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JIM AYERS SHOUTOUT SHOUTOUT SHOUTOUT

Living a Life of Purpose and Generosity

“To whom much is given, much is expected.”

From the Executive Director

A New Chapter, Built on a Strong Foundation

As I write my first letter as Executive Director of the Southwest Tennessee Tourism Association, I do so with both gratitude and excitement.

First and foremost, I want to recognize Mary Beth Hopper for her years of dedicated service to our association. Her passion for tourism, commitment to our members, and steadfast leadership have created a strong foundation on which we continue to build. On behalf of us all, thank you, Mary Beth, for the countless hours you've invested in making our association stronger. I am especially grateful that this isn't goodbye. Mary Beth will continue serving the association as our Chief Financial Officer, ensuring the knowledge, stability, and financial stewardship that have been hallmarks of her leadership remain a big part of our future. It is an incredible honor to step into this role. Having spent 20 years of my career promoting West Tennessee and working alongside many of you, I know firsthand the remarkable destinations, attractions, and people that make our eight-county region so special. I also know our greatest strength has always been our willingness to work together As we begin this new chapter, my focus is simple: build on our successes while creating exciting new opportunities for our members and communities. Programs like our inaugural IMPACT Awards have already demonstrated the power of celebrating excellence across our region, while campaigns such as Appetite for Adventure are introducing new audiences to the authentic experiences that make Southwest Tennessee worth discovering. These initiatives are only the beginning.

In the months ahead, you'll see continued investment in innovative marketing, expanded member benefits, stronger partnerships, and creative programs that tell the stories of our communities in new and engaging ways. Together, we'll continue growing existing campaigns while developing fresh ideas that inspire visitors to explore our region and support our local businesses.

Our tagline says it best: Small Towns. Big Stories. Every community has a story worth sharing, and every member plays an important part in telling it. I look forward to working with each of you as we write the next chapter of Southwest Tennessee tourism—together. Thank you for your continued support, your partnership, and your belief in what we can accomplish together.

Warmly,

Marty Marbry

Executive Director

Southwest Tennessee Tourism Association

Honors Regional Leaders at Inaugural IMPACT Awards

The inaugural Southwest Tennessee Tourism Association IMPACT Awards were held Wednesday, July 8, at Pickwick Landing State Park in conjunction with the organization's Annual Meeting, marking the beginning of its 2026–2027 fiscal year. Created to recognize the outstanding individuals, businesses, organizations, and communities making a difference across Southwest Tennessee, the IMPACT Awards celebrate excellence in tourism, retail, agritourism, and hospitality. The awards honor the visionaries, leaders, and community partners whose creativity, dedication, and commitment strengthen visitor experiences while driving economic growth throughout the region. A total of 15 awards were presented during the inaugural ceremony.

Southwest Tennessee Tourism Association Executiv

Director Mary Beth Hopper welcomed attendees t the event before introducing Hardin County Ma Kevin Davis. Davis thanked the association for selecting Hardin County as the host community and welcomed guests from across the eight county region.

State Senator Page Walley also addressed those in attendance, speaking about tourism growing role as an economic driver in South Tennessee. Walley expressed his continued support for initiatives that expand tourism opportunities while benefiting both residents and visitors before offering the blessing over the meal prepared and served by the staff of Pickwick Landing State Park. Following lunch, Hopper conducted the association's annual business meeting. During the meeting, members unanimously approv the appointment of Mary Beth Hopper as Chief Financial Officer and Marty Marbry as Executiv Director of the Southwest Tennessee Tourism Association. Members also unanimously appr the organization's remaining business items and financial reports.

Marbry then presented a year-in-review presen highlighting the association's accomplishments over the past year, including expanded marketing efforts, regional branding initiatives, promotional campaigns, and collaborative partnerships designed to increase visitation throughout Southwest Tennessee. The annual meeting concluded with a keynote address from Tami Reist, President and CEO of the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association. Widely recognized as one of the Southeast's leading voices in destination marketing and tourism, Reist is also a presenter at Southeast Tourism Society’s Marketing College held annually at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia During her presentation, Reist emphasized that collaboration among communities, elected officials, tourism professionals, and local stakeholders is essential for rural destinations to thrive. She shared examples of successful regional partnerships in North Alabama, where tourism currently generates more than $4.7 billion in annual travel expenditures. Continue reading......

