December 2006

December 2006
GATLINBURG
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MISSION STATEMENT
Are you paying
On behalf of our membership, the Gatlinburg Chamber
of Commerce will promote, unify, inform, serve and
enhance the business community in a cohesive voice for
the advancement of the economic, environmental, and
social concerns of the community in order to make
Gatlinburg a better place to live, work, and visit.
too much
for your credit card
processing?
AA leader
leader in
in the
the retail
retail credit
credit card
card industry
industry is
is
offering
offering the
the following
following great
great benefits
benefits to
to Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg
Chamber
Chamber of
of Commerce
Commerce Members:
Members:
•• Competitive
Competitive Visa/MasterCard
Visa/MasterCard rates
rates
•• Electronic
Electronic processing
processing of
of all
all major
major credit
credit cards,
cards,
debit
debit cards
cards and
and checks
checks
•• Currently
Currently servicing
servicing over
over 3,000
3,000
merchants
merchants across
across East
East Tennessee
Tennessee
and
and Western
Western North
North Carolina
Carolina
•• 24-Hour
customer
24-Hour customer service
service w/all
w/all
service
service handled
handled locally
locally
FOR
FOR AA FREE
FREE COST
COST COMPARISON
COMPARISON CALL:
CALL:
North
North American
American Merchant
Merchant Services,
Services, Inc.
Inc.
190
190 Community
Community Center
Center Drive,
Drive, Suite
Suite 103
103
Pigeon
Pigeon Forge,
Forge, TN
TN 37863
37863
(865)
(865) 453-4612
453-4612 or
or (888)
(888) 256-6267
256-6267
North American Merchant Services, Inc. is a registered service provider
for US Bank, Minneapolis, MN and Bank of America, NA, Charlotte, NC.
NORTH AMERICAN MERCHANT SERVICES,INC.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Kevin Tierney – President
Dan Booth – Vice President
Chad Reagan – Treasurer
Vickie Blake – Secretary
Ryan DeSear – Sergeant At Arms
Candace Ogle - Past President
Term Expires 2007
Rick Joyce - Deborah Linnert
Chad Reagan - Kevin Tierney
Term Expires 2008
Vickie Blake - Dan Booth
Ryan DeSear
Term Expires 2009
David Dixon - Paula King
Tim King - Jerry Morton
Designated Directors
Robert Montgomery
Gatlinburg Attractions Association
David Duda
Gatlinburg Lodging and
Hospitality Association
Dan Tilley
Wedding Chapel Association
Dr. Ira Lapides
Retail Merchants Association
Theresa Tyler
Arts and Crafts Community
Sup. Dale Ditmanson
GSMNP Liaison
ADDRESS
811 East Parkway • P.O. Box 527
Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738
VISITOR INFORMATION
Toll Free: 800.237.4569
Web: www.gatlinburg.com
Local: 865.436.4178
Fax: 865.430.3876
CHAMBER STAFF
Vicki Simms, ext. 109
Executive Director
Email: [email protected]
Linda Leone, ext. 110
Finance and Administrative Director
Assistant Executive Director
Email: [email protected]
Connie Burns, ext. 113
Member Services Director
Email: [email protected]
Angela Carathers, ext. 102
Internet Communications Director
Email: [email protected]
Gretchen Ogle, ext. 103
Print Publications Director
Email: [email protected]
Sherry Holtzclaw, ext. 114
Member Services Assistant
Email: [email protected]
Gladys Griffin, ext. 106
Lead Area Consultant
Email: [email protected]
Libby Smith, ext. 140
Receptionist
Email: [email protected]
VIEW FROM THE TOP
by Candace Ogle
Outgoing President
This past year I
have had the privilege of serving as
president of the
Gatlinburg Chamber
of Commerce. It
has truly been an
honor to work with
the members of the
Board of Directors,
Executive Director, Vicki Simms and our
dedicated Chamber Staff. Thanks to all
of you for your hard work in achieving
the goals set forth at the beginning of the
year!
Through the efforts of the Board of
Directors, Vicki and Staff, 2006 has been
a very productive year. A few of our
many accomplishments include the
completion of the second phase of the
redesign of gatlinburg.com; downloadable
versions of the Vacation Guide and
videos have been added to the website,
and the online booking program has
been implemented jointly with the City’s
Department of Tourism. Gatlinburg.com
is a tremendous asset to our membership
and is a very valuable marketing tool.
Work on the site is continuous to keep
up with changing trends and to keep
visitors coming back throughout the year.
The Official Chamber In Room Guide
has been redesigned and produced in a
new Hard Cover Edition. The new piece
is absolutely outstanding! In conjunction
with Walter’s State Community College
an ongoing Hospitality Training Program
has been created and implemented, in
which two sessions have been held with
over 600 of your employees in atten-
dance. With direction from the
Board and Vicki’s tireless efforts,
joint regional meetings have been
facilitated and the Chamber has
played a key role in obtaining a
$100,000 Planning Grant for
Highway 321 through America’s
Scenic Byways. We have also
created a “Teacher Supply Depot”
that provides much needed supplies
to teachers at Pi Beta Phi and
Gatlinburg-Pittman High School.
As we kick off the Bicentennial
Celebration for our City, I know we
will all remember where we came
from and will build upon what our
ancestors started for us. They
established this beautiful City for us
to call home and began the creation
of this Crown Jewel of the Smokies.
Over the years, we have continued
to work hard to make Gatlinburg a
better place to live and work and I
know the 2007 Bicentennial year
will be another year of greatness for
our City.
Finally, as my responsibilities as
President come to an end I’d like to
thank the Board of Directors for
allowing me this wonder ful
experience and congratulate your
new President and Board of
Directors. I’m sure next year will
be as successful as this year has
been and I’m looking forward to all
that 2007 will bring! Wishes to
you all for a Merry Christmas and
Happy New Year!
HAVE A
MERRY
CHRISTMAS!
PRESORTED
STANDARD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Gatlinburg, TN
37738
Permit No. 35
Chamber’s Annual Banquet & Bicentennial Kick-Off a Success!
Gatlinburg a special place for youth!
Park Grill Hosts November
Business After Hours
Every once in a while we come across information which we want to share with you to better
your business. This time we have come across a talented young man who has a love for our
town that we felt compelled to share with you. The young man has written many award winning
essays and poems and is only 13 years old…this one is for us! Enjoy! There will be more
from this talented young man in the months to come.
The Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Meeting & Banquet was held Monday, November
27, 2006 at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. The event also marked the official kick-off of the city’s
Bicentennial Celebration which takes place throughout 2007.
This year’s event was a record breaker with over 500
in attendance. The evening began with a cocktail
reception held in W.L. Mills Conference Center
followed by dinner and an exciting bicentennial
program.
