March Laurel - The Heart of the Highlands Cashiers Plateau

a e

L UR L The Heart of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau

Highlands Earth Week Celebrating Our Natural Heritage pg 14

Born to be An Artist Our cover artist, Pauline Marr

MARCH 2020

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CON T E N T S March 2020

13 What To Do

18 Heritage Apple Day

35 Arts

38 Feature Artist Kristin Edwards

51 Dining

52 Brunch HQ

65 Shopping

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68 Plateau Picks

77 Outdoors

84 Rare Oconee Bells

87 History

89 Highlands First Mayor

91 Lifestyles & Wellness 98 Catherine Taylor

105 Giving Back

108 The Role of a Mentor

114 Business Highlights

114 Enjoy Our Secret Season

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Greystone Inn’s Hoppy Spring Beer Dinner

A quiet day alongside a bold mountain stream

Beer Dinner

My Day in March

30 Calendar | 60 Dining Guide | 62 Accommodations Guide | 72 Highlands Map | 74 Cashiers Map | 102 Service Guide | 128 Advertiser’s Index

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VOLUME EIGHTEEN, ISSUE TWO

JANET CUMMINGS Managing Partner

janet@thelaurelmagazine.com

MARJORIE CHRISTIANSEN Managing Partner marjorie@thelaurelmagazine.com

MICHELLE MUNGER Art Director mungerclan5@aol.com

SARAH FIELDING Account Manager sarah@thelaurelmagazine.com

LORNA ALEXANDER Account Manager lorna@thelaurelmagazine.com

LUKE OSTEEN Editor / Writer luke@thelaurelmagazine.com

DONNA RHODES Writer dmrhodes847@gmail.com

MARY JANE MCCALL Writer mjmccall777@gmail.com

A.J. STEWART Writer ashleystewartauthor@gmail.com

THOMAS CUMMINGS Distribution Manager jothcu@yahoo.com

Publisher’s Note This issue of The Laurel is all about the arrival of Spring!

It’s the first shoots of green springing up on the forest floor (see page 106). It’s the exuberant song of the Carolina Wren, whose busy life is chronicled on page 82.

It’s the revelation of Secret Falls, whose display gets a little more vocal with the arrival of seasonal showers (see page 78).

And, of course, it’s the fresh new look of our cover and the layout changes you’ll discover throughout this issue. See, unlike our Black Bear neighbors, we didn’t go into hibernation over the winter.

Thanks for taking part in this adventure, Sincerely, Janet and Marjorie

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

Contributing Writers: 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, Mary Abranyi, Ashby Underwood, and Chris Wilkes Contributing Photographers: Susan Renfro, Greg Clarkson, Charles Johnson, Peter Ray, Terry Barnes and Kevin FitzPatrick Copyright © 2020 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.

WHAT TO DO Pages 14-30

W H AT TO DO

Happy 50th

Earth Day 14

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W H AT TO DO

It’s no wonder the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau is lighting up Ear th Day this year, it’s more than just a day. The Highlands Chamber of Commerce has a listing of all the local events from Monday, April 20, to Sunday, April 26.

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he Highlands Chamber of Commerce has always been a supporter of efforts to preserve Highlands’ natural heritage.

That’s why it stages the Gorge Cleanup in the spring and autumn and why it’s partnered with conservation groups over the decades.

Naturally, conservation has been a driving force in the development of Highlands, dating back to the Foundation of the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust in 1909.

With all that, Earth Day is a big deal on the Plateau, especially when America celebrates the 50th anniversary of this landmark event. In fact, the celebration can’t be contained on a single day, with activities spilling across an entire week, from Monday, April 20, to Sunday, April 26.

Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust kicks off the activities on Monday, April 20, with a guided Hike from one of Highlands newest trails, Brushy Face Trail, to one of its oldest, Satulah Mountain Preserve, both conserved by HCLT. For more information, visit the Highlands Chamber of Commerce’s Visitor Center at 108 Main Street, or go to hicashlt.org.

The Highlands Nature Center will offer “Insects 101” as part of Nature 101 Series 1:00 to 3:00 P.M. Tuesday, April 21. Participants will learn about spring insects by catching and talking about them.

The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center, located at 3872 Dillard Road on the outskirts of Highlands, will stage a Tree Planting and Seed Bomb Workshop from 1:00 to 4:00 P.M. Friday, April 24. The public is invited to attend.

“Come join us in planting pollinator-friendly trees and shrubs in our burgeoning food forest,” says Joey Kyle, the farm manager at The Mountain’s Many Hands Peace Farm. “We’ll be planting American persimmons, goumis, elderberries, and more. Plus learn how to make seed bombs with a custom mix of seeds for your desires. What better way to celebrate Arbor Day and Earth Day!” Parking will be available in the large lot at the base of The Mountain. Light refreshments will be provided along with a mini-market of the farm’s wares. For more information, call (828) 526-5838 or visit mountaincenters.org The Bascom will celebrate Earth Day in April with its monthly Pop Up Shop series featuring local and regional artists whose work explore nature and the environment.

An artist Meet and Greet open to the public will be held on Saturday, April 25, from 11 A.M. to 2 P.M. The monthly Pop Up Shop series has been captivating art collectors in the Greehey Atrium since 2018. Designed as a platform that allows local and regional artists to tell a larger narrative, explore new artistic concepts, and introduce their body of work to members and guests of The Bascom.

The week comes to a lively finish when The Highlands Nature Center and the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust pool their talent and their resources to host The Highlands BioBlitz on the afternoon of Sunday, April 26. Participants to this free workshop should gather at the Highlands Biological Station. They will be given the chance to collect and identify different flora and fauna to catalog what’s living on the Plateau.

by Luke Osteen

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W H AT TO DO

Read All About It! Through its full slate of programs and presentations, Hudson Librar y is embroidered in the fabric of community life.

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ibraries are about so much more than books. Hudson Library, the second oldest library in the state, has been a hub of community activity for 136 years. Librarian Carlyn Morenus said collaborations with area businesses, leaders, and organizations are key.

“There are so many ways we collaborate and partner with other groups around Highlands to come up with all kinds of wonderful things at the library,” she said. “We partner with most all of the non-profit groups, especially, in one way or another.”

Beginning in March the Hudson Library resumes its monthly Community Coffee in collaboration with the Town of Highlands, scheduled for the last Friday of each month. On March 27 and subsequent months, Highlands Mayor Patrick Taylor speaks to area residents and visitors about issues relatable to Highlands.

Sometimes Taylor will bring guest speakers. Past topics have included garbage and black bears, broadband reach, upcoming activities in the community, etc.

“They are issues that affect everyone to some extent,” said Morenus.

And a “win-win” for such groups as Center for Life Enrichment, in March, and Highlands Biological Foundation, in April, is to bring refreshments for the Community Coffee, meet attendees, and learn what issues are affecting Highlands. “It gives refreshment donors a chance to reach out to people. It’s great for everyone involved,” she added.

An important highlight in April is the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, which will be celebrated April 20-26 with Highlands Earth Week 2020. Most of the organizations already involved with Hudson Library in some capacity will also be hosting activities and programs that week at the library and throughout the town.

“The library is getting a head start April 16 with the weekly Kids Zone; Many Hands Peace Farm will do a ‘spring on the farm’ theme that will include baby animals, seed plantings … lots of nice springtime activities,” explained Morenus.

Another Earth Day inspired Kids Zone takes place April 23. Balsam Mountain Trust will present a nature program for children.

And, on Friday afternoon, April 24, a repurpose/reuse plastics program will be offered that looks at the landfill crisis and unique ways to give plastics another life.

Every first Thursday of each month, The Bascom hosts a Kids Zone, while on the second Thursday of every month Highland-Cashiers Land Trust features an informational/educational activity for children. Plus, every Thursday, Gordon Center for Children, which is part of Highlands United Methodist Church in Highlands, brings its students over to participate in Kids Zone.

“These are just some of the many collaborations” said Morenus. “It’s so exciting that groups want to be involved and do things for people in the community.

Collaborations result in great things offered by the library all year round.”

To celebrate Women’s History Month, the Hudson Library will feature during the month of March a special display of books, videos, etc. worth checking out that highlight not only the general achievements of women, but also this year’s 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment, protecting women’s constitutional right to vote.

by Denna Bouknight

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W H AT TO DO

The Humble & Tasty Apple Local Apple Trees, once a mainstay of life for Plateau families, get their day in the sun thanks to The Cashiers Historical Society’s Apple Heritage Day, Saturday, March 14, at the Cashiers Community Center.

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he Cashiers Historical Society is sponsoring its 2020 Heritage Apple Day on Saturday, March 14 from 11:00 A.M. until 2:00 P.M. at the Cashiers Community Center across from the Cashiers Fire Department.

Join them in celebrating our area’s horticultural history by learning to identify and preserve ancient apple varieties that have flourished in our mountains for years. Admission is free.

The rich mountain soil of Cashiers and surrounding communities has long produced abundant apple crops which were vital to the survival of our ancestors. Flourishing farms and homesteads had abundant orchards with apple crops that provided sustenance for humans and livestock alike.

Through the years many of the aging trees are dying out or have ceased to produce fruit, and the Historical Society recognizes the continued importance of keeping these tree varieties as part of our heritage.

The featured speaker for this event will be Tom Brown, North Carolina’s modern day version of Johnny Appleseed. Brown shares his passion and extensive knowledge for preserving heritage apple varieties for future generations through donations to heritage apple nurseries, and by grafting trees to return to their original counties.

Ken Fisher, Trevor Howard, and Will Wardowski will have a grafting demonstration and workshop. 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.

Bring your own scion wood and take home an apple tree.

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. 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 Valley 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 their website at cashiershistoricalsociety.org.

by Mary Jane McCall

Point phone camera at QR code for more info about the Cashiers Historical Society.

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House of Knowledge Though it never actually went into Winter Hibernation, Alber t CarltonCashiers Community Librar y springs to glorious life in March.

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esidents who may have adopted a self-prescribed hibernation will want to venture to Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library to partake in its many springtime offerings.

Serenity Richards, branch librarian, said there is a program or activity for every age – from lively wee ones to retired adults.

Imagination Station, for one, is a monthly activity available for inquisitive early elementary-age children.

“It centers on literacy, STEAM, and creativity activities to encourage imagination and reading for pleasure,” said Richards.

Spring dates for Imagination Station are Tuesday, March 3, and April 7 at 3:45 P.M. And then there is STEAM Explorers, which is also for early elementary-age children, scheduled for Tuesday, March 17 and April 21, at 3:45 P.M. While this monthly offering also spotlights literacy, STEAM, and creativity activities to encourage imagination, another component is enhancing problem solving skills.

Wednesday at 10:00 A.M. is PreK Storytime,

where children from birth to five years old can enjoy books, crafts, and songs.

Children are encouraged to improve dexterity, imagination, and building skills on Tues. March 10 and April 14 at 3:45 P.M. by participating in Lego Builders.

Implored Richards: “Come build with us! We have a variety of building kits to help explore your imagination! Kits for all ages provided!”

Crafternoon is for kids, kindergarten through 6th grade, and this program takes place Tuesday, March 24, and April 28 at 3:45 P.M. For adults, weekly “friendly” MahJong games are offered. Whether skilled in MahJong, a game that is played with a set of 144 tiles based on Chinese characters and symbols, or not, adults gather to watch and learn or participate. MahJong is every Wednesday at 1:00 P.M. And every Thursday at 3:45 P.M., recently released movies are shown. February featured Oscar-nominated films due to the Academy Awards airing February 9. At the library’s circulation desk is a flyer of upcoming spring movie titles. Popcorn and water are provided.

On Wednesday, March 11, at 5:30 P.M., the

Bibliophiles Book Club will discuss early 20th century novelist Edith Wharton’s The Age of Innocence, which won the 1921 Pulitzer Prize for fiction and was turned into a 1993 film directed by Martin Scorsese.

Bibliophiles Book Club then delves into Pulitzer Prize finalist The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai. Scheduled for April 8, at 5:30 P.M., the modern novel, published in 2018, deals with the 1980s AIDS crisis in Chicago.

Also for adults, the Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library provides not only free oneon-one technology assistance, but also Notary Public services.

Besides Sundays and Mondays regularly, the only days the library will close in spring are Tuesday, March 31, for staff training, and Friday, April 10, for Good Friday.

by Denna Bouknight

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W H AT TO DO

fishing for fun

& Funds If ever y dog has its day, ever y bold-stream mountain angler has The Three River Fly Fishing Festival, April 30 through May 2.

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he Three River Fly Fishing Festival returns April 30 through May 2, offering anglers from near and far an opportunity to enjoy a weekend of fly fishing fun and camaraderie.

Now in its 10th year, this fund raiser 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 raised a record $20,000 last year, and hope to bring in 30 teams this year and raise $30,000 through sponsors, silent auctions, performance sales and team entry fees.

Thanks to their many sponsors all dues, tickets and donations go directly to the scholarship fund.

Festivities start on Thursday, April 30 with an opening night reception at Lullwater House. This evening of fun offers participants a chance to talk

strategy, enjoy delicious refreshments and beverages, and participate in the casting competition.

On Saturday morning there will be a public casting clinic at Harris Lake, one block from Main Street. 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.

Teams of two fish all day on Friday and Saturday 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.

In addition to team fishing, this year’s festival itinerary a special comedy performance at the Highlands PAC, “Trout fishing in America,” on Friday, May 1. Tickets are available to the public for this event

W H AT TO DO

L to R: Directors Matthew Eberz, Elizabeth Gordon, Lynleigh McLain and Mandy Houston

Play With Your Food

with all proceeds going toward the scholarship fund.

All good fishermen have a humorous story or two to tell so this evening should strike a chord with the crowd and be a lot of fun. Saturday, their final day of fishing concludes with a closing night banquet and awards ceremony at Midpoint.

Entry fees are $500 per team. For more information, to register a team or to become a sponsor, email Hilary Wilkes at hilary@highlandhiker.com, or by calling (828) 526-0441.

by Mary Jane McCall

The Highlands Cashiers Players will stage a quar tet of one-act plays, Play With Your Food, in an exclusive dinner theater March 19-21 and 26-28 at the Highlands Per forming Ar ts Center.

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hen The Highlands-Cashiers Players take the stage with Play With Your Food, four funny one-act plays, it’s something special. When those plays are served up with a full dinner prepared by local celebrity chef Kristy Lewis, well, it’s an extraordinary event.

The HCP’s Dinner Theater, set for March 19-21 and 26-28 in the Main Auditorium of the PAC, will present Blind Date, written by Tanis Galik (Off the Wall Plays Publishers) - Directed by Mandy Houston, a firsttime HCP director; Order, written by David Fleisher - Directed by Lynleigh McLain; God’s Visit, written by Evan Guilford-Blake (Off the Wall Plays Publishers) - Directed by Elizabeth Gordon, And Different Strokes written by Matthew Eberz, Mary Adair Trumbly, Helene Siegel, and Ricky Siegel Directed by Matthew Eberz, another first-time HCP director.

This show will be catered by Lewis, who received rave reviews for her catering at last year’s dinner theater.

The Highlands Performing Arts Center is located at 507 Chestnut Street. For information or tickets, call (828) 526-8084.

by Courtney Scarborough

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W H AT TO DO

Highlands Motoring Festival Highlands Motoring Festival, set for June 11-14, tweaks its schedule and revs up the excitement levels.

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nother day of driving tours has been added to this year’s HMF. The “One Lap of the Mountains Classic” is for vintage classic cars and “One Lap of the Mountains Speciale” is for all other interesting cars.

These guided drives will be on Thursday, June 11, and are shorter than Friday’s “One Lap of the Mountains Grande.” All driving tours depart and return to Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park and have a scheduled lunch stop.

This year’s Gala event will have a new theme “Welcome Soiree – An Evening of Cuba.” Along with Cuban food and drink, there will be a presentation, “The Cars of Cuba,” by renowned automotive authority Bill Warner. Warner’s many achievements include being the chairman and founder of the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance and author of a new book, Cuba’s Car Culture. The event will conclude with a charity auction of items donated by

local business and individuals.

Saturday’s car show in Kelsey Hutchinson Park has become “Cars in the Park Invitational.” All cars exhibited on Saturday will be invited through an application process available at the HMF website.

The show cars will be selected to provide diverse and interesting groupings of vehicles for public viewing.

For more information or to register, visit highlandsmotoringfestival.com.

by Steve Ham

Point phone camera at QR code for more info on the Highlands Motoring Festival.

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L Spring Beer Dinner The Greystone Inn is staging its inaugural Greystone Hoppy Spring Beer Dinner, set for Thursday, March 26.

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ast June I wrote about a visit to The Greystone Inn’s Lakeside Dining Room in Lake Toxaway.

I noted how some strange alchemy of location and impeccable service and a marvelously rendered menu delivered what could only be described as a “transcendent experience.”

Our table was clearly beguiled and my review labored to describe the essence of that evening.

Well, like a magician with more than one fat rabbit in his hat, The Greystone Inn is taking a different tack this time around to achieve the same effect.

Mark your calendar for 6:30 P.M. Thursday, March 26 – it’s The Greystone Hoppy Spring Beer Dinner.

Before I get into the particulars, just take a moment and allow this event’s name to sink in.

See how they’re delivering it with a wink and a knowing smile? “Hoppy Spring Beer Dinner” is poetic, and I dare you to recite it in your head without a smile forming at the corners of your mouth.

I was going to keep talking here, but it’s undoubtedly more effective to just present the gorgeous fourcourse menu that Chef Sean and Restaurant Manager Christian have created, exquisite dishes paired with select craft beers from local breweries:

Beginning: Shrimp, Crawfish and Andouille Puff Pastry, IPA Mornay Paired with Sierra Nevada 40th Hoppy Anniversary Ale; Soup: Potato, Leek Cheddar and Ale, Paired with Pisgah Brewing Turtleback Brown Ale; Entree: Wicked Weed Hop Cocoa Porter Braised Short Rib of Beef, Haricots Vert, Baby Carrots, Roasted Rosemary Potatoes Crispy Shallots, Pan Juice Reduction Paired with Wicked Weed Pernicious IPA; And, of course, Dessert: Chocolate Peanut Butter Torte Paired with New Belgium Southern Vine Sour.

(I know I said I was just going to let the menu speak for itself, but come on, beers with names like “Sierra Nevada 40th Hoppy Anniversary Ale,” and “Wicked Weed Pernicious IPA,” and “New Belgium Southern Vine Sour?” What an Age of Miracles this is! And the poetry of it all – I know the majestic John Keats is smiling somewhere, right now.)

Cost of the evening is $55 (tax and gratuity not included). For more information and reservations (you’ll want to make reservations), call (828) 9664700. The Greystone Inn is located on the shores of Lake Toxaway in Toxaway.

by Luke Osteen

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hether 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, it’s the start of The Laurel ’s Winter 2021 Cover Photo Contest. Every year, we ask our readers to share with us their vision of the Quintessential Highlands-Cashiers Plateau Winter.

From the bright red flash of a cardinal or holly berry against the barren trees, to sunrises and sunsets that explode with color, or sunlight glistening on a freshly fallen snow, winter is a perfect time to enjoy a few moments in nature with our cameras.

Now some of you are saying that Winter 2019-2020 is an anomaly, that the near-balmy weeks, and days and days of rain were anything but a typical Plateau winter.

Well, it’s true, there haven’t been sweeping vistas of snow or ponds locked in the grip of a hard-frozen layer of ice, but it’s been winter all the same.

The forests are still hushed, the mountains look like they’re clothed in mouse fur, a bold cardinal can still light up the day with his exuberant plumage, and your neighbors still flash those absolutely irresistible smiles as they fill their days with busyness.

All of these are irreducible signposts of a Plateau Winter.

Your winning photograph could be the cover of our 2021 Winter Edition. Pictured are some of our favorites from last 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 at facebook.com/ TheLaurelMagazine by March 31. Submitted photographs should be high resolution 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.

Point phone camera at QR code to enter and vote in our 2021 Winter Photo Cover Contest.

Capture the Magic

As we’re all focused on the arrival of spring, don’t forget those memories of winter. Laurel Magazine is saving a spot for you in its Winter 2021 Cover.

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M A RCH

In March, nature and the Plateau itself tell you to wake up, breathe deeply, and turn your face to the sky. It’s showtime!

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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• Critter Camp, 9:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M., at the CashiersHighlands Humane Society. Cost $250, (828) 743-5752.

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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• Critter Camp, 9:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M., at the CashiersHighlands Humane Society. Cost $250, (828) 743-5752.

• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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• Critter Camp, 9:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M., at the CashiersHighlands Humane Society. Cost $250, (828) 743-5752.

• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

•Great Art on Screen with The Bascom: Viva La Vida, 5:30 P.M., PAC, highlandspac.org.

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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• Critter Camp, 9:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M., at the CashiersHighlands Humane Society. Cost $250, (828) 743-5752.

• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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• First Day of Spring • Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

• Highlands-Cashiers Players Play With Your Food, 6:30 P.M., PAC, (828) 526-8084.

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

• Highlands-Cashiers Players Play With Your Food, 6:30 P.M., PAC, (828) 526-8084.

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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• Critter Camp, 9:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M., at the CashiersHighlands Humane Society. Cost $250, (828) 743-5752.

• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

• Highlands-Cashiers Players Play With Your Food, 6:30 P.M., PAC, (828) 526-8084.

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

• Art Raffle Drawing, 5:30 P.M., Betsy Paul Properties, (828) 743-0880.

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

• Highlands-Cashiers Players Play With Your Food, 6:30 P.M., PAC, (828) 526-8084.

View the complete Highlands Cashiers Plateau Calendar

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• Live Via Satellite National Theatre Hansard, 1:00 P.M., PAC, highlandspac.org.

• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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• Live Via Satellite Metropolitan Opera Der Fliegende Holländer, 12:30 P.M., PAC, highlandspac.org • Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

•Highlands-Cashiers Players Play With Your Food, 6:30 P.M., PAC, (828) 526-8084.

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• Movies, 1:00, 4:00, and 7:00 P.M., Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

• Highlands-Cashiers Players Play With Your Food, 6:30 P.M., PAC, (828) 526-8084.

• Chefs in the House, Half-Mile Farm, (828) 787-2620.

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Born to be an

Arti s t

For cover ar tist Pauline Marr, ever y bend in the backroad South offers a scene just waiting to be captured.

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t’s easy to fall under the spell of Pauline Marr’s paintings of this corner of Western North Carolina.

They’re pastoral visions culled from backroads wanderings and infused with a nostalgic tug that’s almost palpable.

This is American Pastoral delivered with an artist’s precision and a poet’s wistfulness. Barns collapse, yet manage to hold onto their dignity earned by decades of service. A row of cabins at Camp Merrie Wood look a bit scuffed, yet their relentlessly cheerful green roofs signal that they’re ready to receive yet another summer’s worth of boisterous girls. An old grey farm horse is cropping a nearly-gone-to-seed pasture, ready to be called back to duty.

Each painting is a postcard from a South, from a way of life, that’s vanishing before the onslaught of 21st century drive and low-level anxiety. Let them wash over you and you can feel the tensions slipping away. They’re transporting and therapeutic in even measure.

You’d think that such talent would be some Godgiven, straight-from-the-womb degree of genius, and you’d be almost correct.

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“When I was three or four years old, I recall standing barefoot and tippy-toed, with my nose pressed against the glass pane of our dining window,”

I describe my work as Abstract Impressionistic Realism.

Pauline says. “My father was mowing hay in the bottom field with a tractor. I was mesmerized by the graceful way the wheat grass moved in the breeze, creating these amazing criss-cross patterns rippling through this field of green. I remember thinking to myself, ‘I can never forget exactly how that looks so I can paint it.’ I was born an artist, plain and simple and my medium is acrylic, oils or watercolors.”

But that account belies the decades of study and refinement, and, most importantly, the dramatic reformation of her basic talents and vision.

“I woke one morning, about 10 years ago, and

when I stepped to the easel, everything had changed – my realism had left sometime during the night and no matter what I did to stop it, I had become an Impressionistic painter.

“I describe my work as Abstract Impressionistic Realism. If you view one of my paintings closely, it’s very abstract.

Stepping backwards a few feet and it becomes impressionistic. A few steps more and it’s as realistic as can be.”

To view Pauline’s work, visit Easley an Artist in Highlands, just across from Town Hall. You can also catch the artist and her work at Highlands Farmers Market, Saturdays at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, from May to October. Finally, you can pin her down at her Beginner and Beyond Acrylic Painting Class at the Sapphire Valley Community Center.

And, of course, you can contact her through her website, paulines-art.com.

by Luke Osteen

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Pauline Marr

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Ref lective Colors The exquisite creations of potter Kristin Edwards are the product of years of study at The Bascom.

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hen you encounter Kristin Edwards’ pottery creations at The Bascom and Easley an Artist, you’re struck by the subtle color choices, but also how very practical they are.

Of course, those colors are a reflection of the artist’s instincts and sensibilities, but the practicality is the product of Kristin’s own practical nature.

These works of art aren’t meant to be stored on a shelf – they’re cheerful servants made for day-to-day service.

“I love to make functional pottery,” she says.

“What inspires me is making pieces that I know people will use over and over again and love. A coffee cup is nice to look at, but when you pick it up, feel the rim with your lips, feel how the handle fits in your hand, feeling how comfortable it is to you, that’s what I am constantly trying to improve in my work. I like to bake, so when I make bowls, casserole dishes or pie plates, I make what I like to use and hope others receive as much enjoyment from using them as I get from making them.”

Kristin began taking pottery classes in college, then picked up classes here and there over the years.

But The Bascom shaped this creative flowering that’s produced this extraordinary crop of creations.

“Since The Bascom has opened up, I have taken as many classes as I could during the summer and worked to improve my skills during the winter. I also volunteer at The Bascom making glazes, doing odd jobs, and being an additional hand at keeping the studio clean.

“The Bascom is a great place to learn pottery. There are so many classes you can take year round. It is so satisfying to make something from a lump of clay and see what turns out after firing and glazing. Pottery is teaching me patience and humility and to love the time I have to spend with other creative people. I find it amazing how we can learn from others from all ability levels. I hope to be able to continue my pottery for many years to come, and learn something new every time I go to the studio. My heart is happy when I am potting!”

You can view Kristen’s creations at The Bascom and Easley an Artist, 221 North Fourth Street in Highlands.

by Luke Osteen

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Kristin Edwards

Live Theater & Fine Films With its star-crossed 2019 season behind it, Highlands Playhouse sets its sights upon a dynamic 82nd season, animated by love, nostalgia, and an irresistible suite of songs.

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ighlands Playhouse is celebrating our 82nd season this year, and we mean celebrating with a capital “C,” and a heart full of gratitude to everyone who made it possible.

Last season was the most successful ever, beginning with the blockbuster hit Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, which broke box office records.

Oklahoma! followed and was much-loved, but just as things looked to be smooth sailing a setback occurred. Fire broke out in the dressing rooms and the Set Fabrication Building, which brought things to a screeching halt.

Playhouse Director Lance Matzke says he thinks enough time has passed to see a bit of humor in the irony that the fire started in a hay bale from the set. Ironic it might have been, but it put the future of the Playhouse in a bit of jeopardy.

In true Highlander spirit, the community pulled together to see that repairs were made so the tradition of live theater in Highlands continues.

Director Lance says that without the support of our generous patrons and the Town of Highlands, the upcoming 82nd season would not have been possible.

“I’m very excited by this season’s line up and can’t wait for people to see what we’ve got for them this year,” he says. “We’ve had a lot to do this off season, but the end results will be well worth our efforts. Big thanks go out to the many generous people who contributed to our ‘Fire Fund.’ They really have made this season possible.”

This summer’s shows are all celebratory in nature and audiences will revel in the fun.

Kicking off this season and running from June 25 through July 11 is the beloved smash hit musical, Mama Mia, featuring the songs of Abba. Sing along, and let the joy of the music and the heartwarming story take you away.

Mid-season brings the ever relevant message and humor of The Will Rogers Follies from July 16 through August 1. The musings and wisdom of America’s favorite humorist are timeless, and this endearing portrait of Americana is sure to please.

The season finale is a musical with its roots in these Blue Ridge Mountains.

Bright Star is written by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell and features lively bluegrass music. Highlands Playhouse is proud to be one of the first regional theaters to present this Appalachian tale.

For more information about films or live theater, visit highlandsplayhouse.org or call (828) 526-2695.

by Mary Jane McCall

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Sharing Unique Perspectives A pair of Resident Ar tists will boost The Bascom’s ceramic and photographic por folios.

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he Bascom welcomes two new Resident Artists to Highlands this spring.

Annually, The Bascom sends out calls to artists for a variety of residency opportunities on its campus. Residencies not only provide an important professional development opportunity for artists, giving them time and space to further their studio practice, but they play a key role in bringing talented artists from across the country to our area. Through teaching, demonstration, and exhibition of work, resident artists share their unique perspective with our communities and visitors.

In February, two new resident artists, Paul Maloney and Ben Bookout, arrived to begin their immersive residency experience at The Bascom.

Paul is a ceramic artist travelling from Wisconsin, and Ben is a photographer travelling from Colorado.

Both residents have extensive experience in their respective fields. Paul holds an MFA from Indiana University and is returning to a resident studio practice

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from a position as Pottery and Foundry Technician at the John Michael Kohler Arts Center. Ben received his Master of Architecture from Universidad Catolica de Chile, and his Professional Photography Degree from Colorado Mountain College.

As well as creating their own work, both artists will be instructing classes and workshops at The Bascom.

The Bascom has also partnered with Macon STEM at Macon Middle School to provide supplemental STEM programming in the classroom using the expertise of these two resident artists. Please join us in welcoming Paul Maloney and Ben Bookout to The Bascom.

The Bascom is located at 323 Franklin Road. For information, call (828) 526-4949, but you really owe yourself a browse.

by Billy Love

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All Events, One Ticket Place Buying event tickets in Highlands just got a whole lot easier.

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ighlands Performing Arts Center, Highlands Playhouse, and the Highlands-Cashiers Players have pooled their resources to make buying tickets for all three entities much easier.

The new ticketing system provides an easy to use, web-based method for Portal members, and casual users as well, to purchase tickets.

You can be a casual user or a Portal Member. A casual user can simply go to the website, look through all the upcoming performances and buy all she wishes at one time; no more going to individual websites for our shows.

Portal members get even more. In addition to purchasing tickets, they can review all the previous events they attended, review their donations, and manage the future events they wish to attend.

Those who are also PAC, HCP or Playhouse Members, get ticket discounts, and

for those who have free ticket packages with their memberships, the Portal remembers their status and automatically applies the free tickets and discounts to the ticket selections.

On the HPA Home Page, click on “Patron Portal,” then click on “The Portal Explained” for a tutorial. What could be easier?

You’ll be able to see all events in one place at highlandsperformingarts.com.

by Mary Adair Trumbly

Point phone camera at QR code to view Highlands Performing Arts ticketing portal.

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Art League’s 40th Anniversary The Ar t League of Highlands-Cashiers has nur tured a healthy community of creative men and women and showcased their talents for 40 years.

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W

ith only a few weeks of winter left, spring is not far away, and another busy season for the Art League will kick off next month.

On July 24, 1980, a group of local artists convened for the first official League meeting. So, 2020 will mark the League’s official 40th anniversary as a non-profit organization promoting the visual arts in Highlands.

The roots that gave rise to the Art League, however, were planted a few years earlier when a small group of art-loving women began hosting brown-bag lunches for artists.

The group, which met at Helene Sparkes’ barn at the top of Webbmont, was small in the beginning, but it began to grow as word spread. Attendees felt there was a need for an organized art group to support fellow artists in the creation, exhibition, marketing, promotion and teaching of visual arts. The Art League of Highlands was the result. Over the years, membership has grown and functions have changed.

Today, the Art League, now officially the Art League of Highlands-Cashiers and the Greater Plateau, hosts seven meetings each year at The Bascom, usually on the last Monday of each month from April through October. A wine social starts at 4:30 P.M., followed by a presentation by a guest artist.

These presentations cover a variety of disciplines, including painting, sculpture, glass art, weaving and photography, just to name a few. Both the socials and presentations are free and the public is invited.

In 2007, as a gift to area children, the Art League formed what was known at the time as the Children’s Task Force, and began sponsoring a Children’s Art Camp. Meeting on Thursdays from noon until 3:00 p.m. for eight weeks during the summer at the Highlands Recreation Park, children complete individual projects and together create a group project that is donated to the Recreation Park.

The League also sponsors two fine art shows each year, this year on June 27-28 at the Sapphire Valley Community Center and on October 17-18 at the Highlands Recreation Park. In 2020, for the first time, giclees will also be allowed into the shows. Both of these indoor shows are free to the public.

Membership consists of both artists and art-lovers.

We invite interested residents and visitors to consider joining this fun-loving group. For more information about the Art League, visit artleagueofhighlandscashiers.com.

by Zach Claxton

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Cornbread’s Critters

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John “Cornbread” Anderson’s creations celebrate the eternal charm and exquisite silliness of guineas.

uineas – yes, guinea chicks and hens – have made Georgia folk artist John “Cornbread” Anderson famous around the world.

You can expect to see his guinea paintings anywhere and everywhere – magazine exposés, restaurants, hotels, private collections, etc. All this squawking about a threepound bird!

For most collectors, the guinea painting, in some variation, is generally their first acquisition of his work.

For folks who are not familiar, the plumage of the guinea is gray/black and speckled with white. They have many specific characteristics common to only them. Guineas are the best pest control one can have, eating all kinds of insects, ticks, fleas, fire ants, spiders, worms, crickets, grasshoppers, etc., anything they can get their beaks on. They are very self-sufficient, foraging for their own food.

As for entertainment, guineas can be extremely comical; they have a personality all their own. Guineas love to watch their own reflections and can spend hours in self-absorption viewing themselves in glass windows and doors. Some owners place

mirrors around the yard the guineas claim as their space.

For city dwellers and folks not accustomed to farm fowl, upon first seeing Cornbread’s guineas, they think it is a made-up “fun” bird painting, but to country folks, guineas are a way of life. Since Cornbread draws his art from his own personal experiences with nature and the world around him, guineas top the list as his most “frequent flyers” as he spent his childhood living with a yard full of these loud squawkers! His first pieces were very realistic and true to the color of the actual fowl, but over the years, he has had fun painting them in different colors where they take on the comical feature that is their nature.

To see a plethora of Cornbread’s guinea paintings, in both the original black and white or the fun, funky multicolor, stop by Around Back at Rocky’s Place at 3631 Highway 53 East in Dawsonville, Georgia. Call (706) 265-6030 or check online at aroundbackatrockysplace.com. Gallery hours are Saturdays from 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., and Sundays from 1:00 to 5:00 P.M. Oh, and p.s., the gallery also has many other paintings of various fowl and other critters by Cornbread.

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PAC Live Via Satellite

The Highlands Per forming Ar ts Center is offering a provocative March, f illed with comedy, myster y and a deep dive into an ar tist’s kaleidoscopic mind. weekday evening you can be entertained and educated with the Great Art on Screen series (a collaboration between The Bascom and PAC.)

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rom October to May, most Saturday afternoons the Highlands Performing Arts Center will be presenting the Live via Satellite Series; featuring the MET Opera and the National Theatre of London, and on a

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At 1:00 P.M. Saturday, March 7, the National Theatre of London will screen Hansard, by Simon Wood. Set in 1988, Robin Hesketh returns home to his wife of 30 years, Diana. As the day draws on, what starts as gentle ribbing of marital sparring quickly turns to blood-sport, a humorous and moving new play.

At 12:55 P.M. Saturday, March 14, the MET Opera will present live from NYC, Wagner’s Der Fliegende Holländer. Sir Bryn Terfel returns to the Met for the first time since 2012, as the mysterious seafarer searching for salvation. Director François Girard, whose mesmerizing production of Parsifal recently wowed Met audiences, returns to stage Wagner’s eerie early masterwork. This has a runtime of 2:44 hours and there will be a pre-opera discussion beginning at 12:30 P.M.

On Wednesday, March 25, at 5:30 P.M., Great Art on Screen will feature the documentary, Frida: Viva La Vida. This is a documentary that highlights the two sides of Frida Kahlo’s spirit: a revolutionary pioneering artist of contemporary feminism, and a human being tormented by agony and love. With Asia Argento as narrator, the two faces of the artist will be revealed by pursuing a common thread consisting of Frida’s letters, diaries, and private confessions. The documentary will alternate interviews with historical documents, captivating reconstructions, and Frida Kahlo’s own paintings, kept in some of the most amazing museums in Mexico.

Tickets are available online at highlandspac.org or highlandsperformingarts.com, or at the door.

Highlands Performing Arts Center is located at 507 Chestnut Street.

by Mary Adair Trumbly

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DINING Pages 52-60

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the fine art of

Brunchi ng

Brunch HQ, located at 137 Main Street in Highlands, is a rare oppor tunity to luxuriate in this most languid and passionate dining experience.

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n previous restaurant reviews I’ve recounted the importance of breakfast as the cornerstone of a healthy day and ultimately a productive life.

But in all those reviews, all those imprecations to enjoy this all-too-rushed morning ritual, I never turned my attention to Brunch, breakfast’s more civilized and elegant sister.

Brunch is an embossed invitation to savor the exquisite suite of palate provocateurs offered by the finest of breakfast and lunch choices.

It’s a chance to share bites with someone you love; and a golden opportunity to kindle friendships at a large, loud table. I can’t recall a brunch crowd that didn’t feature lively conversations punctuated with explosions of laughter. It seems to me that brunch is a meal that’s an undeniable celebration.

All of this brings us to Brunch HQ, the new spot

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dedicated to this most lively of meals. It’s located at the corner of Wright Square in Highlands and serves as a lively beacon of sunshine, especially on the gloomy days here before the season gets rolling.

Tricia and I arrived on one of those mornings.

Now I know some of you are cynically saying, “But Luke, you were just making the case that brunch is for big bunches of people coming together for a meal and conversations!”

Well, I never said that two people couldn’t have lively conversations interrupted by laughter. That’s one of the reasons Tricia and I so enjoyed our visit.

And here’s further proof that the rules are different, more relaxed for brunch – after our meal, rather than hustle out the door and get lost in our busy day, we lingered and joined in a conversation with the 10-top at the center of the dining room.

Normally, I’d be loathe to interrupt another table.

But this was a cheerful group of friends and they

were more than willing to talk about their dining experience and offer random observations. That’s the beauty of brunch – the rules are looser and the conversation is livelier.

Anyway, prior to being looped into our neighbors’ table, we settled in and enjoyed our brunch choices – for her, Eggs Benedict (two Poached Eggs over an English Muffin topped with housemade Hollandaise Sauce, served with Grits); and for me, The Lox Plate (a generous serving of Toasted Bagel, served with Smoked Salmon, Cream Cheese, Red Onion, Capers, and red, red Tomato).

And right here, the Magic of Brunch.

Tricia reminisced about happy, effervescent brunches (because, come on, where else is she going to get Eggs Benedict?) with friends who’ve since left this world. What happy, bittersweet stories served up with a knowing, wistful smile.

For me, sunshine-infused memories of

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Amanda Lewis

business breakfasts in London with Scandanavian businesspeople who looked like models and spoke better English than I. Loads of stories, lots of laughs.

Brunch HQ specializes in serving locally-sourced eggs and the meats (bacon, sausage, and sandwich meats) are produced at Hickory Nut Gap Farm, just down the road. The milk and cream comes from the good cows at Hickory Hill Farm. Even the jams and jellies that adorn the toast are produced in small batches at Jarhead Farm in Toccoa, Georgia.

And here’s the thing – you can taste that freshness, that attention to detail in all the dishes coming out of the kitchen. Our choices were served with aplomb and well-earned confidence. This is the epitome of comfort food.

For our new friends at the adjoining table, it was Shrimp and Grits (laced with Locally-Sourced Chorizo Sausage, an unexpected delight made to a Southern Brunch Classic ); Avocado and Swiss Crostini; and Buttermilk Pancakes (jammed with a heap of fresh blueberries).

Of course, there were other dishes on that liveley

table, but the conversation was so fluid and haphazard that I couldn’t record other impressions.

This carefully calibrated atmosphere, which allows a normally reserved restaurant reviewer to strike up

I woke up this morning to serve you.

an animated conversation with an adjoining table, is maintained by the presence of owner Amanda Lewis, who pinballs amongst the tables with a relentlessly cheerful manner. (A favorite phrase of hers is, “I woke up this morning to serve you.”)

Oh, and before I wrap this up, let me state with unalloyed enthusiasm that Brunch HQ has a marvelously indulgent selection of baked goods, produced fresh daily in that marvelous kitchen, creations that you can take home with you.

As I write this, I’m nibbling on a scone from their kitchen. And Amanda is firm about maintaining an

array of gluten-free pastries. This is wonderful news for people like my writing partner Les Scott, who mourns the disappearance of so many treats from his carefully-maintained world.

Brunch HQ is located at 137 Main Street (Wright Square) in Highlands. Call (828) 820-8686 for largeparty reservations, otherwise stroll on in.

Oh, and one more thing (I know!), Brunch HQ maintains a selection of board games, which is perfect for a languid brunch among friends and loved ones.

However, somewhere in that stack is a copy of Scruples. Do not choose this game!

I don’t want to be included in a nasty lawsuit, so instead, the next time you see me around and you have a few minutes, ask me about the wince-inducing Game Night that I endured that featured an explosive game of Scruples and allowed me to witness the fracturing of two marriages.

Stick to Scrabble!

by Luke Osteen

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South’s Most Acclaimed Chefs Storied chefs Bill Smith and Justin Burdett will bring their skills and their storied recipes to Half-Mile Farm, March 28.

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n March 28 Half-Mile Farm will host the next in their popular “Chefs in the House Series.”

Launched in January 2019, the always sold-out dinners offer an “up close and personal experience with some of The South’s most acclaimed chefs.”

The March dinner welcomes Bill Smith and Justin Burdett; past and present chefs of Chapel Hill’s venerable Crook’s Corner, winner of the James Beard Classic America Award.

Bill Smith, arguably North Carolina’s most beloved chef, reigned over the stoves at Crook’s for more than three decades before passing the baton to Burdett last January.

Both gentlemen may be familiar to locals. Smith originally visited Highlands as one of the guest chefs at a tribute dinner in October 2018 to Louis Osteen, and returned last November as a celebrated chef at Highlands Food and Wine Festival. Burdett was formerly at the helm at Ruka’s Table in Highlands.

In the pantheon of celebrated Southern chefs, Smith’s reputation looms large. Garden and Gun Magazine said, “Bill Smith is a big deal,” responsible for keeping Crook’s Corner (“sacred ground for Southern foodies”) at the center of the modern Renaissance in Southern cooking.

The Bitter Southerner credits him as having played pivotal roles in the evolution of Southern Culture in general. In the 1980’s, his nightclub Cat’s Cradle welcomed Southern musicians of all stripes. Since the 90’s he’s pioneered the Farm-to-Table movement and led one of the most important restaurants in the region. Recognized as a foremost expert on Southern food, Smith is the author of Seasoned in the South: Recipes from Crook’s Corner and From Home, and the more recently published Crabs and Oysters.

More than a list of ingredients, Smith’s recipes tell stories. His dishes, both an expression of his love for seasonally-focused Southern cooking, and a

playful nod to personal experiences – whether they be an ode to the simple yet elegant fare at the East Carolina table of his Great Grandma’s; a culinary trip to New York City, or a walk through a maze of food carts in Mexico. Moreover the recipes seem to have been wholly invented by him while at the same time always with us.

Most recently, Burdett opened Local Provisions in Asheville, North Carolina, though he’s worked throughout the state and for Hugh Acheson at 5 & 10 in Athens, Georgia, and Stephen Satterfield in Atlanta. He is “dedicated to maintaining the integrity behind Crook’s Corner and the dishes that everyone knows and loves. To make sure that Bill and (former partner) Gene can walk through the doors years from now and not only recognize the legacy that they built, they will still be proud of it. Yes, you can expect to see new, seasonal dishes, but classics never die.”

On the menu at the dinner at Half-Mile Farm are legendary dishes from Crook’s Corners; Southern comfort food classics, and beloved old standards: Deviled Eggs, Broiled Oysters, Bourbon Chicken Liver Mousse, Ants on a Log (that is celery stuffed with peanuts – a dish originally created for children), Green Tabasco Chicken and most famous of all – Atlantic Beach Lemon-Lime Pie made with a saltine crust. Dishes simple and timeless all, a testament to the culinary traditions Smith forged and elevated; now entrusted to the prowess of Burdett.

Dinners are limited to 55 guests and sell out early. More details on the Chefs in the House series can be found at halfmilefarm.com/chefdinners.

by Marlene Osteen

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M

any of you know J.T. Fields.

From the Recipe File of J.T. Fields J.T. Fields’ remarkable Roast Chicken with Wilted Greens is comfor t food of the highest order.

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The former co-owner of Mountain Fresh Grocery is a local celebrity of sorts.

To many of his customers he was a beacon – a broadsmiling, enthusiastic dude who seemed to know more than anyone should about the mysteries and glories of food and wine.

Perennially energetic (those of us in the store referred to him as “Our Ninja”), Fields was forever doling out passionate descriptions of his favorite wine selections along with cooking tips and recipes.

Indeed, Fields has an intuition for combinations of flavor and texture and foods of everyday elegance – expertise that comes from a past stint as a sauté cook in a high-end restaurant.

For now, food is no longer a profession, but simply a pleasure and cooking a way of sharing his pleasure with others. As he does in this simple supper that combines two favorites from his childhood; an effortless recipe for roast chicken – a dish that is alternately referred to as “the little black dress of cooking” and “the litmus test for any good chef ” – served with wilted greens.

From JT Fields: “There are few things more satisfying than a well roasted chicken. Fancier, yes.

More complicated, certainly. But the aromas of a

golden bird coming out of the oven ranks up there with sautéed onion or bacon. A nostalgic item for me is a wilted leaf salad. Growing up, I must have eaten thousands of these and for me the star of a wilted lettuce salad is the combination of fat (usually bacon grease) and the acid of lemon or vinegar. In the following recipe, I take advantage of all the savory drippings in the roasting pan and put them to good use on the salad with a little help from some bacon” Roast Chicken with Wilted Greens Ingredients 1 whole 5-pound Chicken, trimmed of excess fat Salt and freshly ground pepper 5 slices Bacon ¼ Yellow Onion 1 Lemon 1 TB Red Wine Vinegar Mixed Greens Step 1: Heat oven to 450 degrees. Wash the chicken thoroughly in cold water both inside and out. Pat it dry with cloth or paper towels. Sprinkle it generously with salt and pepper, rubbing it with your fingers over all its body and into its cavity. Place ¼ of the lemon and the onion in the bird’s cavity.

Step 2: Place the chicken breast side up in a roasting pan and cook basting once or twice for 30 minutes.

DI NI NG Reduce the heat to 350 degrees – or if the chicken begins to char, or the fat is smoking sooner. Roast for another 20 minutes and then lay the bacon carefully in the bottom of the pan. Continue roasting and basting 25 minutes more or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165 degrees.

Total cooking time should be about 75 minutes.

Step 3: Remove the chicken from the roasting pan and set on a plate to rest for 10 minutes. As the chicken rests, remove the bacon from the pan and chop.

