ILoveAshlandVA.com Launches as the Digital Front Door to Ashland

ILoveAshlandVA.com in historic downtown Ashland, Virginia.

There’s a brand-new way to plan, shop, and support Ashland first—introducing ILoveAshlandVA.com, a one-stop hub designed to showcase everything the Center of the Universe has to offer. The visionary behind the project is none other than Ashland-famous entrepreneur Charmain Fougnie of XtraSweet Digital, whose creative spirit has already brought our community everything from XtraSuite Salon Studios (complete with Heated Zero-G Massage Chairs!) to PMS Parties—Paint, Massage, and Sip nights that mix artistry, relaxation, and good company.

Charmain Fougnie at the ribbon cutting of XtraSuite Salon Studios

Now, Fougnie has turned her talents toward a new mission: connecting residents, visitors, and businesses with a single click.

“First, I am a resident of Ashland,” Fougnie shared. “My husband and I moved here in 2018, and we both agreed—we found the home and town that we love. But even more than the town, it’s the people who make Ashland so special. I wanted to create a space that celebrated Ashland’s unique charm and made it easier for small businesses to thrive online.”

More Than Just a Directory

At first glance, ILoveAshlandVA.com might look like an online directory—but it’s so much more. Think of it as Ashland’s own Etsy, OpenTable, Angi, Airbnb, and Craigslist rolled into one. Businesses can build custom profiles, showcase products and services, accept bookings, promote events, sell merchandise, and even list rental spaces. Visitors, meanwhile, can explore events, shop local goods, book appointments, and find trusted service providers—all from one convenient platform.

ILoveAshlandVA.com vending at Downtown Ashland Association’s Ashland Fourth Fridays

“Businesses have been spread across countless apps and websites,” said Fougnie. “ILoveAshlandVA.com brings it all together. Whether you’re a boutique, a salon, a venue, or a vendor, the tools are there to help your business grow.”

Building Community Connections

Since its early development, the platform has been working hand-in-hand with the Downtown Ashland Association (DAA) to build free profiles for local businesses.

“At last! When my friends and neighbors ask me, ‘What’s happening in the Center of the Universe?’ I finally have one central place to send them to,” said Louise Keeton, Director of Operations for DAA. “ILoveAshlandVA.com is a hub where customers can shop, book, explore, and connect, and businesses can sell, promote, and grow—all in one place. It’s a dream for our neighbors and everyone hopping off the Amtrak train into our historic downtown.”

Kickoff Webinar

To help businesses and neighbors get acquainted with the site, ILoveAshlandVA.com is hosting a free online Lunch & Learn Webinar on Wednesday, October 1, at 12 PM. The session will demo key features, explain how the platform can save businesses money on costly subscriptions, and show customers how to plan their upcoming holiday season through the site. Registration is open now at ILoveAshlandVA.com.

A Vision for Ashland

For Fougnie, the project is about more than just convenience—it’s about pride of place.

“My goal is for ILoveAshlandVA.com to become the go-to resource for anyone wanting to explore, support, and engage with the Ashland area,” she explained. “I hope it boosts local business, drives tourism, and strengthens community pride. Ultimately, I want it to serve as a digital front door to our vibrant and growing community.” And judging by the early enthusiasm from businesses and residents alike, Ashland is ready to open that door. 

In addition to launching ILoveAshlandVA.com, Fougnie now serves as Publisher of Neighbors of Ashland magazine, a community publication delivered directly to local households. This dual role underscores her commitment to providing both print and digital platforms where businesses can connect with residents, share their stories, and grow. Community members and businesses interested in advertising opportunities or contributing to the magazine are encouraged to reach out.

Charmain Fougnie, Publisher – Neighbors of Ashland Magazine & Founder – ILoveAshlandVA.com
(804) 554-1819
cfougnie@iloveashlandva.com

School After Hours Consulting Calls on Community to Help Youth Find Their Voice Through Podcasting

Jenice Lee hosting School: After Hours

School After Hours Consulting, a youth development agency dedicated to equipping young people with the skills and confidence they need to succeed, is calling on the community to rally around a heartfelt need: 6–10 laptops for their youth podcasting program by October.

