Dec. 15: Valdosta Brings Cheer to Parkwood Development Center. Mayor Gayle, Fire Chief Freddie Broome and members of the Valdosta Fire Department will be delivering gifts on Tuesday, Dec. 15 to the 120 patients-ages 7 to 71-who reside at the Parkwood Development Center, as part of the Mayor's annual Holiday Gift Drive. There's still time for donations to be received for this event. Call Battalion Chief Johnny Henry at (229) 333-1836, or click here to see event flier.

Dec. 16: Last Day to Sign Greeting Cards for Military Members. Citizens are invited to sign dozens of Christmas cards available in the City Hall foyer through the end of the day, Wednesday. These holiday greeting cards will be mailed to deployed military service members through the American Red Cross Holiday Mail for Heroes Program.

Dec. 16: VFD Takes Local Youth on a "Shop with a Firefighter." Selected local youth will be out shopping with firefighters on Wednesday, at 6:30 p.m., at the Walmart Super Center, on Norman Drive. The Shop with a Firefighter program aims to brighten the holiday season for Valdosta children and their families by providing selected youth with some holiday shopping money. For more information or to donate, contact Lt. Dereck Willis at (229) 333-1835.

Dec. 17: Missed the Parade? Citizens who missed the Greater Valdosta Community Christmas Parade on Dec. 5 can view the re-airing of this wonderful community event, beginning today, twice daily-at 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.-on Metro Channel 17 (on Mediacom) throughout the remainder of December. Thanks to all who participated and made it another successful event!

Dec. 19: Mayor Welcomes the 23rd Annual Outback Riders Toy Ride. The Mayor will be making a special appearance on Saturday, Dec. 19 at the annual Toy Ride, hosted by Outback Riders, which will begin at 1:30 p.m. at the Lake Park Outlets and end at Big Lots on Ashley Street in Valdosta. Citizens are asked to donate toys at the event, which will be distributed by the Salvation Army to underprivileged children in our community. Click here to download event flier.

Dec. 19: Valdosta Youth Council Visits Seniors. Members of the Valdosta Youth Council will be delivering handmade Christmas cards and candy to seniors at local nursing homes, on Saturday, Dec. 19. Members of the recently-formed youth organization strive to development leadership skills through public service. Follow this progressive young group of leaders on Facebook at www.facebook.com/valdostayouthcouncil.