Demystifying AI Brings Big Brains and Bigger Questions to Ashland Theatre

Can artificial intelligence actually help you write a resume, map out your next novel, or decode data science? Or are we just feeding the algorithm? Join two of Virginia’s brightest minds as they unravel the mystery of AI in a free community event on Tuesday, May 20 at 6 PM at the historic Ashland Theatre.

Demystifying AI is a live demonstration and interactive conversation designed to make the world of large language models—like ChatGPT—a little less intimidating and a lot more accessible. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or already using AI tools in your personal or professional life, this event will help you separate fact from fiction, and science from sci-fi.

The evening will feature Christine Holzem, retired Group Vice President of National IT for the Federal Reserve Banks and current Adjunct Professor at Virginia Commonwealth University, and Dr. Jason Merrick, Professor of Supply Chain Management and Analytics at VCU and internationally recognized expert in decision and risk analysis.

Christine Holzem

Together, they'll explore how emerging technologies like generative AI are reshaping how we work, learn, and lead—with a live demonstration and plenty of time for audience Q&A.

Holzem brings nearly four decades of experience guiding organizations through transformation, from cybersecurity to Six Sigma, from global marketing to IT strategy across the Federal Reserve System. Known for empowering future leaders, she now teaches VCU’s capstone students how to harness tools like ChatGPT to solve complex, real-world problems.

Dr. Jason Merrick

Dr. Merrick, meanwhile, has dedicated his career to decision science and analytics. With over $3 million in research funding and clients ranging from the U.S. Coast Guard to ExxonMobil, Merrick’s work shows how data—and now AI—can support better decisions in critical moments.

“AI isn’t a magic wand,” says Downtown Ashland Association’s Executive Director “Coach” Antonio Miller, “but it can be a powerful partner. The key is understanding when to trust the tool—and when to trust yourself. We can trust Dr. Merric and Christine Holzem are up to the task of demystifying AI and inspiring audiences.”

Demystifying AI is free and open to the public. Whether you’re a student, teacher, small business owner, or simply AI-curious, you’re invited to join the conversation, see a live demonstration of generative AI in action, and bring your own questions to the experts.

And yes—we promise: no pop quizzes from the robots. Learn more at AshlandVirginia.com/DemystifyingAI

EVENT DETAILS:

Demystifying AI
 📅 Tuesday, May 20
 🕕 6:00 PM
 📍 Ashland Theatre, 205 England St., Ashland, VA
🎟️ Free Admission

Vote Downtown Ashland in the Heart of Hanover

Rick Kidd Photography of Ashland Train Day, 2025.

Hold onto your hats and hand fans, Ashland — we’ve got news that’ll light up the tracks!

The Downtown Ashland Association has been nominated for Nonprofit of the Year by the Heart of Hanover Awards. From now until May 16, you can vote once a day for the hometown heroes that keep our community running, thriving, and shining like the Center of the Universe that it is.

This honor is a big deal — not just for us, but for every neighbor, business, and supporter who makes Downtown Ashland such a special place to live, visit, and love. That’s why we’re encouraging you to vote for all your favorites in Hanover County’s business awards categories. While you’re there, we hope you’ll vote for Downtown Ashland Association as Nonprofit of the Year. Because when we win, everyone does.

🛤️ A Vote for Downtown Ashland Association Is a Vote for...

  • 🎉 Unforgettable events like Ashland Train Day, Light Up the Tracks, and Ashland Fourth Fridays

  • 🛍️ Small business support through free workshops, the Center Street Pitch Competition, immersive markets, and record-breaking tourism

  • 🏆 Award-winning advocacy from a Main Street America-accredited nonprofit with a nearly perfect score

  • ❤️ Heart-filled leadership from our dynamic duo: Director of Operations Louise “Lou” Keeton and Executive Director “Coach”  Antonio Miller

  • 🤝 Collaboration with other nominees like the Ashland Theatre, Manning Memorial Services, Center of the Universe Brewing Company, and more

Downtown Ashland Association’s dynamic duo, Executive Director “Coach”  Antonio Miller and Director of Operations Louise “Lou” Keeton

In fact, many of the Heart of Hanover nominees have been supported by or collaborated with Downtown Ashland Association in some way. We’re not just a nonprofit — we’re a network-builder, a cheerleader, and a catalyst for the very people and places you’re voting for. We’re thrilled to be nominated as Nonprofit of the Year—but we’re just as proud to share the spotlight with our neighbors, collaborators, and friends in every category. After all, Downtown Ashland is built on partnership, passion, and people-first business. Learn more about each category and the incredible Hanover-based nominees we’re rooting for.

Vote once a day, every day through May 16, and while we’d be honored to have your vote for Nonprofit of the Year, we encourage you to spread the love among this lineup of local legends. (Listed in alphabetical—not preferential—order!)

🎟️ Destination Business of the Year

Whether it’s movies, music, or mischievous goats—these local legends make Hanover a must-visit.

  • Ashland Theatre
     Lights, camera, community impact! Ashland Theatre is more than a historic venue—it’s a stage for live performances, epic films, and educational events that entertain and inspire. It also plays a starring role in Downtown Ashland Association events like the Center Street Pitch Competition and Demystifying AI. Talk about reel impact!

  • Meadowgate Alpacas
     We’re wooly excited to support our sponsors at Meadowgate, who blend cozy creations with hands-on farm visits. You’ve seen their smiling alpacas at Train Day and Light Up the Tracks, and their home farm offers an unforgettable agrotourism experience.

  • Rhythm Ranch Homestead
     Get ready to rock the barnyard! Rhythm Ranch Homestead is redefining agrotourism with cuddly critters, creative education, and overnight farm stays in the works. A fellow Pitch honoree and a GOAT-level community gem.

🧘 Health & Wellness Business of the Year

These nominees are tooth-tally committed to your wellness—inside and out.

  • Root Modern Dentistry
     Led by the dazzling Dr. Chriska Mustafa, Root Modern Dentistry turns dental care into a self-care ritual. Their affirming, modern space (and Downtown Ashland Association sponsorship!) proves that a healthy smile can be rooted in compassion and confidence.

  • Your Path Counseling Center

    Downtown Ashland Association’s sponsors offer private counseling and a variety of innovative techniques and approaches for mental health in all ages.

🍻 Manufacturer of the Coolest Thing Made in Hanover County

This category’s brewing with innovation!

  • Center of the Universe Brewing Company
     COTU thinks outside the can and delivers inside the community. From their presence aboard Amtrak Virginia’s bar car (with their Brewski beer!) to serving up drinks for Downtown Ashland Association’s New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball and Ashland Saturday Soundtracks, they’re always pouring into Ashland.

💙 Nonprofit Organization of the Year

This one’s close to our hearts—we’re proud to be nominated alongside these mission-minded movers and shakers.

  • Downtown Ashland Association
     We’re here to light up the tracks (literally and figuratively) by supporting local businesses, welcoming visitors, and preserving the charm and character of Downtown Ashland. We humbly ask for your vote so we can keep training our focus on making Ashland a destination for all.

  • The Arc of Hanover Thrift Store
     Their volunteer-powered mission promotes inclusion and independence for people with disabilities. A frequent presence at Ashland events and business workshops, The Arc of Hanover is the thrift that keeps on giving.

  • CJ’s Thumbs Up Foundation
     With heart and hustle, CJ’s TU Foundation supports families in crisis with meals and financial assistance. Their volunteers have helped us bring the fun to Ashland Train Day—and their compassion is always thumbs-up worthy.

🛍️ Retail Business of the Year

Talk about shop stars! These local retailers keep our shelves stocked and spirits high.

  • Crimson and Clover Thrift
     Curated, charming, and located right here in downtown Ashland, Crimson and Clover is a treasure trove of vintage finds and stylish surprises.

  • Los Regios Tienda Latina
     From groceries to great food truck fare, Los Regios brings global flavor to Center Street. A proud Pitch Competition honoree and DAA partner, they’re the real dill.

  • RefunkIt
     Home to handmade gifts and reclaimed creativity, RefunkIt is a staple of Downtown Ashland events—and our go-to for unforgettable, locally made finds.

🍽️ Restaurant of the Year

Grab your fork—and your vote! These restaurants serve up serious flavor with a side of community spirit.

  • Ash & Olive
     With wood-fired pizzas, elegant collabs with mixologists, and events like launching the Golden Taste of Ashland, Ash & Olive is firing up the Ashland food scene.

  • The Caboose Market & Cafe
     A toast to The Caboose, whose wines and farm-to-fork fare have elevated everything from weeknight dinners to midnight celebrations at the New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball.

🛠️ Service Business of the Year

These behind-the-scenes heroes keep Ashland running with care and craft.

  • Kristie Bradley Photography
     Kristie captures joy with every click. Whether she’s photographing families, seniors, or volunteering to deck the Ashland Town Tree, her creativity always shines.

