August 2023: The Laurel Magazine

L aURe L

Vulnerably Defiant Beauty

Cover Artist, Colleen Kastner

JANET CUMMINGS Managing Partner janet@thelaurelmagazine.com

MARJORIE CHRISTIANSEN Managing Partner marjorie@thelaurelmagazine.com

Publisher’s Note

Welcome to August, the crescendo of this busiest of Busy Seasons.

We’ve met the stresses and setbacks of the summer with a bit of advice that we received from our friend Matt Canter at Brookings – “Step away and find your moment of peace in the green and the streams and the silence that’s all around us on the Plateau.”

Of course, you could go in the opposite direction and plunge into the crowds showing up for live music at venues large and small. Dance, sing along, and Let It Go!

Whatever you choose, take this magazine along and allow us to guide you to your Good Place.

Thank You!

Janet and Marjorie

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

Contributing Writers: 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 © 2023 by The Mountain Laurel, LLC. All rights reserved. Laurel Magazine is

without

permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publishers and editors are not responsible for

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 14-63

photo by Greg Clarkson

Orchard Sessions

A pair of Orchard performances bring a sweet sound to August evenings. For updates and to book online visit OldEdwardsHospitality.com/OrchardSessions.

Music carried on summer breezes in an orchard with a view are what you’ll find in August at the Orchard Session at The Farm at Old Edwards. A most compelling attraction for a community that lives much of its life outdoors, the alfresco Orchard Sessions concerts are proof that birds are not the only music amid nature.

Accompanying the lively choruses of chirps emanating between the boughs of the orchard trees, are two performances this month.

Thursday, August 3: Highbeams

Their name comes from the feeling of driving down the road with the high beams on, feeling free and alive. It’s an apt description of the music of this trio, two brothers and a best friend, who’s sound has been described as, “feel-good folk rock” with “emotive, high-energy performances and rich three-

part harmonies.” Known for their energetic live shows and their close connection with their fans, they often invite fans to sing along and join them on stage.

Thursday, August 24: Nicole Witt

Perhaps it’s because of her voice that’s been described as part Adele, part Shelby Lynn, and part Trisha Yearwood, or her multi-instrument talent, whether behind a piano or upfront with a guitar or a fiddle or maybe it’s the songs she writes for herself and major artists including Kenny Rogers, George Strait and Rodney Atkins that have earned her an identity as a, “renaissance woman.” Her live performances led by a gorgeous voice and anchored in charm, led one writer to exclaim that, “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 released five full-length albums, and in July she released her first ever EP

Highbeams

called “Clear,” an all-country American album she wrote because as she told me on the phone “everything became so clear to me in the past three or four years, that I needed to record it. The word ‘clear’ struck me with so much clarity that it became the album title.”

In Highlands, she said she plans to play the songs from “Clear” and added, “I am also going to bring a mix of covers and songs written for other artists the audience will recognize and hopefully resonate with. Maybe I will include an Eagles tune.”

Shows begin each evening at 6:00 P.M. and finish at 8:00 P.M. Admission is $25 for Old Edwards Inn and Half-Mile Farm Hotel Guests & Members, and general admission is $40 and includes light bites and a cash bar. For updates and to book online visit OldEdwardsHospitality.com/ OrchardSessions.

by Marlene Osteen

NicoleWitt

Just Dazzlin’

The Dazzling Dahlia Festival, set for September 9 throughout downtown Highlands, recounts the history of the Plateau through the kaleidoscopic permutations of this most astonishing blossom.

This September 9, Highlands Historical Society will proudly present the 13th annual Dazzling Dahlia Festival. Highlands will be draped in florals, serenaded by the sweet stories of times gone by, awed by “A Sense of Place,” and treated to some mighty fine music! Dahlias of every color and shape, as well as equally fabulous native plants will be placed around town as talented folks present their floral interpretations of “Seasons of Highlands.”

The Bascom, Highlands Historical Village, and KelseyHutchinson Founders Park will be the hubs of the festival, but Main Street and all around town will be a feast for the eyes as you experience florals in ways you didn’t expect. Look for interactive vignettes, historical vignettes, edible vignettes, and creations that will delight all your senses.

Highlands Historical Society realized during the Pandemic that our non-native dahlias are more than just pretty blooms to be judged for their individual perfection. The stunning dahlia can be combined with native plants to tell stories and

create fascinating vignettes that share Highlands’s history. The Highlands Historical Society wants to highlight the parts of Highlands that are oftentimes overlooked; the history of this place, the incredible generosity of its people, and that the best things in life are indeed free!

The festival kicks off Thursday, September 7, at the Bascom with a kickoff party from 5:00-6:30 P.M., where Megan Gaillour, the winner of the Dahlia Festival poster competition will be recognized. Her creative poster has been the face of the festival this year and a few limited-edition posters will be available for purchase.

On Saturday, September 9, The Bascom will host the Garden Club of America-judged Amateur Dahlia Single Bloom Competition. Growers will enter their blooms from 8:00 to 10:00 A.M. at The Bascom patio. Judging will be done, ribbons placed, and then the single bloom show will open to the public from 1:00 to 5:00 P.M.

That same day all around town including Main Street, Kelsey-

Hutchinson Founders Park and the Historical Village will be full of floral delights. Plan the whole day and night because the historical village will have a full day of events. Meanwhile, in KHFP our nonprofits will be featured, those little-recognized entities that support everything on the Plateau.

The finale of this exciting day will be when Steel Toe Stiletto, a fantastic 10-piece dance band takes the stage at 6:00 P.M. at the park. A group of very generous people, the Dahliabolicals, sponsored Steel Toe Stiletto so the Dahlia Festival would have an epic band to wrap up Dazzling Dahlia.

Highlands Historical Society, Visit Highlands NC, and The Bascom are proud to present all Dazzling Dahlia Festival events at no charge. For more info and to enter the vignette competition go to highlandshistory.com.

by Mary Jane McCall

Highlands Soundtrack

The sounds of Friday Night Live and Saturdays on Pine are Highlands’ official Summer Soundtrack. Everyone is invited to these free concerts.

If you’ve been around Highlands long enough, you’re still carrying memories of the halcyon nights at Helen’s Barn, when everyone was invited to take in the bluegrass sounds or witness local cloggers or join in a joyful square dance.

For the 21st century, the beat goes on with the Outdoor Concert Series, held downtown, May through October.

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 2023 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.

Here’s what’s in store for August:

The Well Drinkers take the stage on Friday, August 4. They’re a progressive, original bluegrass and Americana band based out of Western North Carolina. The group doesn’t shy away from combining jazz, Cajun, classical and reggae into their traditional repertoire.

On Saturday, August 5, Soulution brings its irresistible

sound to Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. Individually, its members have earned Grammy nominations, toured across the country and even internationally with Grammy winners, and have been trusted by some of Pop music’s biggest names to put on amazing shows in front of massive crowds. From yesterday’s Motown to today’s Pop is the best way to describe their style and song selection that keeps everyone from young to old happy and dancing.

On Friday, August 11, it’s local favorites Nitrograss at Town Square. The percussive banjo of two-time national champion Charles Wood lays the foundation for the band’s unique style. Merging traditional Scruggs-style banjo with rhythmic motifs reminiscent of ZZ Top and the Allman Brothers, Charles’ playing is also melodic in its sensibility with pure, driving syncopation. Next is the lock-chop of Caleb Hanks’ mandolin, from which occasional melodic passages erupt with fire and sensitivity. Micah Hanks offers an intuitive array of acoustic guitar parts that are both anticipatory and improvisational, with the two brothers layering their strong vocal harmonies over the mix in a sonic separation that could make a Kentucky moon rise on demand. Finally, the backbeat of Dakota “Smoky” Waddell’s bass lines pushes the music of this Southeastern powerhouse

into a foray beyond the frontiers most acoustic musicians will dare travel.

Join Full Circle at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on Saturday, August 12. Full Circle was formed in 2003 and is about those songs you used to love with great vocals, tight harmonies, and jammin’ solos.

On Friday, August 18, join Silly Ridge at Town Square. Silly Ridge is a Highlands-based troupe that offers an eclectic blend of americana, bluegrass, folk music, and brings fun, energy, and toe-tapping music to any event throughout the Highlands – Cashiers Plateau. The band showcases the talents of Knight Martorell (banjo, harmonica, harmony vocals), Dave Mueller (mandolin and lead vocals) and David Crisp (guitar and lead vocals).

On Friday, August 25, you’re invited to dance with abandon with Southern Highland Band. The heart of Southern Highland Band are life-long friends and business partners Tom Nixon and Dean English, who are the proprietors of Blue Ridge Music in Clayton, Georgia. As accomplished musicians, they play a large variety of music spanning across almost any genre, with an emphasis on their Bluegrass roots.

There’s plenty more to rock your Friday and Saturday nights this season, so keep an eye on the local calendar, visit highlandschamber.org, or call (828) 526-5841.

Helping Those In Need

Highlands Emergency Council will stage its annual fundraiser on August 19 at the Highlands Community Building on Poplar Street. Attendees will be treated to beer, wine, and hors d’oeuvres. There’ll also be live music provided by local favorite Zorki and a silent auction. Revelers can check out an array of raffle items and, for the first time at an HEC fundraiser, tour the adjoining HEC facility.

It’s all for the purpose of raising funds to assist at-risk individuals and families securing basic needs.

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.

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.

Those wishing to use the resources of 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 Luke Osteen

Everyone’s invited to attend Highlands Emergency Council’s Annual Fundraiser, set for 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. Saturday, August 19, at the Highlands Community Building.

Cashiers Steady Beat

Groovin’ on the Green is just that – an irresistible invitation to cut loose on the emerald Cashiers Village Green. A pair of August concerts continue the torrid pace of this busiest Busy Season.

You can find more information at villagegreencashiersnc.com/concerts.

That steady beat emanating from The Village Green is proof that Groovin’ on the Green maintains its irresistible pull – a bangin’ summer-long jam that has visitors and locals swinging all season long to performances by some of the area’s most entertaining bands.

“We here at The Village Green love being able to offer free and fun family programming, that’s accessible to everyone in our community, and that can be enjoyed without having to drive down the mountain,” says Ashlie Mitchell, the Village Green’s executive director.

Every Grooving Concert is held rain or shine and there is no admission charge. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, beverages, snacks, and your boogie shoes – though there are vendors there as well.

Groovin’ is also offering its “Rent a Tent” – 10 x 10 tent rentals at $100 per tent per event.

Here is a rundown of featured bands and what to look forward to this month: (All events start at 6:30 P.M.)

Commodore Fox takes the stage on August 11 and they’re ready to party.

Their audience is invited to join in the fun as they reel through their playlist – beloved hits from the 1970s and 80s through to today’s house party favorites. They’re followed by Emporium Band on August 25. Emporium is a six-piece band based in Asheville, North Carolina playing the finest in dance music - classic rock, disco, funk, beach and current hits.

by Luke Osteen

CommodoreFox

NancySilberkleit

Illustration Centric

Nancy Silberkleit, of Archie Comics Publications, will be the featured guest at Hudson Library in Highlands on August 25 at the 1:00 P.M. Books & Bites.

“Nancy’s story of becoming co-CEO, and the power of comics and graphic novels to build literacy and create a love of reading, is fascinating,” said Hudson’s librarian, Carlyn Morenus.

“This will be my first time visiting your community,” Silberkleit told The Laurel during a June interview. “Recently a friend of mine was sharing his visit to Highlands, so I naturally went online to look at your library, with that I reached out to Carlyn and suggested a talk on Everything Archie Comics. It seems whenever I mention Archie Comics, an immediate smile and interest occurs, I was delighted she welcomed my talk.”

Silberkleit is the wife of the late Michael Silberkleit, who was the son of Archie Comics founder Louis Silberkleit, who with his partner John L. Goldwater

founded Archie Comics in 1942. She stepped into her role as co-CEO of the company in 2009 with a vision that the comic book as a graphic novel is a valuable tool for developing literacy among first-time readers and instilling a love of reading for everyone.

“My background is in education,” she said. “I was an art teacher before becoming co-CEO at Archie. Engaging children into learning is key and I believe the arts is a powerful way to draw learners into any academic subject! Graphic literacy is not like regular books, and I encourage people to open one and get whisked into the sequential panels. I will be making my point on that as I talk about the iconic Archie Comics and how Archie’s bling is building a love of reading.”

Further, Silberkleit feels strongly that the graphic comic book format helps to enrich and develop the creative mind.

“Reading Archie Comics for 30 minutes is what I like to call ‘Archie Therapy,’”

noted Silberkleit. “The light-hearted, humorous stories have appealed to readers for generations, thanks to the talented writers and artists who make Archie a never-ending story.”

Both Hudson Library and Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library have plenty of graphic novels for all ages, pointed out Cashiers’ library’s Branch Librarian Serenity Richards. “Starting with beginner readers and going all the way through adults … the collections contain both fiction and non-fiction titles. The Wings of Fire graphic novels are all the rage for the 10-12 set. From Calvin and Hobbes to Wonder Woman, we have graphic novels to suit every taste.”

For more information about the August 25 event, visit fontanalib.org/highlands.

by Deena Bouknight

Archie and his pals get their moment in the spotlight when Hudson Library hosts Nancy Silberkleit, the co-CEO at Archie Comics Publications, August 25.

Igniting Potential

It’s murder most foul for a mission most wonderful – Big Brothers Big Sisters unveils its Roaring 20s Party at 5:30 P.M. Thursday, September 7, at Skyline Lodge and Oak Steakhouse. For more information, email cashiers@bbbswnc.org.

Since Big Brothers Big Sisters is staging its Roaring 20s Party at Skyline Lodge and Oak Steakhouse, revelers can expect a multicourse culinary event, cocktails, a live band performing music from the time period, a 1928 Packard for photo opportunities, and a silent auction with items and packages.

There’ll be a short program about the life-changing mission of the Big Brothers Big Sisters that lies at the heart of the celebration.

Oh, and one other thing – there’ll be a murder in the midst of the merriment, and a dining room full of suspects and amateur detectives. Everyone at the soiree will participate in solving the crime or diverting attention from their own “colorful” past.

“It’s not every day we have an opportunity to dress up in flapper dresses and pin striped suits all for a great cause,” says BBBS Program Coordinator

Danielle Hernandez. “Bring your finest era specific attire and be ready to have a wonderful time. We are incredibly grateful to Skyline Lodge and the Oak Steakhouse for their partnership in providing an experience like this to further ignite the Power and Potential in youth!”

… dress up in flapper dresses and pin striped suits all for a great cause.

Tickets are on sale now, but you’ll still have plenty of time to select your appropriate attire and brush up on your detective skills. And, if you’re so inclined, get your alibi straight.

by Luke Osteen

Interlude Concerts

The Interlude Concerts at First Presbyterian Church offer beautiful moments of peace and revelation.

AstralisChamberEnsemble

The Interlude Concert Series, which is sponsored by Highlands First Presbyterian Church, continues with a great lineup this month. Concerts are on Wednesdays at 2:00 P.M. at First Presbyterian Church. Featured on August 2 will be Andrew York and Stephen Mattingly, classical guitarists.

Grammy Award-winner Andrew York is one of today’s best-loved composers for classical guitar as well as a performer of international stature. His compositions blend the styles of ancient eras with modern musical directions, creating music that is all at once vital, multileveled, and accessible.

Stephen Mattingly enjoys a vibrant career as Associate Professor of Music at the University of Louisville, where he directs classical guitar studies. He is a member of the Kentucky Arts Council Performing Arts Directory and has performed at Carnegie Hall, in Poland, Panama, and Germany.

On Wednesday, August 16, featured will be the Astralis Chamber Ensemble. Performing around the globe, this highly acclaimed group is an innovative and dynamic ensemble. Through creative programming and presentation on the works performed, Astralis aims to make classical music more accessible and for audiences to make a lasting connection to the music. Members of the group are Angela Massey, Flutist; Kris Marshall, Trumpeter; and Rachel O’Brien, Harpist. 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

First Presbyterian Church of Highlands

StephenMattingly

Historically Cashiers

The elegant 2023 Cashiers Designer Showhouse opens its doors on August 25. For more information about the Showhouse and the Cashiers Historical Society, visit cashiershistoricalsociety.org or call (828) 743-7710.

The Cashiers Historical Society

– a nonprofit that honors and protects the historical past of Cashiers, North Carolina – announces that tickets are now available for the 2023 Cashiers Designer Showhouse. Taking place August 25 –September 2, this year’s theme is “Historically Cashiers” and features a classic mountain retreat in The Club at High Hampton, designed and built by Jim Robinson of Design South Builders. Renowned designers from Cashiers and across the Southeast will showcase their individual talents and design styles.

The Showhouse is open daily from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. and transportation is provided from The Village Green’s Lewis Hall, which also features a variety of highly-regarded vendors offering unique lifestyle items from apparel and antiques to home décor.

Shuttles will run approximately every 25 minutes from 10:00 A.M. to 3:50 P.M., with the last patron pick-up from the Showhouse at 4:30 PM.

Tickets are $40 per person and

available at cashiershistoricalsociety. org/showhouse and at the following ticket locations: Cashiers Chamber of Commerce, Rusticks, and Acorns Boutique in Highlands.

In addition to daily Showhouse tours, there is an impressive line-up of free and ticketed special events, including: An Opening Night Party at Halsted House at High Hampton on Thursday, August 24; Historically Cashiers Designer Panel: Design for Gracious Mountain Living, 2:00 P.M. Friday, August 25, at The Chattooga Club; A Landscape Seminar with Famed Architect Mary Palmer Dargan,1:00 P.M. Saturday, August 26, at The Pavilion at The Village Green; Tending Nature’s Bar with Carlton Chamblin of Farm2Cocktail, 1:30 to 3:00 P.M. Tuesday, August 29, at The Pavilion at The Village Green; Showhouse by Twilight from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Tuesday, August 29; Moss Mountain Farm Comes to Cashiers (with garden designer P. Allen Smith at The Flag House, the home of Linda and Mark Quick), 6:30 P.M. Wednesday, August 30; P. Allen Smith Luncheon and Presentation

11:00 A.M. Thursday, August 31, at Canyon Kitchen in Lonesome Valley; High Tea at The Inn at High Hampton, 3:00 P.M. Friday, September 1; and Art Demonstration with Artist Sue Fazio, 11:00 A.M. Saturday, September 2, at The Pavilion at The Village Green. For information about specific events and tickets, visit cashiershistoricalsociety.org/cds-tickets.

2023 designers include Heather McKeown of Land and Sky Designs, Lisa Wester Interiors, Stacie Platt of Rusticks, Abbi Williams of Red Door Design Studio, Melanie Couch and Nancy Dyleski of Spruce Interiors, Lynn Monday, Douglas Hilton of DWH Interiors, Nellie Jane Ossi with Mrs. Howard, Holly Watson of Acorns Boutique & Old Edwards Inn, Platt Home, Eric Ross Interiors, Maggie Griffin, Janice Dietz, and Lauren Robbins.

Hang with the Legends

Thanks to a generous troupe of Nashville songwriters and musicians, Blue Ridge School is enriched through Songwriters Round, Saturday, August 19,

Seventeen years ago, Nashville’s hall-of-fame songwriter Rivers Rutherford, gave Blue Ridge School a monumental boost.

He offered Margaret McRae, his motherin-law (a Blue Ridge School educator and later, a school board member), a sure-fire fund-raising idea for supplemental support for BRS. He’d bring a handful of his songwriting buddies from Nashville down for an evening of good ol’ countrywestern jubilation, conversation, and the secrets of song-creation.

It’s approaching two decades of annual visits since then, and the gang just keeps making the Rounds. In 2022, the halls of the Boys and Girls Club and upwards of 500 ticketed attendees had a night with CMA legends they’ll never forget. In fact, the event has become so popular, guests in attendance get the first grabs for the following year’s Songwriter’s Round.

RiversRutherford

For those newly-introduced to the Round and its creator, here’s a brief on Rivers’ inauguration into the Big Time. The Highwaymen (Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson) recorded his first cut when he was 21. That launched a dozen number one hits, several Grammys, CMA and ACM nominations, and over 20 ASCAP awards. Add to that resume Country Song of the Year and Songwriter of the Year, and you’ve got a string of jewels that keeps on growing, gem after gem.

Locally, Susan Waller has seen the Songwriter’s Roundup Foundation flourish since the fundraiser’s establishment in 2002 when she and three others started the BRS Education Foundation. She’s served as the Round’s president eight out of the first 11 years. Carl Hyde served the past 10 years and now Susan is interim. She chaired most of the years of its existence. The first Songwriter’s

Round was in 2006.

Grants, financial support, and Roundup proceeds supplement the educational needs of students and educators. The monies also cover professional development, classroom materials, active learning panels, and even gift cards for teachers.

That’s not all – a nurse and a social worker were brought onboard, along with a music artist-in-residence.

In addition, the “Give 5, Read 5” summer reading program was initiated along with an after-school math tutoring program, the Muddy Sneakers Outdoor Learning Program, and print and audio resources galore for the media centers. It’s a treasure trove from Nashville heaven and all of it is thanks to Rutherford and his powerhouse of pals who are as devoted as he to do their part in changing the world through music and education.

Help yourself to an extraordinary evening while encouraging the young people at Blue Ridge School to excel in an environment enriched and funded by successful, generous role models.

A few tables remain (FYI, they’ve sold out every year). It’s your chance to hang with the legends in a benefit for the Blue Ridge School Education Foundation as they present Rivers Rutherford and Friends, Saturday, August 19, at the Keller Pavilion Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau, 558 Frank Allen Road, Cashiers.

To confirm a table reservation (10 people/$2,200) email Susan Waller at songwriterstix@gmail.com. Your best bet is to email before payment so Susan can lock in your reservation. Then she’ll give you payment instructions. You’ll send to: BRS Education Foundation, P.O. Box 803, Cashiers, North Carolina, 28717.

Adventures and Art

From the battlefield to the mindset of Georgia O’Keefe and even below the Antarctic ice, the Center for Life Enrichment is offering transport to a world of fascinating possibilities.

If summer temperatures have you feeling the heat, don’t sweat it!

The Highlands-Cashiers Center for Life Enrichment has you covered with the “coolest” programs the Plateau has to offer. Arctic adventure and wildlife, the inspiring art of Georgia O’Keeffe, and stimulating discussions about the framework of war are just a taste of all that August has in store.

“From Polar Bears to Puffins,” Monday, August 14, 2:00 to 4:00 P.M.; “Diving Below Antarctic Ice,” Tuesday, August 15, 10:00 A.M. to Noon; $30 members/$40 non-members, Presenter: James B. McClintock.

Join Dr. James McClintock as he introduces you to some of the Arctic’s most famous and fascinating residents in “From Polar Bears to Puffins.” This lecture will explore the impact of the rapidly changing environment on key species in the Arctic ecosystem. Catch

Dr. McClintock again the following day for “Diving Below Antarctic Ice.” Feast your eyes upon stunning photographs of the spectacular world under the sea in Antarctica, while learning about the history of scientific diving. Dr. McClintock, Endowed University Professor of Polar and Marine Biology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, has been on 15 Antarctic expeditions.

“Art History Lecture and Take-n-Make: The Work of Georgia O’Keeffe,” Monday, August 21, 1:00 to 4:00 P.M.; $70 members/$80 non-members, Instructor: Mary Cavaioli.

