Speaker Pro Tempore 18th District
Sumner, Trousdale & Part of Davidson Counties
What's Happening at the Capitol?
This month has been an eventful one. From gatherings and celebrations across District 18 to meetings in Nashville, I have stayed busy.
It has come time for us to begin preparing for the upcoming legislative session, and I have spent much of my time in meetings with community partners, fellow legislators, and our Tennessee Departments discussing how we can better support Tennessee families in the years to come. With this information, I am beginning toward forming legislation with the goal of bolstering our communities. I look forward to continuing to gather information to make this goal a reality for all Tennesseans.
Speaking to the Hendersonville Chamber
Photo by Rick Murray "Memories by Murray"
At the beginning of August, I had the wonderful opportunity to connect with members of the Hendersonville Chamber of Commerce at their monthly luncheon. I spent time giving an overview of legislation passed during the 112th General Assembly, the FY 22-23 budget and tax cuts, and ideas for legislation that I hope to present in the upcoming session. It was great to make new connections and form deeper ones with local professionals.
Veterans Art Exhibit: Wounded War Dogs & American Metal
On Saturday, August 6th, I had the pleasure of joining Monthaven Arts and Cultural Center for a fundraiser benefitting their Between the Lines Healing Arts Program. During the fundraiser, I got a sneak peek at the 4th Annual Veterans Art Exhibit, which is available to view through September 11th. The breathtaking exhibit features art pieces that center around Wounded War Dogs and American Metal. I was glad to spend time supporting this important program for veterans in our community.
Community Impact Breakfast
I am grateful to have spent the morning of August 11 with the United Way of Sumner County at the Community Impact Breakfast. We spent time celebrating many of the people who are dedicated to keeping Sumner County the beautiful community it is. Our passionate volunteers, community leaders, and service organizations are a significant part of what makes District 18 special, and it was a true privilege to spend time celebrating them.
Meta Chamber Booster
August 16th was a wonderful day in District 18. I had the honor of joining members of the Gallatin and Hendersonville Chambers, Meta, and Representatives Garrett and Lamberth for a MetaBoost event benefitting local businesses. I was grateful to be given a moment to share my experience as an independent pharmacy owner and offer some encouragement to fellow small business owners in the room. Meta's Gallatin Data Center has been a great benefit to the area already, and their team has great plans to continue their work of helping boost our local businesses.
FFA Breakfast
It was a joy to join the Tennessee FFA Foundation for the 7th Annual Tennessee State Fair Ham Breakfast. The record-setting event was packed with students and other attendees from across the state who came to support the FFA, the State Fair, and the Agriculture industry. It was genuinely inspiring to see such an outstanding crowd joined together to champion this fantastic organization. I look forward to continuing my involvement with the FFA on both the state and local levels.
Ribbon Cuttings
I always enjoy seeing District 18 thrive. With the recent growth in our area, organizations have experienced continued success, and we have had the opportunity for many new businesses to join our community.

This month, I was pleased to join the Gallatin Chamber of Commerce for two Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies. The first was extra special, as it was in honor of The Veranda's 10th Anniversary. Next, I was glad to attend the ceremony celebrating the new Gallatin location of Whataburger.
Celebrating Service
This month I had the opportunity to celebrate three notable Sumner County officials who have served our community for many years. I will always be grateful for their friendship, kindness, and dedication to public service, and I wish them all the best in each of their next chapters.
Photo via Gallatin News
Mayor Anthony Holt has served as the Sumner County Executive since 2006, but he has been a public servant for far longer. He is moving on to be the Executive Director for the County Mayors Association, and I am confident he will do great work in his new position.
Photo via Gallatin News
After twenty years on the bench, Judge Jim Hunter has decided to retire. However, his service will continue. Judge Hunter plans to spend part of his time volunteering with the Recovery Court Program in some capacity. It was a joy celebrating him earlier this week.
Photo via TN Donor Services
County Clerk Bill Kemp has served Sumner County for over thirty-five years, and he has always been active in our community, especially as an advocate for organ donation. He announced his retirement earlier this year, and he plans to spend more time with his family.
425 5th Avenue North, Suite 708
Nashville, TN 37243
(615) 741-1999