HUBA holding First Friday, cruise-in Oct. 7

The Hillsboro Uptown Business Association will be sponsoring the monthly First Friday even on Oct. 7, with a cruise-in around the courthouse square. 

"The Colony Theare had the First Friday/Art Walk the first week in September, and it was really successful," said HUBA board member Brent Huffman. "There were 250-300 people in the uptown area. HUBA is now taking over sponsoring and organizing the events, and we're trying to do something different each month, and have a laid-back atmosphere so people can enjoy what's available in uptown Hillsboro."

First Friday will be held from 5-8 p.m., with many shops, galleries and restaurants staying open late. 

"There are a lot of new businesses in the area and this is something to help people discover new businesses and to rediscover ones that they might not have been to for a while," Huffman said. 

During the cruise-in the first 50 cars will receive a HUBA dash plaque. 

Participating October First Friday businesses include the Acme Art Factory, Back Home Antiques, Beech Street on Main, Classic Realty, Eat, Merle Norman, Primtiques, Town Square Jewelers, Wanda's Grill, Vickie's Restaurant, the Four Season's Pet Shop and Pasquales. 

Nov. 4-5 HUBA will hold an uptown open house. 

"We're going to be doing 'Hillsboro Monopoly' where people can go to different businesses and get a sticker for each business, and we'll be giving away prizes," Huffman said. "The Holiday Parade is going to be Nov. 26 at 2 p.m. We're going to have an Uptown Christmas Dec. 2 with carolers, and a bell choir, and decorations in all the businesses. We're talking about having the art walk at least three times a year, and maybe doing it again in January. The first event was really a fun atmosphere, and we're trying to help people rediscover uptown Hillsboro."

HUBA is hoping to reach out not only to area residents, but people outside of Highland County as well. 

"In cities our size, there's not a lot of industry left, but we still have a lot to offer," Huffman said. "We need those people from Dayton, Columbus, Cincinnati to take an interest in what we have here, to come out, have fun, and spend some money with our local businesses."