Honoring Our Veterans and Preserving Their Legacy

For Manning Memorial Services, the question "Have you forgotten?" isn’t rhetorical—it’s a reminder of the importance of preserving our shared history. "You wouldn't believe how many people have forgotten," Manning says, referring to the number of unmarked graves in American cemeteries with no maps or records. "They are our veterans. They are America's veterans."

Ashland’s own Manning Memorial Services offers a comprehensive range of services including headstone and monument sales, expert care for cemetery plots, and specialized cleaning of both private monuments and government statues. They excel in the restoration of monuments, providing straightening, leveling, engraving, and repainting services to ensure every detail is preserved. Their team also assists with grave location services and supplies for funerals, including chair covers and graveside floral arrangements. With a deep commitment to veterans, they provide dedicated veteran services, including discounts for first responders and military entities. Manning Memorial Services partners with local governments for the cleaning and maintenance of memorials, ensuring that the legacy of service is upheld with the highest standards of care. Downtown Ashland is the next location to experience their expert care.

A Legacy Born from Service

For Daniel Manning Jr., service is more than a job; it’s a calling rooted in his own experiences with loss and remembrance. Manning, who worked at the Pentagon during the tragic events of September 11, 2001, was transferred to Arlington National Cemetery afterward. "I ended up being the one who assigned the graves—for families and their loved ones," Manning recalls. His work went far beyond simply recording names and locations; it became a mission of uncovering forgotten history. "I uncovered graves from every era of American history—including the Civil War. I took every cracked, leaning, crumbling stone and saw they were cleaned and stood erect."

It was this responsibility that sparked his passion for preservation, a passion that now drives Manning Memorial Services. "I trained a lot of individuals to carry on the same tradition," Manning says. "That’s what inspired me—carrying on. Now, we're bringing that training to Ashland."

Manning’s work in Arlington has influenced his belief that not every hero finds rest in national cemeteries like Arlington. Many rest in local churchyards, county cemeteries, or even school grounds. "We follow up, find their final resting places, and preserve them. It takes a community to make sure that veteran graves are taken care of," says Manning. At Shiloh Baptist Church in Ashland alone, the company has identified 83 veterans’ graves.

Preserving More Than Stones

Co-owner Mary Renee’s military background further deepens their connection to this mission. "All of my grandparents were in the military. I always looked up to both of my grandfathers, so I joined the Army because of them," Renee shares. Her dedication to the veterans’ community aligns perfectly with the values that Manning Memorial Services embodies.

Manning Memorial Services goes beyond creating monuments for veterans; they actively engage in restoring and preserving existing graves. Volunteers are crucial to their efforts, helping to locate, clean, and repair veterans’ headstones across the community. The information gathered is compiled into a database, with photos sent to organizations like Wreaths Across America to ensure that graves are honored every Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

Every stone, every name, every story matters. "Everyone has someone dear to them who has served. Everybody has a story of their uncle, father, mother, sibling, love. Everyone has a story," Manning adds. Manning Memorial Services is committed to ensuring these stories are not forgotten. "Bringing our services to cemeteries needs to be done. It has to be done. It is already happening. And it’s starting in Ashland."

Manning Memorial Services continues to recruit volunteers to carry on their mission, hosting community cleaning efforts twice a year. Through these events, they hope to uncover forgotten graves, clean them, and honor their sacrifices with wreaths placed by Wreaths Across America. This commitment ensures that no veteran is forgotten, and their stories continue to be told, not just in Ashland, but across the nation.

"We’re connecting the community back with the tradition of caring for these stones so people can contribute to America's foundation," Manning explains. Volunteers can sign up to help by emailing Manning Memorial Services at mmsinva@gmail.com.

5 Fall Finds in Downtown Ashland

As the air turns crisp and the leaves dance in shades of gold, downtown Ashland, Virginia, becomes the ultimate autumn escape. Whether you're a local or a visitor, here are 5 fall finds that will have you fall-ing in love with the season all over again!

