As part of our ongoing member visits, we had the pleasure of stopping by Island Breeze Bistro, a Caribbean gem located just around the corner from our Chamber Office. Island Breeze is open Wednesday through Saturday, offering a unique blend of Caribbean and Southern flavors with their delicious rotating specials.
Island Breeze specializes in homestyle Meat & Three options, infusing each dish with Caribbean spices and flavors. Each day on the week brings a new special, ensuring there is always something exciting to try!
The bistro is truly a family affair, run by owner Darlene Webb, her mother, and her daughter Gabby. Darlene is an active member of our Ambassador Program. You may have even seen pictures of her on other member visits! Her dedication to both the restaurant, our community and our Chamber is truly commendable. We are so thankful for Island Breeze Bistro’s delicious contribution to Lebanon!
As part of our journey to visit 100 businesses, we visited another proud member: The Lebanon-Wilson County Library! Our Library offers an incredible array of opportunities for children and families, especially during the summer months!
One of the exciting summer opportunities at the Library were generously donated by the Kiwanis Club of Lebanon: STEAM To-Go Kits! These kits cater to a variety of interests and include hands-on learning activities and games. They are perfect for keeping young minds engaged and entertained while learning something new. Kits are now available and can be checked out for 2 weeks at a time.
The Summer Reading Program is also set to launch, with signups starting on May 28. Children from Kindergarten through grade 6 can complete 20 books to earn a free pass to the Wilson County Fair – Tennessee State Fair. For younger children who haven’t yet started kindergarten, there is an equally exciting reward — a free swimming pass to the Jimmy Floyd Family Center.
For movie lovers, the Library’s collection of “Binge Box” movie sets is a must-see. These boxes feature hand-selected movies that follow a series or a theme, making it easy to enjoy a movie marathon. Whether you’re in a mood for mystery films, teen dramas, or a Will Ferrell comedy spree, the Library has you covered!
Our visit to the Lebanon-Wilson County Library was truly inspiring. We are so grateful for the warm welcome and are excited to see these enriching programs in our community. Be sure to check out these fantastic resources and join in on the fun this summer!
Library Staff Pictured: Pamela Van De Leuv, Alesia Burnley, Chelsea Gann, Becca Herrera, and Mechelle Bass
Chamber Ambassadors Pictured: Julie Cook, Natalie Karousatos, Darlene Webb, Pat Robertson, Debbie Moss, and Kay Maynard
Chamber Board of Directors pictured: Lyn Williams, Ambassador Program Vice-Chair; Ian Isbell, Membership Engagement Division Vice-Chair; Greg Butler, Board Treasurer; and Ja’Rob Coggins, Board Chair
We had the pleasure of celebrating with another member, Diana Cavender, from Bryan Insurance. Diana has been an integral part of our Chamber and Ambassadors Program for many years. She consistently demonstrates her dedication to our community!
Bryan Insurance, a trusted local insurance provider, offers a range of services to meet the needs of our community. Diana said, ” Whether it is life, disibility, or Medicare — we are here to help!”
We are grateful for Diana’s active involvement and Bryan Insurance’s continued commitment to serving our members and our community.
Wilson Bank & Trust hosted Business Before Hours and a Ribbon Cutting at the Main Office, located on the Historic Castle Heights Campus, Friday, May 17. The Ribbon Cutting ceremony, for the newly renovated building, was conducted by the Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce.
Guests had the chance to tour the facility, network with staff and community members, and celebrate this exciting milestone. CEO John McDearman III and Senior VP & Regional President Curt Baker, introduced guests to the many contributors responsible for the renovation and the Bank’s continued success. The impressive renovation, led by Jack Bell Builders, included a modern design, Wilson County memorabilia, and a state-of-the-art café.
Over 37 years ago, Wilson Bank & Trust was founded by a group of local business leaders alongside the founding CEO, Randall Clemons. The first location was a small house in Lebanon. Since then, the bank has opened 29 offices, including the Main Office and neighboring Operations Center. In a world of bank mergers and acquisitions driven by the bottom line, Wilson Bank & Trust remains focused on serving the community. As your local, independent bank, Wilson Bank & Trust takes a personal approach to business by providing customized banking needs while staying committed to serving communities across Middle Tennessee.
Pictured with Wilson Bank & Trust CEO John McDearman III are stakeholders, staff and community members. City of Lebanon Mayor Rick Bell, Lebanon Wilson County President & CEO Melanie Minter, VP Membership & Finance Andrea Wilke, Chamber Ambassadors, and representatives.
