2011 Newsletters (PDF format)

Transcription

ATHENS BUSINESS
JANUARY 2011
VOLUME 25
A Publication
of the
Athens Area
Chamber
of Commerce
NO. 1
———————
THE
CHAIRMAN’S CORNER with
David Rymer
As the holiday season is past, the Christmas and New Year’s celebrations for 2010 now a memory, we can take a moment to enjoy and savor
those memories made with family and friends. This is a great time to
reflect on what has been achieved during 2010, opportunities seized and
possibilities created for the upcoming year. Most successes today are
realized by planning and preparation that have been done in the past.
Thank you to everyone who contributed, planned, and participated in
recent area Christmas programs, such as Toy for Kids, Angel Trees, and
Friendly Fellow Food Baskets. It is truly inspirational to see this community pull together and give sacrificially to serve neighbors who are
less fortunate. That attitude and sense of community are what makes this
area such a great place to live!
I would like to take this opportunity to invite everyone to join us on
Thursday, January 27th for the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce’s
65th Annual Meeting and Community Awards Dinner. This is a time
looked forward to by many, when the Chamber Chairman’s gavel is
passed, and also when many community leaders are recognized for their
years of service to our community and their families. This is our time to
come together, honor and celebrate some of the people that make the
Athens area great! The evening will begin at 5:00PM with a silent auction. There are always great items to bid on donated by generous Chamber members. Dinner will begin at 6:00PM and will be followed by the
program and awards presentations. Tickets are $30.00 per person and
may be purchased at the Chamber office located at 13 North Jackson
Street. No tickets will be available at the door, so make sure you purchase yours before the January 20th deadline!
Since this will be my final column as Chairman of the Athens Area
Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, I would like to thank some
key people for their contributions in the past year. First and foremost, I
would like to thank my wife, Joy, for all her help and support and encouragement. I’d also like to thank Rob President, President/CEO, for
his vision and planning for the Chamber. And a thank you to Kay Simmons and Martha Moree who do the behind-the-scenes work for the
Chamber that makes us all look good. We all should feel proud of this
team!
Finally, I would like to thank this community and the Chamber Board
of Directors for allowing me to serve in this capacity for the past year. It
has been an honor and a privilege. I look forward to continuing to be an
active member and supported of the Chamber for many years to come.
I wish each of you a blessed and prosperous 2011!
423-745-0334
The January Spotlight is shining on…
2011
Athens Area Chamber of Commerce
PROGRAM & EVENT SPONSORS
The Athens Area Chamber of Commerce has a very exciting year
planned. We would not be able to provide our members and our
community with these wonderful opportunities and events without
Program & Event Sponsors. We wanted to take this opportunity to
say, “THANK YOU!” to them.
WELCOME TO THESE NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS!
CLASSIC CHARTERS & TOURS
Mr. Robert Nevins
2420 Congress Parkway, Suite 406
Athens, TN 37303
Phone: 423.572.3444
OFFICE FURNITURE WAREHOUSE
Mr. John Jerman
713 South Lee Highway
Cleveland, TN 37311
Phone: 404.966.9687
Website: www.ofwllc.com
Full-service charter & limousine services
Retail sales
SILVER MOMENTS
Mrs. Stephanie Devine
2 East Washington Avenue
Athens, TN 37303
Phone: 423.746.4438
Website: www.silvermomentsjewelryandgifts.com
Retail sales / jewelry / candles / accessories
CHAMBER BUSINESS PARTNERS & INVESTORS
Because members renew memberships at different times throughout the year, listings are provided on a
monthly basis. These members renewed their memberships during December 2010.
AUB
Arnett Heating & Air
Athens Federal Community Bank
Athens Housing Authority
Athens Regional Medical Center
BB&T Insurance Company
Ben Finch Photography
Biddle & Trew, LLP
Carter, Harrod, Willhite
Coker Millwrights, Inc.
Crescent, Inc.
Days Inn of Athens
Edward Jones-James R. Nelson
Heavenly Creations by Jen
Heil Trailer International
Keith Memorial United Meth. Church
L & M Motors, Inc.
Lay Realty Company, Inc.
Ziegler Funeral Home
Partners for Christian Media, Inc.
Rural Metro Corp. of Tennessee
Service Master Commercial Cleaning
Shelley F. Griffith, MD
Southern Hydraulics Cylinder
Tennessee Career Center
Tennessee Service Company
The Outdoor Store
Tsali Notch Vineyards, LLC
$ $ $ $ ECONOMIC INDICATORS $ $ $ $
NEW BUSINESS LICENSES - Nov. & Dec.
November Unemployment Rate
City of Athens
2010
McMinn Co.
Tennessee
United States
12.1%
9.4%
9.8%
2009
McMinn Co.
Tennessee
United States
13.1%
10.7%
10.0%
Local Sales Tax Collected
November 2010
July—Nov 2010
$ 659,169
$ 3,404,450
November 2009
July—Nov 2008
$ 590,720
$ 3,284,410
(Figures are from the latest state-provided data.)
Our Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary organization of citizens who invest their time and money in a
community development program working together to improve the economic, civic
and cultural well being of our community.
Why I Should Belong to The Chamber of Commerce?
Active Membership in our Chamber of Commerce carries with it a sense of accomplishment and
satisfaction from the knowledge that you are doing your share of an important job.
Although everyone in the community benefits from the work of our
Chamber of Commerce, you can accept those benefits with a sense of pride only if you have had a part in
bringing them about. Build your business by building your community. Benefits of membership in the
Chamber include a wealth of advertising and exposure through participation in various events, inclusion
in the Chamber website, newsletter, and networking opportunities.
For information about becoming a Chamber member, please call us at (423) 745-0334.
Adelaida Schilling
Auto Outlet
Comcast Broadband Security
J and J Tile
M.D.S. Builders, Inc.
Sitters on Demand
Tailored Foam, Inc.
Toscano Pizza & Italian
Grill
Treasures Antiques &
Furniture
McMinn County
Adelaide Schilling
MDL Remarketing
Advanced Power & Lighting Memory Machines
Auto Outlet
My Electronics
Braska Jennea Photography
Playground
Camacho’s Auto Repair
Nicholas Mashburn
& Car Wash
Otis P. Bishop
Charleston Construction Co. Price Backhoe Service
Comcast Broadband Security Red Stag Contractor
East TN Grading, Inc.
Robbie’s Small Engines
East TN Properties
Rose Rene Psychic
Ingram Rental
Save Smart
J & J Tile
Service Electric Co.
La Bre’
Sitters on Demand
M. L. Clark Ministries
Superior Walls of East
M-Tech
TN
Mar-Von Termite & Pest
Tailored Foam, Inc.
Control
Toscano Pizza & Grill
Treasures Antiques & Furniture
Upcoming Chamber and Community Events
YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS THESE…
65th ANNUAL MEETING & COMMUNITY AWARDS DINNER
Date: Thursday, January 27
Time: 5:00PM Silent Auction
6:00PM Dinner & Program
Location: Sherman Fine Arts Bldg. at TWC
Tickets: $30 per person Available at Athens Chamber of Commerce
13 North Jackson Street, Athens
Deadline: Tickets must be purchased by Thursday, January 20th
Tickets will not be available at the door
For more info: Call 423.745.0334
2nd Annual Leadership Alumni Seminar
with Guest Speaker
2ND ANNUAL LEADERSHIP ALUMNI SEMINAR
GUEST SPEAKER, TINA WESSON
Date: Friday, February 11
Time: 8:00AM
Location: McMinn County Senior Center 205 McMinn Avenue
Tickets: $10 for Leadership McMinn Alumni
$15 for General Public
ATHENS AREA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS PRESENTS
VANCE GILBERT
Date: Friday, February 11
Time: 5:30PM
Location: The Arts Center 320 N. White Street Athens
Tickets: $15 (Adults) $8 (Students)
For more info: Call 423.745.8781 or www.athensartscouncil.org
LUNCH & LEARN SEMINAR WITH
PASCARELLA & MILLER, CPAs
“SAVE! Don’t Pay This Tax Season”
Date: Thursday, February 17
Time: 11:45AM—1:00PM
Location: To be announced
FREE to the public - Lunch included - Reservation required by Feb. 14
Reservations and more info: Call 423.745.0334
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
Date: Thursday, February 17
Time: 5:30PM—7:00PM
Location: Comfort Inn of Athens 2811 Decatur Pike Athens
TINA WESSON
2001 Winner of “SURVIVOR—OUTBACK”
Friday, Feb. 11
8:00AM
McMinn Senior Center
205 McMinn Ave.
Athens
Date: Thursday, March 17
Location: Bowater Employees Credit Union
1112 South Congress Parkway Athens
To have your event announced on this calendar contact
Kay Simmons at [email protected]
or call 423.745.0334.
General Public
$15
4th Annual Community Concert with
JACI VELASQUEZ
Saturday, April 16
7:00PM
Athens Junior
High School
200 Keith Lane
*Tickets: $7 per person
(no reserved seating)
5th Annual Benefit Dinner
with Guest Speaker
“THE INCREDIBLE
HULK”
ATHENS COMMUNITY THEATHER PRESENTS
“ANNIE”
Sponsored by: SoutEast Bank & Trust and Don & LeeAnn Moates
Date: February 17—19; 24—26
Time: 7:00PM
February 20 & 27
2:00PM
For more info: 423.745.8781 or www.athensartscouncil.org
ATHENS AREA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS AUXILLIARY
“ARTS GALA”
Date: Saturday, March 5
Time: 7:30PM—Midnight
Tickets and more info: Call 423.745.8781; www.athensartscouncil.org
*Tickets:
Leadership
McMinn Alumni
$10
LOU
FERRIGNO
Saturday, July 16
6:00PM Dinner
7:00PM Program
McMinn County High School
2215 S. Congress Parkway
Athens
*Tickets:
$20—Dinner Included
$10—Program Only
*Tickets for each event are available at Chamber office
13 N. Jackson Street Athens or by calling (423) 745-0334
ATHENS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
13 North Jackson Street, Athens, TN 37303
E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.athenschamber.org
There will be no Business After Hours
in January. Business After Hours will
resume in February.
2011 OFFICERS
Chairman
Chairman Elect
Vice Chairman
Treasurer
Immediate Past Chairman
All Chamber members are invited to
attend the Chamber’s
65th Annual Meeting &
Community Awards Dinner
Patti Greek
Connie Allen
Murray Willis
Becky Wattenbarger
David Rymer
2011 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Patti Greek
Becky Wattenbarger
Shona Burden
Marilyn Miller
Carol McNutt
Thursday, January 27th
5:00PM Silent Auction
6:00PM Dinner & Program
Tennessee Wesleyan College
Sherman Fine Arts Building
Connie Allen
David Rymer
Laurie Hallenberg
Moises Contreras
Neil Mistry
Shane Sewell
Murray Wills
Michelle Hoppe
Blake McCaslin
Shawn Lindsey
Jackie Newman
EX-OFFICIO
John Gentry, Mayor, McMinn County
Hal Buttram, Mayor, City of Athens
Jack Hammontree, McMinn County Economic Development Authority
STAFF
Rob Preston
President/CEO
Kay Simmons
Program Director
Martha Moree
Accounts Coordinator
Tickets are available for $30 per person
at the Chamber office
13 N. Jackson Street Athens
or call 745-0334
Tickets will be sold until January 20th
ATHENS BUSINESS is a monthly publication for the members of the
Athens Area Chamber of Commerce.
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The Daily Post-Athenian
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423-263-3600
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Jerry Trotter, R.Ph.
Phone (423) 746-2626
Fax (423) 746-2624
Donna Cook, R.Ph.
Cayci Pittman, D.Ph.
745-1962
ATHENS BUSINESS
FEBRUARY 2011
VOLUME 25
A Publication
of the
Athens Area
Chamber
of Commerce
NO. 2
———————
423-745-0334
MEET THE NEW
ATHENS AREA CHAMBER OF COMERCE
BOARD MEMBERS
0RLVHV&RQWUHUDVis the owner and chief instructor of Athens Taekwondo
Plus located on Decatur Pike in Athens. He began his taekwondo training
as a teenager in Mexico City and trained with the Mexican National Team
until he moved to the United States in 1990. He and his wife, Nancy,
opened their Athens school in 1999. In 2009 Moises was awarded the rank
of 6th Degree Master in Taekwondo from the International Taekwondo
Alliance, one of the largest organizations of martial arts schools in the world. Moises earned his US
citizenship in 2008, and in 2009 was recognized as one of The Daily Post-Athenian’s “20 Under
40”. In 2010 he was asked to join the Athens Federal Foundation Board of Directors. Moises and
Nancy and their daughter, Kristen, live in Riceville.
6KDZQ/LQGVH\is the Public Works Director of Athens, TN. He holds a
Master’s Degree in Public Management and a BS in Political Science from
East TN State University. He currently serves as the President-Elect of the TN
Chapter of American Public Works Association and a former Vice President of
the Volunteer Chapter of the Solid Waste Association of North America.
Shawn has doubled recycling efforts not just in Athens, but in two other TN
cities curing his career. He has served on the TDEC Solid Waste Task Force
and lead Athens to be the recipient of the 2010 Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Award for
Aquatic Protection and the TML Municipal Excellence Award in Public Works. Shawn serves on
the board of Keep McMinn Beautiful, is a Boy Scout Master of Troop 617 in Athens. He and his
wife, Kammee, have three sons.
&DURO0F1XWWhas been employed with Heil Trailer International for 27 years.
Most of that time she worked in procurement and supply chain, but three years
ago she was promoted to plant manager. Carol has been involved with Junior
Achievement, supports McMinn County’s “Relay for Life”, and is a graduate of
Leadership McMinn. She enjoys spending time outdoors and traveling. Carol is
married to Jeff McNutt and they have three children.
1HLO0LVWU\, a native of India, currently resides in Niota. He and his family
moved to Sweetwater in 2001. He is the owner and president of three
hotels, two in Sweetwater and the brand new Comfort Inn Hotel in Athens.
Neil was educated at St. Joseph’s Convent and St. Francis of Assisi Convent
High School. He is a graduate of Leadership McMinn, serves on the Retail
Tourism Committee and is a member of the Optimist Club of Athens.
-DFNLH1HZPDQis a lifelong resident of Athens. She attended TN Technological
University where she received both her Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees and is
currently pursuing an EdS degree. Jackie serves as an adjunct instructor for
Cleveland State Community College. She is a member and past president of the
Optimist Club of Athens and serves on the board for Junior Achievement of the
Ocoee Region. Jackie works closely with the McMinn County Junior Miss
program and serves on the National MooFest committee. She and her husband,
Todd, are active members of Idlewild Baptist Church and have two children, Bryson and Halle.
6KDQH6HZHOOwas born in Athens, attended Ingleside Elementary School,
Athens Junior High School and graduated from McMinn County High School.
In 2000, he graduated with a BS in Business Administration/Finance from TN
Technological University. Shane is currently employed at Athens Federal
Community Bank where he serves as Vice President of Lending and is the
CRA officer. He is an active member of the Optimist Club of Athens, is a
graduate of Leadership McMinn, serves on the board of Full Circle Women’s
Services, volunteers with the Boy Scouts of America and Junior Achievement. Shane and his wife,
Amy, are active members of Athens Church of Christ where he also serves as a deacon.
7KH)HEUXDU\6SRWOLJKWLVVKLQLQJRQ«
201 S Congress Pkwy
Athens, TN
37303
423-744-9828
Matlock Tire Service began as a small shop in Lenoir City in
1953. It was founded by Joe Matlock, who built his business on
treating customers fairly and providing excellent service. Now his
son, Jimmy Matlock, has expanded the business to four locations:
Athens, Farragut, Lenoir City and Maryville. Jimmy’s goal is to
maintain the Matlock legacy of integrity, experience and
professionalism.
With several ASE (National Institute for Automotive Service
Excellence) certified technicians, you know that you’re in good
hands. They provide minor automotive repairs, oil changes,
alignment services, brake work and preventive maintenance.
Matlock Tire Service is an authorized dealer for Goodyear,
Michelin, Uniroyal, Kelley and BF Goodrich. Additionally, they are
the only authorized dealer in Knox and Loudon counties to carry the
more affordable Dunlop tire.
Matlock Tire Service is proud of their many long-term
employees. Many staff members have been loyal team players for
over 10 years, in fact several have been contributing for more than
25 years! Much of the Matlock Tire Service success is due to their
dedicated teams. This loyalty from employees, as well as from
customers, has opened the doors for much growth and long-term
relationships.
The customer’s experience matters to Matlock Tire Service
employees, and they want it to be the best possible. That’s why
Matlock Tire Service has focused on having the best service
centers in the area. Customers will always find clean facilities,
understanding technicians, and the quality of service Matlock Tire
customers have grown to expect.
Owner, Jimmy Matlock would appreciate Athens Chamber
newsletter readers giving Matlock Tire Service the opportunity to
service their car needs. The minor auto repair services offered at
Matlock Tire include: complete wheel alignment service of
passenger cars and light trucks; oil, filter and lube; brakes, shocks
and struts; cooling system service; transmission service; routine
repairs; scheduled maintenance; and Matlock Tire now has
nitrogen.
The Athens location is open Monday—Friday 7:30AM—5:30PM
and Saturday 7:30AM—Noon. WELCOME TO THESE NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS!
BIZ WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS
Lacey Passmore-Starkey, Owner
240 Fyke Drive
Athens, TN 37303
Phone: 423.829.4362
Cellular accessories at discount prices
for business or personal needs
(also Verizon Wireless sales)
TOSCANO ITALIAN GRILL
Tarek (Terry) Ismaiel, Owner
925 Decatur Pike
Athens, TN 37303
Phone: 423.746.9900
423.746.9300
Authentic Italian Restaurant
(Dine-in, Carryout, Delivery)
McMINN COUNTY EQUINE ASSOCIATION
Melissa Allen, President
Sherry Williams, Secretary/Treasurer
P. O. Box 449
Athens, TN 37371-0449
Phone: 423.506.6415
Website:
www.mcminncountyequineassociation.net
WHITNEY MALONE
440 Gettys Lane
Athens, TN 37303
423.453.6295
Individual Membership
STAYS HERE!
%HFDXVHPHPEHUVUHQHZPHPEHUVKLSVDWGLIIHUHQWWLPHVWKURXJKRXWWKH\HDUOLVWLQJVDUHSURYLGHGRQDPRQWKO\EDVLV
AbitibiBowater
Amedisys
Ann S. Davis
APAC-Atlantic Inc.
Athens City Board of Education
Athens Clinic of Chiropractic
Athens Insurance
Athens Station, LLC
Athens TaeKwondo Plus
Bald Headed Bistro
Child Support Services
Citizens National Bank
Clearwater Baptist Church
Cleveland State Comm. College
David Siklosi, Attorney
Dogwood Dental Care, PLLC
FSGBank
HR Sources & Solutions
Hardee’s
Jerry Estes Law Offices, PLLC
Mayfield Dairy Farms, Inc.
McDonald’s
McKee Promotions
McMinn County Farm Bureau
Pascarella & Miller, CPAs, PLLC
Philip K. Arnold, DDS, MS, PC
Sherwin Williams
State Senator Mike Bell
Sullins Eyecare
Tarver Distributing Company, Inc.
Thomas & Betts
TN Valley Federal Credit Union
Toomey & Baggett Eyecare
United Community Bank
US Congressman John J. Duncan, Jr.
Vulcan Materials
WJSQ/WLAR/WYGO
Wal-Mart
Wayne Crabtree
Wellington Place of Athens
Western Sizzlin’ Steak House
Womac Insurance Agency, LLC
/81&+LEARN
Seminar
$ $ $ $ ECONOMIC INDICATORS $ $ $ $
“SAVE! Don’t pay this tax season”
December Unemployment Rate
*Tips to save *Retirement planning
*Update on tax laws
2010
McMinn Co.
Tennessee
United States
11.7%
9.4%
9.4%
2009
McMinn Co.
Tennessee
United States
13.1%
10.9%
10.0%
Presented by
Lou Pascarella, CPA & Marilyn Miller, CPA
of Pascarella & Miller, CPAs, PLLC
Thursday, February 17 11:45AM—1:00PM FREE to the public
Cleveland St. Comm. College Athens Campus
Lunch provided - Reservation deadline 2/15 - Call 745-0334
Local (McMinn Co.) Sales Tax Collected
Our Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary organization of citizens who invest their time and money in a
community development program working together to improve the economic, civic
Chamber of Commerce, you can accept those benefits with a sense of pride only if you have had a part in
bringing them about. Build your business by building your community. Benefits of membership in the
Chamber include a wealth of advertising and exposure through participation in various events, inclusion
in the Chamber website, newsletter, and networking opportunities.
December 2010
July—Dec 2010
$ 672,469
$ 4,076,919
December 2009
July—Dec 2009
$ 639,763
$ 3,924,173
(Figures are from the latest state-provided data.)
8SFRPLQJ&KDPEHUDQG&RPPXQLW\(YHQWV
2ND ANNUAL LEADERSHIP ALUMNI SEMINAR
GUEST SPEAKER, TINA WESSON
Date: Friday, February 11 Time: 8:00AM
Location: McMinn County Senior Center 205 McMinn Avenue
Tickets: $10 for Leadership McMinn Alumni
$15 for General Public
ATHENS AREA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS PRESENTS
VANCE GILBERT
Date: Friday, February 11 Time: 5:30PM
LUNCH & LEARN SEMINAR WITH
PASCARELLA & MILLER, CPAs
“SAVE! Don’t Pay This Tax Season”
Date: Thursday, February 17 Time: 11:45AM—1:00PM
Location: To be announced
FREE to the public - Lunch included - Reservation required by Feb. 14
Reservations and more info: Call 423.745.0334
Date: Thursday, February 17 Time: 5:30PM—7:00PM
Location: Comfort Inn of Athens 2811 Decatur Pike Athens
ATHENS COMMUNITY THEATHER PRESENTS
“ANNIE”
Sponsored by: SoutEast Bank & Trust and Don & LeeAnn Moates
Date: February 17—19; 24—26 Time: 7:00PM
February 20 & 27
2:00PM
For more info: 423.745.8781 or www.athensartscouncil.org
2011 EVENTS TO PUT ON YOUR CALENDAR
2nd Annual Leadership Alumni Seminar
with Guest Speaker
TINA WESSON
**Tickets:
Leadership
McMinn Alumni
$10
Friday, Feb. 12
8:00AM
McMinn Senior Center
205 McMinn Ave.
Athens
General Public
$15
4th Annual Community Concert with
JACI VELASQUEZ
Friday, April 16
7:00PM
Athens Junior High School
200 Keith Lane
**Tickets: $7 per person
(no reserved seating)
with Guest Speaker
´7+(,1&5(',%/(
+8/.µ
ATHENS AREA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS AUXILLIARY
“ARTS GALA”
Date: Saturday, March 5 Time: 7:30PM—Midnight
Tickets and more info: Call 423.745.8781; www.athensartscouncil.org
Date: Thursday, March 17 Time: 5:30PM—7:00PM
4th ANNUAL COMMUNITY CONCERT
with JACI VELASQUEZ
Date: Saturday, April 16 Time: 7:00PM
Location: Athens Junior High School 200 Keith Lane Athens
Tickets: All seats $7.00 (general admission)
7RKDYH\RXUHYHQWDQQRXQFHGRQWKLVFDOHQGDUFRQWDFW
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RUFDOO
/28
)(55,*12
Saturday, July 16
6:00PM Dinner
7:00PM Program
Athens
**Tickets:
$10—Program Only
**Tickets for each event are available at Chamber office
13 N. Jackson Street Athens or by calling (423) 745-0334
in cooperation with
2011 OFFICERS
Chairman
Chairman Elect
Vice Chairman
Chief Financial Officer
Patti Greek
Connie Allen
Murray Willis
Becky Wattenbarger
David Rymer
Connie Allen
Patti Greek
Shawn Lindsey
Marilyn Miller
David Rymer
2811 Decatur Pike
Athens, TN 37303
Shona Burden
Laurie Hallenberg
Blake McCaslin
Neil Mistry
Shane Sewell
Murray Willis
Moises Contreras
Michelle Hoppe
Carol McNutt
Jackie Newman
Becky Wattenbarger
“BUSINESS AFTER HOURS”
EX-OFFICIO
Thursday, February 17, 2011
5:30PM - 7:00PM
Cheryl Bressler, Diplomat Corps Chairman
Mayor Hal Buttram, City of Athens
Mayor John Gentry, McMinn County
Jack Hammontree, McMinn Co. Economic Development Authority
Come and enjoy food, networking with other
Chamber members, door prize drawings
(bring your business card to enter)
For more information: 745-0334
STAFF
Rob Preston
Kay Simmons
Martha Moree
President/CEO
Program Director
The Daily
PostAthenian
“Come By For A Free
3-Day Trial”
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745-4904
745-3663
www.athensmcminnymca.org
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ATHENS BUSINESS
MARCH 2011
VOLUME 26
A Publication
of the
Athens Area
Chamber
of Commerce
NO. 3
———————
THE
3DWWL*UHHN
What an exciting time for the Athens Area Chamber of
Commerce! Here is just a taste of what is going on…
Athens has a new Tourism Director
Check out page 2 for a tourism update from Karen Kelley.
Athens is developing an
Enterprise Development Center
Be on the lookout for details about this wonderful
endeavor, which will give small business start-ups some
incubating care until they are able to spread their wings and
fly on their own.
Athens Area Chamber of Commerce’s
2011 Membership Drive
“The Fabulous Four” (Cheryl Bressler, Daisy Dunlop,
Billie Crabtree and Sherry McKee) are working hard to add as
many new members to the Chamber’s roster as possible.
The drive, featuring awesome new member incentives,
will be on-going until April 12th.
Some of you might be thinking, “What is the Chamber?”
I would encourage you to consider the following…
Citizens for business
Here for your business’ prosperity and profits
All businesses welcomed
Multiple opportunities for networking
Because you care about the Athens area prosperity
Everyone can contribute with their experience
Rip-roaring good times at Business After/ Before Hrs.
The Chamber is all of US! So, please be as involved as
you can possibly be. Great things are happening and the
Chamber’s success depends on you and me!
423-745-0334
The March Spotlight is shining on…
416 N Congress
Parkway
Athens, TN
37303
Encore Garden Group is delighted to join the Athens
community. After working in the Atlanta area for several years,
Josh Hall, an Athens native with a degree in landscape
contracting from Mississippi State University, returned home to
launch Encore Garden Group in 2009. Encore offers outstanding
service in landscape maintenance and installation to their
commercial and residential clients. Encore’s heartfelt goal is to
provide quality services in a professional manner.
Do you want your landscape to be maintained to the highest
standards? Encore Garden Group offers superior service at
competitive rates. With their weekly or bi-weekly maintenance
plans they can meet the needs of any budget. Their landscape
maintenance service plans promote healthy plants and turf.
These plans include services such as mowing, pruning, edging,
weed control and leaf removal. Site supervisor Juan Garcia and
his crew take great pride in their work and ensure satisfaction
with every job. Regular landscape maintenance provides
exceptional value by preventing problems before they get out of
hand. It keeps your property looking beautiful while revealing
areas of need before they become expensive concerns.
Are you tired of looking longingly at your neighbor’s green,
healthy lawn? Let Encore create a beautiful lawn for you!
Because they are licensed turf applicators who stay current with
modern methods, they provide both preventative care and
treatment for existing conditions. In addition to providing a
healthy lawn, the team at Encore can also improve your
landscape with new plantings and other landscape
enhancements.
Encore Garden Group thanks their loyal customers for their
support and encouragement over the past two years. They
would also appreciate the opportunity to establish new client
relationships. Call 423.744.0806 today to find out what Encore
Garden Group can do for you!
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AIM Mail Center
American Publishing
Arch Chemicals, Inc.
Athens Parcel B, Inc.
Caris Healthcare, LP
Carter Dental Office, PLLC
Classic Lanes
Coleman Glass Company
East –West Media, Inc.
Giles Heating & Air
Gondolier Pizza & Steak House
J.M. Huber Corporation
Jackson & Runyan, CPAs, PLLC
Johnson’s Home Furnishings
Keylon Eyecare, PC
Laugherty Properties
Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home, Inc.
Mitchell Ear, Nose and Throat Center
Moore Discount, Inc.
Pioneer Credit Company
Price Chiropractic Office
River Counties Association of Realtors
Sliger’s Jewelers
Social Security Advocates
TOURISM TALK
with
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The Athens Area Tourism Department in association with the Athens
Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce plans to open a
Visitors Center on April 18th in cooperation with Tennessee Log
Homes at the site of their Model Home located at 2537 Decatur Pike in
Athens.
With over 30,000
cars traveling
Interstate 75 daily
and passing by the
Athens area, it is
our intent to place
appropriate
signage along I-75
announcing the
Visitors Center
and welcoming
guests to “The
Friendly City.”
Suburban Propane Gas
Wellington Place of Athens
Women’s Center of East Tennessee
IT PAY$ TO
SHOP
LOCAL!
information regarding the many activities available to tourists of all
ages. There will also be a detailed map of the area to assist with
navigating from site to site. Suggestions of local retailers, in addition
to a limited variety of souvenirs promoting “The Friendly City” and
relating to tourism will be available at the Center, as well.
Volunteers are currently being sought to offer assistance to travelers
from 10:00AM to 5:00PM each day. If you or your organization is
interested in volunteering at the Center four hours or more during a
week, please contact Karen by calling 745.0334 or by email at
[email protected].
The Visitors Center would also like to offer incentive coupons from
local retail establishments in order to encourage patronage from
visitors. Pre-determined coupons must be presented at the time of
purchase to ensure visitors secured them from the Center. Retailers
are encouraged to be creative and develop incentives pertinent to
their particular business. Some suggestions for consideration are:
1) 10% off of total purchase
2) Receive a free beverage or dessert w/ meal purchase
3) Buy one and get one half price
If you are interested in your business or organization participating
with coupon incentives in order to attract visitors to your
establishment, please contact Karen at 423.745.0334 or
[email protected].
The Visitors Center will introduce travelers to the Athens area with
Our Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary organization of citizens who invest their time and money in a community development program working together to improve the economic, civic
Chamber of Commerce, you can accept those benefits with a sense of pride only if you have had a part in bringing them about. Build your business by building your
community. Benefits of membership in the Chamber include a wealth of advertising and exposure through participation in various events, inclusion in the Chamber
website, newsletter, and networking opportunities.
CONGRATULATIONS, JIM CUCCIARRE!
DIPLOMAT OF THE MONTH
FEBRUARY 2011
Your Chamber at work for you…
February 2011
Retail Visits - 2
Relocation Packets / Information Requests - 9
Visits to Chamber Website - 7125
If you know of someone interested in the Athens area, please let
us know and we will be happy to send them information.
EVENTS COMING IN 2011...
4th Annual
Community Concert
with
Date: Thursday, March 17 Time: 5:30PM—7:00PM
ATHENS TRAVELERS “CRUISE IN”
Date: Saturday, March 19 Time: 4:00PM ‘til (rain or shine)
Location: Historic Downtown Athens (around the McMinn Courthouse)
Absolutely NO alcoholic beverages, NO loud music, NO profane lyrics
Bring one or more non-perishable items to donate to the local food bank
For more info: Danny Richesin 744.4835; Jerry Poats 507.7312
Rick Swafford 453.5576
ATHENS AREA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS
“OUR THREE TENORS”
Date: Friday and Saturday, March 25 & 26 Time: 7:30PM
Sunday, March 27
2:30PM
Location: The Arts Center, 320 N White Street, Athens
Tickets: $15 Adults $12 Students
A variety of hors d’oeuvres, desserts and a cash bar will be available at
all performances.
