Cultural District Name/Location I. CONTACT INFORMATION

Cultural District Application

Cultural District Name/Location

BOCAGE CULTURAL DISTRICT

Name of Proposed Cultural District BATON ROUGE, EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH, LOUISIANA

Location of Cultural District (city and parish)

I. CONTACT INFORMATION A. Local Governing Authority Contact The Local Governing Authority (LGA) applying for certification of a Cultural District is the municipality OR the parish OR the consolidated government in which the Cultural District is located. The Designated Liaison must be completed for all applications.

1. Contact for Municipal Governing Authority: Name: JOHN DELGADO

Title COUNCILMAN,______DISTRICT______12______Agency METROPOLI______T_AN___ CIT___Y-P___ARISH______COUNCIL______

Mailing Address: 222 ST. LOUIS STREET ROOM 358

City: BATON ROUGE ______State: LA Zip Code: 70802 ______

Phone: 225( -389)- 4697 ______Ext. Fax: 225( -389)- 8895

Email Address: [email protected] ______

2. Contact for Parish Governing Authority: Name: Mayor-President Melvin L. “Kip" Holden

Title: Mayor______Agen cy City of_ Baton______Rouge_____ office_____ of__ the___ _Mayor______-President

Mailing Address:222 St Louis St. 3rd floor

City:Baton Rouge State: LA ____ zip Code:( 70802) Phone_:225.389.3100_____ EFax:xt. 225.389.5203( ) Email Address: [email protected]______

B. Designated Cultural District Liaison Name of the contact person designated to act on behalf of the Local Governing Authority Name: MARK BILETNIKOFF

Title: PRESIDENT______Organization/Agency BOCAGE___ CU___L_TURAL______DISTRICT______

Mailing Address: 7809 JEFFERSON HWY. SUITE B3

City: BATON ROUGE State: LA Zip Code: 70809 ____

Phone: (225 -324) -8936 Ext. Fax: N/A( )

Email Address: [email protected] ______

CD-Application 2013 Page 2 of 9 Cultural District Application

II. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION Though a district’s size and shape are not restricted, they are important considerations. Refer to the Application Procedures on Pages 3-4 in determining the Cultural District boundaries.

A. Boundary Provide a concise, accurate written description of the proposed Cultural District using start and end points, using street names and directions that fully describe the designated geographic area. Use the centerline of visible physical features whenever possible, or specify if the boundary is on a non-visible feature or property line. Fit description in space provided. If it will not fit in the space provided attach a separate document. Maps provided should match the description exactly.

The Bocage Cultural District is delineated by the following contiguous boundaries, beginning at the corner of Jefferson Highway and Brandon Drive, and traveling in a north westerly direction on Jefferson Highway, and continuing on Jefferson Highway to the corner of Jefferson Highway and Thibodeaux Avenue, turning right heading north to Sevenoaks Avenue taking a right traveling in a easterly direction to the Lobdell Boulevard turning right traveling South to Jefferson Highway, and taking a left on Old Hammond Highway and traveling in an easterly direction to Palm Hills Drive, Taking a right on Palm Hills Drive in a southeasterly direction Turn left onto Poirier Place circling back to Palm Hills Drive taking a left continuing in a southeasterly direction which dead ends to private property as the boundary line continues a straight path until it intersects with Kensington Drive taking a right south western turn at the corner of Kensington and Brandon Drive, continue to the corner of Brandon Drive and Jefferson Highway which delineates the district’s boundary. The Cultural District is contained within this contiguous border and includes the businesses, residences and structures containing a physical address of Jefferson Highway, Old Hammond Highway, Thibodeaux Avenue, Lobdell Boulevard, Palm Hills, Poirier Place, Kensington Drive and Brandon Drive frontage up to the corner points stated as: the corner of Jefferson Highway and Brandon Drive, the corner Thibodeaux Avenue and Sevenoaks Avenue, the corner of Sevenoaks Avenue and Lobdell Boulevard, the corner of Old Hammond Highway and Jefferson Highway, the corner of Old Hammond Highway and Palm Hills Drive, and the corner of Kensington Drive and Brandon Drive.