1. Pick the Perfect Bouquet at The Freckled Flower Farm

Step into a floral wonderland at Freckled Flower Farm, voted Virginia’s Best Flower Farm! With the last blooms of the season peeking through, it’s your chance to pick fall flowers before the final bloom. Book your visit.

2. Get Lost in the Colors of Ashland’s Parks and Trails

Whether you’re leafing through the parks on foot, pedaling through on a bike, running toward the vibrant foliage, or cozying up for a picnic, the Town of Ashland’s parks and trails offer a stunning display of bold fall colors and gourd-geous sights. It’s the perfect way to leaf your worries behind! Play in Ashland parks.

3. Savor Seasonal Delights in Downtown Ashland

Take a bite out of autumn at downtown Ashland restaurants, where seasonal farm-to-fork dishes will make your taste buds autumn-atically sing. Don’t forget to shop locally for autumn treasures that are pumpkin spice and everything nice. Chow down and start shopping.

4. Fall into Fun at Ashland’s Fourth Fridays

Mark your calendar for the final Ashland Fourth Fridays event of the season on September 27! Enjoy a festive evening with vendors from Trans Jam Events, a concert by The Sweet Potatoes, music from Ashland Song Contest winners, a fall-tastic book giveaway by Free to Read, and spook-tacular entertainment from Ashland Dance Academy, RED VEIN Escape, and Ashland Haunted History Tours. Fall into Ashland Fourth Fridays.

5. Experience 31 Days of Halloween in Downtown Ashland

Get ready for a month of spooky fun with 31 Days of Halloween in Downtown Ashland! Think you have the spookiest house on the block? Sign up for the Spooky Light Tour and show off your haunted handiwork. For more ghoulish delights, visit AshlandHalloween.com.

There’s always something festive happening in downtown Ashland! Universe. Don’t wait to plan your visit to the Center of the Universe! Every season offers its own special charm, but fall is simply unbe-leaf-able!

September Fourth Fridays Guide

Get ready for an extraordinary evening in historic downtown Ashland! The final Ashland Fourth Fridays of the summer season is upon us, and this year’s celebration is extra special. Join us on September 27, from 5-8 PM, for an event that not only highlights our community’s spirit but also marks a key celebration of Virginia Pride—a spectacular month-long tribute to the LGBTQ community across the state.

A Night of Dynamic Entertainment

The festivities kick off at 5 PM with an impressive lineup of performances by the Ashland Dance Academy at the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion. From the elegance of ballet to the energy of hip-hop and the flair of musical theatre, these talented dancers will bring the stage to life.

Following the dance performances, enjoy a free concert featuring the Ashland Song Contest winner Ginny Ray, who will grace us with her award-winning song. The celebration continues with special performances from other song contest finalists, showcasing their original Center of the Universe-themed creations.

And don’t miss The Sweet Potatoes, a fearless jazz quartet known for their soulful takes on classic covers, innovative originals, and spontaneous jams. With vocal scats, vibrant violin riffs, and a dynamic rhythm section, they’ll have you grooving all night long.

Delicious Bites and Unique Finds

As you enjoy the music and performances, explore an array of vendors around Ashland Town Hall and 110 Thompson Street. TransJam Events, a trans-led service dedicated to organizing fun, inclusive, and engaging local events, will be bringing you a diverse range of vendors offering everything from homemade jams and pastries to original art and tarot readings. 

Treat yourself to sweet and savory crepes from Moniques Crepes or savor Mediterranean-inspired pressed sandwiches from Bikini Panini. Capture a memorable photo with a special guest at 110 Thompson Street—previous visitors have included Bluey, Princess Belle, and Queen Elsa. And don’t forget to grab some free popcorn and cotton candy from Ashland Dance Academy!

Show Your True Colors

In celebration of Virginia Pride, we encourage everyone to let their true colors shine. Dress in your brightest rainbow attire and show your pride as we come together to create a colorful, welcoming, and inclusive atmosphere. Whether you’re waving rainbow flags or sporting colorful accessories, let’s make this event a vivid display of unity and joy.

