Bless the fleet at Darien’s annual festival

Darien, Ga., the state’s second city, is set to celebrate the annual “Blessing of the Fleet,” a celebration of the city’s shrimping industry.

“What makes this festival so great is that we pay tribute to the fishing industry,” McIntosh County Chamber of Commerce President Wally Orrel said, according to the Georgia Times-Union. “There are decades of tradition, and this year, the theme is, ‘Still Shrimping After All of These Years.’”

The city of Darien was founded in January 1736. For years, the city served as a major lumber port, but after that business dried up, the city became a major fishing port.

This year’s “Blessing of the Fleet” is scheduled for Friday-Sunday.

U.S. Embassy: Avoid Roppongi because of ‘drink-spiking incidents’

The U.S. Embassy in Tokyo is urging Americans to avoid bars in the city's Roppongi district following an uptick in “drink-spiking incidents.”

“The number of reports of U.S. citizens being drugged in bars has increased significantly in recent weeks,” the Embassy said in a statement. “Typically, the victim unknowingly drinks a beverage that has been secretly mixed with a drug that renders the victim unconscious for several hours, during which time large sums of money are charged to the victim’s credit card or the card is stolen outright. Victims sometimes regain consciousness in the bar or club, while at other times the victim awakens on the street.”

The Roppongi district is well-known for its bars and is a popular destination for Western travelers.

“Because this type of crime is already widespread in Roppongi bars and is on the rise, the U.S. Embassy has recommended that members of the embassy community avoid frequenting drinking establishments in this area. American citizens may consider this recommendation as it applies to their own behavior,” the Embassy said. “If you, nevertheless, choose to participate in Roppongi night life, we urge you to remain extra vigilant of your surroundings and maintain a high level of situational awareness.”

Sightseeing Sideways: Reliving the movie makes for a great weekend

Photos by Todd DeFeo / (c) 2009

By Todd DeFeo / (c) 2009

BUELLTON, Calif. – The rolling hills of the Santa Ynez Valley are the perfect backdrop for some college friends to reunite and enjoy some fine dining and the region’s wine.

Nestled in these hills are dozens of wineries, each has its own distinctive and charming feel. Located about an hour north of Los Angeles, the Santa Ynez Valley wine region is often overlooked with Napa Valley and Sonoma garnering most of the attention. But the wine produced in the valley is nothing short of spectacular.

With the box office success of “Sideways” in 2004, the region’s prominence has increased, attracting thousands of visitors to the area who want to experience the movie. “Sideways” tells the story of college roommates Miles and Jack during the week leading up to Jack’s wedding.

In addition to putting the Santa Ynez Valley on the map in many people’s minds, the movie is said to have helped grow sales of pinot noir while leading to a decrease in merlot consumption. Of pinot, Miles said, “its flavors, they’re just the most haunting and brilliant and thrilling and subtle and … ancient on the planet.”

Sightseeing “Sideways” and visiting the many places that served as the setting for Miles and Jack makes for a simple and enjoyable getaway. The movie was filmed at a number of local establishments and wineries, including Firestone Winery, Sanford Winery and Fess Parker Winery (known as Frass canyon in the movie). Traversing the winding roads that connect the dozens of wineries offers beautiful vistas.

Just off Highway 101 sits a Days Inn motel, a relatively non-descript building with the exception of a large windmill over the hotel’s lobby and the fact that this motel played a starring role in the movie adaptation of Sideways.

An affordable lodging option, the motel – referred to as The Windmill Inn in the movie – is the perfect starting off point for anyone looking to relive the Sideways experience on a Sideways tour of the Santa Ynez Valley. As Rex Pickett, the author of the book wrote, “not exactly the Four Seasons, but serviceable.”

The Hitching Post II on E. Highway 246 in Buellton is featured in the movie. While it’s a must-see to complete the Sideways experience, it’s also can’t miss destination because of its food and wine.

The restaurant boasts having the “Best BBQ steaks” and one taste of their filet mignon seasoned with the restaurant’s signature Magic Dust makes a compelling argument. While at the restaurant, complete the experience by ordering a bottle of the restaurant’s Highliner pinot noir wine – the same wine that Miles and his friends drink in the movie.

One last restaurant that is a must for fans of the movie is the Los Olivos Café & Wine Merchant, located in nearby Los Olivos. The restaurant is known for its distinctive California-Mediterranean cuisine and features an extensive wine collection. The restaurant offers Sideways menu selections featuring actual dishes served in the movie.