GRACE & MERCY MINISTRIES
“RACE FOR GRACE”
5K Road Race / 1 Mile Fun Run & Walk
Date: Saturday, April 9
Time: 8:00AM
Location: Out and back course beginning at back of Applebee’s
Registration: Entry Form must be completed by each entrant
Pre-registration $12 Day of registration $15 Family registration $30
Pre-registration must be postmarked by 04/01/11
For more info: Contact Tanya Murphy [email protected]
4th ANNUAL COMMUNITY CONCERT
with JACI VELASQUEZ
Date: Saturday, April 16 Time: 7:00PM
Location: Athens Junior High School 200 Keith Lane Athens
Tickets: All seats $7.00 (general admission)
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RUFDOO
JACI VELASQUEZ
Saturday, April 16
7:00PM
Athens Junior High School Auditorium
200 Keith Lane
Athens
**Tickets: $7 per person (all general admission)
Tickets available by calling 745.0334
SPONSORS: April Perry Randle, Citizens National Bank, Corporate Network Solutions, First Baptist Church
Life Care Center of Athens, Madison Avenue Pharmacy, Matlock Tire & Auto Repair, Universal Travel, Social
Security Advocates, TN Valley Federal Credit Union, GreenBank, Mars Hill Presbyterian Church, J103,
Uniforms for You, Clearwater Baptist Church, CONTACT Inc., Hollywood Body Spa, Crescent Sock Company
with Guest Speaker
LOU FERRIGNO
“THE INCREDIBLE
HULK”
Saturday, July 16
6:00PM Dinner
7:00PM Program
Athens
**Tickets:
$10—Program Only
*ROG6SRQVRUV April Perry Randle, Citizens National Bank, Corporate Network Solutions, First Baptist
Church, Life Care Center, Madison Avenue Pharmacy, Matlock Tire Service, Social Security Advocates, TN
Valley Federal Credit Union, Universal Travel
6LOYHU6SRQVRUVAT&T, Athens Regional Medical Center, BenchMark Physical Therapy, Clearwater Baptist
Church, Comfort Inn, Edward Jones, GreenBank, Hampton Inn/Holiday Inn, Hollywood Body Spa, Hyperbaric
Wound Treatment Center, Mayfield Dairy Farms, Pascarella & Miller CPAs, Rural Metro, Selective Structures,
Smoky Mountain Water, Toomey & Baggett Eyecare Clinic, Woods Hospital
in cooperation with
2011 OFFICERS
Chairman
Chairman Elect
Vice Chairman
Patti Greek
Connie Allen
Murray Willis
Becky Wattenbarger
David Rymer
1112 South Congress Parkway
Athens, TN 37303
Connie Allen
Patti Greek
Shawn Lindsey
Marilyn Miller
David Rymer
Shona Burden
Laurie Hallenberg
Blake McCaslin
Neil Mistry
Shane Sewell
Murray Willis
Moises Contreras
Michelle Hoppe
Carol McNutt
Jackie Newman
Becky Wattenbarger
EX-OFFICIO
Thursday, March 17, 2011
5:30PM - 7:00PM
For more information: 745-0334
STAFF
Rob Preston
Kay Simmons
Martha Moree
President/CEO
Program Director
Daylight Saving Time
Begins March 13th!
886 Hwy. 411
Etowah
423-263-3600
423-745-5830
WWWHEILTRAILERCOM
Aiming for
better
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you can join BECU!
Anyone who lives or works in McMinn and Meigs County is eligible.
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ZZZERZDWHUHFXRUJ
ATHENS BUSINESS
APRIL 2011
VOLUME 26
A Publication
of the
Athens Area
Chamber
of Commerce
NO. 4
———————
423-745-0334
THE
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Do you know about “Chamber Perks”?
Two years ago, Chamber Chairman Chris Adams gave the board members a
challenge to tweak the “Shop Local” campaign to give people more of an
incentive to shop with local Chamber members, as well as giving an additional
benefit to becoming a Chamber member. Thus, the “Chamber Perks Program”
was born. The original “perks” were offered at member restaurants and after
several weeks all Chamber members were issued an invitation to participate.
The Chamber gave out almost 1,400 cards. However, I have doubts that they
are being used. As a business owner, the perk I offered for two months was 15%
off of candles. Unfortunately, the number of customers that took advantage of this
perk was lower than I had hoped.
So, here are my questions to you…
As a Chamber member, do you know about “Chamber Perks”?
If you know about “Chamber Perks”...do you like them?
What could be added that would make you want to shop & eat locally?
Anyone that is a Chamber member may offer a “perk” at anytime… what
kinds of “perks” would you like to see? We need your ideas! What would you like for the Chamber to offer?
On another thought…are you aware of these great local projects?
Market Park - This project is moving at a quick pace! Phase 1 will be completed
by June 30th.
McMinn County Living Heritage Museum - This wonderful organization will have
an ampitheater in about 3 to 4 weeks. This is being accomplished with the help
of a grant Public Words Director Shawn Lindsey secured, along with the efforts of
his staff at Athens City Public Works, Mouse Creek Nursery, TWC student
volunteers who are building the “rain garden,” along with help from AUB and
Asplundh.
E. G. Fisher Public Library - Don’t forget the “planting party” on April 16th for
the beautiful wet lands / rain garden! Again, this project could not be done
without the help of Shawn Lindsey and his public works staff.
One more exciting tidbit - There will be a video produced of these rain gardens
with the assistance of local videographic producer Haley-MAX and the voice of
Mr. Bill Landry, host of The Heartland Series. We will keep you posted about the
release date of this video!
We are very lucky to live in this community! So many people working
together to make our hometown pretty and vibrant!
Now...if you can think of ideas to share of ways WE need to add to the Chamber
Perks Program, please email us. We cannot make this project a success without
YOUR thoughts!
Send all suggestions to this address: [email protected]
The April Spotlight is shining on…
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Many people know Terry McKee as a sales associate for
Chota Outfitters and Sherry McKee as an account representative for Valley Printers. But, they also have their “FUN”
business, MP Entertainment, a division of McKee Promotions.
MP Entertainment is a DJ, live sound, karaoke and lighting
company. They
specialize in weddings,
corporate or birthday
parties, and provide live
sound for entertainers or
sound equipment for
events; working all types
of venues, indoor and/or
outdoors.
MP Entertainment is
your number one source
Sherry and Terry McKee, owners
for entertainment,
surpassing the
competition not only in cost, but value, as well. They are the
official “sound company” for WJSQ/WLAR for their “Music on the
Menu.” They will also be providing sound for the Don Ledford /
WJSQ/WLAR stage at National Moofest this year.
Terry’s experience with sound has given him the reputation
of “perfect” when doing sound checks for many entertainers.
Terry and Sherry are members of the National Association of
Mobile Entertainers. They continue to set the standard for top
quality entertainment and live sound.
Check out their new website at mckeepromotions.com or call
Terry at 423.462.1880 or Sherry at 423.519.6926 or email them
at [email protected]
“Let the music begin!” is their slogan and they are ready to
handle all your entertainment needs!
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Athens Eye Associates
Athens Mini Storage
Athens Pediatrics, PLLC
Bargain Barn, Inc.
Cash Now
Covenant Pediatrics
Domino’s (Athens Pizza)
Farm Credit Services
First Financial of Tennessee
GreenBank
Greenstream Recycling
Harold “Prof” Powers
Hiwassee Builders Supply
Holston Gases, Inc.
Joel C. Riley
Johnson Real Estate Company
Life Care Center of Athens
Linda Borstelmann, CPA
Majestic Mansion B & B
MIG-Manufacturer’s Industrial Group, LLC
Morning Pointe of Athens
NHC Healthcare of Athens
Professional Therapy Services of TN, LLC
Randall Fisher Construction Company, Inc.
Regions Bank
Reid, Winder & Green, PLLC
Selective Structures, LLC
Servpro of McMinn, Monroe & Polk
Smith Funeral & Cremation Services
Southland Finance, Inc.
The Mattress Outlet
United Grocery Outlet
Valley Title Services
Wholesale Supply Group
Wimberly, Lawson, Wright, Daves, & Jones
Woolf, McClane, Bright, Allen & Carpenter
TOURISM TALK
with
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GREAT NEWS! The Great Race is returning to Athens!
Many of you might remember a lovely summer’s day in 1999 when downtown
Athens played host to this great event. The drivers received such a warm welcome
from “The Friendly City” that they voted Athens “Best Pit Stop”! Now twelve years
later the race is returning to our fair city and we are hopeful that many Athens
citizens will flood downtown to greet them.
The drivers of over 80 vintage and antique cars, trucks and hot rods with body
and drive train built 1969 and earlier will arrive in Athens at 11:30AM on Saturday,
June 11th for a lunch stop. Everyone is invited to come downtown to see these
beautiful cars and to give each driver a warm and friendly welcome for which this
great hospitable community is known.
Plan to bring the entire family to enjoy this exciting event. There will be food
vendors and the local car club, Athens Travelers, will also have vintage and antique
automobiles on display.
The Great Race is a cross-country rally that pits driver/navigator teams against
the clock and each other. This year’s event will be an East Coast Rally through
eight states, from Chattanooga, TN to Bennington, VT, along the majestic
Appalachian Mountain range.
Please join us! We don’t know when The Great Race will pass our way again!
CONGRATULATIONS, CHERYL BRESSLER!
MARCH 2011
March 2011
Retail Visits - 1
EVENTS COMING IN 2011...
4th Annual
Community Concert
with
ATHENS COMMUNITY THEATER PRESENTS
“THE NERD”
Sponsored by Top Notch Printing and Dick Pelley
Dates: Thurs. April 14
Time: Dinner 6:00PM Show 7:30PM
Fri. & Sat., April 15, 16 Time: 7:30PM
Sun., April 17
Time: 2:00PM
April 21, 22
Time: 7:30PM
April 23
Time: 2:00PM
Location: The Arts Center 320 N White Street Athens
For tickets & more info: 423.745.8781 or www.athensartscouncil.org
ATHENS TRAVELERS “CRUISE IN”
Date: Saturday, April 16 Time: 4:30PM ‘til? Rain or Shine
Location: Historic Downtown Athens
For more info: Danny Richesin (423.744.4835)
Jerry Poats (423.507.7312)
Rick Swafford (423.453.5576
JACI VELASQUEZ
Saturday, April 16
7:00PM
Athens Junior High School Auditorium
200 Keith Lane
Athens
**Tickets: $7 per person (all general admission)
SPONSORS: April Perry Randle, Citizens National Bank, Corporate Network Solutions, First Baptist Church
Life Care Center of Athens, Madison Avenue Pharmacy, Matlock Tire & Auto Repair, Universal Travel, Social
Security Advocates, TN Valley Federal Credit Union, GreenBank, Mars Hill Presbyterian Church, J103,
Uniforms for You, Clearwater Baptist Church, CONTACT Inc., Hollywood Body Spa, Crescent Sock Company
with Guest Speaker
Hosted by
SOUTHEAST BANK & TRUST
Date: Thursday, April 21 Time: 5:30PM—7:00PM
Location: 1878 South Congress Parkway, Athens
For more info: Call 423.745.0334 or www.athenschamber.org
Hosted by
DYNASTY SPAS
Date: Thursday, May 19 Time: 5:30PM—7:00PM
Location: 101 Dynasty Way, Athens
NATIONAL MOOFEST
Date: Saturday, June 4 Time: 10:00AM—7:00PM
Sunday, June 5
For more info: Call 423.746.9041 or nationalmoofest.com
Vendors:
Contact [email protected]
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LOU FERRIGNO
“THE INCREDIBLE
HULK”
Saturday, July 16
6:00PM Dinner
7:00PM Program
Athens
**Tickets:
$10—Program Only
*ROG6SRQVRUV April Perry Randle, Citizens National Bank, Corporate Network Solutions, First Baptist
6LOYHU6SRQVRUVAT&T, Athens Regional Medical Center, BenchMark Physical Therapy, Clearwater Baptist
in cooperation with
2011 OFFICERS
Chairman
Chairman Elect
Vice Chairman
Patti Greek
Connie Allen
Murray Willis
Becky Wattenbarger
David Rymer
1878 S Congress Parkway
(in the Community Room-park & enter in the back)
Connie Allen
Patti Greek
Shawn Lindsey
Marilyn Miller
David Rymer
Athens, TN 37303
Moises Contreras
Murray Willis
Carol McNutt
Jackie Newman
Becky Wattenbarger
EX-OFFICIO
Thursday, April 21, 2011
5:30PM - 7:00PM
STAFF
Rob Preston
Kay Simmons
Martha Moree
Madison Avenue
“Your Hometown Pharmacy”
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MADISONAVENUEPHARMACY RXRElLLNET
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Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Pin #1064
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Jeff Wolfenden,
R.Ph.
Jerry Trotter,
R.Ph.
President/CEO
Program Director
ATHENS LOCATIONS:
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Shona Burden
Laurie Hallenberg
Blake McCaslin
Neil Mistry
Shane Sewell
Donna Cook,
R.Ph.
Cayci Pittman,
D.Ph.
ATHENS BUSINESS
MAY 2011
VOLUME 26
A Publication
of the
Athens Area
Chamber
of Commerce
NO. 5
———————
THE
Patti Greek
IT’S ALMOST TIME FOR…
NATIONAL MOOFEST!
Friday, June 4TH - 10AM—7PM
Saturday, June 5TH - 1PM—6PM
Historic Downtown Athens
Admission $3 (children 5 & under free)
This is an exciting time of year in “The Friendly City” as we prepare
to welcome literally thousands of people to our area. Plans are well
underway for the 4th Annual National Moofest and we are anticipating
two great days for family-friendly fun!
Here is some important and helpful information that can help us, local
Athenians, make this the most successful Moofest ever while serving our
many guests, ensuring they enjoy the best time ever. Thank you to
National Moofest Chairmen Richard and Elaine Newman for providing
these helpful tips.
PARKING - We are treating this event as a huge party for the
world, and all of Athens will be the hosts and hostesses. Please park off
the main streets to leave the best parking spaces for our guests! Parking
will be available at Mayfield Dairy Farm, First Baptist Church, Tennessee
Wesleyan College, Keith Memorial United Methodist Church and Madison
Park Shopping Center with shuttles transporting guests to the downtown
festival area. Though this might not be convenient for you, please
accept it as an opportunity to showcase Athens and share this lovely city
with more tourists.
ADMISSION CHARGE - An admission charge of $3 will be charged
with children 5 and under being admitted for free. The admission
charges collected are given back to the community through various
schools and organizations. The past three years of giving back looks like
this:
2008– $11,021 given to 28 organizations
2009- $12,319 given to 47 organizations
2010- $28,686 given to 49 organizations
In closing, I’d like to invite all Chamber members to attend the next
Business After Hours, which will be hosted by Dynasty Spas located at
101 Dynasty Way from 5:30PM to 7:00PM. Please come and take
advantage of this opportunity to network with other Chamber members
while enjoying some refreshments and maybe even win a door prize! I
hope to see you there!
423-745-0334
The May Spotlight is shining on…
ATHENS TAEKWONDO PLUS
ACADEMY
505 Decatur Pike
Athens, TN 37303
423-745-4424
Moises Contreras and his staff of instructors at Athens Taekwondo Plus on
Decatur Pike have been teaching martial arts to the youth and youthful-of-heart
since 1998. Master Contreras began his training as a teenager after being
bullied for several years in his hometown of Mexico City. His original
instructor, Master Jesus Moreno, was adept at motivating his students to work
their hardest to achieve success in Taekwondo. So good was Master Moreno
that Moises was accepted on the Mexican National Team after only three
years of formal training. After Master Contreras moved to Cleveland, TN he
continued his training with Senior Master Rick Pope and also continues to train
with Grand Master Rick Hall in Chattanooga. In 2008, Master Contreras
became a United State citizen and in 2009 he was selected as one of The
Daily Post Athenian’s “20 Under 40.”
Athens Taekwondo Plus Academy
offers Taekwondo and Jiu-Jitsu classes
for preschoolers, juniors and adults.
Master Contreras wife, Nancy, is a
certified YogaFit® instructor offering
adult classes, as well. Master
Contreras and his staff of instructors
make it their purpose to instill not only a
love of “kicking and punching,” but also
the more meaningful aspects of martial
arts training.
The tenets of Taekwondo: Honor,
Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, SelfControl, Courage, Community, Strength
Humility and Knowledge are the core of
the programs. From the stretches in
the beginning of class to the games at
its conclusion, absolutely every aspect
of the class comes back to one of those
tenets.
Master Moises Contreras, Owner and
Many area school teachers can
Instructor
attest to the differences martial arts
training can make for their students. Master Contreras is often asked to visit
the local schools to demonstrate Taekwondo, teach P.E. classes and speak to
the students about the importance of doing their best in school. The skills
taught in martial arts have been proven to assist young people with their
academic studies and behavior, as well as keeping themselves and others
safe.
