WHY WE GIVE
annual organizational report July 2013 – June 2014
TN Main Street Managers Statewide Meeting
WHY I GIVE
Journey’s End 2013
Mission Statement Believe in Bristol’s mission is to foster the collaborative vibrant nature of both Bristols by building a community of culture, lifestyle, heritage, music, and economy. Believe in Bristol strives to strengthen the heart and soul of our Historic Downtown and facilitate its future growth by implementing the Main Street Four Point Approach focusing on Organization, Design, Promotion and Economic Restructuring.
Vision Statement Bristol is one community whose heart is a vibrant downtown, where our unique cultural and historical heritage is celebrated; where a sustainable vigorous economy is enjoyed; and where the quality of life is enhanced by abundant opportunities for living, working, shopping and playing.
Peyton Boyd
“
"When we got Believe in Bristol up and running several years ago, we had almost no name recognition in the community. In newspaper and television coverage of our activities, the organization's name was always followed by an obligatory description of who we are and what we do. It is gratifying now to see how Believe in Bristol's reputation—and name recognition— have grown, thanks to the efforts of our excellent staff and many dedicated, hardworking volunteers."
”
Downtown Bristol “A Good Place to Live” Going back more than 150 years, Bristol has a proud heritage of being both a fun place to visit and “A Good Place to Live.” With so much to do and enjoy, everyone feels at home in Downtown Bristol. As a Certified Main Street Community, Downtown Bristol has more to offer every day – more activities, more shops, more homes, more offices and more life.
Peyton Boyd Architect PC
Volunteers help at State of the Arts Weekend
A Few Words from Believe in Bristol’s President, Marjorie Tester Welcome to Believe in Bristol! As the ebb and flow of our local economy changes, Believe in Bristol strives to maintain the authentic look and feel of our traditional downtown district while still expanding our diverse array of shops, services, and restaurants, and so much more. Your continued support of our 501(c) 3 organization through financial contributions, volunteer time, and in-kind donations are critical for our long-term success. It is important for you to know that your donations are used to support our general operating budget, along with all the wonderful events, accomplishments and work-plans you will about read in this annual report. As president, I can say firsthand that it is truly amazing what our small organization accomplishes from year to year. The leadership and dedication of our board and committee members is unbeatable, the BIB office is efficiently run by our staff, and we are always looking for new grant opportunities and promotions to make our downtown stand out! Our organization is making sure that your contribution is used in the very best ways to maximize impact at the lowest cost. In the past year, Believe in Bristol has been focused on engaging our area youth. It is important for future generations to love this community, and it is our role to show them that our downtown is a vibrant cultural hub. The Who Art You? summer camps are a great opportunity for children to experience the many arts Downtown Bristol has to offer in one exciting week: painting, photography, creative movement, creative writing, martial arts, pottery, yoga, storytelling, and, of course, music. We have started a partnership with Bristol Youth Council, hosting monthly meetings to expose local high school students to a variety of downtown activities and volunteer opportunities. Making them aware of what Bristol has to offer encourages our youth to stay here or come back to make their hometown an even better place to be. Believe in Bristol is also involved with our area colleges, including King University and Northeast State Community College, partnering with them on several student events and internship opportunities. Believe in Bristol is also discussing the expansion of our Historic Downtown District boundaries as we examine our footprint and outreach in both states. Our merchandise sales are picking up and visitors are always looking for that unique something to take home with them. Speaking of footprint, has anyone spotted the “Bigfoot” t-shirts around town? Or how about the UFOs that are flying out of the BIB office? Downtown has become a fun place for the entire family place to eat, work, shop and play. There are so many activities and promotions sponsored by Believe by Believe in Bristol throughout the year, and we encourage you to visit believeinbristol.org to see all that is happening in our downtown community! As president of Believe in Bristol, I wish to take this opportunity to thank you for your time, your financial contributions, and the wisdom you have provided to help make our organization successful. We ask that you please consider supporting Believe in Bristol again in 2014 – 2015. We know we are making great strides. Bristol is a great place to live, work, shop and play because we are all working together to make it that way — let’s keep up the great work!
WHY I GIVE
Marjorie Tester
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We know we are making great strides. Bristol is a great place to live, work, shop and play because we are all working together to make it that way — let’s keep up the great work!
”
President, Believe in Bristol Board of Directors
Sincerely, Marjorie Tester Board President
For more information on upcoming events, visit our website at believeinbristol.org and sign up for our weekly newsletter by subscribing using your email address.
WHY I GIVE
“
“I’m really proud to be a part of all the positive energy surrounding Bristol’s Historic Downtown. The twin cities seem to be something of a magnet for people with all sorts of creative talent and enthusiasm. I consider myself extremely lucky to have kept this kind of company among the other members of Believe in Bristol’s Board and Design Committee.”
