On The Fly Events Brings Big Smiles to Back-to-School Season

On The Fly Events in historic downtown Ashland.

As school doors swing open and students gather for a brand-new academic year, On The Fly Events is rolling in with a mission: to make back-to-school season more joyful than ever before. Through their state-of-the-art Game Truck parties and interactive inflatable experiences, On The Fly Events is redefining what it means to bring a school community together — one game, one smile, and one bounce at a time.

From elementary school field days to middle and high school community fun days, On The Fly Events has already made a splash across the region, working with school systems in Richmond, Hanover, Henrico, Westmoreland, King William, King and Queen, and Caroline counties to create vibrant, kid-focused entertainment experiences. Whether it's a back-to-school fundraiser, a school carnival, or a just-because celebration, their mobile entertainment options turn everyday school events into lifelong memories. One enthusiastic student summed it up best, “This is the best day ever!”

A Game-Changer for School and Community Events

On The Fly Events climate-controlled mobile Game Truck

At the heart of On The Fly Events is their climate-controlled mobile Game Truck, delivering video game truck rentals near you with all the bells and whistles. Featuring six HD televisions, immersive LED lighting, thumping music, and the latest gaming consoles — including PlayStation 5s, Xbox Series Xs, and Nintendo Switches — this video game theater on wheels offers unlimited play access and hours of pure fun.

And thanks to their expert Game Coaches, event organizers don’t have to lift a finger. “We manage the entire experience so hosts can actually enjoy their event,” said a team On The Fly Events. “It’s play without the stress — and fun that meets you wherever you are.”

Building Futures Through Play

Whether kids are racing through a 70-foot inflatable obstacle course or cheering on friends in a game of Mario Kart, On The Fly Events believes in the power of play to build connections and confidence. “Play is the universal language,” said the team. “And when kids are laughing, connecting, and challenging themselves, they’re learning in the most joyful way possible.”

The company’s modular obstacle course can be rented in sections or as one epic stretch of excitement — perfect for schools, festivals, or neighborhood community fun days.

On The Fly Events Joins Downtown Ashland Association as Gold Sponsor

This fall, On The Fly Events is leveling up again — this time as a Gold Sponsor of Downtown Ashland Association (DAA). Locals can catch them in action at two of the town’s biggest events:

“Downtown Ashland Association is so grateful to call On The Fly Events a gold sponsor,” said DAA Executive Director "Coach" Antonio Miller. “Now we can ensure there’s engaging, family-friendly entertainment at our cherished community events. Whether they inflate it or bring their own Game Truck, we know we’re going to have a great time with our neighbors — and with On The Fly Events.”

The Future is Bright — and On The Fly

With a growing reputation and a proven track record of making kids (and parents) say “wow,” On The Fly Events is quickly becoming a go-to partner for anyone planning back-to-school events and community fun days. Because at the end of the day, it’s more than just games. It’s about building futures through play — and growing On The Fly.

🍲 Submit Recipes for New Cookbook

Ashland Town Council member Pam Sopall tests pies at the Ashland Fourth of July Parade and Celebration

Dust off your grandmother’s pie recipe, document that go-to weeknight dinner, or finally share your secret sangria: the Downtown Ashland Association is calling on community members to submit recipes, desserts, and drinks for the 2025 Ashland Cookbook Collection!

Now through November 1, 2025, friends of Ashland are invited to submit their culinary creations at www.ashlandvirginia.com/cookbook. Whether it’s a cherished family favorite, a new twist on a local classic, or a dish that just tastes like “home,” your contribution will help shape a legacy book that captures the town’s unique flavor—literally.

From longtime residents to newcomers and even those simply inspired by Ashland, everyone is welcome to share their recipes. All skill levels are encouraged to participate—whether your dessert is toddler-tested or Top Chef-worthy, we want to include it.

