Commodores
The goal of the Commodore program is to encourage meaningful participation in the Chamber’s programs and services for all members in an effort to build member commitment and increase member retention. Commodores help make new members feel welcome and introduce them to Chamber programs. The Chamber's Commodore program is presented by Redstone Federal Credit Union.
Who are the Commodores:
The duty of the Commodores is to serve as the public relations arm of the Chamber. This group of professionals is a valuable asset to the Chamber that volunteer their time and expertise to welcome and mentor new members, build membership and raise community awareness of Chamber activities and benefits. Commodores are Chamber members in good standing who are enthusiastic, professional and outgoing and possess leadership qualities and skills. Every Commodore makes a commitment of one year of service.
What the Commodores do:
- Support and actively participate in the goals and action plans set forth by the Board of Directors
- Welcome and involve new members by encouraging participation in Chamber-sponsored events
- Attend ribbon cuttings, ground breakings, relocations and grand openings with assigned Commodore Team
- Volunteer for Chamber-sponsored events
- Serve as mentors to new Chamber members by visiting assigned business or calling member quarterly for a 12 month period
- Deliver packets to new members and visit existing members or prospects, inviting them to Chamber functions.
- Meet for lunch on the second Friday of each month. During lunch, a guest speaker covers topics such as city planning, the school system, industry, tourism, higher education, leadership and recreational facilities just to name a few.
Benefits of being a Commodore:
Commodores, recognized as a valuable asset to the Chamber, are very visible during Chamber events, allowing for great networking opportunities. Commodores can make presentations and display business cards, promotional materials or brochures during Commodore luncheons, as approved by the Admiral. Additionally, Commodores are encouraged to build lasting business relationships with other Chamber members and prospective members.
2022 - 2023 Commodore Class:
(Click on each person's picture to send them an email.)
Stephen Apt
My name is Stephen Apt and I own Apt Contracting, LLC. I am a graduate of West Morgan High School, Calhoun Community College and the University of Alabama Huntsville (Business - Operations Management). My family includes my mother, Jill, my father, Steve, and my brother, Trevor. I have another brother, Lytton, who passed away in 2001.
As an owner of two businesses, I have found it is a priority to give back. I am very active in charities and philanthropy. Some of my favorite charities include Special Books by Special Kids (SKBK), Traders for A Cause, St. Jude's and the USO Wounded Warrior Project. Any charity that benefits kids and our veterans holds a special place in my heart.
In my off time from Apt Contracting, you will find me behind my computer during market hours trading stocks/options. I enjoy watching combat and collegiate sports as well with my friends and family.
I am a Commodore because of the opportunities to give back to the community, especially to the younger generation. The decision to become a Commodore was an easy one to make. Over the last year, I was introduced to a lot of our current Commodores and was able to see the difference they are making each and every day in our community.
My favorite part of being a Commodore is knowing that every single one of our Commodores have the same heart and the same passion to give back.
Jessica Bridges
My name is Jessica Bridges and I am a quality manager for Bunge. I just celebrated one year of marriage to my amazing husband, John. We have four fur babies, two dog and two cats, that keep our life fun and full of love. I graduated from Judson College with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology.
I am a Commodore so that I can give back to the community and support business that join. So far, I really enjoy meeting and networking with the other Commodores.
Belinda Bullard
Not Available
Cassidy Chandler
My name is Cassidy Chandler, and I'm an insurance agent at State Farm. I have four dogs, Charlie, Max, Chance and Harlie as well as a huge supportive family that I enjoy spending time with!
I graduated from Mortimer Jordan High School and then went on to graduate from Wallace State Suma Cum Laude with an associate degree in Applied Science. I am licensed in Property, Casualty, Life and Health insurance and I am also mortgage licensed.
I am proud to be a founding member of the Professional Women's Alliance of North Alabama here in Decatur. I am an avid reader, and I love spending my free time outside at Smith Lake or poolside with my family and friends.
I have been a Commodore for two years and I got involved so that I could be more active in the Chamber and help new businesses have a smooth transition into our community. This was done for me when I opened up my new State Farm Agency in 2019 and it was a huge help! My favorite part of being a Commodore is being able to meet different people and build valuable relationships.
Claudia Compton
My name is Claudia Compton and have been living in Morgan County for 30 years. I live in Hartselle and have three children and a dog. My two youngest children attend Hartselle High School. My oldest son is a patrol officer with the Decatur Police Department. I have been in banking for 22 years and came to work for Progress Bank in 2008.
I am a past board chair and current board member for United Way of Morgan County. I’ve served on various non-profit boards including Hospice of the Valley and Red Cross of Morgan-Lawrence County. In my spare time I love to travel, walk, hike, go to concerts, watch my kids play in various sports and spend time with friends.
Lois Dawes
My name is Lois Dawes and I’m a REALTOR with eXp Realty. I have a bachelor’s degree in Business from the University of Alabama. I’m an active participant in Carnegie Carnival as member of Crewe of Chaos for the Carnegie Visual Arts Center. In 2020, I received the Rising Star Award from the Morgan County Association of REALTORS.
When I worked in Huntsville, I loved the career, but became detached from my hometown of Decatur. Now that I'm a REALTOR, I've become more connected and to strengthen my ties to Decatur, I wanted to become a Commodore to aid new businesses, build new lasting relationships with my Chamber and other members and particularly those bringing new business to Decatur. My favorite part of being a Commodore is being able to see first-hand new businesses that come to Decatur! The ribbon cuttings allow us to show our true Decatur hospitality!
My husband, Jimmy, is also a Chamber member with Alton Consulting Technologies. We have three dogs. I enjoy walking the Point Mallard trails, bicycling, hula hooping, singing when no one is listening and dancing like no one is watching, but someone usually is. I have a lot of potted plants and flowers, especially aloe plants.
Ashton DeMent
Not Available
Taura Denmon
My name is Taura L. Denmon. I'm originally from St. Louis, Missouri. Upon leaving Jackson State University in Mississippi, with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting, I settled in Montgomery to begin my career.
I have been a resident of Decatur since 2021, and began my new job as Executive Director of the Decatur Housing Authority. Currently, I am in the process of immersing myself in the fabric of North Alabama’s community and housing industry.
I am excited about having an opportunity to serve the community through the Commodores, my sorority and church activities along with traveling the country on my bowling adventures and I hope to have time to relax through it all.
Dewayne Eddy
My name is Dewayne Eddy and I’m a financial advisor at LPL Financial. I have a math degree from Calhoun Community College and a bachelor’s degree from UAH in Industrial and Systems Engineering.
I’ve been a Commodore for 19 years and I love volunteering in the community. The Commodore program allows me to be there for ribbon cuttings and special events. I really enjoy getting to spend time with other businesspeople from the community. I’m also a member of Kiwanis and a board member for Habitat for Humanity of Morgan County.
My wife, Nancy and I have been married for 25 years. We have three children and two dogs. I love spending time with my family. We enjoy traveling, eating and watching/playing sports.
Jared Gargis
My name is Jared Gargis and I am a business advisor and digital strategist with Thryv. I graduated from the University of North Alabama with a degree in Business Administration. I spent 12 years in the marketing/software industry and have spent seven years with Thryv. I am proud to be a consistent leader in new business acquisitions for the company and I am currently in contention for the 2022 President’s Club. I also spent many years as an active member of the Kiwanis Club.
I have enjoyed being involved with the Decatur-Morgan Chamber of Commerce over the past six years. After leaving Decatur for a year, and moving back, I decided to be a Commodore not only for business networking but the ability to be around a very good group people on a consistent basis. I enjoy golf, watching football and running.
Magan Garner
My name is Magan Garner and I am an account executive for Republic Services. I graduated from Auburn University in 2010 with a degree in Business Administration majoring in Finance. I have been a member of the Junior League of Morgan County since 2018.
I have been married to Nick Garner for 6 years and we have two daughters, Madison, 4, and Avery, 1. We have a yellow lab named George. We live in Priceville and we spend a lot of time outside on our land with our children. One of my favorite things to do is cook!
I decided to become a Commodore because I wanted to be one of the first faces new business owners see in our community to welcome them. This group has one common goal, and that is to grow our business community.
Landis Griffin
My name is Landis Griffin and I’m the Executive Director for Habitat for Humanity of Morgan County. I received my associate degree from Calhoun Community College. I have 17 years of experience in non-profit work. I am a board member for the Alabama Association of Habitat Affiliates, and I am a member of the U.S. Council ReStore Advisory Group and the U.S. Council Rural Advisory Group.
I’ve been a Commodore for around 10 years and love being a part of an organization that cheers others on. We get to learn about new things happening in our community and show our support for new companies. My favorite part is meeting new people. One of my proudest achievements is winning the 2015 Rosie Hennessy Commodore of the Year award. To be recognized by my peers for leadership and service to a community I love means everything to me.
I’m married to Heath Griffin and we have two wonderful girls. Kimberly is at Auburn University living her best life and Haleigh Grace is in the 2nd grade at Priceville Elementary School. I love to read and spend time on the water with my family and friends.
