Yesterday’s Farragut Press (April 15, 2026) had a great article announcing that my good friend Ashley Lynch is the new Executive Director of Shop Farragut / Farragut Business Alliance. Seeing her smiling face next to Candace Viox in that photo made me grin from ear to ear.

I’ve known Ashley for years, and if there’s anyone who was born for this job, it’s her.

She’s a lifelong Farragut girl through and through. Farragut High School graduate, parents who also graduated from there — this town is literally in her DNA. She didn’t just move here for the good schools or the safe neighborhoods; she’s one of those rare people who never left because she genuinely loves this community.

What stands out most about Ashley is how much she truly cares about local businesses and the people who run them. For more than five years she’s been working alongside Shop Farragut president Candace Viox on various committees. She’s not someone who just shows up for the meetings — she shows up with ideas, energy, and that quiet determination that gets things done.

That’s pure Ashley. She’s always been the type to build things — relationships, events, momentum. Whether it’s helping organize community mixers, supporting local festivals like Dog Daze or the Harvest Festival, or just quietly checking in on business owners, she’s the person who connects the dots and makes sure no one feels left out.

Candace Viox nailed it when she said they needed an executive director who “knows and loves our Town and appreciates the value of this community organization.” Ashley checks every one of those boxes and then some. She’s excited about visiting every business in town to hear their feedback and ideas. That hands-on, listen-first approach is exactly what Farragut’s business community needs right now.

I’m especially happy for her because this feels like the perfect next step. Replacing Vic Scott (who stepped down to focus on her primary job) is no small thing, but Ashley’s reputation in this town is rock-solid. People already trust her. That’s huge when your job is to rally business owners, plan events, and keep the whole Shop Farragut engine running smoothly.

The business mixer on May 5th at the Farragut Community Center sounds like the perfect kick-off. If you’re a local business owner or just someone who loves supporting Farragut, I highly recommend stopping by from 4:30 to 6 p.m. to meet Ashley and see what she and the team have planned.

Ashley, if you’re reading this — I’m so proud of you. Farragut is getting someone who genuinely loves this town and wants to see every business and every neighbor thrive. You’ve been preparing for this for years without even realizing it.

Here’s to new chapters, strong foundations, and a bright future for Shop Farragut under your leadership. You’ve got this.

Congrats, friend. The town is lucky to have you. ❤️

— Brian

Knoxville, TN (and proud Farragut supporter)