November 2022: The Laurel Magazine

Publisher’s Note

Welcome to our November Issue of The Laurel !

We’ve packed this magazine full of notices about events and activities that give flavor and texture to life on the HighlandsCashiers Plateau.

But if you look very closely, you’ll discover that there’s an irreducible message of Goodwill and Gratitude.

Those emotions are directed at you, our loyal readers and our brave and blessed advertisers. Your generosity and steadfast support have carried us through the last twenty years and allowed us to envision a bright future for this magazine and for all the good things that sweeten life here.

Thank You!

Janet and Marjorie

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

Copyright © 2022 by The Mountain Laurel, LLC. All rights reserved. Laurel Magazine is published eleven times per year. Reproduction without the per mission 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.

Contributing Writers: Ann Self, 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.

photo by Charles Johnson

Giving Thanks forOur Dogs and Cats

Fewparts of our lives bring us as much gratuitous joy as our pets, our dogs and cats in particular.

Their love of us sparks an equal love for them. The addi tion of a pet into a family changes the whole household for the better. Pets contribute to our health, wellbeing, and longevity.

Getting to know the canine and feline members of our families reveals interesting and very particular creatures.

Dogs are emotional, for instance, nothing held back or sup pressed. If a dog likes you, you know it by the licks and wags and nudges and importuning body language: “woof, woof, look at me, touch me, pet me, woof, woof, can I jump on you, get in your lap?” Precious.

Cats specialize in being emotionally reserved and subtle. If a cat likes you, however, prepare for a furball to rub against you, want to get in your lap and turn on its “purr box” inviting touch, stroking and sweet talk. The cat’s purr is God’s reminder of the ubiquity of love.

Dogs are eager to have a relationship with you, will meet you more than halfway. With cats, you must work out a relationship, negotiate the exchange. Fifty-fifty if you’re diligent. Beginning with food in both cases.

Being creatures of the pack, dogs are naturally affiliative. They quickly accept social structure: who’s in charge, who eats when, who makes the rules, and who to obey. Dogs are smart and can learn complex tasks such as pulling a sled, guiding the blind and sniffing luggage to find contraband. Their sense of smell can detect and follow an hours-old scent trail.

Dogs are keen to please their human masters. Throw a stick and a dog will chase it down and bring it back. Why? Because it’s your stick and they want to bring it back to you. Dogs can catch a frisbee in mid-air, no small feat. Why do they do that? Because they can and want you to see it. Besides, that’s the game, you throw, they catch: “woof, woof, throw it again, please, please.”

Fetching sticks is beneath cats. They have their own agenda. Their specialty is catching a lizard or mouse or bird and bring ing it home for you to see. They proudly bring their prize catch, alive, in the house and release it: “Hey, look what I caught, purr. Better than a stick, huh?”

Dog are excitable and make their presence known by barking. A dog can bark all day if something needs to be brought to every one’s attention. Some dogs run from bears. Others protectively bark at bears: “Hey everybody, there’s a really, really big black

William reminds us to give thanks for the little lives that enrich our households.

KayeMcHan’sGimlet

dog here!” Bears find a barking dog irritating and can take out even a large dog with one swipe of its sharp-clawed paw. Every year I hear stories about a bear terminating a dog. Here in the mountains, if you love your dog, avoid dog-bear encounters.

Cats don’t understand what all the barking is about. Cats are creatures of stealth and surprise. They lurk and pounce, try to be invisible through stillness and camouflage. Cats thrive in calm quiet. Dogs love activity and excitement. Both relish naps morning, noon and night. Our dogs and cats decorate our lives with beauty and love. So, who is the cat picture here? She’s my cat, Tillie, short for Matilda, a marvelous creature. And that’s Kaye McHan’s sweetheart canine Gimlet, ensuring that pooches get equal billing. Next month, they’ll get turn in the spotlight.

In the meantime, do you know the breed of the NC State dog? I’ll have photos. Is there a State cat? Stay tuned. Happy Thanksgiving full of woofs and purrs.

by William McReynolds

WilliamMcReynolds’Tillie

From Culinary Weekend to Highlands Food & Wine

What a long, delicious trip it’s been – Highlands Food & Wine’s arrival in 2016 heralded a dynamic new take on the much loved Culinary Weekend.

Since2007 food and wine lovers have thronged the streets of Highlands during the second weekend of November. Back then it was called Culinary Weekend. Today we know it as Highlands Food & Wine Festival.

In the early 2000s, Highlands was a seasonal destination. Visitors came in summers to escape the heat, and in October to watch the leaves change. By Halloween they were gone. Seeking a way to extend the season, the Highlands Chamber of Commerce launched Culinary Weekend.

Laura Huerta, then a member of the Chamber, (today she owns Highlands’ Lakeside Restaurant) was tasked with organizing the four-day event and engaging local participation. As Jack Austin, General Manager of Old Edwards’ Half-Mile Farm told me, “Laura Huerta was the driving force behind the event for years.”

Culinary Weekend boasted a myriad of pleasures, including an opening night reception and dozens of wine dinners, cooking classes, exhibits and tastings.

Since the weekend’s inception, tourism to Highlands had dramatically increased, and word of the Plateau’s rich culinary

landscape began to reach far beyond the Southeast.

As Huerta told me, “It started as a way to get people into the restaurants, and I loved that part of it, but it’s human nature to look for refinements and improvements.”

Members of the Highlands Chamber agreed that a new set of eyes was needed to invigorate the festival. In 2015, Chamber President Jack Austin began working with the Greenville, South Carolina, event marketing firm Eleven Events. As the com pany’s partner Casey Reid said, “Jack Austin was a visionary in seeing the potential of building upon Culinary Weekend to further redefine what the shoulder season means. He and the Chamber were gracious enough to entrust us to help develop an experience as unique and special as Highlands.”

Austin admitted that bringing in an outside partner, “wasn’t an obvious choice. But after they saw the reimagined event, we realized it wasn’t something we could have done with the local committee. Huerta agrees, “Eleven Events was what was needed at that point. I don’t know if it would have lasted much longer otherwise.”

Not to be overlooked are the music offerings that have contin

HighlandsCulinaryWeekend,2007

ued to evolve since HFW first launched in 2016. As Reid said, “It has helped grow the festival brand and introduce new fans to the annual celebration.” It has also brought a younger demographic to the festival.

Along the way, Highlands Chamber passed the baton of producing the festival to Highlands Festivals, Inc. - an organization that is dedicated to promoting Highlands as an inspiring place to live and visit by producing worldclass events.

What began 15 years ago as a grassroots event to bring the community together and extend the fall season, now attracts visitors year-round. Thanks to the Highlands Food & Wine Festival, Highlands can now claim its place as a true culinary playground. The juxtaposition of enjoying food and wine created by famous chefs and vintners while effectively sitting on top of a mountain amid the bustle of like-minded foodies has created a mystique that is unique in the culinary landscape of the South.

The sixth annual Highlands Food and Wine Festival will be held November 10-13. For more information visit highlandsfoodandwine.com.

by Marlene Osteen

HighlandsCulinaryWeekendPoster,2008

The Holidaysin Highlands

Thanksgiving weekend in Highlands truly is a magical start to the most wonderful time of the year, as we kick off the holiday season with our annual Light Up the Park & Main festivities on Saturday, November 26, from 6:00 until 8:00 P.M. at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park.

Families from all over eagerly anticipate this evening of fun and excitement as the park is transformed into a winter wonderland with dazzling Christmas lights, Santa’s sleigh and a picturesque ice-skating rink. Norman Rockwell couldn’t have imagined a more perfect holiday scene.

The air will fill with live music by local favorites Silly Ridge, once again playing the sounds of the season and leading the crowd in singing Christmas carols. There’s no sound as joyous and uplifting as that of the crowd joining their voices together. For that moment in time, you haven’t a care in the world and are enveloped in the peace of the season.

Of course, sweet treats and warm drinks will be available, so save a little room to indulge. There will also be a display of children’s artwork and a reading of the Christmas story by a local pastor.

Topping off the evening will be the arrival of Santa whose entrance atop a fire truck ushers in the lighting of the park and Main Street. It’s a magical moment when the park and town come alive with thousands of lights that will remain throughout the season for everyone’s enjoyment.

Don’t forget that Santa will also appear in the park each Saturday to hear wishes from children of all ages. If you miss him on a Saturday you can always leave your wish list in the special mailbox he leaves in the park and checks regularly.

Also make time to stroll through downtown Highlands and enjoy the storefront decorations our merchants display as part of our Trim the Town contest. Choose your favorite display and

There’s nothing sleepy about Highlands’ small-town Christmas Celebration.

vote for it online for a chance to win a gift card. Prizes are presented to local businesses who win a People’s Choice Award. Naturally, you’ll want to do a little Christmas shopping during your stroll as well. Shop local and bring smiles to everyone on your gift list.

For more information on these and other holiday events call the Highlands Welcome Center at (828) 526-2112 or email us at events@highlandschamber.org.

by Mary Jane McCall

Scan to learn more.

Sparkle and GlowFor Summit

Make a December to remember with the Summit Charter School Foundation Festival of Trees fundraiser on Thanksgiving weekend, Friday, November 25, and Saturday, November 26, from 10:00 A.M. until 5:00 P.M.

The decoration inspiration is at Summit Center at 370 Mitten Lane. View over 100 pre-trimmed trees, holiday baskets, and evergreen wreaths beautifully decorated and donated by local businesses and non-profits. Bid on your favorites. Then, if you win, rejoice in adorning your home with sparkle and glow.

There’s more, starting with crafts for kids, like the annual favorite: Build-a-Bear. Go shopping in the Gift Zone and stop by Dolly Parton Literacy Library stage for education that’s fivestar fun. And you’ll be the best Santa for your kids or grandkids if you win the Appalachian Golf Cars Club Car.

Plan ahead for a November 26 VIP Santa and Friends Breakfast with Chef Andrew Barlow and Chef Alexis Smith (from the Club at High Hampton). It’s all kinds of delicious! The Claus Family gives it two thumbs (and eight hooves) up. Eighty percent of the proceeds go back to the non-profits which donated them. Spread holiday cheer while making an impact on

local students, teachers, and nonprofits. Help those who make a profound difference in our community.

Kudos to local residents Sarah Palisi Chapin and Sarah Jennings. They are co-chairs for a second year in a row. Special thanks to McKee Properties for being the event’s Presenting Sponsor.

Anyone interested in helping the Cashiers Festival of Trees as: a volunteer, benefactor, or silent auction donor (tree, gift basket, or wreath), visit Summit’s website at summitschool.org or contact Melissa Hudson at (828) 743-5755, or email her at mhudson@summitschool.org.

Organizers are making it easy to participate virtually if you can’t attend in person, so everyone has a chance to enjoy the fun and place their bids.

Join the fun, decorate your home, and help Summit Charter continue to soar.

by Donna Rhodes

Summit Charter School Foundation’s Festival of Trees allows you to add flair and a dash of panache to your holiday decorating – November 25-26.

Past to Present

The Plateau’s twin libraries have cataloged a range of titles suited for those suffering from mental and physical challenges.

Centersfor Disease Control and Prevention says that an estimated 5.8 million people in the United States have Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

To meet ongoing needs for people struggling with these condi tions, as well as recovery from strokes, falls, major illness, etc., the Fontana Regional Library system, which includes libraries in Cashiers and Highlands, offers the new “Memory Lane” collection.

“We’re excited to be able to offer these materials to our commu nity to fulfill a growing need,” noted Serenity Richards, branch librarian for the Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library.

The compiled Memory Lane collection includes various materi als designed with a focus on visual images rather than words. The collection was carefully chosen to supply entertainment, visual and mental stimulation, interest, and enjoyment.

Said Carlyn Morenus, branch librarian for Hudson Library in Highlands, “Visually-oriented books help people reminisce, as images are a very powerful way to access memories. They can help increase communication, whether it’s with relatives, caregivers, or friends.”

In the new collection are approximately 50 books ranging from short fiction to picture-only titles focusing on such topics as vintage cars, landscapes, gardens, horses, etc. Plus, almost a

dozen jigsaw puzzles are offered that range from 35 to 300 pieces and sport colorful images of forests, steam trains, and animals, for example. All the books and puzzles, as well as five DVDs, are available in each of Fontana’s libraries.

Morenus said, “Limited textbooks include verses from the Bible, with a verse on one page and reproduction of stained glass on the facing page; verses from favorite hymns with full-color photographs on facing pages; inspirational quotes and sayings paired with adorable animal photos; and, much more. And there are books of fashions of the ‘40s, ‘50s, ‘60s. Hudson Library even has a reproduction of a Sears 1942 Christmas book.

“We have never had anything like this collection before. [Memory Lane] fills a need that we have not previously been able to meet. and we’re really grateful to have received grant funding to enable us to create the collection for all the Fontana Regional Library locations.”

Memory Lane is made possible by funding from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the State Library of North Carolina.

by Deena Bouknight

The Most Wonderful Time of The Year

The Cashiers Christmas Parade, set for December 3, is testament to a vibrant community and an unquenchable Holiday Spirit.

Grabyour coat and gloves and head to the Cashiers Christmas Parade on December 3.

The parade starts at 3:00 P.M. but you’ll want to arrive early to park and find the perfect viewing spot. As in years past the parade marches up 107S from Cashiers School Road, turns left at the light down Highway 64, and ends by turning left on Frank Allen Road.

The theme this year is The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, and the Grand Marshall is the Cashiers Area Chamber, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary. Thomas Taulbee of the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce says that “enthusiasm is overwhelming this year and entries are already pouring in.” He expects there will be over 50 entries.

Staged entirely by local groups, churches, businesses, fire departments, friends, neighbors and families this parade celebrates both the community and the Christmas spirit and is not to be missed.

Fun and creativity are the hallmarks of this parade and it’s always great fun seeing what creative and captivating floats and entries march the route, and this year’s theme provides entrants with endless possibilities. As in years past you’re sure to see lots of animals, vintage cars, colorful costumes, creative floats, and unexpected surprises. And, of course, the precision marching and festive sounds of the Rosman Tiger Band from Rosman High School are always crowd favorites.

Entrants are reminded not to include Santa in their float as

there can be only one Santa. That’s right, the jolly old elf himself will be in attendance.

The Cashiers Area Chamber is especially grateful for the support and assistance they receive from the local Sheriff’s office and the local fire and rescue departments, who donate their talents, time and energy into ensuring everyone’s safety.

For more information call the Cashiers Area Chamber at (828) 743-5191.

by Mary Jane McCall photos by Susan Renfro

Rotary Road Rally

The Rotary Road Rally will snake through the backroads and byways of this corner of Western North Carolina, November 5. For more information, visit cashiersrotary.org.

TheRotary Club of Cashiers Valley is hosting the first Rotary Road Rally on November 5, a fundraiser to support education on the Plateau.

Part game, part leisurely scenic drive, and all business, this rally is modeled after fall traditions in other parts of the country.

Rally coordinator Michelle Hammons says, “I participated in an event for the Land Conservancy of Adams County in Pennsylvania and looked forward to the event every Fall. Our area is so beautiful and the perfect environment for a road rally. I hope this will become an event people look forward to each year.”

The road rally will take teams along about a 75-mile route throughout the afternoon with three stops along the way. Teams will be given time to enjoy the scenic views and have fun, while taking their tasks seriously. Teams will earn points by answering questions about things they see along the path, completing some dexterity challenges at the stops, counting the occurrence of

a specific feature, and completing word puzzles. They can also earn bonus points for posting pictures to social media. There is something for everyone. The team who earns the most points will be declared the winner, but all participants receive a small goodie bag.

“Whether you are new to the area or have been here for years, you’re sure to learn something new or see things in a differ ent light,” says Michelle.

The event starts at Cashiers United Methodist Church at noon with a snack box lunch provided by Crossroads Custard and ends with a finish line party at a favorite local spot where hors d’oeuvres and drinks will be enjoyed, stories swapped, scores tallied, and winners announced.

Who knows, with any luck there may be some remaining fall color, which will only enhance the experience.

by Mary Jane McCall

Feel the Parade Magic

The Highlands Christmas Parade, set for 10:30 A.M. Saturday, December 3, is a shot of pure Small-Town Holiday Cheer.

If you’ve come to the realization that Christmas is racing toward you at the pace of a runaway sleigh pulled by eight revved-up reindeer and you’re just not feeling the Spirit, the Highlands Chamber of Commerce / Visit Highlands offers the perfect tonic.

Everyone’s invited to the Highlands Christmas Parade, set for 10:30 A.M. Saturday, December 3, all along Main Street. This annual event embodies the spirit of community and small-town Main Street America.

Staged entirely by local groups, churches, businesses, fire departments, friends, neighbors and families, this parade celebrates both the community and the Christmas spirit. Folks young and old gather on Main Street wrapped in warm

sweaters, rosy cheeks glowing in anticipation of the parade Grand Marshall leading off a long line of wondrous entries. It’s recommended that you arrive early to claim a prime viewing spot and have a chance to visit with your friends and neighbors and visitors just in for the day.

You’ll see homemade floats that took long hours of volunteer labor and good times to assemble. Joining the fun will be horses; motorcycles; all-terrain vehicles; dogs; fire trucks; rescue vehicles; classic and antique cars; the Highlands School Homecoming Court, sheep, veterans, residents of Fidelia Eckerd Living Center, cheerleaders, and athletic teams; local politicians and dignitaries; Smokey The Bear; camels; donkeys; and, (we hope) the ever-popular and always well-rehearsed crowd

favorites, the dancing ladies of the Mountain Garden Club. Ending the parade, and to the delight of our youngest parade spectators, are Santa and Mrs. Claus, who always mark their calendars so they can attend this parade.

