With Thanksgiving and gratitude, we present a special episode of Savory Stories celebrating the rich flavors, history, and traditions behind one of America’s most cherished holidays. Starting with Thanksgiving's origins as a New England tradition, we explore the first feast between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag and the complex relationship between the two, as well as George Washington’s 1789 proclamation that set the foundation for the holiday we celebrate today.

We also highlight the profound existence of Native Americans, the unique history of Thanksgivings in Atlanta, and how these stories continue to shape the dishes we love.

Plus, we’re serving up recipe inspiration, including:

- Secrets for the perfect brine, sweet potato dishes, and creative cranberry recipes

- Chef Matthew Raiford’s Citrus Candied Sweet Potatoes from Bress ’n Yam

- Toni Tipton-Martin’s decadent Sweet Potato Pie with Praline Topping from Jubilee

- Chef Jennifer Booker’s delicious Sweet Potato Crepes from Dinner Déjà Vu: Southern Tonight, French Tomorrow

Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for new ideas to elevate your Thanksgiving table, this episode is packed with inspiration and gratitude.

For information, head over to https://www.wabe.org/podcasts/savory-stories.

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In this Savory Stories (Rewind), we revisit the powerful connections between soul food, activism, stereotypes, and the civil rights movement. From fried chicken sandwiches and black-eyed peas to the enduring symbolism of watermelon, they explore how food has fueled Black resistance and community building.

While icons like Rosa Parks and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. are well-known, we will spotlight the lesser-known heroes who championed civil rights through food entrepreneurship. From stories, such as Ransom Montgomery, who used his earnings to help build Big Bethel AME, a historic landmark in Atlanta’s Sweet Auburn district that played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement. Other figures include Georgia Gilmore, who fed Montgomery Bus Boycotters; Robert and James Pascal, whose Paschal’s Restaurant became an activist hub; and Amiri Baraka, the writer who first coined the term "soul food."

The episode also highlights modern Atlanta food activists and organizations, including Party at the Polls, Georgia STAND-UP, and celebrated chef Deborah VanTrece, who continues this legacy of community support and resistance.

For more information about this episode visit:

https://www.wabe.org/atlantas-savory-stories-shares-history-of-food-as-a-form-of-nonviolent-black-resistance

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In this timely episode of Savory Stories, hosts Akila McConnell and Chef Asata Reld dive into the intriguing relationship between drinks and elections in the U.S., just in time for the 2024 election season. Whether it’s a cold beer, a sophisticated cocktail, or a refreshing non-alcoholic option, beverages have played an unexpected but important role in politics. Akila and Asata discuss everything from the well-known question, “Which candidate would you rather have a beer with?” to the way drinks have helped candidates connect with voters. They explore how our drink choices may influence political preferences and the way campaigns use this dynamic.

The episode also uncovers the history of “treating” and “cooping” in elections, the favorite drinks of U.S. presidents, and the quirky beer laws of Georgia. From mocktails that go beyond simple sparkling juice to the rise of alcohol-free spirits, the hosts share their favorite places and trends for election night drinks, whether you're toasting a victory or anxiously awaiting results.

Featured Restaurants and Breweries:

· Southern Belle and Georgia Boy

· Vesper in Glenwood Park

· Monday Night Brewing,

· Best End Brewery

· Halfway Crooks:

· Lucian Books and Wine:

· Kimball House

· Ticonderoga Club

· Apres Diem

· Cafe Intermezzo:

· Manuel’s Tavern

· Bacchanalia

Other Mentions:
White House Beer Recipe
Library of Congress: Black & White Photo

Tune in for a fun, informative episode filled with surprising stories, historical insights, and a celebration of the cultural role that drinks play during one of America's most important civic moments.

For information, head over to https://www.wabe.org/podcasts/savory-stories.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.