Valentine's Day is almost here. The usual flowers and candy are always a good idea, but perhaps you are like my son Dave, who likes to give people "experiences."
One good idea in that vein is a painting party hosted by one of Ellicott City's favorite artists, Wiley Purkey. On Feb. 14 at 2 p.m., Wiley is hosting a "Paint for Two" party that includes instructions for each couple on how to complete a painting — each person will paint half, and the two together will make a whole painting. It should be a fun event, with wine and snacks to share.
The cost is $70, inclusive of materials. Find out more on Wiley's Facebook page. There is only room for five couples to participate, so sign up soon.
Once your painting is complete, take it to the Still Life Gallery on Main Street. They are featuring Valentine's Day framing specials. If you aren't up to painting something yourself, why not take your favorite selfie of you and your sweetie and get that framed. Sometimes it's nice to see a special photo that's not in a phone.
When you visit the Still Life Gallery, be sure to pause and enjoy the window display, which is a work of art in itself, filled with winter scenes and lovely jewelry.
Open mic
Speaking of experiences, you need to get down to The Judge's Bench at 8385 Main St. on Feb. 3 at 8:30 p.m. for their open mic night. Audience members are invited to entertain with poetry, music and comedy. Sounds like a fun way to pass a cold night.
History for lunch
The Howard County Historical Society is continuing its series of lunch dates with history. These are held at the Museum on Court Avenue and are $5, free to members. The next one will be held on Feb. 6 at 11:30 a.m. and the topic is World War I. Bring your lunch and beverages will be provided.
After the lecture, guests are welcome to tour the museum. I know that Executive Director Shawn Gladden has been doing some major reorganizing at the museum, so it is definitely worth a visit.
The society has also announced the date of its next annual meeting. It will be held at the Miller Library on Sunday, Feb. 22, at 1 p.m. The speaker will be Tracy Melton, talking about "The Gangs of Baltimore." All members are welcome, and if you would like to become a member of this great organization, this would be a good time to join. Go to the website at http://www.hchsmd.org. for more information.
Chuck Joseph
I was very sorry to hear of the passing of Chuck Joseph in early January at the age of 56. Chuck was a great advocate for the Historic District, volunteering at the historical society and serving on the board of the Ellicott City Restoration Foundation.
I served on the ECRF with Chuck before it was disbanded and found that he offered a different perspective on many issues, mostly based on his experience as executive director of the Wheaton Chamber of Commerce. Like many local volunteers, Chuck was also a Civil War reenactor with a keen interest in local history. He will be missed.
County executive
Take the opportunity to meet and greet our new county executive, Allan Kittleman, on Feb. 3 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Miller Library.