Southern | Civil

Residents of Gastonia, NC are Scratching Their Heads

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 19:38:00 +0000

Residents Just Outside of Gastonia, in Mount Holly, Can't Explain the Thunderous Noise.... Story Here.

Christmas Songs of The South

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 05 Dec 2016 23:15:00 +0000

Christmas Songs by bands of The South

You can't have a Christmas Time without Christmas songs. Everywhere you go during this time of year you hear them and, often, they stick in your head and eventually drive you crazy if you're not particularly a fan of that song. But, everyone has their favorites and many of those songs have been written or performed by Southerners. Here are a few of the best Southern Christmas songs.

Alabama - Christmas in Dixie

This song is heartwarming, but it projects a bit of a lonely feeling that stirs mixed emotions. The mood is of one who, perhaps, isn't with his family this Christmas and has a long way to go. With the leaves off the trees and the everyone staying inside all the time, wintertime already has a slightly depressing aura surrounding it and this tune really highlights it. However, if you are lucky enough to be with your loved ones on Christmas and are possibly drinking some wine or eggnog or Irish Coffee then I could see this song really making you feel all fuzzy inside.

James Brown - Soulful Christmas

Not going to have the blues with this funky tune! The only things that makes this song feel like a Christmas song is that he mentions Christmas. Otherwise, it feels like a 1970s Saturday night boogie tune. Play this at any Christmas party and, assuming you're not with a bunch of squares, most of the room is going to get up and dance.

Hootie & The Blowfish - The Christmas Song

Originally performed by Nat King Cole, this is a classic tune that many of us, probably, think of by another name altogether. It was first released in 1947, but Hootie & The Blowfish do a fine rendition below in their typical, affable style.

Tom Petty - Christmas All Over Again

Another great tune for a Holiday Party! Jingle bells in the background, big drums, harmonies and an overall happy mood. The lyrics are filled with nostalgia, humor, and true to form to the Christmas spirit - speaking of toys, elated kids, long-distance relatives, mama getting her shopping done, and that special someone under the mistletoe. Tom Petty's subtle voice goes right along with the jovial vibe. It makes you want to dance, but one could be perfectly at ease standing in corner, bobbing your head and sipping a gut warming libation.

Many may not know it, but Tom Petty was born and raised in Gainesville, Florida, which, unlike South Florida, is still The South.

The Avett Brothers - Away In A Manger

A sweet rendition of a classic that even will your granny will enjoy. I remember hearing Away In A Manger around Christmas time for as far back as my memory goes, near 'bout. Being that the performance below takes place in Washington, D.C. I a little surprised that they were even allowed to mention Jesus with the hypersensitivity going around these days. These North Carolina boys do a fine job on this one. It almost sounds like an old timey church hymnal tune by some settlers in the 19th century.

Band of the Week: Blood On The Harp

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 21 Oct 2016 02:15:00 +0000

Blood on the Harp

A fiddle, a stand up bass, acoustic guitars, keys - Blood on the Harp states simply that their rustic mountain music tunes are about death. I can imagine that this time of year is when they feel most inspired--the coming dreary days, the falling leaves and the general spookiness in the air - their tunes are in no way upbeat, but they do project an rosy somber vibe with their spot on harmonies and matter of fact stories concerning the ill-fated. There is a noticeable Irish Folk music influence within the core of their tunes, but, also touches of vintage country and a sort of gloomy Bluegrass.

They played a show last week 10/13/16 at the Star Bar in Atlanta but, regretfully, I missed it. I will update as soon I get word of their next show. In the meantime, you can download their debut album on here.

Fall 2016 Light Jackets

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 23 Sep 2016 01:13:00 +0000

In the South, we're lucky to not have to deal with bitter cold, usually, 'til 'round January. Unless you live up on top of a mountain, you don't need a heavy coat for the latter part of the year. Below are just a few ideas to keep the crisp autumn breeze from making it's way completely to your bones and, ideally, making you look good at the same time.

SOUTHERN TIDE - Maritime Jacket

Southern Tide was started by a native Southerner who saw a gap in the marketplace for Southern Style. They're based out of Greenville, South Carolina. In the tradition of fifteenth century sailors, this wax coated cotton jacket has a corduroy collar and hound's-tooth cotton interior to keep you dry, and warm. And the navy blue color will go great with 'most everything, except maybe black slacks.

Southern Tide - Altitude Down Vest

Another classy vesture by Southern Tide--Can't go wrong with this light Down-Filled vest over a nice flannel while attending a football game or an rambling through a corn maze. I might suggest a big less typical flannel though - perhaps this one or this one? It even has zippered hand warmer pockets and elastic cuffs to keep in heat.

GAP - ColdControl Lite Stretch Colorblock Puffer Jacket

Modernly masculine and straight to the point. The Colorblock Puffer Jacket is made with quilted stretch weave with contrast lining to keep you extra comfortable and free to move about. The zippered front with a storm flap will keep out the wind and keep you nice and toasty no doubt on a hike up a mountain with the chick you just matched with on Bumble, if she ever sends you a message.

BILLY REID - Clayton Jacket

Billy Reid clothing is based out of none other than Florence, Alabama. Their clothes can be found from New York to Atlanta to Chicago to Washington, D.C. Offering clean lines, no-nonsense, made from selvage denim (old-fashioned weaving technique), this 'blue-jean" jacket goes as well over top a t-shirt on a run to the market as it does with a nice flannel at an office party, or even picking apples somewhere in Appalachia.

AMERICAN APPAREL - Denim Sherpa Jacket

If you're into the over-caffeinated all night trucker look then this is the Jacket for you. It'd probably look a lot better on the guy in the picture if he wasn't wearing those shapeless pants and white tennis shoes, but you get the idea. You need to haul a load of pecans from Macon to Texarkana overnight in November and the heater in your Kenworth ain't functional - then this American made j
acket is right up your alley. I might even try it with over a grey T, some light colored blue jeans and some brown boots.

Photo Album - June/July 2016

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 00:27:00 +0000

Just a few images taken over the course of a couple months around the Southeastern United States.

Northwest Georgia

This picture doesn't do it justice, but this photo was taken from in an unincorporated area of Chattooga county, Georgia called Taylor Ridge. Taylor Ridge, named after Cherokee Indian chief Richard Taylor, runs roughly forty miles through Northwest Georgia and is composed of sandstone on one side and hard chert on the other - leading to differing types of flora on either side of the mountain.

Coming south from Chattooga county, and just inside Floyd county, if one veers from the beaten path of Highway 27 you'll find yourself in the rustic countryside of Armuchee (pronounced Armurchee by the locals) and Johns Mountain Wildlife Management Area. Sparsely populated and no signs on the main highway advertising hiking or camping or the like it is an area filled with barns, creeks that at least appear they'd be good for tubing or kayaking, quaint churches and rolling hills, leading up to small mountain peaks that bear resemblance to the taller and more vast Smokies further to the east. There are also multiple hiking opportunities in the area, mostly accessed by the Pinhoti Trail including Horn Mountain, Rocky Face, Dick's Ridge, Taylor Ride, and Little Sand Mountain.

