Virginia Is Like Camelot
“The winter is forbidden till December and exits March the second on the dot. In short, there’s simply not a more congenial spot for happily ever after than here in Camelot.”
Although our world may seem out of sorts and most of the plans we’ve made have been changed or canceled, there’s one thing you can always count on in Virginia — the seasons will change on a dime. Even though we officially have three days left of summer, fall arrived this week in the Commonwealth as we kicked off National Virginia Day with cooler temps and some sprinkles. Many of my friends lament the passing of the summer season, but I welcome the fall.
This week I got a chance to drive across the state and back and realized just how beautiful my beloved Virginia is, even in the rain. For the past seven months, I haven’t seen much outside of these four walls and it was good to be reminded that Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah Valley, rolling hills of Piedmont, and beautiful coastline are tremendous assets that other states simply do not have. Perhaps I have a unique perspective since I lived for a dozen years on the left coast, but I do love the Commonwealth. I love its people and its natural beauty. I love seeing the seasons change. In Los Angeles, I spent six months in a sunny and 70-degree-spring and six months in a stormy El Niño.
This fall, I encourage you to get outside. Go climb a mountain, fish a trout stream, or cruise the Skyline Drive and look at the leaves.
I’ve spent the majority of 2020 indoors and I think that’s one reason why I’ll never take “the great outdoors” for granted again. I’m serious folks, get out there.
Here’s a link to Virginia’s state parks. If you pay Virginia taxes, these spaces belong to you. So why not go use them? Or if you really want to get off the beaten path, you can travel to Camelot in Albemarle County or Camelot in Chesapeake.
Monday, September 14 — B(old) Brands Win
Along with sharing the same musical tastes, Creative Director Art Webb and Copywriter Derek Fair ironically share the same birthday. Since September 13 fell on a Sunday this year, we celebrated their special day 24 hours later via Zoom. Well, we celebrated Art at least. Derek took the day off and gambled away his last paycheck at Rosie’s Gaming Emporium. Better luck next year! #youwinsomeyoulosesome
Tuesday, September 15 — Keeping Spirits High
This week we congratulated Master Distiller Brian Prewitt of A. Smith Bowman Distillery for being appointed to the newly minted Virginia Spirits Board. When asked about the recent recognition on behalf of the Governor, Brian replied, “Being selected for this inaugural board is an honor and I’m looking forward to working with our partners at Virginia ABC helping our Commonwealth’s distilling industry continue to thrive and get the positive attention it deserves.” What better way to celebrate Virginia Spirits Month?
Tuesday was also Tanzanite Tuesdays at Vera’s Fine Jewelers. Check out their Facebook posts because they’ve got some beautiful tanzanite jewelry at incredible prices. And by the way, tanzanite is not the stuff Superman is allergic too. Learn more about the remarkable mineral here.
Wednesday, September 16 — From One Pitch To Another
On Wednesday I had a chance to put on a suit for the second time in the last seven months. We did an in-person pitch for a potential client. I think we did a great job and I’ll let you know who the new client is next week if we win it. If we don’t, I will drinks lots of bourbon and try to forget all about it.
We recently received some great coverage from Compass Entertainment Complex‘s Grand Opening, including an article from Richmond BizSense. Who knew that Virginia’s biggest and best family entertainment complex is actually not in Richmond, but in beautiful Irvington? Click this link to learn more about the Northern Neck‘s newest hub for family fun.
Thursday, September 17 — Happy M+M Anniversary, Molly!
On Thursday we caught the reminisce of Hurricane Sally and even though it rained three days in a row, we got a chance to celebrate a little sunshine as President & COO Molly Whitfield hit a lucky milestone – 13 years with the company. She has been a ray of sunshine in my life since 2007 and we would not be where we are today without her. Congrats, Boss Lady!
On Thursday afternoon I jumped in The Beast and traveled the highways and byways to visit the guys and gals at The Texas Inn — 1) Because I’ve missed them and 2) because I was hungry. COVID-19 has been very tough on our little restaurants in Lynchburg, but I am extra proud of my team for helping us survive the pandemic.
Friday, September 18 — Arrright Start To The Weekend
The Madison+Main team continues to grow and I’m proud to announce that Jr. Graphic Designer Jenna Farley has been promoted from part time to full time. We love her hard work ethic and can-do attitude.
The rain finally cleared and I decided to drive up to the beautiful Shanandoah Valley to pick up my son Jack from JMU. Jack is stepping into the spotlight and got a small acting gig this weekend. But the main reason he’s visiting is so we can both celebrate International Talk Like A Pirate Day tomorrow. My third favorite holiday.
A Few of Our Favorite Events
4308 Hermitage Road | Richmond, VA
October 24, 2020 | TBD
Our good friend, Bobby Kelland from Aflac, is gearing up for his second non-profit bike ride this year on behalf of Andrea Starr and the Forward Foundation. This time, it’s a 50-mile ride from Bryan Park to Ashland and back. The ride will raise money to support single mothers and provide them financial assistance for quality childcare, as well as educational workshops. Donate today online or text “Donate” and the amount to 804-352-2820 (ex: Donate $5) to help him reach his $15,000 goal by October 24.
Master Distiller’s Dinner at A. Smith Bowman Distillery
1 Bowman Drive | Fredericksburg, VA
November 14, 2020 | 6-9 p.m.
Smith Bowman Distillery and Earth Apple LLC have partnered to bring you a unique bourbon experience! Master Distiller Brian Prewitt will start the evening off with a guided tasting of rare Abraham Bowman Limited Edition Whiskies, accompanied by delectable small bites specially selected by Chef Jessica Wilkins. Following the tasting, Chef Jessica will treat guests to a 3-course dinner served with carefully crafted bourbon cocktails. Tickets will cost $125 per person and go on sale October 14 at 10 a.m. via Eventbrite.
Got an upcoming event you want to share? Can we come? Send us the deets!
“Fall is my favorite season in Los Angeles, watching the birds change color and fall from the trees.“
— David Letterman