‘Farm Fresh Georgia’ joins the family

201403_01_Farm Fresh GeorgiaI’m very excited to announce the arrival of “Farm Fresh Georgia,” another sister book, after Tennessee. This one has a North Carolina component — it was researched and written by Charlotte journalist and travel writer Jodi Helmer.

Jodi is as enthused as I am about travel, sustainable agriculture, rural living, and good eating. Her book delves into all those topics and more. Like mine was, it’s the first of its kind for its state and includes a tour of almost 400 farms and farm-related attractions, all open to the public and vetted by Jodi.

The book is organized by six state regions covering 90 of the state’s 159 counties. Nine categories of attractions include farms, farmers’ markets, orchards, farm stands and U-picks, dairies, wineries, farm-to-table restaurants and lodging. I just randomly chose a lodging section in the table of contents and came to The Farmhouse Inn at 100 Acre Farm in Madison, between Atlanta and Augusta. What a find! A large working farm with animals, a nice inn, activities for the family. Thanks, Jodi! From there I stumbled upon Alligator Soul restaurant in Savannah, “a who’s who of Georgia Farmers. Even the cocktails have local flair.” I’m adding that to my list too!

201403_03_Jodi Helmer

Author Jodi Helmer (photo: Lindsay Wynne Hess)

And let’s not forget the 13 recipes Jodi collected from chefs and farmers. On facing pages, I found two of my favorites in the book, Apple Crudo from Sean Wight at Frog Hollow Tavern in Augusta, and Brown Sugar Bacon popcorn from Sue-Anna Dowdy Maley at the Orchards at Atwell Pecan — the perfect starter and finisher.

OK, y’all, let’s show Jodi some love by buying her book. It’s hot off the press from UNC Press and costs $22.

Jodi, welcome to the “Farm Fresh” family! We’re glad you’re here.

 

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