As July draws to a close, our community has begun highlighting its final summer activities.

The free Sykesville Concerts in the Park series will end mid-August but continues July 30 with oldies band Pet Rock performing hits from the 1960s to today. You can listen to a preview of their songs at www.gigmasters.com/Oldies/PetRock.

Concerts run from 7-9 p.m. at Millard Cooper Park, with parking at Sykesville Middle School, and the park's lighted playground provides pint-sized entertainment during the concerts. Additionally, the snack bar will be open to serve up treats such as Chick-fil-A sandwiches, Hoffman's ice cream, hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, candy and beverages. Pets and alcohol are not permitted.

For directions to the park, go to www.mdparty.com/sykesvilleconcerts.

During the month of August, the Howard County Conservancy offers its last two preschool programs. Children ages 3-4 can participate in "What's Bugging You?" on Tuesday, Aug. 3 and "Terrapin Time" on Aug. 17. Both sessions run from 10-11:30 a.m. and include a story, a craft, and a short hike. The cost for each is $5.

To register, go to www.hcconservancy.org, or call 410-465-8877.

Meanwhile, bigger people may enjoy "Star Gazing in the Wee Hours: Perseids Meteor Shower," a free program scheduled for Aug. 12 at 10 p.m.

The Perseids meteor shower occurs every summer, and this year, viewers may spot the heavenly light show anytime between July 23 and Aug. 22. However, the Conservancy's program takes place during the peak viewing period.

Dr. Alex Storrs, a Towson University astronomy professor, will discuss the event and answer participants' questions. Make sure to bring a blanket or chair and a flashlight, but prepare to meet indoors instead if the evening brings rain.

Finally, on Aug. 14, entomologist Richard Orr will lead the Conservancy's free monthly Wonder Walk, entitled "Changes in Our Insect Populations: What's Happening?" The walk begins at 10 a.m.

You can find the Howard County Conservancy at 10520 Old Frederick Road (Rt. 99), in Woodstock.

Bon Secours Spiritual Center has also announced its August lineup, beginning with several free or low-cost offerings:

* "Care for the Caregiver," Aug. 7, 9-11 a.m. and Aug. 18, 6:30-8:30 p.m.; suggested donation: $15 (or what participant can afford). Caregivers will receive much-needed comfort and spiritual support during this low-key time of personal sharing.

* "Keep the Spirit Up - A Day for Job Seekers and Career Changers," Aug. 13, 9 a.m.-3:15 p.m.; cost: free (donations appreciated). This program provides guided reflection and job skills workshops for those in the midst of a career transition.

* "Music at Marriottsville," Aug. 15, 3 p.m.; cost: free (donations appreciated). The Nonesuch Mandolin and Guitar Trio (sites.google.com/site/nonesuchtrio) will provide an eclectic mix of "comfort food for the ears" in the intimate setting of the Bon Secours chapel.

BSSC also offers several retreats and workshops during August:

* "The Kingdom or Reign of God: Jesus' Extreme Makeover for the Life of the World," Sun., August 1-7; cost: $575 ($150 deposit). Friar Phil Cover will guide participants in a silent retreat that studies the teachings of the Sermon on the Mount.

* "Women's Wellness Weekend," Aug. 13-15; cost: $225 ($50 deposit). This weekend retreat, under the leadership of executive coach and facilitator Sharon Keys Seal, aims to bring women of diverse backgrounds together and introduce them to a variety of holistic care possibilities.

* "Learning the Stories of God's Dream," Aug. 15-20; cost: $550 ($150 deposit). Using the parables of Jesus, Dr. Thomas Little, executive director of BSSC, will lead participants in an exploration of God's hopes for mankind.

* "Compassion in the Carmelite Tradition," Aug. 21, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; cost: $55. Sister Patricia Parachini continues the Center's year-long look at compassion with a study of St. Teresa of Avila's approach to prayer, care, and compassion.

* "Praying with the Mystics: Our Holy Women and Men," Aug. 22-27; cost: $550 ($150 deposit). During this silent retreat, Brother Michael Laratonda will help participants access the mystics within themselves.

Don't forget that the 95th annual Woodstock Festival takes place at St. Alphonsus Rodriguez Catholic Church Aug. 14, 3-7 p.m., and Aug. 15, 1-5 p.m. The family-style meal will feature fried chicken, ham, homemade potato salad, coleslaw, string beans, local corn on the cob, Maryland tomatoes, applesauce, iced tea and coffee, plus desserts for an additional charge.

Tickets cost $12 for adults and $6 for children 11 and younger; call 410-461-5267 for more information. The church address is 10800 Old Court Road, in Woodstock.

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