WOODSTOCK, GEORGIA-JANUARY 2026—Woodstock is only 30 minutes from the bustling city of Atlanta and yet feels as if it’s a world away offering small-town charm, award-winning dining, unique boutiques and shops and numerous ways to enjoy the North Georgia outdoors. But don’t let the size fool you. Woodstock’s a vibrant economic hub, calling home to some of the most innovative entrepreneurs today.  

Longtime residents Stephanie and Chris Beck began their road to open Eden Smoothies in downtown Woodstock (470 Chambers Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 770-672-7273) with a Kickstarter campaign. They had the support of Woodstock from day one and now offer nutritional food and smoothies to the community, while expanding to other markets due to this success.

When Wendy Rincon immigrated to Woodstock from Venezuela the idea of opening her Gustock International Market & Bakery (9550 Main Street, Suite 160, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 470-626-4220) appeared daunting for a woman who spoke a different language. But Woodstock embraced her business that she now runs with her husband Kevin. Wendy found the town both welcoming and supportive in their new venture and now not only runs her market offering homemade Hispanic products such as arepas, cachitos and empanadas but serves customers at the Saturday Farm Fresh Market, an idyllic small town farmer’s market with big city amenities that runs April through December. 

A true economic incubator is Made Mercantile (8636 Main Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 678-444-9134), an inviting space in the heart of Woodstock that supports artists through access to workspaces, retail and educational opportunities. One of the artists who became a “Made Maker” is Bryttany Hyde, a photographer who sold original stationary in the Mercantile store. Through Made Mercantile, she learned about product development and ecommerce, later launching her full-time business, The Little Sober Bar (117 Mill Street, Woodstock, Georgia, 30188; 770-685-6819). This brick and mortar space will open in downtown Woodstock this year offering an inclusive social space.

Other innovative creators working through Made Mercantile include Ericka Axelsson, the creator of The Cloud Makers, a unique and whimsical way to water plants; and Eva Lester, who creates stylish but protective glasses for women as Gleam Eyewear. The visionary and manager of Made Mercantile is Madison Beaulieu, who sells her products as Beau Paper Co. in the gift shop along with her husband Dusty’s products with Blue Elixir Press. A true entrepreneur believing in the sharing of ideas and the power of community, Madison serves as the Creative Programs Manager for The Woodstock Office of Economic Development, as well as the city’s Public Art Coordinator.

View more of Woodstock’s entrepreneur stories here.

A town embracing entrepreneurship

Look around Woodstock and visitors will find a creative-friendly and encouraging space for entrepreneurs. Coming soon to the next dreamers who want to add their expertise to this vibrant city is the City Center, an exciting development in the heart of town that will include a new six-story, 130-room boutique hotel as well as multiple food and beverage venues, a spa, ground-floor retail outlets and 5,000 square feet of meeting and event space. 

Another exciting development expanding on the northern end of downtown Woodstock is Adair Park where two locally owned restaurants have been nabbing “best of” awards: Roberto’s Deluxe (8212 Main Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 770-395-9592) and Paloma Tequila & Tacos (8184 Main Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 770-800-8046). 

Visiting Woodstock 

Come for the entrepreneurial spirit and stay to experience so much more. Woodstock offers a variety of lodging options, spectacular dining experiences, shopping and entertainment. Don’t miss dinner at one of downtown Woodstock’s dining establishments like Fire & Stone Italian Pizza Kitchen (509 Chambers St., Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 678-744-2099) which opened in the Woodstock train depot after a significant renovation of the historic structure. Grab a local brew at Reformation Brewery (105 Elm Street) and browse Findlay Rowe Designs Gift Shop and Boutique (102 Fowler Street) for a one-of-a-kind find.

For information on annual events and year-round happenings such as walking tours, seasonal markets and more, visit VisitWoodstockGA.com/annual-events/ or stop by the Woodstock Visitors Center (8588 Main Street, Woodstock, Georgia 30188; 770-924-0406), located in the heart of downtown Woodstock.

The post Woodstock, Georgia’s Thriving Entrepreneurs appeared first on Travel Media Press Room.

GULF COUNTY, FLORIDA–DECEMBER 2025–Gulf County, Florida, located at the heart of the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast, is known for its combination of beach town fun and hometown charm. Located two hours southwest of Tallahassee and just an hour east of Panama City Beach, Gulf County is filled with beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, on the water and off. Enjoying those activities means meeting the locals and being greeted with a warm welcome, genuine enthusiasm and an invitation to love Gulf County, too.

It’s clear to see this is not just a beach destination, it is home to a host of Gulf County entrepreneurs who love sharing it with guests. A stroll down Port St. Joe’s popular Reid Avenue offers the perfect introduction. The shops and restaurants are all locally owned, most are family operated. The variety includes the welcoming staff serving organic coffees, teas and baked goods at The Joe (220 Reid Avenue, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-229-8065) and the handmade specialties of St. Joe Soaps (109 Reid Avenue, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-340-0900), which can also be found in many of the local lodging establishments who support the business. Some soaps are created with the world-famous Tupelo Honey, harvested by local beekeepers in nearby Wewahitchka. And finding the products of Smiley Honey (161 Bozeman Circle, Wewahitchka, Florida 32465; 850-639-5672) at area retailers is another sweet discovery. At Bay Breeze Antiques (219 Reid Avenue, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-229-7774), nautical accessories and beachy home décor are joined by locally created art. This quaint shopping district is filled with the warm and welcoming atmosphere created by entrepreneurs who support each other and love their hometown. 

That love is no more evident than at the newly opened Hotel Saint Joseph (504 Monument Avenue, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-253-7957). Port St. Joe’s newest boutique hotel combines a tribute to the past with the best of today’s luxury and convenience. The hotel has brought new life to a storied local landmark, the former Florida National Bank, built in 1966. The vision for the hotel was conceived by local businessmen who reimagined the property as a way to create something new and exciting while saving a bit of the community’s past.