The Gatlinburg-Pittman Drama club re-enacted the
story of the life of Martha Jane Huskey Ogle describing her founding of White Oak Flats
which we now celebrate as Gatlinburg. Thank you to Mr. Jeff Ginn and his students for
their participation in this exciting event. The production was sponsored by Morrison
Communications and props, scripting and research were provided by the following: Sweet
Fanny Adams Theatre, Charles Williams, Gatlinburg Convention Center, and Foothills
Wholesale Furniture, Jeff Ginn, as well as Gene and Frances Shambaugh.
Tara Tyrell plays Martha Jane Huskey Ogle
Other highlights of the evening
included Gatlinburg Mayor Jerry Hays reading a Letter from the President of the United
States recognizing the bicentennial celebration; a Letter and Resolution from the
Governor of Tennessee presented by Dave
Jones, Tennessee Department of Tourist
Development; and the donation of Two Stuffed
Bears for display in Mills Auditorium by Smoky
Mountain Gift Show.
A delightful surprise during the event was a
tribute to artist Jim Gray for his 40th year of
business and his 75th Birthday which included
the
announcement of a year-long exhibition of
Gatlinburg Pittman Drama Club performs
his work in the Boardroom of the Convention
Martha Jane Ogle production
Center. As a part of that announcement each
guest received a pack of Jim Gray note cards
to take home and lucky winner, Dave Jones, received an original Jim Gray painting for having the
specially marked pack of cards.
Dave Jones reads letter from
Governor Phil Bredesen
The City of Gatlinburg revealed the Environmental Design and Review
Board Awards of Excellence in the following categories:
Sign Design Excellence:
·
Certificate Award – Presbyterian Child Care Center
·
Certificate Award - Mountain Rentals of Gatlinburg
·
Certificate Award - Mountain Laurel Chalets
·
Certificate Award - Pi Beta Phi Elementary
·
Plaque Award Crown Park
Building Addition/ Renovation Excellence:
·
Certificate Award - Mountain Laurel Chalets
·
Plaque Award The Ogle Building
Gatlinburg Pittman Drama Club performs
Martha Jane Ogle production
New Building Excellence:
·
Certificate Award - Crown Park Resort, Phase I
·
Plaque Award Lineberger’s Seafood Restaurant
Landscaping Excellence:
·
Plaque Award -
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
am an eagle towering over the Smokies
wonder how far I can travel in life
hear my ancestors call out to me when I have a bad mountain day
see the mountains that motivate me to explore and help other animals
want to gain respect by the wildlife around me
protect the animals with determination and confidence like the other eagles before myself
am an eagle towering over the Smokies
I
I
I
I
I
I
pretend that I am great protector of my woods
feel like I am in the best place on this Earth
worry the day when man takes over and the Smokies will be a distant memory
cry when I let one of my fellow animals down
perfect my skills of protecting the forest by observing nature and always asking questions
am an Eagle towering over the Smokies
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
understand that people expect me to fail in life but I know they are wrong
say that man and nature should be in harmony with one another
dream of being a good example for more eagles to come into the mountains
try to help everyone I can
hope that this beautiful place will remain forever
call out to my ancestors for help because I am not perfect
am an Eagle towering over the Smokies
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
yearn for wisdom when I am in a bad situation
seek out my fellow mountain animals and encourage them to do the impossible
sit on a boulder and watch my colony with care
play with the younger eagles and give them wisdom
fly gracefully over the mountains when I need to think about life
concentrate on my goal of being a great leader of these woods
keep my friends close to my heart at all times
am an eagle towering over the Smokies
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
ponder about the future of this God given place
debate the fact if there is actually a greater place on this Earth than right here
wish that I could help everyone at the same time
know that I can do the impossible
love my friends and I would go out of my way to make them proud of me
simulate the ways my ancestors lived life because I know that they were very wise in their teachings
look over my land with pride and love
Who am I?
I am a powerful and loving eagle towering over the Smoky Mountains
Crown Park Resort, Phase I
The Gatlinburg Garden Club presented an award to The Park Grill.
Mr. Steve Williams of Brochure Distribution Services presented the Gatlinburg Attractions
Association with the esteemed Best Brochure Award winner for the international
association of professional brochure distributers for Brochure design layout, content,
headline and overall message which was accepted by President Cam Caton.
Who I Am
Brandon Porter
Lakeland, Tennessee
13 years old
Cam Caton accepts the Best Brochure Award
for Gatlinburg Attractions Association
Thank you to Geoff Wolpert, Caroline
Polakowski and the staff of the Park Grill
for hosting such a fantastic Business After
Hours on Thursday, November 16, 2006.
The event was one of the most highly
attended Business After Hours this year
and our hosts served up a delicious
sampling of heavy hors d’ oeuvres and
desserts. There was also special piano
entertainment which added to the
atmosphere of the special evening. Don’t
forget to check out Park Grill when making
your holiday party arrangements
Thank you to our door prize sponsors
for the event: Park Grill, Peddler
Restaurant, Ober Gatlinburg, Flowers of
Gatlinburg, Gatlinburg Package Store,
Food City and Sam’s Club. Your
contributions were a very special added
bonus to those who attended.
There will be no Business After Hours
in December but look for information on
the events for the upcoming year very
soon.
Great Smoky Mountains
News Releases
Winterland Hotel Salvage Work to Begin
On November 1, a contractor will begin the process of salvaging the historic materials from the Wonderland Hotel in the Elkmont
area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The National Park Service (NPS) has awarded a $65,419 contract to Moran Construction of Abingdon, Virginia, to begin carefully
dismantling the collapsed wooden hotel and separating out the historically significant doors, windows, bathtubs and other artifacts for
permanent preservation. These items will be transported to the Park’s archival storage area located at the Department of Energy’s Office
of Scientificant and Technical Information Storage facility in Oak Ridge. The contractor is responsible for disposing of the remaining nonhistoric materials outside of the national park.
The contractor is required to dismantle the structure mostly by hand to avoid damage to the items to be salvaged. Under terms of the
contract, the contractor has until December 8 to complete the work.
In the interest of safety, the area around the hotel will be closed to public access while the work is in progress, but there will be no
impact on the campground, trails or any other public use areas in the Elkmont district.
The Wonderland Hotel collapsed in fall 2005. The only way to salvage the parts that are historic is to separate them from the rest of
the failed structure. The NPS is still working on a Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to develop a plan for the future management
of the over 70 other buildings in the Elkmont district. Park Officials expect to publish the final EIS by March 2007.
Smokies Winter Schedule
Great Smoky Mountains National Park has announced its winter facility closings, including 7 of the 10 developed campgrounds, and
schedule of future closings for other facilities, as well as reduced operational hours for visitor services.
