December2011

Laurel thelaure l m ag a z i n e . c o m

December 2011

Your Guide To The Finest In Highlands And Cashiers

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Publisher’s Note

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o you feel it? The wonder of Christmas? The hope that twinkles with each flickering light? The joy that’s wrapped inside each package? We do. As we wrap up 2011, the words of Tiny Tim ring through our hearts “God Bless Us, Every One!” Thank you, each and every one, for your support and encouragement of The Laurel. A blessed holiday and a prosperous 2012 to all!

Janet and Marjorie

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The Laurel Magazine • December 2011

Contents Events

14 • Holiday Events in Highlands 16 • Winter Activites in Cashiers 19 • Cashiers Christmas House 19 • Alternative Gift Market 20 • Community Christian Chorale 22 • Photos with Santa 23 • Smoky Mountain Brass Quintet 23 • Annual Carol Sing 24 • Breakfast with Santa 26 • Cashiers Christmas Parade 27 • Cashiers Cares 28 • PTO Fundraiser 29 • Sawyer’s Holiday Festival 30 • Scenes From 31 • Area Calendar

The Arts

36 • Cover Artist, Alison Moody 38 • Feature Artist, Frank Vickery 39 • The Bascom News 40 • Betsy Paul Art Raffle 42 • Annual Holiday Reading 44 • UMC’s Children’s Performance

History

Maps

18 • Highlands Map 34 • Cashiers Map

58 • Highlands History 59 • Cashiers History

Dining

50 • Southern Belles 52 • Celebrity Chef Hugh Acheson 54 • Annual Christmas Dinner 56 • Dining Guide

Literary

62 • Highlands Writer’s Group, Lee Lyons 63 • Life with Krysti 64 • “A Love Story”

Volume Ten • Issue Eleven • www.thelaurelmagazine.com • 828-526-0173 email: editorial@themountainlaurel.com • P.O. Box 565 • Highlands, North Carolina 28741 12 | December 2011 | www.thelaurelmagazine.com

The Laurel Magazine • December 2011

Homes & Lifestyles

66 • Home of Distinction 68 • Concentrated Stock 69 • Spinal Decompression Therapy 70 • Token of Appreciation

Spotlight

Staff

Giving Back

76 • Forever Farm 77 • Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust 78 • Rotary Club of Highlands 78 • Valley Garden Club 80 • Carpe Diem Farms 82 • J-M Conservation Alliance 83 • Highlands Literacy Council 84 • Gilliam’s Promise 86 • Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society 88 • Toys for Tots 89 • REACH of Macon County

Janet Cummings, Managing Partner

Marjorie Fielding, Managing Partner

janet@ themountainlaurel.com

marjorie@ themountainlaurel.com

(828) 371-2689

(828) 371-2764

Michelle Munger, Art Director

Luke Osteen, Writer

mungerclan5@aol.com

(828) 342-3551

dumbdogs@ earthlink.net

Wiley Sloan, Writer

Donna Rhodes, Writer

Guides

wileyandsarah@ nctv.com

90 • Drake’s Diamond Gallery 92 • Highland Hiker Expands

18 • Highlands Map 34 • Cashiers Map 31 • Area Calendar 56 • Dining Guide 72 • Waterfall Guide 73 • Service Directory 94 • Advertisers Index

donna847@ frontier.com

Contributing Writers: Jane Gibson Nardy, Gary Wein, Kathy Bub, Mary Adair Leslie, Elizabeth Fletcher, Sue Blair, Michael Rich, Sue Aery, Jim Johnson and Resa Johnson, Michelle Price and Robin Armstrong-Neil

Copyright © 2011 by The Mountain Laurel, LLC. All rights reserved. Laurel Magazine is published eleven times per year. Reproduction without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publishers and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication subject to Laurel Magazine’s right to edit. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, photographs and drawings. Every effort has been made to assure that all information presented in this issue is accurate, and neither Laurel Magazine nor any of its staff is responsible for advertising errors, omissions, or information that has been misrepresented in or to the magazine. Any substantial errors that are the fault of the magazine will be subject to a reduction or reimbursement of the amounts paid by the advertiser, but in no case will any claim arising from such error exceed the amount paid for the advertisement by the advertiser.

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Events

Holiday Events in Highlands

by Luke Osteen The winter months are a magical time to spend in Highlands.

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tive spin on naughty behavior.

Old Edwards Inn and Spa will stage a complimentary wine tasting from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 3rd, December 10th and 17th. It’s a fabulous opportunity to sample Old Edwards’ renowned inventory and revel in the ambience that has earned this Highlands landmark Conde Nast’s Traveler’s #1 Hotel Spa in North America honors.

On Sunday, December 4th, Highlands United Methodist Church will stage “Christmas In Other Nations in Music” at its 10:50 a.m. Service. This program, which will utilize HUMC’s wonderful choir, is a showcase for songs and carols that have brightened the holiday through the centuries.

Old Edwards Inn and Spa will host the Jeff Galloway Training Retreat Tuesday, December 6th-Thursday, December 8th. For more information on this two night package, call (828) 7872625.

Children are invited to attend Breakfast with Santa from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. Saturday, December 10th, at Highlands United Methodist Church. Santa will speak with

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i g h l a n d ’s O l d e M o u n tain Christmas Parade, set for 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 3rd, gets all the attention, but there are a host of events and attractions throughout the season. Like presents ringing a Christmas Tree, there’s something for everyone.

The First Presbyterian Church will complement the spirit of the parade when it hosts the ‘Tis the Season Alternative Gift Market from 11:45 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. You can choose to support a variety of nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving life both locally and around the world. Each of these agencies offers a variety of giving levels.

You’ll want to stick around for First Presbyterian Church’s Carol Sing, slated to begin at 2:00 p.m. There’s no better way to kindle the holiday spirit in your heart.

Immediately after the parade, Santa will take up his post at the Highlands Visitor Center. That’s a great opportunity to outline your Christmas Wish List or put a posi-

Events each one and present his origins as St. Nicholas, the Bishop of Myra. The suggested donation is $10 per family.

Also on Saturday, December 10th, Drake’s Diamond Gallery will hold a drawing for an exclusive piece of jewelry, a raffle to benefit REACH of Macon County. Designer Wanda Drake’s 18k white gold neckpiece is adorned with 3.5ct total weight in diamonds.

If Wanda were going to sell it in her gallery, she’d offer it for $5,400.

REACH is offering it for $5 per raffle ticket (five tickets for $20). Tickets are available at Drake’s Diamond Gallery and you don’t have to be present to win. Proceeds will enable REACH of Macon County to provide support to victims of domestic violence.

The Highlands Community Christian Choir will perform its breathtaking Christmas Chorale at 5:00 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday, December 10th and 11th, at the First Presbyterian Church. This holiday favorite is something of a local tradition, so it’s a good idea to arrive early.

On Thursday, December 15th, Highlands-Cashiers Players will stage their Holiday Reading at the MartinLipscomb Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. The show is free and promises to deliver a warm helping of Holiday Cheer. The Performing Arts Center is located at 507 Chestnut Street.

The Highlands Plateau Audubon Society conducts its Christmas Bird Count at 7:30 a.m. Friday, December 16th. Call Edwin Poole at (828) 5262775 if you’d like to volunteer.

La Noche Navidena, a Christmas Holiday Dinner and Santa Visit, will be offered from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 17th, at Highlands Civic Center. Invitations are available through the International Friendship Center. For more information, call (828) 526-0890, extension 290.

Community Bible Church will stage “The Stories of Christmas” at 7:00 p.m. Sunday, December 19th It’s an evening of music, drama, and dance celebrating the stories that make

Christmas a season of wonder and inspiration. The program will be preceded by carol singing starting at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call (828) 526-4685.

Highlands United Methodist Church will present the Holy Night Cantata at its 10:50 a.m. Sunday, December 18th, service.

Drake’s Diamond Gallery will stage its Diamond Dare II Drawing at noon Friday, December 23rd.

Christmas Dinner will be offered at Madison’s Restaurant from noon to 5:00 p.m. Cost is $65. For reservations or more information, call (828) 526-8008.

HANDS’ Annual Christmas Dinner is slated for Saturday, December 25th, at Highlands Country Club’s Hudson House. The Dinner is sponsored by Highlands Area Non-Profit Donation Sharing (HANDS) and will benefit local charities. For reservations or more information, call (828) 526-5102.

There are plenty of choices for celebrating New Year’s Eve in grand style. You’ll need to make reservations.

Old Edwards Inn and Spa will host a gala dinner, live entertainment, champagne and 12 Grapes at Midnight. Cost is $130. For reservations, call (828) 787-2625.

Old Edwards Inn and Spa’s Rib Shack will celebrate from 9:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Call (828) 787-2625.

There’ll be dinner and a champagne celebration at midnight at the Inn at Half Mile Farm. For reservations, call (800) 946-6822.

Ruka’s Table will stage a New Year’s dinner with its trademark flair. For reservations, call (828) 526-3636.

Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro knows how to stage a memorable holiday dinner. If you’d like to be a part, call (828) 526-3807. …on the Verandah will offer dinner only from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.; with late night seating with dinner, live music and dancing starting at 9:00 p.m. call (828) 526-2338.

To download the Winter in Highlands calendar, including events through March 2012, visit www.thelaurelmagazine.com

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Events

Winter Activities in Cashiers

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Contributed by Carol Adams

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ongratulations are in order to the Greater Cashiers Area Merchants Association! The three year old business organization was awarded the Duke Energy Good Citizen Award at the annual Cashiers Chamber of Commerce Dinner on Friday, November 11th. President Judy Brown accepted the award and thanked Duke Energy and the Cashiers Chamber of Commerce on behalf of the Board of Directors and all members of GCAMA. Since organizing in 2009, the association has more than doubled their Cashiers Valley area shop and business membership. In the three year period they have launched a major community event, the Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival, provided visitors and residents with a Shoppers Guide Map, offered Welcome Home packets to home and property buyers and enhanced the community Thanksgiving weekend holiday festivities at the Village Green. “Our mission is to bring in and then sustain potential frequent visitors and home buyers to the area to promote and support future economic stability,” explains President Brown. “The GCAMA belief is that all businesses benefit when homes are built, new residents move here and visitors are drawn to all of the mountain communities throughout the year”, she continues.

The Cashiers Christmas Parade will line-up this year on Saturday, December 10th. The parade, a local and visitors’ favorite tradition, is an eclectic string of floats, music and a variety of marchers. At noon the line of attractions travels from the south end of the Cashiers Main Street, Highway 107, to the Community Center. Santa has his own “float” but North Pole elves often return to join in with the GCAMA parade entry.

The Community Center offers a holiday-style lunch fundraiser right after the parade.

Throughout November and December numerous GCAMA member merchants feature special sales and events to launch the shopping season. From mid- November to Christmas Eve choose and cut Christmas Tree Farms are open for the many visitors and residents who make these farm visits a holiday tradition. Several local tree farms offer much more than just cutting and purchasing Christmas trees. There are Santa’s Elves in their Village Winter months have their own picturesque charm in the Cashiers Valley with snow on the ground being the most welcome condition for fun and frolic. Sliding on neighborhood hills can be a daily event but for more exciting activity kids and adults head for snowboarding and tubing in Sapphire. To learn more about the Greater Cashier Area Merchants Association and their activities as well as about the Cashiers Valley shops and merchants call (828) 743-1630, email greatercashiersmerchantsassoc@yahoo.com or log on to www.cashiersvalleyncmerchants.com or www.cashiersvalleyleaffest.com.

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Accommodations

Sundrops on Caney Fork.......

Hen House..............................

4-1/2 Street Inn .....................

Meadows Mtn. Realty............

High Cotton............................

Highlands Emporium............

Colonial Pines Inn..................

Restaurant

Martha Anne’s........................

Whiteside Cove Cottages......

Fressers / Fressers Express.

Peak Experience....................

Mountain Brook Suites.........

Paolettis...................................

Scudders.................................

Pescados.................................

The Summer House...............

Arts

Rosewood Market..................

Whole Life Market.................

Bryant Art Glass....................

The Brick Oven......................

Highlands Fine Art ...............

John Collette Fine Art...........

Wild Thyme Gourmet...........

Highland Hiker.......................

Laurel Magazine.....................

Wolfgang’s Restaurant &

Mirror Lake Antiques............

Mill Creek Gallery & Framing ..

Wine Bistro.............................

Services

Marge Rohrer Originals........

Greenleaf Gallery...................

Retail

Creative Concepts Salon.......

The Bascom . .........................

Alyxandra’s ............................

Highlands Visitors Center.....

Bear Mountain Outfitters......

Warth Construction...............

Real Estate

Cabin Casuals.........................

Tranquility Cove Massage....

Country Club Properties.......

Christmas Tree ....................

Aery Chiropractic & Acupunc-

Harry Norman Realtors........

Drake’s Diamond Gallery ....

ture.........................................

John Cleaveland Realty..........

Dry Sink..................................

Nellis Realty...........................

Dutchman’s Designs..............

View the Highlands, North Carolina interactive map at www.thehighlandsmap.com for addresses, phone numbers and website links to local businesses.

To promote your business in both the print version and on-line Highlands map for only $20 per month, email marjorie@themountainlaurel.com.

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Inn at Half Mile Farm............

Events

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First Annual Christmas House

igh atop the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, the happy little elves of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau are busy making plans to deck the halls for the region’s First Annual Christmas House. Hosted at the site of the former Library Restaurant in the heart of Sapphire Valley, proceeds from the Christmas House will benefit the Village Green — a sprawling 12-acre community park in downtown Cashiers. This inaugural holiday event is sponsored by Silver Creek Real Estate Group — whose founder, Jochen Lucke, serves as the chairman of the Board of the Village Green.

Says Lucke, “2011 has been a very busy year for the Village Green. We played host to over 50 wonderful events — from private affairs such as birthday parties and weddings to public events like craft shows, outdoor concerts, and the Leaf Festival, which drew thousands of visitors to the area this fall. What better way to end the year than with an event dedicated to community and holiday cheer?”

The Christmas House will be magically transformed into an elegant holiday home furnished and decorated by local inte-

rior designers and merchants. Touring room after room filled with home décor items, sweet treats, live music, and the Jolly Old Elf himself will prove a terrific way to get into the holiday spirit while viewing the work of these talented folks and checking some items off of one’s gift list.

“We hope the Christmas House becomes a tradition that locals and visitors alike will look forward to attending,” states Lucke. “All of the proceeds from the event will support the continued maintenance and operation of the Village Green. A wonderful asset to the area, we continue to make much needed improvements to the Village Green, which most recently included the chip and sealing of the parking lot at the Village Green Commons. All of these improvements are paid for by fundraising efforts, private grants, and donations to the Village Green. We receive no funds from local and state government, so our fundraising and continued generosity of visitors is crucial.” The house will be open until December 18th, on Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Sunday 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Please support the Village Green!

For additional information, please call (828) 743-3434.

Alternative Gift Market

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ven in these tough economic times, we are all blessed. Yes we clip coupons, search the internet for the best discounts and watch what we spend. With those savings we can now realach out to those in our community and throughout the world, who are less fortunate than we are. Here in America we are truly blessed and our Creator looks to us to share those blessings.

When you give to the “Tis the Season”-Holiday Gift Market you know that all of your money will go to help others.

The Market will be held immediately following the Highlands Christmas parade

by Wiley Sloan on Saturday, December 3rd beginning at 11:45 a.m. and running through 4:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church’s Coleman Hall at 471 Main Street, Highlands.

By participating in the Market you are able to help people from fourteen charitable agencies. You simplify your gift giving. No more wondering what size Uncle Herbert is or what Aunt Suzy would like. You know that Dad would be pleased that you gave a gift in his honor rather than choosing another necktie.

Area charities that are supported by the Alternative Gift Market are Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Blue Ridge Dental Clinic, Bosnia

Mission, Community Care Clinic, The Food Pantry, Haiti, Highlands Bolivian Mission, Highlands Community Child Development Center, Highlands Emergency Council, International Friendship Center, Kids for Peace, Literacy Council, Living Waters of the World and REACH of Macon County.

The Alternative Gift Market offers gift-giving without the hassle. No need to drive to the mall or to worry about mailing and shipping.

You simply make a gift to a favorite charity. Help others who are less fortunate than you and share your blessings with others. See you at the Gift Market after the Christmas Parade.

The annual Bolivian Mission trip is one of the organizations that benefit from the ‘Tis the Season Holiday Gift Market, slated for 11:45 a.m. Saturday, December 3rd, at the First Presbyterian Church in Highlands.

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The Highlands Map 18A |December 2011 | www.thelaurelmagazine.com

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Events

Community Christian Chorale Concert

by Wiley Sloan

The Highlands Community Christian Chorale’s Christmas Concert sponsored by Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church is Saturday, December 10th and Sunday, December 11th at 5:00 p.m. at the Highlands United Methodist Church on 315 Main Street.

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can’t think of any better way to get into the Christmas spirit than to listen to beautiful traditional Christmas music. Talented singers from throughout our area have been practicing for months to share music that we all know and love.

The Highlands Community Christian Chorale will present their 17th Annual Christmas Concert on Saturday and Sunday, December 10th and 11th. The Chorale will sing traditional carols, classical liturgical choral pieces and some lighter holiday fare. Selections by Bach, Alfred Burt, Douglas Wagner and arrangements by Robert Shaw are a few of the features of this year’s concert.

This year the Chorale is sponsored by Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church. The Artistic Director is Mary Beth Brody.

New to the Chorale is accompanist, Craig Brinker from Brevard College School of Music. The Chorale is made up of singers from seven different churches in the Highlands and Cashiers areas who come together each year to bring this ecumenical event to Highlands.

Ms. Brody said, “Conducting the Chorale is the highlight of my holiday season. Music is called the universal language because we come together to work hard, have fun, and sing in exultation – bringing a beautiful gift to the Community and celebrating the holy and joyous season of Christmas together.”

The concert is free to the public but an offering will be accepted to help defray the cost of the music. The singers themselves donate funds for the music, which is housed in the Chorale library which is available for use by all participating churches.

Events

Highlands Christmas Parade

by Luke Osteen

Virtually everyone is either in the Olde Mountain Christmas Parade or watching it from the sidelines. This year’s event is set for 11:00 a.m.

Saturday, December 3rd.

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f you’re one of those who bemoans the commercialization of Christmas and longs for a simpler celebration of the season, mark your calendar for 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 3rd.

That’s when the 22nd incarnation of the Highlands Olde Mountain Christmas Parade winds down Main Street.

The parade is the perfect tonic for the overblown, incredibly polished corporate exercises staged in other parts of the country. There’s a warm, homemade feel to the Highlands parade since it’s staged entirely by local groups, churches, businesses, fire departments and bands of neighbors. It’s all delivered with pride, sparkle and more than a little bit of humor.

You’ll find handmade floats, at least one marching band, dancing garden ladies, dogs that amble more or less in formation, fire trucks, Smokey the Bear, classic cars, horses, the Highlands High School Homecoming Court, a trio of camels, local politicians, and, of course, Santa. It’s not uncommon for the parade to draw over eighty entries. That’s a remarkable accomplishment for a town with a year-round population of less than 2,000.

People begin lining Main Street early to ensure they get a good view and to chat with neighbors and visitors. The parade route spans three blocks, so there should be plenty of room for everyone.

If you are part of a group that would like to be included in the lineup, contact the Highlands Chamber of Commerce at (828) 526-2112. There is no entrance fee.

If you’re thinking of inviting Santa to participate in your entry, please note that he’s already accepted the Chamber’s invitation to appear in the parade.

He’ll also be at the Visitor Center immediately after the parade until 3:00 p.m. www.thelaurelmagazine.com | December 2011 | 23

Events

Photos with Santa

by Luke Osteen

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ow that the holiday season is here, a lot of kids and more than a few adults are taking stock of their lives and making adjustments. Others are compiling lists of things needed and desired, the fruits of a year’s worth of good behavior.

Whichever camp they fall in, they’re counting the days until Santa Claus arrives at The Highlands Visitor Center.

Even in the hectic days leading up to Christmas, Santa manages to find time to sit and listen to his friends and Highlands has long been one of his favorite spots. According to insider accounts, the clean mountain air helps him maintain his unfailingly cheerful air, which makes Highlands one of the ideal spots to ask for an especially unlikely present or to appeal for clemency.

You’ll find Santa in front of The Visitor Center (next

You’ll find Santa Saturdays at The Visitor Center from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. up until Christmas.

to The Main Street Inn) on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. up until Christmas. He’ll close out the Olde Mountain Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 3rd.

Once the parade is over, he’ll be back at his post at the Visitor Center.

If you’re so inclined, you can bring a treat for Santa or his reindeer. But really, none of that is necessary. He packs on the snacks in those few hours before dawn on Christmas morning and the reindeer are confined to a high-carb sprinter’s diet in the weeks leading up to the Big Night.

If you have questions about Santa’s busy schedule or the events that mark Highlands’ Holiday Season – the Olde Mountain Christmas Parade, the worship schedules of local churches – contact the Highlands Visitor Center at (828) 526-2112.

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Events

Smoky Mountain Brass Quintet

by Wiley Sloan

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iving in close proximity to Western Carolina University is a great blessing to all of us in Highlands. One of the great benefits is that we can hear the talented members of the Smoky Mountain Brass Quintet. Since 1993 they have been entertaining folks in our region as well as people throughout the world. Performances in New York City, Germany, China, Russia, England, Wales and Ireland have allowed these talented musicians to share their music with people of many nationalities.

Those of you who have heard the Quintet perform before know that they play a wide range of music from Classical to Jazz, Patriotic to Pop. Their upcoming performance at the Highlands Presbyterian Church will focus on Christmas music. I can’t think of a better way to get into the Christmas spirit than to listen to these five guys play traditional favorites. Music lovers rave about the talents of the Quintet. “Accomplished artists; inspiring and entertaining performers” are just some of the comments overhead after their last visit to Highlands. Come hear P. Bradley Ulrich on trumpet, Travis Bennett on horn, Daniel Cherry on trombone, David Ginn on trumpet, and Michael Schallock on tuba.

Join your friends at the Highlands First Presbyterian Church at 471 Main Street on December 3rd at 5:00 P.M. to hear these talented musicians.

Annual Carol Sing

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ou’ve just finished the Highlands Christmas Parade and you have had lunch. Now join your friends as we bring in the Christmas season with an old fashioned Christmas Carol sing at the First Presbyterian Church in Highlands on Saturday, December 3rd at 2:00 p.m. Stell Huie will lead the singing as Angie Jenkins accompanies on the piano.

Make this a family outing. There’s no better way to build a family tradition than to all join in song with traditional Christmas songs. Dress is casual. www.thelaurelmagazine.com | December 2011 | 25

Events

Breakfast with Santa

by Wiley Sloan | Photo by A Moment in Time Photography

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or a number of years the children of the Highlands Community have enjoyed a special treat as they gather at the Highlands United Methodist Church at 315 Main Street to meet Santa. That may not sound like a big deal to us old folks or to the children who live in the major metropolitan areas that have large shopping malls where Santa’s Helpers are ever present. But Santa thinks that it’s a big deal for all the children of our area and he’s glad to welcome the children of Highlands here.

On Saturday, December 10th, bring your children or grandchildren for a delicious hot breakfast prepared by

Breakfast with Santa, slated for 8:30 a.m. Saturday, December 10th at Highlands United Methodist Church, sets the tone for the holiday season.

two dads, Johannes Klapdohr and Patrick Leonard.

If you know these two guys you know that they love food and that breakfast will be great. Johannes is Execu-

tive Chef for Old Edwards Inn and Spa and Patrick definitely knows his way around the kitchen, too.

Breakfast is served from 8:30 a.m. until 10:00 a.m.

The suggested donation is $10 per family. Make reservations by calling the church no later than Wednesday, December 7th at (828) 5263376.

The children will have plenty of time to share their Christmas list with Santa and to have pictures made.

There will also be a fun craft project-decorating Christmas cookies as a souvenir of this exciting event.

No Christmas get together would be complete without time for a favorite Christmas story and Christmas carols.

Make your reservations early and come out for a stellar holiday celebration with Santa.

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Events

Cashiers Christmas Parade

by Luke Osteen

The Cashiers Christmas parade is set for noon Saturday, December 10th.

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For a comprehensive list of area events and happenings visit www.highlands-cashierscalendar.com

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t’s a fair question -- how does a community as small as Cashiers manage to stage something as vibrant as the Cashiers Christmas Parade?

Well, it’s a combination of deep civic pride and an almost unlimited supply of holiday cheer. That translates into nearly the entire population of the Cashiers Valley either in the parade or watching from the sidelines.

This year’s parade will be staged at noon Saturday, December 10th, at The Crossroads.

Spearheaded by the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce, the parade is a community-wide effort that boasts over 60 entries. That means you’ll see representatives from nearly every school, non-profit organization and club in the area. There’ll be floats, fire trucks, bands, animals, and Santa and his helpers. Veteran parade-goers recommend that you arrive early to claim a good spot.

The weather being what it is, it’s a good idea to bring along an umbrella and windbreaker.

For more information, call the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce at (828) 743-5191.

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Cashiers Cares Contributed by Carroll Summerour

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lease join us for a free lunch at the Cashiers Community Center immediately following the Cashiers Christmas parade on Saturday, December 10th. Cashiers Cares is a not-for-profit organization focused on other not for profits to attend to the needs of residents primarily in Southern Jackson County.

Cashiers Cares is sponsored by the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, Cashiers United Methodist Church, St. Jude’s Catholic Church, and Grace Community Church.

Cashiers Cares provides funding for ten local charities; Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society, Cashiers United Christian Ministries, Clean Slate Coalition, Community Care

Clinic, Fishes also have and Loaves an opportuFood Pantry, nity to make Free Dental a financial Clinic, Haven contribuof Rest Mintion to these istries, Life worthwhile Challenge charities – a of Western perfect way NC, Literacy to do your Council of Christmas giving locally Cashiers, and in Cashiers.

United ChrisWe are tian MinisThis beautiful Christmas card crelucky to tries of Jackated by Summit Charter School have the Roson County.

Each of these student Caroline Woods is the per- tary Club of agencies will fect illustration of the spirit behind Cashiers ValCashiers Cares. ley provide have a booth a free lunch at the Community Center where you will for all those who attend. We have an opportunity to learn can already smell the aroma more about them. You will of hot dogs cooking on the

grill and the delicious chili donated by Wendy’s! And to top it off, we will have a special visit from our favorite bearded friend, Santa Claus! Santa will be available for pictures and to hear what those special wishes are for Christmas. We will also have unique Christmas cards designed by local Cashiers students available for purchase for those last minute cards that you have yet to mail. Caroline Woods of Summit Charter School was the winner of the 2011 Cashiers Cares Christmas Card Contest. The Christmas cards can also be purchased at any of the sponsoring churches. Please join us for this fun event – there is something for everyone!

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Events

Highlands PTO Fundraiser at Mountain Fresh

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ark your calendars and join your friends at Mountain Fresh Grocery on December 17th for a delicious breakfast. JT and the folks at Mountain Fresh are generously donating 100 % of the revenue from the breakfast shift to the Highlands School Parents Teachers Organization (PTO).

Mountain Fresh offers something for everyone on their delicious breakfast menu. Your choice of eggs and meat, homemade biscuits, grits, pancake, fruit and so much more. The freshly roasted coffee adds a special touch. The event is the week before Christmas. What better way to get energized for that huge day of shopping or for decorating the tree?

They open at 7:00 a.m. so come on out. Please thank JT for his generosity. This is not the profit...it is 100% of the revenues from breakfast that morning. They are donating everything!

The PTO supports the students and staff of Highlands School by providing resources that are above and beyond the allotted budget. This donation reaches every child at Highlands School.

Mountain Fresh is giving the community a generous opportunity to support our school. Let’s pack the house. Hope to see you there!

For a comprehensive list of area events and happenings visit www.highlands-cashierscalendar.com

CONTENTS

30 | December 2011 | www.thelaurelmagazine.com

Events

Christmas Traditions at Sawyer’s Holiday Festival Contributed by Carol Adams

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om Sawyer’s Christmas Tree Farm and Elf Village is more than just the place to get a holiday tingle.

It’s the preferred place to go to pick the most perfectly shaped and fragrant 3- and 12-foot Frasier Fir trees, visit Santa and his elves, relax in the Christmas Café’ and pick up holiday décor and gifts.

Tom Sawyer’s Christmas Tree Farm and Elf Village kicked off the season in midNovember with the grand opening of their 2011 Holiday Festival. Santa’s elves rolled into their village from the North Pole with Santa and settled into their woodsy tree houses, their home every weekend until Christmas Eve.

The elves who are hard at work making toys during the week are more than ready, from Friday to Monday, to entertain kids with Christmas stories, face painting and craft fun.

On any day of the week you can choose and cut one of Western North Carolina’s most perfect Frasier Fir trees or pick a pre-cut tree. The Christmas Shop and Big Red Barn, where you can buy beautiful wreaths and garland, gifts, Christmas décor and “Elf Magic” items, are open daily.

The most fun occurs Fridays through Mondays, while your trees and evergreens are packed for transport or shipping. Upon entering the Elf

Village kids and adults alike don “Elf Wear” to set all the awaiting frolic and merriment in motion.

What to do and where to go? Well, the weekend choices are amazing: Visit Elves in their Elf Village Weekend Home, a Cluster of Tree Houses in a Woodsy Hollow; Enjoy Horse-drawn Carriage, Tractor and Farm Wagon Tree Tours; Create Holiday Art in the Craft Room; Mail Gift Wish Lists at Santa’s Post Office; Hear Holiday Tales told by an Elf in the Storytelling Cabin; Toast Marshmallows around the fire-pit in Marsh-

mallow Hollow: The Christmas Café is now served by Pinnacle Catering and offers delicious fare from nachos and chili to Santa’s subs, sweets and hot beverages. The beautifully decorated Pavilion is also available for holiday, private, club and church parties.

Admission to the Farm is free although there is a charge for some activities. The entry fee to the Elf Village is $3 for children and $5 for adults. A special Elf Village group rate is offered for five or more.

All details for your visit or for fundraising and outings are available by contacting Tom Sawyer’s Christmas Tree Farm at (828) 743-5456/(800) 6627008 or www.freshtreez.com.

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Events

Scenes from Trick or Treat

Highlands annual Downtown Trick or Treat was held Monday, October 31st. Photos by Sarah Valentine

Scenes from Culinary Weekend

CONTENTS The 5th Annual Highlands Culinary Weekend was held onNovember 10th-13th and filled the town with fun and delicious culinary fun.

To view more photos from these events, visit www.thelaurelmagazine.com/extra.php

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Mark Your Calendar • Christmas House, open weekends thru December 18 , at the former Library Restaurant in the heart of the Sapphire Valley. Hours will be Friday & Saturday 10-5 Sunday 11-4. Admission prices: Adults - $20, Children (ages 10-18) - $10, Children (under 10) - free. (828) 743-1999.

• Ceramics Open Studio meets most Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays in December. Confirm your session with Frank Vickery at the clay barn before registration.

The cost for either two-week session is $125 for members and $150 for non-members. To learn more about these events, exhibitions and classes, call The Bascom at (828) 5264949.

• Tools in Motion Exhibit, through December 23, The Bascom, (828) 526-4949.

• Drake’s Diamond Dare II, guess the number of candies for a Sparkly Santa Surprise, Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., through Friday December 23, Drake’s Diamond Gallery, (828) 526-5858.

• Holiday Festival, Tom Sawyer’s Christmas Tree Farm & Elf Village, 9 a.m. - dark, through December 24, (828) 743-5456.

• Children’s Gallery featuring works from The Bascom’s youth classes and Literal Quilt, the 2011 Bascom/Literacy Council project Through 2011, The Bascom, (828) 526-4949.

• Do Tell: Patrick Dougherty, through 2011, The Bascom, (828) 526-4949.

• Giving Trees and Nog Off showcase of festive holiday trees decorated by local nonprofit organizations, on view through January 3. The Bascom, (828) 526-4949.

• Ben Owen: Ceramics exhibition through December 3. The Bascom, (828) 526-4949.

• Gilliam’s Promise 5K Run, December 3, before the Highlands Christmas Parade, (828) 526-2220.

• Highlands Olde Mountain Christmas Parade, 11 a.m., Saturday. December 3, Main Street, (828) 526-2112.

• ‘Tis the Season Holiday Gift Market, 11:45 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, December 3, at the First Presbyterian Church in Highlands, (828) 526-3175.

• Old fashioned Christmas Carol Sing, 2 p.m., Saturday, December 3, First Presbyterian Church of Highlands, (828) 526-3175.

• Old Edwards Inn and Spa complimentary wine tasting, 2-4 p.m. Saturday, December 3, 10 and 17, (828) 787-2685.

• Smoky Mountain Brass Quintet, 5 p.m., Saturday, December 3, First Presbyterian Church of Highlands, (828) 526-3175.

• Christmas Musical, based on the story “None of Us Will Ever Be the Same”, Sunday morning service, December 4, Highlands United Methodist Church, (828) 526-3376.

• Holiday Centerpiece Workshop, Wednesday, December 7, The Bascom. For information or to register, call (828) 526-4949.

• Breakfast with Santa, 8:30-10 a.m.

Saturday, December 10, prepared by Johannes Klapdohr and Patrick Leonard. The suggested donation is $10 per family. Make reservations by calling the church no later than Wednesday, December 7 at (828) 5263376.

• Raffle to benefit REACH of Macon County, Saturday, December 10, Tickets are available at Drake’s Diamond Gallery and you don’t have to be present to win. (828) 526-5858.

• Cashiers Christmas Parade, 1 p.m., Saturday, December 10, travels from the south end of the Cashiers Main Street, Highway 107, to the Community Center, (828) 743-1630.

• Cashiers Cares Free Lunch at the Cashiers Community Center immediately following the Cashiers Christmas parade on Saturday, December 10, lunch provided by Rotary Club of Cashiers Valley.

• Highlands Community Christian Chorale’s Christmas Concert, sponsored by Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church, 5 p.m., Saturday, December 10 and Sunday, December 11, Highlands United Methodist Church, (828) 526-3376.

• Highlands-Cashiers Players will stage their Holiday Reading, 7:30 p.m., Thursday, December 15, at the Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center. The show is free and promises to deliver a warm helping of Holiday Cheer. (828) 526-8084.

• Highlands Plateau Audubon Society conducts its Christmas Bird Count at 7:30 a.m. Friday, December 16. Call Edwin Poole at (828) 526-2775.

• Book Signing and Dinner prepared by James Beard nominee Chef Hugh Acheson and the culinary team at The Farm at Old Edwards Inn on Friday, December 16, (828) 787-4263 • Highlands PTO Breakfast at Mountain Fresh Grocery, Saturday, December 17. JT and the folks at Mountain Fresh are generously donating 100 % of the revenue from the breakfast shift o the Highlands School Parents Teachers Organization (PTO).

• La Noche Navidena, a Christmas Holiday Dinner and Santa Visit, will be offered from 6-9 p.m. Saturday, December 17, at Highlands Civic Center. Invitations are available through the International Friendship Center. For more information, call (828) 526-0890, extension 290.

• Community Bible Church will stage “The Stories of Christmas”, 7 p.m. Sunday, December 19. The program, celebrating the stories that make Christmas a season of wonder and inspiration, will be preceded by carol singing starting at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call (828) 526-4685.

• Highlands United Methodist Church will present the Holy Night Cantata at its 10:50 a.m. Sunday, December 18, service. (828) 526-3376.

• Drake’s Diamond Gallery will stage its Diamond Dare II Drawing at noon, Friday, December 23, (828) 526-5858.

• HANDS’ Annual Christmas Dinner, Saturday, December 25, at Highlands Country Club’s Hudson House. The Dinner is sponsored by Highlands Area Non-Profit Donation Sharing (HANDS) and will benefit local charities. For reservations or more information, call (828) 526-5102.

• Betsy Paul art raffle for the Cashiers Glenville Volunteer Fire Department, will be held on December 31. For more information, call (828) 743-0880.

Weekly Events EvERy MONDAy • Triva Night, 8 p.m., Ugly Dog Pub, (828) 526-8364.

EvERy TUESDAy • Highlands Rotary Club, noon, Highlands Community Center.

• Weight Watchers, 5:30 p.m., Highlands Rec Park.

EvERy WEDNESDAy • Highlands Mountaintop Rotary, 7:30 a.m., dining room at the HighlandsCashiers Hospital.

• Rotary Club of Cashiers valley, 8 a.m., Cashiers United Methodist Church, (828) 743-2243.

• Cashiers Quilters Guild, 12:30 p.m., Cashiers United Methodist Church.

• Duplicate Bridge Games, 12:50 p.m., Highlands Civic Center.

• Bluegrass, 7:30 p.m., Ugly Dog Pub, Nitorgrass and Rebecca White, (828) 5268364.

EvERy FRIDAy • Duplicate Bridge Games, 12:30-1:30 p.m., Highlands Civic Center.

• Live Music, 6 p.m.-close, Hummingbird Lounge, Old Edwards Inn, (828) 787-2625.

• Music at on the verandah, Chad Reed, 7 p.m., (828) 526-2338.

• Live Music, Ruka’s Table, (828) 526-3636.

EvERy SATURDAy • Santa at the Highlands visitor Center, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. up until Christmas, (828) 5262112.

• Wine Tasting, 2 p.m., Mountain Fresh, (828) 526-2400.

• Live Music, 6 p.m.-close, Hummingbird Lounge, Old Edwards Inn, (828) 787-2625.

• Music, on the Verandah, Chad Reed, 7 p.m., (828) 526-2338.

EvERy SUNDAy • Fiddling Mitch, Highlands Smokehouse, (828) 526-5000.

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CASHIERS MAP KEY

into the Woods Home interiors .....................

Lenz Gifts .................................................................... main street Folk Art & Furnishings................ midnight Farms ................................................ mountain House................................................ narcissus ........................................................... nearly new/ellen’s ......................................... nora & co. .........................................................

GG’s consignments *etc ............................... rusticks. ............................................................. ryan & company .............................................. sashay Around. ................................................. summer Place Antiques ...................................

Priscilla’s, the decorative touch....................

Victoria's closet .....................................................

Vc for men ...............................................................

Vivianne metzger Antiques .................................

Welcome Home Kitchen & Bath ........................

White rabbit Botanicals........................................

Zoller Hardware ...................................................... tess at chestnut square ....................................... tom sawyer tree Farm ........................................

Blue ridge Bedding ...................................................

Woof Gang Bakery..................................................... s’more Kids Klothes .................................................. mike’s club House ....................................................

Lotsa consignment shop .......................................... serVices Blue ridge self storage .................................... cashiers chamber................................................. cashiers exxon ................................................. crossroads upholstery .................................... english Green interiors....................................

Keystone Kitchen & Bath..................................... monday’s House of design .............................. nailz/Beauty secrets.............................................

Peter J. Pioli interiors ....................................... interior enhancements..................................... signal ridge marina ......................................... mountain Air Wellness ..................................... cashiers Printing .............................................. cashiers Valley Preschool ................................

View the Cashiers, North Carolina interactive map at www.thecashiersmap.com for addresses, phone numbers and website links to local businesses.

To promote your business in both the print version and on-line Cashiers Map for only $20 a month, email janet@themountainlaurel.com.

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CONTENTS

AccommodAtions the mountain Laurel inn ...................................

Arts Blue Valley Gallery................................................ cashiers Hillside Artists............................................ mountain mist Gallery .............................................. reAL estAte Betsy Paul Properties ............................................... mel’s mountain real estate ...................................... silver creek real estate Group ..........................

Landmark realty Group ............................................ restAurAnts Bella's Kitchen ........................................................ cafe 107 ..................................................................... carolina smokehouse....................................... cashiers exxon ....................................................... sweetreats/Wild thyme ........................................... sapphire Brewery & Pub ................................. tommy’s coffee shoppe.......................................

Zeke & earl’s ........................................................... the Zookeeper Bistro............................................ retAiL Bird Barn and Gift emporium ............................

Bounds cave ...........................................................

Brooking ....................................................................

Bumpkins ................................................................. cashiers condiment shop ............................... cashiers customs ............................................ cashiers exxon ................................................. cashiers Farmers market ................................... cashiers trading Post ........................................... catbird seat ....................................................... chattooga Gardens ................................................ cJ Brownhouse ....................................................... consignment market........................................... corner store ........................................................... crabtree cottage..................................................... d. estes Antiques .................................................. details of cashiers ............................................ dovetail Antiques ..............................................

Fiddlehead designs ...................................................

Highland Hiker.................................................

Mtn. LaureL ShoppeS Dining • Shopping • Real Estate Accommodations • Nail Spa

Slabtown Road off Hwy. 107 N. • Cashiers, NC

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Map of Cashiers

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The Arts

Cover Artist Alison Moody

by Krysti Rogers

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and the fine tuning of photography, but she also gained a new confidence to not be afraid to gamble on herself with each photo opportunity. She quickly learned to capture the shot in the moment, because in the blink of an eye, the “perfect shot” is gone.

Ali’s photography education has been hands-on. With each click and flash, she began trying new techniques and immersed herself further into reading and learning about her creative outlet. She chooses to continue learning and honing her talent, rather than becoming complacent with

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he digital age of photography has changed the way we see the world. While some still prefer the richness of film, the instant gratification of digital viewing and editing has raised a new age of photographers. Alison McClure Moody is a part of that new age, sharing her perspective of the world through digital eyes.

Ali’s foray into photography began with Christmas 2008, when she received a digital SLR as a Christmas gift from her husband, the gift that became twofold. Alison not only began getting familiar with the camera, her shooting style, lighting

The Arts

what she already knows. With each shot, Ali thrives on the challenge of critiquing her work, pursuing perfection with every snap of the shutter as her toughest critic.

Cutting her teeth on landscapes and botanicals, Ali is now expanding her reach into moving shots. With two energetic daughters and a son arriving this month, she is looking forward to honing those new skills. Children provide perfect photo-ops, assuming you can catch them.

Ali’s work has been featured locally in art shows and several area publications. Most prominently (not to mention

also highly beneficial) is that her photography is very much an integral part of her real estate career. A local REALTORÂŽ, Ali is a member of the White Oak Realty Group team where her talent focuses on providing clients with the best in expertise and cutting-edge technologies, not to mention great photos. Having the eye to see a property at its best while capturing it through the view finder provides a unique perspective rarely seen in real estate photography.

For more information on Ali and her photography, you may reach her at ali@whiteoakrg.com.

Alison Moody

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The Arts

Full Circle

by Donna Rhodes

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Frank Vickery gets fired up.

Golden Spiral, and the Great Mean (the most pleasing shape and “look” of a bowl is one-third base and twothirds body) are constants not only in Western art, but in art around the globe. My thesis exhibition will be at The Bascom next March.”

Insights such as these have had a huge influence on Vickery’s process, but so has his hands-on experience at The Bascom with Dr. Pat Taylor, accomplished potter and head of The Bascom’s ceramics studio program.

Vickery says, “Since I have been working with Pat Taylor and maturing in my me-

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dium, form and glazing, I am in a much better place to refine my process. In teaching I demonstrate and repeat directions several times a day.

This ingrains the process in my students and sharpens my own skills.”

What looks like an ordinary pot, vessel, or bowl to us, may speak volumes to Vickery. The clay’s shape, its positive and negative spaces, its volume, its texture, and the way light bounces around its surface all take on a richer, deeper meaning to him. He is tuned into clay’s mystical quality, which echoes a lineage of symbolic

forms cascading back a million years.

That connection is key to his work. “I try to take into account what the forms actually mean as I make them.”

For example, the humble circle is a mandala in Buddhist practice, the circle of life in African lore and the edges of the earth or a medicine wheel in Native American cultures.

Perhaps one of the reasons Vickery is so successful at his art is that he loves the firing process. He says, “I am not a pyro, but I love fire.

When I see the magic that flame and chemical change initiate, my mind is blown… and every firing is a whole new experience!”

If reading about Vickery has you all fired up, visit his website, www.frankshouseofmud.com or call The Bascom and sign up for one of his classes, (828) 526-4949. Schedule a play day with clay and explore your own connection to the world of symbol and beauty with an exceptional instructor, Frank Vickery.

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i v e b a c k in history five or six decades when Sigmund Freud plumbed the depths of our psyches and Carl Jung explored our collective consciousness with its complex universal symbols. Artists of that era pounced on the revelations of Freud and Jung, incorporating them into their work.

Salvador Dali’s mustache was practically spinning in the creative storm oneirology (dream study) stirred up.

Now, thanks to the advanced ceramics program at Western and a very gifted graduate student, Frank Vickery, the bond of art and Freud’s psychoanalysis remain central to today’s curriculum.

Vickery states, “I am taking a theory and criticism class where I am studying connections between philosophy, psychoanalysis, and art and how those connections have influenced art criticism in lthe ast 100 years. This has helped shape my new body of work and will be a major component of my thesis. Fibonacci’s number series, the

The Arts

The Bascom News

Giving Trees will be on display now through January 3rd.

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here’s plenty of holiday fun at The Bascom this season as we say farewell to the old year and welcome in the new.

Start by voting on your favorite Gingerbread House if you haven’t already done so. Cast your ballot now through December 9th from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Awards will be given at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 10th. The public is invited to the award presentation and who knows? Maybe you can sneak a bite of cornice or shutter!

While you are enjoying the gingerbread, be sure to see Giving Trees, The Bascom’s special presentation of beautifully decorated holiday trees for charity which will be on display now through January 3rd.

There’s still time to see Ben Owen: Ceramics, now through December 3rd. Tools in Motion will show now through December 23rd. And Do Tell environmental sculpture: Patrick Dougherty, closes out the year with its winter coat of wonder.

If you need ideas for the perfect seasonal gifts, visit The Bascom Gift Shop. Handcrafted shawls, pottery, jewelry, wearables, and so much more will guarantee oohs and ahs come Christmas morn.

If your gift recipient would rather make their own creations, why not register them for a class? How about a workshop in hand building or wheel throwing? Or that painting workshop they have been talking about? It’s your chance to make the world a more beautiful place by giving the gift of art. And your gift supports The Bascom so that it can keep on providing worldclass exhibitions, workshops, children’s programs, lectures and so much more. Check out the ongoing Ceramics Open Studio which meets most Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays in December. Confirm your session with Frank Vickery at the clay barn before registration. Ceramics classes are two separate sessions of Beginning and Beyond. These classes will focus on skill building and specific projects. Tuesday and Thursday sessions, December 6th through 15th, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, will focus on hand building. Tuesday and Thursday sessions, December 6th through 15th, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. will focus on wheel throwing. The cost for either two-week session is $125 for members and $150 for non-members.

To learn more about these events, exhibitions and classes, call The Bascom at (828) 526-4949.

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The Arts

Betsy Paul Art Raffle chiaroscur o painters at t h e Maitland A r t Cent e r under The Betsy Paul art raffle for the Cashiers Glenville Volunteer BarFire Department, will be held on December 31st. For more bara information, call (828) 743-0880.

T i f fany orn in Miami, Florida and Greg Kreutz, who studin 1957, David Berger ied under David Leffel at the began painting at the Art Students League in New age of thirty-two, after havYork. ing a life-altering, near-death For over eighteen years, experience. He experimentDavid has painted still life, ed with watercolor for four gaining a reputation for exeyears when he discovered a cuting extraordinary realism love for oil painting. He studwith his delicate lace and colied the works of the old world

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orful vases. In 2009, soon after moving in to his mountain home, he became inspired by the breathtaking beauty of the area. That is when he picked up his brushes and began creating landscape masterpieces.

David and his wife Julie, a successful jeweler, spend the winter months at their home in the quaint seaside town of Stuart, Florida, and the rest of the year they live in the picturesque mountains of Cashiers, North Carolina.

He has exhibited in galleries throughout the United States, and recently opened his own gallery, which is appropriately named “Mountain Mist Gallery of Cashiers.”

Viewers are invited to see each month’s raffle item on display from 9:00 a.m. to

5:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday at Betsy Paul Properties, 870 Highway 64 West, Cashiers, North Carolina.

Checks can also be mailed directly to the CashiersGlenville Fire Department, P.O. Box 713, Cashiers, North Carolina, 28717. For more information contact Betsy Paul Properties, (828)7430880.

“Artists receive promotion, winners receive a piece of art for a minimal investment, and the fire department gets crucial funding.

And don’t forget, tickets can be purchased in blocks of twelve for $60. They make a great gift,” says Paul. All of the proceeds from the art raffle go exclusively to the Cashiers-Glenville Fire Department.

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The Arts

HCP’s Annual Holiday Reading

by Wiley Sloan

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njoy one of our area’s most cherished traditions as you celebrate the season at the Highlands Cashiers Players’ performance of their Annual Holiday Reading. Reserve Thursday, December 15th at 7:30 p.m. and come to the Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center. Admission is free.

For more than fifteen years, we have been inspired by their stories and dramatic readings.

This year, Director Vangie Rich, brings a slightly new perspective to the production. She is joined by several talented writers and actors/actresses that we have all come to know and love.

Helen Moore, Mary Adair Leslie and Director Vangie Rich.

Hear original writings by Lee Lyons, Michelle Armor, Stuart Armor and Vangie Rich. You’ll leave this performance with an enhanced

vision of the holidays. What does the Old Masters painting of Madonna and Child by renowned 15th century Italian painter Giovanni Bellini

have in common with the 12 Days of Christmas?

Stumped? Let Michelle Hott and Lindy Womack, Donna Cochran, Jenny King, Mary Adair Leslie, Steve Hott, Jim Gordon, Curtis Rich, Helen Moore, Diane Rosazza and a secret mother and infant bring that vision to life.

Inspiring stories, humor, sentimental memories-there’s something for everyone in this holiday performance.

No tickets are needed. This is HCP’s gift to the community. Come early for a good seat. The Performing Arts Center is located at 507 Chestnut Street, just 4 short blocks from Highlands Main Street.

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The Arts

UMC’s Children’s Performance

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by Wiley Sloan | Photo by A Moment in Time Photography

the hillside thought when the e’ve all heard the night sky turned bright and the Christmas story many host of Angels started to herald times throughout the birth of the new child? Come our lives but never quite like listen as “Wooly and Booly”–two you will hear it when you join rapping sheep with long, curly the members of the Highlands hair share their insights into that United Methodist Church durspecial night. ing their Sunday morning service The animals in the stable in on December 4th. The melodic Jerusalem seldom saw camvoices of the children will bring els. How do you think they felt in the season in song and story. when they suddenly saw three This unique Christmas musical is long-legged animals with humps based on the story “None of Us “None of Us Will Ever Be the Same” will be presented on their back striding up to the Will Ever Be the Same” written at 10:50 a.m. at Highlands United Methodist Church stable with men dressed in long by the Rev. Wayne Williams, an on December 4th. robes on their back?

Atlanta pastoral counselor. Local Yes, we know the Wise Men writer, Luke Osteen, has cleverly and how they came to honor the King but you probably have adapted the story for this presentation.

Winter had invaded Jerusalem. Mary and Joseph were never heard the story quite like you will hear it this year from tired and it had begun to drizzle. Since the inn was full, they the Methodist children. Come celebrate the season as Les were offered room in the stable. Have you ever questioned Scott, Minister of Music leads this creative worship service. how the animals who shared the stable with them felt about The service begins at 10:50 a.m. The Church is located at having humans in “their abode”? Let Harry, the horse, and 315 Main Street, Highlands, and the site of the Town ChristCatherine, the cow tell you. Wonder what the sheep out on mas Tree. We look forward to seeing you there.

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Discover cashiers

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2

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s’ consignment shops

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3

Explore these shops in downtown Cashiers

Hwy. 64 W To Highlands

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3

Chestnut Square

4

Marmalade

Cashiers

Lance Rd.

5 Hwy. 107 N

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Alexander Gardens

6

Frank Allen Rd.

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dining

Southern Belles

by Wiley Sloan

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Hamburgers at Southern Belles are customer favorites. Start with a quarter pound of quality Angus sirloin and add your favorite toppings. The Philly Steak sandwich, the grilled chicken sandwich, the French Dip, the Reuben, and the classic BLT offer good alternatives when you prefer something other than burgers.

Choose a side of fries or the house specialGerman Potato salad or fresh slaw.

Homemade pickles and applesauce are available too.

Try out the flounder with fresh fruit chutney or one of the Belles’ great salads. Folks looking for a lighter fare enjoy the fresh salads. They have a variety to choose from so stop by often and try them all. The chicken salad plate is a real crowd pleaser, too.

Be sure to save room for one of the Belles’ homemade desserts. Fresh fruit pies (in season) and, banana pudding are customer favorites. Sweet potato

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pies fill the bill in autumn.

When you need a tasty meal, think about Southern Belles Restaurant. Gentlemen, let the ladies sleep in. Come on out and have a hearty breakfast. Ladies, Southern Belles is the perfect spot to gather with friends; birthdays, girls-dayout, even bridesmaid luncheons and more. Need to

have a business meeting?

There’s plenty of room for you and your clients to gather. There’s Wi-Fi, too. Lunch after church is always special when you stop at Southern Belles.

When the crowds begin to descend on you, call Southern Belles to help you prepare your meals.

Any of their fabulous entrees, vegetables or desserts can be prepared for takeout. Just call ahead and they’ll have it ready for you.

Yum! Yum! Stop by any day from Tuesday through Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at 3601 Cashiers Road (next door to Community Bible Church). Call them at (828)787-2299.

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tart your day with a hearty breakfast your grandmother would be proud of.

Whether you are looking for eggs and bacon with grits and biscuits or delicious yogurt topped with granola, fruit and walnuts or something in between, you’ll want to head to Southern Belles. Pancake lovers rave about the Belles’ cakes, which can be infused with fresh fruit. Choose your favorite ingredients and design your own omelet. Accompanied by hash browns and hot biscuits, it’ll be a breakfast to remember.

At lunchtime they always offer a “lunch special” that includes a meat and fresh vegetables.

Sweet potatoes are really good this time of year, as well as, green beans, squash casserole or fried okra. Owners Sherry and Buddy Kremser have lived in Highlands all of their lives so they know where all the best gardens are. They search out the “upick” farms to bring you the freshest items possible.

Their son Kirtis is the Chef. He has trained in numerous locations across the southeast to hone the skills that he uses today. He starts with the freshest ingredients available and then adds special techniques and spices to turn out the tastetempting treats that you demand at Southern Belles.

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dining

Celebrity Chef Hugh Acheson Southern celebrity chef Hugh Acheson to host wine dinner and book signing at The Farm at Old Edwards

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Hugh Acheson is the Chef/Partner of Five & Ten and The National in Athens, GA and Empire State South in Atlanta, GA. Acheson’s experience includes working under Chef Rob McDonald at the renowned Henri Burger Restaurant in Ottawa and in San Francisco as The Chef de Cuisine with Chef Mike Fennelly at Mecca, and later as Sous Chef with famed Chef Gary Danko.

he south’s hottest chef, Hugh Acheson, will host a wine dinner and book signing at The Farm at Old Edwards Inn on Friday, December 16th, 2011. Guests will enjoy a sumptuous feast from his upcoming cookbook prepared by Madison’s culinary team with wine pairings by Sommelier Curt Christiansen. They will also receive a personal signed copy of Hugh’s new cookbook, A New Turn in the South: Southern Flavors Reinvented for Your Kitchen released October 18th. The evening will take place in the southern mountain ambiance of wood, stone and cozy fires at the new Farm Pavilion at Old Edwards.

Acheson is the winner

of Food & Wine’s 2002 Best New Chef award, five-time Beard Award nominee. His cookbook focuses on classic French techniques, Southern cuisine and local ingredients.

The menu will include: Oysters on the Half Shell with Cocktail Sauce, Dill Pickle Mignonette and Sesame Crackers; Lyonnaise Salad with Bacon Vinaigrette, Poached Local Egg and Apple; Roasted Cauliflower Soup with Brown Butter, Bread Crumbs, Capers and Dill Whipped Cream; Rib Eye with Shaved Morels and Salsa Verde; “Not Your Mama’s” Brussels Sprouts and Saffron Braised Celery; Apple Brown Betty with

Sorghum Zabaglione Chef Acheson says, “I am excited to do a book dinner in the Highlands, a town that is very near and dear to our hearts and most especially to have it at the Farm at The Old Edwards Inn. The Old Edwards Inn is a place that believes wholeheartedly in the Southern Hospitality that has driven my career. I thank them for all they do and look forward to partnering with Chef Johannes on December 16th.”

Limited seating available. For more information call (828) 787-2625 or visit www.oldedwardsinn.com/ HughAcheson. The dinner is $160 per person exclusive of taxes and gratuities. Dinner price includes wine and signed cookbook.

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CONTENTS

For information on dining in Highlands and Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com/cashiersnc_dining.php & thelaurelmagazine.com/highlandsnc_dining.php

www.thelaurelmagazine.com | December 2011 | 57

dining

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Annual Christmas Dinner

The Dinner features a bufor the tenth time, Highfet of turkey, ham, and tenlanders and visitors will derloin, and all the “fixins” be treated to a fabulous, in the quiet elegance of the traditional Christmas meal Hudson House at Highlands prepared by one of Highlands’ Country Club. Donna Woods finest chefs, Lakeside Restaucontributes her now famous rant owner, Marty Rosenfield. dressing, an absolute favorite The Dinner has become a over the years. Martha Portradition for many here, and ter will insure a sweet endhas served as a fundraiser for ing with her mouthwatering many Highlands local nondeserts. Marty Rosenfield is profits. Over the last 10 years one of Highlands iconic Chefs close to $70,000 has been doand everything he prepares is nated to local organizations sheer excellence. Dinner will that serve the Highlands combe served from 11:00 a.m. ‘til munity.

A sumptuous Christmas Dinner, set for Highlands Country Club’s Hudson House, promises an unforgettable meal and vital funds for 5:00 p.m. and is by reservaThis year, we will be donata pair of local charities. For reservations, call (828) 526-5102. tion only. The buffet is $35 for ing our proceeds to R.E.A.C.H. adults, $15.00 for children 11 of Macon County and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Highlands. R.E.A.C.H. provides a safe and under, and kids 5 and under eats free.

Call Ricky Siegel today at (828) 526-5102 to reserve your haven and shelter to women and children who are victims of domestic violence and abuse while Big Brothers Big Sisters table, and join all your friends and neighbors at this Highhelps improve the lives of children by offering a safe, profes- lands tradition: Fabulous fare; all money goes to local nonsionally supervised and monitored “one on one” mentoring profits; and best of all, no dishes to wash! What better gift on Christmas Day? program.

CONTENTS

For information on dining in Highlands and Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com/cashiersnc_dining.php & thelaurelmagazine.com/highlandsnc_dining.php

58 | December 2011 | www.thelaurelmagazine.com

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Outdoor Dining

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Your Guide to the Restaurants of Highlands & Cashiers

Breakfast

Mountain Dining

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HiGHLANDS’ ReSTAuRANTS Altitude’s presents Karlings at Skyline Lodge • Flat Mtn. Road • 828-526-2121

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The Bistro at Wolfgang’s • 460 Main Street • 828-526-3807 Flip Side • 30 Dillard Road • 828-526-4241

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Fressers eatery • Helen’s Barn • 828-526-4188

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Highlands Smokehouse • 595 Franklin Road • 828-526-5000 *

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Ruka’s Table • 163 Wright Square • 828-526-3636

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Southern Belles Restaurant • 3601 Cashiers Road • 828-787-2299

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SweeTreats • Mountain Brook Center • 828-526-9822

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Pricing Guide Minimal, most entrees under $10 $$ Deluxe, most entrees $15-$20 Moderate, most entrees $10-$15 $$$ Grand, most entrees over $20

Highlands Restaurants Bistro on Main at Main Street Inn - 828-526-2590 The Brick Oven - 828-526-4121 Bryson’s Deli - 828-526-3775 Cafe 460 - 828-526-8926 Cyprus International Cuisine - 828-526-4429 Downhill Grill - 828-526-1663 El Azteca - 828-526-2244 Golden China - 828-526-5525 Highlands Hill Deli - 828-526-9632 Junction Cafe - 828-526-0994 Kelsey Place Restaurant - 828-526-9380 Lakeside Restaurant - 828-526-9419 Mountain Fresh - 828-526-2400 Pescado’s - 828-526-9313 Rosewood Market - 828-526-0383

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Sports Page - 828-526-3555 Subway - 828-526-1706 Buck’s Coffee Cafe - 828-526-0020 Cashiers Area Restaurants Ashbys - 828-743-7889 Bella’s Kitchen - 828-743-5355 Brown Trout Mountain Grille - 828-877-3474 Buck’s Coffee Cafe - 828-743-9997 Carolina Smokehouse - 828-743-3200 Chester’s Chicken at Cashiers Exxon - 828-743-5041 Chile Loco - 828-743-1160 Cornucopia - 828-743-3750 Four Season Grille - 828-743-4284 Grill at Jimmy Mac’s - 828-743-1180

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Happ’s Place - 828-743-2266 High Hampton Inn - 828-743-2411 Hunt Bros. Pizza at Cashiers BP - 828-743-2337 JJ’s Eatery and Canteen. - 828-743-7778 Mica’s Restaurant - 828-743-5740 On the Side at Cashiers Farmers Market - 828-743-4334 The Orchard - 828-743-7614 Rosie’s Café - 828-743-0160 Smoky Mountain Crab Shack - 828-743-0777 Subway - 828-743-1300 The Gamekeeper’s Tavern - 828-743-4263 Tommy’s Coffee Shoppe - 828-743-2010 Wendy’s - 828-743-7777 Wild Thyme Cafe - 828-743-5452 Zeke & Earl’s - 828-743-2010

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history

And Visions of Surgarplums

by Donna Rhodes

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CONTENTS

s a kid, there were on the pinball manight chines for before Christentertainmas I could ment.

Bill not conjure sold cigars, up a single cigarettes, dancing sugand candies. arplum. The He served best I could cherry cokes muster was and smashes an image of and somethe Sugarthing called plum Fairy ammonia from The coke.

AmNutcracker. I monium cardesperately bonate and wanted some ammonium delicious hydroxide sweet meat (though not to do the fanthe kitchen dango, if not cleaning in my head, kind) were at least on my mixed with tongue. Alas, a touch of peppermint alcohol and sticks and essential oils The Miller family plowing their field in 1897. Courtesy of the Highlands Historical Society. homemade of lemon, fondant were nutmeg and as plumy as cherry dipped in Ghirardelli lands Deli is today (formerly lavender to my mom could manage. She would be the quintessential House of Wong). give coke a zing. Sounds a hadn’t a sugarplum clue ei- sugarplum, but in 1600, long Each week Bill would run bit like spring cleaning for ther. before chocolate laid claim an ad in the paper inviting the gastros.

Recently I did some re- to our palates, sugarcoated folks to drop in for a “rich, Bills’ Soda Shop closed in search and discovered that ground-up fruits were quite creamy milkshake or a brac- 1972. Today Kilwin’s handsugarplums go back to the the rage. ing three-dip ice cream made ice cream and choco1600s. Resembling comfits Candies and sweets have soda,” His shop would fill lates and Sweet Treats satisfy (sugary seeded confections) gone through a huge evolu- with sweet-seekers who Highlands’ sweet tooth, but they were the size of plums tion since the 1600s. When would sit and sip and social- for over three decades the and sweet. There the simi- the sugar industry kicked ize. sweets at Bill’s Soda Shop larity to plums ends. They into high gear and refrigeraBill sold sandwiches, mag- were what danced in chilwere made of chopped tion became accessible, ice azines and newspapers, and dren’s heads at Christmas… dried fruits like currants figs, cream shops popped up ev- he even provided curb ser- and all year long. and raisins, mixed with sug- erywhere. In 1939 Bill Holt, vice to cars parked outside.

To read more sweet stories ar and pungent seeds like son of a local businessman, In his shop’s early days car- about Highlands, check out anise or cardamom, then opened Highlands’ first ice bonated water was made by Heart of the Blue Ridge by Ran boiled, shaped into a ball, cream parlor, Bill’s Soda hand, turning a crank to mix Shaffner. Or visit Highlands molded onto a wire stalk, Shop on the corner of 4th soda and water.

Historical Society online at and rolled in sugar. To me a and Main. It is where HighIn the back of the shop, www.highlandshistory.com.

history

Ham and Paul Childers: Cashiers Characters Contributed by Jane Gibson Nardy, Historian, Cashiers Historical Society

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n 1967, Rick Rodgers wrote an article for the Highlander titled “The Art of Woodworking,” which featured the Cashiers brothers Roy Hamilton “Ham” Childers and Paul Childers, owners of the Woodpecker Shop. Here are some excerpts from that article: “Woodworking, like so many craftsman trades is a vanishing art, yet a few craftsmen are still creating hand made furniture to custom design, such as the bachelor Childers brothers in Cashiers. Since 1942, every visitor to Cashiers has seen the work of these mountain men at High Hampton Inn, Cottage Inn, Cashiers Motel and Oakmont Lodge. Each piece of furniture is expertly created at the rustic shop on Hwy. 64 East. Most of the local homes in Cashiers have at least one piece of the Childers furniture, usually more.

There seems to be a constant flow of visitors and customers in the little shop, slowing down the work but giving Ham time to refill his

Paul Childers (middle) & his nephews, circa 1950

pipe and welcome newcomers.”

Now, over forty years after the above article was written, the Childers brothers have departed from this earth and are resting at the

Union Hill Cemetery, near Whittier, NC. While collecting memories about Paul and Ham from folks in Cashiers, I found “gone but not forgotten” is the right phrase to use. Most people

started off or finished up with the words, “They were good people. Everybody liked them.” They shared a house behind John Lee Rogers’ Gulf Station which was an easy walk to their shop. Right next door lived their sister, Alida Childers Pennington whose daughter, Tommie Pennington, worked in the shop making miniature rolling pins engraved “Cashiers, NC” which were sold as souvenirs in local gift shops. Johnnie Sue Rogers Frady was born on Ham Childers birthday, September 14th , and the two shared a birthday cake each year.

Paul was a talented musician, playing his fiddle at square dances about every weekend, always with Ham in attendance. They went to community centers, fish fries, and benefits of all kinds. Paul was the quiet one and Ham, with his big mustache and ever present pipe, was the more out-going type who enjoyed having a drink now and then. A hearty salute to these two Cashiers characters.

www.thelaurelmagazine.com | December 2011 | 63

CONTENTS

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literary

Highlands Writers Group Contributed by Lee Lyons Lee Lyons is a treasured member of the Highlands Writers. She and her family for several generations have been members of the Highlands community. Frequently you can catch her in a local play.

Switches “Johnny,” she yelled several times before he hit the shower Then left the house clicking the switches from upstairs to down in every room saving electricity.

Mama checked the drive and cut on I love Lucy.

All morning the sitcoms talked to no one Sound to fill the silence until daddy came home for lunch.

It never varied.

He ate a sandwich and took a nap until she yelled, “Johnny.”

Down he’d go, clicking switches out the door,

cranking the car several times before it started.

We’d wait for dinner. I’d hear her call.

Daddy strolled in unhurried, tie loose, smelling of cigarettes and beer to six little faces expecting a spanking.

Bed time quiet, the refrigerator opened, A top spinned on the kitchen floor, the lighter clicked.

Daddy pulled the old metal stool closer to the counter until she yelled, “Johnny.”

His steps heavy on the stairs clicking switches down the hall.

CONTENTS

66 | December 2011 | www.thelaurelmagazine.com

literary

Life With Krysti Contributed by Krysti Rogers

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hristmas. My favorite time of year. I love the tree, the lights, the wonder, the joy, the warmth and everything that is Christmas. There’s an effervescence that abounds from Turkey Day through December that is, for me, uncontainable. Is it the chill in the air? Is it finding the perfect gift for a friend? Maybe it’s the anticipation of seeing my daughters’ faces Christmas morning, watching Sarah studiously unwrap every gift, savoring each second until the gift is unveiled. Or, this year, seeing Mims - who still won’t really “get” Christmas - playing with the paper and ribbons with ridiculous joy.

Wait, I think that’s it. Ridiculous joy. Silly, giddy joy. That “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus” joy. It’s a joy that I think we can only get away with being excited about from Thanksgiving til Christmas. Somewhere in our adulthood we were told to put away our hope and good cheer after the holidays.

For the rest of the year, 24/7 we’re inundated with politics, gruesome headlines and the Kardashians. Those are minutes (and brain cells) we’ll never get back. We forget we’re allowed to – and should be happy, joyful even, about the gifts of everyday.

Santa may come and go, but it’s the little gifts we get all the time – the simple joys that are Christmas all year long.

Come on, think about it: your comfy slippers, your favorite song, a hot cup of coffee, that friendly bark at the end of the day, laughter, a ham biscuit, getting out of bed in the morning… duh, the list goes on of course. Whatever it is that moves you, comforts you, brings you joy, find it. Savor it. Most of all, share it. Be Santa every other 364 days of the year, get a fat sack of joy and pass it on to others, even – and especially – when they don’t deserve it.

This holiday season, after the tree has come down and the exchanges are done, keep joy - give it. We’re blessed beyond measure. Let’s live like it.

Happy holidays - and joy to you!

For information on Highlands & Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com/cashiersnc & thelaurelmagazine.com/highlandsc

www.thelaurelmagazine.com | December 2011 | 67

literary

“A Love Story: How God Pursued Me and Found Me” Contributed by Guy Fielding

68 | December 2011 | www.thelaurelmagazine.com

CONTENTS

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amantha Ryan Chandler’s book “A Love Story: How God Pursued Me and Found Me” is a story of surviving through grace. Her story is very real and frankly describes the war between the good and the bad from good’s perspective.

Her story is common in theme to many stories of today with the exception that she lived at a different level. Her life is a story of remarkable experiences and she was able to accomplish this because of her character and skills communicating from the heart.

Though the story is set in a fairytale life and the trip for the reader most exciting, the real story is when Samantha surrenders and the “Hand of God” reaches out and pulls her out of the cesspool she was swimming in to a place where she found grace smiling upon her.

The lessons here are full and the one that is repeated throughout the narrative is trust – trust in God and the profound power of faith.

Part of the book is set at the family farm in Highlands’ Horse Cove, but the bulk of it is in Atlanta and the rest of the world. It’s a story that’s intriguing, disturbing and, finally, bright and shiny with hope.

Look for information about area booksignings.

www.thelaurelmagazine.com | December 2011 | 69

Homes & Lifestyles

Mountain Charm Abounds

by Wiley Sloan

charm” to this mountain retreat. A twenty-kilowatt generator, low E-glass windows, electronic air cleaner and updated ductwork optimize your energy dollars; a real energy-efficient environment.

The large Great Room, which sports a stone fireplace runs the width of the house.

The run is large enough to entertain your whole family but cozy enough for you to enjoy when the gang’s all gone home. Imagine snuggling into your favorite armchair by the window while warm rays of sunshine flood the room or finish correspondence in the office nook near the dining room.

Store all of your cherished china and accessories in the glass front cabinets of the kitchen and Butler’s pantry.

The kitchen’s light-colored

70 | December 2011 | www.thelaurelmagazine.com

granite counter tops provide plenty of room for meal prep and serving. Build family memories around the large dining table as you celebrate special times together in the home’s formal dining room.

Double ovens make meal prep a breeze.

Feel like a king or queen in your large master bedroom suite with its own stone fireplace. The king bed is flanked by large windows overlooking the gently-rolling lawn and you still have scads of room for a comfy-cozy sitting area. The master bath and walk in closet complete this private abode.

Let your guests enjoy their own private quarters on the second floor. At the top of the stairs is a compact office area. Two large bedroom suites each with private bath will pamper your

guests. There’s an additional bedroom with hall bath that completes the upstairs.

On the terrace level you’ll find a garden room overlooking the surrounding countryside. There’s also a single car garage and a huge work room where even the most avid wood worker will have space for all his tools and projects.

In pristine condition, this house is ready for you. Bring your own toothbrush and your duds and you’re ready.

Located in the Cold Springs Saddle and Tennis Club, you benefit from having easy access to town but being surrounded by the beauty of nature. To learn more about this home contact Nadine Paradise at Harry Norman Realtors at (828) 371-2551 or contact Nadine at nadineparadise@gmail.com.

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entle breezes rustle the leaves of the decade-old trees on the rolling lawn overlooking a waterfall and reflecting pond. The birds serenade you as you rock on the covered porch that runs the length of the house. Tensions of the week melt away as you relax and re-energize.

Your lot adjoins the U.S. National Forest.

Enjoy the rustic charm of this log cabin without giving up any of the amenities that you savor in the city. This house has rough-sawn logs and rustic beams but it also has a heat pump to chase away the winter chill or keep you comfortably cool on warm summer days.

The quarter sawn treated pine shingles on the roof have a fifty-year warranty. Copper gutters add an “old world

Homes & Lifestyles

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Homes & Lifestyles

Concentrated Stock

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Contributed by Bill Zoellner , Financial Advisor at Wells Fargo Advisors in Highlands at (828) 787-2323.

any people find that a significant portion of their assets can accumulate in one particular stock. If you have a long career working for the same company or perhaps have acquired stock through inheritance, it’s easy to reach the point where this single holding is sizable enough that you want to evaluate your situation.

The list of tools or alternatives for managing a concentrated equity position may include gradually selling and repositioning; hedging alternatives for managing risk; estate planning and charitable techniques; or borrowing against your stock.

Often a combination of strategies is an optimal so-

lution. You can earmark a certain portion to sell, to hedge and to meet your tax and philanthropic goals.

Sometimes the simplest solution is best. You can gradually sell shares and reinvest the proceeds into other investments. Selling over time lets you spread your gain or loss over time as well as the attendant tax impacts and diversify and better control your financial situation.

With a substantial position in one stock, you may look for strategies that will help reduce your overall income and estate tax liabilities and help you achieve your philanthropic goals. There are charitable giving strategies that can provide you with a current income tax deduction, cre-

ate a continuing source of income for you or possibly your heirs, and provide a way to avoid paying current capital gains tax on appreciated assets.

A simple tax-efficient way to benefit the charitable organizations you support is to consider making your annual charitable gifts or pledges with appreciated stock instead of cash.

You will conserve your cash while avoiding the taxable capital gains you would create by selling the stock.

Determining which of these solutions is appropriate for your circumstances requires an in-depth evaluation of the stock you own, any restrictions you may be subject to, your financial position and your objectives.

For more information on Highlands and Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com/cashiersnc.php and thelaurelmagazine.com/highlandsnc.php

events and

happenings visit

highlands-cashierscalendar.com

72 | December 2011 | www.thelaurelmagazine.com

CONTENTS

For a comprehensive list of area

Homes & Lifestyles

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Spinal Decompression Therapy

eople of all ages suffer from some form of low back pain. I see many patients with low back pain, leg pain, weakness, muscle spasms, hip pain, knee pain, foot pain, numbness‌ The list goes on and the pain is miserable. The many causes of low back pain include muscle injury, sciatica, disc injury, pinched nerves, circulatory problems, kidney stones, uterine fibroids, hernias, digestive problems, spinal stenosis, arthritis, degeneration, and injury.

Medical doctors generally deal with back pain through medications, physical therapy and surgery. Natural medicine practitioners target low back pain with healing modalities such as chiropractic care, acupuncture,

massage and many other therapies including spinal decompression.

Spinal decompression therapy requires a special table that is designed to stabilize the body and stretch the area in the spine causing pain in a way that facilitates the body’s own healing abilities. The spine is gently lengthened and decompressed, creating negative pressure within the discs.

This negative pressure causes a vacuum within the discs, helping to relieve pressure on the surrounding tissues and pinched spinal nerves. Experts believe that this process also stimulates the body’s repair mechanism, providing an environment that draws oxygen and nutrients into the tissues. With help, the body can now begin its own heal-

ing process, which will help to repair the damage done to injured and degenerated discs and nerves.

The therapeutic action of spinal decompression takes place over several months and should only be implemented by a skilled practitioner. The tissues will continue to heal and remain healthy as long as the mechanism of injury is addressed and better habits are put in place. Take care of the initial pain before it becomes too much for the body to handle on its own. Spinal decompression therapy can also be used for prevention of more serious future back pain. Try spinal decompression therapy to alleviate immediate pain as well as possibly preventing interventions such as surgery or epidural injections.

Contributed by Dr. Sue Aery, Aery Chiropractic & Acupuncture (828) 526-1022

www.thelaurelmagazine.com | December 2011 | 73

Homes & Lifestyles

Token of Appreciation A Little Something For Your Party

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the gift itself: Lay the bag on its side on a table and scrunch tissue paper in the bottom of the bag.

Wrap the gift in tissue paper. I like to use brown bags with colored tissue paper. To add interest use more than one color of tissue paper.

Slide gift into bag and turn bag upright. Place two small sheets of paper inside the bag between bag opening and gift on each side, making sure the tissue paper extends above the top of the bag.

Tie the handles together with a small piece of scis-

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sor curled ribbon if the gift is small enough to accept

this. With almost no effort, you can make a great looking gift with wired fabric ribbon. Otherwise, just allow the handles to be separate. It’s easier to carry it this way.

Stick a card in the side of the bag. It’s an easier way to make the present look more personal.

Now the fun begins!

I like to brighten up the gift bag. Attach little fun things to your present.

Whether it is a piece of costume jewelry or a trinket you found at the craft store, it adds dimension to your gift. And even a casual walk through the yard can provide interesting items -- pinecones, leaves, flowers or berries.

Once you get into the spirit of making your gift bags a cheerful, unmistakable reflection of yourself, you‘ll discover an additional way to add excitement to the holiday preparations.

Contributed by Elizabeth Fletcher

Photo by Ali Deane

Cashiers and Atlanta resident Elizabeth Fletcher makes event planning and public relations seem as effortless and anxietyfree as a day at the spa. Part of that is predicated on her years of experience as the publisher of four regional bridal magazines, bridal events spokesperson for Federated and Belk department stores, and guiding force behind media campaigns for exclusive inns. Equally important are her boundless energy, effortless imagination and fanatical attention to detail. elizabeth@idoeventsatlanta.com

CONTENTS

he holidays are here and that means office parties, dinner parties, cocktail parties and many events that call for a gift to the hostess.

Gift bags are a nice way to spread the happiness and cheer that surrounds the holiday.

The most popular lastminute hostess gift by far is the bottle of wine. The majority of recipients enjoy it and it’s easy to pick up on your way to the party or even out of your own wine rack at home.

If you’re going to go this route, remember to remove the price tags. There’s nothing more annoying than investing your careful efforts into a gift only to realize you forgot to take the price sticker off. If you can’t remove the sticker, get a black pen and black out the price. You can also use a piece of tape -- if you put one end on the tag and pull it off, the price sticker will usually come with it.

The venerable technique of wrapping gifts in traditional paper can be a tedious chore and you run the risk of developing a backache from bending over, cutting and shaping. And let’s face it, there are far greater demands on your time during this busy holiday season.

The use of a gift bag is so much easier, neater and makes it easy to carry your present. It’s also a marvelous opportunity to show off your innate creativity. Here are a few easy steps to ensure that the gift bag gets almost as much attention as

www.thelaurelmagazine.com | December 2011 | 75

Waterfall Guide Cashiers Waterfalls Drift, Turtleback, Rainbow & Stairstep Falls In the Horsepasture Wild & Scenic River area - 64 E. to Sapphire; to Hwy. 281; .7 miles to gated road on left — follow trail.

John’s Jump 64 E. to Sapphire; to Hwy 281; 4.8 miles - park on shoulder and follow path.

King Creek Falls Hwy. 107 S.; about 13 miles; turn right on Burrells Ford Road — park at campground parking.

Schoolhouse Falls In Panthertown Valley - Hwy 64 E. to Cedar Creek Road; to Breedlove Road — park at dead-end.

Silver Run Falls Hwy. 107 S.; 4.1 miles from crossroads, look for gravel pull-off on left — follow trails.

Highlands Waterfalls Bridal Veil Falls Hwy. 64, can be seen from road.

Dry Falls Hwy. 64; turn at Dry Falls sign.

Glen Falls Hwy. 106 S., left at Glen Falls sign.

Kalakaleskies Falls Hwy. 64; just below Sequoyah Lake.

Lower Cullasaja Falls Hwy. 64 at pull-offs.

Picklesiemer Rockhouse Falls Hwy. 28 S. to Blue Valley Road; 4.3 miles - park at dirt road on right take trail - about 1 mile to falls.

Whitewater Falls Hwy. 64 E. to Sapphire, to Hwy. 281 — look for signs.

To view photos and videos of the waterfalls in Highlands and Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com/cashiersnc_outdoors.php and thelaurelmagazine.com/highlandsnc_outdoors.php 76 |76 July | December 2011 | www.thelaurelmagazine.com 2011 | www.thelaurelmagazine.com

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Upper & Lower Satulah Falls Hwy. 28 S.; both can be seen from road.

Service BEAUTY

CABinET dEsign

CABinET dEsign

PAinTing

COnsTrUCTiOn

TrEE sErviCE

mAssAgE ThErAPY

WEB dEsign

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78 | December 2011 | www.thelaurelmagazine.com

Stop and Shop

Cashiers Commons Hwy. 107 N. Cashiers

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giving back

Neither Rain, Nor Sleet, Nor Snow…

Contributed by Kathy Bub, Executive Director Forever Farms

...will keep us from caring for our special residents at the Forever Farm. With over a hundred cats, and as many as forty-five dogs, it takes many staff/hours to care for them. Fortunately, two of our employees, and I, live on the property. In this business there is no such thing as closing up shop due to the weather. If bad roads keep the other employees from getting to

the farm, those of us onsite can do what is necessary to keep the residents warm and fed.

Speaking of keeping them warm, one of our biggest needs through the winter months are funds to pay the electric and gas bills. They easily run over $1,500 a month during the winter. A wonderful way to help the Forever Farm would be a tax deduct-

ible donation to cover a day ($50), a week ($350) or even a month’s utility bills. Our entire budget is supported by donations and a few small grants - we depend on our supporters to stay in operation. I highly encourage everyone to visit the Forever Farm and see for yourselves what you are supporting. Just like any investment - you want to know that your philan-

thropic funds are truly productive. We also encourage our current and potential supporters to keep their financial giving local, where you can see for yourself the good your dollars are doing. Call Friends for Life at (828) 508-2460 and make an appointment to visit the Forever Farm and it’s special residents. Visit our website at www.friendsforlifeforeverfarm.org

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giving back

Who Owns the View?

T

Contributed by Gary Wein, Executive Director, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust

servation easehere are a ment.

In an number of easement the answers owners agree to to that queslimit their develtion. You could opment of their respond “Why lands forever. of course, God So next time does,” or peryou stop at the haps ”it belongs Big View and to Mother Nasay Thank God ture.” Or the for the incredone I really like Who protects this view? (HCLT=Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, PRV=private land owner, USFS=U.S. Forest Service). ible sight, take is, “it belongs to out some time all of us.” While gion. The 10 acres where the of course means they belong and also say a silent thank you all these statements may be picture was taken is owned by to the citizens of the United to the US Forest Service and true there is of course more the Highlands-Cashiers Land States) and the other four the Highlands-Cashiers Land to the story.

Trust, a property donated by are owned privately. Three of Trust and its donors.

The picture above was takthe Rhodes children. A more those nine peaks will forever The Highlands-Cashiers en at Rhodes Big View on Highdown to earth answer to the remain undisturbed in their Land Trust has been protectway 64 at the Macon-Jackson question of “Who owns this natural state because their ing lands for all generations County Line. The labels on the View” is that five of the nine owners, folks like the Warsince 1909. To find out more picture are the named feanamed peaks are owned by ren Family and Will McKee, about them check out their tures found on the USGS 7.5 the US Forest Service (which placed their land into a conwebsite at www.hicashlt.org. topographic maps for the re-

www.thelaurelmagazine.com | December 2011 | 81

giving back

The Rotary Club of Highlands Contributed by Slocum Howland

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ne of the highlights of the annual Highlands Christmas parade, held this year on December 3rd, is the appearance of Santa riding in the Rotary Flyer, escorted by members of The Rotary Club of Highlands. This special sled was built

by Rotary Club members many years ago and was originally pulled by our members, but due to several errant detours coming down hills it is now pulled by a motorized vehicle. Each year before the parade, Rotary members polish and decorate The Flyer.

Santa and Mrs. Claus are eagerly awaited as they bring up the rear of the parade and hand out candy and holiday greetings along the route down Main Street.

December signals the end of the year and is a good time to reflect on the many activities of The Rotary Club

Santa (Rotarian Buck Trott) and Mrs. Clause (Jane Chalker, wife of Rotarian Selwyn Chalker) ready for the Christmas parade.

of Highlands. “Service Above Self” is the bedrock foundation of Rotary International, our parent organization.

Our local club, with over 90 active members, hews to that goal. In 2011, our club contributed over $57,000 to numerous projects, both local and international. These ranged from Rotary International’s project to eliminate polio worldwide to support of our local Scout troops. Financial support is important but our members also give time and effort to projects as diverse as sponsorship of the annual Academic and Athletic Banquets for the students at Highlands School, Honor Air flights to Washington honoring our WW II veterans, and clean up of the roads leading to Highlands.

On behalf of the members of The Rotary Club of Highlands, Happy Holidays.

Valley Garden Club Contributed by Kathie Blozan

T

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he Valley Garden Club members recently had a workday at the Point and Post Office to put the gardens “to bed” for the winter. Fourteen energetic workers cut vegetation back and then planted bulbs for spring surprises.

The VGC is grateful to all who contribute toward the work of the Club. Raffle ticket sales and special contributions were generous this year, and we hope all enjoy seeing the results of our efforts while running around doing errands. The winner of the pink shell azalea painting by K. Blozan, Marilee Lipinski is a hiker who has had a passion for the outdoors since childhood. She celebrates the “God-given senses to enjoy the outdoors,” and requests that “at the end of my life on this great planet, bury me in the backyard under a tulip poplar, surrounded by ferns, wildflowers--and a few pink shells.”

The next project is designing a float for the Cashiers Christmas Parade on December 10th. We are hoping Maggi Reiman’s granddaughter will make a guest appearance this year as an angel.

Andrea Hannon (right) presents Marilee Lipinski the pink shell azalea painting which was raffled off this summer. Proceeds go toward New Century Scholars and the maintenance of gardens at the Point and Post Office in Cashiers.

aaaaaaaaaaaaaa Visit

Village Walk

Hwy. 107 S. • Cashiers, NC

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Giving Back

In the Blink of an Eye Contributed by Sue Blair, Carpe Diem Farms Executive Director

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To read more on the philanthropic efforts in Highlands and Cashiers www.thelaurelmagazine.com/news 84 | December 2011 | www.thelaurelmagazine.com

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n the blink of an eye change occurs. In my life my very special Aunt Sissy, my Godmother, my friend, my confidant, my supporter and most of all, my hero just passed away. There is a huge void in the space she occupied and my life changed. She never quite “got” what I was up to at Carpe Diem Farms and yet she was always excited for me, she kept me, together with the farm on the top of her very lengthy prayer list.

Aunt Sis was the breath of God; uncomplicated…she lived simply and simply lived. She demonstrated Grace in her every action. She supported everyone’s dreams and aspirations, she never sought fame or fortune, she just was…she never looked for praise, she exuded goodness, love, and friendship. My gratitude has to come from having had the privilege of knowing her and most of all for having been loved by her. She was the breath of God; when I was weary she filled my cup, disappointed or heart broken, she gave me strength to carry on---she was the glue of my life. She demonstrated an attitude of thankfulness and deep appreciation, she was the very essence of joy.

To me, that’s what this season of the year is all about; thankfulness, appreciation and joy. As this year comes to a close we examine the happenings of the prior months and dream of the opportunities and possibilities that are our future in the coming year. The holidays provide us with a reminder to be grateful for our blessings; our friends, our families. We are reminded of the importance of our health. At this time of gift giving I am reminded of the gift that Aunt Sis was to me. She was always present in my life...she was the present, a box tied with ribbons which I can untie in my memory bank whenever I need to feel close to her. My hope is that you too have such a present in your life; acknowledge it, be grateful for it.

All of us at Carpe Diem Farms wish you the blessings of the season and the hopes of the gift which is the New Year.

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Save Money and Energy Contributed by Michelle Price, Executive Director, Jackson-Macon Conservation Alliance

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system is not properly sized and installed, your home may develop humidity problems. However, no matter how efficient your new heating system is; if you haven’t sealed and insulated your house you haven’t maximized your investment or your comfort level. Sadler, stressed, “Your house is a system.

Everything we do in our homes is connected”.

Become aware of your energy use and cost by requesting a history from your power company. Understanding your current use allows you to set a benchmark so you may monitor benefits while implementing solutions. Steps that can save significant energy include installing

faucet aerators and providing shade for your outdoor air compressor. Simply set your water heater to 115 degrees F, your thermostat at 75 degrees in the summer and 68 degrees in the winter.

We spend a lot of time in our homes and every home leaks air. To maximize your comfort and minimize your energy use, be sure your home is sealed and well insulated. An average home leaks air through the ceiling into the attic; through the walls; through the windows, and into the floor.

You can reduce energy use by 20 percent, just by sealing air leaks in your home.

Sadler advised starting in the attic, using the spray can foam insulation to seal

around the gaps in wiring, plumbing vents, electrical boxes, attic doors, the chimney, drywall, framing, and anywhere you can feel air or see light coming through.

Be sure to seal similar areas in the basement and to seal the crawlspace.

Sealing ductwork with mastic and installing weather stripping around all exterior doors will offer savings too. The next step is to be sure your home is properly insulated to maximize savings.

To learn more visit www. wncgbc.org.

Source of this information: Article in The Highlander, by Jessica Webb and the Sustainable Energy Solutions Event at the Nature Center- compiled by Michelle Price, J-MCA

For a comprehensive list of area

events and

happenings visit

highlands-cashierscalendar.com

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s the cost of energy continues to rise, saving energy becomes more important to many.

The Jackson-Macon Conservation Alliance invited Jake Sadler with the Western North Carolina Green Building Council to lead the community through the pyramid of conservation. He started with many simple no to low cost steps then climbed to fewer more costly solutions.

Mr. Sadler advises us not to skip steps in this pyramid “unless it’s necessary,” he said. For example, your heat pump may stop working and suddenly you need a new heating system. One thing to consider would be what size unit is right for your home. If your new

giving back

New Computer Lab at Literacy Council Contributed by Tonya Hensley, Literacy Council of Highlands Executive Director

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lies will enjoy dinner, activities, and a ith the addition of our new reading of the book. This promises to portable computer lab, this be a fun and exciting night for all. winter promises to be busy.

Our Giving Tree will be on display The lab, which contains eleven laptops at the Bascom from November 12 and a state-of-the-art projector, was through January 3. In addition, the made possible through grants from space-themed art that our afterthe Dollar General Literacy Foundaschool enrichment students have tion and the Town of Highlands. It will been working on with Kat Evans will be used for instruction in Microsoft be displayed in the children’s gallery Word and Excel, ESL and GED classfrom December through early spring. es, and our after-school enrichment This installment will feature constellaprogram. The lab is also available for tions, planets, and even aliens! Stop public use. Please contact us for more by and see both our tree and our art. details.

We will be wrapping up the MobiThis December, we have lots of fun lizing Literacy program we have been things in store. First is the Christmas As always, The Literacy Council of Highlands will doing at local preschools and kinderparade on December 3rd, where we hand out books to the girls and boys during garten classes. This program was once will once again hand out books to the the Christmas parade. again made possible by a grant from girls and boys along the route. Last the North Carolina Community Founyear, we handed out nearly five hundation. It has been an exciting and successful program with dred books!

After the parade, join us at the Presbyterian church for ‘Tis lots of participation from the girls and boys. They have learned the Season, Highlands’ alternative gift market, where you can about classic paintings from the Bascom’s Katy Calloway, and visit our display, learn what we do for the community, and make enjoyed books and created art with Miss Judy from the Literacy a donation. This is an excellent gift idea for those who have ev- Council. Throughout the program, we have given books to parerything – give a donation in their name to the Literacy Council! ticipating children - one per visit - for a total of four books each.

All our programs, events, and services are free to the public.

Our family literacy event, based upon the book The Polar Express, is set for December 13th from 5:30-7:00 P.M. Fami- For information, please call Judy or Tonya at (828) 526-0863.

To read more on the

philanthropic efforts in

Highlands and Cashiers, visit

thelaurelmagazine.com/news

www.thelaurelmagazine.com | December 2011 | 87

giving back

Gilliam’s Promise Helping Youth through Life’s hurdles

by Wiley Sloan

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All of us need to follow their lead and support our youth. Leadership Highlands is working with the youngsters to strengthen their organization and leadership skills so that the Club will optimize their opportunities. The Highlands-Cashiers Hospital is providing “job shadowing”-a learning experience where students learn about the many facets of job in the healthcare industry.

Gilliam’s Promise invites students from sixth grade through high school seniors living in the 28741 zip code to consider the program. Participants must maintain proper grades, be drug-free and show a commitment to the program. Monthly meetings allow students to learn from experts in the field about ways to identify and overcome pitfalls that might challenge them.

David Long loves to tell others about Gilliam’s Promise. He said, “My church has always been a strong influence for me, but Gilliam’s Promise adds another dimension where adults and youth throughout the community can join together for good”.

Jessica Tilson, another GP club member says, “Drugs and alcohol are readily accepted within certain groups of teens. It’s reassuring to know that all of us in Gilliam’s Promise share common values”.

There’s so much more I would like to tell you about Gilliam’s Promise but space is limited. To learn more go to www.gilliamspromise.org or call Pam Ward at (828) 5262220. Join the GP 5K run on December 3rd before the Highlands Christmas Parade. If you would like to donate to Gilliam’s Promise, please send your checks to P O Box 592, Highlands, NC 28741.

To read more on the philanthropic efforts in Highlands and Cashiers, visit www.thelaurelmagazine.com/news

88 | December 2011 | www.thelaurelmagazine.com

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ur Highlands Community seems so peaceful and serene that we sometimes overlook the challenges that lurk about in the dark shadows. While things in Highlands are good, we can’t sit blindly by and think that nothing bad is going to happen.

That’s why the folks at Gilliam’s Promise (GP) established a program to help young people overcome challenges that the world throws at them related to the use and abuse of hazardous substances like drugs and alcohol. Gilliam’s Promise Executive Director Pam Ward says “through innovative, comprehensive and rewarding programs we focus on ensuring that Highlands is a drug-free community”.

Think back to your days as a student.

Peer pressure bombarded you with challenges to try a cigarette, a sip of alcohol or some other substance.

Today, youngsters face even harder choices than we did.

Families are struggling through divorces or economic problems. More and more unsavory characters offer substances that will “relieve that depression” or “overcome that anxiety”. TV shows and movies glamorize drugs and alcohol.

With positive reinforcement via Gilliam’s Promise, our youth know that they can say NO to all of these negative influences. The program was started because Bill and Eleanor Cheney did not want other grandparents to experience the pain that they encountered following the events of September 21, 2009 when their grandson, Gilliam, took his life because of his involvement with drugs.

www.thelaurelmagazine.com | December 2011 | 89

Giving Back

Interesting Facts About Dogs Contributed by Ben Kane, Executive Director, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society

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was surfing the internet a few days ago and I came across an interesting website, randomhistory. com. There was an article called 99 fun facts about dogs. Below are some facts you may find interesting from the article.

Small quantities of grapes and raisins can cause renal failure in dogs. Chocolate, macadamia nuts, cooked onions, or anything with caffeine can also be harmful.

Dogs have sweat glands between each pad of their paws.

Dalmatians are com-

pletely white at birth.

A puppy is born blind, deaf, and toothless.

The Basenji is the world’s only barkless dog.

The smallest dog on record was a matchbox-size Yorkshire Terrier. It was 2.5” tall at the shoulder, 3.5” from nose tip to tail, and weighed only 4 ounces.

Zorba, an English mastiff, is the biggest dog ever recorded. He weighed 343 pounds and measured 8’ 3” from his nose to his tail.

Hollywood’s first and arguably best canine superstar was Rin Tin Tin, a fiveday-old German Shepherd

found wounded in battle in WWI France and adopted by an American soldier, Lee Duncan. He would sign his own contracts with his paw print.

There are an estimated 400 million dogs in the world.

The U.S. has the highest dog population in the world.

Petting dogs is proven to lower blood pressure of dog owners.

Greyhounds appear to be the most ancient dog breed. “Greyhound” comes from a mistake in translating the early German name

Greishund, which means “old (or ancient) dog,” not from the color gray.

The oldest dog on record was an Australian cattle dog named Bluey who lived 29 years and 5 months. In human years, that is more than 160 years old.

Dogs can smell about 1,000 times better than humans. While humans have 5 million smell-detecting cells, dogs have more than 220 million.

For more information about the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society visit www.chhumanesociety.org or call (828) 743-5752.

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giving back

Make Your Donations Go Twice as Far

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Your donations will be helpelp deliver the magic of ing children, your community the holidays. Drop off and your nation. Your action your toys for Toys for today will help produce leaders Tots at Warth Construction’s offor tomorrow. Help us “make a fice and they will match every difference.” It is the only way toy donated with $10. we can accomplish the misToys for Tots is the Marine sion of giving every child the Corps’ premier community acmessage of hope on Christmas tion program. For over half of a morning. century, Marines have been the We would like to thank all unchallenged leaders in looking who helped make 2010 a sucafter needy children at Christcessful year. With your help, mas. The Toys for Tots message our area raised 11,436 toys last of hope for the future has moyear. We hope to make 2011 an tivated youngsters to grow into even better year. responsible, productive, patriotWarth Construction will match every toy donated with $10 during For every toy received at ic citizens and community leadthe annual Toys for Tots drive. their office, Warth Construcers. Toys for Tots has earned the tion has committed to donatdistinction as a program which plays an important role in helping youngsters emerge from a ing $10 to Toys for Tots. Make Your Donations Go Twice as Far background of poverty to adulthood as assets to society. Toys and bring your Un-wrapped new toys to 330 Spring St Highlands for Tots not only benefits children but also has a positive impact (the corner of Spring Street and Second Street behind the Reon communities, on businesses - large and small, on the Marine gions bank). They are open from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday Corps and on the nation. Toys for Tots is one vehicle for address- through Friday. If you have any questions please call their office (828) 526-4929. ing the issue of poverty among children.

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REACH of Macon County

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what she wanted for Christmas EACH of Macon County for her two children. The cliannounces that Virginia ent said a coat and another arParrott has been named ticle of clothing. Not toys. Then the 2011 Volunteer of the Year the client was asked what she for REACH of Macon County. would like for herself, the client REACH provides emergency replied, “a load of firewood.” shelter and wrap-around serSome things you do not forget; vices for victims of domestic viothis was one. lence and sexual assault as well In December 2009 Mrs. Paras educational programs on rape rott, with the help of Diane prevention and anti-bullying.

McPhail, gathered a group of Mrs. Parrott, a resident of about a dozen women who met Highlands since 1990, has for lunch at SweeTreats. This worked tirelessly to support the meeting resulted in the formamission of “Random Women Elbie Stiles, the founder of REACH of Macon County presents tion of “Random Women.” Men and Men” or RW&M, a HighVirginia Parrott with the 2011 Volunteer of the Year award. soon became interested in suplands group of volunteers who porting the efforts of REACH. support REACH. When asked This varied group of people what motivated her to form this group of volunteers, she said that several years ago, she was evolved into “Random Women & Men”.

Anyone wishing more information on RW&M may contact, in a beauty salon seated next to a woman who worked for REACH. This was just before Christmas. Mrs. Parrott over- Virginia Parrott at (828) 200-0997 or Barbara Werder at (828) heard this woman say that she had just asked a REACH client 526-9534 or cell (352) 446-0156.

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Business

Stunning Designs in Diamonds

A

by Luke Osteen

dell Jones is a long-time resident of Highlands and has worked in the jewelry industry for well over 25 years.

During her years of expertise she has developed a keen eye for quality custom designed jewelry. She visits Drake’s Diamond Gallery regularly and one afternoon saw and fell in love with a cuff bangle that was in the final stages of completion.

Within a week, the final and finished product was delivered to a very happy and satisfied customer.

Adell Jones (left) admires the custom cuff Adell follows in the bangle designed by Wanda Drake (right). footsteps of hundreds of Drake’s satisfied customers. Over the design a piece of jewelry course of its 25-plus years, that would reflect the deep Drakes Diamond Gallery has beauty of Mrs. Carter. Look established a reputation for closely, and you’ll see her stunning jewelry that’s both wearing it in interviews and elegant and playful. on special occasions.

Elegant? When the inPlayful? When Wanda ternational group Women designed a 30-plus carat of Vision recognized Rosal- diamond bracelet for Big Boi ynn Carter for her work on of the group Outkast, the behalf of the needy, they larger-than-life performer year’s Emmy telecast. Sure turned to Wanda Drake to urged her to watch that enough, when Big Boi won

an Emmy for his work on a Rosa Park television special, there he was at the podium flashing that unmistakable bracelet and giving a quick wave and shout-out to Wanda at home.

It’s just that way for Wanda – people from around the world come to her gallery for something that’s as unique and dazzling as they are.

Be sure to visit Drake’s Diamond Gallery at 152 South Second Street in Highlands.

For more information, call (828) 526-5858.

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Business

Highland Hiker Expands

by Luke Osteen

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cover an exciting lineup of n a bold move that promchildren’s outdoor wear; an ises great things for outirresistibly expanded coldoor adventurers and lection of maps and books; the people who love them, a showroom for the finest Highland Hiker is expanding in tents and sleeping bags; into a suite of three storeand, incredibly, even more fronts at the Falls on Main, men’s and ladies’ mountain linking Highland Hiker Shoes casual clothing. with The Cabin Store.

As you’re preparing your That means shoppers Holiday Shopping List, keep will have an unprecedented in mind that the Highland opportunity to browse from Hiker Sale Warehouse has The Cabin Store, with its a full display all of its clearoutdoor clothing for men ance items – there’s a and women, hiking supplies, closeout sale through the and its vast selection of flyJonathan Wilkes greets visitors to the expanded Highland Hiker at the Falls on Main. end of the year! That in fishing gear, all the way itself demands a careful to Highland Hiker Shoes, where they can slide their feet into stylish, comfy shoes browse.

For more about Highland Hiker and the selection of and boots from Mephisto, Keen, Uggs, Columbia, Merrill, Chaco, Dansko, Vasque, Patagonia, OTBT, The North Face, wonderful products that has made it a Highlands destinaNaot and many more. tion for over 30 years, visit the long stretch of shops and And along the way, in those new storefronts, they’ll dis- the cabin at the east end of Main Street.

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Srebalus Construction Co. Sweetwater Builders Warth Construction Cards Bird Barn and Gift Emporium The Corner Store The Dry Sink Caterers Fressers Eatery The Kitchen Carryaway & Catering Chambers of Commerce Cashiers Chamber of Commerce Chocolates Kilwin’s Churches First Presbyterian Church Wayfarers Unity Clothing & Accessories 4th Street Boutique Acorn’s Boutique Annawear Bags on Main Bear Mountain Outfitters Cabin Casuals Cowboys and Divas Ellen’s Highlands Hiker McCulley’s Nora & Co. Peak Experience Priscilla’s Decorative Touch Sorelle Design Studio Spoiled Rotten Three Bears Classic Children’s Clothing TJ Bailey for Men To The Nines VC for Men Victoria’s Closet Victoria’s Sportswear Vivace Vivace Too Wit’s End Cloth/Upholstery Wilhites Clothing Consignment The Blue Elephant Victoria’s Closet Comforters Blue Ridge Bedding Dutchman’s Designs Communities Silver Creek Real Estate Group Condiments The Hen House Construction Companies Potts Construction Larry Rogers Construction Cosmetic Surgery Center for Plastic Surgery Robert T. Buchanan, M.D.

www.sweetwaterbuilders.com www.warthconstruction.com

Page 73 Page 22 Page 18A

www.thedrysink.com

Page 9 Page 79 Page 25

www.fresserseatery.com

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www.thekitchenofhighlands.com

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www.cashiersnorthcarolina.com

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www.highlands4118.com

Page 52

www.fpchighlands.org www.wayfarersunity.org

Page 10 Page 92

www.acornsboutique.com

www.cabincasuals.com www.cowboysanddivas.com www.highlandhiker.com www.peakexp.com www.sorelledesignstudio.com www.spoiledrotten2.com www.threebearshighlands.com www.tjbmens.com www.victoriasclosetnc.com www.victoriasclosetnc.com www.victoriasclosetnc.com

Page 28 Page 82 Page 59 Page 71 Pages 18B, 23 Page 5 Page 92 Page 79 Page 45 Pages 7, 54, 88 Page 79 Page 84 Page 81 Page 28 Page 9 Page 46 Page 41 Page 26 Page 49 Page 49 Page 49 Page 27 Page 27 Page 25 Page 6

www.victoriasclosetnc.com

Page 29 Page 49

blueridgebeddingandfurniture.com www.dutchmansdesigns.com

Page 65 Pages 30, 33

www.ncliving.com

Pages 11, 43 Pages 3, 18B Page 29 Page 62

www.plasticsurgerytoday.com

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Accommodations Country Club Properties www.ccphighlandsnc.com Page 2 Fire Mountain Inn & Cabins www.firemt.com Page 6 Mountain Laurel Rest www.mountainlaurelrest.com Page 88 Old Edwards Inn www.oldedwardsinn.com Page 4 Skyline Lodge www.skylinelodge.com Page 53 Whiteside Cove Cottages Page 83 Antiques & Home Furnishings Bound’s Cave www.boundscave.com Page 17 Bumpkins www. bumpkins-cashiers.com Page 75 CK Swan www.ckswan.com Page 44 Cashiers Customs Page 98 Details of Cashiers www.detailsofcashiers.com Page 78 Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com Pages 30, 33 Greenleaf Gallery www.greenleafgallerygifts.com Page 40 Into the Woods Home Interiors Page 20 LOTSA Consignment Page 48 Mirror Lake Antiques Page 28 Museum of American Cut & Engraved Glass Page 86 Oakleaf Flower & Garden Page 77 Peak Experience www.peakexp.com Page 84 Scudder’s Galleries www.scuddersgalleries.com Page 42 The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com Page 35 Art Galleries/Artists Around Back at Rocky’s Place www.aroundbackatrockysplace.com Page 40 The Bascom www.thebascom.org Page 91 Blue Valley Gallery Page 34A CK Swan www.ckswan.com Page 44 Cashiers Hillside Artists Page 46 GG’s Consignments Page 48 Greenleaf Gallery www.greenleafgallerygifts.com Page 40 Highlands Fine Art Page 8 Into the Woods Home Interiors Page 20 Mountain Mist Gallery Page 46 Museum of American Cut & Engraved Glass Page 86 Oakleaf Flower & Garden Page 77 Peak Experience www.peakexp.com Page 84 Peter J. Pioli Interiors www.macdonaldhomeconstruction.com/interior.html Page 6 Scudder’s Galleries www.scuddersgalleries.com Page 42 TJB The Gallery www.tjbgallery.com Page 41 Beauty Salons Creative Concepts Page 73 Head Innovations Page 73 Bedding/Linens Blue Ridge Bedding blueridgebeddingandfurniture.com Page 65 Details of Cashiers www.detailsofcashiers.com Page 78 Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com Pages 30, 33 Into the Woods Home Interiors Page 20 Lenz Gifts Page 44 Bird Supplies Bird Barn and Gift Emporium Page 9 Books The Book Nook Page 25 The Corner Store Page 79 Bridal Shops Cowboys and Divas www.cowboysanddivas.com Page 92 Builders Arrowood Construction www.arrowoodconstruction.com Page 71 Lupoli Construction www.lupoliconstruction.com Page 41 Mountainworks Design www.mtnworks.com Page 80 Potts Construction Page 29

INDEx OF ADVERTISERS Custom Cabinetry Black Rock Granite & Marble Cashiers Customs Keystone Kitchen & Bath Welcome Home Kitchen & Bath Custom Countertops Black Rock Granite & Marble Keystone Kitchen & Bath Welcome Home Kitchen & Bath Custom Furniture Cashiers Customs Cashiers Hillside Artists Dutchman’s Designs Mountain Mist Gallery The Summer House Dentists Dr. Mason Dr. Joe Wilbanks Sylvan Valley Family Dentistry Electrical/Electric Zoller Hardware Events The Bascom Cashiers Christmas House First Presbyterian Church Fabric/Upholstery Dutchman’s Designs Into the Woods Home Interiors Wilhites FIREWOOD Highlands Lawn & Garden Florists Fiddlehead Designs Oakleaf Flower & Garden Furniture Blue Ridge Bedding Bumpkins Cashiers Customs Consignment Market Details of Cashiers Dutchman’s Designs Highlands Fine Consignments Into the Woods Home Interiors LOTSA Consignment Nearly New Oakleaf Flower & Garden Reeves The Summer House Furniture Consignments The Blue Elephant Consignment Market GG’s Consignments Highlands Fine Consignments Nearly New Furniture Refinishing Furniture Barn Garden Supplies Bird Barn and Gift Emporium Highlands Lawn & Garden Zoller Hardware Gift Shops Around Back at Rocky’s Place

www.blackrockgraniteandmarble.com www.keystonekb.com www.welcomehomecashiersnc.com www.blackrockgraniteandmarble.com www.keystonekb.com

www.dutchmansdesigns.com www.summerhousehighlands.com

Page 21 Page 98 Page 73 Page 73 Page 21 Page 73 Page 73 Page 98 Page 46 Pages 30, 33 Page 46 Page 35

www.joemasonmd.com www.wilbankssmilecenter.com

Page 17 Page 47 Page 93

www.zollerhardware.com

Page 75

www.thebascom.org

Page 91 Page 32 Page 10

www.fpchighlands.org www.dutchmansdesigns.com

Pages 30, 33 Page 20 Page 6 Page 82 Pages 21, 22 Page 77

blueridgebeddingandfurniture.com www. bumpkins-cashiers.com www.detailsofcashiers.com www.dutchmansdesigns.com

www.reeveshomefurnishings.com www.summerhousehighlands.com

Page 65 Page 75 Page 98 Page 49 Page 34B Pages 30, 33 Page 90 Page 20 Page 48 Pages 48, 79 Page 77 Page 76 Page 35 Page 29 Page 49 Page 48 Page 90 Pages 48, 79

www.thefurnitureman.com

Page 92

www.zollerhardware.com

Page 9 Page 82 Page 75

www.aroundbackatrockysplace.com

Page 40

Bird Barn and Gift Emporium Page 9 Bumpkins www. bumpkins-cashiers.com Page 75 Cashiers Valley Pharmacy Page 76 The Corner Store Page 79 The Dry Sink www.thedrysink.com Page 25 Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com Pages 30, 33 Lenz Gifts Page 44 LOTSA Consignment Page 48 Nora & Co. Page 79 Priscilla’s Decorative Touch Page 81 Stone Lantern www.stonelantern-highlands.com Page 100 Zoller Hardware www.zollerhardware.com Page 75 Golf Cars Appalachian Golf Cars www.appalachiangolfcars.com Page 86 Gourmet Foods The Hen House Pages 3, 18B Dusty’s Page 71 Grading/Excavating Larry Rogers Construction Page 62 Grocery Stores Dusty’s Page 71 Hair Salons Creative Concepts Page 73 Head Innovations Page 73 Hardware Supplies Zoller Hardware www.zollerhardware.com Page 75 Heating and Air Madco Page 86 Home Accessories Bird Barn and Gift Emporium Page 9 Bumpkins www. bumpkins-cashiers.com Page 75 Cashiers Customs Page 98 Details of Cashiers www.detailsofcashiers.com Page 34B The Dry Sink www.thedrysink.com Page 25 Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com Pages 30, 33 GG’s Consignments Page 48 Highlands Fine Consignments Page 90 Into the Woods Home Interiors Page 20 Lenz Gifts Page 44 Oakleaf Flower & Garden Page 77 Peak Experience www.peakexp.com Page 84 Priscilla’s Decorative Touch Page 26 Stone Lantern www.stonelantern-highlands.com Page 100 The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com Page 35 Ice Cream Kilwin’s www.highlands4118.com Page 52 SweeTreats Page 54 Zoller Hardware www.zollerhardware.com Page 75 Interior Design & Home Furnishings Blue Ridge Bedding blueridgebeddingandfurniture.com Page 65 Bound’s Cave www.boundscave.com Page 17 Bumpkins www. bumpkins-cashiers.com Page 75 Details of Cashiers www.detailsofcashiers.com Page 78 Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com Pages 30, 33 Into the Woods Home Interiors Page 20 Peter J. Pioli Interiors www.macdonaldhomeconstruction.com/interior.html Page 6 Priscilla’s Decorative Touch Page 81 Raffa Design Associates www.raffadesignassociates.com Page 16 The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com Page 35 Zoller Hardware www.zollerhardware.com Page 75 Investment Planning Wells Fargo Advisors Page 68

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Jewelry - Fashion Cashiers Hillside Artists CK Swan Ellen’s Greenleaf Gallery Peak Experience Sorelle Design Studio Spoiled Rotten Vivace Vivace Too Jewelry - Fine Drake’s Diamond Gallery East and West Limited Highlands Fine Art Mirror Lake Antiques Scudder’s Galleries Stone Lantern Kitchen Accessories Bird Barn and Gift Emporium The Dry Sink The Summer House Zoller Hardware Landscapers Travis Russell Landscaping Supplies Highlands Lawn & Garden Lighting Bumpkins Cashiers Customs Dutchman’s Designs Into the Woods Home Interiors Lenz Gifts

www.ckswan.com www.greenleafgallerygifts.com www.peakexp.com www.sorelledesignstudio.com www.spoiledrotten2.com

Page 46 Page 44 Page 79 Page 40 Page 84 Pages 28 Page 9 Page 27 Page 27

www.scuddersgalleries.com www.stonelantern-highlands.com

Page 39 Page 14 Page 8 Page 28 Page 42 Page 100

www.thedrysink.com www.summerhousehighlands.com www.zollerhardware.com

Page 9 Page 25 Page 35 Page 75 Page 73 Page 82

www. bumpkins-cashiers.com www.dutchmansdesigns.com

Page 75 Page 98 Pages 30, 33 Page 20 Page 44

Massage Therapy Tranquility Cove Massage www.tranquilitycovemassage.com Mattresses Blue Ridge Bedding blueridgebeddingandfurniture.com Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com Museums Museum of American Cut & Engraved Glass Nail Care Creative Concepts Nailz Hand & Foot Spa Needlework Supplies Needlepoint of Highlands Silver Threads & Golden Needles www.silverthreadsyarn.com Office Supplies Zoller Hardware www.zollerhardware.com Painters D.P. Painting Pet Supplies/Accessories Soph & Gab Woof Gang Bakery Zoller Hardware www.zollerhardware.com Pharmacies Cashiers Valley Pharmacy Highlands Pharmacy Photography Charles Johnson Fine Photography www.charlesjohnsonweb.com Valentine Photo Studfio www.valentinephotostudio.com Picture Framing Greenleaf Gallery www.greenleafgallerygifts.com

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96 | December 2011 | www.thelaurelmagazine.com

Plants/Nurseries Highlands Lawn & Garden Plastic Surgery Center for Plastic Surgery Robert T. Buchanan, M.D. Plumbing/Fixtures Zoller Hardware Porch and Patio The Summer House Pottery Around Back at Rocky’s Place Bird Barn and Gift Emporium Cashiers Hillside Artists Dutchman’s Designs Greenleaf Gallery The Hen House Mountain Mist Gallery Printing Services Cashiers Printing Pubs The Ugly Dog Radio Stations WHLC FM 104.5 Real Estate Sales Betsy Paul Blair Realty Carol Mathews Chambers Agency Chattooga Ridge Realty Country Club Properties Exurbia Sotheby’s Realty Green Mountain Realty Group Harry Norman, Realtors – Nadine Paradise Hattler Properties Highlands NC Realty Highlands Properties Jim Lewis Realty John Cleaveland Realty Landmark Realty Group Meadows Mountain Realty Mel’s Mountain Real Estate NC Mountain Life Nellis Realty Old Cashiers Realty, Inc. Silver Creek Real Estate Group White Oak Realty Group Restaurants Highlands-Cashiers Directory Café 107 Chris & Charlie’s Flip Side Fressers Eatery Highlands Smokehouse Jorge’s Place The Kitchen Carryaway & Catering Madison’s Nick’s Oak Street Café On the Verandah Pizza Place Ristorante Paoletti

Page 82 www.plasticsurgerytoday.com

Page 62

www.zollerhardware.com

Page 75

www.summerhousehighlands.com

Page 35

www.aroundbackatrockysplace.com www.dutchmansdesigns.com www.greenleafgallerygifts.com

Page 40 Page 9 Page 46 Pages 30, 33 Page 40 Pages 3, 18B Page 46 Page 9

www.theuglydogpub.com

Page 64

www.whlc.com

Page 23

www.betsypaulproperties.com www.blair-realty.com www.chambersagency.net www.ccrealty-nc.com www.ccphighlandsnc.com www.exurbiasothebysrealty.com www.greenmountainrealtygroup.com

Page 99 Page 11 Page 71 Page 11 Page 11 Page 2 Page 74 Page 11

www.nadineparadise.com www.hattlerproperties.com www.highlandsnc.info www.highlandsproperties.com www.jimlewisrealty.com www.jcrealty.com www.landmarkrg.com www.meadowsmtnrealty.com www.melsmountainrealestate.com www.ncmountainlife.com www.nellisrealtyandcommunities.com www.oldcashiersrealty.com www.ncliving.com www.whiteoakrg.com

Page 63 Page 11 Page 8 Page 85 Page 11 Page 69 Pages 60, 11 Page 57 Page 11 Page 11 Page 11 Page 11 Pages 11, 43 Pages 11, 24

www.cafe107south.com www.fresserseatery.com

www.thekitchenofhighlands.com www.oldedwardsinn.com www.nicksofhighlands.com www.oakstreetcafeinhighlands.com www.ontheverandah.com www.paolettis.com

Page 56 Page 79 Page 53 Page 55 Page 51 Page 55 Page 51 Page 52 Page 4 Page 55 Page 54 Page 55 Page 53 Page 52

Ruka’s Table Page 55 Southern Belle’s Page 50 Skyline Lodge presents Karlings Altitudes Restaurant www.skylinelodge.com Page 53 SweeTreats Page 54 The Ugly Dog www.theuglydogpub.com Page 64 Wild Thyme Gourmet www.wildthymegourmet.com Page 6 Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro www.wolfgangs.net Page 5 The Zookeeper Bistro www.zookeeperbistro.com Page 34A Rugs Bound’s Cave www.boundscave.com Page 17 Into the Woods Home Interiors Page 20 Peter J. Pioli Interiors www.macdonaldhomeconstruction.com/interior.html Page 6 Scudder’s Galleries www.scuddersgalleries.com Page 42 The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com Page 35 Zoller Hardware www.zollerhardware.com Page 75 Shipping Services Stork’s Wrap, Pack & Ship Page 9 Zoller Hardware www.zollerhardware.com Page 75 Shoes 4th Street Boutique Page 28 Annawear Page 59 Bear Mountain Outfitters Pages 18B, 23 Highlands Hiker www.highlandhiker.com Page 45 Spoiled Rotten www.spoiledrotten2.com Page 9 TJ Bailey for Men www.tjbmens.com Page 41 Shutters & Blinds Into the Woods Home Interiors Page 20 Spas Center for Plastic Surgery Robert T. Buchanan, M.D. www.plasticsurgerytoday.com Page 62 Old Edwards Inn www.oldedwardsinn.com Page 4 Tables Cashiers Customs Page 98 Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com Pages 30, 33 Into the Woods Home Interiors Page 20 Telephone Books Yellowbook www.yellowbook360.com Page 64 Toys The Corner Store Page 79 Transportation Highlands Transportation Company Page 59 Tree Services Travis Russell Page 73 Visual Tours Live Visual Tours www.livevisualtours.com Page 81 Web Design The Brothers Web www.thebrothersweb.com Page 73 Window Treatments Cashiers Customs Page 98 Into the Woods Home Interiors Page 20 Peter J. Pioli Interiors www.macdonaldhomeconstruction.com/interior.html Page 6 Reeves www.reeveshomefurnishings.com Page 76 Wine & Accessories Dusty’s Page 71 Zoller Hardware www.zollerhardware.com Page 75 Yarn Needlepoint of Highlands Page 86 Silver Threads Golden Needles www.silverthreadsyarn.com Page 92

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