The afternoon concluded with the presentation of the inaugural IMPACT Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations whose contributions have strengthened Southwest Tennessee's tourism industry and enhanced the region's reputation as a destination for visitors. Award recipients included:

• IMPACT Leader of the Year — Billy Tripp, The Mindfield

• IMPACT Organization of the Year — Henderson-Chester County Chamber & Tourism (Blake Hopper)

• IMPACT Legacy in Tourism Award — Steve McDaniel

• Attraction of the Year — Tennessee River Museum

• Event/Festival of the Year — Jackson's AMP at the Market Summer Concert Series

• Venue of the Year — Old Country Store

• River, Outdoor & Nature Experience of the Year — Outpost Outdoors

• Tourism Professional of the Year — Beth Pippin Explore Pickwick/Hardin County

• Lodging IMPACT Maker — Beverly Milligan White - Pickwick Lake Cabin Rentals

• Dining IMPACT Maker — Emily Underwood - Old Country Store

• Retail IMPACT Maker — Brooke Kiddy - Without Borders Nutrition

• Attraction IMPACT Maker — Ashley Berry - Shiloh National Military Park

• Frontline IMPACT Maker — Rachel Boothe - Pickwick Landing State Park

• Emerging Tourism IMPACT Maker — Camila Tato - Explore Pickwick/Hardin County

• Lasting IMPACT Award — The Shaw Family

The complete IMPACT Awards ceremony is available on the Southwest Tennessee Tourism Association's Facebook page and the Discover Southwest Tennessee YouTube channel. The Southwest Tennessee Tourism Association serves the eight-county region of Chester, Decatur, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Henderson, Madison, and McNairy counties, promoting the area's unique attractions, communities, events, and businesses through regional collaboration and destination marketing.

To watch the IMPACT Awards ceremony, click here.

To learn more about the Southwest Tennessee Tourism Association, membership opportunities, and upcoming regional events, visit www.visitswtenn.com.

Small Towns. Big Stories. Stronger Together.

The Southwest Tennessee Tourism Association is growing and we'd love for you to help us welcome even more communities, businesses, attractions, and tourism partners to our family! We're excited to launch our Small Towns. Big Stories. Stronger Together. Membership Campaign, and with it, the Stronger Together Sweepstakes!

Our association is built on partnerships. Every new member brings fresh ideas, new connections, and another voice helping tell the incredible stories that make Southwest Tennessee such a special place to visit. The stronger our membership, the stronger our region becomes. The Challenge is Simple Invite just one new member to join the Association. Whether it's a local business, attraction, restaurant, museum, festival, chamber, downtown organization, or community leader, your invitation can help grow our network and strengthen tourism across our eight counties.

Here's How It Works

When a new member joins, they'll simply list your name as the referring member on their membership application. Each successful referral earns you one entry into the Stronger Together Sweepstakes. The more new members you recruit, the more chances you'll have to win!

What's the Prize?

This is what everyone wants to know. One lucky member will win a Southwest Tennessee Getaway Package filled with unique experiences, local favorites, and special surprises from across our region. We'll also recognize our Sweepstakes winner in Shout Out and celebrate everyone who helped grow our Association. Our goal is to welcome 50 new members to the Association by December 1, 2026. This campaign isn't just about increasing membership—it's about strengthening the voice of tourism across Southwest Tennessee. Together, we're creating new opportunities, building lasting partnerships, and ensuring that our small towns and big stories continue to inspire visitors for years to come

So, who will you invite?

One conversation could lead to one new member so start the conversation today, extend the invitation— and together, we'll make our Association stronger than ever. Small Towns. Big Stories. Stronger Together.

LivingaLifeofPurposeand

Generosity

Southwest Tennessee has produced countless men and women whose lives have left a lasting mark on their communities. A select few have extended that influence far beyond county and state lines, creating a legacy that continues to impact generations. James W. “Jim” Ayers was one of those individuals.

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“To whom much is given, much is expected.” — Luke 12:48

Born on November 19, 1943, in Parsons, Tennessee, Jim Ayers was raised on the principles of honesty, hard work, generosity, and the transformative power of education. Those values were instilled in him by his parents, Paul and Wilma Ayers

His father worked as a lumberman and farmer, continuing a family tradition that stretched back generations through the operation of a local sawmill. His mother managed a flower shop and oversaw the family's rental properties while raising Jim and his two siblings Together, they taught their children the importance of perseverance, responsibility, and giving back.

An entrepreneur at heart from an early age, Jim began shining shoes for 10 cents a pair when he was just eight years old. By age 10, he was spending weekends driving a tractor and working long hours on the family farm. Those early experiences laid the foundation for a remarkable career built on determination and vision.

After working alongside his father at the farm and sawmill, Jim joined the summer sales force of the Southwestern Company at age 16. Sent to McComb, Mississippi, he lived in a boarding house and spent his days knocking on doors selling books, primarily Bibles, for $10 a week. The experience sharpened his sales skills and strengthened the work ethic that would define his future success.

As an adult, Jim began his professional career as an accountant in the nursing home industry Over time, he built and operated 40 American Health Centers nursing homes before selling the company. He then turned his attention to banking, purchasing a small bank in Scotts Hill, Tennessee. That investment eventually led to the acquisition of the First National Bank of Lexington, which he renamed FirstBank.

Under Jim's leadership, FirstBank experienced extraordinary growth. Through strategic acquisitions, sound management, and a commitment to personalized customer service, the bank expanded from just $14 million in assets in 1984 to more than $13 billion in assets today. In September 2016, FirstBank became publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange, marking another milestone in Jim's remarkable business career.

