The Mineola Chamber of Commerce bid a fond farewell to its outgoing president, Carmela Bernacchio and welcomed its new one, Steve Ford, who hopes to continue the tradition of moving the chamber forward in its role in the community.

The members of the chamber of commerce applauded Bernacchio's efforts as chamber president. As president, she worked by the motto, "Everything you need is in Mineola," and made showcasing the businesses in the chamber a priority. Under Bernacchio's leadership, the chamber held two businesses showcases-A Taste of Mineola, which featured Mineola's various restaurants, and Mineola in Style, which featured the different clothing, accessories and hairstylist businesses in the chamber.

As Ford noted, Bernacchio, who was the chamber president for the past three years, always tried to make people aware of the investments businesses have made in the community.

Mineola Mayor Jack M. Martins spoke about the importance of the partnership between the chamber and the village. The mayor gave Bernacchio a proclamation from the village and the key to the village. He then swore in the officers of the chamber including Ford.

Many around town may know Steve Ford as the owner of Willis Hobbies on Willis Avenue. Ironically, Ford is a neighbor of Bernacchio's business, PACE.

Willis Hobbies and the Ford family have a deep tradition in Mineola. Steve is known as a friendly and hardworking businessman who cares deeply for the village.

Ford said he wants to follow in Bernacchio's footsteps and continue with making the chamber a vibrant part of the business community. "We are truly a chamber on the move," he said.

Chamber Officers

President - Steve Ford

Vice President - Carmela Bernacchio

Membership Secretary - Amy Thompson

Administrative Secretary - Bill Green

Treasurer - Linda Doerrbecker

Assistant Treasurer - Jack Baker

Directors (Two-Year Term Expiring April 2008)

Manny DeFreitas

Peter Gollobin

Nancy Portoghese Bauer

Gary Katz

Ray Sicorsky

Alice Jones

Jennifer Poupis

Tony Lubrano

Cathy Whitley

Directors (Term Expiring 2007)

Ruth Stuart

Lou Sanders

Jerry Mehlman

Bob Rosenthal

Ronald Nagelberg

Phil Fortuna

Gail Stevens

Joy Savasta