1/25/08 Casino Night, Comp. Plan, Jerome Bridges to perform at RMC

There is still time to get your tickets to St. Ann's Casino Night this Saturday. The party starts at 6:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall on S. Snead St. The theme for this year's event is “Hollywood”, so come dressed as if you were walking the red carpet and enjoy an evening of decadent food, fabulous prizes, and all the fake gambling you could want. You don't have to be a Catholic to attend., and I'm sure you'd see many of your friends there. Call the church at 798-5039 for more information.

Tonight the Randolph-Macon Women's basketball team will play Roanoke College here in Crenshaw Gymnasium at 7:00 p.m. It's a great opportunity to see some first class athletes without leaving town.

Register now the the 30th running of the Ashland Railroad Run to be held early this year, on Saturday, March 15th. The 10K course is one of the best around, and you will avoid all of the crowds that they get downtown on Monument Ave. This race started as an RMC event, and used to loop across the train tracks. Several years ago, the course was changed to avoid that tricky crossing, but now “I had to wait for a train” can't be used as an excuse for a slow time! Go to www.hanoverarts.com to register or call Faith Boyle at 798-2728 for more information.

Do you know how Ashland got to be 150 years old and still such a great place to live? Planning! (O.K., maybe a little luck, too.) By coincidence, but appropriate none the less, Ashland will be updating its comprehensive plan as we celebrate our 150th birthday this year. A kick-off meeting for interested members of the community will be held Monday, January 28th at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council chambers. Even if you don't have a speech planned, you should try to attend to hear what others have to say. As the development of Rt. 1 inches closer and closer, what do our town planners envision for that road? How do we want downtown Ashland (Railroad and Center St.) to look 15 years from now? How do we market our town to visitors without selling our souls? These and many other interesting questions will be answered in the coming months.

Mark your calendars now for February 8 and 9 at 7:30 p.m., when Jerome Bridges comes to town to speak at Blackwell Auditorium (RMC Campus). With his exceptional story-telling ability, Mr Bridges will give us first-hand stories of pre-Civil War slavery and Civil Rights activists. Accompanying Mr. Bridges with spirituals and gospel songs from these historic periods will be the George Crawford Memorial Choir from the Providence Park Baptist Church and a Community Chorus including over fifty voices from local church choirs. This event was created and is sponsored by the Hanover Arts and Activities Center (HAAC), with the local Hanover AARP Chapter as co-sponsor, and supported by Dominion Power and Randolph-Macon College. For more information please call Ragan Phillips at 798-9721 or Buddy Kelly at 798-8782.

Happy Birthday to Amy Flagg on January 30. Did you know she's only 25?

I wouldn’t mind these cold gray skies of January so much if there was some snow falling from them. Flurries are pretty, but I want enough snow to cover the ground, with not one blade of grass showing through. Our snow boots are collecting cobwebs, and the snow shovels are being used to hold up a roof in the kid’s clubhouse. I don’t think we even own a scraper for the windshield anymore. I’m hoping that since we are now unprepared, that the snow will come. I want melted snow on my kitchen floor, kid's gloves drying on an open oven door, and the quiet, quiet nights of a blanketed town. Does anyone remember what it's like at night when there's snow on the ground? The moon's reflection is so bright that it's a perfect time for a walk if you bundle up. What's the biggest snow that you can remember? Let me know- I love to hear people's stories. (804) 310-5320, ashlandnews@gmail.com. You can find a complete archive of these columns at www.ashlandnews.blogspot.com. Have a wonderful week.

1/18/08 Snow Falls with Goodbyes, Hanover Idol Deadline, RRR, Catholics Party

This past Tuesday’s weather was enough to make this column almost miss the press. Our fifteen minute blizzard came on a sad day for two families. I went to the funeral of Travis Conner, a 30 year old young man who is so missed by his family and friends. Losing a child is an unspeakable pain, and I cried for his mother and father. That same morning, Mrs. Lucy Stanley was being remembered for her long life here in Ashland by her many, many friends and family. I hope the snow was a beautiful distraction for everyone, and not an inconvenience. It must have come as both families were leaving the reception or the cemetery. I think that Travis would have run out to play in it, and Mrs. Stanley, having seen the snow from her kitchen window, would have called her children and grandchildren to make sure they were watching. My sympathy to both families.

Today is the deadline to register for the Hanover Idols Contest! Auditions will be held at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center on Sunday, January 27, with the final competition on Sunday, February 17th. Go to http://www.hanoverarts.com/ to print out an application and get it to Faith as soon as possible!

