Bio
Beth Jackson Bates is a jack of all trades in the web world. In 1998, Beth founded Web Strategies, specializing in helping businesses connect with customers. She’s been in the web business for over 20 years. She helps her clients understand their business needs and how digital marketing strategies and tactics fulfill their goals.
From 2001 to 2006 she consulted with USA TODAY, where she supported the Education and Circulation departments with projects ranging from new websites to application development. During her time at USA TODAY, she was a three-time Jewell Award winner for business innovation. She also has over 20 years of experience working with associations and nonprofits.
Beth has a soft spot for animals and founded GoodDogz.org, Inc. in 2003 to help fill a void in the animal welfare community. GoodDogz.org is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to educating potential dog owners on dog selection and care and supporting the efforts of rescue groups. She has also served on the boards of the Winchester Main Street Foundation, the Old Town Winchester Business Association, and 1455 Literary Arts.
In 2016, Beth ran a successful political campaign that resulted in the election of John David Smith as Mayor of the City of Winchester, VA. In 2020, she ran Mayor Smith’s campaign for re-election which he also won.
She and her husband founded and organize the Hop Blossom Craft Beer Festival in Winchester, VA. Benefiting animal welfare organizations, this community event draws over 4,000 people to Old Town Winchester and has raised over $80K for puppies and kitties.
Beth and her family recently relocated to the island paradise of Key West, fulfilling a lifelong dream. She lives with her husband, Mark, and their dogs, Vivian and Belle. She is a craft beer aficionado, an avid gamer, and is always looking for the next fun and exciting project.
Unknown Facts
Would you rather battle 100 duck-sized horses or 1 horse-sized duck and why?
I’d rather fight a giant duck because I have freakish, spontaneous strength, but am not an endurance fighter. 100 tiny horses would, sadly, wear me down. Fun fact: I use my instantaneous, mega strength as the official “jar opener” in our house.
What’s your hidden talent?
I’m classically trained as a violinist and have played as a soloist and as part of an orchestra.
What is something that very few people know about you?
I auditioned for Annie when I was a kid.
If your life had a soundtrack, what songs would be on it?
The Imperial March (Darth Vader’s Theme), Queen’s “Don’t Stop Me Now”, Ministry’s “Everyday is Halloween” and the theme from The Benny Hill Show.
What’s your go-to comfort food?
Mashed potatoes and beer.
What is your death row meal?
Mashed potatoes and beer.
Of all the mysteries in the world, what is the one you’d like answered?
How do they travel so quickly from one place to another in Game of Thrones? It defies space and time.