CALENDAR OF EVENTS

July 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 July
Pick Your Own Tart Cherries
Pick your own tart cherries and enjoy one of the best cherry pies you'll ever eat! Larriland Farm, 410-442-2605, www.pickyourown.com

Late June - Mid August
Pick Your Own Blueberries
Blueberry muffins, blueberry pancakes, blueberry pies are all possible when visiting our 5 acre pick you own blueberry field. 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

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

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

Through July 13, 2008
Shakespeare in the Ruins
Presented by the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company at the Patapsco Female Institute in Historic Ellicott City. The Comedy of Errors and the Tempest. Don't miss this very popular event. Reserve your tickets early. 410-313-8874, Box Office 866-811-4111,www.chesapeakeshakespeare.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 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

July 1, 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

July 2, 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

July 2, 2008
Lakefront Wednesdays
Join the downtown Columbia community for free lunchtime entertainment and a free beverage. Bring a bag lunch or grab a mid-day meal at area restaurants. Columbia Association, noon til 2pm at the Lakefront Plaza, 410-715-3104, www.columbiacalendar.org

July 2, 2008
Sunset Serenades: BARRY LOUIS POLISAR
Kids Music & Composer for Opening Score for the Movie "Juno"
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/

July 4, 2008
4th of July Festival
County Executive Ken Ulman invites you to The Columbia Lakefront for an evening of family, fun and fireworks! Live bands, children's entertainment, and food vendors! Bring blankets, chairs and a picnic supper! 5-10pm, Howard County Recreation & Parks, 410-313-PARK, www.howardcountymd.gov/rap/

July 4 & 5, 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

July 5, 2008
Cutting of the Wheat
The Maryland Draft Horse and Mule Association will join the Howard County Antique Farm Machinery Club at the new Living Farm Heritage Museum to do demonstrations of plowing fields to prepare for planting corn. 10am at the Living Farm Heritage Museum, 410-531-2569, www.farmheritage.org

July 8, 2008
Patapsco River History Hike - Avalon/Orange Grove
Come join one of the park's Volunteer Rangers and explore the Orange Grove Mill, the Swinging Bridge, and the Bloede Dam. Ages 8 and up, 6 to 7:30pm, 410-750-0674, Patapsco Valley State Park, www.dnr.state.md.us

July 9, 2008
Primitive Fire, the Bow Drill - Hilton Area
So, you can start a fire with one match. What about starting a fire with no match at all? The bow drill is an introduction to primitive fire creation. Ages 14 and up, $2 per person, 3 to 5pm, 410-461-5005, Patapsco Valley State Park, www.dnr.state.md.us

July 9, 2008
Afternoon Tea
Join us for a relaxing traditional afternoon tea including a seasonal selection of fine loose teas; a choice of soup or salad served with a scone; clotted cream and jam; followed by assorted tea savories and sweets; and finishing with a scoop of our homemade sorbet du jour. $26.50 per person inclusive of service and tax. Reservations required. Seatings 11am to 2:20pm at the Elkridge Furnace Inn. 410-379-9336, www.elkridgefurnaceinn.com

July 9, 2008
Dropkick Murphys and Mighty Mighty Bosstones
7:00pm, Gates Open at 5:30pm
General Admission $35
Tickets go on sale Saturday, May 17 at 10am.
www.merriweathermusic.com

July 9, 2008
Sunset Serenades: THE CRAWDADDIES
Zydeco/Roots Rock/Ska
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/

July 11 & 12, 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

July 12, 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, 410-752-2490, www.borail.org

July 12, 2008
Wonder Walk: Nesting Birds
Robin Todd surveyed the Conservancy property for the Breed Birds Atlas published by the Maryland Ornithological Society. howard County Conservancy, 10 am, 410-465-8877 www.hcconservancy.org

July 12, 2008
Bad Bad Plants
Ever thrown a dead plant outside thinking it would do no harm? Or does it? This program can answer that question for you. Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots and bring water and curious minds for a stroll through Avalon discovering invasive species. Ages 10 and up, 11 to 12, 410-750-0674, Patapsco Valley State Park, www.dnr.state.md.us

July 12, 2008
History of the Avalon Dam and Iron & Nail Works
Learn about the history behind the old remnants of the Avalon dam and Iron & Nail Works starting from the Revoluntionary War to the present. Visitors will see first hand how the Patapsco River brought progress, prosperity, and at times destruction to an industry that was the lifeblood of the local community. 2-3pm, $2 per person, 410-461-5005, Patapsco Valley State Park, www.dnr.state.md.us

July 12, 2008
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly - Scales & Tales
Come face to face with owls, vultures, snakes and more of nature's mysterious creatures in this presentation by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. FREE at the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum. 1 to 2pm. 410-887-1081.

