Main Street Is Ramping Up For A Renewed Surge
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Water Valley Main Street Director Alyssa shared plans for the upcoming year during the annual meeting held last Thursday evening in the Pocket Park. – Photo by David Howell
WATER VALLEY – It’s time for a renewed surge for the Water Valley Main Street Association and the new director is already working hard to make it happen. Alyssa Benedict was hired as the new director in September and was formally introduced to members during the annual meeting in the Pocket Park on Oct. 14.
“Welcome to Water Valley” is something I love hearing and I have heard it so much over the last six weeks,” the new director reported during her opening remarks. “2022 is just around the corner and we are diving right in,” Benedict added. She provided an overview of objectives on the horizon, starting with a membership program to help get people involved. The membership options range from a Friend of Main Street for individuals who want to get involved to the small business member level ($100) all the way to the platinum level.
“There are two businesses in Water Valley, Mechanics Bank and BorgWarner, who have committed to that platinum level. Having partnerships with big corporations is going to help with big projects,” Benedict explained.
She also stressed the importance of volunteers and signup opportunities include committing to one project or an entire year.
“That is how an association like Main Street thrives,” Benedict told the attendees. Plans also include establishing committees for each of Main Street’s four points – organization, promotion, design and business enhancement; implementing a Downtown Diplomats program and business promotion on social media.
Her vision also includes close cooperation with other organizations in the city.
“Zandra (Walker) with the Chamber has been great keeping me informed and working with me. I plan to do more of that in the future so our businesses are connecting and working together, and our organizations are too,” the director continued.
“I have really enjoyed getting to know everyone, hearing stories and getting acclimated with the businesses and everyone else in Water Valley,” Benedict said.
Outgoing board president Joe York also spoke at the annual meeting, extending appreciation for many who have help keep the organization going during a crazy time during the last year and a half as the community and world endured a pandemic. York’s list included outgoing board members, the City of Water Valley officials, the 4-H Groundbreakers, Joe Black and Cinnamon Foster.
York also introduced new board members – Lee McMinn, Lauren Stokes, Hallie Thomas, Tavi Towles, Bobby Turnage and Travis Turner.
