Paris, Tenn.–In front of a crowd of some 2,000, the Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce announced the winners of its 2023 annual awards. The awards were presented at Thursday night’s downtown Tennessee River Jam free concert, by Chamber President Justin Oliver, Henry County Mayor John Penn Ridgeway and Interim Chamber Director Rachel Steedly.
Winning Person of the Year was Jeremy Lindsey of Lakeway IGA, who is known for promoting the community and helping with fundraisers for local students and non-profit agencies.
Allegro Fine Foods, Inc., was named Business of the Year, with President Thomas Harrison accepting on behalf of the long-time Paris company. Allegro said, “Our team works hard every day to make that marinade magic happen! This award represents their dedication to their jobs.”
Winning Small Business of the Year was Uncle Billy’s, a popular downtown Paris eatery. Owner Billy Anderson said, “What an honor…God has blessed us and we give Him all the glory!!!”
Future Visions Farms of Whitlock was named Conservationist of the Year. Future Visions is owned and operated by Steve Smith, Tyler and Jessi Smith, and in addition to running a working farm, they provide produce for local Farmers Markets, the NWTN Local Food Network, Weakley County Schools and provide a wide range of activities and events at their location in Whitlock. The Smiths said, “There’s nowhere else like PARIS, TENNESSEE and we are so lucky to have the local support from our chamber and our community! We love y’all”
REAL Hope Youth Center won the Community Engagement Award, with Director Carl Anderson accepting the award. REAL Hope offers afterschool activities for young children and is located at First Baptist Church in downtown Paris.
Young Professional of the Year Award was presented to Michael Culley of Culley Mechanical Services.
Winning the You Made It Happen Award was Henry County Sheriff’s Deputy Sgt. and SRO Michelle Brewer, who was the brainchild of The Shed. The Shed is a collection point where people donate a wide range of items, from clothing to hygiene items to school supplies and more. They are given out to families in need, no questions asked and with no red tape. The Shed is located in the back parking lot at the Sheriff’s Office and keeps expanding with volunteer help.
Photo: From left, Sgt. Michelle Brewer, Carl Anderson, Billy Anderson, Future Visions Farm with Tyler and Jessi Smith and their daughters Lila Grace and Adabelle, Michael Culley, Thomas Harrison, John Penn Ridgeway, Jeremy Lindsey and Justin Oliver. Photo by Mary Kate Paschall.