McKenzie Chamber Honors Businesses, Individuals During Banquet

McKENZIE (June 20) — Businesses and individuals were honored during the McKenzie Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s second annual banquet on Tuesday, June 20 at the Waddell Place.

The event was highlighted with featured speaker Kyle Spurgeon, president and CEO of The Jackson Chamber. Spurgeon is a Henry County native, a graduate of Murray State University, and has worked in industrial development for most of his career. He and wife, Melissa were among the 200 in attendance along with State Representative Tandy Darby, and representatives of U.S. Congressman David Kustoff, and representatives of TVA and the Tennessee Economic and Community Development.

Spurgeon spoke about working in partnerships with each other as local businesses and working with the neighboring communities to boost the overall success of the community.

Workforce development is key to attracting new jobs and businesses. McKenzie schools, TCAT, Bethel University and the people of McKenzie have many opportunities to work together to be successful.

“Nuture the soul,” said Spurgeon. “Develop a shared sense of purpose,” encouraged the speaker.

He also encouraged the attendees to embrace technology and innovation. In the early 2000s, Jackson Energy Authority was one of the first utilities to install fiber optics. It was through the vision of JEA’s CEO John Williams. The city has benefited from that technological leap.

He praised McKenzie and its new Chamber of Commerce, now starting its third year of operations. He said he has a team of staff members. McKenzie has a lone employee, Monica Heath, for the McKenzie Industrial Board and its affiliate, McKenzie Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He applauded her work and achievements.

In closing, Spurgeon said “if you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. Nurture the soul of McKenzie.”

The 2022-23 Board of Directors was: Josh Crawford, chairman; Jan Latimer, Vice-Chairman; Jay Phipps, Secretary/Treasurer. Crawford is creative director of Overflow Church, Latimer is Vice-President of TCAT-Henry-Carroll, and Phipps is owner of Phipps Pharmacy; and Board Members - Myra Carlock of Bethel University; Shawna Fowler (replacing Emily Young-who retired) with McKenzie Banking Company; Victor Vela of Maria’s Mexican Restaurant; Ashley Bell of Urban Trading Company; Jason Martin of The McKenzie Banner; Barbara Robertson of Robertson’s Decorating; and Joel Washburn, McKenzie Industrial Board representative.

For the 2023-24 year: Jan Latimer is chairman; Jason Martin is Vice-Chairman. Rolling off the board is Barbara Robertson, Ashley Bell, and Victor Vela. New board members are Will Record of Dynamix, Drew Beeler of Hometown Hangout and Christy Williams of Regions Bank.

The Businessperson of the Year was Ashley Bell, owner of Urban Trading Company in downtown McKenzie. The award was presented by Jason Martin.

Business of the Year was Hometown Hangout, owned by Drew Beeler. The award was presented by Jan Latimer.

The Non-Profit of the Year was Beating Hearts Help Center. The award was presented by Josh Crawford.

The Chamber Champions were P.J. French and Kelly Waldron of Hamilton-Ryker. The award was presented by Monica Heath.

The Chamber hosted the Easter Egg Drop, Teachers Appreciation Week, Bethel University Freshman Welcome, Shop Local campaign, Chamber Banquet, Chamber Coffees, Christmas Tacky Sweater and Tacos, and the Chamber Golf Tournament.

New members are always welcome and the 2023-24 membership campaign just started.