Southern Hospitality Magazine

12/11/2024

11/11/2024

Given its proximity to Fort Liberty (formerly known as Fort Bragg), it's not surprising that Fayetteville, N.C., has one of the largest percentages of veteran-owned businesses of any mid-sized metro area in the United States, furthering the city's vibrancy.

So, if you are planning a getaway to Fayetteville and want to say "thank you" to veterans, a great way to do so is to patronize their businesses. Here are some to check out.

𝐕𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐧-𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬, 𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬, & 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬

• Dirtbag Ales Brewery and Taproom
https://dirtbagales.com

Owned by former Army medic Vernardo “Tito” Simmons-Valenzuela, Dirtbag Ales Brewery and Taproom specializes in handcrafted, small-batch brews, from classic ales and lagers to bold experimental brews like the cold-brew mocha porter.

Enjoy a laid-back atmosphere with handmade wooden tables and barstools, artsy recycled accessories, and locally sourced, chef-driven pub food at Dirtbag’s onsite restaurant, Napkins.

• Rude Awakening coffee house
https://www.rudeawakening.net

Opened in 1999, Rude Awakening Coffee House heralded Fayetteville's downtown renaissance. Owners Bruce and Molly Arnold renovated the circa 1914 building, which once housed Brady's Soda Shop, to its previous splendor.

• Curate Essentials
https://curateessentials.com

Located in a stately white 1914 home with a wraparound porch with twinkling lights and rocking chairs, Curate Essentials makes an impression before you even walk in the front door.

The herbal apothecary stocks pampering and healthcare products, with nearly everything made on-site. Discover all-natural soaps, balms, hand-painted and eco-friendly scarves, salt scrubs, herbal remedies, teas, jewelry and decorative items.

• Bath Snob
https://www.bathsnob.com

Bath Snob, owned by a mother-daughter team, offers luxury bath products designed to elevate self-care routines.

The shop uses high-quality, natural ingredients and offers a selection of bath bombs, salts, scrubs, and candles, all crafted to promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

• Uptown’s Chicken & Waffles

Uptown's Chicken & Waffles offers diners the uniquely Southern foodie experience known as Chicken and Waffles. The restaurant also serves other classics, such as Shrimp and Grits, and Fried Green Tomatoes.

The restaurant is owned by Chef Judy McLean, who's competed on Food Network's "Chopped" and has a longstanding reputation as one of Fayetteville's most talented chefs and caterers.

• Anchor Allie's
https://tinyurl.com/yckyayr6

A new addition to Fayetteville's dining scene, Anchor Allie blends a relaxed atmosphere with a military-themed menu inspired by owner Allie Stephen's travels.

The menu celebrates local flavors and fresh ingredients with items like the Black Hawk or Green Beret Burgers. Patrons can sip on a diverse selection of cocktails (including eight different versions of espresso martinis), wine or craft beer on tap from local veteran-owned breweries.

• The MacPherson House Bed & Breakfast
https://www.macphersonhouse.com

Owners Katy and Michael Stevick discovered Fayetteville when the Army assigned Michael to Fort Bragg in 2013, and they quickly fell in love with America's hometown.

Enamored with the charm of the downtown historic district, the Stevicks created a luxurious place to stay worthy of the downtown experience. Located in the Historic Haymount District, the MacPherson House is an intimate bed and breakfast featuring five guest rooms in the main house and a private cottage.

Information courtesy of Lou Hammond Group and DistiNCtly Fayetteville NC

Visit North Carolina

photo personal collection (2021)

11/11/2024

Did you know that Chattanooga, Tenn., is where the United State's highest military award for valor was first presented for actions during the Civil War. On March 25, 1863, the first Medal of Honor was presented to Private Jacob Parrott for his part in the "The Great Locomotive Chase" that ended about 20 miles outside of the city.

So, it makes sense that Chattanooga is home to the Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center, whose exhibits highlight the stories of those who exuded patriotism, citizenship, courage, integrity, sacrifice and commitment.

Learn more at https://www.mohhc.org .

On this Veterans Day, plan to visit museums, such as the Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center or other military museums in the South or across the country. For inspiration, check Southern Hospitality Magazine's nine museums that should not be missed at https://tinyurl.com/mryzjber .

photos personal collection (2022)

Visit Chattanooga Tennessee Vacation

11/11/2024

02/11/2024

New at Southern Hospitality Magazine ---> check out some of the events happening around the region this month at "November is Here,"

In a blink of an eye, or rather a turn of the calendar page, we've moved from the spooky season to the start of the festive season.And, boy, does it begin immediately with Shepherd's Christmas at Shepherd of the Hills (Nov. 1 - Dec. 31) in Branson, Mo., Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas (Nov. 1 -...

