As part of National Tourism Week, May 4-12, the Blount Partnership held its "Tourism Day" last Friday to celebrate what makes Blount County, the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, an ideal tourist destination. As part of the program, a new travel app for SmartPhones was unveiled. (See home screen to right)

 

The Blount Partnership & the Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority is beginning the process of creating the Blount Tourism Ambassadors Program for Blount County. We are eager to get input from throughout our hospitality and tourism community to help shape this important initiative. This program has promise for long-lasting impact on the region as it will enhance our visitors' experiences, build a positive brand/destination image for our region, and provide recognition to our hard-working front-line ambassadors.

 

Click this link http://tinyurl.com/BlountCounty and maximize the screen for easier viewing. Thanks for taking the survey!

 

The Smoky Mountain Highland Games are set for May 17-19 at Maryville College. This outstanding event is quite a colorful spectacle with Scottish food, athletes and outstanding musical acts.

 

The 2013 Tennessee State HOG Rally is coming to Maryville May 28-June 1 and volunteers are needed for the week-long celebrations, events and activities.

 

There are many events, activities, and places to serve during the rally week. The official website has information including the rally schedule and a request form to personalize volunteering for specific events, times, and dates.

 

If you're ready to make a commitment to help your volunteer committee make this an outstanding rally -- and enhance your Rally Experience in the process -- click on the "Volunteers" link and choose the days you would like to volunteer. The link will allow you to give contact information that will not be shared with others. Type the word CHAMBER in the space asking for Chapter Name to help identify and place Blount Chamber members wishing to volunteer.

 

The 2013 Tennessee Valley Corridor National Summit returns to Oak Ridge this year on May 29-30 at Y-12 National Security Complex's New Hope Center.

 

Hosted by Tennessee's 3rd District Congressman Chuck Fleischmann, the Summit will focus on energy, advanced manufacturing, workforce development, innovation and entrepreneurism. Key national and regional leadership will share insights at the event

 

May 14 -- Habitat for Humanity Powell Family Home Dedication
May 15 -- Chamber Ambassadors Meeting
May 16-17 -- Salvation Army Disaster Services Training
May 16 -- F.A.T. Boys Against Hunger Golf Tournament
May 17 -- Ground Breaking at future home Cades Cove Cellars
May 17 -- Blount Home Mortgage Open House/Ribbon Cutting
May 17 -- American Red Cross Heroes Breakfast
May 17 -- Free Event Planning Workshop by United Way
May 17-19 -- Smoky Mountain Highland Games
May 17-19 -- Talley Ho Inn - Studebaker Car Gathering
May 18 -- Louisville Community Day and Fun Fair
May 18 -- GSMHC Guild Annual Gala "Heartbeat of the Mountains"

May 23 -- Peanut Free Night with the Tennessee Smokies
May 24-26 -- Christyfest
May 25 -- The Palace Theather - Blue Moon Rising CD release concert

May 28-June 2 -- Tennessee H.O.G. Rally
May 30 -- Coffee Club at Camellia Trace

You can access the entire calendar here to see other community events and submit your own.

Don't forget to check out the Hot Deals brought to you from other Chamber members. Add your Hot Deal by emailing Amy to get your login info.