CALENDAR OF EVENTS

August 2008

June - November 2, 2008
Road to Rails Exhibit
Experience the story of our Nation's drive to improve travel from the horse drawn wagons of the National Road to the steam engines of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. B&O Railroad Museum: Ellicott City Station, 410-461-1945, www.ecborail.org

Late June - Mid August
Pick Your Own Blueberries
Blueberry muffins, blueberry pancakes, blueberry pies are all possible when visiting our 5 acre pick your own blueberry field. Larriland Farm, 410-442-2605, www.pickyourown.com

Mid July - Mid September
Pick Your Own Peaches
Come pick peaches and have the wonderful sensation of juice dripping off your chin and running down your arms as you bite into a juicy tree ripened peach! Larriland Farm, 410-442-2605, www.pickyourown.com

July - August
Pick Your Own Red Raspberries
Generally considered a rare delicacy, there are rows and rows and rows of lucious red raspberries for picking. Larriland Farm, 410-442-2605, www.pickyourown.com

August
Pick Your Own Thornless Blackberries
These blackberries are a joy to pick because there are no thorns! Larriland Farm, 410-442-2605, www.pickyourown.com

May through November 2008
Howard County Farmer's Markets
East Columbia Library Branch: Thursdays May 1st through November 20th from 3 til 6pm
Glenwood Library Branch: Wednesdays May 3rd through October 25th from 9:30am til 12:20pm
Oakland Mills Village: Sundays May 4th through October 26th from 10am til 2 pm

Late July through November
Matt's Cookies for Cancer
A nonprofit fundraising effort in which I will be baking cookies for sale (tax deductible) from late July to early November. They're delicious! 410-489-4959, matthewbeck123@yahoo.com

Through August 17, 2008
Lakefront Summer Festival
Great entertainment throughout the summer every night of the week, begining Friday, June 20th. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair and enjoy the live performances or movies held on the lawn at the Columbia Town Center Lakefront. Tuesdays feature entertainment for teens by teens. Fridays movies are preceded by lakefront dance instruction begining at 6:30pm. Admission and parking are free. 410-715-3161, www.columbiaassociation.com or www.lakefrontfestival.com

Through August 10, 2008
Rabbit Hole
by: David Lindsay-Abaire
Becca and Howie Corbett are ordinary people living in an upsclae suburban neighborhood. It seems they have everything; but a life-shattering accident turns their world upside down and leaves the couple drifting perilously apart. With honesty and humor, Rabbit Hole is about searching for hope, comfort, and forgiveness in the darkest moments of our lives. Winner of the 2007 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. New Mainstage at the Olney Theatre Center; 301-924-3400; www.olneytheatre.org

Through September 19, 2008
Special Summer Storytimes
Come share a special story at the farm with your favorite farm animals and storybook characters. Every Tuesday and Thursday we will offer entertaining storybook times. Books about animals, storybook characters, nursery rhymes and fairytales to delight the children. Come join in the FUN!! Tuesdays and Thursdays 11:30am and 1:30pm at Clark's ELioak Farm, 410-730-4049, www.clarklandfarm.com

August 1 & 2, 2008
Ye Haunted History of Olde Ellicott City
Join us for a guided tour through one of the most actively haunted towns on the east coast. Our guides recount tales of recent paranormal events at many locations in the Ellicott City Historic District; so many in fact that we now offer two independent tours, "Ye Haunted History of Olde Ellicott City" Ghost Tour Part I & II! Friday and Saturday, April through November at 8:30pm. Reservations strongly recommended. 410-313-1900/1-800-288-8747, www.howardcountymd.gov/HCT/HCT_GhostTours.htm

August 2, 2008
Going, Going, Gone
Enjoy close encounters with a variety of our planet's animal friends, when the Zoo comes to Banneker Park. The Maryland Zoo brings insight into the vanishing lifestyles and habitats of our live animal guests. Discover how everything we do - big or small - has an impact on the natural world. Learn ways that each of us can help protect the richness of life on our planet. Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum, 410-887-1081.