  • Manning Memorial Services
     From headstones to historic preservation, Manning Memorial Services honors veterans and families with dignity, detail, and deep care. Their work reminds us to never forget the importance of legacy.

So while you’re showing the love across the board, we hope you’ll cast your Nonprofit of the Year vote for Downtown Ashland Association — because a vote for us isn’t just a vote for a team of two, it’s a vote for the entire Ashland community.

📅 Voting runs from May 5 through May 16, and you can cast one vote per day, per category. Help us keep the good vibes rolling and the town glowing!

Ashland Train Day Guide to Getting Here

Ashland Train Day is pulling into the station on Saturday, April 26 from 11 AM to 4 PM, and there are so many ways to arrive at this celebration of rails, roots, and community spirit. Whether you're traveling from across the region or coming in from a nearby neighborhood, we've laid out the best routes to get you to the Center of the Universe in style.

🚄 Travel by Train (Of Course!)

Why not travel the Ashland way—by train? Amtrak stops right in the heart of downtown Ashland, placing you smack in the middle of Train Day festivities. Kids ride for half price, and Amtrak sweetens the ride with kid-friendly activities like coloring pages, games, and videos. Grown-ups can sit back with a craft beer from Center of the Universe Brewing Company and toast to the good times ahead.

🌐 Can’t Make It in Person? Go Virtual!

Join the millions of train lovers who enjoy Ashland’s tracks through Virtual Railfan. During Train Day, the Ashland Branch Library becomes a real-life meeting place for the digital railfan community, complete with a special train display for visitors of all ages.

🅿️ Park and Shuttle Like a Pro

Avoid the traffic crawl and hop on one of our engineered-for-ease shuttles. Three Park & Ride locations will be open with continuous service to downtown Ashland starting at 11 AM (final shuttle departs at 3:45 PM):

🚧 Road Closures Ahead

Plan your route accordingly! Streets around Railroad Avenue, Center Street, and Hanover Avenue will be closed between 8 AM and 4 PM. England Street to Thompson Street will close from 10 AM to 4 PM.

🎫 Pro Tip

Raffle - 2 Amtrak Tickets Raffle - 2 Amtrak Tickets
Sold out
Raffle - 2 Amtrak Tickets
$10.00

There’s a special ticket to ride waiting for someone! For a chance to score two rail tickets anywhere along the East Coast, when you enter Downtown Ashland Association’s Amtrak Raffle. Just be sure to hop on before April 25!

Ashland Train Day is more than a festival—it’s a full-steam-ahead community celebration filled with trains, tunes, and tons of smiles. Save this blog, share it with your fellow passengers, and make your plans now for a smooth ride to one of Virginia’s most beloved family events.

🚂 See you at the station!

Nominate Downtown Ashland Association for Nonprofit of the Year

Ashland Dance Academy’s flash mob at Ashland Halloween, 2024.

The inaugural Heart of Hanover Awards is calling on the community to recognize the very best of Hanover County—and Downtown Ashland Association is ready to take center stage.

With nominations now open for Nonprofit of the Year, it’s time to rally the Center of the Universe and shine a spotlight on the small-town powerhouse that keeps Ashland’s heart beating and its tracks buzzing. From boosting business visibility to drawing in thousands of visitors for beloved events, Downtown Ashland Association (DAA) has spent the past year proving that local impact can go the distance.

Under the leadership of Director of Operations Louise “Lou” Keeton and Executive Director Antonio “Coach” Miller, Downtown Ashland Association has transformed community engagement from a goal into a movement. Whether it’s placing porta potties or pulling off powerhouse campaigns, Lou and Coach work hand-in-hand (and often hand-on-wheelbarrow) to make downtown Ashland a thriving, welcoming destination.

Here’s why Downtown Ashland Association deserves your nomination:

Randolph-Macon College performing at Light Up the Tracks Celebration

  • Dramatic growth in reach and engagement: DAA’s marketing magic brought in over 9 million media impressions, grew digital reach by 700%, and increased website traffic by 302,000 visitors.

  • Strong financial stewardship: Uses monetary and in-kind donations to support events, marketing, and business programs.

  • Events that stop the train (literally): Ashland Train Day and Light Up the Tracks have drawn hundreds of thousands of visitors and made downtown a must-visit destination.

  • Original initiatives that spark joy: From the Ashland Song Contest to immersive historical tours, Downtown Ashland Association has given locals and visitors more reasons to fall in love with Ashland.

