FWK Chamber hosts annual Open House

Hundreds of Farragut West Knox Chamber of Commerce members gathered to mingle and network during the Chamber’s annual open house.

The Chamber hosted the event at its office at 11826 Kingston Pike Tuesday, Dec. 6. The open house featured foods from about 30 restaurants and individuals and beverages from Dixie Lee Wines & Liquors while being entertained by Angela Floyd School of Dance and Music student Chloe Culbertson, getting a massage and donating gifts for Care 365 Christmas Care program.

“It’s always a delight [to attend the Open House],” Donna Bryan, Chamber member with The Real Estate Firm Inc., said. “The people who come get to meet up for a great time, and my thoughts and prayers still are going out to the people of Gatlinburg at this time.”

Bettye Sisco, Chamber president and CEO, estimated there were between 250 and 300 attendees at this year’s event.

“It went well,” she said. “The restaurants and individuals have donated food and music was donated by Angela Floyd [School of Dance and Music],” she said. “There were lots of new members and members who have been a round for awhile.”

While touring the Chamber office, attendees placed toys and other items under the tree for Care 365, a non-profit charity operated by retired Lenoir City High school coach David Moore.

The event also gave Sisco a chance to introduce Sam Landon, the Chamber’s new intern,

Mike Prescott, Smith & Hammaker, said this was his first time attending the Chamber open house.

“It’s a great event,” Prescott said. “Great food. You probably see more Chamber members from this event than any other.”

Business consultant Donna Rose Parker said she came to the event because she is new to the area and to her firm, which encourages community involvement.

“The food is great,” Daryl Walker with AllGood Pest Solutions, said. “The people who make up the Chamber are some of the best people I’ve been around. They want to see the community do well, and they work together to achieve that.”

Christi Wright said the open house offered attendees a chance to experience fare from the vendors at one time.

“It’s great,” Denise Miller said. “It’s always a fun time to support other local businesses and get to know other business owners.”

The event also offered attendees a chance to memorialize the experience with photos from Fox Box Photo Booth.

“We just wanted to bring everyone together and have fun,” Neil Pierce, co-owner of Fox Box Photo Booth with his fiancée, Shianne Kaina.