Mineola Chamber of Commerce members recently elected six members to the board of directors, joining three continuing directors in working to support the chamber mission of helping to enable commerce and facilitate a thriving business environment for members and the community.

The board also has hired Jessica Romine of Lindale as chamber manager.

One of the first tasks for the new board and membership is planning the chamber’s annual awards banquet April 21 at the Mineola Civic Center. The theme will be “Diamonds in the Pines.”

The banquet, which was canceled the past two years due to COVID-19 health and safety protocols, shines a community spotlight on the many businesses and organizations that make Mineola and Wood County special and vibrant.  

“Like the businesses we support, many of the chamber’s activities were regrettably reduced during the two years of COVID precautions,” said Mary Boone, chamber president. “Our new board of directors is committed to returning and growing our signature community events, as well as our business growth and networking opportunities.”

Board members recently participated in an orientation to understand and support the chamber’s mission and vision, learn from its past successes and shortcomings, find ways to reignite members’ benefits and explore new opportunities for successful community events and activities.

New board members

Mariola Smith – has been a Wood County resident since 1971 and owns Dream Vacations – Mariola Smith & Associates in Mineola. She is also a licensed insurance agent and works for Hefner Group Insurance.  

Kim Raymond – has a strong background in the fashion industry and most recently she and her husband co-founded, developed and marketed many toys. They sold their company and have been consulting with other inventors to help source and market their designs.

Nancy Murphy – was born and raised in Mineola, and her love for the area brought her back home to become manager of the Mineola Civic Center, where she oversees daily operations. She also serves as vice chair of the Marketing and Tourism Advisory Board for Mineola.

Alan Mendez - has owned and operated three successful business, in electronics, computer repair, web design and app development. He hosts his own music radio show, is an actor and musician and is assistant manager of The Historic Select Theater.

Kelcie McGilvray – spent much of her childhood in Mineola and is a branding and marketing strategist and owner of Vivant Ideas. Her business is especially attuned to providing affordable marketing among small businesses.

Daren Beaudo – is a retired corporate communicator and owner of Palantir Communications, specializing in business and creative writing, crisis communications and media/public relations.

Returning board members include Mary Boone of Boone Ranch Beef, Holly Herring of CowBurners BBQ and Tap Room and Jerry Richardson of the First National Bank of East Texas.

Romine possesses business experience, most recently in the insurance industry, along with great enthusiasm and people skills.

In tandem with the board, she will help lead the drive to make Mineola a destination place while promoting economic growth within the community through leadership, education and business advocacy.

To join the Mineola Chamber of Commerce or learn more about the organization visit the Chamber office Tuesday through Saturday at 101 E. Broad Street, call 903-569-2087 or visit www.mineolachamber.org.