If you’d like to take part in the parade, you can apply by emailing events@highlandschamber.org or calling (828) 526-5841. And remember, Santa and Mrs. Claus have already accepted invitations to serve at the end of the parade, so please don’t add them to your display.

by Luke Osteen

Turkey, cornbread dressing, pumpkin pie, football, and family time…there are so many reasons to love Thanksgiving.

Each family has its own traditions and activities to look forward to, and for many that includes the The Village Green’s annual Thanksgiving Day 5K Run/Walk Gobble on The Green.

Held this year on Thursday, November 24, The 5K Run/ Walk begins at 9:00 A.M. and will start at The Village Green Commons.

Early registration is available now runsignup.com/Race/NC/ Cashiers/GobbleontheGreen.

Participants can register or sign up by visiting the link, The Village Green website, or by emailing Shelby@ CashiersGreen.com.

Early registrants get a commemorative Gobble on The Green 2022 t-shirt that is included in the registration price. Awards will be given to overall top male and female, as well as participants in different male and female age groups. The Village Green will also be giving away door prizes from local businesses in the community for the most spirited and/or best-dressed race participants.

In addition to the 5K, new this year will be a free Junior Warrior Course at The Village Green Playground for kiddos to have the chance to join in on the festivities. There will be different ‘obstacles’ for different age groups on the playground and each participant will receive a prize.

This event is proudly sponsored by Landmark Realty Group, Laurel Magazine, Rusticks, Ingles Markets, The Tampa Bay Trust Company, Cashiers Valley Real Estate, United Community Bank, and Spinx.

Make plans now to start Thanksgiving Day off with a bang and get in a good workout before your annual Thanksgiving feast. For additional information, visit villagegreencashiersnc.com/ gobble-on-the-green.

by Shelby Batchelor, The Village Green

Get moving! Gobble on the Green is a local tradition that puts the Turkey Trot before the turkey (and mashed potatoes).

Gobble on The Green

The Laying ofthe Wreaths

The 550 veterans interred across Highlands will be honored by Wreaths Across America, Saturday, December 17. To sponsor wreaths, sign up to volunteer, or get more information visit facebook. com/WAA/HighlandsNC, email Phil Potts at ppotts63@frontier.com, or call him at (828) 200-9753.

Mark your calendars now to attend the annual Wreaths Across America wreath laying ceremony at noon Saturday, December 17, at Highlands Community Building, followed by the laying of the wreaths at Highlands Memorial Park. Shuttles from the Community Building will be available.

This local wreath laying ceremony is part of a national network of volunteers who honor our veterans by laying wreaths all across America on the graves of veterans who served our country. Wreaths Across America began in 1992 by Morrill Worcester, owner of Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine. Since its inception this annual tribute has grown to include over 2,500 locations.

The mission of Wreaths Across America is to remember our fallen U. S. veterans, honor those who serve and teach our children the value of Freedom. Everyone is encouraged to participate as a way to honor and remember our veterans.

“We will be honoring veterans buried in Buck Creek, Clear Creek, Goldmine, Highlands, Horse Cove, Miller, and Scaly Mountain cemeteries,” said

Highlands area coordinator Phil Potts. “We need to hear from friends and family members to make sure they are on our list of veterans. We don’t want to miss anyone. If you want to sponsor a wreath, it only costs $15, and organizers will need to know if you wish to lay the wreath yourself, or if you’d like to have them do it.”

According to Potts, there are 550 local veterans’ graves, and the Friends of Highlands Chapter of Wreaths across America is planning to place wreaths upon each one.

Join Friends of Highlands to remember, honor and teach.

by Mary Jane McCall photo by Ginger Moseley

A Holiday Eveat The Farm

It’s a rollickin’ good time when Mike Kinnebrew offers Fireside at The Farm, December 15. Purchase ticktets at oldedwardshospitality.com/ fireside.

MikeKinnebrew

Envision yourself celebrating the holiday season nestled by a fireplace on a moonlight evening accompanied by the songs and guitar strumming of a charismatic performer. It all happens on Thursday, December 15, when Fireside at The Farm: A Holiday Evening with Mike Kinnebrew returns.

Once more, Kinnebrew’s holiday music will fill The Farm at Old Edwards – the quintessential setting for the season and the musician.

Kinnebrew has long endeared his Highlands audience with his lyrics about life and love. His tales, relatable and familiar, are told straight from the heart and he imagines his music as a way of creating an intimate connection with the audience.

In a recent interview with City Lights, he told host Louis Reitz that he considers one of his roles as that of a storyteller. “I talk, and I write and play to feel less alone.” Surely the success of his concerts and albums and the swell of his fan base are testimony to his talent and his ability to do so.

Weaned on the sounds that blared from the family station wagon – the Beatles, the Monkees, and Elvis – Kinnebrew eventually moved on to songwriters that seemed to be saying something more meaningful. Ultimately, he fell in love with the music of James Taylor, Jackson Browne, Tom Petty, and the

Indigo Girls. Today his music can best be described as a fusion of country and folk.

He released his first album, Between the Living and the Dying, over a decade ago. His latest album, One Way to Find Out was recorded more than 10 years later. It was, as he says, a way, “to keep the creative spark alive.”

This year’s program, a joyful marking of the season, will include favorite Christmas tunes, songs from his two albums, and a selection of the ballads and music of his mentors. As always there’s a promise of new songs currently in the works.

Kinnebrew is eagerly looking forward to returning to Highlands and fondly recalled past holiday sessions: “Magical nights of music that seem to come so often in Highlands. “’Tis the season.”

The fun extends from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Cash Bar and compli mentary light bites are included. The public is welcome.

The cost is a $25 cover charge for Old Edwards Inn and HalfMile Farm Hotel guests and members and a $40 cover charge for the public. Purchase tickets online at oldedwardshospitality. com/fireside.

by Marlene Osteen

Winter on the Green

Fewplaces on Earth inspire that magical kind of Christmas spirit like our mountain setting. By November’s end, our frozen lakes and ice-laden trees have already signified the start of the holiday transformation. But it’s the stunning tree lighting ceremony at The Village Green that is the official launch of that “most wonderful time of the year.”

On Friday, November 25, between 5:30 and 6:30 P.M., the light ing of The Village Green’s iconic Christmas Tree takes place at the Gazebo near the Cashiers Crossroads. At the familiar, cheery annual public ceremony that has long been a highlight of the holiday season, a 65-foot spruce will be lit with thousands of lights, and tens of thousands more lights will be set aglow to illuminate hundreds of the park’s trees. Hundreds of visitors are expected to congregate to witness the ceremony, shake off

the afternoon chill with a mug of hot cider, warm their hands by the fire pit and wander the winter wonderland. Best of all, the spectacular display will be on view through February 2023.

The tree lighting is just one part of an entire extravaganza to celebrate the kickoff of the holiday season. There’s also a special appearance by Santa himself. Children of all ages are invited to come and tell Santa Claus their Christmas wishes. He’ll be at Lewis Hall on Friday, November 25, from 2:00 to 5:00 P.M., and ready to listen to all those who make a reservation in advance. To reserve your time slot, go to VillageGreenCashiersNC.com/events. While you’re at the park, you’ll want to spend some time strolling the Mistletoe Market to polish off that Christmas list

The Village Green unveils a spectacular holiday season with its gala Christmas Tree Lighting, set for Friday, November 25, and extending through the New Year.

or find that unique piece of holiday décor.

On Friday, November 25, from 2:00 to 5:00 P.M., and Saturday November 26, from 10:00 to 5:00 P.M. at Lewis Hall, as many as ten local artisans will be selling handmade goods with a holiday focus. Village Green Director Ashlie Mitchell, urges everyone to “Come find that unique, one-ofa-kind gift for the naughty and nice on your list!”

All events noted are free and open to the public. However, The Village Green is a non-profit, non-governmentallyfunded public park system, and donations are always appreciated and welcomed! For more information, visit villagegreencashiersnc.com.

by Marlene Osteen

Shop witha Cop

Shop with a Cop is a Christmas Blessing to local children most in need of holiday goodwill.

Manyyears ago, Macon County Sheriff Robbie Holland started a Shop With A Cop program in Franklin. Although it is a national volunteer effort, the holiday program became one that Sheriff Holland began to champion, due to a law enforcement incident that had occurred one Christmas season.

He’d arrested a mother of three young girls right before Christmas and knew the girls would not have any presents for Christmas. He and his wife, Marcie, bought gifts and left them on the girls’ front porch on Christmas Eve.

Afterwards, Shop With a Cop became an annual effort in the region, and eventually Bill Harrell, who was the police chief of Highlands and then Franklin, worked with Sheriff Holland to bring together law enforcement volunteers to benefit underserved children throughout all of Macon County, including Highlands and Otto.

Shop With A Cop essentially provides Christmas gifts for children whose parents are incarcerated or are experiencing difficult circumstances. Local law enforcement officers aid with taking children shopping for Christmas presents. Each child taking part receives a $100 gift card to spend at Walmart in Franklin. The children are directed to purchase something for themselves and something for someone else (to give a gift instead of just receiving).

While Sheriff Holland is retiring this year, he will continue to help the new sheriff, Brent Holbrooks, with the Shop With a Cop program.

In addition, Franklin High School Sergeant Greg Rogers, school resource officer, annually takes the entire special needs class shopping as part of Shop With a Cop. Sgt. Rogers has expressed that the activity is the highlight of the year for him because of the joy experienced. After shopping, the special needs class students are taken to the local Pizza Hut; it is a special treat that Sgt. Rogers personally funds.

He said, “We have a wonderful time together and the kids are so excited. Shop With A Cop is an event like no other.”

Sheriff Holland has pointed out that one of the best benefits of Shop With a Cop is to show children and families that police officers are not bad people – that their roles in the community are about more than just making arrests.

Anyone can donate to Shop With a Cop. Mail checks to Caroline Cook at P.O. Box 2785, Highlands, N.C. 28741, or drop the check by the Highlands Police Department. Make checks out to Shop With A Cop or SWAC. Donations are deductible.

by Caroline Cook

Cashiers Designer Showhouse, 10 AM-4 PM.

Erin Gray Trunk Show, Acorns. Sentimental Journey, 2 PM & 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse.

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 - 3 PM.

The Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM.

Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 PM,

Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM. Youth Theater’s production of Fame Jr., PAC.

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:45 PM, Lewis HallVillage Green Commons. Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 PM, The High Dive.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM.

Peter Millar Trunk Show, TJ Bailey.

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 - 3 PM.

The Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM.

Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Locally Grown on The Green, 2 - 5 PM, Village Green Commons. Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry

10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM.

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:45 PM, Lewis HallVillage Green Commons.

Seventh Annual Highlands Food & Wine Festival November 10-13, Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 PM, The High Dive.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM. Peter Millar Trunk Show, TJ Bailey. Tour de France 4 PM, Skyline Lodge.

A Tour of the Rhone Valley, 6:30 PM, Vineyard at 37 High Holly Argyle Wine Dinner, 6 PM, On the Verandah Autumn Vendange Harvest Lunch, 4 PM, Highlands Wine Shoppe.

Far Niente Wine Dinner, 6:30 PM, Oak Steakhouse.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. The Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM.

Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM.

Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. The Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM. Thursday Night Trivia, 7:30 PM, The High Dive.

Mountain Findings Open 10 AM - 1 PM. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM.

Highlands Food Pantry

10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM.

The Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM.

Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub.

Happy Thanksgiving Annual Thanksgiving Day 5K Run/Walk Gobble on The Green, 9:00 AM, Village Green Commons.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM.

Summit Charter School Foundation’s Festival of Trees

10:00 AM-5:00 PM, Village Green The Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM.

Visit with Santa, 2:00 PM, Christmas on the Green.

Gala Christmas Tree Lighting, between 5:30 and 6:30 PM, The Village Green.

A Motown Christmas by the Masters of Soul, 7:30 PM, Highlands Performing Arts Center.

Highlands Food Pantry

10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church.

Highlands Food Pantry

10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church.

Highlands Food Pantry 10 AM - 6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM.

The Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM. Village Nature Series, 5 PM, Village Green Commons.

Enchanted Forest 6-7:30 PM, Highlands Botanical Garden.

The Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM.

The Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM.

Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Wine Tasting, 5:30 - 7:30 PM, Buck’s in Cashiers.

Locally Grown on The Green, 2 PM, Village Green Commons.

Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub. Art Benefit, drawing 5 PM, Betsy Paul Real Estate.

Bluegrass Wednesday, 7:30 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Marketplace, 8 AM - 12:30 PM.

Cashiers Designer Showhouse, 10 AM-4 PM.

Rotary Road Rally, cashiersrotary.org.

Kelsey-Hutchinson Park.

Highlands Marketplace, 8 AM

Erin Gray Trunk Show, Acorns. Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Bookworm , 11 AM - 3 PM.

Sentimental Journey, 2:00 & 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse. Pop-Up Pipers, 4:30 - 5:00 PM

Mountain Findings 10 AM - 1 PM. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM. The MET Opera – La Traviata by Verdi, 12:55 PM, PAC. Great Art on Screen, 5:30 PM, PAC. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Food Drive, 10 AM-1 PM, Fishes and Loaves Food Pantry. Barnas Denim Trunk Show, TJ Bailey’s. Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM.

Saturdays on Pine, 6 PM.

Brooklyn: The Musical, 2 PM and 7:30 PM, Highlands Playhouse. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Highlands Burritos side patio. Saturdays on Pine Concert, 6 PM. Concert, 6 PM, Town & Country. Bluegrass, Cashiers Smokehouse. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Highlands Marketplace, 8 AM - 12:30 PM.

Kelsey-Hutchinson Park. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Peter Millar Trunk Show, TJ Bailey. In Good Taste, 4:00 PM

Highlander Mountain House, Annual Bourbon Dinner, 6:30 PM, 4118 Kitchen and Bar.

Champagne 101 Class, 2:30 PM, Highlands Wine Shoppe Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Highlands Marketplace, 8 AM - 12:30 PM.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Bookworm 11 AM - 3 PM. Full the Van Again Event, Tractor Supply Company, Franklin, Appalachian Animal Rescue. Holiday Arts & Craft Show, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, The Bascom Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM - 2 PM. Light Up the Park & Main Festivities, 6:00 PM, KelseyHutchinson Founders Park. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Cyril Connolly

Photo: Charles Johnson

Our

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buyers.

CALL

PRINTED

4312 Highway 107 N Glenville, NC 28736 828-743-1999

DOWNTOWN

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photo by Terry Barnes

RECREATION & CREATION

Straight Up and DownBut Worth It!

My hiking companion (soon-to-be husband) com mented, after about a half-mile hike on the Lake Nantahala to Sawmill Gap section of the Bartram Trail, “I guess William Bartram didn’t believe in switchbacks.”

The beautiful, late-fall excursion involved a clearly marked path on the Bartram Trail map. However, we did not prepare for and pay attention to the elevation gain, from a starting point of 3,250 to an ending point of 4,750.

Still, the section is one that we wanted to mark off the map, with the goal of completing the entire 110 miles section of the Bartram Trail that extends from Russel Bridge in North Georgia to the top of Cheoah Bald in North Carolina. And although the trail can be reached by parking at Sawmill Gap, at Forest Road 711 off Wayah Road, to head northeast on the trail instead of southwest, a small Bartram Trail sign visible when driving on Wayah Road toward Lake Nantahala has always beckoned.

So we set out, and up.

For anyone wanting, or needing, to reach daily stair-step goals, this is the appropriate hike. While the path does level out in a few spots and does include a handful of switchbacks, it is mostly an upward climb. Yet, like most arduous hikes, the journey is certainly worth the challenge, the views, the scenery, and more.

With an Underwood Geographics waterproof detailed map in hand, the yellow-blazed Bartram Trail is clearly discernable. Plus, the map indicates blue-blazed side trails, crossings of the Appalachian Trail, all topographic features, GPS coordinates (which can be followed via the downloaded Gaia GPS app) as well as areas of interest: scenic vistas, waterfalls, historic markers, picnic areas, and camp spots.

In fact, on this 7-plus mile round-trip trail from Lake Nantahala to Sawmill Gap and back, there is a designated overnight camp spot indicated; the site offers a fire pit and

The ups and down of a fraction of the Bartram Trail is a test of the physical and mental stamina of its hikers.

expansive views. At Jarrett Bald, the highest point on the trail at 4,900 feet, the area is replete with moss-covered rocks and – in the spring through fall – a dense covering of ferns. A treasured trail discovery is the old historic Cherokee marker, a manipulated poplar tree to signify directions to past Cherokee people.

Another trail option to complete an even greater section of the Bartram Trail is to hike past Sawmill Gap to overnight at the mid-way point to Wayah Bald (around McDonald Ridge, where a camp spot is indicated on the map) and then continue the next day to Wayah Bald, where a vehicle can be left or a pickup arranged.

To learn all about the 18th century explorer, William Bartram, for whom the Bartram Trail is named, visit the site of The Blue Ridge Bartram Trail Conservancy, located in Franklin: www.blueridgebartram.org. Regular events, group hikes, and trail maintenance opportunities are available.

by Deena Bouknight

Together We CanSave Mountains

A gift to HighlandsCashiers Land Trust is a present to be cherished for Eternity.

What are you thankful for?

I hope your list is long and that at least one item includes the nature around us. If so, you probably already know that Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust has been conserving land in and around Highlands and Cashiers since 1909. But let me ask you this…have you ever thought about conserving YOUR family land?

Steps to conserving your land with HCLT

1. Collect your land parcel number and contact HCLT: hitrust@ earthlink.net, (828) 526-1111.

2. If your land donation might be a good fit, we will arrange to walk your property.

3. We will report back to you and discuss options. If you are doing a conservation easement, where you retain ownership of your property, terms can be very individualized.

4. If both parties decide to proceed, we will bring the proposal to HCLT’s board conservation committee for approval.

6. If approved by the committee, the project will be brought to HCLT’s full board for approval.

7. If approved, the land donor will ultimately need an appraisal, survey, and baseline report done for the property.

In most cases, it is best to allow approximately 12 months from initial contact to completed project.

