The staff at Callihan’s American Pub & Grill at the Kyova Mall is set for a “soft opening” this week. Many people have been waiting for this one since the sign went up announcing the restaurant would be open by early fall of 2009, and there is tremendous expectation regarding the atmosphere, service and menu choices.

I’ll try to get by there for a meal sometime in the next few weeks and let you know what I think, but I’ve heard from several people who stopped by for a walk-through that everything about the place, particularly the second-floor mezzanine, is “first class.”

Callihan’s American Pub & Grill may open as early as Wednesday, according to the mall manager.

Nominees needed

One of my favorite events to cover each year is the big breakfast gathering for the Northeast Kentucky Small Business Awards because it draws a great group of people and I always learn something interesting about the local business community while there. They also feed everyone quite well.

If you know a small business person who deserves a little attention for their efforts, organizers encourage you to nominate them for one of several awards. They’re also looking for the names of local small business advocates (individuals who promote the interests of small business). Nominations will be accepted through March 5.

All nominees will be recognized during the annual awards breakfast. Electronic nominations can be submitted at www.nekysba.com or call (606) 329-8011 for more information.

On TV!

If you enjoy seeing local restaurants on television, watch for Huntington’s Hillbilly Hot Dogs on the Travel Channel’s “101 Tastiest Places to Chow Down” on Jan. 31.

Business owners Sonny and Sharie Knight report the hot dog business, which has been previously featured on The Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” will be listed in the Travel Channel show’s Top 20.

Hillbilly Hot Dogs has two locations, the original at 6951 Ohio River Road in Lesage, W.Va., and 1501 Third Ave. in Huntington, both loaded with atmosphere. A quick look at their menu is also entertaining, with more ways to cook and serve a weenie than I had imagined possible. The Home Wrecker sounds particularly challenging, and I think I would enjoy Stacy’s Flu Shot, which comes loaded with jalapeno peppers.

For more information or to place an order, call (304) 762-2458 for the Lesage location, or (304) 522-0044 for the Huntington branch.

New space

The King’s Daughter Occupational Medicine Department will be in a new location starting Monday with new space on the second floor at 336 29th St. in Ashland.

Patient care is provided by Paula Larsen, M.D. and David Bellville, P.A. and services include injury care, employee examinations and testing, drug and alcohol testing, respiratory and auditory exams and executive physical exams. The occupational medicine program works with area businesses to keep employees safe, healthy and on the job, and to manage health costs more effectively.

The new location has more parking and better customer access. The hours will remain the same, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and all phone and fax information will also stay the same. For more information, call (606) 408-4900 or (877) 327-4900.

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