BusinessTN

The 100 standout Tennesseans on the following pages are a little more Republican and bit less political or governmental than our 2004 list of the state’s most powerful people. That’s probably because the GOP has been gaining ground here in recent years, seen most clearly in its capturing of a majority in the state Senate for the first time since Reconstruction. Also, the state’s economy continues to expand, making corporate centers of influence even more powerful. How our editorial team arrived at these rankings is more a tale of art than science. But in all cases, the selections reflect the perceived ability and inclination of those on the list to effect change in various realms of life in Tennessee—business, politics, academia, philanthropy, religion. Scores of sources around the state shared their background opinions with our journalists, who mixed these outside suggestions with their own understanding. The result is a list of people who bear uncommon responsibility for Tennessee’s present good fortunes. Their successes enrich all of us.

No.100 GLENN REYNOLDS
Founder • Instapundit.com
King of the blogosphere, pioneering the medium in August 2001. Right-wing commentator with readers worldwide. Has been described as the heart and mind of the Bush administration in making the case for war with Iraq. An Internet law professor at the U.T.-Knoxville and one of the most prolific scholars on the faculty. Instapundit.com boasts daily readership in excess of 100,000 (comparable to readership of the mainstream Knoxville daily). A media mogul of the new era, he counts White House staffers among his readership.

No.99 FRANK RICKS
Principal • Looney Ricks Kiss
Founder of architecture powerhouse with offices in Memphis, Nashville, Florida and New Jersey. During the firm’s two-decade history, Ricks and Company designed the Stax Museum, the FedExForum and AutoZone Park in Memphis. A University of Memphis graduate, Ricks advises the school’s College of Communications & Fine Arts and its architecture program.

No.98 LEE BEAMAN
Owner • Beaman Automotive Group
Wealthy auto dealer (among other financial interests) who emerged as a major player in statewide GOP politics during the 2002 income tax debate, wielding big money and activism to make the moderate party accountable to conservatives. GOP’s right wing solicits his opinions. Big contributor to Republican legislative candidates. Also monetized 2004 formation of a policy institute, led by his wife, bent on making state government more transparent. Generous with family wealth made in Pepsi bottling and car sales. Large gifts (Belmont and Fisk universities, the Nashville Symphony) have secured his Nashville legacy.

No.97 JIM POWELL
Founder & CEO • Powell Construction
Built what began as a three-man, one-crane operation in 1969 into one of the most successful construction enterprises in the state. With its many divisions and more than 600 employees, Powell Construction maintains five offices in Ten- nessee, West Virginia and South Carolina. Big donor to ETSU and other East Tennessee charities. Supports GOP candidates, including Bill Frist.

No.96 STEVE SMITH
Vice President • Haury & Smith
Is to Bill Frist (#3) what Mercer Reynolds is to President George W. Bush. No other Tennessean more has Frist’s ear. Does Frist’s bidding around the nation. Among other races, was heavily involved in the tactical and fundraising effort that led to the defeat of Senate Minority Leader Tom Dashle in North Dakota, securing an even stronger majority for Frist in the U.S. Senate. Always at the foot of Air Force One to greet the President on visits to Nashville. Son of Nashville community leader Reece Smith Sr.

No.95 MONROE CARELL JR.
Chairman & CEO • Central Parking
Returned two years ago to lead company as chief executive officer after Central Parking’s financial performance under new leadership faltered. Carell Sr. founded Central Parking, which continues to experience mediocre financial results. Has served on Vanderbilt University’s Board of Trust since 1991. Namesake of Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital to which he donated $20 million. Also has served on the boards of the Cheekwood Botanical Gardens and Fine Arts Center, and the Tennessee Performing Arts Center. Has been vice president of the Urban Land Institute, and president and chairman of the board of directors of the National Parking Association.

No.94 MIKE ROSS
Real Estate tycoon
With $700 million Rarity Pointe condominium project on Lake Tellico, Ross almost single-handedly boosted East Tennessee’s prestige as a prime retirement destination. Reportedly started out in his twenties by selling an antebellum mansion to a wealthy Texas businessman at a tidy profit. Gained renown for other Rarity developments in Louden County, Oak Ridge and Monroe County. Beyond the financial success ($100 million in sales in 2003), his developments bring affluent communities to the area, broadening its tax base and stimulating economic growth.

No.93 ARNOLD PERL
Attorney • Young & Perl
A man whose call would be returned by anybody in Memphis. Chairman, New Memphis Arena Public Building Authority, who oversaw on-budget construction of FedExForum, the new crown jewel of Memphis. Through deft, transparent handling of that politically controversial, race-sensitive, media-hot public project, Perl’s stock soared. Prominent lawyer long recognized nationally for his labor mediation skills. Chairman, Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority, the busiest cargo airport in the world (over 100,000 laborers). Negotiated 2004 FedEx-National Guard land swap allowing each to expand. Overseeing airport’s $25 million concessions upgrade.

No.92 JOHN T. NIXON
Senior Federal Judge • U.S. District Court
Appointed by Jimmy Carter in 1980. Over- turns many death-penalty murder cases on basis of the judge’s instructions to the jury. Champion of the Tennessee Justice Center, stymieing recent gubernatorial efforts to abolish TennCare and ruling in favor of reforming the system. Former trial attorney with Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington. Harvard University and Vanderbilt Law School graduate.

No.91 BISHOP JOSEPH W. WALKER III
Pastor • Mount Zion Baptist Church
Began pastorate at 139-year-old Jefferson Street church in 1992 at age 24 with 175 congregants. Under his guidance, congregation has grown to over 15,000 members at three locations. Annual rate of growth—1,800 members. Boasts five weekly T.V. broadcasts and two daily radio broadcasts. Founded nonprofit that has awarded nearly $250,000 in scholarships. Appointed by Gov. Phil Bredesen to the Tennessee Human Rights Commission. Just 37, and having the ear of so many congregants, Walker is increasingly flexing his political muscle to effect positive change in Nashville and across the state.

No.90 C.M. “BILL” GATTON
Entrepreneur
Gatton became a millionaire through his ownership of multiple car dealerships and was tagged “Wild Bill” as a result of his wacky television commercials in the 1970s. Used that money to enter banking and real estate. Currently developing 700 acres in the Murfreesboro Gateway District. Completed a separate 700-acre development in Lexington, Ky. Gave his alma mater, the University of Kentucky the biggest donation in its history. The university’s business school is named after him. Committed to numerous philanthropy projects. On the board of BB&T. Not bad for a fellow who started out in business raising watermelons.

No.89 RAY BELL
Owner • Ray Bell Construction
Look at any road, bridge, prison or stadium project in Tennessee, and Bell’s imprint likely is on them. One of the state’s biggest contractors who still lands plenty of state projects. Last month in Knoxville won the state’s largest ever road project at $85 million. Biggest 2004 gig was renovating Legislative Plaza, plugging leaks and killing mold. Project gave Bell even more opportunity for interaction with lawmakers and politicos. Longtime Democratic political force in Tennessee who has personal relationships with most top state officials and at least 100 of the state’s 132 lawmakers.