For many young people, after-school programs are more than just a place to go when the bell rings—they are a safe haven, a launching pad, and a place where voices too often unheard finally find a microphone. School After Hours Consulting has long been at the forefront of ensuring those voices are amplified. From planning and training for out-of-school-time program providers to delivering professional development for educators, their mission is simple: to give every child a chance to thrive.

This October, that mission comes alive in a special way. School After Hours Consulting is offering a podcasting program to youth in the Richmond area. Young people from afterschool programs will take their first steps into the world of podcasting—learning not just how to tell their stories, but how to shape narratives, edit audio, and speak with confidence in today’s digital age. But right now, the program cannot begin without one vital resource: laptops.

“Imagine a child with a story burning inside them, but no way to share it,” said the School After Hours Consulting team. “That’s what we’re trying to change. These laptops aren’t just tools; they’re doorways to self-expression, career skills, and the belief that their voices matter.”

Community members, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to donate new or gently used laptops to meet this urgent need. Each contribution will go directly into the hands of youth who are ready to learn, create, and be heard.

Beyond podcasting, School After Hours Consulting continues to shape the future of youth programming through training, management support, and curriculum development. Their School After Hours Podcast, released twice a month, also highlights the triumphs and challenges of afterschool programs nationwide—raising awareness for a field that often goes unrecognized but makes an immeasurable difference.

With October fast approaching, the clock is ticking. Every laptop donated is more than hardware—it is hope, opportunity, and empowerment for a child who deserves to be heard. 
----
Contact: Jenice Lee
Educational Consultant for School After Hours Consulting, LLC
804-404-6475
info@sahconsulting.org
https://www.schoolafterhours.com/

“Off the Rails” Craft Beer & Wine Festival Returns with Brews, Boos & BBQ

Off the Rails Craft Beer and Wine Festival in at historic Hanover Arts and Activities Center

Ashland’s most spirited fall tradition is back—and bigger than ever. The Hanover Arts & Activities Center (The Center), in partnership with the Downtown Ashland Association (DAA), will host the annual “Off the Rails” Craft Beer & Wine Festival: Brews, Boos, and BBQ on Saturday, October 25 from 3–7 p.m. This beloved community fundraiser combines craft beer, wine, barbecue, live music, and small-town charm, all in support of arts and community programming in the Center of the Universe. 

The partnership with DAA expands the festival’s footprint beyond The Center’s front lawn at 500 South Center Street. Visitors will enjoy food trucks, craft and business vendors, lawn games, and live music from Buckville Hootenanny. Families can join in a costume contest for all ages, and Ashland residents with heavy trick-or-treat traffic can come and get a free bag of candy from Downtown Ashland Association’s booth.

Festival Highlights include:

  • 🎃 $15 entry (advance tickets online); free admission for under 21

  • 🍺 Craft beer pours: $7 full / $4 half

  • 🍷 Wine Tent with James River Cellars: $8 pours / $25 bottles

  • 🍖 Local barbecue from Bourne Rogue + food trucks

  • 🎶 Live music by Buckville Hootenanny

  • 🏆 Costume contests + lawn games for all ages

  • 🛍️ Vendor market hosted by Downtown Ashland Association

To make the day even more accessible, Amtrak Virginia serves as the ultimate designated driver. Passengers can order a Center of the Universe Brewski on board, then step off the train in downtown Ashland—just steps from The Center. Amtrak will host a booth with giveaways and a chance to win free tickets. After the festival ends, the celebration continues with a downtown “after crawl,” featuring Caboose Market and Café, Origin Beer Company, Ash & Olive with Cask and Stave specials, the Iron Horse Restaurant, and the Henry Clay Inn.

“We are thrilled to once again bring neighbors and visitors together for ‘Off the Rails,’” said Brenda Clarke, president of The Center. “This partnership with the Downtown Ashland Association makes it even more impactful. Not only is it a celebration of community, creativity, and connection—it’s a vital fundraiser that helps sustain the arts and cultural programming the Center provides year-round.”

Event Details:
 What: Off the Rails Craft Beer & Wine Festival: Brews, Boos, and BBQ
When: Saturday, October 25, 2025 | 3–7 p.m.
Where: Hanover Arts & Activities Center, 500 South Center Street, Ashland, VA 23005
Price: $15 advance entry (online tickets) | Free for under 21
More Info: https://www.hanoverarts.net/events/off-the-rails-2025

Happy Hour Vibes Sip-Up Mocktails, Laughter, and Community Connections

The latest Happy Hour Vibes networking and recording party brought the airwaves to life with laughter, fresh ideas, and Shaken Not Spurred’s signature mocktails. Guests arrived at Farmer Company Media Studios ready to mix business with fun, and left with new friends, creative collaborations, and content destined for over 1.3 million listeners on K101.2 POP Richmond.

