Mineola Main Street has announced the winners of its annual decorating contests, highlighting strong community participation and widespread patriotic displays across homes and local businesses.
In the Kiwanis Best Decorated Residence Contest, first place went to a home on County Road 2436 at Lake Brenda. The residence stood out among 11 entries and earned a five-year flag subscription service donated by the Kiwanis Club. Runner-up honors went to the home at 1417 Country Club Drive, residence of Diane and Dean Stone.
Kiwanis President Misty Hooks and Sam Curry presented the awards. Mineola Main Street Manager Doris Newman said that in addition to official entries, many other homes and yards across the community also displayed festive decorations. Judges even returned in the evening to view residences featuring lighting displays.
The Stars, Stripes and Storefronts decorating contest recognized local businesses and organizations for their holiday displays. First place was awarded to Cheryl’s Lake Country Florist, which received a gift basket featuring items donated by area businesses and organizations, including gift cards from Whataburger and Jalisco’s Mexican Grill Restaurant, an American flag windsock from Lost Creek, the Texas Historical Commission’s *A Culinary Journey Through Texas History* cookbook, and additional Main Street items.
The Wood County Marine Corps League on South Johnson Street was named runner-up. Both winners received framed plaques presented by Mineola Main Street Board Chairman Jerry Gaskill, Jr. and board members. The contest included 13 entries, with participation from businesses both downtown and outside the district, including Lone Star Learning Academy and Mineola Eye Care Clinic.
Newman expressed appreciation to all participating businesses as well as donors who contributed items for the winners’ prizes, emphasizing the importance of community support in making the event possible.
As part of the judging process, County Judge Kevin White, Mineola Athletic Director Cody Moore, and Mineola League of the Arts President Deb Clarkson reviewed decorated storefront windows during daytime visits last week. Newman thanked them for volunteering their time to assist with the contest.
Newman said the event reflected strong community pride and a shared celebration of the holiday season throughout Mineola.