🍦Retail Rents To The Moon

Good morning, Columbia.

In today’s Columbia Scoop:

Let’s get to it.

— Michelle Sinclair

On Saturday morning, thousands lined the intersection near The Mall in Columbia to join the “No Kings Nationwide Day of Defiance,” a national protest organized by the progressive group Indivisible. Waving American flags and homemade signs—some laced with profanity—demonstrators showed their support for democracy and opposition to fascism and Trump-era policies. Cars and trucks honked in solidarity as the crowd, mostly older and white but notably diverse, stood united. Columbia’s protest was one of over 2,000 nationwide. The intersection became a sea of red, white, and blue—part resistance, part reminder of the power of public dissent.

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.

After hours of debate, Howard County’s Board of Appeals ruled that a Highland go-kart track could qualify as an “athletic field.” That means the case can move forward. The final decision on whether it stays or goes? Coming June 26. Stay tuned. ($)

Beech leaf disease is worsening in Howard County, threatening native and ornamental beech trees. Caused by a microscopic nematode, it damages buds and leaves, eventually killing trees within 6 to 10 years. There’s no cure, but late-summer fungicide treatments and increased pruning can help slow the disease’s spread in local woodlands.

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Retail space in Columbia is hot—and expensive. Average rents now top $28 per square foot, second only to Annapolis in the region. As demand soars in the Merriweather District and downtown lakefront, small businesses like Rudy’s are hitting pause on expansion. Tight inventory, low vacancy, and rising costs are fueling competition for prime space, especially among food and beverage spots. While national chains can absorb the price tags, local favorites may need to look elsewhere—or wait it out. ($)

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. . . Manor Hill Brewing 10 Year Anniversary Sunday, June 21, 12-7pm

Manor Hill Brewing is turning 10! 🎉 Celebrate a decade of farm-brewed beer on Saturday, June 21 from 12–7pm with live music, special beer releases, food trucks, new merch, and plenty of farm fun. Free and family-friendly!

Summer Concert Series at Hickory ridge VIllage Center
🎤 Soul, sass, and serious pipes! The Summer Concert Series at Hickory Ridge kicks off June 19 with the powerhouse Gayle Harrod Band. Expect blues, R&B, and big energy. Music starts at 6:30—don’t forget your lawn chair!

Lakefest 2025
Mark your calendars, Columbia — LakeFest is back and bringing the vibes June 20–22! Columbia Festival of the Arts and Merriweather Arts and Culture Center are teaming up again for this beloved free weekend of music, art, and family fun at the Lakefront. Now in its 38th year, LakeFest is basically summer’s unofficial kickoff party — and you’re invited.

This year’s lineup? Fire. Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Gaby Moreno is headlining, joined by Novalima (Afro-Peruvian beats), Sinkane (Sudanese American grooves), indie rocker Zach Person, and the genre-blending magic of Raul Midón.

As the music plays, 50+ artists will be selling original works, and the community umbrella exhibit returns — this year’s theme: “Bringing Unity to CommUNITY through the Sounds of Music.” You can vote on your favorites, and winners will be announced Sunday. Bring the kids for puppet shows, mural coloring, and face painting. Bring your appetite for Ekiben and other food truck faves. And yes — parking is free.

LakeFest runs Friday 5–10:30 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.–10:30 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m.–7 p.m. at the Columbia Lakefront. Full schedule here.

Juneteenth Celebration
Celebrate freedom and community at Howard County’s Juneteenth celebration on Sat, June 21 from 9am–3pm at the Harriet Tubman Cultural Center. Expect live music, food, line dancing, crafts, a yard sale, and more—all ages welcome!

Cookie Decorating Class: Passport to Flavor
🌍✈️ Sunday, June 22 from 4–6 PM, head to The Common Kitchen in Clarksville for a travel-themed cookie decorating adventure! Hosted by Live and Love Cakes, with global bites and sweet, wanderlust-filled fun. Make sure to get tickets, as space is limited.

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.

Nine HCPSS art teachers just got major props for lighting creative sparks in the classroom. From novice standouts to long-time legends, they’re turning glue sticks and paint into real student power. Thanks to a collab with the Maryland Art Education Association, their work is getting the spotlight it deserves.

Howard County is putting $2.25 million toward a new Sheppard Pratt residential crisis center in Elkridge. The 16-bed, 24/7 program will offer short-term care for people in crisis—keeping them out of ERs and getting them the help they need, right here at home. Completion is expected next summer. ($)

Howard County and tech firm Fearless are teaming up to support GovCon (government contracting) startups at the Maryland Innovation Center. The partnership offers mentorship, workshops, and scholarships to help local businesses—and displaced federal workers—navigate the complex world of government contracting and grow right here in Howard County.

A new police satellite office just opened in Elkridge’s Green Valley Marketplace, giving patrol officers a local home base. It’s all about more boots on the ground, quicker response times, and building real relationships with neighbors and businesses—especially around Route 1, the library, and shopping centers. Not 24/7, but definitely on the beat.

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89 🌡️ 72 | 🌨️ | 45% | 💨 NE-E 4-27 mph

86 🌡️ 67 | ☀️ | 0% | 💨 E-SE 3-18 mph

90 🌡️ 69 | ☀️ | 0% | 💨 N-E 3-15 mph

94 🌡️ 73 | 🌤️ | 0% | 💨 NE-E 2-16 mph

Walkers | Ali Tod 6pm
Morgan Inn | Joe Murray 6pm
Cured 1821 | Sara Jones 6pm
Merriweather Post | Keith Urban 7pm

Smashing Grapes | Jennifer Schimpf 8pm
The Blackwell | Keiron Brian Raphael 9pm
Morgan Inn | The Half Serious Band 8pm
Looney’s Maple Lawn | The New Romance
Bare Bones | The Objection 8pm
Collective Encore | Rolling Stones Tribute Show 8pm
Cured 1821 | Jon Waller 6pm

Smashing Grapes | Fred Moss 8pm
The Blackwell | Andy B 9pm
Morgan Inn | Homestead, The Band 8pm
Smashing Grapes | Jennifer Schimpf 8pm
Looney’s Maple Lawn | 7 Deadlies
Bare Bones | Quantum Leap 8pm
Sonoma’s | Remedy Band 7pm
Collective Encore | A Great Night of Sax 8pm
Cured 1821 | Gene Okonski 6pm

The Blackwell | Jennifer Schimpf 11am
Morgan Inn | Soul Family Band 2pm
Manor Hill Brewery | Mandy B 2pm
Cured 1821 | Sidestreet Duo 5pm
Merriweather Post | Mumford and Sons 730pm

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