The Atlanta Food Truck Park and Market got off to a rolling start at its grand opening event on April 26, attracting a hearty crowd of 4000.

What was once a run-down, overgrown parking lot has been transformed into an al fresco dining experience resembling a laid-back picnic—from the multi-colored umbrellas to the handmade tables topped with mason jars full of wildflowers. 

The park features up to 15 different food trucks for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late night dining (open until 11 p.m.). When it comes to the nosh itself, you'll find everything from Korean-style tacos at Yumbii to brisket and sweet potato soufflé at Sweet Auburn BBQ. We have a sweet spot for King of Pops, a darling popsicle cart serving up chic combinations like Lavender Milk and Honey and Chocolate Sea Salt. Better yet, they use local, seasonal ingredients in all of their pops.

When guests aren't chowing down, they are encouraged to play a game of corn hole on the AFTPM-personalized boards or bocce ball and horseshoes on the grassy field below.

You never would have guessed that childhood friends and business partners Howard Hsu and Brian Harvin signed a lease on the three-acre lot just six weeks earlier. 

Hsu, a self-proclaimed “restaurant guy,” and Harvin, a purveyor of commercial real estate, were catering events out of Hsu’s Sweet Auburn BBQ food truck when they brainstormed the beginnings of a permanent food cart space. “As a member of the Atlanta food truck community, I recognized the challenge that our city’s food trucks face in finding consistent, popular locations that are also convenient,” Hsu said. 

With hopes to increase exposure, drive business, and inspire street food concepts, the duo partnered with Hsu’s sister Anita to create the Atlanta Food Truck Park and Market. Their goal was to create a colorful community-driven site featuring the best meals on wheels, live music, artist showcases, and a weekend farmer’s market.

We'll check in with them down the road, but in the meantime, we suggest you stop by the AFTPM and get a taste of the action. It's delicious.

-Chelsea Bartel

Shovels & Rope

Name: Shovels & Rope
Hometown: Charleston, South Carolina

Sounds Like: A sweet blend of rock and country with twangy melodies that will get your feet moving.
The duo, consisting of Michael Trent and Cary Ann Hearst, perform with a medley of instruments including a snare, harmonica, guitars and tambourines. A tear in Cary Ann’s voice will take you back to the days of Tammy Wynette, as she sings heart-piercing lyrics laced with a gritty Southern sound.

If You Like: Townes Van Zandt, The Secret Sisters, Dead Fingers

Download: “Birmingham” The upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics is perfect for a summer day with the windows down. 

Shovels & Rope is currently on tour! Check out their schedule to see them live. 

By: Megan Holley 

Photo: Courtesy of James Beard Foundation

Birmingham’s own Chris Hastings, chef and owner of Hot and Hot Fish Club, took home a James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef: South this past Monday. We caught up with him to talk about what he’s currently cooking up for this weekend’s Atlanta Food & Wine Festival and beyond. 

What’s your favorite cookbook?
Under Pressure by Thomas Keller

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
It was at restaurant SHO in NYC. Shaun Hergatt's deep understanding of both flavor and technique, along with his discipline and precision, blew my mind both times I have dined at his restaurant. He’s a star.

Which item on the menu at Hot and Hot Fish Club best defines your style of cooking and why?
Being 17 years old, we have seen our food evolve so much that I am inclined to point to our more recent work as to what defines our cuisine. An example is The Shad Roe wrapped in Benton's bacon with McEwan & Sons white grits, wild watercress, Snow’s Bend English peas, crispy fried country ham, and a preserved lemon vinaigrette. For the second course, it would be a composed salad of Cullman County strawberries, compressed rhubarb, Marcona almonds, hearts of palm, and shaved celery with herb vinaigrette (pictured below). It’s very composed and technique driven with tons of flavor and balance, relative to its acidity.

Photo: Courtesy of Chris Hastings

Prep-purveyor Vineyard Vines might be based out of Connecticut, but the South has adopted its line of pastel-hued, casual living staples as its own. When there is an event that calls for dapper menswear and lady-like frocks, Vineyard Vines is there not only as a preferred brand for event goers, but often as an official sponsor. See Vineyard Vines' bowtie line for the Carolina Cup in March, and their official line of Derby-wear, ranging from a Churchill-dot dress and silk belts for the ladies to seersucker suits and caps for the guys.

For the Iroquois Steeplechase happening at Percy Warner Park in Nashville this weekend, Vineyard Vines hosted a bash at their Green Hills location in Nashville to benefit Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt and the Steeplechase. 

If you haven't gotten your Steeplechase looks yet (or if you're just looking to add some great pieces to your summer wardrobe), here are some of our favorite Vineyard Vines picks. 

Bitsy Dress, $285

Patchwork Madras Dress, $178

 
Bouquet Dress, $170

Island Dress, $178

Pink Ribbon Hat, $70

Little Harbour Whale Shirt, $99

Club Pants, $80

Derby Day Blazer, $550

Down the Stretch Canvas Club 

Photo courtesy Florida's Emerald Coast CVB

We can't help but be a tinge jealous when we see the pictures our travel editor Erin Street is Tweeting from her jaunt through the northern Gulf Coast (follow @ErinShawStreet to see what we mean). Endless blue waters, sugary white sand, and hour-old snapper for lunch—that's just what beach living is all about.

We help you get a little closer to your own beach vacation with today's deal from Sterling Resorts in Destin, Florida. With dozens of condo-style resorts dotting the idyllic beach town, you can choose from a cozy beachfront cottage, to a fully decked out four-bedroom condo complete with flat-screens and private balconies overlooking the gulf. 

SL Deal: Use code SLSPRING when booking to get 20-percent off any three-night getaway to Sterling's retreats in Destin. You'll also get two (2) free pizzas and unlimited DVD rentals; 12pm late checkout on day of departure; and exclusive savings to local shopping, dining and family attractions. 

Terms: Offer valid through June 1, 2012. Based on availability. Call 877/839-2309 or book online at SterlingResorts.com

Download our ultimate guide to summer in the Florida Panhandle to get the most out of your beach vacation.

Hear from three more Southern Nominees for James Beard Awards below. The ceremony takes place tonight in New York City. To purchase tickets, go to jamesbeard.org. If you can’t attend, check in on the live stream, broadcast from the website, or follow announcements on twitter @beardfounation or from our own Features Editor, Jennifer Cole @jennifervcole.

Photo: Courtesy of Blackberry Farm

Joseph Lenn
The Barn at Blackberry Farm
Walland, TN
Best Chef Nominee (Southeast)

What is your favorite cookbook?
The French Laundry. It was one of the first books I bought when I was in culinary school. I read it cover to cover and then read it again. There are so many things that made sense in the cookbook. Also, the stories and inspirations about the dishes really were just as important as the technique.

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
The tasting menu at WD-50 in New York City. I think I knew the inspiration behind almost every dish, however, the techniques used in many of the dishes were so innovative. There was a surprise with every dish and it really made me think about all of the senses while I ate.

Which  item on the menu at Blackberry Farm best defines your style of cooking and why?
Either the Trout with watercress, radishes and buttermilk consommé or Guinea and dumplings. One is inspired by Hesse Creek here at Blackberry Farm and the other is a take on a southern classic.

Photo: Courtesy of Cypress

Craig Dehli
Cypress
Charleston, SC
Best Chef Nominee (Southeast)

What is your favorite cookbook?
My favorite cookbook is The French Laundry by Thomas Keller. It had been the most inspiring book that I own. The stories and recipes teach respect and honesty.

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
Most inspiring meal was at Alla Spinna in Philadelphia, PA. I was with my parents and ordered the roasted pig head with rhubarb jam and toast. It was a quite the visual display fit for my carnivorous craving.

Which  item on the menu at Cypress best defines your style of cooking and why?
The 'Nduja salami. This Calabrian salami is served warm and is spreadable. The salami is made with fatty pork and hot pepper paste. The dish is simple and rustic. The flavor of the pepper makes you crave another bite and then another until it's gone. It shows craftsmanship, patience (6 months of waiting), restraint, and quality for the products that we work with.

Photo: Courtesy of Rosewood Hotels

Bruno Davaillon
Mansion Restaurant at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek
Dallas, TX
Best Chef Nominee (Southwest)

What is your favorite cookbook?
The Mansion's new cookbook, of course. I'm really thrilled about the release last month of The Mansion on Turtle Creek Cookbook: Haute Cuisine, Texas Style. It celebrates more than 30 years of culinary innovation at the Mansion Restaurant, so there are recipes from the past 30 years, in addition to a large amount of dishes from my time at the Mansion. There are also wonderful spotlights on the local vendors—meats, cheeses, grits, herbs, wine—that keep the flavors at the Mansion local and fresh.

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
Every meal I eat at Tei-An here is Dallas is inspiring. Chef Teiichi is doing some amazing things, and his restaurant has the soul and spirit of Asia. You feel like you're in another world when you're in his restaurant. Specifically, my favorite dish is house-made Soba Noodle with Wagyu Bolognese. Teiichi always finds a way to surprise me. This dish is packed with flavor and it’s rich and elegant at the same time. This is what happens when a Japanese master pays tribute to Italian food.

Which item on the menu at The Mansion Restaurant best defines your style of cooking and why?
Right now I would say the Flavor of Duck (it's also in the cookbook). It has classic, refined and simple flavors prepared with a French technique. I love clean flavors.

Birmingham sweetheart, Highlands Bar and Grill (pride and joy of Chef Frank Stitt) contends for this year’s James Beard Award in the Outstanding Restaurant category. The prestigious award honors an establishment in operation for 10+ years, that sets a national standard for atmosphere, service, and food quality. In light of his nomination, we talked with Frank about the emerging Southern food scene, Southern hospitality, and Pappy Van Winkle bourbon.

(Go to jamesbeard.org to purchase tickets to the awards event on Monday, May 7th in NYC. If you can’t attend, check in on the live stream, broadcast from the website, or follow announcements on twitter @beardfounation or from our own Features Editor, Jennifer Cole @jennifervcole.)

  
Photo: Courtesy of Frank Stitt

Which Southern city has the most exciting emerging food scene?
Charleston, because of the surrounding hill country, fresh seafood from the bays and marshes, and accessibility to local ingredients—it gives the exciting restaurants a lot of room for creativity and uniqueness.

What’s your favorite flavor?
That’s a tough one—it always depends on the season.

What's your favorite cookbook?
Richard Olney’s Simple French Food immediately comes to mind.  His passion and philosophical view on balancing technique and flavors have always been inspirational to me.

Who do you know that best embodies Southern hospitality?
John T. Edge, Patrick Dunne of Lucullus in New Orleans, and my mother.

What’s your favorite spot to eat in Birmingham?
A combination of Chez Fonfon, Bottega, and Highlands.

What’s your favorite Southern summer vegetable? How do you eat it?
It’s definitely a tie between okra, corn, eggplant, lady peas, and butterbeans. I like to put them together in a variation of succotash.

What dish on your menu (at Highlands) best represents your style of cooking?
Our seafood pirlau, braised rabbit, or any sort of bird—cooked two-ways—with seasonal vegetables.

Pimiento cheese or chicken salad?
Chicken salad.

Pork rinds or boiled peanuts?
Boiled Peanuts.

Sweet or unsweet?
Unsweet.

Pappy 20 or 23 year?
20 year.

Alabama or Auburn?
Alabama.

Bo Jackson knows charity. Bo knows kindness. Bo knows the towns and people of his state still need help.

But as his pal Lance Armstrong ribbed, "Bo don't know hills."

This is particularly funny if you remember the "Bo Knows" commercials, and his line as he pulls up on a bike: "Now where's that Tour de France thing?"

Last week, Jackson -- who was probably the world's most famous athlete in his prime -- pedaled 300 miles across Alabama to raise money for tornado relief in his home state. Bo asked several celebrity-athlete friends -- including Armstrong, Ken Griffey Jr., Picabo Street, and Al Joyner -- to join him the ride. And he invited the public to pedal beside them: On each 50-mile segment of the 6-day ride, 100 or so riders who donated at least $200 were allowed to join Bo's peloton.

I was lucky to be one of them. On Friday, April 27 -- the one-year anniversary of the deadly tornados -- Southern Living publisher Greg Schumann (below, right) and I hopped on our bikes for Day 5, a roughly 50-mile stretch from Jasper to Bessemer, Bo's hometown. I also rode on the final day, which ended in Tuscaloosa, the home of my alma mater.

Trek donated six souped-up Madone road bikes -- one for Bo to ride on each day of the journey -- to be auctioned off for the cause at the end of the ride. Each frame bore the name of the victims who died in the storm. One of them was Ashley Harrison, the young UA student we wrote about earlier this week. Her story touched us...and the Bo Bikes Bama crew. As you can see in the photo above, Bo is wearing her pink memorial bracelet, which reads: "I love you as big as the sky."

The day's ride began with a pep rally at an elementary school in Cordova,where many students had been directly affected by the storm. Bo, who overcame a stutter as an adult, gave a touching, flawless talk to the students, who waved hand-made signs that read, "Go Bo Go!" Some of the kids asked riders -- just everyday joes in the back -- to give them autographs, a touching request that would happen more than once on this ride. When one rider protested that he wasn't famous, the autograph-seeker said, "It don't matter. You rode just as far as the rest of 'em!" This was the first of many poignant moments of the day.

Lance Armstrong was nowhere to be seen at the ride start, to avoid stealing the spotlight from Bo. A few miles down the road, he rode up to the group quietly, respectfully. Still, he was like a magnet on wheels, and riders flocked to him like flies to butter. Like Bo, he let riders cruise up beside him and chat for a bit, before peeling off to let someone else have their turn. Here's a video shot by my hubby, an avid cyclist who has a long-standing man-crush on Lance...and a handy Go-Pro he clamped under his bike seat. (Yep, that's me, drafting off Lance, in a blue jersey.)

Bo led us down country roads lined with people standing in their yards, on front porches, yelling "Roll Tide!" and "War Eagle!" and "Thank you, Bo!" Some of these people had lost homes, or loved ones. And here they were, cheering us on from their scarred landscape. That is part of what made this ride magical, emotional, and once-in-a-lifetime special. The hair stands on my arms, just remembering it.

Bo had scouted our ride route ahead of time, and he'd chosen places to stop and remember. The house in the photo above was set in a valley of pines scattered like Pick-Up Stix. We got off our bikes and hiked up to the home, a trailer set down on the foundation of a home stolen by the wind.

Despite all the Lance buzz, the folks along the country roads were more interested in seeing Bo Jackson. And if they were standing anywhere near a hill, they had plenty of time to see him. Even though he still looks like he could do bicep curls with a MiniCooper, Bo struggled on the hills. It's no easy task to pull 200+ pounds of muscle up a hill.

But it was inspiring. Watching the man people have called "the greatest athlete of all time" creep uphill in his granny gear was a lesson in humility. How many pro athletes are willing to set aside their pride and struggle at something...with an audience? (Dancing with the Stars doesn't count.) To see Bo -- and the other rock-star athletes, none of whom were avid cyclists -- suffering, publicly, for a common cause was a lesson for the rest of us. Sometimes, you will find the greatest leaders in the back of the pack.

The other lesson Bo taught us on a bike? We may sit on either side of the Ironbowl, but when the wind strips everything else away, we are all on the same team. "It's not about Roll Tide or War Eagle," he said on more than one occasion. And ending with a party in Tuscaloosa -- where, by the way, the rider meals were cooked by Toomers for Tuscaloosa, an Auburn group -- was proof he wasn't whistling Dixie. "Whatever side you're on, say it with respect," Bo said. "We are all from the same place."

Bo knows.

Raise a glass to these two Southern James Beard Award nominees in the Outstanding Wine Program category. We’ve asked them to make pairing recommendations for some of our favorite Southern dishes.

(Go to jamesbeard.org to purchase tickets to the awards event on Monday, May 7th in NYC. If you can’t attend, check in on the live stream, broadcast from the website, or follow announcements on twitter @beardfounation or from our own Features Editor, Jennifer Cole @jennifervcole.)

Photo: Courtesy of Blackberry Farm

Andy Chabot
The Barn at Blackberry Farm
Walland, TN

Shrimp and Grits: While it may seem simple to answer this with a white wine, I am hard pressed to keep my hands off of the dry rosé wines in our cellar to pair with this dish this time of year. Particularly a rosé wine from Southern France, where you might just see similar dishes focused on fresh Shellfish. This year, I’ve loved pouring and tasting the rosés from Domaine Ott. They are very light in color, dry, refreshing and simply enjoyable.

BBQ: My favorite pairing with BBQ (and it’s great with all styles – North Carolina through Texas) is a Kabinett Level German Riesling. It has the high levels of acidity needed to refresh the palate. It is low in alcohol, giving it a more quaffable quality than other wines which seems to always be important when enjoying BBQ and the slight sweetness of the wine is both immediately enjoyable and a balance to the rich smoky and meaty qualities of BBQ.

Fried Chicken: Champagne is the simple answer here. Particularly a great, Chardonnay dominated Champagne. This can be fun because you can really put a top champagne on the table if your budget allows for it and pair it with something that brings it down off of its pedestal and pairs well with it. A Chardonnay dominated Champagne is important to me because it has more brightness and acidity to balance the salty, crunchy and rich chicken and to lighten up the entire experience. There’s something incredibly pleasing about Champagne and fried food. It’s as unexpected as it is great together.

Photo: Courtesy of Emeril's 

Ray Gumpert
Emeril’s
New Orleans, LA

Gumbo: BEER! That is a frequently asked question, especially here in New Orleans and a good cold beer is the obvious answer. However, wine can also match very well with gumbo, despite what people may think. I usually suggest a slightly sweet old world wine, with high acidity and low alcohol to ensure that the heat will be cut with the wines acidity and not made spicier with alcohol content. Also, sweet and spicy always work well together. I think the 2009 Pierre Spaar Riesling from Alsace would work great.

Fried Soft Shell Crab: This is a dish that would pair well with a few different wines, but I think above all else a Champagne would be the best. Preferably Chardonnay based. The high acidity in the wine would cut through the fattiness of the fried crab, while not overwhelming the sweet and delicate crab meat. Awesome Match! The Taittinger "La Française" Reims Brut would be also be a delicious and elegant match.

Peach Cobbler: I think that a simple and floral Moscato d’Asti from Piedmont would work magically. The peach notes in the nose and palate of this slightly sparkling white would complement the peach in the dish, and still be light and fresh considering that it is at the end of the meal and a syrupy desert wine may be a little much.The 2010 Saracco Moscato d'Asti is an affordable favorite of mine that everyone always falls in love with. 

James Beard Award Winners in 56 categories (like Best Chef, Best New Restaurant, and Best American Cookbook) will be announced on Monday, May 7^th at Lincoln Center’s Avery Fisher Hall in New York City. Go to jamesbeard.org to purchase tickets. If you can’t attend, check in on the live stream, broadcast from the website, or follow announcements on twitter @beardfounation or from our own Features Editor, Jennifer Cole @jennifervcole. In the meantime, we caught up with some of our Southern nominees to get a sense of their unique history and tastes. Join us in wishing our tastemakers all the best!

Photo: Courtesy of La Petite Grocery
 
Justin Devillier
La Petite Grocery
New Orleans, LA
Best Chef Nominee (South)

What is your favorite cookbook?
I can't pinpoint one in particular but I have always been inspired by James Peterson and Paula Wolfert. I was blown away the first time I read through The French Laundry Cookbook. These days I am reading a lot of single subject books like The River Cottage Meat Book. At the moment, I’m reading The Art Of Living According To Joe Beef.

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
It was a meal I ate last fall during The Chefs Table dinner on Monday nights at Trattoria Lucca in Charleston, SC. I love the way the kitchen cooks with a feeling of spontaneity. No menus. Just order a bottle of wine and eat your way through a fantastic Italian inspired meal with fresh Lowcountry ingredients. 

Which meal at your restaurant best defines your style of cooking and why?
Tagliatelle With Gulf Shrimp And Field Peas. This dish relies on some classic techniques with the beurre monté and the hand made pasta, and it also has nice subtle Southern flavors with the shrimp and fresh peas. It is finished with a little lemon juice, fresh oregano, and piave vecchio. I feel like it’s a nice representation of what we are trying to do.  

Photo: Courtesy of Commander's Palace

Tory McPhail
Commander’s Palace
New Orleans, LA
Best Chef Nominee (South)

What is your favorite cookbook?  
Right now it is Happy in the Kitchen by Michel Richard.

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
Dinner at McCrady’s in Charleston.  I love what Sean Brock is doing—he’s a friend, and a very inspiring chef.

Which meal at your restaurant best defines your style of cooking and why?  
This past weekend I spent an entire Saturday breaking down a whole pig.  The meal was a Louisiana hog done six different ways including two different sausages, pork belly, a sauce made out of the trotters, and fresh pork cracklins’.  Everything about that meal was harvested from a local farm, Covey Rise—all sustainable and natural. I turned off my phone, didn’t check my email, and just broke down this pig all day long. It was basically honoring the Louisiana hand craftsmanship taken to get this state to where it is.  I believe Louisiana has the best regional food in the nation. The history goes back 250 years with influences from France, Spain Africa, and Mexico.  It was the original melting pot.  I really wanted to embrace that am always working towards redefining and revitalizing New Orleans cuisine.

Photo: Courtesy of Lilette

John Harris
Lilette
New Orleans, LA
Best Chef Nominee (South)

What is your favorite cookbook?
I wouldn’t say I’ve used a cookbook in the last five years.

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
I brought my management staff to Daniel where we spent obscene amount of money on exquisite wine and food worth every penny. Seeing an operation where no detail—no matter how small—is overlooked always inspires me to a higher standard at my restaurant and bar.

Which meal at your restaurant best defines your style of cooking and why?  Roasted Poulet breast with brussel sprouts, balsamic onions, and mushroom vinaigrette. It’s an unassuming dish that surprises—it even makes my children eat brussel sprouts. It’s French in style, but light with a good use of vinegar and olive oil (of which we use in copious amounts at Lilette).

Photo: Courtesy of Domenica

Alon Shaya
Domenica
New Orleans
Best Chef Nominee (South)

What is your favorite cookbook?
My favorite cookbook is Marc Vetri's, Il Viaggio. Marc is like a big brother to me and he helped me get set up on my apprenticeship Italy. He happened to be on the same flight I was on, and was generous and kind enough to drive me to the first restaurant I worked at outside of Bergamo. When I read his book all of those great memories that I cherish from my time in Italy come rushing back. It not only inspires me to  continue cooking the great foods I fell in love with from Lombardia, but it also solidifies my feelings of how important it is to share your passion with the people around you. 

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
The most inspiring meal I ate was at a restaurant called La Bombeta in Barcelona, Spain. I was on my honeymoon with my beautiful wife Emily, and we stumbled upon this casual family restaurant. It was one of our first meals in Spain and I had no idea what to expect. We were actually on our way to another restaurant for lunch but as we walked by La Bombeta we felt drawn in. There was energy—all locals on their lunch breaks—and the place had a line out the door. We ate bombas (potato croquettes with aioli and spicy pepper), morcilla (the best blood sausage I have ever had), and pan a la Catalana (toasted bread rubbed with fresh tomato, garlic and topped with jamon Iberico). Every bite blew me away. I wasn't expecting to have one of the best meals of my life walking in there, but all of the most important factors to a great meal were playing their roles. I was with someone I love. The food was honest, local, and simple, and there was a grandmother in the kitchen. (Seriously.)

Which meal at your restaurant best defines your style of cooking and why?
The wood roasted goat shakshouka. I'm Israeli and love cooking the foods of my heritage. The dish also embraces the Italians’ love for roasted goat and stewed tomatoes, as well as seasonal vegetables. There's an egg with a runny yolk. I source the goat from a friend Bill Ryals who raises them in Tylertown, Mississippi. I get to cook it in a wood burning oven. All of these things together. If I was to be reincarnated as a dish, it would be this one.

Photo: Courtesy of bluestem

Colby Garrelts
Bluestem
Kansas City, MO
Best Chef Nominee (Midwest) 

What is your favorite cookbook? 
So much for humility… It’s mine, bluestem the cookbook. Actually there are several cookbooks that have influenced me over the years including those by Charlie Trotter, Larousse Gastronomique, and Essential Cuisine by Michel Bras.

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
I had a rabbit dish from Kansas City chef, Howard Hannah, at his restaurant, The Rieger Hotel. The rabbit, from Rare Hare Barn, was braised in red wine with bacon and served with late winter greens. The dish was just so well prepared and the ingredients were exceptional.

Which meal at your restaurant best defines your style of cooking and why?
I think I have one dish every season that really defines my cooking style. For instance, this spring I will have a Lightly Poached Trout with late spring pistou. My style is to prepare dishes that are fresh, clean and with bright flavors.

Photo: Courtesy of Wagstaff Worldwide

Gerard Craft
Niche
St. Louis, MO
Best Chef Nominee (Midwest)

What is your favorite cookbook?
That’s a hard question! The cookbook I was almost raised on is The French Laundry Cookbook. I know that many say that but I really believe it was one of the inspiring cookbooks of my generation of chefs.

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
It’s really hard to choose just one meal, but on a recent research trip to Italy (for Pastaria opening in August), we had an inspiring and unexpected meal Al Pont de Ferr in Milan. It looks like a total rustic Osteria outside but once you step inside, the food it totally outside of the box —playful and unique.

Which meal at your restaurant best defines your style of cooking and why? 
While our menu changes frequently with the seasons, my favorite dish right now on our menu is the Carrots Three Ways. I think it just represents us at Niche, and overall what I think Missouri is all about. It’s simple and high quality. It just shows that even with humble ingredients such as the carrot, you can elevate it to a fine dining experience when it’s looked at slightly outside the box. For this dish, we use roasted baby carrots, pickled thumbelina carrots, full grown braised carrots and then finish the dish with a dehydrated espelette carrot cake and a bit of yogurt, fennel pollen and dill.

Photo: Courtesy of Restaurant Eve

Cathal Armstrong
Restaurant Eve
Alexandria, VA
Best Chef Nominee (Mid-Atlantic)

What is your favorite cookbook?  
My favorite cookbook is Cooking with Jaques and Julia where Jaques Pepin and Julia Child wrote a very personal note on the inside when I cooked for them.

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
Roasted Leg of Donegal lamb with potato gratin and spring garlic from my dad's garden in his house at Donegal in Ireland.

Which meal at your restaurant best defines your style of cooking and why?  
Pan Fried Veal Sweetbreads with Morels and Virginia Asparagus. Sweetbreads is one of my favorite things to cook, I love the combination of asparagus, especially from Virginia when it is in season.

Photo: Courtesy of Heather Freeman PR

Vikram Sunderam
Rasika
Washington DC
Best Chef Nominee (Mid-Atlantic)

What is your favorite cookbook?
Among the numerous cookbooks I have on Indian cuisine, perhaps my most favorite are Prashad by Jiggs Kalra and The Masala Art by Chef Hemant Oberoi.

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
The best meal was Spaghetti Al Nero Di Seppia  (black spaghetti, Louisiana jumbo lump crab, 'aglio, olio e peperoncino'), eaten at Bibiana Osteria-Enoteca, in Washington DC.  The dish is a good balance of interesting flavors with the squid ink pasta, the sweetness of the crab, and the spice of the chilies.

Which meal at your restaurant best defines your style of cooking and why? Palak Chaat.  It is our version of the Indian Fritter.  It is very light and crispy. The tangy date and tamarind chutney, the sweet yoghurt, and the different spices in the dish enhance your taste buds and make it a great start to your meal.  It is one of our most popular dishes.

Photo: Courtesy of Five and Ten

Hugh Acheson
Five and Ten
Athens, GA
Best Chef Nominee (Southeast)

What is your favorite cookbook?
John Egerton's Southern Food.

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
Two Boroughs Larder in Charleston, SC. I had a sweetbreads dish that was great, but the whole place is just about people trying hard everyday to do great food. Very fun.

Which meal at your restaurant best defines your style of cooking and why?
Fennel stuffed trout with rice & beans and hot sauce vinaigrette... it shows the purity of Southern food in the light that I want it seen in.

Photo: Courtesy of Edward Lee

Edward Lee
610 Magnolia
Louisville, KY
Best Chef Nominee (Southeast)

What is your favorite cookbook?
White Heat by Marco Pierre White. It was one of the first cookbooks that I bought, and it really changed the landscape of what a cookbook could be.  It took a risk and it inspired a lot of young chefs both in England and abroad.

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
At Publican in Chicago, everything there is so deceptively simple but once you really dig into it, you realize that it is mind blowing, especially the corned beef heart.  It makes me think how to really elevate simple organ meats into an agricultural experience.  Paul is a master at that and it always humbles me when I eat at any of his restaurants.

Which meal at your restaurant best defines your style of cooking and why?
I'm partial to my Black BBQ Beef Short Ribs with Edamame Hummus and Cilantro Pudding. It's where I take southern traditions and add a little something of my roots to it.  It feels like it came from somewhere in the past and somewhere in the present.  I'm happy with this one.

Photo: Courtesy of Uchiko

Paul Qui
Uchiko
Austin, TX
Best Chef Nominee (Southwest)

What is your favorite cookbook?
My favorite cookbook is the Michel Bras book.  The simplicity of his food and beauty of his plates has always inspired me. 

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
My favorite meal this year was at Gramercy Tavern.  It's been one of my favorite places to eat when I visit NYC since I started my culinary career and it's never disappointed.  My favorite dish that meal was the smoked trout with pickled onions. 

Which item on the menu of your restaurant best defines your style of cooking and why?
The dish on my menu that is most reflecting of my style is my grilled pork jowl with Asian pear and brussels sprout kimchee.  It blends elements of sweet, sour, spicy, salty, bitter, and umami, combined with contrasting textures and temperatures.

Photo: Courtesy of Biga on the Banks

Bruce Auden
Biga on the Banks
San Antonio, TX
Best Chef Nominee (Southwest)

What is your favorite cookbook?
The Modern Art of Chinese Cooking.

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
This year! I don't think I've left the restaurant this year yet to go out to eat.

Which item on the menu of your restaurant best defines your style of cooking and why?
Lightly smoked mushrooms served sizzling on a comal as a family style appetizer, because it is a great way to start a meal with friends or others you don't yet know well, because it’s very unpretentious.

Photo: Courtesy of Hedy Goldsmith

Hedy Goldsmith
Michael’s Genunie Food & Drink
Miami, FL
Outstanding Pastry Chef Nominee

What is your favorite cookbook?
My favorite cookbook is Sunday Suppers at Lucques by Suzanne Goin. I love it because it speaks about family dinners in a sophisticated and approachable way that's all about seasonality and letting the ingredients speak for themselves. It's also timeless.

What was the most inspiring meal you've eaten this year?
I will go back time and time again to Son Of A Gun in LA for their Shrimp Toast. Jon and Vinny created this dish that evokes early memories of a familiar favorite from my childhood that's been elevated from simple flavors to a sessional dish.

Which meal at your restaurant best defines your style of cooking and why?
I'd say Popcorn and Peanuts defines my style the best. It's a milk chocolate and caramel peanut butter bar served with buttered popcorn gelato, popcorn and peanut bark and caramelized cocoa nibs. The dessert combines salty and sweet, crunchy and creamy, buttery and chocolate flavors. It’s playful and reminds us not to take ourselves too seriously.

Photo courtesy Historic Banning Mills

We're taking a break from our usual hotel-driven Deal Of The Week to bring you something a little more adventurous. 

This summer build family memories with an experience none of you will soon forget. Zip line canopy tours, the latest thrill-seeking venture, gets a kid friendly spin at Historic Banning Mills in Whitesburg, Georgia. The outdoor adventure park is known for having the longest continuing zip line canopy tour in the world, and with the addition of the Woodland Tour youngsters weighing at least 50 pounds can now join in on the fun. 

You'll soar through the trees reaching 30-to 85-feet above the ground on a sturdy harness that gives you unobstructed access to the woodsy views from a safe vantage point. 

Deal: Mention code SL01 when you call 770/834-9149 to book, and receive 20% off the Forest/Woodland tours, which starts at $49. 

Terms: Offer can't be combined with other discounts or coupons. Minimum weight is 50 pounds and maximum weight is 250 pounds for ladies and 285 pounds for men. Offer can not be redeemed for cash. Guests must make a reservation for the tour by calling 770/834-9149. The offer is available May 2, 2012 thru July 30, 2012.

What do you get when 5 people gather around a table eating burgers and discussing life? That's what the guys behind The Burger Coalition aim to find out. Atlanta's James Martin and Birmingham's Dan Gavin are the brains behind the concept that launches May 1.

It works like this: starting tomorrow, each month Martin and Gavin will open up spots for ten people to attend dinner over hamburgers.The first gathering will be the evening of May 15 (at Bocado in Atlanta and Ollie Irene in Birmingham). It's exclusive because there are only five spots for each dinner. But it's not exclusive because anyone can sign up, and that's exactly what they want — a cross-section of people to gather for community and conversation.

"Open mind and empty stomach, that's our focus," says Dan, who works as a designer for a local advertising firm. He and James struck up a friendship when James visited Birmingham recently as part of a documentary about creativity in the South. Though they are both originally from the North, they each say they've chosen the South as home for the long-term -- in no small part because of the communities they've discovered, and meals they've eaten here.

Piggybacking on these commonalities, together they came up with the idea to hosts these monthly dinners concurrently in their respective cities.

There's no agenda, no set topic -- just a chance for people to gather and get to know one another in a relaxed setting. "When you're eating burgers with someone it's pretty casual. So it's not necessarily going to lead to serious conversations, but it's ok if that happens too," says James (also a designer by trade). 

Tickets are free (though attendees are responsible for their meals). Because the spots are so limited, they encourage participants to sign up as soon as soon as the slots are made public on their website: Tuesday, May 1 at 2:05 pm CST and 4:04 EST in Atlanta (get it? area codes). 

And if you don't make it in for the first one, no worries — they will continue to host these dinners each month at burger spots around both Atlanta and Birmingham. (From mom-and-pop spots to fancier options, they have a list going, but are open to your suggestions as well.) 

They'll post summaries and nuggets from each of the meals on their website and via social media (@burgercoalition). They'll also write about the restaurants, the experience, and of course the burgers, but stress that they're not on a mission to find the best burger in the South — just some good conversation. 

They're also considering hosting larger scale events with the possibility of showcasing emerging Southern burger whizzes. 

Why burgers? "The burger is so approachable. It's the common connecting point for all of us," Dan says. Dan knows something about the power of conversation that happens around food. He helped build and operate PieLab, the James Beard award-nominated bakery in Greensboro, AL that serves as a community gathering spot (all based around pie.)

"Food is a simple starting point for conversation," he says. Where the conversations will go; they aren't sure. But we have a feeling it's going to be juicy.

Related Links:

Southern Living: Something In Particular  

Southern Living: Burgers, Any Way You Like 'Em

Photo BrownChickenTrain.com

It's always great when you discover a band you can't wait to tell all your friends about. This weekend in Lewisburg, West Virginia we came across BrownChicken BrownCow StringBand — the town's bluegrass pride.

Made up of local brothers Xander and Orion Hitzig on the fiddle and mandolin, Matt Del Olmo playing upright bass, Justin Morris on guitar, and Katherine Fountain on harmonica; the band has a chemistry that can only come from having a group of people that play what they know straight from the soul—their West Virginia mountain roots play through in every tune.

The traveling five-piece is regularly on the road spreading their special blend of old-timey Appalachian love. This video gives you a taste, but you have to see these guys (and gal) live. Check tour dates to see when they'll be coming through your town.

A year ago today, a University of Alabama student huddled in a house in Tuscaloosa, whispering to the girl in his arms that everything would be okay. Then the wind came, and snatched her out of his arms, and hurled them both into the unfathomable. Today he raises money for her memorial scholarship.

The story of Carson Tinker and Ashley Harrison is a sad and powerful one, written beautifully by my friend Lars Anderson in Sports Illustrated. If you did not see it, please take time to read this story, and remember Ashley and the ones we lost, for today is a day to honor them.

Carson Tinker went on to win a BCS National Championship on the eve of Ashley's birthday. When the celebration wound down in New Orleans after midnight, he got in his car and drove home to Tuscaloosa. Some time in the small hours, he texted Ashley's mother a photograph of the cross he had placed in the field where she died, decorated with shakers and other souvenirs from the game. That was his birthday gift to Ashley.

Carson doesn't like to talk about the day the girl he loved was stolen by the wind. But he does give motivational talks to groups, and donates every penny he earns from it to her scholarship. He helps sell bracelets her family made in her honor, pink bands with a favorite saying of hers, written in her handwriting, taken from a note she wrote to her father:

I Love you as big as the sky.

"Ashley loved to help others," says her mother, Darlene Harrison, who came with Ashley's father from Texas to hold a memorial service later today at the place where she was found. At graduation, when her daughter was honored posthumously with a college degree, a graduate passing her on the way to the stage stopped to thank her. Ashley had tutored him. "He told me, 'If it wasn't for Ashley, I would not be graduating.'"

Go visit her Facebook Memorial page to see how much she is missed. The words of grief and photos posted there, the outpouring of support from her friends and fellow students, are what get Darlene through the loss of her only child. "There's a hole in my heart that won't ever go away," Darlene told me over the phone. "But it is lined with those kids, with the people who loved her. And they keep that hole from getting bigger."

If you would like to donate to her scholarship, here's the address:

Ashley Harrison Memorial Scholarship PO Box 180098 Dallas, TX 75218

If you read our story What Stands in a Storm last year, you might remember Holly Hart, the driving force behind Toomers for Tuscaloosa, a group of Auburn fans who banded together to help their bitterest rivals in Tuscaloosa. Armed with a Facebook page, a smart phone, and uncommon sense, Holly -- an interior designer and mother of two grown kids-- played dispatcher-controller for 80,000 individuals who either needed help, or wanted to help.

Holly defines my idea of a hometown hero. She has no training in emergency management. She didn't have an army of volunteers. Or a big corporate budget. Or anyformal qualifications, really, that would have prepared her to do what she did.

But the woman had heart. And the sense to find out what people needed, plus the courage to ask, to search, to beg, until she found a way to get it to them. With her iPhone and a Facebook page, she filled trucks with diapers and formula, moved mountains of cleaning supplies across state lines. Holly calls herself the "Chief Begging Officer" for Toomers, and has helped more towns across the South -- especially Tuscaloosa -- than any individual I know.

This, from a woman who, like all good Auburn fans, claims a healthy orange-blooded hatred of Alabama. "I'll tell you straight," she said. "I cheer for Auburn and whoever is playing Alabama." 

Holly is one exceptional example of many everyday heroes who stepped up in a crisis to help neighbors and strangers, often before official first-responders could even reach the scene. Now EMTs and official emergency agencies invite her to speak at their conferences. They want to hear what she did and how she did it. How cool is that?

A year after the storm, Holly is still at it. She kept at it, even through a football season that saw her rivals win a National Championship. Even through Christmas. Especially through Christmas. Toomer's "adopted" 130 kids, many of whom they had met while delivering supplies in Holt. One kid said all he wanted for Christmas was a pair of hearing aids so his grandpa could hear his grandma as she struggled against cancer. 

This Saturday, Bo Bikes Bama draws to a celebratory close as the cyclists roll into Tuscaloosa. The last three miles are a "community ride" -- open to the public -- and Holly/Toomers offered to cook. Inexhaustable, this woman!

"I’ve learned that people will help if you give them an opportunity, and if you let them know what’s needed," Holly said. "And I’ve learned that when you think you can’t go any more, you’ve always got a little bit left in you."

What a perfect meditation for tomorrow's 50-day ride.

As Southerners look back to the storms of April 27, 2011, we all remember in different ways. For one group of young Alabamians, remembrance has taken the form of exploring the subject through writing. "April's Rampage," a self-published book, was written by a group of third grade students at Gwin Elementary. Located in Hoover, Alabama, the school itself didn't sustain damage, but was less than 30 miles from communities that were devastated.

Led by teacher Ashley Dark, the Gwin students interviewed survivors (including children at Tuscaloosa's Holt Elementary), meteorologists, and volunteers. The result is a work of historical fiction about April 27, with a fictional third grader at the center of the book:

The student authors will be signing copies of "April's Rampage" this week:

Friday, April 27 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) -- Tuscaloosa Books-A-Million, 900 Skyland Blvd. E

Saturday, April 28 (2-4 p.m.) -- Hoover Books-A-Million, 900 Skyland Blvd. E. 

We commend them for their work, and for the work of everyone who continues to honor those affected by the storms of 4.27. 

Wondering how you can help people who are still in need a year later? Please consider supporting Bo Bikes Bama. Bo's ride across the state to raise funds for those impacted is underway -- click on the link to donate, or text the keyword BOBIKES to 5055 to donate $10 to BoBikesBama.

Related Links:

Southern Living Conversation With Bo Bama: VIDEO

A Year Later: The Quilt That Flew Home

AL.com: Gwin Elementary School students collect supplies to share with Holt Elementary School

photo by Kelsey Snell

The U.S. Barista Championship & Brewers Cup took place in Portland, Oregon over the weekend. Although we didn’t make the cross-country trek to Portland, we’d like to congratulate all the competitors and top finalists who represented the South’s budding craft-coffee culture in the Northwest. Of the 12 national finalists nearly half hail from the South.

Andy Sprenger, head coffee roaster at Annapolis, Maryland’s Ceremony Coffee Roasters, won first place in the Brewers Cup and will advance to the World Brewers Cup in Vienna (June 12-15). Andy also won the 2011 Brewers Cup national title last year. The South represented half of the six finalists for Brewers Cup, including Andy, Dut Goodman of Batdorf & Bronson in Atlanta, and Lorenzo Perkins of Cuvee Coffee in Austin. We spoke with Dut in Atlanta during regionals eariler this year and he was more eager to talk about his Southern, coffee community than his ambitions for finals. The morning after a late-January fire destroyed Safehouse Coffee & Tea, a non-profit cafe and small-batch roaster in Griffin, Georgia, Dut and a Batdorf & Bronson co-worker set up a pop-up coffee bar outside of the smoldering shop in Griffin to raise money for the rebuild.

This year’s barista champion, Katie Carguilo of Counter Culture Coffee will also advance to the finals Vienna.  Although Katie represents the North Carolina-based coffee company in their New York City roastery, her roots were formed in Washington, D.C., at Murky Coffee in Georgetown, so we’re proud to call her one of our own.

Travis Beckett of Peregrine Espresso; photo by Kelsey Snell

Travis Beckett, of Peregrine Espresso in D.C., made it to the top six using one of our favorite coffees, Counter Culture’s fruity sun-dried Ethiopian Idido. This is the second time we saw Peregrine rise in the ranks this year. Lindsey Kiser, another star barista at the café, won the title in the Southeast Regional Barista Competition in February.

Congratulations to all of our region's coffee gurus.

By: Kelsey Snell 

You may remember Carrie Morgan (third from left) as the owner of the memory quilt that was lost and found in the April storms. The quilt, a gift stitched together with iron-on photographs of scenes from her youth, was one of the last remaining of her childhood; most of her photos and memories were lost in a house fire that had destroyed her home years earlier. That quilt vanished into the air that took her mother's home along with it on April 27, 2011 in the town of Phil Campbell, Alabama.

Leah Morgan (third from right) found the quilt -- damp, dirty, but intact -- in her back yard, two counties from where it took flight. Through Facebook, she found Carrie and returned her treasured quilt. (See the video and read the story of its return.)

We caught up with Carrie by phone and Facebook to see how her family was doing. Here's what she had to say:

We cannot believe it has been nearly a year since the storm, and we wanted to see how you and your family are doing. Did your mom find a new home? What became of your quilt? Do your kids remember what happened?

Things are slowly but surely returning to tranquil. It's hard to say normal, because it's just not the same. The quilt is boxed away safely. Mother bought a trailer and put it on the same land.

Clay (my oldest son) remembers everything pretty much. And well Luke (who was a newborn last April) wasn't big enough. His birthday was April 19th. Clay really dreads the storms now, but I believe we all really do.

This is unbelievable, but Mom was in Kentucky last month when an EF 4 hit her hometown. Talk about terrified. Mom was at my sister's house. They received minimum damage, thank God, but my aunt's house was destroyed.

Wow, that is unbelievable! We're so glad they were OK, but that's terrible news about your aunt's house. What happened?

My sister was having an operation, and Mother wanted to go up and be with her for her recovery. She went up to stay with her that week. While they were at the hospital, I was calling and texting her and saying, "It looks like it’s going to be bad there."

They were at hospital all morning, but rushed home. She and my sister and her boyfriend took shelter. They had just got home, and they hid in a closet as the tornado passed over. It didn’t touch down, but it ripped my sister’s roof off. My aunt lost pretty much everything she had. She had a nice big home, and it just leveled it. All gone.

How did your mom handle it?

She hugged mother and it was sad. Mother said, "What do I do?" I said, "You just thank God you’re still there." Mother said, "It’s like I was there for a purpose. I've been there." It was closure for Mother. It made her feel like she wasn’t alone.

******************************************************************************************************************************

Editor's Note: We're donating flowers and plants from the Southern Living Plant Collection to help make Carrie's mother's home beautiful again. But we need volunteers to help plant them. If you would like to volunteer, please email us at kim (underscore) cross (at) timeinc.com or connect with Toomers for Tuscaloosa on Facebook!

Photo courtesy Lake Buena Vista Resort and Spa

Orlando resorts—with its huge pool complexes, rotation of amenities, and bountiful entertainment schedule—give Orlando theme parks a run for their money.

Take Lake Buena Vista Resort Village and Spa, where kids can play captain in the Pirate Plunge pool complete with slides, shooting water cannons, and cascading waterfalls. Mom and dad put palates to the test sampling from 32 beers on tap at the on-site Frankie Farrell’s Irish Pub & Grille. And the gift shop gets an upgrade with The Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores—an outlet mall with more than 50 designer discount stores including Guess, Loft, and Levi's—retail therapy, at its best. 

SL Deal: Book online to get 20% room rates for a multi-bedroom suite (from $129 a night without discount). You’ll also receive 25% off spa treatments at Reflections Spa-Salon.

By: Chelsea Bartel

Sports legend Bo Jackson was in Birmingham Monday to launch his week-long bike journey: Bo Bikes Bama. The Alabama native, Auburn University grad and 1985 Heisman Trophy winner is biking across his home state in an effort to raise $1 million to benefit those affected by the tornadoes of April 27, 2011.

All of the funds raised will go to the Governor's Emergency Relief Fund, which was established to help Alabamians with unmet recovery needs. The project has already raised more than $278,000. 

The 300-mile ride takes Bo through many communities affected by last year's tornadoes. He'll start in Henegar, Alabama, and make his was through communities including Lake Guntersville, Cullman, Jasper, and Bessemer (his hometown). 

The ride will culminate on Saturday, April 28 in Tuscaloosa, where the public is invited to join Bo on the last three and a half miles of his journey. 

Southern Living sat down with Bo to discuss why this cause is so personal to him:

 A Pied Piper indeed.

We salute Bo and those making it possible for him to take this journey, and for keeping the needs of Alabamians in mind a year later.

***

The story of rebuilding  after 4.27 is personal to us at Southern Living too -- Alabama is our home, and those affected are our friends and neighbors. 

So, several of our staff will be joining Bo on his journey later in the week, and we'll be sharing stories from the trek via our Facebook and Twitter (@southern_living) accounts.

Also riding alongside Bo will be a number of notable Southerners (including Texan Lance Armstrong, University of Georgia Heisman winner Herschel Walker, and Alabama resident and Olympic snow skier Picabo Street) and celebrity friends from around the country. 

You can help too. We encourage you to consider supporting this worthy cause. It's easy to donate -- click here to make a contribution, or text the keyword BOBIKES to 50555 to donate $10. 

If you're interested in meeting Bo along the journey, the best way to get updates is to follow him on Twitter @BoBikesBama. 

As Bo says, "This isn't about War Eagle or Roll Tide. This is about the people of Alabama."

And that's something we can all get behind. 

Related Links:

Southern Living's Coverage of the April 27 Tornadoes: What Stands In A Storm 

SI.com: Bo Jackson Biking to Help Tornado Relief Efforts

Photo: Cory Bordonaro

In 1996, merchants of Dahlonega’s town square spotted a bear cub in the sycamore tree outside of Brad Walker’s pottery downtown studio. People supposed the animal had made its way up into the branches overnight, unable to descend once the sun set. Once the bear was safely returned to its home, locals decided the event called for celebration. So, in true Southern style, locals threw the cub a party, complete with artisans, fair fare, and plenty of boot-stomping tunes. Now, each spring, bluegrass and old time musicians flock to Bear on the Square festival to honor musical heritage of the Appalachian town. 

This past weekend, banjo pickers, fiddle players, and dulcimer drummers congregated on the streets of the historic town center for two days of joyful jamming. John Grimm and Beverly Smith (two staples in the local music scene) showcased talent under the big tent along with acts like the Georgia Crackers out of Atlanta, Packway Handle Band from Athens, and Dahlonega locals, the Buzzard Mountain Boys.  

Video: Cory Bordonaro

Related links: 

Southern Living's Willie Nelson Statue Unveiled in Texas

Southern Living's Celebrate Record Store Day in the South

Southern Living's Biscuits and Jam with Robert Earl Keen

Southern Living's Biscuits and Jam with Jason Isbell

Photos: Matt Bizer

The mood was festive Friday afternoon as Willie Nelson’s tour bus eased to a halt in front of Austin City Limits Live at Moody Theater. 

An adoring crowd (which included a woman on horseback, babies in Willie onesies, and plenty of braids, beards, and bandanas), had assembled at the corner of Second Street (a.k.a Willie Nelson Boulevard) and Lavaca for the unveiling of an 8-foot tall bronze statue of the musician.

“No one has done more to make Austin the Live Music Capital of the World,” said Mayor Lee Leffingwell, who also joked that he looked forward to singing a duet dedicated “to all the women they’d loved before,” with Nelson. 

The sculpture, which shows a smiling Nelson casually embracing his guitar, stands at the stairs that ascend into Moody Theater. Nelson was featured on Austin City Limit’s pilot almost 40 years ago, and he was the first musician to christen the show’s new multi-million dollar venue. 

Philadelphia-based artist Clete Shields (above) created the statue. The artist said he hoped his work captured the musician’s “humor and humility. “Nelson seemed to approve, and said that he thought Shields did a "pretty darn good job."

The work was commissioned by nonprofit Capital Area Statues Inc. The statues “Philosopher's Rock” at Barton Springs, and the Angelina Eberly statue at Sixth Street and Congress Avenue were also donated by the group.

Nelson’s long time friend, singer-songwriter Kris Kristofferson also spoke at the event, saying, "I was wondering if y'all were going to have somebody to keep the birds away."

“The red headed stranger” had the last word at the event when he reached for his guitar and serenaded the crowd with "On The Road Again." 

By Paula Disbrowe

In their new book, The World in a Skillet: A Food Lover’s Tour of the New American South out March 24, authors and husband-wife team Paul and Angela Knipple explore the ever-changing state of Southern foodways. The couple spent three years eating their way through the South; collecting recipes and stories from first-generation immigrants.

From Pastel de Choclo—a Bolivian-style corn pie similar to the classic comfort-food casseroles familiar to any Southerner who has attended a potluck or funeral—to the Brazilian version of sautéed collard greens; the Knipples discovered common themes and flavors through their research. They say this is a very exciting time to be a Southerner, as immigrants continue to bring new flavors and ingredients to the region expanding the definition of Southern food.

Paul, a jovial man in nature with a sarcastic wit, and Angela a soft-spoken enthusiast, are from Memphis. The pair started their careers in IT, before transitioning full-time to the kitchen. Their book includes 50 recipes from their travels spanning 10,000 miles across the South, and a foreword by Southern Foodways Alliance director and food writer, John T. Edge. 

All recipes were tested by Paul, Angela, and Angela’s mother—a willing supporter until she drew the line at beef tongue. Between the recipes, you’ll get to know the people and the places behind the foods. Chapter openers give insight into topics like keeping Kosher and Halal in “The Land of Pork,” and the secret in menus of Chinese restaurants that show the melding of culinary traditions as people from all over the world move to our region.

Last week, the duo stopped by Alabama Booksmith in Homewood, Alabama to sign copies of the book hot off the press. The Knipples came bearing snacks: eggrolls from nearby Mr. Chen’s Chinese Cooking in Hoover. Paul and Angela say the secret to dining at Xia Chun Chen’s restaurant is to let him surprise you with one if his specialties. “Don’t order the Orange Chicken,” Paul advised.

So what’s on Paul and Angela’s plate this spring? The couple just completed the manuscript for Farm Fresh Tennessee—a guide to farms, farmers markets, and other Tennessee-grown products. Soon, they will start developing recipes for a catfish cookbook. “We spark each other’s love of food,” the couple said, and we have a feeling they’re going to be sparking a love of food in kitchens all across the South.

Meet Paul and Angela on one of the next stops of their tour.

April 20, 3:30 p.m.
Park Road Books, Charlotte, NC 

April 22, 12 p.m.
Buford Highway Farmer's Market, Doraville, GA

June 9, 12 p.m.
Memphis Botanical Garden, Memphis, TN

By: Jessica Cox

When was the last time you visited a record store? How about this weekend?

Saturday, April 21 marks Record Store Day around the South and nationwide. In its fifth year, Record Store Day is a yearly event in which independently run record stores partner with artists to celebrate music.

From the Record Store Day website:

Special vinyl and CD releases and various promotional products are made exclusively for the day and hundreds of artists in the United States and in various countries across the globe make special appearances and performances. Festivities include performances, cook-outs, body painting, meet & greets with artists, parades, DJs spinning records and on and on. 

Why record stores? From CMT:

Many independent stores have disappeared due to the decline in physical music sales and the rise of big-box retailers and digital downloads, but those that remain are an important gathering place for music fans. Each year, unique vinyl records, CDs and other collectibles are produced in limited quantities that can only be purchased at participating stores for one day. Artists often make in-store appearances, too.

A number of of Southern artists are participating in Record Store Day, including Pistol Annies, made up of Miranda Lambert, Ashley Monroe and Angaleena Presley, who will release a vinyl version of their "Hell on Heels" that day.The Civil Wars will release a 7" with two covers — Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" on one side and Portishead's "Sour Times" on the other. The Carolina Chocolate Drops will release a 7' cover of the Run DMC classic "You Be Illin." 

The list goes on and on (check out the full list of participating artists).

Many of the participating stores on the list are in the South. Among them:

• MorningBell Records (above), which just opened a few weeks ago in Jackson, Mississippi. The store is packed with vinyl, including a large selection of local artists as well as perennial favorites (and also includes a recording studio, performance space, and soon, an arcade). 
• Criminal Records in Atlanta will feature a live performance by  Patterson Hood of Drive By Truckers at 3 p.m. 
• Euclid Records, located in New Orleans' 9th Ward, will feature 10 musicians.

Browse the complete map and list of participating stores to find more. Support music, and support your local independent record store!

Photo by Jessica Stringer

This week, the folks at SweetWater Brewering Company in Atlanta got yet another reason to raise a glass—they cracked the top 25 in the Brewers Association annual top 50 list.

To top off the good news, the brewery’s eighth annual Sweetwater 420 Fest kicks off tomorrow—appropriately, at 4:20 p.m. on April 20. The festival features a cornhole tournament, social media scavenger hunt, comedy shows, and live music at Candler Park. Of course, the hosts will have the bar stocked with plenty of their signature suds like SweetWater 420, IPA, and Georgia Brown to name a few of the World Beer Cup medal-winning sips. On Sunday, head brewer Nick Nock will serve up Southern hospitality in the form of a special brew made just for the Earth Day festival.

                                                SweetWater's Derrick Atkinson. Photo by Jessica Stringer

Going green isn’t anything new for SweetWater Brewering Company—the company has been partnering with local organizations to help preserve threatened rivers and coastlines across the South since its inception in 1997. The brewery has donated more than $300,000 to protect the Chattahoochee River, the Atlanta water source used to brew the oh-so-smooth beers. Part of the 420 Festival proceeds will go toward improving Candler Park, so you can help too just by drinking a draft.

If you can't make it to the festival, SweetWater also opens its door to the public for free brewery tours Wednesday through Saturday. Make an afternoon of it by paying $10 for a souvenir glass and six drink sample tickets. 

We recently made the pilgrimage for a fresh pint of SweetWater beer, and it seemed half of Atlanta had the same idea. A band strummed out seventies music while taps inside and outside kept lines short. We sipped on SweetWater Blue (a beer that smells just like the fresh-picked fruit) as our tour guide outlined the brewing process. Pint glass in hand, he had us toast each time he rattled off one of the many awards or mentioned the recent $19 million expansion that allows SweetWater to bottle 550 bottles per minute. Great beer, admirable causes, and a bright future—we’ll drink to that.


                                                                                Photo by Jessica Stringer

 
The deets: SweetWater 420 Fest,  April 20-22 at Candler Park in Atlanta. Free admission to enjoy festivities, and $5 a day for a wristband to drink for festivalgoers age 21 and up. 

By: Jessica Stringer

Photo courtesy Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort

Just northeast of Jacksonville, Florida, you'll find one of the Sunshine State's prettiest scenes on Amelia Island— a barrier island with 13 miles of pristine beaches, sand dunes, maritime forests, and a year-round schedule of events that keep the whole family entertained.

The Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort on the southern tip of the island serves as the perfect anchor for your island getaway. The luxury resort hosts 249 oceanfront room with private balconies overlooking the sea, and a range of amenities from hiking trails and crab grabbing, to spa treatments, shops, and nine restaurants.

Among the eateries is Marché Burette, chef Jerry Helminski’s French-influenced market, where guests can order the quiche of the day or build custom six packs from a selection of local brews. And with the resort's location, tucked between beach and marsh, you can wake up to the sunrise over the Atlantic and watch the sun set over the marshes.

SL Deal: Use code SOUTHERN when you book to get 15% off the best available rate (doubles start at $269) for luxurious oceanfront accommodations. Southern Living guests also receive a welcome package of assorted cookies, chocolate, and truffles. 

By: Chelsea Bartel

Related Links: 
Southern Living: Deal of the Week: 4 Days/3 Night Package at Lake Buena Vista Resort
Southern Living: Deal of the Week: Room Upgrade and Free Amenities at The Inn at Palmetto Bluff
Southern Living: Deal of the Week: $75 Resort Credit + Gifts at High Hampton Inn 
Southern Living: Deal of the Week: 20% Off at the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort  
Southern Living: Deal of the Week: Suite Accommodations and Brunch at The Hotel at Auburn University 

This is a guest post written by Maghan McDowell, Editorial Director of INsite Gainesville. Maghan was a co-host of Gainesville Fashion Week runway shows and events. Stay connected to Gainesville's style and entertainment scene at INsiteGainesville.com 

On the runway, photo by Sujie Wu for INsite Gainesville

This weekend saw the final days of runway shows and festivities for the fifth annual Gainesville Fashion Week in Gainesville, Florida. In a town that’s home to 80,000 college students, the setting is ripe for an occasion to dress up and celebrate the creative community—just ask the army of volunteers and sponsors.

The weeklong series of events kicked off with a ribbon cutting and art show celebrating the landmark year, and closed with a brunch and trunk show yesterday selling pieces featured on the runways. 

Gainesville Fashion Week offers a welcome forum for local talent, not just designers and boutique owners, but also visual artists, musicians, models, makeup and hair artists, and photographers. This year's event hosted a combination of returning favorites and first-time, out-of-towners—a sure sign that Gainesville Fashion Week has established its position as a Southern fashion and art destination. 

Laura Kathleen, photo by Erik Knudsen for INsite Gainesville

Runway highlights included emerging St. Louis designer Laura Kathleen, perhaps most recognized for being a top five favorite on Season 9 of Project Runway. She showed her fall ready-to-wear collection of expertly tailored separates and dresses—all made in the U.S.A. Laura's versatile collection combined a subtle Bohemian vibe with elegant restraint. We hope her structured blazers become a trademark. She also included  a few of her handmade jewelry pieces from her line LoveArmour of which we are sure to see more of soon.

Southern fRock, photo by Erik Knudsen for INsite Gainesville

Another addition to this year's lineup was Raleigh-based Southern fRock, which shared a collection of simple, feminine knit dresses that could go easily go from Derby day to oyster roast. Designer Emily Newnam drew inspiration from her time living in Charleston, and the nautical touches and punchy colors were evidence of her classic Southern sensibility.

Mikho Resort, from New York City-based designer Miguel Blanco, returned to close Gainesville Fashion Week. The partnership with husband and video editor Alexander Hammer (he's worked on videos for Beyonce, Jay-Z, Kanye West, and Kelly Rowland) meant a highly conceptual experience that launched with a short film before showcasing men and women swimsuits and simple separates with a sixties-era sensuality.

Sironna Swimwear, photo by Sujie Wu for INsite Gainesville

In a state known for spring break, it’s no surprise that swimwear appeared more than once. Sironna Swimwear—known previously for sexy yet wearable women’s suits—debuted a collection for kids that had the audience applauding as every mini model hit their mark with gusto. The line's whimsical touches were like building-block centerpieces and candy party favors. Later, Bruna Santana’s collection, Zella Machado Swimwear, was all grown up, with a bikini-heavy line and bold shapes influenced by retro lines with modern sex appeal.

Zella Machado Swimwear, photo by Sujie Wu for INsite Gainesville

Other local favorites included Jacquelyn Brooks, known for game-day dresses (never out of style in this Gator-crazy town) and ladylike frocks; and AJNEL Designs, which presented children’s and women’s lines with a distinctly Victorian influence seen in the high collars and heavy fabrics.

Jacquelyn Brooks Designs, photo by Sujie Wu for INsite Gainesville

AJNEL Designs, photo by Erik Knudsen for INsite Gainesville

For a town not often at the tip of the tongue when naming fashion destinations, Gainesville Fashion Week is a great cultural highlight in a town bursting with creativity, innovation, and talent.  

Photo courtesy: Sheraton Lake Bueno Vista Resort

Disney World gets all the hype when it comes to having fun in Orlando, but the city's resorts certainly know how to step up to the entertaining plate. At Sheraton Lake Buena Vista Resort, centrally located between the Disney parks and Universal Studios, you will find a sprawling playground for kids and adults. Fresh off a $25 million makeover, the resort hosts 490 updated guest rooms and an updated pool complex with two new pools, a 79-foot slide, water sports, and weekly dive-in movies.

You can take a break from the sun with a soothing massage at the Top of the Palms Spa, or slip in a reenergizing workout at the new fitness center. Dinner is best served at Zest—the hotel's Florida-inspired restaurant where you can feast on menu items like pomegranate glazed salmon and citrus-marinated mahimahi sandwiches with house-made chips. You might be tempted to skip the parks. 

SL Deal: Book online or use code STHLIV when you call (866/716-8106) to pay $594 (regularly $900) for this Southern Living-exclusive package:

• 4 days/3 nights in a Junior Suite (accommodates up to four people) 
• $100 resort credit 
• $75 credit for the Top of the Palms Spa 
• Valet parking for 3 nights (one vehicle)

Terms: Package does not include taxes, gratuity, and daily resort fee. A 48-hour cancellation notice is required.

By: Chelsea Bartel

Related Links: 
Southern Living: Deal of the Week: Room Upgrade and Free Amenities at The Inn at Palmetto Bluff
Southern Living: Deal of the Week: $75 Resort Credit + Gifts at High Hampton Inn 
Southern Living: Deal of the Week: 20% Off at the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort  
Southern Living: Deal of the Week: Suite Accommodations and Brunch at The Hotel at Auburn University 

Cheryl and Griffith outside of The Alabama Booksmith last week

Cheryl and Griffith Day sure found a sweet way to celebrate the 10th anniversary of their Savannah sweet spot, Back In the Day Bakery. The couple lovingly picked from their tried-and-true recipes for The Back in the Day Bakery Cookbook and packed it with generous helpings of tips. Chock-full of decadent desserts and childhood treats from Peach Cobbler Muffins to ‘Nana Puddin’, the book goes best with a sweet tooth and cold glass of milk. Fans of the iconic bakery will be delighted to find chapters that cover puddings and custards, cupcakes and cakes, and even confections (think homemade marshmallows and butter mints). 

Best of all, the recipes are simple enough to turn even Betty Crocker into a scratch-baking believer. Cheryl and Griff believe there is a “method to the magic” and cover baking fundamentals from creaming butter to measuring flour. No longer limited to selling their stuff in their retro-whimsical bakery, the Days can be sure that batches of their homespun desserts will soon be cooling in kitchens all over the South.

Last week, the pair stopped by The Alabama Booksmith to sign copies of their book and came bearing gifts: Old-Fashioned Cupcakes and Lavender Shortbread. For Cheryl, the book tour marked a return to Alabama where she spent her childhood summers and first baked the life-changing Chocolate Heaven cake with her grandma Hannah. She and Griff share more of their favorite food memories in the pages of their cookbook.

The couple came bearing gifts!

So what’s on the busy bakers’ dessert plate this summer? Cheryl says she’ll be having blackberry cobbler with homemade ice cream while Griffith says his favorite summer treats are strawberry cupcakes with fresh berries.

Cheryl and Griff have seven more Southern-city stops on their book tour. Get a taste of their new book and baked goods in a city near you. (And check out a mention of them in our April issue, page 22.)

April 13, 5 p.m.
Square Books, Oxford, MS

April 14, 10 a.m
Viking Cooking School, Greenwood, MS

April 14, 4 p.m.
TurnRow Books Company, Greenwood, MS

April 20, 7:30 p.m
Quail Ridge Book, Raleigh, NC

April 21, 2 p.m.
McIntyre’s Books, Pittsboro, NC    

April 26, 5 p.m.  
The Paris Market, Savannah, GA

May 13  
Atlanta Food & Wine Festival, Atlanta, GA

By: Jessica Stringer 

Related Links:
Southern Living: Something In Particular Film: A Salute to Southern Creativity
Southern Living: Hugh Acheson, Nice to Meet You 
Southern Living: Lit, List Kids Edition: Night Night Birmingham 

It's hard to believe the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival is just in its second year (May 10-13). The name already feels like a household staple in the world of food festivals, and the lineup of chefs and events go way beyond what you'd expect to find on a sophomore's schedule. The focus at Atlanta Food & Wine Festival is entirely Southern—it's all about honoring the region’s roots and its recent rise as a food mecca. 

You'll leave each day happily stuffed from the tastings, nibbling parties, and full-on sit-down dinners, but what makes the festival stand out (and what draws top chefs like John Besh, Chris Hastings, and Hugh Acheson to want to be integral parts of the festivities as part of the Advisory Council) is the emphasis on learning. "It's that focus on enriching life through food," Hot and Hot Fish Club chef Chris Hastings said at a preview event in Birmingham today. (See chef Chris Hastings making chicken & dumplings in our Test Kitchen!)

Chefs will team up to host 88 seminars ranging from cooking with cast iron (David Guas of Dam Good Swet and Marie Nygren of Serenbe Style and Soul), and using nearly extinct ingredients like heirloom seeds (Sean Brock of Husk Restaurant in Charleston), previously discarded trash fish like Gulf Hake and Almaco jack (Bryan Caswell of Reef in Houston), and mixing chemistry with classic Southern recipes (a panel moderated by The Lee Bros. and including Sean Brock, bartender Greg Best of Holeman & Finch Public House in Atlanta, and Ashley Christensen of Poole's Diner in Raleigh).

On Saturday, Southern Living Features Editor, Jennifer Cole, moderates the "Hog Heaven" panel with Nick Pihakis and Drew Robinson of Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q sharing tricks to perfect barbecue and talking about the importance of working with local farmers. 

Each day there will be a three-hour Festival Tasting Tent set up as culinary trails. Make your way through the fried chicken and Blackberry Farm's cheese trails before drinking your way through the bourbon and craft beer trails. More than 100 food and drink purveyors fill the tents (the lineup changes each day), and your $100 ticket gets you unlimited samplings of the homegrown goodness.

The days end with dinner and events at venues throughout town. We'd fight for a ticket to "Pig Out: Southern Style," ($65) the ultimate backyard Southern bash filled with barbecue, beer, and live music. Barbecue master Chris Lilly of Big Bob Gibson BBQ and the festival Advisory Council (aka 70 Southern chefs, sommeliers, and mixologists) host the event at JCT Kitchen in Atlanta's Westside on Friday.

For a more upscale affair, get a table at "Blackberry Farm: An Inaugural Tribute Dinner to Southern Farmers," ($250) held Saturday night at a six-acre estate in Buckhead. The festival's pop-up restaurant in Midtown on Saturday will show off "International Influences of New Orleans" ($150) with John Besh, John Currence, Brian Landry, and Alon Shaya serving up Crescent City fare with Spanish, French, German, and African origins.

Those who want an insider scoop on what's next for the Southern culinary scene should add the "Rathbun Watch List" ($75) to the schedule — 10 up-and-coming chefs from across the region will show off their chops at Rathbun's in Inman Park Saturday. 

New this year is a strengthened focus on cocktails. Bar chefs will get their own kitchen to work up their creations, which will be shown off at drink seminars and during the Southern Cocktail Hour on Saturday. Four bar chefs from Atlanta, DC, New Orleans, and Houston will showcase their city's unique drink scene; and sommelier Stephen Satterfield (founder of the International Society of Africans in Wine) will share his wine wisdom on the terrace. The wine scene is one area not restricted to being homegrown — although you will see some Southern wines—most will come from international southern regions like the South of France and South America. Laura Catena from Argentina's Catena Zapata wine family will talk about Argentina's wines beyond the Malbec. 

Atlanta Food & Wine Festival culminates on Sunday with "The Parting Bite: A Chorus of Greens," ($125) hosted by Atlanta food-scene pioneers Anne Quatrano and Lipton Hopkins. The menu will be greens driven to help you cleanse from your weekend of f&w decadence and end with a performance of Leaves of Greens, a Southern Foodways Alliance opera about collard greens composed by 20-year-old Price Walden. Price was also one of the runner-ups for our inaugural Heroes of the New South awards in March.

Tickets start at $100 for individual day tickets to the Tasting Tents to $2,000 for the Connoisseur 3-Day Pass. We wouldn't wait to get tickets at the door, they're being snatched up fast. Get yours at Atlanta Food & Wine Festival's website. 

Photo courtesy Inn at Palmetto Bluff

Nestled among 22,000 acres of marshland, maritime forests, and rivers, The Inn at Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton, SC is ideal for a Lowcountry escape. The resort seamlessly blends nature and luxury to create a retreat that is equal parts high-end resort and comforting summer home. There's plenty to do beyond taking in your lush surrounding; The Inn hosts an array of amenities from a Jack Nicklaus Golf Course and waterside dining, to 32 miles of river trails and guided alligator tracking tours. You'll get even closer to the rich land at the spa, where local resources are incorporated into treatment products like the Pluff mud used for body wraps. 

SL Deal: Use code “Southern Living” when you book to pay the best available rate (starting at $655 for doubles) and get all these extra amenities:

• Guest cottage accommodations with king-sized bed
• One dinner for two at the River House Dining Room or Canoe Club
• Daily breakfast for two at Buffalos
• Your choice of one of the following activities per person (some require two people) 
      - One round of golf at the May River Golf Club
      - 90-minute Palmetto Bluff Classic massage at The Spa
      - Four-hour Outback Tour (req. two participants)
      - Four-hour Daufuskie Island Beach Excursion (req. two participants)

Terms: Rates are based on double occupancy; two-night minimum stay. Taxes, resort fee, alcohol, and service apply.

—By Chelsea Bartel 

Cubby West and Melonie Tharpe, photo by Kelsey Snell  

While visiting Oxford, Mississippi, during the Oxford Conference for the Book weekend (March 22-24) we caught word about the Something in Particular project and heard its filming trio was in town. Atlanta artists Cubby West, Melonie Tharpe, and James Martin are traveling the South, hitting 13 cities in 30 days to film well-known and unsung artists and innovators telling their stories. We sat down with Melanie and Cubby to learn about their documentary on Southern creativity. There was no better place to talk with the girls than on the porch of Square Books, the iconic peach-and-periwinkle bookstore overlooking Oxford’s buzzing Square.

The project began with the filmmakers shared vision to shed light on the creative revival that’s taking place in the South. Showing this return to hands-on artistic communities requires personal stories, so Something in Particular hit the road to find them. They started on March 1 covering ground from Atlanta to Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina — a metropolis in the middle of an urban resurgence, long departed from its tobacco-country past. The filmmakers found that the Triangle is driven by innovators like CityFabric, a nationally known group rooted in North Carolina that uses maps and urban design to foster community; and bikeCOFFEE, a mobile coffee station that delivers hand-crafted, locally roasted coffees to events around the city. From there, Something in Particular went through Chattanooga, Louisville, Birmingham, and New Orleans meeting artists they’d researched or heard of along the way. They hauled as far as Austin to talk to the founders of a co-op artist space and gallery, UP Collective, which hosts community events like BYOB art socials.

In Oxford, the trio interviewed local artist Kate Roebuck about her online artist collective, BowerBird, where budding artists can show and sell their work. In the name of Southern hospitality, the Something in Particular gang stayed with shopkeeper and fellow creative, Erin Abbott, who was recently recognized by The New York Times as one of four women reviving Water Valley, Mississippi, the town where she lives. Erin is one of the young entrepreneurs and artists making the small town home and breathing life into quaint Water Valley with fresh ideas for town awakening. In Oxford, 30 minutes north of Water Valley, Erin opened Amelia, an art, stationery, and handmade market tucked in the corner of The Lyric Oxford. She recently launched the Amelia Online Store, where you can stock up on her hand-picked letterpressed notebooks, delicate garlands, and hand-stitched pillows.

The Something in Particular buck won’t stop with the film. The trio is working on an online directory of Southern creatives organized by city, so if you’re an artist pulling into Louisville, Kentucky, you’ll know just where to find kindred spirits—from potters and urban farmers to underground supper clubs.

Today, the Something in Particular crew will slide home to Atlanta to catch their breath before starting to catalogue stories and sift through scribbled notes and footage. While home, they’ll also spread word about their project and seek funding for another excursion to dig deeper into artist meccas of the South. Look out for a trailer debut of Something in Particular this summer and the full-length film to come next year.

— By Kelsey Snell

 Related Links:
Southern Living: Avett Brother Showcases Art Work in Charlotte Sunday
Southern Living: Dean Mitchell's "Rich In Spirit" Opens at the Gadsden Arts Center
Southern Living: Louisiana's Blue Dog Artist

This weekend has been a thrilling one in Leeds, Alabama. Located about 16 miles outside Birmingham (Southern Living's headquarters), Barber Motorsports Park is home to the Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama. It's a gem for the Birmingham metro area, hosting races and events that draw a national crowd. (It's also home to the Porsche Driving School of North America, but we'll get to that in a minute.)

A group of Southern Living editors had the pleasure of attending the race yesterday. Truth be told, we were excited to get to meet one of the drivers, Patrick Dempsey of "Grey's Anatomy." 

But what we learned was so much more. First, Barber Motorsports hosts car (including Indy) and motorcycle races (AMA Superbike Races). Fans come from around the South -- and the U.S. -- to the track, which is located on 740 acres. The setting is beautiful -- like a race track was deposited in the middle of pristine Alabama countryside.  

In addition to hosting races (and being home to a vintage motorcycle museum), Barber is also home to the only Porsche Driving School in North America. We got to take a spin with one of the instructors in this amazing Porsche. At one point we went 120 miles an hour -- what a thrill!  

It was just as exciting to meet the drivers and their families competing at the event. We got to know the folks at Dempsey Racing (who is sponsored by VisitFlorida.com), and check out their cool cars:

Based in Atlanta, the team was founded when Patrick Dempsey teamed up with his instructor, Joe Foster. Among the drivers are Here is Lutz, FL resident Charles Espenlaub. And then, of course, there's Dr. Derek Shepherd, er, Mr. Dempsey (who was most gracious posing for pictures).

Did the chance of spotting Patrick Dempsey get us there? Yep, it did. But we found ourselves walking the grounds talking about how much fun it would be to go back for another race. Watching fast cars, enjoying the beautiful Southern weather ... what else could a girl ask for? (OK, a dash of George Clooney would be nice too.)

We'll be back.

Question: Do you love car racing? We want to hear from you! Leave us a comment and tell us why.  

Photo courtesy Eric Frommer via Flickr
 

Bluegrass legend Earl Scruggs passed away in Nashville yesterday, at the age of 88. You may know him as the man behind the “Ballad of Jed Clampett,” (from The Beverly Hillbillies) or from “The Foggy Mountain Breakdown” of 1967’s Bonnie and Clyde—his bright banjo sounds, the backdrop to the bumping along of the infamous up-to-no-good pair.

Born in North Carolina in 1924, Scruggs became a genre forerunner when he modified his home state’s three-finger pick and adopted a roll and pluck method. He gave a new complexity to the five-string sound. In 1945, Scruggs was an original member of the Bill Monroe Bluegrass Boys (along with Lester Flatt) before the two formed the Foggy Mountain Boys three years later.

His style has influenced generations of musicians. From CBSNews.com:

"Actor and accomplished banjo player Steve Martin called Scruggs, with whom he collaborated in 2001 on 'Earl Scruggs and Friends,' 'the most important banjo player who ever lived.'

Tennessean: Earl Scruggs, Country Music Hall of Famer and Bluegrass Innovator, Dies at Age 88

Wall Street Journal: Earl Scruggs, The Babe Ruth of Banjo 

The historic High Hampton Inn & Country Club in Cashiers, NC retains the feel of a (well-heeled) family member's summer home with 116 rustic rooms and cottages anchored by a 35-acre private lake in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The space has been updated with modern conveniences like an on-site spa and gym, but the experience remains a throwback to the early 1920s when the lodge was built — there are still no TVs or gadgets in the bedroom and dinner is served with men donning coats in The Dining Room every night. There is always a family-centric event to pass the time like golf classes, waterfall hiking tours, or campfire storytelling, but with 1,400 acres of land to roam you choose how you spend your languid days. High Hampton celebrates its 90th birthday this year when it opens for the season April 29. 

SL Deal: Use code "Southern Living" when you call to book to get a $75 resort credit (good for any resort activity or amenity including golf, the Hampton Health Club & Spa, the Pro Shop and Gift Shop, and the Hampton Market), plus a complimentary bottle of wine and a High Hampton Inn fleece blanket.

Rates start at $249 (Sunday through Thursday) for two people including three meals a day. Call High Hampton, 800/334-2551, to book your SL deal. 

Terms: Valid during weekdays stays (Sunday-Thursday nights) from April 29 to June 7. Blackout dates apply. Not valid during weekends and holidays. 

Southern trendsetters converge under the tents in Marion Square today as Charleston Fashion Week kicks off with parties, runway shows, and celebrity appearances. One of the highlights of CFW has always been the Emerging Designer Competition, which in the past has propelled designers like Marysia Dobrzanska Reeves, Carol Hannah Whitfield, and Lindsey Carter into the mainstream realms of retail. This year the panel of judges who preside over the faith of the up-and-coming designers include ELLE magazine editor, Anne Slowey; creator of New York Fashion Week, Fern Mallis; designer Mychael Knight; and actress Vanessa Lachey 

Over the past five years, CFW has grown to attract designers from across the U.S., but Southern talent still reins at the five-day affair. Here are some of the collections we can't wait to see at this year's shows. 

Mamie Ruth — Savannah-based Emily Bergeron's maxi dresses with colorful bodices and flowing skirts are perfect for summer. Showing Tuesday. 

Faith Annette Thornburg — Some of these SCAD grad designer's weddings dresses are totally wearable for a midsummer's night's soiree. Showing Saturday. 

Nancy Faw Crowell — How adorable is this plaid trimmed cape from the Murrel's Inlet children's wear designer? Showing Thursday.

Vartika Vikram — Bring on the petticoats! This Charleston designer is all about volume. Showing Thursday. 

By Vilette — Pleats and draping bring a modern appeal to this romantic line by Raleigh gals Kelly Ruehlman and Amy Quinn. Showing Thursday. 

The James Beard Foundation has announced nominees for its prestigious annual awards today (see the full list of nominees here). Southern Living is proud to be nominated for our Collection of Best Southern Recipes, 2011: "Nuts About Pecans," "The Ultimate Southern Thanksgiving Cookbook," and "12 Ways to Show Your Holiday Hospitality."

Among notable Southerners on the list is Donald Link of New Orleans’ Herbsaint. Link is one of only six chefs in the nation to be nominated for the prestigious "Outstanding Chef."  

This category honors "a working chef in America whose career has set national industry standards and who has served as an inspiration to other food professionals." 

(Link is pictured in this photo [middle] as part of Southern Living's Tastiest Towns in the South feature in the April issue.)

We salute all of the nominees and their contributions to food and culture. The journalism and book award winners will be announced May 4, and the chef and restaurant winners will be announced May 7.

Photo: Robbie Caponetto

Here’s to these Best Chef nominees in their regions:

Mid-Atlantic (Defined by the James Beard Foundation as D.C., DE, MD, NJ, PA, and VA)

Four out of five of the chefs nominated from the Mid-Atlantaic region are from the Metro-DC area: Cathal Armstrong of Restaurant Eve in Alexandria, VA; Johnny Monis of Komi; Peter Pastan of Obelisk; and Vikram Sunderam of Rasika.

South (Defined by The James Beard Foundation as AL, AR, FL, LA, and MS)

Four out of the five nominees for "Best Chef: South" hail from New Orleans--a major nod to the Crescent City. They are Justin Devillier of La Petite Grocery, John Harris of Lilette, Tory McPhail of Commander’s Palace, and Alon Shaya of Domenica.

Also nominated is Birmingham’s Hot and Hot Fish Club chef Chris Hastings. 

Southeast (Defined by The James Beard Founation as GA, KY, NC, SC, TN, and WV)

Hugh Acheson of Five and Ten in Athens, GA

Craig Deihl of Cypress in Charleston

Linton Hopkins of Restaurant Eugene in Atlanta

Edward Lee of 610 Magnolia in Louisville, KY

Joseph Lenn of The Barn at Blackberry Farm in Walland, TN

Southwest (AZ, CO, NM, NV, OK, TK, UT)

Bruce Auden of Biga on the Banks in San Antonio

Bruno Davaillon of Mansion Restaurant at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek

Hugo Ortega of Hugo’s in Houston

Paul Qui of Uchiko in Austin

And congratulations to these Southern nominees and culinary tastemakers: 

Washington, D.C.’s Fiola is a Best New Restaurant nominee

Sam Calagione of Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in Milton, DE is recognized as an Oustanding Beer Professional

Emeril’s New Orleans and The Barn at Blackberry Farm in Walland, TN (also nominated for Southeast Best Chef) boast nominations for Outstanding Wine Program.

Hedy Goldsmith, nominated for Outstanding Pastry Chef, is from Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink in Miami.

Sue Zemanick of New Orleans’ Gautreau’s is nominated for Rising Star Chef of the Year.

Highlands Bar and Grill in Birmingham is nominated for Best Restaurant.

--By Kelsey Snell

Related Links:

Southern Living: Experience Luxury at Blackberry Farms

Southern Living: Learn How To Cook Chicken Dumplings With Chris Hastings

Southern Living: Hugh Acheson, Nice To Meet You

Photo courtesy Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort

The warmer temps have us all dreaming of coastal escapes. Today's deal from Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort is all about making that happen. The hotel, part of the luxurious Palmetto Dunes Resort community, epitomizes coastal charm with its location on a white sandy beach dolled up with live oaks.

The rooms are spacious (the largest on the island; they start at 550 square feet!) and outfitted with private balconies to take in the ocean views. Like a gracious Southern host, the Omni offers a range of activities from three championship golf courses, an 11-mile lagoon for kayaking and canoeing, bike trails, and beachside hot tubs to keep the whole lot entertained. 

SL Exclusive Deal: Use booking code WELCOME2 to receive 20% off standard rates now through August 30. SL Guests will also be treated to a sweet welcome with the property's signature white chocolate pound cake and lemonade at arrival.

Book now!

Terms: Rate is subject to availability. Only valid for stays through August 30, 2012. Guests are responsible for resort fee and incidental charges during their stay. Advanced reservations are required. 72-hour resort cancellation policy applies.

— By: Chelsea Bartel 

Last year, we got to know Andy and Rashmi Grace. Andy, a film professor at the University of Alabama, and Rashmi, a geologist, are the founders of the Druid City Garden Project, a Tuscaloosa-based non-profit that works to make healthy, local food available to all.

When we met them last May, they were rebuilding the after the destruction of the April 27 tornadoes, which caused significant damage to the community garden they run. They were also working to cook fresh, healthy meals for those impacted by the storms. Along with their friends--mostly other UA professors and students--they worked with local farmers to secure donated produce, which they turned into large, healthy meals, delivered to shelters and volunteers. (See: "What Stands In A Storm.")

Nearly a year later, the garden at University Place Elementary School is back in action, and Andy and Rashmi are continuing their broader mission to make fresh grown food accessible to their community. 

On Sunday, March 25, the Fourth Annual Swine and Wine Twilight Supper will benefit the Druid City Garden Project. The Birmingham event is coordinated by Maureen and Cliff Holt of Birmingham’s Little Savannah Restaurant, and will feature 14 chefs and their food, with an emphasis on local, Southern food and wine. (Though the menu is still being finalized, we have it on good authority that a pig roast will be involved.)

“The event is imperative not only because it raises awareness and money for the programs that are teaching children and adults alike about eating healthy, but also emphasizes the understanding of where our food comes from,” says Maureen Holt. 

The family-friendly event starts at 5 p.m. at Old Car Heaven, 115 35th Street South. Chefs include C, Stephen Stryjewski of New Orleans; Jay Caputo of Espuma and Porcini House Restaurant in Rehobath Beach, Delaware; Rick Gresh of David Burke’s Prime House in Chicago; Cliff Holt; Jeffery Hansel of Veranda on Highland; Jonathon “Rusty” Tucker of Rusty’s Barbeque; Haller MaGee of Satterfields; Ryan Hagemann of Whole Foods; Chris and Leah Harrigan of Stone’s Throw; Rob McDaniel of Spring House; Chad Schofield and Mac Russell of Shindigs Catering and Food Truck; Chris Vizzina of Campus Dining, Inc.; Chris and Anna Newsome of Ollie Irene; Daniel Briggs of Daniel George; and Steve La May and Bill St. John. 

Bluegrass music will be provided by Chattanooga’s Lou Wamp & Swing Shift. A children’s area will include a creative drawing contest, pig face painting, and seedling planting activities with Druid City Garden Project.

Tickets are available online here. They are $45 if you order online, $20 for 13-20 year olds, 12 and under free.

We'll be there, and hope to see you too. And, while you're at it, check out Andy and Rashmi's documentary, "Eating Alabama," about their mission to eat local for a year. It premiered last week at the South by Southwest Film Festival to great reviews. 

Photo courtesy The Hotel at Auburn University 

Today’s deal of the week invites you to cross loyalty lines into War Eagle territory (we won’t tell!) Affectionately called “The Loveliest Village on the Plains,” Auburn makes for a great weekend getaway, and this week The Hotel at Auburn University is offering an exclusive package to SL readers. Mention Southern Living when you call to book to get suite accommodations on weekend stays (Friday and Saturday night), and Sunday Jazz Brunch for two at Ariccia Italian Trattoria & Bar for $450 — a 25% saving valid now through September 1.  

The hotel is located within walking distance to Auburn’s campus and the famous Toomer’s Corner, but you can enjoy two local hot spots without leaving the building. The hotel's Ariccia Trattoria & Bar plates up hearth-baked pizzas and homemade pastas from its open kitchen; and jazz-lounge Piccolo, serves small bites, sweets, and craft cocktails. A much more grown-up side to this charming college town, indeed. 

Terms: The offer will run through Labor Day weekend 2012. Blackout dates are May 4-6, 2012 and August 3-5, 2012. Offer is subject guest room availability. 

By: Chelsea Bartel 

Photo courtesy Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort 

Calling all wine lovers — this week's deal gets you access to flowing vino and white sandy beaches at the Sandestin Wine Festival April 27-29 at the Village of Baytowne Wharf. Dubbed the "Kentucky Derby of Wine Festivals," this year’s event showcases 800 wines spanning all style and price points; cooking and wine demos; chef dinners; and the chance to exchange wisdom with true wine connoisseurs. Added this year is the Mediterranean-inspired Culinary Pavilion with tastings of items like fig cake and French cassoulet prepared by celeb chefs in the area. 

Southern Living readers can use booking code SLWINE to pay $705 for two nights (Saturday and Sunday) of studio accommodations at the newest beach rental property in town, the Sandestin Luau community; and admission on both festival days, saving you $115.

Book online at Sandestin.com/Southern, or call 800/622-1086 and mention promo code SLWINE.

Terms: Rate is subject to availability; limited rooms available. Must be 25 years of age to check in. Only valid for stays during the weekend of the 26th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival (April 26-28). This special cannot be combined with any other group rate, special or offer. Restrictions apply.

— By: Chelsea Bartel 

Last night was a strong night for the South at the Oscars, with two major wins from Southerners. 

First, Octavia Spencer, Alabama native and Auburn graduate took home the "Best Supporting Actress" for her role in "The Help." During her moving acceptance speech she thanked her family, colleagues from "The Help" and her home state of Alabama. We are so proud! (The photo at the left is from her Golden Globe win, People.)

"The Help" was written by Mississippi native Kathryn Stockett, MS. (Kathryn sat down to talk with us recently in this interview.)

Also winning big last night was William Joyce, who took home the Oscar for "Best Short Film, Animated," for "The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore." Joyce, a native of Shreveport, LA, is an author, illustrator and digital animator. His production company, Moonboot Studios, is based in Shreveport.  

(Here's our interview with him in which he dishes on his favorite Shreveport haunts.) 

Our hats also go off to the "The Barber of Birmingham: Foot Soldier of the Civil Rights Movement," which was nominated for best documentary short. (Al.com story.)

Congratulations to all the Southern winners and nominees -- you make us proud!  

Photo courtesy Barnsley Gardens Resort

Before you dig into your spring cleaning take a romantic getaway that delivers on rustic elegance and historic style. This week’s SL-exclusive deal plants you in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains at Barnsley Gardens Resort in Adairsville, GA — just a quick road trip from Atlanta, Chattanooga, and Birmingham.

Recharge at the resort’s top-ranked spa, tee off at the Jim Fazio-designed golf course, or indulge your sense of adventure with more than 10 miles of trails for hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts. 

Mention Southern Living when you call to book to receive a $100 resort credit (valid on all resort activities like bike rentals, spa treatments, and dining), and discounted rates now through March 15. The savings, worth 25 percent, get you a Manor Room with a king bed for $299 a night, or the Manor Room with doubles for $259 a night. 

For an extra indulgence ask about reserving a private dinner in the ruins of the villa Godfrey Barnsley built for the love of his life, Julia, in the 1800s. 

Terms: Offer valid on weekday stays only (Sunday-Thursday); rate does not include taxes. Must book by phone to redeem offer. 

-By: Chelsea Bartel

Cash in on these past deals!

Win 4 Days/3 Nights at the Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans — Five days left to submit!

$100 resort credit at Ocean Key in Key West

10% Off The Brazilian Court in Palm Beach

25% Off La Torretta in Texas

If you’re a day trip or less from Charlotte this weekend don’t miss this event. Most people know The Avett Brothers for their Southern-rooted folk rock, but a lesser-known dimension is founding brother Scott Avett’s fine art skills. Die-hard fans might recognize his work from album art and posters he’s created for the band.

Julianne in Vain, Scott Avett for I And Love And You 2009 album cover art

Scott got his BFA in painting from East Carolina University in the 1990s and has since been creating his figurative paintings focused on portraiture and spirituality in between winning over the music industry with his brothers, Seth Avett, and Bob Crawford. On Saturday, his latest exhibit, "Exploring Story & Spirituality," will be on display at the Morrison Condominiums in Charlotte's South Park neighborhood, where attendants will be able to to buy original works and commemorative posters.

Self Portrait, Scott Avett

A private reception, including a 45-minute guided walk and a talk with Scott will be held on Friday from 7:30 to 9:30pm as a fundraiser for The Educational Center. Tickets are $100, including hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and a chance to shake hands with one of the music scene's brightest.

Dates & Deets:

• Saturday, February 25 from 10am to 4pm pm at Morrison Condominiums, 532 Governor Morrison Street. 
• Opening reception: Friday, February 24 from 7:30 to 9:30 pm at Morrison Condominiums
• Reception tickets are first-come, first-serve for $100 at at ArtStorySpirit.com. 
• All proceeds benefit The Educational Center, a faith-based nonprofit in Charlotte. 

See our behind-the-scenes video of the trio performing "Pretty Girl From Raleigh" 

Photo courtesy Ocean Key Resort & Spa

As winter drags on shake off the cold-weather woes and head south to the Keys with our handy Key West guide in hand and this week's deal of the week.

We teamed up with the Ocean Key Resort & Spa to bring you this deal for a chance to enjoy waterfront accommodations without breaking the bank. During your stay you'll lounge poolside, walk to must-sees like Old Town, and Mallory Square; and dance the night away at the Gulf-side Sunset Pier restaurant —one of the best seats in town for watching the sunset.

Enter the promo code SOLIV when booking online to get best available rate on premium oceanfront rooms and suites, and a daily $100 resort credit per room valid for purchases at all resort restaurants and bars, spa, gift boutique, and incidental charges. The warm sand beckons. Book now! 

Terms: Rate is subject to availability. Offer expires March 1, 2012.

By: Chelsea Bartel 

The next wave of Southern artisans is rising, and the stars come caffeinated and equipped with kettles and milk pitchers. Their masterpieces are rarely more than $4 and their studios always open, just walk into your neighborhood café.

Last weekend we headed to Atlanta for the Southeast Regional Barista Competition & Brewer's Cup for a two-day showdown that recognized baristas, the newest inductees to the craft-food industry. On day one, 28 baristas manned espresso machines in front of a discerning panel, while 13 others competed in the Brewers Cup challenge, which focuses on manually brewed coffee that's nothing like your typical diner drip. Six from each category poured and pulled into Saturday’s finals.

Participating baristas got to show off their creativity by concocting a signature beverage (known in the biz as “sig bev”), bringing forth surprises like cigar smoke-infused foam and homemade ginger cotton candy. One of the only two females in the finals, Lindsey Kiser, of Peregrine Espresso in DC took home the coffee crown with her pairing of Counter Culture Coffee's spicy Baroida espresso with the ginger confection. We'll be cheering for Lindsey when she advances to the April Barista Championship in Portland. On the Brewer's Cup front, Matthew Ludwikowski from Atlanta’s own Octane Coffee won with an El Salvadorian coffee and his Chemex scientific coffeemaker.

So, what did this event tell us about coffee culture in the South? Elizabeth Justus, a judge and co-owner of Open Eye Cafe in Carrboro, NC, puts it best. “The walls are torn down here. This community is just extended family.” Around table or cup, like so many Southern traditions, it’s all about congregating and family. 

By: Kelsey Snell 

We want to know what made your vacation in Georgia different than elsewhere in the South, tell us your twist on your favorite Georgia vacation memory?

Guest post by Barnsley Gardens Resort's wine connoisseur, Wine Snob Greg Teague

As the resident Wine Snob of Barnsley Gardens Resort, I’m responsible for developing the wine culture of the resort.  We pride ourselves on having a vast wine list, with plenty to please both aficionados and novices.  While pondering wines best suited to kick off the evenings for our upcoming Winter Wine Dinner Series, my thoughts turned to Valentine’s Day.  What wines would I personally recommend for the holiday?  Instead of trying to pair straightforward flavors and dishes, I chose to act as a playful Cupid to inspire passion and romance.

Fun and romantic to all, conversation hearts, with their simple “I Love You” and “Be Mine,” would be fun to pair with a bottle of delicious Gruet, Demi Sec sparkling wine from New Mexico.  Drop the heart in the bottom of the glass for a pretty, fizzy concoction.  

Instead of an indoor fireplace, bundle up in blankets and venture outside to a fire pit.  Set up a table topped with juicy strawberries dipped in rich chocolate, two glasses, and a bottle of Vietti Barbera d’Asti Tre Vigne from Italy.  

Need an excuse to curl up on the couch?  Break out your favorite DVD and pair it with comfort foods for a living room picnic. Try fried lobster tails (said to be an aphrodisiac) with spicy honey mustard paired with Pierre Péters Cuvee de Reserve Blanc de Blancs, a small production Champagne that has hints of nuts and yeast.

Another love-inspiring food is mushrooms. Pair it with a bottle of Quadrimendo, Tenuta Vitanza, Toscana, Italy IGT, which has an underlying earthy flavor. You can dine on just the mushrooms or add them (or shaved truffles or truffle oil) to your meal to enjoy this unique, delicious flavor. 

I hope my suggestions will encourage you and your special someone to try something new this year. Happy Valentine’s Day!

— The Wine Snob

Meet the Wine Snob at the one Barnsley Gardens' February events.