Shaken Not Spurred on Happy Hour Vibes

As the evening kicked off, guests grabbed a Shaken Not Spurred Lemon Palomino—a bright blend of lemonade, honey syrup, ginger beer, and rosemary—and settled in with subs donated by Jersey Mike’s of Ashland. Before long, the games began. “If you’re not carrying duct tape and you work events, you need to go back to event school,” one guest laughed during a round of Never Have I Ever. Another raised their glass during Sip or Serve and offered a retirement toast so convincing the room roared with applause.

Ederis Martinez-Cunion of Your Path Counseling Center

That mix of sincerity and silliness is exactly what keeps people coming back. Ederis Martinez-Cunion of Your Path Counseling Center shared her excitement about cooler weather: “We love offering walk-and-talk therapy, and fall makes those sessions even better. We’re also launching Creating Calm with Montpelier Art Center, an art therapy group for teens to reduce stress and anxiety.” Her words struck a chord, showing how wellness and creativity overlap in both counseling and community.

Caroline Sweeney of Minuteman Press of Ashland

Caroline Sweeney of Minuteman Press of Ashland kept the energy going with a reminder that old-school outreach still works. “Mailing is not dead—you still see an incredible return on investment. That’s why we’re launching our first-ever Mail-a-thon, offering 20% off all printing for mailing campaigns in September, plus free design.” The crowd buzzed with ideas about how to connect their messages to more neighbors.

Then came music. 2025 Ashland Song Contest winner Tammy Hart Mosby described her triumph as “living my dream job right now. I’m honored to represent Ashland and the community.” She shared the story behind her song 1800Amtrak to Ashland, inspired by her mom’s journey from Florida: “She could hardly wait to get here.” Her voice, like her story, reminded everyone why Ashland’s creative heartbeat is so strong.

The Glass Guys spoke about their own goals, smiling as they looked ahead: “We’re connecting with more Richmond contractors while continuing projects across Ashland, Fredericksburg, and beyond. Our goal is 300 five-star Google reviews.” Their ambition resonated with the entrepreneurial crowd, many of whom nodded in agreement—everyone there was building something, and celebrating together made it all the sweeter.

On the Fly Events previewed their fall lineup, inviting guests to come bounce, play, and celebrate at SpookyFun Fest on October 10 and Grand IlluminAshland on November 22. “We love bringing the party to you,” they said, highlighting their inflatables, game truck, and event services that make community gatherings seamless.

Even Amtrak Virginia got in on the fun, teasing their September Train Safety Awareness Month giveaways. “We’ll have conductor hats for kids, Virginia is for Rail Lovers pins, and even a chance to win two round-trip Amtrak tickets starting and ending in Virginia,” said Courtney Standerfer of Siddall. The promise of prizes had guests circling the Hanover Arts and Activities Center date on their calendars.

Throughout the evening, POWER UP Productions captured every toast, giggle, and game, turning the night into a visual reminder of what happens when networking feels less like work and more like play.

By the time the mics were turned off, everyone agreed—this wasn’t just another networking event. Happy Hour Vibes is a place where business owners share their passions, laughter fills the room, and duct tape wisdom somehow makes perfect sense.

🎧 Listen in on the fun! Catch the full episode of Happy Hour Vibes every Thirsty Thursday on K101.2 POP Richmond, streaming live at 👉 farmercompanymedia.com/k1012pop or anytime at 👉 AshlandVirginia.com/HappyHourVibes.

💼 Be part of the next party! The Happy Hour Vibes Networking and Recording Party happens the final Monday of every month at Farmer Company Media Studios. Record content, build connections, and sip signature mocktails—all while potentially reaching over a million listeners.

🎟️ Upcoming parties: Monday, September 29 & Monday, October 27. Secure your ticket or book a 30-second ad read today by the Happy Hour crew at:
👉AshlandVirginia.com/HappyHourVibes.

Foster The Mic Amplifies Voices and Builds Families

Barry Farmer with three of his foster children.

