Submitted PhotoLaTosha Curry said joining the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce has been a blessing.

The entrepreneurial spirit is a gift that inspires others to become the best they can be. Celebrating the local spirit of entrepreneurship is what keeps our city fresh and growing. From passion and positivity to leadership and ambition, here is the weekly entrepreneur that best defines the entrepreneurial spirit here in Lowndes County.

LaTosha Curry: “To start my business, I had to let go of some pain in my life. In doing so I took a hobby and turned it into to my own little company. I became a member of the chamber of commerce and met Mrs. Betty Thompson and Mrs. Leslie Harris who assisted me in every way possible. Their assurance that no matter what my life had been like, or what I was dealing with, I could do this. It’s great people like them that have shown me no matter the lifestyle you may have had that you too can be someone great. Even at my lowest, sometimes I wanted to throw in the towel but the sermons of my pastor Ronnie Mathis kept me going by teaching us that God is able and to hold on to faith. Special thanks to Mrs.Clarice Brown and all who have supported and guided my vision. Our destiny is to continue to grow.”

• Originally from Cook County; a Valdosta resident 10 years

• Owner of Kreation’z & Things 

• Education: Wiregrass Georgia Technical College — technical certificates: CNA/PCA, nutrition and therapy; continuing education classes in business and nursing

• Fun fact: “I enjoy making my patients laugh on my day job, while I sing and dance. After 15 years, it’s like they’re family.”

• Curry’s Entrepreneurial Tip: “You may think you can’t do it but if you dream it, you can achieve it. No matter how small you start. Stay focused.”

Kreation’z & Thingz creates custom baskets and specialty gifts for all occasions.

Businesses are continuously opening, closing, moving and renovating in Valdosta and Lowndes County overall.

• Spirit Halloween is a seasonal chain that has Halloween & fancy dress costumes for all ages, plus accessories & decor. It is located at 1737 Gornto Road. Hours of operation are 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

• The Party Place on Bemiss at Sharper Plaza is officially open. It is located at 2151 Bemiss Road. Call (229) 251-5328 for more information.

• Wendy’s, 1609 N. Ashley St., is returning soon.

• Zacadoo’s, 1501 N. Ashley St., is remodeling inside; the drive-thru is still open.

• Smiley’s Buffet & Grill, 1015 Lake Park Boulevard, Lake Park, is open.

Send business tips to lashaunda.jordan@gaflnews.com. 

LaShaunda Jordan is a reporter with The Valdosta Daily Times. She can be contacted at (229)244-3400 ext. 1257.