Valdosta GA Community Profile by Town Square Publications, LLC

VALDOSTA L O W N D E S

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C O U N T Y

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Welcome here. Welcome home. At Synovus, we’d like to offer you a warm local welcome. You soon discover we’re more than just a bank – we’re your neighbors and friends. We hope you’ll look for us for all the financial services you need. We’re here. For you. 1-888-SYNOVUS | synovus.com

Synovus Bank, Member FDIC.

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VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

WILD ADVENTURES Wild Adventures, your hometown theme park, has been an integral part of the Valdosta-Lowndes County community for more than 20 years, starting as a petting zoo and growing into the region’s largest entertainment attraction. There’s something for everyone at Wild Adventures, a combination theme park, zoo, concert venue and waterpark. Visitors will find more than 40 family and thrill rides, including seven roller coasters. Move as fast as a jungle cat on Cheetah, soar over alligators on Swamp Thing and come back again and again for Boomerang.

Splash Island Waterpark at Wild Adventures spans 17 acres and contains more than a million gallons of fun for the whole family. Splash down on the Hakini Rapids and Kona Cliffs waterslides. Relax in the lazy Paradise River and Catch-a-Wave Bay wave pool. Families can enjoy 15 attractions, including the multimillion dollar Ohana Bay expansion, which creates a fun place for toddlers and small children to play while their parents lounge in the sun. Splash Island was named one of the Top 30 Waterparks in the country by U.S. News and World Report in 2018.

The park is open select days March through December, and daily during the summer.

The park is also home to more than 55 species of animals, including zebras, lions, tigers, alligators, a rhinoceros and an elephant. Take a leisurely, educational stroll on the Alapaha Trail and come face to face with green monkeys, black bears and more. Feed a giraffe or get up close and personal with many of these amazing animals on the Safari Train. The Wild Adventures Summer Concert series brings big name shows to South Georgia every year. Recently, ALABAMA, The Beach Boys, Mercy Me, Jeff Foxworthy, Lynryd Skynryd and 3 Doors Down have all played at the park’s All-Star Amphitheater. Concerts and shows are included with admission to Wild Adventures.

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A Herschend Family Entertainment property, Wild Adventures strives to create memories worth repeating for guests, along with sister parks Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri; Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee; and Stone Mountain Park in North Georgia. w

WILD ADV ENT URE S

Wild Adventures is also a great place for groups, churches and family reunions, offering meeting spaces, catering and discount packages for large groups that are perfect for business retreats and family getaways.

Season passes are available; plan to return again and again to play throughout spring and summer and then experience the frights of fall with “Terror in the Wild” and the magic of winter with “Wild Adventures Christmas.”

3 www.valdostachamber.com

Ride a coaster, catch a wave or feed a giraffe at Wild Adventures

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VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

Im So ap an

TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CO NT E NT S

| Wild Adventures

| Chamber Welcome

| Top Things to Do

| Fishing and Hunting

| Recreation

| Arts & Culture

• • • • • • • • • • •

Credit:Valdosta State University

www.valdostachamber.com

“Valdosta’s Oldest Repair Shop.”

Real Living Realty Advisors 1003 Williams St • Valdosta, GA 31601

www.realliving.com Emily Courson, Realtor O: 229.333.4622 C: 229.630.2014 1817 Green Circle Valdosta, GA 31602

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39 eawarren@gmail.com

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Imagine a community designed with Classic, Southern style and charm. Spacious garden apartments are nestled within Majestic Oaks and built with fine details. • Gated Access • Car Care Center • 24-hour Emergency Maintenance Service • On-Site Management • 24/7 Fitness Facility • Large swimming pool with sundeck and grill cabana • Lighted, Clay Tennis Court • Sand Volleyball Court • Playground / Recreational Area • “Bark” Park • Excellent community for active lifestyles

At Tall Tree Apartments, you'll experience southern hospitality at its best. Come live where you and your home are a priority and your happiness is not just assumed, but guaranteed. • New Chemical Free Salt System POOL • Large Built-In Pool Side Grill • Pets Welcomed with Love • Bark Park • Playground Area • 24hr Emergency Maintenance Service • Fully Equipped Kitchens • Patio/Balconies • Large Fitness Facility • Grills and Picnic Areas Throughout

3925 N. OAK STREET EXT. VALDOSTA, GA 31605 229-247-9880 Phone 229-247-9730 Fax

420 CONNELL ROAD VALDOSTA, GA 31602 229-244-9632 Phone 229-245-9424 Fax

www.statencrossingapartments.com

www.talltreeapartments.com

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TABLE OF CO NT E NT S

www.valdostachamber.com

THE BANK FOR

| Shopping and Dining in Valdosta

| Hahira

| Leadership

| Giving Back to the Community

| Health Care

| Education

T H E BANK FOR YOU

Lowndes County.

Whether you are looking to purchase your dream home, finance your business, or just find a better checking relationship we are here to help you achieve your financial goals.Visit us at one of our convenient locations! Hahira | Morven | North Valdosta | Baytree Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender www.citizenscommunitybank.net

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• • • • • •

Permanent & Temporary Staffing Payroll Solutions Training & Testing Drug & Alcohol Testing Background Checks Ask about our customized services!

ls l i k S e h T . d e e n u o y e l p o e p The . t n a w you

2904-E N Patterson St Valdosta, GA 31602 229.316.1320 Apply online at

www.NewHireSolutions.com Offices located in Valdosta • Fitzgerald • Thomasville • Cairo and serving surrounding areas.

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This is a Town Square Publication created and produced for the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce 416 N. Ashley St. | Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 247-8100 www.valdostachamber.com Copyright© 2018 Town Square Publications 155 E. Algonquin Rd., Arlington Heights, IL 60005 www.townsquarepublications.com Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication. The Chamber and Town Square assume no responsibility for misinformation. Please contact the Chamber with any additions or corrections. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of the Chamber and Town Square is prohibited.

TABLE OF CO NT E NT S

| Government

| Moody Air Force Base

| Location and Transportation

| Residential Living

| Houses of Worship Community Inﬂuence

| Preferred Business Listings

| Advertiser Index

We Handle With Care and Serve With a Smile

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2 9209 Northside Drive (Five Points) 1900 Gornto Road (Mall) 3219-M North Oak St. (North) 3976 N. Valdosta Rd. (Northwest) 415 W. 4th St. Adel. Ga

Vice President / Director | Scott Ray Production Manager | Joseph Nugara

Mr. B’s IGA

DRY CLEANERS & LAUNDRY

Five Locations:

President and Chief Operating Officer | Scott Stone

Editor | Gail Gaboda

Pleats & Creases 22

www.valdostachamber.com

Chairman, CEO and Publisher | Douglas K. Ray

We Are a Local Business We Are Licensed & Bonded We Will Work Around Your Schedule We Serve Moody Air Force Base

Call, Text or Email us Today For a Great Moving Experience Tomorrow! 229-300-7150 • mudanzaga@gmail.com www.mudanzamovingandcleaning.com

Mr. B’s IGA specializes in the groceries your family needs. Whatever you are looking for, you’ll ﬁnd it at Mr. B’s IGA. Visit our supermarket and see what we have to offer.

1405 N. Lee Street Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 245-8300 facebook.com/MrBsIGA

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Buying a home? You need a Financial Expert When you’re shopping for a home loan, make sure you’ve got the right fit for your budget and your future. From the security of long-term, fixed-rate options to the flexibility of adjustable rate mortgages and low-down payment programs, we have affordable, attractive choices.

… And a friend! If you’re shopping for a new home, contact Dana today. She’ll help you every step of the way! Dana Williams Mortgage Originator NMLS #35191 3774 Old US Highway 41 N Valdosta, Georgia 31602 (229) 241-9900

You belong here.

www.colonybank.com NMLS #408873 GAVALCW18 design.indd 9

Member FDIC 8/16/2018 9:43:12 AM

South Georgia Connections: WELCOMING NEWCOMERS FOR MORE THAN 60 YEARS

For more than 60 years, new residents to South Georgia have been answering friendly knocks on their doors to be greeted by the many smiling faces of South Georgia Connections.

SO UTH GE ORG IA CO NNE CT IO NS

Florence Millians planted the ﬁrst welcoming seeds in 1956 with her well-known 1950s-style Welcome Wagon. Since 1994, Patti Minton and Karen Reissiger, along with a staff of greeters and volunteers, now touch the

www.valdostachamber.com

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lives of more than 1,000 people each year through a personal visit and reach countless others via their FYi* South Georgia Resource Guide and their website, www.sgaconnections.com. Although South Georgia Connections and its publication began by serving Valdosta, through the years it has expanded to the neighboring communities. Information about each community is available on the company’s website, which provides valuable information about services and resources you will need when you move, utility numbers, local events and one-day outings, as well as some of the most delicious Southern recipes. Thomasville

was a new addition to the FYi* South Georgia guide this year. South Georgia Connections works with local businesses to provide information about their business or service for families new to the community. Businesses interested in becoming a sponsor in the Newcomer Packet may sign up on the website under Become A Sponsor. Newcomers may request a welcome packet by visiting www.sgaconnections. com and going to the New To Town section. New residents may request an in-home visit from a greeter to receive the welcome packet, or meet the South Georgia Connections greeter at a restaurant, coffee shop or bookstore. South Georgia Connections also offers a customization feature, Create Your Own Packet, which allows newcomers to request the things they are looking for in their new community. South Georgia Connections is more than a welcome service; it is also a ministry that has helped people ﬁnd jobs, housing and medical assistance, and greeters have provided an ear to listen as a newcomer tries to adjust to a new town. While the faces have changed through the years, the mission has remained the same – to connect new residents with their community and welcome them with true Southern Hospitality.

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Valdosta’s Hospitality Headquarters!

FREE Hot Deluxe Breakfast FREE Manager’s Reception Mon-Thurs FREE High Speed Wired and Wireless Internet 43” Flat Panel HDTV’s with 74 Channels & HBO Micro-Fridges/Coffee Makers/Radios w/iPod & mp3 Port Sleeper Sofas in all Suites Jacuzzi, Executive & 2-Room Suites Meeting Space, Fitness Center & Business Center Swimming Pool & Guest Laundry Great Location!

FREE Hot Deluxe Breakfast FREE Manager’s Reception Mon-Thurs FREE High Speed Wired and Wireless Internet 43” Flat Panel TV’s with 74 Channels & HBO Micro-Fridges/Coffee Makers/Radios w/iPod & mp3 Port Sleeper Sofas in all Suites Jacuzzi, Executive & 2-Room Suites Meeting Space, Fitness Center, Business Center Swimming Pool & Guest Laundry Great Location!

SPECIAL GOVERNMENT & MILITARY RATES

I-75 (Exit 18) at Valdosta Mall 1330 N. St. Augustine Road Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 249-8900 (800) 465-4329 www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

I-75 (Exit 18) at Valdosta Mall 1332 N. St. Augustine Road Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 249-8880 (800) 221-2222 www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

I-75 (Exit 16) & Hwy 84 1827 W Hill Ave

229-249-8800

I-75 (Exit 16) & Hwy 84 1825 W Hill Ave

229-249-8000

I-75 (Exit 16) & Hwy 84 1785 W Hill Ave

229-249-1000

I-75 (Exit 18) near Mall

1383 N St Augustine Rd 229-244-7600

I-75 (Exit 18) near Mall

1389 N St Augustine Rd 229-244-8440

I-75 (Exit 18) near Mall

1003 N St Augustine Rd 229-249-2000

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VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

CHAMBER WELCOME Living in a community that is welcoming, artsy, and just plain fun – well, that’s what we call “Very Valdosta!” If you are a newcomer, we are glad you’re here. You can relax, knowing that you have found a place you can really call home. And prepare yourself – you will find that Valdosta has a few surprises you might not expect in a small city.

FOR EXAMPLE?

Our downtown. It’s wonderful! With

historic buildings, a cigar bar, myriad downtown restaurants, quality entertainment and art, lovely alleyways and The ‘Dosta Theater, our downtown truly is an exceptional experience. Taking advantage of First Fridays in downtown is definitely “Very Valdosta.”

Our natural surroundings. Grand Bay CHAMBER WE LCO ME

is visually stunning, educational and has a sense of uniqueness with the tower and boardwalks. Hunting, fishing or spending a day outdoors at the wakeboard compound is “Very Valdosta.”

Our arts and culture scene. How many cities of our size have their own award-winning symphony orchestra? We excel at the performing arts with professional productions by Peach State Summer Theatre and the Presenter Series. Looking for outstanding visual art? The Turner Center for the Arts is the real deal. Being seen at the Valdosta Symphony and attending the annual Spring Into Art at the Turner Center is certainly “Very Valdosta.” And while you’re downtown, be sure to visit our unique art shops.

www.valdostachamber.com

Estate Planning Probate Guardianship Elder Law

Criminal Defense Personal Injury Family Law DUI

701 Baytree Road, Suite C Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 232-4873 walt@moodylawfirm.net www.moodylawfirm.net

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Come see us for your automotive, RV and semi tires! We can also handle all of your other automotive needs! 2311 S Patterson St. | Valdosta, GA

(229) 244-8353

✓ Air Express / Freight ✓ Trucking ✓Ocean ✓ Priority 1 ✓ Courier Service ✓ DHL

SHIP WITH THE BEST.. FORGET THE REST! 3470-G2 North Valdosta Rd. Valdosta, GA 31062

229-249-0997 www.sss4u.com

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Our nightlife. We have everything

imaginable, from rooftop bars to roadhouses and karaoke discotheques. We have R&B joints and quaint pubs, as well as sophisticated cocktail lounges and fine dining restaurants.

Our family atmosphere. What a great community for families! There are dozens of special activities for kids – educational, athletic, artistic…and just plain fun. Spending a day or a weekend at Wild Adventures Theme Park is “Very Valdosta,” with rides, a zoo, outstanding concerts and great food.

CH AMBE R WELCOME

Our university. We consider Valdosta State University to be one of our most valuable treasures. Faculty, administrators and students from all over the world help make our community surprisingly cosmopolitan. Our university adds art, culture and new perspectives that truly enrich our community life. Our Air Force Base. Not many communities can call themselves a “Great American Defense Community,” but Valdosta can! Our community takes care of the men, women and children at Moody Air Force Base. We value them for the service they provide to our country, and we value the role they play in our community. Our motto is “Moody is us.”

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(229) 242-2600 WWW.VALDOSTACITY.COM

www.valdostachamber.com

Our Chamber wants to be among the first to welcome you to the community! Throughout this edition of our bi-annual community resource guide, we’ll not only give you a closer look at our community, but we will also introduce you to some interesting residents who share their experiences. We hope their words will inspire you to see for yourself why people in all stages of life are enjoying those special things that are “Very Valdosta” that make our community a special place to be.

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VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

TOP THINGS TO DO 2

FIRST FRIDAYS IN DOWNTOWN VALDOSTA

http://valdostamainstreet.com/ event-calendar The charm of downtown Valdosta is on full display during First Fridays, which take place on the first Friday of each month. Downtown businesses, galleries, restaurants and boutiques often host events to draw in and entertain customers. The event includes various locations throughout downtown.

TOP T HINGS T O DO

www.valdostachamber.com

GOLFING IN VALDOSTA

Golfers are in luck when they live in/ visit Valdosta, as there are several excellent courses in the area. Stone Creek Golf Club (http://gagolf. com) is just off I-75 and is the place “Where Southern Hospitality Meets Championship Golf.” Kinderlou Forest Golf Course (www.kinderlou-golf.com) has a Davis Love III signature designed 18-hole championship golf course and has been the site of eight PGA Tour qualifying tournaments in its 10-year history. Valdosta Country Club (www. valdostacc.com) is a members-only club that has three beautiful 9-hole courses and has been in the heart of the city since 1917. The Valdosta area offers a range of activities – from downtown special events to recreational activities in the country – throughout the year.

Credit:Valdosta State University

Here is a look at some of the highlights:

PEACH STATE SUMMER THEATRE

www.valdosta.edu/colleges/arts/ communication-arts/psst Every year, dozens of theater professionals flock to Valdosta for a 10-week session of the Peach State Summer Theatre. The program, which has been an offshoot of the Valdosta State University Theatre program for almost three decades, presents a trio of musicals each summer. Many visitors make a point to come to Valdosta each year to be entertained by the company of about 60 actors, singers and dancers. Credit:Valdosta State University

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AZALEA FESTIVAL

www.azaleafestival.com The surest sign of spring in Valdosta is the annual Azalea Festival, which started almost 20 years ago and is one of the most popular activities in the Valdosta area each year. Visitors come from several states to participate in the activities, watch the entertainment, purchase a variety of food and, of course, see the azaleas in bloom at Drexel Park.

HAHIRA HONEY BEE FESTIVAL

www.hahirahoneybeefest.com Tens of thousands of visitors come to Hahira every year for the Hahira Honeybee Festival, which was started by a couple of local women in 1981 who wanted to â&#x20AC;&#x153;liven up â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Our Most Valuable Asset is our Customers. Since 1934

Northside: 2728 N Oak St

T O P THINGS TO DO

Lake Park: 821 Lakes Blvd

Downtown: 411 N Patterson St

Norman Dr: 460 Norman Dr

We offer:

Checking, Savings, Retirement, Health Savings, Consumer Loan, Line of Credit, and Mortgage Loan Products It is our pleasure doing business with you! (229) 244-0164

www.valdostachamber.com

www.1stfederalvaldosta.com

ersity

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the city.” Their plan certainly worked, as the fall festival is now a full week featuring arts and crafts, entertainment and a parade and is one of the most notable events in South Georgia.

GRAND BAY

https://georgiawildlife.com/grand-bay-wma Hiking and hunting are two of the most popular activities at the Grand Bay Wildlife Management Area, which includes more than 8,000 acres. There are hunting opportunities for small game, deer, waterfowl and turkey on the approximately 3,000 acres of pine and hardwood forest and more than 5,000 acres of cypress/gum wetlands. Visitors can learn about wetland habitat at the Grand Bay Wetland Education Center.

MISS KATE’S DEEP SOUTH TOURS

www.misskatestours.com You’ve never really explored all that downtown Valdosta has to offer until you’ve taken a food-focused trip with Miss Kate’s. The tours showcase hidden discoveries for participants, as they connect people with the city’s best food and drink. Even if you live in Valdosta, there’s still plenty to learn through the owners and chefs who run the city’s top restaurants. Tours also incorporate the history, architecture and culture of the area.

8 TOP T HINGS T O DO

http://moodyfss.com/grassy-pond For many years, Grassy Pond was a getaway nature area for military personnel and families. In 2015, it opened to the public and now offers a 500-acre recreational area with amenities including cabins, RV sites, tent sites, recreational boat area and nature trails. There is a boat launch and a large fishing area, plus equipment rentals. Picnics are permitted in designated areas.

16 www.valdostachamber.com

GRASSY POND

Honoring all our Family Members 1725 Gornto Road Valdosta, GA 31601

229-253-0009

Valdosta’s only local Pet crematory Complimentary breakfast, New 37” Flat Screen TVs Pet Friendly, On-Site Fitness Center, Swimming Pool, Free Wireless Internet Access

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www.McLaneCares.com 229-244-0007

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9 VALDOSTA WAKE COMPOUND www.valdostawakecompound.com In 2011, two wakeboarding enthusiasts opened the Valdosta Wake Compound, which has become a major draw for wakeboarders and wakeskaters from throughout the country. The park is designed for everyone, from beginners to expert riders. It includes about 30 acres with a 10acre lake, and has features – such as a natural pool gap for its full cable – that no other such facility has in the country.

THE BRUSH-UP

www.thebrushup1.com Even if your artistic talent is – to be kind – limited, it’s still fun to visit The Brush Up for a get-together with friends, family or work colleagues. A local artist will provide stroke-by-stroke instructions to help you create a piece of art you’ll be proud of, and possibly even display at home! You’ll always remember the fun you’ll have tapping into your creative side. w

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www.saftbatteries.com

https://www.twitter.com/Saft_batteries https://www.linkedin.com/company/saft https://www.youtube.com/c/Saft_DesignedforIndustry https://www.instagram.com/saftbatteries/

Valdosta Manufacturing Plant: Saft America, Inc. 711 Gil Harbin Industrial Blvd. Valdosta, GA 31601

Manufacturing Ni-Cd batteries for aviation, rail and telecom applications

Tel: 229-247-2331

US Corporate Headquarters: Saft America, Inc. 13575 Waterworks Street Jacksonville, FL 32221

17 www.valdostachamber.com

valdostamainstreet.com Every quarter, the art galleries in Historic Downtown Valdosta come alive during the Art Walk. The event, which has taken place for the last three years, often includes a wine tasting experience at participating locations. Downtown merchants participate in the event, which is organized by Valdosta Main Street.

T O P THINGS TO DO

10 ART WALK IN DOWNTOWN VALDOSTA

Manufacturing Li-Ion battery systems for industrial, transportation, telecom and grid applications

Tel: 904-861-1501

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VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

FISHING AND HUNTING Some of the best fishing and hunting in the country is in the South Georgia area, much of it in or near Lowndes County. One of the most popular Lowndes County locations for both hunting and fishing is the Grand Bay Wildlife Management Area. The WMA includes more than 8,000 acres – about 2,600 on state land and about 5,800 licensed by the U.S. Air Force.

FIS HING AND H U NT ING

With 3,059 acres of upland pine and hardwood forest and almost 5,500 acres of cypress/gum wetlands, the WMA has many opportunities for hunting, including small game, deer, turkey and waterfowl. During hunting season, hiking trails are closed.

www.valdostachamber.com

Lake fishing is available at the site, as well as canoeing. The main access points are at the check station/education center entrance on Knight’s Academy Road and the federal land entrance off U.S. Highway 221. Another nearby fishing spot is Grassy Pond, which is under the jurisdiction of Moody Air Force Base but is open to the public daily. The 500-acre recreational area has a fishing area that includes a boat launch for personal boats and equipment rentals. The pond includes large-mouth bass, catfish, bluegill and crappies. The Valdosta-Lowndes County Parks and Recreation Authority makes it easier for local residents and visitors to enjoy a day on the banks or in the river. For example, the district offers boat ramps so residents can access local rivers such as the Little River and the Withlacoochee. There is fishing available in three parks as well – Oris Blackburn Memorial Park has a boat ramp for jon boats, and Chitty Park and Payton Park each have ponds for bank fishing.

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Other popular Lowndes County fishing areas, according to hookandbullet.com, include: • Ulmers Pond, which is 2 miles from Valdosta and includes crappie, largemouth bass, gar, bullhead, catfish, smallmouth bass, bream and bluegill. • Langdales Pond and Registers Pool, which are less than 4 miles from Valdosta. • Knights Creek, which is about 4 miles from Valdosta, has brown trout, rainbow trout, catfish, crappie and redbreast sunfish. People enjoy fly fishing, spinning or baitcasting at the creek. • Boring Pond, which is about 7 miles from Valdosta, in Lowndes County. Within an hour of the Valdosta area there are several notable natural areas that offer a variety of activities, including fishing: • Banks Lake, a national wildlife refuge comprised of almost 3,600 acres, is about a half-hour away in Lanier County. It was purchased by the federal government in 1985 and is within the second-largest freshwater wetland system in Georgia. It features a shallow blackwater lake that has many types of fish and other aquatic animals. About 20,000 people use the refuge each year. Fish caught most often include largemouth bass, chain pickerel, warmouth perch, crappie, bluegill and catfish. • Also about a half-hour away from Valdosta, in Cook County, Reed Bingham State Park has a 375-acre lake that includes excellent fishing for crappie, catfish, bass and bream, with three boat ramps and two fishing docks. The 1,600-acre park also offers canoe and kayak rentals and has an array of wildlife, including gopher tortoises, alligators, indigo snakes and even nesting bald eagles in winter. The park is less than 6 miles off I-75. It also

has a sand beach, several picnic and group shelters, dozens of site-specific campsites, 7 miles of hiking and biking trails and a playground. • Paradise Public Fishing Area includes 68 lakes that total more than 500 acres. Fishing is available by boat or from land, and popular species include brown bullhead, channel catfish, redear sunfish, largemouth bass, bluegill and crappie. The area, which is within an hour of Valdosta, also has accommodations for picnics, canoeing and camping. • Almost an hour away, Stephen C. Foster State Park has North America’s largest blackwater swamp. There are plenty of cypress trees as well as much wildlife, including black bears, deer, herons, wood storks and alligators in the 400,000-plus acre area. There are outstanding fishing opportunities in the lake, which includes catfish, chain pickerel, warmouth, bluegill and bowfin. You can rent canoes, kayaks and jon boats, but boating depends on water levels. In addition to hunting on public land in Grand Bay, there are several private facilities for hunting within about an hour of Valdosta, including: • Owen Farms Hunting Preserve near Tifton. • Southwind Clays and Quail in Quitman. • Live Oak Plantation in Adel. • Wild Ridge Plantation in Thomasville. • Boggy Pond Plantation, Ashburn Hill Hunting Preserve and Sundown Farms Plantation, all in Moultrie. • Baypole Plantation in Meigs. • Quailridge Plantation in Norman Park. • Bienville Plantation in White Springs, Florida. • Yustega Plantation in Madison, Florida. w

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FIS H ING A ND HUNTING www.valdostachamber.com

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VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

RE CRE ATIO N

RECREATION

www.valdostachamber.com

Valdosta-Lowndes County Parks & Recreation Authority Like the visitors to its parks, the ValdostaLowndes County Parks and & Recreation Authority (VLPRA) is continually on the move. Always looking for new ways to serve its residents, VLPRA often updates its offerings for young and old and has programs that go well beyond what similar-sized districts offer. It’s no wonder the Georgia Recreation & Park Association named VLPRA the Agency of the Year three times in the last four years for its population category. The VLPRA continually strives to be the leading force in superior, affordable recreation services and facilities for all residents of Valdosta and Lowndes County, according to its mission statement. Here are a few examples of how it fulfills its mission:

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PARKS AND FACILITIES VLPRA manages and maintains 44 parks and facilities to serve all residents of Valdosta and Lowndes County. Included in those facilities are 877 acres featuring: • 32 athletic and multipurpose fields • High paved walking tracks • 24 playscapes/playgrounds and splash pads • Two pools • 15 tennis courts • Seven recreation & community centers • Disc golf course • Dog park • Mountain bike trail • Sand volleyball court • Skate park • Five outdoor basketball courts • Amphitheater • Five boat ramps VLPRA is also in the process of expanding its tennis center by adding six courts, which will give it a total of 18.

The community centers, which all have rental facilities, play host to a variety of programming. The administration building at Forrest Street features a full-size kitchen and sanctuary, a full-size basketball court and is home to the booming youth athletics division. The Mildred Hunter Community Center hosts the adult basketball program, remote control car club, drill team and fitness classes. In addition, there is an outdoor pool next to Harrington Park, providing a respite on hot summer days.

THERAPEUTICS DIVISION AND MIRACLE FIELD VLPRA has a Therapeutics Division that provides recreational, social and leisure activities for individuals with disabilities. Activities include picnics, arts/crafts activities and Special Olympics teams. Seasonal special events include the EggCeptional Egg Hunt in the spring – which has received regional, state and national recognition – and the Young Adult Club Prom in the summer, which are open to ’

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♦ Azalea’s Restaurant & Lounge ♦ Full Service Amenities ♦ Meeting & Reception Facilities ♦ First Class Accommodations ♦ 40” Flat Panel HD Televisions ♦ Family, Executive & Jacuzzi Suites ♦ Fitness Center & Business Center ♦ Hot Tub & Large Swimming Pool ♦ Complimentary Airport Shuttle

HOLIDAY INN HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER

I-75 (Exit 16) ♦ 1805 West Hill Avenue ♦ Valdosta, GA (229) 244-1111 (800) 465-4329 Voted “Best Hotel in South Georgia” www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

Exit 16 229-249-8800 Valdosta

Exit 18 229-249-8900 Valdosta

Exit 18 229-244-7600 Valdosta

Exit 62 229-382-3300 Tifton

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Exit 18 229-249-8880 Valdosta

Exit 16 229-244-1111 Valdosta

Exit 18 229-249-2000 Valdosta

Exit 62 229-382-8100 Tifton

Owned and operated by Williams Investment Company A proud part of South Georgia’s growth since 1963

Exit 16 229-249-1000 Valdosta

Exit 16 229-249-8000 Valdosta

Exit 39 229-896-4574 Adel

Exit 62 Exit 18 229-382-8250 229-244-8440 Tifton Valdosta

Exit 62 229-382-8505 Tifton

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RE CRE ATIO N

all in the community with disabilities and their families. In addition, VLPRA offers a Young Adult Club (14 years old and up) with monthly activities and a summer day program for 10- to 21-year-olds called Summer Safari.

www.valdostachamber.com

In addition, VLPRA is working with Miracle Field of Valdosta to construct a Miracle Field Complex at Freedom Park, which will include the Miracle Field and four standard fields.

YOUTH SPORTS & CAMPS Youth-focused activities are a bedrock for the VLPRA. Several youth sports are aligned with the local schools and children play on teams based on where they attend school. These school-based leagues include football & cheerleading, basketball and a rapidly expanding volleyball league.

“These teams build community and allow kids to practice in their neighborhoods, often at or near their own school, depending on the sport,” said VLPRA Executive Director George Page. “It encourages school spirit and builds camaraderie among classmates who get to grow together in the leagues.”

The Miracle Field is a two-dimensional field with a rubberized surface specifically for people with disabilities. People using wheelchairs or walkers or those with fall risks can play sports on this field as there is no dirt, grass or other objects which could be a trip hazard. The field will be the site of Miracle League games as well as Special Olympics games and events through VLPRA’s Therapeutics Division. The Miracle Field Complex, which will include a pavilion, a concession stand, and a boundless playground where children of all abilities can play together, should be complete in 2019.

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POWERING OUR COMMUNITIES Valdosta is our home too. That’s why we’ve partnered with the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce and other local chambers, development authorities and elected officials across the state to stimulate growth and invest in the future of our communities.

VLPRA also offers popular baseball, softball and T-ball leagues in the spring and fall as well as three seasons of soccer. In addition to sports leagues, the awardwinning Marching Pride Drill Team at the Mildred Hunter Center is a highly regarded mentoring program, instilling self-confidence, discipline and integrity. The ROTC-style program is for pre-teen and teenage boys and boasts success stories of young men who have grown up to be leaders in their communities.

ADULT ACTIVITIES VLPRA offers a variety of adult activities as well, including tennis (leagues, clinics and lessons) multiple softball and basketball leagues and kickball.

1900 Gornto Rd | Suite G Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 247-3558

FAMILY ACTIVITIES The district offers several special events and activities for the whole family such as the annual Fourth of July Fireworks show in the mall area and the free Movies in the Park series. Also, there are tennis clinics and lessons for all ages, and holiday-themed activities such as “Spaghetti with Santa” and the “Ugly Sweater 5K.” “We take pride in providing memorable special events and all around exceptional programming,” Page said. “It’s an honor to become part of a family’s tradition, whether that be on a ball field or under a fireworks show. We take that responsibility seriously and are humbled to contribute to a high quality of life standard in Valdosta & Lowndes County.” w

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R ECRE ATION

VLPRA also offers monthly dances at the Senior Center as well as activities such as guitar lessons and workout classes.

COMMUNITY 1st Franklin Financial Corporation is in the business of helping our friends and neighbors make their way through life with the dignity and respect they deserve. Since 1941, we have worked in local communities to provide financial solutions for our customers and their families.

23 www.valdostachamber.com

There are many opportunities at the Senior Center, which has amenities such as a large multipurpose room with a full kitchen, an exercise room with cardio and weights, library, heated indoor pool and a walking track. There are also opportunities to play shuffleboard, cards and billiards.

www.1ffc.com

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VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

ARTS AND CULTURE Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts

University art majors; and the Empty Bowls event, which raises funds for the Second Harvest Food Bank. Art education is an important part of the Center’s commitment to the community. Year-round adult and children art classes offered through the Center include various forms of painting, drawing, pottery, weaving, cooking, wellness, and writing, to name a few.

What would life be without the arts? Fortunately, the Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts – one of South Georgia’s most treasured assets – provides a place where residents can appreciate and use artistic expression to enrich their lives.

The Center’s enrichment offerings don’t stop there, however.

By providing an array of cultural enrichment, art education and entertainment opportunities year-round, the Turner Center plays a significant regional role in the more than $62.5 billion in total economic impact of the arts across the state of Georgia.

ARTS AND CULT U RE

The Center offers visual arts, quality performances, concerts, art classes and other activities throughout the year that enrich the public’s appreciation for – and participation in – the arts. The 17,000-square-foot center provides six art galleries that change every six weeks and feature local, regional, national, and international artists. One of the galleries at the Center displays a permanent collection of East African Art; another houses a permanent collection of Fine European Porcelain.

For more than 30 years, artists of all levels and genres from across the region look forward to participating in the Spring Into Art Exhibition. Interest in the show grows every year. In fact, nearly 400 artistic pieces were submitted by approximately 250 artists in 2018. Other events include the annual Valdosta People’s Choice Photo Contest in partnership with the City of Valdosta; Youth Art Month, which celebrates the art of hundreds of local youth; the DrawProject, a fundraising event that provides scholarships for Valdosta State

Through the Presenter Series, the Center offers three annual Broadway performances, which provide exceptional entertainment at a fraction of big city ticket prices. The Center also hosts musical concerts throughout the year to give residents an appreciation for classical music, as well as others genres of music. Furthermore, the Career Pathways program provides individuals with opportunities to learn skills such as photography, editing, videography and web design in the Guardian Bank Studio that could ultimately lead to a noble career and a sustainable living. Likewise, the Hal & Jill Project is teaching area youth how to play the guitar for personal interests or future career opportunities.

Little Actor’s Theatre of Valdosta, Inc. is a nonprofit “all children’s theatre” where

Children are Stars!!!!

www.valdostachamber.com

1108 S. Patterson St. | Valdosta, GA 31601

www.littleactorstheatrevaldosta.com

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VALDOSTA SYMPHONY

Stop at the Center for any event, and one of the top draws is the gift shop. It’s filled with unique, affordable works by area artists, including original paintings and drawings; framed photography and unframed prints; children’s gifts; stained glass; pottery; wood carvings; and books by regional

authors. Gift certificates are also available, which can be used toward any Center product. Every day, the arts are inspiring and enriching lives in South Georgia. The Turner Center for the Arts is taking a leading role in that effort. w

The American Prize-winning Valdosta Symphony Orchestra invites you to experience the thrill of live music-making at its ﬁnest. The orchestra regularly performs with world-class soloists such as Robert McDufﬁe, Simone Dinnerstein and Christine Brewer, and has created countless unforgettable musical experiences while making a major cultural, educational and economic impact on the South Georgia region. As the professional orchestra-in-residence at Valdosta State University, the Valdosta Symphony Orchestra is proud to be part of what makes Valdosta great. Experience the power of live music with your Valdosta Symphony Orchestra!

ART S AND CULTURE www.valdostachamber.com

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SHO PPING AND DINING IN VALDO S T A

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

www.valdostachamber.com

SHOPPING AND DINING IN VALDOSTA Downtown Valdosta has it all. Whether it’s date night at The Dosta Theatre, an afternoon spent browsing the unique boutiques and galleries or a family lunch overlooking the historic streets of downtown, the experience is sure to be memorable. When hunger calls, you can experience downtown’s thriving culinary scene. Valdosta’s restaurants have been showcased in Georgia Trend Magazine’s Silver Spoon awards, highlighting the 10 best restaurants across the state as well as in Explore Georgia’s 100 Plates Locals Love. Within this 26-block stretch, you will experience downtown’s combination of big-city amenities, shopping for handmade jewelry at designer boutiques and admiring the historic buildings that are the fabric of the community.

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Just some of the stores you could visit include: • Cottonwood Market & Boutique, 123 N. Ashley St., featuring home furnishings that are re-purposed and refurbished, and vintage pieces, plus boutique clothing and gifts. • Red Door Records and Cinema, 133 N. Patterson, which doubles as a record store during the week and a cinema on Friday and Saturday nights. • The Urban Garden, 102 N. Ashley St., an open air plant market. • Funk Living, 111 W. Central, which offers a variety of items, including gourmet food. • Book and Table, 120 N. Patterson, a bookstore that also offers food. • The Flower Gallery, 127 N. Ashley St., which offers the best selection of flowers in town.

• Laws Furniture, 129 W. Central Ave., which has a large selection of home furnishings and accents. Also, here is a look at some of the restaurants and cafes in the downtown area: Birdies Market & Catering 206 N Patterson St. www.birdiesmarketandcatering.com Birdies combines a coffee shop with a firstfloor market and a catering space. On the first floor, Birdies features quality cheeses, wines, home décor, jewelry, beauty products and a refillable olive oil station that includes locally made olive oil. Birdies also offers a full breakfast and lunch menu, as well as coffees from the Grassroots Coffee Co. of Thomasville, Georgia, and Mighty Life Teas. On the second floor, there is a catering space known as the Magnolia Room, which is used for dinners, presentations and receptions.

• Ellie’s Boutique, 135 N. Patterson, a women’s clothing and accessories store.

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Covington’s Dining & Catering 310 N. Patterson St. www.covingtonscatering.com This locally owned and operated restaurant has a full-service catering and event planning business. Open Monday through Saturday, it is known for fresh homemade cinnamon rolls in the morning and a wide selection of casseroles and desserts. The diverse menu is bound to satisfy just about any diner. 306 North Restaurant 306 N. Patterson St. www.306north.com A blend of “Southern sophistication in a casual upscale environment,” 306 North features locally sourced produce, cheese and meat. The lunch menu features seasonal favorites such as sashimi-grade tuna, steaks, duck, lamb and grouper. You can also enjoy a drink at the bar on the brick patio.

Jessie’s Restaurant 205 N. Ashley St. www.jessiesvaldosta.com Specializing in breakfast and lunch, this restaurant also is known for its catering.

S H O PPING AND DINING IN VALD OS TA

Steel Magnolias 132 N. Patterson St. www.steelmagnoliasvaldosta.com The restaurant describes itself as “urban Southern, taking the roots of classic Southern cuisine and showing a new way of looking at them.” It prides itself on food from local farmers to support its “eat local, be local” philosophy.

• Round-the-clock breakfast • Lunch & Dinner • Walk-ins welcome • Good for groups • Good for kids • Take out 1328 St Augustine Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 Open 24 Hours, 7 Days a Week (229) 253-9388 www.rremcrestaurants.com

Bleu Cafe 125 N. Patterson St. A popular lunch and dinner spot, this establishment specializes in tacos, pizzas, nachos and sandwiches. Nette’s Eatery 122 McKey St. Offering classic small-town Southern food, Nette’s opened in early 2018 and has quickly become a local favorite. Most, if not all, menu items are cooked to order. w

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www.valdostachamber.com

8/16/2018 9:43:59 AM

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

HAHIRA

www.valdostachamber.com

Hahira â&#x20AC;&#x201C; New Downtown Main Street Program If you are looking for a hidden jewel, then Hahira is your kind of place. Incorporated in 1891, this quaint community has found a way to maintain its small-town feel while growing with the times. Today, there are more than 80 businesses and Southern charm can be found in every turn. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a welcoming face at the post office or local food mart, friendly conversation while you shop or dine or a wave from a passer-by when you walk down the street, you feel at home almost instantaneously.

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There is a rich history in the land, its people, and tradition and recent investments aim to capture that while building for the future. As part of a downtown planning process that has taken place over a few years, the city has invested more than $1 million into the downtown area. As a result, the city has created a Downtown Development Authority, purchased 4 acres to serve as a central square, developed a master plan for that square and constructed a premier 7,500-square-foot event venue, known as the Hahira Depot. A replica of the original 1890s train depot that was a community hub for over 100 years, the depot was opened in late 2017. This project demonstrates the commitment of city leadership and provides a centrally located gathering place for community events, such as the Independence Day Celebration, Honeybee Festival and Christmas Parade. In addition, a full-time Main Street director, Emily Davenport, was hired to work with Hahira business owners, the Downtown Development Authority and city council to enhance economic development opportunities in downtown Hahira.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are tremendously pleased to have Emily join our team,â&#x20AC;? Hahira Mayor Bruce Cain said at the time of the hire. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Her talents will only enhance the quality service that citizens of Hahira and the surrounding area have come to know and love in our city.â&#x20AC;? w

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29 www.valdostachamber.com

Her primary efforts will include coordinating special events and implementing new ideas and resources to help build interest in downtown businesses, while also working toward obtaining a Main Street Program designation through the Georgia Department of Community Affairs.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is a beauty in this community that draws you in,â&#x20AC;? Davenport said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For me, it is a mixture of the people, community pride, the preservation through revitalization that is occurring and the vision of what is yet to come.â&#x20AC;?

8/16/2018 9:44:01 AM

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

LEADERSHIP

LEADE RS HIP

The long-term success of a community and region is often determined by its leaders, who will chart the course for the future and work together to make it a reality. In the Valdosta-Lowndes County area, there are many such leaders who are collaborating on efforts to ensure the region is well prepared for years to come. Here is a look at a few of them:

Dr. Richard Carvajal www.valdostachamber.com

PRESIDENT OF VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY Dr. Carvajal has been president of Valdosta State University – which offers associate, bachelor’s, graduate and doctoral degrees – since Jan. 1, 2017. He previously served as interim president of Darton State College in 2015 and as president of Bainbridge State College in Bainbridge from 2011 to 2015. He said he is “honored to be in a position where I get to help impact this region we

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all love. I consider myself so fortunate to be at Valdosta State University and in South Georgia, and I try to make every day matter as I work with others to hopefully leave our community a little better than we found it.” The school’s main role is to educate students and prepare them to be leaders throughout South Georgia and beyond, he said. “Earlier this year, we adopted a new strategic plan that aims to help us fulfil that mission at an even higher level. As South Georgia’s only comprehensive university, and the only institution located in South Georgia that is missioned to serve all of our 41 counties, we must judge our success based upon our ability to influence the success of the region and its citizens,” Carvajal said. “In the years to come, therefore, we are committed to producing more graduates and ensuring that those graduates are better prepared for life after graduation.” To that end, Carvajal is looking forward to the launch of the new Center for South Georgia Regional Impact.

“Under the leadership of a new executive director, we plan to marry the applied research talents of our outstanding faculty and staff with communities throughout South Georgia that are interested in tackling our region’s ongoing and widespread challenges in the areas of K-12 education, health care, business and industry, the arts and governmental effectiveness,” he said. Carvajal is personally involved in a regional effort to influence community growth in years to come. “Last year, leaders from the City of Valdosta, Lowndes County, the Development Authority, the Chamber of Commerce, South Georgia Medical Center and Valdosta State University joined Georgia Power to launch an initiative that will ultimately lead to a new vision for Valdosta and Lowndes County,” he said. The effort is called OneValdostaLowndes, which has sought input from throughout the community – conducting focus groups and collecting surveys from hundreds of community members. ’

8/16/2018 9:44:04 AM

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Dr. Tina Anderson PRESIDENT OF WIREGRASS GEORGIA TECHNICAL COLLEGE Dr. Tina K. Anderson started as president of Wiregrass Georgia Tech in July 2013. She previously was president at Moultrie Technical College. Also, in 2006, Anderson served for six months as interim president of Valdosta Technical College. Wiregrass, which serves 11 counties, is committed to preparing students for successful careers in an ever-changing workforce.

“This input is helping us to identify our community’s strengths, while also pointing out areas in which we can get better,” he said. “The end result will be the formation of a plan that will guide our collective efforts for several years to come, as we work together to make Valdosta and Lowndes County an even better place to call home.”

LEADE RS HIP

His advice for aspiring leaders is to never forget that they are building on the work of others. “Here at VSU, for instance, outstanding faculty, staff, students, alumni and other supporters have built a tremendous university,” he said. “Our job is simply to try to add on to that foundation. After all, we are so fortunate to get to be at a place where our mission every day is to go change someone’s life for the better. What better opportunity could anyone ever ask for?”

Anderson’s main priority is to ensure the school follows its mission – provide workforce development. She wants to know what businesses and industries need to be successful in terms of their workforce and how the school can provide opportunities for students to become employees at those companies. The school has a 99-percent job placement rate, which is a testament to its ability to apply lessons it learns about the needs of the business community. “We are really excited when we see how successful students are once they graduate,” she said. Anderson also reaches out to the business community to help meet the school’s heavy equipment needs, which are essential to providing hands-on education in fields such as welding, engineering and truck driving. She is grateful for the collaborative educational system in the Valdosta area, which also includes K-12 and Valdosta State. “This community does the best job of making all of those sectors feel like they

www.valdostachamber.com

are the perfect link in a road of success for our community,” Anderson said. “All those entities have different missions. But the community makes you feel like all those missions are important, valued and equal. That’s a great community to be a part of. We have a great relationship with the K-12 and university system, too. We talk a lot about what is good for our community and how we provide services.” Technical schools have received more notice across the country because they allow students to quickly learn skills that can make them ready for the workforce, while graduating with little or no debt. “We will continue to see a rise in the respect of those degrees,” she said. Anderson considers herself a servant leader for the community.

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“You want to make sure you are always doing what’s best for the community, listen to them and stay aware and current,” she said. “I don’t take anything for granted. It’s a blessing to get to work with our students and produce a workforce.”

Committed to You - Our Customer, Our Community

We are your local bank, your friends & your neighbors. Stop by and see us at one of our three local branches! PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY CONFERENCE CENTER AND TOURISM AUTHORITY

He added, “When we’re clicking on all cylinders, we send waves of prosperity and good morale across our service area. We’re fortunate in that we have a solid group of department heads and hard-working staff that recognize the significance of what we do and support our mission vigorously without much prodding.” His ultimate goal is to significantly increase the attention that the region receives, which would then increase local revenues and help taxpayers. w

LEAD ER SHIP

Chris Hamilton started in his position in early 2018 and sees the organization as “an economic driver that impacts many businesses and the community’s quality of life.”

3462 North Valdosta Road 1215 Baytree Road 110 West Main Street (Hahira)

www.cbcbank.com 229.242.7600 CBCBank

CommercialBankingco

www.valdostachamber.com

Chris Hamilton

Member FDIC

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GIV ING BACK TO T H E CO MMU NIT Y

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

www.valdostachamber.com

GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY Nonprofit organizations are a vital part of any community, helping to care for those who are facing temporary or lifelong challenges. In Valdosta-Lowndes County, there are many organizations making the region a better place. Here is a look at a few of them:

Scott Craven Mentoring Program Bonnie Ard oversees the program for Sallas Mahone Elementary School. What role does your program play in making the community a better place to live? We support our military families that are dealing with a parent who is gone due to a deployment or a lengthy temporary duty. We

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have a breakfast club where students come together and spend time playing games and doing fun crafts while knowing everyone in the club has a parent gone, and they are not alone. They support each other and feel part of a group in a positive way â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not in a lonely, negative way. The parent has an easier time in the home with their child due to this support and the behavior and grades improve at the school. How does the community support your program? Moody Air Force Base sends mentors to do crafts and play games with the students in the club. This is very important to the students because the mentors come in uniform and the students can identify with them. This is how their parent dresses and it is very comforting to them.

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affordable access to the foods and services necessary to carry out their charitable work. The group operated in a borrowed basement, distributing loads of food donated from another community food bank. Over the last 31 years, the organization has grown and transformed – changing names and leadership, becoming independent and nationally accredited, and expanding geographically and operationally.

Second Harvest of South Georgia

Today, Second Harvest of South Georgia is the leading hunger-relief organization in the region and the second-largest food bank in the state. We serve a 12,675 square mile region made up of 30 counties. In addition to our Valdosta headquarters, we have branches in Albany, Douglas and Thomasville. From these four locations, we serve more than 400 partner agencies through a variety of programs including the Food Bank, Kids Cafe, Mobile Food Pantry and Teachers’ Harvest, among others.

Frank Richards, CEO of Second Harvest of South Georgia

Last year, we distributed the equivalent of 16.5 million meals (which is more than 20 million pounds of food). We provided nearly 700,000 meals and snacks to children in need through our Kids Café program, and we served thousands of teachers through our Teachers’ Harvest program. We can see the positive impact of our work on both a small and large scale every single day. How does the community support your organization? Our community is very generous. We have many committed individuals and businesses that graciously support our work financially year after year. The business community and individuals in this community give not only their money but their time. We have a thriving volunteer program; many companies, clubs, and families pitch in by volunteering with us on a weekly, monthly or annual basis. How has your organization evolved over the years and what are your hopes for the future? In 1982, a small group of volunteers representing several Valdosta churches formed the Unity Food Bank with the goal of giving community nonprofits easy,

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The James Eunice Charity Fund John and Tammy Eunice, parents of James, and managers of the charity fund What role does your organization play in making the community a better place to live? The James Eunice Charity Fund is a nonprofit dedicated to the life and legacy of our youngest son, James, who we lost on Jan. 15, 2011. We share a message of hope and conduct several fundraisers each year. These funds flow back to the community in a variety of ways. There is no overhead, so everything generated goes back to the foundation or to the community. In 2018 the foundation has presented close to $10,000 to charities, including Second Harvest, Boys and Girls Club, YMCA, Living Bridges, and Hungry at Home. The foundation also presents $500 scholarships to graduating seniors across the area. To date the foundation has presented over 370 scholarships to graduating seniors from over 25 schools across South Georgia and North Florida. We are blessed to be able to reach outside of the city limits of Valdosta/ Lowndes County to give, and that paints this community in the positive light it deserves. Just as Valdosta is a “City Without Limits,” so too is the James Eunice Charity Fund. We see James’ story and the donations influencing the lives of others and encouraging people to make a difference in their community.

How has your organization evolved over the years and what are your hopes for the future? The foundation began as an effort to support the local Lowndes County Sheriff ’s Department Dive Team, who selflessly and heroically devoted numerous hours during the 17-day search for James. That initial effort demonstrated the amazing community that is Valdosta and Lowndes County, as $149,000 was raised in 90 days to outfit the local dive team, and was presented on James’ 18th birthday. From that initial push, the community embraced James’ story and continued to support it and enable the foundation to present over $450,000 to the community. Our hope is to be able to continue to share James’ story, spreading a message of legacy and hope to all who hear it, and continue to give back to a community and honor his life and legacy. What is it that makes the Valdosta/ Lowndes County area’s nonprofit community exceptional? The way the community embraces and supports these efforts. Community businesses and residents recognize and support these efforts designed to make the area a better place to live and improve the lives of those less fortunate. They live out the words from the book of Luke that from whom much is given, much is required. But it goes even beyond that, as during the initial Diving for James campaign, we received donations ranging from 25 cents to $3,000. Everyone wanted to help. That defines the community spirit that is Valdosta and all of Lowndes County. w

G IVING B ACK T O T H E COMMUNIT Y

What role does your organization play in making the community a better place to live? Second Harvest of South Georgia helps improve the community both in the short and long term. By providing food to those in need today, we are helping those people on the road to self-sufficiency in the future. We work with more than 450 partner agencies across South Georgia. By working in partnership with these groups, more people are helped and more people get to engage in the helping. It’s beneficial on many levels.

How does the community support your organization? Each supports the foundation in a variety of ways. All of Lowndes County plays a huge role in this story, and through their support, we are able to continue and give back. The foundation receives financial support from numerous local businesses, many of whom also support the various fundraisers throughout the year. Individual residents also donate and volunteer with our events and help spread James’ story. Numerous students from Valdosta State volunteer each year to help the foundation.

35 www.valdostachamber.com

How has your program evolved over the years and what are your hopes for the future? We started as a lunch buddy program, but over the years we realized bringing them all together to support each other was the most successful way for the students during this difficult time. We would like to expand into all schools, so every student associated with our military is supported.

8/16/2018 9:44:13 AM

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

HEALTH CARE HEALT H CAR E

South Georgia Medical Center South Georgia Medical Center (SGMC) is a leading employer and provider of comprehensive health care services in South Georgia and North Florida. The medical center was founded in 1955 as a 100-bed community hospital.

Today, the South Georgia Health System operates four campuses that serve a diverse population with a wide variety of inpatient and outpatient needs: • South Georgia Medical Center (285 beds), Valdosta. • Georgia Medical Center Outpatient Plaza, Valdosta. • SGMC Lanier Campus (25 beds), Lakeland.

www.valdostachamber.com

• SGMC Lakeland Villa (62 beds), Lakeland. • SGMC Berrien Campus (63 beds), Nashville, Georgia. SGMC is committed to continuous growth and improving services necessary to meet the health care needs of the region. In 2011, an outpatient imaging center opened on the first floor of the SGMC Professional Building. A five-story parking deck was added in ’

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Local Office: Dr. Beverly Edwards “Eagle” Rogers, Regional Manager Destiny Financial Services - 806 E. Jane Street Valdosta, GA 31601 877.300.8269

8/16/2018 9:44:15 AM

CHANGE IS IN THE AIR AT SGMC... Change is in the air at SGMC campuses and affiliates in Lowndes, Berrien and Lanier counties as we provide access to superior quality care and a team of health care professionals who take your well being seriously.

Visit sgmc.org to learn more.

South Georgia Medical Center complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. ATENCIÓN: si habla8/16/2018 español, 9:44:16 AM GAVALCW18 design.indd 37 tiene a su disposici�n servicios gratuitos de asistencia ling��stica. �lame al �� TT�: ��. C�� : N�u b�n n�i Ti�ng �i�t, c� c�c d�ch v� h� tr� ng�n ng� mi�n ph� d�nh cho b�n. G�i s� �� TT�: ��.

HEALT H CAR E

Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health Care....Our Specialty for over 50 years.

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For over 50 years women in South Georgia have turned to Southern OB/GYN for comprehensive health care services. From obstetrics to the latest technology in outpatient surgery, our physicians and staff provide professional services with a personal touch. Call or visit our website to learn more.

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220 Northside Drive | Valdosta, GA 31602 229-241-2800 | Southernobgyn.net

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When a cure is no longer possible, you deserve compassionate care that concentrates on How you live!

229.433.7000 HospiceofSouthGeorgia.org

How we can help:

• Care provided in the home and at our hospice care center– Langdale Hospice House • Comfort care that treats symptoms of life-limiting illness (Palliative Care) • Coordinate medications and medical equipment • Provide emotional & spiritual support • Help with final arrangements and government aid • Grief Support • Hospice is covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most insurance companies

Langdale Hospice House: • Clinical symptom management - keeps patient out of ER • Ability to treat any disease process with management and assessment by skilled nursing staff–24/7, hospice-centered care • Specialized wound care • Ability to administer ALL medications • All private rooms & bathrooms • Beautiful & peace environment • Respite for caregivers • Residential Stay GA Permit# 092-031H Hospice of South Georgia complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-229-433-7000. CHÚ Ý: Neu ban nói Tieng Viet, có các dich vu ho tro ngôn ngu mien phí dành cho ban. Goi so 1-229-433-7000.

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It m We strive to provide the most affordable, quality chiropractic care in the Valdosta area. We provide gentle and effective techniques for all stages of life, to better serve you and your family.

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No Insurance Needed. Why pay an Arm and a Leg to have your Spine taken care of?

HEALT H CAR E

Dr. Trent Leisey 2947 N. Ashley St. Suite A Valdosta, Ga 31602

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229.474.4100 facebook.com/ElevateValdosta elevatevaldosta@gmail.com www.elevatevaldosta.com

Personal, Professional Health Care Services...at Home! Public Health Home Health was organized in 1966 to meet the needs of people throughout our ten-county service area. We are a Medicare-and Medicaid-certified, not-for-profit home healthcare agency. Public Health Personal Support Services was formed in 1994 to provide community and respite care services. It is also a non-profit organization. Valdosta: 229-253-1242 | Fitzgerald: 229-423-5425 | Tifton: 229-382-3916

W an 2012 and a new 130,000-square-foot, fivestory tower housing the Dasher Memorial Heart Center and 96 private patient rooms opened in 2013. In 2017, SGMC opened a new $11 million dollar senior living facility in Lakeland. SGMC is recognized for awardwinning stroke, cancer, cardiothoracic and endovascular expertise. The medical center offers the region’s only hybrid operating room that provides some of the best imaging technology within the confines of a worldclass operating suite. SGMC recently launched a $50 million initiative to make Epic electronic health records a superior resource for our patients, physicians and staff. In terms of manpower and community development, SGMC is the region’s largest economic generator, employing ’

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PruittHealth is Committed to Caring in Our Community • Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Care • Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy • Orthopedic Rehabilitation • Cardiac Rehabilitation • Short and Long-Term Rehabilitation • I.V. Therapy

• Pain Management • Wound Care Management • Oxygen Therapy • Hospice/End of Life Care • Pharmacy Services 410 Northside Drive Valdosta, GA 31602 229.242.7368 PruittHealth.com

HEALT H CAR E

The PruittHealth Organization complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

www.valdostachamber.com

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approximately 2,700 individuals across four campuses. The affiliated medical staff exceeds 400 physicians and limited-licensed professionals. As a nonprofit hospital system, SGMC’s goal is to provide outstanding health care to all. Due to careful business management and planning, the health system serves the community without local property tax support. SGMC is a Hospital Authoritygoverned system, and earnings are ’

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Ai tra ba

Air Methods’ ﬁrst concern is always patient care and transport safety. We provide air medical transport services based on emergency medical needs as determined by medical professionals. OmniAdvantage is subject to the terms and conditions of the OmniAdvantage Membership Agreement.

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THE SECURITY OF KNOWING YOU’RE COVERED if you or a loved one ever need to be transported via air ambulance

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Cleanliness is our Business

Janitorial Services Floor Finish Application and Maintenance We take a professional approach to meet all your cleaning needs. Our services combine current technology with traditional methods. We are licensed and locally owned with over 14 years of experience. Commercial Cleaning Industries 1106 South Patterson St. Valdosta, Ga. 31602 229-CLEANER

reinvested back into its services and facilities. This translates into many millions in benefits provided to the community annually.

Michelle Alden Counseling Services

For the latest in hospital news and developments, visit www.sgmc.org or call community relations at (229) 433-4421. w

HEALT H CAR E

"Empowering Families with Love One Step at a Time"

SGMC is one of only a few nonprofit hospitals in Georgia that is able to sustain itself and grow based on its revenue collections, receiving no local tax support to operate its facilities. SGMC is focused on performance improvement efforts and system-wide quality.

www.valdostachamber.com

Michelle Alden LPC, NCC, CAMS Mental Health Clinician cell: 850-510-8627 3316 Bemiss Road michellealden22@gmail.com Se Habla Espanol

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Protecting Your Past, Present and Future OPEN: MON-FRI 8:30am–5:30pm SATURDAY 9–12 NOON

Locally Owned & Operated FREE DELIVERY CITY WIDE COMPLIANCE PACKAGING (229) 244-5353 www.hoganspharmacy.net

Plan for your family’s future with Paul Hamilton, South Georgia’s trusted estate planning advisor for legal advice and guidance including wills, trusts, elder law, estate litigation and long-term care planning.

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L O W N D E S

C O U N T Y

For more information on the many other great communities and organizations we showcase, visit our website at www.townsquarepublications.com. If you can’t locate your community, we’d love to hear from you!

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VALDOSTA G

HE ALTH CARE

Town Square Publications is grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce to produce this high-quality print and digitally integrated product. We hope you enjoy the publication and ask you to consider supporting the advertisers who made this possible.

every patient like family!

Family Dentistry, P.C.

3362 Greystone Way • Valdosta, GA 31605

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8/16/2018 9:44:36 AM

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

EDUCATION Valdosta High School As with any high school, students at the new Valdosta High School will be able to leave with a diploma after four successful years.

EDUCAT IO N

Some, however, will also earn an associate degree to help them get a head start on a career right after graduation.

www.valdostachamber.com

The ability to offer more than 200 courses in the 428,000-square-foot facility – including some that would have been available only at a local community college – is just one of the many advantages of the new school, which opened in fall 2018. In addition to the usual core courses, new classes include culinary arts, cosmetology and videography, which is quite a change from when the district was first chartered in 1893. The three-story building includes 77 classrooms, 35 specialty classrooms and 14 science labs.

Credit Jay Blanton, Georgia Photography Fanatic

“In this new building we will be able to broaden our career, technical and agricultural education course scope for our students, allowing many to graduate high school with their diploma and career certification,” said Valdosta City Schools Superintendent Dr. William “Todd” Cason. “The opportunities for our students are endless!”

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8/16/2018 9:44:42 AM

Hold Your Event at

Park Place

Other amenities on the 184-acre campus include: • Gymnasium with three courts, 2,500 seats.

Park Place

by McLane

Gatherings, Meetings & Events

108 W. Park Avenue, Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 242-5544 WWW.MCLANECARES.COM

• Ten lighted tennis courts. • A 400-meter rubber surfaced track with field events. • Two football practice fields. • Soccer game field with restroom and concession facilities.

Valdosta High School has more than two dozen clubs, including Drama, Debate, Robotics, Key Club, FBLA, DECA, Model UN, Science, Journalism and Beta Club. In fact, National Beta Club named Valdosta High as a 2017-2018 National School of Distinction because of the chapter’s work toward academic achievement, exemplary character, demonstrated leadership and service to others. The school’s music program is outstanding, with a decades-long history of success at many national field and parade championships. Valdosta also has excelled in sports, especially in football where the Wildcats have been named six-time national champions, 24time state champions and 42-time region champions. ’

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Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Troy University is proud to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist and doctoral degrees. We offer more than 225 undergraduate and graduate options designed with you in mind.

E DUCATION

“Our enrollment continues to increase and is higher right now than it has been in over a decade. We are pleased with the continued progress but look forward to focusing on increased rigor in all aspects of our educational opportunities.”

THE TROJAN WARRIOR SPIRIT

In addition, TROY is recognized as one of the premier public universities working with our nation’s military community. For more than 65 years, the University has been in partnership with the Department of Defense. TROY provides a comprehensive approach to serving members of our nation’s active duty military, our veterans and their families.

47 www.valdostachamber.com

“Valdosta and Lowndes County are fortunate to have a variety of educational choices,” Cason said. “The new Valdosta High School will continue to offer numerous advanced placement courses and is one of only 29 International Baccalaureate schools in the state of Georgia.

Visit troy.edu/militaryspirit or call 866-780-7823 to ﬁnd a location close to you or to request information.

8/16/2018 9:44:44 AM

EDUCAT IO N www.valdostachamber.com

georgiachristian.org GAVALCW18 design.indd 48

8/16/2018 9:44:46 AM

VALDOSTA CITY SCHOOLS

www.gocats.org Elementary schools: J.L. Lomax, Pinevale, Sallas Mahone, S.L. Mason and W.G. Nunn

“Where Children’s Success Matters” Pamela R. Carter Brent A. Carter

Middle schools: Valdosta Middle and J.L. Newbern

Owners

High school: Valdosta High

229-245-9881/Center 770-234-5058/Fax 678-233-8183- Cell 678-233-8184- Cell thecarters4@bellsouth.net 252 N. St. Augustine Rd. Valdosta, GA 31601

LOWNDES COUNTY SCHOOLS

www.lowndes.k12.ga.us Elementary schools: Clyattville Elementary School, Dewar Elementary School, Hahira Elementary School, Lake Park Elementary School, Moulton Branch Elementary School, Pine Grove Elementary School and Westside Elementary School

High school: Lowndes High School

Community support continues to drive the success of Valdosta High. As students enjoy the new building during the 2018-19 school year and beyond, they’ll realize how much it means to have a community that supports its school district. “This new school would not be possible without the ongoing support of our community. Together, We built this school.” Cason said. “We are eternally grateful to everyone who continues to put their trust in Valdosta City Schools.” w

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Areas of Practice: • Commercial Litigation • Commercial Real Estate • Business & Corporate Law • Plaintiffs Personal Injury & Wrongful Death

A History of Excellence Langdale Vallotton, LLP provides a full range of legal services to clients throughout South Georgia. For more than 45 years, our attorneys have worked to establish a reputation for providing clients with honest and effective legal representation. We know that our reputation is earned every day, with each matter we handle.

229-244-5400

E DUCATION

“We continue to focus on improving our graduation rates and offering the best educational opportunities to students in our community,” Cason said. “We are also proud of our many academic and athletic clubs and teams at Valdosta High School. Our Valdosta Wildcats are recognized all over the country and continue to be the winningest high school football program in the United States.”

Serving the Southeast for over 45 years.

49 www.valdostachamber.com

Middle schools: Hahira Middle School, Lowndes Middle School and Pine Grove Middle School.

www.langdalevallotton.com 1007 North Patterson Street | PO Box 1547 | Valdosta, GA | 31603

8/16/2018 9:44:49 AM

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

GOVERNMENT Award-Winning Police and Fire Departments To be considered an outstanding police or fire department it takes excellent leadership, a strong team, extensive and consistent training, highly technical equipment and a positive relationship with the community. Luckily, Valdosta residents get all of the above with their police and fire departments. Both are ranked among the best in the state and the police department has received notice on a national level. Their leaders – Police Chief Brian Childress and Fire Chief Freddie Broome – discuss what makes their departments excel.

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POLICE DEPARTMENT

Investigations National Academy and FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminars and Georgia Law Enforcement Command College.”

Only five percent of law enforcement agencies across the country achieve law enforcement accreditation, he said. In fact, Valdosta’s crime laboratory became the first locally operated crime lab in the state to achieve laboratory accreditation.

The department also initiated the South Georgia Coalition for Employment to assist offenders who are on parole, probation or leaving prison/jail to find a job.

“It means we comply with nearly 1,000 professional standards in the area of law enforcement and crime laboratory operations,” Childress said.

It’s no wonder, then that crime is lower in 2018 vs. 2000 although the city population has grown by more than 30 percent. Also, the department has maintained a 96 percent approval rating with citizens on its annual surveys, the chief said.

The department is also inspected yearly by outside entities “to ensure we don’t violate our citizens’ rights, we follow state and federal legal standards, we have procedures

Training is a vital part of the department’s success.

www.valdostachamber.com

One of the first things you notice on the department’s website is a seal that shows it has earned Triple Crown Accreditation, which indicates it has achieved three voluntary accreditation program awards – two for law enforcement and one for crime laboratory.

in place to reduce liability to our officers and citizens we serve, we actively engage our community in proactive ways, and we work to keep our crime rates low in our city,” he said.

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“The state mandate for annual officer training is a minimum of 23 hours per year. We average double and in many cases triple that amount,” Childress said. “We also have a career progression program where we require internal and external training for all personnel (sworn and civilian) to prepare them for the future. This includes but not limited to: Investigations training, supervision training, traffic accident investigation/reconstruction, crime scene investigations, evidence analysis classes, attendance at the Federal Bureau of

“The goal is to assist former offenders in finding employment and reducing recidivism rates in Valdosta,” Childress said. “It started because crime prevention must focus on youth, adults and those coming out of prison. National recidivism data shows if a person coming out of prison gets a job, there is a 6570 percent chance they will not recommit.” To make the program successful, the department has teamed with the Georgia Department of Labor, Georgia Department of Community Services (formerly State Probation/Parole), Sentinel Probation, the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce, the Goodwill Corporation, other local businesses and local churches.

FIRE DEPARTMENT The Valdosta Fire Department strives for excellence in everything it does, including training for some of the toughest situations imaginable.

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“Our firefighters are required to participate in over 240 hours of training each year. We work in extraneous conditions; therefore, we train in similar situations,” Broome said. “It is not out the norm for us to train in 100-degree temperatures to ensure that we can operate effectively and efficiently in the event of an emergency. There is a belief in our profession that, ‘We train as we play.’” Valdosta firefighters graduate recruit school with their EMT, Firefighter II and Haz-Mat Awareness certifications. “We are one of the few departments in South Georgia that requires our new firefighters to have EMT and Firefighter II certifications before graduating,” the chief said. Another distinction for the department is its standing as one of only 18 in the state that has an ISO Class 1 rating. “Less than five percent of fire departments nationwide have an ISO Class 1 rating. The lower the number, the better the score,” Broome said. “Citizens usually see a 10 to 15 percent reduction in their fire insurance premiums for each point the ISO rating drops.” The department relies on technology to more effectively fight fires. One example is the Mobile Data Computers inside all of the fire trucks.

The computer is essential in providing critical information to firefighters, such as detailed hydrant information, building floors plans and hazardous conditions. The department also uses thermal imagining cameras, which assist firefighters when searching for occupants in building fires.

we have firefighters. Our female firefighters are respected within the organization and are perfect examples of “true perseverance.” Not only are they part of an elite profession that is both physically and mentally demanding, but they also serve as influential members of the community.” w

“These cameras allow firefighters to search for occupants and locate hidden fires aggressively,” he said. Female firefighters also play a key role in the department.

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“The Valdosta Fire Department works to have an inclusive department. It is essential for our organization to reflect our community demographics,” Broome said. “Our female firefighters show the community that at the end of the day, when duty calls, we don’t have men firefighters or women firefighters,

www.valdostachamber.com

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8/16/2018 9:44:52 AM

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

MOOD Y AIR FO RCE B AS E

MOODY AIR FORCE BASE

www.valdostachamber.com

Moody Air Force Base has been a key facet of the Valdosta/Lowndes County region and economy for decades. Since its inception in 1941, the base has contributed to the area’s economic development and has become a valuable asset to creating jobs, and improving the economy and labor force within its surrounding communities. Located 30 miles north of the Florida border and 10 miles northeast of the City of Valdosta on Georgia Highway 125, the base opened in 1941 when the U.S. War Department was granted exclusive use of the land by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Valdosta Airfield opened in September 1941 and was renamed Moody Army Airfield that December in honor of Major George Putnam Moody, an early Air Force pioneer who died in the line of duty on May 5, 1941, while serving with the Beech Aircraft Company in Wichita, Kansas. Moody was working on the AT-10 transitional trainers, which were later sent to the air force base. Moody AFB is home to the 23d Wing, which organizes, trains and employs combat-ready A-10Cs, HC-130P/Js, HH-60Gs, Guardian Angel and support personnel. The mission of the 23d Wing is Attack, Rescue and Prevail to win today’s fight. In executing the mission, the 23d Wing will not lose sight of the vision,

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which is to perform as a cohesive team of highly skilled warriors with the ability to be out front and be the pace-setting wing for the Air Force. The Wing is composed of 5,500 airmen and civilians spread across four states. The 23d Wing is unique in that it has three operations groups; the 23d Fighter Group and 347th Rescue Group located at Moody and 563d Rescue Group located at both DavisMonthan Air Force Base, Arizona and Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada. Additionally, the Wing operates Avon Park Air Force Range in central Florida. Organizing many different capabilities across the United States presents challenges that the 23d Wing meets with success every day. Since 2008, Moody AFB has also been home to the 93d Air Ground Operations Wing, which is the Air Force’s first wing to provide highly-trained ground combat forces capable of integrating air and space power into the ground scheme of fire and maneuver. The AGOW is composed of three operational groups, 17 squadrons, 9 detachments and 10 operating locations at 20 bases across the United States. The wing conducts offensive and defensive ground combat operations worldwide to protect expeditionary aerospace forces with an airborne capability.

At a moment’s notice, they provide worldwide deployable, “first-in,” fully integrated, multi-disciplined capabilities and provide the joint force commander airborne, air-mobile, air-land and over-land insertion capability. The Airman of the 93 AGOW remain the joint experts on integration of air power and combat weather support to ground forces, serving as the enduring linkage between the Air Force and the Army. With more than $500 million in positive annual economic impact on the local community, Moody aids in national security as well as the strong financial security necessary for businesses to thrive. The base accounts for over 5,000 active duty personnel, with their dependents and civilian employees making up another 5,000. Since 2001, Moody Airmen have constantly deployed in support of numerous operations including Operations Iraqi Freedom, Odyssey Dawn, Enduring Freedom and Inherent Resolve. In recent times, two A-10 pilots were awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for their heroic efforts in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. Not only has the base supported contingency operations, but Moody also recently provided critical relief efforts during Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma credited with more than 1,424 people and 90 animal saves. w

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MOOD Y AIR FO RCE B AS E

Communities with a military presence generally value what their installation brings, both in economics and with the quality of the people who reside in the area.

But only a select few defense communities are rewarded for how well they take care of the men, women and families who are active duty military members. The greater Valdosta region is one of those areas, and was awarded – along with four other regions – the 2018 Great American Defense Community Award by the Association of Defense Communities.

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MAKING MEMORIES? LET US HELP!

The Great American Defense Communities program is designed to recognize the overall support that communities and regions in the U.S. provide to service members and military families, according to organizers. Communities are chosen through a competitive nomination process based on community building and integration, support and collaboration, educational and employment opportunities and family support. “It’s no surprise that Moody Air Force Base’s surrounding communities were named as a Great American Defense Community,” said Andrea Jenkins, 23d Wing Chief of Community Engagement at Moody AFB. “Moody could not succeed in its mission without the contributions and support of our local communities. We are extremely proud to be a part of a community whose members consistently support our military. We often say we have the best community support in the Air Force, and I think this pretty much proves it!” The impact of Moody Air Force Base also reaches beyond Valdosta-Lowndes County. Three additional communities are home to numerous military families, and reap the beneﬁts of being a defense community. Together with the ValdostaLowndes Chamber, the chambers of commerce in Adel-Cook County, Lakeland-Lanier County and NashvilleBerrien County were recognized in June 2018 at the annual conference of the Association of Defense Communities as one of America’s great defense communities. “Few regions could match the genuine regard South Georgia has for our Air Force Base,” said Valdosta Chamber President Myrna Ballard. “But it goes beyond the economic impact of the installation itself. The men, women and children of Moody add so much to the fabric of our community. Our motto is ‘Moody is US’. That really says it all.”

8/16/2018 9:44:59 AM

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

Valdosta has the air transportation convenience of many mid- to large-sized cities because of the connections provided by Valdosta Regional Airport.

Commercial air service is offered by Delta partners Delta Connection from Valdosta with daily flights connecting through Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Delta has three arrivals and three departures per day six days per week and two arrivals and two departures on Saturday. Once in

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• Flight Training • Aircraft Rental • Aircraft Fueling • Hanger Storage • Pilot Supplies • Ground Support

www.valdostachamber.com

The airport, which is on 760 acres south of Valdosta, has three runways for commercial and general aviation use. The main runway is 8,002 feet and is third-longest in the state, surpassed only by Atlanta and Savannah.

229-242-3175

LO CAT IO N AND T RANS P ORT AT ION

LOCATION AND TRANSPORTATION

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Atlanta, travelers can connect to hundreds of destinations worldwide. “We offer convenience,” said Jim Galloway, executive director/airport manager of Valdosta Regional Airport. “A while back, I looked at every flight that a passenger could connect to from Valdosta’s early morning flight. Passengers can sleep in their own bed, make the short drive to the airport, park for free, experience fast security screening and travel to 114 domestic and 16 international destinations and arrive before noon destination time.” In calendar year 2017 more than 86,000 airline passengers flew into or out of Valdosta.

“Over the past few years, we embarked on an enhancement program whereby we tripled the size of our airliner parking area and are just about finished constructing a passenger boarding bridge commonly known as a jetway, Galloway said. “It is expected to be in operation in August 2018. The previous arrangement served us well for the past 20 years and this expansion and enhancement readies us for the next 20 years.” There is more to the Valdosta Regional Airport than convenient airline service. Air Methods, an air ambulance service, has both helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft based at Valdosta. It has crews consisting of a pilot, trauma nurse and EMT, and is at the ready

24/7 to provide expeditious transportation to higher levels of care and other missions. “During the aftermath of one of the hurricanes of 2017 the fixed-wing aircraft picked up badly needed blood material in the panhandle of Florida and delivered it to Orlando,” Galloway said. There are 56 privately owned aircraft based at Valdosta. They represent a good mix of business and personal use aircraft. Major airframe and engine repairs can be performed at the Valdosta Regional Airport and flying lessons are available.

LOCAT IO N AN D T RANS PO RT AT IO N

Hass/E FrEE

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1-800-221-1212 or your travel agent

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8/16/2018 9:45:02 AM

INTERSTATE

RAIL/TRUCK

Almost exactly halfway between Atlanta and Orlando, Valdosta is a popular stop along I-75, with several exits to take visitors into the town. The Valdosta/Lowndes County region’s efficient transportation infrastructure makes it a transportation gateway for several industries including tourism, manufacturing and agriculture. The sheer size of the I-75 corridor coupled with Valdosta’s proximity to Interstate 10 in Florida has spurred Lowndes County economic developers to focus on manufacturing and distribution in the region.

Valdosta/Lowndes County is served by CSX and Norfolk Southern railroads. Major metro markets that can be reached by a truck in one day include Atlanta, Orlando, Tallahassee, Jacksonville, Tampa, Miami, Birmingham, Nashville, Jackson, Charlotte, Memphis, New Orleans and Lexington.

WATER The Valdosta/Lowndes County connection to port facilities and state-of-the-art telecommunications network gives industry and businesses the advantage they need to succeed. Nearby freight ports include Savannah, Jacksonville, Brunswick and Bainbridge. w

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LO CAT IO N AND T RANS P ORT AT ION

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RE SIDE NTIAL LIVING

VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

RESIDENTIAL LIVING

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If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for a place to put down roots with a young family or to retire after a lifetime of hard work, the Valdosta area has something for you.

S & S Woodworking We Specialize in building custom cabinets! 229-244-6362 | Valdosta, GA | www.sandswoodworking.com

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The median home value in Lowndes County is $140,000, which is below both the Georgia and national averages, allowing homeowners to get more for their money.

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Get Real Valdosta!

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229-333-4622 1817 Green Circle Valdosta, GA 31602

Residential • Commercial Farm & Acreage New Construction • Investment Properties Property Management **Military Rebate** “It is and will be our continual committed effort to provide client service that is paralleled in the real estate industry through: Engaged Leadership, Active training initiatives, Innovative marketing strategies, Industry leading technology and most importantly a culture of integrity and servanthood to one another, our clients, our community and our profession.”

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TYPES OF HOMES

RE SIDE NTIAL LIVING

The region offers housing options to suit any budget or lifestyle, from historic antebellumstyle estates and simple ranch-style homes to carefree golf course living. Retirement communities, modern lofts, condos and efficient student apartments round out the diverse assortment of accommodations available in the city and surrounding region.

# F T U i 7P U F E V U I P 4 G P J Bw (FPSH UBUF T 3F B M &

Valdosta/Lowndes County students, families and retirees enjoy a wealth of housing options such as high-end, gated rental properties and natural amenities such as an abundance of beautiful outdoor and recreational spaces. In fact, more than 60 percent of Valdosta residents live within walking distance of a park. Added to the year-round warm, Southern Georgia climate, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no wonder students, retirees and families have relocated to the Valdosta region.

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• Gated Community • Exercise Room • Intrusion Alarm System • Interior Laundry Room • One Car Garage with Interior Access • Extensive Sound Proofing and Fire Protection Between All Units • Jacuzzi Garden Tub and Separate Glassed-In Shower • Swimming Pool with Elaborate Fountain and State-of-the-Art Filtration System • ENERGY STAR Rated: Environmental Friendly and Energy Efficient • Granite Counter Tops and Travertine Flooring • Outside Kitchen and Flat Screen TV for Entertaining

The Links • • • • • • •

Apartment Homes

1, 2, and 3 bedrooms Fitness Center Resort-style pool Open-floor plans Gated-access community Garage and Storage Closets Intrusions Alarms

• • • • • • •

Playgrounds Dog Park Screened Porches/Sun rooms Outdoor Grilling Areas Washer/Dryer Connections 24-hour emergency response Walk-in Closets

Office Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00-5:00PM | Saturday 9:00-1:00PM (229) 333-0999 www.thelinksapartments.com thelinks@invmgt.com 3715 North Valdosta Rd. Valdosta, Georgia 31602 - All homes have private patios or terrace patios - Ceiling fans in living room and master bedrooms - Fully equipped kitchens

OFFICE HOURS: Mon - Fri: 8AM - 5PM • Sat: 10AM - 3PM After hours by appointment only

- Washer/Dryer connections in select units - Carpeted bedrooms - Simulated hardwood flooring in living areas of select units - Internet and phone outlets in every bedroom - An optional alarm system is present in every unit - Central heating and air - Oversized walk in closet in select units - Resident’s choice of cable, TV, or Dish Network

APARTMENTS

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1601 Norman Drive Valdosta, GA 31601 (229)247-8472 sprchase@bellsouth.net www.springchaseapartments.com

Poolside Wireless Internet • In-House Business Center • 24-Hour On Call Emergency Service Playground Area • State-of-the-Art Fitness Center • Two Swimming Pools • Tennis Court Laundry Facility • Computer Lab • Free Notary Services • Residence Conference Center and Library Gated, Access-Controlled Community with Limited Video Surveillance • Professionally Trained On-site Management Team • SOS Yelp System for Emergency Vehicles

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Residential & Commercial 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

• Repairs • Video Inspection of Drain Lines • New Construction • Smoke Testing • State Certified of Drains Backflow Prevention Testing & Repair • Medical Gas Services Locally Owned & Operated • Since 2001 Licensed • Bonded • Insured GA LIC#MP208812 FLA LIC#CFC1427491 www.plumbingservicecompany.net

229-247-1144

RE SIDE NTIAL LIVING

plumbingservicecompany2001@gmail.com 203 Mildred St. Valdosta, GA 31601

Monday - Friday • 9a.m. - 5p.m. Saturday - Sunday • Closed

www.valdostachamber.com

Specializing in quality products, sales and service since 1945, Southern Builders Supply Company offers a full line of building supplies. Located in Valdosta, Georgia, we service South Georgia and North Florida.

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1301 Madison Hwy Valdosta, Georgia 31601 (229)242-4750

Combining unique, modern design elements with carefully preserved classic architecture, downtown loft living blends history with contemporary features. Downtown Valdosta delivers a true, vibrant downtown experience, complete with apartments, nearby retail businesses, restaurants, office space, cultural institutions and public art. When it comes to rentals, the possibilities are almost endless in the Valdosta/Lowndes County region. From tidy apartments, modern condos and detached houses to townhomes, and urban lofts, the Valdosta region offers a wealth of rental choices. Valdosta renters also have the advantage to choose between newly constructed dwellings or buildings bursting with historical charm.

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Southern Flooring & Kimble Wood Blinds Carpet, Tile, Wood, Vinyl, Blinds, Plantation Shutters, Shades

Southern South thern Flooring ng Of Valdosta ta

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229.444.2201 OPEN TOP ROLL OFF DUMPSTERS

Serving Lowndes and Surrounding Counties in GA Locally Owned and Operated

Excellent Service, Fair Pricing and Effective Communications.

mgraham@safewastedisposal.org www.safewastedisposal.org

RE S IDENTIAL LIVING

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Deep South Sanitation (DSS) was founded in 2011 with one truck and 20 customers in our neighborhood. We saw a need for good old fashioned waste collection service in our hometown and set out to fill it.

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THE POOL STORE FOR ALL YOUR BACKYARD NEEDS

• Service • Repairs • Retail

www.thepoolstore.net

VALDOSTA

3363 N. Valdosta Rd. • 229.247.6440

THOMASVILLE

1616 Smith Ave • 229.227.1194

Residential & Commercial

RE SIDE NTIAL LIVING

FREE Estimates

www.valdostachamber.com

Coombs Heating & Air Conditioning Experts stand ready to meet all your heating/air conditioning needs. Some of the benefits that you will enjoy when dealing with Coombs Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc include: • Over 30 Years Experience! • Residential & Commercial • FREE Estimates • Service on all Makes & Models Owner, Tim Coombs, takes great pride in providing only quality service.

307 W Lawson St. • Hahira, Georgia (229) 794-1712 • fax (229) 794-3856 www.coombsac.com

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GOLF COURSE COMMUNITIES Valdosta features three golf course communities that are quite popular with both retirees and young families. Twenty years ago, Stone Creek was created by a team of architects and planners who turned a cattle ranch into 700 homes situated against a lake and an 18-hole golf course lined with moss-draped live oaks. Although it’s located right off I-75, Stone Creek seems like it’s far away from the day-to-day rush. Residents enjoy golfing and fishing without having to leave the neighborhood.

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Howard Dasher, III 229-834-1079

Beth Graham 304-382-7856

Charlie Massey 229-402-0246

Oscar Coronado 786-451-6512

Britt Henderson 912-816-5565

Jack Oliver 229-460-1995

Heidi Fafard 229-560-5660

Amelia Hidy 229-251-4572

Dean Smith 229-560-7881

Call us for all your real estate needs!

65 www.valdostachamber.com

Jennifer Carter 229-269-0950

RE S IDENTIAL LIVING

Tommy Cangelosi 229-834-7131

Missy Sherwood 229-561-0232

Alison Stokes 229-269-3629

311 N. Patterson Street • Suite A Valdosta, GA 31601 • 229-474-4051 www.primepropertiesservices.com

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LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE! VISIT FIVEPOINTSAPTS.COM FOR MORE INFO.

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RE SIDE NTIAL LIVING

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For those who appreciate tradition, the deep roots of the century-old Valdosta Country Club are irresistible. Sports like golf and swimming in the Olympic-sized pool, as well as socializing, have always been mainstays of the community. With the club’s emphasis on family and enduring focus on modernization, living at the Valdosta Country Club feels as fresh and welcome as a cold one at the golfers’ grill after a long day on the links. Kinderlou Forest is a modern and luxurious gated community offering both expansiveness and quality in homes and amenities. Shaded streets lined with beautiful homes surround an 18-hole championship golf course designed by PGA professional Davis Love III.

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229.244.0924 millerhardware.com 211 East Hill Avenue

of Valdosta

RE S IDENTIAL LIVING

www.remaxofvaldosta.com 229.247.2008 1216 Baytree Road Valdosta, GA 31602

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• PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES • RESIDENTIAL INVESTMENT SALES

2935 North Ashley St., Suite 104

• MULTI-FAMILY INVESTMENT SALES

247-4450 www.lincolnrealtyvaldosta.com

RE SIDE NTIAL LIVING

RETIREE AMENITIES

Independent Living Facility for Seniors 62 Years of Age and Older

229.242.4025

email: sandshorizon@bellsouth.net

Other attractions include the regional airport, South Georgia Regional Medical Center (including both Heart and Cancer Center), Moody Air Force Base and Valdosta State University, which offers a myriad of continuing education programs for seniors. In addition, the most popular amenities in the area for retirees include the symphony, theater and outdoor entertainment, including the numerous lakes and abundant wildlife. The area offers state and national parks including Reed Bingham and Banks Lake. Also, Valdosta has a VA Clinic and a VA hospital is located within 60 miles. w

www.valdostachamber.com

Retirees are attracted to the Valdosta area primarily because of the warm climate, lower cost of living and housing and accessibility of I-75, said Alison Stokes, a Realtor with Prime Properties Services, LLC and president of the Valdosta Board of REALTORS®.

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VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

HOUSES OF WORSHIP COMMUNITY INFLUENCE Houses of worship are involved in two of the most notable events of the year in the Valdosta area – the Father Daughter Valentine Dance and the Kosher Corned Beef Sandwich Sale. Both events involve hundreds of volunteers and thousands of participants, bringing together the entire Valdosta community.

FATHER DAUGHTER VALENTINE DANCE

It’s now considered the largest fatherdaughter dance in the country, drawing almost 5,000 dads and daughters every year.

The dance attendance grew to 375, 625 and more than 1,000 in successive years, which meant they had to continually find larger venues. Now the dance takes place over two days, with two sessions per night in the Rainwater Conference Center. The event has more than just its physical genesis in the church – many members have worked at it every year. That includes Stewart’s wife, Becky, who has played a pivotal role from the beginning, and his now-grown daughters – Macy and Melissa – who live within a few hours of Valdosta and help out each year. “The church is the backbone of the event,” with members preparing refreshments,

welcoming people and helping dads with daughters, he said. “We have numerous other volunteers from the community, too. We couldn’t do it without both of those.” All proceeds from the dance go to support various missions of First Presbyterian Church. The Valdosta event has opened up new opportunities for older adult dads and adult daughters – even granddaughters – especially because some dad-daughter combinations have been to all 22 of the dances through 2018. For example, one 82-year-old man has come to the dance for about seven years with his adult daughter. Another man flies in from Seattle so he can attend the dance with his granddaughters. Most often, though, it’s a dad bringing his daughter on a first date. “This event provides opportunities for fathers and father figures to set an example for daughters about how a man should treat a lady on a date,” Stewart said. “No one can set a better example than dad.” ’

H O U S E S O F WO RS H IP CO MMU NITY INF LUENCE

When Jeff Stewart came up with the idea for a father-daughter dance, he had no idea it would grow any larger than the First Presbyterian Church hall.

Stewart started the dance in 1997 because he had daughters ages 2-and-a-half and 6 years old, he said. “I saw an article in Focus on the Family quarterly magazine and it talked about a gentleman who started a fatherdaughter dance in Massachusetts. It said to send $5 for more information, so I did. At the first dance, 170 showed up and it blew us away.”

-..... -:- : "Where Service Makes The Difference!" ........... . . ....

Auto• Home• Business• Life Insurance Robbie Brooker 1808 Jerry Jones Drive• Valdosta, GA 31602 www.brookerinsurance.org

69 www.valdostachamber.com

BROOKER IN�-�C

229-242-2099

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KOSHER CORNED BEEF SANDWICH SALE Corned beef has a common tie-in with St. Patrick’s Day, as sales of the meat go up dramatically because of its association with the special day. In Valdosta, it’s quite likely most residents get their only St. Patrick’s corned beef sandwich from a Jewish temple, thanks to the Kosher Corned Beef Sandwich Sale. The event started as a major fund-raiser for the temple and it has grown dramatically in the last 19 years. For example, it increased from 500 sandwiches the first year to 1,500 the next and about 6,200 in 2018.

HOUS E S OF W O RS H IP CO MMU NIT Y INFLU E NCE

It’s now to the point that the fund-raiser supplies about 40 percent of the temple’s

AbundAnt Life ChurCh of God

budget. But that was the goal – to build connections between the temple and the community, many of whom had never been in a temple until they went to the event, according to Rabbi Moshe Elbaz. “We have a fantastic relationship with the non-Jewish community,” he said. “They support us.” The event takes place over three days. It begins Friday during the day, then stops for Sabbath on Friday night and Saturday. It continues Sunday and Monday. The meal includes Jewish rye bread with sliced kosher meat brisket, along with chips, a cookie and drink. Preparation begins about six months before the event and about 100 people help out each day of the event to prepare and serve the sandwiches. The event started a couple of years before Elbaz arrived in Valdosta from Orlando, Fla., but it’s an important part of his goal to build a bridge with the entire community. The temple has 65 families and is the only one in a 100-mile radius. Some members, for example, drive about an hour each way for services. Other churches have asked Elbaz for tips on how they could conduct a similar event. But they generally don’t succeed, he said. “This is unique to Valdosta,” the rabbi said. w

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3419 Knights Academy Road, Valdosta, GA 31605

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Loving God Loving People Serving the World Ministries: Sharing and Caring At Central Ave. Church of Christ, we take responsibility to minister to others as part of our daily Christian life. Our members are active in dozens of ministries that help people in our community and throughout the world.

Education: Studying Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Word Bible classes for all ages are available on Sunday morning (9:30 a.m.) and Wednesday night (7 p.m.) to promote spiritual growth and increase Bible knowledge, and encourage one another in developing a deeper fellowship with God. Sunday worship services are held at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Missions: Spreading the Gospel Central Ave. Church of Christ supports mission teams throughout the world and across the U.S. Central also supports the Raintree Village (Georgia) and Mount Dora Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Home (Florida).

304 E. Central Ave., Valdosta, GA | 229.242.6115 | www.cacoc.com

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VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

PREFERRED BUSINESS LISTINGS ACCOUNTANTS

ADVERTISING

PR EFE RRE D BU S INE S S LIS T ING S

Dame, Walker, Hardeman & Co., LLC 3547 N Crossing Cir Valdosta, GA 31604 .............. (229) 259-0909 sbarton@southeastcpas.com www.southeastcpas.com

www.valdostachamber.com

Fowler, Holley, Rambo & Stalvey, P.C. Carl Holley 3208 Wildwood Plantation Dr Valdosta, GA 31605 .......... (229) 244-1559 cholley@valdostacpa.com www.valdostacpa.com Our commitment to personal, professional and educational growth assures our clients that we will stay one step ahead in the areas of financial planning, taxation, auditing, accounting, management services and succession planning.

Lee & Associates Accountants, Inc. Lee & Associates Accountants Michael Lee 3127 N Oak St Ext Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 247-1040 admin@leeassoc.net We are a small, local accounting firm specializing in individual and small-business clients. Our CPSs and Enrolled Agents provide clients with customized assistance ranging from bookkeeping services, payroll, start-up services and tax planning. Valenti, Rackley & Associates, LLC Nick Valenti 208 W Park Ave Valdosta, GA 31602 .............. (229) 247-8005 nick@vracpa.com www.vracpa.com Gary R. Zeigler, P.C. Gary R Zeigler 609 N Patterson Valdosta, GA 31603 .......... (229) 244-3262 gary@grzeiglercpa.com www.grzeiglercpa.com Certified Public Accountants & Business Consultants/Income Tax Planning & Preparation; Auditing; Management Advisory; Estate, Gift & Trust; Retirement Planning & Plan Administration; Software Selection & Training; Payroll Processing; Bookkeeping

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Fairway Outdoor Advertising Deborah Enfinger 369 Enterprise Dr Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 219-4489 deborah.enfinger@fairwayoutdoor.com www.fairwayoutdoor.com FOA is here to reinvent the medium known as outdoor and to prove that outdoor advertising along with online advertising is more powerful than anyone has yet to imagine. Facebook.com/ElevateValdosta

Waller Heating & Air Conditioning David Waller Jr. 405 N St Augustine Rd Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 244-1200 dswaller@bellsouth.net http://wallerhvac.com No matter how big or small your project may be, our experienced technicians are ready and willing to get started. You’ll never have a reason to doubt the work we leave behind.

AMUSEMENT PLACES AIR AMBULANCE SERVICE

Air Methods Corporation Trevor Hicks 2740 Madison Hwy Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (904) 673-7213 trevor.hicks@airmethods.com https://www.airmethods.com OUR REACH IS FAR. OUR CARE IS WIDE. Emergency care doesn’t begin in the hospital ER — it begins at the scene of the accident or a life-threatening illness strikes.

AIR CONDITIONING CONTRACTORS

Coombs Heating & Air Conditioning Tim Coombs 307 W Lawson St Hahira, GA 31632 ............. (229) 794-1712 coombs.hvac@yahoo.com www.coombsac.com If you want a personal guarantee based on Christian principles, please call us. All of our staff stand ready to serve you. We service all makes and models. Offering a $120.00 service plan for twice-a-year service.

Wild Adventures Theme Park Wild Adventures/Guest Relations 3766 Old Clyattville Rd Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 219-7080 contactus@wildadventures.com www.wildadventures.com Wild Adventures is home to more than 40 family and thrill rides, hundreds of exotic animals, the region’s largest water park and dozens of concerts and special events each year. Visit our website for more information, including park hours, operating days, season passes and more.

APARTMENTS Northwind Apartment Homes Brittany Lee Attn: Front Office 5148 Northwind Blvd Valdosta, GA 31605 .............. (229) 241-8237 cdnorthwind@matrixresidential.com http://northwind-apartments.com

Sands Horizon, Inc. Henry Wright 1195 Old Statenville Rd Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 242-4025 sandshorizon@bellsouth.net A residential living community for independent senior citizens age 62 and older. Each apartment offers one bedroom, one bathroom, a full-sized kitchen and spacious living and dining areas.

Spanish Mission Apartments Kristin Foster 422 Connell Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 242-7333 spanishmission@smpmgt.com http://spanishmissionapartments.com We invite YOU to come visit our complex! Located minutes from Moody AFB and Valdosta State University, our community offers newly renovated apartment homes with fully equipped kitchens, reserved parking, and other amenities designed with you in mind.

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Spring Chase Apartments Margaret Fountain 1601 Norman Dr Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 247-8472 sprchase@bellsouth.net www.springchaseapartments.com Located approximately 20 minutes from Moody Air Force Base and within walking distance of all the finer restaurants, as well as, the Valdosta Mall. We are also only seven short minutes from Valdosta State University.

The Links Apartment Homes 3715 N Valdosta Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 333-0999 thelinks@invmgt.com www.thelinksapartments.com Located in Beautiful Valdosta, GA, The Links offers a lifestyle of carefree living with beautiful, affordable and spacious apartment homes. We offer peace of mind with controlled access gates and video monitoring.

Hamilton Estate Planning Paul W. Hamilton 2918 N Oak St, Ste C Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 207-0850 paul@hamiltonestateplanning.com http://hamiltonestateplanning.com Paul Hamilton is South Georgia’s trusted estate planning advisor for legal advice and guidance including wills, trusts, elder law, estate litigation and long-term care planning.

Langdale Vallotton, LLP Shannon Hall 1007 N Patterson St Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 244-5400 shall@langdalelaw.com www.langdalelaw.com Langdale Vallotton, LLP is a MartindaleHubbell “AV” rated law firm specializing in business and real estate transactions and litigation matters, with a particular focus on personal injury litigation.

AUTOMOBILE DEALERS Valdosta Toyota Ricky Stokes 2980 James Rd Valdosta, GA 31601 .............. (229) 247-1920 rstokes@valdostatoyota.com www.valdostatoyota.com

Tall Tree Apartments “Come Home to Quality” 420 Connell Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 244-9632 leasing@talltreeapartment.com www.talltreeapartments.com Come live where you and your home are a priority and your happiness is not just assumed but guaranteed. An attentive staff, friendly neighbors, and a stress-free lifestyle are all waiting for you!

The Residences at Five Points Tabatha McGee 100 Garden Dr Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 293-7317 live@fivepointsapts.com www.fivepointsapts.com LUXURY...LOCATION...LIFESTYLE...this is our motto at The Residences at Five Points. Conveniently located near Moody AFB, VSU and SGMC in the emerging Five Points area, you will love to Thrive at Five!

ATTORNEYS Dover Miller Karras and Langdale, P.C. 701 N Patterson St Valdosta, GA 31603 .............. (229) 242-0314 www.dovermiller.com

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Earl Copeland Garage, Inc Earl Copeland 1003 Williams Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 242-5795 earl@earlcopelandgarage.com www.earlcopelandgarage.com Earl Copeland Garage, Inc. was built on simple downhome principles: Treat the customer right, fix it right the first time and always strive to be the best in our field.

NE-RO Tire & Brake Service, Inc. Elaine Strickland 2311 S Patterson St Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 244-8353 estrikland1@mediacombb.net www.neecetire.com We specialize in providing our customers with the latest technology in auto repairs and tires, but not at the latest prices.

AUTOMOBILE REPAIRS & SERVICE Yancey Brothers Danny West 2966 US Hwy 84 W Valdosta, GA 31601 .............. (229) 242-8610 danny_west@yanceybros.com

BAKERY

AUTOMOBILE RENTING

Avis Valdosta Angela Shuman 1750 Airport Rd, Ste 2 Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 242-4242 avisvaldosta@gmail.com www.avis.com Rent a Car or SUV with Avis Today! Hours: Monday - Saturday 8 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sunday - 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Martin’s Famous Pastry Shoppe, Inc. 2000 Potato Roll Ln Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (800) 548-1200 marketing@potatorolls.com www.potatorolls.com Home of the #1 Branded Hamburger Roll in the USA! Family-owned and operated since 1955. Look for our Famous Potato Rolls and Bread in your local grocery store.

PRE FE RRE D B U S INES S LIS TING

Staten Crossing Apartments “Better, Because We Care” 3925 N Oak St Ext Valdosta, GA 31605 .......... (229) 247-9880 leasing@statencrossing.com www.statencrossing.com A community designed with Classic Southern style and charm. Spacious garden apartments are nestled within majestic oaks and built with fine details. Come to Staten Crossing – Welcome Home!

The Gardens 3531 Club Villas Dr Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 242-9372 thegardens@invmgt.com www.thegardensvaldosta.com If value is a consideration in your search for a new home then look no further! The Gardens takes great pride in providing new and innovative lifestyles, free from the everyday worries of owning a home.

AUTOMOBILE REPAIRS

73 www.valdostachamber.com

APARTMENTS/ CONDOMINIUMS

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BANKS

The Citizens Bank 4060 Bemiss Rd Valdosta, GA 31605 .......... (229) 247-5266 gcopeland@nhcbanking.com www.nhcbanking.com 24-hour ATM. Lobby Hours: Monday Thursday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Drive-Thru Hours: Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed Saturday.

PR EFE RRE D BU S INE S S LIS T ING S

Citizens Community Bank Tim Jones PO Box 3788 Valdosta, GA 31604 .......... (229) 242-2225 tjones@citizenscommunitybank.net www.citizenscommunitybank.net Proudly serving the community for 91 years, offering all the products & services you need. Stop by any of our convenient locations and you’ll immediately feel at home. Member FDIC.

Colony Bank Eddie Smith 3774 Old US Hwy 41 N Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 241-9900 esmith@colonybank.com www.colonybank.com At Colony Bank our operating premise is simple, if we help you meet your goal, we’ll meet ours. So our objective is to help you achieve the personal and business financial goals that define success for you. Member FDIC.

BANKS/INVESTMENTS

First Federal Savings & Loan of Valdosta 411 N Patterson St Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 244-0164 www.1stfederalvaldosta.com First Federal Savings of Valdosta — Downtown: 411 N Patterson St; Northside: 2728 N Oak St; Lake Park: 821 Lakes Blvd; Norman Dr: 460 Norman Dr. Come in today to learn more about First Federal and why banking locally Is the best solution for you. Serving our Community’s needs since 1934.

Southwest Georgia Bank Jeff Hanson 3500 N Valdosta Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 244-4444 jeff.hanson@sgfc.com www.sgb.bank Southwest Georgia Bank offers comprehensive financial services to consumer, business, and governmental customers. The bank serves Lowndes, Colquitt, Tift, Worth, and Baker Counties in Georgia.

Synovus Bank Bill Cowart 3650 Inner Perimeter Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 242-5725 billcowart@synovus.com www.synovus.com Banking • Lending • Investing Here for you, wherever you are. Synovus is the bank of here. Stop by your local branch and let us help with all your financial needs.

The Investment Centre at Commercial Banking Company Steve Boatner 3466 N Valdosta Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 291-8426 steve.boatner@ceterais.com http://investwithtic.com Through our broker dealer, Cetera Investment Services, we offer you access to a full-service brokerage to serve a wide range of investment and planning needs. Whether you desire short- or long-term investment planning, or a combination, we can help build a plan that is designed to meet your needs.

CATERERS

Fazoli’s Chris Parker 1307 N St Augustine Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 241-7780 5073@fazolis.com www.fazolis.com Fazoli’s friendly staff serves fast and fresh Italian food including pasta, Submarinos®, salads, pizza & desserts — and unlimited signature breadsticks when you dine in. Order in-restaurant, drive-thru, or from our Catering menu at fazolis.com

CHILD CARE CENTERS

BUILDING CONTRACTORS

Southern Builders Supply Terry Hurst 1301 Madison Hwy Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 242-4750 thurst@southernbuilderssupply.com http://southernbuilderssupply.com Southern Builders Supply is a full-line building supply store for the commercial and residential building contractor, as well as the do-it-yourself customer.

CABINETS

Tickle Me Pink Daycare & Learning Center Pamela R. Carter 252 N St Augustine Rd Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 245-9881 thecarters4@bellsouth.net www.ticklemepinkdaycare.com Infant care (6 weeks & up) — Toddlers Ones & Twos — Preschool (3 & 4 year old) — GA. Pre-K — GA. Accredited Kindergarten — Before & After-school Care — “Where Children Success Matters.”

CHIROPRACTORS Care Medical - Spine & Pain Center Dr. J. Ryan Moorman 2804-C N Oak St Valdosta, GA 31602 .............. (229) 241-8925 jryanm7@yahoo.com www.caremedicalcenter.com

www.valdostachamber.com

74 Commercial Banking Company Ashley Mock 3462 N Valdosta Rd & 1215 Baytree Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 242-7600 www.cbcbank.com We are your local bank, your friends and neighbors. Our tagline, Committed to You — Our Customer, Our Community, is just a reminder of that commitment to you. From your Personal to Commercial banking needs, we are here for you.

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S & S Woodworking Travis Strickland 5015 Inner Perimeter Rd Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 244-6362 april@sandswoodworking.com http://sandswoodworking.com At S&S Woodworking, we specialize in custom cabinetry, mantles, entertainment centers, and a wide variety of other handcrafted wood products.

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CLEANERS

Elevate Chiropractic Dr. Trent Leisley 2947 N Ashley St, Ste A Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 474-4100 elevatevaldosta@gmail.com www.elevatevaldosta.com We strive to provide the most affordable, quality chiropractic care in the Valdosta area. No Insurance Needed. Why pay an Arm and a Leg to have your Spine checked? Facebook.com/ElevateValdosta

Pleats & Creases Evan Miller 209 Northside Dr Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 242-7000 ewm103@bellsouth.net www.pleatsncreases.com Pleats & Creases is a full-service laundry and dry cleaning enterprise. We have 5 convenient locations to serve you. Monday - Friday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m., Saturday: 8 a.m. 12 p.m. We accept all major credit cards.

CLEANING — INTERIOR

CHURCHES

CLOTHING — WOMEN’S

Joy’s Boutique and Co. Joy Eason 3003 Bemiss Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 333-0408 silvereagle3003@gmail.com www.joysboutiqueandco.com Established in 2013, we are a local establishment and online boutique. We stock new items in our online and brickand-mortar store (flattering tops to chic accessories) carefully selected for juniors and women.

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Prime Properties Services, LLC Howard Dasher III/Missy Sherwood 311 N Patterson St, Ste A Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 474-4051 frontoffice@primepropertiesservices.com www.primepropertiesservices.com We are Valdosta and South Georgia’s premier full service real estate company that focuses on commercial, residential, investment, industrial and land property transactions. We pride ourselves on providing complete professional real estate services to our clients.

COMPUTER & EQUIPMENT DEALERS CLUBS

CLOTHING

KingKing Frog Frog Clothing & The Lilypad Clothing & the Lilypad

1221 W 4th St, Ste 1

1221 West Fourth Street Suite 1 Adel, GA 31620 ................ (229) 896-4848 Adel, GA 31620 (229)www.kingfrog.com 896-4848 www.KingFrog.com Come shop clothing brands for men &

Valdosta Country Club Lee M. Smothers PO Box 2325 Valdosta, GA 31604 .......... (229) 242-3706 lsmothers@valdostacc.com http://valdostacc.com Valdosta’s only Private Club, offering: Three 9-hole golf courses; clay tennis courts; fitness center; short-course Olympic pool; snack bar, casual & fine dining; & meeting, banquet & event space. Membership opportunities that fit all lifestyles.

CONFERENCE CENTERS

women including Carhartt, State Traditions,

Central Avenue Church of Christ John Klimko Jr. 304 E Central Ave Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 242-6115 www.cacoc.com In the Heart of Valdosta. Find us on Facebook. Northside Baptist Church of Valdosta, Inc. Beth McCrary 200 E Park Ave Valdosta, GA 31602 .............. (229) 242-4940 bethm@nbcvaldosta.org www.nbcvaldosta.org

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Come shop clothing brands for men & women including Aftco, Southern Marsh, Lauren James, Carhartt, State Traditions, Aftco, Southern Marsh, Lauren Mountain StatePride. Pride. James, MountainKhakis Khakis& & Peach Peach State GiftGift lines include Corckcicle, HOBO &Corckcicle, Scout. lines include HOBO & Scout. www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

James H. RAINWATER Conference Center Sandra Roose 1 Meeting Pl Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 219-4405 sroose@valdostatourism.com www.rainwaterconferencecenter.com The Rainwater Conference Center offers great space, flexible sets and a beautiful outdoor venue overlooking a lake. Parking and Wi-Fi are on-site and complimentary with your booking.

PRE FE RRE D B U S INES S LIS TING

Abundant Life Church of God Pastor B. Wayne Hughes 3419 Knights Academy Rd Valdosta, GA 31605 .......... (229) 242-4252 abundantlifeval@gmail.com www.abundantlifevaldosta.com Abundant Life is a Full Gospel Church that is affiliated with the Church of God (Cleveland, Tennessee).

Nexxtep Technology Services, Inc. Paul Nichols 3256 N Valdosta Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 671-1513 info@nexxtep.com www.nexxtep.com Nexxtep focuses your business success before technology. With our full range of IT services, you will remove costly mistakes and transform IT from a cost center to a strategic investment.

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AbundAnt Life ChurCh of God

Commercial Cleaning Industries Carl Copeland 2403 Winding Way Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 253-2637 carlcinc@gmail.com We believe in taking a professional approach to your needs. Our goal is to provide a quality service in a consistent manor. We are locally owned and operated for 14 years.

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COUNSELORS — LICENSED

Michelle Alden Counseling Services Michelle Alden Counseling Services Michelle Alden LPC, NCC, CAMS II 3316 Bemiss Rd Valdosta, GA 31605 .......... (850) 510-8627 michellealden22@gmail.com I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, and Certified in anger management. I conduct individual, couples, family counseling and groups. I do face to face sessions as well as online and telephonic and accept insurances.

EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES

Worthington Family Dentistry Amy Worthington, Office Manager 3362 Greystone Way Valdosta, GA 31605 .......... (229) 242-0063 www.worthingtonfamilydentistry.com We offer complete dentistry for the entire family including cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, free whitening, nitrous oxide, treatment for TMJ, implants, dentures and partials. Please give us a call at (229) 242-0063.

New Hire Solutions, LLC 2904-E N Patterson St Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 316-1320 info@newhiresolutions.net www.newhiresolutions.com New Hire Solutions is a full-service payroll and staffing company. We will take on the interviewing, reference checking, testing and all other functions related to the hiring of employees assigned to your business. We also cover workers comp, all payroll taxes, and offer health insurance.

DEPARTMENT STORES Wal-Mart Supercenter #2615 David Adams 3274 Inner Perimeter Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .............. (229) 253-0312 doadams.s02615.us@wal-mart.com www.wal-mart.com

PR EFE RRE D BU S INE S S LIS T ING S

DENTISTS Joseph L. Kirbo, Jr., DDS Dr. Joseph L. Kirbo Jr. 2722 N Oak St Valdosta, GA 31602 .............. (229) 247-1661 jkirbo@bellsouth.net www.jkirbodds.com

www.valdostachamber.com

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Greenleaf Center Lance Wilcher 2209 Pineview Dr Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 247-4357 lance.wilcher@acadiahealthcare.com www.greenleafhospital.com Greenleaf Center is a 103-bed behavioral health and substance abuse hospital. With a focus on quality treatment, we make sure to meet clients where they are on their road to recovery.

ELECTRIC CONTRACTORS Consolidated Electrical Distributors Keith Maxwell 709-C Gil Harbin Industrial Blvd Valdosta, GA 31601 .............. (229) 242-2870 kmaxwell@cedvaldosta.com http://cedvaldosta.shopced.com

FINANCING

ENTERTAINMENT The Brush Up Bionca Ball 2904 N Patterson St, Ste J Valdosta, GA 31602 .............. (229) 292-2158 thebrushup1@gmail.com www.thebrushup1.com

DRUG ABUSE & ADDICTION — INFORMATION & TREATMENT Peaceway Counseling & Mediation Services, Inc. Dr. F. Tirrell Andrews 2405 Bemiss Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 333-2351 tandrews@peacewaycms.com www.peacewaycms.com PeaceWay Counseling & Mediation Services, Inc. is a Valdosta-based clinical practice that focuses on helping families and individuals with putting the pieces together through therapeutic interventions.

Synovus Bill Cowart PO Box 4810 Valdosta, GA 31604 ........... (888) SYNOVUS http://synovus.com Our mission, each and every day, is to help the people and businesses in our community reach their full potential. Welcome to the bank of here. Banking. Lending. Investing. Here for you, wherever you are.

Valdosta Symphony Orchestra Doug Farwell Department of Music 500 N Patterson St Valdosta, GA 31698 .......... (229) 333-5804 dfarwell@valdosta.edu www.valdostasymphony.org Experience the Valdosta Symphony Orchestra’s exciting 2018-19 season, featuring star pianist Orion Weiss and the legendary Canadian Brass!

FINANCIAL PLANNING CONSULTANTS Bush Wealth Management Stacy Bush 2918 N Oak St Valdosta, GA 31602 .............. (229) 247-1474 stacy.bush@lpl.com www.bushwealthmanagement.com

1st Franklin Financial Corporation Chelsea Bruton 1900 Gornto Rd, Stes G-H Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 247-3558 cdb4586@1ffc.com www.1ffc.com 1st Franklin Financial Corporation is in the business of helping our friends and neighbors make their way through life with the dignity and respect they deserve. Since 1941, we have worked in local communities to provide financial solutions for our customers and their families.

FIRE PROTECTION SERVICES Georgia Automatic Sprinkler Co., Inc. Lacy Mulligan 1405 Harbin Cir Valdosta, GA 31601 .............. (229) 247-9939 tjolly@gaautomatic.com

FLOORING & WINDOW TREATMENTS

Southern Flooring Southern Flooring (previolusly Southern Flooring of Valdosta, LLC & Kimblewood Blinds & Shutters 808 N Patterson St Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 242-5668 Southern Flooring and Kimblewood Shutters and Blinds has over 25 years’ experience providing flooring, showers, and window treatments. We are a full-service company that can meet all your needs.

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Sunset Farm Foods, Inc. Thomas Carroll 1201 Madiison Hwy Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 242-2952 t.carroll@sunsetfarmfoods.com www.sunsetfarmfoods.com For 100 years we have been offering the best sausage and smoked meats. Available at your local grocer and military commissary. Fire up that grill!

GARBAGE COLLECTION

Deep South Sanitation, LLC Debbie Scarborough 205 Tucker Rd Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 559-0200 dssanitation@att.net www.deepsouthsanitation.com We are a local business, family-owned and operated, serving Lowndes County since 2011 with old-fashioned garbage pick-up services as well as commercial dumpster services.

GROCERS

Mr. B’s IGA Jesse Billingsley 1405 N Lee St Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 245-8300 mrbsmarketinc@bellsouth.net facebook - mrb’siga Mr. B’s IGA specializes in the groceries your family needs. Whatever you are looking for, you’ll find it at Mr. B’s IGA. Visit our supermarket and see what we have to offer.

HARDWARE STORE FOSTER CARE AGENCIES Choices for Life of Georgia, LLC Vivian Mann 2200 N Patterson St Valdosta, GA 31602 .............. (229) 244-1707 mharper@cflfostercare.com www.cflfostercare.com

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

FURNITURE Bed R Mattress Jay Lewis 1602 Norman Dr Valdosta, GA 31601 .............. (229) 671-9266 jay@bedrmattress.com www.valdosta.bedrmattress.com

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GLASS — AUTOMOBILE

American Glass & Mirror David Barry 215 W Savannah Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 244-4337 americanglass@bellsouth.net Patio Doors, Glass Table or Countertops, Plexiglass, Lexan, Insulated Glass, Aluminum Doors, Auto Glass Windshields, Wired Glass, Store Fronts, Tempered Glass, Shower Enclosure, Mirrors, Door Closer, Sun Room. Complete Glass Service.

Georgia NurseCare In-Home Assisted Living & Pediatric Care

Georgia NurseCare of South Georgia Brittany Ray, RN 4380 Kings Way, Ste B Valdosta, GA 31605 .......... (229) 671-9232 www.georgianursecare.com Providing homemaker/sitter services, personal care,errands, transportation, skilled nurse services & workers comp nursing. Services may be covered by Long-Term Care Policy, VA, or Medicaid waiver programs. Around the clock, we are ready!

HOSPITALS

HOME HEALTH SERVICES

CuraCare Health Services, Inc. Cindy Felton 3169 Inner Perimeter Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 253-1242 servicesp@bellsouth.net www.curacare.com Our Mission is to provide the highest quality home health care services available, while keeping in mind areas in need of performance improvement, in order to rehabilitate people to their optimal level of functioning or to assist them in coping with disability or terminal illness.

SGMC Pearlman Cancer Center Tamara Lane 2501 N Patterson St Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 259-4600 www.sgmc.org The Pearlman Comprehensive Cancer Center provides patients needing cancer treatments in our area award-winning, accredited cancer care close to home. For more information visit sgmc.org/cancer.

PRE FE RRE D B U S INES S LIS TING

Carson McLane Funeral Home Britt McLane PO Box 5203 Valdosta, GA 31603-5203. (229) 242-5544 britt@mclanecares.com www.mclanecares.com Our desire is to help families create special and personalized tributes for their loved ones. The McLane family and staff at McLane Funeral Services sincerely strives to provide excellence in all areas of funeral service.

Safe Waste Disposal Mark Graham Hahira, GA ......................... (229) 444-2201 mgraham@safewastedisposal.org www.safewastedisposal.org Safe Waste Disposal provides open top roll off dumpsters in Lowndes and surrounding counties. We pride ourselves in working hard, providing excellent service, effective communication, and fair pricing

Miller Hardware Company Jonathan Miller 211 E Hill Ave Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 244-0924 jmiller@millerhardware.com www.millerhardware.com Miller Hardware has been serving the communities of South Georgia and North Florida since 1908. As a fourth-generation family business, Miller Hardware continues to carry forward its reputable customer service through three distinct divisions.

Georgia Home Health Services Lynn Petermann 4380 Kings Way Valdosta, GA 31605 .......... (229) 247-4663 www.gahhs.com Medicare covers 100% of Georgia Home Health Services. We offer: Skilled Nursing • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy • Social Work • Home Health Aides

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FOOD PRODUCTS

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South Georgia Medical Center — SGMC 2501 N Patterson St Days Inn Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 333-1000 Raymond Upchurch www.sgmc.org Comfort Inn & Suites 1827 W Hill Ave SGMC, its campuses and affiliates, provide Inn & Suites Comfort David Fontaine Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 249-8800 an expansive array of medical services and stay@daysinn16valdosta.com David Fontaine 1785 W Hill Ave specialties to meet the wellness needs of Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 249-1000 Our rooms are outfitted with microwaves 1785 West Hill Ave individuals living in South Georgia and North stay@comfortvaldosta.com and refrigerators. We offer suites, nonValdosta, GA 31601 Florida. Visit sgmc.org for more information. smoking and accessible rooms, as well as (229) 249-1000 www.comfortvaldosta.com Adventure awaits you during your stay free airport shuttle service and free parking stay@comfortvaldosta.com with us at this pet-friendly Comfort Inn & for your car, truck, or RV. www.ComfortValdosta.com Suites® hotel in Valdosta near the James H. HOTELS Rainwater Conference fully-at this pet-friendly www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com Adventure awaits you during yourCenter stay with witha us equipped hotel business and more. Comfort Inn & Suites® in center Valdosta near the James H.

Howard Johnson David Burley 4598 N Valdosta Rd Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 244-4460 stay@hojo22valdosta.com Our pet-friendly hotel offers affordable accommodations with easy access to major local attractions including Wild Adventures, Moody Air Force Base, Freedom Park, and Valdosta State University. www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

Rainwater Conference Center with a fully-equipped business www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com center and more.

P RE FE RR ED B US INE S S LIS T ING S

www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com Baymont Inn & Suites Randy Ellenberg 1725 Gornto Rd Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 253-0009 baymontvaldosta@gmail.com www.baymontinns.com/valdosta 1725 Gornto Road off Exit 18 on I-75 Comfort Suites • Free Continental Breakfast John Camarillo Comfort Suites • Free WiFi 1332 N St Augustine Rd • Pillow top mattresses John Camarillo Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 249-8880 • In-ground pool 1332 N. St. Augustine Road stay@csvaldosta.com • HDTV in all rooms Valdosta, GA 31601 www.csvaldosta.com (229) 249-8880 It doesn’t matter if you’re here for business or pleasure, we have got you covered at the stay@csvaldosta.com Comfort Suites hotel. We also have 25% www.csvaldosta.com more space than traditional hotel rooms.

Candlewood Suites

www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com 249-2000

You’ll find the comfort and convenience of

You'll find the comfort and convenience of home at our home at our Candlewood Suites Valdosta Candlewood Suites Valdosta hotel. All rooms have fully hotel. All with rooms have fullystovetop, equippedmicrowave kitchens and equipped kitchens refrigerator, dishwasher. with refrigerator, stovetop, microwave and

dishwasher.

www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

www.valdostachamber.com

www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

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www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

Super 8 Cedric Tyson 1389 N St Augustine Rd Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 244-8440 stay@superdaysvaldosta.com Enjoy all the comforts of home at our Super 8 Valdosta Mall hotel, located off I-75, just minutes from Valdosta Regional Airport (VLD) and convenient to Moody Air Force Base. Our hotel provides friendly service and easy access to area attractions. www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com It doesn’t matter if you’re here for business or pleasure, we have got you covered at the Comfort Suites hotel. We also have 25% more space than traditional hotel rooms.

Candlewood Suites Christen Watkins Christen Watkins N St Augustine Rd 1003 N. St.1003 Augustine Road Valdosta, GA 31601GA 31601 .......... (229) Valdosta, (229) 249-2000 stay@candlewoodvaldosta.com stay@candlewoodvaldosta.com www.candlewoodvaldosta.com www.candlewoodvaldosta.com

Holiday Inn and Hotel Conference Center Melissa Simmons 1805 W Hill Ave Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 244-1111 stay@hivaldosta.com www.hivaldosta.com Experience the southern hospitality and charm at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Conference Center of Valdosta. We put the best of South Georgia at your fingertips.

Days Inn Cedric Tyson 1383 N St Augustine Rd Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 244-7600 stay@superdaysvaldosta.com Our comfortable hotel offers a free Daybreak continental breakfast, outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi. All rooms in our pet-friendly hotel are equipped with flat panel TVs, microwaves, and refrigerators. www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ty O’Steen 1330 N St Augustine Rd Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 249-8900 stay@hiexvaldosta.com www.hiexvaldosta.com The real breakfast of champions. The kind that’s complimentary and waiting for you every morning. We’ve got a whole buffet full of offerings ready to help kick start your day. www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

Super 8 Valerie Rucki 1825 W Hill Ave Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 249-8000 stay@super8valdosta.com Catch up on email from the comfort of your hotel room using free Wi-Fi, cool off with a swim in our outdoor pool, or relax on our pool deck. Refuel each morning with our free SuperStart breakfast to start your day the right way. www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

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MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS

www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

Mediacom Business John Knowles 2314 Hwy 84 W, Ste C Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 560-9471 johnknowles@mediacomcc.com www.mediacombusiness.com Mediacom Business delivers internet, phone & TV services. With a coast-to-coast fiber network, we offer connectivity with speeds of 10 Gigabit & beyond. Our state-of-theart national broadband network serves businesses across 22 states.

MEDICAL PRACTICE CONSULTANTS

Azalea Health Douglas Swords 107 W Central Ave Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (877) 777-7686 info@azaleahealth.com www.azaleahealth.com Azalea provides fully integrated, cloud-based EHR, RCM, Telehealth and Professional Consulting Services, enabling practices and rural hospitals to meet their business needs at a fraction of the complexity and cost.

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES Choices for Life of Georgia, LLC Vivian Mann 2200 N Patterson St Valdosta, GA 31602 .............. (229) 244-1707 mharper@cflfostercare.com www.cflfostercare.com

Mudanza Moving & Cleaning Mudanza Moving & Cleaning Joel Cologne 1202 Lakeview Dr Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 300-7150 mudanzaga@gmail..com www.mudanzamovingandcleaning.com As a professional working couple working in the hospitality industry, Joel and Lissy moved 17 times in 29 years. Two years ago Joel remembered his upbringing and the lessons learned in his mothers furniture store. Mom’s business motto was treat the customer with respect, give them good service at a good price, and they will sponsor and recomend you for life. That’s the MUDANZA way!

PRE FE RRE D B U S INES S LIS TING

SAFT America Inc. Naomi Silver 711 Gil Harbin Industrial Blvd Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 247-2331 naomi.silver@saftbatteries.com www.saftbatteries.com Our Saft Valdosta facility has over 40 years of world-class manufacturing capability, employing 240 employees. We manufacture nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries for aviation, rail and telecommunication markets. TM Poly-Film, Inc. Ken Morrison 503 Gil Harbin Industrial Blvd Valdosta, GA 31601 .............. (229) 247-7734 kmorrison@tmpolyfilm.com www.tmpolyfilm.com

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MOVERS

Thacker Dermatology, LLC Brandi Corbett 4233 Camelot Xing Valdosta, GA 31602 .............. (229) 469-4383 brandi.thackerderm@gmail.com www.facebook.com/thackerderm

INSURANCE

Brooker Insurance Agency, Inc. Robbie Brooker 1808 Jerry Jones Dr Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 242-2099 robbiebrooker@aol.com www.brookerinsurance.org With over 30 years of experience and a long-standing reputation for truly personal service within the community, it’s no wonder why countless homeowners, renters and commercial clients utilize our services for all their coverage needs.

Kona Ice of Lowndes Brenda Hassenstab 604 Parker Mathis Dr Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 300-6605 hassenstab@kona-ice.com https://www.kona-ice.com/find-a-kona We handle a whole variety of events including schools, corporations, day cares, summer programs, youth sports, picnics, weddings, and major sporting events and festivals youtube.com/ watch?v=ZfvkVpX3z-Y & facebook.com/ Kona-Ice-of-Lowndes-800062996825108

MANUFACTURERS MEDICAL CLINICS

Blanton & Griffin Insurance Agency Benjamin R. Blanton 2314 N Patterson St (across from S Georgia Medical Center) Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 247-6500 bblanton@blantongriffin.com www.blantongriffin.com Blanton & Griffin Insurance Agency has built a tradition of excellence for over 80 years by working hard to protect the investments of thousands of individuals and businesses that have placed their faith in our agency. Located across from S. Georgia Medical Center.

MOBILE SHAVED ICE

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Williams Investment Company Williams Hotel Group 1700 River St Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 223-3300 www.williamshotelgroup.com Our properties are strategically located in Adel, Tifton and Valdosta along I-75 giving you the perfect hotel brand to suit your lodging needs.

Landis International Roger W. Horton III 3185 Madison Hwy Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 247-6472 rhorton@landisintl.com www.landisintl.com Landis International, Inc., founded in 1982 specializes in Agricultural Research and Development, and Regulatory Affairs on the International, National, and State levels. There is no substitute for perfection!

MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS

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NURSING HOMES

P RE FE RR ED B US INE S S LIS T ING S

Presbyterian Homes of Georgia Alex Patterson 1901 W Screven St Quitman, GA 31643 .......... (229) 263-6100 skirkendoll@phquitman.org www.phgainc.org As you plan your retirement living, consider Presbyterian Homes of Georgia. A Christian ministry providing exceptional services, we offer gracious retirement living in five outstanding communities for those 62 and older.

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PruittHealth — Lakehaven Tina Hancock 410 Northside Dr Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 242-7368 thancock@pruitthealth.com www.pruitthealth.com Our integrated care model is governed by stringent commitment to quality: Quality of expertise, quality of care, quality of service and — most of all — quality of life.

NUTS — EDIBLE

South Georgia Pecan Co. Paul Joseph PO Box 5366 Valdosta, GA 31603 .......... (229) 244-1321 pjoseph@georgiapecan.com www.georgiapecan.com Specializing in custom gift baskets, gourmet and corporate gifts, South Georgia Pecan Company is your home for the perfect southern gift. From chocolate covered to cinnamon-spiced, you’ll find one-pound bags of over 35 varieties of nuts and more.

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ORGANIZATIONS

PEST CONTROL SERVICES

QUILTS & QUILTING

Behavioral Health Services of South Georgia Emily Scarbrough 3120 N Oak St Ext, Ste C Valdosta, GA 31602 .............. (229) 671-6109 escarbrough@bhsga.com www.bhsga.com

Cook’s Pest Control David Parrott 823 Gil Harbin Industrial Blvd Valdosta, GA 31601 .............. (229) 244-4687 valdosta@cookspest.com www.cookspest.com

Pinwheels Ginger Valenti 361 Northside Dr Valdosta, GA 31602 .............. (229) 232-4531 pinwheelsquilts@gmail.com www.pinwheels.com

PET CREMATORY

RADIO COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT & SYSTEMS Mobile Communications America 1606 River St Valdosta, GA 31601 .............. (229) 375-0565 www.callmc.com

The Crescent

The Crescent, The Garden Center, Inc. 901 N Patterson St Valdosta, GA 31604 .......... (229) 244-6747 www.thecrescentatvaldosta.com 1898 Neoclassical Home and Large Reception Hall. Perfect venues for small to large meetings and events. Located in the heart of Valdosta, GA.

Pets At Peace Britt McLane, Tammy McCoy 2212 N Patterson St Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 244-0007 www.mcclanecares.com www.mclanecares.com Pets at Peace is the only local pet crematory in South Georgia. Dignified Cremation Services for Your Beloved Pet. Call our office or let your vet know to call us.

PHYSICIANS & SURGEONS

Little Actors’ Theatre of Valdosta, Inc. Diane Tovar 1108 S Patterson St Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 292-4742 • f: (229) 247-0059 diane@littleactorstheatrevaldosta.com tovardiane@hotmail.com Little Actors’ Theatre is a nonprofit 501(c) (3) all children’s theatre. LAT offers classes, workshops, and the thrill of live stage performance in a nonjudgmental way. We serve all children regardless of their race, religion, ability or socio-economic status. Options Now Becky Deas 214 W Park Ave Valdosta, GA 31603 .......... (229) 333-0080 becky@optionsnow.org http://optionsnow.org Donate, Volunteer, Get Involved. A Christcentered ministry, advancing the sanctity of human life and sexual purity; offering free pregnancy testing and limited ultrasound in a confident and caring clinic. Repeat Boutique Thrift Store (Norman Dr.) Robin DeRocco 285 Norman Dr Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 333-0063 thriftstore@optionsnow.org www.optionsnow.org/shop Shop-Drop-Give Life! Drop items you don’t need; shop for items you do! Call to schedule large donation pick up! Profits fund Options Now, A Life Choice Clinic.

The Urology Institute & Continence Center Dr. Frank E. Glover Jr. 2601 Bemiss Rd, Ste N Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 474-4383 • f: (229) 474-4393 mdjglover5@icloud.com www.theurologyinstitute.com

PLUMBING CONTRACTORS

Plumbing Service Company Stephen Cook 203 Mildred Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 247-1144 plumbingservicecompany2001@gmail.com www.plumbingservicecompany.net Plumbing Service Company is a residential, commercial and industrial plumbing contractor that is dedicated to quality. We succeed only when we meet and exceed the expectations of our customers.

REAL ESTATE LRE Platinum Property Services Teri E Wilson 1902 Jerry Jones Dr Valdosta, GA 31602 .............. (229) 242-9293 twilson@lexusrealestate.com www.lexusrealestate.com

of Valdosta RE/MAX of Valdosta Tony Barker 1216 Baytree Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 247-2008 remaxofvaldostaoffice@gmail.com www.remaxofvaldosta.com We work hard to provide our clients with the most positive real estate experience possible. A vital part of today’s real estate industry is technology, and to that end we provide our clients with state-of-the-art web tools and marketing.

Real Living Realty Advisors Clay Browning 1817 Green Cir Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 333-4622 clay@ronborders.com www.getrealvaldosta.com Either buying a home, selling a home or just wanting to know more about real estate, we are ready to serve and assist you in all your real estate needs.

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REAL ESTATE AGENT

RECYCLING CENTERS Georgia Petroleum, Inc. Jason Crosby 1620 James P Rogers Dr Valdosta, GA 31601 .............. (229) 244-9110 jasonc@georgiapetroleum.com www.georgiapetroleum.com

Coldwell Banker Premier Real Estate — Mary Straka Mary Straka 1108 Gornto Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 561-4654 maryhstraka@gmail.com www.maryhstraka.realtor Whether you are looking to buy or sell a home, I am your Realtor. I work hard for my clients to make this process as stress-free as possible. I am a USAA certified agent and work closely with military clients and all other who are looking to buy or sell. Call me today and let me help you!

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Real Living Realty Advisors — Emily Courson Emily Courson 1817 Green Cir Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 630-2014 eawarren@gmail.com www.getrealvaldosta.com Since 1983 Valdosta has been my home. Specialize in residential first-time home buyers and relocations to Valdosta and the surrounding area for Moody Air Force Base, South Georgia Medical Center, Valdosta State University and retirees. Love working with people & finding you the perfect home in Lowndes County!

REAL ESTATE/PROPERTY Coldwell Banker Premier Real Estate — Lisa Thomas Lisa Thomas 1108 Gornto Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 300-5820 lisathomas@valdostarealtors.com www.valdostarealtors.com Dedicated to providing personal professional services for all your real estate needs.

Coldwell Banker Premier Real Estate — Misty Yeargan Misty Yeargan 1108 Gornto Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (912) 230-3557 mistyyeargan@gmail.com http://mistyyeargan.realtor If you have family or friends anywhere in the world who are thinking of buying or selling real estate, I would appreciate the opportunity to introduce them to a qualified agent in our network. Remember me for all your real estate needs!

The Herndon Company Real Estate, Inc. Laurie Gulliksen 1100 N Patterson St Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 244-1992 herndon@herndoncompany.com www.homesinvaldosta.com The Herndon Company offers full-service real estate specializing in residential, commercial, property management, farms and land in the Valdosta and South Georgia area. Voted “Best of South Georgia” Real Estate Agency 10 out of the past 12 years!

RECEPTIONS, GATHERINGS & EVENTS

Park Place by McLane Kristin McLane/Becky Lincoln 108 W Park Ave Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 242-5544 becky@mcclanecares.com www.mcclanecares.com Park Place is an old home, beautifully decorated and set up for small gatherings. Park Place is handicap accessible, has a caterers staging area, a serving room, a large room that seats up to 64 guests, restrooms, large front porch, back porch and parking. Call for a tour today.

RENTAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Lincoln Realty Stephen Lincoln 2935 N Ashley St, Ste 104 Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 247-4450 all@lincolnrealtyvaldosta.com www.lincolnrealtyvaldosta.com Lincoln Realty Company is a family-owned and operated real estate brokerage specializing in Property Management, Residential Investment, and Multi-family Investment Sales. Serving Valdosta for more than 40 years!

PRE FE RRE D B U S INES S LIS TING

Coldwell Banker Premier Real Estate — Sylvia Hutton Sylvia Hutton 1108 Gornto Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 560-6647 sylviahutton@valdostarealtors.com www.sylviahutton.com My goal is to provide quality service with a smile to both Sellers and Buyers. My 30+ years of experience gives me a great insight to the homes and subdivisions in this area. Let me assist you in making your move “stress-free!”

Coldwell Banker Premier Real Estate — Minnette Suddarth Minnette Suddarth 1108 Gornto Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 560-3400 minnette@valdostarealtors.com www.minnettesuddarthrealtor.com Whether you are a first time home buyer, corporate or military relocation, or in need of a smaller or larger home, I can assist in accomplishing a successful transaction. Full-time since 2004, I am your friendly, professional, enthusiastic, meet your needs real estate agent.

RESTAURANTS

Azalea’s Restaurant & Lounge Kim Souther 1805 W HillRestaurant Ave Azalea’s & Lounge Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 244-1111 Kim Souther ksouther@hivaldosta.com 1805 West Hill Avenue www.hivaldosta.com Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 244-1111 Azalea’s features a delicious menu with ksouther@hivaldosta.com regional specialties open for breakfast and www.hivaldosta.com dinner. You will find the best hamburgers, salads, soups and desserts in town. We have Azalea’s features a delicious menu with regional specialties op a full line of mixed drinks, beer and wine. We for breakfast and dinner. You will find the best hamburgers, also do events updesserts to 250 people. 81 salads, soupsfor and in town. We have a full line of mixe

drinks, beer and wine. We also do events for up to 250 people

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Coldwell Banker Premier Real Estate — Cindy Pegg Cindy Pegg 1108 Gornto Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 244-3535 cindypegg@bellsouth.net www.cindypegg.realtor A licensed Realtor® since 1999, I am passionate about helping with all your real estate needs! Buying or selling, I go the extra mile to make sure your needs are met!

www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

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RETIREMENT HOMES

Burger King

Burger King 4464 Shiloh Rd

Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 247-6593 The original HOME OF THE WHOPPER®, 4464 Shiloh Road our commitment to quality ingredients, Valdosta, GA 31602 signature recipes, iconic sandwiches like (229) 247-6593 the flame-grilled WHOPPER® Sandwich and fast, family-friendly dining experiences in a welcoming environment. Indoor playground.

Langdale Place Jan Brice 2720 Windemere Dr Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 247-4300 jp.brice@sgmc.org www.langdaleplace.com Valdosta’s premier senior living facility, Langdale Place offers exceptional benefits for those seeking a carefree retirement experience. We also offer assisted living and memory care services.

ROOF MAINTENANCE & CLEANING

The original HOME OF THE WHOPPER®, our commitment to quality ingredients, signature recipes, iconic sandwiches like the www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com flame-grilled WHOPPER® Sandwich and fast, family-friendly dining experiences in a welcoming environment. Indoor playground. www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

P RE FE RR ED B US INE S S LIS T ING S

Dairy Queen 4598 N Valdosta Rd Dairy Queen Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 219-7772 Treat Store — DQ® restaurants are still, and always have been, the place to find kids’ sports 4598 North Valdosta Roadteams celebrating a victory, business people on their lunch break and Valdosta, GA 31601 families taking time out to enjoy great food (229) 219-7772 and soft serve treats.

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Georgia Christian School Bradford Lawson 4359 Dasher Rd Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 559-5131 blawson@georgiachristian.org www.georgiachristian.org Georgia Christian School will provide a Christian foundation that promotes a passion for learning, responsible citizens, and the skills necessary to lead through character development, spiritual guidance and excellent academic instruction.

Pyramid Roofing Company Cherie Bruce 2026 Marioh St Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 300-9983 pyramidroofingvaldosta@gmail.com Top-notch roofing, window, installation & repair services. We are a team of dedicated contractors serving the people residing in the heart of southeastern Georgia because we are in Brunswick, Kingsland, St. Mary’s and St. Simons Island.

RV PARKS

Treat Store - DQ® restaurants are still, and always have been, www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com the place to find kids' sports teams celebrating a victory, business people on their lunch break and families taking time out to enjoy great food and soft serve treats.

Wiregrass Georgia Technical College Cheryl Acree 4089 Val Tech Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 333-2100 cherylacree@wiregrass.edu www.wiregrass.edu Wiregrass Georgia Technical College exists to meet the needs of students and the community through our mission of educational and workforce development.

STEEL FABRICATORS Fabco Fabrication Inc. Nazara Robinson 311 S Forrest St Valdosta, GA 31601 .............. (229) 460-3636 naz@fabcofabricationinc.com http://fabcofabricationinc.com

STORAGE — HOUSEHOLD & COMMERCIAL 84 West Self Storage Rebecca Brice 1765 NW 3rd Way Jennings, FL 32053 .............. (229) 241-7200 info@84westselfstorage.com www.84westselfstorage.com

Open Bible Christian School Peter Smith 3992 N Oak St Ext Valdosta, GA 31605 .......... (229) 244-6694 openbible@bellsouth.net http://openbiblechristianschool.org Open Bible Christian School, established in 1971, was founded upon the teachings of God’s Word the Bible. OBCS is a ministry of Open Bible Baptist Church. Our school has classes for K3 through the 12th grade.

SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE

www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

Denny’s Restaurant Tina Spitzer 1328 N St Augustine Rd Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 253-9388 dennys6650@rremcrestaurants.com www.dennys.com Denny’s is America’s diner. This is where guests have come for over 60 years now to sit back, relax and enjoy delicious, hearty meals 24/7, every day of the year..12

Valdosta Oaks RV Park Randy & Suszanne Wiley 4630 N Valdosta Rd Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (229) 247-0494 info@valdostaoaksrv.com www.valdostaoaksrv.com We offer 95 level pull-thru sites, water, electricity (30/50 amps) & sewage hookups and nearby group meeting facilities. We also offer cable TV and wireless internet to our guests.

Jimmy Johns Brandi Shinkle 1337 Bay Tree Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .............. (229) 333-9747 jimmyjohnsvaldosta@gmail.com www.jimmyjohns.com

SCHOOLS

Texas Roadhouse Luke Boyette 1874 Clubhouse Dr Valdosta, GA 31601 .............. (229) 242-7700 store_valdosta@texasroadhouse.com www.texasroadhouse.com

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Moody Campus 3010 Robinson Rd, Bldg 328 Moody AFB, GA 31699 .......... (229) 244-9400 moody@erau.edu http://worldwide.erau.edu/locations/moody

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www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

Destiny Financial Services — A Family Heritage Life Provider Dr. Beverly ‘Eagle’ Rogers 806 E Jane St Valdosta, GA 31601 .......... (877) 300-8269 beverlyeaglerogers@gmail.com www.familyheritagelife.com Valwood School Courtney Matthews 4380 US Hwy 41 N Hahira, GA 31632 ............. (229) 242-8491 cmatthews@valwood.org www.valwood.org Valwood School, established in 1968, is an independent college preparatory school, in Hahira, Georgia, serving preschool, kindergarten, elementary, middle and high school students and families from all over the Southeast. Our academic program is based on the teaching and mastery of the foundational skills necessary for academic and personal success in college and beyond.

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The Pool Store Amy Miller-Stecz 3363 N Valdosta Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 247-6440 dstecz@msn.com www.thepoolstore.com We have everything one could want to turn your backyard from plain to paradise! Patio furniture, Playnation Playsets, D1 Spas, Big Green Egg Grills, above ground pools, toys & floats.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES

CCB Tech Group Lee McArthur 4069 Inner Perimeter Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 259-0104 lmcarthur@ccbtg.com www.ccbtg.com Our team excels at technical competence with a genuine interest in customer wellbeing. We provide installation, repair and training. We have the experience, expertise and resources to take your project from start to finish.

TRAVEL AGENCIES & BUREAUS

South Georgia Travel Jane Shelton 1300 Baytree Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 244-2324 jane@sgatravel.com www.sgatravel.com The goal of our agency is to match the travel experience, with your travel expectations. Building relationships and getting to know you, allows us to apply our travel knowledge and experience to create your personalized vacation.

TRANSPORTATION CONSULTANTS UNIVERSITIES

TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATOR Infoteck Jeffrey Wayne Radabaugh 63 Bay Meadow Dr Valdosta, GA 31602 .............. (229) 412-2820 support@infoteckpro.com http://infoteckpro.com

Southern Shipping Solutions LLC Connie Ledbetter 3470-G2 N Valdosta Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 249-0997 connie@sss4u.com www.sss4u.com We are proud to offer best-in-class service in: Less than truckload, truckload services, air freight, ocean freight, parcel shipping, logistics management, and state-of-the-art technology.

Troy University Albany Area Support Center Keith Gaines 1579 US Hwy 19 S Leesburg, GA 31763 (229) 639-0303 • f: (866) 288-2097 albany@troy.edu www.troy.edu/albany The Albany Area Support Center of TROY Online provides support and services for students and future students of Troy University throughout the Southwest Georgia area. Experience the Warrior Spirit of Troy University!

VETERINARIANS/DVM Baytree Animal Hospital Dr. Jeff Creamer 2004 Baytree Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 .......... (229) 244-5052 baytreevet@gmail.com www.valdostavet.com When you bring your pet to Baytree Animal Hospital, you can rest assured that you are in the hands of a staff that are capable and compassionate.

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WASTE REDUCTION Advanced Disposal Services (Hauling Company) Sam Jones 1101 Hawkins St Valdosta, GA 31601-7711..... (229) 244-2466 sam.jones@advanceddisposal.com www.advanceddisposal.com

PRE FE RRE D B U S INES S LIS TING

Watson’s Pools & Patios Mellisa Watson 210 N Davis St Nashville, GA 31639 ......... (229) 686-2033 watsonspoolsandpatios@windstream.net www.watsonspoolsofga.com Pool Supplies & Equipment Above Ground Pools Free Water Analysis Pool Furniture Pool Service Free Estimates

Hahira Veterinary Clinic Dr. Doug Ruff, Dr. Kelly Barrett 600 GA Hwy 122 W Hahira, GA 31632 ............. (229) 794-0040 office@hahiravet.com www.hahiravet.vetsuite.com The professional and courteous staff at Hahira Veterinary Clinic seeks to provide the best possible medical care, surgical care and dental care for their highly valued patients.

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SWIMMING POOL CONTRACTORS

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VALDOSTA-LOWNDES COUNTY

ADV ER TIS ER IN DE X

ADVERTISER INDEX

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1st Franklin Financial Corporation ..............................................23

Mr. B’s IGA ......................................................................................8

Abundant Life Church of God ......................................................70

Mudanza Moving & Cleaning ........................................................8

Air Methods ...................................................................................43

NE-RO Tire & Brake Service Inc...................................................12

Avis Valdosta .................................................................................57

New Hire Solutions .........................................................................7

Baymont Inn & Suites ...................................................................16

NEXXTEP ......................................................................................32

Blanton & Griffin Insurance Agency ............................................29

Park Place by McLane....................................................................47

Brooker Insurance .........................................................................69

PeaceWay Counseling & Meditation Services, Inc. ......................40

CBC Bank ......................................................................................33

Peach State Summer Theatre .........................................................24

CCB Tech Group ...........................................................................36

Pets At Peace by McLane ...............................................................16

Central Avenue Church of Christ .................................................71

Pleats & Creases...............................................................................8

Citizens Community Bank..............................................................6

Plumbing Service Company..........................................................62

City of Valdosta .............................................................................13

The Pool Store ................................................................................64

Coldwell Banker Premier Real Estate ...........................................53

Presbyterian Home and Retirement Community ........................42

Colony Bank ....................................................................................9

Prime Properties Services, LLC ....................................................65

Colquitt Electric Membership Corporation .................................10

PruittHealth — Lakehaven............................................................42

Commercial Cleaning Industries ..................................................44

RE/MAX of Valdosta .....................................................................67

Coombs Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. ..................................64

RealLiving Realty Advisors ....................................................... 4, 59

CuraCare Health Services .............................................................40

The Residences at Five Points ........................................................66

Deep South Sanitation ..................................................................63

S & S Woodworking .......................................................................58

Denny’s Restaurant .......................................................................27

Safe Waste Disposal .......................................................................63

Earl Copeland Garage, Inc. .............................................................4

SAFT ..............................................................................................17

Elevate Chiropractic ......................................................................40

Sands Horizon, Inc. .......................................................................68

Family Heritage .............................................................................36

South Georgia Medical Center......................................................37

First Federal Savings of Valdosta ..................................................15

South Georgia Travel.....................................................................54

The Gardens at Country Club Road .............................................61

South Georgia Vein Center ...........................................................41

Georgia Christian School ..............................................................48

Southern Builders Supply .............................................................62

Georgia Power ...............................................................................23

Southern Flooring of Valdosta ......................................................63

Hahira Veterinary Clinic...............................................................29

Southern OB/GYN ........................................................................38

Hamilton Estate Planning .............................................................45

Southern Shipping Solutions ........................................................12

The Herndon Company Real Estate ..............................................60

Spring Chase Apartments .............................................................61

Hogan’s Pharmacy .........................................................................45

Staten Crossing ................................................................................5

Holiday Inn Hotel & Conference Center ......................................21

Sunset Farm Foods, Inc. ................................................................27

Hospice of South Georgia & Langdale Hospice House ................39

Synovus ...............................................................Inside Front Cover

James H. Rainwater Conference Center ........................Back Cover

Tall Tree Apartments.......................................................................5

Joy’s Boutique & Co. ......................................................................49

Tickle Me Pink Daycare & Learning Center .................................49

Landis International......................................................................54

Troy University ..............................................................................47

Langdale Vallotton ........................................................................49

Valdosta Flying Service .................................................................55

Lee & Associates Accountants, Inc................................................32

Valdosta Regional Airport ............................................................56

Lincoln Realty Company ...............................................................68

Valdosta Symphony Orchestra ......................................................25

The Links Apartment Homes ........................................................61

Waller Heating & Air Conditioning .............................................66

Little Actor’s Theatre .....................................................................24

Watson’s Pools & Patios .................................................................51

Mediacom Communications Corporation ...................................31

Wild Adventures Theme Park .........................................................3

Michelle Alden Counseling Services.............................................44

Williams Hotel Group ...................................................................11

Miller Hardware Company ...........................................................67

Worthington Family Dentistry, P.C. ............. 45, Inside Back Cover

Moody Law Firm, LLC ..................................................................12

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Healthy smiles start at a very young age!

FREE Whitening, with Every Cleaning!

We want each of our patients to be as excited about your smile as we are. So with every cleaning and “check-up” exam, for patients 18 years and older, we offer free professional teeth whitening. Unlike many over the counter products which often cause tooth sensitivity and can even erode tooth enamel, we use a professional product, “Captivate by Nupro.” This is a long established product that uses 15% Carbamide Peroxide which is the least likely of whitening products to cause sensitivity. This product usually takes a few weeks, providing most patients a deep, rich and stable color change.

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Thank you for you and your family’s service to our country. We continually seek to better serve members of our military and their families by being a United Concordia/Tricare provider and offering military discounts.

0-1 /.2&& %!66 26%2"/ treat you with the utmost respect and compassion. We understand that dental treatment can be intimidating, and we will do our best to maintain a peaceful and relaxing environment in which to serve you

Welcome to Worthington Family Dentistry! We are committed to listening to your concerns and desires regarding your smile. Together, we will carefully plan your treatment, using state-of-the-art computer and digital imaging technology. We are a general dentistry practice; therefore, we can address all of your concerns associated with your oral health, from baby teeth to smile preservation with age.

Dr. Samuel E. Worthington, IV, DMD

3362 Greystone Way • Valdosta, GA 31605 • www.worthingtonfamilydentistry.com

Back Row: Dr. Worthington, Cindy, Tiashja, Joni Front Row: Toni, Kristi, Chelsea

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FREE Whitening, with Every Cleaning!

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Dr. Samuel E. Worthington, IV, DMD

3362 Greystone Way • Valdosta, GA 31605 • www.worthingtonfamilydentistry.com

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every patient like family!

Schedule an Appointment Today!

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Worthington Family Dentistry, P.C.

3362 Greystone Way â&#x20AC;˘ Valdosta, GA 31605

www.worthingtonfamilydentistry.com

Perfect MEETINGS with flawless finishing touches FLEXIBLE ◆ 11 meeting rooms ◆ Guest seating 100 to 1,050 ◆ Expansive pre-function area ◆ Lakeside Veranda seating up to 200

FULL SERVICE

◆ Comprehensive banquet service ◆ Bountiful options ◆ Plentiful nearby lodging choices

FUNDAMENTAL ◆ A/V service on site ◆ Complimentary broadband wireless for up to 600 users ◆ Affordable in every way

1 Meeting Place, Valdosta GA 31601 | Tel. 229.219.4405 | sroose@valdostatourism.com GAVALCW18 design.indd 86

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