Diann Hammon
My name is Diann Hammon and I'm an Assistant Professor of Accounting at Athens State University, where I also serve as the primary advisor for the award-winning IMA Student Chapter Accounting Club.
I have a PhD and I'm a certified public accountant. I have a YouTube channel, titled “Accounting is Awesome.” My husband, Gary, and I have owned several businesses including a construction company and rental properties. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my grandchildren, traveling and listening to music.
Jamitra Hammond
My name is Jamitra Hammond. I've been married to my husband Michael for six years. I have two sons, a daughter-in-law and three beautiful granddaughters. My oldest son, Kenyatta, is an Air Force veteran working as an IT Tech in San Antonio, Texas. He has a lovely wife Brittany and daughters, Zaina and Ameria. My youngest son, Marquitus, attends Northwest Shoals Community College in Muscle Shoals, is majoring in Computer Information Systems.
I have an associates degree in General Studies from Calhoun Community College. I am also currently attending Athens State University where I am working towards obtaining a bachelors degree in Occupational Health and Safety Management.
One of my proudest achievements is becoming a member of the nation's largest accredited leadership honor society known as the National Society of Leadership and Success (Sigma Alpha Pi).
I enjoy traveling with my family visiting different cities and eating at restaurants that we don't have locally. I also enjoy being a Commodore because it provides an opportunity for networking, leadership and support for special events that benefit the community.
Lori Ho-Tung
My name is Lori Hardy Ho-Tung and I am a financial advisor with Renasant Bank.
I am married to my husband, George. I am a graduate of the University of Kentucky. I'm a former board member for the Chamber and I'm currently a board member for the Hospice of the Valley Foundation.
I like to travel and participate in runDisney events! I am a former Commodore Admiral and I enjoy participating because it's a great way for me to support the Chamber and my community. I was honored to receive the Rosie Hennessey Commodore of the Year award.
Cheryl Hicks
Not Available
Kathy Houston
My name is Kathy Houston and I am a senior accreditation and membership representative for the Better Business Bureau.
My husband and I have been married for 40 years and we have two children and two grandchildren. I grew up in Birmingham and attended different professional schools in fields such as electronics, electrical, printing and banking. I am proud to have received several different sales achievement awards throughout my career.
My hobbies are art, traveling and I enjoy working with the local businesses in our area, both new and established, to promote good will and networking with all types of organizations.
I enjoy being a Commodore because it allows me to meet a variety of people and see what is new and already here, in our city. I also enjoy building relationships with businesses, their staff and owners.
Angela Humphrey
My name is Angela Humphrey and I serve as the Employer Relations Specialist with Calhoun Community College's Career Services department. I am a native of Tuscaloosa, however, Huntsville has been my home for over 15 years. I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resources Management from Faulkner University in 2009.
My professional background reflects both industry and education, including Customer Service, Financial Banking, Student Services, Human
Resources and now Career Services. My goal is to provide employers with quality customer service, insight into our services and revealing how hiring Calhoun students can be both rewarding and beneficial to your company and our community.
Jeni Jordan
My name is Jeni Jordan and I am a project engineer with TTL, Inc. I met my husband at Point Mallard when we were both lifeguards in high school. We have been married for ten years and we have four children, three boys and a girl. Byson and Beckett both attend Priceville Elementary School and play baseball for PCRA. Nonah and Buckley attend Promiseland Preschool at Parkview Baptist Church.
As a graduate of Priceville High School, I spent a lot of time in Decatur growing up and decided to stay close to home for college. I received my bachelor’s degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of Alabama in Huntsville and graduated cum laude in 2013.
We attend Shoal Creek Baptist Church and enjoy being involved in all aspects of the church.
My family loves all things outdoors. We spend a lot of time outside enjoying God's creation. Some hobbies of mine specifically include planning events for any occasion, making balloon arches and painting wooden door hangers.
I joined the Commodores to network and meet more people in the Decatur area. As we all dealt with the isolation caused by COVID-19 these last 2 years, I felt the Lord leading me to get outside of the office and my house in an effort to reestablish myself as a contributing member of society. My favorite part of being a Commodore is the opportunity to be a part of the success of small businesses in our area. As the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce organizes these ribbon cuttings and events, we get to be a small part of getting the word out about them. Every small business starts with a dream and the Commodores are there to make dreams become a reality as we get them plugged into the Chamber.
Ashley Madry
My name is Ashley Madry and I was born and raised in Gulfport, Mississippi. In 1995, I relocated to North Alabama to attend college at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. I obtained my undergraduate degree from the University of Alabama in Huntsville in 1998. I have graduate degrees from Southern Christian University and Alabama A&M University. I have worked in the field of social work for over 20 years in both the public and private sectors. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a certification in Private Independent Practice with concentrations in clinical social work and case management.
