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Ashwell elected chairman of Old Town organization

Experience Old Town Warrenton’s Board of Directors has elected Will Ashwell, a local lawyer, as its 2021 chairman.

Mr. Ashwell started a three-year term on the Main Street program’s board in 2020. He succeeds Tray Allen as chairman.

He recognized EOTW’s board as an opportunity to help an organization focused on the success of local businesses and community events, Mr. Ashwell said. The pandemic resulted in businesses closures and event cancellations just months after he joined.

“We as a board had to brainstorm and switch gears,” Mr. Ashwell said.

EOTW, for example revamped its signature event, GumDrop Square during the Christmas shopping season. It moved to Gloria’s Listening Room, a performance center, allowing in-person, socially-distanced visits with Santa, minus the traditionally long lines outdoors. Visitors checked in upon arrival and received a text messages when their turns came.

Moving forward, Mr. Ashwell wants to remained focused on supporting businesses and relaunching EOTW’s community events, including 1st Fridays, his favorite, when safe to do so.

A Fauquier native, he lives and works in Old Town.