No.88 VIOLA MILLER
Commissioner of Children’s Services
State of Tennessee
Nationally respected children’s services guru who was on her way to a top job in Georgia when Gov. Phil Bredesen snagged her to lead Tennessee’s system. Overhauling culture of a department riddled with high profile failures seemingly destined for the bottom of the ocean. That doesn’t happen overnight. Bredesen can only hope she sticks around to right ship. Combination cheerleader/task master balancing low staffing levels against the need to shake things up. Provides oversight to over 10,000 kids statewide. Responsible for over 4,000 employees and $500 million-plus budget.

No.87 GAYLE S. ROSE
Founder & Chairman • Gayle S. Rose Foundation
Leads the Rose Family Foundations and served as past chair of Women’s Found- ation for a Greater Memphis. Force behind Memphis’ HOPE VI project, aimed at reducing poverty through partnerships with private and public entities. Recently joined Heritage Capital Advisors as managing director. Heading fundraising effort to raise $1 million annually by 2006 for the Women’s Foundation, which works to empower women and support children in the community. Helped lure the NBA’s Grizzlies to Memphis.

No.86 BILL DUNAVANT
Chairman & CEO • Dunavant Enterprises
Cotton king. Dunavant’s decision to step down in July as chairman and CEO of the cotton empire that spans five continents will only slightly affect his status on the Who’s Who list of Memphis and Tennessee commerce. While handing over some day-to-day operations to his sons and a son-in-law, Dunavant pledged to remain “chairman of the board forever.” The cotton merchant grew his father’s business from a small family store in 1961 to its current gargantuan dimensions. Plans to focus on land development and real estate in retirement.

No.85 HALLERIN HILTON HILL
Radio Host • NewsTalk99 WNOX AM/FM
Expanding reach of his conservative talk radio presence beyond Knoxville to grab a Nashville audience. Combines inspirational messages with listener participation and conservative talk (although he’s called himself an “independent”). Hosts television show Anything is Possible on WBIR TV Channel 10, authored book The Seven Pillars of Wisdom, and is a Grammy-nominated songwriter. Voted Best Talk Show host by Metro Pulse in Knoxville multiple times. Sits on the board of inner-city property developer BDT Development and Management, started by LeRoy Thompson.

No.84 SHIRLEY RAINES
President • University of Memphis
At helm as efforts take shape to beef up the University of Memphis, trying to make it to the Bluff City what the University of Tennessee is to Knoxville and Vanderbilt to Nashville. The individual who interfaces with Gov. Phil Bredesen as corporate Memphis contemplates lobbying to remove the university from the Board of Regents system, making it more of a flagship institution, with a board and a foundation of its own. In those respects, the stakes are high for Raines’ tenure. Separately, helped push along creation of the FedEx Institute for Technology, the proposed MIT of the South.

No.83 DENNIS VONDERFECHT
President & CEO • Mountain States Health Alliance
Chairs powerful hospital lobby Tennessee Hospital Association and sits on board of Hospital Alliance of Tennessee, which represents nonprofit hospitals in the state. Leads Johnson City-based nonprofit hospital system in a region where health care—and his leadership—is viewed more as saving lives than running a business. Named 2004 Honorary Alumnus by East Tennessee State University for expanding the partnership between MSHA and the school’s Quillen College of Medicine. Has served on the boards of several local nonprofit organizations, including the United Way and Red Cross.

No.82 PAT MILLER
Chairman • Tennessee Regulatory Authority
Assumed chairmanship of the state regulatory behemoth last year. With that appointment, the Nashville native and U.T. graduate gained a stronger foot- hold in the state bureaucracy. Prior to becoming TRA director, Miller was chief of staff for Lt. Gov. John Wilder between 1997 and 2002. Instrumental in last year’s shifting of Tennessee railroad inspection function from TDOT to TRA’s domain. The agency’s largest division wields power over important telecom matters, including consumer-oriented local number portability regulation and do-not-call lists.

No.81 JERRY LEE
President • Tennessee AFL-CIO
Power took a hit during last year’s workers’ comp reform debate. Smelling blood, union opposition in the state is gearing up to push long-standing pet projects stymied when the AFL-CIO was a stronger organization. Despite dwindling numbers and influence, Lee still heads a state- wide band of 340 local unions and 250,000 employees, a giant voting bloc. Its political endorsement can still swing an election. More willing than past union chiefs to work with other viewpoints, namely the GOP. Chief challenge ahead? Persuading legislature to make corporations like Wal-Mart, Dollar General provide greater employee benefits.

No.80 JACK MURRAH
President • Lyndhurst Foundation
President of the Lyndhurst Foundation, a private group that provides support for environmental conservation, public school reform, downtown and inner-city revitalization, and cultural activities, primarily in Chattanooga and the surrounding region, including projects such as the Riverwalk and the Tennessee Aquarium. Founder of the Center of Documentary Studies at Duke University. Currently serves on the boards of the National Center for Family Philanthropy, Community Impact of Chattanooga and the Tennessee Aquarium. Also a member of the Mayor’s Community Education Alliance in Chattanooga. Recently appointed by Governor Bredesen as the citizen representative to the Tennessee Higher Education Commission.

No.79 PAUL SUMMERS
Attorney General • State of Tennessee
Most likely candidate to fill any impending vacancy on the Tennessee Supreme Court given Justice Adolphus Birch’s poor health and the likely retirement soon of others on the bench. Tennessee’s top consumer advocate. State’s chief legal advisor, shadowing many legislative issues. Prosecutes all criminal cases in appellate courts. Supreme Court appointee by statute, a process many believe shrinks the proper role of an AG in Tennessee to that of an executive secretary. Popular election, they contend, would lead to greater advocacy and prosecutorial vigor similar to that of Elliot Spitzer, the New York AG currently investigating payola on Music Row.

No.78 Henry Turley
CEO • Henry Turley Co.
A beacon of New Urbanism in Tennessee. Fifteen years ago turned the Harbor Town concept in downtown Memphis into reality with cooperation from Belz Enterprises. The duo purchased Mud Island from the FDIC in 1988 for a 130-acre residential development with homes, a marina and an $8.8 million hotel. South Bluffs is another successful development. Well-known for preserving historic downtown buildings while adding modern amenities. Involved with Belz Enterprises in uptown developments.

No.77 W. ALLAN JONES
Chairman • Jones Management Services
Powerful because of his wealth, the direct result of providing services to a clientele that banks and traditional financial institutions don’t serve. Pioneered the check cashing industry in Cleveland, Tenn., in 1993 following two decades growing his family’s credit bureau business into the largest credit collection agency in Tennessee. Owns numerous Check into Cash payday advance centers nationwide, a billion-dollar annual enterprise. Major philanthropist who has rebuilt portions of Cleveland and granted large gifts to the University of Tennessee, including $4 million for a world class aquatic facility. A significant donor to President George W. Bush.

