The quality of life in Valdosta, Lowndes County is second to none. At first glance one might think this is your typical laid back South Georgia town but upon visiting Valdosta, you will soon discover just under the surface is a booming metropolitan area with all of the amenities of a large town an and all of the quality of a small town. You might say the best of both worlds: the Valdosta Symphony, Theatre Guild Valdosta, Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts, numerous parks and athletic programs as well as hunting, fishing and a calendar of community oriented events. One of the highlights of Valdosta is Wild Adventures Theme Park, one of the fastest growing theme parks in the United States. Valdosta has worked hard to maintain the integrity of its rich history and superb quality if life while undergoing the growth it has experience over the past ten years..jpg)
• PARKS & RECREATION
The community formed the Parks and Recreation Department in 1972 to serve a variety of recreation, facility, cultural, and open space needs in the community including athletic programs for youth and adults, special programs for the mentally and physically disabled, active programs for senior adults, instructional classes, special concerts, and cemetery services. The department has grown from its meager beginnings to a present staff of 52 full-time employees and over 200 seasonal part-time employees. Due to tremendous growth in both Valdosta and Lowndes County, the city and county governments considered the consolidation of the development of parks and recreation facilities and program operation with the implementation of House Bill 489. The expectations of citizens in the county for having the availability of these services along with the willingness of county elected officials to provide them have led to this joint effort.
Neighborhood parks are located within or adjacent to neighborhoods and take on the character of the surrounding area. Sixty percent of the residents of Valdosta live within a quarter mile of a park. Primary access is achieved by walking or bike riding. Neighborhood parks provide opportunities for casual play. However, they can also accommodate special programs for a short duration. There is a balance of active and passive recreation opportunities. Facilities include playgrounds, multi-purpose courts/fields, tennis courts, landscaped sitting areas, recreation buildings, and picnic areas.
Urban open spaces and memorials are generally small landscaped or natural sites located within developed areas. Primary functions include buffering, stormwater retention, wildlife habitat, or visual relief. Examples of urban open spaces include pocket-parks, landscaped medians, parkways, traffic circles and cemeteries. Facilities at these sites may include trails, walks, benches, gardens, or memorials.
Access to community parks can be by walking, biking, but more often occurs by car. They are usually located near major collector streets or arterial roads and serve the needs of several neighborhoods. They are typically more intensely developed than neighborhood parks and tend to be more actively-oriented. Facilities may include athletic fields, swimming pools, multi-purpose fields, and recreation centers. Natural areas are incorporated to provide biking, fitness, picnicking, and open space activities.
The number of park users has also shown a significant increase during the past decade. As the population of Valdosta and Lowndes grows, so does the need for more programs in both number and diversity. The goal of Valdosta-Lowndes Recreation, Parks and Community Affairs Department is to meet the leisure needs of our customers.
Major Parks & Facilities
Enjoy one of the major parks or facilities located throughout the City of Valdosta and Lowndes County. Each offers its own unique features. Some are used solely for exclusive programming, but many of our major parks and facilities are for rent. Please call the PRCA office for further information at (229)259-3507.
Mathis Auditorium
The J.E. Mathis Municipal Auditorium, operated by the Valdosta-Lowndes Recreation, Parks and Community Affairs Department, is the site of local plays, choral presentations, and public meetings, as well as traveling events such as the Atlanta Symphony and popular concerts. The facility is approximately 30, 000 square feet; the auditorium seats 1,206 and the 5,000 square foot multi-purpose room has a full commercial kitchen. The auditorium offers a state-of-the-art sound system and an upgraded lighting system throughout the entire building. The multi-purpose room is equipped with theme lighting, lowered ceilings, and a kitchen and is available for rental. Tables and chairs are included in the rental agreement. For specific program reservations or further questions, please contact the Auditorium Manager at (229) 333-1816.
