Winnie Area Chamber of Commerce Best for 2025

By Gloria Way

  Over 150 people gathered at the Winnie Stowell Community Building last Saturday night to attend the Winnie Area Chamber of Commerce (WACC) Dueling Pianos and Awards Banquet.

  The attendees feasted on a delicious fried fish meal catered by Yellow Rose Meat Market, and everyone enjoyed posing with friends for pictures at the picture booth provided by Lisa Rae Photography. Everyone was thoroughly entertained by Felix & Fingers Dueling Pianos who sang and played music fitting to the 70’s Disco theme.

  The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the awards winners. JS Farm & Ranch in Winnie won Business of the Year. Owned and operated by brothers James and Jeff Simon, JS Farm & Ranch is more than just a feed store, its General Store offers something for everyone!

  Tanner Bass, owner of Yellow Rose Meat Market in Stowell, offers local Dry Aged Angus Beef and many other local quality meats, smokehouse on site smoking multiple different sausages, boudin, jerky, and other meats. Yellow Rose is also a restaurant that serves steaks, seafood, and burgers. Bass is known for his generosity with organizations in the community and beyond.

  Ambassador of the Year was awarded to Jennifer Young Cosio. Cosio is a dedicated Chamber ambassador who is willing to assist whenever and wherever she is needed to ensure the success of chamber projects. Cosio is a talented photographer whose work is showcased in post cards and books detailing the history of the local community.

  The late Robert Dubose owned Gulf Coast Automotive for 54 years. His shop was the meeting place every morning where local farmers and ranchers met to discuss what was going on in their industry but also local and national events. Dubose was awarded The Legacy Award.

  WACC wants to thank all the sponsors for the Dueling Pianos & Awards Banquet. It is always a team effort and could not go on without the support of the business community. Also, many thanks to Chaysen Wischnewsky and all the officers and board members of the WACC for their support of the event.

  Sponsors for the Dueling Pianos and Awards Banquet: Bayou Bend, Texas First Bank, Roughneck Rentals, The Clarus Group, Winnie Dodge, Texas Financial, Accent Compliance, Dairy Queen, Coastal Gateway Health Center, Whitehawk, Prosperity Bank, The Seabreeze Beacon, My New Leaf Council Center, Dusty Turner Dirt Works, and Bluebonnet Financial Advisors.

  The money raised helps to support our free community events throughout the year. Hero’s Day (April 11th), Fireworks in the Park, Back to School Supply Drive, Trunk or Treat, and Christmas in the Park.