Thursday, August 7, 2008

8/7/08 Beautiful Summer Nights, Kevin Proffit Not to Blame, Farmer's Market Destination for Hundreds





I always forget how beautiful those Bluemont concerts are until they return each summer. The weather was perfect this past Sunday. There was a sky full of stars and the bluegrass was so clear that even the cicadas in the trees stopped their chirping to listen. Train traffic was hardly noticeable, and the company of friends and neighbors was sweet and easy- just the way I usually find my town to be. I wished that I could scoop up the evening and seal it tight in a jar to open in February.


There are only three Bluemont concerts left, and your August will be considerably more enjoyable if you plan to be there. This Sunday, August 10th, John McCutcheon comes to town with his Grammy nominated folk songs. This is a great concert for families and kids, as John has produced several albums of children’s songs. The music begins at 7pm, but get there early to find a good spot to spread your blanket. Tickets are $5 for adults, $4 for Bluemont Friends and Seniors, and $2 for kids under 12. Become a Bluemont member and help keep these concerts coming back to Ashland. Visit http://www.bluemont.org/ for more information.


A note to George Stiles: Even though I would like to be able to blame Kevin Proffitt for leaving your name off the roster of the incredible Ashland Little League 10 yr old team, it is completely my fault. Watch this space for something to make up for it….


It appears that the word has gotten out on the Ashland Farmer's Market. Last Saturday, cars were parked down Thompson Street all the way to James. I would advise you to get there when it opens, as it was reported to me that the vendors are every last bean in their buckets. The Farmer’s market is open from 9 to noon Saturday morning, featuring local produce, flowers and plants, and live music. Behind Town Hall, downtown Ashland.


Register now for the 2nd Annual Tiger Trot to benefit the Henry Clay and John Gandy PTAs. The big day is Saturday, September 20th, with the children’s races (1 and ½ mile) starting at 8 am, and the 5K starting at 9am. You can register on-line at http://www.raceit.com/ , and there are special prizes waiting for the kids who complete the summer training program. If your child is interested, send an email to Tracy Brown at bob.and.tracy@comcast.net. P.S. The t-shirts are fabulous and are only available to the first 200 entrants.


Don’t let those “Back-to-School” sales fool you- there are several weeks left of summer. Resist the pressure to plan ahead and read a good book on your back deck. I thoroughly endorse laziness, and wish that I had more opportunity to practice it. Slow down, smile more, and take a walk around town after dinner. Call or email me with your Ashland news- 310-5320, or ashlandnews@gmail.com. Happy August.








It's a shame we didn't get any snow this winter...

Especially since we're building this new town ski lodge.  I mean, I guess it could potentially bring in tourism dollars, if we ...