Doug Burford has always been a dreamer. The local ad man’s latest flight of fancy is a plan to promote Richmond as the nation’s most historic city. He knows it’s an audacious claim that is sure to be challenged by other burgs, from Boston to Philly. But that’s OK; the point is to start a dialogue that “will create millions of dollars’ worth of free publicity.“

Sitting in his large Main Street office, family pictures adorning the walls, Doug Burford looks like a content businessman ready to close up shop and head out to the nearest golf course. But nothing could be further from the truth. “I don’t see myself slowing down,“ the 66-year-old Richmond ad man said. “I still get enthusiastic about new campaigns, and I love coming to work every day.“