Roane Chamber's 2016 Awards Banquet - 70 Years in the Making

On April 22 the Roane Chamber's 70th Awards Banquet was held at Whitestone Country Inn, with a sold out crowd that resulted in one of the most successful. This special night is always held each spring to honor outstanding Chamber members, and this year was no exception - with more awards than ever, one of which, was a donation to the Chamber itself.

The evening's success could not have happened without the sponsors and auction donors.  Title sponsors for the banquet were Toho Tenax America, Inc and Roane State Community College Foundation.  Gold Sponsors included Centrus Energy, CNS Y-12,Coldwell Banker Jim Henry Associates, Regions, UCOR and UT-Battelle.  The Wine Sponsor for the evening was Proton Power.   To see all of our donors and more information about the banquet visit the Chamber website page.

The Distinguished Service Award went to Russell Johnson, Roane County District Attorney General.  Designed to honor someone in our community who made an impact and difference by being a servant to others, Johnson's impact on Roane County has included helping lead the start-up of the Roane County Anti-Drug Coalition, the Child Advocacy Center "Kids First" program, the Boys and Girls Club of Roane County, and most recently, the start-up of the "Recovery Court."  This latest grant-funded program carefully screens participants who have pleaded to nonviolent, drug related offenses who can apply for the intervention program.  He also serves on numerous boards, include Tennessee Wildlife Foundation and East Tennessee Development District.

Toho Tenax America, Inc. was awarded the Business of the Year, honoring them for their longevity and dedication to Roane County through very challenging times.  One of the world's leading manufacturers of carbon fiber products and a Roane Chamber member since 1990, Toho came through the tough times stronger and ready to grow to meet the needs of a growing business sector. "They exemplify all this award signifies - cooperative spirit, dedication to partnerships, drive to succeed and compassion for a healthy community. 

The Honorable Terry Stevens, Roane County General Sessions Judge, Part I, received the Paul E. Goldberg Young Professional award.  This under 40 award spotlights those shooting stars in our community that have displayed leadership qualities that make a significant difference in Roane County.  When nominated, the winner was said to have, "An excellent reputation in the community, and is very professional in business and personal relationships, and exhibits all qualities needed to be considered for this award." 

Marilyn Calfee was named the Chamber's Woman of the Year for not only all of the efforts she puts into the Chamber as a Board member and being an Ambassador, but also for being very involved in Roane County.  Calfee also serves on the E-911 Board, The Roane County Anti-Drug Coalition, and works as a Committee Chair for Relay for Life.  

"Every cause needs a champion to be successful, someone to be encouraging during times of adversity and to provide balance when times are good, said Chamber President Wade Creswell, The Roane Alliance.  "She has been just that to our entire staff.  She is a reminder for why we do what we do every day."

The Ambassador of the Year went to Christy Brown, Griffin Insurance, for her hard work recruiting new members and representing the Chamber all year at events and in the community.

Governor Chief of Staff, Jim Henry, presented a special award to Kathy May-Martin, Coldwell Banker Jim Henry & Associates for her achievements and dedication over the years to Roane County.  The presentation was a $2,000 donation from Coldwell Banker employees in her name to the Chamber.

The Chamber also recognized outgoing Board members: Chamber Board Chair Gail Lyke, First Bank of Tennessee, Rockwood; Kenyon Mee, Perma-Fix; and Jeff Nichols, UT-Battelle/ORNL.

The Roane Chamber is a partner in the Roane Alliance, along with the Industrial Development Board and the Visitors Bureau.   Visit the Chamber website to learn more.  To view more photos of the event visit the Chamber Facebook album.
Thank you to all our silent auction donors: