Meet this week's guest editor, Mike King! He's the voice, face, and CEO behind MIKEKINGBIZ, a social enterprise media company increasing brand awareness and revenue for purpose-driven individuals and organizations. You also likely know Mike from On the MIC with MIKE RVA, a daily business show on ESPN 106.1 FM. To the surprise of many, Mike describes himself as a true introvert and he credits his wife Donna for helping him become the recognizable voice for small business owners that he is today. Together, the duo are known for always paying it forward and they can regularly be found around town making a positive impact on the lives of others. Whether its live on the air as part of his radio show or quietly behind the scenes, Mike is an unwavering force supporting many of our region's most impactful missions, campaigns, and causes. And this week, we're lucky enough to have Mike make his personal recommendations for upcoming events and other ways to explore and celebrate this place we love to call home.
Take it away, Mike...
Junior Achievement
at Sloop John B
The mission of Junior Achievement (JA) is near and dear to my heart – to inspire and prepare young people for success! Tonight, JA will host a celebration of the end of an amazing school year at the Junior Achievement Giveback Night at Sloop John B Island Style Taco Bar in Regency Square. Enjoy a delicious meal anytime between 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM and 10% of your food and non-alcoholic beverage purchases will be donated to JA. I hope to see you there!
Also happening tonight, I'll be hanging out at Westchester Commons as their Concert Series jumps "across the pond” with a performance from The English Channel! Hailed as the Best Tribute Band of 2023 via The Rammies, The English Channel plays favorite British hits of the 1960s and 1970s like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Who, The Moody Blues, Yes, The Kinks, Queen, and many, many others. The concert will be held outdoors from 5:30 - 8:30 PM at the Westchester Concert Field. Best of all, it's free to attend and refreshments are available for purchase from Sedona Taphouse and Napa Kitchen & Wine. Proceeds from sales will benefit Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia!
Vitals:
The English Channel LIVE / Westchester Commons / 15786 WC Main Street, Midlothian, VA / Thursday, June 15, 5:30 - 8:30 PM
Chesterfield Chamber
Annual Golf Classic
The Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce's Golf Classic aligns with what I do every day; it offers a great opportunity to network, have fun, and enjoy a beautiful day outside with colleagues and clients. During this popular Chesterfield tournament, players vie for fun and prizes while making new business connections! Golfers enjoy a round of golf, contests, and a reception. The Tournament is a Captain's Choice format with individual players encouraged to sign up to then be added to teams.
At MIKEKINGBIZ, the foundational core belief is that Businesses Can Help Society Be Better. And it's the only business media organization operating daily using the power of TV and Radio. Mike can be heard on ESPN Richmond Radio 106.1 FM between 5:00 - 7:00 AM Monday - Friday, International Business Growth Radio 10:00 - 11:00 AM Saturday, and CW Richmond TV Wednesday & Friday between 5:00 - 5:30 AM. Mike's venture is BBB Accredited and the recipient of this year's Chesterfield Small Business of The Year Award. In 2022, Mike donated 24,000 minutes of free airtime to non-profits and businesses to share their message. Reach out to Mike to be featured On the Mic with Mike!
Meet this week's guest editor, Tre. Charles. Tre. is an alternative/indie soul artist who dives into the depths of his soul and invites you into his world with an expressive blend of warm and soulful undertones, profound and powerful lyrics, and emotive crooning. Growing up along the East Coast, moving from city to city, Tre. has been exposed to a myriad of different cultures. Through these experiences he has cultivated a sound of his own, paying homage to his nomadic upbringing. With hints of avant-garde R&B, modern/indie rock, and ambient soul, Charles’ honest and thought-provoking music has the ability to make every performance feel like a transformative experience. This week, Tre. is serving up his top picks for not-to-be-missed community events in Richmond!
Take it away, Tre...
Live
& Let Live
The Live & Let Live Fest brings mental health, growth, unity, and acceptance to the forefront. The Fest incorporates speakers, resources, vendors, and live music with a one-of-a-kind line-up, including two stages for musical performances! Best of all, the event is free and open to the public. Throughout the day, Feel Good RVA will be accepting donations in support of mental health services including the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Vitals:
Tang & Biscuit / 3406 West Moore Street / Saturday, June 10, 3:00 - 10:00 pm
Richmond
Night Market
In the heart of the arts and culture scene of Richmond, this monthly open-air night market has something for everyone. The Richmond Night Market is held every second Saturday of summer at the historic 17th Street Market and features 40+ local vendors. The event also offers a live DJ, live band, makerspace, kids corner, and other creative experiences throughout the evening.
Vitals:
Richmond Night Market / 17th Street Market - 100 N 17th St. / Saturday, June 10, 5:00 - 9:00 pm
Rooftop DJ:
Matthew E. White
Common House Richmond is welcoming back singer, songwriter, producer, arranger, Matthew E. White for an evening rooftop DJ set. White, a founder and co-owner of indie RVA-based record label, Spacebomb, has collaborated with touring acts including Justin Vernon, Hiss Golden Messenger, Sharon Van Etten, and eventually...me (when he gets around to it)! Matthew will be playing a mix of relaxed, unhurried, poolside grooves...think, palm trees in the Philippines and fresh fruit in your cocktail. Vibe out with this personally curated mix of music to make you want to move, but not so much you’ll spill your poolside libations!
Tre's newest project Currently. highlights the nuances of Tre. Charles as an artist through a lens of vulnerability. Aiming to bring honesty and insight to the forefront of the conversation, which hopefully will inspire and sustain growth. This EP dives into the realms of self awareness via insecurity, mental health, masculinity, and introspection all to the soundscape of lush alternative/indie instrumentation preformed with soulful and intentional vocals.
“A lot of times as people we don’t give each other the room to be vulnerable and it’s seen as 'not cool' which pushes the negative narratives and reinforces old tropes that are not conducive to growth in our society. At times in order to move forward, we need to let go.” — Tre. Charles
Meet this week's guest editor, Beth Anne Booth, who serves as the Dir. of Exhibitions for Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. Connecting people to the power of plants through the mediums of art and impactful community events is what drives her. Along her path to the Garden, Beth Anne worked with some of Richmond’s vibrant arts and culture organizations, including the Valentine Museum, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, and the Richmond Symphony. While immersed in the work of the various missions of these cultural nonprofits, Beth Anne was introduced to the Richmond community, and she was hooked from that point on.
Beth Anne is also an artist, a writer, and an advocate for wellness for all. You can find her writing, meditations, and more at Healing Whole RVA. She believes that the Richmond community is unlike any other...bringing people closer to opportunities and experiences that create inspiration and joy.
Take it away, Beth Anne...
Friday
Cheers
Friday Cheers is a concert series that attracts a diverse line up of national acts while also weaving in local talent. Nestled between the James River and the Downtown Richmond skyline, Brown's Island is a destination all year long. As soon as festival season kicks off in May, the Island becomes a hotspot for live music. If it is a Friday and you’re looking to unwind after a long week, head down to the Island and let loose. This Friday, Richmond native Kenneka Cook kicks things off with Sampa the Great closing the evening.
On Sunday, June 4 from 10 am - 3 pm, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden will host a celebration of LGBTQ+ youth! This event is a highlight of the Pride offerings with a Makers Market organized by TransJam Events, performances by local drag queens, a lip synch competition and a dance party. Organizations including He, She, Ze, and We and Side By Side will be onsite sharing information and resources with community.
Richmond has become popular for both its food and festivals of various sorts. The two worlds collide with one of the oldest cultural festivals in the city. Whether it’s dolmades or souvlaki, some of the best Greek food around will be in Richmond’s West End this weekend. Art, music, and performance will give you an authentic Greek experience you don’t have to travel far for.
More About Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden & Pride Month
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden will be celebrating Pride all month long! In partnership with Virginia Pride, the Garden will be hosting several events that reflect the Garden’s commitment to being inclusive and welcoming for all! Admission to the Garden is required for special events, and gives you access to all that Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden has to offer!
Go
