Chamber awards announced

The Byhalia Area Chamber of Commerce announced its awards at the December 4 luncheon held at beautiful Hedge Farm. The presentation of awards was followed by keynote speaker Coach Camp.

The coveted White Oak Award went to Reed’s Market in Byhalia, recognized as deeply rooted in the community contributing longstanding leadership, community service and involvement in growth and sustainability.

Store manager Jimmy Black accepted the award on behalf of Reed’s, known for it’s generosity in participating in food drives for Hearts & Hands.

“One of the greatest things we have in this community is Hearts & Hands,” Black said. “Please come help and donate what you can.”

“This year’s winner fills all the boxes and does just that, always giving back,” said Chamber executive director Laura Taylor.

A family owned grocery store for over 20 years, Reed’s provides great service to the growing Byhalia community, school sports teams, community and Chamber events.

The Business of the Year award went to Domino’s Pizza for its positive social and economic impact on the community and dedication to supporting the community by supporting local residents with fundraisers.

“We are blessed to have business leaders dedicated to their community,” Taylor said. “One would be hard pressed to find someone who hasn’t patronized this business. They partner with so many organizations, from golf tournaments to community events.”

The award was accepted by Phillip Pedigo.

“We are excited to still be here in this community,” he said.

The Bonafide Byhalia Spirit Award is reserved for a person or organization that embodies the spirit of the community and dedication to Byhalia.

“As our small town grows one thing we all value is the small town feel that comes from knowing our neighbors and being part of what keeps us all connected,” Taylor said. “This years winner has shown her spirit for our community, creating programs that bring people of all ages together, that empower youth, savor the history of our elders, and provide space in the heart of the community where everyone is welcome and minds are enriched by deep roots and love for Byhalia.”

Americus Young, librarian with the Ruth B. French Library, accepted the award on behalf of the library and community.

The Helping Hands Award goes to a person or organization whose volunteerism and humanitarian work impacts Byhalia and the Marshall County area.

“This year’s recipient is deeply rooted in Byhalia and spends so much of her time volunteering with multiple organizations, including jumping in to serve or lead when asked,” Taylor said. “Before I ever met her, I knew her name as it showed up everywhere encouraging people to donate toys, food or time either for her church, for school kids, for local events benefitting the community and our local food pantry, Hearts and Hands,” Taylor said.

Angelia Spindle received the award.

“Thank you, God and to Hearts and Hands. I just love what I do,” Spindle said.

Taylor asked Byhalia Mayor Don Hollingsworth to speak at the close of the meeting.

“Leadership is his main focus,” Taylor said.

The mayor said the 11 member committee established to develop a Comprehensive Plan for the town are examples of leadership.

“It all comes back to our schools. It’s all about the kids,” Hollingsworth said.

“Anybody can be a town, anybody can be a city, but it takes people to be a community,” he said. “Everybody here is part of this community.

“Hearts and Hands. That’s our people, money out of their pocket, not government. Government works for you, not for us (politicians).”

He said the town plans to get more involved with Hearts and Hands.

“It’s serving God’s purpose,” he said. “Every time I turn around Angela Spindle is there.” He praised Reed’s for serving the town of Byhalia and those in DeSoto County.

With cold drizzling rain pecking down, Hollingsworth thanked the community for coming out for the awards ceremony.

“It’s duck hunting weather. Mississippi is headed in the right direction. The town is headed in the right direction, because we are a community,” Hollingsworth said.