Chair of Design Committee
”
Michael Haslam Members: Michael Haslam (Chair), Seth Bartee, Peyton Boyd, Chris Chandler, Sarah Hull, Linda Kirk, Quinn Craughwell, Christa McClellan, Josh Shaffer
Design Committee Design means getting Main Street into top physical shape. Capitalizing on its best assets — such as historic buildings and pedestrian-oriented streets — is just part of the story. An inviting atmosphere, created through attractive window displays, parking areas, building improvements, street furniture, signs, sidewalks, street lights, and landscaping, conveys a positive visual message about the commercial district and what it has to offer. Design activities also include instilling good maintenance practices in the commercial district, enhancing the physical appearance of the commercial district by rehabilitating historic buildings, encouraging appropriate new construction, developing sensitive design management systems, and long-term planning.
Serendipity Winter 2013
Goal: To enhance the physical appearance of the commercial district by rehabilitating historic buildings, encouraging supportive new construction, and developing sensitive design management and long-term planning to assist in creating a viable sustainable community. Achievements: Committee pulled together resources and information to create a pamphlet to get information and awareness out to the downtown merchants and property owners on ways that the Design Committee can help them with their building appearance projects. Committee hosted an open Design Assistance event to introduce themselves. The Committee educated groups on what makes a Livable Community with particular emphasis on Downtown Bristol. The City of Bristol, VA initiated a Historic District Preservation Award Committee with a small select panel to choose “good preservation” winners within the five historic districts of Bristol, VA. Design Committee Chair Michael Haslam served on this committee. Partnered with the City of Bristol, VA on a Wayfinding Signage grant opportunity; unfortunately we were not awarded the grant but we learned a lot by doing it! Committee is currently also discussing wayfinding options with Bristol, TN planning department regarding potential side-street signage. Committee keeps up to date on legislature such as the Historic Tax Rehabilitation Credit bill for TN. The Bill did not pass in 2014; however, it is still in discussion and we are hopeful for its future.
Members: Ben Collins (Chair), Jack Young, Marjorie Tester, Karen Witcher, Brian Ritz, Kristi Haulsee, Andrew Trivette, Katy Stigers, Rob Hollo, David Elkins, Ryan Chupa, Ryan Fabbri, Sally Morgan, Seth Bartee, and J.W. Kiser Goal: To strengthen the district’s existing economic base while finding ways to expand it to meet new opportunities and challenges from outlying development. To retain and expand existing businesses to provide a balanced commercial mix, convert unused or underutilized space into productive property, and share the competitiveness and merchandising skills of downtown business people. Achievements: This past year the committee held the first Downtown Bristol Entrepreneur’s Prize Competition, where current and potential businesses compete for a $5,000 prize! The first competition went so well that we have already started working on the 2nd Annual Downtown Bristol Entrepreneur’s Prize Competition. Look for that announcement in January 2015! This prize is one of our many efforts to be proactive in business recruitment. We organize and host quarterly merchant meetings to inform the downtown businesses about relevant issues, events that impact them, and educational speakers. We regularly reach out to entrepreneurs in an effort to recruit new businesses and investment downtown. We also welcome new businesses to our community and inform them of all the resources we can provide. The committee has ongoing discussions on the large retail projects, The Pinnacle and The Falls, and how they will affect our downtown business community. We are thinking of outside solutions to partner together for the betterment of Bristol. We have also started a “Consumer Flow e-mail” program where recipients receive an email as needed summarizing news coverage, upcoming public meetings and relevant legislation that the community needs to be aware of or engage in. Email us at info@believeinbristol.org if you wish to join in on the discussion. We also have ongoing discussions regarding new opportunities for Bristol as a “destination city” supported by a constant flow of tourism, and how we can help our downtown businesses improve and be successful in this new atmosphere.
Economic Restructuring Committee Economic Restructuring strengthens a community's existing economic assets while expanding and diversifying its economic base. The Main Street program helps sharpen the competitiveness of existing business owners and recruits compatible new businesses and new economic uses to build a commercial district that responds to today's consumers' needs. Converting unused or underused commercial space into economically productive property also helps boost the profitability of the district.
Members: Mimi Kind (Chair), Briana Morris, Barbara Smith, Jean Burnette, Ben Walls, Bethany Wilson, Melanie Buhls, Rene Rodgers, Susan Long, Jennifer Wilson, Joseph Strickland, Candy Snodgrass, Michelle Plescia, Jay Phyfer Goal: To use the arts to make a positive difference in our downtown’s future, boost Bristol’s creative economy and cultural tourism, and cultivate Bristol’s creativity.