Of course, outside the restaurant is the alley where Miles exclaimed that he would not drink any Merlot at dinner – “I am not drinking any (expletive) merlot,” to be exact. A reenactment of the exchange is a must. And judging by the reaction my friend and I received as we exchanged lines – “say the lines,” a passerby shouted – it’s not an uncommon occurrence.

Sightseeing Sideways: Reliving the movie makes for a great weekend

Photos by Todd DeFeo / (c) 2009

By Todd DeFeo / (c) 2009

BUELLTON, Calif. – The rolling hills of the Santa Ynez Valley are the perfect backdrop for some college friends to reunite and enjoy some fine dining and the region’s wine.

Nestled in these hills are dozens of wineries, each has its own distinctive and charming feel. Located about an hour north of Los Angeles, the Santa Ynez Valley wine region is often overlooked with Napa Valley and Sonoma garnering most of the attention. But the wine produced in the valley is nothing short of spectacular.

With the box office success of “Sideways” in 2004, the region’s prominence has increased, attracting thousands of visitors to the area who want to experience the movie. “Sideways” tells the story of college roommates Miles and Jack during the week leading up to Jack’s wedding.

In addition to putting the Santa Ynez Valley on the map in many people’s minds, the movie is said to have helped grow sales of pinot noir while leading to a decrease in merlot consumption. Of pinot, Miles said, “its flavors, they’re just the most haunting and brilliant and thrilling and subtle and … ancient on the planet.”

Sightseeing “Sideways” and visiting the many places that served as the setting for Miles and Jack makes for a simple and enjoyable getaway. The movie was filmed at a number of local establishments and wineries, including Firestone Winery, Sanford Winery and Fess Parker Winery (known as Frass canyon in the movie). Traversing the winding roads that connect the dozens of wineries offers beautiful vistas.

Just off Highway 101 sits a Days Inn motel, a relatively non-descript building with the exception of a large windmill over the hotel’s lobby and the fact that this motel played a starring role in the movie adaptation of Sideways.

An affordable lodging option, the motel – referred to as The Windmill Inn in the movie – is the perfect starting off point for anyone looking to relive the Sideways experience on a Sideways tour of the Santa Ynez Valley. As Rex Pickett, the author of the book wrote, “not exactly the Four Seasons, but serviceable.”

The Hitching Post II on E. Highway 246 in Buellton is featured in the movie. While it’s a must-see to complete the Sideways experience, it’s also can’t miss destination because of its food and wine.

The restaurant boasts having the “Best BBQ steaks” and one taste of their filet mignon seasoned with the restaurant’s signature Magic Dust makes a compelling argument. While at the restaurant, complete the experience by ordering a bottle of the restaurant’s Highliner pinot noir wine – the same wine that Miles and his friends drink in the movie.

One last restaurant that is a must for fans of the movie is the Los Olivos Café & Wine Merchant, located in nearby Los Olivos. The restaurant is known for its distinctive California-Mediterranean cuisine and features an extensive wine collection. The restaurant offers Sideways menu selections featuring actual dishes served in the movie.

Of course, outside the restaurant is the alley where Miles exclaimed that he would not drink any Merlot at dinner – “I am not drinking any (expletive) merlot,” to be exact. A reenactment of the exchange is a must. And judging by the reaction my friend and I received as we exchanged lines – “say the lines,” a passerby shouted – it’s not an uncommon occurrence.

Dillard House offers country relaxation and lots to eat

By Todd DeFeo

DILLARD, Ga. – The desert bar caught my eye as I walked into the dining room. “I can’t wait for that,” I thought to myself.

The waitress told my companion and me we could help ourselves to some soup, cheese and crackers while we waited for the hot food to arrive. Never one to pass up an opportunity, I placed a few slices of cheese and some deviled eggs on my plate. I added some chili to the mix.

We returned to the table to see the waiter and a waitress placing the hot food on the table. At a cost of only $15.95, this Smörgåsbord has to be one of the best deals going – it’s a virtual sit-down buffet, as the restaurant’s staff will happily bring you as much as you can stand to eat.

There must have been 12 million calories on the table before us, from country ham to ribs to fried green tomatoes. All the major Southern food groups were represented here: fried, butter, salt and sugar.

