What Can I Do?

A question on the radio this morning has gotten me on a tear. The conversation was about the 3-Star strategic plan and the question was what is the Chamber going to do to implement it? What is the Chamber going to do? The question should have been this. What can I, as a member of this community, do to help implement this?

Who is the chamber? The director and a board? No, in reality, the Chamber is its members. And it’s those members whom the responsibility of change and action fall on. Those members determine if the chamber is successful or not. The chamber can only act as a clearinghouse, a gatherer of information, a coordinator of events. The chamber is only as good as its members.

I, as a member of this community, have to take responsibility for the implementation of any plan designed by the chamber, the business association, government, or anyone, to make Brownsville and Haywood County a better place.

If we want our town to be pretty, then I have to do my part to make it that way. If we want the local hospital to thrive and provide more services, or more importantly continue to operate, then I have to use the services already provided. If downtown businesses are going to continue to exist, then I have to patronize them.

It’s not what the Chamber is going to do that will determine the success of the 3-Star Strategic Plan of Action. It’s what the community does. It is each of us asking ourselves, “What part can I play to make this happen?”

Leadership Haywood County

Isn't it funny how time goes by so quickly? And how it can seem like only yesterday, but actually have been 13 years ago? That's a realization I had last night while attending the Leadership Haywood County graduation banquet. Here were 15 men and women who had spent at least one Thursday a month together since August and it was evident that they had formed some lasting relationships. But I couldn't help but wonder if 13 years from now what would they remember from this experience.

Why 13 years? Because that's how long it has been since I graduated from Leadership Haywood County. Sitting at the table with one of my former "classmates," we tried to remember who all were in our class. And, after a few minutes, we did remember everyone. We also remembered that our class split into two teams to come up with class projects. Today the whole class works as one. I'm glad. I think that's a better plan.

I'm wondering if maybe it's time to implement a refresher course for graduates. Say every five years. After all, a lot can change in 13 years.

Here's a call to all 1995 Leadership Haywood County graduates - Let's have a reunion!

Anyone interested?

Miss Hatchie Pageant planned for April 26

Plans for the Hatchie Fall Fest are beginning to take shape. We began seriously planning in January and many things are beginning to take shape. One big addition to this year's activities actually takes place in a few weeks - The Miss Hatchie Pageant! Crestview Healthcare will sponsor this pageant and all proceed will benefit Relay for Life. I know there are lots of people interested in the pageant circuit and this one promises to become an annual event. The pageant is Saturday, April 26 at College Hill. Learn more about the details. (pdf)