Rental Facilities
If you are looking for a facility to hold a wedding reception, business meeting, family reunion, anniversary, and more, then look into the Valdosta-Lowndes County Recreation, Parks and Community Affairs rental facilities. Our facilities can accommodate small to large gatherings, with kitchen usage available. Tables and chairs are also provided with the rental. These facilities are rented for a fee. The fee includes a deposit required at the time the contract is signed, a base fee, and a clean-up fee. Reservations are taken in advance. The facilities available for rental are: Jaycee Park, 2306 Jaycee Shack Road, and Craig Center, 1104 W. Gordon Street.
Citizens may also want to consider a picnic shelter as a convenient place to host their next gathering. They are affordable and provide families with playground equipment to entertain children in an outdoor environment. Shelters are located at: McKey Park, Scott Park, Barber Park, Greer Park, and Levi Strauss Park. Reservations are taken on a first come, first serve basis. Some facilities do require a deposit.
For further information on rental facilities or picnic shelters, please contact the PRCA office at (229) 259-3507
The Showmobile
For further information regarding availability, fees, and setup arrangements, please contact the Showmobile at (229) 259-3507
Volunteer Opportunities
Do you like to volunteer your time? If so, the Valdosta-Lowndes County Recreation, Parks and Community Affairs Department has the right opportunity for you. Throughout the year, our volunteers diligently serve our patrons at events such as the Tree City 5K Roadrace, the Annual Easter Egg Hunt, Special Olympics, Golden Olympics, and many other great events. Our volunteers are greatly appreciated, and we can always use more. Call (229) 259-3507 today and find out about our upcoming volunteer opportunities. Volunteers make our programs a success!
Tree Commission/Arborist
The Valdosta Tree Commission is operated by the Valdosta-Lowndes County Recreation, Parks and Community Affairs Department. The Department's Arborist works in conjunction with the commission in planning, maintaining, and protecting trees along streets, in parks, and on other private property as well as enforces the city's landscape ordinance in conjunction with the Inspections Department.
Any questions regarding various ordinances should be directed to the Arborist. Programs offered under the Tree Commission include the Arboreal Awards memorial/honorary tree planting program, Arbor Day Tree Planting, educational programs, and the Christmas Tree Recycling Program. The Valdosta Tree Commission also has an Adopt-a-Park program. For more information on this program, contact Arborist Frank Jenner at (229) 333-1822.
CEMETARY
Sunset Hill Cemetery is a municipally-owned facility situated on 75 gently rolling, tree-filled acres in central Valdosta. Originally deeded in the 1860's, the cemetery has local historic value and offers a complete list of services. Many roads within the cemetery are paved, allowing for easy access to gravesites. For information regarding policies, fees, care, and gravesites, please contact the Cemetery Supervisor at (229) 333-1815.
Neighborhood Parks
Looking for a quiet place outdoors? Neighborhood parks are located throughout the city. Citizens can enjoy the outdoors in a park atmosphere while taking advantage of the playground equipment and picnic facilities.
Facilities and Parks Locations - http://valdostacity.com/Index.aspx?page=151 & http://www.lowndescounty.com/dpt_content.asp?id=47&pid=12
After School Program
The Valdosta-Lowndes County Parks, Recreation, and Community Affairs Department, in conjunction with the City of Valdosta Schools, sponsors the After School Program. This exciting program guarantees a fun-filled year of after school activities for school age children.
• The After School Program is designed to provide quality, age-appropriate recreation and leisure activities for school-age children of working parents and for children whose parents are attending school. Children age 4-12 are eligible. The program is structured to give parents peace of mind, knowing their child is in a quality after school program in a safe surrounding.
• Children will experience active and passive activities in a positive environment. The schedule, developed by the site supervisor, includes time for homework, snacks, inside and outside recreational activities, group games, art, music, drama, crafts, and special guests.
• The program is currently in operation at five schools located in the City of Valdosta. The schools are: W.G. Nunn Elementary, West Gordon Elementary, S.L. Mason Elementary, Sallas Mahone Elementary, and Southeast Elementary. Students do not have to be enrolled at the particular school where the program takes place.
• The After School Program operates the same 180 days that the area public schools are in session. The program runs from the close of school until 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with the exception of school holidays.
• The program cost is set on a flat fee payment schedule. All participants will be charged the fee of $20 per child, per week.
• Please contact the After School Program office at 333-1817. Registration forms can be obtained from the After School Program staff at each school.
Senior Citizens Program
The Senior Citizens Program, offered to citizens ages 55 and older, is held at the Senior Citizens Center located at 1360 East Park Avenue. Programs offered range from leisure activities such as arts and crafts and bridge clubs, to more athletic programs such as aerobics, bowling, bingo, line dancing, and Tai Chi classes. All senior citizens are welcome to join the self-supporting Travel Club. The Travel Club enjoys trips that range from one-day excursions to cruises and tours overseas.
The Golden Olympics, offered in May, allows seniors to compete in events such as bowling, horseshoes, checkers, and a number of throwing and walking events. The winner of each event qualifies for the state Golden Olympics held in October.
Seasonal holiday events are coordinated throughout the year and include dinners, friendship luncheons, and social events. A monthly calendar of events providing additional information on dates and times of specific programs is available. Interested parties may request the calendar by mailing their name, address, and telephone number to: P.O. Box 1746, Valdosta, GA 31603, Attn: Senior Citizen Coordinator. For more information, contact the Senior Citizen Coordinator at (229) 259-5469.
Therapeutics
The Therapeutics Division is designed specifically for the mentally and physically disabled population in the community. The Therapeutics Division provides recreational, social and leisure programs. Assistance is provided in aiding the participants and their families in understanding their capabilities and limitations in relation to participation in activities.
Programs are instituted on a seasonal basis and are organized and directed by a qualified and trained staff. These programs include leisure activities such as arts, crafts, and cooking classes, as well as recreational activities such as instructional classes in physical education, exercise, and swimming. Participants also have the opportunity to compete in Special Olympics. Special Olympics is held twice a year and includes a variety of competitive events.
The Therapeutics Division also offers The Young Adult Club. The Young Adult Club is designed to meet the social and recreational needs of the mentally and physically disabled citizens in this age group. A wide array of exciting events includes dances and social gatherings, movies, and out-of-town field trips. The Young Adult Club is an excellent program, offering friendship and social interaction to the participants.
The Therapeutics Division's summer program is Camp Adventure, a six-week summer day camp available to school age children. This day camp is specifically designed to meet the needs of mentally and physically disabled children. For more information on the program or to volunteer, contact the Therapeutic Division at (229) 333-1861.
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• Nationally Acclaimed ESPN’s TitleTown USA
Press Release
Valdosta named ESPN's "TitleTown USA"
Monday, July 28, 2008 Contact: Office of Communications 404-651-7774
ATLANTA – Governor Sonny Perdue today congratulated the city of Valdosta on being selected as ESPN’s “TitleTown USA.”
“While we all know of Valdosta’s football reputation, this contest also showed the city’s tremendous sense of community spirit and pride,” Governor Perdue said. “From the massive turnout at the ESPN taping to the wide margin of victory in the winning vote, it was clear that Valdosta would be as tough to beat in this competition as their teams are on the football field.”
“TitleTown USA” was a month-long competition on ESPN’s flagship show, “SportsCenter.” Sports fans from around the nation submitted nominations for what they considered to be “TitleTown USA” and voted on which town or city they felt best deserved this distinction. Out of more than 3,000 different applicants, 20 finalists were chosen. Valdosta, one of the smaller cities up for the award and the only city from the state of Georgia, competed against major U.S. cities such as Los Angeles, New York, Boston and Detroit.
“This award truly represents the heart and soul of this great community,” said Valdosta Mayor John J. Fretti. “The excitement and unity shown for this effort proves that the Winnersville spirit transcends all aspects of our community. Valdosta will make our community, the state, and the nation proud!”