There can be tax benefits for putting your property into a conservation easement. Current federal deduction is 50 percent AGI over six years.

When HCLT puts land into a conservation easement, we are re sponsible for monitoring that property in perpetuity. To ensure funds are available to meet this IRS dictated legal obligation, we ask for an additional donation to HCLT’s Stewardship Fund, which varies depending on the property.

In order for HCLT to accept a donation of land, it must offer some sort of conservation value for the benefit of the general public such as protecting relatively natural habitat for wildlife, fish, and plants or other similar ecosystems.

To learn how your Land Trust is conserving ecologically important land on the Plateau, visit hicashlt.org, follow us on Facebook and Instagram, or stop by our offices at the Peggy Crosby Center. Together, we can save mountains.

by Julie Schott, Development Director, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust

MountaintopWinter Sports

For some people, those mercury-plunging days and nights are an irresistible invitation to get outdoors and get busy.

Kelsey-Hutchinson

Founders Park boasts one of the most popular winter attractions on the Plateau – An iceskating rink. From November 18 to March 6 (or as long as the ice holds), skaters at any skill level are welcome. Stay all day for $5 (skate rental included). The schedule is Thursday, 1:00 to 8:00 P.M.; Friday and Saturday, 1:00 to 10:00 P.M.; and Sunday, 1:00 to 6:00 P.M. Enjoy extended hours during the Thanksgiving weekend and Christmas week. Hot chocolate and coffee are available at $1 a cup.

If you just want to spectate and toast your toes by the lowerlevel fireplace, sipping chocolate and socializing, join the crowd. (Editor’s Note: This is also a marvelous spot to catch up on local news and gossip, probably the Plateau’s longestrunning Winter activity.)

Located downtown, close to shopping and restaurants, the rink is the Highlands hub for adventures – relish the crisp weather, congenial atmosphere, and delicious food. Spend an afternoon covering Highlands’ vast shopping spectrum from retail therapy to a soul-satisfying, un-hinged binge. So much to browse. So much to buy.

That covers Winter’s ice; now what about the snow? Cast your gaze toward Sapphire Valley Ski Resort in Sapphire. They’ll be opening December 17 (weather permitting) – a 1,600-foot main run with a vertical drop of 200 feet, a learning center slope and the newly-expanded, multi-lane snow tubing run.

It’s also the site of the regionally-famous Great Sapphire Outhouse Race, set for its 16th incarnation on February 11 of next year.

Crazy? Maybe. Dangerous? Perhaps. Fun? Without a doubt! For a good cause? Definitely! This unforgettable event raises funds for local charities. If you’d like to race, build or sponsor an outhouse, please call (828) 743-2251. And then there’s all the action at Highlands Outpost in Scaly Mountain.

Have you heard about the Outpost’s Mountain Coasting, a gravitational hybrid of an Alpine Slide and a Roller Coaster? It’s 3,800 feet of thrills through the magnificent Appalachian Mountains. You can zip, plunge, and glide through Mother

Nature’s best. After a spin in 360-degree curves, the cart disengages, and gravity takes over. Guests, one or two to a cart, coast down a winding descent, using a set of hand brakes to regulate their own cart speed – up to 27 mph.

In addition to gravity-coasting, don’t miss snow-tubing at Highlands Outpost. They’ve added new tubing slopes to accommodate even more guests

From Thanksgiving weekend until March 1, you can strap on your ice skates and have a go at the Outpost’s rink. And new this year, the Outpost has opened a snow play area for littler kids, perfect for safely romping and enjoying every measure of delight to be found in a snowscape.

And if you need to take a breather from the excitement and the frosty winter air, grab a table at Blue Hound Barbecue at the base of the slope. It offers a full menu of traditional Southern favorites, plus fortifying coffee specialties and hot cocoa.

Take advantage of Outpost booking and confirmation of reservations/tickets. For more information, visit highland soutpost.com or call (828) 526-3737.

by Donna Rhodes

Birdfeeders are Good for Our Birds

For the Plateau’s winged residents, birdfeeders are vital for survival.

SunflowerSeed,Nyjer,Nectar, andSuetBirdfeeders

Everypart of the woods has its own resident birds. Locally, they’re a mixed flock of perching birds that eat seeds and bugs and sing out their identity and location. If you live in a wooded area, the mixed flock in your area comes as a gift from a Nature’s Bounty. You get to enjoy them, live among and with them. They are our neighbors and our wards. Birdfeeders are a great benefit to your birds. Birds will grow stronger and heathier if you feed them. A reliable birdfeeder in winter could stave off starvation within your resident flock. Don’t worry about not putting your feeders out for long periods when you are gone. Your birds are stronger for your having fed them and are better able to fend for themselves when the feeders are not available.

Done most beneficially, maintaining one or more birdfeeders is a daily practice, a discipline or praxis. Because bears and racoons will raid and destroy your feeders at night, feeders survive only if you bring them in every evening. It’s not much of an imposition once you form the habit.

What you get for your diligence in setting them out in the morning and bringing them in at night is close acquaintance with nature’s winged songsters. The last step in the praxis is wash your hands. Always wash your hands after handling your feeders.

If you are interested in having a birdfeeder or two on your property, what are your choices? First, basic type of feeder: there are seed feeders, suet feeders, nectar feeders and more. As a start, get any squirrel defeating seed feeder that can hold a reservoir of black oil sunflower seeds. These seeds are favored by the flashy songbirds. The best seed feeders have perching posts or a perching ring, so the birds don’t stand in their food.

Place your bird feeders where they can be seen at a distance from inside the house. Birds need their space. Ideally, you can glance at and watch the feeders from afar while moving around the house. You might need to put decals on your glass to reduce collisions. The feeders must be accessible and easy to bring in at night.

Use an app or bird book to identify your guests. Expect American Goldfinch, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, acrobatic Nuthatch, stunning Purple Finch, flaming Cardinals, wrens, sparrows, warblers and more. Every bird sight and sound are part of our rich Natural Heritage.

Happy bird watching from the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society. Visit us at highlandsaudubonsociety.org.

by William McReynolds, Highlands Plateau Audubon Society

A Read About Nature Club

Highlands Biological Foundation’s Virtual Book Club is a vibrant invitation into the fundamental workings of the Plateau and the vast world beyond.

If you’ve ever heard the quip about books, best friends, and dogs, allow me to suggest a nature-themed version: Outside of a tree, a book is man’s best friend. Inside a tree, it’s too dark to read. And without trees, we wouldn’t be reading at all!

Reading is what brings the Highlands Biological Foundation’s virtual book club together. For the last two and a half years, interested readers from the Plateau and broader western region have gathered together to discuss books such as All We Can Save, a climate change anthology edited by Drs. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson and Katharine Wilkinson, and Braiding Sweetgrass, Robin Wall Kimmerer’s reflection on her relation ship to the natural world as an Indigenous scientist.

This fall, we are diving into The Nature Fix by Florence Williams, an exploration of the science behind why nature makes us happier and healthier.

If we’re asking why, then why is the foundation hosting a book club? Certainly, there are many rich, engaging books on nature we could cover.

More than that, however, a community has formed around these texts. Whether discussing recycling in rural counties, differing ways to respect nature, or how our bodies relax when outside, our book club members find common ground, educate each other, and leave inspired to preserve and protect the

amazing places we call home. In other words, the heart of the Foundation’s mission. And as it turns out, both books and trees lead to some fantastic friendships.

Long-time member and HBF Trustee Monte Gaillard noted, “I’ve enjoyed participating because of the intellectual stimula tion provided by the book choices and connecting with others in the HBF conservation community.”

To learn more about this and other offerings provided by the Foundation, visit highlandsbiological.org. If you’re interested in joining the book club for our next season in early 2023, email Paige Engelbrektsson at paige@highlandsbiological.org.

by Paige Engelbrektsson Lead Education Specialist, Highlands Biological Foundation

Africa Awaits

Laura and Alastair Lamont make it easy to answer the siren call of an Africa waiting to be explored.

ChrisandHilaryWilkesonan AfricaAwaitsadventure.

Whilethe Plateau enchants visitors and residents alike with its breathtaking vistas, inspiring hikes, and entertaining activities, a far-away locale like Africa offers its own distinct opportunities for stellar adventures and awesome scenery. That is why Alastair and Laura Lamont founded Africa Awaits – to introduce others to Africa’s sensations.

Alastair has more than 15 years of experience working, exploring, and truly experiencing such areas as Namibia, Tanzania, and throughout the South African bush. His background as an owner, manager, ranger, and guide associated with luxury vacation accommodations in various African regions led him to want to share Africa with others in the United States, where he settled in 2018 – choosing Highlands as home because Laura’s family has long-time roots in the area. (The couple met during her Peace Corps service in South Africa.)

Laura’s global travel knowledge resulted in an ideal partnership with Alastair to begin curating safaris via Africa Awaits.

Shared Laura, “This past March, Alastair hosted Highland Hiker owners Chris and Hilary Wilkes on a safari for their first Africa exposure – a familiarization trip – for over 12 days, where they got to visit some of the top lodges in South Africa and experience the services and amenities for themselves. Highland Hiker has been the go-to spot on the Plateau for outdoor and adventure needs for a long time. This trip cemented their desire to offer Africa trips to

their clients through our company.”

“Chris and I were looking forward to a great trip,” commented Hilary Wilkes, “but what we experienced was even better than we could’ve imagined. It was truly the trip of a lifetime. We can’t wait to go back!”

Closer to home, be on the lookout for Africa Awaits’ new acquisi tion: a 1971 Land Rover. Laura explained, “A Land Rover is the iconic and historical true safari vehicle, and Alastair grew up driv ing, fixing, and exploring in his father’s various Land Rovers, some of which were the first that rolled off the factory floor – ever. He learned to drive when he was 7 years old in a 1957 Landy. We wanted our company car to be a classic and polished symbol of all that safari evokes, as well as be recognizable on the Plateau.”

Anyone in the Highlands and Cashiers areas may notice the 51-year-old Land Rover parked at places like Lonesome Valley and Old Edwards Club, as Alastair is scheduled to offer informative talks on various topics, including African wildlife and types of safaris.

“Alastair was a historical battlefield guide/storyteller before com ing to the U.S., so he definitely knows how to captivate a crowd,” shared Laura.

by Deena Bouknight

A Farewell and Thank You to Dr. Gary Wein

Dr.Gary Wein, the first and only full time executive director of the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust has announced his retirement as of Summer 2023.

He’s held the position since 2006.

Dr. Wein led the Land Trust during a period of extraordinary growth, increasing the land under its stewardship from 681 acres in 28 places in 2006 to the current holdings of 3,700 acres in 130 places.

As Dr. Wein told me, “We have quietly become the largest landholder in Highlands.”

Dr. Wein grew up in western New York, received an under graduate degree in Biology from Niagara University and a Ph.D. in Botany from Rutgers University. Before coming to HCLT he worked for the University of Georgia at the Savannah River site where plutonium is made. There he managed the Division of Wetlands Ecology, aiding a group of ecologists examining the impact of reactor operations on the environment. Later he worked for Bechtel, removing and cleaning up nuclear and hazardous waste materials.

Perhaps his greatest achievement was persuading his wife, Dr. Beverly Collins, to marry him. Dr. Collins can be credited

Dr.GaryWein

with his accepting the position at HCLT. When the lab at the Savannah River site began having financial problems and fund ing began to dry up, he knew it was time to leave. His botanist wife landed a position at Western Carolina University, giving him permission to refer to himself as a “captured spouse.”

That the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust has undergone a profound transformation under Dr. Wein’s tutelage is well known. He’s lauded for opening two new trail systems on HCLT-owned public access properties, Brushy Face Preserves in Highlands and, soon to come, the Edwards Baker Preserve in Cashiers. He’s also highly regarded for having played a pivotal role in the creation of Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. Environmentalists and naturalists praise him for negotiating conservation projects that conserve thousands of acres on the Plateau ensuring that those wild places remain in perpetuity.

As HC land Trust Development Director Julie Schott said, “He has helped countless people gain a deeper understanding of and love for our natural places as well as the plants and animals that share our common home.”

It’s significant that residents of the Plateau have benefited enormously from Dr. Wein’s presence at HCLT. He has built a robust community education program that engages school

Though he’s planning to leave Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust next summer, Dr. Gary Wein’s legacy should stay around for the next 1.2 billion years.

children to become environmentally literate adults, and has collaborated with the Highlands Biological Station, The Bascom, the International Friendship Center and the Highlands Plateau Greenway.

What is certain is that Dr. Wein will be keenly missed by his staff. Schott told me that, “Gary has been a tremen dous leader. He has always empowered and encouraged his staff to never stop growing and improving. He has not just been a director, but also a mentor and a friend.”

An influence as powerful as Dr. Wein’s will not fade away. It will live on with the team that he assembled during his tenure and of which he is justifiably proud.

As he told me recently when asked about his proudest accomplishments. “It is building a team. I have two skill sets – I talk a lot and I know how to hire really good people that make me look really good. My great joy has been to bring people on board, and we all have worked as a team to accomplish the mission of the land trust which is to protect special places for all generations.”

Dr. Wein is looking forward to retiring in Eastern Kentucky and learning how to sail the wooden boat that his father built many decades ago.

by Marlene Osteen

photo

Charles Johnson

Despite a generous life that has her pivoting between local projects, Carol Misner has still found time to cultivate a beautiful artistic style.

CarolMisner is one of those exceptional people whose puzzle piece has just the right tabs and blanks. She fits in everywhere. Dedicated to mathematics, art, technology, gardening/botanicals, business, and more, she contributes generously to the Highlands community: in the classroom, garden clubs, art organizations (The Bascom, Mountain Theatre Company), charity (former Mountain Findings president), and more. In fact, her influence goes far beyond Highlands. Distributors,

particularly of interior design, make sure giclees of her work are enjoyed internationally.

My renderings bring the outside in.

You may know Carol from a recent Laurel article featuring her and Ann Huckstep – or previous articles about her painter/illustra tor work that focuses on regional botanicals. The plants she paints are old familiar friends that decorate the mountainside. On a substrate she brushes layer upon layer of a monochromatic acrylic wash to create rich, deep images.

Her backyard is a reliable resource for inspiration. She says, “My renderings bring the outside in.”

How did her work become so in-demand? When she committed to painting (after a long career in mathematics) she was given some good advice: “Develop your own unique style – some thing to which you alone can lay claim … and then sell it.”

She dug down to her core, asking herself, “What do I love?” She loved the balance and perfection of math (and its relation to Nature). She loved botanicals. She loved working in a monochromatic color scheme. And, to make this math analogy a bit tippy, when she added these three elements together, she discovered they were more than the sum of their parts. The answer wasn’t three. It was all three – and then sum!”

Even though she’s rendered hundreds of botanical paintings,

each creation is one-of-a-kind. Many have gone into print. Those are primarily the ones distributed.

See Carol’s work locally at Acorns. To learn more about her botanicals, commissions, or firsthand viewing of her work at carolmisnerstudio.com, email c_misner@yahoo.com or call (205) 516-7961.

by Donna Rhodes

Scan to learn more.

CarolMisner

For all, We are Grateful

“The essence of all beautiful art, all great art, is gratitude.” Friedrich Nietzsche

Each day at The Bascom, we witness the creative activity of students at work in our studios, the “aha” mo ments of visitors looking at works on exhibit, the joys of being on our campus admiring the historic Will Henry Stevens Bridge or walking the Horst Winkler sculpture trail. And it seems to us that gratitude multiplies as the wonders of seeing, thinking, and doing are made available and we witness the power of art in our lives.

…our gratitude extends to all who make this daily experience possible.

partners who share with us a commitment to the role of the arts in supporting the growth and wellness of individuals and communities. And thank you also to our talented and dedicated staff who bring their best selves to work every day in service to art and its abundance.

We thank all of you who bring your curiosity, good energy, and passion for creating and experiencing the visual arts to our doors.

Drive through the covered bridge and enjoy our campus and the world of imagination it evokes, and let us all experience gratitude during the season of Thanksgiving.

Drive through the covered bridge and enjoy our campus and the world of imagination it evokes

And our gratitude extends to all who make this daily experience possible. From the visitors, students and studio members who bring their eager energy to their participation, to the volunteers who keep activities going, and to supporters who through time and treasure make all things possible. We also cherish our community

Scan to learn more.

by Karin Peterson Executive Director, The Bascom

Highlands PACYouth Theater

Highlands Performing Arts Center’s new Artistic Director is spotlighting the children of the community. Be sure to attend the PAC Youth Theater’s production of Fame Jr. starring Highlands School middle-schoolers on Thursday, November 3.

Richer

days are here for Highlands school children.

Thanks to 100 percent funding from Cullasaja Women’s Outreach, Highlands Performing Arts Center has recently launched the PAC Youth Theater Program in collabora tion with the Highlands School.

The PAC Youth Program promises to expand the horizons of the school, while providing a unique and tremendous opportunity for students to explore and learn theater. The course is under the tutelage of PAC’s new Artistic Director, Joi Chapman, who will bring instruction and experiences to students that encom pass all disciplines of theater – acting, directing, analyzing text, light and sound technique, publicity and costumes. It’s the goal of the program to integrate theater into the school curriculum and, by extension, into life.

Research shows that children who sing/dance/act/play are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement and achieve better standardized test scores. It’s the kind of education that encourages their creativity and thinking processes. By giving kids an opportunity to work on characters, memorize lines, and dig deep into plots, themes, and choices,

they’re also strengthening critical thinking skills. The arts can be the best, most therapeutic, life-changing form of personal expression and booster of self-confidence. That theater also a provides a path to enhanced cognitive, motor, and social development is simply one more plus.