Seriously, there were enough dishes for a half dozen people, but this spread was for two. Come hungry is good advice, but it hardly prepares one for the size of this meal. But, all kidding aside, this is a great introduction to Southern cooking for anyone who may be unfamiliar with it, and a great meal for anyone looking for the real thing. Just be prepared to take a nap afterwards.

The folks at The Dillard House wouldn’t have it any other way.

The Dillards’ ties to the region date to the late 18th century, when Capt. John Dillard was granted 1,000 acres – a reward for his service in the American Revolution. To make peace with the local Cherokee Indians, Dillard, the story goes, traded a number of items, including a jug of apple brandy, a coonskin cap, a muzzle-loading rifle, and $3 cash.

Starting in the early 20th century, Arthur and Carrie Dillard opened their house to boarders, marking the start of what would be a long tradition of hospitality. In the 1950s, the family expanded the restaurant and added a hotel. Over the years, a number of well-known people have stopped in for a meal, including Thomas Edison, Henry Ford and Walt Disney. Today, the Dillard House is a full-fledged resort, offering the true country experience in addition to a warm place to stay and a filling meal.

The House is located along U.S. Highway 441 in the Little Tennessee River Valley in the Blue Ridge Mountains and two miles from the North Carolina border. The location is beautiful and far away enough from civilization to let you forget about the worries back home for a few minutes.

After the epic meal, the grounds are the perfect way to walk off a few calories and delay the inevitable drive back home.

Dillard House offers country relaxation and lots to eat

DILLARD, Ga. – The desert bar caught my eye as I walked into the dining room. “I can’t wait for that,” I thought to myself.

The waitress told my companion and me we could help ourselves to some soup, cheese and crackers while we waited for the hot food to arrive. Never one to pass up an opportunity, I placed a few slices of cheese and some deviled eggs on my plate. I added some chili to the mix.

We returned to the table to see the waiter and a waitress placing the hot food on the table. At a cost of only $15.95, this Smörgåsbord has to be one of the best deals going – it’s a virtual sit-down buffet, as the restaurant’s staff will happily bring you as much as you can stand to eat.

There must have been 12 million calories on the table before us, from country ham to ribs to fried green tomatoes. All the major Southern food groups were represented here: fried, butter, salt and sugar.

Seriously, there were enough dishes for a half dozen people, but this spread was for two. Come hungry is good advice, but it hardly prepares one for the size of this meal. But, all kidding aside, this is a great introduction to Southern cooking for anyone who may be unfamiliar with it, and a great meal for anyone looking for the real thing. Just be prepared to take a nap afterwards.

The folks at The Dillard House wouldn’t have it any other way.

The Dillards’ ties to the region date to the late 18th century, when Capt. John Dillard was granted 1,000 acres – a reward for his service in the American Revolution. To make peace with the local Cherokee Indians, Dillard, the story goes, traded a number of items, including a jug of apple brandy, a coonskin cap, a muzzle-loading rifle, and $3 cash.

Starting in the early 20th century, Arthur and Carrie Dillard opened their house to boarders, marking the start of what would be a long tradition of hospitality. In the 1950s, the family expanded the restaurant and added a hotel. Over the years, a number of well-known people have stopped in for a meal, including Thomas Edison, Henry Ford and Walt Disney. Today, the Dillard House is a full-fledged resort, offering the true country experience in addition to a warm place to stay and a filling meal.

The House is located along U.S. Highway 441 in the Little Tennessee River Valley in the Blue Ridge Mountains and two miles from the North Carolina border. The location is beautiful and far away enough from civilization to let you forget about the worries back home for a few minutes.

After the epic meal, the grounds are the perfect way to walk off a few calories and delay the inevitable drive back home.

Unscrew the cork and try some Georgia wine

The state’s winegrowers association is hosting a “Wine Highway Weekend” in Northeast Georgia next weekend, March 20-21.

There is a $20 fee to participate in the weekend. With the fee, participants will receive a souvenir wine glass, which will serve as an entry ticket into the wineries.

Georgia’s reputation as a wine-producing state has increased in recent years, officials say. In the last five years, the total number of acres of vineyards in Georgia has tripled. During that time, at least four wineries and seven vineyards have opened.

For more information about the “Wine Highway Weekend,” log onto http://www.georgiawine.com/events/wine-highway-weekend.

Tough times: Travelers reap benefits

All signs point to a number of advantages for travelers even though times may be tough, experts say.

“Fortunately for those Americans wishing to travel now, there has probably never been a better time to take a trip, thanks to substantial price reductions across virtually every segment of the travel industry,” Roger E. Block, president of Travel Leaders Associates, said in a news release. “Business and leisure travelers alike can travel with the confidence that they’ll receive increased value for every dollar they spend, as well as with pride in knowing they are contributing to our nation’s economic well-being.”

One recent survey found that a majority of people plan to travel just as much in 2009 as they did last year, though they will be on the lookout for deals. The good news is that everyone from hotels to airlines is looking to attract customers and will be attempting to do so with a variety of deals.

“With the economic downturn there is no better time to take advantage of bonus offers currently being doled out by airlines, hotels and car rental companies,” Patrick Sojka of FrequentFlyerBonuses.com, said in a news release.

“Most major airline and hotel programs have launched very lucrative bonus incentives in the last two months as a response to what I believe is lower booking levels due to the global economic situation,” Sojka added.

Oakland Cemetery reopens this weekend

ATLANTA – Historic Oakland Cemetery reopens this weekend, a year after the grounds were damaged by a tornado. The Historic Oakland Foundation is holding a rededication ceremony at 11 a.m. today.

“The rededication ceremony offers Oakland the opportunity to thank all those who have been instrumental in our progress since the tornado,” Executive Director of Historic Oakland Foundation David Moore said in a news release. “It also allows us to bless these sacred grounds, which were disturbed one year ago. Our 2009-guided tour season opens this Saturday, March 14. So, the timing of this ceremony seems right on target.”

Oakland Cemetery was founded in 1850. Among the famous people buried in the cemetery are Margaret Mitchell, author of Gone With the Wind; Bobby Jones, one of the best golfers to ever play; and William A. Fuller, the conductor who successfully pursued Union spies during the Civil War’s Great Locomotive Chase.

'The smallest church in America'

By Todd DeFeo

SOUTH NEWPORT, Ga. – “For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst,” Jesus said, according to Matthew 18:20.

Admittedly, the cinderblock building doesn’t make much of an impression from the road. In fact, it looks more like a storage shed than a church. But, for 60 years, Christ’s Chapel in Memorial Park has served the community well – even if a dozen people at a time.

Located along U.S. Highway 17 south of Savannah, the church, which measures 10 feet by 15 feet, is known as “The smallest church in America.” Though that claim is open for debate, the church nonetheless has been attracting travelers since it opened 60 years ago.

Agnes Harper, a local grocer, built the church in 1949 and deeded the land to Jesus Christ. While many people might have expected something larger from a church, Christ’s Chapel in Memorial Park has everything one needs to hold a worship service.

“It is not the dimensions of the church which are important – it is the extent of the faith,” Harper has been quoted as saying, according to a 1998 Associated Press article. The church’s unofficial motto: “Where Folks Rub Elbows with God.”

European churches, by comparison, tend to be massive structures, often featuring intricate details or artwork. But, Christ’s Chapel’s beauty lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t feature marble statues, a cathedral ceiling or an ornate pulpit – in fact, the pulpit is barely big enough for the pastor. But, the church has stained glass windows from England and a bell tower donated in 2002 by a couple who was married at the church.

The church isn’t any particular denomination, so anyone of any faith is welcome to worship at the church. In fact, the building is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week – there isn’t even a key. When a visitor opens the church’s door, a light turns on, revealing the building’s simple interior: a dozen chairs in three rows divided by the center aisle face the pulpit.

Jesus said, “two or three,” but how about 12? Incidentally, that’s enough room for the disciples and Jesus himself in the pulpit.

'The smallest church in America'

Photos by Todd DeFeo

SOUTH NEWPORT, Ga. – “For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst,” Jesus said, according to Matthew 18:20.

Admittedly, the cinderblock building doesn’t make much of an impression from the road. In fact, it looks more like a storage shed than a church. But, for 60 years, Christ’s Chapel in Memorial Park has served the community well – even if a dozen people at a time.

Located along U.S. Highway 17 south of Savannah, the church, which measures 10 feet by 15 feet, is known as “The smallest church in America.” Though that claim is open for debate, the church nonetheless has been attracting travelers since it opened 60 years ago.

Agnes Harper, a local grocer, built the church in 1949 and deeded the land to Jesus Christ. While many people might have expected something larger from a church, Christ’s Chapel in Memorial Park has everything one needs to hold a worship service.

