Some VSU students attended a tour and press conference with Mayor of Valdosta John Fretti this past Tuesday Oct. 27.

Students in VSU’s 3510 News Writing class arrived for class downtown at City Hall around 11 a.m.  

A tour of City Hall was given to students by Public Information Officer Sementha Mathews, during which she gave background information on the building and answered any questions that students had.

According to Mathews, the city is preparing to celebrate its 150th birthday, while City Hall is celebrating its 100th.

Mathews also handed students information packets about the city, including an annual report, the City Beat newsletter and a press release regarding the city’s upcoming recycling event. 

 After the tour, students were then escorted into the council chambers for a press conference with Mayor Fretti.

 Mayor Fretti gave students more information about the city’s recycling plans and explained its “Go Green” campaign.

The City of Valdosta, Keep Lowndes/ Valdosta Beautiful and other local organizations are all teaming up to host an “Electronic Recycling Event,” which is being held at Mathis City Auditorium on Nov. 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Mayor Fretti explained to students that during this event, residents and businesses will be given the opportunity to dispose of electronic devices such as personal computers, keyboards, printers, and many other electronics.

According to the press release, electronic waste is a growing problem and citizens should participate in the electronic recycling event by allowing the city to properly dispose of their obsolete electronics.

Ted Geltner, VSU journalism professor, explained how he felt about his student’s getting the opportunity to meet with the mayor and attend the tour.

“I bring them down for class because I think it’s good for young journalists to learn about the workings of the government,” Geltner said. “I think that recycling is a good topic because it is of interest to the students.”

For more information on what items will be accepted at the city’s upcoming recycling event, call the Public Works Department at 229-671-3640.