Business Highlights

Julie Carroll of The Friendly Fork Brings Flexibility and Flavor to Downtown Covington Through Catering and Private Events

This feature is presented in a Q&A format to allow readers to hear directly from the business owner about her journey, growth, and plans.

When Julie opened her doors on Main Street, it was the result of both determination and opportunity. After earning second place in the 2024 Gauntlet competition, supported through a Community Business Launch (CBL) Grant from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), Julie Carroll brought her vision to life in the heart of downtown Covington, VA. While the storefront is no longer open for daily lunch service, the business continues to thrive through catering, private events, and small gatherings. Carroll’s flexibility, commitment to quality, and strong community relationships have allowed The Friendly Fork to remain an active and valued part of our historic downtown Covington business landscape.

Can you share a little about how your business began and how it has evolved over the years?
My business began quite organically. I catered a baby shower for a friend, and a guest from that event asked if I would provide food for a retirement party. From there, word spread quickly, and demand continued to grow. At the time, I was working at the paper mill and had a three-year plan to transition into catering full-time. However, within just eight weeks, my calendar filled, allowing me to confidently leave my job and pursue what I love. Since then, the business has continued to grow through catering, private events, and small gatherings.

Many people remember when you were open for lunch – what led you to shift away from that model?
Lunch service brought inconsistent customer traffic. While some days were strong, others had very limited attendance, which made it difficult to justify staffing, food preparation, and operational costs. At the same time, demand for catering services was increasing significantly, and we often had to decline larger catering opportunities because we were committed to being open for lunch. Focusing on catering and private events allowed us to operate more efficiently, reduce waste, and concentrate on the services that were most sustainable and profitable.

Can you tell us what types of events/products you most often provide?
Our services range from small weekly catered lunches for groups of 10–15 people to large formal plated weddings serving up to 200 guests, as well as everything in between. We tailor each event to meet the specific needs of the customer.

How far in advance should customers typically book?
For smaller events of fewer than 25 guests, we recommend at least one week’s notice. Larger events, particularly weddings, should be booked as early as possible, as weekends tend to fill quickly and availability becomes limited months in advance. Currently, I have very few weekends available between now and the end of December.

You also host small evening gatherings when your schedule allows. What kinds of events are a good fit for your space?
Our space is ideal for smaller gatherings of 30 people or fewer, including showers, business meetings, celebrations, club meetings, and similar events. These smaller functions create a welcoming environment and allow us to provide a more personal experience for our guests.

What do you love most about welcoming people into your space?
I especially enjoy being part of meaningful moments in people’s lives. Guests often comment on how welcoming the space feels, and many are surprised to discover businesses they were not previously aware of downtown. It is rewarding to help connect visitors with the broader downtown community while hosting their special occasions.
How has the community supported your business through its different phases?
The community has been amazing with incredible support from the very beginning and continues to encourage the business as it evolves. That ongoing support has played a major role in our growth and success.

What advice would you give to other small business owners who may be considering a change or pivot?
Be willing to evaluate what is working best for your business and focus on the most sustainable services. Sometimes adjusting your model allows you to better meet customer demand while improving efficiency and long-term success.
Based on your experience, what’s one thing the City could do—big or small—that would genuinely make running a downtown business a little easier or more successful?
I do not have any complaints. Downtown events that increase foot traffic are always helpful and appreciated. While street closures can sometimes present accessibility challenges for certain visitors, continued efforts to bring people downtown are valuable for local businesses overall.

What does the future look like for your business?
I see the business continuing to operate successfully in our current location for many years. While expanding into a larger space is always a possibility, I value the efficiency and manageable overhead of our current setup. Bigger is not always better, and our present model allows us to operate effectively while serving our clients well.
Where can readers go to learn more, inquire, or book your services? Customers can learn more or book services through the following: Facebook page Website at www.thefriendlyfork.com or by calling, 540.691.5099. People can watch our Facebook page because sometimes we will post announcements about public dinners and special events.

I can’t thank Julie enough for her time and insights. Her perspective matters, and conversations like this help the city better understand how to support downtown businesses. This feedback will guide future efforts, and know my door is always open to anyone.

(L to R) Barbara Doyle, Julie Carroll, Cambria Ransom, and Kimora Moye

From Recovery to Purpose:  Building Hope Through Recover Virginia

What began as a personal journey of overcoming addiction has grown into a mission dedicated to helping others find hope, healing, and a path forward. Through Recover Virginia, Chad Stancil has transformed his life experiences into a source of encouragement and support for individuals and families impacted by addiction. His story is a powerful reminder that our past does not define our future. Today, as a successful nonprofit Executive Director and advocate for recovery, he is making a meaningful difference in communities across the Alleghany Highlands and surrounding areas by helping others discover that recovery is possible, purpose can be restored, and new beginnings are always within reach.

What inspired you to start Recover Virginia?

Honestly, a lot of things inspired me. I wanted to do more for the community. Looking at what I’ve been able to accomplish and what I still want to achieve has helped me believe in myself and take things a step further. Thinking about doing something and actually doing it are two different things, and I reached a point where I knew I needed to take action; people were dying.

What does the name “Recover Virginia” mean to you?

I didn’t actually come up with the name Recover Virginia. It began as an idea connected to an event I learned about while attending a recovery meeting in Lexington. I heard about something called Recover Fest that was going to be held at Hull’s Drive-In. At that time, Recover Virginia wasn’t a nonprofit yet; it was more of a concept focused on addiction recovery and raising support for organizations like ours that are on the front lines of this work.

I attended the event the following Saturday, and I was asked if it became a nonprofit, If I would join the board. I had never been asked to serve in that kind of role before, so I said yes. The plan was to host three Recover Fest events the following year, one in Covington, one in Staunton, and one in Nelson County. I was the only representative from Covington, so we met virtually in January of 2022 for our first official board meeting after being incorporated in December of 2021. I already had a venue at the Jackson River Sports Complex, a band, and insurance lined up, while others were still in the early stages. Because of that, it was decided that we would focus on hosting the Covington event.

During that early period, from September 2021 to January 2022, the name Recover Virginia emerged out of Recover Fest. As things developed, I became more involved, meeting people and building connections. Following Recover Fest in Covington, Recover Virginia experienced a significant leadership transition.

I traveled to Richmond to speak with someone who had started a peer-led organization nearly 28 years earlier. From those conversations, I learned the importance of having a nonprofit physical space and a stable bank account as foundational steps.

I reconnected with the person who was still serving as president and shared my ideas. Through that, Allen Dressler with the City of Covington allowed us to use the Edgemont School space.

To me, Recover Virginia is a powerful name. On one hand, it can be misunderstood as being tied to the state, which can create confusion. But on the other hand, it represents unity; it’s not limited to just Alleghany County, and anyone is welcome as long as they are respectful and sober. It speaks to a broader mission that includes people across the region and beyond.

I didn’t choose the name, and I’m not looking to change it. But I do respect what it represents and what it has come to mean through this journey.

What services does Recover Virginia provide?

Recover Virginia primarily provides peer support. That means offering a listening ear from people who have lived experience with addiction and recovery, including living life on life’s terms.  At its core, peer support is about connection; someone who has benefited from it is often the same person who later gives it back. If someone hasn’t experienced it, they may not fully understand its value, but those who have usually recognize how powerful it can be.

We also provide support through groups, meetings to develop life skills and workforce development. We’re still growing in that area, but we help with things like job searches, resumes, and connecting people to employment opportunities. A big part of what we do is simply meeting people where they are and giving them a safe place to come to feel better after leaving.

For me, this started from my own experience with addiction, alcohol, and drugs, and what I quickly realized is how important it is to have an honest, human connection and a safe, sober space where people can breathe. A place where they can begin to rebuild relationships and work through what they’re going through.

Ultimately, our goal is to be a place people think of before they make a harmful decision, whether that’s using substances, hurting themselves or someone else, quitting their job, having a major conflict at home, or making an impulsive choice during a difficult moment. We want people to feel like they can come in, sit down, talk, or decompress with someone who understands.

Everything shared with us is confidential, except where required by law or when there is an immediate risk of harm to yourself or others.

Can you share a success story that has impacted you personally?

One success story that has really impacted me happened very recently. Last year, a couple would stop by Recover Virginia from time to time while they were in a difficult relationship. Eventually, the relationship ended, and one of them went to treatment for a few months.

When they completed treatment, they didn't have stable housing and were living in a tent. One of the first places they came was Recover Virginia. They spent hours with us almost every day, simply having a safe place to be and people to connect with.

