A large crowd gathered December 19, for the weekly Chamber Coffee, an event that combined regular Chamber updates with a heartfelt celebration honoring the retirement of longtime Chamber Director Marieta Hauser.
Hauser opened the gathering by commenting on the recent change in weather before announcing the winners of this year’s Hometown Shopper promotion. The grand prize winner, receiving $400 in Ulysses Bucks, was Tommie Ballesteros. Winners of $100 in Ulysses Bucks included Sandra Westover, Shelly Alexander, and Kimberly Willis. Congratulations were extended to all of the winners.
During the program, it was emphasized that many of the community events held throughout the year would not be possible without the continued support of local businesses and individuals who help fund Chamber promotions. The following Chamber members were recognized and received a round of applause for their contributions: 5G Irrigation, Alejandro’s Restaurant, American Implement, Anderson Imaging, Bank of Ulysses, Golden Plains Credit Union, Grant County Bank, KULY, Pioneer Communications, Pioneer Electric, SW Kansas Sales, and The Ulysses News. Attendees were reminded that without these businesses, many of Ulysses’ cherished community events would not be possible.
Upcoming events were also highlighted, including Parents Day Out and the Holiday Matinee. A special thank-you was given to Linda Velasquez for her willingness to help organize the event each year. The movie will begin at 2 p.m. and feature “The Grinch.” Participants are asked to bring a canned food donation to benefit Loaves & Fishes.
Pink Out was also discussed, and cancer survivors interested in participating were encouraged to contact Becky Zerr at 620-356-5570. A reminder was shared about an upcoming blood drive, noting that appointments will be required. It was also announced that Ulysses has welcomed a new business, Cam Rock.
As the event transitioned to honoring Hauser, she took a moment to thank everyone in attendance, giving special recognition to her husband and family for their continued support. Robin Leonard shared brief remarks reflecting on her time working with Hauser.
The Chamber Board and Ambassador Board presented Hauser with gifts, including luggage, presented by Kristi Breese, and a special front-page keepsake created by The Ulysses News and presented by Publisher Nancy Kletecka, featuring fun, Marieta-themed "maybe not true" stories.
The program concluded with Grant County Community Foundation Director Sabrina Gaddis presenting several $1,000 donations to local organizations, including Bob Wilson Memorial Hospital Volunteers, the Ulysses Ministerial Alliance Christmas Family Program, and Ulysses Learn & Play Do Good Events.
The morning served as both a celebration of community involvement and a heartfelt tribute to Marieta Hauser’s lasting impact on Ulysses.
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