Dec. 16: CVDA Meets. The Central Valdosta Development Authority (CVDA) will meet Tuesday, Dec. 16, at 5 p.m., in the Valdosta City Hall Annex Multi-Purpose Room. The CVDA manages the process of enhancing downtown's position as the governmental, cultural and economic center of the Greater Lowndes County area. For more information, call (229) 259-3577.

Dec. 16: Shop with a Firefighter. The Valdosta Fire Department has identified a dozen children who will participate in the Shop with a Firefighter program on Tuesday, Dec. 16, at 7 p.m., at the Wal-Mart Supercenter located at 340 Norman Drive. The VFD thanks all who have donated to the success of the event. Call the VFD at (229) 333-1836 for more information.

Dec. 20: Mayor Participates in Annual Toy Ride. Mayor John Gayle will make a special appearance at the annual Toy Ride hosted by Outback Riders. This year's ride will take place on Saturday, Dec. 20, beginning at 1:30 p.m. at the Lake Park Outlets and ending at Big Lots on Ashley Street in Valdosta. Citizens are invited to donate toys at the event. Toys will be distributed by the Salvation Army to underprivileged children in our community. For more information about this event, contact the Outback Riders at (229) 460-2521 or (229) 561-7125.