VISITOR CENTERS
The Sugarlands Visitor Center, 2 miles south of Gatlinburg, Tenn., is open daily from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. The Oconaluftee Visitor Center,
2 miles north of Cherokee, N.C., will serve visitors from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The Cades Cove Visitor Center located half way around the
Cades Cove Loop Road is opened daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
ROADS
Several of the secondary roads will close as indicated: Rich Mountain Road on November 10, Straight Fork Road on November 13,
and Clingmans Dome Road and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail on December 1. Roundbottom and Balsam Mountain/Heintooga Roads
are closed and Parson Branch Road is closed due to storm impacts.
During the winter months, the two main roads, Newfound Gap (U.S. 441) and Little River, will remain open throughout the year,
except for temporary closures for extreme winter weather conditions.
The Gatlinburg Bypass, Cades Cove Loop Road, Cosby Road, Greenbrier Road, Upper Tremont, Little Greenbrier, Forge Creek,
Lakeview Drive, and Foothills Parkway (East and West) will open and close as road conditions mandate.
LODGING
LeConte Lodge will accommodate guests through November 21 and close on November 22.
CAMPING
Two of the three major campgrounds will remain open all year. These year-round campgrounds are Cades Cove in Tennessee and
Smokemont in North Carolina. They are on a self-registration basis with a reduced number of available sites. Elkmont Campground in
Tennessee will remain open through the Thanksgiving weekend and will close on December 1.
The other seven self-registrations campgrounds are closed for the season.
CADES COVE CAMPGROUND STORE AND BIKE RENTAL
Cades Cove Campground Store will close on November 6 except for the vending machines, which will remain in service throughout
the winter.
PICNICKING
Seven picnic areas will remain open through the winter: Chimney Tops, Cades Cove, Cosby, Greenbrier, Metcalf Bottoms, Big Creek,
and Deep Creek.
STABLES
The Smokemont Riding Stable is closed. The Cades Cove Riding Stables is scheduled to be closed on November 6. Sugarlands
Horseback Riding Stables and the Smoky Mountain Riding Stables will remain open through November 27, weather permitting.
HORSE CAMPS
All five horse camps—Round Bottom, Tow String, Cataloochee, Big Creek, and Anthony Creek—are scheduled to be closed on
November 13.
GENERAL INFORMATION
For information on current road closures call (865) 436-1200. Trip planning information is also available on the Internet at
www.nps.gov/grsm.
In addition, visitors planning to hike, backpack, or horseback ride should visit the Park’s website to view an updated listing of either
“closed” or “use not recommended” of trails impacted by an October windstorm by selecting “Closures of Roads, Trails, and Facilities”
under Quicklinks.
Outgoing President of the Chamber, Candace Ogle announced Ms. Sherri Webb was the 2006 Ambassador of the Year and also presented
pledges in the amount of $26,325 to the Library Building Committee which
was pledged by the following Members and Individuals:
·
Affordable Smoky Mountain Weddings, Mr. Rob Bremer
·
Faye and Glen Cardwell
·
Coldwell Banker, Mr. Ted Mullikin
·
Diamond Mountain Rentals, Ms. Terra Wolff
·
Gatlinburlier, Dr. Ira and Jan Lapides
·
Glassblowers of Gatlinburg, Bob and Jo Myrick
·
Susan Greengold
·
Hand Leather, Jottie and Marie Hand
·
Holiday Inn, Mr. David Duda
·
Jackson Mountain Homes, Michael Anderson, A.J. Bland
·
Mr. Tablecloth, Mr. George Martin
·
Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen, Ms. Esther Dych
·
Pancake Pantry, Mr. Jim Gerding
·
Pepper Palace, Mr. Craig Migawa
Sue Bock accepts the Chamber Library
Fundraiser Drive check
·
Shirley’s Texaco, Mr. George Dunn
·
Shoney’s
·
Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre, Pat and Don MacPherson
·
Trotter and Associates, Tommie Trotter
·
Village Partner, Mr. Ron Byars
·
Deborah Linnert
Ms. Simms vowed that the Fund Raising efforts for the Library would continue throughout
the upcoming Bicentennial year allowing for more participation from the membership.
Cnadace Ogle presents the Volunteer of the
Year Award to Joe Waggoner
The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the recipients of this year’s Zeno
Wall, Jr. Tourism Award and William C. Stevens Volunteer Spirit Award. Being honored
with the William C.
Stevens Volunteer Spirit
Award for his tireless
dedication to the promotion of tourism, the
chamber and Gatlinburg
was Mr. Joe Waggoner of
Christus Gardens.
Receiving the highly
coveted Zeno Wall, Jr. Tourism Award for her tremendous devotion and efforts
over the years to preserve the true spirit of Gatlinburg and her desire to keep
Gatlinburg a beautiful mountain destination for visitors to enjoy was Mrs. Wilma
Maples. It is an honor for the Chamber of Commerce to pay tribute to such
deserving individuals.
Mr. Jim Hart presents the Zeno Wall Jr.
Tourism Award toMs. Wilma Maples
Outgoing directors Candace Ogle, Vickie King, Steve McKinney, Jeff
Schoenfield, and Wedding Chapel Representative David Faulkner were bid a fond farewell and presented with service awards. Outgoing
Chamber President, Candace Ogle was presented a wonderful crystal award created by Crystalix for her year of exceptional service and
dedication to this organization and the membership.
New Board of Directors Left to Right: Tim King,
Paula King, David Dixon and Jerry Morton
The announcement of the newly elected
chamber Directors took place at the end of
the evening and those elected to serve the
membership for a 3-year term were David
Dixon, Gatlinburg Real Estate and Rentals;
Paula King, Citizens National Bank; Tim
King, Infofast Mailing Service; and Jerry
Morton, Best Western Crossroads Motel.
Outgoing President Candace Ogle
recognized for her Chamber service
We would like to take this opportunity to thank our Banquet Event Sponsors
Table Gifts
Mountain National Bank
Ripley Entertainment
Jim Gray Galleries
Program Printing
Citizens National Bank
Daisy Nosegay and Cigars
Tennessee State Bank
Memory Photo Mats
BB&T
Video Presentation
Infofast Mailing Services
Video Production
Courtesy of Lorelei Productions
Event Photographer
Larry Miller Photography
Martha Jane Huskey Ogle Play
Morrison Communications
Reception Music
Gatlinburg Department of Tourism
After Dinner Music
Entertainment Services of Gatlinburg
Ryan and Suzanne DeSear
Rick and Mara Joyce
Heritage Rentals and Vickie King
Dr. Ira and Jan Lapides
Candace Ogle
Kevin and Lori Tierney
The Moonshine Boys perform during the
Banquet Reception
Thanks so much to our Door Prize Sponsors
About You Salon
Alamo Steakhouse
Alewine Pottery
Atrium Restaurant
Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que
Buie Pottery
Calhoun’s
Cherokee Grill
Citgo Stop N’ Save
Coffee Loft
Damon’s Grill
Dixie Stampede
Dollywood
Eight Gables Inn
Fannie Farkle’s
Flowers of Gatlinburg
Food City
Gabriel’s Horn
Green brier Restaurant
Hard Rock Café
Healthy Air & Water
Jim Gray Gallery
Larry Miller Photography
Lorelei Candles
Me & JP’s Jewelry and Crafts
Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort
Old Mill Square Pigeon River Pottery
Old Mill Square Pottery House Café
Pancake Pantry
Sheer Envy Hair and Nail Salon
Shoney’s Restaurant
Stokely Hospitality
Tennessee State Bank
As always we want to thank our Membership for attending and support of this annual event!
