Travelonz

Announcing my new sci-fi book: COMPLEX

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Thu, 31 Oct 2019 22:43:00 +0000

Our new book “Complex” is officially available on Amazon!

In this book Mark St. Clair’s life has fallen apart: he is diagnosed with incurable cancer just as his career is taking off. Afraid that his life is over, he agrees to undergo a radical new technology. Now, in a secret facility in Colorado, he is frozen alive in a controlled death awaiting a cure for his brain cancer. He awakes to find a bio-agent has wiped out most life forms and the COMPLEX facility is under the watchful eye of Rex, a supercomputer capable of imitating intelligent human behavior. COMPLEX is a fast-paced roller-coaster ride of a thriller that explores the frightening possibilities that await us when AI takes over. Buy this book to plunge into a race against time, as one man stands between human survival and extinction.

Grab your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1645446662/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_i_iwxxDbS4ZWWJX

P.S. If you enjoy the book, please leave a positive review on Amazon after you’ve read it. Thank you!

Pop Quiz!

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Thu, 01 Sep 2016 22:33:00 +0000

Where was Coca-Cola bottled for the first time?

If you guessed Atlanta, Georgia, you'd be off by over 420 miles. The correct answer is: Vicksburg, Mississippi.

Up until 1894, when candy merchant Joseph Beidenharn came up with the concept of dispensing Coca-Cola in individual bottles, the popular beverage was always sold at ornate soda fountains. His idea revolutionized the way soft drinks were marketed, and today, franchised bottlers distribute the product worldwide.

Visitors can tour the Museum of Coca-Cola in downtown Vicksburg to learn the history this beverage and see various memorabilia inside the fully-restored Biedenharn Candy Company. Wander through the exhibits to see old-time maps, photos, souvenirs, 1890s furniture, and original processing equipment.

The candy shop-museum is located at 1107 Washington Street in historic Vicksburg, MS. Open year round except for New Years Day, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Monday-Saturday from 9:00 - 5:00, Sunday 1:30 - 4:30. Admission is $3.50 for adults and $2.50 for children (6 - 12). While you're there, enjoy a Coke and delicious ice cream or homemade candy. Visit their website at biedenharncoca-colamuseum.com.

Bronze Lady of Buceo

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Fri, 03 Jun 2016 00:04:00 +0000

In a quiet corner of the Buceo barrio in Montevideo, Uruguay, lies El Cementerio, the oldest burial ground in the city. Built in 1835, this cemetery is one of four laid out on a bluff across the road from the sandy beaches of the Rio de la Plata. Much of it is laid out in a grid with lanes bordered by palm trees, evergreens and flowering shrubs.

Mourners and necro-tourists pass through a triple-arched stone entrance gate into the necropolis to wander through the grounds to admire ornately carved marble monuments garnished with flowers and tributes. Here and there a statue (angel, saint, anchor, crucifix) poke upward through a jumbled maze of bronze, marble and granite.

Here, visitors can enjoy the work of international sculptors: Italian artists such as Morelli, Livi and Lavarello and local artisans such as Zorrilla de San Martin and Belloni. Many of the burial monuments are allegorical: sleeping children, angels weeping, figures carrying young women who had died in childbirth.

In a cluttered grove of elaborate monuments, one simple grave stands alone. The figure of a bronze woman lies procumbent on a sheet, spread over a granite slab. Her body emerges from the smooth surface in high relief. Curled on her right side, she lies in a fetal position; face blurred in a mass of tangled hair. Who is she, this girl whose arms cradle her head, her fingers flexed and pressing gently into tender flesh? A delicate shoulder emerges gracefully from the folds of her sleeveless dress. The hem of her dress flows to cover her heels. Only her toes are seen arched gracefully.

Grass fringing the gray stone slab has dried to a crispy yellow. Debris from dead vegetation encircles her neck like a garland. The only green is the patina covering her bronze flesh and flowing garment. Does she grieve for someone or is she to be grieved?

This is the vision of faceless death. At once peaceful and fearful, it is not grand. No angelic intermediaries link heaven and earth. There are no florid architectural devices. Stunning in its simplicity it stands alone in its haunting beauty.

In a city known for its magnificent architecture, a trip to El Cementerio del Buceo is a fascinating and absorbing experience. Take the bus (cars 38 or 39) or hire one of the reasonably priced city taxis. Night tours are conducted by a local historian.

Exotic, Diverse Puerto Rico

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Tue, 17 May 2016 14:36:00 +0000

In two-and-a-half hours--the time it takes to slog through security lines at most airports--you can fly from Miami International to San Juan, Puerto Rico. Relax and dip your toes into the frothy waters of the tropical Atlantic Ocean. Order a plate of mofongo and wash it down with a refreshing mojito!

On arrival at this island paradise, it's a short taxi ride to the center of the original capital, which covers seven square blocks. Take a walking tour of city center and wander over blue cobblestone streets made of bricks originally used as ballast on wooden trade ships. Did you know that Old San Juan was established in 1492?

Visit La Fortaleza, the Governor's Residence, built as a fort in the early 1500's to fend off invaders from the sea. Today it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can tour its gardens Monday through Friday from 9:00 until 3:30 pm, for a $3 donation.

