CLOUT Bristol, TN/VA Chamber of Commerce
September 2015 Issue 3 bristolchamber.org
STATE OF THE CITIES My Biz Is Your Biz Events
Ambassador of the Quarter
New Members
Burke, Powers & Harty Insurance www.bphagency.com 423-764-2112 1236 Volunteer Parkway Bristol, TN 37620
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PEACE OF MIND FOR YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE 1236 Volunteer Parkway | Bristol, Tennessee | 423-764-2112 | www.bphagency.com
CLOUT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
September 2015 Bristol TN/VA Chamber of Commerce
CONTENTS
Executive Committee
Chairman Jim Maxwell, Bristol Herald Courier Past Chairman Chris Lee, Bill Gatton Automotive Group Vice Chair Community Leadership Mark Byington, Necessary Oil Vice Chair Gold Club Danny Carter, BELFOR Vice Chair Business Industry & Education Clayton Dowell, Bristol Tennessee Essential Services Vice Chair Member Relations Jody Dutcher, Electro-Mechanical Corporation Vice Chair Treasurer, Finance & Administration Janice Jones, United Southeast Federal Credit Union Vice Chair Convention & Visitors Bureau John Rainero, Permatile
Directors
William Burris, III, BurWil Construction Co., Inc. Jerry Caldwell, Bristol Motor Speedway Jack Dempsey, News 5 WCYB Fox Tri-Cities Charles Earhart, Earhart Campground Mark Esposito, PennStuart Carolyn Ferrell, The Robinette Company Jessica Flagg, Eastman Ed Gniewek, Bristol Compressors International, Inc. Keisha Gould, Courtyard by Marriott Karen Hester, Cranberry Lane/The Southern Churn Jerry Kirk, Renasant Bank Bart Long, Bart Long and Associates Greg Neal, Bristol Regional Medical Center David Oakley, Strongwell Emily O’Quinn, Alpha Natural Resources Brian Ritz, BVU Authority Barbara Street, J.A. Street & Associates, Inc. Jack Woolley, Bill Gatton Automotive Group
Ex-Officio Board Members Christina Blevins, Believe in Bristol Dr. Gene Couch, Virginia Highlands Community College Tabitha Crowder, City of Bristol Virginia Rex Gearheart, Bristol Virginia Public Schools Dr. Janice Gilliam, Northeast State Community College Hon. Archie Hubbard III, Bristol Virginia Mayor Dr. Gary Lilly, Bristol Tennessee Public Schools Hon. Lea Powers, Bristol Tennessee Mayor Leah Ross, Birthplace of Country Music Bill Sorah, City of Bristol Tennessee Hon. Richard Venable, Sullivan County Mayor
Chamber Staff Beth Rhinehart, President/CEO brhinehart@bristolchamber.org Matt Bolas, Vice President/Convention & Visitors Bureau mbolas@bristolchamber.org Paula Hurt, Vice President/Finance & Administration phurt@bristolchamber.org Amy Shuttle, Vice President/Membership ashuttle@bristolchamber.org Tammy Bibee, Member Care Specialist info@bristolchamber.org Trish Buckles, Program Assistant tbuckles@bristolchamber.org Sarah Hutchinson, Major Events & Membership Coordinator shutchinson@bristolchamber.org Kimberly Leonard, Senior Director of Marketing/CVB kleonard@bristolchamber.org Kathy Lowdermilk, Keep Bristol Beautiful Director klowdermilk@bristolchamber.org Vicki Viers, Member Care Specialist frontdesk@bristolchamber.org Karen Witcher, Business & Education Director kwitcher@bristolchamber.org Lori Worley, Communications & Public Relations Director lworley@bristolchamber.org
The mission of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce is the unified voice of business advocating for a progressive, innovative and sustainable economic climate. Publisher Bristol Chamber of Commerce 423.989.4850 bristolchamber.org Photography provided by David Crigger, Bristol Herald Courier Reece Hill Photography Service Earl Neikirk, Bristol Herald Courier Andre Teague, Bristol Herald Courier Malcolm Wilson, Pix & PR Printed by Interstate Graphics, Inc. Distributed by MailWorks, Inc. Advertising Sales To purchase advertising in this publication, please contact Lori Worley at lworley@bristolchamber.org
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Chairman’s Corner
Speedway in Lights at Bristol Motor Speedway kicks off Nov. 13 this year and ends on Jan. 2, 2016. This is the 19th season for the spectacular holiday light show, one of the largest in the Southeast.
President’s Report Gold Club Members My Biz is your Biz Profiles New Member Profiles State of the Cities Social Media Impact Keep Bristol Beautiful Fields Named Ambassador of Quarter Bristol Youth Leadership LEAD Bristol! My Biz is Your Biz Photos Awards and Achievements By The Numbers Tennessee Scholars, Virginia Aims Scholarships Christmas Parade Dec. 3
September 2015
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From The Chairman
Rhinehart Ushers In New Era for Bristol Chamber of Commerce The dawning of a new age for the Bristol Chamber of Commerce began recently – actually, it occurred precisely at 8 a.m. on Monday, July 27 – the first official day on the job for our new President and CEO, Beth Rhinehart. Beth literally hit the ground running. While very familiar with the Chamber, getting to know the complexity, the processes, procedures and the people behind the scenes who get the work done could be an all-consuming task – but to throw in a calendar full of ribbon cuttings, grand openings, business after hours, First Friday Business Briefings – you’ve got a schedule that is pretty darned full. No complaints however.
