Joplin Bow Tie Cause
By: Drew Moore
Updated: January 25, 2013
JOPLIN, MO.--- "There are those guys who think wearing a bow tie is not exactly what they want to do, but I think you gotta give this one a chance," says Jo Mueller, Director, Spiva Center For The Arts.
Some groups use mascots, ribbons, or wristbands, to bring awareness to their cause. The City of Joplin wants its own official bow tie, to help raise awareness and money for the area.
"We're going to be trying to rock bow ties for Joplin," says Mueller.
It's through a program called the "Bow Tie Cause," started by former NFL player D'hani Jones. For each tie sold, a portion of the proceeds go to the "Spiva Center for the Arts" and "Rebuild Joplin." The design will actually come from the public.
"They also write the story that goes along with the bow tie, why they designed it that way, we don't know what we're going to end up with," says Sharon Beshore Board Member, Spiva Center for the Arts.
There was no shortage of creative ideas on what the winning pattern should express.
"I would say unity, love, caring, and compassion. That about sums us up," says Beshore.
"A better hope for Joplin. It's kind of what it represents," says Mueller.
The bow ties will be made of hand woven silk, the finalists will be chosen this weekend, and they could be for sale by March of this year. Organizers say this is a creative way for people from around the world to stay classy, and keep thinking about Joplin.
"We definitely want to keep Joplin in the public eye," says Mueller.
If the last time you wore a bow tie was for prom or homecoming, you may need a refresher on how to tie it. Once the ties go on sale, Spiva will hold special classes to teach people how to tie them properly.
