Independence Day Celebrations

Perhaps July 4, 2021 may mean more to people this year than it has in a long time. Freedoms taken for granted were stifled for many months due to an unseen germ, and celebrating Independence Day in 2020 was for the most part shackled because of pandemic fears.

Highlands Chamber of Commerce’s Visit Highlands, NC, will be providing live music all weekend as well as the Fireworks Finale. The music begins on Friday, July 2, at 6:00 P.M. with the Foxfire Boys at Town Square on Main Street and continues on Saturday at KelseyHutchinson Founders Park with Blaze the City, which spotlights vocal harmonies and funky dance rhythms playing pop, funk, rock, country, blues and Motown.

On Saturday, July 3, attention shifts to the Town Ballfield.

First up, it’s the Boy Scouts’ Water Rocket Launch from 9:00 to 11:00 A.M.

Once the launch site has been cleared and the scouts have changed into dry clothes, everyone is invited to participate in Traditional Field Games from 11:00 A.M. to noon.

That should ensure that everyone is good and hungry for the town’s Hot Dog Lunch from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.

From noon to 1:00 P.M., the MAMA (Mountain Area Medical Airlift) Helicopter and its crew will land and present a close-up view to the public.

The Rotary Duck Derby will be staged at Mill Creek from 1:30 to 2:30 P.M.

This year’s July Fourth band will be Moon Dance, a band specializing in tributes to each decade with music from the 1950s to the 2000s; this concert is also at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park

The Rocket’s Red Glare

There’s so much fun packed into the Plateau’s Fourth of July celebration that it’s spread over an entire weekend.

starting at 6:00 P.M.

And in a last minute development, Cashiers will stage its own celebration with a rocking concert by the popular dance band Continental Divide at 6:00 P.M. Sunday, July 4 at the Village Green Commons.

Sapphire Valley will host its Yankee Doodle Dandy Day on July 4th, which includes a cake walk, inflatables for kids, duckie derby, etc. Wristbands will be available to purchase for activities and food. A band will be performing throughout the day.

And, looking to get an early start on the fun, Town and Country General Store in Cashiers is hosting Mile High Band, from 6:00 to 9:00 P.M. Saturday, July 3.

Of course, in all of this act responsibly, don’t do stupid stuff, and enjoy the joyful freedom of a Quarantine-Free celebration.

by Deena Bouknight / photo by Susan Renfro

Fireworks at

Lake Glenville

The 24th Annual Friends of Lake Glenville Fireworks Over the Lake, slated for 9:30 P.M. Saturday, July 3, is a beautiful celebration of an indefatigable community spirit.

Lake Glenville is going forward with its annual fireworks display. The 24th Annual Friends of Lake Glenville Fireworks Over The Lake will be held on Saturday, July 3, at approximately 9:30 PM.

People can either gather safely and responsibly in their watercraft or find an ideal site on land to celebrate America’s Independence Day. The fireworks will be launched from The Pointe, which is just north of Trillium on the west side of Lake Glenville.

Law enforcement will be monitoring watercraft to make sure that people are maintaining safety on the lake.

In 1997, to celebrate the Fourth of July, Stuart Hall and his friends launched fireworks over Lake Glenville from Tom Turner’s Buck Knob Island construction barge.

That year, Stuart and Co. also directed a fun boat parade of “The Glenville Navy.” The floating parade is no longer part of the festivities, but the fireworks have become one of the most anticipated events of the year.

Ceding the point that firing explosives from a barge wasn’t exactly the safest idea, the show moved on shore at The Pointe, which is just north of Trillium’s facilities on the Western shore of the lake. The generous homeowners of The Pointe have allowed the show to be launched there ever since.

Boats begin to gather in the water well ahead of the show. Their lights reflect on the glassy surface of Lake Glenville, adding to the glittering display that begins at dusk, around 9:30 P.M.

There are also great viewing areas on land along Highway 107 all the way up to Signal Ridge Marina.

by Deena Bouknight

Secrets of Snot Otters

We’ll bet you didn’t know you had a neighbor that goes by the name Snot Otter. You can learn all about these misunderstood creatures at the virtual Village Nature series presentation at 5:00 P.M. July 29. Check HCLT’s website or Facebook page for a zoom link to this presentation.

“Snot Otter,” “devil dog,” “lasagna lizard,” “mud devil” are just a few of the colorful names used to describe one of the largest, wrinkliest, slimiest and most fascinating salamanders native to the Appalachian Mountains. Hellbenders, as they are commonly called, live in cool, clean, fast flowing streams in the Southern and Central Appalachians. Many of the streams that originate in the Highlands Cashiers Plateau flow into rivers where hellbenders are found. These gray to brown flat salamanders with heavily folded skin can reach over two feet in length as mature adults. Their appearance can be off-putting to some and historic myths that hellbenders were venomous caused many to be killed out of fear. While hellbenders are actually harmless to people, they are important predators of crayfish and other aquatic critters. But hellbenders are at risk. Like all amphibians, hellbenders breathe through their skin and require extremely clean water to survive. Water pollution, runoff, habitat disturbance, and habitat loss have all contributed to decline in hellbender populations across their range. The first step in conservation of these often misunderstood creatures is through education of their habitat, biology, and behavior.

You can learn more about the “Secrets of Snot Otters” through our virtual Village Nature series presentation on July 29 at 5:00 P.M. as Lori Williams, Wildlife Biologist for the NC Wildlife Resources

Commission, delves into the lives of these fascinating beasts. The Village Nature Series (VNS) is a monthly speaker event co-hosted by The Village Green and Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, featuring experts in their field presenting on wildlife, habitats, conservation, and local cultural heritage. Traditionally, these events are held at The Village Green Commons in Cashiers, NC, however, this presentation will be held virtually. Check HCLT’s website or Facebook page for a zoom link to this presentation.

HCLT is a non-profit conservation organization dedicated to preserving the unique natural resources of the HighlandsCashiers Plateau through conservation, stewardship and education. To learn more, visit www.hicashlt.org.

by Sarah Pursel, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust

Local farmers’ markets are some of the best places to not only choose just picked, super-fresh produce, but also handcrafted, distinct wares. Home-grown, handpicked, and handmade local goodness can be found at the Green Market, Village Green Commons, in Cashiers, from 2-5 P.M. every Wednesday, though October 27. According to Ann Self, Village Green director, the market is “producer only,” meaning that the vendor must be the grower or producer of all the products they sell. Plus, vendors must produce within a 125-mile radius of Cashiers.

