Valdosta, GA 2014 Community Profile by Tivoli Design + Media Group

TABLE OF CONTENTS CommunityLink.com

1 800-455-5600

production vp of production operations Amanda White

lead design Josh Mueller

managing editor Jay Nahrkorn

copy editor & page compositor Laura Wilcoxen

copywriting Dana Hinders Amanda Knoles Jay Nehrkorn David Webb Mary West

website creation & support Josh Chandler director of media purchasing Diana Vaughn

WELCOME TO VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY A Place of Pleasant and Surprising Contrasts.................................................... 6 Chamber Happenings & Highlights.................................................................. 8

BUSINESS Moody AFB - Serving Our Country, Impacting Our Community........................ 10 Biz Briefs...................................................................................................... 12

photography Wes Sewell

business development director of business development George Prudhomme

business development manager Bonnie Ebers

vp of sales operations & client care Debbie Moss

customer service director Kathy Risley

marketing consultant Rader Walker

advertising ad research Mary Kopshever Mildred Walker

ad traffic Carol Smith

account support Terri Ahner

Jump-Starting Entrepreneurial Visions............................................................. 20 Infrastructure for Industry: Building a Ground-Breaking Community.................. 26 By the Numbers: Demographics..................................................................... 28

ad design Mary Caldwell

administrative support administrative support Kathy Hagene Carol Smith

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

human resources assistant Teresa Craig mailroom technician Melinda Bowlin

DOWNTOWN VALDOSTA VIBE College-Town Energy for People of All Ages................................................... 30

information technology publishing systems specialist Christopher Miller

executive leadership chairman and founder Craig Williams

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ABOUT This book is published by CommunityLink and distributed through the Ste. Genevieve Area Chamber of Commerce. For advertising information or questions or comments about this book, contact CommunityLink at 800-455-5600 or by e-mail at info@CommunityLink.com.

FOR INFORMATION Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce, 416 North Ashley Street, P.O. Box 790, Valdosta GA 31601, Telephone 229-2478100, Fax 229-245-0071, www.valdostachamber.com ÂŠ 2014 Craig Williams Creative, Inc., 4742 Holts Prairie Road, Post Office Box 306, Pinckneyville, IL 62274-0306, 618-357-8653. All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher.

HEALTH & WELLNESS South Georgia Medical Center....................................................................... 32 Regional Service Providers ............................................................................ 34 Rock Star Status: Azalea Health..................................................................... 36 Fit & Happy ................................................................................................. 38 VSU and SGMC: Expanding Partnerships to Produce More Health Care Professionals................................................. 40

10 EDUCATION K–12 �� 42 Wiregrass Georgia Tech College.................................................45 What’s New at VSU? ................................................................46 Southern Charm, Forward Thinking Create a World of Opportunities at VSU..................................46 Georgia Military College............................................................47

HOMES, HAMLETS & HOOK-UPS Making Your Move to Valdosta...................................................48

RETIREMENT/LIFESTYLES Energized in Valdosta................................................................54 Never Stop Learning..................................................................57 More for Seniors in South Georgia ............................................58 Fellowship Home at Brookside.....................................................59

FAITH AND FAMILY

32 VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

A Moment in Time......................................................................60 Houses of Worship ....................................................................61

RECREATION, CELEBRATION & REFLECTION Visual Arts.................................................................................62 On With the Show! Theatre in Lowndes County...........................64 Valdosta Symphony Orchestra....................................................66 Join Us in Valdosta.....................................................................67 Create Memories at Wild Adventures..........................................68 Lowndes County for the Outdoors Enthusiast................................70 Everybody Plays in Valdosta.......................................................71

RELAX Enjoy the Many Sides of Valdosta...............................................73

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS & PREFERRED BUSINESS LISTINGS Thank You for Your Support!.......................................................74

WELCOME TO VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

A PLACE OF PLEASANT AND SURPRISING CONTRASTS

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

aldosta and its surrounding area offer just what someone from outside the region might expect to find in South Georgia. Beautiful and historic structures, picturesque landscapes, mild winters that make outdoor activities year-round pursuits, and the kind of hospitality for which the South is so famous — all of these can be experienced within the borders of Lowndes County. It’s certainly the kind of place where you can find a relaxed lifestyle, if that’s what you prefer. But it’s also a place with some pleasant, and perhaps even surprising, contrasts. Growing but not crowded. Moving but not rushed. A place to acquire a quality education and start an exciting new career, but also one of the

country’s best spots to put the working days behind you and enjoy life. Conditions in Lowndes County are right for professionals to engage in business at full steam and to prosper. The presence of economic drivers such as Interstate 75 and Moody Air Force Base provide a solid foundation, while Valdosta State University and Wiregrass Georgia Technical College offer workforce development, advanced education and training options for growing businesses and their employees. Conditions for growth are especially good in our small business sector, where startups relating to a variety of industries have provided diversity in the business community and kept talented graduates of local higher education institutions right here at home; two things crucial to sustainability. The appeal of our community to young professionals and new business owners is, of course, by design. We have made a concerted effort to create the right environment for this type of growth, and Valdosta has received

acclaim for its support systems that encourage entrepreneurship and small-business expansion. Valdosta was the first in Georgia to be officially declared an “Entrepreneur Friendly City,” and within the last five years the city has received recognition from Forbes and Money Magazine in lists publicizing the best places to launch a business and the top 100 places for entrepreneurs. While young professionals and entrepreneurs find the area a great place to work and raise their families, Lowndes County has also made waves as a locale for active retirees. In fact, Valdosta has been featured as one of the nation’s most desirable retirement locations in the book America’s 100 Best Places to Retire by Mary Lu Abbot and Annette Fuller (fifth edition). Yes, we have great weather and terrific golf, but that’s just the beginning. Retirees here also enjoy a wealth of cultural activities, volunteerism, continuing education opportunities and fun places to take their grandchildren. Adding to the appeal is a quality

A PLACE TO ACQUIRE A QUALITY EDUCATION AND START A WHOLE NEW CAREER, BUT ALSO ONE OF THE COUNTRY’S BEST SPOTS TO PUT THE WORKING DAYS BEHIND YOU AND ENJOY LIFE.

WELCOME TO VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

Photo Courtesy of Valdosta-Lowndes Parks & Recreation Authority

health care system with services that meet the needs of not only the retirees themselves, but their aging parents as well. Lowndes County has long been blessed with community members who are driven to enhance our business environment for the next generation and our quality of life for residents of all ages. For more than a century, the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce has been a rallying point for these dedicated stakeholders, leading the charge by leveraging, nurturing and promoting the community’s strong points. Throughout this edition of our bi-annual publication, we’ll not only give you a closer look at what our community has accomplished and what it has to offer, but we’ll also prove our claims by introducing you to real professionals and retirees who are thriving right here. We hope that their words and their stories inspire you to come see for yourself why people in all stages of life are finding our community of pleasant contrasts to be the right place to call home.

• Morning Worship 8:45AM & 11:00AM • Contemporary Service “Solomon’s Porch” 9:30am & 11:00am • Channel 10 WALB Sunday 11AM • Pre-School & Mother’s Morning Out

1714 B Gornto Rd., Valdosta, Georgia 31601

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

• Sunday School 9:45AM

WELCOME TO VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

CHAMBER HAPPENINGS & HIGHLIGHTS

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

WHERE BUSINESS SAVVY MEETS YOUTHFUL ENTHUSIASM

A community’s future is dependent on keeping young talent in the area and helping future leaders develop. Engaging, encouraging and developing young professionals is key to sustainability, and the Chamber’s MetroOne Young Professionals group is doing just that. Founded in 2007, MetroOne has grown remarkably and currently has more than 500 members between the ages of 21 and 40. One of the most important aspects of the group is its value as a networking tool. MetroOne events like the Progressive Dinner, which has the group moving through some of the area’s best restaurants over the course of an evening, provide unique opportunities for young business people to meet new contacts and make new friends. The group also provides a variety of personal and professional development opportunities, including CEO Unplugged advice sessions with seasoned business executives, Lunch-n-Learn workshops and annual Professional Development Seminars. Their recognition program, known as “4 Under 40,” praises four young professionals for their accomplishments and introduces these rising stars to the community. One of MetroOne’s most recent projects was to develop a list of 100 fun things to do in Valdosta. Especially useful for newcomers and visitors, it’s available on the MetroOne website at metroone.snappages. com/100-fun-things-to-do-in-valdosta.

RENEWED ACCREDITATION AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL There are more than 7,000 local chambers of commerce in the United States, and as of June 2013, only 217 of those chambers were accredited through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Accreditation Program. Among those, only 79 maintained a Five-Star Accreditation rating, the highest level possible. That elite group, representing just 1.1 percent of chambers nationwide, includes the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce. Achieving the U.S. Chamber’s FiveStar Accreditation is a rigorous process where the applicant must exhibit a high level of consistency in processes, sound financial practices, meaningful community and governmental involvement, excellent communications, and valuable benefits for members. The

Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber first achieved this accreditation in 2008 and successfully renewed it for yet another five years in late 2013. “Obtaining and maintaining this level of accreditation is a very large endeavor and we’ve put a great deal of energy into it, but we feel that it’s worth the effort,” said Chamber President Myrna Ballard. “Not only does a Five-Star Accreditation give a good impression to those looking at the Chamber from the outside, but more importantly, the accreditation process causes us to continually hone our procedures and programs. That kind of focus translates to providing even better service to our members, which is always our primary goal.”

WELCOME TO VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

A STRONG COMMITMENT Our newest membership option for businesses is the Chairman’s Circle Investors level. These members have made a significant investment in the Chamber of Commerce, showing their confidence in the Chamber, a strong commitment to creating a better business environment, and a desire to help us improve the overall quality of life in Lowndes County. We want to acknowledge and offer a special thanks to all of our 2014 Chairman’s Circle Investors: 1st America Health Group • Ameris Bank • Bush Wealth Management Citizens Community Bank • Cypress Lakes/Teamtemps Personnel Staffing, Inc. eLead1One/Fresh Beginnings • First State Bank & Trust Co. Georgia Power Company • Southeastern Federal Credit Union South Georgia Medical Center • Tanner Investment Group • Valdosta State University

SILVER STARS A recently developed membership offering from the Chamber, the Silver Stars program is designed to keep the area’s active retirees connected to the business community and create opportunities for them to network with other active seniors. Silver Star members receive a variety of benefits, including invitations to Chamber events such as Business After Hours, political lunch events and the Chamber Business Showcase, as well as Triple Crown Hometown lunches and trips tailored specifically for retirees. Members also receive Chamber publications, keeping them informed about important issues and happenings in the community. “The Chamber values our retirees so much, and we want them to be a part of the Chamber and enjoy everything it has to offer,” said Wanda Stanley, director of communications. Silver Star membership costs just $100 per year for a couple. You can learn more by visiting the Chamber’s website at valdostachamber.com/ silver-star-member.htm or contacting Wanda.

A MILESTONE FOR OUR HISTORIC HOME Built in 1915 for inventor and businessman E.R. Barber, the Barber House on Ashley Street

for the new post office and federal building nearby.

was heralded by the Valdosta Daily Times as

Ola Barber Pittman, however,

one of the most modern and attractive Valdosta

refused to accept the government’s

residences of its day. The plantation-style home

handwriting on the wall and waged

featured an electric passenger elevator as well

a highly spirited battle against the

as other conveniences seldom seen in area

agencies that sought to turn her

homes during that time, and its beautiful exterior

childhood home into a parking lot.

was surrounded by gardens and trees.

While her tactics and tenacity may have seemed perplexing to the high-ranking political figures

many years, but by the mid 1960s the beauty

she approached, Pittman was successful in

offices. The restoration was done with great

had all but faded away. The house itself was in

taking the “eminent” out of “eminent domain”

care to ensure that modernized infrastructure

decline, and its beautiful surroundings had given

and fending off the government’s efforts until

did not detract from the home’s historic signifi-

way to urban expansion. Barber died in 1965,

her death in 1977. Her final, and perhaps most

cance; original woodwork, fixtures and furniture

leaving the home to his daughter, Ola Barber

shrewd, action to save the home was to will the

still grace the interior. A beautiful place for

Pittman, and it seemed all but certain that the

property “to the people of Valdosta.”

the Chamber to convene, it also stands as a

property would be taken by the federal govern-

In 1980, the determination was made

ment and razed to create expanded parking

that the home would be used to house the

Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce

reminder that one person with the will to take a stand can make a difference.

“More concrete slabs we don’t need. But Lord, send us every Ola Barber Pittman you can find for we stand in the need of every bit of individualism and common sense we can find.” - From a commentary by Archie McKay, former editor of the Valdosta Daily Times

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

The grandeur of the home endured for

BUSINESS

MOODY AFB U.S. Air Force Col. Steven Ramer, 23d Wing vice commander, attends the Lowndes County High School Military Appreciation Night football game at Martin Stadium in Valdosta Ga., Sept. 7, 2012. Ramer was an honorary captain and called the coin toss at the beginning of the game to decide which team got the ball first. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Paul Francis)

SERVING OUR COUNTRY, IMPACTING OUR COMMUNITY

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BY AMANDA KNOLES

ocated 10 miles northeast of Valdosta and 30 miles north of the Florida border, Moody Air Force Base was used primarily for Air Force Pilot Instrument School and Instrument Flying School in its early years. Following World War II, Moody was inactive until May 1951, when it was reactivated to train Air Force pilots for the Korean conflict. The 347th Tactical Fighter Wing relocated from Thailand to Moody in September 1985, and in October 2006 the 347th RQW was re-designated the 23rd Wing. At that time the base assumed the responsibility for carrying on the historic Flying Tigers’ heritage. Today the premier wing of the USAF executes worldwide operations in support of humanitarian interests, U.S. national security and the war on terrorism. The 23rd Wing consists of approximately 5,500 military and civilian personnel, including geographically separate units in Nevada, Florida and Arizona. Units at Moody include a Mission Support Group, Medical Group, Maintenance Group, Fighter Group and Rescue Group. The mission of the 23rd Wing is to organize, train and equip Flying Tigers to rapidly deploy and execute precision attack, personnel recovery

and combat support functions. The 23rd Wing has been awarded the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award nine times in its impressive history. In August 2013 the South Georgia Military Affairs Council (SGMAC) hosted a luncheon to welcome Col. Chad Franks to Valdosta as the 23rd Wing Commander of Moody Air Force Base. U.S. Representative Jack Kingston praised local leaders for their ongoing efforts to ensure the base remains operational. SGMAC is an alliance of local chambers representing Valdosta-Lowndes County, Adel-Cook County, LakelandLanier County and Nashville-Berrien County. The council’s mission is to protect Moody Air Force Base from actions that negatively impact the base and the community, such as Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) and sequestration. Col. Franks expressed his appreciation for the community’s longstanding support of Moody Air Force Base. “I truly mean it when I say that our surrounding cities provide the best community support in the Air Force to the airmen and families of Team Moody — support that is unrivaled from what I’ve seen at other Air Force bases throughout my career,” he said.

BUSINESS

U.S. Air Force Col. Chad Franks, 23rd Wing commander, speaks during the South Georgia Military Affairs Council luncheon in Valdosta, Ga., Aug. 23, 2013. Franks spoke about the mission of Moody Air Force Base, Ga., and his previous experiences working with the Valdosta community. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jarrod Grammel)

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Brandon Smith, 38th Rescue Squadron pararescueman, looks out the door of an HH-60G Pave Hawk piloted by Col. Billy D. Thompson, 23rd Wing commander, during Thompson’s final flight at Moody Air Force Base, Ga., June 14, 2013. A final or “fini” flight is a pilot’s last flight before leaving a squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jarrod Grammel)

Gary Sinise, founder of the Lt. Dan Band, meets Airmen from Moody Air Force Base, Ga., Sept. 15, 2013. The Lt. Dan Band travels to perform for military members all over the world. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Alexis Grotz)

“I TRULY MEAN IT WHEN I SAY THAT OUR SURROUNDING CITIES PROVIDE THE BEST COMMUNITY SUPPORT IN THE AIR FORCE TO THE AIRMEN AND FAMILIES OF TEAM MOODY...” - COL. CHAD FRANKS, 23RD WING COMMANDER OF MOODY AIR FORCE BASE

THE MOST RECENT ECONOMIC IMPACT REPORT PRODUCED BY THE 23RD WING CITED 1,872 JOBS CREATED WITH AN AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY OF $32,441.

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

Franks emphasized that Moody has an international impact, citing statistics that Moody’s Rescue Warriors worked more than 11,000 hours and saved 1,330 lives, in addition to assisting in 1,973 saves. Moody AFB plays a crucial role in Lowndes County. According to the Fiscal Year 2010 Economic Impact Statement, Moody contributes nearly $448 million annually to the local economy. The airmen and their families are a vital part of the community. In addition to shopping at local stores, they attend schools and churches, take part in annual events, and help the city in countless other ways. Moody also plays a significant role in creating jobs, with more than $31 million in civilian pay. The most recent Economic Impact Report produced by the 23rd Wing cited 1,872 jobs created, with an average annual salary of $32,441. Construction projects (including military, O&M, NAF and military family housing) have totaled over $47 million in recent years, providing additional employment for local contractors and subcontractors.

The Honorary Commander Program at Moody AFB has also helped forge a stronger bond between the base and the community. The program allows Team Moody commanders and airmen to get to know local civic leaders and learn more about the surrounding community. Civilians chosen for the program have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the base and its mission as they get a glimpse of behindthe-scenes operations. Honorary commanders are chosen from local business owners, Chamber of Commerce members and educators and serve a two-year term with their assigned units. Sherry Zipperer, marketing and sales officer at First State Bank & Trust, is currently serving a two-year term as one of 14 new honorary commanders. Zipperer was chosen to be a part of the 23rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. “I had heard about the Honorary Commander Program for years, and I am so excited to be a part of it. I know it will only increase my appreciation for the airmen and the work they do,” she said. “Moody is so important to Valdosta. We appreciate everything that Moody does and what it brings to our community.”

BUSINESS

BIZ BRIEFS

BY AMANDA KNOLES

CITY MARKET VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

citymarketboutique.com • 229-219-0007

When Jessica Newman took ownership of City Market five years ago, the goal was to transform the 9,000-square-foot space into an inviting department store filled with attractive boutiques and shops. City Market features stylish women’s clothing from brands like BB Dakota, BCBG, Karlie and MM Couture, plus handbags, shoes and accessories. Other shops within the store feature children’s clothing, home décor and kitchenware items, bath products, linens, and unique gift items. Jessica practically grew up in downtown Valdosta. Her parents, Jerry and Kim Newman, named Jessie’s Eats and Treats for their daughter, and her picture was used in ads for years. “It didn’t hurt when we took over City Market that many people in the community already knew us from Jessie’s,” Jessica said. City Market is a popular stop for participants in the First Fridays events. Live entertainment is frequently featured, and the works of local artists are displayed throughout the store. The Café offers a variety of sandwiches, hot dogs, nachos and sides, along with soft drinks, coffee and beers, with special menu items created for First Fridays. The Loft, a second-floor space overlooking downtown, is available for wedding receptions, meetings, parties and other special events.

Giving back to the community has always been important to the Newmans. The store is a supporter of Greater Valdosta United Way, Special Olympics and the Children’s Miracle Network. City Market is also a distributor of Toms Shoes. (For every pair of Toms that is bought a pair is distributed to a needy child.) Jessica is excited about City Market’s future and is appreciative of the support the store has received from the community. “My goal is to encourage more people to shop locally and make sure City Market remains a must-see stop for anyone shopping downtown,” she noted.

CITY MARKET IS A POPULAR STOP FOR PARTICIPANTS IN THE FIRST FRIDAYS EVENTS. LIVE ENTERTAINMENT IS FREQUENTLY FEATURED, AND THE WORKS OF LOCAL ARTISTS ARE DISPLAYED THROUGHOUT THE STORE.

BUSINESS

COVINGTON’S DINING AND CATERING www.covingtonscatering.com

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

Located in downtown Valdosta, Covington’s is a restaurant and catering business owned by the Cox family. Stan and Sue Cox had been in the hotel business for more than 20 years when they decided to open a catering business in 1992. Today the restaurant is well known for serving one of the most delicious lunches in town, with a menu that includes a variety of sandwiches, salads and soups, as well as specialties like lasagna and chicken artichoke lavosh. Five years ago Sue and Stan received the Chamber’s “Big Thinker Award” for their entrepreneurial efforts in their catering and restaurant businesses and their investments to help further downtown development. In 2011 Covington’s won the Chamber’s “Small Business of the Year Award” in recognition of the Cox family’s strong entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to superb customer service. “Winning those awards meant a lot to us,” said Cox. “It is always nice to be recognized by your peers. But it has also motivated us to maintain our high standard of customer service. We are very grateful for the community support we have received.” Cox acknowledges that running the restaurant has its own set of challenges, but the catering business is what really keeps them hopping. Specializing in weddings and rehearsal dinners, Covington’s also handles a variety of special events. “We can handle every party detail, from tents, flowers, tables, chairs and linens to liquor, hors d’oerves, food and dessert,” she said. For those who don’t require full catering service, Covington’s offers a wide selection of takehome items, including entrees, sides, desserts and party foods. A few years ago the family decided to open another restaurant next door. 306 North features a menu that is a mix of Southern sophistication and casual dining. Specialties include grilled steaks, chops and seafood, as well as a seasonal selection of tempting salads and appetizers.

BUSINESS

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

DUPONT CROP PROTECTION LOGISTICS AND DISTRIBUTION FACILITY www.dupont.com/products-and-services/crop-protection.html

DuPont Valdosta opened its new Logistics and Distribution Center in August 2012. The 150,000-square-foot site is the main hub for global distribution of agricultural products manufactured at the Valdosta crop protection plant. The facility at the Westside Business Park is the result of the combined efforts of DuPont headquarters, the Valdosta-Lowndes County Industrial Authority, the city of Valdosta and Durocky Road, which oversaw construction of the project. The $5 million development is part of the Valdosta-Lowndes County Industrial Authority’s initiative to encourage economic development in the county, and the facility includes solar power generation to provide up to 30 percent of the site’s electricity. As the first facility at the Westside Business Park, the DuPont center is expected to increase interest in Valdosta’s business park from other businesses, provide significant tax revenue to the city, and create more jobs. “This facility has been specifically built to address our long-term storage and transportation requirements,” said Ivan Caldwell, DuPont Valdosta site manager. “As our agriculture business continues to grow, we are in a position to manage future expansion without disruption to our manufacturing process.” In addition to providing more space, the new facility is equipped to handle products that require special storage facilities that the previous warehouse could not accommodate. The DuPont Valdosta plant manufactures and packages crop protection products, including insecticides and fungicides used by growers worldwide to protect fruits, vegetables and row crops. The plant also produces products for commercial and residential pest control. According to Caldwell the facility will supply insecticides and fungicides to crop growers in Georgia and Florida, allow DuPont to consolidate some of its services from other warehouses, and offer better service. “The new facility allows us to offer one-day delivery service to customers in Georgia, Florida and the Carolinas,” Caldwell said.

