Todd McCall
Living in Greenville, SC
Total page views: 94,701
Published Content: 287
Fans: 41
On AC since: 12.05.08
Bio:
Full time professional writer with experience delivering top quality web and magazine content as well as PR releases. Got started here on AC.
Full time professional writer with experience delivering top quality web and magazine content as well as PR releases. Got started here on AC.
Interests:
naturalism, wild and edible plants, survival, green living, space, science, contemporary art, folk art, film and television
naturalism, wild and edible plants, survival, green living, space, science, contemporary art, folk art, film and television
Motto:
Specialization is for insects.
Specialization is for insects.
Displaying Results 1 - 200 (of 287)
Of the handful of wildflowers featuring top clusters of small white flowers in an umbel, anise root (Osmorhia longistylis) is the first to come into bloom.
By Todd McCall | Published 11/4/2009
It was not until a twelve year old French-owned slave by the name of Edmond Albius had a moment of genius that the production of vanilla was opened up into other regions, and vanilla became affordable to the average consumer.
By Todd McCall | Published 10/14/2009
During a recent hike in Hendersonville, NC, I stumbled upon about two dozen purple mushrooms growing in dense shade at the very end of the summer season. It turns out that these mushrooms are Cortinarius violaceus.
By Todd McCall | Published 9/23/2009
While there are a handful of purple mushroom species to be found on the planet, the most likely candidate for a mushroom hunter or wildlife enthusiast to come across in North America is Cortinarius violaceus.
By Todd McCall | Published 9/23/2009
Here is the lowdown on catnip, also known as Nepeta, a herb famous for its effect on our little feline friends.
By Todd McCall | Published 9/18/2009
Here's the skinny on Cachaca, an alcoholic beverage made from fermented sugarcane juice that is extremely popular in Brazil.
By Todd McCall | Published 9/18/2009
Goldenrod is a common herb sized plant that thrives in areas with poor soil, such as road sides, wastelands and recently torn earth such as construction areas. Here are some basic tips to identifying the species of Goldenrod in North Carolina.
By Todd McCall | Published 9/18/2009
From the iconic moss draped live oaks providing shade to the bucolic park squares of Savannah, Georgia to the lone live oak growing in bonsai form on an otherwise empty hill, live oaks are are some of the most beautiful and magnificent trees in the south.
By Todd McCall | Published 9/18/2009
When the crape myrtles finally come into bloom in the summer months, they are a pleasure to see throughout the South. Here is some info on five of the more common white crape myrtles.
By Todd McCall | Published 9/18/2009
Here are some of the most important tips to bear in my when judging which pieces of fruit to buy at the market. Follow this guide to picking fresh fruit, and you shouldn't be disappointed with your selection again.
By Todd McCall | Published 9/18/2009
The study of Big Bang Nucleosynthesis is the study of the conditions that existed for seventeen minutes following the Big Bang that created the universe.
By Todd McCall | Published 9/18/2009
Partridge berry, or Mitchella repens, is an appealing ground cover plant that thrives throughout deciduous forests, especially in the low lying areas at the base and foothills of the Appalachian Mountain range.
By Todd McCall | Published 9/18/2009
While most botanists agree that it is difficult to identify goldenrods by species on continental scale, identifying the goldenrods in your community is actually pretty doable if you follow these three basic steps.
By Todd McCall | Published 9/17/2009
By having some fun with pairing different wines with desserts, you'll have everyone at your table with something to really dig into and explore.
By Todd McCall | Published 9/4/2009
In a sign that the zombie apocalypse has surely begun, 65 year old William Rice lost a finger today when a confrontation between rival sides of the debate over health care reform.
By Todd McCall | Published 9/3/2009
Traveling to Africa can be an enlightening and eye opening experience, but, as with travel to any corner of the globe other than your own, it is important to remember that there are health risks that your body does not have a solid defense for.
By Todd McCall | Published 9/1/2009
Whether you are design a full butterfly garden or simply looking for a few good plant species to attract some of the fluttering miracles to your yard, there are many plant varieties that are famous for functioning as a magnet for butterflies.
By Todd McCall | Published 8/21/2009
Here's an attempt at sifting through the hype of the headlines to get to the real facts behind the Chevy Volt and the 230 mpg rating.
By Todd McCall | Published 8/21/2009
While around a dozen sage cultivars are routinely used in the kitchen, the most popular varieties of culinary sage are common sage, fruit sage and pineapple sage.
By Todd McCall | Published 8/21/2009
Woodburning tools come in a wide range of prices and models. Here are some basic things to consider when choosing a new woodburner for your shop.
By Todd McCall | Published 8/21/2009
Not all wood species were created equally when it comes to woodburning, so it is important to be sure that you are working with a wood that is approachable.
By Todd McCall | Published 8/20/2009
Whether it is caring for a singe antique slot machines or enjoying a collection of multiple machines, collecting and tinkering with antique slot machines can be a fascinating hobby.
By Todd McCall | Published 8/20/2009
The strawberry geranium, or Saxifraga stolonifera, are a perennial evergreen that is easy to grow and makes for a very attractive houseplant or gardening ground cover. Let us take a closer look at the basic care needed for them to truly thrive.
By Todd McCall | Published 8/16/2009
Although a causation between one variable and another requires a correlation, a correlation in no way implies a causation.
By Todd McCall | Published 8/16/2009
The active ingredients in Listerine are simply the essential oils of herbs that people have been using for centuries for medical purposes
By Todd McCall | Published 8/15/2009
Some of our neighboring planets and moons appear to be awash in a variety of bodies ranging from oceans of ice to methane seas to subsurface liquid oceans spanning an entire moon or planet.
By Todd McCall | Published 8/15/2009
The theory of indigo children is a belief that we are currently witnessing the creation of the next step of evolution in our present generation of young children.
By Todd McCall | Published 8/13/2009
Let's take a quick look at the science behind the Wint-O-Green Lifesaver spark and where else in our daily world we can find similar phenomena.
By Todd McCall | Published 8/13/2009
Built in 1913 as a heath resort, the Grove Park Inn was designed and furnished in the tradition of Arts and Crafts movement making this building feel right at home amongst the Appalachian foothills.
By Todd McCall | Published 8/12/2009
Ear candling is a bizarre folk medical practice in which an individual places a lit hollow candle in the ear canal and allows the candle to burn out of the side of their head to remove body toxins through the ear wax.
By Todd McCall | Published 8/9/2009
Seemingly everywhere we look, we are finding animals that show signs of being aware of themselves and have the ability to learn about the world around them in a manner that goes well beyond instinct or simply learning by rote.
By Todd McCall | Published 8/8/2009
Prosopagnosia, or face blindness, is a neurological condition that impairs an individual's ability to correctly perceive and recognize faces.
By Todd McCall | Published 8/8/2009
Let's take a closer luck at the voucher initiative and try to answer the question: is cash for clunkers right for you?
By Todd McCall | Published 8/6/2009
Horizon Group Management LLC filed a lawsuit claiming libel against Twitter user Amanda Bonnen today, requesting $50,000 in damages. Bonnen had 20 followers on Twitter at the time.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/28/2009
There is a wide range of extended stay hotels in Seattle offering accommodations of every style and price point. Here are five of the best extended stay hotels in Seattle, Washington.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/27/2009
Here are five of the top extend stay hotels in Minneapolis.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/27/2009
Whether you are a business traveler that likes to hang his or her hat in a homely setting or amongst more modern furnishings, you're sure to find something to your taste and price range amongst one of these top five extended stay hotels in Houston.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/27/2009
Motor City may have seen better days economically, but many businesses are still thriving on the periphery. Here are five of the best extended stay hotels in Detroit.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/27/2009
In terms of business travel, Phoenix offers some of the most economical accommodation for extended stays of any major American city. Here are four of the best extended stay hotels in Phoenix, ranging from the practical to the extravagant.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/27/2009
Here are four of the top extended stay hotels in Miami.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/27/2009
Business travelers who have a long term assignment to Denver have their choice of extended stay hotels that range from the simple and affordable to the opulent and exorbitant. Here are four of the top extended stay hotels in Denver.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/27/2009
Here are four extended stay hotels in Tampa with a range of accommodations that should suit any traveler's taste and budget.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/27/2009
Whether you are looking for a high end business suite or just someplace economical for you to hang your hat, there are many extended stay hotels in Pittsburgh. Here are the top five extended stay hotels in Pittsburgh.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/27/2009
If you are looking for a type of cultivar to grow as a centerpiece of your lawn or garden, consider choosing of the top 10 largest varieties of crape myrtles.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/21/2009
Crate myrtles can be found towering as small shrubs less than a foot tall to towering trees more than three stories high, but some of the best varieties for a home garden or front yard are at a more moderate height of 8-15'.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/21/2009
