Inside Perry, Georgia

In this episode of the Inside Perry Podcast, we’re diving into the surprising impact tourism has on Perry’s economy and community.

Visit Perry Executive Director Anya Turpin joins us to discuss National Travel and Tourism Week and how visitors are spending millions in Perry each year, while supporting much more than hotels and restaurants.

We also talk about Perry’s growing reputation as more than just a stop along I-75, the role His...

A spring Friday in Downtown Perry has a way of slowing you down, from the glow of the lights in the trees to the energy of people enjoying the evening together. That atmosphere is exactly what makes the Historic Downtown Perry Wine Tasting such a standout event, and in this episode, we’re sharing what makes it a favorite year after year!

We're joined by Downtown Manager Alicia Hartley to walk through the full experience: how th...

We sit down with Houston County Fire Chief and EMA Director Christopher Stoner to unpack the Houston County's move from CodeRED to Houston Alerts/Perry Alerts, and how smarter technology makes Perry and Houston County safer while cutting the noise.

We walk through the RFP that led to Rave, the benefits of pairing with existing Motorola systems, and why usability is a lifesaver when you need to launch an alert from the...

Ready to turn a spark into a storefront or scale the business you already run? We sit down with Economic Development Director Holly Wharton to unveil the Perry Startup Summit, a FREE two-day event (Feb 19–20, 2026) built to give entrepreneurs real tools, real contacts, and real momentum.

We walk through how the summit evolved from Startup Week into a conference-style experience with joint sessions for shared fundamentals a...

A flock of buzzards changed our city - and gave us a reason to throw one of the most memorable New Year’s Eve parties in Georgia. We trace the surprising path from a real infrastructure headache on Perry’s water towers to a smart, humane solution and a celebration now recognized by USA Today. 

You’ll hear the true story behind the migratory route that brought vultures to our skyline, how permits and a clever decoy ended the damage, ...

A wave of new spots is changing the rhythm of daily life in Perry, and we’re mapping it corridor by corridor so you know what’s open now and what’s around the corner. From coffee and cones to craft beer and new hotel keys, the skyline isn’t the only thing shifting - your options for food, services, and experiences are growing fast.

We start on Perry Parkway, where recent openings like KidStrong, Pilates, Waffle House, Gile...

We sit down with Community Development Director, Joe Duffy, to unpack how Perry’s zoning code actually works, why it exists, and what it means for your street, your business idea, or your next home project. From the century-old origins of zoning to today’s land management ordinance, we walk through the guardrails that keep homes, shops, and industry compatible - and how those rules adapt as our community changes.

You’ll he...

Big promises are easy; durable infrastructure is harder. We sit down with Mayor Walker to unpack how Perry’s 2025 goals—many born from a 2014 strategic plan—are now taking shape across water, sewer, roads, stormwater, and parks. This is the blueprint for a city that plans decades ahead while delivering practical improvements you can feel today.

We dig into the East Perry Wastewater Treatment Facility, now about 60% complet...

A new kind of startup support just landed in Perry—and it’s designed for real life. We’re unveiling Business Blueprint, a free, self‑paced training platform that helps local entrepreneurs move from “I’ve got an idea” to “I’m open for business,” with clarity, confidence, and a direct line to our team when questions pop up.

We walk through what makes Business Blueprint different: short video modules you can finish on a lunch...

Historic Downtown Perry transforms into a vibrant hub of seasonal festivities throughout October with themed scarecrows, beer tastings, and family-friendly Halloween events!

We explore the exciting lineup of fall activities that bring the community together while showcasing the unique character and businesses of Perry.

• Scarecrow Festival runs all October featuring 37+ storybook-themed displays throughout downtown with pub...

In today’s episode, we explore the Keys to the Downtown District — a new recognition program celebrating the businesses and people who make Historic Downtown Perry thrive.

From milestone anniversaries to exciting new ventures, the Keys shine a spotlight on the heart of our community. Hear how this initiative began, what it means for Perry’s future, and how you can join us in celebrating the stories that keep downtown vibrant.

Whether...

In today’s episode, we sit down with Finance Director Mitchell Worthington to break down Perry’s annual budget process and explain where your tax dollars go.

From property tax rates to parks, public safety, and infrastructure — we’re covering what funds the services you rely on and how the City makes strategic financial decisions each year. Whether you're a long-time resident or new to Perry, this conversation will help you bet...

In today’s episode, we sit down with Perry Leisure Services Director Curtis Coates III to talk about the 7th Annual Special Needs Community Egg Hunt!

This inclusive event provides a welcoming space for individuals of all abilities to celebrate the season with crafts, games, and a variety of egg hunts tailored to different needs.

Event Information:

Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Rozar Park – 1060 Keith...

In today's episode, we sit down with Economic Development Director Holly Wharton to discuss Perry's new Business Blueprint tool!

Whether you’re starting a new business or looking to grow, the City of Perry now offers this FREE resource to help you navigate the process. This program provides the tools and information you need to start, expand, or diversify your business with confidence.

Register for the Business Blueprint he...

Perry Startup Week 2025 is almost here, and it's all about igniting innovation, supporting entrepreneurs, and building a stronger business community! 

In this episode of the Inside Perry Podcast, we sit down with Holly Wharton, Perry’s Economic Development Director, and Alicia Hartley, Downtown Manager, to discuss how Perry Startup Week fosters entrepreneurship, promotes collaboration and networking, and offers valuab...

The City of Perry is shaping its vision for a successful and impactful 2025.

In this episode, Mayor Randall Walker shares the City's top goals and key initiatives planned for the year ahead.

Learn more about Mayor and City Council, including a calendar of public meetings,  by visiting the City's website.

If you like Inside Perry - subscribe and share the podcast with friends and family. The podcast is available on ...

How is a buzzard connected to Perry, Georgia?! 

This episode reveals how the buzzard became a cherished symbol of Perry's nationally-recognized New Year's Eve Celebration. 

Learn More: https://perry-ga.gov/buzzard-drop

#WhereGeorgiaComesTogether

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Perry, Georgia, is turning 200 years old in 2024, and we're celebrating all year long!

In today's episode, Mrs. Ellie Loudermilk, President of the Perry Area Historical Society & Museum, shares interesting trivia facts about Perry, Georgia, to conclude the 200th birthday celebration on the Inside Perry Podcast!

For more information about the year-long celebration, visit www.perry-ga.gov/200.

If you like Inside ...

Join us in this festive episode as we explore the magical holiday events happening in Historic Downtown Perry. From the twinkling lights to finding the perfect holiday gift, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to make the most of the season.

Whether you’re a local or visiting for the holidays, this episode will inspire you to create unforgettable memories in Downtown Perry this Christmas. Let the season of joy begin!...