Celebrating 2023 And Looking Ahead
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Chamber Report
By Jessie Gurner
As we approach the new year, let’s reflect on some of the incredible achievements of the Chamber throughout 2023, highlighting a few standout moments.
One of the most prominent events was the annual Watermelon Carnival, a lively weekend celebration in early August that drew crowds not only from Water Valley but also from several states. The festivities kicked off with a Street Dance and fireworks on Friday, followed by a Saturday filled with continuous entertainment, food vendors, arts and crafts booths, contests, parades, an antique car show, a 3-K run, and much more.
The Train Tracks Pork Attach barbecue contest has become an integral part of the Carnival and this past year the Memphis BBQ Network Judges Training was held in Water Valley. The six-hour training class comprehensively covered all facets of barbecue judging, providing participants with the unique opportunity to savor delectable offerings from two Championship Teams.
The Business Spotlight Award, initiated in 2016, continued to shine a light on outstanding community supporters. This award recognizes merchants, businesses, and individuals who demonstrate outstanding commitment to community support and active participation in local activities.
Throughout 2023, the Chamber extended a helping hand to neighbors, exemplified by the compassionate aid provided to storm victims in the Rolling Fork area. The Chamber donated $2,000 and delivered essential supplies, showcasing a commitment to supporting those affected by tornadoes.
The annual Chamber Reception, in addition to presenting new board members, also celebrated community service and scholarship achievements, honoring individuals including the 2023 Braswell Hatcher Community Service Award recipient Ora Lee Phillips and 2023 Elliott Scholarship beneficiary Bri Parrish.
This past year the Chamber played a vital role in recognizing Water Valley’s Guinness World Record for the Largest Watermelon Eating Contest. This achievement was immortalized with the installation of commemorative signage at Crawford Sports Complex, a lasting tribute to this remarkable feat.
The Chamber’s Power Hour is a popular new quarterly event that was launched this year. BankFirst hosted the Power Hour in December with fun games and cash prizes. Bill Sikma rolls the dice for a cash prize.
This past year also saw the introduction of the Chamber Power Hour, an event organized quarterly to highlight local businesses. It not only provided the community with valuable insights into these enterprises but also created evenings of genuine fun and fellowship.
The Christmas season brought more joy, with Business Holiday Open House, the enchanting Water Valley Christmas Parade, and Christmas in the Valley, featuring after-hours shopping, carriage rides, and festive characters.
The year concluded with the Christmas Tour of Homes, offering a captivating journey through five of Water Valley’s most beautiful homes.
Looking ahead to 2024, plans are already underway for the Watermelon Carnival, the Christmas parade, and other events that support the business community of Water Valley.
If you’ve ever wondered about the Chamber’s activities, this list only scratches the surface. If you’re interested in being a part of it, please reach out to the Chamber office for additional information on becoming a member. We welcome you to join us!