Pisgah National Forest

The expanse of forest just an hour or so north of Asheville, North Carolina is not only much cooler than the sweltering rest of the South during the summer months, but it also has a feeling of somewhere where you can go and live and you'd never need a smartphone, or internet period. I'm sure most folks in this region have internet, but with mountains and streams and hiking and farmland all around it'd be easy to get lost in another time.

The water was just right for wading and swimming around in and jumping off the numerous giant boulders into.

Mount Mitchell is the highest peak mainland Eastern North America.

Monroe, Georgia

Monroe, Georgia is somewhat of an exurb of Atlanta, but Atlanta's influence is minimal as the town still feels very much like Mayberry. The downtown area has been revitalized and has restaurants and shop that are worth making the hour or so trek from Atlanta to visit one evening on the weekend.

Summer Festivals Around The South

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 02 Jun 2016 15:46:00 +0000

Liver Mush Festival - Marion, NC

June 3

I had liver mush once. It was in the general area this festival was taking place. I'd spent a couple days in Asheville, NC and was driving back home and stopped at a roadside diner to get some breakfast and liver mush was on the menu and, of course, I had to try it. The taste is nothing really out of the ordinary. It is rich and greasy and has a flavor not unlike regular ol' patty sausage, which is common across The South. One could also say it has a flavor resembling blood sausage or, perhaps, even a light in texture meatloaf. It was pretty good.

This festival takes place in beautiful Marion, NC and celebrates the conglomeration of different pig parts and cornmeal with such events as Best Dressed Pig contest, a Liver much sandwich eating contest, a Pig Calling contest, live music and a corn hole tournament as well. The grand prize for the Best Dressed Pig contest is twenty-five dollars.

Mountains of Music Homecoming - Virginia

June 10-18th

Nine counties, four cities and over and fifty towns. Over an eight day period the hills and mountains of Virginia come alive with the sounds of a musical heritage that traces its roots back to the European and African settlers that arrived there hundreds of years ago. The Crooked Road that links these municipalities is the marker you'll need as you travel from town to town to see acts such as The Crooked Road Ramblers and Flatt Lonesome, just to name a couple. But music isn't the only draw to this eight day hoedown. In the Central Zone in Cedar Bluff, there is a Community Quilt Challenge, and in Haysi, in the West Zone, there is a folk art exhibit by painter Shawn Wallace. What I've mentioned here is just a tiny snippet of a truly vast experience and exhibition. Find out more here.

AthFest - Athens, GA

June 22 - 26

AthFest is not only an excuse to saunter around one of the coolest college towns in all of the USA, drink beer, eat delicions food and watch some great local and regional musical talent, it is much more than that. It is an embrace of art in and of itself and an opportunity for parents to bring the entire family and get exposed to the idea of creating and to plant the seed of creativity of little ones as well via the KidFest. Here you'll find a block long area with kid friendly bands on the KidsFest stage, kid friendly arts and crafts, and much more. Oh, and once they're over perusing the countless arts and crafts vendors, there is a bounce house for them to wear themselves out in.

Tomato Art Fest - Nashville, TN

August 12 & 13th

Now in its twelfth year, The Tomato Art Fest began in 2004 when East Nashville's Art and Invention gallery hosted an even celebrating the tomato in late summer. The event proved so popular that it immediately turned into an annual event bringing larger and larger crowds every year. The festival has not only been mentioned in publications such as Oxford American, but Southern Living as well, and has been voted the best festival in Nashville by Nashville Scene nine years in a row.

Not only does the festival highlight tomato oriented art, but it also hosts a Beautiful Tomato contest where the idea is to dress up, or adorn, an ordinary tomato as if it were going out on the town for the evening.

Along with the Beautiful Tomato contest, there is an Ugliest Tomato, Biggest Tomato and Littlest Tomato contest, live music across five stages, and even a parade! And, frankly much, much more. Click here for more details.

Biloxi Seafood Festival - Biloxi, MS
September 10 & 11

It may be after Labor Day, but it is still technically summer. And what kind of post would this be if there weren't a festival mentioned that is specifically dedicated to food, and SEAFOOD for that matter!? For over thirty-three years the Biloxi Seafood Festival has been celebrating their heritage not only by cooking up loads and loads of delicious locally caught fare, but also by providing continuous live music, activities for the kids, arts & crafts booths and much more. And did I mention humongous po'boy building, and the gumbo cook-off?

The Bride: Early 1900s How-To Book for Newlyweds - Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 02 May 2016 16:03:00 +0000

This is the second portion of a book found at my grandmother's house (R.I.P.). You will find many peculiar, vintage recipes advertisements and a lot of things spelled differently than one would spell them today. To zoom in on the image - press ctrl +.

This will, no doubt, be many people's favorite section as the craft cocktail trend is surging right now and these are about as vintage recipes as one will find. There were more pages of recipes besides these actually, but I'd been scanning the pages of this book for an hour and felt that these were sufficient.

FOR THE ENTERTAINER

CHAMPAGNE PUNCH - Use one-gallon vessel to mix in; One pound of sugar dissolved into a little seltzer water, four ounces lemon juice, strained; one ounce abricotine, one ounce French brandy, two or three lemons, two or three sliced oranges, three quarts champagne, one quart dry Catawba wine. Mix above well, put into punch bowl with square piece of ice in center; serve in punch cups.

SHERRY PUNCH - Use one-gallon vessel to mix in; six ounces lemon juice, one pound of sugar dissolved in juice, two ounces abricotine, two ounces of Jamaica rum, three quarts sherry wine, one quart of Bourbon whiskey, one or two lemons, one or two oranges, slices and one half can of pineapple, sliced. Put into punch bowl with square piece of ice in center. Serve in stem glasses.

SHERRY COBBLER - Use 7-oz. thin glass, tablespoonful of sugar, dissolve in seltzer water, one drink of sherry wine. Fill remaining part of glass with crushed ice, dress with fruit, serve with straws.

WHISKEY COCKTAIL (DRY) - Use mixing glass half full of crushed ice, one dash of angostura bitters, one drink of whiskey, one twist of lemon peel. Stir, strain into cocktail glass and serve with olive.

THE REMINDER - Use mixing glass half full of crushed ice, one-third jigger of Italian vermuth, one-third jigger of port wine, one-third jigger of sherry wine, one dash of abricotine. Stir, strain into cocktail glass and serve.

WHISKEY SANGAREE - Use mixing glass half-full of crushed ice. Dissolve tablespoonful of sugar in a little seltzer water, one drink of Bourbon whiskey. Stir well, strain into fancy-stem glass, float a little claret or port wine on top and serve.

WHISKEY SOUR - Use mixing glass half-full of crushed ice, tablespoonful of sugar, three or four dashes of lemon juice, one drink of Bourbon whiskey. Shake well, strain into sour glass, top with seltzer and serve.

