December 2022: The Laurel Magazine

L aURe L

VOLUME TWENTY, ISSUE ELEVEN

Publisher’s Note

Welcome to the December 2022 issue of The Laurel.

Like Santa’s Big Sack of Goodies, we’ve stuffed it full of delights and surprises.

And unlike Jolly St. Nick, we haven’t been checking up on you – you’ve been good, right? We always assume that’s the case with our readers and advertisers.

Look for us at the various celebrations popping up across the Plateau. These events are invariably suffused with Good Cheer and we’re looking forward to sharing that spirit with you – whether you’ve been our neighbor your entire life or if you’re simply a 48-hour refugee from Elsewhere. Merry Christmas to You and Yours and join us for the Promise of 2023!

Thank You!

Janet and Marjorie

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

Contributing Writers:

Copyright © 2022 by The Mountain Laurel, LLC. All rights reserved. Laurel Magazine is published eleven times per year. Reproduction without the per mission of the publisher is prohibited. The publishers and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication subject to Laurel Magazine’s right to edit. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, photographs and drawings. Every effort has been made to assure that all information presented in this issue is accurate, and neither Laurel Magazine nor any of its staff is responsible for advertising errors, omissions, or information that has been misrepresented in or to the magazine. Any substantial errors that are the fault of the magazine will be subject to a reduction or reimbursement of the amounts paid by the advertiser, but in no case will any claim arising from such error exceed the amount paid for the advertisement by the advertiser.

WHAT TO DO

photo by Susan Renfro

A Canine Christmas Celebration

If our dogs could talk, they would say “Woof, woof, Merry Christmas.”

Dogs are spectacular. There is no gainsaying our love of them or their devotion to us. We are often pictured with our dogs on these pages.

Canis familiaris, descendants of wolves, have, according to the archeological record, kept company with human beings for at least 15,000 years. They were first attracted to our primordial cook fires where we threw them bones to chew on. They turned out to be both likeable and useful.

Being pack animals, dogs in the wild hunt in groups and communicate nonverbally with members of the pack. They survive through strength in numbers and coordinated action: many eyes and ears and noses searching for prey, signaling others, and coming together for the attack. They bark at danger

to alert the pack and make good guard dogs for us. They silently point at prey to alert the pack and there is statuesque beauty in an English Springer Spaniel--nose forward, body frozen, one foot cocked--pointing at game in the bush.

Feed them and they’ll stay with you; Be kind to them and they will abide as a forever friend. In the best of canine-human relationships, love is what transpires between us.

Feeding them is not enough. Dogs thrive when acknowledged. Talk to them, interact with them, learn to speak dog. Dogs like low register, singsong sounds like “pooch,” “smooch” and “What a purdy girl you are.” Sounds that would be soothing to you. We should speak dog to each other.

The Plott Hound, pictured above in a red Christmas collar, was

officially adopted as our NC State Dog in 1989. They are scent hounds bred for hunting bears by Johannes Plott who immigrated from Germany to Western North Carolina in the 18th century. Plott brought five German boarhounds with him which, with selective breeding, started this breed that has been recognized by the American Kennel Club and shown at the Westminster Dog Show.

by William McReynolds

Cashiers Annual Christmas Parade

The eagerly anticipated and always enjoyed Cashiers Christmas Parade is held this year on Saturday, December 3. The parade starts at 3:00 P.M. but you’ll want to arrive early to park and find the perfect viewing spot.

As in years past the parade marches up 107S from Cashiers School Road, turns left at the light down Highway 64, and ends by turning left on Frank Allen Road.

The theme this year is The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, and the Grand Marshall is the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary. The chamber has been hard at work ensuring that this parade is the best yet.

Thomas Taulbee of the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce says interest in the parade has reached an all-time high this

year and there are over 50 entries. Cashiers is a community rich with people who embrace every opportunity to share their community spirit and show their artistic flair. This annual parade is the perfect vehicle to show off their spirit, talent, and creativity as they bring the most wonderful time of the year to the crossroads.

Expect to see animals, vintage cars, colorful costumes, creative floats, and unexpected surprises. Again this year, the precision marching and festive sounds of the award-winning Rosman Tiger Band from Rosman High School will be a parade highlight. These exceptional young musicians bring the joyous sounds of the season to life. There’s nothing quite like a marching band bringing a parade to life.

The Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce is especially

Cashiers’ Christmas spirit finds its full flowering with the 2022 Christmas Parade, set for 3:00 P.M. Saturday, December 3.

grateful for the support and aid they receive from the local Sheriff’s office and the local fire and rescue departments, who donate their talents, time, and energy into ensuring everyone’s safety.

They would also like to thank this year’s sponsors: Buck’s Coffee Café, Harris Custom Builders, The Spinx Co., The Village Hound, and a generous anonymous supporter. It takes a village to pull together an event of this scope and this village does it in style.

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

Scan to learn more.

by Mary Jane McCall photos by Susan Renfro

Ring in The Season

Highlands’ Christmas Parade, set for 10:30 A.M. Saturday, December 3, is a sweet blend of tradition, merry music, and a jolly community spirit that will not be contained.

Hitch those reindeer to your sleigh – no, wait, Santa will do that – but you should gather family and friends into your chosen conveyance vehicle and head to the Highlands Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 3, at 10:30 A.M. Sponsored by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC, this parade embodies the Christmas spirit and is the perfect way to usher in the season.

Parking is at a premium so carpool (it’s more fun) and get there early to claim a prime viewing spot. You won’t want to miss a moment of this larger-than-life Christmas parade. Our town may be small but our parade rocks, rolls, and marches with the sights and sounds of the season.

Speaking of marching, this year’s parade will feature not one, not two, but three marching bands! Nothing sets the tone for a festive parade quite like a marching band and this year ours will feature the Franklin High School Band, the Rosman Tiger Band from Rosman High School, and the Western Carolina Pride of the Mountains Marching Band. The hills will be alive with the sound of music.

Arrive early – 10:00 A.M. – to catch the crowd-pleasing, wellrehearsed dancing darlings from the Mountain Garden Club. In addition, more than 50 entries will make their way down Main Street this year so you can expect to see a bit of everything- from homemade floats lovingly crafted with hours

of volunteer labor to animals of all kinds to vintage cars, motorcycles, and bagpipers. The Highlands High School Homecoming Court, cheerleaders, and athletic teams will be there, along with SmOkey the Bear, veteran’s groups, and and so much more. It will be a morning to remember. Of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus wouldn’t miss this event for all the candy canes at the North Pole, so they’ve marked their calendar to be on hand to the delight of young and old. Ring in the season and warm your hearts with all that is good about small-town America and join the fun – don’t forget your camera, you’ll want to capture these memories.

by Mary Jane McCall

Hubs for the Holidays

The Plateau’s twin libraries are primed for Christmas celebrations, from the silly to the sublime.

Cultural and recreational centers and town squares are not the only places where people can enjoy holiday performances and activities. Libraries, as centers for learning, have also become places to expect entertainment. According to Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library Branch Librarian Serenity Richards, a must-see December event is on Saturday December, 10th at 3:00 P.M. “We’ll be having our concert Christmas Around the World featuring the Cashiers Valley Community Chorus Children’s Chorale and our youth theater students.”

The adult Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, a 501(c)(3 organization, started the Cashiers Valley Children’s Choral for children in kindergarten and up and has about 25 children participating, with many of the children also participating in the local Boys and Girls Club. Christmas Around the World fea tures various holiday songs and expresses Christmas traditions around the world. Admission is free.

The week before the library event, the adult chorus will present a Christmas concert on Sunday, December 4, at 2:00 P.M. in Lewis Hall at the Village Green. Admission is also free to this event.

Richards explained that throughout the month of December, winter holiday themes will also be focused on during weekly children’s storytime, which takes place on Wednesdays at 10:00 A.M.

During December, Highlands’ Hudson Library Kids Zone will welcome Billy Love, with The Bascom, on December 1, and then a special Kids Zone Holiday Party, with games, crafts, and creative fun, occurs during the regular Kids Zone Thursday, December 8, at 3:30 P.M. Kids Zone is every Thursday at 3:30 P.M., and open to all ages, designed with children age 5 and up in mind. Younger children should be accompanied by an adult.

Storytimes are on Thursdays at 10:40 AM at Hudson Library and will also feature winter and holiday themes.

Carlyn Morenus, branch librarian, pointed out that other activi ties include the December 15 traditional third Thursday Lego Club and the December 22 craft projects, which she commented is “a chance to make a last-minute gift!”

Plus, there are plenty of holiday craft, decorating, cooking, and entertaining books available through the Fontana Regional Library System, in which the Cashiers and Highlands libraries are affiliated. A few include: Draw 50 Holiday Decorations; Homemade Holiday: Craft Your Way Through More Than 40 Festive Projects; Seriously Simple Holidays: Recipes And Ideas To Celebrate The Season; The No-Stress Holiday Organizer; and, The Twelve Topsy-Turvy, Very Messy Days Of Christmas.

by Deena Bouknight

An Evening at The Farm

Perennial Old Edwards Inn favorite Mike Kinnebrew brings his deep repertoire of holiday music to Fireside at the Farm –December 15.

MikeKinnebrew

On Thursday, December 15, singer/songwriter Mike Kinnebrew will, for the seventh time, ascend the stage at The Farm at Old Edwards. The date marks the return of Fireside at the Farm: A Holiday Evening with Mike Kinnebrew The journey to that platform began eight years ago on Kinnebrew’s family’s first trip to Highlands. It was Christmas, 2014, and breakfasting at Madison’s they discovered Old Edwards Inn and were dazzled. From then on, stays at Old Edwards Inn, along with trips for the kids to the Polar Express train were the family’s holiday tradition. In 2016, leaving the hotel for their planned excursion to the train, Kinnebrew discovered that he had locked the keys in the car. Panic ensued but when the team at Old Edwards were called in to assist, they were as Kinnebrew said, “all hands on deck.” When he returned home, Kinnebrew sent a note to the then-General Manager, Jack Austin, praising and thanking the Old Edwards team. As an aside, he mentioned that he was a musician, suggesting he was available.

In February 2017, Austin invited Kinnebrew to play in Hummingbird Lounge. He recalls performing that night for eight or ten people; exclusively playing other people’s songs, convinced the audience didn’t want to hear his original music. Nevertheless, Austin invited Kinnebrew back. He started singing the songs that he writes – songs that tell his truthful story, tales relatable and familiar and told from the heart. The

audience was smitten. By 2019 he was playing monthly in Hummingbird Lounge, and he and Austin had become buddies.

One day, Austin invited Kinnebrew to tour The Farm at Old Edwards, where he had a dream of hosting a concert series. In Austin’s utopian future, the setting of the apple orchard setting was evocative – he envisioned birdsong and clouds at twilight, spectators amidst the trees, and the mountains in the backdrop. The Orchard Sessions launched in November 2019 and though Kinnebrew couldn’t play the first gig as they had hoped, he is the artist most frequently seen on its stage.

Kinnebrew told me, “I try to maintain in Orchard Sessions the same warm feeling as the early days in Hummingbird Lounge.”

Included in December’s set is a new song entitled, I can’t let Christmas Go, which speaks to the sadness and letdown that follows when Christmas is over.

For Kinnebrew, “The Christmas performances are my favorite. It’s sort of like accidental church; it feels very sweet and intimate and there’s always a magic that’s undeniable.”

More originals and Christmas songs will be included, and the session will close out with carols because, as he says, “by the end everyone is ready to sing together.”

Book online at OldEdwardsHospitality.com/Fireside.

by Marlene Osteen

The Laying of the Wreaths

Local veterans will receive a measure of honor from a grateful community with the Highlands commemoration of Wreaths Across America, Saturday, December 17.

Mark your calendars now to attend the annual Wreaths Across America wreath-laying ceremony at noon Saturday, December 17, at Highlands Community Building, followed by the laying of the wreaths at Highlands Memorial Park. Shuttles from the Community Building will be available.

This local wreath-laying ceremony is part of a national network of volunteers who honor our veterans by laying wreaths all across America on the graves of veterans who served our country.

The mission of Wreaths Across America is to remember our fallen U. S. veterans, honor those who serve, and teach our children the value of freedom. Everyone is encouraged to participate to honor and remember our veterans.

Commander Ed McCloskey of American Legion Post 370 speaks of how impactful and meaningful this ceremony is, remembering that “about five years ago I saw a photo with snow and wreaths on all grave sites at Arlington. Centered was a Bald Eagle on a headstone. Today it’s my screen saver.”

He connected with Phil Potts, area coordinator of the Friends of Highlands Chapter of Wreaths Across America, and the Legion Post has been a sponsor since. Commander McCloskey says that “our members, along with family members of the fallen,

and some Scouts, go out every December and place those wreaths on the gravesites of our local fallen.

Walking those hills and placing those wreaths is a labor of love and respect. They locate each grave site and as their wreath is placed, they say their name and service, saying aloud “they are never forgotten.”

Coordinator Phil Potts says that, “We will be honoring veterans buried in Buck Creek, Clear Creek, Goldmine, Highlands, Horse Cove, Miller, and Scaly Mountain cemeteries.” Friends of Highlands would love to hear from friends and family members of veterans to make sure that their list is complete, and no one is missed.

Sponsoring a wreath costs $15, and organizers will need to know if you wish to lay the wreath yourself, or if you’d like to have them do it.

To sponsor wreaths, sign up to volunteer or get more information visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/WAA/ HighlandsNC, email Phil Potts at ppotts63@frontier.com, or call him at (828) 200-9753. Join Friends of Highlands to remember, honor and teach.

by Mary Jane McCall

Mystery DinnerSpecial Event

Local students are caught in the middle of murder most foul (with food) – it’s a January 27 Mystery Dinner Event for young people. Call (828) 743-0215

MeganPotts

The Western Carolina Mountains are an incubator for the Arts, particularly performing arts. Every year veteran theater professional, Megan Potts, shepherds a promis ing crop of school-age actors, actresses, and stage technicians through the basics of design, acting, voice, improv, costuming, lighting, management, and more. By the end of their practicum, students are immersed in the inner workings of theatre produc tion, while having a whole lot of fun. As Megan says, “Theater is play within a structure.”

One of Megan’s popular events is a Mystery Dinner Event. She pulls talent from the entire region: Macon, Jackson, and Transylvania Counties, North Georgia, and Northwest South Carolina. Students, consider this your casting call if you are a 5th-12th grader interested in an evening of fun, food, and improv. The next date is January 27, 2023 with sign ups open until Thursday, January 17.

Will you be the villain? Shhh. Don’t tell. Let the others guess as they dine on fine food brought from family’s homes, dare I say … a Megan Potts Luck! Each course has a special direction. Actors are not allowed to answer direct questions as to their guilt or innocence. Think of it as a soupçon of truth with a dollop of deception and a whole lot of fun. At the end of the dinner, ballots are cast and the villain is

revealed. Megan has done scores of these events and without exception, everyone walks away full of food, fun, and mysteries solved. Everything is free but space is limited. This is a chance for kids to hang with other kids and try out their improv/acting skills in a safe, welcoming, educational environment.

Many thanks to other community organizations that partner with Megan’s programs like Manna Food Bank, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau. In addition, the libraries in Highlands and Cashiers are all grand connections for MGP Productions.

Free classes and monthly special events will be ongoing during the school year in both Highlands and Cashiers.

For more information about getting your child (children) involved in the Mystery Dinner Event or any of the other MGP Youth Theatre Special Events, Workshops, Classes, or Productions contact Megan at: mpotts@fontanalib.org. Or call (828) 743-0215.

by Donna Rhodes

Snow Fest at 4118

Snow Fest at 4118 adds an element of fun and excitement to a blustery season. It’ll be staged Saturday and Sunday, January 28 and 29, at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park in Highlands.

Though the winter months have traditionally been a sleepy season on the Plateau, there’s no longer such a thing as a slumbery time.

For instance, just consider all the Wintery Activities we spotlight on page 44. That’s a full slate of fun to carry you all the way to Spring.

And putting an exclamation point on the entire season, look no further than to Snow Fest 4118 at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, and its promises of merriment, mingling, and perhaps a bit of magic.

Amidst the continued twinkling lights that were installed in the park for the holiday season, participants on January 28 and 29 can bundle up and brave inclement weather to check out a variety of festivities.

Snow Festers can expect two full days of a snowball target throw, ice slides for various ages, a snow tube merry-go-round,

smores, sno-ga (a fun bendy blending of snow and yoga), a DJ, and much more.

Plus, ice skating is a main attraction at Kelsey-Hutchinson Park, and with the whole town of Highlands under a wintry wonderland spell, activity seekers can enjoy walking to shops and restaurants before or after checking out Snow Fest, which runs from 11:00 A.M. until 5:00 P.M. on Saturday and Sunday. Whether the white, fluffy, icy stuff is dusting or blanketing the town for the first Snow Fest 4118 is provided by Mother Nature or the snow blowing machines you can be sure it will be fun for all.

by Luke Osteen

Scan to learn more.

Shop With a Cop

As Christmas approaches, it’s time for Shop With A Cop. This program, started by Sheriff Robbie Holland, provides Christmas for the children of Macon County who would have little or no Christmas.

The children are identified by teachers, police officers, churches, neighbors, family and friends. SWAC provides each child with a $100 gift card to Walmart and are taken there to Shop with a Cop. The children are told to buy something for themselves and something for someone else.

Highlands Police Chief Andrea Holland has participated in this program, starting while she was with the Macon County Sheriff’s Office in Franklin and now in Highlands.

Chief Andrea has shared some of her memories – “I am honored to have been affiliated with Shop with a Cop since 2004. Some kids have been in our presence during the worst times of their lives; therefore, I love having these one-on-one times to build positive relationships with the kids, their guard ians or parents.

“In one instance, a young boy bought everyone a gift, but none for himself. He said he did not need presents because he finally had a family that loved him.

“One year, I noticed a little girl was wearing shoes with holes. I asked her if she would like to buy a pair of shoes. Instead, she said that her little brother needed shoes worse than her. Of course, I took her to the Shoe Show and bought her and her brother a pair of shoes. She cried because she could buy her little brother another toy and her mom a new coat since she didn’t need to spend her gift card on shoes.

“One little boy bought only food. I know his mother well, and I know she feeds her children. However, this little boy said he wanted to do this so his mother could spend money on something else.

“I give you these memories not to demean any guardian or parent; please understand. I share these memories because I want to share the joy your donations bring.”

Please consider a donation to help these children who would have little or no Christmas. You may mail your check to me, Caroline Cook, at P. O. Box 2785, Highlands, NC 28741 or drop the check by the Highlands Police department. Make your check out to Shop With A Cop or SWAC. Your donation is tax deductible.

by Caroline Cook

Shop with a Cop brings the gift of Christmas Cheer to local children.

View the complete Highlands Cashiers Plateau Calendar

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM. Highlands Wine Shoppe wine series, 4:30 to 6:30 PM.

Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest.

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:45 PM, Lewis HallVillage Green Commons. Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 PM, The High Dive.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM.

Great Art on Screen, 5:30 PM, PAC.

Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest.

Cashiers Designer Showhouse, 10 AM-4 PM.

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus Christmas concert, 2 P.M., Lewis Hall, Village Green. Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest.

Erin Gray Trunk Show, Acorns. Sentimental Journey, 2 PM & 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse.

Highlands Food Pantry

10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest.

Highlands Food Pantry

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

Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest.

The Bookworm

11 AM - 3 PM.

Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest. Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry

10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM.

Highlands Wine Shoppe wine series, 4:30 to 6:30 PM.

Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest.

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:45 PM, Lewis HallVillage Green Commons. Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 PM, The High Dive.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM.

Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM.

Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest.

Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest.

Highlands Food Pantry

10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. The Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM. Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest.

Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM.

Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest. Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry

10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. The Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM. Highlands Wine Shoppe wine series, 4:30 to 6:30 PM.

Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:45 PM, Lewis Hall. Holiday Evening with Mike Kinnebrew, The Farm, 6:00 PM. Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 PM, The High Dive.

Mountain Findings

Open 10 AM - 1 PM. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM.

Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest.

Home for the Holidays, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company.

Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest.

Highlands Food Pantry

10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest.

Highlands Food Pantry

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

Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest.

The Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM.

Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest. Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub.

Home for the Holidays, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company.

Highlands Food Pantry

10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. The Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM.

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:45 PM, Lewis HallVillage Green Commons. Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest.

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

Home for the Holidays, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM.

The Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM.

Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest.

Home for the Holidays, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company.

Merry Christmas!

Highlands Food Pantry

10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church.

Highlands Food Pantry

10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church.

The Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM.

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

Village Nature Series, 5 PM, Village Green Commons.

Enchanted Forest 6-7:30 PM, Highlands Botanical Garden.

The Bookworm

11 AM - 3 PM.

The Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM.

Highlands Food Pantry

Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM.

Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church.

Wine Tasting, 5:30 - 7:30 PM, Buck’s in Cashiers.

Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Home for the Holidays, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company. Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub.

Locally Grown on The Green, 2 PM, Village Green Commons. Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub.

10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM.

The Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM.

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:45 PM, Lewis HallVillage Green Commons.

Home for the Holidays, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company.

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

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM.

The Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM.

Art Benefit, drawing 5 PM, Betsy Paul Real Estate.

Home for the Holidays, 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company.

Highlands Marketplace, 8 AM - 12:30 PM.

Cashiers Designer Showhouse, 10 AM-4 PM.

Mountain Findings 10 AM - 1 PM.

Kelsey-Hutchinson Park. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Food Drive, 10 AM-1 PM, Fishes and Loaves Food Pantry. Barnas Denim Trunk Show, TJ Bailey’s.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Highlands’ Christmas Parade, 10:30 AM, Main Street. Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM. Santa at the Park, after the Highlands Christmas Parade, 12:30 PM - 3 PM.

Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM.

Saturdays on Pine, 6 PM.

Cashiers’ Christmas Parade, 3:00 PM.

Brooklyn: The Musical, 2 PM and 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Highlands Marketplace, 8 AM Erin Gray Trunk Show, Acorns. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM. Sentimental Journey, 2:00 & 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse. Pop-Up Pipers, 4:30 - 5:00 PM Highlands Burritos side patio. Saturdays on Pine Concert, 6 PM. Concert, 6 PM, Town & Country. Bluegrass, Cashiers Smokehouse. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Highlands Marketplace, 8 AM - 12:30 PM.

Kelsey-Hutchinson Park. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Santa at the Park, 11 AM - 3 PM MET Opera, 12:55 PM, PAC.

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus Children’s Chorale, 3:00 PM, Albert CarltonCashiers Community Library. Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Highlands Marketplace, 8 AM - 12:30 PM.

Wreaths Across America, meet at Highlands Community Building.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM. Santa at the Park, 11 AM - 3 PM Home for the Holidays, 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company.

Trim Our Town, Highlands Storefront Decorating Contest. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM.

Live Music at Hummingbird Lounge, 6:00 to10:00 PM

Home for the Holidays, 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company.

Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM.

Home for the Holidays, 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM, Mountain Theatre Company.

Live Music at Hummingbird Lounge, 6:00 to after midnight. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

GRATITUDES

FROM THE SILVER CREEK TEAM

“I am grateful for the most passionate and amazing real estate team on the Plateau! Also, for a great year on the croquet lawn and most of all, for my family and friends.”

JOCHEN LUCKE

“Each new day is a gift, good or bad - I’m grateful for the daily opportunities I’m given to make a difference in the lives of others and the friendships forged as a result.”

DAN ALLEN

“I’m thankful for a year of travel and exploration post-COVID. In addition to an ice fishing trip, my wife and I traveled to Harbor Island, Bahamas, as well as back to our old stomping grounds in both New Orleans and New York. We are thankful for our healthy family, our growing son, and looking forward to what 2023 brings!”

PARKER ANDERSON

“This year, I am grateful for the quality time I have spent with my loved ones, and for the memories we made taking a “once-in-a-lifetime” family trip to Alaska.”

DELANEY ASBURY

“Since moving to The Plateau with my husband, Mac, I have been incredibly fortunate to make and strengthen friendships, in and out of work!”

JULIA TATUM BANNER

“Grateful to be able to spend time with family this past year.”

CHRIS DUFFY

“I am grateful for my friends and family.” CAITLIN

FRANK

“My family, my friends, and the four legged’s in my life bring me such joy. This beautiful Plateau and the energy it creates have given me a place to nest, to find renewal and happiness. I am blessed to have each and every one of them in my life!”

DEBBY HALL

"Of all the things I’m thankful for, this year has presented an abundance of growth opportunities for our family. From moving across the country, to joining the team here at Silver Creek, and everything that fills the space in between - this year as been nothing short of an adventure I’m blessed to be on.”

IZAAK HOLSAPPLE

“I am grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive as a member of the Silver Creek team!”

SAVANAH HOPPER

“I am grateful for my family, to live here where I have my two sons, two daughters-in-law, and my little granddaughter.”

LOTA HOWELL

“Grateful for having everything I need and a few things I want as well as the ability to provide a few needs for others.”

RICK JACKSON

“Grateful that my son, Dane, found love with his new wife, Pamela.”

BAMBI FAMOUS KAINE

“I’m grateful for the boundless “nature therapy” surrounding me, and for new adventures experienced and relationships formed since relocating to the Cashiers area.”

NORA KELLY

“I am thankful that Lindsey and I will be celebrating the birth of our first child in April.”

KEVIN KOACH

“I am thankful for my family and friends and for the opportunities I have been given. Also for the opportunity to be a better man and father tomorrow than I am today”

EDDY MCDONALD

“I am grateful for the blessings of health, happiness and clean mountain air.”

JODI MOORE

“This year has shown me the selflessness of friendship.”

ANNETTA MULL

“I am grateful for the opportunity to see the world through my

daughter’s eyes as she grows and experiences new things every day.”

CASSIE NEAL

“Grateful for my health and well being as well as those of my family friends and clients.”

KATIE NICHOLSON

“I am thankful for good health and so many wonderful friends!”

LINDA PRIDGEN

“I am grateful for my family and an amazing group of friends to celebrate life with.”

CHUCK SELF

“I’m grateful for recently reconnecting with a friend from college with whom I’d lost touch, meeting in person and reminiscing about those days. Old friends are, indeed, the best friends.”

RIVA SMITH

“I’m most Grateful for my 7 beautiful daughters and my 14 grandkids. But also, Grateful to have the mountain air to breathe and the mountain water to drink.”

RAY TRINE

"This year, I have found a company who inspires my creativity, peers who encourage my curiosity, friends who enrich my spirit, and a dog who greets me with a “high-five” when I get home.”

MARY WHITTEN WARNER

RECREATION & CREATION

photo by Susan Renfro

A Hop, Skip, and a Jump

No need to always travel a ways to a trailhead in order to enjoy pleasant days out of doors. Winters are especially popular times for long walks and hikes due to opportunities for extensive views, distinct ridges, and silhouetted trees. And, fortunately, Highlands supplies two trails that – for some Plateau residents and visitors – are literally within walking distance. At most, these two trails are just a hop, skip, and a jump’s drive from a mountaintop location.

One trail is accessible from behind Main Street, on Oak Street; there is a trailhead for the Highlands Greenway, established in 2009 and supported by The Highlands Plateau Greenway, The Mountain Garden Club, and the Town of Highlands. Access to the trail is also behind The Elizabeth Wright Prince House, which is worth seeing and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Depending on which routes a person takes, the Rec Park Loop, Oak Lane Trail, or Gazebo Sled Run Trail, at least a mile or so can be achieved on this trail.

While not necessarily too challenging, the Highlands Greenway does have some stairs and some elevation. And, for such a close-by trail, it offers plenty of nature-lover options: towering hardwoods, moss-covered logs and boulders, Mill Creek and a small waterfall, and a bridge. To extend this path, it links to the Bascom Trail, which sports a historic, preserved covered bridge, outdoor art sculptures, benches, and a sitting area near a trickling brook.

The Highlands Plateau Greenway is also an official North Carolina Birding Trail. A printable and downloadable map is available via highlandsgreenway.com/maps.

Secondly, a trailhead at the end of North 5th Street, a Highlands-Cashiers Conservation Property, owned and protected by Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, is called Kelsey Trail Preserve and is indicated by the standard hiking symbol and arrow on a trail marker pole as well as artistic signage.

Throughout the heavily wooded trail loop are stone steps, natural log benches, and silver-capped posts as markers. Not interested in a walk in the woods? Pick up a Highlands Heritage Trail brochure at the Historical Society at 524 N. 4th Street and take a walking tour throughout the town.

by Deena Bouknight

You can rekindle your relationship with Nature on easy hikes snaking through Highlands.

Open all Winter

There’s no business like Snow Business when it’s winter on the Plateau.

What’s 5,000 years old, made of bone, and was a Finnish-design energy-saver? Was your answer, “Ice skates?” Then you’re right! Fifty centuries ago, should you wear these “humerus” skates and fall (but broke no bones), would that be a marrow es-skate?

In Highlands this winter, visit Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, where they provide safe, modern skates, you can enjoy ice-skating until March 5 (as long as the ice holds). Times: Thursday, 3:30 to 8:00 P.M.; Friday, 3:30-10.00 P.M.; Saturday, 1:00-10:00; and Sunday, 1:00-5:00 P.M. On cold nights, warm yourself and socialize at the lower level fireplace.

Of course, for some people, ice skating isn’t the only cold weather activity that’ll get your blood pumping as the mercury plummets.

Cast your gaze toward Sapphire Valley Ski Resort in Sapphire. They’ll be opening December 17 (weather permitting) – a 1,600foot main run with a vertical drop of 200 feet, a learning center slope and the newly-expanded, multi-lane snow tubing run. It’s also the site of the regionally-famous Great Sapphire Outhouse Race, set for its 16th incarnation on February 11 of next year.

Crazy? Maybe. Dangerous? Perhaps. Fun? Without a doubt! For a good cause? Definitely! This unforgettable event raises

funds for local charities. If you’d like to race, build or sponsor an outhouse, please call (828) 743-2251.

And then there’s all the action at Highlands Outpost in Scaly Mountain.

Have you heard about the Outpost’s Mountain Coasting, a gravitational hybrid of an Alpine Slide and a Roller Coaster? It’s 3,800 feet of thrills through the magnificent Appalachian Mountains. You can zip, plunge, and glide through Mother Nature’s best. Guests, one or two to a cart, coast down a wind ing descent, using a set of handbrakes to regulate their own cart speed – up to 27 mph.

In addition to gravity-coasting, don’t miss snow-tubing at Highlands Outpost. They’ve added new tubing slopes to accommodate even more guests. And you can strap on your ice skates and have a go at the Outpost’s rink.

And new this year, the Outpost has opened a snow play area for littler kids, perfect for safely romping and enjoying every measure of delight to be found in a snowscape.

Take advantage of Outpost booking and confirmation of reservations/tickets. For more information, visit scalymountain. com or call (828) 526-3737.

by Donna Rhodes

Bird Listeningwith Merlin

There’s music in the meadows and forests all around us. A new app brings clarity and conviction to its identification.

Bird watching has just advanced like the USS Enterprise entering warp speed. The leap forward is the introduc tion of new technology and a free app that recognizes and identifies birds.

Merlin Bird ID comes to us from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and makes “bird listening” as well as “bird watching” easy and engaging.

Merlin Bird ID is a multi-function, smartphone app for the identification of birds. If you see a bird and answer just three questions about size, color and location, Merlin will consider all the birds in your area and identify your bird, complete with similar birds in your area. This function, let’s call it the Bird Sighting function, uses a huge amount of data from iBird, the predecessor app, and makes bird identification more certain. If you hear a bird singing, you can find the species via the Bird Listening function. In this mode, you open Merlin, choose the listening function, and hold your smart phone still to record the song. Merlin is fast and sure in telling you what bird you are hearing. It’s like magic but what’s behind song identification is sonographic data on all species of birds in North America and beyond. Summa Cum Laude for the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Mucho cudos! Bird Listening is a joy! Wherever you are — on a walk, at a park, on your screened porch — when you hear an

unknown bird, turn on your phone and let Merlin have a listen. You very quickly come to know each bird solely by song. You’ll astound yourself with how expert you quickly become. Knowing birds by song makes you want to consult the app’s readily available information on that species and go beyond hear-say to hear-see-know.

As if that were not enough, Merlin Bird ID has a third function, equally astounding: Photo Recognition. That’s right, if you have a good digital photo of a bird and want to identify the species of the pictured bird, you open the photo section of the app, download your photo and the identity of that bird appears on your screen. How cool is that?!

A warning might be in order here. The Merlin Bird ID app, free at the App Store, could cause you to form new habits. Once you see how easy and informative it is to use Merlin to listen to and watch birds, to get to know them, you might start listening and watching regularly. If so, welcome to the club!

Merry Christmas and happy bird watching-listening-knowing from the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society. Find us at highlandsaudubonsociety.org.

by

William McReynolds, Highlands Plateau Audubon Society

Male Northern Cardinal photo by Paul Hersey

A new map serves as a handy guide to the Wild Places hidden on the edge of downtown Highlands.

Have you ever experienced the long-reaching views from Sunrise or Sunset Rock of Ravenel Park in Highlands?

Since before the arrival of Winter, the HighlandsCashiers Land Trust has been working tirelessly with professional illustrator, cartographer, and certified Blue Ridge Naturalist Ken Czarnomski to introduce a new print and electronic trail guide. Within the brochure you can find detailed information on native flora and fauna, a curated map of Ravenel Park and even directions to the area if you have yet to explore it

yourself! Now more than ever, take the opportunity to explore one of Highlands’ most coveted hikes in detail. A printed version of the map is available at the HCLT offices in the Peggy Crosby Center, or you may download it online at hicashlt.org to use even when offline. Mere weeks ago, the red maples were contrasting the deep green hues of gnarled pine and hemlock, while the leaves of popular, birch, and hickory began to illuminate your vantage points with a stunning array of yellows and gold. As leaf season comes to an end, the com

manding views from the mountain’s cliffsides offer exuberant views that entice the artist in all of us.

For those new to the granite dome rock outcrop ecosystems at Sunset and Sunrise Rocks, the guide highlights mountain oak and hickory forests, rare plant species and some of the inhabit ants that abide within the ecosystem. While black bears forage though the park for wild edibles, both the National Audubon Society and Bird Life International have designated the area as one of the most important bird areas in the world, the guide notes. Unique species include Black-Throated Blue Warbler and Red-Breasted Nuthatch. Other species with conservation statuses can also be found nearby.

Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust wouldn’t exist without our incredible business partners, generous donors, and volunteer support who help us conserve and care for over 3,700 acres including our beloved Sunset and Sunrise Rock. As a fully accredited 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, we rely on the support of friends like you to help us preserve the quality of the air we breathe, the water we drink and healthy habitats for all who live here. Join us in protecting some of the oldest mountains in the world by visiting hicashlt.org and consider visiting one of our public access properties this season.

by Brendon Voelker, photo by Andrew Renfro

Leave No Trace

Leave No Trace is a marvelous practice for hikers and anyone with a passion for the region’s Wild Places.

It is a stunningly clear, crisp early winter day; vistas are endless, and the light dusting of snow conveys pristineness on the trail. Then, there it is: an empty drink bottle. With hundreds of miles of hiking opportunities in Macon County – be they on the Appalachian Trail, Bartram Trail, or Forest Service roads – traversing responsibly is key for not only everyone’s enjoyments, but importantly for the environment as well.

Recently, Sarah Adams, Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s regional manager for Georgia and the Nantahala National Forest, shared information at the Macon County Regional Library about the concept and practice of Leave No Trace. “LNT can apply to everywhere you walk, bike, hike, and travel,” said Adams. “For example, there are many day, section, and thru hikers year-round on the AT, and we want everyone, for a long time, to enjoy the recreation and challenge aspects of that trail … to preserve the trail for the future. So how do we reduce impact?”

Anyone can order an AT Conservancy LNT card to clip to a backpack. The small card reminds hikers of the “seven principles,” including: leaving the trail the way it was found, which means, for instance, not carving initials and messages into tree; minimizing campfire evidence by burning wood only in existing campfire rings; not feeding wildlife; abiding

by camping and trail posted regulations; staying on designated trail, instead of establishing new trails; carrying out all trash; burying bodily waste; and, more.

Plus, Adams instructed individuals present at her library lecture on smart safety preps.

“Anytime you go on a walk or a hike, let someone know where you’re going,” she said. “That’s so important. Anything can happen, even if you think it is just going to be for a short time.”

In addition, walkers/hikers should always bring at least a small backpack that includes water, a snack, a flashlight, clothing/ gear appropriate for the weather conditions, and a first aid kit. For longer hikes, and overnight stays on trails, more planning is necessary. One tip she shared is that some compactable gear, such as a rain jacket, can serve as a first aid wrap, if necessary. Weather conditions should always be checked before heading out, she noted. Finally, during hunting season, brightly colored clothing and/or a backpack is advisable.

More LNT tips, as well as information about the AT, can be found at appalachiantrail.org or at LNT.org.

by Deena Bouknight

Gillan Renfro

photo by Mary

Biological HotspotFor Bats

Dr. Rada Petric is unveiling the secrets of our winged night neighbors. You can help.

Did you know that North Carolina is home to 17 different bats making it the most bat species-rich state on the east coast?

Highlands and the surrounding mountain region of North Carolina is actually a biological hotspot for bats. While our region boasts significant bat populations, more than half of the bat species in the United States are in severe decline or listed as endangered.

But who cares, right?

Wrong!

These flying mammals play an important role in pest control, pollination, and seed dispersal, and researchers are working hard to expand our knowledge of their numbers, behavior, and ecological significance.

One such researcher is Dr. Rada Petric, Director of the Highlands Field Site program through UNC-Chapel Hill’s Institute for the Environment. This year, Dr. Petric teamed up with the Highlands Biological Foundation, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting, promoting, and funding biological research and education in the southern Appalachians, to pilot the “BatPak” project – a new citizen science project used to monitor bat populations along the Appalachian Trail.

The goal of the BatPak project is to enlist the help of hikers and lo cal outdoor outfitters to check bats along the southern Appalachian

Trail. Those traveling overnight are provided with a miniaturized bat recorder which allows scientists to listen to and record bats. Long-term research provides essential information about changes of biological communities. This information is crucial for provid ing recommendations for management strategies that lead to good environmental decisions.

As scientists who care about bats, a non-charismatic species that are most often associated with Halloween as spooky decora tions, the BatPak researchers recognize that in order to make a meaningful change in this group of animals they must educate the public and enlist their help. The BatPak project implements public participation and collaboration in order to increase scientific knowledge. By combining forces with community members, the BatPak researchers are able to collect data that will allow them to build a long-term bat monitoring project, make meaningful infer ences about the results, share a more complete story about bats in the southern Appalachians, and at the same time, raise awareness about bats and the dire need to conserve these animals.

To learn more about this and other research projects supported by HBF or how you can contribute to these research efforts, visit highlandsbiological.org or call (828) 526-2221.

by Winter Gary Highlands Biological Foundation

Walking Into TheofMiddle Wild

The Village Green’s Boardwalk will receive a much needed face lift, and you can help.

The Village Green is the crown jewel of the Cashiers area, a space enjoyed by hundreds of people a week, and one of its most cherished and utilized features is the raised boardwalk that winds its way through the wetlands at the center of the park.

This boardwalk joins the north and south sides of The Village Green and is enjoyed by walkers, young explorers, nature lov ers, wildlife observers, bird watchers, and those who are simply looking for a quiet respite from the daily grind. It is a peaceful oasis in an often-bustling world.

The boardwalk winds through wetlands and streams that flow into the headwaters of both the Chattooga and Horse Pasture Rivers and is home to a protected brook trout stream. These waters form a unique ecosystem that is soon to be designated as a mountain bog. These same waters whose levels rise and fall are also the reason that the boardwalk has fallen into a state of disrepair over the years necessitating needed repairs that are already underway.

The boardwalk is being entirely restored with a much-improved design that will make the area safe and accessible for all to enjoy. The new boardwalk decking will be raised above ground level to increase the longevity of the structure. Its width will be increased to 8 feet allowing for safer pedestrian passing

and allowing those who are mobility challenged or require a wheelchair to enjoy the wetlands. Additional safety features are a 42” high handrail that will be backed by mesh.

In addition to the safety features, there will be additional spaces to sit and relax. Educational kiosks will be featured throughout highlighting the diverse wildlife and native plants of the area, as well as other area nonprofits whose mission is to protect and preserve our natural areas.

Additionally, there will be an additional 800 linear feet of boardwalk in an area of the park near the playground where visitors have begun making their own trails and which currently has a section of makeshift decking, making this area much safer and more accessible.

The project will be completed by spring 2023 and ready for all to enjoy. Those wishing to donate to these improvements should contact Ashlie Mitchell, Executive Director of The Village Green at director@cashiersgreen.com.

by Mary Jane McCall

Scan to learn more.

photo by Susan Renfro

Cover Artist Ken Bowser

For cover artist Ken Bowser, watercolor is a medium that’s somehow both timeless and immediate.

Watercolor is known for its immediacy. Ken Bowser, who closes The Laurel’s 20th Anniversary Celebration with his holiday cover, explains its appeal.

“Watercolor is a direct medium. I load my brush with a propor tionate amount of pigment and water, then apply it to paper.

…it’s the initial splash of color that makes the statement. There’s no un-do.

(that spare hand which mothers, teachers, and artists seem to possess). Sometimes he surrenders and shoots photographs to paint in his home studio – even when his heart is out-of-doors. Ken says, “Subject matter often helps determine the medium used in a painting.”

My mark is made. The color is true, clear and bright. With oils and acrylics, you can scrape, paint over, layer atop layer, but with watercolor, it’s the initial splash of color that makes the statement. There’s no un-do. Some artists find that daunting. To me, it’s pure magic.”

Ken has painted 6-plus decades (largely in water-based mediums) and is still going strong. Over the years he’s enjoyed plein air (and still does on occasion), but he says you have to be multi-dexterous to manage it: juggling umbrellas with one hand, articulating a brush and managing water in another, and thwarting blasts of wind, showers, and sun with a third hand

He started painting in his mid-20s in a community art program. “Once a week a fella would lead an oil class. A couple of years thereafter a younger teacher took charge. In him I found a wonderful watercolor teacher whom I stuck with the rest of my life.”

Ken and his wife, Beth, a glass artist, traveled and studied Southwest Native American artwork in Denver, Santa Fe, and the mountains of Mexico.

He says, “It was a touring adventure as well as a painting education.”

For nearly four decades Ken served as a United Methodist

minister in Ohio. When asked if his artwork of Nature and landscapes related to his ministry, he thought a minute and said, “The creation factor is the connection. God’s gift of beauty is a sermon in itself.”

To me, it’s pure magic.

You can see Ken’s work in The Bascom, Tsartistry Gallery in Franklin, and Gallery One in Sylva. Inquire about a visit to his studio (bowser@dnet.net). He occasionally teaches; he’s an active member of the Highlands Cashiers Art League; and he participates in Studio Alive.

by Donna Rhodes

Finding the Art in Winter

Easy steps to accommodate Life and Art during these winter months.

Iwas talking to my artist pal Marianne Deaton last week and she lamented the fact that the grey days of winter and the long, long nights were going to be taking a toll on her spiritual health and her creative output.

Though it’s an annual problem, she said, somehow, it’s gotten worse with the arrival and slow dissipation of Covid. It was just so much easier to stay close to home and avoid interacting in all the wonderful ways that made life here on the Plateau so sweet and rich. And relying on the faux intimacy of Facebook or trying to maintain a worldview in a mediasphere that’s predicated upon outrage and anxiety certainly wasn’t conducive to good mental health.

I commiserated with my friend – trying to maintain a sense of equilibrium in this unsettled age requires a set of mental contortions that mimic the routines practiced by the athletes of the 1984 Romanian Olympic Gymnastics Team.

But I told Marianne that there were certain practices she could inculcate that would almost certainly improve her mental outlook and, by extension, her artistic output.

These are simple steps, culled from a lifetime of writing and decades of living here on the Plateau and they’re simple, won’t adversely affect your body or your mental health, and they won’t cost anything.

The first gentle step is to venture out into nature. It’s all around us and it’s bursting with undeniable energy, even in these fallow months. Our Deena Bouknight is good about outlining trails that’ll take you to the Wild Places, but whenever I need a quick getaway, I head over to the Highlands Botanical Garden. Like a centuries-smoothed Zen kōan, you have to lose yourself just a bit to find yourself. The subtle shades of grey and the vivid emerald of Galax always inspire me during the long winter slumber. Plus, otters!

The next step heads in the opposite direction and is simply heaps of fun – lose yourself in the lives around you. Go out for a meal with your friends or make it as simple as a chat over a cup of coffee and a cupcake.

Plunge into a conversation with someone at Bryson’s or the Cashiers Post Office – even if you don’t know them. It’s a sure tonic for melancholy and a balm for psychic distress, and it’s offered free and without hesitation. If you’re like my friend Marianne and you’re feeling a bit hesitant about life, try these easy solutions. And then track me down (I’m the skinny guy with flappy ears) and tell me how your life is going.

Savor the Season!

by Luke Osteen

photo by Susan Renfro

December at Highlands PAC

December at the Highlands Performing Arts Center brings a pair of presentations sure to cement its position as a Plateau cultural touchstone. Tickets are available online. Highlands PAC is located at 507 Chestnut Street.

Highlands Performing Arts Center is unveiled its December playbill – replete with a presentation that’ll enrich your understanding of history and a perfor mance that will stir your soul.

At 5:30 P.M. Friday, December 2, Great Art on Screen will present a tour of the magical city, Venice: Infinitely Avant Garde It will showcase masterpieces by Tiepolo, Canaletto, Rosalba Carriera, and the intellectuals who fell in love with Venice – from Canova to Goethe, Lord Byron to Walter Scott, down to the great Hollywood stars drawn to its yearly Film Festival. Even now,1,600 years after its legendary foundation, Venice remains unique for its urban landscape and for its rich history, but above all, the city is unique for its identity, which combines the charm of decadence with the excitement of being on the cutting edge.

…Renée Fleming making her highly anticipated return to the Met in the world-premiere production of Pulitzer Prize–winning composer Kevin Puts’ The Hours…

from Michael Cunningham’s acclaimed novel. Inspired by Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway and made a household name by the Oscar-winning 2002 film version starring Meryl Streep, Julianne Moore, and Nicole Kidman, the powerful story follows three women from different eras who each grapple with their inner demons and their roles in society. The exciting premiere radiates with star power, with soprano Kelli O’Hara and mezzosoprano Joyce DiDonato joining Fleming as the opera’s trio of heroines. Phelim McDermott directs this compelling drama, with Met Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin on the podium to conduct Puts’ poignant and powerful score.

by Mary Adair Trumbly, Highlands Performing Arts Center

At 12:55 P.M. Saturday, December 10, the MET Opera will present soprano Renée Fleming making her highly anticipated return to the Met in the world-premiere production of Pulitzer Prize–winning composer Kevin Puts’ The Hours, adapted

Scan to learn more.

Mountain Theatre Company

Home for the Holidays serves as an exclamation point for Mountain Theatre Company’s exuberant 2022 season.

As 2022 comes to a close, Mountain Theatre Company is celebrating the end of a remarkable season at The Highlands Playhouse. With record breaking ticket sales, off-the-charts talent, a new Theatre for Young Audiences initiative, and a full season of live theatre from JulyDecember, MTC has much to toast this New Year’s Eve.

MTC’s 2022 Mainstage Season opened in July with its produc tion of the Broadway smash, Jersey Boys. Word spread quickly and attendance boomed. The production enjoyed a sold out run of all 22 performances, with nearly 3,800 tickets sold. By the end of the run, people who hadn’t been able to secure tickets started showing up and waiting outside the theatre, hoping to score a ticket from cancellations or no-shows.

Jersey Boys was followed by Sentimental Journey in August, a beautiful and sentimental musical revue which celebrated the music of the Word War II era. Audiences left dazzled by glamorous costumes, incredible music, and impressive choreog raphy performed by a first class troupe of professional dancers. Fall brought an inspiring, uplifting, modern day fairy tale to the Playhouse stage with BKLYN: The Musical. An amazing powerhouse of five voices blew the audience away with tight harmonies and heartwarming messages of family, faith, hope,

and forgiveness. It was a 2022 highlight that left an indelible memory on theatre-lovers near and far.

In November, MTC launched its first Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA) show with A Wrinkle in Time. Approximately 800 local students in Macon, Jackson, Transylvania, and Rabun Counties attended school field trips to see this professional production of the classic children’s novel performed at The Highlands Playhouse completely free of charge. Public perfor mances were offered with a “Pay What You Can” ticket rate for adults and free tickets for all children.

MTC’s final show of the 2022 season is on stage now. Its production of Home for the Holiday s features a cast of favorite performers from the season as they return to Highlands to celebrate the holidays with good cheer, a lot of fun, songs, glitz, and glamor for the whole family.

Get tickets before this one sells out. With the 2022 season coming to a wrap, we can’t wait to see what MTC has in store for next year!

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

Has Much to Celebrate in 2022!

Revisiting After 20 Years

As we come to the close of the Laurel’s 20th anniversary year, we’re excited to revisit the 2002 cover of interna tionally-renowned photographer Gil Stose. This cover image is a classic example of the beauty, style, and essence of regional mountain living. It’s his delight and his job to capture the soul of architecture and design.

Gil is one of those artists who has a sense of the aesthetic fused to his DNA. While he prefers to be called a craftsperson, his eye for art/design is undeniable. He simply knows when bal ance, texture, line, form, shape, and spatial congruity coalesce in divine harmony.

So it is with this roomful of light and shadow. He, in teamwork with the room’s interior designers, chose the ultimate viewpoint

for his shot. A textural variety of wood, glass, stone, textiles, and elk antlers complements the monochromatic reddish brown color scheme with a tinge of neutralized green and soft pale pat terns. Gil says the designer’s choice was, “To soften the overall look with a specialized lens filter. It gave the room a relaxed, mountain feel.”

The POV invites us, the viewers, to follow the abundance of architectural lines from almost any starting point. Let your eye track the rug lines. They move us to the back of the space, then up the vertical lines of the French doors. They sweep us left to right, then up to the ceiling beams and back down to the fireplace stonework lines and antlers, which invite a gaze toward the chandelier, then drop us back down into the room to

There’s a reason we celebrated the vision and artistry of cover photographer Gil Stose 20 years ago. We’re still enraptured by his talents.

our starting place.

One of the factors that separates winning photographs from ordinary snapshots is capturing the contrast of deep darks with stunning light. Add to that a wide variety of gradients inbetween. In this photo, the dark fireplace interior and shadowy nooks balance the lit chandelier and pale-colored pastel fabrics. The combination shows off Gil’s skill at presenting a story, a feel, an essence. It’s one thing to come prepared with all the usual tools and talent to make a good photo. But when you have the heart and eye of an artist, good becomes great. This is why a commercial photographer like Gil is in constant demand. His artistic abilities move him to an exceptional level.

This photo was shot with a 4x5 camera before digitals were in everybody’s hip pockets. For Gil, and many photographers, the 4x5 was/is the pro’s choice. Prior to the final snap, he shot Polaroid tests for set-up, light, etc.

Gil says, “I have done this for 30+ years. It’s second nature. I’ve always treated the small job as seriously as the big one.” Locally he’s filled Laurel Magazine with hundreds of com mercial shots for On the Verandah, Wolfgang’s, Old Edwards Inn, Blackrock, and more. He’s sold scores of architectural, real estate, commercial, and editorial photos near and far. And, while he nails every shoot for his clients, he always makes time for that one soul-satisfying shot… just for him.

Not bad for a guy who got his start in England (BBC) in movies and television, working in 60+ countries. He brought his international background and phenomenal skills to the states, settling in Highlands.

For more information, visit Gil’s website, gilstose.com or call him at (828) 506-9376.

by Donna Rhodes

Bascom on Bartram

The Bascom showcases the beauty and the magic embedded in this corner of the Southern Appalachians with its new photographic exhibit.

Acommunity-wide photography project brings attention to the 18th-century explorer/horticulturist William Bartram, who traversed through the Western North Carolina mountains and for whom a well-traveled trail is named. Bianca Mitchell, marketing manager for The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts, announced that a nine-month photography project, Listening to the Land, will be launched on December 15th with an exhibition in the Bunzl Gallery, which will feature works by Kinship Photography Collective members. Influenced by the legacy of William Bartram, Kinship photographers will be showing images that communicate the flora, fauna, views, and landscape that the naturalist experienced. Bartram traveled through the Southeast between 1773 and 1777, writing exact and vivid descriptions of the plants and animals he saw and the native tribes he encountered.

Over the last three months, Kinship photographers Beate Sass, Brent Martin, Eric William Carroll, Erik Mace, Frances Bukovsky, Kaye Savage, Mike Belleme, Raymond Thompson Jr., Susan Alta Martin, Susan Patrice, and Yvonne Dalschen have been thoughtfully exploring the Bartram Trail near Highlands. Kinship is a non-profit collaborative environmental-photography project “exploring the intimate connections between nature, culture, and belonging,” according to Susan Patrice, co-founder of Kinship. She credits Martin, also director of the Blue Ridge Bartram Trail

Conservancy, with providing photographers with writings and reflections by and about William Bartram as sources of inspira tion. “Each photographer was invited to create work that captured their unique relationship to place. Bartram was a great listener to the land.”

The Conservancy shares, “In the spirit of the joy of noticing and noting the wonders and intricacies of the natural world, [Bartram’s] intimate drawings and writings remind us of how precious yet precarious our natural resources are and the importance of their stewardship for future generations.”

Over the next nine months, the Kinship will offer online and in-person artist talks, workshops, and photography-inspired nature walks to photographers of all levels. Participants will be invited to use photography to listen to the land and develop their unique visual relationship to the Bartram Trail. Participating photogra phers will be offered the opportunity to have their photographs juried into a community exhibition that will open at The Bascom in September 2023.

For more information about the photography exhibit, call The Bascom at (828) 526-4949, or visit www.thebascom.org. More about William Bartram and the Bartram Trail can be found at www.blueridgebartram.org. Finally, visit Kinship Photography Collective’s site at kinship.photography for more information about this ongoing project and upcoming opportunities.

photo by Susan Renfro

Authentic Taqueria Fare

It turns out, South of the Border is a lot closer than you imagine –Las Margaritas, 127 64E in Cashiers.

We made a point to invite our friend Jessica to our Saturday night meal at Las Margaritas.

It’s not simply because Jessica is charming company (which she is, of course) but because of her experiences of life in San Diego.

You see, when Jessica lived her life in that filled-to-bursting metropolis, she had discovered a little taqueria that served, in her words, “the best Mexican food on the planet.”

It was a tiny place – no tables, just a single drive-through window – and it would force her to drive 20 miles to get her fix.

Think of that – are there any dishes that could prompt your taste

buds to highjack your sensibilities and drive across 20 miles of asphalt-girded San Diego traffic to achieve satisfaction?

So, there we were, ready to put Las Margaritas to the test with a friend who could sniff out a peacock from a field of puffins. Maybe it wasn’t fair to the kitchen and the staff, but that’s why I’m paid the Big Bucks, plus I’m pretty ruthless when I’m hungry.

We were promptly seated in the expansive dining room and quickly ordered a round of margaritas and cervezas. Of course, it’s important to stay properly lubricated when sampling a Mexican menu.

The margaritas were delicious and, let me pull out my Spanish

Phrase Book, grande. Even the medium-sized ones were only slightly smaller than the hot tub at my old apartment complex in Asheville. Were I daring enough to order a large, I’m pretty sure I’d have ended up doing the backstroke in the pond behind the restaurant. Happy, but supremely stupid.

But the proof in the pudding – or let me again pull out my Phrase Book, the verdict in the flan – would of course be the products of the kitchen.

Our table groaned under the bounty.

First up, Pollo Loco, a sublime blending of grilled chicken breast topped with onions, rice, beans, and melted cheese; followed by Molcajete, a spectacular pile-up of ribeye steak, chicken, shrimp chorizo, melted cheese, cactus, onions, and jalapeños; and the endlessly surprising Pollo Dolce – grilled chicken, zucchini, onions, bell peppers and mushrooms, all

served with rice, pico de gallo, cream, and mango sauce – if someone at your table orders this, see if they’ll share with you!

And of course, Jessica’s Tacos – a trio of corn tortillas loaded with pastor (marinated pork) laced with cilantro, onions, rad ishes and cucumbers. Her verdict – this is as close to authentic taqueria fare as we’re ever going to get in this corner of Western North Carolina. Plus, you don’t have to drive through 20 miles of So-Cal traffic to enjoy them!

Las Margaritas is located at 127 64 East in Cashiers (the same location as the late, lamented Randevu). You can also order takeout at (828) 743-6900.

by Luke Osteen

Pumpkin Cranberry Bread

This holiday recipe for pumpkin cranberry bread comes from Elevated Properties broker Clif Gottwals. A tasty slice of his family’s tradition it’s a delightful twist on a classic Christmas quick bread.

Gottwals recalls his mother and grandmother baking the holiday bread, “for our family to enjoy and to share with friends. It was a perennial favorite and a holiday staple – the loaves were always wrapped in foil and finished with a red and green bow, ready for gifting.”

Though he enjoyed the treat often growing up, it wasn’t until he was in his teens that Gottwals learned how to make the recipe. “Much to my parents’ dismay, I returned from college for the holidays with an 8-month-old Labrador named Charlie. All was going well until my grandmother and I discovered that Charlie had mounted the dining room table and destroyed 14 loaves of bread that my mother had left to cool while she went shopping. Realizing that Christmas and the safety of me and my dog were in peril, my grandmother and I joined forces to make and replace 14 loaves of pumpkin-cranberry bread before my mother returned.”

The combination of pumpkin and warm spices with a tart bite

of fresh cranberries is really something special. Delicious at any time, it would be equally welcome as a Christmas side as it would be at breakfast, as a snack or even a light dessert.

Gottwals Family Holiday Pumpkin Cranberry Bread Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted

1 ½ teaspoons salt

2 teaspoons baking soda

5 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

1 (15oz.) can of pure pumpkin puree

1 cup vegetable oil

3 cups granulated sugar

5 eggs

½ cup orange or apple juice

1 cup fresh cranberries

1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees with a rack in the middle.

Clif Gottwals’ jolly good bread is a holiday favorite (and Labrador-approved).

Clif Gottwals

2. Grease and flour two 9x5 loaf pans

3. In a large bowl whisk together salt, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spices.

4. In a large bowl whisk together pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and orange or apple juice.

5. Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until fully combined.

6. Fold in cranberries and nuts

7. Transfer the batter to the prepared pans and smooth into an even layer

8. Bake until the loaf is puffed and set, and a skewer inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached, 60 to 65 minute

9. Transfer the bread, in the pan, to a rack to cool for 15 minutes. Invert onto rack and let cool completely before wrapping in foil

Foil wrapped loaves can be placed in freezer bags and frozen for later use.

by Marlene Osteen

Choosing the Wine Divine

Highlands Wine Shoppe’s wine tastings mark a unique opportunity to kindle a hearty Holiday Spirit.

StephanieMiskewandAnnelizeGiliomee

It’s December – tis the season to party, to keep the spirits high and flowing, feed the jolly and gleefully give gifts. And if you have decided, as have I, that the way to satisfy all is with one or many bottles of wine, then here’s a guide to how to decide.

Head straight to one of the weekly wine tastings at The Highlands Wine Shoppe.

Owner Stephanie Miskew, Certified Sommelier, author of The Glamorous Gourmet and the proprietor of The Wine Atelier; and Annelize Giliomee, her managing partner and longtime Highlands wine guru, spend a crazy amount of time planning the tastings, and it shows.

Whether you’re looking to get out of your own wine rut, in need of an exuberant gift, seeking advice on wine pairings for an intimate dinner or affordable wines for a group of 100, Stephanie and Annelize are there to help. Don’t miss these holiday lifesavers:

Thursday, December 1: Holiday Sparklers

Tour the luminaries in the world of bubbles from its epicenter in Champagne to Prosecco in Italy, and Cava in Spain.

Bubbles go with end-of-year celebrations as predictably as chocolates at Valentines and raising a glass of something bubbly is a timeless way to celebrate. The act is innately celebratory, even a

bit whimsical. But the bubbles themselves can take many forms.

Thursday, December 8: Everyday Bordeaux

Much attention is paid to the grand chateaux, classified growths, seductive Merlots and powerful, Cabernet blends that abound in the rock-star world of Bordeaux. And, yes, there’s a stereotype about the wines of Bordeaux and their exorbitant expense, but as the tasting will demonstrate everyday wines exist, and there are joys to be discovered.

Thursday, December 15: Sommelier Side Hustle, Wines made by the World’s Best Somms

Sommeliers are no longer merely recommending bottles; some are choosing to get their hands dirty by making wine as well. Among those who have launched their own successful labels are two Master Sommeliers whose wines will be tasted – Rajat Parr of Sandhi and Eric Railsback of Roman Ceremony.

The Wine series is held from 4:30 to 6:30 P.M. and costs $25 per person. Accompanying the wines are a selection of charcuterie. Special surprise guests are likely to appear during any of the tastings. The series is informal, and reservations are not required.

For more information, visit 269 Oak Street, or call (828) 526-4080.

by Marlene Osteen

Holidays at Old Edwards

Old Edwards Inn and its properties have a clear mission to deliver Christmas Cheer.

Old Edwards might just be one of the most holiday-smitten places I know. For it seems to take only the approach of Christmas for the hotel to take on a special magical aura. Come December, the dining rooms, bars and public spaces will fill with the aromas and lights and sounds of the season.

In the intimate surroundings of Hummingbird Lounge music by talented artists pours forth from the stage, light bites are served, and a roaring wood fire is center stage. A meal in the quiet opulence of Madison’s Restaurant with its refined, elevated cuisine is cause for celebration alone, and the upbeat surround ings and pizzas that are simply too easy to love at Four65 Bistro are a joyful indulgence. In fact, the last week of 2022 might be the very best of times at Old Edwards.

Christmas Eve, Saturday, December 24:

Live Music at Hummingbird Lounge: Tyler Kittle, 6:00 to 8:00 P.M.; Z. Alexander, 8:00 to 10:00 P.M.

Madison’s Restaurant: Regular Dinner Menu, 6:00 to 9:00 P.M. Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar: 11:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M.

Christmas Day, Sunday, December 25:

Live Music at Hummingbird Lounge: Paul Jones, 12:00 to 4:00 P.M.; Zorki, 6:00 to 8:00 P.M.; Cy Timmons, 8:00 to 10:00 P.M. Madison’s Restaurant: 12:00 to 6:00 P.M., Call (828) 787-2525 to book. Reservations required.

Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar: 4:00 P.M. until close

New Year’s Eve, Saturday, December 31

Live Music at Hummingbird Lounge: Tyler Kittle, 6:00 to 9:30 P.M.; Z. Alexander, 9:30 P.M. to a bit past midnight

Madison’s Restaurant: Dinner Menu, 6:00 to 9:00 P.M., reserva tions required

Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar: Regular Menu until 10:00 P.M. for food and midnight for drinks

Champagne Toast at midnight in Hummingbird Lounge and Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar

New Year’s Day, Sunday, January 1

Live Music at Hummingbird Lounge: Paul Jones, 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.; Z. Alexander, 6:00 to 8:00 P.M.; Cy Timmons, 8:00 to 10:00 P.M.

Hummingbird Lounge open all day – Watch the college football playoffs.

Madison’s Restaurant: Brunch 9:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.; Dinner menu 6:00 to 9:00 P.M., reservations required

Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar: 11:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M.

by Marlene Osteen

The Season of Giving

Local Food Banks are open for business and looking for volunteers during this hectic, desperate season.

You can expect to see a float operated by the International Friendship Center at the Highlands Christmas Parade, set for December 3.

Among the features highlighted by the display is the Highlands Food Pantry, reminding Highlanders about the struggles of their neighbors.

“We’re now serving about 380 families every month or about 1,400 individuals,” says Pantry Director Bonnie Dayton. “With the advent of the slow season and the laying off of seasonal workers, we’re seeing about 25 new clients every month.”

Asheville and incipient supply chain issues.

“If anyone would like to volunteer their time or make dona tions of food or money, we could certainly use their generos ity,” Dayton says. “We’re open to serve our clients Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. Volunteers can help out during those hours, or we can certainly use them at other times during the week.”

If anyone would like to volunteer their time or make donations of food or money, we could certainly use their generosity…

Under the auspices of the International Friendship Center and with the support of numerous local organizations and individu als, the pantry operates out of the lower level of Highlands United Methodist Church.

“Our mission is to make sure no one in the community goes hungry or suffers food insecurity,” says Dayton. “We rely on a small army of volunteers and a generous community.”

That urgent calling has increased this year with inflation taking its toll on the resources available from MANNA Food Bank in

If you’d like to help or if you’d like to be a client of the Food Pantry, you can call the International Friendship Center at (828) 526-0890 or email Dayton at bonnie@international friendshipcenter.org.

If you’re living in Cashiers or its surrounding communities, you can qualify for food assistance through Fishes & Loaves Food Bank – 549 Frank Allen Road. They’re open Mondays and Thursdays, from 4:30 to 6:30 P.M. Of course, they’re always welcoming new volunteers – visit fishesandloavescashiers.org.

by Luke Osteen

Christmas Dinner on the Plateau

There are plenty of options for hungry revelers as the Plateau settles in for holiday celebrations.

Restaurants on the Plateau are almost as busy as Santa and his elves this Christmas season trying to accom modate all their cherished guests.

If your holiday plans include dining out, check out a few of your options below and keep in mind that most require reservations. As in years past many will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day and may have limited hours on Christmas Eve.

Take Out Highlands

Dusty Rhodes Superette: Sides and desserts will be available in their pre-prepared cases. (828) 526-2762

Fressers Courtyard Café: Call ahead to reserve your main dishes, sides and desserts. (828) 526-8847

Highlands Smokehouse: Call ahead to reserve your mains as well as the traditional sides. (828) 526-3554

Mountain Fresh Grocery: Call ahead to reserve. (828) 526-2400

Rosewood Market: Call ahead to reserve your main dishes, sides and desserts. (828) 526-0383

The Kitchen Carryaway: Call ahead to reserve your sides and desserts. (828) 536-2110

Take Out Cashiers

Cashiers Valley Smokehouse: Call ahead to reserve. (828) 743-2096 Dining on the Plateau

4118 Kitchen & Bar: Highlands (828) 526-5002 will be open

Christmas Eve

Bridge at Mill Creek: Highlands (828) 526-5500

Four65 Woodfire Bistro and Bar: Highlands (828) 787-2990

Fire+Water at Fire Mountain Inn: Scaly Mountain (800) 775-4446

Grand Olde Station: Lake Toxaway (828) 966-4242

Greystone Inn: Lake Toxaway (828) 966-4700

Highlander Mountain House: Highlands (828) 526-2590

Lakeside Restaurant: Highlands (828) 526-9419

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

Midpoint: Highlands (828) 526-2277

Madison’s Restaurant: Highlands (828) 787-2525

Oak Steakhouse: Highlands (828) 526-4008 will be open on December 24 and 25

On The Verandah: Highlands (828) 526-2338

Ristorante Paoletti: Highlands (828) 526-4906

The Orchard Restaurant: Cashiers (828) 743-7614

Ugly Dog Public House: Highlands (828) 526-8364

Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bar Bistro: Highlands (828) 526-3807 will reopen on December 26

Wine is the Answer

A few simple rules take the guesswork and anxieties out of Wine Gifting.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. The countdown is on. Hordes are out shopping. The stores are jammed, the clock is ticking. You’ve a dozen gifts to buy, and no ideas. Tis the season to be jolly, so fear not. Wine is the answer. No, not to drink – at least not until later.

Wine can make a brilliant gift for the right people during the holidays, and the picking is easier than you might think. But which ones? How do you know what they like? And what would make it a personal gift?

Whether the bottle is for a friend or a host, some hints on how to choose so you can get on with your life

Gifting a bottle of wine to a friend? Start by thinking what you’ve they order when you’re dining out, or perhaps where in the world that person has enjoyed traveling to or living—a region they admire for its art, cuisine or films. For instance, a bottle of Rioja would be a fantastic gift for a friend who loves Spain, a super Tuscan for a devotee of Italian red-sauce dishes, or an Oregon Pinot Noir for an outdoor enthusiast.

Gifting a bottle to a host? There are two things to keep in mind. The gift is for the host to enjoy at their choosing, not for the guests to drink. I like to resolve the dilemma by attaching a simple note that says, “I hope you’ll enjoy this later,” or simply “For your cellar.”

The second rule is that the gift should be something the host will value. Even better if you value it as well. And, if you arrive bearing a magnum of wine), you’ll most assuredly get invited back. Equal to two bottles of wine, a magnum simply exudes magnanimousness and plentitude. The wine inside is almost irrelevant because bigger bottles are more festive, more fun, and simply more impressive. Note that the one exception to this rule is a magnum purchased at the supermarket.

And some general rules of which to be mindful: If you don’t know your recipient’s preference, choose red. Though I don’t believe that reds are inherently superior, most people believe they are the more sophisticated of the two.

Secondly, avoid the obscure. Anything too odd will just confuse and not be considered a present.

My third tidbit: the all-purpose, can’t-go-wrong gift is a bottle of Champagne. Champagne is always welcome, especially if it’s an uncommonly good bottle.

Finally, how much to spend? The easy answer – the same as you would on a gift in any other category. And should that seems like a lavish amount for a bottle of wine, well, so much the better!

by Marlene Osteen

Plateau Dining Guide

The Restaurants of the Highlands Cashiers Plateau HIGHLANDS

AREA RESTAURANTS

The 4118 Kitchen + Bar 64 Highlands Plaza (828) 526-5002 L, D n

The Bistro at Wolfgang’s 460 Main Street (828) 526-3807 D n n

Calder’s Cafe 384 Main Street (828) 200-9308 B, L n C n n 83

The Dancing Bear at The High Dive 476 Carolina Way L, D n n n n C n n 85

Fire + Water Restaurant Reservations Required (828) 526-4446 B, L n n C n 15

Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar 465 Main Street (828) 787-2990 L, D n n n C n n 88

Fressers Courtyard Cafe Village Square, 470 Oak Street (828) 526-4188 L, D n n n C n n 91

Highlands Smokehouse 595 Franklin Road (828) 526-3554 L, D n n n C n n 89

Hummingbird Lounge 455 Main Street Highlands, NC (828) 787-2525 L n n n NC n 35

*The Kitchen CarryAway & Catering 350 S. Fifth Street (828) 526-2110 L, D n n 90

Lakeside Restaurant Smallwood Avenue (828) 526-9419 D n n n n n NC n n n 92 Oak Steakhouse at Skyline Lodge 470 Skyline Lodge Rd (828) 482 4720 D, SB n n n n NC n n n 78

On the Verandah Highway 64 (Franklin Road) (828) 526-2338 D, SB n n n n C n n 86

Paoletti’s 440 Main Street (828) 526-4906 D n n n n NC n 83

The Ugly Dog Pub 298 South 4th Street (828) 526-8364 L, D, SB n n n n C n n n 84

Wolfgang’s Restaurant 460 Main Street (828) 526-3807 D n n n n NC n n 5

CASHIERS AREA RESTAURANTS

Cashiers Valley Smokehouse

US 64 West (828) 547-2096 L, D C n n n 87

Las Margaritas 127 US 64 (828) 745 6900 L, D n n n n C n n 93

Slab Town Pizza 45 Slab Town Road (828) 743-0020 L, D n n C n n 87

Zookeeper 45 Slabtown Road (828) 743-7711

SAPPHIRE/TOXAWAY AREA RESTAURANTS

Grand Olde Station

HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS

4th Street Market - (828) 526-4191

Asia House - (828) 787-1680

Bella’s Junction Cafe - (828) 526-0803

Black Bear Restaurant - (828) 482-7020

The Blue Bike Cafe - (828) 526-9922

Bridge at Mill Creek (828) 526-5500

Bryson’s Deli - (828) 526-3775

The Cake Bar - (828) 421-2042

Dusty’s - (828) 526-2762

El Azteca - (828) 526-2244

Highlander Mountain House - (828) 526-2590

Highlands Burritos - (828) 526-9313

Highlands Deli SweeTreats - (828) 526-9632

Los Vaqueros Mexican Restaurant - (828) 482-7040

Madison’s Restaurant - (828) 787-2525

Midpoint (828) 526-2277

Mountain Fresh - (828) 526-2400

Rosewood Market (828) 526-0383

Ruffed Grouse (828) 526-2590

Subway - (828) 526-1706

Primary Restaurant & Bar - (828) 526-3555

Wild Thyme Gourmet - (828) 526-4035

CASHIERS AREA RESTAURANTS

Buck’s Coffee Cafe - (828) 743-9997

Canyon Kitchen - (828) 743-7967

Cashiers Valley Smokehouse (828) 547-2096

Chile Loco - (828) 743-1160

Cornucopia Restaurant - (828) 743-3750

El Manzanillo - (828) 743-5522

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

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

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

Mica’s Restaurant - (828) 743-5740

Mountain Cafe - (828) 577-0469

The Orchard - (828) 743-7614

Panthertown Cafe - (828) 862-3663

Sapphire Mountain Brewing Company - (828) 743-0220

Slab Town Pizza -(828) 743-0020

Slopeside Tavern - (828) 743-8655

Subway - (828) 743-1300

Town and Country General Store (828) 547-1300

Villa Amato (828) 885-7700

Wendy’s - (828) 743-7777

Whiteside Brewing Company - (828) 743-6000

Winslow’s Hideaway - (828) 743-2226

Plateau Lodging

HOTELS / MOTELS / BED & BREAKFASTS

Fire Mountain 700 Happy Hill Rd | Scaly Mountain firemt.com | (800) 775-4446 n n n n n n 15

Greystone Inn 220 Greystone Ln | Lake Toxaway thegreystoneinn.com | (828) 966-4700 n n n n n n 4

Old Edwards Inn and Spa 445 Main St | Highlands oldedwardsinn.com | (866) 526-8008 n n n n n n n n n 35

Skyline Lodge 470 Skyline Lodge Rd | Highlands skyline-lodge.com | (828) 526-4008 n n n n n n 78

VACATION RENTAL AGENCIES

Berkshire Realty Vacation Rentals 488 Main Street | Highlands meadowsmountainrealty.com | (828) 526-1717 136

Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals 401 N 5th St | Highlands highlandsiscalling.com | (828) 526-3717 148

Landmark Vacation Rentals 17 US Hwy 64 E | Cashiers landmarkvacations.com | (877) 926-1780 143

Rent in Highlands - CCP 507 Main Street | Highlands rentinhighlands.com | (800) 684-2171 x 302 146

Silver Creek Vacation Rentals 341 Hwy 64 W, Ste 102 | Cashiers ncliving.com | (828) 743-1999 36

CASHIERS, NC:

High Hampton Resort - (800) 648-4252

Hotel Cashiers - (828) 743-7706

The Lakehouse - (904) 753-0247

Landmark Vacation Rentals- (877) 926-1780

Mountain Vacation Rentals - (828) 743-0258

The Orchard Guest Cottage - (828) 743-7614

Pebble Creek Village - (828) 743-0623

Silver Creek Vacation Rentals - (828) 743-1999

The Wells HotelA Cashiers Experience - (828) 761-6289

GLENVILLE, NC:

Innisfree Bed & Breakfast - (828) 743-2946

Mountain Lake Rentals - (828) 743-6875

Prime Property Rentals - (828) 743-3482

HIGHLANDS, NC

200 Main - (855) 271-2809

Berkshire Realty Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-1717

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

The Chateau - (561) 613-1496

Fairview House - (866) 526-8008

Half Mile Farm - (855) 271-7246

Highlander Mountain House - (828) 526-2590

Highlands House Bed and Breakfast - (828) 787-1186

Highlands Inn - (828) 526-9380

Highlands Inn Lodge - (828) 526-5899

Highlands Resort Rentals - (828) 526-5839

The Inn at Mill Creek - 828-526-9999

The Lodge at Old Edwards - (828) 787-2560

Lullwater House - (423) 488-2799

Old Edwards Inn and Spa - (866) 526-8008

Park on Main - (800) 221-5078

Ray’s Roost - (678) 534-6870

Rent in Highlands - CCP - (800) 684-2171 x 302

Rockwood Lodge - (828) 526-8919

Silver Creek

Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-2999

The Wells Hotel - (828) 482-7736

Whiteside Cove Cottages - (828) 526-2222

SAPPHIRE, NC

Club Wyndham Resort at Fairfield Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-3441 Foxhunt at Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-7667

Hampton Inn & SuitesCashiers-Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-4545

Mt Toxaway Lodge & Motel - (828) 966-4582

Sapphire Run at Whisper Lake - (863) 412-5734

Whispering Falls - (352) 470-4085

Woods at Buc - (770) 714-9211

SCALY MOUNTAIN, NC:

Fire Mountain - (800) 775-4446

The Vineyard at 37 High Holly - (828) 505-6190

LAKE TOXAWAY, NC

Cabins at Seven Foxes - (828) 877-6333

Earthshine Lodge - (828) 862-4207

Greystone Inn - (828) 966-4700

Lake Toxaway Realty Company - (828) 508-9141

photo by Susan Renfro

A BEAUTIFUL ADVENTURE

Abel’s Artist/Signature Series of fly reels features original artwork, making every fishing trip an adventure in beauty and skill.

Abel Fly Reel | $1595 Brookings Anglers | Cashiers & Highlands

A BIT OF WHIMSEY

Hand crafted by local artist Kimberly Waltzer, these light hearted gourds will bring a bit of whimsy to your holidays.

Turkey Gourd $ 55 | Reindeer Gourd $ 65 Scaly Mountain Crafters | Scaly Mountain

Plateau

a few of our favorite finds

THE WARMTH OF HIGHLANDS

Warm up Highlands style by sipping your favorite hot beverage in a handcrafted mug commissioned by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC and created by pottery artist Frank Vickery with The Bascom.

Highlands Mug | $ 34 .95

Visit Highlands, NC | Highlands

FOXY AND FABULOUS

This stunning one size jacket with fox fur is a must have for the colder seasons. Thanks to the over-sized style, you will never meet an uncomfortable day in this piece. This jacket will surely attract endless appreciation and praises.

Fox Fur Jacket McCulley’s | Highlands

TIMELESS SPARKLE

A bold, center blue sapphire lends rich color to this timeless design, framed by diamonds offering optimum sparkle. This 14k yellow gold ring is hand crafted by jeweler Laurel.

Sapphire and Diamond Ring | $ 3,800 Bijou ‘Little Jewel’ | Highlands

ORIGINAL SONG

Stirring and beautiful, this original abstract painting by local artist Laura Moser will make an inspiring addition to any art collector’s home.

‘Birdsong’ 36”x36” original acrylic | $ 2000 Laura Moser Art | Cashiers

CHRISTMAS AND COCOA

These holiday mugs are ideal for enjoying cocoa in front of the fireplace during chilly nights.

Holiday Mugs $15 .99 | Cocoa $12 .99

Zoller Hardware | Cashiers

The Southern Way

The verities of Southern Life are celebrated at The Southern Way, 338 Main Street in Highlands.

“We’re a lifestyle boutique for men and women and over the years we’ve evolved, but we’ve never taken for granted the words, ‘The Southern Way’,” says owner Harry Bears. “In our vision, The Southern Way is, ‘yes sir,’ ‘no ma’am.’ It’s a comfortable shopping experience with great customer service. We put an emphasis on quality but remain committed to the entire shopping experience. You’ll be greeted on the way in and thanked on the way out. Over the years many of our customers have become just like family. We focus on lifestyle clothing. We carry lines that are not only comfortable but can be worn for work and play. Most of our clothing lines are performance wear, which makes laundry a breeze. Of course, we’ll give you washing and drying instructions at the checkout. We want your

purchases to be your go-to choices.

“We’re also excited to soon add our new CEO, the lovely and talented Michelle Bears. Some of you know her as my wife, but a lot of you know her as the former owner of the TOY Store. Those of you who enjoyed the TOY store for 30 years will be as excited as we are to have her on board. She’ll bring an added level of energy for all of us to feed off of.

“We carry Mizzen and Main, Johnnie O, Onward Reserve, Rhone, Kerisma, Foil, Habitat, and many more. If you can’t find it somewhere else, we probably carry it. We’re open seven days a week all year long. Come on in and say “hello” and, yes, we ship.

Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming

Furry friends and the people who love them will find the perfect emporium at Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming, 11 Pillar Drive in Cashiers.

Pampered pets and proud pet parents owe it to themselves to shop at Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming in the heart of Cashiers. It’s a pet lover’s paradise offering a delightful selection of whatever you need for your furry best friend.

This boutique pet store welcomes you and your dogs into their wonderful shop with a table loaded with gourmet treats for dogs of all sizes, illuminated by a sparkling chandelier overhead. Many of these treats are ornately decorated for special occasions such as your dog’s birthday or Christmas.

They carry premium pet foods and treats and are quite knowledgeable and helpful in helping you choose the right products. They also have spa products, leashes, beds, collars, apparel, harnesses, personalized I.D. tags, and a great

selection of items you’ll need if you’re planning on hiking or traveling with your dog such as portable water bottles and bowls.

And just in time for cooler temperatures, Woof Gang has a large collection of winter apparel for doggies 3 to 60 pounds.

Let’s not forget the rows and rows of toys that will keep you and your pooch entertained for hours. The selection seems endless and includes numerous Chuckit items, stuffed toys, and more to keep your dog happy and engaged.

During the holidays, owner Janet Martin wished to provide a gift for every shelter pet, hence a “wish list” was provided by the Cashiers

Highlands Humane Society, a tradition now entering its 12th year. Please stop by or call 828-743-WOOF. Happy Tails!

Harry Bears

Pet Groomer HailyStephenson

Nearly New

A visit to Nearly New, 60 Village Walk Way in Cashiers, can breathe new life into a room or rejuvenate your entire home.

‘

Tis the season to refurbish and rethink your home décor as we ease into the cold winter months when we need our homes to be at their coziest and most inviting.

There’s no need to spend a bundle when sprucing up your space, just stop into Nearly New at 60 Village Walk Way in Cashiers. This upscale consignment shop welcomes you with an ever-changing inventory of quality, gently used items for your home, and they are happy to help you find just what you’re looking for.

Imagine walking into an elegant, designer home, and being able to purchase those furnishings on the spot for your own home and you have an idea of what a visit to Nearly New is like. Their

carefully curated displays invite you to imagine how each piece could fit into your own space, and their eye for design is sure to inspire you to breathe new life into your own home.

From large statement pieces of fine furniture to the smallest, just right accessory, delights abound in Nearly New. They feature artwork for every taste, lighting, desks, pillows, pottery, florals, recliners, chairs, sofas, chests, tables, rugs, and accessories for every room in the house.

Stop by Nearly New today and see what treasures await.

Jenna Connor and Mary McGrath Connor

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

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

MAIN STREET 100. Main Street Nursery 103. Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center 124. Landmark Realty 134. The Southern Way 136. Dutchmans 142. Main Street Gifts 146. Wit’s End Shoppe 147. Calders Coffee Cafe 148. Highlands Fine Art & Estate Jewelry + Wine Shop 152. Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty 153. Allison Diane Clothing 158. C. Orrico 160. TJ Bailey for Men 163. Spoiled Rotten 166. Annawear 167. The Christmas Tree 169. Country Club Properties 174. Elena’s Women’s Golf and Activewear 178. McCulley’s II 185. Ristorante Paoletti 187. The Dry Sink 189B. Smitten 190. Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro 191. Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Meadows Mountain Realty 194. Old Edwards Inn 195. Madison’s Restaurant 196. The Wine Garden 197. Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar 202. Country Club Properties 205. Silver Creek Real Estate Group 207. Creative Concepts Salon 208. Highland Hiker Shoes 210. Highland Hiker

WRIGHT SQUARE on MAIN (Factoid: Named after Whiteside hero) 115. Preferred Properties of Highlands 116. Bijou 117. Country Club Properties, Wright Square Office 119. Highlands Pharmacy

ON THE HILL 303. Mirror Lake Antiques 305. Jeanie Edwards Fine Art 306. Acorn’s 310. McCulley’s 311. Martha Anne’s on the Hill 312. The Ugly Dog Public House 313. Old Edwards Inn 318. Peggy Crosby Center: - The Kitchen Carry Away & Catering 319. Lakeside Restaurant

OAK STREET

601. Highlands Playhouse

VILLAGE PARK

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

CAROLINA VILLAGE

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

NORTH END 801. Green Mountain Builders 814. Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center

OUT NC 106

Aery Chiropractic

Peak Experience

High Camp

Highlands Outpost

Highlands Aerial Park

Fire + Water

OUT 64 EAST

Black Rock Design Build

Berkshire Hathaway Homes Services Meadows Mountain Realty

WHLC

Highlands Lawn & Garden

Skyline Lodge/ Oak Steakhouse

Highlands Rock Yard

Center for Plastic Surgery

Allen Tate/ Pat Allen Realty Group

Highlands Dermatology

For a complete listing please visit our website, thelaurelmagazine.com.

Being added to our listing is easy! Simply advertise with The Laurel.

THE VILLAGE GREEN

Cashiers, NorthCarolina

For a complete listing please visit our website, thelaurelmagazine.com.

Being added to our listing is easy! Simply advertise with The Laurel.

by Susan Renfro

photo

An Appalachian Celebration

The local Christmas traditions draw upon ancient customs.

Annual celebrations have been an important feature of rural Blue Ridge, especially in the areas around Surry County North Carolina, original home of Col. John Zachary and family and Grayson and Carroll counties in Virginia.

There are a variety of celebrations whose origins are credited to the Appalachian region such as Decoration Day and numerous harvest festivals. The area also celebrates the national holidays such as the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving and international holidays Easter and Christmas. These celebra tions in the Blue Ridge most often reflect many regional characteristics. This is especially true concerning the region’s most popular holiday, Christmas.

Historically, Christmas in the Blue Ridge followed the ancient tradition brought from the old country, known as “Old Christmas.” The Christmas season was celebrated for days on end from Christmas Day to Epiphany or Old Christmas on January 6, the day when Jesus’ birth was celebrated before 1582 when Pope Gregory XIII changed or adjusted the calendar. Many disagreed with the date change and continued to celebrate Old Christmas even though the colonies adopted the Gregorian calendar in 1752. The communities continued to celebrate Old Christmas as well as new Christmas, resulting in

a 12-day celebration.

The spirit of the celebration led up to Epiphany or Old Christmas and filled homes all across the area with gatherings of family and friends, lots of music, dancing, and good food. The celebration would have a dance at one home and then move to another the next night until January 6. Party hosts moved their furniture out of the house to make room to dance, with one dance resembling the Virginia Reel and a minuet. It is said that the young people enjoyed such activities as setting bonfires, serenading, shooting guns and firecrackers as well as singing. This tradition known as Breakin’ Up Christmas dates back at least to 1864 according to William Norman in his memoir, A Portion of My Life

The celebration continues in Surry County and the counties in Virginia and even though the tradition of the celebration has changed over the years, most agree that as a celebration Breakin’ Up Christmas is a way to bridge the time between Christmas and the new year, and a way to continue a tradition dating back hundreds of years or more.

by Sandi Rogers, Cashiers Historical Society

Isabel’s Doll House

house is restored to

Today’s doll houses evolved from 16th-century “baby houses,” wooden cabinets in which wealthy European women displayed their collections of hand-crafted min iatures fashioned of the finest wood, fabric, and metals. Baby houses were a chic fascination for grown-ups, not children.

Over the centuries doll houses shifted into a teaching tool. They helped girls (and occasionally their brothers), as they grew up, learn how to care for a home. Arranging furnishings, moving family members here and there, making conversation as they went, was not only fun, but intrinsic to social interaction/training. It was Christmas, 1935 when four-year-old Isabel Chambers received her first doll house: a Southern, two-story, six-room

mansion. Her younger brother got a train that same Christmas. He circled his train track around the dollhouse. The train would take guests to-and-from the Hall House, named after their grandparent’s inn.

“In my continuing design of the interior of my dollhouse, there are several miniatures I treasure above others: a Duncan Phyfe sofa from FAO Schwarz gotten on my way to Dartmouth’s Winter Carnival, when (husband) Tony proposed; a kitchen table for pastries bought on a Danube cruise; and a stove I made myself. Spools painted black were stovepipes, and nickels served as burners,” says Isabel.

Decorating her mini-domicile for Christmas was a favorite annual

Long a cherished childhood memory, Isabel Chambers’ doll

event. She festooned bottle-brush trees with sparkles and snow. A feather tree was adorned with teeny-tiny candy canes made from red-and-white radio wire. Ornaments were beads. Lights went around the sides and wreaths adorned every window.

There were three fireplaces, double chimneys, and columns across the front. Fireplaces and some furniture were original, some Isabel made, and some she bought through the years. She built a greenhouse out of a glass letter box and filled it with colorful flowers year-round. Its floor was covered in poppy seed, imitating soil.

At Christmas, on the rooftop, reindeer posed. Santa observed from his sleigh. Isabel says, “It was really fun. When kids came to see it, they could look, but noooo touching.”

When Isabel received her doll house, the future Queen Elizabeth was a Princess. Isabel says, “My son, Tom, gave me

a Queen Elizabeth doll, and with her solar-powered purse, she sets her royal hand in motion.

After Isabel was grown and married, the dollhouse took up residence in the office attic. She had three boys, and they showed no interest in a dollhouse.

Ten years ago, she reawakened her childhood joy. With the help of her youngest son, Tim, they did some updating: a new roof, fireplace repair, landscape re-do, and more.

“The doll house has been a wonderful thing to help me stop thinking about problems and put my mind to something else,” says Isabel. “And for kids everywhere, and of all ages, a doll house helps them make sense of the world. We could all use some of that these days.”

by Donna Rhodes

A Very Special Christmas Greeting

Asleigh rockets above a 19th-century version of a Highlands that-could-have-been; an intricate snow flake on closer inspection is comprised of angels and Christmas trees and happy families; Santa is in his workshop, and a young boy atop a hill dreams of Christmas.

There are just some of the charming scenes Duncan Greenlee used as posters for his dad’s industrial-design business starting in the 1980s. Santa’s workshop is modeled after Duncan and his wife Ann’s home, and the Jolly Man himself is the late Randy Sackman, original owner of the Highlands Smokehouse.

Duncan’s whimsical “Common Tater” cartoons have enlivened

The Highlander Newspaper’s opinion pages since 1985. I’m a particular fan of his anthropomorphic trees, which offer their sage advice on Plateau doings. He has also contributed art to The Laurel

Duncan, his sister Megan, and their parents Hugh and Beth first came here from Gates Mills, Ohio (a Cleveland suburb) to visit friends John and Val Teyral in Whiteside Cove in 1968. They fell in love with the area and bought land in Whiteside Cove for their summers. Hugh was co-founder of the innovative industrial-design firm Greenlee-Hess, as well as a professor at the Cleveland Institute of Art and later became chairman of the

Duncan Greenlee’s densely detailed art is a compelling blend of whimsy and wisdom.

Industrial Design Department there. Growing up, Duncan had a summer job at High Hampton as so many other kids here have, and got a degree from the CIA, as well as another in English from Cornell. Today he owns Yardmonger’s Yardservice, which he started in 1979. He is a charter member and former president of the Rotary Club of Highlands-Mountaintop. He told me he hopes to retire soon and return to his art full time. We need a Duncan Greenlee retrospective!

One of his inspirations is the artist M.C. Escher. I would throw in Rube Goldberg and Rockwell Kent. Perhaps my favorite of the posters is the scroll-like one he did in 1992 showing the Christmas parade on Main Street. A float with The Holy Family in the manger is followed by the Three Magi riding

their camels; next is a globe proclaiming “Peace on Earth” carried by a VW bus. Here’s Jolly Old St Nicholas pulled by reindeer, as he also maneuvers a hot-air balloon in his own image that floats above. Further back in the parade is a pickup that’s been transformed into a Champagne bottle marked “1993.” In the background is Bill’s Soda Shop.

Two of these floats, built by Duncan, actually appeared in later manifestations of the parade, courtesy of the First Presbyterian Church.

by Stuart Ferguson, Local Historian, Co-Owner Shakespeare & Company

LIFESTYLES & WELLNESS

photo by Susan Renfro

Such a Good Life

For Trisha and Bob Kieltyka, a relationship built upon mutual respect was a solid insurance policy. (There was also a Datsun and a mustache involved.)

Trisha Singleton had worked as Bob Kieltyka’s admin istrative assistant for more than a year before they had their first date. They met in the summer of 1976 on his initial arrival at the Atlanta office of the insurance company, where she worked.

“We were all checking him out,” Trisha said. “I thought he was very nice and polite.” “They were curious about me because I had a mustache,” said Bob who had just completed a tour of duty with the Army and transferred from the home office in Providence, Rhode Island. (The company had a strict policy forbidding facial hair).

“My first impression of Trisha was very casual. I was happy to know that she was going to work with me and thought we would make a good team, but Trisha was married at the time, so I only thought of her as a co-worker.”

Then, In the spring of 1977, Trisha’s husband of five years died suddenly. For Trisha the loss was devastating, and on hearing the news, Bob and her co-workers were quick to offer consola

tion and support.

“I felt so much sympathy for her losing her husband so unexpectedly,” said Bob. “We were a very close office, and we understood the depth of her trauma.”

In the ensuing months, “Bob took me under his wing. He felt sorry for me.” Trisha said.

For a while, respectful of the company non-fraternization policy, they only saw each other at company social functions or hanging out with co-workers at local clubs and pizza joints. On August 18, 1977, they went on their first solo date to a Chinese restaurant. When Bob showed up at Trisha’s door with flowers and a bottle of wine, she felt that, “we were off to a great start, “I knew then I couldn’t go wrong.”

For his part, Bob was thrilled when Trisha let him drive her brand-new Datsun 280Z.

“She’s someone quite special,” Bob said. “There were so many things I liked about her, she’s very intelligent.” Trisha was similarly impressed; “Bob was very quiet, very much the

BobandTrishaKieltyka

gentleman, and he had really nice eyes – it was the first thing I noticed,” she told me.

By the end of the date their collegial relationship had taken a romantic turn.

“We realized that our feelings for each other were strong enough that we couldn’t just stay friends,” Bob said. They told management of their romance and agreed to remain discreet. More dates followed. They started seeing so much of each other that travel between their two homes became cumbersome and in 1978 – a year after they started dating – Bob moved in with Trisha. As Bob said, “Through it all, we continued to be best friends, and that made the transition much easier.”

Over the next year, their connection deepened. Though Trisha was the first to express an interest in marriage, Bob had suspected for some time that they would wed. On May 5, 1979, they were married at a gala celebration in Stone Mountain, GA before a crowd of 200 friends and family members.

Trisha left her job at the insurance company before their wedding and Bob remained with the company until 1996 when the couple both went to work for CVS. In 2003 they agreed it was time to leave Atlanta. What once had been a rather small Southern town, had simply become too populated. Seeking

something quieter, they decided on Highlands – moving here in January and buying the Christmas Tree shop soon after. Starting in 2007, and for 13 years Bob was Director of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce.

As Bob coyly sums up their liaison, “I met Trisha in Atlanta where she was my administrative assistant, and we now run the Christmas Tree where she is president, and she’s nice enough to let me think I am a partner.”

They have never stopped being best friends. The two share an enthusiasm for travel and a profound love for the many cats and dogs they have rescued over the years. They continue to find reasons to fall further in love.

She speaks her mind and lets me know what she thinks. She really is a rock I can lean on – always there for me as friend and counsellor.” said Bob earnestly. “We’re true soulmates,” Trisha explained, “It been such a good life, we hope to keep it going forever.”

They still drive the Datsun 280Z.

by Marlene Osteen

TrishaandBobKieltyka,1977

The Gift of Massage

Give yourself the gift of massage this holiday season.

Kristine Brand is a long-time massage therapist that prides herself in providing a high standard of service and is devoted to her profession. She spent much of her career at The Breakers in Palm Beach, Florida, before her five years working at Blackberry Farm in Walland, Tennessee.

KristineBrand

As the daylight hours get shorter and the holidays ap proach, we can get a bit overwhelmed and stressed so why not give yourself the gift of a therapeutic massage?

As a licensed massage therapist of 25 years, I have noticed that people often struggle with putting themselves first and one thing that seems to be universal is that most people have a hard time giving themselves permission to take care of themselves and/or do something special that is just for them.

This can be especially true during the holiday season when the longstanding theme is that it’s better to give than to receive. Ironically, getting a massage is a little bit of both giving and receiving. By giving yourself the gift of massage, you allow yourself to receive the many benefits for mind, body, and spirit. Massage helps to relieve, relax, and release the tension in your body and can help over worked, tired muscles as well as providing a wonderful respite on your overall outlook at life. Physically, there is a process of detoxification through increased circulation and the potential to reduce pain.

It can also calm the mind from the constant chatter and mode of always being “on.” There’s a sense of peacefulness that is both invigorating and rejuvenating.

Like most modalities, there are many different massage styles and techniques available, just as there are many different people

in the world with different ailments and situations. These differences allow me to offer uniquely customized appoint ments for everyone I work with. A session could include light to medium pressure on your neck and shoulders or deeper pressure along your low back and hamstrings. I can even add hot stones, aromatherapy, foot reflexology or scalp massage to enhance your experience.

As the newest co-op member at Cashiers Valley Fusion Yoga and Wellness, I’m excited to offer my clients access to additional wellness services that are complimentary to my therapeutic massage. Some clients may choose to treat them selves to a double dose of goodness with a Yoga or Pilates class followed by a massage. Others may opt for a session in the full-spectrum infrared sauna or halo/salt therapy room before or after a massage. Another popular combination is adding a facial with the studio’s co-op skin care specialist before or after their appointment.

Ultimately, giving yourself the gift of a massage this holiday season and even beyond, is just that, a gift. A gift that gives back. A gift that is bound by well-being and time dedicated to self. With that, I look forward to taking care of you as part of your gift to yourself.

by Kristine Brand

Sticky Joints

The various creaks and pops that somehow work their way into our everyday existence often emanate from our sticky joints.

Dr. Sue Aery

Sometimes it’s a squeak, click, crackle, snap, and some times it may get stuck or hung up for a second. There are so many joints in the body, in different forms, with different components. They are all designed to “articu late,” meaning that they move freely against a surface for a very specific purpose or motion. Let’s take the knee joint, which is very specific in its function. The knee joint joins the upper leg, or femur, with the lower leg, or tibia, and helps us move while walking. There are many different levers and pulleys to control the force, distance and direction of the person walking or running. These components are driven by muscles, which are controlled by the nervous system and the brain at the helm, much like a computer.

Now, let’s get back to the joint – each bone is covered by a layer of cartilage called a meniscus. When we’re young, the meniscus is very supple and smooth, which makes for a comfortable movement where the bones glide over one another with ease. The knee joint is therefore mobile and quick in its movement, with nothing sticky!

As we age over time, whether we have experienced an injury or not, the meniscus can wear down, becoming rough and less mobile. Now, we can begin to hear sounds when we move,

making a creaky noise each time we take a step. The meniscus becomes less lubricated with healthy cells, good blood flow and less space between the bones. This breakdown can then lead to arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis and other forms and causes of pain.

The “squeaky” part is a damaged articulation and may need some help. Some of the natural approaches include acupuncture, TRT, massage, therapeutic ultrasound, physical therapy, etc. Some of the medical approaches involve more invasive procedures, including injections, arthroscopic surgeries and prosthetic replacements.

Remember, long before any of these advanced procedures, listen to your joints! If they are squeaky, make sure that you seek advice from your chiropractor, so that you can take steps to reduce your risk of major surgery!

by Dr. Sue Aery, Aery Chiropractic & Acupuncture

Talking Trash

Iate my Am-Ex card this week.

Mmm …chewy.

I devoured my Diners Club card last week. Meh, You’d think something named Diners Club would taste much better than that. Nuh-uh. The week before, I downed Wells Fargo, and I didn’t even have to hold up the stagecoach.

I’ve applied for a Savor One card. Whoever named it Savor One has a wicked sense of humor. Oh, well, as long as I am eating credit cards: “Waitress – a side of micro-plastic gravy, if you please!”

But, for real, credit cards are not a thing we’d choose for daily consumption, yet we are snarfing about give grams of plastic crumbs per week. That’s the equivalent of a credit card’s weight, and it’s playing havoc in the medical world and our collective gut.

You know all that plastic we dump into the ocean? It’s coming back to us through the sea’s food chain. Fish, sea salt, and most anything packaged in plastic are the culprits. And it doesn’t necessarily come in and go out like the other body-familiar edibles we consume. Remember this rule: if it isn’t a natural food your liver and gut haven’t a clue where to put it or how to

process it. As a result, much of it hangs out in your organs or traffic-jams your internal pathways. Ewww and yikes. It’s the holidays. I apologize. We shouldn’t be talking trash so literally. So, enjoy your holiday feasts, but when you make your New Year’s Resolutions, while pledging to cut back sugar and fat, consider cutting back plastic too. Look for proprietors who use paper or glass packaging. Take recyclable bags to pack your purchases. Consider drinking water from a personal tumbler if you haven’t already. Read online more about how you can change the world one credit card and one plastic container at a time.

Happy holidays to all who seek to make our world a better place in 2023. We’ll consider all that later…right now, dessert awaits. I’ll flambé my Discover card, and we’ll savor those sticky little nanoplastics one last time.

Hear, hear! A toast:

To all odd things on which we dine, And a cup of good ol’ Auld Lang Syne – in a glass.

by Donna Rhodes illustration by Norma Jean Zahner

Pilates Mamas

The demands of motherhood are a challenge to women on the physical, mental, and emotional planes.

Ashby Underwood-Garner

Attention Mamas at Any Age: Giving birth is a selfless physical act.

Mothers for life, our children stay with us even once they are out in the world. We carry them, at first more physically, then emotionally, mentally, and even energetically through “mother’s intuition.”

Birthing is often a lived traumatic experience to a woman’s body with a joyful end. The toll can be lasting as we may not have time for healing fully. We bound into action in service to a vulnerable baby. With both of our sons, I recall my instinctual response time to each cry, giggle, need, and milestone. Mothers transmit our courage and our fears, our disappointments, and our praise.

When a child becomes the center of our world, how do we keep our personal sense of “center?” Postural stability is key. Holding a baby close, shoulders rounding forward, will chal lenge the muscles in the upper back to become fatigued, tight and knotted up. The belly wall, which is already stretched from the baby growing inside, needs a sensitive approach to regain strength.

Mamas who have birthed through a Cesarean Section can have scar tissue that over time can pull hips out of alignment or create pelvic floor strain. The hormonal impulse which softens

the ligaments of the pelvis for birth, is immediately followed by carrying extra weight and the constant shifting of the physical realities of mothering.

Diastasis Recti is a common split in the mid-abdominal wall in women and men. This gap between the vertical muscles of the abdominal core can be felt with your fingers. Diastasis Recti can cause back pain and sciatic pain – common conundrums that therapies such as Massage, Chiropractic and Yoga seek to address sometimes years later. However, training on our Pilates Reformer creates immediate tone and re-weaving of the supporting belly muscles.

In my studio I use sensory feedback and specific exercises, guiding a person to maintain ease and connection throughout the session. Once you gain the understanding of your unique pattern, you will have the knowledge to heal yourself.

How long does it take for a body to come back into shape? Momentum grows when you can stand up with ease and exercise becomes a pleasure. When you can complete your day with energy to spare, you are on your way.

by Ashby Underwood-Garner, Yoga Highlands

Women Who Shape the Plateau

Ann Sherrill and Carol Wilkes photobyMaryGillanRenfro

A Legacy of Welcoming Home

Ann Sherrill’s decades of work on behalf of her community have made her into a Cashiers institution.

For 30 years, Ann Sherrill has created an elegant edge in home design in Cashiers with the furniture store Rusticks. Over the years, her retail business evolved and grew, but her signature style remained what has been termed “mountain chic.”

With the craftsmen’s enthusiastic agreement to make the furniture for them, the two began their retail journey.

“I found inspiration from the feel of the North Carolina mountains,” she says, “I liked to blend the casual lifestyle with sophisticated quality to make rooms that were not just pretty to look at but pleasing to spend time in.”

Ann and her husband Rody had a vacation home in Highlands for many years. She furnished their home with handcrafted furniture made by artisans near their primary home in Lookout Mountain, Tennessee

“People would come to our Highlands home and admire the Adirondack style hickory and willow pieces,” she says.

When Rody retired, the Sherrills decided to make a permanent move to the Plateau. They had the idea that they could find a place to sell that handcrafted furniture that so many of their mountain friends had complimented and asked about. With the craftsmen’s enthusiastic agreement to make the furniture for them, the two began their retail journey.

“I had no experience in retail,” Ann remarks. “I was always interested in design. I just loved shoving furniture around. I learned along the way.”

The shop started in a small attic space owned by local architect Tim Greene. “We started with the furniture and then added accessories. We quickly outgrew that space.” She adds that not only did Tim Greene refer them business, but local realtors did as well.

“We were at the right place at the right time to expand.” Rusticks moved to the fitting Adirondack style cabin in its current location on Cashiers Lake. “The beauty of the setting sets the Rusticks’ aesthetic,” she notes.

Ann also notes how closely she worked together with designers and their customers. She was first introduced to Kathleen Rivers, a Charleston-based designer whose vision informs many homes in Cashiers, when they collaborated to create the Chattooga Club Lodge and Pavilion. “Ann’s amazing talent for interior design enabled her to take handmade furniture that otherwise appeared like repro duced Appalachian craft items and to integrate these pieces with classic more contemporary furniture creating a unique style; a style that looked and felt familiar and yet was exciting and more interesting than before,” Kathleen remarks, adding, “She altered the way people thought about living in a rustic style.”

The Sherrills sold Rusticks in 2021 to Don and Pam Gottwald. Ann comments that the new owners have brought fresh, progressive ideas to the store that continues to grow and thrive. “They have a talented staff who stay up on the trends while maintaining the experience Rusticks’ customers appreciate,” she says.

We worked to make them feel at home and were always thrilled to welcome them back.

That experience has been more than bring ing natural elegance to mountain homes on the Plateau. Ann’s impact has also been about creating a culture of gracious hospitality.

“We always treated our customers like they were guests in our home,” she states, “We worked to make them feel at home and were always thrilled to welcome them back.”

Whether updating an existing home or designing a new house, or perhaps just locating that unique rug or lamp to accent a room, Ann Sherrill has left a legacy in the Plateau that says, “Welcome Home.”

by Ann Self

Sharing the Mountain Experience

The Plateau’s natural bounty lies at the core of Carol Wilkes’ abiding passion.

When Carol Wilkes tells you to “take a hike,” it’s not meant to be pejorative, but rather commendatory. She literally wants you to get outside. She and her family have been giving people this instruction for 40 years as the owners of the Highland Hiker.

As a retailer on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, Carol has not just outfitted customers for outdoor pursuits, she’s also influenced generations of adventurers.

to the Highland Hiker dedicated staff members who are also actively engaged in a variety of outdoor pursuits. Lec Hobbs, the store manager in Cashiers, says “Carol has cre ated a uniquely local shopping experience based on excellent customer service and has been a mentor to many of those in her orbit.”

I was charmed with the idea of doing something different and being in such a beautiful place…

It all began when Carol and her husband, David, vacationed in Highlands in the late seventies. Around that same time Margaret Hoff opened the Happy Hiker on Chestnut Street to sell hiking gear, especially Swiss hiking boots.

Carol was raised in the retail furniture business. “I was charmed with the idea of doing something different and being in such a beautiful place (as the Western North Carolina mountains),” she recalls, “So when Margaret Hoff put up the Happy Hiker for sale in 1982, we bought it.”

The store was located on Chestnut Street. “We were pretty much a destination store. Margaret Hoff had created an outdoor store in a log cabin, and we added fly fishing in addition to hiking, camping and other outdoor activities.” she adds.

They ran the store in that location for nearly a decade before closing and re-opening as the Highland Hiker in a historic Joe Webb cabin on Main Street in 1992. Since then, they have opened additional locations, including a store at the Cashiers crossroads, and expanded their merchandise. But, to this day, the Highland Hiker remains a destination store.

As the business grew, Carol and her family tried to find unusual items to combine with necessary outdoor apparel and gear. “We bought a lot locally like hiking sticks and we sold books and maps by local authors. Our Day Hike Guide was purchased from two forestry majors who moved out of the area.” The store appeals to fly fishermen, paddlers, climbers, hikers, and campers —customers who love outdoors. This extends

“Our clientele has grown and changed over the years,” Carol says. “We have new customers as well as longtime customers.” She observes that it is common to be fitting boots on the children of parents who were outfitted at the Highland Hiker when they were young. Carol comments that what she enjoys most are the stories their customers tell. “The most rewarding part of being in business is hearing how you have been part of peoples’ mountain experiences.”

The Highland Hiker has not only guided their patrons but has also served as a leader in giving back to the HighlandsCashiers community.

Carol credits Yvon Chouinard, the founder of the Patagonia Company, for inspiring their environmental endeavors in the area.

The most rewarding part of being in business is hearing how you have been part of peoples’ mountain experiences.

Carol says, “I have admired him and his wife Malinda greatly. Their environmental philanthropy and dedication made me realize that we have a duty to protect this beautiful land. They began 1% for the planet and we participated for several years and helped save Laurel Knob and helped numerous non-profit environmental groups in our area.”

Next time you find yourself in the Highland Hiker and she tells you to “take a hike,” ask her where you should go. Her favorite answer is always the same. “If you only have time for one hike…Whiteside Mountain.” If you find footprints on that trail, you can be sure that the imprint is a little bit deeper because of Carol Wilkes.

by Ann Self

‘Tis the Season for Gratitude Reflection

Robin Tindall CEO and executive director for the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation, reminds us that this holiday season is not just about gifts and festivities, but it provides organizations with an opportunity for gratitude reflection.

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who has entrusted the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation with generous donations to improve health and well-being throughout our beloved moun tains,” she said, explaining that the Foundation’s cornerstone investment is funding Blue Ridge Health-Highlands Cashiers. “Since opening in summer 2021, the clinic has helped our area’s healthcare shortage problem by serving more than 5,000 patient visits. It is heartwarming to know that so many lives are healthier because local access to high quality, affordable, primary care services are available to everyone. With continued support, we look forward to growth and progress in 2023.”

HCHF was established in 2019 as a 501(c)(3) public charity. Through partnerships with local organizations, key stakehold ers, and caring donors, the Foundation works to make positive and lasting change through investing in projects and programs that advance innovative solutions and improvements in peoples’ health and wellbeing. The Foundation also includes collabora tive grant partnerships that serve the health and wellbeing

across our area.

To date, 89 Foundation grants have helped navigate the com munity toward healthy living.

Added Tindall, “We aim to sustainably improve the well-being of our friends and neighbors, from early childhood to elderly years, through collaborative and transformative grant partner ships with non-profits. Without the backing of our donors, these important investments would not be possible.”

Some of the goals of HCHF are to not only raise awareness about mental health and wellness concerns, but to reduce the stigma associated with both.

Further, Tindall said, “By listening to our communities, along with current research studies, we know there are many families and individuals experiencing some type of mental health concern. Together, we can confront this vital need.”

Donations continue to assist with all of HCHF’s efforts, includ ing future goals for the Blue Ridge Health-Highlands Cashiers clinic. For more information, visit hchealthfnd.org, or call (828) 482-6510.

by Deena Bouknight

As a busy and successful 2022 comes to a close, Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation has ambitions toward even more healthy outcomes in the years ahead.

Robin Tindall

GIVING BACK

photo by Susan Renfro

Community Connection

For Rotarian Dave O’Harra, “coming home” to Highlands meant getting involved directly in the life of the community.

CindyAlewineandDaveO’Harra

When Dave O’Harra first traversed Highlands’ Main Street in 1986, he felt “at home,” and he began visiting the town until he decided to relocate from Florida in 2013 and become a full-time resident. However, it was important to him to not only live in Highlands, but to become fully invested.

The Indiana-born O’Harra, though currently retired, is one of the founding members of the Cullasaja Club. Since his father and grandfather were Rotarians, he decided that joining the Rotary Club of Highlands in 2018 would be an excellent way to truly plug into the Highlands community.

“I learned from a (former) associate pastor at the Methodist church what makes this community work,” said O’Harra. “She said, ‘Coming together in unity and making things happen.’ And that truly is the spirit of our Club. I felt that becoming a Rotarian would be a good way to give back to the community and get to know people – the police chief, publication editors, the mayor, educators, organization leaders, and so many business owners in town who are in partnership with the Club on projects. So many people make this community work, and I wanted to be one of those.”

Even though O’Harra is well-traveled, having visited all 50 states and many countries, he expressed, “There is no question that I am in the best place. It’s hard to describe this community,

but it is certainly very special.”

A year after O’Harra became a Rotarian, he was asked to head the public image committee, which he did for two years. “Then I was asked to be the president nominee and then president-elect, which is what I am now. I will become president in July 2023.”

Overseeing the Public Image Committee truly connected him with the community in that he was tasked with putting out weekly press releases to newspapers and radio stations about meetings, speakers, topics, as well as communicating Rotary activities to the community

Regarding the Rotary Club of Highlands, O’Harra said it is currently a 90-plus member organization, with more members added recently.

And even though Rotary is an international and regional entity, he pointed out, “We focus on our local community and have for 77 years. In fact, we are very involved in the Highlands School, The Literacy Council, Food Pantry, and so much more. We do so much in terms of meeting needs and making this a better place to live.”

by Deena Bouknight

Be An Angel

The Greystone Inn is inviting people across the Plateau to participate in its Angel Tree celebration, which assists local children and disabled seniors.

The Greystone Inn is inviting people across the Plateau to participate in their 5th annual Angel Tree celebration as they give back to our community during the holi days. They have again partnered with Lake Toxaway Charities to work with Rosman area schools to provide gifts and food for over 200 pre-qualified school children, elderly community members, and those who are disabled. The fifth installment of the Angel Tree continues The Greystone Inn’s tradition of goodwill and generosity to its neighbors.

A beautiful tree will be decorated with wooden angel orna ments and on display at The Greystone Inn this December. Each angel represents a local child or senior citizen in need this holiday season. Area businesses and residents are invited to choose an angel from the tree or go to the gift section of The Greystone Inn’s website to sponsor an angel.

“Staff at the four Rosman-area schools will shop, wrap, and deliver the gifts to the students and seniors,” said Shannon Ellis, who owns The Greystone Inn with her husband, Geoffrey. “This year has continued to be a difficult time for our neighbors. The choice to sponsor an angel from the tree for $250 does so much good and makes the holidays of families in need a lot brighter.”

Patrick Chapman, Principal of T.C. Henderson School of

Science and Technology, directly sees the impact of the Angel Tree. The teachers at his school want what’s best for their students, and they do what they can through working long hours, purchasing things out of their own pockets, and ensuring that each child is cared for during the school day. The Angel Tree is a way that outside donors can help support the teachers in this effort, in turn giving children and their families a very happy holiday together.”

The Greystone Inn is inviting people to visit in person, on their website or call to sponsor an angel. Each tax-deductible donation of $250 sponsors a child ages pre-k through high school, providing a complete set of new clothing from shoes to jackets along with a Christmas stocking filled with toiletries and a small gift. There’s also a larger wrapped gift from Santa for each child and if there are other children in the family, they receive a gift as well. The elderly and disabled receive a gift card to a local grocery store, a blanket, and a food box.

For more information, please call Sherry Minnich at (912) 269-6508 or Paulette Todd at (828) 966-4700 or visit greystoneinn.com.

The Best Year

Big Brothers Big Sisters glances back at a frantic, fruitful 2022 before plunging into the promise and possibilities of 2023.

Individually, we can do a lot; but when we come together as a collective, we can do so much more!

Might we say, 2022 has been, by far, the best year! Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cashiers and Highlands has had the amazing honor or working closely with and building new partnerships with many wonderful community organizations and members this year.

Why is this a big deal? Well, the impact we, as a collective, have on our community is enormous.

Allow us to brag on our partners for a moment.

The International Friendship Center in Highlands has been a tremendous supporter of and advocate for BBBS of Cashiers and Highlands with their willingness to serve alongside us in efforts to broaden our reach, expand services and bridge cultural gaps allowing us all to fulfill needs of families.

Together, we have provided experiences to adults and children alike that let individuals engage with varying levels of learn ing. These opportunities include a culturally based cooking experience that encouraged BBBS Bigs and Littles to become

hands-on with their food in new ways. The Bascom of Highlands has also been an amazing collaborative partner this year and in so many years past. With special mention to Billy Love, Deputy Executive Director of the Bascom and BBBS Big Brother of the Year 2022, our partnership has revealed the world of art and the extraordinary effect and impression it has on all our lives. Children in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program have participated in various sessions as a group and as individuals to learn about pottery, medias, photography and more. The coming year will be no different as we kick off the new year teaching Littles about vision boards and goal setting through art.

Most recently, BBBS has collaborated with Circles of Glenville-Cashiers and The Uncomplicated Kitchen (Sylva) to provide opportunities for each program’s participants and community members to enhance their kitchen skills while learning the importance of locally sourced foods and how to affordably create delicious meals for the holidays. We can’t thank our partners enough for their support, their advocacy and involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters: The International Friendship Center, The Bascom, Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau, The Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce, Blue Ridge School, Albert-Carlton Cashiers Library, The Laurel Magazine, The Village Green, Summit Charter School, Circles of Glenville-Cashiers, The Uncomplicated Kitchen, Highlands School, and so many more. BBBS would like to invite you to become a part of the mission and drive to ignite potential in children across the Plateau, and to participate in collaborations like these with us! The opportunities are endless! To learn more, visit bbbswnc.org or call (828) 399-9133.

by Danielle Hernandez, Big Brothers Big Sisters

Children in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program have participated in various sessions as a group and as individuals to learn about pottery, medias, photography and more. Scan to learn more.

Give a Critter a Chance

As you weigh your end-ofthe-year gift giving, consider the cats and dogs sheltered at the CashiersHighlands Humane Society.

Winter in the North Carolina mountains is always a beautiful time.

But cold weather, icy roads and snow pose a chal lenge to our mission to save lives and provide compassionate care. Adoptions drop during this time but the strays we rescue still come in each day, and our expenses soar as we pledge to be a warm and safe shelter from the storm for the abandoned, neglected, and abused animals in our community.

Nearly 500 animals pass through our doors each year, each one receiving daily nutritious meals, monthly flea/heartworm preventatives, vaccinations, and any and all necessary veteri nary treatment. Not to mention a heaping daily dose of tender loving care from our staff and volunteers. CHHS helps reduce pet overpopulation through our low-cost spay/neuter program (for more than 5,000 animals in the past 10 years); our pet pantry program which distributes more than 15,000 pounds of free dog and cat food each year to animal-loving families facing financial hardship; low-cost rabies vaccinations to keep pets safe and in compliance with North Carolina law; and humane education programs like our summer Critter Camp which teaches children important life skills like dog bite prevention, canine body language and responsible pet ownership.

Please consider a tax-deductible gift to fund our lifesaving work. You can donate in one of three ways:

• Mail your check to: CHHS, P.O. Box 638, Cashiers, NC 28717;

• You can charge your donation to your credit card by calling us at (828) 743-5769;

• You can donate to our website by visiting CHhumanesociety. org and clicking on the red “Donate” button on the top right of the home page.

Your charitable donation of any amount is so appreciated and needed now more than ever. Thirty dollars feeds a shelter pet for a month. Fifty dollars will pay for a spay or neuter. One-hundred dollars provides the funds for a year’s worth of vital vaccinations and preventatives. Gifts of greater amounts will significantly help with the veterinary care for our specialneeds animals. Our shelter pets, once abandoned in their past, now have a second chance at life and a second chance to love because of your kindness and generosity. Thank you so much for your support.

Established in 1987, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit animal welfare organization located at 200 Gable Drive in Sapphire, one-and-a-half miles east of the Cashiers Ingles in between Cedar Creek Club and Lonesome Valley on Highway 64. Our no-kill shelter is open Tuesday through Saturday 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

by David Stroud, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society

Merry Christmas From Carpe Diem

Happy Holidays to you and your loved ones from all of us here at Carpe Diem Farms!

That “all of us” naturally includes our extraordinary horses, who shower us (and our guests) with blessings both great and small. And I can’t ignore our Ranch Dog Jethro, who’s proved to be such a happy presence for humans and beasts alike.

But I also wanted to include the little lives on the fringes of Carpe Diem Farms, the travelers who’ve somehow made it here

and have inevitably sweetened our days and nights. So, Merry Christmas from our Little Bear, our Brave Raccoon, and our sweet Feral Cat. They all have a role to play in the drama of life here at Carpe Diem Farms and they each have a reason to be grateful for the support you’ve given us over the years.

by Sue Blair, Carpe-Diem Farms

All creatures great and small are sending you warm Christmas Wishes.

A Celebration of 40 Years

CashiersChamberofCommerceBoardMembersandStaff:RobinPickle,ThomasTaulbee,OscarAlcantar,SarahJennings,LecHobbs,GlennUbertino, GarrettTaylor,JohannesKlapdohr,BrandyLetson,StephanieEdwards,andDanielFletcher.Notpictured: BenHarris,AshtonHarrisandSusanGregory.

The Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce celebrates its 40th Anniversary with a new slate of directors, a robust membership, and a dynamic energy to face the promises and pitfalls of the upcoming years.

New directors and officers of the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce were recently elected in a membership-wide vote of support. The Chamber is celebrating its 40th anniversary and recently surpassed more than 500 business, nonprofit and associate members from Cashiers, Glenville, Lake Toxaway, Sapphire and other Plateau communities.

Outgoing President Glenn Ubertino, of Zoller Hardware, will continue his board service as Past President while Ben Harris, of Harris Custom Builders and Silver Run Reserve, assumes the President title. Ashton Harris, of The County Club of Sapphire Valley, will move from Treasurer to President-Elect and Sarah Jennings, of Cashiers Valley Real Estate and Lonesome Valley, will take his former position. Chamber executive director Stephanie

The Nominations Committee and current Board of Directors made special efforts to ensure commitment and diversity among future leadership.

Edwards continues to serve as Board Secretary. Daniel Fletcher, of Hotel Cashiers, was reappointed Vice President/Jackson County Tourism Development Authority liaison. Returning directors include Oscar Alcantar of Alcantar Painting; Lec Hobbs of Highland Hiker and chair of the organization’s Retail Roundtable; Johannes Klapdohr of The Library Kitchen & Bar; Brandy Letson of Cashiers Valley Pharmacy; Robin Pickel of Historic Toxaway Market and Mountain Cafe; Garrett Taylor of Taylor’d Designs, and Dr. Don Tomas of Southwestern Community College. Glenville resident Susan Gregory, of Landmark Realty Group, will join the board as a Vice President/Leadership Cashiers liaison.

The 2023 officers and directors slate were previously recommended to the full membership after consideration

of candidates’ business industry, location, length of residence, availability, and other civic involvement. The Nominations Committee and current Board of Directors made special efforts to ensure commitment and diver sity among future leadership.

Directors help set priorities in support of the Chamber’s Core Purpose: To supply extraordinary Leadership in the Cashiers Area as an Advocate for business, Information Source for the community and Conduit for building destination awareness and responsible growth. They provide valuable strategic leadership for the organization’s programming, member services and benefits, and com munity and economic development initiatives.

In 2022, the Chamber contracted with the Urban Land

Institute to conduct a fact-based growth management analysis of the Cashiers Area. It’s currently leading the newly-formed “Cashiers Community Collaborative,” a group of organizational stakeholders who will coordinate economic and community development as identified in the ULI Report (see CashiersAreaChamber.com) to leverage funding and other resources.

“Our Board members are dedicated and talented business owners who generously volunteer their time and energy to ensure the success of the Chamber and community,” said Edwards. “My associate Thomas Taulbee, who serves as Manager/Jackson County Cashiers Visitor Center and Director of Member/Community Relations, and I look forward to supporting their efforts in the coming year.”

For more information on the Chamber, visit CashiersAreaChamber.com or email office@ CashiersAreaChamber.com.

by Stephanie Edwards, Executive Director, Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce

Our Board members are dedicated and talented business owners who generously volunteer their time and energy to ensure the success of the Chamber and community Scan to learn more.

The 12 Ways at Christmas

A dynamic 2022 brought Highlands a calendar crammed with fun and a focus on the Good Things ahead.

The end of a year brings an opportunity for reflection. So, Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC took a moment to look back on 2022 and 12 of the ways in which we were honored to enhance our treasured community’s quality of life.

1 – Leadership Highlands

Resurrected this year after a hiatus, Leadership Highlands developed and empowered 14 graduates to positively engage in the future of our community.

2 – Plateau Pickup

Breaking previous records, approximately 130 volunteers helped spruce up Highlands and its surrounding highways in April, collecting 15 tons of garbage along the roadways.

3 – Outdoor Concert Series

Six months. Almost 50 concerts. Two locations. Acknowledgement by Blue Ridge Music Trails of NC. The Friday Night Live and Saturdays on Pine concerts brought to

gether diverse audiences the way only music can. (Our Meander in May event brought even more music and artists downtown.)

4 – Fourth of July

The long Independence Day weekend saw almost a dozen events hosted by a variety of organizations, concluding with our traditional fireworks display and concert, for enjoyment by all.

5 – Our Welcome Center

There’s a reason it’s not called the Visitors Center. Our Welcome Center staff and volunteers help both residents and visitors alike be in the know about all things Highlands.

6 – Shred Event

We collected more than just the two tons (or 15 garbage cans worth) of paper at this year’s Shred Event. We also passed along more than $800 in community donations to support our area’s first bilingual mental health counselor and the Plateau Behavioral Health Collaborative.

7 – Autumn Ovation Awards

Congratulations to Cindy Trevathan, Mountain Findings and Dauntless Printing – all honored for outstanding service to the Highlands community at our annual Autumn Ovation event.

8 – Highlands Heritage Jamboree

This inaugural event paid tribute to the families, culture and traditions of Highlands with bagpipes, bluegrass and the championship Bailey Mountain Cloggers. Did we see you flat footing?

9 – Halloween on Main

Two bands, a DJ, bouncy houses, snacks and hundreds of amazing costumes donned by trick or treaters of all ages made this year’s Halloween on Main one to remember.

10 – Downtown Beautification

Highlands’ quintessential downtown is the ideal place to spend a day shopping, dining and exploring. Our landscaping and cleaning of the garbage containers help ensure these moments are picture perfect.

11 – Highlands Holiday Events

Starting with Light Up the Park and Main and continuing through Trim Our Town and Snow Fest at 4118 in January, we make every effort to make your holiday season sparkle.

12 – Highlands Christmas Parade

This holiday event deserves its own mention. We hope to see you along Main Street Dec. 3 from 10:30 a.m. to Noon for the best parade around!

Because ‘tis the season of giving – and we love to give! -- we’ll close with a bonus:

13 – Tourism Grant Program & Sponsorships

This past fiscal year, we granted more than $256,000 to 15 local, non-profit organizations that supply educational and cultural experiences.

Thank you to everyone who contributes to a happy, healthy Highlands. Here’s to a wonderful 2023!

by Kara Addy

Communications Manager, Highlands Chamber of Commerce

A Founding Partner

Beaumont Ridge

6 BR / 6 BA / 2 HBA

Perched atop a flat ridge within the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains of the Western North Carolina Appalachian chain, Beaumont Ridge Farm offers the unparalleled sanctuary of days long past. Prestigiously selected as the 2014 Cashier’s Designer Showhouse, the premier estate has only been improved upon since with extensive renovations in every residence, bringing modern luxury to the picturesque and private property. Discover a bucolic 40± acres of pristine pastoral land with a spectacular main house flanked by a two-bedroom guest house and additional bunk house. Soaring vaulted ceilings and incredible views greet you at every turn, the perfect accent to exposed stone walls and rustic finishes befitting a luxury country

inn. A new multi-discipline riding ring, four contiguous pastures, and a six-stall barn will delight any equestrian. Outbuildings, workshops, and garages ensure ample space to enjoy every hobby. Pass the time fishing at Lake Glenville and along western North Carolina’s fabled fly-fishing trail, or in the trout-stocked pond on property, skeet shooting in the back pasture, or hiking the property’s perimeter trails, all while pristine, lush landscaping and breathtaking views of Laurel Knob and Cow Rock Mountains paint a picture-perfect backdrop. With incredible entertaining spaces both indoors and out, you can host a gathering of any size that will wow the most discerning of guests. This fine estate is subdividable for those who wish to share with up to 7 owners. MLS 100977

Chattooga Club

4 BR / 3 BA / 2 HBA

Modern mountain luxury perfectly describes this estate home located within the Chattooga Club on a private lot and just a few minutes from Cashiers. This home has undergone a major upscale renovation including a chef’s kitchen with a walk-in pantry, light and airy finishes, and the flowing, open floor plan the modern buyer seeks. The main level leads you from the vaulted kitchen and dining room into the upscale great room, and out onto the fully finished Carolina porch featuring year-round use through automatic canvas shades. Multiple wood-burning fireplaces provide a modern mountain ambiance, and walls of windows allow you to take in the long

range mountain views throughout the entire home. A cozy library with its own fireplace welcomes you through to the beautiful oversized Primary Suite located on the main level. Upstairs features a large guest suite and a bonus room with its own full bath and beautiful views from each room. The lower level features a large family room, sun room, half bath and laundry room. The exterior completes this home with a winding, stone driveway lined with beautiful landscaping including garden lighting and elegant trees. The stone terrace off of the kitchen is the perfect spot to enjoy views, a mature garden, and the activity lawn. MLS 101045

High Hampton

4 BR / 4.5 BA This vintage mountain home, on 1.57 acres, has a “slight ranch-contemporary” character due to its low profile, earth hugging nature, and a great number of windows offering an abundance of natural light. Enter the property from a long sweeping private driveway which opens to a gentle yard with ample parking. A babbling water feature greets all at the front door. The focal point of the view is the pride of south Cashiers—ancient Rock Mountain, with Chimneytop Mountain right next to it. Enjoy the close up dramatic face of Rock Mountain from the major rooms of the home, the screened porch and the covered deck with

wood-burning fireplace. Inside, the vaulted great room has its own “rock mountain” — a giant fireplace anchoring this space and greeting guests at the foyer. This spacious home has excellent bones and generously sized rooms, and there is a bonus room on the far side of the attached carport that will work well for a home office, kids play space or home gym. Its proximity to the Inn, the Club and the Fazio reimagined golf course is enhanced by a community walking trail at the edge of the lot. This property offers great potential to be a generational home for those who embrace both the old and new High Hampton. MLS 100512

3 BR / 3.5 BA This one-of-a-kind 6+ acre property with stunning views features a main house with your own private water feature, three bedrooms including two spacious masters on the main level, three beautiful stone fireplaces, expansive decks to enjoy the view and tranquility, custom cabinets, hardwood floors, and a family room.

This property is perfect for open-air activities with nature surrounding you, a rustic barn fit for small livestock and a large separate workshop with a concrete floor, power, and electricity. A circular driveway gives you access to all of the buildings. The property also includes a generator, gazebo, and private well. MLS 100948

2 BR / 2 BA Snowbird is the most unique community in our area, focusing on these most desired prime attributes: large private estate parcels (all over 20 acres), beautiful long range views, frolicking streams and noisy waterfalls and a patchwork of rolling open fields connected by common hiking and horseback riding trails. This Modern Craftsman style home is oriented on a knoll facing southeast, was built to offer passive solar advantage and is Energy Star certified. At over 4000’ elevation, there is an additional, higher site on this tract that could accommodate

a guest house or private pavilion. Inside the layout is simple- primary bedroom and bath on the main level with kitchen, living/den and view porch. There is a covered breezeway leading to the large two-car garage. Downstairs is another bedroom, bath, laundry and a large common area, recently used as a craft/hobby room. This property would be an awesome retreat for artists, writers and anyone seeking peace and quiet, within the comfort of a gated neighborhood. New exterior paint in 2022! MLS 99164

Glenville $875,000

49 ACRES Sarvis Ridge ... Rolling meadow, dense woods, table flat building site at the top, over 4,020’ elevation. Small dipping pond in the meadow. The property can be divided into four parcels (5 acre minimums). The Webb Lake 1930’s cabin, common area lake and trails and caretaker home are directly across the road from this prime tract. Southern to eastern views are into the 600 acre Webb conservation easement. This heritage property has unlimited potential! MLS 98418

Norton Area $849,000

22.96 ACRES This unrestricted property offers mountain views in multiple directions. Accessed by a well constructed, long, private driveway, the original 1970s summer cabin recently burned to the ground. The primary homesite sits at 3,930’ elevation amongst large deciduous trees and a rolling mossy yard. Plenty of options for additional homesites. Location, view, topography and an existing driveway make this a prime property for an estate or light development. MLS 97957

High Hampton

$695,000

Sassafras Ridge

$175,000

1.53 ACRES

It is rare to find a resale lot in High Hampton, and this one is prime! The property is located on the “original/Inn” side of the neighborhood, which means no highway crossing is needed to walk to the great amenities. Grand potential view of famed Rock Mountain with approved clearing, this lot also fronts the Cherokee Campgrounds’ greenspace with direct access to the trail system. East to southeast views to the mountain provide sunsets “on the rock.” MLS 97439

High Hemlock

$159,000

An absolutely beautiful homesite that is a hidden mountain gem! This lot has a view of Double Knob mountain and also offers a great deal of privacy. The lush wooded landscape of large hardwoods and mountain laurel is the perfect backdrop for someone to build their dream mountain home. This lot also shares a small pond with adjacent property owner. Paved access directly to the lot makes easy ingress and egress. MLS 98115

3.76 ACRES

Jack Knife ... This tract offers a wonderful location in Sassafras along a gentle ridge creating easy access onto the property. Gravel driveway is in, house site with framed mountain view and view overlooking Sassafras’ signature meadow. MLS 98133

4.09 ACRES

Bear Wallow Springs

$100,000

Private wooded lot with plenty of building potential adjacent to the Fazio Learning Center at Lake Toxaway Country Club. Bear Wallow Springs borders Lake Toxaway which is the largest private lake in NC with 640 acres and approximately 14 miles of shoreline. This small golf-centric community offers access to the greater amenities of Lake Toxaway which includes the Lake Toxaway Country Club. MLS 98257

4.44 ACRES

Cashiers

Strawberry Hill

days and evenings. Just a short distance from Lake Glenville including a deeded access point to the lake within the community, a quick drive to Happ’s Place, or an easy drive into Cashiers for more shops and restaurants, this cottage will make the perfect little summer getaway with great rental potential. MLS 100451

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Bijou Jewelry bijoujeweler.com P 76

Bird Barn & Garden P 100

Black Rock Design Build blackrockdesignbuild-highlands.com P 58, 142

The Blue Elephant P 153

Blue Ridge Bedding blueridgebedding.com P 122

Blue Ridge Music blueridgemusicacademy.com P 117

Bombshell Hair Boutique P 157

Bounds Cave’s Rug Gallery boundscaverugs.com P 29

Bungalow Boutique bungalow828.com P 97

C Orrico corrico.com P 52

Calders Coffee Cafe calderscoffeecafe.com P 83

Caliber Fine Properties caliberfineproperties.com P 106, 107

Carolina Rustic Furniture carolinarusticfurniture.com P 122

Cashiers Chamber of Commerce cashiersareachamber.com P 149

Cashiers Candy Shoppe P 128

Cashiers Kitchen Company P 100

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus P 57

Cashiers Valley Smokehouse cashiersvalleysmokehouse.com P 87

Center for Plastic SurgeryRobert T. Buchanan, MD plasticsurgerytoday.com P 131

Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals highlandsiscalling.com P 142, 148

Charles Johnson Fine Art Photography charlesjohnsonfineart.com P 75

Chocolate Heaven/Cake Bar P 24

Christine’s Home Decor christineshomedecor.com P 143

The Christmas Tree P 47

Classic Lighting & Design, Inc. classiclightinganddesign.com P 52

Country Club Properties ccphighlandsnc.com P 2

Creative Concepts P 142

The Dancing Bear at the High Dive P 85 Dauntless Printing dauntlessprinting.com P 60, 143 Diane McPhail, Artist P 68 The Dry Sink thedrysink.com P 25 Dutchmans dutchmansdesigns.com P 28 Elena’s Women’s Golf and Activewear elenagolf.com P 97 The Exchange P 135 Fire + Water firemt.com P 15, 40 Fire Mountain Inn & Cabins firemt.com P 15, 40 Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar four65.com P 88 Dr. Edward D. Frederickson MD FACP P 133 Fressers Courtyard Cafe wecaterhighlands.com P 91 Fusion Yoga & Wellness fusionyogaandwellness.com P 155 Gracewear Boutique gracewearcollection.com P 147 Grand Olde Station grandoldestation.com P 95 The Greystone Inn thegreystoneinn.com P 4 Green Mountain Builders greenmountainbuilders.com P 133 Head Innovations P 142 High Camp HighCampNC.com P 4 The High Dive P 85 Highland Hiker highlandhiker.com P 45 Highlands Aerial Park highlandsaerialpark.com P 40 Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation hchealthfnd.org P 141 Highlands Chamber of Commerce highlandschamber.org P 33 Highlands Dermatology highlandsdermatology.com P 133 Highlands Fine Art & Estate Jewelry Wine Shop highlandsfineart.com P 22, 23 Highlands Lawn & Garden P 53 Highlands Outpost highlandsoutpost.com P 40 Highlands Pharmacy P 55 Highlands Rock Yard highlandsrockyard.com P 53 Highlands Smokehouse highlandssmokehouse.com P 89

Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty - Andrea Gabbard sothebysrealty.com P 98, 99 Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty - Sheryl Wilson highlandssir.com P 143 Highlands Transportation Company P 148

Hummingbird Lounge oldedwardsinn.com P 35 International Auction LLC internationalauctionllc.com P 116

Jack’s Upholstery P 143

Jeanie Edwards Fine Art jedwardsfineart.com P 65 Jennings Builders Supply jbwnc.com P 46 Josephine’s Emporium P 143

John Cleaveland Realty jcrealty.com P 60

King Background Screening kingbackgroundscreening.com P 142 The Kitchen

CarryAway and Catering thekitchenofhighlands.com P 90 Lakeside Restaurant P 92

Landmark Realty Group - Pam Nellis landmarkrg.com P 143

Laura Moser Art

lauramoserart.com P 5

Las Margaritas P 93

Lehotsky & Sons lehotskyandsons.com P 142, 159

Lenz Gifts & Luxury Linens P 105, 156

Leslie Jeffery, Artist lesliejeffery.art P 69

The Look Boutique P 27

Lupoli Construction lupoliconstruction.com P 54

Main Street Gifts P 155

Main Street Nursery P 157

Marlene & Co P 20

Martha Anne’s P 152

Martin Lispcomb

Performing Arts Center highlandsperformingarts.com P 67

McCulley’s P 3

McKee Properties mckeeproperties.com P 77, 123, 162-174

McKee Properties - Maggie Elmer mckeeproperties.com P 123

McKee Properties - Liz Harris mckeeproperties.com P 168, 169, 174

McKee Properties - Beth Townsend mckeeproperties.com P 77, 166-167, 170-173

Mirror Lake Antiques mirrorlakeantiques.com P 27

Morales Painting P 97

Mountain Spring Spas and Pools mountainhotspring.com P 17

Mountain Theatre Company mountaintheatre.com P 71

Mountainworks

Custom Home Design, Ltd. mtnworks.com P 43

Nancy’s Fancys P 135

Nearly New nearlynewnc.com P 151

Nora & Co P 26

Oak Steakhouse oaksteakhousehighlands.com P 78

Old Edwards Inn & Spa oldedwardsinn.com P 35, 142

On the Verandah ontheverandah.com P 86

Pat Calderone calderonegallery.com P 74

Peggy Marra peggymarra.com P 69

Peak Experience peakexp.com P 129

Preferred Properties of Highlands ppoh.com P 112, 113

Preferred Properties of Highlands - Ann Scott ppoh.com P 143

ProServicess P 143

Rabun Flooring rabunflooring.com P 116

Reach of Macon County reachofmaconcounty.org P 133

Rebecka’s Home Cleaning Service P 142

Rent In Highlands-CCP rentinhighlands.com P 146

Ristorante Paoletti paolettis.com P 83

Rusticks rusticks.com P 11, 68

Sapphire Valley Real Estate sapphirevalleyrealestate.com P 144

Shakespeare and Company shakespeareandcompanyhighlands.com P 135

Silver Creek Real Estate Group ncliving.com P 36-39

Skyline Lodge skyline-lodge.com P 78

Slab Town Pizza slabtownpizza.com P 87

Slanted Window Tasting Room P 26

Smitten P 74

The Southern Way P 117

The Spa Boutique at Old Edwards Inn oldedwardsinn.com P 35

Spoiled Rotten spoiledrotten2.com P 129

Stork’s Wrap, Pack & Ship P 15

The Summer House by Reeves summerhousehighlands.com P 114

Tarah’s Beauty Bar P 142

TJ Bailey’s for Men tjbmens.com P 59

The Ugly Dog Pub - Highlands theuglydogpub.com P 84

Vic’s for Men victoriasclosetnc.com P 151

Victoria’s Closet victoriasclosetnc.com P 151

Victoria’s Sportswear victoriasclosetnc.com P 151

The Village Green villagegreencashiersnc.com P 178 Village Hound P 10

Wanderview Hospitality wanderviewhost.com P 90

Warth Construction warthconstruction.com P 180

The Watershed Shoppe P 21

WHLC FM 104.5 whlc.com P 17

Wilbanks Smile Center - Dr. Joe Wilbanks wilbankssmilecenter.com P 124

Willow Valley willowvalleyrv.com P 44

Wit’s End P 19

Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro wolfgangs.net P 5 Woofgang Bakery & Grooming P 153

Zoller Hardware zollerhardware.com P 100, 143

The Zookeeper Bistro thezookeeperbistro.com P 93