February 2026 Newsletter 
President's Report
February may be the shortest month of the year, but it’s one of the most meaningful. It’s a time that invites us to pause, reflect, and reconnect—with our mission, with one another, and with the values that guide us forward.
This month, we celebrate 3 different things:
· Valentine’s Day, a reminder that appreciation and kindness matter—not just in our personal lives, but in the way we support, encourage, and uplift each other every day.
· Black History Month, offering an opportunity to recognize the lasting contributions, resilience, and leadership that continue to shape our communities.
· American Heart Month reminds us to care for what matters most—our health, our well-being, and the people around us.
As we move through the early weeks of the year, I’m inspired by the energy and commitment I see throughout our organization. Even during the colder days of winter, our shared purpose keeps us moving forward with momentum and heart.
In the spirit of love, service, and community, I encourage each of you to find a way to give back this month. W
Whether it’s volunteering your time, supporting a local nonprofit, mentoring, donating, or participating in an upcoming service project, even small acts of service can make a meaningful difference.
As Albert Schweitzer wisely said,
“The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to help others.”
Let’s take that message to heart this February and turn compassion into action—strengthening our communities and one another along the way.
Thank you for all that you do. Your dedication, generosity, and heart do not go unnoticed. Together, let’s make February a month defined by service, gratitude, and impact.
Warm regards,
ASIST
Executive Women International-Chattanooga (EWI-Chattanooga) is giving scholarships again this year to deserving adults in support of the Adult Students in Scholastic Transition (ASIST) corporate program.
The scholarships are given to adult students who, through life experiences, find themselves needing to make a life-transition. Whether it is due to health, social, economic or personal issues, a change is needed to improve their life. One which further education can be of benefit.
ASIST scholarships are made available to adults facing economic social or physical challenges who are looking to improve their situation through educational opportunities. EWI-Chattanooga will partner with Chattanooga State Community College, Southern Adventist, and University of Tennessee Chattanooga to identify potential candidates.
The application period opened on January 9 and runs through 11:59 p.m. (Central Standard Time) on March 31. EWI-Chattanooga will be giving a scholarship of $1,500 to the top candidate and $500 to the second and third place winners.
EWI-Chattanooga winners are then submitted to EWI-Corporate level for another opportunity to be selected or an additional scholarship ranging from $2,000 to $10,000. This scholarship program is a powerful way EWI supports students pursuing higher education.
The scholarships are not primarily based on the academic level of candidates, but on the need for pursing higher education to better themselves, their family and the community in which they live.
ASIST application is available at: https://apply.mykaleidoscope.com/program/Asist2026
If you have any questions or need assistance with the application process, please contact Penny D Walker at [email protected].
REMEMBER – the deadline for submission is March 31, at 11:59 p.m. (Central).
Member Spotlight
Congratulations to BlueCross BlueShield of TN, Chattanooga being on the Forbes List of top employers!
Community
Crockpot Chicken Fajita Recipe
These Crock Pot Chicken Fajitas have so much zesty flavor! This easy slow cooker method is gluten-free, low-carb and basically cooks itself.
Ingredients
For The Chicken:
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 15 ounces Rotel Original diced tomatoes and chilies (11/2 cans), (You can use diced tomatoes, or the mild version of Rotel for less spice if preferred.)
- 3 tablespoons Taco seasoning (see below)
- 3 bell peppers
- 1 large onion, sliced thinly
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh juice from 1 lime
- ½ cup cilantro, rough-chopped
For The Taco Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon powdered garlic
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, rough chopped
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Cheddar Cheese
- Avocado/Guacamole
Instructions
- Add diced tomatoes to the slow cooker, then add the chicken breasts. Season them with 3 tablespoons of the taco seasoning, then add sliced onions and minced garlic.
- Cover and cook on High Temp for 2½ hours, or if cooking on Low Temp, then cook for 4½ hours.
- Add the sliced bell peppers on top of the chicken, cover and cook for 1 more hour if cooking on High Temp, or 2 more hours if cooking on Low Temp.
- Remove chicken and shred with a fork, then transfer back to the slow cooker.
- Add freshly squeezed lime juice and ¼ cup rough-chopped cilantro, and mix thoroughly.
- Make tacos, serve over rice and beans, or use in burritos or quesadillas. Garnish with toppings and enjoy.
Save The Date
📚 Announcing the Official Name & Logo for Our 2026 Reading Rally!
Save the Date — July 18, 2026 — and get ready to volunteer, donate, and join us in making this event unforgettable!
We are thrilled to announce the Official Name and Logo for our upcoming City-Wide Reading Rally, an event designed to inspire a lifelong love of reading in children and families throughout Chattanooga and surrounding counties.
📅 Date: Saturday, July 18, 2026
🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Location: Miller Park
🎟 Admission: FREE
About the Event
This community celebration will be open to all families and filled with fun, learning, and inspiration. Here’s what you can look forward to:
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🎒 Free School Supplies (while supplies last)
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📖 Local Authors hosting live book readings
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🚚 Food Trucks offering delicious treats
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📚 A Free Book for Every Child (while supplies last)
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🎨 Face Painting & Fun Activities
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🐾 Appearances by Local Sports Mascots
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🚒 A visit from the Local Firetruck
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…and many more family-friendly experiences!
Sponsorship Opportunities
We invite businesses, organizations, and individuals to help make the 2026 Reading Rally a resounding success. Sponsorship packages include special recognition and promotional opportunities:
Platinum Sponsor – $5,000
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Prominent logo placement on all event materials
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Featured mention in press release
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Opportunity to speak at the event
Gold Sponsor – $2,500
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Booth option at the event
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Logo placement on event materials
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Mention in press release & recognition during event
Silver Sponsor – $1,000
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Booth option
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Logo placement on event materials
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Recognition during the event
Bronze Sponsor – $500
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Recognition on event materials and during the event
Individual Sponsor – $100
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Recognition during the event
If you don’t see a package that fits your budget, we’ll be happy to tailor a sponsorship level to match your goals.
Get Involved
Be part of an event that will put books, smiles, and opportunities into the hands of local children.
For questions or to secure your sponsorship:
📧 Charlie Rosenquist – [email protected]
Let’s rally together for reading, community, and our children’s future!
