I always like it when local business owners try to do something in appreciation of the community that has supported their operation, so I was pleased to hear that Rafael Rodriquez, owner of La Finca on Greenup Avenue beneath the big bridges in Ashland, has adopted $.99 Sundays for the restaurant’s customers.

“The Tri-State has been very good to us and we would like to help families, especially during the holidays, by offering special discounts on our food. Starting this week, Sundays will be known as $.99 Sundays at La Finca,” Rodriquez said. “After 2 p.m. all tacos and enchiladas are $.99 each with no limit. I invite you to come in, sit down and relax, watch your favorite game on any of our flat screen televisions, let us serve you our $.99 tacos and $.99 enchiladas all day until 9 p.m. every Sunday. And, as always, there is no charge for our chips and salsa when ordered with any meal.”

La Finca, whose official philosophy is “to serve the best, authentic Mexican food, fresh every day,” also offers catering service (with a discount to Ashland Alliance members). The restaurant also has a Grande Party Room free for any occasion, available with one week’s notice. For more information, visit www.lafincas.com or call (606) 324-2134.

Cutting for 98 years

I was going to include a note about brothers Carl and John Davidson, a pair of local barbers who’ve been cutting hair for 98 years (collectively).

After speaking with Carl Davidson, however, it quickly became apparent the brothers have more of a story to tell than I can relate in just a few sentences. Keep an eye out for their story in the days ahead. I assure you it will be worth reading and offer a few reminders of days gone by.

A good idea

I can’t claim any credit for the idea, although I am going to adopt the philosophy of a fellow reporter who is determined to do all of his Christmas shopping with local merchants.

Time is not on my side with this one, but I’m going to try to develop a short list of small businesses with unique gift items for next week’s column.

You don’t have to think about this one for long to come up with a few excellent ideas — golfers would certainly enjoy a pre-paid round or two at their favorite local course; nearly anyone would appreciate a couple of movie passes; and I’m pretty sure every local “mom and pop” restaurant will be happy to make arrangements for gift certificates.

If you know someone in need of self-defense training, go talk to the folks at the former Army-Navy Store on 16th Street in Ashland, or if you know someone who is “impossible to buy for” check out the inventory at Patsy’s or Holly B’s, also on 16th Street.

I’ll add more to the “local” list as I come across them, and welcome all suggestions from readers.

Smokin’ Butts

For the life of me I can’t remember where I ran into Mike Curnutte, (it was at the Flatwoods Homecoming) but he gave me a sample cup of the barbecue sauce he uses for his business Mike’s Smokin’ Butts Barbecue.

I put the sample cup in the fridge and nearly forgot I had it in there until my wife asked what it was. Once reminded I had the little spot of sauce, I tried it on several meats (including leftover Thanksgiving ham and turkey) and remembered writing myself a note about it. The note, along with a business card, was hiding between files in my desk. Unfortunately, my notes weren’t especially specific.

I can say the sauce starts out sweet and develops a nice little bit of peppery heat (without burning your lips off) as it lingers on your tongue — really good stuff.

Fortunately, Mike called back after I left a message for him and he remembered handing me that sample. He tells me the sauce has been growing in popularity as more people try it, and he’s now selling it for $6 per half-pint.

Mike specializes in smoked ribs, chickens, briskets and pork shoulders. He offers catering for parties, reunions or special occasions. For more information, call (606) 369-2240.

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