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Dear Friend,

Weekends in the fall are just about my favorite time of the year. As cooler weather starts to creep in with September, I naturally think of doing seasonal things, such as attending my alma mater's football games, planting my fall vegetables (you know, turnips, lettuce, broccoli, greens, and such), celebrating harvest at our church, and sneaking away with Pam. This month, I think, our issue touches on all of those thoughts and more.

One special weekend trip I am planning with Pam is to Charleston, South Carolina, starting on Thursday, October 5. That's when we host this year's Southern Living Cook-Off 2006, an evening of pure fun with celebrity chef Tyler Florence. We will also award the $100,000 grand prize for the winning recipe. An hour before the show, which starts at 6 p.m., a number of Charleston's best restaurants will provide a tasting reception. In addition to this, throughout the entire weekend our Idea House on Daniel Island, about 15 minutes from downtown Charleston, will be open for visiting. I hope if you see me at the show (I'll be in the audience) or at the Idea House, you will come up and say hello. For more specifics about the cook-off, visit www.southernlivingevents.com.

Now when it comes to football, Cassandra Vanhooser is our resident expert. Her annual pick of which Southern team will be number one appears on page 120. However, some of the most beloved team members-the school mascots-don't even play in the games. Turn to page 124 to read Cassandra's tribute to these spirit winners and college icons.

Another story she did appears in our "Weekend Living" special section. Cassandra visited with author Peter Jenkins of A Walk Across America fame at his home in Tennessee. The interview produced a delightful tale about his adventures. It starts on page 92, and, trust me, it's worth your time to read.

Finally, if you've never heard Sacred Harp singing, turn to Valerie Luesse's story on page 108. It will inspire you to visit www.fasola.org to find a singing nearby and experience the joy firsthand. If you can't attend an event, check out our Web site (southernliving.com/september2006) to hear the strains of this special, haunting harmony.

Best regards,

John Alex Floyd, Jr., Editor

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Sep 2006
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