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Plans Revealed for New Train Museum Complex in Watertown, TN

Written by Lebanon Wilson Chamber Marketing on . Posted in Chamber Blog.

The recently established 501(c)3 nonprofit Watertown Railroad Museum is set to announce plans and renderings for a new Museum Complex. The proposed 14,000 square-foot facility will house a museum, train hosting facilities, an event center, an observation deck, restaurant space and an outdoor park area becoming the anchor of WRM goals.

The facility is set to be developed around the former Railway Express Agency building constructed in 1900. The historic brick portion will house the new, immersive museum showcasing the importance of railroading in Watertown. While Tennessee Central Railway Museum has been running its excursion trains to town for 30 years, the anticipated addition of Nashville Steam Preservation Society’s restored steam engine 576 adds an exciting new twist to the train experience. The museum will enhance the ability to attract visitors to town even on days when excursions are not operating.

This building projects the WRM mission: “To bring tourism to Watertown, TN, using education of railroad history by creating museum exhibits, events and excursion train hosting.” A museum to showcase Watertown’s railroad story, a destination complex to experience history while creating memories, and a tourist attraction to make an economic impact—all of this opens the town’s future to more benefits for local businesses and the city infrastructure while working to maintain the small-town charm of Watertown.

“We are very excited for the development of the Watertown Railroad Museum,” said Joey Bryan, Vice President of the Nashville Steam Preservation Society, “as we plan to recreate a 1940s rail journey from the hustle and bustle of the city out to the country using steam locomotive No. 576, this facility will give future riders a chance to explore the history of the area during the layover in Watertown. The museum paired with the future turntable and railyard will give people a full circle experience.”

An invite-only kickoff event will take place on Saturday September 20th, 2025, in Watertown, TN, at the future complex site. It will be an exciting day in Watertown as the TCRM will arrive with their “Train Robbery” excursion hosted by the reenactment group, Dead Tree Desperados. This will be the 25th anniversary for the Desperados.

Media is invited to attend the kickoff event from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm in the future museum building at 129 Depot St., Watertown, TN 37184. A video presentation will take place at 6:00 pm. A video rendering of the future building is available upon request.

For additional information contact: Chris Ferrari at 615-218-6249 or email: cferrari@watertownrailroadmuseum.org

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Best Face Forward Ribbon Cutting

Written by Lebanon Wilson Chamber Marketing on . Posted in Chamber Blog, Ribbon Cuttings.

Yesterday, we had the pleasure of celebrating Best Face Forward, LLC with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony!

Owned and operated by Kelly Swavely, RN, Best Face Forward is committed to helping clients look and feel their best through safe, ethical, and expertly delivered aesthetic treatments. With 15+ years of nursing experience spanning emergency medicine, wellness therapies, and aesthetics, Kelly provides care rooted in safety, compliance, and only FDA-approved treatments. We’re proud to welcome Best Face Forward to the Chamber family!

Best Face Foward is located at 719 B McFadden Ct, Lebanon, TN 37087

Pictured with Best Face Forward owner Kelly Swavely, RN are friends, family and supporters. Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Melanie Minter, Board of Directors and Ambassadors are also pictured.

Ribbon Cuttings are sponsored by Wes Dugan – Farm Bureau Insurance Castle Heights Office

Racing into Savings – Sam’s Club Plus Members Get Free Music City Grand Prix® Tickets

Written by Lebanon Wilson Chamber Marketing on . Posted in Chamber Blog.

Sam’s Club Lebanon has an exciting offer you won’t want to miss!

When you sign up for a Sam’s Club Plus Membership for just $60, you’ll receive two sets of tickets to the Borchetta Bourbon Music City Grand Prix® at the Nashville Superspeedway on August 30–31, 2025.

That’s 2 tickets for each day — a $200 value — included with your membership. It’s a huge savings on top of all the incredible benefits that come with being a Sam’s Club Plus Member, like cash rewards, early shopping hours, and free shipping on most items.

Don’t wait — this promotion is the perfect chance to experience the thrill of race weekend while unlocking all the perks of membership.

Sam’s Club #7673
600 Willard Hagan Drive
Lebanon, TN 37090

For more details, contact:
Michael Melton
Member Team Manager
mamelto.s07673.us@samsclub.com

Ribbon Cutting Celebration with The Pantry at Poppie’s Boutique

Written by Lebanon Wilson Chamber Marketing on . Posted in Chamber Blog, Ribbon Cuttings.

Yesterday, we joined Poppie’s Boutique to celebrate the grand opening of their newest addition — the charming upstairs loft, now home to The Pantry at Poppie’s.