In 2020, I started my psychotherapy private practice and retired from the Department of Veteran Affairs in 2021 to work full-time in private practice. Currently, I am the owner and clinical therapist of Magee Madry Counseling Services, LLC. I provide individual psychotherapy to adults and specialize in post-traumatic stress disorder, depressive disorder, anxiety disorder and adjustment disorder. In addition, I treat other mental health diagnosis.
I am the author of He Had to Break Me to Bless Me: My Journey of Restoration. I am a member of Lifeline Church, National Association of Social Workers and in the Academy of Certified Social Workers, a Certified Advanced Social Work Case Manager and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
The philosophy of Magee Madry Counseling Services is each individual has a personal journey and while on their personal journey of growth and transformation, they have the ability to positively effect the lives of others.
Barbara Milligan
I am the President and owner of FSI – Fleet Services Inc, established in 2001. We are a courier service specializing in transportation for industrial, commercial, and medical facilities. We transport local, long distance, routine, or hot shot, from 1 – 10,000 lbs., and up to 25 feet long.
I was born and raised on the far south side of Chicago, and I come from an Italian family who settled in Chicago in 1898. My great grandfather came over from Naples, Italy to Ellis Island and worked for the railroad all his life. I married my husband in 1970 and we moved from Chicago to Decatur in 1979. I have two children and two grandchildren. I lost my husband of 49 years in 2019. He was a Disabled American Veteran and he received two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star for Valor during the Vietnam War. He was our hero.
I am a member of the Priceville Church of Christ and am actively involved in the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce, Morgan County Economic Development Association, Better Business Bureau and the Pilot Luncheon Club of Morgan County. I enjoy reading, writing, sewing, scrapbooking, photography, decorating and traveling. I have had several articles published in Christian Woman Magazine and one novelette on Amazon. I am working on the final edits for a historical fiction novel that I have written and hope to have it out by the end of this year.
An interesting note about me is that I have traveled to most of the United States (39 out of 50), Bahamas, St Thomas, St John, Puerto Rico, Cayman Islands, Cancun, Cozumel, Mexico, Belize, Costa Rica, Panama Canal, Hawaii, Canada, Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales, Italy, France, Croatia and Spain!
Benita Owens
I am the Joe Wheeler EMC Director of Community Relations. I have been married to my husband Dwight Owens for 28 years. We have one daughter, two sons and two dogs, Isis and Panda. I have a bachelors degree in Accounting and I am currently working on a Masters of Divinity from Liberty University.
I serve on the Community Action Board of Directors and support all the non-profit organizations on fundraising efforts. I am proud to have been awarded The Rosie Hennessy Award for Commodore of the Year, and one of my biggest accomplishments is creating a Purchasing Department at Joe Wheeler EMC. I enjoy being a Commodore because I enjoy being a liaison for the Chamber and keeping them informed about what’s going on in the community.
In my downtime I enjoy gardening, reading, traveling and learning new things.
Jason Palmer
My name is Jason Palmer and I am a State Farm Agent and owner. I married my middle school/high school sweetheart, Misti Palmer, in 2001 and we have three kids: Gage,18, Easton,16 and Emery,10. We also have a golden doodle, named Larry, and a bunny, named Bob. We stay on-the-go a lot with the kids' sports and other extracurricular activities.
I am a 1994 graduate of Austin High School and a 1999 graduate of Auburn University, with a bachelors degree in Secondary Education.
I currently serve on several boards in Decatur. I am the District 5 Representative on the Decatur City School Board, a Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Board Member, a Decatur-Morgan Hospital Board Member and a Harold Coomer Evangelistic Association Board Member.
One of my proudest achievements is when my wife and I co-won the first ever Fear Factor Couples Episode, which aired back in 2002. I love spending time in the outdoors hunting, fishing and camping. We have a camper that we love to take different places, when our busy schedule allows it. I also enjoy exercising in the mornings with my wife.
As a Commodore, I enjoy going to the ribbon cutting ceremonies, because they allow me to meet new business owners. As a small business owner myself, I learn from other business owners on how I can improve the systems and processes within my own business. Being a Commodore allows me to get out into the community and meet new people and welcome them to our great city. It also allows me to network with fellow business owners.
Kelly Pate
My name is Kelly Pate and I am a Executive Officer for the Greater Morgan County Business Association, Inc. I am married to Frank Pate who owns Shady Days. His company sells and installs motorized awnings, screens and pergolas. We have four grown children and two dogs. We love living in Decatur and we love being active members of our community.