FIRST STATE BANK AND TRUST fsbtc.synovus.com

First State Bank and Trust (FSBTC) operates four branches in Lowndes County and has been dedicated to the community for 108 years. As part of Synovus, the leading community bank in the Southeast, First State Bank and Trust offers business and personal financial services including business banking, investment services and mortgage lending. Synovus began as a community bank in Columbus, Georgia, in 1888 and is now one of the largest financial institutions in the Southeast, offering commercial and retail banking solutions to customers in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee. Working with both small businesses and corporations, First State Bank and Trust takes a hands-on approach in business relationships. Bank representatives assist local businesses in evaluating their financial needs and offer custom solutions that can help maximize cash flow or facilitate cost-effective loans or lines of credit. Team members are trained to help customers with their changing needs, whether it be setting up college funds for children, explaining trusts and retirement plans, or assisting with funding for a business startup. “The bank holds seminars for business professionals, and several team members teach at Habitat for Humanity, helping new home owners become better educated on handling their finances,” explained Sherry Zipperer, marketing and sales officer. Giving back to the community is a tradition at First State Bank and Trust. To help celebrate its birthday, the bank collected Christmas gifts from the community to be distributed to the airmen stationed at Moody Air Force Base. FSBTC and Synovus team members and their families have also

BUSINESS

volunteered at Second Harvest of South Georgia’s Food Bank, processing food for the needy and donating 380 pounds of food. “FSBTC is a proud sponsor of numerous events throughout the year, including the annual South Georgia Classic golf tournament, which benefits South Georgia Medical Center,” Zipperer added. Team members also participated in the Relay for Life, finishing in the Top 10 of 93 teams and raising over $6,000 for the American Cancer Society. The bank has also been a strong supporter of Greater Valdosta United Way, which benefits more than 15 local agencies including the American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, the Salvation Army, and other local charities and organizations.

WORKING WITH BOTH AND CORPORATIONS, FIRST STATE BANK AND TRUST TAKES A HANDS-ON APPROACH IN BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS.

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BUSINESS

OUTSOURCE LOGISTICS www.outsourcelogistics.com

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Founded 14 years ago, Outsource Logistics has grown from a small warehouse with one delivery van to a leader in supply chain solutions in the Southeast. The company now operates three separate divisions with over 70 employees. The rapidly expanding enterprise includes a 150,000-square-foot multi-client commercial warehouse and order fulfillment center, a 400,000-square-foot dedicated

warehouse center, and an additional 500,000 square feet of leased warehouse space. The company offers a full range of modern transport options, including van, flatbed, refrigerated, intermodal and freight pooling services to ensure customers receive product deliveries on time. Owner Paul Everett notes that his trusted staff has over 100 years in combined logistics experience, with experts ready to handle all areas of service, including warehousing, transportation and customer service.

“We can handle everything from delivery of small truckloads to managing fully staffed warehousing operations,” he explained. According to Everett, many companies can achieve significant cost savings by using Outsource Logistics. The flexibility of resources, including space, labor and equipment, are some of the advantages of utilizing the company. “With our services clients can obtain professional warehousing and distribution services while only paying for the space and services they need,” he said. “This provides cost savings, eliminates wasted space and gives them the flexibility to adjust inventory levels to meet changing or seasonal demands.” Outsource Logistics also specializes in order fulfillment — offering efficient order processing, affordable storage and shipping services, and fast turnaround time on pickup, packing and shipping. “We have a comprehensive Warehouse Management System (WMS) to effectively manage and ship inventories,” Everett said. “In many cases we can reduce delivery times and lower shipping costs.” The Specialized Services Division handles regional deliveries of large-scale, high-value products including furniture, appliances and time-sensitive deliveries with a 10-hour drive-time radius. Carefully trained delivery associates provide expedited delivery service that gets products to customers when other delivery methods can’t.

BUSINESS

NEXXTEP TECHNOLOGY www.nexxtep.com

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WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

Since the company was founded 12 years ago, Nexxtep Technology has grown from two to 22 employees and achieved double-digit revenue growth each year. Paul Nichols and Stuart Avera began the business primarily serving existing small business clients from previous ventures. Ryan Williams joined the company in 2003, and two years later Bart Shiver became the fourth partner. Together the partners bring a diverse range of talent and experience that has helped the company excel. Nexxtep is a technology outsourcing company specializing in professional services, managed IT services, data services, cloud services and mobile office services. Clients range from businesses with 10 to 78,000 employees. Their main client base is in South Georgia and North Florida, but they also work with companies in several other states throughout the country. Industries served include health care and hospitals, public accounting and law firms, agriculture, real estate, construction, and manufacturing industries. According to founder Paul Nichols, the company’s primary mission is “to be a trusted IT advisor that can help solve business challenges and help clients become more efficient and profitable.” Part of the challenge the four partners face is staying ahead of fast-changing technology so they can provide clients with innovative solutions. Other professional services include business process management, custom application development, virtual CIO services, website design and web marketing. In 2012 Nexxtep began developing and marketing an application for business process management, called ProcessPlan, that allows a company to automate the workflow and employee notifications so team members are always aware of what needs to be done and important tasks don’t get overlooked. Along with providing a challenging and rewarding work environment that allows its employees to be creative and flourish, Nexxtep management has long believed in giving back to the community through participation in activities that have a positive impact. “We have a responsibility to support all efforts to improve Valdosta-Lowndes County’s business environment and quality of life,” Nichols emphasized.

BUSINESS

SOUTH GEORGIA SOLAR www.sga-solarpower.com

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Ron and Sharon Jackson moved to Valdosta in 2007 and opened South Georgia Solar in 2009. While both had owned businesses in Pennsylvania, they were determined their new venture would have something to do with green energy. Their business started off slowly, but the couple has

seen steady growth as the demand for solar products has increased in recent years. “We provide our clients with the latest in renewable energy technology and offer some of the best ENERGY STAR rated and advanced solar products in the industry,” Sharon noted. Ron has more than 30 years’ experience in civil engineering, site development design and construction management and over 14 years’ experience in procurement management. He is a solar power renewable energy installer, consultant and project manager for the

expresspros.com/valdostaga

company. Sharon works as business manager and sales marketing representative. She is a procurement specialist with more than 15 years’ experience in buying and selling various commodities to state and federal agencies. An experienced staff assists the Jacksons in providing the latest in green energy products to Valdosta and surrounding communities. South Georgia Solar can save the average homeowner 35 to 85 percent on their utility bills and reduce bills for commercial owners by 25 to 50 percent with a three-to-five year return on investment, according to the Jacksons. The company provides support from initial site consultation to professional design and installation, along with help preparing rebate applications. Services provided by South Georgia Solar include solar power attic fans, solar power security lights, solar photovoltaic systems, SGASP power units, battery bank backup kits and hybrid street lighting systems. The company has installed solar power systems for Radiology Associates of Valdosta, DeKalb Technical College and the city of Hahira. One of the company’s more memorable projects included working with Valdosta Shared Office Space to make their 127-year-old building green. Ron Jackson served as project manager, and Andy Dukes of Dukes HVAC custom-engineered the system according to specifications provided by South GA Solar Power.

BUSINESS

SOUTH GEORGIA PECAN COMPANY www.georgiapecan.com

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

Founded in Valdosta in 1913 by the Pearlman family, South Georgia Pecan was incorporated in 1926 and operated as a family-owned pecanshelling business until 1967, when it was purchased by the Beatrice Food Group. In 1983 when Beatrice divisions were being sold off, Ed Crane and Jim Worn bought South Georgia Pecan and continue to run it today. In 2006 the company moved into a 200,000-square-foot plant previously owned by Levi Strauss & Co., with the added space helping to boost the company’s capacity to produce more nuts and serve more customers. Located in the heart of the pecan belt, the company has convenient access to the shipping docks in Jacksonville, Florida, and Savannah, Georgia. Product quality and excellent customer service are two major reasons for the company’s continuing growth. Boasting the only pecan shell grinding plant in the world, South Georgia Pecan shells approximately 160,000 pounds of pecans a day, using advanced equipment to test the quality, shell and sort the nuts. Approximately 75 percent of the company’s pecans are from crops grown in Georgia, Alabama and Florida. South Georgia Pecan supplies major food manufacturers and sells nuts to many of the nation’s large supermarket chains. Today the business employs approximately 175 during its peak season. Soon after the Iraq War began, South Georgia Pecan began sending boxes of pecans a few times each year to deployed soldiers. In 2009 the company launched its official Pecans for Soldiers program, which allows customers to purchase nuts at cost which are then shipped to deployed soldiers as well as wounded soldiers at VA hospitals, courtesy of South Georgia Pecan and the Freedom Alliance. Moody Air Force Base and local residents also provide names for package recipients. The company also provides fundraising opportunities for organizations and offers a popular selection of gift items. The gift shop features baskets brimming with pecans, nuts, peanuts, cashews and snack mixes, along with other Southern specialties like jams, jellies, chutneys, barbecue sauces, relishes and more.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

JUMP-STARTING ENTREPRENEURIAL VISIONS

aldosta has long been one of Georgia’s most entrepreneurfriendly cities. Former governor Sonny Perdue designated Metro Valdosta as Georgia’s first “Entrepreneur-Friendly Community” in 2004. The honor was in recognition of Valdosta’s commitment to supporting new business ventures and the Chamber’s investment in the resources new businesses need to be successful. The Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce, the state of Georgia, and the Small Business Development Center at Valdosta State University work together with other state and local organizations to help foster a pro-business environment and provide the resources startup businesses need to be successful. “No mission is more important for the Chamber than entrepreneur and small business development,” emphasized Chamber President Myrna Ballard. “Our SEEDS Business Resource Center serves approximately 500 clients each year, providing high-tech and high-touch services to help entrepreneurs start and grow successful businesses in our community.” The Southwest Georgia Bank Business Plan Competition is a Chamber-sponsored program that provides a $10,000 cash prize to one new business every year. The months leading up to the competition include workshops, classes and coaching sessions that help the participants develop a business plan. The annual competition has helped many entrepreneurs take their ideas from dreams to reality. Previous winners, including Azalea Health, Innovate Engineering

BY AMANDA KNOLES

Solutions, Fowler & Company, and i2o Technologies, have thrived in Valdosta’s business-friendly environment. “The Valdosta Chamber is an incredible resource for new and existing business,” noted Donnee Upson of i2o Technologies, the 2012 Business Plan Competition Winner. “For my business they provided startup money through their annual business plan competition and they offered small-business training classes and networking events to give more exposure to my business. I am a proud member of our local Chamber and appreciate all they have done to help my business grow.” The following resources offer assistance to startup businesses.

SEEDS CENTER

www.seedsbusinessresourcecenter.com Conveniently located at 416. N. Ashley Street in the ValdostaLowndes County Chamber of Commerce offices, the SEEDS Center provides a wealth of information for would-be entrepreneurs, startup businesses, existing businesses and individuals seeking assistance with industry profiles, custom market data, demographic reports, targeted sales leads, competitor information and much more. (SEEDS is an acronym for Sowing Entrepreneur and Economic Development Success.) All services are free regardless of Chamber membership.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

“THE SEEDS CENTER HAS BEEN AN INVALUABLE RESOURCE FOR MY BUSINESS. FROM DEMOGRAPHICS TO INDUSTRY DATA, THE CENTER CAN PROVIDE CRUCIAL INFORMATION AND KEY ASSISTANCE TO NEW OR EXISTING BUSINESSES.” — ALAN SUTTON, MAI, ALAN SUTTON COMPANY, INC. WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

Exceeding Expections By Design®

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

R. Bryan Almand of Almand & Company relies on demographic data from the SEEDS Center. “The SEEDS Center has been very valuable to me in providing demographic information that can be targeted to the needs of a specific appraisal assignment,” he said. “Appraisers use demographic data regularly in their appraisal reports. Population, households and buying power are factors that affect demand, and real estate is developed as a response to demand. Appraisers use demographic data as an aid in analyzing population characteristics that affect the demand for various goods and services.” Carla Penny of Classic Art & Frame Company has found the SEEDS Center’s demographic information vital for marketing and business planning. “At the SEEDS Center, all the information an entrepreneur could need and then some is available for free, and the director is knowledgeable and helpful as well,” she remarked. The SEEDS Center serves Lowndes, Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Echols, Lanier, Turner and Worth counties.

“THE SEEDS BUSINESS RESOURCE CENTER WAS KEY TO MY RESEARCH IN STARTING MY BUSINESS. THE DATA THEY PROVIDED WAS UP-TO-DATE AND EXTREMELY USEFUL IN PLANNING AND PROJECTIONS.” — BILL KENT, P.E., INNOVATE ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS, LLC AND 2010 BUSINESS PLAN COMPETITION WINNER

SPECIAL OMBUDSMAN RESPONSE TEAM (SORT)

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.valdostachamber.com/sort

The Special Ombudsman Response Team (SORT) was established by the Chamber to enhance the pro-business environment in Valdosta-Lowndes County. The SORT Team assists business owners who encounter problems in the business startup or expansion process. Acting as a supervisory body for businesses and local government agencies, SORT identifies obstacles in business development and helps facilitate mutually beneficial resolutions. Through meetings with local businesses and government leaders and through an extensive survey process, SORT has identified major pro-business priorities in the business development process and is working with local government organizations to address these issues. The long-term goal is to make approval of projects less burdensome; improve customer service; provide consistent information and enforcement of codes, rules and ordinances; and offer more assistance and alternatives to business owners who encounter difficulties.

INVEST GEORGIA FUND investgeorgia.org In April 2013 Governor Nathan Deal signed House Bill 318, which created the Invest Georgia Fund. The $100 million fund is a state-based pool that will invest in Georgia companies over a five-year period from 2014 to 2018. A seven-person Invest Georgia Board

“TOO OFTEN, GREAT BUSINESS IDEAS THAT WERE DEVELOPED IN GEORGIA HAVE BEEN RECRUITED AWAY BY INVESTORS IN OTHER STATES.... INVEST GEORGIA WILL PROVIDE THE CAPITAL RESOURCES NEEDED TO KEEP THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THESE IDEAS AND INNOVATIONS IN OUR STATE.” — GEORGIA STATE SENATOR TIM GOLDEN

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

appointed by the governor and house speaker oversees the program with an independent fund administrator. “Too often, great business ideas that were developed in Georgia have been recruited away by investors in other states,” explained Georgia State Senator Tim Golden. “Invest Georgia will provide the capital resources needed to keep the implementation of these ideas and innovations in our state. Technology, health care, agribusiness, energy and advanced manufacturing are among the many enterprise sectors that could benefit from startup funding. I am proud to have sponsored and helped pass the legislation creating Invest Georgia, which will lead to new jobs created by businesses staying here.” The new source of venture capital will help Valdosta and Georgia retain knowledge-based business startups that might otherwise move to other states, noted Chamber President Myrna Ballard. “Valdosta (and Georgia) have done a great job of incubating startup knowledge businesses, but when they are ready for second-stage growth, we haven’t been able to provide that next layer of capital needed to expand. Invest Georgia can provide that needed capital.”

SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER AT VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY w w w.valdosta.edu/colleges/business/ small-business-development-center/ Valdosta State University’s Small Business Development Center is an important resource for entrepreneurs. Working with consultants who have advanced education combined with practical experience, participants receive help with a wide array of topics, from writing a business plan to applying for a loan, marketing their product or services, and more. The SBDC offers free and confidential consulting services to existing business owners and entrepreneurs who are in the latter stages of planning their business. Those just beginning a business plan are encouraged to attend Starting A Business training courses held once a month. The classes cover business feasibility, financing, operating legally, building a team and pulling it all together. Participants also learn about

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

setting realistic financial goals and why businesses fail. According to Stan Crance, program coordinator, the course is beneficial to anyone considering starting their own business, as it provides an overview of what it really takes to get a startup off the ground. “If you are a new or existing business the SBDC is a free resource that I think every business should use. They have access to a wealth of information to start or grow your business,” remarked Donnee Upson, founder of i2o Technologies. “For my business they sponsored the Grow Smart program, which provided insight on how to grow my business and avoid many pitfalls in the process. I enjoy my partnership with them and appreciate all they have done to help start and grow my business.” “While preparing my business plan, I found the Small Business Development Center to be very helpful in providing expert guidance and assistance,” said Bill Kent of Innovate Engineering Solutions, the 2010 Business Plan Competition Winner. “With their help, my business plan stood above all others.”

“AS A PAST WINNER OF THE BUSINESS PLAN COMPETITION I HAVE BENEFITED GREATLY FROM THE SERVICES OF THE SEEDS CENTER AND THE SBDC. AS MY BUSINESS HAS CONTINUED TO GROW I FIND THEM BOTH TO BE INVALUABLE RESOURCES.” — CURT FOWLER, PRESIDENT OF FOWLER & COMPANY AND 2011 BUSINESS PLAN COMPETITION WINNER

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INFRASTRUCTURE FOR INDUSTRY

BUILDING A GROUND-BREAKING COMMUNITY

T VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

he Valdosta-Lowndes Industrial Authority is a partnership of the city and county that strives to attract new businesses, foster expansion of existing industries, and promote job creation and capital investment. The Industrial Authority’s new marketing campaign, Building A Ground-Breaking Community, is designed to attract more new companies by promoting the region’s many strengths to target industries, including advanced manufacturing, value-added agriculture and food processing, green technology and alternative energy, and warehousing and distribution. A skilled manufacturing workforce, availability of building space and a strategic location are a few of the reasons advanced manufacturing companies are choosing to relocate to Valdosta.

BY AMANDA KNOLES

STRATEGIC LOCATION Valdosta-Lowndes County’s strategic location halfway between Atlanta and Orlando, with convenient access to two interstates — I-75 and I-10 — has made it an increasingly important logistics center, boasting efficient transport of goods and services by truck and an intermodal network including air, rail and port facilities. The logistics industry employs more than 1,400 people in Lowndes County alone. Lowndes County is home to seven dedicated warehousing and distribution facilities. The largest is Lowe’s, spanning 1.2 million square feet. Home Depot and Dillard’s also take advantage of this prime location for shipping their products to customers around the nation and the world.

SKILLED WORKFORCE

GROWING AND GREEN SECTORS

Employers relocating to Lowndes County have access to a highly trained workforce. Educational and training programs at local colleges and universities include advanced manufacturing technology and industrial safety training courses, as well as specialized job training programs designed to prepare graduates for employment in growing industries.

Value-added agriculture and food processing leaders like South Georgia Pecan, Sunset Farms and CJB Industries are located in Lowndes County. South Georgia Pecan is the second-largest pecan-shelling company in the United States, shelling at least 160,000 pounds of pecans a day to supply food manufacturers such as Nestlé, Russell Stover and retail warehouses with almonds, cashews, pistachios and walnuts. Green technology and alternative energy are also two fast-growing sectors of the regional economy. Langdale Industries is committed to improving the environment. Since the 1930s the company has planted more trees than it harvests through its forest products division. Langdale also opened the first compressed natural gas (CNG) station in South Georgia through a partnership with Atlanta Gas Light (CNG is a cleaner fuel and emits up to 90 percent fewer emissions than gasoline).

SPACE TO BUILD Offering three new Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development shovel-ready business parks, Valdosta-Lowndes County has the infrastructure in place to accommodate almost any industry. Each park features its own unique amenities, along with convenient proximity to rail service and interstate highways. Steeda Autosports opened its facility at Bassford Business Park in 2008. The company engineers and manufactures performance and appearance products for Ford automobiles including the Mustang, Fusion and Edge.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

229-259-9972 • buildlowndes.com

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

VALDOSTA REGIONAL AIRPORT Valdosta Regional Airport is located just 2.5 miles south of the Valdosta central business district. It features three runways with two that may be used by commercial aircraft. The airport’s longest runway is 8,002 feet long — the third-longest in the state. Jim Galloway, Valdosta-Lowndes County Airport Authority executive director, says the long runway makes it possible for the airport to accommodate virtually any type of aircraft. The airport offers three arrivals and three departures daily through its Delta Connection to Atlanta. Since Atlanta is a major airline hub, travelers have convenient access to both domestic and international destinations. Valdosta Regional Airport is also used by units from Moody Air Force Base performing tactical exercises. In recent years the airport built six new corporate hangars to accommodate increasing growth and added new hangars for smaller aircraft. “In the past year we welcomed three new businesses, and we are very excited about

BY AMANDA KNOLES

the future of the airport,” Galloway said. “Because of the infrastructure improvements we have already made we can handle increased passenger traffic and an increase in business travel from new companies relocating here.” A new fire station opened in 2014. The $3 million project — with over 90 percent of the funding coming from federal and state grants — is located on the east side of the airport and includes upgraded equipment, a new fire truck and separate rooms for training, first aid and decontamination. The architectural style of the new station will serve as a model for future airport improvements, Galloway noted. “Our next priority is a new electrical vault. It will provide a backup generator so the airport will have runway and emergency lights in a power failure at night. We’re also looking at installing a larger airline ramp that will enhance safety.”

Amenities at the Valdosta Regional Airport include a Subway eatery in the passenger terminal and an outdoor observation space with a picnic area. Valdosta Flying Service offers flight instruction, aircraft rental, a crew car and pilot lounge, wireless Internet, rental cars, hotel/catering assistance, and WSI and computerized flight planning. FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.flyvaldosta.com

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

BY THE NUMBERS: DEMOGRAPHICS P O P U L AT I O N

HOUSING

Valdosta Lowndes County 2010................................................... 54,518.............................. 109,223 2012................................................... 57,596.............................. 114,552 Increase 2000-2012 .............................. 31.7%...................................24.4% Persons under 5 years, percent................ 7.7%*................................. 7.3%** Persons under 18 years, percent.............. 22.8%*.............................. 23.7%** Persons 65 years and over, percent......... 10.1%*.............................. 10.1%**

Average list price.................................................................$220,250 Median home price..............................................................$108,400 Homeownership rate, 2007-2011................................................ 58.3% Housing units in multi-unit structures, percent, 2007–2011.............. 19.7%

*2010 figures **2012 figures

Lowndes County’s overall retail pull factor is 2.17, which means that for every dollar spent, $1.17 is being spent by a non-resident. Lowndes County’s retail pull factor is more than twice the Georgia average. Lowndes County.......................................................................... 2.17 Georgia Total.............................................................................. 1.00 Average County in Georgia.......................................................... 0.87

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

QUALITY OF LIFE

Valdosta-Lowndes County

Average commute.........................................................................19 minutes January low temperature....................................................................... 38°F July temperature................................................................................... 92°F Sunny days per year.............................................................................. 231 Precipitation per year..............................................................................51” Source: SEEDS Business Resource Center

E D U C AT I O N A L AT TA I N M E N T

Population 25 Years & Older

Valdosta Lowndes County High school grad or higher, 2007–2011..... 82.0%.................................83.6% Bachelor’s degree or higher, 2007–2011.... 23.5%.................................22.4% Graduate degree or higher 2008–2010....... 9.6%....................................8.5% Source: U.S. Census Bureau

EMPLOYMENT

Lowndes County

August 2013 Civilian labor force........................................................................... 52,855 Employed........................................................................................ 48,575 Unemployment rate...............................................................................8.1% Source: Georgia Department of Labor

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

INCOME Average household income.............................................................. $54,735 Median household income............................................................... $40,582 Per capita income........................................................................... $23,285 Avergage Annual Wage - Lowndes County*...................................... $31,772

R E TA I L P U L L FA C T O R

Source: 2010 Georgia County Guide, published by the Center of Agribusiness and Economic Development at the University of Georgia

COST OF LIVING

Valdosta Metro

Composite.................................................................................. 93.5 Groceries................................................................................... 94.6 Housing..................................................................................... 83.5 Utilities......................................................................................113.8 Transportation............................................................................. 98.2 Health care................................................................................ 93.9 Miscellaneous............................................................................. 93.1 U.S. average for all indices is 100. Source: Council for Community and Economic Research, Cost of Living Index, 3Q2013

R E C R E AT I O N & T O U R I S M Hotel rooms...............................................................................4,009 Restaurants.................................................................................. 195 Boat Launches.................................................................................. 4 Golf courses.................................................................................... 4 Country clubs................................................................................... 4 State parks............................................ Reed Bingham (40 miles north) Public rivers..................................................................................... 3 Shopping V aldosta Mall, Lake Park Malls, Summit Point Downtown Valdosta, Sugar Creek Plaza & Remerton Village Movie theaters................................................................................. 2 Amusement park............................................................................... 1 Sources: Valdosta-Lowndes County Tourism and Georgia Tourism

Source: SEEDS Business Resource Center; *Georgia Department of Labor

P R O P E R T Y TA X E S

Millage Rates

A tax rate of one mill represents a tax liability of $1.00 per $1,000 of assessed value. The average county and municipal millage rate is 30 mills; the state millage rate in each county is 0.25 mills. State................................................................................................. 0.250 Lowndes County................................................................................. 7.310 Recreation (countywide)...................................................................... 1.000 Valdosta............................................................................................ 4.112 Downtown......................................................................................... 5.000 Dasher............................................................................................ 12.180 Hahira.............................................................................................. 5.380 Lake Park.......................................................................................... 4.703 Remerton........................................................................................... 6.387 Schools Lowndes County Schools.................................................................. 14.70 Valdosta City Schools...................................................................... 16.98 Source: Georgia Department of Revenue

Sources: Coldwell Banker; Forbes, US Census Bureau

I N D U S T RY E M P L O Y M E N T D I S T R I B U T I O N

Lowndes County, 1Q2013

Establishments Employees Health Care and Social Assistance ................368......................... 7,965 Retail Trade (44 & 45) .................................489......................... 7,516 Accommodation / Food Services ...................266......................... 5,656 Education Service .........................................39.......................... 5,036 Manufacturing (31-33) .................................111......................... 3,525 Administration / Support ..............................180......................... 2,747 Public Administration ....................................47.......................... 2,671 Construction ...............................................258......................... 1,956 Information ..................................................34.......................... 1,329 Transportation / Warehousing (48 & 49) ........78.......................... 1,239 Source: Georgia Department of Labor

New Hire Solutions has been committed to providing personalized services to Valdosta, Thomasville and surrounding areas. We provide professional assistance and support to the clients and applicants we serve. New Hire Solutions strives to ensure that your business with us is handled in a professional manner. Our success and growth is a direct result of our excellent customer service to the community.

“We know what it’s like to be short handed!”

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

DOWNTOWN VALDOSTA VIBE

COLLEGE-TOWN ENERGY FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

he Valdosta Main Street Program enhances downtown’s position as the governmental, cultural and economic center of Greater Lowndes through the involvement of businesses, property owners, government, churches and residents. Thanks to a $12 million investment in downtown improvements and through the city’s continuing efforts to promote the Main Street revitalization program, downtown Valdosta has evolved into a popular destination drawing young professionals to its trendy boutiques, college students to its coffee shops and live music events, and people of all ages to its art galleries, theatre productions, restaurants and regularly scheduled activities. According to Main Street Manager Amanda Peacock, the downtown renaissance began with the streetscape project in the mid ’90s and

has continued with extensive rehabilitation projects that have brought new businesses, restaurants and residences to the heart of the city. Using the National Main Street four-point approach, focusing on promotion, economic restructuring, design and organization, has helped the city achieve a balanced revitalization effort. “We don’t want to expand at the expense of historic preservation, and we want the downtown area to have a mix of stores, restaurants and events that make it appealing to local residents, business professionals, students and visitors,” Peacock said. Valdosta Main Street encourages residents and investors to live, work, shop, play and invest in the downtown district. In addition to fostering the restoration of buildings, the Main Street program encourages current business owners to create appealing promotions and to participate in regular downtown events that help build customer traffic and loyalty.

RENAISSANCE SUCCESS STORIES

Once-vacant storefronts and rundown buildings have been replaced with specialty

BY AMANDA KNOLES

boutiques, restaurants, offices and residential spaces: • Originally built in the 1880s, the Roberts Building, restored after being vacant for 40 years, now houses retailers and offices on the first floor, while the second and third floors feature spacious loft apartments. After a two-year restoration project it reopened with an attractive blend of retro details and modern design. • Currently under renovation, the historic Cranford Building will feature 11 loft apartments and three commercial spaces. Many of the apartments downtown feature 11- to 14-foot ceilings, hardwood floors and brick walls combined with modern amenities like high-end appliances and custom tiled bathrooms. • Valdosta Shared Office Space, in the historic Wisenbaker Building, provides flexible office space with shared reception and support services. The historic structure is an example of an older building that has undergone a green renovation. South Georgia Solar took on the task of installing solar equipment to increase energy efficiency. • In 2011 CJB Industries purchased a vacant 1890s building downtown to renovate for its corporate headquarters. For its efforts to retain as much of the historic architectural

DOWNTOWN VALDOSTA VIBE

elements as possible, the company received the 2012 Outstanding Achievement Award from the Valdosta Heritage Foundation. • Azalea Health is a health care software development company that chose to locate in downtown Valdosta at a much lower cost than the company would have paid in Atlanta or the Silicon Valley. The 2008 winner of the Chamber’s Annual Business Plan Competition began operations at the Shared Office Space building and now occupies two floors at 105 West Central Avenue. The mix of commercial and residential spaces downtown continues to evolve as developers convert buildings to new apartments, lofts, mixed-use developments and office buildings. The city of Valdosta and the Main Street team are committed to converting unused and underused commercial spaces into productive properties that can help boost the economy and add to the ambience of the downtown district.

Valdosta offers a variety of incentive programs for redevelopment projects downtown. The Main Street office can provide information on downtown revolving loan programs, historic preservation tax incentive programs, and other resources available to current and future downtown property and business owners. Downtown Valdosta has managed to retain its friendly Southern charm while forging ahead with ambitious redevelopment plans for the future. The ever-expanding downtown area offers convenient access to city and county government offices, live theater productions, art galleries, restaurants, salon services, clothing shops, antiques, jewelry, fine gifts, and much more.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

229-259-3577 • www.valdostamainstreet.com

DOWNTOWN VALDOSTA EVENTS Events in Valdosta’s downtown area bring residents from throughout the county together, enhancing commerce and quality of life in the community. First Fridays originated as a way to draw attention to the newly revitalized downtown, but it has grown to become one of the most popular events in the county. On the first Friday of every month, downtown businesses stay open late and offer shoppers a chance to enjoy live entertainment from local and visiting musicians, book signings, art exhibits, refreshments, special sales, contests, and a chance to socialize with their neighbors. According to organizers, over 1,000 people take part in the event each month. The Brown Bag Lunch Concert Series held in May presents a different band each day performing live music from 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. on the Lowndes County Courthouse lawn. Featuring a variety of music styles, from rock and country to folk, blues and jazz, the concerts are sponsored by local businesses, the city of Valdosta and the Valdosta-Lowndes County Parks and Recreation Department. Concerts are free and participants may buy lunch and beverages from a variety of downtown restaurant booths. Art After Dark is similar to First Fridays except the emphasis is on visual arts instead of music, and the event is held on the third Friday of each month. The concept for the art event grew out of art exhibits that were included in a few First Friday events; the positive reaction led local artists to begin gathering sponsors for a separate event of their own.

Valdosta Main Street also promotes the popular Greater Valdosta Community Christmas Parade. Organizations in the city create floats using unique themes, and the parade winds through downtown, featuring holiday music, marching bands, fun characters and, of course, Santa.

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

Farm Days takes place every first and third Saturday around historic Courthouse Square. With hours from 9 a.m.–1 p.m., the seasonal event is held April–October and features a bounty of fresh-grown fruits and vegetables, plus local vendors selling arts, crafts and other locally produced products.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

SOUTH GEORGIA MEDICAL CENTER

BY SGMC STAFF

https://sgmc.org

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

outh Georgia Medical Center is the Region’s Premier Health System and destination for medical care. The 393-bed health system operates four hospitals — South Georgia Medical Center, the SGMC Smith Northview Campus, Louis Smith Memorial Hospital (Lakeland, Ga.) and the SGMC Berrien Campus (Nashville, Ga.) — and manages Clinch Memorial Hospital (Homerville, Ga.). These facilities serve a diverse and aging population with a wide variety of inpatient and outpatient needs. Governed by the Hospital Authority of Valdosta and Lowndes County, Georgia, South Georgia Medical Center’s (SGMC) mission is to be the leader in im-

proving the health, wellness and quality of life for citizens in the communities it serves.

OUR FACILITIES • SGMC Smith Northview Campus – A 45-bed hospital, located near I-75 (Exit 22) at 4280 North Valdosta Road. The Joint Commission accredited hospital offers a small, yet progressive and patient-friendly environment. • SGMC Berrien Campus – A 63-bed acute care hospital in Nashville, Ga. Its affiliates include SGMC Berrien Family Medicine, SGMC Dogwood Senior Health Center and

WE ARE AWARD WINNING 2013 GEORGIA ALLIANCE OF COMMUNITY HOSPITALS’ LARGE HOSPITAL OF THE YEAR – A statewide recognition of health care services and quality rooted in the organizations dedication to meet the everchanging need of its patients.

the SGMC Berrien Multi-Specialty Care Center. • Louis Smith Memorial Hospital – A 25-bed critical access hospital in Lakeland, Ga., recognized for its quality and patient safety programs. The Lakeland Family Care Center, an affiliated primary care clinic, serves a variety of walk-in medical needs. • Clinch Memorial Hospital – A 25-bed critical access hospital in Homerville, Ga., managed by SGMC. The hospital also partners with Valcourt Family Care to offer primary care services.

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2013 MEMBER’S CHOICE AWARD RECIPIENT Each year, the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce honors a business that shows dedication to quality, customer/ client services and courtesy within the community. In 2013, South Georgia Medical Center was humbled to be voted the 2013 Member’s Choice Award recipient.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

SPINE CARE CENTER – SGMC and its Smith Northview Hospital Campus’ spine care program was ranked No. 1 in Georgia and in the Top 10 nationally by Healthgrades.com. The program is also recognized with Blue Distinction from Blue Cross/Blue Shield.

STROKE PROGRAM - SGMC operates the most award-winning stroke program south of Macon, including the American Heart & Stroke Association’s Bronze and Silver Achievement Awards with the Target Stroke Honor Roll, the Georgia Coverdell’s Stroke Registry Hospital of the Year Award, and Coverdell’s Award of Excellence for Door-to-Needle Time.

CARDIO-PULMONARY RESUSCITATION – SGMC is one of two Georgia hospitals awarded the American Heart & Stroke Association’s Resuscitation Bronze Award for successful in-hospital resuscitation of Code Blues.

OTHER SGMC SERVICE LINES

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

Dasher Memorial Heart Center – Housed in the new $64 million patient tower, the DMHC offers a complete range of cardiac diagnostics, including three digital cath labs, open heart surgery, cardiac intensive care and cardiac progressive care. Hospice of South Georgia and Langdale Hospice House – SGMC operates the Langdale Hospice House, the only 16-bed, inpatient hospice facility in the region. Hospice provides home care and residential care for those with limited life expectancy. Pearlman Cancer Center – Newly expanded for convenience and equipped with state-of-the art technology, the Pearlman Cancer Center offers all modalities for cancer treatment in one location. Providing world-class cancer care in a community setting, the Survivorship Program/Survivorship Kit developed at the PCC is recognized by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons as a best practice guide for other community cancer programs. Women & Children’s Services/Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine – More than 2,000 infants annually are born at The Birthplace at SGMC and the Eanes Birthing Center at the SGMC Smith Northview Campus. We offer a Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and full-time neonatologist at our Main Campus.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

REGIONAL SERVICE PROVIDERS HOME HEALTH SERVICES Amedisys Home Health 2947 N. Ashley Street, Suite C Valdosta, GA 31602-1712 229-245-0646 www.amedisys.com

Comfort Keepers 3470 North Valdosta Road F-2 Valdosta, GA 31602 229-241-000 www.comfortkeepers.com

CuraCare Health Services 3169 Inner Perimeter Road Valdosta, GA 31602 229-253-124 www.curacare.com

Easter Seals Southern Georgia, Inc.

610 N. Patterson Street, Suite A Valdosta, GA 31601-4650 229-247-6912 southerngeorgia. easterseals.com

Georgia Home Health 3404 Greystone Way Valdosta, GA 31603 229-247-4663

Home Instead Senior Care

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

3020 N. Patterson Street Valdosta, GA 31602 229-244-8854 www.rescare.com

SunCrest Home Health

UniHealth Source of Valdosta

Holly Hill Healthcare

312 Canna Drive Valdosta, GA 31602 229-241-8750 www.uhs-pruitt.com

413 Pendleton Place Valdosta, GA 31602 229-244-6968 www.uhs-pruitt.com

United Hospice, Inc.

Lakehaven Health & Rehab

1811 Suite A Green Circle Valdosta, GA 31602 229-896-8177 www.suncresthealth.com

407 Cowart Avenue Valdosta, GA 31602 229-242-1187 www.uhs-pruitt.com

HOSPICES

LONG-TERM NURSING CARE

Bethany Hospice

4480 Val North Drive, Suite D Valdosta, GA 31602 229-245-0123 www.homeinstead.com

2517 Bemiss Road, Suite D Valdosta, GA 31602 229-249-8687 bethany-hospice.com

Intrepid USA

Hospice of South Georgia & Langdale Hospice House

355 Northside Drive Valdosta, GA 31602 229-247-7760 www.intrepidusa.com

ResCare Home Care

2263 Pineview Drive Valdosta, GA 31602 229-249-4100

410 E. Northside Drive Valdosta, GA 31602 229-242-7368 www.uhs-pruitt.com

Lakeland Convalescent Center

Crestwood Nursing Home

888 W. Thigpen Avenue Lakeland, GA 31635 229-482-2229

415 Pendleton Place Valdosta, GA 31602 229-242-6868

Presbyterian Homes of Georgia

Heritage Health Care of Valdosta 2501 N. Ashley Street Valdosta, GA 31602 229-244-7368

1901 W. Screven Street Quitman, GA 31643 229-263-6100 www.phgainc.org

A Multi-Specialty Clinic Your Health...We take it Personally! INTERNAL MEDICINE K.G. Kumar, MD A. Timothy Brady, MD Thomas W. Hobby, DO Fredrick A. Koehler, MD Hernando Moreno, MD Lance Underwood, MD CARDIOLOGY Glenn H. Evans, MD G.E. Trey Powell, III MD Joel L. Cohen, DO GASTROENTEROLOGY James A. Sinnott, MD Edward J. Fricker, MD

3207 Country Club Drive Valdosta, Georgia 31605

www.valdostamed.com

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

242-8480 1-800-587-0777

HEALTH & WELLNESS

leading provider of cloud-based electronic records, Azalea Health offers data recording, sharing and retrieval solutions to health care practices that address every aspect of their business operations. The record-keeping systems encompass medical, financial and administration essentials, facilitating ease, convenience and efficiency in meeting the needs of the medical community. Included among the products and services are world-class means of recording scheduling, e-prescribing and charting, along with laboratory ordering and reporting. Billing, claims management and pre-authorization solutions are also offered.

A SMALL BUSINESS ROCK STAR

ROCK STAR STATUS: AZALEA HEALTH BY MARY WEST

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

“I KNOW FOR A FACT WE WOULD NOT HAVE THIS TYPE OF SUPPORT IN ATLANTA, WHERE WE WOULD BE JUST ANOTHER HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY COMPANY.”

Azalea Health is truly an inspiring example of entrepreneurial success, as it has enjoyed remarkable growth over the past five years since its startup in 2008. While the company began with three cofounders, it now has 46 employees and has even opened satellite offices in Savannah and Macon. It holds the distinction of being one of six Georgia small businesses that were honored with the “Small Business Rock Stars” award in a new joint program of the Georgia Department of Economic Development and the Georgia Economic Developers Association. The competition recognizes outstanding and impactful small businesses throughout the state. Companies with up to 50 employees were considered for uniqueness and innovation as well as involvement with their local economic developers and state resource providers. The company’s recognition has not been confined to the state of Georgia but has also extended nationally. It has been included in Inc. magazine’s list of America’s 5,000 fastest-growing private businesses, being ranked as 1,365 in the country.

ENTREPRENEURIAL DREAM RECEIVED LOCAL SUPPORT This dream was born when Azalea’s cofounders, Baha Zeidan, Dan Henry and Doug Swords, noticed a need for information technology within the health care industry. However, the dream needed funds to get off the ground and become a reality. After entering the Valdosta-Lowndes

www.texasroadhouse.com 1874 Clubhouse Drive • Valdosta, GA 31601

229-242-7700 • Hand-Cut Steaks • Award-Winning “Fall-Off-the-Bone” Ribs • Fresh-Baked Bread Served with Honey Cinnamon Butter • Made-From-Scratch Side Items and Dressings • Ice-Cold Beer & Legendary Margaritas

HEALTH & WELLNESS

TRUMPING THE COMPETITION

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County Chamber of Commerce’s business plan competition, the entrepreneurs won and received prize money, which served as leverage for a loan. Yet more help from the community was forthcoming. The founders consulted the local SEEDS Business Resource Center and the Small Business Development Center at VSU, both of which went above and beyond the call of duty to help foster the new company’s growth. “I know for a fact we would not have this type of support in Atlanta, where we would be just another health information technology company,” said Doug Swords.

A Speech, Language, & Swallowing Therapy Clinic for Every Age from Infants to Seniors

The company focused on rural areas in the beginning, but now their client list is extensive. Although they work primarily in the Southeast, they have clients from as far west as Missouri and as far north as Massachusetts. The founders like to say they have a global reach with a local touch. The company attributes their secret for trumping the competition to two factors: the ease of use inherent in the products they have developed and the superior services they provide. This user-friendly feature, together with their expansive services, has eliminated much of the red tape involved in running a doctor’s office. “Azalea has more initial set-up, training and ongoing support than 99 percent of its competition and has many unique ways for its clients to interact with and communicate with its employees,” noted Swords. “These factors have proven to be the winning formula for success.”

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

HEALTH & WELLNESS

FIT & HAPPY

BY DANA HINDERS

aldosta residents who are interested in leading a healthy lifestyle have a number of fitness and wellness resources at their disposal. Whether you’re interested in working with a personal trainer or finding fresh produce for your favorite healthy meals, Valdosta has you covered.

BREAK A SWEAT Student Recreation Center

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Valdosta State University

Valdosta State University Students, alumni and staff can work out at the Student Recreation Center. The center has 41 pieces of cardio equipment; a circuit training area; a 27-foot-tall climbing wall; a suspended four-lane indoor jogging/walking track; a weight training area; six multi-purpose courts space for basketball, volleyball or badminton; and three racquetball courts. Each member can bring two guests if desired, but all guests must be at least 17 years of age.

Valdosta YMCA 2424 Gornto Road

The Valdosta YMCA operates a 24-hour fitness center with opportunities for gymnastics, basketball, racquetball, swimming and aerobics, as well as fitness testing and personal training services. The James M. Beck Youth and Teen facility offers programs for young people who want to learn to exercise safely. The YMCA Challenger League provides opportunities for physically and mentally challenged residents to enjoy activities such as soccer, bowling and basketball throughout the year.

Factor X Fitness 1711 Norman Drive

Factor X Fitness has an 11,400-square-foot fitness center with cardio and strength training options for people of all ages. The facility offers a complimentary personal training session for each new member to demonstrate how the gym’s equipment can best benefit your personal fitness goals. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Anytime Fitness 3143 C N. Ashley Street

Anytime Fitness offers 24-hour gym service for people with nontraditional work schedules. Each member receives a unique security access key to take advantage of the facility’s cardio equipment, strength equipment, personal training, classes and tanning.

CrossFit Valdosta 4548 A. Val North Drive

Those who are looking to take their workout to the next level may want to check out CrossFit Valdosta, the third CrossFit to open in the

HEALTH & WELLNESS

state. Their Valdosta facility currently has six Level 1 coaches, as well as South Georgia’s only CrossFit Level 2 coach. They offer CrossFit OnRamp classes for those who are new to the CrossFit philosophy, as well as yoga and Olympic lifting classes designed to help members reach specific fitness goals.

EAT WELL Downtown Valdosta Farm Days 100 W. Central Avenue

From May to October, local residents can enjoy fresh, locally grown produce from the Downtown Valdosta Farm Days farmers market. The market is located around the Historic Courthouse Square at 100 West Central Avenue on the first and third Saturday of each month. Customers can pay for their purchases with cash, credit, debit or EBT.

Ma Perkins Natural Foods 2119 N. Ashley Street

On a year-round basis, Valdosta residents can find vitamins, herbs and an assortment of organic foods at Ma Perkins Natural Foods, a favorite local shopping destination for more than 40 years.

MANAGE YOUR HEALTH South Georgia Medical Center’s Community Health Promotion To improve the health of local residents, South Georgia Medical Center’s Community Health Promotion department offers free or lowcost programs, screenings, classes and support groups throughout the year. One of their more popular offerings is a twice-weekly exercise class designed to help improve range of motion and flexibility for people suffering from arthritis. SGMC also hosts a special event every May to celebrate National Seniors Health and Fitness Day, encouraging area seniors to learn more about nutrition and exercise.

206 E. Adair Street

The Wellness Center of Valdosta provides assistance for people dealing with chronic pain, diabetes, addiction, heart disease and high blood pressure. The facility focuses on multidisciplinary care, so patients may see a nutritionist, physical therapist or counselor as part of their overall treatment plan.

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

Wellness Center of Valdosta

HEALTH & WELLNESS

VSU & SGMC EXPANDING PARTNERSHIPS TO PRODUCE MORE HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BY VSU STAFF

onstruction on Valdosta State University’s Health Sciences and Business Administration (HSBA) building is nearing completion. The 140,000-square-foot, $32 million building is scheduled to open in spring 2014 and provide students with a state-of-the-art academic facility. Located on the Rea and Lillian Steele North Campus, the HSBA building will house six health sciences programs: nursing, communication sciences and disorders, athletic training, exercise physiology, social work, and health care administration. The HSBA will allow Valdosta State to enhance the delivery of current health professions programs, as well as to further develop and implement doctoral degrees in nursing and speech and language pathology.

“The Health Sciences and Business Administration building will serve as an advanced academic facility to educate Georgia’s future health care professionals,” said VSU President William J. McKinney. “It will also provide continuing education for existing practitioners — it really becomes the cornerstone of Valdosta State’s focus on comprehensive health professions programs.” Strategically positioned across the street from South Georgia Medical Center (SGMC), the HSBA will provide greater opportunities for VSU students and faculty to interact with health care professionals. “As health care becomes more complex, it is more important now than ever to make sure nursing and allied health students get a sufficient amount of clinical training time. SGMC is extremely pleased to have

the HSBA located across the street from our main campus,” said SGMC Chief Executive Officer Randy Sauls. “We rely heavily on the recruitment of VSU graduates to fill many of our nursing positions, and we welcome the opportunity for these students to be in our facility, learning our practices and protocols. This shortens the learning curve for those wanting to become full-time employees.” VSU and SGMC have a shared commitment to recruit and retain nurses to meet the growing demand within South Georgia, across the state, and beyond. SGMC provides a nursing scholarship for individuals pursuing a nursing (associate or bachelor’s) degree who have been accepted into an accredited nursing program. According to Laura Love, director of community relations

HEALTH & WELLNESS

at SGMC, the scholarship may be used for up to four semesters. “Scholarships are awarded on an application basis to those who appear to be best suited based on grades, submitted documents, financial needs and interviews,” said Love. “In return, the scholarship recipient works for SGMC for one year for every year or part of a year the tuition was funded or will arrange for repayment.” Keeping more health care professionals in South Georgia is important to SGMC and area health care agencies. This year, SGMC hired 34 nursing students from Valdosta State to help the growing regional need for health care professionals. In a 2012 Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Employment Projections (2010–2020), the registered nursing workforce will be the top U.S. occupation in terms of job growth through 2020, being expected to grow from 2.74 million nurses in 2010 to 3.45 million in 2020. Across the nation, the need for advanced educated nurses and health care workers is a growing concern. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state of Georgia ranks ninth with the most nursing job openings, based on 2010/2011 data. The HSBA building provides the academic and clinical facilities to produce more health care professionals for Georgia. A 2012 VSU alumni survey shows that of the students who graduate with degrees in nursing, communication sciences and disorders, exercise physiology, athletic training, and social work, approximately 87 percent stay in Georgia and 67 percent remain in South Georgia. The HSBA building represents the cornerstone of the university’s future in enhancing the delivery of health care programs, expanding partnerships and collaborations with SGMC and regional health care facilities, improving economic development in the region, and enriching the quality of life for South Georgia residents.