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I’ve made the comment on more than one occasion while we’ve gone through our recent change in leadership… “Our Chamber is operating at a very high level of efficiency. Nothing is broken.” This fact helped make the process of searching for a new leader for our organization one that allowed the search committee, the Executive Board and me, as Board Chairman, the opportunity to focus exclusively on the process and the people – resulting in hiring one truly great CEO!
Easy to
ign up sSUMMER SPECIAL
We made a commitment when our former CEO left, that we would conduct a search and tender an offer to hire a new one in a month. A blue-ribbon search committee comprised of Chris Lee (past chairman), Jerry Caldwell, John Rainero, Jody Dutcher and I set about the task to find our leader.
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While setting a tight time frame, inclusion of stakeholders was a must. Making the process as transparent as possible, while maintaining confidentiality made the task even more challenging. Based on feedback I’ve received from folks around the community I feel proud to say, “mission accomplished.” We were indeed able to do all these things and meet our 30-day deadline. I can’t thank the committee enough for their commitment to both the process and the outcome. Everyone gave many hours of their time to help arrive at the place we are today – unanimously selecting Beth to be the leader who will take our Chamber to the next level. I also can’t thank enough the people from our community and our region who threw their hats in the ring to apply for the position. There were some very, very talented candidates who applied. When I reflect back on the past few months at the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, the visual I see is a pair of running shoes – nice, fancy Nike running shoes, laced up neatly. The uppers are a bit dirty, from racing all over the community to the numerous Chamber-sponsored activities and around the office, getting to know the lay of the land. And I see the bottoms of those sneakers – the soles are a bit worn from this running around. And I see a smile – a familiar one, of a friend and a neighbor, who has dove into her new position, giving it her all to help continue our legacy of being a Five-Star Chamber. While nothing is broken, as is the case with any business, things can always be improved –processes changed and efficiencies gained. We have found the right person to get the job done. Welcome aboard Beth! We are all proud to be members of the Bristol business community, and really glad you are on our team.
Jim Maxwell Bristol Chamber of Commerce 2015 Chairman of the Board
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September 2015
President’s Report
It’s An Exciting Time to be Part of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce Since the early 1900s, Chambers of Commerce have been portrayed as the “voice of business” and as a central, local source of business services, advocacy and information. A Chamber of Commerce is, by definition, an organization of businesses seeking to further their collective interests, while advancing their community, region, state or nation. Uniquely located at 20 Volunteer Parkway in Bristol, Tenn., on the state line, the Bristol Chamber of Commerce has the privilege of serving two Bristols and the states of Tennessee and Virginia, and a diverse portfolio of nearly 700 business members, while also serving as Bristol’s Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. We are over 100 years STRONG! In late July, I accepted the opportunity to serve as President & CEO of this outstanding organization. Being a native of this community instilled in me a great love and passion for all things Bristol. My twitter handle tells my story - @BristolForward. The Chamber is the obvious hub for promoting this “great” place to live, and I cannot think of a more exciting time to be a part of promoting Bristol as a leader across the region and in both Tennessee and Virginia. With experience in education, healthcare and government relations, I hope to strengthen our core functions and value to our members. Our Chamber focuses on several primary goals: building a Bristol that is attractive to residents, visitors and investors, promoting Bristol, advocating for a pro-business climate to ensure future prosperity,
representing a unified voice of our business community, and supporting a vibrant economy in Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee. Every new opportunity comes with its challenges. And there are several – perceived versus the “real” value we bring to our businesses and our community, growth and sustainability, two city and two state governmental bodies and tough regulatory environments, just to name a few. These are not unique to the Chamber. Some of our greatest strengths are our businesses, our people, our elected officials, our partners, and our AUTHENTICITY! The whole of a Chamber of Commerce is greater than the sum of its parts, programs, people and participants - which speaks to what a great organization we are. Our Chamber staff, Board of Directors and committed volunteers are what keep us moving forward and makes us leaders across the region. As a Chamber of Commerce, we are held to the utmost accountability of being the model business our members are working toward every day. We continually strive to be that model - demonstrating those best practices that enhance quality of life and promote a healthy business environment. And we thrive because of this great community we call Bristol. The Bristol Chamber of Commerce staff is committed to bringing the optimal “real” value that is an expectation of any membership or partnership. I am proud to be a part of this network, and I look forward to working with each of you in the coming months. I hope to hear your thoughts and ideas as we work toward a common goal. And finally, thank you to our Board of Directors, for their ongoing support and commitment to the Chamber and this community.
Beth Rhinehart President/CEO
Gold Club Members Alpha Natural Resources AtWork Personnel Services Ball Corporation Bank of Tennessee BB&T BELFOR Bell Helicopter Ben Igou State Farm Agency Bill Gatton Automotive Group Birthplace of Country Music ® Branding Iron Bristol Compressors International, Inc. Bristol Herald Courier Bristol Motor Speedway Bristol Regional Medical Center Bristol Tennessee Essential Services Burke, Powers, & Harty, Inc. BurWil Construction Company, Inc. BVU Authority
Charter Spectrum Cintas Corporation City of Bristol Tennessee City of Bristol Virginia Comfort Systems USA - Bristol The Corporate Image Courtyard by Marriott Cranberry Lane Earhart Campground Eastman Credit Union Edward Jones - Rita Kiscaden Electric Sun Tanning of Bristol, VA Ferguson Enterprises, Inc. Food City The Friendship Family of Dealerships Hilton Garden Inn Holston Medical Group, PC J.A. Street & Associates, Inc. Johnson Commercial Development
Keen Promotions KS Promotional Products Leinbach Services, Inc. Lighthouse Supply Company Mark E. Snapp & Associates Massey Electric Company Mattern & Craig Miss Virginia USA & Miss Virginia Teen USA Necessary Oil Company Neuro-Spine Solutions, P.C. News 5 WCYB/FOX Tri-Cities WEMT/ Tri-Cities CW Northeast State Community College PennStuart Pix & PR Pratt Industries Renasant Bank Sam’s Club
SBS Services Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast TN SESCO Management Consultants Shearer’s Foods Inc. Southern States Bristol Cooperative Strongwell SW Services Inc. Thompson & Litton The Summit Companies The Tombras Group The Virginian United Southeast Federal Credit Union Universal Printing, Inc. W-L Construction and Paving, Inc. Wise Recycling
September 2015
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Johnny Brusco’s 408 Pinnacle Parkway, Bristol, TN
Fresenius 2530 W. State Street, Bristol, TN
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Morrison School 220 N. Pinecrest Drive, Bristol, VA
EVENTS
Prime Communications an AT&T Authorized Retailer 2137 Pinnacle Parkway, Unit 258, Bristol, TN
Friendship Motorsports 2033 W. State Street, Bristol, VA
Fairfield Inn 3285 W. State Street, Bristol, TN
Bettis Family Dentistry 2426 Lee Highway, Suite 110, Bristol, VA
The Distressed Gentleman 505 State Street, Bristol, VA
Dominion Senior Care 425 Shelby Lane, Bristol, TN
Bristol Brewery 41 Piedmont Avenue, Bristol, VA
Vigilantes Total Mobile Car Wash Bristol, TN
September 2015
Lendmark Financial Services 3124 Lee Highway, Suite 1, Bristol, VA
Elegant Treasures 2042 Euclid Avenue, Bristol, VA
Shelbee’s Vintage Cafe 504 State Street, Bristol, TN
Cootie Brown’s 118 Volunteer Parkway, Bristol, TN
EVENTS
Alumni Hall 426 Pinnacle Parkway, Suite 318, Bristol, TN
Healing Hands Health Center 245 Midway Medical Park, Bristol, TN
Chick-fil-A at The Pinnacle 360 PInnacle Parkway, Bristol, TN
Oakmont at Gordon Park 41 Gordon Ave., Bristol, VA
September 2015
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New Member Profiles Beef Jerky Outlet
Alumni Hall Zac Colona
426 Pinnacle Parkway, Bristol, TN 37620 423.652.0231 www.alumnihall.com Shop the best University of Tennessee and Virginia Tech clothing and merchandise for game day and every day.
basq restaurant & catering
Heather Garrison & Travis Rutter
724 State Street, Bristol, TN 37620 423.573.4545 www.basqrestaurantandcatering.com Stop by for lunch daily and dinner on the weekends to experience the culinary masterpieces of Chef Rutter and check social media daily for his “flash in the pan” features.
Boot Barn
Bibee Remodeling
Joel & Tammy Bibee
Blountville, TN 37617 423.383.6939 www.facebook.com/joelbibeeremodeling Whether it is concrete, tile, hardwood floors, plumbing, painting, bathrooms, kitchens, full home remodels, or commercial, Joel brings his expertise to the job.
Camille Moseley
416 Pinnacle Parkway, Bristol, TN 37620 423.652.0310 www.bootbarn.com More than 8,000 styles of boots, jeans, shirts, hats, belts, jewelry from the brands you trust like Wrangler, Ariat, Justin, Carhartt, Dan Post, Resistol, Montana Silversmith and many more.
Julie Gobble & David Harless
412 Pinnacle Parkway, Unit 257 Bristol, TN 37620 423.573.4663 www.bristoljerky.com Using the highest quality USDA-approved product available, our store features always freshly made jerky that comes in so many varieties and tasty flavors you’ll have a hard time picking a favorite.
BrightStar Care Theresa Bright
140 Sprint Drive, Blountville, TN 37617 423.989.7827 www.brightstarcare.com/bristol Specialize in filling the gaps in service when Medicare or Hospice is unable to meet all your needs.
Elegant Treasures Boutique Chick-fil-A at The Pinnacle Josh Horner
360 Pinnacle Parkway, Bristol, TN 37620 423.573.2032 www.chickfila.com/thepinnacle You’ve seen our slogan – “Eat mor chikin” - and with our new store at The Pinnacle we’ve made it easier for you to do just that!
Farmers Insurance & Financial Services – Jamie Vance Agency Jamie Vance
1393 Volunteer Parkway, Suite 1 Bristol, TN 37620 423.217.1556 www.farmersagent.com/jvance Fully licensed to serve all of your insurance and financial planning needs, including Life, Home, Auto, Business, as well as Mutual Funds and Variable Life and Annuity products.
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September 2015
The Distressed Gentleman Gabe & Rachel Helton
505 State Street, Bristol, VA 24201 276.644.3240 www.facebook.com/distressedgentleman Home decorating store specializing in hand painted furniture. They create unique, like new, treasures out of outdated furniture.
Fresenius Medical Care
Kim Bowlin & Patti Sidock
2530 W. State Street, Bristol, TN 37620 423.764.4044 www.fmcna.com Patient Services Information: www.ultracare-dialysis.com Through its leading network of more than 2,150 dialysis facilities, Fresenius Medical Care provides renal services to hundreds of thousands of people throughout the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Brenda Mars
2042 Euclid Avenue, Bristol, VA 24201 276.644.3167 www.facebook.com/eleganttreasuresboutique A new and gently used clothing and accessories store for women and men.