The Wilson Bank & Trust Main Office is located at 623 W Main St, Lebanon, TN 37087
Ribbon Cuttings are sponsored by Edward Jones Financial Advisor: Lyn Williams
Business Before Hours is a networking event that provides a relaxed way for members of the Chamber to connect with one another. Member organizations may host these events, which bring together an average of 50-100 people, to showcase their facilities.
Business Before Hours included several door prizes provided by Wilson Bank & Trust, and as always, the Chamber Pot drawing. All Chamber members are entered into the Pot to be drawn during the event. You must be present to win. If the first person is not present, we will draw a second time for half the original value. If the second person is not present, the value goes up $25 for the NEXT Business Before or After Hours.
The May 17 Chamber Pot was valued at $375. The first name drawn by Daniel Sampson, Assistant Vice President – Loan Officer, was The White Room. Unfortunately, no representatives were present. Farm Bureau Exposition Center was drawn second, but no one was present to claim. We look forward to seeing everyone at our next Business Before/After Hours, where the Chamber Pot will increase to $400! Remember, you must be present to win!
Yesterday, we took a trip across the square to visit one of our members & proud 100-Year sponsor! Meet our friends at The Refinery Lebanon! We believe that our Chamber’s success is a reflection of the collaborative efforts of our members.
As we reflect on a century, we want to take this opportunity to express our sincere appreciation for your continued partnership & support of our Chamber. Thank you for letting us visit!
Annie White, Co-owner of The Refinery in Lebanon, was recently featured in Lebanon City Lifestyle‘s article Leading Ladies of Lebanon.
She said, “At The Refinery, we specialize in a range of treatments, from neurotoxins and dermal fillers to advanced skincare procedures, all aimed at enhancing our clients’ natural beauty and boosting their confidence.”
Lebanon City Lifestyle: Leading Ladies of Lebanon
When asked what her favorite things about our area are, Annie said:
“The sense of community: Lebanon/Wilson County has a tight-knit community where neighbors know each other by name and are always willing to lend a helping hand. This strong sense of camaraderie creates a welcoming and supportive environment for residents and businesses alike.”
Lebanon City Lifestyle: Leading Ladies of Lebanon
The Refinery has some pretty awesome deals going on!
30% Off Skinpen treatments – valid through tomorrow, 5/17
May Botox Special: Buy 45 Units, Get 15!
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The goal of The Refinery is to offer patients a superior aesthetic and wellness experience to not change, but to REFINE their health and natural beauty. The Refinery’s team of experienced and caring clinicians hold a high standard for providing exceptional patient care. Our culture is to provide individualized education and support toward a tailored, cohesive goal.
Pictured: The Refinery Staff and Chamber Ambassadors – Greg Butler & Tammy Armijo-Johnson
Empowered Health & Chiropractic hosted a Ribbon Cutting and Open House on May 14. The ceremony was conducted by the Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce.
Empowered Health & Chiropractic serves our community with life giving care while empowering individuals to gain their full expression of health. Their doctors and staff are fully dedicated to providing chiropractic solutions that address your unique needs, whether you are experiencing back pain, neck pain, headaches, or even muscle tightness and tension.
Dr. Cripps opened her first office, Carthage Family Chiropractic, in 2014. After 9 years, it was time to expand the practice to Lebanon. She bought Empowered Health & Chiropractic in 2023. Dr. Cripps was the 2020 recipient of the “Rising Chiropractor of the Year” Award, a statewide honor that is elected by her colleagues.
Pictured with Empowered Health & Chiropractic owner Dr. Melanie Cripps, DC; and husband Javin Cripps; is Dr. Christine Isaac, DC; staff, family and friends. Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Melanie Minter, Chamber Ambassadors and representatives are also pictured.
Empowered Health & Chiropractic is located at 1028 W Main Street Suite E, Lebanon, TN 37087
Mike’s Foodland hosted a Ribbon Cutting on May 9. The ceremony was conducted by the Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce.
Mike’s Foodland is a grocery store in Lebanon known for its wide selection of meat and produce. The store also features a bakery and deli that serves fresh food with a new menu daily. Mike’s Foodland is currently running a Grand Opening Sale with incredible savings. Mike’s Foodland’s owner, Mike Williams, is a fourth-generation grocery store owner. This is Mike’s Foodland’s third location in Tennessee.