Arts & Entertainment Committee The Arts & Entertainment District was initiated in Historic Downtown Bristol in 2010. It is focused on using the arts to make a positive difference in our downtown's future. The A&E Committee, made up of hardworking volunteers who care about the arts, works to promote and advocate for the District in order to boost Bristol's creative economy and cultural tourism. They also collaborate to develop, encourage, and enhance ideas that cultivate creativity in the community.
Achievements: Continued development of Art D’Vine, an art hop and wine tasting around the downtown galleries. This was held four times during 2014 on a seasonal basis, and the galleries featured special guest authors, artists and artisans, unveiled new works, and offered various promotions on the night.
Ran another series of successful Border Bash concerts. Border Bash is a free summer concert series held annually on State Street in Historic Downtown Bristol, TN/VA.
Held the fourth annual State of the Arts Weekend in June 2014. Activities throughout the weekend included Art D’Vine, a free Kids’ Arts Day, an Artist Power Hour competition, a local talent showcase music concert, a free movie in Cumberland Park in partnership with BVU, and much more.
Hosted two sessions of our Who Art You? Camp in June and July, which exposed youth campers to a huge variety of art, including pottery, visual arts, music, theatre, storytelling and writing, martial arts, healing arts (yoga), creative movement/ dance, and robotics.
Organized the 3rd Annual Student Art Gallery from October 2013 through June 2014. We invited all local schools from Bristol, Tennessee-Virginia, along with the local home school network, to submit their students’ work for display in an available storefront.
Organized and ran the Up Against the Wall Rockin’ Stroll Window Contest for Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion in 2014. The first annual Merry Merchants window decorating contest was also organized for the 2014 Annual Christmas Open House.
Future Plans: Formed a committee to transform State of the Arts Weekend into a three-day celebration of the arts in the form of PUSH! Film Festival. PUSH! is planned to be held during the last weekend of June 2015. The committee has met with the Virginia Film Office and the Tennessee Film Commission in the hopes that PUSH! will be a long-lasting regional film festival.
Members: Rene Rodgers, Carrie Cannaday, Briana Morris, Tahita Haynes, Hannah Holmes, Rusty Sheridan, Cody Hall, Joe Strickland, Lee Jones, Carey Kidd, Torre Redford Goal: To create and curate a three-day film festival. The PUSH! Film Festival will take place during State of the Arts on the last weekend of June 2015 and is expected to become an annual event. Progress:
As of October 2014, PUSH! entered a major fundraising campaign in order to fully program three days of content and equip venues as necessary.
The PUSH! Film Festival committee has been hard at work to establish the festival as a regional film festival by networking with both the Virginia and Tennessee Film offices.
PUSH! aims to not only showcase feature films curated by the festival committee but also to host a filmmaking competition in which a slew of short films will be judged by an independent panel of judges.
Several venues are being approached as being possible partners over the weekend with The Paramount Center for the Arts being the centerpiece for feature films. Other venues that have been discussed include the Bristol Public Library, the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, and Cumberland Square Park.
PUSH! Film Festival is on schedule to debut the weekend of June 26, 27, 28 2015.
PUSH! Film Festival Committee PUSH! is a celebration of the cinematic and visual arts in the heart of the twin cities of Bristol, TN/VA. The festival aims to bring diverse films to our community and showcase the best regional filmmakers in order to expand the artistic image of this region, engage new audiences, and inspire creativity.
Sponsorship:
PUSH! is going to be a great way to inspire creative growth, not only here in Bristol but throughout the region. It is an ambitious project, one that will be a great boon to what is already a thriving arts community. However, we can’t do it without YOUR help. Please keep an eye on PushFilm.org or email pushfilm@believeinbristol.org to learn more about our sponsorship levels. Photo by: Ben Collins
“ Mimi Kind
WHY I GIVE
We are extremely fortunate to have an organization like Believe in Bristol working tirelessly for our downtown. Thanks to them and the Arts & Entertainment committee, we have seen an explosion of the arts in downtown Bristol. In the past six years our downtown has gone from no visual arts-related businesses to eight galleries and/or studios. None of us could have managed to pull that off without the support of Believe in Bristol. New restaurants, new entertainment venues, new shops, new galleries...Downtown Bristol is booming, and Believe in Bristol is our biggest supporter and cheerleader. Thank you, Believe in Bristol!
Owner One of A Kind Gallery, Chair of Arts & Entertainment Committee
Members: Vicie Dotson (Chair), Emily Patton, Jean Burnette, Charlene Baker, Debbie Denney, Jennifer Covington, Sarah Hutchinson, Christina Hendricks, Kathryn Cole, Kacey Buchanan, Susan Early Goal: To bring people back to the community’s center by improving the district’s image and marketing its unique assets. Achievements:
One of our big tasks is promoting Bristol to Bristol – we do this through promotional and marketing materials, developing events and promotions in our community to bring people downtown, social media, our website and weekly e-Newsletter, and local partnerships with the media. We partnered on several cooperative ads with the Birthplace of Country Music and Bristol Convention and Visitors Bureau, while also leading cooperative ads for the downtown merchants.
We have also developed some new money-making events and promotions in order to help fund the work of Believe in Bristol – including the Sugar-Coated Pub Crawl, the Bigfoot and UFO t-shirts, and a Masquerade Progressive Loft Dinner.
We believe that partnerships are the key — everyone working together to make our downtown events high-quality and fun for the entire family! We partner with Celebrate Bristol to host a July 4th event in conjunction with Border Bash, and last year, we partnered with Walling Distributing, Birthplace of Country Music, and the City of Bristol, VA for a week-long “Party in the Park with the Clydesdales.” We work with Birthplace of Country Music and the Cities of Bristol to host the Border Bash Summer Concert series moving from block to block on State Street. Many committee members helped with the 2013 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion. We created the Halloween-themed adult Masquerade Progressive Loft Dinner, as well as hosted the 9th Annual From the Top Down Loft Tour. We partnered with the City of Bristol, TN on the Pumpkin Palooza event, followed by downtown trick-or-treating! Finally, we sponsor and promoted Downtown’s Annual Christmas Open House, Journey’s End and participated in and promoted several other community holiday events.
Our committee applied for and was accepted to participate in a LEAD! Bristol Community Service Project through the Bristol Chamber of Commerce called Sunset Shopping Downtown.
We have partnered with the Convention and Visitors Bureau to host the Virginia Tourism Commission on a Bristol Familiarization Tour and partnered with the Birthplace of Country Music for their Bristol announcement of the Orthophonic Joy music contest (there was also an announcement in Nashville, TN)!
Promotions Committee Promotions sells a positive image of the commercial district and encourages consumers and investors to live, work, shop, play and invest in the Main Street district. We market the district's unique characteristics to residents, investors, business owners, visitors, and our effective promotional strategy forges a positive image through advertising, retail promotional activity, special events, and marketing campaigns carried out by local volunteers. These activities improve consumer and investor confidence in the district and encourage commercial activity and investment in the area.
Members: Marjorie Tester (President), Sarah Hutchinson (Vice President), Emily Patton (Secretary), Vicie Dotson (Treasurer), Kathryn Cole (Past President) Goal: To provide effective ongoing management and advocacy for the downtown Main Street program.
Organization/Executive Committee Organization involves getting everyone working toward the same goal and assembling the appropriate human and financial resources to implement a Main Street revitalization program. A governing board and standing committees make up the fundamental organizational structure of the volunteer-driven program. Volunteers are coordinated and supported by a paid program director as well. This structure not only divides the workload and clearly delineates responsibilities, but also builds consensus and cooperation among the various stakeholders.
Achievements: Produced the 2012–13 Believe in Bristol Organizational Report, along with developing the yearly Annual Campaign drive, pursuing new sponsors and completing a professionally developed video highlighting Believe in Bristol and our importance in the community. Organized several annual fundraising events including Bristol’s Downtown Showcase and From the Top Down Loft Tour, both of which bring new people to our downtown and encourage them to support and shop local. Believe in Bristol board and committee recruitment and volunteer development is another major task, along with organization of the annual board retreat where we assess how our year has been and what we can do in the following year to improve and develop our committees and goals. An important part of our work is liaising with downtown merchants, community partners, and sponsors in order to keep them informed of Believe in Bristol’s work and issues related to our downtown. Representing Believe in Bristol at community events, press conferences, and city council meetings. We are proud of our outstanding financial audit report! Partnered with the Solar Hill District Neighborhood Watch program and helped to organize a National Night Out event for the Downtown Neighborhood Watch program. We also hosted the TN Main Street Managers for a quarterly gathering in Bristol. A board support letter was written to the City of Bristol, VA for the creation of a Tourism Overlay District for downtown, which was later approved by City Council. We are very pleased that Believe in Bristol won a 2014 Virginia Main Street Milestone Achievement Award for Volunteer Hours!
