As you stroll down the streets of Downtown Jackson this fall and enjoy the breeze and the changing colors, it is easy to dismiss the history that surrounds you. Of course we all know the popular history of Casey Jones and Rockabilly that hides in every corner, but lesser known is the spirits that roam our city. Yes, in the spirit of the season we are talking about ghosts.

Cultures of Jackson: 2nd Annual Jackson International Food and Art Festival

Tranquil excitement, an exotic assortment of colors, and upbeat music greets my senses as I walk through downtown Jackson. I can't make out the words of the deep melody that I hear, but it reminds me of the Turkish music so dear to my heart. Walking through the streets of East Main and Highland, I feel more like I am back in Mexico City or Istanbul rather than West Tennessee.

Hello Jackson: HaliHannigan's Cupcakery

HaliHannigan’s Cupcakery opened in November 2010 and has quickly become a Jackson staple. I still remember when it opened on Vann Drive, and I even remember the first cupcake I tried there. It was a Strawberry Pucker, and it was absolutely fantastic! Now they have even more flavors and a variety of bakery items sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Fireflies and Fire Pits

While there are many signs that summer is making its exit and fall is peeking around the corner, the gradual disappearance of fireflies from my backyard is the flickering billboard announcing summer’s conclusion. The days grow shorter, time spent in the hammock might require one to be cocooned inside a well-worn comforter, and the sunsets are all the more vivid. Being a native Floridian, the home of only two seasons (pre-spring and summer), it was quite a treat to see the leaves turn color.

EssaysGuest ContributorOctober 13, 2015Jackson TN, Tennessee, Tracie Barnard, fall, autumn, seasons, apples, Crock Pot, cooking, food, football

Futbol—Not Football

When most people in the south, let alone Tennessee, hear the word “football,” suddenly there’s raving excitement and chants of “Roll Tide,” “VFL,” or anything SEC- or college football-related. Yet for others the term “football” will more than likely resonate with a different pastime from across the pond. Futbol, or soccer as we predominately call it in the States, has been a rising entity throughout the years and has rapidly been reaching its peak in popularity.