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.
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. 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.
2023 - 2024 Commodore Class:
(Click on each person's picture to send them an email.)
*Commodore Photos Courtesy: Jennifer Sherwood Photography
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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 18 years of experience in non-profit work. I am the incoming State Board President 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 3rd grade. I love to read and spend time on the water with my family and friends.
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.
Cassidy Chandler
My name is Cassidy Chandler. I am a dedicated and experienced State Farm agent, serving the Decatur community for the past 5 years. Located on 6th Avenue in Decatur, I am passionate about helping my clients protect what matters most to them. With my friendly and approachable nature, I enjoy meeting new people and building lasting relationships. Being a part of the Commodores since 2020 has given me the opportunity to continue building those relationships within Morgan County. It was important to me to become an active member of the Chamber to provide help to new businesses opening in the Decatur area so that they get the love and support that I received when opening my office in 2019, and the Commodores have paved a path for me to do just that!
I am also proud to be a founding member of a local Professional Entrepreneurial Women’s organization called ANEW, where I serve as a Board member and Social chair. I graduated from Mortimer Jordan High School and went on to graduate from Wallace State Summa Cum Laude with an Associate degree in Applied Science. I hold a License with the State of Alabama in Property, Casualty, Life and Health Insurance along with my Mortgage License.
Outside of work, I love to immerse myself in the world of books, always seeking new knowledge and inspiration! You can often find me engrossed in a novel while enjoying the serene beauty of Smith Lake or lounging by the pool. I believe that spending time outdoors helps me to rejuvenate and stay connected with nature. I also have 2 dogs that I love dearly, a pug named Harlie and a Morkie-poo named Frankie.
Cheyenne Barran
My name is Cheyenne Barran, and I'm the Marketing and Administrative Coordinator at Lightwire Solutions. I am originally from Athens, but I am a Decatur High graduate. I am married with two beautiful daughters. We've lived in Decatur for more than 10 years now and we were lucky enough to purchase a home during the pandemic. Our hobbies include extra-curricular club meetings, roller derby, hosting sleepovers, enjoying community events, crafting, swimming, attending Trash Panda games and my favorite, Chamber meetings and events!
This is my first year as a Commodore and I joined to cultivate relationships and expand our influence in the community and surrounding areas. I love meeting interesting people and having a positive impact on the community!
Ashley Boyd
My name is Ashley Boyd and I am the Executive Director of the Committee on Church Cooperation (CCC). I graduated from UAB in 2013 with degrees in Psychology and Spanish, and have worked in the nonprofit sector since then. I am a member of several service clubs and currently serve as the Secretary of Morgan County VOAD.
I have been married to my husband, Shane, since 2015 and we have one son named Oliver. We recently became licensed foster parents, and are excited about what this journey will bring. We live in Madison and enjoy spending time as a family and attending sports/activities for the kiddos. I love to read, crochet, paint, and bake when I have the time.
This is my first year as a Commodore, and I am looking forward to getting to know and support the community better. I was raised by two small business families and spent my childhood watching my parents navigate business ownership as my grandparents turned over the reins. I remember attending a ribbon cutting for my Grandfather's store, and how amazing it felt as a child to see all the smiling faces supporting our family frame shop. Now, as the leader of a small non-profit, being a Commodore allows me to get out in the community and cheer on new and existing businesses.
Belinda Bullard
Not Available
Melanie Burbage
My name is Melanie Burbage and I'm the Branch Manager at AtWork Staffing. I graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration from Middle Tennessee State University and I have an Associate of Arts from the University of Tennessee Southern where I also played basketball. I'm a single mom to two fur babies, Elliott and Lexie. I love to do stained glass projects, traveling to just about anywhere, car enthusiast, love sports, concerts, huge fan of Elvis and Elton John and the Tennessee Vols.
This is my first year as a Commodore and I joined because of the connections this team creates. It gives us a chance to promote Decatur as the place to work and play and I'm glad to be on the front line helping lead that charge.
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 24 years.
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.
Liz Couch
My name is Liz Couch and I'm the Business Development Director at Deep South Construction Pros and Deep South Roofing Pros. I am a graduate of Decatur High School and attended Calhoun Community College for Accounting and Business Management. I have worked in the construction field for over five years and truly love my job and the people I work with.
I lived in Decatur for almost 25 years. I now currently reside in Lawrence County with my two children and our small arrangement of animals, which includes chickens and goats. In my spare time I enjoy fishing, taking care of our animals, hunting and doing hands on projects around my home.
This is my first year as a Commodore. I wanted to be a Commodore to better serve the community and businesses located within Morgan County. The Chamber was such an amazing help to our business and I look forward to paying it forward to other businesses.
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.
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, most recently serving as President.
I have been married to Nick Garner for 7 years and we have two daughters, Madison, 5, and Avery, 2. We have a yellow lab named George. We live in Somerville and enjoy spending time at our house and with friends. I enjoy cooking, when I get the time.