Master Contreras understands the importance of being involved in the
community. Athens Taekwondo Plus is a proud member of the Athens Area
Chamber of Commerce where Moises currently serves on the board of
directors. For more information about martial arts or the programs offered by
Athens Taekwondo Plus, please visit www.athenstkd.com or call 745-4424.
monthly basis.
Advent Home Learning Center, Inc.
April Perry Randle, Attorney
Athens Area Council for the Arts
Athens Regional Cancer Center
Century 21 / Robinson Realty, Inc.
Chattanooga Lookouts Baseball
Cracker Barrel
D. Mitchell Bryant, Attorney
DENSO Manufacturing Athens TN
EconoLodge of Athens
Etowah Healthcare Center
Full Circle Women’s Services
Good Faith Clinic
Greater Deliverance Ministries
H. Paul McCulley, DPM
Hideaway Diner
Hiwassee Mental Health Center
Jean Wilson, Retired
Johnson’s of Etowah
Joni P. Fortney, CPA
Kidzcare Pediatrics, LLC
Lamar Advertising
Magnolia Cleaners
Mars Hill Presbyterian Church
McMinn Regional Humane Society
Mechanical Systems, Inc.
Omega One Insurance Group, LLC
Park Crest Apartments, LLC
Plaza Electronics
Pope Law Offices
Raymond James Financial Svcs. of Athens / Camm Garrett
Restoration Counseling Services
Roto Rooter of Athens
Rymer Chiropractic
Southeast Financial Federal Credit Union
The Baby Place
The Dairy Barn
The Hill Agency
The Kitchen Shop
TN Technology Center at Athens
TN Valley Urology Center
United Service Associates
Valley Printers
Wagg N Purr Retreat, LLC
Waste Connections of Tennessee
Women at the Well
FREE SHRED DAY!!
TOURISM TALK
with
Karen Kelley, Director
May is the beginning of an eventful season for area tourism!
As many of you may know, TN Log Homes located on Decatur
Pike has graciously agreed to host the Athens Area Visitor
Center in a model home. With the expectation of the TDOT
interstate signs being placed in position the second week of
May, we are planning to open the center at that time. Many
thanks go out to those who have volunteered to assist us with
the day to day operations of the center. We look forward to a
very successful venture! Thanks, as well, to Tennessee Overhill and SE TN Tourism Association which have been active in
preparing to open the Athens Area Visitor Center.
Please make plans to attend the center’s ribbon cutting on
Friday, May 20th at 1:30PM and the center’s grand opening on
Saturday, May 21st from 11AM—1:00PM. TN Log Homes will
also be having their annual “Open House,” so please come and
bring your family to enjoy the live local radio remote, grilled hot
dogs and sweet treats. We look forward to seeing everyone at
the festivities!
We also hope to see you at National MooFest on June 4th
and 5th and at the Great Race on June 11th!
June 24, 2011
10:00AM—2:00PM
The Chamber is partnering with Ocoee Records
Management to assist our members with spring office
cleaning! Bring your important papers* and let the
professionals of Ocoee Records Management destroy
them for you onsite in the Belk Shopping Center
parking lot located on Decatur Pike in Athens.
*PAPERS INCLUDE:
DO NOT INCLUDE:
Financial records
Tax records
Medical records
Advertisements
Correspondence & Memos
Post-it notes
Computer paper
Envelopes
Faxes
Outdated business records
Credit card receipts
(small paper clips and
staples do not need to be
removed)
Newspapers, phone books
Magazines
Binders
Books
Pendaflex folders
Food or candy wrappers
Waxed paper
Napkins
Styrofoam containers
Limited to four boxes (4 cubic feet = 32 gallon bin)
per business / person.
APRIL 2011
Entrepreneurial Gardening Resource Rally
“Growing Entrepreneurs in Rural Communities”
Wednesday, May 18, 2011 8:30AM-2:30PM
McMinn County Courthouse Annex
5 South Hill Street Athens, TN 37303
Have you considered “planting” your own business?
Do you need fresh ideas to “sow” new life into your
existing business?
What kind of financial “fertilizer” do you need and
where can you obtain it?
“GROWING ENTREPRENEURS IN RURAL COMMUNITIES”
Entrepreneurial Gardening Resource Rally
Date: Wednesday, May 18 Time: 8:30AM—2:30PM
Location: McMinn County Courthouse Annex Athens
Hosted by
DYNASTY SPAS
Date: Thursday, May 19 Time: 5:30PM—7:00PM
Location: 101 Dynasty Way, Athens
NATIONAL MOOFEST
Date: Saturday, June 4 Time: 10:00AM—7:00PM
Sunday, June 5
For more info: Call 423.746.9041 or nationalmoofest.com
Vendors: Contact [email protected]
Come to this day-long seminar and get answers!
For more information call 423.745.0334
April 2011
Retail Visits - 1
with Guest Speaker
LOU FERRIGNO
“EVENING WITH THE STARS” AUDITIONS
Sponsored by Athens Community Theater
Date: Monday, June 6 Time: 7:00PM
THE GREAT RACE - LUNCH PIT STOP
Date: Saturday, June 11 Time: 11:30AM
BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS
Hosted by Smiley Family Chiropractic & Wellness Center
Date: Thursday, June 16 Time: 8:00AM—9:00AM
Location: Athens Area Chamber of Commerce 13 N Jackson Street
FREE SHRED DAY
Sponsored by Athens Chamber & Ocoee Records Management
Date: Friday, June 24 Time: 10:00AM—2:00PM
Location: Belk Shopping Center parking lot Decatur Pike Athens
To have your event announced on this calendar contact [email protected] or call 423.745.0334
“THE INCREDIBLE
HULK”
Saturday, July 16
6:00PM Dinner
7:00PM Program
Athens
**Tickets:
$10—Program Only
Gold Sponsors: April Perry Randle, Citizens National Bank, Corporate Network Solutions, First Baptist
Silver Sponsors: AT&T, Athens Regional Medical Center, BenchMark Physical Therapy, Clearwater Baptist
in cooperation with
2011 OFFICERS
Chairman
Chairman Elect
Vice Chairman
Patti Greek
Connie Allen
Murray Willis
Becky Wattenbarger
David Rymer
Connie Allen
Patti Greek
Shawn Lindsey
Marilyn Miller
David Rymer
101 Dynasty Way
Athens, TN 37303
Shona Burden
Laurie Hallenberg
Blake McCaslin
Neil Mistry
Shane Sewell
Moises Contreras
Murray Willis
Carol McNutt
Jackie Newman
Becky Wattenbarger
EX-OFFICIO
Thursday, May 19, 2011
5:30PM - 7:00PM
STAFF
Rob Preston
Kay Simmons
Martha Moree
President/CEO
Program Director
May Day
Now Taking Registrations
&OR
1125 Congress Parkway
Athens
3ATURDAY*UNEsAMPM
3UNDAY*UNEsPMPM
You are invited to participate in the
largest festival in downtown Athens.
nationalmoofest.com
423-745-5830
www.heiltrailer.com
Summer Fun
Day Camp
For more
information call
745-4904
www.
athensmcminnymca.org
ATHENS BUSINESS
JUNE 2011
VOLUME 26
A Publication
of the
Athens Area
Chamber
of Commerce
NO. 6
———————
THE
Patti Greek
423-745-0334
The June Spotlight is shining on…
TROPHY HOUSE
12 West Washington Ave.
Wow! We’re just barely into the summer season and there are
already so many opportunities for everyone to get out and enjoy
this great community in which we live! Here are just a few:
NATIONAL MOOFEST
I hope you were able to visit MooFest this past weekend. Hats
are off to Richard & Elaine Newman, the chairmen of the MooFest
executive committee and endless energy behind the entire event!
Athens is full of wonderful volunteers, but the way the Newmans
give back to this fair city is above and beyond! Please express
your appreciation to them whenever you see them. It was a hot
weekend...but a GREAT festival! Again, thanks to all the
volunteers!
THE GREAT RACE
They’re coming back! Some of you might remember this fun
event passing through Athens 11 or 12 years ago. That year
Athens was voted “Favorite Pit Stop” by the drivers. This coming
Saturday, June 11th, the race will come through Athens, once
again, and this time the drivers will be stopping for lunch. The
cars will be parked along Washington Avenue and everyone is
invited to come and show their community spirit and true
Southern hospitality from 11:00AM to 2:00PM. Bring your family
and have lunch in downtown Athens, meet the drivers, see the
cars and take photos with your favorites! It’s going to be a great
day...you don’t want to miss it!
Athens, TN 37303
Phone: 423.744.9045
The Trophy House of Athens offers a full line of trophies,
plaques, plastic signs and nametags, desk nameplates, custom
ribbons and cast bronze plaques. In addition to award and
recognition products they also offer Motorola two-way radios, as
well as filling CO2 tanks used in paintball and other applications.
Founded in 1981 by Jerry and Kathleen Carter and Zella
Campbell, The Trophy House is now owned by Stuart and Carol
McKinney who purchased the business from the Carters upon
their retirement in 1996. Stuart and Carol are both native
Athenians and McMinn County High School graduates. Stuart
was working for another retail store in Athens when he was
informed The Trophy House was for sale. He had been
dreaming of the possibility of owning his own business and The
Trophy House became the fulfillment of that dream.
“Athens / McMinn County is a wonderful place to live and
raise a family. We’ve had great support from the community
and our family,” said owner Stuart McKinney. “We look forward
to being here and serving this community for many years to
come.”
Stuart and Carol have two children; Hunter, a recent McMinn
County High School graduate, and Haley, a rising sophomore at
McMinn County High School. The McKinneys are active
members of Athens Church of Christ, and Stuart is actively
involved with the Optimist Club of Athens.
Just a reminder to Chamber members that during the months
of June, July and August we will have Business BEFORE Hours,
instead of Business After Hours. These events will be held from
8:00AM—9:00AM. If it’s a challenge for you to come to “after
hours” events, I hope you will take advantage of these “before
hours” events to network with other Chamber members and get
the word out about your company’s products and services. This
month’s event will be held at the Chamber office and hosted by
Smiley Family Chiropractic & Wellness Center. Come and have a
cup of coffee and begin your day with a relaxing chair massage.
Now that’s an offer you cannot resist! I hope to see you there!
Trophy House
Owners and Staff
Pictured from l to r:
Stuart McKinney, owner
Carol McKinney, owner
Angela Patterson
Mark McKinney
Not pictured:
James Whitener
monthly basis.
Alma Broyles
Archer’s Family Pharmacy
Arnold Miller Promotions
Ascension Life Church
Athens Driveline
Athens Electric Motor Service
Athens Women’s Clinic, PC
Avalon Hospice
BB&T
Badcock Home Furnishings
Bed Store of Athens
Bojangle’s
Buddy’s Bar-B-Q
C & D Tire Company
Choate Printing
CONTACT Helpline
Cross Creek Christian School, Inc.
Edward Jones Investments / Murray Willis
Farrell’s Top Shop
First Baptist Church of Athens
Foothills Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, PC
Goodwill Industries
Habitat for Humanity
TOURISM TALK
with
Karen Kelley
Home Instead Senior Care
J & B Bonding, LLC
Johns Manville Corporation
Joseph H. Crabtree, Jr., Attorney
Katanbaf Properties, LLC
Lambcon, Inc.
Laura Brown Lenoir
McMinn Associates, LLC
McMinn County Living Heritage Museum
McMinn County Senior Citizens, Inc.
Mid-East Tennessee Regional Fair
Mousecreek Nursery
NHC HomeCare
Personal Care Choices
Pilot Club of Athens
Price Rite of Tennessee, Inc.
Purkey’s Office Supply & Machines
Randstad
Representative John Forgety
Russell Stover Candies
Sheriff Joe Guy
Stephens Excavating
Tennessee Packaging
The Athens Area
Visitor Center
is OPEN!
The Athens Area Visitor Center is now
open to greet and assist visitors from I-75.
With the help of Tennessee Log Homes,
the Center is located in a model home,
and with the assistance of local
volunteers, we are ready to welcome
travelers and direct them to points of
interest. Our most sincere thanks goes to
these volunteers for donating their time
The Athens Area Visitor Center
to help showcase our area! If you are an
2537 Decatur Pike, Athens
Athens area resident and you have a
couple of hours a week to invest, please contact me either by email
[email protected] or by calling 745-0334.
I would also like to remind everyone to “save the
date” of Saturday, June 11th from 10AM to 2PM for
“The Great Race.” Not only will the drivers of the
vintage cars stop in downtown Athens for lunch and
to chat with everyone, there will be music and food
for all! The Athens Travelers will be acting as hosts
to “The Great Race” drivers and will also have their
antique and vintage cars showcased along the route
on Madison Avenue approaching the square. Bring
your camera!
Tennessee Valley Bone & Joint
The Bakery (home of Elegant Touch Catering
The Prissy Closet
The Swift Museum Foundation, Inc.
The Town Squire
Town & Country Apartments
Tri-County Center
Trophy House
United Way of McMinn & Meigs Counties
Universal Travel
US Cellular
WYXI Radio 1390 AM
FREE SHRED DAY!!
June 24, 2011
10:00AM—2:00PM
The Chamber is partnering with Ocoee Records
Management to assist our members with spring office
cleaning! Bring your important papers* and let the
professionals of Ocoee Records Management destroy
them for you onsite in the Belk Shopping Center
parking lot located on Decatur Pike in Athens.
*PAPERS INCLUDE:
DO NOT INCLUDE:
Financial records
Tax records
Medical records
Advertisements
Correspondence & Memos
Post-it notes
Computer paper
Envelopes
Faxes
Outdated business records
Credit card receipts
(small paper clips and
Newspapers, phone books
Magazines
Binders
Books
Pendaflex folders
Food or candy wrappers
Waxed paper
Napkins
Styrofoam containers
staples do not need to be
removed)
Limited to four boxes (4 cubic feet = 32 gallon bin)
per business / person.
JUNE 2011
May 2011
Retail Visits - 2
Our Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary organization of citizens who invest
their time and money in a community development program working together to
improve the economic, civic
THE GREAT RACE - LUNCH PIT STOP
Date: Saturday, June 11 Time: 11:30AM
Hosted by Smiley Family Chiropractic & Wellness Center
Date: Thursday, June 16 Time: 8:00AM—9:00AM
Location: Athens Area Chamber of Commerce 13 N Jackson Street
“EVENING WITH THE STARS IX”
Date: Friday, June 17 Time: 7:30PM
Location: The Arts Center 320 North White Street Athens
Active Membership in our Chamber of Commerce carries with it a
sense of accomplishment and satisfaction from the knowledge
that you are doing your share of an important job.
Although everyone in the community benefits from the work of
our Chamber of Commerce, you can accept those benefits with a
sense of pride only if you have had a part in bringing them about.
Build your business by building your community. Benefits of
membership in the Chamber include a wealth of advertising and
exposure through participation in various events, inclusion in the
Chamber website, newsletter, and networking opportunities.
For information about becoming a Chamber member, please
call us at (423) 745-0334.
with Guest Speaker
FREE SHRED DAY
Sponsored by Athens Chamber & Ocoee Records Management
Date: Friday, June 24 Time: 10:00AM—2:00PM
Location: Belk Shopping Center parking lot Decatur Pike Athens
5th ANNUAL BENEFIT DINNER
With Guest Speaker
LOU FERRIGNO aka “The Incredible Hulk”
Date: Saturday, July 16 Time: 6:00PM Dinner 7:00PM Program
Location: McMinn Co. High School 2215 S Congress Pkwy Athens
Tickets: $20 (Dinner Included) $10 (Program Only)
Cash, check, Visa, MC accepted at Athens Chamber
To order online go to evangelismtickets.com or
Call 800.519.9030 (processing fee will be included)
Hosted by Senator Mike Bell and Representative John Forgety
Date: Thursday, July 21 Time: 8:00AM—9:00AM
Location: To be determined and announced
To have your event announced on this calendar
contact [email protected] or call 423.745.0334
LOU FERRIGNO
“THE INCREDIBLE
HULK”
Saturday, July 16
6:00PM Dinner
7:00PM Program
Athens
**Tickets:
$10—Program Only
in cooperation with
2011 OFFICERS
Chairman
Chairman Elect
Vice Chairman
Patti Greek
Connie Allen
Murray Willis
Becky Wattenbarger
David Rymer
13 North Jackson Street
Athens, TN 37303
Connie Allen
Patti Greek
Shawn Lindsey
Marilyn Miller
David Rymer
Shona Burden
Laurie Hallenberg
Blake McCaslin
Neil Mistry
Shane Sewell
Moises Contreras
Murray Willis
Carol McNutt
Jackie Newman
Becky Wattenbarger
EX-OFFICIO
“BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS”
Thursday, June 16, 2011
5:30PM - 7:00PM
STAFF
Rob Preston
Kay Simmons
Martha Moree
President/CEO
Program Director
June is
Dairy Month!
