TLC logo TLC #1:  Feb. 25, 2001



 


 
ISSUE #1
 
Well, here we go - the first issue of the link between you and your hometown. It is our function to provide you with hard news, soft news, and just plain whimsy. Please be advised we (editorial "we") are not bound by any accuracy constraints. Nor will we pay too much attention to grammar and punctuation. Spelling I'm good at (words is my life), so you'll have to settle for that.
 
Shirley, the big bully, told me to explain TLC is The Lexington Connection (not network), chosen because of the double meaning, hereinafter referred to as double entendre. (I know if I misspelled that, I'll hear about it.)
 
First off, Lexington is undergoing a true renaissance (I have to quit using big words!). It's contagious, you know. When one person/firm does a facelift, often the neighbors follow suit. For those of you who haven't been here in a while, the old town looks good.
We also have a number of new shops, mostly of the antique variety, and some very good restaurants. Last week, for instance, an establishment by the name of Antiques & Uniques opened. In the back of the shop they serve deli sandwiches. It's in the location of the old Harry Smith men's shop.
 
This means that within walking distance downtown you have Maid-Rite (in our blood, right?), Hardee's, A&U, Zachariah's, Riley's Irish Pub, the Victorian Peddler, and two Mexican cafes. Dave's/Dragon/Den/TasteeLunch is closed, regretfully. But there are two more restaurants slated to open sometime in the future, one of which may be a steakhouse.
 
So we have plenty to eat, and it's good, but you cannot buy a pair of men's dress shoes in town.
 
Place's, which came in after Mattingly's, sold out and is now a Pamida. We have a Dollar General Store and a Family Dollar Store. And we have two grocery stores: Harold's and a Sav-a-Lot.
 
Our biggest anticipation is the proposed movieplex (7, 5, 2 or maybe 1 - I don't know) which is slated to go into what we now call the Franklin Hole. It is where the old brewery was. Across the street is a popular establishment (where Mr. Morrison had his bicycle shop) called The Coen Brothers (proprietors Louie & Don), where just about anything can happen. Reportedly they repair and refinish furniture, but sometimes they conduct classes, serve food and on occasion, drink, but they also serve up plenty of, um, conversation.
 
I'm certain many of you wonder about our old high school building. It's in very sad shape now, and certainly endangered, but there is a possibility it may have a happy resurrection one day. Talk is of a possible museum. Personally, I'm hoping for that but also think it would lend itself well to becoming an antique mall or a cluster of small retail shops. With a kitchen downstairs, a food court could be doable.
 
There was wonderful coverage on Lex during a recent Channel 5 (CBS affiliate) newscast, footage of the town, and an interview with our Economic Development Coordinator. The thrust was what will happen to our economy when the new bridge/Hwy 13 do not go through town (construction has begun, slated to open 2004). Signage and a pleasing downtown will be crucial, so that's in the works. We also have something like 7 B&Bs, most of which are Victorian theme.
 
We have a Habitat for Humanity house being built on Oneida (maybe Bloom, can't remember) and the recipient happens to be a member of my Methodist Church. Plans are to begin a Welcome Wagon program again, and a committee is interviewing artists to create a mural - maybe more than one - on a downtown building.
 
So that's how it goes in Lexington. Please send along news of your own and I'll include it. Also questions are welcome. I will provide answers, and we can just hope they match up. Until next time I am,
 
Your devoted scribe,
 
Susan
 
 
 



Links to other pages