March 2021 - Embrace Southern States

TRAVIS NAPPER TALKS TOURISM

March 31, 2021March 29, 2021 by angelchatt

Congratulations to Travis Napper for achieving his one-year anniversary as Director of Arkansas Tourism!

As we all know, 2020 was a strange and difficult year. For Travis Napper that included moving from Louisiana and starting a new job during a pandemic. He credits his easy-going personality and the love of a beautiful family for keeping him humble and focused on the potential of a great future in Arkansas.

After the recent Arkansas Governors Conference on Tourism, Director Napper was gracious enough to answer a few of my questions.

Arkansas Director of Tourism Travis Napper

Can you describe your job in one sentence?

As the Director of Arkansas Tourism, I try to get people to visit the state of Arkansas!

What are the biggest rewards from your job?

Knowing the impacts that we have in so many communities across the state, from tiny towns to the largest cities. Each destination has something unique to share that travelers will be interested in, and we get to help tell their stories to a larger audience and amplify their message.

What else do you enjoy about the position?

The places I get to see and promote are incredible and so is learning about the people and stories behind each location.

Should others respect what you do?

Yes, because we are promoting the act of making lifetime memories and connecting people. Also, if a location is a good place to visit, then it is a good place to live. Tourism is about so much more than traveling – it is also about quality of life.

What place (besides Arkansas) tops your bucket list right now?

I would love to see Montana.

What place would you like to revisit?

I would enjoy another visit to Montreal, especially during the summer.

What are some of the best things about Arkansas?

Arkansas is known as “The Natural State”, so obviously our natural beauty is what stands out. But the joy of promoting an entire state is the diversity of experiences that you get to share. Arkansas has such a great mix, from the capital city of Little Rock in the central part of the state, to the corridor of Fayetteville/Rogers/Bentonville in the northwestern part of the state. We have urban and rural, we have food, fun, art, music…Arkansas really does have all you need.

Finally, what are some of your personal passions?

That would have to include food, art, and great conversations. In my alone time I enjoy reading. Of course, I enjoy spending quality time with my family. I love to throw the ball with my son.

About Arkansas Tourism
Arkansas Tourism, a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, strives to expand the economic impact of travel and tourism in the state and enhance the quality of life for all Arkansans. The division manages 14 Arkansas Welcome Centers and employs more than 60 staff members across The Natural State. For more information, visit www.arkansas.com .

Many thanks to both Director of Tourism Travis Napper and Communications Manager Leah DiPietro for all your great information!

The Lady Who Embraces Obsessions

March 21, 2021 by angelchatt

This is a story about family, faith, autism, and art. There was a sweet young African American girl who grew up in a nice family. Read this story to discover how she grew to embrace those who have obsessions. Find out how and why this became her obsession.

Her dad was in the military and they moved around often, living overseas and in several states. They moved to Tallahassee, Florida when he retired. She and her sister would each find unique and beautiful ways to express their creativity.

BETTY

The girl, Betty, was very smart and determined. She was not exactly sure what she would do with her life, but she knew it would involve helping others. She studied hard and eventually earned a master’s degree in Social Work at Florida State University.

NIJAH

Right after college she had a vision. In it she was helping young people, many with developmental disorders on the autism spectrum. Then she gave birth to a darling daughter whom she named Nijah. Difficulties in socializing and communicating led to Nijah being diagnosed with autism. Betty had a strong faith and did a lot of praying. She knew that this was totally a God thing, and that He would guide her in knowing what to do.

Betty and Nijah have been through a lot while learning about autism, about one another, and about life. A common component of autism is intense obsessing on only one topic. Betty wants to inform people that obsession does not have to be an obstacle. It can be reframed and reimagined to become a clear path that can pave the way to a career. Nijah is obsessed with art, so Betty is showing her how to translate her passion and skills into a livelihood.

OBSESSIONS

About four years ago, Betty opened a business named Obsessions. It is part gift shop, part arts and crafts, and part educational experience. According to this amazing owner, Betty Proctor, Obsessions is “a joyful place where young and old can socialize and create items like paintings and greeting cards”.

Find arts, crafts, gifts, and new friends.

MPAC

Obsessions is operated hand in hand with Betty’s nonprofit organization MPAC, which stands for Motivating People through Arts and Crafts. Through these two joint ventures, Betty Proctor promotes art, entrepreneurship, and opportunities to enhance life skills and leadership. Betty says it is so rewarding to help those with autism to learn, grow, and have fun.

Interviewing her was incredibly inspiring and heartwarming. Since I am primarily a travel writer, I just had to ask a few travel questions. She reports that one of her favorite beach spots is Destin, Florida, and that she would love to go back for more travel in San Francisco and in Germany. She would love to encourage visitors to choose Tallahassee as a great destination for dining, shopping, and fabulous photo opportunities.

Betty Proctor is impressive and inspiring.

THE MESSAGE

I asked her what makes her an exuberant person and what message might she wish to share with the world. Here is her reply, “What I do now is a faith walk in which God is with me and leads the right people to me. It is all for the good and has given me confidence. I’m driven to show that every human being is valuable and has so much to offer. No one should ever be discounted just because they have a label.”

Betty Proctor and her daughter Nijah invite you to visit Obsessions at 681 Industrial Drive in Tallahassee, Florida. It is in the Railroad Square Arts District. You can contact them here: https://www.facebook.com/obsessionsgifts

So now you know the story about Betty, the lady who embraces obsessions. Her story is impressive and admirable. She has turned adversity into advantage. She has turned sadness into joy. She thrives on matters of family, faith, autism, and art. This world needs many more folks like Betty Proctor.

Buying a Florida Vacation Home May Be More Practical Than You Think

March 10, 2021 by angelchatt

Guest Post by Jim McKinley

If you have long dreamed of a vacation home in Florida but felt it wasn’t justifiable to go ahead with it, take a second look. Purchasing and maintaining a home in sunny Florida can become an affordable reality. Whether you are a retiree or a small-time real estate investor, your dream of a southern home is well within reach.

Southern culture can be so alluring. People who are interested in learning more should check out Embrace Southern States, a website dedicated to all the best aspects of the southern United States. Your journey to owning property in the beautiful south is just beginning. Enjoy each step of the planning process and learn how your real estate investment can earn you money.

Making Money with Your Florida Property

There are a variety of ways your new property can pay for itself. Whether you opt to rent directly to a tenant or go through a company like Airbnb, renting your property can be a profitable endeavor. If you live a distance from Florida, consider hiring a cleaner to prep the home between rentals. Property management companies can maintain your yard to ensure that it is up to your standards while you are away.

If your property has the land capacity and the right vibes, consider developing a small-venue events area. An outdoor area with beautiful gardens and arbors could offer a terrific backdrop for a small wedding or photo shoot. Your property may have more income-potential than it seems, and these varying strategies could end up paying the mortgage on the new home and even put additional money into your pocket.

Regardless of what sort of rental plan you devise, you can protect yourself and your assets from potential litigation by establishing a limited liability company (LLC) for your vacation rental business. Developing an LLC will ensure that your personal assets are protected in the event of a lawsuit from a renter. As you develop your LLC, you can hire a lawyer or use a formation service, which is considerably less expensive. Saving money on a property is important for most people; there are ways to reduce your real estate costs and get the most for your money.

Buying a Reduced-Cost Property in the South

Affordable housing can be hard to come by, but if you know what to look for, you can find a home that meets your needs and fits your budget. Given the events of the pandemic, many people are looking to sell, which means your housing selection will be greater. To find a less expensive home, look for houses that may need a little work. Minor home repairs can be completed with relative ease if you are handy with tools.

Buying property over time is another option for purchasing a home in Florida. Owner financing can be inexpensive as long as you have legal guidance on how to protect yourself and a contract that outlines details of the long-term transaction. Weigh all the pros and cons and be sure to investigate the property details to ensure that you are getting into a safe, legal situation.

As you make your plans for southern property ownership, keep in mind that your lifestyle is going to change in amazing ways.

Be Prepared for Heat and Happiness

Southern life is where it’s at. There is no doubt that the notorious southern hospitality, positive vibes, and incredible food will win you over from your first visit to your final move. If you have spent time in the southern states, you will know how important it is to have a plan for managing the heat. Invest in a quality air conditioning system that will keep you comfortable in your southern dream home.

If the south is calling, take a listen. Explore properties and make your Florida home ownership hopes a reality. With some creative planning, your property can pay for itself.

For lighthearted reading about southern life, check out Embrace Southern States today.

Road Trip Delights & Dilemmas

March 5, 2021 by angelchatt

Snow! It makes colors POP…but can be treacherous!

My recent road trip in parts of Mississippi and Alabama was such a mixed bag of highs and lows, of expected and unexpected, of delights and dilemmas. I currently live in Florida, so y’all should certainly understand that I am NOT accustomed to driving (or walking) in snow.

TUPELO, MISSISSIPPI

Tupelo, MS had the worst snowfall in about 24 years, or so I was told. When it is fresh it is a joy to behold. Truth be told, I’d rather just see it on television or a travel website from here on out. I did manage to get nice photos, but sloshing around in the slush was cold, dirty, and probably more than a bit dangerous for an old broad like me who must sometimes use a cane. A cane, a purse, three cameras…I was quite the comical sight and so happy to escape unscathed.

While the snow and other complications of mixing Covid craziness with a writer’s conference did present brief moments of closures and confusion, our bunch braved weather together and managed to learn a lot and laugh a lot. Kudos to shuttle driver Chiquita Bobo who is a true road warrior! She earned my deepest admiration. Kudos to organizers Melody and Taylor who smiled through their tears and showed true determination. Their travel writing can be seen at Wherever I May Roam Blog.

Melody and I got to know one another at #STETupelo.

Although the Elvis birthplace was closed, I did slosh around and manage to get lots of pictures.

Can’t you see young Elvis learning to play guitar on this porch?

And less than a mile away I came upon this this most beautiful and breathtaking view that is simply too pretty to put into words.

COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI

The next stop was the adorable small town of Columbus, Mississippi. Every single person there is a profusion of sweet Southern charm. Their accents and attitudes are alluring. Many of them are characters who deserve to be celebrated. “Mother Goose” has been advocating literacy for over 35 years. Her friend Barbara Bigelow heads Columbus Main Street and is the epitome of a Southern lady.

“Mother Goose” and Barbara Bigelow are keeping Columbus exciting and vibrant.

There is a very large historic district filled with lovely antebellum and Victorian homes that includes the birthplace of playwright Tennessee Williams.

Colorful details on the Tennessee Williams home.

This architecture abounds in Columbus, Mississippi.

TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA

The next stop was Tuscaloosa, Alabama…where you should expect to hear “Roll Tide”, often. What you may not expect is the great variety of food and attractions. While there I enjoyed Mexican and Italian dishes.

Two of the biggest surprise discoveries that I happened upon were Hurricane Creek Park and Capitol Park.

Capitol Park (completed 1829, burned down 1923).

Driving back toward Florida I stopped many times to photograph old abandoned buildings and other roadside oddities.

The bizarre beauty of abandoned buildings.

This is what makes road trips so much fun. They combine the joy of going at your own pace, letting down the windows, and singing as loud as you like along with the radio. You just never know what wonderful sights and delights await you on your next road trip. This was a trip full of delights and dilemmas. Now my only dilemma is…when can I start my next adventure?!?!

Please follow along with me here at Embrace Southern States. I will keep you informed about upcoming travel articles, food, art, interviews, and so much more. Also you can find more on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates .

If you enjoyed any of these photos, please take a moment to let me know. Thank you.