Chamber Reception Is Thursday
By Jessie Gurner
Herald Contributor
WATER VALLEY – The Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce is rolling out the red carpet for its annual Chamber Reception on Thursday, April 24 at 6 p.m., and you’re invited to join the celebration! This year’s event will take place at the elegant Fountain Square Event Plaza on Frostland Drive, and promises an evening full of friendship, recognition, and community spirit.
One of the evening’s most exciting developments is the debut of the Business of the Year Award, a new honor selected by popular vote among Chamber members. The winning business will be announced live, applauding its exceptional service, contributions to local growth, and strong community presence.
The program will also feature several meaningful moments, including the Braswell Hatcher Community Service Award—a heartfelt tribute to an individual who has gone above and beyond to serve Water Valley with dedication and impact. The Chamber will also proudly present its annual Elliott Scholarship to an outstanding high school senior who demonstrates both leadership and community involvement.
Adding a touch of royalty to the reception, Watermelon Queen Mya Harden will be in attendance. A former Elliott Scholarship recipient herself, Mya is currently studying broadcast journalism at Northwest Mississippi Community College.
Guests will enjoy live music by Gritty Flyright and Joe Austin and the Tallahatchies, along with refreshments from Six Peas Catering and plenty of time to catch up with neighbors and friends before the evening’s presentations begin.
Mayor Tommy Reynolds, now serving his second year, will deliver the annual State of the City Address, while Kagan Coughlin, Executive Director of the Yalobusha County Economic Development District, will offer a forward-looking update on projects and initiatives shaping the local economy.
The evening will conclude with the introduction of the Chamber’s 2025–2026 Board of Directors and Officers, a new leadership team ready to build on the year’s momentum and lead the Chamber into its next chapter.
Come enjoy the refreshments, share a story, and help the Chamber honor the people, businesses, and efforts that make Water Valley a place we’re proud to call home.