I am a graduate of Decatur High School and the University of South Alabama. I am an active member of the Chamber. I am also a member of the Crewe of Chaos and am proud that we have won best float for Mardi Gras many times. We greatly enjoy working together to build our themes and floats. I am also an active member of the Most Merciful Jesus Catholic Church.
I love to spend time on our boat and collect driftwood. I also like to tap dance. In fact, I like all types of dancing and love to go dancing with my husband. I host a small group at my home once a week and I absolutely love this group and our discussions. I have a great life and enjoying every aspect of it!
I love being a Commodore because I love people and Decatur-Morgan County! I love welcoming new businesses to our area and encouraging new businesses to join the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce. My hope is that I help new businesses feel welcome, embraced and supported when they join the Chamber and have a ribbon cutting.
Jody Peterson
I am the owner of Realty Group of Alabama. I'm a widow and have two children, four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. My pet cat is a phenomenal mouse catcher!
I attended high school in Miami and attended both the University of Miami and UNA. I hold a GRI designation with the National Association of REALTORS.
I have been a member of the Chamber for more than 40 years and I am proud to have received the Commodore of the Year award. I am also a past admiral of the Commodores. I am a past president of the Morgan County Association of REALTORS and have been named REALTOR of the Year. I am also a REALTOR Emeritus for length of service. I was also the first woman president of Morgan County Home Builders Association.
Something interesting about me is that I crew for, and fly in, balloons. I enjoy spending time with my grandchildren and I love to travel when I can. As a Commodore, I like to meet the new business people coming to our area, and I love meeting the new Commodores and watching them get involved in our Chamber and our city.
Chris Priest
My name is Chris Priest and I am the Morgan County Circuit Clerk. I am married to Ruth Priest and we have one daughter, Izzy Kate, who is a student in Decatur City Schools. In addition, we have a miniature schnauzer that takes up much of our time - even though she is the littlest family member.
After graduating from Southside High School, located in Southside, Alabama, I went to Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, Tennessee. Upon my graduation, I went to law school at Cumberland School of Law at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama. I graduated from Cumberland in 1999.
I am a past-President of the Kiwanis Club of Decatur (Decatur's oldest civic organization). In addition, my family attends Decatur Presbyterian Church, PCA and would love to have you join us!
My proudest achievement is becoming a dad. We did not know if it was going to be in our future but God gave us an amazing daughter and we are thankful to Him for it. I also was elected Morgan County Circuit Clerk in 2012 and reelected in 2018.
I have been involved with the Commodore program since 2004 and it is an excellent avenue to meet many various business members. My favorite part of being involved with the organization is meeting new people! It allows one to network with like-minded individuals with a priority on issues affecting our business community.
An interesting fact about me is that I'm somewhat addicted to ShopGoodwill.com. It's amazing what you can find on there! When I’m not on ShopGoodwill.com, I enjoy traveling and running.
Lynn Reeves
My name is Lynn Reeves and I am a Partner at Wear Howell.
My husband Mike Reeves and I have been married 39 years. We have three grown children and three grandchildren. We have a family business called Reeves Farm near Hartselle with the best strawberries, peaches and homemade ice cream.
I attended Morgan County High School (now Hartselle High School), and Auburn University where I earned a bachelors degree in Business Administration. I am proud to have received my CPA certificate and I am a certified public accountant.
I am a member of the Decatur Women's Chamber of Commerce and serve as treasurer for the Hartselle Rotary Club, the Decatur-Morgan County Entrepreneurial Center and the Morgan Baptist Association. I attend First Baptist Church of Hartselle and enjoy the outdoors, yard work, spending time with family and traveling.
I joined the Commodores to meet new people with the hopes of expanding my client base.
Miranda Runion
My name is Miranda Runion and I’m a project administrator for TTL, Inc. I joined the Commodore program this year to learn more about our area and find opportunities for our business. I enjoy learning about the history of our city and meeting new people. TTL, Inc. sponsors the Accelerated Reader program at Oak Park Elementary School. I have overseen the project for the past 12 years. It’s a great way to sponsor our local schools and encourage children to enjoy reading.
I graduated from Danville High School. My husband, Nathan and I have been married six years. He is a correctional officer at Limestone Correctional Facility. I have a daughter, four stepchildren and two step-grandchildren. I enjoy spending quality time with my family, reading and working on my embroidery projects.
