The Clarksville Crossing Center is such a cozy, relaxing place to shop. It's slightly off the beaten path on Ten Oaks Road just around the corner from Route 108. Recently my daughter-in-law, Melissa Sanford, had her hair done there at Over the Rainbow Salon Spa. She loved it. They made her feel special.

Melissa suggested I go take another look as this was not the business I profiled in the past. Well, it is and it isn't. The spa is still there, but about 18 months ago, soon after the original write-up, new owners expanded into two additional shops with full beauty salon services. Business looks brisk and that's always a good sign.

Art Partners Framing and Gallery Inc. on the right-hand side of the center opened for business in November. Artist/Owner Barbara Sweeney, formerly of Forget-Me-Not in Sandy Spring, has joined forces with Mary Livingston, who does most of the framing, business manager Kathleen Brew and gallery manager Susie Duke to create a unique full service shopping experience.

The shop has a variety of services and gift ideas as dozens of local artists working in nearly every medium are represented. Hand-blown glasswork is created by Keith Daly, a Glenelg High School graduate. Some of you may be acquainted with Jewelry by Sherree Mazur. I enjoyed seeing pen and ink drawings by Bill Kreitlow reduced to note cards. Sweeney said Kreitlow also does watercolors. Life-like personality sculptures by Rick Rolyson are a "must see." Stop by the shop frequently as displays are continually changing.

The business is an active member of the Howard County Community Arts Council and always looking for new artists to support and encourage. You will be able to see their work at the Decorator Showhouse at Homewood Farm in September and October.

Art Partners will brighten the stairwell to the basement with custom mirrors. They also have a monthly artist showing and their services include digital photo restoration.

If you have an art object in need of repair beyond their level of expertise, the ladies will help you contact an appropriate conservator.

Framing is all done in-shop using wood frames and rag mats with state-of-the-art computerized equipment. Shadow boxes can be used to display treasured items.

You can find Art Partners on the Web at www.artpartnersgallery.com, e-mail artpartnersinc@gmail.com or call 410-531-5366. Better yet, stop in to take a look. You'll love it.

Think perky penguins and frosty treats. Think pick-me-up. Think Pepio's. That's the name of the new eatery in Clarksville Crossing. I tried Mango Italian Ice made with fresh mango and topped with a dollop of old-fashioned frozen custard. It was scrumptious. I'll be back.

Howard County owners Gene and Jenny Park have four children ages 12, 10, 8 and 5. As the business grows, the Park family workforce will grow into the task.

"If somebody comes here one time, they will come again," Gene Park said.

I think he's right. Everything is homemade and organic, as far as possible. There is also a shaded patio dining area to enjoy with friends.

What's on the menu? Pepio's offers specialty coffees, teas and smoothies, breakfast foods, soups, sandwiches, salads, pastries and cool treats. If what you like isn't on the menu, talk to them. If there's enough demand, the menu could expand. Even the hummus is homemade.

Jenny's favorite menu item is Clarksville's Best Salad with homemade balsamic dressing. Maybe I'll order the salad next time.

Julianne Mills is pleased to report a successful dog wash for military service dogs and their handlers. Dogtopia in Clarksville bathed more than 50 dogs and raised more than $1,000. Your support is appreciated.

Debbie Mangus provided a little update on Jersey Surf Drum and Bugle Corps. The Howard County participants were home for a few days before the "home show" in Wildwood, N.J. So far the Surf has been winning every competition.

Next, they begin a multi-week tour culminating in the finals in Indiana. Good luck, kids. Hang in there. The end of your grueling schedule is in sight.

Contact Darleen Sanford at clarksville21029@yahoo.com or 301-854-3624

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