BOTTLE OF RHINE WINE CUP (1 QUART) - Use one quart glass pitcher, with pint of carbonated water, six or seven lumps of sugar, dissolve well, two ounces of curacoa [actually misspelled, or maybe that's how they spelled it back then] (red), two ounces of French brandy, one square piece of ice cut just to fit pitcher, one pint of Rhine wine. Stir well, dress with fruit, with a few cucumber rinds, around inside of edge of glass. This may be served in champagne glasses.

GIN FIZZ (GOLDEN) - Use mixing glass half full of crushed ice, four or five dashes of lemon juice, one drink of dry gin, one yolk of an egg; add dash of syphon seltzer, add one dash of milk or cream. Shake well, strain into regular size fizz glass and serve.

GIN FIZZ (GRAND ROYAL) - Use mixing glass half full of crushed ice, four or five dashes of lemon juice, one drink of dry gin, one egg, one dash of milk or cream. Shake well, strain into regular size fizz glass, float a little claret on top and serve.

MINT JULEP - Use 7-oz thin glass, one tablespoonful of sugar dissolved in syphon seltzer, four or five sprigs of fresh mint; press mint slightly in bottom of glass; one drink of Bourbon whiskey. Fill remaining part of glass with crushed ice, decorate with fruit, take four or five sprigs of mint with long stems with stems inside glass run your straws directly behind mint, allowing straws to extend a little above mint, and serve.

MORNING AFTER - Use mixing glass half full of crushed ice, two or three dashes of lemon juice, three or four dashes of absinthe, one drink of Tom gin. Shake well, fill fizz glass two-thirds full of carbonated water, strain above mixture in the seltzer water, stir slowly and serve.

ORANGEADE - Peel three oranges thing; boil the peel with three-fourths of a pound or cup sugar in a pint of water; add the juice of fifteen oranges and three pints of cold water. Strain all and set on ice for one hour. Serve as lemonade.

POUSSE-CAFE-SIX COLORS - Use pousse cafe glass. Float carefully upon each other the following cordials: One-sixth glass of raspberry syrup, one-sixth glass of maraschino, one-sixth glass of vanilla (green), one-sixth glass of curacoa (red), one-sixth glass of chartreuse (yellow), one-sixth glass of French brandy on top and serve.

BURNT BRANDY - Use regular size saucer with one cut-load sugar in center of saucer, pouring one drink of brandy over sugar, then light the brandy and let it burn out, then pour into whiskey glass with little nutmeg on top and serve.

CLOVER LEAF - Use mixing glass half full of crushed ice, squeeze juice of one-half lime, two dashes of abricotine, white of an egg, one-half jigger of Gordon dry gin, one-half jigger of Italian vermuth, shake well, strain into cocktail glass and serve.

CHAMPAGNE VELVET - Use 12-oz. thin goblet, nip of porter, the balance wiyh champagne; stir slowly and serve.

CHOCOLATE PUNCH - Use mixing glass half full of crushed ice, one fresh egg, tablespoonful of sugar, dash of brandy, one drink of port wine, one dash of milk or cream. Shake well, strain into 6-oz. thin glass and serve.

CREOLE COCKTAIL - Use mixing glass half full of crushed ice, two dashes pecan bitters, one-third jigger of vermuth (Italian), two-thirds jigger of whiskey. Stir well, strain into cocktail glasses and serve.

ELK FIZZ - Use mixing glass half full of crushed ice, four or five dashes of lemon juice, tablespoonful of sugar, white of an egg, one drink of Gordon gin, one or two dashes of orange flower water, one dash of milk or cream. Shake well, strain into fizz glass with dash of syphon seltzer and serve.

ABSINTHE DRIP - Use pony glass of absinthe set in 7-oz. glass. Fill dripper with crushed ice and water; let the contents drip into the glass containing the absinthe until the cooler shows a sufficiency, then take pony glass out, add dash of syphon seltzer and serve.

BEEF TEA (HOT) - Use Tom and Jerry mug; one teaspoonful of beef extract, one dash of celery bitters. Fill with hot water and stir well. Hand guest salt and pepper so that he may season to his own taste.

APPLE BLOW FIZZ - Use mixing glass half full of crushed ice, three dashes of lemon juice, one tablespoonful of sugar, white of an egg, one drink of applejack. Shake well, strain into fizz glass; add a dash of syphon seltzer and serve.

ABSINTHE SWISS ESSE - Use mixing glass half full of crushed ice, one white of an egg, one pony of absinthe, dash of rock candy syrup, dash of pure milk or cream. Shake well and strain into 4-oz. stem glass; if necessary, add a dash of syphon seltzer and serve.

BRANDY COCKTAIL - Use mixing glass half full of crushed ice, three dashes of rock candy syrup, one dash of Peychaud bitters, one drink of brandy. Stir well, strain into cocktail glass and serve.

BRANDY FLIP - Use mixing glass half full of crushed ice, one teaspoonful of sugar, one fresh egg, jigger of brandy with a dash of milk or cream. Shake well, strain into 6-oz. glass with nutmeg on top and serve.

CANDY

Sugar was not nearly as ubiquitous over one-hundred years ago as it is now. Still, though, people could afford it didn't hesitate to indulge in it. Here are some of the more interesting recipes for candy, cakes, ices and more.

TURKISH DELIGHT - One box gelatine in cup of cold water, one cup of granulated sugar, one quart cold water, juice of one lemon, juice and grated rind of one orange, half pound almonds blanched and chopped fine, two tablespoonfuls of whiskey. Let water come to a boil, add gelatine and let boil ten minutes, then add juice of lemon and orange and boil ten minutes longer. Add whiskey and nuts. Pour into a dish which has been wet with cold water and let cool on ice. Cut in squares and dip in powdered sugar.

ICES

STRAWBERRY SURPRISE - Two quarts of ripe berries, crushed; one pint of sugar, one quart of water, juice of two lemons, whites of six eggs. After crushing berries strain through a cloth. Freeze.

SHERRY TABBLER - One quart of sherry wine, one quart of water, six lemons, some of the peel cut into very fine rings. Sweeten to taste and freeze.

PUDDINGS

CANDY PUDDING - Three pints sugar, one tablespoon vinegar; wet thoroughly with water. Cook thoroughly until it balls soft in cold water. Pour on buttered marble slab. As soon as cool enough pull until white. Put back on marble slab and work in one grated coconut, one cup pecans and a few raisins. As soon as it begins to cream pour into tin that has been buttered and dusted with cinnamon. Slice when ready to serve.

TWENTIETH CENTURY PUDDING - Line a dish with macaroons, one can white cherries poured on macaroons, a thick custard poured on this and served with whipped cream.

NESSELLRODE PUDDING - One pint milk, scalded; two yolks of eggs beaten; half cup sugar added to eggs; put in milk and cook until it thickens. One large tablespoon gelatine dissolved in a little water added to mixture when it is cooling. Not quite half pound macaroons, one-fourth cup chopped raisins, one-fourth cup chopped nuts; add flavoring. Serve with whipped cream.

One can only wonder what mode of transportation they utilized to deliver goods in a "hurry" back then.

