Howard Holman (L) and Vidalia Mayor Doug Roper

For some people, volunteering is in their blood and so it is with the August Sweet Onion Citizen of the Month, Howard Holman. Holman was recognized Monday night at the monthly City Council meeting by Mayor Doug Roper.

“I wanted to do this several months ago, but we had to postpone it because you were sick,” Mayor Roper said. “You have been the backbone in so many projects in our community and it gives me and this Council great pleasure in honoring you.”

Holman is active in his church, Vidalia Presbyterian Church, and has served on countless local boards, civic organizations, and much more. He currently serves on the renovation committee of the local library.

Holman said community service is part of his DNA, instilled in him by his mother.

“I think it’s genetic,” he said. “I remember my mother being active in Civil Rights in the 1960’s and ‘50’s, writing letters to the editor and so much more.”

Holman was born in Maine but has lived in Vidalia since 1975.

He laughs and says, “I gave myself three years; it’s now 45 years later and here we are! Vidalia is a great community and I’d be crazy to sell my house and move back to Maine. Vidalia is my home!”