If you are looking for a crape myrtle that is broad enough to expand and fill in a large area, consider choosing one of these 10 broad varieties of crape myrtle.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/21/2009
One of the biggest challenges to growing happy and healthy crape myrtles is battling mildew. Let's take a closer look at the cause of the problem, how to avoid mildew on a crape myrtle and how to treat the mildew once it becomes a problem.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/21/2009
Although the late blooming flowers of crape myrtles make for great floral company during the mid to late summer, it is the gorgeous peeling bark of an exfoliating crape myrtle in the fall that lets some varieties of crape myrtles really shine.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/21/2009
Although crape myrtles are often grown as the centerpiece of a small lawn or as a hedge shrub, crape myrtles are also available in a number of dwarf and miniature cultivars that are suitable for smaller spaces, container gardening and even ground cover.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/21/2009
Here are five incredible bat facts that might show that the world of bats is a much different what than you may have imagined.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/21/2009
The little bundle of dryer lint left over after every humble load of laundry has a surprising number of applications. Here are the top 5 uses for dryer lint.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/16/2009
Thyme has long been central to the cooking of almost all Mediterranean cultures, and its popularity as an essential herb has spread throughout Western society in recent centuries. Here are seven of the most important cultivars of thyme.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/16/2009
A staycation is a vacation in which you return home every night to sleep, thus saving you lodging and other expenses that you can put to other uses. It's useful for everyone to agree to a few ground rules in order to keep your staycation on track.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/16/2009
A staycation is a vacation based from home in which the couple or family returns home each night, saving considerable money on lodging and travel expenses in the process.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/16/2009
After a tooth has been extracted by a dentist, your recovery is pretty much up to you. Here are some basic after care tips for a quick recovery to your tooth extraction.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/16/2009
Here is a step-by-step explanation from a patient's view on what to expect during a tooth extraction, as well as some tips to make the procedure as simple as possible for you and your dentist.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/16/2009
After an injured or infected tooth has been extracted, the tricky part is finding an affordable and safe way to fill the gap. Here are the five primary methods of replacing a single missing tooth after a tooth extraction.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/16/2009
Monkey helpers are assistance animals that are typically trained to help quadriplegics and other individuals with severe mobility-impairments.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/13/2009
The suitcase nuke is a familiar image in the popular imagination due to its presence in pop culture and concerns regarding a terrorist attack. But are they real?
By Todd McCall | Published 7/10/2009
Culinary lavender is a versatile and subtle herb that could be welcome in any chef's kitchen. Here are a few culinary uses for lavender that I recommend.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/8/2009
Here are some of the many low income resources in Greenville, South Carolina.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/8/2009
With the inexpensive USB flash drives that are now available, some geeks are getting extra crafty with DIY modification projects that are sure to turn some heads.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/8/2009
Located in Prince William County, Virginia, Leesylvania State Park is a surprisingly diverse suburban park situated right on the Potomac River and only a shorty drive from many nearby residential areas.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/8/2009
If you are traveling to Houston, Texas for a long term stay but have a limited lodging budget, rest assured that there are plenty of low priced extended stay hotels in town. Here are five affordable suites in Houston for business travelers.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/8/2009
The metropolitan area of Miami, Florida has extended stay hotels available for business and leisure travelers of every budget. Here are five of the more affordable suites in Miami for business travelers.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/8/2009
The city of Boston has some great long term accommodations for business and leisure travelers alike. Here are five of the top extended stay hotels in Boston.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/8/2009
Although there are plenty of affordable suites near Detroit for business travelers to choose from, there aren't many extended stay hotels in the downtown area these days. Here are five of the more popular cheap extended stay hotels near Detroit.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/8/2009
There are extended stay hotels of every caliber dotting the sprawling suburbs of the Los Angeles area. Here are five extended stay hotels in Los Angeles that span the range from mid-range accommodations to seriously upscale.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/8/2009