B. District Information Does the proposed district align with other existing districts, such as a Main Street District, Downtown Development District, National Register or locally designated Historic District, etc.? Yes. If yes, please name it/them:

No. If no, please explain why not: Our District does not align with any existing districts currently in our area. Our district contains a unique 10,000 sq. ft. artist studio complex. This three building complex in an adaptive use facility houses 40 artists in private artist studios and arts education/instructional programs. The Bocage Cultural District is unique and holds this unique artist focused hub that continues to grow and prosper. N the art space is one of the largest artist studio complexes in Louisiana.

CD-Application 2013 Page 3 of 9 Cultural District Application

C. Feature Data Provide estimates, as accurate as possible, of the following features in the proposed Cultural District using geographic systems, municipal data, Census data, surveys, and general knowledge.

16 Louisiana Senate District number(s)

6 Louisiana Representative District number(s)

11 City Council District number(s)

11 Parish Council/Police Jury District number(s)

1.65 Geographic area (in square miles)

8,000 Population

656 Total number of buildings

25 to 60 years old Approximate age of the majority of buildings

300 Number of commercial buildings

356 Number of residential buildings

280 Number of occupied buildings

20 Number of vacant buildings

320 Number of commercial businesses

Indicate the percent of businesses that fall into each of these categories:

40% Professional and Finance- architect, lawyer, bank, CPA

24.3 % Service providers- printers, salons, cleaners, service stations, fitness

11% Retail- grocery, clothing, gift, office, stationery, drug, auto supplies

6.5% Restaurants- bars, clubs, fast food

.9% Entertainment- music venues, performance spaces

16.8 % Arts/Cultural- historic sites, museums, galleries, studio space

0.62% Government

0.31% Non-Profit

1.25% Other (Explain) Retirement Home/Assisted living, Religious organizations and private club(s).

CD-Application 2013 Page 4 of 9 Cultural District Application

D. Cultural Assets Inventory List existing cultural assets such as a museum, art institution, art and entertainment businesses, arts/cultural organization, artists, an area with arts and cultural activities or cultural or artisan production, year-round or seasonal. Name Category (choose from list) >ŝƐƚ KƉƚŝŽŶƐ N the art space Artist Studios/Art Education Facility Architectural site/event! CC Lockwood Gallery Artist, Gallery ! Pink Pelican Art Art education, Gallery Artists Arts market! ! Williamson -Howard Fine Art Gallery Art Gallery, Artist Studio Arts/Cultural Martins Gallery & Frame Gallery, Arts Cultural Business business! ! Latte E Meille Cultural Activities Arts/Cultural organization! Evolve Gallery & Salon Spa Gallery ! Culinary Avalon Hair Salon Gallery enterprise! ! Dance The Gallery Spa Gallery, Cultural Activities company/ Elude Spa Gallery event! !

0 Educational 0 institution! ! 0 Farmers 0 market! ! 0 Festival! 0 ! Film/Video/ Media venue/ 0 event! 0 ! Gallery! 0 ! Heritage 0 center! 0 ! Historic site! 0 ! Literary 0 institute/event! ! 0 Museum! 0 ! Music venue/ 0 event! 0 ! 0 0

CD-Application 2013 Page 5 of 9 Cultural District Application

E. Maps Please provide legible maps, preferably 8½ by 11, but not larger than 11 by 17 inches. Maps may be in color or black and white. Label Attachment- Maps. 1) Required: A map precisely outlining the boundaries of the proposed Cultural District, showing boundary and major street names, a north arrow, with legible labels 2) One map showing existing National Register, local historic, or Main Street districts 3) Optional: Provide map(s) showing the location of cultural, art, educational, and tourist assets or facilities, or additional information pertinent to the proposed Cultural District

Possible resources for maps and other data requested in the application: Municipal and/or parish planning office Louisiana Regional Planning districts- http://wwwprd.doa.louisiana.gov/census/plandist.htm Google Earth- http://earth.google.com/ Google SketchUp- http://www.sketchup.com/ College or university geography department Louisiana Census Data Center- http://www.census.gov/sdc/www/lasdc.html Local or Regional Arts Councils

F. Photographs Provide five to ten (10) photographs representative of the district. Please number photographs and caption the photo content. Optional: A map showing the numbered location of the photographs provided. Label Attachment- Photographs.

III. PROGRAM OBJECTIVES Provide concise narratives to address what the Cultural District will do with regard to the achievement of the objectives suggested in each of the three areas of development listed below. Each narrative is limited to 500 words. A. ARTISTIC/CULTURAL PRODUCT Promote the arts and support artists Encourage creativity and cultural activities Attract artists and cultural industries workers Potential for artists, housing, studio, and performance space (rental or purchase) The creation of the proposed new Cultural District designation will create an increased interest in studio space, allow us to expand our community arts education for adults and children and assist in the revitalization of The Settlement complex and area retail centers by attracting additional cultural, art and design oriented business to the area. In addition, the formation of this additional Cultural District will help expand arts and culture awareness in the Baton Rouge area by offering an actual artist studio complex hub that can work alongside other districts to promote, expand and unite Baton Rouge on a Cultural level. The Bocage Cultural District will promote and support artists by continuing to grow our hub. N the art space currently houses 40 private professional artist studios. The facility directly supports artist growth on a personal and community level. N the art space holds 4 open house events annually, to showcase the artwork and the creative process, where the artists speak and interact with the community. The space attracts artists on a regular basis and continues to maintain a waiting list for studio space. It consistently receives referrals from local art businesses, galleries and other artists. The art space maintains a website and Facebook page and is listed online through search engines. Since its 2005 opening in the current location, N the art space has attracted other art and design businesses to the complex and helped revitalize the area. As the hub of the Bocage Cultural District, N the art space has a huge potential for growth and will continue to harbor local artists and arts educational instruction. The current studio space rental program is strong and the largest in the area.

CD-Application 2013 Page 6 of 9 Cultural District Application

B. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT – What will the CD do to achieve any of these objectives? Engage residents Provide a sense of community Serve as gathering place Strengthen community partnerships Develop a positive image for the community The BCD will utilize its hub, N the art space and also other art related businesses inside its contiguous borders to enhance cultural development, attract more art and design oriented commerce which will help enhance property values and stimulate our retail economy. Cross walks are being installed to increase our pedestrian access and safety as well as new traffic signals as part of Mayor Kip Holden’s Green Light Plan. N the art space has already begun to revitalize The Settlement retail center which had been at a low occupancy and began to show signs of disrepair and damage from Hurricane Katrina. The revitalization of this center and adaptive re-use into a cultural hub will create a positive outlook for its future potential. Many of the surrounding neighborhoods and patrons of our large artist base gather at this location 4 times per year. The Settlement retail complex is transformed into a walkable arts complex allowing visitors to tour the three building arts complex while also offering outdoor music performances in our courtyard and live painting throughout the grounds. The family oriented cultural experience showcases a multitude of media and arts education facilities for children and adults. The image of the area is a positive image for cultural growth in the city and is poised to attract national attention for our efforts to expand creative expression.

As an Arts Administrator and artist, Mark Biletnikoff , art space Director, consistently looks to future growth. It is his intention to pursue national recognition for the art space facility and Baton Rouge in the arts arena. Its growth, recognition and future can only benefit from the creation of this new proposed district. Our Community support at the personal and business level fuels our drive to achieve our goals and we are confident in our efforts.

C. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - What will the CD do to achieve any of these objectives? Capitalize on cultural, economic and social assets Revitalize a neighborhood or area Enhance property values Stimulate the economy Draw tourists

The proposed Bocage Cultural District encompasses approximately 1.65sq. miles of retail stores, art galleries, banking institutions, physician offices, restaurants, grocery stores, and various commercial and residential structures. We intend to capitalize on these cultural and economic assets by maintaining an online presence that lists participating businesses and associations. Unifying the area under the Cultural District designation will help revitalize communication and the area's sense of community. This will help cultivate and stimulate its economy by increasing area awareness through cultural promotion. N the art space already has maintained a five-year track record of maintaining a community and tourist draw to the area through its annual open house events.

