313-1675.

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