No.76 BILL EVANS
Director & CEO • St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Last year replaced Dr. Arthur Nienhuis as fifth individual to hold the top position at internationally recognized St. Jude. Worked under all four of his predecessors. Leads research hospital with daily operating costs of more than $1 million, working to find cures and save children with cancer. St. Jude sees about 4,700 patients every year. Evans joined St. Jude staff in 1976 and has published more than 250 research articles. His genetic research is aimed at fighting leukemia.

No.75 BOB COOPER
Chief Legal Counsel • Gov. Bredesen Administration
Probably the most important person in the state few have ever heard of. The person both Bredesen and House leadership go to with questions about nuances and technical legal issues surrounding legislation. Formerly the preeminent expert on campaign finance issues in the state for Democrats. The lead in negotiations with TennCare enrollee advocate Gordon Bonnyman (#8). Can generally be spotted at the right hand of Bredesen during any speech, media briefing or public appearance dotting the governor’s I’s, crossing his T’s and minding, from a legal perspective, Bredesen’s P’s and Q’s.

No.74 PHIL FULMER
Head football coach • University of Tennessee
State and university ambassador. Doesn’t walk on water like Pat Summit (#45) but is greatly admired in Knoxville and across the state, wielding power channeled through the prestige and stature of position. Has maintained consistently successful program, the key to happiness of football fans and university backers statewide. Top recruiter with the longest tenure among SEC coaches. Recently signed new seven-year contract extension worth over $2 million annually, making him nation’s third highest paid head coach. Analysis has shown his team’s performance on Saturdays in Knoxville can tilt the city’s economy up or down on sales tax captures.

No.73 DONNA HILLEY
President & CEO
Sony/ATV/Tree/Acuff-Rose Music Publishing
Surviving a near-death illness in 2004 and returning to lead the publishing behemoth to record growth is a testament to the tenacity of Music Row's most successful publishing executive, a working legend respected on the Row for her deal-making. Orchestration of the 2002 acquisition of Acuff-Rose proved a shrewd move. Treating Sony/ATV/Tree and Acuff-Rose as one company triggered a 30% growth spurt. Family atmosphere Hilley instills at workplace has secured fierce loyalty from employees, which, as evidenced by company numbers, translates to great productivity.

No.72 SONNY DEMENT
Chairman • Dement Construction Co.
Publicity-shy patriarch of the family running the most efficient road construction firm in the state. Dement “dug the company out of the ground,” in the words of one of his three sons, Bill, Joe and Alan, who are running the business. Dement Construction is often at the top of TDOT’s list of road builders, having paved hundreds of miles of roadways in Tennessee. Last year, the company had 32 active contracts with TDOT for a total of $158 million, including the $65.5 million I-40 project.

No.71 FLOYD REESE
Executive vice president, general manager & director of football operations
Tennessee Titans
Ultimately responsible for the success or failure of Titans franchise. Manages team’s salary cap, deciding who stays or goes each year, including icons like Eddie George. Negotiates all contracts. Oversees team draft of new players. Considered one of the best personnel managers in the NFL who has kept the Titans largely competitive despite annual roster shakeups. Integral to team’s decision to re-stock or re-build. In a year when Titans owner Bud Adams allowed several of his coaches to openly pursue positions with other teams, Adams sent letters to various interested franchises denying access to Reese.

No.70 MACK COOPER
Senior advisor on legislation & policy
Gov. Bredesen Administration
Bredesen’s legislative deal-maker. Recently stepped up from the #2 position to replace super-lobbyist Anna Windrow, a velvet glove, who succeeded with style. Cooper succeeds with muscle. Always roaming the halls of Capitol Hill pulling in votes for Bredesen’s legislative packages, either through sheer force of character or by dispensing of favors to fence-riding lawmakers. Paid his dues as longtime staffer for both TRA and Gov. Ned Ray McWherter. Was once close to being elected to the House in a contested Northeast Tennessee election. As the story goes, McWherter asked him not to fight it, Cooper obliged, and a career was spawned.

No.69 COLIN REED
Chairman & CEO • Gaylord Entertainment Co.
Took on additional role of chairman in 2004. Has turned around the stock price trend at Gaylord Entertainment Co. Opened Texas resort, bought ResortQuest and finalized plans for a D.C.-area complex in 2004. Masterfully extracted company from ill-conceived $80 million naming rights agreement with Predators for downtown Nashville arena. As owner of Grand Ole Opry, WSM-AM and the Opryland Resort and Convention Center, serves as a gatekeeper to the state’s vital tourism industry. Gaylord’s involvement through Reed in the annual Music City Bowl game is probably the only reason it remains in existence.

No.68 LINDA MCCARTY
Executive Director
Tennessee State Employees Association
Represents 43,000 state employees and has successfully lobbied lawmakers for workers’ salary increases. Greeneville native last year succeeded in obtaining a 3% raise for state employees, $73 million for pension plan funding, and $27 million to pay state’s portion of health insurance costs. Struggles to protect state employees even as Tennessee’s budget has tightened in recent years. Former educator has led the organization for more than a decade.

No.67 BARBARA HYDE
Philanthropist
Go-to philanthropist in Memphis. Half of one of Memphis’ most wealthy and generous couples. Heads Hyde Family Foundation with husband Pitt Hyde. Donated $6 million to the Memphis for the Arts campaign. Heads Hyde foundation that committed $1.3 million to a new program that it helped attract to Memphis—New Leaders for New Schools aims to develop a new generation of high-performing school principals. Part owner of the Memphis Grizzlies basketball team, which she helped recruit to the city.

No.66 JEFF WADSWORTH
Director • Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)
A United Kingdom transplant, who in his own words came to the United States with very little, Wadsworth was tabbed in 2003 to run the Battelle-managed Oak Ridge facility. Will have to stretch $738 million in 2006 funding it expects to receive from the Department of Energy, a 2.3% decline from this year’s $756 million. It’s not an easy task given the world-renowned facilities that house the Cray Supercomputer and the Spallation Neutron Source, a $1.4 billion research complex currently under construction. Scraped together funding from other federal agencies to help ORNL achieve its $1 billion budget goal this year.

No.65 TONY GIARRATANA
Real estate developer
Has emerged as a power hitter among developers in Nashville. Plotting The Signature Tower, the tallest building yet to be built in Nashville at 55 stories. In partnership with Atlanta-based Novare Group, Giarratana is currently building The Viridian, a $55 million, 225-unit condo tower in downtown Nashville next to the historic L&C tower. Recently bought the long-vacant American Trust building. Put a bid on the historic Benny-Dillon apartment property downtown, with condo conversion in mind.

No.64 JOE GALANTE
Chairman • RCA Label Group Nashville
Living, breathing Music Row legend long ago credited with bringing profitable business model to Nashville. Helms dominant country record label group. Scored three of 10 best-selling country albums in 2004. First label group in history to have three country albums reach #1 on Billboard’s pop charts in calendar year. Off to a bang in 2005. Flagship artist Kenny Chesney sold 300,000 copies of his new, single-less album upon its release. RLG-Nashville is a unit of Sony BMG Music; however, Galante maintains local control of Nashville-based Arista Nashville, BNA Records and RCA Records imprints, a rarity in today’s music industry.