VSU PRESIDENT WILLIAM J. MCKINNEY

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

“THE HEALTH SCIENCES AND BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION BUILDING WILL SERVE AS AN ADVANCED ACADEMIC FACILITY TO EDUCATE GEORGIA’S FUTURE HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS.”

EDUCATION

K–12

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

VALDOSTA EARLY COLLEGE ACADEMY GAINS NATIONAL ATTENTION FOR HELPING STUDENTS GAIN ACADEMIC SUCCESS

aldosta State University’s Dewar College of Education and Human Services received the 2013 American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) Christa McAuliffe Excellence in Teacher Education Award. Each year, the Christa McAuliffe award honors teacher education programs at public colleges and universities across the United States that are able to demonstrate their effectiveness in producing P–12 learning outcomes and explain how they redesigned their programs as a result of these learning outcomes. In 2008, VSU’s Dewar College of Education and Human Services partnered with the Valdosta City School System to ensure that each and every child has the opportunity to realize his or her academic potential. They established the Valdosta Early College Academy (VECA) to promote a school environment focused on high achievement and mutual respect, to eliminate the achievement gap between black and white students, to integrate technology as a seamless aspect of every academic subject, and to reduce the dropout rate to zero. It was VSU’s investment in VECA that secured this year’s Christa McAuliffe award, the second for the university. “Valdosta State University’s commitment to educational innovation and community engagement are embodied in VECA,” said VSU President William J. McKinney. “VECA’s success is a clear example of VSU’s commitment to be a national leader among region-serving comprehensive universities. The collaboration between VSU and Valdosta City Schools stands as a model of positive educational reform.”

BY VSU STAFF

The VECA program was designed to improve the educational condition of students at risk for dropping out of high school. During the program’s first year, 36 sixth-grade students were admitted. Today, the school has approximately 200 students in grades six through 11, with a senior class beginning in fall 2014. VECA students are admitted based on average or below standardized assessment scores, being a first-generation high school or college attendee, low socioeconomic status, minority membership, regular school attendance, and few or no discipline referrals. “Each new class of VECA students is filled with struggling learners that regularly attend school and are not disruptive,” said Dr. Brian Gerber, interim dean of the Dewar College of Education and Human Services. “The mission of VECA is to break the cycles of low education and poverty within our region.” This year, 10 juniors from VECA began taking college classes at Valdosta State University. Often described as the Legacy Class, the students began at VECA in 2008 as sixth graders and have been preparing for their college journey for the past five years. “This group of students genuinely recognize what it means to be a legacy; when you talk to them they understand what it means to be the first to do something,” said Ingrid Hall, VECA principal. “In the first class of 23 juniors, all of them have been the first to do many, many things since coming to VECA.”

EDUCATION

VALDOSTA CITY SCHOOLS

THE DISTRICT’S NEWEST FACILITY IS PINEVALE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, www.gocats.org A NEARLY $19 MILLION FACILITY OF MORE THAN 125,000 SQUARE FEET. The Valdosta City School District offers a safe, supportive environment that nurtures teaching and learning, with a vision to prepare students to pursue infinite possibilities for the future. Strategic goals ensure all students achieve high levels of academic performance and have the opportunity to pursue activities beyond core academics to enhance relationships and connections critical to student learning. Valdosta City Schools has been recognized for excellence in academics and is famous nationally for outstanding athletics programs. The district’s newest facility is Pinevale Elementary School, a nearly $19 million facility of more than 125,000 square feet • Thirty percent of Valdosta City Schools faculty hold bachelor’s that replaces the previous Pinevale Learning degrees, 44 percent master’s degrees, 23.15 percent specialist’s Center (PLC). The building will house K–5 students who previously degrees and 3 percent doctorate degrees. attended Southeast Elementary, while PLC students will relocate to the Southeast Elementary campus. The new facility and the relocation • The pupil-to-teacher ratio in Valdosta City Schools is 21-to-1. of students will help to accommodate the continuing growth of the • A total of 14 International Baccalaureate Programme courses are offered. district’s student body. • Hundreds of students benefit from the district’s Career, Technical Valdosta City Schools: Fast Facts and Agricultural Education Program. We offer 16 pathways in nine Career Clusters. • District enrollment is the highest it has been in more than 12 years, • Twelve different Advanced Placement courses are offered, with more with over 7,900 students enrolled in five elementary schools, two than 300 students participating. middle schools, one high school, an alternate education program, • District Accreditation, as conferred by the AdvancED Accreditation and the Valdosta Early College Academy. Commission, provides Valdosta City Schools a nationally recognized mark of quality for the district schools within.

LOWNDES COUNTY SCHOOLS www.lowndes.k12.ga.us

Lowndes County Schools serves under the guiding mission of “Working together to teach students in a safe, orderly, and challenging environment, inspiring them to learn and excel.” In a constant state of evaluation and improvement, the district’s motto is “Excellence Every Day.” Lowndes County Schools are well known for academic, athletic and extracurricular excellence, as well as strong community involvement through community service. The students of Mrs. Sara Wilder’s 2012–13 class at Dewar Elementary are published authors. Their book, Our Adventures in History, was a winner in Studentreasures Publishing’s National Book Challenge.

Lowndes County Schools: Fast Facts

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

• The Lowndes County School District includes seven elementary schools, three middle schools, one high school and a psycho-ed center serving four school districts. Facilities cover 1.6 million square feet on 676 acres in Lowndes County. • All schools are accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). • The most recent class of 610 graduates was awarded $12 million in scholarships and included 240 honor graduates. • Lowndes High School boasts regional, state and national winners in Athletics, Band, Technology, Robotics, Agriculture, Healthcare Science, Automotive Technology, and Business and Computer Science. • Lowndes County Schools is the fourth-largest employer in the county, with 1,400 employees. • The district’s annual budget of $97 million is met through local, state and federal funds. • One hundred fifty-seven buses travel 7,500 miles throughout the county every school day. • School nutrition staff serve more than 10,000 meals per day. • Facility improvements are funded through SPLOST (Georgia’s special-purpose local-option sales tax), with SPLOST IV currently in place. SPLOST III generated $61 million, with 60 percent of funding coming from visitors to Lowndes County.

EDUCATION

VALWOOD SCHOOL www.valwood.org

Valwood is an independent college-preparatory school located in Valdosta. The school enrolls students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, and their academic program is based on the teaching and mastery of the foundational skills necessary for academic and personal success in college. Valwood graduates earn admission to some of the finest colleges and universities in the country.

Valwood School: Fast Facts • Fourteen Valwood students were named 2013 AP Scholars by the College Board in recognition of their exceptional achievement on the college-level Advanced Placement Examinations. • Offering state-of-the-art athletic facilities, with 14 different competitive sports available to students in grades eight through 12, with 96 percent student participation. Achievements in 2012–13 include State Football Champion, girls’ tennis region runner up, first place region boys’ basketball and golf. • Fourteeen co-curricular activities, including Chorus, Strings, Visual Arts, Drama. • College Acceptance Rate: 100 percent. • Memberships: Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS), National Assocation of Independent Schools (NAIS), Georgia Independent School Association (GISA), College Board Advanced Placement Program.

GEORGIA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL www.georgiachristian.org

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Crossing Jordan Christian Academy

1401 Cypress Street, Valdosta 229-249-9761

Genesis Christian School

Georgia Christian School is unique in many ways. Located on 36 acres of land with large oak trees and historic buildings, one can feel the sense of tradition. Academically, Georgia Christian has the ability to meet the needs of a diverse student population. Former students have gone on to careers such as small business owners, engineers, veterinarians, nurses, teachers and other great professions. Being a smaller Christian school helps to foster a sense of community, where teachers and students can build a rapport that is often lost in larger public school systems. Many of our student athletes participate in more than one sport, such as football, basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, golf and others. Through academics, daily chapel, sports, chorus, various clubs, service projects and other activities, our students learn to work together. Most importantly, GCS is a school based on Christian principles found in the Bible. Students attend Bible class and chapel every day. They are taught by Christian teachers and coached by Christian coaches. At GCS, we desire to create a Christ-centered atmosphere that encourages students to develop their own faith. After all, this is the reason Georgia Christian School was started back in 1914 — to provide Christian education.

MORE EDUCATIONAL OPTIONS FOR FAMILIES

Dr. Marsha Holloway O RT H O D O N T I S T

305 N. Ann Street, Nashville 229-599-0086

Highland Christian Academy

2206 E. Hill Avenue, Valdosta 229-245-8111 • hcavaldosta.org

Jackson Heights Learning Center 3737 Inner Perimeter Road, Valdosta 229-244-4420

Kuddles & Huggs Learning Academy

4114 Aslan Lane, Valdosta 229-671-4949

Lighthouse Christian School 4565 Bemiss Road, Valdosta 229-244-8436

Oakwood School

426 Murray Road, Valdosta 229-244-8010

Open Bible Christian School

3992 N. Oak Street Ext., Valdosta 229-244-6694

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Open Bible Christian School offers classes for all grades K3 thru 12. We are accredited by the Georgia Association of Christian Schools. Phone - (229) 244-6694 • Fax - (229) 244-1687 3992 N. Oak St. Ext. • Valdosta, GA 31605 www.openbiblechristianschool.org

EDUCATION

WIREGRASS GEORGIA TECHNICAL COLLEGE BY WIREGRASS GEORGIA TECHNICAL COLLEGE STAFF

secondary schools to technical colleges and to the colleges and universities within the University System of Georgia. The college is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. In addition to academic programs, the college provides adult education and economic development services. The Wiregrass Georgia Technical College Adult Education Department served 2,676 students in adult education programs such as GED® preparation classes, English as a Second Language and adult education basic skills classes during fiscal year 2012. During fiscal year 2012, 874 students received their GED® diploma. The Department of Economic Development provided customized training classes to 59 companies, totaling 10,028 hours of training. A total of 4,247 students took continuing education courses through the Department of Economic Development, totaling 11,378 hours. The combination of academic programs, adult education services and continuing education provided through Economic Development means that Wiregrass Georgia Technical College touches the lives of more than 10,000 students annually. Wiregrass Georgia Technical College is building futures, one student at a time, in the heart of Georgia’s wiregrass region.

Wiregrass Georgia Technical College: Fast Facts www.wiregrass.edu | 229-333-2100

• Established in 1963 as Valdosta Area Technical School. • Named “Fastest-Growing Community/Technical College in the Nation” in 2009. • Merged on July 1, 2010, with East Central Technical College to become Wiregrass Georgia Technical College. • Named first-ever “Georgia Technical College of the Year,” 2010–2011. • Annual enrollment unduplicated for 2012–2013 academic year = 6,148. • In-field job placement: 85.2 percent; total job placement: 99.2 percent. • Four campuses: Ben Hill-Irwin Campus, Coffee County Campus, Cook County Workforce Development Center, Valdosta Campus. • Programs: 31 associate degrees, 42 diploma programs, 61 technical certificates of credit.

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

stablished in 1963 as a workforce training facility in Valdosta, Wiregrass Georgia Technical College now serves 11 counties in South Georgia with four primary campuses — Ben Hill-Irwin campus, Coffee campus, Cook County Workforce Development Center and the Valdosta campus — as well an extended campus located on Moody Air Force Base. The college provides Adult Education services in each of the 11 counties served by the college: Atkinson, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brooks, Coffee, Cook, Echols, Irwin, Lanier, Lowndes and Wilcox. Dr. Tina K. Anderson became the president of Wiregrass on July 1, 2013, after serving as the president of Moultrie Technical College for 10 years. Anderson had previously served as interim president of Valdosta Technical College (Wiregrass) in 2006 for six months. “My husband and I love this area, and we were happy to consider returning to Valdosta,” Anderson said. Recognized for achievements in workforce development, Wiregrass provides individuals with the education, training and skills to positively influence a stagnant economy. “Our mission is defined as promoting community, educational and economic development by providing a highly trained workforce for South Central Georgia,” stated Anderson. “I love our mission of workforce development. It makes it clear why we exist, and I hope that area businesses will turn to us when they are in need of workforce training or new hires.” Dr. Anderson stated “the priorities for my first year as president of Wiregrass are to increase enrollment, graduation rates and retention rates.” Wiregrass offers more than 107 academic programs in the areas of Health Care, Business and Computer Sciences, Professional Services, and Industrial and Technical trades. The college has recently added several new programs, including associate degrees in Paralegal Studies, Commercial Construction Management, and Electrical and Computer Engineering. The college began an Associate of Science in Nursing program in January 2014. Wiregrass is a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia. Programs use cutting-edge technology and offer easy access to lifelong learning for all Georgians. A seamless education process provides students an opportunity to transfer credits efficiently as they advance from

EDUCATION

WHAT’S NEW AT VSU? SOUTHERN CHARM, FORWARD THINKING CREATES A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES AT VSU BY VSU STAFF

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

aldosta State University offers the best of both worlds — the extensive academic, cultural and social opportunities of a major university and the small classes and close personal attention found at smaller institutions. Students are attracted to the closeknit community where learning occurs in a supportive environment and faculty members challenge each student’s potential. VSU has a legacy as a major provider of education services for South Georgia. As a comprehensive university, it focuses on the long-term, total educational experience, providing a variety of catalysts for student growth in all areas of life. Study-abroad and exchange opportunities at institutions around the world give students exceptional opportunities for learning. Closer to campus, VSU offers internships and experiential learning opportunities to expand students’ horizons.

LEARNING INSIDE AND OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM Outside the academic setting, campus organizations encourage leadership, social interaction, recreation, cultural and religious development, and community service. The College of the Arts offers a wide variety of performances and exhibits throughout the year, while championship Blazer athletics and a vibrant social scene round out a true college experience. Recognized for its vision in creating a leading-edge living and learning environment, VSU continues an extensive transformation of its campus. The Hopper Hall replacement reopened fall semester 2008 with suite-style living for freshmen. Several other state-of-the-art facilities will follow; each will be designed to serve the needs of a growing student enrollment. Hard-working students enjoy private study rooms, new computer labs and an Internet café in Odum Library and re-energize at name-brand campus eateries such as Moe’s Southwest Grill, Chick-fil-A and Einstein

Bros. Bagels. The Student Recreation Center boasts a two-story climbing wall, an Olympic-sized indoor pool and an expansive weight room, all perfect ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Located equal distance from Atlanta and Orlando, the Valdosta State University campus boasts beautiful Spanish Mission architecture nestled among pines and palms. Its campus lies at the heart of metropolitan Valdosta, a city with true Southern charm and forwardthinking leadership. VSU challenges students with the opportunities and experiences necessary for personal success, while always providing true Southern hospitality.

FACULTY EXCELLENCE VSU’s faculty are engaged in scholarly activities, including published papers in national and international peer-reviewed journals, authored and co-authored books, research presentation, and juried exhibits. Many of these scholarly activities are completed with the assistance of undergraduate and graduate students, providing opportunities for students to conduct research that is directly related to their selected discipline. Undergraduate and graduate students showcase their research and scholarly activities during the annual symposiums held each spring semester. Students are also actively engaged in scholarly activities with faculty members through various projects sponsored through the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), which promotes undergraduate engagement in discipline-based inquiry. Valdosta State’s QEP involves a paradigm shift to reinforce the message that research is not confined to conventional laboratory settings. In 2013, VSU opened the Innovative Design for Enhancing the Academy (IDEA) Center on main campus. The center is designed to provide a place for faculty to collaborate and enhance their individual

EDUCATION

and joint endeavors in teaching, practice, research and service to the university, as well as regional and global communities. VSU’s academic community continues to grow with the Health Sciences and Business Administration (HSBA) building, scheduled to open spring 2014. Located on the Rea and Lillian Steele North Campus, the 140,000-square-foot, $32 million facility will house six health sciences programs: nursing, communication sciences and disorders, athletic training, exercise physiology, social work, and health care administration. The HSBA building will allow VSU to expand existing programs and develop new degrees to produce more health care professionals. With the move of several academic programs to the new HSBA, space occupied by the College of Nursing and Health Sciences in Martin Hall will become available for the new Center for Excellence in STEM Education. The STEM education center will provided expanded training to VSU students and regional teachers in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math.

CREATING A MORE HIGHLY EDUCATED WORKFORCE With an enrollment of nearly 12,000 students, VSU students have met the highest admissions standards in the history of the university and are entering and persisting at higher rates than ever before. VSU students have many options for course instruction, including traditional classroom and online delivery, along with study-abroad opportunities and internships that provide a broader set of skills and knowledge. As the only public university in Georgia that is a member of the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AACU) LEAP Employer-Educator Compact, VSU is working with local and regional businesses and nonprofit organizations to promote the economic value of liberal education and to provide students with more hands-on learning opportunities to connect their campus learning with real-world contexts and problems.

GEORGIA MILITARY COLLEGE BY GMC STAFF

FAST FACTS & ACCOLADES

• Valdosta – Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce Leading Business of the Week.

• Ranked 12th by Washington Monthly as one of America’s Best Community Colleges, 2010. • G.I. Jobs magazine designated GMC Valdosta as a “Military Friendly School” five years in row. • Community Partners in Education Award in 2008, 2010 and 2012. • Student recipient of the 2013 Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team Silver Scholar. • Student recipient of The Distinguished Order of the Servant Leader Award. • Student recipient of a Georgia Power College Scholarship. • Ethics team participation in the Southeast Regional Intercollegiate Ethics Bowl.

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

Georgia Military College began offering classes in Valdosta on Moody Air Force Base in 1979 and moved to its current location in 2006, with campus expansion continuing in 2009. The newly constructed facility is located at 4201 North Forrest Street Extension directly across the street from Dewar Elementary School and approximately one block north of Valdosta High School. Moody Air Force Base continues to host a GMC-Valdosta office on base. GMC-Valdosta is home to several types of students: recent high school and GED graduates, transfer, transient, dual-enrolled high school juniors and seniors, and nontraditional students returning to school after time away. GMC’s mission and purpose continues to be to create educated and responsible citizens. GMC offers students a liberal-arts-based two-year undergraduate curriculum designed to support student attainment of an associate degree and to prepare students for transfer to four-year colleges and universities.

HOMES, HAMLETS & HOOK-UPS

BY AMANDA KNOLES

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Photo Courtesy of Real Living Realty Advisors

ccording to the U.S. Census Bureau, Lowndes County has a population of 114,552, and 58.3 percent of residents own their homes. A County Board of Commissioners, a county manager and an administrative staff lead the fast-growing and progressive county. There are five incorporated cities in the county: Dasher, Hahira, Lake Park, Remerton and Valdosta. Housing costs in the county are 13 percent lower than the national average, and Georgia residents enjoy a

cost of living 4.1 percent less than other areas of the United States.

VALDOSTA Valdosta, Lowndes County’s largest city and county seat, is home to a beautifully restored downtown and more than 55,000 residents. The city has experienced 31.7 percent population growth since 2000. Located midway between Atlanta and Orlando, just a short drive from the Georgia/Florida border, Valdosta is a progressive Main Street City that retains its small-town Southern charm. Featuring affordable homes and a friendly vibe, the “Azalea City” is known for its thriving business community, excellent educational system and abundant opportunities for recreation, entertainment and the arts. A popular location for retirees, it has also become a sought-after destination for young professionals, and it’s a great place to raise a family.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 43.6 percent of residents own their homes, while 31 percent rent. The median sales price for a single-family home in Valdosta is $124,000, with an average listing price of $164,642. Numerous rental opportunities are available, ranging from apartments, condos and townhomes to lofts in the revitalized downtown district. “There is a home for every taste and budget. Home prices here range from $60,000 to $2 million-plus, with the majority being $120,000 to $300,000,” explained Tammy Borders of Real Living Realty Advisors. “We have many affordably priced homes in the midprice range located near schools, shopping and easy commuting distance of I-75.” Those seeking more acreage can choose from rural ranch-style homes or nearby lakefront properties. Several new subdivisions offer buildto-suit options with a choice of decorator interiors and modern amenities. For those who

HOMES, HAMLETS & HOOK-UPS

FEATURING AFFORDABLE HOMES AND A FRIENDLY VIBE, THE “AZALEA CITY” IS KNOWN FOR ITS THRIVING BUSINESS COMMUNITY, EXCELLENT EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM AND ABUNDANT OPPORTUNITIES FOR RECREATION, ENTERTAINMENT AND THE ARTS. want to live near the golf course, Stone Creek, Valdosta Country Club and Kinderlou Forest offer convenient access to outdoor recreation plus a choice of home styles and amenities. Apartments, townhomes, condos and rental homes are plentiful in Valdosta, but they tend to rent quickly, according to Borders. “Many families relocating to Valdosta like to rent before they buy. It’s one way to become familiar with the various neighborhoods before you commit to buying a home.” Apartment rents range from $500 for a modest one-bedroom to $1,500 for a luxury three-bedroom condo. Home rentals vary in price based on size and location. The Timbers is a new upscale condominium complex located near Valdosta State University and South Georgia Medical Center at 210 West Cranford Avenue. The luxurious two-story units feature gated access, three bedrooms (each with its own bath), custom stone and woodwork, and other designer touches.

VALDOSTA AND LOWNDES COUNTY CONTACTS All area codes are 229 unless otherwise noted.

DIAL 911 FOR EMERGENCIES.

CITY OF VALDOSTA 216 E. Central Avenue, Valdosta 242-2600 www.valdostacity.com Animal Shelter................................. 245-5253

Municipal Court............................... 293-3171

City Manager.................................. 259-3500

Police (non-emergency).................... 242-2606

Community Development.................. 259-3561

Public Works................................... 259-3588

Engineering..................................... 259-3530

Purchasing...................................... 259-3525

Finance........................................... 259-3512

Recreation and Parks....................... 259-3507

Fire (non-emergency)....................... 333-1835

Utility Services................................. 259-3592

Human Resources............................ 259-3544

Voter Registration............................ 671-2850

Information Technology..................... 671-3624

Zoning............................................ 259-3563

Inspections...................................... 259-3506

LOWNDES COUNTY www.lowndescounty.com 911/Emergency Management Center Administration.............................. 245-5246

Fire and Rescue (non-emergency)...... 671-2730 Human Resources............................ 671-2410

Administration................................. 671-2400

Information Technology Systems........ 671-2450

Animal Shelter................................. 671-2760

Magistrate Court Civil Division.......... 671-2610

Board of Assessors........................... 671-2540

Motor Vehicles................................. 333-5385

Board of Elections............................ 671-2850

Occupational Tax (Business Licenses).. 671-2534

Clerk Superior and State Courts........ 333-5127

Probate Court.................................. 671-2650

County Clerk................................... 671-2400

Public Works................................... 671-2700

County Manager.............................. 671-2440

Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency)........ 671-2900

District Attorney............................... 244-7170

Tax Commissioner/Tag Office........... 671-2579

Drug Action Council......................... 333-5175

Utilities........................................... 671-2500

Engineering..................................... 671-2424

Zoning............................................ 671-2430

Finance........................................... 671-2526

Real Estate Appraisers & Consultants

Residential, Commercial & Farm Land Appraisals

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

1810 N Ashley St • Ste 8 Valdosta, GA 229-293-0065

HOMES, HAMLETS & HOOK-UPS

DASHER Dasher is a rural community with a population of 912. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Dasherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s population has grown 9.35 percent since 2000. Established by some of the early settlers of Lowndes County, Dasher has a rich history centered on cotton farming, merchandising and the establishment of the Georgia Southern and Florida Railroad. Located eight miles from Valdosta, Dasher features a small-town lifestyle and a cost of living 7.70 percent lower than the U.S. average. A mayor and four council members manage city services. The median sale price of homes in Dasher is $142,000. More than 75 percent of homes are owned, and approximately 17 percent are rented.