Nearby, the entire community is supporting the renovation of another downtown classic. The Port Theatre (314 Reid Avenue, Port Saint Joe, Florida 32456) will reopen as an art and cultural center. The theater showed its first movie in 1938 and has been a fixture in this town since then and, even through years of closure and disrepair, has retained its historic character. Now, local citizens have joined together to preserve, renovate and reopen the theater. The efforts are underway and, in addition to the work, the locals have also been sharing their memories of the theater, reigniting the joy the theater has brought and will bring again, upon reopening.

Of course, everyone here has an affinity for protecting the area’s popular beaches and waters. Far more than just a playground, locals want to ensure these important natural resources are sustained and protected. Organizations like the Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Center (1001 10th Street, Port St Joe, Florida 32456) – along with most every business in town – are eager to share information about the annual sea turtle nesting and hatching season and how everyone plays a role in turtle conservation. To learn more, a visit to the St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve (3915 State Road #30-A, Port Saint Joe, Florida 32456; 850-229-1787) offers an in-depth experience of the beach habitat and beyond. Multi-use trails are beautiful settings for hiking, biking, horseback riding, birding and more and time at the visitor center or on a tram tour offer stories of the area’s history and culture.

These are just some of the ways the Gulf County locals show their love of their home and their love of sharing it with visitors. Whether scoping out the best selfie spots around town or taking the ferry service (St. Vincent Island Shuttle Services, 690 Indian Pass Road, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-229-1065) to the remote St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge (850-653-8808) located on an island off the mainland, visitors will find the culture of this community prevails. It preserves its treasures, it supports its people and it welcomes its visitors with open arms. 

Where to eat

When enjoying the culture of Gulf County, of course its food is a centerpiece. There are many options for dining, on the water and off, and visitors love to try some of the longstanding local favorites that have become iconic dining spots here.

A Gulf County classic, Indian Pass Raw Bar (8391 County Road 30A, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-227-1670) is known for its fresh oysters – along with a menu filled with other seafood options – and its laid-back atmosphere.

The extensive menu at Shipwreck Raw Bar (7008 W Highway 98, Port St. Joe, Florida 32456; 850-647-5050) is a family favorite for breakfast, lunch and dinner in a comfortable, fun atmosphere.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA–SEPTEMBER 2025–As one of the most iconic beach destinations in the U.S., Daytona Beach, Florida, is a special place for many who visit its famed beaches to enjoy fun family vacations, racing excitement or annual special events. Even those who visit for the first time can enjoy what loyal repeat visitors have come to know: one of the characteristics that makes this East Coast locale a unique destination is the love of the locals. That love goes beyond the welcoming people and inclusive atmosphere. It is found in the fabric of the distinct neighborhoods where preserved traditions and multi-generational businesses add character, diversity and culture, making Daytona Beach so much more than just fun in the sun.

Daytona Beach is midway between St. Augustine and the Kennedy Space Center and just an hour east of Orlando. Access is easy, by car or air, with Interstate 95 and Interstate 4 intersecting here and the Daytona Beach International Airport (700 Catalina Drive, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-248-8030) offering non-stop flights from select cities.

A huge part of Daytona Beach’s popularity has evolved around its racing history. That history is celebrated in unexpected ways throughout this diverse destination. In Ponce Inlet, at Racing’s North Turn Beach Bar & Grill (4511 South Atlantic Avenue, Ponce Inlet, Florida 32127; 386-322-3258) visitors will find not only one of Florida’s Top 10 Beach Bars but also a historic landmark and racing museum. In addition to its full menu and amazing collection of memorabilia, the North Turn has a beautiful beach view of the exact spot where racing began here, on the beach, in 1936. Ponce Inlet is also the home of the tallest lighthouse in Florida. At 175 feet high, the 360-degree view from atop the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse (4931 South Peninsula Drive, Ponce Inlet, Florida 32127; 386-761-1821) takes in the ocean and river. The historic landmark was completed in 1887 and today the lighthouse, grounds and museum tell fascinating stories of Florida’s history. Located next door to the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is the Constance D. Hunter Pacetti Hotel Museum. Built in the 1880s, this storied hotel stands as one of Volusia County’s oldest surviving structures, offering a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved rooms and grounds. Originally a lively boarding house and fishing resort, the hotel has been meticulously restored to showcase its rich history and significance to the local community.   

Just to the north, Ormond Beach is known as the Birthplace of Speed, as racing speed trials were held here as early as 1903. The Birthplace of Speed Park (21 Ocean Shore Boulevard, Ormond Beach, Florida 32176; 386-676-3216) is home to a small replica of the Ormond Garage. The garage houses replicas of Bullet #1 and the Pirate automobiles. For a classic Ormond Beach dining experience, Mario’s Italian Restaurant & Lounge (521 South Yonge Street, Ormond Beach, Florida 32174; 386-677-2711) has been a favorite for more than 56 years. Through three generations, owner Tom Bertolami’s family has developed a stellar reputation and loyal following for its menu, which features veal, shrimp, mussels, clams, calamari and more, and an atmosphere perfect for a romantic night out or a casual evening with friends. Nearby, Rose Villa Southern Table & Bar (43 West Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach, Florida 32176; 386-615-7673) was established as a bed and breakfast in 1901 and today visitors can dine inside, alfresco, or on the porch amid that atmosphere reminiscent of an earlier era. The menu features an eclectic mix of Southern inspired cuisine, craft cocktails and extensive wine list. 

Of course, the Daytona International Speedway (1801 West International Speedway Boulevard, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 800-748-7467) remains an iconic attraction and the centerpiece of the Speedway District. Fans can enjoy a fast-paced race day or a more personal speedway tour. They can even drive or ride in a NASCAR race car as part of the NASCAR Racing Experience (1801 West International Speedway Boulevard, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 800-237-3889). But beyond the track, many areas of Daytona Beach have locations that celebrate the origins and traditions of racing here, along with many other traditions and activities that locals hold dear.

Other neighborhoods have stories of the past to share, as well. Historic Beach Street is lined with shops and restaurants along the mile-long Riverfront Esplanade (Magnolia Avenue & Beach Street, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114), which offers views of the Intracoastal Waterway. This is also home to local attractions like the Jackie Robinson Ballpark (105 East Orange Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-257-3172) and the Halifax Historical Museum (252 South Beach Street, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-255-6976), which each tell unique stories of Daytona Beach history. And of course, there’s the Boardwalk District, with the Daytona Beach boardwalk (12 South Ocean Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-253-0254), pier (1200 Main Street, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114) and bandshell, all a part of Daytona Beach’s perennial appeal to visitors of all ages.

A taste of tradition

Ormond Garage (48 West Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach, Florida 32174; 386-492-7981) is a locally owned and operated craft brewery that pays tribute to the neighborhood’s racing history. The historic garage is now a favorite spot for local brews, casual dining amid reminders of a storied past.  

Copper Bottom Craft Distillery (998 North Beach Street, Holly Hill, Florida 32117; 386-267-5104) is home to an artisan spirit-making operation, carrying on the tradition of sugar cane growers and rum runners of earlier generations. Located on the site of the oldest sugar plantation and rum distillery in North America, it welcomes visitors to taste the spirits and experience the history.

Rosie’s Café is located inside Dunn’s Attic (136 West Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach, Florida 32174; (386-673-0044) and owned by a family that has been in business in Volusia County for 125 years, spanning seven generations. Big breakfasts, hot sandwiches and delicious desserts are all menu favorites.

Coffees and teas are the drinks of choice at Gold Leaf Coffee Company (17 West Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach, Florida 32174; 386-301-5652). This locally-owned small batch roaster located in the heart of Ormond Beach serves locally sourced products including Steel Oak Coffee, Yaupon Tea and homemade ice cream.

Landmark lodging

Daytona Beach has an impressive number of lodging options, from full-service hotels to upscale resorts to beachfront cottages. For some, the perfect visit includes a stay at one of the classic spots that have been a part of this destination’s fabric for decades:

Tropical Manor on the Ocean (2237 South Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach Shores, Florida 32118; 386-252-4920) is a collection of tropical themed cottages dubbed an “oceanfront oasis” in Daytona Beach Shores. The property’s story began in 1956, when Audrey and Alfred Kelleman, who fell in love with Daytona Beach on their honeymoon, purchased a six-room motel and named it the Tropical Manor. It is still family-owned and -operated today.

Perry’s Ocean Edge Resort (2209 South Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-255-0581) has a history that began in the 1940s with 17 guestrooms. More than 75 years later, Perry’s has been redesigned and infused with modern style and amenities and is still welcoming guests. The resort now features 213 efficiencies and suites, a landscaped oceanfront lawn, two outdoor pools, one indoor pool and a whole lot more. Complimentary homemade donuts are served daily.

The Streamline Hotel (140 South Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-947-7470) is a 1940s Art Deco boutique hotel in the heart of Daytona Beach, and is said to be the Birthplace of NASCAR. Lore is that this was a haven for celebrities, race car drivers and moonshiners and that in 1947 a meeting at the rooftop bar resulted in the formation of NASCAR. Newly restored, the hotel features 44 guestrooms, and two restaurant and bar venues. Its walls are adorned with photos and mementos from the history of NASCAR are displayed.

The Coral Sands Inn & RV Resort (1009 Ocean Shore Blvd., Ormond Beach, Florida 32118; 1-800-441-1821) provides the only place in the Daytona Beach area where you can camp with your RV overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Having opened in the mid-1940s, the property has that old Florida vibe and is a great destination for families for generations. Also located on property is a five-story hotel with 68 rooms and a wide-variety of ocean view cottages.

The post Local Influences Add to Daytona Beach’s Appeal appeared first on Travel Media Press Room.

ABINGDON, VIRGINIA–AUGUST 2025–The 19 counties of Southwest Virginia comprise a region rich in culture and natural resources. Within a day’s drive of more than half of the United States population, this is a popular destination for those looking for a getaway filled with authentic experiences that showcase the diversity of character, traditions and outdoor adventures that makes Southwest Virginia unique.

The past is a vibrant and powerful part of the present here. Regional traditions have shaped the culture and economy of the communities throughout this diverse landscape and many of today’s attractions hold stories of days gone by and earlier ways of life.

Visitors can experience America’s first “Old West” amid the mountain splendor and along trails used by the Cherokee, Shawnee and other Native American tribes. At Crab Orchard Museum & Pioneer Park (3663 Crab Orchard Road, Tazewell, Virginia 24651; 276-988-6755) exhibits depicting pioneer life of Western settlers are on display with 14 log cabins from the 1800s, horse-drawn carriages, farm equipment and more showing what daily life was like. There are also exhibits recounting military conflicts and the 500-year-old Native American Village discovered on site.

Franklin County is known as the Moonshine Capital of the World. Here commerce thrived during prohibition, built on the railroad line and the work of moonshiners and bootleggers. Today the stories live on and liquor flows freely, with distilleries holding their own place in today’s economy and regional experience. Franklin County Distilleries (25156 Highway 220, Franklin County, Virginia 24065; 540-334-1610) became the first legal distillery to open after prohibition. Today, visitors can enjoy its family restaurant as well as the tasting room where “White Label Corn Whiskey” is still a favorite. It is just one of the thriving distilleries with stories to tell and tasty products to sell. The list includes Laws Choice Distillery, operated by three generations of the Law family and made famous on the Discovery Channel hit show, “Moonshiners.”

Southwest Virginia’s coal mining towns have stories to tell, too, and along the miles of scenic byways known as the Virginia Coal Heritage Trail they are still a part of this diverse region. On a drive through seven counties travelers can see working mines and museums and learn of the industry and culture of mining. Pocahontas was Virginia’s first coal boom town and converted buildings, including the old power house and company store, chronicle its mining history. The Exhibition Mine & Museum (215 Shop Hollow Road, Pocahontas, Virginia 24635; 276-945-9522) is the only one of its kind in Virginia, offering tours of the original Pocahontas #3 Coal Seam Mine. Visitors can see how coal was cut, blasted and loaded into mine cars. To the west is Dante, which was once the headquarters of the Clinchfield Coal Corporation. The last mine was closed in 1959, but Dante Coal Mining and Railroad Museum (30 Straight Hollow Road, Dante, Virginia 24237; 276-495-1903) and Dante Coal Miner’s Memorial (506 Bunch Town Road, Dante, Virginia 24237; 276-495-1903) offer an opportunity to explore the town’s history. Nearby, Appalachia is a largely intact turn-of-the-century town with coal camps, mining equipment and railroad buildings still in their original locations. It’s also home to the famous Bee Rock Tunnel, the shortest railroad tunnel in the world according to Ripley’s Believe It or Not. 

