March 2025 | The Laurel Magazine.com

L aURe L

Mountain Heritage Series Thursday, March 20

pg. 20

Keeping Hearts in Balance

Cover Artist, Fred Crawford

Publisher’s Note

We can barely contain our excitement about the return of Spring and, of course, Highlands’ big 150th Birthday!

Throughout this issue and throughout 2025 we’ll be celebrating the people who’ve given this patch of Paradise its distinctive charm – take in Freida McCall Bennett’s sweet account of her childhood and the perpetual tranquility of a simple streetlight).

With appreciation, Janet and Marjorie

JANET CUMMINGS Managing Partner janet@thelaurelmagazine.com

MICHELLE MUNGER Art Director mungerclan5@aol.com

SARAH FIELDING Account Manager sarah@thelaurelmagazine.com

MARLENE OSTEEN Writer marlene.osteen@gmail.com

DONNA RHODES Writer dmrhodes847@gmail.com

MARJORIE N. DEAL Managing Partner marjorie@thelaurelmagazine.com

LUKE OSTEEN Editor / Writer luke@thelaurelmagazine.com

EMILY MUNGER Account Manager emily@thelaurelmagazine.com

MARY JANE MCCALL Writer mjmccall777@gmail.com

THOMAS CUMMINGS Distribution Manager jothcu@yahoo.com

Contributing Writers: Stuart Ferguson, William McReynolds, Debbie Hall, and Deena Bouknight

Guest Writers: Jeanne Piazza, Sue Blair, David Stroud, Lance Hardin, Billy Love, Johanna Fein, Susan Gregory, Josh Bryson, Todd Holder, Anna Norton, Kaye McHan, April Getz, Shelby Ward, Linda Kirkman, Danielle Hernandez, and Courtney Scarborough

Contributing Photographers: Susan Renfro, Mary Gillan Renfro, Greg Clarkson, Charles Johnson, Peter Ray, Terry Barnes, Ryan Karcher, and Colleen Kerrigan.

Copyright © 2025 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. Visit us online thelaurelmagazine.com phone 828.526.0173 email info@thelaurelmagazine.com mail Post Office Box 565 Highlands, North Carolina 28741

WHAT TO DO

Pages 14-43

Photo by Susan Renfro

Celebrating Highlands

It’s a party for the entire town! There’s a full year of events and celebrations popping up throughout the calendar.

In 2025, the town of Highlands will mark an extraordinary milestone – its 150th anniversary.

Founded in 1875 by visionaries Samuel Kelsey and Clinton Hutchinson. The sesquicentennial year will honor Highlands’ legacy as a haven for peace, beauty, and renewal through a series of commemorative events and initiatives, offering something for everyone to enjoy and remember.

The Town of Highlands, Highlands Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Highlands, NC, Highlands Historical Society, HighlandsCashiers Land Trust and other local organizations have curated a diverse lineup of events and programs to honor the town’s past, present, and future.

Here are some highlights:

The Chamber’s website will feature a dedicated page brimming with stories, images, and updates about sesquicentennial activities, ensuring everyone stays connected to the festivities.

Weekly “Highlands Through the Years”

Local newspapers will showcase historical insights each week,

providing a fascinating glimpse into Highlands’ unique journey over the decades.

In a nod to the community’s environmental ethos, residents and visitors can contribute to Highlands’ future by planting trees – a living tribute to sustainability.

History will come alive with interactive displays, reenactments, and exhibits that celebrate Highlands’ cultural heritage.

Volunteer-Led History Walks and Cemetery Tours

Knowledgeable guides will share captivating stories of the past, offering personal perspectives on Highlands’ rich history.

The streets of Highlands will be adorned with new banners, serving as vibrant reminders of the town’s storied past.

Highlands Heritage Jamboree

A grand celebration of music, food, and community spirit will culminate on Saturday, September 27, with the Highlands Heritage Jamboree. This event will be the crowning jewel of the sesquicentennial year.

At the heart of this milestone is a collective effort to preserve Highlands’ natural beauty and cultural heritage for generations to come. The Chamber is also producing a Commemorative Experience Guide filled with historical facts, events, and inspiration for visitors and residents alike.

Highlands remains steadfast in its mission to balance progress with preservation. Through sustainable tourism initiatives, support for local businesses, and educational programs, the Chamber of Commerce strives to ensure that Highlands continues to serve as a peaceful retreat and a vibrant community

Join us as we honor the legacy of Highlands and celebrate the unique charm that makes it such a remarkable place.

by Johanna

Fein, Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC

Special thanks to the Highlands Historical Society for their contribution of historical images.

Spring at Orchard Sessions

Plateau favorite Mike Kinnebrew marks his triumphant return to The Farm at Old Edwards with an April 23 concert. Book your tickets now at oldedwardshospitality.com/orchardsessions.

Eli Bock

Mike Kinnebrew

Mark your calendars for Wednesday, April 23, because the Orchard Sessions series at The Farm at Old Edwards is back, kicking off the 2025 season with none other than Highlands’ favorite troubadour, Mike Kinnebrew.

Over the years, Kinnebrew has become the unofficial heart and soul of this beloved concert series, and for good reason. His indie-folk melodies, tinged with a storyteller’s wit and a preacher’s soul, seem tailor-made for the enchanting setting of The Farm.

This year, the Orchard Sessions promise a little bit of everything: songs that feel like old friends, stories that tug at the heartstrings, and the kind of community spirit you can’t fake. Kinnebrew, fresh from recording his latest song with Grammy-winning writer Marcus Hummon – whose hits include “God Bless the Broken Road” by Rascal Flatts to “Born to Fly” by The Chicks and about 100 others – is ready to share new tunes alongside fan favorites. Expect a mix of “bright and shiny songs about family and life” tempered with “darker, more searching” numbers –because, as Kinnebrew says, “That’s life to me. It’s good and bad, beautiful, and tragic.”

Kinnebrew’s connection to Highlands runs deep. His first visit to Old Edwards in 2014 sparked a friendship with thenGeneral Manager Jack Austin, whose dream of a concert series in the orchard came to life in 2019. Since then, Kinnebrew has graced the stage more than any other artist, forging connections with an audience that schedules vacations around his performances. “I stare at the Orchard Sessions dates on my calendar all year long wishing they would come sooner,” he says. “Each show feels like a reunion.”

Adding to the excitement, Kinnebrew will be joined by a surprise special guest or two, offering the audience something truly memorable and unexpected. With music that mines personal history and lyrics that feel like conversations, Kinnebrew has a way of making every listener feel seen.

And let’s not forget the setting: twilight skies, a backdrop of blooming apple trees, and the hum of conversation as guests sip wine and nibble on light bites. It’s an evening where music and memories intertwine.

All Orchard Sessions are open to the public. Concerts run from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. with a $25 cover charge for Old Edwards Inn and Half-Mile Farm guests and members, and $50 for the public. A cash bar and complimentary snacks round out the experience.

So, grab your spot, bring a friend, and get ready for an evening that’s as honest and heartfelt as the music itself.

by Marlene Osteen

Beyond the Books

The twin libraries are easygoing shepherds prepared to guide everyone through the Digital Landscape.

Beyond books, our local libraries are bursting with possibilities, offering surprising services, creative tools and community programs you might not even know exist.

Today the Hudson Library in Highlands and the Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library are vibrant hubs of innovation, wellness and community connection. Here’s a closer look at some of the hidden gems waiting for you to discover.

Need a Notary? Both libraries have staff who can help you seal the deal on those important documents.

Heading off the grid but still need internet?

Borrow one of their portable hotspots and stay connected wherever your adventures take you. Feeling wellnessminded? Libraries are stepping into the health game with blood pressure monitoring kits available for checkout. But the real magic might just happen in

their MakerTools collections, a treasure trove of tools designed to spark creativity and problem-solving. Got boxes of family photos gathering dust? Use the photo scanners to digitize and preserve them. Thinking about launching a podcast or recording music? Borrow professional microphones and podcasting kits to make it happen.

Maybe crafting is more your speed –there’s a Cricut machine waiting to help you cut, design, and create everything from custom cards to intricate stickers.

From GoPros for capturing adventures to tools for converting VHS tapes into digital memories, MakerTools are your gateway to endless creative possibilities. The excitement doesn’t stop there. Recurring programming at both libraries ensures there’s always something happening. Weekly movie screenings offer a relaxed way to enjoy films with neighbors.

For bookworms, there are book clubs where stories come alive through spirited discussion. Families with little ones will find joy in story times that ignite imaginations and foster a love of reading. And if you’re a lifelong learner, check out workshops and presentations on a variety of topics, from wellness to technology.

Next time you visit, ask the staff what’s new – they’re always happy to help you discover what the library can do for you.

Whether it’s checking out a hotspot, digitizing cherished memories, joining a book club, or simply finding a quiet corner to read, these libraries are full of hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. Visit, explore, and take advantage of all they have to offer – you might just find something you didn’t know you needed.

by Marlene Osteen

Spring at CHS

Cashiers Historical Society’s Spring 2025 events calendar is bursting with presentations, lectures, and illumination.

As winter transitions to spring, the Cashiers Historical Society is busy getting ready for a full calendar of Spring programs. Our Mountain Heritage Lecture series picked up in February with Chris Aluka Berry’s presentation on his book Affrilachia: Testimonies.

We’ll continue to dive into the history of southern Appalachia in March – join us for a screening of Lillian Smith: Breaking the Silence. Smith was a writer, civil rights activist, and camp director who spent much of her life in Clayton, Georgia. Her book, Strange Fruit, inspired the Billie Holliday song of the same name. Celebrate Women’s History Month and learn about Lillian Smith!

In April, we’re thrilled to welcome Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle to Cashiers. Clapsaddle’s book Even as We Breathe examines one Cherokee young man’s journey from his hometown to

Asheville’s famed Grove Park Inn and Resort. Along the way, he navigates the social, cultural, and ethnic differences between Cherokee and Asheville. Set during World War II, this work of historical fiction will prompt you to think about the many layers of history in Western North Carolina.

CHS’s programming ramps up in May! We’ll kick off the month by opening an exhibit created by Summit Charter School students based on CHS’s book, Faces and Places of the Cashiers Valley.

Then, we’ll have a presentation about the lumber industry in southern Appalachia. Both will be enlightening! Finally, we’ll open an exhibit about the High Hampton Inn and the making of modern Cashiers in June. We are so excited about our packed calendar, and we invite you to join us this spring!

by Amelia Golcheski, Cashiers Historical Society

CHS Spring Event Schedule

MARCH

March 26: Mountain Heritage Series: Lillian Smith: Breaking the Silence documentary screening at the Albert Carlton Cashiers Community Library Meeting Room, 3:00 to 5:00 P.M.

APRIL

April 10: Grub for Good: CHS Trivia at Whiteside Brewing, 6:00 to 8:00 P.M.

April 26: Heritage Apple Day at the

Cashiers Historical Society, 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.

April 30: Mountain Heritage Series: Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle, author of Even As We Breathe at the Albert Carlton Cashiers Community Library Meeting Room, 2:00 to 3:00 P.M.

MAY

First week of May: Summit Faces & Place Exhibit Opening at CHS

May 16: Mountain Heritage Series:

Aunt Fannie’s Cabin: A story of the Lumber Industry in the Southern Appalachians during the Early 20th Century at the Albert Carlton Cashiers Community Library Meeting Room, 4:00 P.M.

May 28: Volunteer Open House @ CHS, 5:00 to 7:00 P.M.

June: “Let No One Be a Stranger Here: High Hampton Inn and the Making of Modern Cashiers” Exhibit Opens at the Cashiers Historical Society

Get Ready for the Wheel Deal

The 2025 Highlands Motoring Festival, slated for June 12-15, is revving up to be one for the books.

Mesopotamians invented wheels, but it took the world 5,000 years to figure out how to put a super ride on top of ‘em. That’s when the 1890s introduced the automobile. And the world’s never looked back.

Highlands Motorcar Fest celebrates its 18th year at the Plateau. It’s a databank of car history, enjoyment, a parade of automobile wonder, and wow-kapow for all your senses. Savor the auto-aesthetic forms, smell that classic fragrance, feel the smooth textures of nostalgia, then listen to the vvv-room and hummm. Then do all this zipping up a mountain. You just elevated your driving experience.

Help usher in an early summer with four days (June 12-15) of parading coupés, convertibles, customs, classic and contemporary cars. The Plateau is gonna be musing, schmoozing, and cruising

in chrome, leather, and a whole lot of automobilia-smoooothness, baebae.

It’s not too early to register for driving tours, evening events, and entrance of your classic car for Saturday’s Car in the Park. Here’s a schedule peek:

Thursday, June 12

One Lap of the Mountains - Grande Driving Tour 8:15 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

Friday, June 13

One Lap of the Mountains Speciale Driving Tour 8:15 A.M. to 4:15 P.M.

Main Street Parade of Classic Cars, 5:30 P.M. to 6:30 P.M.

Saturday, June 14

Classics in the Park Judged Car Show in the Kelsey-Hutchinson Park 9:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

Motoring Gala at Wildcat Cliffs Country

Club, 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.

Sunday, June 15

High Octane Social and Car Gathering in Kelsey-Hutchinson Park 8:30 to 11:00 A.M.

More events:

Get tickets for One Lap of the Mountains Drivers Events (tour groups)

Classics in the Park Invitational (Judging of invited classics)

The Gala and the Automobilia Auction (Live auctions of memorabilia)

For more information, visit highlandsmotoringfestival.com. Stay tuned for a close-up and personal interview next month with Corky Coker, Grand Marshall and Speaker at the Gala.

by Donna Rhodes

Bingo Excitement

As the Rotary Bingo Season ramps up, the entire Plateau benefits.

Robert Baxter, spokesperson for the Highlands Rotary, has an exciting early spring announcement: “Bingo lovers, get your calendars in gear! Every month this year is already booked for a bonanza of Bingo.”

Organizations look forward annually to raising funds for worthy causes. They, in turn, help the Rotary mission: We provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through our fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.

Get your pencils ready and mark your 2025 calendar with the following dates – then get your daubers in gear, ‘cause the upcoming PTO Bingo, a four-hour evening event might provide Leprechaun gold, figuratively speaking. But you never know!

For more information, contact rbax47@gmail.com.

by Donna Rhodes / photos

by Susan Renfro

Rotary Bingo Night Schedule

Highlands School Parent Teachers Organization: Monday, March 17, 4:00 to 9:00 P.M. at the Highlands Recreation Center

The following bingo nights are held at the Community Building: 869 N. 4th Street, Highlands: Interact Club of Highlands School: April 11, Friday,

6:30-8:30 P.M.;

Counseling Center: May 22, Thursday, 6:30-8:30 P.M.;

Gordon Child Care Center: June 26, Thursday, 6:30-8:30 P.M.;

Scaly Mountain Women’s Club: July 24, Thursday, 6:30-8:30 P.M.;

Highlands School Athletic Booster Club: August 22, 6:30-8:30 P.M.;

Scaly Mountain Historical Society: September 25, 6:30-8:30 P.M.; Wreaths Across America: October 9, 6:30-8:30 P.M.; Why Us Kids: November 13, 6:30-8:30 P.M.;

Shop with a Cop: December 18, 6:30-8:30 P.M.

Historic Presentations

For this big year in Highlands’ history, Highlands Historical Society and the Center for Life Enrichment are cooperating across the calendar.

Our beloved mountain community is celebrating a major milestone this year: the Town of Highlands’ 150th Anniversary.

The Highlands-Cashiers Center for Life Enrichment and the Highlands Historical Society have unveiled their collaboration on four compelling, educational presentations on the history of Highlands.

Through these programs, CLE and HHS hope to transport attendees back in time, explore the foundation and evolution of our small town since 1875, and illustrate how Highlands has blossomed into the haven as we know it today.

Tracy Foor, President of HHS concurs, saying, “Partnering with CLE is an inspiring link. In offering these unique opportunities to deeply delve into Highlands history and culture, it reminds us of gifts of our hard-working ancestry, puts our little town in the spotlight, and generates pride.

“The 150th Anniversary of the founding of Highlands has motivated both of our organizations to look for new ways to reach out to those who are interested in learning even more about the past of this

wonderful community we are fortunate to call home.”

On May 27, landscape artist and travelling painter Paul Arsneault will lead an art history presentation reflecting on the milestones of his 50 year career as a professional artist, the 150th anniversary of Highlands, and the 250th anniversary of American Independence.

He presents through his paintings and stories compelling examples of the enduring spirit of independence that unifies humanity. Paul has painted many scenes here in Highlands, NC, including historical homes.

On May 29, Dr. Elizabeth Engelhardt, Distinguished Professor and Senior Associate Dean for Fine Arts and Humanities in the College of Arts and Science at UNC Chapel Hill, will lead an insightful discussion centered around her book, Boardinghouse Women: How Southern Keepers, Cooks, Nurses, Widows and Runaways Shaped Modern America. Dr. Engelhardt will share how much of modern America owes a debt to Southern boardinghouse women, and how these hubs of innovation and

engines of financial independence shaped the region.

On June 20, HHS President Foor will transport participants back 150 years with his fascinating presentation on Satulah Mountain. Learn from a local expert about the neighborhood that was eventually created on the mountain itself, and the unique circumstances and personalities of early residents that led them to build their homes in such an extreme location.

Join Eleanor Harvey, Smithsonian American Art Museum Senior Curator, on July 22 for a riveting art history presentation on Henry Ossawa Tanner, the first African-American painter to gain international acclaim. Tanner spent a summer in Highlands following an illness, and painted several works during that time depicting the beauty and nature of the Plateau.

Registration for all CLE programs will begin in April. Visit clehighlands.com for more information.

by Donna Rhodes

Prince House, now the oldest existing residence in town (built 1877) was a distinctive boarding house in Highlands.

Bowl like it’s the

Stone Age

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cashiers-Highlands will be staging its Bowling For Kids’ Sake from 10:00 A.M. to 2:15 P.M. Saturday, March 22, at Galaxy Lanes (347 Jackson Plaza in Sylva). For more information, contact Senior Program Coordinator Danielle Hernandez at cashiers@bbbswnc.org, (828) 399-9133.

Yabba Dabba Do!

Bowl For Kids’ Sake, benefiting local kids, is rolling back to a bowling alley near you.

Based this year on Fred Flintstone’s famous “Yabba Dabba Do” catchphrase, the annual fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina, supports Cashiers and Highlands kids who need a caring mentor.

Bowl For Kids’ Sake, BBBSWNC’s biggest fundraiser of the year, is a blast! Teams of four to five bowlers, often sponsored by their church, school, or place of work, enjoy two hours of fun bowling alongside other teams and supporters who are cheering each other on.

Team members are asked to raise or donate at least $50 each. Teams raise at least $250, every dollar of which goes directly to programs, thanks to the generosity of BBBSWNC sponsors. Shoe

rental is included in the event.

Create or join a team at the Bowl For Kids’ Sake website. People who don’t want to bowl can visit the website to make contributions, as can potential sponsors. Local and regional sponsorships start at the $300 or $500 level.

This year’s Bowl For Kids’ Sake theme is right out of Bedrock – Yabba Dabba Do! Bowlers are encouraged to dress like The Flintstones or in any costume that evokes the Stone. There will be prizes for the best costume. Street clothes are also fine.

“Bowl For Kids’ Sake abounds in hilarious, friendly competition,” said BBBSWNC program coordinator Debbie Thompson. “It engages the competitive spirit, and the costumes will have you howling with laughter. One-to-one mentoring helps children and youth grow into successful young adults, and this event helps BBBS support that in our communities.”

BBBSWNC is always recruiting caring adults to be Bigs. Bigs don’t have to be perfect. They just have to have a big heart and a willingness to show up consistently for their Little (consistency is often what kids treasure most).

In BBBS’ site-based program, Bigs spend an hour each week at a Little’s school, helping them with homework and enjoying some free time. In its community-based program, Bigs and Littles enjoy an outing – grabbing a bite to eat, going for a walk, visiting a local place of interest, for example –twice a month. Program coordinators suggest many of the outings and arrange several more.