The program is designed to encourage students to develop a higher sense of aspiration and a better image of themselves. As PAC Executive Director Mary Adair Trumbly explained, “All of this translates to ‘thinking’ students who become ‘thinking’ adults, which is good for our community.”

As leader of the program, Chapman brings a unique skill set and extensive background to her task. A woman of many talents, Chapman sings, acts, choreographs, and plays clarinet, saxophone and piano. In her earlier years in her native Ohio, she choreographed and directed the color guards of several high school marching bands.

Later as a teacher in the Sarasota public school system, Chapman instructed musical theater and choir to middle and elementary school children.

JoiChapman

Teaching is clearly a passion. “The best part of my job is making music with children, and watching them meet and exceed their goals,” Chapman said. She also performed with several area theater companies, and, with two colleagues, started a theater company – Rise Above Performing Arts.

Fast forward to 2020. Chapman’s husband landed a job working as a guidance counsellor for the Job Corps in Cherokee. This allowed the couple the opportunity to move closer to family living east of Asheville. About that time, PAC Executive Director Mary Adair Trumbly contacted Chapman to inquire about forming a partnership with the Highlands School.

Their connection must have been immediate because as Chapman told me; “I am thrilled to have this opportunity to work in Highlands. Having visited before, I knew I would love spending time here.”

For more information, visit HighlandsPerformingArts.com.

by Marlene Osteen

Happy Paintand Liquid Joy

TheLaurel’s March 2008 cover, here revisited and critiqued, invites you to dive into the warmth and energy Diane McPhail releases into the world through her art, writing, speaking, and humanitarianism.

Diane’s warm colors tease us with the promise of Spring and Summer. The painting is one of those divine iconic pieces that lends itself to a variety of occasions: the romantic, heart-red of Valentines, a firework of summer dahlias, the Fall’s leaf palette, and the nostalgic reds of Christmas.

“I painted this in the Fall, the year before it was the Laurel cover,” says Diane. “I survived a bilateral pulmonary emboli. It was a terrifying, life-threatening situation. After hospitalization and the beginning of recovery, I went back to my studio with my O2 tank, and I painted those fall blooms out of pure joy for being alive.”

So, if you felt a warm rush when you viewed this artwork, that’s because it’s slathered in happy paint and liquid joy.

Knowing that, if you had only one word to describe this painting, what would it be?

While thinking on that, let’s explore more elements. On first viewing, where did your eye settle? The flower arrangement?

The vase? The leaning red flower? It’s rare to see the underside of a flower in a painting. Do you think it was intentional? What term best describes the leaning flowers: Spent? Resting? Wilting? A hint of death and transfiguration? If you chose the last, the artist would concur. Living, and its companion, Dying, are interwoven.

Diane, in case you didn’t know, has a Doctorate in Ministry which explains why she is so astute in things spiritual and philosophical. She scatters her own brand of sacred in the world. The set up for this still life was created by her students on a retreat. The dominant fabric is an Indian Sari that Diane got on one of her many visits to India while she prepared her doctoral thesis.

That red sari segues us back into color. While the dominant pigment is red, the other two primaries, yellow and blue, complete a primary palette. Add to that a splash of green. In fact, there’s olive green everywhere. You just can’t see it. It’s the underpainting. Complementary colors work when painted side-by-side or one over another as long as the underlying color is dry. The undertone of green harmonizes with the red and pulls the painting together. Look at the painting again and see if that warm olive catches your eye more than before.

The complex elements woven into artist Diane McPhail’s March 2008 cover are testament to the passion at the heart of all her endeavors.

Did you note the interesting linework? Is that a product of fabric folds, a play of light and shadow, or something else? With your finger, trace the linework from the bottom of the painting to its top. Was it largely a series of diagonal tracks? Do you find the diagonal and organic lines more interesting than horizontal and vertical? Why?

Diane is a walking metaphor of positive thinking. Here, in her words, is a moving explanation of her work: “As a painter, I never plan ahead. I just launch. I start laying out shapes and forms, usually in a deep olive green (that famous olive green we discussed). I block in shadows with a big, wide, long-handled brush. I work from the shadows, moving into the light.”

Working from the shadows, moving into the light. Think of how many ways those words shade, lighten, and color every moment of the day – like painting out from negative thoughts, while brightening the positive ones.

Diane delights in sharing stories and insights. To see more of her work, visit dianemcphailart.com. For her novels, visit dianemcphailauthor.com, The Book Nook or Shakespeare & Company. Find her small work at The Bascom Gift Shop. For a studio appointment, contact dianecmcphail@gmail.com.

by Donna Rhodes

With Home for the Holidays , Mountain Theatre Company celebrates the season in grand style. Find more information at mountaintheatre.com.

Mountain Theatre Company is continuing their new tradition of a holiday show this December. After the incredible response to last year’s holiday spectacular, MTC is already anticipating this season’s Christmas show to be a big draw to Highlands and Cashiers.

Come celebrate the season as Mountain Theatre Company makes magic in the mountains this December and transforms the Playhouse stage into Santa’s North Pole workshop. Sing along to your favorite holiday songs while being dazzled by high energy choreography, beautiful costumes, a triple-threat cast, and incredible live musicians. This show is sure to be a smash. It promises to feature classic holiday tunes such as I’ll Be Home For Christmas, Go Tell It On The Mountain, Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer, Santa Claus Is Coming To Town, O Holy Night, and too many more to list here! The show is being written by MTC’s Executive Artistic Director, Scott Daniel, and if you’ve seen a Scott Daniel original, you know you’re in for a holiday treat.

MTC aims to make Home For The Holidays your new annual family holiday tradition, a production audiences of all ages will want to make sure they come to see year after year.

Daniel says, “Imagine Radio City Music Hall, throw in some fluffy sweaters and as much glitz, glam, and campy comedy as the Playhouse stage can hold, and that’s what we’re going for!” Audiences will recognize some of their favorite performers from the 2022 Mainstage Season on the Playhouse stage for this grand finale to MTC’s historically successful year. There’s certainly a lot to celebrate as MTC looks back at this season, and much more success and opportunity to come as they look forward to 2023.

So, gather the whole family, put on your fuzziest holiday sweat ers, and come celebrate the holidays at the historic Highlands Playhouse this December.

Mountain Theatre Company’s production of Home For the Holidays will run at The Highlands Playhouse from December 16 through 31.

by Lindsay Garner Hostetler, Director of Marketing and Outreach, Mountain Theatre Company

Light Up Your Life

How’s

your spelling? Not the word-spelling kind, but the sweet spells and smells that are cast from teacup candles at Natural Selection. There are seven (more coming) soy candle creations, each with its own spell or charm. Get one for a giggle. Light it and inhale a deep breath of feel good and joy.

Bevan Schiffli, Natural Selection’s owner, started making her designs during winter snow-ins. She says, “I love little teacups. I started collecting punch cups at thrift stores. I’ve amassed boxes of eclectic alternative spiritual elements. I use them in the candle cups, floating them on top as the wax hardens.”

Each cup has one of the following themes: Inspiration (sparks creativity); Cool Calm Collected (CCC lessens anxiety and distress); Head Over Heels (love spell for the self, or a partnership)

Divine Feminine (all about female empowerment and confidence)

Health and Wealth (good for the obvious)

Crystal Baller (to open the third eye and heighten psychic ability)

Lucidity Over Adversity (clarity and strength)

As soon as Bevan put her candles on the shelves, they sold like mad. She’s even making (for a few dollars more) custom designs and commissions.

But there was a lot of planning and work behind her overnight success. She had to perfect her soy recipe, the right amount of herb or spice or essential oil. To that she added a crystal or stone appropriate for the spell. Voila! A beautiful, fun, fragrant work-of art.

On Bevan’s design table is a holiday family gathering/ances tral love idea. Stay tuned to Natural Selection’s social media for its unveiling.

Candles and additional products are shippable. Give Bevan two weeks lead time for custom work. She will also wrap with hand

There’s magic in Bevan Schiffli’s candles, and sweet, soothing scents. Contact Bevan at naturalselectionhighlands@gmail.com.

stamped papers and trim with adorable ties. Bevan also enjoys offering a line of pre-made candles that she designs for the area: Main Street Candle (when matching our town’s personality to scents, the earthy; fragrance of amber musk and sage are a perfect match);

Sunset Rock Candle (leather, tobacco, amber, and musk); Whiteside Candle (pear and redwood); Nantahala Woods (evergreen and birch wood); Appalachian Christmas (evergreen, spearmint, and eucalyptus);

Next time you need something spelled, visit Natural Selection and light up a world of magic and fragrance –and light up your life.

Call her at (828) 421-3546 or visit Facebook or Instagram: Naturalselectionnc.

by Donna Rhodes

BevanSchiffli

Thanks from the Art League

The Art League of Highlands-Cashiers takes stock of a wildly successful year and invites everyone (artists and art-lovers) to celebrate its good fortune – November 7 at 11:00 A.M. at the Bridge at Mill Creek in Highlands.

Novemberis normally the month that The Art League of Highlands-Cashiers goes quiet for a few months, the month that it takes stock of the season just past and looks forward to next season.

2022 was a special year, and this November, we aren’t quite ready to let it go. It was a year of note, and it left us excited. November is also, of course, the month of Thanksgiving, and in 2022 the Art League has much for which to be thankful.

We are thankful for The Bascom, a jewel of the visual arts, in which the entire community can be proud, and that graciously hosted our monthly board and general meetings;

For our membership: those renewing in 2022 and the many new members, resulting in significant growth;

For the talented regional artists that spoke at our monthly meetings, and whose presentations were both informative and entertaining;

For our hard-working board that welcomed new members, bringing renewed energy and fresh ideas;

For the Art League’s Summer Colors Fine Art Show, its most successful member show ever, far exceeding expectations;

For our new website, artleaguehighlands-cashiers, which offers expanded exposure for member artists and enhanced

information for visitors;

For the newly-formed Publicity Committee that began publish ing an enhanced newsletter;

And for our sponsors that enthusiastically embraced the Art League’s first-ever sponsorship program.

Yes, the Art League has much for which to be thankful in 2022. Maybe that’s why we’re not quite ready to let it go. While many of our seasonal residents are away, a group of full-time members decided to continue meeting the first Monday of each month over the winter to keep the momentum going. They plan to gather for lunch and fellowship. Anyone is welcome to come, Art League members or not. The first of these meetings will be on November 7 at 11:00 A.M. at Bridge at Mill Creek. Come join us!

Stay tuned for emerging 2023 plans!

by Zach Claxton, The Art League of Highlands-Cashiers

. Scan to learn more.

A November To Remember

Talented kids, the glories of Medici Florence, and the sweet sounds of Soul set the pace for a spirited November at the Highlands Performing Arts Center.

LaTraviatabyVerdi

On Thursday, November 3, at 7:30 P.M. the partnership of the PAC Youth Theatre and the Highlands School will present Fame Jr; starring the middle school students.

The show is under the direction of Joi Chapman, PAC Youth Theatre Artistic Director and Highlands School’s Music & Drama teacher. For most of these students, it’s their first time performing in a musical. Broadway Jr. productions are based on the original Broadway productions, written specifically for grades 6-9.

Great Art on Screen returns on Friday, November 4, at 5:30 P.M. with Botticelli: Florence and the Medici. Florence in the era of the powerhouse Italian statesman, politician and patron Lorenzo de’ Medici, was the heart of Renaissance art and culture. One artist, above all others, was able to evoke the lights and shadows of this unforgettable era: Sandro Botticelli.

The MET Opera’s second live via satellite opera of the season takes place on Saturday, November 5, at 12:55 P.M.

– La Traviata by Verdi. Soprano Nadine Sierra stars as the self-sacrificing courtesan Violetta – one of opera’s ultimate heroines –in Michael Mayer’s vibrant production of Verdi’s beloved tragedy. Tenor Stephen Costello is her self-centered lover Alfredo, alongside baritone Luca Salsi as his disapproving father and Maestro Daniele Callegari on the podium.

Get your tickets now for A Motown Christmas by the Masters of Soul, the Friday after Thanksgiving, November 25, at 7:30 P.M. Masters of Soul is a celebration of the legendary songs and performers that defined Motown and soul music. This 90-min ute show features stylishly costumed, fully choreographed performances of both male and female groups backed by a live band. For many, Masters of Soul is the ultimate stroll down Memory Lane. For younger generations, the show offers an opportunity to experience an era in our country’s history that produced many of the greatest music acts ever recorded.

Based in Virginia Beach, Virginia, the 10-person cast consists of three lead male vocalists and three lead female vocalists backed by a four-piece band of seasoned musicians who’ve been touring together for decades. Masters of Soul has performed to numerous sold-out audiences and garnered rave reviews across the country at venues ranging from community theaters and universities to performing arts venues and concert halls.

Tickets are available for all shows online at HighlandsPerformingArts.com. Highlands Performing Arts Center is located at 507 Chestnut Street.

by Mary Adair Trumbly, Highlands Performing Arts Center

photo by Terry Barnes

Here for the Pizza

With its new menu, Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar once more proves that it’s mastered the rigors of a fast kitchen and a clever staff. It’s located at 465 Main Street in Highlands.

WhenMarjorie announced that Four65 was unveiling a new menu, Tricia and I, and a small coterie of friends were the first in line to snag a table.

And can you blame us? Since it burst onto Highlands Main Street prominence with its hypnotic wood-fired ovens and long, sensuous illuminated onyx bar, Four65 has earned a place on the upper echelon of the plateau’s dining ecosystem.

Of vital importance to our party was the question of whether those Wood Fired Brussel Sprouts had made it onto the new menu.

Playing with our emotions like that, Four65! But there they were at the center of the glorious Wood Fired Brussel Sprout Salad, looking for all the world like a nursery of Audrey IIs nestled among chunks of Italian sausage, caramelized onion, and slices of tart Jazz apples. What a symphony! (And it’s testa ment to the fidelity of the kitchen team that the menu delineates the vinegar that underpins this creation – Oregon Blue Pedro Ximenez 25-Year Aged Balsamic.)

But unlike my dining companions, I was there for the pizza. In previous issues, I’ve sung paeans to the Four65’s fealty to this noble ideal. Their pizza is an elevated creation that’s true to its Mediterranean roots. The tomatoes and basil are grown in the restaurant’s garden, the Bufala cheese is processed locally, and the dough is kissed by those impressive ovens for no more than 90 seconds. These pizzaiolos, whoever they are, have obviously spent years refining their craft.

Let me slip on my Scientist Chef Hat and explain why a Neapolitan Pizza is such a different creation from its New York style descendent.

When pizza began to be served in the Italian enclaves in New York City, cooks used coal-fired ovens to replicate that 700 to 1,000 degrees produced by those wood-fired stoves.

As natural gas became more economical than coal, these restaurants switched to gas ovens, which, since they couldn’t reproduce those scorching temperatures, required a longer

cooking time for the pies.

Since the traditional mozzarella just couldn’t hold up over the longer stint in the oven, American chefs substituted shredded, low-moisture mozzarella. To make up for the altered cheese formula, American pizzas were served smothered in layers of low-moisture mozzarella, while Neapolitan pies are adorned with a light application of cheese.

The same Wood-Fire/Gas dichotomy plays out in the composi tion of sauce as well. The sauce of a Neapolitan pizza is strictly tomato and salt (in fact, it’s the law in Italy). Again, that simple recipe doesn’t hold up under the longer cook time of a gas oven pizza. The sauce of New York-style pizza is a blending of tomato, sugar, and garlic, with a dash of oregano, perfect for a longer cooking time.

See, those Four65’s wood-fired ovens ensure that you’re served authentic pizza, just like the individual pies that were crafted for Savoy’s Princess Margharita over 150 years ago. I promise you’ll sense the difference immediately.

As a result, their finished products are masterpieces of flavor and, this is critical, texture. The pinnacle of 200 years of Italian culinary technique.

At its core, the menu is what gives Four65 its irresistible bistro

charm. The place can get noisy, even raucous at times, but it’s heaps of good fun, lubricated by the wise crew behind the bar. Of course, that atmosphere is curated by an attentive staff, and our server Kayla was exceptional – competent, confident, and bursting with gentle good humor. She set the tone for the meal with our introduction, and she maintained it with the careful application of her craft.

Well, once again I’ve gone too long, leaving scant room for the desserts that we somehow managed to shoehorn in. I’ll just name them here and mention that they were, in their own right, showstoppers – Dark Chocolate Walnut Brownie, Apple Crisp (made exotic and memorable with generous helpings of cinnamon and brown sugar), Olive Oil Cake framed with White Chocolate Ice Cream and Poached Peaches, and Homemade Gelato laced with Espresso that’ll light up your palate like an off-balanced pinball machine.

by Luke Osteen

Scan to learn more.

Let’s Talk About Thanksgiving Wines

The perfect wine decanted at Thanksgiving Dinner is one more thing to be grateful for.

Let’s

go ahead and add a full-bodied wine to our List of Things to Be Grateful For.

Thanksgiving is nearly here.

And once again it’s time to talk about wine. This year I’m advocating to keep it simple with two wines, one white and one red that not only hit all the right notes but are ideal companions to the flavors of the day.

The French have always known how to produce wines that allow food to sing.

Yet when most people think of French wine, they think of the luxury classified growths of Bordeaux or the grand cru wines of Burgundy – wines produced primarily from the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay varietals. But the wines I love most are far less precious – wines produced in Alsace and Beaujolais, wines made from the Riesling and Gamay grapes.

Riesling, considered by many a winemaker the finest grape variety in the world, is historically affiliated with Germany. To my mind, the very best come from Alsace where the quintessential German grape is invested with French flair. Long-time hunters, Alsatians love to pair their wines with game birds, ham and boar, and their Rieslings have the power and complexity to match any red. Among the dozens of producers of great Alsatian Rieslings, several stand out. Hugel & Fils and Trimbach are perhaps the

best-known producers, and Zind-Humbrecht is surely a favorite among connoisseurs.

