Mineola chamber saw events rebound in 2022

By Phil Major
publisher@wood.cm
Posted 2/2/23

Community events made a big comeback in 2022, which the Mineola Chamber of Commerce annual report reflected.

Chamber President Mary Boone briefed the membership on the year’s activities…

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Mineola chamber saw events rebound in 2022

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Community events made a big comeback in 2022, which the Mineola Chamber of Commerce annual report reflected.

Chamber President Mary Boone briefed the membership on the year’s activities, focusing on the second half of the year, at the annual meeting last Thursday evening.

Recognitions were also awarded, with Silvia Reyes receiving the volunteer of the year award, Fusion in the Woods (Chef Tyler Brown) was named new member of the year, and Christus Mary Frances Hospital was selected as supporter of the year.

Boone recounted Reyes’ efforts in securing entertainment for the May Fiesta, as well as performing with the folklorico dancers.

Brown, who began his business in the area in 2022 and catered Thursday’s event, has been a steady presence at numerous community and private events.

And Christus, represented by Janie Johnson, has always stepped up to support community activities, especially providing its large tent during events.

Boone also announced that Tristan Mosher and Daniel Vasquez, who are serving unexpired terms, will remain on the board for full terms, while Brent Strehlow with Grandma Cleda’s will join the board.

Remaining directors are Kelsie McGilvray, Kim Raymond, Daren Beaudo, Mariola Smith, Alan Mendez and Elida Boyer. McGilvray has served as president-elect.

Boone also had praise for the work of chamber office manager Danielle Vance.

She noted that chamber communication has increased, with regular newsletters produced by Vance.

The chamber also added 67 new members during the year.

Turning to events, Boone noted there was a great turnout for the 2022 banquet.

The 2023 banquet will go along with the city’s sesquicentennial theme with “1873 origin story,” a play on the popular TV series Yellowstone prequel. It is scheduled March 30 at the civic center.

May Fiesta drew more than 5,000 visitors to the city.

Iron Horse Heritage Festival vendors were happy with the turnout. The new Caring and Sharing car show was a successful addition, as was the street dance.

The Christmas parade was “fantastic,” Boone said, aided by the Christus helicopter making passes over the event.

Boone did have a bit of bad news to share. A sewer backup in the basement of the chamber office in November cost more than $11,000 to clean up, which was followed by a second back up. Numerous items stored in the basement were also damaged.