Carter County clean up dumpster will be on the WEST END this week and open Wednesday through Friday (9/9 - 9/11) 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM

An Earth Day-themed art show is coming to downtown Grayson, bringing together regional artists, live music, and community involvement for an evening event this evening.

The Grayson Gallery & Art Center will host its annual “Celebrate the Earth” art show and opening reception tonight from 6 to 9 p.m. at its location on East Third Street.

Organizers say the event is part of the gallery’s monthly Final Fridays series and will feature a wide range of artwork inspired by Earth Day. Visitors can expect to see pieces across multiple mediums, with a focus on handmade works including sculpture, wood carving, and more from artists across the region.

In addition to the main exhibit, artwork from students in the Greenup County Homeschool Co-op will also be on display. The student showcase represents the culmination of a multi-week art series led by instructor Sammi Vanhorn, with young artists ages five to twelve participating.

Live music for the evening will be provided by Kentucky Memories, an old-time string band celebrating 20 years of performing together. The group focuses on traditional fiddle music rooted in Eastern Kentucky’s musical heritage, and will perform throughout the evening.

An awards presentation is scheduled to take place midway through the event, with several honors to be given out, including a People’s Choice award and additional selections by the gallery and sponsors.

Organizers say the event is free and open to the public, with donations and tips for musicians appreciated. Refreshments will also be available during the evening.

Gallery officials say the event is designed to highlight both established and emerging artists while giving the community a chance to gather and celebrate creativity in a relaxed setting.

Again, the “Celebrate the Earth” art show opening will be held this evening from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Grayson Gallery & Art Center in downtown Grayson.

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A day focused on Appalachian heritage, craftsmanship, and community is planned in Carter County as a regional festival returns to Grayson.

The Appalachia Kentucky Herb and Handcraft Heritage Festival will take place Saturday, May 2nd at Grayson City Park, bringing together artisans, educators, and food vendors from across the region.

Organizers say the event is designed to highlight traditional skills and local talent, with a wide variety of handmade goods available from vendors offering items like woodworking, quilting, jewelry, soaps, and other crafts.

In addition to shopping, the festival will feature a full schedule of demonstrations and hands-on learning opportunities throughout the day. Topics will include flintknapping, gardening and hydroponics, essential oil distillation, metal crafting, and other traditional and modern techniques rooted in Appalachian culture.

Free workshops will also be offered, giving attendees a chance to learn practical skills such as beekeeping basics, sourdough bread making, plant care, weaving, and herbal remedies. Organizers say these sessions are designed to be interactive, allowing participants to create and take something home with them.

A variety of food vendors will be on site as well, offering everything from casual meals to sweet treats, along with specialty items throughout the day.

Additional activities will include wellness services such as chair massages and oxygen bar sessions, along with educational displays focused on local history and regional heritage.

Organizers say the goal of the festival is to celebrate the traditions, creativity, and shared culture of Appalachia while giving the community a place to gather, learn, and connect.

Again, the Appalachia Kentucky Herb and Handcraft Heritage Festival will be held Saturday, May 2nd at Grayson City Park, with a full day of activities, demonstrations, food, and local vendors.

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Today marks the final opportunity this week for residents in Western Carter County to take advantage of the county-wide clean-up campaign, as dumpsters will be available at the Carter County Maintenance Garage along US 60 until 2:30 p.m. The Solid Waste Department reminds all participants that dumpster access has now returned to its regular three-day weekly schedule and urges the public to follow the updated disposal guidelines.

A number of items will not be accepted, including refrigerators, deep freezers, televisions, household garbage, paint, tires, and batteries. In addition, all items must be either bagged or boxed — loose trash will not be collected.

The Carter County Clean-Up campaign operates on a rotating schedule, providing disposal opportunities for both the eastern and western ends of the county. After today’s event, dumpsters will return to the maintenance garage in Grayson from April 29th through May 1st.

This valuable community service is made possible by the Carter County Solid Waste Department, who continue to support these efforts to keep our neighborhoods clean, safe, and beautiful. Let’s all do our part to keep Carter County looking its best.