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CITY OF DASHER CONTACTS

3686 Highway 41 South, Dasher 229-559-3146 http://dasherga.com

DASHER HAS A RICH HISTORY CENTERED ON COTTON FARMING, MERCHANDISING AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE GEORGIA SOUTHERN AND FLORIDA RAILROAD.

HOMES, HAMLETS & HOOK-UPS

HAHIRA Located 11 miles north of Valdosta, Hahira is the northern gateway to Lowndes County. With a population of 2,737, it has experienced population growth of 68.33 percent since 2000. Residents enjoy an easygoing lifestyle with affordable housing, proximity to good schools and a low crime rate. The median sales price for homes in Hahira is $179,000, and the average listing price is $234,410. Home prices have increased 6.4 percent in the last year. Approximately 59 percent of homes are owned, compared to 34 percent rented. Real estate available in the city includes single-family homes, condos and apartments, with a variety of commercial properties also available. The cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s well-maintained parks and citywide beautification program have earned it a Tree City USA designation 18 years in a row, and the Georgia Department of Community Affairs has awarded it a Better Hometown Designation. Residents enjoy five city parks within walking distance and the convenience of shopping for food, clothing, gifts and other items in the pedestrian-friendly downtown area. The quaint downtown attracts visitors to many historic buildings, including the City CafĂŠ, Stanfil Building, Norfolk Southern Railroad Caboose, turn-of-the-century churches, Gold Leaf Hotel and City Hall. Community spirit runs high in this friendly town governed by a mayor, four council members and a city manager. The annual Honeybee Festival in October is a highly anticipated event that draws over 20,000 visitors to the city each year.

CITY OF HAHIRA CONTACTS 102 Church Street, Hahira 229-794-2330 www.hahira.ga.us

Fire (non-emergency).............. 229-794-2830

Trash Pickup.......................... 229-794-2330 Voter Registration................... 229-794-2330 Water and Sewer................... 229-794-2330

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

Police (non-emergency)........... 229-794-2440

HOMES, HAMLETS & HOOK-UPS

LAKE PARK

CITY OF LAKE PARK & CITY OF REMERTON CONTACTS CITY OF LAKE PARK 120 Essa Street, Lake Park 559-7470

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

http://cityoflakeparkga.com

Fire (non-emergency).......................559-1959 Police (non-emergency)....................559-7470

CITY OF REMERTON 1757 Poplar Street, Remerton 229-247-2320 www.cityofremerton.com Court Clerk.................. 229-247-2320 ext. 28 Municipal Judge........... 229-247-2320 ext. 28 Planning & Zoning........ 229-247-2320 ext. 23 Police (non-emergency).............229-245-5270 Utilities/Street/Fire....... 229-247-2320 ext. 33

Originally known as the hamlet of Twin Lakes, this popular area officially became Lake Park in 1890. Situated 14 miles south of Valdosta, it is known today as the “Georgia-Florida Gateway” thanks to its location just north of the Florida state line on Interstate 75. With a population of 733, it has experienced growth of 33.5 percent since 2000. Featuring a rich history filled with tales of Native Americans, plantations and early settlers, Lake Park combines a friendly small-town atmosphere with spectacular scenic beauty. Attracting numerous visitors from surrounding areas to its outlet malls, lakes and trails, the city anticipates continued growth due to its affordable housing, ample industrial properties and convenient location. Residents enjoy a mild climate and year-round outdoor activities including golf, boating, sailing, swimming, skiing and hunting. Lake Park real estate listings include single-family homes, townhomes, condos and vacation homes. Approximately 60 percent of Lake Park homes are owned. The median sales price for homes in Lake Park is $125,000, with an average listing price of $221,449. Both older and newer homes frequently go on the market, and affordably priced lots are available for building custom homes. The city celebrated its centennial in 1991 and established the Lake Park Historical Society to archive its colorful history. The Lake Park Museum, once used as a general store, features photographs, artifacts and important documents chronicling the city’s history. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Once known for its bountiful cotton crops, the city now shares the title “Carrot Capital of the South” with neighboring Echols County.

REMERTON Remerton is a small town with a population of 1,151. Since 2000 it has charted population growth of 35 percent. The town was established in 1899 and named for Remer Young Lane, who was a major financial supporter of the Strickland Cotton Mill. The site of the mill and village was chosen for its proximity to the Georgia Southern Railroad, and the abundance of pine trees, from which workers’ homes were built. In 1951 the mill and village area incorporated as a town, and in 2000 it was chartered as a city. Today Remerton has a fully functioning city government including a mayor and sixmember council. Services include fire and police departments, public works, and utilities. Remerton is popular with Valdosta State University students and offers a variety of affordable housing options, including affordably priced single-family homes, apartments and rental houses. The median home value in Remerton is $91,000.

HOMES, HAMLETS & HOOK-UPS

LOCAL

UTILITIES CABLE Charter Communications... 800-955-7766 MediaCom..................... 229-244-4400

ELECTRICITY Colquitt EMC.................. 229-244-6893 Consolidated Electrical Distributors..... 229-242-2870 Georgia Power Company..................... 888-660-5890

NATURAL GAS AND/OR PROPANE Atlanta Gas Light............. 229-219-7044 Commerce Energy........... 877-226-5389 Coweta-Fayette EMC........ 877-746-4362 Georgia Natural Gas....... 877-850-6200 Infinite Energy................. 877-483-4684 MX Energy..................... 877-677-4355 SCANA Energy............... 866-280-6236

TELEPHONE AT&T............................. 229-293-9308 Nations Link Communications............ 229-245-1099 Sprint............................. 229-219-9985 Windstream Telephone Co............... 800-501-1754

Deep South Sanitation...... 229-559-0200 Milo Sanitation............... 229-356-0857 Veolia Environmental Services....................... 229-244-2466

229-242-3910

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

TRASH REMOVAL

RETIREMENT / LIFESTYLES

ENERGIZED IN VALDOSTA When people think of retirees and active seniors, Florida often comes to mind. But South Georgia is no longer a best-kept secret when it comes to a great retirement or semi-retired lifestyle. Valdosta in particular has been recognized as one of the best communities for retirees in the United States, and these active seniors are living proof that retired or not, Lowndes County is a great place to be in the over 50 crowd. BY AMANDA KNOLES

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CARLA PENNY

Born in Miami, Florida, Carla Penny graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Georgia with a concentration in fabric design. She began framing pictures in 1976 and opened her frame store in Valdosta in 1979. Classic Art and Frame has been in business for 35 years and is well known for offering quality products as well as excellent customer service. While the frame business takes up much of her week, Penny takes advantage of the many recreational activities available in Lowndes County in her leisure time. “The Little River is a great spot for kayaking and fishing,” she noted. A love of art runs in the family. Carla resides in Hahira with her husband, Don Penny, retired Professor Emeritus of Art at Valdosta State University. He enjoys producing sculptural ceramics at his studio and is Trustee Emeritus of the American Crafts Council. The couple strongly supports the regional arts community. Carla is president of the Symphony Guild, and both Don and Carla have served on the ValdostaLowndes Arts Commission. “One of the things my husband and I love most about living here are the cultural opportunities that are available,” she said. “We have an outstanding symphony and an exceptionally accomplished maestro. Visitors travel distances to attend our symphony performances, and the children’s programs serve young students across the entire region.” The Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts in Valdosta is another favorite. “We are so proud of the Turner Center,” Penny said. “It is a gorgeous facility that presents visual arts in museum-quality galleries, and we get to enjoy world-class performances from their Presenter Series of entertainment, art and cooking classes, and much more.” Penny notes that even more entertainment opportunities are available for theatre-goers. “The ’Dosta Theatre downtown presents an annual

season of musicals, drama and comedy, and they love to see new participants on their stage and backstage as well. Peach State Summer Theatre productions are another theatre opportunity that is a must-see in Valdosta.” Giving back to the community seems to be second nature to Carla. When she isn’t working at the frame shop, she’s usually busy with projects for the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce or helping out with arts-related events. She oversaw the Chamber’s Centennial Tree Project, which resulted in 103 trees being planted throughout the city, and she is chairman of the Barber Trust Committee, which oversees the historic Barber-Pittman House. Recently the Chamber was presented the Historic Preservation Award from the city for its efforts in maintaining the historic landmark. “2015 will be the 100th anniversary for the Barber House, so we will be planning a number of events for that,” Penny said. She has also assisted Valdosta State University with numerous art installations over the years and participated in Valdosta’s version of Dancing With the Stars to raise money for VSU music, dance and theater scholarships in 2012. “I have never thought of myself as a good dancer,” she said, “but the whole experience was a lot of fun and it was for a great cause.” Penny says she meets a lot of retirees who come into her frame shop when they first move to town. “Most of the people I’ve talked to find that Valdosta-Lowndes is a very comfortable place to live. It’s a warm and friendly community and it’s easy to find your place here. “With all the cultural, recreational and community activities available, it’s a place where you can be as active as you want to be,” she added. “For anyone considering moving here I would say be ready to get involved. You will have lots of invitations to join local organizations and get to know your neighbors.”

RETIREMENT / LIFESTYLES

DENNIS AND PATRICIA MARKS Dennis and Patricia Marks, known affectionately around town as the “pair o’ docs,” have a long history of service to the Valdosta-Lowndes community. Dennis was a professor for 30 years at Valdosta State University and served as head of the Department of Physics, Astronomy and Geosciences. As an astrophysicist he continues to pursue research and is active in many community organizations, including the ValdostaLowndes Chamber of Commerce, the VSU Opera Board and the VSU Retirees Association. The couple married in Lansing, Michigan, in 1968. Patricia earned a Ph.D. in English at Michigan State University, and Dennis earned a Ph.D. in Astronomy from the University of Michigan in 1970. After spending a year in Toronto, where Dennis had a post-doctoral position, the couple moved to Valdosta to accept jobs at Valdosta State College. Over the next 30 years Patricia taught a wide range of courses in the English Department and was honored with numerous awards, including the Governor’s Award in the Humanities in 2000 and the Regents’ Distinguished Professor for Teaching and Learning in 1996. She has also written five books and published many articles and academic papers. While Dennis and Patricia have been retired from VSU for several years, they find they are busier than ever through their volunteer work. Dennis is an active member and past president of the Rotary Club of Valdosta. His duties as literacy chair led him to become team coordinator for the Lowndes Imagination Library program, a cause that he passionately supports. Founded by Dolly Parton and promoted by the Valdosta area Rotary Clubs and other local organizations, Imagination Library provides high-quality, age-appropriate books at no cost to children registered in the program. “Our local chapter has raised over $52,000 since 2009 and supplied books monthly to over 500 children,” he noted. When contributors donate $24, it provides a book a month for one child for one year. A donation of $120 provides books from birth up to a child’s 5th birthday. “This project is an investment in the future of Lowndes County,” Marks emphasized. “Children who learn to read early in their lives are more likely to do well in school, perform better in their jobs, and become informed citizens.”

After retirement from VSU, Patricia was ordained an Episcopal deacon, serving at Christ Episcopal Church since 2003. Her love of knitting led her to create the Stitchers of Love group in 2004. “We create knitted items like prayer shawls, care bears and baby blankets to donate to people in need of comfort after accidents, natural disasters and other stressful events,” she said. Most recently the group created blankets to send to orphans in Syria. Patricia also created the Helping Hands ministry to provide clothing, toiletries and other essential items to The Haven, Valdosta’s shelter for women and children who are victims of domestic violence, and to the Children’s Advocacy Center and DFACS. “There are countless opportunities for retirees to get involved in helping the community here,” Patricia said. “From local food banks and social agencies to arts organizations that need volunteers, there is an ongoing need for help and myriad ways that people can make a difference.” The couple’s love of travel has taken them to cities all over the country as well as Europe, China, Antarctica, Galapagos, Greenland and Iceland. When they aren’t traveling they enjoy the broad choice of cultural and entertainment venues available in Valdosta, including the symphony, arts programs at the Turner Center and the ongoing events downtown like Farm Days, First Fridays and Art After Dark. The small-town charm, close proximity to the university and generous community spirit are just a few of the reasons the couple is happy to call Valdosta home. “We love to travel but it’s always nice to come home,” Patricia said. “It’s a warm, welcoming place with lots of activities to enjoy,” added Dennis. “Our advice to anyone considering moving here is ‘Come on Down!’”

DENNIS IS AN ACTIVE MEMBER AND PAST PRESIDENT OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF VALDOSTA. HIS DUTIES BECOME TEAM COORDINATOR FOR THE LOWNDES IMAGINATION LIBRARY PROGRAM, A CAUSE THAT HE PASSIONATELY SUPPORTS.

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

AS LITERACY CHAIR LED HIM TO

RETIREMENT / LIFESTYLES

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

JIM GALLOWAY

Jim Galloway is best known around town as the manager at Valdosta Regional Airport. Born and raised in Hendersonville, Tennessee, he first learned about Valdosta when he was transferred to Moody Air Force Base. “I first moved here with my family in 2004 and was at Moody through 2006, then I was transferred to Montgomery, Alabama. My family stayed in Valdosta and I commuted back and forth on weekends. I returned to Valdosta in December 2010 and I’ve been here ever since,” he said. His wife, Renee, received her master’s degree from Valdosta State University and teaches seventh grade English in Lowndes County at Hahira Middle School. Getting transferred to a new base is never an easy thing for those serving in the military, but Galloway says being sent to Valdosta was one of the best moves of his career. “Valdosta is incredibly welcoming, and the city and Moody have, without a doubt, the strongest bond I have ever seen as far as how much support the community has for the base and its personnel. It’s easy to see why many of the airmen stationed here decide to stay or move back when they complete their Air Force careers.” 2011 was an eventful year for Galloway. He retired his post as a colonel in the Air Force and took on new roles as executive director of the Valdosta-Lowndes Regional Airport Authority and as airport manager. “Essentially I wear two hats,” he explained. “The Airport Authority has a five-year program that approves future projects that will benefit the airport and the surrounding region. We work very closely with the Industrial Authority and the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber

of Commerce to make sure that we are prepared to handle the future needs of the area.” As airport manager he is involved in overseeing daily operations, helping recruit new businesses and keeping a watchful eye on ongoing construction projects. “The airport has a direct impact on the local economy; not just from passenger and business travel, but from the jobs we create during construction projects,” he noted. When he isn’t busy at the airport Galloway enjoys being outdoors. “I love going to high school football games and taking advantage of Valdosta’s nice weather to enjoy recreational activities. One of my favorite things to do is playing cornhole (a.k.a. corn toss) games in the yard. It’s a tailgating type of activity that our family and friends have a lot of fun with.”

Galloway also finds time to give back to the community. He serves on the board of directors of United Way and the Valdosta Rotary Club and serves on the board of the Georgia Airport Association. He isn’t surprised that a lot of military retirees and older adults are choosing to relocate to Lowndes County. “It’s an ideal place to live. We have a low cost of living, convenient proximity to transportation, and excellent medical facilities. The weather is good, and there are so many things to do, there is something to keep you busy and entertained year-round. Because of all the agriculture that is nearby we have a terrific farmers market offering lots of fruits, vegetables and other locally grown products. The events that take place downtown throughout the year are fun for all ages, and the people who live here are so friendly it’s really easy to make new friends.”

“VALDOSTA IS INCREDIBLY WELCOMING, AND THE CITY AND MOODY HAVE, WITHOUT A DOUBT, THE STRONGEST BOND I HAVE EVER SEEN AS FAR AS HOW MUCH SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY HAS FOR THE BASE AND ITS PERSONNEL. IT’S EASY TO SEE WHY MANY OF THE AIRMEN STATIONED HERE DECIDE TO STAY OR MOVE BACK WHEN THEY COMPLETE THEIR AIR FORCE CAREERS.”

RETIREMENT / LIFESTYLES

NEVER STOP

LEARNING BY AMANDA KNOLES

FOR MORE INFORMATION

229-245-6484 • www.valdosta.edu/conted

email: sandshorizon@bellsouth.net

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

Learning In Retirement (LIR), sponsored by Valdosta State University’s Continuing Education Department, is one of the most popular activities in town for residents 50 and older. LIR offers older adults the opportunity to take courses on a non-credit basis. There are no tests and no grades, but members have a wide choice of classes from which to choose. Unlike noncredit programs at other universities, VSU’s program is led by members who are involved in planning the curriculum, recruiting new members, managing the budget, and helping to develop social programming. “LIR encourages peer learning and active member participation,” explained Suzanne Ewing, program coordinator. “Our instructors come from a wide variety of backgrounds, and we like to utilize the strengths and experiences of our own membership when possible. Adhering to our mission, we are always seeking to provide a unique opportunity for cultural growth, lifelong learning and recreation.” The program currently offers between 85 and 100 different classes each term plus a variety of other social activities for members, including lunches at local restaurants, games and day trips to nearby farms, museums, gardens and more. Since it originated in 1996, LIR has grown to over 200 individuals participating each term. Three terms are offered each year in fall, winter and spring. As the membership in LIR has grown, the variety of topics offered has become more diverse. “We add different classes each term so regular participants always have something new to choose from” said Ewing. Popular health and fitness classes range from yoga and tennis to chair aerobics and Zumba Gold®. Courses specially designed for older adults include Coping With Hearing Loss, Becoming a Family Caregiver, and Arthritis and Exercise. Health prevention courses like Stepping Out stress the benefits of strength-building exercises and the importance of reducing risk factors in the home that could contribute to falls or other injuries. Those with a passion for arts and crafts will find everything from drawing and oil painting to crystal beading, braided jewelry, knitting and crocheting. Music buffs can learn to play various instruments, and performing arts enthusiasts may participate in a behind-the-scenes look at the Valdosta Symphony or get a preview of the latest production from Peach State Summer Theater. Discussion groups offer a chance to catch up on the latest bestsellers or engage in lively debates on current events. Membership in LIR is available to men and women 50 and older who want to enhance their knowledge. Membership for each term is $45, although additional charges for some classes and activities may apply, such as the cost of art supplies or travel expenses. Members are also eligible for affordably priced membership at the VSU Student Recreation Center, where they can swim, work out with the latest fitness equipment, or challenge their strength and dexterity on the climbing wall.

RETIREMENT / LIFESTYLES

People who are considering Lowndes County for a South Georgia retirement have a number of informational resources to help them make the move. Triple Crown Hometowns, for example, is a Retirement Development Partnership that highlights the virtues of three Georgia counties as retirement destinations. Valdosta is one of the partnership’s “Jewels of the South” for seniors, and you can find a wealth of information about visiting and making your move on the Triple Crown Hometowns website at www.georgiaretire.com. The Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce is also happy to help with information about the area’s assets and important infrastructure for seniors. And for retirees who are new to the area, their Silver Stars membership program and Connection magazine speed the process of getting acquainted with fellow retirees and the community overall. Visit the Chamber website at www.valdostachamber.com to learn more and to see the electronic version of the latest issue of Connection.

MORE FOR SENIORS IN SOUTH GEORGIA ASSISTED LIVING OPTIONS FOR YOUR LOVED ONES The idea of moving to a new community for retirement or semi-retirement can leave many active seniors who are caring for aging parents at a crossroads. The community you choose needs to not only accommodate your lifestyle, but also that of your mother or father. The Valdosta area has a number of quality assisted living locations that can make the move to South Georgia a good experience for the entire family — whatever level of care is required — including these valued Chamber members:

Comfort Keepers

3470 North Valdosta Road F-2 Valdosta, GA............... 229-241-0002 www.comfortkeepers.com

Fellowship Home at Brookside, Inc.

470 Fellowship Home Lane Valdosta, GA .............. 229-244-9200 www.fellowshiphome.net

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Langdale Place

2720 Windemere Drive Valdosta, GA............... 229-247-4300

Presbyterian Homes of Georgia

1901 W. Screven Street Quitman, GA............... 229-263-6100

RETIREMENT / LIFESTYLES

FELLOWSHIP HOME AT BROOKSIDE

BY MARY WEST

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

Located in a country setting of flowering gardens, sprawling oaks and pecan groves, Fellowship Home at Brookside is in a beautiful, tranquil environment. This serene spot filled with fresh air and good fellowship is the perfect place for seniors to spend their golden years. Owned and operated by three generations of the LaHood family, the facilityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to ensure residents the best quality of life possible while giving their families peace of mind. Careful oversight is rendered by the LaHoods, as they are onsite 365 days a year. The extraordinary staff is dedicated to high standards of service and hospitality, providing a comprehensive array of personal care that include medication management, a nurse call system and assistance with activities of daily living. Aside from personal care, the home offers an impressive spectrum of amenities designed to meet the physical, mental and social needs of the residents. Three delicious meals are served daily that accommodate special diets. Other amenities include transportation, housekeeping and a worship center along with a library, theater and fitness center. Activities such as bingo, parties and fishing, in addition to devotionals, shopping trips and field trips, all serve to enhance the lives of the seniors, making their days full and rich. Although Fellowship Home was established in 1978, in June 2013 it became one of the first licensed assisted living communities in Georgia. This means that providing higher levels of care such as medication administration and assisted self-preservation will allow the residents to age in place, avoiding placement in a nursing home prematurely and possibly preventing its necessity altogether. Obtaining the ALC licensure required hiring additional staff with specialized training in certain areas, as well as making modifications to the physical plan to meet life safety code standards. The attainment of the licensure shows the commitment of the LaHood family to the welfare of the seniors who reside here.

FAITH & FAMILY

ABY DAVIDMOMENT IN TIME L. WEBB

A MOMENT

IN TIME

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BY DAVID WEBB

here aren’t many relationships that are more important than the bond between a father and daughter. It’s a relationship that can’t be described with words; a connection that can only be understood by those fathers who have been blessed with little girls. They realize how important it is to not only protect their daughters, but to teach them how a man should treat a woman. This was the original purpose of the First Presbyterian Father/ Daughter Dance, which began in 1997. It was the perfect opportunity for fathers to show their daughters what they should look for in a man. The event was originally intended for girls between the ages of 2 and 12, but quickly grew to include teenagers, women in their 30s and even some attendants who were in their 60s. Jeff Stewart created the event after reading an article about a father/ daughter dance held in Massachusetts. After researching how to start such a event in Valdosta, Stewart quickly went about finding a place to hold the dance. No one could have imagined how quickly this annual, early-February gathering would blossom. The first dance had an attendance of 60 to 75 people, but grew to 375 the following year. This trend continued over the years, so much so that the dance has had to be relocated several times to accommodate all those wishing to attend. In 2013 there were more than 5,000 people in attendance. Its current location is at the James H. Rainwater Conference

Center, one of the largest facilities in Valdosta, and the dance has become so large that they expanded the event from one night to two nights and have even split the dances into two per night in order to keep it from becoming too crowded and uncomfortable. Among many memorable moments, there was one that Stewart says he will never forget. It was the story of a husband whose wife had been estranged from her father for many years because he had been forced to move to another state. One year, her husband secretly made arrangements for him to travel to Georgia to attend the event. On the night of the dance, completely unaware of her husband’s plan, his wife opened the door to find her father standing there holding flowers and a beautiful new dress that he had bought her for the dance. Stories like these are what make the dance so special, not only for Stewart, but also for Reverend Jerry Long, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Valdosta, where the first dance was held. Long says that he is glad that the dance has been able to minister to so many lives, because that’s what the church seeks to do; touch the lives and hearts of the people. Stewart could never have dreamed of the impact the dance would have on the many people who have driven long distances to attend. “The bottom line is that we want people to be able to have a great time and to be able to give fathers a chance to show their daughters how they should be treated,” Stewart said.