August 2, 2008
Summer Spirit Festival
Jill Scott, The Roots, Chuck Brown, and Estelle
6:00pm, gates at 4:00pm
Pavilion $74/$63, Lawn $41
Tickets go on sale Friday, June 6 at 10:00am
www.merriweathermusic.com

August 2-3, 2008
13th Birthday Sale
The Birthday Sale is an annual sale day at AAA Antiques Mall. Everything in the store is discounted at least 10% unless marked firm by the dealer. 10am to 6pm, AAA Antiques Mall, 301-483-0047, www.aaaantiquesmallmd.com

August 2-9, 2008
Howard County Fair
Livestock shows, petting zoo, rides, games, horse shows, entertainment, home arts exhibits, commercial exhibits, horse and tractor pulls, talent show, antique car show, and much more. $, 8 am til 11 pm, 410-442-1022, www.howardcountyfair.org

August 4, 2008
Return to Forever
featuring Chick Corea, Al Di Meola, Stanley Clark, and Lenny White
Gates open at 6:30.
www.merriweathermusic.com

August 4, 2008
Travelin' Bands: The Geckos
Department of Rec and Parks "traveling" Showmobile stage is coming to a park near you! So grab a blanket or lawn chair, bring the family, have a picnic and enjoy the sounds of summer. Edy's/Drey'ers Grand Ice Cream will sponsor free ice cream at each location. This event is for all ages and is free, 7pm at Schooley Mill, 410-313-4452 (inclement weather number), www.howardcountymd.gov/rap/

August 5, 2008
Thrifty Tuesday
All aboard! The B&O offers half price admission for all visitors the first Tuesday of every month! 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, B&O - Baltimore Station, 410-752-2490, www.borail.org

August 6, 2008
Sunset Serenades: DAVID BACH CONSORT
Jazz
An event for all ages. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy performances in the park. Rent a canoe or paddleboat or savor a leisurely supper. You can bring a picnic or choose from the concession menu. Parking donations are $3 per car, 7pm at Centennial Park, Howard County Rec and Parks, 410-313-4452 (inclement weather number), www.howardcountymd.gov/rap/

August 6, 2008
Toddler Time at the B&O - Baltimore Station
Visit the museum and enjoy story time as you listen to classic railroad children's books. Kiddie train rides are included in the price of admission. Recommended for children between the ages of 2-5. 10:30 am, 410-752-2490, www.borail.org

August 7, 2008
Family Fun Day
Kidsinger Jim
Thursday mornings are very special at the Mall in Columbia as families enjoy lively children's entertainment! Lord & Taylor lower court, 10:00-11:00am, free and open to the public, 410-730-3300, www.themallincolumbia.com

August 7, 2008
Freestyle
Howard County Department of Recreation and Parks is opening Freestyle, a new teen drop-in center at Ridgely's Run Community Center, 8400 Mission Road, Jessup. The center, designed by teens, for teens, will offer a choice of hanging out with friends, playing basketball and video games, listening to music, having a snack at the Snack Shop and other activities. The center will be open from 6pm to 9:30pm August 7, August 21, September 11, September 25, October 16, October 30, November 13, and December 4th. The cost $5. Registration is not required. For more details contact Danielle Bassett at 410-313-1693, www.co.ho.md.us/Rap/

August 8, 2008
Identifying Trees
Have you ever wondered what type of trees are growing in your backyard? Come and see what trees we have growing here at Patapsco and learn to identify them. Find out how the Patapsco Valley forest has changed through time and some cool facts about our park’s trees. We will take a short half a mile walk, so dress for the weather and bring your hiking boots. This activity is for all ages. Follow the signs and meet at area 600. Please call 410-461-5005 to pre-register. 6:30-7:30pm, McKeldin Area of the Patapsco Valley State Park, $2.00 per person, 410-461-5005, www.dnr.state.md.us