886 Highway 411 • Etowah
423-263-3600
745-1962
ATHENS BUSINESS
JULY 2011
VOLUME 26
A Publication
of the
Athens Area
Chamber
of Commerce
NO. 7
———————
THE
Patti Greek
Many of you know I own a gift shop in downtown Athens.
Thankfully, because of your support, it keeps me, Shauna, Emily,
Natalie and Katie busy. Thank you!!
On the other hand, we have so many customers during this time of
year visiting our area asking what Athens has to offer. I give them a
verbal “tour” of Athens for shopping, and I share with them the area
restaurant menus that I keep in a notebook in my shop. All of us
need to remember that we need to support not just Athens, but our
Athens area neighbors, as well. If you find yourself with guests this
summer and you need ideas for entertaining them and showing-off
this area, try these places:
423-745-0334
The July Spotlight is shining on…
LEADERSHIP McMINN
CLASS OF 2011
Congratulations to the Class of 2011, the newest graduates of
Leadership McMinn, a leadership development program sponsored
by the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce. There were 26
graduates, the largest graduating class in the program’s history!
If you are interested in applying for the Class of 2012, find more
information inside on page 2.
The McMinn County Living Heritage Museum
423.745.0329
www.livingheritagemuseum.com
Current Exhibits:
“Decades of Decadence: Weddings Through the Ages”
“Appalachia in Acrylics: The Paintings of Dean Bandy”
Tennessee Overhill Heritage Association
423.263.7232
www.tennesseeoverhill.com
Serving McMinn, Polk and Monroe Counties
And don’t forget the Athens area has lots of fresh produce
available throughout the summer. What better meal than fresh
veggies and fruits from our local farmers!
Downtown Athens Farmers Market
Monday—Friday 3:00PM—7:00PM
423.744.2704
Farmers interested in selling produce should call
McMinn Agricultural Extension Office 423.745.2852
Mayfield Farm & Nursery
423.746.9859
www.mayfieldfarmandnursery.com
Market Hours: Tuesday-Friday 9:00AM-6:00PM
Saturday 9:00AM-3:00PM
Enjoy your summer in this wonderful Athens area!
LEADERSHIP McMINN
CLASS OF 2011
Front l to r: Thema McCowan (Tennessee Wesleyan College), Christina
Burrell (Woods Memorial Hospital), Teresa Womack (McMinn Senior Activity
Center), Sandy Kirby (SE TN Development District), Ashley Cole (The Daily
Post-Athenian), Paige Chamberlain (McMinn County Juvenile Services), Lee
Stallings (Athens Regional Medical Center), Spencer Knox (Heil), Brent
Mathews (Pioneer Credit Company), Tim Womac (Cross Creek Christian
School)
Middle: Sarah Kite (UT Extension Office), Carryl Weaver (TN Technology
Center at Athens), Julie Hyde (McMinn E-911), Vickie Haberbosch (Family
Home Care Services, LLC), Hope Pilkey (US Cellular), Priscilla Brannon
(Smoky Mountain Water), Shakendre Warner (Athens Federal Community
Bank), Travis Crisp (Valley Farmers Cooperative)
Back: Randy Dunlop (Optimist Club of Athens), Drew Holbrook, Class CoChairman (Citizens National Bank), Donna Burks (Family Home Care
Services, LLC), Travis Irwin (Athens Church of Christ), Courtney Bledsoe
(Life Care Center of Athens), Josh Hall, Class Co-Chairman (Encore Garden
Group), Gayle Fisher (CASA Corridor of East TN)
monthly basis.
All American Gun Shop
Amedisys Hospice, Athens
Athens Air, LLC
Athens Auto Logic
Athens Collision Center & Wrecker Service, LLC
Athens Family Practice
Athens Family Practice Walk-In Clinic
Autism Support Group of McMinn County
Auto Plus
Belk
Bowater Employees Credit Union
Bradley Square Mall
Bryan College
Caldwell Paving
Compassionate Clinical Services
Creative Foam Corporation
Dr. Eric M. Selander
E & E Manufacturing of Tennessee, LLC
Eastanallee Garage Door
Eyear Optical, Inc.
Family Adult Day Care
Family Home Care Services
Fay Portable Buildings, Inc.
Hampton Inn / Holiday Inn Express
Hollywood Body Spa
Hunter’s Coin Laundry
Jesse Contreras
Lee University
Lendmark Financial Services
Lost Sea
March of Dimes
Matlock Tire Service & Auto Repair
National MooFest
Olin Corporation
Richard Harrill & Sons Construction Co.
Ridgetop Apartments
Roberts Auto Repair
Seaton Enterprises
Snipes Towing & Service Center
Springbrook Golf & Country Club
Surgery Center of Athens, LLC
Tanasee Photography
Willow Springs Self Storage
TOURISM TALK
with
Karen Kelley
It was great to see so many people join in the fun on Saturday, June 11th
for “The Great Race”. The event brought many compliments from not only
the race staff, but also from the team members. Many positive comments
were made about our “friendly city” and how generous they found this
community. They truly enjoyed their lunch stop here...especially their lunch
from Stonehaus!
Many, many thanks to the Athens Travelers Car Club for their
assistance from audio equipment to hosting the race teams. My deepeset
thanks to Mike Ketcham, his family and Stonehaus staff for providing lunch
for the racing staff and team members, and also for the delicious food
prepared for the spectators! Thanks, also, to the Chamber diplomats that
helped with this event. A heartfelt “Thank you!” to “The Great Race”
committee (Danny Richeson, Pat
Mahery, Rick Lay, and Tommy
Wilson) who helped make this
event a successful one! Last, but
definitely not least, we appreciate
everyone who attends and takes
part in any and all Athens area
events!
Pictured left to right:
Corky Coker of Coker Tires, sponsor of
“The Great Race” and Mayor Hal Buttram
Woods Memorial Hospital
APPLICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE
FOR
LEADERSHIP McMINN
CLASS OF 2012
Leadership McMinn is a program sponsored by the
Athens Area Chamber of Commerce designed to
develop, train, motivate and recognize future leadership
among the citizens of McMinn County.
Leadership McMinn is a nine month program which
consists of once-a-month day-long sessions focused on
various sectors of the county, such as McMinn County
history, local industry, government, health services and
community involvement.
Leadership McMinn requires time and commitment,
but for meeting those requirements, the rewards to the
graduates and our community continue long after each
class is completed.
Leadership McMinn alumni have gone on to take
active roles in city and county government, on school
boards, and with civic clubs and organizations.
Are you interested in applying for Leadership McMinn’s
Class of 2012?
Call the Chamber at 423.745.0334 or pick up an
application at the Chamber (13 N Jackson Street) or
email [email protected]
JULY 2011
June 2011
Retail Visits - 2
5th ANNUAL BENEFIT DINNER
With Guest Speaker
LOU FERRIGNO aka “The Incredible Hulk”
Date: Saturday, July 16 Time: 6:00PM Dinner 7:00PM Program
Location: McMinn Co. High School 2215 S Congress Pkwy Athens
Tickets: $20 (Dinner Included) $10 (Program Only)
Cash, check, Visa, MC accepted at Athens Chamber
To order online go to evangelismtickets.com or
Call 800.519.9030 (processing fee will be included)
Hosted by Senator Mike Bell and Representative John Forgety
Date: Thursday, July 21 Time: 8:00AM—9:00AM
Location: McMinn County Courthouse Blue Room
call us at (423) 745-0334.
with Guest Speaker
5th ANNUAL WIFFLE BALL TOURNAMENT
Sponsored by McMinn County Living Heritage Museum
Date: Friday, July 29 (7PM) & Saturday, July 30 (10AM)
Location: Athens Regional Park
For more info: Call 423.745-0329 or www.livingheritagemuseum.com
ATHENS COMMUNITY THEATER
“ANNIE”
During the “Community Theater Festival
at the Clayton Center for the Arts”
Date: Friday, August 5 (7PM) & Saturday, August 6 (3PM)
Location: Clayton Center for the Arts at Maryville College
Tickets: Individual Tickets for “Annie” - $15
3-day Festival Pass (5 Shows) - $35
For tickets or more info: 865.981.8590 or www.claytonartscenter.com
423.745.8781 The Arts Center Athens, TN
Hosted by All American Gun Shop
Date: Thursday, August 18th Time: 8:00AM—9:00AM
Location: 911 N Congress Parkway Athens
LOU FERRIGNO
“THE INCREDIBLE
HULK”
Saturday, July 16
6:00PM Dinner
7:00PM Program
Athens
**Tickets:
$10 - Program Only
(dinner tickets no longer available)
Program Tickets available
by calling 745.0334
in cooperation with
STATE SENATOR
MIKE BELL
&
STATE REPRESENTATIVE
JOHN FORGETY
McMinn County Courthouse Blue Room
Athens, TN 37303
Thursday, July 21, 2011
8:00AM - 9:00AM
2011 OFFICERS
Chairman
Chairman Elect
Vice Chairman
Patti Greek
Connie Allen
Murray Willis
Becky Wattenbarger
David Rymer
Connie Allen
Patti Greek
Shawn Lindsey
Marilyn Miller
David Rymer
Shona Burden
Laurie Hallenberg
Blake McCaslin
Neil Mistry
Shane Sewell
Moises Contreras
Murray Willis
Carol McNutt
Jackie Newman
Becky Wattenbarger
EX-OFFICIO
STAFF
Rob Preston
Karen Kelley
Kay Simmons
President/CEO
Director of Tourism
Program Director
ATHENS BUSINESS
AUGUST 2011
VOLUME 26
A Publication
of the
Athens Area
Chamber
of Commerce
NO. 8
———————
THE
Patti Greek
“STUFF THE BUS”
Congratulations to everyone who helped
make this event a success, especially
everyone who donated school supplies for
the children!
********************
Welcome to Athens,
Dr. & Mrs. Harley Knowles!
Dr. Knowles is the 20th President of
Tennessee Wesleyan College. The
Knowles have been on campus “officially” since July 1st and are
learning their way around the Athens area. They are very excited
about being here and learning about our community. So, when
you see them please offer a “Friendly City” welcome to the
Knowles, and share your knowledge and favorite reasons why you
love living in Athens, TN!
********************
PUMPKINTOWN
“A Celebration of Harvest, History & Heritage”
Remember to put Pumpkintown on your calendar. It will be here
before you know it...on Saturday, October 8, 2011.
Check out Karen’s article on page 2 for more information.
********************
“BIG TIME SMALL TOWN”
2011-2012 PERFORMANCE SERIES
The season line-up for the Athens Area Council
for the Arts and The Arts Center is out!
Another great year has been planned by Ellen
Kimball and her staff. Get your season ticket
today at www.athensartscouncil.org!
423-745-0334
The August Spotlight is shining on…
202 Hicks Street, Athens
423.744.3005
www.fullcirclepregnancy.com
Full Circle Women’s Services, a non-profit pregnancy crisis center,
has been a member of the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce since
2009. Full Circle began in 1998 as a ministry of First Baptist Church of
Athens. Based on the growing needs of the community and clients, Full
Circle became a 501(c)3 organization in 2004.
Full Circle was created to help meet the emotional, physical and
spiritual needs of those facing an unplanned pregnancy. The staff and
volunteers of the center
are focused on serving
clients in three distinct
areas: Prevention,
Intervention and
Restoration.
In regard to
“Prevention,” Full
Circle’s latest program
being offered to the
community is
“OnTRAC— Healthy
Lifestyle Education.”
“On TRAC,” which
stands for Teaching,
Full Circle Staff l to r: Anne Montgomery, Director;
Teens Responsibility
and Consequences, was Stephanie Staats, Client Services Director, Debbie Crews,
OnTRAC Lead Educator, Emily Sitzler, OnTRAC Educator
launched in the spring
of 2011, offering the
abstinence based healthy lifestyle education program for the McMinn
County Schools grades 6 through 8. Full Circle was recently awarded a
matching grant from the TN Department of Health to expand the
program to include grades 6 through 12 in McMinn, Meigs and Polk
Counties.
Under “Intervention,” Full Circle continues its service to those who
are in crisis situations with unplanned pregnancies. Clients of Full
Circle are treated with the utmost love and care and provided with
accurate information about their options. Free pregnancy tests and
free referrals are offered for limited medical ultrasounds and adoption
resources, providing scared and confused parents with life-giving
options. Clients that choose to parent are enrolled in the “Earn While
You Learn” parenting skills curriculum. Each client meets individually
with a mentor who works with the client teaching
(continued on page 2)
monthly basis.
Advanced Mechanical Services
AgCredit
BenchMark Physical Therapy
Chota Outfitters, LLC
Community Link
Crye-Leike Realtors—Becky Wattenbarger
Davidson Dental Center
Dynasty Pools & Spas
Hacker Sign & Graphic Company
Hollywood Body Spa
Key Advertising, Inc.
Kiwanis Club of Athens
State Farm Insurance—Steve Songer
Tri-County Rental Property Association
U.S. Army Recruiting, Athens
Walgreen’s
Why shop at locally
owned businesses?
For every $100 spent at a locally owned
business, $68 stays in the local economy
compared to only $43 if spent at a national
chain
Local merchants spend a much larger portion
of total revenue on local labor to run the
enterprise and sell the merchandise
Local merchants keep their modest profits in
the local economy
Local merchants provide strong support to
local artists and authors, creating further local
economic impact
It is well documented that local retailers offer
much stronger support for local economies
than do national chains
Every dollar spent at an independent, local
business creates 3.5 times more local
economic benefit than dollars spent at a
national chain
Sources: Civic Economics study, Grand Rapids, MI, 2008
AIBA Economic Impact Case Study, 2002
WELCOME,
NEW
CHAMBER MEMBERS!
PAETEC
Mr. Craig Hanson
800 South Gay Street, Suite 1415
Knoxville, TN 37909
[email protected]
www.PAETEC.com
Personalized communications solutions
RENEWCO-Meadow Branch, LLC
Mr. Matthew Brink
433 County Road 166
Athens, TN 37303
mbrink@keystonerenewable
Converts landfill gas to renewable, pipeline
quality gas and delivers it into the
interstate pipeline system for sale to
renewable energy customers
(Full Circle continued from page 1)
TOURISM TALK
with
Karen Kelley
UMPKINTOWN!
Have you saved the date? Saturday, October 8th is the big day!
Pumpkintown—A Celebration of History, Harvest & Heritage
Make plans now to bring your family and friends to this annual
McMinn County event. The festival hours will be 10am—5:30pm.
A full schedule of events will follow in September, but this month I
did want to mention some upcoming festival highlights:
Heritage Quilt Show, Arts, Crafts, Farmer’s Market, Entertainment
(3 stages worth!), GREAT FOOD!, Native American Dances and
Craft Demonstrations, Children’s Activities (include face painting,
pony rides, petting zoo, bouncy houses), Climbing Wall, Doggie
Costume Contest followed by The Mutt Strutt, Mechanical Bull
Riding, Scavenger Hunt...and the list will continue next month!
A pie-baking contest has been added this year, as well!
Check out www.pumpkintownfestival.com for more
details and information.
them parenting skills to help them be the best parent they can be.
Along the way, the clients are rewarded for their dedication and
effort by earning “Mommy Money” and “Daddy Dollars,” which are
used to “purchase” items from the center’s “Blessing Closet”
stocked with diapers, wipes, baby toiletries, gently used baby
clothing, equipment and other necessities. In 2010 over 18,000
diapers were earned by Full Circle program participating clients.