Did you know that the famous explorer, Ponce De Leon, is buried in the San Juan Bautista Cathedral, a 450 year-old church? Daily Mass is still celebrated inside.

Be sure to schedule an afternoon, or day-long visit the lush green El Yunque Rainforest, 45 minutes drive from the capital, where you can see mist-covered mountains, ponds, flowers and coqui frogs up close. The tour guide will take you to the La Coca waterfall and the Yokahu Observation Tower.

Next trip, I'm going to see Arecibo, the world's largest radio telescope.

Puerto Rico offers a variety of activities: golf, sailing, catamaran snorkeling, hiking and zip lining. Whether you're looking for nature adventures, sandy tropical beaches, exciting night-life, interesting culture--a mix of Taino, African and Spanish influences--or great food, it's all here. Visitors can reach the island by direct flights from several State-side gateways, and no passports are required for U.S citizens.

Ode to Aphids

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Wed, 08 Jul 2015 13:15:00 +0000

You've come here to do battle

my little aphid fiends,

but in the end I'll getcha

by any mortal means.

In pow'dry fine white armies

you chew my plants to shreds.

Where are the winged predators

you nasty critters dread?

Those ladybugs have flown away

their plant-lice meal untouched.

I'm forced to fight with chemicals

and other toxic stuff.

I march out to my garden

with several cans of DEET

But then I stop. Consid'ring,

that all bugs gotta eat.

Food, Friends and a Fire Truck

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Tue, 19 May 2015 22:32:00 +0000

Imagine the look of wonder and surprise on the faces of the neighborhood kids when they saw a big red fire truck roll up the street on a sunny Saturday afternoon. The children dropped their cans of silly string and Super Soakers long enough to watch the giant vehicle stop and park alongside a gathering of their parents and friends at the mid-May Ivey Chase Spring Block Party in Stone Creek.

Soon, three representatives of the LCFR (Lowndes County Fire Rescue) opened the truck's shiny red doors and hopped out to join the folks, as special guests at the neighborhood picnic.While the grown-ups wandered over to admire the array of high-tech equipment, children climbed aboard to get a good view of the dials, hoses, jump seats, and gear.

Tommy Crump, Sergeant on Duty, stacked his bunker gear on the tarmac in the at-the-ready position for everyone to see. When not in use, these clothes are turned inside out so a firefighter can quickly step into them and pull them on. Did you know that a firefighter must be able to get into his or her gear--including air tank and mask--in two minutes, in order to be certified?

"We love to meet and greet the community and let the people get a glimpse of our world. This way we can show them what we do in different situations," said Sgt. Crump.

"Often times we visit to educate and impress the children, but it's the adults who seem to enjoy it even more." Over the next hour, the firemen fielded lots of questions from the crowd and enjoyed discussing how they use specialized training and equipment to help the community.

"Being a firefighter involves a personal commitment to service that comes from the heart," said Joe Brown. Often, these teams are your first line of defense. They will even respond to EMS calls if no ambulance is available. "Sometimes, the action is non-stop. Whether it's putting out a fire or just helping grandpa back into bed, we do whatever we can to be of assistance," added Jeff Fitch. "Thank you for allowing us to come out to serve our customers."

After the getting a close-up look at the fire truck, everyone gathered to enjoy burgers and hot dogs hot off the grill and an assortment of homemade appetizers and desserts.

Making new friends with Lowndes County Firemen and checking out their mighty red truck was the highlight of the day.

Milltown Murals of Lakeland, GA

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 12:57:00 +0000

Once a year on the first Saturday in April, Lakeland,Georgia (formerly known as Milltown c. 1925) holds the Milltown Murals Motorcade. Here, vintage vehicles line up on Main Street for a dazzling two-hour parade through the streets of town. Drivers and spectators alike enjoy the old cars, refreshments, music, and games for the children.

After the crowd disperses and the last of the antique cars chug out of town, the dust settles and visitors are free to browse more than thirty murals painted on the walls of its historic downtown buildings. These images, with their life-size characters, depict the activities and actual people who lived in rural Georgia during the 1920s.

Artwork, like the gathering of folks in front of the Post Office, and the steam locomotive, cover the entire broadside of a building. Smaller ones, like the sepia-toned women, are only several feet square.

Outside of the doctor's office a man comforts a young fellow with a skinned knee.

Is that George Burns standing in front of the white chapel?

Children's facial expressions are well represented in the paintings; frowns, boredom, happy smiles.

Ralph Waldrop and Billy Love of Columbia, South Carolina began painting the murals in 1998. Each one is accompanied by a plaque describing the scene and the characters. Look for the display with a QR code so you can scan it with a QR reader to take the audio tour.

Stop by the Visitors Center located at 8 South Valdosta Road, for a map to learn more about the location of the individual paintings. Lakeland is the county seat of Lanier County in Southeast Georgia. Set your GPS and c'mon down. This community loves company, and the outdoor show never closes.

Madison, on Georgia's Antebellum Trail

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 13:10:00 +0000

One hour east of Atlanta lies the historic town of Madison, where Antebellum mansions and Southern charm thrive. Pick up a map at the Welcome Center in the town square and begin your own journey down the Antebellum trail. Start at Heritage Hall, located in one of the oldest and largest of the National Historic Districts, and current headquarters for Madison's Historical Society. (Stop #4 of 46 on the architecture walking/driving tour.) This 1811 home was built by Dr. Elijah Jones, who was a physician for the Confederacy.

He set up his surgery in one of the back rooms of the house, after the Yankee General Sherman's Army burned his downtown office, on their march to the sea. You can browse through the doctor's medical books and equipment. Did you know that in those days, medical school lasted only one year? After that, young physicians learned by doing, under the supervision of older practitioners.

In the dining room, pull up a chair beside the large oval mahogany table, set with hand painted china, and listen to the docent's story of how gentlemen dinner guests would enjoy after-dinner cigars and port in the dining room, while the ladies retreated to the drawing room beyond the carved wooden pocket doors, for tea.

Marvel at the toys and furniture in the childrens' bedroom, including a tiny china tea set, a 200-year-old doll, and a miniature bicycle. There's even a topsy-turvy doll lying on a toddler's bed.

Did you know that diamond engagement rings were rare in the early 1800's. If a young woman was lucky enough to receive one, she could check to see if the gem was real by making scratch marks with it on glass. Visitors can still see these etchings on several of the house's window panes.

Visitors can tour this charming city by either walking or driving. There's a map of the mile-and-a-half route that will guide you through the historic district and downtown areas. In town, you can shop at any of the 200 antique vendors and specialty stores, dine at one of the dozen downtown restaurants, or stay at one of the local bed and breakfasts, or luxury inns.

Madison's Welcome Center is located on the square at 115 E. Jefferson Street. Open every day until late afternoon. Call 800-709-7406 or visit www.madisonga.org. Heritage Hall is open Monday through Saturday form 11 - 4, Sunday 1:30 - 4:30, available for private events.

Nashville's Parthenon

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Wed, 06 Aug 2014 23:18:00 +0000

Can't make it to Greece this summer? If your heart is set on seeing the Parthenon, consider touring the full-scale replica of the temple, in Nashville, Tennessee.

Once inside, stand at the foot of a 42-foot tall statue of Athena, gilded with eight pounds of gold. In her right hand sits the goddess of victory, Nike. Though tiny in comparison, she stands over six feet tall. Athena's left hand rests on the rim of a fifteen-foot high shield.

Wander to the far wall and stand before enormous 24-foot high bronze doors. On the opposite wall you can see casts of the original pediment statues. You might be surprised by the daubs and splashes of color throughout the building. Keep your camera handy to capture images, but on the second floor and outside only.

Set in beautiful Centennial Park, two miles west of downtown Nashville, the Parthenon was first built in 1897 to commemorate 100 years of Tennessee statehood. This temporary structure was later replaced with a permanent one in 1931. Since reopening, it has attracted thousands of visitors from all over the world.

Whether you're visiting Vanderbilt University, coming into Nashville for the music or food, don't miss strolling the Parthenon galleries, exhibits and walking trails that make this city the "Athens of the South."

The Parthenon is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 - 4:30 and on Sunday from 12:30 - 4:30. Admission is $6 for adults and $4 for children (4 - 17). For more information call 615-880-2265.

Block Party

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Thu, 16 May 2013 18:57:00 +0000

A cool, rainy spring blew eastward out of town, taking with it most of the mosquitoes and gnats, and leaving in its wake clear skies and a warming sun - finally!

It was time to invite the neighbors, a few extra friends along with an assortment of local children, and throw a block party.

Out came the giant-sized BBQ filled with smokin' charcoal - big enough to grill dozens of hot dogs and burgers at once. Coolers filled with ice popped up here and there.

There were 4 large tables laden with an assortment of homemade appetizers and desserts, buns and condiments.

The guests' first stop was the card table to pick up a hand printed nametag - which helped when trying to remember 40 or so names at once. It was also the station where the kids could get their faces painted - most choosing a flower, a dolphin or colorful bird.

And it was easy to spot in the middle of the cul-de-sac as it was the one decorated with shiny helium balloons.

Everybody brought their own chair, a beverage or two and a side dish.

While the children played an assortment of outdoor games and made sidewalk chalk drawings, the adults sat and talked or strolled around and got to know each other better.

Some folks had never met; some hadn't spoken to each other for years; others had just moved in.

Everybody had a great time, and there's talk of a repeat party in October.

Restful Ryokan

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 21:57:00 +0000

Ryokan is a traditional country inn typically found in the picturesque countryside of Japan. Here, guests will feel like they are taking in journey back in time to experience life in the Edo period of Japan (1603-1868). It's a celebration of the art and culture of that period.

Visitors will experience first hand many traditional customs including a tea ceremony, wearing a yukata (cotton robe) and sleeping on a futon that is laid on a floor covered with straw tatami mats. In order to preserve the delicate mats, one is expected to remove their shoes before entering the room.

The ryokan serves dinner in kaiseki ryori style cuisine, which is a meal consisting of more than 20 small dishes that are beautifully arranged and brought to the table at the same time.