During that time, they met someone and ended up staying with them for a couple of weeks. Looking back, that probably wasn't the best decision, but it gave them a temporary place to land while they continued coming to Recover Virginia. While they were with us, they found a job, secured housing, and are now about a month into steady employment.

What made this story even more meaningful was that yesterday their former partner came into Recover Virginia and said, 'I was told I really needed to come here.'

To me, that's a huge success. We didn't solve every problem for this person, but we were there when they needed somewhere safe to land. We provided support, connection, and stability during a very difficult time. Sometimes that's all someone needs to begin moving forward. Seeing them go from treatment and homelessness to having a job, housing, and now watching their story encourage someone else, that's exactly why Recover Virginia exists.

What keeps you motivated each day?

What keeps me motivated each day is my past and my faith in God. Those two things are my foundation. We have a Bible study each week, and my faith reminds me why I do this work.

What also keeps me going is seeing people change. I don't always see a breakthrough every single day, but I see progress. Sometimes it's a change in someone's attitude, their behavior, or the hope they begin to have. It might happen while they're here, later that afternoon, or weeks down the road.

Hearing those success stories and witnessing lives begin to change reminds me why Recover Virginia exists. Every breakthrough gives me hope because I know there's another person who will walk through our doors tomorrow, and another after that. Knowing we have the opportunity to be there for each of them is what motivates me to keep showing up every day.

What is the most rewarding part of your work?

For me personally, the most rewarding part of this work begins with my own recovery. Recovery has to be personal first. I have to be able to look back at where I used to be and recognize how far I've come. Some people might call that selfish, but I believe it's necessary. If I'm not continuing to grow and stay healthy myself, I can't effectively help anyone else.

Seeing that growth in my own life keeps me motivated. It reminds me that change is possible and encourages me to keep learning, even when it's difficult or frustrating.

I've learned that success isn't about the exciting moments; it's about showing up consistently. It's about doing the hard, often boring work that no one sees: staying focused, being disciplined, learning from mistakes, and continuing to move forward one step at a time. That's what creates lasting change, both in recovery and in life. Without that commitment to the everyday work, you really don't have anything to build on.

What partnerships or collaborations have been important to your success?

The most important partnership to Recover Virginia's success is the trust we have built with the individuals and families we serve. People choose to come through our doors because they know they will be welcomed without judgment and supported through real-life challenges. That trust is the foundation of everything we do.

Partnerships have also been essential to our growth. Looking back, I honestly don't know if Recover Virginia would be where it is today without the support of the City of Covington, especially Allen Dressler. He gave us an opportunity early on by allowing us to use space at the Edgemont School. When we later had to leave that location, the City once again stepped in and allowed us to use the Covington Depot for a period of time. Having a place where we could meet with people during those early days made all the difference.

Another person who had a tremendous impact on our journey was Gerald Franson. I remember him asking if we had a budget, and I had to honestly tell him that we really didn't. We were only about seven months into operating under our new mission. We had two employees we were trying to pay, a couple of grant applications pending, and I had only written two grants in my life. I had no idea how things were going to turn out.

He then asked me why I was doing this and whether I truly believed God was leading me in this direction. I told him I did. His response was, "I have a place for you." That conversation became a turning point for Recover Virginia. Not long afterward, one of our grant applications was awarded, giving us the stability we needed to continue moving forward.

The Alleghany Foundation has also been an incredible partner, awarding us two grants that have helped expand our services and strengthen our ability to serve the community.

When I reflect on Recover Virginia's journey, I realize we wouldn't be where we are today without the people and organizations that believed in our mission before we had much to show for it. They invested in our vision, gave us opportunities when we needed them most, and helped lay the foundation for an organization that is now making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families, and our community.

What are your goals for Recover Virginia over the next few years?

One of our biggest goals over the next few years is to find a larger facility. We actually outgrew our current space not long after we moved in. Several times each week, we find ourselves saying, 'We just need more room.' We need additional meeting space, private areas where people can have confidential conversations, and outdoor space where we can offer more activities.

I'd also love to create a workshop space with a concrete floor and garage doors, a place where people can learn practical, hands-on skills. Recovery is about much more than overcoming addiction; it's about building confidence, independence, and purpose. Something as simple as learning to read a tape measure, use a drill, operate a saw safely, or complete basic home repairs can give someone skills they can use for the rest of their life.