August 8 & 9, 2008
The Savage Mill Summer Concert Series
12-1:30pm in the New Weave Building Atrium. Enjoy lunch and jazz in this unique setting of the Savage Mill. Get away from the office or just come out for some good tunes and food! Fridays and Saturdays through August at Historic Savage Mill, 1-800-788-6455, www.savagemill.com

August 8 & 9, 2008
Ye Haunted History of Olde Ellicott City
Join us for a guided tour through one of the most actively haunted towns on the east coast. Our guides recount tales of recent paranormal events at many locations in the Ellicott City Historic District; so many in fact that we now offer two independent tours, "Ye Haunted History of Olde Ellicott City" Ghost Tour Part I & II! Friday and Saturday, April through November at 8:30pm. Reservations strongly recommended. 410-313-1900/1-800-288-8747, www.howardcountymd.gov/HCT/HCT_GhostTours.htm

August 9, 2008
Turntable Demonstrations
Ever wonder how the museum moves locomotives and cars in and out of the 1884 Roundhouse? Watch museum staff use the turntable to move a historic railcar. Free trainrides included in the price of admission. 11:30 am, B&O - Baltimore Station, 410-752-2490, www.borail.org

August 9, 2008
Wonder Walk: Butterflies
Dick Smith, author of the annotated list "The Butterflies of Howard County," will lead this walk. Howard County Conservancy, 10 am, 410-465-8877, www.hcconservancy.org

August 10, 2008
A Brief History of Orange Grove Area
Bring your walking shoes and your thirst for local history for a 45 minute history tour of Orange Grove. Learn about the humble beginnings of the Orange Grove Flour Mill, the Swinging Bridge, how Orange Grove was an important factor in the industrial revolution of the Patapsco River Valley, and what lead to its demise. Tour will involve walking on flat, paved surfaces about 1 mile. Meet at the Orange Grove Restrooms near the Swinging Bridge. For all ages. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. 10:00-11:00am, Avalon/Orange Grove Area of the Patapsco Valley State Park, $2.00 per person, 410-461-5005, www.dnr.state.md.us

August 10, 2008
Dinner and Concert Under the Stars
Celebrate with the Friars and evening of music and dining amid the ambiance of our Italian-Renaissance courtyard. Our guest if honor - Clare of Assisi. Shrine of St. Anthony, $, 6 pm, 410-531-2800, www.shrineofstanthony.org

August 11, 2008
Feast of St. Clare - Eucharist & Reception
Celebrate with the Friars, the feast of Clare of Assisi. Join us at the Eucharist and a reception. Shrine of St. Anthony, 7:30 pm, 410-531-2800, www.shrineofstanthony.org

August 11-15, 2008
Kid's Interactive Cooking Camp (Half Day)
Allow a child in your life to develop their "inner chef" and acquire basic kitchen skills and cooking knowledge. Breakfast will provided for every morning and prepared by the students themselves. There will be food brought home every day so family members can enjoy what their young chefs have been learning. There will be a reception on Friday for family and friends to mingle and marvel over their children's accomplishments. 8:30am to 12:20pm at The Elkridge Furnace Inn, $425 per person inclusive of all materials and tax. Reservations required; limited space available. 410-379-9336, www.theelkridgefurnaceinn.com

August 14, 2008
Family Fun Day
Storytime & Sing-along with Miss Julie
Thursday mornings are very special at the Mall in Columbia as families enjoy lively children's entertainment! Lord & Taylor lower court, 10:00-11:00am, free and open to the public, 410-730-3300, www.themallincolumbia.com

August 14, 2008
Basic Outdoor Survival
Do you know what items you should have in your backpack EVERY time you go into the woods? Do you know how to build an emergency shelter or start a fire with one or no matches? If you want to learn these, and other basic survival skills, come to this hands on presentation where you learn by seeing and doing. For ages 10 & up. Meet at the Hilton Youth Group Campground. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. 5:00-9:00pm, Hilton Area of the Patapsco Valley State Park, $5.00 per person (includes materials), 410-461-5005, http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/central/patapscovalley.html
www.dnr.state.md.us

