Stars Hollow Has a Twin in the Heart of Virginia

Take a stroll down Thompson Street or hop off the Amtrak, and you might do a double-take. Neighbors and travelers alike are whispering the same thing: downtown Ashland feels just like Stars Hollow. From quirky shops to beloved eateries, this charming town exudes the warmth, humor, and community spirit that made Gilmore Girls’ fictional town so unforgettable.

Henry Clay Inn (114 N Railroad Ave)

Begin your Ashland adventure at the Henry Clay Inn (114 N Railroad Ave), where luxurious accommodations and friendly smiles make guests feel right at home. You might hear a playful request floating through the halls: “I’d like a cookie and a raise.” Much like Lorelai managing the Dragonfly Inn, the Henry Clay is a place where dreams meet hospitality—and every stay feels like a story unfolding.

Just a block away, Ash and Olive embrace the town’s sweet and savory side. With a menu built for comfort and delight, it’s easy to imagine a resident declaring, “It’s one of my four major food groups. Candy, popcorn, and pizza.” In Ashland, as in Stars Hollow, food isn’t just sustenance—it’s a reason to gather, laugh, and celebrate the small joys.

For those inspired to twirl, leap, or take a spontaneous jazz break, Ashland Dance Academy (110 Thompson St) is the town’s Miss Patty’s School of Ballet. Offering yoga, ballet, tap, and jazz, it’s where Ashland’s brightest stars shine, proving that “it’s moments like this that make life worth living,” just as the Gilmore Girls themselves would agree.

Ashland Meat Co (107 S Railroad Ave, Ashland, VA 23005)

Over at Ashland Meat Co, every plate is a declaration of dedication. Guests might echo the sentiment, “It’s not too much food. This is what we’ve been training for our whole lives. This is our destiny, this is our finest hour.” It’s a reminder that, whether you’re enjoying a perfectly grilled steak or a casual dinner with neighbors, Ashland honors the art of savoring life’s best moments.

Sweet tooth enthusiasts and pastry admirers will find their heaven at Bravo Bake Company (278 N Washington Hwy), where the rule is simple: “If eating cake is wrong, I don’t want to be right.” From buttery croissants to decadent cakes, every bite is a little indulgence reminiscent of a Stars Hollow afternoon filled with conversation, laughter, and perhaps a dash of mischief.

Book lovers, rejoice—Ashland Library (201 S Railroad Ave) offers the perfect Lorelai-and-Rory moment: “I live in two words. One is a world of books.” Step inside, and each shelf feels like its own paragraph in the story of Ashland, a place where imagination, knowledge, and community meet. Like the Stars Hollow library, it’s a quiet haven, full of discovery, inspiration, and endless charm.

Classic Coffee, Tea, and Books (112 Thompson St)

For a taste of the town’s musical and seasonal spirit, the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion (121 Thompson St) provides rocking chairs, live music, and porch displays that could rival any Stars Hollow gazebo. Local sponsor Foliage LLC by Richard Harding transforms this space into an autumnal wonderland, perfect for spontaneous sing-alongs or a heartfelt “You’re the best” moment with a friend.

Foodies will be delighted at Caboose Market and Cafe (108 S Railroad Ave), where farm-to-table fare could easily make a diner jealous. Move over, Luke; the sandwiches are only the beginning. And just around the corner, Classic Coffee, Tea, and Books (112 Thompson St) invites visitors to linger with a steaming cup and a good read—a cozy nook perfect for an “I just want coffee” moment, reminiscent of Stars Hollow Books’ charm.

Venture to Hickory Creek Antiques (427 England St), a treasure trove of over 40 vendors, and you might find yourself declaring, “I’ll take that!” From antiques to local art, it’s a place that captures the delightful unpredictability of Stars Hollow’s town shops. And for Italian cuisine lovers, IL Forno Bar & Grill (435 England St) offers flavors so authentic you might hear Lorelai sigh, “I’m not a pastry chef,” in admiration of the homemade pasta and sauces. Finally, at Sugar Fix Bakery (105 B England St), cookies are the main attraction, and one taste may leave you in a playful, “I’m in a cookie coma” bliss.

From morning coffee to evening strolls, Ashland proves that small-town charm never goes out of style. As neighbor and Downtown Ashland Association Executive Director “Coach” Antonio Miller says, “You haven’t really lived until you’ve been Gilmored in Ashland!” Whether you’re discovering hidden gems, sharing a laugh with neighbors, or simply soaking in the quaint streetscape, Ashland is a town where every visit writes its own story—one filled with warmth, whimsy, and that unmistakable Stars Hollow spirit.