Learn more about BBBS of Western North Carolina at bbbswnc.org. For more information about Bowl For Kids’ Sake –and to register a team - visit secure.qgiv. com/event/bfks2025.

by Paul Clark, Big Brothers Big Sisters of WNC

Plant Sale Bonanza

Just in time for Plateau Planting, the Highlands Mountain Garden Club’s beloved Annual Plant Sale returns to the Town Ball Field on Saturday, May 24.

Spring is the time to start refreshing our gardens and the devoted members of the Mountain Garden Club already have their shovels in the dirt preparing for their annual plant sale held this year on Saturday, May 24, from 9:00 A.M. until noon.

On this magical day in May, the Town Ball Field at the corner of Highway 64 E and Hickory Street in Highlands is transformed into a shining green sea of possibilities, covered with plants gleaned from some of the area’s most prolific gardens.

This botanical wonderland and gardener’s delight is the culmination of hours of hard work by garden club members who have been working cheerfully and tirelessly to gather plants from their gardens and the gardens of others who generously share their plants for this sale. These gardeners pay it forward by sharing the

fruits of their labor with others. This once-a-year opportunity allows everyone the chance to purchase plants grown by some of the most accomplished gardeners on the Plateau. No big-box plants here, these have all been lovingly

If you’ve admired a plant in any local garden, you’ll most likely be able to purchase it here.

It’s also the perfect chance to chat with Mountain Garden Club members and ask any questions you might have about your gardens or the plants you’re purchasing. These are serious gardeners so by all means, ask the experts.

On this magical day in May, the Town Ball Field … in Highlands is transformed into a shining green sea of possibilities

cultivated in native soil and are plants proven to thrive in our region so they will grow and thrive for years to come. You will find plants of all kinds here, from those that attract pollinators such as bee balm, astilbe, and clematis, to the always popular hosta in its many varieties, cinnamon ferns and many other offerings, including dahlia bulbs.

Be prepared to arrive early, as the sale is extremely popular and long lines form quickly. Proceeds are used for scholarships for local students, maintenance of the Highlands School garden, the Historical Jail premises and the Eckerd Center Garden, as well as for other community projects. It is a chance to beautify your garden while giving to a good cause. Cash or check only, please. by Mary Jane McCall

Cleaning Up Highlands

It’s time to tidy up the neighborhood – you’re invited to join the Plateau Pickup, set for Saturday, April 26.

“Join the annual Plateau Pickup and help keep Highlands beautiful,” says Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands N.C. Executive Director/ Kaye McHan.

The event kicks off at 8:30 A.M. Saturday, April 26, at KelseyHutchinson Founders Park on Pine Street, where volunteers will receive their assignments for stretches of US 64, NC 28, NC 106, and parts of downtown Highlands.

Participants will be provided with everything needed for the cleanup effort, including a light breakfast, safety vest, gloves, pick-up tools, garbage bags, and a Thank You t-shirt. After the morning’s work, a boxed lunch will be served back at the park at 12:00 P.M.

“Last year, despite the cold weather, we had an amazing turnout, and volunteers collected an incredible amount of debris,” says McHan. “It’s heartwarming to see our community come together to beautify our roadways.”

Plateau Pickup is organized by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC. To participate, email events@ highlandschamber.org or call (828) 526-5841.

For more details about Plateau Pickup or other Highlands events, visit highlandschamber.org.

by Luke Osteen

Good to Be a Local

With its We Love Locals program, Half-Mile Farm and Old Edwards Inn offers a luxurious Welcome Spring Getaway to its neighbors.

Once again, the supremely hospitable folks at Old Edwards have concocted the perfect antidote to those post-holiday blues: the We Love Locals promotion.

Running through March, the offer is a love letter to residents of nine counties in and around the Highlands area – an invitation to swap the everyday grind for something extraordinary.

Here are the particulars: midweek stays at Old Edwards start at just $195 per

night, while a getaway to the tranquil Half-Mile Farm begins at $165 per night. Think of it as a mini vacation without the stress of arduous travel. Instead, you’ll find yourself tucked into cozy accommodations with mountain views, plush bedding, and maybe even a little time in front of a roaring fire. It’s not just a night away; it’s a whole new mindset. And because Old Edwards knows how to do things right, they’ve layered on the extras. Dining at Madison’s

comes with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine – a small but delightful touch that transforms an ordinary meal into a celebration.

The menu? Seasonal, refined, and created to pair perfectly with the kind of winter nights that make Highlands magical.

But wait, there’s more! Locals staying Monday or Tuesday nights at Half-Mile Farm can add an extra layer of fun by signing up for the Half-Mile Farm Sip & Savor Tuesday Classes. These hands-on,

flavorful sessions are designed to delight your palate and expand your knowledge, making them the perfect complement to your stay. Why not make a night of it? A little learning paired with a lot of leisure sounds like the perfect plan.

But why stop at dinner when you can dive into a little retail adventure? At Acorns, locals enjoy 25 percent off their purchases now through March 31.

Whether you’re drawn to curated home goods, stylish winter essentials, or that one perfect gift, the discount makes it easy to splurge. You might just discover something that feels like it was meant for you.

And if you’re looking to balance indulgence with wellness, there’s more good news. Old Edwards is offering yoga and fitness classes to locals for $25 per session. Picture it: stretching your way into serenity as sunlight pours through the windows or breaking a sweat surrounded by the clean, cool air of the Highlands plateau. It’s the kind of reset you didn’t know you needed. This offer is a chance to slow down and savor what makes winter special. It’s available Sunday through Thursday, which is perfect for turning an ordinary weeknight into something memorable. The fine print is simple: show a valid

ID from one of the nine participating counties, and you’re in. Holidays and holiday weekends are excluded, and rates vary by room type.

Locals make Highlands what it is –charming, close-knit, and full of character.

These specials are Old Edwards’ way of saying “thank you.” Give yourself permission to indulge and visit oldedwardshospitality.com/locallove for details and reservations.

by Marlene Osteen

Leaning Into His Roots

Move over, New Orleans – High Country Wine & Provisions stages its own lavish Mardi Gras celebration on March 1, complete with five-course feast, generous pours and all the exuberance.

Chef Ken Naron

Laissez les bon temps rouler –Mardi Gras is coming to High Country Wine & Provisions on March 1, and this isn’t just dinner. This is a full-on sensory celebration of Louisiana’s most iconic flavors, a five-course feast from Chef Ken Naron with wine pairing from winemaker Guy Davis of Davis Family Wines.

Naron, a Louisiana native, is leaning into his roots for the occasion, crafting a menu that pays homage to the food he loves—rich, soulful, and steeped in tradition. “I wrote this menu as my ode to home,” says Naron, who spent four years as executive chef at Canyon Kitchen before launching Envie Eats in Dillard, Georgia. “I wanted to bring to everyone here what I love about Louisiana food and culture.”

That taste? It channels New Orleans in all the rights ways beginning with a “Bienvenue” plate – a triple punch of

shrimp and andouille arancini, roasted oysters dripping in Rockefeller sauce, and crawfish boudin rangoon with Creole mustard. Then comes a Louisiana ramen, packed with crawfish andouille, and a red bean and rice miso broth that’s savory and complex. Deviled crab-stuffed redfish is next, perched on a bed of pepper jack grits and bathed in sauce Creole, before the showstopper arrives – boudin-stuffed Joyce Farms duck with a cane syrup glaze, sweet potato hash, and crispy duck cracklins that bring the crunch.

And because it wouldn’t be Mardi Gras without a proper finale, the meal wraps with king cake bread pudding, rich with cream cheese frosting and Meyer lemon curd.

But this isn’t just about the food. High Country Wine & Provisions is going full French Quarter – where the music swings, the decor drips with festive energy, and the wine flows like a

second line through the streets of the Vieux Carré.

“We want people to feel transported to Bourbon Street,” says Harrison Renfro, High Country’s business manager. “This is an experience, not just a wine dinner.”

And then there’s the wine – because what’s a feast without the perfect pour? Guy Davis, the Sonoma winemaker known for his French-inspired artistry, has hand-selected bottles that don’t just match Naron’s flavors but amplify them. He and Naron go way back, having collaborated on wine dinners through the years. When Davis started dreaming up a Mardi Gras celebration, there was only one chef who could bring it to life.

Tickets are $150 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Visit highcountrywineprovisions.com for more information.

by

Marlene Osteen photo by Susan Renfro

View the complete Highlands Cashiers Plateau Calendar

Bluegrass, 10 AM1:30 PM, Highlander Mountain House. Live Music, 2-5 PM, The Vineyard at High Holly. Music Bingo, 7 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Bluegrass, 10 AM1:30 PM, Highlander Mountain House. Live Music, 2-5 PM, The Vineyard at High Holly. Music Bingo, 7 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Bluegrass, 10 AM1:30 PM, Highlander Mountain House.

Music Bingo, 7 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Bluegrass, 10 AM1:30 PM, Highlander Mountain House.

“March

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist.

brings breezes loud and shrill, stirs the dancing daffodil.” — Sara Coleridge 7

Live

9

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist. The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Mardi Gras Dinner, High Country Wine & Provisions.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist. The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.

Teen Tabletop Gaming sessions 4 PM, Albert Carlton-Cashiers Library.

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

3 2 4 5

Walking Wednesday at Brushy Face, 9:30 AM,

HC Land Trust.

The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM.

Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:30 PM, Cashiers Methodist Church Choir Room. Carolina Concert Series, 6 PM, Trailborn Highlands Blues Music, 6-9 PM, Ruffed Grouse Tavern. Trivia, 7 PM, High Dive. 6

The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM.

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

Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM.

Live Music, 5-8 PM, The Local.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. Alice and Wonderland , 6 PM, PAC.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM. Zorki 1-3 PM, Ruffed Grouse Tavern.

8

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist.

Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. 18 17 19

Rotary Club Bingo, benefitting Highlands School PTO, 6:308:30PM, Highlands Rec Park.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist. The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.

Walking Wednesday at Satulah Mt., 5 PM, Highlands Cashiers Land Trust.

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.

Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.

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

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:30 PM, Cashiers Methodist Church Choir Room.

Carolina Concert Series, 6 PM, Trailborn Highlands Blues Music, 6-9 PM, Ruffed Grouse Tavern. Trivia, 7 PM, High Dive.

HC Players The Outsider, 7 PM, Highlands PAC.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM.

Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

HC Players The Outsider, 7 PM, Highlands PAC.

Live Music, 2-5 PM, The Vineyard at High Holly. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. Murrell’s Row Spirits Launch Party, 6 PM, Ruffed Grouse Tavern,

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM. Zorki 1-3 PM, Ruffed Grouse Tavern.

MET | Fidelio, 1 PM, Highlands PAC. Block Party & Cruise-In, 4 PM, Downtown Clayton, Ga. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. Alice and Wonderland 6 PM, PAC.

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:30 PM, Cashiers Methodist Church Choir Room. Carolina Concert Series, 6 PM, Trailborn Highlands Blues Music, 6-9 PM, Ruffed Grouse Tavern. Trivia, 7 PM, High Dive. 20 21 22 11 10 14 13 12 15 1 16

Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Bowl for Kids Sake, 11AM-3PM, Galaxy Lanes, Sylva. The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM. Zorki 1-3 PM, Ruffed Grouse Tavern.

HC Players The Outsider, 2 PM, Highlands PAC.

Exhibition Reception, 3 PM, The Bascom.

Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist. 24 23

Headwater Outfitters North Fork Fest, 1 PM, Deerwoode Reserve.

HC Players The Outsider, 2 PM, Highlands PAC.

Music Bingo, 7 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

HC Players The Outsider, 2 PM, Highlands PAC. Live Music, 2-5 PM, The Vineyard at High Holly. Music Bingo, 7 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist. The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM.

25 The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Mountain Heritage Series screening, 3 PM, Cashiers Community Library Meeting Room. Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:30 PM, Cashiers Methodist Church Choir Room. Carolina Concert Series, 6 PM, Trailborn Highlands Blues Music, 6-9 PM, Ruffed Grouse Tavern. Trivia, 7 PM, High Dive. HC Players The Outsider, 7 PM, Highlands PAC. Bazaar Barn 10 AM-2 PM. The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. HC Players The Outsider, 7 PM, Highlands PAC.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM. Zorki 1-3 PM, Ruffed Grouse Tavern.

HC Players The Outsider, 2 PM, Highlands PAC. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Zorki 1-3 PM, Ruffed Grouse Tavern.

Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

April Events

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23

Orchard Sessions with Mike Kinnebrew 6 PM, The Farm at Old Edwards

Highlands will resonate with the sounds of singer/songwriter

Mike Kinnebrew, marking the kick-off of the 2025 season of the Orchard Sessions. oldedwardshospitality.com/orchardsessions

SATURDAY, APRIL 26

Heritage Apple Day

11 AM, Cashiers Historical Society

Celebrating the history of apples in the Western North Carolina Mountains, this fun event includes activities for all ages, including grafting demonstrations, apple snacks, and crafts. cashiershistoricalsociety.org

TUESDAY, APRIL 29

Village Nature Series

5:30 PM, The Village Green

The Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust and The Village Green

co-host a series of lectures each summer. Visitors and residents learn about wildlife, habitats, conservation, and local cultural heritage from expert speakers in their fields! villagegreencashiersnc.com/village-nature-series

ON THE HORIZON May Events

SATURDAYS, APRIL - OCTOBER

Highlands Marketplace

8 AM-12:30 PM, Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park

Reserve your Saturday mornings for a visit with local farmers, craftsmen, and artists who sell their hand-growns and hand-mades.

SATURDAY, APRIL 26

Plateau Pickup

8:30 AM, Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park

Volunteers will receive a light breakfast, a safety vest, gloves, pick-up tools, garbage bags and a thank you t-shirt. A boxed lunch will be served to volunteers when they return to the park at noon. visithighlandsnc.com

SATURDAY, APRIL 26 - SUNDAY, MAY 4

Cashiers Burger Week

Cashiers Burger Week is a weeklong celebration of the Almighty Burger. Area restaurants are getting creative and showcasing limited time burgers. Participants can Vote for Best and Most Creative Burger and will be entered to win prizes. cashiersburgerweek.com

WEDNESDAYS, MAY - OCTOBER

Cashiers Green Market

11 AM-3 PM, The Village Green

Fill your basket with naturally raised meat and dairy items, fresh eggs, jams, pickles, freshly baked bread and delicious granola. Set your table with fresh cut flowers or plant your entryway with locally grown perennials. Always fresh. Always local. villagegreencashiersnc.com/locally-grown-on-the-green

FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS, BEGINNING MAY 16

Outdoor Concert Series

6-8:30 PM

Town Square / Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park

Enjoy free, live music every Friday and Saturday evening, from May through October courtesy of Highlands Chamber of Commerce. The Series kicks off with Doug Ramsey and Gotcha Groove. highlandschamber.org

MAY 23 -AUGUST 29

Groovin’ on the Green

6 PM, The Village Green

Music fills the air in The Village Green. Groovin’ on The Green is a vibrant, free summer concert series, creating unforgettable music experiences for the community! The series kicks off with Corey Stevenson Band. villagegreencashiersnc.com/concerts

SATURDAY, MAY 10

Highlands Dog Show

1 PM, Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park

This event, sponsored by Landmark Realty Group and the Park on Main Hotel, is expected to be a bark-tastic celebration of our furry companions and a perfect lead-in to the Mother’s Day weekend.

Saturday, May 17

High Style Fashion Show

10 AM, The Bascom

Join us for a front-row seat to the season’s most captivating trends. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or simply love a touch of glamour, this is your chance to enjoy it all in a stylish, fun atmosphere! visithighlandsnc.com

SATURDAY, MAY 24

Mountain Garden Club’s Annual Plant Sale

9 AM, Highlands Town Ballfield

This unique plant sale offers you the chance to purchase native plants grown by some of the most accomplished gardeners on the Plateau.

RECREATION & CREATION Pages 48-60

Photo by Susan Renfro

Walk and Learn

Let Deena walk you through 150 years of Highlands history.

Just getting outdoors, breathing crisp early spring air, and moving limbs is good for body, mind, and soul.

But what if by taking a stroll, you could also expand your knowledge? Many people may not be aware that Highlands offers just such an experience.

The Highlands Heritage Walking Trail takes individuals on sort of a walk-backin-time, self-guided tour focusing on the places that have factored into this burgeoning town since it was founded in the latter 1800s.

The “trail,” which is actually a listing of historical buildings and sites within Highlands’ business district – essentially

the areas surrounding Main and 4th streets – was compiled by Ran Shaffner, the archivist for the Highlands Historical Society. However, the project was sponsored by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Highlands, and the Highlands Historical Society.

To knock out the Highlands Heritage Walking Trail, either in one fell swoop or in chunks, access the website on a smartphone, blueridgeheritage.com/ itineraries/highlands-heritage-trail/, and learn from the list where each stop is located, the site’s origins, and what is there currently. Also on this website is a map with some of the Heritage Walking

Trail sites pinned.

Put on those walking shoes and plan to see and learn about such sites as:

The Partridge Rice Home, built in 1883, which is now the location of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce at 108 Main Street. The Partridge family’s flour and corn mill was situated at the back of their property on Mill Creek. For almost two decades people throughout the town depended on the mill for their grain. The reason the history of the house shares two names is because after the Partridge family lived there, the house was the home of Luke Rice, a butcher, who resided in the home from 1909-68.

The Rice-Thompson Building was built in 1928 and housed Irvin Rice’s Meat Market and Grocery, with his brother Luke running the meat market in the back. Florence Thompson had her tea room here in the early 1930s, and Lilly Pierson ran her hat and dress shop, followed by Sara Gilder’s grocery, Bert and Harold Rideout’s Satulah Café and Drug Store and Dee McCollum’s Paintin’ Place. Wit’s End has sold ladies’ and children’s clothing here since 1940. The first school, built in 1878, once stood where Town Hall now stands at 210 South 4th Street. The original Highlands School was constructed of white pine planks and children were taught there for 40 years. Saved was the school bell, which continues to ring in

respite after walking around town.

The House-Trapier-Wright (Prince) House, constructed in 1877, is the oldest existing house in Highlands and has housed the Highlands Historical Society since 2000. It was built by Arthur House, who operated a sawmill. The frame dwelling with a multi-gable roof was then occupied by Frank Wright in 1913 and remained in the family as the Prince house when Frank’s sister, Lizzie, married a man whose last name was Prince.

The Highlands House-Highlands Inn, built in 1880 by Joseph Halleck, is on the National Register of Historic Places. Located at 420 Main Street, it operates as a 31-room inn and offers a unique afternoon tea service – perfect for a

Dozens more places exist on this unique Highlands Heritage Walking Trail experience, which can be accomplished most seasons of the year. Impress friends and family and feel more connected with the community and history of Highlands by simply doing a walk-about town. by Deena Bouknight Scan to learn more.

the Millennium Clock Tower.

Avian Influenza & Songbird Feeders

Our avian neighbors could use some help with staying healthy through the threat of bird flu.

Slate-colored Junco

What role might feeding songbirds at backyard feeders contribute to transmission of avian influenza between songbirds, and what risk might this present to humans?

Importantly, most of the thousands of documented cases of avian H5N1 influenza are currently occurring in large bird species that congregate under conditions that favor influenza transmission; concentrated flocks of waterfowl and commercial poultry activities are two examples.

Additionally, bird species that may feed upon sick or dead H5N1 influenza virus-infected birds make up the bulk of the remaining documented avian influenza cases – vultures, eagles, ravens, crows, etc.

Since 2022, in Western North Carolina, there have been 8 documented reports of H5N1 from all types of wild birds tested and none of these species included songbirds (i.e., three Canada geese, three vultures, two mallards).

There is an absence of available evidence to suggest that feeding songbirds leads to an increase in the rate of transmission of avian influenza between songbirds above the low levels that might occur in the absence of bird feeders.

