Chamber prepares annual banquet

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UT Health Quitman has been named the title sponsor for the 2023 Mineola Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet Thursday, March 30 at the Mineola Civic Center.

The theme is “1873 - A Mineola Origin Story,” based on the sesquicentennial year of founding of the city of Mineola and the popular television series, “Yellowstone,” and its prequel, “1883.”

“This banquet will share the spirit of the birth of our great town, recognize individuals and businesses in the community, and raise money to continue the chamber’s efforts on behalf of its business members,” said Kelsie McGilvray, chamber president. “We want to thank all of our members and sponsors for their support for what will be a fun and memorable event.”

Besides one of the chamber’s top fundraisers and community gatherings, the banquet shines a community spotlight on the many businesses and organizations that make Mineola and the broader Wood County community special and vibrant. Awards to be given by community organizations will include the following:

B.R Short Community Spirit Award – presented by the Mineola Chamber of Commerce

FCA Students of the Year – presented by Ministerial Alliance

Humanitarian of the Year – presented by the Pilot Club of Mineola

Teacher of the Year – presented by the Kiwanis Club of Mineola

Woman of the Year – presented by the Mineola Lions Club

Man of the Year – presented by the Rotary Club of Mineola

Lou Mallory Historic Preservation Award – presented by Landmark Commission

Entrepreneur of the Year - presented by the Mineola Chamber of Commerce

Doors open at 5:45 p.m. and guests will be greeted by two Texas longhorns from Ross Ranch Horns on the civic center lawn. Entertainment will include a musical duo featuring Chris Oliver and Gary Freeman, a one-act play from Lake Country Playhouse, and a trick roping performance from Trevor Dreher, world champion trick roper. Guests will enjoy placing bids at the silent auction, drawing from a wine pull, playing heads or tails, entering to win raffle items, and a 50/50 chance fundraiser. A themed photo booth will be available courtesy of Cheryl’s Lake Country Florist, and decorations are courtesy of Hidden Pines Venue. Dinner is provided by Chef Tyler and Fusion in the Woods.

Sponsors for the 2023 banquet are “The Dutton” - title sponsor UT Health - Quitman; “The 6666” - heads or tails sponsors - Don Roberts Title and Tarry Title; “King Ranch” - Christus Trinity Mother Frances Clinic - Mineola and Mineola Dairy Queen; “Waggoner” – Whataburger.

If interested in a remaining sponsorship for the event or to donate items for silent auction or raffle, contact the chamber to secure the spot and be included in marketing materials.

Tables for eight are available for $400, individual tickets are $50 each. The event is BYOB – one bottle of wine or a six pack of beer per person allowed. No liquor please.