Gov.-elect Bill Haslam will hold regional celebrations in five cities, including Chattanooga, in advance of his Jan. 15 inauguration in Nashville, his inaugural chief Kim Kaegi says.
In an e-mail, Kaegi says Haslam "will move our state forward on jobs, education and fiscal responsibility. As Bill takes office, many challenges lie ahead and our state will need to Work Together to Move Forward."
Kaegi said the Jan. 15 inaugural ceremony and surrounding events in Nashville that weekend will be open to the public and attendance at most events will be free.
"At the same time," Kaegi said, "Bill and Crissy realize that not all Tennesseans will be able to join the celebration in Nashville. Therefore, in appreciation of the tremendous honor to serve as your next Governor, Bill and Crissy invite you to join them for Regional Celebrations taking place across the state the week of Jan. 10."
The regional events are complimentary and open to the public. Events kick off Monday, Jan. 10, in Kingsport.
On Tuesday, Jan. 11, the inauguration committee will hold a celebration in Chattanooga at the Tennessee Aquarium from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Those interested may RSVP at Heather@BillHaslam.com.
Two West Tennessee celebrations are set for Wednesday, Jan. 12, with a lunch time event in Jackson and an evening event in Memphis. On Thursday, the final regional celebration will be held in Knoxville, where Haslam currently is mayor.
Fleischmann sends holiday cards
U.S. Rep.-elect Chuck Fleischmann, R-Tenn., has his holiday card out. The red-bordered card features a photo of Fleischmann, flanked by sons Jamie and Chuckie, posing in front of a holiday-festooned fireplace. Seated in front are the soon-to-be congressman's wife, Brenda, and youngest son, Jeffrey.
"Joy to the World," the card proclaims. "Seasons Greetings from our family to yours!"
Humphrey joins Ramsey
State Senate Clerk Russell Humphrey is taking over the duties of chief of staff to Senate Speaker Ron Ramsey, R-Blountville, on an interim basis. Ramsey's current chief of staff, Matt King, leaves Thursday to become vice president of state affairs for UnitedHealthcare, a medical insurer.
Contact staff writer Andy Sher at asher@timesfreepress.com or 615-255-0550.