Mayte Sanchez
Not Available
Linda Schoo
My name is Linda Schoo and I am a franchise owner of Marco's Pizza in Decatur. My husband Jerry and I have three children and five grandchildren. Our son, Danny, is the general manager for our Marco's Pizza business and hopes to have his daughter, Yanet, join our team soon. He and and his wife, Maria, also try to keep up with their two sons, Alex and Daniel, who love soccer and basketball. Our daughter, Allison, and husband, Chad, have 2 wonderful little girls, Reese and Riley, and are in the process of relocating to Georgia from Florida. Our son, Kevin, is a director with Dollar General in Nashville and his wife, Maggie, is a Clinical Pharmacist. My family is my proudest achievement and the best reward I have ever received!
My work career started in the medical field as a registered radiologic technologist specializing in Computed Tomography. I supported the American Red Cross as a First Aid/CPR/AED instructor and managed the workplace safety training program and AED sales in Madison County. Sales and marketing positions with Philips Healthcare's Government/Military sales team allowed me to travel extensively and support the Department of Defense and federal government with medical equipment. Retirement has brought me to Marco's Pizza.
I serve on the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and I am a member of the Decatur Morgan County Tourism group. Our Marco's Pizza business partners with schools, agencies, churches and other groups to provide fundraising spirit days which allow us to give back to our community. We also support many sports teams and other organizations in Decatur-Morgan County acting as sponsors for their programs.
Joining the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce has allowed me to take advantage of the support provided by Chamber team and members. I am a Commodore to extend the support I have received to other businesses and entrepreneurs.
Cindy Smith
My name is Cindy Smith and I began my career as a financial advisor with Edward Jones in 2018, and opened my office on Danville Road in 2019. As a financial advisor, I am committed to helping my clients effectively manage their investments and keep them on track to help reach their financial dreams and goals.
I was born and raised in Selma, Alabama. I met my husband at Auburn University where we got married and then moved to Decatur in 2009. We have two kids and two fur babies. We sold our house in 2019, and moved into our camper at Point Mallard while we built our home in Decatur.
I have a BSBA in Finance from Auburn University and a MBA from the University of Alabama Huntsville. I attend the Church of the Highlands, Huntsville Campus and am a Financial Peace University small group leader.
My community involvement includes: Chamber of Commerce Board Member (2021-present), Chamber Commodores Team Leader (2020-present), Past President NAL Auburn Alumni Club, Founder Professional Women's Alliance of NAL, Secretary Decatur Jaycees (2014) and an Excellence in Leadership Graduate (2014).
I enjoy traveling, camping, hiking, being on the water, reading, gardening and anything outdoors. I have traveled quite a bit and have been to most of the New England states (Bar Harbor, Maine is a favorite), California (Bay Area), Dominican Republic, Cabo San Lucas, England, Paris and Normandy France, as well as Italy.
I hope to one day hike Mt. LeConte and stay at their remote cabin and travel to Asia, New Zealand, the Holy Lands and Spain.
Tammy Snider
My name is Tammy Snider and I am a Senior Mortgage Banker/AVP with Renasant Bank. I'm married to Scott Snider who retired from GE Appliances in 2014. We have four children, four grandchildren, and four dogs.
I attended Decatur High School through 10th grade and graduated from Northview High School in Dothan. I went to college at Wallace State Community College in Dothan.
I am a Kiwanis senior member, a Greater Morgan County Builders Association board member, a Morgan County Association Of REALTORS member, and an Affiliate Council member. One of my proudest achievements is earning the GMCBA 2016 Associate of the Year.
I enjoy my time with family and my grandchildren keep me busy with many fun activities. I also enjoy riding my bike.
Daniel Starr
My name is Daniel Starr and I am the Managing Partner at Lightwire Solutions. I am married to my wife Amy and we have one son, Caleb, who will be 6 in December. I have an associates degree from Calhoun Community College in CIS and multiple IT certifications.
I have just recently joined the Commodores program and I am looking forward to being a part of the community and doing what I can to make it better.
I serve as a mentor in the Decatur Morgan CEO program and I also serve in the worship band at church. Something interesting about me is that I was the first person from my family to graduate college, I enjoy playing guitar and I have more than 150 Funko Pops.
Glenn Stokes
Not Available
Baretta Taylor
I am from South Hill in Southern Virginia near the North Carolina border. I moved to Decatur in 2017 and joined TN Valley Media where I am the current Director Of Sales. I have spent a total of 21 years in the media industry.
I have been married for 23 years to my wife Rachel and we have two children, 23-year-old Damien, a former Corporal in the US Marine Corps (CH53 Crew Chief) and Kaitlyn, age 21, a waitress at Chili’s on the Beltline and Burningtree Country Club.
I enjoy being involved in my community. I'm the former USSSA Showcase Baseball Coach and VA State Director, a former Board Chair for the Lake County Young Professionals, Lake County Chamber of Commerce, South Hill Chamber of Commerce and Roanoke Valley Main Street Committee. I am also a past Commodore team captain with the Decatur-Morgan Chamber Of Commerce and the Decatur Daybreak Rotary Club 2021 Rotarian Of The Year. I'm a huge Duke basketball fan, and a former lead singer in a modern rock band.
