In this episode of Sweet City Chat, we sit down with John Ladson to talk about the updates underway at Pine Crest Cemetery. From new paving and fencing to the upcoming reopening and added plats, we explore how the City of Vidalia is preserving this historic space while preparing it for generations to come. We...
In this episode of Sweet City Chat, we sit down with Vidalia City Schools Superintendent Sandy Reid just ahead of the first day of school. We talk about what’s ahead for the 2025–2026 year, the launch of the Tribe Talk Podcast, and how the new WozEd STEM curriculum is helping prepare students for the future....
In this episode of Sweet City Chat, we sit down with the director of the Vidalia Recreation Department, Scott Strickland, to look back on a standout summer season. From state championships to packed ballfields, it’s been a summer of big wins and even bigger community impact. We talk about what’s made this year so special,...
In this episode of Sweet City Chat, we’re joined by Reverend Ronald Miller, Vidalia’s newest city council member. We talk about his journey into public service, how his background in faith and leadership shapes his approach, and what he hopes to bring to the council and the community. It’s a thoughtful conversation about service, listening,...
In this episode of Sweet City Chat, we’re spotlighting the Clean Vidalia Initiative—a community-wide effort to reduce litter, raise awareness, and take pride in the place we call home. We’ll talk about what the city is doing to keep Vidalia clean, how litter impacts everything from business to quality of life, and what you can...
In this episode of Sweet City Chat, we’re sitting down with Tonya Parker, Director of the Downtown Development Authority and the Downtown Vidalia Association, to talk about the exciting work happening in the heart of our city. From the Rural Zone designation to local grant programs, Tonya shares how these tools are helping small business...
As Vidalia grows, so does the need for thoughtful planning and new places to call home. In Part 2 of our “Building a Better Vidalia” series, we’re taking a look at housing, development, and how the city is preparing for the future. From zoning and infrastructure to the challenges of growth in a small town,...
In Part 1 of this two-part series, we’re digging into the infrastructure projects happening across Vidalia—from road resurfacing and water meter upgrades to sewer improvements and beyond. We’ll break down what’s currently in motion, why it matters, and how it’s laying the groundwork for future growth. If you’ve been wondering what’s going on behind those...
Today’s episode of Sweet City Chat is dedicated to the memory of Mr. John Raymond Turner—a man whose quiet leadership and unwavering dedication helped shape the heart of our city. On the day of his funeral, we’ve set aside our originally planned episode to pause, reflect, and honor his legacy. Joined by Mayor Doug Roper...
Welcome to the very first episode of Sweet City Chat—the official podcast of The City of Vidalia. In this kickoff episode, we’re joined by Vidalia’s City Manager, Josh Beck, for a candid conversation about where we’ve been, where we’re headed, and what this podcast is all about. Josh shares insights on leadership, growth, and his...
