Valdosta Magazine Love & Marriage 2024

REAL WEDDINGS & Stories of Couples inLove

Photography

HERE COMES THEBride

Our special bridal section features stories of real weddings, provides wedding planning tips and advice, and highlights great local vendors ready to help you make your wedding day perfect.

That’ s Amoré

Photo of Whitney Wiggins and Garrett Lovell's wedding at Hallabrook Hill by Gandy Photographers

Three couples share their stories of love and insights from their marriages.

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Beautiful

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Alonso

68 Hurricane

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From the wedding reception of Chloe Harris & Hunter Corbett at Quail Branch Lodge featured in the “Real Weddings” section. Arrangement by Lynn Vallotton Floral Design. Photo by Wes Sewell Photography. 65

Trust the specialty providers of Southwell to help you turn a decisive corner in your weight loss journey. Traditional approaches to dieting and exercise are often effective, but when they aren’t, bariatric surgery can have a profoundly life-giving impact. Book your appointment today and we’ll meet you where you are in your health journey. Not only can you look and feel healthier, you can also recover faster than ever, thanks to state-of-the-art, minimally invasive surgical techniques. Take time to make an appointment with your Southwell provider today. It’s time well spent. Learn

Meet Lee Smothers, our new Marketing Director at SCIG. Lee holds dual Bachelor’s Degrees in Marketing and Business Management from Valdosta State University, bringing a wealth of marketing knowledge to our team. With a focus on creativity and communication, Lee is dedicated to getting to know our clients and enhancing our marketing strategies. We're excited to have Lee on board, confident in her ability to contribute to our team's success and client satisfaction.

Wayne Edwards, Financial Advisor; Lawton Lyons, Client Relationship Consultant; Jodi Myddelton, Registered Sales Assistant; Lee M. Smothers, Marketing Director; Clay Moseley, Financial Advisor; Justin Martin, Financial Advisor

A Guide to Marriage and Money

Love and money can be complicated, and finding balance is key. Here are some tips to find financial commonality before, and throughout, marriage.

According to research by Ramsey Solutions, money is the top reason couples fight. 41% of Americans with families cited money as a major source of tension in their households, as reported by Investopedia. Before you walk down the aisle, it’s important to have open conversations about finances. A few ideas to get you started:

BeforeOpen communication. Discuss your individual money values, attitudes and goals openly. Understand each other’s spending habits.

Be honest about your histories. It’s only fair for you and your partner to be truthful about your financial pasts. If your partner carries a lot of debt or has been through a bankruptcy, these facts may become obstacles when it comes to qualifying for a mortgage together or reaching other financial goals.

Determine how to manage your finances. Identify how you and your partner have managed your separate finances – and consider how you can play to each other’s strengths. There are several ways to manage your money as a couple, from splitting everything 50-50 to managing a household account with separate personal spending accounts.

RICHARD & MADISON (HAHN) MOSELEY, MARRIED OCTOBER 21, 2023, WITH JANET AND CLAY

Don’t start your life together in debt. You may have dreamed of a fairy tale wedding, but is it worth starting your new life in debt for the sake of an extravagant celebration? In addition to impacting your future finances, having more debt may shift your conversations about money toward the negative.

JASON & JODI MYDDELTON, CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF MARRIAGE IN 2024

Set Financial Goals Together. Establish short-term and long-term financial goals as a couple. This could include saving for a home, an emergency fund, retirement, or other shared aspirations.

DURING

Track your spending. It’s easier to keep your spending in check when you hold each other accountable. This step starts with creating a household budget, then being specific about spending from there.

Tell the truth about your purchases. If you tend to hide shopping bags from your spouse (one in three couples who argue about money have hidden purchases from each other), this could jeopardize your financial planning. If you and your spouse don’t have the complete financial picture, can you accurately manage it?

Plan for the Future. Consider the long-term aspects of your financial life, such as retirement planning, insurance coverage, and estate planning. Review and update these plans regularly. Dreams and aspirations change, which is why it’s important to have regular check-ins with your spouse and advisor about financial goals.

Remember, every couple's financial situation is unique, so it's important to tailor these suggestions to your specific circumstances. Regularly revisit and adjust your financial plans as your life and goals evolve.

The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation.

e from the PUBLISHER

Welcome to another year of Valdosta Magazine! It still seems like yesterday when we published our first issue in the fall of 2015. It was a little intimidating stepping into the shoes of Johnny B. Lastinger and the legacy he began as publisher. We hope he would be proud of what we’ve accomplished.

One thing is for sure – we have not done it alone! So many people have contributed and shared their gifts writing, photography, editing, and sage advice.

To continue producing a quality magazine every quarter and to grow the magazine’s reach we are bringing on some new, very talented, professionals to help in the content management, editing, and overall process of publishing Valdosta Magazine.

We’d like to introduce our new Assistant Editor, Amy Faeskorn. Amy and her family moved to Valdosta in the fall of 2022 from the Boston area. She has recently pivoted to freelance writing after a career in teacher training and educational consulting. "Writing has always been one of my passions," she says. "In the short time I've lived in Lowndes County I've experienced firsthand the kindness and generosity of the community. There are so many people here doing truly amazing things. I'm grateful for the opportunity to help share their stories."

Amy is already contributing in many ways in addition to writing. Many of you will be meeting her as she interfaces more with our writers, photographers, and friends.

If you’re enjoying Valdosta Magazine, please take a moment and look at the index of advertisers. They are the ones who make it possible. Let them know how much you appreciate it and SHOP LOCAL!

John & Connie Riddle

Amy Faeskorn

Welcome to Valdosta, where Southern hospitality meets

VALDOSTA is for COUPLES

Flowers are blooming, the sun is shining and warmer weather is here - there is so much to do this spring in Valdosta. Whether you’re in town for a weekend getaway, to visit loved ones, or even for a beautiful wedding at any of our city’s venues like the Rainwater Conference Center, Lowndes County is the perfect getaway for couples looking to kick back and relax, enjoy loads of thrills and everything in between.

FOR THE NATURE-LOVING COUPLE

South Georgia is known for growing a wide variety of produce, ranging from onions, cabbage, greens, peppers, strawberries and more. Despite being known as the peach state, Georgia is actually the largest producer of blueberries in the U.S.! One of the benefits of having so much produce grown right in our backyards is taking advantage of a day on the farm picking beautiful, fresh crops.

This Spring, check out GTB Farms, a u-pick grower that offers seasonal produce

by the bucket. The spring-time strawberry harvest attracts guests from across the area to pick juicy berries straight off the vine. For the sweetest strawberries, make sure you grab the red ones because unlike other crops, strawberries don’t ripen once they’re picked. As we get a bit further into the season, stop by Mallory’s Farm, a locally owned and loved staple where guests can pick their own pesticide-free blueberries by the gallon.

Once you’ve grabbed your hand-picked snacks, visit one of many parks and nature

trails to have a picnic, enjoy a trail hike and observe the scenic nature surrounding you. Drexel Park is known for its picturesque bridge, Oris Blackburn Memorial Park offers a large fishing pond with bass and bream, and McKey Park is home to 18 tennis courts.

For animal-lovers, you won’t want to miss Fifth Day Farm, an animal petting farm that is home to a variety of furry characters like Mootilda the mini High Park, Chip the llama, Diesel the rescue pig and more. Check the calendar of events because you might even catch a session of goat yoga.

FOR THE COMPETITIVE COUPLE

Looking for a friendly competition? Check out Skoll Axe Throwing, a growing pastime for people of all ages. Bring your closed-toe shoes and see who can score the most points throwing axes down the lane. Fairway Tavern offers a hole-in-one experience, combining chef-inspired meals with indoor golf simulators. The simulators allow guests to work on their golf game, review data from each swing and in just an hour, two players could hit 9 holes! If golf isn’t your strong suite, the simulators also have a multisport option with games like dodgeball, field goals and more than 13 interactive experiences to cater to every competitive spirit.

FOR THE ADVENTUROUS COUPLE

Looking to try something new? The Valdosta Wake Compound is a wakeboarding and wakeskating facility that sees some of the best competitors in the world and offers the perfect playground for beginners. The friendly staff are there to help you every step of the way.

If you’re looking for an adventure on the water, visit Southern Paddling Guide, a full-service kayak adventure down the breathtaking Suwannee River. The team has you covered with all the necessities and equipment needed so you can focus on soaking in the views and wildlife.

Mark your calendar as Georgia’s number one theme park, Wild Adventures, opens for the

season on March 15 and the water park opens just a few weeks later. Visitors will enjoy thrilling rollercoasters, roaring animals and special events like the Wild Adventures Easter Eggstravaganza.

FOR THE FOODIE COUPLE

Not only are there plenty of activities to keep you busy in town, but Valdosta is also home to delicious local restaurants.

If your favorite cuisine is Southern-style cooking, visit 306 North, a blend of Southern sophistication in a casual upscale environment. 306 North is locally owned and operated and the menu features locally sourced ingredients like fresh produce, cheese and farm-raised meats.

For the steak and seafood lovers, check out Jack’s Chophouse to enjoy perfectly cooked steak and wild seafood in an upscale casual setting. If prime rib, ahi tuna, ribeye or shrimp and smoked gouda grits catch your attention, this is the place for you.

For drinks and live music, visit Georgia Beer Company to sip on their award-winning brews. The Southern Cellar offers wine tasting flights in the heart of downtown. Downtown Social is a great spot for post-dinner drinks, bowling and games.

WHERE TO STAY

To complete your getaway, book a night in a quiet, cozy place to ensure top-tier relaxation. The McKey, a boutique hotel in the heart of downtown, reinvented an iconic building into an elegant hotel experience. With 12 unique rooms with king size beds, enjoy this one-of-akind experience. Airbnbs are also very popular in Valdosta, ranging from cabins to cottages to lake houses – there is an accommodation to fit every preference.

Valdosta is ready to welcome you for your next couples getaway – what will you do and where will you stay? Check out visitvaldosta.org for more resources to plan your next trip.

COUPLES WEEKEND

GETAWAY: 2ND ANNUAL VALDOSTA BLUESBERRY FESTIVAL

Date: Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20, 2024

Where: Uni Park Amphitheater

Cost: General admission is free, VIP tickets are available online

About: The second annual Valdosta Bluesberry Festival will bring plen of blueberries, brews and blues for the entire family to enjoy on April 19 and 20. In the heart of downtown Valdosta, enjoy two days of unforge able experiences including live entertainment, vendors with blueberry-themed merchandise, kids activities and the Bluesberry Olympics. To learn more, visit valdostabluesberry.com.

Mr. and Mrs. Scott Todd (Emily Singletary)

VCC Members (Parents of Bride):

Mr. and Mrs. Trip Singletary (Laura)

June 17, 2023

Madison Carter Photography

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Fausett (Haley Hogan)

VCC Members (Parents of Bride):

Dr. and Mrs. Ben Hogan (Leigh Ann)

December 16, 2023

Jordan Grimes Photography

Mr. and Mrs. Brett Whiddon (Anne McLeod)

December 30, 2023

Tina Guess Photography

Congratulations to Valdosta Country Club members who celebrated their weddings in 2023 at the Club!

Valdosta and surrounding communities,

I always want to share my appreciation for your continued support. We opened White Weddings 12 years ago. We have three stores now, one here and two in Tallahassee. The local support of the Valdosta community is always so humbling compared to a bigger city. We truly do everything we can to give you the best the bridal industry has to offer. We have added customization options to ensure every bride has a unique look. We believe this is why so many travel to our stores from hours away and why we are often told we offer the selection of a big city with small town customer service. Our community takes shopping local personally when referring us to others and we feel it every time. Our family thanks you!  When you send someone our way or tag us we feel it and we promise to take care of them!

Brooke White

VALDOSTA & TALLAHASSEE

whitewedbridal.com

@whiteweddingsvaldosta

Photography by Brittany Morgan Photography

Mo an a D

WHAT STORY ARE YOU GOING TO TELL?

Article by NATALIE ROBERTS | White Weddings, Store Manager

first and foremost, we would challenge you as a bride-to-be, or even as a guest offering moral support, that it’s “more than a dress.” If you’ve ever visited our store, you will hear and see that ideology reflected in everything we do! Your dress is an outward expression of who you are. It sets the tone for the story; what story are you going to tell?

What to expect when you’re shopping for your dress.

“More than a dress” is the concept that your wedding gown is not simply just something you wear once for a few hours. At White Weddings, we offer an experience that’s “More than a dress.” We partner alongside our brides and customers to encourage, uplift, and shower them with the help they need to make this journey as stress-free and joyful as possible!

We also give each bride “more than a dress.” Each bride is gifted with a special keepsake at their appointment that reminds the couple each year of marriage to focus on the blessings and what went well in their life.

Finding your dress is only the beginning of that journey!

At the end of the day, you only get to keep two things from your wedding: your dress and your pictures. You want to make sure you love yourself in your dress to be able to fully appreciate the photos taken on your special day. Both are an investment and something you can cherish for generations to come!

Knowing where to start can be overwhelming…

So that’s why we have the BEST trained stylists in the industry equipped with knowledge and creativity and ready to help you!

The best time to start shopping for your dress is 8-12 months prior to your wedding. We have found that this

To set up an appointment at White Weddings, please visit our website at www.whitewedbridal.com, call us at 229-244-9080, or message us on social media.

is the ideal time frame for production, shipping, and any necessary alterations. Booking a bridal appointment is so easy and is the building block of your experience. Once your appointment is set up, you are paired with an expert stylist who will guide you through an unforgettable experience!

Before your appointment, you are sent a personal lookbook of our entire selection of dresses (prices included) where you can get a good idea of the styles, fits, and looks we carry. Once you have favorited some looks you’d like to try on, they are pulled and ready to go in your fitting room to kick off your time with us! Each appointment is an hour and a half long, and we recommend inviting those closest to you whose opinions you treasure most.