Pour the drippings from the pan into a clean skillet and place over medium heat. Add any juice that has collected under the chicken along with the chopped bacon, Dijon mustard, vinegar or 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Whisk until everything is incorporated and a creamy dressing is formed.

Step 4: Cut chicken into pieces, cutting the breast meat into slices. Divide the chicken among plates, place the greens alongside the chicken and spoon the warm dressing over the greens.

J.T. Fields

by Marlene Osteen

57 M A RC H 2020 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

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59 M A RC H 2020 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

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Ad On Page

Take Out

Outdoor Dining

Live Entertainment

Dress Code

Reservations Recommended

Vegetarian Selections

Full Bar

Meals

The Restaurants of the Highlands Cashiers Plateau

Wine

Plateau Dining Guide

Children’s Menu

thelaurelmagazine.com/cuisine

HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS 64 Highlands Plaza

4118 Kitchen + Bar

(828) 526-5002

B, L, D, SB n n

n C n 54

The Bistro at Wolfgang’s

460 Main Street

(828) 526-3807 D n n n n NC n n

Brunch HQ

137 Main Street

(828) 820-8686

The Dive In Food Trailer

476 Carolina Way

Fire + Water Restaurant

Reservations Required

The Kitchen CarryAway & Catering

L n n C n

(828) 526-4446 (828) 787-2990

L ,D

350 S. Fifth Street

(828) 526-2110

L, D

Smallwood Avenue

Lakeside Restaurant

n C n 55

(828) 526-2200 D n n C n 56

465 Main Street

Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar *

B, L, SB

5

17

n n n C n n 57 n n 55

(828) 526-9419 D n n n n n NC n n 58

445 Main Street

(828) 787-2525

L, D, SB

n n n n NC n n 61

490 Carolina Way

(828) 526-1019

L, D, SB

n n n C n n n

330 Main Street

(828) 526-2277

L, D

n n

Highway 64 (Franklin Road)

(828) 526-2338

D, SB

n n n n n NC n n n 58

Paoletti’s

440 Main Street

(828) 526-4906

Tug’s Proper

310 Main Street

(828) 526-3555

L, D, SB

n n n n C n n 59

298 South 4th Street

(828) 526-8364

L, D, SB

n n n C n n 56

460 Main Street

(828) 526-3807

D

25 Frank Allen Road

(828) 743-3000

L, D, SB n n n C n n 56

45 Slabtown Road

(828) 743-7711

B, L, SB n C n n 54

Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden Meritage Bistro Midpoint On the Verandah

The Ugly Dog Pub Wolfgang’s Restaurant

D n n

4

n n NC n n n 50

n n NC n 59

n n n n NC n n

5

CASHIERS AREA RESTAURANTS The Ugly Dog Pub Zookeeper B Breakfast

L

Lunch

D Dinner

SB Sunday Brunch

HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS 4118 Kitchen + Bar - (828) 526-5002 Altitude’s at Skyline Lodge - (828) 526-2121 Asia House - (828) 787-1680 Brunch Headquarters - (828) 820-8686 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 Calder’s Coffee Cafe - (828) 526-0020 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 Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar (828) 787-2537 The Kitchen CarryAway & Catering - (828) 526-2110 Lakeside Restaurant - (828) 526-9419 The Log Cabin - (828) 526-5777 M-brace - (828) 787-1212 Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden - (828) 787-2525 60 M A R C H 2 019 | T H E L A U R E L M A G A Z I N E . C O M

*

Takeout Only

Dress Code: C Casual

Meritage Bistro - (828) 526-1019 Midpoint (828) 526-2277 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 Tug’s Proper - (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 Buck’s Coffee Cafe - (828) 743-9997 Canyon Kitchen - (828) 743-7967 Chile Loco - (828) 743-1160 Cornucopia Restaurant - (828) 743-3750

NC Nice Casual

J Jacket

Cork & Barrel Lounge - (828) 743-7477 El Manzanillo - (828) 743-5522 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

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Ad On Page

In Room Microwave/Fridge Cable/Satellite TV Banquet Facilities Wireless Internet Pet Policy

Accommodations on the Highlands Cashiers Plateau

Pool Whirlpool Rooms Exercise Facility

On Site Restaurant

Plateau Lodging

On Site Bar/Lounge

thelaurelmagazine.com/lodging

HOTELS / MOTELS / BED & BREAKFASTS 19386 Rosman Hwy | Sapphire

blackbearlodgeofsapphire.com | (828) 553-6535

Fire Mountain

700 Happy Hill Rd | Scaly Mountain

firemt.com | (800) 775-4446

Greystone Inn

220 Greystone Ln | Lake Toxaway

thegreystoneinn.com | (828) 966-4700

Half Mile Farm

214 Half Mile Dr | Highlands

halfmilefarm.com | (855) 271-7246

445 Main St | Highlands

oldedwardsinn.com | (866) 526-8008

The Chateau

Highlands

thehighlandschataeu.com | (561) 613-1496

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■

112

Fairview House

Highlands

highlandsfairviewhouse.com | (866) 526-8008

■ ■

■

42

5078 Whiteside Cove Rd | Highlands

whitesidecovecabins.com | (828) 526-2222

Black Bear Lodge of Sapphire

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

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102

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VACATION RENTALS

Whiteside Cove Cottages

■

■ 18

VACATION RENTAL AGENCIES Berkshire Realty Vacation Rentals

488 Main Street | Highlands

meadowsmountainrealty.com | (828) 526-1717

63

CCP Vacation Rentals

507 Main Street | Highlands

rentinhighlands.com | (800) 684-2171 x 302

2

401 N 5th St | Highlands

highlandsiscalling.com | (828) 526-3717

85

17 US Hwy 64 E | Cashiers

landmarkvacations.com | (877) 926-1780

48-49

Silver Creek Vacation Rentals 341 Hwy 64 W, Ste 102 | Cashiers

ncliving.com | (828) 743-1999

24-25

Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals Landmark Vacation Rentals

HIGHLANDS 200 Main - (855) 271-2809 Berkshire Realty Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-1717 CCP Vacation Rentals - (800) 684-2171 x 302 Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-3717 The Chandler Inn - (678) 982-8406 The Chateau - (561) 613-1496 Fairview House - (866) 526-8008 Half Mile Farm - (855) 271-7246 Highlands House Bed and Breakfast - (828) 787-1186 Highlands Inn - (828) 526-9380 Highlands Inn Lodge - (828) 526-5899 Highlands Resort Rentals - (828) 526-5839 The Inn at Mill Creek - 828-526-9999 The Lodge at Old Edwards - (828) 787-2560 Lullwater House - (423) 488-2799 Main Street Inn - (828) 526-2590 Mitchell’s Lodge & Cottages - (828) 526-2267 62 M A RC H 2020 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

Old Edwards Inn and Spa - (866) 526-8008 Park on Main - (800) 221-5078 Ray’s Roost - (678) 534-6870 Skyline Lodge - (828) 526-2121 Whiteside Cove Cottages - (828) 526-2222 SCALY MOUNTAIN: Fire Mountain - (800) 775-4446 CASHIERS Cashiers Village Inn - (828) 743-7706 High Hampton Resort - (800) 334-255 The Lakehouse - (904) 753-0247 Landmark Vacation Rentals- (877) 926-1780 Laurelwood Inn - (828) 743-9939 Mountain Vacation Rentals - (828) 743-0258 The Orchard Guest Cottage - (828) 743-7614 Pebble Creek Village - (828) 743-0623 Reid Resort Rentals - (828) 743-5955 Silver Creek Vacation Rentals - (828) 743-1999

GLENVILLE: Innisfree Bed & Breakfast - (828) 743-2946 Mountain Lake Rentals - (828) 743-6875 Prime Property Rentals - (828) 743-3482 LAKE TOXAWAY Cabins at Seven Foxes - (828) 877-6333 Greystone Inn - (828) 966-4700 Lake Toxaway Realty Company - (828) 508-9141 SAPPHIRE Black Bear Lodge of Sapphire - (828) 553-6535 Club Wyndham Resort at Fairfield Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-3441 Foxhunt At Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-7667 Hampton Inn & Suites Cashiers-Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-4545 Mt Toxaway Lodge & Motel - (828) 966-4582 Sapphire Run at Whisper Lake - (863) 412-5734 Whispering Falls - (352) 470-4085 Woods at Buc - (770) 714-9211

SHOPPING Pages 66-74

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The Summer House

Dusty Rhodes Superette

The South Side of Town

F

The winding ribbon of Highway 106 South offers a new, rich dimension to the Highlands Shopping Experience.

or some first-time visitors to Highlands (and even some people who’ve lived on the Plateau for decades), the Highlands Shopping Experience extends for a couple of blocks along Main Street.

This is a bit puzzling, since serious shoppers know that the avenues leading in and out of town are laced with businesses offering unique treasures and services, each deserving of a careful browse. Since they’re not part of a chain, each offers a unique, deeply personal shopping experience.

Take 106 South (The Dillard Road). At first glance it’s a two-lane road connecting Highlands with Georgia. But make that trip with a discerning eye and you’ll be astonished by the possibilities that spring up like partridgeberry along the roadside.

Dusty Rhodes Superette is a Highlands institution. They’ve been purveyors of fine food and exceptional service for more than 65 years.

This butcher shop and deli offers everything from homemade jellies and baked goods to salads and sandwiches. Their wine selection is a small, hand

66 M A R C H 2 019 | T H E L A U R E L M A G A Z I N E . C O M

selected collection of customer favorites. Check out their weekend specials and their complete, ready to cook meals. They’re open Tuesday – Saturday, 9:00 A.M. to 5:30 P.M.; and 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. on Saturday until May. Call (828) 526-2762.

The Summer House offers complete home furnishing services from single pieces to entire homes, including porch and patio, dining and bedding, and living room décor. Take advantage of their long-distance program and have that special piece shipped anywhere in the country.

They’re open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Call (828) 526-5577 or email summerhousehighlands@brmemc.net.

If you’re looking for a little local flair to add to your décor, check out Peak Experience. They specialize in American handcrafts, local pottery and estate and handcrafted jewelry. Their inventory is constantly changing, so there’s always something new to discover.

Hours vary by season, so please call (828) 526-0229.

ACP Home Interiors is a one-stop shop for the home. Featuring upholstery, slip covers, case goods,

gifts, jewelry, lighting, rugs…the list goes on and on.

New shipments arrive every month. Come by to check out their new upholstery lines and talk to Kerri about custom bedding. They’re open by appointment until May when their hours shift to Noon to 5:00 P.M.on Mondays, and 10:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Tuesday through Saturday. Call (828) 526-4500 or email at acphighlands@gmail.com.

Cake Bar, located at 2254 Dillard Road, is an easy getaway and a dazzling showcase for the baked goods of owner Kristi Henderson and her family. The centerpiece of this entire operation is the addictive flourless chocolate cake known as “Chocolate Heaven,” but you’ll find an eye-popping selection of cakes, pies, scones, muffins, things with names like Cranberry Orange Cheesecake, Grilled Banana Bread with Bourbon Sauce, and Praline Ice Cream. You can come in for a slice or a piece and pair it with coffee, tea and espresso, or a something from the curated selection of wines – red, white, bubbly and dessert – by the glass and the bottle. Or you can take your selection home and become a legend in your home or

SHOPPI NG

The Blue Elephant Consignment Studio

ACP Home Interiors

your community. For more information, call (828) 421-2042, but this is one of those places that you should really visit.

Full House Gallery, opening this month, will sell furniture on consignment, original art, and inspirational home goods, along with kitchen and home design by Susan Elizabeth Interiors. (828) 526-6609. Come in at 66 Highlands Plaza or email interiors@fullhousegallery.com The Blue Elephant Consignment Studio has an amazing selection of furniture, rugs and accessories for your home. Their inventory is constantly changing so there’s always something new to discover. From old hickory pieces to modern, light and airy styles, they have something for everyone. They’re open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Call (828) 526-9948 and check them out on Facebook and Instagram.

Getting ready to remodel? Talk to Phillip Potts or Yance Thompson at Highlands Doors and Windows.

The Cake Bar

Peak Experience

Their showroom displays all kinds of different doors and windows, plus all sorts of hardware and specialty products, such as phantom screens. Let them help you pick out the perfect accents for your mountain escape. They’re open Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.. Call (828) 526-3719 or email highlandsdw@frontier.com.

At Highlands Decorating Center, “Service is our most important product.” Whether you’re looking for tile or hardwood flooring or a special color of paint, their skilled installers and paint specialists are here to exceed your expectations. They adapt to the individual needs of each customer, let them help you turn your house into a dream home. They’re open Monday through Friday from 7:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M., and Saturday from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Call (828) 526-3571.

Recently renovated with fresh paint and new décor, Bryson’s Food Store still offers the freshest meat, seafood and produce available. Peruse their superior wine department and unmatched selection of craft and

domestic beers. The deli is the place to go for daily lunch specials and premade dinners. They’re open every day from 7:30 A.M. until 6:30 P.M., and until 7:30 P.M. in season. Call (828) 526-3775 or email Brysonsfoodstore@mindspring.com.

Crown Heritage Flowers is the go-to place for all things fresh and floral. Formerly Cosper’s Flowers, the new owner, Danielle Hartsfield Chambers, is breathing new life into this Highlands mainstay. The shop now offers a wider selection of cut flowers, potted plants and arrangements for any occasion with a focus on local and sustainable sources. With their competitive prices, you won’t find a better bang for your buck anywhere else. Crown Heritage Flowers is open Monday through Friday from 10:30 A.M. until 5:30 P.M. and Saturday from noon until 4:00. Call (828) 526-8671.

by Ashley Stewart

67 M A RC H 2020 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

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JUST LIKE GRANDMA’S Or better! This small-batch, handmade indulgence comes in three varieties: Traditional, Chocolate Chip and Bourbon Walnut.

Banana Bread | $12 Cake Bar | Highlands

MAKE YOUR MARK

Express yourself with a custom stamp! Fun for addresses, monograms, even wedding and birth announcements.

s k c i P u a e t P la

Custom Stamp | $ 45 The Business Spot | Cashiers & Highlands

a fe w o f o u r fav o r it e fi n d s

THE ART OF COCKTAILS

GATHER ‘ROUND THE FIRE

Farm-fresh and natural ingredients shouldn’t be just for the table.

These shrubs are infused with local fruits, herbs and spices. Great for cocktail mixers, mocktails, dressings and marmalades.

We are in love with these outside fire pits crafted from natural stone. Relax and unwind with a good book and glass of wine, or gather your loved ones for a perfect evening of entertaining.

Farm 2 Cocktail Shrubs | $22 Brunch HQ | Highlands

Boulder Fire Pit | Assorted Sizes & Prices Chattooga Gardens | Cashiers

68 M A R C H 2 019 | T H E L A U R E L M A G A Z I N E . C O M

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LAUGHTER & LIBATIONS These hilarious beverage napkins will spice up any party. A witty collection to get the conversation started and the laughs going.

Cocktail Napkins | $ 4.95 Stork’s Wrap, Pack & Ship | Cashiers

DRESS LIKE A DOG

Nothing says ‘Highlands’ like the iconic clothing line of The Ugly Dog Public House. Wave your Highlands f lag high!

Sweatshirt $ 48 | Cap $18 The Ugly Dog Public House | Highlands

YOGA BONANZA

Feel good, look good in Cashiers Valley Fusion’s collection of yoga wear and essentials.

EKO Yoga Mat | $92 Essential Camo Set | $ 45 Recycled Foam Yoga Block | $16 Cashiers Valley Fusion | Cashiers

SPRING BLOOMS

If you’re ready to banish winter and usher in spring, these f loral arrangements will have your home feeling totally fresh with the scent and colors of the season.

Spring Bouquet | Prices Vary Crown Heritage | Highlands

69 M A RC H 2020 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

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Danielle Hartsfield Chambers

Crown Heritage Flowers Crown Heritage Flowers, located at 95 Highlands Plaza (nex t to Br yson’s Food Store), is passionate about f lora and ar t.

