RINGGOLD, Ga. — Tracy Breon, the new Colonnade director for Catoosa County, served three years as events coordinator for the civic center and is familiar with its operations.

The Catoosa County native is a graduate of Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe High School.

Her husband, Andrew, is self-em-ployed in the remodeling and construction business.

Mrs. Breon attended Chattanooga State Technical Community College and served for several years as an administrative assistant in the corporate world.

She sat down recently and talked to the Chattanooga Times Free Press about the future of the Colonnade, attempts to market it to the public and possible user rate reductions for daytime events on weekdays.

Q: How long did you serve as events coordinator here prior to accepting your current appointment?

A: I was here three years providing information to potential clients, showing facilities to visitors and attempting to provide a positive experience for our users.

Duties included coordinating with caterers and florists. Customer service is vital in this industry.

Q: Why did you agree to accept the director post when management changed from the Catoosa Foundation for the Performing Arts to Catoosa County government?

A: I love and believe in what we do. At the end of the day we are focused on creating positive memories whether it be large or small companies or smaller events such as weddings, anniversaries or birthdays for individuals.

Our primary source of advertising to this point has been word of mouth.

A renewed emphasis will be on serving county residents with the taxpayer-funded operation.

Q: What plans are being developed for the short term?

A: We are working to develop drastic reductions of about 50 percent in user prices during the day Monday through Friday.

I’m currently serving as director and events coordinator, but the plan is to have a full-time events coordinator on board within one to two weeks.

Shortly thereafter we plan to invite businesses and citizens to an open house. Those who haven’t been here need to see what we offer.

We have plenty of parking, this is a one-level facility and we offer personal service.

There are updates taking place here now with some painting and touchups. County Manager Mike Helton has been very involved in evaluating how improvements may be carried out.

There has been a tremendous outpouring of support from county residents with positive comments to the Chamber of Commerce.

Q: What long-term strategy or plan is being developed?

A: The goal is to develop fuller use of the potential of this facility. It’s quite impressive for a county our size.

Steps toward this goal will include the price reductions during normal office hours from Monday to Friday.

We must work constantly to develop favorable impressions by clients or potential clients.

A goal is to make residents realize this operation is for social and business events.

There are 17 performances booked into the performing arts theater.

We want to make sure we’re affordable for all.

Another key is our attitude and method of offering services. This includes developing relationships that go beyond a basic business activity. That is vital because perception is reality.

I believe you need a passion in this business.

Our volunteer program is important. We have slightly less than 100 volunteers and without their efforts we would be unable to provide the level of service now offered.

The Catoosa Foundation for the Performing Arts is an asset. Interest in the arts is dear to foundation members and we look forward to support from that group with booking recommendations.

Q: How will promotional literature be distributed to individuals and area groups touting the new user rates?

A: Brochures are being developed to assist in promoting our services.

Developing an Internet Web site will also be in the forefront in delivering information to all.

We must have the correct attitude if our goal is to create a memory that keeps clients coming back and spreading a positive word to others.

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