May 16, 2013

By all accounts, it was a beautiful Sunday afternoon for a bike ride. The Ashland Clunker Cruise has become a spring tradition and not only is it a fun event, but it’s a great reminder of the accessibility of our town. Our streets are perfect for walking, running, stroller-pushing, and bike riding. Our family has found that a walk after dinner is the perfect way to end the day.

Congratulations to David Cook who will be graduating from the University of Virginia this weekend! David has been awarded a fifth-year fellowship in the art department at UVA and is the talented son of Les and Patricia Cook of Virginia Street in Ashland.

Have you seen how beautiful the Randolph-Macon campus is looking these days? They have really done a wonderful job with their new Brock Commons. I know you’ve heard me say this before, but we’re lucky to be living in a little college town. Take a walk over there and see the new construction.

Come dance at the first Ashland Street Party this Saturday, May 18 from 6 to 11 p.m. behind the Ashland Library. Ron Moody and the Centaurs will warm up your feet as we dance under the stars. This is a great way to remind ourselves that summer is just around the corner.

If you have elementary-aged kids and are looking for a wonderful summer camp, visit the website of the Hanover Arts and Activities Center to learn more about their Summer Theater Camp. Kids will learn all about the theater, including acting and staging, make-up and costumes. Campers will also have the opportunity to perform in the ensemble number of the “Fiddler on the Roof” production at the Center. Visit www.hanoverarts.org for a registration form.

Our area is rich in musical talent, and you can be a part of a grass-roots jam session every first and third Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Ashland Coffee and Tea. Amateur folk musicians gather together in the listening room of Ashland Coffee and Tea to play Irish jigs and reels and old time fiddle tunes. Listeners are welcome and musicians of all skill levels are encouraged to participate. Stop by this Saturday, May 18, to listen and learn more.

Registration is now open for the Ashland Barracudas Swim Team and you can register your child online at www.ashlandswim.com. Head coach Kevin Trent and his team will be returning for another great season of fast swimmers, flip-turns, and random history questions.

Call or email me with your Ashland news: (804) 310-5320, ashlandnews@gmail.com. Hope to see you at the dance this Saturday!