August 2022: The Laurel Magazine by The Laurel Magazine of Highlands NC and Cashiers NC

a e

L UR L The Heart of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau for 20 Years

Family Foundation PLATT Celebrates 40 Years in Business pg. 180

Paintings Keep The Love Alive

Cover Artist, Carol Tamplin

August 2022

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CON T E N T S August 2022

13 What To Do

30 It’s a Big Dinner

71 Recreation & Creation 76 Bust Your Butt Falls

89 Arts

106 Patty Calderone Cover, revisited

111 Dining

118 Crossroads Custard & Coldbrew

139 Shopping

112

140 Plateau Picks

155 Lake Toxaway

162 Catatoga Club

171 History

172 Highlands First Gourmet Restaurant

179 Lifestyles & Wellness

197 Women Who Shape the Plateau

211 Giving Back

214 Two Decades-Plus of Service

218 Business

218 Highlands Chamber of Commerce

More Than Just a Home Tour

At a Glance Guides

198

It’s all About Family

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VOLUME TWENTY, ISSUE SEVEN

JANET CUMMINGS Managing Partner janet@thelaurelmagazine.com

MARJORIE CHRISTIANSEN Managing Partner marjorie@thelaurelmagazine.com

MICHELLE MUNGER Art Director mungerclan5@aol.com

SARAH FIELDING Account Manager sarah@thelaurelmagazine.com

LUKE OSTEEN Editor / Writer luke@thelaurelmagazine.com

DONNA RHODES Writer dmrhodes847@gmail.com

MARLENE OSTEEN Writer marlene.osteen@gmail.com

MARY JANE MCCALL Writer mjmccall777@gmail.com

DEENA BOUKNIGHT Writer dknight865@gmail.com

THOMAS CUMMINGS Distribution Manager jothcu@yahoo.com

Publisher’s Note Welcome to August, when Summer is in her glory, and our local Farmers Markets are loaded with the bounty of what’s been a warmer than usual season. Our social calendar is filled-to-bursting as well – this issue is testing the far limits of magazine binding in listing all the activities and events for August. Of course, if it all gets to be too much for you, join our Deena Bouknight for a lovely stroll through hushed emerald solitude; or seek out William McReynolds’ enchanting Gray Catbird, just off the beaten path. Or follow in the examples of a pair of women profiled in this issue – Angela Williams and Ann McKee Austin have shared their passions with their communities and enriched the Plateau for all of us. Sincerely, Janet and Marjorie

Visit us online thelaurelmagazine.com phone 828.526.0173 email info@thelaurelmagazine.com mail Post Office Box 565 Highlands, North Carolina 28741

Contributing Writers: Ann Self, Mary Adair Trumbly, Sue Blair, David Stroud, William McReynolds, Sue Aery, Zach Claxton, Ashby Underwood, and Mary Abranyi. Contributing Photographers: Susan Renfro, Greg Clarkson, Charles Johnson, Peter Ray, Terry Barnes, Ryan Karcher, and Colleen Kerrigan. Copyright © 2022 by The Mountain Laurel, LLC. All rights reserved. Laurel Magazine is published eleven times per year. Reproduction without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publishers and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication subject to Laurel Magazine’s right to edit. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, photographs and drawings. Every effort has been made to assure that all information presented in this issue is accurate, and neither Laurel Magazine nor any of its staff is responsible for advertising errors, omissions, or information that has been misrepresented in or to the magazine. Any substantial errors that are the fault of the magazine will be subject to a reduction or reimbursement of the amounts paid by the advertiser, but in no case will any claim arising from such error exceed the amount paid for the advertisement by the advertiser.

WHAT TO DO Pages 14-66

photo by Susan Renfro

W H AT TO DO

Happiness Happens Month

August is the prime time to recharge your batteries and your Joy. Plus, there’s plenty of Good Eating! ugust is the “Happiness Happens Month.” By declaration, we shall be happy this month. How hard is that?

Augustus was, in Roman times, a lofty title conveying magnificence, reserved for the emperor. Being august does not, however, redeem the month of August for being the hottest month of the year. Hot weather is, we must remember, just what we wished for in the blue cold of last winter. It’s August…suddenly. Bask. Recharge your solar cells. Get out in it but protect your skin. Go visit one of our many waterfalls featured in these pages by Ed Boos, or hike to a summit. The Dog Days of Summer appear in August, referencing not hang-dog high temperatures but the appearance of Sirius, the “Dog Star,” on the horizon at sunrise. Don’t tell your cat. Gladiola and Poppy are August’s flowers, gladiola from the Latin meaning spear. Peridot and Sardonyx are the birthstones. Martha Stewart was born in August. Do we need to know

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these things? What we should know is that August contains National Smile Week, August 5-11. Start practicing now. August has been officially declared the Happiness Happens Month. I’m not making this up. The Secret Society of Happy People (don’t ask, just Google it) declared August to be Happiness Happens Month, in 1998. How good is that?! If that doesn’t ring your bell, August is also National Catfish Month, National Peach Month, and National Sandwich Month. Making peach cobbler this month is patriotic. A fried catfish sandwich? Sounds good to me. Toasted ciabatta with plenty of tartar sauce. One must relish one’s celebratory compliances! What is it about August that makes you think about homemade ice cream on hot peach cobbler, sliced tomato steaks and cantaloupe boats, grilled chicken and potato salad? Maybe it’s all the food days in August. In staccato form:

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• August 1 is National Milkshake Day. • August 3 is National Watermelon Day. • August 10 is National S’mores Day. • August 13 is National Filet Mignon Day. The day explicitly calls for filet mignon tonight. Grilled until black streaked on the outside and pink on the inside. Yum. • August 14 is National Creamsicle Day, • August 15 is National Lemon Meringue Pie Day. • August 17 is Vanilla Custard Day. • The 19th is National Potato Day. There is summer harvest aplenty this month. Relish our peaches and tomatoes. Our bright skies. Heart-warming summer evenings with family and friends. So, it’s Happiness Happens Month: Time to glory in the gifts of August. As if that weren’t enough, more happy days are coming with fall. Ha! by William McReynolds

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‘Neath The

Stars

The sounds of Friday Night Live and Saturdays on Pine are Highlands’ off icial Summer Soundtrack. The concer ts are family-friendly and handicapped accessible.

here’s nothing more satisfying than listening to a favorite song ‘neath the stars – unless it’s also on a cool, North Carolina mountaintop.

In Highlands, you can be there for free every Friday and Saturday night. From now through October weekends, tuck your lawn chair under one arm, snacks under the other, and head out to Friday Night Live and Saturdays on Pine. The 2022 Friday Night Live concerts take place at Highlands Town Square from 6:00 to 8:30 P.M. Saturdays on Pine crank up at 6:00 P.M. at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, and close at 8:30 P.M. Every weekend, that’s five hours of fun and every minute of 16 Aug us t 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

it, gratis, thanks to Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC. Friday Night Live features traditional mountain music. Feel free to join in. Sing, clap, and tap. That’s right. Get on your feet and dance. Your enthusiasm fires up the bands’ energy. The Outdoor Concert Series is brought to you by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC and Friday night shows are recognized by Blue Ridge Music Trails of NC. Visit blueridgemusicnc.com for more information. The musical styles of Friday and Saturday concerts are heartpumping, entertaining, and they feature regional artists, but stylistically, they’re a bit different. Friday is more traditional,

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and Saturday is all about popular music. Here’s what’s in store during August: Friday, August 5 – Kettle; Saturday, August 6 – Jesse Barry & The Jam; Friday, August 12 – Ol’ Dirty Bathtub; Friday, August 19 – The Foreign Landers; Saturday, August 20 – Peggy & Paula; Friday, August 26 – Silly Ridge Trio. by Luke Osteen photo by Colleen Kerrigan

Scan to learn more.

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Porchfest 2022 All of downtown Highlands is the stage for Porchfest 2022, set for 1:00 to 6:00 P.M. Sunday, September 18. For more information or to help, visit highlandsporchfest.com

he Center for Life Enrichment (with support from Visit Highlands NC/The Highlands Chamber of Commerce) is putting together Highlands Porchfest 2022, a one-day, family-friendly musical event that’ll see musical acts performing across the town. Because of wide community support, these performances are free. Highlands Porchfest will be held from 1:00 to 6:00 P.M. Sunday, September 18. Bands, singers, and instrumentalists are participating at no charge to showcase their talents and engage the community (though, of course, tipping is highly encouraged).

“Because Highlands Porchfest will be primarily held downtown, attendees will be able to walk or bike as they move from location to location,” says Center for Life Enrichment Board Member Karen Hunt, who brought the idea for Highlands Porchfest to the board. Beyond monetary donations, CLE is looking for additional musicians and steadfast music loving volunteers to assist us the day of the event. If you’d like to help, email info@highlandsporchfest.com or call the CLE office at (828) 526-8811. by Luke Osteen

Audiences will find performances all over town – The Bascom, 200 Main, Highlands Wine Shoppe, Sotheby’s, First Presbyterian Church of Highlands, the Croquet Lawn at The Lodge at Old Edwards, Town Square, Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, Chambers Realty, Hudson Library, and the Highlands Performing Arts Center. Scan to learn more.

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Go Green. Be

Seen.

A trio of musical sensations will keep the beat going through the hear t of the season. For information, visit villagegreencashiersnc.com/concer ts.

can’t imagine anything more fun than a laid-back, outdoor musical gathering in the summertime. One of the area’s best is Groovin’ on the Green – the free concert series at the Village Green in Cashiers. Held rain or shine, the bangin’ summer-long jam has visitors and locals groovin’ all season long to performances by some of the area’s most entertaining bands. On the schedule for August are three musical groups guaranteed to provide mountain music fans an opportunity to commune, sing, and dance with kindred fans. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, beverages, snacks, and your boogie shoes – though there are vendors there as well. A new addition to Groovin’ this year is the “Rent a Tent” program that offers ten 10 x 10 tent rentals at $100 per tent per event. Contact shelby@cashiersgreen.com for more information. Here a rundown of featured bands and what to look forward to this month (All events start at 6:30 P.M..) Friday, August 12: Zorki w/ Jeff Sipe (Sponsored by Jackson County Parks and Recreation): Cashiers’ hometown favorite– Zorki! Playing as a duo, Zorki is known for his unique style of complex guitar and soothing vocals which hooks audiences of all ages as he makes one guitar sound like a full band. Specializing in acoustic guitar, Zorki performs the music of Stephen Stills, Neil Young, The

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Band, The Grateful Dead, and Bob Dylan. This is a show you will not want to miss! Friday, August 19 – The Wobblers: Going into their 10th year in 2022, The Wobblers are an eight-piece, genre-defying, jazz roots band in the Upstate of South Carolina. The band takes you on a genre trip around the spectrum while always delivering a high-energy professional show. With music mainly born in New Orleans, it’s a sound that brings us back to the brassy horns and second-line rhythms combined with edgy, jazz elements that evoke the likes of Sun Ra and Thelonious Monk. Friday, August 26 – Arnold Hill Band: Arnold Hill is an alternative rock trio based out of NC’s Great Smoky Mountains. Identified by their lyrical storytelling, rich three-part harmonies, and dynamic instrumentation, Arnold Hill brings presence and energy to every stage they play. Their infectious guitars and catchy drumbeats can be heard on their just released album, “How to Run” Visit villagegreencashiersnc.com/concerts for more information about Groovin’. by Marlene Osteen photo by Nick Burrows Photography

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Young musicians will take the stage for Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival’s f inal regular concer ts for its 41st season. For tickets or more information, call (828) 526-9060, or visit h-cmusicfestival.org.

hroughout its 41 seasons, Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival has served as a showcase for promising young musicians who demonstrate every possibility that they’ll rise to the top ranks of this highly competitive genre. That means that over the course of decades, festival audiences have been introduced to the likes of Pianist Alyona Aksyonova and cellist James Waldo, The Eroica Trio, and The Argus Quartet – talents that have since gone on to international prominence. That’s why it makes so much sense that for its closing 2022 performances, the HC Chamber Music Festival is staging Stars of Tomorrow featuring the young musicians of Heifetz International Music Institute on Sunday, July 31, and Monday, August 1. The performances will serve as a showcase for the extraordinary Heifetz students, featuring dazzling solo works in collaboration with acclaimed Heifetz faculty pianists. The Heifetz International Music Institute is located at Mary Baldwin University in Staunton, Virginia. It’s a non-profit organization dedicated to the artistic growth and career development of the most talented and promising young musicians in the world. Through intensive instrumental study and innovative Performance & Communication Training, the

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institute guides musicians to convey the emotion of the music they’re performing, explore their full creative potential, express their individuality, and redefine the concert experience. The novelty of allowing students to take the stage is simply one of the hallmarks of this 2022 season, which has brought music to the Plateau in playful, surprising ways. “In addition to our regular concerts we’re featuring a variety of fun additional programs and events, many free, including an Interlude Concert, our annual Family Concerts and Ice Cream Social, including a new one in Cashiers; classes with the Center for Life Enrichment in Highlands; and of course our popular Salons and Festival Feasts,” says William Ransom, the festival’s Anna and Hays Mershon Artistic Director. The Sunday, July 31, concert will be held at the Highlands Performing Arts Center – 507 Chestnut Street; the Monday, August 1, concert at the Village Green Commons in Cashiers on Frank Allen Road. Tickets may be purchased by calling (828) 526-9060, via email at hccmfnc@gmail.com, or online at h-cmusicfestival.org. by Luke Osteen

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Tapping into Nature

Patrick Weaver

The magic and majesty of our local streams takes the spotlight at the August 30 Village Nature Series entr y at the Village Green Commons.

Working for the NCWRC, Weaver became adept at understanding stream conservation, and he has given many presentations on local conservation as well as served as a river monitor, testing streams for water quality.

Traditionally, these events are held at The Village Green Commons in Cashiers on the last Tuesday of every month during the summer season.

For the August 30 VNS, Weaver brings a wealth of knowledge and fly-fishing experience due to the fact that he currently guides and instructs all of the education classes for Headwaters Outfitters. Plus, Weaver is an avid outdoorsman and spends a great deal of time exploring North Carolina, especially its mountain waterways.

he beauty and appeal of the outdoors is front and center on the Plateau, and many events and activities are centered around nature’s fascination.

The Village Nature Series is co-hosted by The Village Green and Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust and features experts in their field presenting on wildlife, habitats, conservation, and local cultural heritage.

Upcoming August 30 is “Healthy Headwater Streams” presented by fly fishing guide Patrick Weaver, who is also a former high school science teacher and instructor for North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission.

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“My presentation will center around the cold-water streams of Western North Carolina,” said Weaver. “It will present the ecology of cold-water mountain streams and address the biotic and abiotic structures of the river and how they interact. I will also address some areas of possible future concerns – things

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such as sedimentation, invasives, and other possible emerging issues.” The remainder of this year’s VNS includes: • September 27, “Animals We Love to Hate,” Carlton Burke, Carolina Mountain Naturalists; • October 25 “Secret Lives of Bats,” Dr. Rada Petric, director of the UNC Institute for the Environment at the Highlands Field Site. The 2022 Village Nature Series takes place rain or shine, from 5:00 to 6:00 P.M. at the Village Green Commons at The Village Green on the last Tuesday of each month through October. Programs are free and family-friendly, and no registration is needed. by Deena Bouknight

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Funding Music Education

For its 30th Anniversar y, Bel Canto’s September 11 Recital at Highlands Per forming Ar ts Center puts a graceful note on this busy season in this busy year. For information about tickets, call (828) 787-2867.

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he Bel Canto 30th Year Celebration Recital will be held in Highlands on Sunday, September 11, at 4:00 P.M. at the Highlands Performing Arts Center.

This will be followed by dinner at the Highlands Country Club. Bel Canto contributions fully fund music education at the two preschool programs in Highlands, supplement music education at our public schools, fund a college scholarship in the performing arts, and aid in the acquisition of art for special art exhibitions and for The Bascom’s permanent collection. In total, Bel Canto has contributed over $650,000 to these worthy programs. This year’s artists include Soprano Kathryn Henry, who’s grown a devoted following after appearances on stages from the Metropolitan Opera in New York to the Rohm Theatre in Kyoto, Japan. She’s a graduate of the Juilliard School.

Some of her opera credits include roles in The Turn of The Screw, Riders to The Sea, At the Boars Head, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Gianni Schicchi, Le nozze di Figaro, and Suor Angelica. Tenor Joseph Tancredi, who has been lauded by Opera News for his “high notes with a ringing, clarion tone,” is currently pursuing a Professional Studies Certificate in Opera from the Curtis Institute of Music. Earlier credits include roles in Così fan tutte, the title role in Albert Herring, Il barbiere di Siviglia, I due timidi, Eugene Onegin, The Lord of Cries, and The Thirteenth Child. Other credits include L’elisir d’amore and The Student Prince. This past summer, he performed in The Fall of the House of Usher and Der fliegende Holländer.

Acclaimed for her “magnificent color and simplicity” (William Barnewitz, Urban Milwaukee), Ms. Henry’s opera credits include roles in The Turn of the Screw, Die Zauberflöte, Suor Angelica, Hansel and Gretel, Le nozze di Figaro, Roméo et Juliette, and La Bohéme.

Baritone Alex DeSocio, who is a graduate of the prestigious San Francisco Merola Opera Program, has been described by The New York Times as having a “buttery, booming baritone.”

Mezzo-soprano Kathleen Reveille, who has been acclaimed for her “soaring and poised vocals,” is a twice-nominated Best Opera Album of the Year recording artist for her performances with the Warsaw Philharmonic.

Dr. Stephen Dubberly, the Bel Canto maestro for the past 29 years, will accompany the singers. An already recognized master in his field when he began with Bel Canto, Stephen has become a sought after conductor of opera all over the country.

Most recent engagements include roles in La Bohème, Pagliacci, L’elisir d’amore, Roméo et Juliette, and Carmen.

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A BIG

Dinner

There’s plenty to celebrate when Big Brothers Big Sisters stages its “It’s a BIG Dinner” at 6:00 P.M. Tuesday, September 13. Visit bbbswnc.org to learn more about the event and make your contribution.

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ig Brothers Big Sisters of WNC – Cashiers-Highlands is hosting It’s a BIG Dinner, 6:00 P.M. September 13, at the Main Clubhouse at Cullasaja Club. The evening will consist of a three-course meal created by Executive Chef Marie Last, a cocktail hour, live auction, and music by Curtis Blackwell and the Dixie Bluegrass Boys. There’ll also be an opportunity to learn about the life-changing opportunities provided by BBBS and its generous Bigs. As a team who have been associated with Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) mentoring program for young people for over 20 years, we can honestly tell you of the great things we have seen our program do to help guide children in the right direction! But it goes without saying that the work of the BBBS program would be impossible without the help and support of the people of the Plateau.

Curtis Blackwell and the Dixie Bluegrass Boys

We would very much appreciate your support by contributing and purchasing tickets ($75 per person) to the event or sponsoring a

Bigs Appreciation Table for $500. Please see attached link to contribute and learn more about the event. The Dinner and Music event will be our opportunity to shower appreciation for our Bigs and to familiarize you with our exciting new Success 360 Life Skills Initiative. This program is designed with children in mind and structured to provide skills that will benefit them in everyday life. Thank you for considering contributing and supporting the BBBS program. Again, please visit bbbswnc.org to learn more about the event and make your contribution. Big Brothers Big Sisters is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3), organization and your donation is tax deductible. Feel free to contact Danielle Hernandez, Senior Program Coordinator, at cashiers@ bbbswnc.org or (828) 399-9133 with questions. by Danielle Hernandez, Big Brothers Big Sisters of WNC – Cashiers-Highlands

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Serenity Richards

Meet Your Librarian Alber t Carlton-Cashiers Community Librar y is a central player in Southern Jackson County’s social and civic landscape. In this issue, we get to know a bit about the woman who keeps the entire enterprise purring.

erenity Richards is the branch librarian for the Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library. Q: Did you always aspire to become a librarian?

A: Growing up I either wanted to be a singer or a geophysicist. But I was in libraries all the time as a kid. I would get lost in the local history room for hours; they’d have to drag me out with my huge stack of books. Q: What was a former interest/career? A: My B.A. is in theater and music. I worked professionally in theater as a stage manager, carpenter, lighting tech, and general roadie. I’ve also sung professionally all over the world. I continue to keep my toe in both with local groups like the Cashiers Valley Community Chorus and the Western Carolina Community Chorus, and private gigs in the region.

A: This is the first branch librarian position I’ve held. I worked for years as a cataloger in an academic library and spent all of my high school years (and some of my adult ones) as a volunteer for Fontana libraries. Q: What are a few highlights of managing a library? A: Every day is a new adventure. Whether it’s helping someone set up their new phone, helping kids find just the right book for their school report, recommending the perfect summer porch read, or completely redesigning the way you provide public services during a pandemic, the work will never be boring! Q: Do you have a favorite book genre? A: I read a little bit of everything, but right now I’m on an escapist kick. I’ve been binge reading a lot of epic fantasy this summer.

Q: What motivated you to become a librarian and what was the educational path you took to get there?

Q: What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?

A: I’ve volunteered and worked in libraries pretty much nonstop through all of my other professional wanderings. I ended up pursuing my Library Science degree with a focus in digital archiving and public librarianship and haven’t looked back.

A: I’m a rock hound. If I were to drop everything and go back to school today, it would be for geology.

Q: Is this your first branch librarian position?

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by Deena Bouknight Photo by Susan Renfro

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Race for

Literacy

The Twilight 5K Race is set for August 13. If our calculations are correct, that gives you just enough time to get those abs, hamstrings, glutes, and calves into springy shape. And f ind some comfy shoes, too!

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t’s not too late to make plans to join the Highlands Rotary Club for their annual Twilight 5K, held this year on Saturday, August 13 starting at 6:00 P.M. at the Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park. This race is truly fun for the entire family as well as for serious competitors. All proceeds go to The Literacy & Learning Center. The USATF-certified 5k course is a largely flat course that beckons serious runners hoping to improve their times. While serious runners are focusing on improving their times, the less serious among us can join in the fun by walking and strolling, taking a moment to enjoy the scenery along the way. People of all ages will enjoy the chance to take part and join in the community fun. As Rotarian and race organizer Derek Taylor says, “the pandemic is over, it’s time to get out and run!” The completion of the race is just the start of a fun family night at the park. Runners over 21 years of age who complete the race will be entitled to a cold beer, courtesy of The Ugly Dog and High Dive. Children also receive a lightup toy, necklace, or another small memento. All enjoy the concert in the park which follows the race. This year Spalding McIntosh will be the headliner. The cost of registration before race day is $35. Day of race registration is $40. All runners will receive a t-shirt as long as supplies last. As always there will be prizes, including $100 for a new overall course record and $50 for any other age group record. For more details and to register visit highlandstwilightrun.com. by Mary Jane McCall

Mar y A branyi

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Gardens of

Eatin’

The true taste of the Plateau is offered Wednesdays and Saturdays through the season.

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e’re at the peak of summer. Fresh produce is at its Blue Ribbon Best.

It’s time to plant yourself in the midst of all this deliciousness in the Green Market–Locally Grown on the Green, Cashiers’ local market at the Village Green Commons on Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 to 5:00 P.M. And don’t miss The Highlands Marketplace on Saturday mornings at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park from 8:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. At both markets your senses will shout, “You’ve found a Garden of Eatin’!” Now in its sixth year, the Green Market has become a “show window” for local farmers. Everything sold must be produced within a 12-mile radius of Cashiers. As the website boasts, all items are “Home grown, hand-picked, and hand-made.” In Highlands, local farmers, craftspersons, and artists gather under colorful tents selling the bounty of the season.

Each pristine market provides access to locally produced meat, fresh dairy items and eggs, fresh-picked fruits and vegetables, homemade jams and jellies, straight-fromthe-hive-honey, pickles, freshly baked breads and baked goods, and homemade spreads and dips. Listen – I think I hear a jar of pepper jelly calling your name right now. The farm-to-table concept is growing in popularity and these markets offer you easy access to the freshest products available. You’ll enjoy an opportunity to talk to the people who actually grow and produce the food and goods, and probably pick up some helpful tips on how to store, prepare, use, and serve each product. Treat yourself to a unique shopping experience at one of these markets. Taste and see how much better fresh can be. by Donna Rhodes

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Interlude

Concert Series

A respite from the stresses of a hectic Plateau summer, the Interlude Concer t Series is offered at 2:00 P.M. Wednesdays at the First Presby terian Church of Highlands.

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W. Dwight Coleman

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he Interlude Concert Series, which is sponsored by First Presbyterian Church of Highlands, continues with a great lineup for August. All concerts are on Wednesdays at 2:00 P.M. at the church. Featured on August 3 will be Duo Catanza. Dazzling audiences around the globe, Scott Plato and Matthias Young have joined forces to present classical music played on guitars. Originally teacher and student, respectively, the duo has been hailed by critics as “Delightful” and “Amazing.” Duo Catanza released their first album in 2020, Vivaldi: Concerto in D Major RV 93. Maria Margiolakou Richard Clement

Georgia State University vocalists and alumni will perform in the final Interlude concert of the season on August 17. Featured will be Maria Margiolakou, Coloratura Soprano, from Greece; Grammy Award-winning tenor Rick Clement; internationally-acclaimed baritone, W. Dwight Coleman- Director of Vocal and Operatic studies at GSU and Artistic Director for this performance; and Dr. Jonathan Crutchfield, Pianist. There is no charge for the Interlude concerts which constitute a ministry in music to the community. Dress is casual – come as you are. First Presbyterian Church is located at the corner of Main and Fifth Streets. Handicapped accessible entrances are located on Church Street and on Fifth Street. by Angie Jenkins

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Take Home

a Treasure

Sapphire Valley Ar ts and Crafts Festival spans the season with a pair of ar t shows, August 6-7 and October 1-2. For more information, visit sapphirevalleyresor ts.com.

Cashiers Highlands Humane Society’s Stop and Adopt on Saturday, August 6 from 10 :00 A.M – 2:00 P.M.

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he artists of Sapphire Valley Arts and Crafts Festival present the second and third art show and family events, August 6-7, and October 1-2, from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Fill your senses with mouth-watering aromas from food vendors while you enjoy live music that your toe-tapping feet simply can’t resist. Then stroll down rows of fine jewelry, handmade crafts, quality folk art, mountain delights, and much more. All this will be featured at Sapphire Valley Athletic Field, 3 miles east of Cashiers on Highway 64. Free admission. Free parking. Wait! There’s more to explore. The Humane Society has another brand of loveable Art to pick from: pups and kitties. These critters need a home before winter, and you never know how many 3-dog nights there’ll be in January. Next to vendor tents, the resort playground supplies fun outdoor playtime for the entire family. Kids can also enjoy Corn Hole, Kerplunk, and Buckets of Bubble Mix for your

youngsters to blow bubbles! Authentic Appalachian art and craft are sought-after nationwide. We’re lucky to live in the midst of the exceptionally gifted artists who produce award-winning work. On these two weekends local artisans will gather at the Sapphire shows, practically a stone’s throw away from your home. Fall in love with one (or more) of their creations. Make it yours. Let your friends and family ooh and ahh, then relish your hand-crafted keepsake forever. Take advantage of these two perfect weekends for family memory-making outings. Take yourself. Take a friend. Take your whole family. And be sure to take home a treasure. For more information, visit sapphirevalleyresorts.com. Bring the kids, dogs, and explore a mountaintop of fabulous art, pets, and fun! by Donna Rhodes

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I Grazing Glorious

The Center for Life Enrichment’s August curriculum explores the rich possibilities found in 2022’s latest food and drink trends.

n the past, some associated the Center for Life Enrichment with mostly intellectual pursuits.

But wow – Look at it now! CLE’s got a curriculum chockful of cuisine and alcoholic drink how-to’s, revved up and ready to rock this summer! Pick your favorites from the following summer sessions. They will keep your instant pots, skillets, beverage glasses, and covered casseroles sizzling and singing: On August 1, from 10:00 A.M. to Noon, it’s The Cheese Biscuit Queen Tells All. Some Southern cooks keep their prized family recipes under lock and key, but not Mary Martha Greene. Why? She says that few things can truly be kept secret in the South and recipes, like cheese biscuits, are meant to be shared. So many stories could be written about Greene’s Aunt Mimi’s cheese biscuits – the countries they

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visited, and the lies, half-truths, cheating, and conniving of small children (not to mention grown adults) to get them. Martha, consummate entertainer, will lead a discussion, tell a tall tale or two and conduct a book-signing, while you sample her famous biscuits. This will be staged at the CLE Lecture Hall, and cost is $25 for CLE Members and $35 for non-members. Bourbon Basics is offered from 4:00 to 6:00 P.M., August 3. You’ll learn to taste bourbon like an expert when you join Louisville-based bourbon authority Susan Reigler for a Bourbon Basics tasting. She’ll introduce you to what sets bourbon apart from the other world whiskeys and to three distinct bourbon styles – traditional, wheated, and bottled-in-bond. You’ll also learn about the fascinating history of each brand tasted and you’ll enjoy light appetizers. This will be held at a private residence,

W H AT TO DO and cost is $90/100. If you’re curious about the secrets of clever bartenders, be sure to attend The Art of Mixology: Making the Classics with a Spin, 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. on August 18.

the Instant Pot’s controls and features such as sauté, slow cook and pressure cook, cooking times, and pressure release options. Learn how to make Spicy Asian Pork, no-stir ground grits, broths, and dried beans in fraction of the time they would normally take using conventional cooking.