CD-Application 2013 Page 7 of 9 Cultural District Application

IV. OUTREACH A. Communication (about the Cultural District program within the district) Provide a concise narrative that describes how the Applicant will manage communication within the Cultural District, addressing the items listed below. Communication to residents, businesses and organizations within the Cultural District Provide information about sales tax exemption of original works of art to vendors Provide information about State Historic Tax Credits to property owners Communication within the proposed Bocage Cultural District will be disseminated through email and the web and quarterly meetings. This information will be made readily available to all residents and businesses within the district. Participants will have the opportunity to subscribe to the email list to receive up to date information about upcoming and current events happening within the district. The website will be accessible to the public to ensure information is also available to those outside the district. The quarterly meetings will be utilized to plan for future events and to address ideas and concerns within the district. The Bocage cultural district board and committees will forward all necessary district information about Historic tax credits, sales tax exemptions of original art and other pertinent information describing the benefits and responsibilities of participating in a cultural district. The board and committee members are: President – Mark Biletnikoff Vice President – Robbin Richards Liaison – Kerry Kilpatrick Liaison – Brittany Howard

B. Promotion (within the district and beyond) Provide a concise narrative that describes how the Applicant will manage promotion of the Cultural District, addressing the items listed below. Promote the businesses, events, and programs of the Cultural District to the public Provide for networking opportunities among residents Provide opportunities for planning and promoting district wide events

Promotion of the Bocage Cultural District will begin with social media, internet and print. The District will maintain a Facebook page, website and utilize print media when necessary to keep residents, the public and other interested parties abreast of the districts events. Utilizing N the art space as its hub, The Bocage Cultural District will create a welcoming cultural environment that increases foot traffic from surrounding residential and commercial areas. This will increase area communication, familial interaction and generate a community energy centered on arts culture and commerce. The area for the proposed district is walkable and manageable. We have secured the installation of cross walks to assist in connecting neighborhoods and giving pedestrian traffic safe access to adjacent businesses and activities. Businesses and organizations will also have the opportunity to participate in coop advertising as part of the Bocage Cultural District. The board and committee will coordinate and partner with one or more local publications prior to a district wide event.

CD-Application 2013 Page 8 of 9

RESOLUTION NO. ______

A Resolution in support of an application for the creation of the BOCAGE CULTURAL DISTRICT.

WHEREAS, Act 298 of the 2007 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature authorizes Local Governing Authorities to create Cultural Districts as a mechanism for community revitalization through the creation of hubs of cultural activity; and

WHEREAS, the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, Office of Cultural Development is authorized to develop standard criteria for cultural districts and to determine whether or not a proposed Cultural District meets those criteria; and

WHEREAS, the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, Office of Cultural Development has promulgated administrative rules which set forth the procedure for Local Governing Authorities to submit applications to designate and certify a specified geographic area as a Cultural District; and

WHEREAS, the geographic area within the City of Baton Rouge, Parish of East Baton Rouge, may meet the criteria for the creation of a Cultural District which area is generally comprised of the territory within the following boundaries:

The Cultural District is contained within this contiguous border and includes the businesses, residences and structures containing a physical address of Jefferson Highway, Old Hammond Highway, Thibodeaux Avenue, Lobdell Boulevard, Palm Hills, Poirier Place, Kensington Drive and Brandon Drive frontage up to the corner points stated as: the corner of Jefferson Highway and Brandon Drive, the corner Thibodeaux Avenue and Sevenoaks Avenue, the corner of Sevenoaks Avenue and Lobdell Boulevard, the corner of Old Hammond Highway and Jefferson Highway, the corner of Old Hammond Highway and Palm Hills Drive, and the corner of Kensington Drive and Brandon Drive.

and

WHEREAS, within the boundaries of a state-certified Cultural District, several tax incentives may be available including (1) a sales tax exemption on the sale of certain original works of art, (2) individual income tax credits for eligible expenses incurred during the rehabilitation of certain owner-occupied residential or owner-occupied mixed use structures, and (3) income and corporate franchise tax credits for eligible expenses incurred during the rehabilitation of certain historic structures; and

WHEREAS, only a Local Governing Authority is authorized to submit an application for the designation and certification of a Cultural District; and

WHEREAS, a "Local Governing Authority" is defined by LAC 25:I§1101 as "the governing authority of the parish in which the Cultural District is located unless the district is located in a municipality, in which case "Local Governing Authority" shall mean the governing authority of the municipality. If the district is located partly in a municipality, "Local Governing Authority" shall mean the governing authority of the parish and the governing authority of the municipality"; and