Holiday Inn Express Hotel in Downtown Detroit has extended stay suites available starting at $143. Suites are furnished with a kitchenette, wet bar, and separate lounging and work areas.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/8/2009
Visitors who find themselves in Cleveland, Ohio have extended stay hotels for every price range and taste. Here are five of the top extended stay hotels in Cleveland.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/8/2009
The city of Portland, Oregon has a wide range of extended stay hotels, ranging from luxury accommodations downtown to more affordable suites on the city's periphery. Here's five of the top extended stay hotels in Portland.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/8/2009
Whether you are relocating to Phoenix, Arizona or have been assigned to the area on a long assignment by your employer, there are many hotels to choose from. Here are five of the top extended stay hotels in Phoenix.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/8/2009
If you are traveling on a budget, there are several fully equipped affordable hotel suites in Phoenix specifically designed to accommodate the business traveler.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/8/2009
A weekend in New York is over as soon as it has begun, and a little planning ahead really helps in fitting in as much (or as little) as possible. Here's some tips on planning a weekend getaway to the big apple.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/7/2009
There are some weeks that are so grueling and mind numbing that come Friday, guys just have to hit the gas and get away for a long weekend. Here are a few classic long weekend packages for bachelors.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/7/2009
Here's an eclectic mix of some of the vacation destinations that often offer killer last minute weekend getaway deals.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/6/2009
Whether you are an industry leader in a major American city or an employee finding himself assigned to a Podunk town for a spell, extended stay hotels like these offer the amenities you deserve after a day on the go.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/6/2009
The next time that your boss tells you to pack your bags, lobby for a suite at one of these top extended stay hotels.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/6/2009
Here's a few weekend vacation packages for families living near Washington, D.C. that are guaranteed to let you decompress in time to start it all again on Monday morning.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/6/2009
Whether your tastes are for urban luxury or peaceful solitude there are endless options of weekend packages for couples. Here are a few romantic packages that will get you two away from that daily grind for the weekend.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/6/2009
A romantic weekend break at a luxurious hotel is a perfect way to spend time with your partner. From decadent to cozy, there are hotels catering to every taste.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/6/2009
In the dog days of summer, there's no time like the present to take advantage of a long weekend and hit the road for a little getaway. Here's a few ideas to consider for your next long weekend break during summer.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/6/2009
Treating your loved ones and yourself like the special people that you are doesn't have to mean abandoning your discipline with money. Here's a few luxury weekend getaways on a budget that won't make anyone feel like you're pinching pennies.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/6/2009
Whether you have a long weekend due to a federal holiday or are just taking a day off, three days is enough time squeeze in a great little vacation. Here's a few ideas to get you started.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/6/2009
If all you'll be doing in your hotel room is sleeping, why not save some of your weekend getaway cash on a cheap hotel? These five top cheap weekend break hotels range from being notoriously cheap to tremendously innovative.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/6/2009
With the air becoming crisp and the leaves beginning to change, Fall is a great time to get away for the weekend and enjoy the season. Here are a handful of great weekend vacation packages for Fall.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/6/2009
All inclusive family vacation packages take all of the worry and stress of budgeting every activity out of the equation and lets you do what you're suppose to do on vacation: have fun!
By Todd McCall | Published 7/6/2009
Sometimes the fellas just need to take a long weekend and leave society in the dust for a few days. Here are a few accommodation packages for bachelors who like to get their hands dirty.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/6/2009
Not all hotels were created equal when it comes to welcoming guests of all ages. Here are 10 family friendly hotels that pride themselves on delivering quality guest services to the entire family.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/6/2009
Each year, tens of thousands of nature lovers make the trek to Roan Mountain, Tennessee to visit the largest natural Rhododendron gardens in the country. However, Roan Mountain and gardens makes for a great day trip that is well worth the drive any time.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/1/2009
Christmas in July is a relatively new tradition that has gained in popularity with families, businesses and advertisers alike in recent years. Let's take a look at the origins of Christmas in July as well as it's role in modern culture.
By Todd McCall | Published 7/1/2009
Here is a close look at four of the more popular trails that the park has to offer that lets hikers of all abilities get out and stretch their legs a bit: Peg Leg Mine Trail, Chestnut Ridge Trail, Cloudland Trail and Forest Road Trail.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/30/2009
Aside from being a year round destination for nature lovers, the park is also host to the very popular Roan Mountain Rhododendron Festival held every June. Here is a summary of what keeps visitors returning to Roan Mountain State Park year after year.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/30/2009
Let's take a look at the different forms of lightning that are known, including some of bizarre lightning found in the upper reaches of the planet's atmosphere.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/30/2009
Although there's no since in hand wringing over an unlikely apocalypse, it doesn't hurt to know how to be prepared with urban sources of emergency drinking water. Here's some basic tips on preparing for and dealing with an urban water shortage.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/29/2009
Here are some tips for the basic water purification techniques of boiling water, chemical treatments, commercial water filters and primitive water purification techniques.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/28/2009
Rosemary is one of the most attractive of the herbs to grow, and a thriving rosemary on a patio or in a garden will provide a constant source of fresh flavors for any home cook. Here is some basic information on the most popular varieties of rosemary.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/28/2009
Unlike many kids' museums, the Children's Museum of the Upstate is truly innovative in their collection of exhibits, each of which provide a unique set of challenges and subject matter to explore in a manner that kids and adults won't find anywhere else.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/28/2009
One way to find and/or purify emergency drinking water in a survival situation is constructing a solar still. Here is a look at the three styles of solar stills: pit, cone and box.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/28/2009
In the event that you find yourself cut off from both society and traditional sources of water, knowing where to look for sources of emergency drinking water in the outdoors will be an important way to keep your wits about you.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/28/2009
Here is some important information to know about some of the most dangerous biological water contaminants to emergency drinking water: Giardia lambia, Cryptosporidium, Flukes, Salmonella and Vibrio cholerae.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/28/2009
Located at the Heritage Green, the Greenville County Museum of Art provides a pubic collection of local and national works of art that provide a glimpse into the artistic perspectives associated with the Upstate region of South Carolina.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
Here is an introduction to the five jewels of the Heritage Green: Hughes Main Library, Greenville Little Theater, Greenville County Museum of Art, Upcountry History Museum and The Children's Museum.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
The West End District of downtown Greenville, South Carolina has plenty of activities attractive to the whole family. The three top fun family activities near Greenville's Falls Park are Falls Park Golf and Games, West End Movies and Spill the Beans.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
Learning how to identify shark teeth will let you put a name to your exciting shark tooth finds from the beach and elsewhere. Here is a rough guide on how to identify shark teeth.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
Greenville, South Carolina is lucky enough to have three local markets: Greenville State Farmers Market, Downtown Greenville's Farmers Market and Carolina First's Saturday Market. Here's the skinny on each of them.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
Located just next to historic Falls Park in downtown Greenville, South Carolina, West End Movies specializes in showing films that are either important parts of cinema history or great movies that have somehow fallen through the cracks.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
Due to its age and physical grandeur, the Angel Oak has become a profoundly important cultural symbol and botanical specimen. Here is glimpse into the splendor of the august Angel Oak and some recent moments in the tree's long history.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
There are many hidden gems to Cleveland Park that allow Greenville citizens the opportunity to enjoy some tranquility in a natural setting without needing to leave the city. Here's a few of the hidden gems of the urban South Carolina park.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
Of all of the point and click digital cameras that I have owned or played around with, and that has been a few, the Canon PowerShot A430 remains my favorite digital camera due to its reliably outstanding picture quality and its intuitive ease of use.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
The Sorrell Weed House is one of only two homes in Savannah that are designated as Georgia state landmarks and carries a long story of cultural and political history. It's also been the sight of numerous ghost sightings as well as film history.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
Making your own natural dyes is a great way to experience nature's bounty as well as provide some useful knowledge on self-reliance. Here are some natural sources for natural dyes that you can find in any wild area or maybe even your own backyard.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
No other film seems to have stuck to the popular imagination's picture of Savannah as Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Here are a few of the most noteworthy movie landmarks in Savannah, Georgia.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
The flowers of the cananga tree have long been gathered and used in the production of ylang ylang essential oil. Here's the full story on ylang ylang in culture, history, aromatherapy and traditional medicine.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
There are over ninety guided tours that are available in Savannah, Georgia, so knowing which tour company is right for you and your group is far from easy. Here are a few of the best known tour guide groups providing guided tours of Savannah, Georgia.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
Here is an inside look at merchandise, atmosphere and customer service of the two comic book stores of Greenville, South Carolina: Borderlands and Richard's Comics and Collectibles.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
Whether it is the lettuce like leaves, the dark roots or the cheery little dandelion flower, every part of the dandelion plant is edible and loaded with nutrients. Here are are few of most common culinary uses for dandelions.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
Some basic knowledge of the risks associated with medical tourism simply let's potential patients know what they are getting into and take the common sense steps necessary to travel safe.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
Located just outside of Savannah, Georgia, Tybee Island is a small beach community that offers a relaxing get away to the ocean shore, whether it is just for part of a day or the destination of a full vacation.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
