May 2024: The Laurel Magazine

L aURe L

The Heart of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau

Cover Artist, Evan Jones

Publisher’s Note

The promise of this month kept us going in those chill, gloomy days in January, and we hope you’ll join us in squeezing every last measure of delight out of its sunny, rain-dappled days and sweet, snuggleunder-the-quilt evenings.

In previous years, May marked the beginning of the Busy Season on the Plateau, but over the last decade this manic time has been slowly spreading across the calendar.

Nevertheless, it’s still a good time to remind you to lace up your hiking boots and dig out your dancing shoes, because the Plateau’s once more Alive!

With appreciation, Janet and Marjorie

email info@thelaurelmagazine.com mail Post Office Box 565 Highlands, North Carolina 28741

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: Mary Adair Trumbly, Sue Blair, David Stroud, William McReynolds, Sue Aery, Zach Claxton, Ashby Underwood, and Mary Abranyi. Contributing Photographers: Susan Renfro, Greg Clarkson, Charles Johnson, Peter Ray, Terry Barnes, Ryan Karcher, and Colleen Kerrigan.

Copyright © 2024 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

TO DO Pages 14-65

Merry Swallowtail

A special welcome to the bugs of Spring, especially our state butterfly.

May has its namesake insect, the Mayfly, sleek of body with a long tail, gossamer wings and a short adult lifespan. The ubiquitous spring Mayfly, intriguing and structurally interesting, is not…pretty. June’s namesake insect, the June Bug, is outright ugly but feeds the bluebirds just as swarming Mayflies are fodder for fish and fowl. The “Mayfly Lure” is deadly trout bait for fly fishermen.

May also brings us our State Butterfly, the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail. This floating flower (Papilio glaucus) is a native American, appearing each spring and decorating forest and field through the summer and fall. Ranging along our Eastern Seaboard from Alabama to Canada, it is the Official State Butterfly of Alabama, Georgia, South and North Carolina,

Delaware and, Google will tell you, the State Insect of Virginia.

The Tiger Swallowtail morphs through all the stages of butterfly life. It hatches from an egg into a brown and white caterpillar, later pupates, forms a chrysalis, hibernates during the cold months and emerges as a new creature, winged grace, with warm weather. The four “tiger stripes” on its forewings prompt its exalted name. Can this be the origin of the mythical, magical, Tinker Bell fairy?

The tiger in the photograph is the male of the species. The female is dimorphic and can appear either as black and yellow like the male but with sapphire blue spots at the base of the tail, or she is totally black. How magical is that?

The Tiger Swallowtail is just one part of the celebrated merriment of May. May brings joy in renewal as the butterfly emerges from the cocoon. An old English ballad told of “the merry, merry month of May.” Ed Haley redid the song in 1880 with those words in the opening lines. Later, Stephen Foster waxed lyrically about “whiling the hours away” with skies bright and hearts light “in the merry, merry month of May.” Life will not be this merry again until we get to the merriment of December.

Welcome May. This month emergent beauty and contagious renewal bring us forth like spring butterflies from winter’s cocoons.

Merry Swallowtail May.

by William McReynolds

Highlands Outdoor Concerts

This month, the Highlands Chamber of Commerce is launching its 2024 season of free weekend concert fun. (Dancing is encouraged.)

This month (and running through October) Highlands’ seasonal soundtrack fills the air in downtown Highlands every Friday and Saturday night. Shows on both nights are free and take place from 6:00 to 8:30 P.M.

Friday Night Live showcases traditional mountain music and exceptional local talent on Main Street’s Town Square. The Friday night concerts are part of the Blue Ridge Music Trails

of North Carolina, an initiative of the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area Partnership and the N.C. Arts Council that works to sustain the rich music traditions of the region.

This month, the Friday Night Live season schedule is as follows:

May 17 – Silly Ridge

May 24 – McClain Family Band

May 31 – Byrds & Crows

Saturdays on Pine features a variety of

popular, regional bands and musicians at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park.

Saturdays on Pine season schedule is as follows:

May 18 – Continental Divide

May 25 – Southside Station

The Outdoor Concert Series is made possible by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

“Highlands thrives on community gatherings, live music, and the beauty

of nature,” says Kaye McHan, the organization’s executive director. “Grab your lawn chair or blanket, pack a picnic basket, and join us!”

There will not be a Chamber presented concert on June 29, July 27, August 17 and August 24 due to other events being held at Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park.

For more information about the Outdoor Concert Series or other events visit highlandschamber.org or call (828) 526-2112.

by Mary Jane McCall

Groovin’ on the Green

The 2024 Groovin’ on the Green Season launches with a pair of performances –Darren Nicholson Band on May 24, and Kevin Daniel & The Bottom Line.

Now that we’re deep into what’s shaping up to be the Plateau’s busiest Busy Season, we’re all invited to enjoy the happy sounds of Groovin’ on the Green – a bangin’ summer-long jam that has visitors and locals swinging all season long to performances by some of the area’s most entertaining bands.

“We here at The Village Green love being able to offer free and fun family programming, that’s accessible to everyone in our community, and that can be enjoyed without having to drive down the mountain,” says Ashlie Mitchell, the Village Green’s executive director.

The season begins with a smoking performance by Darren Nicholson Band, starting 6:00 P.M. Friday, May 24.

Grammy nominee and winner of 13 International Bluegrass Music Association awards, Darren Nicholson has taken his own brand of mountain music around the world. A regular for years on the Grand Ole Opry out of Nashville Tennessee,

and a founding member of acclaimed bluegrass group Balsam Range, Darren now spends his time recording, writing new songs, and performing.

Next up, it’s Kevin Daniel & The Bottom Line on Friday, May 31. The songwriter and multi-instrumentalist and his friends bring southern rock, gospel, and blues to the Plateau.

In the winter of 2013, during a dinner party in Brooklyn, Kevin received a phone call from his sister that would change everything. His mother and stepfather, adventure-seekers and amateur pilots, had been flying back from their mountain house in western North Carolina when their plane had crashed, killing both of them. Daniel’s life was turned upside down, his family torn apart and the world forever changed. During his return to North Carolina to help with family business, and while reliving his parent’s lives through photos, essays, and family stories, Kevin wrote over a dozen songs, all fueled by the grief of losing his parents as well as the celebration of the large lives they were

known for. From those songs six were chosen to record, including one written specifically for Kevin’s parent’s memorial service. Southern sounds of banjo and countryloving three-part harmonies were backed by rock riffs and pop lyrics, which spoke true to life and the celebration of living. Kevin Daniel & The Bottom Line will bring that spirit of love and life to their Groovin’ performance.

To ensure that The Village Green can maintain the ability to provide free concerts for the community, the purchase of a 10x10 tent rental supports this cause. Tents are provided, set up by the Village Green, and will be ready for use at your time of arrival!

Upon arrival, please check-in with the Community Event Coordinator at The Village Green table to be sure you get to your correct tent.

Please bring your own chairs and tables.

You can find more information at villagegreencashiersnc. com/concerts.

by Luke Osteen

The Village Nature Series

The Village Nature Series springs back to glorious life with presentations exploring the precarious future of North Carolina hemlocks and the adaptations that our native opossums have made to remain our irrepressible, meddlesome neighbors.

First up, it’s “Awesome Opossums,” the first program by the Youth Village Nature Series

Presenter Gina Patton of Balsam Mountain Trust will lead the program along with the trust’s ambassador opossum. Most people know that opossums are creatures of the night who might climb into your garbage can or eat the dog food left on the porch. But few people know of the incredible adaptations this marsupial species has. It’s a presentation loaded with surprises and at least a few laughs.

It’ll be staged from 4:00 to 5:00 P.M. on Tuesday, May 14 at The Village Green Commons 160 Frank Allen Road in Cashiers.

Next is “Hope for the Hemlocks,” led by Olivia Hall and Thom Green of the Hemlock Restoration Initiative.

Set for May 28, this program explores the ways that North Carolina’s hemlock trees need your help.

“We have two species of hemlocks in North Carolina, the eastern and the Carolina, and the invasive hemlock woolly adelgid threatens both,” says Olivia Hall. “Though hemlocks are declining, there is hope to bring them back to their previous glory. The mission of Hemlock Restoration Initiative is to work with a variety of partners and existing programs to restore hemlocks to long-term health throughout North Carolina and ensure that eastern and

Carolina hemlocks can resist hemlock woolly adelgid and survive to maturity on North Carolina’s public and private lands. Join Olivia and Thom to learn about hemlock ecology, woolly adelgid biology, what is being done to help, and management strategies to take care of hemlocks on your own land.”

The presentation will be staged from 5:30 to 6:30 P.M. inside Lewis Hall at 160 Frank Allen Road in Cashiers.

“Both of these events are completely free, open to the public, held rain or shine, and no registration is necessary,” says Ward. “Thank you to Cedar Creek Club for sponsoring this amazing series for the community!”

by Luke Osteen

Woolly Adelgid on Hemlock Branch

A mother opossum carries babies on back

The Bands at The Bear

Bear Shadow casts its musical, magical spell over the Plateau May 11-12.

The stage is set for a celebration of the mountains – of music vibrating, of folks dancing and friends cheering, of laughter and food and hat-topped heads bouncing and sandal-clad toes tapping.

Ahh, yes, it is the Bear Shadow Music Festival marking its fourth incarnation at Winfield Farms in Scaly Mountain May 11 and 12.

It’s here amid the ridges, in the wide fields, with room to roam, close to the sound and the stage, the good times roll, and the stars come together and the music soars from bona fide stars.

Headliners J.J. Grey & Mofro ascend the stage on May 11 to strut their stuff, guaranteed to ignite the crowd with their raw rural blues and tough swampy Southern rock.

On the next day, May 12, it’s the ageless music of Black Pumas that will be heard echoing through the mountain range – the blend of soul, symphonic pop, jazz-funk, and psychedelia that garnered

them seven Grammy nominees.

And where else but here are the supporting acts as compelling and talented as the headliners? First up On Saturday, May 11, are the Grammy-nominated North Mississippi Allstars, known for their mix of Delta blues and bluegrass; followed by North Carolina’s alt-country band The American Aquarium, and finally Futurebirds entertain with their laid-back country rock,

On Sunday, May 12, 17-year-old Nashville prodigy Grace Bowers kicks things off, and the freewheeling indie band White Denim keeps things going with their mix of psychedelic/garage rock. The final opening act of the day is the swaggering 3-piece, Grammy nominated rock band, The Record Company.

Only here at Bear Shadow do Southern gentility and hospitality and sense of community permeate the festival grounds. Adding to the festive vibe is top-notch food, artisan vendors and retailers selling local wares, things to wear, and mountain gear. With food

offerings as elevated as the venue, this food meets music bash has a wealth of scrumptious ways to fill your plate and sate your appetite.

From top end Sushi served up by Raleigh’s Umami Restaurant, to wood-fired pizzas from Freewheelin Pizzeria, succulent barbecue by Ruritan’s Smoking Good BBQ, and Hendersonville’s Post 25 Kitchen’s famous burgers, and healthy hearty bites from Brevard’s Local Harvester food truck, the culinary delights are as fetching as the headliners. Beyond the food, there are beverages galore –alcoholic and not – and all included in your ticket price.

Best of all – the money spent on your ticket goes toward a good cause - the Sky Valley-Scaly Mountain Fire & Rescue. Visit bearshadownc.com for more information.

by Marlene Osteen

J.J. Grey & Mofro

Black Pumas

Fresh from the Farmer

The twin Farmers’ Markets in Cashiers and Highlands are serving up a full menu of palette and palate pleasers, as well as a complete compliment of goods, greens, sweets, and savories.

When you have only two coins left in the world, buy a loaf of bread with one, and a lily with the other. – Chinese Proverb

Where are those coins better spent than at Locally Grown on the Green and Highlands’ Market?

Buy bread for your belly, flowers for your soul. Find them among so many other delights like local, fresh-grown vegetables, greens, meats, jams, jellies, handcrafted treasures, and all manner of tasty products yielded by local farmers’ from their well-tended, rich mountain soil.

The Highlands Farmers Market is held most Saturdays through October, 8:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. in KelseyHutchinson Founders Park on Pine Street. The market provides a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, baked goods, plants, hemp oil plus hemp

products, soy candles, herbs, sweets and other locally-sourced products. Add to that green onions, grape tomatoes, fresh lettuce, spinach and tender greens, sugar snap peas, wild ramps, and Chip Wilson’s Bread and Butter pickles. Envision your sideboard spilling over with farm-fresh deliciousness.

Locally Grown on The Green, known for its locally grown produce, welcomes new vendors this year offering an array of pastries, confections, farm-fresh veggies and herbs, and more homegrown goodness. The Village Green’s farmers market is a haven for food enthusiasts and those seeking locally grown ingredients. Locally Grown (at The Village Green) continues every Wednesday, though October 30th. Exceptions: July 3 (July 4th events) and August 7 (Cashiers Annual Antique Show).

Producer-only vendors must be the

creator of every product they sell. Vendors must farm within a 100-mile radius of Cashiers.

Feel free to chat with your growers-ofchoice. If you know your farmer, you know your food. As author Margaret Atwood once said, “In the Spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt.” And mountain dirt smells so good, especially on the farmer that filled your plate.

Don Deal, manager of Highlands Farmer’s Market adds that if you are interested in participating as a vendor yourself, please contact him at (828) 342-8239. Please contact shelby@ cashiersgreen.com if you are interested in joining the Green Market as a vendor. Both Markets are free and so is parking. See you there!!

by Donna Rhodes

May Fest

May Fest, set for Saturday, May 11, on Frank Allen Road in Cashiers, is an anniversary celebration for the entire Plateau, courtesy of the Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau and a full slate of supporters.

Ten years of service is a milestone for any organization, and for as active a bunch as the Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau, a fun celebration for the entire community seems in order.

You’re invited to May Fest, a fun party for the entire family set for noon to 3:00 P.M. Saturday, May 11, at the club’s headquarters on Frank Allen Road in Cashiers.

Admission is free and it’ll be a day of fun and educational activities by BGCP and its community partners.

“This year marks our 10th anniversary, and the club has grown by leaps and bounds. We started with about 100 kids, and now are over 450 and growing,” says Merrel Hattink,

who serves on the BGC Board. “This year we will open an additional Club in Highlands and are beginning to build a Teen Club building at the Cashiers site.”

Participants that have committed so far (with more added nearly every day) are: Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library; Bee Kind/ Highlands Counseling Center’s Youth Mental Health Initiative; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina; Cashiers School of the Arts; Cashiers Glenville Volunteer Fire Department; Glenville-Cashiers Rescue Squad; Highlands Biological Foundation (which will be bringing one of its animals to observe); Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society; JAM; Cashiers/Glenville Recreation Center; MAMA Medical

Helicopter; Highlands Hospital (with popcorn and snowcones: Rescue Squad vehicle tours; Unidxswnc – a local nonprofit working to address social, economic, educational, and cultural inequities in Jackson and Graham Counties for the Hispanic and Latino community; Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust; Cashiers Historical Society; Jackson County Health Department; Vision Cashiers “Walk Cashiers Pathways”; Tiny Trail Farms (offering a frame of worker bees in a vented display case; and representatives of Gorges State Park. by Luke Osteen

Our Annual Plant Sale

They’ve been waiting, spades in hand, throughout the long winter and well into spring – local gardeners are focused on the Mountain Garden Club’s Annual Plant Sale, May 25, at the Highlands Ball Field.

Who doesn’t long to have the most beautiful landscaping and flowers in your neighborhood and who hasn’t struggled to find just the right plants to grow in our unique environment?

“That’s not a problem with plants purchased at our plant sale,” says Mountain Garden Club’s Debby Hall.

Hall, who’s also a broker with Silver Creek Real Estate Group, says that she tells new property owners to consider the Mountain Garden Club’s Annual Plant Sale, set for Saturday, May 25, at the 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. The plants have all been lovingly cultivated in native soil and are plants native to our area, so they are ideally suited to our unique ecosystem. These acclimated plants will grow and thrive for years to come. The guesswork has been taken out of the equation of whether it will grow and thrive in our climate. There will be as many as 40 distinct types of plants, from those that attract pollinators such as

Bee Balm, Astilbe, and Clematis, to the always popular Hosta in its many varieties, Cinnamon Ferns, Creeping Jenny, Coneflower, Bleeding Heart, Forsythia, Iris, Daylily, and many other offerings, including Dahlia bulbs. If you’ve admired a plant in any local garden, you’ll most likely be able to purchase it here and have a chance to chat with the gardeners who have lovingly tended to those plants from seedling to sale.

This is the Mountain Garden Club’s largest fundraiser of the year and proceeds are used to fund scholarships for local students who are studying horticulture, environmental studies, and education, as well as for other community projects, conservation efforts, and community gardens. It is a chance to beautify your garden while giving to a worthy cause.

Be prepared to come early as the sale is extremely popular and long lines form quickly. Cash or check only, please.

by Luke Osteen

Learning Keeps You Young

The Center for Life Enrichment is spreading illumination into new venues across the Plateau. To register for programs and events, please visit clehighlands.com, call (828) 526-8811, or visit the office at 348 S. 5th Street in the Peggy Crosby Center in Highlands.

As the Plateau fully embraces its sunny spring season, the Highlands-Cashiers Center for Life Enrichment finds itself in preparation for what is sure to be the organization’s most remarkable season yet.

With over 100 programs across 10 major areas of interest (The Arts and Creative Workshops; Culinary and Wine; History; Homes, Gardens, and Nature; Law, Politics, and Current Affairs; Literature and Author Receptions; Film and Music; Religion, Science, Health, and Medicine; Sports; Technology), CLE offers a variety of programs sure to tickle everyone’s fancy.

To support local and foster a sense of community on the Plateau, many of CLE’s programs this season are in collaboration with local businesses and organizations. This season, CLE is thrilled to partner with The

Stubborn Bull and mixologist Carlton Chamblin to offer an exclusive global culinary experience with spirit pairings; Guy Davis to offer a private wine tasting at High Country Wine & Provisions; Stacie Platt, Rustic’s Interior Designer, to discuss and demonstrate current design trends and ways to incorporate them into your home; and an Intro to Fly Casting program led by Brookings Anglers, just to name a few.

Back by popular demand, Andrew Weissmann will return to Highlands this season, alongside Mary McCord, to provide an update on the Trump Trials and a look at a “Trump 2.0 Department of Justice.” This exciting and timely program will take place at the Martin Lipscomb Theatre (courtesy of the PAC and the Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival) and will include a meet-and-greet reception following the presentation.

Also returning this year is a CLE fan-favorite, the annual College Football Preview with Tony Barnhart, Loran Smith, and Don Munson. New this year, the program will take place at the Village Green in Cashiers, with a tailgate-style party and meet and greet to follow.

Registration for these and the rest of CLE’s diverse programs is now open to the public. Membership is not required to register; however, members receive reduced pricing when attending CLE programs (a $10 savings per event). Be sure to stop by the CLE headquarters at 348 S. 5th Street in the Peggy Crosby Center to pick up a 2024 Program Catalog today!

by Audra Bullard,

Center for Life Enrichment

Where Music Fills the Sky

Spring’s black-velvet-anddiamond night sky is the perfect backdrop for Highbeams, the May 30 featured artists for Orchard Sessions at The Farm at Old Edwards.

Highbeams

There are few places where you can stargaze at the night sky, seated amidst orchard trees, as the music pours forth between the boughs. Such are the Orchard Sessions at The Farm at Old Edwards, an openair concert hall and rural sanctuary where, over the years, a rich tapestry of musicians have been stitched together to adorn the stage and delight the audience.

On Thursday, May 30, accompanying the lively chorus of crickets chirping and friends chattering is the music of a trio of brothers and best friends, Highbeams. Highbeams members are Adam Pendlington on vocals, guitar, and bass. Stephen Quinn on vocals, bass and guitar and Ian Pendlington with backing vocals.

Their name comes from the feeling of driving down the road with the high beams on, feeling free and alive. It’s an apt description of the music that pours forth – a free wheelin, “feel-good folk

rock,” emotive, high-energy sound that with rich three-part harmonies. A sound so much bigger, with a depth and texture that implies more than a mere 3 voices. It’s a pure sound, not muddied or watered down, mixed and mastered with a steady hand and true ear. They sing of love and life and aspirations, with joy and enthusiasm, backed by clever vocals and a direct and vulnerable sincerity.

Formed in 2012, the trio has released two full-length albums and have covered the Southeast with performances, opening for Brothers Osborne, Vertical Horizon, Chase Bryant, and Col. Bruce Hampton. Their music has drawn comparisons to artists such as Poco, Mumford and Sons, The Avett Brothers, and Jackson Browne. Their albums have received acclaim for their thoughtful and relatable lyrics, praised by I Am Entertainment as “among the best released by a DIY Band this year.” Rust Magazine has also lauded their music for its crisp timing, gentle instrumentation,

and thematic depth. They have won the Undiscovered Artist Final at MadLife Stage & Studios and Songwriters open mic at Red Clay Music Foundry.

Known for their lively performances and close connection with their fans, they often invite the audience to sing along and join them on stage – creating an infectious chorus of voices swelling as they reverberate throughout the arena.

Concerts are held from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. and the public is welcome. There’s a $25 cover charge for Old Edwards Inn and Half-Mile Farm hotel guests and members; and a $40 cover charge for the public. Cash bar & complimentary light bites.

To book online, visit OldEdwardsHospitality.com/ OrchardSessions. by Marlene Osteen

Things that May Brings

The season brings mental wellness, exotic plants, and a dash of murder.

With May flowers come joyous times and lots and lots of culture at our area libraries. In a month that is more packed than ever with activities stimulating and educational, there’s no denying that there’s lots of energy about – from author presentations to plant displays and celebrations of National Mental Health Awareness Month.

Plus, Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library is kicking off their “Summer Celebration” to mark the 30th anniversary of its founding. The future looks bright, and our librarians look forward to seeing you there.

Here’s what our libraries are doing in May:

Both Hudson Library and Cashiers Community Library will shine a light on the work of North Carolina mystery writer Diane Kelly. Known for penning romance and mysteries featuring feisty heroines, quirky sidekicks and sexy leading men, Kelly is a former state assistant attorney general and tax advisor who spent much of her career fighting white collar criminals. She’ll be in Highlands on Friday, May 10, at 11:00 A.M. to discuss the “Appeal of Appalachia,” and in Cashiers on Friday, May 10 at 3:00 P.M. to talk about her newest book, Four Alarm Homicide.

Readers eager to engage with authors will surely want to meet Kevin Couhig on May 31 at 3:00 P.M. in Cashiers. A charismatic character of our times,

Couhig spent years pushing for growth and new infrastructure in his role as president of Louisiana’s West Feliciana Parish, while working in corporate America. After retirement, he put his energy into storytelling, and writing.

His first novel, A Man for Others – the compelling story of the life of Rob Coogan, a multi-talented Irishman, adept in guitar, songwriting and football.

May is National Mental Health Awareness Month and both libraries will participate in the Health Foundation and the Highlands Counseling Center’s Bee Kind Initiative, as well as highlighting kindness and mental health topics in programming for all ages.

The Cashiers Library is showing the

Cynthia Woodsong

Diane Kelly

movie Orchestrating Change in partnership with the National Association for Mental Illness on Thursday, May 9 at 3:00 P.M. There will also be a workshop at the library on gratitude journaling with Laura Plush on May 29 at 2:00 P.M..

Gardening enthusiasts will be pleased to learn that the Hudson Library is partnering with the Highlands Biological Station to showcase the extraordinary plant creations of Cynthia Woodsong. A floral designer since the age of 17, Woodsong creates paper flowers that are replicas of native plants found in North Carolina, including pitcher plants, trout lilies, and Venus flytraps. Her display will be on view from the second half of May through the end of June, to coincide with the programs she’s leading at the Botanical Station.

For information on Cashiers, call (828) 743-0215, or visit fontanalib.org/cashiers; and for Highlands, (828) 526-3031, fontanalib.org/highlands.

by Marlene Osteen

Celebrating Tradition

Highlands Historical Society’s 2024 calendar is jammed with events, family fun, irresistible personalities, and, of course, breathtaking dahlias.

As we begin another beautiful summer on the stunning Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, the Highlands Historical Society wants to kick off the 2024 season with an open house at our beautiful Historical Village. On May 25 there will be music, docent tours, food and history as we open our village for a busy season.

Come and tour our museum that features exhibits on mountain music, Joe Webb and much more. Let a docent guide you through the Prince House, built in 1887, the oldest remaining house in Highlands; and enjoy some food and live downhome music. The Historical Village is open from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Thursday, Friday and Saturday; from May 25 through November 1. There is

no charge to visit. Did you know you can take the Highlands Greenway trail system and wind through town visiting the Historical Village, The Bascom and other local treasures?

Two other dates you want to put on your calendars are October 12, when “Walk in the Park” will take place. Colorful people who made history in Highlands will be brought to life by actors. Imagine listening to Samuel Kelsey or Mary Lapham – they still have plenty to say in 2024! Check HHS website for specific times and cost info.

Another very special day is October 26, Heritage Day, when we honor and celebrate the families that are the backbone of Highlands.

This will be the third year that an entire

day is dedicated to the families that came here when life was very different. Just getting to the Highlands Plateau was a difficult journey, and settling here was not for the faint of heart. We have connected with over 70 families that trace their roots for more than 75 years in Highlands. It’s an honor to recognize these families and their commitment and contributions to make Highlands the wonderful place it is today. They have history and stories about Highlands that must be shared and preserved.

