The Grayson Gallery & Art Center is set to welcome the public to a special evening of art, music, and community this evening. The gallery’s volunteer board will host an opening reception from 6:00 to 9:00 PM, featuring nearly 50 pieces of artwork submitted by regional artists in a wide variety of styles and mediums. Many of the works on display will be available for purchase, and the GGAC Artist Market will also be open during the event, offering even more pieces and handcrafted items for sale. The gallery notes that this event is a great opportunity to support local artists and discover unique creations.
Entertainment for the evening will be provided by Gary Kesling of Garaoke Entertainment, with guests invited to take part in karaoke throughout the night. Additional musical and performance guests will also take the stage, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Around 7:45 PM, the gallery will pause for a special Awards & Announcements segment, where four cash awards will be presented to selected artists. Categories include People’s Choice, GGAC Board Choice, the Brandon Click Art Memorial, and the Pen Lady Award. Attendees will also receive updates on the gallery’s upcoming programs and events.
Light refreshments and water will be available to help guests stay cool, and visitors are encouraged to dress appropriately due to the ongoing summer heat. Henna tattoos by artist Maranda Knipp will also be available in the cooler market area for a small fee.
Looking ahead, the Grayson Gallery is planning an open-subject art show in July with live music by Redefyned, a four-piece rock band from Ashland, followed by a country music evening in August with Eddie Riffe & Friends. September will feature a dual artist exhibition showcasing the works of Synde Salley and Heather Foster, with music by Blue Sky.
To learn more about gallery events, volunteer opportunities, or how to get involved, contact Director Dan Click via Facebook or email graysongallery@gmail.com.
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The American Legion Family at Willard Post 342 is inviting the community out for a full evening of family fun, fireworks, and patriotic pride during the 7th Annual Willard Independence Celebration, taking place Saturday, June 28. Festivities kick off at 5:00 PM at 8904 South Highway 1 in Willard, where visitors will find food trucks, vendors, and a variety of free attractions for all ages. Activities throughout the evening include a petting zoo, inflatable bounce houses, giveaways, and door prizes. Local organizations including Pathways and VA/Legion representatives will also be on site to share resources and information.
One of the highlights of the evening will be a Flag Retirement Ceremony, scheduled for 8:00 PM—a respectful and meaningful tribute ahead of Independence Day.
Live music from Strange Brue will set the tone for the night, and as the sky grows dark, the celebration will close with a brilliant fireworks display sure to wow guests of all ages.
Admission is free, and all are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs, friends, and festive spirit to this community-centered event honoring our nation and those who have served it.
For more updates, follow the American Legion Family Willard Post 342 on social media.
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Today marks the final opportunity this week for residents in Eastern Carter County to take advantage of the county-wide clean-up campaign, as dumpsters will be available at the Carter County Maintenance Garage in Grayson with the closing time adjusted to 12:30 p.m. due to this week’s excessive heat. 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 along US 60 in Olive Hill for July 2nd and the 3rd.
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!