Good Gravy!
Visit Ashland’s 5th Annual Gravy Bowl
Pamela Hall
Ashland Beacon
There’s nothing that tastes any better than biscuits and gravy, especially on a cold winter day. Most people would agree with that statement.
This weekend, area residents have a chance to sample various types of gravy at the 5th Annual Gravy Bowl. The event is organized by Visit Ashland and will be held at the Ashland Train Depot near the riverfront on Saturday, February 11 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door and allows those attending to sample the various types of gravy.
The Gravy Bowl has contestants from local businesses that make gravy to be judged, not only by those in attendance, but by a panel of secret judges as well. There are three categories: Sawmill Gravy, Country Gravy, and Freestyle Gravy. The secret judges will award the best gravy in each category and those attending can vote for their favorite kind. The gravy with the most votes by the attendees will win the People’s Choice Award.
“Sawmill gravy has meat, and country gravy does not,” said Courtney Hensley of Visit Ashland, explaining the difference in the categories.
“Freestyle gravy can be anything,” Brandy Clark, Executive Director for Visit Ashland, continued the explanation. “[In the past] we’ve had chocolate gravy, bologna gravy, blueberry gravy and many more.”
This year’s contestants are the Ashland Fire Department, Hillbilly Hibachi, Desco Credit Union, Members Choice Credit Union, Pig’s Blanket Food Truck, Ashland Daily Independent, Build Ashland, and Advantage Plus Realty. McDonalds will supply the biscuits.
Not only will there be delicious biscuits and gravy, but live entertainment as well. This year’s entertainment is Darrin Hacquard, William Metheny, and Of the Dell. There will also be a cash bar provided by The Mill, and Visit Ashland will have some large games for your enjoyment.
The Gravy Bowl is also considered a charitable event. A portion of the proceeds from the Gravy Bowl will go to a youth athletic team at one of the local schools. In order to be considered for the donation, team members must come and participate in the event by tasting the various gravies and voting for their favorite, and submit their team name for consideration.
The 5th Annual Gravy Bowl promises to be a great day of food, entertainment, and fun. What more could you ask for?! You won’t want to miss this event! As the Visit Ashland Facebook page says, “Don’t fumble this opportunity…”
“If you’re as depressed as I am that Joe Burrow is not playing in the [Big Game],” said Brandy Clark, “lift your spirits at this year’s Gravy Bowl. Come score a touchdown for your tastebuds!”
To find out about other upcoming events in Ashland go to the website, www.visitaky.com/calendar.