I

t’s easy to be enchanted by Crown Heritage Flowers in Highlands Plaza.

For one thing, it’s quiet. Not a Hospital Zone kind of quiet, but a Zen-like hushed forest quiet.

And then there are the subtle colors. Lavender and cheeky pastels, setting a backdrop for little explosions of green. And a rainbow of blossoms that give the place an undeniable sunniness.

And there’s the air itself. It’s the smell of loamy earth, the kind that rises just before a sweet summer thunderstorm. That’s contrasted with the scented air of those blooms, which give out a dozen perfumed grace notes.

Then of course, at the center of everything is owner Danielle Hartsfield Chambers. A force of nature herself, she’s the animating spirit behind this supremely sensual business.

“We took over from Cosper Flowers at the first of the year with the goal to carry on the warmth and love they had for flowers into this next decade,” says Danielle.

“We hope to honor that 21-year tradition by continuing to provide beautiful arrangements and gifts for every

70 M A R C H 2 019 | T H E L A U R E L M A G A Z I N E . C O M

budget – we believe that luxury should be affordable for all people and that the language of love has no price. Crown Heritage is a full service operation, with customers able to purchase blooms by the stem or have our skilled floral team create them a bespoke, one of a kind flower arrangement or custom gift basket. We also do events, from private to corporate and weddings and are contracted to work with several Highlands businesses on a full-time basis.”

If that sounds ambitious, well, it is.

“My parents, David and Jessica Hartsfield, instilled in me a good work ethic and perseverance during my upbringing – both have been my biggest champions in this world,” she says. “ During my attendance at Western Carolina University, I met my now-husband Kasey Chambers, a born and bred Highlander, who

and her husband decided that Highlands was the perfect spot to settle down.

With help from her friend Marjorie Crowe and mother-in-law Karen Chambers, Danielle learned the art and intricacies of flower arranging and floral artistry at Cosper Flowers.

“I also took the initiative to be the best florist I could be, keeping late hours as I sat up at night doing flower arrangements and practicing techniques in my living room floor.

“We now have a storefront located centrally in Highlands right beside Bryson’s Food Store featuring a plant room, a vast selection of vases, plant pots and other vessels, and gifts such as jewelry and artwork by local artists. We provide seasonally available flowers and pride ourselves on having the freshest, well-

taught me that something existed beyond the school.”

Meeting and falling in love with Kasey proved critical in the path that brought Danielle to Crown Heritage Flowers.

After graduating and finding her way in the fields of childcare and cloud system administration, Danielle

rounded stock year-round. Our store hours are from 10:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. Monday through Friday; and noon to 4:00 P.M. Saturday; and closed on Sunday. For more information, call (828) 526-8671.”

by Luke Osteen

A

#1 S

VOLUME B 2020

R

OK

S LE

THE

DE

CASHIERS, NC

FO

R

ER

Beth Townsend C PAST DE

A

TIME FLIES WHEN YOU’RE DOING WHAT YOU LOVE, WHERE YOU LOVE TO BE. My commitment to real estate buyers and sellers this past decade landed me in the position of #1 sales volume broker in Cashiers.* Additionally, within our MLS, McKee Properties was the #1 office in total dollar volume sales during the past 10 years.* Looking ahead, I’m thrilled about 2020, which will mark my 27th year as a broker in Cashiers! If you or someone you know is considering selling property or purchasing within the area, I would love to help.

Here’s to another successful decade!

© DICK DICKINSON

If you are currently working with a real estate professional, this is not a solicitation. *reflects total dollar volume from 1/1/09 to 12/31/19 according to data from the Highlands-Cashiers Board of Realtors Multiple Listing Service

During 2019, Beth Townsend represented the buyer and/or seller on the property with THE HIGHEST CLOSING PRICE in these communities: BIG SHEEPCLIFF

CEDAR HILL

CEDAR RIDGE ESTATES

LAKE GLENVILLE

(buyer)

(buyer & seller)

(buyer)

(buyer & seller)

$2.03 million

$2.8 million

$870,000

$6.5 million

BETH TOWNSEND,

beth@cashiers.com

CL H M S ™ / GUILD™

c 828.421.6193

Broker/Owner

o 828.743.3411

LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC MINNIE COLE HOUSE / 619 Hwy 107 South / Cashiers, NC 28717 / McKeeProperties.com

Visit Our Advertisers WEST BEN

(Factoid: Franklin was named after Benjamin Franklin) 1. On The Verandah Restaurant 4. The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts 5. The Dave Drake Ceramic Barn at The Bascom

SOUTH DILLY

13. 4118 Kitchen & Bar 15. Dauntless Printing 20. Crown Heritage Flowers 27. Lupoli Construction 32. The Laurel 33. Studio 106 36. ACP Home Interiors 37. The Summer House Bed & Bath 38. The Summer House 45. Blue Elephant Consignment Studio 46. Head Innovations 47. Cake Bar & Chocolate Heaven

MAIN STREET

103. Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center 124. Landmark Realty 128. Tug’s Proper 135. Midpoint Restaurant & Lounge 152. Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty 160. TJ Bailey for Men 169. Country Club Properties 178. McCulley’s II 180. White Oak Realty Group 185. Ristorante Paoletti 190. Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro 191. Berkshire Hathaway Homes Services Meadows Mountain Realty 194. Old Edwards Inn 195. Madison’s Restaurant 196. The Wine Garden 197. Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar 202. Country Club Properties 207. Creative Concepts Salon

WRIGHT SQUARE on MAIN

(Factoid: Named after Whiteside hero) 111. Brunch HQ 113. Edward Jones 117. Country Club Properties

72 M A RC H 2020 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

ON THE HILL

310. McCulley’s 312. The Ugly Dog Public House 313. Old Edwards Inn 318. Peggy Crosby Center: - The Kitchen Carry Away & Catering 319. Lakeside Restaurant

SOUTH CHURCH

403. Warth Construction

OAK STREET

601. Highlands Playhouse

VILLAGE PARK

613. John Cleaveland Realty

CAROLINA VILLAGE 704. Creekside Village: - Cake Bar 707. Yoga Highlands 708. Cabin Couture 709. High Dive 710. Meritage Bistro 711. Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals

SPRUCE SQUARE

801. Green Mountain Builders

CHESTNUT & LAUREL 904. Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center 904. Highlands Cashiers Players 905. Fairview House

OUT NC 106

➡ Peak Experience ➡ Fire + Water

OUT 64 WEST ➡ Half Mile Farm

OUT 64 EAST

➡ Tia Dana ➡ WHLC ➡ Black Rock Granite ➡ Center for Plastic Surgery ➡ Highlands Cashiers Hospital ➡ Cullasaja Club ➡ Roman’s Roofing

OUT HORSE COVE ROAD ➡ Whiteside Cove Cottages

Being added to our listing is easy!

Simply advertise with The Laurel.

73 M A RC H 2020 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

Visit Our Advertisers SLABTOWN

VISIT LAKE TOXAWAY

NORTH 107

VISIT NORTON:

2. Zookeeper Bistro

NC 107

Greystone Inn

16. Stork - Wrap. Pack. Ship.

19. The Look Boutique

Rd

Black Bear Lodge Sapphire Valley Real Estate 1-6

bto wn

30. Bombshell Hair Boutique

Slab Town

37. Landmark Real Estate Group

23 24 25

16

33 18

64

64. Alexander Gardens: - Victoria’s Closet - Victoria’s Closet Shoes & Purses - VC for Men 75. Carolina Rustic Furniture 76. Blue Ridge Bedding 79. Jennings Builders Supply

157-159 163

171

ch de esi Chur hit W rian e byt res

173, 174 P

172 175

an hl ig H To

SOUTH 107

102. TJ Baileys for Men 103. Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming 108. Landmark Realty 109. Ugly Dog Public House 110. McCulley’s 123. Caliber Fine Properties 128. Mountainworks Custom Home Design LTD. 136. McKee Properties 137. Bounds Cave Rug Gallery 141. Holley Heating

THE VILLAGE GREEN 143. The Village Green

WEST 64

155. Cashiers Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center 156. Creekside: - Silver Creek Real Estate Group 173. Betsy Paul Properties 175. Srebalus Construction 176. Lenz Gfts

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164

Communaity Plaz

155

Christ Church of the Valley 156 148

14

147

151 3 154 15 149 152 0 15 156

161

Vill

162

168

165

er Cent Rec 166

ds

VILLAGE WALK

80. A-List Antiques 81. Josephine’s Emporium 89. Nearly New Furniture Consignment 99. Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Meadows Mountain Realty

160

170

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OUTDOORS Pages 78-85

OUTDOORS

Photo by Peter Ray

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OUTDOORS

the magic of

Secret Falls S

Secret Falls is a little jewel that’s just a little bit off the Beaten Path.

ecret Falls is a hidden gem nestled just south of downtown Highlands that makes for an excellent day hike.

A half-mile hike leads to a multi-tiered Secret Falls off Horse Cove Road. Visitors can see the falls from the top, by the swim hole at its base, or a riverbend downstream with several small drop-offs. The view from the bend in the river is a 180-degrees of waterfall splendor.

Brandon Anderson made the trip from Waynesville and said he had the day off and wanted to hike something in western North Carolina.

“I thought it was awesome,” said Anderson. “It’s tucked away down here so it’s not crowded, and it’s not too much of a hike and it’s really scenic.”

There are two creek crossings that are spanned by logs and the trail is well marked by blue rectangles making it easy to follow.

Directions from Highlands: Head east from Highlands on Horse Cove Road and drive approximately four miles and turn right on Walking Stick Road.

Directions from Cashiers: Drive southeast on Highway 107 for approximately two miles and turn right on Whiteside Cove Road. Travel approximately nine miles on Whiteside Cove Road and turn right onto Horse Cove Road. Drive a mile and turn left on Walking Stick Road.

From Walking Stick Road: Drive approximately three miles to an intersection and stay right over a one lane bridge, do not turn left onto Rock House Road. Drive a quarter mile to FR 4567 on the right.

This road is gated but visitors can park at the gate. Hike down FR 4567 a quarter mile to Secret Falls Trailhead on the left, marked by a small signpost. Follow blue rectangle trail markings to Secret Falls.

by Brian O’Shea, Plateau Daily News

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OUTDOORS

Green’s the Theme A trio of simple ideas can ensure the arrival of glorious green in local gardens.

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arch is named for Mars, and we all know the original green thumbs come from Mars, right?

Well, maybe they’re green all over, but green is still the theme for March considering St. Patrick.

If you practice the three P’s, you may notice more green all season, not to mention those green with envy when they see your plants. We’ve all heard of things similar in nature as being as close as two peas in a pod, but in gardening there’s another P that begs to be crammed into the pod.

Planning – March is the perfect time to plan your garden, whether it’s containers, a small plot or a whole landscape. Just in case you don’t get enough already, there’s a website (thespruce.com) that offers over 50 free seed and plant catalogs.

If you’d rather save a tree, there are probably online versions as well. You need to know your planting zone, and the amount of sunlight your garden area has.

The rest is like looking through a Christmas wish book. Another part of planning is preparing the garden area. (Oh my! Is that another P?) It’s time to start watching for things like Hostas emerging from their sleep, and with them comes slugs and snails. The jury is still out on the truth of this method, but placing crushed egg shells or coffee grounds on the ground around your plants may well keep the pests away.

Pruning – March is probably the last chance to prune roses, and other summer blooming shrubs and bushes. Pruning helps contain the size and shape you want, and improve flowering.

Pruning snippers are necessary for the ends of smaller branches, but use a sawtype blade or heavy duty ratchet clipper to remove dead or diseased branches from the bottom of the plant. “Nip ‘em in the bud,” doesn’t apply, so don’t prune spring blooming plants – wait until just after those have bloomed.

Planting – Just about the only planting going on in March will be indoors. Now is the time to start your seeds in order to have a good head start for spring planting.

The adage that works in our area is, “Don’t plant anything until after Mother’s Day.” That’s good advice. Indoor seed planting, whether in a Dixie cup or two, or a full tray of Jiffy pots is your decision.

by Jeannie Chambers, The Accidental Gardener

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OUTDOORS

My Day In March Not sure what to get Matt for his bir thday? That’s easy, a quiet day alongside a bold mountain stream!

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he month of March can symbolize a lot of different things to a lot of different fly anglers.

Here in North Carolina, it means the start of the Delayed Harvest Season, a start to a new fishing season, and the beginning of changing springtime weather.

Flowers and trees are starting to show their buds, and songbirds start singing a little bit louder. It’s a special time of year for many reasons, but I’m going to tell you why it’s a special time of year to me.

March is my birth month…March the 11th to be exact. Every year, right around my birthday I make it a point to take a day just for me.

That’s right, even though we may be friends, and even good fishing buddies … you’re not invited. I have been taking this day for me for more than 15 years now.

Sometimes things change a bit, but there is a criteria that I try to shoot for on this day: 1) It’s a full day fly fishing outing…not a couple-hour quick fix 2) The destination for the day must be a place I am very unlikely to see another human being 3) The goal is to catch wild, rising trout on a bamboo fly rod.

Now, I must say that over my last 36 birthdays, a vast majority of them have had a fishing theme. Growing up, there was a lot of farm pond fishing, some coastal fishing, and only in the last 17 years has it had a strict fly-fishing-for-mountain-trout theme. I haven’t always had a bamboo fly rod, and I haven’t always had the knowledge of places where I could go catch fish and not see another sole.

Now I do have those things though, which is why I make myself use them on this day.

The whole point of this day is to remind myself why I love the great sport of fly fishing.

I go by myself so I can slow down and enjoy things at my own pace. I bring the bamboo rod not because it’s a better tool to help me catch more fish (that’s certainly not the case), there’s just something nostalgic about fishing it. I fish dry flies in order to see if I can fool a fish into coming to the surface to take my ball of fur and feathers for food…and get to watch him do it. This day is the exact opposite of seeing how many fish I can catch, it’s all about truly enjoying every part of the day, and taking it all in.

Some people may call this being a “trout snob,” and maybe rightly so, but no one has ever been there to tell me so.

by Matt Canter, Brookings Anglers

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OUTDOORS

a fine flyer

Filled with Song

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OUTDOORS

T

he Carolina Wren, State Bird of South Carolina, produces some of the loudest, most distinct vocalizations in the forest.

Its various calls and songs, intoning dozens of phrase patterns, have been described by Sibley as “a rolling chant of rich phrases pidaro pidaro pidaro or TWEE pudo TWEE pudo TWEEP and other variations.” Calls are “a harsh, complaining zhwee zhwee zhwee…; a descending, musical trill.” Expect loud variations. Some bird watchers mnemonically mimic its most common call as tea-kettle tea-kettle tea-kettle.

This wren, given the formidable Latin name of Thryothorus ludovicianus, thrives in a range that reaches Maine and Canada to the north, Texas to the south and the eastern U.S. from the Atlantic coast to Iowa. With some regional variation, this small bird—sleek in the summer and often puffed up for warmth in the winter—sports rich reddish-brown plumage on its back and wings, an orange-buff belly and chest, a white throat and long supercilious white streak or eyebrow. The wren tail, long for its body size and decorated with dark bars, is usually held in an upright, cocked position, to be characteristically

lowered while singing.

Wrens are among the best flyers in the woods, darting from branch to branch and tree trunk, using its loud call to establish its presence in its territory and scold intruders. Bushy thickets and other dense

oil sunflower seeds and most forms of suet including suet made at home inexpensively from peanut butter, cornmeal, flour and lard.

Happy March birding from the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society. Our birds are relatively quiet during cold winter months, occupying mixed flocks and trying to survive instead of seeking mates. Offering them bird feeders helps sustain those who have lost habitats and food sources.

The Highlands Plateau Audubon Society, focused on 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 .

