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November 1, 2009

Longtime eatery invests in community

Tim Preston/The Independent The Daily Independent Sun Nov 01, 2009, 11:24 PM EST

Ashland — Doing business in downtown districts and investing in the community are serious commitments for the people at CJ Maggie’s American Grill.

“You have to credit the owner, Mr. C.J. Rylands. He is one of the kindest men that I’ve ever met. He likes being downtown and he loves being part of the community,” said Douglas Herron, general manager of CJ Maggie’s on Winchester Avenue.

Herron started at CJ Maggie’s as a cook six years ago and worked his way up. He said the restaurant’s staff is pleased with a recent first-place finish of a Hammered Pork entree in the Taste of Ashland competition, an event that supports the local United Way.

The restaurant also has an extensive number of school and community projects, from sponsoring cheerleading uniforms to providing meals at the nearby senior citizens center and pancake breakfasts on behalf of local charities.

“We devote our own time for the pancake breakfasts — the managers don’t get paid for that,” Herron said with a warm smile, adding his assurance such duties are welcomed as part of their business.

“We try to help with any projects for kids and schools .. things like buying uniforms and equipment. Mr. Rylands doesn’t say no to any worthy project,” Herron said. “He has spent thousands and thousands of dollars of his own money. Everything comes out of his own pocket.

“He has taught me a lot as far as giving,” Herron said, noting he isn’t simply saying good things about his boss, and is sincere in his admiration for the man.

In addition to the Ashland restaurant, CJ Maggie’s restaurants can also be found in Elkins and Buckhannon, W.Va., he said. A new CJ Maggie’s is under construction in Fairmont, W.Va., and should be ready for customers in 2010.

Each of the restaurants will share Rylands’ commitment to the place where it does business, Herron said.

CJ Maggie’s has been doing business in Ashland for about a decade, Herron said.

“Since I’ve been here I find there are wonderful people who come in,” he said. “I don’t consider them customers — I think of them as our friends and treat them accordingly. Many of them have been coming here for years and years. It’s sort of like ‘Cheers.’ People depend on this place for a place to sit, talk and eat. They know they will find peace of mind, a delicious meal and good service.”

Herron said anyone who hasn’t visited C.J. Maggie’s for a while should stop by and enjoy “the best staff we’ve had in a long time and much improved service.” The restaurant has always been known for serving generous portions in addition to an outstanding selection of beer, wine and other beverages. Time-proven entrees include the award-winning Hammered Pork and crab cakes. There is a selection of appetizers and vegetarian meals including sandwiches, pizza and pasta.

The restaurant’s distinctive interior and exterior features, he points out, are all hand crafted by the owner.

C.J. Maggie’s is open from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday (with bar service available until 1 a.m.) and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday.

For more information, call (606) 324-7895 and ask for Herron or assistant managers Jessie Zachary or Ashley Nichols.

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

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