Staff: Christina Blevins (Executive Director) and Brad White (Associate Director) Staff specific duties include but are not limited to the following: Administers the goals and objectives established through the Main Street Committees, and serves as liaison to all four of the Main Street Volunteer Committees – Organization, Promotion, Economic Restructuring, and Design — along with sub-committees, Arts & Entertainment District and the newly formed PUSH! Film Festival. Coordinates activities of BIB’s Main Street Program and assists committees in implementing their work plans. Works closely with the downtown merchants, business owners, property owners, city officials, and others to implement BIB’s goals and work plans and the Main Street Four Point Approach in Downtown Bristol. Manages administrative aspects of Main Street Program, including purchasing, recordkeeping, budget preparation, accounting, preparing reports and supervising consultants and volunteers as needed. Develops, in conjunction with BIB’s Board of Directors, economic development strategies that are based on historic preservation and utilize the community’s human and economic resources, along with a coordinated and mutually beneficial plan of action for the continued improvement of the downtown. Works with all persons and groups directly or indirectly involved in the downtown area and assists BIB’s Board of Directors and Committees in developing annual action plans based on the Main Street Four-Point Approach. Encourages membership in the BIB organization and marketing benefits of membership to downtown interests; preparation and publication of a newsletter to keep members up to date of the BIB and downtown activities. Serves as a liaison to downtown and other city/county-wide economic development organizations. Responsible for representing the interests of the Main Street program publicly; developing and conducting ongoing public awareness campaigns and education programs to enhance public appreciation of the downtown’s assets. Assists individual tenants and property owners with business and property improvement projects through personal assistance or through obtaining and supervising professional consultants. Identifies and responds to downtown revitalization needs and concerns. Marketing and event management of downtown festivities and attractions. Works closely with local realtors to develop a marketing plan for businesses and available properties.
Stays informed on current issues in the revitalization of traditional central business districts and conveying pertinent information to the Board of Directors. Assembles information/data and recommends programs, projects and activities to the Board, Committees, task forces, city staff and others to meet the requirements of the Main Street Certification criteria. Encourages a cooperative climate between business owners, property owners, government agencies on both sides of the state line, nonprofit organizations and others participating in the revitalization process. Represents the Main Street organization at the local, state and national levels. Participates in economic development meetings, seminars, and educational opportunities within the community and region to increase public awareness of our program and increase the professional contacts and knowledge associated with the economic and cultural activities of our community and region. Locates resources from all levels to help with revitalization effort, including preparing and making formal and informal presentations to public, private and civic organizations.
Meet Our Staff
Brad White
Christina Blevins
Coming in 2015 Art D’Vine gallery hop and wine tasting January 9 – March 13 – June 19 – September 11, 2015
Birthplace of Country Music — Orthophonic Joy CD release Spring 2015
The Carter Family Project Concert, Birthplace of Country Music Museum January 9, 2015
Les Miserables presented by Theatre Bristol June 2015
An Afternoon with Margaret Scarlett. The accomplished mind behind the standards of HIV/ AIDS and now Ebola from the CDC at The Paramount Center January 25, 2015
The Crooked Road’s Mountains of Music Homecoming June 12 – 20, 2015 PUSH! Film Festival/State of the Arts Weekend June 26 – 28, 2015
Lightwire Theatre at The Paramount Center February 6, 2015
Who Art You? Summer Kids’ Camp June & July 2015
Documenting Appalachia: An Appalshop Film Series, Birthplace of Country Music Museum Runs through February 2015
Celebrate Bristol’s Independence Day Celebration July 4, 2015
The Carter Family: Lives & Legacies special exhibit, Birthplace of Country Music Museum Runs through February 28, 2015 Rumplestiltskin presented by Theatre Bristol March 2015 Artistic Excellence juried youth art show, Birthplace of Country Music Museum March 15, 2015 New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music special exhibit, Birthplace of Country Music Museum Opens March 2015 Red Molly at The Paramount Center March 21, 2015 Believe in Bristol Downtown Showcase March 26, 2015 Full Moon Jam Summer Concert Series May through October 2015 State Street Farmers Market May through October 2015 AACA Antique Car Show Every Friday evening — May through October Border Bash: Summer Concert Series May through August 2015 West Side Story presented by The Asheville Lyric Opera at The Paramount Center – May 2, 2015 Burger Bar & Celebrate Bristol’s Car Show on Piedmont May 16, 2015
Appalachian Antique Car Club of America (Appalachian Region) to host Hot Bristol Night August 2015 Charlotte’s Web presented by Theatre Bristol September 2015 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion September 18 — 20, 2015 Pumpkin Palooza & Trick-or-Treat on State Street October 2015 11th Annual From the Top Down Loft Tour November 2015 Annual Veterans Day Parade November 2015 Downtown Christmas Open House November 23, 2015 Small Business Saturday November 28, 2015 Christmas Tree Lighting December 2015 Christmas Parade December 2015 Journey’s End December 2015 **Check out believeinbristol.org for updated information and events throughout the year.