August 14, 2008
Sunset Serenades: SHADES OF BLUE
Big Band
An event for all ages. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy performances in the park. Rent a canoe or paddleboat or savor a leisurely supper. You can bring a picnic or choose from the concession menu. Parking donations are $3 per car, 7pm at Centennial Park, Howard County Rec and Parks, 410-313-4452 (inclement weather number), www.howardcountymd.gov/rap/

August 15, 2008
25% Off at AIDA Bistro
Friday evenings in August take 25% off a large list of wines and special prices for craft beers. 410-953-0500, www.aidabistro.com

August 15, 2008
The Wonders of Water
Join us as we hike stretches of the Patapsco and some of its tributaries to learn how wonderful water can be. We will discuss the importance of water to life on earth, what the water cycle is and how it works, and what we can do to help keep our water clean for ourselves and future generations. Wear comfortable shoes you don’t mind getting wet or dirty, and bring water. For ages 7 & up. Meet at Lost Lake. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. 5:00-7:00pm, Avalon Area of the Patapsco Valley State Park, $2.00 per person, 410-461-5005, www.dnr.state.md.us

August 15, 2008
Outdoor Games
Come to the McKeldin area and play some fun outdoor games that will also teach a lesson about wildlife and our environment. Wear good shoes and bring bug spray & plenty of water. For ages 6-12 (parent chaperones welcome). Meet at contact station. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. 12:00-2:00pm, McKeldin Area of the Patapsco Valley State Park, $2.00 per person, 410-461-5005, www.dnr.state.md.us

August 15 & 16, 2008
The Savage Mill Summer Concert Series
12-1:30pm in the New Weave Building Atrium. Enjoy lunch and jazz in this unique setting of the Savage Mill. Get away from the office or just come out for some good tunes and food! Fridays and Saturdays through August at Historic Savage Mill, 1-800-788-6455, www.savagemill.com

August 15 & 16, 2008
Ye Haunted History of Olde Ellicott City
Join us for a guided tour through one of the most actively haunted towns on the east coast. Our guides recount tales of recent paranormal events at many locations in the Ellicott City Historic District; so many in fact that we now offer two independent tours, "Ye Haunted History of Olde Ellicott City" Ghost Tour Part I & II! Friday and Saturday, April through November at 8:30pm. Reservations strongly recommended. 410-313-1900/1-800-288-8747, www.howardcountymd.gov/HCT/HCT_GhostTours.htm

August 16 & 17, 2008
Enchanted Forest 53rd Birthday Party!!
Special family activities all day. Fairy tale characters, storytimes, entertainers, facepainting, Enchanted Forest memorabilia on sale. Sale of the famed "Enchanted Forest stones." See the new Enchanted Forest items we have restored in 2008. COME JOIN IN THE FUN!!! Bring copies of old family photographs to share. For the photo contest, we are looking for the oldest photo from the Enchanted Forest, best set of photos from two generations visiting the Enchanted Forest, and the best photo of Willie the Whale. Clark's ELioak Farm, 410-730-4049, www.clarklandfarm.com

August 16, 2008
Show 'n' Shine: Sidecars & Trikes!
Like you FUN with an extra wheel attached? This is your day to show off your rig! Bob's BMW, 301-497-8949, www.bobsbmw.com

August 16, 2008
Daniels Canoe Trip
Come learn some basic canoe skills and then put them to use as we paddle the gentle backwater of the Daniels Dam. Learn about the natural history of the Patapsco, and stop for a picturesque lunch break along the way! Wear shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting wet or dirty, and bring a bag lunch and a water bottle. Hats and sunscreen are also recommended. Life vests, paddles, and canoes will be provided. For ages 10 & up (Under 15 must be accompanied by an adult). Meet at Daniels Area Parking Lot. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up and for directions to the meeting place. 11:00am-4:00pm, Daniels Area of the Patapsco Valley State Park, $10.00 per person, 410-461-5005, www.dnr.state.md.us