Pictured with Mike’s Foodland owner Mike Williams are family, friends and staff. City of Lebanon, TN – Government Mayor Rick Bell, Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Melanie Minter, Chamber Ambassadors and representatives are also pictured.
Mike’s Foodland is located at 1006 N Cumberland St, Lebanon, TN 37087
Ribbon Cuttings are sponsored by Edward Jones-Financial Advisor: Lyn Williams
The Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce Sports Council Division held the Best All-Around Student Athlete of the Year Awards Luncheon at Cumberland University’s Baird Chapel on May 10, 2024. One male and one female athlete from each high school in Wilson County were nominated by their Athletic Director, Coach, or Principal. Students are nominated for their outstanding academic and athletic qualities. From the nominees, one male and one female were chosen to receive a scholarship to the school of their choice. The scholarships have been generously funded by the 15th Annual Two Rivers Ford Open Bass Tournament hosted by the Wilson County Sports Council in April. The scholarships serve as a testament to our community’s commitment to nurture and support the next generation of leaders.
The luncheon featured guest speaker Colton Dowell, Wide Receiver for the Tennessee Titans.
Dowell’s inspiring words and personal journey served to motivate and encourage these young athletes as they embark on their own paths to success.
Female Scholarship Recipient: Sophia Beverly Allen – Green Hill High School
Male Scholarship Recipient: Jackson Thomas Allen – Wilson Central High School
The following students were recognized as the 2024 Best All Around Student Athletes:
Friendship Christian School – Olivia Rush & Jon Richerson
Green Hill High School – Sophia Beverly Allen & Brayden Fisk
Lebanon High School – Jaden Ann Harris & Brice Avery Njezic
Mount Juliet High School – Eyana Badio & Will Czerkiak
Mt. Juliet Christian Academy – Molly Rhoades & James Edgerton
Watertown High School – Madison King & Kwame Seay
Wilson Central High School – Anindita Das & Jackson Thomas Allen
On behalf of the Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce, scholarships and awards were presented by Chamber President & CEO Melanie Minter, VP Membership & Finance Andrea Wilke, Board Chair Ja’Rob Coggins, and Sports Council Vice-Chair Phillip Vance.
Lunch Sponsored by First Freedom Bank
Awards Sponsored by Buckeye Drugs
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The Titans selected Colton Dowell in the seventh round of the 2023 NFL Draft. The 6-foot-3-inch, 212-pound possesses a unique blend of size, speed, ball skills and explosiveness that creates opportunity to compete at the NFL level. The Lebanon native played six seasons at UT Martin (2017-22) where he saw action in 47 games with 34 starts, recording 177 receptions for 2,796 yards and 19 touchdowns. Colton attended Wilson Central High School and played for coach Brad Dedman, where he guided the Wildcats to a 8-3 record with a playoff berth in 2016.
Lebanon Small Business Week ended after a week-long celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit in Lebanon. The Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Wilson Bank & Trust and the City of Lebanon’s Economic Development Department to show appreciation to the backbone of our local economy — small businesses.
Wilson Bank & Trust generously provided free $5 vouchers, dubbed Business Bucks, which could be redeemed at participating businesses throughout Lebanon. Lebanon Small Business Week served as a platform to recognize the dedication and passion of small business owners. When you support a small business, you are not just making a purchase — you are investing in the dreams and livelihood of your neighbors. Lebanon Small Business week was a reminder of the impact each individual can have on the success of our local economy.
As Lebanon Small Business Week comes to a close, the value of small businesses will continue to resonate in Lebanon. The Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce extends its gratitude to all who participated and continues its commitment to the growth and success of small businesses.
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Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce had the pleasure of joining City of Lebanon, TN – Government Mayor Rick Bell and Economic Development Director Sarah Haston for a few small business visits.
Women in the Lead was nothing short of empowering, with Stephanie Richardson sharing her wisdom. Her keynote shed light on the importance of aligning our thoughts with our beliefs. Another key takeaway — know your worth. Stephanie passionately discussed how undervaluing ourselves can limit our potential. Instead, she urged us to embrace our imperfections and recognize the unique value we bring to the table. The event sparked discussion among guests, highlighting the shared experiences and challenged faced by women.
Our next Women in the Lead — “Have Your Cake and Eat It, Too” will be June 13. More details to come.