Johnny Brusco’s Chuck Richani
408 Pinnacle Parkway, Bristol, TN 37620 423.573.2002 www.rrgbruscos.com Johnny Brusco’s always use the finest ingredients in their fantastic pizza, subs, salads, sandwiches, strombolis and everything else on their menu.
New Member Profiles Lendmark Financial Services
Julie Shutters 3124 Lee Highway, Suite 1, Bristol, VA 24202 276.285.8222 www.lendmarkfinancial.com An industry leader in providing “best in class” lending for personal loans, automobile loans, debt consolidation loans and merchant retail sales financing.
Mountain Empire Gymnastics Tiffany Boggs & Lisa Greene
Abingdon, VA 24212 276.356.6093 www.megymnastics@gmail.com Offering recreational classes for girls and boys ages 3 to 14. Their competition team has won Virginia State Championships.
Price Less Foods Chris Johnson
2012 Lee Highway, Bristol, VA 24201 276.466.5555 www.mypricelessfoods.com Bristol’s new way to grocery shop. No sales to chase and no special cards. Just low prices every day.
Primland Resort Julee Midden
2000 Busted Rock Road, Meadows of Dan, VA 276.222.3850 www.primland.com A 12,000-acre Blue Ridge Mountain resort, is the ultimate retreat for world-class golf, nature inspired spa treatments, refined dining and varied outdoor activities in an environment of rare natural beauty.
Sacred Cross Assembly of God
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
2222 Volunteer Parkway, Bristol, TN 37620 423.652.4692 www.sacredcrossag.org Featuring a new auditorium and sanctuary, this church has experienced tremendous growth over the last several years and its doors are open to anyone who would like to worship.
1102 17th Street South, Suite 300 Nashville, TN 37212 615.620.3733 www.stjude.org Leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other deadly diseases.
Pastor Tony Thompson
Chase Simpson
Waste Industries Kim Ewing
1803 Grayson Turnpike, Wytheville, VA 24382 423.773.3935 www.wasteindustries.com Providing the highest quality, customer-focused, cost effective & environmentally sound solutions to waste disposal.
September 2015
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Bristol, Va. Mayor Archie Hubbard and Bristol, Tenn. Mayor Lea Powers
Bristol Mayors In The Spotlight At Third Annual State of the Cities Event The 3rd Annual State of the Cities event, held Aug. 13 at the Bristol Train Station, put the mayors of Bristol, Lea Powers (Tennessee) and Archie Hubbard (Virginia), front and center as they spoke to an audience of business leaders about future plans for their respective cities. The sold-out event, hosted by the Bristol Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Bristol Tennessee Essential Services and BVU Authority, also recognized several area elected officials who advocated for and voted in support of Chamber member businesses.
“This is our time – this is Bristol’s
“We have seen Kingsport, we have seen Johnson City, we’ve seen other areas grow but this is our time,” she said. “This is our time – this is Bristol’s time and it’s important we capitalize on the energy that we have and that we continue to move forward.”
-Lea Powers - Mayor, Bristol, Tenn.
With The Pinnacle now firmly established, Powers feels that will lead to even more developments coming to the area.
time and it’s important we capitalize on the energy that we have and that we continue to move forward..”
The focal point of the event, however, was squarely on the Bristol mayors who spoke about a variety of topics. Powers talked about the growth of Bristol Tennessee and opportunities for even more expansion in the future while Hubbard concentrated on improving Bristol Virginia’s economy.
Dr. Mike Browder, Bristol Tennessee Essential Services
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September 2015
Powers pointed out that the time for waiting for Bristol to catch up growth-wise to other cities in the area was over.
“Through partnerships, our municipality is able to do what it does best and that is to cue up the private sector to take the ball and run with it,” Powers said. “Up until about three years ago, we did not have the active working relationship with our state and federal legislators that we have now. It was through such an act of the 420 (border region retail district) legislation that The Pinnacle was able to be developed. We are Don Bowman, BVU Authority
Powers also talked about how important it is that both cities continue to work together. “I’ve had people ask me ‘How do you work together…is there a rivalry,’’ she said. “We’ve tried to erase that state line in our community. It’s about beginning to use the pronouns such as we and us, rather than I and ours. We truly appreciate each other’s value and what each of us can contribute to this region. And when we’re in competition per se, it’s better to say that while we may campaign against one another for a certain thing, in the end we’re really working for all of Bristol. In working together we will accomplish so much more and be so much more successful.” Several legislators were recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce with the Spirit of Enterprise Award, including U.S. Congressman Phil Roe (Tenn.), U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander (Tenn.), U.S. Senator Bob Corker (Tenn.) and U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (Va.)
now looking at other projects and trying to determine exactly what type of legislation we would need to cue up the private sector again to be successful.” Among Hubbard’s topics was enhancing his city’s financial situation.
Tennessee Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey and Representative Jon Lundberg were honored with the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce & Industry’s Champion of Commerce Award. The Virginia Chamber of Commerce’s annual Legislative Report Card recognized Senator Bill Carrico and Delegate Israel O’Quinn for their pro business voting records. O’Quinn was also honored with the Business Advocate of the Year Award by the Virginia Chamber.
“We continue to improve, thanks
to solid management, city manager Tabitha Crowder and her staff, and the council’s vote to start on an eight-year capital build-up plan for cash.”