The one reported human death associated with H5N1 influenza in the U.S. had unspecified “underlying medical conditions” and contracted H5N1 after exposure to both a backyard poultry flock and “wild birds. Of the remaining 66 recognized human infections with avian H5N1 in the U.S., there is no available data suggesting that any of these examples of human disease have been associated with songbird feeders.

One suggestion for enhanced influenza hygiene with bird feeders would be to consider using feeders and bird baths that are readily cleaned with warm soapy water and that will dry out quickly after a good clean water rinse. Another goal might be to put out smaller amounts of bird feed at a time and clean feeders and bird baths often.

Human activities associated with ducks and chickens are recognized risk factors for the occasional human acquisition of the currently circulating H5N1 avian influenza. Handling dead or dying birds without disposable gloves is discouraged. Current vaccines for human seasonal influenza do not provide robust protection against human infection with avian H5N1 viruses.

By Russ Regnery, Ph.D.

Dr. Regnery is a microbiologist and member of the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society. He is retired from a research career with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta.

Gardening Lessons From Gracie

Whether you frolic on two legs or four, Debby has some sensible steps to ensure that your outdoor time is splendid.

As some of you may know, my sweet canine companion Gracie tore her CCL this past holiday season. If you are unfamiliar, and I hope you are, this is the equivalent of an ACL in a human. A very painful injury that can cause pain, instability, and lameness in the affected leg. In simple terms, it is a dreaded injury for any active pup.

Why am I writing about this, you ask? I want to share this as a reminder of how vulnerable we are to injury as we garden to our heart’s content. Not much contentment when you are nursing an injury, whether it’s minor or one that requires surgery.

As one of the “diggers” for the Mountain Garden Club, I can attest to how hard it is on your body to hang off the side of a mountain going for the coveted plant to dig, pot, and then sell at our Memorial Day sale!

Just like Gracie who most likely tore her CCL with a sudden movement, human gardeners can also suffer unexpected injuries. Gardening can sometimes involve heavy lifting, bending, or repetitive motions, all of which can strain muscles, ligaments, or joints. Whether you’re digging, lifting, or reaching for tools, it’s easy to make a sudden wrong move that can lead to injury. And if anyone under 30 is reading this, it can happen to you, too!

Lesson 1: Always warm up before starting heavy work and take breaks. Stretching and easing into our gardening tasks can reduce strain and prevent overexertion. Side note: I’ll share the short version of my eagerness to play tennis again after a pause from my college days. No warm up and let’s end it with; I was on crutches for 6 weeks. Ouch!

Since I was not outside when Gracie was playing with her friend, I can only assume she injured her knee due to a wrong move or a twist of the leg. In gardening, improper posture or technique (like bending at the waist instead of the knees) can result in back, knee, or joint injuries.

Lesson 2: Focus on body mechanics. Kneel instead of bending, use your legs for lifting heavy objects, and avoid twisting your body when moving heavy plants or objects. Use tools that reduce strain on your joints and muscles.

Just as my dog needs time to rest and recover from her injury, humans need to be mindful of overworking themselves in the garden, especially after periods of activity during the winter months. Pushing through pain or fatigue can lead to more serious injury.

Lesson 3: Pace yourself, and if you feel any strain or discomfort while gardening, take a break. Rest and allow your body to

Debby Hall and Gracie

recover. If you do experience pain, don’t ignore it. Seek help or adjust your approach to gardening.

As we enjoy the winter months this may be a good time to explore simple exercises that will target strength, balance, and flexibility. Hopefully this may serve as an inspiration to get moving during these more sedentary months. We all know how rigorous gardening can be once warm weather hits!

Lesson 4: Incorporate stretching and strengthening exercises into your routine to build flexibility and strength in the muscles you use while gardening. This can include exercises for the back, shoulders, wrists, and legs to reduce the likelihood of strains or sprains.

While I don’t know exactly how my sweet girl got injured, I do know that on occasion I have tripped or slipped while gardening. Tools, rocks, or uneven ground can lead to falls or twists that can cause injuries.

Lesson 5: Keep your garden clear of obstacles, especially when it’s wet or muddy. Using non-slip shoes with good traction is a good first step. If your garden has uneven terrain, consider leveling those areas or add a pathway of pebbles to reduce trip hazards.

Gracie just turned nine, so she would be what I consider middle aged in human terms. While dogs as young as three have torn their CCL, it seems middle age to older dogs are the more common victims of this injury. What does that mean for us?

Lesson 6: Know your limitations. If you are gardening with a pre-existing condition (like arthritis), be aware of how your body feels during gardening tasks. Consider using raised beds, kneeling pads, or tools designed to be easy to use. Don’t slug it out. Those who know me hear me say this quite often; Work Smarter, Not Harder!

I hope by connecting Gracie’s injury to practices we can adopt in our own gardening habits, it serves as a reminder that preventing injury many times comes down to preparation, proper techniques, pacing, and strength. It’s important to take proactive steps to protect our bodies to ensure a long, enjoyable gardening season.

Writing this has certainly served as a reminder that I need to take my own advice. I’ll be doing a tune up this winter so I’ll be ready when we “diggers” hit the slopes!

Gracie and I wish you a happy winter season of rest and recuperation, however that looks for you.

Happy Gardening!

by Debby Hall (with encouragement from Gracie) photo by Susan Renfro

Step Out and Into Magic

A pair of gentle strolls offer a soul-satisfying dose of nature and transcendent beauty.

If you’re like me, an inordinate amount of your day and night is spent staring at a screen.

This becomes even more acute during the winter, when it’s too easy to say that the weather is “uncomfortable” or iffy.

I don’t know if there’s quantifiable data to support this contention, but I swear that I can detect my IQ slowly diminishing as my screen time increases. There’s a distinct dulling of the senses and a nagging supposition that it’s not supposed to be this way.

Normally, I’d escape by way of undertaking a hike of the sort Deena C. Bouknight so masterfully describes in these pages. Or stepping out and resolving to watch and listen for whatever

feathered neighbor has been spotlighted by our William McReynolds.

But last Sunday, I lacked the time to indulge in any of these escapes.

I’d been sitting at my desk for hours, working on the pages that you’re enjoying at this moment (right?) and I’d grown, let’s be diplomatic here, ripe.

And those hectic days leading up to publication don’t allow time for a hike into the deep woods or an inspiring vista.

But it turned out that an easy solution was right in front of me, or one-eighth of a mile in front of me.

Tricia decided that we’d pay a visit to the Horst Winkler Sculpture Trail. That’s a little green jewel that wanders

through The Bascom’s campus and it’s packed with wonderments both subtle and startling.

And, since it unwinds beneath a cool canopy of branches and shadows a babbling tributary of Mill Creek, the effect is one of being miles and years from downtown Highlands.

The sculptures are arrayed across the trail and they never cease to surprise or beguile. And since there are outsized Seussian benches scattered about, you’re constantly invited to sit and contemplate. We emerged from the trail 20 minutes later and 20 years younger. I promise there’s magic here.

And if you’re reading this in Southern

Jackson County, you owe it to yourself to visit the Village Green’s Boardwalk, which has sprung into new, vivid life.

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

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

The boardwalk winds through wetlands

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

The boardwalk has been entirely restored with a much-improved design that will make the area safe and accessible for all to enjoy. The new boardwalk decking is raised above ground level to increase the longevity of the structure. Its width increased to eight feet, allowing for safer pedestrian passing and allowing those who are mobility challenged or require a wheelchair to enjoy the wetlands.

Additional safety features are a 42-inch high handrail that’s backed by mesh.

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

Also there’s an additional 800-linear feet of boardwalk near the playground.

Regardless of which trail you choose to experience, your mental and physical well-being will be fortified as we embrace this new season.

by Luke Osteen

Balentine’s Honored

Betty and Robert Balentine and their Southern Highlands Reserve, custodians of Toxaway’s unique natural heritage, have achieved national recognition for their tireless preservation efforts.

Robert and Betty Balentine

The Garden Club of America has awarded Southern Highlands Reserve founders Betty and Robert Balentine its highest honor for their work to preserve the unique biodiversity of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal, one of 10 national medals awarded annually, recognizes outstanding achievement in environmental protection and maintenance of the quality of life.

The Balentines founded Southern Highlands Reserve (SHR) as a nonprofit in 2002 when they assembled 120 acres of land in western North Carolina and placed it under conservation easement to protect it from development.

Over the last two decades, their vision and commitment have helped SHR become a national leader in conservation. Located at 4,500 feet on top of Toxaway Mountain, the nonprofit includes a 22-acre native plant garden, 100 acres of natural woodlands, and a new state-

of-the-art greenhouse that will be the epicenter for native plant propagation in the Southern Appalachian Mountains.

SHR is a founding member of the Southern Appalachian Spruce Restoration Initiative, a partnership of state and federal agencies, nonprofits, and private organizations working to restore the second most endangered ecosystem in the United States, the high elevation spruce-fir forests of the Southern Blue Ridge.

To accommodate increased demand, SHR’s new $2.7 million greenhouse more than doubles the garden’s current propagation capacity.

Betty has been a member of Peachtree Garden Club, Zone VIII, since 1992 and has served as its president. She is also a member and former chair of the board of advisors for the State Botanical Garden of Georgia in Athens. She advocates for the publication of works on the natural world through her participation on the

Board of the Cherokee Garden Library. Robert’s love of nature developed in his youth as an Eagle Scout, camping and hiking in the North Carolina mountains. He was inspired by his father, an avid gardener, and his mother, a member and past president of Peachtree Garden Club, and a horticulture judge for the Garden Club of America. Robert is currently chair of The Garden Conservancy and was founding president of the Southeastern Horticultural Society. He is chairman of Atlanta-based wealth management firm Balentine, where he counsels families on shaping legacies defined by purpose and philanthropy. His book, First Generation Wealth, was published in 2022.

by Holly Renehan, Southern Highlands Reserve

Where Eagles Fly

The return of Bald Eagles is a conservation triumph and a boost for the Plateau’s spirit.

The Bald Eagle is a bird of prey native to North America with a large range that includes all 50 U.S. states.

Due to a primary diet of fish, they’re typically found around large bodies of water with old-growth forests nearby for nesting. A large bird, adult eagles typically weigh 10-15 pounds, boast wingspans between 5-7 feet, and build the largest nest of any bird in North America; after annually adding new material to reinforce the nest, it can eventually be as large as 13 feet deep, eight feet across, and weigh more than one metric ton! With an average lifespan of 20 years, each eagle pair typically mates for life and reuses the same nest over many years.

Because of the Bald Eagle’s huge size and impressive nests, they rely on oldgrowth forests and wetland ecosystems during their breeding season. Their preferred trees are over 66 feet tall with

an open structure and large branches for perching, roosting, and nesting. Nesting pairs seek areas with minimal human disturbance. Female eagles produce between 1-3 eggs per year, and parents take turns incubating their eggs and hunting for food or nesting materials.

During the mid-20th century, Bald Eagle populations were severely affected by a variety of human-caused environmental impacts such as loss of suitable habitat due to logging, legal and illegal hunting, pollutants such as DDT, and lead shotgun pellets from scavenged carcasses. By the 1950s there were only 412 nesting pairs in the lower 48 states.

The Bald Eagle was initially protected in 1918 under the Migratory Bird Treaty, later gained greater protection through the 1940 Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and was declared an endangered species in 1967. Environmental awareness, including from publications such as Silent Spring, helped inform

the public about the impact of human pollutants in natural systems. As a growing initiative of conservation organizations focused on preserving their habitat, Bald Eagle populations rebounded. In 1995, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reclassified the species from “endangered” to “threatened” and in 2007 it was de-listed entirely. Today, there are more than 71,400 nesting pairs of Bald Eagles across the lower 48 states.

The Bald Eagle teetered on the brink of extinction but made a miraculous comeback due to the efforts of groups of people dedicated to preserving these magnificent animals and their habitats.

The Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust is proud to contribute to the conservation of our natural resources.

by Stephanie Contreras, Highlands

Cashiers Land Trust

by Andrew Renfro

photo

Photo by Susan Renfro

Keeping Hearts in Balance

FFor Cover Artist Fred Crawford, photography is, like so much of his life, a matter of the heart.

red Crawford is an exceptional artist in two arenas: heart surgery and wildlife photography. Wearing either hat, he’s always at the top of his game.

As professor emeritus and Medical University of South Carolina’s chief heart surgeon, he’s saved lives, taught others how to save them, and now

captures lives in other ways – in stunning photographs.

Poetically speaking, a surgeon and his/ her hospital are often stitched together.

“You’re either operating or retired,” says Crawford who learned early-on that recreation and time spent with family are essential. Occasional golf, fly-fishing, and travels kept his surgical work and his

own heart in balance.

In early life, a tour in Vietnam sutured another leisure pursuit to Crawford.

He says, “I went to Viet Nam in 1970-71 as a combat surgeon. On leave, I picked up a Nikon camera in Japan. Even though I had little time to take photos then, the camera-purchase changed my life.”

Since retirement, Crawford and his wife of 56 years have enjoyed African Safaris and extended tours of the U.S.

“Photographing wildlife in Africa is amazing. No matter where you look, there’s a winning photo,” says Crawford. One of his favorite shots was that of a mother cheetah.

“I watched three young male cheetahs approach the mother and her two cubs. Juvenile males often kill young males to eliminate competition. The mother

raced to her cubs and spoke to them in Cheetah. They vanished. Mama cheetah turned and charged the three intruders, sending them skedaddling back into the bush. Once safe, she called back her cubs. They appeared out of nowhere. All was well.”

Whether shooting on African plains or Carolina mountains, there are plenty of wildlife tales to tell. Crawford is ready to snap them up, occasionally with photo buddies he’s acquired through his career.

As a self-taught photographer, he’s always ready to learn and to teach.

If you get the chance, ask him about a local bear that walked into his Cullasaja home through an open door. He’ll tell you his mouth was equally ajar!

And if you’d like a print of any of his work, contact him at crawfrdf76@gmail.com.

by Donna Rhodes

Beads of Life

For jewelry maker Shannon Noelke, everything’s unfolded precisely as it was meant.

How many of us knew exactly what we wanted to do in life at the age of four?

Jewelry maker Shannon Noelke did. Those four fingers that represented her tender age (plus her other talented six) were stringing beads like a pro, creating designs by color, shape, form, texture, and overall aesthetic.

No doubt in her mind – she was destined to be a fine craftsperson. And just like sliding beads upon a strand, she continues creating and adding gems to her life’s necklace: a marriage, a business, a hand-crafted home, a studio (Coyote Valley Art Farm), a daughter, a career. Along the way, she transitioned from beading to advanced silversmithing.

And now she can honestly say, “I found my niche and I’m making it all happen.”

Mother Earth’s natural materials are Shannon’s stock in trade:

stones, semi-precious gems, metals, and whatever winds, wanders, repurposes, or inspires. The land, and what surrounds her in Otto, is her personal treasure supply.

Same goes for her husband, Robert, a superb blacksmith, and exceptional carpenter.

Shannon supplements family income in the world of dining. She actually loves it, meeting people, making them happy with food and her hand-crafted wearables (she’s a walking jewelry display). Visit her website, shannonnoelkemetalarts.com

When you see, feel, and wear Shannon’s extensions of Mother Nature, there’s an intuitive connection to her style – an organic and fluid form, blending into Nature’s version of Art Nouveau. Experience the masculine stone and metal, the feminine curve and color, the sacred of the ancient and primal. All these elements weave in and out our own souls, renewing the sacred within.

Imagine having one of her pieces, a talisman, if you will, filled with your energy that you pass down to your offspring’s generations in decades to come.

Speaking of gens (and gems), her daughter, Stella, is pursuing painting. There are plenty of images to feature with family dogs, cats, chickens, and rabbits. Coyotes keep their distance, though their voices are often sweet night music. Visit Shannon’s work at shannonnoelkemetalarts.com. Contact her about upcoming classes. Ask about commissions and custom work. Check out features in magazines, and/or seasonal showings through her website. You can email her at shannonnoelkemetalarts@gmail.com.

by Donna Rhodes

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Highlands PAC’s 2025 Concert Season

Starting with Steep Canyon Rangers on May 11, Highlands Performing Arts Center’s concert calendar is filled with mighty and subtle sounds. Memberships and tickets are available at HighlandsPerformingArts.com.

The Highlands Performing Arts Center is thrilled to announce the 2025 Concert Season.

Our first concert will be held on Sunday, May 11, and will feature Steep Canyon Rangers. Hailing from the Appalachian and Piedmont regions of North Carolina, the three-time Grammy nominated Rangers have long held the tradition of bluegrass paramount while incorporating influence from all walks of the region. Over the band’s esteemed career, the three-time Grammy nominees have released 14 studio albums, three collaborative albums with actor and banjoist Steve Martin, been inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame, and appeared on some of music’s biggest stages.

Sunday, June 1, brings Glory Crampton & 3 Tenors to the Main Stage. Glory Crampton, who originated Christine in the acclaimed musical Phantom by Maury Yeston and Arthur Kopit, brings her renowned voice to Three Tenors & a Soprano. Crampton has performed with opera legend José Carreras (of The Three Tenors) at Radio City Music Hall with the esteemed Orchestra of St. Luke’s. Joining her are tenors Marc Devigne, Daniel Montenegro, and Nicholas Rodriguez, creating a captivating blend of pop, opera, and Broadway talent.

Friday, July 18, features Rodney Marsalis’ Philadelphia Big Brass. The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass is America’s premier large brass ensemble. A group that always reflects the diverse makeup of men and women in the American culture, RMPBB is dedicated to the notion that music is a gift to be enjoyed by everyone. This is a family-owned and operated musical business that had its beginnings on the

streets of New Orleans.

Sunday, July 20, brings us The Modern Gentlemen. Brothers Brian and Brandon Brigham, along with Landon Beard and Todd Fournier, rose to prominence as longtime members of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame band, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Hailed as “The Modern Day Keepers of the Classics,” they’ve earned acclaim for reimagining a new season of timeless hits and harmony connecting generations! Together, their harmonies are unparalleled with seamless transitioning between genres and eras that transcend time.

Saturday, September 30, the PAC will present Mercury: Stories & Songs of Queen’s Legendary Singer. With his extraordinary vocal range, countertenor Terry Barber celebrates Queen’s Freddie Mercury, blending hit songs with stories from Mercury’s life. More than a concert, this tribute offers an intimate look at a rock legend who defined a generation. Barber’s concept recording of this material is up for eight Grammy nominations.

Saturday, September 27, brings Jazz to Highlands with the Brubeck Brothers Quartet. Chris and Dan Brubeck have been making music together practically all their lives. Drummer Dan and bassist, trombonist, and composer Chris cut their first record together in 1966 more than a half-century ago. They’ve subsequently played a variety of styles in several different groups, as well as with their father, jazz giant Dave Brubeck, and their own Brubeck Brothers Quartet. With Dan and Chris as the foundation, guitarist Mike DeMicco and pianist Chuck Lamb complete this dynamic Quartet.

On Friday, November 14, Yacht Rock Gold Experience will be here to perform. One of the most commercially successful musical genres of all time, Yacht Rock has built a loyal and unwavering fan base who are today’s prime ticket buying audience. Yacht Rock Gold Experience brings all your favorite hits from the late 1970’s-early 1980’s to new generations of music fans. Celebrating the smooth sounds of the Doobie Brothers, Fleetwood Mac, Steely Dan, Christopher Cross, Kenny Loggins, Little River Band, Ambrosia, Boz Scaggs and so many more, Yacht Rock Gold Experience engages fans with amazing harmonies and musicianship that brings audiences back to a time when music made you feel good and soothed the soul.

Our final concert on Friday, November 28, is Nashville Noel. Since its inception, Nashville Noel has become a beloved tradition for fans of Country music and Christmas enthusiasts alike. The show features a talented cast of musicians, singers, and dancers from the South who come together to deliver a high-energy performance that captures the essence of Nashville’s rich musical heritage and the warmth of the holiday season.

