The Laurel Magazine - March 2019 by The Laurel Magazine of Highlands NC and Cashiers NC

HIGHLANDS AND CASHIERS

MARCH 2019

THELAURELMAGAZINE.COM

LAUREL

YOUR GUIDE TO

2 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 3

4 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 5

INSIDE THE LAUREL MARCH 2019 THINGS TO DO

SHOPPING

HOMES & LIFESTYLES

The Bascom

Shopping on Cashiers 64E

Expansive Mountain Retreat

Hudson Library

Plateau Picks

Financial Focus

Heritage Apple Day

Packing Words

Albert Carlton Community Library

The Village Green

Three River Fly Fishing Tournament

Author David Schulman

Highlands Motoring Festival

Greystone Getaways

Winter Photo Contest

25 Calendar

THE ARTS 32

Cover Artist: Susan Renfro

Highlands Playhouse

Painting the Connection

Highlands Cashiers Players

Highlands Performing Arts Center

Great Art on Screen

Highlands-Cashiers Art League

DINING 44

Highlands Deli

Whispering Angel Dinner

Mama’s Recipes

Dining Guide

6 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com

VENTURE OUT 58

Trust Old Whiteside

Fly Fishing on the Plateau

The Accidental Gardener

Highlands Plateau Audubon Society

Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust

Highlands Biological Station

C-H Humane Society

Carpe Diem Farms

HISTORY 66

Highlands History

Cashiers History

Heritage Arts: Southern Quilts

HEALTH 72

Mission Health

Estrogen: Friend or Foe

Let Go and Grow

Spicy Carrot Smoothie

GIVING BACK

BIZ SPOTLIGHT 94

Cashiers Chamber of Commerce

Highlands Chamber of Commerce

The Laurel Welcomes Sarah

Social Media Marketing

MountainSpring Spas and Pools

Highlands Food and Wine Festival

25 Calendar | 26 Highlands Map | 28 Cashiers Map 52 Dining Guide | 86 Service Directory | 109 Advertiser’s Index

MAKING IT HAPPEN

JANET CUMMINGS Managing Partner

Publisher’s

Note March may come in like a lion, but setting those clocks ahead can be a bear. (And don’t we have enough of those already?) Nevertheless, a little extra daylight and the arrival of Spring make this wild-weathered month a bit more tolerable. Joyful buds and chirping birds beckon us to step outside, inhale deep and take in the coming season. Here at the Laurel, we have so many new things to share with you this year as well. So let’s put that extra hour to good use - inhale deep, step outside and let’s get started!

Janet and Marjorie Volume Seventeen • Issue Two thelaurelmagazine.com • 828-526-0173 info@thelaurelmagazine.com P.O. Box 565 • Highlands, NC 28741

MARJORIE CHRISTIANSEN Managing Partner

janet@thelaurelmagazine.com

marjorie@thelaurelmagazine.com

MICHELLE MUNGER Art Director

SARAH FIELDING Account Manager

mungerclan5@aol.com

sarah@thelaurelmagazine.com

LUKE OSTEEN Editor / Writer

DONNA RHODES Writer

dumbdogs@earthlink.net

dmrhodes847@gmail.com

MARY JANE MCCALL Writer

A.J. STEWART Writer

mjmccall777@gmail.com

ashleystewartauthor@gmail.com

EMILY CROWELL Writer

THOMAS CUMMINGS Distribution Manager jothcu@yahoo.com

Contributing Writers: Jane Gibson Nardy, Mary Adair Trumbly, Sue Blair, Dr. Anastasia Halldin, David Stroud, Jeannie Chambers, William McReynolds, Sue Aery, Ann Self, Zach Claxton, Charlotte Muir, Kat Ford, Mary Abranyi, Ashby Underwood, and Chris Wilkes Contributing Photographers: Susan Renfro, Greg Clarkson, Charles Johnson, Peter Ray and Terry Barnes

Copyright © 2019 by The Mountain Laurel, LLC. All rights reserved. Laurel Magazine is published eleven times per year. Reproduction without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publishers and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication subject to Laurel Magazine’s right to edit. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, photographs and drawings. Every effort has been made to assure that all information presented in this issue is accurate, and neither Laurel Magazine nor any of its staff is responsible for advertising errors, omissions, or information that has been misrepresented in or to the magazine. Any substantial errors that are the fault of the magazine will be subject to a reduction or reimbursement of the amounts paid by the advertiser, but in no case will any claim arising from such error exceed the amount paid for the advertisement by the advertiser.

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 7

8 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 9

10 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 11

THINGS TO DO Photo by Dylan Lytle

TWO NEW ARTISTS-IN-RESIDENCE BY KAT FORD | THE BASCOM

A pair of artists brings a fresh perspective to The Bascom.

he Bascom: A Center For The Visual Arts offers opportunities for disciplined artists and educators to take on significant responsibilities, furthering creative professionals. In February, The Bascom welcomed two such artists – Ceramic Artist in Residence Emily Wernig, and Photography Artist in Residence Dylan Lytle. The Ceramic Artist Residency has been a part of The Bascom since 2010, with Highlands Mayor Patrick Taylor being the first Ceramic Resident Artist. This year’s ceramics resident, Emily Wernig, will follow in the footsteps of those before her, enriching her college experience through an additional learning component. A recent graduate from the University of New Hampshire, she is seeking to learn more about the technical aspects of running a working studio. “At UNH, I started out with a drawing concentration but couldn’t stay away from the ceramics classes,” she says. “So, I decided to pursue both. Eventually, I found an active dialogue between my drawings and my ceramics.” The Bascom’s Photography Artist in Residence, Dylan Lytle, is a landscape photog-

12 | March 2019 | Things to Do

locations. Entering its fourth year, this residency seeks out emerging photographers focused on improving their photography and instructional practice. “I was born and continue to live in the small town of Old Fort, North Carolina,” Dylan says. “Being essentially in the middle of the Blue Ridge Mountains, finding beautiful landscapes to shoot has never been much of an issue for me, yet I continue to try and better my art and creative outlet each and every day here.” Dylan will be instructing classes through April, and will be available for private sessions or Art by Appointments. Emily will be instructing classes and will be available for Art by Appointments through December. The Bascom is currently seeking a seasonal summer Education Fellow. Education Fellows play a key role in providing art experiences for youth and adults, including youth workshops, one-on-one lessons, and supplemental art programs with our Community Outreach Partner Groups. For more information, visit thebascom.org or call (828) 526-4949.

Art by Emily Wernig

rapher based in Western North Carolina who explores and photographs the local scene as well as many other adventurous

THINGS TO DO

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 13

THINGS TO DO

THE MAGICAL WORLD OF BOOKS BY EMILY CROWELL

Regardless of the season, Hudson Library remains a cozy rendezvous spot for the community.

oday is a good day to visit Hudson Library, don’t you think? It’s just a short walk from anywhere in town, and the rocking chairs out front are inviting even when the library’s not open. One of my favorite things to do is, starting from the street, follow the sidewalk around the library sign and up under the trellis – I feel like I’m entering a secret garden, especially in early spring when the natural world is starting to wake up again. And where the sidewalk ends: the magical world of books and book-lovers! Share the magic of books (and secret gardens) with the little ones in your life by bringing them to the Hudson’s public storytime on Thursdays at 10:40 A.M. A lively mix of books, storytelling, and music will charm little kids and big kids alike. Stay afterwards to hang out and tell your own stories in the Childrens’ Room, or peruse the diverse collection of kids’ DVDs, CDs, and audiobooks. School-aged kids will find fun and learn-

14 | March 2019 | Things to Do

ing at Kids Zone on Thursdays at 3:30 P.M. The Hudson and the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust are now partnering on a Kids in Nature program on the second Thursday. Kids Zone with The Bascom continues on the first Thursday of each month, LEGO Club is held on the fourth Thursday, and STEM programs are held on the third and fifth Thursdays.

Grown-up kids shouldn’t feel left out of the fun. Come grab a free bag of popcorn and watch a recently-released movie at 2:00 P.M. on the third Wednesday of the month or check out a few DVDs from the Hudson’s evergrowing collection to take home with you. Be an active community member and attend Community Coffee with Mayor Pat Taylor on the last Friday of the month at 11:00 A.M. – grab some free coffee and refreshments while you’re there. Or just hang out by the fireplace in the reading room all afternoon. Even though we’re heading toward spring, we’re sure to have some chilly days yet that will be perfect for spending in the warm, cozy library. Hudson Library is located at 554 Main Street in Highlands and can be reached via telephone at (828) 526-3031. The Hudson is open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 A.M. – 5:30 P.M., and Saturdays (even warm, sunny ones) from 10:00 A.M.– 4:00 P.M.

THINGS TO DO

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 15

THINGS TO DO

HERITAGE APPLE DAY BY MARY JANE MCCALL

The humble apple tree has been a ubiquitous and vital presence through the settling and development of the Cashiers Valley. On March 9, it gets its moment in the spotlight.

he Cashiers Historical Society is sponsoring Heritage Apple Day on Saturday, March 9, from 11:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. at the Cashiers Community Center across from the Cashiers Fire Department. Join them in celebrating our area’s horticulture history by learning to identify and preserve ancient apple varieties that have flourished in our mountains for centuries. Admission to this event is free. The rich mountain soil of Cashiers and surrounding communities has long produced abundant apple crops, but through the years many of the aging trees are dying out or have ceased to produce fruit. This is a great opportunity to learn the process of grafting apple tree scions onto new stalks in order to preserve these trees and introduce new growth and varieties. There will also be fun activities for kids, including a coloring station where kids can color pictures of apples and a children’s table with crafts. Everyone will enjoy the apple walk (like a cake walk), the apple relay, and live music. Tasty apples, apple treats, and hot cider will also be provided for everyone’s enjoyment. The Cashiers Historical Society’s mission is to preserve the heritage of Cashiers Val-

16 | March 2019 | Things to Do

ley through education, stewardship, and advocacy. Join them in heralding the beginning of the spring season by celebrating the humble and tasty apple, while learning to preserve this piece of our culture and history. For further information contact the Cashiers Historical Society at (828) 743-7710 or visit cashiershistoricalsociety.org.

THINGS TO DO

CASHIERS LIBRARY OFFERS SO MUCH TO DO BY LUKE OSTEEN

Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library offers the cure for late winter doldrums with a series of mental gymnastics for limber young minds.

“

There’s nothing to do!” If you’re a parent or grandparent, you’ve heard this lament from the kids in your life, especially as winter drags on. That’s why Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library is the perfect tonic for those days and weeks when children have reached their limits and grown-ups’ tolerance has stretched to the breaking point. This month and every month, the library is offering an entire slate of activities to keep youngsters entertained, stimulated, and eager to learn. “In addition to our Storytime for preschoolers every Wednesday at 10 A.M., we have activities for children in grades from kindergarten through middle school every Tuesday at 3:45 P.M.,” says Librarian Serenity Richards. On the first Tuesday of every month, elementary-age children are invited to participate in Imagination Station, a program of storytelling and arts and crafts designed to stimulate youngsters’ creative

talents. Topics vary, but each is selected to resonate with young minds growing in the 21st Century. On the second Tuesday of each month, children of all ages are invited to participate in Lego Club. Though Lego Club was established for youngsters, more than a couple of parents and grandparents have joined in the fun. Buckets of Lego are available for assembly, with participants building whatever sparks their imagination. STEAM Club meets on the third Tuesday of each month. This celebration of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics is designed for elementary and middle school students. They’ll be able to assemble and program robots to perform a variety of fun and challenging tasks. In addition, they’ll learn concepts that are critical to success in the modern world. It’s all done in a spirit of fun and excitement, with handson coaching and encouragement. The STEAM program reflects support from

both the federal and state governments. “This grant is made possible by funding from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the State Library of North Carolina, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources,” says Richards. On the fourth Tuesday of each month, students are invited to attend Crafternoon, where they’ll be challenged to create a beautiful work of art under the direction of Youth Services Coordinator James Stewart-Payne. Each creation is guaranteed suitable for display by proud parents and grandparents. All of these programs are free and open to everyone, even if they are not card-holding library patrons. Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library is located at 249 Frank Allen Road. For information about these programs and all the services provided by the library, call (828) 743-0215.

For Photographers By Photographers Studio Space Rental Offering Indoor/Outdoor Mini-Session Spaces Office Areas Professional Backdrops and Lighting Client Meeting Space Photography Classes For The Novice To The Pro Photography Excursions Colleen Kerrigan | Susan Renfro 478 Dillard Road | Highlands Creek Village | studio106.photos | info@studio106.photos thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 17

THINGS TO DO

THREE RIVER FLY FISHING FESTIVAL BY MARY JANE MCCALL

Anglers from across the Southeast will take to local streams for the ninth incarnation of The Three River Fly Fishing Festival, April 25-27.

he Three River Fly Fishing Festival returns on April 25-27, offering anglers from near and far an opportunity to enjoy a weekend of fly fishing fun and camaraderie. Now in its ninth year, this fundraiser for the Town of Highlands Scholarship Fund offers men and women of all ages the chance to fish our miles of beautiful streams and rivers, while raising money for a worthwhile cause. Organizers hope to raise $10,000 this year. Festivities start on Thursday, April 25, with a casting clinic and competition at Harris Lake near downtown. This free event will offer novices a perfect opportunity to learn the basics, while the more seasoned angler may find that they too can pick up a pointer or two. Bring your own equipment or the Highland Hiker will have equipment available. An opening reception, sponsored by White Oak Realty Group, will be held at Lullwater House on Thursday night. This evening of fun offers participants a chance to

18 | March 2019 | Things to Do

talk strategy, enjoy delicious refreshments and beverages, and start the fundraising in earnest by bidding on silent auction items. The fishing starts in earnest on Friday and Saturday when teams of two fish all day on local waters. Each team must catch fish from the three types of rivers in our area: delayed harvest, hatchery-supported, and

native. Teams can be guided or selfguided and the Highland Hiker can help with guiding arrangements if necessary. Following an enjoyable day on the river, participants will enjoy Happy Hour at the Ugly Dog Pub on Friday. Saturday, their day concludes with an awards ceremony at Cyprus. Committee members Bee and Pat Gleeson, Hilary and Chris Wilkes, Becca Rieder, John Muir, and Jim Aschmeyer are excited that this festival offers a chance for fishermen to enjoy the natural tranquility fishing in our beautiful rivers offers. William Lamb of William Lamb and Son is designing the logo for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s festival so hats and t-shirts featuring one-of-a-kind artwork will be provided to team members, and will also be available for purchase. For more information, to register a team, or to become a sponsor contact Hilary Wilkes at hilary@highlandhiker.com, or by calling (828) 526-0441.

THINGS TO DO

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 19

THINGS TO DO

12TH ANNUAL HIGHLANDS MOTORING FESTIVAL BY STEVE HAM | PHOTOS BY SUSAN RENFRO

With even more events and entrants, Highlands Motoring Festival, set for June 6-9, is revving up for an unforgettable weekend.

ighlands will host its 12th annual Highlands Motoring Festival on June 6-9. More than 125 classic and special interest cars will roll into town for the festival’s five events spanning four days. Activities include two car shows, a guided driving tour, a parade on Main Street followed by a welcome party, and a Monte Carlo Night gala. New in 2019 is a Friday evening event, the Parade on Main Street, and on Sunday morning, the High Octane on Main car show and social gathering. Both events invite cars of any model and year and are open to the public without charge. The Friday Parade on Main Street will be followed by a welcome party at the High Dive Tavern. The Sunday gathering replaces last year’s successful Cars and Coffee with extended hours and a new name, High Octane on Main. It’s a low-key social gathering geared around cars and enthusiasts. The Festival Committee continues to raise the quality of cars for its premiere Saturday event, Cars in the Park. Classic Motorsports Magazine has bestowed its 2019 “Best Concours Event” award to HMF. Based on a readership poll, HMF beat-out much larger and more established cars shows and concours events nationally. This year’s Cars in the Park will display over 100 classic cars, a quarter of which are there by invitation from the Selection Committee, which strives to

20 | March 2019 | Things to Do

present a collection of cars that tell a story. In 2019 the Featured Marque is “The Cars of Carroll Shelby 1964-67.” Over a dozen “Shelbys” will exemplify all the Cobras, Mustangs, and Tigers of that era. Dennis Gage will be attending all five events while filming an episode of his TV show, “My Classic Car,” which is in its 23rd season and viewed by tens of millions of households worldwide. The TV show has evolved into a program that is about travel destinations as much as the car events being hosted. Mr. Gage is looking forward to his first visit to Highlands. His wife Ellen has learned about Highlands and will be joining her husband’s business trip. She discovered what makes HMF so unique – the Town of Highlands. Visit HighlandsMotoringFestival.com for registration information. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Thursday, June 6 Monte Carlo Night at Highlands Falls Country Club, 6:00 to 10:00 P.M. Friday, June 7 One Lap of the Mountains Driving Tour at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, 7:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Welcome Parade and Party at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park/ High Dive 5:30 to 8:00 P.M.

Saturday, June 8 Cars in the Park Premiere Car Show at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Music in the Park at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Sunday, June 9 High Octane on Main Car Show and Social Gathering at Wright Square, West Main Street, 8:00 A.M. to noon.

THINGS TO DO

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 21

THINGS TO DO

GREYSTONE GETAWAYS BY A.J. STEWART

Now restored to its original splendor, The Greystone Inn makes for a glorious winter retreat.

he Greystone Inn is one of the most iconic retreats on the Plateau and for the past four years, it’s been one of the most elusive. Originally built as a private residence in 1915, the building sits on a point on Lake Toxaway and commands an impressive view. Over the intervening decades, the home has changed hands several times and was turned into an inn in 1985. It was closed in 2013 for renovations that ultimately never happened. The Inn was purchased in 2017 by Shannon and Geoff Ellis. Owners and operators of The Willcox in Aiken, South Carolina, the Ellises have breathed new life into this historic retreat. There was a lot of work to be done to restore this inn to its original glory. The El-

22 | March 2019 | Things to Do

lises spent the winter living on the premises along with the tradesmen in their mad dash to finish the renovations. They succeeded and the Greystone Inn reopened in May of 2018. During their winter at the inn, the Ellises discovered something: winter at The Greystone Inn is magnificent. Now that the inn is open, it’s even more amazing than they had imagined. The home’s design is based on a Swiss chalet. The inn is reminiscent of an Alpine retreat with its overstuffed couches, roaring fireplaces, and cozy romantic rooms. In the past, the Inn was never open in the winter, but the Ellises have changed all that. Rooms normally start at $249, but you can take advantage of their Winter

Retreat Special and experience this luxury hotel for yourself. Through the end of March, rooms at the inn start at just $125, a 50 percent discount. Spend the afternoon curled up next to one of the outdoor fireplaces with their thick, cozy blankets and a s’mores kit. Or go for a brisk winter hike to one of the 250 area waterfalls and see them in all of their frozen splendor. Check out their exceptional wine list and cap off your evening by relaxing in the soaking tub in your room. The Greystone Inn has been nominated for the Best Hotels in the World List by Travel & Leisure Magazine. Call (828) 966-470 0 or visit greystoneinn.com to reserve your room now.

