AMBASSADORS
Ambassadors for a Chamber of Commerce are dedicated volunteers who serve as key representatives and liaisons between the Chamber and the local business community. They help welcome new members, foster engagement, and promote Chamber events and initiatives. Ambassadors typically assist with member retention, attend ribbon-cutting ceremonies, networking events, and serve as a resource for members, ensuring they get the most out of their Chamber membership. By building strong relationships and representing the Chamber, Ambassadors play a vital role in strengthening the Chamber’s presence and supporting its business growth and community development mission.
Mission Statement
The Affton-Lemay Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors promote member commitment through raising awareness of Chamber activities and benefits, promoting member engagement in various activities, and serving as a connection between the chamber and its members.
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The Ambassador Committee is excited to introduce Morning Mingle, a new monthly meetup designed to help members connect, engage, and grow. Enjoy an informal setting where you can chat with Ambassadors and Chamber staff, get your questions answered, and discover how to maximize your Chamber membership and involvement.
Find more details on our Networking Events page |
Photos courtesy of Cindy's Photo
Chair: Bobby Dean
MBhealth Insurance Agency |
Anne Gerding
Safeguard |
Amira Jahic
Infinity Care Advisors |
Josh Morris
Regions Bank |
Kathie Muller
Unique Footprints Co. |
Co-Chair: Jack Williams
Jack C. Williams Agency |
April 2026
Chamber Ambassador Bobby Dean, Health Insurance Consultant with MBhealth Insurance Agency, recently visited Nottelmann Music, a longtime staple of the South County community since 1953. At their Lemay Ferry Road location, Bobby connected with the team to learn more about the store’s history, values, and ongoing commitment to music education.
Now celebrating more than 70 years in business, Nottelmann Music is one of the last family-owned school band rental companies in the St. Louis area, proudly operated by its third generation. During the visit, Bobby spoke with Owner Dennis Gerfen and Michael Gerfen about what has sustained the business for decades.
For Dennis, the answer is simple: customer service. “Anybody can sit there and toot their own horn saying they can do something,” he shared, “but we actually get out there and do it.” That hands-on approach has helped Nottelmann Music navigate industry changes, including competition from out-of-town dealers and online retailers.
Unlike many competitors, Nottelmann Music remains actively involved at the school level. “We don’t just sell horns to your school,” Dennis explained. “We service your schools.” Today, they continue to support local band programs in a way few others do.
That dedication to music education is at the heart of their mission. When asked about its importance, Dennis said, “Very important,” while Michael added, “It’s everything.”
Michael also emphasized the value of community support for local businesses. While online shopping may be convenient, he noted that Nottelmann Music offers something different—real people, real service, and a place customers can rely on when they need help. That personal connection continues to set them apart.
Looking ahead, Dennis and Michael acknowledged the challenges small businesses face as costs rise, but they remain optimistic. As Michael shared, as long as band programs exist, there will be a need for businesses like Nottelmann Music.
What keeps them motivated is deeply personal. For Dennis, it’s the pride of carrying on a third-generation family business. For Michael, it’s about continuing something meaningful and preserving a legacy. Their approach has always been to stay focused on service rather than recognition, keeping the business at a size that allows them to truly care for their customers.
As someone who used Nottelmann Music growing up, Bobby can personally attest to the care and reliability they provide. For generations, Nottelmann Music has been more than a store—it’s been a trusted partner in education, creativity, and community.
For more information about rentals, repairs, or music services, visit www.nottelmannmusic.com or stop by 1590 Lemay Ferry Road to experience the personal touch that has made Nottelmann Music a community fixture for more than seven decades.
Chamber Ambassador Bobby Dean, Health Insurance Consultant with MBhealth Insurance Agency, recently visited Nottelmann Music, a longtime staple of the South County community since 1953. At their Lemay Ferry Road location, Bobby connected with the team to learn more about the store’s history, values, and ongoing commitment to music education.
Now celebrating more than 70 years in business, Nottelmann Music is one of the last family-owned school band rental companies in the St. Louis area, proudly operated by its third generation. During the visit, Bobby spoke with Owner Dennis Gerfen and Michael Gerfen about what has sustained the business for decades.