The 30th running of the Ashland Railroad Run is on Saturday, March 15th this year. Start your training now for one the prettiest and flattest 10K course around. Don’t drive downtown for the Monument 10K, struggle to find parking, and then try to run in a crowd of 15,000 people. Where’s the fun in that? Go to http://www.hanoverarts.com/ for more information and to register on-line.

Get your ticket now for St. Ann’s Catholic Church’s Casino Night on Saturday, January 26th. You’ll never really understand Catholics until you go party with them. This event is always a lot of fun and is the major fund raiser for St. Ann’s. There will be wonderful food, exceptional socializing, and many exciting silent auction items to bid on. Call the church office at 798-5039 for more information.

Along with celebrating its sesquicentennial (150th birthday) Ashland will also be updating its comprehensive plan this year! A kick-off meeting for interested members of the community will be held Monday, January 28th at 7:00 p.m. in the council chambers. While maybe not as exciting as a birthday party, the comprehensive plan is the blueprint that will keep our town the way we want it for the next 150 years. I can’t stress enough the importance of citizen input and involvement in this process. Even if you live outside the town limits, you are reading this column because you are interested in what goes on here. Come and tell town officials what makes this town special to you.

Do you have any suggestions about ways to make Ashland’s 150th Birthday a spectacular party? Go to the town website: http://www.town.ashland.va.us/ and click on the 150th birthday link to fill out a short survey.

Please stop by the Ashland Library if you have a chance and see all the photographs of Ashlands across the United States. They're all lovely- which is hard to admit because I am very biased and opinionated. We should organize a tour.

Call or email me with you news of our center of the universe: (804) 310-5320, ashlandnews@gmail.com. You can find a complete archive of these columns at
http://www.ashlandnews.blogspot.com/ Have a wonderful week.

1/11/08 Ashlands of the US, Doug Wilder to Visit, 30th Annual RR Run, Hanover Idols Deadline

I hope you’ve all had a chance to visit the website dedicated to Ashland 150th Birthday- http://www.ashland150.com/ is filled with information and events that will be going on this year to celebrate this momentous occasion. This will be an easy year for me as I’ll never have a lack of information to write about!

Although we certainly are special, our name is not unique! This Wednesday, January 16th, Betty Carol Stevenson will tell us about all the other Ashlands in the United States. How many Ashlands are there? Are they all named after Henry Clay’s hometown in Kentucky? Are any of them as cool as we are? Not likely. Come to the Ashland Library at 7:30 to find out the answers. Call the library at 798-4072 for more information.

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King’s birthday on Tuesday, January 15th, Mayor Douglas Wilder will speak at Randolph-Macon’s Blackwell Auditorium at 12 noon. This event is free and open to the public. There will also be a musical presentation by R-MC’s Yjima Gospel Choir. Come early to get a good seat- or any seat at all. Call 752-3712 for more information.

Registration is now open for the 30th running of the Ashland Railroad Run on March 15th, 2008. The day begins at 8:30 am for the Kid’s Mile Fun Run, followed by the 10K Run at 9:00 am and the 5K Fun Walk at 9:15. Why run packed like sardines on Monument Avenue when you have room to breathe on our fair streets? Go to http://www.hanoverarts.com/ for a registration form.

Are you a star waiting to be discovered? The deadline for registration to participate in the Hanover Idols Contest is next Friday- January 18th! Go to http://www.hanoverarts.com/ for guidelines and an entry form. Call the Center at 798-2728 with your questions.

As a part of the 150th celebration, an Ashland Yearbook will be assembled to tell the stories of our citizens, churches, businesses, cemeteries, military, and organizations. If you’re a “come-here”, have lived here all your life, or are reading this from far away, please tell your family’s story of living in Ashland in 300 words or less and include a picture. This will be a great historical document of the people living in our town. For years to come, scholars will refer to it in their research. Go to the website (http://www.ashland150.com/) or call 798-7123 with your questions.

There’s a new club in town for seniors- “Ashland Recycled Teenagers” who are proving that you don’t have to be young to have fun. Mark your calendars for the Omni Park Place Talent Show on February 1st at 11:30 am in the Social Hall at Duncan Memorial Church. Watch this space for more information to come.

Charles, have we found the time capsule yet? Send me your news by calling (804) 310-5320, or email ashlandnews@gmail.com. You can also find a record of all these columns at http://www.ashlandnews.blogspot.com/.

1/4/08 Happy New Year, Can you say "Sesquicentenial"?

I hope that everyone had a wonderful holiday with lots of food, friends, and family. I am writing this on New Year's Eve where I have assembled all the ingredients to cook the traditional black-eyed peas and stewed tomatoes tomorrow, although I really can't stand either dish. But, I have an over-active imagination, and worry about the dire consequences that I might wreak on my family if I don't make them eat those lucky foods. My mother used to put a dime in the dish of peas and the person who got the dime on their plate would have extra luck in the new year. I'm sure that someone would choke on it at our house though, so we'll settle for just a little luck from eating a spoon or two.

