By Ruth Ann Ruiz
The Post Newspaper Features Editor
Black was the primary color of the evening; the tables and chairs were dressed in black, as were many of the attendees. Complementing the black were the shimmer and glitter of a glitzy night, reflected in the women’s lovely gowns and accessories.
Ushering in the 57th annual Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce (TCLMCC) gala were the smooth musical sounds of Danny Ray and the Atlantic Street. Their music was not only smooth — they also led the attendees with lively dance music once the evening’s ceremonies were completed.
Adorning the Doyle Convention Center were six large black-and-white photos framed with gilded gold leaf wood frames. The historic photos highlighted significant landmarks and businesses from both La Marque and Texas City.
Standing near the photo of the Texas City Dike, taken some time in the 1950s, were Michelle Puckett along with her husband and friends. Puckett fondly recalled her childhood growing up in Texas City.
“I loved the dike as a child; it was full of businesses. The best hamburgers were sold at the end of the dike,” said Puckett. “I still love the dike, and I love stargazing from the levee and fishing with my husband.”
The evening had a strong sense of community, with people greeting one another, enjoying each other’s company, and catching up throughout the night.
Tim Culp, president of TCLMCC, hosted the evening with enthusiasm and humor, sharing in the sense of community and encouraging guests to engage in local community building.
“Community isn’t built by people who play it safe, but by people who show up and take risks,” said Culp.
Mandie McMillan Crowder, the incoming chairwoman of the chamber, spoke to the guests, and when she shared her childhood memories, the crowd fell silent, listening intently as she described the familiar places of which she spoke.
McMillan Crowder shared more than her childhood years, she also shared her vision for the chamber.
“The chamber’s role this year is going to be to connect with people and market businesses,” said McMillan Crowder.
She is committed to ensuring member businesses are promoted through the chamber. Her vision of leadership has also brought a new chamber website and a chamber cell phone app.
As part of the annual meeting, new officers and board members were sworn in and awards were presented to individuals and companies.
The crowd showed their pleasure with applause and cheers at the announcement of John Michael Armijo and his wife Cindy Armijo as recipients of the Jim Hayley Community Service Award.
The Armijos are the founders of Chat N Chew, a faith-based outreach ministry serving the homeless and others in need. Twice a month, Chat N Chew provides hot meals, conversations, a Bible message, and other items such as clothing and hot showers. The couple were highlighted in a a Post Newspaper feature article during the early stages of Chat N Chew.
The annual gala was held on Friday evening. Both Mayor Bell of La Marque and Mayor Dedrick of Texas City were in attendance, sporting smiles and handshakes for the many community members who had come out to celebrate both community and commerce.
