On August 25, Representative Clay Doggett presented a state resolution to Ben and Lauren Neale, recognizing them for being named the Small Business Administration’s Rural Small Business of the Year. The ceremony took place at the Neales’ farm near Lynnville.
The Neales operate Light Hill Meats Custom Processing, which includes a retail store in Spring Hill. They are also members of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) through another business, Total Cattle Solutions, based on their farm in Giles County.
In its statement about Light Hill Meats, the Small Business Administration noted: “Benjamin Neale has grown the family enterprise into an integrated farm-to-table beef business with a deep commitment to the community. Today the operation includes a cow-calf herd, a USDA-inspected processing facility (cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats) and a retail butcher shop serving families across Middle Tennessee. Neale is a leader in the industry who cares deeply about positively impacting the lives of his employees as well as giving back to the community.”
NFIB State Director Jim Brown expressed appreciation for Rep. Doggett’s support for small businesses: “I want to thank Representative Doggett, who is a great friend of small business, for working fast at the end of session to get this resolution done.
“The Neales truly run a family business, as their daughters often help out at the store with customer service. They are very deserving of these recognitions for all they do for their community, including raising awareness for autism, sober living and other causes,” Brown said.
Ben Neale commented on his experience as an NFIB member: “Lauren and I enjoy being NFIB members and appreciate the organization for all it does to make Tennessee a great state to own and run our businesses,” he said. “We’re looking forward to more growth, innovation and hiring and having a greater impact on the communities we serve.”