Thank You to our many backers and investors who supported the work of Believe in Bristol in the past fiscal year. Downtown Supporters
Leadership Circle ($5,000 & above) Bristol Herald Courier City of Bristol, VA City of Bristol, TN Spike & Lisa Tickle Wells Fargo Foundation
The Partnership Club ($2,500-$4,999) Alpha Natural Resources Ben & Cam Collins First Tennessee Foundation The Homer A. and Ida S. Jones Charitable Trust
Downtown Advocate ($1,000-$2,499) Along Came Mary – Mary Jane Miller Bank of Tennessee Blackbird Bakery Dr. & Mrs. Bennett Cowan, Jr. Edward Jones - Robert Hollo, Rob Simis, Brad Baker, and Greg Fahn First Bank of Virginia Kil’n Time Pottery Renasant Bank
Downtown Promoter ($500-$999) Ann & John Tickle Benjamin Walls Gallery – Benjamin Walls Birthplace of Country Music Blakley-Mitchell Dr. & Mrs. John Fincher Commonwealth Coal Corp. Cranberry Lane Denk K. Burk Associates Hill and Dale Garden Club Kerr-Boswell – Joe & Pam Kerr Mary Landrum Merrill-Lynch Serendipity – Sarah Hull
Spiegler Blevins & Company CPAs Starscape Media Stateline Bar & Grille The Williams Company Tom & Barbara Smith
Downtown Friend ($250-$499) Dr. and Mrs. Bob Mueller Charles and Stephanie Earhart Clyde and Susan Long Dr. Michael D. Rowell Frizzell Foundation – Ben and Patsy Frizzell Jim and Mary Geiger John and Karen Vann MedExpress Motel 6 – Neal Gopal Nationwide Insurance – Brian W. Lewis One of a Kind Gallery Robin and Margaret Feierabend Ruth King Studio 6 Apparel The Antique Automobile Club of America – Appalachian Region The Boxwood Antiques Tom and Carolyn Hanlon
Downtown Fans ($249 & Below) Bob and Carol Bannish Brenda Williams Brian and Anne Rife Bristol Dental Group – Dr. Jason Pittman Carl and Elliott Moore Chad and Kathy Keen Dan and Nell Bieger David Warren Don Moneyhun Dr. and Mrs. Fred Slaughter Dr. and Mrs. James Lapis Dr. and Mrs. Nelson Gwaltney Dr. and Mrs. S. Zaidi Dr. Joseph Crum
Eric and Christina Blevins Ernie and Linda Sprouse Kathryn and Ralph Ragan Fizzy Wigs – Keith Guinn Isabelle and Richard Ladd Ivis and Sam Perkins Jay and Marianne Fischer Jerry Allen Wolfe Kathryn Cole Kathy LaPlante Katy Stigers KS Promotional Products – Kim Sproles Lee and Rachel Shillito Lucyann Jewell Margaret and Bill Wade Marjorie Tester Mr. and Mrs. Challen Walling Mr. and Mrs. Charles J. Rainero Paul and Donna Malone Peggy Rogers Peyton Boyd Pierce Elliott Quinn Craughwell Landscape Architects Ralph and Terri Davis René Rodgers Ron and Anna Morgan Thomas and Barbara Daniel Tim and Vicie Dotson Wilma Gill
Goods & Services Support AiPP – Art in Public Places Along Came Mary – Mary Jane Miller Arts Alliance Mountain Empire Ben and Cam Collins Benjamin Walls Gallery Birthplace of Country Music Blackbird Bakery Briana Morris Bristol Chamber of Commerce / Convention & Visitors Bureau/ Bristol Entrepreneurial Center Bristol Herald Courier Bristol Historical Association
Bristol Office Supply Bristol Organizations Bristol Public Library BVU Camellia Digital Agency Campbell Printing of Bristol Celebrate Bristol City of Bristol, TN City of Bristol, VA Coca-Cola Bottling Company Cranberry Lane Cumulus Media David Warren, CPA Eric Blevins Express AV Productions Fizzy Wiggs Heritage TV Hill and Dale Garden Club Keen Promotional Products King University KS Promotional Products McClellan Interiors LLC – Christa McClellan National Trust for Historic Preservation Paul Malone, PC Repair People Incorporated Peyton Boyd Architect PC Sarah Hutchinson Tennessee Main Street Program Tennessee Tourism The Blue Stocking Club The Junior League of Bristol The National Main Street Program The Paramount Center for the Arts Tri-Cities Tent and Event Twin City Photo Club United Screen Design Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development / Virginia Main Street Program Virginia Tourism Corporation Walling Distributing Waste Management WCYB News 5
Journey’s End