The best thing you can bring to your bridal appointment is an open mind. Every bride is different, so it’s important not to compare yourself to other brides. You are a unique individual with your own visions, preferences, and figure. Be prepared for the reality of falling in love with a dress the first place you look. You don’t have to shop around at multiple stores to know you’ve found the right dress for you. Your stylist is there to guide you and help make your decision-making process an easy one.

Remember, your day is about you and your fiancé! Your opinions are the only ones that truly matter, and it’s about “more than a dress!”

It’s the beginning of the rest of your lives together! •VM

Photography by Jenna Lindsey Photography

CHANDLER & MAGGIE BARNES

Home Sweet Home

Story by MEGAN PIPER WHITE

GANDY PHOTOGRAPHERS

ALYCONE PLANTATION IS A WELLKNOWN WEDDING VENUE IN THE VALDOSTA AREA , but for Maggie Bird Barnes, it’s home! Having grown up there, Maggie always knew she would one day be married at their farm. “It’s such a special place,” she says. “My brothers were able to hunt and fish, and I loved being able to ride my horse.”

In fact, from their first date, Chandler and Maggie had a connection through their family farms and animals as well. They met after Chandler reached out to her on social media, and he planned a date for the very next day that surprised her from the start! Chandler had graduated from college and was living in Thomasville, and Maggie was a sophomore at Valdosta State University at the time. He picked her up for dinner, and instead of going somewhere in town, he took her to his favorite restaurant in Monticello, Florida, with plenty of time to get to know each other on the drive. Maggie shares, “I remember it like

/ Photography by

W“I think a lot of brides get lost in trying to create the perfect wedding. It’s really only about you marrying your person and while you do want everything to go your way, at the end of the day you’re going to be just as married.”

it was yesterday. After dinner, we rode to Thomasville, and he showed me where his family’s farm was and where he grew up. “He had me at ‘Do you want to go play with the baby cows?’” she laughs. “And that was it. We became each other’s best friend and have been together ever since.”

Chandler planned a meaningful engagement, reminiscent of their first date. Before Christmas, his mom asked the family to all meet for pictures at their home. Maggie remembers thinking it was something special because they had never done that before, but she didn’t want to

get her hopes up. “Chandler was waiting for me at my house in Valdosta so that we could ride to Thomasville together. He was driving so slowly and acting nervous. We turned down a road that wasn’t to his parents’ house, and I started crying as I recognized it instantly. It was the field where we went to see the baby cows on our first date. Getting engaged in a cow pasture doesn’t seem romantic, but that was our special spot. We went back to his house afterwards, and our families and best friends were waiting to celebrate with us.”

Their loved ones have been celebrating with them ever since, and their wedding day was no exception. They hosted the event on their property at Alcyone Plantation with catering by Covington’s. Wisteria Southern Floral Designs furnished the flowers and Gandy Photography captured every moment and detail. The bridal attire was from White Weddings with alterations and the custom-made lace jacket provided by Ruthanne Eldridge. The entertainment did not disappoint with Far 2 Fresh as the band and Bobby the Balloon Man on the dance floor creating fun favors. Their jewelry came from Steel’s Jewelry and Colliers; Maggie’s wedding band was her great-grandmother’s.

The Wedding Chicks planned the event, and as her mother is part of that business with Laura Hansen, Laura’s daughters assisted her for the day. Jimmy Towson officiated the ceremony, and Maggie’s aunt, Jan Brice, made the cake. “I really couldn’t have done this without my mom,” says Maggie. “She loves the whole planning process since she does this for other brides. She put so much effort and care into the details, and I’ll

OUR WEDDING

Married November 11, 2023

Wedding & Reception at Maggie’s Family’s Home Alcyone Plantation

Bridal Gown & Wedding Party Attire from White Weddings Valdosta

Catered by Covington’s Photography Gandy Photographers

Certain Jewelry by Steel’s Jewelry

SPECIAL DETAILS

Maggie's Wedding Band was her Great Grandmother’s

Her Mother was the Wedding Planner

Her Aunt made the Wedding Cake

never be able to thank her for all she did for me and Chandler. After nine months of my parents working almost every day to prepare their home, and then another month of clean up after Hurricane Idalia, it turned out better than we could have ever imagined.”

Maggie’s favorite part of the wedding was finally getting to see Chandler for the first time right before the ceremony. It was so much fun getting to spend the whole day with him knowing that they were starting their lives together and that from that night on, they would be together for the rest of their lives. Another special moment was right before she walked down the aisle with her dad. “We were peeking out at the ceremony and got to spend a little more time together, just the two of us. He held my hand so tightly as we got close to the front door. It was special for me and a moment that I didn’t expect.”

Their wedding day was a dream come true, and Maggie is especially thankful to have been married at home. “Valdosta is very special to me because of everything it has brought me: my best friends, schools, jobs and the many places that hold my best memories. I love the small town feel where everyone knows each other. I’ll never understand how people go off to college and say they’re never moving back. Thomasville is my new home now, but Valdosta will always be my home sweet home.” •VM

Secluded, romantic and unique beauty surrounds every corner…an unforgettable setting for an unforgettable wedding.

7601 Zeigler Road, SE / Lake Park, GA / 229-460-3156 melissa@quailbranch.com

to pamperING yourself before your big day with bridal Spa packages for you and your bridesmaids

LEMONGRASS DAY SPA OFFERS A VARIETY OF SERVICES:

Massages & CBD • Advanced Esthetics (chemical peels) • DERMAPLANNING • Steam Saunas (2)

Repechage Award Winning Facials • Hydra Facial MS, since 2014 • Pure Fiji, Exfoliating body scrubs

Repechage detoxing body wraps • Eyebrow Waxing &Tinting • Bikini & Brazilian Waxing

Jane Iredale Makeup (Brides & Bridesmaids Parties) • Foot Detox • Spa Memberships

South Georgia’s PREMIER FLORIST

Voted BEST FLORIST for over 20 years!

Creating EXCEPTIONAL DESIGNS & LASTING MEMORIES FOR BRIDES for over 20 years.

Wedding of Mckenzie (Sullivan) & Joseph Proenza

Photography by Clara Taylor Photography

2024 Tips & T nds

FOR WEDDING FLOWERS

Article by SUSAN MULLIS | Owner, The Flower Gallery Photography by CLARA TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY

fresh flowers have been an integral part of weddings for centuries and add a timeless finishing touch to your special day. Here are some of the latest tips and trends for weddings in 2024.

Book Your Florist Early: Find a reputable floral designer that shares your vision for your wedding. Make your first appointment with them well in advancetheir calendars fill up quickly.

More Flowers – Less Greenery: Bridal bouquets are changing to have less greenery and more flowers. Larger, fuller varieties such as peonies and dahlias are on trend, as are wispy blossoms such as butterfly ranunculus. All shades of blue are a favorite in 2024. The Pantone color of the year is "Peach Fuzz," so you will see many brides incorporating that shade into their designs.

Large Floral Displays: Brides are opting for very large, attention-grabbing floral displays such as ceiling installations hanging over guest tables or extra tall arrangements placed in the center of a room. Brides want the wow factor when guests enter the ceremony or reception space, so many are choosing smaller table arrangements to offset the boldness of a stunning focal point.

Pocket Squares for Groomsmen: Brides and grooms are loving the trend of placing boutonnieres inside pocket squares. A small corsage fits perfectly in this part of the jacket and can be made to complement the bride's bouquet.

Plan Ahead: Most importantly, plan early and secure all vendors so that you can relax and enjoy your big day! •VM

WTHOMAS FAUSETT & HALEY HOGAN

Game, Set, Perfect Match

Story by MEGAN PIPER WHITE / Photography by JORDAN GRIMES PHOTOGRAPHY

THOMAS AND HALEY (HOGAN) FAUSETT SHARE A LOVE OF THE GAME OF TENNIS , and their story actually began on the courts. Having previously seen each other while Thomas was assistant coaching the Valdosta Country Club ladies’ tennis clinics that Haley and her mother attended, they officially met while playing at Valdosta State with mutual friends in their college church group. They struck up a conversation that night, and from there, they learned how many times their paths had crossed before that moment, even discovering that their fathers attended the Mercer School of Medicine at the same time years before.

A highlight from their meeting is that Haley asked Thomas for his phone number so that she could have her mother’s tennis racket rewrapped, and Thomas played along even though he had recently worked on the racket in the weeks before. It was a nod to the playful relationship and love that lay ahead for them both.

When describing their wedding day overall, they shared, “It was a party. We danced, we laughed, we cried, and we felt right at home throughout the entire event. Our union wouldn’t be possible without the Lord’s hand covering it all. He’s the author of our story. Marriage is worthy of celebration. It’s rare these days to see it withstand the culture of

W“Our union wouldn’t be possible without the Lord’s hand covering it all. He’s the author of our story. Marriage is worthy of celebration. It’s rare these days to see it withstand the culture of today’s world.”

today’s world. Our wedding proves that we rejoice in this calling in our hearts. Two became one, and we accomplished that alongside the very best of friends and family.”

They originally called their wedding “A Very Valdosta Wedding” as they were adamant about using all Valdosta vendors if possible. They chose Valdosta because it’s the place where they fell in love. Their earliest memories as a couple were made here. Their first date was at Wooden Nickel Pub, their first kiss was on the golf course at Valdosta Country Club, and they’ve met friends and family for dinner and drinks at some of Valdosta’s most well-known restaurants over the years. No matter how far they went (with long

distance dating hundreds of miles apart before they got married), they knew they could come back to Valdosta and feel like time had stopped where it left off in their love story.

Their wedding ceremony was held at the First Methodist Church in Valdosta, and the reception followed at the Valdosta Country Club. Southern Occasions provided the florals, and Jordan Grimes Photography and Resolute Wedding Films captured the details of the event. Their jewelry came from Steel’s, and White Weddings Valdosta provided the attire for the bridal party and bride, even opening on a Monday for Haley to choose a new wedding dress when she realized two months before the wedding that she

didn’t love the one she had chosen before. The Company Band kept everyone on the dance floor all night long, and Davis Lastinger with McLaurin Lastinger Events was the planner that orchestrated it beautifully from the start.

When asked about their favorite parts of the day, they shared that it was dancing the night away with their friends and family. They realized that their wedding would be the only opportunity in their lives where all of “their people” were in the same room. They had University of South Carolina friends and colleagues in attendance as well as those from University of Florida, Valdosta and Adel friends and family, and family from Alabama. It was a melting pot of love and fellowship for them both. Also, watching Ben (Father of the Bride) take command of the stage was incredible. Haley shares, “we knew he’d perform a song or two, but no one expected the impromptu concert. Traditionally the father of the bride is just happy to host…not often would we say they come to entertain!”

Special traditions that Haley and Thomas embraced included having Haley’s grandfather’s ring sewn into the bouquet. He was the patriarch of her family and was well known in Valdosta. “He was a second dad to me, so having his approval of Thomas before he passed was an incredible blessing. December 16th was also his and my grandmother’s

OUR WEDDING

Married December 16, 2023

Wedding at First Methodist Church

Reception at Valdosta Country Club

Bridal Gown & Groomsmen Attire from White Weddings Valdosta

Catered by Valdosta Country Club

Jewelry Steel’s Jewelry Photography

Jordan Grimes Photography

FAMILY HEIRLOOMS

Grandparent’s Rings Sewn Into the Bridal Bouquet

Champagne Flutes Were the Bride’s Parents for Their Wedding

Haley’s Commissioned a Painting by her Grandmother to Give to her Mother at the Reception

worked on a special bouquet to paint, and we both wrote her letters that are secured to the back of the painting. After I threw my bouquet, I presented her with the painting of her own flowers, and she was so surprised!”

anniversary, so I was excited when the date worked out for our wedding date too. I know he was there with us.” Another interesting family element was that Haley and Thomas commissioned her grandmother to create a custom painting for her mom. “My mother worked so hard the past year planning the best day of our lives. I knew I wanted to “give her flowers” as a thank you. Her mother and I

Haley, being from Valdosta, feels strongly that it is so much of who she has become. To her, it’s a town that has reliable people, values, family, and faith, but also gives so much back to those that invest in it. Valdosta is home and always will be. Home isn’t just a mailing address for her, it’s the people and the experiences she holds in her heart. For Thomas, Valdosta brought him unexpected yet unforgettable memories and friends. It’s more than just the next town over for him now. It’s where he met his wife. It’s where he came to know his new family. It all started with the game of tennis, and for this Valdosta love story, it continues with love for all. •VM

Embark on a personalized journey with Weddings by Maryssa Scarcello, where wedding planning is more than a service; it's a unique experience tailored just for you. Picture your dream day unfolding effortlessly, each detail meticulously tailored to tell your unique love story. At Weddings by Maryssa Scarcello, we've cultivated meaningful relationships with exceptional vendors, ensuring a bespoke celebration that perfectly aligns with your vision and stays within your specified budget. With a commitment to transparent and open communication, we guide you through every stage, transforming your dreams into reality. Trust our skilled team to bring your vision to life, ensuring that your celebration reflects your individuality, style, and the extraordinary journey you are about to embark on together.

AS A SEASONED WEDDING PLANNING EXPERT, MY FOREMOST ADVICE TO CLIENTS IS TO:

• Begin the journey early, establishing a clear and realistic budget.

• The foundation of a successful wedding lies in thoughtful vendor selection, where I recommend carefully researching and selecting partners aligned with your vision.

• Communication is paramount—open and honest discussions with your partner and vendors ensure everyone is on the same page.

• Crafting a detailed timeline is essential for a smooth and stress-free celebration, ensuring no detail is overlooked.

• Personalization is key—infuse your unique story into the ceremony, decor, and overall ambiance.

• Be adaptable, prepare for the unexpected, and consider guest comfort to create a memorable experience.