As natural wines have moved into the mainstream with its winemakers acquiring hipster cachet, it’s surprising that the wines of Beaujolais are not more widely celebrated.

After all, it’s in Beaujolais where natural wines were born. No longer fitting the cliché of simple light-hearted wines, the Beaujolais vignerons of today are making essentially natural wines that combine the thirst-quenching joy inherent in gamay with the ability to exhibit the nuances of place.

Beautifully floral, they are soft, luscious wines with vibrant berry fruit that make delightful food campions. Was there ever a wine with a greater affinity for cranberry sauce? The very best are the Beaujolais crus, 10 areas in the north of the region, judged to have superior potential for making wines distinctive of their place of origin.

Visit your local wine shop – in Highlands at Highlands Wine Shoppe, Bryson’s and Mountain Fresh Grocery and in Cashiers at The Wine & Provisions Shop at the Hotel Cashiers, and the Wine Cellar of Cashiers – and ask for the wines mentioned here or suggestions for similar bottlings. And you can always email me at marlene.osteen@gmail.com.

by Marlene Osteen

Give Yourself a Cooking Break

You needn’t spend your Thanksgiving in the kitchen! Keep this list handy.

If you’re thinking about giving yourself a break on Thanksgiving this year and having someone else prepare your meal, check out these options, but remember to place your orders and make your reservations early:

Take Out Highlands

Dusty Rhodes Superette: (828) 526-2762, Sides and desserts will be available in their pre-prepared cases; Highlands Smokehouse: (828) 526-3554, Call by November 20 to reserve your meal. Pick up on Wednesday, November 23;

Mountain Fresh Grocery: (828) 526-2400, Call ahead to reserve your complete Thanksgiving dinner. Pick up at prear ranged time.

Rosewood Market: (828) 526-0383, Call ahead to reserve your main dishes, sides and desserts. Orders for main dishes and proteins must be placed by November 5. Pick up on Wednesday, November 23;

The Kitchen Carryaway: (828) 536-2110, Call ahead to reserve your soups, sides, and desserts. Pick up on Wednesday, November 23, by 2:00 P.M.

Take Out Cashiers

Cashiers Farmers Market: (828) 743-4334, They open again from November 16 until Thanksgiving. Call ahead and reserve

your turkey or ham, sides and desserts. Pick up on Wednesday, November 23;

Cashiers Valley Smokehouse: (828) 547-2096, Call ahead to reserve your ham and pies and plan to pick up on Wednesday, November 23.

Dining on the Plateau

Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bar Bistro: Highlands (828) 526-3807, Currently all reservations are booked but they wish you a Happy Thanksgiving;

Greystone Inn: (828) 966-4700, Lake Toxaway; Four65 Woodfire Bistro and Bar: (828) 787-2990, Highlands; Fire+Water at Fire Mountain: (828) 526-4446, Scaly Mountain, Serving a midafternoon classic Thanksgiving lunch with contemporary flair;

On The Verandah: (828) 526-2338, Highlands, Serving a Thanksgiving buffet between 11:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M.; Oak Steakhouse: (828) 526-4008, Highlands, Serving a Thanksgiving buffet from Noon until 6:00 P.M.;

Fressers Courtyard Café: (828) 526-8847, Highlands; Bella’s Junction Café: (828) 526-0803, Scaly Mountain; Ristorante Paoletti: (828) 526-4906, Highlands.

Wine and Dine Through Highlands

A collection of little events scattered throughout Highlands Food & Wine ensures the Wine part of the equation takes center stage.

It’s

hard to believe that the Seventh Annual Highlands Food & Wine Festival is only days away.

Once again, from November 10-13, the streets of Highlands will teem with visitors as talented chefs display their skills and tastes of their food magic are enthusiastically enjoyed by food lovers.

And food is not the only thing that is cooking over the four-day festival – there’s wine, of course. In fact, this year’s festival is predicted to be the largest yet with the most varied roster of experiences. There is much that is new at the 2022 festival. On tap are several smaller events – intriguing opportunities to examine the ever-fascinating relationship between food and wine.

Vineyard Brands presents Tour de France at Skyline Lodge

Billed as a tour of the major wine growing regions of France, the event will highlight the wines of acclaimed importer Vineyard Brands. Vice President Olivier Lotterie will il luminate, explore and taste with attendees the wines of five legendary wineries.

Friday, November 11 from 4:00 to 5:30 P.M.; $65 per person; (828) 526-4008; skyline-lodge.com

A Tour of the Rhone Valley, France at The Vineyard at 37 High Holly

The acclaimed wines of Ferraton Peres & Fils Vineyards paired

with classic French cuisine from Rosewood Chef Tim Lundy. Enjoy stunning cheeses, escargot, foie gras, duck breast and bouillabaisse with wines from Cornas, Chateauneuf du Pape, and Saint Joseph to name a few.

Friday, November 11, 6:30 P.M.; $150 per person; (828) 526-0383; rosewoodgourmet@gmail.com Argyle Wine Dinner with Chef Andrew Figel at On the Verandah

A marvelous six-course dinner with dishes selected by Chefs Andrew, Jeri and Brandi to perfectly match the selection of world-class wines from Dundee, Oregon’s Argyle Winery.

Friday, November 11, 6:00 P.M.; $195 per person plus tax and gratuity; Reservations: (828) 526-2338; ontheverandah.com

Autumn Vendange Harvest Lunch at Highlands Wine Shoppe Gather at the Highlands Wine Shoppe to celebrate the wine harvest and enjoy a delicious communal meal featuring classic French dishes with seasonally-inspired wines.

Friday, November 11, 4:00 - 5:30 P.M.; Reservations: (828) 526-4080

Far Niente Family of Wines Dinner at Oak Steakhouse Chefs Matt Weinstein of Oak Steakhouse Highlands and Scott Kroener of Oak Steakhouse Nashville collaborate to comple ment the much-lauded Far Niente family of wines (including

the beloved Nickel and Nickel) with four courses of classic steakhouse fare.

Friday, November 11, 6:30 P.M.; Reservations: (828) 526-4080

In Good Taste at Highlander Mountain House

Sustainability isn’t just a hype word, it’s a lifestyle choice. Join Tarpon Cellars founder & winemaker Jeremy Carter, Oysters Carolina’s own Ryan Bethesda, and hotelier Jason Reeves as they drink, slurp, and discuss what sustainable business choices they make and how it works for the consumer.

Saturday, November 12, 4:00 to 5:00 P.M.; $65 per person; Reservations: (828) 526-2590 highlandermountainhouse.com.

4118 Kitchen and Bar Annual Bourbon Dinner

An immersion in America’s native spirit matched with an incomparable five-course menu from 4118’s culinary whiz, Chef Adam Bresnahan

Saturday, November 12, 6:30 P.M.; $165 per person plus tax and gratuity; (828) 526-5002; 4118 kitchen-bar.com.

Champagne 101 Class at Highlands Wine Shoppe Learn, Sip, and swrill your way through France’s Champagne region.

Saturday, November 11, 2:30 - 4:30 P.M.; Reservations: (828) 526-4080

by Marlene Osteen

Make a BagFull to Share

Carole Stork’s Oatmeal Fruit/Nut Cookies are an irresistible token of Friendship and Love.

Thepackage arrived unbidden on the first day of October, one day after narrowly escaping Hurricane Ian.

It had been a harrowing, nail biting couple of days, watching Ian tear furiously through Florida barreling towards the city of Charleston, my home for the past two years.

When I saw the return address on the label emblazoned in red with “Enjoy,” I couldn’t wait. I tore it open. It was (as I knew it would be) filled with a dozen or more bite-size perfect circles of oatmeal cookie. Salty, sweet, studded with nuts, and filled with dollops of fruit and a dense trail mix, they were a welcome gift from Carole Stork.

The week before I had emailed Carole, pleading for the recipe in order to share it with Laurel readers. Carole is well known on the Plateau as the owner of Stork’s Wrap, Pack and Ship in Cashiers.

She is, as she told me, famous in her neighborhood for the cook ies, known for always taking a bag full to share with friends at get-togethers and Groovin’ on the Green at The Village Green.

One could say that it was out of frugality that Carole developed the recipe. Years ago, she noticed that her guests never ate the Brazil nuts in the salted mix she regularly served. Rather than throw them away, she started picking them out of the mix and freeze them for another use. Then one day it occurred to her that she could chop them up and add them to a cookie.

I’ll bet you can’t eat just one!

Carole Stork’s Oatmeal Fruit/Nut Cookie Yields 40 Cookies

Ingredients

1 pouch Betty Crocker Oatmeal Cookie mix.

1 stick salted butter

1 large egg

1T water

12oz. Any good trail mix with dried fruit, nuts & chocolate.

Directions

1. Pre-heat oven to 350F

2. Mix up butter, egg & water

3. Add pouch contents & trail mix to the mixture. (It will be really chunky)

4. Form into little balls, and place on and un-greased cookie sheet.

5. Bake on convection oven setting for 5 minutes, turn pan and bake an additional 5min.

6. Remove immediately to cooling racks.

Wanderview’s Epic Charcuterie Boards

Wanderview Hospitality’s exclusive creations lie at the heart of gracious entertaining. For more information, visit wanderviewhost.com.

JuquiandMattCheatham

“Find a need and fill it,” has long been the mantra of smart business. That’s exactly what Juqui and Matt Cheatham did when they opened Wanderview Hospitality last year – creating charcuterie boards and boxes and grazing tables for Plateau residents and businesses.

Today, as we return to in-person gatherings, the no-cook interactive snack board best exemplifies how we want to en tertain and eat. It was a fad that blew up during the pandemic. Imprisoned in our houses for nearly two years, we all became obsessed with either food or home improvement. After all what else was there to do? And of all the food trends – cooking beans, baking breads included – the one that seemed to best capture the collective psyche was the charcuterie board. People want to make an impression on their guests but don’t want to stress about the preparing the food.

Enter Wanderview.

As Juqui explained the genesis of the business, “My mother is a talented Mexican cook, and my father is an artist from Andalusia Spain who loves to prepare pinchos and tapas. The charcuterie service allows us to express our passion for food and to bring something good to the table while connecting with our community. Our goal is to simplify our client’s lives when it comes to hospitality and our offerings have been immensely popular with Plateau hosts. We create some incredible displays

and are committed to doing them justice by curating the best possible combinations.”

In fact, Wanderview’s epic charcuterie boards include an impressive spread of cured meats and cheese with fun accoutre ments – roasted nuts, tangy olives and fresh vegetables. Bright, plentiful, and artfully composed, they’re the kind of thing you’d expect to see at Ina Garten’s house.

At the core of what Wanderview stands for is a sense of place –all the cheeses and produce come from makers and farmers that are local. Cheeses from Western North Carolina creameries are used exclusively – including those from Looking Glass, Blue Ridge Mountain, Spinning Spider and Round Mountain. The honey on your platter is from Calm Creek Farm.

There is something immensely satisfying about a well-curated charcuterie board. It’s the perfect way to get guests to mingle over drinks. Eating becomes something of a “choose your own adventure” with so many possibilities.

As one client related, “Charcuterie is my favorite way to feed people when I’m entertaining. It offers something for everyone and doesn’t require a lot of dishes or clean up.”

by Marlene Osteen

Plateau Dining Guide

The

Bella’s Junction

Calder’s

The High

Main

476 Carolina

(828) 526-5002

Scaly (828) 526-0803

(828) 526-3807

(828) 200-9308

(828) 526-4446

Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar 465 Main Street (828) 787-2990 L, D n n n C n n 104 Fressers Courtyard Cafe Village Square, 470 Oak Street (828) 526-4188 L, D n n n C n n 99

Highlands Smokehouse 595 Franklin Road (828) 526-3554 L, D n n n C n n 109 Hummingbird Lounge 455 Main Street Highlands, NC (828) 787-2525 L n n n NC n 45 *The Kitchen CarryAway & Catering 350 S. Fifth Street (828) 526-2110

n 109 Lakeside Restaurant Smallwood Avenue (828) 526-9419

D

n n 107 Oak Steakhouse at Skyline Lodge 470 Skyline Lodge Rd (828) 482 4720 D, SB n

NC n n n 94

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

*Rosewood Market Main Street (828) 526-0383

Ugly

298 South

Street (828) 526-8364

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

n

n 99

n 105 Paoletti’s 440 Main Street (828) 526-4906

n 103

RESTAURANTS

4th Street Market - (828) 526-4191

Asia House - (828) 787-1680

Bella’s Junction Cafe - (828) 526-0803

Black

Restaurant - (828) 482-7020

The Blue Bike Cafe - (828) 526-9922

at Mill Creek (828) 526-5500

Bryson’s Deli - (828) 526-3775

The Cake Bar - (828) 421-2042

Dusty’s - (828) 526-2762

El Azteca - (828) 526-2244

Highlander Mountain House - (828) 526-2590

Highlands Burritos - (828) 526-9313

Highlands Deli SweeTreats - (828) 526-9632

Los Vaqueros Mexican Restaurant - (828) 482-7040

Madison’s Restaurant - (828) 787-2525

Midpoint (828) 526-2277

Mountain Fresh - (828) 526-2400

Ruffed Grouse (828) 526-2590

Subway - (828) 526-1706

Primary Restaurant & Bar - (828) 526-3555

Wild Thyme Gourmet - (828) 526-4035

CASHIERS AREA RESTAURANTS

Buck’s Coffee Cafe - (828) 743-9997

Canyon Kitchen - (828) 743-7967

Cashiers Valley Smokehouse (828) 547-2096

Chile Loco - (828) 743-1160

Cornucopia Restaurant - (828) 743-3750

El Manzanillo - (828) 743-5522

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

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

The Library Kitchen and Bar - (828) 743-5512

Mica’s Restaurant - (828) 743-5740

Mountain Cafe - (828) 577-0469

The Orchard - (828) 743-7614

Panthertown Cafe - (828) 862-3663

Sapphire Mountain Brewing Company - (828) 743-0220

Slab Town Pizza -(828) 743-0020

Slopeside Tavern - (828) 743-8655

Subway - (828) 743-1300

Villa Amato (828) 885-7700

Wendy’s - (828) 743-7777

Whiteside Brewing Company - (828) 743-6000

Winslow’s Hideaway - (828) 743-2226

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

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

The Chateau - (561) 613-1496

(866)

(855)

House

House

and Breakfast

(828) 526-2590

(828) 787-1186

Inn - (828) 526-9380

Inn Lodge - (828) 526-5899

Resort Rentals - (828) 526-5839

Inn at Mill Creek - 828-526-9999

Lodge at Old Edwards - (828) 787-2560

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

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

photo by Charles Johnson

Rustick’s Annual Year-End Sale

After notching 30 years of deeply personal customer service, Rusticks in Cashiers casts its gaze toward the future. You can glimpse that vision in its exclusive AfterThanksgiving Sale, November 25-26.

their 30th business anniversary, Rusticks of Cashiers, has provided furnishings and design services to many of the families calling these Western North Carolina mountains home.

Celebrating

Multiple generations of shoppers now look forward to the “famous” annual after-Thanksgiving Sale. It’s the only storewide sale event of the year and some merchandise is up to 60 percent off. Store Manager and Interior Designer Stacie Platt said, “It’s Cashiers’ version of Black Friday shopping with customers lined up for the 10:30 A.M. opening. Friday and Saturday are crazy, hectic days, but our customers have fun, find great bargains, and it allows us to prepare for next season’s inventory.”

When original owners Ann and Rody Sherrill moved to Cashiers from Lookout Mountain, Tennessee. 30 years ago,

they initially sold handcrafted hickory and cane furniture. From that “look” came the name Rusticks. While the store still offers an exclusive line of third-generation, handmade hickory and cane furniture, over the years Ann Sherrill added her own designer flair to perfect the elegant modern mountain décor for which Rusticks is now known.

When Don Gottwald purchased Rusticks two years ago, he knew it was important to keep previous owners Ann and Rody Sherrill engaged at Rusticks to make sure there was continuity in both style and feel. And then, it was serendipitous that Platt could rejoin the business after a few years away. Said Platt, “Ann hasn’t completely retired and frequently spends time in Rusticks to make sure the display still has a personal touch.”

While Platt brings her own unique style to interior design and buying inventory for the store, Ann’s influence from their years

of working together remains evident.

Rusticks has exclusive products from Wesley Hall and Lee Industries for upholstered furniture. The store has long-time relationships with lighting vendors like Visual Comfort, Uttermost, and Gabby. They also sell a large volume of outdoor furnishings from Southern Home. Platt trusts her relationships with product representatives and learns from them about trends on a larger scale. “We also seek to offer a wide range of price points – from lesser expensive to high end – but always with an eye towards quality and goods that are built to last,” says Platt. “We love it when customers return to replace a sofa, they bought 25 years ago or ask us to re-cane a chair that’s been well used by generations of their family” said Platt. “But, every year we freshen our inventory with new trends in furnishings, lighting, and accessories that are in keeping with our unique style,” she added.

Rusticks remains a seasonal business closing after the postThanksgiving sale. While the retail showroom isn’t open, plenty of work continues. Platt said her team soon be headed to the

International Home Furnishings Market in High Point and later will attend the Gift, Home & Rug Market in Atlanta to order new merchandise that will arrive in time for the April 2023 opening. Since 50 percent of Rustick’s business is personal design services, Platt remains busy over the winter. “Our customers are welcome to contact us during the off-season for interior design consultations,” she added.

To learn more about the after-Thanksgiving storewide sale or design services, visit the Rusticks’ website, leave a message on the store phone at (828) 743-3172, or email Platt at design@rusticks.com.

by Deena Bouknight photos by Susan Renfro

Scan to learn more.