Fatz Cafe First Tennessee Bank Beth McCoy Folk Soul Revival Bob Greene Foundation Event Facility City of Bristol, TN Gail Shaver City of Bristol, VA Goodman Jewelers Ladies of the Evening, Emmanuel Episcopal Green with Envy Church Head to Toe Mayor Lea Powers Hill Photography Pete Buhls Inari Wines Robert Hollo Jennifer Wilson Southeast Culinary & Hospitality College The directors and choirs of Emmanuel Episcopal Josh Helms Salon Joyce Rodgers Church, First Presbyterian Church, Redeemer Lutheran Church, State Street United Methodist Junior League of Bristol Keen Promotions Church and Central Presbyterian Church Kil’n Time King University KP Catering on Bank Street Downtown Showcase Donors / Restaurants KP Duty L.C. King Manufacturing / Pointer Brand 606 State Street Gallery Linda Pruner 620 State Restaurant Little Italy Along Came Mary - Mary Jane Miller Macado’s Amy and Doug Williams Manna Bagel Appalachian Cultural Music Association Marjorie Tester Applebee’s MedExpress Arby’s Classic Mellow Mushroom Art in Public Places Misty Mountain Designs Ashby Dickerson Mountain Empire Comics Balanced Yoga — Landy Mathes Northeast State Community College Becky Faidley One of a Kind Gallery Benjamin Walls Gallery Pat Jessee Bethany Wilson Pen’s Floral BIB Board of Directors and Committee Phyl’s of Bristol Members Birchfield Real Estate & Auction — Jason Blevins Pizza Hut Pretty Girl Station Birthplace of Country Music Quaker Steak & Lube Blackbird Bakery Red Lobster blowfish emporium René Rodgers Brenda Williams Revolution Curbside Recycling Briana Morris Rhythm & Boots Bristol Ballet Salon 525 Bristol Baseball Salsarita’s Bristol Historical Association Sam Bass Bristol Public Library Serendipity Bristol VA Parks & Recreation Department Shang Hai Chinese Restaurant Bruce McCamish Sheri McRae Burger Bar Shoozies Carefree Boat Club Sidetrack Tobacco Celebrate Bristol Southeast Culinary & Hospitality College Chad Keen Stateline Bar & Grille Chandler Landscape Design & Planning — Stately Dogs Chris Chandler Strange Awakenings Band Chef Catherine Elliott Studio 6 Apparel Chili’s Symphony of the Mountains Chuck S. Thompson Tammi Berry Clear Creek Golf Course Teresa Kath Cranberry Lane The Harlow Experience Eatz on Moore Street The Olive Garden Emily Patton The Paramount Center for the Arts Everything Nice Appliqués & Monograms The Virginian Golf Club Express AV Productions
Theatre Bristol Tinseltown Todd Hester Top Hat Magic Twin City Photo Club Vicie Dotson VIP Seen Vision LLC — Allen Hurley Williams Investments & Properties Wilma Gill Wm. King Clothiers YWCA
Downtown Showcase Table Sponsors Alpha Natural Resources Bristol Virginia Utilities Burke, Powers & Harty BurWil Construction Nash & Powers Serendipity Spiegler Blevins Susan and Clyde Long & Friends Wells Fargo
FY 2014 Budget Summary Income 41%
WHY I GIVE
Grants (Federal, State, Cities, Other)
28%
Individual, Corporate, Merchant Investments
31%
Program Events
Briana Morris
Expenses (Rent, 52% Administration Utilities, Supplies, Payroll)
17% Promotions Committee 2%
Design Committee
18% Organization Committee 3%
Economic Restructuring Committee
8%
Other
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We have such a gem of a downtown, and Believe in Bristol has had a lot more to do with how awesome it is now than people even realize! One of the most valuable things I believe this organization does is provide events that bring the surrounding community to the downtown scene — Art D'Vine gallery hops and art camps for kids being two of my favorites. They are a small organization, but far-reaching; they make sure the voices of downtown merchants and residents are heard, and the opinions of the BIB staff are valuable to community leaders. Believe in Bristol truly believes in the value of our downtown district, and they're always looking to improve the experience for residents and visitors alike.
”
A Work of Art Gallery artist , and Arts & Entertainment and Film Festival Committee Member
WHY I GIVE
Believe in Bristol has changed the face of our downtown, and the vibrancy and growth we see today wouldn't have been possible without the organization's commitment, passion, support, and continual advocacy. BIB has worked hard to support small businesses and bring new entrepreneurs to our downtown, while also helping to develop fun events and activities that everyone can enjoy. These are the types of things that make our downtown so special. I am lucky to be involved with the organization as a volunteer and board member. Being a part of BIB has given me a strong stake in our downtown community, and I love that this has in turn given me the opportunity to play a small role in the revitalization process.