Owner Sarah Collins shared how her mother and grandmother, both amazing hosts, inspired her to create this space. The Pantry focuses on the home — offering a whimsical collection of gifts, garden treasures, and cottage finds, all thoughtfully curated by Sarah and her team. If you know Sarah, you know her heart is all about the cozy, the cottage, the plants, the food, and all the little touches that bring peace and beauty into a home. This new space is no exception.

Poppie’s Boutique is located at 132 Public Square, Lebanon, TN 37087

Pictured with owner Sarah Collins are staff, friends and supporters. Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Melanie Minter, Chamber Ambassadors and representatives are also pictured.

Ribbon Cuttings are sponsored by Wes Dugan – Farm Bureau Insurance Castle Heights Office

Ribbon Cutting & Open House at Modern Revival

Written by Lebanon Wilson Chamber Marketing on . Posted in Chamber Blog, Ribbon Cuttings.

This Saturday, August 9, Modern Revival celebrated one year in business with a ribbon cutting at their beautiful storefront on the square. The ceremony was conducted by the Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce.

Modern Revival is a thoughtfully curated retail shop offering home décor, house plants, and vintage finds, all nestled right on the Watertown square. Whether you’re looking to refresh your space or discover something unique, this charming store is full of inspiration and character.

Modern Revival is located at 312 Public Square, Watertown, TN 37184

Pictured with Modern Revival co-owners Aimee Harmon and Shannon Patrick are friends, family and customers. Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Melanie Minter, Chamber Ambassadors and representatives are also pictured.

Ribbon cuttings are sponsored by Wes Dugan – Farm Bureau Insurance Castle Heights Office

ADC Contractors Ribbon Cutting

Written by Lebanon Wilson Chamber Marketing on . Posted in Chamber Blog, Ribbon Cuttings.

Today we celebrated a special Ribbon Cutting with ADC Contractors!

Join us in welcoming the new ownership team, Chris & Tara Thomas and Chad Morgan, as they lead ADC into an exciting new chapter. ADC has been a valued member of the Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce since November 1991, and we’re honored to stand alongside them as they continue their legacy of excellence. During our visit, we noticed one of our Chamber membership plaques from the 90s proudly displayed on their wall — an unexpected piece of our Chamber’s history!

ADC is a full-service paving and pavement maintenance contractor, offering a wide range of asphalt and concrete solutions. Their commitment to quality workmanship and community partnerships continues to pave the way for lasting success!

ADC is located at 95 Dixie Ave, Lebanon, TN 37090

Pictured with ADC owners Chris & Tara Thomas and Chad Morgan is Andrea Wilke – Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce VP Membership & Finance, Chamber Board of Directors, Ambassadors and representatives.

Ribbon Cuttings are sponsored by Wes Dugan – Farm Bureau Insurance Castle Heights Office

Two Bronze Dogs West Ribbon Cutting

Written by Lebanon Wilson Chamber Marketing on . Posted in Chamber Blog, Ribbon Cuttings.

Today we celebrated the official ribbon cutting for Two Bronze Dogs West – the brand-new second location of this local business! We’re honored to support Two Bronze Dogs as they continue to grow here in Wilson County.

Two Bronze Dogs is a one-of-a-kind shopping destination for pets and the people who love them. Dedicated to natural pet food, high-quality supplies, and unique gifts, they offer something special for every furry friend — and their humans too!

Their new West location is a spacious expansion of their downtown shop, offering even more to explore, including:

  • The innovative Bevi drink system – enjoy flavor-infused sparkling or still water, hot or chilled, with refillable bottles and a subscription aluminum bottle option for unlimited refills.
  • A wider variety of premium pet food and treats
  • Thoughtfully curated gift items you won’t find anywhere else
  • And so much more to discover!

Two Bronze Dogs West is located at 511 W. Baddour Pkwy, Lebanon, TN 37087

Pictured with owners Two Bronze Dogs owners Greg and Derry Malson are family, friends and customers. Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Melanie Minter, Board of Directors, Ambassadors and representatives are also pictured.

Ribbon Cuttings are sponsored by Wes Dugan – Farm Bureau Insurance Castle Heights Office

Casa Azul Ribbon Cutting

Written by Lebanon Wilson Chamber Marketing on . Posted in Chamber Blog, Ribbon Cuttings.

Yesterday, we had the pleasure of celebrating the official ribbon cutting for Casa Azul Mexican Grill — a delicious new addition to our community!

After the ceremony, guests enjoyed a taste of their authentic, flavor-packed Mexican dishes and explored their can’t-miss bar menu. Casa Azul is proudly family-owned, with recipes straight from the heart — many of the meals are named after loved ones, making every dish feel like home.

They’ll be keeping the celebration going all weekend long with family-friendly specials and festivities at the restaurant. (See specials at the end of photos.) Be sure to stop by, show your support, and welcome Casa Azul to the neighborhood!

Casa Azul Mexican Grill is located at 401 Highway 109 N., Lebanon, TN 37090

Pictured with Casa Azul owner Esiason Gutierrez are family, friends and staff. Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Melanie Minter, Chamber Board of Directors, Ambassadors and representatives are also pictured.

Ribbon Cuttings are sponsored by Wes Dugan – Farm Bureau Insurance Castle Heights Office

Averitt Landing Ribbon Cutting

Written by Lebanon Wilson Chamber Marketing on . Posted in Chamber Blog, Ribbon Cuttings.

Yesterday, we celebrated the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Averitt Landing development by Century Communities – Tennessee!

Since 2002, Century Communities has been bringing dreams to life—building homes that combine quality craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and modern smart home features. Their commitment to creating welcoming neighborhoods and spaces where people truly feel at home is evident in every detail of Averitt Landing.

We’re excited to welcome Century Communities to our growing community and look forward to the impact Averitt Landing will have in Wilson County.

Averitt Landing model home is located at 800 Averitt Lane, Lebanon, TN 37087

The Century Communities team includes: Todd Reynolds, TJ Masarweh, John Young, Shelby Watson, Phil Delwiche, Jared Brinkman, Angelo Brandonisio, Morgan Lawler, Silvio Garino, Cara Grzelak, Austin Ervin, Bryce Bell, Nichole Shafron, Val Fernandes, Alex Pulliam, Chris Carrera and Kim Pender.

Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Melanie Minter, Board Chair Ian Isbell, Chamber Ambassadors and representatives are also pictured.

Ribbon Cuttings are sponsored by Wes Dugan – Farm Bureau Insurance Castle Heights Office

Sattler Foundation Inspires Future Aviators Through Free Aerospace Camp

Written by Lebanon Wilson Chamber Marketing on . Posted in Chamber Blog, Member Promotions.

As part of the Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce’s A Day in the Life of a Chamber Member campaign, Chamber staff recently visited the Sattler Foundation to see firsthand how the organization is shaping the next generation of aviators. The visit highlighted the importance of showcasing the diverse activities and organizations that make up the Chamber’s membership.

The Sattler Foundation is giving Middle Tennessee students an extraordinary opportunity to explore the world of aviation and aerospace through its hands-on, STEM-focused Aerospace Camp. Founded in 2015 in memory of aviation enthusiast Bill Sattler, the program has grown to reach hundreds of students, providing free access to experiences typically valued at hundreds of dollars.

April Dugger, daughter of the late Bill Sattler, shared, “Our mission is to reach junior high and high school students who may have an interest in aviation. We expose them to why airplanes fly, let them build and design rockets and model aircraft, and give them hands-on time with simulators. They also get to meet pilots and industry professionals who share their experiences.”

Camp activities include designing and flying balsa wood airplanes, using flight simulators, touring airports, and exploring different types of aircraft — from hot air balloons to commercial jets. Students compete to build the most efficient flying models, learning principles of aerodynamics and engineering in a fun, interactive environment.

What sets the Bill Sattler Foundation for Aerospace Education apart is its accessibility. Dugger explained, “This is a STEM program, but it’s free. Similar programs with airplane rides and hands-on experiences can cost $700 to $1,200. We want students from all financial backgrounds to have the opportunity to pursue their dreams.”

Since its inception, the program has served approximately 245 students and continues to grow. Dugger emphasized the importance of community support, saying, “Local businesses contribute meals, supplies, and mentorship. Donations help fund scholarships for students who want to continue in aviation or aerospace. We’re also looking for professionals with aviation experience to share their stories with our campers.”

The camp offers junior and senior sessions, with partnerships including Middle Tennessee State University and Tennessee Technical College. These partnerships allow senior students to explore aviation-related curriculums and career paths, from airport management to maintenance programs.

Looking ahead, the Sattler Foundation aims to expand its scholarship program, attract more students to aviation careers, and share the model with other communities. Dugger noted, “We hope to package this idea and offer it to other airports, encouraging students to explore careers as pilots, air traffic controllers, and aviation maintenance professionals.”

For more information or to support the Bill Sattler Foundation for Aerospace Education, visit https://thesattlerfoundation.org/

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