Sweet City Chat

Latest Episodes:

Back at It: Projects, Progress & What’s Next Sep 04, 2026

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Sweet City Chat is back — and there’s a lot to catch up on.

After a few months away, Zac Moore sits down with City Manager Josh Beck to talk about what’s been happening across Vidalia. They dig into the major capital projects underway, what’s coming next, where the city is investing, and what residents can expect to see taking shape in the months ahead.

We’re also recording this one from a new spot — Parlor’s new office on Meadows Street — before getting into a much bigger conversation about where Vidalia is today and where it’s headed.

Behind The Onion Festival Scenes | Billy Ragan & Heather Mean Apr 17, 2026

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It’s one of the busiest times of the year in Vidalia — and it doesn’t happen by accident.

In this episode of Sweet City Chat, we sit down with Heather Mead, Chair of the Onion Festival Committee, and Billy Reagan, Chair of the Airshow Committee, to talk about what it really takes to pull these events off.

If you’re planning to be there — or just curious how it all comes together — this one gives you a better appreciation for the people making it happen.

Get your tickets here ---> https://www.vidaliaonionfestival.com/tickets

Onion Festival Feature: A Conversation with Chef Skye Estroff Apr 03, 2026

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In this episode of Sweet City Chat, we sit down with chef and media personality Skye Estroff, this year’s featured guest for the Onion Festival cooking demo.

With family roots in Vidalia and a growing presence in the food and media world. Skye shares her journey, her connection to this community, and what she’s looking forward to as part of this year’s festival.

If you’re planning to be at Onion Festival, this is a great way to get to know the chef you’ll see on stage.

Skye's Nini on Bobby Flay

Skye’s Website <—

Buy Tickets <—

Showcasing the Sweet Onion City: Tourism, Tradition & Onion Festival Season Mar 27, 2026

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What brings people to Vidalia — and what keeps them coming back?

In this episode of Sweet City Chat, we sit down with Alexa Britton, Director of the Vidalia Convention & Visitors Bureau, to talk about how our city tells its story to the world. From the role of Visit Vidalia to the experience of the Vidalia Onion Museum, Alexa gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how tourism works in a community like ours.

We also dive into what this time of year really looks like as Onion Festival season ramps up — one of the busiest and most exciting times in Vidalia. From planning and promotion to the energy it brings into town, this episode highlights why tourism is such an important part of our local identity and economy.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident or seeing Vidalia through fresh eyes, this episode is all about what makes our city worth visiting — and worth celebrating.

In This Episode:

What the Vidalia Convention & Visitors Bureau actually does
How Visit Vidalia helps promote the city
The story and experience behind the Vidalia Onion Museum
Why tourism matters to Vidalia’s growth and identity
What's coming for the 2026 Vidalia Onion Festival season

Learn More:

Visit Vidalia: www.visitvidalia.com

City of Vidalia: www.vidaliaga.gov

About Sweet City Chat:

Sweet City Chat is the official podcast of the City of Vidalia, highlighting the people, projects, and progress shaping our community.

Credits:

Produced by Jaden banks & Hosted by Zac Moore

Driving Growth: Industry, Investment & Opportunity in Vidalia Mar 06, 2026

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In this episode of Sweet City Chat, we sit down with Michele Johnson, Executive Director of the Toombs County Development Authority and President of the Greater Vidalia Chamber of Commerce.

We talk about the growth happening across our region — from activity in the industrial park to the role of the Tax Allocation District in attracting new investment. We also explore how the Chamber and local partners are supporting entrepreneurs and building a stronger business community from the ground up.

If you’ve ever wondered how projects get off the ground and what’s shaping the future of Vidalia, this is the conversation behind it all.

Public Safety | Part 2: Inside the Vidalia Fire Department Feb 20, 2026

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In Part 2 of our Public Safety series, we sit down with Fire Chief Brian Sikes to talk about what’s happening at the Vidalia Fire Department. From a new fire station tied to recent annexation to updated trucks and equipment, we take a look at how the department is growing to better serve the community.

We also highlight the people behind the department and the role they play in keeping Vidalia safe every day — and what’s ahead for fire service in 2026.

Public Safety | Part 1: A New Era at VPD Feb 07, 2026

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In this episode of the Sweet City Chat, we sit down with Vidalia Police Chief Rob Shore as part of our Public Safety series. Nearly a year into his role, Chief Shore shares how the department has upgraded patrol vehicles, implemented new technology to improve efficiency, and strengthened partnerships with surrounding agencies.

We talk about what those improvements mean for the community, how proactive policing is shaping the department’s approach, and what’s ahead for public safety in 2026.

2026: The Year of Growth Jan 24, 2026

Show notes

Welcome to a brand-new year in the Sweet Onion City. In this first episode of 2026, we’re taking a moment to reflect on where we’ve been — and where we’re headed.

As Josh put it, 2025 was a year of steadying the ship, laying the groundwork, and gaining momentum. Now, as we step into 2026, the focus shifts to growth — smart, intentional, community-driven growth. From major infrastructure wins to new opportunities on the horizon, this episode sets the tone for a year that promises big things for Vidalia.

Growth Mode: What’s Next for Vidalia Nov 14, 2025

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In this episode of Sweet City Chat, we’re talking growth — from new annexation and infrastructure projects to the recent approval of a Tax Allocation District (TAD). These aren’t just policy updates — they’re big moves that will shape the way Vidalia develops, invests, and plans for the future. Join us as we unpack what’s happening, what it means for residents, and why it’s all pointing toward a stronger, smarter Sweet City.

Flying High | with Billy Ragan Sep 12, 2025

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In this episode of Sweet City Chat, we sit down with City Manager Josh Beck and Airport Director Billy Ragan to talk about the exciting upgrades happening at the Vidalia Regional Airport: new runway lighting, an upgraded AWOS system, and expanded jet fuel sales. We also look ahead to the return of the Vidalia Onion Festival Airshow and the airport’s growing role in Vidalia’s future. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or just curious about what’s going on behind the scenes, this episode is ready for takeoff.

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