Perhaps the best luxury involves soaking in a relaxing onsen filled with water from a nearby hot spring. These baths can be private or communal, but in either case the water is very hot and guests are expected to wash and rinse their body at a shower station before entering the onsen. Once the visitor gets used to the steaming hot temperature it becomes so relaxing that it's difficult to leave.

Every detail at a ryokan is meticulously arranged for the comfort and satisfaction of the guest, from the exquisite rooms, gardens and baths to the visually pleasing and sophisticated cuisine.

It may be that the best time to immerse yourself in the calming, luxurious elegance of a ryokan is in winter where the traditional architecture blends into the beauty and simplicity of nature.

A Waycross Picnic

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 02:05:00 +0000

A cowboy, a monkey and a cop walked into a bar …

Truth is, it wasn’t a bar, but they all were there that afternoon for the local feed store customer appreciation day in Waycross, Georgia.

Once a year the proprietors of this store throw a down home country buffet lunch for their many customers who trade at the store throughout the year.

Here you could sit elbow-to-elbow with farmers, accountants, family and friends. One fellow and his Mama even brought a pair of pet marmoset monkeys—to the delight of children of all ages (myself included).

Half a dozen state troopers stopped by and dug into plates of ribs and pulled pork sandwiches. There were three or four flavors of BBQ sauce—including the unlabeled house special.

Cowboys in Stetson hats perched on bales of hay in the parking lot. It wasn’t a prop, just more outdoor seating for the crowd that topped 300 visitors.

There were more than 60 pounds of potato salad, an equal amount of country style green beans and a mess of pork and beans served up from steaming pans and platters. I happily tossed my diet out the window and dove into a piece of homemade red velvet cake (make that two). Coconut cake, chocolate dipped pecans, peanut butter and divinity candy leapt off the serving table onto paper plates, at record speed as the hungry diners helped themselves to the home made sweet delights. Everything was made from scratch, with lots of heart.

Visitors wandered around the parking lot admiring the gussied up pick-up trucks being loaded with pallets full of animal feed. Inside the store they found a wide assortment of farming supplies and saddles—real working gear, not the stuff of show horses or dude ranches.

Talk centered around the harvest, speculation on the weather and how one of the kin was going to Las Vegas—not for the gambling or showgirls; for the rodeo. That's country!

Thanks folks, and we’ll see y’all next year.

My Little Beach

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 17:18:00 +0000

Seventy blocks north of Chicago’s “Loop” lies Loyola (Leone) Park beach. Of an evening or weekend, this 8-block long swatch of sand on the shore of Lake Michigan, is a gathering place for students from the nearby university and local families looking to enjoy a little packet of nature in this city of over 2.7 million.

And although the beach is rarely crowded, today it belongs solely to me.

It’s a mid-September afternoon and there is no one in sight. The sun shines brightly on the yellow sand, and there’s a chill in the steady breeze that always seems to be blowing inland. My own shadow is sharply delineated against a relief of stubble-grass. Each footfall plunges my shoe, laces-deep into sand leaving a string of micro-dunes that trace my aimless path.

In the distance, looking south, the magnificent cityscape fades to a uniform bluish-gray hue. All of its energy—the good, the bad and indifferent, dissipates into the haze. I am here to peer through a stand of trees at gentle waves that stumble to the shore wearing a frill of white caps. My thoughts drifting like it’s gently swirling tides.

The water is clear; the sand clean and lively. There is green space behind the beach which muffles the carking din of city traffic. So here in this place I am free to toss a piece of driftwood to the dog; to write poetry, or just wander quietly along the shore on a crisp afternoon in early autumn.

3 Cheers for "306 North"

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Sat, 18 Aug 2012 17:50:00 +0000

“Tonight’s special is sushi” says the smiling waitress. “They’re hand-rolled by Chef Lee,” she continues.

It’s another busy weeknight and the dining room is filling with hungry patrons, while others gather for happy hour at the well-stocked bar. Sushi is just one of the unique delights to be found here at 306 North Restaurant on a Thursday night. It’s a local favorite in historic, downtown Valdosta GA.

“306” is the kind of restaurant where diners are seated at tables covered with white linen tablecloths, each sporting a dollop of fresh flowers in a tiny vase. Soft green walls are hung with original artwork created by local artists. You can buy one and take it home.

Many of the recipes are Chef Lee’s unique spin on traditional Southern classics.

“I find something I like, then make it with my own twist.” And what he likes is sometimes humorous, like the may haw jelly and peanut butter crème brulee dessert. Or deep-fried fish bones. Based on the playful name, I couldn’t resist the temptation to try that one, and it was good. Really good.

Grits are a staple throughout the South, but Chef puts his own touch on this classic dish using home grown, all natural stone ground white corn grits that are produced in nearby Lakeland, Georgia. Incorporating smoked gouda adds a delicate complexity and richness that perfectly compliments any main dish.

Bask in the ambiance in the contemporary dining room, or wander out onto the covered patio to enjoy Happy Hour daily. On Friday nights, the restaurant showcases the music of newly discovered local talent.