This will be my second year as a commodore. I enjoy being the first set of people to welcome a new business or existing business to our community and the Chamber.
Ryan Cate Gibson
My name is Dr. Ryan Cate Gibson, Ph.D. and I'm the cofounder and CEO of Holistic Performance Group. I have spent over 30 years developing and delivering multi-lingual, cross-cultural curricula for educational institutions, social service organizations and government ministries in Asia, Europe and the US.
After working in the hospitality industry in housekeeping and entertainment for many years, my experiences led me to develop training that is accessible to all and focuses on increasing the quality of: work, life and community. Leadership development has been at the core of my international work, resulting in collaborative programs for underserved women and immigrants in Oman and Italy.
Diann Hammon
My name is Diann Hammon. I am employed as an Associate Professor of Accounting at Athens State University, where I also serve as Chair of the Accounting, Statistics, and Analytics Department. I earned a Ph.D. in Business Administration from the University of South Alabama and hold the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation. I am a subject matter expert for several accounting and statistics textbooks and host my own YouTube channel, titled “Accounting is Awesome.” My husband, Gary, and I have spent most of our careers as entrepreneurs, having owned construction and property management companies. In my spare time, I love to spend time with family and travel.
I am beginning my sixth year as a Commodore. I joined because I saw it as a way I could give something back to the community. It's fun to meet new members and encourage them as well as interact with all the other Commodores and Chamber staff. Decatur is a great city with so much to offer and I love helping promote it.
Cheryl Hicks
Not Available
Kelsey Hill
My name is Kelsey Hill and I'm the Branch Manager for Alabama Credit Union. I am married and have three kids ages 16, 13 and 2. I graduated from Danville High School in 2007. I have been in banking since 2016 and joined Alabama Credit Union in 2020. It was right in the middle of COVID, so it has been a fun, but wild ride. I love going to concerts, reading and dancing around the house with my kids.
This is my first year being a Commodore. I originally applied for the Commodore program because my manager told me to, but I have learned that I really enjoy meeting all of the new people and businesses that join the Chamber. I love getting out and supporting Decatur's growth!
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 in 2016.
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.
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!
Clint Murpgy
My name is Clint Murphy and I'm a REALTOR®/Property Operations Manager for MeritHouse Realty and Capital Management. I have been married to my beautiful wife, Laura, for seven years. We have a two amazing God-daughters and a 14-year-old Labradoodle that drives us nuts because he's blind. We enjoy spending our free time exploring and serving our community in different ways through one-on-one connections, community events or with our church family at BComing Church.
I have been a Commodore for less than a year. I enjoy being a Commodore and that I get to help promote our city as well as help local businesses get connected and have the tools they need to be successful.
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 in 2005, 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.
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 Rosie Hennessey Commodore of the Year award in 2002. 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 40 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 Bachelor's 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, attending sporting events and traveling.
I joined the Commodores to meet new people with the hopes of expanding my client base and learning about our community.
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'm a financial advisor with Edward Jones. I was born and raised in Selma, AL. My husband and I moved to Decatur in 2009 after graduating from Auburn University. I later received my MBA from The University of Alabama in Huntsville.
I enjoy being an active part of the community through various volunteering opportunities, board positions and leading small groups with Church of the Highlands. My husband, Byron, and I are proud to call Decatur home where we are raising two kids, Addy Jo and Rand, and rescue dog Rocky.
I opened my Edward Jones office in 2019 in Decatur and currently serve on my region's leadership team. As a financial advisor, I'm committed to helping my clients effectively manage their investments and keeping them on track to reach their financial dreams and goals. My team takes pride in helping individuals, families and business owners while caring about them deeply in a professional manner. To better serve my clients, I earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification.
I have been involved with the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce since I moved to Decatur and so naturally it was the first place I went when starting my financial advising business. The Chamber has had a positive impact in me leading a successful career in Decatur and raising my family here. I have been a Commodore since 2019. I joined the because I am passionate about the positive growth in Decatur and supporting new and existing businesses.
Glenn Stokes
I'm Glenn Stokes, an Account Executive with J.T. Ray Company. I was born in Tuscaloosa, raised in the city of Reform but have made my home in Athens, Alabama. My journey in the business world started when I graduated from the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa back in 1983, laying the groundwork for my career. Family is a cornerstone of my life, and I take great pride in being a father to my son, Trey.
Beyond my professional endeavors, I'm engaged in various community and service organizations. I'm an active member of the Alabama Emmaus Community and of First Methodist Church in Athens, where I participate in church activities and events.
My passion for both sports and spirituality led me to serve as the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Board Chairman. Additionally, I contribute to the local community through my memberships in the Athens Rotary Club and the Decatur Kiwanis Club, organizations dedicated to service and community development. My appreciation for the arts and culture is evident in my role on the Athens Storytelling Festival Board of Directors.
