Lewis County Herald - Serving Hohenwald, Lewis County Tennessee Since 1898

"Small, local businesses are the heart of a community," said the 2021 Chamber Banquet guest speaker, Congressman Mark Green. The banquet was held on August 31, 2021 at Lomax Church of Christ, where several of its members volunteered to cook food and serve the event's attendees.

The crowd was smaller than usual due to many having to quarantine, but the mood in the building was happy and light as the guests awaited the awards ceremony.

The first award was presented to the Natchez Trace Wilderness Preserve by Austin Carroll for Business of the Year for their outstanding strides and outreach within their industry.

The Heritage Award was presented to Tonya Woodward by her good friend Denise Lee for her outstanding service to Lewis County citizens through the organization Hope Hohenwald which has served our area in numerous ways. One of the biggest ways Hope Hohenwald has come to the aid of our community was by a food outreach program, proving those in need with meals for their families. Her award was met by a standing ovation as her name was called out.

Hank's Family Diner was awarded Outstanding New Business by County Mayor Jonah Keltner for always having friendly service to their patrons and for providing meals to those in need through Meals on Wheels.

The Lifetime Service Award was presented to Terry Bunch by Stan Smith for his tireless and dedicated service and support to Hohenwald/Lewis County over the years.

Crystal Nash was met with a huge round of applause as she accepted the Heart of the Community Award, presented by Todd Montgomery, for her outstanding charitable contributions to the citizens of Lewis County through the Lewis County Public Library and Archives.

Denise Lee presented Tonya Woodward the Heritage Award

Kevin Baker Sr. was recognized for his Community Service, presented by Sandra Thompson, for his outstanding involvement and support of the citizens of Lewis County. Baker has played a huge part in the food outreach with Hope Hohenwald, volunteering his time to drive all over and acquire the food.

This and That Gift Shop, owned and operated by Lori Lallo and her family, was presented the Break Out award for outstanding innovation in their service industry. The award was presented by Mike Ricketts who doted on Lallo and her business for truly representing the heart of Lewis County by offering space for many local vendors to sell their products.

Best Supporting Volunteer was awarded to Sandra Thompson, presented by Debbie Landers, for her all of her hard work and involvement in the community.

Lorenda Rochelle was also recognized for her achievement in completing the Leadership Lewis Class where she learned how to better serve our community.