PIES, CAKES

MOLASSES PIE - Two cups good molasses, boiled until moderately thick and cool; one cup sugar and three eggs beaten well together, and pour into the molasses and stirred until thoroughly mixed. Then add two tablespoons sweet milk and one nutmeg and pour into crusts and bake.

LARD TARTS - One pound of butter, one pound of sugar, one pound Capitola flour, three eggs beaten separately. Flavor with rose water or brandy. Cream butter and sugar; add yolks of eggs, flour and beaten whites. Make stir dough to roll very thin; cut with diamond shape cutter; brush the top of the cake with yellow of egg and a little milk. Add a pinch of sugar and cinnamon and one pecan or peanut. Bake in quick oven.

CHEESE STRAWS - Make good pastry and roll out thin, spread on grated cheese, fold over and roll again. Continue until full of cheese. Cut in narrow strips and bake a very light brown.

KISSES - Beat whites of three eggs real light, then gradually add one cup of sugar. Drop in six parts on oiled paper and bake in moderate oven. When cool open top and fill with pecans. Serve with whipped cream flavored with whiskey.

PRUNE SOUFFLE - Fourteen prunes, whites eight eggs, one cup of sugar. Boil prunes till tender, remove seed and mash the remainder very fine; then beat eggs till they strand, and sugar gradually, then prunes. Put in double boiler and steam for two hours. Sauce for prune merangue; One egg, three tablespoonfuls of sugar, well beaten together; one teaspoon of butter, four spoonfuls of water. Set on stove and let come to boil. Flavor with vanilla or nutmeg.

ALMOND CAKE - Whites of eleven eggs, two cups of sugar, one cup of sweet milk, one cup butter, two teaspoonfuls baking powder, four cups Capitola flour. Filling: One cup sour milk, one and one-half cups blanched almonds, powdered fine. Thicken with granulated sugar and spread thickly between the layers.

This company seems to have gone out of business, but you can still find modern appliance makers who pay tribute to the heritage.

BUTTERMILK CAKE - Two cups of sugar, one-half cup of butter, two cups of buttermilk, one cup of raisins, one cup of chopped nuts, one teaspoon each cloves, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg; three cups Capitola flour with one teaspoon of soda.

SANDWICHES

FRUIT SANDWICH - Between slices of bread which have been cut about one-fourth inch thick and spread with butter or nut butter put a filling by chopping fine equal parts of steamed figs and nuts, moistening them with water and lemon juice to form a paste. Dates, prunes, raisins or currants may be used in place of figs.

RAISIN SANDWICH - Mix together equal parts pecan nuts and seedless raisins well pounded. Spread between thin slices of buttered white bread.

BREAD

QUICK POCKETBOOK ROLLS - One quart Capitola flour, two teaspoonfuls of yeast powder, one-half cup butter, one egg, one teaspoonful of sugar. Mix with warm sweet milk. Cut with biscuit cutter, spread with melted butter and fold over. Bake quickly.

A FAMOUS KENTUCKY BREAD - One quart of buttermilk, one teaspoon salt, three-fourths spoon of soda, one cup of molasses, two cups of graham flour, four cups of meal, one egg. Add soda, salt egg and milk together, then molasses, then flour, and lastly meal. Grease vessel to bake in most thoroughly, and turn mixture into same and bake in moderate oven for several hours.

SALAD

A DELICIOUS SALAD - Take a bunch of celery, half a pound of stoned dates and half a pound of almost any kind of nuts except almonds. Chop these ingredients into quite small pieces and when they have been well mixed add the pulp of two grapefruits. Arrange on lettuce leaves and dress with mayonnaise.

MINCED MEAT - Four pounds of boiled beef chopped fine, twice as much of green tart apples, one pound of suet chopped, three pounds of raisins, two pounds of currants, half pound of citron cut fine, one pound of brown sugar, one quart of molasses, two quarts of cider, one tablespoonful of salt, one tablespoonful of pepper, one tablespoonful of mace, one of allspice, four tablespoonfuls in cinnamon, two grated nutmegs, one tablespoonful of cloves. Mix thoroughly and warm it on the range until heated through. Remove from fire and when cool add one pint of good brandy and one pint of wine. Put into jars and cover tightly.

And "The Most Beautiful Street In America" Is...

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 17 Mar 2016 14:53:00 +0000

According to this website, which street in America takes top honor of "The Most Beautiful Street in America"? Find Out.

The Bride: Early 1900s How-To Book for Newlyweds - Part 1

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 11 Mar 2016 21:18:00 +0000

I found this book in my granny's house a couple of years ago. She passed away in 2011, and this book was just amongst a bunch of other books in a box in her bedroom. I'd never seen it before, and it didn't look as though anyone had had anything to do with it in quite some time.

Based on a Havertys advertisement inside that states their "Twenty-five years of fair-dealing" and the fact that Havertys was founded in 1885, this book must have been published in or around 1910. It states that it was printed in Memphis, but it is certainly geared toward the Atlanta market.

The time-period specific food and drink recipes abound as do the tips and helpful Hints. Even the spelling of many words is different. Enjoy this peculiar piece of household history, but when it comes to the medicinal remedies and first-aid suggestions, please realize they are more than one-hundred years old and many of them cause more harm than good. I've included them for entertainment purposes only.

To better read the actual pages of this book simply hold down Ctrl and tap + on your keyboard and your screen will zoom in on the text.

One of the first pages in the book reads: We do not with that your life be all sunshine; But there be just enough shadow to temper the rays of the sun.

Some of Atlanta's most prominent retailers utilized this book to offer their services and products.

These should really come back in fashion.

Fresh buttermilk, from a fount!

Havertys is still going strong across the Southeast and beyond.

Some of the recipes and advice are nothing out of the ordinary, but some are rather odd, which you'll see below.

SALADS

EVER-READY MAYONNAISE - Mayonnaise is essential to all salads and the following is a good one for general use: Mix well six teaspoonfuls salt, four of mustard and one of cayenne pepper. Bottle this dry and mix one teaspoonful whenever you make the dressing. Heat five tablespoonfuls vinegar, then beat in the yolks of five eggs, stirring all the time, until a thick, smooth paste. Add one tablespoonful melted butter and one teaspoonful of dry seasoning. This will do for salad or sandwiches.

VEGETABLES

RELISH FOR COLD MEATS - two cans of tomatoes, large size; two cups of vinegar, one cup sugar, two teaspoons each whole cloves and spice, one onion, salt and pepper to taste, a pinch of cayenne. This should be cooled about three-quarters of an hour until thick and served cold with meats. Will keep indefinitely in cool place.

Hints To Housekeepers

Never boil black pepper in your soup; add when done.

To cure a bold of the head, borax should be snuffed up the nostrils.