CHRISTMAS STORY

This one-of a-kind, hand-carved and painted Santa features the nativity – and would be an elegant addition to your Christmas collection.

Hand Carved & Painted Santa | $ 245 The Christmas Tree | Highlands

BOOKS TO BED

Start a new Christmas Eve tradition with this adorable combo pajamas and a bedtime story book.

Books to Bed Set | $ 60 S’mores | Highlands

FOR THE BOOK COLLECTOR

Choose this thirty-three volume set from the Easton Press’s “Library of American Presidents” - and put a smile on your bibliophile’s face this Christmas.

Library of American Presidents set | $ 950 Shakespeare and Co. | Highlands

a few of our favorite finds PlateauPicks

MUST HAVE FOR FALL

What is the most elegant fall home accent? A hand-blown glass pumpkin.

Blown Glass Pumpkin | $ 32 99 Cashiers Kitchen Co. | Cashiers

AUGMENTED

SIT

WARM

FUN

Jannie Bean Designs

Jannie Bean’s gallery of unique jewelry creations demands a careful browse.

Bean of Jannie Bean Designs at 152 2nd Street in Highlands is a charming combination of creative soul and people-loving extrovert who has found her passion for creating classic and one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces for her customers.

Jannie

With Jannie’s background of over 40 years in the jewelry manufactur ing business she and her husband, Tom, were in the right place at the right time when they purchased Drake’s Diamond Gallery and rebranded the business as their own in 2016.

From engagement rings, wedding bands, sparkling gemstone pieces, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and more their jewelry cases sparkle and gleam with her creations from classic and timeless to bold and modern.

Martha Anne’s

MarthaAnne’s on the hill at 256 South 4th Street in Highlands offers shoes and apparel for the stylish woman with a sense of fashion and fun.

Imagine seasonal classics with play ful, colorful pieces that will elevate and modernize your look.

From the moment you walk through the door you will notice that Martha Anne has carefully selected her in ventory so that there’s something for everyone, and there truly are unexpected surprises throughout.

Her sense of fun and playfulness really shines in her choice of shoes that feature everyday comfortable classics, but also shoes with attitude. Think confetti-sprinkled athletic shoes or purple

The gallery is truly a place where everyone can find what they are looking for, and there is something for every budget and taste. Consider your classic sapphire, perhaps most loved in a classic ring setting sur rounded by diamonds, but available here in not only that form, but also a modest band with smaller stones, and a modern, bold one-of-a-kind statement piece.

Jannie Bean Designs is a full-service gallery and can repair, appraise or restore any of your pieces. They will also be happy to collaborate with you to design the perfect new piece, or to reimagine a piece that you have that is just too special to part with, but not quite your taste.

Stop by Jannie Bean Designs today and add some sparkle to your season.

velvet boots. You might not know that your wardrobe needs to be kicked up a notch but trust us, try them on and you’ll feel like a new woman.

For fall she offers a great selection of designer tops, coats, and sweaters that will elevate your style and keep you warm and cozy throughout the season. Whether you’re looking for solids, plaids, or more unusual prints, she offers a large selection in an array of fabrics and textures.

She also offers jewelry to complete your look so stop by and let Martha Anne and her attentive staff outfit you from head to toe. Make this your most fashionable fall and winter ever.

Jannie Bean

A visit to Martha Anne’s is a playful plunge into gracious mountain style.

Martha Anne Carmichael

AJones Company is a charm ing boutique located in the center of Cashiers Village in Chestnut Square, directly across the street from the Cashiers Farmers Market.

They offer a wide variety of curated goods for living and giving. Among their beloved lines are Johnny Was Clothing, Barefoot Dreams, Z Supply, Melissa Nepton, April Cornell linens, Nest Fragrances, and hand-crafted jewelry.

They also carry a wide array of barware, for fine entertaining or picnics. If you are looking for that perfect birthday, baby shower, graduation or hostess gift you will surely find it at A Jones Company.

Reward yourself after your shopping spree with a treat from the Cashiers Candy Shoppe which is in the same building.

A Jones Company

Choose from customer favorites such as Jelly Belly Jelly Beans or try a new small batch confection made lovingly by a small Americanowned candy maker.

Owner Amy Jones can also create custom baskets for hostess gifts, bridesmaid gifts, party favors, birth day gifts, and baskets for all seasons, incorporating gift and pampering items from A Jones Company and Cashiers Candy Shop. Bring smiles to those you love with a carefully chosen one-of-a-kind gift basket.

There’s also a delightful array of Jellycat stuffies – insanely popular with young and old alike. Your children will enjoy the visit and you’ll enjoy connecting with your inner child.

There is something for everyone at A Jones Company and Cashiers Candy Shoppe.

Bungalow Boutique

The Bungalow Boutique’s stock in trade is an abiding sense of tranquility.

The Bungalow Boutique at 21A Lance Road in Chestnut Square in Cashiers is a unique boutique that offers a care fully curated collection of items for your mind, body, home, and spirit.

Owner Mary Abranyi has long been a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services as well as a Yoga Instructor and owner of Cashiers Valley Fusion Yoga and Wellness.

With the Bungalow Boutique, she found the perfect way to meld her two professional worlds into one serene space offering her customers the chance to enrich their well-being and find unique items for their homes.

The soft aroma of essential oils greets you as you step into this peaceful oasis. From beauty products; books; yoga, workout, and leisure clothes; jewelry; candles; essential oils; healthy

snacks; and spa items, to unique pieces for your home, each product is care fully considered and chosen by Mary from companies that make a difference in the world.

Buying made in America where possible, rest assured that if not made in America her product lines are from ethical and environmentally conscious companies that give back by donating a portion of their proceeds to feed families, promote education, plant trees; or, like the American Company, Conscious Coconut, use eco-friendly packaging and manufacturing using handi capped employees.

Stop by today for a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. It’s good for you and the world. While there check out the classes and wellness services offered by Cashiers Valley Fusion.

A Jones Company is filled with things that inspire fun, happiness, and a sense of play.

Amy Jones

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WEST END

SQUARE on MAIN

after Whiteside

Club

Pharmacy

THE HILL

Mirror Lake Antiques

Jeanie Edwards Fine Art

Acorn’s

McCulley’s

Martha Anne’s on the Hill

The Ugly Dog Public House

Old Edwards Inn

Peggy Crosby Center:

The Kitchen Carry Away & Catering

Lakeside Restaurant

STREET

SPRING VILLAGE

Jannie Bean Fine Custom Jewelry

Brookings

OAK STREET

Highlands Playhouse

VILLAGE PARK

Cleaveland Realty

Shakespeare & Co. 617. Fressers Courtyard Cafe

CAROLINA VILLAGE

High Dive

Truckin’ at the High Dive

Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals

NORTH END

Green Mountain Builders 814. Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center

OUT NC 106

Aery Chiropractic

Peak Experience

High Camp

Highlands Outpost

Scaly Mountain Crafters

Highlands Aerial Park

37 Vineyard at High Holly

Fire + Water

Bella’s Junction Cafe

Pat Calderone Gallery

OUT 64 EAST

Black Rock Design Build

Berkshire Hathaway Homes Services Meadows Mountain Realty

WHLC

Highlands Lawn & Garden

Skyline Lodge/ Oak Steakhouse

Highlands Rock Yard

Center for Plastic Surgery

Allen Tate/ Pat Allen Realty Group

Highlands Dermatology

For a complete listing please visit our website, thelaurelmagazine.com. Being added to our listing is easy! Simply advertise with The Laurel.

CASHIERS

Cashiers, NorthCarolina

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

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

photo by Terry Barnes

Col. John’s Cabinat Christmas

Christmassummons memories and warms the cold days of early winter with special time with families and friends, treats and surprises and any number of wonder ful events. There are Christmas parades, spectacular lights and gingerbread decorating contests.

And at Cashiers Historical Society a visit to Col. John’s Cabin is one of the special events that has become a highlight of the Christmas season for the area school children and local and visiting families.

This year the Colonel and Sadie’s cabin will be opened for visi tors beginning Friday, November 25 through Sunday November

27 from 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. and during the school day from Monday, November 28, until the start of Christmas vacation for the area school children.

The visit to the 1840s cabin can be a wonderful beginning to the

Christmas season. All are invited to join CHS for a little bit of Christmas cheer. You can sit by the fireplace, read Christmas stories, make a craft or two, sip hot chocolate and eat Christmas cookies and other sweets. In addition, the cabin and grounds will be decorated, and both offer wonderful locations to take a family photo or two.

Cashiers Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) organization and appreciates the generosity of guests that help CHS continue the mission which includes the idea that the future may learn from the past and to help safeguard our local treasure for the future generations. Join CHS for the amazing and affordable event, its free but donations are appreciated.

For information about this and other events, contact the office at (828) 743-7710.

A visit to Col. John’s Cabin conjures memories of a gracious Christmas Season –November 25 through mid-December.

SparklingDiamond Jubilee

The arrival of cold weather on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau brought its own suite of joyful sensations.

Coldweather is coming. Residents are winterizing their homes. Ice skaters are sharpening and polishing their skates. Trees are shaking off the last of their reluctant leaves. Forests are turning a monochromatic sepia, the color of sleep. Winter’s icicles jut out from rock faces like popsicle whiskers. Jack Frost is on call, ready to coat trees and rooftops with white crystals, frost, and snow. When the sun hits just right, this wonderland will sparkle like a diamond jubilee.

In days gone by area lakes (Sequoyah, Harris, and the Hall House Lake) often froze deep enough to provide thick ice that was sawed into blocks and delivered to area ice houses. There they were covered in sawdust to preserve them into the summer months.

Before electric freezers, most folks used an ice box to keep perishables cold. If you’ve never seen one, imagine a wooden cabinet/chest with a door. The top shelf held an ice block. Underneath it, perishables were kept cold. The melting ice drained into a pipe leading to a tray under the ice box. And, yes, kitchen puddles were abundant.

Remember those popsicle whiskers? Isabel Chambers describes her dad’s ingenious ice cream bash in the dead of winter. Many folks made snow cream (milk, sugar, vanilla, salt, and snow). It was quick and fun. But Isabel’s dad upped the ante when he grabbed an ice axe, a gunny sack (burlap bag), and a bunch of helpers (kids). Off they went on an icicle hunt. When their sack

filled, they raced home, dragged out the ice cream churn, and prepared the cream.

“The cream came from our cow,” says Isabel. “My grandmother scraped it off the top of each day’s milking until we had enough to make ice cream. We added flavorings, filled the canister with the creamy concoction, placed it in a wooden tub, and latched the crank mechanism on top. Then we filled the tub surrounding the canister with icicles and salted it. The kids took their turns cranking the handle which turned the paddles. You had to sit atop the churn to keep it stable, and that froze your bum as well as the cream. As the cream froze (an hour or two), the cranking got harder and harder until finally, Dad took his turn to finish it off.”

There was a race to call dibs on licking the dasher. Isabel’s brother always called it – the one who did little work, but claimed the prize.

Ice cream sundaes were a Sunday event. In fact, when very young, Isabel thought Sundays were named after sundaes. Consider making your own Sundae diamond jubilee memory this winter. But guard it closely, friends, because, in the spirit of Isabel’s brother, I’m calling the dasher.

by Donna Rhodes photo courtesy of Highlands Historical Society

Get to Know High Glen

Tony Chambers’ pair of novels set on the outskirts of “High Glen” recall a gentle time on the Plateau.

Winteris coming—why not spend it in the cozy confines of Maxwell Hall, a few miles outside of High Glen, North Carolina?

To get there, you’ll drive through a pair of old stone gateposts and down a long tree-shaded drive. The car fords a shallow stream, the forest gives way to rolling fields, and a large, shingle-sided house with slate roof appears; great views of the mountains beyond.

Inside: “Look at this fireplace…hand-cut granite blocks done on site! The paneling is clear chestnut. Cut before the blight. The house is even framed in chestnut. Look at the tall paneled ceilings…the rooms are good size.”

This is the setting of two novels by Overton Chambers, The Inheritance (2005) and its sequel, Lost and Found (2015). I would describe these charming books as cozy mysteries/ romances/real-estate intrigues, with lots of travel to Scotland and small-town southern Appalachia, from the newspaper to the library and church.

“High Glen” will probably be very familiar to you, except that every single inhabitant appears to be a communicant of the Episcopal Church and a member of the Rotary Club.

The plot has New York editor and recent widow Cynthia McKenna inheriting the dilapidated family estate created by

her great grandfather, Lord Jeremy Maxwell, who immigrated – complete with gamekeeper – from Scotland in the early 20th century. The Maxwell family tree has many branches, and some hang over the neighbors’ fence. Complications ensue!

Cynthia decides to visit the place (she’s never been there) before selling it. Reader, she decides to keep Maxwell Hall—and the local real-estate agent, John McCloud, too. I treasure my inscribed copy of The Inheritance from his signing at Cyrano’s Bookshop; Mr. Chambers was a true gentleman, in the best sense of that word.

Growing up, Overton “Tony” Chambers II (1931-2013) spent his summers in Highlands after his father, a Chicago lumber bro ker, bought 350 acres between Buck Creek and Flat Mountain Roads in 1936. I recently spoke with Tony’s widow, Isabel Hall Chambers (together, they co-authored that wonderful history, Remembering Highlands). Mrs. Chambers told me that her husband always wanted to be a writer, and to live in Highlands year-round. After graduating from Dartmouth College and working for Life of Georgia in Atlanta, they moved here full time with their three sons in the ‘70s, starting The Chambers Agency Realty and Insurance Company.

by Stuart Ferguson, Local Historian, Co-Owner Shakespeare & Company

photo by Charles Johnson

How We Met Hiram & Mathew

The love at the heart of Hiram Wilkinson and Mathew Gillen’s relationship has taken them to the top of the mountain – Fire Mountain.

Hiddenin the woods, on a slope in the middle of the Nantahala Forest, just south of Highlands, is a secluded mountaintop boutique resort. Were it not for the chimneys that rise above the rooflines, the cluster of wood framed buildings would seem a living part of the forest. Visitors to the area know it as the Fire Mountain Inn. It’s the place where co-owners and life partners Hiram Wilkinson and Mathew Gillen have for 27 years welcomed vacationers seeking refuge and relaxation.

But I’m getting ahead of the story. To understand Fire Mountain, we must go back to the beginning – to Atlanta in the fall of 1993, when the pair first met. Mathew was working at Restaurant Chow, and Hiram, a well-known real estate devel oper and investor, managing a large portfolio of investments. Mathew recalls the evening in the restaurant’s downtown location that he was asked to serve a group that had previously requested him. “Hiram was the last person to walk in, and when I looked at him something clicked. I thought to myself he is attractive, but I shrugged it off thinking I would never see him again.”

Hiram distinctly remembers Mathew. “What had happened was that my partner of many years, a prominent surgeon, had unexpectedly died. I was in a state of no feeling, overwhelmed by the circumstances, and some friends were taking me to dinner.”

Two weeks later Mathew was working at the restaurant’s second location when Hiram was once again seated in his section. Mathew thought, “Maybe this does mean something. I decided to throw caution to the wind and do something I had never done before – I left my phone number on the check.”

The next day Hiram left town on a planned road trip with his two King Charles spaniels – visiting friends up and down the Eastern seaboard, hoping to find some resolution after the loss of his partner.

Mathew, who described his status as “carefree and living the dream,” had never been in a relationship.

“But I had an intuition that I needed to pursue getting to know Hiram better. I realized he was going through a tough time, and I felt like he needed somebody.”

Still, he was concerned that Hiram, “might have too much

MathewGillenandHiramWilkinson

on his plate to start a new relationship so soon after the last one ended.”

The day after Hiram’s return, they had their first phone conver sation, openly discussing mutual concerns.

At their first date at a neighborhood restaurant, the chemistry was instant. They spent the next weekend at Hiram’s house on Mirror Lake in Highlands. Mathew, who had never been to Highlands, swooned over the property and the area.

“I recognized right away that he’s loving, he’s kind, very caring and with a smile that could knock you over,” Hiram said. “I could not think of one fault at all – there was instant chemistry between us. How you fall in love just happens.”

He has a strength and confidence, and energy about him that I had not encountered in anyone else,” Mathew said, “And I loved that he’s very handsome and has great calf muscles.”

The relationship progressed rapidly. On a weekend day in December, returning from Mirror Lake, Hiram asked Mathew if he might “want to do something together.” Hiram had had enough of the real estate business in Atlanta. Several years earlier, he had vowed to liquidate his assets before he turned 50 and move to Highlands. They decided to see if there would be an inn that they could buy and run together – a place where they could combine their skills in hospitality and business.

They agreed that it was important to find a place near town but up on the Plateau, a spot that was secluded and where life could be centered on the outside. When they visited the Oak View Inn on Highway 106 and saw the inn with its long-range views on top of the mountain, they knew it was what they wanted. When the owners explained the business was not for sale, they left their cards. A year later, in 1996, two days before Hiram’s 50th birthday they finalized the purchase.

They have been elevating and refining the property ever since – adding a spa, a destination-worthy restaurant, and rooms, cabins, and treehouses to luxuriate in and swoon over.

The couple’s ability to bond over the day-to-day business of running Fire Mountain Inn while still having so much fun together is their superpower. They agree that doing so has been their greatest achievement; finding joy in the magical and transformative times they make possible for their guests.

“We love what we have done here,” says Mathew. “Every day we look forward to finding the next trail, one more waterfall, or experience that we can share. Following our passion is what we are about.”

by Marlene Osteen

HiramandMathew, 1994

Ouch! Cold or Hot

Managing pain requires a subtle blending of Fire and Ice.

Dr. Sue Aery

When something hurts, what should we apply? Cold or Hot?

There are many different theories, but here are my thoughts based on research and experience as an athlete and doctor.