The “Restoration” portion of Full Circle’s services is in the
beginning stages as the staff begins to lay the groundwork for
reaching out to those who have suffered in silence with a previous
abortion decision. Full Circle will minister through the “Forgiven
and Set Free” Bible study to reach those who have so much to gain
by finding the love and forgiveness that is available to them.
As the programs of Full Circle continue to grow, the need for
volunteers and funding grows, as well. Full Circle is pleased to
offer all services for free and exists through the generosity of
donations made by individuals, churches, businesses and
fundraising efforts. One of those fundraisers, the annual “Walk
for Life” will be held on Sunday, September 11th at 3:00pm.
Registration for the walk will begin at 2:00pm at the Market
Square Pavilion in downtown Athens. If you are interested in
helping to support the work and ministry of Full Circle Women’s
Services or would like information about becoming a volunteer,
please call the center at 423.744.3005 or email Anne Montgomery,
Executive Director at [email protected].
WATCH OUT FOR THE
KIDS…
THEY’RE BACK IN
SCHOOL!
AUGUST 2011
July 2011
Retail Visits - 2
Hosted by All American Gun Shop
Date: Thursday, August 18th Time: 8:00AM—9:00AM
Location: 911 N Congress Parkway Athens
MCMINN CO. COMMUNITY ADVISORY BOARD
Date: Wednesday, August 24th Time: 9:00AM
Location: Cleveland State Community College, Athens Campus
For more info: Call 423.728.7935 or email [email protected]
Hosted by BenchMark Physical Therapy
Date: Thursday, September 15th Time: 5:30PM—7:00PM
“DIXIE SWIM CLUB”
Dates: September 23rd-25th and September 29th-October 1st
PUMPKINTOWN
A Fall Festival Celebrating History, Heritage & Harvest
Date: Saturday, October 8th Time: 10:00AM—5:30PM
For more info: Visit www.pumpkintownfestival.com
Hosted by Matlock Tire Service & Auto Repair
Date: Thursday, October 20th Time: 5:30PM—7:00PM
Hosted by Tennessee Wesleyan College
Date: Thursday, November 17th Time: 5:30PM—7:00PM
Hosted by BB&T
Date: Thursday, December 15th Time: 5:30PM—7:00PM
call us at (423) 745-0334.
Lou Ferrigno,
“The
Incredible Hulk”
came to Athens!
Around 400 people enjoyed
hearing Lou Ferrigno speak
about how he overcame his
troubled childhood of being
bullied because of his
speech impediment due to
being rendered deaf by an
untreated ear infection. He
shared how body-building
was instrumental in his
developing a determination
to succeed by working hard
and setting goals. Guests
were given the opportunity
to ask him questions and
Mr. Ferrigno answered each
one with topics ranging
from weight-training to the
filming of “The Incredible
Hulk” television series. It
was a great evening only
made possible by the following sponsors:
GOLD: April Perry Randle, Citizens National Bank, Corporate Network Solutions,
First Baptist Church of Athens, Life Care Center of Athens, Madison Avenue
Pharmacy, Matlock Tire Service & Auto Repair, Social Security Advocates, TN
SILVER: AT&T, Athens Regional Medical Center, BenchMark Physical Therapy, Clearwater
Baptist Church, Comfort Inn, Edward Jones Investments, GreenBank, Hampton Inn/Holiday
Inn, Hollywood Body Spa, Mayfield Dairy Farms, Pascarella & Miller, CPAs, PLLC, Rural Metro
Corp., Selective Structures, LLC, Smoky Mountain Water, Toomey & Baggett Eyecare Clinic,
Woods Memorial Hospital
in cooperation with
2011 OFFICERS
Chairman
Chairman Elect
Vice Chairman
Patti Greek
Connie Allen
Murray Willis
Becky Wattenbarger
David Rymer
911 North Congress Parkway
Athens, TN 37303
Thursday, August 18, 2011
8:00AM - 9:00AM
Connie Allen
Patti Greek
Shawn Lindsey
Marilyn Miller
David Rymer
Shona Burden
Laurie Hallenberg
Blake McCaslin
Neil Mistry
Shane Sewell
Moises Contreras
Murray Willis
Carol McNutt
Jackie Newman
Becky Wattenbarger
EX-OFFICIO
STAFF
Rob Preston
Karen Kelley
Kay Simmons
President/CEO
Director of Tourism
Program Director
ATHENS BUSINESS
SEPTEMBER 2011
VOLUME 26
A Publication
of the
Athens Area
Chamber
of Commerce
NO. 9
———————
THE
Patti Greek
423-745-0334
The September Spotlight is shining
on…
EAST TN SCHOOL OF COSMETOLOGY
So...can we talk? I have always had a weight challenge. Have you?
No matter what our challenges are, we all need support to fight “the
battle of the bulge.”
Enter City of Athens Public Works Director Shawn Lindsey, the Athens
-McMinn Family YMCA, and McMinn Living Well. These folks are putting
their energies and ideas together to help McMinn County become a
healthier place to live. Here’s what’s happening…
FRUIT ON FRIDAYS…
BATTLE THE BULGE WITH BULBS!
A Pioneering Healthier Communities Project
Each Friday in September and October everyone is invited to join in
planting flower bulbs...a good, active way to spend your lunch hour! Bring a
shovel or trowel to dig with and bring some friends. A different sponsor will
provide fruit for everyone to enjoy for lunch. The bulbs were provided by
Respond with Love, an organization that gives flower bulbs to communities
that have been devastated by natural disasters. Come and take advantage
of battling the bulge, beautifying our community, enjoying time with old
friends and making new ones!
BETH MERCER, DIRECTOR
E. G. FISHER PUBLIC LIBRARY
TO RETIRE
Have you heard Beth Mercer, Director of E.G. Fisher Public Library for 33
years, will be retiring effective September 28th? Athens enjoys the
opportunities of a beautiful 14,000 square foot public library in large part
because of Beth’s love for learning and her passion for this community to be
served with books for young and old, computers, story times and book
discussions. The Friends of the Library newsletter said it well in its latest
issue, “Through her commitment to the mission of public libraries, Beth’s
unwavering dedication to serving her community has made E. G. Fisher
Public Library a centerpiece of McMinn County.” On behalf of the Chamber
board of directors and staff I would like to say, “Thank you, Beth for a job well
done! We will miss you!”
THE MARKET PARK ART FAIR
DOWNTOWN ATHENS
I must tell you how excited I was to see the Market Park Art Fair filled with
art vendors selling jewelry, bird houses and a variety of other items this past
Saturday morning! It was so nice to see these other entrepreneurs in
downtown Athens. You must come for the next fair on Saturday, October
3rd, 9:00AM—1:00PM!
2336 S Congress Parkway
Athens, TN 37303
Phone: 423.506-7752
East TN School of Cosmetology was started in 1993 in Sweetwater,
TN. Melissa Barlow took the cosmetology class and was not able to
pay payments to complete her education. She spoke with the owner
and worked out a plan that would enable her to clean floors to pay off
the remainder of her tuition. After graduation, working for some salons
and getting married, Melissa made the decision to return to school and
earn her cosmetology instructor’s license. During that time the ETSC
owner approached Melissa and asked her if she would be interested in
purchasing the school. Upon receiving a BB&T loan and with the help
of the Small Business
Administration, she became the
new owner of ETSC in 2006,
going from student to owner in
less than three years.
Melissa’s husband, Scott, lost
his job during the economic
crunch and decided to attend
ETSC to become a licensed
Esthetician. After graduation, he
worked as a skin therapist for
Scott & Melissa Barlow, owners
awhile before deciding to help
Melissa full-time with the school. Scott took an Esthetics Instructor’s
class and is now an instructor at ETSC. Melissa teaches Cosmetology
Level Two and Three, while another former student-turned-instructor,
Amanda Debity, teaches Cosmetology Level One.
ETSC is a Premiere Dermalogica Retailer that both retails and uses
their products during facials. Scott is a licensed Skin Therapist and is
Dermalogica Certified Tier 2 and is working on Tier 3 certification to
become an expert in Dermalogica.
Whether someone has aged, wrinkled, acne, rosacea, sensitive or
dry skin, eczema, or hyperpigmentation the skin professionals at ETSC
have treatments available for everyone’s skin needs. Some of the
treatments offered are microdermabrasion, acne peels, age peels, oily
skin peels, and treatments to help clients look vibrant, toned and
hydrated.
How about henna, mica or glitter tattoos? ETSC offers an assortment of
artwork. ETSC also offers perms, highlights, color and styles for hair. They
also offer both basic and spa manicures and pedicures, as well as tie-dye
nails.
ETSC has been active in the communities of Athens and Sweetwater with
National Cancer Society, Laurie’s Closet, giving free haircuts for Give-A-Kid-A(continued on page 3)
monthly basis.
Absolute Transmission & Auto Repair
Aflac - Sharon Ezell
Alan S. Brock, DDS
Athens-McMinn Family YMCA
C & H Office & School Supplies
CASA Corridor of East Tennessee
Century 21/Robinson Realty/Nancy Gilles
Charles B. Cox, MDPC
Comfort Inn
Corporate Network Solutions
Creed & Howard Transfer Company
Dixie Liner
Dynasty Pools & Spas
E. G. Fisher Public Library
Electro-Mavin
Great Smoky Mountain Council
Hydratane of Athens
JimBob Contracting, Inc.
Kiwanis Club of Athens
Madison Avenue Pharmacy
Madison Carpet Outlet
Mar-Von Termite & Pest Control Co.
Mayfield Farm & Nursery
McMinn County Schools
McMinn Medical Group, PLLC
Miller Insurance Services
Ralph Buckner Funeral Home, Etowah
Snap Fitness
SouthEast Bank & Trust
State Farm Insurance - Steve Songer
The Animal Clinic
Title Insurance Company of Athens
Tsali Notch Vineyards
Wayne’s Batteries
Our Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary organization of
citizens who invest their time and money in a community
development program working together to improve the economic, civic
Why I Should Belong to The Chamber of
Commerce?
Active Membership in our Chamber of Commerce
carries with it a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction from the knowledge that you are doing your
share of an important job.
Although everyone in the community benefits from
the work of our Chamber of Commerce, you can accept those benefits with a sense of pride only if you
have had a part in bringing them about. Build your
business by building your community. Benefits of
membership in the Chamber include a wealth of advertising and exposure through participation in various events, inclusion in the Chamber website, newsletter, and networking opportunities.
For information about becoming a Chamber
member, please call us at (423) 745-0334.
TOURISM TALK
with
Karen Kelley
PUMPKINTOWN…
A celebration of history, harvest
& heritage
Saturday, October 8th
10:00AM—5:30PM
I shared a little about Pumpkintown last month and said this month I would
give a few more specifics as to what you can expect to find when you attend
Pumpkintown in Historic Downtown Athens on Saturday, October 8th. For more
info visit www.pumpkintownfestival.com.
Here is a sampling of the enjoyable fall-festival activities for the family:
Food, Food and more Food!
Pumpkin Carving
Great Music
Historical Walking Tours
Arts & Crafts
Heritage Demonstrations
Pumpkin Pie Recipe Contest
FALL DECORATIONS
Fresh Produce & Flowers
Petting Zoo
Native American Performers
3rd Annual Quilt Show
NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS
JAVA ON THE SQUARE
Ms. Bobbie Brock
2 N White Street
Athens, TN 37303
Phone: 423.252-0123
Restaurant / Coffee Shop
THE COUNTRY PATCH
Ms. Debbie Gunn
711 S White Street
Athens, TN 37303
Phone: 423.745.6104
Restaurant
YAMATO CAFÉ, INC.
(Opening Soon)
Mr. Biao Zheng
1504 Decatur Pike
Athens, TN 37303
Phone: 423.252.8035
Japanese Restaurant
AUGUST 2011
August 2011
Retail Visits - 1
BELLS WILL BE RINGIN’
CHOIRS WILL BE SINGIN’…
EMPLOYMENT LAW SEMINAR
Sponsored by Rhea Employers Association
Date: Wednesday, September 14 Time: 8:30AM—2:00PM
Location: Tennessee Technology Center at Athens
Seminar is FREE—Reservations no later than Friday, September 9
Breakfast & Lunch provided by TN Career Center of Athens
For reservations: [email protected] or [email protected]
Hosted by BenchMark Physical Therapy
Date: Thursday, September 15th Time: 5:30PM—7:00PM
“NO vs. YES—THE BATTLE TO SUCCESS” SEMINAR
Presented by Mark Rodgers, Power Speak 101
Date: Friday, September 23 Time: 8:00AM—12:00PM
For more info: Call 423.310.3118 or powerspeak101.com
“DIXIE SWIM CLUB”
Sponsored by Dick & Sylvia Pelley, Peter & Gisela Van Ness
Dates: September 23rd-25th and September 29th-October 1st
ATHENS AREA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS
BIG TIME/SMALL TOWN SEASON OF PERFORMANCES
Presents
“THE CAPITOL STEPS”
Sponsored by The Sock Shop by Crescent
Date: Monday, September 26 Time: 7:30PM
Location: Athens City Middle School 200 Keith Lane Athens
Tickets: $25 All Seats (Series tickets also available)
PUMPKINTOWN
A Fall Festival Celebrating History, Heritage & Harvest
Date: Saturday, October 8th Time: 10:00AM—5:30PM
For more info: Visit www.pumpkintownfestival.com
2011 JIMMY LINER MEMORIAL
CHRISTMAS PARADE
“The Sights & Sounds of Christmas”
Monday, December 5th 7:00PM
Awards for floats in the following categories:
1) Business/Industry/Government
2) Civic Clubs/Organizations/Schools
3) Churches
Applications are available at
13 N Jackson Street Athens
or by calling 423.745.0334
(ETSC Spotlight continued from page 1)
Chance events, Boys & Girls Club and Kids
Connection giving free updo’s and styles.
ETSC is an active member of the Athens Area
Chamber of Commerce and supports McMinn
County High School in the Vocational
Rehabilitation school-to-work program for
students desiring to be cosmetologists. They
are also supporters of McMinn County High
School cheerleaders.
ETSC offers a Christian environment, plays
Christian music and teaches character and
ethics to each student by way of devotions
and mentorship. Scott and Melissa have
chosen to take a different approach to
teaching their students by helping them
become “salon ready” in the beauty industry.
It is their passion to teach their students to
become leaders in today’s industry.
**September is “Emergency Personnel
Month” at ETSC! All EMS personnel will
receive 20% off any service during this
month!**
Current ETSC Students with
Scott & Melissa, owners
in cooperation with
2011 OFFICERS
Chairman
Chairman Elect
Vice Chairman
Patti Greek
Connie Allen
Murray Willis
Becky Wattenbarger
David Rymer
311 North Congress Parkway, Suite 800
Athens, TN 37303
Thursday, September 15, 2011
5:30PM - 7:00PM
Come and enjoy refreshments,
networking with other Chamber members
&
door prize drawings
(bring a business card to enter)
Connie Allen
Patti Greek
Shawn Lindsey
Marilyn Miller
David Rymer
Shona Burden
Laurie Hallenberg
Blake McCaslin
Neil Mistry
Shane Sewell
Moises Contreras
Murray Willis
Carol McNutt
Jackie Newman
Becky Wattenbarger
EX-OFFICIO
STAFF
Rob Preston
Karen Kelley
Kay Simmons
President/CEO
Director of Tourism
Program Director
ATHENS BUSINESS
OCTOBER 2011
VOLUME 26
A Publication
of the
Athens Area
Chamber
of Commerce
NO. 10
———————
423-745-0334
THE
Patti Greek
We all lost an important person this past week. Not someone
many of us, if any, knew personally...but, someone who literally
touched each of our lives. Steve Jobs. What an amazing man.
To think he began his career in the family garage!
This made me think about our local Enterprise Development
Center, otherwise known as the Business Incubator project, that
the Chamber, City of Athens and McMinn County are working on
together. This is exactly why I am excited about this project.
Being a self-proprietor, it takes determination, love and support
from family and friends to have your own business...and, of
course, money. Trust me, the money and determination wage a
constant battle over which one is at the top of the pyramid of
importance in business. And if we, the community, can help new
“inventors” build their dreams and grow a business, isn’t that an
exciting challenge? I’m sure Mr. Jobs would be excited about this
project! Continue to watch and listen for when and where our local
incubator will be housed. Especially if you have always dreamed
of owning your own business...this could be the time for you to
make that dream become a reality!