It’s clear to see, and easy to appreciate, the beauty and diversity of the scenic Southwest Virginia landscape, which sits among the majestic Appalachian Mountains, features thousands of acres of public land and boasts a total of 11 state parks. It’s no wonder world class outdoor activities are popular throughout this region.  

• The state has more miles of the Appalachian Trail than any other and one of the most scenic and accessible sections runs through the heart of Southwest Virginia. 
• The variety of hiking and biking trails in Southwest Virginia is unmatched and is best known by cyclists for the Hall of Fame Virginia Creeper Trail (Abingdon Trailhead: 300 Green Spring Road, Abingdon, Virginia 24210) a premier Rails to Trails route offering stunning views along 34 miles of multi-use trail. 
• The Clinch River is known as the world’s most bio-diverse river. It travels 135 miles and is home to about 50 species of mussels (which is more than any other river in the world) and more than 100 species of non-game fish.
• Breaks Interstate Park (627 Commission Circle, Breaks, Virginia 24607; 276-865-4413, ext. 3201) is home to the Breaks Canyon, one of the deepest gorges east of the Mississippi River, known as the Grand Canyon of the South. There are miles of hiking trails through rugged cliffs, roaring rivers and dense forests. Mountain biking, rock climbing and bouldering, as well as fishing, paddling and boating are also popular activities. 
• Mount Rogers National Recreation Area (3714 VA-16, Marion, Virginia 24354; 800-628-7202) offers approximately 200,000 acres and spans what’s known as the Crest Zone, with elevations of over 4,000 feet. The variety here is unmatched, with large rock formations and mountain balds as well as forest lands. The 68-mile Virginia Highlands Horse Trail and the Virginia Creeper Trail each traverse these lands.
• Mount Rogers Scenic Byway offers 50 miles of views through the recreation area and, of course, the famed Blue Ridge Parkway is a favorite for those who want to take in the scenic beauty of the Southwest Virginia region.

And, of course, there is the music the region is known for. Bristol is known as the Birthplace of Country Music and music is a big part of life throughout Southwest Virginia. The Birthplace of Country Music Museum (101 Country Music Way, Bristol, Virginia 24201; 423-573-1927) is the perfect place to start a musical journey. Follow that with a trip down The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail to get the full experience of how the diverse musical heritage is woven into the tapestry of the region’s rich history and unique culture. This 330-mile driving trail connects 10 major venues and more than 40 affiliated venues and festivals for visitors to enjoy. 

The post Southwest Virginia: Epic Settings for Unforgettable Stories appeared first on Travel Media Press Room.

NORTHSHORE, LOUISIANA–JUNE 2025–The Northshore has long been a refreshing escape, offering a perfect balance for those who love small-town charm and big-time fun. Whether your kind of fun is exploring the outdoors or perusing local shops, this is the place. Of course, food is also fun here, and longstanding Louisiana favorites, along with innovative specialties, fill a variety of menus. Located just 40 minutes north of New Orleans, an hour east of Baton Rouge and an hour west of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the Northshore is easily accessible via Interstate 12—and its communities offer a resounding welcome.

Throughout St. Tammany Parish, the towns and neighborhoods of the Northshore each have a character of their own. Visitors are made to feel right at home and invited to join the locals in enjoying what they love most about their destination. With front porch views of Lake Pontchartrain and backyard gems like the Tammany Trace bike trail and the lush Honey Island Swamp, the communities of the Northshore are a natural for those who love the outdoors. But the region’s personality also shines brightly throughout its downtown streets, hometown hideouts and special attractions—a combination like no other.

Slidell is the largest of the Northshore cities, offering a mix of on-the-water activities, shopping and dining. There are plenty of ways to relish the coastal environment and a variety of waters to explore. A fleet of fishing charters with experienced captains awaits those ready to wet a hook on the waters of Lake Pontchartrain. Swamp tour operators also invite guests to explore the region’s pristine primeval wilderness—by tour boat or kayak.

Back on land, retail options include boutiques, antiques and a shopping center filled with familiar favorites. Olde Towne Slidell is a popular neighborhood that invites visitors to enjoy the streetscapes, which include more than a dozen murals, and a variety of specialty stores ranging from Green Oaks Apothecary (2238 First Street, Slidell, Louisiana 70458; 985-285-5613), with its herbal teas and essential oils, to the Old Town Slidell Soda Shop (301 Cousin Street, Slidell, Louisiana 70458; 985-649-4806), where kids of all ages enjoy ice cream cones, shakes or root beer floats, along with a food menu of all-American classics like burgers, dogs, pretzels and wings. More dining options in Slidell include local favorites such as the upscale Gallagher’s on Front Street (2306 Front Street, Slidell, Louisiana 70458; 985-326-8350) for steaks and Middendorf’s Slidell (1951 Oak Harbor Boulevard, Slidell, Louisiana 70461; 985-771-7777), known for its beloved thin-fried catfish served in a casual waterfront setting.

For those seeking a true getaway, Lacombe is the place to enjoy quiet time in a natural setting. This is home to one of the most scenic sections of the Tammany Trace, a Hall of Fame rails-to-trails route that connects the communities of the Northshore. Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge (61389 Highway 434, Lacombe, Louisiana 70445; 985-882-2000) encompasses 15,000 acres of pine flatwoods, coastal marshes and other diverse habitats. It’s a birder’s paradise, with hundreds of native and migratory bird species. History buffs can explore the Bayou Lacombe Museum (61115 Saint Mary Street, Lacombe, Louisiana 70445), first opened in 1912 as a two-room schoolhouse. For a classic Lacombe feast, many choose Sal and Judy’s (27491 Highway 190, Lacombe, Louisiana 70445; 985-882-9443), where authentic Italian recipes bring authentic Creole flavor to the Northshore.