Yet, despite his professional accomplishments, Jim believed his greatest responsibility was helping others achieve opportunities similar to those he had been given. Guided by the words of Luke 12:48, “To whom much is given, much is expected,” he dedicated himself to investing in future generations

Together with his wife, Janet, he established the Ayers Foundation, a philanthropic organization devoted to improving the lives of rural Tennesseans through education, conservation, and social welfare.

What began with one high school in Parsons grew into the nationally recognized Ayers Scholars Program, which today serves students in 33 high schools across 21 of Tennessee's most economically distressed and at-risk rural counties. Through college access and success counselors, thousands of students have been empowered to pursue higher education and build brighter futures

Jim's generosity extended well beyond education. His philanthropic investments helped establish the Ayers Institute at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, the Jim Ayers Medical Tower at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, the Ayers Children's Hospital in Jackson, Tennessee, and the Ayers Institute for Teacher Learning and Innovation at Lipscomb University.

In a letter describing the inspiration behind the Ayers Foundation, Jim reflected on a high school friend who possessed great intelligence and a passion for learning but lacked the financial means to pursue higher education. That contrast deeply impacted him throughout his life.

His commitment to service earned widespread recognition. In 2019, Jim received one of the nation's highest honors when he was inducted into the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans. Among his many other accolades were the Silver Beaver Award from the Boy Scouts of America, the Joe Kraft Humanitarian Award from The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, and the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Memphis.

In 2023, he was named Nashvillian of the Year by Easterseals Tennessee, and in 2024, he was inducted into the Entrepreneur Center Hall of Fame in Nashville. He also received honorary doctorates from several institutions, including Freed-Hardeman University, Union University, Bethel University, Belmont University, and the University of Memphis, where he became the first alumnus to receive that distinction.

Jim Ayers passed away on April 1, 2025, at the age of 81. While his life was marked by extraordinary business success, his greatest legacy is found in the countless lives he impacted through education, healthcare, and philanthropy.

His story is a powerful reminder that true success is not measured solely by what we achieve, but by what we give back. Across Southwest Tennessee and beyond, generations of students, families, and communities continue to benefit from his vision, generosity, and unwavering belief in the potential of others.

James W. "Jim" Ayers leaves behind more than a legacy of success, he leaves a legacy of opportunity.

The Southwest Tourism Association spotlights Decatur County. From lively community festivals and hometown celebrations to unique traditions that bring people together, Decatur County offers memorable experiences throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly fairs, patriotic celebrations, theater performances, agricultural showcases, fishing tournaments, holiday parades, Christmas festivities, Civil War history, and one-of-a-kind events like the famous World's Largest Raccoon Hunt. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or looking to experience authentic small-town Tennessee hospitality, Decatur County provides a full calendar of events that celebrate the area's heritage, community spirit, and love of the outdoors.

Thank you Decatur County for being a vital part of Southwest Tennessee.

Stars & Stripes Stampede Rodeo Set for August 21–22 at McNairy CountyAg Event Center

Patriotism, western tradition, and high-energy rodeo action will come together thisAugust as the MTN Valley Farms presents the Stars & Stripes Stampede, a two-day event celebrating America's heroes while showcasing some of the region's top rodeo competition.

The Stars & Stripes Stampede will take place Friday and Saturday,August 21–22, 2026, at the McNairy CountyAg Event Center, located at 851 High School Road in Selmer.

Vendors will open at 12:00 p.m., gates will open at 4:30 p.m., and rodeo events begin each evening at 6:00 p.m.

This year's event promises something for the entire family, featuring a full slate of professional rodeo events including:

Barrel Racing

Tie-Down Roping

Breakaway Roping

Chute Dogging

Mounted Shooting

Steer Wrestling

Saddle Bronc Riding

Bareback Riding

Bull Riding

Team Roping

In addition to the rodeo competition, attendees can enjoy a Military Tribute Ceremony honoring the sacrifices and service of active-duty military personnel and veterans. The event will also feature a concert each night after the rodeo, food vendors, and family-friendly activities throughout the weekend.

Organizers describe the Stars & Stripes Stampede as "a western military showdown like no other," combining thrilling rodeo competition with a heartfelt salute to those who have served our nation.

Admission is $25 for adults, while children under 10 are admitted free.Amilitary discount will also be available.

MTN Valley Farms in partnership with Lonestar Rodeo Company and the ProfessionalArmed Forces RodeoAssociation presents an event that aims to deliver two unforgettable evenings filled with dust, adrenaline, western tradition, and patriotic pride.

For additional information, contact Mountain Valley Farms at (931) 273-7095 or follow @mtnvalleyfarms on Facebook and Instagram for event updates.

The Stars & Stripes Stampede invites families, rodeo fans, and supporters ofAmerica's military to experience an action-packed weekend celebrating boots, grit, and glory.

Visit Jackson has a pleothra of events coming up. Check out their event page to keep up with it all!

ReimagineHealth RediscoverYou

Forty Cannons Winery, in Chester County, will be OPEN this growing season on the first Sunday of each month from Noon – 4pm, every month through October! Come on out, enjoy the beautiful vistas, unique smallbatch wines, and good company.

Visit these great Chamber & Tourism organizations