31/10/2024

to all of the ghouls and goblins out there.

For those who crave year-round throughout the South, y'all are in luck. In addition to Southern Hospitality Magazine's coverage:

🕯️11 Spooktacularly Haunted Sites in the South Not to Miss
https://tinyurl.com/5aza3d87

🕯️Easy Ways to Experience Year-Round Haunting Travels
https://tinyurl.com/4nmrekau

🕯️"Hauntingly" Good Times at "Spirited" Southern Properties, https://tinyurl.com/4k8m4tjz

🕯️Discover the Eerie Side of Destinations With a Ghost Tour/Walk, https://tinyurl.com/2ujefs6s

🕯️Dinner, Drinks, Tales and (Potentially) Spirits, https://tinyurl.com/3f465xcd

There are numerous places throughout the region where it is said that restless spirits still roam.

• Visit Missouri
https://www.visitmo.com/art.../missouris-most-haunted-places

• Arkansas - The Natural State
https://www.arkansas.com/articles/haunted-arkansas

https://www.arkansas.com/articles/arkansas-urban-legends

• Travel Texas
https://tinyurl.com/mtr8n84j

• Explore Louisiana
https://www.explorelouisiana.com/articles/things-do-haunted-places-louisiana

• Visit Mississippi
https://visitmississippi.org/go/haunted-mississippi

• Sweet Home Alabama
https://alabama.travel/article/the-most-haunted-places-in-alabama

https://alabamasfrontporches.org/tell-a-story/ghost-stories

• Tennessee Vacation
https://www.tnvacation.com/articles/fright-tennessees-creepiest-haunted-locations

• Explore Georgia
https://www.exploregeorgia.org/haunted-georgia

• VISIT FLORIDA
https://tinyurl.com/bd575yx5

https://tinyurl.com/3n5uxc5s

• Discover South Carolina
https://discoversouthcarolina.com/articles/thrills-and-chills

https://discoversouthcarolina.com/articles/10-haunted-south-carolina-inns-rooms-with-a-boo

https://discoversouthcarolina.com/articles/savor-the-supernatural-at-these-five-restaurants

• Visit North Carolina
https://www.visitnc.com/first-in-fright

• Virginia is for Lovers
https://www.virginia.org/blog/post/virginias-haunted-sites

• Kentucky Tourism
https://www.kentuckytourism.com/haunted-kentucky

• West Virginia Tourism
https://wvtourism.com/west-virginia-paranormal-trail

Click on the photos below to learn more.

31/10/2024

Perfect for a

It's no secret that every Southern destination, large and small, has its share of legends. Yazoo City, Miss., is one such place that comes to mind.

Found within the historic section of Glenwood Cemetery is the gravesite for "The Witch of Yazoo," surrounded by chain links. No proper name was given, but the witch is said to be responsible for Yazoo City burning in 1904. The complete story can be found at http://visityazoo.org/witch-of-yazoo .

Her legend became better known thanks to Willie Morris' book, "Good Old Boy," published in 1971. Yes, the same Morris of "My Dog Skip," among other books. By the way, Morris' grave is located about 50 feet away.

Visit Yazoo Visit Mississippi

29/10/2024

It's , and do you know about the WNC Cat Museum in Sylva, N.C? The museum houses an over 30-year private collection of eclectic cat-related antiquities, like a real 31 B.C. Egyptian cat mummy, art pieces, collectibles and more.

Whether you are a cat-lover or not, you'll enjoy visiting and taking in everything.

Learn more at https://www.wnccatmuseum.org .

North Carolina Mountain Towns of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro, and Sylva Visit North Carolina

photos personal collection

22/10/2024

15/10/2024

Update

We're reopening a few more areas of Great Smoky Mountains National Park this week.

Lakeview Drive in North Carolina reopened today. Check out the newly paved road for your next scenic drive! Most trails in the Lakeview area are open.