Modern classic cocktails are often derived from popular classic cocktails, but they have interesting twists in ingredients that make them a new CLE’s got a curriculum chockful of cuisine cocktail altogether. This will be and alcoholic drink how-to’s, revved up offered at the CLE Lecture Hall and and ready to rock this summer! cost is $60/70. If you’ve been hesitant to fully embrace the potentials of the latest kitchen innovation, join CLE for Instant Pot 101: Conquer Your Fear of Pressure Cookers, noon to 2:00 P.M. August 24. Learn to make the most of this time saving small appliance. The class will include an explanation of how it works, what to cook in it, and recipes to take home. There will be an overview of

This will be held at a private residence, and cost is $30/$40.

likely that most of us started our love for wine by wanting to experience something new, something unexpected, and something a little outside of our comfort zones. This program is for wine lovers who want to experience wine with fresh eyes. It’s for wine enthusiasts who believe that wine is a never-ending journey, and that the wine world is endlessly abundant and generous. This will be staged at a private residence, and cost is $60/70. by Donna Rhodes

Closing out the month is Unusual Wines, stretched out over two days – 3:00 to 5:00 P.M. Tuesday, August 30, and Wednesday, August 31. The first day will explore White Wines, and the second, Reds. It’s

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More Than Just

a Home Tour

The 25th Annual Cashiers Designer Showhouse, set for August 26 through September 4, is a deep dive into gracious Plateau Living. Learn more at cashiershistoricalsociety.org or email CDS@ cashiershistoricalsociety.org.

Drew English

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he 25th Annual Cashiers Designer Showhouse is a classic mountain retreat located this year in High Hampton Club. The fundraising event benefits Cashiers Historical Society.

The Showhouse is open from Friday, August 26, through Sunday, September 4. Besides an opportunity to view the “Tradition Reimagined” home, featured speakers will share expertise and insight: Jason Bell, of Blackberry Design, will present Honoring Tradition, Celebrating Innovation, Monday, August 29, at 2:00 P.M. at The Pavilion at High Hampton; Keith Meacham will present Entertaining at Home: An Exercise in Disaster & Delight, Wednesday, August 31, during a noon luncheon at The Chattooga Club. Also scheduled in August and early September: Friday, August 26, 2:00 P.M. Nellie Howard Ossi presents Making the Classics Cool Again; Saturday, August 27, 1:00 P.M. Mary Palmer Dargan will provide Ten Tips to Create a Mountain Chic Garden Party; Sunday, August 28, 4:00 P.M. Ann Strub leads an Artist Demonstration; Monday, August 29, 4:00 P.M. Carroll Rivers provides an Artist Demonstration;

Tuesday, August 30, 2:00 P.M., Carlton Chamblin offers The History of Shrubs in Sipping Vinegars and How to Make Them; Tuesday, August 30, 4:00 P.M. Laura Moser leads an Artist Demonstration; Wednesday, August 31, 4:00 P.M. Penny Pollack leads an Artist Demonstration; Thursday, September 1, 2:00 P.M. Sister Schubert demonstrates A Pan of Rolls that Changed the World for the Better; Friday, September 2, 2:00 P.M. Drew English, the Resident Gardener at the Historic High Hampton Dahlia Garden, shares his vast knowledge about Blooms; Saturday, September 3, 2:00 P.M. Laura Sullivan shows How Furniture Can Impact Your Health; Saturday, September 3, 4:00 P.M. Sue Fazio leads an Artist Demonstration; Sunday, September 4, 2:00 P.M. Karen Weihs presents An Artist Demonstration; There are tickets required for the Jason Bell lecture ($75) and for the Keith Meacham luncheon presentation ($100). All the other presentations will be held at The Village Green and are free and open to the public. by Deena Bouknight

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Perusing an

Antique Show

It’s no myster y why the Cashiers Annual Antique Show has been a Red Letter Event on the Plateau’s calendar for the last 44 years. Find out for yourself August 5 through 7 at the Village Green Commons.

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he Cashiers Annual Antique Show, August 5-7, at the Village Green Commons in Cashiers offers something for everyone – collectors, antique afficionados, and newbies alike. Show manager Hazel Giles said she has been organizing the show for 15 years, but she has exhibited at the show for 43 years.

statuary, fountains, cast iron furnishings, and more will be on display at the Garden Stone Art and Antiques, and two massive tents with interlocking floors will house 26 exhibitors showcasing a myriad of antiques as well. Plus, the Chips Away glass repair station as well as Lost Antiques will be housed in the Pavilion. The history of antiques is

fascinating, and it helps us understand our country and other countries.

She said a mixed bag of people attend the three-day show. “Some people are just in love with antiques, like I am. Some might want to get many of their Christmas gifts, or they may want to start a collection. Just shopping for antiques at a show like this helps those who are not familiar with antiques learn more about them…the historical ties. Seeing antiques from America and around the globe helps people relate to history and the changes that have occurred in different eras. The history of antiques is fascinating, and it helps us understand our country and other countries. And to see what items and styles are tried and true and what things were discarded or improved is so interesting.” The 44th Annual Antique Show takes place at the main building that is part of the Commons, called Lewis Hall. An array of

Giles added that “a lot of people coming to the show are collectors, but a lot are veterans. Some people even bring a list of needs and a measuring tape with the intention of finding a piece to fill a space. There are various reasons to shop for antiques and ways to use antiques. They are not just for sitting on a shelf or in a corner.” Each of the show’s exhibitors offers different arrangements about pick up an/or delivery of sold items. Some smaller items can be carried out. And most exhibitors take cash and/ or credit cards and checks. Visit cashiersbenefitantiqueshow. com for more information. by Deena Bouknight

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HCP Presents

Night Watch

There’s murder right nex t door when the Highlands Cashiers Players stage Night Watch at the Highlands Per forming Ar ts Center, August 25 through September 4. For tickets or more information, visit highlandsper formingar ts. com/hcp; or call (828) 526-8084. Pictured left to right: Gardner Davis, Susan Kent, Robin Phillips, Julie Harris, Craig Eister, Michael Vavrek, Nick Sharp, Lydia Hitchcock, and Director Michael Lanzilotta. Not pictured: Randy Lucas

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espite being shut down for two years due to Covid, the Highlands Cashiers Players were determined to stay visible, and hungry to create – and sure enough, they have survived! Later this month they will launch their latest production, Night Watch, a play by Lucille Fletcher. As play Director Michael Lanzilotta said, “Opening this season with a suspense story will hopefully reinvigorate the community in supporting community theater. Our all-volunteer team is dedicated to bringing entertainment to our Plateau.” Fletcher may best be remembered for her play, Sorry, Wrong Number; but Night Watch, once a movie starring Elizabeth Taylor, has no less of an illustrious past. First seen on Broadway in 1972, it was praised as a long-awaited American thriller, comparable to the mysteries of Britain’s Agatha Christie. The play tells the tale of Elaine Wheeler (played by Julie Harris) whom one night during a raging storm tells her husband, John (Craig Eister) that from their living room window she thinks she has seen a murder being committed in the deserted house next door. John calls the police, but a search of the old house turns up nothing. Elaine’s terror continues to grow, and shortly thereafter she claims to see another body – this time of a woman.

By now skeptical, the police ignore her pleas and her husband fearing that Elaine is on the brink of a nervous breakdown calls a psychiatrist, Dr. Tracy Lake (Robin Phillips). The plot moves quickly from here. Elaine’s old friend Blanche (Susan Kent), and the sinister next-door neighbor, Allan (Pastor Randy Lucas), and the family maid, Helga (Lydia Hitchcock) all contribute to the deepening mystery. With twists and turns, Night Watch reveals its truths slowly, culminating in a riveting climax. (Starring in other roles are Lt. Walker played by Michael Vavrek, Patrolman Vanelli played by Gardner Davis, and Sam Hoke played by Nick Sharp.) Director Lanzilotta has a longtime affiliation and affection for the theater – including the Midtown Alliance Theatre and has directed previous productions for Highlands Cashiers Players. There will be eight performances of the play from August 25 through 28 and September 1 through 4. Refreshments will be available during intermission. The Highlands-Cashiers Players are an all-volunteer, not-forprofit organization that welcomes both inexperienced and practiced actors all the same. by Marlene Osteen photo by Susan Renfro

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Randall Atcheson

Returns

The for tunes of The Literacy & Learning Center will rise considerably with an October 9 benef it concer t by pianist Randall Atcheson. Visit maconncliteracy.org or call (828) 526-0863 for more information.

Randall Atcheson

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oncert pianist Randall Atcheson will be visiting Highlands to benefit The Literacy & Learning Center in October.

Atcheson was a child prodigy who entered Samford University at 12 years old and who’s made an impressive career as an organist, pianist, and composer. He was accepted into The Juilliard School where he became the only student in the history of Juilliard allowed to pursue and receive simultaneous degrees in piano and organ performances. Atcheson was the winner of the first Juilliard Organ Competition and subsequently gave the premiere performance on the new pipe organ in Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center. In December 2014, Atcheson performed his 12th solo concert at Carnegie Hall. Atcheson’s recording career began following his New York debut on both piano and organ at Alice Tully Hall. He has recorded a total of 16 albums featuring classical music as well as his unique arrangements of sacred music as featured on Amazing Grace. His Ivory Christmas and True Love albums prove his ability to present familiar songs in a lush, captivating style. He has recorded on the Word, Windham Hill, PolyGram, and RCA labels. His heavy concert schedule had taken him to five continents. He has performed at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris and Blenheim Palace, England, and has made much-acclaimed

piano debuts in Sydney; Jerusalem; and Rio de Janeiro. Atcheson has also played for President Obama and has performed for such artists as Mick Jagger, Kathie Lee Gifford, Phil Collins, James Taylor, and Diana Ross. His gift of communicating the beauty of music in various forms has led to a decidedly versatile career as a much-sought-after artist in the classics as well as in pop and the sacred repertoire. The concert, which will be held at Highlands Performing Arts Center on October 9, will benefit The Literacy & Learning Center’s many free educational programs. The mission of The Literacy & Learning Center is to enrich lives and expand the knowledge of children, adults, and families through diverse educational programs that advance literacy in its many forms and to promote lifelong learning, which results in an informed and empowered community. by Jenni Edwards, The Literacy & Learning Center

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Mountain Theatre Company’s Sentimental Journey is a reverent, raucous visit to the USO Canteen Shows of World War II – August 12 through September 4. Get your tickets at mountaintheatre.com.

s Mountain Theatre Company just closed a wildly successful production of Jersey Boys, their 2022 season opener at The Highlands Playhouse, they are already hard at work on their next production. Up next on the historic Playhouse stage is Sentimental Journey, a unique and nostalgic production that pays tribute to the legendary USO shows of World War II. Filled with classic 1940s songs, soldiers, starlets, and sensational swing dancing, this toe-tapping, finger snapping, high-stepping musical revue is one that you don’t want to miss! Sentimental Journey follows The Byrd Sisters, a singing trio of starlets, as they perform for love and country. Celebrate a time when all of America and Great Britain was listening and dancing to the same music. It features over 40 classic hits of the 1940s including the title number, Sentimental Journey, as well as Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree, Almost Like Being In Love, Smoke Gets In Your Eyes, It Had to be You, Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, and many more. Sentimental Journey tells a story of the war through the lens of the united Allied powers as the world came together to uphold the values of freedom in this touching tribute to veterans and an entire generation who

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answered the call. Written by Mountain Theatre Company’s Executive Artistic Director Scott Daniel, Sentimental Journey has had a long road to Highlands. Its world premiere was produced at The Showpalace Dinner Theatre in Hudson, Florida, in 2011. In 2019, this beautiful and emotional music revue went on to play a sold out run at the esteemed Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the largest theater festival in the world. A successful run at the Edinburgh Fringe can make or break a show. Shows that have premiered at this famed festival have gone on to become well known, household names. Come see the next step in this production’s journey as Sentimental Journey premieres on the Highlands Playhouse stage. Mountain Theatre Company’s production of Sentimental Journey will run at the Highlands Playhouse from August 12 through September 4, Wednesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 P.M., and Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 P.M. by Lindsay Garner Hostetler, Director of Marketing and Outreach, Mountain Theatre Company

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Historical

Happenings

A pair of events, Big Hats & Bow Ties and The Dahlia Festival, recall a more gracious age on the Plateau. For more information on either, please visit the Historical Society’s website at highlandshistor y.com or call (828) 787-1050.

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ighlands Historical Society is hitting its stride this summer and they invite everyone to join them in two of its biggest events of the season. The first is their major fundraiser, Big Hats and Bow Ties, the eagerly anticipated and always enjoyed annual brunch to be held on Sunday, August 7, at 12:30 P.M. This brunch is a homage to the legendary hostess powers of Doyenne Annie Linn Armor, who was known in the 60s and 70s for her Sunday pancake brunches. An invitation to one of her brunches was much sought after and guests were treated like royalty. Still fondly remembered after all these years, the Historical Society delights in bringing the tradition back. The event is hosted by George Lanier, in the reconstructed home of Mrs. Armor, which was originally built in 1915. This home features a panoramic view toward Blue Valley and South Carolina, and an exquisitely manicured lawn, perfect for a relaxed brunch with friends – wearing big hats and bow ties, in case you

hadn’t guessed. Hats will be supplied if you don’t have one you feel is suitable for such an occasion. Tickets are $125 per person. The festive Dahlia Festival returns on September 10 and 11. The theme this year is The Gilded Age, and once again individuals, groups, gardeners, garden clubs, and dahlia enthusiasts will be displaying vignettes throughout town at areas of interest with an emphasis on historical sites. These creative and beautiful creations will feature dahlias and native plants, and perhaps even a humorous prop or two. Keys will be in place to direct people on this walking tour and each display will be named giving credit to the creators. There will also be a judged, single bloom dahlia show for amateur growers on Saturday, September 10 at The Bascom. These single bloom flowers will be on display to the public on Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 until 4:00 P.M. by Mary Jane McCall

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Explore Mountain

Art & Craft

Highlands Mountaintop Rotar y Ar t and Craft Show, set for August 27-28 at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, promises the creations of 80 talented regional ar tists.

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or 17 years residents and visitors of the surrounding region have flocked to the Highlands Mountaintop Rotary Art and Craft Show.

It’s time to mark your calendar: Saturday and Sunday, August 27-28, 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., both days, for booth-after-booth of eye-popping delight. The show is held at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. Arrive early for parking and please avoid blocking the ATM for obvious reasons! The blend of artists, vendors, and products changes every show, so there’s always something new to experience. Visit your annual favorites while you enjoy many new vendors and products, among them something you’ll want to meet and eat: hand-prepared Cajun Sausages. Mmm. The aroma will make you long for a bowl full of red beans and rice. Pair that with Chile Today & Hot Tamale which specializes in hot sauces and hot pepper jellies. Add mouth-watering cookies and crackers from Bits’n Pieces – and your party table is set. How about lamps made out of found objects? Some are elegant, some funny, some mind-blowing. Don’t miss the delicate quilled art, narrow strips of paper fashioned into a lovely variety of motifs.

If you’re a fan of essential oil blends for mood-boosting, sleepimprovement, inflammation-reduction, headache-relief, you’ll find a match for every need. How about CBD oils? The organic Appalachian Growers in Cowee Valley offers CBD products, and you can get it with Delta 8. Well-known Highlands Photographer Cynthia Strain, creator of the original show, has watched her inspiration bloom into one of the most popular events of the summer. Now, with the support of the Highlands Chamber, Rotary, and enthusiastic vendors and shoppers, this last show of 2022 promises to be one of the best ever. Cynthia says, “I want the show to be a destination that folks can’t resist. Supporting arts and crafts in the mountains is a top priority. And we make sure the participants meet the highest standard.” To learn more, call (828) 318-9430. Visit Facebook: Highlands Mountaintop Rotary Art & Craft Show, or mountaintopshow. com. On the website you can fill out a form if you want to take part in the show. by Donna Rhodes photo by Colleen Kerrigan

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Concert &

Cuisine

The Bascom kicks up its heels with its Concer t and Cuisine event at The Farm at Old Edwards – 6:00 P.M. Monday, August 29. Tickets are $600 each and may be purchased at thebascom.org/ concer tandcuisine.

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Deas-Guyz

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t’s a festive affair, a lavish extravaganza, an evening that has it all – lush, verdant setting, luscious, refined fare, and jubilant live music. It is the second annual Concert and Cuisine fundraiser for The Bascom, on Monday, August 29, beginning at 6:00 P.M. at The Farm at Old Edwards. As Bascom board member and event chair Nancy Dyleski said, “This elegant and inspired fundraiser champions the Bascom and its mission of supporting living artists and arts education in the heart of the Plateau.” Certainly, one reason to attend is the gala’s spectacular setting in The Pavilion at The Farm at Old Edwards. By any standard, the venue is a delight to the eye. With broad doors opening up from the adjacent Barn, the indoor/outdoor area is bordered by covered arbors and gardens blossoming with apple and pear trees, exotic wildflowers and laurel. Inside iron chandeliers. wooden beams, and a vast stone wood-burning fireplace decorate the space, while long tables are adorned with huge dramatic floral centerpieces and oversized hurricane lamps. Reason enough to buy a ticket is the live performance by DeasGuyz, a six-member band from Hilton Head, South Carolina. Formed over two decades ago by band leader Reggie Deas, the six-member band are Motown and R & B defined intermixed with Blues, Pop, Rock, Reggae and Dance beats. The range

of musical selections simply sizzles –Luther Vandross, The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Earth Wind & Fire, to Smokey Robinson – songs that make you want to dance. Music so happy and euphoric you can’t help but burst out the disco moves. Old Edwards Executive Chef Chris Huerta and Executive Banquet Chef Daniel Chase have pulled out all the stops, creating a refined menu of elevated seasonal Southern dishes certain to dazzle for the seated dinner. To start, passed hors d’oeuvres include Madison’s Pimento Cheese with house-baked buttermilk crackers; local melon variation with house-cured duck prosciutto and buttermilk fried lobster tail lollipops with Jack Daniels Honey Glaze. From the gardens and farms at Old Edwards, there’s a salad of marinated heirloom tomatoes. Luscious main courses follow including Piment d’Esplette seared diver scallops with Chardonnay cream and micro arugula and pan-seared medallion of beef tenderloin with fried shallot rings and a Cabernetshallot jus. (More menu items are still to be announced.) Concert and Cuisine is The Bascom’s signature gala event, providing key support to their annual program and operating expenses. So, don your finest festive attire, slip on those dancing shoes and join the party. Complimentary valet parking is available.

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SingerSongwriter

Nicole Witt

Singer/Songwriter Nicole Witt brings her soulful sound to the HighlandsCashiers Plateau at an Orchard Sessions concer t, August 17 at The Farm at Old Edwards. For updates and to book online, visit OldEdwardsHospitality.com/ OrchardSessions.

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et ready to tap your toes and sway to the music of singer/ song writer Nicole Witt on Wednesday, August 17, during the live Orchard Sessions concert series at The Farm at Old Edwards.

than just writing a song.”

A celebrated part of the Nashville music scene, Witt has received national acclaim in the country, bluegrass and Christian music genres – writing songs for artists including Kenny Rogers, George Strait, Lauren Alaina, Rodney Atkins, and Ellie Holcomb.

Her music comes from the soul and her musical upbringing; from her father, a square dancer on the famed Ozark Jubilee television program, and from her grandparents, bluegrass musicians. At six-years-old she was playing the piano and by eight years of age she had grabbed the fiddle. Giving credence to the teachings of her grandparents, she received the International Bluegrass Song of the Year Award in 2011 and in 2014 she was nominated by the Gospel Music Association for Country Song of the Year.

There’s something striking about Witt when she’s on stage – her forceful empathetic playing extends well beyond the precincts of country music to encompass the likes of Adele, Patty Griffin, and Tricia Yearwood. Whether behind the piano or upfront with a guitar or fiddle, her tender phrasing conveys a rare level of emotion and sincerity. As one writer described, “When Nicole picks up the fiddle, the crowd can be prepared for fun. Like the sound of wheels on a smooth train track, she slides through each song without missing a beat.”

She has spent the last 10 years writing and touring, building her career as an artist and songwriter. In the last three years she’s toured the country, performing over 200 dates opening for Kenny Chesney, Old Dominion, Trace Adkins, Billy Currington, and the Bacon Bros. Her newest artistic initiative is a collaborative effort titled Six One Five Collective – the creative brainstorm of Michael Logen, Nicole Witt, Sarah Darling and Shelly Fairchild – four artists that are steeped in the musical mix of Country, Americana, Folk, and Pop.

More than just a gorgeous voice, its Witt’s interpretation of each song that connects her to her audience. It’s a sound that inspires a range of feelings; a reaction she attributes to her song writing techniques. “I try and write down what I know. I listen and study the iconic writers and artists that came before me. I respect the craft and realize there is a whole lot more going on

As is well known to Plateau music lovers, the Orchard Sessions are a rare opportunity to connect simultaneously and virally to nature and a performing artist. The show begins at 6:00 P.M. and concludes around sunset at 8:00 P.M. There is a $40 cover charge for the public. Every ticket includes light bites and a cash bar.

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Afternoon

Fundraiser

Highlands Emergency Council Staff and Volunteers pictured left to right, front row : Cynthia Schultz, Delores Barnes, Mary Ann Creswell, Mildred Ramey, and Marie Johnson, Second row Jeff Horowitz, Jon Flowers, and Jenny Bryson

The vital work of Highlands Emergency Council will get a boost when it stages its big fundraiser at KelseyHutchinson Founders Park on Saturday, August 20.

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ighlands Emergency Council, founded in 1985, offers an afternoon of music, food, a raffle, and a silent auction – all for the purpose of raising funds to assist at-risk individuals and families securing basic needs. The Lisa Boone Band will play at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on Saturday, August 20, from noon to 3:00 P.M. The event is free to the public and monetary donations can be specifically allocated for a variety of needs, including food and fuel. Former substitute teacher and native Highlander Mary Anne Creswell has managed grants and projects for Highlands Emergency Council, and she explained that what started as a group of local people gathering for community fellowship, primarily with the purpose harvesting apples and produce to preserve, evolved into an organization meeting needs. “If there was a death or if a fire destroyed a person’s home, for example, this group would give preserved foods but then also would dispense donated furnishings and household items,” said Creswell, whose family has lived in Highlands for many generations. “Now we have a building on Poplar Street with a warehouse for furnishings, household items, clothing,

and food. We have an office, and we are open every day but Sunday, usually from 8:00 A.M. until about 1:00 or 2:00 P.M. in the afternoon.” Manna officially helped Highlands Emergency Council establish a food bank, and then an individual’s need for fuel led to the development of a fuel assistance program. “As we are able to, we fill up tanks for the winter,” she said, adding that the organization’s motto is: “No one should go to bed hungry or cold in the Highlands’ area.” She pointed out, “As long as it’s given to us, then we are privileged to dispense it to other people.” Individuals who visit the Highlands Emergency Council site must fill out an application and show proof of income because Creswell noted, “Unfortunately, there are people who will take advantage of what we offer, and we need to have food and items available for people who are truly in need.” Anyone interested in volunteering and/or donating can visit Highlands Emergency Council at 71 Poplar Street. by Deena Bouknight

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A ndrea Gabbard

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AU G U S T “August of another summer, and once again, I am drinking the sun, and the lilies again are spread across the water.” – Mary Oliver

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. CLE Lecture: Cheese Biscuit Queen Tells All, 10 AM, Lecture Hall. HCCMF Concert, 5 PM, Village Green Commons.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. The Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM.

The Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Locally Grown on The Green, 2 - 5 PM, Village Green Commons. Interlude Concert, 2 PM, Highlands First Presbyterian Church. CLE Lecture: Bourbon Basics, 10 AM, Lecture Hall. Buck’s Cafe Wine Series 5:30 to 7:30 P.M. Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM. Highlands Wine Shoppe Wine Tastings, 4:30 - 6:30 PM. Zahner Conservation Lecture, 6 PM, Highlands Nature Center Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 PM, The High Dive.

Mountain Findings-Highlands Open 10 AM - 1 PM. Cashiers Annual Antique Show, Village Green Common. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM. Friday Night Live concert, 6 PM, Highlands Town Square.

Cashiers Annual Antique Show, Village Green Commons. Sapphire Valley Arts and Crafts Festival, 10 AM-4 PM. Big Hats and Bow Ties, 12:30 PM, Highlands Historical Society. HCCMF GershonCohn Final Gala and Dinner Party Concert, 5 PM, PAC.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. The Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM. Concerts on the Slopes, Sapphire Valley Community Center.

The Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Locally Grown on The Green, 2 - 5 PM, Village Green Commons. Buck’s Cafe Wine Series 5:30 to 7:30 P.M. Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM. Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust exhibition, The Bascom. reception 5:00 PM. Zahner Conservation Lecture, 6 PM, Highlands Nature Center Sentimental Journey, 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse. Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 PM, The High Dive.

Mountain Findings open 10 AM - 1 PM. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM. Kinross Trunk Show, Wit’s End. Elizabeth Locke Trunk Show, Acorns. Friday Night Live concert, 6 PM, Highlands Town Square. Groovin’ on the Green, 6:30 PM, Village Green Sentimental Journey, 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse.

Elizabeth Locke Trunk Show, Acorns. Sentimental Journey, 2 & 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. The Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM.

Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Locally Grown on The Green, 2 - 5 PM, Village Green Commons Interlude Concert, 2 PM, Highlands First Presbyterian Church. Buck’s Cafe Wine Series 5:30 to 7:30 P.M. Orchard Sessions Outdoor Concert, 6 PM, The Farm. Sentimental Journey, 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse. Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. The Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM. CLE Lecture: Art of Mixology, 4 PM, Lecture Hall. Highlands Wine Shoppe Wine Tastings, 4:30 - 6:30 PM. Zahner Conservation Lecture, 6 PM, Highlands Nature Center Sentimental Journey, 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse. Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 PM, The High Dive.

Mountain Findings Open 10 AM - 1 PM. Michel Hofman Trunk Show, Acorns. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM. Friday Night Live concert, 6 PM, Highlands Town Square. Groovin’ on the Green, 6:30 PM, Village Green. Sentimental Journey, 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church.

The Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Beth Poindexter Trunk Show, 11 AM-5 PM, Josephine’s. CLE Lecture: Instant Pot 101, noon. Locally Grown on The Green, 2 PM, Village Green Commons. Sentimental Journey, 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse. Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Beth Poindexter Trunk Show, 11 AM-5 PM, Josephine’s. Highlands Wine Shoppe Wine Tastings, 4:30 - 6:30 PM. Zahner Conservation Lecture, 6 PM, Highlands Nature Center Highlands-Cashiers Community Players Nightwatch, 7:30 PM, PAC. Sentimental Journey, 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse. Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 PM, The High Dive.

25th Annual Cashiers Designer Showhouse. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. The Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM. Beth Poindexter Trunk Show, 11 AM-5 PM, Josephine’s. Southern Bungalow, Acorns. Friday, Night Live, 6 PM, Town Sq. Groovin’ on the Green, 6:30 PM, Village Green Sentimental Journey, 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse. Highlands-Cashiers Community Players Nightwatch, 7:30 PM, PAC.

5th Annual Cashiers Designer Showhouse. Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Beth Poindexter Trunk Show, 11 AM-5 PM, Josephine’s. Art League of Highlands-Cashiers meeting, 4:30 PM, The Bascom. Concert Cuisine, 6 PM, The Farm at Old Edwards, benefitting The Bascom.

5th Annual Cashiers Designer Showhouse. The Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, CLE Lecture: Unusual Wines. Beth Poindexter Trunk Show, 11 AM-5 PM, Josephine’s. Locally Grown on The Green, 2 - 5 PM, Village Green Commons. Art Benefit, drawing 5 PM, Betsy Paul Real Estate. Sentimental Journey, 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse. Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub.

View the complete Highlands Cashiers Plateau Calendar

Michel Hofman Trunk Show, Acorns. Sentimental Journey, 2:00 & 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse.

5th Annual Cashiers Designer Showhouse. Mountaintop Rotary Art & Craft Show, 10 AM-5 PM, KelseyHutchinson Founders Park Southern Bungalow, Acorns. Beth Poindexter Trunk Show, 11 AM-5 PM, Josephine’s. Highlands-Cashiers Community Players Nightwatch, 2:30 PM, PAC. Sentimental Journey, 2:00 & 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse. Highlands Playhouse. Sunday Supper, at The Farm.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. The Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM. Beth Poindexter Trunk Show, 11 AM-5 PM, Josephine’s. CLE Lecture: Unusual Wines, 3 PM. Village Nature Series, 5 PM, Village Green Commons.