In Mandeville, the seawall walking path follows along the shores of Lake Pontchartrain. Majestic oaks and shaded benches invite visitors to take in the views. Those who want to ride the path and beyond can rent wheels from Brooks’ Bikes/Trikes & Beyond (128 Girod Street, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-789-5037), which also offers guided tours through historic Mandeville and Covington, brewery hops and off-the-beaten-path explorations along the Tammany Trace. Along the lakefront, The Barley Oak: Old World Draught Haus (2101 Lakeshore Drive, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-727-7420) serves up dozens of beers and pub fare, while Pat’s Rest Awhile (2129 Lakeshore Drive, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-951-2173) offers seafood and classic American entrées with Chef Pat Gallagher’s signature touch.

The historic homes along Mandeville’s Lakeshore Drive attest to the community’s roots, as does the nearby Dew Drop Jazz and Social Hall (430 Lamarque Street, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448). Built in 1895, it’s considered the oldest, virtually unaltered rural jazz hall in the country. Spring and fall concerts keep the music alive here and draw both locals and visitors. Old Mandeville also boasts an eclectic mix of shops, from the nostalgic The Candy Bank (201 Carroll Street, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-778-2750) and fine home décor at Arabella Interiors (3902 Highway 22, Mandeville, Louisiana 70471; 985-727-9787) to vinyl finds and more at 22 Sound Vinyl Records (5200 LA-22, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-792-7270).

Nearby Madisonville is a riverfront community where the Tchefuncte River meets Lake Pontchartrain. At the Maritime Museum Louisiana (133 Mabel Drive, Madisonville, Louisiana 70447; 985-845-9200), exhibits, boat models and hands-on educational programs (you can take a class on boat-building) celebrate the area’s nautical heritage. River tours by Tchefuncte River Charters (111 Madisonville, Louisiana 70447; 504-237-1029), offer family outings or party cruises (the pontoon is equipped with a bar, sound system and onboard restroom). For breakfast, Abita Roasting Company (504 Water Street, Madisonville, Louisiana 70447; 985-246-3340) serves locally roasted coffee with a riverside view, while dinner at Tchefuncte’s (407 St. Tammany Street, Madisonville, Louisiana 70447; 985-323-4800) is a fine-dining experience not to be missed.

Abita Springs, once a health retreat thanks to its artesian waters and fresh air, was a favorite getaway for those on the south side of Lake Pontchartrain and still provides a peaceful escape with walkable streets, lively downtown square and an inviting community. At the heart of town, the Tammany Trace trailhead meets the plaza just outside the Abita Brew Pub (72011 Holly Street, Abita Springs, Louisiana 70420; 985-892-5837)—the original home of Abita Beer. The pub serves house-brewed beer, burgers and more. Nearby, Abita Brewing Company (21084 Highway 36, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-893-3143) now ranks among the largest craft breweries in the Southeast. Guests can enjoy guided and self-guided tours and a taproom tasting. 

For a quirky stop, tour the Abita Mystery House (22275 Highway 36, Abita Springs, Louisiana 70420; 985-892-2624), a reimagined gas station and outbuildings that is now a fun house of sorts, created by artist John Preble. He’s assembled a staggering collection of art and nostalgic objects, classic arcade games and interactive dioramas of Southern life, all displayed among offbeat inventions and humorous signs, some of which you’ll find in the gift shop alongside Preble’s art prints, souvenirs, toys and more. 

Covington is a charming town known for its plentiful shopping and dining. The historic downtown features eclectic shops and fine art galleries. There’s the St. Tammany Art Association (320 North Columbia Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-892-8650), which hosts three galleries in its historic Art House, displaying members’ works along with solo and group shows, and each summer, a national juried exhibition. Renowned artists display their works at their own galleries, too, including the vibrant works at Marianne Angeli Rodriguez Gallery (323 North Columbia Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-238-0842) and the arresting monochrome pieces of Abby Sembera Art (434 North Columbia Street, Suite A, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-630-4140). 

Copper Rooster Antiques & Gifts (222 Lee Lane, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-892-5171) offers antique finds, and perhaps the most famous store in town, H.J. Smith & Sons General Store and Museum (308 North Columbia Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-892-0460), has been family-owned and -operated since 1876.

Dining is a special treat in Covington, which has quite a list of fine dining options. Lola (517 North New Hampshire Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-892-4992), with its husband-and-wife chef team, features award-winning, Louisiana-inspired dishes. Just down the street is a second spouse-chef team at Del Porto Ristorante (501 East Boston Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-875-1006), three-time James Beard Award nominees who serve a seasonal, farm-inspired menu at the upscale hot spot. Further down Boston street, Dakota Restaurant (310 East Boston Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-892-3712) features signature dishes like Lump Crabmeat and Brie Soup, Redfish Pontchartrain and Pan-Seared Duck Breast. 

Covington is also home to the stately Southern Hotel (428 East Boston Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-400-5657). Originally opened in 1907 to magnificent fanfare and restored in 2014, the Southern’s beautifully appointed, luxurious rooms offer a relaxing respite while inviting common spaces provide ample spaces to socialize, earning it the locals’ nickname, “Covington’s living room.” 

Across the Northshore, visitors can choose from charming bed & breakfasts, guest houses and vacation rentals with personality, or stay at familiar hotel chains offering familiar amenities along with excellent service. One-of-a-kind finds like the Abita Springs Hotel (22088 Ann O’Brien Lane, Abita Springs, Louisiana 70420; 985-951-4200) or a cabin on the water or campsite at Fontainebleau State Park (62883 Highway 1089, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-624-4443) round out the lodging options.

If you go

To truly enjoy the hometown experience, consider visiting one of the Northshore’s local farmers markets. The Abita Springs Art & Farmers Market is held every Sunday around the historic gazebo and features fresh seasonal produce, hand-made sauces, prepared food, baked goods, honey, boudin and more. 

Covington Farmers Market (609 North Columbia Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-966-1786) has vegetables, fruit, meats, wines, herbs, honey, baked goods, doggie treats, soaps and potted plants. And often, live music adds to the Saturday market fun. On Wednesdays, the Covington Trailhead (419 North New Hampshire Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-966-1786) is the spot to grab all the goodies, including produce and prepared lunches.

Mandeville Trailhead Community Market (675 Lafitte Street, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-624-3147) is held on Saturdays at the Mandeville Trailhead, where makers and farmers come together to sell their wares, which include handmade crafts, prepared foods, jellies and plants. Live music and pet adoptions are often part of the day’s features. Also on Saturday mornings, just steps away, is the indoor/outdoor Lafitte Street Market (725 Lafitte Street, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-960-2224), where patrons can shop for prepared foods, seasonal produce, organic beverages, coffees crafts and more. 

In Slidell, Saturday mornings in Olde Towne mean Camellia City Farmers Market (Griffith Park, 333 Erlanger Avenue, Slidell, Louisiana 70458; 985-640-7112) is spreading the love with local produce, prepared foods, seasonal citrus, baked goods, dog treats, Hawaiian jerky, coffee, arts and crafts, fresh cut flowers and more. Pretty little eggplants and yellow squash have that just-picked sheen; bundles of turnip, collard and mustard greens have crisp leaves and smell of the earth. Add live music while you’re shopping and taking in all the delicious aromas, and it’s a feast for the senses.

Saturday mornings also brings the Paddock Farmers Market at the Giddy Up Folsom (82292 LA-25, Folsom, Louisiana 70437; 985-705-1091) where visitors are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and enjoy the live music. Nearly 20 vendors rotate weekly, offering a wide variety of foods, body care items and fine art.

Pearl River Farmers Market & Craft Show (39437 Highway 41 Spur, Pearl River, Louisiana 70452; 504- 621-6237) is held on the first Saturday of the month and features more than 30 vendors offering fresh vegetables, fruits and artisan crafts.

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BLUE RIDGE, GEORGIA—APRIL 2025—It’s no secret that Blue Ridge, Georgia, remains one of the top places to live and visit, with its miles of hiking trails, trout streams, craft breweries and great shopping in its quaint downtown. Makes sense that Southern Living magazine would name it one of the “South’s Best Mountain Towns.”

Blue Ridge is also an entrepreneur’s haven, it’s small-town hospitality and commercial successes attracting young business creatives. Here are several movers and shakers who settled in Blue Ridge and found the business environment invigorating.

Yoga Over Blue Ridge

Kaitana Magno and Jimmy Sutherland lived a vibrant life in New York City, Kaitana working as a professional dancer, circus performer and Off-Broadway immersive theater director, writer and producer and Jimmy as a professional tap dancer, percussionist, composer and sound therapist.

The pandemic changed everything when the Big Apple shut down. That’s when Jimmy’s brother suggested they ride out the storm in Blue Ridge. 

“It was a big reset,” Sutherland said about leaving New York City and moving to Blue Ridge. “We came here and healed. It was the solace from the storm.”

The move also changed their lives. They saw an opportunity on East First Street and created a yoga studio, Yoga Over Blue Ridge, with classes in yoga, movement therapy and mindfulness, and host two-hour lunar events on the full and new moons. Sutherland’s specialty is sound therapy, what he calls a transformative power, connecting customers to frequencies, grounding movements, visualization and meditation.

“I tell people it’s internal cellular massage,” he said. “It’s like a guided meditation through sound.”

“This space is a huge blessing, changed our whole world,” said Magno. “Yoga is a path to healing and Blue Ridge has been a healing place for us.”

The couple works to transform lives through their services but they feel Blue Ridge has transformed them. 

“There’s something about this area,” Magno said. “It forces you to come back to yourself the way city life doesn’t.”

Blue Ridge is growing, they acknowledge, but it still owns a small-town, close-knit feel. 

“The town is blossoming but it’s still holding on to its soul,” Magno said.

(Yoga Over Blue Ridge, 3900 East First Street, Blue Ridge, Georgia, 30513; 917-723-8792)

Noontootla Creek Farms

The pandemic also changed the course of Emily Owenby’s life when it closed the University of North Georgia where she attended working on bachelor’s degrees in environmental science and business management. Since she also lost her job, she had to return to the family property her great grandfather Frank Owenby purchased as an executive fishing and hunting retreat in 1954. Today, Noontootla Creek Farms (NCF), about 30 minutes outside Blue Ridge, is a private farm operation and private hunting club. The business features four quail fields, two and a half miles of trophy trout streams and a sporting clays course that’s open to the public.

Owenby wanted to go into environmental conservation but found coming home to NCF provided just that opportunity. Her father, Greg Owenby, runs the business but Emily Owenby serves as operations coordinator on the 1,300-acre farm that includes The Mill restaurant, a pro shop and lodging. Since starting in 2020, the 24-year-old has instituted many conservation programs.

On the creek where trout swim, Owenby planted native trees and other plants to create a buffer zone between the water and the fields. This provides shade and encourages insects the trout feed on. In addition, the buffer helps keep the water pure.

“The whole goal is to do the best we can to keep the creek whole,” she said.

One of her favorite projects is the “small but mighty” greenhouse where she raises native plants such as pawpaw trees and milkweed to create future buffers between water sources and agriculture. 

Owenby also serves as a conservation consultant at the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce & CVB and is working on the Commitment to Conservation Program, which recognizes, awards and encourages local businesses in conservation efforts. 

Despite the abrupt change the pandemic caused Owenby, it landed her where she was needed most.

“It was definitely a good thing,” Owenby said. “Now, I don’t know what else I’d do.”

(Noontootla Creek Farms, 3668 Newport Road, Blue Ridge, Georgia, 30513; 706-838-0585)

Ascending Studio 

There are locals and then there’s Valerie Messer.

“I am Blue Ridgean as they come,” she said with a smile.

Messer’s Cherokee roots date back centuries, and her family has lived in the area since those early days. So, it seemed only natural that when Messer finished her service in the Air Force she would return to raise her son and open a gym.

“I knew what I wanted to do, something physical,” she said. 

But then she discovered Pilates, an exercise routine that incorporates special apparatus to improve physical strength and agility and enhance mental awareness. She opened Ascending Studio three years ago in the Willow Creek Falls Med Spa facility, the first Pilates studio in the area. She offers classes in both Pilates and yoga for all ages and every Tuesday hosts her “jam” class known as Buti Yoga, which mixes music with dance and yoga—even drums!