THINGS TO DO

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 23

THINGS TO DO

Photo by Andrea Gabbard

LAUREL’S COVER CONTEST BY MARY JANE MCCALL

We’re looking for a photo that captures all the snowglobe magic of winter on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.

he stark beauty of winter beckons the inner photographer in us all to take a few moments in the quiet beauty of nature, trying to capture the beauty of the moment so we can carry it with us throughout the year. From the bright red flash of a Cardinal or holly berry against the barren trees, to expansive sunrises and sunsets, or sunlight glistening on a freshly fallen snow, winter is a perfect time to enjoy a few moments in nature with our cameras. Whether you’re a professional photographer, or just someone who loves to capture the magic of the moment on your cell phone or pocket camera, The Laurel is offering you a chance to become a cover artist. That’s right, the 2020 Laurel winter photo contest has begun, so grab your camera and start snapping your way to fame. Your winning photograph could be the cover of our 2020 Winter Edition. Pictured

24 | March 2019 | Things to Do

are some of entries from this year’s competition. One of these might be just the inspiration you need to capture your own winning shot. All you have to do is keep an eye open for the beauty of this, our quietest and most reflective season, and capture that moment on film. Aspiring cover artists should enter their seasonal and magazine appropriate shots online at facebook.com/TheLaurelMagazine. Submitted photographs should be high resolution (at least 300 d.p.i.) and must be of the Highlands-Cashiers area. Amateurs, professionals, young and old, are encouraged to join the fun and share the beauty of the season. Pictures are now on The Laurel Facebook page and readers can vote for their favorite. The winning photograph will appear on the cover of the 2020 Winter edition of The Laurel. Visit The Laurel at facebook.com/TheLau-

relMagazine to enter and vote before the March 15 deadline. Photo by Karen Hodge

THINGS TO DO

WEEKLY EVENTS EVERY MONDAY • Daily Free Tastings,Highlands Wine Shoppe, (828) 526-4080. EVERY TUESDAY • Daily Free Tastings,Highlands Wine Shoppe, (828) 526-4080, www. highlandswineshoppe.com • Dulcimer Club meets at 9:00 A.M., at Kelsey Hutchinson Park. Free beginner lessons at the church at 1:30 P.M. (828) 743-3797 • Dulcimer Lessons - Intermediate Class 10:00 A.M., Beginners Noon, Highlands United Methodist church, (828) 787-1586. • Highlands Rotary Club, Noon, Highlands Community Center. • Duplicate Bridge, 1:00 P.M., Albert Carlton Library. (828) 743-0215. • Movies, Highlands Playhouse 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., (828) 526-2695. • Community Dinners, 6:00 P.M. Highlands Community Building. No charge for the meal. EVERY WEDNESDAY • Daily Free Tastings,Highlands Wine Shoppe, (828) 526-4080, www. highlandswineshoppe.com • Highlands Mountaintop Rotary, 5:30 P.M. Episcopal Church 500 Main Street, Highlands. • Rotary Club of Cashiers Valley, 8:00 A.M., Cashiers United Methodist Church, (828) 743-2243. • Children’s Storytime Hour 11:00 A.M. Albert Carlton Library, 828) 743-0215. • Cashiers Quilters Guild, 12:30 P.M., St Jude Catholic Church. • Duplicate Bridge Games, 12:45 P.M., Highlands Civic Center. • Mah Jong Games, 1:00 P.M., Albert Carlton Library, (828) 743-0215. • Movies, Highlands Playhouse 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., (828) 526-2695. • Live Music, 7:00 to 9:00 P.M., Slabtown Pizza, (828) 743-0020. • Bluegrass with Nitrograss, 7:30 P.M., The Ugly Dog Pub in Highlands, (828) 526-8364. EVERY THURSDAY • Daily Free Tastings,Highlands Wine Shoppe, (828) 526-4080, www. highlandswineshoppe.com • Movies, Highlands Playhouse 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., (828) 526-2695. • Free Movie, 3:40 P.M., Albert Carlton Library, (828) 743-0215. • NAMI Appalachian South support group meeting 6:45 to 8:15 P.M. at 14 West. Palmer St., Franklin, (828) 526-9510. • Bluegrass 7:00 P.M., The Dog Pub in Cashiers, (828) 743-3000. EVERY FRIDAY • Daily Free Tastings,Highlands Wine Shoppe, (828) 526-4080, www. highlandswineshoppe.com • Duplicate Bridge Games, 12:45 P.M., Highlands Civic Center. • Movies, Highlands Playhouse 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., (828) 526-2695. • Live Music, 6:00 to 11:00 P.M., Hummingbird Lounge, (828) 787-2625. • Live Music, 7:00 P.M., On The Verandah, (828) 526-2338. • Live Music, The Ugly Dog Pub in Cashiers, (828) 743-3000. EVERY SATURDAY • Daily Free Tastings,Highlands Wine Shoppe, (828) 526-4080. • Movies, Highlands Playhouse 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., (828) 526-2695. • Live Music, 6:00 to 11:00 P.M., Hummingbird Lounge, (828) 787-2625. • Live Music, 7:00 P.M., On The Verandah, (828) 526-2338. • Live Music 8:00 P.M.. The Ugly Dog Pub in Cashiers, (828) 743-3000. • Live Music 9:30 P.M.. The Ugly Dog Pub in Highlands, (828) 526-8364. EVERY SUNDAY • Movies, Highlands Playhouse 1:00 and 4:00 P.M., (828) 526-2695. • Live Music, 8:00 to 10:00 P.M., Hummingbird Lounge, (828) 787-2625.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

• Saturday, March 2: Live via Satellite Met Opera production of Donizetti’s La Fille Du Régiment at 12:55 P.M. There will be a pre-opera discussion 30 minutes before. Tickets available online at highlandspac.org or at the door. Highlands PAC, 507 Chestnut Street, Highlands N.C., (828) 526-9047. • Saturday, March 9: 2019 Heritage Apple Day 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. at the Cashiers Community Center across from the Cashiers Fire Department. For further information contact the Cashiers Historical Society at (828) 743-7710 or visit cashiershistoricalsociety.org. • Friday, March 15: The Laurel Cover artist reception starting at 5:30 P.M. featuring Susan Renfro at Studio 106. The studio is located at 478 Dillard Road, Highlands, NC. Contact Susan at suebphoto.com or email her at suebrenfro@gmail.com for more information about sharing space with like-minded creative spirits at Studio 106. • Wednesday, March 27: Business Education Series Succession Planning for Your Biz, 8:30 to 10:00 A.M. at the Highlands Civic Center. The class is coordinated between Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Southwestern Community College, Registration required. For more information visit bit.ly/HighlandsSBC or call the Chamber/Visitors Center at (828) 526-2112 or Southwestern Community College Small Business Center Director Tiffany Henry (828) 339-4426. • Saturday, March 30: Live via Satellite Met Opera production of Wagner’s Die Walküre at 12 noon, with a run time of 5.5 hours. (Sandwiches available for purchase). There will be a pre-opera discussion 30 minutes before. Tickets available online at highlandspac.org or at the door. Highlands PAC, 507 Chestnut Street, Highlands N.C., (828) 526-9047. • Saturday, March 30: Betsy Paul Art Raffle, to benefit the Cashiers-Glenville Fire Department, features artwork by Annell Metsker. The drawing will be held at 5:00 P.M. For more information, contact Betsy Paul Real Estate at (828) 743-0880. • Friday, April 5: Great Art on Screen, featuring Caravaggio, 5:30 P.M. at. Highlands Performing Arts Center, in conjunction with The Bascom. Opportunity for discussion afterwards at 4118, in Bryson’s Shopping Center. Please call 4118 for reservation, please mention Great Art on Screen, (828) 526-5002. Tickets ($16) are available online: highlandspac.org or at the door. Highlands PAC, 507 Chestnut Street, Highlands NC. • Friday, April 5: Culinary Stars and Whispering Angel Dinner, hosted by Old Edwards Inn,, at The Farm at Old Edwards. Cocktail hour will begin at 6:30 in the Barn, then move to the Farm Pavilion for an evening of live entertainment, wine education and

an exquisitely paired dinner at 7:30. The evening’s entertainment will be provided by Dulci Ellenberger. The Rose Wine Dinner is $165 per person, excluding taxes and gratuities. Seating is limited, so call (828) 787-2635 or (828) 787-2620 to book your place. • Wednesday, April 24: Business Education Series Grow Your Small Biz with Excellent Customer Service, 8:30 to 10:00 A.M. at the Highlands Civic Center. The class coordinated between Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Southwestern Community College, Registration required For more information visit bit.ly/ HighlandsSBC or call the Chamber/Visitors Center at (828) 526-2112 or Southwestern Community College Small Business Center Director Tiffany Henry (828) 339-4426. • April 25-27: Three River Fly Fishing Festival to benefit Town of Highlands Scholarship Fund. Free casting clinic and competition at Harris Lake near downtown Thursday, April 25. Opening reception, sponsored by White Oak Realty Group, will be held at Lullwater House Thursday night. Fishing starts Friday and Saturday when teams of 2 fish all day on local waters. Happy Hour at the Ugly Dog Pub on Friday. Saturday, the day concludes with an awards ceremony at Cyprus. For more information, to register a team or to become a sponsor Hilary Wilkes at hilary@highlandhiker.com, or by calling (828) 526-0441. • April 27-28: The North Georgia Arts Guild (NGAG) presents the Celebrate Clayton Art Festival, celebrating fine art and crafts since 1999 on Main Street in downtown Clayton. For more information visit northgeorgiaartsguild.com or celebrateclayton.com. • Monday April 29: Art League Of Highlands and Cashiers meeting at The Bascom. or more information: (828) 787-1538 or artleaguehighlands-cashiers.com. • Thursday, April 25: Dining out for Life will feature a variety of restaurants in Western North Carolina. For more information visit wncap.org/DOFL. • Wednesday, May 20: Business Education Series Life/Work Balance for Biz Owner, 8:30 to 10:00 A.M. at the Highlands Civic Center. The class coordinated between Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Southwestern Community College, Registration required For more information visit bit.ly/HighlandsSBC or call the Chamber/Visitors Center at (828) 526-2112 or Southwestern Community College Small Business Center Director Tiffany Henry (828) 339-4426. • Saturday, May 25: Grooving not he Gree Cashiers Concert Series, kicks off Memorial Day Weekend at the Village Green. For more information call (828) 743-3434 or visit villagegreencashiersnc.com

See website for details: www.highlands-cashierscalendar.com thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 25

ACCOMMODATIONS Colonial Pines Inn.................... Whiteside Cove Cottages.......

Highlan

ARTS Carolina Gallery of Fine Art......... Mill Creek Gallery & Framing....... Smitten.................................... The Bascom........................... REAL ESTATE Country Club Properties.......... John Cleaveland Realty.......... Landmark Realty Group.......... Meadows Mtn. Realty............. White Oak Realty Group......... Pat Allen Realty Group ........... RESTAURANT / BAR Altitudes Restaurant................ The Log Cabin......................... Meritage................................. Mountain Fresh........................ Nectar Juice Bar..................... Rosewood Market..................... The Ugly Dog Pub...................... Wild Thyme Gourmet ............... Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro. SHOPPING ACP Home Interiors..................... Bear Mountain Outfitters............ Brookings Fly Shop.................... C.Orrico..................................... Cabin Couture......................... Classic Links & Luggage.......... Jannie Bean Fine Custom Jewelry.

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

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

Dry Sink....................................…

HighlandsFineArt&EstateJewelryCorp.

Martha Anne’s..........................

Dutchman’s Designs................

Highlands Kids............................

McCulley’s on the Hill..............

26 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com

HIGHLANDS NC

nds Map

McCulleys Main Street.............

TJ Bailey’s..................................

Creative Concepts Salon...............

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

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

Highlands Visitors Center................ Highlands Aerial Park...............

Peak Experience............... …… Spice & Tea Exchange...................

SERVICES

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

Dauntless Printing ...................

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

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 27

ACCOMMODATIONS High Hampton Inn & Country Club .................................................... Innisfree Bed and Breakfast By-the-Lake ................................................... Laurelwood Inn ............................................... ARTS FireMoss Pottery ............................................. Mountain Mist Gallery ........................................... REAL ESTATE Betsy Paul Properties ............................................. Landmark Realty Group ........................................ McKee Properties ........................................... Silver Creek Real Estate Group ..................... RESTAURANTS Sapphire Brewery & Pub .............................. The Ugly Dog Pub .......................................... The Zookeeper Bistro ........................................ RETAIL A Jones Company........................................... Afternoon Delight .......................................... Bee Bags and Such ......................................... Bella Cotn .......................................................... Bird Barn and Gift Emporium........................ Blue Ridge Bedding/ Carolina Rustic Furniture ............................... Bounds Cave........................................................... Brooking’s Cashiers Village Anglers .................. Cashiers Farmer’s Market ............................. Consignment Market ........................................ Fiddlehead Designs ................................................ Gray Lighting & Woodwork......................... Gracewear Collection .................................... Highland Hiker ................................................ Josephine’s Emporium ................................. Interior Enhancements ................................. 28 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com 28 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com

Lenz Gifts & Linens ................................................. McCulley’s ......................................................... Nearly New ....................................................... Nora & Co........................................................... Rusticks. ............................................................. Sawyer Family Farmstead ............................... Summer Place Antiques ............................... The Look Boutique .........................................

CASHIERS NC

CASHIERS VALLEY NC

TJ Bailey................................................................ Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Closet ...................................................... VC for Men ................................................................. The Village Hound ............................................ Vivianne Metzger Antiques ............................. Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming ........................... Zoller Hardware ......................................................

SERVICES Cashiers Chamber ............................................. Dargan Landscape Architects/ Dovecote Gardens ...................................... Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming .......................

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 29 thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 29

REAL ESTATE GROUP 30 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com

VIDEOS | 3D HOME TOURS | NC LIVING MAGAZINE V I S I T OR’ S G U I DE | C U R AT E D C OL L E C T ION OF HOM E S

FIND IT ALL at NCLIVING.COM

C A SCHAI SEHR ISE R 8 S2 88• 27 84 •37• 41 9 3 •9199 9 |9

H| I GHHI LGAHNL D A SN D 8 S2 88• 25 82 •65• 22 69 •9299 9 9

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 31

THE ARTS

COVER ARTIST: SUSAN RENFRO

HAPPILY LOST IN THE LIGHT BY DONNA RHODES

Susan Renfro relishes the possibilities unveiled by the interplay between light and shadow, captured upon a frame of film.

or Susan Renfro, light defines life. She cherishes it in Nature. She searches for it in a sea of faces. She waits for its shadowy edges to sharpen; its aura, tone or atmosphere to burst open and reveal an emotional flash. At the instant the light exposes that magical moment, she snaps the shutter, capturing a story, layers-deep, in a sliver of time.

32 | March 2019 | The Arts

Seeing the light comes naturally to Susan’s family. It’s practically genetic. Her dad retired from Kodak. Her parents, grandparents, and great grandparents were rarely cameraless. Brownies, SLRs, Instamatics, Polaroids, and movie cameras were forever at hand. Her great grandmother developed movie film in her bathtub. They captured family moments, things organic, or objects

mechanical… it didn’t matter. What mattered was the thrill of confidently pocketing life’s memories, thus owning them forever. Susan’s full-time job was raising four wonderful kids (who, yes, had the photo gene). But after a divorce, she had to shift gears. She fell back on what she knew, photography. She got a job and supplemented it with

THE ARTS

Susan Renfro

photo-shoot income, gradually building a client base. Today, with her children out of the nest, she has time to focus on the beauty of the Plateau. This issue’s Spring cover is a shining example. She says, “I like being behind the camera. I get totally lost in the light and emotion.” What’s on Susan’s visual horizon? Since there are so many photographers in her

family, she is considering a family exhibition … five generations of shutterbugs. Her latest joy is sharing space with like-minded creative spirits at Highlands Studio 106. “I look forward to working and growing together personally while promoting our joint business venture,” she says. Studio 106’s address is 478 Dillard Road,

Highlands Creek Village. As this month’s Laurel cover artist, Susan’s work will be featured in an artist reception, March 15th, starting at 5:30 P.M. Contact Susan at suebphoto.com; her email address is suebrenfro@gmail.com. You’ll also find her at Instagram.com/ susan _ b _ photography/ and instagram. com/suebrenfro/.

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 33

THE ARTS

BRINGING BACK THE HITS BY DONNA RHODES

The Highlands Playhouse celebrates its 2019 season with the music of Buddy Holly, the passion of Patsy Cline, and the wide-open charm of “Oklahoma.”

he Highlands Playhouse is still charged with excitement from its 2018 grand finale, “Guys and Dolls.” Managing Director Lance Matzke says, “Theater-goers tell us that every season our staging, acting, directing, music, costumes and scenery get more beautiful, creative, and impressive. Their praise inspires us to work harder on each production to show our gratitude. That’s why we’ve upped the ante for 2019 to celebrate our venerable Oak Street facility with a season packed full of our most popular Playhouse shows. It’s our tribute to Highlands for supporting us all these years.” Kicking off this year’s Playhouse season is “The Buddy Holly Story.” From the moment “That’ll Be The Day” hit the charts, Buddy, the young man who rocked those glasses, took the reins of a blockbusting, albeit short-lived, career. Buddy’s story was adapted for stage based on the 1978 award-winning cinematic version starring Gary Busey. “Oh Boy,” get ready to “Rave On” to Buddy’s greatest hits that, accord-

34 | March 2019 | The Arts

ing to The Boston Globe, “Will have you on your feet and send you out of the theater on an unstoppable high.” Tickets go on sale in April. The opening night kickoff is June 20, and the show runs through July 6.