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Highlands Marketplace, 8 AM - 12:30 PM. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Cashiers Annual Antique Show, Village Green Commons. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM. Sapphire Valley Arts and Crafts Festival, 10 AM-4 PM. Nancy Lichtman, Acorns. Saturdays on Pine, 6 PM. Concert, 6 PM, Town & Country. Bluegrass Music, Cashiers Valley Smokehouse. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Highlands Marketplace, 8 AM - 12:30 PM. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Kinross Trunk Show, Wit’s End. Elizabeth Locke Show, Acorns. Saturdays on Pine, 6 PM. Concert, 6 PM, Town & Country. Twilight 5K, 6 PM, Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park Darron Cardosa, Tales of a Weary Waiter, 7:30 PM, PAC. Sentimental Journey, 2:00 & 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Highlands Marketplace, 8 AM - 12:30 PM. Michel Hofman, Acorns. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Bookworm, 11 AM - 3 PM. HEC’s Lisa Boone Band Concert, Noon, Kelsey Hutchinson Park. Saturdays on Pine, 6 PM. Concert, 6 PM, Town and Country General Store. Sentimental Journey, 2:00 & 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Mountaintop Art & Craft Show, 10 AM-5 PM, K-H Founders Park. Cashiers Designer Showhouse. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Beth Poindexter Trunk Show, 11 AM-5 PM, Josephine’s. Saturdays on Pine, 6 PM. Concert, 6 PM, Town & Country. Sentimental Journey, 2:00 & 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse. Highlands-Cashiers Community Players Nightwatch, 7:30 PM, PAC. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

W H AT TO DO

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RECREATION & CREATION Pages 72-86

photo by Susan Renfro

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Outdoors

But Not Out of the Way

The Bascom’s shaded emerald trail is a walk on the Wild Side, right in downtown Highlands.

cross an old-fashioned covered bridge on Highlands Road just a literal hop, skip, and a jump from Main Street is The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts Winkler Sculpture & Nature Trail. The long name belies the trail’s length. It’s actually a short stroll, but one that is densely packed with visual interest. And for an individual, a couple, or parents with little ones who desire to be out of doors but not in remote wilderness, this trail is ideal. Before entering the trail, it behooves first timers to peek into the historic corn-husk shed, a leftover relic of the land that once hosted a former horse farm (Crane’s Stable). Also on the grounds are various contemporary outdoor sculptures.

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But stepping onto the trail is akin to entering magical woodlands – if one’s imagination ignites. Past the tiered, stone sitting area, perfect for reflection, a picnic, or a nap, the trail narrows and becomes shaded by rhododendron and mountain laurel. Lining the trail is an abundance of ferns and other native plants. Within a few yards is a covered area with a hand-crafted table and benches to entice teleworkers, creative writers, homeschoolers, and more. And the slightly descending stream adds just enough of a sensory experience as water flows over moss-covered rocks. Add to or make anew a rock cairn at the stream to test adeptness at balancing varied-sized stones. Back on the trail is a StoryWalk, a succession of outdoor placards featuring an illustrated children’s book. Currently, the

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book is by Macon County author Claire Suminski as part of Suminski Books’ Cowee Sam series. Also, along the filtered-sunlit path are creative benches made of reclaimed wood. Plenty of old-growth trees tower above the trail, which ends up behind The Bascom facility, where art classes and local arts and crafts to purchase are aplenty. The renovated barn at the front of Bascom is where pottery is taught and sold. To make the walk longer, and to enjoy a different perspective of the trail, turn around at the end and make your way back to the trail’s entrance. While not necessarily challenging, the trail has some short spots of elevation, some winding areas, and a few stone steps. by Deena Bouknight

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The Gray

Catbird

The Gray Catbird’s distinctive call and elegant plumage make it a natural charmer.

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he Gray Catbird get its common name from its distinctive vocalization that sounds like a cat’s mew. Not somewhat like a cat’s mew, the call is a clear feline “mew.” Prepare to be surprised. The catbird’s formidable Latin name is Dumetella carolinensis which refers to its being a small thornbush dweller in the Carolinas. Yes, it’s a Carolinian. Not our state bird but an avian namesake and backyard delight. This neotropical migrant, protected by the reinstated Migratory Bird Treaty, is widespread and plentiful in the eastern and northern U.S. and Canada. Catbirds that breed in the upper Midwest winter in Central America. Those that nest in the midAtlantic and New England winter in Florida and the Caribbean. Their plumage is as pictured: lead gray with a black cap, black beak, eyes, legs and feet. Rarely seen is a chestnut red patch under the long black tail. Females are indistinguishable from males except in nesting behavior. The nest, a cup near ground level in the woods, holds two or three light blue eggs. Both parents feed the hatchlings. Catbirds eat berries and fruit, making up 50 percent of their diet, as well as insects and seeds. They forage at ground level in leaf litter, shrubs and bushes. Offer them soaked raisins or orange slices and you will make their day.

These birds are first cousins to mockingbirds. Their songs and calls are similar to those of mockingbirds with two exceptions. First, catbirds mew and that is an unmistakable field sign. Second, mockingbirds repeat vocal phrases and catbirds do not repeat. Catbirds have a vocal repertoire of 100 different sounds. Its long and varied song can last 10 minutes. Like mockingbirds, they are profuse imitators of other birds. Ornithologists have theorized that extensive vocal mimicking makes males attractive to females as a sign of “having been around.” Come to think of it, some human females are attracted to human males who can sing Italian, French and German arias. Such is the singular fabric of life! Birds and birders are natural social distancers. Watch the bushes and shrubs and listen for the characteristic “mew” to spot this bird. The mission of the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society is to provide opportunities to enjoy and learn about birds and other wildlife and to promote conservation and restoration of the habitats that support them. HPAS is a 501(c)(3) organization, a Chapter of the National Audubon Society. Visit highlandsaudubonsociety.org for information on membership and all activities. by William McReynolds, Highlands Plateau Audubon Society

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Bust Your Butt Falls Bust Your Butt Falls is the per fect photo oppor tunity. But make note of that name – No Shenanigans!

ust your Butt Falls, also known as Quarry Falls, is a popular summer roadside stop along the Cullasaja River. The waterfall stands about 25 feet in height. It’s a nice place to rest on the large rocks and enjoy the beauty of the falls or wade in the water at the base of the falls. People have been known to slide down the falls. Doing so can be dangerous, particularly during times when the water flow is rapid, and is not recommended, as some have busted

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more than their butt. Directions From Highlands, drive 5.5 miles west on US 64. There is a pull-off on the left that will accommodate several cars. by Ed and Cindy Boos

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At a Glance Waterfall Guide Enjoy this sampling of area water falls, for a deep dive visit thelaurelmagazine.com/recreation.

HIGHLANDS Bridal Veil Falls From NC 106 in Highlands, drive 2.3 miles west on US 64. Waterfall GPS: N35.07180 W-83.22910 Difficulty: You can park your car in a little parking area and walk 50 feet.

Whitewater Falls From US 64 west of Lake Toxaway, take NC 281 for 8.5 miles and turn left at the sign for Whitewater Falls into a parking area. Difficulty: Not strenuous, though the paved path is a bit uneven.

Dry Falls From NC 106 in Highlands, drive 3.15 miles west on US 64 to a parking area on the left. Waterfall GPS: N35.06884 W-83.23869 Difficulty: There are lots of steps you must go down to get behind Dry Falls.

Cashiers Sliding Rock Cashiers Sliding Rock, a million miles from the cares of the 21st century, is easy to get to. From the Cashiers Crossroads, travel south on NC 107 to Whiteside Cove Road. Head down the road for 2.6 miles to where the road crosses the Chattooga River and pull over just across the bridge. Difficulty: A piece of cake.

Bust Your Butt Falls From NC 106 in Highlands, drive 6.35 miles west on US 64 to the pullout on the left. Waterfall GPS: N35.09268 W-83.26573 Difficulty: Don’t stop on the road itself! Glen Falls From the junction of US 64 and NC 106 in Highlands, drive 1.75 miles south on NC 106 and bear left at the sign for Glen Falls. Take Glen Falls Road, not Holt Road. Drive 1.05 miles to the parking area. Waterfall GPS: N35.03128 W-83.23829 Difficulty: There’s some climbing involved here. Upper Middle Creek Falls From the intersection of NC 106 and US 64, follow NC 106 South for 9.3 miles. Exactly 1 mile before you reach the Georgia state line, and about 0.3 miles after NC 106 crosses Middle Creek, a yellow School Bus Stop sign will be on the right. Park on the right side of the road right at the sign. Waterfall GPS: N35.00714 W-83.32916 Difficulty: The four-tenths of a mile hike is not strenuous but it can be confusing.

Scan for more info.

CASHIERS Silver Run Falls From US 64 in Cashiers, head south on NC 107 from 4.05 miles – there’s a pullout area on the left. Waterfall GPS N35.06599 W-83.06558 Difficulty: No difficulty.

Spoonauger Falls From Cashiers, travel on NC 107 8.2 miles. The name changes to SC 107 – travel for 4.9 miles. Turn right onto Burrells Ford Road. Drive approximately 2.0 miles to the Chattooga Trail parking area on the left (look for the Forest Service Bulletin Board) Hike north on the Chattooga Trail, which roughly parallels the Chattooga River for 0.25 mile, then cross Spoonauger Creek. Immediately on the right will be a side trail. Difficulty: There’s nothing tricky. Schoolhouse Falls From US 64, take NC 281 North for 0.85 mile and bear left on Cold Mountain Road. Stay on the road. When it becomes unpaved, travel about 0.1 mile. Take the road on the right and travel for 0.1 mile to a parking area. Take the trail to the right of the information kiosk. At the intersection, proceed straight on Panthertown Valley Trail. Turn left onto Little Green Trail. Schoolhouse Falls is about 0.15 mile ahead. Waterfall GPS N35.16330 W-83.00674 Difficulty: The hike isn’t challenging.

Scan for interactive map of waterfalls in the Highlands and Cashiers area.

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Modernity

Farming

For Yellow Mountain Garden’s Malcolm Banks, farming is a heritage endeavor, under taken with an eye toward future generations.

Malcolm Bank

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eorgia-native Malcolm Banks is a modern-day diversified farmer. He plants and harvests produce, sells starter plants, raises animals for meats, and much more through his local Yellow Mountain Garden. As a 34-year-old African American, Banks is distinct as a new generation farmer. “My granddaddies and greatgranddaddies were farmers since the 1800s, but the latest generation have not farmed but instead mostly moved to cities and taken other types of jobs. But I was around farming when I was younger, and it’s important to me to continue farming and educating younger people about farming.” Besides selling all that is offered through his local market garden business, Yellow Mountain Garden, including hand-made soaps, CSA (Community Shared Agriculture) seasonal produce boxes, houseplants, meats, and much more, Banks is community-minded and education-focused.

provide as many farm events as possible. It’s a lot of stuff, but I really want to teach the next generation that they can eat local produce and even grow their own food. There are not very many farmers these days, and I’m hoping to inspire next generations.” For August, Yellow Mountain Garden offers a late summer/ fall CSA box that includes lettuces, radish, corn, beans, zucchini, peppers, etc. But Banks also encourages individuals to try on their own growing this time of year “anything in the Brassica family (Broccoli, Cauliflower, Cabbage), Brussel Sprouts, greens – anything that can tolerate the cool weather of the early fall. The first frost is between September 17 and into October. So, you must get the plants into the ground, and some of these plants can tolerate cold weather.”

“We grow food, give food away, make items, and partner with groups like ASAP (Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project),” said Banks.

Yellow Mountain Garden is a family affair, with Malcom’s wife, Hannah, handling business aspects, and the couple’s three children, ages two, seven, and 13 years, involved in various capacities.

Children’s play dates are offered at the farm as well.

Visit yellowmountaingarden.com for more information.

“This is more like a community farm,” he added. “We want children to see a farm and see how food grow –

by Deena Bouknight / photo by Mary Gillian

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The Lifeblood of

our Mountains

The Southern Appalachian Brook Trout, the Top Fish in local streams, is facing a rising tide of environmental stressors.

ere in the higher elevations of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, mountain streams originate, forming the headwaters of larger streams and waterways below. Our small seeps, trickles, and creeks collect water from rain events and feed into larger and larger bodies of water including the rivers, lakes, and reservoirs that support drinking water for our communities. Healthy water upstream can have a direct impact on water quality downstream and one of the indicators of a healthy stream is the presence or absence of certain animals that live within them. Southern Appalachian Brook Trout, the only native “trout” species on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, require cool, pristine mountain waters to survive and thrive. As top predators in the stream food chain, brook trout are a crucial keystone species in our waterways. They feed on aquatic insects, including mayfly, caddisfly, and stonefly larvae, which are vital to the functioning stream ecosystem - breaking down organic material and 80 AU G U S T 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

recycling it back into the system. Brookies were pushed down the Appalachians during the last ice age over 10,000 years ago. These ancient fish were almost driven to extinction when our mountains were clear-cut for timber, opening up the forest canopy, warming the waters and increasing runoff and sedimentation into their habitat. In North Carolina since 1900, the brook trout range is believed to have declined by roughly 80 percent. Other factors that contribute to the challenges our aquatic species face include: introductions of non-native trout species (such as the predatory Rainbow and Brown Trout), increased development pressures along riparian areas, decimation of eastern hemlock populations by the invasive hemlock wooly adelgid, water temperature increases resulting from spillover impoundments (ponds), climate change, impediments to movement and migration such as culverts, clearing of riparian vegetative buffers along

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waterways, and the fragmentation of quality habitat. As negative impacts have now compounded over several hundred years, these incredible animals need our help and protection more than ever to prevent loss of the species and ecosystem collapse across the plateau. To learn more about this topic, please join HighlandsCashiers Land Trust and The Village Green for our Healthy Headwater Streams Village Nature Series talk, 5:00 to 6:00 P.M. Tuesday, August 30, at the Village Green Commons at The Village Green, Cashiers. Presenter Patrick Weaver, Education Coordinator at Headwaters Outfitters, will discuss the conservation challenges for local streams and trout waters and explore what we can all do to help promote our local brook trout populations and bolster riparian buffers. Let’s protect the lifeblood of our mountains. by Sarah Pursel, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust photo by Andrew Renfro

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Crucial Research

at HBS

A team of student-researchers is delving into the myriad ways that we’re affecting the Plateau’s ecology.

xciting things are happening at the Highlands Biological Station this summer, and the onset of August means the excitement continues – as they prepare for one of their most impactful annual programs – the Highlands Field Site program through UNC Chapel Hill’s Institute for the Environment. This program began at HBS in 2001 as an immersive, semester-long opportunity for students to explore real-world environmental issues through a combination of course work, field trips, group research projects, and internships. This month, HBS will be welcoming their largest ever cohort of HFS students as 15 individuals, ranging from college sophomores to seniors, are scheduled to arrive and explore the ways humans affect the natural environment and build on the research that past students have conducted. HFS Director Dr. Rada Petric noted that this year’s group has even more diversity than in the past with 73 percent of the students identifying as female. “Our goal is to make sure this program is literally available to everyone – that no matter what your background is or where you’re coming from, that you would want to participate in this program, and that you can gain all the amazing experiences that we provide which will help you in whatever career path that you choose.” You don’t need to look far to see the impact of this program. Three of last year’s HFS students – Chloe Hall, Grace Kinder,

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and Noa Meiri – returned to the Station this summer as Research Assistants to collect additional data and expand on their fall 2021 microplastics study (the lead Principal Investigators are Dr. Jerry Miller and Jason Love) with the hopes of publishing their findings. In addition to this, they are assisting with HBS’s MAPS bird banding in partnership with Blue Ridge Bird Observatory and will soon be contributing to a pilot citizen science project led by Petric, who is working to collect bat data along the Appalachian Trail. The HFS program is made possible through UNC Chapel Hill’s Institute for the Environment, HBS, Western Carolina University, and the Highlands Biological Foundation. Earlier this year, the Foundation awarded $100,000 of grant funding to support this program for the second consecutive year – their largest investment towards education to date. The Foundation’s Executive Director Charlotte Muir noted how passionate the organization is about the program, stating that “HBF is thrilled to support the Institute for the Environment program at HBS. This program is creating the next generation of scientists, and we think Highlands is the perfect place to immerse these students in the natural world.” For more information about the HFS program and to learn how you can contribute to its impact, visit highlandsbiological.org. by Winter Gary, Communications & Events Coordinator, Highlands Biological Foundation

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Butterfly Attracting

Weed

Though a humble Plateau denizen, Joe-Pye weed is treasured by ordinar y people and Monarchs alike.

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pring might be resplendent with native flowering plants, and the summer season bursting with the bounty of fruits and vegetables, but late summer features a large, towering plant that is essential for a certain kind of butterfly: the Monarch.

A common coffee cup and garden sign adage is “May all my weeds be wildflowers.” Joe-Pye weed (Eutrochium Raf.) is one that falls into that category. Supposedly named for a Native American medicine man who used the plant to treat various illnesses, Joe-Pye weed is a native perennial wildflower that attracts butterflies and other pollinators but is most important because it serves as a larval host plant primarily for the Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus), which needs the weed as part of its annual migration cycle. In fact, while the plant’s medicinal values have not been scientifically proven, its status as a butterfly magnet is obvious. The plants’ looming three-to-seven-foot presence becomes heavy-laden with clumps of vanilla-scented purplish blooms that are regularly aflutter with beautiful – and busy – winged insects. Joe-Pye weed grows abundantly on roadsides and in fields throughout the Plateau. And for about a month,

beginning in mid to late summer and extending into early fall, blooms are plentiful. However, the flowering, tall plant has of late become desirable in more natural, English country-style gardens, especially to add height and background to less leggy plants. They are easy to grow from seed or from starter plants, available at many nurseries, and require just consistent soil moisture and an environment of full sun to part shade. Naturally growing as a weed, the layers of dead debris each year keep the soil around the wildflowers from drying out. But if Joe-Pye weed is cultivated in a garden, a layer of mulch does the trick. Joe-Pye weeds require no special winter protection, but in gardens their stalks can be cut back to just above ground level after frost kills the plants or after the flowers have faded. To find Joe-Pye weeds while walking and hiking, just look for colorful activity hovering above and around these lovely plants. by Deena Bouknight photo by Susan Renfro

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Travel Trilogy A languid road trip across the vast wild spaces of the American West brings home the natural and historical treasures that are the bir thright of all Americans.

ast year, national parks and forests strained with increased visitor numbers, and expectations are high again this year – despite gas prices.

Driving east to west in the span of four days this spring was an experience both anticipated excitedly and contemplated keenly. My future husband, taking a seasonal forest ranger position at Montana’s Custer-Gallatin National Park (Earthquake Lake), desired that I accompany him on the journey. Wanderlust piqued, so we planned to stop at as many historic sites and points of interest as possible, staying each evening in a restored 1969 Shasta camper. I purchased a printed – in the USA, even – Atlas and began mapping out the trip the old-fashioned way. St. Louis was the first destination from the Western North Carolina starting point, and part of a day was set aside for experiencing the extraordinary architectural and engineering feat that is the 630-wide and tall stainless steel Gateway Arch; we also visited Grant Farm, in walking distance of the Grant Site, now houses Anheuser-Busch Clydesdales and other animals. But it was the drive from Denver to Billings, Montana, that truly delivered. For anyone not interested in the mostly mundane excursion across the flat prairies of Missouri and Kansas, an option is to fly into Denver and rent a car to travel up Hwy. 287, which 86 AU G U S T 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

skirts the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest that extends from Colorado into Wyoming. Views from the car are of jagged cliffs and peaks that are part of the Rocky Mountains. Stop and hike one of the 360 trails within the 2.9 million-acre forest. About halfway of the 10.5-hour trip to Billings is Casper, Wyoming, with amazing landscapes to explore, such as Casper Mountain, the North Platte River, and Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park. Just past Casper, up Hwy. 25, is the Big Horn National Forest and Crow Tribal Territory. Finally, before entering Billings, the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument does not disappoint. Not only can one stand on the open hills and view 360-degrees the famous battlefield – where Lt. Col. George Custer and about 200 cavalrymen were attacked by as many as 3,000 Lakota, Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors – but the sweeping views are of picturesque prairies (complete with prairie dogs), wild horses, buttes and bluffs, and the Little Bighorn River. Visitors can drive or walk the four miles of historically marked paths for an immersion experience into an American turning point. Fly out of Billings, but not before enjoying the awe-inspiring Beartooth Front Scenic Drive and Absarokee Loop Scenic Drive, where the Rocky Mountain peaks are white-capped much of the year. by Deena Bouknight

OUTDOORS

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ARTS Pages 90-107

photo by Susan Renfro

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Paintings Keep

the Love Alive

For Cover Ar tist Carol Tamplin, the profound bonds between people and their pets can be found at the hear t of her ar t.

arol Tamplin’s paintbrush is the extension of a very talented hand. That hand is hot-wired to her heart, a heart which expresses the ancient love connection of pets and people. Hand and heart are a magical combination that makes Carol the Plateau’s in-demand pet portrait artist. “Paintings keep the love going, especially when a furry family

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member makes its way to the rainbow bridge,” Carol says. “I am honored to paint treasured moments and memories of beloved animals. There’s something very soul-satisfying about what I am called to do.” But Carol hasn’t always been a painter. “I grew up in a small town in Georgia,” she says. “I always dabbled in art, but my

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parents were practical. They sent me to pharmacy school. I followed their pragmatic lead, schooling, marrying, raising a family. But when my kids grew up, I signed up for art classes.” “My first teacher got me started in oils, and I’ve stuck with it,” Carol says. She likes its extended workability thanks to a slow drying time. While Carol specializes in pets, a variety of other images catch her eye. Visit her Instagram site and see fish, hens, tigers, goats, bears, squirrels, foxes, cows, still life, sheep, deer, landscapes, birds, quail, butterflies, flowers, and more.

While considering herself a painting hobbyist, her repertoire is vast and her technique solid. She welcomes commissions of the remarkable creatures who fill your life with joy and make your family complete. Contact Carol at caroltamplin@yahoo.com. by Donna Rhodes

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Shapes and

Lines

Ar tist Jan De Jong will decipher the tricks and techniques that make it possible to paint on rice paper – Monday, August 29 at 5:00 P.M. at The Bascom.

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he August meeting of the Art League of HighlandsCashiers will be held at The Bascom on Monday, August 29. Social time begins at 4:30 P.M., followed by the meeting at 5:00 P.M. This event is free and open to the public.

can be fun at any age. Her presentation, entitled, Creative Rice Paper Batik, will include illustrations done by her and other batik artists using the technique of working with paper and wax. Jan will demonstrate techniques of handling the paper and wax, and she will teach the The guest speaker at the meeting concepts of working from light to will be watercolorist, Jan De The technique forces the artist to dark, simplifying the painting’s Jong. save whites and to understand design and the textures that can Ms. De Jong discovered waternegative space, thus simplifying be achieved from painting with colors as a child, and she has wax. She will show how to tear their idea, and working with shapes been fascinated with the medium the rice paper and will provide a as well as lines. ever since. After retiring from list of supplies needed and where teaching art in 2002, she began to obtain them. Attendees will teaching adults in her Florida also receive written step-by-step home, as well as conducting workshops. Jan started painting on directions on this method. There will be a side table with rice rice paper in 2010. paper and melted wax for those who wish to give this method a try. We think you will find this presentation to be both interestShe especially likes working on rice paper because she loves ing and instructive. the way it absorbs the paints and the textures she can get from the wax resist. The technique forces the artist to save whites by Zach Claxton, and to understand negative space, thus simplifying their idea, The Art League of Highlands-Cashiers and working with shapes as well as lines. Jan is a signature member of the Miami Watercolor Society as well as the Florida Watercolor Society. She believes that learning something new is challenging and

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Amy Phillips

Visions From

the Heart

For Amy Phillips, the light is always there, waiting to be captured.

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aybe it’s Amy Phillips’ graphic design background that infuses tiny smile-droplets into her oils and acrylics.

Look at her Squash and Blossoms. She finds a reverence in spent flowers, and what’s more, she memorializes each female flower in its attachment to its offspring. The result is anything but a row of dead blooms. It’s a celebration of nature, new life, nourishment. Now, that’s a smile. Look at her painting, Man on Nature. A miniature man, perhaps a symbol of humankind, his arms determinedly crossed, sits on the tip of a narrow leaf. From out here, he looks to be in a precarious place, yet he acts like he’s suited up and in charge. This guy is about to take a tumble. The tension this simple statement presents is funny yet foreboding. See these and other images on Amy’s art festival show site: eventeny.com/company/amyfeilphillips. It’s difficult to categorize Amy’s style. The closest we can come is expressive-painterly. Her work is clean, economical, often poignant, colorful, bright, and full of light. She says, “Our world can be dark and heavy, burdened with anxiety. The word ‘light’ is not only literal as defined by value and contrast, but also light as in lightness of spirit and

maybe even a lightness (as in lifting a weight) – moving us toward hope.” Amy is in the second phase of her art career. The first was as production artist, art director, graphic designer and creative director (you pay some dues to get that title), and graphic designer. In her second artistic phase, she’s now a studio art graduate with honors, her credentials capped with an MBA in Marketing. When asked why she didn’t just leap right into fine art after getting her Bachelors, she says, “I had to step back and question, ‘Do I want to be competing with starving artists?’ And making a living at art shows and galleries might have compromised my desire to paint my truth. A lot of fine artists get very commercial and sell for demand instead of what their hearts dictate.” So, she took a job in the related field of graphic design and painted only for the joy of it. It took the pressure off. And, looking at her body of work today, those tiny smiles beaming from it, it is clear her strategy paid off. To view more of her paintings or inquire about commissions, check out her current Laurel ad, visit amyfeilphillips.wixsite. com/artist; visit Uptown Gallery in Franklin, or catch her at The Bascom shows. by Donna Rhodes

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Setting the Stage

for Epiphanies

Terr y Warren’s journey into the world of ar t supplied lessons for success in the larger world.

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arly on, Terry Warren was determined to leap up the ladder of the corporate world.

On the verge of making a big move to Australia, he met a self-made millionaire in San Francisco, who had a huge impact on his life. To thank his mentor, Terry decided to draw his house. Only one problem – he had to enroll in a drawing class to learn how to do it.

He says, “In 2010 I was in an art show exhibition. I craved more art ops. But my corporate travel schedule was eating into my art time. By 2015 I decided to leave corporate America for good. Art and coaching have been my passion ever since. I divide my time 50/50: half for art, half for executive coaching. I also joined plein air painters in Nashville which amplified my skills in unexpected ways.”

Little did he realize that encounter, that class, that drawing (which was well-received) set the stage for a lifetime epiphany. He says, “I found drawing to be one of the first things I had ever done that took my mind off everything else. I could just focus and be away from the business madness.”

A little over three years ago, Terry wanted to ratchet up another level, so he took a Roger Dale Brown workshop for fine artists. He says, “Brown’s approach to teaching and my engineering brain clicked. I begged him to give private sessions. He agreed, and I spent two remarkable years studying with him.”

Terry’s San Francisco benefactor turned out to be the first of several art- and life-mentors, his next being a 95-year-old woman who welcomed him to her art class.

Over the years all the workshops, the mentors, the experiences in corporate and art worlds coalesced into a book, The Art of Choice, Making Changes That Count in Work and Life. At the book’s core: Art, Living, and Work share the umbrella of Perspective.

Happenstance art opportunities managed to appear at just the right time wherever he went. Terry says, “My art education was primarily workshops or private instruction, I still had my corporate job, traveling 60% of the time. Sunday afternoons were set aside for art exploration.” The more he drew, the more he was hooked. He started with pencil, then color pencil, oils and acrylics and then back to oils.

To inquire about his book, commissions, and art, attend the Highlands-Cashiers Art League shows to meet him personally or contact him at terrysart2@gmail.com. by Donna Rhodes

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A Choice to

Paint Happy

There’s an undeniable power in the paintings of Nancy Delahaye – a healing balm borne of sorrow and loss.

ow does a biomedical research Ph.D. in Louisiana transition to abstract artist in Highlands? Easy. But it helps to have active left and right brains, a fondness for storytelling and doodling, and a longing for living in the mountains near where her son would be going to college.

home with her infant son.

Meet Nancy Delahaye, an enthusiastic biochemist and an equally passionate painter. Life’s influences directed her into medical research.

Nancy loves painting large abstract landscapes. Highlands’ scenery inspires her work. Everywhere she looks she sees a scene that begs her to capture it on canvas.

“While I worked full time in biomedical research, I learned to paint as a hobby,” she says. “My big thing as a kid was writing short stories and illustrating them. That was something I just loved.” This spurred her love of creative art. Twenty years ago, she retired from research so she could stay 100 Aug us t 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

She says, “While home I explored different styles of painting and took art classes. Even though my early painting style was realistic still life, I began to acknowledge abstract art was my true passion.”

“I paint in very vibrant colors,” she says. “Some of my collectors say they meditate, getting lost in my work and see something new repeatedly.” That’s part of the magic of abstraction. New shapes materialize, tempered by the time of day, the direction of light, and the state of mind of the viewer. Feedback from her fans suggests her

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Nancy Delahaye

pieces are ever changing. Maybe those layers of meaning and emotion manifest in Nancy’s psyche and are revealed on an emotional level in her art. She’s endured losses of those close to her. That pain has thrown a lot of curve balls at her. “When I think of my pain, I realize I have a choice to be happy and express myself through art,” she says. “Hopefully the restorative gifts I’ve been given can be passed on to others who view my work. I believe art, like medicine, can heal. I feel like I am part of a chain that takes away peoples’ pain, one link at a time.” See more of Nancy’s work on social media. Instagram: nancydelahayeart, and Facebook: nancyarbourdelahaye. She enjoys commission work and looks forward to connecting with new friends and old. by Donna Rhodes

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Like No

Other Place

A new exhibition in par tnership with The Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust – Like No Other Place: Photographs of the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust – explores the magic that’s embedded in the Plateau’s landscape. You’re invited to an opening reception on Thursday, August 11, from 5:00 to 6:30 P.M. at The Bascom.

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he Bascom is pleased to continue its ongoing programmatic partnership with the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, reimagining the relationship through an exhibition of works in the photographic medium. The images in Like No Other Place present an artistic interpretation by regional photographers of the beauty, bio-diversity, and expanse of the properties that the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust stewards, and that help define the plateau as a place like no other. For many years The Bascom has partnered with one of the Plateau’s most valued organizations, the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, merging art and conservation education through programs primarily directed towards school-aged children. Strengthening the missions of both organizations, these education programs allow free access to arts integrated science curriculums where students achieve dual learning objectives while engaging in the creative process. The mountains we call home are among some of the oldest in the world. Over time, geologic processes have resulted in a complex landscape that is home to a great diversity of habitats for plants and animals. Home to more flowering plant species than anywhere else in the temperate zone, 250 are found nowhere else but here. Drawn to the abundance of fresh water, timber, and other natural resources found in the Southern Appalachians, our area

has been inhabited by humans for eons. Early Highlanders recognized that our forests and scenic views were at risk and banded together in 1909 to conserve an iconic mountain called Satulah, adding to that Sunset and Sunrise Rocks at Ravenel Park in 1914. This effort led to the creation of the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust which has now conserved over 3,700 acres in 127 places. It is the deep love of and need for our wild and natural places that drives these conservation triumphs. The Bascom is delighted to showcase the important work of the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust though the images discovered in Like No Other Place, on display through December 23. Thanks to HC Land Trust’s Julie Schott for contributing to this article. by Bianca Mitchell The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts

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Comedy, Drama, and Mystery

at PAC

Highlands Per forming Ar ts Center wraps up its busy summer season with The Bitchy Waiter, a harrowing one-woman legal drama, and a tale of murder and misdirection. Tickets are available for all events online at HighlandsPerformingArts.com.

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Darron Cardosa

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aturday, August 13, brings Comedy to the PAC with Tales of a Weary Waiter starring Darron Cardosa.

Darron Cardosa, also known as The Bitchy Waiter, is a food service professional with over 30 years of restaurant experience. He’s waited tables in diners, pubs, chain restaurants, neighborhood bistros, clubs, and even a short stint in a celebrity-owned restaurant, before he was fired for blogging about his experience. Over the last 15 years, he has written more than 1,500 articles and blog posts, each and every one about the food service industry. He has written for Food & Wine, Plate, The Washington Post, and others. Darron has been seen on NBC’s TODAY Show and CBS Sunday Morning discussing the service industry. His book, The Bitchy Waiter, was published in 2016, and his years as a professional actor eventually led to the creation of his one-man show which tours around the country. The National Theatre of London returns at 1:00 P.M. Saturday, August 27, with the screening of Prima Facie. Tessa is a young, brilliant barrister. She’s worked her way up from working class origins to be at the top of her game; defending; cross examining and winning. An unexpected event forces her to confront the lines where the patriarchal power of the law, burden of proof, and morals diverge.

Prima Facie takes us to the heart of where emotion and experience collide with the rules of the game. Starring Jodie Comer (Killing Eve) making her critically-acclaimed West End debut in the UK premiere of Suzie Miller’s award-winning, one-woman play. ‘Includes sensitive subject matter including reference to sex, violence and rape’ There is more information about this on the Prima Facie website with links to further information and support: primafacieplay.com/trigger-warning/ Also in August is The Highlands Cashiers Players’ production of Night Watch by Lucille Fletcher, directed by Michael Lanzilotta, set for August 25-28 and September 1-4. Coming in September: The Grand Opening of the new Highlands Performing Arts Center on Saturday, September 17, with the internationally-known Bravo Amici. by Mary Adair Trumbly, Highlands Performing Arts Center

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When the Painting

Looks Back

Patty Calderone’s striking 2009 Laurel cover still maintains its hypnotic allure. f you’re a local artist or an art appreciator, chances are very good you know Patty Calderone.

She’s a painter, an art instructor, a writer, an art show promoter, a leader in the regional artworld, and a terrific friend to many – artist or non-artist. A devoted collaborator with The Laurel, she’s been featured inside the magazine and a few times on the cover. This August we are recognizing her contribution to the Arts and magazine during the last two decades. We’re celebrating one of our readership’s favorite Calderone covers, an owl on a mystical mission, sailing silently through the Plateau’s still night air. Continuing our monthly art critiques, take a moment to peruse the painting, noting its artistic principles and elements. Study how the negative space between the moonlit edge of the owl’s wings and moonlight edge peeking out behind the line of mountains create almost a mirror image of each other. How does that contribute to the harmony of the painting’s elements (sky, mountain and owl)? Why do you think Patty chose that particular color palette? Did the owl have a strong impact on you. If so, why? In one or two sentences tell a very short story about 106 Aug us t 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

the owl’s presence. As for this viewer and writer, I still catch my breath when I see this cover image. I think it’s that dead-on look, an intelligence, other than human, piercing through the dark, staring right back at me. I’m reminded of an early Dutch painter, Jan van Eyck and his 1433 painting, Portrait of a Man in a Red Turban, with its confrontational gaze. 600 years ago, it was both disturbing and stunning. No one painted like that until van Eyck opened that door. It’s still unsettling, yet compelling today. Besides the owl’s powerful physical and anthropomorphic presence, the painting’s focal point is accentuated by the linework of the wings and the line of mountains. Those lines pull our focus into the painting’s center and the owl’s intense look. The monochromatic palette dramatizes the dark of night, while linear light draws us in. The owl’s eyes, combined with the bird’s ability to navigate the night in flight tap into the mystical. This owl knows something I need to know. I am mesmerized by his stare. I don’t want to be his prey – but maybe I do, if doing so lifts me to another plane. We’ve studied the owl briefly with principles and elements of design and touched on how that leads us to the transcendent. Now let’s experience the artist’s concept. Your turn, Ms. Calderone:

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Messenger of Hope

“In 2008 I had a dream, a vision, in which a boy’s father brings his son across the border from North Carolina. They climb up Rabun Bald Mountain. There, they eat their first meal since fasting after a long trip lasting four days. Where they camp, the summit view is mesmerizing. The moon is bright, and the sky, full of stars. The boy’s father lies down, says goodnight, and falls fast asleep. The boy takes in the peaceful beauty, watching the shooting stars in the sky. A startling swoosh makes him sit straight up. A large white Owl appears before him, gazing into his eyes. The two remain transfixed, caught up in a Vision Quest (an attempt to achieve a vision of a guardian spirit, usually undertaken by boys at puberty). The Owl slowly retreats. A vision of a ghost bear’s face emerges above the head of the Owl. A star splits in two. On each side of the bear, two pieces of the star reveal the bear’s silhouette in the sky as each piece draws the line slowly to the edge of the earth.” It was this vision that inspired Vision of Things to Come, which appeared on a Laurel cover in 2009. To learn more about this painting, its original incarnation, Patty Calderone’s studio, classes, upcoming events, and much more, visit calderonegallery.com, or inquire at calderonegallery@gmail.com. by Donna Rhodes

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DINING Pages 112-133

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Grand Olde Station

Grand Olde Station, 502 Blue Ridge Road, continues a glorious Toxaway tradition. Reser vations are a must – visit grandoldestation.com or call (828) 922-4242.

he Toxaway Community has always been close.

From its earliest days when swells like Thomas Edison and Henry Ford would plan their getaways so they could “rough it” together (for clarity, their version of roughing it wasn’t the same as Mark Twain’s – let’s call it by its 21st century name, glamping). My grandfather, who was the teacher at Toxaway School after he came home from World War I, said that people would gather at Po and Missa Galloway’s for a community meal and music (with some dancing, but not for the Baptists). And of course, the homes that have sprung up all along the lake since the 1960s – from modest getaways to sprawling estates that are barely glimpsed from the road – they constitute a thriving, egalitarian community, where eventually everyone knows your name.

Inside it’s jammed with mountain ephemera, including a slinky stuffed fox and a ghostly mountain lion (perhaps in tribute to the “painter” that my grandfather said haunted the deep woods surrounding Toxaway in 1920-21). But the clear callback to olde Toxaway’s social calendar was the crowd that built with our arrival at 6:00 P.M. on a Sunday evening. People poured in, and they were in a happy, celebratory mood. Our server Gregory reflected the spirit of the dining room – he moved with confidence and a good-natured humor. Between the kitchen and bar and dining room, he was in perpetual motion, yet he never seemed stressed, let alone overwhelmed. This comfy mountain décor and overwhelmingly positive atmosphere still doesn’t explain the filled-to-capacity dining room, though.

This helps to explain why Grand Olde Station, just 15 yards from the lake, is such good fit for this lively community.

Let’s turn our attention to the menu and the confident kitchen that delivers on its promises.

Housed in the old Toxaway Train Depot, with a venerable Toxaway Fire Department American LaFrance Engine and a couple of vintage motorboats out front, this place is steeped in mountain heritage.

We started with tapas-style Fried Green Tomatoes and Smoked Trout Dip served with pita triangles. Here’s an unimpeachable reference to Southern classics that were on the menu of the venerable Toxaway Inn.

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Our main courses weren’t culled from an old mountain cookbook – Barbecued Chicken Pizza, Almond Salmon, and the thick and juicy Station Burger – but they’re in the running for modern classics. They were all created with care, and my Station Burger was reminiscent of the backyard burgers that used to punctuate my summers. Somehow, I’ve lost the time and inclination to drag the old grill out, so Grand Olde Station’s version filled something precious in my emotional equilibrium. Well, I’ve squandered a healthy chunk of my word count, so let me jump directly to dessert – the rare and wonderful Cookie Skillet. Whatever else you’ve ordered and whatever drinks you’ve consumed over the course of your meal, you owe it to yourself to make sure this ends up in front of you.

Will a Cookie Skillet change the course of your life? Of course not. But it will make you a better person – 37 percent better. With its dining room filled with friends and neighbors, and its wise kitchen and its gracious serving staff, it’s clear that Grand Olde Station is a beautiful manifestation of what’s kept Toxaway such a tight-knit community. Though Po and Missa Galloway are long gone, you’ll get the impression that they’re still around, and they’re smiling. Reservations are a must – call (828) 966-4242. by Luke Osteen

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Innovative

Flair

Years of discoveries, and a series of kitchen adventures and innovations have brought Matt Weinstein to Skyline Lodge’s Oak Steakhouse.

Matt Weinstein

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n the sort of twist that you’d find in a Hollywood biopic, 16-year-old Matt Weinstein was washing dishes at his local bar and grill on the day the fry cook walked off the job.

That, as it turned out, was Weinstein’s big opportunity. From the dish station, he moved to the fryer. He learned on the job, eventually moving through all the kitchen stations, working there through his remaining high school years. “I loved the comradery in the kitchen, creating new and different dishes that people loved to eat,” he said. He took a year off after high school “to figure out what I wanted to do,” and started thinking about cooking as a career. In 2007, at the chef’s urging, he enrolled at the Culinary Institute of America. By 2012, after an internship at Asheville’s Biltmore Estate and a stint at Washington, DC’s 701 Restaurant, and two years working the hot and cold stations at Volt Restaurant in Maryland, he landed the Sous Chef position at Family Meal. Founded by celebrity chef and Top Chef finalist Bryan Voltaggio, the restaurant featured upscale diner food. Weinstein moved to Atlanta and accepted the sous chef position at Woodfire Grill – eventually taking over the kitchen and working there for two years before it closed in 2015.

He found a new home as Executive Chef at One Midtown Kitchen, where he was recognized by The Atlanta Journal food critic for what she described as ““creativity happening in the kitchen right now as Weinstein and his team give a modern spin to recognizable dishes and aren’t afraid to call on global influences.” Last year, Weinstein found his next course at Indigo Road Hospitality Group’s Oak Steakhouse in Atlanta. And he couldn’t have been more thrilled when he was invited to lead the kitchen at the location at Skyline Lodge. Weinstein and his wife, Markie, had long yearned for an opportunity to leave city life behind and settle in the mountains. Weinstein brings an innovative flair to the Oak menu, emphasizing imagination and a marriage of mountain ingredients to classic steakhouse fare. Dishes like Venison Wellington with a carrot puree and hunter sauce, and NC Trout topped with a crab cake and a sorrel beurre blanc are a burst of energy and bright flavors. As Weinstein says, “I like to experiment, while letting the season and surrounding area inspire me. But it’s a team effort, I make sure it’s a collaborative effort and we have fun in the process.” by Marlene Osteen, photo by Molly Harris

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Bishop Asbury

Pound Cake

For Patricia Smith, Bishop Asbur y Pound Cake is a labor of love, created for people she loves.

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very cook needs a good pound cake, and this one from Patricia Smith is just that. A long time Family Nurse Practitioner, Smith works at Community Care Clinic of Highlands treating low-income and non-insured patients. So, it’s fitting this one was named for Bishop Francis Asbury, one of two Bishops of the Methodist Episcopal Church in British colonial America. Though not fancy, it’s as welcome at a school bake sale as it is at a wedding – as indeed it was at her oldest son’s nuptials.

Bishop Asbury Pound Cake from Patricia Smith Ingredients 4 sticks real butter plus more to grease the pan 4 cups sugar 10 eggs 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 4 cups cake flour; if you use plain flour, use 8 tablespoons less Directions

The cake, a favorite of Smith’s father in his younger days, is now favored by her partner, and our venerable Editor-in-Chief, that food-loving guy, Luke Osteen.

1. Heat the oven to 325 degrees. Generously butter and flour one 10-inch tube pan and set aside.

Smith said that she enjoys cooking and that, “Yes, I’m a good cook although I make a big mess in the kitchen. I’m like my mother who dirtied up every pan in the kitchen.”

2. Using an electric mixer at medium speed, cream together the butter and sugar. Add the eggs 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the lemon juice and vanilla.

Having made this cake for 45 years, Smith advises that “the most important thing to remember is to take the butter and eggs out of the cooler the night before to let them come to room temperature.”

3. Gently stir in the flour, adding it very gradually.

Some people suggest serving it with fresh fruit, real whipped cream or chocolate sauce, although she prefers the cake plain and says that “it’s wonderful when served warm.”

4. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours. Cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then place the cake out onto a rack to cool completely. Turn it onto a plate and flip again – the crusty side of the cake is the top! by Marlene Osteen / photo by Mary Gillian

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Packed with

Charm and Whimsy

Despite its name, Crossroads Custard & Coldbrew, located at 45 Slabtown Road in Cashiers, offers far more than sweet frozen goodness and coffee. There’s magic here, and the secret of Time Travel.

re there taste sensations stored away in your brain pan that will not be diminished by the steady accretion of decades and the indifference you’ve paid to your mind and body? The sort of emotional-sensory memory that can arrive, unbidden, as you’re drifting off to sleep, that’s so acute that it can make you gasp and issue a half-smile that’s as wistful as anything captured by da Vinci? For me, there are a few dishes that can do that – my Mom’s Strawberry Pie, Basque Marmitako (served in a never-emptying bowl in my son’s adopted town of Pamplona), Mrs. Wilma Gordon’s still-warm-from-the-oven cornbread in a long-ago supper at Highlands United Methodist Church, and, somehow, a Banana Milkshake. By way of explanation for the latter’s inclusion, let me supply a bit of context: In the wake of my truly astonishing (even to me) grasp of the

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arcane mysteries of long division and the subsequent attaining of 100 on a big, big test, my grandmother, the estimable Mildred Hannum, responded by taking me (and only me, my sisters weren’t invited) to Evan’s Ice Cream Parlor in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and treated me to a Milk Shake. Mrs. Evans, the owner and chief scooper, turned this into a transcendent event when she told me that she could whip up a shake using any of the parlor’s 16 flavors – Moses parted the Red Sea, Lincoln freed the slaves, and a throng of angels acclaimed “Hallelujah!” – it seemed impossible! This offer was made in Iowa in the midst of a gray, icelocked February, so I naturally chose Banana. Banana seemed tropical and sweet. And sure enough, that simple Banana Milk Shake was a treasure, a grace note from the tropics and I could imagine that Jane would have served it at Tarzan’s Birthday Party. Blend it in with the pride I felt at mastering the upper reaches

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of mathematics and the sweet words of my grandmother, and you have an experience to be archived and opened any time the world seems unfair or disappointing or indifferent.

Nope – way, way better. The egg content of the custard gave the creation a richness of flavor and velvety consistency that was far superior to a simple ice cream-based shake.

Which brings us to Crossroads Custard & Coldbrew, found at 45 Slab Town Road in Cashiers.

Tricia ordered a Squatch, a thick custard frappe sweetened with agave and topped with strawberry, banana, almond butter, and granola – and into which was blended orange, mango, pineapple and guava!

It’s a cozy bistro that is packed with charm and whimsy and a generous dollop of playfulness, a spirit that extends to its vast, nearly-overwhelming menu. Twenty-four flavors of sweet, sweet custard – sorry Mrs. Evans!) Think I’m joking about that playfulness? Consider their Moon Pie Sundae – a deputy’s dream built upon a classic Lookout Mountain Moon Pie, warmed up and topped with vanilla custard, hot fudge sauce, strawberry sauce, whipped cream, and a crucial cherry on top. How’s that for a memory maker? Still, through all the choices, there was no way I could resist the prospect of a frosty Banana Shake, crafted with care and delivered with a smile. And the decades dropped away, and I was young and blissful and once more certain that the world held promise and such potential.

She dove in despite the risk of brain freeze and made it all go away. And here’s the thing – as we were enjoying our creations and reveling in memories and sensations that reverberated through the years, Crossroads Custard was busy, really busy, with families with kids and families with grandkids and young couples and work buddies. And everyone was happy – some looking to decant memories of golden moments, others intent on memorializing this particular afternoon, when everything was just so, and the custard and the milk shakes and the smiles were as good as life could get. by Luke Osteen

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An Ode to

Summer Suppers

Summer time Sunday Supper with Chefs Cole Ellis and Rob McDaniel, set for The Farm at Old Edwards on Sunday, August 28, is a celebration of this most gracious of Southern traditions.

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specially in summertime, I feel the compulsion to take notice of that revered Southern tradition, the Sunday night supper.

Such a meal is always built around the abundant produce that the season and locale present. Happily, the folks at Old Edwards agree and they have hit upon the perfect recipe for a great Sunday meal. And it is a mighty righteous ode to summer. Certain to get our tummies rumbling is the Summertime Sunday Supper with Chefs Cole Ellis and Rob McDaniel at The Farm at Old Edwards on Sunday, August 28. Owner and Executive Chef of Delta Meat Market in Cleveland, Mississippi, Chef Ellis spent 13 years in Charleston and Nashville working some of the cities’ hottest stoves before moving home. Beginning in 2013 “with two meat counters and a little bit of ambition,” the operation was originally intended to be a grocery store with a kitchen in the back. It wasn’t long before they realized they needed to open six days a week instead of the intended three. Eventually they expanded to catering, and in 2019, Ellis moved the market across the street to the new Cotton House hotel – a property he developed with a team of investors. A 2017 semifinalist for the James Beard Award “Best Chef

South,” Ellis has been featured in Bon Appetit, Southern Living, Delta Magazine, and Garden & Gun in 2019, he was listed as number three in Southern Living’s “Best Chefs of the South.” At his Birmingham restaurant, Helen, Chef Rob McDaniel conjures the foods his grandmother prepared while he was growing up in Haleyville, Alabama. Together with his wife Emily, McDaniel has built a restaurant that advocates for local farmers and preserving regional resources – precepts informed during his studies at the New England Culinary Institute. In 2009 after years working for some of the South’s most well-known chefs, he began a 10-year stint at SpringHouse in Alexander City, Alabama. Grandma Helen’s skill with the grill lives on in McDaniel’s menu – in dishes like a dry aged Kansas City Strip with beef and herb-infused duck fat, and marvelously marbled short ribs. McDaniel is a five-time James Beard Foundation Best Chef: South semifinalist (2013-2017) and was named to Esquire Magazine’s “Best New Restaurants in America List 2021.” Cost of the evening is $185 per person, plus tax and gratuity. For more information, visit OldEdwardsHospitality.com. by Marlene Osteen

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For the Love

of Wine

Seduce your palate and charm your full suite of senses with a set of wine tastings in Cashiers and Highlands.

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DI NI NG ith the summer holiday entertaining season in full swing, hosts, wine lovers and the wine curious are all eager to stock up. The only hurdle is figuring out what to buy. Far too often, selecting wine has felt more like taking your tongue and brain on a palate-numbing and mindbaffling tour than making an informed decision.

beloved region of Italy begs for a closer look and Stephanie and Annelize will supply just that through a sampling of wines that will take you through Tuscany’s major subregions.

Until now, that is. To help you find the perfect wines for yourself and your summer guests – or at least to narrow the field dramatically – Highlands Wine Shoppe and Buck’s Café in Cashiers is offering a series of wine tastings.

On Wednesday, August 17, at Buck’s and Thursday, August 18, at Highlands Wine Shoppe, it’ll be Sipping under the Radar; Delightful Grapes to Geek out Over. Stephanie and Annelize have pinpointed a few of their favorite geek-wines worth seeking out.

The Wine Series is held on Wednesdays at Buck’s from 5:30 to 7:30 P.M. and on Thursdays at Highlands Wine Shoppe from 4:30 to 6:30 and costs $25 per person. Accompanying the wines is a selection of charcuterie. Tastings at the wine shop are led by owner Stephanie Miskew, a Certified Sommelier and Host of the Wine Atelier Podcast and Managing Partner Annelize Giliomee – longtime Highlands Sommelier and well-known, well-respected wine aficionado. At Buck’s, Stephanie leads the tastings with help of husband and co-owner Steve. The series is informal, and reservations are not required. Wednesday, August 3, at Buck’s and Thursday, August 4, at Highlands Wine Shoppe, it’s Under the Tuscan Sun. This

Wednesday, August 10, at Buck’s and Thursday, August 11, at Highlands Wine Shoppe, you’re invited to Perfect Seafood Wines. Pairing wine with seafood doesn’t have to be a difficult task.

Wednesday, August 24, at Buck’s and Thursday, August 25, at Highlands Wine Shoppe brings us The Terroir of Pinot Noir: No other grape is as hauntingly site-specific and complex as Pinot Noir, nor as dramatically affected by its terroir – that combination of geography, geology and vineyard quality. The tasting will reveal the startling flavor distinctions in Pinot Noir grown in different parts of the world. Highlands Wine shoppe is located at 229 Oak Street in Highlands. Buck’s Café is located at 6 Hwy. 107 N. in Cashiers. More information can be found on Facebook or Instagram at #highlandswineshoppe, or call (828) 526-4080. by Marlene Osteen / photo by Susan Renfro

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The Olive Oil of

the South

Highlands Smokehouse is ready to take its legendar y fare on the road. Well, not exactly on the road, but cer tainly to your nex t event. To learn more, visit highlandssmokehouse.com.

amed Southern cookbook author and even more famous dandy Jimmy Villas (he was an editor at Town & Country Magazine) called it the “the king of the Southern table.” We’re talking about pig of course – and more specifically genuinely pit cooked pig – Barbecue.

All of which explains why the very savvy and talented restaurateur and barbecue cognoscenti and the owner of Highlands Smokehouse, Bryan Lewis, has expanded the offerings to include catering. In the few years since assuming ownership of the Smokehouse, the restaurant has earned a reputation for its distinctive pit cooked meats and stupendous sides. Pitmaster Big Carl (Avery) has made an art of the science of the smoky, sauce-doused meat that is second to none as a mouth-watering favorite of Southern eaters. Racks of ribs are just this side of heaven, and the succulent brisket alone will guarantee the success of any gathering. Taste the chopped pork or chopped chicken and you’re certain to start whistling Dixie. The sides are so good, I’d go just for them! The creamy, velvety Mac ‘n Cheese is soul-satisfying, the Smokehouse Beans have a 124 Aug us t 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

wonderful smoky flavor, the collards are just the right amount of tangy and tart, the coleslaw is correctly crispy, the creamed corn is sweetly comforting and the brussels sprouts tender and earthy. For those seeking something beyond barbecue, there’s a terrific taco bar option that guarantees to put you in mind of the best that Mexico has to offer. Also on the catering menu: quintessential Southern sweets, banana pudding and house-made seasonal pies. As you’re planning your barbecue feast, you should know that the Smokehouse can do it all – from a 10-person lunch delivered to your house to a 300-person party with a full staff, bar set up, tables, linens, tableware and all rentals. If the tantalizing aromas of smoked meats roasting over hot coals is your thing, then they’re happy to bring their mobile rig. In other news at Highlands Smokehouse, Lewis tells me that they are expanding the restaurant to include a covered deck with a TV, and heaters so that they will be able to keep it open year-round – it’s forecast to be open in time for the fall season. Invite your friends over, tell them the party is being catered and order up a knockout spread from Highlands Smokehouse –highlandssmokehouse.com. by Marlene Osteen

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Lake Toxaway’s

Greystone Inn

Just in time for the glories of this glorious season, Greystone Inn unveils its Dining Terrace and upgrades its indoor dining experience. For reser vations or to learn more, visit greystoneinn.com.

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he story of the Lake Toxaway’s Greystone Inn begins in 1915 – the year construction was completed on what was once the vacation home of Lucy Camp Armstrong and her shipping magnate husband. Those were the heydays of the lake when titans of industry – Vanderbilts, Firestones, Fords, and Rockefellers summered there. But in the half century that followed, floods, a dam break and economic setbacks converged, and the property fell in disrepair. In 1984, Atlantan Tim Lovelace and his wife Boo Boo bought and renovated the grand old mansion, dubbed it the Greystone Inn, and opened for business on July 15, 1985. In 2017, ownership passed to Shannon and Geoffrey Ellis, owners of Aiken, South Carolina’s acclaimed The Willcox. The couple, clearly born hoteliers, transformed the Inn at substantial expense. The result is a reinvigorated property that keeps a sense of tradition and place, and preserves the original integrity of the architecture, without losing any of its charm. The dark interiors were lightened up and new life injected into the historic mansion. Guest rooms were brightened, and a new bar and dining room added. Recently a new Dining Terrace opened, and the inside dining space was rejuvenated. Hardwood now covers the floors, bold accents and decorative touches enhance the ambiance, new artwork adorns the walls and the old tables and chairs replaced.

Whether dining inside the dining room or outside on the terrace, unobstructed views of the lake and mountains, give guests the feeling of being on an Alpine retreat. As Shannon Ellis recently told me; “We’re very pleased with how the dining terrace turned out. It gives us more space; even better views of the lake and guests are loving it!” The Ellis’ culminating move was to hire longtime South Carolina Chef Thomas Prado, and Certified Sommelier Mathew Arnall. The influence of the surrounding mountains, and lakes and abundance of regional foodstuffs is evident in Prado’s seasonal menu. Flavorful dishes like “NC Sunburst Trout with Sea Island red peas, red chimichurri and crispy spring onion” and “Seared Scallops with corn puree, Benton’s bacon, succotash and Marcona almond gremolata,” express the chef’s affection and flair for Southern cooking. Arnall, a long-time veteran of the hospitality industry, met the Ellis’ while working in Los Angeles as the wine director at Baltaire Steakhouse. In his role as General Manager – Food and Beverage, he has been busily updating the seasonal cocktail menu while expanding and curating the wine list. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner, to the public and hotel guests, the restaurant at the Greystone has pledged to “reducing our environmental impact and increasing our use of sustainable resources.”

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Butler’s Intimate

Dining Experience

Skyline Lodge’s Butler’s is a comfy lunchtime destination – Monday through Friday. For information, call (828) 482-4720 or visit skyline-lodge.com.

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kyline Lodge Executive Chef Matt Weinstein and his team are wielding their culinary magic once more at Skyline’s newest outpost, Butler’s.

Located underneath Oak Steakhouse, the long-awaited restaurant offers an intimate dining experience ideal for either a quick mid-day respite or a lingering cocktail lunch. Pulling influences from the Oak steakhouse menu, the talented culinary crew have put together a menu that marries steakhouse classics with local ingredients and seasonal style. If you’re at Butler’s, chances are you’re a carnivore, and the menu of char-grilled prime Certified Angus Beef, is so stocked with crowd pleasers that you might find it difficult to choose. Among the decadent beef choices, the Steak Frites, a carved tenderloin with truffled fries is a hedonist’s delight. The filet mignon has exactly the correct marbled texture and buttery flavor, and the prime ribeye is cooked to succulent perfection. Then again you might feel obliged to order the Oak smash burger – a mighty and meaty concoction of beef, charred onion aioli, and American cheese on a brioche bun. There’s much to love for non-meat eaters. Bivalve aficionados can rejoice in the perfect rendition of oysters Rockefeller, and crustacean fans the perfectly presented shrimp cocktail. For the salad crowd, there’s a savory spinach Caesar, or an

old-fashioned wedge made modern with salami lardon, confit tomato, blue cheese, and pickled red onion topped with Green Goddess. And there’s no denying the appeal of summer’s best; an heirloom tomato salad with Burrata, fig jam and Balsamic Vinaigrette. Need a protein on either, then choose between NC trout, chicken, shrimp or a bistro steak. I can think of no possible reason to abstain from dessert; the only difficulty being deciding between the Sorghum caramel cake with caramelized apples and sorghum ice cream, the s’mores semi freddo with graham cracker crumble and chocolate or a palate cleansing orange sherbet with milk crumble. What pulls it all together is the combination of the welcoming staff, the glamorous décor with handsome leather pub seating, the cozy bar, the thoughtful libations and the curated list of cocktails and wine. Boasting an outdoor patio with a panoramic view of the ridgeline of the Great Smoky Mountains, it’s the geography as well that makes this place special. Butler’s does not accept reservations but encourages walk-ins. Drop in for a memorable daytime meal Monday – Friday from noon to 2:30 PM. Call (828) 482-4720 or visit skyline-lodge.com for reservations or to learn more. by Marlene Osteen photo by Tim Lenz

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Rocking the Rosé

Rosé is made for these languid days of summer.

everal years ago, when I was selling wine for and with J.T. Fields at his store in Highlands, he introduced me along with all our summer customers to the concept of “quaffers” – uncomplicated, thirst-quenching wines best enjoyed in the summertime. In France they’re known as vins de soif, which essentially means unpretentious wines judged not for their complexity but by the joy and refreshment they provide - wines that seek not our attention, only our enjoyment. Accepting the jargon is to embrace the idea that at certain times the simpler bottle is preferable. There’s still two months to go in our favorite season. And I can think of no better way to get through the long humid days that remain than with the help of everyone’s favorite summer helper, a bottle of Rosé – guaranteed to leave us happily humming. Still, here’s the place where I interject a word of caution. Rose’s popularity has given rise to an unprecedented demand, and just like other wine categories, the offerings fall into subsets of quality, style and accessibility. A good place to start your exploration of Rosé is at its ancestral home in the sunny Mediterranean in the south of France. The warmth of these places – Provence, Corbieres, Lirac, Tavel, Nimes, Ventoux – tends to guarantee a generous fruit profile.

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Perhaps the most famous is the best-selling Miraval Cotes de Provence Rosé, produced on the 150 acres of vineyards at the Chateau Miraval, the South of France estate purchased for $60 million in 2008 by Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. The wine, racy edged with white cherry and rose petal notes, is backed by a lingering wet stone accent. A personal favorite is the Domaine de Fontsainte Gris de Gris. Uniquely made from Grenache Gris, it has a delicate and lively personality to go with lots of cherry blossom like fruit. Not to be overlooked are American Rosés, which have been steadily gaining the respect and admiration of wine drinkers – call it a nod to the skill of some of the country’s best winemakers. A stand out among them is the Alma de Cattleya Pinot Noir Sonoma County Rosé charming and vibrant with pretty strawberry and watermelon accents. Visit your local wine shop – in Highlands at Highlands Wine Shoppe, Bryson’s and Mountain Fresh Grocery and in Cashiers at The Wine & Provisions Shop at the Hotel Cashiers, and the Wine Cellar of Cashiers. And ask for the wines mentioned here or suggestions for similar bottlings. And you can always email me at marlene.osteen@gmail.com. by Marlene Osteen

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CASHIERS AREA RESTAURANTS Cashiers Farmers Market The Orchard Town & Country General Store Deli Zookeeper

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127 127 131 126

Meals

Crossroads Highway 107 South 14 Raggedy Lane 45 Slabtown Road

(828) 743-4334 (828) 743-7614 (828) 547-1300 (828) 743-7711

SAPPHIRE/TOXAWAY AREA RESTAURANTS The Fix Bar & Lounge 3093 Hwy 64 East, Sapphire Grand Olde Station 502 Blue Ridge Road. Lake Toxaway Greystone Inn 220 Greystone Lane, Lake Toxaway Panthertown Cafe 16614 Rosman Hwy, Lake Toxaway

(828) 743-7477 (828) 966-4242 (828) 966-4700 (828) 862-3663

B Breakfast

Lunch

D Dinner

HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS 4th Street Market - (828) 526-4191 Asia House - (828) 787-1680 Bella’s Junction Cafe - (828) 526-0803 Black Bear Restaurant - (828) 482-7020 The Blue Bike Cafe - (828) 526-9922 Bridge at Mill Creek (828) 526-5500 Bryson’s Deli - (828) 526-3775 The Cake Bar - (828) 421-2042 Dusty’s - (828) 526-2762 El Azteca - (828) 526-2244 Highlander Mountain House - (828) 526-2590 Highlands Burritos - (828) 526-9313 Highlands Deli SweeTreats - (828) 526-9632

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SB Sunday Brunch

Takeout Only

Dress Code

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Full Bar

HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS The 4118 Kitchen + Bar 64 Highlands Plaza (828) 526-5002 The Bistro at Wolfgang’s 460 Main Street (828) 526-3807 Calder’s Cafe 384 Main Street (828) 200-9308 The Dancing Bear at The High Dive 476 Carolina Way Fire + Water Restaurant Reservations Required (828) 526-4446 Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar 465 Main Street (828) 787-2990 Fressers Courtyard Cafe Village Square, 470 Oak Street (828) 526-4188 Highlands Smokehouse 595 Franklin Road (828) 526-3554 Hummingbird Lounge 455 Main Street Highlands, NC (828) 787-2525 * The Kitchen CarryAway & Catering 350 S. Fifth Street (828) 526-2110 Lakeside Restaurant Smallwood Avenue (828) 526-9419 Oak Steakhouse at Skyline Lodge 470 Skyline Lodge Rd (828) 482-4720 On the Verandah Highway 64 (Franklin Road) (828) 526-2338 Paoletti’s 440 Main Street (828) 526-4906 *Rosewood Market Main Street (828) 526-0383 The Ugly Dog Pub 298 South 4th Street (828) 526-8364 Wolfgang’s Restaurant 460 Main Street (828) 526-3807

The Restaurants of the Highlands Cashiers Plateau

Wine

Take Out

Outdoor Dining

Live Entertainment

Reservations Recommended

Vegetarian Selections

Plateau Dining Guide

Children’s Menu

To see the most up-to-date information about dining on the plateau visit thelaurelmagazine.com/restaurants

B, L, D n n n C n n 125 D n n n n C n n 165 B, L, D, SB n n n NC n n 4 B, L, SB n n C n n 163 Dress Code: C Casual

Los Vaqueros Mexican Restaurant - (828) 482-7040 Madison’s Restaurant - (828) 787-2525 Midpoint (828) 526-2277 Mountain Fresh - (828) 526-2400 Ruffed Grouse (828) 526-2590 Subway - (828) 526-1706 Primary Restaurant & Bar - (828) 526-3555 Wild Thyme Gourmet - (828) 526-4035 CASHIERS AREA RESTAURANTS Buck’s Coffee Cafe - (828) 743-9997 Canyon Kitchen - (828) 743-7967 Cashiers Valley Smokehouse (828) 547-2096 Chile Loco - (828) 743-1160 Cornucopia Restaurant - (828) 743-3750

NC Nice Casual

J Jacket

El Manzanillo - (828) 743-5522 JJ’s Eatery and Canteen - (828) 743-7778 The Library Kitchen and Bar - (828) 743-5512 Mica’s Restaurant - (828) 743-5740 Mountain Cafe - (828) 577-0469 Sapphire Mountain Brewing Company - (828) 743-0220 Slab Town Pizza -(828) 743-0020 Slopeside Tavern - (828) 743-8655 Subway - (828) 743-1300 Villa Amato (828) 885-7700 Wendy’s - (828) 743-7777 Whiteside Brewing Company - (828) 743-6000 Winslow’s Hideaway - (828) 743-2226

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Ad On Page

Pet Policy

Banquet Facilities Wireless Internet

Cable/Satellite TV

Exercise Facility

In Room Microwave/Fridge

Accommodations on the Highlands Cashiers Plateau

Whirlpool Rooms

On Site Restaurant

Plateau Lodging

On Site Bar/Lounge Pool

thelaurelmagazine.com/lodging

HOTELS / MOTELS / BED & BREAKFASTS 1600 Golden Road | Lake Toxaway, NC

earthshinenc.com | (828) 862-4207 n n

Fire Mountain

700 Happy Hill Rd | Scaly Mountain

firemt.com | (800) 775-4446 n n

Greystone Inn

220 Greystone Ln | Lake Toxaway

thegreystoneinn.com | (828) 966-4700 n n

Earthshine Lodge

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445 Main St | Highlands

oldedwardsinn.com | (866) 526-8008 n n n n n n n n n 67

470 Skyline Lodge Rd | Highlands

skyline-lodge.com | (828) 526-4008 n n n n n n 110

Old Edwards Inn and Spa Skyline Lodge

n n n 161

VACATION RENTALS The Vineyard at 37 High Holly 37 High Holly Road | Scaly Mountain thevineyardat37highholly.com | (828) 505-6190 n n n n n

VACATION RENTAL AGENCIES Berkshire Realty Vacation Rentals

488 Main Street | Highlands meadowsmountainrealty.com | (828) 526-1717

137

401 N 5th St | Highlands

highlandsiscalling.com | (828) 526-3717

Landmark Vacation Rentals

17 US Hwy 64 E | Cashiers

landmarkvacations.com | (877) 926-1780

168

Rent in Highlands - CCP

507 Main Street | Highlands

rentinhighlands.com | (800) 684-2171 x 302

135

341 Hwy 64 W, Ste 102 | Cashiers

ncliving.com | (828) 743-1999

220

Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals

Silver Creek Vacation Rentals

CASHIERS, NC: High Hampton Resort - (800) 648-4252 Hotel Cashiers - (828) 743-7706 The Lakehouse - (904) 753-0247 Landmark Vacation Rentals- (877) 926-1780 Mountain Vacation Rentals - (828) 743-0258 The Orchard Guest Cottage - (828) 743-7614 Pebble Creek Village - (828) 743-0623 Silver Creek Vacation Rentals - (828) 743-1999 The Wells Hotel A Cashiers Experience - (828) 761-6289 GLENVILLE, NC: Innisfree Bed & Breakfast - (828) 743-2946 Mountain Lake Rentals - (828) 743-6875 Prime Property Rentals - (828) 743-3482 HIGHLANDS, NC 200 Main - (855) 271-2809 Berkshire Realty Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-1717 Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-3717

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The Chateau - (561) 613-1496 Fairview House - (866) 526-8008 Half Mile Farm - (855) 271-7246 Highlander Mountain House - (828) 526-2590 Highlands House Bed and Breakfast - (828) 787-1186 Highlands Inn - (828) 526-9380 Highlands Inn Lodge - (828) 526-5899 Highlands Resort Rentals - (828) 526-5839 The Inn at Mill Creek - 828-526-9999 The Lodge at Old Edwards - (828) 787-2560 Lullwater House - (423) 488-2799 Old Edwards Inn and Spa - (866) 526-8008 Park on Main - (800) 221-5078 Ray’s Roost - (678) 534-6870 Rent in Highlands - CCP - (800) 684-2171 x 302 Rockwood Lodge - (828) 526-8919 Silver Creek Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-2999 The Wells Hotel - (828) 482-7736 Whiteside Cove Cottages - (828) 526-2222

SAPPHIRE, NC Club Wyndham Resort at Fairfield Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-3441 Foxhunt At Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-7667 Hampton Inn & Suites Cashiers-Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-4545 Mt Toxaway Lodge & Motel - (828) 966-4582 Sapphire Run at Whisper Lake - (863) 412-5734 Whispering Falls - (352) 470-4085 Woods at Buc - (770) 714-9211 SCALY MOUNTAIN, NC: Fire Mountain - (800) 775-4446 The Vineyard at 37 High Holly - (828) 505-6190 LAKE TOXAWAY, NC Cabins at Seven Foxes - (828) 877-6333 Greystone Inn - (828) 966-4700 Lake Toxaway Realty Company - (828) 508-9141

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SHOPPING Pages 140-149

photo by Susan Renfro

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FLORALS AND LACE This breathtaking cuff bracelet is handcrafted with 18k gold. It’s embellished with floral designs and gold filigree that hints of lace. Make a bold and feminine statement. 18k Cuff Bracelet | $11,000 Jannie Bean Designs | Highlands

COZY LOVE

This matching long pajama set goes together like a couple of lovebirds. Add color and playfulness to your wardrobe with this pair of birds as they remind you to embrace love and self-care every day. Long Sleep Set by Printfresh | $165 A Jones Company | Cashiers

NATURALLY ELEGANT These graceful glass candlesticks are hand blown and simply elegant. Pair these unique finds with all-natural beeswax candles for an elegant, natural look. Hand Blown Candlesticks | $ 85 ea. Beeswax Taper Candles | $26 CK Swan | Highlands

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Pl at e a u Pi c k s

fav o r it e fi n d s r u o f o w fe a

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SUSTAINABLE STYLE The ultimate crossbody bag made from recycled vegan leather in a woven mesh design for the most durable use for any bag. Great for a workout bag, school bag, computer bag, travel bag, hiking bag, fashion bag or whatever your goal for the day to complete bag. Crossbody Bag | $145 (available in a rainbow of colors) C. Orrico | Highlands

BLESS YOUR HOME

Bring the wonders of outdoors in with a variety of nature inspired finds. Bunny Topiary $28 99 | Bunny Hollow Soap $13 99 | Leaf Napkins $ 4 99 Bunny Hollow Guest Napkins $7 99 | Blessed Sign $3 99 Whistlin’ Dixie | Lake Toxaway

LOVE, PEACE AND HIGHLANDS We are mountain high in love with the casual wear designed by local artist Maggie Dearth. Depicting Highlands’ landmarks, these Ts and caps are super comfortable and proudly Highlands. Long Sleeve T $ 40 | Peace Cap $33 Allison Diane Clothing | Highlands

SYNERGY OF SHAPES

Give your energy and style a fashionable lift with the jewelry collection from David Aubrey. This double strand necklace is crafted with magnesite, brass, and serpentine. Pair it with striking 3-inch drop hand-finished brass earrings. David Aubrey Necklace $116 | David Aubrey Earrings $68 Bungalow Boutique | Cashiers

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The World of Design

at Acorns

Acorns, located at 212 South Four th Street in Highlands, has a full slate of trunk shows for August.

he August trunk shows at Acorns, Old Edwards’ home décor and furnishings store, present an exciting round of stunning art and original designs that would make extraordinary gifts – treasured for the unique collectibles they are. The shows all feature a considered assortment of functional decorative accents that are certain to add an elevated, artful touch to any space. Among the highlights are paintings from local artist Nancy Lichtman, and magnificent jewelry from Virginia based Elizabeth Locke – from quality porcelain clay pottery to coconut wax candles. On Saturday, August 6, you’re invited to meet Highlands painter Nancy Lichtman and explore her collection. Her portfolio reflects her love of nature and enchantment with horses – a fascination that began in early childhood, watching animals interact with each other as she rode through the pastures of her Alabama home. All of this is captured in the oils she paints of some of nature’s most uplifting wonders. 142 Aug us t 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

On Friday, August 12 through Sunday, August 14, Acorns will showcase Elizabeth Locke’s exquisite creations. The summer she spent touring ancient ruins and the years spent in Italy have proven to be an endless source of inspiration for jewelry designer Elizabeth Locke, who turns out elegant fine jewelry with an emphasis on feminine-infused delicacies and a stunning blend of stones. Among the highlights are the striking Greek and Roman coin pendants, and moonstone and silver pearl earring pendants that double as eye candy and the perfect gold link necklace. Meet artist Michael Hofman on Friday, August 19, through Sunday, August 21. He returns with his collection of exquisite porcelain to mix, match, and round out your tablescape. The dinnerware, vases and serving pieces he creates by hand in his Asheville studio, “combine lace, a fragile memory of days gone by with the stone-like strength of porcelain to create objects that

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will be cherished for generations.” Rounding out the month, Friday, August 26 through Sunday, August 28, Acorns spotlights Southern Bungalow. Presented in reusable statement-piece containers, each Southern Bungalow candle dances with cosmetic-grade fragrances and essential oils. They’re created from organic and clean-burning coconut wax, each fragrance is carefully curated and inspired by the artisan’s love of nature and fond memories of childhood in the South. There’s always something new happening in the world of design at Acorns. To learn more about these and future happenings visit acornshighlandsnc.com. by Marlene Osteen

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Sashay Around

For Sashay Around, deeply personal ser vice is just as impor tant as smar t contemporar y fashion sense.

ou’re doing something right when you’ve been in business for over 45 years and can boast of customers that return year after year.

and out the door looking and feeling like a million bucks.

Debi Stewart and Elphie

Sashay Around on Highway 107 N in Cashiers, one block north of the crossroads is just such a business. Serving the Highlands and Cashiers areas, they have built their reputation by selling high-quality clothing at reasonable prices and providing excellent customer service. They offer a wide array of styles from country club casual to dressy, so check out Sashay’s full array of contemporary classics: blouses, shirts, pullovers, skirts, pants, dresses, rainwear, and more. Accessorize with beautiful scarves, handbags, belts, and one-of-a-kind jewelry. From understated and classic to glitzy and glam they can have you fully outfitted, accessorized,

Look for pieces from American designers Nic & Zoe, Tyler Boe, Mycra Pac Raincoats, NYDJ Jeans, A’Nue Miami tops, Mary Frances purses, Hobo handbags and Sorelli and Amy Kahn Russell jewelry; or Canadian and European lines such as Spanner, Dolcezza, Marble Scotland, Stehmann pants, Zacket & Plover sweaters from Australia and Joules from Great Britain. Their excellent customer service promise is enhanced by their special-order service to ensure customers get the styles they want even if they are sold out of their size in the shop. Stop by their cute little cottage just north of the Crossroads and treat yourself to something new.

Edgewood Antiques

At Edgewood Antiques, 52 Perennial Drive in Cashiers, ever y thing old is welcomed into 21st centur y life.

alling all antique lovers, and who doesn’t love spending a day looking for that perfect piece to elevate your space? There’s a new kid on the block in Cashiers for you to check out and they’re already boasting a devoted clientele. Edgewood Antiques at 52 Perennial Drive (sharing a space with NAB) is your newest must-stop shop when you’re out antiquing. Edgewood specializes in antiques and fine furnishings, offering specialty pieces that complement any décor. Whether your look is traditional, contemporary, mid-century modern, or a bit more rustic, chances are that Edgewood Antiques will have something that will bring a distinct touch of class to your home. From large statement pieces such as chests, buffets, tables and china cabinets, to everything in between, including lamps and

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lighting, porcelain pieces, china, wall art, rugs and other accessories, Edgewood has all your home decorating bases covered.

every taste.

Shopping here becomes more of a one-stop shopping experience since they share their space with NAB, aka Not All Beige, who carry more contemporary items and accessories. Between the two businesses, they’re bound to have something for

Edgewood Antiques is open Wednesday through Saturday 11:00 A.M. until 4:00 P.M., or by appointment. You can reach them by email at edgewoodantiques@gmail.com. Please also check them out on Instagram at edgewoodcashiers.

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Wit’s End

adies, walking into Wit’s End at 382 Main Street in Highlands is the adult equivalent of walking into a candy store. It’s a delicious rainbow of colors, both subtle and bold, textures, and styles to match any occasion.

The endlessly surprising fashions at Wit’s End have earned it national recognition. If you’re looking for effortless and elegant jewelry, Wits End carries one of the most extensive collections of enewton jewelry. Its classic and gold-filled pieces are designed to be worn every day – you can sweat, swim and shower in it worry-free!

Susie Young

No wonder it’s been a Highlands tradition since 1940 and Main Street’s oldest shop. It is still owned and operated by the Young Family today. Few small businesses can boast the honor of being featured on the front page of The Wall Street Journal travel section of the weekend edition, but Wit’s End can. Their inventory is extensive, featuring looks for your every need, from playful and casual to dressy, with accessories galore. Third generation owner Susie Young and her friendly, helpful staff are adept at helping you find just what you need.

For classic cashmere, look no further than their collection of Kinross Cashmere. Known for its original creations that are inspired by nature, and modern in design, these pieces are hand-crafted to endure. They’re pure, natural, soft, and sophisticated. They also carry many classic and contemporary dress brands including the recently launched womenswear company with a conscience, Alivia. Wit’s End is open Monday through Saturday 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. and Sunday Noon to 5:00 P.M.

Mirror Lake Antiques

Stan and Donna Cochran’s Mirror Lake Antiques has earned landmark status over the course of its nearly 50 years.

irror Lake Antiques on the hill on Highlands’ South 4th Street has been in business for nearly 49 years, no small feat, and all thanks to the expertise and passion of owners, Stan and Donna Cochran. They have lovingly tended to their business as a cherished family member, and we are all the more fortunate for it. Walking into this light-filled space that glitters with all that is silver, gold, crystal and more, is a feast for the eyes and senses. They carry an astonishing inventory of sterling silver, both holloware and flatware; fine china in unique patterns like Flow Blue and Majolica; barware; glassware, including cut glass and art glass; pre-loved books; pottery pieces; wall art; and oh… the jewelry. A wide variety of estate pieces,

Stan and Donna Cochran

fashion pieces and more. Decorate your hands, wrists, ears and necks with rubies, diamonds, sapphires, or anything in between. Their ever-changing inventory reflects Donna and Stan’s keen eyes. Over the years, they found that people love to entertain, and they want to do it in style, with lovely pieces that showcase their efforts and complete a beautiful presentation.

They also encourage people to use their sterling silver and fine china – don’t relegate it to holidays – any day can be a special occasion. Mirror Lake Antiques is open 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Monday through Saturday so stop by and add a bit of sparkle and shine to your life.

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Pampered Personal

Shopping

Spoiled Rotten’s 34 years of business in Highlands is built upon an atmosphere of trust and friendliness and, of course, a dazzling inventor y.

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onna McDowell and her staff have been spoiling their customers rotten at the aptly named Spoiled Rotten boutique in Town Square for 34 years. Treat yourself to a visit to this charming store and let them outfit you for your next trip, evening on the town, or any special occasion. It’s pampered personal shopping for the discriminating customer at its best. Jonna says that what she loves most about her business, in addition to helping women look and feel their best, is that over the years her customers have become cherished friends. Spoiled Rotten offers a great assortment of looks for any occasion including casual, dressy and professional. Their selection of Krazy Larry slacks and jeans is second to none, so if you’re in the search for slacks that fit just right this is your one-stop shop. Whether you’re looking for wardrobe basics in solid colors such as black or white, or if you’re more in the market for a pop of color or a classic or playful pattern, you’ll find it here. Taller ladies take note, they also offer tall sizes.

You’ll also find blouses, tees, crops, jackets and more from names like Frank Lyman and Pure, clothing lines that embody comfort and style and travel well. They also boast one of the largest collections of Joseph Ribkoff clothing in the southeast. Their one-of-a-kind jewelry will complete your look and elevate your style and mood. From cubic zirconia rings and bands sprinkled with diamond dust that sparkle and shine like the real thing, to Simon Seabag sterling silver earrings that are bold and light as air, there are treasures to be found here. Even everyday items such as canes, readers, water bottles and key rings have been bedazzled and bejeweled with Swarovski crystals. Why not add a little sparkle to your everyday necessities? Spoiled Rotten is open Monday through Thursday 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.; Friday and Saturday, 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.; and Sundays Noon to 6:00 P.M. Spoil yourself and stop by. by Mary Jane McCall

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Linda Pryor and Lauree White

From the

Blueprint Up Armed with decades of experience and deeply honed ar tistic sensibilities, Atelier Maison’s Linda and Lauree offer a rich por tfolio of decorating possibilities. To discover the exciting prospects available for your own home, visit their studio at 188 Burns Street on the corner of Burns and Frank Allen in Cashiers.

uying, building, or remodeling a home is exciting – and challenging.

In creating your wonderful three-dimensional living space, floor to ceiling, front to back, inside and out, there are a million choices to be made. It can be daunting. That’s when Atelier Maison interior designers Linda Pryor and Lauree White come to your rescue. Between them they have 40 years of interior design ability. With that experience, almost anything is possible. Whether you want to highlight an exceptional view, choose, and install new bathroom fixtures, or select elevated contemporary furnishings for an entire new dwelling from the blueprint up, the staff at Atelier Maison is at your service. Not only do Atelier Maison staff members have access to a wide selection of in-house products, but they can custom order or custom design whatever your heart desires. Some express orders can take 12-16 weeks. While most of their customers appreciate all the above, there is one outstanding benefit that puts Atelier Maison over-and-above 148 Aug us t 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

competitors: most of their products are U.S.-made and created in environments that are earth-, people-, and animal-friendly. Examples – sustainable wood products; commodities that do not release gasses into the air you breathe; a commitment to making and keeping you and your home healthy. Make-a-date to visit the team at Cashiers Designer Showhouse. Delight in their treatment of the third bedroom upstairs. And while you are making dates, come to the store and meet Linda, Lauree, and Atelier Maison’s friendly staff. Bring routine questions for quick answers. For larger queries, schedule a design appointment. They’re open 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. every day but Sunday. Call (828) 743-8138 for more info. You can contact them at Linda@AtelierMaisonCo.com; Lauree@AtelierMaisonCo.com, and, of course, visit them at 188 Burns Street on the corner of Burns and Frank Allen in Cashiers. Designers are invited to sign up for special services through their to-the-trade department. by Donna Rhodes / photos by Susan Renfro

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Visit Our Advertisers WEST END

1. On The Verandah Restaurant 2. Highlands Smokehouse 5. The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts 6. The Bascom Shop 7. The Dave Drake Ceramic Barn at The Bascom

197. Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar 202. Country Club Properties 205. Silver Creek Real Estate Group 207. Creative Concepts Salon 208. Highland Hiker Shoes 210. Highland Hiker

SOUTH END

25. 4118 Kitchen & Bar 27. Dauntless Printing 30. The Literacy Council 38. Lupoli Construction 39. Allen Tate/Pat Allen Realty Group 44. Scott Neumann Law Office 46. M & Co 47. ACP Home Interiors 48. Nancy’s Fancys/ The Exchange 50. The Summer House 57. Blue Elephant Consignment Studio 58. Head Innovations 59. Cake Bar & Chocolate Heaven

MAIN STREET

100. Main Street Nursery 101. Rosewood Market 103. Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center 124. Landmark Realty 126. Shiraz Oriental Rug Gallery 132. Elevation: High Fashion for Women 134. The Southern Way 136. Dutchmans 140. The Toy Store/The Book Nook 141. Bags on Main 142. Main Street Gifts 146. Wit’s End Shoppe 147. Calders Coffee Cafe 148. Highlands Fine Art & Estate Jewelry + Wine Shop 152. Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty 153. Allison Diane Clothing 158. C. Orrico 159. Colonel Mustards 160. TJ Bailey for Men 163. Spoiled Rotten 166. Annawear 167. The Christmas Tree 169. Country Club Properties 174. Elena’s Women’s Golf and Activewear 178. McCulley’s II 185. Ristorante Paoletti 187. The Dry Sink 189B. Smitten 190. Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro 191. Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Meadows Mountain Realty 194. Old Edwards Inn 195. Madison’s Restaurant 196. The Wine Garden

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WRIGHT SQUARE on MAIN

(Factoid: Named after Whiteside hero) 113. Edward Jones 117. Country Club Properties, Wright Square Office

119. Highlands Pharmacy

ON THE HILL

302. Wish & Shoes 303. Mirror Lake Antiques 305. Jeanie Edwards Fine Art 306. Acorn’s 310. McCulley’s 311. Martha Anne’s on the Hill 312. The Ugly Dog Public House 313. Old Edwards Inn 318. Peggy Crosby Center: - The Kitchen Carry Away & Catering

319. Lakeside Restaurant

SPRING VILLAGE

400. Jannie Bean Fine Custom Jewelry 406. Brookings

OAK STREET

601. Highlands Playhouse

VILLAGE PARK

613. Cleaveland Realty 614. CK Swan 615. Shakespeare & Co. 617. Fressers Courtyard Cafe

CAROLINA VILLAGE

709. High Dive 709. Truckin’ at the High Dive 711. Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals

NORTH END

801. Green Mountain Builders 814. Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center 814. Highlands Cashiers Chamber Music Festival 814. Highland-Cashiers Players

OUT NC 106

➡ Aery Chiropractic ➡ Peak Experience ➡ Futral Construction ➡ Highlands Outpost ➡ Scaly Mountain Crafters ➡ Highlands Aerial Park ➡ 37 Vineyard at High Holly ➡ Fire + Water ➡ Pat Calderone Gallery ➡ Sky Valley Country Club

OUT 64 EAST

➡ Black Rock Design Build ➡ Berkshire Hathaway Homes Services Meadows Mountain Realty ➡ WHLC ➡ Highlands Lawn & Garden ➡ Skyline Lodge/ Oak Steakhouse ➡ Highlands Rock Yard ➡ Futral Construction ➡ Center for Plastic Surgery ➡ The Brier Patch ➡ Allen Tate/ Pat Allen Realty Group ➡ Highlands Dermatology ➡ Roman’s Roofing

For a complete listing please visit our website, thelaurelmagazine.com. Being added to our listing is easy! Simply advertise with The Laurel.

