by Ryan Egly
If May was about momentum, June was about partnerships.
Throughout the month, we saw businesses, educators, farmers, community leaders, and volunteers come together around a common goal: making Lawrence County stronger. Whether through workforce development, agriculture, economic development, or small business growth, the month reminded me that the progress we enjoy as a community is built through relationships and collaboration.
Welcoming New Members
We remain committed to helping our business community grow because we know that businesses support our people. In turn, businesses partner with the Chamber through membership, and we are proud to welcome several new members that joined in June:
- Legacy Lawn & Landscapes, LLC
- Caris Healthcare
- Challenger Electric and Plumbing Supplies LLC
- B&R Consulting
- georgeb.com & bst
Chamber Coffee at Hall Insurance
One of the highlights of June was our monthly Chamber Coffee hosted by Hall Insurance.
These gatherings continue to be one of the best opportunities for Chamber members to connect, build relationships, and learn more about the businesses that make our community unique. We appreciate Hall Insurance for opening their doors, sharing their story, and helping facilitate another great morning of networking and conversation.
Celebrating Agriculture
June began with one of my favorite weeks of the year: Salute to Agriculture Week. Agriculture remains one of the most important industries in Lawrence County, and this year’s celebration featured several exciting additions designed to strengthen and grow the program for years to come.
For the first time, Salute to Agriculture Week was presented through an expanded partnership between the Chamber, UT-TSU Extension, and the Middle Tennessee District Fair, led by the Lawrenceburg Rotary Club. This collaboration brought additional resources, volunteers, and support to the week’s activities and reflects the shared commitment our community has to recognizing and celebrating agriculture.
We kicked off the week with our annual Ag Appreciation Breakfast, which provides an opportunity to recognize the farmers, agribusinesses, and agricultural leaders who help drive our local economy. In addition to our normal slate of awards, we also introduced a new award: Young Farmer of the Year, recognizing emerging agricultural leaders who are helping shape the future of the industry in Lawrence County.
Our 2026 honorees included:
- Century Farm – Ellingson Farm
- Agribusiness of the Year – Loretto Milling Co.
- Young Farmer of the Year – Colby Counce
- Lifetime Achievement Award – Dr. Tim Hammond
A few days later, we gathered for our annual Farm to Table Dinner alongside UT-TSU Extension and the Middle Tennessee District Fair. Guests enjoyed a locally sourced meal prepared by Pat’s Cafe and Catering while local FFA and 4-H students served attendees throughout the evening.
We were honored to welcome Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture Andy Holt as our guest speaker. The evening concluded with our annual ham auction, and thanks to the generosity of our community, approximately $7,500 was raised to support agricultural education programs through local FFA and 4-H chapters.
Agriculture has always been central to Lawrence County’s identity. By supporting agricultural education and recognizing the next generation of producers and leaders, we are helping ensure that agriculture remains a driving force in Lawrence County for decades to come.
Investing in Workforce Development
One of the most significant events of the month was our first-ever Workforce Summit, sponsored by Lawrenceburg Utility Systems.
Workforce development continues to be one of the most important topics facing employers across Tennessee. Bringing together employers, educators, economic development professionals, and workforce partners allowed us to have deeper conversations about both current challenges and future opportunities.
We were fortunate to hear from Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development Commissioner Deniece Thomas, Lawrence County Schools Director Michael Adkins, representatives from TCAT Pulaski, the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, and other local leaders.
The summit reinforced something we already know: solving workforce challenges requires collaboration. No single organization can do it alone, but together we can continue building pathways that connect people to careers and employers to talent.
Celebrating Business Growth and Community Investment
June provided several opportunities to celebrate businesses and organizations that continue to invest in Lawrence County.
One of the month’s highlights was the ribbon cutting for Craig Manufacturing’s newest expansion at Team Lawrence Commerce Park, a Select Tennessee Certified Site. The company’s $4.4 million investment will create 30 new jobs and further strengthen its presence in Lawrence County.
Announcements like this are always exciting because they demonstrate confidence. Companies choose to expand where they believe they can succeed, and Craig Manufacturing’s continued growth is another example of the strength of Lawrence County’s workforce, business climate, and long-term economic outlook. Existing industry expansions often tell the most important economic development story because they reflect the experiences of companies already doing business here.
We were also excited to host a ribbon cutting for Blue Haven Formals, a new bridal and formalwear boutique offering a personalized, appointment-only experience for brides and families throughout the region. Small businesses like Blue Haven Formals contribute to the unique character of our community while creating new opportunities for local residents and visitors alike.
Finally, we joined Bank of Frankewing for an open house celebrating 105 years of continuous service. For more than a century, the bank has supported local families, businesses, and communities across southern Middle Tennessee. Reaching 105 years is a remarkable accomplishment and serves as a reminder that strong local institutions help create strong communities. Congratulations to their entire team on this significant milestone.
Looking Ahead
In closing, allow me to state the obvious: election season is upon us. I want to take a moment to thank everyone who has put their name on the ballot to serve our citizens as an elected official. Whether you’re running for a seat on the Lawrence County Commission, the Tennessee General Assembly, or the U.S. Congress, it takes a great deal of courage to step into the arena.
For our friends and neighbors, I encourage you to vote. Early voting runs from July 17 through August 1, and Election Day is August 6. Regardless of your political views, participating in the electoral process is one of the most important ways we help shape the future of our community. Please stay informed, learn about the issues and candidates on the ballot, and most importantly, make a plan to vote.
As always, thank you for supporting the Chamber, local business, and the many partnerships that help move Lawrence County forward.
About the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce / Visit Lawrenceburg
The Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce champions economic opportunity and community vitality by supporting local businesses, workforce development, and quality-of-life initiatives. Visit Lawrenceburg, the Chamber’s destination marketing effort, promotes Lawrence County’s attractions, events, and experiences to drive tourism, visitor spending, and long-term community growth.
Media Contact
Destiny Gobble, Communications & Hospitality Coordinator
destiny@lawcotn.com