Beyond helping people maintain their own homes, those skills can spark creativity and even create opportunities to earn income by building and selling handcrafted items. My vision is to help people become more self-sufficient while also creating opportunities that make Recover Virginia more sustainable as an organization. Ultimately, it's always about investing in the person first and giving them the tools they need to build a better future.

Is there anything else you would like the community to know about your mission?

I want the community to know that we are a local organization, not a statewide program. We are right here in the community, and we’re open to anyone sober and respectful.

Our mission goes beyond addiction alone; it’s about support, connection, and helping people rebuild their lives in a healthy environment.

I also want to clarify that being local is actually a strength, not a limitation. Sometimes people hear the name and assume we’re a large statewide organization, which can make them hesitant to come in. But we’re here for our community, and our focus is on serving the people right here at home.

Your story is one of redemption, resilience, and purpose.  What message would you like to leave with anyone who may be facing one of the darkest seasons of their life right now?

My message to anyone going through one of the darkest seasons of their life is this: you have to be honest with yourself, and you have to be willing to ask for help. It's not too late.

One question I often come back to is whether the fear and pain of staying the same is greater than the fear of change. A lot of times, people stay stuck because they’re more afraid of the unknown, what others might think, or what might happen if they try something different. But the reality is, the pain of staying where you are usually becomes heavier than the fear of moving forward and that’s when change happens.

At some point, you have to be willing to be honest about how you really feel. That honesty is what opens the door to freedom, support, and change. It’s not always easy to get to that point, but it’s necessary.

So many people have reached that moment in their lives where they finally choose to open that door, and when they do, it can be life-changing. For me, that’s also where faith comes in. It’s a place of surrender, recognizing that I can’t do it alone and I don’t have to.

The hardest part is admitting that I can’t fix everything myself. But once I accept that, I can start asking the right questions: Am I really moving forward, or am I going backward? That honesty is where real change begins.

Where can readers learn more or book a visit?

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/recoverva
Website: https://recoverva.org
Phone: 540-597.3488
Email:  cstancil@recoverva.org

Closing Statement
As our conversation comes to a close, one thing is abundantly clear: recovery is not just about overcoming the past; it is about building a future filled with purpose, hope, and opportunity. Through Recover Virginia, Chad is doing more than operating a business; he is changing lives by showing others that no matter where their journey begins, transformation is possible. His story is a testament to perseverance, faith, and the power of second chances. We are grateful for his willingness to share his experiences and for the impact he continues to make in our communities. His journey reminds us all that some of the most inspiring success stories are born from life's greatest challenges.

Richard Mansell of Mountain Rush Brings Family Entertainment to Downtown Covington

When Richard Mansell opened Mountain Rush in downtown Covington, it marked the fulfillment of a vision more than a decade in the making. Built on faith, perseverance, and a desire to serve families, Mountain Rush has quickly become a destination for fun, connection, and community. While some long-term plans, like a roller-skating rink, are still ahead, the dream continues to grow in exciting ways. Can you share how your business idea came about and what inspired you to bring it to downtown Covington?
When our family moved to Covington fourteen years ago, we quickly realized there were limited indoor entertainment options for families and youth. The area offered wonderful outdoor amenities, parks, trails, bowling, and a movie theater, but for activities like skating, laser tag, or go-karts, we had to travel outside the region.

As a father and assistant pastor at Calvary Baptist Church, I often took my daughters and youth group out of town for those experiences. Within our first year here, I began envisioning a place where families and young people could gather locally, a place I initially called “The Other Side.”

At the time, I didn’t have funding or business experience, and life responsibilities delayed the dream. However, going through the Gauntlet business program in 2019 for my electronics company was a turning point. It provided structure, financial insight, and exposure to the realities of brick-and-mortar operations. I gained a deeper understanding of what it truly takes to open a physical location.

As conversations in the community continued, especially around the need for a skating rink, I began actively searching for space. While the former Kroger building initially seemed promising, it ultimately wasn’t feasible. Through prior connections, I began discussions with Gray Lane and David Bostic regarding their project at 410 W. Main Street. Our visions aligned: they wanted to create something meaningful for the community, and I had a clear entertainment concept ready to execute.

