The Weakley County Chamber of Commerce celebrated a year of momentum, milestones, and meaningful connections at its 2025 Annual Membership Banquet on April 22. The event, held in the Russell Duncan Ballroom of the Boling University Center at UT Martin, brought together business leaders, community partners, and local officials to recognize outstanding member contributions and celebrate the graduation of the 2025 Leadership Weakley County and First Community Bank Youth Leadership program classes.
This year’s banquet theme, “The Boarding Pass to Possibility,” highlighted the forward trajectory and the collaborative spirit that continues to drive opportunity and growth across Weakley County. A sweet sample pack of soaps was generously provided by Buff City Soap – Martin, TN for each attendee, Biggs’ Greenhouses, Inc. loaned flowers for the event, and the table flower arrangements were prepared by Gleason Flower Market and Gifts.
Randy E. Huffstetler, CEO of Greenfield Banking Company Company, was awarded Weakley Countian of the Year for decades of service, mentorship, and leadership across all five communities of the county.
Among the evening’s other highlights, emceed by 2024-25 Chamber President Callie Croom Smithson, was the presentation of the Chamber’s annual membership awards.
Trevathan Brothers Machine & Fabrication in Dresden, owned by Richard and Frank Trevathan, received Small Business of the Year for its long-standing tradition of service, craftsmanship, and community support.
Parker Hannifin Sporlan Division of Greenfield was named the Large Business of the Year, recognized for industry excellence, workforce development, and substantial economic investment in the county. Manish Patel, Design Engineering Supervisor, received the award on behalf of the Parker Hannifin team.
Anna Grace Abernathy, a standout student leader from Greenfield, was honored with the Youth Achievement Award for her servant leadership and personal resilience.
Caroline Ideus was selected as the Emerging Leader of the Year. Presented by 2025-26 incoming Chamber President and representative of the Weakley County Young Professionals, the award recognizes a young professional who is already making a powerful local impact and showcasing what leadership looks like in action. Mrs. Ideus works with the NWTN Local Food Network and the Martin Area Farmers Market.
Photo: Randy Huffstetler accepts the award. Weakley Co. Chamber photo.