GROVES — Maggie Wilson looked over a long list of past presidents of the Groves Chamber of Commerce and Tourist Center dating back to 1950 before her eyes scanned the crowd seated before her.

“I am truly honored to step into the leadership of the past presidents,” Wilson, the 2017 chamber president, said as she officially moved into her new role during the chamber’s annual breakfast and meeting at Magnolia Manor on Tuesday. “I hope I’m able to do as good a job as they successfully accomplished. As incoming president I will do my best to make Groves Chamber of Commerce proud.”

Outgoing president, Tonya Petix, who served two terms at the helm, said the chamber accomplished a lot during the years, for adding numerous new members to the annual Port Neches-Groves Honors Luncheon to small businessperson of the year recognition and more.

There was also a successful Groves Pecan Festival to note, she said with a nod to Gene Venable who chaired the event.

“There were trials and tribulations but I believe it will only get bigger and better,” Petix said.

Inclement weather caused for the cancellation of the city’s lighted Christmas parade and the Old Fashioned Christmas event but there were successful end of the year events such as the Mid County Chambers Christmas Mixer.

“Finally, I want to add that we (chamber) do so much more than this,” she said of the events held throughout the year. “We’re not just a board, were a family, an extended family.”

Wilson and fellow chamber members to paid homage to Petix for her dedication with the presentation of a plaque.

Also during the event, Kenny Blanda, executive director of Magnolia Manor, which has hosted the event for many years, was presented with the Carl Beaumont Memorial Award in recognition of commitment, support, involvement and unselfish dedication to community.

Reporter: Mary Meaux, 409-721-2429

Twitter: @MaryMeauxPANews