Category: Promotions

Staunton’s strategic arts investment and the power of community

December 28, 2009

Just as the Oregon Shakespeare Festival anchors a comprehensive and lively arts scene in the City of Ashland, Oregon, the American Shakespeare Center has sparked greater investment in the performing arts as an economic tool in the Shenandoah Valley community of Staunton. Soon, in addition to menu of Shakespeare at the Blackfriar’s Playhouse, community leaders hope to offer visitors contemporary … More Staunton’s strategic arts investment and the power of community

Blackstone holiday events keep local elves busy

December 21, 2009

Downtown Blackstone, Inc. (DBI) has been full of activity this holiday season, successfully coordinating retail promotions and image building events. The Second Annual Downtown Holiday Open House kicked off the season November 27. Following the Grand Illumination in the town park, DBi drew crowds into downtown by coordinating activities with the local merchants, such as carriage rides, choral … More Blackstone holiday events keep local elves busy

Video: Culpeper’s thriving foodshed

December 21, 2009

Downtown Culpeper’s focus on farm fresh food through the farmer’s market, destination restaurants, and special food themed events has contributed to the revitalization of the historic community.  Watch “Meet the Farmer” host Michael Clark talk with community leaders involved in the new vitality of Culpeper.  The segment features Culpeper Renaissance, Inc. in a success story that builds on the … More Video: Culpeper’s thriving foodshed

Guest Blogger: Orange’s Jeff Curtis on rallying Main Street around customer service training

December 17, 2009

We’re turning over the space today to Jeff Curtis, director of the Orange Downtown Alliance for some tips on rallying downtown merchants for an effective training.  One of the recurring issues addressed in our Business Development Committee meetings has been customer service, or more specifically, the lack of it.  It’s an important issue for any community, and especially … More Guest Blogger: Orange’s Jeff Curtis on rallying Main Street around customer service training

Virginia Tourism site can send visitors to your Main Street

November 15, 2009

Did you know that Virginia.org receives six million visitors a year?  The goal of Virginia Tourism Corporation is “more people, staying longer, spending more money,” and your community can be a part of this. Check out the city, town and county link to see if yours is listed. No? Reach out to your local tourism center, chamber of commerce … More Virginia Tourism site can send visitors to your Main Street

How green is your Main Street?

November 13, 2009

How green is your Main Street? The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC), and Virginia Hospitality & Travel Association (VHTA) have partnered for the Virginia Green program. This is the statewide campaign to promote environmentally friendly practices in Virginia’s tourism industry – and it’s one more opportunity to market your community. Certification is … More How green is your Main Street?

Virginia Main Street celebrity siting

October 19, 2009

The Star Exponent says it was Culpeper’s “cool and unassuming” nature that drew a rock  icon to town last week.  And there’s probably something to that.  The town’s Main Street effort, led by Culpeper Renaissance, Inc., has done much to foster the  town as an epicurean destination. A vibrant farmer’s market, gourmet food and wine shops, and fine dining … More Virginia Main Street celebrity siting