With a mix of classic Country hits and beloved Christmas carols, Nashville Noel takes audiences on a musical journey that celebrates the magic of both genres. From toe-tapping renditions of iconic Country songs to heartwarming performances of beloved holiday classics, the show offers a perfect blend of nostalgia, joy, and festive cheer. by Jeanne Piazza, Executive Director, Highlands PAC

Pre-Season Events

Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival’s trio of pre-season events sets the stage for a summer laced with surprises. Visit h-cmusicfestival.org to learn more about this summer’s performances.

Julie Coucheron and William Ransom

The Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival returns this spring and summer, offering audiences a deep dive into the world of chamber music with performances that bring each note, phrase, and composition into sharp focus.

The 44th regular season, July 5 – August 10, invites listeners to experience the artistry of musicians who challenge, explore, and celebrate the power of small ensembles.

The 2025 season debuts with three June events, each offering a unique perspective on what’s ahead.

On June 17, a new Steinway piano will take its place as a centerpiece for performances at the Village Green in Cashiers. A free community concert at Lewis Hall, followed by a reception, will introduce the instrument to the Plateau with a program that showcases its expressive range and potential.

June 25 brings the Mountain Music Soirée, a one-of-a-kind evening at the home of Greg and Mary Thompson. Pianists Julie Coucheron and William Ransom will perform a program of works for four hands, with a special surprise guest adding an element of intrigue. This intimate concert, paired with a gourmet dinner, exemplifies the festival’s ability to connect audiences and artists in meaningful, memorable ways.

On June 29, Winds at the Bascom highlights the color and texture of wind ensemble repertoire. Featuring James Zellers on flute, Alexandra Prior on oboe, Ryan Little on French horn, and other accomplished musicians, the program promises to reveal the precision and interplay that define great chamber music.

The festival’s opening concerts on July 5 in Highlands and July 6 in Cashiers will set the tone for a dynamic regular season. Titled The Old and the New, the

program features the North Carolina premiere of Paul Coletti’s Viola Quintet, performed by the Viano Quartet with Coletti himself on viola. The concert also includes Haydn’s String Quartet and Mendelssohn’s Viola Quintet.

A major highlight of the season is the Gala Concert, CelloBration, on August 10, which closes the regular season with Grammy-award winning cellist Zuill Bailey. Leading an ensemble of eight cellos, Bailey promises a dynamic and unforgettable performance that celebrates the depth and versatility of the instrument.

From the nuanced interplay of strings to the bold statements of winds and piano, this season demonstrates the timelessness and innovation of the genre.

by Marlene Osteen

Our Favorite Theatre

Mountain Theatre Company earns a host of international wins at BroadwayWorld’s 2024 Regional Awards.

Mountain Theatre Company is honored to have received four wins in BroadwayWorld’s 2024 Regional Awards, including the coveted title of Favorite Regional Theatre.

BroadwayWorld’s 2024 Regional Awards honor regional productions, touring shows, and more who had their first performance between October 1, 2023 through September 30, 2024.

This year, the BroadwayWorld Regional Awards were bigger and better than ever, including 100 cities across America, Canada, Central and South America, Europe, and Asia.

The BroadwayWorld Awards recognize excellence in regional theatre, and Mountain Theatre Company’s wins are a testament to the company’s commitment to producing high-quality, engaging productions. In addition to Favorite Local Theatre, Mountain Theatre Company‘s awards include three additional categories. Al Dollar took home the award for Favorite Performer in a Musical for his performance as agent Carl Hanratty in this summer’s, Catch Me If You Can. Melody Munitz was honored as Best Supporting

Performer in a Musical, delivering a standout performance as Brenda Strong in Catch Me If You Can. Rounding out the awards included my recognition for Best Choreography in Catch Me If You Can. These individual wins prove the company’s commitment to nurturing and showcasing talented artists.

“We are overjoyed and humbled,” said Scott Daniel, Executive Artistic Director of Mountain Theatre Company. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of MTC’s talented cast, crew and staff.”

Mountain Theatre Company is already looking to the future, with an exciting, jam-packed family-friendly 2025 season in its 87th year. This summer begins with a nostalgic double bill as The Marvelous Wonderettes and Forever Plaid run in repertory.

“By running these two shows in repertory, Mountain Theatre Company offers audiences the unique opportunity to experience two distinct productions, each with its own talented cast, costumes, and incredible creative team” said Scott Daniel.

The Summer continues with The Burnt Part Boys. Mountain Theatre Company

postponed this production in 2024 due to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. This critically acclaimed musical set in the Appalachian Mountains featuring a bluegrass inspired Broadway score, tells the story of brotherhood, hope, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Rounding out the 2025 season is the return of Mountain Theatre Company’s beloved holiday tradition, Home for the Holidays. This all-new production of festive favorites, original arrangements, and non-stop dancing is a joyful celebration of the season.

As Mountain Theatre Company looks to the future, we’re reminded that the survival of regional theaters is more precarious than ever. By making a donation or becoming a sponsor, you’ll be helping to ensure that Mountain Theatre Company continues to be your Favorite Regional Theater for the next 87 years.

For more information about Mountain Theatre Company, please visit our website at mountaintheatre.com.

by Erin Leigh Knowles, Mountain Theatre Company

Inside HCP’s The Outsider

Highlands Cashiers Players turns the comedic spotlight on 21st century political shenanigans and silliness – March 20 through 30.

The Outsider Cast, Left to Right: April Getz, Craig Eister, Ron Leslie, Julie Harris and Ted Rosensweig.

Live theater – the mere mention ignites the imagination as you take a moment to leave the real world behind for a night and immerse yourself in a story other than your own. For those familiar with the Highlands Cashiers Players you know that this ensemble always delights. For the uninitiated, this is your chance to become a devotee as they present their spring production of The Outsider at the Performing Arts Center, March 20 through 30.

Director Michael Lanzillota, who has directed five HCP productions, and acted in countless more, can’t stress enough how enjoyable this non-partisan political satire is, while at the same time being an inspirational tribute to democracy. Assistant director Cathy Myers and line coach Jayne Pleasants work alongside Michael to ensure seamless production. This fast-paced story finds Lt. Governor Ned Newley, an expert at

policy and governance but a disaster at public speaking, unexpectedly thrust into the position of Governor, after his predecessor was removed from office due to a scandal.

Ron Leslie, no stranger to the local stage, brings Governor Newley to life as a man of impressive ability but little confidence, leaving him in the hands of a loyal staff trying to keep the ship afloat.

Enter his Chief of Staff Dave Riley, played by Craig Eister, returning to the Highlands stage for the first time since the Pandemic.

Earnest Dave has years’ of government experience but he’s a bit naïve about politics. He and pollster Paige Caldwell, played by April Getz, are working hard to avoid a special election to replace Ned, whose initial public appearance was so disastrous he’s facing an impeachment vote.

First on the scene is big-time political consultant Arthur Vance, played by

Randy Lucas, a HCP veteran, whose chameleon-like talents bring the overbearing Arthur to life.

Arthur hires Louise Peakes, a bubbly and confident though dimwitted office temp as the Governor’s assistant. Louise is played to perfection by Diandra Mundy.

Until now we’ve been reminded that in politics the less you know and the better you look the higher you will go. Luckily an encounter with Rachel Parsons, a seasoned though jaded TV reporter, played by Julie Harris, and her cameraman, A.C. Patterson, played by stage newcomer Ted Rosensweig, brings everyone back down to earth and thinking straight again. For tickets visit highlandscashiersplayers.com.

by Mary Jane McCall

The Bascom’s Clay Symposiums

A pair of symposia at The Bascom is an invitation to play in the clay.

The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts has set the return of its celebrated Clay Symposiums in 2025. These dynamic events offer ceramic artists, collectors, and enthusiasts a rare opportunity to explore the transformative power of clay through interactive demonstrations, insightful keynote addresses, and an accompanying exhibition.

Postponed from 2024 due to Hurricane Helene, the 14th Annual Bascom Clay Symposium: Symbolism in Expressive Narrative has been rescheduled for April 11–12, while the 15th Annual Clay Symposium: Forms of Inspiration will take place as planned on September 26–27, coinciding with The Bascom’s milestone 40th-anniversary celebrations.

The 14th Annual Bascom Clay Symposium: Symbolism in Expressive Narrative will feature distinguished ceramic artists —Christine Kosiba, Andréa Keys Connell, and Taylor Robenalt —specializing in animal and figurative sculpture. Attendees will experience artist demonstrations, a keynote address by Stephanie Moore, Executive Director of The Center for Craft (Asheville), and a public reception followed by a show and sale of the artists’ work.

These exclusive pieces, created by the participating artists, will be available during the symposium, offering a special opportunity for attendees to acquire unique works that are not typically available in The Bascom’s retail space.

Schedule of Events

Friday, April 11

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Keynote Address by Stephanie Moore, followed by a reception and show/sale of the featured artists’ works in The Bascom’s Greehey Atrium Gallery.

Saturday, April 12

10:00 A.M. – Noon: Artist demonstrations by Christine Kosiba, Andréa Keys Connell, and Taylor Robenalt.

1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.: Continuation of artist demonstrations.

The 15th Annual Bascom Clay Symposium: Forms of Inspiration will focus on figurative ceramic sculpture, showcasing the work of Kirsten Stingle,

Natasha Dikareva, and Thaddeus Erdahl, each known for their innovative approaches to clay and mixed media. The keynote address will be delivered by Bethany Chaney, Executive Director of the John C. Campbell Folk School, followed by a public reception.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to enjoy the accompanying exhibition, Forms of Inspiration: Ceramic Artists of the Bascom Clay Symposium, where select works by the participating artists will be available for purchase. This provides a rare chance to collect distinctive pieces that reflect the artists’ unique styles and extraordinary craftsmanship.

Schedule of Events

Friday, September 26

4:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.: Keynote Address by Bethany Chaney, followed by a public reception.

Saturday, September 27

10:00 A.M. – Noon and 1:00 P.M. –4:00 P.M.: Artist demonstrations by Kirsten Stingle, Natasha Dikareva, and Thaddeus Erdahl.

A special exhibition, Forms of Inspiration: Ceramic Artists of the Bascom Clay Symposium, will complement the Fall Symposium.

Exhibition Dates:

Joel Gallery: August 30 to November 29

Fall Exhibitions Reception: September 4.

5:00 P.M.

This reception will celebrate The Bascom’s fall exhibitions, including: Forms of Inspiration: Ceramic Artists of The Bascom Clay Symposium

Chatov: A Retrospective of Works by Roman, Constantin, and Marc Chatov

Community Call: History of Highlands

Celebrating 40 Years of The Bascom

As The Bascom celebrates its 40th anniversary, the Clay Symposia exemplify the organization’s commitment to fostering creativity and building community through the visual arts. For 15 years, The Bascom Clay Symposium has brought together luminaries such as Ben Owen III, Michael Sherrill, Cynthia Bringle, Cristina Córdova, and Jim Connell. In 2025, this rich tradition continues, offering dynamic and inspiring experiences for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the world of clay. Thanks to the generosity of Bascom sponsors, both symposiums and the accompanying Fall exhibition are free and open to the public, inviting everyone to participate—whether they drop in or attend the entire event.

by Bianca Mitchell, The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts

Highlands Supper Club

The Highlands Supper Club is a return to fine dining in a treasured Joe Webb Cabin and a menu that’s reverent to its roots, yet playful in its presentation. It’s located at 130 Log Cabin Lane – call (828) 482-1578 for reservations.

Few restaurant openings in Highlands have been as eagerly anticipated as the Highlands Supper Club at Trailborn Highlands. Housed in one of the town’s most beloved dining spaces – a historic Joe Webb cabin that was home to the Log Cabin Restaurant for decades – the Highlands Supper Club arrives not just as a new restaurant but as a revival of a place that holds deep roots in the community. When several years ago the building fell into disrepair, its fate seemed uncertain. Then two years ago the team behind Trailborn Highlands acquired the property. They saw a landmark worth saving – an opportunity not just to restore the structure but to bring it back to life with a restaurant that honors its past while shaping its future.

Restoration was neither rushed nor

superficial. Today, the restaurant urges you to draw a deep breath, settle down, and permit yourself to indulge. The wide plank floors gleam, the wood-paneled walls glow, and custom wallpaper inspired by indigenous rhododendrons adds warmth without affectation.

The addition of a bar creates a natural gathering place, with spirit-forward cocktails like a bacon-washed Old Fashioned and a selection of North Carolina beers that signal both reverence for place and a contemporary perspective.

If the structure speaks to history, the kitchen is all about honoring Southern food without reducing it to cliché. Indeed, the reputation for comfort and flavor in the Southern food arsenal is in safe hands with Aaron Kulzer, a Mississippi-born chef who arrived in Highlands after a career that zigzagged through fine-dining kitchens and

high-end hotel restaurants across the South. He’s cooked everything from foie gras to grouper collars, but at Highlands Supper Club, he has found his sweet spot – Southern food that respects its roots while embracing finesse.

Raised in a family where food was central, Kulzer took the long road to professional kitchens, abandoning nursing school for a dishwasher gig before working his way through restaurants in Portland, Houston, Biloxi, and Florida. His time at Biloxi’s White House Hotel and Longboat Key’s Mar Vista sharpened his ability to refine Southern dishes without compromising their integrity.

And in Highlands, he’s doing just that. “My goal is to create an experience through food,” he says. “Bringing memory back to where you are and connecting a dish with a place.”

The menu is built on dishes that read as familiar but unfold with deliberate refinement. Deviled eggs, too often an afterthought, are layered and luxurious – topped with candied Benton’s bacon, smoked tomato, and blue crab. The pork belly on Anson Mills grits is slow braised in stock with fennel and onion, its richness heightened by grits simmered in milk and heavy cream. Mac n’ cheese arrives in a searing hot cast iron skillet out of which blooms aromas of creamy Ash County cheddar and Parmesan cheese.

There is an elegance to the main courses that never lapses into pretense. A bavette steak, cooked to a perfect medium-rare, is paired with garlic confit mashed potatoes and earthy oyster mushrooms.

The local North Carolina trout, dredged in pecan flour and sautéed, arrives with brown butter acorn squash, its flavors clean and deeply satisfying. Perhaps the biggest surprise is the mushroom barbecue – a vegan dish that feels right at home on the menu, not as an obligatory

nod to plant-based cooking but as an earnest exploration of Southern flavors.

Lion’s mane mushrooms, sourced from a local forager, are smoked, tossed in a Carolina vinegar barbecue sauce, and served with smashed fingerling potatoes and asparagus. It does not mimic meat, nor does it need to.

And then there are the biscuits. Kulzer’s approach is all technique – grating butter into pastry flour to achieve biscuits so impossibly flaky they seem to hover above the plate. In the pantheon of Southern biscuits, they rise, buoyed by their own airiness, to a heavenly hereafter. Impossible to stop eating, it’s the kind of dish that begins as an appetizer and is requested again for dessert. Because why not?

Desserts stay within the realm of comfort. Apple cobbler arrives just as it should—warm, its sweetness lifted rather than buried by the fruit. Mud pie is unapologetically rich, leaning into the deeper, darker tendencies of chocolate.

To pair with the meal, the restaurant

offers a short but well-considered wine list, spanning major regions and varietals. The selections have clearly been chosen with intent – offering something distinct without overshadowing the food. Thoughtfully selected reds and whites complement and enhance the Southern flavors – reds provide structure and depth, while whites and lighter-bodied wines bring acidity and contrast to the richness of Southern flavors.

Highlands Supper Club is not trying to rewrite Southern food. It’s doing something far more difficult – getting it exactly right. Kulzer isn’t concerned with proving anything, only with delivering food that resonates, food that makes sense in a place like this.

The restaurant, much like the building it inhabits, is a restoration in the truest sense – not a reinvention, but a return to form.

by Marlene Osteen

photos by Susan Renfro

A Sensory Time Machine

Oh, Divine Vintage, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways.

Marlene Osteen

Even though this is our March Issue, I’m writing this at the start of the new year, reflecting on past and future events, my thoughts turn to how life’s milestones shape our wine tastes and choices.

More than just a beverage, wine is a sensory time machine that carries the weight of our personal and cultural stories. Wine is fireworks for the brain – a multi-sensory experience that stimulates all the senses and has the ability to kick off time travel.

I sip a Domaine Weinbach Riesling, a fresh, playful and flinty wine, and I am again in Kayserburg in Alsace, France, in February. Snow is falling as a bride and groom, clad in their wedding attire, burst from the open doors of the country church, descending the steps in dance as the snow swirls around them.

Do I drink wine to recapture the past? Perhaps.

Champagne redolent of yeast recalls

biscuits being lifted from a pan in my kitchen – I can see my husband painting melted butter atop a tray of glistening biscuits (already far too buttery for common sense).

And I can never smell the dusty aromas in a glass of Pinot Noir without being taken back to a cold winter afternoon in Mongeard Mugneret’s wine cellar in Burgundy. Though the damp cellar floor seeps through my thin-soled boots, I am surrounded by the mushroom scented forest and warmed by flavors of sweet cherries mingled with warm spices in a glass of Echezeaux.

One fascinating experiment paired a robust Cabernet Sauvignon with two different playlists: an intense classical piece and a cheerful pop song. Participants described the wine as “bolder” and “more powerful” with the classical music but noted brighter fruit tones with the pop.

When tasting notes suggest “blackber-

ries and leather,” your brain actively seeks those flavors. In blind tastings, however, those same wines might evoke entirely different impressions. Even the design of a wine label can influence taste perception. Elegant fonts and gold embellishments might lead us to expect a richer, more luxurious wine, while playful graphics and bright colors suggest a lighter, fruitier flavor.

This phenomenon extends beyond aesthetics – it’s about storytelling. A wine label that evokes history or place can create a connection before the bottle is even opened.

So, the next time you pour a glass, consider what you’re truly tasting. Is it just the wine, or is it the music in the background, the story on the label, and the echoes of your personality, history, and imagination, all converging in the glass?

by Marlene Osteen photo by Susan Renfro

Chef’s in the House

Old Edwards Inn and Spa has unveiled a calendar loaded with its exclusive Chef Dinners. First up, Pitmaster Carey Bringle of Peg Leg Porker on May 29. For more information and to book your spot visit oldedwardshospitality.com/chefdinners.

Since 2018, Old Edwards Inn and Spa has been inviting some of the South’s most imaginative chefs into its kitchens, creating an intersection of culinary artistry and intimate dining experiences. What started as the “Chefs in the House” series has grown into a celebrated tradition, now known as the Old Edwards Chef Dinners.

This series has earned a reputation for redefining what it means to share a meal, blending flavors, stories, and a sense of place into something truly unforgettable.

The 2025 series carries forward this legacy, welcoming an exciting lineup of chefs from across the Southeast and beyond. From a smoky Tennessee barbecue feast to an elegant dinner inspired by the South of France, each event is a one-night-only opportunity to experience the artistry of chefs whose dishes tell a story.

Hosted at The Farm at Old Edwards and Half-Mile Farm, these dinners combine set menus, thoughtful wine pairings, and the kind of collaboration that turns an evening into a memory.

The season begins on May 29 with Nashville’s Pitmaster Carey Bringle of Peg Leg Porker. Bringle’s signature barbecue brings the heat to The Farm, where his menu will showcase his mastery of smoked meats and traditional Southern sides, all served with a modern edge. It’s an evening sure to leave the

scent of hickory smoke and the rhythm of live music lingering long after the last bite.

June 26 shifts the focus to the vibrant flavors of summer, as Chef Chris Hall of Local Three in Atlanta leads an evening of fresh, seasonal cuisine. Known for his ingredient-driven approach, Hall will craft a menu that captures the spirit of summer on a plate, perfectly paired with light, refreshing beverages.