For Dennis, the answer is simple: customer service. “Anybody can sit there and toot their own horn saying they can do something,” he shared, “but we actually get out there and do it.” That hands-on approach has helped Nottelmann Music navigate industry changes, including competition from out-of-town dealers and online retailers.
Unlike many competitors, Nottelmann Music remains actively involved at the school level. “We don’t just sell horns to your school,” Dennis explained. “We service your schools.” Today, they continue to support local band programs in a way few others do.
That dedication to music education is at the heart of their mission. When asked about its importance, Dennis said, “Very important,” while Michael added, “It’s everything.”
Michael also emphasized the value of community support for local businesses. While online shopping may be convenient, he noted that Nottelmann Music offers something different—real people, real service, and a place customers can rely on when they need help. That personal connection continues to set them apart.
Looking ahead, Dennis and Michael acknowledged the challenges small businesses face as costs rise, but they remain optimistic. As Michael shared, as long as band programs exist, there will be a need for businesses like Nottelmann Music.
What keeps them motivated is deeply personal. For Dennis, it’s the pride of carrying on a third-generation family business. For Michael, it’s about continuing something meaningful and preserving a legacy. Their approach has always been to stay focused on service rather than recognition, keeping the business at a size that allows them to truly care for their customers.
As someone who used Nottelmann Music growing up, Bobby can personally attest to the care and reliability they provide. For generations, Nottelmann Music has been more than a store—it’s been a trusted partner in education, creativity, and community.
For more information about rentals, repairs, or music services, visit www.nottelmannmusic.com or stop by 1590 Lemay Ferry Road to experience the personal touch that has made Nottelmann Music a community fixture for more than seven decades.
March 2026
Take a look at this spotlight from our Ambassadors’ Corner, where we share the latest updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes moments from our Chamber Ambassadors as they connect with members and support our community.
By Ambassador Kathie Muller, Unique Footprints Co LLC-Photography.
Spirit One Automotive is a locally owned auto repair shop proudly serving the Affton area, led by owner David Eschbach, and it’s a business I truly admire for both its professionalism and its heart for the community.
Spirit One Automotive provides honest, high-quality automotive repair and maintenance. Whether your vehicle needs simple or complex repairs, the experienced auto repair specialists at Spirit One Automotive are always there to help and walk you through it. What truly sets them apart is their belief that owning a business creates an opportunity to do more than just provide a service.
As David shared, “Owning a business provides a unique opportunity to contribute directly to the community. Do more with your business. Use it to directly help the people around you.” That philosophy is the foundation of Spirit One’s commitment to giving back on a monthly basis, with a strong focus on supporting smaller, often overlooked organizations that serve the Affton and Lemay areas.
Over the holidays, Spirit One Automotive jumped into mission mode by supporting the Affton Christian Food Pantry during a particularly uncertain time. They hosted a donation drive offering free oil changes in exchange for pantry donations, helping meet a critical need while rallying the Affton and Lemay community to show up together. One cause especially close to David’s heart is funding school lunches, rooted in his belief that “no child should worry about accessing a healthy meal due to financial restrictions.” He adds, “When developing champion athletes, the first objective is always providing a healthy dietary program—there is no difference when it comes to developing champions in the classroom.”
Spirit One Automotive views the community as more than a location—it’s an environment that shapes growth, health, and pride. Their culture extends far beyond auto repair, and they lead by example, hoping their actions inspire others to do the same. As David puts it, “Lead with positive actions, and hope it’s contagious.” Supporting Spirit One Automotive means supporting a business that consistently shows up for the Affton/Lemay area and proves that when local businesses invest locally, everyone benefits.
Take a look at this spotlight from our Ambassadors’ Corner, where we share the latest updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes moments from our Chamber Ambassadors as they connect with members and support our community.
By Ambassador Kathie Muller, Unique Footprints Co LLC-Photography.
Spirit One Automotive is a locally owned auto repair shop proudly serving the Affton area, led by owner David Eschbach, and it’s a business I truly admire for both its professionalism and its heart for the community.