Art, Entertainment, and Community Spirit

Discover more artistic wonders with KandiMan’s original soft sculptures in front of Changing Reins, and browse Immagine LLC’s art outside Ashland Meat Company. Don’t miss Free to Read’s book giveaway outside the Ashland Branch Library. Engage in immersive games with RED VEIN Escape or delve into Ashland’s darker history with the Ashland Haunted History Tours.

Local restaurants and shops will stay open late, offering delicious farm-to-fork feasts and showcasing curated art and housewares, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Join the Celebration!

This final Ashland Fourth Fridays of the summer season is not just a community event; it's a celebration of inclusivity, pride, and local spirit. Bring your friends, family, and neighbors to experience a night of vibrant entertainment, diverse food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Let’s celebrate our community, embrace our true colors, and make this a night to remember. See you in downtown Ashland!

Apoyo a los empresarios Latinos en Ashland

The Downtown Ashland Association is excited to unveil a new series of free Spanish language workshops aimed at empowering local entrepreneurs and organizations. Led by the dynamic Shanna Kabatznick of Shanna K Consulting Services, these four hands-on sessions will offer practical strategies that aim to uplift and support Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs at every level.
La Asociación del Centro de Ashland se complace en presentar una nueva serie de talleres gratuitos en español destinados a empoderar a empresarios y organizaciones locales. Dirigidas por la dinámica Shanna Kabatznick de Shanna K Consulting Services, estas cuatro sesiones ofrecerán estrategias prácticas que tienen como objetivo elevar y apoyar a los empresarios de habla hispana en todos los niveles.

Workshop Schedule - Horario del Taller:

• September 12, 2024 – Basic Steps to Start Your Business
  12 de septiembre 2024 7pm – Pasos Básicos para iniciar tu Negocio

  • This introductory workshop is tailored for aspiring entrepreneurs who are ready to turn their business ideas into reality. Participants will learn the fundamental principles necessary for launching a successful business.

  • Este taller introductorio está diseñado para aspirantes a emprendedores listos para convertir sus ideas de negocio en realidad. Los participantes aprenderán los principios fundamentales necesarios para lanzar un negocio exitoso.

• September 19, 2024 – Establish Marketing Tactics to Grow Your Business
  19 de septiembre 2024 7pm – Establezca tácticas de marketing para hacer crecer su negocio

  • Discover how to effectively identify and segment your market. This session will guide you in setting specific marketing objectives to reach and engage your ideal customers.
    Descubra cómo identificar y segmentar su mercado de manera efectiva. Esta sesión le guiará en el establecimiento de objetivos de marketing específicos para atraer a sus clientes ideales.

• September 26, 2024 – Let’s Talk About Finances and How to Manage Them in Your Business
  26 de septiembre 2024 7pm– Hablemos de finanzas y cómo gestionarlas en negocio

  • Enhance your business’s financial health by diving into essential financial management techniques. This workshop will equip you with the knowledge needed to oversee and improve your business finances.
    Mejore la salud financiera de su empresa profundizando técnicas esenciales de gestión financiera. Este taller te equipará con el conocimiento para supervisar y mejorar las finanzas de tu negocio.

• October 3, 2024 – Establishing a Five-Year Plan to Continue Your Business
  3 de octubre de 2024 7pm – Establecer un plan de 5 años para continuar con su negocio

  • Ensure the longevity and success of your small business with a robust five-year plan. Utilizing SWOT analysis, this session will help you evaluate your business and strategize for a prosperous future.
    Garantice la longevidad y el éxito de su negocio con un sólido plan de cinco años. Utilizando el análisis FODA, esta sesión lo ayudará a evaluar su negocio y elaborar estrategias para un futuro próspero.

All workshops will be held in person at 7 PM inside The Gathering Place (155 Junction Dr, Ashland, VA 23005) and are fully ADA accessible. 
Todos los talleres se llevarán a cabo en persona en The Gathering Place (155 Junction Dr, Ashland, VA 23005) y son totalmente accesibles según la ADA.

