The W.R. Grace Fight Is Not Over

Good morning, Columbia.

In today’s Columbia Scoop:

Let’s get to it.

— Michelle Sinclair

Columbia, Maryland is officially one of the chillest cities in the U.S., landing at #153 (out of 182 cities) on WalletHub’s stress rankings. Thanks to strong incomes, stable jobs, and healthier living, Columbia’s keeping it calm—while Baltimore sits at #3 for most stressed cities. Less drama, more zen in Columbia.

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.

In a win for Columbia neighbors, Howard County’s Hearing Examiner sent W.R. Grace’s proposed plastics recycling plant case back for deeper zoning review. Residents and Councilmember Deb Jung called it validation after months fighting the facility near homes. The decision halts permits—at least for now. ($)

River Hill’s Roger He capped his senior tennis season as Howard County Player of the Year, finishing 18-1 in singles. A two-time state doubles champ, He dominated as a singles leader this year—focused, consistent, and always ready to outwork, outlast, and grow both on and off the court. ($)

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Anegada Delights just opened its second Howard County spot—inside the Circuit Courthouse! Expect Caribbean favorites like jerk shrimp mac, whiting sandwiches, and beef patties. Open weekdays for breakfast and lunch. Bold flavors, courthouse location, no weekend hours. Island vibes meet workday grinds. ($)

Something spicy’s coming to Centre Park Drive. Indian Bistro is set to open in a former Dunkin’ spot in Columbia’s Jonestown neighborhood. No menu or opening date yet—just a banner promising authentic Indian cuisine coming soon. Neighbors include Tino’s, Kokee Kitchen, and Popeyes. Stay tuned (and hungry). ($)

Dental Designs of Maryland is bringing its award-winning, doctor-owned care to Columbia this August. Known for blending cutting-edge tech with a personal touch, DDMD’s new Howard County office promises everything from cleanings to full smile makeovers—no corporate chains, just compassionate, patient-first dentistry. Appointments open online starting end of July!

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. . . Whispering Winds Pow-Wow, Sat and Sun 7/19-20 at the Howard County Fairgrounds

Get ready for two days of culture, crafts, and community at the 32nd Annual Whispering Winds Pow Wow, July 19–20 at Howard County Fairgrounds. Expect Native American dancing, drumming, delicious fry bread, handmade art, and family fun—all celebrating vibrant traditions past and present. Tickets start at $8.

Raise a Glass to Service: Four Branches Bourbon Tasting with Green Beret RJ Casey @ K-9 and Coffee Lounge
Thursday, July 17, raise a glass with RJ Casey—Green Beret, stuntman, and Four Branches Bourbon co-founder—at K-9 and Coffee Lounge, 5–7pm. Sip, swap stories, and support fallen heroes’ families. Free event, ages 21+.

Belmont Blockbuster Outdoor Movie Series
🐾 Belmont Blockbusters is back! Catch Clifford the Big Red Dog under the stars at Belmont Manor on July 17, 8pm. Family-friendly fun, fresh air, and one very big red dog.

Summer Concert Series @ Hickory Ridge Village Center: Guava Jelly
Bring the whole crew for a night of upbeat, family-friendly fun! Guava Jelly blends reggae, folk, and island vibes into the perfect summer soundtrack. Music starts at 6:30—good times guaranteed.

Lakefront Live Movie NIght
🎬 Friday night, 8:30pm: Wicked hits the Columbia Lakefront screen! Enjoy a free summer movie under the stars, courtesy of Columbia Association. Bring a blanket, grab some snacks, and get ready for magic.

Fairy Festival 2025 @ Clark-Elioak’s Farm
Step into the magic at Clark’s Elioak Farm’s Fairy Festival, July 19–20! Along with hayrides and pony rides, enjoy enchanted games, art-making, scavenger hunts, and fairy tales in the Fairy Forest. $8 farm admission—wings optional, smiles guaranteed.

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.

Howard County just flipped the switch on a new 3.2-megawatt community solar farm in Fulton. The Lime Kiln project powers 500 homes, features 5,000+ panels, pollinator-friendly landscaping, and even grazing sheep. Fully subscribed, it’s part of the county’s push toward clean, affordable energy and long-term sustainability goals. ($)

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Looking for laid-back vibes, fresh pizza, and local craft beer? Pub Dog in Columbia is your go-to. Known for their signature two-for-one draft beers, Pub Dog pairs crisp house brews with fire-baked pizzas made just the way you like. From classic pepperoni to bold specialty pies, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re catching the game or kicking back with friends, Pub Dog delivers great food, great drinks, and that easygoing atmosphere Columbia locals love.*

*indicates sponsored advertising content.

91 🌡️ 74 | ⛈️ | 45% | 💨 NE-E 5-25 mph

86 🌡️ 74 | ⛈️ | 35% | 💨 SE 2-15 mph

85 🌡️ 71 | 🌨️ | 55% | 💨 N-NW 3-13 mph

86 🌡️ 72 | 🌨️ | 65% | 💨 E-SE 4-25 mph

Walker’s | Jacob Panic 6pm
Bare Bones | Moonstone 7pm
Collective Encore | The Seven Wonders 730pm
Cured 1821 | Sara Jones 6pm
Reckless Shepherd | Felix and Fingers: Dueling Pianos 7pm

Merriweather Post | Old Dominion 7pm
Blackwell | Andrew Bell 8pm
Morgan Inn | Ramsey’s Ride 8pm
Looney’s Maple Lawn | Swarm of Bees
Bare Bones | Blue Line 8pm
Collective Encore | The Seven Wonders 8pm
Cured 1821 | Grant Langford 6pm

Merriweather Post | Rod Stewart 730pm
Blackwell | Rainy Day Matinee 8pm
Morgan Inn | NoWhere Fast 8pm
Looney’s Maple Lawn | Weird Science
Bare Bones | Escape Goat 8pm
Sonoma’s | Blue Line Band 8pm
Collective Encore | Disciple of The Garden 8pm
Cured 1821 | Ian Trushiem 6pm
Reckless Shepherd | Chuck Brown Band 9pm

Blackwell | Noah Pierre 2pm
Morgan Inn | Soul Family Band 2pm
Manor Hill Brewery | John Benjamin 2pm
Collective Encore | The Joshua Tree 7pm
Cured 1821 | Sidestreet Duo 5pm

Thanks for reading Columbia Scoop today. If you found something useful, please share it with someone who wants to live in a chill place.