René Rodgers
Associate Curator, Birthplace of Country Music Museum, and Arts & Entertainment and Film Festival Committee Member
Believe in Bristol 2015 Calendar Year Downtown Business Supporter Options
Benefits
No Cost
Downtown Friend
$250
Downtown Promoter $500
Downtown Advocate $1,000
Downtown SUPERSTAR $2,500
Downtown Promoter $500
Downtown Advocate $1,000
Downtown SUPERSTAR $2,500
Subscription to BIB’s Weekly e-News Blast Notifications for Quarterly Informational Downtown Gatherings/ Neighborhood Watch Receive a copy of BIB’s Annual Organizational Report Participation in the Annual Christmas Open House Benefit of BIB’s promotion of all Historic Downtown Bristol– i.e. Newspaper, Radio, T.V. Downtown Bristol Business Alert Notifications Free Vendor Space during Border Bash Summer Concert Series Invites to various small business promotional & educational seminars sponsored by BIB Eligibility to apply for the Annual Downtown Entrepreneur’s Prize Listing on BIB website and a link to your business Large Window Sticker showing your support of BIB Business promotions & events listed on BIB online events calendar, e-News Blast and social media Participation in cooperative advertising opportunities in local and regional media Your Marketing Materials Promoted & Displayed in BIB's Visitors Center YouTube Video Produced by BIB specifically for your business Camiosk (our digital kiosk located in the BIB Visitor Center) Advertising Downtown Promoter Sponsor: Loft Tour Sponsor, 2 Loft Tour Tickets, Listed on Border Bash Poster Downtown Advocate Sponsor: Loft Tour Sponsor, 4 Loft Tour Tickets, Listed on Border Bash Poster & announced, 2 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion Weekend Passes
Believe in Bristol 2015 Calendar Year Public/Outside DT Supporter Options
Downtown SUPERSTAR Sponsor: Loft Tour Sponsor, 8 Loft Tour Tickets, Listed on Border Bash Poster & announced on stage, 4 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion Weekend Passes, 2 Paramount Center for the Arts Season Passes, 2 PUSH! Film Festival Weekend Passes
Benefits
No Cost
Downtown Friend $250
Subscription to BIB’s Weekly e-News Blast Receive a copy of BIB’s Annual Organizational Report Large Window Sticker showing your support of BIB Listing on BIB website and a link to your business Your Marketing Materials Promoted & Displayed in BIB's Visitors Center Camiosk (our digital kiosk located in the BIB Visitor Center) Advertising Downtown Promoter Sponsor: Loft Tour Sponsor, 2 Loft Tour Tickets, Listed on Border Bash poster, Free Vendor Space at Border Bash Downtown Advocate Sponsor: Loft Tour Sponsor, 4 Loft Tour Tickets, Listed on Border Bash poster & announced, Free Vendor Space at Border Bash 2 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion Weekend Passes Downtown SUPERSTAR Sponsor: Loft Tour Sponsor, 8 Loft Tour Tickets, Listed on Border Bash Poster and announced on stage, Free Vendor Space at Border Bash, 4 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion Weekend Passes, 2 Paramount Center for the Arts Season Passes, 2 PUSH! Film Festival Weekend Passes Downtown Fan: Individuals & Families—Suggested Donation of $100 (However any donation is appreciated & will be considered a “Fan” of Downtown) Weekly e-news ∙ Small Window Sticker ∙ Annual Report/Achievements ***All donations are tax-deductible (please discuss with your accountant) **Premiere Sponsorships are available for the Border Bash Summer Concert Series, From the Top Down Loft Tour and the Christmas Open House. Contact Believe in Bristol for your custom sponsorship options.
36 Moore Street
Non-Profit Org US Postage PAID MWI
Bristol, VA 24201 (276) 644-9700 www.believeinbristol.org
2013 — 2014 Board of Directors President Marjorie Tester, First Tennessee Bank Vice President Sarah Hutchinson, Bristol Chamber of Commerce & Bristol Convention & Visitors Bureau Secretary Emily Patton, Edward Jones Investments Treasurer Vicie Dotson, Bristol, VA School Board Past President Kathryn Cole, Wellmont
Jean Burnette, The Boxwood Antiques Brian Ritz, BVU Chris Chandler, Chandler Landscape Design
RenĂŠ Rodgers, Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Ben Collins, LC King Manufacturing
Bill Sorah, City of Bristol, TN
Quinn Craughwell, Quinn Craughwell Landscape Architects
Katy Stigers, YWCA
Tabitha Crowder, City of Bristol VA Wilma Gill, Bristol Historical Association Bill Hartley, City of Bristol VA Michael Haslam, Peyton Boyd Architects
Christina Hendricks, MedExpress Charlene Baker, Birthplace of Country Chad Keen, City of Bristol TN Music Shari Brown, City of Bristol TN
Emily Loudon, King University
Kacey Buchanan, National League of Junior Cotillions
Terry Napier, City of Bristol TN
Designed by: Sarah Hutchinson
Andrew Trivette, City of Bristol VA Bethany Wilson, Williams Investment Property Karen Witcher, Bristol Chamber of Commerce & Bristol Entrepreneurial Center Executive Director Christina Blevins Associate Director Brad White