“We continue to improve, thanks to solid management, city manager Tabitha Crowder and her staff, and the council’s vote to start on an -Archie Hubbard - Mayor, Bristol, Va. eight-year capital build-up plan for cash,” he said. “Right now we have to borrow money to pay our bills, which is insane. It’s something we have to do so the council has decided to fix it. “It’s going to take eight years to keep it from being too burdensome for the public to have to pay for it. But we’re raising property taxes, primarily for that purpose. We’re not raising money to spend it, we’re raising money to avoid spending and start saving that $10,000 a month we’re paying in interest.” Hubbard also spoke about The Falls, which is set to open soon. “Our development of regional impact – The Falls – is finally in full swing and on time,” he said. “Phase one should be completed by late winter or early spring. Phases two and three are being prepared as we speak. Cabela’s will open Oct. 1 and other businesses will open soon thereafter.”
Chamber President and CEO Beth Rhinehart feels the State of the Cities event continues to serve as an essential role in the community. “I think it’s critical for the business leaders in the community to hear from our mayors, see exactly what’s going on and what’s on the horizon,” she said. “There are so many great things happening in both cities and I also feel it’s important for everyone to understand just how special this community of ours is and how well we all work together.”
Chamber To Host Legislative Breakfast, Legislative Reception This Fall The Bristol Chamber of Commerce will host the Southwest Virginia Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast this year, as well as a Legislative Reception at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. The Chamber’s Legislative Reception, which originated last year, is set to take place on Thursday evening, Oct. 29. The event will feature local legislators from both Tennessee and Virginia. The Southwest Virginia Chamber Legislative Breakfast, which includes Chamber members from Pulaski to Bristol, is slated to take place Monday, Nov. 16. September 2015
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Social Media Element In Promoting Bristol According to Social Media Examiner, 97 percent of marketers currently participate in social media with an eye on increasing their brand recognition while decreasing marketing costs. Those two objectives are certainly key as to why social media, particularly Facebook and Twitter, are such an important marketing component of the Bristol Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB). The Bristol CVB utilizes social media primarily to promote Bristol and engage with potential first-time visitors, as well as thousands of others who have previously been here, lived in the area, or are current residents. Following are some interesting facts about social media from HubSpot, an inbound marketing and sales platform that helps companies attract visitors and convert leads. •
92 percent of marketers agreed that social media is important for their business
•
92 percent of all marketers indicated that their social media efforts have generated more exposure for their businesses
•
80 percent of marketers indicated that their social media efforts increase traffic
•
Nearly half of those who spend at least six hours a week on social media saw a benefit of reduced marketing expenses
Orthophonic Joy: The 1927 Bristol Sessions Revisited CD Released •
More than 58 percent of marketers who have been using social media for one year or longer improved search engine rankings
•
Of those who have been using social media for at least one year, 69 percent found it useful for building a loyal fan base
With 250 million people using Facebook and another 6.5 million on Twitter, it’s a willing audience just waiting to discover Bristol and all it has to offer, thus the focus on social media.
social media marketing My Bristol Visit facebook 53,922 Pick Bristol facebook
20,491
My Bristol Visit Twitter
2,643
September 2015
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Keep Bristol Beautiful America Recycles Day is Nov. 14
The fourth annual Conservation Camp was held the first week in September at Sugar Hollow Park. More than 720 Washington County, Va. and Bristol school students attended.
America Recycles Day will take place Nov. 14 in the old Goody’s building on Euclid Ave. (next to Krystal) from 10 a.m.- noon. Electronic waste will be recycled, with the exception of television sets, along with tires and shredding. There also will be a shoe drive where new or gently used shoes will be accepted and redistributed throughout the Funds2Orgs network that helps impoverished people start, maintain and grow businesses in nations in Central America and Africa. Food City also will have a box drop for the shoe drive at the Exit 7 store throughout the weekend. Thanks to sponsors Tennessee Valley Authority, Waste Industries, Food City, Bristol Herald Courier, The City of Bristol Va. and The City of Bristol Tenn.
23rd South Holston Lake and River Cleanup Big Success The 23rd annual South Holston Lake and River Cleanup, which took place Saturday, Aug. 8, was another huge success as approximately 400 volunteers took part in the Keep Bristol Beautiful event, hauling more than 20 tons of litter from in and around the lake and river. Volunteers worked throughout the morning and then were rewarded with a post-event celebration that consisted of lunch, live music, free t-shirts and door prizes. “Our amazing volunteers and our wonderful sponsors get the credit for making this another successful event,” said Keep Bristol Beautiful Director Kathy Lowdermilk. “We had a great turnout and because of that we were able to haul truckloads of litter away, helping to keep our lake and river beautiful and inviting for everyone.” Keep Bristol Beautiful has coordinated the annual South Holston Lake & River Cleanup for 23 years. Nearly 19,000 community volunteers have participated in the cleanup throughout the years.
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September 2015
Jacob Statzer from Meadowview, Va. won the grand prize kayak donated by Mountain Sports.
Chris Fields Named Ambassador of the Quarter The Bristol Chamber of Commerce’s Ambassador of the Quarter is Chris Fields, small business manager with Verizon Wireless in Abingdon, Va. (Exit 14) For his continued exceptional representation of the Chamber, Chris was recognized during the August Friday Business Briefing breakfast, held at King University. Chris has taken part in nearly every Chamber event held in 2015, including Friday Business Briefings, Ribbon Cuttings and Business After Hour events. Chris, who has established himself as a successful, reliable representative of Verizon, provides his expertise to both Bristol, Va. and Bristol, Tenn., as well as the surrounding communities. The Ambassador of the Quarter is awarded to the highest point-earning Ambassador. Points are earned through the number of events attended, as well as the amount of courtesy calls made to other Chamber members, Chamber 101 and New Member orientation involvements, etc. The mission of the Bristol Chamber Ambassadors is to serve as an active volunteer extension of the Bristol Chamber, to cultivate, promote and maintain a positive relationship between the Bristol Chamber, its members and the community.
Chris Fields, Ambassador of the Quarter with Co-Chairs Keisha Gould and Donna Felty
2015-2016 Bristol Chamber Ambassadors
Donna Felty, (Co-Chair) King University
Keisha Gould, (Co-Chair) Courtyard by Marriott
Shelly Anderson Elwood Staffing
Janet Callahan Bristol Motor Speedway
Bobbi Carraway Mary Kay Cosmetics
Cherie Chapman King University
Carla Dunn Brookdale Bristol
Faye Elder Always For You Gift Baskets
Chris Fields Verizon Wireless
Lee Fish Wellmont Health System
Janice Gorley United SE Federal Credit Union
Kim Holden AtWork Personnel Services
Autumn Lyon Bristol Brewery
Chris Massie Stryker Martial Arts Academy
Edna Moore Highlands Union Bank
Karen Morenings Universal Printing, Inc.
Dianne Necessary Lic. Aesthetic Instructor
Justin Nidiffer Eastman Credit Union
Melissa Plymal Hilton Garden Inn
Kelly Robinson Price & Ramey Insurance
Helen Scott Healing Hands Health Center
Shelly Shaffer Quaker Steak & Lube
Cami Vance AtWork Personnel Services
Michael Webb King University
September 2015
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Members of this year’s class
BRISTOL YOUTH LEADERSHIP CLASS OF 2015-2016 Gracyn Blackmore – John Battle John Blair – Tennessee High Kailey Blaylock – John Battle Amber Bogle – Sullivan Central Kailee Brumfield – Sullivan East Morgan Buchanan – Sullivan East Brown Cooper, IV – Virginia High Matthew Dean – Virginia High Amanda Gilbert – Sullivan East Annastasia Grecu – Sullivan East Abby Hagy – Sullivan East Caitlin Hale – Sullivan East Brooke Hatcher – Sullivan Central Andrew Istfan – Tennessee High Taylor Jackson – Tennessee High Madeleine Jackson – Tennessee High Maggie Johnson – Tennessee High Josiah Kangas – Tennessee High Brennon Kimbler – John Battle Eric Lendzioszek – Sullivan East Matthew Long – Sullivan Central Jace Lyon – Sullivan East Amanda Maine – Sullivan Central Madison Marshall – Virginia High Elizabeth Massengill – Tennessee High
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September 2015
Morgan Matney – Tennessee High Sylvia Meredith – Home school Aidan Moore – Home school Tan Overbay – Tennessee High Tanner Poore – Virginia High Madalin Scott – Sullivan Central Nathan Sikora – John Battle Kyle Simcox – Sullivan Central Jared Stanley – Abingdon High Hudson Strandbridge – Sullivan East Erin Sullivan – Abingdon High Hugh Tagert – Tennessee High Kennedy Tester – Tennessee High McKayla Torbett – Sullivan East Kristian Wilson – Virginia High BYL ALUMS Will Carr – Sullivan Central Daphne Hawkins – John Battle Ben McQueary – John Battle Maggie Melton – John Battle Will Price – John Battle Kira Sikora – Cornerstone Christian Emily Stinson – Abingdon High Elissa Tester – John Battle
Bristol Youth Leadership Class Boast 40 Students From Area Schools A total of 40 students are taking part in this year’s Bristol Youth Leadership (BYL) class, which kicked off with an overnight retreat at Doe River Gorge in September. Students from Tennessee High, Virginia High, John Battle, Sullivan Central, Sullivan East, Tri-Cities Christian and Cornerstone Christian are part of this year’s class. Designed to teach the students valuable leadership skills, BYL is a seventh-month program in which area high school sophomores and juniors are empowered to become trustees of the Bristol community. Throughout the program, students learn a variety of valuable leadership skills including communication, community awareness, and business ethics. The program also provides training in the area of personal development, skills training, volunteer opportunities and team building. The students receive two college credits from King University upon completion of the program.
New Sessions Added To 2015-2016 LEAD Bristol! Classes With nearly 900 graduates over 30 years, the award-winning LEAD Bristol! program is a proven commodity utilized by numerous companies and organizations whose goal is to aid their employees in becoming leaders. The nine-month training course, a Bristol Chamber of Commerce program, is available to all area businesses and focuses on providing skills that are essential to leadership development. The program focuses on building leadership skills and gives participants valuable networking opportunities with others in the class which results in making new business contacts, as well as long-lasting friendships. Several new components have been added this year – “Give Them the Pickle” customer service training, a Governmental segment and changing the Economic Development session to allow the class to play the role of the
government entities that make decisions about economic development.
In partnership with local area colleges and universities, professors and other professional personnel take part in the classes and provide expertise in areas such as business ethics, communications, diversity, and many other topics crucial in building leadership abilities. SESCO Management Consultants, a nationally recognized human resources agency, lends its services to the program and is a key partner. Participants will learn a variety of new skills that will facilitate growth in their careers and business relationships and they will be involved in a service project as well. These projects, which class members must plan and execute, are solicited from local agencies, governmental entities and non-profit organizations each year. While the projects make a significant impact on the community, they invariably make quite an impression on the participants too. Class sessions are from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. one day each month, beginning with an overnight retreat in September and concluding in May with graduation.
