The best sign I've seen in the historic district recently was the one on the door of Yates Market that said "We're not closing."

Rumors swirled around town for a few days that the oldest business on Main Street was closing for good. I made a bee-line to the shop and talked to Betty Yates Jacobs herself, to get the real story.

Fortunately she told me that while they are downscaling their goods and services they won't be closing. So, all of us will still be able to get our Pfefferkorn coffee, ground in the ancient bean grinder, and the homemade sage sausage that is such a Thanksgiving tradition in our house, and even get a chair caned if we need to -- Betty does beautiful work. When you are next in the area, stop in and give Betty a shout-out for continuing her family's 125 year-old tradition. She works hard and she deserves it.

Show House Shopping

The Historic Ellicott City Inc. Decorator Show House search committee is currently visiting properties for consideration for the 2010 event, to be held in September and October. If you have a house (with on-site parking) you would like the group to consider, call them at 410-461-6908 to set up an appointment.

Valentine's Day

With Valentine's Day on a Sunday this year, you might be looking for something special to do in the afternoon, rather than wait for dinner that evening. One romantic choice would be an elegant tea at Tea on the Tiber located at 8081 Main St. in a historic granite building with a view of the river behind. The menu sounds delightfully British, with scones with clotted cream and lemon curd, among other things. The cost is $45 per person, and advance reservations are required. Call them at 410-480-8000. Another good choice in town is Tersiguel's, which will offer a special chef's menu at both lunch and dinner. Call them at 410-465-4004 to reserve. Or, if we're enjoying one of those breaks in the weather that sometimes happens around now, make it simple by going to the Little French Market in Tongue Row and picking up a fancy coffee and pastries to enjoy at the picnic table just outside by the river.

Mardi Gras Magnifique

My husband, Tom, and I are looking forward to a long weekend this spring in New Orleans, so I was glad to see that the Ellicott City Restoration Foundation is again sponsoring the traditional Fat Tuesday Mardi Gras Magnifique -- what better way to get in the mood for a visit to where the good times always roll. Even if you don't have travel plans, this event is sure to lift your winter spirits, while benefiting some worthwhile organizations. This year's event will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 16, from 6:30 to 10 p.m. at the Rumor Mill Fusion Bar and Restaurant in Tiber Alley. They will be offering New Orleans-themed specials and drinks along with their regular dinner menu. Proceeds benefit the Ellicott City Restoration Foundation, the Howard County Center for African American Culture, and the Howard County Historical Society's New History Center (due to open in 2011 as part of the Miller Library expansion.) For reservations, call 410-313-3000.

More Spirits

The Howard County Tourism Council has found a new way to keep warm through the winter months by offering a "Spirits of Ellicott City" tour on the second Thursday of each month. Participants must be over 21, and will visit at least four ghost haunts, with the opportunity to purchase drinks at each. The last stop is the Wine Bin, where visitors will be treated to 4 one-ounce glasses of wine. Sounds like a lot of fun. Call 410-313-3000 for reservations.

E-mail news and events taking place on Main Street to janetkusterer@juno.com.

user comments (1)

user kay2838 says...

I was delighted to learn about Yates Market, first in Mary P's article and now in your blog. Am planning a new blog feature that will say more about Duane H. and the upholstery side of things. Betty "canes" I know and is certainly able. Kay W

Posted 7:06 AM, 02.15.10 | Permalink