Sue Terrell
I am Sue Terrell, the founder and Executive Director of Hands Across Decatur. My better half is Ed Sullivan. Yes, that is his real name for those of you old enough to remember. We have been together three years. We have five children between us and three grandchildren. They keep us hopping. We have two labs, Angel and Ziggy. We have three alpacas, four goats and other various animals.
I made the choice to get married fresh out of high school so affording college was not an option. My education comes from determination and not giving up. I worked at Abbott Laboratories in Sturgis, Michigan. I owned and operated a successful medical transcription business from 1992 to 2007. In 2012, I founded Hands Across Decatur in my living room. Now we are in a 5000 square foot building. We are an all volunteer non-profit 501c3 organization passionate about assisting our growing homeless population on their path to self-sufficiency. We are supported solely by members of our community without grants or government funding.
I would like to provide our services to not just the unhoused population but also others in need who may need a hand up. Providing pertinent information about how the community can get more involved with our Path Forward Project is crucial to those in need and our community.
I am proud to have been recognized as the Decatur Non-Profit Organization of the Year in 2019 (Hands Across Decatur) and Small Business of the Year in 2002 (Tri-State Medical Transcription).
Ed and I love just sitting on our deck with our and watching the tugboats go by. It's quiet and relaxing here on the Tennessee River. Concerts are one of my favorite things. I've been to 29 Rod Stewart concerts and have met him very briefly several times.
Ed and I both love traveling to Isla Mujeres, Mexico where we own a house. I spent almost a year in Mexico by myself totally remodeling the house after the purchase. I love to travel and have travelled to France, Germany, Poland, Croatia, Hungary, Serbia, Austria, Switzerland and Mexico. My favorite city so far is Budapest and I have been several times.
I believe in becoming more involved in other aspects of the community and educating others how to truly help our less fortunate and that’s one of the reasons I became a Commodore. I like the "small town" atmosphere feeling of being a Commodore and getting to know others, many in the same type of social service field that I am in.
Jamna Tucker
My name is Jamna Abdalah Tucker and I am the business manager with Tucker Contracting, LLC and a project engineer with iWebVisit.com, LLC. My husband Jon and I met in Managua, Nicaragua in 2006. We have been married for 14 years and have been blessed with three beautiful children, Evan, Laura and Will. We have two rescue dogs and two cats.
In 2001, I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from the American University (UAM) in Managua, Nicaragua. I later obtained a post-graduate diploma in Project Management. In 2006, I spent a year in Guatemala City attending the Central American Theological Seminary (SETECA) and received an associate degree in Transcultural Missions.
When I first moved to Decatur, I volunteered every week at the Neighborhood Christian Center and assisted the Hispanic clients. Later, I joined Sav-A-Life Pregnancy Resource Center as a peer-counselor volunteer primarily serving our non-English speaking clients. In 2010, I was hired as their Learning Center Coordinator where I got to teach Spanish Bible Studies. I currently serve in my church's nursery, and I also help with my children's sports teams as needed. I work full-time as iWebVisit's project engineer while also managing my husband's small business, Tucker Contracting.
One of the things I am most proud of is obtaining my United States Citizenship this year. I also graduated from the Chamber's 2021-2022 Excellence in Leadership program.
I love traveling and jogging but these days my free time is spent cheering on our children and their teams at the ball fields. I played basketball in high school and college, so I enjoy playing basketball and baseball with my sons and taking my daughter to gymnastics practices every week. I'm also a big foodie who enjoys cooking traditional Nicaraguan meals and trying out new foods and restaurants. I'm bilingual (Spanish & English), but I've also been studying French for a few years and hope to be able to go back to Europe sometime soon.
I enjoy being an active part of the community through my church and various volunteering opportunities and programs. The Commodore program allows me to serve alongside like-minded individuals and help other small business owners reach their goals. Not having grown up in this area, I really enjoy meeting new people that work in different fields and getting involved in all the new things that are coming to our region.
Bryan Vest
My name is Bryan Vest and I am the Service Line Director at Decatur Morgan Hospital. I am the proud father of three grown children, two sons and a daughter, and six amazing grandchildren. They are my life and my heart!
I graduated from Falkville High School in 1984 and I hold a Master of Science in Nursing Administration from the University of North Alabama.
I have been a Commodore for two years and I got involved with the program in order to represent my employer and gain access to the community in a different way. Being a Commodore opens up many avenues to serve our community and contribute to its continued growth. My favorite part about being a Commodore is networking and learning from so many wonderful individuals that have such an amazing impact on our community.