Smokemont and Deep Creek campgrounds will reopen this Wednesday. Reservations are available at www.recreation.gov/camping/gateways/2739

Please check current conditions before any visit to the park: www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/conditions.htm

NPS Photo

13/10/2024

Update Many Floridians across the state have been profoundly impacted by Hurricane Milton and other recent storms. Florida's Historic Coast (St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and The Beaches) feels and shares their pain as it has endured many similar challenges, recovering from Hurricanes Matthew, Irma, and others. The message for its neighbors is simple: we know what you are going through and are here for you.

In light of the extreme damage suffered by much of Florida, the hospitality and tourism community has come together to welcome Florida residents affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. With plenty of rooms, locally-owned restaurants and coffee shops for dining, and attractions and boutiques that offer a welcome distraction, the area can provide a safe and welcome haven while much of Florida begins the hard work of recovery and rebuilding.

"Our area is extremely fortunate to have escaped with minor damage," said Susan Phillips, President and CEO of St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and The Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau, in a released statement. "We understand that’s not the case across much of our state. Many of our fellow Floridians have lost their homes, the very place where you feel secure and comfortable.

To help those who helped us in the past, we want to open our doors for our fellow neighbors so they can rest and recover from the shock of this historic storm."

"Something I’ve always admired is how supportive this community is,” continued Phillips. "We’ve been through damaging storms and know the value of a helping hand. It’s time to offer a hand in any way we can. For visitors, that means opening our community and being warm and welcoming hosts."

St. Augustine, Florida / Viaja San Agustín has compiled special accommodations, dining, and activities discounts for displaced Florida residents on a dedicated webpage: www.FHC4U.com .

photo personal collection

St. Augustine, Florida VISIT FLORIDA

12/10/2024

It's . For those not in the know, gumbo is Louisiana's official state dish. It's also a dish that has sparked great debate for the ages, and much like politics and football, those who are asked tend to have strong beliefs.

So, here we go.

Now, when it comes to , are you team potato salad in gumbo or team potato salad as a side? Now, if the idea of gumbo and potato salad being paired up seems odd, then you need to book a getaway in Louisiana's Cajun Bayou, where it'll make sense, and you'll get some good eating — thus a win-win.

A handful of chefs from the area were asked, and responses were mixed, as expected.

🥄 Born and raised in Thibodaux, Chef Brent Daigle of Grady V's grew up watching his parents and other family members cook. His Maw Maw was behind every tasty dish placed on the table for the holidays, and his dad’s classic Cajun cuisine was an extra reason his family looked forward to the weekends.

Stance on Potato Salad: "For me, it has to go in the gumbo. It’s just how I was raised. You have potato salad, and you put it in the gumbo. I mean, if you really want to, you can put in a little scoop at a time … but it’s gotta go in there."

~ https://www.gradyvs.com

🥄 Chef Kevin Templet of Fremin's Restaurant(Thibadoux) was born and raised on Bayou Lafourche, so his culinary inspiration comes from local seafood and the other flavors found in the area. He’s been an essential figure behind Fremin’s numerous accolades and has earned several individual recognitions as well.

Stance on Potato Salad: "I guess it’s a personal choice amongst everybody, but I’m putting my potato salad in the gumbo for sure."

~ https://www.fremins.net

Click on the photos to read more.

quotes and photos courtesy of mbpr! (Mindy Bianca Public Relations) and Louisiana's Cajun Bayou

12/10/2024

update

We are pleased to announce that Sandpearl Resort is reopening on October 12. Caretta's will also be opening for dinner service at 5:30pm and then resume normal operating hours on October 13 serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

We are grateful for the concern expressed and we wish a speedy recovery to anyone who was affected by Hurricane Milton.

If you have an upcoming reservation and have questions on specific amenities and services at the hotel, please call us at 727.441.2425.

11/10/2024

Update

We can’t wait to welcome you back soon! 💚

11/10/2024

Update

News Release—The National Park Service continues to assess conditions and address damage following the impacts from Hurricane Helene in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park experienced substantial damage particularly in North Carolina, including Balsam Mountain, Big Creek and Cataloochee Valley.

Within the park, the Cataloochee Valley saw the most significant impacts from Hurricane Helene and will be closed until further notice as staff address damage. Flooding from Rough Fork Creek washed out several roads in the valley. Upper Cataloochee Valley Road saw the worst damage and is not drivable. Various levels of erosion and flooding impacted all trails in Cataloochee Valley and nearly all footlog bridges in the area were washed away during the storm. Cataloochee Valley also experienced fallen trees, flooding at campsites and damaged power lines. There were impacts to historic buildings, particularly the Caldwell Barn, which park staff are currently working to stabilize.

