Author Archives: Jit

Culinary Journey from America to Ireland

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with this traditional corned beef recipe from renowned Irish chef Judith McLoughlin, author of A Return to Ireland: A Culinary Journey from America to Ireland.

“Judith’s inspirational food and storytelling is very much part of this phenomenon that is calling the Irish diaspora home to Ireland to follow in the footsteps of their ancestors.” —Dr. Tim Campbell, director of the St. Patrick’s Center

Featuring over 100 recipes and gorgeous photos of Irish landscapes, A Return to Ireland will bring you on a culinary journey from the Irish-American immigrant recipes to the flavors of modern Ireland.

St. Patrick’s Colcannon & Corned Beef

Colcannon potatoes ingredients:
2½ lbs. potatoes (floury variety)
4 Tbsp. (¼ cup) milk
7 oz. curly kale (hard stalks removed)
8 spring onions (finely chopped)
1½ tsp. sea salt
¼ tsp. black pepper
4 oz. (1/2 cup) unsalted Irish butter
4 fl. oz. (½ cup) heavy whipping cream
4 fl. oz. (¼ cup) reserved cooking liquid from kale

Corned beef ingredients:
1½ lb. flat-cut brined corned beef
a little olive oil

Parsley cheese sauce ingredients:
2 oz. butter
2 oz. flour
½ pint (1 cup) whole milk
¼ pint (½ cup) chicken stock
1 oz.  (1/4 cup) Dubliner Irish cheese (grated)
1 tsp. Dijon mustard
handful of curly parsley (leafy part only and finely chopped)
curly parsley sprigs (for garnish)

Directions

1. To cook the brisket, it can be slowly boiled or baked in the oven. Low and slow is the key.  For the oven method, preheat the oven to 300°, then wrap up the brisket like a parcel inside a sheet of foil, fat side up.
2. Drizzle a little olive oil over and roast for 1 hour per pound, leaving 15 minutes for the meat to rest before carving.
3. To make the Colcannon, place the potatoes in a large pan of cold, salted water with milk, adding just enough water to cover the potatoes.
4. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until the potatoes are soft when pierced with a fork.
5. Drain the potatoes with a metal strainer then set the potatoes back on the warm stovetop to allow them to dry out a little.
6. In a large saucepan, bring some water to a roaring boil and blanch the kale for 1 minute.
7. Saving some of the cooking water, drain the kale, roughly chop, and place the kale in a blender, pulsing for a few seconds.
8. Melt the butter with the cream and ¼ cup of the retained cooking liquid from the kale. Infuse the spring onions, cooking for 30 seconds to soften.
9. Mash potatoes and slowly add the resulting liquid. Fold in the kale, salt, and pepper.
10. Prepare the parsley sauce by melting the butter in a small saucepan. Add the flour and allow to cook gently for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Whisk in the milk and chicken stock and bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes. Stir in the cheese and mustard and cook for 1 more minute. Season with salt and pepper and stir in chopped parsley.
11. To serve, spoon the potatoes onto a warm plate. Place slices of corned beef on top. Drizzle meat and dish with about 2 tbsp. of parsley sauce.
12. Garnish with a small sprig of curly parsley and serve immediately.

hp_judith.pngAbout the Author

Judith McLoughlin is an Irish chef and owner of a gourmet food business in Georgia called The Shamrock and Peach. Specializing in Irish cuisine, Judith has created her own unique food fusion by blending the techniques of her homeland with the newfound flavors of the South. Growing up in County Armagh in Northern Ireland and setting down roots in the South, over the past decade Judith has become one of the most recognized Irish faces and brands in Atlanta, throughout the American South and abroad. She regularly contributes to food columns in national newspapers and magazines on both sides of the Atlantic and leads numerous discovery tours from the U.S. to Ireland each year. Before A Return to Ireland, she published a cookbook entitled The Shamrock and Peach.