But it’s Pilates that Messer stresses makes a difference in a person’s body, whether they want to get fit or lose weight.

“I think everyone should do Pilates,” Messer said. “I love helping people improve their bodies.”

(Ascending Studio, 35 Trackside Lane, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513; 706-633-8977)

Soulhouse 

Like many Atlantans, Seth and Hope Loeb escaped to the North Georgia Mountains for peace and quiet away—although only a short drive—from the big city where the couple worked flipping houses. Hope had grown up in nearby Ellijay so they knew the area well and the couple were married there.

The Loebs bought a home in Cherry Log to renovate, but every time they made the drive they pondered why not just stay in Blue Ridge? 

“We thought, we don’t have to escape, we can live here,” Seth said. “The weekend getaway becomes your full-time reality.”

The couple had previously worked in the New York and Atlanta film industries, Hope as a makeup artist and Seth an actor. They used those talents, as well as their experience flipping houses to begin Soulhouse, an interior decorating and renovation design company. 

“Here, there’s a mindset of enjoyment so it lends itself to interior design,” Loeb said. “And I think people are looking for renovations instead of moving.”

The couple view home as a sanctuary, something they learned during the pandemic when they were homebound and renovated their home and created an outdoor space. They love incorporating the natural world and personal elements into spaces, such as the surfers and cowboys at Mountain Mama’s Coffee Lounge.

“It’s the idea of comfortability,” Seth said, adding that someone left a pair of shoes and they used that in the laid-back but hip design. “It’s that fun attention to detail. We want spaces to feel comfortable and not know why.”

The couple love their move to Blue Ridge, a small town they say allows ideas to breathe and develop, especially new creative businesses with small budgets. It helps that Blue Ridge is a safe environment to raise their children.

It’s a positive change from their early years in New York City.

“You don’t have to leave the state of Georgia to have a great experience,” Seth said. 

Mountain Mama’s Coffee Lounge

At 21, Moe Stephens had $500 and a backpack when she set off for Hawaii. But she found her niche working at an organic vegan café, then a coffee company where she learned everything about the popular caffeinated drink. She even traveled to the Pacific Northwest, London and Paris to learn the different types of coffee and how it’s farmed.

When covid hit, Stephens shipped her car from Hawaii to Los Angeles and toured the country for six months, sleeping in her van and visiting a number of national parks. When a friend contacted her to help start a café in Blue Ridge, she made the move with her husband, who she met at a coffee shop in Columbus, Ohio.

“My plan was to move on when I was done,” Stephens said of the Blue Ridge consulting job. 

“But we loved it here so much. I decided it was time to open my own café. I felt there was a need here for a community place that serves a quality product.”

Space emerged on the ground floor of the Blue Ridge Inn, but Mountain Mama’s Coffee Lounge became so popular the coffee shop needed to expand. A business on Main Street became available and within five weeks Stephens opened in her new space serving her premium coffee with house-made syrups and locally produced baked goods.

“People wait years and years for a storefront on Main Street and we lucked out,” she said. “We are so blessed.”

The space was designed by the Loebs’ company, Soulhouse, using Stephens’ idea of “70s coastal cowgirl meets Wes Anderson.” It’s an all-inclusive space, filled with friends’ photographs, family quotes and original artwork. 

“Every kind of person comes here and feels comfortable,” Stephens said. “And I think that’s a reflection of the town.”

(Mountain Mama’s Coffee Lounge, 771 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, Georgia, 30513)

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BLUE RIDGE, GEORGIA–OCTOBER 2024–Blue Ridge, Georgia, is known for apple orchards, trout fishing and more. It is one of those places that prompts glowing descriptions from visitors. Those descriptions, though true, are sometimes inadequate. This lovely mountain town, just a 90-minute drive north of Atlanta off Interstate-575, does seem a world away. Its vibrant downtown is nestled in a valley, surrounded by stunning mountain views. The people here are friendly and welcoming.

All true. But there is more here. While Blue Ridge has grown to be a popular vacation destination, it has retained its small-town character. That character is what draws people here and the fact that it is still prevalent is the result of the many locals who have chosen to stay here. These locals, and newcomers who have made this their home, are committed to preserving authentic culture and practices. Luckily, they are also committed to sharing them with visitors.

“We are fortunate to be the apple orchard that is in the little bucolic town of Blue Ridge, Georgia,” says Operations Manager Joe Foster of Mercier Orchards. “We feel very fortunate.” In its 81 years in business, Mercier’s has become a staple of the community and a very popular attraction for visitors. It began in 1943 when Bill and Adele Mercier purchased 25 acres of land. Bill was an agronomist and “the epitome of a grower,” according to Joe. He held a job replanting trees on the previously mined land of nearby Copper Hill, while also building his fledgling apple orchard.

Years later, his son Tim earned a horticulture degree and took over operations of the farm. Today, Mercier’s business remains a family affair, as Tim’s sons-in-law now run the business, with a bit of guidance and daily visits from him.

“He’s always around,” says Joe, who refers to himself as son-in-law #2. “His heart’s always in it. He’s just like his dad. He’s a farmer to the end. He’s never gonna not be planting or growing or doing something on the farm.”

Joe grew up nearby and has watched the changes and the growth of Blue Ridge. The popularity of the mountain town with visitors has translated into more business for him. “We’ve gotten to be successful along with the rest of Blue Ridge and we feel very fortunate for that. We always put ourselves in the context of Blue Ridge because it’s a metric for Mercier’s success.” That success is founded on a premise that is two-fold. 

“We want to stay true to who we are. We are an apple orchard,” Joe notes, while also remarking that they have been proactive in adding ways to engage visitors, offering them new experiences. To that end, they hold spring Apple Blossom Tours, and seasonal U-Pick opportunities for berries, peaches and more. “We just keep creating all these different parts of the business. The orchard is beautiful, a great setting to spend time with your family and pick some fruit, lay out in the grass – or not,” he adds with a smile. Beyond the orchard, there are other popular, and growing, areas of the business, as well. Most notable is the bakery, filled with staples, popular with locals and visitors all year long, and seasonal specialty items. Mercier fried pies have become one of the most popular products they offer. The classic apple pie is most popular, and features the cherished Adele Mercier family recipe. The three varieties of apple cider donuts made daily are favorites, too. Hard cider is the newest product offering. 