Great Smoky Mountains
News Releases
Winterland Hotel Salvage Work to Begin
On November 1, a contractor will begin the process of salvaging the historic materials from the Wonderland Hotel in the Elkmont
area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The National Park Service (NPS) has awarded a $65,419 contract to Moran Construction of Abingdon, Virginia, to begin carefully
dismantling the collapsed wooden hotel and separating out the historically significant doors, windows, bathtubs and other artifacts for
permanent preservation. These items will be transported to the Park’s archival storage area located at the Department of Energy’s Office
of Scientificant and Technical Information Storage facility in Oak Ridge. The contractor is responsible for disposing of the remaining nonhistoric materials outside of the national park.
The contractor is required to dismantle the structure mostly by hand to avoid damage to the items to be salvaged. Under terms of the
contract, the contractor has until December 8 to complete the work.
In the interest of safety, the area around the hotel will be closed to public access while the work is in progress, but there will be no
impact on the campground, trails or any other public use areas in the Elkmont district.
The Wonderland Hotel collapsed in fall 2005. The only way to salvage the parts that are historic is to separate them from the rest of
the failed structure. The NPS is still working on a Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to develop a plan for the future management
of the over 70 other buildings in the Elkmont district. Park Officials expect to publish the final EIS by March 2007.
Smokies Winter Schedule
Great Smoky Mountains National Park has announced its winter facility closings, including 7 of the 10 developed campgrounds, and
schedule of future closings for other facilities, as well as reduced operational hours for visitor services.
VISITOR CENTERS
The Sugarlands Visitor Center, 2 miles south of Gatlinburg, Tenn., is open daily from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. The Oconaluftee Visitor Center,
2 miles north of Cherokee, N.C., will serve visitors from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The Cades Cove Visitor Center located half way around the
Cades Cove Loop Road is opened daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
ROADS
Several of the secondary roads will close as indicated: Rich Mountain Road on November 10, Straight Fork Road on November 13,
and Clingmans Dome Road and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail on December 1. Roundbottom and Balsam Mountain/Heintooga Roads
are closed and Parson Branch Road is closed due to storm impacts.
During the winter months, the two main roads, Newfound Gap (U.S. 441) and Little River, will remain open throughout the year,
except for temporary closures for extreme winter weather conditions.
The Gatlinburg Bypass, Cades Cove Loop Road, Cosby Road, Greenbrier Road, Upper Tremont, Little Greenbrier, Forge Creek,
Lakeview Drive, and Foothills Parkway (East and West) will open and close as road conditions mandate.
LODGING
LeConte Lodge will accommodate guests through November 21 and close on November 22.
CAMPING
Two of the three major campgrounds will remain open all year. These year-round campgrounds are Cades Cove in Tennessee and
Smokemont in North Carolina. They are on a self-registration basis with a reduced number of available sites. Elkmont Campground in
Tennessee will remain open through the Thanksgiving weekend and will close on December 1.
The other seven self-registrations campgrounds are closed for the season.
CADES COVE CAMPGROUND STORE AND BIKE RENTAL
Cades Cove Campground Store will close on November 6 except for the vending machines, which will remain in service throughout
the winter.
PICNICKING
Seven picnic areas will remain open through the winter: Chimney Tops, Cades Cove, Cosby, Greenbrier, Metcalf Bottoms, Big Creek,
and Deep Creek.
STABLES
The Smokemont Riding Stable is closed. The Cades Cove Riding Stables is scheduled to be closed on November 6. Sugarlands
Horseback Riding Stables and the Smoky Mountain Riding Stables will remain open through November 27, weather permitting.
HORSE CAMPS
All five horse camps—Round Bottom, Tow String, Cataloochee, Big Creek, and Anthony Creek—are scheduled to be closed on
November 13.
GENERAL INFORMATION
For information on current road closures call (865) 436-1200. Trip planning information is also available on the Internet at
www.nps.gov/grsm.
In addition, visitors planning to hike, backpack, or horseback ride should visit the Park’s website to view an updated listing of either
“closed” or “use not recommended” of trails impacted by an October windstorm by selecting “Closures of Roads, Trails, and Facilities”
under Quicklinks.
Outgoing President of the Chamber, Candace Ogle announced Ms. Sherri Webb was the 2006 Ambassador of the Year and also presented
pledges in the amount of $26,325 to the Library Building Committee which
was pledged by the following Members and Individuals:
·
Affordable Smoky Mountain Weddings, Mr. Rob Bremer
·
Faye and Glen Cardwell
·
Coldwell Banker, Mr. Ted Mullikin
·
Diamond Mountain Rentals, Ms. Terra Wolff
·
Gatlinburlier, Dr. Ira and Jan Lapides
·
Glassblowers of Gatlinburg, Bob and Jo Myrick
·
Susan Greengold
·
Hand Leather, Jottie and Marie Hand
·
Holiday Inn, Mr. David Duda
·
Jackson Mountain Homes, Michael Anderson, A.J. Bland
·
Mr. Tablecloth, Mr. George Martin
·
Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen, Ms. Esther Dych
·
Pancake Pantry, Mr. Jim Gerding
·
Pepper Palace, Mr. Craig Migawa
Sue Bock accepts the Chamber Library
Fundraiser Drive check
·
Shirley’s Texaco, Mr. George Dunn
·
Shoney’s
·
Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre, Pat and Don MacPherson
·
Trotter and Associates, Tommie Trotter
·
Village Partner, Mr. Ron Byars
·
Deborah Linnert
Ms. Simms vowed that the Fund Raising efforts for the Library would continue throughout
the upcoming Bicentennial year allowing for more participation from the membership.
Cnadace Ogle presents the Volunteer of the
Year Award to Joe Waggoner
The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the recipients of this year’s Zeno
Wall, Jr. Tourism Award and William C. Stevens Volunteer Spirit Award. Being honored
with the William C.
Stevens Volunteer Spirit
Award for his tireless
dedication to the promotion of tourism, the
chamber and Gatlinburg
was Mr. Joe Waggoner of
Christus Gardens.
Receiving the highly
coveted Zeno Wall, Jr. Tourism Award for her tremendous devotion and efforts
over the years to preserve the true spirit of Gatlinburg and her desire to keep
Gatlinburg a beautiful mountain destination for visitors to enjoy was Mrs. Wilma
Maples. It is an honor for the Chamber of Commerce to pay tribute to such
deserving individuals.
Mr. Jim Hart presents the Zeno Wall Jr.
Tourism Award toMs. Wilma Maples
Outgoing directors Candace Ogle, Vickie King, Steve McKinney, Jeff
Schoenfield, and Wedding Chapel Representative David Faulkner were bid a fond farewell and presented with service awards. Outgoing
Chamber President, Candace Ogle was presented a wonderful crystal award created by Crystalix for her year of exceptional service and
dedication to this organization and the membership.
New Board of Directors Left to Right: Tim King,
Paula King, David Dixon and Jerry Morton
The announcement of the newly elected
chamber Directors took place at the end of
the evening and those elected to serve the
membership for a 3-year term were David
Dixon, Gatlinburg Real Estate and Rentals;
Paula King, Citizens National Bank; Tim
King, Infofast Mailing Service; and Jerry
Morton, Best Western Crossroads Motel.
Outgoing President Candace Ogle
recognized for her Chamber service
Chamber’s Annual Banquet & Bicentennial Kick-Off a Success!
Gatlinburg a special place for youth!
Park Grill Hosts November
Business After Hours
Every once in a while we come across information which we want to share with you to better
your business. This time we have come across a talented young man who has a love for our
town that we felt compelled to share with you. The young man has written many award winning
essays and poems and is only 13 years old…this one is for us! Enjoy! There will be more
from this talented young man in the months to come.
The Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Meeting & Banquet was held Monday, November
27, 2006 at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. The event also marked the official kick-off of the city’s
Bicentennial Celebration which takes place throughout 2007.
This year’s event was a record breaker with over 500
in attendance. The evening began with a cocktail
reception held in W.L. Mills Conference Center
followed by dinner and an exciting bicentennial
program.
The Gatlinburg-Pittman Drama club re-enacted the
story of the life of Martha Jane Huskey Ogle describing her founding of White Oak Flats
which we now celebrate as Gatlinburg. Thank you to Mr. Jeff Ginn and his students for
their participation in this exciting event. The production was sponsored by Morrison
Communications and props, scripting and research were provided by the following: Sweet
Fanny Adams Theatre, Charles Williams, Gatlinburg Convention Center, and Foothills
Wholesale Furniture, Jeff Ginn, as well as Gene and Frances Shambaugh.
Tara Tyrell plays Martha Jane Huskey Ogle
Other highlights of the evening
included Gatlinburg Mayor Jerry Hays reading a Letter from the President of the United
States recognizing the bicentennial celebration; a Letter and Resolution from the
Governor of Tennessee presented by Dave
Jones, Tennessee Department of Tourist
Development; and the donation of Two Stuffed
Bears for display in Mills Auditorium by Smoky
Mountain Gift Show.
A delightful surprise during the event was a
tribute to artist Jim Gray for his 40th year of
business and his 75th Birthday which included
the
announcement of a year-long exhibition of
Gatlinburg Pittman Drama Club performs
his work in the Boardroom of the Convention
Martha Jane Ogle production
Center. As a part of that announcement each
guest received a pack of Jim Gray note cards
to take home and lucky winner, Dave Jones, received an original Jim Gray painting for having the
specially marked pack of cards.
Dave Jones reads letter from
Governor Phil Bredesen
The City of Gatlinburg revealed the Environmental Design and Review
Board Awards of Excellence in the following categories:
Sign Design Excellence:
·
Certificate Award – Presbyterian Child Care Center
·
Certificate Award - Mountain Rentals of Gatlinburg
·
Certificate Award - Mountain Laurel Chalets
·
Certificate Award - Pi Beta Phi Elementary
·
Plaque Award Crown Park
Building Addition/ Renovation Excellence:
·
Certificate Award - Mountain Laurel Chalets
·
Plaque Award The Ogle Building
Gatlinburg Pittman Drama Club performs
Martha Jane Ogle production
New Building Excellence:
·
Certificate Award - Crown Park Resort, Phase I
·
Plaque Award Lineberger’s Seafood Restaurant
Landscaping Excellence:
·
Plaque Award -
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
am an eagle towering over the Smokies
wonder how far I can travel in life
hear my ancestors call out to me when I have a bad mountain day
see the mountains that motivate me to explore and help other animals
want to gain respect by the wildlife around me
protect the animals with determination and confidence like the other eagles before myself
am an eagle towering over the Smokies
I
I
I
I
I
I
pretend that I am great protector of my woods
feel like I am in the best place on this Earth
worry the day when man takes over and the Smokies will be a distant memory
cry when I let one of my fellow animals down
perfect my skills of protecting the forest by observing nature and always asking questions
am an Eagle towering over the Smokies
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
understand that people expect me to fail in life but I know they are wrong
say that man and nature should be in harmony with one another
dream of being a good example for more eagles to come into the mountains
try to help everyone I can
hope that this beautiful place will remain forever
call out to my ancestors for help because I am not perfect
am an Eagle towering over the Smokies
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
yearn for wisdom when I am in a bad situation
seek out my fellow mountain animals and encourage them to do the impossible
sit on a boulder and watch my colony with care
play with the younger eagles and give them wisdom
fly gracefully over the mountains when I need to think about life
concentrate on my goal of being a great leader of these woods
keep my friends close to my heart at all times
am an eagle towering over the Smokies
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
ponder about the future of this God given place
debate the fact if there is actually a greater place on this Earth than right here
wish that I could help everyone at the same time
know that I can do the impossible
love my friends and I would go out of my way to make them proud of me
simulate the ways my ancestors lived life because I know that they were very wise in their teachings
look over my land with pride and love
Who am I?
I am a powerful and loving eagle towering over the Smoky Mountains
Crown Park Resort, Phase I
The Gatlinburg Garden Club presented an award to The Park Grill.
Mr. Steve Williams of Brochure Distribution Services presented the Gatlinburg Attractions
Association with the esteemed Best Brochure Award winner for the international
association of professional brochure distributers for Brochure design layout, content,
headline and overall message which was accepted by President Cam Caton.
Who I Am
Brandon Porter
Lakeland, Tennessee
13 years old
Cam Caton accepts the Best Brochure Award
for Gatlinburg Attractions Association
Thank you to Geoff Wolpert, Caroline
Polakowski and the staff of the Park Grill
for hosting such a fantastic Business After
Hours on Thursday, November 16, 2006.
