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100 Per Cent Local


 

Last night I had the great joy of catching up with an old friend over dinner from the Common Kitchen at Clarksville Commons. The weather was perfect for outdoor dining. As they say in old school restaurant reviews, “my lovely companion” choose a gorgeous bowl (and generous) from Koshary. I hopped about a bit, starting with a gin and tonic from Trifecto Bar, followed by empanadas from Tasty Empanadas.

I finished it all with one small and perfect scoop of Salted Caramel from Scoop and Paddle. It was heavenly.

We were lucky to be there long enough to enjoy some live musical entertainment from Dave and Rebecca. It was fun to watch a steady stream of folks arriving with their folding chairs to set up for the evening’s event. I continue to be impressed with how Clarksville Commons is succeeding as more of a “Village Center” than most of the Columbia Village Centers. 

They give the community a common space to be together and a variety of reasons throughout the year to come out and be a part of things: live music, performances by school groups, outdoor movies, yoga, and the Farmer’s Market, for instance. I remember driving by that piece of land for years, wonder if anything would ever become of it. Honestly, Clarksville Commons is just about the only reason I head out that way these days.

Other unadulterated fun this week came from my very first visit to Cindy’s Soft Serve. Following a caramel sundae that was everything I’d hoped for, my friend took me on a personal tour of Elkridge. This was my second such tour this year, the first being at the end of April. Highlights of this week’s tour included a trip over the line to see where Guinness is located, and the long and winding down Route 1 to high school 13.

I’d really love to have a comprehensive paper map of Elkridge. Is there one? It would help me zoom out and get the big picture of how everything is laid out. I’m that kind of learner. I want to highlight locations as I visit them so I can get a better grasp of how they relate to one another, location-wise. The iPad wont cut it. I want paper.

Send me your suggestions.

Update: Due to a forecast of heavy rain, tomorow’s concert at the Chrysalis has been rescheduled for Sunday, 9/18, at 5 pm. 

Two dates for your calendar: tomorrow at the Chrysalis, beginning at 6 pm, the Columbia Orchestra is presenting Classics at the Chrysalis.



This looks like it’s going to be a fun, engaging program. Reserve your free tickets here and they’ll send along info about your parking assignment. Bring your own chair or blanket, or rent a chair for five dollars. I hope I’ll see you there!

Lastly, if you have been planning to attend the celebration of life for former Superintendent of Schools Michael Hickey, the venue has been changed. It will now be taking place at the Jim Rouse Theatre at Wilde Lake High School: Thursday, September 15, at 4 pm.

It looks like there’s some rain in the forecast for today. How is your weekend shaping up?


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