“It is not the dimensions of the church which are important – it is the extent of the faith,” Harper has been quoted as saying, according to a 1998 Associated Press article. The church’s unofficial motto: “Where Folks Rub Elbows with God.”

European churches, by comparison, tend to be massive structures, often featuring intricate details or artwork. But, Christ’s Chapel’s beauty lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t feature marble statues, a cathedral ceiling or an ornate pulpit – in fact, the pulpit is barely big enough for the pastor. But, the church has stained glass windows from England and a bell tower donated in 2002 by a couple who was married at the church.

The church isn’t any particular denomination, so anyone of any faith is welcome to worship at the church. In fact, the building is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week – there isn’t even a key. When a visitor opens the church’s door, a light turns on, revealing the building’s simple interior: a dozen chairs in three rows divided by the center aisle face the pulpit.

Jesus said, “two or three,” but how about 12? Incidentally, that’s enough room for the disciples and Jesus himself in the pulpit.

Businesses in a bind? Leisure travelers may benefit

The brouhaha over business travel could be a boon for leisure travelers, according to an expert with an online travel Web site.

“Leisure travelers who want the most bang for their buck on vacation this year should look to the big cities that traditionally do a lot of business in conventions and corporate events,” Brian Ek of Priceline.com said in a news release. “Cities to check out would include Las Vegas, New York, New Orleans, Miami, San Francisco, Atlanta, Orlando, Dallas and Washington, DC. In these cities, leisure travelers are likely to find aggressive, consumer-friendly pricing on everything from vacation packages and hotel rooms, to theme park tickets, attractions and restaurants.”

It’s no surprise that travelers are looking to save money on their trips, as survey numbers suggest.

Meanwhile, the flak from politicians over business travel prompted the U.S Travel Association to launch the “Meetings Mean Business” campaign to, in part, conduct research and combat what the organization believes is false and harmful information.

Kingston: The turning point of the Andrews Raid

By Todd DeFeo

KINGSTON, Ga. – Railroad travel was very different during the Civil War, and stops were frequent. In some cases, a town’s sole livelihood was the railroad.

So, when railroads gave way to the highway in the mid-20th century, these towns – vital railroad communities that were hubs during the Civil War – no longer served the same importance. Such is the case with the Georgia town of Kingston.

At the time of the Andrews Raid on April 12, 1862, Kingston was a junction for the Western & Atlantic and the Rome railroads. On the morning of the now-infamous chase, the raiders were making good time on their plot to destroy the Western & Atlantic, but other troop movements in the Southeast led to more southbound trains on the line.

So, when the raiders reached the town of Kingston, they encountered an unexpected delay. It would turn out to also be a deadly one, as it gave a pursuing party time to close the gap. While there is little that remains to show just how important this town was, the former track bed of the Rome Railroad and the foundation of the town’s railroad depot remain.

Today, only an historical marker marks the raiders’ time in Kingston.

The pursuers left Kingston on the William R. Smith, a locomotive from the Rome Railroad, heading toward Adairsville, Ga. Just south of town, the raiders stopped to tear up the track, prohibiting their pursuers from continuing the chase in a locomotive. At this point, the pursuers abandoned their second locomotive – the William R. Smith – and continued on foot. Minutes later, they commandeered their third engine – the Texas, which ran in reverse for the remainder of the chase.

After leaving Kingston, the raiders continued north. The train depot in Adairsville north of Kingston, built circa 1850, has been converted into a museum dedicated to the Great Locomotive Chase.

Kingston: The turning point of the Andrews Raid

KINGSTON, Ga. – Railroad travel was very different during the Civil War, and stops were frequent. In some cases, a town’s sole livelihood was the railroad.

So, when railroads gave way to the highway in the mid-20th century, these towns – vital railroad communities that were hubs during the Civil War – no longer served the same importance. Such is the case with the Georgia town of Kingston.

At the time of the Andrews Raid on April 12, 1862, Kingston was a junction for the Western & Atlantic and the Rome railroads. On the morning of the now-infamous chase, the raiders were making good time on their plot to destroy the Western & Atlantic, but other troop movements in the Southeast led to more southbound trains on the line.

So, when the raiders reached the town of Kingston, they encountered an unexpected delay. It would turn out to also be a deadly one, as it gave a pursuing party time to close the gap. While there is little that remains to show just how important this town was, the former track bed of the Rome Railroad and the foundation of the town’s railroad depot remain.