The Balsam Mountain and Big Creek areas are also currently closed until further notice due to storm damage and safety concerns.

Most trails on the Tennessee side of the park are open; several trails on the North Carolina side are closed. The park continues to assess the trails on the eastern end of the park to find the western edge of the damage in the backcountry. Examples of trails that were severely impacted include Big Creek Trail, which saw damage throughout its length and lost a 70-foot steel bridge and its abutments. Gunter Fork Trail experienced a landslide that took out 100 feet of trail.

While there has been some significant damage in the eastern area of the park, many miles of trails in western sections of the park have low impacts and few downed trees. Visitors planning to hike in the Smokies are encouraged (as always) to check the park website and/or talk to staff in visitor centers or the backcountry office about current trail conditions.

Most park roads are open with a few exceptions including Foothills Parkway East, Lakeview Drive, roads in Cataloochee Valley, roads in Balsam Mountain area and Parsons Branch Road (visitors should check the park map). US441/Newfound Gap Road is open 24 hours a day. Commercial vehicles are prohibited in the park, with the exception of the Spur.

All park visitor centers and most park facilities are open. All Tennessee park campgrounds are currently open. North Carolina campgrounds are currently closed, and park staff continue to assess for when they can be safely opened.

Link to release and additional photos: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/news/update-on-great-smoky-mountains-national-park-following-hurricane-helene.htm

11/10/2024

Update The Blue Ridge Parkway has officially reopened from Milepost 0 to 198 in Virginia, which includes the portion in the Roanoke Region in Virginia's Blue Ridge. Visitors to the region will be able to access iconic locations such as the Peaks of Otter (Milepost 86), Roanoke County's Explore Park (Milepost 115), Rocky K**b (Milepost 161), and Mabry Mill (Milepost 176), as well as numerous scenic overlooks and vistas.

"We are extremely thankful that much of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia has reopened to the public following Hurricane Helene," said Landon Howard, president of Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge, in a released statement. "Virginia's Blue Ridge region (the Cities of Roanoke & Salem and the Counties of Botetourt, Franklin and Roanoke) was fortunate to have sustained minimal damage during the storm, and our hearts go out to our neighbors who are still cleaning up from Helene."

Often known as "America's Favorite Drive," the Blue Ridge Parkway showcases the natural beauty of the region, especially during this time of year when fall foliage is nearing its peak (anticipated peak: end of October).

Roanoke, the largest city on Virginia's Blue Ridge Parkway, is an ideal home base for exploring the area. Local businesses, including accommodations, restaurants and attractions, are open and welcoming visitors. Popular festivals and events, such as the
Roanoke GO Outside Festival ( https://roanokegofest.com ; Oct. 18 - 20) and the Blue Ridge Folklife Festival ( https://blueridgeinstitute.org/blue-ridge-folklife-festival ; Oct. 26) will be taking place.

The metro mountain adventure of Virginia's Blue Ridge offers outdoor and city-life experiences alike, including arts and culture, vibrant culinary and craft beverage offerings, biking, paddling, hiking and more.

The Blue Ridge Parkway in N.C. remains closed as crews continue emergency stabilization and damage assessments following Hurricane Helene. Updates will be posted on the Blue Ridge Parkway website at www.nps.gov/blri and on the park's social media platforms at

To support those in need, consider contributing to the following organizations:

• Feeding Southwest Virginia
https://feedingswva.org

• United Way of Southwest Virginia
https://www.unitedwayswva.org

• Cardinal News - SWVA Donation Resources
https://cardinalnews.org/2024/09/30/flood-aftermath-where-to-find-help-how-to-help

• American Red Cross
https://www.redcross.org

Information and photo courtesy of Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge

09/10/2024

and Update

In the wake of Hurricane Helene's devastating impact and the impending impact of Hurricane Milton, the Myrtle Beach community is coming together to support those affected by these storms.

If you've been displaced or have evacuated your homes, we're here to help. Several of our local hotels are offering discounted rates for evacuees, and businesses across the Grand Strand are providing extra resources, discounts and activities to offer some relief during these challenging times. More local businesses are offering their assistance and resources every day – check the link to stay up-to-date on what resources are being offered. https://bit.ly/3YgCanU