WHEREAS, the BOCAGE CULTURAL DISTRICT is located entirely within the municipality of Baton Rouge and therefore the Metropolitan Council for the City of Baton Rouge and Parish of East Baton Rouge would be the proper entity to submit an application for the certification and designation of the above described geographic area as a Cultural District. NOW THEREFORE, be it resolved that the Metropolitan Council for the City of Baton Rouge and Parish of East Baton Rouge does hereby: 1. Support and endorse the submission of an application to the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, Office of Cultural Development to designate the BOCAGE CULTURAL DISTRICT as a state-certified Cultural District; and 2. Delegate its authority to submit said application and all supporting documents, reports, and other forms required for the creation, administration, and reporting to MARK MICHAEL BILETNIKOFF; and 3. Direct all city (or parish) employees to support and cooperate with efforts to compile all necessary information and data required for the application and all subsequent reporting necessary for the administration of the BOCAGE CULTURAL DISTRICT; and 4. Request all affected citizens and businesses to support and promote activities consistent with the purposes of the BOCAGE CULTURAL DISTRICT; and 5. Authorize the Mayor to sign any and all documents required for the creation and administration of the BOCAGE CULTURAL DISTRICT.

ADOPTED ON THIS _____ Day of ______, 2014.

______Name, Secretary and/or Chairman

ORDINANCE NO. ______

An Ordinance in support of an application for the creation of the BOCAGE CULTURAL DISTRICT. WHEREAS, Act 298 of the 2007 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature authorizes Local Governing Authorities to create Cultural Districts as a mechanism for community revitalization through the creation of hubs of cultural activity; and WHEREAS, the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, Office of Cultural Development is authorized to develop standard criteria for cultural districts and to determine whether or not a proposed Cultural District meets those criteria; and WHEREAS, the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, Office of Cultural Development has promulgated administrative rules which set forth the procedure for Local Governing Authorities to submit applications to designate and certify a specified geographic area as a Cultural District; and WHEREAS, the geographic area within the City of Baton Rouge, Parish of East Baton Rouge, may meet the criteria for the creation of a Cultural District which area is generally comprised of the territory within the following boundaries:

and, WHEREAS, within the boundaries of a state-certified Cultural District, several tax incentives may be available including (1) a sales tax exemption on the sale of certain original works of art, (2) individual income tax credits for eligible expenses incurred during the rehabilitation of certain owner-occupied residential or owner-occupied mixed use structures, and (3) income and corporate franchise tax credits for eligible expenses incurred during the rehabilitation of certain historic structures; and WHEREAS, only a Local Governing Authority is authorized to submit an application for the designation and certification of a Cultural District; and WHEREAS, a "Local Governing Authority" is defined by LAC 25:I§1101 as "the governing authority of the parish in which the Cultural District is located unless the district is located in a municipality, in which case "Local Governing Authority" shall mean the governing authority of the municipality. If the district is located partly in a municipality, "Local Governing Authority" shall mean the governing authority of the parish and the governing authority of the municipality"; and WHEREAS, the BOCAGE CULTURAL DISTRICT is located entirely within the municipality of Baton Rouge and therefore the Metropolitan Council for the City of Baton Rouge and Parish of East Baton Rouge would be the proper entity to submit an application for the certification and designation of the above described geographic area as a Cultural District. NOW THEREFORE, be it resolved that the Metropolitan Council for the City of Baton Rouge and Parish of East Baton Rouge does hereby: 1. Support and endorse the submission of an application to the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, Office of Cultural Development to designate the BOCAGE CULTURAL DISTRICT as a state-certified Cultural District; and 2. Delegate its authority to submit said application and all supporting documents, reports, and other forms required for the creation, administration, and reporting to MARK MICHAEL BILETNIKOFF; and 3. Direct all city (or parish) employees to support and cooperate with efforts to compile all necessary information and data required for the application and all subsequent reporting necessary for the administration of the BOCAGE CULTURAL DISTRICT; and 4. Request all affected citizens and businesses to support and promote activities consistent with the purposes of the BOCAGE CULTURAL DISTRICT; and 5. Authorize the Mayor to sign any and all documents required for the creation and administration of the BOCAGE CULTURAL DISTRICT.

ADOPTED ON THIS _____ Day of ______, 2014.

