VALDOSTA —
I received an interesting response last week to my query about what people want now that the OG is finally here. Even though it was an informal request, we received dozens of responses from readers concerning the things they believe Valdosta is still lacking.
With that much response in a few days, I’d like to see if others would also like to share their opinions. If you have one, email it please to vdt.editorial@gaflnews.com
So far, Dave and Busters and pretty much anything for teens to do is leading the list, along with several restaurants and retailers that people are tired of having to drive out of town to visit.
It’s interesting to note that while many people tell me that Valdosta is just fine the way it is, an awful lot of folks appear to disagree. They want Valdosta to be a more diverse community with opportunities and a growing economy. National retailers bring additional attention to the area, which helps hotels and motels, gas stations, and other retailers to thrive.
If you’re going to dream, dream big, and there is no reason to not go after those businesses you think would be good for the local area. There are a number of individuals and entities responsible for bringing new business to Valdosta, so why not let them know what you want?
Email vdt.editorial@gaflnews.com and we will happily pass your wishes on.
Business Roundup
A longtime institution in Valdosta, Bynum’s diner on North Ashley Street, recently changed names and is now Betty’s.
No word this week on the Wedge restaurant, but Maryland Fried Chicken on North Ashley officially opened.
In the February Scene magazine, available soon, there’s a great profile of the new location for Horse Creek Winery in Sparks at Exit 41.
The main winery is located at the Perry Vineyards in Nashville and this is an extension of it, which will allow them to entice visitors off the interstate to try some great south Georgia wines. They were originally going to locate in Hahira, but this location just a few miles up the road is perfect for the winery.
The groundbreaking for the new Heritage Bank of the South location on Inner Perimeter Road was held this week on Thursday. Across town on Baytree, work is continuing on the Southwest Georgia Bank location.
Zaxby’s is really moving on St. Augustine and I’m hearing whispers of an opening around April.
Construction is supposed to begin soon on the new Fred’s on Bemiss Road near Studstill.
The new Agri-Supply on Highway 84 is opening any day now. The enormous retail facility is very popular in other areas, so should do well here in Valdosta.
Also still haven’t heard yet about the new restaurant taking Loco’s place, so I hope there’s nothing stalling the purchase. The sign still says Sale Pending, so hopefully it will be final before too long.
That’s it for this week, but if there’s something I missed, please let me know!
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