LEAD Bristol! Sponsors CORPORATE SPONSOR: Program Sponsors: Bank of Tennessee, Bristol Herald Courier, Bristol Motor Speedway, Comfort Systems USA Bristol, and First Tennessee Foundation
2015-2016 LEAD Bristol! Class
Lark Adams – VIPSEEN Magazine Mike Armstrong – City of Bristol Virginia Fire Dept John Austin – City of Bristol Virginia Police Dept Sheena Barnett – Eastman Leslie Blevins – Bristol Tennessee Essential Services Tracey Bryan – Bristol Herald Courier Bobbi Carraway – Mary Kay Cosmetics Kim Davis – Birthplace of Country Music Tammy Deel – Bristol Compressors Tommy Dowdy – Bristol Herald Courier Carla Dunn – Brookdale Bristol Matthew Eades – Highlands Union Bank Melissa Harrison – Strongwell Sheri Hiter – Elliott, Lawson & Minor, P.C. Kim Holden – Atwork Personnel Services Sherie Huggins – Electro Motor & Metal Castings Jason Johnson – Food City - Bonham Road John Jones – BVU Authority Shakira Jordan – Courtyard by Marriott Christopher Kibler – Bristol Tennessee Essential Services Amy Kimani – Bristol Public Library Jennifer McCrosky – Bristol Regional Medical Center David McGlamery - City of Bristol Tennessee Fire Dept Lynn Osborne – Eastman Credit Union Melissa Plymal – Hilton Garden Inn Becky Ramsey – Strategic Placement Group, Inc. Bradley Robertson – Trustpoint Insurance, LLC Justin Rogers – Bristol Motor Speedway Jill Salyers – U.S. Senator Bob Corker’s Office Deanna Sanders – Brown, Edwards & Company, LLP Julie Schwab – SpeedPro Imaging Shelly Shaffer – Quaker Steak & Lube Kristi Sharrett – Highlands Union Bank Alicia Smeltzer – Virginia Highlands Community College Jack Spurgeon – City of Bristol Tennessee Fire Dept Jennifer Thacker – Northeast State Community College Jamie Vaughn – Food City - Euclid Avenue
Contributing Sponsors: Eastman Chemical Company, Food City, KS Promotional Products, Pepsi and SESCO Management Consultants September 2015
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FRIDAY BUSINESS BRIEFING Eric Fields
The Summit Companies
Pete Holler
SBS Services / The Summit Companies
June 2015 New Members
Courtney Kissack
St. Jude Children’s Hospital
August 2015 New Members 18
September 2015
TIffany Ramsey Goforth St. Jude Patient Parent
Rebecca Tamer
St. Jude Children’s Hospital
Awards and Achievements Strongwell a National Finalist for Award
Eastman Credit Union Ranked 23rd
The Trowbridge Award recognizes manufacturers with 1,000 or fewer employees that “have a demonstrated commitment to community service, reflected by company policy, resources and employee participation as well as…a strong relationship with the (National Association of Manufacturers).”
Holston River Brewing Company Named Best in Tennessee
Bristol, Virginia’s Strongwell Corporation was recently notified by the National Association of Manufacturers that it was a top finalist for the prestigious Sandy Trowbridge Award for Excellence in Community Service.
Strongwell was honored as a Trowbridge Award finalist due to its role as an active part of the communities in which it does business.
Bristol Tennessee’s City Utility Division Wins Award of Excellence
Bristol Tennessee’s Utility Division was recently recognized by the Kentucky/Tennessee Section of the American Water Works Association for outstanding water distribution system operation. The Award of Excellence was presented to staff at the Water Professional Conference in Covington, Ky. The award is given to systems that have demonstrated exceptional performance in meeting all Federal Drinking Water Standards and have an overall initiative to excel at producing safe water for its customers.
Deposit Accounts 2015 edition of the Top 200 Healthiest Credit Unions in America recently ranked Eastman Credit Union 23rd in the country. ECU was named to the list for the second consecutive year (one of only 66 credit unions to do so out of the 6,655 total federally insured credit unions).
Scoutology.com, a website dedicated to locating the best food, drinks, shopping and music in cities across the country, recently named Holston River Brewing Company the Best Beer Maker in the state of Tennessee. The Tennessee Beer Brawl was a battle of the local breweries as Bristol’s Holston River, was in the finals against Johnson City Brewing. Holston River garnered 52 percent of the vote to win the prestigious title.
Wall Street Journal Mentions Healing Hands
Bristol, Tennessee’s Healing Hands Health Care Center was recently mentioned in an article on health care in the Wall Street Journal. Sarah Phillips, the director of development with Healing Hands, said the Journal, the largest newspaper in the country with nearly 2.5 million subscribers, was interested in the effects of the Affordable Care Act in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.
September 2015
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Originally, the sign was erected on the Interstate Hardware Company building near the railroad tracks off of State Street.
The Bristol Gas and Electric Co. donated the electric sign to the cities in 1910.
When erected, the sign was deemed to be one of the largest in the nation.
Originally the sign read: “PUSH! THAT’S BRISTOL!” And from time to time some of the lights would go out on the sign and it would read: “PU__! THAT’S BRISTOL!” or “__SH! THAT’S BRISTOL!”
In 1921, the Bristol Advertising Club started a contest, asking people for a new slogan for the sign. The winning slogan was “A GOOD PLACE TO LIVE.” The second most popular was “THE BEST PLACE TO LIVE!” The club chose the first because members felt it was “modest in claim, and truthful in statement.” 20
September 2015
In 1915, the Bristol Sign was moved to its current location, rising 25 feet over the state line of Tennessee and Virginia.
