The Fountain City Business & Professional Association is coming back to life after a year of covid-related missed meetings and malaise. President Jeff Bagwell has reached back to former leadership and ahead to future leaders to form a board to lead the club’s resurgence.
“We’ve got great speakers – already confirmed for the year – and a new meeting place,” he said. “Now we need participation from people who want Fountain City to thrive.”
The club has met for years in the fellowship hall of Central Baptist Fountain City. Bagwell is appreciative of the church’s welcome but wants to relocate to a venue where hot food is an option.
“We’re moving to Beaver Brook Country Club for 2021,” he said, “and are negotiating with a Fountain City Restaurant for 2022 and beyond.” Lunch at Beaver Brook will cost $14, including entrée, vegetables, dessert and drink.
Membership dues are $45 with membership open to individuals or businesses in the Fountain City area. The club is revamping its website and will become active on social media, Bagwell said. “Meetings will include introductions and every member will get a membership pin and window logo.”
New officers are Bagwell, a captain with Rural Metro Fire, president; Cindy Reeves, branch manager at Southeast Bank, vice president; Sharon Jennings, owner of Priority Financial Solutions, secretary; and Holly Roach, ORNL credit union, treasurer.
Committee chairs are Samantha Clabo, Southeast Bank, communications; Regina Reed, Crye-Leike Realtors, events; and the membership director is open. Remaining board members are R. Larry Smith, Ashley Davenport and Mark Enix.
Upcoming for 2021:
- April – Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs
- May – Darryl Warren – AMR (for EMS month)
- June – Michele Carringer – state representative
- July – City council forum for all candidates
- August – Jimmy Hyams – SportsTalk
- September – Andy Padgett – TDOT
- October – Final city council debate
- November – Daniel Nelson – Salvation Army
- December – Party
Beth Kinnane is community news editor at KnoxTNToday.com.