The Chamber thanks the 50 or so Blount County businesses who took the time to meet with 10th graders from the Blount County Schools and Oneonta City School during the first Blount County Career Expo on Tuesday, April 23. More than 750 students came through the expo throughout the day and we hope they learned a little bit about all the opportunities that are available to them in Blount County as they continue their education and look towards the future. 

The event was a dream of Hayden High School guidance counselor Karron Standridge, and we appreciate her efforts in bringing this project to fruition. And we appreciate her giving us the opportunity to be a part of this special event. We were on site throughout the day interviewing students as well as business and community leaders who were present. All of the video will be compiled into the next few chamber shows that will air in the coming weeks on Otelco Channel 71.

In a letter to the participating businesses, Karron stated, "As you know, career decisions are one of the most important decisions we make. You are helping young people with that important decision. Someone will walk away today ready to follow their dreams because you took time to spend with them. Blount County and Oneonta City Schools appreciate you spending time with our most precious resource."

We at the chamber couldn't agree more! These students are our county's future and it is our hope that these students will continue their education and come back home to Blount County to start their careers. We look forward to next year's expo and the opportunities that await these young men and women.

There will be much to do in Blount County over the next few weeks with several events planned.

On Friday, April 26, the The American Cancer Society will be holding the Blount County Relay for Life. The event kicks off at 5 p.m. with Survivors Dinner in The Depot followed by the Survivor's Walk to kick off the evening. There will be lots of activities throughout the night so stop by the Oneonta Recreation Park just off Highway 75 to show your support!

The Highway 132 Yardsale also is planned for Friday, April 26, and Saturday, April 27. Bargains can be found along the route that starts in Oneonta and ends in Altoona at Highway 278.

HomeTown Bank will hold its annual HomeTown Heroes Run on Saturday, May 4. All proceeds from registration for 5K, 10K and 1 Mile Fun Run, will go to Blount County's Hope House. For more information, call the bank at 205-625-4434.

Also, on Saturday, May 4, the Oneonta Business Association will hold its downtown yard sale. Check out the group's website at www.oneontabusinessassociation.com for additional information. They are also taking applications now for the Annual June Fling, which will be the first Saturday of June. More information, including vendor applications, can be found on the website.