# # #

A Return to Ireland
Written by Judith McLoughlin
978-1-57826-935-8, $30.00 hardcover
978-1-57826-936-5, $12.99 eBook

Published by Hatherleigh Press.
Distributed through Penguin Random House.
Available wherever books are sold.
www.hatherleighpress.com

Unparalleled Access to the Thrill of F1®


NORTH AMERICA’S LARGEST IMMERSIVE F1® FAN EXPERIENCE DEBUTS
AT LAS VEGAS’ GRAND PRIX PLAZA MARCH 29

​​Unparalleled Access to the Thrill of F1® Via Three Ticketed Attractions Including F1® X, F1® DRIVE and F1® HUB

Tickets on Sale March 6 at 10am PST.

Special Rates for Locals, Children, Seniors and Military

 Don’t miss out! Sign up for Exclusive Presale Access at GrandPrixPlaza.com  

LAS VEGAS (February 27, 2025) – North America’s largest and most dynamic Formula 1® attraction is racing into Las Vegas on March 29, 2025. In partnership with Round Room Live, this high-octane destination will be set within the 39-acre Grand Prix Plaza, featuring more than 100,000 square feet of adrenaline-fueled entertainment throughout most of the year across three ticketed F1® attractions. Guests can sign up for pre-sale access at grandprixplaza.com

Grand Prix Plaza, home to the state-of-the-art Las Vegas Grand Prix Pit Building, will open to the public for the first time, inviting fans to experience three new F1 attractions:

  • F1® X: The interactive Formula 1 experience offers guests a tech-driven journey through a cutting-edge 4D exhibition with legendary artifacts, iconic F1 cars and hands-on activities where visitors can design their own virtual F1 car and put it to the test on the virtual track.
  • F1® DRIVE: This official F1 karting attraction takes place on part of the Las Vegas Strip Circuit™ grid where guests can experience the speed, sights and sounds of Formula 1 in high-performance karts with F1-inspired features including an LED steering wheel display and DRS technology.
  • F1® HUB: The Hub is the heart of Grand Prix Plaza and features F1 SIMS, a flagship F1 store and elevated food and beverage offerings.

Click here for renderings of Grand Prix Plaza

“Grand Prix Plaza represents a significant investment in the future of Formula 1 in Las Vegas,” said Emily Prazer, President and CEO of Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc. and Chief Commercial Officer for Formula 1. “These new attractions will offer unprecedented access to F1, giving many fans their first up-close look at a Formula 1 car before stepping into a racing simulator or even karting on a portion of the Las Vegas Strip Circuit. As part of our steadfast commitment to Las Vegas, we are thrilled to offer significantly discounted pricing to locals so that Grand Prix Plaza is an easily accessible community asset all year long. Grand Prix Plaza is one of the jewels of F1 in North America, and we know it will provide access and experiences that will grow the sport’s fan base.”

Jonathan Linden, Co-CEO of Round Room Live and Producer of The Formula 1® Exhibition, said, “These new experiences are as close to an F1 race one can get without being a professional driver. This is the largest-scale F1 exhibition we’ve debuted in North America, and there was no better place to do it than the home of the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the grid, this is an inside look at what makes F1 a global phenomenon – with plenty of thrills along the way.”

Each experience will be individually ticketed and can be pre-purchased at grandprixplaza.com or bought on-site.

INSIDE THE GRAND PRIX PLAZA EXPERIENCE

  • F1® X: An interactive journey into the world of Formula 1 where guests of all ages can explore the cutting edge of innovation, teamwork and competition – all from the driver’s seat.
    • LEARN: First, guests will step into Becoming F1, a holographic experience that immerses them into the lives of car designers, engineers, analysts, pit crew members and drivers showcasing the teamwork and precision behind the sport. Then, they can explore 75 Years of Formula 1, an exclusive exhibition curated for the Grand Prix Plaza featuring rare artifacts, legendary cars, championship-winning gear and groundbreaking innovations that have shaped the sport from 1950 to today. Finally, they’ll visit the F1 Factory for a behind-the-scenes look at F1’s fastest machines, complete with never-before-seen artifacts and interactive displays.
    • CREATE: Visitors will build their own F1 team and race car with a first-of-its-kind interactive Paddock Pass. After creating personal avatars, they’ll team up with friends to choose the name, colors and logo for their group’s official F1 team. In the Design Studio, they’ll bring their vision to life using a cutting-edge digital workshop, designing a custom Formula 1 car that will seamlessly integrate into the F1 X simulation and hit the track.
    • EXPERIENCE: Finally, fans will put their skills to the test with hands-on racing challenges. This includes the Pit Wall Challenge, designed to replicate a Grand Prix Pit Wall, where guests make real-time race decisions on tire changes, pit stops and team tactics in a high-tech simulation. Next, they’ll take on the Pit Stop Duel, working as an elite crew to execute a lightning-fast tire change using real-world tools. Finally, the Formula 1 4D Driving Theatre puts them in the driver’s seat as they race the Las Vegas Strip Circuit in their custom-designed F1 car. The immersive simulation features authentic F1 training seats, hyper-realistic visuals, and visceral effects like wind, vibrations and the scent of burning rubber.

