Did you know our neighboring state of Georgia offers some of the most nostalgic names and events?

As you travel this state, beginning in the northern section at Tallulah Falls, you will witness some of the most beautiful waterfall sceneries in the south. In fact, you can see those high falls where the Wallenda families walked across it many years ago.

Also, trek to Dahlonega, Ga., where you can actually pan for gold. Known as, “The Gold City,” thousands claim uncovering tiny bits of gold in the waters flowing in this high mountain area.

Working your way south, take in Eatonton, GA. This is the home of Joel Chandler Harris, author of the “Uncle Remus” stories. As you explore this town, you will notice streets are named after characters in his books. Brer Rabbit and Tar Baby are examples of the street names. A 1940’s movie, “Song of the South”, was based on the Uncle Remus stories. Words in a popular song from that movie were, “Zip a Dee Do Dah, Zip a Dee Yah, My Oh My What a Wonderful Day”.

His literary works became known worldwide, but in later years they were frowned on by some and removed from the shelves. The movie was also pulled from showings.

Traveling further south, take in “The Okefenoke Swamp”, which actually lies in south Georgia and north Florida. Here you will see a classic swamp filled with exotic birds, alligators, snakes and numerous animals. Located in a state park, it was the setting for a popular 1952 movie, “Lure of the Wilderness”.

Meandering through the state take in Louisville, GA., this is the site of the famous slave-trade market. And then, travel to Vidalia, Georgia’s popular, “Onion City.”

Move over to Augusta and walk through the beautiful grounds where the famous Master Golf Tournament is held. There you can take in all the beautiful assorted flowers, shrubs and trees. The flowing creeks are beyond description.

Callaway Gardens offers a virtual paradise of thrills and excitement. Not too far away, those famous Christmas lights can be experienced. Here you drive through wooded areas filled with exotic and colorful lights and enchanting Christmas music. To me, the most beautiful musical selection on this journey is, “Sleigh Ride,” performed by the full orchestra and written by Leroy Anderson.

Your trip would not be complete without a visit to, “The Little White House.” This was the retreat for President Roosevelt, who came here often to bathe in the warms waters to help ease his polio condition.

Finally, take in the Andersonville Cemetery and Prison site. You will be amazed seeing relics and old graves from this Civil War area.

Yes, this neighboring state has much to offer and it is only a few hours away.

Now, let’s take a look at some news from 1966.

The Bratt Baptist Church christened its new pastorium that year. Mrs. Henry Rodgers was elected president of the South Alabama 4th District Dental Auxiliary.

That was a good year for coffee drinkers, as Kwik Chek sold one-pound cans of Astor coffee for 49 cents.

Do you remember that “yard sale”, which ran from north Alabama all the way to Michigan? Moreover, how many of you went to it? You know or you may not know that U.S. Highway 31 ends in north Michigan and begins at Spanish Fort in Baldwin County.

In addition to sales merchandise, there were musical groups featuring Bluegrass pickers and Polka bands.

These musical styles are always enjoyable. But, have you ever noticed some Bluegrass pickers never smile, often displaying a somewhat somber expression? This is a direct contrast to Polka accordion players, who smile all the time. But I am a fond lover of Bluegrass. I bet you never saw Lawrence frown when playing his accordion. If you want to watch smiling according players take a look at “Molly B Polka Party” It is carried on the RFD TV network at 9 p.m. on Saturdays. Or, better still, tune in to the fabulous “Jimmy Sturr Polka Show,” Friday nights at 6 on the same network.

I read where one woman was trying to find a rare bowl in that marathon yard sale. She was trying to complete a matching set. She found it at one of the sales along a Tennessee highway. The person selling the bowl was from Cincinnati. I told my wife about it, and believe it or not, she uncrated a mug given to her years ago by her one-hundred-year-old grandfather, Rue Mason. I removed it from a carefully wrapped wooden box and found some numbers on the bottom of it. I went to the computer and Goggled in “rare shaving mugs” and found that same set of numbers. I was then referred to “prices and values” and discovered it had a value of $185. I guess that mug would have sat there and never garnered research had I not read about the nation’s longest yard sale.

Next week, I’ll have more news about people, places and events from years gone by.

“…..yes, it always whispers to me….those days of long ago….”