Popwell, Bumpers take Chamber leadership roles

Vicki Popwell became president of the Andalusia Area Chamber of Commerce this week.

She replaces her son-in-law, Daniel Wells, who resigned after taking on a new role at CDG Engineering. Wells said the new job requires more travel, limiting the time he could spend working on Chamber initiatives.

On Thursday, the Chamber board accepted his resignation and elected Popwell, who was vice president, as the new president. Will Bumpers moved into the vice president’s role.

“I’m very honored and grateful to become the president of the Andalusia Area Chamber of Commerce,” Popwell said. “It’s an exciting time for Andalusia and our surrounding area for growth and the quality of life. The Andalusia Area Chamber has had tremendous growth for the past few years and continues to expand in many areas.

“I really enjoy all the members serving on the current board as they show a vast array of talents and bring many ideas to the table. Working with Chrissie Duffy and Maggie Jones is incredible. Their energy level is outstanding and their work ethics and rapport with Chamber members is to be honored.

“I love the level of attention the Chamber provides to members and I strongly encourage every business person, civic organization, clubs, churches and retirees to join the Chamber as a member. We have many events to participate in including Candyland, July Jamz, Annual GolfTournament, Membership Cookout, Annual Banquet just to name a few.

“The chamber hosts Business Breakfasts and several information seminars,” she said. “We honor student of the year with a scholarship and teachers of the year, too. We work with a monthly newsletter where members can promote their business events for free that goes out in The Andalusia Star-News.

“I intentionally choose to living in Andalusia, one of the best small towns in Alabama,” Popwell said. “All of my extended family live here too and we enjoy doing life together. Our portrait business is located on the city square where we have had a business for the past 30 years. I’ve seen the growth through the years and I see much more going on!’ Again, I encourage everyone to become a member and enjoy all the benefits our Chamber can provide.”

Bumpers works with Southeast Alabama Gas.