NOW this, by Brenda
NOW this, by Brenda
Be Like Taylor
I’m not going to lie … this pandemic has me tired. Tired of making sure I have my mask before I walk out the door every day (and that my kids have theirs as well). Tired of sanitizing every time I touch something. Tired of keeping my distance from friends and family. My skin is cracking from washing my hands so much, masks seem to disappear on a regular basis now (has the sock-eating dryer targeted a new victim?), and I just want to hug people again.
For those struggling with “pandemic fatigue,” you’re not alone. However, being tired doesn’t mean you give up or give in. Keep those face coverings fashionable, folks. Be like Taylor and follow the advice listed on the signs which have been posted around town by our local Village officials. With those precautions in place, there ARE ways you can still have fun - safely. Dining out, special activities, shopping (NOT panic buying), and celebrating the change of seasons. Here’s a glimpse of what Miss Taylor and I have been enjoying around town …
SNOW SEASON: I can’t think of anything more exciting this time of year than hearing those snow guns at our local resorts firing up for the first time. It’s an invigorating sign that snow sliding fun is just around the corner. Visit one of our local ski/snowboard shops and get your equipment dialed in. Our local resorts are staying upbeat and continue to prepare for ski season, keeping a close eye on guidelines and regulations as they are updated by the state. If you haven’t purchased your ski pass yet, now is a good time to do so.
SOUP-to-SKATE: The Ellicottville Skatepark Committee, aka SK8EVL, which we are proud advocates for, hosted a really unique, community-driven fundraiser Nov. 8th. Originally planned for the end of March but cancelled due to COVID (story of our lives), Soup-to-Skate turned out to be a “SOUP”-er rad event showcasing handmade ceramic bowls created by school students and tasty soups donated by local restaurants. Organized in “walk-through” style, this event was a great example of how projects can continue to chip away at their efforts, even during a pandemic. To every single one of you who played a role in Soup-to-Skate - whether a donor or a bowl purchaser - Taylor says THANK YOU! We raised $4,700 which, when matched by The Skatepark Project/Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation, turns into $9,400 towards the construction of a permanent, concrete skatepark here in Ellicottville. Whoah!
NEW FLAVOR: Ellicottville Brewing Co. launched their newest location, EBC Tap+Bottle & Taqueria with a soft opening Nov. 11th. Inspired by owner Peter Kreinheder’s love for Mexico and EBC’s recent collaboration projects with the Falling Piano Brewery in Mexico City, visitors can enjoy authentic Mexican al pastor dining, plus a combination brew pub and carry-out bottle shop (coming soon.) “The idea of Tap+Bottle is not only an opportunity to focus on EBC and Empire Brands, but to showcase products from other brewers from all around NYS,” Kreinheder explained. “Our attention upon opening (once licensing comes through) will be brewers from the 5 Burroughs of NYC and the Hudson Valley. The Bottle Shop will allow customers to purchase all of these products not only for dine-in but also to take home.” U-Pick 6-pacs, single can, cases and growlers to-go will all be available.
Indulging in many of the Taqueria’s menu items during their soft opening, may I personally suggest the Creamed Elotes as an app (Mexican style roasted street corn in a light chile cream sauce with melted queso Cotija), and the Diego as a main course (Barbacoa style beef cooked in tomato and chili broth). Any of their tacos can be served in a bowl if you prefer. In other words, you’ve got options that will keep your tastebuds entertained. Located on Ellicott-ville’s main drag, EBC’s Tap+Bottle & Taqueria is open for lunch and dinner every day except Wednesday. Give it a try the next time you’re looking for a little escape from hermit-life. And don’t forget your mask! This virus has completely changed the way we do things, and it isn’t going away any time soon. Let’s buckle down, play it safe, support our local businesses and keep fighting the good fight.
Brenda Perks is the owner, editor and designer of ellicottvilleNOW and owner of DesignPerks, a graphic design company affiliated with the local media/marketing agency, PaNDaGOAT Media. You can reach Brenda at brenda@ellicottvillenow.com.
