Key Speaker

The Honorable Diana Harshbarger

U.S. Representative (TN-01)

Discussion Summary

On November 25, Rep. Diana Harshbarger (TN-01) joined U.S. Travel, Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and other state and local leaders for a Travel Works for America Power Hour at The LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge. The discussion focused on policies to accelerate the region’s recovery from Hurricane Helene.

The discussion also touched on the federal role in the road to hurricane recovery, bolstering economic growth and competitiveness, visitor visa processing, strengthening security and reduction of delays, creating a world class airport customs process, investment in technology to revolutionize airport screening, and investment in travel mobility and infrastructure. 

Attendees

  • Melanie Beauchamp, Asst. Commissioner of Outreach, State of Tennessee
  • Eric Brackins, Assistant City Manager, City of Pigeon Forge
  • Dennis Clabo, City Recorder, City of Pigeon Forge
  • Steve Cruz, VP of Marketing, Hearthside Cabin Rentals
  • Leon Downey, Executive Director, Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism
  • Mark Ezell, Commissioner, TN Department of Tourist Development
  • Laurie Faulkner, Owner, Old Mill Properties
  • Tony Gerstner, Senior Account Director, Bohan
  • Brian Gilpatrick, Owner, Bohan
  • Ben Hale, Senior Account Director, Orange 142
  • Brad Ivens, Owner, Eagles Ridge, Inc.
  • Brent Lambert, Regional Director – TN Department of Tourist Development
  • Beau Massey, Co-Owner, Collier Restaurant Group
  • Elise Massey, Co-Owner, Collier Restaurant Group
  • Chris Massie, Owner, Rocky Top Coasters
  • Kevin McClure, Vice-Mayor, Pigeon Forge City Commission
  • Chelsea Merrell, Field Director, Office of Senator Marsha Blackburn
  • Jay Ogle, Commissioner, Pigeon Forge City Commission
  • Linda Ogle, Tourism Development Zone Board Member
  • Pete Owens, Vice President of Marketing, Dollywood
  • Nicole Porter, Vice President of Political Affairs, U.S. Travel Association
  • Mary Katelyn Price, Legislative Liaison, TN Department of Tourist Development
  • Laurie Taylor, Owner, Country Tonite Theatre
  • Earlene Teaster, City Manager, City of Pigeon Forge
  • Karl Thomas, Owner, Ramsey Hotel & Convention Center
  • Neal Thurman, Senior Vice President, Dollywood
  • Tony Watts, Commissioner, Pigeon Forge City Commission
  • David Wear, Mayor, Pigeon Forge City Commission
  • Keith Whaley, Commissioner, Pigeon Forge City Commission

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