Lawrence leads annual turkey shindig

Brad Arnold (Three Doors Down,) GAC's Suzanne Alexander, Bo Bice, Burns & Poe, Chelsea Field, Matt Gary, LoCash Cowboys, Lathan Moore, Lorrie Morgan, Danielle Peck, Matt Kennon, The Roys, radio personalities Big D & Bubba and the Titans Cheerleaders all helped out.

"I continue to be amazed at how this event has not only grown in size, but grown to become personal to me and the individuals involved," Lawrence said. "I've actually become acquainted with some of the folks who have graduated from the program at the Mission; it's overwhelming to experience their growth. I am moved by how much this little gesture once a year means to them. I wish to extend my genuine 'thanks' to all of my friends, the sponsors, media and our community for your help - from the bottom of my heart."

Donations of turkeys, clothing and cash were collected throughout the day with just under 800 birds collected and 411 turkeys cooked as of late Tuesday afternoon.

Lawrence and his family will also hand-deliver 125 cooked turkeys to a tent city of homeless located not far from his home in Wilson County.

The mission's overall goal is to collect 1,000 gobblers before the Thanksgiving week comes to a close.