By Selena Haynes
Thursday, March 31, 2023 was a historic day for the Tennessee Pride Chamber (TPC) as the first-ever Brewing Up Business (BUB) was held in Murfreesboro. Formerly known as the Nashville LGBT Chamber, the TPC is now a statewide chamber.
The Murfreesboro BUB was held at Panther Creek Brews and co-hosted by Connect Media Group, a long-time chamber member. Panther Creek, locally owned by JT Gowen, Melvin Stewart and Jeremy Taylor, provided food and beverages for the event.
“We were happy to host the TN Pride Chamber’s brewing up business. We work hard at Panther Creek to create a fun, inclusive, and judgment-free place where everyone feels welcome and can have a good time with great beer,” said Gowen.
This event is significant because it opens up the doors for other like-minded businesses and organizations to network and join the chamber not only in Murfreesboro but across the state. Several people attended the event along with TPC board members and the TPC President, Brian Rosman.
“Our first Brewing Up Business in Murfreesboro was a huge success and turnout. We had LGBTQ+ and allied professionals from large corporations, small businesses, entrepreneurs, MTSU, and individuals all attend. These events create networking opportunities that lead to economic opportunities for LGBTQ+ and allied professionals. There are more than 133,000 LGBTQ+ workers in Tennessee making up more than 4% of the state’s workforce. We are part of every community in every part of the state, whether people realize it or not. We will be hosting more of these on a regular schedule in Murfreesboro and other cities throughout Tennessee,” said Rosman.
Several people in attendance said they appreciated the event and looked forward to more gatherings in the future.
“I loved being around such inclusive people whose genuine concern was that we all succeed,” said Missy Lay with Wild Goose Chase Events.
If you’re interested in hosting a TPC networking event, contact CJ Clark at [email protected].