To take spots from wash goods rub them with yolks of eggs before washing

The Bride's Timetable

Thin Fish - 5 to 8 Minutes
Thick Fish - 12 to 15 Minutes
Spring Chicken - 20 Minutes
Small Birds - 15 Minutes
Tame Duck - 45 Minutes to 1 Hour
Wild Duck - 30 to 45 Minutes

General Health Hints

DOG BITE - The same treatment used for snake bite can be used for dog bite. People frequently get very much excited over bite from a dog. Hydrophobia is rare. I would advise, if the dog shows no sign of being mad, that it be not killed, but penned up and watched. This will, if the dog is normal, relieve the patient and his friends from anxiety. Later, when the patient's condition is absolutely known, such measures may be taken with the dog as may assure the protection of society. In cities where antihydrophobia serum is provided this may be used as a preventative measure.

All animal and rodent bites should receive the same attention as has been recommended for dog bites.

FOREIGN BODIES IN THE NOSE - Blow the nose hard while holding the opposite nostril closed. Excite sneezing by tickling the nose or by giving snuff. Instruct the patient to take a full breath and close the mouth, then give a sharp blow on the back between the shoulders.

General Health Hints

LIGHTNING ACCIDENTS - To prevent accident: (1) Avoid standing under trees to escape from the rain during a thunder storm, but boldly expose yourself to the wet; it will preserve you from lightning. (2) Avoid close to any metallic bodies, as lead pipes or iron railings, etc. (3) When indoors during a thunderstorm, sit or stand as near to the middle of the room as convenient. Avoid standing at the window or sitting near the wall.

General Health Hints

INSENSIBILITY FROM SUNSTROKE-The attack is usually preceded by giddiness, weakness and nausea, eyes bloodshot and contracted, skin hot and dry, subject unconsciou, breathing quick and loud, heart rapid and tumultuous.

General Health Hints

In giving antidotes two general principles must be observed, namely, that acid tends to neutralize alkalies and alkalies neutralize acids.

For poisoning from acids such as muriatic, oxalic, acetic, sulphuric (oil of vitriol), nitric or tartaric, use soapsuds, magnesia, limewater, whiting, plaster scraped from the wall, milk, oil and baking soda. Also by vomiting. In feeding the patient; do so by rectum, as the stomach will be sore.

General Health Hints

FIRST AID IN TIME OF ACCIDENT

AROMATIC SPIRITS OF AMONIA is an indispensable remedy to have about. It is a strong stimulant as an inhalant and can be administered internally, the does being ten to thirty drops in sweetened water. It is efficient in restoring people in a fainting condition by letting them use it in a smelling bottle.

GENERAL HINTS IN TIME OF ACCIDENT

Keep cool. Try and keep others cool. This is the great need. In time of accident, panic of fire, serious results may be avoided is some person is calm enough to take charge of things and inspire confidence. It is well for no one to get accustomed to the sight of blood. Many cannot control themselves under such circumstances. It is a good practice to witness an operation occasionally, or to assist in dressing a wound for the purpose of schooling oneself.

GENERAL HEALTH HINTS.

FRESH AIR-Sleep with the windows open, but protected from direct wind. Night air is not only not harmful, but absolutely helpful. So to it also that you work under conditions of fresh air; it will prove a tonic. Bad air depresses all the organs of the body. Houses, working places, offices, hotels, trains are abominably ventilated; keep on the lookout or you will be constantly poisoned. Tenting out in the summer time or sleeping on a screened porch or roof will prove to the tired worker who is run down a wonderful restorer. Make friends with the fresh air.

WHAT A MOTHER SHOULD KNOW AND DO.

Do not let the baby sleep in the same bed with any other person. If there is no crib the mother should put a couple of chairs at her bedside, with any sort of soft covering on them-not feather pillows or hot woolen stuff-and let the baby sleep there. It will be more comfortable on a summer night than lying against the hot body of its mother, and will not be so apt to disturb and be disturbed.

The backs of the chairs will keep the baby from falling and the mother can readily reach over to care for it when necessary.

Do not drug the baby. If after all your care the baby should fall sick, do not "pour drugs of which you know nothing into a body of which you know less."

Call a doctor instead of investing in patent medicines, "soothing syrups," or "cure-alls," which will probably do your baby more harm than good.

Don't overfeed them, and don't let them overfeed themselves.

WHAT A MOTHER SHOULD KNOW AND DO.

CINNAMON PUNCH - One stick of cinnamon, one cupful of rich milk, two teaspoonfuls of sugar, one teaspoonful of brandy. Put the cinnamon with the milk in a double boiler and steep till the flavor is all soaked out. Add the sugar and brandy. It may be served hot or ice cold, as desired.

TOAST WATER - One slice of stale bread, two cupfuls of boiling water, one slice of lemon. Have bread one-half inch thick, toast brown; pour upon it boiling water, cover closely and cool; strain it. A slice of lemon may be added.

VEGETABLES

ECONOMICAL MAYONNAISE-Four eggs, one teaspoon each of mustard, salt, and Capitola flour, two teaspoons of sugar and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Mix them all together well, then add one full teacup of water and three-fourths of a teacup of vinegar. Beat the eggs very light. Add to the other ingredients, put on stove, stirring constantly till it thickens. Take from the fire and add a heaping tablespoon of butter. When cool, is ready for use. Very nice.

SOUPS

CREAM OF CHICKEN SOUP - Put on an old hen cut up and well covered with water and let simmer all day on the back of the stove. Strain stock into a bowl and set away to cool. When cold take off all the grease. The stock should be a jelly and is ready for use. To quart of stock add one pint of milk; let boil and season with celery salt. Pour in tureen and cover top with whipped cream. (Should look like white of eggs on custard). Serve with croutons. Delicious and pretty. If you serve it by plate, put a spoonful of whipped cream on each plate and have a few croutons on your bread and butter plate.

FISH

Fish with Lemon Sauce - One and one half pints of water, one large onion, celery, cayenne pepper and salt to taste, one sliced lemon. Boil a few minutes, add sliced fish (preferably trout or catfish), about two and one-half pounds, and cook until tender. Remove fish to large platter. Allow to cool. Add three or four yolks of eggs well beaten with one tablespoon of Capitola flour to thicken. Juice of one and half lemon, one package of seedless raisins and boil until thickens. Pour over fish in large platter and serve either hot or cold. Garnish with sliced lemon. This can also be served on lettuce leaf individually. Brains with lemon sauce may be prepared the same way.

Ansley Park is a prominent neighborhood in Atlanta.

WHAT A MOTHER SHOULD KNOW AND DO.

These remedies are in no way meant to be taken as advice for ailments or injuries. Many of the antiquated remedies listed in this book are considered to be, in fact, poisonous today.

LEMON ICE - One-half cupful of water, one-fourth cupful of sugar, one lemon. Boil sugar and water together with a thick piece of lemon rind for three minutes. Cool, add lemon juice and freeze like ice-cream.

RAW-BEEF SANDWICHES - Meat is often served to a patient in this fashion whose stomach will not retain it when cooked. Take about two tablespoonfuls of raw meat prepared as described in scraped beef (see below), season lightly with pepper and salt, spread it between two slices of buttered bread and toast the outside delicately. Be careful not to let the meat reach the edges of the bread as it may nauseate the patient.

WHAT A MOTHER SHOULD KNOW AND DO.

