Bye Bye Flier Building

Good morning, Columbia.

In today’s Columbia Scoop:

Let’s get to it.

— Michelle Sinclair

From duck confit hash at The Food Market to pancake stacks at EC Diner, Columbia knows how to do brunch right. We’re talking bagels from THB, mimosas at The Turn House, and NY-deli classics at Mikey & Mel’s. Whether you're brunching in golf course glam or retro diner cool, this list has your next weekend bite.

Looking for a real estate agent who listens, strategizes, and delivers? Meet Mike Sloan of Northrop Realty, a seasoned professional with over 18 years of full-time experience, 1,200+ homes sold, and $500 million+ in sales. Named one of The Wall Street Journal’s Top Agents, Mike’s a competitor who thrives on challenges and relationships. A Howard County native and family man, Mike’s ready to put his expertise to work for you. Reach out to Mike to see how he can help.

The iconic Columbia Flier building is no more. Demolished weeks ago, it marks the end of an era for the old newspaper hub. Despite hopes for a redevelopment preserving its history, the building had outlived its usefulness. Plans are now in place for a new community center offering recreational, health, and social services.

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Welcome to West Friendship luxury at full volume. This 8,500+ square foot stunner in Fox Meadow is all about high-end details—think coffered ceilings, a chef’s dream kitchen, a jaw-dropping sunroom, and an entertainer’s paradise out back with a heated pool, hot tub, and two covered patios. This one's the total package.

Pole vaulting is soaring in Howard County. Sandstorm Vault, a pole vaulting gym founded by Jacob Sanders, just expanded into a 15,000-square-foot Columbia facility. With vaulters ages 9 to 80, it’s part of the region’s growing amateur sports scene—right alongside pickleball and climbing.

Nothing in this section is sponsored. They're just the things you need to know. I'll always let you know when something's sponsored.

Founded by two proud Columbia residents, Remedy Columbia is your neighborhood dispensary offering premium cannabis products and a personalized shopping experience. Whether you're seeking relief, relaxation, or inspiration, our curated selection and knowledgeable team are here to help. At Remedy, we believe in supporting our community, celebrating local culture, and making every visit feel like coming home. Visit Remedy Columbia—Where Healing Meets Home.

This week’s featured event. . .Simple Minds @ Merriweather Post, Tuesday, June 10

Get ready to relive the ‘80s! Simple Minds brings their Alive & Kicking Tour to Merriweather on June 10 with special guests Modern English and Soft Cell. Gates at 5:30, show at 7. Don’t you forget it.

🎤 District Karaoke – Summer Season at The Collective Encore! 🎉🎶
Columbia’s getting loud on Monday nights! District Karaoke brings its high-energy, team-based karaoke league to The Collective Encore. Expect themed battles, audience voting, and open mic fun—whether you're a solo star or part of a crew. Let the summer sing-offs begin! 🎶 7:00–9:00 PM, Open Karaoke: 9:00–11:00 PM

Summer Fit Series 2025- Mayweather Boxing+Fitness H.I.I.T
Glove up, Columbia! 🥊 The Summer Fit Series continues Tuesday, June 10 6:30pm at Color Burst Park with a free May-weather Boxing + Fitness class. No experience needed—just bring your energy and get ready to sweat! RSVP here.

Food Trucks at Merriweather Row Plaza
As Merriweather Food Truck Wednesdays roll on, June 11 brings the flavor with Kaziville and Paradise Island Cuisine parked at the plaza from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Grab lunch, enjoy the sun, and check out the new sculpture “Sail” while you’re there.

Howard County Public Schools earned a strong A- in Niche’s 2025 rankings for teacher quality, reflecting solid marks in academics, teacher tenure, and student-teacher ratios. While not topping the list, Howard remains a standout in Maryland’s educational landscape with a reputation for excellence and high parent satisfaction.

Savage Mill Bucks are here! Howard County Executive Calvin Ball launched the $10 voucher program to boost summer shopping at Savage Mill. With $10,000 invested, visitors can shop 70+ small businesses while supporting local entrepreneurs and discovering the charm of Historic Savage. Runs June–August while supplies last.

Ellicott City’s Mt. Hebron High just schooled the nation in economics—again. Two student teams took 1st place in the National Economics Challenge, extending the school’s reign as a powerhouse in financial smarts. That’s eight straight years of domination.

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78 🌡️ 64 | 🌨️ | 50% | 💨 W-NW 4-18 mph

79 🌡️ 65 | 🌨️ | 70% | 💨 W-SW 2-19 mph

81 🌡️ 59 | ☀️ | 0% | 💨 E-SE 2-19 mph

Cured 1821 | Mark Kotision 6pm
Collective Encore | The Ricky Wise Trio 730pm

Cured 1821 | Gene Okonski 6pm
Reckless Shepherd | Felix and Fingers: Dueling Pianos 10pm

Thanks for reading Columbia Scoop today. If you found something useful, please share it with anyone who loves to pole vault!