Darrell Wates
Not Available
Larry Waye
My name is Larry Waye and I am currently serving as the Pastor of Spiritual Development at Decatur Baptist Church. I started in this position in 2019 tasked with the opportunity to establish a process based on II Timothy 2:2 and it is a process through which we encourage, edify and equip believers to grow spiritually in their daily walk with the Lord Jesus Christ. For 10 years prior, I served as the founding Executive Director of the Decatur-Morgan County Entrepreneurial Center, helping to establish a viable business incubator and create an innovative atmosphere to encourage entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams.
I have over forty-nine years of experience in the not-for-profit and for-profit business environment centered around full and part-time gospel ministry and entrepreneurial experiences (including the successful startup of a church, an insurance agency, a private trucking company, a multi-faceted 88 acre sports park and a business incubator as well as several non-profit organizations both here and in foreign countries.) I also have my own LLC providing me opportunities to speak to businesses, churches, non-profits and professional groups of all sizes.
I was born in Pueblo, Colorado and lived there until my family moved to Ardmore, Oklahoma. I entered the 8th grade in Oklahoma and continued my education at Cameron University where I received a bachelors degree in Theology. I am the third child of four. My father was a minister of the Gospel. My mother was an entrepreneur running her own accounting business from home. My siblings and my parents have all passed away.
I am active in the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce, Rotary of Decatur Noon Club, NARCOG, Decatur Morgan Hospital, First Priority of Greater Decatur, the E – Center, and Centershot Ministry of Decatur Baptist Church.
I enjoy road riding bicycles and golfing. I have traveled to 43 of the 50 United States, Canada, Mexico, Italy, England and Africa.
Bo Weinman
My name is Bo Weinman and I am an Insurance Advisor at Peck-Glasgow Agency, Inc. I am a 1998 Graduate of Hartselle High School and a 2003 Graduate of Auburn University. I married my wife, Kim, in 2006 and together we have a son, Turner (14), a daughter, Samantha (12), and another daughter, Emerson (9). We also have two cats, Fiona and Luna.
Some of my distinctions include: Excellence in Leadership Graduate (2015- 2016 Class), Hospice of The Valley Foundation Board Member (2016- Present), Hospice Of The Valley Foundation Board President (2020- Present), Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors (2020- Present), Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee, Vice Chair of Leadership & Networking (2020- Present).
I have been a Commodore for seven years and I initially joined to connect with leaders and like-minded business professionals. I enjoy helping new and existing Chamber members grow their respective businesses. I was proud to be named the 2022 Rosie Hennessy Commodore of the Year.
I am an avid fan of the Auburn Tigers and the Atlanta Braves and I enjoy being outdoors, attending concerts and telling a good dad joke. Another interesting fact about me is that I am a former Spelling Bee winner at F.E. Burleson Elementary!
Jennifer Wright
My name is Jennifer Wright and I am a REALTOR with MarMac Real Estate. I am married to Sonny Wright and we have two children who both live in the Decatur area. We have been blessed with one grandchild and now our first great- grandchild.
My husband and I have been activity in civic work our entire married life of 53 years. Right now, we are working on the committee for the Alabama Jubilee- a wonderful weekend of hot air balloons at Point Mallard. We have been active with this committee for more than 30 years. I also received numerous awards for my civic work with the Decatur Jaycee at the local and state level.
I was born and raised in Morgan County and attended Morgan County Schools. I began my career as a dental assistant before becoming a dental hygienist. I then moved on to the American Red Cross where I recruited volunteers and helped organize blood drives. For the last 32 years, I have been a Realtor.
I attend the Church of the Good Shepherd, Episcopal. In my downtime, I enjoy reading and sitting on my front porch after mowing and spending hours pulling weeds.
I enjoy being a Commodore because I enjoy doing things for my community and being involved in the activities that are happening. It is a good opportunity for meeting like-minded people.
Sady Z Visser
I have been the owner of Sady Z Visser Insurance Agency for the past 17 years where I specialize in business, life and group benefits. My agency is able to help clients who speak Spanish, Chinese and Korean.
I am the proud mother of three children. My oldest son is attending UCF where he is working on his Mechanical Engineering degree with an emphasis on solar energy.
I am involved in the Decatur, Huntsville, Madison, and Athens Chambers of Commerce, the Tennessee Valley Women in Business, BNI, the Builders Association, the Catalyst Center, the AUM Foundation and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
My burning desire is to continue to grow personally and in my local communities by sharing opportunities and blessings as much as possible.