July 13, 2008
John Mayer with Brett Dennen
7:30pm, gates open at 6:00pm
Pavilion $59.50, Lawn $36.00
Tickets go on sale Saturday, April 19 at 10:00am.
www.merriweathermusic.com

July 13-19, 2008
The Spirituality of Saint John's Gospel: Conference Retreat
John's Gospel is quite different in character from the three synoptic gospels. The conferences for this retreat will be a combination of presentation and prayer exercises. The reflections and exercises will bring out the richness and depth of John's ponderings on the life of Jesus and how Jesus cannot be known outside the experience of community. Bon Secours Spiritual Center, 410-442-1320, www.BonSecoursRetreats.org

July 14, 2008
Bastille Day
"Storm the castle walls!" Join us to celebrate the independence of France. Enjoy a chef's menu to delight and entertainment! Reservations required, 6:30 pm, $74 plus tax and gratuity, Tersiguels French Country Restaurant, 410-465-4004, www.tersiguels.com

July 16, 2008
Sunset Serenades: BIG DADDY STALLINGS
Blues
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/

July 16 - 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

July 16, 2008
Vans Warped Tour
Angels & Airwaves, Cobra Starship and more.
All general admission $31.
Tickets go on sale Saturday, April 5 at 10am.
www.merriweathermusic.com

July 16, 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

July 16, 2008
Civil War Series
Clara Barton - Red Cross Angel presented by Mary Ann Jung. Part of the six monthly lectures on Civil War topics offered at the Glenwood 50+ Center. 10am, 410-313-5440

July 17, 2008
The Savage Mill Summer Concert Series
Adam Rooner 12-1pm in The New Weave Building in front of Mike's New York Deli. 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! Every Thursday through August at Historic Savage Mill, 1-800-788-6455, www.savagemill.com

July 17, 2008
Fiddlers and Fireflies
Steve Hickman, world class fiddler and hambone artist, St. John's Parish Day Fiddlers, Bring your picnic, Firefly Crafts for kids, 6:30 to 9:30pm, $5 parking donation per car at the Howard County Conservancy at Mt. Pleasent Farm, 410-465-8877, www.hcconservancy.org

July 17, 2008
Steve Miller Band
with special guest Joe Cocker
Gates open at 5:30pm.
www.merriweathermusic.com

July 18, 2008
Disc Golf - McKeldin Area
Are green fees getting you down? Bring a disc or Frisbee and learn how to play this fun and inexpensive game. 7-8:30pm, $2 per person, 410-461-5005, Patapsco Valley State Park, www.dnr.state.md.us

July 18, 2008
Travelin' Bands: Sean Grace Band
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 Patapsco Female Institute, 410-313-4452 (inclement weather number), www.howardcountymd.gov/rap/

July 18 & 19, 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

July 19, 2008
Our Feathered Friends: the Lives of Birds - Hilton Area
Come to the new nature center near the Hilton tire playground to learn about various adaptations of birds. Ages 3-8, 1 to 2pm, $2 per person, 410-461-5005, Patapsco Valley State Park, www.dnr.state.md.us

July 19, 2008
Abu the Flutemaker
Craft your own flute! The nationally known performance artist, Abu, will conduct a workshop for kids of all ages in flute making and other wind instruments. Bring along a friend and have fun learning and making music! FREE at Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum. 1 to 2pm. 410-887-1081.