There are wine tastings on the second Tuesday of each month, where guests can enjoy samples from their robust wine collection along with hors d’oeuvres, for a fixed price.

306 North Restaurant is at 306 North Patterson St. in Valdosta, Georgia. The name is a playful use of its geographic location.

Telephone: 229-249-5333, and you can find them on FB

Oh, Savannah

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 16:43:00 +0000

The wall of steel-grey clouds that chased us all the way from Waycross abruptly exploded in mid-stride, drenching the city of Savannah.

Then, just as quickly the summer storm stopped leaving a humid warm blanket of fragrant air hugging the city. As the town wrung itself out, we could hardly wait to re-visit its beautiful squares.

The charm of these urban parks lies in its blend of nature and beautiful architecture. In the historic downtown area, visitors will find one of the 24 little gardens every few blocks. Each one is surrounded by or encloses a piece of the city’s 300 year-old history.

Here are 3 favorites:

Forsythe Park

Named for former Georgia Governor John Forsyth (c. 1827). The park is the largest in the city, but its scale is intimate and welcoming. You might see runners enjoying the long stretches of shady pathways. And you might recognize this fountain from the movie “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” (1997)

Monterrey Square

A surprisingly short walk from the Forsythe Park fountain is Monterrey Square. Centered in the lush greenery of the park is the monument to Gen. Casimir Pulaski, the American Revolutionary War hero who was killed in the defense of the city.

Flanking this square is the Congregation Mickve IsraelSynagogue, which is third oldest Jewish congregation in America (1733)

Madison Square

Laid out in 1837, this square is named for the fourth American, President James Madison. In the center of this square is a statue dedicated to the memory of Revolutionary War era Sgt. William Jasper, shown hoisting a flag. He died of wounds in the Siege of Savannah. He was only 29.

Relax on a park bench and meet the locals under a magnificent live oak tree, or enjoy a refreshing stroll through Savannah’s Squares.

Glorious Galatoire's

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Wed, 01 Aug 2012 15:41:00 +0000

“I knew him,” says the elderly waiter. “He would sit at his favorite corner table in the front window.” The server continues, “But sometimes he would sit over by the pillar, reading a book.”

“Him” is the acclaimed Southern playwright Tennessee Williams, and we are in his favorite restaurant, Galatoire’s on Bourbon St. in the Vieux Carre of New Orleans.

Serving traditional French Creole food in high style, Galatoire’s has been a favorite of many patrons for 105 years. Historically, many would wait hours in long lines until a table opens up. (Seating on the main floor is first come first served, although reservations are now taken for second floor dining these days)

It’s the kind of restaurant where meals are served by jacketed waiters. Dishes are served on real china that is laid on linen tablecloths. The silverware is real silver and jackets are required for gentlemen after 5 pm weekdays and all day Sunday.

Many of the recipes and traditions were brought here from France by the original owner, Jean Galatoire. The timeless, award winning menu has changed little in its years of operation.

Lunch begins with a warm baguette—its thin veneer of toasty-crisp crust encasing an airy crumb. It’s as luscious as any to be found in a Parisian sidewalk café. The bread is served with double pats of salty rich creamy butter that rivals the pale smooth gold of Normandie butter.

Shrimp remoulade, a favorite chilled appetizer, is a staple in this town. We had it paired with crabmeat maison. The combination was a delicate balance of richness and spice. Best of all, the recipe can be found on their website.

We ordered a steaming bowl of rich bouillabaisse and delicate redfish smothered in jumbo lump crabmeat. I began to wonder if Stella and Blanche might have ordered this for supper in Streetcar Named Desire.

Guests are invited to savor the experience, table hop and bask in the ambience.

Galatoire’s is at 209 Bourbon St. in New Orleans. Just look for the longest line on a Friday night in the Big Easy. Telephone: 504.525.2021 Dining room is open Sunday from Noon – 10 pm. Monday-CLOSED, Tuesday – Saturday 11:30 am – 10 pm

Savannah Squares

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Tue, 22 May 2012 21:23:00 +0000

300 years ago James E. Oglethorpe and his band of 120 colonists left England to establish a colony in the New World. He named it “Georgia” after the king who granted him the charter. Georgia was to be the last of the 13 original colonies.

On arrival, he laid out the city of Savannah in 8 block “wards” --each having a small park (square) in its center. The original 4 squares grew to 24 by 1851. Today, visitors can enjoy each one as unique with it’s own special charm.

Forsythe Park:

One of the bigger parks in the historic district of Savannah, Forsythe Park covers 30 acres. Its fountain dates from 1858, and you may recognize it from the movie “Forrest Gump.” Stroll around the 1-mile perimeter to see some of the prettiest restored houses in town.

Wright Square:

Girl Scouts young and old visit this square to see the Gordon Monument (1883). It honors William Gordon who founded of the Central Georgia Railroad.

But it’s his granddaughter they celebrate. Juliet Gordon Low founded the Girl Scouts here in Savannah (1912).

Curiously, this monument sits atop the burial mound of a Creek Indian Chief named Tomochichi. He built peace between the two groups facilitating the success of the colony.