The Carolina Wren’s prodigious song catalog is matched by its bold plumage. vegetation in the forest understory offer a perfect habitat for one who darts around finding beetles, bugs, grasshoppers, ants, spiders, bees, lizards and tree frogs.

Male and female mate for life, which might be as long as ten years. Both build and tend the nest. When 3-6 eggs hatch after two weeks’ incubation, both male and female feed and tend the hatchlings until they fledge in another two weeks. The couple will raise two or three broods during a breeding season.

Wrens will come to bird feeders, both seed and suet, and provide many opportunities for observation and study or just simple enjoyment. They favor black

by William McReynolds, Highlands Plateau Audubon Society

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OUTDOORS

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mong the large diversity of native plants in the Botanical Garden of the Highlands Biological Station, Oconee Bells (Shortia galacifolia), is quite possibly the most fabled wildflower of the region.

Photo by Clay Bolt

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It was first described by the French botanist, Andre Michaux in 1787 and not found again until 1877. The 19th century American botanist Dr. Asa Gray described it as “perhaps the most interesting plant in North America”. Shortia galacifolia is a rare evergreen, perennial ground cover that is endemic to a few counties in the Carolinas where it grows along stream banks and in shaded, moist coves.

Oconee Bells has always been a rare plant, but it became even more limited as the creation of Lakes Jocassee and Keowee destroyed about 60 percent of the historical population. Scientists from the Highlands Biological Station conducted a biological inventory of the soon-to-be inundated watersheds in the 1960’s and relocated some Oconee Bells to the Botanical Garden where they continue to thrive today. It produces

OUTDOORS

rare

Oconnee Bells

The diminutive, charm-laden Oconee Bell makes its spring return to the shaded glades of the Highlands Botanical Garden.

delicate, white to pinkish, bell-shaped flowers from March to April.

We are gearing up for their annual bloom and are extending an invitation to anyone interested in seeing this beautiful plant up close. Follow the Highlands Biological Station on Facebook (@highlandsbiologicalstation) to get updates on when these plants begin to bloom so you can join us for our very first Shortia Jubilee, a celebration of these wildflowers.

The Highlands Botanical Garden is open year-round from dawn until dusk and has recent improvements such as a brand-new pollinator garden and outdoor teaching pavilion that you can visit while wandering around the trails in search of our treasured Oconee Bells.

The Highlands Botanical Garden is part of the Highlands Biological Station, a multi-campus center of Western Carolina University.

by Charlotte Muir, Highlands Biological Station

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H ISTORY

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HISTORY Pages 88-90

H ISTORY

Sixth-generation Highlands native Isabel Hall Chambers

The Appalachian Dulcimer The sweet sounds of the dulcimer have been par t of the Appalachian cultural landscape since the arrival of the Scotch-Irish.

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f you’ve been to the Cashiers Farmers Market at the Village Green during the summer, chances are you’ve seen a band of good ol’ country folk filling the air with harmonious bluegrass melodies.

Everyone is familiar with the stereotypical bluegrass instruments: fiddles, banjos, the occasional cello.

The most beautiful of them is the mountain dulcimer.

There is no instrument that is more distinctively Appalachian than the dulcimer. It first appeared in the Scotch-Irish immigrant communities of the Appalachian mountains around the beginning of the 19th century. It is related to several European instruments, such as the Swedish hummel and the German scheitholt, but the dulcimer itself is a uniquely Appalachian instrument.

Early settlers did not have the materials or the

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expertise to make more complex instruments like the violin, but their love of music didn’t stop them.

They did the best they could with what they had and created an instrument that would come to serve as the centerpiece for traditional folk music.

Those first dulcimers were made from a single hardwood, such as walnut, oak, cherry or apple; whatever was most abundant around where the instrument maker lived. The dulcimer has less dramatic curves than a violin and comes in many different shapes and sizes. Instead of the neck and fretboard being attached to the top of the sound box like violins and guitars, it is laid across the top of the sound box.

Rather than being held against the chest or shoulder like most stringed instruments, the dulcimer is designed to lay flat across the players lap or on a

table. It can have as few as two strings or as many as a dozen, but a typical dulcimer has three to six.

The player plucks and strums the strings with the right hand, while ‘fretting’ with the left hand. With fewer strings and a simple fret pattern, the dulcimer is relatively easy to learn.

The dulcimer’s popularity isn’t limited to the Appalachian folk music tradition. Contemporary artists such as Brian Jones of The Rolling Stones, Joni Mitchell, and Cyndi Lauper are all talented dulcimer players. Dulcimer festivals are held in Canada, the United Kingdom and Ireland.

by Ashley Stewart

H ISTORY

Highlands First Mayor

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The judicious habits of Stanhope Hill made him prosperous and ensured that Highlands’ f irst mayor was endowed with prudence and common sense. n the late 1870s Highlands was still struggling to get a solid footing on the Plateau.

But in 1878 a powerhouse came roaring up the mountain from Horse Cove in the guise of Stanhope W. Hill and wife, Celia Edwards Hill. Stanhope lived in Horse Cove over 30 years before heading for Highlands.

While a resident of the Cove, he’d judiciously managed his affairs, financial and otherwise, while serving as Horse Cove’s first Magistrate and Postmaster.

As a result, he became one of the most successful land owners in the region.

In Highlands, his son Frank built him a white Victorian frame home on the southeast corner of Sixth and Main which today is known as the Staub Cottage.

His former slave, Dan, accompanied him and lived in a cabin in the back of the cottage. Dan was buried in the family plot at the Little Church in the Wildwood

in Horse Cove.

The Hill House served as a boarding house to many newbies looking to settle in the region. Dr. Richard Martorell, the cottage’s present owner, says one of the building’s windows bears the etching, “The first piece of glass brought to Highlands, 1883.”

The year 1883 was very important for the Hills and Highlands, for in it Stanhope helped stabilize the town’s early growth by serving as its first mayor.

To learn more about Highlands history, its colorful

Stanhope Hill

characters, and its mountainside ups and downs, read Ran Shaffner’s Heart of the Blue Ridge. For additional info, go to highlandshistory.com or email highlandshistory@nctv.com.

by Donna Rhodes, Photo courtesy of Highlands Historical Society

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H ISTORY

When Panthers Roamed These Hills

Pursuing predator y panthers and bears was a serious business that demanded quick ref lexes and a measure of courage bordering on foolhardy.

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any generations back in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina, people were outnumbered by the wild animals of the forests.

Several times a year, every homesteader had to deal with monstrous six-foot long black panthers with a tail as long as their body. Sheep, piglets and fowl had to be cooped up at night for safety, or one of them would be killed by a panther and dragged off to its den.

Many a daybreak farm scene would have the panther “treed” by dogs barking and waking up everybody in the household. The homesteader would grab his rifle only to see away up in the tree tops a large black cat that at the sight of the man with a rifle would leap from one tree to the next, getting away and heading back to Panthertown. The only way to kill a panther was to shoot it right in the eye. No doubt this is how William Comer “Panther Bill” Peek from the Ellijay community of Macon County got his name.

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From newspaper accounts, I learned that in the Fall of 1874, a hunting party consisting of Joseph Dodgens from the head of the Toxaway River, Charles N. Jenks from the head of the Cullasaja River, and Milton Moss and his son, Dan Moss from the village of Hamburg, were camping out on the spine of the Blue Ridge inbetween the peaks of Little Hogback and the Great Hogback Mountain near the Jackson and Transylvania county line.

Sharpening their blades while sitting around a campfire, the men’s conversation led to Joe Dodgens being asked how many bears had he killed over his lifetime?

“I can’t tell exactly, but I can count up over 300 and think I have killed over 400.” Lying around the fading embers of the campfire, they could hear a panther’s shrill screams from over in Panthertown Valley. Besides their hunting knives, the men had their old-time flint and steel long-barreled Kentucky Gillespie rifles.

Other famous skilled hunters from that section of the Blue Ridge were Bobby McCall of Whiteside Cove and Rodrick Norton, who had moved from the Cove to the hills above Hamburg in his later years.

McCall and Norton had powerful strong bodies and were absolutely without fear of man or beast. In an instant, they would come to the aid of a friend or favorite dog in peril with just a knife. Both men could show scars left by a bear’s teeth and claws.

by Jane Nardy, Historian, Cashiers historical Society

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LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

Will Your Money Last as Long as You Do?

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hat do your fellow citizens fear most? Almost half of them – 49 percent – are most afraid of running out of money during retirement, a higher percentage than the 44 percent whose chief concern is failing health, according to a recent survey by Aegon Center for Longevity and other groups.

What steps can you take to help ensure your money will last as long as you do?

Here are a few suggestions: • Estimate your longevity. None of us can say for sure how long we’ll live. However, you can make some educated guesses based on your health and family history. And once you do have at least a ballpark figure, you can then determine about how much money you may need to last the rest of your lifetime. A word of caution: It’s probably going to be more than you think.

Health care costs alone can run into the hundreds of thousands, even with Medicare.

• Determine when you’ll retire. Your retirement age will have a big impact on how long your money can

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last. The longer you work, the more you can contribute to your retirement plans, such as your IRA and 401(k).

Plus, if you have health insurance through work, you should be able to cover some of the out-of-pocket healthcare costs you’d normally have to pay if you’re retired.

• Invest as much as you can in your retirement.

During your working years, contribute as much as you can afford to your IRA and your 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plan. And every time you get a raise, try to increase the amount you put into your employer’s plan.

• Protect yourself from long-term care costs. If you’re fortunate, you’ll never need any type of longterm care, such as an extended stay in a nursing home or the services of a home health care provider. Still, there are no guarantees, and long-term care expenses can be big enough to threaten your retirement savings.

The average cost for a private room in a nursing home is about $100,000 per year, while a home health aide costs about $50,000 per year, according to the insurance company Genworth.

Medicare typically pays just a small portion of these

amounts, so you may want to purchase a long-term care insurance policy that will pay for qualified long-term care costs. Or you might consider a “hybrid” policy, which combines long-term care protection with life insurance. So, if you never needed long-term care, your hybrid policy would pay a death benefit to your beneficiary, but if you did need the care, your policy would pay benefits toward those expenses.

• Choose an appropriate withdrawal rate. During your retirement, you’ll need to withdraw money from your IRA, 401(k) and other retirement accounts. But you’ll want to avoid taking out too much each year, especially during the early years of your retirement. It’s important to establish an annual withdrawal rate that’s appropriate for your needs, taking into account your age, sources of income, lifestyle and other factors.

The thought of running out of money during retirement is scary indeed – but by making smart choices, you can go a long way toward alleviating this fear and enjoying your life as a retiree.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by Mary Beth Brody, Edward Jones Financial Advisor

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

How Mighty Are Your Mitochondria?

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There’s a lot going on in those little cells of yours – tiny engines working hard to keep you safe and healthy. he mitochondria are the powerhouse of each and every cell and are very important to your life in general.

Most cells have many (over 800) mitochondria inside of them, providing the necessary energy, or ATP, for function. This process involves using glucose from food or stores in the body and oxygen to complete the process of cellular respiration.

Mitochondria have many important functions, including energy production, cellular replication and detoxification.

Many of our current diseases, especially autoimmune diseases, are the result of mitochondrial damage, or stress. Chemotherapy, for example, is known to cause systemic mitochondrial stress, which further compromises the body and causes the person receiving it to feel miserable.

Other disease processes like Lupus, MS and Fibromyalgia are all known to be mitochondrial

diseases, further damaging the body due to the resulting severe dysfunction of every cell’s mitochondria.

What can we do to improve our mitochondrial function to bring us back to health? To repair and provide the necessary components of energy production, here are the top four support supplements to improve our cellular function by supporting mitochondrial function and energy production.

The first is N-Acetyl Cysteine, known to replenish Glutathione, a very powerful antioxidant that protects the liver and kidneys from damage due to oxidative stress.

The second is amino acid L-Carnitine, helping to provide the energy necessary to keep the cells and mitochondria functioning optimally.

The third is Coenzyme CoQ10, more well-known around heart function and statin drug use. Statins are known to deplete the body’s supply of CoQ10, which primarily depletes the cells and muscles of the proper

energy production, sometimes leading to muscle weakness and soreness.

The fourth most important supplement for improved mitochondrial function is Alpha Lipoic Acid, most known for helping the cells convert nutrients into energy.

For anyone undergoing chemotherapy treatment, it is essential to support the functioning cells that you do have through natural means (fruits, vegetables and clean food) as well as supplementing the body with these essential nutrients.

Now that we have a much better grasp on the Mighty mitochondria, maybe we’ll pay more attention to an anti-inflammatory diet, proper supplementation and great health choices for the long run.

by Dr. Sue Aery, Aery Chiropractic & Acupuncture

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LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

Tom Neal

Supporting Our Healthcare System New CEO Tom Neal brings a new vision for Highlands-Cashiers Hospital.

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om Neal was named chief executive officer and chief nursing officer for Highlands-Cashiers Hospital in December.

He brings more than 30 years of progressive healthcare experience and a diverse skill set in acute care, behavioral health and post-acute operations.

Tom most recently held CEO positions at hospitals for Community Health Systems (CHS). During his time with CHS, he served as Chief Executive Officer of both Berwick Hospital Center in Berwick, PA, and Greenbrier Valley Medical Center, Ronceverte, WV. As CEO of Berwick Hospital Center, Tom helped to rebuild their primary care physician base and also helped bring about significant improvements in patient experience scores, safety and quality outcomes.

All of this means he brings a deep knowledge of the possibilities and pitfalls that come with taking the reins of a small rural hospital.

“Of course, we’re all aware of the physician and nursing shortages which are accentuated in rural areas,” Neal says. “That’s why we’re addressing

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factors that are barriers to potential employees, partnering with local colleges like Southwestern Community College and Western Carolina University to support healthcare education, creating a culture

facility,” he says.

Neal says every day he’s presented with evidence of that strong community support.

“The Plateau is truly a beautiful place with wonderful people who truly care about their hospital,” he says. “The community is very …creating a culture that engaged and supportive of the hospital and makes H-C Hospital a the Fidelia Eckerd Living Center. great place to work “Anecdotally, I just had the opportunity to meet with members of The Mountain and practice…

Garden Club. They’ve invested an enormous amount of time tending the garden of the that makes Highlands-Cashiers Hospital a great Eckerd Living Center. With the advent of spring, this place to work and practice, and leveraging parent garden will be beautiful and a blessing to the residents company Hospital Corporation of America’s (HCA) and their families, and the staff, who can certainly use strong recruitment resources.” a daily dose of tranquility and beauty.

Neal is quick to point out that the hospital already “That’s just one example of how the Highlandsenjoys advantages not found in many healthcare Cashiers community is making this hospital a facilities found in small communities. remarkable asset for everyone.”

“At its core, Highlands-Cashiers Hospital has several factors that ensure we can achieve our goals for delivering first-rate healthcare – great staff,

by Luke Osteen strong community support, and an outstanding

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

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LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

Spring Forward Well Rested

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fter rock climbing with my husband around the country, we were called to Highlands by the vertical and timeless granite domes.

Ashby Underwood works one-on-one with clients and teaches classes and retreats locally and abroad.

She believes that a life well lived is one full of vitality to do what you love with whom you love. Reach out to her at ashby@yogahighlands.com.

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The nature of the tall rock and trees make an interesting study on light, which reveals itself differently than light on a horizontal coast. The Cherokee called this area “Nantahala” (“Land of the Noonday Sun” or “The Place Where the Sunlight Looks Beautiful Down Through the Trees”).

Within the body bio-sensors track the visible light of the sun, and its position relative to the earth through the seasons. Humans coordinate the day’s activities, mealtimes, growing seasons, and sleep cycles on this ingrained inner observation of the outer world.

We’re all too familiar with the move to Daylight Saving Time in March. I’ve also heard this spring forward referred to as “Losing an Hour.” For my family, we are absolutely happy for the longer evening light, and stretch out dinners and playtime to maximize our waking time together.

But at what cost?