No.63 PAUL STANTON
President • East Tennessee State University
Medical doctor who became president of the state school in 1997. Well-liked leader has been pushing the state to locate a new pharmacy program at ETSU, which has raised enough money to set up such a program without state funding. Has led an initiative to increase the size of ETSU’s nursing program by 50%. Namesake, along with Dr. Carl Gerber, of Stanton-Gerber Hall, the $36 million basic sciences building that was dedicated in 2002. One of five Tennesseans on the board of the Southern Regional Education Board, on which he serves as vice chair.

No.62 KIM MCMILLAN
House Majority Leader
Tennessee General Assembly
Could one day be Tennessee’s first female governor. Chairman of House Rules committee, dictating how work transpires on Capitol Hill. Largely does Speaker Naifeh’s work in the referral of bills, determining where they go to pass or die in committee. Handles Gov. Bredesen’s entire legislative package in the House, rallying Democratic Caucus around it. A trial lawyer who carried Bredesen’s workers’ comp reform bill in the House, defending it as the right thing to do. Extremely cool under pressure and not someone opponents enjoy wrangling with. Husband was recently appointed a judge in Montgomery County.

No.61 TED WELCH
GOP fundraiser & investor
The dean of political fundraisers in Tennessee who has mentored most or all of the top state fundraisers of the current day. Real estate maven with dozens of properties in Nashville. Though fresh fundraising blood in the state GOP ranks like Pete DeLay have signaled a changing of the guard, Welch nevertheless remains a formidable bag man in the state and national party (11-year finance chairman Republican National Committee). Longtime ally of Lamar Alexander (#7) who paved the former governor’s 2002 road to the U.S. Senate through his fundraising skill.

No.60 JOHN TANNER
Congressman • U.S. House of Representatives
Founder, congressional Blue Dog Coalition, powerful group of moderate Democrats in Washington. Force across broad swath of West Tennessee. Has federal funding for a new port on the Mississippi River in Tiptonville, which will bring significant flow of commerce to that rural, impoverished area, nearly sown up. (See story, pg. 11.) Also spearheading push for federal creation of proposed I-69 interstate through West Tennessee, another major economic spur. Member of powerful House Ways and Means Committee, holding sway over proposed social security reform. Recently used committee time to grouse to Treasury Secretary John Snow about America’s debt and share of U.S. securities owned by foreigners.

No.59 FRED DECOSIMO
Principal • Joseph Decosimo & Co.
Aman of understated impact. Investor and accountant. Partner in one of the nation’s 100 largest accounting firms. Has respectfully stood with his father Joe (“The Godfather of Fundraising” for Chattanooga charities) and now has stature in his own right in political fundraising and com- munity involvement. Highly respected by so many in Chattanooga politics and business. When Fred speaks, people there listen. When he invests in your company, people talk about it. Close with Mercer Reynolds, finance head for Bush-Cheney. One of just 15 Tennesseans with Pioneer or Ranger status with the campaign.

No.58 PEDRO GARCIA
Superintendent
Metro-Davidson County Schools
Three years into the job, the results haven’t come for the highest profile school chief in Tennessee. Promised upon arrival to stay until improvements came, estimating a minimum five-year run. Burned up much of his remaining good will last year when he publicly informed the Miami, Fla., school board he’d accept an open position if offered. Finished second. Now Garcia’s candle is flickering after a long honeymoon period. Almost certainly seeking work in other systems following his Miami experience. Still, for the time being at least, the man responsible for Nashville’s roughly 70,000-student, 130-school, $500 million budget school system.

No.57 HARRY JACOBSON
Vice Chancellor of Health Affairs
Vanderbilt University
Heads massive Vanderbilt University Medical Center, the largest private employer in Middle Tennessee. Oversees 658-bed Vanderbilt University Hospital, which admits roughly 34,000 patients and generates about $1.3 billion in revenue a year. Working to reform medical education through evidence-based medicine, the recommended care-management processes. Leading the development of several new facilities and clinics on campus. Significant individual shareholder of Nashville-based dialysis services company Renal Care Group, which he co-founded.

No.56 CAROL JOHNSON
School Superintendent • Memphis City Schools
Holds what one Memphis executive describes as “the most daunting job in Memphis.” Directs Memphis school district of more than 118,000 students. With less than two years on the job, Johnson has been a tough manager working to change the struggling system of 178 schools. Earlier this year, announced controversial plans to close schools to help the city’s school system cut costs. Helped to raise several Memphis schools out of the “failing list” without much funding at her disposal. Oversees 15,000 school system employees.

No.55 STEPHEN REYNOLDS
President & CEO
Baptist Memorial Healthcare Corp.
Head of Memphis-based system of 15 hospitals in Tennessee, Arkansas and Mississippi, with a total of nearly 2,600 licensed beds. Veteran for 32 years with Baptist Memorial Health Care, named CEO in 1994. Known for collaborative efforts with cross-town CEO Gary Shorb of the Methodist Healthcare hospital system. Past chair of Memphis Regional Chamber. Gifted Baptist’s downtown property to the Memphis Biotech Foundation in 2001 after “making the painful decision” to close the downtown medical center, which was suffering from low patient volume. Serves on many national boards, including Memphis-based Ducks Unlimited.

No.54 JACK BELZ
Belz Enterprises
Changed the face of Downtown Memphis when he bought The Peabody Hotel in 1975 and later eight city blocks that now include Belz Enterprises’ Peabody Place. Oversees more than 30 million square feet of developed property holdings in Memphis, Nashville, Pigeon Forge, other states and Puerto Rico. One of the drivers of Uptown Partnership, a Memphis public-private revitalization effort. The partnership recently opened Elvis Presley’s former apartment for overnight stays.

No.53 BILL BAXTER
Director • Tennessee Valley Authority
Soon could be replaced by a new CEO under a plan that replaces TVA’s 70-year-old management structure and calls for shuttering the current three-person board at the top of the federal corporation. Baxter was recently the sole critic of TVA’s debt reduction target, which in his opinion was too low. Leads efforts to brace for competition amid workforce cuts. Former state ECD chief is busy repaying TVA’s multi-billion-dollar debt and cutting nitrogen oxide emissions from coal-fired power plants, which amount to 12% of the Tennessee Valley’s nitrogen oxide emissions.

No.52 ZACH WAMP
Congressman • U.S. House of Representatives
The only appropriator in Tennessee’s congressional delegation voting where federal money goes. Even Tennessee’s Democratic congressmen recently urged Wamp to forego 1994 promise to serve just six terms given his appropriations seat of power. Also on the Homeland Security Committee, significant given he represents both Chattanooga and Oak Ridge. Charismatic leader with ample street smarts, enjoys almost cult-like following among leaders in East Tennessee. Father of the Tennessee Valley Technology Corridor. A developing powerhouse in the House striving for a leadership role.

