Wish You Were Here: A Night of Music, Laughter, and Purpose

If you’ve ever looked back at a special moment and thought, I wish I were there again, then don’t let this be one of those times. Wish You Were Here on March 8 at 7 PM in the Ashland Theatre is a fresh take on the classic variety show, blending live local music, comedy sketches, and storytelling into two unforgettable hours that will have you laughing, reminiscing, and feeling good about giving back.

A Show You Don’t Want to Miss

Taking center stage at the historic Ashland Theatre, Wish You Were Here brings together an impressive lineup of talent. From the soulful grit of Mackenzie Roark and the Hotpants to the blues-inspired storytelling of Sincerely, Iris—whose music was transformed by a handmade 4-string guitar crafted from an old Colorado license plate—this show offers a soundtrack as unique as the stories it tells. Little Tangents, an acoustic duo known for their nostalgic mix of 60s and 70s hits, will add another layer of charm to the evening, while the COTU Players bring comedy and theatrical magic to the stage.

More Than Just Entertainment

Beyond the music and laughter, Wish You Were Here carries a deeper purpose. A portion of ticket sales will benefit Paws for Purple Hearts, an organization dedicated to providing service dogs to veterans. And in honor of International Assistance Dog Week, the event will unveil a brand-new Paws for Purple Hearts informational video—highlighting the years of dedication and hard work that make their mission possible.

Get Your Tickets—Before It’s Too Late!

With a show like this, the only thing worse than missing out is hearing everyone else talk about how incredible it was. Tickets are available now at the Ashland Theatre, and for an extra dose of good fortune, you can enter a raffle for $5 tickets at www.ashlandvirginia.com/raffles. Proceeds from the raffle will support the Downtown Ashland Association, a nonprofit dedicated to keeping Ashland vibrant, thriving, and full of events like this one.

Make this a night to remember—don’t just wish you were here, be here. Get your tickets!

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NeeChic’s Tips for March’s Hiring Season

Anetra Bryd of NeeChic

March isn’t just the beginning of spring—it’s the hottest month for hiring! Whether you’re looking to land your dream job, impress the judges at the Center Street Pitch Competition, or simply refresh your style, your wardrobe plays a crucial role in making a strong first impression. With research showing that it takes only a tenth of a second to 30 seconds for someone to form an opinion about you, your outfit isn’t just clothing—it’s your personal brand.

Anetra Bryd of NeeChic is here to help you refine your look and step into success with confidence. Plus, don’t miss the chance to win a $150 Discovery Assessment to determine your body type, professional and personal goals, and style alignment—all while supporting Downtown Ashland Association’s mission. Read on for expert tips to help you shine!

Step 1: Cleanse Your Closet, Clear Your Mind

Before you upgrade your wardrobe, take inventory of what you already own. If you haven’t worn an item in six months, it’s time to let it go. Donate those "I’ll wear it when I lose 10 pounds" pieces and focus on keeping clothing that flatters your current body type. If you’re unsure what styles complement you best, NeeChic can help you identify your ideal silhouette.

Step 2: Styling for a Job Interview

Dressing well for an interview signals professionalism, confidence, and attention to detail. Aim for timeless, tailored pieces that communicate competence and credibility.

• Ladies: A wrap dress or pencil skirt paired with a structured blazer and simple diamond studs.

• Gentlemen: A well-fitted blazer, crisp button-down shirt, and polished shoes.

Bonus tip: Stick to neutral colors with a pop of personality—think a bold accessory or a statement tie to stand out in a memorable way.

Step 3: Seamlessly Transition Your Style Between Seasons

Spring weather can be unpredictable, but layering is your best friend. Invest in versatile pieces that transition smoothly from winter to spring.

• Swap out heavy coats for lightweight trench coats or structured blazers.

• Incorporate breathable fabrics like cotton and linen while still layering with cardigans or scarves.

• Opt for a color palette shift: move from deep winter hues to softer pastels or vibrant spring tones.

Step 4: From Work to Date Night—The Effortless Outfit Change

Your busy schedule shouldn’t stop you from feeling fabulous at every occasion. The key to going from office-appropriate to evening-ready is strategic layering and accessories.

• Ladies: Swap a blazer for a leather jacket and trade flats for heels. Add bold lipstick, statement jewelry, and voilà—instant date night glam.

• Gentlemen: Roll up your sleeves, ditch the tie, and switch out dress shoes for sleek loafers or stylish sneakers for a more relaxed, confident look.

Step 5: Authentic Style—Dressing as Your Best Self

Fashion is more than just clothing; it’s self-expression. Your wardrobe should reflect your personality, values, and lifestyle.

• If you love color, don’t be afraid to embrace it.

• If comfort is key, invest in high-quality, well-fitting basics that feel as good as they look.

• Confidence is the ultimate accessory—wear what makes you feel empowered.

Poatables at the 2024 Center Street Pitch Competition

Ace the Center Street Pitch Competition in Style

For those competing in the Center Street Pitch Competition on April 10, your outfit should match the power of your business idea.

• Dress one level above the event’s standard attire. Business casual? Go business professional.