First, is the injury acute or chronic, meaning did it just happen or is the pain persistent? If this is a new injury, then I recom mend icing for at least a period of 12 hours, right after it has happened. Icing helps to reduce the pain by constricting the blood vessels and, thereby the inflammation.

Now, some may say that those inflammatory cells are good and needed, and I don’t disagree. But, when an injury is very painful and begins to swell, icing will abate the pain and make the next day or so more manageable. Ice for intervals of 15 minutes only, then take it off and cycle again in about 90 minutes, usually enough time for an ice pack to freeze again. The off cycle of 90 minutes also allows the body to recycle the blood cells, getting rid of the damaged ones and replenishing the good and healthy ones for healing.

Those first 12 hours are critical for feeling better over the next few weeks, so remember this: RICE equals Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.

Now, heat can be used once the initial acute stage has passed,

about 12-24 hours after an injury. Heat is also good to use for chronic pain. Heat helps to open or dilate blood vessels, bringing more good blood to the area in need. It also helps with ailments like muscle strains and arthritic joints.

Think of new blood as a lubricant for old and creaky joints, helping to remove the toxins that cause more pain, opening the conduits that transport oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. The old blood can also be circulated and replaced by new and helpful blood and cells. When using heat remember to not leave it on past 15-20 minutes, otherwise it can cause more pain and unwanted inflammation, as the blood begins to pool.

One more recommendation, consider the in-between phase of healing, after the acute stage and before the chronic stage or when the body is healing. Contrast therapy is a combination of heat and ice, heat first to open the channels of new blood and what it brings and then icing to constrict and remove the unwanted cells to make room for a round of new ones. Do this for a few cycles every two hours or so and see how much better and faster you heal.

If you take the time to help your body do what it does naturally, you might be pleasantly surprised at your healing!

by Dr. Sue Aery, Aery Chiropractic & Acupuncture

WhenI think of Thanksgiving, I think of Family, Food, and Gratitude – not necessarily in that order.

Family. Refer to #4 below.

Food, sayeth this foodie, is 10,000 calories about to park in the rear, if you catch my drift. I can’t help it though. Platters filled with overwhelming deliciousness are worth every dress size gained – until that payment comes due.

As for Gratitude. I thank God for all His marvelous inventions. They are what we talk about when we say, “That’s why God invented (fill in the blank).

Here are some of His finest:

1. TV dinners, which have sustained me ever since my mother’s first nervous breakdown.

2. Carry-out. Or even better – delivery.

3. Italian and French chefs who’ve mastered a marvelous mélange – notably, pumpkin spice latte tiramisu and glorious gobs of ganache.

4. Couches and 85-inch TVs, so I can sit and watch It’s a Wonderful Life or Grinch depending upon who’s coming to dinner -- Wonderful Life, if the pleasant people come; Grinch, if Uncle Stud (for real) and Aunt Bessie crashland on the doorstep. But they probably won’t. They’re still recovering from their moonshine incident, God bless their pointy little heads.

(Note: in the South, whenever you say something shadowy about somebody else, it’s usually followed by a phrase beginning with the word, Bless.)

P.S. I lied about the 85-inch TV. I was hoping to give you screen envy. My entire living room isn’t even 85 inches wide. But after Thanksgiving, my hips will be.

5. Big ol’ turkeys with breasts approaching K-cups. We know all about DDDD brassiere cups. But did you know cups go all the way up to letter K? The mind wobbles -- and so do the boobies. Pass me some wobbler-gobbler. That’s all I’ve got to toss into the Thank-God-forinventions-jar right now. But, if I might have a brief word with the Almighty: “God, I’d like to close with a Thanksgiving supplication (or supper-cation). If a few plant species need to be sacrificed due to global warming, please consider the following: Brussel sprouts, creamed onions, rutabagas, Jell-o/marshmallow salads, squashes, and giblets.”

Bottom line: More ganache. Less squash.

by Donna Rhodes illustration by Norma Jean Zahner

More Ganache. Less Squash.

Donna’s got plenty to be Thankful for, even when she tallies up the cost.

Women Who Shapethe Plateau

MindyGreenandSalliePeterkin photobySusanRenfro

The Magic of Wolfgang’s Mindy Green

Mindy Green’s tireless efforts have boosted the profile of the entire Highlands dining scene.

JuliaChild famously said, “People who love to eat are the best people.”

Mindy Green would agree. When she and her husband opened Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro, their primary objective was to serve people superb food and excellent wine.

Over the course of nearly 30 years, she has built upon this foundation to influence and shape the food scene in Highlands.

When the Greens purchased Hildegard’s on Main Street, Mindy immediately saw its potential.

“I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit,” she says, “My dad taught me to be ‘an opportunist.’ So, I look for opportunities.”

This is a key ingredient to the success of their restaurant. She knows his strengths as a chef as well as hers as the visionary. “We complement one another well,” she observes, “He knows food and wine. I know marketing.”

Mindy is a graduate of the University of Texas with a degree in marketing and a subsequent career in sales in Dallas before moving with Wolfgang to Highlands. She employed her skills and experience to position their restaurant as a fine dining establishment.

“In the earliest days of the restaurant I introduced myself to other businesses and individuals, hotels and retailers in the community,” she recalls as a tool to spread the word. She conceptualized the outdoor pavilion, covered deck and bistro additions to the restaurant. She seized upon the niche venue demand for special occasion parties. She created menus. She formed collaborative relationships with other chefs and restau rants to bring acclaimed wines and wineries to the area.

Mindy views this as the catalyst toward contributing to Highlands growing into a food destination. “Today there are six Wine Spectator restaurants,” she says. She recognizes that this is because of local restaurants working together to enhance the dining experience with premium wine. “Silver Oak was a big influence,” she says, “The Silver Oak wine dinners were very popular and led to other wine dinners

[throughout Highlands].”

Mindy believes this sense of community is what makes the area so unique. The Green’s daughter Katie was born on Halloween, so her birthday is always in combination with the town’s grand celebration of the holiday. “All of the small-town holiday traditions are special,” she muses, “Community support is important here. I’ve always enjoyed being an active part of this community.” She remembers one event for Valentine’s Day when high school families and area chefs created a special evening for the students at the restaurant. “We served a three-course dinner to the kids for $5. Parents served and washed dishes. It was a lot of fun.”

All of the thousands of hours of planning and strategizing, coupled with that restless energy, gave Mindy a unique position in the development of Highlands and its extraordinary restau rant community.

“Mindy, along with Wolfgang, is one of the shakers and movers that helped establish the great reputation of the food and wine scene in Highlands as we know it today,” says John Woods, the General Manager of Skyline Lodge and Oak RestaurantHighlands and the past chairman of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce. “In the beginning, Mindy would answer the phones, perform all the marketing including community outreach while Chef Wolfgang brought new food concepts to the Highlands area. You must keep in mind that all this started while she was raising a family and before the purchase of alcohol was legal in Macon County. Where would we be today, without her hard work and dedication to the culinary scene in Highlands?”

The food and restaurant landscape has evolved the past three decades. Mindy calls Highlands a “foodie resort” town, less seasonal and more year around. She also appreciates how this opens new opportunities to continue to elevate the dining experience to appeal to diners’ ever-changing tastes.

Change may be inevitable, but Mindy’s continued contribution to food on the Plateau is enduring. No doubt she is already dreaming about the next ways to cater to people who love to eat.

by Ann Self

Mindy,…helped establish the great reputation of the food and wine scene in Highlands as we know it today…

A Restaurant’s Family’s Deep Roots

Sallie Peterkin’s life has revolved around delivering a deeply personal dining experience.

TheCornucopia Restaurant has an abundant history as Cashiers’ favorite porch to gather around a table and enjoy good food.

The restaurant’s family roots are deep. As a teenager, Sallie Orr Peterkin worked there as a server. It’s where she met her husband, Brien. And over the course of several years, she and her family would be influential in not only its development but also in the creation of additional restaurants in the commu nity. Her endeavors have shaped dining options for hungry residents and visitors to the Plateau for three decades.

Sallie expanded The Purple Onion, a cheese and gourmet food shop found inside The Cornucopia Restaurant.

be a culinary destination.”

Yet Sallie’s influence with the area’s eating establishments isn’t just limited to fine, upscale dining. In 2014, the Peterkins recognized an opportune time for a different kind of restaurant for Cashiers. They opened Slab Town Pizza in the shopping center of the same name in January of that year.

“We saw the success and popularity of fast casual restaurants in other places,” Sallie says, “Slab Town Pizza is fast casual with a Cashiers twist.”

…she raised the bar for the local culinary scene. Many restaurants that are here today have followed on the path that she paved.

She adds that they wanted to serve delicious food that appeals to everyone but use real plates, not paper, as well as offer high quality wine and beer.

“That was the most enjoyable venture,” she says. “I really like the process of opening a restaurant. Developing the concept is the fun, creative part.” She explains that after months of designing the space, making the menu, ordering equipment, and meeting new staff, the moment it all comes together is so rewarding.

Sallie observes that Canyon Kitchen went from a planned sports activity barn for Lonesome Valley families to a fine dining restaurant with an award-winning chef, John Fleer, in just one year. The original idea of serving simple, seasonal locally sourced food in a beautiful, rustic setting with spectacular views continues to make this a coveted reservation.

Though Sallie’s too modest to trumpet her outsized influence on the Plateau’s culinary scene, her friends aren’t.

“Sallie raised the bar for the local culinary scene,” says Sarah Jennings, who by virtue of her service on the boards of Jackson County Tourism Development Authority, Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce, Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau, Cashiers Valley Preschool and the Summit Charter School Foundation, is well aware of her friend’s impact on the Plateau.

“Many restaurants that are here today have followed on the path that she paved. Sallie’s efforts have helped elevate Cashiers to

Sallie’s son, Brien Peterkin Jr., grew up working at The Cornucopia Restaurant. He went on to graduate from culinary school in Colorado. Since then, he has been integral to the family’s restaurant enterprises.

“Young Brien recruited his friends to come to Cashiers,” she sees adding, “One of the reasons I’m still working in the restaurants is that I like being around young people. The young people keep me young.”

Sallie divides her time between Slab Town Pizza and the family’s most recent restaurant, Cashiers Valley Smokehouse on Highway 64 West. Much like before, the family created a restaurant with a fresh spin on the traditional concept of a Southern smokehouse.

Sallie has seen a lot of growth and change in Cashiers during her years in the restaurant business. However, the one constant she finds the most gratifying is the people who visit. “You meet a lot of interesting people,” she remarks, “It is a joy to provide hospitality to the customers.”

by Ann Self

Buds

Michelleand Darren Gillett did not want another dog. They were the owners of two boxer rescues, Robi (8yrs old) and Maggie (12.5 years old) and own and operate Scaly Mountain Crafters, a local artist gift shop where every item sold provides food for families in cooperation with local food banks.

Not only are Darren and Michelle the store owners, they are both class instructors. However, when a blue heeler (also known as an Australian cattle dog) began roaming around Dillard Road, where they reside, they became involved.

“It was August 2020, and everyone was trying to catch this dog to find out if he was chipped…who he might belong to,” said Michelle. “No one could get their hands on him because he was so scared, but he kept hanging around. Everyone in the area was feeding him. He would sit in the rain near the parking lots of the Scaly Mountain Post Office and Dollar General. We just felt terrible for him.”Area veterinarians and blue heeler rescue organizations were contacted to determine if anyone was missing a dog. Information about the stray was posted regularly on Facebook. No one came forward.

By November, the dog became comfortable enough that it would play with the Gillett’s boxer, Robi, when she was let out of their fenced back yard. However, he would never go inside the fenced area. And then the couple placed a dog bed and food on their front porch. The dog began sleeping and eating there regularly but still would not go inside the fenced yard or their house.

Michelle and Darren decided that if the dog ever did allow them to get close enough to establish contact, they would rehome him.

However, “Buddy,” the name they chose for the dog, had other intentions.

On December 19, over four months after Buddy showed up in Scaly, he entered the Gillett’s fenced back yard for the first time to play with Robi. Not long after Buddy was in the back yard, Maggie came out of the Gillett’s house to meet Buddy for the first time. While Buddy had been playing non-stop with Robi, when Maggie appeared through the doggie door, he stopped playing and just walked around the entire yard with Maggie.

It turns out that Buddy the blue heeler arrived in the lives of Michelle and Darren Gillett at precisely the right time.

Darrenand MichelleGillettwithBuddy

When they were finished walking, the skittish dog followed Maggie inside the house. The Gilletts could not believe that Buddy was finally in their house. For the next two days, Buddy would not leave Maggie’s side.

“I’ve been around dogs my whole life, and I hadn’t seen such a connection before,” said Michelle.

They quickly learned why. The day after Buddy decided to go inside the Gillett’s house, Maggie began showing signs of sickness. The couple soon learned she was bleeding internally from advanced cancer. She died soon after.

“We believe Buddy knew Maggie was sick and that’s why he came inside – to be with her.”

That was almost two years ago, and four-year-old Buddy is now “the friendliest” dog – advancing obediently daily to get his “work” collar on, loading in the car for the drive to the shop, and greeting everyone who enters.

“For months, people tried to get that dog into their car or in their house,” she added. “We’ve heard that blue heelers pick their family and we are so blessed that Buddy chose us.”

by Deena Bouknight

Here’s Your ‘Recession Survival’ Checklist

It’sunfortunate, but recessions are a fairly normal part of the economic landscape. When a recession occurs, how might you be affected?

The answer depends upon your individual situation, but regardless of your circumstances, you might want to consider the items in this recession survival checklist:

Assess your income stability. If your employment remains steady, you may not have to do anything different during a recession. But if you think your income could be threatened or disrupted, you might want to consider joining the “gig economy” or looking for freelance or consulting opportunities.

Review your spending. Look for ways to trim your spending, such as canceling subscription services you don’t use, eating out less often, and so on.

Pay down your debts. Try to reduce your debts, especially those with high interest

rates.

Plan your emergency fund. If you haven’t already built one, try to create an emergency fund containing three to six months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid account.

Review your protection plan. If your health or life insurance is tied to your work, a change in your employment status could jeopardize this coverage. Review all your options for replacing these types of protection.

Also, look for ways to lower premiums on home or auto insurance, without significantly sacrificing coverage, to free up money that could be used for health/ life insurance.

Keep your long-term goals in mind. Even if you adjust your portfolio during times of volatility, don’t lose sight of your long-term goals.

Trying to “outsmart” the market with short-term strategies can often lead to

missteps and missed opportunities. Don’t stop investing. If you can afford it, try to continue investing. Coming out of a recession, stock prices tend to bottom out and then rebound, so if you had headed to the investment “sidelines,” you would have missed the opportunity to benefit from a market rally.

Revisit your performance expectations. During a bear market, you will constantly be reminded of the decline of a particular market index, such as the S&P 500 or the Dow Jones Industrial Average. But instead of focusing on these short-term numbers, look instead at the long-term performance of your portfolio to deter- mine if you’re still on track toward meeting your goals.

Assess your risk tolerance. If you find yourself worrying excessively about declines in your investment statements, you may want to reevaluate your toler ance for risk. One’s risk tolerance can change over time — and it’s important

you feel comfortable with the amount of risk you take when investing.

Keep diversifying. Diversification is always important for investors — by having a mix of stocks, mutual funds and bonds, you can reduce the impact of market volatility on your portfolio.

To cite one example: Higher-quality bonds, such as Treasuries, often move in the opposite direction of stocks, so the presence of these bonds in your portfolio, if appropriate for your goals, can be valuable when market conditions are worsening. (Keep in mind, though, that diversification cannot guarantee profits or protect against all losses in a declining market.)

A recession accompanied by a bear market is not pleasant. But by taking the appropriate steps, you can boost your chances of getting through a difficult period and staying on track toward your important financial goals.

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

Todd Holder

Playing For Good

The 40th Annual Bob Jones Invitational Tournament, held at Highlands Country Club, brings in more than $230,000 for local health care needs.

Augustwas a stellar month for golfers and the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation.

The 40th Annual Bob Jones Invitational Golf Tournament resulted in more than $230,000 for Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation, established on February 1, 2019, as a 501(c)(3) public charity to improve the health and well-being of Highlands, Cashiers, and surrounding communities.

The tournament, held this year on August 13, is named after the legendary Bobby Jones and features Walker Cup players from the United States, Great Britain, and Ireland. Jones, who died in 1971, was selected to play on the United States Walker Cup Team five times and twice served as its captain. Most impor tantly and relevant to The Laurel readers, Jones loved Highlands and was instrumental in the development of Highlands Country Club, where he christened the course there by hitting the first ball when it opened in 1928.

Jones played in 31 championships and placed first or second more than 50 percent of the time. But he was also an inventor and an entrepreneur, and a line of clothing still bears his name today.

Proceeds raised during the tournament fund the Foundation’s initiatives, including the Blue Ridge Health Highlands-Cashiers Clinic, which is the Foundation’s number-one priority project due to the fact that the Clinic provides an array of services to meet the needs of many people in the region. Some services include behavioral, family medicine, pediatric medicine,

nutrition, and pharmaceutical.

After the tournament, Jim Santo, co-chair of the tournament committee, said, “We are pleased to dedicate the proceeds from the Bob Jones Invitational Golf Tournament to support the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation. Their important work supports health and well-being for families and neighbors across our Highlands and Cashiers area. Their commitment to Blue Ridge Health Highlands-Cashiers Clinic, and the local access to high quality, affordable health care, is essential to all of us.”

Supporting healthcare on the Plateau is not new to Highlands Country Club. In fact, the Bob Jones Invitational has contrib uted over $6 million to vital healthcare services and initiatives over the last 39 years.