In 1988, the sign was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, the sign is maintained by both Bristol, Tenn., and Bristol, Va. There are a total of 1,332 bulbs in the sign.
Tennessee Scholars Program Prepares Students For Higher Education, Job Market Tennessee Scholars are high school students who have completed a specific curriculum that provides a high level of skills and readiness for the labor market or higher education. Tennessee Scholar graduates are assured that their advanced education will better prepare them for the workforce, enable them to compete for meaningful jobs, and make them better prepared to pursue advanced technical education or university study. Many colleges and technical programs consider Tennessee Scholars for last dollar scholarships and students who participate typically score three points higher on the SAT college entrance exam. Requirements students must meet include: • 4 math courses (Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and one higher level math ) • 3 laboratory science courses (Biology and Chemistry required – Physics preferred for 3rd course) • 2 Foreign Language courses in the same language • 1 Fine Arts Class • 2 additional credits selected from: Career Technical Education, Fine Arts, and/or AP, Int. Baccalaureate, or online courses not used for basic requirements • 3 Social Studies (Must meet requirements of the Tennessee Diploma Project) • Personal Finance as required by the State of Tennessee • Must meet State requirements for health and/or physical education Workforce requirements are: • 80 hours volunteer service • 95% attendance • No out of school suspensions
Mentors Needed For Tennessee Promise Students Tennessee Promise, which gives all graduating high school seniors in Tennessee the ability to attend a community college or technical institute for two years, tuition free, is an amazing opportunity for the state’s youth. Both a scholarship and mentoring program that focuses on increasing the number of students that attend college in Tennessee, it provides students a last-dollar scholarship, meaning the scholarship covers tuition and fees not covered by the Pell grant, the HOPE scholarship, or state student assistance funds. The scholarship may be used at any of the state’s 13 community colleges, 27 colleges of applied technology or other eligible institution offering as associate’s degree program. Tennessee Achieves has partnered with Tennessee Promise to provide mentors to the students and that’s where help is needed in the form of mentors. Mentors volunteer between 10-15 hours over the course of the year to help students navigate the college admissions process. Mentors, who must be at least 21 years old, are required to complete an online application, pass a background check, attend a training session where they will receive a handbook and tips on mentoring their students, and meet with the students at their school twice during their senior year. Jim Maxwell, publisher of the Bristol Herald Courier, is a mentor and believes strongly in the program. “Very few things in life provide greater satisfaction than helping others” he said. “Helping young people, our future leaders, recognize opportunities and see them start down a path to success is what I experienced in my first year as a Tennessee Promise Mentor. When you put the time you spend in communicating with your mentees in perspective, the return on investment is phenomenal.” “I strongly encourage others to consider serving as a Tennessee Promise Mentor – it’s an investment in our future.” To learn more about the program or to apply to become a Tennessee Promise Mentor, please visit www.tnachieves.org
VHCC AIMS Scholarship Available To Virginia Students Students at area Virginia high schools who participate in the Citizen’s In Action (CIA) program are eligible for the VHCC Appalachian Inter-Mountain Scholars (AIMS) Higher Scholarship. If students meet the criteria for the CIA program they will earn the AIMS Scholarship, which allows them to attend Virginia Highlands Community College at no cost for two years. Criteria students must meet include: • 25 hours of volunteer service each year for 3 out of the 4 years in high school (must participate the senior year) • Maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA • Have no more than 8 days of excused absences • No unexcused absences or out of school suspensions September 2015
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Ramsey, Carrico To Serve As Grand Marshals For Dec. 3 Christmas Parade
2909 N. Roan St. • Johnson City, TN 423-282-2493 www.billgattonacura.com
2909 N. Roan St. • Johnson City, TN 423-282-2493 www.billgattonmazda.com 235 Century Blvd. • Bristol, TN 423-989-6700 www.billgattonmazda.net
Tennessee Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey and Virginia Sen. Bill Carrico will serve as grand marshals for this year’s Downtown Bristol Christmas Parade, set to take place Dec. 3. Ramsey and Carrico will help Bristol usher in the holiday season, riding on the lead float in the long-running parade, one of Bristol’s most beloved and anticipated celebrations. The parade, which starts on Bob Morrison Blvd. and travels down State Street to the historic Bristol Train Station, brings out thousands of area residents who can’t wait to see the beautifully decorated floats, as well as the jolly old man himself. Yes, that’s right, Santa will be part of the parade too, watching to see who’s been naughty or nice!
235 Century Blvd. • Bristol, TN 423-989-6700 www.billgattonnissan.net
1000 W. State St • Bristol, TN 423-764-5151 www.billgatton.com
Local businesses, civic and volunteer organizations, church groups, bands, schools, neighborhood groups and beauty contestants are all invited to participate in the parade, which starts at 7 p.m. Lineup will be at 5 p.m. near the Bristol Herald Courier on Morrison Blvd. There is a cost associated with entering floats/vehicles (starting at $25 per vehicle). Please note that the deadline for entry is Friday, Nov. 13. We look forward to seeing you there as we celebrate the holiday season in Bristol! For more information and an application, please call 423-989-4850 or visit www.bristolchamber.org
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September 2015
1000 W. State St • Bristol, TN 423-764-5151 www.billgatton.com
2130 Volunteer Parkway • Bristol, TN 423-968-5111 www.billgattonhonda.com
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