Our President Barack Obama had a comment that should
make all future entrepreneurs think. He said that Jobs
“exemplified the spirit of American ingenuity. Steve was among
the greatest of American innovators—brave enough to think
differently, bold enough to believe he could change the world and
talented enough to do it.”
And as Steve Jobs was known to say, “...one more thing…”
Very soon you will begin seeing this
logo in local merchants and car
windows. The Athens Area
Chamber of Commerce, Etowah
Chamber of Commerce, City of
Athens and McMinn County have
been working for the last several
months to develop the “Shop
McMinn” campaign. It is vital for our
local economy that McMinn citizens
“Shop McMinn”. Studies have shown for every $100 spent at a
locally owned business, $68 stays in the local economy as
opposed to $43 if spent at a national chain. So…”Shop McMinn”
and make sure your tax dollars are working for YOU!
The October Spotlight is shining
on…
MIRACLE LAKE
CHRISTIAN TRAINING & COUNSELING
182 County Road 498
Etowah, TN 37331
Phone: 423-263-2583
Miracle Lake was founded by Jack Bryant, who was initially involved in an
extensive prison ministry. He began to see that the men he had ministered to
in prison often had no place to go once they were released. Often these men
were incarcerated for drug related crimes. Jack’s vision was to provide a
ministry with a mission to provide freedom through Christ to men suffering from
life-controlling addictions. Thus, Miracle Lake was established in 1978. As the
ministry grew, it began to also
provide a Christian alternative
to men from surrounding
communities who were not from
jail or prison but needed to
recover from drug and alcohol
addictions.
Miracle Lake has been
bringing hope and healing to
families throughout TN and
surrounding states for thirty one
years. It is located in Etowah,
TN on 117 acres, including an
11 acre lake. Miracle Lake is a residential program that is eight weeks in
length. It is solely supported by donations from individuals, businesses and
churches. This allows the ministry to provide affordable treatment to those
needing help who normally may not be able to afford secular treatment
programs.
In order for a man to be admitted into the program, he must complete an
application which can be requested via mail or downloaded from the website at
www.miraclelake.org. There are some preliminary lab work requirements that
need to be met, as well, prior to admission. The men that come to the program
need a financial sponsor who can help with the cost of the program. The
program’s application fee is $150 and the cost of the program is $150 per
week. Participants are provided 64 hours of classroom training, 16 hours of
individual therapy, marital counseling as needed upon request, daily meditation
and scripture study, supervised work therapy and recreational therapy.
There have been many success stories of changed lives. One such story is
of Adam, who was born to a mother who was a methamphetamine addict. He
was premature and weighed only three pounds at birth. Adam’s father spent a
number of years in prison and was a heroin addict, in fact introducing his own
son to drugs. As a child, Adam almost lost his life after being run over by a
motor home. His injuries required two years of intense physical therapy. As
an adult, he lost his house, numerous jobs and cars as a result of his drug
addiction. He had one son with whom he lost contact. A friend of Adam’s told
him about Miracle Lake, but Adam initially ignored that gesture of help. As he
became more desperate in his addiction he reconsidered his friend’s
suggestion of Miracle Lake. At that time, Adam was in a motel using drugs
with his mother and he had no money other than a quarter. He decided to
spend it on a cold drink, even though he wanted to make a phone call for help,
but did not have enough money for the call. When he put the quarter in the
(cont. on page 3)
drink machine two quarters came out...
monthly basis.
Athens Bone & Joint (Dr. C.Q. Osborn)
Bryan College
CRX Laboratories
Don Ledford Auto Park
East TN Maxillofacial & Oral Surgery
Environmental Trust Company
Fuller Enterprises
Jenkins Grille & Market
King Builders, LLC
Pam’s 2-Step
Pestaway Corporation
Rogers Group
Senior Citizens Home Assistance Svcs.
Skyridge Medical Center
Sweetwater Hospital Association
T-Tec Contracting
Valley Farmers Cooperative
Volunteer Energy Cooperative
Wal-Mart
WELCOME NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS!
BARES FAMILY CAFÉ
VERIZON WIRELESS
Ms. Pat Bare, Owner
900 Ingleside Avenue
Athens, TN 37303
Phone: 423.252.0156
Restaurant
Ms. Susan Locke, Manager
1822 Decatur Pike
Athens, TN 37303
Phone: 423.745.5046
Cellular Phone Retail Sales & Service
FAIRWEATHER FINANCIAL
Mr. Jim Fairweather, Financial Advisor
107 West North Street
Sweetwater, TN 37874
Phone: 423.337.6565
Brokerage Firm
REMEMBER…
SOUTHERN HOMES
MANAGEMENT & SALES
Ms. Amy Elkins, Owner
11 South Long Street
Athens, TN 37303
Phone: 423.744.3515
Realtor
We appreciate each
members’ continued support!
TOURISM TALK
with
Karen Kelley
Shop Chamber Members First!
Our Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary organization of citizens who
invest their time and money in a community development program working together to improve the economic, civic
What a weekend we just celebrated!! It was an honor to welcome
the U.S.S. Charles R. Ware reunion back to “The Friendly City.” To meet
and listen to the sailors and their wives’ stories was a privilege that was
shared by so many. If you have never seen the U.S.S. Charles R. Ware
DD-865 display at the McMinn County Living Heritage Museum, please go
at your earliest opportunity! It is a wonderful tribute to many great
Americans who served our country on this WWII ship!
Another event that helped to make the perfect weekend was the annual
Pumpkintown Festival! To all of those that participated to make this
year’s event such a fun-filled day...THANK YOU! I would like to thank
Pumpkintown Chairman Meredith Willson, in particular, for giving of her
time and energy to lead the Pumpkintown committee in giving our community this highly anticipated annual fall festival! The Athens area is
blessed to have such community-minded citizens. Thanks to each of
you...Meredith and the Pumpkintown committee!
If you love to see the fall colors, remember to ride the scenic Hiwassee
River Rail Adventure! Reserve your spot at www.tvrail.com or call
423.894.8028.
call us at (423) 745-0334.
SEPTEMBER 2011
September 2011
Retail Visits - 2
Hosted by Matlock Tire Service & Auto Repair
201 South Congress Parkway, Athens
Date: Thursday, October 20th Time: 5:30PM—7:00PM
MAYFIELD FARM & NURSERY
CORN MAZE / PUMPKIN PATCH
257 Highway 307, Athens
Through November 6th
Date: Tuesday—Friday by reservation only during the day
Fri.: 4PM—10PM Sat.: 10AM—10PM Sun.: 1PM—7PM
Tickets: Corn Maze $9; Pumpkin Patch $8; Combo Tkt. for both $14
Hay Ride & Grounds Tkt. $3; Pedal Cars, Cow Train, Corn Cannon
Tkts. $1; Children 2 and under FREE
For more info: Call 423.746.9859 or www.mayfieldfarmandnursery.com
MAYFIELD FARM & NURSERY
“JUDGMENT DAY” HAUNTED TRAIL
257 Highway 307, Athens
Date: October 14th-15th, 21st-22nd, 26th-31st
Time: Dark until 11:00PM (last ticket sold at 11:00PM)
Tickets: Adults $10 10 and under $8
For more info: Call 423.745.9859 or www.mayfieldfarmandnursery.com
BRUSH WITH ART PARTIES
Hosted by The Athens Arts Center
320 North White Street, Athens
Date: Fridays (Oct. 14th, Dec. 9th, Jan. 13th, Feb. 10th and March 9th)
Time: 6:00PM—9:00PM Cost: $25 per person (includes all materials)
Maximum 10 people so advanced reservations preferred.
Walk-ins will be accommodated as space permits.
ANNUAL MEDIC BLOOD DRIVE & HALLOWEEN HAUNTING
Hosted by McMinn County Living Heritage Museum
522 West Madison Avenue, Athens
Date: Friday, October 28 Time: 10AM—4PM
For more info: Call 423.745.0329 or www.livingheritagemuseum.com
HERITAGE HUSTLE 5K / 1 MILE FUN WALK
Sponsored by McMinn County Living Heritage Museum
522 West Madison Avenue, Athens
Date: Saturday, October 29 Time: 8:00AM
Divisions: 12 & under to 70 & older
For more info: Call 423.745.0329 or www.livingheritagemuseum.com
CHRISTMAS PARADE
“The Sights & Sounds of Christmas”
Awards for floats in the following categories:
3) Churches
(Miracle Lake Spotlight continued from page 1)
...just enough money to make that phone call. Adam then called his friend and
told him he was ready to seek help. His friend came within an hour and
delivered Adam to Miracle Lake. Adam’s life has been transformed and he now
holds a staff position at Miracle Lake and has reestablished contact with his son
who he now visits regularly.
Miracle Lake also continues to conduct a prison ministry. There are three
employed chaplains in each of the three classification centers across the State
of TN. These chaplains will come in contact with every inmate that is introduced
into the prison system, which is estimated to be about 6,000 inmates for 2011.
The chaplains made 12,745 inmate contacts and distributed 5, 456 Bibles in
2010. There were 12,929 Bible studies completed, over 1,400 inmates made
public professions of faith and 155 were baptized. Bible materials are
distributed to those inmates that request them.
For the last 25 years Miracle Lake has provided a weekly nursing home
ministry at Etowah Health Care Center. The students provide song and
testimony to the residents as a ministry of encouragement. Often the men of
Miracle Lake are invited to attend the services of surrounding churches to share
testimonies of how Christ has transformed their lives and to share songs of
victory. These invitations are always welcomed by Miracle Lake, as they bring
great encouragement to churches as to the power of a changed life. If anyone
is interested in applying to Miracle Lake or schedule a speaking engagement
please call 423.263.2583.
in cooperation with
2011 OFFICERS
Chairman
Chairman Elect
Vice Chairman
Patti Greek
Connie Allen
Murray Willis
Becky Wattenbarger
David Rymer
201 South Congress Parkway
Athens, TN 37303
Thursday, October 20, 2011
5:30PM - 7:00PM
networking with other Chamber members &
door prize drawings
Connie Allen
Patti Greek
Shawn Lindsey
Marilyn Miller
David Rymer
Shona Burden
Laurie Hallenberg
Blake McCaslin
Neil Mistry
Shane Sewell
Moises Contreras
Murray Willis
Carol McNutt
Jackie Newman
Becky Wattenbarger
EX-OFFICIO
STAFF
Rob Preston
Karen Kelley
Kay Simmons
President/CEO
Director of Tourism
Program Director
ATHENS BUSINESS
NOVEMBER 2011
VOLUME 26
A Publication
of the
Athens Area
Chamber
of Commerce
NO. 11
———————
423-745-0334
THE
3DWWL*UHHN
Get ready to mark your calendars...as always during a busy season of
the year, there are so many opportunities and you won’t want to miss
one!
McMinn County Living Heritage Museum Holiday House
Thursday, November 10th 6:30PM
If you have never attended, please put this on your calendar! The
event starts out with a “shopping” experience of baked goods. You have
never tasted sweet rolls like Elaine Cathcart’s! There are so many incredible breads, cakes, cookies, rolls...you name it and it is there for you
to purchase, take home and enjoy all through the holidays. After the
bake sale, you can have a bit of dinner and shop the Silent Auction.
Again, lots of fun, great food and fellowship with friends and neighbors. It
is a great night!
Old Fashioned Downtown Christmas
Friday, November 19th 5:00PM—9:00PM
This annual event is exactly like it sounds...an evening of strolling
around all of downtown. From The Arts Center to Market Place Pavilion,
with all the shops and businesses on Washington, Madison, White and
North Jackson...they will all be open for you to visit, enjoy some hot cider
or hot chocolate and get a head-start on your Christmas shopping list.
The Downtown Business Association will have carriage rides, a petting
zoo and live reindeer for your family’s enjoyment. Choirs will be caroling
on two stages, the courthouse steps and by Sherman Hall at TWC. Old
Fashioned Christmas has been an event enjoyed by families for
years...actually we believe this might be the 18th year! Now that’s a
wonderful holiday tradition!
Jazzy Little Christmas
Friday and Saturday, December 2nd and 3rd 7:30PM
This program is UNBELIEVABLE! Director Pam Thigpen does an
incredible job with each year’s show and the caliber of our local musical
talent never ceases to astound me! The theme of this year’s Jazzy Little
Christmas is “A Christmas Homecoming.” Featured musicians are Pam
Thigpen, Jennifer Kinard, Janet Martin, Jennifer Nunley, Lindsey Nunley,
Ellen Kimball, Elizabeth Thigpen, Art Kimball, Tim Frazier, Josh Bragg,
Rusty Patterson, Doug Manley, Andrew Kimball and The Tim Hughes
Quartet. My husband and I have never missed one! We actually mark it
on our calendar as soon as we get one for the next year! Trust
me...Hollywood, Las Vegas and Broadway have nothing like these talented people!
Last, but certainly not least...as many of you know, the City of Athens,
McMinn County and the Etowah and Athens Chambers of Commerce are
working together for a project we all believe in...SHOP McMINN! Not just
because the holiday season is here, but for all year. All of us depend on
each other. McMinn County is a great place to live! Let’s all support and
enjoy our local businesses and restaurants.
The November Spotlight is shining
on…
205 McMinn Avenue Athens, TN 37303
Phone: 423-745-6830
McMinn County Senior Citizens, Inc. began programs and services for senior citizens
in 1974 under the leadership of Director Charlotte Inman. Thanks to her vision and
generous support from the local community, their current facility was completed 24 years
later in the fall of 1998. With continued support from United Way, City of Athens,
McMinn County, Southeast Area Agency on Aging and Disability, and huge amount of
fundraising by the staff and members, the Center is able to provide a variety of unique
programs and services to the seniors in this community. Programs and services include,
but are not limited to the areas of health, fitness, education, nutrition, and recreation,
including day trips and overnight travel.
The hearing aid bank and SHIP Medicare counseling are two of the many beneficial
services provided by the Center, but might be considered by some as some of their “best
kept secrets.” The hearing aid bank began in 1978 with a “Right to Hear” campaign
supported by a horse show by the National Racking Horse Association; following the
recent retirement of long-time supporter Jack Wallace, this program has been continued
through a partnership with Audibel. SHIP Medicare counseling began in more recent
years and continues with the support of volunteer Debby Herbert, Executive Director
Holly Currier, more recently trained
staff members Teresa Womack, Linda
Ross, Jane Wheeler, and low income
subsidy coordinator Jean Harmon. All
seniors are encouraged to review and
make any changes to their Medicare
options before December 7th, and to
call the Center if any help is needed.
Another essential service is the
nutrition program, which provides
congregate and home delivered
meals. Staff members Dorothy Belk,
MCSC, Inc. Staff
Barbara Berger, and Verla Lockard
administer various areas of the program. Seated left to right: Linda Ross, Jane Wheeler,
Dorothy Belk, Barbara Berger
Volunteers are always needed to assist
Standing left to right: Verla Lockard, Jean
with delivery of home delivered meals in
Harmon, Teresa Womack, Shirley Dingess,
the Athens and Englewood areas.
Allen Bacon, Holly Currier (Director)
Please call the Center at 423.745.6830 if
you might be interested in volunteering!
Many private and community events are held in the Center during and after normal
business hours, many of which are coordinated by Shirley Dingess. The Senior
Community Service Employment Program also provides additional support staff
members, such as Administrative Assistant Allen Bacon. Each spring the McMinn
County Center hosts the Southeast District Tennessee Senior Olympics for eight
counties. Anyone over 50 who enjoys a bit of healthy competition and loads of fun are
encouraged to participate!
The Center’s Director Holly Currier and her staff invite anyone in McMinn County over
50 years old to join them for a facility tour anytime Monday through Friday between
7:30AM and 4:30PM. The Center includes a computer lab and exercise room, a craft
room and a billiards room. Anyone 60 years old and above is welcome to enjoy lunch
through the Center’s Nutrition Program. The Annual Membership Drive will take place in
January, but don’t wait until then to visit. In fact, Holly and her staff invite you to come
shop at the Christmas Bazaar & Craft Show on November 19th and 20th, when you can
buy beautiful wreaths, flower arrangements, pecans, ornaments, other various gifts and
delicious baked goods. For more information call the Center at 745-6830 or visit
www.mcminnseniors.com or you can visit their Facebook page.
