September EKBPA Meeting Recap
Held at Chilhowee Park in Partnership with the Tennessee Valley Fair
Our September meeting brought the excitement and tradition of the Tennessee Valley Fair to life! Held on the morning of Thursday, September 11, 2025, we gathered at Chilhowee Park & Exposition Center (Gate #9), right on the fairgrounds. It was a beautiful morning for fellowship, learning, and celebrating one of East Knoxville’s signature events.
Featured Speaker: Scott Suchomski, Executive Director – Tennessee Valley Fair
We were honored to welcome Scott Suchomski as our featured speaker. As Executive Director of the Tennessee Valley Fair, Scott gave us a powerful reminder of how deeply the fair is woven into the fabric of our community—and how it continues to grow and evolve.
Key Highlights:
- Historic Legacy: The Tennessee Valley Fair has been in operation since 1916, making it one of Knoxville’s longest-running community events.
- Economic Impact: Generates over $10 million annually in local revenue, benefiting small businesses, vendors, and seasonal workers.
- Youth Engagement: Thousands of students participate in competitions, exhibits, and educational experiences through 4-H, FFA, and art programs.
- Community Involvement: The fair supports local nonprofits with booth space and opportunities for outreach and fundraising.
- Entertainment Lineup: With nightly concerts, thrilling rides, livestock showcases, and daily fireworks, the fair remains a premier destination for families across East Tennessee.
- Looking Ahead: Scott shared updates on future expansion plans, increased accessibility for differently abled guests, and efforts to keep the fair relevant for younger generations.
Scott’s passion for East Knoxville was evident throughout his presentation. He reminded us that this isn’t just a carnival—it’s a cultural and economic engine, built by and for the people of our region.
Member Perks & Community Appreciation
Thanks to our partners at the Tennessee Valley Fair, all active EKBPA members who attended the meeting received:
- 🎟️ A free admission ticket to return and enjoy the fair later that evening
- 🚗 A parking pass for free and easy access to the festivities
Breakfast was also generously provided by the Fair team—thank you for fueling our morning with delicious hospitality!
Looking Ahead
We love when our meetings bring us right into the heartbeat of East Knoxville. From celebrating heritage at the Fair to promoting civic and economic engagement, EKBPA remains committed to creating opportunities for connection and impact.
Stay tuned for our October meeting announcement—we’re lining up another great speaker and location!