The event was one of the most highly
attended Business After Hours this year
and our hosts served up a delicious
sampling of heavy hors d’ oeuvres and
desserts. There was also special piano
entertainment which added to the
atmosphere of the special evening. Don’t
forget to check out Park Grill when making
your holiday party arrangements
Thank you to our door prize sponsors
for the event: Park Grill, Peddler
Restaurant, Ober Gatlinburg, Flowers of
Gatlinburg, Gatlinburg Package Store,
Food City and Sam’s Club. Your
contributions were a very special added
bonus to those who attended.
There will be no Business After Hours
in December but look for information on
the events for the upcoming year very
soon.
Quick Facts
October 2006
2006
Phone Request .......................................................... 1,689
Web Request ............................................................. 7,876
Regular Mail Request .................................................... 16
Total Vacation Guide Request .................................. 9,581
2005
2,127
7,465
20
9,612
% of Change
-20.6
5.5
-20.0
-0.3
INCOMING CALLS
October 2006
2006
Local/Long Distance Incoming Calls ....................... 2,319
800 Incoming Calls .................................................. 8,329
Total Incoming Calls .............................................. 10,648
2005
3,312
8,331
11,643
% of Change
-30.0
0.0
-8.5
YEAR TO DATE
October 2006
2006
Phone Request ........................................................ 27,030
Web Request ......................................................... 154,719
Regular Mail Request .................................................. 213
Total Vacation Guide Request .............................. 181,962
2005
37,430
112,951
322
150,703
% of Change
-27.8
37.0
-33.9
20.7
YEAR TO DATE
October 2006
2006
Local/Long Distance Incoming Calls ..................... 21,504
800 Incoming Calls ................................................ 67,640
Total Incoming Calls ............................................ 89,144
INTERNET VISITORS
October 2006
Internet Visitors .............................................
YTD ...............................................................
Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce
Ethics Committee Report
Complaints for YTD
November 2006
Hotel/Motel ...................................... 40
Overnight Rentals .............................. 66
Bed & Breakfast/Inns/Lodges .............. 0
Timeshares ........................................ 10
Attractions .......................................... 9
Shops ................................................. 5
Dining & Entertainment ....................... 5
Services .............................................. 2
Campgrounds ...................................... 0
Wedding Chapels ................................. 7
Upcoming Events
December 2006
2005
30,571
81,753
112,324
% of Change
-29.7
-17.3
-20.6
2006
2005
% of Change
305,303
2,701,131
233,424
2,270,211
30.8
19.0
December 1 - 30
Gatlinburg Winterfest Trolley Rides
Ripley's Aquarium Trolley Station
December 1 - 30
Old Fashioned Hayrides
Traffice light #6 at Mountain Mall
Chamber Membership Directory
Production Begins Soon!
You will receive a mailout from us during December with
information on the Chamber’s 2007 Membership Directory.
This easy to use booklet will contain an alphabetical listing of
all Members including Business Partners, Ambassadors and
Directors, plus the opportunity for economical advertising to
assist in promoting your services to other chamber members
allowing you to gain new customers and business associates
throughout the upcoming year! Each business will have a
listing which features a contact person, mailing or location
address, phone, fax, and optional email address.
Our goal is to have the Membership Directory finished and hot off the presses during
the first quarter 2007. So please help us to meet this goal by completing and returning
your forms to us as quickly as possible – if we do not receive your updated information
by the deadline of January 15, 2007 we will utilize the information which is currently on
file with our office. For advertising information or if you have any questions at all please
contact Connie Burns or Sherry Holtzclaw at 436.4178.
CITY OF GATLINBURG GROSS REVENUES (Rounded to the nearest/in 000)
September 2006
2006
2005
% of Change
Lodging ................................................................... 12,877
12,094
6.5
Restaurants ............................................................... 8,077
7,233
11.7
Amusements/Attractions ........................................... 2,493
2,325
7.3
Gross Receipts - Other ............................................ 15,330
14,568
5.2
Total ........................................................................ 38,778
36,220
7.1
YEAR TO DATE
2006
Lodging ................................................................. 107,410
Restaurants ............................................................. 70,335
Amusements/Attractions ......................................... 33,649
Gross Receipts-Other ............................................ 131,029
Total ...................................................................... 342,423
2005
103,116
66,927
33,288
120,031
323,362
% of Change
4.2
5.1
1.1
9.2
5.9
BUSINESS BY TYPES
September 2006
2006
Hotel with restaurant ................................................ 2,534
Over 50 rooms no restaurant .................................... 5,110
1 to 50 rooms single location ...................................... 657
Chalets, Condos, etc. ............................................... .4,505
Campgrounds ................................................................. 72
Fast Foods/Deli ......................................................... 1,000
Family/Steak House Type ......................................... 6,145
Sweets/Snack Shops .................................................... 932
Retail Sales ............................................................... 7,878
Service Business ....................................................... 2,093
Amusement/Attractions ............................................ 2,493
Groceries/Markets .................................................... 2,952
All Others ................................................................. 2,406
2005
2,499
4,476
771
4,289
58
882
5,558
794
7,258
2,159
2,325
2,768
2,383
% of Change
1.4
14.2
-14.9
5.0
23.3
13.4
10.6
17.5
8.6
-3.0
7.3
6.7
1.0
WATER USAGE ..........................................
2005
% of Change
2006
*Water usage is measured between the 18th of the month prior to the 17th of the month noted in report.
October 2006 ................................................
YTD ................................................................
65,114
606,501
NATIONAL PARK VISITORS (Gatlinburg Entrance)
2006
October 2006 ................................................