The Farmer Media Company, in partnership with Downtown Ashland Association and K101.2 POP Richmond, proudly presents Foster The Mic—a week-long broadcast campaign dedicated to raising awareness for foster care and adoption.

Across Central Virginia, more than 1.3 million listeners will hear the powerful stories of foster youth, families, and the superheroes who advocate for them—guaranteeing that these voices are not just heard, but uplifted.

Barry Farmer on Happy Hour Vibes. Photo by POWER UP Productions

This isn’t the first time Farmer Media Company, K101.2 POP Richmond, and Downtown Ashland Association have worked together to bring families closer through the power of media. K101.2 POP Richmond is a proud sponsor of Downtown Ashland Association, helping amplify the Association’s mission of building community through creativity, small business, and family-focused events. Farmer Media Company, a Gold Sponsor of the Association, is a media powerhouse creating uplifting content to celebrate and elevate small businesses and local talent.

Their show, Happy Hour Vibes, streams on K101.2 POP Richmond, featuring fun networking games and signature Shaken Not Spurred mocktails. They answered the call of local musicians seeking a radio and streaming platform with the Ashland Song Contest—producing the first volume Songs from the Center of the Universe, and now recording the second volume, giving local musicians a platform to share original work with a wide-reaching audience.

“Our hope is that every child feels like family in downtown Ashland,” says Antonio “Coach” Miller, Executive Director of Downtown Ashland Association. “So we’re offering free tickets to the Happy Hour Vibes Networking and Recording Party on Monday, September 29, and Monday, October 27, so that foster children, families, and organizations can reach new ears and hearts. Just email Lou@AshlandVirginia.com to claim your seat.”

While Downtown Ashland Association is offering their support of Foster The Mic by sponsoring free seats at Happy Hour Vibes Networking and Recording Parties, Farmer Media Company and K101.2 POP Richmond are creating ways for sponsors to not only reach millions of listeners but also uplift their brand’s voice alongside the voices of foster families and organizations.

Sponsoring Foster The Mic means becoming part of this dynamic network—where storytelling, community support, and strategic promotion go hand in hand. When you become a Foster Fest sponsor, your organization not only gains unparalleled exposure but also demonstrates a deep commitment to children and families. Sponsorship packages are designed to meet businesses where they are, while maximizing impact.


Why Sponsor Foster The Mic?

  • Massive Reach & Exposure – Your brand featured on-air, online, and across social media.

  • Community Goodwill – Proceeds benefit nonprofits serving foster youth.

  • Cause Alignment – Show your audience that your company cares about families and community.

  • Cross-Promotion – Amplified through The Barry Farmer Morning Show with Sharon Lizzy, a nationally syndicated broadcast led by Barry Farmer, a recognized foster care advocate.


Sponsorship Opportunities

Vendor Level – $150

  • 25 total 30-second Radio Commercial Ads

  • Social Media Announcement

  • Radio Announcement

  • Logo Placement in Special Edition Magazine

Bronze Sponsor – $550

  • 40 total Standard (30-second Commercial Ads)

  • 1 Promotional Radio Interview

  • 10 Branding Radio Ads

  • 1/12 size Ad in Special Edition Magazine

Silver Sponsor – $1,250

  • 80 Branding Ads

  • 30 Live Read Commercial Ads

  • 1 Promotional Interview

  • Logo Placement on our Website

  • 1/4 size Ad in Special Edition Magazine

Gold Sponsor – $2,550

  • 120 total Standard (30-second Commercial Ads)

  • 60 Branding Ads

  • 40 Live Read Commercial Ads

  • 1 Promotional Interview

  • 1 Morning Show Takeover

  • Logo Placement on Marketing Flyer

  • Logo Placement on our Website

  • 1/2 size Ad in Special Edition Magazine

Be Part of the Change

Foster care is more than a system—it’s a community. By sponsoring Foster The Mic, your business ensures that every child’s story has the chance to be heard, and every family’s journey is honored.

Contact:
 Connect@FarmerCompanyLLC.com
804-243-0731
1913 Huguenot Rd, Suite 300
North Chesterfield, VA 23235

Foster The Mic
 October 20–24, 2025
Broadcasting on K101.2 POP Richmond & The Barry Farmer Morning Show with Sharon Lizzy
 Reaching 1.3 Million Listeners Across Central Virginia