I think this article is flawed. The Mason Dixon line really is the line of demarcation, as far as I'm concerned. I notice a difference right when I cross that line.

As for sweet tea- You can get sweet tea in Pennsylvania of all places. Its just not as commonplace. Its really silly. Richmond is a truly Southern city, and its just north of the "line". Thats ridiculous!

As for Maryland- I do think Maryland has many Southern characteristics and there are many people there who are Southerners, but like Northern Virginia, its more transient and has some northern influences as well.

The True South IMO, begins at Fredericksburg, VA.