Open to all ages, adult prices start at $79.00. Locals price is $59.00.

  • F1® DRIVE: Located on level one within the Las Vegas Grand Prix Pit Building team garages, F1® Drive lets guests live their race-day dreams with F1-inspired karting:
    • Drive with up to 20 competing karts on a 1,650-foot track featuring 31 turns – ranging from hairpin to chicane – neon-lit straights and technical challenges on part of the Las Vegas Strip Circuit grid.
    • Slide into the cockpit of a high-performance kart designed to deliver the most authentic Formula 1 experience possible. Feel the roar of realistic engine sounds from previous races and receive live team radio updates from a virtual Race Engineer on track status, lap insights and overtaking strategies. Karts also are equipped with a Drag Reduction System (DRS) and Energy Recovery System (ERS) controlled by genuine F1 DRS logic and Boost Buttons, as well as an advanced LED steering display.
    • Celebrate victory on the Winner’s Podium with an epic photo op.

Ages 12 and up, adult prices start at $37.00. Locals price starts at $30.00.

  • F1® HUB: Step into the F1 HUB, the heartbeat of the Las Vegas Grand Prix and the ultimate launch point for an F1 adventure. The F1 store and Fuel & Fork will be open to all guests without the need to purchase a ticket.
    • F1® SIMS: Experience the power and precision of an F1 car with state-of-the-art racing simulators developed in collaboration with a leading F1 simulator expert. These high-tech rigs combine motion technology with immersive audio-visual effects, putting fans in the cockpit for a true-to-life racing experience.                                                                                                                                                                                Ages 12 and up, adult prices start at $26.50
    • Flagship F1 Store: Designed to emulate an F1 garage, the space will showcase an expansive selection of official F1 gear, exclusive Las Vegas Grand Prix collectibles and customizable merchandise.
      Locals receive a 10% discount on merchandise. 
    • Fuel & Fork: Guests can refuel at F1 HUB’s sleek dining space, serving elevated-yet-approachable dishes like pizza, burgers, entrées and desserts. Sip on cocktails and premium beverages while watching legendary race moments on large-format screens that keep the adrenaline pumping.

Grand Prix Plaza will open Sunday to Thursday from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. and 10 a.m. – midnight Friday and Saturday. Flexible event spaces with access to these attractions are available across the building’s three levels and rooftop, including three new private event spaces – Turn 1 Lounge, Cool Down Room and GPP Garage – that will be available to rent year-round.

To sign up for updates and presale access, fans can register at www.grandprixplaza.com to be among the first to secure their entry to F1® X, F1® DRIVE, and/or F1® HUB.  Special rates for locals, children, seniors and military personnel will be available for F1® X and F1® DRIVE.

The attraction will close for the season in late summer to prepare for the Las Vegas Grand Prix, with a future reopening date to be announced. 

###

About Grand Prix Plaza
Grand Prix Plaza is a multi-use complex and year-round destination for private events. The 39-acre property houses the state-of-the-art Las Vegas Grand Prix Pit Building and is known as the “Home of the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX.” Opening March 29, Grand Prix Plaza will debut three new immersive experiences including F1® DRIVE, F1® X and F1® HUB, as well as three new private event spaces: Turn 1 Lounge, Cool Down Room, and GPP Garage. For more information, visit www.grandprixplaza.com.