Our body clocks are intrinsically tied to light. When

we spring forward and lose that hour, we may need to cope with a feeling of deprivation, especially if we tend to have a deficit of good sleep ongoing. We live in a world that stimulates our interests through distraction, and technologies which mask our body’s signal for rest. Healthy sleep is essential and new studies show catching up on lost sleep is nearly impossible.

Here are my tips to roll with the time change: - Give yourself enough time for eight hours of sleep; - Eat lighter and earlier for good digestion; - Don’t take naps longer than 20-30 minutes; - Limit caffeine after lunch; - Create a relaxing night time routine (soak in the bath, reading books, candles) - Meditation practice, sit, breathe and observe quietly While the shift to Daylight Savings Time is a welcome sign of spring, it may take awareness to adjust to that lost hour. Honoring our unique rhythm with nature is a form of self-respect and assists us in moving through life with integrative balance.

by Ashby Underwood-Garner LMBT, Yoga Highlands, Certified Rolf Practitioner and Yoga Therapist

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

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LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS This year marks The Laurel’s Year of the Woman. It’s a joyful celebration of the 100th anniversary of American women being given the right to vote. Each issue, we’ ll be spotlighting the women of the Plateau who’ve immeasurably enriched the lives of their families, their communities, and the world itself.

This month, we’ ll reveal how that sweet woman attending the weekly Highlands Community Dinner played a vital role in ending the Second World War. It’s a secret she’s kept close to her heart.

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atherine Taylor’s arrival in the Tessentee community in Macon County 94 years ago wasn’t terribly auspicious.

Catherine Taylor at Oak Ridge, 1945

Bird Seed Physics

Catherine Taylor labored in secrecy to help win the Second World War.

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Born critically premature, she weighed in at twopounds, two-ounces, and looked, in the words of her father, “like a skinned squirrel.”

The attending doctor could offer her parents no reassurance, simply stating that if she could survive through the night then it was possible that she’d live, though she could only be given warm, fresh cow’s milk.

Thanks to around-the-clock care from her parents and what must have been a titanium-enriched will to live, Catherine (or Miss Catherine as she’s known throughout the Plateau) not only survived, but thrived, becoming a hard worker on her family’s farm and graduating from Franklin High School.

Upon her graduation, she and four other local girls were recruited by a man from a company called Tennessee-Eastman, who offered clerical work for a

new project. Since the Second World War was raging and college was too big of a financial stetch, Catherine accepted the job without knowing any details, only that she’d be shipped to Tennessee.

That place in Tennessee turned out to be Oak Ridge, the secret site of the effort to secure enriched uranium for the atomic bomb that was being developed in Los Alamos, New Mexico.

Though she didn’t know it at the time, Catherine would be one of the players in a drama that would see the defeat of Imperial Japan and the end of World War II. “We weren’t allowed to talk about our work, even among ourselves, and we weren’t allowed to say anything in letters home,” she says. “When we arrived in buses at the gates of the facility, all of our suitcases were opened and everything was dumped out on the ground while they went through it. We were stipped down to our underwear and given uniforms steel-toed shoes, and ID badges with numbers, because we were going to work.”

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

In all, Catherine had to pass through four levels of security just to get to her work site.

Pledged to secrecy and working in a clandestine facility that stretched over two counties in Tennessee, she labored to sustain a controlled nuclear reaction that would produce weapons-grade uranium. It was a tedious, nerve-racking process that required extreme levels of concentration and a supreme control of her reflexes as she manipulated dials on the massive calutrons that regulated the process. She still didn’t know what the gauges were measuring, but there was no time to relax or contemplate the deeper meanings of those eight hour shifts.

Since the entire procedure was based on an understanding of cutting-edge particle physics, Catherine’s supervisor told her to imagine that she was measuring and sorting bird seed.

Something about that analogy proved helpful,

Catherine Taylor

because Catherine began a controlled reaction that she and her team of women (they were all women who worked in the cubicles in her building) would sustain for up to 600 hours.

This landmark achievement allowed Oak Ridge to meet the deadline for the desperately needed uranium, although she and her crew didn’t know it – they continued their exacting work in secret.

Finally, one evening in August 1945, she and her co-workers were told that a new kind of bomb had been dropped on Hiroshima in Japan, and that their labors had ensured that this “atomic bomb” was successfully deployed.

The use of this devastating weapon and another a week later at Nagasaki, forced the Japanese to surrender and brought World War II to a close.

With the project disbanded, Catherine underwent two weeks of medical testing before she was allowed to leave Oak Ridge and return to the mountains. She says that many of her co-workers, if not most, have died of cancer.

When you run into Miss Catherine (she still stays busy in her community, especially in the senior JOY Group at Highlands United Methodist Church, activities at First Baptist Church and the Highlands Community Dinners at the Community Building), she comes across as a sweet, quiet woman, who’ll start an easy conversation about virtually any topic you wish.

You’d never guess that the vital work Catherine did in absolute secrecy helped America win the Second World War.

by Luke Osteen

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LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

modern farm resort

Julep Farms Celebrate your Happiest Day with the Love of Your Life, family and friends, and a f lock of absolutely adorable sheep.

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here’s a special energy that rolls through the gentle foothills and valleys of Dillard, Georgia, in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Delicately perched in one of these mystical valleys is the area’s newest and most exciting Resort and Wedding Venue, Julep Farms.

This “Modern Farm Resort” is like nowhere else you’ve been. You can sleep in luxury and gather fresh farm eggs, all in the same day. Then, pick your own wedding bouquet in their two-acre flower field as the property’s darling miniature ponies look on. With sweeping views of the rolling hills and mountains, it’s easy to imagine saying, “I do” in one of the picturesque meadows surrounding the Farm.

Some of the farm’s residents include horses, cows, and chickens, to name a few. If you, like me, are into the four-legged kind of friends, make sure to visit with their “Babydoll Sheep” (yes, that’s a thing!). These super soft and fluffy creatures are known for their

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friendliness and docility. Fun Fact: In textile terms, their fleece is in the 19- to 22-micron range, which means it’s similar to cashmere and can be worn next

for everyone, including several health-minded and vegetarian options. After dinner, twirl with your honey in front of their stacked-stone fireplace as you

to the skin without being itchy and uncomfortable.

Proving they are much more than just a pretty face!

Once you’ve had your fun frolicking with the animals and marrying the Love of your Life, it’s time to unwind and raise a glass in celebration.

Lucky for you, filling your glass with delicious libations is one of the Julep Bar’s specialties. They have a mix of the classics − think Mint Juleps and Manhattans − as well as a few specialty and signature drinks. My favorite is the Chipotle Fig Margarita with a combination of Tanteo Chipotle Tequila, Agave Nectar, freshly-squeezed Lemons and Fig Preserves.

After a few drinks on the outside Fireplace Terrace, invite your guests into the generously-sized Social House Private Event Area for dinner and dancing.

The Julep Kitchen’s “New American Cuisine with a decidedly Southern twist” offers up something

take your first dance as newlyweds, and then party the night away.

The best way to top off a perfect day at Julep is to enjoy a night-cap under the incredibly starry skies that seem to hang within arm’s reach above the Farm. If you’re lucky, the fireflies will be glowing as the hum of the cicadas lulls you into an even more relaxed space.

It’s effortless to be mellow here.

On your way out, don’t forget to shop at the beautifully curated Julep Market. Pick up some of their farm-grown herbs to take home with you and try, as we do, to make this special place last forever in your senses.

You’ll leave better than when you got there!

by Shayna Bigazzi

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

S

hayna Bigazzi is the owner of Altaterra Events, a luxury event production company serving the Southeast, Europe, and the Caribbean.

Before starting on her own she worked with the Special Events team at Old Edwards Inn & Spa. Earlier in her career, Shayna lead the Turks and Caicos launch of Martha Stewart’s Beaches & Sandals Weddings (a partnership between the publishing giant and Luxury Resorts in Turks and Caicos and across the Caribbean). Shayna resides in Highlands with her husband and two island pups.

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SB E URS V I NI C EE SS

ACCOMMODATIONS

ACCOMMODATIONS

BEAUTY

BEAUTY

CABINETRY

CLEANING

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SBEURS V I NI CE ES S

CONSTRUCTION

HEATING/COOLING

HOME CARE

HOME DECOR

PICTURE FRAMING

PRINTING

REAL ESTATE

ROOFING

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GIVING BACK Pages 106-111

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pring on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau is truly magical with the emergence of our diverse assemblage of wildflowers. This emergence almost seems like it happens overnight but it is a process that has been underway since the fall. There is a race to emerge, flower, get pollinated, and set seed before the light disappears with canopy closure.

The Tip of the Spear It’s show time! Spring wildf lowers are making a dramatic entrance in local forests and meadows.

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However, this race cannot start until the risk of freezing is over. Emerge too soon and you freeze, emerge too late and you run out of light. The plants actually develop the new shoots in the fall; when pumped up with water in the spring, they become full grown plants.

The other hazard to being a plant in the forest is leaf litter. In the fall the forest floor is covered with a thick layer of leaves. This means there is a layer of leaves between the dormant plants in the ground and the light above. Nearly all of the wildflower’s emerging shoot is shaped like the tip of a spear, so it can pierce the leaf litter. This spear is common in the Lily family and a high percentage of the spring wildflowers are members of this group, which includes the trout lily, Solomon’s seal, and the trilliums.

The environmental cue that triggers flowering in plants is primarily soil temperature. With continued climate warming and change, we may see earlier and earlier emergence of wildflowers, resulting in a complete mismatch with their pollinators that are cued to emerge by day length.

By some estimates the spring in 2019 was three weeks earlier than 2010. Hang on, because the next few years could be an interesting time here in the Western North Carolina mountains.

The Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust conserves over 3,400 acres in over 100 places that help to protect the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the incredible diversity of biota in southern Macon and Jackson Counties. Join us at hicashlt.org.

by Julie Schott, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust

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hen a nine-year-old child on a Friday afternoon, completely unsolicited and out of the blue, looks up to you and says, “This has been the best week of my life,” well… you just know you’ve done something extraordinarily special in someone’s world.

That’s what Critter Camp at the CashiersHighlands Humane Society does for local animalloving children.

The quote above is what a wonderful Critter Camper named Katya said to me during a Friday “graduation hike” at the end of a week’s camp last summer.

Last summer’s four weeks of Critter Camp were so enormously successful that we have expanded to seven weeks in 2020, including an extra week of spring break camp and two additional weeks for older children.

Each week of camp features fun, immersive and interactive experiences with animals at our no-kill shelter; humane education programs including canine body language and dog bite prevention, responsible pet ownership and the importance of spay/neuter; dog obedience and training demonstrations; plus exciting guest presentations by visiting veterinarians, wildlife biologists, and law enforcement K9 officers.

Each week of Critter Camp has a maximum of

12 children and runs from 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, and the cost for the entire week is just $250. Thanks to our generous donors, scholarships and financial assistance are available.

The schedule for Critter Camp 2020 is as follows: March 9-13 (spring break for first- through fifthgraders at Blue Ridge School); April 13-17 (spring break for first- through fifth-graders at Highlands School and Summit Charter School); June 15-19 (rising second- through fifth-graders); June 22-26 (rising sixth- through eighth-graders); July 13-17 (rising second- through fifth-graders); July 20-24 (rising sixth- through eighth-graders); and August 3-7 (rising second- through fifth-graders).

For more information, please call (828) 743-5752 or email jodi@chhumanesociety.org.

Established in 1987, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit animal welfare organization located at 200 Gable Drive in Sapphire, on Highway 64 East. Visit us online at CHhumanesociety.org. Tax-deductible donations to support our lifesaving work can be mailed to: CHHS, P.O. Box 638, Cashiers, NC 28717.

by David Stroud, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society

Camp Is Calling & I Must Go A series of Critter Camps allows the CashiersHighlands Humane Society to explore and strengthen the bonds between children and animals.

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The Role of a Mentor Becoming a Big Brother or Sister enriches the life of the mentor and one ver y special child.

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ow many of you remember having a special person in your life that you knew you could turn to for support, advice or even just to have a casual chat with? Who was that person that impacted your life in such a way that when you reflect on your lifetime growth, you attribute credit to their influence?

Most of us have had someone in our lives that we knew we could turn to when times got tough, or someone we could count on for advice; a person who was a positive role model during our youthful years.

Though we considered these individuals to be our friends, and indeed they were, they were also filling a very important role in our lives – the role of a mentor.

A mentor is someone who, generally speaking, works with someone younger than them to help guide and encourage growth and development in their mentee.

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Mentoring youth has countless positive effects on both persons in a mentoring relationship. The Big Brothers/Big Sisters 2018-2019 statistics reports demonstrate the growth made by children participating in a one-to-one mentorship relationship within the program.

Through establishing friendships with a purpose, children are showing increased self-confidence, coping skills, communication skills, interest in school, growing leadership skills and much more! Youth within the program are continuously progressing in their social and emotional development through their interactions with their mentors.

Bigs (mentors) in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program are benefiting just as much as the Littles (children in the program) are!

The opportunity to give back and share in learning through experience has equally increased selfconfidence and overall community involvement and

awareness of the individual Big. Are you looking for a meaningful way to give back?

Your local program coordinator of Big Brothers Big Sisters of WNC – Cashiers and Highlands would love to share more with you about the Big things that are happening with the program and about how you can become a Big Brother or a Big Sister to a child within your community.

For more information on how you can become a Big, please contact Danielle Hernandez, program coordinator of Cashiers and Highlands, at (828) 399-9133 or by email at cashiers@bbbswnc.org. For additional resources, please visit bbbswnc.org.

by Danielle Hernandez-Juarez, Big Brothers Big Sisters

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couple walking their two dogs every evening. A group of bird watchers with binoculars looking for Redbreasted Nuthatches. A young mother with her toddler swinging, slidin’ and climbing. A family enjoying a picnic lunch.

Neighbors attending a concert together.

Someone searching for a new original art acquisition or a unique gift for a friend. An individual curious to learn more about the natural and cultural features of the area.

What do all of these have in common? They have all found their place in The Village Green.

For more than 25 years, The Village Green has been a park for the people. Residents and visitors to the Cashiers area have benefited from a shared public space where people from all walks of life and interests come together.

The Village Green features pathways that wind through expansive grassy areas, beautiful gardens, forest glades and across wetlands. The expansive playground, the Village Play, is a favorite place to local families and those just passing through .

The Village Green is also the host location for private special events each year including birthday parties, barbecues, family reunions and weddings

as well as public events such as naturalist speakers, concerts, craft shows, festivals, patriotic and religious observances. The new indoor venue for education, performance, innovation and community events at The Village Green Commons will open in May and will provide space for year-round programming.

The 2020 calendar has numerous and diverse opportunities for enjoying the park. The Village Green has something for everyone!

Despite the park’s tremendous popularity, few people realize that The Village Green is not a government funded park. The Village Green is a vital asset for the area that counts on donors to invest and preserve its community legacy. If you enjoy The Village Green, please consider making a financial contribution. To learn more about The Village Green, the 2020 calendar of events and how to contribute, visit www.villagegreencashiersnc.com.

by Ann Self, Cashiers Village Green

A Park for the People Even though it never actually went into hibernation, The Village Green, Cashiers’ People’s Park, springs into exuberant life with the advent of warmer weather.

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GI V I NG BAC K

Sue Blair

Being a Farmer Ain’t for Sissies

Ranching and Farming on the Plateau is not for the Faint of Hear t.

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eing a farmer in the mountains is not for sissies or the faint of body!

Year-End financial gifts to Carpe Diem have once again helped to bring the hay to the herd. It’s a very blessed day when the semi-truck arrives on the farm and the arduous task of unloading nearly nineteen ton of orchard grass from an Amish farm in upstate New York.

There are very few drivers up to the task and I marvel when my hay broker, Don Frank from Southern Pines, coordinates the efforts year after year to get this outstanding hay to us. We purchase two truckloads a year, second cutting. One arrives late summer and the other load is stored in New York for us until needed in the winter to assure we have the same product.

