News from the Chamber:

Rick Meredith spoke at Chamber’s Annual Meeting and Banquet

Rick Meredith, Assistant Commissioner Community Development Division TDECD spoke at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting and Banquet which was held on February 5, 2010. He shared anecdotal examples of similar communities and the importance of planning, visioning and taking action steps to progress the interests of the county. Attention was drawn to the need for good leadership and the benefit of Youth Leadership and Adult Leadership participation in building sustainable economic growth. Education lags in Tennessee in achievement, so the county must take a proactive rule in promoting educational initiatives. Rick congratulated the County on its advancements, and introduced the visioning survey that the Chamber will be conducting in the upcoming weeks. He urged the attendees to participate in this survey and thanked them for their support of the Chamber

The 2010 incoming Chamber Board

The 2010 incoming Chamber Board members and officers were introduced at the Banquet. Joining the Board for 2010 are Everett Atkins, Tonya Atkins, Mike Churchill, Doc Williams and William Von Schipmann. The 2010 Officers are: Chair- Wayne Goforth, Vice Chair- Ron Erickson, Chair-Elect- Sheila Buckner, Secretary- Rebecca Mills, and Treasurer- Judy Roe.

Mr. Burke was presented with a plaque

Board Chair, Steve Thompson recognized Dwain Burke for his years of service to the Chamber. Mr. Burke was presented with plaque to honor his commitment to the community.

Broad Band grant money

The Chamber will be re-applying for Broad Band grant money to bring more service to the county. For cycle 2, the application deadline is March 15, 2010.

Construction continues

Construction continues on water and sewer lines in the city of Maynardville. The city manager, Jack Rhyne, is committed to restoring properties that have had driveways and yards disturbed by the work. Please contact Jack if your property requires attention due to this construction.

Great America Clean

Great America Clean-Ups and Keep Union County Beautiful- KUBC have set 3 dates for community clean-ups:

• 3/20- Meet at 10A at the Sharps Chapel Community Center. The group will be picking up Sharps Chapel Road, Tanglewood Road and the shoreline in this area. Sunset Bay Homeowners, Norris Shores Homeowners and Lakeview Marina will also be partners for this event.
• 4/17- Meet at Beach Island Resort Marina at 10A. The group will be picking up along 33 Bridge and the shoreline visible from the bridge and Marina. Beach Island Marina will partner with KUBC.
• 5/2- Meet at Big Ridge State Park at 9A. The group will be picking up along Highway 61 and the areas around Big Ridge.

All volunteers are welcome and needed! For more information, contact KUBC or the Chamber at 992-2811

White Lightning Festival Seeking Local Talent

White Lightning Festival Seeking Local Talent for Idol Contest. Local Musician/Manager/Producer Michael McMeel & Twelve Time Emmy-Winning Producer Cliff Downs Among Celebrity Judges

The White Lightning Festival will host an Idol Contest for local bands/singers/songwriters at Claiborne High School’s Auditorium on Saturday, March 27th, at 10:00 a.m.-? The contest will feature the Tri-State’s finest, all competing for a spot on White Lightning Festival’s Tri-State Rebels Stage on June 26, 2010 and other prizes. Idol Contestants will perform before a panel of professional judges who will choose the performance roster on festival day. Special guest judges currently include Michael McMeel and Cliff Downs. McMeel, a resident of Claiborne County, has worked with groups such as Three Dog Night, the players of Rufus and Chaka Kahn, and countless others. For more information, contact the Chamber at 992-2811