Embark on a creative journey with instructor and artist Mary Cavaioli. Draw inspiration from Georgia O’Keeffe’s art style and process to create your own, one-of-a-kind piece using watercolor, pastel, colored pencils, and a variety of other materials. Learn what made O’Keeffe’s floral and desert landscape

paintings so unique. Mary Cavaioli is an award-winning teacher and art instructor, with over 40 years of experience as an arts educator.

“What Is a Just War?” Friday, August 25, 2:00 to 4:00 P.M.; $30 members/$40 non-members, Presenter: Peter Lindsay.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has been widely condemned as unjust. How does said invasion, or any military intervention, violate standard ethical considerations about war? Join Dr. Peter Lindsay, Professor of Political Science and Philosophy at Georgia State University, for a talk on the widely accepted framework of the Just War Theory and discuss some of the current philosophical disagreements surrounding that framework.

by Audra Bullard, Center for Life Enrichment

Running forChildren

The Literacy and Learning Center is the clear winner of the Twilight 5K Road Race and Walk – August 19 through Highlands.

Although the Twilight 5K Road Race and Walk is an event attracting all ages for a day of activity and fun, its more serious side involves raising money for a worthy cause. Presently, the August 19 run event is focused on providing funds for The Literacy and Learning Center.

“The mission of The Literacy and 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,” according to Executive Director Bonnie Potts, who expressed: “The students at The Literacy and Learning Center are referred by the teachers at Highlands School, and because of the generosity of events like this, we are able to provide these programs for free.”

“Proceeds will help with the new Pre-K

for The Literacy and Learning Center, which will accommodate approximately 25 children,” said Twilight 5K coordinator Derek Taylor, owner of Highlands Decorating Center. “There is currently a 60-70 child waiting list for Pre-K in Highlands. This will only address part of the Pre-K problem in our community.”

Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Highlands, the Twilight 5K “helps with awareness, provides a healthy event for our community, and brings visitors to town,” pointed out Taylor. “We have been able to raise over $200,000 over the years for Highlands’ children’s education efforts.” Donations are encouraged during the event, but monies to support The Literacy and Learning Center come primarily from Twilight 5K runners’ fees and sponsorships. Besides the new Pre-K program, The Literacy and Learning Center offers a variety of programs, including summer camps, after-school enrichment, Homework Helpers,

Reading Bootcamp, and more.

The Twilight 5K race this year begins at 6:00 P.M. at Kelsey-Hutchinson

Founders Park. Registration and check-in for Twilight 5K will begin at 4:00 P.M. on Saturday, August 19, with early packet pick up the night before the race from 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. at Highlands Recreation Park. Parking will be available around the Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park, Highlands Recreation Park, Highlands Ballfield, and Highlands Post Office.

Evening music begins at 7:30 P.M. The race is kid-friendly, with glow toys presented to children who attend. Plus, kids under 5 years of age can participate in the 5K for free and ages 5 to 9 for $10. To sign up, visit: runsignup.com/Race/ NC/Highlands/HighlandsTwilight5K. Contact Taylor at (828) 200-9226 for questions or to sponsor the event.

by Deena Bouknight

A Shared Love Of Music

With even more acts and an expansive list of venues, the third incarnation of Highlands Porchfest, set for September 17 throughout downtown, promises to be simply irresistible.

LamontLanders

With autumn rapidly approaching, CLE’s Highlands Porchfest Committee is gearing up for a rocking good time on Sunday, September 17.

Now in their third year as the Plateau’s most accessible, free-to-attend music festival, Porchfest aspires to highlight local and regional talent, support area businesses, and encourage a diverse and inclusive community culture through a shared love of music.

One new and notable performance included in this year’s musical lineup is soul and funk artist Lamont Landers. An Alabama native, Landers became an overnight YouTube sensation, and went viral following his performances on the popular reality tv contest, America’s Got Talent. He has since performed twice on Steve Harvey’s Showtime at the Apollo. Third-year Porchfest veterans include Highlands’ local legend Zorki, who’s

known for his spectacular classical covers, as well as American Idol finalist and R&B powerhouse Jerius Duncan. Teen musical prodigy and New Orleans Jazz Pianist Jack Adams will blow the minds of concert-goers with his talent, and Asheville singer-songwriter Lindsay McCargar will captivate attendees with her voice and ukulele. With over 39 musicians from every genre on this year’s roster, Porchfest promises to have a tune or two that any pair of ears would fancy.

Highlands Porchfest is also excited to announce multiple new music venues for this year’s festival. Fern of Highlands, a chic new boutique on Spring Street, will entice visitors to sit (or shop!) a spell, with performances on their gorgeously green wrap-around porch. Mountain Life Properties, just off of Maple Street, guarantees to also be a lively stop on one’s festival ramble. For attendees hoping to complete a

Tour de Porchfest around town, Art Highlands Gallery will be hosting musicians and also invites attendees to take advantage of their large parking area to begin their melodious meander. More confirmed repeat venues this year include Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, Satulah Brewing Company, Midpoint Restaurant and Bar, The Ugly Dog Public House, The High Dive, Town Square, The Bascom, Highlands Wine Shoppe, Highlands Smokehouse, and First Presbyterian Church.

Highlands Porchfest Music Festival will rock the plateau on Sunday, September 17, from 1:00 to 6:00 P.M. The festival is free to attend. If you are interested in sponsoring, volunteering, or simply learning more about Porchfest, please visit highlandsporchfest.com or call (828) 526-8811.

by Audra Bullard, Center for Life Enrichment

Concerts On The Slopes

Somehow, beach music is a perfect fit for the gentle hills of Sapphire Valley –you’re invited to unwind to the sounds of The Embers on August 8.

TheEmbers

It’s time once again – to round up the family and friends and head to the slopes – to the Concerts on the Slopes that is at Sapphire Valley. There you’ll find people up and down the slopes sitting on chairs and blankets, the rolling lawns packed hill to hill with listeners. On August 8, they’ll be on their feet, dancing and moving and shaking to the sounds of the South Carolina Rhythm and Blues Hall of Famers, The Embers.

One of the world’s most popular beach music bands, The Embers have released over 50 albums and sold 10 million records since their start in Raleigh in 1958. Incorporating the sounds of classic rock, blues and Motown, the band’s distinctive style has earned them recognition as a true American treasure, helping to define the sound of beach music. They have appeared in movies and on television on The Ed Sullivan Show and American Bandstand.

Considered one of the pioneers of beach music, they have had a major influence on the genre, and have been credited with helping to popularize beach music throughout the United States.

Over the years the lineup has changed, and they have experimented with new sounds. But they continue to capture the true essence of summertime and embody the carefree spirit of beach culture. Theirs is the sound of the beach – a mix of soulful vocal, horn-driven melodies, catchy rhythms, and upbeat tempos. Well known for their energetic live shows, they continue to tour, keeping the spirit of beach music alive, and thrilling audiences everywhere.

Performances are open to the public. Tickets, which can be purchased at the Sapphire Valley Community Center, are $22 in advance, and $27 at the gate. Attendees are encouraged to bring picnics, chairs, and blankets. Concerts are held rain or shine, and though

there’s nothing like the threat of rain to endanger an outdoor music concert, showers never seem to dampen the audience’s pleasure.

This month’s concert is the third in the seasonal series of four open-air performances, that are held on Tuesday evenings from June to September on the back patio of the Sapphire Valley Community Center. The 2023 season concludes on September 3 with a performance by TheCat5 Band. Now in its 22nd year, the series began on the ski mountain with a small group of residents and visitors and has grown ever since. Today it is one of the most sought-after music events on the Plateau.

For more information, visit SapphireValleyResorts.com.

by Marlene Osteen

to learn more.

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Our Local Markets

Whether you’re in the area for a weekend, a week, a season, or a year, you should make visits to our local farmers’ markets a regular event.

Locally Grown on the Green farm stand and local market is held every Wednesday from 2:00 until 5:00 P.M. at The Village Green Commons in Cashiers. The Highlands Marketplace is held every Saturday morning at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park from 8:00 A.M. until 12:30 P.M. We recommend visiting them both if time allows.

Whether you visit Highlands Marketplace on a breezy, sunny Saturday morning or Locally Grown on the Green on a sunny afternoon, there’s something uplifting and jubilant about a farmer’s market. It’s that sense of being alive and surrounded by the best our area has to offer, not to mention that it’s a proven mood elevator to see all those smiling faces, happy kids, and prancing dogs (on leashes, of course) strolling about and taking time to enjoy the moment.

Each of these fresh markets provides

access to in-season fresh produce, locally produced meat, fresh dairy items and eggs, fresh fruits and vegetables, jams, jellies, honey, pickles, freshly baked breads and baked goods, granolas, homemade spreads and dips, and so much more.

When you pair the love of the growers with your own dash of love when preparing these foods, you’ll agree that it makes the meal a little more special.

In addition to fresh foods, you’ll find local artisans and craftsmen selling their creations from fabrics and fashion, to jewelry and art. You’re never quite sure what new treasure will await you.

You’ll enjoy an opportunity to talk to the people who grow and produce the food, learning how it’s grown, where it’s grown, and why it tastes so delicious. These hard-working vendors work tirelessly to bring us the very best our region has to offer and when you speak with them, you’ll hear that it’s a labor of love.

Don’t miss fresh flowers and arrangements for your home and plants and flowers for your gardens. Just imagine Mother Nature’s vivid landscape of colors and you’ll find them right next door at your neighborhood farmer’s market.

Shop locally and shop weekly. Fresh food and an exceptional shopping experience await you.

by Mary Jane McCall

… fresh markets provides access to in-season fresh produce, locally produced meat, fresh dairy items…

THE BARROW TEAM

Deep Knowledge. Unmatched Experience. Sandy Barrow and John Barrow are Brokers with McKee Properties, a luxury real estate firm in the area for nearly half a century. Sandy and her son, John, partner to bring “two for the price of one” to the clients they serve, assuring their dual focus to the business of selling or buying properties. Sandy is active in the Cashiers and Highlands communities and currently serves as an Elder at the First Presbyterian Church. She joined the company in 2012. John holds a PhD from Vanderbilt University and joined McKee Properties in 2016. He is also the company’s Rental Coordinator and has been involved in several leadership roles in the area including Cashiers Historical Society, Rotary Club, and Cashiers Community Council. In addition, John is a member of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing. Learn more by visiting SandyBarrowBroker.com and JohnBarrowBroker.com.

Conservation Series

The Zahner Lecture Series wraps up a revealing summer season with presentations on the Cherokee and their relationship to the nighttime sky and the pristine wild places within South Carolina’s Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area.

The Highlands Biological Foundation’s 2023 Zahner Conservation Lecture Series will conclude this month with a pair of programs, held at Highlands Nature Center on Thursdays at 6:00 P.M., August 3 and 10. The lectures are free and open to the public, providing an excellent opportunity for individuals to expand their knowledge and engage in important conversations about conservation.

First up, Dr. Jane M. Eastman and Dr. Brett Riggs will offer Archaeoastronomy in Southwestern North Carolina.

Sponsored by Suzanne and Don Duggan, Julie Farrow, Florence and Tom Holmes, Ruthie and Franko Oliver, Adele and Nick Scielzo, and Margaret Waters, this is an in-depth examination of the Cherokee and their understanding of the canopy of heaven. In ancient Cherokee perspective, the matters of this world, the Above World and the Beneath World intertwine, and Cherokee

peoples constructed ritual landscapes to engage the beings and forces of these realms. Recent investigations in the Little Tennessee River Valley have revealed one such landscape that marks astronomical phenomena and bespeaks sophisticated systems for measuring calendrical time and the cycles central to Cherokee life. These patterns indicate complex observational sciences that guided functions of indigenous societies long before European contact.

For the final lecture, set for August 10, Interpretive Ranger/Naturalist Tim Lee, will guide his audience through South Carolina’s Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area. Sponsored by Martha and Michael Dupuis, Monte and Palmer Gaillard, and Melanie and Tom Mauldin it’s the sort of in-depth exploration that has won the Zahner Lecture Series a national audience.

Located in an area along the Blue Ridge Escarpment, the Mountain Bridge

Wilderness Area provides a habitat for a diversity of biological communities adapted for life along the Blue Ridge Escarpment. With high average rainfall, diverse topography, and miles of streams and rivers many species found there are rare within the state and some are found in few other places in the world.

Each lecture will be held at the Highlands Nature Center, located at 930 Horse Cove Road. Admission to the lectures is free, making them accessible to all members of the community. Small receptions will follow, and no registration is required.

Whether you’re a seasoned environmentalist or simply curious about the world around you, these lectures offer a valuable opportunity to expand your knowledge and contribute to the conservation dialogue.

by Luke Osteen

Back to The 70’s

Cashiers Live brings a new dimension to the Plateau Concert Experience – on August 19, you’re invited to That 70’s Show by headliners RCA Tribute Band. For tickets or more information, visit cashierslive.com.

TheRCATributeBand

It’s an uncanny time warp when Cashiers Live brings That 70’s Show by The RCA Tribute Band to the Village Green’s Commons Lawn at 7:00 P.M. Saturday, August 19.

From Linda Ronstadt to Jackson Browne, Fleetwood Mac to CCR and more, this diverse rock show is a love letter to the music of the 1970’s and the stories behind some of the era’s most iconic songs.

Rattlesnake Cobra Awesome (RCA) is a one-stop show for classic rock n soul music from across all eras, especially the Golden Decade of the 70s. Known for their highly energetic shows, the band specializes in a good time for all while focusing on the quality craftsmanship of recreating classic songs respectfully. Their shows revolve around the stories behind the songs and the songwriters behind them.

The Cashiers Live Series marks the

flowering of a Plateau-wide movement to ensure that live music has a place on the social calendar. Last month it brought RCA to Cashiers for the first time for their tribute to The Beatles and their final album, “Let It Be.”

July also featured the appearance of Greggie & The Jets, a national touring Elton John tribute band. Their performances recreated the music, the energy, and the dazzling feeling of being at a classic-era Elton John concert.

RCA’s August 19 show is an all-ages event. Gates will open at 6:00 P.M. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and coolers. Food and beverages will not be sold.

by Luke Osteen

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Dancing it Forward

For Danie Beck, the joy of Dance is meant to be shared with Cashiers and beyond.

DanieBeck(farright)teaching atCashiersSchoolofArts

For close to half a century, Danie Beck has been a career dance instructor. But as an octogenarian, she desires to volunteer her time and talents to helping all ages learn and enjoy various types of dance. And, if a fundraiser happens to be part of an event, even better.

“When I was driving to my home at Lake Glenville in 2010 to move permanently from Miami, I decided it was my time to give back. I didn’t know many people in the area because I had only visited the area sporadically. So right away I got involved as a volunteer for Relay for Life, Fishes and Loaves, Cashiers Cares, Mountain Youth Charities Barn Dance, and Cashiers School of the Arts.”

For the latter organization, which is less than a year old, Beck assists with arts education classes for all ages, but she is also the dance instructor for the

every-Monday, from 7:00 to 8:30 P.M., Dancing on the Green at the Village Green Commons in Cashiers.

me based on the word ‘dance.’ I owned a large studio in Miami for 40-plus years and had around 600 students. I was hired to choreograph the Orange Bowl parade and half time show for seven years. So now that I have a chance to teach ballroom or line dancing, or whatever else I feel like throwing in, and people are having a great time – well, it’s very rewarding.

The event, which began in May and runs through September 25, is an opportunity for singles and couples to learn dance in an affordable, no-pressure environment. Beck said she is having a blast sharing her skills.

“I’m a generational dance teacher,” she explained. “My mom was a dance teacher and had her own dance studio, and now my daughter and granddaughter teach as well. My mother even named

“The whole idea of Dancing on the Greens is to dance, mix and mingle, and make some new friends. I love people coming together and enjoying dance instruction. And, it’s still teaching for me, so I’m still active and that’s what has kept me feeling healthy and young.”

Admission is $5 per person, or anyone can purchase a season pass for $45/ person or $80/couple. To register for class, or for more info call Danie at (305) 215-6838.

by Deena Bouknight

My mom was a dance teacher and had her own dance studio, and now my daughter and granddaughter teach as well.

Cashier Antique Show, 9 AM-5 PM, Village Green.

Llama Hike Experience, 11 AM, Earthshine Lodge.

Rock of Ages, 2 PM, Mountain Theatre Company, Highlands PAC.

HCCMF, “Final Gala Live Concert” 5 PM, Highlands PAC. Live Music, 6 PM, Oak Steakhouse. Music Bingo, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

AUGUST

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Animal Feeding, 2:30 PM, Highlands Nature Center. HCCMF, Musical Fireworks, 5-7 PM, Highlands PAC. Community Table, 6 PM, Highlands Community Building.

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Interlude Concert, 2 PM, First Presbyterian Church.

Adult Finger Painting Classes, 2:30-5 PM, Whiteside Art Gallery

The Curated Table, 6-9 PM, Flat Mountain Farm.

Locally Grown on the Green, 2-5 PM, Village Green. Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub. Rock of Ages, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company, PAC.

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

The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM.

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:15 PM, Lewis Hall.

Zahner Lecture Series, 6 PM, Highlands Nature Center. Orchard Sessions, Highbeams, 6-8 PM, The Farm at Old Edwards. Rock of Ages, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company, PAC. Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

Cashier Antique Show, 9 AM-5 PM, Village Green.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

Trunk Show, Village Hound. The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM.

Jude Frances Jewelry Trunk Show, 10 AM-5 PM, Acorns. Books & Bites, Katherine Reay, 4 PM. Hudson Library.

Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird.

Friday Night Live, The Well Drinkers, 6-8:30 PM, Town Square.

Rock of Ages, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company, PAC.

Live Music, 9 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Cashier Antique Show, 9 AM-5 PM, Village Green. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Eltonobi Trunk Show, Narcissus. Trunk Show, Village Hound. Jude Frances Jewelry Trunk Show, 10 AM-5 PM, Acorns. Rock of Ages, 2 PM, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company, PAC. Pop Up Pipers, 4:30 PM, Bagpipes around Town. Saturdays on Pine Concert, 6 PM, Kelsey Hutchinson Park. Concert, 6 PM, Town and Country. Live Music, 9 PM, High Dive.

Cashier Antique Show, 9 AM-5 PM, Village Green. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Eltonobi Trunk Show, Narcissus. Trunk Show, Village Hound. Jude Frances Jewelry Trunk Show, 10 AM-5 PM, Acorns. Rock of Ages, 2 PM, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company, PAC. Pop Up Pipers, 4:30 PM, Bagpipes around Town. Saturdays on Pine Concert, 6 PM, Kelsey Hutchinson Park. Concert, 6 PM, Town and Country. Live Music, 9 PM, High Dive.

Llama Hike Experience, 1:30 PM, Earthshine Lodge.

Elizabeth Locke Jewelry Trunk Show, 10-5 PM, Acorns.

Spotlight with Mountain Theatre Company, 5 PM, Wildcat Cliffs Country Club. Live Music , 6-9 PM, Oak Steakhouse. Music Bingo, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Dancing On The Green with Cashiers School of the Arts, 7 PM, Village Green.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Concert on the Slopes, The Embers, 7-9 PM, Sapphire Valley Resort.

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Interlude Concert, 2 PM, First Presbyterian Church. Locally Grown on the Green, 2-5 PM, Village Green. Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub. Rock of Ages, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company, Highlands PAC.

Member Recognition Event and Artist Reception, 5 PM, The Bascom. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:15 PM, Lewis Hall. Bill Jameson Workshop, 11 AM4 PM, Ann Lea Fine Art Gallery.

Elizabeth Locke Jewelry Trunk Show, 10-5 PM, Acorns. Zahner Lecture Series, 6 PM, Highlands Nature Center. Rock of Ages, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company, Highlands PAC. Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Kinross Cashmere Trunk Show, 10 AM, Wit’s End.

Elizabeth Locke Jewelry Trunk Show, 10-5 PM, Acorns. Bill Jameson Workshop, 11 AM4 PM, Ann Lea Fine Art Gallery. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird. Friday Night Live, Nitrograss, 6-8:30 PM, Town Square.

Groovin’ on the Green, 6:30 PM, Village Green. Rock of Ages, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company, PAC.

Live Music, 9 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Dancing On The Green with Cashiers School of the Arts, 7 PM, Village Green.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM.

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Locally Grown on the Green, 2-5 PM, Village Green. Interlude Concert, 2 PM, First Presbyterian Church. Rock of Ages, 2 PM, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company, Highlands PAC. Adult Finger Painting Classes, 2:30-5 PM, Whiteside Art Gallery. Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.

Lauren Betty “Movements in Nature” Reception, 4-6 PM, Ann Lea Fine Art Gallery. Rock of Ages, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company, Highlands PAC. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:15 PM, Lewis Hall. Community Barn Dance, 5:30 PM, The Bascom. Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

Llama Hike Experience, 11 AM and 1:30 PM, Earthshine Lodge. Live Music, 6 PM, Oak Steakhouse. Music Bingo, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

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

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Dancing On The Green with Cashiers School of the Arts, 7 PM, Village Green.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM. Under The Stars, On The Rocks with Chef Mashama Bailey & Chef Trevor Elliot, 6-8 PM, Oak Steakhouse.

The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM. Estelle & Finn Trunk Show, Wish & Shoes. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Locally Grown on the Green, 2-5 PM, Village Green. Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Estelle & Finn Trunk Show, Wish & Shoes.

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:15 PM, Lewis Hall. Orchard Sessions, Nicole Witt, 6-8 PM, The Farm at Old Edwards.

Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

Southern Bungalow Trunk Show, 10 AM, Acorns.

Vintage Bags Trunk Show Josephine’s Emporium.

Highlands Mountaintop Art and Craft Show, 10 AM-5 PM, Kelsey Hutchinson Park.

Cashiers Designer Showhouse, 10 AM, shuttles from Village Green.

2nd Annual Sunday Supper, 6 PM, The Farm at Old Edwards.

Live Music, 6 PM, Oak Steakhouse.

Music Bingo, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

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

Cashiers Designer Showhouse, 10 AM, shuttles from Village Green.

Vintage Bags Trunk Show, Josephine’s Emporium. The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.

Art League of Highlands-Cashiers meeting, 5 PM, The Bascom. Dancing on the Green, 7 PM, Village Green Commons.

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

Cashiers Designer Showhouse, 10 AM shuttles from Village Green. The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM.

Vintage Bags Trunk Show, Josephine’s Emporium.

Village Nature Series, “Secret Life of Snakes”, 5 PM, Village Green.

Cashiers Designer Showhouse, 10 AM, shuttles from Village Green.

Vintage Bags Trunk Show

30

Josephine’s Emporium. The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Locally Grown on the Green, 2-5PM, Village Green.

Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM, Methodist Church. Cashiers Designer Showhouse, 10 AM, shuttles from Village Green. Cashiers Designer Showhouse

Luncheon and Presentation, 11 AM, Canyon Kitchen.

Vintage Bags Trunk Show, Josephine’s

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Kinross Cashmere Trunk Show, 10 AM, Wit’s End. Elizabeth Locke Jewelry Trunk Show, 10-5 PM, Acorns. Bill Jameson Workshop, 11 AM4 PM, Ann Lea Fine Art Gallery Rock of Ages, 2 PM, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company, PAC. Saturdays on Pine Concert, 6 PM, Kelsey Hutchinson Park. Concert, 6 PM, Town and Country. Live Music, 9 PM, High Dive.

Bazaar Barn 10 AM-2 PM, Church of Good Shepherd. The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM. Butler’s Pop-Up Bar Grill and Chill, 4-10 PM, Oak Steakhouse. Live Music, 5:30-10 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. Dinner and Music, 6 PM, Lake Toxaway Community Center, Friday Night Live, Silly Ridge, 6-8:30 PM, Town Square. Rock of Ages, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company, Highlands PAC. Live Music, 9 PM, High Dive.

Estelle & Finn Trunk Show, Wish & Shoes

Southern Bungalow Trunk Show 10 AM, Acorns.

Vintage Bags Trunk Show

Josephine’s Emporium.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

Kinross Cashmere Trunk Show, 10 AM, Wit’s End. Elizabeth Locke Jewelry Trunk Show, 10-5 PM, Acorns. Bill Jameson Workshop, 11 AM4 PM, Ann Lea Fine Art Gallery Rock of Ages, 2 PM, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company, PAC. Saturdays on Pine Concert, 6 PM, Kelsey Hutchinson Park. Concert, 6 PM, Town and Country. Live Music, 9 PM, High Dive.

Bazaar Barn 10 AM-2 PM, Church of Good Shepherd. Rock of Ages, 2 PM, 7:30 PM, Highlands PAC. Paint ‘n Sip, Grand Olde Station. Songwriters Round, Keller Pavilion Boys and Girls Club Highlands Emergency Council’s Annual Fundraiser, 4-7 PM, Highlands Community Building. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird. 2023 Highlands Twilight 5K, 6 PM, Kelsey Hutchinson Park. Cashiers Live,That 70s Show 7-9 PM, Village Green.

Bazaar Barn 10 AM-2 PM, Church of Good Shepherd. Rock of Ages, 2 PM, 7:30 PM, Highlands PAC. Paint ‘n Sip, Grand Olde Station. Songwriters Round, Keller Pavilion Boys and Girls Club Highlands Emergency Council’s Annual Fundraiser, 4-7 PM, Highlands Community Building. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird. 2023 Highlands Twilight 5K, 6 PM, Kelsey Hutchinson Park. Cashiers Live,That 70s Show 7-9 PM, Village Green.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM. Southern Bungalow Trunk Show 10 AM, Acorns. Estelle & Finn Trunk Show, Wish & Shoes. Highlands Mountaintop Art and Craft Show, 10 AM-5 PM, Kelsey Hutchinson Park. Cashiers Designer Showhouse, 10 AM, shuttles from Village Green. Who Hijacked My Fairy Tale, 7:30 PM, Highlands PAC Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird. Concert, 6 PM, Town and Country. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Cashiers Designer Showhouse, 10 AM, shuttles from Village Green. Books & Bites, Nancy Silberkleit, 1 PM. Hudson Library. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird. Friday Night Live, Southern Highland Band, 6 PM, Town Square. Groovin’ on The Green, 6:30 PM, Village Green.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM. Southern Bungalow Trunk Show 10 AM, Acorns. Estelle & Finn Trunk Show, Wish & Shoes. Highlands Mountaintop Art and Craft Show, 10 AM-5 PM, Kelsey Hutchinson Park. Cashiers Designer Showhouse, 10 AM, shuttles from Village Green. Who Hijacked My Fairy Tale, 7:30 PM, Highlands PAC Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird. Concert, 6 PM, Town and Country. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

“August is ripening grain in the fields... Vivid dahlias fling huge tousled blossoms through gardens and joe-pye-weed dusts the meadow purple.” – Jean Hersey

“August is ripening grain in the fields... Vivid dahlias fling huge tousled blossoms through gardens and joe-pye-weed dusts the meadow purple.” – Jean Hersey

ON THE HORIZON

September Events

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

Groovin ‘ On The Green

6:30 PM, The Village Green Groovin’ will feature a reunion of Hurricane Creek. Hurricane Creek has a powerful rock and blues sound with undertones of new country creating an irresistible and fun roadhouse feel. villagegreencashiersnc.com

October Events

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6-8

Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival

The Village Green

Celebrate the changing of the leaves. This popular and free event welcomes 90 artisans to the park. Visitors will find unique handcrafted wood, pottery, jewelry and much more on display and for purchase throughout the weekend. Food, drink, and live music add to the festive spirit of this event. villagegreencashiersnc.com

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

Dazzling Dahlia Festival

Highlands will be draped in florals, serenaded by the sweet stories of times gone by, awed by “A Sense of Place,” and treated to some mighty fine music! Dahlias of every color and shape, as well as equally fabulous native plants will be placed around town as talented folks present their floral interpretations of “Seasons of Highlands.” highlandshistory.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

Big Brothers Big Sisters Roaring 20s Fundraiser

5:30 PM, Skyline Lodge

Big Brothers Big Sisters is staging its Roaring 20s Party at Skyline Lodge and Oak Steakhouse, and revelers can expect a multicourse culinary event, cocktails, a live band performing music from the time period, a 1928 Packard for photo opportunities, and a silent auction. bbbswnc.org

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, OCTOBER 21-22

Fall Colors Fine Art Show

10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Community Center

This event features the original artwork of talented regional artists. Paintings, photographs, glass, wood, one-of-a-kind jewelry and other original artwork will be on display and for sale. artleaguehighlands-cashiers.com

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14

Highlands Heritage Jamboree

3:30-7:30 PM, Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park Highlands Heritage Jamboree celebrates and honors the town’s rich and storied history with traditional music, dancing and more! visithighlandsnc.com

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

Porchfest

1-6 PM, Highlands Downtown Highlands will transform into a stage for the third annual Porchfest - a one-day, family-friendly musical event that’ll see musical acts performing across the town. An impressive event presented and organized by the Center for Life Enrichment. highlandsporchfest.com

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

Bel Canto

4 PM, Highlands Performing Arts Center

This yearly recital series is an affiliate of The Bascom, and proceeds go to supplement music education at two preschool programs, music education at our public schools, a college scholarship in the performing arts, and to the acquisition of art for special art exhibitions.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31

All Hallows Eve - Halloween in Highlands

6-8 PM, Highlands

Creating a safe, fun experience for ghosts and goblins of all ages, Highlands’ Main Street (from 2nd to 5th Streets) will be open to pedestrians with participating area merchants distributing candy. visithighlandsnc.com

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28

Goblins on the Green

5:30-7:30 PM, The Village Green

A frightfully fun family-friendly Halloween event! Enjoy delicious culinary delights from the food vendors, plus lots of fun and games, and tricks and treats! Be sure to dress up in your most creative costume. villagegreencashiersnc.com

THE 2022 LEADING BROKERAGE ON THE PLATEAU

Achieving the highest transactional dollar volume and the most transactions closed per HighlandsCashiers Board of Realtors MLS.

At our core, we firmly believe that success is best measured by the relationships we cultivate with our clients. That’s precisely why we take immense pride in offering a premier service that caters to the needs of both buyers and sellers alike. With our dedicated team, you can expect nothing less than next-level personal attention, expert guidance, and solutions that are driven by results.

Connect with our team today and experience for yourself the kind of difference a strong, collaborative relationship can make.

View from Whiteside Overlook.

RECREATION & CREATION

Pages 70-85

photo by Greg Clarkson

Issaqueena Falls

The story of Issaqueena Falls confirms its eternally treacherous nature – Use caution!

Twenty-five miles south of Highlands on Route 28 you’ll find Issaqueena Falls in Walhalla’s Stumphouse Park.

The falls can be partially viewed from an easily accessed platform above the falls. A better view can be found at the bottom of the falls. Many people hike the short trail to the bottom but it’s steep and can be dangerous, particularly when the trail is muddy. If you choose to descend to the bottom, sturdy hiking boots and extreme caution are recommended.

Issaqueena falls was named after a Choctaw maiden who had been captured by the Cherokee. She was in love with a settler from a nearby white settlement. When she learned of a Cherokee plan to attack the settlement, she ran to warn the settlers. With the Cherokee in pursuit, she hid on a ledge behind the waterfall. Her pursuers thought she had fallen to her death. Issaqueena successfully reached the settlement and warned the settlers of the imminent attack.

The Stumphouse Tunnel in the same

park is well worth a visit. The tunnel was part of the Blue Ridge Railroad. The project was an attempt to connect Charleston with cities in the Midwest during the 1850s. Construction was halted at the beginning of the Civil War. The first quarter mile of the one-mile tunnel is open to the public. Be sure to bring a flashlight as there is no lighting inside.

Driving Directions:

From North Carolina 28 in Highlands,

drive 25 miles to Stumphouse

Tunnel Road on the left. The park is a short distance from the national forest ranger station. Follow the road to the waterfall parking lot. There’s a $5 parking fee.

Trail Directions:

From the parking lot the trail will be obvious as you will see the boardwalk crossing the creek. The viewing platform is approximately a quarter-mile from the parking lot.

by Ed and Cindy Boos

At a Glance Waterfall Guide

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.

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.

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.

CASHIERS

Silver Run Falls

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

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.

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.

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 miles and bear left on Cold Mountain Road. Stay on the road. When it becomes unpaved, travel about 0.1 miles. Take the road on the right and travel for 0.1 miles 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 miles ahead. Waterfall GPS N35.16330 W-83.00674 Difficulty: The hike isn’t challenging.

Scan for more information on the many waterfalls in the Highlands and Cashiers area.

Enjoy this sampling of area waterfalls, for a deep dive visit thelaurelmagazine.com/recreation.

Bird Feeders and Bears

Boat horns and controlled hours of bird-feeder buffets can ensure that our local black bears remain good neighbors.

Bird feeders help sustain birds and the Web of Life of which they are a part. Having a bird feeder also brings us close to the avian beauty of mountain life. We have encouraged the use of bird feeders on these pages.

But bird feeders sometimes attract other non-avian creatures such as squirrels, racoons, and bears. Squirrels can be foiled via baffles and other devices that are built into the best seed feeders. Most raccoon encounters can be avoided by simply bringing bird feeders in at night: bookends to the day by being hung out first thing in the morning and brought in at nightfall.

Bears are a different matter. Bears and bird feeders don’t mix. We love our bears. Seeing a bear is an exhilarating experience. Coming upon a post-hibernation momma bear with two cubs, big puppies full of play, touches our hearts.

Unfortunately, our bird feeders could place our bears in danger. Bears love bird feeders and can gain sustenance by eating bird seed. A bird feeder full of black oil sunflower seed can offer as many as 18,000 calories. A she-bear nursing cubs has a high daily caloric need. Hummingbird feeders are like soda pop to them, including the sugar high. They like our bird feeders as

well as most of the human diet, notably leftovers such as pizza and scraps on barbeque pits.

Attracting a bear to the human habitat can be a death sentence for the bear. Bear-human interactions often do not end well for bears. Food brings them in, they hang around and guard their source, can be aggressive and destructive, we feel unsafe and become afraid, then they get shot. Bear relocation is fraught and can be deadly for the bear. If we feed them, we must do so only in the sanctity and safety of the deep woods.

So, how do we keep bears away from our feeders and our homes? Don’t doubt that they can see your bird feeders, even through glass, which could result in an attempt to break and enter. This happens in our mountains.

Bringing your bird feeders in at night and out of sight will help. Bears will come, however, to your feeders during the day. Hang them high, using cross wire between trees, say, and pulleys or long poles to bring them in for refilling. A ground feeder post should extend at least 10-feet (3.5 m) off the ground, the four-byfour post anchored deep in dry sack cement. Use a stovepipe or metal covering to produce a slippery surface bears cannot climb.

You can also lace your feeder seed and suet with cayenne pepper. Mammals have keen taste buds, birds don’t.

If a bear comes to your feeders, you must act. If you catch the bear at the feeders, you do well to scare the bear away. You do this by staying a safe distance away and blowing your bear whistle as loudly as you can. If you can produce a loud tongue-on-tooth catcall, whistle it now. Bears hate it. You can get a bear whistle at most outdoor and hiking gear shops. Anything that makes a loud noise. The photo above, taken through glass doors, shows a momma (two cubs below) balancing precariously on a porch rail while preparing to savage my feeders. I whistled her away. I’m going to invest in a pneumatic boat horn.

The idea is to stay safe but give the bear a challenging time. They won’t like your loud sound and might not come back. Bears that are successful in eating some seed will probably be return visitors.

If a bear comes to your feeders, you must change your bird feeding habits. To avoid a recurrence, good for neither bear nor bird feeder, all bird feeders should be removed for at least two weeks. You won’t have the pleasure of your bird feeders for at least two weeks. The birds will be fine; we’re taking care of bears here.

In some states, wildlife officials have said that if bears are active in your locale, do not put out bird feeders unless the bears are hibernating in winter. It might come to that. For now, I am experimenting with reintroducing my feeders after two weeks by putting them out for only 3 hours each day, between 9:00 A.M. and Noon. My hope is that my local birds will learn that there is a brief but reliable feeding time each day while bears are reduced to little opportunity. Happy birding and bear protecting!

by William McReynolds

New Old Trail

When explorer/naturalist

William Bartram traversed Cherokee footpaths and muddy wagon trails in order to collect horticulture specimens and document 1700s Appalachian life, no towns or counties existed.

In the 18th century, Macon and Jackson counties were remote wilderness areas where plenteous Native Indians thrived and where a few adventurous settlers and traders encroached. More than 200 years later, one can read all about the area

through Bartram’s observations in his now classic Bartram’s Travels.

But the 110-mile trail that currently bears his name and meanders from Northern Georgia, near the South Carolina line, to above Nantahala Lake, has for many years been interrupted by highways and byways – as well as the town of Franklin.

But that break is coming to an end, per the Blue Ridge Bartram Trail Conservancy. The group, led by executive director Brent Martin, has been working

to establish trails that skirt around the traffic and buildings and reconnect to the natural trail sections.

Thus, on the backside of the Macon County Fairgrounds, near a decadesold Jobs Corp metal bridge over Cartoogechaye Creek, is a new BRBTCconstructed Bartram Trail sign that marks a section that connects to the Little Tennessee Greenway into Franklin.

Martin explained that the Conservancy has worked for the last two years with

The storied Bartram Trail finds new life thanks to an innovative initiative.

the Town of Franklin, Mainspring Conservation Trust, Friends of the Greenway, and the Macon County Recreation Park to eliminate more than five miles of a 12-mile road walk that required hikers to cross US 441 and US 64.

“Essential to the project’s success was the acquisition of the 13.9-acre ‘Dills tract,’ made possible through Mainspring and the N.C. Land and Water Fund,” said Martin. “This acquisition connects the Greenway to the Macon County Recreation Park and the fairgrounds, providing additional

greenspace for local citizens and visitors, and a safer and more scenic experience

have to maintain and monitor it.”

for those hiking the Bartram Trail. So much has gone into acquiring and establishing this new section, including right of ways. The Dills tract was sold to the Town of Franklin, but we (BRBTC)

In the future, another new/old section of the trail will amble through quieter Franklin neighborhoods to eventually connect with lands bordering the Wallace Branch segment of the Bartram Trail. And then, from Wallace Branch, the trail continues toward its end goal: the top of Cheoah Bald. BRBTC’s goal is for Bartram Trail hikers to enjoy as close to an organic experience as did the trail’s namesake centuries ago.

by Deena Bouknight

This acquisition connects the Greenway to the Macon County Recreation Park…

Get UpGet Out

The Plateau’s myriad outdoor recreational opportunities are leading visitors to explore the area in unprecedented numbers.

GeorgePowell

With the arrival of Europeans to the Southern Appalachians in the 18th century, there was a certain subset of pioneers who would be classified today as “adventurers.”

They were lured by the tales of abundant game roaming the slopes and bold streams teeming with fish. Even as sober a naturalist as André Michaux can’t contain his exhilaration when recording his passage through the mountains.

Of course, for the Cherokee who were already here, that excitement over the adventure possibilities to be found on the Plateau would be categorized as “making a living.”

But even today, that siren call of the Plateau’s natural heritage is strong. People from all over the world are drawn to its wilderness, and every hotel, inn and bed & breakfast has a knowledgeable person on hand to guide guests in the right direction.

Our outfitters are recognized as some of the most well-stocked and knowledgeable in the Southeast, and this magazine’s Recreation and Creation section is one of our most avidly read.

Recognizing this powerful pull, a group of recreational businesses are promoting their businesses jointly as an important element to tourism.

According to Highlands Aerial Park’s George Powell, who is spearheading the initiative, recreation is both free-based and fee-based and both are important contributors to attracting visitors.

“The ‘Free’ includes Hiking Trails, Waterfalls and Long-Range Viewing, Fishing, and Boating. The ‘Fee’ are the commercial activities that provide employment, revenue, charitable donations, and generate active visitors to the towns that surround them.

Powell says keeping the local shop own-

ers, lodging and restaurant operators, as well as residents aware of the recreational opportunities is the challenge. To combat that, an advertising campaign has started in Highlands Newspape r and Laurel Magazine in a collaborative ad.

“In addition to the specific individual marketing efforts, we are proposing a collaborative campaign with a working title of ‘Get Up-Get Out’ that originates from Highlands’ early motto when the town was a health resort,” he said.

Powell also envisions an oversized decal that can be displayed on doors, registers, and other prominent locations in the towns that the businesses serve to remind everyone to “Get Up-Get Out!” It’s a slogan that’s been echoed across the Plateau for the last 250 years.

by Luke Osteen

Nature Knowledge

The Village Nature Series examines the slithery secrets of the Plateau’s most misunderstood denizens – August 29 at The Village Green in Cashiers.

Since the spring, residents and visitors to the Plateau have been able to participate in the monthly The Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust and The Village Green-sponsored series of lectures. Visitors and residents learn about wildlife in the area and various features of their natural habitats. Previous presentations have included a focus on raptors, black bears, reptiles, the environment, and more.

On August 29, Patrick Brannon, education and outreach coordinator at the Highlands Biological Station, will present “Secret Life of Snakes.” Brannon joined the Highlands Biological Station staff in 2003; prior to that, he enjoyed a career working with other environmental education organizations. His knowledge is due, in part, to a bachelor’s degree in biology from UNC-Asheville, and a Master of Science degree in ecology from Appalachian State University. Plenty of snakes claim the Western

North Carolina mountains as their home, and Brannon will educate regarding regional snakes. In fact, he will provide clear information about the differences between venomous and non-venomous species, and attendees to the lecture will experience a snake, or snakes, up close – and safe.

“We will also dispel many common misconceptions about these often-misunderstood creatures,” shared Brannon.

Some common snakes that may be seen on the Plateau include Northern Water Snakes, Garter Snakes, Black Rat Snakes, and Milk Snakes, as well as Copperheads and Timber Rattlers. Brannon often travels to libraries, schools, and more to make certain children and adults understand different aspects of nature.

The last presentation for the 2023 Village Nature Series season is scheduled for September 26. Cameron Ward offers plenty of information in a presentation

titled “Composting 101: Saving the Planet One Orange Peel at a Time.” Ward will answer such questions as: “Did you know that organic waste (food scraps, garden waste, etc.) accounts for 28 percent of what we throw away?”

Ward’s goal is to equip people with knowledge about organic waste. She focuses on composting, its benefits for conservation, and how individuals can successfully compost at their homes.

The Village Nature Series begins at 5:00 P.M. on the last Tuesday of the month; the first one was in April and the series lasts through September. It is located at The Village Green Commons on Frank Allen Road. For a complete schedule, visit villagegreencashiersnc.com/ village-nature-series.

by Deena Bouknight

Smallmouth Big Thrill

There’s nothing shy about them – Smallmouth Bass are looking for a fight.

As summer sets in, I anxiously await the first day that I can grab my 6wt fly rod, and a handful of popping bugs in pursuit of one of my favorite fish that swims in North Carolina – the Smallmouth Bass. Smallies, Smalljaws, Bronzebacks, whatever you want to call them, they make for one heck of a good time!

In particular I’m referencing Smallmouth Bass that live in our local rivers and even streams (Tuckaseegee, Horsepasture, Little Tennessee, French Broad, Toxaway, Cullasaja, etc.). For me, moving water is far more interesting than still water, and pursuing gamefish that live in rivers and streams adds an extra element to the whole equation.

It’s all about the current, and how the fish you are in pursuit of use those currents to live and feed. For instance, Trout and Smallmouth Bass use current very differently. Trout feed

primarily on aquatic insects, and they use the current to bring those insects to them, and they simply stay in, or close to the current to feed on the buffet line of offerings. Smallmouth Bass are primarily ambush predators feeding mostly on baitfish and crawfish. They use current breaks such as a big rock in the river to hide behind and surprise their prey. Once you understand what to look for, the next step is making your fly or bait look like something they would want to eat.

Smallmouth Bass are strong fish as they come, but the ones that live in the river are even stronger because they are constantly fighting the current. The saying goes that, “if they were tied together, a three-pound River Smallie would drag a 10-pound Largemouth Bass around all day long!”

They love to jump once they are hooked as well, adding to the drama of the fight!

Both fly rod and light spinning tackle are great tools of choice when pursuing River Smallmouth. Water conditions and weather play a vital role in maximizing your experience. Here in the mountains of North Carolina, the best time to go Smallie fishing is when it’s hot, and the water is low and clear. So basically, it’s exactly when the local Trout fishing is at its toughest (which kind of works out perfectly).

When looking for a good place to park the car and get out and wade, you want to look for lots of current breaks and rocky shoals. Typically, those types of areas in the river will hold the highest concentrations of fish.

To learn more about these overlooked fish, stop into your local fly shop!

by Matt Canter, Brookings Fly Shop

Awe-Inspiring Journeys

An innovative program at Highlands Biological Station keeps track of the comings and goings of our feathered neighbors. You can help – visit highlandsbiological.org.

Nestled among the breathtaking landscapes of the southern Appalachian Mountains, the HighlandsCashiers Plateau supports a rich and diverse assemblage of birds.

This quaint region, known for its stunning natural beauty, serves as a crucial stopover for countless migratory birds on their awe-inspiring journeys. The Plateau holds such significance for avian populations that it is even classified as an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society.

Inspired by this information and determined to learn more about local and migratory populations, the Highlands Biological Station (a multi-campus center of Western Carolina University) became a bird banding hub for the Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship (MAPS) project in 2020. This initiative, established over three decades ago, plays a pivotal role in understanding avian demographics and unraveling the mysteries of migration across North America.

The Station’s MAPS bird banding efforts are made possible through collaboration between local organizations. Led by

Blue Ridge Bird Observatory, which has successfully operated several banding stations at other locations in Western North Carolina, and funded by the Highlands Biological Foundation, this project harnesses the expertise of dedicated scientists who tirelessly work to understand avian demographics and ensure the preservation of our feathered friends.

So, what exactly is MAPS bird banding? Every summer, from May to August, BRBO banders and Station staff work together to band birds and meticulously collect biological data on each individual. Birds are carefully equipped with USGS-issued aluminum bands, each with a distinct identification number, and researchers collect biological data such as age, sex, feather condition, wing measurements, and any signs of disease or injury.

This information allows researchers to gain insights into population trends over time. This data not only enhances our understanding of bird migration patterns and health but also highlights the significance of the Plateau as an essential stopover for these winged travelers.

MAPS bird banding goes beyond research alone by encompassing a citizen-science aspect. Community members and visitors are invited to experience this project first-hand through the Highlands Nature Center’s “A Bird’s Eye View” program. Against the backdrop of the Highlands Botanical Garden, this program offers an exclusive opportunity to engage with scientists, learn about bird ecology and conservation, and immerse oneself in the wonders of nature. This educational program aims to inspire a shared responsibility to protect and preserve avian species and their habitats while showcasing vital research conducted at the Station.

We encourage all to mark their calendars and register for the final “A Bird’s Eye View” session of the season coming up in early August. Banding dates vary and are subject to weather conditions. For more information about the MAPS program, please visit highlandsbiological.org. Let us come together to safeguard these remarkable winged travelers for generations to come.

by Winter Gary Highlands Biological Foundation

ARTS

Pages 92-119

photo by Greg Clarkson

Vulnerably Defiant Beauty

The rhythms embedded in the vast plains of Africa and the shadowed ranges of the Southern Appalachians inform the creations of cover artist Colleen Kastner.

The savannahs of Africa and our mountain locale have something in common. They both stake a claim to the inimitable artist and journalist Colleen Kastner. Colleen was born in South Africa and eventually settled in the U.S.

Six years ago, she and her husband discovered Sapphire, fell in love with it, and made it their summer home.

While Colleen has roots in Connecticut and North Carolina, she is often a journeyer. But wherever she goes, she’s a preserver of Beauty, a re-kindler of spirit, and a reminder of the splendor in everything we see – even (or perhaps especially) the marvelous imperfections all around us.

“Flaws,” she says. “can be most intriguing and educational.”

Colleen has a unique view about art

and its remarkable powers. She says, “Both African wilderness and Carolina mountains are amazing, healing places.”

She’s convinced art/creativity and the stunning scope of God’s natural creation are spun together. They’re therapeutic, like her work: scenic, soothing, inviting. When one plunges into her layers of paper, print, ink, wax, charcoal, oil, acrylic, fiber, maps and story, one experiences an internal bloom of joy and healing.

In early childhood, Colleen was denied the arts. She was encouraged to immerse herself in more practical endeavors. So how did she find her passion?

She says, “I was a little lost, until I discovered story-writing and journalism. Story telling is core to therapy. It links to art (images and icons), which lead to human connection, and ultimately, healing.”

She explored and employed the above, not only to help herself through difficult times, but to serve as a mental health therapist for others. “I was doing work

with domestic violence survivors,” she says. “I organized an arts therapy group with women who used art (drawing, painting, journaling) to self-examine and heal past trauma. The arts were essential to their developing resilience and healing. Art can unlock deep mysteries in our psyche (those afore-mentioned intriguing flaws) that language simply cannot reach.”

Dive into Colleen’s mixed media marvels. Let her abstract and impressionist treatments of figures (powerful, defiant, resilliant, yet vulnerable) or landscapes

(skies, valleys, canyons, rivers) call you to your heart’s home.

See her work and join her community online at colleenkastnerart.com, or on Instagram at colleenkastner. If you missed seeing Colleen’s work at the Art League of Highlands-Cashiers Summer Colors Fine Art Show in Sapphire last month, look out for her at their Fall Colors Fine Art Show in Highlands in October.

by Donna Rhodes

ColleenKastner

Pure Alchemy of Leslie Jeffery

For Leslie Jeffery, her life and her art are part of an endless process of discovery and innovation.

Leslie Jeffery lives-for and loves-to paint. Connecting with people who are drawn to her work stokes her creative fires. You can sense her imagination smoldering, burning, then exploding in her brush strokes of her abstract paintings. Sometimes she tells the paint what to do.

Other times her Muse dictates her designs. But no matter how the wind blows and paint flows, she confesses, “I’m pleased when my paintings sell –and I hate to see them go.”

Since her last Laurel interview, among a host of other activities, Leslie has shown at The Bascom, designed a painting for the Highlands Garden Club Plant Sale Raffle (her third year to do so), and has productively exhibited at Ann Lea Fine Art Gallery. She is 2023 Artist for The Highlands/Cashiers Chamber Music Festival and created the painting for this year’s program, posters and advertising. She is esteemed by the Chamber which

recently acquired a Jeffery for their permanent collection.

She’s also experimenting with painting on plexiglass. It’s not as easy as it might sound. Instead of laying down background, middle ground, and foreground, then begin detailing, one must think backwards … paint in reverse. Details go in first and all else in opposite order.

If your brain is now twitching, then you are beginning to grasp the conundrum. As if that weren’t enough, Leslie works with acrylics which dry fast which suits her painting style. She works methodically, consistently, and is extremely prolific.

When asked if she uses current events, themes, music, etc. as inspiration, she replies, “Yes, all of those. I like painting large. It’s more of a thrill. I never know what will happen. I stand in front of a canvas and pick a palette. I love the excitement of not knowing. Sometimes I have a well-defined idea, but usu-

ally I just start.” For this reason, she rarely does commission work. She loves freedom and trusts her experience and tried-and-true process to fill her canvas with vibrant invention. While she has a long history of art studies, she spent many years as a real estate agent, back-and-forth between Florida and Highlands. It’s only the past 15 years she has devoted all her days to painting. She’s one of those gifted artists who, with age, turns paint into pure gold.

See her work at The Bascom’s Member’s Show through August. Stop in 4118 Kitchen + Bar in Bryson Center and enjoy 15 of Leslie’s current works (changed out twice a year). Ann Lea Gallery exhibits Leslie’s fine art. Online, visit her website, LeslieJeffery.ART. After taking in all her contributions to galleries, restaurants, and the worldwide web, you’ll understand the pure Alchemy of Leslie Jeffery.

by Donna Rhodes

A Bundle of Wonderful

Pauline Marr’s skills at stitchery border on witchery.

Sewing is Pauline Marr’s Super Power. If there’s ever a global breakdown, Pauline, an off-the-grid Art Wizard, can keep us in stitches.

In fact, she and her sisters, children, and grandkids are loaded to the teeth with thread, needles, thimbles, sewing machines, and tons of repurpose-able fiber products. Reclaimed clothing, linens, thrift store finds, and anything cotton is about to be a re-worked wearable. Pauline’s home is so dedicated to fiber art, if you open a cookie tin, hoping for a snickerdoodle, you’ll likely find a fascinating entanglement of random sewing notions accompanied by one of her four-legged fuzzies zonked in a cat nap.

was always on the table.

Pauline says, “My mom taught us six girls how to sew. We were repurposing fabrics long before re-cycling was cool. In my 20s and 30s, I sewed all the clothes for my boys. To keep things trendy, I added camo pockets, dinosaur patches and flaps. But when I got into my mid 30s, I moved toward painting; sewing took a sabbatical.”

We were repurposing fabrics long before re-cycling was cool.

Once fabrics are sorted, they’re ready for ripping, cutting, distressing, stamping, bleaching, patching, appliqueing, handsewing, and embroidering. Then cabbage roses and butterflies and all manner of magical things are laid out on the surface of a split pair of dissected jeans. And that’s where the fun really begins.

Growing up in a large family with parents from the Great Depression (nothing was ever thrown away), a sewing machine

When she needed curtains, she wasn’t happy with the ready-mades available.

She says, “I followed a sewing video and found my curtain style. It worked out fine. Then I saw Tracy Myers tutorials and I was hooked for life. She was an up-cycler who knew all kinds of stitchery witchery. She was tearing linens into strips, doing lace and textural bo-ho fabric manipulations. She shone a light on me that will joyfully burn forever.

It takes 3-4 days to reinvent a pair of jeans. Much of it is just like creating a painting. Pauline says, “I decide on a palette. For example, I might plan to use 60 percent of a dominant color, let’s say pink; 30 percent of an auxiliary color, like something

PaulineMarr(below)showcasing herwearableartwithfriends.

from the yellow family hue; and 10 percent of an accent, like a black and white check.

As I lay out flowers, animals, accents on the jeans, it begins to tell a story and come together. I have devised an overlap with button closures that accommodate four different sizes, expanding five inches. It’s not a one size fits all – but nearly.”

Pair the jeans with a vest of bo-ho, edgy hippie pieces finished with a button or wrap-around tie, again, accommodating several sizes. Scraps can be incorporated into a scarf and/or a cross-over-the-shoulder bag. It’s all about designing one-of-a-kind, unique creations.

You can usually find Pauline at the Highlands Farmers Market at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on Saturdays. Call her at (828) 230-3211 to schedule a personal tour of her studio and a conversation about a customized garment, perhaps made from family clothing, photo transfers of beloved pets, heritage buttons, or keepsake jewelry.

Or maybe a God-wink to the magnificent nature that surrounds us. Even though Pauline is steeped in her stitchery now, she still does her fabulous paintings. Make an appointment and visit with this bundle of wonderful.

by Donna Rhodes / photos by Susan Renfro

Journey Back To Joy

No matter where she finds herself, artist Penny Pollock is in the midst of beauty.

PennyPollock

Encaustic, mixed-media painter

Penny Pollock opened our interview with these dreamy words: “I am overlooking Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountain Range. It’s 7:00 A.M. and the air is misty. Just misty. Hummingbirds are circling everywhere. Goldfinches and bunnies are plentiful, and so are deer.”

Across the country, all the way from the Pacific, I could feel Penny’s spirit, wrapped in a swirl of beauty, birdsong, and magic.

If you need a geographical re-fresh, Puget Sound is the large saltwater estuary in the state of Washington, Pacific Northwest. Many concur that that area’s about as close to heaven as one can get. When you view Penny’s images, her magnetic pull to places like the Sound makes perfect sense. Her Kahlo-esque paintings are filled with colors of the wild, animals galore, the spirit of Nature, and figures with engaging eyes,

often reflecting the feminine and the wonder of Life.

But even with the joyful images of Penny’s collection, this year has been a challenge. To keep focused, she immersed herself in her work, throwing all she’s got into her art.

She says, “My recent work, Spirit and Hope, features a young woman holding a mourning dove. It symbolizes the connection of peace to hope and spirit, and the enthusiasm of starting over.”

Penny shares her discoveries with those who resonate with the natural world. “I am on a journey of gifting to people through my work. The lesson is seeing and sensing. It’s the message in my art… to remind viewers to take a moment to be silent and become one with their surroundings. Go to a park or the woods and use eyes, ears, and touch to re-engage with the world.”

Mixed media is her conduit for her messages. She says, “I use a lot of recycled paper. Japanese paper. Rusted paper. (Recently, Penny’s good friend Donna Woods rusted paper towels as a birthday gift. The towels became the wardrobe for her women.) Add to that dried botanicals. Feathers. Old journals. Antique ledgers. Stencils. And jewelry. Every so often the local land surrenders flakes of mica that, placed in an artwork, mirror precious gems.

To see more of Penny’s work, visit Instagram and Facebook, pennypollockart. Her website, pennypollockart. com, has options to create canvas prints, cards, pillows, etc. using images from her paintings. If you are in Atlantic Beach, Florida, catch her work at Archway Gallery. Locally you can visit her studio by appointment – call (805) 798-1418. She’s also available for small group workshops.

by Donna Rhodes

Making History Again

Mountain Theatre Company’s record-breaking run of Jersey Boys sets the pace for a successful season of local professional theater.

Mountain Theatre Company made history last summer at The Highlands Playhouse with Jersey Boys, its opening production of the 2022 Mainstage Season. All 22 performances of the show’s run sold out, totaling over 3,700 tickets sold. It is rare for a show to sell out its entire run, but once word got out in Western North Carolina that the level of talent on MTC’s stage was rivalling that of Broadway, ticket sales took off at an enormous rate. Multiple performances saw people waiting outside the theatre doors as performances began with patrons hoping to score seats from last minute ticket cancellations.

As MTC began to select the current 2023 Season, returning patrons and people who were unable to get tickets to Jersey

Boys began begging them to produce the show again. In a bold move, Executive Director Scott Daniel brought the show back for a limited run return engagement to kick off their 2023 Season this summer. Most of the cast returned as well, including the actors playing the roles of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, whose incredible harmonies and chemistry on stage together had audiences raving.

Despite having fewer performances in a shorter production run, and thanks to their new theater venue at the Highlands Performing Arts Center having another 100 seats to sell, MTC’s 2023 production of Jersey Boys sold even more tickets than the 2022 run. A total of 3,748 people came to see Jersey Boys the second time around, breaking the show’s

own previously held record. The cast and crew celebrated on stage on closing night with a champagne toast after their director, Scott Daniel, shared the news at the final curtain call.

The incredible success of Jersey Boys is setting the stage for another groundbreaking season at Mountain Theatre Company, their first in their new venue as the resident professional theatre company at the new HPAC.

Their 2023 Season continues with Rock of Ages, The Rocky Horror Show, and Home for the Holidays. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit mountaintheatre.com.

by Lindsay Garner Hostetler, Director of Marketing and Outreach, Mountain Theatre Company

John Mezzina Hannigan, Emanuel Carrero, Gianni Palmarini, and Sam Alan Johnson in Mountain Theatre Company’s 2023 production of Jersey Boys.

Photo by Emily Mercedes Rich

Photography’s Dynamic Duo

Brilliant photographers Jacquelyn and Gil Leebrick share their talents and insights with members of the Art League of Highlands-Cashiers, 5:00 P.M. Monday, August 28.

The Art League of HighlandsCashiers is pleased to announce that the guest speakers at the August meeting will be Jacquelyn and Gil Leebrick. The presentation will be at The Bascom Terrace at 5:00 P.M., August 28, following a social at 4:30 P.M.

Jacquelyn has been a practicing artist working in photo-based media and a photographic educator for more than 40 years. She is Professor Emeritus of Photography in the School of Art and Design at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. She received a Masters of Fine Art from Clemson University and a Masters of Art from Florida State University. Feature articles on Jacquelyn’s artwork have appeared in Digital Fine Art Magazine and Camera Arts Magazine. She has exhibited her photographs internationally, nationally and regionally for over 35 years.

In the summer of 2008 The Light Factory Contemporary Museum of Photography and Film in Charlotte exhibited a mid-career retrospective of her artwork. In recent years, she’s lectured and conducted workshops in traditional photography, digital illustration and digital imaging. Jacquelyn and her husband, Gil Leebrick, were honored educators at the Southeast Society for Photographic Education Conference in fall of 2011.

Gil Leebrick has been photographing and teaching photography for more than 55 years. He is Professor Emeritus of Photography and the former Director of the Wellington B. Gray Gallery in the School of Art and Design at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. He was Associate Professor of Art at Clemson University and was Director of the Appalachian Environmental Arts Center from 1984-1991. He’s taught at Western

Carolina University, and was Director of the Image Foundation in Hawaii from 1977 through 1982, where he also taught photography at Honolulu Community College. He is the recipient of grants to photograph Pre-Columbian Native American ceremonial sites. His photographs have been in over 200 exhibits and reside in numerous public and private collections. Gil’s portion of the presentation will exhibit images from a decades long series of work entitled “Visual Meditations.”

Please join us for this free event. For more information about the Art League, visit artleaguehighlands-cashiers.com.

by Zach Claxton,

Art League of Highlands-Cashiers Scan to learn more.

An Original Challenge

The Bascom’s Member Recognition Event and Artist Reception draws upon the deep pool of talent flourishing on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.

Each summer The Bascom presents a juried exhibition opportunity open only to Bascom-supporting members, aptly named The Bascom Member Challenge. The 2023 Member Challenge encourages member artists to think deeply regarding how their work responds to the annual theme, “Origins,” and to create an accompanying written statement that is submitted with the work.

Three jurors with long-term connections to The Bascom and the Plateau are serving this year. Diane C. McPhail, Rosemary Clark-Stiefel, and Mary Lou CarpenterBilbro, have thoughtfully collaborated to select the talented group of Bascom Member artists who will exhibit together in the Thompson gallery this summer.

Thirty-five artists will be included n the exhibition for 2023 including:

J. Aaron Alderman, Margie Bauer, Beth Batson, Jan Best, Beth Bowser, Ken Bowser, Cath Connolly Hudson, Carol Conti, Barbara DeMaire, Cory

Erneston, Deborah Feiste, David Genest, Bob Gregory, Gwen Greenglass, Marti Grinberg, Caleb Hayes, Leslie Jeffery, Barbara Jamison, Kim Keelor, Colleen Kastner, Gary Kornheiser, Sandy Kornheiser, Toni Lyons Phillips, Katherine McClure, Josephine Miller, Jennifer Stack Moore, Penny Pollock, Carol Rivers, Sarah Riley, Barbara Sallows, Beth Stern, Ann Cox Strub, Martha Sutherland-Wright, Corbin Tucker, and Helen Ziga.

In addition to the exhibition, on display through September 16, a public reception and Bascom supporting Members celebration will be held at The Bascom on August 10, from 5:00 P.M. to 6:30 P.M. The Bascom depends on member support to sustain the organization and the extensive schedule of public programs offered to the community each year.

by Billy Love, The Bascom

Curated to Captivate

Highlands Chamber Music Festival puts a bow on a glorious 2023 Season with its Gershon/Cohn Festival All Stars gala concert and Dinner, set for August 6. Call (828) 526-9060 or email hccmfnc@gmail.com for tickets. Tickets are also available online at h-cmusicfestival.org.

Chee-Yun

DavidCoucheron

Thanks to the HighlandsCashiers Chamber Music Festival, the town of Highlands has long been a paradise for chamber music, a status reaffirmed by the enthusiastic response to the creative excellence of the 2023 season.

On August 6 the festival maintains its much-loved tradition of concluding the season with a final gala concert and dinner, the Gershon/Cohn Festival All Stars. Named in honor of those who have made significant contributions to the festival, the gala takes place in the grand and acoustically impeccable venue of the Highlands Performing Arts Center.

Thoughtfully selected and curated to captivate audiences for the gala concert are Schumann’s Piano Quintet in Eb Major, Schumann and Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence for String Sextet, performed by this year’s music luminaries.

Playing cello are Charae Krueger,

principal cellist with The Atlanta Opera and the Atlanta Ballet orchestras, and a lecturer and artist-in-residence at Kennesaw State University, and Zuill Bailey. Having established himself as one of the leading cellists of his generation, Bailey has won numerous awards and is well known for his passionate performances.

On viola are Yinzi Kong and Milena Pajaro-van de Stadt. A native of Shanghai, Kong is a founding member of the internationally acclaimed Vega String Quartet and has performed in major concert halls worldwide. A rising star in the viola world, Stadt is a violist of the Dover Quartet and a past recipient of the first prize and every special award at the Baff International String Quartet Competition. She has performed in recitals and chamber music concerts throughout the United States, Latin America, and Europe. Performing on Violin are Chee-Yun,

Artist-in-Residence at Southern Methodist University, and David Coucheron, concertmaster of the Atlanta Symphony. After winning the Young Concert Artists International Auditions in 1989, Chee-Yun had her recital debut at Carnegie Hall and appeared in season 7 of Curb Your Enthusiasm. An active recording artist, Coucheron has given solo recitals at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Salt Lake City Olympic Winter Games.

Music written for piano will be performed by HCCMF Artistic Director, William Ransom. He is currently the Mary L. Emerson Professor of Piano at Emory University in Atlanta and is the founder and Artistic Director of the Emory Chamber Music Society of Atlanta.

Dinner follows the concert at the Highlands Falls Country Club.

by Marlene Osteen

Main Stage Happenings

Who’s laughing now? Kelly Swanson brings her slightly-skewed take on life – Who Hijacked My Fairy Tale – to Highlands Performing Arts Center, on Saturday, August 26.

KellySwanson

It’s Comedy Tonight on Saturday, August 26 at 7:30 P.M. with Kelly Swanson and her Who Hijacked My Fairy Tale. Kelly’s wacky wit and powerful stories have charmed hearts and tickled funny bones for over 15 years. Swanson is an award-winning storyteller, comedian, motivational speaker, Huffington Post Contributor, and cast member of The Fashion Hero television show airing on Amazon Prime. She has authored Who Hijacked My Fairy Tale, The Land of If Only, The Story Formula, and The Gutsy Girls Pocket Guide to Public Speaking. She has been the keynote speaker for the International Toastmasters Convention and has keynoted major conferences and corporate events from coast to coast. Saturday, September 2, at 7:30 P.M. brings the Ultimate Rock Concert to the main stage with THE HIT MEN. Foreigner, Cheap Trick, Wings, Alan Parsons, Billy Joel, Sting, Elton John,

Journey, The Who and Cream were among the most beloved and influential classic rock artists of the second half of the 20th century. And all share another common denominator: at some point during their careers each had at least one of THE HIT MEN playing behind them on the road or in the studio.

THE HIT MEN – a supergroup consisting of super-talented sidemen and sessions musicians – either played, sang or did both on tour or in the studio for some of the most memorable classic rock hits of the era, including Feels Like The First Time (Foreigner), Don’t Stop Believin’ (Journey), Live and Let Die (Wings), Eye In The Sky (Alan Parsons), and You May Be Right (Billy Joel), using their talents to entrance audiences internationally. In their exciting multimedia show, THE HIT MEN perform the hits that they helped rocket to the top of the Billboard charts, and they share fascinating never-before-told backstage

stories about their adventures on the road and in recording studios with the classic rock legends they performed with. It’s like seeing 10 Rock Legends for the price of one!

And by the way, the National Theatre of London will present (recorded live from the West End) The Best of Enemies by James Graham on Saturday, August 12, at 1:00 P.M. in the Martin-Lipscomb Theater.

All tickets are available at HighlandsPerformingArts.com or at 507 Chestnut Street, Highlands NC.

by Mary Adair Trumbly, Highlands Performing Arts Center

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Supplementing Music Education

The 2023 Bel Canto, set for Sunday, September 10, at the Highlands Performing Arts Center, continues an extraordinary tradition that’s enraptured audiences for 31 years.

The 31st annual Bel Canto Recital will be held in Highlands on Sunday, September 10, at 4:00 P.M. at the Highlands Performing Arts Center. This yearly recital series is an affiliate of The Bascom, and proceeds go to supplement music education at two preschool programs, music education at our public schools, a college scholarship in the performing arts, and to the acquisition of art for special art exhibitions and for the Bascom’s permanent collection.

In total, Bel Canto has contributed over $750,000 to these worthy programs.

This year’s performers are soprano Greer Lyle, who is a Carrollton, Georgia, native. She is a graduate of Georgia State University School of Music and the Yale Opera Program within the Yale School of Music. Ms. Lyle made her professional debut in 2018 with Opera

Theatre of Saint Louis. In spring of 2021, she competed at the semifinalist level for the first-ever livestreamed Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions.

…proceeds go to supplement music education…

Lucy Baker will be the mezzo-soprano. Lucy has sung with the DePaul Opera Theatre, the Chautauqua Institution, and with the Chautauqua Opera Company. She is currently singing with the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

American tenor Sahel Salam is known for his “warm, plangent voice” and “gleaming tone.”

As a 2023 National Finalist in the

Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition and winner of the Mario Lanza Competition, he has performed at the Glyndebourne Festival Opera, the San Francisco Opera, The Music Academy of the West, and the Cincinnati Opera. Baritone Phillip Addis will round out the quartet. He has established himself as one of Canada’s leading performers of opera, concert, and recital repertoire. He has extensive international concert experience, and he has given recitals worldwide with pianist Emily Hamper. For information about this recital series, please call The Bascom at (828) 787-2885.

by Michael Crowe

Talented Artisans

Back

If large crowds and big smiles are the hallmarks of a successful event, then the June Mountaintop Rotary’s Art and Craft Show was a smashing success. The good news is that if you missed that show, or if you had so much fun you want to go again, you’ve got another chance when the season’s final show will be held on August 26 and 27 at the Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park in Highlands. Hours are from 10:00 A.M. -5:00 P.M. on Saturday and 10:00 A.M. -4:00 P.M. on Sunday.

This art and craft show combines the best of the area’s talented artisans with the fun and excitement of a street festival. There is something here for all ages to enjoy.

Local artist and Highlands School art teacher Jessica Moschouris displayed her pottery in the June show and said it was fun seeing so many people enjoying themselves and discovering all the wonderful art.

Another local vendor, Jeannie

Chambers, says “I’ve been a part of the Arts and Crafts show since 2018 and look forward to it every year. All the vendors we’ve met have been so nice and it’s sort of like ‘old home week’ when we see each other again.”

Don’t miss the chance to purchase items from two local exhibitors who sell their creations as a means of fundraising for their chosen charities. Dr. John Baumrucker sells sumptuous jams, jellies and salsas with all proceeds going to his Bolivian Mission. Jane Chalker offers unique trash can metal art with proceeds going to Highlands Friends of Haiti.

It goes without saying that any street festival needs great music and crowd favorites Nitrograss will be back by popular demand to fill that need with the toe-tapping, good-time sounds of bluegrass music.

Highlands-Cashiers Hospital/Eckerd Living Center outdid themselves with their Teddy Bear Clinic in June and

they will be back in action at the August show. Children can bring their own teddy bear or can adopt a bear on-site and have their boo-boos attended to by volunteers from the hospital. These young caregivers can walk their tiny patients through an entire medical procedure, from registration to diagnosis and treatment.

The event is free, but donations are accepted and encouraged as it is Mountaintop Rotary’s largest fundraiser and allows the club to achieve its goals of helping families and children in need, both locally and internationally. There will also be a Silent Auction with generous donations from the artisans in attendance as well as from our community.

For more information on the show visit highlandsartshow.com or Facebook @ Highlands Mountaintop Art & Craft show for the latest updates.

by Mary Jane McCall

and somehow even bigger, Mountaintop Rotary’s Art & Craft Show returns to Highlands’ Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on August 26 and 27.

Sharing Prose

The nascent Writer’s Group at Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library is a safe space of encouragement and advice for interested amateurs and prose pros.

This is the first summer that Michael Redman has facilitated a writer’s group at the Albert CarltonCashiers Community Library, but local writers have been meeting in various ways and at various times for many years.

Redman, a writer for many years, has been an adjunct professor at Western Carolina University, teaching freshman and sophomore composition. With a WCU master’s degree in English, and a concentration in literature, Redman is interested in discussing all types of writing with attendees from all walks of life.

“Absolutely anyone is welcome — the more diverse our group is genre- and style-wise, the better,” he said.

The writing group meetings are every Thursday at 1:00 P.M. in the conference room of the Cashiers Library.

Redman provided The Laurel with an excerpt from his short story, “Downriver”: … “You’ve been here long enough to know the place, right? It’s out past those old bungalows on the east side of town. It looks more like a swamp than a cove, actually, with the murky water and the Spanish moss everywhere. For a long time, it was a kind of unofficial community picnicking spot — the children could go swimming while their fathers manned charcoal grills and their mothers sat around in the shade and gossiped. A few years ago, the state put up some signs to discourage the kids from swimming there since no one really knew what might be in the water. There could be leeches or water moccasins, but no one ever saw them, so everyone pretty much ignored the warnings. … No one knew why they named the boy Ambrose, but he sure got picked on about it at school. He was a strange child, though, and not many parents would let their kids play with him. When he came down to the cove, he’d go swimming alone while parents made their own kids keep their distance. People tended to avoid him in general. You know the type of kid: the sullen boy who traps houseflies on a screen door and plucks their wings off or only smiles when he’s cut a worm in two and can watch the half-worms wriggling around in the dirt.”

by Deena Bouknight

The Practical & Theological

An intern at Highlands United Methodist Church offers an intriguing look at the ways in which Art informs the spiritual life of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau and far beyond.

NicoleKallsen

In the scores of artist interviews I’ve been privileged to conduct over the years, most artists give credit for their inspiration to the beauty of the Plateau – and the Higher Power who designed it. They often say, “I can’t build a tree or construct the likes of a Whiteside. I can only praise their Creator and attempt to paint a likeness.”

Nicole Kallsen, a Duke Divinity School student just finished conducting a study, “Creative Witness,” at Highlands United Methodist Church. Her assignment: spend 10 weeks in a church and serve the community.

She chose to teach. Her theme: integrating the practical and the theological. In Highlands’ creative environment, she wanted to open a discourse about the Arts: how Art, the Holy Trinity, and the individual embrace. The big questions were: (How) is art a form of worship? Given that Christianity’s God is a Creator, how do artists partner as

co-creators with God’s work? How do the arts reveal our humanity and longing for the divine? Finally, how does our sensory experience of art inform our understanding of God?

Nicole invited participants to shine a new light on their environment, using story-telling. Nicole shared a metaphor of one of her professors, Dr. Jeremy Begbie. He compared a 3-note chord to the Trinity: a chord is three tones played or sung together. Each pitch has its own unique vps (vibrations per second). Each can be separated out in hearing. The three are individual, yet one.

During week five, Nicole invited her class to consider how dance is an extension of this musical metaphor. In the Biblical text, Jesus (the Word) is explained as follows in the prologue to the Gospel of John: The Word became flesh and lived among us (1:14 NRSV). Jesus embodies the music of the Trinity in His life. Jesus models for Christians what

it means to move, dance, hop, or even skip, in step with God. As an embodied metaphor, dance enables participants to respond to the Trinity’s music.

In closing, Nicole says, “Nature is important to me. Nature is God’s canvas … or a musical score where we experience God’s spirit dancing in the trees. I know God created this world. His fingerprints are everywhere.”

And in our artful communities that support The Bascom Fine Art Center, an active Performing Arts Center, primo art galleries, world-class chamber music, Friday and Saturday night summer music performances, it’s clear, this mountaintop has a musical range to beat the band and painting down to a fine art.

Nicole invites discussions about the connection between Art and the Realm of the Spiritual. You can contact her at Nicole.kallsen@duke.edu.

by Donna Rhodes

Pages 126-143

photo by Greg Clarkson

Served Up With Care

DonLeon brings his impeccable menu and breezy personality to a new location –462 Dillard Road in Highlands. He’s open from 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. Tuesday through Saturday.

It was a delight to get the assignment for a review of DonLeon’s, newly ensconced across the road from Dusty’s in Highlands.

That’s because I knew what I was getting into – a reunion with an old friend (and that includes the eternally patient, relentlessly cheerful Susan, who’s stationed at the counter and is always ready with a quip or a report on the state of the kitchen or the world); and, of course, a menu of lunch favorites and sides, served up with care. Let’s roll back the years, way back to the

early aughts and I’ll explain the frisson of excitement I felt when Marjorie sent me on this rendezvous.

DonLeon’s Deli in Highlands, located in the building that now houses Los Vaqueros, was the stuff of legends. It was the place where you could find a meal under 10 bucks and, this is important, keep tabs on the comings and goings of this little mountain town.

And at the center of the show was the irrepressible DonLeon himself, a garrulous force of nature who knew his way

about a quick-serve kitchen and a story. To Don Leon, you were a regular, even if you were walking in for the first time.

That’s why it hit hard when DonLeon suddenly up and left town, succumbing to a wanderlust and a sense that new adventures were awaiting, just over the horizon.

And that’s why it was an equal astonishment in 2020 to hear the news that DonLeon, after a decade-long absence, was back in Hi Town.

He has opened at 462 Dillard Road, complete with a comfy dining room and

outdoor dining. He’s serving up a menu of Gyros, Chicken Pitas, Burgers, Philly Cheese Steaks, Wings, Greek Salads, and Chicken Tenders, and lots more.

Tricia fell in love with a Sabch Pita, an Israeli version of the classic Gyro – authentic Israeli pita, fresh chopped veggies, sauteed veggies, chopped egg, feta cheese, and tzatziki.

Our friend, who was in something of a predatory mood, chowed down on the Angus Burger – herbed Angus topped with applewood-smoked bacon and cheddar cheese, served up between a ciabatta bun.

For me, it was an old favorite from DonLeon’s food truck days – Billy Bob’s

Fish Fillet Sandwich – glorious fried cod on one of those ciabatta buns.

As I was peckish, I went ahead and included a Basket of Fries, which is featured on the menu under the heading of “Small Stuff.” Consumer Alert –there’s nothing small about this basket of chips smothered in cheddar cheese and laced with barbecued pork! This is a face-first plunge into the best of pub food! No regrets!

And of course, overseeing this entire enterprise is the irrepressible DonLeon, who labors in the kitchen, yet finds time to wander amidst the tables and converse with everyone. It’s a wonderful performance and he’s magnetic in

his populist pull.

It’s why Highlanders remembered him after a decade’s-long absence, and it’s absolutely charming. Of course, Susan sets the tone for the visit with her easy chatting at the counter. In fact, both of them asked about my new dog from Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society and my son, who they haven’t seen in 10 years. How’s that for embedding yourself into small town life?

Whether you’re a lifelong Plateau dweller or someone just passing through, DonLeon is saving a table for you.

by Luke Osteen

DonLeonandSusan

Simplicity and Refreshment

Anxious about pairing your red with your summer grilled selection? Chill!

Now that its August and we’re all camping out around our grills, it’s time to explore what to drink. For those of you who’s usual pairing is a tall cold one with foam, let me suggest elevating your beverage and putting a stem on that glass.

The key to a successful wine-food pairing for outdoor dining is simplicity and refreshment. Don’t overthink it – the wine should be as casual as the setting. Wondering what wine is best to serve with all that hot from the grill food?

When your crowd gathers for a backyard barbecue and the menu features steak, lamb, burgers, grilled vegetables and the like, red wines are called for. Though you may regard that marbled piece of aged steak as the quintessential opportunity to open that long-hoarded bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon, it hardly seems refreshing sitting outside on a hot day. Instead reach for a wine with a chill. But first we need to clear a few cobwebs

out of the way. Among them that red wine can’t be served cooled. In fact, some red wines show their best attributes when cooled down a touch. That doesn’t mean that your wine should come straight from the fridge – between 55 and 60 degrees is ideal. Reds that taste great served at these temps are unoaked with lower tannin and higher acid. Translation: avoid tannins and oaky flavors. What does that leave? Only much of the low-priced red wine universe. Allow me to make a list, beginning in Italy: Barbera, Valpolicella, Chianti, Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, to name a few.

As for the steak, consider a Cabernet Franc from the Loire. A slight chill will activate the mouthwatering peppery attributes and high acid of this cool climate red - perfect companion to the dominant charred flavor of the meat.

As to Barbecue, I am a long-time believer that Champagne is perfect, as

long as you steer clear of overly sweet sauce, which you should do anyway. For brisket, I also suggest a red wine with firm acidity and a touch of smoke to echo the meat. I’d reach for a Chianti, one that emphasizes the dusty, smoky fruit of the Sangiovese grape.

The simplest fare – hot dog and hamburgers – calls for relatively fruity red wines, especially those that are served slightly chilled such as Beaujolais, or a Russian River Pinot Noir.

Still have room on your grill? Simply grilled fish and chicken pair terrifically with Sauvignon Blanc, Gruner Veltliner or even Verdejo. Citrusy, sometimes grassy, and always light, they are sophisticated enough to satisfy a refined palate yet simple enough to be pleasurable.

And of course, Rose would match any of these proteins flawlessly!

by Marlene Osteen

Culinary Stars Shine Bright

Skyline

Lodge’s Under the Stars, On the Rocks

brings a taste of the Lowcountry at its finest on August 22.

In the past two years, some of the brightest shining culinary stars have made their way to the Skyline Lodge’s Oak Steakhouse to participate in the guest chef series Under the Stars, On the Rocks.

Featured on August 22 are two of the Lowcountry’s brightest – Mashama Bailey and Trevor Elliot of The Grey in Savannah, Georgia. Here, at the restaurant that was built from the ruins of a once-segregated bus station, the duo attracts diners from around the world

for singular dishes that fuse Lowcountry tradition with innovation.

Executive Chef Mashama Bailey may be a household name in Savannah, but her influence has spread far beyond coastal Georgia. Named “the most important chef in America” by the Financial Times, she’s charmed audiences on Netflix’s Chef’s Table, co-written a book – Black, White & the Grey with her business partner John Morisano and made history in 2019 as the first Black woman to win the coveted James Beard Award for

Outstanding Chef. In 2022, her story was featured on the Today show as part of a series on inspiriting women alongside the likes of Michelle Obama.

Bailey’s ascension to the culinary stratosphere is the stuff of legends. Born in the Bronx, she went back and forth between New York and Georgia until the age of 5. There she remained until age 11 when the family eventually returned to New York. After culinary school in New York and France, she worked in multiple New York City kitchens, ending

PhotobyChiaChong

at Prune, where she rose to the rank of sous chef under culinary icon Gabrielle Hamilton. Ultimately, she decided to return to the South and accepted an offer to partner with entrepreneur and venture capitalist John Morisano, opening The Grey Restaurant in 2015.

Chef de Cuisine at The Grey, Trevor Elliot works alongside Bailey, boosting the vision of Port City Southern Cuisine. Trained in New York and San Francisco at acclaimed restaurants Ai Fior, Houseman, and Marcos, Elliot focuses on sourcing local produce meat and seafood.

Along with her co-founder and business

partner John Morisano, Bailey and their Grey Spaces hospitality group opened two new restaurants in 2022: the Diner Bar and The Grey Market in Austin, which was lauded by the Austin American-Statesman and Austin Monthly Magazine as one of the city’s Best New Restaurants, for its distinct take on Port City Southern fare.

Tickets are $175 per person and include a signature welcome cocktail and fourcourse dinner with beverage pairings. Additional a la carte drinks are available for purchase. Limited availability and advanced reservations required.

Next up in the series are Ryan Prewitt of

Peche New Orleans on September 12 and Joe Kindred, of Kindred, of Davidson, North Carolina, on October 3.

For reservations or more information, visit oaksteakhouserestaurant.com/event/ under-the-stars-on-the-rocks-august/

by Marlene Osteen

ExecutiveChef MashamaBailey

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Thirsty Thursdays

Highlands Wine Shoppe’s wine tastings are an enchantment of the palate and a deep dive into exquisite vintages. For more information, call (828) 526-4080. Better yet, stop in –269 Oak Street.

Have you checked out the wine tastings at the Highlands Wine Shoppe?

Just about a year ago, owner and Certified Sommelier Stephanie Miskew, started the popular #ThirstyThursday wine tasting series.

Each week focuses on a timely, seasonally-inspired topic – a region, producer or varietal – with an assortment of bottles and an infectiously unrestrained enthusiasm. Occasionally they’ll feature a guest, or discuss a wine related issue, but by design the format is interactive and engaging. There’s always a rapt and enthusiastic audience of regulars and visitors enjoying the wine, conversation, and education.

The Wine series is held every Thursday in August from 4:30 to 6:30 P.M. and costs $25 per person. Accompanying the wines is a selection of charcuterie. The series is informal, and reservations are

not required. For the wine-obsessed, the tastings qualify as crazy entertainment.

Thursday, August 3: Rosé Soirée: It’s not summer without Rosé. This is a deep dive into how to raise your rosé game with wines that are refreshing, carefree and worthy of more than a solo cup. From the classics made in Provence to an exploration of the less well-known wines produced in Spain and elsewhere – these are the rosé wines to drink this summer

Thursday, August 10: Organic, Biodynamic + Vegan: For years, wine lovers only had to decide between red and white wines. Now the question is whether the wine should also be green. Stephanie and Annelize will help you navigate the confusing differences and distinction between the designations and decide for yourself how they taste.

Thursday, August 17: She’s Got Legs: What does a wine’s “legs” really mean? Are they really a thing, and are they an

indication of the quality of the wine? Let’s find out!

Thursday: August 24: A Study in Sauvignon Blanc: Much as rosé, grassy, zesty Sauvignon Blancs evoke summer. Discover how these savory characteristics can be found in a variety of wines and styles from Bordeaux to New Zealand and the Loire Valley.

Thursday, August 31: Golf Wines: Enjoy selections from some of the world’s best golfers. Why do some of the top golf clubs in the world also have some of the finest wine cellars. The combination really isn’t a surprise – the British Open trophy is in the shape of a claret jug and top golfers like Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, and Ernie Els have their own wine labels. Let’s taste!

by Marlene Osteen

Gabbard’s Cheesecake

Andrea Gabbard has spent countless hours in the kitchen perfecting this cheesecakiest of cheesecakes.

Andrea Gabbard, one of the powerhouse brokers at Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty brought this recipe for the classic cheesecake to me just in time for August celebrations.

Some years ago, Gabbard set out to become a culinarian. After graduating from the acclaimed Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, she worked stints behind the stoves in the Cayman Islands, the Florida Governor’s mansion and at a top security clearance operation in Connecticut.

Ultimately, she opened her own restaurant in Tallahassee in the late 1980’s. She called it The Grilled Tuna. Gabbard sold that restaurant in 1995 and in 1998 moved to the Plateau, or as she described it, “We drove up here from Tallahassee with all our stuff hanging out of the car and found home.”

AndreaGabbardandNora

For this spin on the traditional decadent dessert, Gabbard drew from the most popular dessert at her former restaurant. A recipe she developed, as she told me, after much trial and error. It is a recipe of distinction, a definitive rendition of the classic dessert – simple and rich with a smooth creaminess and contrasting crust, it’s easily accessorized with ripe fruit or flavors.

Gabbard warns that to bake the cheesecake without a water bath is to tempt faith – to risk curdling the filling. Make it yourself as soon as you can. It is to die for.

Andrea’s Cheesecake

Ingredients

For the Crust:

¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

⅓ cup unsalted butter or margarine, melted

For the Filling:

4 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, softened

1 ¼ cups sugar

½ cup sour cream

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

5 large eggs

For the Topping:

½ cup sour cream

2 teaspoons sugar

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 475°F. Place a large pan filled with 1/2 inch water in oven.

2. Make crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs and cinnamon; add butter or margarine. Press crust onto bottom and 2/3 of the way up a 9-inch springform pan lined with parchment. Wrap a large piece of foil around bottom of pan. Freeze until filling is prepared.

3. Make filling: Use an electric mixer to mix cream cheese, sugar, sour cream and vanilla. Blend until smooth and creamy. Scrape down sides of bowl. Whisk eggs in a bowl; add to cream cheese mixture. Blend just until eggs are incorporated.

4. Remove crust from freezer and pour in filling. Carefully place cheesecake into preheated water bath. Bake for 12 minutes; turn oven to 350°F and bake until top of cheesecake turns golden, 50 to 60 minutes. Remove cake to a wire rack to cool.

5. Make topping: Combine sour cream and sugar; spread over cake. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours.

by Marlene Osteen

Our Award Winners

KelseyHoffman, TheDiningRoomatHighHamptonBeverageDirector

Wine Spectator offers a toast to a quintet of extraordinary restaurants.

Wine Spectator, the bible of wine enthusiasts everywhere recently announced its 2023 restaurant award winners, with honors going to five restaurants on the Plateau.

Launched in 1981, the Restaurant Awards are the world’s only program focused solely on wine service. Recognition is assigned on 3 tiers: the Award of Excellence, the Best of Award of Excellence, and the Grand Award.

Local recipients of the Award of Excellence, given to restaurants with wine lists of 90 or more selections, are Wild Thyme in Highlands and the Greystone Inn in Lake Toxaway.

Although no area restaurant received the Grand Award, the next best, Best of Award of Excellence, was given to three in Highlands/Cashiers - the Dining Room at High Hampton, Madison’s Restaurant at Old Edwards, and Paoletti’s. These properties take their efforts a step further – their lists must include 350 selections or more and represent a breadth of wine regions and styles.

Indeed, receiving a Best of Award of Excellence is a testament to a restaurant’s commitment to a memorable wine list, and an indication that significant thought and resources are being devoted to wine.

Recently I talked to the Sommeliers at the three Best of Winners on the Plateau and asked them about their wine programs and what the ranking meant to them.

For nearly two decades, Madison’s Restaurant at Old Edwards Inn has presided over Main Street, cossetting guests with extraordinary food, exemplary service and a curated wine list that has since 2008 earned the Best of Award of Excellence. Head Sommelier Jared Lorenz regards receiving the award, “As an immense honor, it signals to our guests that for over a decade, we’ve been committed to offering world-class winemakers, regions, and vintages. We take pride in offering classic, recognizable wine producers alongside emerging wineries, allowing us to educate and appeal to every palate.”

The restaurant’s 1,200-bottle list shows the greatest depth in Red Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Napa Cabernet Sauvignon.

Several years ago the historic High Hampton Inn in Cashiers partnered with Blackberry Farm and underwent a refresh. Completed in 2021, the resort now enjoys luxe sensibilities while remaining a charming mountain gem.

At the top-notch, The Dining Room at High Hampton, Beverage Director Kelsey Hoffman explained that “Our 450 bottle wine list features thoughtful winemakers, small production wineries

JaredLorenz,Madison’sRestaurantHeadSommelier

that are focused on creating great wine while concentrating on making sure they’re having a great impact on the world as well. We feature wines from around the world, but because we want to mirror our culinary program, we have a stronger presence in French, Italian, and California wines.”

Arthur Paoletti, owner of his namesake restaurant, has been passionately collecting wine since the late 1980s, as is evident by the Best of Award he’s received annually since 1987. Today the restaurant has an inventory of 7,000 bottles housed in two temperature-controlled cellars and a 1,000-bottle list. Director of Operations Gina Paoletti, said that “The award is a product of our continuing commitment to not only offering an extensive wine list but a primarily European wine list in keeping with our Italian roots and traditions. Sommelier Kyle Tarczynski, who manages the wine program elaborated, “Because Italy is a complicated wine region and many of our wines are not widely available, my goal is to put the best wine in your glass.”

Clearly, the Plateau is a wine-loving community with the rankings to prove it.

by Marlene Osteen

LefttoRight:VijayShastri,KyleTarczynski,and ArthurPaoletti,Paoletti’sWineTeam

Plateau Dining Guide

The Restaurants of the Highlands Cashiers Plateau

HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS

Asia House - (828) 787-1680

Black Bear Cafe - (828) 482-7020

The Blue Bike Cafe - (828) 526-9922

Bryson’s Deli - (828) 526-3775

The Cake Bar - (828) 421-2042

Dusty’s - (828) 526-2762

El Azteca - (828) 526-2244

Highlands Burritos - (828) 526-9313

Highlands Deli SweeTreats - (828) 526-9632

Highlands Tavern - (828) 526-9002

Madison’s Restaurant - (828) 787-2525

Midpoint (828) 526-2277

Mountain Fresh - (828) 526-2400

The Ruffed Grouse - (828) 526-2590

The Secret Garden - (828) 305-7509

Spinx Highlands - (828) 526-4191

Subway - (828) 526-1706

Wild Thyme Gourmet - (828) 526-4035

CASHIERS AREA RESTAURANTS

Buck’s Coffee Cafe - (828) 743-9997

Canyon Kitchen - (828) 743-7967

Chile Loco - (828) 743-1160

Cornucopia Restaurant - (828) 743-3750

El Manzanillo - (828) 743-5522

The Fix Bar & Lounge - (828) 743-7477

Jim’s Place at Sapphire Country Store - (828) 966-4011

JJ’s Canteen and Eatery - (828) 743-7778

The Library Kitchen and Bar - (828) 743-5512

Mica’s Restaurant - (828) 743-5740

Mountain Cafe - (828) 577-0469

Panthertown Cafe - (828) 862-3663

Sapphire Mountain Brewing Company - (828) 743-0220

Slab Town Pizza - (828) 743-0020

Slopeside Tavern - (828) 743-8655

Subway - (828) 743-1300

Town and Country General Store (828) 547-1300

Ugly Dog - (828) 743-3000

Villa Amato (828) 885-7700

Wendy’s - (828) 743-7777

Whiteside Brewing Company - (828) 743-6000

Winslow’s

- (828) 743-2226

Plateau Lodging

Accommodations on the Highlands Cashiers Plateau

BREVARD, NC:

Meraki Escape - (828) 463-7440

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 HotelA 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

- (828) 526-1717

Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-3717

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

Lotts of Sky - (404) 395-4000

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

Earthshine Lodge - (828) 862-4207

Greystone Inn - (828) 966-4700

Lake Toxaway Realty Company - (828) 508-9141

Pages 150-155

photo by Greg Clarkson

A BEAUTIFUL STATEMENT

Handcrafted in solid 14K yellow gold, and boasting a 27ct natural, earth-mined emerald, this piece is sure to make a statement.

14k Gold Choker with 27ct Emerald Pendant | $11,439 Jackson Hole Gem Mine | Highlands

NATURAL DÉCOR

This beautiful Kokedama will make a sculpture-like creation in your space - a living piece of art. Keep it hydrated and happy with a functional yet stylish brass watering can.

Brass Watering Can $115 | Handcrafted Kokedama $ 48 The Watershed Studio and Shoppe | Cashiers

Plateau Picks A few of our favorite things

SEE THE JOURNEY

Whiteside Mountain, Bears, Peregrine Falcons — get closer to nature with this powerful, rugged, and colorful travel binocular.

Waterproof Binoculars $ 95 | Tapestry Strap $ 27

Highland Hiker | Highlands/Cashiers

A FAMILY OF FLAVORS

Curated by Wine Maker Guy Davis, enjoy this special collection from his vineyards. Includes 2019 Rose de Noir, 2021 Cuvée Luke, 2019 Soul Patch, and 2019 The Sage. Davis Family Vineyards Popular Four Pack $169/set *15%+ savings

High Country Wine + Provisions | Highlands

FRENCH BEAUTY

The Gien Rambouillet Hare Rim Soup Bowl is painted by hand, making each a one-of-a-kind piece of art. Made in France and covered in pretty foliage, on a cross hatched background, highlighted by a single hare. Made from Faience - a fine, porous earthenware which is tin-glazed and then fired repeatedly.

OF ART AND LIGHT

Each Charlie West lamp begins as a piece of clay. He then hand turns each piece on the pottery wheel. Once the piece has been fired, glazed and re-fired in the kiln, it is then ready to be made into a beautiful, one-of-a-kind lamp.

Charlie West Hand-Turned Lamp | $ 685

Toby West Home | Cashiers

JEWEL OF THE TABLE

At once vintage-inspired, yet refined and modern, this hand-blown decanter is made by glass artisans in Poland. Shaped with old-world inspiration, but thoroughly contemporary in its curves and translucent, blue hue, it is a winner on any bar cart, drawing room or dining table.

Estelle Glassware

Cobalt Blue Vogue Decanter | $160

Objet d’Art | Cashiers

COMFORTABLE KEEPSAKES

Soft and comfortable, this all-cotton T-shirt is the perfect memorabilia of your time in Cashiers.

Cashiers Adventure T-Shirt | $ 34 99

The Corner Store | Cashiers

Gien Hare Rambouillet Soup Bowl | $1,490/set of four CK Swan | Highlands

Four Talented Creators

Acorns’ August trunk shows will spotlight four unique collections. Discover these treasures for yourself at 212 South 4th Street in Highlands.

IsabelleAmbrose

JudeFrances

ElizabethLocke

SouthernBungalow

It’s the annual season of trunk shows at Acorns, Old Edwards’s home décor and furnishing shop. In August, four talented creators of designer jewelry and home goods will be spotlighted. It’s a chance to glimpse four very special collections, preview new and exclusive offerings, and form a one-to-one connection with the artist or representative. Anyone who loves jewelry, collects jewelry, or is simply interested in jewelry wants to do one thing, visit a place where jewelry that really makes a statement is offered.

August 4-5: JudeFrances Jewelry: Minimalist, geometric designs inspired by nature and architecture and made from high quality metals – sterling silver and gold – are signatures of the Los Angeles based brand from JudeFrances. Her stackable and mix and matchable pieces adorn the wrists, fingers, and necks of stylish women of all ages.

August 11-13: Elizabeth Locke: Timeless

designs, exquisite craftsmanship and the incorporation of both gemstones and unique materials (ancient coins and vintage intaglios) are hallmarks of designer Elizabeth Locke who fell in love with antiquities at an early age. Classic elegance and modern sensibility combine in her collection resulting in the heirloom quality pieces that can be passed down through generations.

August 19: Isabelle Ambrose: At the heart of Isabelle Ambrose’s collection are the bracelets, necklaces and earrings she hand-crafts from semi-precious stones, pearls and other high quality materials. Her works reflect both her beginnings in Santa Rosa, Florida in 2016, and her current residence in Highlands - drawing inspiration from the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge mountains and the Emerald Coast of Florida. She says that “each beautiful piece is designed to bring the wearer joy, confidence and inspiration!” And there’s never been a better time to

add a touch of Southern charm to your home or shop for an elevated, artful gift that will always be appreciated.

August 25-27: Southern Bungalow: A home that any Southerner would appreciate is filled with the luxuriant scents of candles from Southern Bungalow. The carefully curated and inspired-by-nature candles are infused with essential oils, and come in a variety of scents, including Beach House, Coastal Citrus, and Magnolia Blossom. Hand-poured in gorgeous reusable statement piece containers, they burn an organic and clean coconut wax.

There’s always something new happening in the world of design at Acorns. , Visit acornshighlandsnc.com to learn more about these and future happenings

by Marlene Osteen

Ferns and Fashion

Fern of Highlands Boutique, located at 255 Spring Street in Highlands, offers a fresh new perspective on Living the Good Life.

BrookeWilson

What’s that adorable new business at 255 Spring Street that draws your eye and beckons you in with its beautiful wide, welcoming porch covered in ferns?

It’s none other than Fern of Highlands Boutique, Highlands’ hippest and bestsmelling new shop owned by best friends Brooke Wilson and Samantha Perkins. We’ve already mentioned the welcoming front porch bedecked with ferns, but Brook tells us that the name and look of the business is a sentimental and fitting choice as it’s named after her beloved grandmother, who loved ferns and fashion. Brooke’s dream was to have a boutique and she knew from the beginning that honoring her grandmother would start the business off on just the right foot.

Brooke moved to Highlands in 2020 when she married her husband, Seth Wilson, owner of Essential Power, and she loves her new home and family

which includes two wonderful children, Ashlynn and Wyatt, and four dogs, two Labs and two German Shorthaired Pointers. This family makes the most of an active mountain lifestyle and the energy carries over to the boutique.

Seth built the Fern of Highlands Boutique building so Brooke and Seth were able to personalize the space of her dreams. Feel free to have a discussion with her about all the unique design features as it is a deserved source of pride.

Dreamy it is, but this charming little boutique isn’t all about looks, it smells heavenly, too. Her selection of candles; perfumes; lotions; potions; loofahs infused with soaps designed to soothe or invigorate, whichever your mood; facial masks; and shampoos are carefully chosen and delight to the senses and enhance your well-being. She also carries a great line of all-natural, non-toxic cleaning supplies.

Once you’ve moved past those little treasures, and trust us that will take a while, it’s time to move on to the rest of the store. It’s filled with beautiful ladies’ clothing including on-trend denim looks, shorts, casual dresses, a necessity in this summer heat; swimwear; loungewear; a bit of lingerie; shoes; boots; purses; slippers; jewelry; hats, and t-shirts. Of course, there’s more and we’ll categorize it as the fun stuff- puzzles, key rings, wristlets, comfy throws and blankets, mugs, and Beach Babe items and drinkware.

Whether you’re shopping for something for yourself or you’re looking for that perfect gift, do yourself a favor and stop by Fern of Highlands.

And take a minute to enjoy the cool and peace of that beautiful porch. You’ll be glad you did.

by Mary Jane McCall

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Keepsakes of Toxaway

Owner John Nichols reached back into history to make Grand Olde Station a memorable dining destination – 502 Blue Ridge Road on the edge of Lake Toxaway.

LefttoRight: OwnerJohnNichols andChefJoshPayne

Grand Olde Station, sitting just 15 feet from the shores of historic Lake Toxaway at 502 Blue Ridge Road, is the place to go for fabulous food, fun, and history.

Occupying Lake Toxaway’s former train depot, this restored historical gem is as naturally inviting as the lake itself. People are drawn like moths to a flame, and they’re never disappointed with the food, service or experience. It’s the kind of place you find yourself lingering a bit longer over your meal, not wanting the fun to end. Inside this carefully restored restaurant, owner John Nichols has transformed the interior into a museum of sorts showcasing keepsakes from the historic Toxaway Inn, the grand old dame that served as a summer resort for America’s elite from 1903 until 1916.

Alongside those historic artifacts you’ll find plenty of other relics from bygone eras as the walls are adorned with antique pictures, surveys and maps, as well as

lake related artifacts such as historic boat motors and water skis. Majestic taxidermy animals native to the area oversee the dining room.

The summer months are perfect for outdoor dining, enjoying the lake view and breeze while relaxing with friends and family. History is captured here too as a historic train caboose sits alongside a restored 1941 fire truck and wooden Chris Craft boats, reminding us of an earlier era and the need to settle in, take a deep breath, relish our surroundings, and really enjoy the delicious food and drink to come. Friendly service is the hallmark here and from the welcoming hello, attentive service, and menu recommendations to the last goodbye you’ll enjoy a taste of what makes this place so special-the sense of community that runs deep. You’re family here and like any good family gathering you’ll find yourself visiting again and again.

Never one to rest on their laurels and

always looking for new ways to capture a sense of community, they also offer a lot of activities for their customers to enjoy – sip and paint events, weekend outdoor movies on a big screen, and “Sunday Night Stories,” a new series of dinner and historical entertainment events co-sponsored with the Historic Toxaway Foundation. The Historic Toxaway Foundation preserves our past, prepares for the future, and promotes our community.

Which brings us to the food, good Southern deliciously prepared foods, often sourced locally and paying homage to the best of the mountains – mountain trout, barbecue, fried green tomatoes, delicious sides, and extensive casual menu offerings such as burgers, pizzas, sandwiches and soups. All that and homemade desserts, an extensive wine list, craft beers, and top shelf liquors and you’ve found your neighborhood gathering place

by Mary Jane McCall

Gathering Place

Friday nights are jumping when Lake Toxaway Community Center stages its shake-the-rafters Lake Toxaway Dinner and Music celebrations.

Every community in Transylvania County has a Community Center but it’s no secret that one of the largest and most active is the Lake Toxaway Community Center at 81 Slick Fisher Road.

This Community Center serves as an anchor and gathering place for locals, seasonal residents, and visitors, and among the most popular events they host is Lake Toxaway Dinner & Music, held on Friday nights through October. This wildly popular event brings the community together for a home-cooked meal, live bluegrass or country music by local bands, usually from the area or upstate South Carolina, dancing, and a good time. Dinner is served from 6:00 until 7:00 P.M. and your meal includes dinner, dessert, and drink, all for the bargain price of $13 for adults, $6 for children 12 and under, and children under 3 eat free. Music is from 7:00 until 9:30 P.M. If this writer might add a personal note,

I often work at Highlands Historical Society, and on more than one occasion when chatting with visitors from the Cashiers or Lake Toxaway area I’ve had them mention these dinners. They wax poetic about how entertaining they are, how good the meal is, and how they foster a sense of community and belonging. It’s no wonder since it is the community that comes together and volunteers to make these Friday nights happen. They wouldn’t devote their time so willingly if it weren’t a labor of love. You’ll also have a chance to buy a raffle ticket for a homemade quilt or make an additional donation to support the Community Center if you wish.

Volunteer Deb McConaghy says the Center hums with activity throughout the week, not just on Friday nights. Their walking track is their most used facility and they have a playground for children. Additionally, their buildings are available for rent for community events

such as fundraisers, raffles, bingo, family gatherings, and reunions. A local quilting group meets here as does a home-schooling group. It is the heart of the community.

Another great way to support the Community Center is to shop at their Bargain Barn, which is open on Friday nights from 5:00 to 9:00 P.M. and on Saturday mornings from 9:00 A.M. to noon. You’ll find all sorts of items for your home here including furniture lamps, rugs, mirrors, accessories, and more. They also welcome your donations. The Lake Toxaway Community Center embodies community so join them for dinner on Friday nights. It’s good, wholesome fun for all ages. For more info and the current week’s menu check out their website toxawaycc.com, check their Facebook page or email them at ltcommunitycenter@gmail.com.

by Mary Jane McCall

Panthertown Clean Up

Panthertown could use a little friendly effort to restore it to its pristine glory. Everyone’s invited to pitch in for Clean-up Days, August 1 and 19.

Mark your calendar for Tuesday, August 1, and Saturday, August 19. Panthertown welcomes you both days, and any day you have to spare. In fact, every month Friends of Panthertown host trail workdays on the first Tuesday and third Saturday. The crew needs your glow (aka sweat), your genius, and your smashing good looks. And should you have an entourage of paparazzi, do bring them. Notoriety never hurts.

Get ready for Clean-up Days. Pull on your boots. Slide your noggin’ into your neck-flap hat. Slather some zinc on your nose so your sunglasses can get all smeary and slippery (kidding). Stash snacks and a water-bottle in the pockets of your long, protective pants. Important safety tips: bring epi pen if needed and learn what poison ivy looks like. Grab a camera (don’t count on those unreliable paparazzi) so you can document the day. To keep your camera

and phone dry, bring some rain gear. Grab other stuff as needed.

Congrats. You’re now ready for a bodacious, bucket-list, Panthertown kind of day.

After all that prep, here’s the important part, the hours: 9:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. If your fingers don’t feel right unless they are hunting and pecking all over a keyboard, visit panthertown.org and sign up for the mailing list. Panthertown updates, events, trail workdays and much more will be right there at those eager fingertips.

Executive Director Jason Kimenker says, “Almost every month we host trail workdays on the first Tuesday and third Saturday. Visit panthertown.org/ volunteer/ for more info about what to expect when volunteering; panthertown. org/events/ will show you other upcoming programs and events.”

What’s in it for you? Start with burning

off the snack calories plus a few more, while meeting-up with old friends, making some new ones, getting dazzled by Mother Nature, and helping tip the environmental-balance toward pristine in a world of eco-sinners (those wascally wabbits who litter or abuse the land). Spend a few hours un-doing and re-doing the trails while being an amazing example to your kids and peers. Mother Nature could use some good press these days.

There’re scores of ways in which you can make changes in the world through Panthertown possibilities. Get on board and learn how: friends@panthertown. org; (828) 269-HIKE (4453).

After reconsideration, leave those pesky paparazzi up the river. Let’s stick only with the Valley, dedicated nature lovers, and a very welcomed you.

by Donna Rhodes

HISTORY Pages 178-183

photo by Greg Clarkson

Hearth and History

Beautiful dwellings worthy of royalty are nestled all about the Plateau. But it’s the splendor, charm, history, and craftsmanship of August’s Home of Distinction that sets the standard for ideal mountain retreats.

This splendid property with cabin home, guest house, and gorgeous grounds, right across from the Performing Arts Center, is five minutes from everything required: excellent shopping, Rec Center workouts (and pickleball), contemporary and classic entertainment, restaurants from casual to posh, and front porch and firepit views of iconic Satulah Mountain. Add to that a panorama of Mother Nature’s wonders of the wild. It’s arguably one of the best elevation destinations ever.

Laura Puckett of The Luxury Group and her husband Tom turned this property’s historic cabin into a magnificent restoration, reminiscent of a Joe Webb

masterwork. Laura adds, “(The) renovations (are) expertly executed by a former protégé of Joe Webb himself.”

The Puckett’s have a blood-lineal connection to America’s founding families (Revolutionary War heroes) and thus a marrow-deep fascination for log cabins. It was a matter of ancestral pride to restore this historical gem, and they did so, in aces, right down to decorous hand-hewn touches at every angle, line, and nook you look.

From the cabin, walk across a romantic bridge to a fabulous guest house. Doubling the dwellings has doubled the fun – and possibilities. Owners can live in one and rent the other.

Laura describes the dwellings’ alluring interiors, “The property features five bedrooms, including the three-bedroom log home with all fully-renovated en-suite sleeping quarters. The cabin is connected by a charming covered bridge

to a guest house that features first floor sleeping, a full bathroom, and a second kitchen. The guest house’s second floor is set up as a bunk room with four sleeping cubbies.”

Take one step onto this property, and the essence of Plateau pioneer life will envelope your heart and soul. Gutted and lovingly restored, the cabin is reunited with its Old Highlands historic charm. Both cabin-home and guest house are fully remodeled, top to bottom. Everything is 100 percent, brand-new (2023). All is under warranty and installed with the highest quality standards. The re-build includes roof, custom finishes, electrical, plumbing, appliances, fireplace, three HVAC systems, a Weather Shield wood-clad aluminum insulated window package, prime insulation, security cameras, and more. The cost of upgrades, not including furnishings and custom fixtures, was over $1.2 million. The Puckett’s left

With a splendid restoration and a spare-no-expense commitment to quality, this mountain getaway is steeped in luxury.

no tile unturned.

Take a quick tour through interiors: venture onto the front porch, past beckoning rockers. Note the custom brass double gas entry light fixtures. Enter and turn into the main kitchen featuring an imported Italian 6-burner gas range, custom range hood, and reclaimed barn wood made-to-order cabinet. Notice the built-in dishwasher, oversized farm sink, under-counter microwave, a specially-made Tramp Art style built-in refrigerator, and Supreme white, honed & sealed, 2 ½” thick quartz countertops. Custom-designed, handmade wrought iron hardware adorns the cabinet. Seeded glass provides a display area for fine china.

On your exit to the master bedroom, don’t miss the kitchen’s storage pantry. A master bath featuring an ample walk-in closet, has black granite double bowl sinks, custom pendant lights, and serpent mirrors. They complement the oversized soaking-tub and epic, extra-large shower with custom, handmade imported tile.

The living area has been outfitted with hand hewn beams and another custom Tramp Art-style, built-in picture frame TV, with Gucci Bee-inspired hardware. A unique hand-laid stone fireplace was refitted to provide a roaring, one-touch, gas fire feature. An inviting powder bath allows easy access for guests on the main floor.

We’ve not even gotten to details of the second floor, guest house, and the remainder of your feast-for-the-eyes. This magnificent layout begs for a personal showing. As you consider making your appointment, here are more appetizers for your tempting visual banquet:

• Antler chandeliers

• Outdoor firepit

• Lighting the walkway are outdoor sconces made of antique train lights

• Guesthouse door, once part of a battleship

• Tongue-and-groove ceilings

• Beautiful, textural wood everywhere

• Dramatic black limestone floors

• Strategically-placed laundry for both residences

• Original rustic, hand-hewn white oak

• Re-chinked logs

If of interest, there is an optional turnkey designer furniture package (as shown) which includes many designer pieces including Ralph Lauren, Kelly Wearstler, and more.

When inquiring further, ask about the provenance of the cabin. It once served as storage for Highland Hiker and an antique glass shop. The cabin’s been a dominant landmark on the Plateau. Let it now be yours.

For more information, contact Pat Allen at AllenTate/PatAllenRealtyGroup for a private showing. She may be reached at (828) 200-9179 or

pat.allen@allentate.com.

by Donna Rhodes

The Annual Village Heritage Award

In 1996 a group of individuals met and organized with the purpose to preserve the history of Cashiers. It was also in 1996 that Cashiers Historical Society was formed. During most of the first years of the Society, the membership was dedicated to the preservation of the Zachary-Tolbert House. However, the membership remained focused on 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 began taking a more proactive role in raising awareness for the Valley’s historic buildings and commissioned architectural historians to research and assemble a list of historic sites in Cashiers.

From this research CHS established the annual Village Heritage Award twenty years ago 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. Based on the criteria, residents nominate a property that is an adaptive reuse of an older existing structure and also,

enhances village feel and a sense of community. Additional criteria include that the property has an attractive landscaping using native material and moderate lighting. Nominees must also be located within certain boundaries.

Past recipients beginning in 2003 are Alexander Gardens, the Van Epp House, Viewfinders Building, Mountain Laurel Shops, Zonnie Sheik Cottage, Tommy’s Café, Laurelwood Mountain Inn, Village Green Commons, Cashiers Community Center, Old Cashiers Post Office, Cashiers-Glenville Recreation Center, Dovecote House, Fiddlehead Designs,

Grace Anglican Church, Sashay

Around, Cornucopia, Narcissus, Hotel Cashiers, Whiteside Art Gallery and McKee Properties.

Nominations for the 2023 Village Heritage Award must be submitted in writing. Nominating forms will be available at CHS office or found online at cashiershistoricasociety. org/village-heritageaward beginning Friday, August 4 with nominations due Friday, September 1. Presentation of the Village Heritage Award will be at the annual Preservation Celebration with the date of the event to be announced later.

A final thought:

Dwight Young of the National Trust for Historic Preservation on a visit to Cashiers in 2021 stated “In truth, every area has its own character, which defines its heart. How that community grows and continues to be defined relies on the preservation of its character.”

Knowing the history of an area’s buildings helps generations to see the past. Fortunately, CHS is a group that has an interest in preserving the Cashiers of yesterday and today for tomorrow.

by Sandi Rogers, Cashiers Historical Society

The founding of Cashiers Historical Society is now a matter of, well, history.

Highlands Through The Years

Cynthia

Strain’s evocative new book captures a Highlands that’s quickly slipping into myth and legend.

CynthiaStrain

Farm Stands in Scaly Mountain; Queene Anne’s Lace and Joe Pye Weed in Horse Cove; Shortoff Mountain rising above the paddock and stables in Cold Springs: These are just some of the beautiful, atmospheric images in Cynthia Strain’s “Highlands, North Carolina, Through the Years: A Photographic Journal.”

Whether your family has been here since the 19th century or this is your first visit to the Plateau, you will swoon over this book. Of course, there are also images of Main Street; the country clubs and churches; early settler homes, summer “cottages” and Joe Webb cabins; along with Cynthia’s signature landscapes, waterfalls and wildlife photos.

Here are The Bascom and Helen’s Barn, Satulah and Whiteside Mountains. Cynthia even has an evocative image of the spooky, old, two-story boat house on Cullasaja Drive (finally demolished in 2019,

alas) on Mirror Lake that was the object of many family walks in the 1960s, when we had a house nearby. I still remember the crunch of gravel underfoot and how cool it was even in the summer, thanks to the shade of the trees lining the road—such a relief from hot Florida! And Cynthia has mixed in historic black-and-white historic images taken in the 19th and early 20th centuries. She has been here for more than 40 years, painting, making beautiful custom frames at her Mill Creek Gallery (which was right next to the bookstore in Village Square) after working for her parents Richard and Barbara Strain at their late, great, Bird Barn, which catered to our ornithological needs and also provided the best home-made candy!

Cynthia’s brilliant sister Tracy was my dear friend and the Hudson Librarian in the 1980s. Cynthia has donated her time as a leader or board member to almost

every art or nature related organization around Highlands, whether it’s the Art League or BEAR Task Force, and she founded the Highlands Village Square Art and Craft Show (todays Mountaintop Show). She has an amazing eye for composing just the right shot.

“Highlands Through the Years” is available at several fine stores in town, and Cynthia will be signing copies at Acorns on Saturday, September 23. If you were lucky enough to grab a copy of Cynthia’s gorgeous earlier book “Highlands Through the Seasons”—now almost impossible to find—you’ll know you need to get her latest. Some books make you smart; some books make you sleepy; “Highlands, North Carolina, Through the Years” makes you happy, nostalgic and full of hope. I cannot wait for her next book, on Cashiers!

by

Ferguson,

Stuart

Local Historian, Shakespeare & Company photo by Elizabeth Bryant

LIFESTYLES & WELLNESS

Pages 190-207

photo by Greg Clarkson

We Meet in the Middle

Like the best storybook romances, Leigh and Clay Hartman started out as opposites on, well, everything before falling into one another’s arms.

The love story of Leigh and Clay Hartman is a most surprising tale of the unlikely union of people from opposing worlds, a narrative of a connection formed between individuals as disparate as a fearless sky diver and a meticulous chess player.

Clay Hartman spent his youth in rural Sterling, Colorado – a place where the residents are occupied in farming and ranching. His parents owned a momand-pop motel, and he grew up cleaning rooms, and taking out the trash. At 17 he joined the navy, “to get out of that little town.” He won entry into the ROTC program at Cornell University, graduated with a degree in civil engineering and became a combat pilot.

Leigh Hartman was raised in the upscale community of Hilton Head, South Carolina, where high end resorts attract

affluent visitors. Her father, a medical technologist, ran the clinical lab at the hospital where her mother also worked. After high school, Leigh stayed close to home and family, graduating from Stetson University in Central Florida with a degree in business economics.

In June 1995 Clay was stationed on Whidbey Island Naval Base, Washington, training for combat bombing and in the process of unraveling a marriage. He was “absolutely not looking for romance.” He described himself, as a “hair on fire, knuckle dragging naval aviator.”

At the same time, Leigh was living in Charleston, working for Arthur D. Little as a project management consultant for the US Navy. She thought of herself then as now, as a safety-first kind of girl. “Left to my own devices, I would

be a wallflower.”

Thinking that it would be funny to witness what would surely be akin to two shooting stars colliding, one of Leigh’s co-workers (married to a friend of Clay’s) had suggested bringing them together for dinner.

Yet fate has a funny way of defying logic. Instead of friction there was magnetism. “We just clicked,” Clay said. “She’s a sweet, sophisticated, Southern belle with a beautiful smile. What guy can’t be happy about that?”

Though Leigh observed that “Clay was not lacking in confidence,” she also remembers laughing a lot that first night, and that he could dance like John Travolta. “Our friends thought we would agree on nothing; but the way it turned out, I calmed him down and he

LeighandClayHartman

livened me up.”

They talked for three hours on their second date the next night at the Pineapple Fountain in Charleston’s Waterfront Park. The relationship gained momentum, and they made plans for Leigh to visit Clay in Washington in August.

It was grand tour of the Northwest, hiking, winery visits, a high-speed ferry ride to Victoria, British Columbia, a seaplane to Roche Harbor, and dancing at a Naval gala event.

After the whirlwind escapade, Leigh went back to Charleston. On Thanksgiving, she returned to Whidbey Island one last time before Clay deployed on a combat cruise. For six months, Leigh wrote, sent care packages, and cassette tapes. In Thailand, Clay bought Leigh silk and sapphires. He hoped the stones would one day become part of her engagement ring.

When the tour ended in June 1996, she

met him on fly-in. They spent a week together, by the end of which Clay remembers, “the relationship train was pulled out and I told her ‘I love you.’”

In July, Clay flew to Charleston and met Leigh’s family and her boss. Knowing that he might lose her to the Navy, Leigh’s boss offered her a full-time travel position. She was now able to see Clay every weekend.

Clay was transferred to Kingsville, Texas, as a flight instructor in 1997, and Leigh moved her belongings into his house. In Charleston, he found a jeweler who could make the ring he designed with the Thai sapphires and a diamond he had selected.

On May 24,1997, Clay proposed at the Pineapple Fountain.

They were married on May 1, 1999, in Charleston at the Old St Andrews Episcopal Church. In 2003 Clay was transferred to Norfolk and their son Luke was born in October 2004.

Clay retired from the Navy in 2005. Leigh retired from Bank of America in 2015 and the family moved to Highlands. She said that “My husband and son wanted to live in a small town. They didn’t love living in a big city and Highlands was the one place we could all agree on.”

The following year, in 2019, the 20th anniversary of their marriage, they purchased Calders on Main Street.

Clay confirms that “We really are opposites. She’s an introvert, and I have for years lived on adrenaline. Her family is the quiets, and mine is the louds.”

-As Leigh says, “I straighten out his curves. Without him, I would be boring. Without me, he would be chaos. We meet in the middle.”

by Marlene Osteen

A Healthy & Happy Life

Spring Forest Qigong is a modern twist on a traditional practice.

Mary Abranyi is a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the owner of Cashiers Valley Fusion and Bungalow Boutique where she offers a variety of classes, services and products for mind, body, and home including yoga, reiki, journaling, sound healing, movement for Parkinson’s classes, halo therapy salt room, full-spectrum infrared sauna, massage, and skin care.

Spring Forest Qigong is a revolutionary and modernized form of traditional Qigong that has been highly effective in healing.

It’s based on the belief that living a healthy and happy life is something that should be experienced by everyone, and that the moment you choose to move your energy, your transformation into a better life begins.

Qigong, pronounced “chi gong” or “chee-gung,” was developed in China thousands of years ago as one of several parts of traditional Chinese medicine. It involves using exercises to optimize energy within the body, mind, and spirit, with the goal of improving and maintaining health and well-being.

The word “Qigong” is the union of two words. The first being Qi, which translates to life force, vital energy or subtle breath. The second being gong, which translates to skill or work cultivated through steady practice.

In Chinese philosophy the Five Elements of Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water are the five basic aspects of Qi, or life energy. These five elements are interconnected and interdependent. The harmonious balance of the five elements are key components of a healthy life.

Like all forms of energy (Qi), the energy of the five elements is constantly in the process of transformation. The energy of each element is more prominent or less prominent in seasonal and daily cycles and each element is also more strongly connected with specific organs and energy channels in the body. Although people and cultures have evolved over time, the practice has maintained its integrity and availability to heal and transform. Qigong has been studied for years and is known to significantly improve symptoms of fatigue and sleep quality, and has positive effects on anxiety, stress, depressive symptoms, and overall quality of life. Studies have

also reported a reduction in chronic pain for many practitioners.

This beautiful practice can be experienced locally with Andy Owings at Cashiers Valley Fusion Yoga & Wellness. His classes use simple and highly effective techniques of meditation, movement, and breathing patterns to promote the flow of life energy (Qi). With Spring Forest Qigong, you can spend less time and achieve more. Visualization, breathing, movement, and sound are all core components of Spring Forest Qigong (SFQ). More information at CashiersValleyFusion.com.

by Mary Abranyi

Scan to learn more.

Truth and Inspiration

Life Coach (and Laurel contributor) Donna Clements brings a message of hope and healing to Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library on August 25. For more information, visit fontanalib.org or visit donnaclements.com.

DonnaClements

In an age of instant information, when libraries have turned whole rooms into computer stations, it’s reassuring to see patrons conversing with their neighbors, sharing ideas and resources. Such was the case in June at the Cashiers Community Library when Branch Librarian Serenity Richards hosted a presentation by Trauma-Informed Certified Life Coach Donna Clements. Richards sees her mission as “engaging with the community and trying to make sure our citizenry has what it needs.”

Clements talks about big subjects, things a lot of us avoid talking about like grief, depression, and shame. With brutal honesty, she talks about her struggles and rising above them.

Growing up in Virginia, she says that she “always knew something was wrong.”

In the spring of 2018, a solo spiritual sojourn to Israel, visiting friends living near Gaza, set her on a new course. It

was the time of the Israel-Palestinian conflict and air strikes. The lingering trauma of being that close to the violence of the bombings moved her to a new realization. Because of that experience, she understood that as a child she had experienced parental betrayal.

Clements has always been someone others turn to for guidance and advice. Now, she decided to use her own life struggles to help others through life coaching.

“I had looked into life coaching before, but I thought I hadn’t suffered enough,” she told me. “When I moved to Highlands, I realized I had to do something good with this.”

She discovered the “trails in every direction” surrounding her house and began trekking. She completed a course in trauma-informed life coaching and became certified in the field. In combining her training with hiking, she says that she is “using what I have at my fingertips – nature – to help people find themselves

and determine where they are going.”

While on the trail, Clements listens attentively to her clients, allowing them to share their feelings openly. She’s learned that talking about it is a large part of the solution. As a trauma-informed coach, she is asking her clients how to help.

“Sometimes just asking a simple question, like ‘How so?’ opens a floodgate.”

On August 25 at 2:00 P.M., Clements will give a presentation at the Cashiers Library on “The Waterfall Effect of Human Behavior,” on how fundamental human behaviors affect your life and how you can use that knowledge to better your life and better your mental health.

Attendees are advised to show up 10 to 15 minutes before the session to get a seat. You’ll find details at Fontanalib. org, calling (252) 326-9194, or by visiting donnaclements.com.

Donna also meets with clients off the trails virtually by Zoom, face-to-face sessions and telephone.

Visit Like a Local

The Vineyard at High Holly

The Vineyard at High Holly is a charming throwback to the best Plateau traditions –hospitality and an invitation to de-stress.

Back when the Plateau began to be noticed by the outside world – when the landed gentry began to view the Cashiers Valley as an unspoiled retreat from the heat and chaos of Reconstruction South Carolina, and Kelsey and Hutchinson hatched their scheme to turn “the Highlands” into a commercial and agricultural hub, and Mr. Woodruff and his Coca-Cola execs viewed this corner of the Southern Appalachians as a dandy retreat from the crucible of corporate battle – everyone, everyone, made it their mission to spread the word that there was magic here on the Plateau, a respite from the heat and overcrowding and accelerating pace of modern life.

Here in the 21st century, Lesley and Eric Galloway (and her parents, Jim and Connie Mercer, who pitch in whenever needed) have taken up the cause and opened an expansive retreat on the edge of Scaly Mountain, just up from Sky Valley – The Vineyard at High Holly. Tricia and I arrived in the midst of a hectic summer marked by clinic complications and the labors large and small that come attached to this small-town publication with big, big ambitions.

In fact, I was a little reluctant to take this “assignment,” set during layout and polishing and pleading.

But The Vineyard at High Holly began working its magic immediately upon

arrival – a rolling vineyard; vistas of ridges in shades of emerald, edging into blues and purples, and a landscape dotted with charming cabins, a farmhouse looking like it was lifted from Amboise in the Loire Valley, and a restored 1890 cottage. What an invitation to allow the weeks to slip from our shoulders!

It became even more beguiling when we checked in and met The Galloways. Their arrival on the Plateau was clearly a choice born of love, and their enthusiasm for the place was infectious, and hearkened back to an earlier time, when Kelsey and Hutchinson were first sending out their fliers.

Let me explain – decades ago I worked for Pat and Rip Benton, who owned the Old Edwards Inn and Highlands Inn. Pat and Rip made it a point to mingle with their guests and provide friendly advice about the ways of the community and its sometimes-hidden wonders. It was concierge service delivered with smalltown charm and it’s a vanishingly small commodity in this unsettled age.

That brings us to the Galloways, who’re quickly proving to be generous players in the community – witness their hosting of the Literacy & Learning Center’s soiree and the Appalachian Animal Rescue Center’s fundraiser.

They’re breathing exciting new life into the property and their confidence has allowed them to undertake the most perilous of chores – offering complete wedding services.

“I love working with couples and wedding planners,” says Lesley. “We can get as involved as they wish, and I’m quick to involve local caterers and florists and planners whenever the couples request their services. We have so much talent right here, it just makes sense.”

But let’s get back to our overnight stay!

We were introduced to our cottage, tricked out with two king bedrooms and a sleeper sofa, a pair of bathrooms and a complete kitchenette.

It was done up with what’s now classed as Mountain Chic, conjured and executed by Stephanie Bramble and her Dutchman’s Designs team. Clean and comfortable and so inviting.

That calming effect was enhanced by the deck and its spectacular vista. It’s no exaggeration that I could have happily spent the night out there, under a light

blanket (while the entire South was broiling under unprecedented heat, even in the evening).

Well, I’ve once more exceeded my word count. I don’t have room to elucidate, but let me simply throw out some words –you can ask me about them when you see me: That absolutely enchanting vineyard; The fire pits scattered across the property inviting both lively conversation and quiet contemplation; hiking trails that beg to be explored; and eight-year-old Elliot, spending his summer helping his parents and shining like a new dime.

These are all qualities that make The Vineyard at High Holly unique and simply irresistible to those looking for an escape or interlude or looking to start a new life together.

by Luke Osteen

Time for Check-ups

It’s that time of year again when parents and children gear up for the back-to-school season. Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation reminds you that as you prepare your child for another year of learning, it’s important to remember to schedule a back-to-school “well-child” health checkup. This checkup can help ensure that your child is healthy and ready to tackle the school year ahead.

During a well-child checkup, your child’s doctor will perform a physical exam to check for any signs of illness or underlying health conditions. They may also ask questions about your child’s overall health and well-being, including their diet, exercise habits, and medications.

A critical aspect of a well-child checkup is ensuring that your child is up to date on all their vaccines. Vaccines are an essential tool in preventing the spread of infectious diseases, and they are especially significant in a school setting where children are in close contact with one another.

In North Carolina, children are only allowed to attend a childcare facility or school (whether public, private, or religious) if they have received all immunizations appropriate for their age. Vaccination records are checked when they enter a childcare facility, kindergarten, seventh and twelfth grade, and when they enter a college or university.

It’s important to talk to your child’s doctor about their vaccine needs and to ensure they are up to date before the start of the school year.

In addition to vaccines, there are other steps you can take to help keep your child healthy during the school year. Encouraging regular handwashing, getting enough sleep, and eating a healthy diet can all help boost your child’s immune system and prevent the spread of illness.

It’s also important to talk to your child about the importance of hygiene and staying home when they are sick. By teaching your child good health habits, you can help prevent the spread of illness and keep your child healthy throughout

the school year.

The Health Foundation believes a backto-school health checkup is an essential step in ensuring that your child is healthy and ready to learn. By making sure your child is up to date on their vaccines and following good health habits, you can help keep them healthy and happy throughout the school year. So schedule that checkup today and give your child the gift of good health!

Blue Ridge Health-Highlands Cashiers offers a full range of vaccinations, immunizations, and well-child services by appointment. These services include well-child appointments for established and new patients, as well as vaccinationonly appointments. Most of these appointments can be completed within an hour, with some completed in as quickly as fifteen minutes. For more information or to make an appointment with Blue Ridge Health-Highlands Cashiers, please call (828) 482-6160.

by Josh Bryson, Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation

With the 2023-24 school season right around the corner, a well-child checkup is an investment in a healthy year of learning.

Preserve the Curves Dr.SueAery

Love those curves! Preserving the curves is a fun health goal that everyone can get behind.

Our curves are very important to spinal health as well as overall health and function.

We have three distinct curves in our spine, one primary and two secondary curves. The primary thoracic curve was given to us at birth. The secondary cervical and lumbar curves are developed as we grow, and we learn to crawl and walk. These curves blend into one long “spring-like” formation called the spine, which is made up of distinct vertebrae, each representative of its area of the spine. In a perfect world, these curves work together to take the weight of our head (8-12 pounds on average) and the gravitational forces that we deal with every day through various actions.

Over time, these curves can become altered by forces, habits and aging. The cushions between the vertebral bones are called discs and are designed to take on much of the weight and forces of daily life.

Preservation of our curves and the hydration and health of our discs are all dependent upon good knowledge and healthy daily habits.

For example, athletes’ spines withstand immense forces on a daily basis. But those who are more sedentary can experience damaging spinal “forces” as well. Movement is essential for healthy bones and joints, including the three curves of the spine.

The best way to preserve our curves is to understand how they work and how they are designed.

First, the cervical (neck) curve is what we call a lordotic curve. This is mirrored by the lumbar (low back) curve. The third and primary curve, the thoracic (chest area) spine lives between the cervical and lumbar curves.

This is considered a kyphotic curve or curved toward the back of the body. Each region has distinct features of the vertebrae. The cervical segments

are smaller and designed for intricate movements, including side bending, rotation and a combination of both. The thoracic curve, which houses the ribs and their connections, is much more vertical in design and very sturdy. This region has a lot to protect as it encloses most of the vital organs, including the heart, lungs, stomach, pancreas, spleen, liver and kidneys.

The lumbar spine takes most of the larger forces, being the connection between the spine and the legs. Each lumbar segment is very large and durable, with heftier discs to absorb more heavy loads. It is also very stable to take on the larger movements of the body. The “spring” effect is important to absorb the loads of daily life, acting more like a spring with every movement.

by Dr. Sue Aery, Aery Chiropractic & Acupuncture

The Incredible Battersea Tracy

Beloved Battersea Tracy, who brought unbridled joy to the residents and friends of Carpe Diem Farms, is finally at peace.

It is with a very heavy heart that I share with you the final entry in life story of Battersea Tracy, the incredible Morgan mare. She was laid to rest, Saturday, July 1, in our St. Francis Cemetery joining her 14 herd members who have predeceased her. In my mind’s eye I see her running in the clover fields of heaven, kicking, and bucking with all her friends and making new ones. She joins her brother Battersea KnightStar and aunt Battersea Bess. Her bestie on the farm, Promise, is by her side, and she finally gets to meet her mom who died giving birth to her, June 3, 2003. She is in joyful bliss.

Tracy arrived on the farm, March 6, 2006, a sassy, inquisitive, bigger than life personality. I had lost both Charlie Brown and Graceful Command (aka Gracie) in December 2005. My personal sorrow and the shroud of sadness surrounding the farm brought me to the internet in search of another Morgan, one who needed us as much as we needed them to bring joy

back to the farm. I discovered East-West Morgans in Blairsville, Georgia. They were helping the Battersea Stud breeders, Carlton Huhn and Frank Calhoun sell some of their young stock and had just brought eight yearlings from Virginia to Blairsville. I made an appointment and off I went. It was a fateful day, one that changed my life and that of the farm for the next eighteen and a half years.

Because Tracy was imprinted on humans first and raised by Carl and Frank on the screened porch of her house for her first three months, she thought herself to be human! Upon arrival at CDF, she would stand at a gate staring at my deck “asking” to move in with me! She became a beacon of joy and excitement, helping to create the bright future we have experienced. She helped me put on demonstrations, had many a child on her back at Gar’s Kids Camps, and showed many how to interact safely with the 1,100-pound horse she grew up to be. She demonstrated the humanhorse connection, touching hearts with

everyone she met.

These last four years and seven months of her life, three major hoof surgeries, and a tenotomy have made her my greatest teacher. Every day she greeted me and all her caregivers with anticipation and eager wonder at what we might come up with next to allow her to be out playing in the field with her friends. Because of her we have developed a variety of devices, methods, and protocols that we will share with veterinarians, owners, and farriers around the globe. Her gifts to others will live on.

Several suggested we put her down, before we began and throughout the journey. I promised her from the beginning that the day she “said” she was complete I would honor her request. She made her request when I went down to tuck her in Friday night. Our time together was complete. Her huge presence will be missed always. Namaste my faithful friend.

by Sue Blair, Carpe-Diem Farms

Should downsizeyou when you retire?

When you retire, you’ll experience many changes — should one of them involve your living arrangements?

The issue of downsizing is one that many retirees will consider. If you have children, and they’ve grown and left the home, you might find yourself with more space than you really need. Of course, this doesn’t necessarily mean you must pack up and scale down yourself. You might love your home and neighborhood and see no reason to go. But if you’re open to a change, you could find that moving to a smaller house, a condo or an apartment may make sense for you. Let’s consider some of the advantages of downsizing:

• You could save money. Moving to a smaller space could lower your utility bills and upkeep costs.

• You could save effort. A smaller home will mean less maintenance

and cleaning.

• You could de-clutter. Over the years, most of us accumulate more possessions than we really need. Downsizing gives you a chance to de-clutter. And you can do some good along the way, too, because many charitable organizations will welcome some of your items.

• You could make money. If you’ve had your home for many years, it’s certainly possible that it’s worth more — perhaps a great deal more — than what you paid for it. So, when you sell it, you could pocket a lot of money — possibly without being taxed on the gains. Generally, if you’ve lived in your home for at least two years in the five-year period before you sold it, you can exclude $250,000 of capital gains, if you’re single, or $500,000 if you’re married and file taxes jointly. (You’ll want to consult with your tax advisor, though, before selling your home, to ensure you’re eligible for the exclusion, especially if you do

own multiple homes. Issues can arise in connection with determining one’s “primary” residence.)

While downsizing does offer some potentially big benefits, it can also entail some drawbacks.

First of all, it’s possible that your home might not be worth as much as you had hoped, which means you won’t clear as much money from the sale as you anticipated. Also, If you still were paying off a mortgage on your bigger home, you may have been deducting the interest payments on your taxes — a deduction that might be reduced or lost to you if you purchase a less-expensive condo or become a renter.

Besides these financial factors, there’s the ordinary hassle of packing and moving. And if you’re going to a much smaller living space, you may not have much room for family members who want to visit or occasionally spend the night.

So, as you can see, you’ll need to weigh a variety of financial, practical and emotional issues when deciding whether to downsize. And you will also want to communicate your thoughts to grown children or other family members who may someday have reason to be involved in your living space. In short, it’s a big decision — so give it the attention it deserves.

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

Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

Todd Holder

In The Name of Adventure

Laura and Alastair

Lamont’s enduring mission is to share the magic and mystery that’s Africa. For more information about enjoying a faraway adventure, or one right here on the Plateau, visit africaawaits.com.

Alastairand LauraLamont

Laura and Alastair Lamont’s lives are an adventure, and the couple’s life’s work is to share adventures with others. Due to Alastair’s more than 15 years of experience working in and exploring such areas as Namibia, Tanzania, and throughout the South African bush, he founded Africa Awaits and he and his wife plan personalized custom safaris.

In fact, his background as an owner, manager, ranger, and guide associated with luxury accommodations in various African regions is what led the South African native to want to share Africa with others in the United States. He and Laura, a native Atlantan-turnedHighlander, met during her Peace Corps service in South Africa.

Laura shared what has been happening of late with Africa Awaits: “Alastair and I spent three weeks in South Africa and Kenya in March, exploring new properties and experiences that are truly fabulous. Plus, we are establishing an

office in Cashiers (the building behind Bucks Coffee Café), which will allow us to display our collected historic and new African artifacts and safari souvenirs. And it will be a great place to host clients for meetings, wine tastings, etc. The office opened in late July.”

But the Lamonts do not just seek adventure for themselves and others. They provide adventure opportunities in the name of giving back.

For example, recently Africa Awaits donated a Safari Sundowner Experience as an auction item for two summer galas, one to benefit Cashiers Highlands Humane Society and the other to benefit Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School. The Safari Sundowner Experience is one that anyone can enjoy, without getting on a plane and going to Africa.

Laura describes it this way: “During an evening game drive on safari [in Africa], guests enjoy a leisurely stop for a ‘sundowner’ – an African happy

hour where you sit back, cocktail in hand, and watch the sun slip below the horizon. Typically, there are lovely nibbles, a stunning vista, sounds of nature all around, and a humorous story or two told by the guiding team. So, Africa Awaits is creating this experience here on the Plateau. Up to four guests can join us in our vintage 1971 Land Rover as we explore some beautiful curvy roads and stop on a ridgeline to enjoy appetizers and cocktails as the sun sinks into our gorgeous mountain landscape. Amongst natural conversation, laughter, and a popping fire, the evening can be peppered with stories from our seasoned safari guide Alastair, with tales of animal encounters and conservation successes from his time in the African bush.”

For more information about enjoying a nearby – or far away – adventure, visit Africa Awaits at africaawaits.com.

by Deena Bouknight

GIVING BACK

Pages 214-221

photo by Greg Clarkson

32 Years of Serving

For Lora Speed-Beegle, serving her community’s health needs is just what the

Lora Speed-Beegle is a true local, having been born at the old Highlands-Cashiers Hospital and raised in the Shortoff community. She graduated from Highlands School in 1986 and from Western Carolina University in 1990 and immediately went to work for Macon County EMS. It is a job she has committed herself to, from participating in the first paramedic class offered through Southwestern Community College to experiencing more than 32 years of serving the community and saving lives. “The cool part of training was that the county hired the heli-

… This gave us training and life-long friendships.

copter paramedics from MAMA to come and ride with us near the end of school and mentor us, and that allowed us to work in our county as paramedics,” said Speed-Beegle. “This gave us training and life-long friendships.” She is stationed at the Macon County EMS on Hyatt Road in Franklin, and has been for over 20 years; but, for the first 10 years of her emergency medical services career, she was based in Highlands.

Her responsibilities include responding by ambulance to 911 calls; once at the site of an emergency, she must assess a

LoraSpeed-Beegle

patient’s condition and administer emergency medical care. In addition, Speed-Beegle works as a community paramedic, which means paramedics visit residents at home to handle non-emergency needs.

“We work with home health, hospice, and a variety of other programs to help patients maintain their independence,” she says. “The aging population of the county and country has increased and so has the need for more home-based service. The community paramedic program that Macon County has is highly regarded and is setting the bar for other counties in Western North Carolina and beyond.”

Speed-Beegle explained that Macon County EMS has three bases: the Franklin base runs three paramedic level ambulances, while Highlands and Nantahala each run one paramedic level ambulance.

“The Franklin ambulances move to the outlying bases when they have calls to help coverage. Macon County has 40 full-time positions on the full-time roster and a part-time roster that varies. People also need to remember Macon EMS main goal is to provide 911 coverage to the county.”

She has experienced countless challenges in more than three decades, such as trying to reach people in need during blizzards, hurricanes, icy conditions, and heavy rains.

The aging population of the county and country has increased and so has the need for more home-based service.

“I often tell people the stretcher does not have four-wheel drive,” she quipped. In all seriousness, she describes general daily duties: “Restocking and ensuring the ambulance and personnel are ready to face what comes along with the paging out to a call. Keeping up-to-date on protocols and changes and training. We have to keep our truck and the base tidy.”

She shared that the reason she has stuck with a job that is both strenuous and often emotionally taxing is because “helping people is what has always been what my job means to me. Seeing people out on the street after they have had a life-altering event is definitely a highlight and that they remember our brief time together.”

by Deena Bouknight photo by Mary Gillan

New and Improved

A mid-winter disaster brings a summertime renewal at the Peggy Crosby Center.

Just like when life gives you lemons you make lemonade, when unprecedented cold temperatures cause a sprinkler pipe to burst, you remodel your space.

That’s exactly what the Center for Life Enrichment did with their offices and lecture hall in the Peggy Crosby Center. Over the winter, a pipe fitting broke on the upper floor, practically ruining the room that housed it.

Soon the walls of the Peggy Crosby Center became cascading waterfalls, and the deluge found its way through the ceiling tiles, into CLE’s lecture hall and offices, and onto the non-profit’s very expensive audio-visual equipment, chairs, floors, piano – the list goes on and on. When it became apparent that CLE’s insurance would replace the A/V equipment and chairs, and the Peggy Crosby Center could replace the carpet, half of the wall painting, and the window shades, it was clear that a complete interior makeover was the next move.

A silver lining in Peggy Crosby’s own Silver Run Falls, the Center for Life Enrichment’s new lecture hall is now operational and better than ever. Members now enjoy crystal-clear presentations from the organization’s new 85-inch TV screen (so clear in fact, that the blinds can now be left open during programs). Their new audio/visual system – compatible with both Mac and PC computers – allows participants the ability to see and hear speakers all the way from the comfortable new seating in back of the lecture hall.

“Although the water damage was a huge setback at the time, CLE has been so excited to welcome its members back to the new and improved lecture hall experience. It was time for a refresh, and the flood was just the catalyst we needed to bring CLE into modernity,” says CLE Executive Director Fallon Hovis.

by Robert E. Smith, PCC Board Chair

Coming Full Circle

A kind community and the compassionate staff at the Cashiers-Highlands

Humane Society have ensured that brave Axe enjoys his retirement from law enforcement.

AxeandRidgeParris

Seven years ago, members of the Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club took up a collection and raised the money for the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office to acquire a new K-9 puppy in training. In gratitude for Mountaintop’s generosity, the Sheriff’s Office gave the K-9 the name of Axe, the symbol of the local country club.

Axe retired this past January. Many times in his career, this K9 Deputy specializing in drug detection alerted officers to major narcotics seizures, removing bad guys from our streets and made our neighborhoods safer.

Axe was more than just a trained law enforcement officer protecting our community. He was, and is, a beloved member of the family of Investigator Ridge Parris.

Ridge contacted CHHS in May and shared a heartbreaking situation. Axe was at the emergency veterinary hospital. He hadn’t eaten for days and had

lost a tremendous amount of weight. An ultrasound showed a significant intestinal blockage, and immediate surgery was needed to save this heroic dog’s life. Unfortunately, all the emergency medical funds from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, as well as from the Parris family themselves, had been exhausted. Without the surgery, the hospital suggested euthanasia as the only option. But that wasn’t an option to CHHS. Within minutes of getting the plea for help from Investigator Parris, the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society gave the green light for the surgery and paid 100 percent of the bill. Axe completely recovered and is now back to normal as a beloved family member and a respected retired law enforcement officer. The generosity of this community made it possible for Axe to arrive here as a puppy. And coming full circle seven years later, the generosity of this

community saved Axe’s life.

At this year’s Whiskers & Whiskey at Wildcat Cliffs, to honor the service of both brave crime fighters, the CashiersHighlands Humane Society named Ridge and Axe the 2023 CHHS Humane Heroes of the Year.

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. Visit us online at www.chhumanesociety.org or call (828)743-5752 for more information. Tax-deductible donations to support our lifesaving work can be mailed to: CHHS, P.O. Box 638, Cashiers, NC 28717.

by David Stroud,

Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society

photo by Marty Boone

44 Years of Scholars

Powered by a generous church and a community’s commitment to education, the Conkle-Rowe Scholarship has enriched the opportunities of worthy young minds.

PatRowesurroundedbyScholarshipRecipients

In the 44 years since the inception of the Church of the Good Shepherd’s no one thought it would grow to be what it is today.

That includes the 95-year-old co-founder and now chair emeritus, Pat Rowe. The scholarship was started by Henry Conkle in 1979 and reconstituted as the Conkle-Rowe Scholarship after Pat’s twenty-two-year tenure. The scholarship program has helped over 110 scholars realize their two- or four-year college dreams.

This year was very special as Pat celebrated her 95th birthday on June 8, and the scholarship fund turned 44. The Conkle-Rowe Committee and church decided this would be the perfect year to kick off a Founder’s Day Weekend! Over 200 scholars, family guests, donors, and church parishioners celebrated the milestone weekend events in June.

As Pat proclaimed before the festivities, “let’s make sure these celebrations are about the kids, and not about me.”

And so, we did, with just one small candle on the cake for Pat. The Conkle-Rowe Founder’s Day Weekend events were a team effort, and all of the events were self-funded by donors so as not to take away any scholarship money!

Currently, the scholarship fund supports over 30 active scholars from five area high schools attending thirteen different local and regional community colleges and universities. The scholarship’s mission, “Believe In Youth, Invest In Their Future,” was adopted by the church in 2019 as part of the church’s Bazaar Barn and Outreach growth efforts.

by Kevin Rowland

The Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC recently organized an event aimed at tackling the pressing issue of early childhood education in the region. This event featured a presentation by Elizabeth Byrum, Senior Policy Analyst for Early Childhood Education from NC Child. Byrum shed light on the state of early childhood education in North Carolina by covering critical topics like funding sources, successful partnerships, key statistics, and ongoing policy initiatives. The gathering of community leaders, businesses, and childcare providers provided a platform for essential discussions and aimed to foster collaboration in addressing the childcare crisis.

“There’s a need for collective efforts to alleviate the challenges faced in Highlands,” says Kaye McHan, executive director of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC. “The childcare crisis affects us all.”

A snapshot of early education in North Carolina:

• There are 710,000 children in the state age birth to five years old, representing 31.6% of children under 18 years of age.

• 65 percent of children birth to five years of age live in households where both parents work.

• As of May 2023, 225,614 children are

A Need For Collective Efforts

enrolled in childcare programs.

“Early childhood education is about more than school readiness,” says Bynum. “Children who receive highquality childcare go on to graduate high school on time, earn higher wages, live healthier lives, avoid incarceration and raise stronger families.”

Bynum suggested the following next steps for the Highlands Community toward resolving the childcare crisis:

• On-Site Visits and Advocacy: Collaborating with local, county, and state elected officials to arrange on-site visits where providers, teachers, parents, and business leaders can share firsthand experiences. These visits will not only shed light on the challenges present in Highlands but also highlight the transformative potential of prioritizing childcare investment.

• Exploration of “Out of the Box” Solutions: The group should actively engage with interested parties to explore the innovative childcare solutions presented. By connecting with other communities who are successfully implementing these solutions. This exchange of ideas may highlight opportunities for supporting accessible and affordable childcare within the community and at a statewide-policy level.

• Consider Leveraging the Family Forward NC Initiative: This is a program

to improve children’s health and wellbeing and keep North Carolina’s businesses competitive. It is an employer-led change to increase access to researchbased, family-friendly practices — big and small — that improve workplace productivity, recruitment and retention; grow a strong economy; and support children’s healthy development. It could be a valuable resource in assessing micro policy solutions for businesses related to childcare, paid leave, flexible scheduling, and other family-friendly practices. By utilizing the initiative’s insights and guidance, a supportive environment for businesses to resolve the childcare crisis could be fostered.

The Highlands Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Highlands, NC, is hopeful this will serve as a catalyst for action by community leaders, businesses, and childcare providers. By collectively prioritizing accessible and affordable childcare, Highlands can create a nurturing environment that supports the early development and education of all children in need.

(If you’d like to receive a copy of the presentation, please email communications@highlandschamber.org.)

by Johanna Fein, Highlands Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Highlands, NC

Who’s thinking of the kids? The Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC, that’s who. And they have some definite ideas about early childhood education.

LefttoRight:KayeMcHanand ElizabethByrum

Carolina Cruiser

US Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-NC11) pays a call to the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce to meet with Southern Jackson constituents and discuss vital issues.

At the invitation of the Cashiers Area Chamber, US Congressman Chuck Edwards recently set up his “Carolina Cruiser” in their parking lot to conduct mobile office hours for constituent services.

A record turnout of Cashiers Area Chamber board of directors, nonprofit organizational leadership, and other stakeholders welcomed the representative and his district staff who conducted constituent visits.

The congressman discussed issues of concern with local government officials including Jackson County Board of Commissioners Chair Mark Letson, Jackson County Manager Don Adams, Tuckaseigee Water & Sewer Authority Executive Director Daniel Manring, Cashiers Glenville Fire Department Chief Randy Dillard, as well as chamber leadership and staff, Leadership Cashiers

graduates, nonprofit organization executives and volunteers, and others.

In the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Edwards’ work ethic was recognized, and he has the rare honor as a freshman of being selected to sit on three committees: the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, the Budget Committee, and the Committee on Oversight and Government Accountability.

He also serves on six subcommittees: On Oversight, he sits on Cybersecurity, Information Technology and Government Innovation; Economic Growth, Energy Policy and Regulatory Affairs; Government Operations and the Federal Workforce.

On Transportation and Infrastructure, he sits on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management;

Highways and Transit; and Water Resources and Environment.

“We were honored to welcome Representative Edwards to Cashiers,” said Chamber Executive Director Stephanie Edwards. “Our community’s relationship with federal and other elected and appointed officials is important to our quality of life. With Congressman Edwards’ service on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, he is in a valuable position to secure federal dollars for much-needed projects in Western North Carolina, particularly roads and wastewater treatment facilities in the Cashiers Area. We appreciate his interest and commitment to our economic development issues.”

by Luke Osteen

photo by Thomas Taulbee

Live well. Run free.

A private, low-density amenitized community, located on the prestigious 107 South corridor just five minutes from the center Cashiers, NC.

Silver Run Reserve is paradise of natural beauty o ering a variety of amenities for indoor and outdoor fun and wellness, and a range of large estate homesites and built cottages. Call for more details and a tour of this beautiful community.

WELCOME HOME.

828.342.3194

OUR TEAM — OF — EXPERIENCED BROKERS

BETH TOWNSEND Co-Owner / Broker

COLEEN GOTTLOEB Broker-In-Charge

TIM HEATLEY Broker

CLAY CANTLER Broker / Licensed Assistant

KARALINE CANTLER Broker / Administrator

LIZ HARRIS Co-Owner / Broker

ANN MCKEE AUSTIN Co-Owner / Broker

SUSAN HEATLEY Broker

TK HEATLEY Broker

SANDY BARROW Broker

JOHN BARROW Broker / Rental Coordinator

MAGGIE ELMER Broker

JESSICA HOHEISEL Broker / Licensed Assistant

Elevated living

For nearly half a century, McKee Properties has helped define the Cashiers-Highlands Plateau, setting the standard for premier real estate and the area’s luxury mountain lifestyle.

Cashiers

39.18 ACRES A rare opportunity to acquire this premier Cashiers, NC acreage located on the prestigious Highway 107 South corridor, just three minutes from town! Much of the land is nearly level with a creek and stream running through it, and an elevated area offering great homesites with gentle topography and views of Chimneytop Mountain, Rock Mountain, Big Sheepcliff, and others. This property would make a beautiful private estate just minutes from the center of

OFFERED FOR $6,900,000

Cashiers and close to Wade Hampton, High Hampton, and Chattooga Club. Enjoy the excitement of your favorite club and the privacy of your own quiet estate just a couple minutes away. This land also offers excellent commercial, residential or mixed-use development potential with its great location, frontage on Highway 107 South, gentle topography, and views. MLS 101855

Silver Run Reserve

5 BR / 5.5 BA This gorgeous estate is located in Silver Run Reserve, just ve minutes from Cashiers. It features a brand new 5-bedroom home scheduled for completion at the end of 2023. The home is designed by renowned architect TS Adams, with interior design in partnership with the talented McAlpine House, and construction by Harris Custom Homes. The gentle lot boasts incredible views of Whiteside Mountain that sweep through the trees and beyond into the

OFFERED FOR $6,500,000

meadows of Silver Run Reserve. Silver Run Creek ows just below the house providing excellent shing, natural plunge pools, and wading areas for children. This home is within an easy walking distance to all of Silver Run Reserve’s amenities. This estate has it all and is a must see! Please reach out to the listing agent to schedule a tour, or for a detailed information booklet on oor plans and nishes.. MLS 101991

High Hampton

5 BR / 5.5 BA This sophisticated newer home is perched on a generous sized lot overlooking the Cherokee Campground park, and has a Chimneytop Mountain view. The location is ideal—in the heart of High Hampton and on the “original” side of the neighborhood, it is within easy walking distance to the Club and Inn. Approaching the home from the paved circular driveway and slate covered patio, one is greeted

OFFERED FOR $3,650,000

by wood, stone, and cedar shake exterior detailing, a dutch door, and gas lanterns. Many interior walls are painted shiplap, hardwood oors are nished with muted warm gray tones, specialty lighting is featured throughout, and unexpected pops of color punctuate each room. Most furnishings are negotiable and may be purchased separately from the real estate. MLS 101511

Pinnacle Ridge OFFERED FOR $3,225,000

4 BR / 4 BA / 2 HBA Soaring in every way, this beautiful high elevation home presents the nest in mountain living! Majestic, long range views are available from every major room in the house. Located off coveted Cedar Creek Road, gated, elevated Pinnacle Ridge is a quaint enclave of approximately 15 lots, and offers central water system, paved roads and quality driven architectural standards. Paved driveway, mature landscaping and a pretty front porch provide the perfect greeting to this traditional yet current home. The pine paneled living room has soaring ceilings, a stone oor-to-ceiling replace and loads of windows facing the easterly views, with direct access to the large porch. A cased opening leads to kitchen and dining, and the Carolina Room with another oor-

to-ceiling replace. The laundry, powder bath and hallway to the two-car garage are adjacent to the kitchen. The primary is the only bedroom on the main level. It, too, has soaring ceilings, an adjacent home of ce, direct porch access and en suite bath. Upstairs are two generous guest suites and a large tness/game room located over the garage. The lower level offers an additional living room with a replace, movie theatre and the nal guest suite with easy access outdoors. Upgrades such as low maintenance Hardie Board siding, blown insulation, encapsulation, new roof in 2021, new interior paint, and hardwired security cameras make this a great opportunity to purchase a home that will allow you to play instead of work when you are in the mountains!

MLS 102135

Cliffs

5 BR / 6 BA Looking out, and starting from the left, stands Rock Mountain, then Chimney Top, Terrapin, and Whiteside Mountain. Entering the home with its new double-doors with glass panes, step into a lovely foyer, then a sizable great-room with a dining area seating at least 10, oor-to-ceiling stone replace, and a wall of windows facing the view. To the left is a large kitchen and keeping room with plenty of comfortable seating. Just off the kitchen is the rst of two laundry rooms

and a charming den/library. Also on the rst oor is the lovely primary bedroom with replace and an en suite bath with the gorgeous mountain view and doors out to the deck and covered porch. In addition, there is a guest bedroom on the main oor with en suite bath. Downstairs is a spacious den with wood-burning replace and three bedrooms. The home is located in the charming and welcoming neighborhood of Continental Cliffs and is a short distance to the Crossroads of Cashiers. MLS 102229

Cullasaja Club OFFERED FOR $2,500,000

4 BR / 5.5 BA This beautiful mountain home located within the gated community of Cullasaja Club and only a short drive from the entrance, boasts 4 bedrooms, 5 full baths and one half bath. The master bedroom, on the main level boasts his and her baths. Nearby is a lovely, spacious of ce with lots of light from outdoors. His and her closets and a laundry room nearby with new washer and dryer. In addition to the of ce, there is a handsome library with ample book shelves and large TV.

The kitchen boasts gas range, many built-ins, a spacious pantry, and a lovely breakfast room with sunlit windows and doors out onto the deck. The home has a 2-car garage, readily accessible from the main oor. Upstairs is one bedroom with an en suite bath, and downstairs is a large, beautiful area with spacious den with replace, two bedrooms and two baths. There is also access to a single garage for the golf cart. Walking outside from this area takes you right to the golf course! MLS 101675 SANDY

Wade Hampton Golf Club

4 BR / 4.5 BA Located within the prestigious Wade Hampton Golf Club, this home boasts long range mountain views, golf course views and is a 5-minute drive to the center of Cashiers. The home features a total of 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths between the main house and carriage house, and 2 bonus rooms within the main house. The main house has a owing oor plan from the vaulted great room with a stone replace to the cozy dining room and kitchen featuring a second replace. A large

OFFERED FOR $2,400,000

primary suite with two walk-in closets and private porch is located on the main level. Upstairs, you will nd a guest en-suite and two bonus rooms. A large, covered porch off the great room with a continuing side porch allow you to enjoy the private setting of this home and take in the views of your mountain getaway! The carriage house located above the connected two-car carport features two additional guest en-suites and small wet bar. MLS 102267

High Hampton

3 BR / 3 BA This classic High Hampton cottage was completely renovated in 2021 and updated to include today’s amenities while keeping the charm of its past. Featuring ample entertaining spaces inside and out, the great room opens onto a spacious stone terrace and the dining room opens onto a covered sitting porch looking toward the golf course on the 1st hole green. The cottage boasts two beautiful stone replaces, one in the keeping room off the kitchen and breakfast area

as well as the other in the large great room. The master bedroom has a walk-in closet and en suite bath with separate tub and shower. Two guest rooms share an updated bathroom. A bunkroom and additional bathroom are at the other end of the house and make a nice space for kids to play and sleep. The home is in a great location within a short walk to the High Hampton amenities! MLS 101616

Whisper Lake

3 BR / 3.5 BA This stunning property gently presides over a quiet pristine mountain lake and has a lovely long-range view of Hogback Mountain. The double lot provides privacy yet is in the midst of a vibrant and fun-loving community. As with a notable wine, this home has several “ avors” that create its unique style—Arts and Crafts, California contemporary, and luxury ocean liner, too! The home is well built and maintained, nished with ne materials, and a pleasure to behold. Entering the house draws one into the great room with beautiful cherry oors, soaring ceilings with specialty beams and wood-burning replace with raised hearth. Large oor-to-ceiling windows afford expansive lake views and lots of natural light. Above, a fantastic home of ce with balcony is accessed by a double helix stairway. The great room has access to the covered porch with replace, pass through windows to the

kitchen, and phantom screens. The porch connects to additional decking and accesses the art studio which would also make a ne sunroom. The master bedroom has a makeup niche, lounging nook (by the big lake view windows), double vanities, tub and shower. The open kitchen has views to both the front yard and lake. It has an island, tile oors, granite countertops, two sinks, specialty cabinetry, and induction cooktop. The pantry has its own windows, as does the large laundry. Downstairs offers guests their own cheerful living room with direct access to a deck and the lake, along with a kitchenette and two bedrooms and baths, and a bonus room. While the lake creates an unparalleled view, the entry side of the house runs a close second with its terraced gardens and mature landscaping. MLS 102158

Whiteside Cove Road

OFFERED FOR $885,000

4 BR / 3 BA

This cozy mountain cottage with shared driveway has easy ingress and egress off Whiteside Cove Road and adjoins the Heaton Forest section of High Hampton. Mature trees and landscaping greet you as you pass a gently sloping lawn to the home. The front entry is accessed off a large half-wrap deck with plenty of room for outdoor

furniture. Inside there’s a soaring ceiling in the wood paneled great room and a replace currently out tted with a wood stove. The kitchen, two small bedrooms and a bath nish off this level. Large master bedroom is upstairs with its own bath. The lower level has three main spaces that can be used in many different ways. MLS 102321

Holly Forest

OFFERED FOR $775,000

3 BR / 3 BA

This charming home is on the Cashiers side of the Holly Forest neighborhood, near Camp Merrie Woode, and to get there one drives past beautiful Fair eld Lake! The home’s circular driveway is on a gentle grade providing easy access. Just inside, an expansive vaulted ceiling contains the great room with wood-burning stone replace, dining and kitchen with open concept and great lighting. Main bedroom and two guest rooms are nicely separated for privacy. Off the great room there is a conditioned sunroom with many windows

providing excellent additional year round living space, plant oasis, or a quiet place to read and relax. Upstairs is a nished large vaulted room with a private bath which could be used for an excellent home of ce, over ow guest space or TV/game room. Outside the lower yard has mature landscaping and steps to a trail leading to a mountain dipping stream on the adjoining community property. Despite its close proximity to town and the Wyndham amenities, this home has a very private feeling.

MLS 101918