Shanna Kabatznick, acclaimed as the “Queen of Hookups,” is known for her energetic and engaging presentation style. An international bilingual speaker, trainer, and consultant, Shanna excels in creating an environment where attendees feel motivated and informed.
Shanna Kabatznick, aclamada como la "Reina de las conexiones", es conocida por su estilo de presentación enérgico y atractivo. Es una capacitadora y consultora bilingüe internacional, Shanna se destaca en la creación de un entorno donde los participantes se sienten motivados e informados.

Local businesses are encouraged to sponsor these workshops for a unique opportunity to connect with the community of entrepreneurs. Sponsorship includes marketing benefits and promotional space at the events. 
Estos talleres también son una buena oportunidad para las empresas locales a patrocinar y tener una oportunidad única de conectarse con la comunidad de emprendedores. El patrocinio incluye beneficios de marketing y espacio promocional en los eventos.

For more details on each workshop, sponsorships, and to learn more about Shanna Kabatznick, visit AshlandVirginia.com/Espanol

Louise Keeton Named Director of Operations

The Downtown Ashland Association (DAA) is thrilled to announce the promotion of Louise Keeton to Director of Operations. Since joining DAA as Marketing Director in March 2023, Keeton has played a pivotal role in elevating the organization’s presence, earning over nine million media impressions and increasing digital media engagement by an astounding 700%. Their innovative event planning efforts have drawn more than 35,000 visitors to Downtown Ashland, solidifying the town’s reputation as a vibrant and welcoming community hub and one of the top mainstreets in America.

In their new role as Director of Operations, Keeton will oversee the planning of beloved community events such as Ashland Train Day, Ashland Halloween, Light Up the Tracks, and Ashland Fourth Fridays. Additionally, they will lead DAA’s marketing initiatives, representing the organization across TV, radio, social media, and print, with a focus on making Downtown Ashland a premier destination for both locals and visitors.

"Appointing Keeton as Director of Operations is the best decision Downtown Ashland Association has ever made," said Executive Director Coach Antonio Miller.

Keeton’s connection to Ashland runs deep, having moved to the town in seventh grade. Their passion for the community was evident from a young age, as they eagerly volunteered with the Ashland Variety Show, the Ashland Theatre, and other local initiatives. This commitment to the arts and community engagement ultimately led to the founding of the Whistle Stop Theatre Company, a non-profit organization that has become a cornerstone of Ashland’s cultural landscape.

Under Keeton’s leadership, the Whistle Stop Theatre Company has spent over a decade earning widespread recognition, including being named “Best of Richmond” “ and “Women in the Arts” by Style Weekly readers. Two of Keeton’s original plays have been published by YouthPlays, and their production “Cinderella: The Fairy Godmother’s Tale” was featured in the New York Children’s Theatre Festival. The Whistle Stop Theatre Company, a family-run, volunteer-based organization, has been praised for its dedication to providing quality entertainment that empowers, educates, and inspires audiences to develop their skills in empathy, literature, history, and imagination.

Reflecting on their journey, Keeton shared, "Ashland has been the center of my universe since childhood. From the moment I became an Ashland resident, my neighbors made me feel safe, seen, and embraced. I want everyone to feel so welcome in downtown Ashland. It is truly a dream job to be able to plan events and marketing on behalf of downtown Ashland."

Before joining DAA, Keeton honed their skills in brand amplification, digital growth, and content creation. Their tenure as a Digital Producer at Virginia’s Home for Public Media (VPM) was marked by numerous successes, including the development of innovative strategies to transform radio, podcast, and television content for social media. Keeton’s work at VPM garnered significant recognition, with their strategies being highlighted in Current’s “Local That Works,” PBS Tech Con’s “Steal This Idea,” and in Regional Edward R. Murrow Award prizes for Excellence in Innovation and Excellence in Social Media for three consecutive years. Keeton’s strategy for VPM’s Instagram grew the audience by over thirteen thousand followers.

Keeton’s impressive career trajectory, coupled with their deep commitment to the Ashland community, makes them an invaluable asset to the Downtown Ashland Association as they step into this new leadership role.

None of these efforts would be possible without the support of the community. To contribute to the continued success of Downtown Ashland Association, please consider making a tax-deductible donation at AshlandVirginia.com/giving