Mission
The South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce is committed to advancing the economic growth, welfare, and success of the businesses in and around the South Belt-Ellington area.
 
Vision
To ensure South Belt-Ellington is a great place to live, work, and do business.
 
Core Values
 Collaboration, Empathy, Advocacy, Diversity and Passion
Let’s Tickle the Ivories Gala:
A Harmonious Night of Elegance
The South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual gala, Let’s Tickle the Ivories, at the Foundation for Hope Village Event Center in Friendswood. The event was a delightful blend of sophistication, entertainment, and community spirit.

As guests arrived, they were greeted by an enchanting ambiance.

The meticulously curated decor transported attendees into a world of opulence. A crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling, glowing warmly over the room. Tables adorned with fresh flowers and elegant tableware awaited the distinguished guests. The color palette—rich gold, white, and black—set the tone for an unforgettable evening.

The heart of the gala was the dueling piano performance. For two captivating hours, the ivories came alive as two talented pianists engaged in a complementary musical exchange. The repertoire spanned decades, with hits from the '70s, '80s, and ‘90s. The audience was treated to a symphony of melodies, from soulful ballads to foot-tapping rock anthems. The pianists’ fingers danced across the keys, evoking laughter, nostalgia, and applause.

The highlight of the evening was the Honorable John Whitmire, the Mayor of Houston. Mayor Whitmire graced the stage as the keynote speaker, sharing insights on the city’s growth, resilience, and the importance of community collaboration. His eloquence resonated with the audience, emphasizing the role of businesses and individuals in shaping Houston’s future.

As the gala unfolded, guests mingled, exchanged stories, and celebrated the spirit of entrepreneurship.

Outgoing Board Chairman Ezreal Garcia remarked, “Let’s Tickle the Ivories isn’t just an event; it’s a celebration of our shared aspirations. Together, we create harmonies that resonate far beyond these walls.”

As attendees left, they carried memories of a gala that struck all the right chords.
Event Sponsors
Grand Sponsors
Baby Grand Sponsors
Upright Sponsors
Console Sponsors
Congratulations to Our Award Winners
The Honorable Jo Ann Delgado
Citizen of the Year
Judge Jo Ann Delgado was elected in January 2001 as the first Hispanic female to hold the Harris County Justice of the Peace office.

With over 41 years of experience, she is a valuable asset to the bench and presides over school-related issues to ensure academic excellence.

Judge Delgado is a champion for the South Belt-Ellington area and is passionate about participating in the chamber's activities, including her favorite volunteer role as Mrs. Claus.
Denise Burleigh
Volunteer of the Year
This year's Volunteer of the Year award goes to Denise Burleigh, who has worked tirelessly on various committees and the Executive Board.

Her dedication and hard work are truly commendable. Chairing a successful event like the inaugural Gold Star Luncheon was quite an achievement.

She is incredibly detail-oriented and always prioritizes the best interests of the community and chamber members.
Anita Eakman
Chairman's Award
Anita Eakman has shown a remarkable commitment to the Chamber of Commerce. The recipient of the Chairman's Award joined in April of last year and has taken on numerous responsibilities since then.

Her meticulous attention to detail and hard work kept the chamber running smoothly, even during a transition between executive directors.
Thank You to Our 2023 Chairman of the Board
Ezreal Garcia
Mayor John Whitmire: A Journey of Service and Leadership
John Whitmire, Houston’s 63rd mayor, has a story that resonates with the essence of public service. Born and raised in the heart of Texas, Whitmire’s journey began in North Houston, where he attended Waltrip High School. During these formative years, his passion for community and governance took root.

Whitmire’s path to higher education was not without challenges. Determined to pursue his dreams, he studied political science at the University of Houston. But this wasn’t just an academic pursuit but a labor of love. Whitmire worked diligently at the Texas State Welfare Department to fund his education, interviewing food stamp recipients for compliance. These early experiences shaped his understanding of the struggles faced by everyday Texans and fueled his commitment to making a difference.

Whitmire’s dedication to public service spans over five decades. He has tirelessly championed causes close to his heart, whether advocating for education reform, criminal justice, or community development. Whitmire’s unwavering commitment has left an indelible mark on Houston and beyond.

Whitmire stepped into the highest office in the fourth-largest city in the United States. But why does he want this responsibility? His reasons are deeply rooted in his love for Houston and its people.

In his own words, Mayor Whitmire says, “Houston isn’t just a city; it’s a vibrant tapestry of dreams, struggles, and triumphs. As mayor, I want to weave those threads into a stronger, more resilient community.”

We are honored that Mayor Whitmire accepted our invitation to attend the gala and be the featured keynote speaker. His presence would not have been possible without Marie Flickinger, the South Belt-Ellington Leader Editor and so much more, and her close connection with him.

We are excited our mayor views Houston as a city of boundless potential.