______Name, Secretary and/or Chairman

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Cultural Districts February 27, 2014 Office of Cultural Development P.O. Box 44247 Baton Rouge, LA 70804

Dear Ms. Hamilton

It is exciting to have the opportunity to present the application for the establishment of a new State Cultural District. The mission of the Cultural District reiterates that the state of Louisiana cares about nurturing and protecting the arts and culture of the state and its artists. My 20 year mission to promote the arts, create a familial environment for artists to create and offer solace and support helps clarify my spirit. It is my intention to create an art hub for Baton Rouge that allows us to achieve national notoriety. I created N the art space in 2005 in a small 800 square foot Mid City Space. It has since grown to accommodate 40 artists in a three building 10,000 square foot complex, in the heart of Bocage. I have researched small town art initiatives such as Paducah, KY, Bradenton, FL and Oil City PA. These towns revitalized the arts in their own way utilizing the model from Paducah. Paducah is now a UNESCO site and still continues to garner national attention.. Baton Rouge has this same potential and power. I see this passion and commitment in the artists at N the art space studio complex. It is my intention to continue to grow this complex to fulfill the need for studio space, community galleries, and add more arts educational venues.

I believe in art and Baton Rouge. I know we can accomplish many goals in the future. The milestone of creating a cultural district in Bocage can only help fuel growth. I have the power, knowledge and commitment to do what is needed to help artists feel that they have a future here in Baton Rouge. Retaining talented artists will help ensure that we can and will succeed.

I appreciate having the opportunity to submit this application to create the Bocage Cultural District and look forward to managing its details, disseminating information to the district and complying with the states requirements.

Sincerely

Mark Biletnikoff, B.F.A., M.A. Director N the art space The Art Angel Project 7575 Jefferson Highway #4 Baton Rouge, LA 70806 225.324.8936 !

427 Laurel Street Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70806 Office: (225) 344-8558 Mobile: (225) 571-9497

! 27 February 2014 ! B o a r d o f D i r e c t o r s Gaye Hamilton Ralph J. Stephens Louisiana Cultural Districts Chairman Louisiana Division of the Arts ! PO. Box 44247 Brian Haymon Baton Rouge, LA 70804 Vice-Chairman ! ! Yolanda Dixon ! Secretary ! ! Michael Loveless Treasurer ! !Dear Gaye, Cheri M. Ausberry I am writing to offer my organization’s support for the Immediate Past-Chair ! establishment of a Cultural District in the Bocage area of Baton Emelie Alton Rouge, pursuant to Act 298 of the 2007 Regular Session of the Renee Areng legislature. The primary goal would be to increase community Jim Baronet revitalization based on cultural activity and related tax incentives. Mark Drennen ! Dede Ferrara The driving force behind this effort for Bocage is artist and arts Trey Godfrey administrator, Mark Biletnikoff. He is motivated to develop new Rei Heroman and diverse arts opportunities around an intended Cultural Rose Hudson District — including greater support for artists, cultural facilities, Scott Hensgens and small businesses that build our city’s creative industries. Michael Lang ! Ben Marmande Thank you for your consideration in this matter, and for all of your J. Dyke Nelson work to champion the arts and cultural development in our state. Munzer Qaddourah ! Randy Roussel With my warmest regards, Deborah Sternberg ! Nancy Stich ! Bret Talbot ! ! ! A d v i s o r y B o a r d ! ! Eric Holowacz Lee Michael Berg President & CEO John G. Davies Jay Dardenne, Jr. Mary Frey Eaton Dr. William L. Jenkins Willie C. Johnson Mary Terrell Joseph Charles A. Landry Charles W. Lamar, III Raymond G. “Skipper” Post, Jr. Mary Ann Sternberg Dr. Leon R. Tarver ! P r e s i d e n t a n d C E O Eric Vaughn Holowacz!

ANN CONNELLY FINE ART

Cultural Districts Office of Cultural Development PO. Box 44247 Baton Rouge, LA 70804

Dear Gaye,

As a representative of the Perkins Road Arts District, we continue to be grateful for the multiple benefits that have been associated with our cultural district status. Baton Rouge is gaining a lot of momentum in the overall cultural success of our state which we are thrilled to be a part of.

I am writing to show a vote of support for the creation of the Bocage Cultural District, led by artist and arts administrator, Mark Biletnikoff. My knowledge of Mark’s work in the community of the arts for over 12 years reinforces my promotion of this recent goal in adding another cultural district.