For more information about visiting downtown Ashland, Virginia, go to https://www.ashlandvirginia.com/

Happy Hour Vibes Serves Up Laughter, Mocktails, and Local Flavor Across Central Virginia

The latest episode of Happy Hour Vibes on K101.2 POP Richmond poured out laughter, networking, and a healthy dose of community pride during its October Recording and Networking Party—featuring some of Central Virginia’s most creative entrepreneurs and small business leaders.

Over Shaken Not Spurred’s mocktail of the month—the Minted Mare—guests were challenged to dive into six red solo cups, each filled with a classic party game and a twist of local flair. Whether tossing pong balls, crafting elevator pitch rhymes, or confessing marketing mix-ups, attendees couldn’t help but laugh, sip, and connect.

Listeners are invited to sip along and laugh along every Thirsty Thursday at 6 PM on K101.2 POP Richmond, learning how to make the featured mocktail of the month and a meal to match from Gianna Does It All’s very own Chef Gianna Stanley.

“Happy Hour Vibes is where business, creativity, and laughter meet,” said Barry Farmer, co-host and representative of the Farmer Media Company, a proud in-kind gold sponsor of the show. “It’s a place for neighbors to network, celebrate local events, and cheer on what makes Central Virginia so vibrant.”

🍹 Local Flavor Takes the Mic

This month’s guests brought the flavor, creativity, and community spirit in a way only Central Virginia can. Homemades by Suzanne set the tone as both guest and food sponsor, serving up their signature pimento cheese spread and dessert selections that had everyone swooning—especially producer Barry Farmer, who happily claimed a lemon tart or two off-mic. The team gave listeners a mouthwatering preview of their upcoming Thanksgiving menu, a full holiday feast made with love and the comfort of a home-cooked meal—just like the downtown Ashland favorite has always been known for. Their holiday tea parties in the John Marshall Ballroom and right in the Center of the Universe promise to be a highlight of the season, and their “Very Important Pup” seating—with pup plates, toys, and proceeds benefiting the Hanover Humane Society—makes it clear that Homemades by Suzanne knows how to serve up heart with every bite.

Things got spicy when RVA Wing Wars joined the table to talk about their annual showdown on October 18 at Triple Crossing Beer in Fulton, where twenty restaurants will compete to prove who truly has the best wings in the region. Of course, the Downtown Ashland Association is cheering for hometown heroes Ashland Sports Page, whose wings have a loyal following of their own. In true Happy Hour Vibes fashion, the Wing Wars crew found themselves caught up in the fun when they landed in the “Never Have YOU Ever” cup—forced to admit they’ve also accidentally posted a “See y’all tomorrow!” when the event was actually the following week. The room erupted in laughter and raised their glasses, because, really, who hasn’t been there?

Jason McClenny of McClenny Insurance Agency got his moment in the spotlight when his pong ball landed in the “Serve” cup, challenging him to come up with a two-line rhyming elevator pitch. A poet without realizing it, Jason delivered a clever couplet that stuck in everyone’s head for the rest of the night—proving that even insurance can be lyrical with a little creative spark.

Then came Sarah Glasco of ADHD Peri Punks, who brought a mix of humor and honesty as she discussed how ADHD uniquely affects women in perimenopause and menopause. With her signature sarcastic self-care style and a podcast voice made for the mic, Sarah drew the room in while keeping everyone laughing. Listeners can tune into her show, ADHD Peri Punks, on Spotify or find her and her co-creators sharing relatable content on Instagram at @adhdperipunks.

To top it all off, Minuteman Press of Ashland reminded everyone that “mail marketing is not dead.” They’re currently running their Mailathon ahead of the holiday season—offering $20 off any size mailing and free design services—helping small businesses share their message far and wide. Learn more at minuteman.com/us/locations/va/ashland.

Each guest brought something special to the table—flavor, fun, creativity, or connection—and together, they reminded listeners why Happy Hour Vibes isn’t just a show. It’s a celebration of the people, businesses, and stories that make Central Virginia such a vibrant place to live, work, and play.

Downtown Ashland Association on Happy Hour Vibes

Lou Keeton and Coach Antonio Miller of Downtown Ashland Association joined the episode to highlight the town’s 31 Days of Ashland Halloween celebration and the upcoming Off the Rails Craft Beer & Wine Festival: Boos, Brews, and BBQ, sponsored by Amtrak Virginia, on Saturday, October 25 at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center.