The Iron Horse Restaurant’s hot grill

“This isn’t just a cookbook,” says Downtown Ashland Association’s Director of Operations, Louise “Lou” Keeton. “It’s a snapshot of who we are, what we grow, and how we come together around food. Even though I’m no chef, I’m thrilled to help build something that highlights the people and places behind every bite.”

The 2025 Ashland Cookbook will feature not only recipes from community members but also spotlights on the local farmers, bakers, grocers, and restaurants where ingredients and flavors can be found right here in town.

“We want everything we cook up to feed back into our community,” says Executive Director “Coach” Antonio Miller. That’s why all proceeds from the cookbook will directly support free family events and small business support led by the Downtown Ashland Association, a nationally accredited Main Street America™ nonprofit.

The finished cookbook will be printed locally by Minute Men Press of Ashland, just in time for holiday giving. Whether you're shopping for foodies, hometown lovers, or history buffs, this keepsake will be a gift from the heart of the Center of the Universe.

Don’t wait—submissions close November 1, 2025. Visit www.ashlandvirginia.com/cookbook to add your recipe and become a part of Ashland’s delicious story.

Your Whistle-Stop Guide to Ashland Fourth Fridays: July 25 Edition

Ashland Fourth Fridays in historic downtown Ashland, Virginia

All aboard for an unforgettable evening in the Center of the Universe! 🌍 From toe-tapping tunes and local eats to creative treats and mystery guest sightings, Ashland Fourth Fridays on July 25 from 5–8 PM at Ashland Town Hall Lawn is the perfect summer celebration for all ages. Here’s your guide to the night’s highlights—you’ll want to save this one for your pre-party planning! 🗓🎈

Hanover’s Got Talent winner Hannah Armpriester.

🎸 Let the Music Play
Kick things off at 5 PM sharp with a high-energy showcase from the talented students of Ashland Dance Academy. Tap, jazz, ballet—they’ll be bringing the moves and the sparkle to the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion stage. 💃
Then settle in for an instrumental jam session like no other, as The Blue Guitar performs from 5:15–8 PM with dynamic covers of your favorite pop, R&B, rock, and jazz hits. It’s the kind of summer soundtrack you’ll want to hum all the way home.
Stick around for a grand finale performance by Hanover’s Got Talent soaring singing winner Hannah Armpriester. 🎶🌅

🚚 Savor the Flavor
Ashland’s farm-to-fork restaurants stay packed on Fourth Fridays—and for good reason! If you’re looking for a delicious detour, stop by our visiting food trucks offering everything from crepes to Filipino cuisine and dreamy ice cream delights. 🍨🍴 Come hungry and leave with a happy heart (and a full belly).

And don’t forget to raise a glass to style—Shaken Not Spurred will be serving up marvelous mocktails and retro flair from their converted horse trailer beverage truck. ✨ It’s a sip-and-stroll experience like no other! 🍹🐎

🎨 Local Treasures & Artistic Pleasures
This is your moment to shop small and shine bright! ✨ Browse handcrafted jewelry, original artwork, woodwork, fresh flower bouquets 💐, and all the handmade magic Ashland has to offer. You'll find treasures you won't be able to resist—and won’t be able to find anywhere else.

While you shop, cool off with a complimentary water bottle from Cornerstone Church, who will be spreading kindness and hydration across the lawn. Stop by Downtown Ashland Association’s Cool Zone and mist off July heat.💧💛

🎭 Get a Little Spooky…
For those craving a little mystery, RED VEIN Escape is offering immersive escape room games just steps away from the main lawn. 🔍 Their haunted halls are also the jumping-off point for the Ashland Haunted History Tours, where you can take a spine-tingling stroll through the town’s past. 👻 It’s thrills, chills, and clues—if you dare.

