What is your vision for Knoxville 10 years from now?
For Knoxville/Knox County to be a magnet for business growth, taking advantage of our many human, financial, natural and locational resources and advantages. We should insist this growth be inclusive and create opportunities for economic prosperity for all citizens, who will then be empowered to drive meaningful change that is important to their communities and families.
What is Knoxville's best kept secret?
The French Broad and Holston Rivers above Knoxville are amazing in their diversity of flora and fauna. Seven Islands. South Knoxville’s riverfront development and Urban Wilderness.
What would you do to strengthen Knoxville?
We should leverage our built-in advantages with the University of Tennessee, ORNL and Knoxville businesses (e.g., our “technology corridor”) to market our strengths and opportunities to businesses that offer good paying jobs. To accommodate these new businesses, we must continue to expand business parks and make land and facilities readily available.
What is your favorite Knoxville memory?
So many, but just for pure fun…1998…John Ward…”This kick is in the air and the kick this time is … No sir-ree! No sir-ree! Final score. Tennessee 20. Florida 17. Pandemonium Reigns!”
What is your favorite book or what book is currently on your nightstand?
Band of Brothers by Stephen Ambrose. A true story of the heroism of our father and grandfathers.
What is the best advice you have received from a mentor, and who was that mentor?
Maybe not the best, but perhaps the most useful….Charlie Wagner, a mentor and former law partner, urged me to learn to write clearly and get to the point, whether trying to inform or persuade. He first exposed me to the phrase “if I’d had more time I would’ve written a shorter letter.” I have carried this approach not only into writing but all types of expression. Fewer carefully chosen and well-thought words often say more.
What advice would you give to your 16 year old self?
Enjoy the journey. Soak it up. Steep yourself in it. Relish the moments. Make memories not photographs. Be a student and a teacher. Learn to listen. Evaluate your priorities and goals often. Spend time with your parents. The journey is the point. The destination usually doesn’t matter.
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