• Choose clothing that allows you to move comfortably and confidently on stage.

• Stick with classic, well-tailored pieces that won’t distract from your pitch.

The Boldly Chic by Anetra: NeeChic Elevation Event

📅 Date: March 15th, 2025
⏰ Time: 4 - 7 PM
📍 Location: The Yellow House, 2601 Semmes Ave

Something bold is coming… and it’s all about YOU.
Join us for an evening that’s equal parts style, sophistication, and strategy. Hosted by the one and only Anetra, this isn’t just an event—it’s a movement to unlock your boldest, most confident self.

What’s in Store?

✨ A mini fashion show that will leave you inspired (and maybe a little jealous).
📸 Professional headshots to make your LinkedIn profile the envy of the feed.
💎 A big reveal you won’t want to miss (hint: it involves a logo and a whole lot of chic).
🍷 Sip, savor, and connect with fashion-forward, creative, and entrepreneurial minds over wine, light bites, and sweet treats.
🎁 Exclusive Swag Bags Await—Because You Deserve a Little Extra Glam!
💼 Oh, and did we mention exclusive investment packages? Because your future self will thank you.

Spaces are limited, and this is one event you’ll regret missing. Ready to elevate? Buy tickets!

Ready to Elevate Your Look? Enter the NeeChic Raffle!

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Want personalized guidance? Enter to win a $150 Discovery Assessment with NeeChic, which includes an expert evaluation of your body type, professional and personal style goals, and wardrobe alignment. The winner will receive an email from the Downtown Ashland Association on Friday, March 28.

Don’t miss this opportunity to step into success—whether you’re launching a business, landing your next job, or simply ready for a fashion refresh, NeeChic is here to help you look and feel your best!

Untold Stories Moves to a New Stage

2024 Untold Stories at Patrick Henry High School

For over a decade, Untold Stories has provided a powerful platform for Ashland and Hanover County residents to share their lived experiences. Now in its eleventh year, this cherished community event is making an important move to a new venue—Hanover High School. On February 23, 2025, from 4-6 PM, attendees will gather at 10307 Chamberlayne Road in Mechanicsville, VA, to witness firsthand accounts of life in Ashland and Hanover County during the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s.

This year’s Untold Stories continues the tradition of amplifying voices that highlight the complexities of race, segregation, community, and education. Through an engaging oral history format, local residents will share personal narratives that shed light on our region’s past, offering lessons that remain profoundly relevant today. The program culminates in a stirring gospel choir performance led by Bubba Johnson, ensuring that the evening resonates not just in words, but in song.

A collaboration between the Downtown Ashland Association, Ashland Museum, Hanover County Black Heritage Society, and Hanover Arts and Activities Center, Untold Stories is a testament to the power of community partnerships. These organizations have come together once again to ensure that the voices of the past continue to inform and inspire future generations.

Ideal for adults and middle to high school-aged children, this free event welcomes all who wish to engage with history in a meaningful way. Past programs have left a lasting impact on attendees, and recordings of previous Untold Stories programs are available for purchase at the Ashland Museum for those who wish to explore the event’s rich history.

Join us as we gather as a community to listen, reflect, and celebrate the voices that have shaped Ashland and Hanover County. Mark your calendars for February 23, and experience the power of Untold Stories—a history not just told, but truly felt.

Golden Taste of Ashland Grows!

Golden Taste of Ashland winner at RefunkIt who later exchanged their gold ticket for a meal at Homemades by Suzanne

The Golden Taste of Ashland has taken downtown by storm, and thanks to overwhelming community support, the excitement isn’t slowing down! Due to the incredible enthusiasm from locals and visitors alike, additional chocolate bars are being added to the mix—two of which contain a coveted Golden Ticket. That means five golden tickets are still waiting to be discovered!

The Golden Taste of Ashland is more than just a chocolate bar—it’s a love letter to the town’s vibrant business scene. Generously donated by 110 Thompson and Downtown Ashland Association (DAA), each bar has been printed with passion by Minuteman Press of Ashland and hand-wrapped with care, thanks to the dedication of DAA and Ashland Dance Academy’s (ADA) dance moms.

2023 Taste of Ashland

Originally, the Taste of Ashland was a one-night event where Ashland’s chefs gathered in a downtown event space to showcase their farm-to-fork meals. Though the event was an undeniable delicious delight, Downtown Ashland Association’s Director of Operations, Lou Keeton, was concerned about winter weather snowing out a single-night event. She also wanted to do more than showcase restaurants—she wanted participants to physically visit stores and restaurants to see firsthand why Ashland is the Center of the Universe. “We didn’t want the Taste of Ashland just to be a snack—we wanted to give participants a whole Center of the Universe meal!” While Downtown Ashland Association collaborated with downtown businesses, Colette Maranda suggested adding chocolate bars to the recipe.

Colette Maranda of Ashland Dance Academy initially envisioned a town-wide contest inspired by Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The Downtown Ashland Association (DAA) took her vision and blended it with the Taste of Ashland to create a truly sweet celebration of local businesses.

“It is always fun to have magic in the town,” says Maranda. “And this magic collaborates with so many downtown Ashland businesses and really reaches all ages of our community. Our studio has already sold out of two baskets of chocolates!”