FAITH & FAMILY

HOUSES OF WORSHIP Abundant Life Church of God

3419 Knights Academy Road, Valdosta 229-242-2174 • 229-242-4252

Azalea City Church of God

1519 River Street, Valdosta 229-244-1855 • www.myazaleacity.com

Brighter Day International Ministries, Inc.

5901 A Bemiss Road, Valdosta 229-219-7662 www.brighterdayinternationalministries.com

Christian Love Bible Baptist Church, Inc. 526 Griffin Avenue, Valdosta 229-219-0079

Crosspointe Church

110 Northside Drive, Valdosta 229-242-7702

First Presbyterian Church

313 N. Patterson Street, Valdosta 229-242-8376 • www.firstpresvaldosta.org

First United Methodist Church 220 N. Patterson Street, Valdosta 229-242-4050

Forrest Park Church of Christ 4263 Inner Perimeter Road, Valdosta 229-242-2174

4381 N. Forrest Street Ext., Valdosta 229-244-5344

Grace Fellowship Seventh Day Adventist Church 1304 W. Hill Avenue, Valdosta 321-225-1120

House of Joy

3323 Bemiss Road, Suite E, Valdosta 229-253-8549 • www.houseofjoy.info/

The Journey Church of Valdosta 1601E Park Avenue, Valdosta 229-375-0077

Lighthouse Baptist Church 4565 Bemiss Road, Valdosta 229-244-8436

New Covenant Church

3531 Bemiss Road, Valdosta 229-247-7777 • nccvaldosta.org

Northside Baptist Church of Valdosta, Inc. 200 E. Park Avenue, Valdosta 229-242-4940

The Rock Church 1401 Old Clyattville Road, Valdosta 229-242-1060

Southland Church

2206 E. Hill Avenue, Valdosta 229-245-8188

St. Barnabas Episcopal Church 3565 Bemiss Road, Valdosta, GA 229-242-5332

Temple Israel

511 Baytree Road, Valdosta 229-244-1813

Union Cathedral

P.O. Box 1923, Valdosta 229-244-1077

The Vision Church

2711 Bemiss Road, Valdosta 229-333-7702 • www.thevisiononline.org/

Woodlawn Forrest Church of Christ

1515 N. Forrest Street, Valdosta 229-242-7628 www.woodlawnforrest.com

Park Avenue United Methodist Church 100 E. Park Avenue, Valdosta 229-242-3562

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

The Gathering, UMC

RECREATION, CELEBRATION & REFLECTION

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

VISUAL ARTS

BY DANA HINDERS

ANNETTE HOWELL TURNER CENTER FOR THE ARTS http://turnercenter.org/

Named in memory of former Georgia Senator Loyce Turner’s late wife, the Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts plays a vital role in nurturing the area’s artistic community. The Turner Center is open to residents and visitors from Lowndes County and the surrounding Georgia counties, as well as North Florida. Parking and admission are free, but donations are accepted. During the spring, the Turner Center encourages talented local artists to display paintings, drawings, sculpture, photography, printmaking, ceramics and jewelry in its annual Spring Into Art Show. The show is sponsored by local businesses, and awards are given to the most promising artists. Last year,

the “Best of Show” award went to Barbara Balzer, a sculptor from Tallahassee, Florida, who will be taking part in an Artists-inResidence Exhibition at the Government Museum Art Gallery in Kerala, India, in 2014. Throughout the year, the facility provides free tours to groups of all sizes, including church groups and school clubs. Exhibits from the permanent collection, which includes a large assortment of over 600 pieces of East African art and more than 30 examples of fine antique European porcelain, change every six weeks. To learn more about how to schedule a tour, contact the Turner Center at 229-247ARTS (2787).

Patrons can also take advantage of several free or low-cost classes, including writer’s workshops, yoga lessons, pottery and introductory oil painting. Most classes are for beginners or intermediate-level students, but there are opportunities for advanced students to work on projects at their own pace if desired. The Turner Center also accepts suggestions for future classes, if there is a topic you are interested in that is not currently offered. The Southern Artist’s League meets in the Turner Center on the third Thursday of each month. This nonprofit association welcomes artists of all skill levels to attend its programs and art demonstrations.

RECREATION, CELEBRATION & REFLECTION

ART AFTER DARK

http://valdostamainstreet.com On the third Friday of each month from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., art lovers of all ages are encouraged to stroll through downtown Valdosta to check out intriguing artwork created by local residents. The area’s historic buildings, streets and alleys are temporarily transformed into indoor/outdoor art galleries during this free monthly event. Past displays have focused on visual arts such as photography, drawing, ceramics and oil painting. Many local businesses and restaurants are open during Art After Dark, so you can enjoy some shopping or grab a bite to eat when you’re finished admiring the work of your favorite local artists. It’s the perfect way to kick off your weekend. The first Art After Dark event was held in September 2007 and was the brainchild of downtown entrepreneur Albert Slone. The Valdosta Daily Times was the event’s first sponsor, and the Southern Artists League worked with local businesses to get the festivities off the ground.

ENLIGHTENED THROUGH VSU … VISUAL ARTS www.valdosta.edu/colleges/arts Even if your college days are long past, the Valdosta State University Fine Arts Gallery is well worth a visit. Located in the southwest corner of the first floor of the Fine Arts Building, the VSU Fine Arts Gallery has been completely renovated and hosts a diverse assortment of exhibitions throughout the year. As part of the VSU Department of Art, the Fine Arts Gallery serves as a showcase for the work of students within the program. The VSU Student Art Competition takes place from March 24 to April 11, 2014. The Spring Senior Exhibition will take place from April 20 to May 5, 2014. WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

In addition to showcasing student work, the VSU Fine Arts Gallery also exhibits collections by artists from outside the area. Rituals, a display of color photography by Mark Alan Francis, will be shown from February 17 to March 8, 2014. Francis is associate professor of photography and photography program coordinator at Pensacola State College in Florida. Rituals consists of 50 color-saturated prints taken at various community festivals held across the United States.

RECREATION, CELEBRATION & REFLECTION

ON WITH THE SHOW THEATRE IN LOWNDES COUNTY BY DANA HINDERS

PEACH STATE SUMMER THEATRE (PSST!)

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.valdosta.edu/colleges/arts

The 2014 season will be the 25th season of professional summer musical theatre performances produced by Valdosta State University’s Peach State Summer Theatre. Shows scheduled for the summer include Mary Poppins, Smokey Joe’s Cafe: The Songs of Leiber and Stoller and 42nd Street. The shows will feature the work of a crew of 60 professional and emerging theatre artists from across the United States. All PSST! performances are considered family-friendly. However, they are full-length musical shows and may not be appropriate for children under age 8 who are unable to sit quietly for long periods of time. Shows are presented in the Sawyer Theatre in the Fine Arts Building on the VSU campus. They are presented as part of a rotating repertory, which allows theatre fans to see all three performances in a two-day time span if they so desire. PSST! believes that everyone should have access to the arts, regardless of their budget. Each show will have one performance that operates on a “Pay What You Can” plan. On the day of the performance, you can purchase tickets

at the box office by making a contribution of your choice with a cash or check. Single tickets are normally $25 for adults. “‘Pay What You Can’ is an effort to increase access to the arts,” said H. Duke Guthrie, PSST! managing director. “These performances have become very popular dates in our schedule.”

VALDOSTA BROADWAY SHOWS http://turnercenter.org/events/

In addition to showcasing the work of visual artists in the area, the Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts brings select Broadway shows to Valdosta residents several times per year. The Turner Center’s 2013–2014 season featured excellent variety, including The Broadwayboys in October, a production of The Addams Family in November, and a Valentine’s Day performance by the New Shanghai Circus. To see a performance schedule for the 2014–2015 season, be sure to visit the Turner Center’s website. Performances are held at the Mathis City Auditorium in Valdosta. When purchasing tickets for shows, please keep in mind that select performances have optional pre-show events. For example, there was a pre-show dinner for New Shanghai Circus presented by Covington’s Catering.

THEATRE GUILD VALDOSTA www.theatreguildvaldosta.com

Since 1989, the Theater Guild Valdosta has been entertaining residents with live performances of classic shows like Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, The Princess and the Pea, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, and Of Mice and Men. Early in its existence, this community theatre group performed at various locations throughout Valdosta, but in 1992 the organization bought the old ’Dosta Movie Theater on Ashley Street and went through a three-year fundraising and renovation project to turn the old movie house into their new home. Thanks to donations and volunteers from throughout the community, they have since added the two adjoining buildings to increase production space. Tickets for all shows go on sale two weeks prior to opening night, but members can buy tickets one week early. All opening night Main Stage shows at Theater Guild Valdosta have a buy-one-get-one-free ticket offer, so you can save a little money on a fun date night with your significant other. If you’re going with a group of 10 or more, you can receive a $2 discount per ticket on all Gingerbread and Main Stage shows.

RECREATION, CELEBRATION & REFLECTION

ENLIGHTENED THROUGH VSU â&#x20AC;Ś THEATRE & DANCE www.valdosta.edu/colleges/arts Valdosta State University Theatre and Dance kicks off 2014 with performances of Eventually...Ever After, Acadia and Evita. The fourth annual Emerging Artists Showcase will be held April 17 to 20, 2014. The showcase features a performance by students graduating from the musical theatre program, as well as a general dance performance. All shows are free for VSU students. Regular adult tickets are priced at $12. Tickets for groups of 10 or more are just $7. Adult season memberships are $55 and include eight admissions, which can be used for a single admission to each show or grouped as the member desires. Performances are held in either the Sawyer Theatre or the Lab Theatre. Both are located in the Fine Arts Building, with the Sawyer Theatre on the first floor and the Lab Theatre on the second. In addition to the regular public performances, VSU Theatre and Dance also holds several scholarship fundraisers throughout the year.

COWART& SON

CONTAINERS 20FT & 40FT

PORTABLE OFFICES

COWART& SON WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

RECREATION, CELEBRATION & REFLECTION

VALDOSTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA BY MARY WEST

n indispensable part of the cultural life of the city, the Valdosta Symphony Orchestra (VSO) has been entertaining the community and serving the academic mission of Valdosta State University (VSU) since its inception in 1990. The membership of the orchestra is a winning composite of dedicated community performers and selected professionals from a five-state region as well as faculty and music students from the VSU Department of Music. As the orchestra displays a high standard of performance, it attracts guest soloists of national and international renown. Patrons will be dazzled by the upcoming season’s concerts, which will include music from old favorites and selections that are new and unique. Aside from the traditional concert series, VSO offers youth concerts and family concerts to the area, along with Tunes for Tots, a program that acquaints young children with instruments of the orchestra. The symphony also provides music competitions to foster and recognize the attainment of excellence by VSU students. This array of programs exposes every age group to symphonic music and encourages its pursuit. In addition to entertainment, the Valdosta Symphony Orchestra offers educational opportunities. Working in cooperation with the VSU Department of Music, the orchestra supports the South Georgia Strings Project. This joint venture provides string lessons for children ranging from 8 years old through the high school years as well as adults. Students can choose from lessons in group or private settings. All performances, programs and education offered by VSO work together to nourish the love of music in the Valdosta area. Its contribution to the city is invaluable.

ENLIGHTENED THROUGH VSU … MUSIC

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.valdosta.edu/colleges/arts

The Valdosta State University Department of Music enriches the cultural climate of the city immeasurably, offering the public more than 200 performances each year. A broad expanse of music is presented, including classical and opera as well as jazz and pop. Additionally, one of the ensembles performs folk music from various parts of the globe, ranging from Appalachian fiddling to Irish traditional to Argentine tango. While most of the music is performed at Whitehead Auditorium, some entertainment is held at diverse venues within the community. The marching band, known as the Blazin’ Brigade, entertains at home football games and gives exhibitions at high schools. Another alternate venue is a local dinner theater, where opera and operettas are served up with fine cuisine. Musicians from VSU team up with the Valdosta Symphony Orchestra on several occasions during the year. Notable among these performances are Handel’s Messiah and The Nutcracker, both of which add depth and timeless beauty to the Christmas season.

RECREATION, CELEBRATION & REFLECTION

JOIN US IN VALDOSTA

BY MARY WEST

AZALEA FESTIVAL http://azaleafestival.com

Area residents eagerly anticipate spring’s arrival, when the city is ablaze with fuchsia, magenta and pink hues from the profusion of azalea blooms that adorn the landscape. Amid this breathtaking beauty, Valdosta hosts the Azalea Festival in honor of the plant that has made this metropolitan area known as the Azalea City. The 2013 event was a smashing success, as 22,000 visitors from across the Southwest made the trek to the city to enjoy the spring fling, which involves an array of attractions. Features that made a big hit at the previous festival will be brought back to the next one, scheduled for March 8 and 9 of 2014. These include classic car and motorcycle shows as well as The Dreadknots from the History Channel’s Axemen, a water boat ride and a live tiger. Three stages of entertainment will be the scene of performances by Daddy’s Money Band and many other groups. Other attractions will consist of a food court and 150 craft vendors, along with a huge Kid’s Zone with activities to delight the hearts of children. Two athletic competitions will be part of the proceedings. Attendees in good physical condition can participate in the 5K Race, while those who prefer less of a challenge can participate in the 1 Mile Run/Walk. It is easy to see why the Azalea Festival has become a regional favorite event. What better way to celebrate the arrival of spring!

HAHIRA HONEYBEE FESTIVAL www.hahirahoneybeefestivalinc.com

Every year the community looks forward to the Hahira Honeybee Festival, a fall event that includes a parade, entertainment and food in addition to athletics, a pet show and crafts. People flock to this affair, as it has something each member of the family will enjoy, offering activities for everyone from toddlers to grandparents. Starting in 1981 as a weekend, the festivity has become so successful it has grown into a weeklong extravaganza. It is now considered one of the best festivals in the Southeast, drawing an estimated 10,000 to 36,000 visitors annually. The event is a fun composite of many features. Athletic events involve a 5K Run, Bike Ride and Senior Walk, while children’s activities include face painting, pony rides and a carousel. Among the variety of performances available are gospel singing, classic rock and folk rock, along with cloggers and line dancing. This festival truly has it all.

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CONFERENCE CENTER

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

The Valdosta-Lowndes County Conference Center, also known as the James H. Rainwater Conference Center, is a 47,000-square-foot conferencing complex that offers the community first-class meeting space. Additionally, the center has professional staff on hand to help plan your event, ensuring its successful execution. Whether you desire to host a local gathering or need to arrange a conference that will have out-of-town attendees, the facility is a one-stop shop, providing a comprehensive assortment of services and amenities. Nine rooms of various sizes are available that can be configured for almost any meeting and/or social function need. Technology abounds with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment in any meeting room, along with complimentary Wi-Fi. In-house catering services are at your disposal, delivering a wide range of delicious choices that vary from down-home Southern fare to exotic hors d’oeuvres. Unquestionably, the center is a major asset to Valdosta, as it hosts 400 events per year at present. Aside from employing local citizens and purchasing many of the goods and services from the community, a conservative estimate of the facility’s economic impact on the area totaled over $5.4 million for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2013.

RECREATION, CELEBRATION & REFLECTION

CREATE MEMORIES AT WILD ADVENTURES

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

very community needs a place for family to go to spend time together and relax, leaving the pressures of work and school behind. Valdosta is privileged to have just such a place — the Wild Adventures Theme Park. This entertainment mecca extraordinaire provides something for every age group and taste, giving patrons a variety of experiences. A combination of theme, animal and water park rolled into one irresistible package, the attraction is a popular destination for area residents. Where else can you hop on a roller coaster, splash down a water slide, feed a giraffe and watch an all-star concert all in one day, in one place? With its wide-ranging offerings, it’s easy to see why the park is the area’s top amusement.

MULTIPLE ATTRACTIONS BECKON VISITORS The rides area has options for thrill seekers as well as for parkgoers with tamer preferences. Those seeking excitement will not be disappointed with rides like the Firecracker,

Pharaoh’s Fury and the wild beast roller coaster called the Cheetah. Rides suitable for children and families, such as the Ant Farm Express and Kite Flyer, are also available. During the summertime, nothing is as delightfully cooling as spending a day at Splash Island Water Park, a million-gallon water area of slides, rides and attractions. Once again, the amenities offered cater to adventurous souls along with those who just want to get a reprieve from the heat. Patrons can choose to take a trip down the Hakini Rapids, zoom down the Kona Cliffs or take a lazy tube ride down Paradise River. Yet more fun awaits at Polynesian Rain Forest in the form of water fights. Wild Adventures is home to hundreds of exotic animals, some of which can be seen in up-close and personal encounters. The bird area has an array of engaging species, including friendly parrots and elegant Australian Black Swans. The park’s All-Star Amphitheatre, the area’s largest outdoor concert venue, hosts a variety of big names each season. Over the past few seasons, guests have been able to end their day of adventures with performances from

BY MARY WEST

artists like Lady Antebellum, Alan Jackson, Pat Benatar, Chicago, MercyMe and Toby Mac. The best part of the concert series is that it is included with park admission or a Season Pass, making it the best value for concert lovers and families alike. No theme park outing would be complete without a spectrum of tempting delectables from which to select. Patrons can opt for a leisurely meal in a restaurant or choose to grab a treat like frozen lemonade, ice cream or fried cheesecake.

UPDATES & IMPROVEMENTS Updates and improvements are ongoing. Since 2007, Wild Adventures has invested more than $50 million into the park for improvements and additions. It has added three water park attractions, 14 VIP cabanas, four family rides, six thrill rides, and more than a dozen new animals and animal interactions. Exciting plans are also in the works for the coming season. Starting March 15, 2014, the park will have even more opportunities for families to enjoy themselves and reconnect.

RECREATION, CELEBRATION & REFLECTION

Valdosta’s climate escapes winter’s bitter chill and gives residents an average of 231 gloriously sunny days per year. Such weather is the envy of many in other parts of the country, and it gives golf enthusiasts ample opportunities to indulge their passion. The city has three golf courses from which to choose.

KINDERLOU FOREST 229-219-2300 • www.kinderlou.com/index.html

Kinderlou Forest is quite an attractive course, offering lovely views of a pine forest as well as South Georgia dogwood and magnolia trees. Babbling brooks and a waterfall enhance the relaxing ambience, making the spot perfect for spending time on one of their five tees.

STONE CREEK GOLF CLUB 229-247-2527 (ext. 2 to schedule a tee time) www.gagolf.com

Stone Creek Golf Club has an 18-hole course built on more than 800 acres of gently rolling meadows and pristine woodlands. The golf course is part of Stone Creek Golf Community, an area that includes luxury residential properties and a restaurant along with tennis courts and a swimming pool.

VALDOSTA COUNTRY CLUB

229-242-3706 • www.valdostacc.com

Valdosta Country Club has a golf course with three distinctive nines that provide a challenge to golfers of any skill level. It has been carved out of woodlands and pines, creating a picturesque setting for teeing off.

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

TEE IT

RECREATION, CELEBRATION & REFLECTION

LOWNDES COUNTY FOR THE OUTDOORS ENTHUSIAST

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

owndes County offers much more than just terrific golf for those who love outdoor activity. Sportsmen and women looking for quality outdoor experiences can also look to the rivers or the region’s hunting and fishing clubs to embrace the call of the natural world. Fishing and boating on the rivers have been important recreational activities for Lowndes County’s residents for generations, largely due to ready access to the Little, Withlacoochee and Alapaha river systems. Herb Wyatt, a professional fish biologist who has worked for decades in South Georgia, explains that in the weeks immediately following the drop from flood stage, these rivers draw fishermen in force to pursue warmouth, largemouth bass, the rare Suwanne Bass and a hard-fighting panfish known locally as “redbreast.” And as the fishing slows down in late spring and early summer, these rivers draw recreational boaters. “It’s picked up over the years, the canoeing and kayaking,” Wyatt said. “Kayaking has become quite fashionable now. “People who have never seen these short river systems that drain into or head in the coastal plain are going to be totally surprised,” Wyatt continued. “I originally came to Georgia from Oklahoma, and I didn’t expect cypress trees and tupelo gums and all the types of swamp vegetation in the midst of rock riffles and rapids. You can get in places that look like you’re in the jungle, and then a few miles down the river you’ve got rock shoals, and there’s public access to all of these.” Whether you’re fishing or floating, the scenery can be exceptional. The Withlacoochee River runs within Valdosta’s city limits, and Wyatt describes the stretch from Valdosta to the bridge that identifies the Florida border as some of the prettiest river scenery of its kind. On Lowndes County’s eastern border, the Alapaha River provides views of unique rock formations as it transforms from a sandy-bottomed stream to high rock banks where the river digs into the bedrock. “It just has stretches of scenery that are worth the trip, even if you don’t fish,” Wyatt said. “But I always take a fly rod and manage to catch a fish or two.”

BY JAY NEHRKORN

Other premier fishing opportunities for residents can be had by joining one of the local fishing clubs or conservancies, which operate at privately owned natural lakes. These lakes are not only intensely managed to produce outstanding largemouth bass, crappie and brim, but many are also preserved to provide fishermen pristine natural surroundings. The same conditions that make Florida famous for bass fishing also apply in Lowndes County, and with the right management, these lakes can produce excellent specimens. “In these southern counties, all the way up to about Macon, you will get some bass growth year-round, provided they have food available,” Wyatt said. Quail hunting and the target shooting discipline of sporting clays are also popular activities for residents and visitors who enjoy the outdoor lifestyle and who don’t mind paying club or per-hunt fees. John Peek of Southwind Clays and Quail said that his clientele of sporting clays shooters is based primarily in Valdosta, and that the sport has become quite popular as a basis for area fundraising events. As for the quail hunting, South Georgia is nationally renowned for its high-end quail preserves, and Southwind has hosted guests from other states as well as international visitors. “It’s a tradition here,” Peek said. “People have always come to South Georgia to hunt quail.” Peek explained that beyond just tradition, the region can also offer excellent habitat for quail, provided that the land is carefully managed for the birds. Thinning stands of pines so that sunlight hits the forest floor and doing prescribed burns are the keys, promoting lush ground cover such as partridge pea and beggar lice, which both feed and shelter quail. Services at area quail preserves include guides and well-trained dogs, and often the outfitter can provide a shotgun for the day if traveling with a firearm is cumbersome for the client. And while quality habitat to hunt and excellent services come at a cost, the opportunity to pursue quail where the hunting tradition runs deepest makes South Georgia a destination for outdoorsmen and women.

