AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler
Brought to you by Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu & Tai Chi
The blanket of snow and ice left behind by the January 25th storm that made our roads impassable for days and left creeks along the Magothy and Severn Rivers frozen over is still with us. Beautiful to behold, the wintry scene remained pristine throughout the week as frigid temperatures kept most people indoors. We were all grateful not to have lost power but snow removal for highways, roads and streets was a slow process and schools were closed for an entire week.
Those used to daily outdoor exercise, found the going rough on the B&A Trail as the surface was extremely slippery.
By week’s end, many of us were going stir-crazy. Neighborhood streets were somewhat clear but too icy for me to consider driving on. Luckily, family members rescued me from being a hot house flower. Taking to the highways, which were clear with the exception of an occasional ice patch, we ended up in Annapolis at The Bean Rush Cafe, a favorite gathering spot. Most of the tables were taken.
It was wonderful to sit with the sun at my back and a steaming cup of coffee to sip. Such a cozy spot from which to survey the passing scene.
I casually observed that, once New Years Day is over, not much happens during January so I had little local news to share. February looks more promising on the social front, however. My calendar is currently marked with several upcoming events that should be fun.
I also received an important update from Arnold Preservation Council director Elizabeth Rosborg regarding a possible Board of Appeals denial of approval for the plan to build a Chick-fil-A in Arnold. I share her comments with you now.
Update on plan to build a Chick-fil-A in Arnold
In her email dated January 29th, Rosborg shared the latest news about the status of the Arnold community’s appeal to the plan to build a Chick-fil-A off the southbound lanes of Ritchie Highway.
Here’s a link to our September 25th column on the appeal.
“Tonight, the Board of Appeals deliberated on our case,” Rosborg wrote. “The motion was made to deny the approval of the preliminary plan. Of the 5 board members in attendance, 3 voted to deny the preliminary plan approval and 2 voted to approve. I was so excited, I thought we had it. However, the other two absent members are required to vote. So, we will not know the outcome until the ruling is published in 60 days.”
Either way, she wanted to thank Arnold residents for supporting the appeal whether by donating to the legal fund, testifying in person before the Board of Appeals, posting signs in their yards or talking to their neighbors about the project.
“I, for one, am glad to have appealed,” she said. “To paraphrase Teddy Roosevelt, I am glad to have been in the area and fought the good fight…to make Arnold the best place to call home.”
Galentine’s Day events will soon be underway
Another reminder that BD Provisions invites you to join them on February 12 from 6 to 8 pm for their Galentine’s Sip & Shop. They’re partnering with other local businesses for a really fun event.
The Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber’s Successful Women In Business Galentine’s Party happening on February 12 from 4 to 5:30 pm will be hosted by Dr. Judy Yu of Dental FX at 8667 Ft. Smallwood Road in Pasadena. Meet other dynamic women for networking, libations and snacks and great door prizes. As February is Heart Health Month, Dr. Yu will explain how dental health is good for your heart. Free to members and first-time guests or $15 at the door.
Bohemian Black at 1915 Towne Center in Annapolis will host a Galentine Experience on February 13 at 5:30 pm. Rose Walker fans know she’ll pull off the celebration with style. There will be mini styling sessions, a charm bar and beauty bar, fashions to shop and other fun things.
Severna Park Community Center Health & Wellness Expo this Sunday, February 8
Severna Park Community Center invites you to join them this Sunday, February 8th from 12 pm to 3 pm for a FREE Health & Wellness Expo in the Andy Borland Gymnasium. You’ll be able to check out 33 healthcare related vendors and take advantage of a variety of free screenings and tests as well as free mini chair massages. For more information, visit Health & Wellness Expo | Facebook.
Jing Ying Institute celebrates the Chinese Lunar New Year
Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu & Tai Chi begins its celebration of Lunar New Year 2026, The Year of the Horse, with its Annual Cleaning Celebration from 5:30 to 7 pm on Monday, February 16. The celebration is meant to symbolically clean away any bad luck left over from the previous year and make room for good luck coming in for the new year.
Lunar New Year classes, activities and festivities will continue through the end of the month culminating on February 28 with a free Open House featuring a traditional Lion Dance performance at 3 pm followed by demonstrations of Tai Chi and Kung Fu forms as well as weapons. Entertainment, crafts, and treats are all free for families to enjoy. There will be several giveaways and contests to add to the fun. For more information or to register for the free Open House, visit Chinese New Year.
The Around The Park Again column is brought to you this week by Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu and Tai Chi at 1195 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd. – For over two decades providing martial arts training that improves cardio-vascular health, strength and flexibility while reducing stress. Jing Ying is again bringing Tai Chi to the Severna Park Community Center. From health-defense to self-defense, Jing Ying provides fitness with a purpose for the whole family!
and by Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services at 815 Ritchie Hwy., Suite 206 – When you need someone to lean on, Lean On Dee. Their experienced team of personal care management specialists and friendly companions provide high quality consistent care.