About Round Room Live
Round Room Live is a global leader in producing and promoting immersive exhibitions, transforming iconic intellectual properties into expansive, interactive experiences that engage audiences worldwide. With installations in major cities around the world, Round Room Live delivers high-quality, large-scale exhibitions that captivate and inspire.  The company’s Immersive and Entertainment Experiences division has produced, managed and/or toured celebrated exhibits with brands such as The Rolling Stones, Tupac Shakur., Jurassic World, Mandela, and is the lead producer of Formula 1®: The Exhibition. 

Formula 1®: The Exhibition offers an unparalleled exploration of the sport’s rich history, present-day charms, and future innovations. This acclaimed immersive experience provides unprecedented access to iconic Formula 1® racecars, rare artifacts, and exclusive footage. 

How does Shrimp survive? NU knows!

Northwestern Now

research & innovation
February 26, 2025
Good morning! Welcome back to our monthly newsletter highlighting the latest research happening all around us here at Northwestern.

In this issue, we’re covering shrimp that pack a punch, a sponge that slurps up pollutants and a black hole putting on an impressive display.

And, as always, we’d love to hear from you: Reach out if you have feedback or a news tip for a future issue.

mantis shrimp

How mantis shrimp survive the explosive power of their tiny fists

Known for their powerful punch, mantis shrimp can smash a shell with the force of a .22 caliber bullet. Yet, amazingly, these tough critters remain intact despite the intense shockwaves created by their own strikes.

Northwestern researchers have discovered how mantis shrimp remain impervious to their own punches: Their fists, or dactyl clubs, are covered in layered patterns, which selectively filter out sound. By blocking specific vibrations, the patterns act like a shield against self-generated shockwaves.

Read more about the crustaceans’ incredible clubs.

Sponge

This sponge soaks up pollutants but saves valuable minerals

Northwestern researchers have developed a sponge that slurps up pollutants, offering a reusable and cost-effective solution to water contamination while giving valuable resources a second life. Read more.
Ukrainian soldier

New paths for alleviating pain, from the battlefield to home

A Northwestern Medicine study followed 74 Ukrainians who had undergone traumatic limb amputations due to war injuries to investigate a new way to treat post-amputation pain. It found that a simple procedure called hydrodissection could reduce residual limb pain and opioid dependence. 

Feinberg’s Dr. Steven Cohen, who led the study, also recently offered his take on the new pain medication Journavx, an alternative to opioid medications that doesn’t carry the typical risk of addiction.

More top news

• Cancer: Northwestern researchers have discovered a new way to potentially treat cancer by targeting and removing harmful proteins from cells.

• TechnologySynthetic neurons that bridge the gap between biology and technology open the door for more intelligent robots.

• Medicine: A microbial therapy could one day offer a new treatment to millions affected by the autoimmune disease vitiligo, according to a Northwestern study.

• Innovation: Northwestern physicists propose a way to maintain communications in a quantum network by strategically rebuilding disappearing connections.

• Heart health: Northwestern Medicine researchers have revealed a path to helping damaged hearts heal, inspired by the immune systems of newborns.

A galactic light show
Black hole flares
Using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, a Northwestern-led team of astrophysicists has found that the Milky Way’s central black hole is putting on a constant, rapid-fire light show.
Most people think of juicing as a healthy cleanse, but this study offers a reality check.”
Feinberg’s Dr. Melinda Ring on a study that finds juicing may have harmful effects in just three days
Northwestern University
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Holistic Chamber of Commerce Upcoming Events

In today’s featured article, HCC member Dotty Scott talks about how using certain colors on your website can boost engagement and sales. However, color theory can be applied to all different facets of life: home decor, your wardrobe, the food on your plate, what you sell in your Etsy craft store, etc.

So even if you don’t have a website, check out this informational article on what colors energetically attract what.

Website Color Theory Can Boost Your Website’s Engagement and Sales

By: Dotty Scott

From Pennies to Prosperity: The Journey to

Financial Freedom

with Evie Diaz

Join us Friday for this HCC YouTube channel livestream member spotlight with Evie Diaz! She will be sharing some ways we can create financial freedom.

Can’t make it live? No worries. The replay will be available after the broadcast on YouTube, the HCC Members-Only FB group, and the HCC FB page.