BROILED SWEETBREADS-Before sweetbreads are prepared in any way they have to be parboiled. When they come from the market put them into ice water and let them stand an hour, then drop in boiling salted water to which a tablespoonful of lemon juice has been added. This preserves the white color of the sweetbread and keeps the flesh firm. After cooking slowly for twenty minutes, drop them in ice water and pull off the skin, fiber and all waste scraps, divide into pieces and they are ready to be served as desired. They make a savory dish for the invalid's tray when broiled. Do not separate them when cooking this way, but cut in slices, sprinkle with salt and pepper, brush with melted butter and broil a delicate brown. Season with pepper, salt and lemon juice and, if the doctor allow, a tablespoonful of tomato sauce.

Sweetbreads are delicious when creamed. When served this way they are simply reheated in a white sauce, as directed for creamed chicken, and poured over buttered toast. If you have a small portion left of both chicken and sweetbread, it makes a delicious dish blended with cream sauce. They are also nice reheated in a cup of strong chicken stock with a dash of lemon juice for seasoning.

WHAT A MOTHER SHOULD KNOW AND DO.

SCRAPED BEEF-Tack down to a meat board with a couple of skewers one-half pound of steak cut from the top of the round. With a sharp knife scrape it and lift off all the meaty substance, laying it on a platter. When one side is scraped bare, turn over and get all that is possible off the other side. When finished, there will be nothing left but tough fiber. Mould the scraped beef with a knife into a little cake and broil it over the coals for a few minutes. Season with pepper and salt and serve with buttered toast.

WHAT A MOTHER SHOULD KNOW AND DO.

FOOD FOR INVALIDS

"The utmost daintiness is a necessity when a tray for the sickroom is being set. Food that is tempting in appearance will often create an appetite where none existed. You must remember that an invalid's recovery depends as much upon the diet as upon the medicine. Therefore, everything that is taken to the sickroom must be of the best quality-eggs that are really fresh laid, the best of butter, the tenderest chicken and meats and milk that is perfectly sweet.

WHAT A MOTHER SHOULD KNOW AND DO.

An excellent way to admit fresh air into a sickroom in winter, when a window is near the bed, it to open it the desired height, then spread a piece of cheesecloth over then opening and tack it fast. A still more convenient way it to put the cheesecloth on a small frame that will fit into the opening. It can then be removed at any time.

WHAT A MOTHER SHOULD KNOW AND DO.

THE SICKROOM

"Perfect ventilation, a sunny exposure and, if possible, a fireplace, which has much to do with keeping the air pure, are necessary for the sickroom, which should be kept perfectly neat and clean in every detail. A bare floor with a few small rugs, which can be taken up and shaken, is very much better than a carpet, or even matting. A string mop, used noiselessly about the floor, carries all the dirt without raising dust. The bed should be place so the patient can be shut off from any draughts, also in a position that will not allow the sun or a gas light to glare in his eyes."

Who doesn't want "The Best Drugs"?

WHAT A MOTHER SHOULD KNOW AND DO.

THE MEDICINE CLOSET.

"Divide the shelves into different departments for all sorts of needs. In one side store anything that is poisonous or in any way dangerous. In another keep rolls of antiseptic gause, absorbent cotton, sterilised linen, bags for poultices, lint for court-plaster. Reserve one shelf for such common, everyday remedies as calomel, camphor, cascara, Epsom salts, Jamaica ginger, paregoric, limewater, magnesia, sweet spirits of niter, oil of peppermint, quinine, rhubarb, flowers of sulfur. Upon another keep such drugs as are used for cleansing wounds and bruises and healing burns, also things to be used in cases of emergency, as alcohol, boracic acid, carbolic acid, borax, charcoal, collodion, witch-hazel, iodoform, turpentine, dioxygen, listerine and peroxide. There ought to be a corner for poultice and plaster necessities. There one would find mustard, flaxseed, oil silk, bran, linseed meal and antiphlogistine. Here, too, have small supplies kept together of such things might have to be looked for in different parts of the house-carbonate of soda, ammonia, whiskey and brandy, olive oil, sweet oil, camphorated oil, limewater and oil liniment.
Save every morsel of old linen, as it comes from the laundry, for emergencies.

Keep an eye out for Part 2 of this post for cocktail, and dessert recipes, and more.

Band of the Week: Sailing To Denver

noreply@blogger.com (Southern Civil) — Fri, 11 Mar 2016 19:48:00 +0000

Sailing To Denver

Rooted in the South, Sailing to Denver's music spans many genres, but always has a hint of country, with notions of bluegrass and folk. From obscure classics you feel like you've known all your life to tunes recognized and loved by all Sailing to Denver has something for everyone. The harmonies and musicianship are spot on and the vibe is always casual and carefree.

I recently caught them at Venkman's in Atlanta's Old Fourth Ward and took a few photos. Check out some of their music below.

Music Preview: Tuesday February 2 - 529 Atlanta - KR'RTH, Order of the Owl, Destroyer of Light, Hot Ram

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 01 Feb 2016 21:18:00 +0000

KR'RTH

Comprised of former members of Demonaut, Mondo Generator, Artimus Pyledrive, and Stone Mountain Freeway - Apocalyptic Doom, hard-rock, KR'RTH band hails from Atlanta, GA and makes maniacally intense music.

Order of The Owl

Musically ominous and menacing, and fronted by Zoroaster's Brent Anderson, Order of the Owl's influences range from The Melvins to Big Business, to Prong and beyond.

Destroyer of Light and Hot Ram round out the rest of the lineup

Two of the Best Places to Live and Work as a Filmmaker are in The South

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 23 Jan 2016 00:51:00 +0000

According to MovieMaker.com, Not only is Atlanta the best large city to live and work as a filmmaker, but Savannah is the best small city to do the same. Story here

Small Town Coffee Shops Across the Southeast

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 13 Jan 2016 21:12:00 +0000

Onyx Coffee Lab

A fusion of Modern Ozark design and a seed to cup approach, the three Onyx Coffee Labs between Fayetteville, Arkansas and Springdale, Arkansas offer a truly unique experience. The beans are carefully selected and then roasted to perfection with the idea in mind that one should not taste the roast, but the bean and thus you get a truly perfect cup, or shot, of responsibly sourced coffee - in Arkansas. They even have weekly tastings, which includes three to four coffees and takes 30-45 minutes.

Big City Market & Coffee Bar

Located in downtown Madisonville, Kentucky, Big City Market & Coffee Bar serves all the customary espresso drinks including machiatos, lattes, specialty teas, frozen coffee drinks and plain ol' coffee, but they go a little further - they also serve breakfast lunch and brunch, and handmade pastries. The Hillbilly biscuit is simple, but everything it needs to be - buttermilk biscuit with sharp cheddar and bacon. They also serve a wide array of sandwiches for lunch and delicious specialties for brunch including quiches and a wonderful sounding Crostata made with "walnut dough" and filled with dried cranberries, toasted walnuts and cream.

