NOV/DEC 2020
Dear CIBS members,
It’s been awhile since we’ve been able to gather and wanted to let you know what we’ve been up to for the last few months.
As COVID-19 continues to spread, the future has never felt so unpredictable for the arts and entertainment industry. Since the pandemic started, each act that was booked (or in planning) for an event, membership meeting, BITS, club show, etc. (and then COVID-cancelled) has been paid in full. The board felt that this was an important commitment we had made to the artists who have been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 protocols. We felt this was the best way we could continue to support the blues during this time and it has helped make a difference for many artists.
At last count, we have paid out over $16,000. The ability to do this is afforded by our strong membership and our volunteer board of directors that is dedicated to our mission. Not to mention the Bravo Greater Des Moines grant we received last year.
Now more than ever the blues community needs us. And we need you to continue doing what we do to support the blues during these trying times. We are not asking for donations. Your continued membership is the support we need. You can also advocate for us by sharing our mission with a family member or friend. Even a quick mention about CIBS on your social media would mean the world to us.
With the increase in infections across the nation and around the world CIBS is extending the cancellation of all our in-person gatherings through March of 2021 in hopes that the infection rates will start to slow, and a much-needed vaccine will become available.
In times like this, we’re reminded of how interconnected we all are. Thank you for being part of our Blues Family! Without you, none of what we do is possible.
Here’s wishing you all the happiest of Holidays!
Stay safe and Be well,
Scott Allen
President, Central Iowa Blues Society
Winter Blues Fest / SpringFest
As we close out 2020 (thankfully), here’s what’s been going on with CIBS. First of all, out of an abundance of caution (we’re starting to really dislike that phrase, by the way), your Board of Directors has made the determination that the 2021 Winter Blues Fest will be cancelled.
Winter Blues Fest is a very important part of our annual budget – but it is also a significant financial investment for the club and most of those commitments are made with the plan that people will be attending the show. While it does look like there is some light at the end of the tunnel, (and without getting into a political fray) based on the protocols in place right now we can’t hold the event in Des Moines.
Winter Blues Fest WILL be back in 2022! The dates February 11-12, 2022 are being held at the Downtown Marriott and we are excited to bring everyone back together when it is safer to do so.
That doesn’t mean “no live music” until then, though. We are planning SpringFest again for the Sunday before Memorial Day – May 30, 2021. This outdoor event will be the same format as in previous years, great bands, fruity sangria, and FREE ADMISSION. Social distancing protocols will of course be in place as required, but this is always well attended, and will be a great time for everyone!
Thanks to each of you for continuing your support of the Central Iowa Blues Society!
Follow us on Facebook!
Be sure to follow CIBS on Facebook for some fun and interesting content. CIBS Education Chair, Steve Vasquez, features a monthly series he calls “Where In The World: A Blues Ambassador’s Travels”, with videos, stories, interviews and the like about Blues Educators in other parts of the world. Steve also puts on his chef hat and goes LIVE with “Out Of The Blues Kitchen”. In this episode he was joined by special guest, Tom Buckmiller as they made a savory waffle, chicken bacon ranch sandwich! Don’t miss out… check it out!
Live Music & Streaming Concerts
The List – Live Music
DSMTV Live
Iowa Live Music
Can’t Stop the Blues
Information about live music and online streaming can be found at the links above. Many opportunities here to help out the artists financially with online tips. Also, be sure to check out your favorite artists websites and social media pages for more information on how you can support by buying CDs and other merchandise.
Mississippi Valley Blues Society
Our friends at Mississippi Valley Blues Society have a nifty new website, logo, and a 30-minute documentary to check out! 35 Years: A Celebration of The Mississippi Valley Blues Festival –>>
Volunteers
As the Holiday Season approaches Scott Benton and I wanted to take a minute and tell all of our past, present, and future volunteers how extremely grateful we are to have all of you. Without the contribution of the volunteer’s time and effort many of the CIBS events would not have been possible nor will they be possible without you. Scott and I were extremely excited when we replaced the wonderful Deb Bodson upon her retirement as CIBS’ Production Committee Chair. There were many great shows scheduled and we were looking forward to organizing the volunteers for the Winter Blues Festival, which was to be held February 2021. We have experienced numerous show cancellations due to the Covid-19 pandemic including the Winter Blues Festival. Scott and I are optimistic that by Spring we will be able to gather again and enjoy the live music we all cherish. Meanwhile, as we wait, Scott and I need your help. We are working on updating our volunteer database. We are asking all of our CIBS members who have volunteered in the past or who would like the opportunity to volunteer in the future to please reach out to us. Please email your name and contact information to volunteers@cibs.org. We look forward to working with all of you again. ~ Diane Hoffman, CIBS Production Co-Chair
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