No.51 GENE CALDWELL
Chairman
Tennessee Health Services & Development Agency
Serving second term as head of the state agency that decides whether health care projects sink or swim. Legislation passed during his first term as chairman allows the head of the agency to serve multiple terms. Turn- over among other agency board members leaves Caldwell with highly respected institutional knowledge of the certificate of need process. Loyal defender of traditional hospitals with emergency departments to provide safety net of care. One health care industry veteran says Caldwell “takes no prisoners.” Fends off competitors that could threaten the viability of community hospitals by snuffing out new models and new players before they can set up shop.

No.50 LOIS DEBERRY
House Speaker Pro Tempore
Tennessee General Assembly
First African-American and first female House Speaker pro tempore in state history. In that position, gets a vote on every committee in the House if she wants it. Used that power to stymie NRA efforts to allow guns in restaurants serving alcohol just by walking in on the committee room proceedings. Speaker Naifeh’s power source due to her ability to deliver him the black legislative caucus votes he needs to remain speaker—otherwise Randy Rinks might be speaker. President emeritus, national black caucus of state lawmakers. President, National Leaders Foundation, an organization comprised of state lawmakers throughout America.

No.49 DAVID MCMAHAN
Lobbyist
McMahan Winstead Government Relations
Capitol Hill’s most effective lobbyist. Long client list includes State Farm, Philip Morris, Dell and Tennessee Titans. He gets it done for each of them. Translates into a lot of PAC money McMahan gets to dole out. Thus he is loved and welcomed equally in the offices of Democratic and Republican leaders. All lobbyists contend to be nonpartisan, able to play both sides. McMahan is the only one who actually does. Has assisted Gov. Phil Bredesen’s administration but also is a Republican well positioned to benefit from new GOP control of Senate.

No.48 MIKE CURB
Owner • Curb Records
No one on Music Row has gone so far out of their way to put a permanent mark on Nashville as a whole. Donations to Belmont University (the arena and music business school are named after him) alone secure Curb’s Nashville legacy. Independently battles big five global record companies and is more than competitive in the country genre. Curb Records artists include Tim McGraw and LeeAnn Rimes. Unlike most Nashville label heads answering to bosses in New York and Los Angeles, the buck starts and stops with Curb. Former Lt. Gov. of California. Finance chair, 2002, gubernatorial hopeful Van Hilleary.

No.47 JOHN “THUNDER” THORNTON
Chairman • Thunder Enterprises
In charge of a powerful investment and real estate development firm. Backs former Chattanooga Mayor Bob Corker in U.S. Senate campaign. The former president of American Rug Crafts- men, Thornton is the power behind many a land development in Wyoming and Tennessee. Among the most recent ones is Tennessee National, a 1,450-acre residential property Thornton bought from Eastman Chemical for $10 million. The development is slated to feature a Greg Norman-designed golf course, tennis courts, parks and a marina. Member of U.T. board of trustees. Gives generously to the school.

No.46 WAYMON HICKMAN
Founder & Chairman
First Farmers & Merchants Bank
For years, a constant force in banking in Tennessee. His Columbia-based, six-county bank, with 20 branches and $814 million in assets ($2 billion in assets held by its trust department), just keeps growing. The bank is rural yet sophisticated, competitive with larger banks, rock steady, somewhat under the radar—a mirror image of its founder. Confidant to three decades of Tennessee governors, regardless of party affiliation. Connected in many different ways, including with fellow Columbia-based Farm Bureau. Still runs Maury County, one of the fastest-growing counties in America. Political candidates there must address him in order to move forward.

No.45 PAT SUMMIT
Lady Vols basketball coach
University of Tennessee
Built and sustains women’s basketball. Has not lost one ounce of enthusiasm in her 30 years as teacher, recruiter and advocate. Prefers to focus on next game (home games draw 14,000-plus spectators) rather than on legacy (she is the only women’s coach with over 800 wins). So popular she was nominated for the open position of U.T. president in 2003. Politely declined. Could be as formidable a national political candidate as former Nebraska football coach Tom Osbourne was in rising easily to U.S. Senator. WNBA consultant, a league for which she has provided the template and supplied many of its stars.

No.44 JOHNNY HAYES
Political Consultant • Tennessee Democratic Party
Like Michael Houley on the national level, a guy the average Tennessean has never heard of but who can usually propel political candidates to victory. Has a hand in everything that occurs in the Democratic Party in Tennessee. Polished in the art of political organization. Knows where to put people and how to build coalitions. Trusted advisor to governor but well-placed outside administration. Exercised muscle getting state Democratic Party chairman Randy Button to recently re-up for two more years while convincing state party faithful that Button remains the man for the job.

No.43 JERRY WINTERS
Lobbyist • Tennessee Education Association (TEA)
Chief lobbyist for an enormous voting bloc, 40,000 teachers, with a seat at the table of every significant public education policy discussion on Capitol Hill. An indefatigable defender of the status quo as evidenced by his handiwork in poisoning the state’s original charter school legislation and by the fact that Tennessee’s public education system chronically ranks among America’s worst. Power enhanced by Bredesen’s selection of his then chief legal counsel and top assistant, Patrick Smith, to serve the governor’s legislative lobbying team on education issues. Integral to the creation and expansion of Bredesen’s new pre-K initiative.

No.42 DAVE GOETZ
Commissioner of Finance & Administration
State of Tennessee
Leads sprawling state department that under former Gov. Don Sundquist became the dumping ground for troubled state agencies, including TennCare. Has steadily emerged from boss Gov. Bredesen’s shadow in handling state finances. Writes the state budget. Possesses encyclopedic knowledge of the machinations of state government even at bureaucratic bottom layers, a huge asset to Bredesen. May also be Bredesen’s best lobbyist. Well respected by lawmakers. Smartly brought back to state government Metro Councilman Jim Shulman, a former chief of staff to Speaker Jimmy Naifeh, who was in the McWherter administration and is close to many members of the General Assembly.

No.41 STEVE GILL
Conservative talk show commentator
Supertalk 99.7 WTN-Nashville
It’s said don’t make war with a man who buys ink by the barrel. The same could be said for a man with a 100,000-watt microphone. No legislator wants to get crossways with Gill (though it’s not hard to do). So ruthless can Gill’s assault on bad behavior be that lawmakers consider his possible reaction when considering whether to take some actions. When certain elements of the General Assembly want to get their message out, Gill is the first person they call. Likely to expand into the Jackson, Memphis and Chattanooga radio markets over the next 12 months.

No.40 CHARLES FARMER
Mayor • City of Jackson
Well-connected, powerful mayor speaks his mind, even when his words rankle fellow Jacksonians. Exercises great control over city council. Served as mayor for more than a dozen years. Advocate of a metropolitan government that would combine the governments of Jackson and Madison counties. Active personally in seeking federal funds to support Jackson’s post-tornado redevelopment. Hired Washington, D.C., lobbyist, a move that led to more than $2.5 million to install mobile data terminals in police cars.

No.39 JACK B. TURNER
President • Jack B. Turner & Associates
One of the highest-profile insurance brokers. Lauded as a “maverick” because he chose to chart his own course instead of joining the lucrative beer distribution business of his dad, the famous Ajax Turner. Founding president of Leadership Clarks- ville, active with Middle Tennessee Community Foundation, Austin Peay State University Foundation, as well as the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce. Record-breaking philanthropist in Clarksville. Life member of the Million Dollar Round- table, an elite club for insurance agents.