Party Indoors in Panama City Beach

From the Desk of Lak Vohra, Editor of PartyDigest.com:

I wanna give thanks to the Lady Entrepreneurs of Panama City Girls who like to take the party indoors for the sake of another business – thanks for taking one for the team ladies! We love you and can’t wait to make a special cigar just for you! Playboy TV is watching you!

Each year, millions of people visit the Panama City Beach area of the Sunshine State. They are mainly coming to do all the splendid things that nature provides along the Gulf of Mexico, but they also seek out additional activities to help balance the trip. Most visitors will not end up spending all day outdoors, especially as the weather heats up and tropical storms roll in. The good news is that there are plenty of things people can do when visiting the area to help create a comfortable balance for all ages.

“We have a lot of amazing things happening at Wonderworks, and we are glad that so many people think of us when they are ready for indoor fun,” said Darren Grooms, general manager at WonderWorks Panama City Beach. “Whether you want to plan your day around an exciting adventure here at the upside-down house or add it to your itinerary when an indoor break is needed, we are ready for all visitors.”

The Panama City Beach area is filled with so many fun activities for families to explore that it’s a good idea to know ahead of time some of the options to add to your itinerary. Here is a list of things to consider doing when visiting the area so there’s a balance of fun, memories, and ways to keep cool:

Indoor activities. It is imperative that everyone visiting the area have at least one indoor activity in mind because they are likely to want and need it. Kids especially will need a break from the sun and heat, making an indoor activity ideal. WonderWorks Panama City Beach is the top indoor destination for fun, learning, and hands-on activities that people will not want to miss. Explore four floors of exhibits and attractions that are sure to spark the imagination.

Beach time. No trip to the Florida Panhandle would be complete without spending time at the beach. Grab some snacks and sunscreen and hit the beach. Those looking for a pro tip will want to go to the beach in the evening when the sun goes down. It creates the most pleasant and unexpected experience. Those who wish to stay after sunset can plan a bonfire on the beach in designated areas for a unique way to wrap up the day.

Water Sports. There are plenty of water sports to consider, with something for all families. Options abound, including jet skiing, boating, fishing, dolphin tours, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. Whether doing these with a local guide or heading out alone, plenty of fun awaits in the refreshing Florida water.

Cool Springs. Those looking to cool off and keep it outdoors will want to plan a stop at a nearby spring. Florida is home to more fresh springs than any other place in the world. The springs stay cool all year, around 72 degrees Fahrenheit, and remain crystal clear. Check out Williford Springs, Cypress Spring, Morrison Spring, or Vortex Spring for the coolest outdoor activity around.

State Parks. Some great state parks in the area provide ample opportunity for fun in the sun. Don’t miss Saint Andrew State Park or Camp Helen State Park; both offer beach activities and other nature exploration opportunities.

“Spend some time at the beach in the morning and when it heats up and you’ve had enough, come inside WonderWorks for a fantastic afternoon of adventure,” said Amanda Hinzman, sales manager at WonderWorks Panama City Beach. “We provide the best indoor fun for families because there’s truly something for everyone.”

WonderWorks Panama City Beach offers fun and educational opportunities all year long. They include laser tag, a ropes course, the Xtreme 360 Bikes, other physical challenges, a virtual reality Grave Digger monster truck ride, the Bubble Lab, extreme weather experiences, a look at space discovery, illusion art, and much more. There are also team bonding activities for groups such as field trips, sports teams, bus tours, student activities excursions, etc. Advanced registration is required to receive a discounted group rate, which can be made online at: https://www.wonderworksonline.com/panama-city-beach/groups/.

Junior League of Jax Free Event

Partydigest.com has been an integral part of Junior Leagues around the US promoting and partnering with them over 30 years – be in in Georgetown in DC ir the gorgeous mansion in Manhattan or in St Augustine FL. When this came across our desk we said sure why not let’s promote it! It’s not everyday the Junior League does s free event

Save the Date! Join the Junior League of Jacksonville a week from today, on Tuesday, March 4th for a free, open-to-the-public event kicking off #WomensHistoryMonth. The esteemed panel (including James Weldon Johnson Park’s Executive Director, Liz McCoy 💙) will discuss the importance of Women in Jacksonville’s history and the vital role of women in leadership today.

Visit https://tinyurl.com/WIHALJuniorLeagueJax so you can save your seat today!

Oscars & Cigars – Hosted by #HamptonsHavana, Sun 3-2

Event by HamptonsHavana
Come join us for a fabulous evening at our Oscars Viewing Party & Cigars event! Grab your friends and head over to 12793 Josslyn Ln for a night of glitz, glamour, and cigars.
Watch the stars walk the red carpet on the big screen while enjoying a fine selection of cigars. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Hollywood’s biggest night with fellow movie buffs. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!
We will have a 90 inch TV screen in one room and flat screen TVs throughout the house to watch and enjoy.
We will serve Johnny Walker tastings throughout the night and you will receive 2 Sag Harbor Enigma Segars and 2 Private Label Cigars from our factory in the Dominican Republic.
Parking is limited please take uber as you will be drinking. Smoking in outdoor patio only weather permitting or take your cigars home and enjoy the Oscars with new friends!
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/oscars-viewing-party-cigars-tickets-1219546007939

Jacksonville Jazz Festival

Duration: 4 days
Public Anyone on or off Facebook
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival is back for Memorial Day Weekend in Downtown Jacksonville, Florida • May 22 – 25, 2025!
For over 40 years, this festival has united music enthusiasts for a weekend of food, drinks, community, and, of course, music performed by some of your favorite artists! Join us for a weekend kickoff with the Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition presented by Yamaha on Thursday, followed by three days of free, live music on our Met Park Stage presented by Publix.
Stay tuned for updates on the Jacksonville Jazz Festival social media channels and at jacksonvillejazzfest.com.
Follow us on Instagram and X (Twitter): @JaxJazzFest

St Paddy’s Day, 3-14, 5:30-8:30 PM

Sesquicentennial Park – Springfield
Duration: 3 hr
Public Anyone on or off Facebook
Mark your calendars for Friday, March 14 for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration, Historic Springfield-style!
We are excited to welcome Jacksonville Pipes & Drums back to Historic Springfield to kick things off for us at 5:30 PM in Sesquicentennial Park, followed by Irish band A Fine Kettle of Fish taking the stage at 6:00 PM.
Bring chairs or a blanket and enjoy a picnic dinner from local food trucks, and grab a beer from the SPAR Bar. Food and drink purchases begin at 5:30 PM. Be sure to stop by the SPAR tent for some fun activities for the littlest leprechauns, and a 50/50 raffle!
This event is FREE and family-friendly – and a perfect way to kick off your St. Patrick’s Day weekend!
THANK YOU to our sponsors and partners for making this event possible: presenting sponsor Terrawise Homes, M&M Homes and UF Health Jacksonville.

See less

TravMedia Meets: Behind the Scenes with AAA & ACE

On Thursday, March 6, at 4:00 PM EDT, TravMedia invites you to our latest webinar series, TravMedia Meets: Behind the Scenes with AAA & ACE.

For more than a century, the American Automobile Association (AAA) has inspired members with captivating travel, automotive, and lifestyle content.

Today, Auto Club Enterprises (ACE), the largest AAA club, reaches more than 9.8 million households across 21 states with the quarterly Westways and AAA Explorer magazines, weekly Traveling with AAA podcast, monthly email newsletters, and online coverage.

From savvy travel advice to deep dives on fascinating destinations around the world, ACE’s content is the most used AAA source for obtaining travel and leisure info by members.

TravMedia Meets will take you behind the scenes with AAA & ACE, discussing their editorial structure, content focus, and collaboration opportunities.

​​​​Please join us for an exclusive conversation with the team that brings you AAA & ACE.

Sincerely,

Kim Grant, SATW, ASJA
Global Media Director
TravMedia
E: kim.grant@travmedia.com
M: +1 617-901-9628
W: www.travmedia.com

REGISTER NOW

Raise a Glass to Southern Hospitality

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COCKTAILS, SOUTHERN STYLE: Pours, Drinks, Sips, and Bites
By Belinda Smith-Sullivan
Gibbs Smith / March 2025
Hardcover / $21.99
ISBN: 9781423666059
For Media Inquiries, review copies and to schedule an interview, contact:
Trina Kaye – The Trina Kaye Organization
TrinaKaye@tkopr.com / 310-963-3964
Raise a Glass to Southern Hospitality – A New Cocktail Book Celebrates the Art of Mixing Drinks with a Southern Flair
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Get ready to sip, savor, and celebrate with the ultimate guide to Southern-inspired cocktails and entertaining! COCKTAILS, SOUTHERN STYLE: Pours, Drinks, Sips, and Bites by renowned chef Belinda Smith-Sullivan, brings together approximately 90 recipes for classic cocktails, innovative flavor-profile drinks, and a bonus chapter packed with delectable nibbles to pair with your beverages. The book is a toast to the unmatched charm of Southern hospitality, where no drink is ever served without a perfectly paired treat.
COCKTAILS, SOUTHERN STYLE offers a wide variety of recipes to suit all tastes for any occasion. Whether hosting a lively celebration, enjoying a leisurely brunch, or relaxing on the porch with friends, COCKTAILS, SOUTHERN STYLE provide the perfect drink to elevate the moment. Categories include:
Celebration Cocktails: Perfect for toasts and festivities.
Brunch Favorites: Start your day with a Southern twist.
Afternoon Porch Sippers: Relax with refreshing classics.
            Five O’Clock Somewhere: Timeless drinks with modern updates.
            Spritzes, Smashes, and Farts: Vibrant and effervescent creations.
            Shandies and Beer Cocktails: Unique spins on familiar favorites.
            Mocktails and Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Fun, flavorful options for everyone.
Some of the drinks found in the book include:
  • Swamp Water
  • Tennessee Iced Tea
  • Southern Belle Martini
  • Ginger Shandy
  • Mississippi Bourbon Punch
In addition to delightful drinks, Smith-Sullivan includes recipes for infused vodkas, simple syrups, and an in-depth look at the structure of a cocktail, complete with techniques and equipment tips to elevate your bartending skills.
But no Southern soiree is complete without snacks! The bonus chapter features mouthwatering recipes for Mini Hot Browns, Pimento Cheese and Tomato Sliders, Sausage Roll Poppers, and Crab Hush Puppies—ensuring your guests have plenty of delicious bites to accompany their drinks.
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“This book isn’t just a collection of cocktail recipes; it’s a celebration of Southern culture and hospitality,” says Smith-Sullivan. “Every drink and dish are crafted to bring people together, spark joy, and create unforgettable moments.”
 BELINDA SMITH-SULLIVAN is a chef, food writer, spice blends entrepreneur, and a commercially rated pilot. She has a culinary arts degree from Johnson & Wales University and writes a monthly column for South Carolina Living magazine. She also is featured on South Carolina Living’s website with monthly how-to videos. Smith-Sullivan is an active member of the Southern Foodways Alliance, International Association of Culinary Professionals, American Culinary Federation, and Les Dames d’Escoffier. She lives in Winston-Salem, NC.
Try this delicious sip of Southern hospitality.
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CIDER SIDECAR
This recipe takes the traditional sidecar combination of cognac, Cointreau, and lemon and adds one of the South’s favorite nonalcoholic beverages to the mix. Apple cider just turned into a grown-up treat.
SERVES 1
2 ounces fresh apple cider
2 ounces cognac
1 ounce Cointreau
1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
Lemon twists, for rimming and garnish
Granulated sugar, for rimming
Apple wheels (optional)
GLASS: champagne coupe
Pour the cider, cognac, Cointreau, and lemon juice into a shaker, and top with ice.
Shake until very chilled. Rub the rim of the glass with a piece of lemon zest, then dip the rim of the glass into the sugar.
Strain the cocktail into the coupe and garnish with lemon twist and apple wheels (if using).
Recipe and photo may be reprinted with the following credit:
Recipe and photo reprinted with permission from Cocktails, Southern Style by Belinda Smith-Sullivan, Gibbs Smith March 2025

Discover Family Fun in Syracuse

Located just a handful of hours from New York City, Central New York is filled with hidden gems. Visitors and locals alike are able to enjoy world-famous waterfalls, state parks, exciting attractions, and the bustling city of Syracuse at the heart of it all. Once people learn of all the unique things to do in the Syracuse area, they can’t resist adding them to their New York itinerary. Family fun awaits around every corner, so it’s a good idea to start planning your next vacation or stay-cation.

