Finalists for the 2022 Texas Downtown President’s Awards Program were recently announced in Austin. For over 30 years the awards program, sponsored by Texas Downtown, has recognized outstanding projects, places and people of downtowns across the state.

Grandma Cleda’s Sweet Shop, entered by Mineola Main Street, is one of three finalists in the Best Downtown Business in cities under 50,000. As part of its criteria for this category, TDA was looking for destination businesses that positively promote the downtown for locals and tourists alike, actively participate in revitalization efforts and supports downtown promotional events.

Texas Downtown was established in 1985 and its mission is to provide members with resources, advocacy, education and connections to develop vibrant districts.  The organization is an independent, statewide nonprofit that represents cities and towns of all sizes, economic development corporations, chambers of commerce, local associations, small businesses and individuals.

City Manager Mercy Rushing said, “The City of Mineola is just proud to be part of the finalists in the Texas Downtown President’s Awards, and of course we’re very proud of Grandma Cleda’s and the job they have done with that historic building. We’re always honored to be included in finalists in best of anything in Texas Main Street cities.”

There were 129 entries submitted in 12 categories from communities across the state. Design and achievement categories were judged by separate panels. The Best Downtown Business is under the Achievement category. Achievement judges were Erika Boyd, Texas Travel Alliance; Julie Glover, downtown consultant; Danny Holeva, Arts Council of Midland; Kris Larson, Central Houston; and Jordan Maddox, Halff Associates.

The other finalists in the Best Downtown Business Under 50K category are Store House Market & Eatery in Bastrop and Burnt Bean Company in Seguin.

Winners will be announced on Nov. 2 at the President’s Awards Gala, held in conjunction with the 2022 Texas Downtown Conference scheduled for Nov. 1-4 in San Marcos.