  • National recognition: Ashland was named the #1 community in Virginia for increasing visitation, and Downtown Ashland Association received near-perfect marks as a nationally accredited Main Street America nonprofit.

“Coach” Antonio Miller speaking at the Center Street Pitch Competition

It’s not just about events or numbers—it’s about community. Downtown Ashland Association is powered by artists and entrepreneurs, parents and public servants, all united in a shared mission: to harness the power of community to build a stronger future for everyone.

Nominate Downtown Ashland Association for Nonprofit of the Year today and help them keep making tracks toward an even brighter tomorrow.

🛤 Nominations are open from April 14 to May 3, 2025.
 🗳 Voting will run May 5 to May 18, 2025.
 🎉 Winners will be announced June 11, 2025.

🔗 Submit your nomination at go.richmond.com/heartofhanover

Let’s keep Ashland’s heart on the map—and its spirit on the rails.

Gearing Up for Fun with Train Day’s Touchable Trucks

Touch a Truck sponsored by RCI Builders at Ashland Train Day.

Ashland Train Day is about to rev up the excitement in the Center of the Universe—and this year’s Touch a Truck lineup is bringing high-octane thrills to the tracks! Thanks to the generous support of RCI Builders, Train Day’s most hands-on exhibit gives gearheads of all ages the chance to climb into the driver’s seat—literally.

Touch a Truck will be stationed from the corner of England Street and Maple Avenue all the way down to the railroad tracks, where families can check out a fleet of incredible vehicles, talk to the folks behind the wheel, and discover the big machines that help our community move full steam ahead.

RCI Builders at Ashland Tran Day, 2024

RCI Builders has been driving quality and craftsmanship since 1999. Locally owned and operated by founders Todd Rogers, Mike Chenault, and partner Patrick Ashley, RCI has grown into one of Central Virginia’s largest construction companies, with 30+ employees, over 18 communities, and an impressive build-on-your-lot program. Their support helps make this engine run—and helps keep Touch a Truck free and open to all.

So what’s under the hood at Touch a Truck this year? Let’s shift into gear:

🚒 Ashland Fire Department is bringing the heat with their iconic ladder truck, ready for close-up inspection.

🔧 Glen Allen Transmission will be on-site with high-performance tech and tools from their state-of-the-art auto repair facility.

🚛 Lawrence Equipment delivers powerful construction machines with all the modern bells and whistles today’s builders demand.

🌲 Wells Tree Service, the behind-the-scenes heroes of Ashland’s Light Up the Tracks, will showcase the truck that lights up the town—literally.

🚜 Gulf Seaboard is hauling in commercial construction power with the experience and strength that’s helped build schools, churches, banks, and more across the region since 1982.

🧹 JDog Junk Removal is proving that clean-up can come with a mission—donating or recycling up to 80% of what they haul, and making a difference while making space.

🚐 Commonwealth RV and Boats is parking a dream garage with their jaw-dropping collection of pre-owned RVs, yachts, and even aircraft. It’s more than a pit stop—it’s an adventure.

🪟 Pella Windows and Doors of Virginia will give visitors a peek behind the panes with displays that frame just how smooth and efficient modern windows can be.

🚑 Veterans of Foreign Wars will roll in with a historic M20 Greyhound Personnel Carrier and ambulance, connecting guests with military history through a powerful, hands-on experience.

Model A Ford cars on S Railroad Ave.

🚗 Model A Ford cars, though strictly look-but-don’t-touch, will add vintage vroom on S. Railroad Avenue—showcasing iconic style and classic charm from the golden age of motoring.

🚒 PlayRVA’s Firetruck Experience takes things to the next level—offering not just a peek inside a firetruck, but rides around the block! Cross the tracks to Thompson Street to catch a ride, check out onboard flat screens, and enjoy treats and more.

🚂 Just a hop down Cox Lane beside the Hanover Arts and Activities Center, families can hop aboard Blue Ridge Live Steamers and Titan Trains to explore and ride a steam engine, a diesel engine, and two rail cars. It's the ultimate connection between trains, trucks, and tracks.

Ashland Train Day is the place where little hands meet big wheels, where dreams shift into drive, and where the Center of the Universe becomes the center of excitement. Thanks to our community partners and the generous support of RCI Builders, Touch a Truck is ready to roll.

So bring the whole crew down to Ashland on Saturday, April 26, from 11 AM to 4 PM—it’s full throttle fun for the whole family!