Located on historic Bay Street in Savannah, Georgia, the Hylton Garden Inn is a well rated hotel with comfortable accommodations and all of the guest services that will make you feel right at home.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
Magicians, card mechanics and illusionists of all styles and ages in Greenville, South Carolina finally have a home at The Magic Shop on Laurens Road.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
It's hard to miss Douglas Jone's Fish Art as you roll onto Tybee Island, Georgia on Highway 80, with its bold hodge podge of cluttered, colorful folk art creations that will either have you slamming the brakes to check it out or hitting the gas.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
Here is nothing quite like enjoying a huge breakfast with plenty of fresh coffee to start your day during a trip to the beach. The Breakfast Club Restaurant on Tybee Island, Georgia has this and much more.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
Here is some basic information on each of the beautiful park squares of Savannah.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
One of the better examples of a non-salted gem mine around Franklin, North Carolina is the Cherokee Ruby and Sapphire Mine off of Cherokee Mine Road.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
The Craggy Gardens District of Blue Ridge National Park provides a welcome change of scenery from the deciduous forest setting of the region.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
With the ever expanding popularity of herb gardens amongst cooks from every walk of life, every spring brings a few new basil varietals to market. Let's take a look at a few of the most tempting varietals that are available on the market.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
Throughout the ages, dandelions have been woven into cultural folklore and have become a positive symbols with a variety of meanings. Here is but a sample of the folklore associated with the dandelions.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/24/2009
The milky white sap residing in the leaves of the dandelions after their initial bloom is a latex that can be used as a form of natural water protection and a source of cheap rubber, while the fluffy seed ball is a surprisingly effective fire accelerant.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/19/2009
Having had the opportunity to play around with the Canon PowerShot A590 on a recent weekend trip with a relative who had just picked one up, I thought I would pass along my take on some of this particular model's features.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/19/2009
Whether you are new to Greenville, South Carolina or just passing through, the downtown Falls Park area is a destination that should be at the top of your list of sites to see.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/19/2009
One of the portions of Swamp Rabbit Trail that is well known to locals, connecting Cleveland Park to the downtown Falls Park. Here is a detailed trail description
By Todd McCall | Published 6/19/2009
Here's a little more information on the facilities of Greenville's Cleveland Park, including the sports fields, the playgrounds and the natural surroundings.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/19/2009
The top three fine restaurants located in the West End of Greenville, South Carolina that I personally recommend are Rick Erwin's West End Grill, Pomegranate on Main and the Overlook Grill at Falls Park.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/19/2009
My favorite such cheap restaurants in Greenville, South Carolina are Memo's Family Restaurant, Hot Dog King and Duke's Sandwich Company.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/19/2009
Whether you are an art lover, a sports fan or an amateur historian, the statues located just beyond Falls Park symbolize the breadth of culture and perspectives that abound in Greenville, South Carolina.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/19/2009
A few of my personal go-to restaurants for lunch at Falls Park in Greenville are Saffron's Sidewalk Cafe, Mellow Mushroom, Overlook Grill and Subway.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/19/2009
Although there are great interior design and clothing shops in the neighborhood, here are a few of the more eclectic stores lining South Main Street just next to Falls Park: The Cook's Station, Greenville Army and Navy Store and Milltown Emporium.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/19/2009
The whole fuss over Twitter celebrities got me thinking about some cultural icons that are no longer with us who might have been fine additions to the upper echelons of Twitter users.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/19/2009
Will Ferrell has teamed up with the charity Cancer for College to release a classy line of suntan lotions that carry Ferrell's official endorsement in bottles that feature Will Ferrell posing in all of his trademark modesty.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/18/2009
Gadget printing is the use of objects as printing stamps in the creation of original crafts or works of art.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/18/2009
Gathering particularly striking bits of urban debris, a past time that I refer to as urban shelling.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/18/2009
Here are some fun activities that you can enjoy with your children that takes advantage of the versatility of the cheerful little dandelion: curling dandelion stalks, braiding dandelion chains and making dandelion snacks.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/18/2009
Microsoft's Project Natal envisions a future of gaming in which the only controller is your own body.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/15/2009
From Bing's bizarre ploy at viral marketing to the ongoing buzz at Apple WWDC 2009, here is what is trending in the world of tech for June 8, 2009.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/9/2009
The work week starts off with plenty of tech headlines, ranging from homeland security issues to novelty computer casings. Here's some of what is sure to dominate the tech news for the day.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/8/2009
The convictions of US journalists Laura Ling and Euna Lee for illegally entering North Korea and their accompanying maximum sentence of 12 years hard labor has many of wondering what it must be like to be in their shoes.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/8/2009
Filling and calmly reassuring, bread is sustenance itself, Atkins be damned. Whether times are tough or you are consciously trying to get by on less, having bread on your table means, well, having bread on your table.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/7/2009
This weekend's tech headlines continue to revolve around the latest software and hardware releases, with plenty of old fashioned PR razzle dazzle in an attempt to get above the fold on the morning paper.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/7/2009
Various parts of the dandelion plant have been used for centuries to create bitter tasting beverages that are both satisfying and nutritious.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/6/2009
This Saturday's tech buzz mostly consists of some much hyped tech releases, particularly those of the Palm Pre mobile device and Sims 3. Opera's latest beta version and the new Bing search engine also make a splash.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/6/2009
Here's some info on how to make donuts on the cheap and some other donut tips.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/4/2009
Nestled at the entrance to Pisgah National Forest, Brevard, North Carolina has become an attractive destination for outdoor tourists and a popular retirement spot. Let's take a look at some of the things that Brevard has to offer.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/2/2009
Paris Mountain State Park is an expansive park lying just outside the city limits of Greenville, South Carolina. 1540 acre park includes an extensive network of short trails that are ideal for day hikes ranging from leisurely to strenuous.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/2/2009
The scenic bridges in and around Greenville illustrate the pastoral history of the region and the promise that more recent innovations hold to carry us into the future.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/2/2009
White squirrels are an eye-catching, handsome genetic variation of squirrel that can be found in colonies throughout eastern North America. Even more arresting is what a fuss the local communities make over the critters.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/2/2009
The Swamp Rabbit Trail will be a thirteen mile route meandering from Traveler's Rest, through downtown Greenville, and on to Lake Conestee. Here are some specifics on the plan for the Greenville portion, some of which are already complete.
By Todd McCall | Published 6/2/2009
Caesars Head State Park is in the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area of Upstate South Carolina located within easy driving distance Greenville, SC, and is home to a wide variety of trails appropriate for nearly every fitness level.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/28/2009
Located in foothills of the Upstate near Greenville, South Carolina, Jone's Gap State Park is the closest park to the city other than Paris Mountain that affords a solid selection of hiking trails, as well as a chance to get deep into the forest.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/28/2009
Microformats allow metadata to by contextually processed and are an essential element of the semantic web that both web developers and content producers need to understand and implement in order to keep up with in increasingly contextually linked web.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/27/2009
Although cats are very clean animals, they still carry some zoonotic diseases that can be spread from cat to owner. Knowing the basics of these ailments can go a long way to avoiding the generally mild afflictions.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/27/2009
Favicons are the tiny icons that appear most often just to the left of a website's URL in the address bar of web browser. Here's the basics on favicons and some tips that can help you design one of your own.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/27/2009
The are a handful of semantic search engines that far proceeded the growing buzz regarding the semantic web, each of which approaches semantic searches differently. Three of the more functional semantic search engines are Haika, SenseBot and Cognition.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/27/2009
Implementing basic microformats is essential to participating in the semantic web and is easier than you might think. Here are four fundamental types of microformats and links to some tools that make getting started a breeze.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/27/2009
Moonshine Falls was once home to some local backwoods brewing and is now a great destination that's off the beaten track. However, the route there and back isn't well marked, so having a solid trail description or two is essential.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/27/2009
For a few bucks, you can pick up enough potatoes to last a person for weeks, and, with a little imagination in the kitchen, you'll be gobbling this delicious cheap food up happily.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/27/2009
We all know how unhealthy stress is on the mind and body and have heard how useful traditional methods of relaxation like meditation, exercises and proper diet are. Here are a few less obvious tactics for reducing stress that happen to work for me.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/27/2009
Whether is is an unlikely adventure, a befuddling mess or a total shock to the system, a dream can be a great break from reality. Here's a few tips on improving your ability to remember your more interesting dreams the next day.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/27/2009
The conditions that make sun tea taste so good are also ideal for bacterial growth. Let's take a look at how sun tea is brewed as well as how to make your beverage in a safe manner.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/27/2009
As the semantic web seems to be on the cusp of a revolution in the way content is organized and ranked, understanding what semantic metadata is and how to implement relevant solutions may become critical for content producers and publishers alike.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/27/2009
Badugi is fun new game of low hand poker that is quickly gaining in popularity in the west. With its four levels of betting and unorthodox hand rankings, it's also a game with lots of action and chances for a killer hand.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/27/2009
Table Rock State Park has hiking trails for every age and fitness level. There are three central hiking trails in the park: Carrick Creek Trail, Pinnacle Mountain Trail, and Table Rock Summit Trail.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/27/2009
Although all actual teas come from the leaves of the same plant, they are processed and cured in a fashion that gives them dramatically different flavor profiles.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/20/2009
While we traditionally believe that it is better to see the glass as half full, pessimists seem more driven to impact the world, often at the expense of their own happiness.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/20/2009
New SEO writers to get a little carried away with keywords. Understanding how and why ideal keyword density affects your page rank on search engine results is an essential part of driving traffic with SEO techniques.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/20/2009
Like many others before me, I mistook the Red Mulberry to be a blackberry tree. Here are some of the distinguishing characteristics of the Red Mulberry as well as some of the many uses for mulberries themselves.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/20/2009
Avoiding and treating a cat's hairballs and fleas with natural remedies available in any kitchen.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/20/2009
Guided meditations are a great way to get back into meditating, learn the basics or just take a break during the day. Here are some of the best online guided meditations, and all are brief enough for any schedule.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/20/2009
Selling your used books can be a real hassle when carrying your books from shop to shop only to end up donating the bulk of them. Online bulk book buyers offer a stream lined process to liquidate your unwanted books in a snap.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/20/2009
As new generations are raised with increasingly sophisticated spelling correction software, what are the repercussions for the quality of content and writing style?
By Todd McCall | Published 5/20/2009
While most think land based plants when thinking of carnivorous plants, some of the most interesting species are aquatic. We'll discuss some fresh water aquatic species as well as the question of such plants at sea.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/20/2009
Regardless of your level of expertise with wood craft, identifying wood can sometimes be tricky. Here's an explanation of why it can be tough, a few tips and some guidance toward useful resources.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/19/2009
Nepenthes rajah, the largest carnivorous plant, is marvelous species that feeds on insects, amphibians and a variety of other prey.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/19/2009
Misinformed perspectives seem to be crossing the line from fear mongering forums and blogs over to actual news stories and daily discourse. How did this happen, and whose job is it to stop it?
By Todd McCall | Published 5/19/2009
Bridges are enduring symbols of man's ability to overcome obstacles. There are four core classes that exemplify the main fundamentals of bridge design.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/19/2009
The semantic web may revolutionize the way we and our computers interact with the World Wide Web. Here's an easy to follow introduction to the topic.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/19/2009
Tucked away just next to Cleveland Park in Greenville, South Carolina is the Greenville Zoo, a surprisingly large collection of well cared for animals from all over the world in an accessible park that's just the right size.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/19/2009
As less and less schools teach cursive to students and spell correction software becomes increasingly sophisticated, will spelling continue to be a top educational priority?
By Todd McCall | Published 5/18/2009
Let's take a closer look at each of the plants that can be found in the Carolinas: Venus fly traps, pitcher plants, bladderworts, butterworts and sundews.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/15/2009
With his penchant for the abominable and his ability to get away with it, it's likely that Pugh's name will only continue to grow in coming years.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/12/2009
While the beloved house cat can be great company for a small child, not all breeds are alike. Here's a few of the most child friendly cat breeds.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/12/2009
Tweeting music just got easier with the advent of boutique URL shorteners to streaming music. Here's the skinny to getting down on Twitter.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/12/2009
In the world of extreme card manipulation, sybils are amongst the most bewildering to watch, difficult to learn and rewarding to master of the card flourishes.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/12/2009
There's nothing quite like a nasty toothache that jumps out of nowhere to suddenly take control of your day. Here's a few natural remedies of tooth pain for those who are looking for an alternative to pharmaceutical pain treatments.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/11/2009
Whether it's a morning cup of mud, an artisan roasted coffee, or just a place to sit and relax for a bit, there are no shortage of coffee houses and cafes in Greenville, South Carolina that can get the job done.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/8/2009
While there is no shortage of synthetic products for dry scalp on the market, there are also some great natural remedies for a dry scalp available that people have been using long before the hair care industry tried to reinvent the wheel.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/8/2009
After going through the learning curve of getting out of the woods with a pack full of stuff I'd never use and missing the essentials, I now know what I wouldn't leave home without. Here's a list of essential backpacking gear.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/8/2009
There's definitely no shortage of beach hat styles out there for more men. Here are a handful of reviews of good beach hats for outdoor enthusiasts or guys who cultivate an active look.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/4/2009
Here are the basics of everything that you should need to know about the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, including a festival schedule, general information, must see artists/vendors, and some other useful info.
By Todd McCall | Published 5/1/2009
June is Adopt a Cat Month, and there a handful of great agencies in the Greenville area that can place you with the perfect new feline companion.
By Todd McCall | Published 4/30/2009
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