• Prioritize self-care throughout the planning process, and don't forget to capture the moments with a skilled photographer and videographer.

Wendy

Ashley

Frankie

Courtney

Rachel

Ta esca s Unveiled

EXPLORING THE ART OF TABLE SETTING

Article by DEVAN B. MARTIN AND JACLYN B. HEARD | Perfect Settings

Photography by BRITTANY MORGAN CREATIVE COMPANY

In the heart of Valdosta, Georgia, Perfect Settings encourages entertainers of all ages to embrace the world of beautiful tablescapes. From everyday dinners to the most special occasions, the art of table setting has become a cherished tradition that binds generations together. In this article, we will explore the evolving trend of maximalism and the sweet embrace of nostalgia that have captivated our customers, making table setting a cherished part of their lives.

Tables Infused with Personality

Maximalism—characterized by bold colors, intricate patterns, and a mixand-match mentality—has taken center stage in the design world. Perfect Settings reflects this trend through its carefully curated collection of dinnerware. We aim to bring the latest trends in design to your table while staying true to our love for timeless tradition.

Herend: A Timeless Brand

As we explore the rich history behind the dinnerware lines at Perfect Settings, Herend stands out as a beacon of elegance and tradition. With roots tracing back to 1826 in Hungary, Herend porcelain has graced tables of royalty and dignitaries worldwide. The hand-painted patterns and meticulous craftsmanship make each piece a timeless work of art. Incorporating Herend into tablescapes not only adds a touch of regality but also connects Valdosta residents to a heritage that spans centuries.

A Nod to the Past with a Modern Twist

While maximalism celebrates the abundance of colors and patterns, the grand millennial aesthetic takes a more nostalgic approach. These two trends combined are the perfect storm for table setting! The grand millennial style has staying power and draws inspiration from the cherished elements of bygone

eras. It brings a sense of comfort and familiarity to contemporary tablescapes. Perfect Settings helps our brides capture this idea through dinnerware selections that complement pieces they may have already inherited, fostering a renewed appreciation for the art of table setting.

Mottahedeh Fun Facts

Among the treasures at Perfect Settings, Mottahedeh stands tall as an epitome of timeless elegance. Established in 1929, Mottahedeh has a reputation for exquisite reproductions of historical ceramics. The intricate detailing and refined craftsmanship make Mottahedeh pieces a perfect choice for those seeking to infuse their tablescapes with a sense of history and sophistication.

Your One Stop Shop

In Valdosta, Perfect Settings serves as a hub where the art of table setting becomes a personal journey for each customer. The trends of maximalism, grand millennial aesthetics, and nostalgia have breathed new life into the tradition of setting a beautiful table. We hand select each item that we bring into our store. When adding to your collection, our goal is to create a shopping experience that connects the past with the present. As Valdosta embraces the joy of tablescapes, each gathering becomes a celebration of art, family, friendship, and the enduring beauty found in the simple act of sharing a meal. •VM

Lynn Vallotton

FLORAL DESIGN

35 YEARS FLORAL DESIGN EXPERIENCE

CERTIFIED GEORGIA MASTER FLORIST AWARD WINNING FLORAL DESIGNER

LYNN VALLOTTON FLORAL DESIGN

SPECIALIZING IN WEDDINGS AND EVENTS Lvallotton@bellsouth.net

CHLOE HARRIS & HUNTER CORBETT

Timing is Everything

Story by MEGAN PIPER WHITE / Photography by WES SEWELL PHOTOGRAPHY

HUNTER AND CHLOE CORBETT’S LOVE STORY BEGAN IN 2015 when they were juniors in high school and were set up by mutual friends to attend a school dance together. The couple has been together ever since, and Hunter made it official when he proposed on New Year’s Eve in 2021. Chloe’s mother passed away in 2010, but her father, Tim, kept her mother’s ring for her to have when the time was right. Hunter asked for Tim’s blessing, and with wonderful sentiment and in memory of her mother, he had the diamond reset into a ring for Chloe at Steel’s Jewelry. Hunter and Chloe planned the wedding to be near their dating anniversary (and not during hunting season!), so they were able to celebrate eight years together on their honeymoon.

The wedding itself was held at Quail Branch Lodge. Covington’s provided the catering and their lemon blueberry cake was from Mrs. Bones’ Bakery. the florals were provided by Lynn Vallotton of Lynn Vallotton Floral Designs. White Weddings provided the wedding attire and Wes Sewell Photography captured the memories of their big day.

Susanna Harris, who is Chloe’s stepmother, was also their wedding planner. The coordinator of the venue on the day itself was Melissa Boatenreiter. “Susanna helped us plan our big day down to every detail, and it made the experience so enjoyable.” All of the vendors worked together to create the wedding day of their dreams!

Their big day was everything they had imagined. The guys were able to play pool and shoot clays that morning at the Lodge while Chloe got ready with her sisters and lifelong friend. After the private ceremony with their family, the bride and groom were able to have dinner together alone before the reception began. Self-professed as not the best of dancers, they met with Gaye George to have a fun, choreographed first dance. Chloe completed her attire with pearls, and the veil was her “something borrowed” from her bridesmaid and lifelong friend Morgan, who wore it on her own wedding day. A special detail of the celebration was that Tim, Chloe’s father, shared cigars from Stogies

Downtown with the guests at the reception as well.

Quail Lodge was their location of choice for the wedding because they have many great memories in Valdosta and most of their families are from the area. They’re both from Valdosta and enjoy date nights downtown and hunting in Lowndes County. They attend Park Avenue Church, which is the church that Hunter grew up in. Their favorite part about it is the close community and the feeling of home.

Chloe and Hunter are settled in Valdosta with their two dogs, Beau the beagle and Jasper the greyhound. Chloe works with her father and his KFC businesses, and Hunter works at The Herring Farms in Lake Park doing a little bit of everything. Looking back at their wedding experience, they mention how meaningful their premarital counseling with officiant Nick Kudyk was for them both. The couple feels it brought them closer to God and to one another while helping prepare them for what married life would be like in the future. “It’s better than what we could’ve imagined, and we look forward to many happy years to come!” •VM

OUR WEDDING

Married March 4, 2023

Wedding & Reception at Quail Branch Lodge

Bridal Gown & Wedding Party Attire from White Weddings Valdosta

Catered by Covington’s Photography

Wes Sewell Photography

Flowers by Lynn Vallotton Floral Design

The wedding band was Chloe's late mother's who passed away in 2010

“Our premarital counseling brought us closer to one another and to God while preparing for what married life would be like in the future.”

TO THE BEGINNING OF YOUR HAPPILY EVER AFTER! WE PLAN, YOU PACK

Article by CLAIRE WALTON | Owner, Palm Travel Group Georgia

Planning your dream honeymoon?

Consider the benefits of using a travel agent to make your romantic getaway even more special! While you might be tempted to book everything online, a travel agent can offer personalized expertise and save you time and stress.

Here are some reasons why the right travel agent is your best ally for planning the perfect honeymoon:

Expert Advice: Think of your travel agent like your personal honeymoon concierge, armed with insider knowledge about the most romantic destinations, luxurious resorts, and hidden gems. They can recommend destinations that match your preferences, whether you dream of lounging on a secluded beach, exploring a vibrant city, or embarking on an adventurous escapade.

Customized Itinerary: Say goodbye to cookie-cutter packages! Have someone craft a tailor-made itinerary just for you and your partner, considering your budget, interests, and desired level of relaxation or adventure. An agent can take care of all the details, from flights and accommodations to activities and special touches, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience.

Time and Stress Saver: Planning a honeymoon can be overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling work, wedding preparations, and other responsibilities. Let someone else take the reins, handling all the research, booking, and coordination, freeing up your time to focus on enjoying the excitement of your upcoming nuptials.

Access to Exclusive Deals: The right travel agent will have access to exclusive deals, discounts, and perks that you won’t find online. They can help you stretch

Why not let Claire sprinkle some magic on your honeymoon planning? Her expertise, personalized service, and dedication to making your dream honeymoon a reality are sure to make your journey as newlyweds truly unforgettable. Contact at claire@palmtravelgroup.com to plan your dream honeymoon today!

your budget further, whether it’s through complimentary upgrades, special honeymoon packages, or insider tips on how to get the best value for your money.

Personalized Service: Unlike online booking platforms, the right travel agent offers personalized service and a human touch and will listen to your wishes and concerns, provide expert advice, and be there for you every step of the way, ensuring that your honeymoon exceeds your expectations.

Peace of Mind: Planning a honeymoon should be exciting, not stressful. With the right agent by your side, you can relax knowing that every detail is being taken care of by a professional. If any issues arise during your trip, the agent should be able to handle them swiftly, allowing you to focus on creating cherished memories with your partner. •VM

EDDINGS

WHITNEY WIGGINS & GARRETT LOVELL

The Perfect Catch

Story by MEGAN PIPER WHITE

Photography by GANDY PHOTOGRAPHERS

BOTH BORN AND RAISED IN VALDOSTA, GARRETT AND WHITNEY LOVELL HAVE ROOTS THAT RUN DEEP IN THE AREA. Whitney’s mother, Katie Watson, owns Chez What, and her father, Charles Wiggins, owns The Bistro. Garrett’s family owns Lovell Engineering and Associates. However, the couple didn’t meet until 2020. While they would usually have been in Jacksonville at separate tailgates for the game, they were both at a Georgia/ Florida Watch Party with mutual friends. They just happened to be at the right place at the right time to meet!

They realized their many connections, including Garrett’s mother having been Whitney’s 9th grade English teacher. Whitney describes that first meeting: “We were captivated by each other for the entire evening until the end of the party and most people had left. I told him that it was great to meet him, but it was unfortunate timing because I was moving to Savannah for an internship. I left a few weeks later, and Garrett continued to pursue me. He came to visit me in Savannah a few times, and when my internship was

Wover, I returned to Valdosta.” They dated for a year and a half before getting engaged, knowing from the start that it was meant to be.

Garrett’s marriage proposal was the perfect way for him to share his love of sports with Whitney, and he coordinated it all with the Atlanta Braves organization. He proposed at a Braves game by having the staff bring Whitney a prize bag of Braves items as though she had won a raffle or contest. Garrett played along, asking what was inside the bag. She pulled out a baseball with the big question written across it: “Will you marry me?”

Whitney was so surprised that she put the ring on her right hand instead of the left! After the game, they were able to go onto the field to take a picture to remember the special occasion.

They were married at Hallabrook Hill in Valdosta, and the wedding was catered by Covington’s with the cake provided by Molly Mizell. The flowers were designed by Southern Occasions. Gandy Photographers captured the memories, and they both wore jewelry by Steel’s in Valdosta. Whitney and Garrett describe the day overall as amazing! Hallabrook is a beautiful venue, and working with the team there (Beverly and Marie) couldn’t have been better. “It was a day that Garrett and I will forever cherish as one of the best and most special days of our lives.”

“Enjoy not only the day itself, but also all the days of planning that lead up to your wedding. It all happens so fast, so don’t get caught up in stressing over every little thing because it all comes together perfectly in the end.”

When asked their favorite part of the wedding, Whitney said it had to be the ceremony. “We kept our ceremony small, with just family and close friends, held in the chapel at Hallabrook Hill. Mr. Tom Thomas, a close family friend of Garrett’s, was our officiant, and he gave a beautiful and touching service that felt personal to us because he has known Garrett for most of his life. My grandmother read from Scripture, and it will forever be memorable to me.” The reception was a wonderful bonus for both Whitney and Garrett. The band, The Tams, was energetic and fun, and Garrett’s favorite part was dancing the night away with their family and friends.

The happy couple’s advice would be to enjoy the wedding and all the days of planning that lead up to it. “It all happens so fast, so don’t get caught up in stressing over every little thing because it all comes together perfectly in the end.” •VM

OUR WEDDING

Married May 27, 2023

Wedding & Reception at Hallabrook Hill

Groomsmen Attire from White Weddings Valdosta

Catered by Covington’s Jewelry from Steel’s Jewelry

Photography by Gandy Photographers

PROPOSAL

At a Braves game with “Will You Marry Me?” written on a baseball in a “swag bag” of Braves items

Whether you're dreaming of an intimate ceremony or a big production, your wedding should be as unforgettable as you are. Planning and hosting a wedding can be overwhelming to even the most seasoned planner. We can assist you every step of the wayfrom finding the perfect location to booking the rooms. Bridal Showers, Engagement - Rehearsal dinners, and Wedding Receptions, our staff will work tirelessly to make it a Lifetime Memory. Events up to 200 people.

weddings@williamshotelgroup.com

www.williamshotelgroup.com

Full Service Lounge and Restaurant and Room Service.

THE BENEFIT OF WORKING WITH A

REAL ESTATE AGENT

HOME ADVICE

Article by TOM CALL

In a competitive real estate market, you need more than just luck on your side. Whether you’re looking to sell your property or finally get your hands on your dream home, one thing’s for sure – you need the expertise of a seasoned real estate agent who has neighborhood knowledge, market insights, negotiation finesse and experience with contracts and closing details. Working with a real estate agent is your go-to resource when it’s time to buy or sell.

SHARING LOCAL EXPERTISE

When it comes to exploring community lifestyles or marketing a property to the most likely buyer at the right time, real estate agents are the ultimate insiders. They know the market and the area, and also have a network of connections and trusted professionals they can call on to ensure all your real estate goals are met. They’re well-connected in the real estate world, which means they’ve got the scoop on off-market listings and soon-to-be-available properties.

DATA-DRIVEN DECISION MAKING

Who doesn’t love a good data-driven strategy? Real estate agents have a treasure trove of tools and technology. Using market data analytics, insights into trends impacting buyers and sellers and a comprehensive Competitive Market Analysis, they can accurately tell you where the opportunities lie and what to expect for pricing, days on the market and more.