Mark has demonstrated continued resolve to the development in his professional artistic style. Beyond personal goals as an artist, he has worked with the same degree of commitment as an administrator for artists and the community development of the arts.

Thank you for your continued support for the arts and cultural development in the state. The effects of your team are improving the landscape for all of us and I personally thank you for your hard work.

Best regards,

I remain,

Ann Connelly

4221 Perkins Road Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70808 225.927.7676 www.annconnelly.com Martin’s Framing and Gallery

7727 Jefferson Hwy

Baton Rouge, La. 70809

225-925-1210

Ms. Gaye Hamilton February 27, 2014 Cultural District Program Manager Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism

Dear Ms. Hamilton:

I own a gallery and picture framing business in Bocage Village. This area has always supported the arts. A cultural district will help bring more focus, excitement and appreciation to our area and its residents and patrons.

This designation will be an excellent step forward for our artists and those who promote art.

Thank you for your interest in this matter.

Sincerely,

Pam Martin

Cultural Districts February 27, 2014 Office of Cultural Development P.O. Box 44247 Baton Rouge, LA 70804

Dear Gaye,

My name is Brittany Howard and I am a part owner of WHFA Gallery in the Bocage area. My partner Charles Williamson M.D. and I support creating a Cultural District for the Bocage area. I think it will increase support for the arts, community and business growth. I think Bocage is a perfect location to help bring the community together to se , experience, and celebrate the artist from both here in Baton Rouge and surrounding areas.

Thank you,

Brittany Howard Williamson Howard Fine Art 7865 Jefferson Hwy Baton Rouge, LA 70808 (225) 385-0900

February 26, 2014

Cultural District Program Manager Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism

Dear Ms. Hamilton,

I believe the Arts Districts around Baton Rouge have been instrumental in helping area artists get their work seen and purchased. My husband and I live in Bocage and are in support of creating a Cultural District for the Bocage area. I think it will increase support for the arts as well as stimulate business growth. Our area seems to have great places for people to congregate and this will simply enhance it. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Mabyn Shingleton 6906 Moniteau Court Baton Rouge, LA 70809 [email protected]

Cultural Districts February 28, 2014 Office of Cultural Development PO. Box 44247 Baton Rouge, LA 70804

Dear Gaye,

I am writing to show a vote of support for the creation of the Bocage Cultural District, led by artist and arts administrator, Mark Biletnikoff. My knowledge of Mark's work in the community of the arts for over 20 years reinforces my promotion of this recent goal in adding another cultural district. For the past four years that I have lived in Baton Rouge again I have seen Mark in action as an artist and as an administrator because I am an artist at the N Space. Beyond personal goals as an artist, he has worked with the same degree of commitment as an administrator for artists and the community development of the arts.

Thank you for your continued support for the arts and cultural development in the state.

Sheryl Southwick Artist at N Space

498 Baird Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70808

Cultural Districts Office of Cultural Development P.O. Box 44247 Baton Rouge, LA 70804

Dear Gaye,

As an artist who has a studio in N, the Art Space, I am writing to show a vote of support for the creation of the Bocage Cultural District, led by artist and arts administrator Mark Bilentikoff. During the almost four years I have rented a studio from Mark, he has demonstrated continued support for not only the artists in his studios, but for all the artists in our community. He is committed to the development of the arts in Baton Rouge, and the addition of another cultural district is a goal Mark has been working towards for a long time.

Thank you for your continued support for the arts and cultural development in our state.

Sincerely,

Eleanor C.Torres

Ms. Gaye Hamilton February 27, 2014 Cultural Districts Office of Cultural Development P.O. box 44247 Baton Rouge, LA 70804

Dear Gaye:

I am a local artist and currently lease a studio at "N the art space," where 35-40 artists reside. We are located on Jefferson Highway across from the entrance to Bocage subdivision. I am in support of any effort to form a Bocage Cultural District, which would be a big attraction for the arts community and could hopefully offer a tax free zone for sale of original art, as well as many other benefits. Thank you for your interest and the wonderful work you do for the cultural development of our community.

Sincerely,

Thomas Quaid, M.D.