📸 Star Sighting Alert!
Who’s that posing for selfies on Thompson Street? 👀 You’ll have to come see for yourself! Our mystery celebrity guest will be on hand at 110 Thompson Street for photo ops and fan fun. Strike a pose—it might just be your most iconic Fourth Friday moment yet! 🌟📷

Rantrak outside of Tiny Tim’s Trains & Toys at Ashland Fourth Fridays

🚂 Tiny Trains & Painted Ponies
Stop by Tiny Tim’s Trains and Toys for a double dose of delight! Outside, the incredible team from Rantrak will be running their magical model train display—a miniature world that’s sure to wow railroad lovers of all ages. Inside, young creatives can paint their own Breyer Horse model, a neigh-borhood favorite that’s sure to spark imagination. 🐴🎨

🌳 Make It a Picnic Party
Bring a blanket, round up your crew, and spend the evening surrounded by music, movement, and community. Whether you're enjoying live performances, shopping for local gems, or just lounging in the summer sun, Ashland Fourth Fridays is the place to be. 🧺🌞

See you on the lawn, July 25 from 5–8 PM!
You never know what you'll discover—but we do know it’ll be marvelous, musical, and Center of the Universe-level magical. 💫

Ashland’s Own Around The Table Nominated for 2025 BLK RVA Rising Community Impact Award

Kelly Jackson, Ammie Derricot, and the Around The Table team

Downtown Ashland Association is proud to share that Around The Table, a beloved soul food restaurant, catering business, and community gathering space in Ashland, Virginia, has been nominated for the Rising Community Impact Award at the 2025 BLK RVA Community Awards. The award, presented by Wells Fargo, recognizes emerging Black-owned businesses and initiatives that bring fresh, authentic experiences to the region—and Around The Table does just that from the heart of the Center of the Universe.

Kelly Jackson and Ammie Derricot at their restaurant Around The Table

Led by effervescent owner Ammie Derricot, Around The Table serves more than food—it serves connection. Built on the belief that “everyone has a seat at Ammie’s table,” the business offers a welcoming space for family, friendship, and celebration. Whether guests stop by for a comforting meal, book a private event, or join a Gospel Sing-Along on the fourth Sunday of the month, they experience the warmth and community spirit that defines this Ashland gem.

After 27 years in the culinary field, Ammie launched Ammie’s Catering in 2016 with the hope of one day opening a restaurant. In 2021, she and her cousin Kelly Jackson brought that dream to life with Around The Table. The two combined Ammie’s culinary talent and Kelly’s business savvy to create a place that feels like home for locals and visitors alike.

Their work has not gone unnoticed. In addition to being nominated for the 2025 BLK RVA Rising Community Impact Award, Around The Table has been featured internationally on YouTube’s The Brits Try and in The Parisian Sunday, highlighting their growing culinary influence well beyond Ashland’s borders.

Support Our Neighbor

Voting for the Rooted and Rising Community Impact Awards is open now through July 25, 2025, and Around The Table needs our daily support to advance to the final round. Let’s show the region what Ashland is made of by voting each day and sharing the link with friends and family:

The top three finalists will be announced on August 4, and winners will be celebrated at the BLK RVA Community Awards Ceremony.

Celebrate In Person

Ashland neighbors are invited to attend the awards ceremony on Friday, August 22, 2025, at Richmond’s historic Hippodrome Theater. This exciting evening includes a reception with heavy hors d'oeuvres and networking, followed by the awards program honoring those who embody the BLK RVA mission.

  • Date: Friday, August 22, 2025

  • Time: 6:00 PM Reception | 7:00 PM Awards Program

  • Location: The Hippodrome Theater, 528 N 2nd St, Richmond, VA

  • Attire: Cocktail attire (sneakers welcome)

  • Parking: Complimentary with code HOTS at select Parkway Parking lots

Early Bird Tickets (through July 31): $69
General Admission (starting August 1): $89
Get your tickets here.

Let’s show up for Around The Table the way they consistently show up for the community—by voting daily and cheering them on from the audience as they represent Ashland with heart, hospitality, and homegrown pride.