That partnership made it possible. Mountain Rush opened at 410 W. Main in August 2025, right in the heart of downtown.

How has your vision evolved since opening?
The core vision remains intact, but experience has helped refine it. We’ve learned what works best within our current footprint and what resonates most with families.
Laser tag combined with birthday parties has been a tremendous success, and we’re currently upgrading the arena. Our golf simulator has attracted a wide demographic, from serious golfers wanting access to PGA courses to young guests enjoying the interactive games. We’re even considering adding a second simulator. Arcade gaming has exceeded expectations. What started modestly has grown to 31 machines, serving everyone from young children to grandparents. Some features—like go-karts and rock climbing- will come later as part of future expansion plans. The long-term vision now includes the possibility of a second facility to accommodate larger attractions.
Listening to the community, especially those who actively attend, has been key to our growth.

What activities and experiences do you currently offer?
Mountain Rush offers:

• Laser tag for up to 10 players at a time (with party rotations accommodating much larger groups)
• A five-player immersive virtual reality arena, plus VR escape room experiences
• A golf simulator featuring 40 PGA courses worldwide
• 31 arcade machines
• A lounge area with billiards, cornhole, foosball, and retro games
• A toddler inflatable play area
• A private movie theater available for films or gaming
• Full-service birthday party packages

Birthday celebrations are especially popular, and booking is highly recommended. Do you host both small groups and larger events?
Absolutely. Walk-ins are welcome during open play hours (Thursday–Saturday afternoons and Sunday afternoons). We also accommodate reserved group events of all sizes. For golf simulator or theater reservations, booking at least one week in advance is recommended. Birthday parties often book a month or more ahead, especially for Saturdays. Reservations can be made online or via Facebook Messenger.

Are there special elements that make Mountain Rush unique?
Our goal has always been to offer experiences not currently available within the immediate region. The multiplayer virtual reality arena is especially unique, allowing five people to play together in the same immersive environment. Our birthday party setup is also distinctive. Families receive access to over 7,000 square feet of space, combining multiple activities in one celebration. We also provide thoughtful extras like spare diapers in restrooms, emergency party supplies, and full cleanup service, at no additional cost. We strive to go above and beyond in hospitality.

What do you love most about welcoming families into your space?
Our mission is to glorify God by providing quality, wholesome family entertainment that benefits individuals, families, and the community. Seeing a child’s eyes light up when they walk through the doors is incredibly rewarding. Watching families interact, laugh, and enjoy time together confirms that we are meeting a real need in this area. That sense of purpose is what I love most.

How has the Covington community supported your growth?
The support has been tremendous. Local businesses have promoted us, families have shared their experiences by word of mouth, and five-star reviews have helped spread awareness. We’ve partnered on events like New Year’s Eve celebrations with Olde Town Covington, and the City’s Parks and Recreation Department has been supportive in collaborative efforts. Teen Tuesdays in 2026 will further expand our outreach.
When I see someone online ask, “Where can I take my kids?” and others respond by tagging Mountain Rush, that’s powerful support. The roller-skating rink has been a long-term dream.

What’s your vision for it?
The skating rink is the largest phase of the project—approximately a $300,000 investment. While financing remains a hurdle, progress is being made. Local contractors are ready when funding is secured. The best way the community can help bring this vision to life is by continuing to support Mountain Rush today. A strong revenue history strengthens our position with lenders.

How can the community best support you right now?
Visit. Experience it. Tell others about it.
“I’ll check that place out someday” can unintentionally be the downfall of many small businesses. Supporting local now makes future growth possible.

Where can readers learn more or book a visit?
Facebook: Mountain Rush • Website: https://mountainrushva.com • Phone: 540-987-4035

A proposed family entertainment venue aims to include a skating rink, an amenity that would enhance local recreation, support youth engagement, and strengthen community gathering spaces. The owner recently shared a compelling vision: If 1,000 individuals contributed $300 each, the skating rink could become a reality.

Community members interested in donations, partnerships, or investment opportunities are invited to connect for additional details.

Closing Statement:
Thank you for sharing your time and insights. Your perspective is valuable, and conversations like this help the City better understand how to support downtown businesses and community amenities. We hope this feedback helps inform future efforts, and please know my door is always open for continued discussion and collaboration.