"Coach" Antonio Miller Named New Executive Director

Downtown Ashland Association (DAA) is thrilled to announce Antonio Miller, affectionately known as "Coach," as its new Executive Director. A community leader with a heart for collaboration, growth, and perseverance, Coach brings an inspiring vision to one of America’s most celebrated main streets.

A Passion for Community Development

“I am honored to be joining the Downtown Ashland Association,” says Coach Miller. “The organization’s mission to revitalize and enhance downtown Ashland aligns perfectly with my passion for community development. Ashland is such a unique place, at a unique time, and the dedication of the people here is incredible. I feel optimistic about preserving Ashland’s charm while participating in its growth firsthand.”

Coach’s pride in fostering collaboration and mentoring youth will play a pivotal role in his vision for Ashland. “My dream is simple: preserve what the Town has built while laying a foundation for our youth to thrive. This means equipping businesses with tools for success while creating opportunities for the next generation to benefit from Ashland’s sustained growth.”

A Proven Leader in Community Engagement

Coach Miller’s ability to see DAA’s mission come to life through Ashland’s vibrant streetscapes is a testament to his passion for cultivating connection. “DAA’s mission isn’t aspirational—it’s a reflection of everyday Ashland. That’s the beauty of this town,” he reflects. His excitement about strengthening the downtown business ecosystem underscores his commitment to further integrating the community, creating a thriving hub that serves both residents and visitors.

A Partnership for Progress

Coach Miller will work closely with Lou Keeton, DAA’s Director of Operations, who will continue producing and marketing events while Coach focuses on building relationships, securing funding, and pursuing new opportunities for Ashland.

“I couldn’t have dreamed up a better business partner,” says Keeton. “His ability to dream and collaborate is unparalleled. Downtown Ashland is so lucky to have Coach advocating for us, our neighbors, and our community.”

A Legacy of Excellence

Coach Miller joins DAA during a milestone achievement—its 11th consecutive year of Main Street America accreditation. This recognition reflects the association’s exceptional performance in revitalizing Ashland’s historic downtown. Signature events like Ashland Train Day and Light Up the Tracks continue to draw tens of thousands of visitors, while grants and business initiatives foster economic development and community spirit.

DAA’s accreditation and impact are the result of tireless efforts by volunteers, business owners, and leaders who share a passion for preserving Ashland’s unique character while embracing growth.

Join the Movement

With Coach Miller at the helm, DAA is poised for an exciting chapter of progress and collaboration. The community is invited to support DAA’s mission by becoming VIP members, ensuring continued programming that keeps Ashland vibrant and thriving.

For more information, visit AshlandVirginia.com/VIP.

Welcome aboard, Coach Miller! Your leadership, vision, and dedication are sure to propel Downtown Ashland to new heights.

2024 Light Up The Tracks Guide

Beginning Saturday, November 23rd, Downtown Ashland Association invites you to join the sparkle and cheer as we “Light Up the Tracks” in our hallmark historic district! Presented by Dominion Energy, this luminous event offers six weeks of twinkling displays, joyful activities, and small-town charm to make your holiday season truly brighter.

As you stroll down Center Street, discover a winter wonderland where Downtown buildings, historic homes, and Randolph-Macon College are all decked in dazzling white lights. It’s like stepping into a holiday card! Plus, local shops and community groups have a sleigh full of holiday events for you to enjoy all season long. Here’s just a glimmer of what’s in store:

Light Up the Tracks Apparel

Get your Light Up the Tracks apparel from TSI Promotionals and sleigh the streets in exclusive winter fashion! Don’t let this frost-tastic gear slip through your mittens—order now and be ready to sparkle up the town.

BUY

Ashland Ornament Drive now through November 23

Show off your festive spirit by designing or donating an ornament that represents your business, charity, family, or favorite Ashland memory! Drop it off at Ashland Town Hall, and it’ll light up the Ashland Town Tree at the Glen Allen Cultural Arts Center.

LEARN MORE

Light Up the Tracks Celebration on Saturday, November 23rd at 5pm

Kick off the season with an arts and crafts market featuring over 70 local vendors, an Illuminated Costume Contest with Ashland Christmas Market prizes, and festive entertainment like Jonathan Austin's 24 Hour Emergency Juggling and Magic, a petting zoo at Ashland Feed Store, Boot Scooters line dancing, and visits from Santa and Rudolph!

ATTEND

Olde Time Holiday Parade on Sunday, November 24 at 2 PM

Join us for a classic holiday parade that brings more than 100 festive entries to downtown. From Snead Street to Archie Cannon Drive, our community comes together to light up the streets with holiday cheer.

ATTEND

Caroling by local choirs on Saturdays November 30 - December 28 at 5 PM

Every Saturday, downtown Ashland resonates with the timeless tradition of caroling, making your holiday feel like a storybook come to life.

LEARN MORE

Ashland Christmas Market on Saturday, December 7 from 11am-4pm

With over 100 local artists, festive food trucks, and 18 local eateries, this is the perfect spot to find handcrafted gifts while enjoying seasonal bites and holiday tunes.

ATTEND

New Years Eve Masquerade Ball on Tuesday, December 31 from 9pm - 12AM

The Hanover Arts and Activities Center transforms into a world of elegance and mystery, with live music, cocktails and mocktails by Shaken Not Spurred, delicious dining by Strawberry Street Catering, and an auction to benefit Downtown Ashland Association and Hanover Arts and Activities Center.

ATTEND

Wrap up in your coziest coat and head to downtown Ashland this holiday season to brighten up your celebrations. From unique handmade gifts to warming cups of hot chocolate, Ashland offers an old-fashioned holiday experience where every step sparkles with small-town magic. Keep up with the whole cool calendar at www.LightUpTheTracks.com

Office Space Available in Downtown Ashland

Dream big and envision your business thriving in the heart of downtown Ashland! Our historic mainstreet is a destination for visitors and locals alike. Now is your chance to make your mark in the legendary 112 Thompson building, once the proud home of the acclaimed Herald Progress. With its soaring ceilings, ample natural light flooding through expansive windows, and convenient parking, this space is more than just a location – it's an opportunity waiting to be seized.

Dive into the details below and take the first step toward realizing your entrepreneurial dreams. Reach out to 112heraldprogress@gmail.com to turn your vision into reality!

Available 7/1

112 Thompson Street, Ashland Va 23005

2nd Floor offices (Avail 7/1)

B1. 241sf $513 $2.13 (+125 util) 

• Offices consist of one large room, tall ceilings, lots of natural light, overlooking the Town Green. 

• Shared entrance via center front door and stairs. 

• Shared hall bathroom. 

• Dedicated heating/air for each suite. 

Vote for a Picture Perfect Ashland!

Ashland has always had a picture-perfect charm, and now you can help capture that spirit by voting for Downtown Ashland Association in the 2024 NIA Nonprofit Photo Contest! Voting is open until November 22, 2024, and each vote brings us closer to securing up to $5,000 in funding that would go directly into supporting our vibrant, small-town community.

This year, we submitted a stunning snapshot that perfectly reflects the joy and dreams of Ashland’s young dancers. Taken during the Ashland Dance Academy’s spring showcase screening at the Ashland Theatre, the photo captures families lining the red carpet as young dancers strutted down a runway sprinkled with stars bearing their names. Just like Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, this scene was filled with excitement and dreams. In the Center of the Universe, we believe in turning aspirations into achievements—just like this moment captured on film.

How You Can Help

It’s easy to add your vote to the frame! Click on this link to vote and support Downtown Ashland Association with a single click. Voting is open to all, but limited to one vote per person, so make sure your focus is crystal clear when casting your vote.