August 17, 2008
Cuts Against Cancer
Participants can receive haircuts and manicures at discounted prices while supporting a good cause at Lutfi's International Salon & Spa. Proceeds benefit the Claudia Mayer Cancer Resource Center. 10am-4pm, 410-740-5858, www.hcgh.org

August 17, 2008
Leave It to Beavers
Hey kids, come learn from a seasonal naturalist about nature’s most gifted engineer. Make a bark picture frame for your favorite summer photo. Ages 4 & above. Meet at Shelter. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. 10:00-11:30am, Hilton Area of the Patapsco Valley State Park, $2.00 per person, 410-461-5005, www.dnr.state.md.us

August 18, 2008
Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults
Annual Golf Tournament
9:30am Shotgun Start at Waverly Woods Golf Course. Foursome: $600, Individual: $150. Register at www.ulmanfund.org, 410-964-0202*103

August 18, 2008
Travelin' Bands: The Nighthawks
Department of Rec and Parks "traveling" Showmobile stage is coming to a park near you! So grab a blanket or lawn chair, bring the family, have a picnic and enjoy the sounds of summer. Edy's/Drey'ers Grand Ice Cream will sponsor free ice cream at each location. This event is for all ages and is free, 7pm at Rockburn Park, 410-313-4452 (inclement weather number), www.howardcountymd.gov/rap/

August 18-22, 2008
Kid's Advanced Cooking Camp (Full Day)
This camp is geared toward older children who have, perhaps, participated in previous classes at the Inn or have a real passion for cooking. More advanced techniques and complex dishes will be taught during this camp. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. There will be food brought home every day so family members can enjoy what their young chefs have been learning. There will be a reception on Friday for family and friends to migle and marvel over their children's accomplishments. 9am to 4:30pm at The Elkridge Furnace Inn. $600 per person inclusive of all materials and tax. Reservations required; limited space available. 410-379-9336, www.elkridgefurnaceinn.com

August 19, 2008
Gourmet Beer Dinner
AIDA Bistro and The Perfect Pour present our Summer Beer Dinner. Join us at AIDA Bistro to celebrate great food and beer. Chef Sean has created a special four course meal. We will feature Troegs and Clipper City Beers that are matched with each course. The event is limited to 45 people. Four Course Dinner & Amuse, plus 8 Craft Beers, 55 dollars per person (plus tax and gratuitity), call 410-953-0500 for reservations, www.aidabistro.com

August 20, 2008
Toddler Time at the B&O - Baltimore Station
Visit the museum and enjoy story time as you listen to classic railroad children's books. Kiddie train rides are included in the price of admission. Recommended for children between the ages of 2-5. 10:30 am, 410-752-2490, www.borail.org

August 20, 2008
Sunset Serenades: BAD INFLUENCE BAND
Uptempo Blues & Rock
An event for all ages. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy performances in the park. Rent a canoe or paddleboat or savor a leisurely supper. You can bring a picnic or choose from the concession menu. Parking donations are $3 per car, 7pm at Centennial Park, Howard County Rec and Parks, 410-313-4452 (inclement weather number), www.howardcountymd.gov/rap/

August 21, 2008
Family Fun Day
The High Energy Magic of Speed and Thro
Thursday mornings are very special at the Mall in Columbia as families enjoy lively children's entertainment! Lord & Taylor lower court, 10:00-11:00am, free and open to the public, 410-730-3300, www.themallincolumbia.com

August 21, 2008
River Splash
Have fun exploring the wildlife of the Patapsco river before the return to school. Wear clothes and shoes that can get wet. For ages 8-12. Meet by Shelter 104 Playground area. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up.10:30am-12:00pm, Avalon Area of the Patapsco Valley State Park, $2 per person, 410-461-5005, www.dnr.state.md.us