Spirit One Automotive provides honest, high-quality automotive repair and maintenance. Whether your vehicle needs simple or complex repairs, the experienced auto repair specialists at Spirit One Automotive are always there to help and walk you through it. What truly sets them apart is their belief that owning a business creates an opportunity to do more than just provide a service.
As David shared, “Owning a business provides a unique opportunity to contribute directly to the community. Do more with your business. Use it to directly help the people around you.” That philosophy is the foundation of Spirit One’s commitment to giving back on a monthly basis, with a strong focus on supporting smaller, often overlooked organizations that serve the Affton and Lemay areas.
Over the holidays, Spirit One Automotive jumped into mission mode by supporting the Affton Christian Food Pantry during a particularly uncertain time. They hosted a donation drive offering free oil changes in exchange for pantry donations, helping meet a critical need while rallying the Affton and Lemay community to show up together. One cause especially close to David’s heart is funding school lunches, rooted in his belief that “no child should worry about accessing a healthy meal due to financial restrictions.” He adds, “When developing champion athletes, the first objective is always providing a healthy dietary program—there is no difference when it comes to developing champions in the classroom.”
Spirit One Automotive views the community as more than a location—it’s an environment that shapes growth, health, and pride. Their culture extends far beyond auto repair, and they lead by example, hoping their actions inspire others to do the same. As David puts it, “Lead with positive actions, and hope it’s contagious.” Supporting Spirit One Automotive means supporting a business that consistently shows up for the Affton/Lemay area and proves that when local businesses invest locally, everyone benefits.
January / February 2025
Recently, an employee of Jack C. Williams Agency shared their experience after bringing two dogs to UrgentVet Lemay—one limping, the other struggling with a skin issue. From the moment they arrived, the difference was clear. “The facility was spotless, and the staff greeted us with warmth and professionalism,” they recalled.
The UrgentVet team responded quickly, providing thorough physical exams and prescribing necessary medications. For the dog with the limp, the veterinarian administered a pain-relieving injection on the spot, which provided immediate comfort. The other dog, dealing with a skin issue, received a soothing topical treatment and a prescription to address the underlying cause. Both dogs benefited from effective pain management and attentive care throughout their visit.
The client was especially impressed by the kindness shown to their pets and the veterinarian’s genuine compassion. “They treated my pups with such care, and the doctor’s empathy was evident throughout our visit,” they shared.
What truly set UrgentVet apart was their commitment to follow-up care. In the days after the appointment, staff reached out several times to check on the dogs’ progress—a gesture that spoke volumes about their dedication. “It’s clear they genuinely care about every pet that comes through their doors,” the owner noted.
For many pet owners, urgent health concerns seem to arise when regular veterinary offices are closed or unavailable. UrgentVet bridges that gap, offering knowledgeable, compassionate care exactly when it’s needed most. “I would absolutely recommend Urgent Vet to anyone,” the client said. “They’re not only skilled and kind, but also incredibly convenient.”
Their advice to fellow pet owners? “Go to UrgentVet!” UrgentVet’s unwavering commitment to accessible, high-quality care is making a real difference for pets—and their people—throughout our community.
Recently, an employee of Jack C. Williams Agency shared their experience after bringing two dogs to UrgentVet Lemay—one limping, the other struggling with a skin issue. From the moment they arrived, the difference was clear. “The facility was spotless, and the staff greeted us with warmth and professionalism,” they recalled.
The UrgentVet team responded quickly, providing thorough physical exams and prescribing necessary medications. For the dog with the limp, the veterinarian administered a pain-relieving injection on the spot, which provided immediate comfort. The other dog, dealing with a skin issue, received a soothing topical treatment and a prescription to address the underlying cause. Both dogs benefited from effective pain management and attentive care throughout their visit.
The client was especially impressed by the kindness shown to their pets and the veterinarian’s genuine compassion. “They treated my pups with such care, and the doctor’s empathy was evident throughout our visit,” they shared.
What truly set UrgentVet apart was their commitment to follow-up care. In the days after the appointment, staff reached out several times to check on the dogs’ progress—a gesture that spoke volumes about their dedication. “It’s clear they genuinely care about every pet that comes through their doors,” the owner noted.