Monterey Square:

Flanking one whole side of Monterey square is the exquisite Williams-Mercer house. It’s in this very house that the shooting of Danny Hansford took place in John Berendt’s book, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The story is true, and visitors can tour the house and gardens.

The square’s name refers to General Zachary Taylor’s victory in Monterrey, Mexico (1846). Yet in the center of the square there is also monument to General Casmir Pulaski, killed in the Revolutionary War during the Siege of Savannah.

Telfair Square:

This square is surrounded by the Telfair Art Museum, the oldest art museum in the Southeast. It is the original site of the royal governors residence. Trinity United Methodist Church and the more modern Jepson Center for the arts surround the other sides.

Strolling through these shady open centers visitors can enjoy a cool breeze, read the historic plaques, admire the beauty of the local architecture, or sit on a park bench and enjoy a snack, or simply people watch.

What’s your favorite square?

Red Hot Red Door Records

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Fri, 04 May 2012 19:56:00 +0000

There’s no menu. A chalkboard hangs on a back wall behind the counter. It’s here that you’ll see a short list of sandwiches, dogs, toppings and specialties. If you’d like a beer, there’s a smaller board listing domestic, import and specialty brews. Or you can wash down a bag of chips with soft drinks chilling in the cooler.

Sit on a tall chrome stool at the ceramic-tiled bar. You can hear soft strains of oldies coming from a turntable just behind you. It’s perched on the end of long table covered with cardboard boxes filled with records. “LP’s” as they used to be called, long before 8-track tapes and cassettes or even iPods came onto the scene.

You can catch a glimpse of fresh hot dogs cooking on a grill. Their sizzling scent drifts around a curtain of vinyl records suspended on chains.

Someone from behind calls out “how ya doin’ today?”

Red Door Records is a friendly place. It attracts a cross-section of folks from the university, the town and travelers who wander in. Diners relax at the bistro tables or the long bar, clicking away on laptops, chatting or reading. Someone works a crossword puzzle over in the corner.

There’s always some fun activity underway--be it movie nite, music bingo, or a pop-culture trivia contest the 1^st and 3^rd Fridays of the month. On this afternoon the staff was ramping up for International Record Store Day, planning designer T-shirts, live music and a hot dog eating contest.

Vinyl in a hot dog diner? Is it a record store or a restaurant?

It’s both, and doing it well.

There’s no mistaking it’s a record shop with all the LPs cleverly hung, boxed or mounted on the walls. In a day when most turntables and record players are gathering dust in thrift shops, Jessica, Red Door Record’s proprietor, does a thriving business reselling these gems.

Even if you’re not looking to buy or sell records, it’s worth a visit. Coming from Chicago, we were in search of a good hot dog. Not an easy task here in the land of ribs, burgers and Southern-fried foods. We found it here!

“It had been my dream to open a used record store,” says Jessica. “But we needed something else to bring in the business.”

She points to an album cover mounted over the window. On its cover is a hot dog drizzled with mustard, nestled in a bun. “That was my inspiration for records and hot dogs.”

The restaurant is now offering craft, imported and domestic beer. Soon there will be booths to provide additional seating.

The menu is limited but well done and consistently good. Try a chicken salad sandwich, a (soy) veggie dog, or the best slaw dog you’ve ever tasted. There’s soda, tea, beer or bottled water if you’re thirsty.

Like the artwork on the walls? Make an offer, and you might walk out with some vintage records, a full stomach and something nice for your art collection.

Red Door Records is a fun place for great food, good oldies music and killer slaw dogs. Even Flat Stanley stopped in for lunch one afternoon. Eat, hang out, and pick up a copy of The Glass Onion to find out what’s happening in town. Want to find out what’s new at the store? You can follow them on MySpace and Facebook.

Red Door Records is located at 136 N. Ashley St. in Valdosta GA. Close to VSU campus. Doors open at 11:30 am every day except Sunday. Monday through Wednesday it closes at 6 pm, but stays open late Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Most of the menu items are under $4.

Flat Stanley's Adventures in Georgia

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 16:42:00 +0000

After reading Jeff Brown's "Flat Stanley," Alyssa sent me her cutout version of the main character. She asked if I would show him around and document his adventure. Here is my response:

Flat Stanley arrived in Valdosta, Georgia on a busy Tuesday morning in April. The town is nicknamed “The Azalea City” (azaleas are a pretty flowering bush that blooms in the early springtime)

Valdosta is 1,000 miles south of Chicago. Stanley had come a long, long way.

He wondered what wonderful things he could find there, so he read The Valdosta Daily Times. In it he found things to do and places to go.

"Where shall I visit first", he wondered? " I’ll ride into town and see what there is to see."

Along the way he saw many flowers already in bloom. He learned that it almost never snows in south Georgia. Even the winter is warm. You never have to wear gloves or a hat, unless you want to.

There are many pine trees here, and they grow very tall.

In the town square, Stanley was happy to see a Welcome sign.

He looked around and saw the Courthouse. In front of the Courthouse is a statue honoring important people of the town.

Stanley also saw a very old church.

Stanley likes flowers so much he decided to visit The Crescent Center. All the garden clubs in town meet here and plant pretty flowers.

Next, Stanley went to the pecan store. He learned that pecans grow on trees that are planted in large groves. When the pecans are ripe the farmer shakes the trees to make them fall to the ground. Then the pecans are brought here to be shelled and packaged.

Next door to the pecan factory is a farmers market. The townspeople shop for vegetables here.

Seeing the pecans and vegetables was making Stanley hungry. He drove by the grocery store called Winn-Dixie.

But he was too hungry to wait, so he went to the Red Door Record store.

He was happy to see that he could get a slaw dog there. In the South people eat coleslaw on their hot dogs.

On the way back to his new friend’s house, he drove by the big University in town, called Valdosta State University. "Maybe I can go to college here when I grow up," he thought.

The next day, Flat Stanley went back home to his friend. "I can’t wait to tell Alyssa all about my adventures in Georgia!"

Thomasville Treats

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 22:36:00 +0000

Maybe it was the image of a fresh strawberry meringue cake on the cover that caught my eye. I began to flip through the April 2012 issue of Southern Living magazine and found an article about a specialty cheese shop not an hour’s drive away.

The Sweet Grass Dairy Cheese Shop on Broad Street in Thomasville, GA is owned by a local couple who sell cheese made at their nearby farm. Among the favorites are a Camembert-style cheese, a semi-soft gouda and a savory blue named after one of their sons.

Yet there’s more than cheese in the shop. Just inside the door visitors are treated to a sampler table holding a bowl of golden olive oil and plate of crusty bread squares for dipping.

Along the walls are rows of jams, jellies, fine wines, crackers, spreads and cellophane bags of pecans.

Toward the back is a refrigerated display case where you’ll find a tempting variety of cheeses—some local and some imported along with different flavored salamis. You can ask for a taste.

We came to buy cheese but stayed for a lunch—a toasted sandwich with two kinds of salami, mustard, and smoky mayo on gluten-free ciabatta.

Dubbed the “Barcelona”, it is one of 5 delicious sandwiches on the lunch menu that is served with a choice of Zapps chips or mixed Geek olives. There is a selection of beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages to complement the meal.

But the real star is the charcuterie plate of 3 cheeses paired with jam or fresh pecans drizzled with wildflower honey. The garlic and chive moo paired with Emily G’s Blackberry Vanilla Jam of Love (center) tastes like cheesecake on a cracker. I finished the entire scoop and bought more to take home.

Tucked away in the back corner is a tiny restroom. It’s walls are covered with awards in various categories of artisanal cheeses from The American Cheese Society. It’s no wonder they ship these handcrafted cheeses to chefs and retailers all over Georgia and Florida.

You can visit the store weekdays from 10 am until 8 pm and 7 pm on Saturday (closed Sunday and Monday), or visit their website at www.sweetgrassdairy.com to order on line.

Going from Eeww to Aaahh in 2 Days

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 18:53:00 +0000

Ever wonder how a leaky pool gets fixed and prepped for the swim season?

Step 1: Start with a hole in the ground, filled with 21,000 gallons of lime green colored water. No it’s not a special effect--think of it as a giant Petri dish filled with algae.

Step 2: Steam off the surface. This clears off the slime and softens the vinyl liner.

Step 3: Slice then peel off the old liner. Oh … guess I wasn’t expecting that underneath.

Step 4: Resurface with a skim coat.

Step 5: Open a surprisingly small cardboard box and roll out the new liner.

Step 6: Overlay the liner onto the sandy concrete base. Think of it as a supersized tablecloth.

Step 7: Add a little water and pity the frogman who has to dive into 50-degree water to install the drain cover in the deep end.

Step 8: Make a cut out for the steps.

Step 9: Add water with a garden hose. A lot more water. Keep adding water all day and all night. Have freakish nightmares about your upcoming water bill.

Step 10: Grab a beach towel. Put on your swim fins. Wait for warm weather.

Jennings GP

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 23:34:00 +0000

The whine of an 848-cc engine began to build in the distance. Louder and longer until it reached maximum crescendo nearing the corner of turn 1. Suddenly the racing Ducati flew down the straightaway. In a moment it was gone, but the sound of the engine lingered. Then, you could hear the rider shifting gears as it headed into the next leg. You could just feel him leaning into the turn—knee to the ground, torso and leg forming a perfect “Z”; shoulders at a 45-degree angle. Then straightening up in a single smooth roll. Top speed at this track is 150+ mph.

It was a practice day, and we were the only visitors at north Florida’s motorcycles only road racing track. Jennings GP has two miles of smooth black asphalt with 14 turns, and is surrounded by chain link fencing.

We had parked on the grass between a couple of muscle pick-ups, all chrome trimmed and shiny in the bright sun. Nearby, a handful of track crew sat on the wood steps of a small outbuilding that sold tickets and tee-shirts.

The paddock held mostly Ducati motorcycles, and riders were splitting their time between track school and taking laps.

Under the bright red tents you could see racing bikes braced in stands, wheels peeking out from under electric tire warmers.

I walked over to the track itself. The sun was warm and dry grass crackled under my step. A few sharp blades poked their way through the holes in my croc shoes. Flies buzzed around a sign warning spectators to stay at least 25 feet from the fence. On race day, there would be hundreds of race fans in the crowd, but on this day I had the track to myself.