Valdosta is known throughout the region as “Winnersville USA.” This nickname has come about over the course of the past century as schools in Valdosta have won an unprecedented amount of championships. In all, Valdosta schools have won more than 450 titles. These titles have ranged across the spectrum of sports and at different levels of competition. It is, however, the football field that truly has set Valdosta apart from the rest of the nation.
Valdosta is home to Valdosta High School, which has won 23 state championships, 40 region championships and 6 national titles over the past 86 years on course to becoming the nation’s winningest high school football team with win percentage of over 80 percent.
Lowndes High School has also shined on the football field having won 5 state titles, including 3 out of the last 4 state AAAAA titles.
Valdosta’s domination on the grid iron has also taken place at the collegiate level. Valdosta State University has established itself as one of the top college football programs in the country having won two Division II National Championships in the past 4 years.
Just this year, Lowndes High School won the football state championship, Valdosta State University won the national championship and Valdosta native J.D. Drew was named the Most Valuable Player of the Major League Baseball All-Star Game.
VALDOSTA IS TITLETOWN USA
VALDOSTA - Ballots were cast, votes are in and ESPN announced to the nation that Valdosta is TitleTown USA during tonight's 6 p.m. "SportsCenter" broadcast.
Local officials received word on Saturday that ESPN reporter Wendi Nix and production crew would return to Winnersville to film a segment for tonight's broadcast. Jessie Tuggle, VSU alumnus and former linebacker with the Atlanta Falcons, accepted the TitleTown USA trophy on behalf of the entire community. Lt. Governor Casey Cagle was on site to congratulate the city and a crowd of many fans, all dressed in the colors supporting their favorite schools, cheered as ESPN presented the honor.
The award comes after the July 16 "SportsCenter" broadcast, which featured Winnersville as a finalist and showcased thousands of local sports fans displaying the unity and spirit that won the title. Local legend Randall Godfrey made his case for why Valdosta could stand proudly as a finalist beside major cities like Chicago, Detroit and San Francisco, as well as why the southern powerhouse deserved the title. After the nation witnessed Valdosta's attributes and spirit, votes were cast, setting Valdosta above the rest.
ESPN names Valdosta TitleTown USA
By Todd Holcomb | Monday, July 28, 2008, 11:36 AM
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
For years, it’s been called Winnersville. Now, the south Georgia town of Valdosta has another name: TitleTown USA, thanks to ESPN.
The cable sports network declared Valdosta the winner of its summer promotion that earlier this month featured the city as one of its 20 finalists for the national award.
Other cities in the running ranged from small town to metropolitan city. It included Boston; Green Bay, Wisc.; and Williamsport, Pa.
The only other cities driven mostly by its high school sports tradition was Massillon, Ohio., and Parkersburg, W.V.
The cities were encouraged to offer evidence of championships at all levels and sports.
The 20 finalists were visited by film crews and highlighted on ESPN, and the winner was determined by online voting July 23-27.
The trophy ceremony was filmed July 28 at Valdosta High School’s Bazemore-Hyder Stadium and Valdosta was officially announced the winner on “SportsCenter’ later that evening.
According to the Valdosta Daily Times, Valdosta High School has won 116 region and state championships, a large chunk of them in football. The Wildcats football team is the nation’s all-time winningest program and has 23 state championships.
Lowndes High, the 2007 Class AAAAA football champion, has 94 titles, and Valwood, a private school, has 55. Valdosta State University has won another 40 titles, including the Division II national
GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Valdosta is TitleTown USA
GFP Note: Kudos to Valdosta and to Valdosta State!
Ballots were cast, votes are in and ESPN announced to the nation that Valdosta is TitleTown USA during the July 28 "SportsCenter" broadcast.
Local officials received word on Saturday that ESPN reporter Wendi Nix and production crew would return to Winnersville to film a segment for the broadcast. Jessie Tuggle, VSU alumnus and former linebacker with the Atlanta Falcons, accepted the TitleTown USA trophy on behalf of the entire community. Lt. Governor Casey Cagle was on site to congratulate the city and a crowd of many fans, all dressed in the colors supporting their favorite schools, cheered as ESPN presented the honor.
