3 Fun Reasons to Spend a Few Hours in South Pittsburg, Tennessee

11/12/2018 By: CCPearson2 Comments

South Pittsburg, Tennessee is only about a 2-hour drive from Hartselle, AL and is an easy destination to reach via Highway 72 East. Coming from other directions, you can find it just to the west of Chattanooga. If you have time, I’d like to suggest 3 reasons why you might want to make a special stop.

LODGE CAST IRON FACTORY STORE

Any good cook worth her apron knows and loves her black skillets, especially when it’s time to make cornbread. We’ve been carefully taught not to put them in the dishwasher or any kind of soapy water, for that matter, but instead to keep them well-seasoned. If you’re lucky, you have cast iron pieces in all sizes and are still healthy enough to wrestle these heavy pans. They are not for those who only pass through the kitchen to microwave a frozen dinner. 🙂

South Pittsburg is the headquarters for Lodge manufacturing and has been in business since 1896. Yes, you can order pieces of Lodge Cast Iron online, but the beauty of the factory store in South Pittsburg is 1) you get to see and feel many products other than the basics, 2) you can ask the knowledgeable clerks all kinds of questions about their use, 3) you can find factory seconds that are slightly blemished but cook the very same way and are priced lower, and 4) you can see the other temptations lurking on the shelves. In my case, I found a couple of grill pans for my gas cooktop, special tools, popcorn oil and Mexican vanilla, just in time for holiday baking.

The South Pittsburg store is only a block off of Hwy. 72 at 220 East 3rd Street, and it is open Monday-Saturday from 8:00-6:00 and on Sunday from 9:00 to 5:00.

STEVARINO’S ITALIAN EATERY AND PUB

After browsing all of the cookware at Lodge, you’ll work up an appetite. Keep going straight up the East 3rd Street, and you’ll see Stevarino’s on the corner. Find a parking place on the street in front or alongside. Stevarino’s is closed on Sundays but open for lunch and dinner the other 6 days a week.

Be sure to start your meal with an order of Beach Bread. According to the owner, he first tried a similar concoction when he was at the beach and decided to make his own version when he got back home. A fresh baguette is sliced open and stuffed with bleu cheese, fresh tomatoes and bacon, then covered with mozzarella cheese, toasted and served with marinara sauce. So, so good.

Beach Bread at Stevarino’s.

Steve and I also shared their Mediterranean chicken with green beans and pasta. It was very satisfying. Beware that the pepperoncini peppers have quite a kick. 🙂

Mediterranean Chicken at Stevarino’s.

Don’t worry. There are plenty of pizza, pasta dishes and other choices on the menu.

The atmosphere was relaxed, and the service was attentive. You could make your grocery list while you wait, if you want, since crayons are provided to use with the white butcher paper covering the tables.

It made sense that Alabama, Tennessee and Georgia were represented in the wall decor. After all, South Pittsburg sits right where those three states converge. However, when I mentioned to the server that I kept looking for some sign of Auburn, he said, “You won’t get much love for Auburn in South Pittsburg. You’ll have to drive back into Alabama for that.” Oh well. At least, he was honest. 🙂

RUSSELL CAVE NATIONAL MONUMENT

Just a few miles west of South Pittsburg, look for signs pointing to Russell Cave National Monument. If you’re not in a hurry, this detour is well worth your time. Russell Cave is not a place you walk THROUGH, instead you walk TO it. It is actually an archaeological site where more than 100,000 Native American artifacts were excavated, representing four separate culture time period. Interesting displays are in the welcome center, and a 7-minute film can be shown if you have time.

The walk to the cave opening was my favorite part. Exquisitely peaceful, an easy trail, and nature galore.

Pathway toward Russell Cave.

Opening to Russell Cave.

Fall at Russell Cave.

There is no admission charge. Always a plus.

So now you have my suggestions if you decide to make a day trip to South Pittsburg. Have fun!

3 More Highlights to Enjoy in Columbia, Tennessee

10/01/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

Last Monday I shared a post about Blythewood Inn, a wonderful B & B in Columbia, TN.

I’m writing today’s post in plenty of time for you to make your plans to visit Columbia, TN (a.k.a. “Muletown”) this coming Friday night, October 5th, for its monthly First Friday event. Go early to take advantage of the Polk Home and Rippavilla or plan another day soon when the atmosphere will be more relaxed.

Columbia is “Muletown” and here is its queen.

The James K. Polk Home, at 301 W. 7th Street, is historically significant to our knowledge and understanding of the lives and contributions of Presidents of the United States. James K Polk was a short, workaholic who only served one term, but more than 800,000 square miles were added to our territory during those four years. Several buildings who were owned by his family are located on the block, and visitors are treated to a video, a museum, a gift shop and an escorted, narrated tour.

2. Historic Courthouse Square — Take time to find the great murals scattered around town. They are a lot of fun, several adding to the town’s nickname of “Muletown.” Parking is free. If you can’t find a spot right on the square, there are a couple of lots a block away.

Independent bookstores are rare finds in today’s world. Duck River Books has rare books, first editions, walls adorned with autographs of important literary figures, and fun gift items. It is certainly worth a visit.

Square Market Cafe is one of the great eating choices on the square. I loved sitting in one of the outdoor tables, eating freshly prepared food and watching the world go by. After a nice stroll, it was fun to find Hattie Jane’s Creamery and devour one of its cool, sweet treats. You can also choose from a Mexican place, Southern Tre Steakhouse and Puckett’s. There is even a pie shop where you can stop and enjoy a slice on the spot or take one home for supper.

A great time to take in the vibe of Columbia is on First Fridays. You’ll find plenty of live musicians and other vendors, plus most of the stores happily extend their opening hours.

3. Rippavilla Plantation in very nearby Spring Hill was significant in Civil War history. I highly recommend a tour to learn what role it played in that horrible conflict between Americans. Special events are held on the grounds throughout the year, so be sure to check their website. While you’re there, save time to peruse the Gift Shop, too. The GPS address is 5700 Main Street in Spring Hill.

For a fuller article about Columbia, TN, check out the story published last week in the Senior Scene Magazine published by the Athens News-Courier. Here’s the link. My story is on pages 24-25.

Ivy Green: Birthplace of Helen Keller in Tuscumbia, Alabama

08/13/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” Helen Keller

Have you found Ivy Green yet? Did you go on an elementary class field trip when you were a child? Have you had visitors from other states and wondered how to entertain them for a few hours? Would you merely like to be REinspired by the remarkable story of Helen Keller and her devoted teacher Anne Sullivan?

Portrait of Helen as a young woman.

Ivy Green at 300 North Commons West in Tuscumbia, AL is a place where we Alabamians can take a lot of pride. The grounds, buildings, furnishings and artifacts are beautifully-maintained. Tour guides are well-trained, and the admission price is very affordable. Adults are $6.00, and children are $3.00, but Senior Adults, AAA members and members of the military pay only $5.00. It is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and is only closed for major holidays.

View of the main house from the entrance.

Originally built as a bridal suite for Captain Arthur Keller and his young wife Kate (Helen’s parents), it became a school house for Helen and her teacher Anne Sullivan.

“The Miracle Worker” is a well-known movie and play based on the story of Helen and her teacher Ms. Sullivan. That same play is actually performed on the grounds of Ivy Green every summer on Friday and Saturday evenings at 8:00 p.m. throughout the month of June until mid-July. 2019 dates will be June 7 – July 13. Go ahead and mark it down somewhere. It has been named “A Top 20 Event in the Southeast” and is the Official Outdoor Drama of the State of Alabama. The annual Helen Keller Festival is held every year during the last weekend in June.

Besides the main family home, built in 1820, visitors can also see the cottage, the kitchen building, the pump where Helen first learned and understood the word “water,” and ice house, the gardens, the Lion’s International Memorial Garden and the gazebo. The museum inside the main home is filled with fascinating memorabilia of Helen’s life. One of the most impressive areas to me was in the Lion’s Garden where a video plays in a loop with actual footage of a speech made by Helen. You can see and hear this woman — who learned how to speak although she was blind and deaf from the age of 19 months.

Capable guide leads a tour through the main house.

Clothing worn by Helen and her mother.

Helen was born June 27, 1880 and died just a few weeks shy of her 88th birthday on June 1, 1968. She wrote 12 books and numerous articles during her lifetime and received countless awards. Her story and these grounds surrounding Ivy Green — on the National Register of Historic Sites since 1954 — are highly-recommended ways to ignite meaningful conversations with children and grandchildren. Steve and I were so impressed with the deep thoughts our grands expressed after hearing about Helen and seeing her birthplace.

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.” Helen Keller

P.S. No doubt, you will want to have breakfast, lunch or dinner when you’re in Tuscumbia touring Ivy Green. If so, consider a couple of restaurants I’ve written about in past blog posts. Here you will read about Big Bad Breakfast and Ray’s at the Bank. And here you will read about the cafe at Alabama Chanin.

Cousins Camp 2018’s Theme: NEW THINGS

08/06/2018 By: CCPearson4 Comments

It has become a Cousins Camp tradition that the grandchildren don’t learn the theme of the year’s camp until they arrive on the first day. From the day they leave each year until the time they arrive the next year, we are constantly asked to give hints about the theme. We rarely comply. Past themes have included: exotic animals, underwater creatures, around the world, Hawaii, sports and music. This year the theme was very logical to Steve and me — although the grands had not quite put it together. After all, we had just moved into a new house (exactly 2 weeks before camp began!!!!!), we built a new pool, and everyone would be sleeping in a different place than they ever had before. The trick was to figure out NEW THINGS in the way of foods and activities — something of a challenge since we’d already gone through ten previous camps. Here are many of the things we did that were new:

FOODS

Thank you, Pinterest and fellow grandmommas, for helping me with these suggestions. Make-Your-Own Texas Toast Pizzas were a big hit, as were S’Mores using candles, Homemade Pop Tarts (pie crusts filled with jam, Nutella or cinnamon and sugar) and Homemade Donuts (using biscuit dough). Another recipe we tried was Ice Cream in a Bag. The taste was delicious, but cleaning up the mess made me think that store-bought ice cream would be the saner choice for the future.

CRAFTS

Once again, Pinterest came to the rescue. The grands loved painting canvases and wooden initials during one session and decorating with buttons and sequins in the next session. When my brother’s two grandchildren joined us for most of a day, we had boards (cut from lumber left in building the new house), short nails, hammers and 14 different colors of yarn. Each child chose a design, drew it on the board, hammered nails to make an outline, then strung yarn to fill in the design. I wish we’d had a hammer for each child (we only had 6 for 13 children), and I wish I’d taken some Tylenol before the hammering began, but, oh well, you live and learn. The results of both craft projects were satisfactory and are probably hanging on various bedroom walls in Georgia, Tennessee and Alabama.

Button crafts.

RESTAURANTS

Our general way of handling meals for so many people for a week is to have breakfast at home — with Granddaddy as Top Chef. We have either lunch or dinner at home, but the other meal is at a restaurant. Group favorites include Cracker Barrel, McDonald’s, Chick-Fil-A, and pretty much any Mexican or Chinese restaurant. This year we allowed them to sample a completely different cuisine — Ethiopian. The Ghion Cultural Hall is in the Pizitz Food Hall in downtown Birmingham. Our sweet Birti, who was born in Ethiopia, was THRILLED at our choice. She particularly loves the bread-type food called injeera, but she was clearly pleased with everything offered on the buffet the day we visited. Happily, the rest of the grands were good sports and found things they could enjoy also. It turned out to be our most expensive meal of the week, so we might not go again with so many, but I’m still very glad we let the cousins give it a try.

One more thing — 99-cent Taco Nights at 2 of the Mexican restaurants in Hartselle were life- and budget-savers. Woohoo! Thank you, Las Vias and Don Alejo. I predict this will become a Cousins Camp tradition. Please don’t stop.

Granddaddy supervising breakfast.

Ghion Cultural Hall – Ethiopian Restaurant in Birmingham

ACTIVITIES

For about 5 years now, we have taken the kids bowling at River City Lanes in Decatur, and we’ve played some rounds at Funland Putt-Putt, also in Decatur. We’ve honed our skills at several different art studios and created paintings, generally related to our theme for the week. In past years, we’ve visited Cathedral Caverns, Harmony Park Safari, Birmingham Zoo, Nashville Shores, Jesse Owens Museum, EarlyWorks Museum, Alabama Music Hall of Fame and the Space and Rocket Center — among other places. But, what could we do this year that was NEW??

Golden Flake Potato Chip Factory in Birmingham — This is actually a very popular place for tours, and we were lucky to find a time in their schedule. The rules are pretty strict — close-toed shoes, no photos, must wear a hairnet, etc — but the tour is free, and it only lasts about 30-40 minutes. At the end of the tour, you walk away with 3 bags of chips in your hairnet. Win-win!

Golden Flake Factory in Birmingham

Kelly Ingram Park across from the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute — The Institute has an entry fee, but you can walk through the park and see the outside of 16th Avenue Baptist Church for free. The park has many explanatory signs and sculptures scattered throughout. It makes a deep impression. Metered parking spaces surround the park.

Kelly Ingram Park across from the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Vulcan Park and Museum in Birmingham — Any time 13 people can get in an attraction for less than $50, I consider that to be reasonably-priced. At the Vulcan, you can walk around the grounds, tour the museum and gift shop, ride the elevator to the top for amazing views of the city, and have a picnic or snack at the shaded tables. I took bottled waters and snacks that hit the spot after checking out the surroundings. It was fun to tell the kids about how the Vulcan used to have a torch that was either green or red based on traffic fatalities and to explain about the iron/steel connection leading to naming “The Game” the Iron Bowl.

Vulcan Park and Museum

Top Golf in Huntsville — This was one of our splurges for our week — about $150 for an hour for 12 players — but the place is SO NICE. I told Steve I hope he’ll take me back for a date sometime. Before noon is the cheapest time to go, and it’s great that the computers handle all the scoring. All you have to do is manage to get that ball off the tee and out onto one of the target areas. Not as easy as you might think. Clubs are provided, even clubs for kids. This was a hit with almost all of the kids.

UpSurge in Decatur — Another splurge on our itinerary, UpSurge is an indoor trampoline park in Decatur behind Wiley Sporting Goods. The cost was $167 for an hour for 11 kids, but that included about $40 worth of special socks that are required — something we won’t have to purchase the next time. It was clean, well-supervised, and surprisingly uncrowded. The kids got a lot of exercise and NO ONE GOT HURT. Hallelujah! Waivers are required, so I had the Mommas fill those out on-line and submit them ahead of time (without spilling the beans to the kids).

Ivy Green, Helen Keller Birthplace, in Tuscumbia — Ivy Green, like the Vulcan Park, was less than $50 for 13 people. The tour was very well-done, and the displays, grounds, furnishings are well-preserved. It is a place and a story that makes you proud that Helen Keller and Annie Sullivan are associated with Alabama. It takes about an hour to take advantage of this historic facility. I recommend it.

Ivy Green at the famous water pump.

This year’s group of grands ranged in age from 5 to 17. All of them appeared to enjoy at least some aspects of each of these attractions. Now, what in the WORLD will we find next year?

P.S. If you’re interested in the nitty-gritty details of hosting your own Cousins Camp, look for the book Steve and I are in the process of writing to be published in the coming year.

Highlands Bar and Grill: Excellence in Birmingham, Alabama (Revisited)

07/16/2018 By: CCPearson2 Comments

(I am declaring a one-month sabbatical from blogging for July. The two reasons? 1) We’re FINALLY moving into our new house, and I desperately need to “make it into a home,” with all of the organizing, picture-hanging, accessorizing that entails. 2) The 11th Annual Pearson Cousins Camp will be held July 22-28. That week requires complete focus, attention and meticulous planning. So, for this month, we will revisit some of my favorite posts from the past three years that I have been blogging here at ThereGoesConnie.com).

Highlands Bar and Grill and their wonderful Pastry Chef Dolester Miles won the James Beard awards 2018 for Outstanding Restaurant and Outstanding Pastry Chef!!!!! Amazing accomplishment for Frank Stitt and his team, and it’s right here in Alabama. Reason to be proud.

Highlands Bar and Grill: A Sublime Birthday Dinner in Birmingham

07/04/2016 BY: CCPEARSONCOMMENT

Do not, I repeat, do NOT wait as long as I did to have dinner at Highlands Bar and Grill in Birmingham. It. Is. Wonderful.

Frank Stitt opened his restaurant in what was then a very unlikely location in 1982 using funds from his mother who mortgaged her house because she believed that her son had the skills and the opportunity to be successful. Banks weren’t as confident, but Stitt proved them wrong. Boy, did he prove them wrong!

Stitt is an award-winning chef who has generously mentored other chefs who are making their culinary marks on the world. But, in addition to outstanding food, his restaurants have an unparalleled level of attention to detail and impeccable service.

Steve and I were in Birmingham for a few days recently to celebrate my birthday and made reservations for dinner at Highlands. Conveniently, it was located directly behind the Hassinger Daniels Mansion B & B where we were staying, so we could walk. But, there is an adjacent parking lot if you are staying somewhere else or just driving in for dinner.

We had an amazing time from the moment we walked in the door. Goren Avery, a 33-year wait staff veteran at Highlands, is a total delight. He knows the menu thoroughly, and furthermore, he understands PEOPLE.

Highlands is bustling and full of energy, but we never felt rushed in any way. We savored each course slowly and deliberately. Such delicious food!!!

Highlands even has an award-winning pastry chef, Dolester Miles. I can understand completely why some diners make reservations to come just for her over-the-top desserts.

Plan a true treat for yourself soon. The decor, the atmosphere, the staff, the drink menu (we chose a couple off of their list of Temperance Drinks, of course), the appetizers, the entrees, and the desserts ALL rate an A+ in my gradebook. Peruse the website and read all of the stories that have been published about it. Include my recent review for MilesGeek.com when you make your reservation. Enjoy!

So, this original review was posted in 2016, but we returned for an anniversary dinner in March of 2018. Here are some photos from our outstanding dinner that night — quail, venison and Aurora Tart. Oh my!

Manchester Farms Quail for an appetizer.

Grilled venison with sweet potato hash and collards for an entree.

Beautiful caramel custard tart, with chantilly cream and candied hazelnuts created by award-winning pastry chef, Dolester Miles.

Interior of Highlands with gleaming white tablecloths and uniformed servers.

P.S. If you are visiting Birmingham for a few days, Frank Stitt has added 3 more restaurants in the same area of Historic Five Points — Bottega, Bottega Cafe, and Chez Fon Fon. Each has its own distinctive menu and emphasis.

Florence, Alabama Native, Natalie Chanin: Her Factory and Her Cafe

05/21/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

“A Feather’s Not a Bird” by Rosanne Cash begins with these lyrics:

I’m going down to Florence, gonna wear a pretty dress
I’ll sit atop the magic wall with the voices in my head
Then we’ll drive on through to Memphis, past the strongest shoals
Then on to Arkansas just to touch the gumbo soul

A feather’s not a bird
The rain is not the sea
A stone is not a mountain
But a river runs through me

There’s never any highway when you’re looking for the past
The land becomes a memory and it happens way too fast
The money’s all in Nashville but the light’s inside my head
So I’m going down to Florence just to learn to love the thread

A feather’s not a bird
The rain is not the sea
A stone is not a mountain
But a river runs through me

Those of us who are natives of North Alabama, know where Florence, Alabama is, and we certainly know which river she’s singing about — the Tennessee, of course! We might even be familiar with “the magic wall” Rosanne Cash mentions in the second line. That refers to the mile-long stone wall monument Tom Hendrix built in honor of his great, great grandmother’s journey back from Oklahoma after being carried from her homeland during the Trail of Tears. And, “the voices in my head” suggest the name the Yuchi tribe gave to the Tennessee River — “the river that sings.”

But, what about “wearing a pretty dress” and “learning to love the thread?”

That’s where Natalie Chanin comes into the song. Cash and Chanin spent time sightseeing and sewing together during a trip Cash made in 2013 to explore some of her daddy’s roots (Johnny Cash). While traveling the Natchez Trace, Cash was led naturally to Alabama. The trip inspired Cash to the point that she named her 2014 album “The River and the Thread” and wore a Natalie Chanin coat when she accepted three Grammy awards that year.

I believe you, too, will be inspired when you make a visit to Ms. Chanin’s factory, store and cafe in Florence. Natalie Chanin spent 20 years as a designer and stylist in New York and Europe before being drawn back to her hometown and bringing her creative talents with her. Alabama Chanin, 462 Lane Drive in Florence, is housed in a former t-shirt factory.

Entrance to Alabama Chanin in Florence, AL.

Warehouse-type store.

The Factory Store is open from 10:00 to 5:00 Monday through Friday and from 10:00 to 3:00 on Saturday. Items for sale include both handsewn and factory-made fashions, as well as home goods and accessories from local artisans. Ms. Chanin’s designs are extremely high-end, and when you look closely and see the intricacy of the work, you will better appreciate the price tags.

Alabama Chanin also opens the factory to sewing groups on the first and third Tuesdays of each month for those who want to enjoy improving their skills while socializing with others. DIY kits and stencil templates are for sale for beginners and advanced seamstresses. Ms. Chanin believes strongly in passing down sewing arts and offers a variety of classes that can be found on the website.

Tours of the Factory are hosted at 2:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. The tours are free and last about 30 minutes. It is extremely interesting to learn about the behind-the-scenes process for creating the elaborate pieces produced by Chanin and her team.

Factory Cafe is a popular place for lunch with its wide expanse of tables, natural light, and fresh, delicious menu. Diners order at the counter, and then dishes are brought to the table. The day I visited, Natalie herself was serving guests. I SO wanted to stop her long enough for a photo but just couldn’t convince myself it was the right thing to do. She’s quite striking in her appearance and appears very humble in spite of her amazing success and worldwide recognition.

At the counter of the Factory Cafe.

I strongly urge you to check out this fascinating gem in Florence, AL. It might just cause you to dust off your long-unused sewing machine.

Two New Eateries in The Shoals

05/07/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

Florence, Muscle Shoals, Tuscumbia and Sheffield — the quartet of towns referred to as “The Shoals” — give us all kinds of reasons to visit for a day or a weekend. Tours of recording studios are must-dos because of all the remarkable music that has been created in those places. Lots of neat stores for shopping lure us and our credit cards. Followers of athletic and other endeavors at the University of North Alabama don their purple and gold and hope for a glimpse of Leo III and Una in their world-class lion habitat on campus. And Florence also hosts First Fridays every month from March to December with family-friendly art, music, shopping and entertainment with free admission.

It’s a given that you will want to plan good places to eat when you visit The Shoals, and two new ones really caught my attention recently. I highly recommend both of them to you.

BIG BAD BREAKFAST

Perhaps you’ve heard of John Currence, James Beard Award recipient of Best Chef: South in 2009? He has put Oxford, Mississippi on the map as a foodie destination with his FOUR restaurants in the town. Now he’s in the process of expanding the locations of one of them — Big Bad Breakfast — and a Florence location opened just a few weeks ago. At 315 North Court Street, this BBB is on the ground floor of the Stricklin Building which will soon house the Stricklin Boutique Hotel and the Boiler Room. It is open 7 days a week from 7:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Imagine a breakfast featuring a signature blend of coffee from Royal Cup, bacon or sausage from a farm in Eva and a side order of grits grown in Wilsonville, AL. Yes, there’s more — so much more.

Big Bad Breakfast in Florence, AL, bottom floor of The Stricklin Hotel.

Cathead biscuits are legendary as well as the variety of skillets. BBB serves up an array of omelets, pancakes, waffles and even health-conscious options. I chose chicken and waffles when I visited. The chicken was SO tender, and the waffle was light and fluffy. Perfection! Oh, and all the jams are housemade. No Smuckers allowed.

If you’re not a “morning person,” a full lunch menu is also available with burgers, sandwiches, salads, quesadillas and even shrimp and grits.

I really admired the furniture made from an Amish community in Summertown, Tennessee. Go and check it out.

Interior of Big Bad Breakfast in Florence with Amish furniture.

RAY’S AT THE BANK

Ray’s at the Bank, 1411 Huntsville Road in Florence, is, as the name implies, housed in a former bank building. The inside is very “vintage” with exposed brick walls, but the atmosphere is elegant. Well, actually it’s fairly casual at lunch but turns more upscale for dinner. My sources tell me that in the evenings they serve a “filet you can cut with a spoon” and that the prime rib is fabulous. I always like restaurants with white tablecloths.

Ray’s at the Bank exterior

Ray’s at the Bank interior with exposed bricks and white tablecloths

Ray’s is only about two years old. The owners formerly operated Dish in downtown Florence but chose to close Dish and open in this location.

During a recent lunch, I chose the chicken salad and fruit plate while my friend had the day’s soup special — chili. We could have ordered burgers, sandwiches, other salads or even barbecue cooked on their hand-crafted smoker. Everything was delicious, and I hope to return soon for a dinner date.

Chicken Salad and Fruit Plate at Ray’s.

Tasty chili and grilled cheese at Ray’s.

Take note that the dinner menu changes nightly, but it can be found on the Ray’s Facebook page.

Visit Jasper AL – It’s All Jazzed Up!

03/19/2018 By: CCPearson4 Comments

If you’re like me, you’ve seen the sign pointing toward Jasper every time you’ve driven I-65 between the North Alabama state line and Birmingham. I knew it was there, but I didn’t know what treasures it held that would make me want to detour off of the interstate or, even more, to take Exit 299 just for the sake of visiting Jasper. Now I know.

A few short years ago, the business side of downtown Jasper was on the verge of distinction. Big box stores were luring shoppers to the outskirts of town, and storefront after storefront was abandoned and becoming dilapidated. What sounded hopeless to some was exactly the kind of situation Main Street Alabama loves to find. That organization recognized that Jasper had the very ingredients it needed to be restored, revitalized and promoted — history, architecture, established businesses and dedicated townspeople. In 2015, Jasper became a recognized community of Main Street Alabama. To implement Jasper Main Street, city leaders chose a team led by Mike Putman, a slogan of “Flourish With Us!”and the hard but rewarding work of bringing Jasper back to life began.

Posing with Mike Putman, head of Jasper Main Street.

With a goal of putting a thriving business in every storefront in the Main Street district (consisting of 18th, 19th and 20th Streets), the progress to this point is remarkable. You can easily spend a whole day shopping, eating, finding art and exploring Jasper’s unique history.

EAT

As of right now, there are six eateries within a couple of blocks of each other. Depending on your dietary preferences, you can choose Mexican (Los Reyes Grill), Italian (Johnny Brusco’s), Japanese (Rock n Roll Sushi), Southern (Danny’s Downtown Barbecue) and a broader range (Black Rock Bistro and Warehouse 3Nineteen).

Fabulous fried green tomatoes at Black Rock Bistro.

Los Reyes Grill for Mexican.

Johnny Brusco’s for pizza and Italian dishes.

Danny’s Downtown Barbecue.

SHOP

I only had time to check out a few shops, but I will definitely reserve time soon to go back and peruse all of the offerings in each store soon. So much appealing and beautiful merchandise. Maybe I should leave Steve home next time for a less hurried chance to look. (Sorry, hon). Be sure to include Bernard’s Store for Men, Shmic and Boo’s, Bare Bones Cargo, Elizabeth Garner Interiors, Lavish, Young Jewelers and White Tulip Antiques, but I’m sure others will be added soon.

Lavish Boutique. A Coffee Bar is adjacent.

A glimpse of the merchandise in Shmic and Boo’s. Let the lovely storeowners explain the quirky name.

A peek inside Bare Bones Cargo.

ART

Take time to notice the interesting murals that have been painted throughout the downtown area. Especially notice the one showing Jasper’s namesake in action.

One of several painted murals in the Main Street district. No, this is not Jasper’s namesake, but he does represent a part of Jasper’s history.

If you take children or grandchildren with you, a scavenger hunt looking for all of the painted mules would be fun. A Mule Trail map is available at the Arts Alliance office in the basement of the First Bank building. Mules are the chosen symbol of Jasper in reference to their role during the town’s mining days.

One of about 50 painted mules. This one is in front of the Walker County Courthouse.

HISTORY

How many towns do you know of the size of Jasper (population approximately 14,300) that can boast of visits by Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Harry S. Truman and notable citizens born in Jasper, such as Tallulah Bankhead, her father William Brockman Bankhead (former Speaker of the House in Washington, DC), George “Goober” Lindsey and Polly Holliday. Visit the sanctuary of First United Methodist Church where Roosevelt attended William B. Bankhead’s funeral and the Bankhead House and Heritage Center. In the church, you will see magnificent stained glass, and at the Heritage Center, you’ll learn about many famous people with Walker County connections.

Bankhead House and Heritage Center.

Stained glass in the First United Methodist Church.

Exterior of the First United Methodist Church, once visited by Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Harry S. Truman.

Two yearly events might interest you. The Tallulah Bankhead Tribute Weekend on June 9 and the Foothills Festival on September 8-9. Make a note of those or click on the links above that sound appealing and plan a trip very soon.

And, by the way, if you’re from a small town, you might find yourself asking: What symbol could we use to represent our town? How can we bring more businesses back to Main Street? Who are some notable people who were born in our town? How can we incorporate art and repurpose and refurbish historic buildings? Who would be good leaders to promote our town? At least, those were some of the questions I asked myself.

P.S. Athens folks, check out my article in the March 2018 Senior Scene Magazine for more details and photos. It’s on pages 24-25.

Tiny Hogansville, GA Wants You to Visit

01/29/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

Tiny Hogansville, GA boasts a population of slightly more than 3000 people but has been called “the prettiest little city in Georgia.” If you are in LaGrange, West Point, Newnan, Columbus, GA or Auburn, Phenix City, AL — in other words, the west Georgia/east Alabama part of the southeast, I believe you’ll enjoy taking a detour and finding downtown Hogansville. After all, it’s only 3 miles off the interstate.

If you schedule a visit for the 3rd Saturday in October, you’ll be among thousands of visitors to the annual Hummingbird Festival, featuring food and crafts vendors, an art contest and a dog parade. I think the tiny, but very industrious, hummingbird, is a very appropriate symbol for Hogansville. Fiberglass hummingbirds, painted by local artists and having a wingspan of three feet, dot the landscape at major points of interest around the town and form what is becoming a fun Hummingbird Trail as visitors try to find all of them. The birds are painted in a theme that matches their location.

Unique antique shops, bookstores and boutiques line Main Street heading toward the railroad track, and a train depot dating back 110 years anchors the whole shopping district with Station Coffeehouse, Great Southern Pub (for burgers, fish/chips, chicken/waffles, etc.) and a large venue space for Market Days, live entertainment and even weddings. Stop into Born Again Antiques. It’s almost like a museum with lots of repurposed furniture. Karvelas Pizza Company is moving to downtown soon. It’s one of those places where you can watch while the dough spins.

Born Again Antiques

I recently had a heavenly cup of hot chocolate and a delicious breakfast sandwich at Station Coffeehouse.

Station CoffeeHouse

Afterwards, I wandered the town with my camera enjoying the painted murals, the shops and the search for Hogansville’s symbols. Families will enjoy the Tower Walking Trail and outdoor classroom, in addition to reading about the painted hummingbirds.

I also spotted a pretty B & B — Hogan House at Rose Hill Bed and Breakfast — a place I’d love to check out further during a future visit.

Hogan House B & B

I applaud the leaders of Hogansville for their efforts to put this remarkable town in the spotlight.

Belle Chevre in Elkmont, AL – Where Goat Milk Becomes Amazing

10/16/2017 By: CCPearsoncomment

We’d seen the billboards along I-65. We saw some of the products in the cheese case of several grocery stores. But, even though it was a short drive away, we had never gone to Elkmont, AL to really check it out. Then a Groupon popped up. Who can resist a good Groupon? Finally, we had a free weekend to use it, and we’re so glad we did.

Belle Chevre Cheese Shop and Tasting Room is located at 18849 Upper East Hampton Road in Elkmont. It is open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 to 3:00 and on Saturday from 10:00 to 5:00. The sandwich board boasts some mouthwatering choices for lunch, plus there are several flavors of ice cream and Belle Chevre’s scrumptious lemon cheesecake. You can buy goat-themed merchandise, in addition to the breakfast and artisan cheeses. Breakfast offerings are: honey, cinnamon, coffee and fig. And, artisan choices include: Greek kiss, pimento, Southern belle and original.

Storefront of the cheese shop and tasting room.

Goat-themed merchandise.

Inside the sandwich shop.

Sandwich menu board.

Behind the back parking lot, you’ll find a much larger quonset-hut style building which is the actual cheese making plant. Tours are only given two days a week — at 10:00 and 1:00 on Friday and at 11:00, 1:00 and 3:00 on Saturday.

Exterior of main production and office building.

Tours have 4 main components. First, you get to meet some of the well-tended, milk-producing goats. In reality, the curds to produce about 2000 pounds of cheese each week come from a farm in North Carolina with 900 goats that are milked twice a day. Consider the logistics and the commitment of such a farm!!

Nubian and Nigerian pygmie goats.

The source of the goat cheese.

Second, visitors are escorted back inside to watch a short film called “Tasia and The Cheese Revolution.” This is where you get an overview of the history of Belle Chevre (which means “beautiful goat” or “beautiful goat cheese”). Tasia (pronounced “tuh-shee-uh”) Malakasis is the present owner and president. She is a native of Huntsville, AL with blood ties to Greece. After she finished school, she headed off to New York to seek her fortune in a high-tech career but was always drawn to food and cooking. One day she walked into a Dean & Deluca store in Manhattan and noticed a cheese made in Elkmont, AL. That intrigued her, because she was surprised a product in that store came from such a small town near Huntsville. She tasted the cheese, fell in love with it and started trying to find out how she could be involved in the company. After quitting her New York job, moving back to Alabama and working for free for six months, she bought Belle Chevre. At that time, Belle Chevre goat cheese was well-known OUTSIDE of Alabama. Ms. Malakasis began a marketing strategy to make it better known in North Alabama and surrounding areas. Judging from the demand for so much cheese each week, it is obvious that she has become a huge success.

In the third part of the tour, you will look through glass partitions into the production room and see some of the processes that take place.

The production room.

And, finally, you will get to the delicious climax. Everyone on the tour will taste at least 8 different cheese varieties, plus the cheesecake. Then, each person gets to choose a cheese container to take home. Warning: it will be very hard to stick to only one!

Belle Chevre’s original spread.

A sample of pimento goat cheese.

Preparing a sample of Greek kiss.

A cute taster at Belle Chevre.

The Belle Chevre website has quite a few recipes for using the various goat cheeses. If you enjoy cookbooks as much as I do, you might want to order the cookbook written by Ms. Malakasis called Tasia’s Table.

It is available through the website or on Amazon.

You will need to call and make a reservation if you want to take the tour — 256-732-4801. Steve and I enjoyed it a lot. It was informative and SO tasty. 🙂

This post contains an affiliate link to Amazon.

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