August 21, 2008
Freestyle
Howard County Department of Recreation and Parks is opening Freestyle, a new teen drop-in center at Ridgely's Run Community Center, 8400 Mission Road, Jessup. The center, designed by teens, for teens, will offer a choice of hanging out with friends, playing basketball and video games, listening to music, having a snack at the Snack Shop and other activities. The center will be open from 6pm to 9:30pm August 7, August 21, September 11, September 25, October 16, October 30, November 13, and December 4th. The cost $5. Registration is not required. For more details contact Danielle Bassett at 410-313-1693, www.co.ho.md.us/Rap/

August 21, 2008
Sounds of Insects Hike
Led by Wil Hershberger, Author of Sounds of Insects. 5-8pm at Howard County Conservancy, 410-465-8877, www.hcconservancy.org

August 22, 2008
25% Off at AIDA Bistro
Friday evenings in August take 25% off a large list of wines and special prices for craft beers. 410-953-0500, www.aidabistro.com

August 22 & 23, 2008
The Savage Mill Summer Concert Series
12-1:30pm in the New Weave Building Atrium. Enjoy lunch and jazz in this unique setting of the Savage Mill. Get away from the office or just come out for some good tunes and food! Fridays and Saturdays through August at Historic Savage Mill, 1-800-788-6455, www.savagemill.com

August 22 & 23, 2008
Ye Haunted History of Olde Ellicott City
Join us for a guided tour through one of the most actively haunted towns on the east coast. Our guides recount tales of recent paranormal events at many locations in the Ellicott City Historic District; so many in fact that we now offer two independent tours, "Ye Haunted History of Olde Ellicott City" Ghost Tour Part I & II! Friday and Saturday, April through November at 8:30pm. Reservations strongly recommended. 410-313-1900/1-800-288-8747, www.howardcountymd.gov/HCT/HCT_GhostTours.htm

August 23, 2008
Fire Up the Grill with Grillmaster Steven Raichlen, MPT and Savage Mill
Grillers and non-grillers alike are invited to attend MPT's Summer Sizzle event free of charge at the Rams Head Tavern Courtyard in Historic Savage Mill. Guests will enjoy live music, beverages and a demonstration and taste of winning recipe. 4 to 7pm, www.mpt.org

August 23, 2008
Gee-whiz Geology
Come join us on this leisurely hike along Buzzard’s Rock Trail & Illchester Rock Trails as we learn about geology. Learn about the different types of rocks, how different rocks form and change, and some of the natural history of how the Patapsco River Valley was formed. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. For ages 7 & up. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up & for directions to the meeting place. 3:00-5:00pm, Hilltop Road Parking Area in the Patapsco Valley State Park, $2.00 per person, 410-461-5005, www.dnr.state.md.us

August 24, 2008
Campground Cooking
Come join Chris Hartman, our volunteer Hilton campground host and learn to make Campfire Calzones, Quick ‘N Easy Chili, Pizza Rollups, Dutch Oven Desserts, The Best ‘Smores, and the many uses of aluminum foil. Plus summer salads all year ‘round and a few other surprises. This program requires a minimum of 5 participants and is limited to a maximum of 15 participants. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. 12:00-2:00pm, Hilton Area of the Patapsco Valley State Park, $5.00 per person to cover costs of ingredients & supplies, 410-461-5005, www.dnr.state.md.us

August 24, 2008
Terrific Turtles
Come learn about the turtles that live in the park and throughout the state of Maryland. Also, learn what you can do to help protect these special creatures, all while searching for turtles and getting to feel a real turtle shell. For ages 4 & up. Meet at Lost Lake. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. 2:00-3:00pm, Avalon Area of the Patapsco Valley State Park, $2 per person, 410-461-5005, www.dnr.state.md.us

August 24, 2008
Iron Girl Columbia, Women's Triathlon
A "short" distance triathlon: 0.62 mile swim, 17.5 mile bike, 3.4 mile run. Part of the premier national Iron Girl event. The Columbia Triathlon Association, Inc, $, 7 am to noon, 410-964-1246, www.tricolumbia.org