RECREATION, CELEBRATION & REFLECTION

RECREATIONAL FACILITIES Valdosta-Lowndes County Parks & Recreation Authority 229-259-3507 • http://vlpra.com/

Amphitheater/Stage Baseball/Softball Basketball Boating Concession Stand Fishing Gazebo Grill Gymnasium Kitchen Media Room Meeting Rooms Multi-Purpose Field Nature Trail Picnic Area Playground Restrooms Shelter Skate Park Swimming Pool Tennis Volleyball Walking Track Water Play Area

EVERYBODY PLAYS IN VALDOSTA

hanks to Valdosta-Lowndes County Parks and Recreation Authority (VLPRA) and the Valdosta / Lake Park YMCA, everybody has the chance to enjoy physical activity and compete. VLPRA offers seasonal athletics leagues for kids, including sports such as soccer, T-ball, baseball, softball, flag football, tackle football and basketball. For the grown-ups, the department has men’s, women’s and co-ed softball leagues as well as basketball, and in 2014 they will add kickball. Activities for seniors at their senior center include an exercise room, indoor swimming, pool, billiards and dances. All of this is in addition to their special events like the 4th of July fireworks display and various 5Ks and bike rides. VLPRA’s Therapeutics program ensures members of the community with mental or physical disabilities are included in the fun. The program offers social activities as well as physical education, with participants having the chance to compete in the Special Olympics twice annually. Learn more at vlpra.com. The Valdosta and Lake Park YMCAs also provide opportunities for kids to enjoy competitive swimming and gymnastics, while their non-competitive, year-round Challenger League for children with physical or mental disabilities provides these youngsters a chance to play basketball, indoor soccer and baseball. Check out the YMCA’s full list of offerings at www.valdostaymca.org.

NAME ADDRESS

From Valloton Youth Complex • 2204 E. Park Lane • • • Industrial Boulevard • • 4377 Old Clyattville Road • • • • • • • • • 1104 W. Gordon Street • • • • • • 1401 N. Patterson Street • • 1904 Fawnridge Park • Wooding Land and Holiday Street • • • 1901 North Forrest St. • • • • • 3795 Guest Rd. • • • • • • • • • 401 Marette Avenue • • • • • 509 South Fry Street • Hightower and Magnolia • • 1804 Jerry Jones Drive • 700 J. L. Lomax Drive • • • • • 2306 J.C. Shack Road • • • • • 1151 River Street • • • • • • • • • • • • Highway 375 Lakes Boulevard • • • • Highway 41 North • • • • • • • 41 South • 112 Burton Avenue • • • • • • • 509 S. Fry Street • • • • • • • Highway 84 East • • • • 2211 Newbern St • • 7715 Sonny Rogers Memorial Blvd., Hahira • • • • • • • • 402 1/2 S. Patterson Street • • • • Highway 31 South • • • • • Highway 94 East/New Statenville Highway • • • • • • • Highway 84 East • • • • • • 1101 Old Statenville Road/Continental Drive • • • • • • • • • • • 1360 East Park Ave. • • • • • • 700 Cranford Avenue and Hillcrest • • • • • 507 E. Central Avenue Bird Hall and Hardy Road • • • 6440 Ocean Pond Avenue, Lake Park • • • • • • • • • • • • 2413 Bemiss Road • • • • Troup and Mary streets • • 804 Woodlawn Drive • • • • • • 1907 Gornto Road • • • • • • • • •

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

Azalea City Trail Bland Park Chitty Park Clyattville Community Park Craig Center Drexel Park Eastwind Park Fellowship Park Forrest Street Gym Freedom Park Greer Park Harrington Park Hightower Park Hyta’s Park J. L. Lomax Jaycee Park John W. Saunders Memorial Park Lake Park Library Park Langdale Park Lovett Park McKey Park Mildred Hunter Community Center Naylor Community Park Newbern Park North Lowndes Recreation Complex Olympic Park Oris Blackburn Memorial Park Payton Park Riley-Ledford Park Scott Park Senior Center Shannon Hill Park Smith Park Snake Nation Community Park South Lowndes Community Center Taylor-Cowart Park Tom’s Corner Park Vallotton Park Wood Valley Community Center

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

RELAX ENJOY THE MANY SIDES OF VALDOSTA SEE SOME HISTORY Part of Valdosta’s charm stems from the continued preservation of its historic architectural treasures. Dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, structures such as C.C. Varnedoe’s, Lowndes County Courthouse and Carnegie Library have been Downtown Valdosta landmarks for generations. And for those who love historic homes, North Patterson Street and the Victorian Fairview District are must-sees. Shown here is the Historic Roberts house on Wells Street, which was nearly lost to a fire in early 2011 but has been restored once again by The Valdosta Heritage Foundation. Learn more about historic tours at valdostamainstreet.com/activities or by calling the ValdostaLowndes County Convention and Visitors Bureau at 229-245-0513.

GET SOME PAMPERING! Whether you want your nails done, a new hairstyle or a whole day of pampering, Valdosta has salons and spas that can freshen your look and your attitude. Experience the ultimate in relaxation with Lemongrass

DO A LITTLE TREASURE HUNTING

Day Spa (www.lemongrassdayspaonline.com) as your luxury getaway.

Downtown Valdosta has antiques, boutiques, bridal stores, gift

Lemongrass Day Spa offers a wealth of rejuvenation by pampering your

shops and specialty stores, so a day of window shopping can yield

needs of massage therapy, body treatments, nail services and facials —

unique and hard-to-find treasures.

all designed to relax, reduce stress and tension, increase circulation, and influence healing!

Valdosta’s dining scene includes everything from the chain restaurants

CATCH A GAME

you love to locally owned restaurants with unique Georgia flavors. From

Valdosta State University athletics programs bring NCAA excite-

barbeque and steaks to international cuisine, and from swank surround-

ment to our community and make cheering on the Blazers a year-

ings to casual dining, the dozens of Chamber-member restaurants in town

round tradition. Spectators flock to the VSU campus to see football,

have whatever you’re in the mood for. Find your next favorite by visiting

baseball, softball, volleyball, soccer and, of course, men’s and wom-

the Chamber’s online directory at valdostachamber.com/directory.htm.

en’s basketball. Visit www.vstateblazers.com for ticket information.

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

GRAB A BITE

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS & PREFERRED BUSINESS LISTINGS ACCOUNTANTS

Sands Horizon, Inc. — See ad on Page 57

1195 Old Statenville Road Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 242-4025................. fax (229) 242-2605 sandshorizon@bellsouth.net

Fowler, Holley, Rambo & Stalvey, PC 3208 Wildwood Plantation Drive Valdosta, GA 31605 (229) 244-1559 cholley@valdostacpa.com www.valdostacpa.com

• Certified Public Accountants • Business Consultants • Serving Valdosta and South Georgia since 1956

Valenti, Rackley & Associates, LLC

Sands Horizon, Inc., is a residential living community for independent senior citizens aged 62 and older. Each apartment offers one bedroom, one bathroom, a full-sized kitchen, and spacious living and dining areas. ADVERTISING

Fairway Outdoor

369 Enterprise Drive Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 219-4489 terry.harkins@fairwayoutdoor.com

208 W. Park Avenue Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 247-8005 nick@vracpa.com

Gary R. Zeigler, P.C. — See ad on Page 24

AMUSEMENTS / RECREATION / ENTERTAINMENT

Peach State Summer Theatre — See ad on Page 65

Valdosta State University 1500 N. Patterson Street Valdosta, GA 31698 (229) 333-5307................. fax (229) 249-2602 www.valdosta.edu/psst

Peach State Summer Theatre, the Official Musical Theatre of the State of Georgia, presents professional musical theatre each summer on the campus of Valdosta State University. For information, please visit www.valdosta.edu/psst. APARTMENTS

Castlewood Apartments

700 E. Park Avenue Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 242-0806 castlewood@dewarproperties.com

The Links Apartments

609 N. Patterson P.O. Box 1389 Valdosta, GA 31603-1389 (229) 244-3262................. fax (229) 247-7286 www.grzeiglercpa.com

Georgia Printco, LLC

Certified Public Accountants and Business Consultants. The firm’s services include income tax planning and preparation; auditing; management advisory; estate, gift and trust; retirement planning and plan administration; software selection and training; payroll processing; and bookkeeping.

Georgia Printco is an award-winning digital print wholesaler of some of the world’s best banners, billboards, stand-up displays, signs, flags, vehicle graphics and dimensional signage available today.

90 S. Oak Street Lakeland, GA 31635 (229) 482-3428 www.georgiaprintco.com

ADVERTISING - TELEVISION

3715 N. Valdosta Road Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 333-0999................. fax (229) 333-0927 thelinks@invmgt.com www.thelinksapartments.com

Gated Community & Video Monitored, Fully Equipped Fitness Center, Resort-Style Pool, Detached Garages, Gourmet Kitchens, Barbeque Areas, Playground. Convenient to Valdosta’s Finest Golf Communities, Dining, Shopping and Moody AFB. ART GALLERIES

ADULT CARE/SENIOR LIVING

John’s Body Shop & Big Truck Repair 703 E. Hill Avenue Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 247-8698 johnsbodyshop@bellsouth.net

AUTOMOBILE DEALERS

Valdosta Toyota

2980 James Road Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 247-1920 hcolter@valdostatoyota.com

AUTOMOBILE REPAIR & SERVICE

Earl Copeland Garage, Inc. — See ad on Page 7

1000 N. Ashley Street Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 242-5795................. fax (229) 244-6795 earl@earlcopelandgarage.com

Specializing In: • Motor Tune-Up • Sales & Service of Auto Air Conditioner • Alignment • Brake Relining • Wheel Balancing • Motor Overhauling • Radiator Repairing • Automatic Transmission Repair

NE-RO Tire & Brake Service, Inc.

2311 S. Patterson Street Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 244-8353................. fax (229) 241-0714

South Georgia Western Star, Inc. 1221 Madison Highway Valdosta, GA 31606 (229) 245-8822 sgwsacct@windstream.net

Yancey Brothers WTXL TV - ABC 27

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Fellowship Home at Brookside — See ad on Page 80

1620 Commerce Boulevard Midway, FL 32343 (850) 893-3127................. fax (850) 576-1202 www.WTXL.TV

470 Fellowship Home Lane Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 244-9200................. fax (229) 242-7153 info@fellowshiphome.net www.fellowshiphome.net

WTXL ABC 27 is the official home of Valdosta and South Georgia’s ABC television network.

An assisted living community. Our unique amenities, superior personal care and beautiful country setting are tailored for senior assisted living at its finest.

Valdosta Mechanical Company

Heritage Healthcare of Crestwood — See ad on Page 38

415 Pendleton Place Valdosta, GA 31602 229-242-6868 ext 415...... fax (229) 242-5373 www.URREADY.com

Heritage Healthcare at Crestwood has a 5 Star Rating, and U.S. News listed us as one of the top nursing homes for the past two years (2012 & 2013). We provide skilled nursing and rehabilitation for short-term or long-term care.

Presbyterian Home & Retirement Community — See ad on Page 58

1901 W. Screven Street Quitman, GA 31643 (229) 263-6100................. fax (209) 263-6151 www.phgainc.org

• Skilled nursing care • Personal Care Center • Memory support • Rehabilitation services • Cluster homes • Studio apartments

AIR CONDITIONING CONTRACTORS 1810 E. Park Avenue Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 242-5670 kim@valdostamechanical.net

AIR MEDICAL TRANSPORT

Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts Attn: Roy Fricks 527 N. Patterson Street Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 247-2787 rfricks@turnercenter.org www.turnercenter.org

Art center/gallery offering rotating art exhibits, tours, art classes, gift shop, event rental space, concerts, touring Broadway shows, etc. Hours: Tues.–Thurs. 10-6; Fri.–Sat. 10–4. www.turnercenter.org. Free admission. ATTORNEYS

Air Methods Corporation — See ad on Inside Back Cover

Moody Law Firm LLC — See ad on Page 58

Air Methods, the nation’s leading provider of air medical transport, operates over 400 aircraft from more than 300 bases and serves South Georgia and North Florida from our Valdosta base.

Moody Law Firm serves clients in Georgia & Florida. Providing: • Estate Planning • Probate • Guardianship • Elder Law • Criminal Defense • Personal Injury • Family Law • DUI

74 Fischer Trace Newnan, GA 30265 (678) 371-5512 www.airmethods.com

AIRPORT

Valdosta-Lowndes County Airport Authority — See ad on Page 25

1750 Airport Road, Suite 1 Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 333-1833................. fax (229) 245-8153 www.flyvaldosta.com

Airport — Commercial service and General Aviation

2904G North Patterson Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 460-3035 www.moodylawfirm.net

AUTOMOBILE BODY REPAIRING & PAINTING

Busick’s Automotive — See ad on Page 7

1714-B Gorito Road Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 241-8346................. fax (229) 241-8820 busicksautomotive@mediacombb.net

2966 Highway 84 West Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 242-8610 danny_west@yanceybros.com

BAKERY

Martin’s Famous Pastry Shoppe, Inc. 1000 Potato Roll Lane Chambersburg, PA 17202 (800) 548-1200 dwenrick@mfps.com www.potatorolls.com

American family owned and operated, Martin’s bakes the #1 branded roll in the United States. Look for our Famous Potato Rolls and Breads in your local grocery store! BANKS

Citizens Community Bank

3261 N. Valdosta Road Valdosta, GA 31604-3788 (229) 242-2225................. fax (229) 241-0123 www.citizenscommunitybank.net

Citizens Community Bank has four branches (Hahira, Morven, North Valdosta and Baytree) and provides top-notch customer service on all its personal and business accounts, loans, CDs and IRAs.

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS & PREFERRED BUSINESS LISTINGS CONSUMER PACKAGING

Ring Container Technologies — See ad on Page 21 First Federal Savings of Valdosta P.O. Box 888 Valdosta, GA 31603 (229) 244-0164 www.1stfederalvaldosta.com

First Federal Savings & Loan has been proudly serving the Valdosta-Lowndes community for 80 years. Offering a variety of products including checking, savings, mortgage and consumer loans, and online and mobile banking.

Southland Church

2206 E. Hill Avenue Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 245-8188 jvrboncic@southlandchurch.net

Whether you’re new to Valdosta, looking for a church family, or simply seeking more meaning to your life and purpose in God, we believe you can find it here at Southland Church. CLEANING - INTERIOR

Southwest Georgia Bank

3500 N. Valdosta Road Valdosta, GA 31604 (229) 244-4444................. fax (229) 244-9444 stan.fillion@sgfc.com www.sgfc.com

Southwest Georgia Bank has served South Georgia for 85 consecutive years. We understand the needs of South Georgians because we live here. We have six convenient locations to serve you with the progressive products you expect, delivered with the personal attention you deserve.

U.S. Cleaning Services Etc, Inc. P.O. Box 1652 Valdosta, GA 31603 (877) 570-2908 usserviceetcinc@bellsouth.net

Janitorial Services CLUBS

2804C North Oak Street Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 241-8925

CHURCHES

Abundant Life Church of God — See ad on Page 61 3419 Knights Academy Road Valdosta, GA 31605 (229) 242-4252 abundantlifeval@gmail.com www.abundantlifevaldosta.com

“Abundant Life — A Place of Restoration and Hope. We believe God wants to bring restoration and hope to all people through the power of His Son Jesus Christ!”

First United Methodist Church of Valdosta — See ad on Page 7

220 North Patterson Street P.O. Box 1306 Valdosta, GA 31603 (229) 242-4050................. fax (229) 242-8791 www.valdostafirstumc.org

Come and join us at First United Methodist Church Valdosta! You will become part of the family as we worship God together!

Valdosta Country Club

3500 Country Club Road Valdosta, GA 31605 (229) 242-3706 cary@valdosta-country-club.com

Private club offering • Three 9 hole courses • Tennis Club • Fitness Center • Aquatic Center • Casual and fine dining Banquet, Events & Meeting professionals to help plan special occasions up to 700 guests. Membership opportunities that fit all lifestyles. COMPUTER & EQUIPMENT DEALERS

Nexxtep Technology Services, Inc. 3256 North Valdosta Road Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 671-1513 pnichols@nexxtep.com

Sean Strickland-IT Guy

6334 Union Road Hahira, GA 31632 (229) 834-5680 sean@seanstricklanditguy.com

Northside Baptist Church of Valdosta 200 E. Park Avenue Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 242-4940 cathyp@nbcvaldosta.org

CONTAINERS -PORTABLE OFFICES

Cowart & Son Storage Trailers, Inc./ Well Drilling, Inc. — See ad on Page 65

2317 Old Clyattville Road Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 247-6466................. fax (229) 244-2344 storage@cowartvaldosta.com www.cowartandsonstorage.com

STORAGE: Containers & Portable Offices for rent, sale, pick-up and delivery. Prompt, quality & service always come first. WELL DRILLING: Locally owned & operated for over 30 years. Specializing in Residential Well Drilling for Valdosta & surrounding counties. CONTRACTORS

Slone Associates, Inc. — See ad on Page 63

835 Gil Harbin Industrial Boulevard Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 244-6709................. fax (229) 244-7778 wslone@sloneassoc.com

Commercial and Industrial Contractors

CHIROPRACTORS

Care Medical Center & Chiropractic

1699 Clay Road Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 219-7669................. fax (229) 219-8442 www.ringcontainertechnologies.com

CONFERENCE CENTER

Valdosta-Lowndes County Conference Center & Tourism Authority — See ad on Page 69

The Rainwater Conference Center offers great space, flexible sets and a beautiful outdoor venue overlooking a lake. Parking is on site and complimentary with your booking.

2405 Remiss Road Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 333-2351................. fax (229) 333-2353 www.peacewaycms.com

PeaceWay Counseling & Mediation Services believes in providing quality services. Our mission: to empower individuals/families to build healthy relationships with a variety of services and life skills programs. Insurance accepted. CUSTOM CABINETS

S & S Woodworking — See ad on Page 48

5015 Inner Perimeter Road Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 244-6362................. fax (229) 259-9335 www.sandswoodworking.com

S & S Woodworking specializes in building custom cabinets. We use all domestic plywood and “real” wood for our cabinets. In business for over 20 years! DANCE INSTRUCTION

Motion Dance Studios

3123 North Oak Street Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 247-5555 motiondancestudios@gmail.com www.motiondancestudios.com

Motion Dance Studios offers classes in Ballroom and Latin Dancing, Pole Fitness, Belly Dancing, Zumba, Wedding Dances, Ballet, Tap, Lyrical, Hip-Hop, and more! No dance partner or experience needed. We welcome walk-in students!

3362 Greystone Way Valdosta, GA 31605 (229) 561-4808................. fax (229) 242-8860 www.WorthingtonFamilyDentistry.com

Worthington Family Dentistry is a wellestablished dental practice, offering complete dentistry for the entire family, including cleaning, free whitening, orthodontics, treatment for TMJ, Botox and Juvederm. DEPARTMENT STORES

Wal-Mart Supercenter #2615 — See ad on Page 66

3274 Inner Perimeter Road Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 253-0312................. fax (229) 253-1310 www.walmart.com

Save Money. Live Better. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Valdosta Lowndes Industrial Authority — See ad on Page 27

2110 N. Patterson Street Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 259-9972................. fax (229) 259-9973 aschruijer@ibuildlowndes.com

The Valdosta-Lowndes County Industrial Authority is the economic development agency for Valdosta-Lowndes County Georgia. Our mission is to create an environment to attract new industry and promote the growth of existing industry to drive job creation and capital investment. EDUCATION

Open Bible Christian School — See ad on Page 44

3992 N. Oak Street Ext. Valdosta, GA 31605 (229) 244-6694................. fax (229) 244-1687 www.openbiblechristianschool.org

Open Bible Christian School is a fully accredited, nonprofit educational institution providing classes for students in K3 through 12th grade. We are a ministry of Open Bible Baptist Church.

Valdosta State University — See ad on Inside Front Cover

1500 N. Patterson Street Valdosta, GA 31698 (229) 333-5791................. fax (229) 333-5482 www.valdosta.edu

Thirteen thousand students attend this comprehensive university recognized for its quality academics, caring faculty, fine arts, beautiful campus and national championship teams. Colleges of Arts, Arts and Sciences, Business Administration, Education, and Nursing. EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES

Express Employment Professionals — See ad on Page 18

1712 Gornto Road Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 293-0030................. fax (229) 293-0035 www.expresspros.com/valdostaga

Express Employment Professionals is a full-service employment business providing qualified personnel to meet our clients’ needs to become more efficient, effective and profitable. We are locally owned and operated.

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

1 Meeting Place Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 245-0513................. fax (229) 245-5240 www.visitvaldosta.org www.RainWaterConferenceCenter.com

COUNSELING

PeaceWay Counseling & Mediation Services — See ad on Page 39

DENTISTRY

Worthington Family Dentistry, PC — See ad on Page 5

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS & PREFERRED BUSINESS LISTINGS

New Hire Solutions — See ad on Page 29

174 Big Star Drive Thomasville, GA 31757 (229) 227-9003 landis@newhiresolutions.net facebook.com/NewHireSolutionsValdosta

Staffing Services, Payroll Services, Temporary Staffing, Temp to Hire, Direct Hire, Drug Screening, Criminal Background Checks, Employment Verification, Workers’ Compensation, Medical, Clerical, Sales, Manufacturing, Skilled and Unskilled Labor, Drivers.

Pro Service Staffing — See ad on Page 15

108 West Hill Avenue, Suite D Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 247-5588................. fax (229) 247-5898 www.proservicestaffing.com

Personalized attention, custom solutions and exceptional service set us apart from other agencies. We have the resources, experience and agility to solve your staffing and payroll challenges with innovative solutions. ENTERTAINMENT

Little Actors’ Theatre of Valdosta, Inc. P.O. Box 3601 Valdosta, GA 31604 (229) 292-4742 tovardiane@hotmail.com

EQUIPMENT SALES / SERVICE / PARTS

Georgia Power Valdosta Federal Credit Union — See ad on Page 16

Azalea Health — See ad on Page 36

A not-for-profit financial cooperative serving employees of companies throughout the greater Valdosta area. Contact us to learn how you can give your employees the added benefit of credit union membership at no cost to you.

Azalea Health provides cloud-based health information technologies and tech-enabled services that allow health care professionals to streamline workflow processes by uniting both the clinical and financial aspects of a medical practice.

1707 Dow Street Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 253-1111................. fax (229) 293-9174 www.gpvfcu.com

FINANCIAL PLANNING CONSULTANTS

Bush Wealth Management 2225 Bemiss Road, Suite D Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 247-1474 kent.patrick@lpl.com

FIRE PROTECTION SERVICES

Georgia Automatic Sprinkler Co., Inc. 1405 Harbin Circle Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 247-9939 gasv@bellsouth.net

FLYING SERVICE

Valdosta Flying Service — See ad on Page 13 2626 Madison Highway Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 242-3175 www.vfs.aero

Learn to fly at Valdosta Flying Service! We also offer aircraft fuel sales, hangar storage, pilot supplies, chart sales and many other aviation support services. FORK LIFTS

Nashville Tractor

4342 N. Valdosta Road Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 242-9900 leeboat@live.com www.NashvilleTractor.com

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Serving South Georgia and North Florida for 25 years as a provider of sales, parts and service for any type of agricultural, construction and residential equipment. We pride ourselves on personal service and friendly assistance. Locally owned and operated. Built on hard work, good ethics and great service.

FARM SERVICES

Coggins Farm Supply Georgia, LLP 240 Coggins Farm Road Lake Park, GA 31636 (229) 559-7972 geraldc@cogginssupply.com

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

First State Bank & Trust — See ad on Page 1 3650 Inner Perimeter Road P.O. Box 4810 Valdosta, GA 31604 (229) 242-5725 www.fsbtc.com

First State Bank and Trust Company, serving South Georgia since 1906, is a division of Synovus Bank, Member FDIC. Visit one of our convenient locations to experience the Synovus difference.