No.38 RICHARD LAND
President
The Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission
Was named “God’s Lobbyist” on Time magazine’s list of 25 Most Influential Evangelicals in America, where he appeared with Billy and Franklin Graham. Some Nashville evangelicals envy his connections to the Bush White House and his role in shaping the President’s agenda. Chief ideologue at the Southern Baptist Convention, whose ultraconservative course for the flock of 16 million helped the President get reelected. Tireless in leading the self-proclaimed war on behalf of all Christendom against homosexuality, amorality and foreign religions.

No.37 MIKE RAGSDALE
Mayor • Knox County
Peacemaker with reputation for going to great lengths to reach compromise. For better or worse, recently waded into protracted lawsuit between county commissioner and county sheriff. Also brokered utility-landowner compromise over contentious land issue. Ambitious politician long considered leading future gubernatorial contender, but whom some now believe will have to work hard to get re-elected county mayor next year. Took political step backward in 2004, some believe, by spearheading $30 wheel tax increase. Passage, in lieu of threat of a property tax hike, generated new funds for employee salaries and economic development.

No.36 DOLLY PARTON
Entertainer & Entrepreneur
Tennessee’s triple threat: One of the state’s most-recognized entertainers, leading tourism spokesperson and champion of children’s literacy. Actress, songwriter and singer who continues to record after more than 60 albums and earning a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999. Entrepreneur behind Pigeon Forge’s Dollywood amusement park, which draws about two million visitors each year to the Smokies. Started Imagination Library to encourage parents to read to their children, a model used in other states and currently being expanded here in Tennessee.

No.35 GERALD NICELY
Commissioner of Transportation
State of Tennessee
Has succeeded in doing what Gov. Phil Bredesen hired him to do—make the state transportation program once again answerable to state taxpayers. Employed iron will to put powerful road builders lobby in check with other state needs. The relative quiet within the industry given back-to-back years of cuts to the roads budget, the elimination of planned projects and an increase in the solicitation of public input is proof Nicely has his ship in order. Despite the cultural shift led by Nicely, the state’s roads remain in the top five nationally, according to a national trucker’s magazine.

No.34 JULIUS JOHNSON
Chief lobbyist • Tennessee Farm Bureau
The smiling face of the most powerful lobby watching over the state’s legislative process. Represents, to lawmakers, the voice of the largest Farm Bureau Federation in the United States based on membership and one of the top insurance companies in Tennessee. One of only two members of the tax study commission to vote against endorsing an income tax. His greatest challenge ahead will be to hold off a proposed statewide property tax. Likely must make a choice between the two. Approval or disapproval can also launch or stymie a political career.

No.33 DAVE RAMSEY
Radio Talk Show Host & author
The Dave Ramsey Show
Popular radio talk show host who bestows money management wisdom on more than 230 stations nationwide, as well as XM and Sirius Radio. Has been heard by more than 341,000 people at one of his live, five-hour shows. Also heads Finan- cial Peace University, a 13-week course that counts more than 150,000 families as graduates. Has written five best-selling books. Recently named to TALKERS Magazine’s list of the Top 100 Radio Talk Show Hosts in the Nation, known as the “Heavy Hitters.” Also won Radio Inks’ readers’ choice award.

No.32 BILL HASLAM
Mayor • City of Knoxville
True businessman in government, not a politician. Expended surprisingly little political capital pushing through 35-cent property tax hike in 2004. Relative modesty of hike, some say, offers proof Haslam will build the city through business development, not on the backs of taxpayers. But the clock is ticking (there have been no highly significant victories yet), and increases in Knoxville’s annual revenue growth must occur on his watch. Filled big political shoes of 16-year Knox- ville mayor Victor Ashe. Son of “Big Jim” Haslam (#5).

No.31 JOHN GREGORY
Founder & former executive
King Pharmaceuticals
Via political action committees, poured over $750,000 in personal wealth into state legislative races in November 2004 elections in support of conservative Republican candidates favoring constitutional amendments on morality issues. Fol- lowed up with $250,000 more to the state GOP post-election. Vilified by Democrats as dirty money source (King Pharmaceuticals is currently under SEC investigation for Medicaid fraud), but Tennessee voters largely backed his candidates. Philanthropy, sources say, is quite large, but focused on efforts outside the country—for instance to hospitals in India.

No.30 GILBERT E. PATTERSON
Presiding Bishop • Church of God in Christ
Presides over flock of five million members of the Memphis-based Church of God in Christ (COGIC). Named by Pentecostal pastors as having a major influence on American churches and church leaders. Founded the 12,000-member Temple of Deliverance in Memphis and Bountiful Blessings Ministries, internationally viewed television programming. Influential in the city’s large African-American community. Humboldt native has been a gospel minister for nearly five decades. Has organized seven churches across the country.

No.29 A.C. WHARTON JR.
County Mayor • Shelby County
Approachable county mayor who, in the public eye, is eclipsing Memphis Mayor Willie Herenton, a foil to Wharton. Faces reelection next year for a second four-year term. Grassroots effort to garner community support suits his affable disposition. Seeking alternative revenue sources to property tax increases to reign in massive county government debt. Appointed to the Tennessee Higher Edu- cation Commission and has served as chairman of Methodist Healthcare and as a member of the University of Memphis’ Board of Visitors.

No.28 PHIL WILLIAMS
Investigative reporter
WTVF Channel 5 Nashville
When Williams walks into Legislative Plaza, doors slam, lawmakers duck into offices and e-mails start circulating throughout the building announcing his arrival. Not another journalist in the state is feared in that way on Capitol Hill. Followed up award-winning year uncovering no bid state contracts given by former Gov. Don Sundquist to friends—one indictment against prominent Nashville businessman Al Ganier came to fruition—with continued coverage of unethical behavior by prominent state Sen. Jerry Cooper and the unearthing of another potential bid-rigging scandal in the state’s road-building industry. His reports are followed closely across the state.

No.27 SCOTT NISWONGER
CEO • Landair
Turned a $2,000 investment into a $175 million personal net worth since the founding of truckload and cargo company Landair in 1981. Tight with state political leaders. Top philanthropist in Greene County—gave $2 million to his hometown school district in Ohio. Niswonger’s name is everywhere in the Tri-Cities. Majority shareholder of Landair Transport and chairman of Forward Air Corp., which boast a combined annual revenue of $370 million. Awarded an honorary Doctorate of Technology by his alma mater, Purdue University.

No.26 JIM AYERS
Owner & Chairman • FirstBank
Got his start in the nursing home business before starting Lexington-based FirstBank. Founded the Ayers Foundation in 1999 to provide scholarships—more than 600 high school students in West Tennessee have received financial support from the foundation to attend college. Parsons native donated $5 million to West Tennessee Healthcare Foundation, marking the largest gift in the history of Jackson-Madison County General Hospital, allowing the hospital to consolidate and expand pediatric services into the Ayers Children’s Medical Center. Strong political connections have aided business endeavors.