As an ambassador for the Decatur-Morgan County, Athens-Limestone, Hartselle and Lawrence County Chambers of Commerce, I actively contribute to fostering economic growth, promoting local businesses and building connections within our community.
Baretta Taylor
My name is Baretta Taylor and I'm the Advertising Director at Tennessee Valley Media. I am from a lake community near the North Carolina border in Southern Virginia. I am married to my wife Rachel of 23 years. I have 2 children: Damien, 23, and Kaitlyn, 21, who both live in Decatur. We have a Jack Russel-American Bulldog mix named Chuma.
I'm the Media & Public Relations Chair for Rotary Club of Decatur Daybreak and was recently recognized as Rotarian of the Year for our club. I'm an avid outdoorsman and sports fan.
My favorite part of being a Commodore is the networking opportunities it provides to a wide variety of businesses and organizations. I really enjoy being able to help businesses locally, plus the opportunities to meet new people and make new connections in the community.
Sue Terrell
My name is Sue Terrell and I am the Founder and Executive Director of Hands Across Decatur. In 2012, I founded Hands Across Decatur in my living room. Now, we are in a 5,000 square-foot building and we won the 2019 Decatur Non-Profit Organization of the Year.
We are an all volunteer, non-profit 501c3 organization that's 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 love working with our unhoused community and our community members in need.
I became a Commodore because I believe in becoming more involved in other aspects of the community and educating others on how to truly help our less fortunate.
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, three grandchildren and two labs. We have several four-legged grands: three alpacas, four goats and other various animals. In our spare time, we love just sitting on our deck and watching the tugboats go by or attending concerts.
Melaine Tyson
My name is Melanie Tyson and I'm the Marketing Manager for Kilgro & Associates, Inc. Insurance Agency. I am from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and I moved to Alabama in 2012. I fell in love with the south and the wonderful people in the community.
I attended Pennsylvania State University where I played volleyball for four years and then I finished up my college courses online through Arizona State University. I graduated with a bachelor's degree in Human Development and Family Sciences in 2013.
I met my husband 11 years ago and we have been married for almost six years and have two daughters who are always keeping me busy! I have worked for the Kilgro & Associates Insurance agency for over three years and it is wonderful to work with great people who truly care about their clients! I had the opportunity to work for the Chamber and witness all the good they do for the community and it is an honor to be a Commodore and support the community in any way that I can!
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
Bo Weinman
My name is Bo Weinman and I am a 1998 Graduate of Hartselle High School and a 2003 Graduate of Auburn University. I joined Banc Card of America, Inc. as a relationship manager in 2023, after serving the community as an insurance agent for 10 years at the Peck-Glasgow Agency, Inc.
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!
Jakita White
My name is Jakita White and I'm an Account Executive for Aveanna Hospice. I am native of Anniston Alabama. I graduated from Gadsden State College with my practical nursing degree. I've been in long term care for more than 25 years. Being able to educate the community on the benefits of Aveanna Hospice has been my absolute pleasure. To add to being an advocate for senior services, I am also the CEO of Love Beyond, LLC which is a nonprofit organization for domestic violence. In my spare time, I love shopping and traveling with my two adult kids.
This is my first year as a commodore and it has been the best thing for me. Not just for my business, but for my networking skills. My goal in being a Commodore is to be a great staple in our community. I want to be able to be one of the best leaders and the skills and relationships I've gain from the program will help me be a better person.
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 active 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.
Philip Wright
My name is Philip Wright and I'm an Associate Broker for the Grisham Group. As a foster parent, husband, youth pastor and leader in the real estate industry, I've dedicated my life to making a positive impact on others. In my role as a foster parent, I provide a loving and nurturing environment for children in need, offering them stability and support during challenging times.
I'm a devoted husband, supporting my spouse, Vickie Wright, and creating a strong and loving partnership. Together, we navigate life's challenges and share in the joys and triumphs of our shared journey. My passion for youth development extends beyond my role as a foster parent, as I also serve as a youth pastor.
In the real estate market, I have achieved remarkable success, distinguishing myself as a multi-million-dollar producer. With my extensive knowledge and expertise, I have built my own team, leveraging their collective skills to provide exceptional service to clients.
I also serve on multiple boards, dedicating my time and expertise to organizations that strive to make a positive difference. I have raised over $100,000 for various local charities, providing critical support to those in need. Among the many accolades I have received, one noteworthy honor is the Mickey Phillips Children's Award, recognizing my contributions to improving the lives of children. This prestigious award highlights my commitment to creating a brighter future for young individuals, emphasizing my dedication to making a meaningful difference in their lives.
Photos not available for the following Commodores:
Andy Chambers - McGriff Tire
Luke Etheredge - Providence Insurance
Joseph McKaig - Decatur Baptist Church
Sonia Morris - GIA & Co. Boutique
Bill Nelson - RE/MAX Platinum
Melissa Nichols - Renasant Bank
Sellers Rawson - ABS Business Systems
Clarence Roberts - 1st Impression Cleaning Services