A new ride sharing service recently launched in Greater Williamsburg. Wesley Stevenson and his wife, Mari Ann, started Rydeshare Ranger last fall in response to what they felt was a growing frustration with other similar services.

“While their technology is undeniably efficient, we felt their treatment of drivers — the true backbone of the industry — had become increasingly impersonal,” Stevenson said. “We believed there was a better way to do business, one that prioritizes people over algorithms.”

Rydeshare Ranger primarily caters to those who live in the Williamsburg area, as well as those in New Kent County and West Point, with most of the clientele relying on their service for transportation to airports in Richmond and Norfolk.

Stevenson, who has been a music educator and business owner for the past 20 years, said his background has been helpful with his new gig.

“I’ve found that my background in music and education translates seamlessly into personal transportation,” Stevenson said. “As a musician, you must be a master of improvisation. In this business, that means having the mental agility to navigate a closed route or the social intuition to pivot away from a tense conversation.

“Our ‘rangers’ don’t just drive. They provide a curated experience. We aim to make every guest feel welcomed, safe and genuinely appreciated, standards that often get lost in the shuffle of larger corporate services.”

Stevenson’s goal is for Rydeshare Ranger to become the premier transportation service in the Historic Triangle. All drivers are trained in basic first aid and CPR.

“We view ourselves as more than just a ride from point A to point B; we are stewards of our guests’ safety and time,” he said. “The feedback has been incredibly rewarding. We’ve already forged deep roots within the local community and are eager to see that momentum carry us toward exponential growth in 2026.”

For more information, visit facebook.com/rydeshareranger.

The Edge District plans Mardi Gras celebration

Businesses within The Edge District are collaborating on a multiday Mardis Gras celebration, slated March 5-8.

Festivities will include a Mardis Gras trivia night at The Virginia Beer Company on March 5, a special menu featuring beignet burgers at Burgers on the Edge on March 6 and a Carnival Party, a ticketed event at Copper Fox Distillery. The Copper Fox event, scheduled for March 7 from 3 to 8 p.m., will include unlimited gumbo, jambalaya, cornbread and charcuterie spreads; a welcome cocktail and a slice of king cake; and complimentary beads, feathers boas and masks.

Column 15 coffeehouse will also host a ticketed event on March 8 — a Mardis Gras-themed drag bingo brunch from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. featuring prizes, mimosas and a buffet, as well as live music and a costume contest.

“Visitors can expect a welcoming atmosphere that captures the fun and flair of Mardi Gras while supporting local businesses,” said James Kroll, Column 15’s managing director. “We’re especially looking forward to seeing the community come together across the district throughout the events. It’s a great opportunity for people to explore, celebrate and experience everything the Edge has to offer.”

Rochambeau Roadside Inn is also offering getaway packages as part of the celebration that includes tickets to the Carnival Party. For more details on The Edge District Mardi Gras events, visit facebook.com/edgedistrictva.

Dots and Dashes

37North-Asian Market, a retail store specializing in Asian food products, recently relocated to 4391 Ironbound Road in the space formerly occupied by Gyros Palace.
Hibachi Buddha has permanently closed its Williamsburg location at 5242 Olde Towne Road. The owner of the restaurant, which recently announced an expansion to Richmond, has decided to close both brick-and-mortar establishments and plans to reopen as a food truck operation.
Cushman & Wakefield/Thalhimer recently announced the sale of a former Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant located at 1905 Pocahontas Trail. JADC Commercial Development purchased the 4,189 square foot building for $1.8 million and plans to redevelop it. A national chain restaurant is slated to open at the location, though the name of the business has not been disclosed.

Brandy Centolanza, bcentolanza@cox.net