In every part of the business, it is clear everyone at Mercier is dedicated to honoring the family legacy. Linda in the retail store, who has worked here for 45 years, gives customers samples of varieties of apples, so they can learn to choose based on taste, not appearance. Ashley, a young horticulturalist new to the business, is bringing in creative methods of “harvesting light” in the orchard. Theresa, who gets to work with her son, who is also a Mercier employee, manages the production of 1.5 million fried pies a year. 

While there are thousands of types of apples, Mercier Orchards has about 50 varieties of trees on their 300-acre farm, focusing on the ones that grow best in their Appalachian soil and conditions. At The Folk Collaborative (2984 Mobile Road, McCaysville, Georgia 30555; 706-492-7753) in nearby McCaysville, Luke Dilbeck and his family are turning their focus to heritage apples in their 15-acre orchard on the 30 acres of land he grew up on. The orchard was started by his uncle six decades ago. In true collaborative fashion, Luke and Joe work together to support each other’s businesses, and their hometown, whenever opportunities arise.

“My first job was picking apples,” Luke says. “I grew up in the trees. We’re focusing on heritage apples that used to be found throughout Appalachia, getting rid of the super common ones, bringing in those old ones that may not be pretty but man they taste good.” They, too, are diversifying opportunities for visitor engagement as well as product offerings. Luke and his wife also operate an apothecary and bakery on the property, using home-grown and local products whenever they can. 

“Our long-term goal is to have something in bloom year-round. Still have apples but also blueberries and blackberries and rows of medicinal herbs and rows of elderberries; rows of culinary herbs and flowers. Getting away from a monoculture.” Many of those plants will make their way into baked goods, lunch menus in the bakery and supplements and tinctures in the apothecary.

”Mamaw was my inspiration,” Luke says of his grandmother, who taught him to use herbs and other local products. “She taught me about plants and medicinal herbs and what to do with them. We use something called the folkloric method. Because each year, you can make everything exactly the same. But how that plant grew that year determines its potency. It can change from year to year, from harvest to harvest. It’s a ‘feel’,” he says. “Just like the way Mamaw made her biscuits.”

In addition to the retail apothecary, Luke offers a variety of classes, nature walks and other opportunities. The bakery will pack visitors a picnic lunch to enjoy in the orchard, in honor of the tradition he remembers from his childhood, when his family would spend Saturdays in the orchard for fun.

Not all authentic experiences in Blue Ridge have local origins, but most have decidedly local inspiration. Renowned craftsman Bill Oyster found, when he moved to Georgia years ago, that the best trout fishing is in Blue Ridge. When his love of fishing led to an interest in making traditional bamboo fly rods, he found the process was a closely held secret. So, he set out to conquer the process on his own. To say he was successful would be an understatement. Now, at Oyster Fine Bamboo Fly Rods (494 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513; 706-374-4239), he willingly shares the craft with visitors who come for week-long classes. His traditional method starts with traditional materials.

“The type of bamboo that we’re using here,” Bill explains, “has the greatest tensile strength of all the species of bamboo, and I think there’s 127 different species. So, every bamboo rod since about 1900 started its life in the same old 30-square-mile bamboo patch. The craft began in the 1840s and has been going on ever since. And what I tell people is, this construction was invented in a time back when, if you bought a hammer you expected to pass that hammer on to your son someday, and he passed on to his. Nowadays, you go buy a miter saw and two years later you buy another one. It’s a disposable economy. These rods were literally designed to last for generations.

“You don’t have to know how to fly fish to come and make rods,” he says. “We have people without any interest, they just like the traditional nature of the craft. But most of the people have at least some interest in fly fishing, if they’re not fanatics about it.”

The classes are six full days and people come from all over the world to participate, some coming back again and again. Many, Bill says, find it to be a transformative experience from which they leave knowing more about themselves.

“They come just thinking ‘oh, I want a rod,’ and then they realize what was really cool about it was just sitting at a workbench making a thing with your own two hands. That’s what appeals to people. The old style. The old way of doing things.”

Those who choose to put those rods to use find some of the most pristine waterways in North Georgia, which has nearly 100 miles of trout streams. And there are local businesses that specialize in sharing this region’s beloved outdoor tradition. They include North Georgia Trout Fishing (5 Panter Street, McCaysville, Georgia 30555; 706-851-4001), where owner and guide Joe DiPietro holds the Toccoa River brown trout record. And Noontootla Creek Farms (3668 Newport Road, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513; 706-838-0585), where the fourth generation of the Owenby family is teaching fly fishing and preserving habitat surrounding their streams. They and other outfitters are inspired by and dedicated to their local natural resources.

That type of inspiration can be found on the downtown streets of Blue Ridge, too. Here, stores feature products and creations of local artists and entrepreneurs. One such shop is Canoe (624 A East Main Street, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513; 706-258-2999) where the hand-crafted handbags and oil and acrylic paintings of owner Lynn Kemp are on display. Her paintings, she says, are inspired by the seasons, featuring colors of the North Georgia landscape. Mountain Mama’s Coffee (771 East Main Street, A, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513) takes pride in its community-focused approach, which includes making all their own flavoring with locally sourced ingredients and serving baked goods from The Folk Collaborative’s bakery.

Whether it’s painting, making tinctures or picking apples, the love locals have for their home and its resources is just one more asset that sets Blue Ridge apart from other destinations. And it’s that love that is ensuring the appreciation of those resources continues for generations to come. That is no more evident than at Mercier Orchards, where the lifespan of an apple tree can be up to 45 years.

When Joe Foster talked to participants in Mercier’s first U-Plant event this year, he clearly saw that connection being made, as families came out to participate.

“These kids are planting a tree in the ground that they can bring their kids to pick one day, because these trees will probably be in the ground for 35 or 40 years. That’s big,” he concludes, “if you look at the longevity of this. I’ve got two little girls over here that are having a magical day. One they wouldn’t have otherwise had. They’re probably going to bring their kids here. That’s the fruit of your labor.”

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