No.25 BRIAN FERGUSON
CEO • Eastman Chemical
The 28-year Eastman veteran has been leading the Kingsport plastics operation since 2002. With its share price on the rise in the past year, Eastman is fighting to generate new divisions within the company that will improve its future standing and relevance in the finicky plastics and polymers market. With $159 million in annual research spending, Eastman inspired analysts to applaud its January sale of Genecor International division for $419 million in cash.

No.24 DAVE COOLEY
Deputy Governor • State of Tennessee
Public relations/political strategy whiz credited with his boss Gov. Phil Bredesen’s lack of missteps in office and Teflon-like political existence. Operations CEO to Bredesen the visionary chairman. Stung by a much-publicized story alleging preferential treatment in the elimination of a speeding ticket. Despite that episode, Cooley’s power actually climbed in the past year as a result of the resignation of senior advisor Anna Windrow, with whom Cooley must now no longer compete in influencing Bredesen. When a divergence of opinion arises within the administration, Bredesen almost always breaks Cooley’s way.

No.23 JIM CLAYTON
Founder • Clayton Homes/FSB Bancshares
Sale of his manufactured home business to renowned investor Warren Buffett brought national recognition to the Clayton name, credibility and punch to East Tennessee’s economy and reputation, and cemented Clayton’s legend in Tennessee business history. Proceeds from sale could make profound venture capital impact on region. More recent $4 billion purchase of manufactured housing loan portfolio from Chase made Knoxville indisputable global hub of manufactured home mortgage lending. Profitably consolidating that niche of the mortgage market. Business and jobs impact on East Tennessee has been as large as anyone’s. Shows no signs of slowing in the growth of his statewide community bank empire, FSB Bancshares.

No.22 HAROLD FORD JR.
Congressman • U.S. House of Representatives
A 2006 Democratic Senate candidate whose appeal is broad. One of only two black members of the congressional Blue Dog Coalition, Ford creates a moderate appeal to independents and even some Republicans. African American and from an urban district in Memphis—a candidate obviously appealing to the Democratic base. At 34 (already a five-term congressman), an attractive candidate for young voters who otherwise might not turn out. Still, many believe the talked-about future presidential contender will eventually back away from 2006 Senate run given the considerable political risk of being a black Democratic candidate running statewide at the current juncture.

No.21 GORDON GEE
Chancellor • Vanderbilt University
Loved by students—an item only a handful of chancellors can put on their résumé. With his trademark collection of bow ties, presides over an institution that claims an annual economic impact of $3.7 billion and remains the largest Tennessee-based private employer of state residents. Among several transforming decisions, signed off on scrapping the athletic director’s post and merging athletics into a student wellness department. Stepped up efforts to commercialize R&D generated at the school and its medical research center.

No. 20 JACK BOVENDER
Chairman & CEO • HCA
Stepping up hospital giant HCA’s role in the outpatient surgery sector as patient volume in that area outpaces traditional hospital in-patient stays. Led the Nashville-based company to earn $1.25 billion in profit in 2004. Works to change hospital chain’s policies to offer fair discounts to uninsured patients, a growing national group that has been driving hospitals costs. Recently realized a $9 million profit from exercising options and selling shares of HCA for the first time since returning to the company in 1997 after having left for early retirement in 1992.

No.19 JIM MOSS
CEO • West Tennessee Healthcare
Controls empire of Jackson-based nonprofit system that spans six hospitals in a position he first filled in 1986. West Tennessee Healthcare is one of the largest employers in the area. Oversees major $90 million construction projects that are growing flagship Jackson General Hospital. Louisiana native was awarded Robert E. Craig Service Award from Union University in December for efforts to grow the hospital’s relationship with the university. West Tennessee Healthcare in June 2004 approved a $3 million gift to Union University, one of the largest gifts in the school’s history.

No.18 KEN GLASS
Chairman & CEO • First Horizon National Corp.
Relatively new at the helm of First Horizon but a 31-year veteran of the financial institution that recently changed its corporate name to reflect expansion beyond the First Tennessee brand. With dominant consumer and business market position in Tennessee, First Horizon is growing market share in the state and expanding into the Washington, D.C. area, Georgia and Texas. Leads nearly 13,000 employees. First Horizon earned $454 million in profit last year. Director on FedEx Corp.’s board. (See article below.)

No.17 RON RAMSEY
Senate Majority Leader
Tennessee General Assembly
Drives the issues in the GOP-controlled State Senate. Post committee appointments, Lt. Gov. Wilder is now just a spectator at Ramsey’s party. Exercises tremendous clout both in terms of leadership in the political and policy arena. Moving forward swiftly and successfully the conservative agenda of the state Republican Party, including pushing through constitutional amendments. Largely owns the 17 votes in the Senate that Gov. Phil Bredesen needs. A sure bet for Lt. Gov. when Wilder finally steps aside. A much talked about GOP gubernatorial candidate in 2008 or future 1st District congressman representing Tri-Cities.

No.16 WILLIE HERENTON
Mayor • City of Memphis
Picked by voters to serve four terms as Memphis’ mayor. Feisty leader who frequently butts heads with the City Council. Leading Memphis through downtown’s $1.3 billion redevelopment. Called out executives of Memphis Light, Gas and Water for receiving higher salaries than directors of city divisions, which was followed by an announcement by the utility’s president that he and several other executives would not take raises this year. Proponent of merging financially struggling city school system with Shelby County system.

No.15 MARSHA BLACKBURN
Congresswoman • U.S. House of Representatives
As responsible as anyone for enacting federal legislation in 2004 allowing Tennesseans to deduct state sales tax on federal taxes, a feat many from Tennessee’s congressional delegation tried but failed to accomplish through the years. Rising star in national Republican circles recently appointed to Energy and Com- merce Committee with the broadest jurisdiction in federal government. Still a darling of the Beltway news gang. Represents geographic swath stretching from Memphis across the state to affluent Williamson County to Ft. Campbell. Citing rapid emergence in House, opted not to pursue open Senate seat—for now. A viable future senatorial or gubernatorial candidate.

No.14 THOMAS FRIST JR.
HCA Co-Founder & Philanthropist
King of Nashville’s health care industry as co-founder and former head of nation’s largest for-profit hospital chain HCA, which last year generated $23.5 billion in revenue. Now reigns as chairman emeritus and a director of the company, in which he is the largest individual shareholder with about 17 million shares worth roughly $700 million. Chairs The Frist Foundation, the driving force behind Nashville’s Frist Center for the Visual Arts.

No.13 BILL PURCELL
Mayor • Metro Nashville-Davidson County
Brokered a deal incredibly favorable for taxpayers on the construction of a new minor league baseball stadium in downtown Nashville, insulating citizens from risk on construction and operation—quite in contrast with sports deals consummated by former Nashville mayor Phil Bredesen. Focused on core government functions, effectively led Nashville through recent lean years with modest growth and multiple corporate relocations. Talked-about Democratic Senatorial candidate in 2006 but a much more likely gubernatorial candidate (following a third mayoral term) in 2010. Former House majority leader with proven Capitol Hill skills.