You may ask why we go to so much trouble. It’s a matter of sugar and carbohydrate content as well as the quality of hay without chemicals.

We have metabolic horses – borderline type 2 diabetics. We follow the “Safer Grass” research. As with people, it’s a balancing act and with horses there is no medicine, only diet, feed and hay, to manage their metabolic issues. When you don’t, the problems can be deadly.

Our “hay angels” have all learned over the years how important their gifts on “Giving Tuesday” are to the horses continued health and well-being. This year their collective gifts provided nearly one-half of the $10,300 cost to get the winter hay bought, delivered and loaded in the barn.

If you’d like to learn more about Carpe Diem Farms, a non-profit experiential educational foundation, “Exploring the human potential through equines,” please visit carpediemfarms.org.

by Sue Blair, Carpe Diem Farms

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Rotary Personified

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ill Edwards seems like a perfect match for the Rotary Club of Highlands.

You see him pitching in on community projects around the Plateau – the club’s Fourth of July Barbecue, Community Dinners at the Highlands Community Building, The Twilight 5K Run, and his beloved Boy Scout Troop 207.

All of that energy and commitment dovetails with the mission of the Rotary Club of Highlands, which supports causes both here on the Plateau and around the world.

And when you add in the fact that before he arrived on the Plateau, Bill had successful careers in both Banking and Fundraising, well, it was perhaps inevitable that he’d end up in the club.

“This is a well-organized, well-run club, and at its core, it’s dedicated to doing good work here,

Bill Edwards’ life is a ref lection of the principles found at the hear t of the Rotar y Club of Highlands.

Bill Edwards

with approximately 12 ongoing projects here on the Plateau,” Bill says. “Not only that, we support projects through Rotary International, like Polio Plus, which aims to eradicate polio once and for all.

That sort of fundraising is just part of the club. In

fact, at every meeting we pass around a Blue Bucket in which every Rotarian can make a contribution for one of our causes. It’s just part of the meeting.”

The club’s relentless drive to support these causes is predicated upon the FourWay Test, which is inculcated into every member’s behavior: Is it the Truth? Is it Fair to all concerned? Will it build Goodwill and Better Friendships? Will it be Beneficial to all concerned?

These four questions lie at the heart of every decision made by the club, and Bill carries those principals with him far beyond the club’s meetings.

“I try to incorporate these questions into my life,” he says. “They mirror the values that I’ve tried to instill in the Scouts that I’ve led over the years, and they make good sense in everyday life.”

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enjoy our

Secret Season

The return of the Shadow of the Bear marks the beginning of the Plateau’s “secret season.”

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uring the winter to early-spring months, the Cashiers-Highlands high-elevation Plateau comes alive during a “secret season.”

It offers visitors a wide array of experiences like lacing up ski boots and skates, reflecting in front of a crackling fire, enjoying popular year-round restaurants, and even using photo backdrops of dramatic frozen rock faces.

Another bonus? The potential of a snowy vacation or get-away. If you’re lucky enough to time your trip perfectly with the winter weather precip, you can experience firsthand the picturesque white adventure.

Other times, you may enjoy snow or flurries capping

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the mountaintops at a distance.

A visit to Cashiers, Highlands or any of the surrounding mountain communities during the secret season allows visitors the chance to unplug and unwind from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life in whatever style you may choose. You’ll have your own mountain oasis in surroundings great for both peaceful relaxation and exciting recreation.

The Plateau’s mountainous topography reveals itself amid majestic trees along scenic corridors. The Panthertown Valley Trail features winter scenes of frozen waterfalls, scenic trails and panoramic views in what is known as the “Yosemite of the East.” Granite rock faces along the local byways are transformed by

sparkling icicles. Even the icy running waters of the Tuckasegee River and other streams and lakes offer some of the best fishing during colder months. The slopes of Sapphire Valley create their own snow to ensure a fun time.

More commonly known for its fall appearance, many don’t realize that the Shadow of the Bear comes out of hibernation twice a year. From mid-February to early March, it makes an appearance for just 30 minutes on sunny days at 5:30 p.m. at the Rhodes Overlook on US 65 between Cashiers and Highlands. Since this is a lesser-known time to observe this natural phenomenon, onlookers will enjoy an unobstructed view as a small dark shadow at the bottom of the

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Kara Addy

Kara Addy Joins McKee Team Kara Addy joins McKee Proper ties to spread the luxur y real estate powerhouse’s message.

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cKee Properties, experts in luxury real estate in the Cashiers area, has added a full-time marketing director to its team.

Photo by Cynthia Strain

Cashiers Valley grows until it finally evolves into the awe-inspiring bear. Be sure to bring your camera to capture this spectacular view as the sun sets behind iconic Whiteside Mountain.

During secret season, you can also choose from packages and promotions to experience the most for the least as an added benefit. Without the bustle of summer crowds – albeit another wonderful time to visit - you’ll discover the magic and unique nature of the area and a winter wonderland full of possibilities.

by Stephanie Edwards, Cashiers Chamber of Commerce

A proven expert and accredited professional with more than 25 years of experience, Kara Addy is clearly the right woman for this demanding role.

Addy’s career has included leadership roles with institutions of higher education as well as nonprofit organizations and marketing and public relations agencies.

“McKee Properties has always put the needs of its clients first, and this investment in marketing is part of that philosophy,” said Coleen Gottloeb, broker-in-charge. “We’re thrilled to have Kara working to expand and deepen the engagement of McKee Properties across today’s digital and traditional platforms and marketing the extraordinary properties and lifestyle in which we specialize.”

Formed in 1977, McKee Properties’ history and experience in high-end real estate is unmatched in the Cashiers and surrounding area.

An Atlanta native, Addy’s work has garnered more than 20 statewide and regional awards and has been the focus of numerous presentations to marketing and communications professionals and students. She holds a bachelor of science in communications from Florida State University and the universal accreditation in public relations (APR).

After exploring and vacationing in and around Cashiers for more than a decade, Addy and her family permanently located to the area from Columbia, South Carolina, in 2018.

She and her husband, Mike Addy, are proud parents to two teenagers – a son and a daughter – who stay busy with music and theater activities. For many years, the Addys have enjoyed hiking and chasing waterfalls throughout Cashiers and Panthertown Valley and recreating on nearby Lake Glenville. In addition to hiking, Addy enjoys camping, snow skiing, taking part in group fitness classes and playing trivia.

“McKee is known in Cashiers and far beyond for its deep roots, its respect for the land and its loyal relationships with clients,” said Addy. “So, being part of the McKee Properties family and working for their clients in the region I’ve grown to love is a dream come true.”

McKee Properties is located at 619 Highway 107 South in Cashiers. For more information, call (828) 743-3411.

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BETH TOWNSEND Owner / Broker,

LIZ HARRIS Owner / Broker,

CLHMS™ / GUILD™

CLHMS™ / GUILD™

ANN McKEE AUSTIN Owner / Broker

COLEEN GOTTLOEB Broker-In-Charge

We are grateful for our clients who helped make us the #1 office in total dollar volume sales within the Highlands-Cashiers MLS this past decade.*

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PHILIP BRADLEY Broker Associate

© DICK DICKINSON

WAYNE MONDAY Broker Associate

SANDY BARROW & JOHN BARROW Sales & Listing Team / Broker Associates

PAUL COLLINS Broker Associate

LOGAN CROCKER Broker Associate

IN TO T

#1

ES SAL

OLLAR VOLUME D AL

OFFICE TH

*

FO

R

CASHIERSHIGHLANDS, NC

19

DE

09

E PAST DEC

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*reflects total dollar volume from 1/1/09 to 12/31/19 according to data from the Highlands-Cashiers Board of Realtors Multiple Listing Service

LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC MINNIE COLE HOUSE 619 Hwy 107 S / Cashiers, NC 28717 828.743.3411 / McKeeProperties.com 119 M A RC H 2020 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

YELLOW MOUNTAIN

MLS# 85322 / $6,950,000

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 CashiersHighlands Plateau at 5,100 ft 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 gentleman’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.

619 Hwy 107 S / Cashiers, NC 28717 120 M A RC H 2020 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

828.743.3411 / McKeeProperties.com

HIGH HAMPTON

MLS# 92477 / $1,295,000

Reminiscent of the good old days of High Hampton, this lovely family home is filled with charm, light, happiness and inviting mountain style.

From the long private driveway to the casual entrance that opens to the vaulted great room and on to the expansive floor to ceiling windows that frame the gorgeous view, this home will draw you in for the perfect mountain home. The spacious open great room, dining room and sun room area easily finds room for the entire family and friends. Three large bedroom suites on the main level have excellent views of Chimneytop and Rock mountains and offer easy accommodations without the hassle

of steps. The loft area above the great room provides the perfect slumber party area for the kids with 4 sets of built in bunk beds. Another room on the main level provides space for an additional bedroom or a library/ study complete with full bathroom. Two large guest suites downstairs are spacious and bright with beautiful mountain views. An expansive deck spreads along the front of the home’s upper and lower levels and is accessed from each room by large sliding glass doors. Also on the property is an adorable playhouse, tiny guest house, artist studio, or whatever one might want it to be.

LIZ HARRIS, CLHMS™ / GUILD™

828.342.3194 (c) liz@cashiers.com

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WADE HAMPTON GOLF CLUB

MLS# 89365 / $2,250,000

Located at the end of a quiet culdesac, this home nestled in the woods offers ultimate privacy and peace. A beautiful covered bridge spans three rainy day streams and leads to the front door where one is greeted by the warmth and casual mountain sophistication this home exudes. The spacious great room with vaulted ceilings, floor-to-ceiling dry stacked masonry fireplace, and walls of windows is both cozy and expansive. It flows beautifully onto the screened porch overlooking gorgeous views of Wade Hampton’s 2nd, 3rd and 4th golf holes and the mountains beyond.

The porch offers vaulted ceilings with horizontal beam accents and a stacked stone fireplace. Just off the other side of the great room is a

lovely stone terrace garden surrounded by peaceful forest and native plantings. The elegant kitchen is the perfect size with appointments fit for a chef. Just off the kitchen sits the dining area that overlooks the golf course and the mountain views. Beautiful master bedroom and cozy den/library on the main level offers plenty of main level living space. The bright lower level features tall ceilings, great views from each bedroom and a charming family room perfect for a cozy evening indoors. A two car carport complete with storage and lovely perennial low-maintenance landscaping complete this perfect home package.

619 Hwy 107 S / Cashiers, NC 28717 122 M A RC H 2020 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

828.743.3411 / McKeeProperties.com

WADE HAMPTON GOLF CLUB

MLS# 92247 / $1,290,000

This beautiful 4BR/4BA cottage’s design and finishes are current and elegant with all the spaces perfect for a mountain home. The main level offers a large great room with soaring ceilings and floor-to-ceiling stone masonry fireplace. A lovely dining area and kitchen are situated just off the great room with excellent entertaining flow to the great room and outdoor screened Carolina porch. The porch offers a floor-to-ceiling masonry stone fireplace and plenty of room for both a sitting area and dining area. The master bedroom suite on the main level also adjoins the covered Carolina porch and features vaulted ceiling and tall windows that fill the room with beautiful natural light. Another guest bedroom

and a den/office on the main level provide lovely spaces for guests to enjoy without accessing steps. Two generous sized guest suites and a large family room with kitchenette are located on the lower level. The family room and the screened patio off the family room both offer floorto-ceiling masonry stone fireplaces. Other features include powder room and laundry room on main level, additional bonus/storage space downstairs, and a two-car garage. This home is situated on a nearly level lot full of beautiful forest timbers, mosses, and ferns. It is an easy walk to Wade Hampton’s clubhouse and driving range.

LIZ HARRIS, CLHMS™ / GUILD™

828.342.3194 (c) liz@cashiers.com

McKeeProperties.com 123 M A RC H 2020 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

CEDAR CREEK WOODS

$395,000 / MLS# 91162

This cute 2BR/3.5BA 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 vaulted great room and open kitchen dining area. Guest bedroom and loft area upstairs. Covered porches on the front and back of the home. Join Cedar Creek Club and enjoy all the amenities and charm of this club located just 2 minutes from the center of Cashiers!

MOTIVATED SELLER!

LOTS & LAND

SOLD

MOUNTAINTOP GOLF CLUB

MOUNTAINTOP GOLF CLUB

MOUNTAINTOP GOLF CLUB

WADE HAMPTON GOLF CLUB

WADE HAMPTON GOLF CLUB

MOUNTAINTOP GOLF CLUB

MLS# 88606 / $1,500,000

MLS# 90108 / $500,000

MLS# 89580 / $675,000

MLS# 90630 / $475,000

MLS# 89860 / $615,000

MLS# 90107 / $475,000 MLS# 90106 / $395,000

LIZ HARRIS, CLHMS™ / GUILD™

McKeeProperties.com 124 M A RC H 2020 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

828.342.3194 (c) liz@cashiers.com

WADE HAMPTON

$1,985,000 / MLS# 88678

SAPPHIRE VALLEY

$1,200,000 / MLS# 91238

This magnificent estate-size 5 bedroom, 5 bathroom 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.

Stunning 63 acre property, bisected by Little Hogback Creek, is aptly named The Sanctuary. Enjoy beautiful mountain views while listening to the sound of rushing waters from the numerous small waterfalls. A picturesque cabin with kitchen and bath overlooks the creek, adjacent open-air bunk shelters and large decks.

WILDWOOD MOUNTAIN

WINSOME WAY

$599,900 / MLS# 92626

Curb appeal abounds as you drive into the paved, circular driveway of this charming 3BR/3BA home. Spacious great room with floor to ceiling windows and stone fireplace. Well equipped kitchen, light-filled bonus room, and an inviting outdoor deck that overlooks the expansive, well-landscaped grounds.

$349,000 / MLS# 91309

Delightful 3BR/2BA log home with split floor plan and office/family room addition. Rich wood interiors and flooring add to the mountain feel of this home. Location is very private, with three porches for views all around. Winter mountain views, with additional lot available adjacent to the property. NO CLUB MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED.

SANDY BARROW 478.737.9664 (c) JOHN BARROW 828.506.9356 (c)

McKeeProperties.com

125 M A RC H 2020 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

A community that more than surrounds you with peace and beauty, it fills you up. Here you are free to roam and run... to hike and play... to seize the day and savor the moment.

HERE AT SILVER RUN RESERVE, YOU’RE FREE TO BE.

Welcome home.

SilverRunReserve.com

Estate homesites ranging from 2–12 acres. Built cottages ranging from $1.4 –1.6 M.

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A beautifully amenitized, low-density community in

the cool mountains of

Cashiers- Highlands, Highlands , North Carolina

CREATE YOUR MOUNTAIN LEGACY TODAY.

LIZ HARRIS, BROKER / OWNER

liz@cashiers.com 828.342.3194 c 828.743.3411 o McKeeProperties.com 127 M A RC H 2020 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

A DV E R T I S E R’ S I N D E X 4118 Kitchen and Bar ACP Home Interiors A-List Antiques Around Back at Rocky’s Place The Bascom Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Betsy Paul Art Raffle Betsy Paul Properties Big and Blue Travel Black Bear Lodge Black Rock Granite and Cabinetry Blair Realty The Blue Elephant Blue Ridge Bedding Blue Ridge Music Bombshell Hair Boutique Bound’s Cave Brunch HQ Cabin Couture Caliber Properties Carolina Rustic Furniture Cashiers Chamber of Commerce Cashiers Valley Fusion Center for Plastic Surgery Robert T. Buchanan, MD Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals Charles Johnson Fine Art Photography The Chateau Chocolate Heaven/Cake Bar Christine’s Home Decor Classic Lighting & Design Consignment Market Crown Heritage Flowers LLC Country Club Properties Creative Concepts Cullasaja Club Dauntless Printing Dinner with Duffy Dining Out For Life The Dive In Food Trailer Edward Jones Investments Fairview House Fire + Water Fire Mountain Inn & Cabins

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