DETAILED COORDINATION

Ever felt overwhelmed by the intricacies of buying or selling a property? Working with a real estate agent gives you a personalized approach every step of the way. They will handle placing an offer, coordinating inspections, getting a home ready to list and developing a custom marketing plan. They’ll also connect you with any necessary vendors, including repair specialists or mortgage, title and insurance professionals. With an agent at your side, the intricate processes and complexities become a breeze.

EXPERT NEGOTIATIONS

When you’re in the final stages of the game, your real estate agent turns into your personal advocate. They’re armed with data analytics and negotiation strategies that can lead to winning deals and peaceful resolutions. They’ll make sure it’s a smooth process.

With a real estate agent as your trusty guide, you can navigate the market with confidence and secure the best possible outcome.

For full-service tailored assistance, reach out to one of our experienced and professional agents today or visit our website at www.valdostarealtors.com today!

Tom Call, Broker Premier Real Estate VALDOSTA, GA

When planning a wedding, there seems to be a lot to decide on all at once! A stress-free bride is always the prettiest -- here is my advice!

Set your budget first! Next, nail down your date -checking with important vendors for availability beforehand! Prioritize your wedding vendors according to importance to you and make sure they’re the perfect fit for the vision of your day! Choose the best quality for your budget where you can and always work with respected professionals!

Then sit back and let your wedding team take care of you, your family and your wedding day!

Lindsay Colson is a wedding photographer with over 15 years of experience. Authentically photographing your wedding beautifully is always the priority! Serving my couples and their families throughout their wedding day is an honor and a joy.

Inquire for date availability and collection options Seniors

“I N N APOLI , WHERE LOVE IS KING , WHEN BOY MEETS GIRL , HERE ’ S WHAT THEY SAY …”

75 Years

W That’ s Amoré

12 Years

30 Years

WITH A COMBINED 117 YEARS OF MARRIAGE BETWEEN THEM, these three couples have sound advice about making a marriage thrive. They attribute the success of their relationships to prayer, patience, and small acts of kindness.

Whether you’ve been in love for years or just now falling in love, you’ll be inspired by these couples' love stories and how they strike just the right balance in life.

Dexter & Jeanie Wilson

Jason & Jodi Myddelton

Chad & Val Gallahan

Stories by MATTIA GODDARD / Photography by WES SEWELL PHOTOGRAPHY

That’ s Amoré

75 YEARS TOGETHER: EACH ONE A BLESSING

AND J EANIE W ILSON – E VERY D AY F OLLOWING G OD

Story by MATTIA GODDARD / Photography by WES SEWELL PHOTOGRAPHY

Dexter and Jeanie Wilson, as they are known to their friends, will celebrate 75 years of marriage this December. The story of their meeting takes them back to Jeanie’s hometown of Ashburn, Georgia in the year 1946.

Dexter, being from Mobile, Alabama, came to Georgia for college and attended first Norman College, then Mercer University. While in school, he volunteered to spend the summer teaching Bible School to various Baptist

Churches in the area. One such church was Harmony Baptist outside of Ashburn, where Jeanie and her family attended.

Dexter says, “I went there not knowing I’d meet my future wife. I have prayed since I was a kid for God to lead me to the right person.” Because Dexter was the teacher, he had no intention of dating anyone in his classes.

It would be three years later, and many chaperoned rides to and from the

Ashburn bus station in Jeanie’s father’s car before they would finally become a couple. Jeanie is clear to point out that her father had one of the only cars in that part of town and driving the young preacher was a family affair.

“My father died when I was 10 years old, so we were never able to have a car. I didn’t buy my first car until I graduated from college.”

Dexter graduated from Mercer in the spring of 1949, and they were married

that December. They remember the day as not unusually cold. Jeanie’s Uncle Tip helped cut down the pines that they used to decorate for their wedding. He called it a “pine tree wedding.”

By the time they married, Dexter was the pastor of Harmony Baptist. The couple got married there, and Dexter asked the pastor, who had originally sent him to Ashburn, to officiate. The whole church came to their wedding, and as a honeymoon send-off prank, several church members rigged his 1942 Oldsmobile with firecrackers under the hood and jacked up his wheels. Not knowing anything about cars, he was scared when smoke billowed out from the engine, but the pranksters quickly put the car back to rights and sent them on their way.

Dexter says, “The Southern Baptists had a motto: A Million More in ’54. Our church put on a program to start a new church. We did a survey and found that Ashburn, not five miles away, had many citizens who didn’t go to church, and lots of them were Baptists. So, we set up a tent and held a revival. That revival went on for a couple of weeks. At the end of that, my plans to go to seminary school in Louisville were set aside. By the end of summer, we had over a hundred people committed to the new church. Because I had spent the summer visiting and growing the community, I was asked to lead Westside Baptist in Ashburn.” Dexter recalls that the relationship between the two churches was good. Harmony helped Westside grow. He understood that he was needed there. “That was the only time in my ministry that I had the privilege of starting a new church.”

Dexter explained that he was what is called a bi-vocational pastor. He taught school during the week and preached on the weekends. He taught math and science at the junior high in Poulan and was also named the principal. “Poulan was a suburb of Sylvester, an old mill village, but the cotton mill had long since

closed. It was a rough area, and those kids told me they ran principals off after a year. I was proud to make it two years.”

After the new church was built in 1957, Dexter was called to go to a church near Augusta in an outlying area called Blythe. “You never know. The Lord has plans we don’t know about. We were blessed to be in Augusta. Our youngest son was born there. He was what they called a blue baby.”

Jeanie added, “He had the wrong blood Rh status. They whisked him away so quickly and immediately set to changing his blood. If we had not been in Augusta at that teaching hospital, our son would’ve been in trouble.”

“We were only there that one year. Then we were moved to Sylvester.” Dexter continued to teach and preach, culminating in a 31-year career in education. He retired as superintendent of the Worth County School District. His wife Jeanie, after having the couple’s three children, was surprised with a fourth child, a daughter, 17 years after their first was born. Amid the raising of their four children, Jeanie was also employed as the bookkeeper for the Sylvester School system’s lunch program. She was proud to work to save for their four children’s college dreams, allowing each of them to graduate debtfree. Jeanie adds, “I was glad to do it.” They thoroughly enjoyed their time

in Sylvester, but in 2000, they decided it was time to move closer to their grandchildren.

Dexter and Jeanie have been blessed with seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. They have a son in Plant City, Florida; a daughter in Athens; another in Valdosta; and a son in Knoxville, Tennessee. They chose Valdosta largely because it was the most centrally located. While it was hard to leave their life in Sylvester, they have loved their time in Valdosta. They are members of Crossroads Baptist Church, and over the years they’ve made many dear friends. They lament that one of the curses of a long life is outliving your friends.

Dexter says, “We know more people in heaven. Of the 30 men in my Bible study, only myself and one other remain. I miss all of them. I know where they are, and I plan to meet ’em.” When it comes to advice for those beginning their marriage journey, Dexter says, “Your marriage will work much better if you talk to each other. Each spouse needs to know what’s going on.” They also stress the importance of being in charge together. “When I’d come in from teaching school, the kids would ask me for this or that, my response always was, ‘What did your mother say?’ We didn’t allow them to pit us against each other.” This united approach to parenting has paid off. “My wife was sturdy. If she told them to do something, she expected it to be done. She never said, ‘Just wait until your dad gets home.’ She handled it.”

Dexter is quick to point out that their kids never gave them any serious trouble. “Their biggest problem is they were drug…drug to church!”

The Wilsons stressed that their marriage has been long-lasting because Jesus Christ has been central in their lives, and that they have passed along the lessons of their relationship, filled with love, to their children and grandchildren. •VM

That’ s Amoré

JASON & JODI:

30 YEARS OF PATIENCE AND KINDNESS

STARTED DATING ON A DARE AND , BOY , THEY ’ RE GLAD THEY DID

Story by MATTIA GODDARD /

Photography

by WES SEWELL PHOTOGRAPHY

This May, Jason and Jodi will celebrate 30 years together

From their early days in 5th grade at West Gordon School, these Valdosta natives have known each other nearly all of their lives. This year, they are celebrating three decades of love, marriage, and family.

Jason and Jodi Myddelton, whose families have been in Lowndes County since the 1960s on his side and as far back as the 1880s on her side, left the area when they first married for Orange Park, Florida. After six years away and wanting to be closer to family, Valdosta lured them back.

Even though they had known each other from a young age, it wasn’t until late in their college years, while working together, that they became romantically involved.

Jodi remembers, “We were both working at South Georgia Pecan and Jim Worn, the owner at that time, dared us to go on a date.  We went on our first date to a cookout at Jason’s hunting camp and have been together ever since.”

Jason and Jodi were engaged in 1993 and married in 1994. “We married in May of 1994 in Key West, Florida at the Audubon House. Our ceremony was at 10:00 on a Tuesday morning, and we were snorkeling on a reef offshore by noon! We both love Key West, had both spent time vacationing there during our youth and decided it would be a great place to get married and spend a week vacationing. Neither of us wanted a large wedding.”

Everyone knows Jason as the donut man, the owner of Dixie Cream Donuts since 2004. Because of this, he has a different schedule than most people, getting up to start cooking donuts before 4 a.m. Jodi says, “We used this to our advantage when our children were growing up because I did the morning shift, breakfast, and getting the kids to school, and he was home to get them off the bus in the afternoons.”

Jodi has been with Southeast Capital Investment Group since 2000 as their vice president of Branch Operations.

Today, they are empty nesters; their twins, Alden and Thomas, both proud graduates of the Valdosta High School IB Program, are freshmen at Ole Miss.

“Family life has always been our number one priority.  Even before our children were born, we spent a great amount of time with our parents and siblings, traveling and being together. When our children were young, we put a lot of social engagements on the back burner so that we could be home to do all the things…tote kids to birthday parties, attend sports practices, go to their school events.  We wanted to be involved in every aspect of their lives.  Even the small things like taking and picking them up from school was a joy for us.”

In their spare time, Jason and Jodi travel to see their children in Oxford, Mississippi. They love attending Ole Miss sporting events and tailgates. They also love traveling to the coast any chance they get.

They each have their individual hobbies that they enjoy. Jason’s hobbies include fishing and hunting, any and all types of wild game. Jodi’s hobby is needlepoint.

When it comes to marriage and relationship advice, Jodi turns to Scripture, in particular,

1 Corinthians 13:4. Their best piece of advice is patience and kindness. “We take time to sit and talk about big things and small things, sometimes just to get caught up on day-to-day life. We are empty-nesters now and have more oneon-one time.”

Jodi describes Jason’s personality as even-keeled, rarely getting overly excited or overly down.  Jodi, on the other hand, describes herself as overly exaggerated with highs and lows.  “That balance works for us. Sometimes he reminds me to calm down, and sometimes I remind him to get pumped up…which is how we complement each other.”

“Our home was destroyed by Hurricane Idalia. We spend a lot of our time together now meeting with contractors and pouring over every little detail of reconstruction. It’s not an ideal way to spend quality time together, but we’ve learned the art of compromise, communication, and patience is just as important today as it was back in 1994!” •VM

That’ s Amoré

12 YEARS OF TEAMWORK A MUTUAL LOVE OF SPORTS BROUGHT VAL & CHAD TOGETHER AT VSU

Story by MATTIA GODDARD / Photography by WES SEWELL PHOTOGRAPHY

Chad and Val Gallahan, with their natural athleticism and mutual love of sports, are celebrating a dozen years together. Their story begins in college at Valdosta State University. While Chad is originally from Valdosta, having gone to Valwood School and played football for VSU, Val is a transplant to Lowndes County. She found her way to Valdosta via a volleyball scholarship. Originally from Corpus Christi, Texas, she played volleyball for a junior college, Panola College in Carthage, Texas, and then came to Georgia to play volleyball for the Blazers. She recalls having other options in Texas and Arkansas, but after

seeing the palm trees on VSU’s front lawn, she knew she had found her spot.

The couple knew of each other through VSU athletics, but they didn’t actually meet until 2007, on a spring break trip in Panama City. Sparks flew immediately, and they started dating shortly thereafter.

When asked how their relationship began, Val says, “I had seen Chad in the weight room at VSU and thought he was cute. A week before Spring Break, I was driving through Valdosta and talking with my friend in the passenger seat. It was possible that I wasn’t being the most attentive driver and when the vehicle

in front of me stopped, I had to pull into the grass to keep from hitting it. I was mortified when I realized I had almost rear-ended Chad, the cute football player! In later years, I learned that Chad was looking at me in his rearview mirror and had to slam on his brakes to keep from hitting the car in front of him.” Chad adds, “This is true; I was not paying attention to the road but to the good-lookin’ volleyball player behind me.”

The young couple graduated from VSU in 2008 with their undergraduate degrees: Val, with her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology, and Chad, with his in Education. Continuing on to graduate

school, Val earned her Master of Public Administration degree in December of 2009. Chad completed graduate school later with a Master of Education in Educational Leadership.

It wasn’t until after they finished college that Chad proposed. In April of 2010, on Easter Sunday, Chad hid the ring in an Easter egg and led Val on a scavenger hunt that ended at a dock on Isle of Hope in Savannah.

Their engagement lasted a little over a year, and the couple married in St. Augustine on July 15, 2011. The idea of a summer wedding was especially important to Chad in order to avoid conflicts with coaching and sports seasons. They specifically chose to be married near the ocean as they both love it, and they were pleased that their wedding provided a fun destination for their guests traveling from out of town. Val remembers that during the reception, Chad, with a show of athleticism, shot the garter way up into the rafters of the building.