No.12 JOHN PETERSEN
President • University of Tennessee
Rolled up his sleeves last July and resolved to redefine the public perception of the top job at U.T. As the school’s 23rd president, the former University of Connecticut’s academics chief is working quietly and mostly behind the scenes—a very different approach from previous president John Shumaker, whose ouster caused the school much discomfort. “You don’t see him much, but he’s working hard,” is the view from one U.T. insider. Currently busy overhauling the school’s graduate-level Space Institute in Tullahoma. While it might be too early to judge the fruits of Petersen’s efforts, his sporting an orange tie during his first public appearance on the job last year suggests the right attitude.

No.11 BOB CORKER
Mayor • City of Chattanooga
Money-wise, the leading 2006 Senate candidate. Raised over $2 million by year-end 2004, just the first three months of his campaign, a historical feat in Tennessee. In deference to Corker’s candidacy, congressman Zach Wamp (#52) put his own Senate aspirations on hold. Backers include “Big Jim” Haslam (#5) but also scores of moderate Democrats statewide. Wealthy real estate entrepreneur turned Chattanooga mayor under whose direction that city became a model for other cities nationwide. Former state finance commissioner who built statewide admiration in that role.

No.10 VICKY GREGG
President & CEO
BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee
Nurse-turned-chief executive guiding state’s largest health insurer—with more than two million members—for past two-and-a-half years. Recent Tenn- Care reform struggles underscore the importance of Blue- Cross’ role as the state’s largest TennCare provider. Appointed by Sen. Bill Frist last year to new 11-member Commission on Systemic Interoperability, started as the foundation of the nation’s new universal electronic health record system. Former regional vice president at Louisville-based insurer Humana.

No.9 JIMMY NAIFEH
House Speaker • Tennessee General Assembly
Literally king of the hill. Longest serving House Speaker in state history, recently surpassing former Gov. Ned Ray McWherter. Though his defeat in November’s general election was conjectured by many across the state, he soundly defeated his opponent to prolong his three-decade political career. Runs a tight ship in the Democratically controlled House. Power of his office is great. Decides if and when bills advance. Responsible for key appointments in House and on state commissions. Meets regularly with the governor. More so than perhaps anyone else on the list, understands his power and wields it to great effect.

No.8 GORDON BONNYMAN
Executive Director • Tennessee Justice Center
Went head-to-head with Gov. Phil Bredesen in private and very public disputes about how to reform TennCare program. Bredesen blamed attorney Bonnyman for blocking reform efforts through legal maneuvering and failure to compromise. Represented more than a million TennCare enrollees in lobbying efforts and in court. Regarded as one of the state’s most winning and brilliant lawyers. Advocate of low-income families for more than three decades. Co-founder of nonprofit organization Tennessee Justice Center.

No.7 LAMAR ALEXANDER
U.S. Senator
Former governor and past presidential candidate who attracted national attention for his education reform agenda. Recently appointed to the Senate’s influential Budget Committee. Maryville native still spends more time looking after Tennessee than the state’s senior senator. Despite a stand on Internet taxation repeatedly criticized by the pro-business editorial page of The Wall Street Journal, Alexander was named a “Hero of the Taxpayer” by Americans for Tax Reform (ATR), a self-described non-partisan taxpayer advocacy organization coalition that opposes all federal, state and local tax increases.

No.6 MARTHA INGRAM
Chairman • Ingram Industries
The patron saint of commerce and philanthropy in the Midstate, with large gifts to the Schermerhorn Symphony Hall, Vanderbilt University and the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. Last month, was ranked the 228th richest person in the world on the Forbes list with a net worth of $2.6 billion. Inherited her wealth after husband Bronson’s death in 1995. Often named the favorite businesswoman by the city’s business and political elite. A one-time classical radio DJ, Ingram’s charitable support of the arts is unparalleled in the state.

No.5 JAMES “BIG JIM” HASLAM II
Founder & Chairman • Pilot Corp.
Self-made man still highly active in operations of his multi-billion dollar, ever-expanding company, 50% owner of 13,000 employee, 40-state Pilot Travel Centers. Has had profound impact on East Tennessee from a business, philanthropic and political perspective. Still one of the state’s premiere political fundraisers. When Big Jim calls, get your checkbook ready. Bush Ranger who gave $100,000 for inauguration, among top 100 donors nationally. Closer to home held early, lucrative fundraiser for Senate candidate Bob Corker (#11). Father of Knoxville mayor Bill Haslam (#32). University of Tennessee trustee. Personifies quiet power.

No.4 PITT HYDE
Chairman
AutoZone & FedEx
Chairs and has helped fund GTx Inc., Memphis' poster child for its growing biotech industry. One of the founders of MB Venture Partners, which raised a @22.4 million first fund to invest in biotech and medical device companies. Started Memphis Biotech Foundation to promote the industry in Memphis. Founder of auto parts chain AutoZone, in which he is the largest individual shareholder. Serves as a director of FedEx and helped bring professional basketball team Grizzlies to Memphis. Philanthropist along with wife Barbara-Hyde Family Foundation grants support a variety of Memphis organizations.

No. 3 BILL FRIST
Majority Leader
U.S. Senate
A 2008 presidential candidate who recently ended first full term as Senate majority leader having further secured GOP Senate control via his unprecedented fundraising prowess. Used powers of office to reform TVA, making it look and act more like an investor-owned entity. Pushed through federal sales tax deduction bill, a boon to Tennesseans. Shepherded federal push to modify national intelligence. Social security reform lies ahead. In-state power diluted by national focus, a reality mostly overlooked by Tennesseans appreciative of his status on the national stage. Tennessee pork he provided, however, included $18 million to upgrade Chickamauga Lock on Tennessee River.

No. 2 PHIL BREDESEN
Governor
State of Tennessee
Working to dis-enroll 323,000 adults from TennCare after failing to overcome legal obstacles to reform program reducing benefits while maintaining the rolls. Solution arguably further erodes his base of Democratic support among constituents and lawmakers alike, as did his workers' comp cuts last year. His honeymoon with the legislature now over, Bredesen's current and future agendas face an empowered statehouse GOP. Saw popularity drop from the 70% to 60% range in a statewide poll taken before he took TennCare behind the barn and shot it. Oft-mentioned presidential candidate, fascinating given past political loses to Bill Boner, Bob Clement, and Don Sundquist.

No. 1 FRED SMITH
Founder, President & CEO
FedEx
One of the most influential men on the plant, not just in Tennessee. Changed the way America and the world does business. Made Memphis the center of global distribution. Company revenues match those of the state. The $25 billion transportation/logistics behemoth operates 650 aircraft, 71,000 vehicles in 215 countries. Company stock topped $100 million in 2004, a year it bought another brand name in Kinko's. By nature and design, FedEx reaps ever greater benefits of the globalizing economy. An international advocate for free trade and open skies, Smith recently got approval to double weekly FedEx flights to China. Employs 250 million people worldwide-30,000 alone in Memphis. Through sheer force of expressing his opinion, wielded that hefty Memphis employee base to defeat proposed city payroll tax.