436,132
YTD ............................................................... 2,954,199
59,940
590,633
8.6
2.7
2005 % of Change
397,415
9.7
2,942,431
0.4
December 16
Arrowmont Holiday Open House
Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts
December 26
Boxing Day
Fox & Parrot Tavern
December 31
18th Annual Gatlinburg's New Year's
Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks Show
Traffic light # 8
December 31
Blaine's New Year's Eve Party
Blaine's Grill & Bar
"Dance with the Sharks"
Ripley's Aquarium
Mark Your Calendar
December 2006
Gateway Foundation Holiday Gala
Cancelled
Chamber Open House
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce
No Thanks! Program
Stickers and Posters
Available
Remember “NO THANKS, I’ve
already been asked” stickers are available
at the Chamber office. In addition to the
stickers that you can give to your guests/
customers the Chamber now has a poster
that you can either display in your window
or on your front desk. For more
infor mation call Connie or Sherry at
436.4178.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank our Banquet Event Sponsors
Table Gifts
Mountain National Bank
Ripley Entertainment
Jim Gray Galleries
Program Printing
Citizens National Bank
Daisy Nosegay and Cigars
Tennessee State Bank
Memory Photo Mats
BB&T
Video Presentation
Infofast Mailing Services
Video Production
Courtesy of Lorelei Productions
Event Photographer
Larry Miller Photography
Martha Jane Huskey Ogle Play
Morrison Communications
Reception Music
Gatlinburg Department of Tourism
After Dinner Music
Entertainment Services of Gatlinburg
Ryan and Suzanne DeSear
Rick and Mara Joyce
Heritage Rentals and Vickie King
Dr. Ira and Jan Lapides
Candace Ogle
Kevin and Lori Tierney
The Moonshine Boys perform during the
Banquet Reception
Thanks so much to our Door Prize Sponsors
About You Salon
Alamo Steakhouse
Alewine Pottery
Atrium Restaurant
Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que
Buie Pottery
Calhoun’s
Cherokee Grill
Citgo Stop N’ Save
Coffee Loft
Damon’s Grill
Dixie Stampede
Dollywood
Eight Gables Inn
Fannie Farkle’s
Flowers of Gatlinburg
Food City
Gabriel’s Horn
Green brier Restaurant
Hard Rock Café
Healthy Air & Water
Jim Gray Gallery
Larry Miller Photography
Lorelei Candles
Me & JP’s Jewelry and Crafts
Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort
Old Mill Square Pigeon River Pottery
Old Mill Square Pottery House Café
Pancake Pantry
Sheer Envy Hair and Nail Salon
Shoney’s Restaurant
Stokely Hospitality
Tennessee State Bank
As always we want to thank our Membership for attending and support of this annual event!
Quick Facts
October 2006
2006
Phone Request .......................................................... 1,689
Web Request ............................................................. 7,876
Regular Mail Request .................................................... 16
Total Vacation Guide Request .................................. 9,581
2005
2,127
7,465
20
9,612
% of Change
-20.6
5.5
-20.0
-0.3
INCOMING CALLS
October 2006
2006
Local/Long Distance Incoming Calls ....................... 2,319
800 Incoming Calls .................................................. 8,329
Total Incoming Calls .............................................. 10,648
2005
3,312
8,331
11,643
% of Change
-30.0
0.0
-8.5
YEAR TO DATE
October 2006
2006
Phone Request ........................................................ 27,030
Web Request ......................................................... 154,719
Regular Mail Request .................................................. 213
Total Vacation Guide Request .............................. 181,962
2005
37,430
112,951
322
150,703
% of Change
-27.8
37.0
-33.9
20.7
YEAR TO DATE
October 2006
2006
Local/Long Distance Incoming Calls ..................... 21,504
800 Incoming Calls ................................................ 67,640
Total Incoming Calls ............................................ 89,144
INTERNET VISITORS
October 2006
Internet Visitors .............................................
YTD ...............................................................
Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce
Ethics Committee Report
Complaints for YTD
November 2006
Hotel/Motel ...................................... 40
Overnight Rentals .............................. 66
Bed & Breakfast/Inns/Lodges .............. 0
Timeshares ........................................ 10
Attractions .......................................... 9
Shops ................................................. 5
Dining & Entertainment ....................... 5
Services .............................................. 2
Campgrounds ...................................... 0
Wedding Chapels ................................. 7
Upcoming Events
December 2006
2005
30,571
81,753
112,324
% of Change
-29.7
-17.3
-20.6
2006
2005
% of Change
305,303
2,701,131
233,424
2,270,211
30.8
19.0
December 1 - 30
Gatlinburg Winterfest Trolley Rides
Ripley's Aquarium Trolley Station
December 1 - 30
Old Fashioned Hayrides
Traffice light #6 at Mountain Mall
Chamber Membership Directory
Production Begins Soon!
You will receive a mailout from us during December with
information on the Chamber’s 2007 Membership Directory.
This easy to use booklet will contain an alphabetical listing of
all Members including Business Partners, Ambassadors and
Directors, plus the opportunity for economical advertising to
assist in promoting your services to other chamber members
allowing you to gain new customers and business associates
throughout the upcoming year! Each business will have a
listing which features a contact person, mailing or location
address, phone, fax, and optional email address.
Our goal is to have the Membership Directory finished and hot off the presses during
the first quarter 2007. So please help us to meet this goal by completing and returning
your forms to us as quickly as possible – if we do not receive your updated information
by the deadline of January 15, 2007 we will utilize the information which is currently on
file with our office. For advertising information or if you have any questions at all please
contact Connie Burns or Sherry Holtzclaw at 436.4178.
CITY OF GATLINBURG GROSS REVENUES (Rounded to the nearest/in 000)
September 2006
2006
2005
% of Change
Lodging ................................................................... 12,877
12,094
6.5
Restaurants ............................................................... 8,077
7,233
11.7
Amusements/Attractions ........................................... 2,493
2,325
7.3
Gross Receipts - Other ............................................ 15,330
14,568
5.2
Total ........................................................................ 38,778
36,220
7.1
YEAR TO DATE
2006
Lodging ................................................................. 107,410
Restaurants ............................................................. 70,335
Amusements/Attractions ......................................... 33,649
Gross Receipts-Other ............................................ 131,029
Total ...................................................................... 342,423
2005
103,116
66,927
33,288
120,031
323,362
% of Change
4.2
5.1
1.1
9.2
5.9
BUSINESS BY TYPES
September 2006
2006
Hotel with restaurant ................................................ 2,534
Over 50 rooms no restaurant .................................... 5,110
1 to 50 rooms single location ...................................... 657
Chalets, Condos, etc. ............................................... .4,505
Campgrounds ................................................................. 72
Fast Foods/Deli ......................................................... 1,000
Family/Steak House Type ......................................... 6,145
Sweets/Snack Shops .................................................... 932
Retail Sales ............................................................... 7,878
Service Business ....................................................... 2,093
Amusement/Attractions ............................................ 2,493
Groceries/Markets .................................................... 2,952
All Others ................................................................. 2,406
2005
2,499
4,476
771
4,289
58
882
5,558
794
7,258
2,159
2,325
2,768
2,383
% of Change
1.4
14.2
-14.9
5.0
23.3
13.4
10.6
17.5
8.6
-3.0
7.3
6.7
1.0
WATER USAGE ..........................................
2005
% of Change
2006
*Water usage is measured between the 18th of the month prior to the 17th of the month noted in report.
October 2006 ................................................
YTD ................................................................
65,114
606,501
NATIONAL PARK VISITORS (Gatlinburg Entrance)
2006
October 2006 ................................................