Festival-goers can sip craft beer from Center of the Universe Brewing aboard Amtrak Virginia, then crawl toward craft beer, wine, food, arts, and business vendors all while enjoying live music from Buckville Hootenanny. Thy can even snag free candy for Ashland’s trick-or-treat heavy neighborhoods. Afterward, the party continues with a downtown “After Crawl” featuring Ashland’s favorite spots—Caboose Market & Café, Origin Beer Company, Ash & Olive, Cask and Stave, Iron Horse Restaurant, and The Henry Clay Inn.

Listeners are also encouraged to submit recipes to the Ashland Community Cookbook or name the Ashland Candy Bar by November 1. The Ashland Community Cookbook will be available for purchase in time for Light Up the Tracks: The Grand Illumination on November 22. The winning Ashland Chocolate Bar name will be wrapped up with golden ticket prizes redeemable at the Center of the Universe by New Year’s Eve.

🌟 Foster the Mic: Broadcasting Change

Foster the Mic will reach 1.3 million listeners across Central Virginia through The Barry Farmer Morning Show with Sharon Lizzy, blending storytelling with sponsorship opportunities that make an impact. Sponsorship levels range from $150 to $2,550, each offering on-air exposure, social media promotion, and magazine placement—all while supporting nonprofits that serve foster youth.

“Foster care is more than a system—it’s a community,” said Farmer. “By sponsoring Foster the Mic, your business amplifies real stories while aligning with a powerful cause.”

Sponsorship inquiries: connect@farmercompanyllc.com | 804-243-0731

🎧 Don’t Miss the Final Recording Party of 2025!

The final Happy Hour Vibes Networking and Recording Party of 2025 takes place Monday, October 27 at 6 PM at Farmer Company Media Studios in Richmond.

Join the fun in person—or tune in from home every Thirsty Thursday at 6 PM on K101.2 POP Richmond to sip along, laugh along, and connect with the region’s most entertaining network of entrepreneurs, event planners, and creatives.

Happy Hour Vibes is co-produced by Farmer Media Company, K101.2 POP Richmond, and Downtown Ashland Association, with in-kind Downtown Ashland Association Gold Sponsors Barry Farmer Media, Shaken Not Spurred Mobile Bar, Gianna Does It All, and POWER UP Productions.

Downtown Ashland’s Grand Illumination Kicks Off the Holiday Season

There’s something downright magical about the moment downtown Ashland lights up for the holidays. The Grand Illumination marks the official beginning of Light Up the Tracks, a season-long celebration that transforms the Center of the Universe into a twinkling winter wonderland.

On Saturday, November 22, the community will gather in Historic Downtown Ashland for an afternoon of festive fun that leads up to the big tree lighting at 5:00 PM sharp. Thanks to the support of Dominion Energy and the skilled team at Wells Tree Service, more than 10,000 lights will outline our charming historic buildings, restaurants, and shops. When the switch is flipped, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight into a holiday movie.

For travel made easy, let Amtrak Virginia do the driving—after all, their “sleighs” stop right in the heart of downtown, just in time for the afternoon magic to begin. Start your morning local when you fuel up with brunch or lunch at one of our downtown cafés and restaurants, whether you’re craving a big Southern breakfast, a cozy coffee, or a seasonal latte that tastes like the holidays. From 9 AM to noon, the Ashland Farmers Market will feature farm-fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade treats surrounding Town Hall at 121 Thompson Street while artists showcase Autumn in Ashland at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center. Starting at 10 AM - 4 PM, guests will be able to pop inside the cozy historic halls to browse and shop for pieces from local artists over delicious beverages and desserts.

Starting at 3 PM, explore a festive outdoor market that stretches from the Dominion Energy Innovation Center to 110 Thompson Street, featuring handmade art, crafts, specialty foods, and unique gifts from local makers. Every purchase supports a small business and helps keep Ashland’s downtown thriving through the winter season.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be waiting at the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion, ready to greet families and hear holiday wishes while Center Street Sound Co. fills the air with timeless Christmas tunes. As the afternoon continues, enjoy performances from MKH Dabke Entertainment, the Ashland Dance Academy, and the Randolph-Macon College Choir, who will lead a community sing-along to Walking in a Winter Wonderland.

Then comes the big moment—the Ashland Town Tree lighting at 5:00 PM. As thousands of lights flicker to life across the tracks, you’ll see why downtown Ashland, Virginia has been named one of America’s top Main Streets.

The Grand Illumination is just the beginning. The Light Up the Tracks season continues through New Year’s, filled with heartwarming community traditions and downtown collaborations. The Kiwanis Club of Ashland’s beloved Olde Time Holiday Parade will return for the 56th year on Sunday, November 23 with local musicians, dancers, car groups, and an outdoor vendor market at 110 Thompson Street, produced by the Downtown Ashland Association. Throughout December, downtown restaurants, cafés, and boutiques keep the spirit bright with special promotions and sparkling decorations.

Carolers in historic downtown Ashland, Virginia

Starting Saturday, November 29, carolers will stroll the downtown sidewalks every Saturday evening from 5 to 7 PM, filling the streets with song. The night begins at Town Hall with a 5 PM community sing-along before the music winds its way through Library Plaza, Changing Reins, and The Henry Clay Inn. Local choirs including Good Vibrations, the Henrico Pops, Shiloh Baptist Church, and City Singers Youth Choirs will lead the way, spreading cheer from stop to stop.

And just when you think the season can’t get any sweeter, New Year’s Eve brings the Ashland Chocolate Bar Giveaway. Chocolate bars will be distributed at downtown shops, with one golden ticket hidden among them—good for an exciting downtown Ashland prize. QR code purchases support the Downtown Ashland Association with labels printed locally by Minuteman Press of Ashland and sweet support from our friends at 110 Thompson Street and the Ashland Dance Academy. Buy in cash and donate directly to stores through the hard winter months.

Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, Ashland’s Light Up the Tracks season is an invitation to slow down, shop small, and savor the season with neighbors who make the Center of the Universe shine.

Downtown’s calendar is glowing with holiday happenings—check AshlandVirginia.com/LightUp for an updated list of events and experiences that make this season shine.

Applications are Open for the 56th Olde Time Holiday Parade!

Kathy Abbott and Council Member Daniel McGraw driving in the Kiwanis Club of Ashland’s Olde Time Holiday Parade

There’s nothing quite like the moment the first marching band note echoes down England Street, the smell of kettle corn drifts through the air, and neighbors wave from sidewalks lined with holiday cheer. That’s when you know the season has truly begun — Hallmark style — in the Center of the Universe.

For 56 years, the Kiwanis Club of Ashland’s Olde Time Holiday Parade has been the heartwarming kickoff to our small-town holiday season. From sparkling dance troupes and gleaming classic cars to joyful community floats and hometown heroes, it’s a cherished Ashland tradition that brings neighbors, families, and friends together.

And this year, you can be part of the magic!

The 2025 Olde Time Holiday Parade steps off on Sunday, November 23 at 2 PM, beginning on Thompson Street and traveling through downtown before ending at Gandy Elementary School.

If your organization, school, or business has marched before, check your inbox for an emailed invitation from the Kiwanis Club (via Survey Monkey). If you haven’t joined yet but want to be part of this festive community tradition, this is your chance!

👉 Apply here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Ashland_Holiday_Parade_2025
📅 Entry deadline: October 10, 2025
📧 Questions? Email ashlandkiwanis@gmail.com.

Keeping this 56-year tradition rolling — one smile, one float, and one holiday memory at a time. 🎄✨

Apply by 10/10



Randolph-Macon Ranked Among Best Value and Top 100 Colleges by U.S. News & World Report

Photo and story by Randolph-Macon College

Randolph-Macon College earned a No. 68 ranking for Best Value from the U.S. News & World Report in its Best Colleges guide for national liberal arts colleges. RMC also climbed into the top 100 for national liberal arts colleges overall, ranking No. 96.

“These national rankings are yet another reflection of the momentum we continue to fuel here at RMC,” said Dr. Michael E. Hill, RMC’s President. “We have long recognized that there is special value in the high-impact experiences that are so core to who we are. It’s important to make that accessible for students of all backgrounds and it’s exciting to be recognized for doing just that.”

The rankings for Best Value schools are based on a variety of metrics, including the ratio of academic quality to price, the number of students receiving need-based aid, and the amount of the total cost of attendance covered by scholarships or grants.

“Randolph-Macon’s national rankings are powered by the quality of the learning that happens here” said Provost Alisa J. Rosenthal. “Evidence shows that strong faculty-student relationships and meaningful educational experiences both in and outside the classroom lead students to success later in life.”  

In addition to the national and Best Value lists, RMC also ranks No. 119 for social mobility among national liberal arts colleges.

The College has also been recognized as one of the nation’s Best 391 Colleges by The Princeton Review and as a College of Distinction, with special distinction for its Business, Education, Engineering, and Nursing programs.

Earlier this month, RMC welcomed the largest incoming class of students in its history, pushing total enrollment over 1,800 for the first time. This milestone comes while also maintaining a high academic standard, with the average high school GPA of first-year students registering at 3.77.