Today, only an historical marker marks the raiders’ time in Kingston.

The pursuers left Kingston on the William R. Smith, a locomotive from the Rome Railroad, heading toward Adairsville, Ga. Just south of town, the raiders stopped to tear up the track, prohibiting their pursuers from continuing the chase in a locomotive. At this point, the pursuers abandoned their second locomotive – the William R. Smith – and continued on foot. Minutes later, they commandeered their third engine – the Texas, which ran in reverse for the remainder of the chase.

After leaving Kingston, the raiders continued north. The train depot in Adairsville north of Kingston, built circa 1850, has been converted into a museum dedicated to the Great Locomotive Chase.

Daylight saving time: Another hour to enjoy the outdoors

Daylight Saving Time is here, and the great outdoors is beckoning adventurers with an extra hour of daylight.

In fact, 84 percent of Americans say they will spend the extra time outside, according to a survey conducted on behalf of Back to Nature by StrategyOne. Yet, nature-related activities – including hiking, fishing and visits to public parks – declined 18-25 percent since 1981, according to The Nature Conservancy.

“Nature is within our reach every day, yet people are not spending as much time outside as they used to,” Steve Long, conservation director of The Nature Conservancy, said in a news release. “We want to help people experience the simple wonders of nature and get them outside again this spring.”

To promote the return to nature, Back to Nature and The Nature Conservancy created The Backyard Guide to Nature. The online resource offers a number of simple outdoor activities that can be done locally.

“You don’t have to travel far or spend a great deal to enjoy the nature all around you,” Back to Nature’s Dan Anglemyer said in a news release. “Our guide reminds people of the endless ways they can interact with nature - from simply watching a sunset to camping in their own backyards.”

Daylight saving time: Another hour to enjoy the outdoors

Daylight Saving Time is here, and the great outdoors is beckoning adventurers with an extra hour of daylight.

In fact, 84 percent of Americans say they will spend the extra time outside, according to a survey conducted on behalf of Back to Nature by StrategyOne. Yet, nature-related activities – including hiking, fishing and visits to public parks – declined 18-25 percent since 1981, according to The Nature Conservancy.

“Nature is within our reach every day, yet people are not spending as much time outside as they used to,” Steve Long, conservation director of The Nature Conservancy, said in a news release. “We want to help people experience the simple wonders of nature and get them outside again this spring.”

To promote the return to nature, Back to Nature and The Nature Conservancy created The Backyard Guide to Nature. The online resource offers a number of simple outdoor activities that can be done locally.

“You don’t have to travel far or spend a great deal to enjoy the nature all around you,” Back to Nature’s Dan Anglemyer said in a news release. “Our guide reminds people of the endless ways they can interact with nature - from simply watching a sunset to camping in their own backyards.”

Survey: 66 percent plan to take same number of trips as last year

A new survey by an off-site airport parking company found that 66 percent of its travel customers – both business and leisure – plan to travel just as much in 2009 as they did last year.

However, the survey from Fast Park also revealed that while people don’t want to cut the number of trips they take, they are looking to save money on those trips. It’s no surprise that 50 percent plan to look for online deals while 27 percent plan stay closer to home and 21 percent plan to take shorter trips.

On the business side, 53 percent of travelers said their companies are taking steps to reduce travel costs this year.

“It’s clear most of our customers want to (or must) continue traveling despite current economic conditions,” Manuel Chavez, chief operations officer at Fast Park, said in a news release. “We’re all affected by the current economy in one way or another. Many of our corporate partners are unable to reduce their travel and we understand their need to reduce expenses. We’re working with these groups individually to develop bulk rate discounts whenever we can.”

Association: Tone down the rhetoric about travel

A new campaign from the U.S Travel Association aims to “challenge policymakers to tone down the dangerous rhetoric, embrace sensible guidelines for companies receiving assistance and promote travel as an economic solution.”

Business travel, the group says, accounts for 15 percent of the nation’s travel, creates 1 million jobs and generates $16 billion in tax revenues annually. But, in recent weeks, some politicians have called out companies for taking junkets, saying they are unnecessary and wasteful, prompting a war of words between Washington and destinations such as Las Vegas.

The U.S Travel Association launched the “Meetings Mean Business” campaign to, in part, conduct research and combat what the organization believes is false and harmful information.

