The Kosciusko Attala Partnership hosted their annual banquet on October 7^th, 2025, at The Guitar Academy and Carousel House located on the square in Kosciusko. The theme for this year’s banquet was “A Night in Hollywood” with a dress code of Hollywood glitz and glam. The event featured a chamber of commerce awards ceremony honoring local businesses and leaders, a silent auction, and live entertainment provided by Naomi and Joey Raines of Jackson-based indie-rock band The Whispering Trees. This was the first banquet after a five-year hiatus.

“The event was wonderful! When asked to perform at the KAP banquet, it was an immediate yes. The attendants were very respectful and kind. Melissa [Boswell Townsend] at The Guitar Academy is always a pleasure to work with, and it was a night full of happy memories and good music!” said Naomi Raines, of The Whispering Trees.

The banquet meal was provided by Jason’s Southern Table and dessert was provided by Behind The Pines, LLC. Each table featured Social Board charcuterie appetizers provided by The Jefferson Street Social. The themed décor was provided by Cottage Wraps. Cottage Wraps, a local business offering balloon garlands and specialty giftwrapping, is operated by Kosciusko resident Macey Price. “I loved getting the chance to put my talents to work for the KAP annual banquet. The banquet turned out amazing — not just the decorations, but everything about the night. The KAP team went above and beyond, and it was such a special event for the community!” said Price.

14 awards were presented during the awards ceremony. They and their recipients included:

– Small Business of the Year – Central MS Office Supply.

– Big Business of the Year – Cain Inc.

– New Business of the Year – The Jefferson Street Social.

– Industry Excellence Award – Dickerson Petroleum.

– Resilience Award – Attala Steel Industries.

– Legacy Leader – Danny Holt.

– Kosciusko Attala Young Professional of the Year – Madison Taylor.

– Behind the Scenes Hero – Prairie Farms.

– Downtown Champion Award – Melissa Boswell Townsend.

– Community Hero – Drew Myers.

– Spirit of Kosciusko – Angel Albin MacDonald.

– Community Table Award – Jason’s Southern Table.

– The Extra Mile Award – Peggy & Michael Davide.

– KAP Volunteers of the Year – Shane and Dawn McCown.

“This year’s banquet reminded me just how special our community is. Seeing a sold-out crowd filled with people who believe in Kosciusko and Attala County was both humbling and inspiring. Thank you to everyone who continues to support the Partnership and our mission to move our community forward together,” said Mary Katherine Dean, Executive Director of the Kosciusko Attala Partnership.