Besides filling a basket with naturally raised meat and dairy items, fresh eggs, jams, pickles, freshly baked bread, and delicious granola, there are fresh-cut flowers for the table, herb-scented soaps for gifts and personal use, and much more.

One of the vendors is local farmer Don Deal, who is a member of a multi-generational farming family. The Deals, in fact, were among the first settlers to the area, and records show that Deal ancestors purchased Cherokee lands from the U.S. Government. Growing food on the rich land has been a way of life and a tradition for the Deals, and they have passed down important farming skills through the generations.

Don has been bringing the family’s freshly grown produce to the Green for the past five years. He said, “Cashiers residents are very fortunate to have and should be proud of the facilities at the Green.” He added that he especially appreciates that the market can operate

Greens on the Green

Shopping at the Green Market, staged every Wednesday afternoon at the Village Green in Cashiers, is a link to the community’s past and its future.

rain or shine with plenty of parking, bathrooms, and an openair pavilion.

The Green Market will continue to follow best practices to ensure the safety and well-being of customers and vendors. Customers should plan to bring face coverings to shop. Customers should also stay home if they are experiencing illness of any kind. Vendors are expected to follow the same procedures as customers, in addition to ensuring safe setup and sanitizing practices. To keep up with Green Market news and happenings at Village Green Common, visit CashiersGreenMarket.com.

by Deena Bouknight

Highlands Market

Treasures for the kitchen and the home are offered every Saturday morning at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park.

There’s nothing like taking the time to prepare a good homecooked meal, and weekends are when we have time to cook from scratch.

Any good cook knows that a special meal calls for the finest ingredients, so why not visit the Highlands Marketplace on Saturday mornings from 8:00 A.M. until 12:30 P.M. at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on Pine Street and pick up the freshest ingredients for your creation.

This open air market is a feast for the senses offering our area’s freshest produce, meats, seafood, and other products. The dew has barely dried on the produce, picked fresh from the fields.

Local farmers, craftsmen, and artists gather here under colorful tents selling the bounty of the season. Fresh produce of every imaginable kind can be found here on any given Saturday, and you can complete your menu with meats, seafood, fresh eggs, homemade breads, pastries, pies, jams, jellies, relishes, and dips, just to mention a few of the many delicious items available.

If you’re looking for something already prepared, why not pick up a quiche? Heat and Eat never tasted so good.

Your options are practically limitless so take your time to savor the selections. It’s a new and different delight every week so plan to start your weekend choosing the best of the mountains.

Don’t forget to check out all the local craft items available for sale here, too. Your perfect basket, homemade quilt, beautiful picture or piece of pottery will take on a special meaning when you have a chance to meet the artist, and hear firsthand the inspiration and hard work that went into each piece.

Saturday mornings are just right here at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park.

by Mary Jane McCall

Music, Wine, & CLE

The Center for Life Enrichment will give you plenty to wine about with its exciting new summer series. For more information, visit clehighlands.com.

Davis Picklesimer and Karen Hunt

CLE isn’t just about Life Enrichment, it’s about lifelong enjoyment. Now that safe-mingling is back, let the celebration begin!

CLE’s new Winemakers Series will present unique opportunities for some serious shoulder-rubbing at personalized wine tastings in addition to one-on-one conversations with domestic and internationally renowned vintners.

Board members Davis Picklesimer and Karen Hunt collectively have decades of professional and personal relationships within the wine industry. She served in leadership positions in several Napa Valley giants. She was President of DAOU Winery as well as V.P. of Francis Ford Coppola Winery and Peter Mondavi Family Wintery.

She says, “I had the opportunity to meet many winemakers and executives. They are a close-knit group. But no one knew about the exceptional chefs and fine quality food and wine associated with Highlands. It’s a well-kept secret.”

Part of her duties (though she thinks of it as joy) was to invite winemakers and winery owners to gatherings at patrons’ homes. Hosts arranged for wine enthusiasts, aka serious purchasers to indulge in extraordinary evenings with Napa’s wine makers and masters.

Karen calls Highlands The Aspen of the East Coast. She’s eager to put Highlands on a very prestigious map. She and Davis (proprietor of Highlands Wine Shop) accepted positions on the Center for Life Enrichment Board. They are hard at work applying their expertise to promotion of the Highlands wine, food, and entertainment community through the educational prowess of CLE, the Highlands Chamber, OEI, and other generous businesses. Michael Trujillo, a renowned California winemaker, wowed … the exceptional chefs and Highlands with a June visit, schmoozing fine quality food and wine with 56 locals at a planned informal associated with Highlands. gathering. If you want to experience his exceptional wines, Highlands Wine Shop now carries them. Brian Larky, founder of Dalla Terra Wine will be coming to Highlands July 21-22. Visit clehighlands.com for the latest listing of unveilings, tastings, restaurant-partnering, and soirées. Learn how CLE will bring wine luminaries like Larky directly to you. And if you have the heart and the time, CLE still needs volunteers. Remember, Center for Life Enrichment keeps putting the CLE in clever! by Donna Rhodes

Wildlife in Wild Places

Mountain Wildlife Days at Sapphire Valley Resort, slated for July 16 and 17, is a rare opportunity to meet and understand our furred and feathered neighbors. For information, visit highlandsouthadventures. com or call the Sapphire Resort Community Center at (828) 743-7663.

Immerse yourself into the awe-inspiring world of nature and live animals at the 14th Mountain Wildlife Days, July 16 and 17.

Co-sponsored by and held at Sapphire Valley Resort, the weekend features a series of exceptional experiences and programs for adults and children to learn about wildlife and wild places. The two-day series of presentations and lectures offers a singular perspective on the astounding lives of wild creatures and teaches us why it’s important we care about them.

Participants can kick off their weekend with a Friday Morning Bird Walk led by “birders” from the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society or choose from one of two hikes led by an experienced local hiker to one of two scenic locations and waterfalls.

On Friday afternoon, licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator Carlton Burke will headline a special free admission program for youth groups titled Owls of the Night. A self-described “freelance naturalist” who has been rehabilitating and caring for injured and orphaned animals for more than 30 years, Burke operates the educational service Carolina Mountain Naturalists.

Friday evening events include Bryan Heller on piano and an extraordinary photo collection by Bill Lea – Caring for Creation.

On Saturday morning, Carlton Burke will return with a program featuring some of Western North Carolina’s mammals, reptiles and snakes and explore why their struggle to survive in the wild has become increasingly difficult.

Also, on Saturday morning, “Snake Man” Steve O’Neil will showcase his collection of native reptiles, amphibians, and other animals. A passionate wildlife and nature conservationist, O’Neil advocates for our fragile environment through his organization – Earthshine Nature Program – with outreaching programming, science advocacy, and renewable energy messages.

“Wolf Man” Rob Gudger follows. A wildlife biologist who became fascinated with wolves during a career with Duke Energy, Gudger’s ever-popular program will center on the National Geographic presentation named Wolves, Wolf-Dogs and Our Dogs. A firm believer that wolves are normally misunderstood, Gudger will dispel the myths surrounding these fascinating animals by permitting the audience to interact with his wolves.

The Saturday afternoon program will likely highlight unusual animals from the Australian Outback brought to you by the North Georgia Zoo. Home to one of the most well-known programs of its kind, their animals have traveled throughout Georgia and the East Coast and been featured on Dirty Jobs, Animal Planet, Rachel Ray, Jeff Corwin, and more.

There is a $5 entry fee for adults for the Friday evening event and $8 for all day on Saturday. Children are admitted free.

Mountain Wildlife Days is directed by John Edwards and sponsored by the Sapphire Valley Resort, area merchants, and friends of wildlife.

More information is at highlandsouthadventures.com or call the Sapphire Resort Community Center at (828) 743-7663. by Marlene Osteen / photo by Bill Lea

Waterfalls & Wildflowers

The Joy Garden Tour, benefiting The Village Green, explores the exquisite green beds, fields, and terraces that adorn Cashiers.

Joy Garden Tour Chairs Paige Barnes and Vicki Keller selected the theme The Wonders of Waterfalls and Wildflowers. Each of the four gardens has unique features and distinctive elements to delight.

Due to ongoing health concerns, to ensure the safety and well-being of the community, the 2021 tour has been modified to offer private and semi-private inperson tours to patron-benefactors. Information about these VIP experiences can be found at cashiersgreen. givingfuel.com/joy-garden-tour-2021. In addition, a virtual tour will be available to those who are not to participate in-person.

Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by visiting VillageGreenCashiersNC.com/events and clicking on the Joy Garden Tour. Those who buy the virtual tour will receive a unique link to a beautifully-produced video tour of the stunning featured gardens for 2021. This tour is sponsored by Landmark Real Estate Group and through The Laurel magazine.

Along with the tour of beautiful private gardens, the Garden Shops are open to everyone from 10:00 A.M. until 3:00 P.M. Friday, July 16, and Saturday, July 17, at The Village Green Commons on Frank Allen Road. Shoppers can browse the selections from more than 35 vendors. A boutique experience of choice items appeals to garden and floral enthusiasts but the shops also include a discriminating collection of antiques, personalized items, gourmet food, distinctive home furnishings, clothing, jewelry and more.

A number of special events are planned including a book signing with James Farmer on Saturday morning. Farmer is a designer and author who has been featured on The Today Show as well as a contributor to Southern Living magazine. He also owns a vacation home in Cashiers. This book signing event is sponsored by local merchant Rusticks.

The Joy Garden Tour is named in memory of Carolyn Joy Dean who gave generously to help establish The Village Green, the 13-plus acre park in the center of Cashiers. Through the dedicated efforts of volunteers who share her spirit, Joy Garden Tour raises money for conservation and improvements to The Village Green for area residents and visitors enjoy.

For additional information including how to purchase benefactor packages call (828) 743-3434 or email kayebkeller@gmail.com.

by Ann Self, Executive Director of The Village Green

Ican think of no better way to enjoy the euphoria of summer and the return of live music than at an outdoor concert. That’s a promise soon to be fulfilled at The Farm at Old Edwards during Orchard Sessions.

On Thursday, July 22, country artist Kristen Kelly will headline, and glorious listening is sure to ensue.

Growing up in small-town Lorena, Texas, Kelly studied the music of her late grandfather, country musician Sterling and learned about classic rock from her father. Along the way, she fell in love with the Blues. She learned to love poetry and listened to country giants; the Judds, George Strait, and Willie Nelson. Kelly spent her youth singing in church and talent shows and in the high school choir. She pursued a music degree at Waco’s McLennan Community College. She started writing and recording with a friend and released an album entitled Highway is My Home under Modern Day Drifters. In 2010 after her collaborator had moved on, she recorded Peacekeeper under her name.

She spent the years following touring with some of the biggest names in country music – Brad Paisley, Rascal Flatts, Sheryl Crow, and Willie Nelson, and performing at the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium, and Nashville’s Bluebird Café.

She released three new singles in 2020, including Ashes, which was featured on Season 7 Episode 1 of the Netflix series The Ranch. In April this year she celebrated her return to the music scene and country music with her latest album, Something Worth Saying – described by one writer as “the perfect quintessentially country album.

The show begins Thursday at 6:00 PM and finishes at 8:00 PM – perhaps just in time to stargaze at the night sky. The cover charge is $15 for hotel guests and members with early online tickets available. And there is a $25 cover charge for the public, with online ticket sales opening two weeks in advance, if available. Every ticket includes complimentary light bites and a cash bar. The sessions will move indoors to the new Orchard House in the event of rain.

For updates and to book online, visit OldEdwardsHospitality. com/OrchardSessions. Please note that dates are subject to change.

Kristen Kelly

Orchard Sessions Return

Country artist Kristen Kelly brings the sound and passion to the July 22 Orchard Session at The Farm at Old Edwards. For tickets and more information, visit OldEdwardsHospitality.com/OrchardSessions.

Let the Band Play On

The sounds of summer find their full voice with the return of Highlands’ Weekend Music Series – performances Friday at Town Square, and Saturday at KelseyHutchinson Founders Park.

Kurt Thomas

“If music be the food of love, play on.” – William Shakespeare There is much to celebrate this summer, and Highlands Weekend Music Performances, hosted by Highlands Chamber of Commerce’s Visit Highlands, N.C., are literally music to the ears of area residents and visitors alike.

There are upcoming live music options for everyone, from bluegrass and country to gospel to acoustic folk or jazz. And all bands are well known and well followed. For example, the Foxfire Boys band is a versatile, high energy band that grew out of the Foxfire Program in northeast Georgia. The band has been together for over 30 years and has performed at venues such as: Grand Ole Opry, Fire On The Mountain Show (TNN), and much more.

Johnny Webb’s laid-back yet seasoned and professional performances give audiences a truly exceptional musical experience with a down-home flavor and a line-up of country music songs-both old and new. Their versatility and song selections span over 50 years of music, and they are constantly updating their repertoire of songs.

Sycamore Flats offers an immersive acoustic band sound blending traditional country songs with exciting new energy that will have everyone present on their feet dancing and asking for more.

The Wobblers present a heavy emphasis on New Orleans-style rhythms and unique instrumentation, and the band pulls from a wide variety of influences.

In fact, each band has distinction, and all events take place from 6:30 to 8:30 P.M.: July 2 - Foxfire Boys, Town Square July 3 - Blaze the City, Kelsey Hutchinson Park July 4 - Moon Dance, Kelsey Hutchinson Park July 9 - Southern Highlands, Town Square July 10 - Kurt Thomas Band, Kelsey Hutchinson Park July 16 - Johnny Webb Band, Town Square July 17 - Shane Meade & The Sound, Kelsey Hutchinson Park July 23 - Sycamore Flats, Town Square July 24 - Silly Ridge Roundup, Kelsey Hutchinson Park July 30 - Byrds and Crows, Town Square July 31 - The Wobblers, Kelsey Hutchinson Park

by Deena Bouknight

Scan for more info

Summer of Music in Cashiers

In celebration of a season that’s free of quarantine, music returns to the Cashiers Village Green.

Continental Divide

While The Village Green will not have the usual Groovin’ on the Green outdoor concert series this summer, there will be a modified version.

Concerts on the Commons will be a limited edition of outdoor and indoor concerts July-October.

Village Green Executive Director Ann Self has already scheduled some outstanding musicians, including a return to the stage by the Nashville artist Joe Lasher Jr. The concerts will feature favorite groups and perhaps a few new ones as well.

The Village Green staff is delighted, too, that they will be able to hold concerts indoors when the weather turns inclement or cooler and when daylight is shorter in the Fall.

Like many musical and other venues, the Village Green will be selling Commons Pods with reserved concert seating. Village Green leaders are working out the particulars to accommodate as many residents and visitors as they can safely. An announcement regarding information for Commons Pod sales and other concert details can be found at VillageGreenCashiersNC.com/concerts.

Live music will return with a concert by the popular dance band Continental Divide at 6:00 P.M. Sunday, July 4, at the Commons. Continental Divide has been playing venues across the southeast for more than 30 years. From the silky smooth voice of Carolina Beach Music Hall of Fame performer Gene Pharr to the lightness of the rhythm section to the flowing lines of the horn section they put on a performance that everyone will be sure to remember.

A new music event, Cashiers Village Crawl will be from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Friday, July 16, featuring Nitrograss taking the Commons stage and Spalding McIntosh and Friends performing at the Gazebo near the Cashiers Crossroads. The evening will include pop-up boutique shops at the Commons venue along with a wine tasting by the Highlands Wine Shoppe. Food trucks will serve up delicious food to purchase on both sides of The Village Green. Local retailers will be open late and businesses will have special promotions that evening.

Sip, savor, shop, and stroll the newly-refurbished Cashiers Greenway Ramble for a delightful midsummer night with friends and family.

To learn more about the Concerts On the Commons or the Village Crawl, visit VillageGreenCashiersNC.com/Events.

by Mary Jane McCall

Imagine the amazement of the early colonial and expeditionary Europeans when, arriving in the New Land, they encountered what to them were gigantic forest birds. Everything was bigger in America but two large birds were startlingly large: the Wild Turkey and Bald Eagle.

Europe, their homeland, had a lovely collection of songbirds – small, vocal, colorful – and domesticated geese and swan, but nothing like these two giants. These were new birds and they existed only in North America.

The plentiful Bald Eagle had a looming presence in early American forests and in our hearts and minds today. The image of the Bald Eagle on our flags, coins, and seals reveals our continuing regard for these birds.

Before I get into that, however, I have to deal with the story concerning Ben Franklin.

Some say that Ben Franklin opposed naming the Bald Eagle the National Bird and favored the Wild Turkey as a more noble bird. (Eagles are predators but are also opportunistic scavengers who will “steal” the kill of other raptors.)

One imagines a floor fight in the Continental Congress with Franklin, later to become our first Postmaster General, holding court in boasts and bellows. None of this happened.

At the time of the Congressional action naming the Eagle the National Bird in 1782, Franklin was in Paris as the celebrated U.S. Ambassador to France, which helped America gain independence from Britain. He was not even a member of Congress.

There is, however, a letter he wrote to his daughter back home in 1784. In this letter Franklin writes the following:

For my own part, I wish the Bald Eagle had not been chosen the representative of our country. He is a bird of bad moral character. He does not get his living honestly…besides he is a rank coward. The little Kingbird not bigger than a sparrow attacks him bodily and drives him

Our National Symbol

Benjamin Franklin was correct about so many things, but the Wild Turkey?

out of the district.

Franklin did not “oppose” the naming of the Bald Eagle the National Bird but he did disagree with the Congressional decision doing that.

So, in the summer of 1782 the Continental Congress voted that the Great Seal of the United States would carry the image of a Bald Eagle holding 13 arrows in the talons of one claw and an olive branch in the other. The arrows were a symbol of the strength of 13 states and the olive branch offers peace. Peace through strength. That sounds American.

Our National Seal was designed to symbolize National character. From the Bald Eagle we find courage, strength and wisdom. I leave it to you to interpret the remaining symbols on the seal. Union is the dominant theme.

Happy July 4!. United we stand!

by William McReynolds

Beer, Bark & Barbeque

Bark, Beer & Barbeque, set for August 17 at The Farm at Old Edwards, is a howling good time and the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society’s main fundraiser. For tickets or more information, call (828) 743-5769.

The 10th annual signature fundraising event in Highlands for the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society returns to The Farm at Old Edwards on Tuesday, August 17. The evening features a live and silent auction combined with live music, beer, wine and spirits, and a scrumptious southern barbeque dinner from Cashiers Farmers Market.

Bark, Beer & Barbeque will be limited to just 150 guests this year. Tickets are $220 per person and a portion of the ticket purchase is a generous, tax-deductible contribution to support our lifesaving mission of rescue, spay/neuter and adoption, and community outreach programs such as humane education, summer camps, rabies vaccination clinics, pet therapy and a free food pet pantry.

A highlight of this preeminent fundraiser for the CashiersHighlands Humane Society will be the presentation of the coveted awards for CHHS Humane Heroes of the Year. Three awards will be bestowed to recipients who have significantly contributed their time, heart and resources to help further the mission of CHHS on behalf of the abandoned and neglected animals in our community.

Bark, Beer & Barbeque is the “must-attend” party for party animals on the Plateau and has always sold out quickly, so reserve your seats today! To charge your tickets by phone, please call (828) 743-5769.

Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit animal welfare organization located at 200 Gable Drive in Sapphire, one-and-ahalf miles east of the Cashiers Ingles in between Cedar Creek Club and Lonesome Valley on Highway 64. Visit us online at chhumanesociety. org. Tax-deductible donations to support our lifesaving work can be mailed to: CHHS, P.O. Box 638, Cashiers, NC 28717.

by David Stroud, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society

Back on Track

The Plateau’s twin libraries are boosting their services and programs to meet the needs and desires for their quarantine-liberated patrons.

There is good news, for a change. Local libraries are not only back on track regarding many in-person opportunities, but the prolonged pandemic actually resulted in expanded digital services.

Said Carlyn Morenus, branch librarian for Hudson Library in Highlands, “We’ve long had free Wi-Fi, but now it’s expanded so you can use our Wi-Fi way out in library parking lots as well as in or near our buildings.”

Local libraries are also adding remote printing options, so patrons can print from a phone or laptop, “and even better, you can send a print job from anywhere, and then come to the library to retrieve it,” noted Morenus, adding that another plus is expanded hotspots. “We’ve offered hotspots for students during this strange past school year, and now we have hotspots available for any patron to check out. Hotspots are a great way to try out the technology and see if it works for you before signing a contract with anyone.”

Serenity Richards, branch librarian at Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library, is thrilled that in-person programming has ensued. “As we ease our way out of Covid restrictions and back to ‘normal’ life, we are back to offering:

- author talks (Hudson and Cashiers) - movies at the library (Hudson) - in-person children’s programs: Cashiers has Storytimes and twice-weekly Stay-and-Make craft programs, plus a Harry Potter day “And, the list is expanding almost daily,” said Richards. “Plus, we offer one-on-one tech help. Cashiers basically has a full, normal looking summer at this point. In July our special events include the annual book store clearance, and the American Eagle Foundation is bringing … and now we have in some of their raptors. We’ll be starting hotspots available for any movies again in August. Summer Learning patron to check out. Program for kids and adults wraps up at the end of July.” Lessening Covid-19 cases and deaths, as well as increased vaccinations and acquired immunity cases, means “more people are willing to come in for up-close help again,” said Morenus, “and then they can use all our new digital expansion projects.” All good news for summer visitors to local libraries! by Deena Bouknight

Bestsellers Discussed

Best-selling authors Karen White and Susan Meissner will make appearances in both Cashiers and Highlands – July 9 and 10; and July 30 and 31, respectively. You need to make reservations – (828) 743-0215 for Cashiers; and (828) 526-3031.

Susan Meissner

The Highlands-Cashiers area is privileged to be a draw for New York Times best-selling authors. Scheduled to visit the Plateau throughout the summer into fall are authors who not only present their latest works and sign books, but who also explain their distinct approaches to the writing process.

Karen White, whose latest release is The Last Night in London, will be at The Village Green Commons Hall on Frank Allen Road next to the Cashiers Post Office at 3:00 P.M. Friday, July 9. This event is by reservation as seating is limited – call Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library at (828) 743-0215.

Ms. White will be at the Hudson Library in Highlands, the following day, July 10. (See her profile in the June Laurel.) You’ll need to make reservations for this, also – (828) 526-3031.

Author Susan Meissner will discuss The Nature of Fragile Things, at the Village Green Commons Hall at 3:00 P.M., Friday, July 30. Once again, reservations may be made by calling the Cashiers Library – (828) 743-0215.

She’ll follow with an appearance at Hudson Library the next day. Be sure to call Hudson Library for reservations – (828) 526-3031

In June, The Laurel had a chance to speak to Meissner and learn a little about her life and writing career. Usually an author’s premise for a book begins with a question, consideration, or curiosity. Meissner pondered: “When disaster happens, what do we do? How are we transformed when we are compelled to go through cataclysmic change? How is our character refined or redefined by it? These musings got me started on what would become (The Nature of Fragile Things) with the 1906 San Francisco earthquake as a backdrop. The more I thought about it, the more I also wanted to write a story that would feature strong women at a time when they had little autonomy or agency. I wanted to suppose they would nevertheless rally together, as women have always done, to protect those they love, and that even though tough circumstances would try their mettle, they would not be undone by them.”

Every author also has a specific writing process. Meissner will talk about hers at the library events, but she shared a glimpse of how she gets started, “Since settling into the historical fiction lane in 2008, I’ve begun each new book with a historical event in mind first, and then decided what kind of story would fit that impactful backdrop. I do the research first, and oftentimes it’s when I dive into the archives that I discover not only what kind of characters would dovetail nicely with that setting, but also what those characters want and what stands in their way – that’s always the heart and soul of a novel.”

Visiting North Carolina is near and dear to Meissner’s heart. Although she resides in California, her son, daughter-in-law, and two granddaughters live in Jacksonville, North Carolina, where her son is stationed at Camp Lejeune. “I have fallen in love with the beauty of North Carolina in our visits to see them. There’s a pastoral splendor here that is both soothing and inspiring.”

Each of these events are free to the public.

Already this summer, The Bascom has been alive with the sounds of excitement and eager footsteps of art lovers and car lovers alike. They’ve come to see the awe-inspiring cars and art of the Bunzl Gallery exhibit, FreeWheeling: The Allure of the Automobile in Contemporary Art, in the Bunzl Gallery.

A question we hear frequently is “Where are the cars!?”

We also note that guests are quite interested to know how we managed to move these amazing automobiles into a gallery space.

The short answer is: “Very carefully!”

Not only were the special vehicles chosen to be presented in the exhibition selected for their unique heritage, and importance in the evolution of the automobile, but they were also measured to ensure they would fit through The Bascom’s 72-inch doorways. The exterior doors, and interior gallery doors were removed to gain the proper clearance.

At the exhibition’s opening, three vehicles were brought in, including Clark Gable’s 1954 Jaguar XK120 OTS, an original 1965 Shelby Cobra 427, and a fuel injected 1963 Corvette split window coupe!

These fantastic rolling works of art were just the beginning! The vehicles of the exhibition will be swapped out a total of three times, so the viewer has many reasons to revisit the exhibition. On June 15, 2021 three amazing new vehicles arrived including a 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 Alloy, a 1965 Jaguar Series 1, and a fuel injected 1966 Porsche 906-158. On July 20, the last round of automobiles will be rolled into the Bunzl gallery to close the show. In the category of last, but certainly not least, a beautiful 1957 Mercedes 300SL roadster, and a unique Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint Speciale will grace the FreeWheeling exhibit.

Few people leave the exhibit without being more interested

It’s Just How We Roll

A dynamic new exhibit rolls into The Bascom, celebrating the fusion of art and engineering at the heart of the automotive world.

in the names and makes of these automobiles, even if it was not a previous passion. The artworks also leave memorable impressions – from the narrative work of Brian Tull, who invites you to imagine the story of a female protagonist waiting in the car at a gas station, to the watercolors of Allan Gorman that are executed with incredible photo-realistic precision.

Knight Martorell has curated a dynamic and mesmerizing show; we are grateful to the artists represented in the exhibition, and to the car owners that have generously shared their collections with us. And a big thank you to the Highlands Motoring Festival for their invaluable assistance in procuring the artists and automobiles for FreeWheeling: The Allure of the Automobile in Contemporary Art.

by Billy Love Creative Director, The Bascom photos by Peter Ray

The history of Highlands’ Twilight Race is neither as old nor the route as long as is the history of running.

That history stretches back 2500 years to a Greek named Pheidippides, who, as legend has it, ran 25 miles from Marathon to Athens and then promptly dropped from exhaustion and died.

Far more fun for all participants will be the Rotary Club of Highlands Twilight 5k and 10k race at 6:00 P.M. on August 15. From its beginnings in 2013, it has combined world-class competition, amateur participation, and the idyllic scenery of the Highlands Plateau.

The 5k is an accessible and fun distance to race and an ideal choice for anyone who has just started running; or more accomplished runners looking to improve their time. The mostly flat course, which winds around Harris Lake, through Highlands Park, is also welcoming to walkers and strollers.

Perhaps the most fun you can have over 6.2 miles is the more demanding 10k race (for 15 and older only). The ideal blend of distance and speed, the route climbs Bear Pen Mountain. From whence comes the query, “Will you eat the bear or will it eat you?”

The race starts and finishes at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park – the perfect gathering place to watch the awards presentation and a rock and roll concert by Tea 4 that follows the race end. T-shirts are guaranteed to all those who register by July 15. In addition, there are light-up necklaces for the kids and a free beer provided by Ugly Dog Pub for those of the legal drinking age.

What started as a race with 130 runners and a goal to raise $8500 has grown into an event raising more than $25,000 for technology for Highlands School.

The race attracts everyone from young to old, and fit to not so. Kids under 5 may run the 5K for free. Kids 5 to 9 may participate in the 5K for $10. Day of race price will be $40 for 5K and $50 for 10K. Check out the details and sign up at runsignup.com. More race details are at highlandstwilightrun.com.

Highlands Twilight Race

The Twilight 5K and 10K Race beckons serious and not-so-serious runners for a bit of fresh air fun and competition, on August 15. Check out the details and sign up at runsignup.com. More race details are at highlandstwilightrun.com.

by Marlene Osteen

porchfest ad

Summer Colors Art Show

The Summer Colors Fine Art Show, set for Saturday and Sunday, July 24 and 25, is a beautiful reflection and complement to life in the Southern Appalachians.

Have you ever wondered if there’s something about our pure mountain air and the breathtaking scenery that surrounds us that brings out the inner artist in all of us?

Certainly, that’s true for the members of the Art League of Highlands-Cashiers, many of whom are artists who produce lovely works in an assortment of mediums, others of whom are simply art lovers.

Your chance to see the astounding array of talent in our area, all congregated for one colorful show is the ALHC’s Summer Colors Fine Art Show on Saturday and Sunday, July 24 and 25, from 10:00 A.M. until 5:00 P.M. at the Sapphire Community Center. The Community Center is located at 207 Sapphire Valley Road just off Highway 64 in Sapphire.

There is plenty of parking, admission is free, and it’s indoors so weather won’t be a factor.

The show will feature over 20 booths of original fine art from members of the ALHC and the artists will be on hand to meet and greet. It’s a great opportunity to see and purchase original art, but it’s also a unique opportunity to speak with the artist and get the story on each piece. What was the inspiration? How did it come to fruition? How long did it take to create? Knowing the personal history of your art will make it even more prized.

Expect to see oil, watercolor, acrylic and pastel paintings, as well as photographs, ceramics, sculptures and one of a kind jewelry. Items will be available in a variety of price ranges so there’s something for everyone.

Don’t miss this opportunity to see the works of so many local talents under one roof.

by Mary Jane McCall

Highlands Porchfest

For the ambitious Highlands Porchfest, set for Sunday, September 19, the entire downtown will serve as the musical venue. For more information, or to help (this’ll require a lot of hands), visit highlandsporchfest.com.

Tim Huffman

Buoyed by the success of Bear Shadow, the music festival staged upon a Highlands meadow in April, the Center for Life Enrichment (with support from Visit Highlands NC/The Highlands Chamber of Commerce) is putting together Highlands Porchfest 2021, a one-day family-friendly musical event that’ll see musical acts performing across the town. Because of wide community support, these performances are free.

With 16 acts already committed, Highlands Porchfest will be held from 1:00 to 6:00 P.M. Sunday, September 19. Bands, singers, and instrumentalists are participating at no charge to showcase their talents and engage the community (though of course tipping is highly encouraged).

Among the headliners are Wooten Hill Music. Two venturesome female singer-songwriters, Kim Hill and Paulette Wooten, are making the kind of music they want to sing, play and listen to at night while hosting friends at the retreat property they manage in the mountains of North Carolina. Not bound to a genre, they are a ‘living jukebox’ singing both covers and originals. Separately, they have both enjoyed success in their music careers - Kim as a Grammy nominated veteran award-winning recording artist and Paulette as an award winning film composer, musician, electronic artist and songwriter.

Tim Huffman is a Grammy-nominated recording artist that has recorded or performed with Jimmy Buffett, Zac Brown, Brooks & Dunn and members of Kansas, The Allman Brothers, Hall & Oates, Crosby Stills & Nash, and many other artists. As an entrepreneur, he has started, grown and sold several companies from tech start-ups to fast food operations. For the past 20 years, Tim has been a global leader in the data center industry and currently serves as Executive Vice President of Data Center Solutions with CBRE.

“Because Highlands Porchfest will be primarily held downtown, at The PAC and also The Bascom, attendees will be able to walk or bike as they move from location to location, frequenting businesses as they enjoy live music,” says Center for Life Enrichment Board Member Karen Hunt, who brought the idea for Highlands Porchfest to the board.

“Beyond monetary donations, CLE is looking for additional musicians and steadfast music loving volunteers to assist us the day of the event. Please email us at info@highlandsporchfest.com or call the CLE office at (828) 526-8811, if you can help,” says Lee Garrett, President of Center For Life Enrichment.

by Luke Osteen

Faraway Soirée

The Highlands Biological Foundation celebrates the beauty and mystery that’s the Plateau’s natural heritage with an exclusive Soirée at Faraway, 6:00 P.M. Monday, August 2. For more information about this exquisite fundraising event and to purchase a ticket, call (828) 526-2221.

Dazzling social affairs are a long-standing tradition for summers spent in Highlands, and the Highlands Biological Foundation’s summer soirée is no exception.

Join HBF for our biggest annual fundraiser on Monday, August 2, from 6:00 P.M. until dark as they raise money in support of their organization’s mission of stimulating and promoting biological research and education in the Southern Appalachians.

This year, the festivities will be held at “Faraway,” the beautiful, historic home of Julia and Bill Grumbles. Located at the top of Satulah Mountain among a lush, verdant, forest, “Faraway” boasts spectacular views and amazing gardens. Built in 1898, the original structure was a Highlands landmark and was home to Dr. Mary Lapham, an internationally-recognized local physician who specialized in treating tuberculosis in the early 1900s.

Much merrymaking has been held at this Satulah estate over the past 120 years, and HBF intends to keep the tradition alive next month with their Faraway Soirée!

Hosting this event is just another one of Julia Grumbles’ incredible contributions to Highlands. Last month, Grumbles concluded 10-years of service as HBF’s president, and her “Faraway” home is an ideal location to inspire our community to support the work of the Foundation. The event’s proceeds will benefit HBF as they work to educate our community about the unique biodiversity of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.

For more information about HBF’s Faraway Soirée fundraising event and to purchase a ticket, please call the HBF office at (828) 526-2221. Parking is limited for this event, so a shuttle service will be provided. Stay tuned for more details.

It’s a smile, it’s a kiss, it’s a sip of wine… it’s summertime!

— Kenny Chesney

View the complete Highlands Cashiers Plateau Calendar • Wish and Shoes 1Trunk Show, July 1-5, (828) 944-9474. • Ali & Bird Jewelry Trunk Show, July 1-12, Acorns (828) 787-1877) • Highlands Wine Shoppe Weekly Wine Tasting with Annelize, 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. (828) 526-4080, highlandswineshoppe@gmail.com. • Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 P.M., The High Dive.

• Yankee Doodle Dandy 4Day, Sapphire Valley. • Daylong July 4th Events throughout Highlands, (828) 526-2112. .• Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338. • July 4th Concert Celebration Cashiers Community Chorus Patriotic Concert, (828) 743-3434. • Continental Divide Concert, 6:00 P.M., Village Green Commons, (828) 743-3434. • Hiighlands Fireworks Finale, 9:00 P.M. • HCCMF Concert, 5:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060. .• Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338. • HCCMF Festival Feasts, 7:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060.

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.• Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338. 6 • Green Market 72:00 to 5:00 P.M., The Village Green Commons, (828) 743-3434. • Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 P.M. St. Jude’s Catholic Church, (828) 331-7031, • Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338. • Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 P.M., The Ugly Dog Pub. • Mountain Heritage Lecture Series, 10:00 A.M, Zachary Tolbert House, Cashiers, (828) 743-7710. . • Highlands Food Pantry Open, 3:15 to 5:30 P.M., below Highlands Methodist Church, (828) 421-1789. • Highlands Wine Shoppe Wine Tasting, 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. (828) 526-4080.. .• Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338. • Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 P.M., The High Dive.

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• Lafayette 148 Trunk Show, Narcissus, (828) 743-7887. • HCCMF Concert, 5:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060. • Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338.

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• Highlands Food Pantry Open, 3:15 to 5:30 P.M., 12 behind and below The Highlands United Methodist Church, (828) 421-1789. • HCCMF Concert, 5:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060. • Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338. • Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338.13

• Green Market 2:00 to 5:00 P.M., The Village Green Commons, (828) 743-3434. • Cashiers Quilters meet 12:30 P.M. at St. Jude’s Catholic Church, (828) 331-7031, cashiersquilters.com. • Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338. • Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 P.M., The Ugly Dog Pub.

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• Highlands Food Pantry Open, 3:15 to 5:30 P.M., below Highlands Methodist Church, (828) 421-1789. • Highlands Wine Shoppe Wine Tasting, 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. (828) 526-4080. .• Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338. • HCCMF Festival Feasts, 6:30 P.M., (828) 562-9060. • Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 P.M., The High Dive.

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• Friday Night Live concert, Highlands Town Square, 6:00 P.M., (828) 526-2112. 2 • Highlands Marketplace, 38:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. • HCCMF Concert, 5:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060. • Saturdays on Pine, 6:00 P.M., Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. • Entertainment 6:00 to 9:00 P.M., Town and Country General Store, (828) 547-1300. tandcgeneralstore.com. • 24th Annual Friends of Lake Glenville Fireworks Over the Lake, 9:30 P.M.

• Friday Night Live 9concert, Highlands Town Square, 6:00 P.M., (828) 526-2112. • Lafayette 148 Trunk Show, Narcissus, (828) 743-7887. • Author Events, 3:00 P.M., Commons Hall, (828) 743-0215. • Highlands Marketplace, Kelsey-Hutchinson Park. • Theresa Forman Art Trunk Show, Acorns (828) 787-1877. • Lafayette 148 Trunk Show, Narcissus, (828) 743-7887, •Book Bites, 12:30 P.M., Hudson Library, (828) 526-3031. • Saturdays on Pine, 6:00 P.M., Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. • Entertainment 6:00-9:00 P.M., Town and Country General Store. • HCCMF Concert, 5:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060.

• Joy Garden Tour, Village Green Shops, 16 Village Green, (828) 743-3434. • Mountain Wildlife Days, Sapphire Resort Community Center, (828) 743-7663. • HCCMF Concert, 6:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060. • Friday Night Live concert, Highlands Town Square, 6:00 P.M., (828) 526-2112. • Village Crawl, 6:00 P.M., Village Green Commons and Gazebo, (828) 743-3434. • Highlands Marketplace, 8:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. 17 Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. • Joy Garden Tour, Village Green, (828) 743-3434. • Mountain Wildlife Days, Sapphire Resort Community Center, (828) 743-7663. • Carol Misner Art Trunk Show, Acorns (828) 787-1877) • Saturdays on Pine, 6:00 P.M., Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. • Entertainment 6:00 to 9:00 P.M., Town and Country General Store.

.• Live Music, On the Verandah, 18 (828) 526-2338. • HCCMF Concert, 5:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060. • Highlands Food Pantry Open, 3:15 to 5:30 P.M., 19 behind and below The Highlands United Methodist Church, (828) 421-1789. • HCCMF Concert, 5:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060. .• Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338.

• Summer Colors Art Show, 10:00 A.M. to 25 5:00 P.M. Sapphire Community Center. • Suzy Landa Jewelry Trunk Show, Peak Experience, (828) 526-0229. • Monica Rich Kosann Jewelry Trunk Show, Acorns, (828) 787-1877. • HCCMF Concert, 5:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060. .• Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338. • HCCMF Festival Feasts, 7:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060. • Art League of Cashiers-Highlands’ 26 meeting, 5:00 P.M., The Bascom, artleaguehighlands-cashiers.com. • HCCMF Concert, 5:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060. .• Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338. .• Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338.

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• Green Market 2:00 to 5:00 P.M.. The Village Green Commons, (828) 743-3434. • Cashiers Quilters meet 12:30 P.M. at St. Jude’s Catholic Church, (828) 331-7031, cashiersquilters.com. .• Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338. • Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 P.M., The Ugly Dog Pub.

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• Highlands Food Pantry Open, 9:00 A.M. to Noon, behind and below The Highlands United Methodist Church, (828) 421-1789. • Village Nature Series, 5:00 P.M., (828) 743-3434. .• Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338. • HCCMF Festival Salon, 6:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060.

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• Cashiers Quilters meet 12:30 P.M. at St. Jude’s Catholic Church, (828) 331-7031, cashiersquilters.com. • Green Market 2:00 to 5:00 P.M. The Village Green Commons, (828) 743-3434. .• Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338. • Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 P.M., The Ugly Dog Pub.

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• Highlands Food Pantry Open, 3:15 to 5:30 P.M., below Highlands Methodist Church, (828) 421-1789. • Highlands Wine Shoppe Wine Tasting, 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. (828) 526-4080. • HCCMF Festival Salon, 6:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060. • Orchard Session at The Farm at Old Edwards. .• Live Music, On the Verandah, (828) 526-2338. • Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 P.M., The High Dive.

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• Suzy Landa Jewelry Trunk Show, Peak Experience, (828) 526-0229 • Monica Rich Kosann Jewelry Trunk Show, Acorns, (828) 787-1877. • HCCMF Concert, 6:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060. • Friday Night Live concert, Highlands Town Square, 6:00 P.M., (828) 526-2112. • Concert on the Commons at Village Green, 6:00 P.M., (828) 743-3434. 23 • Highlands Marketplace, Kelsey-Hutchinson Park. 24 • Suzy Landa Jewelry Trunk Show, Peak Experience, (828) 526-0229. • Monica Rich Kosann Jewelry, Acorns, (828) 787-1877. • HCCMF Concert, 5:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060. • Saturdays on Pine, 6:00 P.M., Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. • Entertainment 6:00 to 9:00 P.M., Town and Country General Store. • Summer Colors Art Show, 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Sapphire Community Center.

• Highlands Wine • Friday Night Live Shoppe Weekly concert, Highlands Wine Tasting with Annelize, Town Square, 6:00 P.M., 4:00 to 7:00 P.M., (828) 526-4080, (828) 526-2112. highlandswineshoppe@gmail.com. • Author Events, 3:00 P.M., .• Live Music, On the Commons Hall, (828) 743-0215. Verandah, (828) 526-2338. • HCCMF Concert, 6:00 P.M., • Thursday Night Trivia, (828) 562-9060. 7:30 P.M., The High Dive. 29 30 • Highlands Marketplace, 8:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. 31 Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. • Phillip Curcuru Art Trunk Show, Acorns, (828) 787-1877. • Betsy Paul Art Raffle, CashiersGlenville Fire Dept., (828) 743-0880. • HCCMF Concert, 5:00 P.M., (828) 562-9060. • Saturdays on Pine, 6:00 P.M., Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. • Entertainment 6:00 to 9:00 P.M., Town and Country General Store. • HCCMF Festival Feasts, 7:15 P.M., (828) 562-9060.s