July 21, 2008
The Gourmand Club Goes To Spain
Join us for an incredible five course wine dinner as we explore a different region that has been influenced by the French. The exploration will be through food, wine, and a lively discussion of regional culture and sights. If you are not a current member but you would like to join or attend please call John Stutts at 410-379-9336 for more information. 6:30pm to 9pm at The Elkridge Furnace Inn. $90 inclusive of service and tax. Reservations required. 410-379-9336, www.elkridgefurnaceinn.com

July 23, 2008
Afternoon Tea
Join us for a relaxing traditional afternoon tea including a seasonal selection of fine loose teas; a choice of soup or salad served with a scone; clotted cream and jam; followed by assorted tea savories and sweets; and finishing with a scoop of our homemade sorbet du jour. $26.50 per person inclusive of service and tax. Reservations required. Seatings 11am to 2:20pm at the Elkridge Furnace Inn. 410-379-9336, www.elkridgefurnaceinn.com

July 23, 2008
Sunset Serenades: STICKTIME
Rock/Pop
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/

July 24, 2008
The Savage Mill Summer Concert Series
12-1pm in The New Weave Building in front of Mike's New York Deli. 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! Every Thursday through August at Historic Savage Mill, 1-800-788-6455, www.savagemill.com

July 25, 2008
Bastille Day Wine Tasting and Fundraiser for Johns Hopkins Children's Center
Join the Bastille Day Celebration benefiting the Johns Hopkins Children's Center Pediatric Trauma Service. The general public is invited to enjoy wine, heavy hors doeuvres and live music. Proceeds from this event and the accompanying silent auction will be contributed to the Pediatric Trauma Team, which serves as the official pediatric trauma center for Maryland and treats more than 1,000 critically injured children each year. Tickets are $50 in advance or $60 at the door. 7:30 to 11:00pm at The Elkridge Furnace Inn. 410-379-9336, www.elkridgefurnaceinn.com

July 25 & 26, 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

July 26, 2008
Campground Cooking - Hilton Area Shelter
Come join 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 suprises. 12 to 2pm, $5 per person, 410-461-5005, Patapsco Valley State Park, www.dnr.state.md.us

July 26, 2008
Discover Daniels
Come out and see the wildlife, learn a little histroy of the park, hike along the river, and get in shape at the same time. Ages 11 and up, 7 to 9pm, 410-461-5005, Patapsco Valley State Park, www.dnr.state.md.us

July 26, 2008
International Day
Celebrate Columbia's diversity at this all-day celebration of arts, foods, crafts and music from Columbia's diverse cultural palette. Newcomers can receive information about the community. Columbia Association, noon til 11pm at the Lakefront Plaza, 410-715-3104, www.columbiacalendar.org

July 26, 2008
Annual Theme Umbrella Exhibition
Hand painted umbrellas by individual age 5 and up. Umbrellas can be picked up starting May 1. Call 410-730-0075 for more information.
www.columbiaartcenter.org

July 26, 2008
O.A.R. with The Beautiful Girls
7:30pm, gates open at 6:00pm
Pavilion $38, Lawn $30
Tickets go on sale Saturday, April 12 at 10am.
www.merriweathermusic.com

July 27, 2008
Rock the Bells Festival w/ A Tribe Called Quest, Nas, Mos Def, Method Man & Redman and more...
Noon, Gates Open at 11am
Pavillion $83 (including GA Floor), $63, Lawn $40
Tickets go on sale Saturday, May 17 at 10am.
www.merriweathermusic.com

July 29-30, 2008
Disney Music Block Party
They Might Be Giants, Dan Zanes, Ralph's World, and Choo Choo Soul
Plus kids activities!
3:30pm, gates at 2:30pm
General Admission $36
Tickets go on sale Friday, May 30 at 10am
www.merriweathermusic.com

July 30, 2008
Bad Reps - Hilton Area
Snakes, bats, owls and coyotes. These and other animals that often live right outside our homes have bad reputations leading us to believe that they are scary, aggressive, or omens of bad luck. Come to the new nature center near the Hilton tire playground to learn why these animals don't deserve such a bad rep. $2 per person, 10 to 11am, Patapsco Valley State Park, www.dnr.state.md.us

July 30, 2008
Sunset Serenades: SONS OF PIRATES
"Buffet" Tribute 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/

July 31, 2008
The Savage Mill Summer Concert Series
12-1pm in The New Weave Building in front of Mike's New York Deli. 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! Every Thursday through August at Historic Savage Mill, 1-800-788-6455, www.savagemill.com

July 31, 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

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