Message from the Executive Director

Dear chamber members and friends, as the Executive Director of the Marion County Chamber of Commerce, I am excited to share with you the vision and goals that drive our efforts to support and grow businesses throughout historic downtown Jefferson and Marion County, Texas. Our chamber is proud to be the central hub for business resources in our area—the “411” for all things related to business, commerce, and community. If there’s something we don’t know, we will do our best to find the answers for you. Our mission is clear: we aim to represent every business in our county and help them not only survive but thrive. With your support, we can accomplish this and more.

The past year has been one of learning, strategizing, and laying the foundation for even greater success in the years ahead. We’ve been working diligently to maximize our resources and refine our strategies to make the chamber as effective as possible. This wouldn’t be possible without the active participation of our members, board members, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters. Each of you plays a crucial role in our collective success, and we truly appreciate all that you do.

Looking ahead to 2026, we have set ambitious goals to further strengthen our chamber and its impact on the community. These include:

  • Enhancing access to knowledge and resources for our business members

  • Building a better information network for all things related to Jefferson and Marion County

  • Achieving financial health and stability with the active involvement of the entire business community

Currently, Marion County is home to 173 businesses, and the chamber proudly represents 92 of them, or 53% of the total. With 109 members total, including 17 from surrounding counties, we’ve made great strides—but there’s so much more potential. This is where you come in. We invite you to help us increase this number and amplify our collective impact. Your participation and input are vital to the success of our chamber and the growth of our local economy. Together, we can create a brighter future for our businesses and our community.

If you are not yet a member, we encourage you to join us and contribute your unique perspective. By working together, we can complete the picture of success for Marion County. Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to an exciting year ahead, and we are grateful to have you as part of this vibrant and thriving business community.

Warm regards,

Ellen Smith

Executive Director,
Marion County Chamber of Commerce

Meet the team

  • Seth Buckner

    Pastor Seth Buckner

    PRESIDENT

    Pastor Seth Buckner and his wife Elizabeth have been married since 2002 and have 6 beautiful children: Joshua, Jonathan, Hannah, Grace, Lily, & Phillip. Pastor Seth was raised in Kentucky, and is an avid sports fan. He graduated from Indiana Baptist College in 2001 with a ministry degree. He loves fishing and hunting and spending time with his family. He is on the Board of Directors at the Marion County Chamber of Commerce and also a member of the Jefferson Lions Club. The Buckners love East Texas and consider it home.

  • Ken Juniper

    VICE PRESIDENT

    Ken and his wife, Theresa opened The Lazy Draft Western Store after Ken retired from a career in Law Enforcement in 2020. Ken and Theresa have one son, Joshua, who owns Caddo Cove Gift Shop. Ken graduated from Sacramento State University in 2001 where he studied Business Administration and Communication Studies. He enjoys volunteering in the community and has held many roles, including serving on the boards of directors for a horse rescue organization and a historical museum.

  • Jim Hale

    TREASURER

    Jim Kale is the administrator for Magnolia Place Wellness. Jim has an extensive background in marketing and finance. He recently was involved with the Kilgore Chamber and Henderson Chamber where he volunteered and promoted fundraising, membership and various outreach ministries. Jim is currently the President of the Children’s Advocacy Board for Rusk and Panola County. Jim received his MBA from LeTourneau University and received his License for Nursing Home Administrator in 2019 Jim and his family reside in Longview.

  • Mike Blackwell

    BOARD MEMBER

    Marine Corps veteran, data expert, and lifelong learner. From piloting helicopters to executive roles at USAA, Southwest Airlines and Northwestern Mutual, he brings leadership and heart. Now in East Texas with his wife of 27 years, he enjoys family, travel, fishing and woodworking.

  • Nicole Blakely 

    BOARD MEMBER

    Originally from Plano where she managed and co-owned a photography studio, Nicole is a wife; mother of five daughters; and caretaker of her special needs sis-in-law. Honeymooned in Jefferson and often dreamed of retiring to Jefferson to open a bed and breakfast. During one of many trips, their youngest daughter fell in love with Jefferson and questioned ‘why wait’ to make Jefferson their home. They seized the moment and embraced the life they’d always envisioned. Nicole and her husband, Tommy, own and operate Benefield House Bed & Breakfast.

  • Christy Burleson 

    BOARD MEMBER

    Christy Burleson, owner of Burleson Insurance, is passionate about serving families and businesses in Jefferson. A lifelong East Texan, wife, mom, grandmother, and dog lover, she enjoys boating, traveling, and community involvement. Christy is honored to serve on the Chamber board to support local growth and connection.

  • Angie Hudson

    BOARD MEMBER

    Businesswoman, owner/operator at Art on the Bayou and Made in the Shade, Jefferson, Texas. Active in the community, involved in bringing many activities to Jefferson for locals and tourists alike.

  • Margaret McMillin 

    BOARD MEMBER

    Born and raised in Oklahoma, moved to Lake O’ the Pines in 2005 from Louisiana. Spent time in Houston taking care of clients all over the world; married and moved to Hammond, Louisiana. Two sons. Founded and ran a cleaning business. In 2005, moved to Jefferson and worked for Walmart, as manager of claims. Retired in 2011. Traveled. Part-time work at Port Jefferson Outpost turned into full-time management in 2016 where she still can be found most days. Attends Mims Chapel Methodist. UMW president for two years; Sunday School teacher; choir member.

  • Kristi Bullock

    BOARD MEMBER

    Kristi Bullock is the owner and operator of The Hive in Jefferson, Texas. She has a deep passion for excellent coffee, delicious food, and serving the people in our community. When you can’t find her at the coffee bar, Kristi can be found with a good book and her dog, Mishka.

  • Maggie Hellie

    ADMINISTRATOR

    Maggie Hellie is a local artist and owner of Maggie Hellie Arts. Along with a strong creative background, She brings a genuine love for Jefferson, a commitment to excellence, and pride in a job well done. Maggie hopes to use her creativity and dedication to support and strengthen Jefferson’s chamber of commerce.