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:

Thomas E. Hightower: “My business tip is, ‘Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.’”

• Owner of Business and Benefits.

• Education: Associates of nursing, ABAC; bachelor’s in biology, Valdosta State University; pharmacy tech, Ashworth University.

• Fun fact: “I played college and semi-pro basketball.”

Business and Benefits provides supplemental benefits and business advice, as well as serve as a health-care advocate. The target market is small businesses but we offer individual insurance. For more information, call (229) 326-7086.

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

• Spirit Halloween is a seasonal chain that has Halloween and 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.

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