When thinking back over their courtship, Val says that Chad’s love language is acts of service. “When I was a graduate assistant in the Athletic Department at VSU, Chad would be by my side at every event—helping me set up for events, carrying tables and chairs. In the Valdosta Junior Service League, Chad helped me prepare the CDF House for renovation and move Merry Marketplace props and supplies to and from the CDF House & Conference Center. He even delivers food to board meetings.”

“Val attended all of my VSU football games during the 2007 season, both home and away.  She collected photos and made a scrapbook of the National Championship season and our time together, and surprised me with it.”

She also adds, “It was apparent early in our relationship that Chad wanted to spend time with me. When I worked at PetSmart, he would gather the shopping carts from the parking lot in the cold and rain so I didn’t have to, and so I would get off work faster.”

Chad says, “When we were first

dating, we spent most of our time together playing grass and beach volleyball with friends.  We especially enjoyed traveling to Jacksonville Beach and playing in tournaments.”

Currently the Upper School Dean at Valwood, Chad is happy to be back at his old stomping grounds. Prior to that, he spent 10 years as the Middle School Dean, and naturally, he has enjoyed coaching various sports. He is currently Val’s Assistant Volleyball Coach.

Val also works at Valwood as the Registrar and the Head Volleyball Coach. The couple has found a happy balance between their lifelong love of sports and being together in their work life.

Their days of enjoying beach volleyball are increasingly rare as they share parenting duties in the raising of their three daughters, Beckham, 9, Bodhi, 7, and Kibbee, 3. Watching their daughters play sports and begin to get involved in their community is a highlight for them. Their oldest plays soccer for UFA and basketball for VLPRA, while their middle child dances at Winnersville Elite.

Val credits the close-knit community at Valwood with making her work as Head Coach possible. They are able to travel to away games and know their girls are safe at home. Without Val’s friends, Stacy and Kate Evans, who keep their girls when

they coach out of town, they wouldn’t be able to continue to coach.

Chad says, “During our 17 years as a couple, we've chosen to spend as much time together as possible. Only until recently, with our children participating in several activities, have we split duties to make sure we get where we need to be, but if it is an opportunity to go to a place together as a family, we choose to. I truly enjoy the rides with Val and the kids. She listens to music I enjoy, and we all like to be the DJ who plays the next song. She will sing every word in the song, and I do not mind it at all.”

When asked what advice they have for young couples, Val says, “I learned early on in our relationship not to look for reasons to have my feelings hurt. If Chad said or did something to upset me, it wasn’t his intention. Talking it through was way better than spending the evening upset.”

Val goes on to say, “I once read that parents are going to exemplify to their children either the type of marriage the children will want or the type they will not. My parents have a model marriage. With three daughters and coaching female athletes for the past 10+ years, I think it is awesome that our children see a husband take on responsibilities, raising girls, sharing domestic household tasks, and treating his wife…quite honestly better than I deserve.”

“Lastly,” Val says, “Pray! I pray for Chad daily. Acknowledging in my prayers how much I’m blessed to have a husband like Chad and our girls.”  Chad says, “Marriage is a team. Success in marriage is based on a holy union with respect to beliefs, values, understanding, patience, communication, enthusiasm, and hard work. Similar to a successful sports team, all the aspects need to be practiced daily with the intention of making our daily lives better for each other.  There will be miscommunication, bad days, lack of patience, and unforeseen conflicts to cause friction, but if our values and goals are aligned, we know we can overcome any obstacle and do the right thing for one another.” •VM

Health

5 Heart Health Tips from our Expert Cardiologist

By Edward Distler, DO, Interventional Cardiologist, SGMC Health

Maintaining a healthy heart is vital for overall well-being, and as physicians, we are committed to helping you achieve optimal cardiovascular health. Here are five expert tips to keep your heart in top shape.

1. Nourish Your Heart with a Balanced Diet:

A heart-healthy diet is the cornerstone of cardiovascular well-being. Focus on consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Minimize intake of processed foods, saturated fats, and excessive salt, as they can contribute to heart disease.

2. Stay Physically Active:

Regular exercise is key to a healthy heart. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Activities like brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming can improve cardiovascular fitness, lower blood pressure, and maintain a healthy weight.

3. Know Your Numbers:

Monitoring key health indicators is crucial for heart health. Schedule regular check-ups to keep tabs on blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar. Maintaining optimal levels reduces the risk of heart disease and allows for early intervention if any abnormalities arise.

4. Prioritize Quality Sleep:

Adequate, quality sleep is essential for heart health. Lack of sleep can contribute to conditions like obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes, all of which are risk factors for heart disease. Strive for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support overall well-being.

5. Manage Stress Effectively:

Chronic stress can negatively impact heart health. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or engaging in hobbies. Taking time for yourself and maintaining a healthy work-life balance contributes to better overall mental and cardiovascular health.

Remember, these tips are general guidelines, and individualized advice from your healthcare provider is crucial for personalized heart care. By incorporating these practices into your lifestyle, you are taking proactive steps toward a hearthealthy future.

SGMC Health has the region’s only open-heart program, structural heart clinic, and electrophysiology program. To learn more about SGMC’s heart and vascular programs visit sgmc.org.

For more insight on heart health from Dr. Distler listen to Episode 2 of “What Brings You in Today?,” the new podcast from SGMC Health available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

Dr. Distler gives his take on sleep, stress, and the importance of advocating for your health. Learn about risk factors and gain valuable tips for a hearthealthy life.

Profiles

YOUR GUIDE TO VALDOSTA’S PEOPLE, PLACES AND BUSINESSES

FBeautiful Not Broken

Story by AMY FAESKORN | Photos by REBEKAH DAVIS

NICOLE STEEL AND LAURA MATHIS BRING NEW LIFE TO OLD GEMSTONES TO BENEFIT THE CHILDREN OF CAMP ROCK OF GEORGIA, INC.

or years, Nicole Steel noticed the ever-growing pile of damaged garnets, sapphires, and other gemstones pulled from the gold jewelry sold to Steel's for melt value and thought there must be a way to put them to better use.

“Even if these gems are precious or semiprecious, they're not usable, and the cost of mailing them to a lapidary to be recut and repolished is prohibitive,” she explains. “My husband Adam and I occasionally used them to teach elementary school children about the chemistry behind how stones form, but I wanted to do something different,” she says. “Something with a higher

purpose.”

Steel has a passion for children's advocacy and adoption which began with a post-college internship at a boy's ranch and has continued with her involvement in non-profits such as Leadership Lowndes, and, more recently, Camp Rock. A woman of faith, she felt divinely inspired to put together the project now known as Beautiful Not Broken for a long time before envisioning how it would actually come together; this fall, it did.

“It was all in God's timing,” she recalls. “I had this idea stirring in my heart for years before I finally took action.”

Aprile Steel, Nicole Steel, Elizabeth Steel Milstead of Steel's Jewelry

"Thanks to Nicole, we're increasing visibility in the community, which will only help us expand our reach that much more."

— Patti Karras

"I wanted to craft a candle line that captures the essence of beauty and giving back, and I think we've done that."

— Laura Mathis

Steel shared her concept of sprinkling the cast-off gems into custom made scented candles with friend Laura Mathis, founder and owner of Melton Candle Company. The duo quickly sketched out a plan to pour an initial batch of 250 candles to be sold during this past holiday season, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting Camp Rock. With the blessing of Camp Rock's co-founder and board member, Patti Karras—also a longtime friend of Steel's—they quickly set to work. Steel's sister, Rebekah Davis, designed the logo, and with no more than a print ad placed in the holiday issue of Steel's in-house magazine and a few social media posts, word spread quickly enough to sell out by Christmas. Steel was thrilled to present the charity's first donation to Karras at the end of December.

The collaboration has been meaningful for all involved. “Finding inspiration in the extraordinary, I was so blessed to embark on this creative journey with Nicole,” says Mathis. “I wanted to craft a candle line that captures the essence of beauty and giving back, and I think we've done that.” Karras is also grateful for the awareness of Camp Rock generated by the campaign. “Our ministry is to make a direct impact on children in need right here in Lowndes County and the surrounding area,” she says. “Thanks to Nicole, we're increasing visibility in the community, which will only help us expand our reach that much more.” Steel also realized after the fact the overlapping meaning of “rock” and “gem” and felt it had to be another sign she was on the right path. “God definitely has a sense of humor!”

Initial production came with a few challenges. To fulfill the first order, Steel went from a surplus of gems to having friends in the industry in other parts of the country ship her additional ones. Steel's 14-year-old son, Bennett, got in on the act, helping extract and sort stones from the donated jewelry.

Elizabeth Milstead, Aprile Steel and Rebekah Davis were instrumental in keeping the tight timeline of manufacture and distribution on track.

The goal of Beautiful Not Broken is to raise as much money as possible for Camp Rock, so Steel worked with Mathis to ensure low costs with high quality. “Getting this off the ground was a team effort, and I could not have done it without the amazing help of so many people,” Nicole says.

All of the stones—which contain flaws such as cracks, chips, and scuffs, rendering them unworkable in pieces of jewelry — sparkle in their new “settings.” “Natural, lab grown, synthetic, grandma's costume pieces—you name it, we've used it,” Steel explains. “That's what makes each candle so unique.” Some have bigger jewels placed in a pattern; others feature smaller gems spread like confetti. “A lot of people haven't even melted them because they think they're too pretty!” she notes. Customers who can bear to finish burning their candles are able to return the stones to the store for a 15% discount off a future purchase.

With the reception being so positive, Steel has no plans to slow down her efforts. Mathis is refining the candle's design and will be pouring a second batch in the spring; meanwhile Steel is hard at work on phase two of the undertaking, to be revealed later this year. “I don't know what the future holds, but I continue to be guided by my service to God and my love of children,” she says. “And I never could have imagined the level of success we'd be blessed with in such a short time.” •VM

Far Left: Nicole Steel and Patti Karras.

Photo by Rebekah Davis

Left: Laura Mathis and Nicole Steel

Below: Nicole’s children help with making the candles

A SolidFoundation

CAMP ROCK OF GEORGIA HELPS AT-RISK CHILDREN FIND THEIR WAY IN LIFE.

Over the past 38 years of practicing family law in Lowndes County, attorney Patti Karras has helped hundreds of children find their forever homes through adoption. In 2010, along with pastor Jay Watkins of Redland Baptist Church—himself the proud father of four adopted children—she began to realize the growing need for children in foster care to be provided with the most basic of necessities when transitioning to a new placement.

“When we reached out to the local Department of Family and Children Services to see how we could help, we learned that they were experiencing a slowdown in Christmas donations for the children,” Karras recalls. Together with Watkins and many volunteers from his church, she helped organize a campaign to make up the difference, which resulted in a day-long Christmas event for foster families and their caseworkers, complete with free food, Disney characters and fun activities for the kids, each of whom went home with at least one toy and other items such

as blankets, duffel bags, clothing and toiletries. The day was a resounding success, and Camp Rock of Georgia was born.

Now a fully-fledged nonprofit organization, Camp Rock’s Christmas events reach foster children as far away as Savannah and Atlanta. Over the years, Camp Rock has expanded its services to include a private foster care agency which recently relocated from its original address on Rocky Ford Road to a new office space in Remerton, a wilderness camp facility located off Rocky Ford Road, and other ministries. Camp Rock offers children in foster care and other at-risk children the unique opportunity to attend faithbased sleepaway summer camps, where they do arts and crafts, take part in wilderness activities, experience equine therapy, and acquire life skills, all with the goal of helping them find their joy and reach their full potential. “Even learning something as basic as proper table manners can be so valuable for them when they age out,” Karras

observes. “Our hope is that they can learn to break the cycle of foster care and begin to see a brighter future for themselves.”

Through its private foster care agency, Camp Rock also offers training and support for foster parents, ESL classes for migrant families, and casework management for foster parents who are fostering children who are in the custody of the state. Camp Rock holds regular information sessions at churches in the area and is grateful for anyone who'd like to join their ever-expanding cadre of foster families. “Our intent was to widen the community of fostering through a private Christian agency,” says Karras. “Creating that network of like-minded people has been a key part of what we do.” •VM

For more information on how to donate or get involved, visit www.camprockga.com.

“To know that someone from a rural town like Nashville CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE not only in the Hispanic community but the local, geographic one as well—that means the world to me.”

INVESTING IN THE

The Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce spotlights the many contributions of

Al Mart ez

Story by AMY FAESKORN Photos by WES SEWELL PHOTOGRAPHY

“It's amazing what you can accomplish when you're determined to do something," says Alonso Martinez, reflecting on his recognition this past September by the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce as one of the 50 Most Influential Latinos in Georgia. The award, presented at a ceremony held at TRUIST Park in Atlanta and hosted by the Atlanta Braves with dignitaries such as Atlanta mayor Andre Dickens, Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives Jon Burns, Senator Jon Ossoff, and Insurance and Fire Safety Commissioner John F. King in attendance, honors individuals for their impact on the state's economic growth and community development. Martinez was nominated by a colleague at Wells Fargo Advisors in Valdosta, where he has worked as a financial advisor since 2019.

Born in Mexico City, Martinez immigrated to the United States with his family in 1994. They went on to establish a string of successful restaurants throughout the state. He has lived in Berrien County for the past 22 years and has owned and operated his own restaurant, Puerta del Sol, since 2002.

"Being a small business owner is really challenging, and though I've always enjoyed it, I knew I wanted to make a shift in my career at some point," he recalls. Leveraging his background as an entrepreneur, he worked toward a bachelor's degree in business management with a concentration in marketing and management, all while staying engaged full-time at his restaurant.

"As a non-traditional student, the work ethic I had learned from my parents really helped me succeed," he says. He became involved in VSU's Investment Club as an undergraduate; this is where his passion for finance started. Alonso is now a member of their board and serves as a mentor to current students who aspire to have careers in finance. The board recently led a trip to New York to give them experience and allow them to see the buzz of activity on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange.

His work in wealth management also touches many people in the region, as he collaborates with individuals and business owners as well as large companies to work both sides of the balance sheet. "I help my clients build, manage, protect, and transfer their assets in the most tax-efficient manner possible," he notes. Having begun at Wells Fargo Advisors shortly before the COVID pandemic, he found himself counseling his client base during that time to weather market fluctuations with the calm required for successful long-term returns.

Martinez also serves on the SGMC Health Berrien Campus Advisory Committee, is the current President of the Nashville-Berrien Rotary Club, and is a board member of the Berrien County Chamber of Commerce, finishing a rotation as chairman in 2021. "One of the things I'm most proud of in my work at the Chamber is awarding our Business Improvement Grant," he notes. "Bringing that value to small businesses and helping them get their product out in front of their potential customers is so important."

Martinez and his wife of twelve years, Jessica, are proud parents to nineyear-old son, Jensen, and 19-year-old stepdaughter Kadiences Harris. They love to travel and have been to Hong Kong, Japan, and several countries in Europe; they're also raising Jensen bilingually and took him to see Mexico City not long ago. A newly minted quail hunter, he enjoys spending time with his rescue dog, Cooper, and coaching Jensen's basketball team.

Martinez remains humbled by his inclusion in such a prestigious group of business leaders and his position as a role model for fellow Latinos in South Georgia. "For me to have been highlighted as one of the few honorees outside metro Atlanta is so gratifying," he says. "To know that someone from a rural town like Nashville can make a difference not only in the Hispanic community but the local, geographic one as well—that means the world to me." •VM

UNLEASHES THE POWER OF COMMUNITY A Storm

Though devastating, Hurricane Idalia brought bravery and unity to Lowndes County

Story by MATTIA GODDARD

Photos by ERICA THRIFT AND JOE BROWNLEE Hurricane Intro Shot courtesy of 123RF.com

WHEN IDALIA ARRIVED IN LOWNDES COUNTY ON AUGUST 30TH OF LAST YEAR, she was a Category 2 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of over 100 miles per hour. The storm, whose name comes from the Greek meaning "behold the sun," brought with her high winds, torrential rainfall, and storm surge that caused widespread flooding. It was reported as the wettest day in Valdosta in over 20 years. More than five inches of rain had fallen in Valdosta by 10:30 that morning.

In preparation for what looked like would be a direct hit, Governor Kemp declared a state of emergency on August 29th, ahead of the storm. “We have a local operations plan that takes an all hazards approach to any man-made or natural disaster," explained Lowndes County Manager Paige Dukes. "My experience with Idalia was that because our local government and supporting agencies stay ready, we are never in the position to have to get ready. That was very evident in how quickly our first responders were able to go from response to recovery.”

Paige said the transition was indeed immediate and smooth. “We were supported by conversations we had with our state level partners. The Insurance Commission came to Valdosta in the afternoon of the storm and told us how impressed they were with our plan and how we implemented it.” According to Joe Brownlee, the Georgia Power Region Executive for the Southwest Region, 100% of GPC customers in Lowndes County were initially without power. “Idalia took out all of our transmission lines feeding the substations in the county. There are approximately 39,000 GPC customers in Lowndes.”

When Georgia Power linemen got to work, they faced 505 broken poles in Lowndes County and 1000+ spans of wire down. These numbers didn’t even include Colquitt EMC’s reported damage. Altogether, there were more than a thousand lost power poles in Lowndes County and thousands more trees felled. Joe explained that within 24 hours they had 1300 forestry personnel working. “We had dozens of Alabama and Mississippi Power crews from our sister companies and 1500 Line personnel were working within 24 hours. Contractors from all over the Southeastern United States came to Lowndes County. 100% of customers that could take service were restored in 96 hours.”

Paige expressed tremendous gratitude to both utility providers for their unprecedented efforts. “Once the storm had moved through, over 95% of our county had outages. The majority of power was restored in less than a week, except for pocket areas awaiting tree removal or parts and equipment.”

The storm also required assistance from other experts. The old Valdosta High School building was used as a staging area where 1100 linemen, foresters, damage evaluators, engineers and supply chain personnel were housed and fed. North Lowndes Park in Hahira was also a staging area for workers who came to Lowndes County to restore roadways and powerlines.

Homeowner Cassie Worn recalled her family’s harrowing experience. “At 12:30 on the day before the storm, school was canceled for the rest of the week due to a storm that nobody was really talking about. I don’t know if it was just my 'mother’s intuition' but I packed some bags and headed straight to our family in Atlanta with our boys. Looking back, I’m so glad that I did! At first, I was afraid that I might have overreacted. Then around noon my husband and neighbors started calling because some of the trees in our yard had started to fall. Then, silence! We couldn’t get in touch with anybody! Last we heard, my husband was trying to leave the house to go check on his office but a tree had fallen on the garage and another was blocking the garage door. Over the next couple of days, people sent me pictures and videos, service permitting. When the boys and I arrived back home a week later, I couldn’t believe my eyes. We lost 25 trees, but none landed directly on our house. I know not everyone was so lucky, so I’m very grateful."

Paige was impressed by how many people pitched in to help one another at such a chaotic time. “The heart of our community is service. There were so many examples of citizens helping citizens. First responders can’t be everywhere all at once. We're grateful for the mutual aid response from surrounding counties. If we can ever reciprocate, we'll be ready to support them.”

“There were so many examples of citizens helping citizens.”

The most gut-wrenching part of the storm for Paige was the scene of Lowndes' sole fatality. “When you're married to the Lowndes County Sheriff ’s Office like I am, the department is your family, both personally and professionally. To see blue lights underwater was horrific,” she remembered, referring to Road Captain Eric Robinson who, while heading to the call where the citizen lost his life, got caught in a wind gust that caused his patrol vehicle to hydroplane. It careened into a flooded ditch off Inner Perimeter, where it landed upside down in more than six feet of water.

Sheriff Paulk said the vehicle was filling up with water and the captain couldn’t get the glass to break so he shot out of his windshield. Because Paige was driving right behind Robinson, she saw the wreck happen and immediately pulled over and waded into the flooded culvert to help him.

While the Captain and Paige came away from the accident uninjured, the scene where a citizen lost his life was even more tragic. The Sheriff explained that his Captain, Bryce Whitener, and his Evidence Custodian, Tony Bennefield, were cutting down a tree on Nashville Highway above Moody when two citizens stopped to help them. While one of the individuals was cutting up a felled tree with a chainsaw, another tree fell and crushed the other. Tony Bennefield was injured and suffered a brain bleed but has made a full recovery. The other injured citizen had a neck and leg injury that was immediately treated with a tourniquet by

the deputies. Unfortunately, the citizen who took the brunt of impact was killed instantly.

Both the Sheriff and the Chief of Police confirmed that between the county and city there were more than 1,100 calls made to law enforcement that day. The Sheriff laughed and said that one woman called to ask if there would be trash pick up the next day, but other issues were more serious: people trapped in their vehicles, car wrecks, flooding, electricity questions.

“My son Buck lost 19 thousand trees and two million pounds of nuts at his Shiloh Pecan Farm," said Paulk. "But for all the damage our community sustained, it’s a miracle more people didn’t get hurt.”

Like the Sheriff ’s having more than 100 deputies out on the roads, Chief Leslie Manahan dispatched her entire force. “I had our sworn staff of 120 people on 24-hour recall. They worked 12–18hour shifts and knew they could be called back in at any time. We continued that schedule through Labor Day.”

There is a now widely shared photo on social media of the Chief herself directing traffic. “I think there were four traffic lights working, at the most, once the storm moved through. We had lots of manpower directing traffic at our busiest intersections as well as rerouting motorists away from downed power lines.”

The Chief is quick to point out the dedication of the officers and first responders. “We had staff coming in, leaving their homes and their families

with no power, not to mention damage to their own property that needed attention. But they put duty above themselves.”

Listening to the calls coming through on the radio from her patrolmen and women was particularly tough. “Paramedics, firefighters, patrol officers were climbing over trees, walking a mile or more just to get to people when the usual paths were blocked. I vividly remember officers saying on the radio that they were wading through water, and power lines were coming down around them.” She said it was a miracle more people weren’t seriously injured.

“We had one officer in his patrol car have a tree fall right in front of him. He slammed on brakes and another tree fell behind him, trapping his vehicle.” One of the Valdosta Police Department’s Crime Scene Personnel was at a house when trees started falling around her. Her fellow officers tried to reach her but couldn’t. “I’ll always remember the fear in their voices.”

When asked if her officers listened when she ordered them to stand down at

“In my almost 27 years of service, I’ve never seen such an outpouring from the community.”

the height of the storm, the Chief said, “I'm not sure they did. The radio still crackled with them answering calls, so I can’t say, but at that moment, the storm was at its most dangerous. That’s the type of people we have here.”

The parking lot at the Valdosta Police Department on Toombs Street completely flooded when the culvert nearby overflowed its banks. The Chief said that between their building and the Boys & Girls Club, all you could see was water, though the building sustained only minimal damage. The VPD had a total of only nine vehicles affected and all of them were quickly back up and running.

“It’s so amazing. You truly see the hearts of your first responders during these catastrophic situations," the Chief said. “In my almost 27 years of service, I’ve never seen such an outpouring from the community. Citizens didn’t panic or blow up the call center with low priority situations. There was no looting or increase in vandalism.”

Paige also praised the staff of the Public Works Department. “They are

the true front line of public safety. If our roads, streets and bridges aren’t safe and passable, first responders can’t get to where they need to go. By the end of the week, Public Works had every road in the unincorporated area cleared. Many of them slept in their trucks while their own homes stood damaged or destroyed. They didn’t go home for days.”

All of our emergency agency leaders had one thing in common throughout the storm and its aftermath: precious few waking hours. The Sheriff, the Chief, and Paige were all awake for 48 hours straight. Paige said, “We had a job to do. Even if you get a chance to sleep, you don’t rest when your people are in need.”

Chief Manahan also found a silver lining in the storm's aftermath, emphasizing that after the efforts of so many, Valdosta was truly blessed with the outcome. The sun did finally shine down again on the community, in more ways than one. “With COVID we got distant, staying away from each other for so long. Strangers are no longer strangers. Idalia brought us back together.” •VM

[STORY BY AMY FAESKORN / PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGHAN BARWICK]

FARMERS BIG AND SMALL

In different sizes and sectors, Mike Coggins and Jennifer Sumner keep regional agriculture a thriving industry.

SSouth Georgia is well-known for its production of food and fiber.

In Lowndes and Echols Counties alone, farms are responsible for almost $340 million in gate value each year. The Lowndes County Board of Commissioners and the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce held their annual Local Farmer Appreciation Breakfast this past December to recognize the outstanding contributions of two individual farmers to the vibrancy of the local agricultural economy, chosen from a field of over 30 nominees.

Mike Coggins of Blackwater Cattle Company in Lake Park was named Large Farmer of the Year. A lifelong resident of Valdosta and third generation farmer and rancher, he began raising cattle in 1998 and now runs 1500 head at any given time, currently breeding registered Hereford cattle and commercial F-1 replacement females. “I farmed predominantly produce until 1998, but I’ve been around

Applied Technologies

“My granddaddy did exactly what we’re doing now, but then people got away from it. ”

— MIKE COGGINS

cattle my whole life,” he recalls. He transitioned to cattle in large part as a way to manage his surplus of carrots, and has since found the practice of vertical integration to be beneficial and sustainable. “My granddaddy did exactly what we’re doing now, but then people got away from it,” he says. “We make our best crops where we let the

Above Mike Coggins of Blackwater Cattle Company in Lake Park was named Large Farmer of the Year. Beth Meeks, Georgia Department of Agriculture, Tyler Harper, Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture, Bill Slaughter, Lowndes County Board of Commissioners Chairman, Penny & Mike Coggins, Christie Moore, President Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce, Paige Dukes, Lowndes County Manager, Jim Loar, CJB

Along with his wife, Penny and four employees, Coggins has expanded his reach to move cattle across the state and into national distribution. He and Penny are proud parents of son James Michael Coggins II, daughter Kameron Harwell and her husband Cody, and grandparents to Will and Mack. “This award is a great honor,” he says, “even though I still have no idea who nominated me!”

Like Coggins, Small Farmer of the Year winner Jennifer Sumner of Fancy Girl Farms in Hahira is the granddaughter of farmers, but she grew up working primarily in the restaurant industry. She has always had a passion for small scale gardening but never considered it more than a hobby. “I love being outside,” she says. “And I love working in the ground—anything with dirt!” At the end of 2018 a friend showed her the online account of a flower farm in California, and after some research into farming flowers commercially

“Traditional farmers feed the body, but flower farmers definitely feed the soul. ”

here in Georgia—something she hadn’t thought possible—grew her first crop in the spring of 2019. At about an acre and a half in production, she managed to gain a loyal initial following, first at the Hahira Farmers’ Market during the COVID pandemic and then selling directly to customers on her property.

Along with her horticulturist colleague, Elizabeth Coleman, and her husband, Mike, who helps her run irrigation lines, she grows annuals such as anemones, larkspur, and foxgloves. Customers are able to make their own bouquets from varieties they won’t find at the grocery store. “We try to grow things that won’t export well,” she says. Fancy Girl will be expanding this year to a five-acre tract near downtown Hahira with additional garden space, a market pavilion, café, and a farm-totable restaurant.

Unlike Coggins, Sumner knows the family who nominated her, and was deeply moved by the gesture. “Reading what they wrote made me cry,” she recalls. “When I think about how small my operation is, I don’t feel worthy!” Sumner’s legion of local fans no doubt feels otherwise, as her model is truly unique in an area dominated by livestock and produce operation. It’s a passion that takes creativity and perseverance—especially during cold snaps when she’s out rigging up diesel jet heaters late into the night—but she wouldn’t have it any other way. “I love it when I see grandmothers come here to enjoy the romance of the zinnias and sweet peas just as I did as a young girl. Traditional farmers feed the body, but flower farmers definitely feed the soul.” •VM

cattle graze the land, and we get the best soil health in those areas.”

Left Small Farmer of the Year winner Jennifer Sumner of Fancy Girl Farms in Hahira with Mike Sumner, Beth Meeks, Georgia Department of Agriculture, Tyler Harper, Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture, Bill Slaughter, Lowndes County Board of Commissioners Chairman, Jennifer Sumner, Christie Moore, President ValdostaLowndes Chamber of Commerce, Paige Dukes, Lowndes County Manager, Jim Loar, CJB Applied Technologies

— JENNIFER SUMNER

Join Valdosta Young Professionals (VYP) and elevate your career and connections As a dynamic young professional in Valdosta, seize the opportunity to thrive among young professionals aged 21-40. We're a vibrant community providing social, networking, and educational opportunities

VYP, a Valdosta Chamber program sponsored by Georgia Power, is dedicated to empowering young professionals like you in today's competitive landscape Best part? Membership is free, and no Chamber affiliation is required Expand your professional network and social network at our monthly happy hours, held every second Tuesday from 5-7 pm at local establishments. Connect, exchange ideas, and build lasting professional relationships in a relaxed, welcoming environment

We invite you to join VYP today! Discover the support, guidance, and inspiration needed to reach your full potential

Thomas H. Moseley, Jr., M.D.

Bolan P. Woodward, M.D.

Roy E. Swindle, M.D.

Alexander M. Culbreth, III, M.D.

Kimberly Cross, M.D., M.P.H.

Ana M. Hernandez, M.D.

Sarah Stone, MSN, APRN-CNP

Gina S. Dungan, MSN, NPC

Blair Tomlinson, MSN, APRN-CNP

Kari Tjossem, MCMSc, PA-C

Marie T. Dazey, C.N.M.

Teresa W. Johnson, MSN, APRN-BC, CNM

Stacy C. Reid, MSN, FNP, CNM

Liz Burling, MSN, CNM

RUNNING

Girls on the Run Program

Recognized by U.S. Surgeon General

IN LIFE

Claire Walton set out to create a Girls on the Run chapter for her second-grade daughter in 2014. However, Walton was told she couldn’t make the program for just one school; it had to be for the whole community. With no existing council in Valdosta, she started from scratch but was determined. “I have worked in the non-profit area since I was 13, but at that time I was a stay-at-home mom," Walton said. "I had the experience, so I created the local council and a Board of Directors. I marketed the program and raised money.”

Story by SYDNEY IRELAND | Photos PROVIDED

“I made friendships, some of which lasted through high school, while also learning about the values of kindness and other team-building attributes.”

“The two teams were at Westside and W.G. Nunn in Fall 2015, and it was my mission to make sure there was a program for all girls in Valdosta,” she says. Nine years later, Girls on the Run South Georgia is starting the Spring 2024 season with 19 schools and approximately 300 girls participating.

Last year, the U.S. Surgeon General released a report on the correlation between physical activity and mental health. The statement acknowledges the decline in children getting the recommended physical activity to stay healthy. He recognized Girls on the Run as an initiative that successfully fosters mental and physical health in children.

Statistics cited that 97% of girls who participated said they learned to control their emotions, communicate, ask for help, and resolve conflicts. This is because Girls on the Run is the only all-girls after-school program with an exercise component that has been studied, tested, and proven to work.

According to Walton, the approach is very intentional. “What our coaches say, how they’re trained—it’s all deliberate,” she says. “They're brought into the space with the girls to teach them these life skills and go out into the world to be better prepared for what it will throw at them; it's all planned and purposeful.”

Girls on the Run is about more than running. It is about teaching vital life skills. Walton said the team refers to these

skills as their “virtual toolbox” to pull out in challenging situations.

“We can’t make the world easier or take away the conflict, but we can give them better methods to handle it and be better equipped for it,” she says. “We teach them to take a breather before they respond, to diffuse conflict by using ‘I feel’ statements so that they don’t attack their friend when they’re upset and can open conversations positively. We give them these tiny things that we hope will stick with them as lifelong skills, not something they’ll learn when they’re eight and never use again.”

Executive Director Mary Crawford is responsible for the day-to-day operations of Girls on the Run South Georgia, which includes building the spring season that will culminate with a 5K on April 27th.

Crawford says, “Girls on the Run South Georgia is special because it reaches girls at a time when they are most vulnerable to peer pressure, intense scrutiny, and unrelenting reminders of what society perceives as perfection, particularly on social media. Our evidence-based research is proven to address these challenges.” She’s grateful for the validation of the Surgeon General’s report.

“It was instrumental in helping us bring attention to what the girls are facing,” she observes. “The report underscores the

Below: Addison Mock and her mother, Ashley, after completing the 5K in November.

importance of exercise for all of us, but for girls in particular as it relates to their mental health.”

“I love to see our program in action, how it brings together so many diverse girls that otherwise may not have the opportunity to meet and work together, come together and figure out how to move forward as a group, not just on their team, but also in their school and their community.” Crawford sees this as the opportunity of a lifetime: “I love what I do. I wake up thinking about the challenge every day.”

Regarding the community, Crawford wants people to know that their support matters.

“Girls on the Run South Georgia would not be able to function without our coaches, school administrators, parents,

volunteers, and our sponsors and donors,” she said. “Of course, we have many opportunities for people to sponsor and donate, and financial support is critical to us, but being a presence for our girls is equally critical. Having people cheer them on and encourage them means so much.”

“We want them to learn how to set a goal, not just finish a 5K,” she says. “We teach them lessons that will benefit them for the rest of their lives, right? Set a goal, understand the work it takes to reach it and enjoy the satisfaction of achieving it.”

The powerful women running the program aren’t the only ones getting satisfaction. Third grader Addison ran her first 5K with Girls on the Run in November 2023.

“I like that I got to meet new friends in different grades,” Addison says. “I learned

perseverance, and my favorite lesson was on friendship.”

Girls on the Run is intended to develop skills that last a lifetime. High School junior Karlen Shealey participated between 2016 and 2018 and called it a “phenomenal program.”

“Through Girls on the Run, I made friendships, some of which lasted through high school, while also learning about the values of kindness and other teambuilding attributes,” Shealey says. “We talked about ways to be healthy, be kind, and have fun. It was a great after-school program that was nourishing for me as an elementary student, and it opened many doors to many friendships.”

The program hopes to continue to grow in South Georgia, with more girls and schools participating each season. •VM

AARTS & Culture

LANELL SHEN

Living the Practice of Painting

Photos by CAPTURED BY COLSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Story by NARCI DROSSOS

Portraits of Lanell's daughters hang in her home office.

Years ago, Lanell Shen “instantly fell in love”

while taking an art class with her daughters in Jacksonville, Florida. She recalls that the first assignment was to “draw what you see,” and the second was to draw an elderly person. That portrait of an aged face, with every craggy line and dark shadow, hangs in her home studio as a reminder of those early lessons. At her house, one sees a variety of Shen’s enchanting works, from small still life renderings to vibrant large abstracts, landscapes, and floral pieces.

Shen was born in Grand Junction, Colorado, on a zucchini farm. Having grown restless with small-town life, she and her best friend enlisted in the Navy and boarded a bus bound for Chicago. As a corpsman, her first assignment was in Groton, Connecticut, where she worked in a surgery unit. Following surgical technology school in Washington, D.C., she deployed to Guam for three years and continued to take college classes. Shen notes that she was only a few credits away from her accounting degree when 9-11 occurred. Her service was involuntarily extended for a few months, and it was during that time that she met her husband, Jim, an anesthesiologist. The Navy took them to Jacksonville, and then following a few years there, they chose to move to Valdosta in 2016.

While making a home here, Shen was excited for a new start. Her daughters Fiora and Olivia were in elementary school, so she decided to learn tennis and begin painting at the same time. At the Turner Center, she took an oil painting class with Faye Bridges Hyatt and later with Dean Little. Shen says that Jim set her up with “all the best stuff ” for a home studio, selecting her first easel, and sets of paint and brushes. She notes, “I have been slowly painting and improving since.” When her older daughter reached driving age, she used the time she garnered not driving to dedicate herself further to her art practice. Her home studio has expanded into two – a space for larger works and organized supplies in a garage loft – as well as the original sunny alcove off the master suite.

It’s apparent that Shen personifies a love for the practice of art. Regarding the art lessons, which she continues to take even though she’s now an accomplished artist independently producing her own work, she loves those too. In fact, she paints weekly with Steven Walker, whom she calls an inspiring mentor. In her home office hang portraits of her

daughters that she painted with Walker’s guidance. Shen reflects, “I consider myself a daily painter – meaning that I paint often - small paintings from start to finish in one sitting.” She prefers to paint from life, but sometimes uses photos as a loose reference.

Shen also employs different mediums. She loves the layering process involved with oils, but most of her large paintings are done in acrylic, which dries quickly and is forgiving as well as less costly and toxic than oils. Friends often request abstracts, perhaps in colors that complement their décor. A 5’ X 8” statement piece Shen painted “to go with a favorite rug” hangs at the top of her entryway staircase. If there’s appealing light outside, she paints en plein aire. Recently she captured her daughter Fiora poolside in watercolor and a branch of lemons from a tree in her yard in oils. Every brushstroke of every painting tells a story.

Not one to miss an opportunity, Shen keeps a sketchbook in her kitchen for quick drawings at any moment whether traveling or at home. She observes, “I like to draw people when they’re not paying attention…a quick one minute sketch of figures and faces. I love having notebooks from when we travel. I can look back and remember sitting in that moment, whether at a café or airport.”

In January, Shen was the featured artist on exhibit at Gud Coffee downtown, and she has several pieces on display at the Turner Center, where she placed third in the Spring into Art show last year. She loves the community of artists in Valdosta, noting that connecting with others and giving back by donating pieces for auction is an important part of her practice. To see more of her work, visit the Turner Center downtown and follow her on Instagram at @artbylanell. •VM

“ I CONSIDER MYSELF A DAILY PAINTER - PAINTING A SMALL SIMPLE STILL LIFE FROM START TO FINISH (ALMOST) EVERYDAY. ”

Shen was the featured artist on exhibit at Gud Coffee downtown

AARTS & Culture

Around 300 pages seems to be the magic length for published books; yet, some bestsellers by Amor Towles, Abraham Verghese, and Nathan Hill are more than twice that. There’s something inviting about a big, hefty book.

AFTER ANNIE

by Anna Quindlen (2024) 304 pgs.

Quindlen, a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist, is also a well-known novelist. Her bestselling 1994 novel, One True Thing, was made into a movie starring Meryl Streep and William Hurt. She has since published numerous other books, including nonfiction. As fellow contemporary author Courtney Sullivan notes, “A new Anna Quindlen novel is always cause for celebration.”

After Annie examines modern family life’s love, loss, marriage, and friendship in a closeknit rural Pennsylvania community. As the title

B OOK REVIEWS

suggests, Annie dies – no spoiler here. The first sentence reads: “Annie Brown died right before dinner.” Annie, a caretaker at the local nursing home, and Bill, a plumber, had married young and quickly had four children. They are a busy working family.

Ali, the oldest child and only daughter, tries to become mother to her siblings and take care of her grief-stricken father. It is through Ali’s voice and memories that the reader comes to know Annie as well as what happens – well – after. Almost all the characters flounder in the wake of their loss, including Annie’s best friend, Annemarie. It is through their blended narrative that we learn about Annie’s unextraordinarily wonderful life, and what comes next for those she loved.

FICTION

THE HEIRESS

by Rachel Hawkins (2024) 304 pgs.

Hawkins has been a successful novelist for years, publishing The Ex Hex under the nom de plume Erin Sterling as well as several bestsellers under her own name. The Heiress features a dead heroine, Ruby McTavish, of North Carolina. She comes to life in and out of the narrative through her letters to her son. Ruby was famous as a child for being kidnapped and as an adult for being widowed four times.

Of course, there are rumors about that kidnapping. Is Ruby really the McTavishes’ daughter or a “replacement”? And about all those dead husbands – did she kill them? You

get to return to Ruby’s past to find out. The present tense timeline features Ruby’s adopted son, Camden, and his wife, Jules. They’ve been living in Colorado for years, just getting by with so-so careers until a letter from his cousin persuades him to go home again to the ancestral mansion he’s inherited, Ashby House.

Camden, Jules, and Ruby (via her letters) narrate, and the complications and twists abound. It’s an entertaining weekend read.

FICTION

DIVA

by Daisy Goodwin (2024) 336 pgs.

The first dictionary definition of “diva” is “a famous female opera singer.” A secondary entry adds “temperamental and difficult to please.” Both might fit the Maria Callas in Goodwin’s historical novel. Callas was known simply as “la Divina: the divine one.” The talented soprano of legend comes to life. Born in New York to Greek parents, Maria’s mother took her to Greece. Maria grew up under Nazi occupation, literally singing in the streets for her supper (and to feed her family). Her saving grace is a voice teacher who taught her how to access her vocal range, and take care of her vocal chords.

Over time Maria comes to embody the wronged heroine role of Tosca in Puccini’s opera, and at times she uses her hurt from the passionate and turbulent relationship with Aristotle Onassis. Some of the book’s best scenes focus on their time together on the Onassis yacht. The couple dines in the most acclaimed restaurants in Europe, although Maria barely eats anything other than steak tartare, having lost significant weight as

Narci Drossos describes herself as a compulsive reader, saved in

a young woman to further her career. There are fascinating details of how her clothing designers put together “look books” to help her style herself for an audience no matter where she went.