Mountain Perks Espresso Bar & Cafe

Nestled in the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina in Bryson City, Mountain Perks offers a full variety of espresso drinks, hot teas, chai tea, frozen coffee drinks, smoothies and a wide array of gluten free, vegetarian friendly food options. Where you want peanut butter and jelly on a handmade bagel, or a Cuban coffee Mountain Perks likely has what you're looking for. It's family owned and operated and has free WiFi for customers, too!

Swift & Finch

Right on Broad Street in relatively bustling downtown Rome, Georgia, near the idyllic Between The Rivers neighborhood is Swift & Finch. This full-service coffee shop roasts their own coffee and offers glass-bottle sodas and pastries as well. Rome, GA was on USA Today's list of Idyllic and Historic Main Streets and Berry College, also in Rome, was voted most beautiful college campus in the world by Buzzfeed Community.

The Artful Dodger

Not only does The Artful Dodger in Harrisonburg, Virginia have an thorough coffee selection, but they also have an extensive food menu and serve alcohol and have live music and a comedy night as well- and it's been doing so for 23 years! The Artful Dodger welcomes people form all backgrounds and walks of life.

Hot Cup

Another Coffee shop on our list that is much more than a coffee shop. Hot Cup in Logan, West Virginia is not only a place to get a pick-me-up on a cold morning on your way to work, or a quiche or a sandwich or a summer-time smoothie, is also a cultural hub for the town of Logan. Regularly selling artwork of the locals, and NOT taking any commission on the sales, hosting live music and comedy nights, and offering free WiFi all adds up to being much more than a Coffee shop - Hot Cup is an institution for a town of less than two-thousand. These are all things you just can't get a certain over-commercialized nationwide coffee chains.

Band of the Week:Doc Dailey & Magnolia Devil

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 28 Dec 2015 22:07:00 +0000

Southern Grit Pop, Indie-Folk- call it what you like- but Doc Dailey and Magnolia Devil's music is rooted in history-rich North Alabama- Muscle Shoals to be exact.

Their sound is akin to bluegrass with a rock edge and the lyrics are rooted in stories of home, love lost and venturing out on one's own. Doc Dailey's voice is warm and inviting and pairs nicely with the vulnerable characters he often writes about.

Not only was their 2012 album Catch the Presidents partly produced by Alabama Shakes' keyboardist Ben Tanner, but they've opened up for them while on tour as well. They were even featured in a Vice Magazine short film about the Muscle Shoals scene and innumerable famous acts that have come through the small town to record and write - ever heard of Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, Paul Simon, or Otis Redding?

Check out some of their tunes below.

Annual 'Made In The South' Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Southern Civil) — Fri, 18 Dec 2015 19:48:00 +0000

From gun cases to oyster knives to hand crafted wooden boats and beyond, these products are not only Made in the USA- They're made right down the road... Full Story-

Best Towns in the South for Christmas Are...

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 08 Dec 2015 21:08:00 +0000

Five towns in the South made Good Housekeeping's list of most festive places to celebrate the Christmas... Read more.

Keeping Small Towns Alive, Literally

noreply@blogger.com (Southern Civil) — Tue, 01 Dec 2015 16:50:00 +0000

Some things you might not think about, but their impact is huge... Read More.

Men's Fall/Winter Fashion

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 25 Nov 2015 19:10:00 +0000

Though the leaves are in a display of vibrant colors many days this time of year are crisp and grey and you're going to want to dress to match these earthy hues of Autumn in The South.

Flannel and plaid don't seem to be going anywhere anytime soon and looks that originated in the 70s are alive and well.

All Saints

I've never been one that was too into the flat bottom shirts, but this one works well with various casual settings. I'm not sure about most people, but I actually keep stuff in my shirt pockets all the time-and this flannel has 2; perfect for keeping a valet ticket in one, lighter in the other. This shirt is nearly $200, but there are countless comparable ones like it for much more reasonable prices out there. Albeit the quality might be as high, but I've certainly been disappointed by expensive name brands, too.

Bridge and Burn
Haymakers & Company, Nashville TN

This flannel, lined overshirt is sure to keep you warm enough so that you might be able to leave the jacket at home this winter, but you won't be sweltering when you're inside at the annual holiday party.

An ever-evolving boutique in a bungalow in Nashville's Midtown/Vanderbilt neighborhood, Haymakers & Company partners with local artists and companies to create a truly unique shopping experience complete with free drinks -if you so desire- and even a barber if you need a shave or haircut.

Billy Reid
Florence, Alabama

Subtle and understated, and Made in the USA of 100% cotton by Florence designer Billy Reid, this classically demure Clancy Shirt will go great with just about anything. The buttons are made of bone and the pocket flaps are hidden by flaps themselves. One can find a Billy Reid store in Atlanta, New York, Houston, Dallas, New Orleans and many other distinguished cities across the Southeast, and the United States.

I tend to think of it as a high-end, exclusive J. Crew.

This designer shirt is, of course, top-notch quality, but if your budget, like mine, isn't quite up to par with such a price point a comparable shirt can be found here.

Ralph Lauren
Labrada Double-Breasted Wool Blend Peacoat

A coat like this is very much an essential to any Southern Gentleman's winter wardrobe for the when he needs to project an air of sophistication, but, of course, needs to keep his self warm. It comes in a variety of colors and sizes and is available at an upscale, nationwide department store at a very reasonable price.

Schott Bros.
Wool Slim Peacoat

Cut a bit differently to fit more snugly, made in America, but significantly more expensive than the jacket above, that is probably made in Asia somewhere, this jacket can be found across the Southeast at many fine retailers. Like the gentleman in the picture, wear it with some dark blue trousers and probably even some black boots. Schott is based out of New York City and their products can even be found at Army Surplus Stores.

Barbour Fishing Standen Jacket
Harrison Limited, Birmingham

Originating in England in the mid 1800s for water-proofing garments used by the sailing industry, waxed-cotton is made by infusing cotton with paraffin.

Likely named for the Standen Art House in West Sussex, England this handsome coat is a modern take on a classic garment. These days you're much more likely to wear this out to dinner or to work than you are to actually wear it fishing. The idea is to pay homage to days gone by and that if one wanted to go fishing in it, in the rain, it would be perfectly suited for such an activity.

It comes complete with a detachable hood and drawstrings to keep you extra dry.

Pendleton Original Westerly Zip Cardigan

Like you're ordering it right out of The Big Lebowski, your uncle who grew up in the 70s listening to Waylon Jennings and Lynyrd Skynyrd will appreciate this throwback to a time when most of the people who might wear this sweater's parents were children. Walk into Thanksgiving or venture out for holiday shopping and you're sure to turn heads with the Native American inspired patterns and classic cut.

The Navy Nottingham Shawl Cardigan
Ledbury - Richmond, Viginia

Named for James Brudenell, 7th Earl of Cardigan, British Army Major General who led the Charge of the Light Brigade during the Crimean War in the mid-1800s the Cardigan is supposedly modeled after the wool waistcoats the British Officers wore during the war.

This sweater could be worn over a dingy t-shirt to a hipster bar or with a light-blue Oxford to brunch at the country club. Your choice.

