Life at Southern Living

Southern Living, Jun 1996 by Floyd, John Alex Jr

Dear Friend,

If you are like me, seeing something can trigger happy memories. This is the case with so many of our features this month that I can't help but call this my special-memory issue. For example, our story "Golden Oldies" (page 114), by Assistant Foods Editor Denise Gee and Senior Photographer Charles Walton, salutes four great restaurants across the South that are legendary torchbearers of good food. I personally have had dinner at three of the four. The one that I recall most vividly is Joe's Stone Crab. I had been invited to be one of the first guests at the Mayfair House hotel in Coconut Grove, and we went to Joe's for dinner. I had never eaten a stone crab, but after I tasted the ones at Joe's, they quickly became a favorite. Since that time, the restaurant is a "must-visit" place when I am in Miami Beach. I'll bet you have a must-visit restaurant you would like to share with us. Let me know so we can try it too.

In 1996, impressions of the South will be ingrained in the minds of folks all over the world because of the Olympic Games. As we draw closer to opening day, Features Editor Carolanne Griffith Roberts couldn't resist doing a little snooping to find out about the Opening and Closing Ceremonies. In her recent interview with producer Don Mischer, she got a hint of how he envisions these exciting events. Their dialogue starts on page 46. This will be one of Carolanne's most memorable interviews as she watches the ceremonies unfold.

And I hope our Foods story "Split Decisions" stirs your memory. When Assistant Foods Editor Andria Hurst asked the staff to share memories of their first banana split, mine came easily. It was at the local drugstore soda fountain in my hometown. Andria's story on page 158 may show you a twist or two on this sweet summer favorite.

Remembering good times is so much a part of our South today. I hope this issue will help you recall a good memory or, better yet, create one. Best regards,