Inner Child Café closing after short run in Ashland

After a year and a half on Oak Street in downtown Ashland, Inner Child Café will close its doors on Saturday.

"We just can't make the rent anymore," said Ramona Rubio, co-owner of Inner Child Café. "Unfortunately, we need to close our doors before our first day as a summer drop-off childcare center."

The family-focused business had plans to offer Camp Inner Child, which would have opened May 16. Parents signed up for the program will have to make alternative arrangements for summer care. The cafe will open from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday with free admission and everything in the café, from furniture to toys, for sale.

Inner Child Café has been a haven for parents and caregivers on rainy days. Children had a fun and safe place to run around and play indoors while adults could relax on comfortable couches or surf the Internet. The care center offered a pirate ship, castle and playhouses that entertained families that frequented or held birthday parties there.

Newsletters were distributed to parents who were surprised to receive the "Going Out of Business" e-mail sent Wednesday evening from owner/manager April Starlight. The e-mail stated that furniture, toys and "anything not tied down has to go." The e-mail also asked that if anyone is seriously interested in investing or sponsoring Inner Child Café to keep it open, they should contact Starlight before Friday at april@innerchildcafe.net or 482-9453.

On Saturday night, Inner Child Café will host its final all-ages dance party featuring FEVER. Doors will open at 10 p.m.