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Visit Our Advertisers SLABTOWN

2. Zookeeper Bistro 13. Crossroads Custard

NORTH 107

16. Stork’s - Wrap. Pack. Ship 19. The Look Boutique 20. Mountain Mermaid 21. Sashay Around Ladies Boutique

THE SHOPS AT CASHIERS COMMONS 25. Bella Cotn. 27. Bird Barn & Garden 28. Cashiers Kitchen Co. 30. Bombshell Hair Boutique 31. The Watershed Shoppe 33. Zoller Hardware

AT THE CROSSROADS 37. Landmark Realty Group 39. Cashiers Farmers Market 40. On the Side BBQ 41. Highland Hiker

CHESTNUT SQUARE

43. A Jones Company 45. Cashiers Valley Real Estate 47. Lehotsky & Sons, Builders 55. Fusion Yoga & Wellness 55. The Bungalow Boutique

112. Vivianne Metzger Antiques 115. J. Gabriel 121. Robin’s Nest 123. Caliber Fine Properties 128. Mountainworks Custom Home Design LTD. 131. Tampa Bay Trust Company 135. Dillard Jones 136. McKee Properties 137. Bounds Cave Rug Gallery 138. The Orchard Restaurant, Events Barn & Guest Cottage

THE VILLAGE GREEN 142.Village Green Commons 143. The Village Green 147. Bazaar Barn

WEST 64

155. Cashiers Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center 156. Creekside: - Silver Creek Real Estate Group 172. Whiteside Art Gallery 173. Betsy Paul Properties 176. Lenz Gifts

EAST 64

64. Alexander Gardens: - Victoria’s Closet - Victoria’s Closet Shoes & Purses - Vic’s for Men 75. Carolina Rustic Furniture 76. Blue Ridge Bedding 77. The Designers Market 78. Ann Lea Fine Art Gallery 81. Jennings Builders Supply

VILLAGE WALK

80. A-List Antiques 80. Beth Poindexter 80. Josephine’s Emporium 80. Laura Moser Art 82. The Village Hound 86. Nora & Co. 89. Nearly New Furniture Consignment 90. Gracewear Boutique

SOUTH 107

101. Narcissus 102. TJ Bailey’s for Men 103. Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming 104. Brookings Fly Shop & Cashiers Village Outfitters 105. Atelier Maison 106. Edgewood Antiques & Fine Art 107. Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Meadows Mountain Realty 108. Landmark Realty Group 109. Ugly Dog Public House 110. McCulley’s 111. Rusticks

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DOWN 107 SOUTH ➡ Silver Run Reserve

VISIT CULLOWHEE ➡ Four Seasons Landscape

VISIT GLENVILLE

➡ Silver Creek Real Estate Group

VISIT LAKE TOXAWAY ➡ Appalachian Construction ➡ Balistreri Realty ➡ Bear Tracks Travel Center ➡ Earthshine Lodge ➡ Grand Olde Station ➡ The Greystone Inn ➡ Headwaters Outfitters ➡ Historic Toxaway Foundation ➡ Historic Toxaway Market ➡ Killer Bees Honey ➡ Mountain Cafe ➡ Lake Toxaway Company ➡ Panthertown Cafe ➡ Petit Properties ➡ Root 64 ➡ Southern Highlands Reserve ➡ Whistlin’ Dixie

VISIT NORTON : ➡ Town and Country General Store VISIT SAPPHIRE : ➡ Appalachian Golf Cars ➡ Sapphire Valley Real Estate ➡ The Fix VISIT SYLVA : ➡ Imperial Security

, s r e i h s Ca arolina C th r o N For a complete listing please visit our website, thelaurelmagazine.com. Being added to our listing is easy! Simply advertise with The Laurel.

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L A K E T O X AWA Y

Preserving and

Protecting

The leafy treasures at Southern Highlands Reser ve are meant to be cherished for the ages.

L A K E T O X AWA Y

alking through the wooded mountain garden at Southern Highlands Reserve brings back childhood memories of freedom, exploration, delight and surprise. It’s peaceful there in a way few places are anymore, and the ancient heartbeat of the land will reverberate with your own. This hidden gem at the top of Toxaway Mountain has quietly been doing the work of preservation and restoration for 20 years. The main goal of the Reserve, a nonprofit native plant garden and research center, is to sustain the natural ecosystems of the Blue Ridge Mountains through the preservation, cultivation and display of plants native to the region. Accessible currently by reservation only, the Reserve is at an elevation of 4,500 feet and sustains a large and diverse collection of native Southern Appalachian plants and their cultivars — many of which struggle to survive elsewhere. For these reasons, the Reserve’s founders, Betty and Robert Balentine, decided two decades ago to make certain that no development would disturb the ecosystem, and that the land would, instead, be a place of regeneration – both figuratively and literally. Executive Director Kelly Holdbrooks says, “Not only is it a beautiful place to reconnect with nature, but also it’s one of

the best gardens in America, and partnerships and restoration are very important to us.” In fact, the Reserve has kicked off a capital campaign to fund a state-of-the-art greenhouse. In order to meet goals set with partners that include the U.S. Forest Service and The Nature Conservancy, the Reserve will increase production of red spruce trees to 50,000 from 10,000. Holdbrooks will also take part in the ceremonial lighting of the Capitol Christmas Tree — a red spruce from North Carolina — in Washington, D.C., this year. “Red spruce forests in the Southern Appalachian Mountains are the second most endangered ecosystem in the United States,” says Holdbrooks. “In our greenhouses, we grow seeds to saplings to young trees that we plant on public lands in Eastern Tennessee, Western North Carolina, and Virginia. We have a 90 percent success rate in propagation and planting.” Visit southernhighlandsreserve.org to tour or support the Reserve. by Deena Bouknight

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L A K E T O X AWA Y

Balistreri Realty

in Sapphire

For Realtor Kathy Balistreri, helping others discover the magic of this corner of Western Nor th Carolina is personal. To f ind out why she’s passionate about her profession and her community, call her at (828) 883-4848 or visit laketoxawayliving.com.

Melisa Collins and Kathy Balistreri

L A K E T O X AWA Y

n 1994 Kathy Balistreri, an interior designer and real estate broker, and her realtor husband left South Florida with their two children to take up residence in their vacation home on Lake Toxaway. They had forged a deep connection with the area on a visit in 1983, buying a lot on the lake and building there five years later.

her Florida license and got her North Carolina license; then launched her own business in Sapphire/Lake Toxaway in 2002. Having started selling real estate at the age of eighteen, (and during her 4 years at Florida State) Kathy learned there is more to being successful than just selling real estate... she realized she is also selling a lifestyle.

It was a bold move. Kathy had deep roots in her hometown. For three generations, the family’s real estate business, Balistreri Realty had been integral to the growth of the Boca Raton and Lighthouse Point communities. Kathy had grown up in the business – working summers during her teen years.

Her interior design skills have proven to be an additional asset in assisting her clients find the right property – helping them to visualize what they can do to an older home.

But the couple’s affection for South Florida had waned in the 1990’s and they had begun to crave something different, a new experience for their family. “Boca Raton was losing its small-town feeling. We wanted something simpler,” Balistreri said. “It was the right choice for our family.” For five years Kathy took a hiatus from work. She played golf at Lake Toxaway Country Club, got involved in the community, and helped her children settle into life on the Plateau. By the year 2000, her children were both at UNC Chapel Hill, so Kathy determined it was time to go back to work. She kept

Population on the Plateau has risen as more and more people have left the big cities, putting down roots in rural areas, seeking a deeper connection to the land – all made possible by the increasing viability of working from home. “Extraordinarily few homes are on the market, and that means home shoppers will really notice fewer options when they go house hunting,” said Balistreri. “And it means there’s more competition over the homes that do get listed. I have spent as much as four years with a client before finding a property, though the average is anywhere from two months to a year.” Balistreri sells and lists homes, businesses, and lots in all price ranges throughout the Plateau. She can be reached at (828) 883-4848 or laketoxawayliving.com.

L A K E T O X AWA Y

Appalachian

Golf Cars

The Hickock family has been spreading the good news about golf cars throughout Western Nor th Carolina. For more information, visit the Appalachian Club Car showroom at 18029 Rosman Hwy., Sapphire. Pictured left to right: Clark Hickock, Amber Hickock, Jason Hickock, Melanie McCall, Harry Jones, Randy Moretz, and Beasley (Dog) Not pictured: Frank Flores, Al Smith, Anthony Hall, Tate Singleton and MaryLou Hickock

L A K E T O X AWA Y

unscreen, fire pits, Yeti coolers, RV’s and ebikes. Name a thing that people use for recreation, and it’s a safe bet that sales boomed during the Pandemic.

Golf cars are no exception. Covid turbocharged the business, fueled by consumers tired of staying in. Desperate for stimulation they turned to thrills closer to home – like golf cars and low speed vehicles. It accelerated a sharp rise in sales to younger families who don’t play golf and are just using the golf car as a lifestyle vehicle. The upsurge in golf car sales has been good news for the Hickock family, owners of Sapphire’s Appalachian Golf Cars, dealers of Club Car, a leading golf car manufacturer based in Augusta, Georgia. According to Club Car’s vice president of marketing, consumer sales have roughly doubled since the pandemic. Appalachian Golf Cars had been in business since 1993 when the Hickocks bought the dealership in 2017 upon their retirement – leaving their home in San Diego. Clark Hickock had spent the years till then working in corporate America, traveling and buying and selling companies – he was a CEO when he retired. And Mary Lou had worked for many years in public schools as a speech therapist. Their son Jason and his wife joined the business during the pandemic in 2020, moving from Austin where Jason, a former U.S. Army

Ear thshine

Ranger, had worked in automotive management and Amber was employed at an HVAC outfit. Today Jason works alongside his dad as co-owner and General Sales Manager and Amber uses her degree in finance to help in the office. The Hickocks and their team are well known for providing superior service to customers in 11 counties in Western North Carolina. And they’re proud to be associated with Club Car, the best golf car manufacturer in the industry – recognized as leaders in efficiency and long-lasting value. The full-service dealership offers both new and reconditioned golf car sales, along with rentals, parts, and accessories. They maintain a full-service repair shop that combines excellent workmanship with exceptional customer service and are the only mobile mechanics in the area. Today they are the go-to golf car sales and service organization for most of the clubs on the mountains. One of North Carolina’s top-ranked dealers for Club Cars, they are distinguished for the unique buying experience they offer that pays close attention to individual needs. The company’s commitment to their customer is exemplified in their motto: “We are here to make your experience the very best it can be.” For more information, visit appalachiangolfcars.com. by Marlene Osteen / photo by Susan Renfro

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Live Like Camp

Catatoga Club is a clear escape from the stresses of 21st centur y life (though its loaded with 21st centur y amenities and indulgences). For more information, visit catatogaclub.com.

hen you turn off US 64, and head through the magnificent stone gates into Catatoga, you leave one world behind and enter another.

Catatoga Club at Lake Toxaway is a 250-acre private mountain community bordered by Gorges State Park, still largely untouched by traditional development. Up and down the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, second homeowners and fulltime residents live in places with golf courses and fancy clubs. Here, residents spend their time hiking pristine woodlands, fishing the lake and streams, and reading a book by an open fire. Instead of organized activities, the purpose here seems to be simply to soak up the astounding beauty of Catatoga’s scenic waterfalls and waterways, its forests and wildlife. What Catatoga is, is a retreat for those who respond to the mountains, who understand that it’s a place to exercise the imagination.

And what Catatoga offers to those who hear the call, as the website details, is “amenities closer to the land, understated and rustically right.” They include Lake Catatoga and its boathouse, Catatoga Falls and Indian Creek Falls, 2+ miles of private trout waters, gazebo, a 10+ acre meadow and a clubhouse with a pool, jacuzzi, lighted tennis courts, fitness center and gathering room. A rustic lodge on the property can accommodate guests of Catatoga with an expansive great room and six private bedroom suites. Bill Borg, whose marketing company Storypowered represents Catatoga, says: “Catatoga is the closest thing to a summer camp for adults. It’s not for someone who wants a highly programmed club; it’s a private nature-based alliance, a self-guided tour for people who want to explore at their own pace.”

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For much of the last decade Catatoga was operated as the area’s top wellness center and spa with a handful of homeowners and spa guests to enjoy its hidden secrets. Recently, with the real estate market booming, the decision was made to open the next phase of development within Catatoga by releasing Hawks Ridge Cottages, which includes 20 scenic mountain homesites, lot/home packages and several existing cottages used in the wellness operation. As soon as the cottages hit the market, they sold quickly. Additional homes are already under way. “Catatoga presents a unique opportunity for those looking for a place to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories as our family has done over the years” says Catatoga President, Harrison Merrill, who also leads the development of Catatoga’s sister property Foxhall Resort. The good news is Catatoga is now available for nature lovers hoping for a chance to move into Shangri-La. by Marlene Osteen

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HISTORY Pages 172-176

photo by Susan Renfro

H ISTORY

Highlands First

Gourmet Restaurant

The Tarheel was Highlands’ f irst entr y into f ine dining.

id-century, c. 1945, Highlands’ very first gourmet restaurant, The Tarheel, opened and quickly became a popular dining destination. It was painted bright blue and white. The owner, Bill Way, was an alum of the University of North Carolina, home of the blue-and-white Tarheels.* Way’s wife, Day, oversaw the kitchen. She was a grand cook. Her mother was from Germany, so she was raised on continental fare, foods like shrimp cocktail, sauerbraten, and such. Townsfolk found it a refreshing change from the accustomed regional fare. To expand the restaurant services, Day got permission from the Forest Service to open a concession at Dry Falls. Tony (Isabel’s future husband) and Bud, Isabel’s brother, ran the stand. But there were a couple of hiccups in their plan – one, since there was no heat, refrigeration, or lockable storage at the falls, the crackers, candy, peanuts, soft drinks, etc. had to be hauled down to the stand every morning, then packed up at day’s end and returned to The Tarheel. The second problem: neither boy had a driver’s license, so they had to talk Isabel into chauffeuring them down and back every day. On an afternoon when customers were scarce, Bud got bored and, without permission, decided to paint great big eyes peeking out from under the eaves of the state-owned building. On the side of the structure, he wrote: “Look what we’ve got!”

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H ISTORY Bud was very proud of his work, and it could have been good advertising – but he’d neglected to clear it with the Forest Service before he started slapping paint on the wall. It wasn’t long before Bud was summoned by the Forest Service for a dressing down. As punishment, the three of them had to paint over Bud’s handiwork. At summer’s end their employment and all it taught them (e.g., don’t paint eyeballs on public buildings) ended, and back to school they went. The Tarheel closed as Bill was needed more by Uncle Sam in ’45 than Highlands. But to this day, if you stop by Dry Falls and take a good, hard look at the building, you can still see a huge pair of eyes gawking back at you. And, by the way, Dry Falls, Van Hook Campgrounds, and Cliffside were all constructions of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a project created by President Franklin Roosevelt to keep young men working during hard times. As a relatively recent installation, one can understand why painting eyeballs on the new building was, poetically-speaking anyway, a bit of a federal offense. *North Carolina’s pine forests supplied tar and turpentine for America and foreign exports. Distilling it was hard, messy labor, however. Workers walking in the spillage wound up with a forever sticky, black goo all over their ankles. They were recognized by folks near and far as Tarheels, and that stuck, as it were, to all residents of North Carolina. As told to Donna Rhodes by local historian Isabel Chambers

The Cashiers Historical Society is seeking the community’s votes for its 2022 Village Heritage Awards.

he Cashiers Historical Society continues to pursue their mission of preserving the heritage of the entire Cashiers Valley in a variety of ways. During the early years of the Society, its focus was dedicated to the preservation of the Zachary-Tolbert House. However, the group kept its overall mission to “preserve the heritage of the entire Cashiers Valley through stewardship, advocacy and education.” To help ensure the character of the Valley, CHS commissioned architectural historians to research and assemble a list of historic sites in Cashiers. From that research, CHS established the annual Village Heritage Award in 2003. The purpose of the award is to recognize and celebrate annually the historic preservation in Cashiers of an existing structure that has been nominated by local residents. Residents nominate a property based on the criteria that it has been built or repurposed in keeping with the old village feel.

Additional criteria include that the property has attractive landscaping with native material and moderate lighting. Nominees must also be located within the boundaries of highway 107 N to the Continental Divide, 107 South to Cashiers United Methodist Church; Highway 64 East to the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society and Highway 64 West to the Continental Divide. Nominations for the 2022 Village Heritage Award must be submitted in writing. Deadline for this year’s nominations is Friday, August 5. Forms may be picked up at Albert CarltonCashiers Community Library, CHS or online at cashiershistoricalsociety.org/ village-heritage-award. This year’s presentation of the 2022 Village Heritage Award will be Thursday, September 8. Location and time will be announced soon. For more information, contact CHS at (828) 743-7710. by Mary Jane McCall

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H ISTORY

Donna Rhodes

Marlene Osteen

Deena Bouknight

A Tip of the Quill to Our

Mary Jane McCall

Writers

It’s really no secret how we’ve built our friendship between this little magazine and our readers.

hile we’re in the midst of celebrating our 20 years of publishing this little magazine, it’s only fair that we devote a bit of space to honor the women and men who make The Laurel shine – our flock of writers and our deep pool of contributors. Now some of you may take exception to my use of the word “shine,” thinking it’s a publisher’s term of art that’s just this side of Hype Street. But I’m using the word deliberately, because back in April the good people at Pew Research contacted our editor about ways in which our little magazine earns the trust of our readership. Though we were by far the smallest minnow in their pool of contacts (which included big name publications with a national reach), they were keen on figuring out how we build our relationship with the people of the Plateau (and even those just passing through). It quickly became obvious through the direction of their questioning that the people at Pew Research were homing in on the quality of our writers and contributors. Did our editor shape their prose and their style to give their words resiliency and savor? Nope, he answered, we trust our writers to deliver their work in their own distinctive voice. That’s a reflection of the decision we made 20 years ago, when we were dreaming up The Laurel. We wanted this magazine to maintain a friendly voice, which you could imagine being stated by a wise friend over a cup of coffee at Tommy’s or Buck’s. 174 AU G U S T 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

We knew the personalities of our contributors and writers were varied, passionate, and sometimes just a bit eccentric, but they were all genuine – and they were all light-years removed from the dusty conventions of standard journalistic death-prose. So when you’re reading this issue of The Laurel, or plunging into our archived editions, see if you can hear the sweet clear voice of Deena Bouknight as she guides you along the trail around The Bascom; or Mary Jane McCall as she delineates the unique treasures to be discovered on the Plateau’s boutiques; or Marlene Osteen who delivers decades’ worth of wisdom with her wine and restaurant reviews; or Donna Rhodes, our resident art critic and observer of the absurd. There’s no mistaking the warmth and passion embedded within Winter Gary’s Highlands Biological Foundation’s monthly reports; or William McReynolds’ wise examination of why every day of each month is a cause for celebration; or Matt Canter’s ability to walk us into the midst of a mountain stream and understand the irresistible pull of a Brown Trout; or Stuart Ferguson’s scholarly examination of the quirks of personality and twists of fortune that somehow shaped the HighlandsCashiers Plateau. These are all voices you can trust, and they give our magazine a unique style, one that’s attracted the notice of experts far beyond the Plateau, people anxious to divine the secrets of the deep bonds between The Laurel and, of course, you. Thank You, our Writers; and thank you, our Wonderful Readers. by Luke Osteen

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H ISTORY

Masa’s Wild

Vision

A new volume explores George Masa’s rugged travels through the wild spaces of Western Nor th Carolina. You can learn more at the September 8 Zahner Lecture Series, set for 6:00 P.M. at the Highlands Nature Center.

eorge Masa’s Wild Vision: A Japanese Immigrant Imagines Western North Carolina by Brent Martin has Highlands connections and is a great new book about conservation, photography and history. Masa (1881-1933) was born in Japan, but by 1915 was in Asheville. He got a job at the Grove Park Inn, first in their laundry but then quickly became the hotel’s photographer. Soon Masa had his own studio in Asheville, taking photos and selling his postcards of the local scenery. He fell in love with our southern mountains and spent all his free time capturing their beauty on film. He became fast friends with Horace Kephart, author of Our Southern Highlanders and an early advocate for a national park in the Smokies. George Masa’s Wild Vision is not a straightforward biography of the photographer (which is in the works) but rather Mr. Martin’s meditations on the mountains’ influence on Masa, and his on them. In 1929 Highlands Inn owner Frank Cook hired Masa to take photos promoting the area. Thanks to Cook’s daughter, Beverly Cook Quin, those images are now owned by the Highlands Historical Society. Cullasaja Gorge, Whiteside and the then-

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new Highlands Country Club are among the local subjects of Masa’s artistry with the camera. Hub City Press in Spartanburg is to be congratulated for publishing such a beautiful tome. Masa’s images are reproduced in all their magnificence and intelligence, the design is great and the paper amazing. Mr. Martin’s prose is pretty amazing, too. A resident of Cowee Community and a noted conservationist, he is currently the Executive Director of the Blue Ridge Bartram Trail Conservancy, as well as being a published poet and essayist. With his wife, Angela, he owns Alarka Expeditions, which take you on wonderful treks. In fact, Mr. Martin recently told me that the Highlands Biological Station “provided housing and a setting for me to work for a solid week on the Highlands chapter. It seemed like the perfect place to think about Masa on the Highlands Plateau.” Mr. Martin is delivering the September 8 talk on Masa in the Zahner Lecture Series at the Highlands Nature Center at 6:00 P.M. If I were you, I’d go. by Stuart Ferguson, Local Historian, Co-Owner Shakespeare & Company

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photo by Susan Renfro

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

Family

Foundation

Parker and Al Platt

Father and son Al and Parker Platt remain at the hear t of the dynamic PLATT. To learn more about its ser vices, visit platt.us or call (828) 884-2393.

LATT combines father and son talents – and more. The company began after Al Platt studied literature at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, taught school for a few years, and then returned to study architecture at North Carolina State University, where he obtained a master’s degree and afterwards founded an architectural firm in 1982. His son, Parker Platt, also attended N.C. State and secured a degree in architecture; he even sat under some of his father’s same professors. After graduating in 1994, Parker joined his

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father in what is now a four-decades-old business that started off at a desk in Al’s bedroom. Currently, with a team of nearly 50, the firm has expanded from architecture into construction, into real estate and land conservation, and most recently into interior design. Based in Brevard, PLATT is a full-service firm with projects throughout the Southern Appalachian Highlands and beyond. Two years ago, Parker took over the business from Al and became principal owner and president. However, Parker

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

emphasizes that his father, currently running for North Carolina House in the 119 District, made up of Jackson, Swain, and Transylvania Counties, regularly maintains a strong and active advisory role with the company.

Al was drawn to the mountains by his late wife’s father, who was instrumental in the development of Sapphire Valley. When he finished college, he secured a job in Brevard and that is where the family settled and where Parker grew up.

PLATT specializes in custom homes and unique commercial structures and has successfully completed over 500 projects nationwide. Many of the projects have drawn recognition due to their unique attention to sensitive planning, the use of indigenous materials, and the ability to capitalize on surrounding views, abundant daylight, and sustainable practices.

“I’m just really fortunate to be able to continue what Dad started,” said Parker. “He’s a very talented designer, has been a great mentor, and has patiently and quietly helped many, many families connect in a meaningful way to this beautiful place that we’re lucky to call home.”

“We relate our projects to their settings in an attempt to complement landforms, foster belonging, and soften the boundaries between indoors and out,” noted Parker.

by Deena Bouknight

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Diane McPhail

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Historical Fiction

Local artist Diane McPhail draws upon a writer’s instincts and an understanding of history and twisty politics for her second novel, The Seamstress of New Orleans.

magine this: “The year 1900 ushers in a new century and the promise of social change, and women rise together toward equality. Yet rules and restrictions remain, especially for women like Alice Butterworth, whose husband has abruptly disappeared. Desperate to make a living for herself and the child she carries, Alice leaves the bitter cold of Chicago far behind, offering sewing lessons at a New Orleans orphanage. There she meets recently widowed Constance Halstead. Their lives become entwined as murder and mystery follow.” This is a synopsis of local author Diane McPhail’s new book, released May 31, The Seamstress of New Orleans. The novel, McPhail’s second, is already garnering attention on GoodReads as a top historical book, and an interview with McPhail will be featured on National Public Radio’s The Writing Life. McPhail is an artist, writer, and minister, and a member of North Carolina Writers’ Network and the Historical Novel Society. The Abolitionist’s Daughter, published in 2019, was her debut novel. “My inspiration for The Seamstress of New Orleans is multifaceted,” said McPhail. “After [Hurricane] Katrina, I had an

apartment in the French Quarter for a couple of years. There I had the wonderful experience of riding with an all-women’s krewe for Mardi Gras; the krewe of Iris, of which my friend Dian Winingder had been Queen. I became fascinated by the history of the very first women’s krewe, Les Mysterieuses, and the efforts of women towards equal rights, culminating in the vote 20 years later. “I spent days and weeks in the various archives and museums of New Orleans absorbed in research of all kinds to bring this book together. My research led me into the fascinating history of Storyville, a sanctioned red-light district named for the city councilman who proposed it, and the crime syndicate operating there, known as the Black Hand. The relationship of the two women at the core of the novel came from numerous sources, including a factual story.” The Seamstress of New Orleans is available online and at local bookstores, such as The Book Nook and Shakespeare and Company in Highlands. by Deena Bouknight

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Avoid These Estate-Planning Mistakes

hen many people hear the words “estate planning,” they assume it’s just for the wealthy. But that’s not the case, because everyone can benefit from an estate plan. And when you’re creating one, you’ll want to avoid some common mistakes. Before we look at those mistakes, let’s go over what estate planning is designed to accomplish. Essentially, an estate plan allows you to pass on your assets in the way you desire. But it can also specify other actions, such as naming someone to care for your minor children if you were no longer around. In creating an estate plan, several key documents are involved, including a will, a trust, a financial power of attorney and a medical power of attorney or a health care directive. Now, let’s consider a few estate-planning mistakes: • Not communicating your plans – You’ll

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need to inform your family about whom you’ve chosen as executor – the individual who will administer your estate – and whom you’ve named as the trustee – the person who will manage your trust’s assets. (You can also choose a trust company to handle this duty.) And to help avoid unpleasant surprises when your estate is being settled, consider letting your children or other close relatives know who will be receiving what. • Not reviewing your plans periodically – Once you create your estate plans, don’t forget about them. Over time, your personal situation may change – you may experience a remarriage or bring in new children. Your interests may change, too – perhaps you’ll become deeply involved in supporting a favorite charitable organization. Given these and other potential changes, you’ll want to review your estate plans once in a while to see if they need to be modified.

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS • Not updating beneficiary designations – Every so often, you may want to review the beneficiary designations on your life insurance policies, investment accounts and retirement assets. As mentioned, changes in your life, such as remarriage and the addition of new children, may affect your beneficiaries. Beneficiary designations are powerful and can even supersede your will, so you’ll want to update them as needed. Also, if you have a 529 education savings plan, you’ll want to name a successor owner – someone who can take over your 529 if you were to pass away. • Not re-registering assets placed in a trust – A living trust offers you many potential benefits, such as the ability to bypass the time-consuming and highly public process of probate when it’s time to settle your estate. However, just establishing the trust, by itself, may be insufficient – you likely also need to re-

register assets, such as your investments, so they are officially owned by the trust, not by you. This is essential for the trust to work as you intended. Here’s one other mistake – not getting the help you need. Estate planning can be complex, so you’ll want to work with an attorney, and possibly with your financial advisor and tax professional, too. By avoiding key mistakes and collaborating with a qualified team of professionals, you can create and maintain an estate plan that will help you leave the legacy you wish.

Todd Holder

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC

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LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

Re-Reflux

With some wise counsel, you can tame GERD.

o, you’ve been told that you have Acid Reflux (AR) or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)? This can be uncomfortable and bothersome, if left alone can lead to more serious issues, or it can go away with some educated help and No Drugs! The most common and quick medical remedy for AR/GERD is medications, either over the counter or prescription. These are called PPI’s or Proton Pump Inhibitors. Unfortunately, these medications actually stop the production of all stomach acid and that’s not good. Many people don’t know much about digestion and wouldn’t think twice about a PPI to block stomach acid, thereby stopping acid reflux, and causing further health issues by not actually addressing the true problem.

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First and foremost, good health depends hugely on good digestion and good nutrition. We get our fuel, nutrients, vitamins and minerals from healthy and real foods and excellent digestive function. This starts in the stomach with the production of HCL or Hydrochloric Acid. HCL is essential for proper digestion and food breakdown, which is what allows the body and small intestine to absorb the micronutrition for your health. If a drug blocks the production of HCL, we absorb very little of our foods, we can develop gas and bloating, discomfort and irregular bowel movements, ultimately causing health problems due to limited absorption of essential vitamins and minerals, and even leading to degenerative diseases. So here is how this works: as we age and often eat more processed foods, sugars and alcohol, we can

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS develop GERD due to the lack of HCL in the stomach, a condition known as Hypochlorhydria. The problem here is that the food stays undigested and in the stomach longer than it should, and it putrefies or ferments, thereby causing an acidic condition which then bubbles back up through the esophagus and causes “reflux.” This is a very unpleasant experience! The stomach is designed to produce just the right amount of HCL to break the food down quickly so that it can continue into the intestines for nutrient delivery and formation of good BM (bowel movement). The problem is not this, but the immediate action of taking a medication to stop the acid, destroying the body function, denying nutrient absorption and, over time, leading to a breakdown of other areas of the body, namely bone density

and the nervous system. The easier and healthier solution is to take a simple supplement of betaine HCL with your meal. But be careful if you have been on PPIs for a long time, there must be a knowledgeable health provider to help with the transition so that the body has time to adjust to this process of supporting the system instead of blocking the natural digestion. Reach out if you’re looking for better health and AR relief! by Dr. Sue Aery, Aery Chiropractic & Acupuncture

Dr. Sue Aery

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Body

School

Working with the body is a process requiring a range of skills, critical thinking and intuition.

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Ashby Underåwood Garner

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e are trained to see your potential, even when you can’t.

A smart body is moving through its architecture as it has been designed with balance and strength. The smart body has reached the point where the ability to perform a task, as in a squat, or naturally walking down the street in a good movement pattern comes without an over-effort of thought. The ever-evolving field of body training offers poignant solutions to helping a body that moves randomly toward one with better organization. What I expect from a healthy and strong functioning body is: Durability: to remain in good condition for a lifetime; Utility: to train the body so that it is suitable for the purpose intended; Beauty: to move with grace and ease for any body type or age. In addition to science, the experience of self-discovery based on smart movement education is just as important as “getting it right” mechanically. Each new skill becomes something to master, a language for movement, which can increase neural pathways for a person. Each client is enlightened, somewhat surprised and relieved,

when they feel new things. And this teaches us new things about ourselves that we can express more fully and with more purpose. People say to keep sharp we should try learning a new language. But instead of Italian or Portuguese, we can learn the language of movement. Movement becomes expression. If we struggle in our everyday movement over time, we manifest pain. If we have a good teacher to watch, assess and make suggestions to enhance our movement, we benefit. We learn something new that moves with us and moves us. Peter Melchior, a great Rolf Mentor said, “You cannot experience true movement until you allow yourself to be moved”. Each body part contributes to the overall smoothness of body movement and balance. And each part from the foot to the knee, to the hip and ribs, to the spine, head, neck and arms, should all be communicating together. When we take time to narrow our focus through precision on each part working well, we expand our ability to feel unified and our mind becomes serene. Learn more about our approach at YogaHighlands.com. by Ashby Underwood-Garner Yoga Therapist, Rolf Practitioner Owner of Yoga Highlands

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LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

Journaling A A Tool for Well Being

The practice of keeping a daily journal brings a clearer perception and livelier interpretation of life’s problems and possibilities.

s a Life Coach and previous counselor, I encourage my clients to keep a journal as a tool to enhance their self-awareness and personal growth. I myself have been an avid journaler for almost two decades. Here are five reasons I recommend it to clients, continue to use it as a means for my own well-being, and encourage you to try it as a tool to living your best life. • DECISION MAKING: Getting quiet and taking the time to write out the pros and cons of decisions, especially major ones, unclutters the mind, brings clarity, and gives insight into which choice best matches the values and desires you are wanting in your life. • PROBLEM SOLVING: Writing out an issue, whether it’s a business dilemma or a relationship struggle, can help clarify what is really going on. Solutions often arise from taking a close look at the issue and our thoughts and feeling

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around them. An added benefit to this process is an enhanced ability to solve things more creatively. • A SAFE PLACE TO DEAL WITH HARD EMOTIONS: Grief, heartbreak, betrayal, and other complicated emotions find a safe home in your journal. Unexpressed emotions can have a toll on our health. Using your journal to release emotions keeps our physical body healthy, as well as our mental and emotional well-being. In addition, the more we’re able to express emotions in our journal, the better we become at communicating them to others in a skillful way, thus improving communication and healthier relationships. • SELF AWARENESS: You can learn a great deal about how you process events and your typical thought patterns through journaling. Some of these may be pleasant to discover and others will be helpful in aiding changes towards a more authentic, loving self.

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS • DEEP DISCOVERIES: I never tire of seeing how journaling uncovers wisdom, creativity, compassion, and more loving and skillful ways of being. The act of writing itself and a desire to understand why things are the way they are in one’s life, can lead to a very deep uncovering of these internal resources. Typical of new journal keepers is Page Fright, the fear of the blank page and what to write, the fear of writing and not being a writer, the fear of not wanting anyone to find and read their journal. All valid fears. Journaling, however, is not like writing a book or a school essay. It can be in the form of lists, bullet-point phrases, even drawings or pictures. There is no worry about spelling, grammar, or punctuation. Letting go of the “inner critic” – the little voice that says you can’t write, or you shouldn’t write that – is also essential. There’ s no need for censoring in a journal. It is

important that you feel safe so you can express all your thoughts and feelings. Find a safe place to keep your journal or, if you write something you hope no one ever reads, tear it out then throw it away or burn it. The point is to be able to express your feelings and thoughts… the good, the bad, and the ugly. That freedom alone will change your life. If you like to journal or are interested in journaling, our Barbara Banks holds a monthly class at Cashiers Valley Fusion Yoga and Wellness Center. The monthly classes focus on different journaling techniques with participants taking part in journal exercises. The topics are different each month. She will also be starting and in-depth six-week journaling series in August. Go to CashiersValleyFusion.com/events for more information.

Barbara Banks

by Mary Abranyi, Cashiers Valley Fusion Yoga & Wellness

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couldn’t think of a thing to rant about this month. Self says, “Uh, Donna, have you looked at the news lately? It’s wall-to-wall rant material.”

“Exactly,” I said. “That’s my point. I want to write something that will cheer me and readers, give us hope, not re-hash worrisome headlines.” I went to my favorite resources for mood-sweetening prompts. First, Urban Thesaurus. I searched for words that are positive, yet borderline so we can laugh and get away with the guilty pleasure. The best of the lot were bwonk, oh-my-giggle, and hilarium. Alas, ‘all three a disappointing Meh. When U.T. doesn’t put a smile on my face, I go to my kitchen and look out the back yard window. There I might catch the acrobatics of Stumpy, the Evil Knievel of Squirreldom. He outsmarts my $150 squirrel-proof (hahaha) bird feeder no matter how I rig it. Stumpy, (a victim of tail-envy; how he lost half his appendage we shall never know), is a symbol of everlasting hope. He climbs a telephone pole, does a Rocket J. Squirrel maneuver, and jumps/flies from pole to feeder (about 12 feet away). As Stumpy snags hold of the perch (and rights himself), his weight triggers a spin mechanism. The perch spins clockwise. Stumpy runs on it counter-clockwise, grabbing at the feeding holes as they go spinning by, sending seeds spiraling in a circular swath under the feeder where birds and fellow squirrels cheer him on as they score sunflower seeds, peanuts, and corn kernels. My birdseed bill is astronomical, Stumpy. But I must applaud your Tarzan-tree creds. Such choreography. Eventually I go to my ultimate happy source: Uncle John’s Bathroom Reader. I’ll leave you with the following quotes in hopes Uncle John and Stumpy get your day off to a worry-free, if not ludicrous start. “A day of worry is more exhausting than a day of work.” John Lubbock “Worry is interest paid on trouble before it falls due.” Dean Inge “For fast-acting relief, try slowing down.” Lily Tomlin

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by Donna Rhodes illustration by Norma Jean Zahner

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The Chemistry Was

Right

Jody and Wood Lovell

For Jody and Wood Lovell, it was an easy swing into love. ody Lovell was about to start a new chapter in her life.

during which, as it was told to me, “We immediately fell in love.”

She had just completed post graduate studies as a lawyer at Oxford and was moving from London to Atlanta to work for the prestigious law firm King & Spalding. And she was eagerly looking forward to her new residence – a condo in Park Place, home to Elton John.

Jody recalls that “He was so handsome and kind. The chemistry felt right.”

Married once before, Jody recognized that the only thing missing in this idyllic scenario was someone to share her exciting future. It was 1995, and the internet was still in its nascent days – years away from a place where relationships were created. People generally met on blind dates. She was mulling all this over with a colleague when her friend remarked that she was pals with a guy whose wife had died the year before. She would see if he might be ready to start dating again. 48-year-old Wood Lovell was the father of two boys and the owner of a real estate company that traded in apartment complexes. He was, as it turned out, ready for a match up. And so, their story moves on to their first date at a trendy restaurant in Atlanta’s Virginia Highlands neighborhood – 194 AU G U S T 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

Wood speaks of that first date with affection, “I knew right away this was the kind of woman I wanted to marry. She had everything I wanted in a partner – a great sense of humor, intelligence, great looks. It was a fantastic first date and we were tight from then on.” As it happened, Jody beat out what she refers to as the “casserole carrying crowd” – the bevy of Atlanta divorcees in hot pursuit of Wood, one of the rare bachelors in town. Jody claims that it was really her status that won the day – “no children, no pets, in short, no baggage.” (“Not so,” says Wood.) Within a year the relationship became, as Wood said, “very serious.” But his main concern was his sons, his foremost priority. And so, it wasn’t until three years later, on a trip to Venice with Jody and the boys, that Wood finally proposed. While Jody was out

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

Jody and Wood, 2005

shopping, Wood told the two young men that he was thinking of asking her to marry him, and they responded enthusiastically, “You would be crazy not to.” That evening on the Piazza San Marco under a moonlit sky on a summer evening, orchestras played in the background and couples milled about while Wood proposed. They wed In December 1999, with Wood’s sons officiating as co-best men, at a small ceremony at Atlanta’s All Saints Episcopal Church. It was during their dating years that Wood started playing golf, and he and Jody began regularly visiting Highlands – eventually buying a home on Flat Mountain. In 1999 they joined the Cullasaja Club. The following year the Arvida Corporation sold the club to its members, vacating their real estate office. Hearing the news, Wood was motivated, “Jody was traveling all the time and I had been doing the same thing for 35 years. So, I decided to make a play for the real estate office, and they turned the keys over to me.” They moved to Highlands full time, and within a few days Jody joined Wood in the office.

In 2008 Sotheby’s was searching for a company to represent their brand and selected Jody and Wood. From their start in 2000 with a staff of three, they now employ 36 brokers. It’s an accomplishment they cite as a demonstration of the strength of their marriage. “I am proud of the fact that we came up here not knowing anyone and through work and friendship we were able to build a strong company with incredible people,” Jody said. “We are one of the few couples that can live and work together 24/7.” Wood describes life in Highlands as the most joyous time of his life, “Every day we get up and pinch ourselves. We can’t believe we live here and have made so many great friends. Highlands offers so much, the people who come to the Plateau are some of the nicest and most genuine people in the world and we get to meet them.” Their sons, attorneys with a total of five children between them, visit frequently from their homes in Raleigh and Atlanta. by Marlene Osteen

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Ann Mckeee Austin

Women Who Shape the

Plateau

Angela Williams, with husband Art and grandchildren

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It’s all About

Family

Though she is relentlessly determined to stay out of the spotlight, Angela Williams has had a profound effect on Highlands and its people, now and far into the future.

hose of us who are fortunate to call Highlands home and visitors alike, all appreciate the unique qualities that make our little slice of heaven what it is – natural beauty, friendly people, and a family-friendly atmosphere that’s hard to find and impossible to duplicate. It takes a village and a deep love to appreciate what was, preserve what is, and look to the future to be certain that we change only for the better, keeping us always a community in which families thrive and connect. Few love our town like Angela Williams, and few have given so freely of their time, vision, and resources to ensure that Highlands grows and thrives, while always remaining a place where families and multi-generations can gather and connect. Her enthusiasm and love for Highlands are infectious, and she becomes especially animated when speaking of families, children and the arts. Her love of Highlands began in the 1940s when her family often made Highlands their vacation destination, usually staying at Lee’s Inn. Memories of those vacations are close to her heart as perfect moments of family togetherness and fun – family dinners in the Lee’s Inn dining room, strolling Main Street and shopping in a dress or antique store, stopping by Bill’s Soda Shop, or enjoying a simple drive around the countryside. Her husband, Art, had similar childhood memories of Highlands, so from the beginning of their married life they visited here as often as their burgeoning business in Atlanta allowed. Giving back to the community she holds near and dear is second nature to Angela and the fruits of her generosity are enjoyed by all. Preserving, enriching, and beautifying this special place for generations to come is first and foremost in her heart, particularly if it benefits families and children. Generations of her family have enjoyed Highlands and she wants future generations to have the same opportunities. Highlands business owner and County Commissioner James Tate, says, “Because I am a landscaper, my first thought of Angela Williams would immediately go to her affinity for flowers, but in reality, her appreciation for floriculture pales in comparison to her absolute love for the Highlands community. And, because of this love and her passion for philanthropic endeavors, every single resident of our town has, in one way or another, been blessed by the graciousness of her heart.”

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Through the years she has generously contributed to numerous projects throughout town, the most visible being Main Street’s Old Edwards Inn, the world-class hotel and spa that has breathed new life into downtown and made us a year-round destination. Still, the projects she holds dearest and speaks most warmly about are all about families. The retractable pool cover at the Rec Park swimming pool ensures that families have year-round access to a pool. The enclosure, coupled with an ultramodern timing system, has allowed our children a chance to swim competitively. Ice skating is an activity that is practically synonymous with winter in Highlands and thanks to Mrs. Williams families can once again enjoy ice skating during winter at the skating rink at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. The park itself is a beehive of family activities and her generosity to park renovations has helped make that possible. The Peggy Crosby Center, the Literacy and Learning Center, Hudson Library, the Highlands Performing Arts Center, Highlands School, and Summit Charter School are among others that have all been recipients of her generosity. And James Tate’s observation about her passion for floriculture? It found its logical flowering in her absolute support for the Highlands Botanical Garden and its pavilion and walk. That beautiful emerald treasure, just two blocks from Main Street, is a priceless landmark for both residents and visitors. Mrs. Williams is incredibly modest about the things she’s done throughout the community, so we’re going to have to turn to her friend Judy Michaud to give us a clearer picture, “There is something so special about Angela with her insight and determination for excellence in everything that she touches. This insight along with her selfless spirit recognizes a need and goes headfirst into finding a solution. It takes a particular grace, strength, intelligence, and courage to never take ‘no’ for an answer as she helps our community and the families of Highlands.” Highlanders enjoy these generous gifts today, but future generations will benefit as well and that’s the vision Angela embraces. Her generous spirit and love of Highlands has enriched us all. by Mary Jane McCall

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

Rich Legacy of

Tradition

Ann McKee Austin’s commitment to wise development and prudent preser vation is built upon an abiding passion for Cashiers and its people.

ashiers has a rich history, deeply rooted in Cherokee, Appalachian, and Southern culture. The generations of families, whether summer visitors or lifetime settlers, and their stories are what create the distinct sense of place in this bucolic mountain village. Today, 200 years after the arrival of those first homesteaders, an important community conversation is taking shape. It begins with two questions: “What is important in our history?” and “What parts of our past can we preserve for the future?” Ann McKee Austin has been and continues to be one of the leading voices in this dialogue. Her mission is to share this rich legacy of traditions and resources unique to Cashiers. Ann grew up in Asheville, the oldest of three McKee children. “We came up here in the summer pretty much the minute school got out and went back the day before it started again.” Together they made meaningful memories in The Nancy Cottage, roaming all around High Hampton. She spent most of her time riding horses and at the stables. In 1998, Ann made Cashiers her permanent home. She notes, “Cashiers has and will always be my spiritual home.” For this reason, Ann and her family have been devoted to protecting the transcendent village character of Cashiers.

She focuses her efforts on projects related to historic preservation, land conservation, and town planning. Her work helps tell the story of Cashiers dynamic heritage, celebrating the events, people, places, and ideas that have shaped the community. Her early mentor was Mimi Ryan Cecil, who with her husband William Cecil oversaw the management and preservation of the Biltmore House, his grandfather George Vanderbilt’s estate in Asheville. Ironically, Ann’s very first project in Cashiers was a mere half mile from the cottage where she spent summers with her family, The Zachary-Tolbert House on Highway 107 South. Despite those many childhood summers, Ann says, “I never once stepped on the Tolbert property…although my brothers made secret forays there. Hidden behind a towering hedge, it was a forbidding place.” When Robert Red “Bubba” Tolbert approached her family to help find a new owner, she saw the rare example of Greek Revival architecture in the area as an

opportunity to save a significant landmark. “The house was in disrepair but completely intact, frozen in time” she says, “It was like stepping back into life in Cashiers in 1850.” This historic restoration project started the Cashiers Historical Society, which educates and advocates the cultural heritage of our area. This month will be the 25th year of the annual Cashiers Designer Showhouse that raises the critical funds to advance the organization’s mission. Ann has undertaken other similar community-oriented projects. Her work with the Village Conservancy (now Vision Cashiers) has helped to incubate other nonprofits, including the Village Green, Cashiers’ central park and gathering space, along with other land conservation activities. She helped with the early development of the Cashiers Village Ramble, a trail system to promote walkability throughout town. Her vision to safeguard beautiful natural properties enabled the purchase of the McKinney Meadow at Highway 107 South and Cashiers School Road which is now protected by the HighlandsCashiers Land Trust. Ann recognizes both the changing landscape with development in Cashiers as well as the importance of property stewardship. She’s a partner at McKee Properties, which has been a leader in local preservation since the 1980s. Ann also spearheaded the High Hampton History Center, in the old caddie house, to preserve High Hampton’s rich legacy as the legendary resort moved forward under new ownership. In addition to the work of Vision Cashiers, she invests in the pursuits of other groups such as Develop Cashiers Responsibly along with the Cashiers Area Chamber and Cashiers Planning Council that demonstrate the strength of grassroots enterprises. “What I find truly exciting is the opportunity to identify and grow young new leaders for Cashiers.” Ann’s determination and dedication is to ensure that the legacy of Cashiers is true to the integrity of yesterday, valuable to the enjoyment of today, and that future generations who visit or live here will be enriched by the deep historical, cultural, and natural roots that foster its sense of place in the rural mountains of Western North Carolina. by Ann Self

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When Less

is More

The wise application of f illers can enhance appearance and supply a boost of conf idence.

Michael Schoonover

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find that looking back in history helps us in our understanding of most topics.

If we look back to the late 19th century we can see when fillers were first experimented with. During that time, it was quite common to use fat, typically from the arms, and use that to fill facial defects. Over the years various forms of fillers have been used ranging from purified animal collagen to silicone. Most of these practices have been dropped. Many of us can remember the notorious silicone granulomas in the 40s and 50s that would form –resulting in the ban of silicone based fillers until the early 1990s.

reach the patient’s desired results with the most natural appearing outcome. The most common areas to use fillers are for lip and cheek augmentation along with fillers at the Nasolabial folds and Marionette Lines, but fillers can be used in a variety of ways. Results are immediate and last for 18-24 months. Come in to your local Highlands Dermatology clinic for a cosmetic consultation and see if you could benefit from this well-established cosmetic procedure. by Michael Schoonover, Highlands Dermatology

The mainstay of fillers now are the next generation hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers. HA occurs naturally throughout the human body, most commonly found in the skin and joints. One of many of HA’s functions is aiding our skin to hold on to water which is pivotal when it comes to full and youthful looking skin. Since HA is so abundant in the human body the occurrence of adverse reactions is much lower than bovine-based collagen and silicone fillers which is why it is the mainstay filler and the only filler used by Highlands Dermatology. As is the case for most cosmetic procedures, less is more. At Highlands Dermatology we take a stepwise approach to

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Tarah’s

Beauty Bar

A visit to Tarah’s Beauty Bar, 287 Laurel Knob Road in Cashiers, is a mar velously indulgent experience.

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Tarah Grillo and McKenzie Woods

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arah Grillo, co-owner of Tarah’s Beauty Bar, has enjoyed a 14-year career as a licensed esthetician specializing in helping her customers look and feel their best through personalized skin care. She always dreamed of owning her own spa concentrating on holistic and natural skin treatments. Luckily for her, her mother Betsy Nicholson shared the same dream and in 2019 this dynamic duo made that dream a reality and Tarah’s Beauty Bar, a wonderfully relaxing day spa, became a reality. Tarah’s Beauty Bar offers a wide range of spa treatments including facials, massages, waxing (including body waxing), peels, microdermabrasion, dry body brushing, and more. Her focus on natural and holistic treatments led her to choose Eminence Organic Skin Care as her preferred line of products. These organic plantbased products are non-irritating and contain no harsh chemicals. Tarah believes skin care should be a lifestyle and not only an occasional luxury treatment as is so often the case. Toward that end she has structured

her pricing to make that an attainable goal for most so her clients can always feel and look their best. They also offer Hydrafacial treatments. This medical skin care machine uses patented technology to cleanse, extract, and hydrate your skin. During this treatment your skin will be deeply cleansed, exfoliated with hydra-dermabrasion, cleared with a patented vortex technology, and infused with antioxidants and hyaluronic acid. Treat yourself to a state-of-the-art Hydrafacial and leave with glowing skin. Gentlemen, you’re always welcome at Tarah’s Beauty Bar too and they offer customized facials just for you. Tarah’s is open Monday through Saturday by appointment so give them a call now at (828)507-6275 to arrange your appointment. For a more detailed look at all their services, visit tbbspa.com. by Mary Jane McCall / photo by Susan Renfro

Scan to learn more.

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The Rabbit

Hole

You may feel a bit like Alice entering Wonderland as you journey down the one-and-only enchanting Rabbit Hole here in Highlands. As you enter, you’ll step out of our bustling town into secluded grounds and historical residences with unique gables, unusual staircases, relaxing porches, and gardens that will sooth all worries away. Just flip your imagination switch to “Wow,” sit back, and partake in the history of two remarkable homes in Highlands. They were draped in shadows of fire and flood, but they have been transformed by a family’s determination and love.

f you don’t know about The Rabbit Hole, nestled in Highlands’ heart, here is an introduction to its provenance: Selleck-Hill-McCall-Kennard/Neal-Allen/Neal. The original home was built in 1879 on 10 acres of land by Eben Selleck, a Highlands pioneer.

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It was a two-story, patterned, wooden-shingled frame house with a salt box cable roof. In 1905 the property was sold to Mrs. Charles Albert Hill. In the early 1930s it was sold to Lilia McCall. Lilia’s brother and sister-in-law Elizabeth Kennard would often come and visit from New Orleans to enjoy the cool mountain summers. It was a magical place. All who came felt as if they were transported into another world. In 1963, when Lilia decided she could no longer travel to Highlands, she sold the home and land to Elizabeth Kennard and her daughter Elizabeth Neal. She knew how much they loved the property and enjoyed their time here. The two Elizabeths continued the family tradition and summered up in Highlands with their two children/grandchildren, Lisa Allen and Kennard Neal. Lisa and Kennard were similarly drawn into the fairy tale wonder and named it The Rabbit Hole.

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

The Rabbit Hole continued to entertain and accommodate the family over the years. But, in 2000, tragedy struck. The main house caught fire. Fire departments from several communities managed to contain the fire, protecting trees, the barn and outhouses, and the town. Fortunately, no one was hurt. But the main house was totaled. In spite of the shock and loss, it took only minutes for the family to decide to rebuild instead of accepting a payoff. And so, the refurbishing began. To the best of their ability, the family repaired, replaced, reconstructed, and refurnished the home to its original configuration. While the main house reconstruction was in process, the family, when visiting and repairing, stayed in the barn, part of which was converted to living quarters years prior. Over the next couple of years, the main house was restored to its original state. A few improvements and upgrades were

made, but almost everything, right down to fabrics, treasured samplers, furnishings, rugs, and more were replaced as though the fire had never happened. Today, Lisa and Kennard are the owners and caretakers of The Rabbit Hole, visiting and summering when season allows. The house became Lisa’s with her husband and children, and the barn became Kennard’s with his wife and children. Even though The Rabbit Hole is not open to the public, Lisa and Kennard were generous in offering this story/history/and photo-tour to you via the pages of The Laurel Magazine. by Donna Rhodes / photos by Ryan Karcher Scan to read more about The Rabbit Hole’s history, and to view more photos.

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SE RV IC E

ACCOMMODATIONS

BEAUTY

CABINETRY

CLEANING

CONSTRUCTION

HOME DECOR

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SE RV IC E

HOME MONITORING

PICTURE FRAMING

PRINTING

REAL ESTATE

ROOFING

SNAKE REMOVAL

SERVICE

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BUSI NESS

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BUSI NESS

GIVING BACK Pages 212-217

photo by Susan Renfro

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GI V I NG BAC K

Ingenuity Saves

Battersea Tracy

Battersea Tracy’s burgeoning catalog of ailments is bringing hope and healing to horses around the world.

t was just a year ago that our equine veterinarian, Jennifer Miller-Bailey was here giving annual examinations and floating teeth when she said she thought that Battersea Tracy would most likely have only six months to live. If you’ve been following Tracy through all her surgeries, tenotomy and endless recoveries, you would know that I was neither prepared for that information nor was I willing to believe it.

stage. PVC pipe cut to various lengths, lined with industrial wool, leg wrapped with surgical cotton, and vet wrap, sheepskin bandages when rubs and irritations occurred, was the prototype. I also connected with a man in Florida who makes human and animal prosthetics (we cast her leg for a custom prosthetic) which we rotate between our own invention to cut down on sores created by rubbing.

In November of 2018, Tracy developed a hoof abscess which went rogue. The infection was eating the medial wing of the coffin bone, the heel bulb and wrapping around the front interior hoof wall.

On this day I can report that Tracy continues to “run with her herd” albeit at a trot and on occasion a canter. She gets to be a horse in a band of mares who have been together nearly 20 years! Her heart is happy and so is mine!

Dr. Ric Reddon – world renowned equine surgeon, podiatrist, farrier, teacher and friend -- traveled three times from Versailles, Kentucky, to the farm to perform surgery on Tracy.

This latest invention has given way to the creation of yet another company to manufacture bracing systems for horses faced with similar situations. It doesn’t have to be a life-ordeath choice, there are options. Equine Hoof Innovations LLC will introduce leg braces to the nearly 5,000 veterinarians at the American Association of Equine Practitioners annual meeting in November, in San Antonio, Texas in our Easy’s Slipper booth.

A year later she was back running in the herd. After six months she began rolling the fetlock joint and required a tenotomy to relieve the tension. Six months later she took to the pastures with her herd. In August of 2021 her fetlock joint began rolling again and Dr. Jennifer believed that this time, because the joint was “frozen” in place, she would break the bone while moving about the fields with her friends unless I found a way to stabilize it. Problems with all aspects of the hooves and limbs have been my focus with my herd over the last 25 years. That’s how Easy’s Slipper was born and now Tracy was providing a new opportunity. So, a major problem with a horse who’s been my soul companion since she was 18 months old, took center

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The horses of Carpe Diem Farms continue to make a difference in the lives of horses around the globe. Who would have ever thought that an off-the-beaten-path, small non-profit foundation in Highlands, “Exploring the Human Potential Through Equine,” could affect the health and well-being of horses in such significant ways? We appreciate your continued support and generosity for our work. by Sue Blair, Carpe-Diem Farms

GI V I NG BAC K

The History of Peggy

t was 1994. The number one movie was Forrest Gump. Seinfeld was the king of TV. The Wonderbra was invented.

But the best thing of all for Highlands in ‘94 was the birth of the Peggy Crosby Center, our own one-of-a-kind wonder. Philip Crosby of Winter Park, Florida, provided PCC’s funding as a gift for his wife, Peggy, who said she didn’t need another sweater or, for that matter, a Wonderbra. She wanted something that would be a meaningful legacy for their summertime residence, Highlands. Her vision: a home for non-profit groups that served the community. The Crosbys gave a matching grant of $175K with the agreement the building would be named Peggy. That initial grant was matched over and beyond: Duke Endowment, $125K, Reynolds Charitable trust, $125K, Bryan Family Fund, $10K, Lane Charitable Trust, $7.5K, Cannon Foundation, $10K, and the Mrs. Louis Randally House, valued at $180K. And churches, individuals, and other Highlands organizations contributed to the cause. Two years later Peggy’s doors opened to The Literacy Council, the Highlands Cashiers Land Trust, REACH, the Macon County Health Department, Macon Program for Progress, and the Early Head Start. The facility was aging, so by 2010, renovations were overdue. Peggy was providing valuable space for little rent – 40 percent lower than comparable space in Highlands. The Board launched a capital-raising project for interior improvements, things like window repair, light fixtures, insulation, sprinkler heads, etc. The 60-year old hospital got a facelift and transformed into attractive, contemporary office space. In 2013 the building’s exterior and landscaping underwent a

huge transformation. By 2015 the initial PCC improvement phase was complete. Now it was time to upgrade the conference room technology and enhance the comfort, attractiveness, and convenience of the facility for tenants and their clients. Each new board grabbed the baton from the last, continuing Peggy’s vision and improvements. Some say Peggy has gone beyond what the Crosbys hoped for. In helping non-profits, Peggy was helping non-profit clients. Many of those clients passed benefits on to others. Giving grows giving. It’s a community ripple effect that sustains services like: • Counseling and psychotherapy for adults and children • Assistance and services for the international community • Funds for health improvement • Life-long learning for seniors • Protection of land and all things that live upon and in it • Emotional and physical support of service members Financially, Peggy is saving its tenants about $45K a year in rent, money non-profits use in service of their clients. While that helps tenants, it sometimes creates problems with funding and grant requests. The Board works diligently on adapting Peggy’s unique status to the needs of Highlands so that, in the end, all will benefit in the name of humanity and community. So here’s to The Peggy Crosby Community Service Center. Long may she live. Long may she reign. Long may her birth in 1994 be celebrated as one of Highlands’ best and most treasured gifts. by Donna Rhodes

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GI V I NG BAC K

Two Decades-Plus

of Service

Richard Robson

Richard Robson’s long-term membership in the Cashiers Valley Rotar y Club has strengthened his commitment to ser vice.

ichard M. Robson, MAI, SRA, of North Carolina Appraisal Company, has been living in Cashiers since 1995 and has been a Rotarian since 2000, having been invited to join by Jim Zoller of Zoller Hardware. In those 22 years, he has seen changes in the Cashiers Valley Rotary Club’s membership, and growth in the organization’s community support.

He explained, “At the time (2000), most of the year-round business people belonged, about 40 members then. Then membership grew as high as almost 80. But the economic conditions in 2008 caused big changes in Cashiers and we lost some people. Only one member, Vanna Cameron, has been in the club longer than I have.” He added, “The Cashiers Valley Rotary Club has raised and given back to the Cashiers’ community at least $1 million over the last 20-plus years for projects, including at the area schools, scholarships for area students, and monies to the library, hospital, Humane Society, Boys and Girls Club, Big Brothers/

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Big Sisters, Cashiers Literacy Council, and numerous other nonprofit organizations.” Robson, a past president and member of various committees during his time as a Rotarian, noted that main fundraising activities for which he has been involved encompass everything from the 4th of July symphonies in Sapphire to craft shows on the Village Green. “My father never belonged to a club like Rotary, but long after his death my mother shared with me that he always told her that if he had joined a club, it would have been Rotary because ‘they always did what they said they would do,’ according to him. So, I am proud to be a member of the Cashier Valley Rotary Club.” Further, Robson informed that the club is comprised “of a diverse group of both working and retired people, male and female, with all types of backgrounds. Some of our members have traveled abroad for our club so the experiences for our membership is very interesting.” by Deena Bouknight

GI V I NG BAC K

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GI V I NG BAC K

The Captain of

Our Ship

The steadfast courage and indefatigable positivity that Gar y Maddox displayed throughout his career have earned him the presidency of the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society’s Board and the 2022 CHHS Humane Hero of the Year Award.

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GI V I NG BAC K

ome of you may remember George Steinbrenner.

As a longtime owner of the New York Yankees, he was the longest-serving owner in club history and the Yankees won seven World Series championships and 11 American League pennants under his ownership. He was also a successful thoroughbred horse owner and a major player in the shipbuilding industry, especially in Tampa Bay. One day Mr. Steinbrenner wanted to move an especially large ship that was docked at the Port of Tampa. Bad weather was moving in. A young, 20-something voice called out over the radio and said, “No sir, you cannot move your ship.” That young voice was the harbor ship pilot and he was in charge of ensuring safety above all else. Well now. George Steinbrenner, whose nickname was “The Boss,” was not used to anyone telling him “no.” His response over the radio was well…not G-rated. He demanded to see in person the young man who dared to defy him. Long story short, Gary Maddox and George Steinbrenner met that day and they became fast friends until Mr. Steinbrenner’s passing in 2010. I share this story because it’s just one example of Gary’s

leadership, courage, and stewardship. He has been piloting a different ship these past three years through turbulent times and unchartered waters. That ship is the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society Board of Directors. And that captain is our Board President, a 2022 CHHS Humane Hero of the Year Award recipient, and someone I am honored and blessed to call my friend. Gary and his wife Linda celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary this year. They are proud pet parents of CHHS rescue alums Willie and Lucy. All of us at CHHS are grateful and thankful for Gary’s leadership of our board, and his compassion for the animals entrusted to our care. Established in 1987, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit animal welfare organization located at 200 Gable Drive in Sapphire, one-and-a-half miles east of the Cashiers Ingles in between Cedar Creek Club and Lonesome Valley on Highway 64 East. Our no-kill shelter is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. For more information, visit us online at chhumanesociety.org or call (828) 743-5752. by David Stroud, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society photo by Marty Boone

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BUSI NESS

Welcoming the Newest Members of Our Business Community There’s a reason why merchants on the Plateau are sur f ing a blockbuster season.

hen “USA TODAY” recently let us know that Highlands placed no. 5 in its “Best Small Towns for Shopping” contest, we were thrilled. But we weren’t that surprised. Let us explain. It’s no secret that Highlands offers an exceptional shopping experience. It is an ideal place for retail, hospitality, and an array of other types of businesses. Our sidewalks bustle throughout the year, and our town has placed among the top five in the “USA TODAY” 10Best contest each year since 2018. (In fact, we took the top spot in 2019.) A panel of experts and editors regularly nominates Highlands, with the top 10 determined by popular vote. As award winners often say, it is an honor just to be among the nominees, which this year included distinctive destinations Carmel-By-The-Sea, California and Sedona, Arizona. Even without the accolades, we know that Highlands is a great place to live, visit, work, and do business. One indicator that

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tells us our community is doing things the right way is the number of new businesses that have recently set up shop. Below is a list of businesses that have opened their doors in the Highlands area since the beginning of 2022. Help us give them a warm welcome! The Gallery at Highlands: Owner Suzanne Camarata opened The Gallery at Flat Rock in 2015. The Highlands gallery at 468 Carolina Way (inside Cabin Couture) is its satellite space. With “a passion for bridging connections” between artists and collectors, The Gallery at Highlands offers finely curated, contemporary art and crafts in all mediums. For more: galleryflatrock.com. HOP Gallery: Located at 353 Main Street, this new gallery focuses on photography. Owner and artist Tiho Trichkov is a Bulgarian native who has called Highlands home for more than 14 years. The cozy gallery offers fine art prints from around the world

BUSI NESS as well as custom photo shoots. For more: houseofpicsnc.com. All About Bagzzz: This Main St. shop (formerly occupied by Potpourri II) offers “preloved” or “up-cycled” designer, luxury handbags and accessories, with authenticity guaranteed. For more: facebook.com/allaboutbagzzz or (828) 634-6046. Highlands Hatter: Looking for a hat? Highlands Hatter has you covered – literally. From brand-name fedoras, berets, bowlers, and newsboys to floppy sunhats and baseball caps, you’ll find it all at this shop at 221 N. 4th Street. Adding to the mix is a charming staff who make for a fun experience. It is the sister shop of Helen Hat Company in Helen, Georgia. Visit and show your “hattitude!” For more: facebook.com/TheHighlandsHatter or (828) 482-1920. Highlands Hair Studio: This new salon and its passionate stylist can be found at 121 Main Street. For more: facebook/ com/HighlandsHairStudio or (828) 526-1899. Nancy’s Fancys & The Exchange: Formerly located on Main Street, this clothier is now located on Dillard Road. It offers an expansive selection, including upscale ladies’ lingerie and gentleman’s clothing. For more: nancysfancys. net or (828) 526-5029. Primary Restaurant and Bar: Located in the Main Street

space formerly occupied by Tug’s Proper, Primary is an elevated, mountain modern restaurant serving American cuisine for lunch and dinner. It is ideal for smaller parties, and reservations are recommended. Owner Curtis Huggins, who moved to the area from Colorado, is also the proprietor of Prime Highlands, an American steakhouse opening soon on Carolina Way. For more: primaryhnc.com or (828) 526-3555. Unfurl Massage and Bodywork, Inc.: A new addition to Laurelwood Lane and the Mill Creek business complex, Unfurl’s Betty Chrestman offers massage therapy and bodywork treatments as well as select jewelry, art, candles, and gifts. For more: facebook.com/UnfurlMassageNC or (828) 482-2219. We’re excited to welcome most of these new companies as members of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce. The Highlands Chamber offers an array of advocacy, marketing and connection benefits to help businesses and our community thrive. For more information on becoming a Chamber member, contact Colleen Kerrigan at BusinessServices@highlandschamber.org, 828-526-5841 or visit highlandschamber.org/chamber. by Kara Addy Communications Manager, Highlands Chamber of Commerce

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DOWNTOWN CASHIERS 341 Highway 64 West Cashiers, NC 28717 828-743-1999

LAKE GLENVILLE DISCOVERY CENTER 4312 Highway 107 N Glenville, NC 28736 828-743-1999

DOWNTOWN HIGHLANDS 537 Main Street Highlands, NC 28741 828-526-2999

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The premier source for Plateau lifestyle in Western North Carolina, NC Living Magazine explores local luxuries and global cultural trends from a real estate perspective. Every issue features all of Silver Creek Real Estate Group’s exclusive offerings and is printed, mailed, and promoted through our social media channels and subscription lists.

15,500

P R I N T E D B I - M O N T H LY

with around 93% being directly mailed to our subscribers.

OV E R

40 STATES

have NC Living subscribers as their primary place of residence.

310,000 READERS

receive NC Living through print and digital subscriptions each year.

A S I LV E R C R E E K R E A L E S TAT E G R O U P P U B L I C AT I O N

NCLIVING.COM 221 AU G U S T 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

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D R I V E N

B Y

R E S U L T S

Our bespoke marketing pipeline begins with our in-house marketing team that creates a dynamic suite of assets for our exclusive offerings. Assets are then published through our vetted network of local and global markets to increase exposure and engagement with qualified buyers.

C A L L TO DAY TO L E A R N H OW W E C A N P O S I T I O N YO U R P R O P E RT Y F O R TO DAY ’ S M A R K E T.

NCLIVING.COM | CASHIERS/LAKE GLENVILLE: 828-743-1999 | HIGHLANDS: 828-526-2999

C A S H I E R S • H I G H L A N D S • S A P P H I R E • L A K E G L E N V I L L E • L A K E T O X AWAY

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L O C A L LY O W N E D . I N D E P E N D E N T LY O P E R A T E D . CASHIERS / LAKE GLENVILLE: 828-743-1999 | HIGHLANDS: 828-526-2999

JOCHEN LUCKE

DAN ALLEN

PA R K E R A N D E R S O N

J U L I A TAT U M B A N N E R

C H R I S D U F FY

D E B BY H A L L

R I C K J AC K S O N

B A M B I FA M O U S KA I N E

K E V I N KOAC H

E D DY M C D O N A L D

JODI MOORE

CASSIE NEAL

president/broker

broker

224

broker

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broker

KAT I E N I C H O L S O N

LINDA PRIDGEN

CHUCK SELF

M E R RY S O E L L N E R

K E N TA F T

RAY T R I N E

LOTA H OW E L L

N O RA K E L LY

broker

S AVA N A H H O P P E R

broker

assistant

assistant/broker

R I VA S M I T H

C A I T L I N S TA R N E S

A N N E T TA M U L L

IZAAK HOLSAPPLE

assistant/broker

office manager

assistant

creative director

broker

assistant

D E L A N E Y A S B U RY

client experience manager

M A RY W H I T T E N WA R 225 NER marketing director

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226

and Nationally Ranked by Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, RealTrends, and TITAN Propevrty Awards [1]

. is THE premier source to the highlands-cashiers plateau

AU G U S T 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

2022 PERFORMANCE O F S I LV E R C R E E K R E A L E S T A T E G R O U P [2]

$123 M Silver Creek’s total sales volume in 2022

N 1 O

For total sales volume and number of transactions in the HCBOR in 2022

176

Transactions closed by Silver Creek in 2022

NCLIVING.COM CASHIERS: 828-743-1999 HIGHLANDS: 828-526-2999 LAKE GLENVILLE: 828-743-1999 According to 2021 Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® Website Quality Certification Results, 2021 RealTrends Website Rankings, and 2022 TITAN Property Awards.

[1]

This information was provided by HCBOR MLS on 7/11/22.

[2]

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RECREATION

WHAT TO DO DINING

THE ARTS

LIFEST YLES

Have Havethe theHeart Heartofofthe theHighlands HighlandsCashiers CashiersPlateau Plateaudelivered deliveredmonthly monthlytotoyour yourmailbox mailbox 228 thelaurelmagazine.com/subscribe thelaurelmagazine.com/subscribe AU G U S T 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

CREATION

.L ove has arrived

SHOPPING

WELLNESS

a e

L UR L 229

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A private, low-density mountain community, located five minutes from Cashiers, NC on the prestigious 107 South corridor. With five distinct residential offerings, including cottages and estate homesites, Silver Run Reserve features curated and natural amenities for indoor and outdoor fun and wellness. Call for more details.

LIVE WELL. RUN FREE. 828.342.3194

230 AU G U S T 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

LIZ HARRIS, GUILD™ CO-OWNER / BROKER 828.342.3194 (CELL) LIZ@CASHIERS.COM 231 AU G U S T 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

BETH TOWNSEND

LIZ HARRIS

Co-Owner / Broker

ANN MCKEE AUSTIN

Co-Owner / Broker

OUR TEAM — OF —

EXPERIENCED BROKERS WAYNE MONDAY

COLEEN GOTTLOEB

Broker

Broker-In-Charge

SANDY BARROW Broker

LOGAN CROCKER Broker

JOHN BARROW

Broker / Rental Coordinator

KARALINE CANTLER

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Broker

CLAY CANTLER

Broker / Administrator

619 HWY 107 S

MAGGIE ELMER

Broker / Licensed Assistant

CASHIERS, NC 28717

JOANNE BRYSON Broker

JESSICA HOHEISEL

Broker / Licensed Assistant

828.743.3411

LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC MINNIE COLE HOUSE

A Founding Partner McKee Properties is proud to be a Founding Partner of G&G Land, a feature program of Garden & Gun magazine, highlighting properties that are dedicated to an “authentic sense of place and inherent responsibility to the natural world.”

NEARLY 50 YEARS OF LUXURY REAL ESTATE EXPERTISE IN THE CASHIERS-HIGHLANDS AREA

M C K E E P R O P E R T I E S. C O M

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Winfield Farm 127+/- ACRES — Nestled between National Forest and a ridgetop of gorgeous mountain views lies the beautiful Winfield Farm. This multigenerational family farm is located in Scaly Mountain on the southern edge of the Nantahala National Forest just 10 minutes from Highlands, North Carolina. Winfield Farm features long range mountain views, gently rolling pastures, heirloom apple trees and gardens, spring-fed lakes and ponds, mountain streams, multiple homes, barns, and other structures. The main home is perched on a gentle knoll overlooking the farm, while two other homes are within easy walking distance. Another lovely home is tucked in a large meadow bowl that looks up to the surrounding

OFFERED FOR $6,750,000 mountains. Two large barns, workshops, and a historic lodge are also contained within the 127 acres. Fabulous views can be enjoyed from everywhere on the farm/estate and the gentle topography makes the land very usable. A portion of the property fronts Dillard Road, offering great commercial potential on this parcel. Winfield Farm is just two hours from Atlanta and minutes from hiking trails, waterfalls, and all the clubs and amenities the Cashiers-Highlands Plateau has to offer. This is the first time on the market for this beautiful farm that has caught the eye of all who pass by. I look forward to showing it to you! MLS 97357

LIZ HARRIS, GUILD™ 234 AU G U S T 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

828.342.3194

LIZ@CASHIERS.COM

Silver Slip Falls 4 BR / 4.5 BA — This magnificent property with uninterrupted views of Whiteside and Devils Courthouse is close to the crossroads of Cashiers, yet tucked away for privacy. Designed and built by the present owners in 2008, this meticulously designed home features 4 bedrooms and 4 en suite baths with master and second bedroom on the main floor. The attention to detail is unrivaled — every door in the house was handmade, and heart pine floors and old barn wood are used throughout the house. There are 3 wood burning fireplaces, with the massive one in the great room made from Tennessee river rock. The floorplan features a great room with windows on 3 sides, a lovely study with built-in bookcases, and a

SANDY BARROW JOHN BARROW

| |

478.737.9664

828.506.9356

OFFERED FOR $4,250,000 unique central gallery. The large kitchen has beautiful cabinets, Wolf range with double-ovens, a spacious island, and granite countertops. Adjoining the kitchen is a large keeping room with stone fireplace and plenty of room for dining and/or sitting that opens on to a spacious porch with additional dining space. Upstairs are 2 bedrooms, each with en suite baths. The yard is filled with beautiful hosta, oak leaf hydrangea, boxwoods, and other carefully selected plants. Don’t miss the opportunity to see this breathtakingly beautiful home. It is a treasure for sure! MLS 98906

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High Hampton 4 BR / 5 BA — This family home gracefully sits on a 2 acre estate sized lot within steps of the Fazio-reimagined 13th golf hole, and is located in the most sought after area in High Hampton: Wade Road! Al Platt, Architect, nailed the design with two bedrooms on main, nicely separated by the great room, den, dining and kitchen. The primary bedroom suite has a wonderful office/closet addition and the bath has his’n’hers sinks and storage, plus shower and tub. There is a stone wood burning fireplace in the great room and a smaller stucco faced fireplace

OFFERED FOR $3,195,000 in the den. Upstairs, the two bedrooms are generously sized, both have en suite baths. Perfectly placed windows and skylights throughout the house offer excellent natural light. All along the back of the house are covered and uncovered decks, just a few feet above grade, to take in the nearby and distant views of the golf course. The two car carport has easy access to the house through the mudroom. With its end of the road privacy, this property is perfect for folks with children and dogs. Every bit of the lot offers gentle topography, so gardeners will love it, too! MLS 99181

UNDER CONTRACT

619 HWY 107 S 236 AU G U S T 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

CASHIERS, NC 28717

MCKEEPROPERTIES.COM

828.743.3411

Snowbird

OFFERED FOR $1,000,000

2 BR / 2 BA — Snowbird is the most unique community in our area, focusing on these most desired prime attributes: large private estate parcels (all over 20 acres), beautiful long range views, frolicking streams and noisy waterfalls and a patchwork of rolling open fields connected by common hiking and horseback riding trails. This home is oriented on a knoll facing southeast and was built to offer passive solar advantage.

At over 4000’ elevation, there is an additional, higher site on this tract that could accommodate a guest house or private pavilion. Inside the layout is simple—primary bedroom and bath on the main level with kitchen, living/ den and view porch. Pretty wood floors. There is a covered breezeway leading to the large two car garage. Downstairs is another bedroom, bath, laundry and a large common area, recently used as a craft/hobby room. MLS 99164

TYPICAL SCENES AT SNOWBIRD

Beth Townsend

CHECK OUT MY PAINTINGS! Scan to see Laurel Magazine’s Feature Artist spread, May 2022

› Real estate professional 28+ years, with a Cashiers connection since 1970 › Experienced in area-wide construction projects, including being a team member of Wade Hampton Golf Club Development › Consistently ranked as a Top Performer on the Plateau

BethTownsendBroker.com

WHAT MY CLIENTS ARE SAYING... “We have purchased and sold homes with Beth Townsend at McKee Properties. Her local knowledge and expertise were extremely helpful. She is thorough, detail oriented, very creative and flexible. Above all else she is a wonderful person who I would highly recommend to any of my friends.” – JENNY B.

BETH LIZ TOWNSEND HARRIS, GUILD™ C C828.421.6193 828.342.3194

LIZ@CASHIERS.COM | | BETH@CASHIERS.COM

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Wade Hampton Golf Club 4 BR / 4 BA — This lovely home in Wade Hampton Golf Club is conveniently located, just an easy walk from the Clubhouse and driving range. Offering generous spaces throughout including large bright vaulted great room with fireplace and wet bar area, kitchen and dining just off the great room, and a spacious primary suite and guest suite beyond the kitchen. The upper level offers another guest suite and a charming loft

OFFERED FOR $1,695,000

sitting room overlooking the great room. The lower level of this home includes a large family room, kitchenette, fitness room, and a fourth guest suite. Upper and lower covered decks provide ample outdoor entertaining areas. Pretty mountain views, gentle topography, and low maintenance perennial landscaping frame this home. MLS 98823

LIZ HARRIS, GUILD™ 238 AU G U S T 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

828.342.3194

LIZ@CASHIERS.COM

Highlands Cove 3 BR / 3 BA — Located inside the Old Edwards Club, this very private lower level unit has 3 bedrooms and 3 baths. Sitting at the end of a cul-de-sac and accessed by only a few steps to the entrance, the unit is tastefully and beautifully furnished, and all furnishings stay, right down to the towels, bed sheets and bed coverings! There is a deck on the back

SANDY BARROW JOHN BARROW

| |

478.737.9664

828.506.9356

OFFERED FOR $1,295,000 and on the side just off the dining area is a screened porch with its own fireplace and gas logs to be used on chilly mornings and evenings. The bathrooms have been handsomely updated, the HVAC installed in 2021, and the crawl space has been encapsulated. MLS 99121

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Liz Harris CONSISTENTLY A TOP-RANKED BROKER ON THE PLATEAU “Liz Harris is on top of the Cashiers real estate market. She is proactive and creative and someone you want working for you. We’ve worked with her on several transactions and enjoy her personally as well as professionally.” – RENEE H.

LizHarrisBroker.com

Little Ellijay Farm 4 BR / 4 BA — This beautiful 63-acre farm in the Cashiers/Glenville area beside the Snowbird Community is full of charm. It features gorgeous views, rolling land, a main house, a guest house, an art studio, a large

OFFERED FOR $1,590,000 functioning barn, gardens, a chicken coop, fruit trees, fenced pasture land, fresh water ponds, springs and creeks throughout! Contact Liz today for a tour of this beautiful mountain farm. MLS 97011

JUST REDUCED

LIZ HARRIS, GUILD™ 240 AU G U S T 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

828.342.3194

LIZ@CASHIERS.COM

A DV E R T I S E R’ S I N D E X

4118 Kitchen and Bar A Jones Company A-List Antiques ACP Home Interiors Aery Chiropractic Allaben Fine Art Allen Tate/ Pat Allen Realty Group Allison Diane Amy Feil Phillips Fine Art Ann Lea Fine Art Gallery Annawear Annell Metsker, Artist Appalachian Construction Appalachian Golf Cars Around Back at Rocky’s Place Atelier Maison Bags on Main Balistreri Realty The Bascom Barbara Jamison Paintings Bazaar Barn Bear Tracks Travel Center Bella Cotn Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices - Mary S. Abranyi Beth Poindexter Trunk Show Betsy Paul Art Benefit Betsy Paul Properties Bird Barn & Garden Black Rock Design Build The Blue Elephant Blue Ridge Bedding Blue Ridge Music Bombshell Hair Boutique The Book Nook Bounds Cave’s Rug Gallery The Brier Patch Brookings Fly Shop Bungalow Boutique C Orrico Calders Coffee Cafe Caliber Fine Properties Carolina Rustic Furniture Cashiers Chamber of Commerce Cashiers Candy Shoppe Cashiers Farmers Market Cashiers Kitchen Company Cashiers Valley Community Chorus Cashiers Valley Real Estate Center for Plastic Surgery Robert T. Buchanan, MD Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals Charles Johnson Fine Art Photography Chocolate Heaven/Cake Bar Christine’s Home Decor The Christmas Tree CK Swan Classic Lighting & Design, Inc. Colonel Mustard’s Specialty Foods

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Country Club Properties Creative Concepts Crossroads Custard & Coldbrew The Dancing Bear at the High Dive Dauntless Printing The Designer’s Market Diane McPhail, Artist Dillard Jones The Dry Sink Dutchmans Earthshine Lodge Edgewood Antiques & Fine Furnishings Edward Jones Investments Elena’s Women’s Golf and Activewear Elevation High Fashion for Women Ellie’s Groove The Exchange Fire + Water Fire Mountain Inn & Cabins The Fix Bar & Lounge Four Seasons Landscape Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar Fressers Courtyard Cafe Fusion Yoga & Wellness Futral Construction Dr. Edward D. Frederickson MD FACP Garden Stone Art & Antiques Gracewear Boutique Grand Olde Station The Greystone Inn Green Mountain Builders Head Innovations Headwaters Outfitters The High Dive Highland Hiker Highlands Aerial Park Highlands-Cashiers Players Highlands Chamber of Commerce Highlands Dermatology Highlands Emergency Council Highlands Fine Art & Estate Jewelry Wine Shop Highlands Lawn & Garden Highlands Outpost Highlands Mountaintop Rotary Art & Craft Show Highlands Pharmacy Highlands Porchfest Highlands Rock Yard Highlands Smokehouse Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty - Jody Lovell Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty - Andrea Gabbard Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty - Tommy Jenkins Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty - Sheryl Wilson Highlands Transportation Company Historic Toxaway Market Hummingbird Lounge

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highlandssir.com

P 207 P 56 P 164 P 67

historictoxawaymarket.com oldedwardsinn.com

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A DV E R T I S E R’ S I N D E X

Imperial Security & Wiring J Gabriel Jannie Bean Custom Jewelry Jeanie Edwards Fine Art Jennings Builders Supply Josephine’s Emporium John Cleaveland Realty Joyce Smith Mortgages Jug Hill Gallery Killer Bees The Kitchen CarryAway and Catering Lake Toxaway Company Lakeside Restaurant Landmark Realty Group Landmark Realty Group - Pam Nellis Laura Moser Art Lehotsky & Sons Lenz Gifts & Luxury Linens Leslie Jeffery, Artist The Look Boutique Lupoli Construction Main Street Gifts Main Street Nursery Marlene & Co Martha Anne’s Martin Lispcomb Performing Arts Center McCulley’s McKee Properties McKee Properties - John & Sandy Barrow McKee Properties - Liz Harris McKee Properties - Logan Crocker McKee Properties - Beth Townsend Michelle Page Webster, Artist Mike’s Snake Removal Mirror Lake Antiques Morales Painting Mountain Cafe Mountain Construction Engineering Mountain Mermaid Mountain Spring Spas and Pools Mountain Theatre Company Mountainworks Custom Home Design, Ltd. Nancy’s Fancys Narcissus Nearly New The Neumann Law Office, PLLC Nora & Co Oak Steakhouse Old Edwards Inn & Spa On the Verandah The Orchard Restaurant, Event Barn & Cottages Panthertown Cafe Pat Calderone Peggy Marra Peak Experience Petit Properties Real Esate 242

IS-W.co janniebeandesigns.com jedwardsfineart.com jbwnc.com jcrealty.com joycesmithmortgages michaelcoxart.com killerbeeshoney.com thekitchenofhighlands.com laketoxaway.com landmarkrg.com landmarkrg.com lauramoserart.com lehotskyandsons.com lesliejeffery.art lupoliconstruction.com

highlandsperformingarts.com mckeeproperties.com mckeeproperties.com mckeeproperties.com mckeeproperties.com mckeeproperties.com pagetheartist.com mikessnakeremoval.com mirrorlakeantiques.com historictoxawaymarket.com mountain-ce.com mountainhotspring.com mountaintheatre.com mtnworks.com nearlynewnc.com oaksteakhousehighlands.com oldedwardsinn.com ontheverandah.com theorchardcashiers.com panthertowncafe.com calderonegallery.com peggymarra.com peakexp.com petipropertieswnc.com

AU G U S T 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

P 207 P 42 P 200 P 103 P 78 P 49, 207 P 75 P 27 P 126 P 160 P 114 P 155 P 114 P 168 P 207 P5 P 27, 206 P 64 P 98 P 21 P 40 P 56 P 61 P 74 P 43 P 105 P3 P 193, 230-240 P 235, 239 P 234, 238, 240 P 193 P 236, 237 P 96 P 207 P 29 P 45 P 164 P 186 P 38 P 17 P 53 P 73 P 42 P 143 P 191 P 39 P 19 P 110 P 67, 206 P 117 P 127 P 163 P 98 P 96 P 63 P 157

Preferred Properties of Highlands - Ann Scott Reach of Macon County Rebecka’s Home Cleaning Service Rent In Highlands-CCP Ristorante Paoletti Roberto DeJong Robin’s Nest Roman’s Roofing LLC Root 64 Fresh Market Rosewood Market Rusticks Ryan Karcher Photography Sapphire Valley Real Estate Sashay Around Savannah Street Antiques Scaly Mountain Crafters Shakespeare and Company Shiraz Silver Creek Real Estate Group Sky Valley Country Club Skyline Lodge Slanted Window Tasting Room Smitten Southern Highlands Reserve Southern Way The Spa Boutique at Old Edwards Inn Spoiled Rotten Stork’s Wrap, Pack & Ship The Summer House by Reeves Susie deVille, Entrepreneur/Author Sweetwater Builders, Inc Sydney H Sams, Artist Tampa Bay Trust Company Tarah’s Beauty Bar Terry Warren Fine Art Tiger Drive In TJ Bailey’s for Men Town and Country General Store Twilight 5K The Ugly Dog Pub - Highlands Vic’s for Men Victoria’s Closet Victoria’s Sportswear The Village Green Village Hound The Vineyard at 37 High Holly Vivianne Metzger Antiques Warth Construction The Watershed Shoppe Whistlin’ Dixie Whiteside Art Gallery WHLC FM 104.5 Wilbanks Smile Center - Dr. Joe Wilbanks Wish and Shoes Wit’s End Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro Woofgang Bakery & Grooming Zach Claxton Art Zoller Hardware The Zookeeper Bistro

ppoh.com reachofmaconcounty.org

P 207 P 51 P 206 rentinhighlands.com P 135 paolettis.com P 115 P 123 robinsnest-cashiers.com P 147 romansroofingnc.com P 207 P 156 rosewoodgourmet.com P 122 rusticks.com P 11, 202 P 219 sapphirevalleyrealestate.com P 177 P 19 P 74 scalymtncrafters.com P 216 shakespeareandcompanyhighlands.com P 175, 187 shirazruggalleries.com P 37 ncliving.com P 220-227 skyvalleycountryclub.com P 51 skyline-lodge.com P 110 P 218 P 107 southernhighlandsreserve.org P 157 P 62 oldedwardsinn.com spoiledrotten2.com summerhousehighlands.com sweetwatersbuilders.com sydneysamsfineartcom tampabaytrustcompany.com terrywarren.com tigerdrivein.com tjbmens.com tandcgeneralstore.com theuglydogpub.com victoriasclosetnc.com victoriasclosetnc.com victoriasclosetnc.com villagegreencashiersnc.com thevineyardathighholly.com vmantiques.com warthconstruction.com whlc.com wilbankssmilecenter.com wishandshoes.com wolfgangs.net zachclaxtonart.com zollerhardware.com thezookeeperbistro.com

P P 63 P 15 P 108 P 79 P 146 P 164 P 183 P 206 P 99 P 218 P 109 P 131 P 138 P 133 P 46 P 46 P 46 P 170 P 189 P 47 P 203 P 244 P 25 P 156 P 104 P 17 P 178 P 12 P 33 P5 P 217 P 97 P 207, 210 P 126

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244 AU G U S T 202 2 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

August 2022: The Laurel Magazine

Articles inside

Plateau Picks

Crossroads Custard & Coldbrew

It’s a Big Dinner

Two Decades-Plus of Service