For many pet owners, urgent health concerns seem to arise when regular veterinary offices are closed or unavailable. UrgentVet bridges that gap, offering knowledgeable, compassionate care exactly when it’s needed most. “I would absolutely recommend Urgent Vet to anyone,” the client said. “They’re not only skilled and kind, but also incredibly convenient.”
Their advice to fellow pet owners? “Go to UrgentVet!” UrgentVet’s unwavering commitment to accessible, high-quality care is making a real difference for pets—and their people—throughout our community.
December 2025
Chamber Ambassador Josh Morris of Regions Bank recently joined 12 fellow local leaders in volunteering at Feed My People, a nonprofit organization serving families across the St. Louis region. During his time onsite, Morris sat down with Executive Director Stephanie Berberich to discuss the organization’s current priorities, challenges, and hopes for the future.
Berberich shared that the most urgent needs right now center on Feed My People’s Transformation Program, which supports families with utility assistance, rental help, and sleeping bags for unhoused clients. As demand grows, the organization also faces ongoing shortages of essential personal care items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, and feminine hygiene products.
Currently, Feed My People serves approximately 1,700 individuals each month across its two locations. Berberich noted a significant increase in first-time visitors, starting early in the summer and rising sharply again in September—a trend that reflects the growing financial pressures many local families are experiencing.
To keep up with demand, volunteers are needed in nearly every area of operation. Both sites rely heavily on community members to assist in the thrift store, sort food donations, clean facilities, and provide skilled trade expertise when available.
While food donations remain vital, Berberich emphasized that monetary contributions offer key advantages, allowing the organization to make bulk purchases and provide clients with gift cards, fuel cards, and bus passes. Partnerships with retailers like Walmart also ensure families can access food, household essentials, and pharmacy items all in one place. “It’s great when clients don’t have to decide if they are going to afford their medicine or food to eat,” Berberich said.
Looking ahead, Berberich’s ultimate goal is to help families break generational cycles of poverty, empowering individuals to secure employment and use their skills and education to build stability. Her long-term vision is grounded in hope:
“It would be great if we were out of business because the community no longer has a need.”
As Feed My People continues to provide critical support across the region, volunteers, donors, and partners remain essential to meeting the growing needs of the community. Please visit www.feed-my-people.org to learn more or find out how you can get involved.
Chamber Ambassador Josh Morris of Regions Bank recently joined 12 fellow local leaders in volunteering at Feed My People, a nonprofit organization serving families across the St. Louis region. During his time onsite, Morris sat down with Executive Director Stephanie Berberich to discuss the organization’s current priorities, challenges, and hopes for the future.
Berberich shared that the most urgent needs right now center on Feed My People’s Transformation Program, which supports families with utility assistance, rental help, and sleeping bags for unhoused clients. As demand grows, the organization also faces ongoing shortages of essential personal care items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, and feminine hygiene products.
Currently, Feed My People serves approximately 1,700 individuals each month across its two locations. Berberich noted a significant increase in first-time visitors, starting early in the summer and rising sharply again in September—a trend that reflects the growing financial pressures many local families are experiencing.
To keep up with demand, volunteers are needed in nearly every area of operation. Both sites rely heavily on community members to assist in the thrift store, sort food donations, clean facilities, and provide skilled trade expertise when available.
While food donations remain vital, Berberich emphasized that monetary contributions offer key advantages, allowing the organization to make bulk purchases and provide clients with gift cards, fuel cards, and bus passes. Partnerships with retailers like Walmart also ensure families can access food, household essentials, and pharmacy items all in one place. “It’s great when clients don’t have to decide if they are going to afford their medicine or food to eat,” Berberich said.
Looking ahead, Berberich’s ultimate goal is to help families break generational cycles of poverty, empowering individuals to secure employment and use their skills and education to build stability. Her long-term vision is grounded in hope:
“It would be great if we were out of business because the community no longer has a need.”
As Feed My People continues to provide critical support across the region, volunteers, donors, and partners remain essential to meeting the growing needs of the community. Please visit www.feed-my-people.org to learn more or find out how you can get involved.