Why It Matters

With $5,000 in potential cash prizes, including awards for “Best of Show” and “Standing Ovation” winners, your vote helps us zoom in on a brighter future for Ashland. Downtown Ashland Association is more than just an organization—we’re a community of artists, farmers, government leaders, business owners, parents, and grandparents. Together, we work tirelessly to strengthen our town’s economic development, amplify local businesses, and host events that bring people together in unforgettable ways.

So, grab your virtual camera and capture this chance to support Ashland! With just a click, you can help Downtown Ashland Association snap up the resources we need to continue shining a spotlight on our town’s potential.

Remember, voting closes at 8 p.m. ET on November 22, 2024, so let’s frame our path to victory today! The winners will be announced on December 10, 2024—stay tuned and let’s hope our community makes it into the winner's circle.

Thank you for helping us develop a stronger Ashland, one vote at a time.

Downtown Ashland Association Named Small Business of the Year Finalist

We’re thrilled to announce that Downtown Ashland Association has been named a finalist for Small Business of the Year in the 2024 HYPE Icons: Young Professionals Awards hosted by Chamber RVA. This prestigious recognition celebrates our commitment to revitalizing and uplifting Ashland’s historic downtown—a place so many of us call home and proudly represent as “The Center of the Universe.”

Join us to celebrate this achievement at the awards ceremony on Thursday, November 14, from 6:00 to 10:00 PM at Richmond’s iconic Altria Theater, located at 6 N Laurel Street. Dress to impress in your dressy-casual best, and come ready to cheer us on! We’d love to see familiar faces from Ashland joining us for an evening of recognition, celebration, and a show of support for small businesses that make our communities vibrant and strong.

A Legacy of Excellence in Revitalizing Downtown Ashland

For over a decade, Downtown Ashland Association has upheld its Main Street America accreditation, marking 11 consecutive years of distinction. This honor reflects our dedication to creating a thriving, welcoming downtown, fueled by programs that boost economic development, preserve Ashland’s rich heritage, and foster community engagement. The accreditation process includes an intensive review, and Downtown Ashland Association proudly achieved an impressive 4.5 rating, demonstrating excellence across key areas like inclusive leadership, diverse funding sources, and impactful programming.

From Ashland Train Day and Light Up the Tracks to monthly Ashland Fourth Fridays and the family-friendly Ashland Halloween celebration, we bring together residents, businesses, and visitors to create unforgettable experiences. Our team of volunteers, board members, and staff, led by Executive Director Maggie Longest, works tirelessly to ensure that Ashland remains a top destination for both locals and newcomers.

Empowering Small Businesses in Ashland

Downtown Ashland Association not only celebrates Ashland’s history but actively contributes to its future by supporting local businesses. In 2023, we secured $175,000 in grants from the Virginia Main Street Program, allowing us to offer free workshops, pitch competitions, business handbooks, and mentorship programs. Our partnerships with organizations like Market Ashland Partnership and Hanover Chamber of Commerce help cultivate a supportive environment for small businesses, encouraging a cycle of growth, innovation, and local patronage.

Preserving Ashland’s Unique Character

Our mission includes preserving Ashland’s distinct character and history, so future generations can continue to experience its charm. Collaborations with the Ashland Museum and Hanover County Black Heritage Society allow us to celebrate and preserve the stories, people, and events that define Ashland’s identity.

Celebrate with Us and Help Ashland Thrive!

As we gear up for this incredible honor, we invite you to join us at the HYPE Icons Awards on November 14. And if you’d like to support Downtown Ashland Association’s work year-round, consider becoming a VIP member. Membership helps us continue the impactful programs and initiatives that make Ashland the vibrant place we all love.

To become a VIP member and learn more about supporting Downtown Ashland Association, visit AshlandVirginia.com/VIP. Together, we can ensure that Downtown Ashland remains a beacon of community spirit, innovation, and pride. See you at the ceremony!