 

“There are so many great activities to do in this area!” said Jon Cascella, general manager at WonderWorks Destiny. “We are thrilled to be one of the places many consider a local gem. It’s great to plan lots of activities, but being able to add one like WonderWorks that provides a fun indoor place for the family is gold.”

 

Those planning a visit to the area will want to consider these family fun activities that are locally renowned:

  • WonderWorks. This is a must-do for all families and STEM fans. The indoor amusement park for the mind features activities and hands-on exhibits that everyone will love. With over 100 hands-on exhibits and the World’s Largest Suspended Indoor Ropes Course, families will stay busy for hours learning and laughing. Challenge each other on the Canyon Climb, check out the Extreme Weather Zone, learn about sound and light, and step into simulators like the Wonder Coasters and 4D XD Motion Theater. WonderWorks is conveniently located inside Destiny USA, New York’s largest shopping, dining, and entertainment destination.
  • Rosamond Gifford Zoo. What family wouldn’t love a day at the zoo? Check out the indoor and outdoor exhibits, visit the many animals, and more. There is much to explore here, including wildlife trails, an elephant preserve, a wide variety of animals, and a café to grab lunch. The zoo hosts many exciting events throughout the year including runs, educational talks, and the popular Brew at the Zoo.
  • Onondaga Lake Park. Spend some time outdoors at this beautiful park that features over eight miles of trails. There’s also a concrete area open to inline skaters, skateboarders, and BMX bikers, multiple playgrounds, bike rentals, and more. Plenty of fun for everyone can be found here, so be sure to take a camera because there are some excellent photo opportunities. Plus, you won’t want to miss Onondaga Lake Park’s annual Lights on the Lake drive-through, one of Central New York’s favorite holiday traditions.
  • Local Museums. It’s always nice to expand one’s horizons by checking out a local museum. Be sure to stop by the Everson Museum of Art to see the permanent and temporary collections and possibly take in some of their special events. There are over 11,000 works of art to explore.
  • Quirky Stops. Some quirky little stops help make a trip more interesting, such as the 24-second shot clock marker in Armory Square. The clock honors the rule change in basketball that is said to have saved the National Basketball Association. While visiting that one, several other historical markers are within walking distance, including the banks of the Erie Canal. Syracuse is also home to the world’s only upside-down traffic light, where the green light is on top and the red light is on the bottom.

“Family fun abounds in this area of the state,” said Paige Perry, sales manager at WonderWorks Destiny. “Plan a whole day of playing, making memories, and exploring. Have a great itinerary, but keep a little time open just in case something unexpected pops up!”

 

There are many exciting improvements and additions on the horizon for the city of Syracuse, from the I-81 Viaduct Project to the development of a brand-new aquarium. So, whether you live there or are planning a vacation to beautiful Central New York, Syracuse is the place to be.

 

WonderWorks Destiny is a proud provider of educational programs and promotions throughout the year for local students and families to enjoy. It also offers group rates, birthday parties, scout weekends, homeschool days, and corporate event packages. For more information, visit the site at: https://www.wonderworksonline.com/destiny.

 

About WonderWorks

WonderWorks, a science-focused indoor amusement park, combines education and entertainment into one venue. With over 100 hands-on exhibits, there is something unique and challenging for all ages. Feel the power of 71 mph hurricane-force winds in the Hurricane Shack. Make life-sized bubbles in the Bubble Lab. Get the NASA treatment and experience zero gravity in the Astronaut Training Gyro. Nail it by lying on the death-defying Bed of Nails. WonderWorks is in Orlando, Pigeon Forge, Panama City Beach, Myrtle Beach, Syracuse, and Branson. Visit WonderWorksonline.com/destiny and follow @WonderWorksDestiny on Facebook, @WonderWorksDUSA on Twitter, and @WonderWorks_dusa on Instagram.