If you “know you belong to the land, and the land you belong to is grand,” then you’re the perfect audience for an alltime favorite, “Oklahoma.” Mark your calendar for July 11 through 27 for this heartof-America classic. From rock’n’roll to Rogers and Hammerstein, take another musical turn, this time into Country’s heart’n’soul with “Always,” the story of Patsy Cline. It’s based on letters that she sent to fans over the years and signed “Always, Patsy Cline.” “Always” is slated for August 1 through 17. These are three show-stopping, jawdropping, eye-popping musicals guaranteed to please. Stay tuned for highlights and the inside scoop as The Laurel shines the spotlight on each, starting in April. For more information about the season, contributions, patronage, and more, call Lance at (828) 526-2695. This season, join us as we recount the memories and commemorate the legacy of the past eight decades of outstanding Highlands Playhouse performances.

THE ARTS

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 35

THE ARTS

PAINTING THE CONNECTION Through her music, her art and her lively, loving family, Lara Julian Potter is the glorious incarnation of the Spirit of Appalachia.

ara Julian Potter (née Polangco) is a North Georgia native, and lives there with her husband and their five children. She’s made a name for herself locally as a self-taught singer/songwriter, playing acoustic guitar, banjo, and mountain dulcimer. These inform the depth and soul of the traditional string instruments she loves best to paint: “There is a kind of communion, a relationship that you develop with an instrument, as if it has its own unique voice and soul. I love painting guitars, I love the shapes and the

36 | March 2019 | The Arts

connection there.” Lara is also an avid organic gardener, wild-crafter, and home chef. She is passionate about harvesting indigenous flora for food and medicine, frequently depicting the native plant life of our own Appalachian bioregion for splashes of color and symbolism in her figural art. When she is not gathering, daubing, or strumming, Lara is caring for her big, bustling family on 10 quiet acres tucked away in the hills. You will find Lara’s intriguing instrument paintings at the ultimate folk art gallery in

the South, Around Back at Rocky’s Place in Dawsonville, Georgia. Gallery hours are Saturday from 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., and Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00 P.M., and gladly by an appointment. They are located three miles off Georgia 400 at 3631 Hwy. 53 East at Etowah River Road. Make them your destination or stop in if you are in their neck of the woods. Look for the iconic 12-foot chainsaw carved blue angel, “Our Lady of Dawson,” as she provides a magical, unforgettable greeting!

THE ARTS

HCP’S DINNER THEATER With a quartet of comedic gems and a meal prepared by celebrated Chef Doug VanOrsdall, Highlands Cashiers Players serves up a wickedly fun Dinner Theater.

arch is the month for Highlands Cashiers Players’ popular Dinner Theater at the Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center. The show dates will be Thursday, Friday, and Saturday – March 21 through 23, and 28 through 30. Doors open at 6:30 P.M. and the dinner shows begin at 7:00 P.M. Four one-acts will be performed between dinner courses created, prepared, and catered by Chef Doug VanOrsdall. Wine will also be available throughout the evening at our cash bar. Veteran actor and director Donna Cochran directs “Your Number is Up,” written

by Betty Prisendorf and starring Virginia Talbot and Elizabeth Gordon. Lynleigh McLain, an HCP star, debuts her directing skills with “Last Words,” written by Philip Kaplan, with Craig Eister and Michelle Silverthorn starring. Talented actress Jamie Thomas directs for HCP for the first time with “Life with Jamie,” by Lauren Yee, with Jenna Barry and Todd Lipphardt starring. In addition to acting, Todd Lipphardt is also debuting as a new director to HCP with “O Tannenbaum,” written by Mark Henry Levine and starring Ricky Siegel and Rachel Fiesel. Lance Trudel is Stage Manager, and Courtney Scar-

borough is the Production Coordinator. Join the Highlands Cashiers Players for an evening out in Highlands for dinner and a show. Tickets are $37.50 and can be purchased online through our website at highlandscashiersplayers.org, stopping by the box office at 507 Chestnut Street, or calling (828) 526-8084. Season Tickets are also always available online as well for $85.40 each. Also keep in mind that the Highlands Cashiers Players is a community theater and relies on our sponsors at every level. We thank our community for their continued support since 1995.

For more information about the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, visit thelaurelmagazine.com

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 37

THE ARTS

La Fille du Regiment

WAGNER & DONIZETTI BY MARY ADAIR TRUMBLY | HIGHLANDS PAC

The Highlands Performing Arts Center celebrates the end of winter and the arrival of spring with the sparkling “La Fille Du Régiment” and a truly epic “Die Walküre.”

he Highlands Performing Arts Center will present the Met Opera productions of “La Fille Du Régiment” and “Die Walküre” in March, Live via Satellite. On Saturday, March 2, Donizetti’s “La Fille Du Régiment” will begin at 12:55 P.M. Bel canto stars Pretty Yende and Javier Camarena team up for a feast of vocal fireworks on the Met stage. Baritone Maurizio Muraro is Sergeant Sulplice, with mezzo-soprano Stephanie Blythe as the outlandish Marquise of Berkenfield. Enrique Mazzola conducts. This frothy comedy concerns a young orphan girl raised by an army regiment as their mascot and begins at the moment of her first stirrings of love. Complications (and comedy) ensue when her true identity is discovered. The action is startlingly simple and unencumbered by intricate subplots, allowing the full charm of the characters and their virtuosic music to come across in an uninhibited way. Wagner’s “Die Walküre” will be screened

38 | March 2019 | The Arts

ity in opera’s most famous act of filial defiance. Tenor Stuart Skelton and soprano EvaMaria Westbroek are the twins Siegmund and Sieglinde, and bass-baritone Greer Grimsley sings the god Wotan. Philippe Jordan conducts. The second opera in Wagner’s monumental “Ring” cycle, “Die Walküre” has long stood on its own as an evening of extraordinarily powerful theater. Part of this appeal lies in its focus on some of the Ring’s most interesting characters at decisive moments of their lives: Wotan, the leader of the gods; his wife, Fricka; his twin offspring, Siegmund and Sieglinde; and, above all, Wotan’s warrior daughter Brünnhilde. These characters and others follow their destinies to some of Wagner’s most remarkable music. There will be a pre-opera discussion 30 minutes before each opera. Tickets are available at highlandspac.org or at the door. Highlands PAC is located at 507 Chestnut Street. For more information, call (828) 526-9047.

Die Walküre

at noon Saturday, March 30. This production has a run time of 5.5 hours, and sandwiches will be available for purchase. In what is expected to be a Wagnerian event for the ages, soprano Christine Goerke plays Brünnhilde, the willful title warrior maiden, who loses her immortal-

THE ARTS

GREAT ART ON SCREEN BY MARY ADAIR TRUMBLY | HIGHLANDS PAC

A new film series explores the visions and passions that shaped the lives and works of history’s most celebrated artists.

he Highlands Performing Arts Center and The Bascom have joined forces to bring Great Art on Screen to the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. Great Art on Screen is a series of 90-minute documentaries featuring such great artists as Van Gogh, Caravaggio, Klimt & Schiele, and Monet. Audiences will be able to journey all over the world with scholars viewing the dramatic and violent portraits of the master of light and shadow, Caravaggio, whose internal struggles are expressed in his emotional masterpieces. Early 20th century Vienna provides the backdrop for works of extraordinary visual power by two friends, mentor Gustav Klimt and his protégé Egon Schiele, and an exclusive tour and examination of Claude Monet’s timeless and

of the Italian master Michelangelo Merisi di Caravaggio. Roberto Longi, a Caravaggio expert, explores in the artist’s masterpieces the echo of personal experiences and the expression of the human state, both physical and emotional. These evocative moments – thanks to the use of light and cinematic techniques – allow viewers to go deep inside the mind and soul of Caravaggio, empathizing with his impulses and fears. There will be an opportunity for discussion afterwards at 4118, in Bryson’s Shopping Center. Please call 4118 at (828) 526-5002 for reservations, and mention Great Art on Screen. Tickets are $16 and are available at highlandspac. org or at the door. Highlands PAC is located at 507 Chestnut Street.

Caravaggio’s Medusa

stunning masterpieces of water lilies. Three more events are in production and will be announced shortly. A screening at 5:30 P.M. Friday, April 5, will feature Caravaggio. It’s an immersive journey through the life, works and struggles

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 39

THE ARTS

SPRING ART LINKS BY PATTY CALDERONE | HIGHLANDS CASHIERS ART LEAGUE

Spring brings the creative flowering of local artistic talents, spotlighted by a series of shows and activities.

arch is here, and soon forsythia and daffodils will be popping out all over. Forsythia is the symbol of anticipation and excitement, and the daffodil denotes hope, joy, and friendship. Bright yellow to me perfectly symbolizes hope and anticipation and longing for more sunshine, especially after all the gray of winter. So, I have been inspired to reach out to our surrounding neighbors in a warm token of friendship to share some of their artistic activities coming this spring. Artists tend to be very gregarious folks. Many Art League members belong to several art groups and are participating in all three of these organizations’ events. Spring is a wonderful time to get out and check out something arty and new. Here are some of the top events we would like to mention. Remember to save the dates.

40 | March 2019 | The Arts

ART LEAGUE OF HIGHLANDS & CASHIERS ALHC 2019 meeting dates at the Bascom: April 29 • May 20 • June 24 • July 29 • August 26 • September 23 • October 28 Summer Colors Fine Art Show July 20 -21 – Sapphire Valley Community Center Fall Colors Fine Art Show October 19-20 – Highlands Civic Center For more information: (828) 7871538 or visit artleaguehighlands-cashiers.com MACON COUNTY ARTS ASSOCIATION With the New Year and an ambitious new Board of Directors, The Macon County Art Association is ready to take on their mission to “Inspire Visual Art” in the community. If you have not been to the Uptown Galley in a while, it has a new sign, look, and expanded inventory. Also new this Season is a reserved alcove area that

showcases local area artists and other creative groups. The artists from the Cowee School Arts and Heritage Center exhibited in February. The Student Art Show in March celebrates Youth Art Month, and The Art League of Highlands-Cashiers will occupy the alcove in April. For more information contact us at (828) 349-4607 or franklinuptowngallery.com. NORTH GEORGIA ART GUILD April 27-28, the North Georgia Arts Guild (NGAG) presents the Celebrate Clayton Art Festival, celebrating fine art and crafts since 1999 on Main Street in downtown Clayton. There will be more than a hundred exhibiting artists, tasty festival food, live music, kids’ art activities, and student art competition. NGAG also hosts monthly art presentations. For more information on NGAG, visit northgeorgiaartsguild.com and www.celebrateclayton.com.

Photo by Patty Calderone

THE ARTS

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 41

THE ARTS

42 | March 2019 | The Arts

THE ARTS

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 43

DINING

QUINTESSENTIALLY HIGHLANDS BY LUKE OSTEEN

Torta de Carnitas

Highlands Deli maintains the small-town friendliness and commitment to quality that’s made it a favorite of locals and visitors alike for decades. Regardless of what you order, save room for ice cream!

ere we are in March, and throughout this issue of Laurel , you’ll find heaps of references to the arrival of Spring, popping up like the crocuses that my Mom always noted when she talked about this blessed season. Nature columns, gardening tips, guides to hiking and fishing, they all note the season. Heck, even Dr. Anastasia Halldean’s healthy recipe is a classic Spring concoction. All of these talented writers, each one so connected to this world, each one dedicated to discovering the best that life has to offer. Yet it seems like I’m the only one who’s recognized the other March arrival, the one freighted with equal, if not greater, import for those dedicated to living a complete, fulfilling life. How about the start of the baseball season? Here on the Plateau, across America, and in every corner of the civilized world. How could they miss it? And why on earth would I begin a review of Highlands Deli with this bit of marvelous news? Well, to answer that, let’s go back a lot of years when the place was called

44 | March 2019 | Dining

Highlands Hill Deli. This is where I’d take my son Alex after a challenging Tee-Ball game (where his team racked up an astonishing 12-0 record, just like every other team in the league), and after the wins and losses of his Highlands baseball team. When I was coaching, I’d sometimes treat the entire team to a visit to the deli. We’d refuel on hearty sandwiches, hot dogs, and ice cream, lots of ice cream. It was there that Alex unveiled what many consider to be the finest baseball riddle ever to come out of Highlands School, courtesy of Kindergarten Teacher Jane Chalker: “Why was Cinderella such a lousy baseball player? “Because she had a pumpkin for a coach!” The point is, this was a terrific place to bring a passel of hungry kids. The servings were generous, the prices were reasonable, and, of course, there was that ice cream. So here we are now, in 2019, and Highlands Deli (they’ve taken out the “Hill” portion of the name) maintains that wholesome, welcoming aura, almost vanished from the landscape. Like The Farmer’s Market, or Buck’s, this is a place for locals, and those who want to be locals, and those who are just passing through. Like those places, you

go there for food and refreshment, and hang around for the stories and gossip. You’re never a stranger, even if you really are. But enough digression, let’s get on to the review. Like that coach from long ago, I arrived with a long list of orders, this for a group of hungry, borderline cranky office workers. Consider all these selections accepted by the counterman without batting an eye: A Cuban Sandwich, a Muffaleta, the Legendary Highlands Hill Sandwich on Sourdough, Seafood Bisque, Spinach Salad, a hearty Torta de Carnitas, and a French Dip Sandwich au jus. Even though I was in the middle of a lunch crowd, the kitchen delivered two groaning bags of food in nine minutes and I was on my way to the office. First of all, let me explain the peril involved here. Like I said, this is an office crowd and they have an inordinate amount of control over my life. Also, they can be snarky when their hunger is not sated and their palates remain disappointed. An inadequate lunch on a cold, dim, fluorescent February day can lead to all sorts of unexpected consequences for me and my career, extending

DINING

Cuban

Very Berry Ice Cream

Reuben

Spinach Salad

well past the end of the World Series. But not to worry! The gobbling of the sandwiches, the slurping of the soup, the shoveling of the salads were met with satisfied sighs all around. I was saved. The Cuban was served up in the most traditional, loving manner. It’s an unabashed masterpiece, a piling on of ham, Swiss cheese, smoked pork, thinly sliced dill pickles, and mustard, heated and pressed with a precision that would make Ricky Ricardo weep with joy. The same care went into the preparation of the Muffaleta. This is an overstuffed sandwich bulging with ham, salami, havarti cheese, cream cheese and garlic spread, and olive spread. Even with all that, it’s the olive spread that really elevates this creation. There’s something transcendent about its appearance in the mix. The Highlands Hill has earned its reputation as the Highlands sandwich against which all others are measured. It’s piled high with turkey, bacon, havarti cheese, and avocado. It turns out that the avocado is crucial to this thing working. Torta de Carnitas was judged by Serenity as the “best deal on the menu. I was sur-

prised at how tender the meat was – excellent! It was a great blend of flavors! You could taste each thing without them overwhelming each other.” You wouldn’t think there’d be much to say about a Spinach Salad, and there really isn’t, except, in the words of Megan, “It was really fresh - nothing wilty or brown or sad and tired looking.” Megan also had nothing but praise for the Seafood Bisque, which, in her words was, ”Amazing! The perfect blend of flavors, set against the right amount of sherry. This was my favorite of everything we sampled.” Everyone was surprised that the chips that came with the orders were accompanied by a marvelous French onion dip, which tasted like something homemade and served to company. Well, I’ve gotten this far and I haven’t even mentioned the deli’s suite of SweeTreats Craft Ice Cream creations. They start off with a vanilla or chocolate ice cream base and blend in your personalized selection of fresh toppings. It’s irresistible and deeply, deeply gratifying, and serves as a perfect punctuation to your meal. Do not miss the ice cream! If you have to, forgo the sandwiches and the sal-

ads. Skip this experience and you’ll wake up at 2:15 A.M. the next morning with a deep pang of regret. Trust me! So there you go, if you need a quintessential Highlands meal or an ice cream treat suitable for strolling and savoring, visit Highlands Deli. You’ll find the place at the corner of Main Street and Fourth. No, they don’t take reservations for a table, but they have an app where you can order and pay in advance and schedule your pick up time. The biggest advantage to the app is that you pay for the order through the app and not at the register…so no lines when you pick up! In a nod to its business being predicated on local traffic, Highlands Deli is offering 10 percent off of all local orders through the end of April. That means you can treat your entire baseball team to a treat without breaking the bank. And for those of you shaken up by the revelation that Cinderella was not very good at baseball, it turns out she was pretty poor at other sports as well: “Why was Cinderella such a bad football player?” “She kept running away from the ball!” Thank you.

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 45

DINING Chef Sarah Steffan

Chef Whitney Otawka

Chef Jessica Gamble

CULINARY STARS AND SPRING ROSÉS BY A.J. STEWART

The loveliness of the season is reflected in the multi-sensory delights of Old Edwards Inn’s Culinary Stars and Whispering Angel Dinner.

n Friday, April 5, join the Old Edwards Inn for the Culinary Stars and Whispering Angel Dinner. Every year, Old Edwards Inn hosts this dinner, served up by their in-house chefs, at The Farm at Old Edwards to celebrate the release of the spring rosés. But this year, the dinner will be a little different. “We wanted to kick it up a notch this year,” says Marketing Director Amanda Sullivan. The evening will be presented by Paul Chevalier, former winemaker of Champagne Veuve Clicquot and Cloudy Bay. Paul will lead you through the rosé Lifestyle of SaintTropez with Château D’Esclans as he presents his distinctive rosés, including the global favorite, Whispering Angel. Cocktail hour will begin at 6:30 P.M. in The Barn, then move to the Farm Pavilion for a wondrous evening of live entertainment, wine education, and an exquisitely paired dinner at 7:30 P.M.

46 | March 2019 | Dining

The dinner will be crafted by a trio of celebrated chefs: Chef Sarah Steffan of The Dogwood at Blackberry Farm, Chef Whitney Otawka of The Greyfield Inn on Cumberland Island, and Chef Jessica Gamble of KR Steakbar in Atlanta. Each of these talented chefs will bring their own culinary twists to the table. The dinner will include smoked salmon crostini hors d’oeuvres followed by a fourcourse meal of braised white asparagus, lump crab cakes, roasted baby carrots, and Peking Duck. The evening’s entertainment will be provided by Dulci Ellenberger. Ranging from folk to Motown and soul, this powerhouse singer and guitarist brings high-caliber musicianship and unmatched energy to every performance. The dinner is $165 per person, excluding taxes and gratuities. Seating is limited, so call (828) 787-2635 or (828) 787-2620 to book your place.