The award comes after the July 16 "SportsCenter" broadcast, which featured Winnersville as a finalist and showcased thousands of local sports fans displaying the unity and spirit that won the title. Local legend Randall Godfrey made his case for why Valdosta could stand proudly as a finalist beside major cities like Chicago, Detroit and San Francisco, as well as why the southern powerhouse deserved the title. After the nation witnessed Valdosta's attributes and spirit, votes were cast, setting Valdosta above the rest.
SPORTS
Facilities and Programs
Adult Athletics
The Adult Athletic Division is managed on a seasonal calendar. Sports offered to adults include fall, spring, and summer softball, basketball, and volleyball and year-round tennis. All sports, with the exception of tennis, are divided into divisions according to age or level of athletic ability and include programs for men and women. Information for seasonal starting dates, team registration requirements, or specific divisions is available. Certain restrictions do apply for team registration, and deadlines are instituted for all sports. For further information, please call (229) 333-1853. 
Tennis
Tennis is offered throughout the year for adults and children on any of the 15 courts located throughout the City of Valdosta. The tennis programs consist of individual or group lessons, tennis clinics, leagues, and tournaments. The Tennis Center is located at the McKey Park facility. For additional information on specific tennis programs, call (229) 333-1868.
Golf
Youth Programs
Youth sporting activities are arranged according to a seasonal calendar and available at the Vallotton Youth Complex, as well as at the Pinevale Youth Center. Seasonal sports include: basketball, baseball, T-ball, football, soccer, cheerleading, and softball. For additional information on registration guidelines, specific age categories, and seasonal program dates, please call the Pinevale Youth Center at 333-1842, or the Vallotton Youth Complex at 333-1853.
The Valdosta Lowndes County Sports commission provides support to local and area sporting events by giving guidance & advice on all phases of planning, executing & evaluating an event.
Sports Facilities Guide
Valdosta has the facilities to accommodate your favorite sport, whether its archery, wrestling, football, golf or anything in between. Here is a list of facilities.
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•ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Wild Adventures Theme Park
Discover the most rides of any park in the south, including nine coaters and thrills for all ages. Venture into gallons of refreshing fun at Splash Island Water Park. Come face to face with over 500 wild animals in their natural habitats. For a park schedule go to their website. http://www.wildadventures.net/
The Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts
229.247.ARTS
527 N. Patterson St.
The Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts offers rotating exhibits of works by local, regional, and national artists; rotating exhibits of children's art; and exhibits of pieces from its permanent collection of East African arts and Meissen porcelain. Call for more information or visit their website. http://www.turnercenter.org/
Theatre Guild Valdosta
112 N. Ashley St.
Produces plays of the season in the Dosta Playhouse in downtown Valdosta. Visit their website. http://www.theatreguildvaldosta.com/
Valdosta Symphony Orchestra
229.333.2149
1500 N. Patterson St. - Whitehead Auditorium
Four concert are presented annually from November through May by this group comprised of VSU faculty and community members. Visit their website. http://www.valdostasymphony.org/
VSU Fine Arts Gallery
1500 N. Patterson St. - Fine Arts Building
229.333.5832
Open to the Public and offers frequent exhibits
VSU Music Department
229.333.5804
1500 N. Patterson - Fine Arts Building
Year-round performances include a jazz ensemble, steel drum band, faculty string quartet, wind ensemble, percussion ensemble, and the chamber singers, along with a piano festival and solo, duet and trio performances. Visit their website. http://www.valdosta.edu/music/
Valdosta Choral Guild
A community choral group that was organized as a non-profit organization in the 1970's. Valdosta Choral Guildsings two programs a year, a Christmas program in early December and a spring concert. The Christmas concert often has one classical piece and Christmas songs from around the world. The spring concert is likely to have just about anything. Visit their website. http://www.valdostachoralguild.com/
Peach State Summer Theatre
Designated as "The State Musical Theatre of Georgia." For more information please call 229.259.7770 or visit their website. http://www.valdosta.edu/psst/
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SHOPPING
Shopping is one of Valdosta's favorite attractions! The city's flourishing retail market has brought diversity and flair to shopping areas. Several experiences await you... from quaint historic Remerton and downtown to factory direct outlet stores and the Colonial Mall, Valdosta is sure to please. Take a stroll through historic downtown Valdosta x96 considered one of the more lovely towns in Georgia x96 and drop into the specialty shops and stores that overlook its palm tree-lined streets. Indeed, many towns and cities could learn a thing or two from Valdosta, which rediscovered its downtown area back in the mid-80s and was one of the first cities to embrace the national Main Street revitalization program. After dropping into shops and making a few buys, take a break at one of the street-side eateries, which help make this quaint Southern town such a charming destination.