Community showing up at Around The Table’s expansion

K101.2’s Happy Hour Vibes Adds Star Power to Monthly Mocktail Show

Barry, Karie, and Lou on K101.2 Happy Hour Vibes

The drinks are booze-free, but the vibes are bold! K101.2 Pop Richmond’s Happy Hour Vibes is redefining what a networking event can be — blending gourmet bites, signature mocktails, and sparkling conversation with the kind of exposure most organizations only dream about. Now hosted by a dynamic four-person panel — Barry Farmer, Karie Brooks, Chef Gianna Stanley, and Lou Keeton — this monthly live-recorded experience is serving up local flavor in every sense of the word.

What started as a creative twist on happy hour has grown into a full-on, multi-platform media moment. With live studio recordings, podcast streaming, YouTube releases, and social crossposting, Happy Hour Vibes offers businesses, nonprofits, and community organizers a rare trifecta: real-life connection, broadcast storytelling, and digital visibility — all in one night.

Chef Gianna Stanley

Happy Hour Vibes brings the best of a community networking event to the airwaves,” says Lou Keeton, who joins the panel on behalf of the Downtown Ashland Association. “Most small-town organizations wouldn’t be able to afford an exclusive media experience like this. But here, they’re not only networking over Shaken Not Spurred gourmet grilled sandwiches and custom mocktails — they’re reaching over 1.3 million listeners with a feature-rich appearance they can keep sharing long after the night is over.”

Joining Lou is celebrated chef Gianna Stanley, who adds flavor and flair to the show with recipes and real-life kitchen wisdom. “As a professional chef, one of my greatest joys in life is sharing my knowledge to make your time in the kitchen simple and fun,” Stanley says. “I am thrilled at the opportunity to walk guests through my favorite recipes and teach tips and tricks that anyone can use.”

Rounding out the team are Karie Brooks of Shaken Not Spurred — whose Bit + Bougee mocktails headline each recording — and Barry Farmer, founder of Farmer Company Media, who brings humor, warmth, and deep storytelling chops to the mic. Together, this hosting crew delivers an unmatched blend of professional media, neighborly charm, and playful interaction. With segments that include “get-to-know-you” mocktail games and audience shoutouts, every guest becomes part of the show’s rhythm — and part of the Happy Hour Vibe.


Shaken Not Spurred gourmet grilled sandwiches and mocktails

Be Part of the Vibe

For just $75, local leaders and business owners can grab one of 15 exclusive tickets to attend the live networking and recording party. Guests will enjoy handcrafted mocktails and gourmet bites, record a 30-second pitch about their organization, and play lively networking games with the hosts — all captured in a full hour-long episode to be aired on K101.2 Pop Richmond and published on podcast platforms, YouTube, and social media. The experience is fun, interactive, and designed to leave guests with a lasting piece of content they can proudly share again and again.

Can’t make it in person? For $50, organizations can still be part of the show by submitting a 30-second spot to be read by a Happy Hour Vibes host during the recording — a perfect way to amplify your message without stepping up to the mic.

With its one-of-a-kind format and massive reach, Happy Hour Vibes is quickly becoming one of the most cost-effective and memorable ways to introduce your business or cause to a broad and engaged audience.

🎟 Reserve your ticket: www.payit2.com/event/116388
📝 Submit a spot for reading: checkout.square.site
💼 Ready to sip on serious visibility?
Become a Happy Hour Vibes Signature Sponsor and get your brand featured in every episode, across all content, and help local leaders access this unique networking opportunity—plus enjoy Downtown Ashland Association corporate sponsorship benefits.
👉 Become a Signature Sponsor


Karie, Barry, and Lou on K101.2 Happy Hour Vibes

Mark Your Calendar

The first Happy Hour Vibes Recording + Networking Party kicks off:
🗓 Monday, July 28 at 6 PM
📍  Farmer Company Media Studios, 1913 Huguenot Rd, Suite 300, North Chesterfield, VA 23235
🎙 New episodes will be recorded every third Monday of the month

So come hungry, come curious, and come ready to shine. Whether you're tuning in or taking the mic, Happy Hour Vibes is where Ashland’s tastemakers, change-makers, and storytellers come to sip, connect, and be heard.