The Grafton 123 celebrates one-year anniversary and serves the public a complimentary cup of coffee in appreciation of the ongoing support. The photo from left to right: Blanda Sparks, Cheryl Hicks, Mary Kay Stover, and Donna Hendrickson.

The Grafton 123 celebrated its one-year anniversary on Thursday, October 8, 2009. This day of celebration was a milestone for local owners Paul and Mary Kay Stover. Mary Kay would like to, “Thank all the customers for their support all year long, as well as welcome new customers.”

Customers received a free small coffee in appreciation of their support.

Their vision of creating an atmosphere where a local patron, or a weary traveler can visit and receive some hometown hospitality, in a friendly and pleasant environment, learn more about local history, enjoy local art, hop on the wifi, or spend an evening listening to music – their vision along with lots of hard work has become a reality. These are a few unique ingredients that set The Grafton 123 apart from other local establishments.

As you approach the building you get a sense of history from the old original building downtown, combined with the pride and optimistic outlook of having a business in downtown Grafton.

Through the boldly painted red door, visitors are hit with the aromas of yesteryear. The Grafton 123 takes pride in the selection of freshly baked goodies. Some of the treats to tickle your palate include: fresh bagels, mouth-watering muffins, gooey cinnamon rolls, cakes, cookies, pies, fab granola bars, sweet breads, and of course, made fresh daily white and wheat bread, just like Grandma’s.

Also available are treats for those with dietary restrictions (to include sugar-free and gluten-free), food allergies, or those that prefer a vegan or vegetarian diet.

To accompany these tantalizing treats, The Grafton 123 takes pride in the whole beans especially roasted to perfection, to serve a world-class blend of espresso, right here in Grafton. The espresso is made one cup at a time, and captivates a smooth, rich flavor that every coffee connoisseur would appreciate. Whether customers seek a hot or cold beverage, there is something for everyone.

The beverage menu includes drinks; such as mochas, lattes, steamers, and creamers, popular tea bags, organic teas, and the popular mochaccinos, and fruit smoothies- and the 123 makes their own whip cream to enhance any drink.

Recently, the menu has been updated and offers some 123 tried and true favorites, along with the introduction of some creative entrees. With the seasons changing the menu also offers some comfort foods for the new lunch special. This special allows the guest to order any two items, creating their personalized lunch. The items to choose from include: a side salad, a cup of soup, half of any cold sandwich, or half of a hot sandwich.

And with the holidays quickly approaching The Grafton 123, can help with the season’s demands, by catering the next event, meeting or party. In addition, the 123 now takes special orders and makes personalized gift baskets. These gift baskets are customized and sure to delight any coffee or tea lover.

Beside the already enjoyable space, The Grafton 123 has to offer, the new addition has slowly been evolving. Paul Stover who has been on site working diligently throughout the project says, “He has never worked as hard as he has in the last two and a half years.”

The additional space while rather large creates a cozy great room style atmosphere that beckons visitor’s to come in, sit down, and stay awhile. And if the warm inviting wall tones, or the display of work by local artisans wasn’t enough, the music is sure to captivate any music enthusiast. The musicians that visit may vary in range from the favorite oldies, to folk style, country, and even trendy interpretations.

The additional space, while still a work in progress, is available for reservations for events, meetings, clubs/groups or civic groups. Currently this space will accommodate 35-40 persons.

Once the balcony dinning area is complete, it will add additional seating and create an element of interest as it looks down into the first floor dinning room.

The Grafton 123 hopes that they have inspired and encouraged others in the community. Paul Stover sincerely expressed his gratitude when he said; “ I thank everyone for a awesome year, from those that get just one cup of coffee to those that make it a part of their daily routine.”

Stover explained that so many people have helped make a difference at The Grafton 123, from the employees past and present, to those that have worked on construction matters, or those involved in providing building supplies. Stover said, “It’s been cool, and Mary Kay and I would like to thank everyone for their support.”

For more information about catering, the catering menu, special orders, gift baskets, or days and hours of operation visit www.Grafton123.com or E-mail: Coffee@Grafton123.com