 It looks like we are entering the dog days of Summer as the oppressive heat and humidity is on tap for the next few weeks. So, to beat the heat, check out the chamber and community events in the upcoming weeks. GET YOUR PIGS AND POLITICS TICKETS  The second annual Pigs and Politics thank you to the elected officials returns to Alumni Gym at Maryville College on Thursday, Aug. 8 from 4:30-7:30 p.m. Sponsored by Calhoun's, this afternoon of fun, BBQ, beer and networking offers our elected leaders a chance to be more casual. There will be two dunking booths to double the fun of seeing your favorite community leader get wet while collecting "tips" for their favorite non-profit organization. Tickets are $15 for Chamber members and available by calling 865.983.2241 or online. LOCAL LEGISLATIVE BRIEFINGS Local Government leaders will discuss priorities, budget challenges and their vision for the future for your community. The briefings provide an excellent opportunity to strengthen and build new partnerships between members of the business community and local government officials. RSVP to attend the briefing of your choice to this email or vjones@blountpartnership.com. There is no cost to attend for chamber members.
Schedule: Friday, July 19 - City of Maryville - City Manager, Greg McClain Friday, August 30 - City of Alcoa - City Manager, Mark Johnson All briefings will be held at the Blount County Chamber, 201 S. Washington Street, Maryville, at 8:00 a.m. BLOUNT COUNTY UNITED WAY GAS DAY Is your company interested in supporting United Way Gas Day but can't volunteer at a station? Gas Day volunteers now have the opportunity to double tips collected at this year's event, and they need your help! Money raised assists more than 50,000 Blount County residents every year. For more information on being a tip match sponsor, please visit www.liveunitedblount.org or call 865-982-2251 ext. 14. This year's Gas Day will be held on Friday, July 19. HEATHER RIPLEY TO PRESENT AT "LUNCH BOX SERIES" Heather Ripley of Ripley PR, LLC, is scheduled to be the guest presenter at the Aug. 10 Lunch Box Series hosted at the Chamber from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Her topic is " Connect. Engage. Expand - Integrating Social Engagement Into Your Communications Strategy," a must attend seminar for anyone wanted to reach out to the younger consumer. The cost is $15 and includes a box lunch. Sign up online or contact Vicky to register. | 
