Volunteers Help Make The Carnival Special
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Chamber Report
By Jessie Gurner
Let’s take a quick look at the folks behind the scenes for the Watermelon Carnival, starting with Chamber manager Zandra Walker. From working with vendors and sponsors, talking with people seeking information about the carnival, selling t-shirts and carnival books, to answering phone calls and emails, she’s constantly on the move. Despite the hustle and bustle of carnival time, the regular Chamber business doesn’t pause – it continues in full swing, adding to her already busy schedule.
Next, let’s spotlight the board members. Angie Hodge serves as the president, Curtis Todd as vice-president, Jessica Richard as treasurer and Tracey Varner as secretary. The board members include Courtney Daniels, Dr. Hunter Edwards, Jackson Ward, Bard Embry, Tonya Eubanks, Clint Faust, Andy Parrish, Erin Sharp, and Grant Thompson. Each of these individuals bring a unique set of skills and a shared passion for community service.
What is the common denominator for this group, besides their obvious dedication to Water Valley?
They are exceptionally busy individuals. The kind of people who make you wonder if they’ve discovered a way to add more hours to the day. They don’t waste time. Even with mile-long to-do lists, they find ways to tackle any additional tasks thrown at them. And during carnival, there are always a dozen different things that need doing.
From board members enduring the summer heat to hammer posts into cement-like red clay for the watermelon slices along the highway, decorating the “Water Valley” hillside letters, to painting vendor spaces in the park, to handling complex business matters such as insurance and contracts, the volunteers embrace a wide array of responsibilities.
Also working behind the scenes are our city crews and law enforcement officers. Everything they do ensures that our city looks its best, runs smoothly, and ensures visitors can enjoy the festivities in a safe and well-maintained setting. Their early mornings and late nights spent preparing for carnival are a testament to their commitment to the Valley.
Cole Parrish, along with Chamber Board members Jackson Ward, Andy Parrish, and Grant Thompson, installed the giant watermelon signs to welcome everyone to Water Valley.
The success of the Watermelon Carnival hinges on the tireless efforts of a dedicated team of volunteers working behind the scenes. Along with the chamber board and members, other organizations and volunteers also spend countless hours preparing for Carnival, and their unwavering commitment to community spirit plays a pivotal role in bringing the event to life.
Their work doesn’t stop with individual tasks. These volunteers collaborate seamlessly, embodying the spirit of teamwork and unity. They come together to tackle larger jobs, ensuring that every aspect of the carnival runs smoothly. Their collective efforts reflect a deep sense of community pride and a commitment to creating an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
Their collaboration and teamwork not only enhance the carnival but also strengthen the bonds within the community, fostering a sense of togetherness and shared purpose. It’s this spirit of volunteerism and teamwork that truly makes the Watermelon Carnival a shining example of why we love Water Valley.