Golden Taste of Ashland winner at Ashland Dance Academy

Then, Lou from DAA and Colette from ADA joined forces and brought the sweet idea to Minuteman Press of Ashland. “They came up with the Taste of Ashland campaign and needed help bringing the wrapper design to life,” says Caroline Sweeney, owner of Minuteman Press of Ashland. “We love sponsoring events like this that bring the community together if it's something we can support at the time.”

The magic of the event is undeniable. Maranda recalls witnessing the excitement firsthand: “One of our little dancers was a golden ticket winner! Her excitement over finding a golden ticket was so fun to witness! There was definitely a lot of jumping around and giggles! She cashed her ticket in at Tiny Tim’s Trains and Toys and had a super fun shopping spree.”

Sweeney also experienced the joy of the campaign firsthand: “My partner and I went to the kickoff event at Ash and Olive and witnessed the very first golden ticket winner! The winner was the cutest little girl with a fabulous outfit and purse on. She presented her wrapper to the lady at the register, happy as can be. Everyone who experienced this moment together couldn’t help but smile. I couldn’t help but think about the scene in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory where Grandpa Joe gets up and busts a move in joy.”

With more bars hitting shelves and additional Golden Tickets up for grabs, the adventure continues. Proceeds from the Golden Taste of Ashland directly support Downtown Ashland Association’s mission to keep the town buzzing with unforgettable events and experiences.

Golden Taste of Ashland winner at the Ash & Olive launch party

“I hope it raises a good amount of funds to support the incredible Ashland events that Downtown Ashland Association sponsors,” Maranda adds. “I also hope it draws up extra foot traffic in our local businesses.”

Sweeney shares a similar vision: “I hope the Golden Taste brings businesses together by sharing involvement in a campaign and helps grow the awareness of the absolute beauty that all these businesses have to offer. I'm newer to the Ashland area and can't wait to go back to Ash and Olive and try their appetizers and pizza after experiencing a happy hour there.”

Bars are available while supplies last at participating local businesses. Whether you’re indulging in a chocolatey treat, supporting downtown Ashland, or hoping to uncover a golden surprise, now is the time to grab your Golden Taste of Ashland bar. Will you be one of the lucky winners? Learn more at www.ashlandvirginia.com/taste

Entrepreneurs Compete for $35,000 in Prizes

Dominion Energy Innovation Center Executive Director Adam Sledd with 2024 Center Street Pitch Competition panelists.

The Dominion Energy Innovation Center (DEIC) and Downtown Ashland Association (DAA) are thrilled to announce the return of the Center Street Pitch Competition, a dynamic event designed to empower local entrepreneurs and ignite innovation. Set to take place on April 10, 2025, at the historic Ashland Theatre, this competition provides an exciting platform for aspiring business owners to present their ideas and compete for over $35,000 in prizes.

Encouraging Innovation, Strengthening Community

"The Center Street Pitch Competition is an incredible opportunity not just to support local entrepreneurs financially but to come together as a community to celebrate their innovative ideas," said Lou Keeton, Director of Operations with Downtown Ashland Association.

Now in its tenth year, the competition continues to drive economic growth by providing early-stage capital to promising businesses. "Through the Center Street Pitch Competition, we're celebrating ten years of empowering local entrepreneurs and igniting their innovative spirit with early-stage capital," said Adam Sledd, Executive Director of DEIC. "This year is particularly exciting as we partner with the Downtown Ashland Association to increase the prize pool and focus on a diverse set of Main Street businesses that make Ashland and Hanover a thriving community."

Who Can Compete?

Local entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply for a chance to win up to $10,000 in prizes. The competition will award winners in three categories:

All entrepreneurs in all industries are welcome to apply, with selection favoring SWAM businesses.

APPLY

Center of the Universe Business:

Open to businesses located within the Ashland Main Street District. First place wins $10,000, second place $5,000, and third place $2,500. The first-place winner also receives a complimentary Downtown Ashland Association membership.

APPLY

Hanover and Beyond Business:

Open to businesses in the Town of Ashland, Hanover County, and the greater Richmond Region. First place wins $5,000, second place $2,500, and third place $1,500, with the first-place winner also receiving a DEIC membership.

APPLY

Agriculture & Forestry Business:

to farm and forestry businesses in Hanover County and the greater Richmond MSA. First place wins $5,000, second place $2,500, and third place $1,500, with the first-place winner also receiving a DEIC membership.

APPLY

How to Apply: Entrepreneurs can apply by completing a brief application and submitting an executive summary of their business plan. Applications are due by 5 PM on March 19, 2025. Apply today!

Event Details: The Center Street Pitch Competition will be held on April 10, 2025, at the Ashland Theatre from 6 PM – 8 PM. Doors open to the public at 5:30 PM, and attendees are encouraged to come and cheer on local entrepreneurs as they showcase their innovative business ideas.

This competition is a testament to the ongoing commitment of DEIC and DAA to support small business owners with mentorship, networking, and education year-round. For more information and to apply, visit www.ashlandvirginia.com/pitch