DINING

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 47

DINING

THE LEGENDARY MAMA’S RECIPES BY DONNA RHODES

The genius of Helen “Mama” Thompson lives on the memories of those fortunate enough to have sampled her recipes at Highlands School and The Highlander Restaurant and the owners of her coveted cookbook.

ulia Child said, “People who love to eat are always the best people.” If that is so, then Helen McKinney Cleaveland “Mama” Thompson might top the list of bests…times three. She loved to eat. She loved to cook. And she loved sharing recipes. In fact, if there is a down-home Highlands cookbook that personifies our town’s good food and hospitality, it’s “Mama’s Recipes,” a collection of menu delights compiled by daughter, June Thompson Medlin. Helen Cleaveland was widowed not too long before she married Dr. H. P. P. “Percy” Thompson, who’d come to town to recover from a severe illness. When his health was restored, he served as town doctor for a dozen years before his passing. Together, Helen and Dr. Thompson raised three girls and two boys in addition to the three boys Helen had by her first husband. In the midst of the Depression, Dr. Thompson often took no pay for his services. When he died, Mama Thompson and her eight children were left with little on which to live. It was clear her gift in life was cook-

48 | March 2019 | Dining

ing, so “Mama” got a job running the school lunchroom. There she tried out her homemade soups, bread, roast turkey, cheese soufflé, black bottom-, buttermilk-, and sweet potato-pies on the toughest crowd ever … school children. Clearly Mama Thompson was the antithesis of most elementary school dining experiences. For three decades kids adored her and chowed down, wiping gravied chins, and burping resplendently after attacking a plateful of deliciousness. In fact, her recipes were so scrumptious they were featured in The Highlander Restaurant where her Buttermilk Pie could have gotten her elected President had she the means to circulate it around the country. Mama Thompson is a culinary legend and worthy of a tribute next time a Plateau food fest hits town. Occasionally a used copy of Mama’s Recipes shows up on Amazon, though it is currently out-of-print. It’s a treasure worth seeking. Contact Ran Shaffner at the Highlands Historical Society if you’d like to view the cookbook and explore some fine Southern delights and a taste of how things used to be. Call (828) 787-1050.

Shrimp de Jonghe Ingredients: 1 cup butter, melted 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 cup chopped parsley 1/2 tsp. paprika Dash cayenne pepper 2/3 cup cooking sherry 5-6 cups cleaned, cooked shrimp (4 lbs. in shell) 2 cups soft bread crumbs 2 tbsp. melted butter Preparation: Mix together the first 6 ingredients. Place shrimp in oblong baking dish. Pour liquid mixture over shrimp and top with bread crumbs which have been mixed with the melted butter. Bake at 325 ° for 20 - 25 minutes.

DINING

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 49

DINING

50 | March 2019 | Dining

DINING

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 51

DINING DINING

See Ad On Page

Take Out

Outdoor Dining

Live Music

•

Dress Code

Full Bar

•

Reservations Recommended

Wine

Vegetarian Selections

Dinner

Children’s Menu

Lunch

Your Guide to the Restaurants of Highlands & Cashiers

Breakfast

Mountain Dining

Sunday Brunch

thelaurelmagazine.com/cuisine

HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS 4118 Kitchen and Bar • 64 Highlands Plaza • (828) 526-5002 Bake My Day Cafe & Bistro • 137 Main Street • Wright Square • (828) 487-4633

•

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

$-$$ •

•

• •

•

The Kitchen CarryAway & Catering • 350 S. Fifth Street • (828) 526-2110

$-$$ $-$$

•

The Log Cabin • 130 Log Cabin Lane • (828) 526-5777

$-$$ $-$$ $$

Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden • 445 Main Street • (828) 787-2525

•

$$ $$ •

Meritage Bistro • 490 Carolina Way • (828) 526-1019

$-$$ $-$$ $-$$ •

On the Verandah • Highway 64 (Franklin Road) • (828) 526-2338

$-$$

SweeTreats Deli • Corner of 4th and Main • (828) 526-9632 The Ugly Dog Pub • 298 South 4th Street • (828) 526-8364

$-$$ • $

Wolfgang’s Restaurant • 460 Main Street • (828) 526-3807

• 47

• $$$ •

C •

$$$

Lakeside Restaurant • Smallwood Avenue • (828) 526-9419

• 49

•

Fire + Water Restaurant • Reservations Required • (828) 526-4446 *

• 47

•

• • 48

•

• • 48

• •

•

$-$$ •

•

52 4

•

• •

•

• • 53

•

C •

• NC

•

• 50 •

• 50 • •

• •

CASHIERS AREA RESTAURANTS Restaurant at Greystone Inn • 220 Greystone Lane • 828-966-4700

¢-$ ¢-$ ¢-$ $-$$ •

Slab Town Pizza • 45 Slab Town Road • (828) 743-0020

• •

The Ugly Dog Pub • 25 Frank Allen Road • (828) 743-3000

Zookeeper • Mountain Laurel Shoppes • 828-743-7711

¢ $

Minimal, most entrees under $10 Moderate, most entrees $10-$15

Pricing Guide

HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS Altitude’s at Skyline Lodge - (828) 526-2121 Annie’s Cafe - (828) 526-1663 Asia House - (828) 787-1680 Bake My Day Bakery & Cafe - (828) 487-4633 Bella’s Junction Cafe - (828) 526-0803 Bistro on Main/Main Street Inn - (828) 526-2590 The Bistro at Wolfgang’s - (828) 526-3807 Bryson’s Deli - (828) 526-3775 Buck’s Coffee Cafe - (828) 526-0020 Cyprus International Cuisine - (828) 526-4429 Dusty’s - (828) 526-2762 El Azteca - (828) 526-2244 El Manzanillo - (828) 526-0608 Fire + Water Restaurant - (828) 526-4446 Fressers Courtyard Cafe - (828) 526-4188 The Kitchen CarryAway & Catering - (828) 526-2110 Lakeside Restaurant - (828) 526-9419 The Log Cabin - (828) 526-5777 M Equals 3 - (828) 284-5096 Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden - (828) 787-2525

52 | March 2019 | Dining 52 | March 2019 | Dining

$$ Deluxe, most entrees $15-$20 $$$ Grand, most entrees over $20

Takeout Only

Meritage Bistro - (828) 526-1019 Mountain Fresh - (828) 526-2400 On the Verandah - (828) 526-2338 Pescado’s - (828) 526-9313 Pizza Place - (828) 526-5660 Paoletti’s - (828) 526-4906 Rosewood Market - (828) 526-0383 Sports Page - (828) 526-3555 Subway - (828) 526-1706 SweeTreats Deli - (828) 526-9632 The Ugly Dog Pub - (828) 526-8364 Wild Thyme Gourmet - (828) 526-4035 Wine Garden at Old Edwards Inn - (828) 787-2525 Wolfgang’s Restaurant - (828) 526-3807 CASHIERS AREA RESTAURANTS Adair Brothers Smokehouse - (828) 743-3200 Buck’s Coffee Cafe - (828) 743-9997 Canyon Kitchen - (828) 743-7967 Chile Loco - (828) 743-1160 Cornucopia Restaurant - (828) 743-3750 Cork & Barrel Lounge - (828) 743-7477

•

• •

•

C •

C Casual

• • 47 •

•

• 50 • 48

Dress Code J

NC Nice Casual Jacket

El Manzanillo - (828) 743-5522 Four Season Grille - (828) 743-4284 Grandpop’s Ice Cream Parlor - (828) 743-7711 High Hampton Inn - (828) 743-2411 Hunt Bros. Pizza at Cashiers BP - (828) 743-2337 JJ’s Eatery and Canteen - (828) 743-7778 Mica’s Restaurant - (828) 743-5740 On the Side at Cashiers Farmers Market - (828) 743-4334 The Orchard - (828) 743-7614 Randevu Restaurant - (828) 743-0190 Restaurant at Greystone Inn - 828-966-4700 Sapphire Mountain Brewing Company - (828) 743-0220 Slab Town Pizza (STP) - (828) 743-0020 Subway - (828) 743-1300 The Blind Mule - (828) 553-8978 The Falls Cafe and Grill - 828-877-3322 The Library Kitchen and Bar - (828) 743-5512 The Ugly Dog Pub - Cashiers - (828) 743-3000 Table 64 - (828) 743-4135 Wendy’s - (828) 743-7777 Winslow’s Hideaway - (828) 743-2226 Zookeeper - (828) 743-7711

DINING

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 53

SHOPPING Lenz Gifts

SHOPPING YOUR WAY THROUGH CASHIERS 64E BY A.J. STEWART

Curated Home

Lenz Gifts

Slick’s Place

Discover the carefully-curated collections of unique home accessories and gifts found on 64E.

f you’re in the market for home furnishings and yard art, head down Highway 64 East out of Cashiers, this little corner of our mountains is a must see. Just up the road from the entrance to the Village Green is a unique little shop, known colloquially as “Slick’s Place.” The menagerie metal farm animals and other unique yard art that are lined up by the road are just as quintessentially Cashiers as Buck’s Coffee Café and the Village Green. Behind the line up are two little buildings that are stuffed to the gills with antique furniture, unique art and handmade furniture.

54 | March 2019 | Shopping

Continue on down the road just a little ways and you’ll find Curated Home and The Global Craftsman. The Global Craftsman is a local company that specializes in custom home design that incorporates reclaimed material. From 100-year-old wood beams to light fixtures, their team of expert welders, woodworkers and cabinet builders take pieces of history and turn them into works of art. Their work can be seen in several local businesses such as Slab Town Pizza, Cornucopia Restaurant, and The Chattooga Club. Visit their showroom and check out their collection of one of a kind

furniture and fixtures. Before you leave town, be sure to stop by Toby West Antiques at the Silver Creek Shopping Center. You’re sure to find something worth bragging about in their eclectic selection of home furnishings. The last stop before you make the trek up the mountain to Highlands is Lenz Gifts. Located just half-a-mile outside of Cashiers, Lenz Gifts and Luxury Linens offers gifts and finishing touches for your home, such as their selection of Yves Delorme Linens, Hanro Sleepwear, and Grace Kelly Candles.

SHOPPING

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 55

SHOPPING

WHITE SAPPHIRE STAR BURST MONICA RICH KOSANN LOCKET A most beautiful way to keep those you hold dear close to your heart.

u a e t a l P Picks 995 Acorns Boutique | Highlands $

NATURE INSPIRED Stand apart from the rest with Brackish accessories. Meticulously handmade from real peacock feathers. Plum Thicket Pin $ 55 | Bowtie $195 Cummberbund $ 695 TJ Bailey | Highlands & Cashiers

A few of our favorite finds from the shops on the Plateau

THE CASHIERS SPA CANDLE

The soft aromas of spring blooms and evergreens confirm this soy candle is aptly named. $ 35 Bombshell Hair Boutique | Cashiers

DOGGIE DAYS CARE PACKAGE Our four-legged family members are head over paws for these favorites! Chenille Dog Nest $123 | Bacon & Quinoa Treats $ 9 Tall Tail Chew Toy $ 6 | Bakery Bone Treat $ 6 Woofgang Bakery | Cashiers

56 | March 2019 | Shopping

SHOPPING

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 57

ADVENTURE OUT

TRUST OLD WHITESIDE BY EMILY CROWELL

The classic Highlands-Cashiers Plateau hike, the Whiteside Mountain Trail rewards multiple visits with sights both grand and sublime.

ou’ve heard of Whiteside Mountain. It may even be the first trail you hiked around here. I used to live in Whiteside Cove and on winter mornings would sit with a cup of coffee and watch the sunrise’s reflection slink down the bare side of the mountain until it was all lit up bright pink, loud and joyful. How lucky I was to later be able to hike to the top and try to find the house I lived in, tucked in snugly among the trees. The Whiteside Mountain Trail, at around two miles round trip, is probably the most popular trail around, which is why I recommend giving it a go during the “off-season” (or at a weird time, like in the middle of the night). As a matter of fact, I thought I might write an article about it last summer, but the parking lot was so crowded that my sweetie and I couldn’t even pull into it, much less find an unoccupied space. This may not sound like much of an

58 | March 2019 | Adventure Out

endorsement so far, but as these things go, there’s a reason why Whiteside is so popular. It’s a relatively easy loop trail, for one thing. From the parking area, the trail starts out wide, with built-in wooden steps. In a few minutes walk, you’ll have the option of continuing on the wide trail or taking a narrower trail up to the right. I recommend the trail to the right – it’s steeper going up, but that makes the path back down that much sweeter. There are views, of course. Standing atop Whiteside, you’ll be standing on the very edge of the Southern Blue Ridge Escarpment. (Well, almost – there’s railing to keep people from going over.) Beyond the immediately close mountains, the landscape instead gets dramatically flatter and dotted with lakes. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a peregrine falcon riding the breeze at eye level. Whiteside is a nesting spot for the birds of prey, and some of the overlooks

are closed during nesting season, which shouldn’t deter you from the hike. My favorite part about this trail is all the water. Water seeps out of the ground, across the trail, down the mountain in so many tiny unexpected places here – even during the drought a couple years ago, water could be found on this trail. Subfreezing temperatures turn this hike into a stroll through Mother Nature’s abstract sculpture gallery, fitting right in with the Plateau’s artistic sensibility. The trailhead is mid-way between Highlands and Cashiers on U.S. Highway 64. From the Cashiers Crossroads, take 64-W for five miles to a left turn onto Whiteside Mountain Road. From downtown Highlands, take 64-East for six miles to a right turn onto Whiteside Mountain Road. Drive another mile to the trailhead parking lot on the left, and bring cash with you – it’s $2 per car to park, and well worth it.

ADVENTURE OUT

FLY-FISHING: A PROPER PICK BY CHRIS WILKES | HIGHLAND HIKER

What you take home from a fly-fishing trip depends on what you bring to the experience.

ly fishing gives you an excuse to visit some very pretty places and one of the things fly fishermen and women like to do is plan these excursions. A lot of different factors go into planning a successful trip and basing it off of other people’s suggestions is useful, but can lead to some frustration. For one thing, every fishermen has different ideas about what makes the perfect trip. That’s why it’s important to ask yourself some questions when deciding where to go. Where do you want to be hanging out when you’re not fishing? Usually this question gets asked last and that can lead to problems. On most fishing trips, your day is completely built around fishing. But would you rather catch 10 0 fish in 40 degrees? Or catch 50 fish in 75 degrees? There’s no wrong answer, but you have to be honest with yourself as to

what you want. How much of a challenge do you want? I’ve taken trips where you will catch fish if you can get the fly to the water. I’ve also taken trips where I spent all day in a lake trying (unsuccessfully) to catch a trophy-

sized brown trout. Again, no wrong answer but each destination and the guides they employ will have a different default setting as to what makes a successful trip for their clients. Some will be numbers of fish, some will be size, but all will be based on what a majority of their customers want and you need to know that going in. How much solitude do you want? Not surprisingly, a lot of the allure of fly fishing is based upon the fact that usually it’s done in very quiet conditions and not in a crowd. So it makes sense that when planning a flyfishing trip you would want those same conditions. The more people a lodge holds, the more people will be out on the water. Again, the camaraderie can be a plus, but it is something to consider. Best of luck and enjoy the scenery!

2018 Winter Photo Submission by Max Renfro

ADVENTURE OUT

THE SNAPPY WITCH HAZEL BY JEANNIE CHAMBERS | THE ACCIDENTAL GARDENER

There’s nothing spooky about the presence of Witch Hazel in local forests and landscaping.

itch Hazel, Hamamelis Virginiana, blooms in forests from Novia Scotia to Florida, and as far west as eastern Texas. The little yellow flowers can be quite showy from September through November, especially in areas where all leaf color has passed. There’s another species, Hamamelis Mollis , which is known as Chinese Witch Hazel and blooms in spring. Witch Hazel has also been penned “Snapping Hazel” because the seeds of the fruit, a dual pod, explode when it matures, spreading the seed upwards of 25 to 30 feet. Oh, snap is right! The deciduous shrub rarely reaches

60 | March 2019 | Adventure Out

15 feet in height. The name alone connotes visions of witchcraft, but it may derive from a much simpler form of the Middle English word “ wice,” meaning pliable. The branches of the Witch Hazel have been used as divining rods, or dowsing rods, for hundreds of years. When a forked Witch Hazel branch is held lightly, the end dips when water is found underground. The deeper the dip, the deeper the water source. I’ve seen the process, and many a successful well was drilled in our area using a water dowser. Perhaps the term “Water Witch” was meant to describe the tool, not the person holding the instrument.

Native Americans used Witch Hazel for medicinal purposes. Their method of boiling the stems for use as an extract was later used by early American settlers, and led to a formal distillation process still in use today. Although early uses were to treat everything from swelling to tumors, today’s medicinal usage is mostly limited for use as an astringent. If you Google the uses for Witch Hazel, you’ll find some people use as a mouthwash, facial toners, treatment to get rid of the itch from insect bites, treat sunburn, and more. As with any over the counter items, do your own research before using this or any other product.

ADVENTURE OUT

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 61

ADVENTURE OUT

FLYING NORTH BY WILLIAM MCREYNOLDS | MALE PURPLE FINCH (ABOVE) AND FEMALE FINCH (BELOW) PHOTOS BY WILLIAM MCREYNOLDS

The plucky Purple Finch is about to depart the Plateau after a winterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s respite.

ome of our winter residents will soon go north. March is a month of change: In like a lion, it is said, and out like a lamb. Winter begins to turn into spring in March. With that change of seasons, some of our winter avian residents migrate north. Among these departing migrants are the Purple Finches (Haemorhous purpureus). This is surely one of our most beautiful visitors on a gray wintery day. The sight of a male Purple Finch perched on a frozen winter branch quickens the human heart and rouses idle curiosity. How do they sustain themselves in freezing temperatures? Why donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t their feet freeze? The answer is: they are warm-blooded like mammals. To maintain their body temperatures and warmblooded metabolism, they seek calorie-rich and protein-dense seeds and berries. They maximize the insulation provided by their feathers by fluffing themselves and creating air spaces that form a natural down body blanket. They might stand on one foot while tucking the other close to their bodies to warm their toes. Purple Finch, members of the colorful

62 | March 2019 | Adventure Out

finch family, are more red and pink or raspberry than purple. Stockier than the House Finch, they have deeply notched tails, long wings and the males have red plumage on the head and back. The female lacks red plumage but has bold head markings with white bellies marked by coarse dark streaks. Look for her white eyebrow. She is smaller than but very similar to the female Rosebreasted Grosbeak. These are short-distant migrants whose

Eastern subspecies winters widely in the Eastern, Midwestern and Southeastern U.S. Their spring and summer breeding grounds are in southern Canada. Their habitat is coniferous and mixed coniferous and deciduous forests including forest edges, backyards and birdfeeders offering black oil sunflower seeds. Providing a bird feeder helps sustain these and other plucky perchers. They are attracted to black oil sunflower seeds and feed in flocks. Bird feeders and black oil sunflower seeds are available at most home and garden stores including Tractor Supply Co. Bird feeders help sustain our avian populations whose very existence is threatened by climate change, loss of habitat and decrease in insect populations. Happy change of season birding from the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society. The Highlands Plateau Audubon Society, dedicated to enjoying and preserving birds and their habitats, is a Chapter of the National Audubon Society and a 501(c)(3) organization. For information on all our activities and membership, please visit highlandsaudubonsociety.org.

ADVENTURE OUT

BIO-DIVERSITY HOT SPOT BY CHARLOTTE MUIR | HIGHLANDS BIOLOGICAL STATION

The Highlands Biological Foundation supports a host of studies focused on the Plateau’s seldom-seen residents.

he Highlands Biological Foundation annually supports researchers coming to Highlands to further explore our unique biodiversity hot-spot. Over the past 10 years, the Foundation has awarded over $300,000 in grants-in-aid to individuals conducting research here at the Highlands Biological Station. Last summer, nine grants were awarded by the Station’s Board of Scientific Advisors to outstanding applicants studying a variety of topics including salamanders, mice, and climate change. One recipient, Radmila Petric, a PhD student at UNC-Greensboro, has spent the past three summers in Highlands conducting her research on the effect of man-made noise as pollution to deer mice. “Man-made (anthropogenic) noise is a pervasive global pollutant that negatively affects vocal communication in various species,” she says. “Vocal communication is an essential component of animal behavior yet we know relatively little about the impact of

understand the effects of anthropogenic noise on vocal communication, my research focused on freeliving, nocturnal, and vocal rodents; the Deer Mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) and Woodland Jumping Mouse (Napaeozapus insignis). “I live-trapped mice, put radiotransmitters on individuals, recorded their vocalizations and measured their activity level. At night, when the mice were active, I experimentally broadcast noise and natural sounds in the territory of individual mice. To record vocalizations, and monitor movements and activity, I used three remote sensing systems: a microphone array, radiotelemetry tracking equipment, and thermal imaging cameras. My results suggest that in the presence of anthropogenic noise, Deer Mice spend less time foraging, exploring and vocalizing, whereas Woodland Jumping Mice seem more tolerant of the noise.” For more information regarding our grantin aid program, visit highlandsbiological.org or give us a call at (828) 526-2221.

Radmila Petric

audible or ultrasonic (high-frequency sounds that are above human hearing) noise on vocal signals of nocturnal animals. “Rodents play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem by directly and indirectly influencing the abundance and distribution of other species. In order to better

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 63

64 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 65

HISTORY Japanese Beetle

THINGS THAT BUG US BY DONNA RHODES

Over the decades, the forests ringing the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau have withstood waves of hungry invaders.

hile Highlands is a botanical wonderland, bursting with buds, blooms, and colors that defy description, there is an occasional bug in the beauty. Three decades before World War II, an Eastern bomb, so to speak, dropped on America: the Japanese Beetle. It sneaked in on iris bulbs at a New Jersey port in 1912, and by 1932 it locked its jaws on the North Carolina Piedmont, then bore down on the Western North Carolina mountains. It caused more trouble than previous invaders, the Boll Weevil and Mexican Bean Beetle. In the 1950s another army of insects marched in. Balsam Woolly Aphids burrowed into Mount Mitchell’s Fraser Firs. In just seven years the woolly beasts sucked the life out of over a quarter-million trees, leaving weathered, wooden bones to bleach on desecrated peaks. The bugs hit as forests were attempting a comeback from the Chestnut Blight (a fungus, not an insect) of

66 | March 2019 | History

Dogwood and Hemlock trees also took a hit in recent times, the Dogwood from acid rain and the Hemlock from the tiny Woolly Adelgid, the size of the dot of an i. There has been some success in combating bug armies. In the 1990s the Asian Gypsy Moth descended upon the conifers in the Highlands area, but a spray from the air blocked the infestation. The Highlands Biological Station has been instrumental in protecting the Plateau from pests, in ways you might never hear about, but it’s hard at work keeping us green and bad-bug free. Woolly Adelgid To learn more about the things that bug us or things that bring us joy, read Ran the mid 1920s. It’s a wonderful life being a mighty tree, liv- Shaffner’s “Heart of the Blue Ridge,” borrowable at local libraries or purchase-able ing in the Carolina elements, rooted in rich clay, showing its face to the morning sun and through the Highlands Historical Society sweet spring rain. But it’s a perilous life when online at highlandshistory.com or email an army of ravenous, six-legged gluttons de- highlandshistory@nctv.com. The Highlands scends upon it and there’s nowhere to run … Historical Society will be open for visits beginning Memorial Day weekend, or earlier. even if it had limbs to do so.

HISTORY

FIRST TELEPHONES IN CASHIERS BY JANE NARDY | HISTORIAN, CASHIERS HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The arrival of telephones on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau brought a touch of modernity and evidence of a sensational murder.

ater this year, a coffee-table type book will be published by the Cashiers Historical Society titled “Faces & Places of Cashiers Valley.” Scores of folks, headed by Millie Lathan, have been working on this book for quite some time and a month or so ago, the question was asked, “When did the first telephones arrive in Cashiers?” After seeing a lot of estimated dates being offered for the first Cashiers phones, I put on my thinking cap and remembered an article I had written many years ago on this same subject. I had quoted from an August 1973 The State magazine article by Leeming Grimshawe titled “The Wandering Wires of Cashiers Valley.” The two-page article stated that in about 1898, when Grimshawe was a child, some men from Walhalla, South Carolina, who were working on providing a telephone line from South Carolina to Cashiers Valley, visited the Grimshawe home in Whiteside Cove and soon a telephone was put into their house. George M. Cole was the postmaster in Cashiers Valley and the Post Office was in

his store, so the logical place to end the Walhalla-to-Cashiers telephone line was at Cole’s Store. Each phone was one of those hand-cranked affairs run by two dry cell batteries. George Cole’s phone had three long rings and the Grimshawe phone in Whiteside Cove was a short, a long and a short ring. On one occasion, Leeming Grimshawe’s father was talking with George Cole on the phone when they heard pistol shots. Mr. Cole put down the phone but didn’t hang up and

went to see what was happening. He came back with the news that one man had been killed and another severely wounded. This proved to be a feud between the Long family and the Pells, which later had much publicity. I immediately knew that event happened on an August afternoon in 1901 when Evan Pell was shot and killed in front of his store, which is now known as Cornucopia Restaurant. A little over a year ago, I wrote a Laurel Magazine article about Pell’s death titled “1901 Murder of Evan Pell.” There is still no exact date known to prove when the earliest telephone was installed in Cashiers but we do now know that there was a phone in use by August of 1901. The picture accompanying this article shows from left to right, George M. Cole, his daughters Rosa Cole and Kidder Cole and standing in the background, Valincha Cole Zachary, the mother of George Cole and the second wife of Alexander Zachary. The site is the front porch and steps of the George M. Cole house, still standing today.

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 67

HISTORY H e r i ta g e A r t s

THE ART OF SOUTHERN QUILTS BY A.J. STEWART

Liz View

The cherished mountain tradition of quilting is elevated to an artform thanks to practitioners like Liz View of Highlands and Denissa Schulman of Asheville.

alk into the home of someone that has lived on the Plateau all of their lives and I can guarantee you’ll find a beautiful handmade quilt. Chances are, the quilt was made by someone long passed into family history, the quilt becoming an heirloom handed down through the generations. Quilting isn’t a uniquely Appalachian skill, but our foremothers took this utilitarian craft and turned it into an artform. A quilt is made up of three parts: a back, a layer of padding or batting in the middle, and a decorative top. During the 18th and 19th century, quilting was strictly a practical craft. Quilts were used as bed coverings as well as coverings for drafty windows and doors. There are several different quilting styles, but in Appalachia, the patchwork quilt is the most common. Settlers in our remote, mountainous region didn’t let anything go to waste. Anything from scraps of fabric to flour and feed sacks would be pieced together and made into a blanket. When the textile industry rose in the

68 | March 2019 | History

The art of Denissa Schulman

Southeast in the late 19th century, quilters had easier access to large swaths of beautiful fabrics, but the tradition of patchwork quilting continued. As the Industrial Revolution took hold, quilting became less of a necessity and more of an artform. Intricate patterns were, and still are, created by talented quilters. Women would gather for quilting bees to socialize and create entire quilts in just a few hours. The quilts would be given as wedding gifts and housewarming gifts for children as they grew up and moved out on their own. Quilting is just as popular today as it was 100 years ago. Quilters like Liz View of Highlands and Denissa Schulman of Asheville have taken the art to a whole new level with appliques, embroidery and painting. Their stunning works of art have been featured at craft shows across Western North Carolina. For more information on the craft and the artisans, visit The Southern Highland Craft Guild on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville and visit their website at www.southernhighlandguild.org.

HISTORY

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 69

HISTORY

70 | March 2019 | History

HISTORY

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 71

HEALTH

WHEN WORK FEELS LIKE LOVE BY DONNA RHODES

Though she’s new to the Plateau, Dr. Robyn Restrepo’s arrival feels like a homecoming.

ational Doctor’s Day is March 30, a holiday that honors physicians, their service, the communities they work in and with, and humanity’s welfare. There’s no finer spokesperson for our region’s quality healthcare system than Highlands-Cashiers Hospital’s own Robyn Restrepo, MD, a family medicine physician. Having grown up in Waynesville in Western North Carolina and lived 17 years in the Andes Mountains with her husband, it’s no surprise that mountain air nourishes her…body, mind and spirit. Working in small communities is vastly different from a metropolitan setting. Dr. Restrepo says, “What I like about rural medicine is that people express a lot more gratitude. My patients and co-workers are all friends and neighbors, which creates a sense of community.” She sometimes runs into patients in public places. Often they will enthusiastically yell to a comrade, “Hey, that’s my doc!” “That wouldn’t happen in a huge city,”

72 | March 2019 | Health

Dr. Restrepo says, “It’s one of the many ways people show their appreciation for me. Maybe it’s because our hospital has a family feel. I love that. Patients really value that too. “You know you’re in the right line of work when inpatient rehab patients say, ‘I don’t want to go home. I want to stay here and

feel the love.’ That’s high praise.” One of the things that makes Dr. Restrepo’s practice so successful is that she covers the generational ladder, top to bottom. Her patients’ ages range from two weeks to 104 years. Patients take comfort in knowing their doctor will care for them and their families for a lifetime. Having that kind of care continuity is phenomenal and rare, if not impossible, in a big city. Even though some days are long and challenging, it’s easy for Dr. Restrepo to recharge her batteries. All she has to do is look out her window at the beautiful Western North Carolina mountains and experience the serenity they bring. This land and the people in it feel like home and family. That feeling is reflected in her practice as it does in so many other local medical practitioners’ offices, for a small town has big rewards, namely a high priority on caring and healing. For more information about Mission’s practice, plans and programs, call Highlands-Cashiers Hospital at (828) 526-1200.

HEALTH

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 73

HEALTH

ESTROGEN - FRIEND OR FOE? BY DR. SUE AERY | AERY CHIROPRACTIC & ACUPUNCTURE

The incredibly versatile hormone estrogen is vital to the good health of both women and men.

strogen is a very important hormone in the human body, both male and female. In both sexes, hormones are naturally occurring chemical messengers with many different roles. In women, estrogens are the key component of sexual development, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, bone health, mood stabilization, brain and skin health, and so much more. In men, estrogens help to keep the body in balance, mood regulation, control of abdominal fat, healthy libido, urinary tract health and bone density. There is much research to support that we are exposed to many synthetic and exogenous forms of estrogens in our environment, all playing a detrimental role in our natural balance. High levels of estrogen in the bodies of men and women can drive the testosterone levels down, which can further offset the critical balance of hormones in the body. Many products have added estrogens, including lotions, shampoos, and many other beauty products, not to mention many foods and meats are also enhanced with forms of estrogens. Estrogen comes in three forms: estradiol,

74 | March 2019 | Health

estriol and estrone. Each has a specific regulation role in the body. The most prevalent form is estradiol and that is known to decrease in our bodies over time. Menopausal women have a decrease in estrogen and therefore a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia and bone loss. Low estrogen can also contribute to higher testosterone. Both high and low estrogen levels can cause increased abdominal fat in both sexes. In men who are overweight, a hormone called aromatase can convert testosterone to estrogen. Aromatase is a common component in fat and this can become a vicious cycle. This is why, in a surprising twist, injec-

tion and/or oral use of testosterone can often lead to estrogen dominance in men. Remember that hormone balance is a very important function in the body and maintaining this is the key to a healthy, strong and well-functioning body. If we alter the ratios without proper testing and guidance we can set ourselves up for trouble sooner or later in life. There are many good tests to determine hormone levels and also many approaches to balancing hormones through healthy diet, exercise and lifestyle habits. One important food group is the cruciferous family. This includes broccoli, cabbage, kale and cauliflower, among others. These naturally block estrogen production. There is also a supplement called DIMM, which does the same inside the body. It is very important to keep the liver healthy and include a good dose of methyl donors in your supplement list. Most of your B vitamins will serve this purpose well. In any case, be sure to understand that the balance in the body is delicate and the more we do to promote good health through healthy habits, good awareness and natural sources of foods, fiber and whole food vitamins, the healthier we can and will be!

HEALTH

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 75

HEALTH

LET GO AND GROW BY MARY ABRANYI | CASHIERS VALLEY FUSION Through yoga and meditation, Mary has found a sense of peace and positivity in whatever it is she is involved in, from business and community, to family and friends. She and her husband Steve, owner of Green

Mountain Builders, have two young and vibrant children and, in addition to being a long time local Realtor, she is also the owner of Cashiers Valley Fusion, a yoga studio and wellness boutique in Cashiers.

The act of empowerment begins with a liberating gaze inward and an honest examination of your surroundings.

mpowerment is defined as the process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s life and claiming one’s rights. As we come into this world, we each arrive with a story that’s already in play. The story builds from there with the situation of our upbringing dictating the early chapters of our lives but also impacting the future story as we grow into adults. This story is light and cheery for some but for others it can be quite the opposite. Symptoms such as anxiety, depression, guilt, selfdoubt, fear, lack of trust., addiction, over indulgences and more. Obviously, there is not a one-size-fits-all remedy to any of these symptoms, however, the path to empowerment can begin by taking small steps that eventually lead to larger strides and quite possibly into leaps and bounds. One step toward empowerment can be in the process of letting go. Perhaps it’s a

76 | March 2019 | Health

physical or emotional wound, a chaotic environment, or something only known to you. There’s always something we can purge or de-clutter. Treat the process like an onion to which you begin peeling back one layer at a time, beginning with the outermost layers and moving inward from there. Examine the health of your home and workspace. Is it uplifting and organized? Does it make you feel good when you enter? If not, what can you shed from the space that is no longer of use or value? Give the items you keep an organized place to live. Then there are the really big projects like personal or professional relationships. Perhaps it’s time to purge someone and declutter your energy field. Maybe it’s someone that makes you feel insignificant or bad about yourself. It could be someone that continuously leans into doom and gloom. Let them go, or at the very least come up with a plan to limit your time around them.

Another form of letting go is tuning out the external chatter. When is the last time you turned everything off and stepped away from the constant call of the device, the distractions of social media, the chaos of news media, the bombardment of advertisements, and the ever-increasing information overload? Make time each day or each week to disconnect so you can reconnect with yourself. Peeling another layer back and feeling the positive effects you’re creating. Finally, turn inward to the internal chatter of negative self-talk, self-doubt, self-judgment and overall limiting thoughts and let them go. They do not serve you. Let go of bad habits. Forgive yourself. Forgive someone else. Create a safe place to heal and grow, living more fully in the present moment and allowing the past to be a narrative that does not define you but instead lifts you up. Let go and empower yourself!

HEALTH HEALTH

SPICY CARROT SMOOTHIE

Bright, healthy, and such an irresistibly sensual delight â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this Spicy Carrot Smoothie is the epitome of Spring.

he bright carrots remind us of bunnies and Spring. And when the carrots are paired with some warming spices, the resulting drink is not only super-tasty, it also becomes anti-inflammatory. All the ingredients in the spicy carrot smoothie are healing and helpful. Carrot is full of Vitamin A, and A is a proven vision booster. Banana is packed in potassium, and can lower blood pressure. Ginger is a stomach soother, an immune booster, and it also aids digestion. Pineapple is full of Vitamin C, anti-inflammatory, aids digestion. Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory, is antioxidant-rich, and can lower cholesterol. Lemon is full of is full of Vitamin C and antioxidants. Spicy Carrot Smoothie Ingredients: 3/4 cup Carrot Juice 1 Tbsp Lemon Juice 1 cup Unsweetened Almond Milk 1 large Ripe Banana, frozen 1 cup Pineapple, frozen 1/2 Tbsp Fresh Ginger, grated 1/2 tsp Ground Turmeric Directions: Blend all ingredients until smooth. Add more Carrot Juice or Almond Milk if the mixture is too thick.

BY DR. ANASTASIA HALLDIN | HEALTHYMAMAINFO.COM Organic elderberry syrup and loose tea available locally

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 77

HEALTH

78 | March 2019 | Health

HEALTH

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 79

HOMES AND LIFESTYLES

THIS IS THE VIEW BY A.J. STEWART

This expansive mountain retreat is the gateway to gracious living.

f you’re looking for the view to end all views, this is it. This is The View. Located just five miles from Highlands, on the Atlanta side, the back deck of this two-story home looks out over Blue Valley. At 4,20 0 feet, the lights of Seneca and Clemson, South Carolina flicker on the distant horizon. The protected view can even be opened up a little more with just a little tree trimming, taking in Rabun Bald, one of Georgia’s tallest peaks. The elevation also means the temperature can be up to 15 degrees cooler than Atlanta or even the nearby North Georgia lake communities. Spend the cool summer evenings, wine glass in hand, watching the thunderstorms roll across the landscape. This large-living three-bedroom, three-

80 | March 2019 | Homes and Lifestyles

and-a-half bath home is situated on more than 10 acres of private mountain estate. Additional acreage is separately available with two adjacent parcels, to create an estate of nearly 60 acres. This property can be perfect for the weekend equestrian, featuring an old horse stable ready to be fixed up for new inhabitants. Ride for miles through scenic mountain trails and gravel roads without ever touching pavement. The main living area is an open floor plan with a Chef’s Kitchen, Dining and Living Room. The Master Bedroom, Powder Room and Laundry Room are also on the main floor. Downstairs you’ll find another Bedroom and a Family Living Area, which could easily be converted into a larger Bedroom. The home also features

a spacious separate Guest Suite with a private entry. Owned for more than 25 years by the current owners, the home was recently remodeled, including wood ceilings and a new master bath with heated floors and towel racks as well as unseen infrastructure improvements. The back deck is an excellent outdoor living space, featuring a hot tub that opens to the Laundry Room that leads easily into the Master Bedroom. There is also a two-car Garage with plenty of storage. And if anyone ever desires, an elevator could easily be installed for more accessibility. To learn more about this home, contact Bert Mobley at Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty at (828) 526-830 0 or (828) 20 0 - 0846 or visit highlandssir.com.

HOMES AND LIFESTYLES

ROTH VS. TRADITIONAL 401(K): WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU? BY MARY BETH BRODY| EDWARD JONES FINANCIAL ADVISOR

or many years, employees of companies that offered 401(k) plans only faced a couple of key decisions – how much to contribute and how to allocate their dollars among the various investment options in their plan. But in recent years, a third choice has emerged: the traditional versus Roth 401(k). Which is right for you? To begin with, you need to understand the key difference between the two types of 401(k) plans. When you invest in a traditional 401(k), you put in pre-tax dollars, so the more you contribute, the lower your taxable income. Your contributions and earnings grow tax-deferred until you begin taking withdrawals, which will be taxed at your ordinary tax rate. With a Roth 401(k), the situation is essentially reversed. You contribute after-tax dollars, so you won’t lower your taxable income, but withdrawals of contributions and earnings are taxfree at age 59-1/2, as long as you’ve held the account at least five years. So, now that you’ve got the basics of the two types of 401(k) plans, which should you choose? There’s no one right answer for ev-

eryone. You essentially need to ask yourself these questions: When do you want to pay taxes? And what will your tax rate be in the future? If you’re just starting out in your career, and you’re in a relatively low income tax bracket, but you think you might be in a higher one when you retire, you might want to consider the Roth 401(k). You’ll be paying taxes now on the money you earn and contribute to your Roth account, but you’ll avoid being taxed at the higher rate when you start taking withdrawals. Conversely, if you think your tax rate will be lower when you retire, you might be more inclined to go with the traditional 401(k), which allows you to avoid paying taxes on your contributions now, when your tax rate is high. Of course, you can see the obvious problem with these choices – specifically, how can you know with any certainty if your tax bracket will be lower or higher when you retire? Many people automatically assume that once they stop working, their tax liabilities will drop, but that’s not always the case. Given their sources

of retirement income from investment accounts and Social Security, many people see no drop in their tax bracket once they retire. Since you can’t see into the future, your best move might be to split the difference, so to speak. Although not all businesses offer the Roth 401(k) option, many of those that do will allow employees to divide their contributions between the Roth and traditional accounts. If you chose this route, you could enjoy the benefits of both, but you still can’t exceed the total annual 401(k) contribution limit, which for 2019 is $19,0 0 0, or $25,0 0 0 if you’re 50 or older. You may want to consult with your tax advisor before making any decisions about a Roth or traditional 401(k) – or Roth and traditional 401(k) – but in the final analysis, these are positive choices to make, because a 401(k), in whatever form, is a great way to save for retirement. Try to take full advantage of it. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 81

HOMES AND LIFESTYLES

PACKING WORDS BY DONNA RHODES | ILLUSTRATION BY NORMA JEAN ZAHNER

If you’re reading this over brunch, put down the spork and look around, portmanteaus are everywhere. We’ll let Donna mansplain to you.

ou’ve probably portmanteau’d and didn’t even know it. Originally a portmanteau was a trunk or large suitcase divided into two parts. Over time it came to mean the packing together of two words to create a new linguistic expression, such as breathalyzer (breath + analyzer), blog (web + log), bodacious (bold + audacious), and chocoholic (chocolate + alcoholic). Lewis Caroll, in his novel, Through the Looking Glass, concocted the first literary portmanteaus in the poem “Jabberwocky”, among them, slithy (lithe + slimy) and mimsy (flimsy + miserable).

82 | March 2019 | Homes and Lifestyles

Since then many portmanteaus have made their way to everyday language: Medicare (medical + care); motel (motor + hotel); sitcom (situation + comedy); and hangry (hungry + angry). My personal fave is flexitarian (vegetarian + flexible). I eat mostly veggies, poultry, and fish. Occasionally a four-legger will find its way to my plate. I’m not proud of it. Shippens (shift + happens). But flexie as I am, I won’t succumb to Frankenfood (Frankenstein + food). I avoid anything GMO along with most imported food (you don’t know how many fleepings [floor + sweepings] and pigstrils [pig + nostrils] find their way into that

stuff). The unpronounceable chemicals and fillers that pass for food these days are ridonkulous (ridiculous + donkey). If you enjoy portmanteaus, start 2019 with a lexicon of your own word inventions. Word-smoosh yourself silly. Be careful though. Nothing too snarky (snide + remark). We don’t want to make a frenemy (friend + enemy). Chillax (chill + relax) and savor fond meme-ories (meme + memory). If you join the challenge and win, you’ll receive tickets to the ballet, and I’ll dress you in a portmanteau-teau with a tee emblazoned: Slanguage Rules. You have my word on it.

HOMES AND LIFESTYLES

THE VILLAGE GREENS UP BY ANN SELF | THE VILLAGE GREEN

With the addition of a Commons Building, The Village Green will become even more vital to the life and happiness of Cashiers.

he Village Green is Cashiers’ community treasure, with its expansive green areas and gardens, numerous sculptures, woodland and wetland trails, an extensive children’s playground and frequent public music and other events. Thousands of residents and visitors enjoy our gem year round. Whether attending Groovin’ on the Green or a nature program, enjoying the playground with a child or grandchild or simply walking with a friend, everyone has a reason why they love the Village Green. For more than 25 years, the area has benefited from this beautiful, unique, free, public, gathering space in the heart of Cashiers. In recent years, the Board of Directors of The Village Green recognized the need for a facility to house indoor public gather-

ings and conceived the idea of an “event” building. The Commons Building will extend not only the “season” of The Village Green but also further its mission to preserve the wonderful quality of life and sense of com-

munity in Cashiers. This facility will provide greatly needed space for additional civic, spiritual, cultural and educational activities. Its uses and potential would be numerous and varied. Construction of the indoor Commons Building is a community endeavor. During March, the public is invited to join in special events as the timber frame is raised for the new facility. You can also purchase a peg or a piece of the frame to help raise this exciting vision for Cashiers. A donation to Raise the Vision for Cashiers is an investment in the legacy of the community. If you’d like to know more about becoming involved, email The Village Green at info@villagegreencashiersnc.com or call (828) 743-3434. For more information about The Village Green, including a calendar of events, visit villagegreencashiersnc.com.

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 83

HOMES AND LIFESTYLES Au t h o r S p ot l i g ht David Schulman

THE PAST IS NEVER DEAD BY A.J. STEWART

The mystery at the heart of David Schulman’s “The Past is Never Dead” lies at the intersection of the glamour and grit of Old Asheville.

hen the rainy weather keeps you inside, there’s nothing better to do than to curl up on the couch with a good book. Western North Carolina is home to some amazing writers. From poetry to fantasy and science fiction, there’s no shortage of stories based in our little corner of Appalachia. For those of you that love a good mystery, pick up a copy of “The Past is Never Dead: An Asheville Mystery” by David Schulman. Gritz Goldberg is a middle-aged psychiatrist with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and a life that’s falling apart. His office is the same one used by Zelda Fitzgerald’s therapist at the Highland Mental Hospital so many decades before. Haunted by Zelda’s

ghost, Gritz tries to regain some semblance of control in his life. An old family friend resurfaces and Gritz finds himself tracking down the truth about the wrongful execution of Mordecai Moore that took place in the Battery Park Hotel in 1939. When Gritz is accused of murdering a woman from the Happy Valley Retirement Community, Gritz has to race against the clock to prove his own innocence as well as Mordecai’s. “The Past is Never Dead” is full of rich, colorful characters and explores the fascinating history of Asheville’s most iconic hotel as well as the heritage of Asheville’s Jewish and Black communities. David, a Sylva native, and his wife Denissa currently live in Asheville. After a 20 -year career in retailing in WNC, David

moved into commercial real estate investing in 1991, which gave him more time to explore his passion for writing. Writing runs deep in the Schulman family. His cousin, Arnold Schulman, an award-winning screenplay writer, portrayed the Schulman family in the 1959 Frank Capra film, “A Hole in the Head.” He attended the University of Iowa and received his BA in Liberal Studies when he was 50. Now 70, David is working on his latest novel, tentatively titled “The Late Gatsby.” “The Late Gatsby” further delves into the history of F. Scott Fitzgerald and his wife Zelda during their stay in Asheville in the late 1930’s, when Zelda was hospitalized at the Highland Hospital where she later died in a tragic fire.

For more information about the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, visit thelaurelmagazine.com

84 | March 2019 | Homes and Lifestyles

HOMES AND LIFESTYLES

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 85

SERVICE SERVICE DIRECTORY DIRECTORY

ACCOMMODATIONS

BEAUTY

CABINET DESIGN

CLEANING

CONCIERGE

CONSTRUCTION

HOME DECOR

ROOFING

86 86 | | March March 2019 2019 | | Service Service Directory Directory

SERVICE DIRECTORY

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 87

GIVING BACK

100 PLACES PRESERVED–FOREVER! BY JULIE SCHOTT | HIGHLANDS-CASHIERS LAND TRUST

100 unique and wonderful places are preserved – forever, thanks to a generous community and the members of the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust.

treams, trails, forests, farms, wetlands, and rare mountaintop habitats come together in a perfect storm to make the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau a unique landscape. While this area is revered for its rich diversity of plants and wildlife, mild climate and breathtaking vistas, we must be aware of its fragility and work together to care for it. Thankfully, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, a nationally-accredited non-profit land conservation organization, has been preserving the health and character of our mountain home for over a century. Last year was a banner year for land protection here. Thanks to the support of many friends and members, HCLT was able to conserve rare habitat, wetlands and views in six new places, bringing the total number of conserved properties to 3,230 acres in 10 0 places! HCLT protected properties range from the upper Nan-

88 | March 2019 | Giving Back

tahala River to the mountains overlooking Sylva to the rim of Panthertown Valley in the Chattooga River. Here are our newest protected places: The Hartman’s gave their portion of Sunset Rock, expanding the HCLT owned Ravenel Park and protecting a larger portion of this exquisite treasure. Sassafras Gap Farm is a 22-acre property donated by Stell Huie on the edge of Blue Valley that has a stunning view of Satulah Mountain. Castor Meadows is a small old farm in the Glenville community, donated by John Berteau with rare habitats that include beaver wetlands and early successional habitat. Dendy Orchard Knob is a small conservation easement donated by Ken Nimmons buffering Nantahala National Forest in the Turtle Pond community. Cedar Hill is a conservation easement

buffering High Hampton on Rock Mountain and overlooking Sapphire Valley. High Knob is a 150 -acre conservation easement donated by Patrick Horan and Noel Thurner near Caney Fork and protected in partnership with the Open Space Institute. It protects a climateresilient landscape that provides critical habitat for plants and animals as climatic changes happen and connects to a large swath of other protected lands in the Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests. Several rare and endangered species call this property home. Indeed, we have been able to preserve many of our most treasured lands but more work needs to be done to preserve our last great places. To learn more, write to us at info.hitrust@earthlink.net, call (828) 5261111 or visit hicashlt.org. Together we are saving the places we all love and need.

GIVING BACK

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 89

GIVING BACK

CHHS Assistant Manager Jodi Henkel gets a thank-you kiss from Piper at the scene of the rescue.

CHHS TO THE RESCUE BY DAVID STROUD | CASHIERS-HIGHLANDS HUMANE SOCIETY

The Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society has given a quartet of desperate German Shepherds a new leash on life.

orrific. Cruel. Inhumane. Those words do not even begin to describe the conditions we discovered this past January when the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society Animal Rescue Team was deployed to a puppy mill raid in Candler County, Georgia. Working in conjunction with the Humane Society of the United States and Atlanta Humane Society, CHHS rescued four young adult German Shepherds and brought them to safe refuge to the mountains of western North Carolina. This was a large-scale coordinated rescue of hundreds of German Shepherds, and animal welfare agencies from New York to Florida banded together to save the lives of these brave canine survivors living in filth and squalor. As with every rescue we do, there were significant medical issues to address, and behavioral issues as well. But with dogs like these, who came from a puppy mill and had been raised with no purpose in life other than to generate more money-making off-

90 | March 2019 | Giving Back

spring for an inhumane breeder, the most important challenge we had was to teach them what it meant to be a dog. How much fun it can be to romp and play. To engage with a human with a toy, a treat. To hear kind words, a soothing voice, a soft touch. CHHS did not spare any expense to bring these beautiful canines back to a picture

of perfect health. The German Shepherds we rescued ended up spending nearly a month at our shelter for some muchneeded rest and rehab, and all of them found loving, forever homes with awesome responsible animal lovers. Of the estimated 14,000 animal shelters and rescue groups nationwide, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society is one of only 350 participants who have qualified to be in the HSUS Shelter and Rescue Partners Program. Established in 1987, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, no-kill animal shelter 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. For more information, visit us online at CHhumanesociety.org or call CHHS at (828) 7435752. Tax-deductible donations to support our lifesaving work can be mailed to: CHHS, P.O. Box 638, Cashiers, NC 28717.

GIVING BACK

THE STORY CONTINUES BY SUE BLAIR | CARPE DIEM FARMS

Despite an indomitable spirit and a series of surgeries, Battersea Tracy relies upon a small army of volunteers and well-wishers for her recovery.

not have to remove any more of the bone, only the rogue tissue and the further original tissue affected by the infection. There is only one-half of the internal structure of the hoof now so we have a long way to go. We continue to be blessed by all who are helping. Have joined our Facebook team of prayer warriors and followers watching our daily updates? If you’d like to be a part of the onsite team, please come out to the farm. Tracy now wants to be out with her herd and that will continue to be impossible for many more months. We must keep her comfortable and active, giving her PEMF treatments, massage, light therapy, and grooming. We welcome volunteers and will teach you everything you need to know. Carpe Diem Farms is a 501(c)(3) educational foundation. Please call (828) 5262854 if you would like to be on Team Tracy!

hile you were reading our story in the Winter Issue of Laurel about our magnificent horse, Battersea Tracy, who had two hoof surgeries performed by Dr. Ric Redden of Versailles, Kentucky, her third operation was occurring! Two weeks after the surgery Doc Redden was back and administered a venogram of the hoof (injecting dye into the veins in the foot to see what is happening via x-rays). The infection had traveled from the lateral side where the ablation had occurred, around the toe and attacked the medial interior of the hoof, where Doc had done the two surgeries. It caused more infection in that area. The foot had grown all new tissue above the infection to fill the void and it all had to be removed plus more. Doc told us that Mother Nature had made this “lollipop tissue” grow so that the hoof would not close up. We were lucky this time and did Battersea Tracy

Greg Yonchak

CONGRATULATIONS GREG! Greg Yonchak was the first to find the Swallowtail Butterfly hidden in the Laurel Winter issue and the winner of a $50 Gift Certificate to Fresser’s Eatery! To be the next winner, locate the butterfly in this issue and be the first to log onto thelaurelmagazine.com and click on the Swallowtail!

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 91

GIVING BACK

92 | March 2019 | Giving Back

GIVING BACK

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 93

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

YOUR ACTIVE CASHIERS CHAMBER BY STEPHANIE EDWARDS | CASHIERS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce maintains a full slate of initiatives and a complete calendar of events, all for the purpose of building a bright future for the community.

018 was another busy year for the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce, representing more than 425 businesses, non-profit organizations and individuals across the Plateau. The business league’s core purpose is to provide extraordinary Leadership as an Advocate for Business, Information Source for the Community and Conduit for building destination awareness and responsible growth. Cashiers is an unincorporated village without town government, so the Chamber works closely with Jackson County to protect and enhance the local quality of life. It finances destination branding such as welcome signs for Cashiers and Glenville and the Crossroads Community Banner Stand. It recently paid more than $4,000 for a topographical survey needed to engineer a core sidewalk system, and works closely with the Tuckaseigee Water & Sewer Authority on water

94 | March 2019 | Business Spotlight

resource issues critical to growth. This year it founded the Cashiers Area Legacy Fund, a 501(c)(3) charity to support local public works projects. Its economic development strategic initiatives include workforce development, pedestrian mobility and safety, broadband connectivity and community engagement. The Chamber created and maintains CashiersAreaJobs.com, an online jobs board with regional advertising to recruit workers to the Plateau. It hosts annual job fairs and regional summits to expand the employee base and ensure adequate housing, training and retention of workers. The Chamber operates the Jackson County Visitor Center at Cashiers and is actively involved in the county’s tourism development authority to develop marketing strategies and ensure a quality visitor experience. It maintains information kiosks throughout the area featuring maps, waterfalls and at-

tractions. It publishes the popular “Cashiers Area Visitor Guide & Membership Directory” and the” Cashiers Area Shopping & Dining Guide,” available at CashiersAreaChamber. com, which also features timely news and announcements. As an important community information source, the Chamber launched and maintains Cashiers411.com, a comprehensive online community calendar. Non-profits and member businesses are invited to submit event information for promotion and use the Chamber Office as a convenient ticket outlet for charity events. Business advocacy and promotion remain the priority focus of the Chamber, and throughout the year members enjoy exclusive benefits, referrals, celebrations, recognitions, events, legislative updates, publicity, networking opportunities and other support. To join, or for more information, visit CashiersAreaChamber.com or call (828) 743-5191.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

FREE BUSINESS CLASSES BY DONNA RHODES

A series of free workshops will help local businesspeople sharpen their skills.

ighlands Chamber of ComTiffany Henry merce and Southwestern Community College have joined ranks for an open Business Education Series. Whether your business is merely a plan on paper or a highly successful enterprise, the “Succession Planning for Your Biz” workshop, set for March 27th, has a space waiting for you. Learn how to build a management talent pool, creating and growing feeder groups up and down the leadership pipeline so that qualified personnel are trained and ready to step into positions as they become available. You’ll discover helpful tips on how to stay one step ahead of future unknowns … not to mention the competition. each month from 8:30 to 10:00 A.M. at the In addition to Succession Planning, conHighlands Civic Center. It’s open to anysider these further offerings: “Grow Your Small one in the community (Chamber member Biz with Excellent Customer Service,” April 24; or not) who is interested in ramping up their “Life/Work Balance for Biz Owner,” May 20; business skills. and “What Can CRM (Customer Relationship Highlands Chamber President Bob Management) Do for Your Biz?,” June 26. Kieltyka is enthusiastic about this new Registration is free and required and community outreach. classes will be held the last Wednesday of He says, “We are very excited to be part-

nering with Southwestern Community College Small Business Center. Director Tiffany Henry has done a remarkable job in expanding the offerings at the center and now it’s time for us to take advantage of all that is available through this quality resource.” Ms. Henry adds, “This series of seminars is a great example of strong partnerships working together for the greater good of our community. The Small Business Center is a great statewide resource, and more and more people are realizing how extensive and supportive it truly is. Our mission is to help people start, grow, and sustain their small businesses. From confidential one-on-one counseling to seminars and training such as these, our services are available at no-cost. We’re so excited to be a part of this series and looking forward to continuing to support the Highlands area and it’s business owners.” For more information about this and other exciting 2019 programs visit bit.ly/HighlandsSBC, call the Chamber/Visitors Center at (828) 526-2112 or Ms. Henry at (828) 339-4426.

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 95

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Janet Cummings and Sarah Fielding

MAKING MARKETING MAGIC HAPPEN BY DONNA RHODES

For Sarah Fielding, it’s a homecoming. For The Laurel, it’s the opening of entirely new vistas.

t’s no secret that The Laurel has been Western Carolina’s visitors’ and residents’ go-to information source for almost two decades. In the spirit of staying on top of the latest publication advances, the magazine is about to get even more beautiful, more entertaining, more friendly, and, best of all, more technologically savvy. Thanks to our new staff addition, Sarah Fielding, sales and marketing will leap into its third decade of outstanding service with a new face and new ideas. Sarah comes to us from Clayton, but her true beginnings were on the Plateau …for

96 | March 2019 | Business Spotlight

she is family – the daughter of Janet Cummings, Laurel ’s Managing Partner and Guy Fielding. She doesn’t just know the area, its people, its businesses. She’s an integral part of it since birth. When her career and a Laurel position serendipitously opened up, timing was perfect. Janet says, “With the addition of the Laurel Social Butterfly Campaign, we’re looking to up our game in customer service. Sarah will be tasked with adding clients, expanding and developing new territory, and making her own special magic happen. That magic is rooted in her win-

ning smile, her exceptional people skills, and her talent and willingness to craft winwin opportunities for everyone. Sarah says, “I’m really looking forward to being out in the community where I grew up. I feel comfortable and at home. I watched The Laurel grow from a tiny seed, establish roots, and blossom into a fabulous regional resource. I’m honored to bring a new, young voice to an already award-winning mix.” To advertise your business in The Laurel , or just to wish her well, you can contact Sarah at sarah@thelaurelmagazine.com or (706) 490 - 9012.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

GIVE YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA WINGS The Laurel’s Social Butterfly Media Team promises to give clients a bright, carefully-calibrated message across the Plateau and around the world.

ntroducing the Laurel Social Butterfly Media Team! Donna Rymer The Laurel Magazine’s new social media marketing team is passionate about elevating results – with our clients, within our four walls, and with our community. As our digital marketing capabilities expand to include social media, we’re excited to announce that we have partnered with Social Media Marketing Strategist Donna Rymer of Channelside Advertising. Social media is a process that can be confusing and overwhelming. Our job is to take the stress out of managing the social media for your business and help you grow your platform and increase your reach. We will work with you to create a custom strategy, social media content based on your business goals, and manage the posting and reporting for you. “I’m so excited to be working with businesses, but also for their caring repreThe Laurel to bring social media market- sentation of the Plateau at its very best,” ing to their clients. They have such a won- says Donna. derful reputation for not only helping local Donna has been working in the advertis-

ing and marketing industry her entire career. She has valuable experience as an app developer, advertising art director, web developer and business owner. She has worked with a variety of industries to generate leads, reach a wider audience and track success – improving results for their websites, social media marketing and Search Engine Optimization. “It was pure kismet meeting Donna!” says Marjorie Christiansen, Managing Partner of The Laurel . “Her deep knowledge of, and experience with, Social Media Marketing will help local businesses change impulsive postings to strategic, targeted and, most importantly, successful campaigns. We believe we are partners with our advertisers in their success and we know that a well-thought out marketing mix is the best ROI for them.” If you’re interested in exploring these social media management services, contact Marjorie, Janet or Sarah at The Laurel Magazine at info@thelaurelmagazine.com or (828) 526 - 0173.

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 97

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

“TAKE THE WATERS” FROM MOUNTAINSPRING BY JOHN SHIVERS

MountainSpring Spas and Pools’ three decades of service and commitment have earned it an unparalleled reputation for reliability.

here once was a time when hot tubs and the rushing waters they contained were sought after by only a distinct group of people. Some would have called them hippies. But that was then, and this is now, when both million dollar homes and the homes of the middle class have something that falls under the broad heading of a hot tub or spa. And this holds true most especially for mountain homes, where sometimes the tub literally straddles the line between summer and winter, inside and outside. Thanks to the practicality and portability of today’s tubs, even renters can enjoy the benefits, and take them to their next apartment as well. Nowhere has the enthusiasm of the hot tub fan club become more heated than in the counties in Georgia and North Carolina surrounding Franklin in Macon County. It’s there that MountainSpring Spas and Pools has been selling, installing, servicing and ultimately replacing these founts of relaxation for 30 years. Their many repeat customers tell the tale. The earliest hot tubs were the collapsed mouths of volcanoes into which hot stones were placed to heat the water. Fast-forward to the 19th and 20th centuries, and locations in this country where natural hot

98 | March 2019 | Business Spotlight

springs existed became destinations for the wealthy and the infirm, who traveled there in order to “take the waters.” Managers of those springs heavily promoted the healing qualities of their often minerallaced hot water. While the statistics didn’t always support those advertising claims, it has since been proven that they were actually on to something. In addition to the recreational and pleasurable aspects of a home spa setting, there are also very real health benefits. One of the biggest payoffs is the relief afforded to muscle tension, headaches, fatigue and soreness. Soaking in the hot and frothy waters can minimize the pain of arthritis. Studies have shown that spa treatment can lower diabetic sugar levels, and promotes weight loss, and lowers blood pressure. And at the end of the day, spa activities aids in sleeping more soundly. In its most basic form, a hot tub is a large tub or small pool full of water used for hydrotherapy, relaxation or pleasure. Or all three. Some have powerful jets for massage purposes, and hot tubs are sometimes also known as spas. It wasn’t until the 1940s, in the wake of World War II as America began to rebuild and expand its horizons, that individual hot tubs began to appear on the landscape.

Those first tubs were wooden, and over time, tended to deteriorate and leak. Fiberglass shell tubs came onto the scene around 1970, and were soon superseded by cast acrylic shells. Where the first tubs basically offered only swirling hot waters, as time went on, jets were added, and seats were installed to make hot tub use a group event. These tubs are often located outdoors, and enjoyment of the warm waters when the ground is snowy all around is a treat unto itself. MountainSpring Spas and Pools is a dealer for HotSpring Portable Spas and Free Flow Spas, which offer a wide range of tub options as well as accessories for all models. Their store is located at 611 Highlands Road in Franklin. Their phone number is (828) 369-2871. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. and on Saturday from 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. This year, MountainSpring Spas and Pools celebrates 30 years in business. They have put all of their 2018 models on sale to make room for incoming 2019 models. They invite you in to explore the possibilities. MountainSpring Spas and Pools appreciates the community support that they have enjoyed over three decades and this alone speaks volumes about their reputation and the quality of their products.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

DELICIOUS BOOSTS BY AJ STEWART

Besides being a delicious experience and lots of fun, the Highlands Food and Wine Festival is a boost to the local economy.

ast November, Highlands hosted its annual Food and Wine Festival. Staged at multiple venues throughout Highlands over the course of four days, the festival celebrates the culture and unique beauty of the Blue Ridge mountains through food, wine and music. This uniquely intimate experience creates a positive economic impact on all aspects of life in Highlands. It brings increased revenue to local businesses, a great boost in tourism and much-needed support for local charities. According to 2018 festival data, the festival itself spent $35,000 in Highlands for things such as event amenities and vendors. In addition to the revenue from the event itself, the Town of Highlands also benefited from the high-net worth visitors that came to stay, eat and shop in Highlands over the long weekend. Nearly 3,000 visitors, more than half of whom have an average household income of $200,000 or more, came in from 20 different states to experience the festival. Nearly 80 percent of festival stakeholders reported an increase in sales during the long festival weekend compared to other weekends in November. More than 80 percent of festival attendees spent $200 or more

in local businesses, while 28 percent spent $30 0 or more. Retailers such as Bardo and TJ Bailey’s for Men reported a 30 percent increase in sales compared to the same weekend in 2017. The Highland Hiker’s revenue has increased by 70 percent since 2016. A vast majority of festival ticket-holders own homes in the Highlands area, but the festival also saw an increase in lodging and accommodation revenue. More than 21 percent of ticket-holders stayed in rental homes, while 17 percent made reservations at hotels and inns. A high percentage of these attendees were first time visitors to Highlands, creating the promise of increased repeat business in the future. All of this combines to create an increase in the “brand awareness” of the Town of Highlands. The festival has a combined social media audience of over 10,0 0 0 followers. Over 79,0 0 0 people saw or engaged with social media posts and photos about the Highlands Food & Wine Festival before, during, and after the event. The 2019 festival is scheduled for November 7-10. See highlandsfoodandwine.com. for ticket, lineup and event information.

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 99

BETH TOWNSEND Owner / Broker

LIZ HARRIS Owner / Broker

COLEEN GOTTLOEB Broker-In-Charge

MERRY SOELLNER Broker Associate

PAUL COLLINS Broker Associate

KEVEN HAWKINS Broker Associate

STEVE HODGE President

ANN McKEE AUSTIN Owner / Broker

SANDY & JOHN BARROW Sales & Listing Team / Broker Associates

PHILIP BRADLEY Broker Associate

WAYNE MONDAY Broker Associate

REPRESENTING THE BUYERS AND SELLERS OF PREMIER PROPERTIES IN THE CASHIERS & HIGHLANDS AREA FOR OVER 40 YEARS. McKeeProperties.com 100 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com

THE KEY TO D ISCO VER ING YO UR OW N M OUNTAIN L IF EST Y L E. LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC MINNIE COLE HOUSE 619 Highway 107 South

Cashiers, NC 28717 /

828.743.3411

McKeeProperties.com

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 101

LU X U RY E S TAT E

$2,5 0 0,0 0 0

Located in the heart of Sapphire Valley, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find this unusual opportunity to own considerable acreage (46.22 acres) with a main home and guest home perfectly sited to enjoy privacy, quiet, ponds, waterfalls, streams and mountain views! Both homes have quality finishes that will not disappoint, and the location allows for convenient access to all areas of our plateau. MLS# 86761

M A J E S T I C & C O N T E M P O R A RY

$2, 375,0 0 0

Prepare to be amazed by panoramic mountain views and loads of natural light when you step into this magnificent estate home in Wade Hampton Golf Club. A+ finishes are found throughout the home, and can be enjoyed seasonally or year round. 4BR/4.5BA for all your family and friends! MLS# 87645

McKeeProperties.com T H E K E Y TO D I S C O V E R I N G YO U R O W N M O U N TA I N L I F E S T Y L E

102 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com

HIGH HEMLOCK

M O U N TA I N S T Y L E

$ 875,0 0 0 0

$73 9,0 0 0

Charming cape cod style home boasting high elevation, trout pond frontage and year round mountain views to be enjoyed from spacious decks and screened porch. Family-sized living room with stone fireplace and cathedral ceilings, library with fireplace. MLS# 86728

Outstanding views available year round from this well-built mountain home. Open floor plan living, dining and kitchen keep everyone having fun at the party. Large master suite provides plenty of clothing storage, gas fireplace and the fabulous view. MLS# 89049

VIEW HOME

VIEW FOR MILES

$ 49 9,0 0 0

This well-built home is newer construction, and just perfect for year round or vacation living. Lots of storage for all your treasures, and plenty of room to spread out and relax. Open floor plan and split bedrooms for master privacy, all one level! Very pretty mountain view, too! MLS# 88798

Amazing, long-range panoramic mountain views are available from this very well-maintained home in Bee Tree Ridge. Comfortable and charming, the home boasts 7 acres, end-of-cul-de-sac privacy and terrific outdoor spaces. MLS# 87792

CA B I N W I T H A V I E W !

SOOTHING WATER VIE WS

$ 4 07,518

Inviting newer construction home exhibits rustic appeal, convenient location and a mountain view! Septic is permitted for 2BR, but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s abundance of sleeping space. Floor to ceiling stone gas log fireplace. Kitchen has stainless appliances and custom cabinetry. MLS# 89102

MERRY SOELLNER 828.399.1580 (c) merry@cashiers.com

$ 378,0 0 0

Sweet cottage enjoys views of Lake Lupton and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be able to walk to the newly renovated club. Pretty wood interiors and spacious decks. Live on one level, with guest accommodations on the upper floor. Additional office and bath over the carport. MLS# 89998

McKeeProperties.com 619 Highway 107 South OFFICE: 828.743.3411

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 103

Y E L LOW M O U N TA I N

$6,950,0 0 0

Cashiers/Highlands finest estate opportunity minutes from Mountaintop Golf Club, Old Edwards Club, Cashiers and Highlands. Centrally located between Cashiers and Highlands in beautiful western North Carolina, Yellow Mountain Preserve boasts the highest elevation on the Cashiers-Highlands Plateau at 5,100 feet and is a true legacy property. The 150 acre estate has roads and utilities in place for a low density estate development or can be enjoyed as a single family or shared family estate. The estate adjoins 12,000 acres of the Nantahala National Forest. A 26-acre gentlemanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s farm site sits at 4,600 feet and provides a peaceful 360 degree view of the surrounding mountains. The 360 degree stunning panoramic views from there include Cashiers Valley, Whiteside Mountain, Lake Glenville, and Sapphire Valley. All the views and natural surroundings combined with electronic access through a stoned entry, a paved road, high speed internet access and full cell phone coverage makes Yellow Mountain Preserve an exceptional and unique piece of the Blue Ridge Mountains. MLS# 85322

MILLIMA RANCH

$ 4,9 0 0,0 0 0

400 acres of pristine land including an 8-mile network of trails. Well-built road system, underground power and water on 272 acres running to a selection of estate home sites. Moonshine Cabin is a lovely 3BR/3.5BA log home nestled perfectly in a cove by the creek and looks out over the valley towards ranges of beautiful mountains. Several outbuildings including barn, equipment storage and camping platforms overlooking peaceful views. MLS# 89678

McKeeProperties.com T H E K E Y TO D I S C O V E R I N G YO U R O W N M O U N TA I N L I F E S T Y L E

104 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com

WA D E H A M P T O N G O L F C LU B

$2,9 9 5,0 0 0

This 5-bedroom, 7.5-bath mountain estate surrounded by mature landscaping offers beautiful golf course views and a luscious setting. The interior is bathed in warm tones of rich pine floors and clear pine vertical paneling. The great room has a vaulted ceiling with massive post and beam trusses and two stone fireplaces, opens onto two porches. Main level offers a spacious master bedroom suite, plus two guest bedroom suites. Lower level family room, two guest bedrooms. MLS# 88820

WA D E H A M P T O N G O L F C LU B

$2,75 0,0 0 0

This magnificent home is located on the 7th tee of the course. The interior is styled with chic clean finishes. The home’s main level features large great room with stone fireplace, chef’s gourmet kitchen, lovely dining room, master bedroom suite and a guest bedroom suite with its own private loft area. Two beautiful guest suites are located on the upper level along with a cozy sitting area. The lower level features a family room with fireplace, wet bar, and two guest bedrooms. MLS# 89318

WA D E H A M P T O N G O L F C LU B

$2, 3 5 0,0 0 0

This elegant mountain home is full of charm and is located on a quiet culdesac. Excellent views of the club’s 13th golf hole and a peak at Whiteside Mountain. Beautiful great room featuring dry stacked stone fireplace, reclaimed-timber beams and a wall of French doors that access the covered porch. Master bedroom suite on main level with spacious classic appointments, and three beautiful guest suites upstairs. A two-car carport and lovely perennial low maintenance landscaping complete this beautiful home. MLS# 89445

LIZ HARRIS 828.342.3194 (c) liz@cashiers.com

McKeeProperties.com 619 Highway 107 South OFFICE: 828.743.3411

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 105

WA D E H A M P T O N G O L F C LU B

$2, 2 5 0,0 0 0

Located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this home nestled in the woods offers ultimate privacy and peace. A beautiful covered bridge leads to the front door of this 4BR/4.5BA home with spacious great room, stone fireplaces, and beautiful screened porch overlooking gorgeous views of Wade Hamptonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s golf course and the mountains beyond. MLS# 89365

M O U N TA I N T O P G O L F C LU B

$1,5 0 0,0 0 0

Excellent view lot on Greenfield drive. Walking distance to the clubhouse, driving range, tennis courts, pool, first tee box, and more! Located at an elevation of 4,000 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains, between the historic towns of Highlands and Cashiers, Mountaintop offers a private retreat of 251 estate lots, spectacular Tom Fazio-designed golf course, world-class spa, lifestyle concierge assistance and Private Lake Club at nearby Lake Glenville. MLS# 88606

BALD ROCK

$1,5 0 0,0 0 0

A handsome Equestrian estate with 3BR/3.5BA mountain rustic home on 6.55 acres over-looking the Blue Ridge Mountains. 3-Stall custom, top-ofthe-line barn with pastures and arena make this an equestrian loverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paradise. MLS# 86905

McKeeProperties.com T H E K E Y TO D I S C O V E R I N G YO U R O W N M O U N TA I N L I F E S T Y L E

106 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com

ARROWHE AD

C E DA R H I L L

$ 8 9 9,0 0 0

This brand new 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath cottage, with bonus room upstairs, and a 1-car garage offers all the Arrowhead charm and much more! Nestled in a private corner of the community on Fowler Creek, the home offers a fun setting the whole family can enjoy. MLS# 89342

Handsome mountain home offering a lovely view and plenty of room. Located just minutes from the center of Cashiers and the amenities of Sapphire Valley. Offering 5BR/3.5BA, family room on lower level and a bonus/play room upstairs. A must see! MLS# 89496

HIGH HAMP TON

WA D E H A M P T O N

$ 8 49,0 0 0

$ 6 9 9,0 0 0

Charming home in Heaton Forest of High Hampton! Three bedrooms on the main level. From the large screened porch, dining room, and living room you see Chimney Top Mountain and golf course views. Two large fireplacesâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;living room and screened porch. MLS# 89215

Cozy cottage with three bedrooms on the main level. Features great room with vaulted ceilings, wood flooring and stone fireplace. Open kitchen with breakfast bar, open deck. Large family room and bunk area downstairs. MLS# 89539

CA S H I E R S I N -T O W N

WA N D E R I N G R I D G E

$ 6 9 9,0 0 0

Brand new in-town cottage â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Enjoy this lovely 3BR/3.5BA cottage surrounding a large meadow and green space. Features include two stacked stone fireplaces, stain pine flooring, master on the main level and so much more! Walking distance to downtown! MLS# 88408

LIZ HARRIS 828.342.3194 (c) liz@cashiers.com

$ 4 49,0 0 0

This cute cottage in Cedar Creek Club is just a short walk to the lake and clubhouse! Great short range mountain views and frontage on the Horsepasture river. Master on main level. Spacious open kitchen and dining area. MLS# 87934

McKeeProperties.com 619 Highway 107 South OFFICE: 828.743.3411

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 107

WA D E H A M P T O N

$ 2,5 8 9,0 0 0

SPRING FOREST

$1, 2 8 5,0 0 0

This magnificent estate-size 5BR/5BA home sits on 8+ beautiful acres with a spectacular mountain view! Elegant great room with floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, bright kitchen and breakfast nook. Covered porch with fireplace. Two-story guesthouse a short distance away. MLS# 88678

Beautiful 4BR/4BA home on 3.14 acres has a gorgeous great room with a huge stone, wood-burning fireplace, a charming den with a gaslog fireplace and built-ins galore. Enjoy a 180 degree mountain view from the screened porch with fireplace! MLS# 87799

C H AT T O O G A C LU B

HIGHLANDS CC

$ 975,0 0 0 FURNISHED

$ 8 9 5,0 0 0

This beautifully furnished 3BR/3BA cottage welcomes you home the minute you walk in the door! Enjoy views of Chimney Top Mountain from the covered porch with a handsome stone fireplace. Property has lovely gardens and plantings! MLS# 84845

Totally updated 3BR/3BA home provides a fabulous open floor plan. Stone fireplace, hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, and covered porch overlooking forest & fauna. Circular front driveway with connected 2-car garage. Beautiful native plantings abound. MLS# 89491

T R I L L I U M L I N KS

MOUNT LORI

$ 42 0,0 0 0 FURNISHED

Spacious two-story 3BR/3.5BA home just a golf cart ride away from all the amenities. Wraparound decks overlooking 14th fairway. Lovely great room with cathedral ceilings. Nearly new golf cart and Trillium membership initiation fee included. MLS# 89992

$ 3 9 5,0 0 0

Charming 3 bedroom home with covered porches and decks abounding! A lovely 1 bedroom guest house including wood working shop and multi-purpose room is attached by a walkway. Awesome location, just minutes from downtown Highlands. MLS# 87194

SANDY BARROW 478.737.9664 (c) JOHN BARROW 828.506.9356 (c) 619 Highway 107 S / 828.743.3411 (o) 108 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com

ADVERTISER’S INDEX

accOmmOdatiOns

Builders

Black Bear Lodge blackbearlodgeofsapphire.com Page 55 Chambers Realty highlandsiscalling.com Pages 61, 86 Country Club Properties ccphighlandsnc.com Page 2 Fire Mountain Inn & Cabins firemt.com Page 13 The Greystone Inn thegreystoneinn.com Page 4 Half Mile Farm halfmilefarm.com Page 51 Landmark Vacation Rentals landmarkvacations.com Pages 10, 11, 42, 43 Old Edwards Inn & Spa oldedwardsinn.com Page 51 Silver Creek Real Estate Group ncliving.com Pages 30, 31 Whiteside Cove Cottages Page 76 antiques & hOme furnishings Bound’s Cave Christine’s Home Decor Dutchman’s Designs Peak Experience The Summer House Vivianne Metzger

boundscaverugs.com dutchmansdesigns.com peakexp.com summerhousehighlands.com vmantiques.com

Page 21 Page 86 Page 64 Page 57 Page 23 Page 55

Big Creek Construction Lupoli Construction lupoliconstruction.com Srebalus Construction Co. srebalusconstruction.com Warth Construction warthconstruction.com Business/Office supplies Dauntless Printing

Pages 69, 97 catering

The Kitchen

thekitchenofhighlands.com

Cashiers Chamber of Commerce Highlands Chamber of Commerce

Page 79

aroundbackatrockysplace.com thebascom.org peakexp.com summerhousehighlands.com

Page 35 Page 15 Page 57 Page 23

Bars Page 50 Page 50 Page 50

Bedding ACP Home Interiors Blue Ridge Bedding Dutchman’s Designs The Summer House

acphomeinteriors.com blueridgebedding.com dutchmansdesigns.com summerhousehighlands.com

Page 79 Page 87 Page 64 Page 23

BOat rentals Signal Ridge Marina

signalridgemarina.com

cashiersareachamber.com

Page 89

highlandschamber.org

Page 89

cleaning/hOusekeeping services Pro Servicess Rebecka’s Home Cleaning Service

Page 89 Page 86 clOth/uphOlstery

acphomeinteriors.com

The High Dive The Ugly Dog Pub Highlands theuglydogpub.com The Ugly Dog Pub - Cashiers theuglydogpub.com

Page 47

chamBers Of cOmmerce

art galleries/artists ACP Home Interiors Around Back at Rocky’s Place The Bascom Peak Experience The Summer House

Page 59 Page 70 Page 86 Page 116

Page 18

ACP Home Interiors Dutchman’s Designs The Summer House

acphomeinteriors.com dutchmansdesigns.com summerhousehighlands.com

Page 79 Page 64 Page 23

clOthing & accessOries Bespoke by TJ Bailey Peak Experience The Look Boutique McCulley’s TJ Bailey for Men VC for Men Victoria’s Closet Victoria’s Sportswear

peakexp.com thelookcashiers.boutiquewindow.com tjbmens.com victoriasclosetnc.com victoriasclosetnc.com victoriasclosetnc.com

Page 13 Page 57 Page 55 Page 3 Page 70 Page 8 Page 8 Page 8

clOthing cOnsignment The Blue Elephant Victoria’s Closet

victoriasclosetnc.com

Page 8 Page 8

clOset design Black Rock Granite and Cabinetry The Summer House

blackrockgraniteandcabinetry.com Pages 57, 86 summerhousehighlands.com Page 23

thelaurelmagazine.com | March thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 2019 | 109| 109

ADVERTISER’S INDEX

cOmfOrters ACP Home Interiors Blue Ridge Bedding Dutchman’s Designs The Summer House

acphomeinteriors.com blueridgebedding.com dutchmansdesigns.com summerhousehighlands.com

events Page 79 Page 87 Page 64 Page 23

cOmmunities Silver Creek Real Estate Group

ncliving.com

Pages 30, 31

cOncierge services HCCM Home

hccmhome.com

Page 86

cOsmetic surgery Center for Plastic Surgery Robert T. Buchanan, M.D. plasticsurgerytoday.com

Page 74

crafts The Bascom Peak Experience

thebascom.org peakexp.com

Page 15 Page 57

custOm caBinetry/cOuntertOps ACP Home Interiors Black Rock Granite and Cabinetry Jennings Builders Supply The Summer House

acphomeinteriors.com

Page 79

blackrockgraniteandcabinetry.com Pages 57, 86 jbwnc.com summerhousehighlands.com

Page 15 Page 23

custOm furniture ACP Home Interiors Dutchman’s Designs Gray Lighting & Woodwork The Summer House

Betsy Paul Art Raffle Celebrate Clayton Dining Out for Life Highlands Cashiers Players Highlands Playhouse Martin Lipscomb Performing Arts Center The Village Green Three River Fly Fishing Festival

acphomeinteriors.com dutchmansdesigns.com

Page 79 Page 64

summerhousehighlands.com

Page 63 Page 23

wilbankssmilecenter.com

ACP Home Interiors Carolina Rustic Furniture Dutchman’s Designs High Country Furniture & Design Nearly New The Summer House Vivianne Metzger

Page 75

110 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com Advertiser’s Index

acphomeinteriors.com carolinarusticfurniture.com dutchmansdesigns.com

Page 79 Page 87 Page 64

highcountry.com

Page 14 Page 8 Page 23 Page 55

summerhousehighlands.com vmantiques.com

The Blue Elephant Consignment Market Nearly New

consignmentmarketcashiersnc.com

Page 8 Page 8 Page 8

gift shOps ACP Home Interiors Around Back at Rocky’s Place The Look Boutique Nearly New Peak Experience The Summer House

acphomeinteriors.com

Page 79

aroundbackatrockysplace.com thelookcashiers.boutiquewindow.com

Page 35 Page 55 Page 8 Page 57 Page 23

peakexp.com summerhousehighlands.com

Betsy Paul Art Raffle

Page 41 grOOmers

Page 53

jbwnc.com

Page 19

giving Back

dOOrs/WindOWs Jennings Builders Supply

Pages 35, 39 Page 93

furniture cOnsignments

desserts Chocolate Heaven

highlandspac.org villagegreencashiersnc.com

furniture

dentists Dr. Joe Wilbanks

celebrateclayton.com wncap.org/DOFL highlandscashiersplayers.org highlandsplayhouse.org

Page 41 Page 83 Page 83 Page 37 Page 34

Woofgang Bakery & Grooming

Page 91 gutters

Page 15

Pro Servicess

Page 89

ADVERTISER’S INDEX ADVERTISER’S INDEX

hair salOns Bombshell Hair Boutique Creative Concepts

kitchen and Bath design Page 21 Page 86

heating and air Holley Heating & Air Conditioning

holleyheating.com

acphomeinteriors.com carolinarusticfurniture.com dutchmansdesigns.com peakexp.com summerhousehighlands.com vmantiques.com

Page 79 Page 87 Page 64 Page 8 Page 57 Page 23 Page 55

mtnworks.com

Page 9

sweetreatshighlands.com

Pro Servicess

Page 89 lighting

ACP Home Interiors Carolina Rustic Furniture Dutchman’s Designs Gray Lighting & Woodwork The Summer House

acphomeinteriors.com boundscaverugs.com carolinarusticfurniture.com

Page 50

dornbushdesign.com dutchmansdesigns.com

Page 79 Page 21 Page 87 Page 86 Page 67 Page 64

highcountry.com jbwnc.com summerhousehighlands.com

Page 14 Page 15 Page 23

investment planning Edward Jones Investments

edwardjones.com

Page 81

JeWelry - fashiOn ACP Home Interiors Jannie Bean Custom Jewelry The Look Boutique Peak Experience

acphomeinteriors.com carolinarusticfurniture.com dutchmansdesigns.com summerhousehighlands.com

Page 79 Page 87 Page 64 Page 63 Page 23

linens

interiOr design & hOme furnishings ACP Home Interiors Bound’s Cave Carolina Rustic Furniture Christine’s Home Decor Dornbush Design Studio Dutchman’s Designs High Country Furniture & Design Jennings Builders Supply The Summer House

Page 63 landscapers

ice cream SweeTreats

Page 79

blackrockgraniteandcabinetry.com Pages 57, 86 summerhousehighlands.com Page 23

Gray Lighting & Woodwork

hOme design Mountainworks Design

acphomeinteriors.com

lamp repair

Page 13

hOme accessOries ACP Home Interiors Carolina Rustic Furniture Dutchman’s Designs Nearly New Peak Experience The Summer House Vivianne Metzger

ACP Home Interiors Black Rock Granite and Cabinetry The Summer House

ACP Home Interiors Blue Ridge Bedding Dutchman’s Designs The Summer House

acphomeinteriors.com blueridgebedding.com dutchmansdesigns.com summerhousehighlands.com

Page 79 Page 87 Page 64 Page 23

marinas Signal Ridge Marina

signalridgemarina.com

Page 18

massage services Cashiers Valley Fusion Creative Concepts Yoga of Highlands

cashiersvalleyfusion.com yogahighlands.com

Page 76 Page 86 Page 76

mattresses Blue Ridge Bedding Dutchman’s Designs The Summer House

blueridgebedding.com dutchmansdesigns.com summerhousehighlands.com

Page 87 Page 64 Page 23

medical services

acphomeinteriors.com

Page 79

janniebeandesigns.com thelookcashiers.boutiquewindow.com peakexp.com

Page 57 Page 55 Page 57

Dr. Edward D. Frederickson MD FACP Mission Primary Care – Highlands/Cashiers mission-health.org

Page 74 Page 73

thelaurelmagazine.com | March | 111 thelaurelmagazine.com | March 20192019 | 111

radiO statiOns

mOvies Highlands Playhouse

highlandsplayhouse.org

Page 34

WHLC FM 104.5

music stOres Blue Ridge Music

blueridgemusicacademy.com

Page 37

Page 86 painting

Morales Painting Pro Servicess

Page 18 Page 89 pet care/supplies

Woofgang Bakery & Grooming

Page 91 phOtOgraphy

Charles Johnson Fine Art Photography Susan B Photography

charlesjohnsonfineart.com suebphoto.com

Page 35 Page 41

phOtOgraphy studiOs Studio 106

Page 17 pOOls/spas

Mountain Spring Spas and Pools

mountainhotspring.com

Page 9

pOttery ACP Home Interiors Around Back at Rocky’s Place Dutchman’s Designs Peak Experience The Summer House

acphomeinteriors.com aroundbackatrockysplace.com dutchmansdesigns.com peakexp.com summerhousehighlands.com

Page 79 Page 35 Page 64 Page 57 Page 23

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Betsy Paul Blair Realty Chambers Realty Country Club Properties John Cleaveland Realty Landmark Realty Group Landmark Realty Group Ron Hensley Landmark Realty Group Kristen Hitchcock Landmark Realty Group Sam Lupas McKee Properties McKee Properties Liz Harris McKee Properties Merry Soellner McKee Properties Sandy & John Barrow Sapphire Valley Real Estate Silver Creek Real Estate Group Sotheby’s Jody Lovell Sotheby’s Bert Mobley

puBs

112 | March Winter 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com

landmarkrg.com

Pages 42, 43

landmarkrg.com

Pages 10, 11

landmarkrg.com mckeeproperties.com

Pages 10, 11, 78 Pages 100-108

mckeeproperties.com

Pages 104-107

mckeeproperties.com

Pages 102, 103

mckeeproperties.com

Pages 108

sapphirevalleyrealestate.com ncliving.com highlandssothebysrealty.com highlandsssir.com

Page 71 Pages 30, 31 Page 85 Page 5

Big Creek Construction

Page 59 restaurants

Pages 69, 97

The Ugly Dog Pub Highlands theuglydogpub.com The Ugly Dog Pub - Cashiers theuglydogpub.com

meadowsmountainrealty.com Page 65 betsypaulproperties.com Page 115 blair-realty.com Page 69 highlandsiscalling.com Pages 61, 86 ccphighlandsnc.com Page 2 jcrealty.com Page 77 landmarkrg.com Pages 10, 11, 42, 43, 78

remOdelng

printing cOmpanies Dauntless Printing

Page 13

real estate sales

nail care Creative Concepts

whlc.com

Page 50 Page 50

Highlands-Cashiers Directory 4118 Kitchen and Bar Bake My Day Cafe & Bistro Fire + Water

Page 52 Page 49

firemt.com

Page 47 Page 13

The Kitchen Lakeside Restaurant Log Cabin Restaurant Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden Meritage Bistro On the Verandah Restaurant at Greystone Inn Slabtown Pizza SweeTreats The Ugly Dog Pub Highlands The Ugly Dog Pub Cashiers Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro The Zookeeper Bistro

thekitchenofhighlands.com lakesiderestaurant.info logcabinhighlands.com

Page 47 Page 49 Page 49

meritagehighlands.com ontheverandah.com

Page 51 Ps⁄age 4 Page 53

slabtownpizza.com sweetreatshighlands.com

Page 4 Page 47 Page 50

theuglydogpub.com

Page 50

theuglydogpub.com

Page 50

wolfgangs.net

Page 5 Page 49

rOOfing Pro Servicess Roman’s Roofing LLC

romansroofingnc.com

Page 89 Page 86

rugs ACP Home Interiors Bound’s Cave Carolina Rustic Furniture The Summer House

acphomeinteriors.com boundscaverugs.com

Page 79 Page 21

carolinarusticfurniture.com summerhousehighlands.com

Page 87 Page 23

taBles ACP Home Interiors Dutchman’s Designs Vivianne Metzger

Highlands Cashiers Players highlandscashiersplayers.org Highlands Playhouse highlandsplayhouse.org Martin Lipscomb Performing Arts Center highlandspac.org

Page 9

tjbmens.com

peakexp.com

Highlands Transportation Company

oldedwardsinn.com

Page 67 vacatiOn rentals

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chambers Realty Landmark Vacation Rentals Silver Creek Real Estate Group

meadowsmountainrealty.com highlandsiscalling.com

Page 65 Pages 61, 86

landmarkvacations.com

Pages 10, 11

ncliving.com

Pages 30, 31

Wedding services Wedding Farmhouse

weddingfarmhouse.com

Gray Lighting & Woodwork The Summer House

Page 69

Page 57

summerhousehighlands.com

Page 63 Page 23

WOOdWOrk ACP Home Interiors Gray Lighting & Woodwork

spas Old Edwards Inn & Spa

Pages 35, 39

transpOrtatiOn

Page 70

sOcks Peak Experience

Page 37 Page 34

WindOW treatments

shOes TJ Bailey for Men

Page 79 Page 64 Page 55

theatre/entertainment

shipping services Stork’s Wrap, Pack & Ship

acphomeinteriors.com dutchmansdesigns.com vmantiques.com

acphomeinteriors.com

Page 79 Page 63

yOga Page 51

Cashiers Valley Fusion Yoga of Highlands

cashiersvalleyfusion.com yogahighlands.com

Page 76 Page 76

thelaurelmagazine.com | Winter | 113 thelaurelmagazine.com | March 20192019 | 113

PARTING SHOT The Cullasaja By Dylan Lytle

Dylan Lytle | The Bascom’s Photography Artist in Residence See page 12 for information on 114 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com The Bascom’s resident program and classes offered by Dylan.

thelaurelmagazine.com | March 2019 | 115

116 | March 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com