HD63 - Planning an American Celebration


Executive Summary:
A Commemoration for All Virginians, the Nation and the World

In less than seven years, Virginia, the nation and the world will have the opportunity to commemorate one of the seminal events in history: The 400th anniversary of the beginning of the United States with the founding of Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in the New World in 1607. The primary focus of all Celebration 2007 planning over the past three-plus years has laid the groundwork for an observance in 2007 that is truly statewide, involving people and institutions that represent the diversity of the Commonwealth. These early steps are seen as prerequisites to expanding the scope of the observance to national and international levels. This interim report describes the range of potential benefits to the Commonwealth and its citizens and offers a road map to guide the work that lies ahead.

The report outlines the major components of the planning for the next seven years:

• The development and growth of cultural, educational, heritage, tourism and economic development possibilities for all Virginians and all communities in the state.

• A range of local, regional, state, national and international promotions designed to raise awareness of the anniversary's commemorative activities and the importance of Jamestown and Virginia in the nation's founding.

• Development of major capital improvements to historic sites, museums and visitor facilities in Virginia to promote the commemoration and serve the Commonwealth for the next 50 years.

Goals

The report outlines and reinforces the three guiding goals of the celebration:

• "Tourism Development Return on Investment-Promotion of tourism throughout the Commonwealth"

• "Economic Development Return on Investment-Positive economic impact on all Virginia Communities"

• "Educational Return on Investment-New awareness of Virginia's pivotal role in the founding of the nation that remains a beacon to the world today"