This Just In: Hampden is Eclectic!

Um, like, hi.

Miss me?

You probably all thought Hawker was dead, but I was just vacating.

But, Hawker's back, Hampdenites.

And just in time for the Baltimore Sun's Real Estate Section feature on Hampden! (If you subscribe to the Sunday Sun, you got the section with the article today. Otherwise, it's out tomorrow.) If a reporter can write a story about Hampden and not use the word "eclectic," I think Hawker's gonna award a prize.

The piece is generally a fluff piece under the title "Insider's Guide to Hampden." So, as an insider, here are Hawker's concerns:

1) The article glosses over culture clashes in the neighborhood. Allen Hicks talks about parking and schools when he discusses the "transitional" nature of the neighborhood.

2) The article states that "parking is a big issue in Hampden." Ok, people, parking is a big issue in Hampden if you are used to having reserved parking right in front of everywhere you want to be for your big fat SUV. If you've ever lived in a city, parking in Hampden is FINE. Try DC or Chicago if you think parking is tough here. For that matter, try Federal Hill.

3) The closest grocery store, according to the article, is The Giant. Umm. . . SuperFresh, anyone? The store that attracts folks from Roland Park and Charles Village?

4) My favorite: "With the exception of neighborhood bars and restaurants, Hampden doesn't have a bustling nightlife scene." Without bars and restaurants, what the hell makes a nightlife scene? In Hawker's humble experience, Hampden has a crazy nightlife scene. R2V? Frazier's? Frijoles? One of the best parts of living in Hampden is the sheer number of nighttime activities available within walking distance. There are plenty of bars & restaurants, a movie theatre, professional and non-professional theatre and First Fridays--not to mention the number of special events (readings, art openings, concerts, etc.) sponsored by local businesses in the neighborhood.

5) The only restaurant mentioned by name is. . . wait for it. . . Cafe Hon! Again, one of the great things about living in Hampden is the huge number of dining options steps from your door. Think about it: we've got Bella Roma AND The Dogwood.

6) Lastly, the "news" from the article (in case you haven't heard) is that in fall 2008, Robert Poole Middle School with transfer its students to Hampden Elementary, which will become Hampden School. Why putting troubled middle school students with younger students is a good idea isn't clear. What will happen to the vacated portions of Robert Poole Middle School (there is a public high school in some of Robert Poole) will be discussed in the new year.