February 27, 2014 Cultural Districts Office of Cultural Development PO. Box 44247 Baton Rouge, LA 70804

Dear Gaye,

There are many creative and very talented artists in our Bocage Community. I do believe in and support the formation of a Bocage Cultural District.

Sincerely, Judy Alonso Artist and Owner Love Light & Angels Creative Energy Jewelry 7809 Jefferson Hwy Baton Rouge, LA 70809 Jennifer Carwile Paintings 3908 Jefferson Hwy Ste. C1, BR LA 70809 www.JenniferCarwilePaintings.com

Gaye Hamilton Cultural District Program Manager Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism

February 27, 2014

Dear Ms. Hamilton

I am a professional artist at N the Art Space on Jefferson Highway in Bocage and I am in support of creating a Cultural District for the Bocage area. Our studio complex houses around 40 artists and has prompted the opening of two galleries nearby. With artists giving lessons, frequent art shows, and working studios we are creating an rich artistic community here and it would be nice to be recognized with the title of “Cultural District”. Also, it would be very helpful to the artists to be able to sell out of our studios at a tax-free rate. We hope that you will strongly consider our application.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Carwile

Ms. Gaye Hamilton February 27, 2014 Cultural Districts Office of Cultural Development P.O. Box 44247 Baton Rouge, LA 70804

Dear Gaye,

As a member of the group of working artists housed at “The N Space”, I am writing to show a vote of support for the creation of the Bocage Cultural District, led by artist and arts administrator, Mark Biletnikoff.

Mark is a professional artist. In addition to further developing his craft, Mark has worked with the same degree of commitment as an administrator for artists and the community development of the arts. I’ve recently had the good fortune to participate in the Art Angel Project, a project designed and promoted by Mark, in which the artistic team volunteered and supported art programs needing artistic assistance in Baldwin County and along the Gulf Coast. The project was inspirational, and Mark continues to inspire regarding his commitment to the creation of a new cultural district benefiting our area.

Thank you for your continued support for the arts and cultural development in the state, and for your consideration of the submitted application for the creation of the Bocage Cultural District.

Sincerely,

Kerry L. Kilpatrick

Gaye Hamilton February 26, 2014 Cultural District Program Manager Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism

Dear Gaye Hamilton,

I am the owner of Pink Pelican Art, a gallery/retail shop located in The Settlement near Bocage subdivision. We represent over 55 local artisans from the southeastern part of Louisiana. I am in support of creating a Cultural District for the Bocage area. I think it will increase support for the arts, community and business growth. The artists in many of the studios surrounding my shop contribute to my gallery with works being sold and also by the classes they teach, which are available to the public. The district will definitely promote increased area awareness and create a cultural focal point for our community residents.

Sincerely,

Robbin C. Richards Pink Pelican Art, LLC 7809 Jefferson Hwy., Ste. B2 Baton Rouge, LA 70809 225 330-3902

Ms. Gaye Hamilton February 27,2014 Cultural District Program Manager Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism

Dear Ms. Hamilton:

Please allow this note to serve as my support in creating a Cultural District for the Bocage area. I believe it will increase support of the arts community and business growth and will create a cultural focal point for the community residents. Respectfully yours,

Ben Taylor 7008 Woodstock Dr. Baton Rouge, LA 70809

February 27, 2014

Cultural Districts Office of Cultural Development PO. Box 44247 Baton Rouge, LA 70804

Attention: Gaye Hamilton

Dear Ms. Hamilton,

As an artist, I am grateful for the multiple benefits that have been associated with our cultural district status. Baton Rouge is gaining a lot of momentum in the overall cultural success of our state, of which we are thrilled to be a part.

I am writing to show a vote of support for the creation of the Bocage Cultural District, led by artist and arts administrator, Mark Biletnikoff. I have maintained an art studio at “N The Arts” for eighteen months and have personally experienced Mark’s vision to aid aspiring artists to develop their craft by offering affordable studio space and mentoring those who may have a need. My knowledge of Mark's work in the community of the arts for over 12 years reinforces my promotion of this recent goal in adding another cultural district.

Thank you for your continued support for the arts and cultural development in the state. The efforts of your team are improving the landscape for all of us and I personally thank you for your hard work.

Sincerely,

Rhonda Postlethwait Sweet On Silver (225) 975-3585