Chamber, Alabama ONE host Lunch, Learn

 

By Christa Jennings

Senior Staff Writer

 

The Coosa County Chamber of Commerce held a Lunch and Learn event on June 17 as an opportunity to share information and network with Chamber members.

Twenty-five attendees participated in the event, which was the Chamber’s first Lunch and Learn of 2025, hosted by Alabama ONE. Elected officials who attended were Sen. Clyde Chambliss, Rep. Ben Robbins, Judge of Probate Richard Dean, Sheriff Michael Howell, Revenue Commissioner Debra Lamberth, County Commission Chair Lamar Daugherty, and Rockford Councilmember Nieshia Whetstone, who is also a member of the Chamber Board of Directors.

Chamber of Commerce President Elmore Unbehant welcomed everyone to the Lunch and Learn and explained that the Chamber is planning more. Accordia Health is expected to host one, and Unbehant said that hopefully Prime Management with Goodwater Nursing Home will also be able to host one.

He explained that these events provide an opportunity to network and learn more about Chamber members.

The event started with introductions around the room, while attendees enjoyed lunch from LeeBoys BBQ, a new Chamber member.

Alabama ONE representatives who attended the event were Jared Kirby, area executive; Suzanne Scott, Rockford market manager; and Kimberly Adams, business development officer.

Kirby stated that he is glad to be part of Alabama ONE’s growth. He added that Alabama ONE is directed at rural areas and has a heart for rural Alabama.

Adams and Scott led a presentation highlighting various aspects of Alabama ONE and services it offers, with Adams reviewing the history of the credit union and its locations, as well.

Scott reviewed details relating to the three different types of credit cards the credit union offers, as well as loan products and mortgages.

Adams provided information on the insurance department and explained that they offer free quotes and comparisons for auto, home, life, business, and specialty insurance, including pet insurance.

She also stated that Alabama ONE offers financial wellness with education and counseling. The credit union also has a Wealth Advisory Department to help advise with investments, retirement planning, estate planning, and risk management.

Scott reviewed information relating to personal and business certificates of deposits, or CDs, which were described as “very competitive.” She also highlighted the credit union’s Ascend Fund that functions as a savings account and reviewed Alabama ONE’s digital banking with many services available through its mobile app.

Adams also spoke on Alabama ONE giving back and serving Coosa County. Some of those highlights include being an active member of the Coosa County Chamber of Commerce, being an active member of the Alabama Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), participation with the Coosa County Extension Office, having awarded a scholarship to a Central High School Coosa County 2024 senior, making a donation toward the BridgeWays summer camp scholarship fund, partnering with the Coosa County School System, being active members and sponsors of the Coosa County Cattlemen’s Association, being an active member of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, participation in the United Way Day of Action, and being an active member of the Children’s Policy Council.

Scott mentioned that Alabama ONE offers both business and personal services, highlighting those. She added that they have “a great team” and are here to help the community.

Kirby closed the presentation reviewing further details of some of Alabama ONE’s available services, took questions from attendees and thanked the Chamber of Commerce for the opportunity to host the event.

Alabama ONE had door prize giveaways for an umbrella, picnic blanket and two hats, as well as goody bags for all attendees.

To learn more about the Coosa County Chamber of Commerce and upcoming events, visit its website at www.coosachamber.com or its social media page at www.facebook.com/coosachamber.