Southern States Toyotalift

1865 Business Parkway Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 247-8377...................fax (229)245-7299 mlewis@sstlift.com www.sstlift.com

Southern States TOYOTAlift has been successfully serving the material handling industry for over 60 years in Central Florida and Georgia. GOING THE EXTRA MILE for our customers. FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES

McLane Funeral Services — See ad on Page 37

2215 Patterson Street Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 242-5544................. fax (229) 245-0949 www.McLaneCares.com

Family owned since 1936, McLane Funeral Services in Valdosta, Hahira and Lake Park have an on-site crematory and cemetery in this area. Offering burial, cremation, preplanning, grief support and merchandise. www.McLaneCares.com. FURNITURE

Farmers HOME Furniture Co. 3135 N. Ashley Street 5 Pts. Center Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 244-0928 store36@farmersfurniture.com

Home furnishings, bedding, appliances and electronics, accessories, lamps and seasonal merchandise. Convenient in-store charge accounts with interest-free options. Brand names, with over 180 stores in the Southeast to serve you. We are an employee-owned, Georgia-based company.

HEALTH CARE 105 W. Central Avenue Valdosta, GA 31601 (877) 777-7686................. fax (866) 683-8679 www.AzaleaHealth.com

South Georgia Medical Center — See ad on Page 33

2501 North Patterson Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 259-4107................. fax (229) 333-1072 www.sgmc.org/awards

SGMC is the regional referral medical center for South Georgia, providing the most advanced diagnostic technologies; women and children services; cancer treatment, including clinical trials; and cardiac care, including open-heart surgery.

South Georgia Vein Centers — See ad on Page 41 3338-L1 Country Club Drive Valdosta, GA 31605 (229) 259-9666 valdostaveins.net

Let the doctor tell you how state-of-theart medical techniques can improve your health and quality of life by eliminating pain, swelling, cramps, restlessness and unsightliness in your legs.

HEALTH CARE - HOME HEALTH

UniHealth Source of Valdosta 312 Canna Drive Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 241-8750 tlucas@uhs-pruitt.com

HEALTH CARE - REHABILITATION

Azalea Rehab Services — See ad on Page 37

2717 Windemere Drive, Suite A Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 244-1667................. fax (229) 244-8253 www.azalearehab

Providing Quality Speech and Swallowing Therapy services for pediatrics and adults. HOSPICE

Bethany Hospice — See ad on Page 41

2517 Bemiss Road, Suite D Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 249-8687................. fax (229) 249-9282 mgraham@bethany-hospice.com

To promote and facilitate the highest possible quality of life during a life-limiting illness. To ably and compassionately assist families during the bereavement process, and to continuously exemplify the hospice philosophy of preserving patient choice and patient dignity. HOTELS

Southern OB-GYN Associates, PC — See ad on Page 34

220 Northside Drive Valdosta, GA 31602 229-241-2800................... fax (229) 245-0445 www.southernobgyn.net

Southern OB/GYN provides specialized care for women in the areas of gynecology, obstetrics and infertility evaluation. We strive to provide the highest-quality health care in a professional setting.

Southern Pediatric Clinic, LLC — See ad on Page 39

406-M Northside Drive Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 241-0059................. fax (229) 241-2088 www.southernpediatricclinic.com

Southern Pediatric Clinic was established with the mission to promote healthy lifestyles in infants, children and teenagers and to offer high-quality care of acute and chronic illnesses in a caring and professional environment.

United Hospice — See ad on Page 59

407 Cowart Avenue Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 242-1187................. fax (229) 242-0562 www.united-hospice.com

Valdosta Medical Clinic — See ad on Page 35

3207 Country Club Drive Valdosta, GA 31605 (229) 242-8480................. fax (229) 241-0252 www.valdostamed.com

Valdosta Medical Clinic has served the medical needs of South Georgia and North Florida since 1989. We specialize in internal medicine, gastroenterology and cardiology. With our staff of 13 physicians, three nurse practitioners and 85 dedicated employees, we are committed to providing our patients the highest quality of care available anywhere.

Econo Lodge

3022 James Circle Valdosta, GA 31602 229-671-1511 gm.ga374@choicehotels.com www.econolodgevaldosta.com

Interior Corridors, Free Continental Breakfast, Pool, Free High-Speed Internet, ExtendedStay Rooms with Kitchenettes, Pet Friendly.

Holiday Inn Hotel & Conference Center — See ads on Pages 23, 72

I-75 (Exit 16) & Highway 84 1805 West Hill Avenue Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 244-1111 Toll Free Reservations (800) 465-4329 stay@hivaldosta.com www.williamshotelgroup.com

• Azalea’s Restaurant & Lounge. • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Room Service. • Meeting & Banquet Space for up to 200. • 160 Contemporary Guest Rooms. •M icro-Fridge & 32” & 40” Flat Panel HD TV with HBO in all Rooms. • Wired & Wireless Internet. • Family, Executive & Jacuzzi Suites.

Sleep Inn & Suites - Valdosta GA — See ad on Page 65

3026 James Road Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 671-1111................. fax (229) 671-1119 www.sleepinnvaldosta.com

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS & PREFERRED BUSINESS LISTINGS

Williams Hotel Group/ Williams Investment Company — See ads on Pages 23, 72

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS

HOUSING / APARTMENTS

The Residences at Five Points — See ad on Page 49

100 Garden Lane Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 293-7317................. fax (229) 333-8036 www.theresidencesatfivepoints.com

The Residences at Five Points is a new apartment community located minutes away from the Valdosta State University and Moody Air Force Base. We offer one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and countless amenities, such as a resort-style swimming pool, media theater, 24-hour fitness room, and gaming room with billiards and ping pong.

Stony Creek, Inc. — See ad on Page 29

174 Big Star Drive Thomasville, GA 31757 (229) 228-4617 landis@newhiresolutions.net

MANUFACTURERS

P.O. Box 1362 Valdosta, GA 31603 (229) 293-0800................. fax (229) 293-0103 www.cjbindustries.com

Independent supplier of choice for chemical manufacturing services, formulating, processing, filling and packaging liquids and solids products for Industrial market customers, with a focus on tolling and contract packaging.

INSURANCE

Blanton & Griffin Insurance Agency — See ad on Page 17

2314 N. Patterson Street P.O. Box 1689 Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 247-6500................. fax (229) 333-8472 email@blantongriffin.com www.blantongriffin.com

Blanton & Griffin is an independent insurance agency that has built its tradition of excellence for 80+ years by working to protect individuals/businesses that have placed their faith in us.

Brooker Insurance Agency, Inc. — See ad on Page 61

2406A Remiss Road Valdosta, GA 31604 (229) 242-2099................. fax (229) 242-3868 www.brookerinsurance.org

Our agency has been servicing this area since 1997. We are an independent agency, utilizing multiple carriers to meet the needs of our clients in the best possible ways. We offer: • home • auto • boat • motorcycle • RV • commercial coverages

Robinson Agency, Inc. — See ad on Page 61

1101 West Alden Avenue Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 244-7788................. fax (229) 247-7859 brobinson@robinsonagencyinc.com

By representing policies from the best providers for both your personal and business needs, we offer you real value on the options and the prices for which you are looking.

P.O. Box 895 Valdosta, GA 31636 (229) 292-3721 carlcinc@gmail.com

Our office provides all Janitorial services. Our services include cleaning, carpet cleaning, VCT strip/wax, and natural stone care as well as supply sales. Our clients include churches, office and industrial. ”We Help Your Business Succeed”

Shop – Drop – Give for Life! Drop items you don’t need; shop for items you do! We pick up! Profits fund Options Now, A Life Choice Clinic.

OPTICAL GOODS

DuPont Crop Protection — See ad on Page 19

2509 Rocky Ford Road Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 242-8635................. fax (229) 789-3270 www.dupont.com

Eye Associates of South GA., L.L.C. 3024 N. Patterson Street Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 247-4114 gfoster@completeicare.com

Our services include routine eye examinations, advanced diagnostic procedures and medical/surgical treatment for most eye diseases and conditions. Our Out-Patient Surgery Center is Medicare approved. ORGANIZATIONS

Behavioral Health Services of South GA 3120 N. Oak Street Ext., Suite C Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 671-6109 abarrett@bhsga.com

DuPont Crop Protection and the employees of the Valdosta Manufacturing Site are proud to be a part of the Valdosta/Lowndes County Community.

T M Poly-Film, Inc.

503 Gil Harbin Industrial Boulevard Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 247-7734 danny@tmpolyfilm.com

NATURAL GAS

SCANA Energy is one of the largest natural gas providers in Georgia. We are committed to providing excellent customer service, offering competitive natural gas pricing and supporting our local community. NURSING HOMES

Heritage Healthcare at Holly Hill 413 Pendleton Place Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 244-6968 markdaniels@uhs-pruitt.com

Holloway Orthodontics offers various plans, including Invisalign. Call us to schedule your complimentary consultation! Our practice boasts state-of-the-art equipment and a caring, professional staff in a friendly, inviting environment. PEST CONTROL SERVICES

Astro Exterminating Services, Inc. 1708 Gornto Road Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 244-6882 astro2@bellsouth.net www.astroexterminatins.com

Recognizing and eliminating termites and pests since 1969. PHARMACY

2704 N. Oak Street Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 244-5353................. fax (229) 244-5357 www.HogansRx.com

CuraCare Health Services 3169 Inner Perimeter Road Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 253-1242 curacare@bellsouth.net

CuraCare Inc. is a nonprofit home health care company providing the highest-quality care to assist patients with coping with a disability or terminal illness.

Serving this area for over 30 years. Open Monday through Friday at 8:30 a.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. Free citywide delivery. Licensed Medicine-On-Time pharmacy. Medicaid and most 3rd-party Rx plans welcomed. Offering Parata Pass Compliance Packaging. PHOTOGRAPHY

Wes Sewell Photography — See ad on Page 2 303 N. Patterson Street Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 245-7346 www.wessewellphotography.com

SCANA Energy — See ad on Page 63

P.O. Box 26306 Macon, GA 31221 (877) 467-2262................. fax (478) 405-2004 www.scanaenergy.com

1525 Baytree Road, Suite 1 Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 293-1360................. fax (229) 293-1356 valdosta@orthodon.com www.hollowayorthodontics.com

Hogan’s Pharmacy — See ad on Page 37

Jacuzzi Luxury Bath

512 Highland Drive Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 671-7990 sherrie.tripp@jacuzzi.com

ORTHODONTICS

Holloway Orthodontics — See ad on Page 44

Easter Seals Southern Georgia, Inc. 610 N. Patterson Street, Suite A Valdosta, GA 31601-4650 (229) 247-6912 benglish@swga-easterseals.org www.southerngeorgia.easterseals.com

Easter Seals Southern Georgia provides exceptional services to ensure that all people with disabilities or special needs and their families have equal opportunities to live, learn, work and play in their communities.

Options Now, A Life Choice Clinic 214 West Park Avenue Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 333-0080 becky@optionsnow.org www.ONPartners.org

Donate, Volunteer, Get Involved A Christ-centered ministry, advancing the sanctity of human life and sexual purity; offering free pregnancy testing and limited ultrasound in a confidential and caring clinic.

Wes Sewell Photography specializes in portraiture, weddings and special events. Dedicated to capturing your most important moments, we’ll be there for the day you say “I do” and “I’m due!” PHYSICIANS & SURGEONS

Radiology Associates of Valdosta

2704 North Oak Street Bldg. E Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 333-9729................. fax (229) 247-2854 info@radiologyvaldosta.com www.radiologyvaldosta.com

With 65 years of experience, we serve the radiology needs of Valdosta and the surrounding communities by specializing in Digital Mammography, Neuroradiology, Diagnostic Radiology, Musculoskeletal Radiology, Nuclear Medicine, Pediatric Radiology, and Interventional Radiology.

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

JANITORIAL SERVICES

Commercial Cleaning Industries — See ad on Page 13

OFFICE DESIGN - SPACE PLANNING * OFS * Global * Indiana * Paoli * LazyBoy * and More! Office Supplies, Too! 15,000-Square-Foot Used Furniture Depot.

We provide lawn maintenance, hardscape design and installation, irrigation installation and repair, pressure washing, landscape design and installation, storm cleanup.

CJB Industries Inc. — See ad on Page 25

Repeat Boutique Thrift Store 285 Norman Drive Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 333-0063 Robin.DeRocco@gmail.com www.RepeatBoutique-GA.com

201 West Hill Avenue Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 244-0177................. fax (229) 247-3406

1221 West 4th Street, Suite 11 Adel, GA 31620 229-896-4511................... fax (229) 896-4710 Toll-Free Reservations (800) HOLIDAY

South Georgia’s Hospitality Headquarters! Hotels in Valdosta, Tifton & Adel include Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Comfort Suites, Comfort Inn & Suites, Country Inn & Suites, Days Inns, Super 8, & Howard Johnson.

OFFICE SUPPLIES

Lee Office Equipment

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS & PREFERRED BUSINESS LISTINGS

G. Saurina, MD, PC 2301 N. Ashley Street Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 245-0666

Valdosta Family Medicine Associates, P.C. 2412 N. Oak Street Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 244-1400 wcain@vfmapc.net

PICTURE FRAMES - DEALERS

The Herndon Company Real Estate — See ad on Page 53

We are a full-service real estate office serving Valdosta, Moody AFB and surrounding areas since 1953. Voted Best Real Estate of South Georgia for 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011 & 2013.

RE/MAX of Valdosta — See ad on Page 50

1601 Baytree Road Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 244-1143 carla@classicartandframe.com

Providing the finest-quality custom picture framing in the area at prices well below the national average, we also offer unique home accessories and art-related gifts. PLUMBERS

Plumbing Service Co. — See ad on Page 49

P.O. Box 1608 Valdosta, GA 31603-1608 (229) 247-1144................. fax (229) 247-8396 plumbingservco@bellsouth.net www.plumbingservicecompany.net

We are locally owned and operated fullservice plumbing company. Our mission is to deliver the highest standards of service, value and integrity to our customers. PLUMBING FIXTURES, PARTS & SUPPLIES

Valdosta Winnelson — See ad on Page 51

2517-H Bemiss Road Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 333-9700................. fax (229) 333-9755 scyoung@winnelson.com

The Valdosta WinSupply has the answers to all of your plumbing needs. Either new construction with our new showroom or repairs on your existing plumbing. Stop by and see us!!

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PRINTERS

Ezee Copy

1703 Norman Drive, Suite C Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 469-4362 valdosta@ezeecopy.com

REAL ESTATE

Coldwell Banker Premier Real Estate — See ad on Page 3

1108 Gornto Road Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 244-3535................. fax (229) 247-2477 www.valdostarealtors.com

We are a full-time real estate company. We specialize in Residential and Commercial real estate in the South Georgia Market. We are a USAA Preferred R.E. Company.

Serving Customers and Clients in the Metro-Valdosta Area with Professionalism, Dedication, and Satisfaction in mind; RE/MAX of Valdosta is “ABOVE THE CROWD.”

Crystal River Seafood

958 N. St. Augustine Road Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 249-9515 www.LoveThatSeafood.com

Family atmosphere, full-service family owned and operated restaurant serving fresh-cooked seafood at affordable prices. “Quality that’s clear to see!”

Dairy Queen

1836 West Hill Avenue Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 242-5446

Committed to serving South Georgia with unparalleled realty services for over 20 years. Get services you deserve from agents you can trust. REAL ESTATE APPRAISALS

Bajalia And Associates, LLC — See ad on Page 49

1810 N. Ashley Street, Suite 8 Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 293-0065................. fax (229) 293-0078 fbajalia@bajaliallc.com

We specialize in the Preparation of Real Estate Appraisals.

The Pool Store has been in business for over 30 years. We are a full-service Retail, Cleaning and Service Company. We now have two locations: one in Valdosta and one in Thomasville, GA.

Sew and So Fabrics — See ad on Page 39

601 East Park Avenue Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 333-2594................. fax (229) 333-9852 sewandsofabrics@bellsouth.net

Fabrics for apparel, quilting and home decor. Notions and patterns. Friendly, experienced, personal service. Sewing classes. Alterations. Sewing machine parts and repair. Vacuum service and repair. Scissors sharpening. RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES

Real Living Realty Advisors — See ad on Outside Back Cover

1817 Green Circle Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 259-0626................. fax (229) 259-9907 www.GetRealValdosta.com

The Pool Store

3363 N. Valdosta Road Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 247-6440................. fax (229) 247-6450 www.thepoolstore.net

1100 N. Patterson Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 244-1992................. fax (219) 245-6390 www.HomesInValdosta.com

1216 Baytree Road Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 247-2008................. fax (229) 247-4059 remaxofvaldosta@bellsouth.net www.remaxofvaldosta.com

Classic Art & Frame Co. Inc.

RESTAURANTS

Langdale Place

Denny’s Restaurant

1328 N. St. Augustine Road Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 253-9388 mmysels176@aol.com

If you’re open to some great American food at America’s Diner, we’re open for you. Come and see us for your fill of, well, whatever it is you’re in the mood for.

Olive Garden

1315 St. Augustine Road Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 244-9990................. fax (229) 244-5045

2720 Windemere Drive Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 247-4300 jp.brice@sgmc.org www.langdaleplace.com

Valdosta’s premier senior living facility, Langdale Place offers exceptional benefits for those seeking a carefree retirement experience. SCHOOLS

Valwood School

4380 Old U.S. Highway 41, North Hahira, GA 31632 (229) 242-8491 dcrane@valwood.org www.valwood.org

Independent college-preparatory school enrolling students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.

REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT

LRE Platinum Property Services

2410 Andover Drive Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 242-9293................. fax (229) 242-1604 twilson@lexusrealestate.com www.LexusRealEstate.com

Subway-Bemiss Road

4622 Bemiss Road Valdosta, GA 31605 (229) 245-8090 douglasodden@bellsouth.net

Property Management and Sales – 15 years of experience with commercial and residential properties. We treat your property like it is owned by us. Bookkeeping Services – SB services are our expertise. We invoice clients, collect funds, make deposits, pay bills and issue detailed records to our clients.

Our mission since 2002 is to provide Moody A.F.B. and local communities with a clean and welcoming atmosphere. Subway provides healthier options along with quality and flavor above the rest. Contact us for any of your CATERING needs.

RECYCLING CENTERS

1874 Clubhouse Drive Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 242-7700................. fax (229) 242-4747 www.texasroadhouse.com

Trademark Metals Recycling P.O. Box 672 Valdosta, GA 31603 (229) 242-7832 mxw@tmrecycling.com

RENTAL SERVICES

Wallace Truck & Equipment Sales P.O. Box 1286 Valdosta, GA 31603 (229) 219-7641 wallaceequipment@bellsouth.net

Texas Roadhouse — See ad on Page 36

• Hand-Cut Steaks • Award-Winning “Fall-Off-The-Bone” Ribs • Fresh-Baked Bread Served with Honey Cinnamon Butter •M ade-From-Scratch Side Items and Dressings • Ice-Cold Beer and Legendary Margarita RETAIL

Miller Hardware Company — See ad on Page 53

211 East Hill Avenue P.O. Box 98 Valdosta, GA 31603-0098 (229) 244-0924................. fax (229) 244-6687 www.whiteheadindustrial.com

Three locations to serve you. Commercial, Industrial, Homeowners

Wiregrass Georgia Technical College

4089 Val Tech Road Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 333-2100................. fax (229) 333-2139 angela.hobby@wiregrass.edu

SECURITY CONTROL EQUIPMENT

ADT Security Services, Inc. 2810 Sharer Road, Suite 30-B Tallahassee, FL 32312 (850) 251-0630 lawrencesmith@adt.com www.adt.com

Get 24-Hour Monitored Protection: For Burglary, Fire Safety, Flood Detection, CCTV, Carbon Monoxide SEPTIC TANKS & SYSTEMS

Carter’s Septic Tank Services 4952 Skipperbridge Road Hahira, GA 31632 (229) 242-9886

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS & PREFERRED BUSINESS LISTINGS SHOPPING CENTERS & MALLS

TRANSPORTATION - PERSONAL

WASTE REDUCTION

Advanced Disposal

1101 Hawkins Street Valdosta, GA 31601-7711 (229) 244-2466 matthew.parker@advanceddisposal.com

Lake Park Outlets

5327 Mill Store Road Lake Park, GA 31636 (229) 559-6822 p.perrin@mlgpllc.com www.lakeparkoutletsmall.com

Located off I-75, exit 5, 14 miles from Valdosta and bordering the Florida Line. A 245,465-square-foot Outlet Center with leisurely shopping and name-brand stores. Leasing is available. STORAGE HOUSEHOLD & COMMERCIAL

84 West Self Storage

1765 NW 3rd Way Jennings, FL 32053 (229) 241-7200 mitchell.brice@yahoo.com

TANK CAR REPAIR / SERVICE

Union Tank Car Company — See ad on Page 13

400 South Blanchard Street Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 244-4125................. fax (229) 259-9751 www.utlx.com

Anchoring the southeastern corner of the UTLX Repair Shop network, the UTLX Valdosta service shop provides comprehensive care for tank cars. Once released from Valdosta they are ready for trouble-free service.

Fourstar Freightliner, Inc.

1527 Madison Highway Valdosta, GA 31601 (334) 387-3180 sherriem@fourstarfreightliner.com

Four Star Freightliner, the Southeast region’s leading heavy- and medium-duty truck dealer that offers a variety of Freightliner, FUSO and Western Star brand trucks for both highway and vocational use.

YARN SHOP

Rabbit Moon Yarn

107 W. Main Street Hahira, GA 31632 (229) 794-8162 info@rabbitmoonyarn.com

UTILITIES

Colquitt Electric Membership Corporation — See ad on Page 21

273 Norman Drive Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 244-6893................. fax (229) 245-1157 www.colquittemc.com

Colquitt EMC is a member-owned electric cooperative which supplies electricity and other services to its members in Lowndes, Berrien, Brooks, Colquitt, Cook, Tift and Worth counties.

Georgia Power — See ad on Page 63 1731 Norfman Drive Valdosta, GA 31601 (888) 60-5890 www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Power is an investor-owned, tax-paying utility that serves 2.35 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Georgia Power is the largest subsidiary of Southern Company.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES UTILITY CONTRACTOR

ECG, Inc.

505 N. Toombs Street Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 244-2099 accounting@e-c-group.com

Radney Plumbing, Inc.

119 Blanchard Street Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 244-1967................. fax (229) 247-3245 dradney@radney.com

TIRE DEALERS

Wingfoot Truck Care 3491 Madison Highway Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 244-3179 mbaier@wingfootct.com

TRACTOR/TRAILOR SERVICE

J & M Diesel Repair Inc. — See ad on Page 21

1716 Old Clyattville Road, P.O. Box 1643 Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 244-0233................. fax (229) 244-0265 jmdieselrepair@hotmail.com

J & M Diesel Repair is a full-service truck repair facility. We also work on medium duty diesels of all makes. We are proud to have served the Valdosta area for 32 years.

AA Superior Transportation Company 511 N. Lee Street Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 253-9603 aasuperiortransportation@yahoo.com

TRANSPORTATION CONSULTANTS

Southern Shipping Solutions LLC 3470-G2 North Valdosta Road Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 249-0997 connie@sss4u.com

1619 Baytree Road Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 244-5052 baytreevet@bellsouth.net

Baytree Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinary medical facility dedicated to providing high-quality pet health and wellness services for your pet. Baytree Animal Hospital is moving to 2004 Baytree Road in the spring of 2014.

Hahira Veterinary Clinic — See ad on Page 7

600 Georgia Highway 122 West Hahira, GA 31632 (229) 794-0040................. fax (229) 794-0017 www.hahiravet.vetsuite.com

Hahira Veterinary Clinic strives to give your pets the best possible medical, surgical and dental care. Our staff would love the opportunity to provide service for you and your pet. WAREHOUSES COMMODITY & MERCHANDISE

Georgia Warehouses

2410 Andover Drive Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 548-8182 jim@devconholdings.com

WWW.VALDOSTACHAMBER.COM

TRANSPORTATION

VETERINARIANS - DVM

Baytree Animal Hospital

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Air Medical Transportation

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE