Earlier this year our Chamber and Ambassadors embarked on a journey to visit 100 members in 100 business days, to celebrate our 100th anniversary. We are happy to announce that we have officially completed our goal at the beautiful Cedars of Lebanon State Park. Completing our 100th visit with such an amazing organization makes this achievement even more special. This huge milestone is another testament to the diverse community we serve.

Friends of Cedars of Lebanon State Park is a non profit volunteer organization that was founded in 2014. Their mission is to promote conservation and education in support of the Park and to assist its efforts to preserve and protect the many natural, cultural and scenic features. Thank you to Ranger Sarah Geeslin, Friends of Cedars of Lebanon President Renee Morris and staff for allowing us to stop by!

Cedars of Lebanon State Park is located in Wilson County and is surrounded by the Cedars of Lebanon State Forest. The park is named for eastern red cedar trees found throughout the area. The trees reminded early American settlers of the famed Biblical cedar forests that thrived across Mount Lebanon in what is now the Mediterranean area. Cedars of Lebanon became a state park in 1955.

The 1,139-acre park has 117 campsites equipped with picnic tables and grills, and electric and water hookups. A modern group lodge, open year-round for organized groups, has a total sleeping capacity of 80 people.

We have many more visits to share with you in the coming weeks. Thank you to all of the members, businesses and organizations that have welcomed us on this journey! Here’s to 100 more years of connecting with our community!

The Chamber had the pleasure of visiting another local business that has made a significant impact on our community. Today, we shine a spotlight on EXIT Rocky Top Realty-C & D Team. This team is more than just a real estate agency — they are passionate about selling you not only a home but also the community that comes with it! They are adept at assisting in relocation, ensuring families find the right school for their children and connecting new residents with essential business and healthcare providers. Their dedication to integrating new residents into our community is truly unmatched.

Judy Cox, a lifelong resident of Wilson County, brings invaluable local knowledge and experience to her clients and Chamber members. She is a Lifetime Member of our Chamber, showcasing her long-standing commitment to our community. Judy and Medana Hemontolor have both served on the Chamber’s Board of Directors for several years. Judy, Medana and Diana Cavender are active members of our Chamber Ambassadors Program. Their presence is a staple at member Ribbon Cuttings and networking events, where they consistently show their support for our community. We are so thankful for these three ladies whose active involvement help make our community a better place.

Here’s to celebrating not only our 100th anniversary, but also the members who have helped us reach this milestone!

Our celebration cake continues to make its way through Wilson County! REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, with a state-of-the-art distribution center located right here in Lebanon, Tennessee. As the nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of over 24 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. The new distribution center serves more than 60 stores and 5.6 million REI members in the area.

The facility’s design focuses on enhancing the connection employee’s have to nature with “trails” worn into the concrete floors, wood siding from a decommissioned barn installed in the atrium and furniture, and handrails repurposed from trees removed from the property prior to construction. The co-op is also completing a habitat restoration project across the 41-acre property, which will soon feature a trail for walking and biking!

REI is located at 1400 Murfreesboro Rd, Lebanon, TN 37090 (Hwy 231 headed towards Cedars of Lebanon)

REI staff pictured: Charles Dwyer – Operations Manager, Danielle Riendeau – Senior Administrative Assistant, and Brandon Sather – Inbound Manager

Stephanie Hollis – Chamber Support Admin, Lyn Williams – Ambassador Vice-Chair, and Ambassadors Diana Cavender & Debbie Moss are also pictured