A Tank of Gas and a Day Off Archives

PUBLIC ART Reveals Civic Pride in Cartersville, GA and Clarksville, TN

10/21/2019 By: CCPearson2 Comments

Small towns can have enormous civic pride, and I believe it often reveals itself in the form of public art. When a town cares enough to pay artists to paint murals in key places or create sculptures representing unity, deep moral values or the lives of deeply-loved members of the community, it says a lot. These works and objects provide beauty, evoke imagination, cause a chuckle, inspire and help to educate residents and visitors who come to their towns.

In June of 2018, Ms. Patricia Walsh wrote an article in Americans for the Arts outlining five reasons why public art makes a difference. From my observations as a travel writer, a former music and art teacher and as a lifelong promoter of the arts, I agree with her.

Five Reasons Why Public Art Matters

Art in public spaces plays a distinguishing role in our country’s history and culture. It reflects and reveals our society, enhances meaning in our civic spaces, and adds uniqueness to our communities. Public art humanizes the built environment. It provides an intersection between past, present, and future; between disciplines and ideas. Public art matters because our communities gain cultural, social, and economic value through public art.

Economic Growth and Sustainability. By engaging in public art as a tool for growth and sustainability, communities can thrive economically. Seventy percent of Americans believe that the “arts improve the image and identity” of their community.
Attachment and Cultural Identity. Public art directly influences how people see and connect with a place, providing access to aesthetics that support its identity and making residents feel appreciated and valued. Aesthetics is one of the top three characteristics why residents attach themselves to a community.
Artists as Contributors. Providing a public art ecosystem supports artists and other creatives by validating them as important contributors to the community. Artists are highly entrepreneurial. They are 3.5 times more likely than the total U.S. work force to be self-employed.
Social Cohesion and Cultural Understanding. Public art provides a visual mechanism for understanding other cultures and perspectives, reinforcing social connectivity with others. Seventy-three percent of Americans agree that the arts “help me understand other cultures better.”
Public Health and Belonging. Public art addresses public health and personal illness by reducing stress, providing a sense of belonging, and addressing stigmas towards those with mental health issues. Public art is noted as slowing pedestrians down to enjoy their space and providing a positive impact on mood.

Both Clarksville, TN and Cartersville, GA have relatively small populations, but their city leaders understand the impact of public art. Here are a few examples in each town that I was able to photograph in recent months. While you look at the photos, imagine what could be done in your own community.

Cartersville GA — Can you spot the mistake?

Look for these works when you visit Cartersville and Clarksville and talk to your city council members about getting something started in your own town. There are many talented artists needing our support and encouragement. Or, tell me about the public art where you live. I’d love to come and see it in person.

Girls (and their Grandmother) Just Want to Have Fun

10/14/2019 By: CCPearsoncomment

For five years now, Granddaddy (a.k.a. my Silver Fox) has been taking grandsons to an Auburn football game — first with 3 boys, then a couple of years with 4, now this year with FIVE. He has a gargantuan task, yet it’s one he embraces with his whole heart. They pile in the truck and drive for hours, arrive on campus and walk for miles, bake in the sun of the upperdeck, cheer until they’re hoarse, then drive for hours once again. Along the way, they make memories, laugh like crazy and eat at Waffle House, where, according to Sam “they give you free butter and syrup.” 🙂 In comparison, my job is a piece of cake.

For two of our children’s families, if their girls are allowed to visit, it means a free weekend for those two sets of parents. And, since those two girls have birthdays just 10 days apart, it makes perfect sense to celebrate here, get some birthday cash and spend a day shopping with Grandmomma (me!).

We put in some hard hours and literally do shop until at least one of us drops or until they spend all their money. Physically speaking, it’s an exhausting gig, but otherwise it’s pretty simple if we follow a few key principles. Entertaining pre-teen girls, after all, isn’t rocket science. 🙂

Let THEM make the plan. They know which stores have the products they most want, and the kitchen stores or home decorating stores that I might prefer are NOT among them. It’s THEIR day, not mine. On second thought, it IS my day, too. I’m alive. I’m physically able to keep up with these girls, and they actually WANT to spend this day with me. What could possibly be better?

This is what they presented to me as an itinerary for our day. Notice only one bathroom break. Also notice that several stores were to be visited twice.

2. Tune into the radio station they request and be rewarded with sweet singing. In Birti and Megan’s case, the choice was WAY-FM, the Christian station, and they knew every song. What encouragement to my heart!

3. Allow them plenty of time to look, think and decide. This may be the most important point, and it’s a luxury that grandmothers have over their mothers. Their mothers have many plates spinning, simultaneously, every day. Their grandmother doesn’t — at least for this one day.

4. They get to choose where, what and when they eat. Even if grandmother is a travel and food writer and blogger with a cute restaurant in mind to suggest, on this day, their preferences trump my own. They were intent on continuing their shopping when hunger pangs hit. Understandably, getting in the car and driving to a restaurant when a perfectly good food court was within sight just didn’t make sense. The food court won.

5. Throw in a fun surprise. This year I suggested pedicures, and they loved it. No boring colors for them, though. Only the brightest and wildest. 🙂

5. Applaud their choices and admire the fact that they wanted to shop AND still have money left over. If they keep this up, they will have happier husbands in the future.

Birti’s choices — also reflecting her preferences.

6. Savor the downtime moments. We got home in time for a dip in the pool, showers, then snuggling on the couch with pizza and the Auburn game on TV. Megan happily put her new Legos together, while Birti relaxed with her head on my shoulder. So nice.

Admittedly, younger granddaughters need much more guidance and supervision. With older granddaughters, you are lucky to get small snippets of their time and attention. Very lucky. Bear in mind that my EIGHT granddaughters range in age from 3 months old to almost 19 and a freshman in college. So, I’d say that these years between ages 10-14 are GOLDEN. I’m just glad to be a part of their lives at any stage.

Winning stores this year were at Parkway Place Mall and Target — Claire’s, Justice, Belk. Previous years have included Build-a-Bear and Bath and Body Works.

I’d love to hear what principles/suggestions/stores/activities you’d like to recommend, so I can begin thinking about next year.

Morgan Price Candy Company in Decatur, AL

08/19/2019 By: CCPearsoncomment

English toffee from Morgan Price Candy Company in Decatur, Alabama, is on the list of “100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die.” No wonder! The stuff is heavenly. What’s not to like about butter, sugar, chocolate, and crushed almonds prepared precisely and perfectly?

I visited recently when expert candy-maker Annie was preparing several fresh batches. She knows the formula and turns out tray after tray of crunchy sweetness.

Annie has perfected the process of making perfect English toffee.

Sprinkling the crushed almonds onto the chocolate.

Morgan Price Candy Company has been serving Morgan County sweets-lovers for 32 years and has been in their present location on 6th Avenue (Highway 31 S) for about 3 years of that time. It’s a great store full of attractive gifts and, of course, candy-themed baskets and boxes.

Gelato was added to the summertime offerings a year or so ago and will continue to be made this year until the end of September. So, go quickly, while it’s sweltering outside and enjoy this creamy, cool treat.

I spied something new on the shelves — Ruby cocoa beans! I’m kicking myself for not trying it while I was there, but that gives me a great reason for a return visit.

For toffee, gelato, or beautiful gifts, I highly recommend a trip to Morgan Price Candy Company. Please tell my friends Terry Mayfield and Linda Williams (who help make the magic happen) that I sent you.

Summer’s Beauty and Bounty

07/26/2019 By: CCPearsoncomment

For the beauty of the earth, for the glory of the skies, for the love which from our birth over and around us lies — Christ our God, to Thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise.

For the wonder of each hour of the day and of the night, hill and vale, and tree and flower, sun and moon and starts of light — Christ our God, to Thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise.

Granddaughter Margaret is learning to play this hymn right now, declaring it one of her favorites. She’s a diligent student, so I have no doubt she’ll be playing it fluidly very soon. I’m also extremely glad that she knows this hymn and loves it. Grateful praise. Beauty of the earth. And, right now, the summertime beauty of the earth is on full display, along with the bounty produced from gardens as a result of the sun and rain coming down from God, our Father.

Psalm 24: 1 – ” The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein.”

Psalm 23:2-3 – “He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.”

Genesis 1:31 – “And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.”

I love a farmer’s market in the morning.

I love this display of blooming crepe myrtle trees showing out profusely beside the railroad tracks in Decatur, AL.

I love anticipating the taste of these vegetables and fruits I’ll prepare for our supper.

And, I love this most beautiful evidence of God’s love and provision He brought to our family — our newest grandchild, Baby Beatrix.

So, today I am singing my own “hymn of grateful praise.” I hope you’ll join me.

Thank you, Father, for this season of the year, for the beauty and bounty that comes with it. I thank you for the colors of the flowers and garden produce. I love the energy we feel from the sun and the cooling sensation of the rain. Most of all, I thank you for being the Creator and Giver of Life and for being so good to our family. Amen.

A Fabulous Burger, a Gorgeous Shop and Some Surprising History in Clarksville, Tennessee

06/10/2019 By: CCPearson1 Comment

I didn’t expect to be so impressed with a burger and the vibe of a diner as I was with Johnny’s Big Burger near the campus of Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee. (For a fun side note that will particularly appeal to junior-high-aged boys, the cheer for Austin Peay is . . . you guessed it “Let’s Go, Peay!” and I have the souvenir car tag to prove it).

JOHNNY’S BIG BURGER

Johnny’s has been serving Austin Peay students and townspeople alike since 1965. The burger meat is said to be triple-ground, making it some of the smoothest and most tender you will ever eat. The fries are just as remarkable, as are the thick shakes. But, many students declare they there were able to continue all-night study marathons thanks to a “bun and cream” from Johnny’s. Translation: a honey bun that has been grilled in butter and topped with vanilla ice cream. The sugar rush alone could add 20 points to a test score. 🙂

The prices were, and still are, student-friendly. You’ll be lucky to find a table or a seat at the counter when you get a chance to visit.

JOURNEY’S EYE STUDIO

Journey’s Eye Studio, owned and tastefully stocked by Jodie Isaacs, is one of the prettiest home decor and boutique stores I have visited in a long time. You’ll find every wall, nook and cranny filled with beautiful and unusual items that call out, “Take me home. Take me home.” I just needed more time. I’ll definitely save up and go back.

A view of the main showroom at Journey’s Eye Studio.

An interesting display of goods at Journey’s Eye Studio.

Fascinating ceiling inside Journey’s Eye Studio

FORT DEFIANCE CIVIL WAR PARK

I wondered why so many antebellum homes and buildings were still intact around Clarksville when so many other cities in the South were torched by Union troops. What I learned is that Clarksville was full of wealthy tobacco farmers who knew the fate Clarksville faced if they engaged in battle. By that time (1862) they had heard about the destruction in so many other places and knew the odds weren’t good. So, they persuaded the powers that be to surrender and allowed themselves, their homes and property to be used by Union troops during the remaining years of the war. You can learn many more fascinating details when you visit Fort Defiance Civil War Park.

CUSTOMS HOUSE MUSEUM

This building reflecting a number of architectural styles was built in 1898 and to this day is one of the most photographed buildings in Clarksville. In addition to a gift shop and an extensive model train exhibit, you’ll find first class displays paying tribute to the successful citizens of Clarksville and many significant happenings through the years.

Be sure to look for the large collection of Boehm porcelain pieces — one of the largest collections in the southeast, in fact — and take children or grandchildren to see the Bubble Cave. They’ll love it!

Wedding gowns on display at the Customs House Museum.

What are you waiting for? You’ll be glad you planned a visit to Clarksville.

Dinner and a Show in Downtown Clarksville, Tennessee

06/03/2019 By: CCPearsoncomment

Avoid the heavy traffic and the high prices of Nashville by driving a short distance northwest to Clarksville, Tennessee. From North Alabama, get on I-840 West before you get to Franklin, for extra smooth sailing that will avoid ALL of the downtown Nashville craziness.

ROXY REGIONAL THEATRE

The Roxy Regional Theatre is the only professional theater within a 45-50 mile radius and offers performances 345 days a year. Check roxyregionaltheatre.org to see upcoming events. Ticket prices are generally $25 for adults and $15 for children with musicals costing $5 more per ticket. Performers are recruited from New York and Nashville in order to provide the highest possible quality. Ryan Bowie has been the Executive Director since 2016, and is bringing both energy and experience to this job. There are 153 seats in the Main Theatre, and sources tell me there’s not a single bad seat.

After 5:00 p.m. on week days and on weekends, parking is free on the street, in the lot beside the building and in two nearby garages. Be sure to notice the statue of Frank Sutton across the street. He became well-known through the Gomer Pyle sitcoms playing the role of “Sergeant Carter.”

You will want to plan lunch or dinner before a performance, since there are a number of great eating places within walking distance of the theater. Three that I recommend are: Roux Americajun (yes, you’ll think you’re in New Orleans when you read the menu), Edward’s Steakhouse (probably Clarksville’s most romantic restaurant), and Strawberry Alley Ale Works.

ROUX AMERICAJUN

Roux Americajun, 125 Franklin Street, lives up to its slogan: “New Orleans is just a bite away.” Boudin balls, crawfish bread, corn maque choux, and crawfish etouffee nachos stand out in the appetizer list with red beans and rice and seafood gumbo right behind. Po’ Boys, shrimp and grits, jambalaya, beignets and bread pudding continue the NOLA theme.

You’ll love the vintage look of the repurposed building.

Small portions from a Cajun sampler platter that I shared with a friend. Lots of NOLA flavor!

EDWARD’S STEAKHOUSE

Edward’s Steakhouse, 107 Franklin Street right across from the Roxy, has a similar look to Roux Americajun with its exposed brick walls and hardwood floors. Steaks may be the specialties at Edward’s, but there are a generous number of chicken, pork, lamb, seafood and pasta entree choices as well. And the appetizers range from raw oysters to fried green beans with just about everything you can name in between.

Edward’s looks unassuming on the outside but very cozy, attractive and inviting on the inside.

STRAWBERRY ALLEY ALE WORKS

Strawberry Alley Ale Works, at 103 Strawberry Alley, is just a few blocks away from the Roxy. Healthy options are noticeable on the menu, such as avocado toast, veggie burgers and power salads. But, they are alongside grilled salmon, jagerschnitzel, fried shrimp and chicken piccata. This place has a very interesting and varied menu.

For a special date night or a weekend getaway, there is much to see, do and taste in Clarksville, Tennessee.

2 (of many) Surprising Finds in Clarksville, Tennessee

05/20/2019 By: CCPearsoncomment

Recently, I had a chance to spend a few days in Clarksville, Tennessee and found it to be a completely captivating and enjoyable town. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing some of the places, people and great food I encountered, and I believe you’ll want to check it out for yourself. (Just as a note for driving — if you’re in North Alabama headed up I-65, take I-840 West before you get to Franklin, TN. By doing that, you will avoid the horrible Nashville traffic altogether. A HUGE plus).

LIBERTY PARK

Liberty Park is a multi-use area surrounding a 10-acre fishing lake. You’ll find a playground, picnic pavilions, an event center, a 1.8-mile walking trail, sports fields and a popular restaurant, Liberty Park Grill, but notably, you will find tributes to two famous Clarksville women who excelled in sports.

I highly recommend the strawberry grilled chicken salad. It’s filled with fresh deliciousness.

Wilma Rudolph won three Olympic gold medals in track and field in the 1960 games in Rome, Italy, and was, in fact, the first woman to accomplish such a feat. The story becomes even more remarkable when you learn that she had polio as a child and was told she’d never walk again. While her father worked as a porter on railroad cars and her mother cleaned houses, Wilma’s older siblings dedicated themselves to the task of massaging her weak muscles day after day. The results astonished her doctors.

Also at Liberty Park stands the Pat Head Summitt Legacy Plaza, in honor and memory of the outstanding women’s basketball coach for the University of Tennessee in Knoxville from 1974 until 2012. When she retired she had the most career wins in college basketball history.

HISTORIC COLLINSVILLE PIONEER SETTLEMENT

Historic Collinsville Pioneer Settlement exists solely through the 43 years of hard work, financial backing and determination of JoAnn Weakley and her husband Glenn. JoAnn, who spent most of her professional life as an accountant but started out as a teacher, and Glenn, who was a farmer, believed that children and people of all ages needed a place to understand what life was like in the 1830-1870 period of history. They began the long, arduous process of locating buildings within a small radius of miles that had been constructed during that time and were still standing. In most cases, the logs and boards were numbered, the building was dismantled and taken to the settlement site and then reconstructed as it was originally. They also looked for furniture, implements, household goods, toys and artifacts appropriate to the 1800’s, in order to make the rooms come alive for visitors. Glenn, who was an avid hunter, was able to equip the Irby-Bumpus Wildlife Center on the grounds with examples of animals of Tennessee and around the world, as well as with Native American artifacts.

The settlement opened to the public in 1997 and has since hosted thousands of visitors, particularly school children on field trips. JoAnn and Glenn live in a house that adjoins the settlement and continue to have an active hand in the day-to-day operation, even though they sold the property to Montgomery County in 2018, and it is now maintained by Visit Clarksville. Imagine spending 43 years creating a place of learning and nostalgia for so many.

Historic Collinsville is open on Saturdays and Sundays and other days by appointment for groups of 6 or more.

Mrs. JoAnn Weakley demonstrating one of the hundreds of treasures inside the buildings of Historic Collinsville.

A baby tender, previously owned by Sarah Hale who wrote “Mary Had a Little Lamb.”

This scene reminds me of the verse :Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” Psalm 119:105

Looking Back at my 2018 Travels and Recommendations

01/07/2019 By: CCPearsoncomment

I wouldn’t have believed it if I hadn’t just looked back at my calendar and all of the photos I took. During 2018, I visited 23 destinations, finished construction/decisions/moving involved with our new house and hosted the 11th Annual Cousins Camp. You might think I’d be ready to stay home for awhile, and yes. I truly do savor days for writing, thinking and “just being.” But, those of you who know me best, know that I always LOVE planning. So, happily my calendar is filling up with more amazing places to explore in 2019.

A few of the trips I made in 2018 were purely for fun, but 100% have or will end up as blog posts or articles in other publications. And, 100% of the places I visited can be wholeheartedly recommended for you. The vast majority were in my heartland, a.k.a. The Deep South, but I also got on a few airplanes along the way.

I began the year with Steve on Captiva Island, near Fort Myers, FL, and we ended our travel year seeing New York City at Christmas time. In between, there were fabulous restaurants, hotels, museums, attractions of all kinds and stunning displays of nature. Here are some highlights, pretty much in order as I saw them through the year. Maybe one or more of them will capture your attention and draw you in for a closer look. Please stick with me as we explore more hidden, and not-so-hidden, gems in 2019.

Shellhunting with the shorebirds on tranquil Captiva Island, near Fort Myers, FL in January of 2018.

The iconic tree in Rockefeller Center, New York City, December 2018.

February is a wonderful time to visit the Alabama Gulf Coast. There are many activities and advantage for snowbirds, and of course, the seafood is always fresh and delicious.

A search for the many painted mules in Jasper, AL is a fun pursuit. While there, the shopping and dining options are plentiful.

The Birmingham Civil Rights Museum is an important destination. While in town, try some of the great restaurants — Highlands Bar and Grill, Galley and Garden, Chez Fonfon, etc. — and take the elevator to the top of the Vulcan.

It was so much fun to share a “Gone with the Girls” tour with my daughter and granddaughter. Clay and Henry Counties and their towns of Jonesboro, Locust Grove and McDonough (just a few miles south of Atlanta) are full of great eateries. shops and attractions, among them is the Road to Tara Museum.

Oxford, Mississippi is home to the University of Mississippi, 4 restaurants owned by John Currence and Rowan Oak, home of novelist William Faulkner. What a great town!

In addition to famous recording studios, boutique hotels, the University of North Alabama and good Southern eats, be sure to visit the store and workshop of Natalie Chanin and get a close look at her fabulous textile artistry.

The historic and beautiful Dunhill is a great place to stay in downtown Charlotte. The rooms are comfortable, the location is great, and The Asbury, adjoining restaurant, has award-winning chefs.

Biltmore House and Gardens is a MUST when visiting Asheville, N.C. Also, consider one of the delightful B & Bs in the area.

While visiting the Old 96 District of South Carolina, I highly recommend staying at The Inn on the Square in Greenwood, S.C.

Historic Brattonsville is an informative attraction in the Olde English District of South Carolina, between Charlotte, NC and Columbia, SC.

Canton OH is home to the Pro Football Hall of Fame and SO MUCH MORE!!

Downtown Cleveland is filled with sports venues, hotels and restaurants. A little further out are attractions for history, art and music lovers, and don’t forget the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Columbia, TN has a great historic downtown, the James K. Polk Home and the Blythewood Inn Bed and Breakfast. Be sure to plan a stop when you’re in the Nashville area.

Gadsden, AL has Noccalula Falls within its city limits, plus a wonderful Main Street with shops, restaurants and a very active cultural center.

Corinth, Mississippi is the site of important Civil War history. Here is a poignant fountain outside the Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center.

The Palm Court, ornate restaurant inside the Plaza Hotel in New York City, is where one of America’s most famous Afternoon Tea parties takes place.

Go. See. Eat. Experience. There’s a great, big, fascinating world out there.

(Just scroll back through my blog posts to read about these places in greater detail).

Corinth, Mississippi: 5 Great Reasons to Take a Short Detour off of Highway 72

12/31/2018 By: CCPearson4 Comments

Corinth, Mississippi is SO MUCH MORE than a convenient pit stop between North Alabama and Memphis. Yes, Highway 72 has numerous fast food chains and gas stations, but this fun Southern town has a great deal more to offer if you’ll give it a few hours (or a day or two) of your time. For that matter, you could even make it your actual destination and have a wonderful time.

CIVIL WAR HISTORY

Corinth and its immediate surroundings are steeped in significance related to the Civil War. I strongly recommend a tour of the Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center at 501 W. Linden Street. There you’ll find a modern, 15,000 ft. facility with exhibits, a video about the Battle of Corinth and a very impressive water feature.

The Verandah Curless House, 705 Jackson Street, is Corinth’s only historic house museum and was the headquarters for several generals during the war. The plan for the Confederate attack on Union troops at Shiloh was set into motion at this house.

Corinth Contraband Camp at 902 N. Parkway was the site where newly-freed ex-slaves were given refuge. The American Missionary Association assisted in this effort. Sculptures on the property evoke an emotional response.

Shiloh National Military Park is a short drive away at 1055 Pittsburg Landing Road, in Shiloh, Tennessee. It is a must-see if you have a serious interest in the Civil War. Seeing the terrain and conditions firsthand add to your understanding of who and why the circumstances happened as they did.

At the entrance to the Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center

SLUGBURGERS and Lots of Great Food

Borroum’s Drug Store on the courthouse square at 604 E. Waldron Street, has the distinction of being the oldest drug store in the State of Mississippi still under continuous operation. But, in addition to a chance to see artifacts and relics from Native Americans and the Civil War, you can have a soda or a milkshake at their vintage soda fountain or try their signature Slugburger.

Nickels used to be called “slugs,” and these burgers were originally sold for a nickel. They were made from ground pork and beef that had been stretched with flour (during the Depression) and then deep fried. The accepted way to serve them is with a slice of onion, some pickles and mustard. The price is $1.75 now. Actually everything on the menu is very reasonably priced. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped WAY back in time.

Other restaurants and eateries that I heartily recommend in Corinth include smith. (yes, it begins with a lowercase s), Abe’s Grill (go at breakfast time and try their chocolate gravy), Pizza Grocery (housed in a wholesale grocery warehouse built in 1920), Joe’s Diner (another popular breakfast spot), tamales at Dilworth’s (strictly a drive-through) and Vicari (an upscale restaurant downtown). There are plenty of chains in Corinth, but, as always, I urge you to try the locally-owned places.

Chocolate gravy for breakfast at Joe’s Diner

Slugburger and chips at Borroum’s Drug Store

Entrance to smith. in Corinth – upscale restaurant.

FUN SHOPS

Corinth has a surprising number of unique shops for clothing, gifts, home decor, accessories and more. Some to keep in mind are Carli & Co, Lipchic Boutique, Baxter & Me, Rowan House, Hoochies Gifts and Accessories, Taylor Wick & Co and T. Feazell. I want to return soon and spend more time in each of these.

Two I explored and found a couple of things that “had my name written all over them” were Shirley Dawg’s and Sanctuary. Shirley Dawg’s has clothing for men and women, mostly casual and mostly sports-oriented but also high quality. Sanctuary is a beautiful shop of antiques, collectibles and art. They also have signature-scented candles, one of which is sitting on my desk as I type. The business is housed in a former Episcopal church building constructed around 1904. You’ll enjoy looking for evidences that this was once indeed a sanctuary for worship.

VINTAGE MOTORCYCLES

Possibly the most unexpected place I found in Corinth was the motorcycle museum inside Lake Hill Motors right on Highway 72. It is sometimes called the bike museum and displays many of the ones Dwayne McLemore has been collecting for more than 30 years. You’ll be amazed at the variety.

Visit from 8:00 to 5:00 Monday through Friday or from 8:00-3:00 on Saturday.

One of the fine motorcycles on display at Lake Hill Motors museum.

CORINTH COCA-COLA MUSEUM

Corinth didn’t invent Coca-Cola, of course, but its bottling company in the town has been in existence for more than 100 years. The museum showcases more than 1000 pieces of authentic Coca-Cola memorabilia. Admission is free. The hours are 8:00 to 4:45 Monday through Friday, but you’ll probably want to email museum@corinthcoke.com to schedule a group tour. I suspect you’ll be treated to a refreshing Coke float while you’re there.

Coke float offered to visitors at the Coca-Cola Museum

I hope these photos and suggestions have convinced you to plan a day or two to explore Corinth, Mississippi. It’s a fascinating town, loaded with attractions, food and history.

Christmas at the Falls: Now Happening in Gadsden, Alabama

11/26/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

Every evening from now until December 27 (well, except for Christmas Eve and Christmas night), Noccalula Falls Park, a short drive from historic downtown Gadsden, is hosting its annual Christmas at the Falls event. Steve and I got a behind-the-scenes look at the decorating and preparations that were underway a couple of weeks ago, and we could tell it will be very special indeed.

Pioneer Village at Noccalula Falls

For a $6.00 admission fee, you may walk the paths through the park or ride one of two trains that will be operating. Click here to read about the various attractions you’ll find inside. Several that caught my attention were the various food vendors that you’ll find (think hot chocolate and funnel cakes), the cookie-decorating station, Santa, a petting zoo and the Pioneer Village with buildings that were found, donated and brought in dating back to the early 1800’s. The Falls themselves will be dressed all in lights — a spectacular sight worth the price of admission. We visited right after some heavy rains, so the falls were roaring and magnificent. The park official who guided us said, “Please tell your readers that we have no control over how much water comes over the falls. It is completely dependent on the amount of rainfall. We don’t want anyone to be disappointed (or blame US) if they visit in the summertime and there’s only a trickle.” But, if you visit during this holiday season, my guess is that you’ll be rewarded with lots of water.

Roaring Noccalula Falls, the star of the show.

Insiders shared that the best times to visit are during the week rather than on the weekends in order to avoid huge crowds. But, if you decide to visit on Saturday December 12th, between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m., kids will be delighted to see Ronald McDonald, the Grinch, some Minions and other popular characters roaming around. Otherwise, gates open at 5:00 each evening.

If you want to go to Gadsden earlier in the day, I strongly suggest that you explore the shops and restaurants along Broad Street. Choose among Tre Ragazzi’s Italian Cafe, Jefferson’s, The Choice, Rock n Roll Sushi, Blackstone Pizza or Lizzie’s Barbecue or go around the corner to Locust Street for Sugar Moon. A perk we particularly appreciated was the absence of parking meters. Sometimes the little things can make a huge difference.

Beautifully-decorated store on Broad Stree.

A little further out of town, Top of the River serves up some mighty fine cornbread, slaw, onions and greens, along with catfish and shrimp. Or, what about sharing the World’s Largest Seafood Platter? Trust me. It’s enough for several hungry eaters.

Cornbread, slaw and onions at Top of the River.

Another event to consider is happening on December 7th. The large Christmas tree will be lighted in downtown — Santa will do the honors — followed by the Coosa Boat Parade which can be viewed from the 759 bridge to City Hall. Also, be sure to treat yourself to a visit to the Cultural Arts Center to look at the Christmas trees decorated by area school children. Each one features a different First Lady of the United States, and they are extremely well-done.

Christmas trees at the Cultural Arts Center

Oh, and one other suggestion before I close. Sean Dietrich, author of the “Sean of the South” blog and numerous books, will be at the Mary G Harden Center for Cultural Arts on Broad Street on Friday night, January 18, 2019, and tickets are still available. Click here for more information. A pair of those tickets will be in Steve’s Christmas stocking this year, and I’m counting on being his date. 🙂

Have fun exploring Gadsden!

Five Reasons Why Public Art Matters

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