On July 17, the annual Pol Roger Champagne Dinner brings effervescence to the table and live music to the stage. This multi-course experience will pair the delicate nuances of Pol Roger Champagnes with a menu designed to complement every sip. This event, now in its thirteenth year, continues to be a cornerstone of the series.

The 4th Annual Sunday Supper, held on August 24, takes guests on a culinary journey to the South of France. Chef Joe Cash of Scoundrel in Greenville will channel Provençal flavors, weaving fresh seafood, fragrant herbs, and rustic techniques into a menu that feels like a Mediterranean escape, right in Highlands.

Seafood takes center stage again on September 28 at the 7th Annual Oyster & Seafood Fest, featuring Lowcountry Oyster Co. and guest chefs Sara Prezioso of Charleston Bay Gourmet and Kathryn Fitzgerald of Regina’s in Asheville with ingenious

curated cocktails from Chemist Spirits. From oysters served every way imaginable to coastal-inspired dishes, this event is a must for seafood lovers.

October 26 brings the Southern Chefs Potluck, a collaborative feast featuring Sam Fore of Tuk Tuk Snack Shop in Lexington, David Bancroft of Acre in Auburn, and Cory Bahr of Parish in Monroe. This laid-back evening is all about community and the comfort of sharing hearty, soulful dishes prepared by some of the South’s most inventive and thoughtful cooks.

The annual Farm Harvest Dinner on November 14 will feature Old Edwards Chefs and Culinary Teams, plus local farmers at The Farm at Old Edwards.

The series wraps up on November 15 with Fall’s Finest Dinner at Half-Mile Farm. Chef Terry Koval of The Deer and The Dove will join the Old Edwards Culinary Team to celebrate the season with a menu rooted in fall flavors and crafted with precision and care.

Each dinner in the 2025 Old Edwards Chef Series offers a chance to explore bold culinary expressions in the warm embrace of Southern hospitality.

by Marlene Osteen

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Zookeeper’s Quiche

Zookeeper Bistro’s quiches are crafted with a reverence for the classic recipe and imbued with creative culinary instincts.

Quiche first came to the attention of the American public in the 1950’s when Craig Claiborne, who started as food editor of the New York Times in 1957, created the classic recipe with bacon, onion, and cheese to fill a pie dish.

The original Quiche Lorraine came to us from Alsace-Lorraine. that beautiful region of France bordering the Rhine, Germany, and Switzerland where the cookery is simple and elegant, and the cuisine is classed as one of its most enduring arts. Years later Julie Child reminisced about her love of quiches writing, “What lovely little suppers we used to have in the sixties, when real people ate quiche.”

In Cashiers, Zookeeper Bistro owners John and Tanya Saporito have perpetuated this savory French tradition, serving up their luscious buttery, bacon-y, and custardy renditions since opening their doors 16 years ago.

On busy weekends, Chef John frequently supplements the classic recipe with a second variation that reflects seasonal ingredients and the kitchen’s creative approach. So adored is the restaurant’s quiche that enthusiastic customers frequently take them home by the dozen for gatherings and gifts.

Though some theories vary regarding the ingredients of the original quiche, some factors are unchanging – the basic pastry shell and the egg and cream which fill it.

At Zookeeper, this is generously enriched by additions of bacon, ham, and cheese.

The recipe which follows is one of the best. Zookeeper’s quiche, creamy and golden, tender of filling and flaky of crust, with a lush richness, needs only the accompaniment of a simple salad to turn it into dinner.

Zookeeper Bistro Quiche Recipe

For the Pie Shell 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

Tanya Saporito

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes

3-4 tablespoons ice water

Instructions for Pie Shell

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.

2. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough holds together.

4. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

5. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate. Press into the plate, trim excess dough, and crimp the edges. Chill while preparing the filling.

For the Quiche Filling

1 quart heavy whipping cream

5 large eggs

Salt and pepper to taste

4 oz diced bacon

4 oz diced cooked ham

2 oz diced sweet onion

1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese

Instructions for Filling

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. In a bowl, thoroughly whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. In a skillet, sauté the bacon until crispy. Add the onion and ham, and sauté for an additional 5 minutes. Let the mixture cool slightly.

4. Spread the cooled bacon, onion, and ham mixture evenly in the prepared pie shell. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese on top.

5. Pour the egg and cream mixture over the filling, ensuring it covers the ingredients evenly.

6. Bake for 50 minutes, or until the quiche is set and lightly golden on top.

7. Let the quiche rest for 15 minutes before slicing into 4-6 pieces. Serve warm or at room temperature.

by Marlene Osteen / photos by Susan Renfro

The Wine Bar at Outpost Inn

With its clever curator and deep inventory, Outpost Inn’s exquisite Wine Bar is the perfect setting for contemplation, conversation, and bold convictions. Discover for yourself at 790 North 4th Street in Highlands.

On the cold January evening I visited, the Outpost Inn was a joyous, picture-bookperfect version of a mountain country guesthouse. At the new wine bar, folks gathered around the wooden-topped bar, above which handwoven baskets dangled. On the facing wall, a shelf displayed antique bottles and weathered jars. Turkish rugs, faded with character, softened the rough-hewn floors, and a freestanding fireplace crackled, casting a glow on the mounted deer heads that watched over the room like silent sentinels.

At the heart of it all is Jeremy Carter, the wine bar’s curator and charismatic impresario. Cheerful and hospitable, he welcomes guests with an easy grin and eagerness to share his deep knowledge of boutique, small, handcrafted American wines. Carter has a solid pedigree.

Before coming to Outpost, he worked for legendary California Winers – among them Chappellet and Duckhorn – and later was co-owner and winemaker at Tarpon Cellars. His experience is as layered as the wine he pours.

Outpost Inn owner Jason Reves was thrilled when Carter joined the team, having already begun overhauling the beverage program at Highlander Mountain House, another property Reves owns.

While the vision for the Outpost Wine Bar was Reves’s – his passion being to create a mountain-inspired version of a French wine spot – Carter’s expertise and deep knowledge of natural, biodynamic wines made him the perfect partner to bring that vision to life.

As Carter put it, “this felt like a fun and natural collaboration,” blending Reves’s concept with his thoughtful approach to

the beverage program. But this isn’t just about aesthetics. While the atmosphere nods to the charm of a rural French inn, the wine choices are refreshingly unconventional – favoring natural, biodynamic, and organic selections that break from tradition. In fact, Carter’s wine list is a rebellion against the bold, over-extracted styles often synonymous with American wine. Instead, he seeks out small, independent producers focused on organic and biodynamic practices – wines with soul, nuance, and a story to tell.

In an industry where traditional wine sales face a steady decline, Carter’s focus on natural, minimal-intervention wines feels not just intentional but timely. These are wines farmed without chemical crutches, crafted with a light hand, and resonating with younger drinkers who are mindful of health and

sustainability, caring as much about the process as the pour.

Admittedly, I was skeptical when I learned about the wine bar’s offerings. Natural wines? I had been down that road before and was, frankly, underwhelmed. But Carter assured me that the world of minimal-intervention wines had come a long way since then, improving their techniques, eliminating the flaws found in earlier vintages. And he was right – my tasting that evening proved it. I didn’t just find one wine I liked; I discovered several I’d happily seek out again.

The Outpost Wine Bar keeps things fresh and focused with a rotating selection of six to eight wines that change every six to eight weeks. When I visited the lineup included two red wines, one traditional white, a skin contact or orange wine and two rosés. Among my favorites was a Pet Nat rosé from Field Recordings. A total standout, it was crisp, effervescent and bursting with personality. I was delighted by a

Malvasia from Birichino, a light-bodied wine with bright acidity and delicate floral notes.

Also outstanding was the Kivelstadt “Twice Removed” Rosé of Grenaches, reminiscent of a Provence rosé with flavors of apricot and watermelon and subtle strawberry. And I would happily have another glass of either of the red selections. The Jolie Laide “Glou d’Etat,” a light refreshing red blend made in a fun and irreverent style (I learned later it was foot-stomped) was fresh and tart with cranberry and orange notes. Then there was the Time Place Grenaches. Its label featuring a sunrise over the Stono river – a familiar sight from my hometown of Charleston. It’s a beautifully ripe wine, bursting with blackberry, cassis and a hint of white pepper on the nose.

Of course, great wine deserves great food and the Outpost Wine delivers on that front as well. The menu is a thoughtful mix of small plates designed to complement the wine selections

without overwhelming them. There are Mediterranean-spiced mixed nuts, perfect for nibbling between sips, and a creamy Sunburst Farms smoked trout dip, served with crisp smoked paprika lavash for just the right amount of crunch.

The house-made za’atar potato chips, seasoned with a bold Spicewalla blend, are irresistibly addictive. For something more substantial, the Appalachian charcuterie board showcases regional favorites like Sweet Grass Dairy cheeses and Spotted Trotter salami—a perfect pairing with just about any pour. And for a touch of indulgence, there’s Hackleback caviar from Tennessee River sturgeon roe, elegantly served with crème fraiche and chips. It’s a menu that feels thoughtful and inviting, with flavors that play as well together as the wines in your glass.

The Wine Bar at Outpost Inn is open Thursday through Saturday from 5:00 to 10:00 P.M.

by Marlene Osteen / photos by Susan Renfro

A Bite Of History

For one deliriously delicious stretch, Southern Jackson County transforms into Hamburger Heaven –April 26 through May 4. Pick up a Passport at the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce, then visit participating establishments, and embrace your inner carnivore.

Picture this: It’s fourth-century Rome, and a mouthwatering aroma lures you to a vendor’s stall. You haggle for a burger—well, the precursor to today’s version. This baked beef patty, blended with pine kernels, black and green pepper, and a splash of white wine, is fit for a Caesar. The combination of bold flavors and the wine’s subtle depth creates a sensational ground-round rissole.

Holy McCow!

Congratulations, you’ve just discovered the world’s first burger.

Fast-Forward 17 centuries to Cashiers Burger Week!

Now in its third year, Cashiers Burger Week runs from April 26 through May 4, featuring incredible burgers all across the mountains.

How It Works

Each participating restaurant will craft a one-of-a-kind burger for the week.

Pick up your Burger Week Passport at the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce.

Present your passport when you order a featured burger and receive a stamp from the restaurant.

Collect stamps from three different restaurants to vote for Favorite Burger and Most Creative Burger—and to enter a prize drawing.

Collect five or more stamps for an extra entry into additional prize drawings!

For more details, visit cashiersburgerweek.com/faqs — where you and fantastic flavors can finally meat.

Scan to learn more.

Plateau Dining Guide

Restaurants of the Highlands Cashiers Plateau

HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS

CASHIERS, NC

Buck’s Coffee Cafe - (828) 743-9997

Cashiers Valley Smokehouse - (828) 547-2096

Chile Loco - (828) 743-1160

Cornucopia Restaurant - (828) 743-3750

El Manzanillo - (828) 743-5522

On the Side BBQ - (828) 743-4334

The Orchard - (828) 743-7614

Native Prime Provisions (828) 743-3743

Subway - (828) 743-1300

Ugly Dog - (828) 743-3000

Whiteside Brewing Company - (828) 743-6000

GLENVILLE, NC

Happ’s Place - (828) 743-5700

The Local - (828) 743-7778

SCALY, NC

Magliocca’s Ristorante - (828) 526-0803

HIGHLANDS,

NC

Asia House - (828) 787-1680

Black Bear Cafe - (828) 482-7020

The Blue Bike Cafe - (828) 526-9922

Bryson’s Deli - (828) 526-3775

Divine South Baking Company - (828) 421-2042

Dusty’s - (828) 526-2762

El Azteca - (828) 526-2244

Fressers Courtyard Cafe - (828) 526-4188

Highlands Pizza Place - (828) 305-7700

Highlands Smokehouse - (828) 526-3554

Highlands Tavern - (828) 526-9002

Lakeside Restaurant - (828) 526-9419

Madison’s Restaurant - (828) 787-2525

Mountain Fresh - (828) 526-2400

Paoletti’s- (828) 526-4906

Rosewood Market - (828) 526-0383

The Ruffed Grouse - (828) 526-2590

Secret Garden - (828) 305-7509

Spinx Highlands - (828) 526-4191

The Stubborn Seed - (828) 200-0813

Subway - (828) 526-1706

Wild Thyme Gourmet - (828) 526-4035

LAKE TOXAWAY, NC

Grand Olde Station - (828) 966-4242

Los Vaqueros - (828) 966-7662

Sweetwater Perk & Creamery, LLC - (828) 577-0469

Villa Amato (828) 885-7700

SAPPHIRE, NC

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

Jim’s Place at Sapphire Country Store - (828) 966-4011

Library Kitchen + Bar (828) 743-5512

Mica’s Restaurant - (828) 743-5740

Panthertown Cafe - (828) 862-3663

Slopeside Tavern - (828) 743-8655

Plateau Lodging Guide

Accommodations on the Highlands Cashiers Plateau

BREVARD, NC:

Meraki Escape - (828) 463-7440

CASHIERS, NC:

High Hampton Resort - (800) 648-4252

Hotel Cashiers - (828) 743-7706

The Lakehouse - (904) 753-0247

Landmark Vacation Rentals- (877) 926-1780

Mountain Vacation Rentals - (828) 743-0258

The Orchard

Guest Cottage - (828) 743-7614

Pebble Creek Village - (828) 743-0623

Silver Creek

Vacation Rentals - (828) 743-1999

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

FRANKLIN, NC:

Southern Belles

Glamping - (828) 371-9890

GLENVILLE, NC:

Innisfree Bed & Breakfast - (828) 743-2946

Mountain Lake Rentals - (828) 743-6875

Property Rentals - (828) 743-3482

HIGHLANDS, NC:

200 Main - (855) 271-2809

Berkshire Realty Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-1717

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

Fairview House - (866) 526-8008

Half Mile Farm - (855) 271-7246

Highlander Mountain House - (828) 526-2590

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

Highlands Inn - (828) 526-9380

Highlands Inn Lodge - (828) 526-5899

Highlands Resort Rentals - (828) 526-5839

The Inn at Mill Creek - 828-526-9999

Lotts of Sky - (404) 395-4000

Lullwater House - (423) 488-2799

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

Outpost Inn (828) 482-7736

Park on Main - (800) 221-5078

Ray’s Roost - (678) 534-6870

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

Rockwood Lodge - (828) 526-8919

Silver Creek Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-2999

Trailborn Highlands (828) 482-1581

Valentine Manor - (561) 613-1496

The Wells Hotel - (828) 482-7736

Whiteside Cove Cottages - (828) 526-2222

SAPPHIRE, NC:

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

Foxhunt at Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-7667

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

Mt Toxaway

Lodge & Motel - (828) 966-4582

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

Whispering Falls - (352) 470-4085

Woods at Buc - (770) 714-9211

SCALY MOUNTAIN, NC:

Fire Mountain Resort & Spa - (800) 775-4446

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

LAKE TOXAWAY, NC:

Cabins at Seven Foxes - (828) 877-6333

Earthshine Lodge - (828) 862-4207

Greystone Inn - (828) 966-4700

Lake Toxaway

Realty Company - (828) 508-9141

Pages 104-105

Photo by Susan Renfro

OUR MAGICAL MOUNTAIN

Hike from valley to mountaintop in this beautifully illustrated book that celebrates Highlands! Whether it’s rolling hills or babbling brooks, bears or birds- this book is sure to bring back all those cozy feelings of being away from it all.

Illustrated Highlands Book by Sarah Nunnally | $16

Acorns | Highlands

Plateau Picks A few

SOLID BUILT BEAUTY

This beautiful bed is crafted from solid cherry and ambrosia maple. Fun fact: The ambrosia maple’s streaks are caused by the ambrosia beetle. American made, the bed has clean lines and a classic mission-style design.

Cherry and Maple Panel Bed | $ 3659/King

Blue Ridge Bedding and Furniture | Cashiers

of our favorite things

ART MEETS FUNCTION

Handcrafted in Charleston, each Hook n Hide buckle is cast from Tobago – a blend of silver, gold, and brass – giving a rustic and handsome patina. And, these buckles double as a bottle opener –talk about function! The straps are crafted from genuine top-grain leather, and finished to a soft luster. More art!

Hook n Hide Leather Belt | from $ 55 Hook n Hide Buckle | from $130 Highland Hiker | Highlands

SHIMMER ON

This enchanting dragonfly necklace was created by Asheville artist Hannah Black. Featuring labradorite stones, it’s crafted using antique gold over brass and bronze. The dragonfly is here to help you to remove doubt and glitter your trail with hope. Trust the vision and shimmer on.

Dragonfly Amulet Necklace | $124

Natural Selection | Highlands

HISTORY IN

The wait is finally over for the much anticipated second edition printing of Faces and Places of Cashiers Valley book. This award-winning work includes all four phases of the Faces and Places project and a contextual history of the Cashiers Valley. With the help of talented photographer Tim Barnwell, the historic places and stories of the people who’ve called this great area home for many years are illuminated with exquisite detail.

Faces & Places of Cashiers Valley Book | $ 85 Cashiers Historical Society | Cashiers

SIMPLICITY AND GRACE

This stunning ceramic vase was created by renowned artist Keiko Coughlin. Her pieces are inspired by the Japanese ceramic tradition and the forms of the mid-century modern movement. Driven to create visual pieces that embody a strong presence and make a clear statement, Keiko executes technically challenging forms marked by simplicity, fluidity, and grace.

Fine Art Ceramic Vase | $ 475 The Bascom | Highlands

GIVE YOUR CURLS A 10

Powered by patented Olaplex Bond

Building Technology and ultra-caring Curl Retention Compound, to repair, relink and strengthen broken disulfide bonds. Waves, curls and coils are instantly more defined, shaped and revived with a touchably soft, bouncy, high-shine finish.

Opalex No. 10 | $ 30

Bombshell | Cashiers

SHOW AND TELL

Be prepared for Mother Nature’s Show and Tell Springtime with this trio of essential bird watching tools.

Birding for Beginners $1695 | Birds of the Carolinas $1695

Carson 8x42mm Binoculars | $149 99 Bird Barn | Cashiers

Visit Our Advertisers

WEST END

1. On The Verandah Restaurant

3. High Country Wine & Provisions

5. The Bascom: Center for the Visual Arts

6. The Bascom Shop

7. The Dave Drake Ceramic Barn at The Bascom

SOUTH END

23 Highlands Supper Club

25. 4118 Kitchen & Bar

27. Dauntless Printing

37. Lupoli Construction

38. Allen Tate/Pat Allen Realty Group

39. Highlands Decorating Center

44. Unfurl Wellness Spa

45. Hagan Binder Landscape Architect

48. ACP Home Interiors

50. The Summer House

51. Nancy’s Fancys/The Exchange

60. Divine South Baking Company

MAIN STREET

101. Main Street Nursery

104. Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center

106. Los Vaqueros

121. Highlands Wine Shoppe

123. The Park on Main Hotel

128. Primary Kitchen + Bar

136. Dutchmans

141. Main Street Gifts

146. Wit’s End Shoppe

147. Calders Coffee Cafe

148. Highlands Fine Art & Estate Jewelry + Wine Shop

158. C. Orrico

160. TJ Bailey for Men

166. Annawear

169. Country Club Properties

180. Bijou

187. The Dry Sink

189. The Lofts on Main

191. Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Meadows Mountain Realty

195. Old Edwards Inn

196. Madison’s Restaurant

197. The Wine Garden

198. Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar

203. Country Club Properties

210. Creative Concepts Salon

WRIGHT SQUARE on MAIN

(Factoid: Named after Whiteside hero)

115. The Baked Bunny

117. Country Club Properties, Wright Square Office

119. Highlands Pharmacy

SPRING VILLAGE

405. McCulley’s 406. Brookings

VILLAGE PARK

611. ACP Home Interiors

613. Cleaveland Realty

619. Christie’s Internatonal Real Estate Highlands Cashiers

ON THE HILL

303. Mirror Lake Antiques

306. Acorns

308. Highlands Burrito

310. McCulley’s

312. The Ugly Dog Public House

313. Old Edwards Inn

318. Peggy Crosby Center: - The Counseling Center

- The Kitchen Carry Away & Catering - Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation

319. Lakeside Restaurant NorthHighlands,Carolina

NorthHighlands,Carolina

CAROLINA VILLAGE

701. Mountain Life Properties

702. Highlands Historic Village

704. Creekside Village: - Suncoast Equity Management

709. Wayah Insurance

710. The High Dive

NORTH END

801. Green Mountain Builders

815. Highlands Cashiers Players

815. Highlands Performing Arts Center

815. Mountain Theatre Company

OUT NC 106

➡ Head Innovations

➡ Peak Experience

➡ Allan Dearth and Sons Generators

➡ Steve Holt Landscaping

➡ Highlands Outpost

OUT 64 EAST

➡ Black Rock Design Build

➡ Berkshire Hathaway Homes Services

Meadows Mountain Realty

➡ WHLC

➡ Highlands Lawn & Garden

➡ High Camp

➡ Bryson’s Grading & Paving

➡ Rejuvenate Laser Center

➡ Reclamations

➡ Allen Tate/ Pat Allen Realty Group

➡ Highlands Dermatology

➡ Roman’s Roofing

VISIT FRANKLIN

➡ Clark & Co Hardscape Supply

➡ Garcia Paint Expert

VISIT CLAYTON

➡ Calhoun Irrigation & Landscaping

➡ Clayton Merchants Business Association

➡ Mountain Lakes Physicians Group

➡ Mountain Gate Systems

➡ Willow Valley RV Resort

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

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

Visit Our Advertisers

NORTH 107

2. Zookeeper Bistro

6. Slab Town Pizza

16. Stork’s - Wrap. Pack. Ship.

19. The Look Boutique

THE SHOPS AT CASHIERS COMMONS

29. Dr. Anita, Medical Aesthetics

30. Bombshell Hair Boutique

31. The Watershed Shoppe

33. Zoller Hardware

AT THE CROSSROADS

36. Bucks Coffee Cafe

CHESTNUT SQUARE

47. Lehotsky & Sons, Builders

54. Mountain Home Consignments

55. Fusion Yoga & Wellness

55. The Bungalow Boutique

59. Las Margaritas

EAST 64

63. Alexander Gardens:

- Victoria’s Closet

- Victoria’s Closet Shoes & Purses - Vic’s for Men

72. Ingles Plaza - Allen Tate/ Pat Allen Realty Group

76. Blue Ridge Bedding & Furniture

79. Jennings Builders Supply

VILLAGE WALK

80. A-List Antiques

80. Josephine’s Emporium

80. Laura Moser Art

89. Nearly New Furniture Consignment

SOUTH 107

102. TJ Bailey’s for Men

105. Living Stone Design + Build

107. Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Meadows Mountain Realty

110. McCulley’s

111. Rusticks

115. Chestnut Cove

116. Tampa Bay Trust

113. Brookings Fly Shop & Cashiers Village Outfitters

Caliber Fine Properties

Mountainworks

Home Design LTD.

The Cashiers Store

Cashiers Sotheby’s

RealtyThe McKee Group

Bounds Cave Rug Gallery

THE VILLAGE GREEN

142. Village Green Commons

143. The Village Green

WEST 64

145. Edgewood Antiques

146. Shoppes On The Green: - Sugar Creek Custom Cabinets

155. Cashiers Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center

173. Betsy Paul Properties

176. Lenz Gifts

DOWN 107 NORTH

➡ Bazaar Barn

DOWN 107 SOUTH

➡ Silver Run Reserve

VISIT

CULLOWHEE

➡ Western Carolina University

VISIT GLENVILLE

➡ Crawford Construction

➡ Four Seasons Landscape

VISIT LAKE

TOXAWAY

➡ Blue Ridge Falls RV

➡ The Greystone Inn

➡ Headwaters Outfitters

➡ Los Vaqueros

VISIT SAPPHIRE :

➡ Casa Amigos Bar and Grill

➡ Sapphire Valley Real Estate

VISIT SYLVA :

➡ Riverstone Development Group

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

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

Pages 114-121

Photo by Susan Renfro

A Love Letter to Highlanders

Our editor’s penned a Love Letter to the Town that, like the generous spout of Moses Rock, has never failed to meet his needs and revive his spirit.

We’re going to be talking about Highlands’ 150th Birthday throughout the year, but I wanted to chime in on the start of this celebration.

My first impulse was to write about the natural beauty of this corner of the Southern Appalachians, and the sudden appearance of the transcendent in the most unexpected places – the hushed emerald cathedral at the western edge of Highlands Botanical Gardens, or the

sense that Lewis Carrol is your hiking companion as you stroll through The Bascom’s Horst Winkler Sculpture Garden, or the sight of Carolyn McCall’s thoroughbreds trotting through their pasture in Horse Cove, beneath Black Rock, for no other reason than that must be the singular delight of being a horse.

But with a minute’s reflection, I knew that the heart of this story, the heart of this magazine’s year-long valentine to my town, could only be a love note to the

people who animate Highlands.

I’m grateful to everyone here – the men and women, the old codgers and the kids – who have added so much joy to my soul, starting with my arrival in 1988.

In a way, it’s always been a welcoming place.

The Cherokee who settled here – who called themselves Tsalagi, “Mountain People” – welcomed the first English settlers in the 18th century and taught them the intricacies of living, and farming and

Luke Osteen

hunting in this harsh terrain.

Though their American neighbors would pay the Cherokee for their hospitality with the Trail of Tears, something of that gracious spirit survived on the Plateau.

When they established their agricultural/ commercial powerhouse of Highlands, Messrs. Kelsey and Hutchinson answered one of the primary questions put forth by prospective settlers: “Will people from the North be well-received?

“We are often asked the above question, and would say in reply, ‘It depends entirely upon yourself, what you come for and how you behave after you get here… But people coming here to engage in any honest, respectful pursuit, for pleasure or profit, it matters not what their opinion or previous condition, or where they are from North or South, Europe, Asia, or Africa – if they behave themselves as good citizens should in any country, they will be as well-received, as kindlytreated, and as safe from harm as in any spot in the wide world.’”

OK, so they were way off on us becoming a hub of business – K and H were as clear as the Cullasaja with their promise of overflowing hospitality. And it can’t be a coincidence that our first businesses –still thriving today – were The Highlands Inn and The Old Edwards Inn.

And at the price of leaving out a standard US Army battalion of people who’ve endeavored to make this town a tiny slice of Paradise for me and my family and all of us here, let me mention simply a few, in no particular order.

Geri Crowe and Richard Betz – the wise and bright incarnation of Town Hall, who explained things to me that no Chamber of Commerce brochure could ever reveal. Even now, years after they left town service – they know things.

The good people of Highlands United Methodist Church who, when our six-year-old son Alex became gravely ill, filled our fridge with casseroles and desserts and looked after our pets and

asked questions and listened and walked beside us as we made our way through that dark time. And we weren’t even members of the church at the time!

Dr. Patti Wheeler, who in the midst of that crisis made an after-work house call to patiently answer that frightened little boy’s questions and comfort his parents.

Robert Woodruff and his Coca-Cola Posse, who determined that Highlands would make a dandy escape from the pressures of the Outer World, securing our status as a vacation/second-home destination and making life a bit easier for those of us who are here year-round.

The deep-pocketed men and women who followed Woodruff’s example and pitched in to enrich the town’s environmental preservation efforts and the cultural landscape that has won us acclaim not only in the region, but around the world.

We can’t forget the efforts of Dr. Mary Lapham, who recognized the purity of Highlands’ water and climate and who pioneered the humane treatment of tuberculosis patients, a notion that resonated in subsequent treatments and therapies built upon compassion and insight.

My friend Larry Holt, who rumbles through the town in his big truck and keeps an eye on our neighborhoods and notes the health and well-being of the friends he encounters. Larry’s a pretty good gauge of what’s right and wrong with the town on any given day. Wave to him as you pass.

The men and women of Fibber’s Closet, who cheerfully display their treasures and surprises with unceasing enthusiasm, and who make life a bit easier for those of us not blessed with deep pockets. Plus, they return all of their proceeds to the community!

(See, this is why a wiser editor would have cut the previous paragraph –because I sure don’t want to neglect the efforts of the Cullasaja Women’s

Outreach, or Highlands Motoring Festival, or Highlands Emergency Council, or Highlands Food & Wine, or, or, or. Please, if I’ve omitted your organization or effort, let me make it up to you in a future issue!)

Highlands Fire & Rescue Chief Jimmy Lowe and Highlands Fireman Lenny Metrick, who managed to make their way all the way down into Whiteside Cove in the wake of the catastrophic Blizzard of ’93 to check on my family and our neighbors the Spurlocks. Miraculous!

A quartet of local women who taught my son Alex lessons that I wouldn’t have thought to impart: “Miss Pat” Hedden at Highlands Child Development Center, who taught four-year-old Alex that a rainy, gloomy day is actually full of fun possibilities (a vital lesson if you’re growing up in a temperate rainforest, and even now, if you end up in the perpetually damp Pacific Northwest); Highlands Preschool’s Wilma Gordon, who taught him the proper response when someone calls you a “hot dog head;” Sarah Harkins, who taught Alex a reverence for the natural bounty that’s every Highlander’s birthright; and Elizabeth Woods, who opened up the mysterious kingdom of higher mathematics, a realm which he happily inhabits every day of his working life.

The Highlands Town Crew, who ensure that we can keep the lights on and the faucets flowing in whatever disastrous event we’re weathering through. That’s a level of service that can only be built upon a love of neighbor.

OK, I’ve gone as far as the Laws of 21st Century Publishing allow. If I’ve left you out, please know that I’ve automatically realized it, the moment this issue arrived on the street. Please be kind when you encounter me around town, allow me to make it up to you, and, always, tell me your part in the story of this marvelous town, a place like no other on the globe. by Luke Osteen / photo by Susan Renfro

Remembering the Blizzard of ‘93

The Blizzard of 1993 still brings chills to those who lived through it.

In my essay on Highlands at 150, I mentioned the Blizzard of 1993, a Storm of the Century that phosphoresces in the psyche of its survivors with the vividness of December 7 or September 11.

If you didn’t live here during this catastrophe, let me give you a snapshot. It’ll explain why I and every other survivor still gets a little twitchy when our phone tells us that in two days, we’ll be getting a dusting of snow starting at 7:00 A.M.

We’re instantly transported back to Friday, March 12, 1983, when WHLC and the Asheville and Greenville TV stations were talking about an impending snowstorm that was forming in the Gulf and threatening to bring four to six inches of snow to the region.

I was a reporter for The Highlander and Crossroads Chronicle and since a mid-March snowstorm was a bit peculiar (though I’ve seen a May dusting, and the late Doris Picklesimer told me she’d witnessed a June storm), I checked in with Highlands Chamber of Commerce’s Sam Bass to learn what it could mean for the Plateau.

Sam recommended that my family should stock up on bread and milk at Bryson’s in case there was trouble getting around the next morning.

Business-wise, Sam said that the storm would be pretty good

for the few inns and B&Bs and shops that were operating at that funny time of year. Sam said there’d probably be people coming up for the skiing at Sapphire and they’d almost certainly be spending some money on the Plateau.

Sure enough, snow began falling on Saturday morning down in Whiteside Cove, where my family was living.

When you’re living with a six-year-old, every snowstorm is a cause for celebration, and Alex and I plunged into the requisite Fun Times – snowman rolling, snowball battles, igloo construction.

But by 11:00 A.M. I began to notice that there was something wrong with this storm – there was nothing delicate about these snowflakes, they were heavy and they fell to the earth with a definite whisper.

And there was also a steadily-building wind and temperatures were plummeting into the lower 20s, with windchill down to minus-10.

By 1:00 P.M. all of that wet snow and all of that wind had snapped white pines and saplings across the Plateau, downing power- and phone-lines and transporting everyone back to 11,000 BCE and the last Ice Age.

According to the Highlands Biological Foundation’s Dr. Richard Bruce, the Plateau received an average of 28 inches of snow,

with drifts up to 38 inches. Wind speeds of 104 miles per hour were recorded, the equivalent of a Category-3 hurricane, and there were reports of thunder and lightning, as the storm raged.

According to my contemporaneous notes, there were reports of “snow tornadoes” in Cashiers and Glenville, but there was no corroboration on these sightings.

Roads were impassable, even with four-wheel drive vehicles and the vaunted Humvees, and Gov. Jim Hunt sent out the National Guard to help our beleaguered fire and rescue services.

I suppose if we were to look for something good that came out of that disaster, we need to look no further than the arrival of Samuel Wheeler, the son of Patti and the late David Wheeler.

Demonstrating what would turn out to be a lifelong flair for the dramatic, Samuel chose to be born while the storm was still raging, and while the newly constructed HighlandsCashiers Hospital was in the process of opening.

If you’re new to the area or somehow missed all the excitement, perhaps this will help you understand why there’s a subtle frisson in the air whenever the Weather Service mentions even the possibility of snow moving into the area in three days.

by Luke Osteen

The operating principle for Bryson Grading and Paving – service to its neighbors – was built into its founding 45 years ago. Discover for yourself the depth of that commitment – call (828) 526-9348 or visit brysongrading.com.

Mike and Ryan Bryson

Bryson Grading and Paving has been transforming challenging mountainous building sites into the perfect canvas for their clients’ dream homes or businesses for over 45 years. These folks do it all from groundup site prep, excavation, grading, septic systems, concrete slabs, poured walls, foundations, retaining walls, paving, bridges, utilities, and more.

Bryson Grading’s roots run deep in this community. Owner Ryan Bryson is a fifth-generation Highlander, having taken over the family business from his dad, Mike in 2012. Mike is still hands-on, but Ryan capably steers the ship and expanded the business to include concrete and paving.

Bryson Grading is the successful thriving business it is today because of their commitment to a job well done, and their deep connection to and love for this community. In addition, Ryan says their greatest assets are their over 65 highly-skilled employees who are considered family. Several have

been with the company for over 20 years. Their roots are not only generational, but it’s safe to say that their blood might run a shade of motor oil brown as both Mike and Ryan grew up running equipment and tractors at the knees of Neville – Mike’s dad and Ryan’s grandad – when they were knee high to a grasshopper. Neville, who owned Bryson’s Gulf, started this company in 1979 with one piece of equipment when he agreed to help a friend prep the site for Highlands Plaza. From that small seed, Bryson Grading and Paving grew.

As you can imagine, Bryson Grading can move mountains for you, but as they recently proved, they can also build mountains as they sprang into action in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and rebuilt the destroyed portion of Highway 106. Recognizing that this road closure was a huge inconvenience for their community, Ryan says “we set an impossible goal for our employees on this job, and they exceeded it.”

From start to finish they completed this mammoth and treacherous job in 38 days, opening the road up on Christmas Eve – a Christmas present to the town.

With crews working nearly around the clock they first had to build a road to the bottom of the washout and position their equipment to start the work. From there they built their way back out.

Ryan stresses that the project was a community effort, and they were supported throughout by their subcontractors and suppliers, many of whom operated extended hours to allow them access to the materials needed.

Interesting historical note – this wasn’t the first time this family has helped their community when in a bind. In 1926 when the town was clearing for Lake Sequoyah the original contractor hired for that job was fired, and Ryan’s maternal greatgrandfather, Roy Phillips, stepped in and completed the work.

by Mary Jane McCall

Musings From A KitchenCountry

Alberta Zachary –raconteur, philosopher, and chronicler of the Valley’s comings and goings –imbued her tales with wisdom and a hard-earned humor.

Alberta Zachary

“The lean days for people in the mountains were early spring days—too early and too cold to start a garden, all the canned goods gone from the cellar…”

That’s Alberta Jenkins Zachary (1912-2005) of Cashiers, reminiscing in the pages of The Crossroads Chronicle in her “Country Kitchen” column for more than 20 years. A selection— charming, humble and humorous – was collected in “Musings From Alberta’s Country Kitchen” and published in 1999 with proceeds from book sales split between the Cashiers Historical Society and the Highlands-Cashiers Hospital, because that’s the sort of woman Mrs. Zachary was.

Miss Alberta Jenkins came to High Hampton Inn in 1936 for a seasonal job after growing up in Brevard with modern conveniences at home.

I recently spoke with Cashiers history

maven Ann McKee Austin, to learn what Alberta was like in person, and not just on the page.

“Alberta was the best,” Ms. Austin told me, “she was like the matriarch of Cashiers, so bright, so smart, so witty.”

During that first summer at High Hampton, Alberta was cleaning a guest cottage when Howard Zachary, the resort’s caddy master, poked his head in and told Alberta, “If you marry me, you’ll never have to do this again!”

“Little did I know” Alberta told Ann, laughing, “that he didn’t have indoor plumbing!” The sweethearts did tie the knot and moved in with Howard’s mother.

The Zachary home was atmospheric and had a cold, clear spring flowing on the property — but didn’t have electricity or running water until World War II. Alberta lived there more than 60 years, rearing four children while

Howard ran the Esso gas station (where Spinx is now).

While reading “Musings” you find that Alberta has become your neighbor, your friend, too. She has helpful hints on gardening; making do with less; and cooking, of course; all seasoned with some philosophy, whether homespun or quoted from Shakespeare, Robert Louis Stevenson or the Bible.

Ann Austin told me that Alberta would be so happy that people were still reading her book. I got it from the Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library and you can too.

by Stuart Ferguson

Stuart Ferguson is a local historian, armchair traveler, and irrepressible raconteur. He reviews books for The Highland Hiker, which maintains an extensive collection of local literature.

Photo by Susan Renfro

Building Resilience: Collaborative Recovery Efforts in the Aftermath of Hurricane Helene

HC Health Foundation’s post-Helene relief strategy offers help and hope both on the Plateau and beyond.

Hurricane Helene has caused widespread devastation across Western North Carolina, severely impacting individuals and communities. Our communities are working tirelessly together to support one another as the region recovers.

As part of these recovery efforts, the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation has taken proactive measures to collaborate with and provide grants to various organizations throughout the community. Together, they are working tirelessly to ensure that essential recovery resources and support reach those who have been most impacted by the storm.

During the storm, the International Friendship Center’s Highlands Food Pantry faced a critical challenge with a three-day power outage, putting their perishable food supplies at risk. To prevent losses, the pantry quickly improvised by using a temporary diesel generator and transferring frozen goods to smaller freezers. However, this incident underscored the urgent need for a reliable, permanent backup power solution.

With a grant from the Health Foundation, the pantry will be able to acquire and install a propane-fueled standby generator. This will ensure an uninterrupted power supply to their refrigeration units, safeguarding their food inventory and enabling continuous operations during future emergencies.

“The Health Foundation continues to

demonstrate why they are such an important community partner in Highlands and Cashiers, said International Friendship Center Executive Director TJ Smith. “Their response to Helene – to make available funds to meet needs that were a direct result of this disaster – was a much-needed resource to so many nonprofits working directly with those impacted on the Plateau.”

In the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the staff at Vecinos went above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of the community. With over 800 home visits conducted within the first 10 days following the storm’s landfall, Vecinos staff worked diligently to assess the needs of residents across Western North Carolina. What emerged from these assessments were pressing needs for food, essentials, home repairs, income assistance, and more. Vecinos has played a vital role in providing a range of services to support their

patients, from replacing essential work tools to helping with rental payments and clothing replacement.

To sustain their outreach efforts, Vecinos will utilize the Health Foundation’s grant to continue providing critical services to those in need. This ongoing support encompasses home repairs, income assistance, utility bill payments, and other vital needs arising from Hurricane Helene’s aftermath.

“The Health Foundation’s support of Vecinos enables a comprehensive and adaptable approach to disaster relief and recovery,’ said Marianne Martinez, CEO of Vecinos.

“Recognizing that Hurricane Helene exacerbated existing inequities, the Health Foundation is helping us address immediate needs while integrating disaster planning as a core component of our long-term infrastructure. We are deeply grateful for their partnership and commitment to building a more resilient community.”

Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation believes that working together highlights the resilience and unity of the community during times of crisis and recovery. A comprehensive approach to supporting the Highlands Food Pantry, Vecinos, and other organizations is making a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by Hurricane Helene. These efforts ensure that recovery is sustained and communities are rebuilt stronger than before.

by Josh Bryson, Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation photo courtesy of Vecinos

Financial Focus® When is a Good Time For Roth Conversion?

In life, you often get second chances — and the same is true with investing. To illustrate: You might not have been able to contribute to a Roth IRA during your working years due to your income level, but you may get that opportunity as you near retirement, or even when you are retired — through a Roth conversion.

Why is a Roth IRA desirable for some people? Here are the key benefits:

• Tax-free withdrawals — You put in after-tax dollars to a Roth IRA, so you can withdraw your contributions at any time, free of taxes and penalties. And if you’ve had your account for at least five years and you’re at least 59½, you can also withdraw your earnings free of taxes.

• No RMDs — With a traditional IRA, you’ll have to start taking withdrawals — called required minimum distributions, or RMDs — when you turn 73, or 75 if you were born in 1960 or later.

But there’s no RMD requirement with a Roth IRA —you can essentially leave the money intact as long as you like.

• Tax-free legacy for your heirs — When your heirs inherit your Roth IRA, they can withdraw the contributions without paying taxes or penalties, and if the account has been open at least five years, they can also withdraw earnings tax free.

But even if you were aware of these advantages, you might not have been able to invest in a Roth IRA for much of your life. For one thing, you might have earned too much money — a Roth IRA, unlike a traditional IRA, has income limits. Also, a Roth IRA has only been around since 1998, so, in the previous years, you were limited to a traditional IRA.

As you approach retirement, though, you might start thinking of just how much you’d like to benefit from a Roth IRA. And you can do so by converting your

traditional IRA to a Roth. While this sounds simple, there’s a major caveat: taxes. You’ll be taxed on the amount in pre-tax dollars you contributed to a traditional IRA and then converted to a Roth IRA. (If you have both pre- and after-tax dollars in your traditional IRA, the taxable amount is based on the percentage of pre-tax dollars.)

If you have large amounts in a traditional IRA, the tax bill on conversion can be significant. The key to potentially lowering this tax bill is timing. Generally speaking, the lower your income in a given year, the more favorable it is for you to convert to a Roth IRA. So, for example, if you have already retired, but have not started collecting RMDs, your income may be down.

Timing also comes into play with the financial markets. When the market is going through a decline, and the value of your traditional IRA drops, you could convert the same number of shares of

the underlying investments and receive a lower tax bill or convert more shares of these investments for what would have been the same tax bill.

Finally, you could lower your tax bill in any given year by stretching out your Roth IRA conversions over several years, rather than doing it all at once.

You’ll want to consult with your tax advisor before embarking on this conversion — but if it’s appropriate for your situation, you could find that owning a Roth IRA can benefit you and your family for years to come.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC

Todd Holder

Borrowing Days

Spring is stirring. So is my heart, which currently belongs to late author and cartoonist, James Thurber. It’s through Thurber’s animal fables that we see who we truly are. In my allegory, the cast consists of gods, not critters, though deities can be just as fuzzy and horn-headed as a swan or bull. And, as usual, the beasties are messing with us.

March, named after Mars, the war god, was born in March. Or maybe March was born in Mars. Or March was born on or in Mars, the planet.

So far, a god, a month, and a planet are named after Mars. And we haven’t even gotten to his candy company. It’s hard to sort out.

All I know is: Don’t mess with a war god. Let them have whatever they want. And it’s wise to keep them distracted. Tabloids rumored Mars swiped Aphrodite’s press-agent while Botticelli diverted her, painting Birth of Venus,

which could be Birth of Aphrodite, depending on your preference, Roman or Greek. See how complicated this godthing is? It’s just one long, confounding run-on sentence. And yes, Aphrodite really wanted her own month, which explains a press-agent.

For reasons only a god would divine, March swapped three days with April. March could then extend his month three days for excessive wind-thrashing, Mirror Lake-freezing, black-ice bum-busting, and, for a laugh, a dozen second-graders’ tongues frozen to Main Street flagpoles.

Maybe it’s because love and Spring’s hormone-ity were destined to muddle brains, but manly March asked adorable April if he might switch those 3 days. March was so darn cute, she cooed, “Shuuur.”

During the swap-days, lambs, birds, and flowers, in the crux of birthing, hatching, and blooming, suffered

every weather-pelter (hail, sleet, snow, freezing rain) the heavens could hurl. If the intent were to keep living things cold, miserable, humble, and largely dead, March succeeded.

Ever since the exchange in Northern Europe, those accursed three days are blamed for everything from loss of flocks to pretty much the end of life as we know it. In one version of this fable, March wanted to watch an old cow kick the bucket. Another, he harassed lambs just for the hell of it. You’d think Pluto and Hades would notice Mars’s rascalness, but they were busy gawking at Venus/Aphrodite and Botticelli. You just never know about gods – and artists.

In the end, Borrowing Day, which is what this is all about, boiled down to fighting, torturing, freezing, and getting things named after yourself. Yep, in this narcissist world, gods call that a darn good day.

by Donna Rhodes / art by Norma Jean Zahner

Anne Buresh’s latest project is a home that embodies both elegance and warmth, seamlessly blending with its natural surroundings.

When Anne Buresh’s design firm was commissioned to create an exclusive mountain getaway, she immediately envisioned a space that would harmonize with its breathtaking surroundings while offering effortless luxury and comfort.

At the heart of this elevated escape is the great room, where an existing heirloom rug and a striking piece of artwork anchor the design. The saddle leather ottoman invites relaxation, while custom swivel chairs allow for effortless movement between conversations and the warmth of the fire. A palette of soft, soulful tones – dusty blue mohair pillows, angora accents, and rich neutrals from the Fortuny Pillows – balances the rugged mountain aesthetic with a sense of refined comfort.

Designed for effortless entertaining, the space is centered around connection.

The back of the house opens directly onto ski-in, ski-out access, making it a seamless transition from the slopes to fireside Aperol spritzes and cozy gatherings. Heated floors and designated areas for storing boots and gear ensure that guests can fully immerse themselves in the après-ski experience without a second thought.

Beyond function, every element of this home was chosen with intention, from the Hermès throw that adds an understated touch of luxury to the swivel chairs that allow you to prop your feet up by the fireplace after a day of hosting. The goal was to create a home where people could truly live—without hesitation, without constraint, but with a deep sense of comfort and joy.

A secondary sitting area, complete with a bar and rich leather swivel chairs, offers another intimate space for unwind-

ing. Whether it’s quiet moments with family or lively evenings with friends, every corner of this retreat is designed to be welcoming and lived in. This home doesn’t just reflect the homeowners—it tells their story, creating a space that feels deeply personal, timelessly elegant, and undeniably them.

Anne Buresh is renowned for crafting homes that are as inviting as they are beautiful, blending luxury with livability; this mountain retreat is no exception. With a deep commitment to infusing personality into every space, Anne worked closely with the homeowners to create an environment that reflects their lifestyle, passions, and love for gathering with friends and family.

by Jessica McLaughlin

I Grew Up Here

A welcoming streetlight has been a constant throughout the decades.

Trudy Rogers Alexander shared this picture of Pearl and Dusty’s (her Mom and Dad) home.

Frieda McCall Bennett, 1965

As I look out my back door, I see the streetlight along the Franklin Road in Highlands.

It’s just a streetlight, but so much more. It was the light beside my home just 200 feet as the crow flies from where I have lived for 52 years. I never got very far from the beginning of my life as I move toward the end of my life.

As a child and teen, I wandered far and wide with this light marking home.

I guess my favorite memories are of the silent snowfalls that would draw us children outside at any time of the night. It would be strange for children to roam so freely today, but it was a type of heaven back then.

Some of the houses were magnets for us. One such house was the Rogers house, which drew all of us wanderers at night to the continual card games and warmth of friendship for anyone who chose to

drop by. Pearl and Dusty (their house was where the covered bridge is today) never seemed to mind the number of visitors or how long someone stayed.

It’s just a streetlight, but so much more. It was the light beside my home … where I have lived for 52 years.

Romances started here and led to several weddings. Later in the evening, I walked home alone with the snow still coming down and not a soul around. The silence was something I have never experienced since. The streetlight gave me light to get to my gate along the highway and the porch light was always left on. My first kiss was at that gate as the knight in shining armor walked me home one evening.

No key was needed as I entered the house. No one was waiting up because your parents knew you were safe. The silence of the house was different from the silence of the snow.

It was a different time in a place that has always been home, but that streetlight brings such memories as I look out and remember.

by Frieda McCall Bennett

Frieda McCall Bennett shared this sweet Highlands memory with us. Frieda, whose high school photo appears to the left, taught High School Social Studies at Highlands School for many years.

Throughout this busy year and beyond, we’re going to be spotlighting the men and women who’ve grown up on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. Their lives have something to teach us, lessons in danger of being lost in the frantic pace of 21st century bustle and bother.

Photo by Susan Renfro

Empowering Through Education

The Literacy & Learning Center’s lessons provide a lifetime of illumination and contentment for its students of all ages.

Volunteer, Tricia Smith and After-school student, Brantle.

The Literacy & Learning Center is a vital community resource dedicated to enriching lives through education. Believing literacy is the foundation of a thriving community, TL&LC offers a wide range of free programs for all ages.

TL&LC provides a nurturing Pre-K program and engaging after-school activities for children, fostering a love of learning from an early age. Adults benefit from programs like English as a Second Language classes, GED preparation, and individualized tutoring.

The global impact of illiteracy is significant, with millions of adults worldwide lacking essential reading and writing skills. This disproportionately affects women and is linked to poverty. TL&LC addresses this by prioritizing early childhood education, a crucial step in breaking the

cycle of illiteracy.

Vickie Betts, a former TL&LC board member, emphasizes the importance of the center’s work: “When I was a parent working full-time and had three children, if I needed help, it was always comforting to know someone was there to do that. I feel like that’s what The Literacy Center does. When the kids get behind, as we know, it’s rarely easy to catch up. So, if we can catch things early and get them on the right track, I think that’s great.”

By providing free and accessible educational programs, TL&LC empowers individuals, strengthens families, and builds a brighter future for all.

To learn about TL&LC’s

programs, contact Caroline Cox at (828) 526-0863 or CCox@ TheLiteracyandLearningCenter.org.

by Anna Norton, The Literacy & Learning Center

TL&LC provides a nurturing Pre-K program and engaging after-school activities for children…

Scan to learn more.

Like A Rock

Steadfast Louise takes her cue from Bob Seger and Mr. Bird. She’s patiently waiting for love and a permanent home. For more information, visit chhumanesociety.org or call (828) 743-5752.

Ihave a gym in my humble little basement. It’s not much, really, just a couple of inexpensive machines and some weights. One thing that gets me motivated to exercise is music. Music is my second-most favorite love, and I sure hope you can guess the first. So when I do dust off the cobwebs of my basement gym equipment, one of the first things I do is crank up my favorite workout songs.

I have a lot of rescued shelter pets at home. Of all the rescued animals at my house, from blind dogs to three-legged dogs to one-eyed cats, seniors, and the list is much longer… there is a bird. I am not a bird expert, but he is very pretty and he is very mean.

Mr. Bird has a quite large and comfy cage in the basement next to my workout equipment. So whenever I do get around to hopping on the treadmill or lifting some weights, I turn on the music, get settled next to Mr. Bird, and get my

pulse moving. The last song of my workout playlist is always the same. It’s Bob Seger’s “Like a Rock”. What happens next is something that Pulitzer Prize-winning author Dave Barry was famous for saying: “I promise I am not making this up.”

When “Like a Rock” starts playing, Mr. Bird starts bobbing his head and swaying his colorful feathered body from side to side, especially when the crescendo with these lyrics play:

“I stood arrow straight, unencumbered by the weight of all these hustlers and their schemes. I stood proud, I stood tall. High above it all. I still believed in my dreams.”

Louise is one of our longest-term residents. I don’t know if hustlers and schemes were in her past life, but she gets along great with people. Louise is strong and loyal, like a rock. She stands proud, and she stands tall, high above it all. Louise still believes in her dreams.

We believe in her dreams, too, and we’re not going to give up until we can make them come true. Come meet this sweet girl and give her the forever home she has been patiently waiting for.

Established in 1987, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit animal welfare organization located at 200 Gable Drive in Sapphire, oneand-a-half miles east of the Cashiers Ingles in between Cedar Creek Club and Lonesome Valley on Highway 64. Our no-kill shelter is open Tuesday-Saturday 10:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M. For more information, visit us online at chhumanesociety.org or call (828) 743-5752. 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

Prayers ForDaniel

Daniel’s snowscape exuberance came at a terrible price, but compassionate care means that he’ll be back with the herd by summer. If you’d like to help with his treatment, send him your prayers. You can also contact Sue Blair at carpediem@gmail.com.

Daniel

Old Man Winter has certainly been up to some antics with all of us living on the mountain top! I cannot recall actual temperatures like we have had – 2 to 5 degrees and “feels like” temperatures in double digit negatives!

Keeping the herd safe is our number one priority, always. In this weather it’s critical. Snow, ice, snow on top of ice, melting in sunny places and freezing again in the night.

It seemed endless and it wasn’t – however, it was hard.

Cleats with metal strapping on our boots kept us upright and able to test the conditions we faced before moving the horses from the safety of the stables to the arena.

Even on the worst days we were able to move them slowly, in hand, one by one allowing them time and space to “selfcare,” running and playing.

Horses and people alike came through the storm unscathed.

However, on February 2, Daniel, our 13-year-old Thoroughbred, who was gifted to CDF and arrived last spring with My Kaleb, wasn’t so lucky. The snow and ice made for a lot of mud in new places.

Without anyone witnessing the incident, a very playful herd of six was running, kicking and enjoying. As I approached the stables to feed, Daniel was unable to walk. Struggling with each step. He wasn’t putting any weight on his left front leg or foot, barely letting his toe touch the ground, hopping with each step that got him closer to his stall.

Once in, I iced him and gave him a full body PEMF treatment. Wrapped his leg and gave him pain medicine. Fed him supper and bedded him down for the night.

In the morning, I x-rayed up and down the leg and hoof. I followed with a thermography camera session looking

for heat and abnormalities in the blood flow. I sent them all to Dr. Jessica Scruggs for her input. He fractured a bone in his left front leg, close to where he had a cryotherapy procedure while on the track. Dr. Jessica x-rayed for conformation.

Using the leg brace I had made for Battersea Tracy on the left and support wrapping – a “standing wrap” – on the right, it’s making a difference in his stability.

Dr. Scruggs is assuring that within four months of stall rest and all the treatments, the bone will heal.

I ask each of you reading this to stop for a moment and offer up a prayer for Daniel’s healing. If you’d like to help with his care, please let me know. He is not a horse accustomed to confinement so this will be a long four months. by Sue Blair, Carpe Diem Farms

Keeping People Warm

Mountaintop Rotary is laboring to ensure that everyone is warm – now and into the future.

Even though Winter is shuffling off into another hemisphere this month, it still can still stir-up a chilly wind before Spring sends it scurrying south.

Mountaintop Rotary stands ready with its Keep-people-warm projects. They see to it that coats (and firewood) are available until no longer needed.

Rotary hopes you remember throughout the warmer seasons that Chilly Weather will be whistling back in November. If you run across coats, hats, and mittens for kids or grown-ups in your summer travels, snap them up, if you have the charitable means, and bring them back to the mountains for next season’s drive.

Be inspired by 2024’s Coat Drive. It was a supremely warm success. The following numbers reveal what Mountaintop Rotary and our area community accom-

plished. In December, 2000+ coats were donated and distributed.

“Our winter projects have become an integral part of this generous community. Rotarians work along-side local churches and businesses all working together to keep our community warm,”

They see to it that coats (and firewood) are available until no longer needed.

Michael Vavrek, Chair of Service Projects, Mountaintop.

Most projects given by Mountaintop Rotary are fund-raisers and grants, but there are two physical projects that members throw their muscle and heart into every year.

One is their Coat Drive.

The other is Cut Firewood. 2024’s hurricane provided a plethora of fallen trees. Many a home was heated thanks to Mother Nature and the Rotarians.

As this article is being written, they are out there chopping, cutting, splitting and stacking right now. (Wood’n you? Please join them at a later trees-topping session.) The cut firewood goes to the Emergency Council that makes sure it warms many a family.

If you want to know more about Mountaintop Rotary and their community support, send an email to MTRhighlands@gmail.com.

by Donna Rhodes

Scan

Shaping Futures

Building upon a foundation of trust and compassion, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina bridges hearts and lives.

In communities across Western North Carolina, young people face challenges that can shape their futures in profound ways.

But one simple, powerful act can make all the difference – a caring adult stepping up as a mentor. Through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina, local youth are finding guidance, support, and encouragement from Bigs who show up, listen, and inspire.

Just having someone to talk to, share experiences with, and look up to can transform the way a child sees their future.

Take Ethan, for example. Before meeting his Big Brother, he struggled with self-doubt and lacked a strong support system. But through their time together – whether hiking, grabbing ice cream, or simply talking – Ethan gained confidence. His grades improved, he

made new friends, and his outlook on the future brightened. His Big didn’t change the world – he simply showed up. And that was enough to change Ethan’s world.

Just having someone to talk to, share experiences with, and look up to can transform the way a child sees their future.

Bigs and Littles spend quality one-onone time together, engaging in activities tailored to the child’s interests and needs. This personal connection builds trust, confidence, and a lasting relationship that supports the child’s emotional and social growth in a way that typical after-school programs can’t match. No matter the program, BBBS provides training, resources, and ongoing support to ensure every match is successful.

For 23 years, BBBSWNC has proudly served children in Cashiers, Highlands, and the surrounding areas. In this time, we’ve seen firsthand how a little bit of time, care, and guidance can set a child on a path to a brighter future. BBBSWNC founded and implemented several community initiatives, including the Volunteer & Community Resources Expo in 2022, and actively participates with organizations to effectively serve the needs of all children in our area.

A young person in our community is waiting for someone just like you. Whether you live here year-round or split your time between homes, your presence can be life-changing. Be the reason a child believes in their potential—become a mentor today.

by Danielle Hernandez, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cashiers and Highlands

Outreach Grant Program

The Church of the Good Shepherd in Cashiers is seeking local nonprofits to receive grants courtesy of its Bazaar Barn.

Local charities and nonprofits are invited to submit applications for grants to The Church of the Good Shepherd’s Outreach Grant Program, starting April 1 through May 1. They’ll find the application at goodshepherdofcashiers.com.

To be considered for a grant, your completed application must be received in the church office by May 1,” says Vice-Chair of the Outreach Committee Rose Mary Achey. “You can mail it to P.O. Box 32, Cashiers, NC 28717 or email a PDF of the application to goodshepadmin@frontier.com. If there are questions, just call (828) 743-2359.”

According to Achey, “Our Outreach Program offers financial support as well as many hours of service and support by parishioners to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on education, environmental protection, food insecurities, healthcare and wellness, shelter and housing, and other human services primarily serv-

ing Cashiers-Highlands Plateau.”

Last year, the church was able to grant $343,113 to 42 organizations across the Plateau.

Fueling this generosity is the Bazaar Barn and a church with a long history of caring.

The Church of the Good Shepherd’s fundraising Bazaar began in 1986 under the wise supervision of Marie Cranston. The church’s rector, the Rev. Steve Hines, endorsed the notion and donated some things from his parent’s home to combine with a selection of donated ladies’ apparel.

The event was a rousing success. It raised $2,320 and planning began immediately for the 2nd Annual Auction and Bazaar.

By 2003 the Good Shepherd’s Annual Auction and Bazaar had grown so much that the church grounds could no longer contain it. Under the leadership of Chair Debbie Lassiter, the Bazaar moved

(with some trepidation) from the church grounds to the Cashiers Community Center. Although increased volunteer effort was needed to stage the Bazaar, proceeds from the 2003 Auction and Bazaar reached $42,299.

But the emergence of Covid-19 in 2020 threw everyone’s plans into chaos.

Determined Barn Chair Sharon Stricker put her head together with Father Rob Wood and soon-to-be co-chair Laura Lankford, and with masks on, volunteers began opening the Barn Warehouse a few weekends a month, then every weekend a month as conditions allowed.

In 2024, after several years of continued growth, The Church of the Good Shepherd purchased a 10,000 square foot building on highway 107 North (across from Blue Ridge School). The new Bazaar Barn is open every Friday and Saturday from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. by Luke Osteen

Taking the Lead

The 2025 Class of Leadership Highlands will be exploring the pitfalls and possibilities facing the town and its future.

The Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC has announced the participants of the 2025 Leadership Highlands program, a signature initiative designed to cultivate and empower leaders in the Highlands community.

Leadership Highlands offers emerging and established community leaders a unique opportunity to deepen their civic

knowledge, refine leadership skills, and expand their professional networks.

Over the course of the eight-month program, running from March through October, participants engage in an intensive curriculum that includes a retreat, monthly day-long classes, hands-on workshops, collaborative projects, and a culminating graduation ceremony.

“We are thrilled to welcome this

exceptional group of individuals to the 2025 Leadership Highlands class,” said Kaye McHan, Executive Director of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Highlands, NC. “Their diverse perspectives and experiences will not only enrich the program but also contribute significantly to the vitality of our community.”

Members of Leadership Highlands

2025 include: Devon Allio, Bonnie Bell, Amanda Wasco Brown, Jane Ford Clark, Ann Cooper, April Getz, Jen LaRue, Ariana Ramsey, Nikki Sloop, Josh Smith, Tiho Trichkov and Jose Vives.

Throughout the program, participants will explore key topics critical to the Highlands area, including its history and cultural resources, economic development, government and public safety, health and human services, education, arts, and outdoor recreation. The curriculum emphasizes principle-based

decision-making, team building, and leadership development, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to make meaningful contributions to the community.

Since its inception, Leadership Highlands has celebrated numerous graduates who have gone on to play vital roles in Highlands’ civic and professional spheres. In 2024, the program graduated 14 participants, a testament to its ongoing impact. Selection for the program is competitive and is based on civic involvement, leadership potential,

diversity of thought, and commitment to both the program and the Highlands community. Participants are chosen by a committee comprising Chamber staff, Board of Directors members, and Leadership Highlands alumni.

For more information on the Leadership Highlands program or the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC visit highlandschamber.org or call the Welcome Center at (828) 526-2112. by Johanna Fein, Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC

Leadership Highlands Class of 2024

Leadership Highlands Class of 2022

Leadership Highlands Class of 2023

Celebrating Our Leaders

A new crop of Leadership Cashiers graduates is prepared to shepherd the community through the challenges ahead. If you’d like to help, you can learn about the program and its goals by visiting leadershipcashiers.org.

We’d like to celebrate the graduation of 2024’s Leadership Cashiers participants.

These men and women have demonstrated dedication to studying civic issues, fostering meaningful connections, and stepping up as dynamic community leaders who inspire us all. Thank you for being committed to making a positive difference in the Cashiers area.

You’ll find these men and women all over the community – Dona Amprova, Hope Corbin, Tony Daddona, Nicole Ernst, Amelia Golcheski, Kylee Hamby, Thomas Hessling, Siobhan Hunter, Brooks Kittrell, Karla Magana, Josh Payne, Alison Schultz, Alan Webster, and Richard Yow. Please don’t hesitate to speak with them about your vision of Cashiers and the ways that we can meet future challenges, together.

Monthly sessions were typically held on one Tuesday a month, May through December, with a two-day opening retreat.

In the class, personal leadership skills were developed through academic and teambuilding exercises led by Angela

Owen of Truventure Enterprises, who also served as Program Director. She is also executive director and course instructor of Vision Transylvania, a similar program in Brevard.

In 2017 a task force of the Cashiers Area Chamber and Vision Cashiers developed Leadership Cashiers. The curriculum is based on a model used by many cities/areas across the country. By taking an intensive look into the issues affecting the area, they prepare and motivate participants to offer quality community leadership.

The Vision of Leadership Cashiers is to build a cadre of area leaders with the necessary tools and connectivity for making a meaningful positive impact on our community, as well as insight on our future challenges – fulfilling its mission to inform, connect, and engage individuals by studying civic issues, building strong working relationships, and motivating participants to provide enlightened, dynamic community leadership.

As we look ahead, we encourage

aspiring leaders to take the next step and join Leadership Cashiers 2025. Applications are now open, with a deadline of March 31. This program offers a unique opportunity to build connections, deepen your understanding of local issues, and grow as a leader. Visit leadershipcashiers.org to learn more and apply!

The program is open to Cashiers Area residents and stakeholders (both permanent and seasonal). Participant criteria include a strong Cashiers orientation, community stakeholder, demonstrated elements of leadership, and community civic involvement and commitment in the Cashiers area.

The Leadership Cashiers Program is also supported by numerous generous sponsors in the business, non-profit, and educational sectors. You can learn about the program and its goals by visiting leadershipcashiers.org. by Susan Gregory Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce

Welcoming Karmen

Stylist Karmen Jenkins brings her skills and aesthetic sensibilities to the talented team at Head Innovations.

Karmen Jenkins

Head Innovations Staff, Left to Right: Tracy Head, Pat Chastain, Joe Morrow, Vandy McCall, Karmen Jenkins, Jane Earp, and Whitney Talley

It’s often been said that if you do what you love you’ll never work a day in your life and Tracy Head of Head Innovations at 2250 Dillard Road is one of the lucky ones who realized this early in life.

Lo and behold, her good energy and excitement about transforming her clients’ hair has attracted a like-minded group of stylists to join her at one of Highland’s busiest hair salons.

This warm welcoming salon is always abuzz with excitement as this close-knit team of professionals offers their clients a full menu of beauty services including cuts and styles, color, color correction, blowouts, keratin, perms, waxing, and brow tinting.

Their continued commitment to keeping up with the latest styles and available products and treatments assures their clients that they’ll always be in good hands. Grass doesn’t grow under these folks’ feet.

This successful business has been keeping Highlands beautiful for 16 years and Tracy and her experienced teammates combine for an astonishing 138 years of experience. That’s a lot of knowledge under one roof but don’t for a minute think they’re not cutting edge. Tracy always welcomes new talent whose energy and passion match her own.

Enter her newest stylist, Karmen Jenkins, a ninth-generation Highlander, who knew early on that she wanted always to live and work in her beloved hometown, and more importantly, that she wanted to do hair. Her youthful energy, passion, infectious personality, and knowledge make her a welcome addition to the Head Innovations team and in Karmen’s own words, “At 19, I’m excited to help you look and feel your best. Book with me today!”

Tracy says “We are excited to have a fresh new face to represent local talent, Karmen Jenkins. Bringing the latest color and cutting techniques into the salon, she will

be a great addition to our team!”

Karmen joins an exceptional team that includes full-time stylists Tracy, Jane Earp, Joe Morrow, Whitney Talley, and Vandy McCall, and part-time stylists Pat Chastain and Gale Knorr.

Head Innovations offers a full line of professional products including Wow, Kenra, Aluram, and many more so you can keep your hair looking its best between visits. They also have a great selection of affordable fashion jewelry including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, and of course, they offer a wide selection of hair accessories.

For ladies and gentlemen who want to look your best and feel your best don’t miss an opportunity to book an appointment today with Head Innovations. Located at 2250 Dillard Road in Highlands. Call them at (828) 787-2343 for an appointment.

by Mary Jane McCall

From The White House to Your House

Paige Scheer’s passion for order and efficiency has been her driving principle. For more information, visit paigescheer.com, or reach Paige at (214) 564-6259.

Paige Scheer

If there’s one thing Paige Scheer knows how to do, it’s juggle.

From orchestrating large-scale corporate events to organizing moves and managing luxury estates, Paige has made a name for herself as someone who can juggle a variety of endeavors with ease. And she has developed a brand of tailored personal service that’s distinctly her own.

“For me, it’s all about providing the highest level of service that alleviates stress for my clients. I want them to have the confidence that everything down to the smallest detail will be taken care of seamlessly,” she says.

Paige’s career impressively began in The White House where she landed the role of Trip Coordinator for President George H.W. Bush, responsible for planning his travel and engagements down to the minute. It was here she learned the art of keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes – a skill she relies on today.

From there, she started her own events company and worked with organizations like Bank of America and The Staubach Company, planning corporate incentive trips and meetings that spanned the

It was a lifelong dream of mine to live near the mountains…

globe. Guided by her expert execution, her clients have traveled to iconic events – think the Masters, the Super Bowl, and the Final Four.

After relocating to Highlands last year, Paige is focused on expanding The Scheer Organization to support the area’s property owners through estate management and move management. She recently organized a family’s across-the-country move into their dream vacation home. With this, she was respon-

sible for sourcing, stocking, unpacking, installing, and organizing everything needed for a brand-new residence, down to toothbrushes and toothpaste.

She also oversaw a 28-acre resort, taking care of every aspect, from ensuring accommodations were spotless for guests to maintenance.

“I’m thrilled to be a part of this community. It was a lifelong dream of mine to live near the mountains, somewhere with a bit more scenery than Dallas, Texas,” she says with a chuckle. “I’m looking forward to making new friends and clients and being of assistance to the wonderful people here.”

Find her on instagram @ The_Scheer_Organization. by Tiffany Monier photo by Susan Renfro Scan to learn more.

SANDY BARROW JOHN BARROW CLAY CANTLER JESSICA HOHEISEL

BETH TOWNSEND LIZ HARRIS

COLEEN GOTTLOEB MAGGIE ELMER

Entwined in Cashiers’ History.

The Historic Minnie Cole House, one of the oldest and most iconic buildings in Cashiers, is currently home to Highlands-Cashiers Sotheby’s International Realty, the top brokerage firm in the area. Beth Townsend, Co-Founder of Cashiers Sotheby’s International Realty and The McKee Group at Cashiers Sotheby’s International Realty, owns the building and the house now bridges the area’s rich past with its vibrant present.

Built circa 1875, the Minnie Cole House celebrates 150 years. A designated Cashiers Historical Society Heritage Property, it was honored in 2022 with the Village Heritage Award for its careful restoration and adaptive reuse. Its charm and preservation reflect the “old village feel” that makes Cashiers so special.

Beth’s connection to Cashiers runs deep. A resident for nearly 45 years and a real estate professional for over 30, she has witnessed the plateau’s evolution while remaining rooted in its natural beauty and community spirit. Consistently a top-ranked Broker with a degree in Landscape Architecture, Beth offers unique expertise in estates, private communities, and large-acreage properties. In addition to her involvement in Wade Hampton Golf Club, Beth’s commitment to conservation includes helping protect over 600 acres near town, the creation of Snowbird Community, and preservation of her own circa 1892 farm.

Visit Beth Townsend at the Historic Minnie Cole House, 619 Highway 107 South, the cornerstone of deep knowledge and unmatched experience. Or learn more by visiting online at Cashiers.com.

MINNIE COLE HOUSE

Cedar Ridge Estates Offered

3+ BR / 3.5 BA / 14.99 ACRES This fi ne estate property is perched on a shelf of Big Sheepcliff mountain, in the close to town and highly desirable Cedar Ridge Estates neighborhood. End of the road privacy and a large double lot offer a wonderful setting for exceptional and extensive year ‘round gardens. A very wide covered front porch serves as access to the front door, mudroom door and connector to the two car garage. A stunning surprise greets when stepping into the great room; the dramatic rock face behind the house which provides home to peregrine falcons creates a knock-out focal point for the great room’s wall of windows. There is excellent flow between the great room with a tall stack stone gas log fi replace, the large kitchen and the Carolina

for $3,995,000

Room with stone wood burning fi replace and grilling area. Primary suite has a large bath, two spacious closets and cathedral ceiling. On the opposite side of the home are two charming ensuite bedrooms, both with lovely views to the outside. Finishing off the main level is an offi ce-den near the entry, bar alcove, powder room and outstanding laundry/pantry/offi ce combo. Two carpeted rooms upstairs can be fi nished off as additional sleeping quarters, or kept as bonus space, and there is a wonderful guest suite opportunity with stubbed out plumbing and electricity above the garage. This home is bright, current and extremely well maintained. MLS TBD

Toll

House Village Offered for $865,000

3 BR / 2.5BA / 1.28 ACRES This charming “tree house” cottage is a quick minute to the center of Cashiers. The easy access is just off Highway 64 west. Upon entering the home from the wrap around porch, the wood walls, floors and ceilings evoke a warm rustic flair found in updated mountain homes. The great room has soaring cathedral ceiling, fi replace, access to the small, screened porch and an open stairway to the upper bedrooms with shared bath. Primary bedroom on the main is privately tucked away from the

Avon Road

common areas, and nearby is the compact but fully loaded kitchen. A lower level room with 1/2 bath and concrete slab flooring is accessed from the outside, and is suitable for studio, offi ce or overflow guest space. Wintertime bonus is the outstanding close-up views of a dramatic rock faced mountain! There are only a few cottages in the Toll House Village, a small enclave built around the historic Toll House, circa 1908, and offering a pond and grassy lawn for the private use of this neighborhood. MLS 106324

Offered for $1,595,000

37.07 ACRES This 37 acre tract of land is well located off the south end of Cedar Creek Road and shares a gated gravel driveway ("Avon Road") with a large conservation easement and two estate properties. It also adjoins private homes in Cedar Ridge Estates. Graced with magnifi cent old deciduous trees, dramatic rock cliff s and a pristine stream, this land has three electric cabinets installed and a well, which when drilled yielded 30 GPM. A newly cut trail leads from the gravel drive up the nose ridge to the prime building site, then crosses the four springheads and connects to another part of the driveway. With a bit of clearing, this unrestricted property will have a rifle view toward Cow Rock and Laurel Knob Mtns, and an interior view of its own rock cliff s in the distance. MLS 105794

14.64 ACRES This extraordinary property offers a unique opportunity to own nearly 15 acres of prime Cashiers real estate. The house itself sits on a level 5-acre lot, providing ample space for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking privacy. The residence boasts three bedrooms and three bathrooms, perfectly suited for comfortable living. The one-level layout ensures easy accessibility and convenience for all residents. The property has an inviting pavilion and barbecue area, perfect for entertaining friends and family while enjoying the breathtaking

11.26 ACRES Enjoy spectacular, panoramic views of our majestic Whiteside Mountain, Blackrock, Chimneytop and Rock Mountain, and long range valley views all from the ridge of this multi-parcel property. Totaling over 11 acres, this property is a unique opportunity for a large family estate or a mountain development. The property off ers unmatched mountain views of

for $2,800,000

views of Chimneytop and Rock Mountain. The property also features a personalized bar space off the back patio, ideal for sipping cocktails as you take in your surroundings. Gardeners will appreciate the terraced garden space, offering endless possibilities for cultivating your own personal oasis. A circular driveway provides plenty of parking for guests, while the recently encapsulated structure ensures peace of mind for years to come. MLS 105777

Offered for $1,500,000

all varieties and ample opportunities for use with limited restrictions. Imagine driving to your mountain oasis and dream home with end of the road privacy and stunning views. Enjoy everything Highlands and Cashiers has to off er from the tranquil setting off Whiteside Cove. MLS 106019

4118 Kitchen and Bar 4118kitchen-bar.com P 95

A&A Property Cleanouts P 132, 144

A-List Antiques P 159

Acorns acornshighlandsnc.com P 180

ACP Home Interiors acphomeinteriors.com P 102

Allan Dearth and Sons Generators adsemergencypower.com P 29

Allen Tate -

Dan Doughty allentate.com P 178

Allen Tate/

Pat Allen Realty Group patallenrealtygroup.com P 9

Annawear annawearnc.com P 35

Anne Buresh Interior Design annburesh.com P 135

Around Back at Rocky’s Place aroundbackatrockysplace.com P 69

The Baked Bunny P 86

Barbara Jamison Paintings barbarajamisonpaintings.com P 5

The Bascom thebascom.org P 76

Bazaar Barn P 32

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices meadowsmountainrealty.com P 146, 160, 165

Betsy Paul Properties betsypaulproperties.com P 179

Bijou Jewelry bijoujeweler.com P 121

Black Rock Design Build blackrockdb.com P 144, 161

Block Party P 138

Blue Ridge Bedding & Furniture blueridgebedding.com P 10

Blue Ridge Falls RV Resort bueridgefallsrvresortcom P 133

Blue Ridge Music P 117

Bombshell Hair Boutique P 124

Bounds Cave’s Rug Gallery boundscaverugs.com P 24

Brookings brookingsonline.com P 53

Bryson’s Grading & Paving brysongrading.com P 130

Buck’s Coffee Cafe P 80, 81

Bungalow Boutique bungalow828.com P 159

C Orrico corrico.com P 156

Calders Coffee Cafe calderscoffeecafe.com P 89

Calhoun Landscaping P 132

Caliber Fine Properties caliberfineproperties.com P 122-123

Casa Amigos P 97

Cashiers Chamber of Commerce cashiersareachamber.com P 156

Cashiers Sotheby’s International Realty - The McKee Group P 170-174

The Cashiers Store thecashierstore.com P 39

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus P 68

Charles Johnson

Fine Art Photography charlesjohnsonfineart.com P 69

Chestnut Cove P 17

Christie’s International Real Estate highlandscashierscire.com P 110, 111, 145

Christine’s Home Decor christineshomedecor.com P 144

Clark & Co Hardscape Supply clarkhardscapes.com P 38

Classic Lighting & Design, Inc. classiclightinganddesign.com P 157

The Kitchen thekitchenofhighlands.com P 95

Lakeside Restaurant lakeside restaurant.info P 94

Las Margaritas P 86

Laura Moser Art lauramoserart.com P 5

Lehotsky & Sons lehotskyandsons.com P 118, 144

Lenz Gifts & Luxury Linens P 25

Leslie Jeffery lesliejeffery.art P 68

Living Stone Design + Build livingstonedesignbuild.com P 46

The Lofts on Main theloftsonmaininhighlands.com P 4

The Look Boutique P 19

Los Vaqueros P 99

Lupoli Construction lupoliconstruction.com P 20

Main Street Gifts P 152

Main Street Nursery P 55

McCulley’s P 3

Mirror Lake Antiques mirrorlakeantiques.com P 30

Morales Painting P 67

Mountain Construction Engineering mountain-ce.com P 15

Mountain Gate Systems P 132

Mountain Home Consignments P 152

Mountain Lakes Physicians Group P 133

Mountain Life Properties mountainlifere.com P 101

Mountain Theatre Company mountaintheatre.com P 75

Mountainworks Custom Home Design, Ltd. mtnworks.com P 51

Nancy’s Fancys P 117

Nearly New nearlynewnc.com P 34

Old Edwards Inn & Spa oldedwardsinn.com P 144, 180

On the Verandah ontheverandah.com P 90

Park on Main theparkonmain.com P 38

Pat Calderone calderonegallery.com P 69

Peak Experience peakexpshop.com P 58

Pridemore Properties pridemoreproperties.com

Rebecka’s

Riverstone Development Group riverstonedevelopmentgroup.com P 54

Roman’s Roofing romansroofingnc.com P 145, 153

Rusticks rusticks.com P 11

Sapphire Valley Real Estate sapphirevalleyrealestate.com P 44

The Scheer Organization paidscheer.com P 18

Slabtown Pizza slabtownpizza.com P 87

Spraggins Home Inspections spragginshi.com P 19

The Summer House by Reeves summerhousehighlands.com P 41

Tampa Bay Trust Company tampabaytrustcompany.com P 24 Tarah’s Beauty