The organization cited a new Meetings and Convention Magazine survey revealing that more than 20 percent of companies, which have not received a “bailout,” have canceled events because of news reports and political attention while 52 percent say media coverage has been extremely or moderately influential on their company’s decisions to hold events.

“Make no mistake, companies that have received taxpayer assistance must be held to a different standard and conduct their business in a transparent and responsible manner,” Roger Dow, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, said in a news release. “But the pendulum has swung too far. The climate of fear is causing a historic pullback of business meetings and events, with a devastating impact on small businesses, American workers and communities.”

Odd vs. even: What gives?

By Todd DeFeo

ATLANTA – Interstate 75 is a north-south route, while Interstate 20 is runs east-west. Most people know that’s the case because they’re either familiar with the roads or they know that highways with odd number designations run north-south while even number roads run east-west.

What you may not have known is that this wasn’t always the case. It wasn’t until the 1920s – once the automobile revolution was in full swing – that officials decided to start using standard signs and the odd-even road designations for the nation’s 3 million miles of roads.

Today, there are 4 million miles of roads, including 47,000 miles of interstate highways, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. And because of the decision to move to the odd-even highway designations along with standard signs, one made 84 years ago this week, it’s easier to traverse the country and see all that it has to offer.

Odd vs. even: What gives?

ATLANTA – Interstate 75 is a north-south route, while Interstate 20 is runs east-west. Most people know that’s the case because they’re either familiar with the roads or they know that highways with odd number designations run north-south while even number roads run east-west.

What you may not have known is that this wasn’t always the case. It wasn’t until the 1920s – once the automobile revolution was in full swing – that officials decided to start using standard signs and the odd-even road designations for the nation’s 3 million miles of roads.

Today, there are 4 million miles of roads, including 47,000 miles of interstate highways, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. And because of the decision to move to the odd-even highway designations along with standard s

Wine, opulence and pork chops

By Todd DeFeo

ASEHVILLE, N.C. – We sat at the counter of Tupelo Honey Cafe watching the organized madness before us. Chefs ladled gravy into bowls while sausage patties sizzled on the griddle before our eyes.

Order after order made its way to the plate. The pancakes that cooked away just a few feet in front of me were massive.

I ordered an omelet with cheddar cheese and some local sausage. My companion ordered French Toast made with challah bread and topped with blueberries and a bowl of grits on the side. The blueberry topping was sweet enough that no syrup was needed for the French toast, I’m told. Now, I am not a grits fan, but these, I must admit, were tasty – nice and creamy as opposed to gritty.

From there, we headed to Asheville’s most popular attraction: the Biltmore Estate.

The house, known as America’s largest private residence, was built by George Washington Vanderbilt, the grandson of Cornelius Vanderbilt, who amassed his wealth in steamships and railroads. The younger Vanderbilt built the house between 1888 and 1895, and enjoyed the French-style chateau for 19 years before his death in 1914.

While the house itself is today a museum of sorts, its contents are as impressive as the structure itself: there’s the chess set that once belonged to Napoleon Bonaparte, an 18th century ceiling painting by Pellegrini once featured in Venice’s Pisani Palace and one of the nation’s first bowling alleys, built in 1895 – just to name a few.

Frankly, I find it hard to image what it must have been like to live here.

After touring the house, we headed over to the winery for a tour and a wine tasting. We started by sitting in on a 45-minute class about pairing wine and chocolate. With the chocolate, we sampled the cabernet sauvignon and the Cardinal’s Crest. At the second tasting, we had a choice of any five wines, so I went with the limited release cabernet sauvignon, syrah, zinfandel, pinot noir and sangiovese. No Merlot.

For dinner, we chose Corner Kitchen, located in an historic house in the Biltmore Village, just feet from the Estate’s front gate.

I started with banderilla – lemon oregano chicken on a skewer on a bed of Greek-style potatoes. For the main course, I ordered the chili dusted pork chop on tomato rice with chayote squash, mango salsa and ancho aioli. We paired dinner with a malbec from Argentina.

No direction needed to enjoy a day in Asheville

By Todd DeFeo

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – I had no direction in mind when I walked into the chocolate bar. French Broad Chocolate Bar’s offerings are extensive, centering around, obviously, chocolate.

I ordered a cinnamon and cayenne hot chocolate and a mint brownie. Apparently, I didn’t coordinate my selections.

