Living Like a Local Newsletter Vol 5

Volume 5: What is spring break?

Which of the above looks more appealing to you?

Have you noticed that a lot of us are talking about spring break and how excited we are? Have you noticed the emphasis on going somewhere for spring break? Have you noticed the amount of advertising around what we call ‘spring break culture’ which is mostly centered on partying? Well, if you have noticed these things…good job! Let’s do a brief history of spring break in the US.

Spring break started in the 1930s when college swimmers began to flock to Ft Lauderdale, Florida (image above left) to be able to train in the warmer water and temperatures. By the 1960s the national media noticed the annual congregation of college students in Ft Lauderdale and went down to report on what was happening. A young woman interviewed by Life Magazine explained that she had come to Ft Lauderdale because "this is where the boys are." And BOOM! A campaign slogan was born and spring break took on new meaning.

Businesses took advantage of this by offering specials such as “All you can drink beer for $1.50” The more the hype grew, the more students flocked to beaches and the more of a massive party it became. Now families are drawn to using this time for family vacations that are NOT about beer specials but more about spending quality time together.

For me, spring break is all about the weather. Because I crave sunshine and heat, this break is a chance to go see the sun, which this year is Miramar Beach, Florida! For me it is also a touchstone that we are halfway between winter break and summer break so it’s time to recharge my batteries, rest and gear up for the final stretch of the school year.

However you decide to spend your time next week, I hope it is exactly what you need and you come back refreshed. Enjoy and stay safe everyone!

WORD OF THE WEEK: Hush

Hush literally means to be quiet but here in the south it is used as an exclamation inferring that the person could be lying or a way to make people feel better about something or bring them comfort.

Hush now, it will all work out for you.

PHRASE OF THE WEEK: Stop it!

Similar to ‘hush’, ‘stop it’ is used as an exclamation that basically means I can’t believe what you are saying right now. Or, this is crazy and unbelievable. It can also convey a position of being humble or modest.

You look incredible!

Oh stop it.

RECIPE OF THE WEEK: Biscuits

Biscuits are not only a southern staple but also an American favorite in general. Talk to Will Doran about his biscuit obsession and how it led him to move to Knoxville.

https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/easy-drop-biscuits