Published: May 01, 2008 10:00 pm            

TIM PRESTON: You have the power

I’ve heard a lot of talk after my recent report about the possible future of the Ashland Boston Beanery, primarily saying “It would be a shame to lose that business.”

Simply put, if everyone who commented about the restaurant’s future presence here were to go and enjoy a meal there, there wouldn’t be anything to worry about.

If you’re looking for an excuse to get out this weekend, the Boston Beanery is now offering live music. Sonya Crites and Larry Whitt played there this weekend, and next Friday and Saturday will feature a performance by Chad Stanley, playing a mixture of alternative country and rock music from 9 p.m. until midnight.

Essentials for events

A few months back I wrote about the opening of a new downtown business called Event Essentials, and recently dropped by to see how things are going there.

Shop owner Kim Young said she’s recently added balloon bouquets to her inventory and is studying to become “ a certified balloon artist.”

“I know that sounds kind of goofy,” she said with a giggle, then explained the certification is actually a legitimate study program that has taught her advanced techniques to create elegant archways and other structures appropriate for weddings, showers, grand openings and other occasions.

Young also offers in-house printing for napkins and is certain she has more candy-making ingredients and equipment than any other business in the region.

“We now offer party packages for children’s birthday parties. Parents can pick out a theme they like for their child and we help them create a memorable party. We’ll even deliver the packages and set it up for them. That way, they can really join in on the fun of the celebration without the stress of decorating, packing treat bags, etc.,” she said.

Event Essentials, at 209 15th St. in Ashland, is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call (606) 327-8866.

A good read

Ever the gentleman, Jim Phillips of Grayson has for weeks been carrying around one of the few remaining copies of “Historical Views of Carter County” by Francis Nash, waiting for a chance to pass it along to me.

The local radio veteran handed the book to me Tuesday evening and I spent much of the evening getting an education about the people who settled there and the evolution of life and business in that area. I haven’t finished it yet, although I expect to have it read by this weekend.

I understand the author has few, if any, copies remaining, as it is an excellent resource for anyone whose family has roots in Carter County. I can easily understand why I received so many calls from people across the country who want a copy for themselves.

Nash gave away the first run of copies, and I suspect he could easily sell another batch if he decides to put the book into another round of printing.

TIM PRESTON can be reached at tpreston@dailyindependent.com or at (606) 326-2651.

        

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