Well, we still have a month left before the reluctant acknowledgment of summer's end begins to burrow its way in to our sun-kissed resolves. As most of us return home from our various warm-weather adventures, the annual habit of switching into post-summer mode begins. By that time, school will be back in session, Halloween merchandise will adorn store shelves, football season will again become the talk of towns (whether the NFL is in session or not), and most of us who live for the higher temps will begrudgingly hand over the reins to our cold-weather counterparts—who get more enthusiastic by the day.

Life is about patterns—it's about routine—but it's also about change, adaptation, and vision. This duality mirrors the seasons and seeps into our lives in a way that connects us all to each other, as well as the world around us. At Around Harrisonburg, we attempt to bring you the accounts of people and places that make this area special, and represent some of its most inspiring features.

This month's issue doesn't disappoint. We're going to take you behind the scenes at The Friendly City Food Co-op and Downtown Music 34—two of Harrisonburg's most innovative new business concepts. Writers Lauren Arbogast and Kristen Wright lift the lid off of two downtown hotspots that truly reflect Harrisonburg's vitality and ingenuity. Both businesses, while representing different interests, certainly adhere to similar models—a collaborative approach that includes, and almost relies upon, the community's involvement in order to evolve and thrive. As the ripple effect of the recession continues to find its way into ever-extensive channels, the emergence of business models that covet community interaction and partnership have begun to rise to the surface amid the growing strength of localized commerce. These two destinations are a perfect symbol of such a reality.

As we're inclined to do, we'll take you out for a meal or two. Our Unknown Eater sneaks a peek at Clementine, a groovy little joint where you can enjoy a great meal, and quite a bit more. Union Station combines unforgettable fare with a delicious touch of history. Both establishments are wonderful representations of Harrisonburg's culinary diversity, and must-visits as soon as you get the chance.

Hopefully at this point, you know we're just getting started. If you have financial questions, we can help you out. We'll also try to provide you with the latest real estate facts and figures. And Miss Rose returns to answer some of your most noteworthy inquiries. All of this, and a whole lot more. We can't thank you enough for your participation in this exciting journey. We wouldn't have it any other way.

Enjoy.

Michael Chalmers Editor
540-251-2180
mike@aroundharrisonburg.com
www.aroundharrisonburg.com
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