436,132
YTD ............................................................... 2,954,199
59,940
590,633
8.6
2.7
2005 % of Change
397,415
9.7
2,942,431
0.4
December 16
Arrowmont Holiday Open House
Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts
December 26
Boxing Day
Fox & Parrot Tavern
December 31
18th Annual Gatlinburg's New Year's
Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks Show
Traffic light # 8
December 31
Blaine's New Year's Eve Party
Blaine's Grill & Bar
"Dance with the Sharks"
Ripley's Aquarium
Mark Your Calendar
December 2006
Gateway Foundation Holiday Gala
Cancelled
Chamber Open House
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce
No Thanks! Program
Stickers and Posters
Available
Remember “NO THANKS, I’ve
already been asked” stickers are available
at the Chamber office. In addition to the
stickers that you can give to your guests/
customers the Chamber now has a poster
that you can either display in your window
or on your front desk. For more
infor mation call Connie or Sherry at
436.4178.
December 2006
GATLINBURG
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MISSION STATEMENT
Are you paying
On behalf of our membership, the Gatlinburg Chamber
of Commerce will promote, unify, inform, serve and
enhance the business community in a cohesive voice for
the advancement of the economic, environmental, and
social concerns of the community in order to make
Gatlinburg a better place to live, work, and visit.
too much
for your credit card
processing?
AA leader
leader in
in the
the retail
retail credit
credit card
card industry
industry is
is
offering
offering the
the following
following great
great benefits
benefits to
to Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg
Chamber
Chamber of
of Commerce
Commerce Members:
Members:
•• Competitive
Competitive Visa/MasterCard
Visa/MasterCard rates
rates
•• Electronic
Electronic processing
processing of
of all
all major
major credit
credit cards,
cards,
debit
debit cards
cards and
and checks
checks
•• Currently
Currently servicing
servicing over
over 3,000
3,000
merchants
merchants across
across East
East Tennessee
Tennessee
and
and Western
Western North
North Carolina
Carolina
•• 24-Hour
customer
24-Hour customer service
service w/all
w/all
service
service handled
handled locally
locally
FOR
FOR AA FREE
FREE COST
COST COMPARISON
COMPARISON CALL:
CALL:
North
North American
American Merchant
Merchant Services,
Services, Inc.
Inc.
190
190 Community
Community Center
Center Drive,
Drive, Suite
Suite 103
103
Pigeon
Pigeon Forge,
Forge, TN
TN 37863
37863
(865)
(865) 453-4612
453-4612 or
or (888)
(888) 256-6267
256-6267
North American Merchant Services, Inc. is a registered service provider
for US Bank, Minneapolis, MN and Bank of America, NA, Charlotte, NC.
NORTH AMERICAN MERCHANT SERVICES,INC.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Kevin Tierney – President
Dan Booth – Vice President
Chad Reagan – Treasurer
Vickie Blake – Secretary
Ryan DeSear – Sergeant At Arms
Candace Ogle - Past President
Term Expires 2007
Rick Joyce - Deborah Linnert
Chad Reagan - Kevin Tierney
Term Expires 2008
Vickie Blake - Dan Booth
Ryan DeSear
Term Expires 2009
David Dixon - Paula King
Tim King - Jerry Morton
Designated Directors
Robert Montgomery
Gatlinburg Attractions Association
David Duda
Gatlinburg Lodging and
Hospitality Association
Dan Tilley
Wedding Chapel Association
Dr. Ira Lapides
Retail Merchants Association
Theresa Tyler
Arts and Crafts Community
Sup. Dale Ditmanson
GSMNP Liaison
ADDRESS
811 East Parkway • P.O. Box 527
Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738
VISITOR INFORMATION
Toll Free: 800.237.4569
Web: www.gatlinburg.com
Local: 865.436.4178
Fax: 865.430.3876
CHAMBER STAFF
Vicki Simms, ext. 109
Executive Director
Email: [email protected]
Linda Leone, ext. 110
Finance and Administrative Director
Assistant Executive Director
Email: [email protected]
Connie Burns, ext. 113
Member Services Director
Email: [email protected]
Angela Carathers, ext. 102
Internet Communications Director
Email: [email protected]
Gretchen Ogle, ext. 103
Print Publications Director
Email: [email protected]
Sherry Holtzclaw, ext. 114
Member Services Assistant
Email: [email protected]
Gladys Griffin, ext. 106
Lead Area Consultant
Email: [email protected]
Libby Smith, ext. 140
Receptionist
Email: [email protected]
VIEW FROM THE TOP
by Candace Ogle
Outgoing President
This past year I
have had the privilege of serving as
president of the
Gatlinburg Chamber
of Commerce. It
has truly been an
honor to work with
the members of the
Board of Directors,
Executive Director, Vicki Simms and our
dedicated Chamber Staff. Thanks to all
of you for your hard work in achieving
the goals set forth at the beginning of the
year!
Through the efforts of the Board of
Directors, Vicki and Staff, 2006 has been
a very productive year. A few of our
many accomplishments include the
completion of the second phase of the
redesign of gatlinburg.com; downloadable
versions of the Vacation Guide and
videos have been added to the website,
and the online booking program has
been implemented jointly with the City’s
Department of Tourism. Gatlinburg.com
is a tremendous asset to our membership
and is a very valuable marketing tool.
Work on the site is continuous to keep
up with changing trends and to keep
visitors coming back throughout the year.
The Official Chamber In Room Guide
has been redesigned and produced in a
new Hard Cover Edition. The new piece
is absolutely outstanding! In conjunction
with Walter’s State Community College
an ongoing Hospitality Training Program
has been created and implemented, in
which two sessions have been held with
over 600 of your employees in atten-
dance. With direction from the
Board and Vicki’s tireless efforts,
joint regional meetings have been
facilitated and the Chamber has
played a key role in obtaining a
$100,000 Planning Grant for
Highway 321 through America’s
Scenic Byways. We have also
created a “Teacher Supply Depot”
that provides much needed supplies
to teachers at Pi Beta Phi and
Gatlinburg-Pittman High School.
As we kick off the Bicentennial
Celebration for our City, I know we
will all remember where we came
from and will build upon what our
ancestors started for us. They
established this beautiful City for us
to call home and began the creation
of this Crown Jewel of the Smokies.
Over the years, we have continued
to work hard to make Gatlinburg a
better place to live and work and I
know the 2007 Bicentennial year
will be another year of greatness for
our City.
Finally, as my responsibilities as
President come to an end I’d like to
thank the Board of Directors for
allowing me this wonder ful
experience and congratulate your
new President and Board of
Directors. I’m sure next year will
be as successful as this year has
been and I’m looking forward to all
that 2007 will bring! Wishes to
you all for a Merry Christmas and
Happy New Year!
HAVE A
MERRY
CHRISTMAS!
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Gatlinburg, TN
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