Though Maria seemingly lives the high life as Onassis entertains famous couples like the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, and Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, she experiences heartbreak when he marries Jackie Kennedy. Diva is rich with vignettes, such as when she meets Marilyn Monroe at President Kennedy’s birthday party (where both famously sing). Well written and informative, this is a treat for Callas fans or anyone.

FICTION

WELLNESS

by Nathan Hill (2023) 597 pgs.

NPR calls Wellness the “perfect novel for our age…a monumental achievement.” A former news reporter, Nathan Hill is now an award-winning novelist. His first book, The Nix, (2016) won the Seidenbaum Prize from the L.A. Times. Wellness, his second, was selected by Oprah for her 2.0 Book Club. No surprise that there are seven years between these hefty novels that “weigh in” at over a pound each. Both hit the New York Times bestseller list.

With remarkable insight, humor, and compassion, Hill satirizes a generation of phone app crazed young adults who are focused on “wellness” and success. In college in Chicago, Jack, an impoverished art student, meets Elizabeth, a moneyed but cruelly treated girl. They become an inseparable pair in Chicago’s underground art scene in the 1990s. A couple of decades later, they are married and facing challenges like raising a child, buying a home, and staying healthy.

There are illuminating backstories revealed throughout regarding Jack and Elizabeth. The timeline moves around but it isn’t difficult to follow. It’s fascinating and fast-moving with compelling digressions that explain the characters.

AARTS & Culture

FICTION BUZZ BOOK TO PREORDER

ABSOLUTION

by Alice McDermott (2023) 336 pgs.

McDermott is a National Book Award winning novelist and a professor at Johns Hopkins University. This novel represents a departure from her typical settings near New York City. From the present-day perspective, she takes readers back to Vietnam in 1963, when two young American wives accompany their husbands to Saigon. Tricia was a parish kindergarten teacher prior to marrying her engineer husband, who is “on loan” to the Navy, and transferred overseas. There she learns that her “housewife” role is a “helpmeet” – and she has no more duties to cook, clean, (servants are so cheap!) or anything other than mingle with the other highly placed U.S. officials’ wives.

At a garden party to meet the other wives soon after Tricia’s arrival, she meets Charlene, who commands a cadre of wives to raise money to “do good deeds” for the locals. Somewhat serendipitously, their highly successful charity venture involves Barbie clothes hand sewn by a local seamstress. The social and economic culture of the 1960s – let alone the role of the U.S. in Vietnam – is fraught with cringe-worthy moments. McDermott evokes that time bravely and without revision. It’s a fascinating read.

THE DIVORCÉES

by Rowan Beaird

(release date March 19, 2024) 272 pgs.

Beaird’s debut novel is part historical, part mystery, and part coming-of-age. Set in 1951 Reno, Nevada, Beaird skillfully illuminates the past microcosm (prior to today’s no-fault divorces) known as the “divorce ranch.” Women like Lois, who thought they were marrying “the right man,” but later wanted to end that marriage, had to declare residency in Nevada. This meant living for six weeks at a ranch established for that purpose outside town. Lois’s father arranges for her stay at the most respectable and expensive of these, The Golden Yarrow.

There are a half dozen other would-be divorcees in residence waiting for their court dates. It’s rather like a fallen sorority house. A proper city girl, Lois learns to ride horses, flirt with cowboys, and gamble at the nearby casinos. As the cover suggests, she swims in the pool, and it is here she befriends a secretive stranger, the gorgeous Greer, who challenges Lois to defy convention. At this point in the narrative, a sinister thread begins to unravel.

Regarding the divorce ranches, a journalist in the Saturday Evening Post observed, “There are pitfalls on every side…the constant danger that the girls will go wild.” The Divorcees is a well-written, sultry, fascinating page-turner that would be a fabulous film (noir, with red lipstick).

MEET THE MERCHANT:

MELANIE PARKS & KRISTEN BROWN

Owner of GRACE LANE Story by AMY FAESKORN / Photo Provided

“WE LOVE THE FEEL OF COMMUNITY SPIRIT HERE. IT'S VERY APPARENT THAT BUSINESS OWNERS ARE COMMITTED TO MAKING THIS PART OF TOWN AN AREA FOR BOTH LOCALS AND VISITORS TO ENJOY.”

When mother-daughter duo Melanie Parks and Kristen Brown discovered last fall that the same retail space their shop (Southern Grace Gifts) had occupied in downtown Valdosta from 2019 to 2021 was once again available, they jumped at the opportunity to relaunch their business, now known as Grace Lane.

“When we first arrived here, we were welcomed with open arms by neighboring merchants as well as the Valdosta community,” Melanie recalls. “We gained so many great connections and relationships that made it hard to close when we did.” With many former customers asking them to come back if they ever found a location, and Melanie now being able to devote more of her time to the day-to-day operations, they decided now was the time to return to the area. “We love the feel of community spirit

There is always a reason to Go Downtown in Valdosta! Unique shops, restaurants, theaters, and galleries provide an eclectic atmosphere where there is something for everyone. This dynamic city is bursting with activity from art events to bustling loft apartments.Come and see what it's all about.

here. It's very apparent that business owners are committed to making this part of town a place for both locals and visitors to enjoy.”

Grace Lane offers a variety of items in their store including their specialty, women's apparel and accessories, along with inspirational gifts, men's travel accessories, bath and body products, home decór, and candles, as well as closing gifts for real estate professionals coming in the near future. “We offer a curated collection that promotes confidence with styles that are modern without being too trendy,” Melanie says. “And we look for classic pieces that are truly timeless.”

Part of what sets Grace Lane apart is its focus on nurturing long-term relationships with its customers, many of whom used to make the drive all the way to their original location in Madison, Florida to shop their unique merchandise. Melanie and Kristen

get to know their customers well and make the effort to remember their preferences, offering tailored recommendations whenever possible. “Our goal is for the boutique to be a place where people can come in and feel welcomed in a setting that feels warm, peaceful, and inviting,” says Melanie. “We want to provide exceptional service that makes every woman feel valued and understood.”

Along with their fellow downtown merchants, Grace Lane participates in First Fridays and just held their first Galentine's event. They look forward to being a part of the other events scheduled for this year. “It's refreshing to meet so many people from this area along with those traveling to our city from other parts of the country,” Melanie says. “It feels great to be part of Valdosta Main Street once again.” •VM

Downtown Valdosta's merchants invite you to explore the shops, restaurants, live music, and more on the first Friday of every month.

First Friday of Every Month

Downtown Valdosta 5pm - 8pm

VALDOSTA MAINSTREET'S DOWNTOWN EASTER EGG HUNT

MONDAY, MARCH 25, 2024 - 8:00AM TO FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2024 - 5:00PM

An exhilarating Egg Hunt Week commencing on Monday, March 25th! Delve into the excitement as daily clues are unveiled on the Valdosta Mainstreet Facebook and Instagram accounts. Race against time to locate the hidden egg each day and seize the chance to win a $50 shopping spree in Downtown Valdosta!

Tune in at 11:00 am sharp every day from March 25th to March 29th for fresh clues. Once the elusive egg is discovered, unravel the instructions enclosed to claim a prize! Let the quest begin, and may the most astute hunter prevail!

downtownvaldosta

a generational lifestyle boutique apparel | accessories | gi s | home decor

111 W. Central Avenue (229) 412-7236 shop_gracelane

Bluesberry Festival

2ND ANNUAL BLUEBERRIES, BREWS & BLUES BLUESBERRY FESTIVAL

Blueberry-themed family-friendly games, eclectic street vendors, live music, and so much more!

WHEN: April 19-20th

WHERE: Unity Park Amphitheater in Historic Downtown Valdosta!

Have a drink while you stroll through downtown shopping, relax in Bennie’s alley, or listen to a band in the Unity Amphitheater. If it’s in the required cup and you only have one cup at a time from participating businesses with an alcohol license – you’re good to stroll. As always, drink responsibly!

MAKERS market

ARTISANS | FARMERS | GROWERS

Second Saturday of Every Month

Historic Courthouse Square

Downtown Valdosta

10am - 2pm

SOUTHERN LIFE DESIGN

Source everything you need to make your kitchen, bath or whole house renovation a success!

106 N. Patterson St.

VALDOSTA FURNITURE

Perfect furniture and accessories for every room.

116 W. Central Ave.

KALEIDOSCOPE

Fine Art Portraits, Fine & Folk Art, Jewelry & Pottery, Vintage & Antiques, and Studio Art Education

122 N. Patterson St.

MOCKINGBIRD

Gifts for any occasion. Home decor, bridal, and baby registry.

117 W. Central Ave.

GRACE LANE

NEW DOWNTOWN: GRACE LANE

A generational lifestyle boutique with apparel, accessories, gifts, and home decor.

111 W. Central Ave.

FLOWER GALLERY

Beautiful floral arrangements and gift baskets.

127 N. Ashley St.

MOCKINGBIRD

KALEIDOSCOPE

VALDOSTA FURNITURE

FLOWER GALLERY

SOUTHERN LIFE DESIGN

aldosta Country Club was busy over the holiday season hosting various events for members and their

families from a Breakfast With Santa, a Christmas Eve Eve Dinner, and the Santa Claus Open golf tournament.

CHRISTMAS EVE EVE DINNER

Caroline Smothers (Justin and Lee), Medley Perry, Evelyn Soshnik (Brad and Sarah), Mae Lincoln (Stephen and Mary Scott), Julia Denham (Michael and Jennifer), and Margaret Perry (Mark and Paige)

Justin, Lee, and Caroline Smothers

Mike, Caroline, Payton, and Payne Elkins

Cary, Farrar, and Ada Brown

Mark, Paige, Tripp, Medley, and Margaret Perry

(Dr.) Hernando, Brooke, Caroline, and Holland Moreno

John, Ashley, Catherine, and Vivian Alday

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

James, Henry, and Joe Worn (Jeff and Cassie)

Karsyn and Avery Barker (Kyle and Ashley)

Blake, Amber, Ellie Gray, Emma Kate, and Blakely Cowart

Avery Rountree (Elijah and Alina) and Griffin Corbett (Brandon and Leigh Anne)

Tanner, Annelise, and Eloise Branham

Anna Kate Becton (Evan and Kayla)

SANTA CLAUS OPEN

Bubba Highsmith, David Parker, Greg Talley, John Lastinger

John Gayle, Glenn Copeland, Billy Grondahl, Franklin Patten

Elijah Rountree, Brandon Corbett, Josh Bohannon

Franklin Patten, Jeff Brown

Parker Lincoln, Justin Smothers

Parker Highsmith, Payne Elkins, Mac Mackey

The 2nd Annual Go Red Women of the Chamber luncheon, co-hosted by the Valdosta Chamber of Commerce and SGMC Health, was held on February 2, 2024 at Valdosta Country Club. The event raises awareness about cardiovascular disease in women. Dr. Patrick Murrah, SGMC Health Cardiothoracic Surgeon, shared crucial insights on women's health.

Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors, Kathleen Lindsey, John Joseph

Don Hutchinson, Ashley Tye

Local and State leaders, AshBritt Staff, Alonzo Mourning, BGC staff and children, and program attendees

Jeanette Coody, Amber Nichols Hodges

Takeriyona Brown, Matt Gierden, Sara Perkins, Charles Williams

Former NBA player Alonzo Mourning, Sara Perkins, Kristin Hanna, Randy Perkins, Matt Gierden

Kimberly Grisson-Dixon, Nazarine Dorsey-Bell

Leaders from the community and across the state gathered to cut the ribbon on the AshBritt Gymnasium at the Boys & Girls Club of Valdosta. Former NBA player Alonzo Mourning along with the Mourning Family Foundation and several young members of the Club made some of the first free throw shots. When Hurricane Idalia hit, Lowndes County enlisted AshBritt Foundation emergency response teams for disaster recovery throughout the community. However, AshBritt did not stop

6:30pm

DINNER & SHOW: $75

Reservations required

SHOW ONLY: $25

Reservations

BOX OFFICE: 229-333-2150

there. When they heard Hurricane Idalia left the Boys & Girls Club gym flooded and the floor ruined, the Foundation had a new floor installed, at no cost to the Club.

Thank you, AshBritt Foundation, Lowndes County, Lowndes County EMA, Emergency Management Director Ashley Tye, and the Valdosta, A City Without Limits, for your incredible efforts in the wake of Hurricane Idalia. Our community is stronger because of you.

Names Young people from the Boys & Girls Club's Lake Laurie Unit, Dr. Calvin Walker, Brittanye Blake, Kimberly Grisson-Dixon, Nazarine Dorsey-Bell

Sara Perkins, Alonzo Mourning, Kristin Hanna

THE 2024 LOWNDES COUNTY BIRD SUPPER

The annual Lowndes County Bird Supper was held on January 17, 2024, at the Georgia Railroad Depot in Atlanta. The traditional event, sponsored by the Lowndes County Board of

Commissioners and the City of Valdosta, brings together hundreds of state officials, local businesses, and professional and government personnel for a dinner of quail and meaningful conversations.

Lemongrass

Only

Palm

Perfect Settings

Presbyterian Home

Quail Branch Lodge

Quiet Pines Golf Course

Renasant Bank

Ron Borders Property Management

South Georgia Medical Center

Southeast Capital Investments

Southern Life Design

Southern OB/GYN

SouthLife Supply Co.

Southwell

Steel's Jewelry

Stifel Valdosta

Synovus

The Avriett House

The Crescent

The Flower Gallery

The Gardens

The Links

The McKey

Turner Center for the Arts

Valdosta Chamber of Commerce

Valdosta Chiropractic

Valdosta Country Club

Valdosta Eye Center

Valdosta Furniture & Mattress

Valdosta Insuance

Valdosta State University Opera

Valdosta Symphony Orchestra

Visit Valdosta

Weddings by Maryssa

Wells Fargo

Wes Sewell Photography

White Weddings

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Photo of artist Lanell Shen’s painter’s palette by Gandy Photographers