Then there is the 14th Annual Dazzling Dahlia Festival, which has several events and includes the entire town. This year we are celebrating “Flower Power” which will kick off with a patrons’ party on Tuesday, August 27,

at the beautiful campus of Highlands Smokehouse and High Country Wine & Provisions, the mountain home of Davis Family Wines. We are leaning into a 60’s theme with 60’s music and a bit of a Woodstock in Highlands theme.

On Thursday, September 5, we will celebrate this year’s Poster Contest winner at The Bascom with a poster party, as we kick off dahlia weekend. The poster winner will receive $500 and will be the featured poster this year.

Friday and Saturday, September 6 and 7, the Single Bloom Dahlia Show will grace The Bascom patio with its unmatched display of stunning dahlias. Last year we had over 400 dahlia blooms entered. Many ribbons were awarded but there was only one Best of Show for Amateur Growers, which went to Mary Dotson for her perfect Formal Decorative. Mary is a legend at the Single Bloom, having won

Best of Show before, and consistently winning many ribbons.

There was also a professional division which was won by Tim Wheatley with his Formal Decorative, MD’s Salamander, which he hybridized himself in Whittier North Carolina.

Everyone can enter dahlia blooms – there is even a children’s division. It’s not too late to grow your own dahlias for this season, and you too can be a winner.

On Saturday, September 7, Highlands will again be draped in incredible dahlia creations as talented designers, businesses, and nonprofits show us what “Flower Power” looks like to them. Last year, there were over 40 entries with ribbons awarded by judges and also by popular vote, through the People’s Choice.

One beauty won Best of Show, Church of the Incarnation took home the judges’-

award Best of Show, and a $500 check. So start planning your dahlia/native floral vignette now, there is no fee to enter!

The weekend finishes with the concert in he park, where the most generous Dahliabolicals will fund Steel Toe Stiletto, a fantastic and fun dance band. All festival winners will be recognized and the dancing will be memorable. All Dahlia Events are free to the public, except the Patrons’ Party on August 27.

Highlands Historical Society will be busy adding to the history of our special place, and we want you to join us for this journey. Specific information on all the events and more is available at highlandshistory.com.

by Kim Daugherty, Highlands Historical Society

Supporting The Green

Cashiers Valley Real Estate is hosting a Kentucky Derby Party at Lewis Hall at The Village Green in Cashiers – 5:00 to 9:00 P.M. Saturday, May 4. For tickets or more information, visit cashiersvalley.com or stop by 45 Chestnut Square in Cashiers.

You can bet that when the professionals at Cashiers Valley Real Estate decide to host a Kentucky Derby Fundraising Party, it’ll be anything but a dark horse.

“Saddle up for an unforgettable Kentucky Derby celebration benefiting The Village Green this May,” says Cashiers Valley’s Sarah Jennings, who’s drawing up plans for this celebration even as you’re reading this. “It’ll be a party loaded with Derby fashion, dinner, drinks, music, games and thrilling horse racing action. We will also be broadcasting the Kentucky Derby live during the evening and taking your bets. You could walk away with some fabulous prizes!

“Mark and Brandy Letson are our emcees, and they know how to keep a party lively! Our official clothier is Onward Reserve, and since you simply can’t have a Derby Party without a sea of stylish Kentucky Derby hats, The Highland Hatter will be on hand to ensure everyone is in style.

“Did we mention mint juleps? Our sponsor, Woodinville Whiskey Co. will be serving up some delicious derby cocktails. And for those who prefer beer and wine, Whiteside Brewing Company will set up a well-stocked serving station. And The Library Kitchen & Bar will be catering the event, so no one will go away less than fully satisfied. Tickets are $250 per person.

“We are so excited to kick off the season with an event supporting one of our local treasures. As an organization, Cashiers Valley Real Estate is committed to supporting local organizations. We pride ourselves in getting involved and being imbedded in this community.”

So what’s behind the fun, the finery and the general excitement?

The Derby Party is a major fundraiser for the Village Green, the vital emerald heart of the Cashiers community.

It’s a 13.2-acre park located at the crossroads of Highway 64 and Highway 107. Hosting thousands of visitors and over 80

events each year, The Village Green is not only the heart of Cashiers in its location, but also in its ability to draw family and friends together in community. It’s a special place where people and nature come together.

You can stroll the paths of the park around grassy lawns, along wetlands and through the forest glade. Enjoy a picnic lunch with friends. Learn about raptors, honeybees, native plants and bears. Celebrate the seasons and capture treasured moments with family. Discover art, culture and regional heritage. Host a party, wedding or reunion. Photograph colorful dahlias. Listen to a concert. Dance beneath the stars.

by Luke Osteen,

photo by Heritage Productions, WNC

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On Highlands Stage

If you’ve ever elbowed a stranger out of the way to catch a bride’s bouquet, seriously questioned the mental stability of the duo saying “I do” or been forced to wear the world’s ugliest bridesmaid dress, Highlands Cashiers Players’ production of “Always a Bridesmaid,” set for May 9-19, is definitely for you…and your dearly beloved!

Run, don’t walk, to get tickets to the Highlands Cashiers Players’ upcoming production of “Always A Bridesmaid” which will run Thursday, May 9, through Sunday, May 12, with evening performances at 7:30 P.M. and a Sunday matinee at 2:00 P.M, and again the next weekend, May 16 through May 19, at the Highlands PAC.

HC Players represent the best in community theater featuring local talent, and this year they have more newcomers than ever joining their ranks, two of whom are featured in this play.

This hilarious comedic romp by Jones Hope Wooten is directed by Ricky Siegel, who has directed five plays for the Community Players and acted in 11 productions. Anyone who has witnessed his previous works knows that comedic romps are right up his alley. Newcomer Cathy Myers, hailing from New Orleans, will be his assistant director.

This is a tale of four high school friends who vowed on the night of their senior prom that they would be in each other’s

weddings come what may, and here they are 30-some-odd years later keeping those nuptial promises.

Their story is told in flashbacks when Kari Ames, played by newcomer to the Highlands stage, Dannyale Williams, addresses the crowd at her wedding. A little more champagne and more stories of the other’s marriages unfold.

Kari’s Mother, Libby Ruth Ames, one of the steadfast four friends is played by Lorine Spencer. Libby Ruth is the glue that holds this group together. An eternal optimist, she’s the group’s success story, happily married all these years, and determined that her friends will also find their wedded bliss.

Monette Gentry is played by Diandra Mundy and if you saw her in the recent performance of “Squabbles” you’ll know that she has real stage presence and is perfect for the role of the self-absorbed, thrice-married spitfire of the group.

Jamie Haselhurst plays Charlie Collins, the earth mother aging hippie of the group, content with her single status up

till now, and seriously getting cold feet on the day of her wedding. Will her friends talk her into walking down the aisle or will there be a runaway bride?

Deedra Wingate, played by Julie Harris, is a headstrong high-powered Judge whose rock-solid marriage turns out to be anything but when she discovers her husband has wandering eyes and hands.

Sedalia Ellicott, the eccentric owner of the wedding venue where Charlie’s wedding is taking place is an outspoken force of nature who always has business on her mind, is played by April Getz, another newcomer to the Highlands stage.

This laugh-out-loud journey of four friends navigating the choppy waters of marriage proves that through all life’s ups and downs, true friendships can last a lifetime.

For ticket information visit highlandsperformingartscenter.com or call (828) 526-9047.

by Mary Jane McCall

L to R: Diandra Mundy, Julie Harris, Dannyale Williams, Lorine Spencer, Ricky Siegel, April Getz, and Cathy Meyers.

The Pipers Return

The Pop-Up Pipers will deliver their clarion calls throughout Highlands in a series of unexpected performances.

The stirring sounds of bagpipes will echo throughout downtown Highlands as residents and visitors are treated to a series of Pop-Up Bagpipe performances.

Organized by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce, the Pop-Up Pipers are scheduled from 4:30 to 5:00 P.M. on select Saturdays, May through October. Dates are May 4, June 1, July 13, August 3, September 7, and October 5.

Highlands Bagpipers, featuring the talented musicians Margaret Tooke and Glenn Morris, aim to evoke the rich heritage of the region. Their performances pay homage to the settlers and laborers from Scotland and Ireland who contributed to the area’s cultural tapestry. Additionally, they celebrate Highlands’ history as a vibrant cultural hub for artists and musicians.

“Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor to our picturesque mountain town, these performances promise to put a smile on your face and offer memorable experience for all,” says Kaye McHan, executive director of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

For more information go to visithighlandsnc.com or call (828) 526-2112.

by Luke Osteen / photo by Colleen Kerrigan

It’s High Time for High Style

Highlands’ traditions of unimpeachable style and effervescent culture find their full expression with the establishment of High Style, set for May 17-19.

“Prepare to be immersed in a world of artistry and charm as High Style, a Celebration of Art, Cuisine, Fashion & Music, makes its debut May 17 through 19,” says Kaye McHan, Executive Director of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC. “This exciting event is set to attract residents and visitors alike with a dynamic mixture of interactive art demonstrations, culinary experiences, fashion, music and more.

“After three successful years of Meander in May, we are thrilled to introduce High Style, an event that promises to be engaging and interactive for attendees. Retaining the essence of great music and art from our previous event, we’ve expanded to include educational sessions and presentations, enhancing the overall experience.”

The weekend’s schedule is as follows:

FRIDAY, MAY 17

5:00 – 6:00 P.M.

High Style Meet & Greet Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park Pine Ave.

Kick off the inaugural High Style event in style with our meet and greet cocktail reception. Join us for an evening of mingling, sipping, and savoring.

Cost: $45

SATURDAY, MAY 18

10:00 – 11:00 A.M.

High Style Fashion Show Town Square | 341 Main St.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this stylish affair in the heart of Highlands. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a trendsetter, or simply looking for entertainment, the Fashion Show

promises an unforgettable experience for all. We encourage guests to embrace their personal style and dress to impress.

Cost $25, with VIP seating.

11:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.

Jewelry Making Demonstration with Laurel Parham-Martinez

Bijou “Little Jewel” of Highlands 125 South 4th Street

11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.

Live Painting with Pauline Marr

Village Square | 210 North 5th Street

Music by Lisa Rankin

Mountain Life Properties | 134 Maple

Ceramics Demonstration by Frank Vickery

The Bascom | 323 Franklin Rd.

Fly Tying Demonstration

Brookings | 273 Spring St.

11:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.

Live Painting – Jeanie Edwards

Jeanie Edwards Fine Art | 223 S. 4th St.

11:30 A.M. – 1:30 P.M.

Metal Art Demonstration with William Rogers

Town Square | 341 Main St.

Music by Byrds & Crow

The Ugly Dog | 294 S. 4th St.

Noon – 2:00 P.M

Music by Southern Highlands

Highlands Smokehouse 595 Franklin Road

Jewelry Making Demonstration with Marci Sherwood

High Country Wine + Provisions 621 Franklin Road

1:00 – 3:00 P.M.

WNC Woodturners’ Club

The Bascom | 323 Franklin Rd.

Music by Zorki

Village Square | 210 North 5th Street

1:30 – 3:30 P.M.

Music by Kettle

Mountain Life Properties | 134 Maple St.

Music by Curtis Blackwell

Brookings | 273 Spring St.

Charcuterie Board Class by Chef Suzanne

Mountain Life Properties | 273 Spring St.

Cost: $75

2:00 – 4:00 P.M.

Music by Charles Wood Town Square | 341 Main Street

Music by ABC Combo High Dive | 476 Carolina Way

Music by Doug Ramsey

Highlands Wine Shoppe | 296 Oak St.

2:30 – 3:30 P.M.

Cocktail Class

Highlands Smokehouse 595 Franklin Rd.

Cost: $25

3:00 – 4:00 P.M.

Hat Styling Demonstration

Highlands Hatter | 221 N. 4th St.

SUNDAY, MAY 19

10:00 – 11:30 A.M.

Pancakes & Prosecco Breakfast

The Bascom | 323 Franklin Road

Sip on prosecco as you indulge in fluffy pancakes piled high with your favorite toppings and an array of delectable breakfast items. Cost: $45

For more information about High Style, call (828) 526-2112. Tickets for fee-based events are available at highlandschamber.org/high-style.

by Luke Osteen

Highlands’ Memorial Day Service, set for 10:00 A.M. Monday, May 27, at Veterans Plaza honors those who paid the ultimate price for our Freedoms.

The Battle Buddies Plateau Warriors Project provides support for the men and women who are still paying the price.

Join the Highlands American Legion Post 370 for their annual Memorial Day Ceremony at the Veterans Plaza across from the Highlands Police Department on May 27 at 10:00 AM. This moving ceremony is a fitting tribute honoring fallen veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

The Highlands American Legion Post 370 exemplifies a dedication to supporting veterans through its proactive innovative programs that provide not just assistance but a sense of community and belonging crucial for veteran’s well-being.

The Plateau Warriors Program although independent of the local American Legion Post, was organized by members Ed McCloskey, Bill Huff, and first responder Davis Picklesimer and staffed by many of the members of the local American Legion. The “Battle Buddies” group went through a training program conducted by an expert from the veteran suicide prevention group in Asheville.

Tom Neal, CEO of the Highlands Cashiers Hospital has played an important role in funding, encouraging, and providing important resources for the Battle Buddies Plateau Warriors

team. The program receives referrals from the hospital’s social worker and has recently met with an army medic who experienced numerous traumatic events during his tour in Vietnam. It was an honor for the local veterans to meet with this gentleman to hear his story and to share mutual military experiences.

Highlands Post 370 sponsors a program called Visit-A-Vet. This committee started by Chip Snyder and Jim Grantham has a different mission from Plateau Warriors in that it is an ongoing visitation program at the Chestnut Hill and Eckerd Living Center facilities. These meetings tend to build relationships with the resident veterans living at the facilities and typically take place weekly.

In addition to the visitation efforts, the Visit-A-Vet committee has organized a Flag Day ceremony, a car show with the help of Highlands Motoring Festival members, a trip to a Post meeting, and the presentation of patriotic quilts provided by Kate Shaw and the Mountain Valley Quilters organization. More events like this are planned for this year with the help of the Eckerd‘s Living Center Activities Director

Stephanie McMahan.

In addition to these specialized programs, the local American Legion Post organizes numerous ceremonies and events honoring past and present veterans. In addition to this Memorial Day ceremony, they include four Chaplains Service, Vietnam Veterans Day, Flag Day, Veterans Day, Poppies Fundraiser, Support of the Motoring Festival, American Legion North Carolina Boys and Girls State, supporting Wreaths Across America Activities, participation in the Highlands Christmas Parade, and numerous local veterans-oriented organizations and charities.

The Highlands American Legion Post 370 works hard to support the Legion’s national mission to, “enhance the wellbeing of American veterans, their families, our military, and our communities by our devotion to mutual helpfulness.”

If you are interested in supporting the American Legion or veterans causes in the Highlands area, please email ncpost370@ gmail.com for more information.

by Chip Snyder / photos by Greg Clarkson

A Festival of Classics

America’s love affair with all things automotive finds its full expression with Highlands Motoring Festival, set for June 6-9.

In America 110 years ago, technology was meager, financial ruin was one downturn away, war was ongoing in Europe, and Americans walked everywhere (or took a streetcar if they lived in cities.)

On the bright side, Charlie Chaplin made his film debut, Babe Ruth did likewise on the baseball field, and The New York Times reported that the women of 1914 were “becomingly and decently clad; and that evening dress, in spite of the eccentric broadening effect at the hips, will be gratifying to the eye.”

In France, one of the most historically important race cars of the 20th century was built – the Peugeot L45 Grand Prix Racer. These automobiles ushered in the use of a dual overhead camshaft engine, a feature that can be found under the hood of almost every modern-day race car. Designed by the renegade geniuses known as the Charlatans, their brilliance lay in their ability to imagine, and then execute the entire technical package to effectively increase their racing advantage. The car raced in the Indianapolis five times, finishing third

in 1916 and notably was also raced by World War I ace and subsequent owner of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Eddie Rickenbacker.

The Peugeot L45 is among the 85 classic cars on display at “Classics in the Park” in Highlands’ Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on June 8. The centerpiece event of the Highlands Motoring Festival, these vintage cars represent a meaningful reflection on the history of the last century in the US, and the importance of how we tell the stories of that past.

For those whose passion is automobiles, nothing is likely to beat the excitement of the chance to wander through acres of historic cars and participate in auto-related events spread out over the four-day festival, June 6–9.

What began in 2008 as a simple single day car show, the Highlands Motoring Festival is today an entire ‘holy’ weekend for the motoring faithful. Voted Best Concours by Classic Motorsports Magazine in 2019, it’s one of the South’s most esteemed automotive events.

The festivities kick off on Thursday and continue with full throttle excitement until Sunday. Highlights of the weekend are four exhilarating driving tours, designated as technical rallies designed to give drivers a chance to experience the mountains, and the Friday evening’s Main Street Parade, which historically includes 100 mostly antique and show cars.

Organizers are particularly excited about the Saturday evening gala at the Vineyard at High Holly, hosted by this year’s Grand Marshall Bill Warner, founder, and chairman of the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. The final act of the weekend is the free ‘High Octane’ social and car gathering at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on Sunday morning at 8:30 A.M.

The festival is organized by community volunteers and all proceeds go to local human needs charities. For full details, visit HighlandsMotoringFestival.com. by Marlene Osteen

A Cultural Celebration

The Dia del Niño Festival will be held on Saturday, June 1, between Noon and 3:00 P.M. at the Village Green’s Village Play in Cashiers. The event is completely free and will feature amazing food, games, and prizes for kids of all ages.

Immerse yourself in the vibrancy of childhood joy and cultural celebration this June.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of WNC, the Albert-Carlton Cashiers Community Library, the International Friendship Center, and Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau are thrilled to invite you to a spectacular afternoon brimming with laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

This year is marked by additional collaborations with the Highlands Counseling Center and the Highlands-Cashiers Health Foundation, celebrating the importance of mental health awareness. Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 1, from Noon to 3:00 P.M, and join us at the heart of Cashiers, the Village Green and Village Play, for an event that promises to be the highlight of your summer.

Prepare for an explosion of fun as we transform the venue into a vibrant

festival wonderland. Immerse yourself in the lively rhythms of music, indulge in the deliciousness of Latin street foods, and dive into a sea of games and activities designed to delight and entertain. From piñatas to tug-o-war, sack races, water balloons, face painting, corn hole, and musical chairs, we’ve got something for everyone!

Originating from Mexico and celebrated around the world, Día del Niño, or Children’s Day, is a heartfelt homage to the innocence and potential of our youngest generation.

“It’s a day to make children feel special, celebrated on a scale as grand as Mother’s or Father’s Day in many cultures,” says IFC Executive Director T.J. Smith. With activities as joyful and enriching as the holiday itself, we’re bringing this beautiful tradition to Cashiers, proving that the spirit of childhood knows no borders.

This event is more than just fun and games; it’s a symbol of community, cultural awareness, and inclusivity. “By joining hands with our fellow nonprofits, we’re not just creating an event; we’re weaving the rich fabric of our community tighter, celebrating our shared values and the joy of connection,” shares Danielle Hernandez, Program Director for BBBS WNC Macon and Jackson counties.

El Dia del Niño is open to all, completely free of charge. A special thanks to the Village Green, and site managers Ashlie Mitchell and Shelby Batchelor, for making this dream a reality for a third year!

by Courtney Scarborough, Big Brothers Big Sisters of WNC

Making an Impact

Mountaintop Rotary’s generous spirit and tireless energy have enriched lives on the Plateau and far, far beyond.

Mountaintop Rotary’s Art and Craft Show will be held on June 29 and 30 and again on August 24 and 25 at KelseyHutchinson Founders Park on Pine Street in Highlands.

This two-day event is an art and craft show that has transformed itself into a true art festival. As their website proudly declares this is “not just a show, it’s a destination.” It’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy our area’s unique culture and heritage while shopping for items from an immensely talented array of artisans who will be displaying their work.

This event goes beyond shopping. Proceeds directly benefit the Mountaintop Rotary Club’s 501(c) (3) fund, allowing them to make a significant impact on our local and global communities. Their tireless efforts have raised over $31,000 in the past year, supporting a variety of worthy causes

such as the Maui Fire Relief Fund, the Highlands Cashiers Players, and the Blue Ridge Free Dental Clinic among others.

Locally, they led the Highlands Community Coat Drive providing over 3000 gently used winter garments to those in need and distributed through the Highlands Emergency Council. In addition, Mountaintop Rotary purchased $4,000 of new coats for the coat drive.

They supported the International Friendship Center’s College Access Program and helped fund a trip to Washington D.C. for Gracie Potter’s “Why Us Kids” a Franklin mental health organization.

Throughout the year, they’ve tackled numerous service projects; assisting the Highlands Emergency Council by chopping firewood for families needing help in heating their homes; and participating in regular roadside cleanups. They manage the local Meals on Wheels program on Mondays, ensuring seniors

receive a nutritious hot meal.

If there’s a community event you can count on these dedicated Rotarians to extend a helping hand, staffing the Highlands Snow Fest and Dahlia Fest parking, and along with Highlands Rotary, contributed to the success of the Highlands Christmas Dinner which raised $36,000 for early childhood programs.

They recognize the importance of investing in our future generations. Through their “Investment Service Projects,” they’ve collected over $6,000 for initiatives including “Shoes for Kids,” a toy drive for local students, and Bryson’s Giving Tree which benefits local food banks.

Inspired by their dedication? Learn more about the Mountaintop Rotary Club and how you can get involved at mountaintoprotaryclubhighlands.org.

by Mary Jane McCall

Cause for Paws

Coming Home is the sort of fun, loving fundraiser that’s kept the CashiersHighlands Humane Society’s cats and dogs in kibble and clover for decades – June 17 at The Country Club of Sapphire Valley. For information and tickets, call (828) 743-5769.

It’s the most joyous moment in a pet’s life. And for animal lovers, too. It’s the moment you open the front door. The moment you are coming home. You may have been gone on a long vacation or important business trip. Or just for a day at the office. Perhaps a round of golf. Maybe even just a walk down to the mailbox. To your pet, it doesn’t matter where you went or how long you were gone. What matters is that you have come home.

For more than a decade, we held our annual fundraiser for the CHHS shelter pets at the beautiful Country Club of Sapphire Valley. But we haven’t had our event there since before the Covid-19 pandemic. This year, for the first time in five years, we are “coming home” to a very special place that hosted some of the most memorable and successful fundraisers in our history.

Coming Home, the 2024 gala for the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society,

is Monday, June 17, at 5:00 P.M. at The Country Club of Sapphire Valley. The evening will feature a live and silent auction combined with a magnificent dinner and beer, wine and spirits. Live auction items include an unforgettable one-week vacation in Sea Island, Georgia including tickets to the RSM Golf Classic, private dinner parties, an exclusive luncheon for 12 at the majestic Rockwood Lodge, a once-in-a-lifetime falconry experience, and the opportunity to feature your pet on the side of our newly-donated animal transport vehicle.

Coming Home is limited to just 200 guests. Tickets are $225 per person and tables of 10 can be reserved for $2,250.

A portion of the ticket/table purchase is a generous, tax-deductible contribution to support our lifesaving mission of rescue, spay/neuter and adoption, and community outreach programs such as humane education, summer camps, rabies vaccination clinics, pet therapy

and a free food pet pantry. A fundraiser for the CHHS shelter pets is always the “must-attend” party for party animals on the plateau and always sells out quickly. You can reserve your seats today by calling (828) 743-5769.

Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit animal welfare organization located at 200 Gable Drive in Sapphire, 1 ½ miles east of the Cashiers Ingles in between Cedar Creek Club and Lonesome Valley on Highway 64. Visit us online at chhumanesociety. org. Tax-deductible donations to support our lifesaving work can be mailed to: CHHS, P.O. Box 638, Cashiers, NC 28717.

by David Stroud, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society

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Celebrating 10 Years

The Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau celebrates the Summer Season with a ribbon cutting for its new Highlands location –5:00 P.M. Tuesday, May 21 at 171 Hospital Drive.

The Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau is thrilled to celebrate its 10-year anniversary and announce the exciting growth of the organization. With the opening of a second location in Highlands this summer, the club is expanding its reach and impact in the community. This milestone is a testament to the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and supporters who have made it possible for us to provide a safe and nurturing environment for our children to learn, grow and thrive.

The Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau cordially invites everyone to join them for the Ribbon Cutting at their new Highlands location on Tuesday, May 21 at 5:00 P.M.. The event will take place at 171 Hospital Drive in Highlands. This opening promises to be an evening filled with excitement, as well as showcase our new facility. Light refreshments will be served, and attendees will have the

chance to participate in outdoor activities and take a self-guided tour of the facility.

As the summer season approaches, the club is happy to announce that they have over 300 children enrolled in their Summer Camp program. Campers are in for a fun-filled and action-packed summer, complete with engaging activities and unforgettable experiences.

In addition to Summer Camp, BGCP is thrilled to announce that registration is open for the fall season for both sites. The club will provide a variety of fun and educational activities that cater to the diverse interest and needs of the members and are designed to foster intellectual, social and emotional growth.

Some of the program highlights include the Read to Learn Program which is a long-term tutoring program for students ages six to nine who require additional support. Power Hour is a time dedicated to completing homework and engaging

in academic drills. This program encourages students to develop good study habits and excel academically! Youth can also have the opportunity to explore their artistic talents while enriching their problem solving skills and learning the value of teamwork.

With these offerings and many more, BGCP is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment where children can learn, grow and develop into successful individuals. The Club looks forward to sharing their journey of growth and empowerment as they shape a Brighter Future for their young members.

by Merrel Hattink, Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau

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Bluegrass Brunch, 10:30 AM - 1 PM, Highlander Mountain House. Dinner, Chef Terry Koval, 6-8 PM, The Farm at Old Edwards. Hymn Sing, 7 PM, Little Church in the Wildwood. Music Bingo, 7:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

“At last came the golden month of the wild folk – honey-sweet May, when the birds come back, and the flowers come out, and the air is full of the sunrise scents and songs of the dawning year.” — Samuel Scoville, Jr. 10 6 5 7 8 3

Studio Alive, 10 AM, The Bascom.

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

Dancing on the Green, 7 PM, The Village Green.

Community Jam Sessions, 2-4 PM, Albert CarltonCashiers Community Library. Bear Shadow, 1:30 PM, Winfield Farm.

Highlands Cashiers Players, Always a Bridesmaid, 2 PM, Highlands PAC. Hymn Sing, 7 PM, Little Church in the Wildwood. Music Bingo, 7:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Studio Alive, 10 AM, The Bascom.

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

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

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.

Locally Grown on the Green, 11 AM-3 PM, Village Green Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

High Style, Pancakes & Prosecco Breakfast, 10-11:30 AM, The Bascom. Highlands Cashiers Players, Always a Bridesmaid, 2 PM, Highlands PAC. Hymn Sing, 7 PM, Little Church in the Wildwood. Music Bingo, 7:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Kids Village Nature Series, 4 PM, The Village Green.

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.

Locally Grown on the Green, 11 AM-3 PM, Village Green Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Bazaar Barn 10 AM-2 PM.

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

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:30 PM, Lewis Hall. Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

3 Rivers Fly-Fishing Festival, 8 AM-5 PM, Highlands.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM.

The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

Live Music, Darren Nicholson, 6 PM, Happs Place. Live Music, 9 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM.

Locally Grown on the Green, 11 AM-3 PM, Village Green. Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Bazaar Barn 10 AM-2 PM.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-6 PM, Methodist Church. The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:30 PM, Lewis Hall.

Highlands Cashiers Players, Always a Bridesmaid, 7:30 PM, Highlands PAC. Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

Bazaar Barn 10 AM-2 PM. Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:30 PM, Lewis Hall. Highlands Cashiers Players, Always a Bridesmaid, 7:30 PM, Highlands PAC. Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM. The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM.

Author Talk, Diane Kelly, 3 PM, Cashiers Community Library.

Highlands Cashiers Players, Always a Bridesmaid, 7:30 PM, Highlands PAC.

Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

Live Music, Doug Ramsey, 6 PM, Happ’s Place.

Live Music, 9 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM.

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.

High Style Meet & Greet, 5PM, Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park.

Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

Friday Night Live, Silly Ridge, 6 PM, Town Square.

Live Music, Charles Walker, 6 PM, Happs Place.

Highlands Cashiers Players, Always a Bridesmaid, 7:30 PM, PAC.

Live Music, 9 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Airing of the Quilts, 10 AM,

Bingo, 7:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Studio Alive, 10 AM, The Bascom.

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

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

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.

Bazaar Barn 10 AM-2 PM.

Bazaar Barn 10 AM-2 PM.

Live Music,

Locally Grown on the Green, 11 AM-3 PM, Village Green. Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

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

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:30 PM, Lewis Hall. Rotary Bingo, Rotary Club of Highlands, 6:30 PM, Highlands Recreation Center. Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM.

Peter Millar and Roberto Coin Trunk Show, TJ Bailey. Groovin’ on the Green, Darren Nicholson Band, 6 PM, The Village Green.

Friday Night Live, McClain Family Band, 6 PM, Town Square. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. Live Music, 9 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Studio Alive, 10 AM, The Bascom.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Airing of the Quilts, 10 AM, Cashiers Historical Society. Highlands’ Memorial Day Service, 10 AM, Veterans Plaza.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Village Nature Series, 5:30 PM, The Village Green.

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.

Locally Grown on the Green, 11 AM-3 PM, Village Green. Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

10 AM-1 PM.

3 Rivers Fly-Fishing Festival, 8 AM -5 PM, Highlands. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM.

Mojo & The Bayou Gypsies, 7:30 PM, Highlands PAC

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

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

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

Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. Groovin’ on the Green, Kevin Daniel & The Bottom Line, 6 PM, The Village Green Friday Night Live, Byrds & Crows, 6 PM, Town Square.

Live Music, The Remnants, 6 PM, Happs Place.

The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM. Pop-Up Pipers, 4:30 PM, Highlands. Kentucky Derby Party 5-9 PM, The Village Green. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. Live Music, Blue Jazz Band, 6 PM, Happs Place. Mojo & The Bayou Gypsies, 7:30 PM, Highlands PAC Live Music, 9 PM, High Dive.

4:30 PM, Highlands. ,

Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM. The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. MET: Madame Butterfly, 1 PM, PAC. Highland Dog Show, 1 PM, Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park. Bear Shadow, 1:30 PM, Winfield Farm. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. Live Music, JW Band, Happs Place. Highlands Cashiers Players, Always a Bridesmaid, 7:30 PM, PAC. Live Music, 9 PM, High Dive. 11

Mountain Findings, , 11 AM-4 PM.

High Style Fashion Show, Saturdays on Pine, Continental Divide, 6 PM, Kelsey Hutchinson. Live Music, Rock Holler, 6 PM, Happs Place.

1 View the complete Highlands Cashiers Plateau Calendar 12

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM. The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM. High Style Fashion Show, 10-11 AM, Town Square. Saturdays on Pine, Continental Divide, 6 PM, Kelsey Hutchinson. Live Music, Rock Holler, 6 PM, Happs Place. Highlands Cashiers Players, Always a Bridesmaid, 7:30 PM, PAC. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. Live Music, 9 PM, High Dive.

13 17 16 15 18 9 4 19

Highlands Cashiers Players, Always a Bridesmaid, 7:30 PM, PAC. Music, Hummingbird Lounge. Music, 9 PM, High Dive.

Highlands Baseball Field.

Hummingbird Lounge.

Mountain Garden Club Plant Sale, 9 AM-12 PM, Highlands Baseball Field. Airing of the Quilts, 10 AM, Cashiers Historical Society. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Peter Millar and Roberto Coin Trunk Show, TJ Bailey. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. Live Music, Young Mtn Magic, 6 PM, Happs Place. Saturdays on Pine, Southside Station, 6 PM, Kelsey Hutchinson. Live Music, 9 PM, High Dive.

Bazaar Barn 10 AM-2 PM. Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:30 PM, Lewis Hall. Orchard Sessions, Highbeams, 6-8 PM, The Farm at Old Edwards. Live Music, Jake Matthews, 6 PM, Happs Place. Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

Live Music, 9 PM, Ugly Dog Pub. 30 29 31

Cashiers Historical Society.

Peter Millar and Roberto Coin Trunk Show, TJ Bailey. Community Jam Sessions, 2-4 PM, Albert Carlton Library. Hymn Sing, 7 PM, Little Church in the Wildwood. Music

June Events

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5 - SATURDAY, JUNE 22

Mountain Theatre Company’s Grease

Highlands PAC

Grease is still the word! One of the most beloved musicals of all time hits the MTC stage in a high-octane production featuring all the hit songs you love. mountaintheatre.com

MONDAY, JUNE 17

CHHS’s Coming Home Gala Country Club of Sapphire Valley

The evening - to benefit the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society - will feature a live and silent auction combined with a magnificent dinner and beer, wine and spirits chhumanesociety.org

SATURDAY - SUNDAY, JUNE 29-30

Mountaintop Art and Craft Show

Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park

From pottery and photography to weaving and basketry, you’ll find a wide variety of art and crafts. One thing our show specializes in is rustic furniture and wood accessories. Enjoy live music. Dogs and children welcome. highlandsartshow.com

ON THE HORIZON July Events

THURSDAY - SUNDAY, JUNE 6 - 9

Highlands Motoring Festival

Highlands, North Carolina

Oh, the tales they’ll tell! The classic autos at the heart of Highlands Motoring Festival are dramatic fusions of chrome, craftsmanship and passion. highlandsmotoringfestival.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 29

Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock & Roll

Highlands PAC

Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock & Roll is not only a highly entertaining look at the history of iconic music, using the best musicians and authentic Broadway/Rock & Roll artists in the world, but also tells the story of America since the 1930s. highlandsperformingarts.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3

Cashiers Fireworks Extravaganza

The Village Green

The annual Fireworks Extravaganza on The Green will take place rain or shine, on The Village Green Commons Lawn. Entertainment will be provided by rhythm and blues band Continental Divide, and a fireworks show starts around 9 PM featuring 1000s of colorful bursts! villagegreencashiersnc.com

SATURDAY, JULY 6

Community Day at The Bascom The Bascom

An event made for you and your family! Join us for a day filled with free art activities for the whole family. thebascom.org

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24 - SATURDAY, AUGUST 10

Mountain Theatre Company’s Catch Me If You Can Highlands PAC

This high-flying musical comedy is based on the unbelievable true story of one of the most famous con artists in history, Frank Abagnale Jr., and the hit film starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks. Catch Me If You Can is a rousing musical set during the jet-set age of the 1960s. mountaintheatre.com

EVENT SERIES

Locally Grown On The Green Wednesdays | 11 AM | The Village Green

Friday Night Live Fridays beginning May 17 | 6-8:30 PM | Town Square

Highlands Marketplace Saturdays | 8 AM-12:30 PM | KH Park

Saturdays on Pine Saturdays beginning May 18 | 6-8:30 PM | KH Park

THURSDAY, JULY 4

Highlands Independence Day Celebration

Highlands, North Carolina

Enjoy a family fun day of Water Rockets, Hotdog Lunch, Field Games, Ladder Truck Spraydown, Duck Derby, Live Music, and of course - Fireworks. visithighlandsnc.com

SATURDAY - SUNDAY, JULY 20 - 21

Summer Colors Fine Art Show

Held at the Sapphire Valley Resort Community Center, this event will feature the original artwork of talented regional artists. Paintings, photographs, glass, wood, one-of-a-kind jewelry and other original artwork will be on display and for sale. artleaguehighlands-cashiers.com

Monthly

Village Nature Series Last Tuesdays | 5 PM | The Village Green

Pop-Up Pipers First Saturdays | 4:30-5 PM | Around Highlands Orchard Sessions Select Dates | 6-8 PM | The Farm at Old Edwards May 30, June 20, July 11, Aug. 15, Oct. 10

Likeable, Hikeable Falls

Stepping just slightly off the Beaten Path reveals hidden wonders like the hypnotic Upper Middle Creek Falls.

We have lived three miles from this waterfall for over 16 years and it was only last year that we became aware of its existence. We had passed by the trailhead along highway 106 hundreds of times. Only on a few occasions did we notice cars parked where the trailhead is located. Even though the height of the falls is only about 40 feet, it is one of our favorites, especially after a heavy rain when the flow is at a high volume. The photo was taken two days after a three-inch rain. It is a nice waterfall to visit most any time.

If you are feeling really adventurous and you are a glutton for punishment, a second waterfall, Middle Creek Falls,

is less than a half mile from the trailhead. Be forewarned that it is a moderate to difficult trail that is hard to follow requiring some scrambling to get to the base of the falls. If interested, look for a hike description online.

Trailhead directions: From the intersection of US 64 and Highway 106 in Highlands, drive west nine miles on Highway 106. Look for a school bus sign on the right. Park immediately in front of the sign. There is enough space to park two cars. The obvious trail head begins a few yards east of the sign. If you pass Lazy A Road on the right, you went a few hundred yards too far.

Hike description: This hike is rated easy-to-moderate. The

first few feet of the trail are somewhat steep but doable. Proceed down the trail about 100 yards where you will take another trail to the right. After a couple hundred feet, you will come to Middle Creek. You must cross the creek. It is an extremely easy crossing as it is only a few feet wide. The last time we visited the falls there was a board across the creek to step on. The falls are just ahead. The best viewpoint is approximately 12 feet above the creek.

At a Glance Waterfall Guide

HIGHLANDS

Bridal Veil Falls

From NC 106 in Highlands, drive 2.3 miles west on US 64; Waterfall GPS: N35.07180 W-83.22910. Difficulty: You can park your car in a little parking area and walk 50 feet.

Dry Falls

From NC 106 in Highlands, drive 3.15 miles west on US 64 to a parking area on the left; Waterfall GPS: N35.06884 W-83.23869. Difficulty: There are lots of steps you must go down to get behind Dry Falls.

Bust Your Butt Falls

From NC 106 in Highlands, drive 6.35 miles west on US 64 to the pullout on the left; Waterfall GPS: N35.09268 W-83.26573. Difficulty: Don’t stop on the road itself!

Glen Falls

From the junction of US 64 and NC 106 in Highlands, drive 1.75 miles south on NC 106 and bear left at the sign for Glen Falls. Take Glen Falls Road, not Holt Road. Drive 1.05 miles to the parking area. Waterfall GPS: N35.03128 W-83.23829. Difficulty: There’s some climbing involved here.

Upper Middle Creek Falls

From the intersection of NC 106 and US 64, follow NC 106 South for 9.3 miles. Exactly 1 mile before you reach the Georgia state line, and about 0.3 miles after NC 106 crosses Middle Creek, a yellow School Bus Stop sign will be on the right. Park on the right side of the road right at the sign. Waterfall GPS: N35.00714 W-83.32916. Difficulty: The four-tenths of a mile hike is not strenuous but it can be confusing.

CASHIERS

Silver Run Falls

From US 64 in Cashiers, head south on NC 107 for 4.05 miles – there’s a pullout area on the left. Waterfall GPS N35.06599 W-83.06558. Difficulty: No difficulty.

Whitewater Falls

From US 64 west of Lake Toxaway, take NC 281 for 8.5 miles and turn left at the sign for Whitewater Falls into a parking area. Difficulty: Not strenuous, though the paved path is a bit uneven.

Cashiers Sliding Rock

Cashiers Sliding Rock, a million miles from the cares of the 21st century, is easy to get to. From the Cashiers Crossroads, travel south on NC 107 to Whiteside Cove Road. Head down the road for 2.6 miles to where the road crosses the Chattooga River and pull over just across the bridge. Difficulty: A piece of cake.

Spoonauger Falls

From Cashiers, travel on NC 107 8.2 miles. The name changes to SC 107 – travel for 4.9 miles. Turn right onto Burrells Ford Road. Drive approximately 2.0 miles to the Chattooga Trail parking area on the left (look for the Forest Service Bulletin Board) Hike north on the Chattooga Trail, which roughly parallels the Chattooga River for 0.25 mile, then cross Spoonauger Creek. Immediately on the right will be a side trail. Difficulty: There’s nothing tricky.

Schoolhouse Falls

by Ed and Cindy Boos

From US 64, take NC 281 North for 0.85 miles and bear left on Cold Mountain Road. Stay on the road. When it becomes unpaved, travel about 0.1 miles. Take the road on the right and travel for 0.1 miles to a parking area. Take the trail to the right of the information kiosk. At the intersection, proceed straight on Panthertown Valley Trail. Turn left onto Little Green Trail. Schoolhouse Falls is about 0.15 miles ahead. Waterfall GPS N35.16330 W-83.00674 Difficulty: The hike isn’t challenging.

And a River Runs Through It

The timeless charm of the Chattooga River and its complementary trails is perfect for picnics and pauses and quick dips.

Norman McClean’s 1976-published book, A River Runs Through It and Other Stories, continues to endear and captivate readers – as does the 1992 movie adaptation starring Brad Pitt. The beautiful prose describes so much about this exceptional area – and all that the water features convey personally and practically. The last words, in fact, read: “The river was cut by the world’s great flood and runs over rocks from the basement of time. On some of the rocks are timeless raindrops. Under the rocks are the words, and some of the words are theirs. I am haunted by waters.”

A local river that runs over rocks from the basement of time is the Chattooga River. It begins in these Appalachian Mountains and rushes, flows, and/or meanders for 50-miles to end at Lake Tugaloo between South Carolina and Georgia and dropping almost one-half-mile in elevation.

A 1.75-mile loop trail, aptly named the Chattooga Loop Trail, presents to hikers a snippet of just how beautiful is this river corridor. Countless species of plants, trees, moss, and

fungi exist. This time of year, one might find liverwort, rock gnome lichen, and divided leaf ragwort – just to name very few examples.

The Chattooga Loop Trail begins to the left of what is called Iron Bridge and follows a longer Chattooga River Trail for 0.6 miles before a hard left is necessary and the Loop Trail continues uphill. Eventually, the trail joins an old logging road, where there is a clearing with a picnic table. The loop runs right to Bull Pen Road and back downhill to return to Iron Bridge.

It is a trail that can be enjoyed by anyone, from the casual walker to the avid hiker. Its main highlight is that more than half of the loop follows the Chattooga River. In summertime, there are spots to cool off. Children, adults, and dogs alike might enjoy a refreshing dip in the river.

Not just because there is a picnic table about halfway, but because of the trail’s accessibility and five senses opportunities, it begs for a long pause and a picnic. Bring a portable

fishing pole and a license to try to snag a trout out of the Chattooga River.

The only obstacles that may need to be maneuvered around or over are downed trees, and after rainstorms some of the rocks and roots on the trail might be slippery and the paths muddy. Otherwise, there are few inclines and the path is easily manageable.

To get to the Chattooga Loop Trail from Highlands proceed east on Main Street, which becomes Horse Cove Road, and drive four and a half miles to intersection with Bull Pen and Whiteside Cove roads. Turn right onto Bull Pen Road (#1178) and proceed for 3.1 miles to Iron Bridge. The trailhead is on the left just before bridge. From Cashiers proceed on Hwy. 107 South for seven miles and turn right onto Bull Pen Road (#1178 #1180). Proceed for about five and a half miles to the Iron Bridge. The trailhead is on right on far side of bridge.

by Deena Bouknight / photo by Charles Johnson

The Amazing Ruby-Throated Hummingbird

“Let me tell ya ‘bout the birds and the bees And the flowers and the trees”

In May, in the avian world, the birds are full of song as the males look for and try to attract the females, mate, build a nest, and raise a clutch of young’uns.

Nature begins to conspire full-on this month to conceive and launch the next generation.

Couples form. Nests get built. Eggs laid. “And the beat goes on.”

Our Ruby-throated Hummingbirds

(Archilochus colubris) are part of this never-ending story. These wizards of flight have returned to the Plateau for the spring and summer. They are easily recognized as tiny, feathered jewels of forest and meadow that dart around flashing an iridescent green crown and back as well as the male’s ruby red throat.

Their movement is unique in the avian world. With wingbeats of over 50 per second, they can reach dizzying speeds,

start and stop in an instant, hover, fly backwards and even fly upside down. They achieve lift with both the down stroke and uptake of their pivoting wings. They have endurance as well as agility: this migrant winters in Central American and in early spring flies to eastern North America covering over a thousand miles.

The Ruby-throated has a diet of nectar from tubular flowers and small insects including mosquitoes, gnats and flies—

Ruby-throated Hummingbird feeding hatchlings photo by Ed Boos

Male Hummingbird on the Wing photo by William T. McReynolds

caught in midair—as well as spiders and insects in spider webs. Insects make up over 60 percent of its diet and are a vital source of protein.

Mating is a brief affair. That leaves the larger female with the responsibility of rearing the young hummers and the smaller male free to migrate early. Nests are small cups made of thistle or dandelion held together with spider silk. Eggs are pea sized.

Ruby-throated hummers are the only

indigenous hummingbirds here on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. They are quite tolerant of the human presence and hummingbird feeders containing fresh sugar water are important components of their diet. Use one part table sugar dissolved in four parts rainwater or pure water in a clean feeder (no red coloring). Place the feeder where cats cannot pounce on unsuspecting visitors. In hot weather, the nectar will need to be refreshed every few days.

Happy May birding from the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society. Visit us at highlandsaudubonsociety. org for information on membership and all activities.

“And the moon up above And a thing called love.”

by William T. McReynolds

Conversations on Conservation

The 2024 Zahner Conservation Lecture Series offers unprecedented views of life on the Plateau and far beyond.

The Highlands Biological Foundation is offering its 2024 Zahner Conservation Lecture Series, held at Highlands Nature Center on Thursday evenings at 6:00 P.M. between June 13 and August 15 (no lecture on July 4).

This year’s series promises to be enlightening and informative as it covers a wide range of topics including birds and climate change, the diverse sounds of nature, and regional geology. The lectures are free and open to the public, providing an excellent opportunity for individuals to expand their knowledge and engage in important conversations about conservation.

Please note that parking is limited on campus. Parking can be found behind and across from the Highlands Nature Center, in the Valentine House parking lot (888 Horse Cove Road), and at HBF’s Administration Building (265 N. 6th Street). For those who are able, some parking is available at the North Campus area (111 Lower Lake Road) with a 15-to-20-minute hike to the Nature Center. After 5:30 P.M., parking is also available at Hudson Library with a 15-to-20-minute hike to the Nature Center.

June 13: Ecological Sovereignty: Managing Natural Resources from a Cherokee Biologist with Dr. Caleb Hickman

June 20: Appalachian Apothecary: Herbs of Yesterday and Today with Patricia Howell

June 27: 2018-2020: Two Years, Eight Storms, 320+ landslides, and an Earthquake: What We Learned about the Connections Between Weather, Climate Change, Landforms and Geology with Rick Wooten

July 11: Landscape Meanders: Design Ideas for the South Gateway Garden at the Highlands Botanical Garden with Warren Byrd

July 18: Fire, acorns, and kids that stay with you way too long: A natural history of the threatened Florida Scrub Jay with Dr. Sahas Barve

July 25: Climate-informed Forestry in the Southern Appalachians with Greg Cooper

August 1: The Surface Water and Ocean Topography Mission: NASA’s New Eye in the Sky for Earth’s Water with Dr. Tamlin Pavelsky

August 8: Roaming the Wilds: Exploring NC Mammals Shore to Summit with Dr. Aimee Rockhill

August 15: All About Hellbenders with Lori Williams

Three Days on The Fly

The 3 River Fly Fishing Festival unfolds in streams all over this corner of Western North Carolina, May 2-4.

There are those among us who believe that fly fishing in a mountain stream is just about as close to Heaven on earth as you can get. And if you find yourself casting amid the cascading waters of a waterfall during the 3 Rivers Fly Fishing Festival, you’re getting even closer to that heavenly experience.

It’s not just about being in an unbelievably beautiful and serene spot, surrounded by nature, the fresh air, and experiencing the vanishingly rare chance to concentrate on just one thing in the world. It’s also about the fact that your entry fee and dollars spent are contributing to the Town of Highlands Scholarship Fund.

The annual 3 Rivers Fly Fishing Festival will take place for the 13th time from May 2- 4. Over the course of the weekend, two-person teams (guided and unguided) will compete for prizes, fishing the 2200 miles of fishing territory withing contest boundaries. They will do so while explor-

ing the designated waterways categorized into wild streams, hatchery-supported and delayed harvest. But the truth is it really doesn’t matter if you and your teammate are actually rubbish at the act of catching fish. For the real aim of the event is to have fun while raising money for the Town of Highlands scholarship fund.

Since 1975, the Town of Highlands has been granting college scholarships to around two dozen graduates of Highlands High School, with awards ranging from $300 to $1500. What sets this scholarship fund apart is its unique criteria: grants are neither need nor achievement based. Students can request assistance at any time post-graduation, regardless of their current stage of higher education—whether pursuing a two-year degree, postgraduate studies, or a trade program.

The fund’s inception was the vision of several Highlanders, including Jack Taylor and Jack Brockaway. The first scholarship recipient, Leigh James, vividly recalls

feeling overwhelmed by the opportunity it afforded her—to attend her dream college, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. ‘It was the icing on the cake that completed my financial aid package.”

The 3 Rivers Fly Fishing Festival plays a pivotal role in supporting this fund. All proceeds from entry fees and the silent auction go directly to the scholarship fund. Over the years, the festival has raised over $150,000. Chris Wilkes, the owner of Highlands Hiker and one of the festival sponsors, leads the event alongside co-chairs Bryan Lewis, Pat Gleeson, and Drew Townes. Wilkes shared with me his excitement for this year’s festival, “We’re aiming to raise over $30,000,” he said. The auction features enticing items, including a trout taxidermy table, rods, reels, clothing, and gear, with hopes of doubling the funds raised through entry fees.

For more information or to register visit, 3riverflyfish.com or call Chris Wilkes at The Highland Hiker, (828) 526-5298.

The Night’s Thousand Eyes

Those black velvet nights are a beloved part of the Plateau’s natural heritage that the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust is endeavoring to preserve.

Human imagination has long been stirred by the night sky. Scientists recently determined that cave art dating up to 40,000 years old depicts not animals as originally believed, but rather star constellations.

In Cherokee lore stars were living creatures covered with luminous fur or feathers. More recent observers have tried to capture the mystery in artistic terms; poet Francis Bourdillon reminded us that “the night has a thousand eyes, and the day but one.”

And of course, most are familiar with Vincent Van Gogh’s painting “The Starry Night,” capturing the view from his asylum window as he struggled with mental illness, a work that “assigns an emotional language to night and nature.”

Indeed, almost every human culture has charged the heavens with powers both mystical and scientific.

But what if humans and other species could no longer discern the stars and other heavenly bodies?

Birds and other pollinators use celestial references to navigate during migration.

For billions of years creatures evolved with the rhythmic cycle of light and darkness, and thus a dark night sky is vital to many organisms’ intrinsic functions.

Birds and other pollinators use celestial references to navigate during migration. Bats, who feed during the night, find their habitat shrinking. Circadian rhythms drive the reproductive and nourishment cycles, as well

as provide predator protection, for amphibians, birds, mammals, insects, and plants.

And it’s not just the animals; studies increasingly indicate that artificial lighting and

…the night has a thousand eyes, and the day but one.

absence of adequate cyclical darkness can impair human melatonin production, immune and endocrine systems, and result in increased risks of diabetes, depression, and certain cancers.

A quick internet search will result in numerous maps that show the pervasive progression of artificial light’s impacts with staggering effects in only a few decades. Scientists now estimate that only 20% of the people in world can see the Milky Way.

The good news is that communities and organizations are increasingly aware of this trend and taking corrective steps. North Carolina now has three certified international dark sky parks, two in Western North Carolina.

And of course light pollution is the easiest to mitigate - just turn off unnecessary exterior lighting at your house, and urge your neighborhood and community to do the same.

The Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust works to conserve the natural resources of our special place; for more info please see hcltnc.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

by Lance Hardin, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust photo by Andrew Renfro

Things WithWings

Birds of a feather flock together when gardens and lawns are planned with care and compassion.

Birds of a feather flock together when gardens and lawns are planned with care and compassion.

Did you know a pair of Carolina Chickadees needs 6,000-9,000 caterpillars to feed one brood? For songbirds, 96 percent of their food is caterpillars. Your backyard Camelot is their Worm-a-lot. It’s nesting season now. Brooders welcome your support in the worm world. While it’s great to put out birdseed in Winter, in the Spring bears are likely to forage your feeders. That can be a whole bunch of too-much. Instead of struggling with feeders, spend your seed-money on planting at least one native tree in your yard. You’ll have a choir of grateful songbirds serenading you for decades. A native oak tree can support caterpillars of over 500 species of butterflies and moths for the lifetime of the tree. Butterfly-lovers, don’t worry about birds eating too many butterfly larvae.

Pollinators lay zillions of eggs. It’s Mother Nature’s time-tested plan, and it supports a huge branch on her family tree, literally and figuratively.

That means feed the worms whilst feeding the birds. Provide plants that butterflies and moths require to reproduce, like native milkweed for Monarchs and plants in the carrot family for Swallowtails. Most butterfly food plants are grown in full sun, so plan your butterfly and bird gardens appropriately.

After you get that worm-attracting oak planted, invest in native plants that produce seeds, berries, nuts and nectars. Next, consider providing nesting areas to which you can install nesting boxes, birdbaths, a fresh water source, and low plants for hoppers (like thrashers). Weed away invasive plants which can crowd out food sources native birds require.

Read more about habitat plantings in Garden for Wildlife from the National Wildlife Federation (nwf.org). Visit

nativeplantfinder.nwf.org/Plants and enter your zip code. You’ll discover native flowers, grasses, trees, and shrubs appropriate to your personal Camelot’s Worm-a-lot.

Another marvelous resource is the Audubon Society (Audubon.org), which suggests backyard habitat layers.

1. Large canopy trees (more Worm-a-lots) provide shelter, roosting spots, nest cavities, and food like nuts and insects;

2. Small trees and shrubs which produce berries, fruits, and nesting sites;

3. Perennials, annuals, and groundcovers are a rich habitat for pollinators;

4. Decaying mulch and leaves that provide homes for insects and a bird banquet.

And you can reach Highlands Plateau Audubon at P.O. Box 833, Highlands, N.C., 28741, call (678) 469-9827, or email rdyow1@gmail.com.

by Donna Rhodes

Blue Lining

Blue Lines whisper to anglers from all over the world. Blue Line Bar does the same thing.

A“blue line” is a term that has been created by anglers referring to streams and creeks small enough in size that when you look at a map it’s hard to find a name for it … hence the term “blue line.”

There are too many of them to count in our area. Just break out a map and take a look. These are spring-fed streams coming right out of the aquifer itself that stay cool even in the dogdays of summer. They hold water and aquatic insects year-round, which makes most of them home to wild trout.

For those fly anglers that like to avoid the crowds, and distractions of modern life, you can bet that most of these “blue lines” have very spotty cell service, and very primitive access points. Everything is to scale, including the size of the fish, but it’s one of the best ways an angler can interact directly with Mother

Nature. For those anglers that enjoy this type of experience, Western North Carolina provides more than a lifetime worth of exploring these types of streams.

Most interesting to trout fishers are the Blue Lines high in elevation (more than 3,000 ft). These streams are home to the Brook Trout – which isn’t actually a trout at all. Brook Trout are Arctic Char that came down with the glaciers millions of years ago when these mountains were made.

Brookies in these streams are the fish that have been here forever, the ones Harry Middleton wrote about in On the Spine of Time. Not just wild fish, but wild native fish. They’re mostly tiny and you may need to be in pretty good physical shape to get to them, but if it doesn’t stir your soul to its very foundation to fish for Brookies in these streams and to marvel at how they’ve survived the loggers, the erosion, the warming, and the poach-

ers, then maybe you need to trade your fly rods in for a set of golf clubs.

You might go as far as to say that Blue Lines define Western North Carolina as a unique destination for fly anglers all over the world.

In light of that, Brookings has opened up the Blue Line Bar in its new Cashiers location on the shoreline of Cashiers Lake at 88 Cashiers Lake Road.

It’s a place for folks that enjoy the fine sport of fly fishing to come and meet others with the same interest and tie some flies, tell fish stories, or simply take in the warm breeze off scenic Cashiers Lake.

We hope to see you there! Cheers!

by Matt Canter, Brookings

New Faces at HBF

A pair of hires brings a dynamic new energy to the activities buzzing around Highlands Biological Foundation during this busy season.

Julie Thomson

Jamie Creola

Exciting news is buzzing about the Highlands Biological Foundation (HBF) as the organization proudly introduces a dynamic duo of new staff:

Jamie Creola, HBF’s freshly appointed Executive Director, and Julie Thomson, HBF’s Education Specialist.

Their arrival in April has injected a burst of energy and enthusiasm into HBF’s mission of stimulating, promoting, and funding biological research and education.

Jamie Creola brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience, boasting over three decades of leadership across a spectrum of nonprofits including museums, zoos/aquariums, and universities around the country. Jamie’s passion for engaging diverse audiences and her knack for storytelling promise to breathe new life into HBF’s educational initiatives.

“I’m beyond thrilled to join the Foundation,” Jamie shares.

“Connecting people with nature and

inspiring them to appreciate, discover, and preserve our natural world is both passion and purpose.”

Joining Jamie is the equally remarkable Julie Thomson, whose eclectic background as an Environmental Educator, Naturalist, and Independent Scholar adds a vibrant hue to the team. Julie’s journey from Michigan to Massachusetts to the biodiversity-rich landscapes of western North Carolina has imbued her with a deep-seated love for the natural world.

“I’m excited to present educational programs at the Highlands Nature Center and to share Highlands’ natural wonders with the community through the Foundation’s ‘Nature on the Go!’ outreach programs,” said Julie.

John Mitchener, HBF’s Board President, couldn’t be more thrilled about the new additions to the organization.

“Jamie and Julie bring a perfect blend of expertise and passion to our organization,” Mitchener shares. “Their leadership

will undoubtedly steer HBF to even greater heights as we continue to make waves in environmental education and research support.”

As HBF welcomes Jamie and Julie with open arms, the organization is eager to embark on this journey together – a journey fueled by curiosity, connection, and a shared love for nature. With their guidance, HBF is poised to inspire and empower generations to come in the quest to preserve and cherish the wonders of Highlands-Cashiers Plateau and the natural world overall.

The Highlands Nature Center and the Highlands Botanical Garden are part of the Highlands Biological Station, a multi-campus center of Western Carolina University. Stay tuned to www.highlandsbiological.org for upcoming programs.

by Winter Gary,

Highlands Biological Foundation

Lowbrow Highbrow

For

Cover Artist Evan Jones, the process, the technique, the work is ever-evolving.

When you view Evan Jones’s paintings, you’ll come away with an everlasting imprint. His style exudes an inexplicable familiarity. Some say it’s his historic symbols, or his Southern icons. Others will cite his compelling compositions, or his quirkiness, or his design techniques. Many credit the mountain images he incorporates. Maybe it’s just all that – and more.

Evan can’t recall a day in his life when

colors weren’t racing through his ARTeries. He cut his artistic teeth in Cashiers where his family’s maternal side leaned toward the performing arts … his paternal side, visual arts. His Aunt Mary Jones, an oil painter, imbued his formative years with wildlife, wildflowers, majestic trees, and all things Cashiers-esque.

After high school, SCAD’s Atlanta campus called his name. Coincidentally,

another called his name – his wife-tobe, Katie.

Upon graduating in 2016, he was filled with creative Bam. He blended that with his background, interests, passions, knowledge, and skills into a unique style that continues to stand alone.

Evan paints most days.

He says, “I often wake up with ideas in the morning. When those fresh inspirations dawn, I get to work, spending a lot

of time developing an idea. Frequently the planning of a composition requires more effort than its completion. I often hang a canvas on the wall and work it a while, draw on it, erase, sketch, paint, paint over, re-do, on-and-on until the final touches kick in.”

Sometimes a painting happens instantly. Other times, it’s a marathon. But Evan works it until the piece satisfies his eye and soul, until his brush squeezes out its last flourish.

“For a long time I worked with acrylic,”

says Evan. “But now, I am exploring oils again. My subject and the way I painted was a tight fit with acrylics, but the creamy, tactile sensation of oils is pulling me back for more exploration. It feels like taking my art up a level.”

He jokes and says, “Some things are lowbrow, and that’s fun. But with oils, I’m raising my brow.”

Over time, who knows what kind of brow-ness Evan will invent?

He says, “Don’t hold me to any of this

interview. As much as I like to talk about my work, it changes every day. You can only be where you are at a certain time. It’s all part of the journey.”

Places you can see where Evan’s journey is currently bounding: evanjonesartist. com; Instagram @townhouseonmars; Whiteside Gallery, 1057 US-64, Cashiers; Re/Max Summit Properties, 45 Slab Town Road, Suite 8, Cashiers. by

Donna Rhodes

Evan Jones

photo by Maddy Michelle

That Which Satisfies Her Soul

A passion for the surprises of life and the vibrant works of fellow artists animates Leslie Jeffery’s dynamic works.

Leslie Jeffery

Like anyone who’s fortunate enough to have a vibrant, productive life, it’s hard to fold all their successes into one huge time sandwich. So when Leslie Jeffery joined the octogenarian team, she decided to celebrate by producing 80 paintings in her eightieth year. These weren’t thumbnails. These were ambitious, large works. The production equaled a substantial painting every 4.5 days.

How does one get inspiration for such a large body of work? Leslie’s Muse provided two sources: the work of Joan Mitchell and a prompt from a gallery show in Florida, The Great Artist’s Steal. The steal prompt: create works that are inspired by other artists; e.g., a cat preening in the center of a swirling Starry Night, a la Vincent van Gogh. When Leslie’s not painting, she’s gardening or working on the computer. The flowers she grows are often her subjects. Sometimes the plants/

flowers are realistic, sometimes abstract expressionism, sometimes just abstraction. Her canvases await as the inspiration unfolds.

Painting satisfies my soul.

Leslie says, “Painting satisfies my soul. My grandmother started painting in her 40s. Nothing gratified her more. She took me out when I was young and got me interested in the arts. She taught at the Art Institute, so the genes and the model she provided instilled my love for color, design, and aesthetics.”

If you want to see Leslie’s work before she returns to the Plateau the third week of May, visit Highlands Performing Arts Center, where some of her large works

are currently exhibited. 4118 Restaurant is displaying 15 pieces.

To see more, Leslie will be in The Bascom Members Show and the Art League’s Summer and Fall Showings. In the summer, some of those 80 works created last year will be on display in Leslie’s studio and other show spaces.

Visit LeslieJeffery.art to stay abreast of upcoming exhibits and see her recent work.

For the fun of it, let Leslie inspire you. Paint as many works as your age is. Then mix in a painting or two in the style of the great artist steal.

And, when focusing on age, Leslie reminds you of baseball player, Satchel Paige’s quotes: “How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you were?” And, “Age is a question of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, age won’t matter.”

by Donna Rhodes

Studio Barn’s New Addition

Rich in talent and armed with boundless creative energy, Ester Lipscomb joins The Bascom’s ceramic team.

As you arrive at The Bascom campus, your eyes are naturally drawn to the Studio Barn, a striking structure framed by the architecture of the Will Henry Stevens Bridge.

This iconic building serves as the heart of The Bascom’s ceramics program, where the rich tradition of Western North Carolina pottery thrives. Here, both novice and experienced potters gather daily, delighting in the tactile and malleable qualities of clay that serve as a gateway to creative practice.

For over 13 years, Frank Vickery has led The Bascom’s ceramics program, steadily expanding its programming and reputation. However, as demand grew beyond the capacity of existing instruction, it necessitated a search for an additional team member to work with Vickery in broadening The Bascom’s offerings.

Fortunately, the rich pottery tradition

in Western North Carolina has attracted a pool of skilled craftspeople to the area, facilitating the welcoming of a new artist educator to The Bascom’s ceramics program.

Enter Ester Lipscomb, a studio potter and ceramics educator based in Lakemont, Georgia. With a wealth of experience and a deep connection to the craft, Ester is no stranger to The Bascom. Having engaged with its exhibitions, workshops, and symposiums, she brings a unique perspective shaped by years of practice and educating creatives of all ages and abilities.

She is a graduate of the University of North Georgia with a degree in Art Education. Well-known throughout the region, Ester has a loyal following of students, clients, and community members.

The Bascom enthusiastically welcomes Ester Lipscomb to the team, eagerly anticipating the fresh opportunities she will bring to the Studio Barn. Whether

you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, there’s something for everyone to explore. Don’t miss out on the chance to work with Ester this spring and summer—visit The Bascom’s website for upcoming ceramics classes and more. by Billy Love, The Bascom

Painting a Rainforest

The busy (just-this-side-of-hectic) life of artist Jeanie Edwards has enriched her creative capabilities and given the world a showstopping mural in Missouri.

The Jeanie Edwards Fine Arts Gallery in Highlands is merely one of a myriad of Jeanie Edwards’ dreams that came true. It’s hard to tell if she’s super lucky or if she just works like crazy to make things happen.

Chances are, it’s a bit of both.

She lives by a quote her dad taught her: Never do something for a living you wouldn’t be willing to do on your day off.

That motto recently took her to the middle of United States in Branson, Missouri. It’s there, decades ago, a branch of her family tree settled. They acquired acres of land, interesting land, with formations of underground caves and portions of the Ozark range. A sizable family parcel became Silver Dollar City, which is still in the family. One of her cousins, Bruce Herschend, designed and established The Butterfly Palace along with several other attractions in the region.

The interior of the Butterfly Palace had a huge white dome.

It desperately needed a forest feel. Bruce asked Jeanie if she knew an artist who could paint a Costa Rican Rainforest on its walls. Jeanie gawked, laughed, and said, “Well, I highly recommend me!”

And so it was. Jeanie set about planning a gigantic mural, so huge, it required several long visits to complete. It’s about ¾ done now. Dedicating the months of January and half of February in 2025 will hopefully complete the project.

Jeanie and her art buddy/assistant Amanda Clark are a formidable painting duo.

Jeanie says, “I’ve known Amanda eight years. Since she earned her art degree from Western, she often helps manage my painting excursions. She paints the flora, fungi, and flowers and I paint the animals.”

Just to get an idea of how large this mural is and how much effort is going into it, here are some stats: Jeanie and Amanda’s

first painting session was 6.5 weeks, 5 days/week, 6-7 hours a day (per person) covering 107’x45’.

Their second session took 8 weeks, 6 days/week, 8 hours a day, 122’x40’. Their final session in 2025 will approximate an average of the first two. It’s tremendous, in so many ways.

When Jeanie asked Bruce if she were going too far with the color, texture, character, he said, “It’s just enough over the top!”

Jeanie lives at the top, where every workday is a happy day off. And as her cuz concurs, it’s not too toppish, it’s perfectly Jeanie.

Visit Jeanie’s website: jedwardsfineart.com; Amanda’s at amandaclarkart.com; and The Butterfly Palace at thebutterflypalace.com.

by Donna Rhodes Jeanie Edwards

HPAC’s Season’s Assortment

Highlands Performing Arts Center launches its 2024 Concert Season with the raucous sounds of MOJO and The Bayou Gypsies, Saturday May 4. Later in the month, there’s Madama Butterfly.

Mister Mojo

Saturday, May 4, kicks off the 2024 HPAC Concert Season with MOJO and The Bayou Gypsies. It’s all-original Mojo music in the Louisiana bayou traditions of pure Americana! “This bayou man, Mister Mojo, and his troupe of near-mad musical provocateurs, have poured Louisiana fire on audiences across the planet for over a quarter century. Few performers can lift an audience like Mojo, star of the Bayou Gypsies. None match the unbridled fever this charismatic singer/accordionist brings to the stage.” –Syndicated News Network

Saturday, May 11 brings the final production of the MET Opera’s 2023-24 Live on Screen season with Madama Butterfly by Puccini. In her Met debut, Asmik Grigorian tackles the demanding role of Cio-Cio-San, the trusting geisha at the heart of Puccini’s tragedy. Tenor Jonathan Tetelman is the callous American naval officer Pinkerton whose

betrayal destroys her. Mezzo-soprano Elizabeth DeShong is the steadfast maid Suzuki, and baritone Lucas Meachem is the American consul Sharpless. Acclaimed maestro Xian Zhang makes her Met debut conducting Anthony Minghella’s vivid production.

Madama Butterfly begins at 12:55 P.M. with a pre-opera discussion at 12:30 P.M.

June Preview:

National Theatre presents Fleabag

written and performed by Phoebe WallerBridge. Saturday, June 8, 1:00 P.M.

HPAC presents Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock & Roll. A live concert on the Main Stage, Saturday, June 29, at 6:30 P.M.

Tickets are available at HighlandsPerformingArts.com.

by

Mary Adair Trumbly, Highlands Performing Arts Center

Madama Butterfly

Music, Food, and Conversation

A full slate of Salons and Feasts brings the Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival’s music far beyond the confines of its performance venues. For tickets and more information, call the festival at (828) 526-9060.

For many people, talking about the Plateau and its allure takes on a cultural dimension.

So much of its charm – beyond the lush beauty and greenery, the magic of the mountains – is tied to culture. Imbued in the way of life of Highlands and Cashiers and a major part of the flourishing artistic landscape is the Highlands Cashiers Chamber Music Festival.

Now in its 43rd season, HCCMF is one of the oldest and most prestigious summer music festivals in the United States.

A most delightful way to experience the rich artistry of the festival, is the Feasts and Salons series – musical capsules of the performers and the 2024 season. Much like the famous salons of late 19th century Paris, these intimate gatherings are a chance to engage with festival artists in private homes.

What distinguishes the “feasts” series is the opportunity for attendees to discuss the music with concert performers and illicit feedback while enjoying food and beverages.

As Artistic Director of 24 years William Ransom explains, “Whenever an artist talks about the music they’re going to perform, people’s minds open and can better absorb and enjoy what they will hear later.”

Four feasts are scheduled and except for the initial feast, guests join the artist in conversation rather than at concert. All feasts are $150 per person:

On June 26 – 6:00 P.M.: Gifted pianist Julie Cocheron whose recent collaborations have included performances

William Ransom Sara Sant ’Ambrogio

The Viano Quartet Julie Coucheron

with Elton John and the Steve Miller Band performs in an evening entitled “Champagne and Chopin.” Hosts: Greg and Mary Thompson.

July 5 – 6:00 P.M .: “Festive Feast in Artists’ Home” with American conductor and violinist, and host of the PBS TV series – Scott Yoo. Hosts: Sallie and Pat Taylor.

July 21 – 7:00 P.M.: “Pianist & View Extraordinaire” with Filipino-American pianist Victor Asuncion, who’s been hailed by The Washington Post for his “poised and imaginative playing.” Hosts: Judy and Louis Freeman.

July 23 – 7:00 P.M.: “Grammy Winner Zuill Bailey,” one of the world’s premier

cellists, Bailey will entertain guests at the residence of hosts Alfred Kennedy, and Bill Kenny.

Mingling music, food and conversation is the essence and delight of the “salon” series. Included are short performances by festival artists, followed by light hors d’oeuvres and drinks. The two-hour events begin at 5:00 P.M. and are $80 per person.

June 28: “Ransom Wows …Again!” with Rhapsody in Blue Pianist and Festival Artistic Director William Ransom at the home of hosts Sherri and Steve Ozcomert.

July 12: “The Magnificent Ms. Sara!” with Grammy Award-winning American

Cellist Sara Sant ‘Ambrogio. Hosts: Karen and Jim McArdle.

July 26: “Dynamic Duo Encore” – the dazzling and flawless violinist Chee-Yun performs with William Ransom. Hosts: Olivia and Bob Holt

August 2: “The Viano – Up Close!” Performance by the Canadian American string quartet, The Viano Quartet. Hosts: Teri Dolci, Sandra Norton, Suzette, and Michael Oleksyk. by Marlene Osteen

Zuill Bailey

Victor Asuncion

Chee Yun Scott Yoo Scan to learn more.

Highlands’ Own Teen Angels

A pair of seasoned performers will carry the role of Teen Angel in Mountain Theatre Company’s production of Grease , slated for June 5-22.

Mountain Theatre Company has found its Teen Angels for their upcoming summer production of Grease. Yes, that’s Angels, plural! Scott Daniel and Emanuel Carrero will each make a cameo appearance performing the iconic song, “Beauty School Dropout,” in the show which opens on June 5.

Daniel and Carrero moved to the Highlands area in 2021 and have become local favorites on the Mountain Theatre Company stage. Audiences have come to know Daniel, MTC’s Executive Artistic Director, from his energetic curtain speeches before most performances. He was last seen on stage in MTC’s 2021 limited run engagement of Scott & Patti’s Holiday Spectacular, but this will mark his MTC debut in a mainstage season. Daniel will also serve as the

director for this production of Grease.

Local audiences know Carrero from his star-making role of Frankie Valli in both the 2022 and 2023 MTC productions of Jersey Boys. Audiences fell in love with his pure falsetto and electrifying performance. He has also been seen on the MTC stage in Home for the Holidays (2022 and 2023) and Music in Motion (2021). Carrero also serves on MTC’s admin team as Company Manager.

Daniel and Carrero will perform the role in repertory, with each actor appearing in select performances. A performance schedule will be listed on the show’s webpage for fans who want to make sure to see each actor’s portrayal of the iconic role.

“Having been in the audition rooms and curating the talent for this show, I know firsthand what remarkable talents this cast holds,” says Daniel. “I am very

excited to perform on stage with this amazing group of performers. Highlands is going to be blown away by the triplethreat talent of this whole cast.” Carrero notes that he “can’t wait to return to the MTC stage where the Highlands audience has been so enthusiastic.” He added, “I just hope I don’t fall down that massive staircase!”

Grease will run June 5 – 22 this summer, kicking off Mountain Theatre Company’s 2024 Season at the Highlands Performing Arts Center, where they are the resident professional theatre company.

For tickets and more information about Mountain Theatre Company’s production of Grease, visit mountaintheatre.com. by Lindsay Garner Hostetler, Director of Marketing and Outreach, Mountain Theatre Company

Scott Daniel and Emanuel Carrero

Page Webster,Designer & Painter

Page Webster’s beguiling creations are a product of a lifetime of study and careful observation.

Page Webster

The May meeting of the Art League of Highlands-Cashiers will be held on the Bascom terrace Monday, May 20, at 5:00 P.M., following a wine reception at 4:30 P.M.

The featured speaker is Michele (Page) Webster. Ms. Webster is an award-winning decorator, designer and visual artist and is listed as an Honored Member of Marquis’ Who’s Who in America 2023. Always creative, from an early age she imagined herself to be a painter. Her professional career, however, began in different, but not entirely unrelated fields. Having studied Psychology and Design at Miami Dade College with additional coursework at North Carolina Wesleyan University, she first started as an interior designer. She then went into event planning and home staging for the real estate market.

During those years, she was a designer and artist for Custom Creations in Tallahassee, Florida, as well as

taking free-lance assignments. She demonstrated further creativity by designing and installing an Italian-style garden before finally yielding to her desire to concentrate on the visual arts, an aspiration she had since childhood. She believes that the same elements of design are present in interior design, landscape design, party planning or the visual arts, those being scale, progression, texture, color, and lighting. She has applied all those elements over the past 35 years to her design work and continues to apply them to her paintings. Her paintings are very often inspired by nature.

She says, “I try to use nature to stir the emotion and remind us of the intrinsic beauty that surrounds us.” Her work is represented by Fine Art by Page, Tallahassee, Florida; Native Sounds of Santa Fe, New Mexico; and locally, by Bardo Style, at 468 Main Street in Highlands.

When visiting her website, pagetheartist. com, one finds a variety of subject matter in her paintings, many in vibrant colors. The site includes separate sections of Southwestern Art and Religious Art. She incorporates holy soil from New Mexico’s El Santuario de Chimayo into the pigments of paintings done for sacred purposes, which will be the subject of her presentation.

Please join us for this free reception and presentation. Visit artleaguehighlandscashiers.com for more information about the Art League.

by

Zach Claxton, Highlands-Cashiers Art League

Scan to learn more.

Sparking Imagination

A nationally-recognized fantasy author and his family have reconnected with the landscape that captured his imagination.

Iwas raised by a career infantryman in the US Army, and long road trips were enlivened with lectures about Napoleon’s cataclysmic invasion of Russia and the strange appearance of a comet that heralded William the Conqueror’s victory at the Battle of Hastings, and the stationing of Roman legionnaires at odd outposts of the Empire.

Dad never, ever, talked about his experiences in the Second World War or the Korean Conflict or Vietnam, but he never tired of talking about strategy, and the unpredictable turns of history, and the supreme importance of maintaining esprit de corps.

That’s why I almost immediately fell in love with The Stiger Chronicles, a vast military fantasy series by Marc Alan Edelheit.

At first glance, the first book in the series, Stiger’s Tigers, is not so different from grimdark fantasies like The Black Company by Glen Cook or George RR Martin’s frustratingly incomplete Song of Ice and Fire. It features astonishingly complex worldbuilding and periodic bursts of violence and mayhem. There are armies of faux Roman Legionnaires whose ranks are leavened with elves and holy men just this side of Gandolf the Grey.

Yet what distinguishes Edelheit’s tales from their blood-soaked genre-mates are his deftly portrayed threedimensional characters and their fealty to the protagonist, Captain Ben Stiger.

I’m in the midst of the third book, The Tiger’s Fate, and we’re following Stiger and his company in a series of battles against an implacable empire backstopped by demi-gods and dark magic. Though Stiger is young and relatively inexperienced, he’s learning that command is best exercised when it’s built upon a level of respect. And there are elements of grief and the excruciating demands that are placed upon his weary shoulders. This is

Marc and Elizabeth Edelheit

elevated military fantasy, and it’s all the richer for its emotional wisdom.

Enraptured as I am by this series, I’m equally delighted that its creator and his family have laid down foundations right here on the Plateau.

Edelheit’s childhood adventures amidst the landscapes of the Plateau have not only shaped a lifelong bond with these tranquil mountains but also fueled a remarkable career in literature.

Marc’s narrative begins during his youth. His parents, captivated by the allure of Highlands, built a vacation home in the early ‘80s. The wilderness of cascading waterfalls, lakes, and trails became the backdrop for both his real and imagined adventures.

These formative experiences were not

just pivotal in nurturing Marc’s love for nature, but also in igniting his passion for storytelling.

Amidst the inspiration drawn from these mountains, Marc embarked on an extraordinary literary journey. In 2015, he published his first fantasy novel, marking the beginnings of what would become a highly successful writing career (now up to 24 novels).

The pandemic era brought a reflective pause to Marc’s busy life, leading him and his family – wife Elizabeth and their three daughters – back to the Western North Carolina mountains. What started as a pandemic retreat soon evolved into a permanent relocation. The awe-inspiring vistas and the tranquil ambiance of the area rekindled in Marc a desire to merge his creative

realm with the peaceful life these mountains offered.

The Edelheit family continues to weave their story into the fabric of this community. For Marc, the move has been a harmonious blend of personal fulfillment and creative resurgence. Surrounded by nature’s muse and a supportive community, he finds both a sanctuary for his family and an inexhaustible wellspring of inspiration for his writing.

(How inspiring? During the writing of this story, Marc revealed a pair of just-signed contracts – a fantasy trilogy with Aethon books and a sci-fi trilogy with Bookouture, a division of Hachette.)

by Luke Osteen

DINING Pages 124-143

Angela Lundy and Kristyn Smith

The Family Legacy Continues

With

a nod to Rosewood Market’s legacy, new owners Kristyn Smith and Angela Lundy take the reins.

Tim Lundy and his Rosewood Market were big players in the Plateau social scene, ever since he bought the Market and catering business in 1999. Part of that fame was a result of Tim’s effervescent personality and his showman’s instincts for staging just the right event. Part of it was the Market’s ever-changing and always fresh menu, a delicious blend of old favorites and new sensations.

When Tim passed away last year, local foodies (this writer included) hoped Rosewood Market could maintain that easy charm and certain seduction of the palate. Well, no need to fret – Rosewood Market is now owned by Tim’s daughter Kristyn and his sister Angela.

Kristyn learned every aspect of the restaurant/catering business from her father, and Angela has always been in

the kitchen, ensuring that everything is running smoothly.

“I have been with Rosewood all of these years working closely with Tim and have learned a lot under his direction,” says Angela.

“As soon as I was old enough, I began working in Rosewood and helping to set up events,” says Kristyn. “Once I graduated high school, I started working and leading catered events. I even worked for several years as our dedicated pastry chef but stepped away to be a full-time homeschool mom.”

I saw all this up close when I worked at a few of their catered events in the early 2000s.

Tim was clearly the majordomo at these affairs – meticulous in their planning and execution, somehow managing to be everywhere, yet never

breaking into a sweat.

And sure enough, Angela would be working in the kitchen, like one of those frantic plate spinners from the old Ed Sullivan Show, smiling and somehow making it all look easy.

“Tim was out in front, but I was the one who kept everything organized,” says Angela. “I started working with him in 1983 – I was the sous chef at his restaurant in Mobile, Alabama. When he moved to Atlanta to start his catering and event business, I went to work for General Electric. He asked me to come up here and be his kitchen manager and I came here in May 2000.”

That close-knit family connection has always been at the heart of Rosewood Market’s deep appeal.

“My grandfather worked with us after retiring from his 39-year career as a car

salesman in 2000 and moved in with Angie that year,” says Kristyn. “He stayed on staff until he passed away in 2012. We have also employed a multitude of cousins/nieces and nephews, my husband, my mother, my son. We hired a new front-of-house gal last season and she said ‘I like working here. It’s like a big family,’ which is exactly how we want our employees and our customers to feel.”

(I can attest to that – in a visit I made three years ago, I noted how customers had started waiting outside 30 minutes before the place opened so that they could snag that famous fried chicken before it vanished. And then, once the doors opened, the atmosphere was boisterous and warm and a delight from both sides of the counter.)

So see, though it has new owners, Angela and Kristyn are devoted to maintaining that warm connection Rosewood Market has cultivated over the last 24 years.

And that devotion has translated to the menu, too.

“We want our customers to eat the way we eat,” says Kristyn. “And my husband would tell you that we eat exceptionally well.

“We would like to grow our customer base, but we’ll never forget our loyal customers. One of the changes that we’ve instituted has been met enthusiastically by both has been offering hot lunch. Our regulars have pounced on this and it’s attracted a new set of patrons.”

“Another fun addition to our repertoire is picnic basket rentals. I am currently in the process of sourcing all the needed accoutrements for the most fantastic outdoor adventures. They will be totally customizable.”

Speaking of new directions, Rosewood Market is partnering with a local venue (Satolah Creek Farm) and a local North Carolina Meadery (Honeygirl out of Durham) on May 19 and offering a Mead & Food Tasting. It’ll feature five varieties of mead paired with five small plates of food.

“Lastly, when it comes to catering, we are

offering anything from a private chef for a party of two on up to a catered event for 150,” says Kristyn

Oh, and I mentioned Rosewood Market’s now legendary fried chicken earlier – Angela still makes it in small batches on Saturdays (and Wednesdays, too, after Memorial Day). Your best gambit is to order your chicken ahead of time to make sure you’re not disappointed if you get there too late on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Rosewood Market is open Wednesday through Saturday and is located at 117 Franklin Road in Highlands (adjoining the Citgo Station). You can stop in and pick up something for a meal or a snack; or you can call ahead at (828) 526-0383 to order something special to go, or to set up a catered event. You can also contact them through Instagram @rosewood.market. highlands; rosewoodmarketnc.com, or email rosewoodgourmet@gmail.com.

by Luke Osteen

A Sipof Spring

Each of these pedigreed labels contain a flavor of the season.

Domaine de Trotereau Quincy and Tablas Creek Vineyards Patelin de Tablas Blanc

Springtime on the porch and wine in tall glasses; Muscadet with oysters and Albarino with mussels; Friends laughing and soft mountain breezes. Quincy with ceviche and white Rhone with cheeses; A Chenin Blanc that always pleases.

These are a few of my favorite things – wines that hum of time and place, in every glass a sip of spring.

In the glow of a perfect springtime evening the Nanclares Prieto Dandelion Albarino is a round and polished companion to the stories of life told among friends. A wine that tells tales of its births in Galicia, Spain, with tastes of salt, tantalizing with acidity, as bold and vibrant as its origins

In the stillness of twilight, the Domaine de la Pépière Muscadet wafts softly with a bouquet of ripe pear, lemon, herbs and wildflowers, a hint of iodine and earth. A companion to the dusk and friendly chatter, the wine holds sway with a mouth-watering

salty finish and traces of licorice.

In the Domaine de Trotereau Quincy, we find no reticence. A Sauvignon Blanc light and crisp; in its glass a taste of fresh minerals stone and gravel. A light-bodied flavorful personality that tells of fresh air, and sunshine – a wine that dances on the tongue.

Chenin Blanc in hues of gold. The Pascal Janvier Jasnier Cuve du Silex shimmers with a touch of quince and orange and cherry. From every pour, a harmony of sweet and saline, a story of weather and vine and soil. A trance-inducing narrative of the history and vineyards of the Centre Loire in France.

In the heart of central California, in San Luis Obispo in the town of Paso Robles, barrels of the Tablas Creek Patelin de Tablas Blanc do rest. Holding a wine in their wooden chest with complexities that invite and intrigue – a blend of Rhone varietals. On the tongue the journey from vineyard to lips exposed, silky and

seamless with a long latent finish. Details of wines discussed:

Nanclares y Prieto ‘Dandelion’: variety –Albarino. Region: Rias Baixas, Galicia, Spain. Average price: $30

Domaine de la Pépière Muscadet, Sur Lie, ‘La Pepie’: variety – Melon de Bourgogne. Region: Muscadet Sevre et Maine, Loire, France. Average price: $19

Domaine de Trotereau Quincy: variety –Sauvignon Blanc, Region: Quincy, Loire, France. Average price: $28.

Pascal Janvier Jasnieres Cuvee du Silex: variety – Chenin Blanc, Region: Centre Loire, France. Average price: $26.

Tablas Creek Vineyards Patelin de Tablas Blanc: variety – Proprietary blend (Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Marsanne, Roussanne) Region: San Luis Obispo County, Paso Robles, California. Average price: $28

by Marlene Osteen / photo by Susan Renfro

Low CountryShrimp Boil

The Low Country Shrimp Boil, set for June 15 at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, is a delicious boost to the park’s continuing operation. “Doors” open at 5:00 P.M. and dinner is at 6:00 P.M. Tickets are available at The Dry Sink and foundersparkhighlands. org.

Situated in the center of Highlands, Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park is a serene refuge from the hustle-bustle of nearby Main Street.

Sixteen years in the making, and once the locale of the town post office, the downtown park is now the center of the city’s social life. Thanks to the persistence of a local committee and planning and fundraising by more than 300 contributors, the land was transformed into what is now a verdant oasis and has become one of the town’s most popular attractions. Since its opening in 2016, the park has served as an important nucleus for fund raising events and music concerts and a venue for gatherings from winter ice skating to arts and crafts fairs, and seasonal farmers markets.

And every summer, Kelsey-Hutchison sets the stage for one of the year’s most eagerly anticipated activities – the Low Country Shrimp Boil. Hosted by Friends

of Founders Park and regarded by many a local as one of the great communal eating experiences of the Highlands summer, the Low Country Shrimp Boil returns to Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on June 15.

For those who appreciate the unique amalgamation of culinary tradition, the comradery of friends and communing with nature, there can be no more enjoyable way to spend an evening. And of course, there’s the food – prepared by Highlands chef Marty Rosenfield. In the pantheon of great American seafood boilers, there is no one more devoted to the task than Rosenfield who has a passion for sourcing the best ingredients and making them sing. He is well known for the artfulness he brings the preparation of the Lowcountry Boil - a combination of zesty shrimp, sweet corn on the cob, smoked sausages, and creamy potatoes, simmered in a spicy broth. It is spectacularly delicious.

Though the park needs sponsors and welcomes and accepts donations above the ticket price, the “Boil” is the park’s only fundraiser of the year.

Bill Edwards, Event Coordinator, said, “The funds raised by the Shrimp Boil finance park projects, and all proceeds are used for beautification of the park and every net dollar is used for that purpose.” The ticket includes the Shrimp Boil, grilled vegetables, dessert, tea and three tickets for beer or wine. The event is tented and will be held rain or shine. Music this year is by the Back Porch Orchestra.

“Bring a chair, use one of our take-out boxes and enjoy the band,” says Edwards.

by Donna Rhodes

Scan to learn more.

JT Fields

The Birth of Santo Cuviso

Highlander JT Fields’ latest spirited venture takes him into the storied agave fields of Northern Mexico.

The Santo Cuviso Bacanora website greets visitors with the slogan “Turning Saints into Sinners since 1756,” a phrase that aptly reflects former Mountain Fresh Grocery owner, JT Fields’ personal evolution from wine enthusiast to agave spirits entrepreneur.

Perhaps I should start at the beginning.

The story begins two decades ago, when Fields and his now-husband Glenn Murer first visited San Miguel de Allende – a UNESCO Heritage site in the mountains of Mexico about 170 miles north of Mexico City. The colonial town dates back to the 16th century and still bears traces of Spanish, Creole, and Native

American Culture, along with baroque architecture, and romantic cobblestone lanes. Fields and Murer were captivated by all of it.

But plans to return to San Miguel, to purchase a home there, were sidelined when “a little thing called Mountain Fresh Grocery got in the way,” as Fields humorously puts it.

Prior to 2019, Fields was the general manager at Mountain Fresh Grocery in Highlands for over a dozen years. While he oversaw many of the store’s operations, it was the wine department (where I worked for over four years) that truly ignited his passion.

Who among us doesn’t recall the enthusiasm with which Fields shared his endorsement about a particular bottle of wine? Clearly wine was his world.

Fifteen years after their initial journey, JT Fields and Glenn Murer finally returned to San Miguel de Allende. A few years later, following the sale of Mountain Fresh, they purchased a home in the UNESCO world heritage zone. It took a skilled team of designers, architects, and workers two years to restore the residence. After finishing the restoration, they were excited to expand their investment in Mexico by partnering with Santo Cuviso.

Fields admits that his first inclination

was to consider that “Investing in a liquor company is akin to financing a Broadway play – not the most rational decision.”

But after attending a mezcal event in Tucson and meeting the partners, he became excited by the project. Today he serves on the company’s board of directors to which he brings his wine sensibilities. For Fields, the allure of artisanal agave spirits lies in their ability, much like wine, to reflect the unique terroir of their origin.

Santo Cuviso, which loosely translates as “the holy Mezcal” produces an agave spirit called Bacanora. It has been produced in Sonora in northwestern Mexico for hundreds of years, distilled from the juice of a type of wild Pacific agave. Historically, Bacanora was considered a mezcal. As I learned, both

tequila and mezcal — tequila’s older, smokier cousin — are made from agave, a breed of succulent that has been grown and distilled in Mexico for centuries. But agave is also the root material of many other indigenous Mexican spirits. JT explained that Bacanora, which is made just like mezcal, is less smoky, more restrained with a brighter fresher taste.

The Santo Cuviso Bacanoras – of which there are three imported into North Carolina – are all wild-harvested and distilled by hand on a 17,000-acre ranch without electricity.

“Unlike most mezcals, this product is harvested on our land, cooked on our land, fermented on our land, distilled in our distillery and bottled on our land,” said Fields.

Among the Bacanoras available at

Highlands ABC store are the Santo Cuviso Blanco, characterized by its dry, complex, slightly smoky, and naturally sweet profile with a kick of pepper and an earthy finish. The Santo Cuviso Lechuguilla boasts flavors of apple, oak wood, dried mint, and vanilla, with a bouquet reminiscent of dry earth and bitter chocolate.

Santo Cuviso is sold in 14 countries worldwide, with an annual production of 7500 bottles. If you’d like to learn more, visit Santocuviso.com.

by Marlene Osteen

Renfro

photos by Susan

A James Beard Best Chef

Legendary Chef Terry Koval will unveil an astonishing menu at The Farm at Old Edwards’ Celebration Dinner, slated for May 5.

Terry Koval

One of the joys of life on the Plateau is The Farm at Old Edwards, where the chance to immerse yourself in an evening that promises to redefine your culinary mindset is always within reach. Continuously pushing boundaries to impress, the variety and excellence of food offerings here are ever-expanding.

One such standout event is the May celebration dinner on Sunday, May 5, featuring James Beard Best Chef Southeast, Terry Koval from Decatur’s acclaimed restaurant, The Deer and The Dove.

Had things turned out differently, Koval would today be sashaying across a skatepark rather than a restaurant kitchen. At 15 he left home and high school and moved to California in hopes of making it big as a professional skateboarder. When the skateboarding didn’t stick, he turned his focus to the food scene and the farmers he had observed there.

Deciding to hang up his board and pick

up a chef’s knife, he moved back to Atlanta, earning his culinary stripes at Atlanta’s’ famed Canoe Restaurant, where he eventually worked his way up to Executive Sous Chef. He spent the next two decades working in Atlanta landmarks, Farm Burger, and Wrecking Bar Brewpub, earning a reputation for his well thought out dishes featuring seasonal, and local ingredients.

By 2019, Koval was ready for his own place. In June of that year, he and his wife Jenn opened The Deer and The Dove and the adjacent café B-Side just off Decatur Square.

Koval said the venture, “is an opportunity to focus on farmer relationships and local sourcing to support my vision of a scratch kitchen built on slow food.”

Indeed, Koval has become a prime mover in the Atlanta, “slow food movement;” well-known for the high wattage dishes he creates using farm driven and foraged ingredients.

The menu leans rustic New American with small plates and entrees cooked in a wood burning oven.

“The idea was taking the outside and cooking inside. We built an open hearth for Porchetta, meats, vegetables, and hanging the trout,” said Koval. On the well thought out menu are plates of beef, pork, and trout from regional and nearby cattle and pig farms and game meat entrées, like crispy rabbit legs fried in fermented buttermilk, duck sausage roulade and plates of venison.

Now, nearly five years since opening The Deer and The Dove is set to soon open Fawn, Decatur’s first wine and amaro bar. Expect small bites like charcuterie and wines from volcanic regions around the world.

To book the Terry Koval dinner online, visit: OldEdwardsHospitality.com/ ChefDinners.

by Marlene Osteen

Bite Into Bliss

For one delirious, delicious week, Southern Jackson County is Hamburger Heaven – through May 5. Pick up a free Hamburger Passport at the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce – visit the participating establishments and discover your inner carnivore.

Here’s one theory. Imagine you’re in fourth-century Rome. A compelling aroma pulls you into a vendor’s stall. You bargain for a burger, well, the precursor of today’s hamburger. It’s a baked beef patty mixed with pine kernels, black and green pepper, and white wine, a feast for any Caesar. The flavor combinations and the hint of wine make for a killer rissole of ground round – Holy McCow! You’ve discovered the world’s first burger.

Now, fast-forward 17 centuries to May. Cashiers is staging its second annual Burger Week, April 29 through May 5. The burgers all over the mountainside guarantee to be amazing. Check out the impressive restaurants that will compete. Caesar can’t hold a Roman candle to the Cashiers burger extravaganzas.

How does Cashiers Burger Week work?

Each participating restaurant will create a unique burger to highlight during the week. Burger Tasters will pick up a free

Burger Week Passport at the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce, present their passport when they order a burger and the participating restaurant will stamp the passport.

Participants must receive stamps from three different restaurants to be eligible to cast a vote for Favorite Burger and Most Creative and to be entered to win prizes from local sponsors and participating restaurants.

If five stamps or more are collected, that qualifies for two opportunity drawings for prizes. Winners will be announced at the Cashiers Burger Week Wrap up Party to be held at Slopeside Tavern in Sapphire on May 14 starting at 5:00 P.M. The Wrap Up Party will include live music and lots of fun celebrating the winners.

Last year’s winners for Favorite Burger were First Place, Native Prime Provisions; Second Place, Hidden Valley Tavern; Third Place, a tie between

Slopeside Tavern and Happ’s Place Barn & Grill. The winners of Most Creative Burger were First Place, a tie between Slopeside Tavern and Whiteside Brewing; Second Place, The Ugly Dog-Cashiers; and Third Place, Native Prime Provisions.

Participants and sponsors for this year’s culinary competition include Chile Loco, Elevated Kitchen, El Manzanillo Mexican Restaurant, Grand Olde Station Food Tuck, Happs Place Bar & Grill, Hidden Valley Tavern, Native Prime Provisions, Slopeside Tavern, The Fix Restaurant & Bar, The Local (in Glenville), The Zookeeper Bistro, and Whiteside Brewing Company.

Visit cashiersburgerweek.com/faqs for more details where you and fantastic flavors can meet (or meat).

by Donna Rhodes

Crafting a Taco

Highlands Smokehouse’s Bryan Lewis elevates the humble taco into the culinary stratosphere.

Is there a culinary delicacy more universally beloved than the taco?

One need only taste the lamb barbacoa taco made by Highlands Smokehouse owner Bryan Lewis to understand its unmatched appeal.

Intensely flavorful, it’s the paradigm of taco craftsmanship. Fat bundles of hot and tasty lamb folded inside a warm tortilla and served with a mint chimichurri sauce to add intrigue and excitement – they are seriously mind expanding.

In Mexico, barbacoa is a style of slow cooking large cuts of meat. In the version that follows, leg of lamb is seared,

and oven roasted at a low temperature in a sauce made from chipotle peppers, garlic, and orange juice, until the meat is so tender it easily shreds.

Lewis suggests pairing the tacos with the Santo Cuviso Blanco Bacanora, a venture owned in part by his friend J.T. Fields. (Note: see the companion article on page 128 in this issue about Santo Cuviso and Fields). Crystal clear, with a delicately earthy bouquet, the Blanco Bacanora has a subtle smokiness and smooth, almost liqueur-like sweetness and hint of pepper that makes it an excellent companion for the gamy barbacoa.

Lewis says, “Celebrate spring with these flavorful lamb barbacoa

tacos. The tender lamb, zesty mint chimichurri, and creamy avocado make a delicious combination for a festive gathering – and an ideal centerpiece for a Cinco de Mayo party.”

Lamb Barbacoa Taco Serves 10

Ingredients

1 boneless butterflied leg of lamb, about 4 pounds, well-trimmed

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon cumin

Steven Julka and Bryan Lewis

2 teaspoons salt

2 tablespoons lard or vegetable oil

1 cup orange juice

1 large onion sliced thinly.

2 canned chipotle chiles en adobo, minced plus 2 tablespoons sauce.

4 garlic cloves, minced.

Warm corn or flour tortillas, pickled red onions, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado and mint chimichurri for serving.

Directions

1. Pat lamb dry with paper towels.

2. In a bowl combine onion powder, dried oregano, garlic powder, paprika, cumin and salt. Rub mixture all over lamb and Cover with plastic wrap. Let lamb marinate for at least 1 hour or, even better, overnight in the refrigerator.

3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Heat lard or oil in a Dutch oven over high heat until shimmering. Cook lamb, turning occasionally, until well-browned on all sides, about 8 minutes total. Remove lamb and set aside.

4. To the now empty pan, add orange juice, onion chipotle peppers, adobo sauce and garlic and bring to a simmer. Return the meat and any accumulated juices to the pan, and cover with the lid. Slide the pot into the preheated oven.

5. Cook until the meat is fork tender –about 3 to 3 ½ hours. When the meat is done, set aside until cool enough to handle, then tear into large shreds, reserving the remaining concentrated pan juices and skimming the fat.

6. Serve barbacoa with warm tortillas, pickled red onions, fresh cilantro,

avocado and mint chimichurri.

Mint Chimichurri

Ingredients

1 cup parsley, chopped.

1 cup mint chopped.

½ cup cilantro, chopped

1 garlic clove, minced.

½ cup olive oil

2 tablespoons champagne vinegar

1 teaspoon salt

½ - 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Directions Mix parsley, mint, cilantro, garlic in a bowl with oil and vinegar. Season with red pepper flakes, and salt until it has some kick – or to taste. Serve with the lamb barbacoa tacos.

by Marlene Osteen / photos by Mary Gillan

Plateau Dining Guide

Restaurants of the Highlands Cashiers Plateau

SAPPHIRE/TOXAWAY AREA RESTAURANTS

CASHIERS, NC

Buck’s Coffee Cafe - (828) 743-9997

Chile Loco - (828) 743-1160

Cornucopia Restaurant - (828) 743-3750

El Manzanillo - (828) 743-5522

On the Side BBQ - (828) 743-4334

Native Prime Provisions (828) 743-3743

Subway - (828) 743-1300

Ugly Dog - (828) 743-3000

Whiteside Brewing Company - (828) 743-6000

GLENVILLE, NC

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

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 Tavern - (828) 526-9002

Madison’s Restaurant - (828) 787-2525

Mountain Fresh - (828) 526-2400

The Ruffed Grouse - (828) 526-2590

The 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

Mica’s Restaurant - (828) 743-5740

Panthertown Cafe - (828) 862-3663

Sapphire Mountain Brewing Company - (828) 743-0220

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 Prime Property Rentals - (828) 743-3482

HIGHLANDS, NC

200 Main - (855) 271-2809

Berkshire Realty Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-1717

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

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

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

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 - (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

Annawear Fashion High

On everyone’s list of “one of the first places to visit again,” is Annawear, located on Main Street in the Galax Movie Theatre building. Owner Anna Herz clearly has retail in her blood. Since its inception in 1986, Annawear has continually evolved, offering a carefully curated selection that caters to every shopper’s taste and lifestyle. From trendy tops and dresses at affordable prices to sought after designers, the offers are meticulously curated to delight customers. The store has become a saving grace for many, thanks to its great selections and reasonable pricing. Whimsical items from Free People and tee-shirts from Michael Stars are among the stylish and fanciful items you’ll find here. Anna’s goal, along with store manager Tracy Roman and social media manager Katie Herz – is to create a fun and relaxing shopping environment. Customers often remark that visiting the store feels more like a lively community gathering.

Annawear

355 Main St, Highlands (828) 526-4660

See more from Annawear at the High Style Fashion Show, Saturday,May 18, 10:0011:00 A.M. at Town Square.

Leah Grace Craig (left) is wearing dress by Free People, boots by Miracle Miles, sunglasses by Z Supply, and jewelry by Sahira.

Ava Schmitt (right) is wearing top by Free People, jeans by Mother Denim, shoes by Steve Madden, sunglasses by Z Supply, and jewelry by Sahira.

Camp Merrie Woode | Cashiers, NC

photos by Susan Renfro and Mary Gillan

Elena’s Fashion High

There are so many things to love about Elena’s – from the versatility of its lineup of activewear offerings – including outfits for golf, tennis, yoga and pickleball – to its commitment to providing women of all ages, sizes, and shapes with the widest range of fashion options. Their motto, “Great brands, great prices and great service” resonates with shoppers. Visitors love the meticulously curated store and appreciate the plethora of advice from the knowledgeable sales crew, who help guide their decisions. They assist in selecting items that not only fit well but also consider factors like material, durability, and versatility. Also to be discovered at Elena’s, are all the finest golf accessories for pros and beginners alike. Here you’ll find the best golf gloves, Footjoy golf shoes, and socks to enhance your game, along with the top golf bags. Elena’s truly offers a one-stop shopping experience for fashion-forward active women and golf enthusiasts alike.

Elena’s 381 Main St, Highlands (828) 533-9954

See more from Elena’s at the High Style Fashion Show, Saturday, May 18, 10 - 11 A.M. at Town Square.

Leah Grace Craig (left) is wearing skirt and sweater by The Bubble, shirt by Golftini, hat by Vimhue, shoes by K-Swiss, and pickelball racquet by USA.

Ava Schmitt (right) is wearing top and skort by IBKUL, hat by Vimhue, and shoes by Foot Joy.

Camp Merrie Woode | Cashiers, NC

photos by Susan Renfro and Mary Gillan

Gracewear Fashion High

Wendy Strong Lupas founded Gracewear, to empower women through their Signature Shield of Faith Jewelry Collection, which embodies messages of Hope, Love and Protection. Inspired by Ephesians 6:10-18, the Shield of Faith encourages women to embrace the full Armor of God in their daily lives. According to Wendy, Gracewear is more than just beautiful jewelry, it’s a platform to share messages of Hope, and Love. She hopes that wearing the Gracewear serves as a reminder that God oversees all things. You can easily find something from this inspirational brand for every style and occasion. Within each product category – including bracelets, necklaces and earrings, there’s a wide range of wearable and appealing options. Expanding beyond their signature jewelry, Gracewear now offers a wide range of contemporary apparel and accessories, original abstract art, and inspirational gifts. Their message of hope continues to spread, and they eagerly invite you to visit their store in Cashiers.

Gracewear

82 Village Walk Way, Cashiers | (828) 743-3999

Leah Grace Craig (left) is wearing dress by Oliphant, purse by Parker & Hyde, and jewelry by Gracewear.

Ava Schmitt (right) is wearing dress by Baroque, purse by Parker & Hyde, and jewelry by Gracewear.

Camp Merrie Woode | Cashiers, NC

photos by Susan Renfro and Mary Gillan

A Jones Company Fashion High

A Jones Company offers a delightful array of styles, occasions, and trends – a lifestyle boutique brimming with curated provisions for vibrant living. Proprietor Amy Jones selects and celebrates her personal favorites, showcasing both playful and timeless clothing and sleepwear from renowned brands like Johnny Was, Melissa Nepton, Dear John, Tractr denim, Caite, Kyla, PJ Harlow Pajamas and Barefoot Dreams. The store also features a charming mix of home entertaining pieces, including barware and home goods that “spruce up your spaces,” along with thoughtful gifts for hosts and hostesses. By stocking items that resonate with Western North Carolinians, Jones has fostered a genuine sense of community within her store.

A standout within A Jones Company is the Cashiers Candy Shoppe, a haven for lovers of treats and sweets. Here, shoppers can indulge in gourmet popcorn from Popinsanity, irresistible toffee from Scamps Toffee, beautifully wrapped handmade chocolates from Italy’s Venchi chocolate company and exquisite handcrafted truffles from Seattle.

A Jones Company 3 Chestnut Square Cashiers | (828) 743-1111

Ava Schmitt and Leah Grace Craig are wearing dresses by Johnny Was.

Camp Merrie Woode | Cashiers, NC

photos by Susan Renfro and Mary Gillan

TIMELESS LEATHERS

This exquisite men’s coat, size 42, makes a stunning textural statement, with its bold leather blend of beast and bird. It’s one of those unique garments that only improves with time and wear. Accessorize it with a traditional sporran, adding an additional leather touch. Sporrans hang atop a kilt’s center, held in-place by belt and chain. The combination salutes a dramatic, aesthetic harmony, honoring one’s Scottish heritage.

Scully Leather Jacket | $168

Leather Sporran | $ 48

VC for Men | Cashiers

THE WONDER OF THE WEAVE

It’s sleek, it’s solid, it’s molded magic. This 18K Gold unique weave ring wraps, shrinks, and expands to fit finger sizes between 5 to 7. Garnished with dazzling diamonds, it’s the epitome of style and design.

Chimento X-tend Gold Ring | $ 2040 Bijou| Highlands

Plateau Picks A few of our favorite things

Pots | Assorted Sizes and Pricing Whistlin’ Dixie | Sapphire HAPPY PLANTS, EASY CARE

These self-watering pots are hand-crafted and glazed by Vietnamese artisans - and are plant care magic. Each vessel is a unique work of art and uses 75% less water than drip irrigation! Convenient and light-weight, they make certain your well-fed plants will thrive.

THE ULTIMATE WEEKENDER

The Avery Weekender is perfect for that quick getaway. Crafted from beautiful leather, it has two interior pockets for easy organization. It’s the beautiful, classic, and convenient bag you can travel with for years.

ABLE Avery Weekender Bag | $ 398 Allison Diane | Highlands

FLIRTY AND FABULOUS

This spring/summer trio is as comfy as it is flirty and fabulous. Your wardrobe welcomes this sassy, poppy dress with an Asian vibe. Complement your outfit with the open-toe, strapped leather shoe, flashing a 2.25” stacked kick-ball heel embellished with sparkling, multi-color rhinestones. Complete the ensemble with an adorable, honey poppy basket.

Poppy Dress $ 448 | Kiki Gem Heel $ 498 Honey Poppy Basket | $ 298 McCulley’s | Highlands & Cashiers

FITS LIKE A DREAM

Everything about this beautiful sweater and jeans are artfully crafted to flatter. From the boat-neck styling to the anklegraze jeans - both are super soft and stylish. They’ll soon be your summer in the mountains favorite ensemble.

Marble Sweater $110 | Marble Ankle Jeans $172 Sashay Around | Cashiers

THE FEEL OF LUXURY

Women who care about beauty, touch, Mother Nature, and fine craftsmanship are inescapably drawn to FEEL handbags. Run your fingers over velvety, sumptuous Italian leather, worthy of royalty. Posh, yet understated to accommodate any fashion. Enjoy your personal bag and its flourishing precious metals. Note handcrafted zippers, and a hand-braided shoulder strap, made for comfort and refined design. FEEL says it all.

Assorted Sized and Pricing Bungalow Boutique | Cashiers

High Style Fashion Show

You’re invited to the High Style Fashion Show, celebrating the latest trends and the timeless classics – from Resort Casual to Mountain Chic to, naturally, High Style. Join us at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, May 18, at Town Square in Highlands. It’s free and open to everyone, with VIP Seating available for $25.

Join us on Saturday, May 18, at 10:00 A.M. at the High Style Fashion Show – a celebration of the latest trends and timeless classics that define fashion on the plateau. Set against the backdrop of our picturesque Highlands, this event promises an unforgettable

fashion-forward experience.

Whether you’re a fan of Resort Casual, Mountain Chic, or High Style itself, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Best of all, attendance is free and open to all, making it the perfect opportunity to

immerse yourself in the world of plateau fashion alongside fellow enthusiasts. For those seeking an enhanced experience, VIP Seating is available for just $25, offering exclusive benefits including preferred seating, a welcome beverage, and a swag bag filled with surprises.

Wit’s End TJ Bailey’s

For over two decades, The Laurel has been a steadfast supporter of the fashion and artistic communities found on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. Our passion for showcasing the unique personalities and businesses that contribute to our region’s cultural vibrancy has never wavered – and it is with great excitement that we announce our sponsorship of the High Style Fashion Show, a highlight of this month’s High Style Celebration.

The High Style Fashion Show will not only showcase the exquisite styles found

at our local boutiques, it also serves as a testament to the rich artistic tapestry that weaves our community together.

With a lineup of local boutiques and designers ready to dazzle you with their ensembles, this is your chance to see firsthand the talent and style that the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau has to offer. You’ll be dazzled by the offerings from (as of this printing) TJ Bailey, Annawear, Elevations of Highlands, Wit’s End, Highlands Kids, Allison

Diane, Monkee’s of Highlands, Elena’s, Highland Hiker, and Darling Duck.

Of course, there’ll be plenty of other events to take in during this exciting weekend, but we wanted to extend this personal invitation to you.

by Marjorie N. Deal

Elena’s

Elevations

Annawear

See What’s New With Joan

Joan Anderson Interiors’ expansive new location, coupled with its concierge level of attention allows its clients to envision even more possibilities.

Joan Anderson

Joan Anderson Interiors has moved from Village Walk to 236 State Route 107 N, Suite A, near Zoller Hardware and across from Cashiers Service Center. This central location offers ease of access and plentiful parking while maintaining all the charm you’ve come to expect from Joan’s shop. Customers will be pleased to know that along with Joan her knowledgeable team members, and faithful shop dog, Willie, have also made the move and are, as always, welcoming customers with warm smiles; and, in Willie’s case, mesmerizing soulful eyes and a gentle spirit that speaks of the comfort of home.

This is the kind of business where customers embrace the friendly atmosphere and are excited to return often to see what’s new.

Joan can help you design your perfect home look and feel whether you’re building a new home, remodeling an old home, or simply looking to add some

pizazz to an existing space. In addition to providing homeowners with her decorating services and expertise, both in the store and onsite, she is also glad to work with her customer’s contractors.

With an eye for color, Joan’s customers rely on that discerning eye to elevate their home interiors, whether helping choose interior paint colors, fabrics, furnishings, or accessories. Her love of gardening and flowers is evident throughout.

Joan treasures one-of-a-kind items and is best known for original artwork of all types from traditional to contemporary, much of it from local artists, and an extensive collection of vintage and antique rugs. They also offer so much more- custom upholstery and window treatments; lighting; coffee table books; garden and design books; bed and bath items; local jewelry; pillows; bar and glassware; gift items; home fragrances and candles; linens; vases; a large selection of Jan Barboglio home décor items;

and even cocktail napkins designed and printed especially for Joan. Joan moved to the area in 2012 to be closer to family and quickly found her niche in Interior Design. She has especially enjoyed participating in the Cashiers Designer Showhouses throughout the years and many customers have sought her out after seeing her designs there.

Joan Anderson Interiors is open Monday through Saturday, 10:30 A.M. until 5:00 P.M., and closed on Sundays, with design consults by appointment. You can also check them out on their website, joanandersoninteriors.com, or their Instagram page. The Instagram page is also a great place to discover special events such as trunk shows or the occasional fireside paint and chats with local artists. Expect the unexpected here.

by Mary Jane McCall

Best Just Got Better

New owner Stacie Platt has brought her artistic sensibilities and a dynamic new energy to Rusticks of Cashiers. Visit rusticks.com for more marvelous visuals and information, or call (828) 743-3172.

For more than three decades Rusticks of Cashiers holds the standard for mountain home enhancement and interior design.

And now, under the new ownership and vision of Stacie Platt, the best just got better.

Stacie celebrates her Rusticks’ connection. “I worked over the years with Ann

and Rody Sherill, the store’s founders. I was drawn to their business style and design choices. They had a love for everything. I want to continue their legacy in Cashiers and keep the energy they generated alive.”

Rusticks opened their 32nd season last month. There is a mini-metamorphosis in the making. Visit the new attic

consignment section above the annex. The concept: new and pre-owned, some slightly shop-worn (but well-kept) furnishings and accessories to be placed on sale in the attic. It’s a captivating assortment, much like a magical trunk sale filled with fast-moving inventory. Remember when you walked into Rusticks in previous years, you couldn’t

Stacie and Thomas Platt

help feeling a rush of WOW! Now, with Stacie’s new additions, it’s WOW squared. While nurturing the casual shopping style and exceptional customer service, you’ll instantly feel at home. New accessory lines are being introduced. You’ll love the glowing, incandescent candle collection. Other additions include fabulous fabrics, samples of new, whisper-soft floor-coverings, and tantalizing drapery options, all in the store open to the public. Expanded samples of the latest trends alongside traditional collections are ready for your

viewing. Feel the welcoming touch to Rusticks’ fine fabric.

“My husband, Thomas Platt, is my prime supporter. His working in Cashiers real estate is a bonus for Rusticks and for our clients,” says Stacie. “We continue the Rusticks mountain home family feel with full service, from home-buying to interior designing. We are excited to take on this soul-satisfying venture. We welcome seeing old friends and meeting new ones.”

Design services are just a visit or phone call away. Luscious new fixtures and

furnishings arrive weekly. Shipping and delivery is quick. Rusticks is waiting to brighten, lighten, and deepen your mountain chic home’s unique style.

It’s open Monday through Saturday, 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

by Donna Rhodes

Scan to learn more.

Fall in Love with Everything

Chestnut Cove makes the case for domestic bliss through bespoke décor. Discover for yourself with a careful browse – 252 Highway 107 South in Cashiers.

Owners Robert Cheney and Bob Mather, with Bentley

When you walk into Chestnut Cove, you fall in love with absolutely everything. Thank goodness, these mountains don’t have a Love Tax. Chestnut Cove is like being in a store of electric-eclectic. Everything’s abuzz.

But all that energy is tempered by a laid-back feel as customers wander, absorb, touch, and savor every aisle’s display. Visitors get happily swallowed up in the welcoming flow. The lower level entrance invites you to chandelierplush mountain home décor, featuring furnishings, floor coverings, linens, and interior design accents. Explore beautiful classic plaids and seasonal colors. Add to that, cast-iron bulldogs, and a variety of wide-ranging must-haves. You’ll find great prices on pillows and fun-stuff. There’s something for everyone’s unique taste.

The sensory experience continues to the upper level which has its own street

entry. Co-owner Bob Mather says, “Upstairs we are evolving the gift and table top placemats and things you’d use as hostess gifts. Bourbon is a huge market now, bourbon and juice foods for cocktails and desserts (think bourbon pies, cakes, and truffles). The choice flavors of upper level are of the whisky family, lower level, wine.”

While you’re strolling upstairs, visit the Raggedy Ann display. It’s a salute to Cashiers resident Johnny Gruelle, author and creator of the Raggedy Ann Doll lineage. In keeping with his tribute, they expanded the children’s clothing. Along with the Raggedies, they offer Put-toBed books with matching pajama sets. Cute stuff grandparents will adore.

While Chestnut Cove is loaded with a wide variety of wonderful, it also carries a collection of exquisite Bob Mather original paintings. Personal commissions are negotiable.

If you’re a dog-lover, you’ll be pleased to

know Corgi Rescue is a passion for the owners. Pretty soon they will bring their Corgi pup to work. Now that’s a whole store full of cute all by itself. There’s plenty more to see and love at Chestnut Cove (remember, no love tax). The owners are engaging. The colors and visuals might as well be shopping therapy.

When you’re making large item purchases, you’ll be thrilled to know that local delivery is prompt and super reasonable.

Chestnut Cove is open year-round for the locals, seven days a week. Winter hours: 11:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.; Summer 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. On Special Event days, they’ll stay open late. If you just can’t make it to the gallery, you can call (828) 743-7151 or (828) 556-0547.

by Donna Rhodes

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WEST END

1. On The Verandah Restaurant

2. Highlands Smokehouse

3. High Country Wine & Provisions

5. The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts

6. The Bascom Shop

7. The Dave Drake Ceramic Barn at The Bascom

SOUTH END

25. 4118 Kitchen & Bar

27. Dauntless Printing

37. Lupoli Construction

38. Allen Tate/Pat Allen Realty Group

39. Highlands Decorating Center

45. Don Leon’s

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

124. Landmark Realty

128. Primary Kitchen + Bar

132. Elevation: High Fashion for Women

134. The Southern Way

136. Dutchmans

141. Main Street Gifts

146. Wit’s End Shoppe

147. Calders Coffee Cafe

148. Highlands Fine Art & Estate Jewelry + Wine Shop

152. Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty

153. Allison Diane Clothing

158. C. Orrico

160. TJ Bailey for Men

163. Spoiled Rotten

166. Annawear

167. The Christmas Tree

169. Country Club Properties

170. Highlands Pizza Place

175. Monkee’s

180. Bijou

185. Ristorante Paoletti

187. The Dry Sink

190. Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro

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

208. Highland Hiker Shoes

210. Creative Concepts Salon

211. Highland Hiker

WRIGHT SQUARE on MAIN

(Factoid: Named after Whiteside hero)

114. Edward Jones

117. Country Club Properties, Wright Square Office

SPRING VILLAGE

400. Jannie Bean Fine Custom Jewelry

403. Oakleaf

406. Brookings Fly Shop

VILLAGE PARK

613. Cleaveland Realty

619. Christie’s Internatonal Real Estate Highlands Cashiers

ON THE HILL

303. Mirror Lake Antiques

305. Jeanie Edwards Fine Art

306. Acorns

308. Highlands Burrito

310. McCulley’s

311. Martha Anne’s on the Hill

312. The Ugly Dog Public House

313. Old Edwards Inn

318. Peggy Crosby Center: - The Kitchen Carry Away & Catering - Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation

319. Lakeside Restaurant

CAROLINA VILLAGE

701. Mountain Life Properties

708. Haley’s Fine Lingerie

709. Wayah Insurance

710. The High Dive

710. The Hideaway at The High Dive

711. Roots & Vine

712. Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals

NORTH END

815. Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival

815. Highlands-Cashiers Players

815. Highlands Performing Arts Center

815. Mountain Theatre Company

OUT NC 106

➡ Peak Experience

➡ Highlands Outpost

➡ Allan Dearth and Sons Generators

➡ Highlands Aerial Park

➡ Vineyard at High Holly

➡ Sky Valley Country Club

OUT 64 WEST

➡ Jackson Hole Gem Mine

OUT 64 EAST

➡ Black Rock Design Build

➡ Berkshire Hathaway Homes Services

Meadows Mountain Realty

➡ WHLC

➡ Highlands Lawn & Garden

➡ High Camp

➡ Highlands Rock Yard

➡ Mission HealthHighlands Cashiers Hospital

➡ Rejuvenate Laser Center

➡ Allen Tate/ Pat Allen Realty Group

➡ Highlands Dermatology

➡ Roman’s Roofing

VISIT FRANKLIN

➡ The Attic Antiques

➡ Diva’s on Main

➡ Highlander Roofing

➡ Whistle Stop Depot

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

8. Remax - Summit Properties

16. Stork’s - Wrap. Pack. Ship.

19. The Look Boutique

21. Sashay Around Ladies Boutique

THE SHOPS AT CASHIERS COMMONS

22. Joan Anderson Interiors

25. Bella Ctn.

27. Bird Barn & Garden

28. Cashiers Kitchen Co.

30. Bombshell Hair Boutique

31. The Watershed Shoppe

33. Zoller Hardware

AT THE CROSSROADS

37. Landmark Realty Group

CHESTNUT SQUARE

43. A Jones Company

45. Cashiers Valley Real Estate

47. Lehotsky & Sons, Builders

54. Mountain Home Consignments

55. Fusion Yoga & Wellness

55. The Bungalow Boutique

57. Kellar Williams Great Smokies

59. Las Margaritas

EAST 64

62. Laurel Terrace:

- Natural Element Homes

63. Alexander Gardens:

- Victoria’s Closet

- Victoria’s Closet Shoes & Purses

- Vic’s for Men

72. Ingles Plaza

- Allen Tate/ Pat Allen Realty Group

75. Carolina Rustic Furniture

76. Blue Ridge Bedding

79. Jennings Builders Supply

VILLAGE WALK

80. A-List Antiques

80. Josephine’s Emporium

80. Laura Moser Art

86. Nora & Co.

89. Nearly New Furniture Consignment

90. Gracewear Boutique

95. Objet D’Art

96. Dr. Anita Dormer

SOUTH 107

102. TJ Bailey’s for Men

103. Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming

105. Atelier Maison

105. ID.ology Interiors & Design

105. Living Stone Design + Build

107. Berkshire Hathaway Home Services

Meadows Mountain Realty

108. Landmark Realty Group

110. McCulley’s

111. Rusticks

112. Vivianne Metzger Antiques

113. Brookings Fly Shop & Cashiers

Village Outfitters

115. Chestnut Cove

121. Robin’s Nest

122. Landmark Realty Group

123. Caliber Fine Properties

128. Mountainworks Custom Home Design LTD.

130. The Cashiers Store

131. Tampa Bay Trust Company

136. Cashiers Sotheby’s International RealtyThe McKee Group

137. Bounds Cave Rug Gallery

138. The Orchard Restaurant, Events Barn & Guest Cottage

140. Mountain Motor Coach

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

154. Cashiers Valley Smokehouse

155. Cashiers Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center

156. Creekside: - Toby West Antiques

157. Sotheby’s International Realty

172. Whiteside Art Gallery

173. Betsy Paul Properties

176. Lenz Gifts

DOWN 107 NORTH

➡ Bazaar Barn

DOWN 107 SOUTH

➡ Silver Run Reserve

VISIT CULLOWHEE

➡ Four Seasons Landscape

VISIT GLENVILLE

➡ Crawford Construction

➡ Happ’s Place

➡ Smoky Mountain Transportation

VISIT LAKE TOXAWAY

➡ The Greystone Inn

➡ Los Vaqueros

VISIT SAPPHIRE :

➡ Burlingame

➡ Hidden Valley Tavern

➡ Library Kitchen + Bar

➡ Sapphire Valley Real Estate

VISIT SYLVA :

➡ Baxter’s Tree Service

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

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

Pages 176-185

Lady of The Lake

Kathy Balistreri brings a local’s savvy and an insider’s deep knowledge to the game of Toxaway-Sapphire Real Estate. Call her at (828) 883-4848 or visit laketoxawayliving.com.

Kathy Balistreri of Balistreri Realty knows the local real estate market inside and out. As a long-time resident with years of experience, she’s got the knowledge you need to find just the home or property you’re looking for and can walk you through the entire process seamlessly.

Whether listing or selling, Kathy will partner with you to see your transaction through from start to finish. She has lived full-time on Lake Toxaway since 1994. Before that, it was her vacation home.

While growing up in South Florida,

Kathy earned her Real Estate license at the age of 18. (Her father started Balistreri Realty in 1964). Kathy’s passion for the real estate business grew when she attended Florida State University.

“I took every Real Estate Law and Marketing course I could find at FSU. Housing and Interior Design was my major. For 14 years I ran my own design firm in Boca Raton. Having both my Real Estate Broker and Interior Designer licenses greatly broadened my scope of business.”

Her clients can hardly believe their

luck finding a broker who can not only help with the real estate end of things but also utilize her design skills to help create their dream home. This is also beneficial to those wishing to sell a property. Kathy can stage a home before listing it, since she knows what potential buyers are looking for, thereby maximizing the saleability.

“When my children went off to college at Chapel Hill, I opened my own Real Estate office,” she says.

Personal referrals from friends and clients (along with challenging work), catapulted Kathy into a busy and

Kathy Balistreri

extremely rewarding career in Western North Carolina.

Kathy has lived on the lake for 30 years, and she can often be seen showing houses on her tritoon, The Lady of the Lake. It has proven to be a great sales tool. Friends and neighbors started calling Kathy “The Lady of the Lake” as they often see her cruising Lake Toxaway in her boat or kayak. Her enthusiasm for finding people homes in this area has blossomed into many friendships with clients and neighbors. Her clients know that Kathy goes way beyond the call of duty to make their buying or selling experience pleasurable and positive.

“From my real estate experience in Broward and Palm Beach counties, I

know that I am selling a lifestyle, not just real property,” Kathy says. “Living on “The Plateau” in these mountains is a most sought-after lifestyle for discerning clientele. And, having designed and built three custom homes for myself, I know what goes into buying a homesite or remodeling an older home.

And I know what goes into selecting a site, planning and executing a home construction project in the mountains.”

Kathy’s interior design expertise is key in helping to prepare her new listings for marketing. She understands staging, feng shui, and other subtle designer’s marketing strategies.

“Most buyers welcome the guidance of an interior designer when they are

looking at existing homes,” she says. “I can instantly help them visualize how a home can be modified to accommodate their needs and desires.”

Interior changes need not be extravagant or extremely costly. A good designer can make suggestions that are cost-effective and beautiful.

And over the years, Kathy has found talented and honest contractors to recommend to her clients. “When my clients are happy, I am happy!”

by Mary Jane McCall

photos by Mary Gillan

Broker Associate Melisa Collins, and Kathy Balistreri

A Land Rich in History

The Historic Toxaway Foundation has an ambitious task built into its DNA – to preserve the beauty and overwhelmingly upbeat spirit and hospitality of this beautiful stretch of land.

You’ve probably noticed how Laurel has been paying special attention to the ToxawaySapphire community over the last three years.

That’s because we’ve partnered with The Historic Toxaway Foundation to illuminate this stretch of land’s rich history (the Cherokee purportedly gave us the name “Toxaway!” A 1916 dam break of Biblical Proportions! The vital chestnut forest decimated by a blight that would not be contained!), to outline Historic Toxaway’s efforts to ensure that this era of growth benefits everyone in the community (which stretches from Rosman all the way to the eastern edge of Cashiers), and outline strategies for ensuring that the region’s future is as straightforward as its roads are curvy.

That’s a lot of responsibility, but over the foundation’s eight years, it’s scored some remarkable successes – its

members are serving on the boards of the Brevard/Transylvania Chamber of Commerce, Heart of Brevard, TCTDA, Housing Assistance Corporation; and the establishment of the Business Alliance of Upper Transylvania, which is already adding its clout to the marketing and development of this often-overlooked stretch of Western North Carolina; a donor to the Transylvania Tomorrow Fund; and publishing the Red Feather Guide in both monthly print and weekly digital format, which serves as business card for local enterprises and a calling card for visitors.

Historic Toxaway has also been working with the Longcliff Village development team on a 105-acre parcel adjoining Gorges State Park. Since the proposed land usage combines commercial, hospitality, and residential development, HTF’s effort is focused on converting an existing 44-acre con -

servation easement within the Longcliff development from private into public access land suitable for educational and recreational opportunities.

“There needs to be thought and action given to the directions we’re heading,” says HTF Board Member Nory LeBrun. “Our region includes Rosman, Balsam Grove, Quebec, Lake Toxaway, and Sapphire. We plan to enact a capital campaign next year to raise funds to upgrade and add to the trail system at Longcliff.

“It’s unusual that it’s surrounded on three sides by Gorges State Park, yet it’s gently sloping – both a grandmother and her three-year-old grandchild could walk the trails and see flora and fauna that don’t exist in other parts of the Eastern United States. The fourth side is a dramatic view over the Blue Ridge Escarpment.

“One of the very few places that anyone in the community – White, Black, Hispanic, Local, Part-time, Visitor – all come together is at McNeely’s Hardware and everyone engages, and says, ‘Hi.’ We want to ensure that that sort of friendly community continues to exist far into the future, within the Upper Transylvania footprint, and at Longcliff.

That’s a quick look back – next month we’ll examine how the Foundation is doing in fulfilling its ambitious goals.

If you’d like to learn more about the Historic Toxaway Foundation or BAUT, or become a member, visit historictoxaway.org.

by Luke Osteen

Scan to learn more.

The Airing of The Quilts

Cashiers Historical Society’s busy 2024 calendar ensures that the past is not simply remembered, it’s celebrated. For instance, there’s the Airing of the Quilts, set for May 25-27.

Cashiers Historical Society is home to an array of activities and events that the whole family will enjoy.

From May to December, you can find something for everyone.

A large part of Cashiers Historical Society’s mission is hosting educational events that showcase the heritage of Appalachia and Cashiers. Airing of the Quilts is one such event that CHS is proud to continue for the third year. The event once again will take place on the wonderful grounds and the four historic buildings located on Highway 107 South that make up the historical society. This year the family friendly event will be celebrated Memorial Day weekend, Saturday, May 25, Sunday, May 26 and Monday, May 27 Memorial Day from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

Airing of the quilts is a traditional rite of spring in the mountains. After the

long winter, the women of the household would hang their quilts outside to freshen them before storing each until next winter. To honor the tradition, CHS will have on display quilts from area quilters, as well as quilts from the Appalachian Women’s Museum and the Mountain Valley Quilters who are responsible for the “Quilts of Valor” for veteran’s and first responders. To continue the celebration, there will be a variety of crafts to enjoy with the painting of your own barn square as well as an opportunity to make a bitty broom and a corn husk doll.

Once again there will be fresh bread and jam and jelly to enjoy and purchase. And as always there are activities and crafts for the children.

Finally, this year there will be a special exhibit housed in Col. John’s Cabin featuring Work and leisure: Tourism and the Creation of Modern Cashiers.

CHS invites you to help make this a memorable event by bringing your family and inviting your friends to see the quilts and enjoy the many activities. CHS is a 501(c)(3) organization and while the event is free, donations are a necessity to our continuation and appreciated.

Lastly, do you have a quilt that has a story? Would you like to share a favorite family quilt? Or maybe you would like to volunteer Memorial Day weekend, May 25, 26 and 27. Any questions, call the office (828) 743-7710 or (828) 883-2990.

by Sandi Rogers, Cashiers Historical Society

Scan to learn more.

The Council’s History

A simple resolution to increase learning opportunities on the Plateau has blossomed into a happy, thriving enterprise.

The Literacy Council of Highlands, as it was first named, boasts a remarkable journey. It started in 1993 with a simple mission: to address the lack of free reading resources for children in town. At the time, a handful of volunteers unofficially came together to support a few children, laying the foundation for what would become a cornerstone of the community.

By 1995, the growing need for help led to the official establishment of the Literacy Council of Highlands, a 501(c)(3) organization. Utilizing the basement of Highlands United Methodist Church and the Hudson Library, they continued to bridge the gap for children and adults seeking literacy support.

The need for a dedicated space arose as the Council’s impact and student base grew. They moved to the Peggy Crosby Center, eventually utilizing multiple rooms to accommodate their expanding programs.

In 2017, Bonnie Potts joined as Executive Director and expanded both the type of programs offered and the number of participating students. First, the after-school program was opened to anyone needing additional academic assistance, including math and science. The program was greatly extended from two to five days a week. A partnership with Highlands School was created so that teachers could refer students whom they identified as needing extra support.

Recognizing the limitations of shared spaces, the council embarked on a new chapter in 2018. They identified the “old post office” building as their potential learning center and embarked on a significant renovation project. While programs temporarily relocated to the Highlands Rec Park and the administrative offices found a temporary space in Highlands Plaza, the vision for a permanent home solidified. 2019 brought the completion of construction, and TL&LC programs and administrative offices settled into their new location next to Bryson’s Food Store.

In 2017, Bonnie Potts joined as Executive Director and expanded both the type of programs offered and the number of participating students.

Today, The Literacy & Learning Center, as it was renamed during a rebranding process in 2020, thrives in its renovated Learning Center, serving a more extensive student base and offering diverse programs that address evolving community needs. Individuals served in 2023 through the range of programs include 50 after-school programs, 50 summer camps, 25 individual tutoring programs, 12 ESL programs, and five GED students.

Additionally, 1,000 books were given out through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, and 2,000 were given out during community Halloween and Christmas events with the financial support of Highlands’ Mountaintop Rotary Club. Finally, 32 volunteers provided 640 hours of service through programs, particularly after school.

This remarkable journey reflects the unwavering dedication of staff, board members, volunteers, and supporters who continue to empower individuals through the transformative power of literacy. As these efforts continue, TL&LC looks to the future and the addition of a new Pre-K program. Enrollment guidelines are still underway and approaching completion. The application period will be announced soon. For more information about programs, contact Caroline Cox at CCox@ TheLiteracyandLearningCenter.org or call (828) 526-0863.

by Anna Norton, Literacy & Learning Center

Cashiers’ Design Center

Drawing upon four critical factors – Design, Materials, Construction, and Décor – Natural Elements Homes represents the epitome of concierge home planning/ building. For information, visit naturalelementhomes.com.

Dreaming of an extraordinary mountain home? Maybe a log home? A timber frame home? Hybrid home? Whatever home fills your needs – and your heart – is just a phone call away in Cashiers.

Robert Lambert, Founder/President and John Kries, Vice President, Business Development of Natural Element Homes can build any home plan, any way you want it. They spent the past few decades developing a highly-successful, nationwide, home enterprise. It’s based

on four basic steps: Design, Materials, Construction, and Décor.

Robert and John are opening their latest Design Center right around the corner in Cashiers.

Robert says, “A physical presence in Cashiers has been a long term goal that we are now able to realize. It’s a place that I first encountered in the early 2000s. I visited the builders and the construction scene and began to see where we could differentiate ourselves by building in the mountains. We could

incorporate some of the materials that are physical components here, things like virgin stone and indigenous timber.

“Our company got its name when I was talking with a co-worker more than 20 years ago. We were standing in the area our Cashiers Design Center occupies now. As the region’s beauty wrapped itself around us, Mother Nature revealed the perfect business name: Natural Element Homes.”

Natural Element Homes is a one-stop shop. Start your Design phase by visiting

the exclusive Virtual Design Center. Or show staff your own ideas, and they will start from scratch. Unlimited customization is at the core of NEH creed: customer-first.

With Design in place, choose from their highest quality materials. By producing their own supplies NEH saves customers money. Among their manufactured products are logs, timbers, trusses, wall and roof panels, modules, and components designed for your specific home. No matter what home style you choose, cabin to castle, the craftsmanship and aesthetics are guaranteed stunning and a cut way above big box retailers.

The Build – NEH delivers the materials

to your jobsite. You can use your own builder, or the company will furnish one which will provide all labor and additional supplies required.

Décor: Once your turnkey home is complete, it’s time to accent its natural elements. Give your dwelling a look that reflects your personal style. Natural Element Interiors’ Showroom makes it easy to find the perfect selections. NEH takes pride in its craftsmanship, its exceptional materials, its one-stopshop process, and its robust library of possibilities. But what Robert and John cherish the most is its dedication to pleasing their customers, from first dwelling-sketch to final customer-grin.

Robert says, “We are extremely approachable people. We cherish a longterm relationship with our clients and our employees. We are not in it for the minute. We do things honestly, celebrate our customers, and sleep like babies. We’ve done this for decades and we are good at it.’”

Visit Natural Element Homes online: naturalelementhomes.com. And stay tuned to The Laurel online calendar for NEH opening and events.

by

Donna Rhodes photos by Mary Gillan

Come to The Church

The summer services at the Little Church in the Wildwood are testament to the timeless joy of hymn-singing.

Every summer since 1945, except for the two years of Covid-19, the Little Church in the Wildwood holds a hymn sing.

Nestled in Horse Cove, the Little Church was built with chestnut lumber hewn from nearby Forest Service Land and moved by the Civilian Conservation Corps to the building site. John Edwards, John Norris, Les Mizner and other Horse Cove residents volunteered their labor in the construction, which was completed in 1945. It has been in service ever since.

The leadership is all-volunteer with experience orchestrating the service including special music that is a signature of the evening.

The Little Church has no denominational affiliation nor membership requirement. All are welcome. The service is held every Sunday from

Memorial Day through Labor Day.

An old dinner bell rings at 6:50 P.M. to call worshippers in. The service starts promptly at 7:00 P.M. and ends at 8:00 P.M. The hymns are those from the 1938 Cokesbury Hymnal. Each guest gets to select their favorite hymn, if they have one, for the service. At the conclusion we dismiss with “How Great Thou Art.”

Since Covid, the original floor has been refurbished, mold remediated, windows repaired and ground shrubs cut back or removed. The funding was provided by local contributions and a GoFundMe effort. We are ready for you.

Come! It’s a sweet experience at the Little Church in the Wildwood.

by Robin Phillips

BEE Kind is back for Mental Health Awareness Month this May

Mental health remains a pressing issue, with mental illnesses affecting millions of people across the country. Factors such as access to care, stigma, and societal pressures contribute to the challenges faced by those dealing with mental health issues. Additionally, the pandemic has further exacerbated existing mental health concerns, leading to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

As the conversation around mental health continues to evolve, efforts to enhance support systems, reduce stigma, and prioritize mental well-being are crucial for addressing the complex landscape of mental health in America. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the Health Foundation is excited to remind the Plateau to BEE Kind.

BEE Kind, founded in May of 2023 in partnership with the Counseling Center of Highlands, is an initiative that believes “Mental Health Begins With Kindness” and works to create open conversations and reduce stigmas for people of all ages and walks of life. We believe that the more kind, empathetic, and curious our community can become, the better we all will be as

a Plateau and beyond! Kindness is a powerful tool to promote overall mental well-being as we navigate the challenges in our daily lives. Here are five ways that we can incorporate kindness into our lives:

1. Self-Compassion: Practice selfcompassion by offering understanding and forgiveness to ourselves. It is normal to feel anger and anxiety, considering the daily challenges we face. Treat yourself with kindness, acknowledge your emotions without judgment, and practice self-care when needed.

2. Empathy and Understanding: Be empathetic and understanding towards others and their struggles, some of which we may not see. By fostering a compassionate attitude, we create a positive environment that can help everyone thrive.

3. Connection and Community: Strengthen bonds within our communities. Reconnect with neighbors, friends, and family members. Engage in acts of kindness, such as checking in on loved ones or offering assistance to those in need. Building connections and promoting a sense of belonging can counter feelings

of isolation and reduce anxiety.

4. Appreciation: Develop an appreciation practice by acknowledging the positive aspects of our lives. Expressing gratitude can shift our mindset and amplify positive emotions, reducing anger and anxiety. Take time each day to focus on the things you are grateful for, no matter how small.

5. Random Acts of Kindness: Engage in random acts of kindness towards friends and even visitors. Small acts, such as offering a helping hand or a kind word, can uplift both the recipient and ourselves. Acts of kindness remind us of our shared humanity and create a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

The Health Foundation is excited to partner again this year with the Counseling Center of Highlands and other organizations and businesses all across the Plateau for BEE Kind. Look for the bees around in the month of May (and early June). Join us in participating in BEE Kind activities. And remember, kindness matters. The little things we do for someone may mean more to that person than we will ever know.

by Josh Bryson, Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation

Financial Focus® How is Your Retirement Income Taxed?

Once you’re retired, you will likely need to draw on several types of income for your living expenses. You’ll need to know where these funds are coming from and how much you can count on, but you should also be aware of how this money is taxed — because this knowledge can help you plan and budget for your retirement years.

Here’s the basic tax information on some key sources of retirement income:

Social Security – Many people don’t realize they may have to pay taxes on their Social Security benefits. Whether your benefits will be taxed depends on how much other taxable income you receive from various sources, such as self-employment, stock dividends and interest payments.

You’ll want to check with your tax advisor to determine whether your income reaches the threshold where your

Social Security benefits will be taxed. The lower your total taxable income, the lower the taxes will be on your benefits.

The Social Security Administration will not automatically take out taxes from your monthly checks — to have taxes withheld, you will need to fill out Form W-4V (Voluntary Withholding Request). Again, your tax advisor can help you determine the percentage of your benefits you should withhold.

Retirement accounts – During your working years, you may have contributed to two basic retirement accounts: an IRA and a 401(k) or similar plan (such as a 457(b) plan for state and local government employees or a 403(b) plan for educators and employees of some nonprofits). If you invested in a “traditional” IRA or 401(k) or similar plan, your contributions may have been partially or completely deductible and your earnings grew on a tax-deferred

basis. But when you start taking withdrawals from your traditional IRA or 401(k), the money is considered taxable at your normal income tax rate. However, if you chose the “Roth” option (when available), your contributions were not deductible, but your earnings and withdrawals are tax-free, provided you meet certain conditions.

Annuities – Many investors use annuities to supplement their retirement income. An annuity is essentially a contract between you and an insurance company in which the insurer pays you an income stream for a given number of years, or for life, in exchange for the premiums you paid. You typically purchase a “qualified” annuity with pretax dollars, possibly within a traditional IRA or 401(k), so your premiums may be deductible, and your earnings can grow tax deferred.

Once you start taking payouts, the

entire amount — your contributions and earnings — are taxable at your individual tax rate. On the other hand, you purchase “non-qualified” annuities with after-tax dollars, so your premiums aren’t deductible, but just like qualified annuities, your earnings grow on a taxdeferred basis. When you take payments, you won’t pay taxes on the principal amounts you invested but the earnings will be taxed as ordinary income.

We’ve looked at some general rules governing different sources of income, but you should consult your tax professional about your specific situation. Ultimately, factors such as your goals, lifestyle and time horizon should drive the decisions you make for your retirement income. Nonetheless, you may want to look for ways to control the taxes that result from your various income pools. And the more you know about how your income is taxed, the fewer unpleasant surprises

you may experience.

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

Todd Holder

Spring Arrivals

The Boys are Back in Town! Spring brings the Carpe Diem herd to a healthy six heads.

It’s an exciting time at Carpe Diem Farms. The two big boys have arrived from Bulls Gap, Tennessee, and are settling into their new routine of life on our farm. Kaleb the Percheron x Paint and Daniel, the former racing Thoroughbred, have joined the mares to make our herd six strong.

The four remaining mares have not had any geldings (boys) here in quite some time. It does cause a bit of disruption until they all get into a new rhythm with one another. It’s been fun to watch the dynamics.

Kaleb, from the moment he stepped off the trailer, knew he was home! Within an hour of his arrival, he was back to his old trick of splashing in the water troughs. He ran up to the first trough he spotted, lifted his front leg, splashing to his delight. Before I could put an end to his joy-filled glee, he had broken the heater in the bottom of the tank! He now gets his heated water in five-gallon buckets

hanging on fences and has smaller water troughs with no heaters to play in! The only thing missing on the farm is a pond to swim in. He would certainly be in horse heaven for that!

Daniel has made Carpe Diem home. He seems calm and at peace with his new place and new family. As the youngest of the herd, 13, he enjoys his days exploring with Kaleb and visiting with the girls over the fences. We’ve had to make a few fence repairs as neither of the boys realize just how big and strong they are!

Soon I will begin to do lots of groundwork with the boys to get them both back under saddle. It will be fun to ride Kaleb again and Daniel for the first time!

Carpe Diem Farms is a 501©3 non-profit educational foundation; “Exploring the Human Potential Through Equines.”

by Sue Blair, Carpe Diem

Farms

Everybody Needs a Yogi

When she needs a bit of clarity and composure, Donna turns to her Inner Yogi.

My friend K. is a whiner. She complains about being broke. She has no love life. She hates her job.

“Leave her behind,” I tell myself.

Then, my inner Yogi Berra reminds me, K.’s 90 percent whiny, but her other half is a lotta fun.

When Yogi puts it that way, all’s forgiven.

Mickey Mantle hit a ton of home runs in the 1950s, but Yogi Berra could hit a homer every time he opened his mouth. And even though he insisted, “I never said everything I said,” history provides enough evidence to certify

the Yogi legend.

As for K., when she gets craptismal, I grab my supplemental brain (my laptop) and start rolling off Yogi-isms. In seconds she’s a goner, laughing, snorting, and telling me stories about her grandad who memorized every Yogi-ism there was, including the ones he never said.

We laugh so hard we collapse into LOLzheimers.

Here are a few of our Yogi faves:

“When you come to a fork in the road, take it.”

“I usually take a two-hour nap from one to four.”

“Never answer an anonymous letter.”

“We made too many wrong mistakes.”

“Nobody goes there anymore. It’s too crowded.”

“It gets later early out there.”

“Pair up in threes.”

“If the world were perfect, it wouldn’t be.”

So next time you are in the company of friends who are plowing their Armageddon gardens, pause for a Berra Break and practice the philosophy of a different kind of Yogi.

by Donna Rhodes / art by Norma Jean Zahner

Skin Cancer Awareness

A handful of wise decisions and a wealth of common sense can ensure that your skin remains healthy and beautiful.

Lindsey D. Koach

Skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer in the United States, as well as one of the most preventable. The month of May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, which makes it the perfect time to start thinking about how we can protect ourselves from the sun this upcoming year.

Many of the patients we see grew up in the era of “baby oil and iodine,” when having a deep tan was fashionable and attractive. Unfortunately, lack of sun protection increases the risk of skin cancers with roughly 5.4 million basal and squamous cell carcinomas being diagnosed in the U.S. each year.

Melanoma is less common, but also the most aggressive skin cancer and the chances of developing this type increases with factors such as a history of tanning bed use, having light colored hair or fair skin, and a history of frequent or

excessive sun exposure. Luckily, most skin cancers are easily treatable through simple excisional surgery or other routine therapies.

…which makes it the perfect time to start thinking about how we can protect ourselves from the sun…

Preventative measures you can take against these cancers include decreasing sun exposure between the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 2:00 P.M., when the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are the strongest and applying broad-spectrum, waterresistant sunscreen in strengths of SPF 30 or higher, which should be reapplied every two hours. Additionally, many clothing companies make UPF-rated clothing that protects against UVA

and UVB light, which is a great option for those who cannot keep up with sunscreen reapplication.

Now, many people wonder, when is the best age to start skin cancer screenings? It’s recommended that individuals begin having skin cancer screenings around age 20, especially if you live in a climate with lots of sun exposure. So, for those of us who grew up in the days of burning mixed CDs and flip phones, you are probably overdue for your first screening!

by Lindsey D. Koach, Highlands Dermatology

Scan to learn more.

Calhoun’s Big Adventure

Thanks to the compassionate principles embedded within Park on Main’s business plan and a Nashville woman with a loving heart, Calhoun had the happy ending that all of the residents of Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society dream about.

We all like to think that the pampered pets in our household are in the “lap of luxury.” We would like to introduce you to a shelter pet who actually lived it.

Calhoun is an eight-year-old hound dog who we rescued last summer after he was found as a stray in Hendersonville. After spending the remainder of summer, fall and winter at our no-kill shelter, Calhoun was selected to be 2024’s first foster-dog-in-residence at the luxurious Park on Main hotel in Highlands.

But Calhoun was far from the first shelter dog resident at the hotel. Our unique foster partnership with The Park on Main began way back in 2015. Over the past near-decade, more than two dozen canines from CHHS have stayed at this beautiful dog-friendly hotel and as a result, met their new family and found their forever home.

That’s just how it worked for Calhoun. After seven months in our compassionate care, Calhoun checked in to The Park on Main earlier this year. The staff at the hotel gave this senior dog the royal treatment, with an Orvis orthopedic dog bed, clean, pure water and the very best food in MacKenzie-Childs ceramic bowls, snacking on gourmet grain-free dog treats, romping in their very own exclusive dog park, and 24-hour human companionship, including interacting with animal-loving visitors from all across the globe.

One of those animal lovers, Sydney from Nashville, stayed at The Park on Main with her boyfriend, and Calhoun spent the night with them in their room. Because she didn’t want to make an impulse decision about adoption, she went home to think about it. What she discovered was that she couldn’t get Calhoun off her mind. Over the next few weeks Sydney communicated with CHHS staff and once the paperwork was completed, plans were put in place.

Calhoun’s Big Adventure started with a round of tearful goodbyes with hotel staff and then on-camera interviews with the crew from ABC News in Asheville. The news crew followed Calhoun and CHHS staff to Sugarloaf Mountain Park in Benton, Tennessee, a beautiful spot about halfway between Highlands and Nashville. At the park Sydney was reunited with the dog she couldn’t stop thinking about, and that afternoon they drove off together for their forever home and a fairytale ending to Calhoun’s Big Adventure.

Established in 1987, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit animal welfare organization located at 200 Gable Drive in Sapphire, one-and-a-half miles east of the Cashiers Ingles in between Cedar Creek Club and Lonesome Valley on Highway 64. Our no-kill shelter is open Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-4:00 P.M. For more information, call (828)743-5752 or email info@chhumanesociety.org. Tax-deductible donations to support our lifesaving work can be mailed to: CHHS, P.O. Box 638, Cashiers, NC 28717.

by David Stroud, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society

New Gear in The WheelRotary

With a sharp vision and a deep love for her adopted community, Jille Katz Siler takes the reins of Cashiers Rotary.

Jillie Katz Siler

It’s hard to doubt destiny when someone like Jille Katz Siler, co-owner of Crossroad Custard and Cold Brew, serendipitously brings her talent and passion to the small mountain village of Cashiers.

Because she and her husband, Badge Siler, spent years in hospitality, they were hired as consultants for the planners of Happ’s Place. While here, they fell in love with the people and the region. Not long after, they made Cashiers their home.

Since 2020, Jille’s connected, if not rooted, to the local community, so much so, she is now the energetic president of Cashiers Rotary. Under her direction, the club is showing new vibrancy, increased attendance, and enthusiasm.

“I am very fortunate to be the new guy in town,” Jille says. “It feels good to have people be open to my ideas. Being awarded Rotary presidency is an honor. I have never experienced such a welcoming community like Cashiers.”

Jille is passionate about what Rotary can do during her term. “My business led me to the

club. I look at Rotary as a way for me to bring more and more good into our community.”

You have to give Jille kudos for filling the missing enjoyment link in town – custard and creamy brews. She and her shop were the cherry-on-top-sweetness that the village needed, not only for sweet satisfaction, but for Jille’s driving force aimed at building community awareness. Her family shop’s success is part of her paying forward for Cashiers and the region.

Rotary Clubs provide their members, aka, people of action, a vehicle to develop leadership skills and good citizenship with other folks like-minded. The ice cream shop was not the only missing link for Cashiers. Jille and her husband, a powerhouse team, were part two of destiny’s gift.

If you want to know more about Cashiers Rotary, visit cashiersrotary.org or email Jille@ crossroadscustard.com.

by Donna Rhodes

PCC’s Latest Happenings

With its turmoil and trouble finally in the rearview mirror, The Peggy Crosby Center sets course for a busy year ahead.

Peggy Crosby Center Board Chair Robert E. Smith and Pisgah Legal Services Regional Development Officer Leslie Manning.

At last, Covid, frozen pipes, roof leakage, and more are in Peggy Crosby Center’s distant past.

This year PCC’s doors swing open with a wide grin to its vibrant tenants and workforce. Every space is finally filled. Even a storage room was reconfigured to add one more office for PCC’s newest occupant, Pisgah Legal Services.

Few will need an introduction to Pisgah Legal, a service that provides free civil legal aid and advocacy to Western Carolina’s low-income residents. They help in a variety of ways: housing, safety from abuse, income, and health care. They will likely partner with a few other agencies at Peggy. Discover more at pisgahlegal. org/free-legal-services.

Board Chair Robert E. Smith welcomes the full house. “All our spaces are rented now. The few remaining areas are for mechanical and cleaning material space or areas like a supplies room, conference room, and kitchen for staff (tenant and building) use.” He adds, “We are not only adding a new nonprofit tenant, but we are also

increasing our total number of nonprofits from six to seven. This helps us fulfill our mission more completely than ever.”

Linda Schowalter, the Board’s Secretary, closed with comments on PCC’s location and endurance. “The Peggy Crosby Center is located at the top of the hill on Fifth Street in Highlands. This is where the old Highlands Hospital was located. The building has been rehabilitated to take exceptional care, housing many small businesses over the years. The building has been evaluated. It comes through every time. With an eye to the future, the non-profit has had the benefit of generous donors.”

The entire Board gives their thanks to everyone who keeps Peggy’s sails billowing. Most will agree, Peggy’s a ship that rescues us all on occasion.

If you’d like to know more about Peggy’s history and/or her latest improvements or her tenants, visit peggycrosbycenter.org.

by Donna Rhodes

The Ripple Effect of Kindness

From the days of the Cherokee to the present, kindness has been the primary virtue of Plateau-dwellers.

In today’s world, where social media dominates our interactions and screens consume our attention, the simple act of kindness may seem to be lacking. A mere click of a button can broadcast our thoughts to the masses, it’s easy to forget the impact our words and actions can have on others. Social media platforms, while designed to bring us closer together, often serve as breeding grounds for negativity and division. But what if we chose a different path? What if, instead of adding fuel to the fire, we used our digital platforms to spread

kindness like wildfire?

Imagine logging onto your favorite social media site and being greeted not by a barrage of complaints and criticisms, but by a stream of uplifting messages and words of encouragement. It may sound like a pipe dream, but it’s within our reach. It starts with each of us making a conscious effort to be mindful of our online interactions, to pause before hitting send, and to ask ourselves, “Is this comment spreading positivity or perpetuating negativity?”

But kindness isn’t confined to the digital realm; it extends far beyond the confines of a screen. In our everyday lives, whether we’re standing in line at the grocery store, chatting with a neighbor on Main Street, attending a local community event, or dining in a local restaurant, we have countless opportunities to practice kindness. It’s holding the door open for the person behind you, offering a friendly smile to a passerby, or taking the time to really listen when someone is speaking.

In small towns especially, kindness isn’t

just a nicety; it’s a necessity. It’s the glue that binds us, reminding us that we’re all in this together, each doing our best.

Visitors and new residents often remark on the warmth and kindness of the people in Highlands, and it’s a reputation we’re proud to uphold. However, extending kindness shouldn’t be limited to our interactions with people we don’t know; it’s equally important to demonstrate kindness towards each other within our community.

Kindness isn’t always easy. It requires patience, empathy, and a willingness to set aside our own egos in favor of the greater good. It means choosing to be the bigger person, even when you may

want to lash out. It means recognizing that we’re all flawed people, navigating our way through life as best we can, and extending a hand of understanding rather than pointing fingers of blame.

So, how do we cultivate a culture of kindness in our community, both online and off? It starts with each of us making a commitment to lead by example. It means choosing kindness in every interaction, no matter how small, and spreading positivity wherever we go. It means listening to other people’s perspectives with an open mind and a compassionate heart, even when we disagree.

In the end, kindness is a choice—a

choice we make every day, in every interaction. It’s a choice to lift each other up rather than tear each other down, to build bridges rather than walls, and to leave Highlands, and in turn, the world a little brighter than we found it.

by Johanna Fein,

Highlands Chamber of Commerce / Visit Highlands, NC Scan to learn more.

Emily Joins Team Laurel

Though it seems like she’s always been a part of this magazine, we’re now making it official – Emily Munger is The Laurel ’s newest Account Manager.

Emily and Michelle Munger

The Laurel Magazine happily welcomes their newest account manager, Emily Munger, into the Laurel family.

It’s more accurate to say that we’re officially welcoming Emily because she has always been a part of The Laurel family as she is the niece of managing partner Janet Cummings, and the daughter of art director Michelle Munger.

From childhood, Emily watched with pride as her family’s hard work was rewarded when The Laurel grew from The Little Magazine That Could into the area’s most enjoyed and sought-after resource for information about the Plateau. Her lifelong dream was to one day work alongside her family and now that dream is reality. The million-watt smile she’s always wearing is evidence that dreams do come true.

This new role as an account manager is tailor-made for her. Emily graduated

from Highlands High School in 2012 and her deep roots mean she knows the area, she knows the people and she knows the businesses.

She loves meeting new people and her smiling, friendly demeanor and enthusiasm puts her clients at ease. They know she is invested in showcasing the best of the mountains by helping them design and achieve their advertising plans. It gives her great pleasure to work alongside businesses, watching them grow and expand.

From the information-gathering stage to the final glossy product, Emily collaborates with each client to ensure that their visions come to life. She feels strongly that each business is also part of this magical Laurel family. That personal commitment means she goes the extra mile.

When Emily is not busy reaching out to new and existing clients and

brainstorming ways to expand The Laurel’s territory and reach, she’s a family gal through and through, cherishing time with her fiancé and their two children, Aiden, 7 years old, and Abigail, 5. Family time is where she recharges her batteries, whether it’s family movie night, playtime in the yard, or an increasingly busy sports schedule now that her kids are getting older. She’s thankful every day that she’s now the role model for her kids that her Mom and Aunt were to her and is excited to pass down the Laurel dream. Nothing would make her happier than to one day work alongside one or both of her children.

To advertise in The Laurel, reach out to Emily at emily@thelaurelmagazine.com.

by Mary Jane McCall

THE LEGACY CONTINUES

The McKee Group

Cashiers Sotheby’s International Realty

Beth Townsend and Liz Harris, Co-Owners of McKee Properties, along with McKee Brokers, are continuing the legacy as The McKee Group brokered by Cashiers Sotheby’s International Realty. Nearly half a century of local luxury real estate expertise is now backed by the Sotheby’s brand offering worldwide exposure and world-class resources for their clients.

BETH TOWNSEND LIZ HARRIS MAGGIE ELMER

SANDY BARROW JOHN BARROW CLAY CANTLER JESSICA HOHEISEL

Beaumont Ridge Farm

7 BR / 7.5 BA / 39.17 ACRES Perched atop a flat ridge within the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, Beaumont Ridge Farm offers the unparalleled sanctuary of days long past. Prestigiously selected as the 2014 Cashiers Designer Showhouse, the premier estate has only been improved upon since with extensive renovations in every residence, bringing modern luxury to the picturesque and private property. Discover a bucolic 40 ± acres of pristine pastoral land with a spectacular main house flanked by a two-bedroom guest house and additional bunk house. Soaring vaulted ceilings and incredible views

Offered for $8,995,000 (JUST REDUCED)

are the perfect accent to exposed stone walls and rustic finishes befitting a luxury country estate. A six-stall barn will delight any equestrian. Outbuildings, workshops, and garages ensure ample space to enjoy every hobby. Pass the time fishing at Lake Glenville and along WNC’s fabled fly-fishing trail, or in the trout-stocked pond on property, skeet shooting in the back pasture, or hiking the property’s perimeter trails, all while pristine, lush landscaping and breath-taking views of Laurel Knob and Cow Rock Mountains paint a picture-perfect backdrop. This fine estate is subdividable up to 7 parcels/owners. MLS 103344

$1,849,000

5 BR / 4 BA / 0.46 ACRES — This charming home in Sapphire Valley, offers a prime location, picturesque setting, and excellent condition. The oversized lot features beautiful landscaping, a flat driveway, privacy fencing, and exterior lighting. Inside, enjoy hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, stone fireplace, wet bar, and a gourmet kitchen. MLS 103741

High Hampton $625,000

0.91 ACRES — Gently rolling access to this easy build lot tucked away in the Fieldstone section of High Hampton has mixed evergreen and deciduous vegetation. The 275 foot back property line adjoins a 22+ acre greenspace. At the time of listing, this is the least expensive lot available in High Hampton. MLS 103258

Glenville

$445,000

2 BR / 2 BA / 0.35 ACRES This recently renovated cottage offers a spacious covered deck showcasing breathtaking year-round mountain and valley vistas. Outside, enjoy a level yard with ample garden space or a playground. Updates include HVAC, a convenient handicap access ramp, new carpet, and steps leading to the lower yard. MLS 103756 Glenville $445,000

3 BR / 3.5 BA / 0.34 ACRES Exquisitely renovated, this home boasts an inviting open floorplan. The updated kitchen seamlessly blends with the spacious family room, complete with a captivating stone fireplace. Each bedroom offers the luxury of an ensuite bathroom. Step onto the generous covered porch and admire the expansive flat yard. MLS 103798

Beth Townsend

A Real Estate Professional for Over 30 Years on the Plateau, and a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist with Elite™ Recognition

Land Planner/Project Manager for William McKee’s Wade Hampton Golf Club and others + Cashiers roots since 1970 + Landscape Architecture degree, University of Florida

“When selling a challenging property,you want Beth on your team.She is determined, creative and perseveres to meet your goals.From emails and texts on the weekend to going above and beyond her‘broker duties,’you know instantly that you have an essential advocate on your side.” – SEAN L .

BETHTOWNSENDBROKER.COM

Along with the late A. William McKee, Beth was a Co-Founder — and played a significant role in the history of — The McKee Group’s parent company, McKee Properties. Her career includes participation in many of William McKee’s development projects including Cedar Creek Club, the Snowbird community, and as a land planner for the residential side of Wade Hampton Golf Club, home to the awardwinning Tom Fazio golf course.

Consistently a top-ranked Broker, she has been a real estate professional for 30+ years. Beth is a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS) with GUILD ELITE™ recognition. With a Landscape Architecture degree from the University of Florida, Beth is able to give unique expertise on large-acreage development parcels as well as historic estates and homes in the area’s finest private communities.

A career highlight was Beth’s five-year involvement with family landowners who assembled specialists to create a conservation easement protecting more than 600 acres of land close to the center of Cashiers. Portions of the adjoining 400 +/- acres have been successfully marketed and sold through Beth.

Her childhood summers and holidays spent at High Hampton set the stage for her deep love and connection to the nature and culture of the area.

SCAN TO VIEW BETH’S LISTINGS

Silver Run Reserve

5 BR / 5.5 BA / 8.57 ACRES Nestled within the picturesque Silver Run Reserve, this stunning 8.5-acre estate offers a sanctuary just minutes from Cashiers. Envisioned by renowned architect TS Adams and crafted by esteemed builder, Harris Custom Builders, a magnificent 5-bedroom home awaits its completion in April 2024, beckoning the arrival of the summer season on the plateau. Embraced by the gentle landscape, the residence boasts vistas of Whiteside Mountain and Terrapin Mountain and land extending through the forest to the meadow of Silver Run Reserve. Near the estate’s boundary, Silver Run Creek meanders serenely, inviting fishing enthusiasts and children alike

Offered for $6,500,000

to explore its natural plunge pools and tranquil wading spots. Conveniently situated within walking distance of the community’s indoor and outdoor amenities yet cocooned within its own acreage for utmost seclusion, this estate promises an unparalleled lifestyle amidst nature’s splendor—a true gem awaiting discovery. MLS 101991

*LOTS & NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION AVAILABLE! UNDER CONSTRUCTION

for $2,350,000

4 BR / 4.5 BA — Nestled within the picturesque landscape of Silver Run Reserve, this beautiful cottage with approximately 3,000 heated square feet offers a harmonious blend of luxury and comfort across its four bedrooms and 4.5 baths. The main floor showcases two master en-suites, each offering a tranquil retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. Upstairs, two additional en-suites and a loft sitting area provide ample space for family and guests, ensuring everyone feels right at home. The large, screened porch, affectionately known as the Carolina room, is the perfect outdoor living area where much time is spent here

in the cool comfortable climate of the mountains. Silver Run invites residents to explore a wealth of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, fishing, boating, swimming and a variety of curated events and experiences. The Water Plant serves as a hub for fitness and recreation, featuring a state-of-the-art gym, golf instruction and simulation lab, and open recreation space. The Meadow House, set to debut in 2026, offers indoor and outdoor entertaining areas, a beautiful bar, and commercial kitchen. The pool and pool house, ready for use this summer 2024, boast panoramic mountain, meadow, and lake views. MLS 102931

A private, low-density amenitized community, located on the prestigious 107 South corridor just five minutes from the center of Cashiers, NC.

“Liz Harris is on top of the Cashiers real estate market. She is proactive and creative and someone you want working for you. We’ve worked with her on several transactions and enjoy her personally as well as professionally.” – RENEE H

“Liz has successfully been my Broker on two occasions. First, she coordinated with other Brokers to get top-dollar for my home in Mountaintop. Next, she was able to secure a property I really wanted after it was just sold to someone else, and find a solution that satisfied everyone. In a word she is tenacious, and gets the job done.” –

CHRIS E

“Over the last 10 years, Liz Harris has represented us as buyers or sellers in probably six transactions. She has a keen sense when a ‘deal’ is possible and works very hard and creatively to make it happen. Bottom line is Liz is the best!” – ANN & BILL V

Cashiers, Hwy 107 S $6,900,000

39.18 ACRES — A rare opportunity to acquire this premier Cashiers acreage located on the prestigious Hwy 107S corridor just 3 minutes from town! Much of the land is nearly level, featuring a creek and stream, and an elevated area offering great homesites with gentle topography and beautiful mountain views including Chimneytop and Rock Mountain. MLS 101855

Laurel Knob Road

$1,895,000

3 BR / 2.5 BA / 7.56 ACRES This farmhouse offers over 7 beautiful acres in a perfect location close to Cashiers and Mountaintop Golf Club. It showcases Laurel Knob rock face and small gently rolling meadows. The one level floor plan includes a spacious master suite and an additional two bedrooms and bathroom. The living areas offer a large kitchen, living room, dining area, office, and expansive deck. MLS 103761

$2,150,000

4 BR / 4.5 BA / 1.70 ACRES — Located in Wade Hampton Golf Club, this home boasts beautiful mountain and golf course vistas. The main house features a beautiful vaulted great room with large windows on three sides, stone fireplace, kitchen fireplace, a large primary suite and upper guest suite and bonus room. The carriage house above the carport provides two additional guest suites. Classic mountain charm. MLS 102267

Schoolhouse Cottages $1,775,000

3 BR / 3.5 BA / 0.07 ACRES Welcome to this charming cottage, just a stroll from the heart of Cashiers. This home is like new and is part of the lovely Schoolhouse Cottages neighborhood. It offers several custom features, an open floor plan, high ceilings, two stone fireplaces and large windows throughout. The home is offered furnished and it’s beautiful landscaping is maintained by the HOA. MLS 103117

5 BR / 5 BA / 2 HBA / 1.12 ACRES Nestled within the prestigious Chattooga Club, just a brief five-minute drive from Cashiers, this timeless mountain retreat embodies refined charm and offers a captivating blend of indoor and outdoor spaces for gatherings with family and friends. The grandeur of the great room is accentuated by a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Seamlessly connected, the dining room and kitchen open to a sprawling outdoor covered porch with vaulted ceilings and an additional uncovered porch, both with a stone fireplace. The

Wade Hampton

4 BR / 4 BA / 0.82 ACRES This renovated family residence within the prestigious Wade Hampton Golf Club offers captivating views of Chimneytop, Rock Mountain, and of Whiteside Mountain. Boasting close proximity to town and just inside the main gates of Wade Hampton, this property presents a prime location. The main level is flooded with natural light, courtesy of tall windows and doors enveloping the great room. Large doors lead to an expansive covered deck. The newly upgraded kitchen features state-of-theart appliances, elegant cabinetry, and a spacious island. The dining room, with its charming, vaulted ceiling, seamlessly connects to the deck. The

Offered for $3,990,000

main level hosts a spacious primary suite, ensuring convenience and luxury for the homeowner. Ascending to the upper and lower levels reveals four additional generously sized suites. An intimate sitting area upstairs serves as a delightful spot for guests to unwind, while the expansive family room on the lower level, complete with a bar/kitchenette, is tailor-made for game days and entertaining. MLS 102949

Offered for $3,290,000

primary suite on the main level impresses with vaulted ceilings, stunning views, and a generously sized en-suite bathroom featuring marble floors, oversized shower, and an inviting soaking tub. A second en-suite on the main level ensures convenience for guests. Upstairs, you’ll find an additional ensuite bedroom, along with a spacious loft area. The lower level offers a family room equipped with a wet bar, a fourth generous guest en-suite, bonus space, and a sizeable, covered porch. An attached, two-car carport is conveniently located adjacent to the laundry room. The gentle topography of the property invites the possibility of additional gardens. MLS 103841

4118 Kitchen and Bar 4118kitchen-bar.com P 128

A&A Property Cleanouts P 212

A Jones Company P 82

A-List Antiques P 225

Acorns acornshighlandsnc.com P 244

ACP Home Interiors acphomeinteriors.com P 49

Allan Dearth and Sons Generators adsemergencypower.com P93

Allen Tate/Pat Allen Realty Group patallenrealtygroup.com P 9, 57

Allison Diane allisondianeclothing.com P 92

Annawear annawearnc.com P 105, 208

Around Back at Rocky’s Place aroundbackatrockysplace.com P 101

Atelier Maison ateliermaisonco.com P 66, 67

The Attic Antiques theatticantiquesnc.com P 147

Balistreri Realty laketoxawayliving.com P 181

Barbara Jamison Paintings barbarajamisonpaintings.com P 5

The Bascom thebascom.org P 103

Baxter’s Tree Service P 221

Bazaar Barn P 30

Bear Shadow bearshadownc.com P 218

Bella Cotn bellacotn.com P 194

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices meadowsmountainrealty.com P 94, 95

Beth Bowser P 100

Betsy Paul Art Benefit P 186

Betsy Paul Properties betsypaulproperties.com P 243

Bijou Jewelry bijoujeweler.com P 162

Bird Barn & Garden P 165

Black Rock Design Build blackrockdb.com P 120, 216

Blairsville Scottish Festival blairsvillescottishfestival.com P 209

Blue Ridge Bedding blueridgebedding.com P 166

Blue Ridge Falls RV Resort bueridgefallsrvresortcom P178

Blue Ridge Music P 118

Bombshell Hair Boutique P 206

Bounds Cave’s Rug Gallery boundscaverugs.com P 33

Brookings Fly Shop brookingsonline.com P 89

Bungalow Boutique bungalow828.com P 209

Burlingame experience-burlingame.com P 183

C Orrico corrico.com P 90

Calders Coffee Cafe calderscoffeecafe.com P 129

Caliber Fine Properties caliberfineproperties.com P 214-215

Carolina Rustic Furniture carolinarusticfurniture.com P 166

Cashiers Burger Week cashiersburgerweek.com P141

Cashiers Chamber of Commerce cashiersareachamber.com P 78, 190

Cashiers Candy Shoppe P 158

Cashiers Kitchen Company P 165

Cashiers Sotheby’s International Realty - The McKee Group P 53, 232-239

The Cashiers Store thecashierstore.com P 224

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus P 119

Cashiers Valley Real Estate cashiersvalley.com P 172

Cashiers Valley Smokehouse cashiersvalleysmokehouse.com P 133

Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals highlandsiscalling.com P 59, 216

Charles Johnson

Fine Art Photography charlesjohnsonfineart.com P 101

Charlie’s Hot Buns charlieshotbuns.com P 178

Chestnut Cove P 17

Christie’s International Real Estate highlandscashierscire.com P 38, 39

Christine’s Home Decor christineshomedecor.com P 216

Historic Toxaway Market historictoxawaymarket.com P 181

Hummingbird Lounge oldedwardsinn.com P 244

ID.ology Interiors & Design idologydesign.com P 69

Jack’s Upholstery P 164, 217

Jackson Hole Gem Mine jacksonholegemmine.com P 70, 79, 191

Jannie Bean janniebeandesigns.com P 231

Jeanie Edwards Fine Art jedwardsfineart.com P 107

Jennings Builders Supply jbwnc.com P 222

Joan Anderson Interiors joanandersoninteriors.com P 159

John Cleaveland Realty jcrealty.com P 230

Josephine’s Emporium P 31, 217

Katherine McClure katherine-mcclure.com P 114

Kellar Williams Great Smokies P 43, 55

Kenneth Bowser Art P 100

The Kitchen thekitchenofhighlands.com P 128

Lake Toxaway Company laketoxaway.com P 174

Lakeside Restaurant lakesiderestaurant.info P 134

Landmark Realty Group landmarkrg.com P 121, 217

Las Margaritas P 137

Laura Moser Art lauramoserart.com P 5

Lehotsky & Sons lehotskyandsons.com P 216, 227

Lenz Gifts & Luxury Linens P 226

Leslie Jeffery lesliejeffery.art P 109

Library Kitchen + Bar librarykitchenandbar.com P127

Living Stone Design + Build livingstonedesignbuild.com P 68

The Look Boutique P 21

Los Vaqueros P 143

Lupoli Construction lupoliconstruction.com P 223

Main Street Gifts P 118

Main Street Nursery P 86

Martha Anne’s P 55

McCulley’s P 3

Meraki Escapes merakiescape.com P 179

Michele Page Webster, Artist pagetheartist.com P 115

Mirror Lake mirrorlakeantiques.com P 32

Monkee’s P 119

Morales Painting P 213

Mountain Construction Engineering mountain-ce.com P 43

Mountain Home Consignments P 158

Mountain Home Spa mtnhomespa.com P 212

Mountain Life Properties mountainlifere.com P 145

Mountain Motor Coach mountainmotorcoach.com P 61

Mountain Theatre Company mountaintheatre.com P 113

Mountaintop Art and Craft Show highlandsartshow.com P 96

Mountainworks

Custom Home Design, Ltd. mtnworks.com P 75

Nancy’s Fancys P 63

Natural Element Homes naturalelementhomes.com P 80

Nearly New nearlynewnc.com P 54

Nora & Co P 15

Oak Leaf oakleafstyle.com P 187

Objet D’ Art P 32

Old Edwards Inn & Spa oldedwardsinn.com P 216, 244

On the Verandah ontheverandah.com P 132

The Orchard theorchardcashiers.com P 136

Paoletti’s paolettis.com P 137

Pat Calderone calderonegallery.com P 108

Peak Experience peakexp.com P 60

Penny Pollock Encaustics pennypollockart.com P 105

Platt Architecture platt.us

P 28, 29

Porch Living porchliving247365.com P 119

Preferred Properties of Highlands - Ann Scott ppoh.com P 217

Primary primaryhnc.com P 135

Pro Servicess P 216

Ramshackle Concert P 118

Reach of Macon County reachofmaconcounty.org P 208

Rebecka’s Home Cleaning Service P 216

Rejuvenate Laser Center P 203

Remax/Summit Properties P 61

Rent In Highlands-CCP rentinhighlands.com P 60

Robin’s Nest robinsnest-cashiers.com P 45

Roman’s Roofing romansroofingnc.com P 83, 217

Roots & Vine roots-vine.com P 135

Rusticks rusticks.com P 11, 187

Sapphire Valley Real Estate sapphirevalleyrealestate.com P 146

Sashay Around P 19

Sky Valley Country Club skyvalleycountryclub.com P 70

Slabtown Pizza slabtownpizza.com P 133 Smoky Mountain Transportation P 83

International Realty

Way

Rotten spoiledrotten2.com

Sweetwater Perk & Creamery historictoxawaymarket.com

Tampa Bay Trust Company tampabaytrustcompany.com

163 Tarah’s Beauty Bar P 216

Bailey’s for Men tjbmens.com

167 The Exchange P 63 Toby West P 93 The Ugly Dog Pub - Highlands theuglydogpub.com P 132

Valentine Manor valentinemanor.com

P 56

Vic’s for Men victoriasclosetnc.com P 54

Victoria’s Closet victoriasclosetnc.com P 54

Victoria’s Sportswear victoriasclosetnc.com

P 54

Village at Longcliff longcliff.com P182

The Village Green villagegreencashiersnc.com P 188

The Vineyard at High Holly thevineyardathighholly.com P 70, 82

Vivianne Metzger Antiques vmantiques.com P 186

The Watershed Shoppe

P 25

Wayah Insurance Group wayah.com P 63, 217

Ways with Clay wayswithclay.com P114

Whistle Stop Depot whistlestopantiquesnc.com P 147

Whistlin’ Dixie P 179

Whiteside Art Gallery whitesideartgallery.com

P 226

WHLC FM 104.5 whlc.com P 17

Willow Valley willowvalleyrv.com P 81

Wit’s End P 37

Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro wolfgangs.net P 5

Woofgang Bakery & Grooming P 221

Zach Claxton zachclaxtonart.com P 108

Zoller Hardware zollerhardware.com P 165, 217

The Zookeeper Bistro thezookeeperbistro.com P 136

PARTING SHOT

by Susan Renfro