Sherry Volrath
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In a song he recorded with Jennifer Nettles of the country band Sugarland, rockstar Jon Bon Jovi asks the question, "Who says you can't go home?" Having lived in Seattle and the Washington, D. C., area, Sherry Volrath has witnessed the stark contrast between country comfort and hectic urban life. From dreaded commutes to living in an area devoid of Krispy Kreme doughnuts, Sherry experienced some major adjustments when she left the rural South. The decision to come back home in 2003, however, resulted in Sherry becoming reacquainted with old friends and making new ones. She is now actively involved in her church and employed at Clemson University where she wears a number of hats. Undoubtedly, her return home has enriched the lives of many.

She is my best friend, most ardent supporter and a devoted advisor.  In addition to her published contributions, Sherry is of great benefit to Southern Edition because I frequently run new ideas by her first. Also, Sherry and I have a mutual love for the South. We have enjoyed memorable day trips to cities like Atlanta, Greenville and Charleston. We both especially love to explore historical sites and pore over antiques shops. My biggest problem with our excursions is that I am always looking for a story. Just as opinionated as myself, Sherry is quite vocal and thinks I should be able to go somewhere just for the fun of it. She insists everything doesn't have to turn into an article . . . to which I reply, "Why not?"

Sherry Volrath and "The Tiger," the mascot for the Clemson Tigers

As I reflect on our experiences, I must say that one of the coolest birthday gifts I ever received came from Sherry in 2005. She surprised me by buying us tickets to see Mahalia---A Gospel Musical at the Theatre in the Square in Marietta, Georgia.  Starring the incomparable Bernardine Mitchell, Tom Stolz's celebration of the life and music of Mahalia Jackson was described by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution as '. . . a hand-clapping, shoulder-swaying gospel homecoming . . . ' We were not disappointed to say the least. I will never forget that experience. However, Sherry and I still laugh when we recall navigating the congested Atlanta freeway on a Saturday afternoon without a hitch only to arrive in Marietta when most of the galleries, antiques malls and shops were closing. We walked around the town square at least once or twice, had dinner at the quaint La Famiglia Ristorante and spent much of the evening in a Walgreen's drug store waiting for the eight o'clock showtime to roll around! Later that night, we left Marietta with some wonderful memories of the play and a pack of copy paper (a Walgreen's purchase, nonetheless) for my inkjet printer!

Sherry's capable photography, writing skills and passion for cooking have played a key role in enhancing the diversity of
Southern Edition. Her submissions to Soul Food have made it one of the publication's most read departments.

Volrath's Contributions to Southern Edition

Recipes:  Broccoli Casserole, Chicken and Dumplings, Southern Fried Cabbage and Squash Fritters appeared in "Soul Food" on July 11, 2007

Recipes:  Country Fried Cube Steak, Lowcountry Boil, MeMa's Old-Fashioned Chocolate Icing and Sausage Breakfast Casserole appeared in "Soul Food" on July 19, 2007


Sherry Volrath and hockey player Colin Pepperall

Following the demise of the Greenville Grrrowl, Sherry sank into a mild depression. After all, she had really enjoyed watching the Grrrowl . . . and Colin Pepperall . . . play at the BI-LO Center!

Author:  Greg Freeman.  Last updated on September 10, 2010.

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