August 26, 3008
Patapsco River History Hike
Come join one of the park’s Volunteer Rangers and explore the Orange Grove Mill, the Swinging Bridge, and the Bloede Dam. For ages 8 & up. Meet at the parking lot across from Shelter #106 near the swinging bridge. Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots, and bring water. Please call 410-750-0674 in advance to sign up. 9:30-11:00am, Avalon/Orange Grove Area of the Patapsco Valley State Park, Free - donations welcome, 410-461-5005, www.dnr.state.md.us

August 27, 2008
Nature Sprouts: Animal Homes
Look at the types of animal homes both big & small on a short hike & do a craft. For ages 3-5. Meet at Lost Lake. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. 10:00-11:00am, Avalon Area of the Patapsco Valley State Park, $3.00 per person (materials included), 410-461-5005, www.dnr.state.md.us

August 27 - September 28, 2008
Trumbo: Red, White and Blacklisted
Starring Nigel Reed and Jonathan Watkins at the Studio Theatre, Howard Community College. Tickets may be purchased by calling the Rep Stage Box Office at 410-772-4900 or online at www.repstage.org

August 28, 2008
Family Fun Day
Storytime & Sing-a-long with Miss Julie
Thursday mornings are very special at the Mall in Columbia as families enjoy lively children's entertainment! Lord & Taylor lower court, 10:00-11:00am, free and open to the public, 410-730-3300, www.themallincolumbia.com

August 28, 2008
Murder & Mayhem at the Manor
Join us for an unforgettable interactive murder mystery night. Preceding the murder, guests will be invited to enjoy a sumptuous buffet. We know someone will be dying to undertake the mission that awaits; so after dinner, the search for the killer will begin. Throughout the manor home, clues will be hidden as to the identity of the murderer. Will you and your team be the first to solve the puzzle? Will someone else fall prey to mysterious mischief? You'll have to wait to find out, as the villain for the evening's crime will be revealed over dessert and coffee. Join the fun and excitement. $56 per person inclusive of service and tax. Reservations required. 7pm to 10pm at The Elkridge Furnace Inn. 410-379-0180, www.elkridgefurnaceinn.com

August 29, 2008
25% Off at AIDA Bistro
Friday evenings in August take 25% off a large list of wines and special prices for craft beers. 410-953-0500, www.aidabistro.com

August 29, 2008
Glenn Miller Orchestra
Sway to the swinging sounds of the legendary Glenn Miller Orchestra. Tickets are just $25 per person and overnight packages are available. Turf Valley Resort, 410-423-0812, www.turfvalleyresort.com

August 29 & 30, 2008
The Savage Mill Summer Concert Series
12-1:30pm in the New Weave Building Atrium. Enjoy lunch and jazz in this unique setting of the Savage Mill. Get away from the office or just come out for some good tunes and food! Fridays and Saturdays through August at Historic Savage Mill, 1-800-788-6455, www.savagemill.com

August 29 & 30, 2008
Ye Haunted History of Olde Ellicott City
Join us for a guided tour through one of the most actively haunted towns on the east coast. Our guides recount tales of recent paranormal events at many locations in the Ellicott City Historic District; so many in fact that we now offer two independent tours, "Ye Haunted History of Olde Ellicott City" Ghost Tour Part I & II! Friday and Saturday, April through November at 8:30pm. Reservations strongly recommended. 410-313-1900/1-800-288-8747, www.howardcountymd.gov/HCT/HCT_GhostTours.htm

August 30, 3008
Family Sunset Walk
Listen to evening sounds as we explore the night visitors to the park. Take a short hike (1 mile) as we look for owls, bats and our beautiful moths (bring flashlights, but we will hike by natural light). For all ages. Meet by baseball fields. Please call 410-461-5005 in advance to sign up. 7:30-9:30pm, Hilton Area of the Patapsco Valley State Park, $2.00 per person, 410-461-5005,
www.dnr.state.md.us

August 31, 3008
Brunch Ride
with Bob from Finger Lakes Rally (NY) to Belhurst Castle. Great ride, amazing meal, helps the Ride for Kids. Advance tickets required. Bob's BMW, 301-497-8949, www.bobsbmw.com