PRQWKO\EDVLV
Chick-fil-A
Christ’s Legacy Academy
Connie Allen
Firehouse Subs
Greeks Bearing Gifts
Nancy P. Johnson
Optimist Club of Athens
Partners in Christian Media (J103)
RCIT / Rob Cruz Interpreting &
Translating
Rural Metro
Save-A-Lot
The Catering Connection
Uniforms for You, LLC
Webb Plumbing, Heating & Electric
WELCOME,
NEW CHAMBER MEMBER!
Athens Coffee
dba
DUNKIN DONUTS
Ms. Karen DeRosa, Manager
2632 Decatur Pike
Athens, TN 37303
Phone: 865.851.7316
'RQXW&RIIHH6KRS
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Have you noticed this logo on store
windows and car windows lately?
If you would like one for your store or car
window, let us know.
Help get the word out…
SHOP McMINN!
TOURISM TALK
with
.DUHQ.HOOH\
I am pleased to announce this month the forming of a new
organization in the Athens area’s hospitality (lodging/restaurants)
industry, which will offer networking opportunities within this industry
and tourism. The first meeting was held last month and one of the
topics discussed was communication of event happenings and
opportunities in McMinn County. In an effort to better inform our
communities of events coming to the Athens area, upcoming events will
be listed on the Chamber’s website, www.athenschamber.org. If you
would like to have an event posted or if you are interested in attending
future meetings, please contact me at [email protected].
With Old Fashioned Christmas on Friday, November 19th and the
Jimmy Liner Memorial Christmas Parade on Monday, December 5th, I
am looking forward to meeting and visiting with you. Please stop by
the Chamber office during Old Fashioned Christmas, as we will have a
fun activity for children and maybe a cup of warm wassail for parents!
On another note...with Thanksgiving approaching, I think this is an
appropriate time to express how thankful I am to be a part of the
Athens Area Chamber of Commerce. It is truly an honor to represent
McMinn County and all the attractions this area has to offer. Everyone
I have met since being hired has been so nice to me and has made me
feel very welcome.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
call us at (423) 745-0334.
CONGRATULATIONS,
CHERYL BRESSLER!
OCTOBER 2011
The Athens Area Chamber of Commerce and The Daily Post-Athenian
will, once again, partner to publish a magazine-style, slick-copy, full-color book spotlighting Athens.
2012 Athens Area Chamber of Commerce Guidebook—Your Guide to “The Friendly City’”
is designed to appeal to a broad base of people: newcomers, industry leaders, economic development officials,
visitors and our long-time residents. The purpose of the guidebook is to promote our community’s quality of life
and vast array of services. This will be the 10th year of the Chamber Guidebook, and the 10th year of the partnership between the Chamber and The Daily Post-Athenian to
produce this valuable information.
As an Athens Area Chamber of Commerce member, The Daily Post-Athenian would like to extend a personal
invitation for you to be a part of what promises to be a greatly anticipated annual publication. To discuss advertising opportunities and how you can achieve the highest level of impact and return on your investment, please
contact Anissa Ingram at The Daily Post-Athenian, 423.745.5664, or email [email protected].
We are confident this guidebook will prove invaluable and look forward to including you in the 2012 edition!
Hosted by Tennessee Wesleyan College
Glenn Lowe Dining Room in Sherman Fine Arts Building
Date: Thursday, November 17 Time: 5:30PM—7:00PM
OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS
Sponsored by Downtown Business Association
Date: Friday, November 19 Time: 5:00PM—9:00PM
14TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BAZAAR & CRAFT SHOW
Sponsored by McMinn County Senior Citizens, Inc.
Date: Friday, November 19 Time: 9:00AM—5:00PM
Saturday, November 20
1:00PM—5:00PM
General Christmas Shopping Hours: Mon. thru Fri. 7:30AM—4:30PM
Place: McMinn Senior Activity Center 205 McMinn Ave. Athens
JAZZY LITTLE CHRISTMAS VI
Directed by Pam Thigpen
Date: Friday and Saturday, December 2 and 3
Time: Light hors d’oeuvres, homemade desserts, cash bar - 7:00PM
Showtime - 7:30PM
2011 JIMMY LINER MEMORIAL CHRISTMAS PARADE
Sponsored by Athens Area Chamber of Commerce
Date: Monday, December 5 Time: 7:00PM
Date: Fridays (Dec. 9th, Jan. 13th, Feb. 10th and March 9th)
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(To have an event posted on this calendar, contact Kay Simmons
423.745.0334 or email [email protected])
CHRISTMAS PARADE
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Awards for floats
in the following categories:
3) Churches
email [email protected]
DEADLINE TO
REGISTER:
FRIDAY,
NOV. 18TH 4:30p.m.
in cooperation with
2011 OFFICERS
Chairman
Chairman Elect
Vice Chairman
Patti Greek
Connie Allen
Murray Willis
Becky Wattenbarger
David Rymer
Glenn Lowe Dining Room
Sherman Fine Arts Building
Thursday, November 17, 2011
5:30PM - 7:00PM
networking with other Chamber members &
door prize drawings
Connie Allen
Patti Greek
Shawn Lindsey
Marilyn Miller
David Rymer
Shona Burden
Laurie Hallenberg
Blake McCaslin
Neil Mistry
Shane Sewell
Moises Contreras
Murray Willis
Carol McNutt
Jackie Newman
Becky Wattenbarger
EX-OFFICIO
STAFF
Rob Preston
Karen Kelley
Kay Simmons
President/CEO
Director of Tourism
Program Director
For The Holidays!
Saturday,
November 19,
2011
5:00-9:00 p.m.
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Looking for unique holiday gifts?
Visit your hometown businesses
first!
Shop McMinn
ATHENS BUSINESS
DECEMBER 2011
VOLUME 26
A Publication
of the
Athens Area
Chamber
of Commerce
NO. 12
———————
423-745-0334
THE
3DWWL*UHHN
Well...here we are at the end of the year! Golly, it has gone by
quickly!
Being a retailer, the Christmas season is a fun time! We enjoy
wrapping gifts, listening to Christmas music, listening to our
customers talk about family visiting and planning events. We
especially enjoy helping customers find that perfect gift that will go
under the tree for a family member or special friend.
Even though our shop has to follow the “retail world” of
beginning the Christmas season before Thanksgiving, my
husband, Jim, and I usually do not start our Christmas season until
after Thanksgiving. This year we began our Christmas season
this past Tuesday evening by attending the Tennessee Wesleyan
College Fine Arts Department’s service of “A Festival of Lessons
and Carols” at Keith Memorial United Methodist Church. Then on
Friday, December 2nd, we attended, for the sixth year in a row,
“Jazzy Little Christmas” at The Arts Center. Both programs were
amazing! If you missed either of them, make sure you mark your
calendar next year. Believe me...the talent at both events was
incredible!
We all enjoy decorating our homes and businesses for
Christmas with trees, wreaths, lights, and family treasures. These
“treasures” are not necessarily costly...but, we consider them high
in value because they are full of memories and traditions that bring
us much joy. Decorating with hand-crafted ornaments that we
have made or received from friends or family members bring hosts
of good thoughts! There are always wonderful fragrances of pine
and cinnamon...and even cookies baking… that bring to mind
specific people and places we treasure in our hearts. My personal
favorite was my mom’s “Nuts and Bolts”...the salty snack!
Whatever your “treasures” or traditions are...remember why they
are so special to you this Christmas season and take a moment to
give thanks.
As we all know...and can tend to forget in the hustle and
bustle...this is a wonderful season because we celebrate the birth
of our Savior, Jesus Christ. When we are surrounded by our
family and friends, whether at home or a festive party, may we all
pause and remember how important this EOHVVHG event is to all of
us!
May you and your family have a very
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
The December Spotlight is
shining on…
CHRISTMAS PARADE
The Christmas season was officially ushered into Athens by
the 2011 Jimmy Liner Memorial Christmas Parade on Monday,
December 5th. There were over 60 entries in the parade and
each was ready to celebrate the season and entertain the
thousands of parade spectators that lined the parade route from
Athens City Middle School through Downtown Athens and back
to ACMS.
This event would not be possible without the support of
sponsors. Our deepest gratitude goes to each of them.
GOLD SLEIGH BELL SPONSORS
Athens Utilities Board
First Baptist Church, Athens
Madison Avenue Pharmacy
TN Valley Federal Credit Union
Citizens National Bank
Life Care Center of Athens
Matlock Tire Service
Universal Travel
SILVER SLEIGH BELL SPONSORS
Athens Federal Community Bank
Buddy and Dixie Liner
Cash Now Advance
Edward Jones, Jim Nelson
Selective Structures, LLC
Bryan and Beth Jackson
Carter Insurance Agency
Crescent Sock Company
FSG Bank
Thomas & Betts
2011 FLOAT COMPETITION WINNERS
BUSINESS/INDUSTRY/GOVERNMENT
1st Place - Life Care Center of Athens
2nd Place - McKinney Excavating
CIVIC CLUBS/ORGANZATIONS/SCHOOLS
1st Place - McMinn Career Technical Center
2nd Place - TWWB
CHURCHES
1st Place - Englewood Church of God
(parade photos on page 3)
PRQWKO\EDVLV
A&J Body Shop & Wrecker Service, Inc.
American Publishing
Ben Finch Photography
Crump, Richardson & Young, PLLC
Daugherty Insurance & Consulting Group
Encore Garden Group
Factory Connection, LLC
Guardian Home Care
Smoky Mountain Water
State Farm Insurance, Sharon Brown
Sweetwater Valley Oil Company, Inc.
Tennessee Service Company
Tennessee Wesleyan College
The Outdoor Store
The Visible Group
W. Grover Thurman, CPA
We appreciate each
member’s continued support!
WELCOME,
NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS!
ANIMAL AID, LLC
Ms. Renee Keith, Owner
213 Tellico Avenue
Athens, TN 37303
Phone: 423.453.5419
www.animalaidtn.com
Animal care for low-income individuals
McMINN ORTHOPAEDIC CLINIC
Ms. Cheryl Curtis
719 Cook Drive, Suite 104
Athens, TN 37303
Phone: 423.746.2445
www.mcminnortho.com
Sports medicine, workers’ compensation,
spinal surgery, robotic-assisted knee
replacement, and fracture care
TOURISM TALK
with
.DUHQ.HOOH\
SOUTHERN MEMORIES
Ms. Valerie Leamon, Owner
2600 Highway 11 South, Suite E
Sweetwater, TN 37874
Phone: 423.435.3296
Www.southernmemories.com
B&B, scrapbooking, quilting, jewelry making retreat
also available for showers, receptions, parties, etc...
There’s no better place
to find each gift on your Christmas list
than right here in McMinn County!
Through the next few weeks most of us will be purchasing items for
special people in our lives. So make those purchases in McMinn County!
We make a difference with every dollar we spend!
SHOP LOCAL!
By supporting local businesses, we not only fuel the local economy, but
we create and sustain jobs, as well!
Why not go a step further and invite your family and friends who live outside McMinn County to come for a day of shopping. Tell them about the
wonderful locally owned stores and restaurants they should come and
check out. Let’s also tell them about some of the local treasures we are
fortunate to have like The Living Heritage Museum, Englewood Textile
Museum, L & N Depot and Train Station, Swift Air Museum, The Arts Center, and, of course, Mayfield Dairy Farm and Visitor Center. They would
also thoroughly enjoy The Gem Theater, Sunshine Hollow, Savannah
Oaks Winery, Mouse Creek Nursery, Loch Low-Minn Dive Resort, Striker’s
Winery, Athens Regional Park and Mayfield Farm and Nursery. Yes…
some of these attractions might be closed for the winter, but they could
come back in the spring to visit those attractions!
0HUU\&KULVWPDV+DSS\1HZ<HDU
call us at (423) 745-0334.
CONGRATULATIONS,
CHERYL BRESSLER!
NOVEMBER 2011
SAVE THE DATE!
NATIONAL MOOFEST
SATURDAY, MAY 19, 2012
Downtown Athens, TN 10AM—6PM
followed by…
In Concert
STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN
7PM Tickets on sale Jan. 9, 2012
McMINN SENIOR ACTIVITY CENTER
CHRISTMAS GIFT SHOP SHOPPING HOURS
Date: Monday through Friday Time: 7:30AM—4:30PM
Location: 205 McMinn Avenue Athens
For more info: Call 423.745.6830 or www.mcminnseniors.com
2011 Jimmy Liner Memorial Christmas Parade
snapshots…
Thank you, Hackberry & Oak
Society of TWC for helping
escort children to their floats!
Pictured left to right
Kneeling: Megan Dannel, Tally
Burke, Lacee Rasar
Standing: Jared Wright (Club CoSponsor), Jessica Edwards (Club
Co-Sponsor), Thomas Barker,
Mallory Hayes, Amber Jones,
Holly Rogers
Savannah Oaks Winery presents
THE JAMES ROGERS CHRISTMAS SHOW
Date: Saturday, December 10th Time: 7:00PM
Location: Savannah Oaks Winery 1817 Delano Rd Delano
For tickets or more info: Call 423.263.2762
Athens Area Council for the Arts
Big Time/Small Town Performance Series welcomes
SAN JOSE TAIKO
Sponsored by Madison Avenue Compounding Pharmacy
Date: Tuesday, December 13th Time: 7:30PM
Location: Athens City Middle School 200 Keith Lane Athens
For tickets or more info: 423.745.8781 or www.athensartscouncil.org
Hosted by BB&T (Branch Banking & Trust)
204 West Washington Avenue, Athens
Date: Thursday, December 15th Time: 5:30PM—7:00PM
Date: Fridays (Dec. 9th, Jan. 13th, Feb. 10th and March 9th)
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THE ART OF RECYCLING EXHIBIT
Sponsored by Keep McMinn Beautiful, Citizens National Bank,
Athens Regional Medical Center, Top Notch Printing,
Mitchell and Becky Bryant, Seaton Enterprises
Date: Monday thru Friday (through Jan. 2nd) Time: 10:00AM—5:00PM
Location: The Arts Center 320 N White St Athens (Free admission)
7RKDYHDQHYHQWSRVWHGRQWKLVFDOHQGDUFRQWDFW.D\6LPPRQV
RUHPDLOND\#DWKHQVFKDPEHURUJ
Thank you, staff and friends of
TN Technology Center at Athens
for providing hot chocolate to
parade participants while they
were lining up and waiting for the
parade to begin!
Pictured left to right:
Dallas Johnson, Adrian
Lovingood, Carryl Weaver, Jim
Greek, Josh Walton, Kim Davis,
Brittany Davis, Scott Packett
Congratulations, 2011 Grand Marshal Ellen
Kimball, Director of Athens Area Council
for the Arts! Pictured below with Chris Liner,
Parade Chairman
Pictured above are some Firehouse Subs
employees and friends who walked
in the parade.
Look who
else was
at the
parade…
straight
from the
N. Pole!
in cooperation with
2011 OFFICERS
Chairman
Chairman Elect
Vice Chairman
Patti Greek
Connie Allen
Murray Willis
Becky Wattenbarger
David Rymer
204 Washington Avenue NW
Athens, TN 37303
Thursday, December 15, 2011
5:30PM - 7:00PM
Come and enjoy festive refreshments, &
spread some Christmas cheer
networking with other Chamber members, &
possibly win a door prize!
Connie Allen
Patti Greek
Shawn Lindsey
Marilyn Miller
David Rymer
Shona Burden
Laurie Hallenberg
Blake McCaslin
Neil Mistry
Shane Sewell
Moises Contreras
Murray Willis
Carol McNutt
Jackie Newman
Becky Wattenbarger
EX-OFFICIO
STAFF
Rob Preston
Karen Kelley
Kay Simmons
President/CEO
Director of Tourism
Program Director
SHOP McMINN
฀฀
฀฀
฀
฀
฀ ฀
745-1962
886 Highway 411
Etowah
423-263-3600
The
Daily
PostAthenian

2011 Newsletters (PDF format)

Transcription

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