September Luncheon Features Rep. Susan DuBose

Leeds Area Chamber September Luncheon Features Rep. Susan DuBose

The Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Alabama State Rep. Susan DuBose as the featured speaker at its September luncheon on Thursday, Sept. 17, at Leeds First Methodist Church.

The September luncheon was sponsored by Vick Accounting & Tax Service LLC.

DuBose, who represents Alabama House District 45, spoke about economic development, job growth, education, workforce development and other issues before the Alabama Legislature.

DuBose began by emphasizing her connection to Leeds, noting that it is the only community she represents in its entirety. DuBose said she has worked to become involved in the community and enjoys participating in everything from school visits and community celebrations to helping constituents navigate state agencies.

Much of DuBose’s presentation focused on economic development and Alabama’s efforts to attract new businesses and investment, including efforts to prepare additional sites for future industrial development. She also highlighted the Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy (SEEDS) Act, which provides funding to help communities prepare industrial sites for development.

DuBose said workforce development is an important part of continued economic growth and discussed efforts to provide Alabama students with multiple pathways after high school.

Education was another major focus of the presentation. DuBose, who serves on the House Education Policy Committee, discussed Alabama’s emphasis on early literacy and math proficiency as well as career and technical education. She said students should have opportunities to pursue both college and career pathways, including earning credentials while still in high school that can prepare them to enter the workforce.

DuBose also discussed several other issues expected to receive attention in Montgomery, including taxes and the cost of living, public safety, health care and mental health services.

091726 Susan DuBose speaking

Special thanks go to the ladies of Leeds First Methodist Church for graciously serving the meal, Chamber Student Diplomats for their assistance, Three Earred Rabbit for providing lunch, and Leeds First Methodist Church for hosting the event.

September luncheon speaker with board_600
2026-2027 LACC Diplomats
2026-2027 Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce High School Diplomats

Several members of the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce leadership joined DuBose for a group photo following the program. Shown from left are Casey Parsons, Guild Mortgage; Maggie Holback, AmFirst; Steve Karr, board president, Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce; Tena Payne, Earthborn Studios; Rep. Susan DuBose; Brandon Rogers, Leeds First Methodist Church; Debbie Watkins, Bob Watkins Realty; Emanuel Vallejo, Spectrum; and Josh Marks, executive director, Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce.