Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce Hosts Brigadier General Jeffrey L. Newton (Ret) As Luncheon Speaker

LEEDS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOSTS BRIGADIER GENERAL JEFFREY L NEWTON (RET) AS LUNCHEON SPEAKER

The Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Brigadier General Jeffrey L. Newton (Ret), former Director of the Joint Staff for the Alabama National Guard, as the keynote speaker at its monthly luncheon on November 21. Attendees were inspired by General Newton’s insights on veteran-focused initiatives and his extensive military career.

During his presentation, General Newton highlighted key programs supporting veterans and their families, including a $50M Dependent Scholarship Program that provides educational opportunities for the children of veterans. He also discussed Alabama's five state-of-the-art veterans' homes and shared plans for a potential second veterans’ cemetery in North Alabama, which would further honor the service of the state's military personnel.

General Newton emphasized the importance of federal per diem dollars, which help offset costs for operating the veterans' homes, and provided details on eligibility requirements for burial at veterans' cemeteries. He encouraged veterans and their families to pre-register at va.gov to streamline the process.

With a career spanning over four decades, General Newton served in various leadership roles, including deployments in support of Operations ALLIED FORCE, ENDURING FREEDOM, and IRAQI FREEDOM. His numerous accolades include the Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and induction into the USAF Enlisted Heritage Hall's "Wall of Achievers."

The Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce was honored to host General Newton and extend gratitude for his service to the nation and his ongoing advocacy for veterans in Alabama.

The luncheon was sponsored by Structured Technology LLC. The Chamber also appreciates Leeds First Baptist Church for hosting the luncheon and Leeds First Methodist Ladies for volunteering to serve the meal.

Shown in the group photo on the front row are (l. to r.): Doug Young, Structured Technology; Telra Rocker, Alabama Power Co.; BG Jeffrey L. Newton (Ret); Stephen Karr, Leeds Arts Council; Amy Lee, Director, Leeds Area Chamber; Tiffiany Ward, Millennial Bank. On the back row (l. to r.): Chris Oldenburg, ServPro of Birmingham; Debbie Watkins, Bob Watkins Realty; Rep. Susan DuBose; Steven Weems, First Baptist Church Leeds; and Casey Parsons, Guild Mortgage.