The brownie was deliciously rich and the hot chocolate had a nice spicy kick to it. Personally, I don’t often think of chocolate and cayenne complementing one another, but they made for a nice pairing. I see how locals could make this one of their favorite indulgences – if not for the lengthy menu, then for the coffee and chocolate tastings they offer.

After our fill of chocolate, we took to foot to burn of a few calories and headed over to Mast General Store.

With its hardwood floors and wide selection of merchandise, the store turned back the clock to a different time and a different place. Its origins date back to 1883, but the Asheville location opened 10 years ago, and seems to offer nearly one of everything, from camping gear to pet accessories to local bluegrass music. But, it was the knife-spoon-fork combination utensil that caught my attention. I know this will come in handy.

For dinner, we headed to Bistro 1896, located on Asheville’s historic Pack Square. The restaurant has the look and feel of a quaint eatery, but it’ll actually hold up to 160 people. Given that it’s currently offseason, the restaurant was quiet, but the service was exceptional. I’ll admit that I took a peek at the menu online in advance, and I had my heart set on their shrimp and grits.

At first, I regretted ordering a zinfandel, but it opened up nicely, and once my main course arrived, it turned out to be the perfect match (yes, I order a red wine with shrimp and grits).

The shrimp and grits were stuffed with ham, red peppers and spinach, and it was easy to forget this was shrimp and grits – not that that makes for a bad prospect at all. The meal was both hearty and warming – the perfect dish for a cold night. Looking back, I don’t think there’s anything else I would have rather ordered.

That’s all for day one.

What’s behind that wonderful smell in the air?

By Todd DeFeo

CASHIERS, N.C. – The Carolina Smokehouse was quiet as I entered – it was barely a quarter past 11 in the morning. A handful of folks sat around the bar, carrying on a casual conversation. It’s a very pleasant way to pass the time on a Saturday morning.

Sit anywhere, the waitress said. The smell was thick and inviting, so I ordered a pork BBQ plate, an early lunch that promised to please.

“I’ve spent most of my money on beer and BAR-B-Q. The rest I’ve just wasted,” read one of the signs on the Smokehouse’s walls. That’s not a bad way to go through life.

At least two Florida state legislator “tags” and a couple of amateur radio “tags” are among the dozens of license plates that make up the décor of the restaurant, located along U.S. Highway 64. Most, if not all, of the republic’s 50 states are represented, my casual observation reveals.

It takes only a few minutes for the food to arrive. The onion rings were hearty, and the hot BBQ sauce atop my pork plate packed the perfect punch. In the sauce, there was heat for the sake of flavor, not heat for the sake of heat. And, as contradictory as it sounds, the sweet tea wasn’t overly sweet – it wasn’t two parts sugar per one part liquid, that is.

A mix of regulars and visitors trickle into the restaurant. Before long, I hit the road once again, but it’s easy to see why this place is so popular and attracted Alton Brown during his cross-country motorcycle trip, Feasting on Asphalt.

What’s behind that wonderful smell in the air?

CASHIERS, N.C. – The Carolina Smokehouse was quiet as I entered – it was barely a quarter past 11 in the morning. A handful of folks sat around the bar, carrying on a casual conversation. It’s a very pleasant way to pass the time on a Saturday morning.

Sit anywhere, the waitress said. The smell was thick and inviting, so I ordered a pork BBQ plate, an early lunch that promised to please.

“I’ve spent most of my money on beer and BAR-B-Q. The rest I’ve just wasted,” read one of the signs on the Smokehouse’s walls. That’s not a bad way to go through life.

At least two Florida state legislator “tags” and a couple of amateur radio “tags” are among the dozens of license plates that make up the décor of the restaurant, located along U.S. Highway 64. Most, if not all, of the republic’s 50 states are represented, my casual observation reveals.

It takes only a few minutes for the food to arrive. The onion rings were hearty, and the hot BBQ sauce atop my pork plate packed the perfect punch. In the sauce, there was heat for the sake of flavor, not heat for the sake of heat. And, as contradictory as it sounds, the sweet tea wasn’t overly sweet – it wasn’t two parts sugar per one part liquid, that is.

A mix of regulars and visitors trickle into the restaurant. Before long, I hit the road once again, but it’s easy to see why this place is so popular and attracted Alton Brown during his cross-country motorcycle trip, Feasting on Asphalt.