Outreach

Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee is one of the most important food donation charities in Nashville.  Hunger is a growing problem in the United States, with over 35 million Americans unsure of where they will get their next meal.

Read more: Second Harvest Food Bank

 All over America there are big cats living in captivity.  Some live in zoos, some are owned by private collectors and some are raised by breeders.  Although it may seem exciting to have a big cat as a pet, many people buy them without realizing how expensive and time-consuming,   not to mention dangerous, they really are.  

Read more: Tiger Haven Provides Refuge For Great Cats

Workshops Focus on Steps Businesses Can Take to Survive During the Economic Downturn

The Tennessee Small Business Development Center (TSBDC) announced today it will be providing a training workshop for small businesses entitled “Business Survival in Tough Economic Times.”   The workshop will be held at Volunteer State Community College on March 5th from 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. in the Library. The workshop is free, but registration is required at www.tsbdc.org.

“The free training event is designed to address a wide range of steps business owners can take to preserve cash and maintain business operations during the present national economic recession. It is critical for all businesses to fully explore all possible measures to off-set reductions in cash flow and bottom line,” said Patrick Geho, State Executive Director of the Tennessee Small Business Development Center.

“Small business is critical to Tennessee’s economic well-being,” said Governor Phil Bredesen. “While recent research indicates Tennessee enjoys a comparative advantage over other southeastern states in respect to small business growth, we must continue to take steps to assist small businesses, especially in these tough economic times. The Tennessee Small Business Development Center’s work is an important part of our efforts to provide our small businesses with tools to help them succeed.”

“We’re proud that Volunteer State Community College can continue to assist the local small business community during the economic downturn.  The TSBDC has had a big impact over the last two years. The role of the TSBDC is even more important given the economic conditions and the challenges small businesses are facing,” said Dr. Warren Nichols, President of Volunteer State Community College.

The goal of the Tennessee Small Business Development Center program is to assist business owners through business training and one-to-one business counseling. The program has been assisting existing and start-up businesses since 1985.

The TSBDC program is a partnership between the State of Tennessee and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Headquartered at Middle Tennessee State University, there are 15 TSBDC service centers located across the state in both rural and urban communities. In addition, business training and counseling is provided at multiple affiliate office locations such as chambers of commerce, banks and community centers, as well as on the internet. Remember, to register for this workshop go online to www.tsbdc.org and click on the Training Calendar. 

Brenda Payne Named New Chamber President and CEO

Hendersonville, Tennessee - May 21, 2008- The Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Staff is proud to welcome Brenda Payne as the new President and CEO. Mrs. Payne will be succeeding John Pennington who has announced his retirement and will be effective June 1st. Brenda brings with her to the Chamber her knowledge of the community and the membership. Brenda served as the Board Chair for the Hendersonville Chamber in 1998-1999, but has stayed an active member throughout the years since. She most recently served as the Business Development Officer at Sumner Bank and Trust in Hendersonville.

“It is my great honor to accept the position of President of the Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce. I am so grateful to assume the reins from my friend, John Pennington, who has so ably led the chamber the past 15 years. Our city is on the cusp of phenomenal growth in business, industry, retail, education, and a diverse residential constituency that will influence our quality of life for decades to come. The Chamber of Commerce is poised to harness the energy of these diverse forces to leverage partnerships among business, education, civic and social entities. My dream is to capitalize on our assets such as our strong business leadership, our schools, our history, our lake, parks and incredible civic pride to build the future while honoring past achievements. This is a team effort and will require the commitment and hard work of many but the outcome will be worth it all. I have been overwhelmed with the outpouring of support thus far and pledge my total commitment to those leaders on our board, our staff, and our city, “ states Brenda Payne.

Read more: Brenda Payne Named New Chamber President and CEO