South Georgia Pecan Gift Shop
Hwy 84 East, Downtown Valdosta.
Take a delicious Valdosta souvenir home with you! The gift shop offers a wide selection of gift baskets, fresh nuts, syrups and much more. 1-800-627-6630 or visit their web site.
Summit Pointe
One of the finest shopping centers in the South Georgia Area that boasts businesses such as Steel's Jewelry, The Children's Shop, Two Friends Cafe', Perfect Setting, Kay Fuller Antiques & Interiors, Executive Travel, Edward Jones, Waller Investments, and Progressive Insurance, just to name a few. Summit Pointe is conveniently located in North Valdosta and can be accessed from Inner Perimeter Rd. and North Valdosta Rd.
Downtown
403 East Hill Ave., Hwy 84, or I-75 (Exit 16)
Those who have discovered downtown Valdosta know that it offers a wealth of unique shopping experiences, convenient access to the city and county government, live theatre productions and a multitude of cafes and fine dining restaurants. Downtown Valdosta offers full line salon and spa services, art and framing services, fine gifts, stylish jewelry, hand dipped chocolates, wedding gowns, professional photography, trendy clothing shops, and more. Find out More.
Remerton Mill Village
I-75 (Exit 18), Gornto to Baytree Road.
The quaint shops of Remerton Mill Village will provide you with a shopping experience you won't forget! Restored mill houses have found new life as specialty shops and services. Antiques, collectibles, crafts, pottery, a sweet shoppe, restaurants and unusual gifts await you in Remerton.
Charleston Place
I-75 (Exit 18), Gornto Road
This new "Charleston" style building houses three distinctive shops. Only Options, a women's fine clothing store, is accompanied by The Toy Box and Kids' Stuff, exclusive carriers of top brand names in children's toys and clothing.
Country Cobbler
I-75 (Exit 18), Gornto Road
Every shoe lover's dream! From Steve Madden to the complete line of Brighton shoes and accessories, the Country Cobbler carries the finest and largest selection of women's and men's shoes in South Georgia.
Just Off Main
I-75 (Exit 22), Hahira
A fine selection of antiques and vintage collectibles beautifully displayed in a restored house in the heart of Hahira. Owned and operated by locals, this is one antique store you won't want to miss. 229.794.1118
Colonial Mall Valdosta
I-75 (Exit 18), Valdosta Mall features more than 70 retailers, a full food court, and three sit-down restaurants and is anchored by Belks, JC Penney, and Sears. Visit shopvaldostamall.com for a complete mall directory and listing of services 229.242.0457
Preferred Outlets at Lake Park
Ideally situated off I-75, Preferred Outlets at Lake Park, features your favorite brands 20-70% off everyday. Gap, Carters, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, Liz Claiborne, West Point Home and more. Open Monday-Saturday 9am-8pm, Sunday 10am-6pm 229.559.6822 or visit their web site
In 2008 the Valdosta-Lowndes County Sports Authority was formed to better serve the community as it grows.
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