Two thousand and eight will be a busy year around Ashland with the celebration of our town's 150th birthday. It's also the 150th birthday of First Baptist Church, and the 40th for the Hanover Arts and Activities Center. You can keep up on all the events by visiting the website: http://www.ashland150.com/. On Wednesday, January 16th at 7:00 pm., Betty Carol Stevenson will share stories, photos, and her research of all the towns with the name of "Ashland"in the U.S. I know of the one in Kentucky, and one in Oregon- isn't there one in Massachusetts? Refreshments will be served, and the event is sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

Mark your calendars now for the St. Ann's Catholic Church Casino Night on Saturday, January 26th. Tickets are available tfrom parishioners and you can call the church office for more information: 798-5039.

There are two women's basketball games this coming week at R-MC: Tuesday, January 8th against Catholic University, and then Friday, the 11th against Guilford. Both games begin at 7 pm in Crenshaw Gym. This is some of the best best basketball around- and it's right in your backyard. These young women have won the Old Dominion Athletic Conference Award for three straight years. I promise it'll be a great game.

The deadline to apply for the second annual Hanover Master Gardeners' Home Gardening Series has been extended to Friday, January 4, 2008. Interested persons can apply by calling 804-752-4310 or e-mailing pbland52@vt.edu. The eight-session series will be held on Saturdays from January 12 through March 1, 2008. Times will be from 9 to 11 am with the classes held in the Department of Social Services' meeting room in the Hanover Human Service Center on Washington Highway in Ashland. The classes will focus on topics of particular interest to the home gardener and will be taught by Hanover Master Gardeners.

There are still some 2008 Ashland calendars available at Town Hall for the affordable price of $10 each. These calendars are filled with wonderful pictures of our town and lots of helpful phone numbers. Stop by the Planning Office for your copy.

Does anyone know if snow is coming? We've all forgotten what it looks like and will have to travel north for this kids to go sleigh riding. I am keeping my fingers crossed for a nice snow storm- just enough to close schools but not pull down the power lines. Call or email me with your Ashland news: (804) 310-5320, or email ashlandnews@gmail.com. You can also find a record of all these columns at http://www.ashlandnews.blogspot.com/.

12/28/07 Christmas Poem

As a Christmas present
I wrote this for you
To look back on the year
From my point of view.

This space had been empty
For quite a long time,
The Neighborhood Network
Had left Ashland behind.

With no one to write
Ashland’s news and events
The section was missing
Important contents!

Greg Glassner put an ad
In the classified section.
I saw it, and called him-
He said, with reflection:

“You must write about
Parties, birthdays, and races,
New babies, and concerts,
Historical places;

Library fundraisers,
PTA bakes sales,
Redistricting Meetings,
With colorful details.

As long or as short,
That will be up to you
But by Monday evening,
You must be through.”

That was in April,
Eight months ago-
And the fun in this job
Has continued to grow!

Writing these lines
Has been such a lark
I’ve loved every word,
And each question mark.

But this column is good
Because of you all,
The stories appear
With each telephone call.

So, thank you, dear Ashland
For reading my words
You’ve increased my happiness
At least by two-thirds!

May this year bring you each
A good life- first rate;
My sweet town, you deserve
A wonderful, wonderful 2008!
-Meriwether Gilmore
(804) 310-5320
ashlandnews@gmail.com

12/21/07 Christmas Caroling, Leroy Foster, Ms. Harris & Ms. Winkler

Christmas Caroling in Ashland was a cold event this past Monday, but that’s the way that it should be in December. Bundled in hats and scarves, we gathered near the quiet fountain in front of Town Hall and sang with Donna Whiteway, Lorie Foley, Patrick and Casey Warren, Hayes Handley, and Sue Watson. It’s funny, we hear those songs on the radio starting in November, but how often do we really belt them out? We caroled to the fire department where we sang “Silent Night” and watched the firefighters return from a call. I’m sure that we were all thinking the same thing: “Let them have a quiet night tonight”. From there we hurried to the warmth of the Hanover Arts and Activities Center where Faith Boyle and Doris Hassel waited for us with hot cider, coffee, and two tables full of sweets. Patrick Warren and Anna Edleman graced us with their voices while we warmed our toes under those old radiators and readied ourselves to go out and sing some more. Madison, Aiden, and Carter Spence were there, along with Madison and Caitlin Brown, Seth and Max Foster, Raelynn Maier, Annika and Corrina Cline, Meade Riehl, Susannah and Daphne Gilmore, and George and Ethan Stiles. It will be interesting to watch these kids of Ashland grow up together. I hope they remember these Christmases of their childhood as nearly perfect, and tell their friends what a great time they had growing up here.

My person-of-the-week is Mr. Leroy Foster, Sr. If you drive through town in the mornings of afternoons, then you’ve seen him standing by the railroad tracks to make sure that our school buses cross safely. He also helps relieve the traffic congestion caused by four roads intersecting with two railroad tracks. When the school buses aren’t running, Mr. Foster provides Ashland with our very own taxi cab! I think that’s extraordinary because usually a little town like ours wouldn’t have a service like that. Roll down your window and wish Mr. Foster a Merry Christmas when you see him, and call him when you need a ride – 798-7873

The Town needs volunteers and suggestions to help plan and prepare for the sesquicentennial celebration. Suggestions may be dropped in suggestion boxes placed around town or mailed to the Town of Ashland, P.O. Box 1600, Ashland, VA 23005. Those who wish to volunteer to be on a committee may get more information by calling Town Manager Charles Hartgrove at (804) 798-9219 or Rob Stiles, Team 150 president, at (804) 798-6611.

Three Cheers to two wonderful music teachers: Ms. Harris at Henry Clay Elementary, and Ms. Winkler at Gandy Elementary. They both worked for weeks to stage magnificent Christmas programs with the second and forth graders. How thrilling to listen to those children sing with such enthusiasm! It is clear that both of those teachers are greatly loved by the children they teach.

“May happiness pursue you,
Catch you often,
And, should it lose you,
Be waiting ahead,
Making a clearing for you.”
Salute by A.R. Ammons

Have a wonderful holiday! Call me if you need me: 310-5320, or email ashlandnews@gmail.com. You can also find a record of all these columns at http://www.ashlandnews.blogspot.com/.

12/14/07 Christmas Caroling, Brass Concert, Woodcarver Market

“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas...” Have you driven past the Ashland Police Dept. at night? Why drive all the way to the botanical garden when we have a fest of lights on our own streets? Henry Clay St. is looking especially festive this year. Pile everyone in the car and take a spin around town.

Three cheers to our local Garden Clubs who outdid themselves this past weekend decorating the homes for the bi-annual Christmas House Tour. They took such care to let the personality of the houses show through in the gorgeous flower arrangements. Many thanks also to the owners of those homes on the tour for opening their houses, which raised money for the Hanover Arts and Activities Center. “Oh there’s no place like home for the holidays…”

I hope to see everyone this Monday, December 17th, in front of Town Hall at 7:00 p.m. for Community Caroling! This is your chance to share the Christmas spirit with your neighbors as we carol to the Arts and Activities Center and then along the streets of the Ashland Historic District. Please bring a flashlight if you can. Refreshments and lyrics will be provided to all. Call 798-2728 for more information. “We wish you a Merry Christmas, We wish you a Merry Christmas, We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year...”

The Richmond Brass and Percussion Consort with George Tuckwiller, Conductor along with special guest Lisa Edward Burrs will present a concert of traditional and popular Christmas music at St. Ann’s Catholic Church on Tuesday, December 18 at 7:30 p.m. This concert will benefit the Central Virginia Food Bank. There is no admission charge; a donation of non-perishable foods or money for the Central Virginia Food Bank is requested. “Good King Wenceslas looked out on the feast of Stephen…when a poor man came in sight, gathering winter fuel.”

Woodcarver and Ashland resident Tom Lowe is hosting a Holiday Market this weekend featuring his carved wood bowls, platters and spoons. Tom has been a woodcarver for 24 years and has taken up making the bowls just in the last 2 years. You might have seen his work at the Heavenly Creations Art Show at St. James or seen his bowls at The Caboose. See Tom’s art along with other local artists on Saturday, December 15 from 11 am - 4 pm at 12341 Wildwood Blvd. (Oak Hill Estates). Other items that will be available are Tie Dye Clothing, Handmade Jewelry, Indonesian Coffee, Scented Soy Candles and more. The rain date is Sunday, 16th from 11 am - 4pm. “On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me a partridge in a pear tree…”

Teen Movie and Pizza Night is tonight- Friday December 14th- beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Ashland Library. “Rockin’ around the Christmas Tree at the Christmas party hop...”
I hope that your decorations are up and many things are marked off your shopping list. May you each have the time to sit quietly with a child, a friend, or your true love, and be thankful for this lovely time of year. Tell me your holiday stories of life in Ashland: 310-5320, or email ashlandnews@gmail.com. You can also find a record of all these columns at www.ashlandnews.blogspot.com.