Ledbury's roots are in the American south but the idea for a fine men's store was formed on the other side of the Atlantic London. Passed on to them by their mentor and still holding true today Ledbury holds firm to the creed - "Be the best, make the best, and the rest will follow.

Wanna Know The Origins of Cornbread Stuffing???

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 20 Nov 2015 23:38:00 +0000

Like majority of the the recipes and dishes synonymous with Thanksgiving, and the Holidays in general, this American staple was born from making the best of what have just to stay alive. Read more here...

Celebrity Graves Across Georgia

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 30 Oct 2015 20:34:00 +0000

Where Famous Folks Are Buried in Georgia... Continue to original story here.

Native American Guide to Mental and Physical Toughness

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 28 Oct 2015 21:37:00 +0000

"The desire to be a man--the native spirit of the explorer and the hero--this is the strong inner motive which leads a boy out of the wilderness trail to discover the world anew."

Continue to original story...

Hidden Small Town Gems across the South

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 21:18:00 +0000

There are many quaint, charming and hidden small-town-gems across the South... Here are 10 of them.

Best Places in the Southeast for Eco Tourism

noreply@blogger.com (Southern Civil) — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 16:36:00 +0000

Cumberland Island, Georgia

For a state with a population pushing 10 million Georgia has one the least developed coast lines in the country, which means it is a great place to take in the great outdoors. And upon this coast there is no better place to do that than Cumberland Island. Accessible only by boat, Cumberland Island has absolutely no access to power whatsoever-- unless you can afford to stay at the ultra-exclusive Greyfield Inn-- and is a former getaway for New York elites such as the Carnegie family, and current home to a large number of wild horses.

The activities on the island range from fishing, crabbing and clamming, to star gazing, wildlife viewing, boating, swimming, hiking and just being grateful you have a brief moment of disconnect from our dizzying technology-crazed modern world.

Being so picturesque the island is, of course, quite a romantic place to bring your significant other and that, along with its seclusion, is precisely the reason John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette chose it exchange their vows there in a small church lit by candle light back on September 19, 1996. The reception, of course, was held at the Greyfield Inn.

For more information visit click here.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina really is a cornucopia of ways to entertain yourself. There are breweries, restaurants and bars aplenty, and, of course, a multitude of outdoor activities. But, for this article we're focusing on strictly the nature surrounding the city.

Weather permitting, the ideal place to stay when trying to get a feel for the Asheville outdoors is the Banana Patch hostel at Mountain Light Sanctuary. It bills itself as a little bit of the South Pacific in Blue Ridge Mountains and offers steep tropical roof huts on stilts with doors covered by curtains of burlap coffee sacks from around the world--and you can actually hear the sound of the nearby mountain creek from your hut.

Surrounding the Banana Patch and Mountain Light Sanctuary you have your pick of rock climbing, hiking to waterfalls, fishing, mountain biking, zip lining panoramic views and more.

If you'd like a stay with a little more modern amenities then Mountain Light Sanctuary itself is probably your best bet. There you'll have access to a common kitchen, indoor toilet, wrap-around porch with rocking chairs and high-speed WiFi.

Click here for more information

Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississppi

Whether you're biking the Natchez Trace Parkway or fishing, camping or kayaking in a cypress swamp not too far from it, this historical route has plenty to offer for the casual hiker to the avid outdoorsman.

Originally used as a route by the Native Americans that first inhabited the area the Natchez Trace stretches 444 miles from Nashville, Tennessee all the way down to Natchez, Mississippi.

All one has to do is search and you'll find numerous campgrounds, mountain bike trails, walking trails and locally owned businesses ready to take you on a canoe or kayak adventure.

For more information click here.

Talladega National Forest, Alabama

From waterfalls to rocky overlooks, Talladega National Forest boasts 613 square miles of second-growth forest that was once logged to the point that it was one of the most abused and eroding wastelands in North America. Since it was purchased by the federal government in the 1930s it has returned to a thriving wilderness with an abundance of wildlife and a diverse eco-system all the way around. Talladega National Forest is also home to Alabama's highest point-- Mount Cheaha.

The activities in the Talladega National Forest abound: One has 7 different trails to choose from, camp with sanitary facilities or without, mountain biking, canoe the Lloyd Owens Canoe trail or even go off-roading at the Kentuck ORV park.

Visit East Alabama Tourism for more info.

Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia

No hiking or cycling in Georgia's Okefenokee Swamp. According to who you ask Okefenokee is either a Native American word that means "trembling earth" or is the Anglicization of the Itsate Creek Indian words oka fenoke which mean "water shaking".

What you can do, though, is fish, camp, kayak and canoe and view the wide array of wildlife that live in the swamp-including alligators, raccoon, 200 varieties of birds, otters, flying squirrels, gopher tortoises, gophers, black bears, foxes, rabbits, bobcats, weasels, beavers, minks and hopefully one day we'll see a reintroduction of the Florida Panther which was killed off from the swamp many years ago.

The Okefenokee is the largest blackwater swamp in the United States.Within these waters live nearly 40 different species of fish including pickerel, largemouth bass, fliers, channel catfish, bullhead catfish, sunfish, bluegill, crappie, and many more. Whatever water craft you choose on your way to one of the many camping platforms for campers you will have no shortage of places to fish or types of fish to fish for. Just make sure you have a fishing license and pack out what you pack in.

Click here for more information.

Band of the Week: Mipso

noreply@blogger.com (Southern Civil) — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 19:07:00 +0000

Embracing fully their rich North Carolina roots, Mipso's music is nostalgic and pleasant to the ear. Upon hearing their tunes for the first time it brings to mind familiar notions and images of the stripped down music played by farmers and folks working off the land, and trying to survive. Though food is not nearly as scarce these days in America Mipso's bluegrass harmonies, melodies and rhythms reflect a sound that still lives on in the hearts of so many.

In 2013 their debut album Dark Holler Pop hit number 8 on the Billboard Bluegrass charts and quite a few people were surprised--including the band. Mandolin player Jeff Sharp explains, "Well, we didn't know so many people would buy it." And they were equally surprised to find out that they had been pegged under the "Bluegrass" category, as they were simply making music they enjoyed making.

The tune below touches on not being exactly sure what one's path is in life--which is subject matter we all can relate with.

Band of the Week: Bootz and Katz

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 30 Sep 2015 21:39:00 +0000

Bootz and Katz -

Bootz and Katz bring big beats and driving synths and guitars along the lines of Ghostland Observatory blended with sort of an electric arena rock sound that is reminiscent of Linkin Park, but not as cliche.

Formed in Macon, Georgia in 2013 the band has built a reputation as being one of the most prominent livetronica acts in Georgia. Along with Rehab, Washed Out, and various other acts from the area, Middle Georgia is slowly making a name for itself as nucleus for mainstream acts other than just Country, which is what might come to mind first for a lot of people.

They played just a couple of weeks ago at Macon's Hummingbird Cafe and you can catch them in Milledgeville October 24th at Buffingtons.