Jennings GP is open to motorcycle riders with any level of experience. Newcomer, intermediate or fast riders can get track experience and go to racing school. Even if you just want to watch others ride, visitors can join the fans and enjoy the thrill of racing up close.

How to Make Vietnamese Rice Pancakes

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 23:21:00 +0000

Ingredients

Rice flour... Coconut milk ... Salt

Directions

Depart Chicago’s O’Hare airport on a 15 hour flight to Hong Kong. Change planes then board a 2-hour flight to Ho Chi Minh City in the south of Vietnam. Once there book a day tour of the Mekong Delta

Soon you will find yourself sharing a wooden boat with a handful of newly-made friends. Sip fresh juice from a hollowed out coconut as you cross the Mekong river. This mighty river that stretches over 3,000 miles from the Tibetan plateau to the South China Sea. On the way to one of its tiny islands near the river’s mouth you will see a number of large and small cargo boats, and glide past floating fish farms.

Here and there you might see youngsters dive to the river bottom to pull up handfuls of mud, loaded thick and high onto a nearby sampan. It will be sold as fertilizer at a nearby market.

On landing, cross a small bridge to begin your walking tour of the island. Along a footpath cut into the jungle, birds chirp and monkeys shriek and growl. Something moves in the brush at your feet. Keep moving!

A weathered brick building in the clearing houses a small group of local artisans. In the corner steam rises from a charcoal oven covered by a metal pan. The scent of cooking sugar and coconut fills the air.The guide will ask if anyone would like to learn how to make pancakes. This is your big chance!

See one, do one …

She sits in front of a bamboo table ringed with drying cakes. In the center is a bowl of thick, milky liquid which is scooped out with a metal ladle.

Deftly, she gives a quick demonstration of how this local delicacy is made. Now it’s your turn.

Carefully pour a generous portion of white goo onto the hot purple mat and give it a quick swirl. Cover with a bamboo hat for a few minutes. Then carefully wedge a long spatula under the steamed, delicate opaque disc.

Quickly, lift it off hot surface without the letting the sides stick.Ease it onto the bamboo table for final cooling. Tear off a small piece to nibble. It tastes a little sweet with a hint of coconut.

Your mentor smiles encouragement. Cameras snap and a few chuckles arise from the small gathering.

Success! You’ve made a local staple, and a great memory.

Drivin' on Daytona Beach

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:06:00 +0000

You can smell the salty air long before this famous Florida beach appears on the horizon. And what makes this beach so special is that it’s one of the few places where you can actually drive ON the sand.

For a mere $5, you can drive past fire pit rings, brightly painted ice cream trucks or beachcombers snoozing under a striped umbrella. Here and there a kite tugs a child along the sand, so be sure to observe the 10 mph speed limit.

Drivers can relive a dream that began in the early 1900’s when the hard packed sand of the local beach became the Daytona Beach Road Course. This is where land speed records were set back in the 1920s and 1930s. In later years fans would celebrate the names of Red Byron, Marshall Teague and Lee Petty.

The last beach race was held on the sand in 1958--a year before the first Daytona 500 was held at the new Daytona International Speedway in 1959.

This is also where NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing), the internationally popular sport, got it’s start.

NASCAR headquarters is still located in Daytona Beach. There are track tours and a museum at the Speedway for race fans to enjoy.

Daytona beach is open to vehicles from sunrise to sunset Nov. 1 through April 30, and from 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. the rest of the year.

Munching at The Marietta Diner

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Anne Lonze Kennedy) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 18:05:00 +0000

The parking lot is filled with cars at all times of the day or night. Shiny chrome doors flap open to admit hungry diners while letting out small clusters of happy faces. Step inside this big shiny building and you will become one of over 2,000 visitors a day ready to eat at this famous roadside restaurant just northwest of Atlanta, Georgia in the city of Marietta. While it may be local, the diner’s heritage goes back to its Greek owner and his New York City roots.

Here, the scent of freshly made desserts mingle with the aroma of crisp fried bacon and the tang of pickles, homemade soups and oversized tuna salad-on-rye sandwiches. You can almost hear the sizzle of burgers as the staff brings out the heavily laden serving trays. Have a taste for spanakopita at midnight? They’ll carve out a generous piece for you from one of the more than 30 trays a chef prepares fresh each day.

Wine? In a diner? Yes, and beer too, which complement any of the nearly 500 items on the menu. As you leaf through the pages of the menu, you’ll find long lists of tasty entrees, appetizers, soups and specialty fare. The food is all-American but includes a number of ethnic Greek, Italian and Spanish dishes. Portions are oversize and all of it is delicious. There’s even a bakery, and a take out section. But most of the patrons linger over large plates of breakfast or lunch in the unexpected charm of the classic dining room décor featuring dark wood, sparkling mirrors and art deco fixtures.

I should have taken more pictures, but I was too busy eating.

The Marietta Diner is located at 306 Cobb Parkway South in Marietta, Georgia. If you go, bring a big appetite, and you won’t leave hungry.