By Lance Coleman
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Originally published at blounttoday.com

State Rep. Doug Overbey has been named “2007 Statesman of the Year” by the 650-member Tennessee Optometric Association .

The TOA was established in 1901 and its membership consists of doctors of optometry who are dedicated to improving the eye health and visual welfare of all Tennesseans. The TOA’s Statesman of the Year Award is an annual award presented to a member of the Tennessee General Assembly who promotes legislation that improves access to eye health care services in Tennessee.

“Representative Overbey distinguished himself during the past legislative session by sponsoring and passing legislation that helps in the recruitment of optometrists in areas of our state that need more eye doctors,” said Dr. Brad Lindsey, president of the Tennessee Optometric Association, in a press release. “Representative Overbey’s legislation helps existing optometric practices recruit additional providers in order to improve access to eye care for all of our citizens.”

“We are very proud of Doug’s work in the legislature,” said Dr. Gary Vines, an optometrist who practices in Maryville. “Representative Overbey has a strong record of working to improve access to health care services,” he added.

“I am honored to receive this award. I have a lot of respect for Tennessee’s optometrists, the work they do, and the patients they serve. I am glad to have been able to play a role in improving our citizens’ access to needed eye health care services,” Overbey said.

The award was presented by Dr. Gary Vines and other optometrists from Representative Overbey’s district. The presentation was made on Tuesday, Nov. 20, at 8 a.m., at the office of Dr. Vines and Dr. Clinton Maples, 901 W. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Maryville.

This entry was posted on Saturday, December 1st, 2007 at 6:26 pm and is filed under In The News.
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