Commented Robin Tindall, the Foundation’s CEO and Executive Director, “We are extremely grateful for our historic partnership with Highlands Country Club’s distinguished Bob Jones’ event. The generous support each year is pivotal to the Foundation’s long-term commitment to health and well-being in our communities. Thank you to everyone who participated and who worked backstage for making a profound difference as we continue our work to lift health and well-being, together.”

by Deena Bouknight

A Salute To Veterans

As the Plateau honors its veterans this Veterans Day, we wanted to showcase how a pair of local vets were recognized for their service.

LauchMagruder and PaulSchowalter

Auniqueopportunity for military veterans is to participate in an Honor Flight. This spring, a few area vets experi enced the memorable activity.

Paul Schowalter, who flew 135 combat missions in Vietnam in a F4 Phantom II aircraft, accompanied Korean War combat Veteran Lauch Magruder, author and attorney, to Washington, D.C., for their April 23 Honors Flight.

Participation in an Honor Flight gives veterans the opportunity to share a momentous occasion with other comrades, to remember friends and comrades lost, and to share stories and experiences with other Veterans. All honored veterans travel at no cost.

Schowalter and Magruder met up with other Veterans at the Asheville Airport to enjoy the “very well organized” trip to Baltimore-Washington International Airport.

“As we taxied to the gate, fire trucks welcomed us with traditional water hosing,” said Schowalter “We were also welcomed and saluted by Naval Academy cadets. As we awaited our buses, we chatted with the cadets…bright young people; the Navy’s future is in good hands! As we departed the airport, the cadets lined up to salute our departure. Wow! They organized this for me? For us?”

After a boxed lunch, veterans arrived at the Lincoln Memorial, where the Joint Services (Army/Navy/USMC/USAF/Space Command) Color Guard with a trumpeter were at the steps to

salute and welcome them. An Air Force Brigadier General also welcomed them and dedicated a wreath to signify WWII, Korea, and Vietnam losses.

After the ceremony, veterans toured the Vietnam, Korean War, and WWII memorials. A brief stop was made at the Marine Corps Memorial. Then it was on to Arlington Cemetery.

“Our final D.C. event was the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Changing of the Guard,” commented Schowalter. “We were given special front row positions. As the ‘Sergeant of the Guard’ passed our positions, he gave us a special salute … a very solemn, reverent, and dignified ceremony.”

As the men reboarded the plane to return to Asheville, they thought the day’s special events were completed.

Yet, “as we leveled off for our flight home, the captain announced: ‘Mail Call!’” said Schowalter. “Inside my box are close to a hundred ‘Welcome Home’ and ‘Thank You for Your Service’ cards and letters from family and friends. Tears stream down my face as I see the many familiar names.”

At the Asheville airport were corridors lined with bagpipers and hundreds of well-wishers.

Both men expressed that the Honor Flight solidified the “honor” of completing that long-ago military commitment.

photo by Terry Barnes

Diverse Projects

Fueled by an unquenchable desire to serve its community, The Mountaintop Rotary Club of Highlands works tirelessly to spread the money around.

RobinNealand MichaelLanzilotta

TheMountaintop Rotary Club of Highlands has been engaged in local and international service projects for the last several months and its members are looking forward to a busy November and December.

However, the club’s two large fundraisers in June and August are the Highlands Arts and Crafts shows, where there were many new and returning vendors at both annual events.

Designation; Michael Burel, Rotarian of the Year; and Jim and Lorine Spencer, President’s Award for Service.

During Dahlia Festival Weekend, the club won the Honorable Mention Judges Award, and over $600 was raised to fund a new visual arts scholarship at the Highlands School.

…dedicated all donations collected to benefit Ukrainian efforts.

Mountaintop Rotary Club of Highlands dedicated all dona tions collected during the June show, including proceeds from a raffle of original artwork to benefit Ukrainian efforts. The club collected $9,456 in donations during the show.

The August show raised $6,205 to help the Kyle McKim family; Kyle was seriously burned in a chemistry experiment accident, has endured many surgeries, and is facing more procedures in the future. He spent weeks at the Burn Unit at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta.

In August, Robin Neal received the first Non-Rotarian Community Service Award for her tireless work in the Covid Initiative. Annual awards honored four outstanding Mountaintop Rotarians: Dixie Barton, Lifetime President

Looking forward, the club is spearheading a coat drive, shoes for children drive, and a toy drive. Donation boxes are in Highlands at the First Baptist, Highlands United Methodist, Presbyterian Church of Highlands, Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church, and Community Bible Church as well as First Bank, and the Highlands Recreation Center. The Highlands Emergency Council is distributing the collected coats. The Toy Drive will be in the form of trees with “giving” ornaments located at several Highlands’ businesses. December’s Shoes for Children Drive is assisted by the administration at Highlands School. For more information about these projects, contact Jim Spencer, club service chair, at jim.spencer@ua42.org.

by Deena Bouknight

Be a Christmas Angel

Greystone Inn is inviting people across the Plateau to participate in its Angel Tree celebration, which assists local children and disabled seniors.

Lake Toxaway Charities and The Greystone Inn are again joining with Rosman area schools to provide gifts and food for over 200 pre-qualified school children, the elderly and disabled, in this fifth annual Angel Giving Tree celebration.

“This year has continued to be a difficult time for our neighbors,” says Shannon Ellis, who owns The Greystone Inn with her husband Geoff. “Holidays are joyous times, and your gift ensures these local children and seniors will know they are not forgotten.”

program by visiting The Greystone Inn website, greystoneinn.com

…Holidays are joyous times, and your gift ensures these local children and seniors will know they are not forgotten.…

The tax-deductible donation of $250 sponsors a child ages pre-K through high school, providing a complete set of new clothing from shoes to jackets along with a Christmas stocking filled with toiletries and a small gift. There’s also a larger wrapped gift from Santa for each child and if there are other children in the family, they receive a gift as well. The elderly and disabled receive a gift card with a local grocer, a blanket and a food box.

A tree hung with wooden angel ornaments will be on display at The Greystone Inn. Shannon encourages area businesses and residents to visit and select an angel – each one represents a local child or senior citizen.

“Staff at the four Rosman-area schools will shop, wrap and deliver the gifts to the students and seniors.” says Shannon. “The choice of an angel from the tree for $250, does so much good, making the holidays of families in need a little brighter, while forming a real connection between giver and recipient.”

Those not able to visit The Greystone Inn in person can support the

For more information, please call Sherry Minnich at (912) 269-6508 or Paulettte Todd at (828) 966-4700.

This fifth installment of the Angel Tree continues The Greystone Inn’s tradition of goodwill and generosity to its neighbors.

by Marlene Osteen

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How to Make a Difference

The generosity and wise counsel of Cullasaja Women’s Outreach has enriched the community, far into the future.

photobySusanRenfo

Fewpeople are better equipped to answer the question, “How can I make a difference in my community?” than the women of Cullasaja Women’s Outreach.

Sixteen years ago, women of the Cullasaja Club community were invited to respond to the question of civic empathy. The handful of ladies who gathered that first day recognized a responsibility to give back to help make life better for others on the Plateau. They recognized that with affluence comes an understood obligation to reach out to those far less fortunate.

The women envisioned a better way forward. By creating an umbrella organization, they could join together to raise funds to support the works of area non-profits. By the conclusion of their initial meeting, they pledged funding to be used for grants given collectively in the name of Cullasaja Women’s Outreach. They raised nearly $40,000 that first year. This year, the organization, now 95-women strong, raised $285,000. Since its founding, CWO has invested a total of $2,465,000 in area not-for-profit and charitable organizations.

Determining the destinations for 2022 disbursements was made by a 19-women grants committee. They conducted site visits, evaluated proposals, and analyzed requesting organizations’ financials, community impact and effectiveness.

“It’s quite a process, but it’s not cumbersome. It works beauti

fully for our grassroots, all-volunteer organization,” said Margaret Eichman, executive director. One hundred percent of funds raised were directed by the grants team to local charities and not-for-profits. All funds are remitted to CWO’s donoradvised fund, administered by the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina.

In 2022, individual grants ranging from $6,000 to $25,000 were awarded to 20 organizations.

Reflecting upon the grants, Lindy Colson Harrison, Grant Co-chair said, “Our gifts are a way of saluting and supporting the selfless people who provide safety-net services in our area.”

CWO grants work “to strengthen the Highlands/Cashiers community by helping our neighbors—enabling local programs that effectively provide medical and counseling services, as well as those that nurture literacy, arts and education, thereby enhancing the community for all.”

CWO continues to fulfill their inherent goal of “making our corner of the world a little better, one grant at a time.” Ms. Eichman observed, “Through our giving, it has become ever more apparent that changing the world for the better begins with the actions we take in our own backyard.”

For more information, visit cullasajawomensoutreach.org.

Lend a Hand. Bring a Smile.

Cashiers Cares delivers an unbreakable lifeline to Jackson County’s most vulnerable citizens. For more information, visit cashierscares.org.

It’seasy to get swept up in the beauty of the mountains, waterfalls, and scenery and to forget about our neighbors who are less fortunate.

Did you know 22 percent of the people of Jackson County live at or below the poverty level? About half of Jackson County is without adequate public infrastructure and a safety net for those in need. Residents are hungry. They can’t get where they need to go. They lack financial support for emergencies. Many residents need dental work and medical services, and they can’t afford it. Displaced women need transitional help. Scores of children and adults require tutoring and literacy assistance. Intervention and education about physical and sexual abuse is sorely lacking.

It’s phenomenally expensive to support a quarter of the popula tion of an entire county. The state doesn’t have enough funding to make ends meet in these areas, so in 2008 the Cashiers United Methodist Church, St. Jude Catholic Church, the Church of the Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, and Christ Church of the Valley pooled the seed money to form a fund-raising group to support needy charitable organizations in the area. With the help of those local churches, Cashiers Cares was able to launch their organization as an independent establishment. That means that 100 percent of the donations made today go straight to the

charities of the donor’s choice.

Cashiers Cares has three goals:

1. Raise funds for select organizations

2. Raise awareness for these organizations

3. Facilitate communication and cooperation between organiza tions and the charities that support the needy

Some of the groups Cashiers Cares provides for are Awake; Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau; Cashiers Valley Preschool; Hampton Preschool; SAFE; Pisgah Legal and Community Care Clinic.

Thanks to Cashiers Cares, conditions for Jackson County poor have improved in the past 14 years. But they still need your help.

To learn more about Cashiers Cares and how you can give a hand-up to your neighbors-in-need this holiday season and all year round, visit cashierscares.org.

by Donna Rhodes

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Literacy & Learning Needs Your Help

As the 2022/23 Highlands School Year has taken shape, a need for generous, wise tutors has arisen.

The 2022/23 school year is busy at The Literacy & Learning Center, and we need your help!

The Literacy & Learning Center truly depends on the talent and time of hundreds of community members each year to meet the needs of students of all ages.

TL&LC serves adults and children in Macon County with a variety of services and programs, all of which are free of charge and open to the public. Its passionate and committed volunteers serve as tutors, after-school teachers, administrative aides, and event helpers.

This school year, volunteer opportunities at TL&LC include:

• After-School Programs, MondayFriday 3:30 to 5:00 P.M.;

• Individual tutoring in all subjects, for one hour twice week (we will work with your schedule!);

• English as a Second Language classes, Tuesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 P.M.;

• Various events throughout the year;

• Administrative help such as organizing our library or assisting with direct mailings; Join us this school year for lots of fulfilling volunteer opportunities. Get to know some of our bright students and be part of this very rewarding experience. For more information about becoming a volunteer or tutoring, please contact Anna Norton at anorton@ theliteracyandlearningcenter.org visit www.theliteracyandlearningcenter.org, or call (828) 526-0863.

by Jenni Edwards The Literacy & Learning Center

If Only IWas Human

Zoey’s story is one of abandonment and undying hope.

Zoey

Heyeveryone, this is Zoey. I have a story to tell, and I can’t type worth a darn, so I’ve asked David to basically just take dictation and let me share what’s on my mind.

I’m 10 years old. Although there seems to be a little bit of con fusion about that. My human friends at the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society recently took me for a checkup at the doctor’s office and when they closed the door to the exam room, there was a chart on the back of the door. It basically said that if I am 10 years old, then that’s like 70 for you folks.

I’m in good health and I suppose that the only complaint I have heard about myself is that sometimes I pee a little bit when I don’t mean to. Well, according to that chart, do you know any other 70-year-old-somethings who do that sometimes? C’mon. I lived with my human companions for quite some time. But one day, they dropped me off here at this really nice facility.

It is truly a nice place. Not like a home, but it’s the next best thing. My humans felt bad about bringing me here, and they cried a little, I think. I’m not sure, because they didn’t make eye contact with me very much that day. They said they would come visit me while I was here.

They never came back. I’ve heard that sometimes humans are dropped off, too, at nice

places like where I am. And I’ve heard that their human friends and family always come to visit them and let them know how much they are loved and missed. Surely no one would ever leave a beloved human friend or family member, no matter how wonderful the place they brought them, and never come back to visit. Humans would never do that to each other. Would they?

If only I was human.

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 TuesdaySaturday 10:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M. For more information, visit us online at chhumanesociety.org or call (828) 743-5752. Tax-deductible donations to support our lifesaving work can be mailed to: CHHS, P.O. Box 638, Cashiers, NC 28717.

as told to David Stroud, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society photo by Marty Boone Scan to learn more.

Give the Horses a Hay-day!

Everyone’s gearing up for winter at Carpe Diem Farms.

November…how

did that happen?

It seems to me that 2022 just began and now we are celebrating Thanksgiving with Christmas right around the corner!

We’ve had a magnificent, colorful fall on the mountain. Brisk cool mornings giving way to Carolina blue skies. The horses “show their oats,” kicking up their heels and playfully running through the fields. Their winter coats are fluffing up, nature preparing them for winter.

Orchard Grass from one of his many farms and arranges directly with the farmers to get our hay delivered to our door. So far this year we have had to rely on hay from Oregon and Idaho – all in small quantities from our local feed store. You can only imagine what that does to the budget! With winter here the horses consume more and more hay to keep their bodies warm and nourished.

November is the month we ask our friends, family and supporters to help raise the necessary funds for hay for the horses.

November is the month we ask our friends, family and supporters to help raise the necessary funds for hay for the horses. Forage is 90 percent of the herds diet and historically we bring in two semi-trucks filled with 600-700 bales of hay from New York, Pennsylvania, or Ohio. It has been a particularly difficult year for hay, the Northeast having too much rain followed by drought. Only one cutting, instead of three has put a crimp in the hay industry.

We work with a hay broker who generally finds us perfect

If you’d like to help feed the horses of Carpe Diem Farms this winter, please send your tax-deductible gift to the address below. Be assured that every dollar raised goes directly to the hay fund. Thank you in advance!

May your Thanksgiving be bountiful and the upcoming holidays fill your heart with joy.

Carpe Diem Farms Inc. is a 501(c)(3) educational foundation, “Exploring the human potential through equines.” If you’d like to help, send your contributions to 544 Western Rhodes Drive, Highlands NC, 28741.

by Sue Blair, Carpe-Diem Farms

Pisgah LegalServes the Plateau

Pisgah Legal Services provides legal aid to the Plateau’s most vulnerable citizens. For more information, go to pisgahlegal.org or call (828) 575-1353.

ForJenny (not her real name), the abuse started at the same time her husband began using drugs. Over four long years, the violence continued to escalate. With young children at home and no friends or family in the community, she felt trapped. When her husband eventually took a knife to her throat while her children looked on, she called nonprofit Pisgah Legal Services.

“It was bleak when I reached out to Pisgah Legal Services,” Jenny explains. “I couldn’t afford lawyers. My attorney, Patricia, was just who I needed. She stuck with me and made me feel like I had a voice.”

With the help of Pisgah Legal, Jenny was able to obtain a restraining order, get a divorce and secure custody of her children. “I am in a much better place now. I have a job and the kids are happy,” she says.

Jenny’s story is one among too many in our community. The right to an attorney which is enshrined in the sixth amendment is available only to those facing criminal charges. Those who seek help with civil matters do not qualify for a government appointed lawyer.

Three years ago, with the help of area residents, attorney W. Stell Huie took steps to help provide the legal aid that the low-income population needed.

As Huie explained at an initial get-together, “Our community suffers greatly when the poor are in our midst and are hurting. Practically every individual providing the services in our shops clubs and restaurants qualifies for legal aid, and they need to be taken care of.”

In the months that followed, Huie organized breakfasts in Highlands and Cashiers and invited local retired attorneys to attend. As a result, they raised more than $100,000 – enough to convince the Board of Pisgah Legal Services in Asheville to open an office in Highlands.

Now, Since Pisgah Legal Service launched its HighlandsCashiers office in 2020, people living in poverty on the Plateau have increased access to free legal aid.

Since its opening, Pisgah Legal Services has helped more than 1,000 people in our two counties by preventing homelessness, stopping domestic violence, increasing access to health care and securing basic income.

Community Engagement Manager Megan Quattlebaum said that, “With winter approaching, the population we serve is facing a difficult time, and the need for funding is even more critical.”

Visit pisgahlegal.org or contact Megan Quattlebaum at (828) 575-1353 or email megan@pisgahlegal.org.

Promoting Sustainable Tourism

The development of the Secret Season ensures a more stable economic calendar for the Plateau.

Leisure

travel to Jackson County increased at an impres sive rate before the Pandemic.

Tourism surged as consumer preferences shifted toward destinations that offered mountains and beaches instead of crowded cities. North Carolina is now the fifth most-visited state in the country, and its popularity continues to grow as people move here from all over to immerse themselves in this beautiful place we call Home. While visitation is good for our small businesses, it presents new challenges.

When I started my career managing tourism, it was mostly about marketing the destination. Now, my role with the Tourism Development Authority includes aiming to solve many destination challenges, from workforce housing and litter to infrastructure and overcrowding.

To combat the stress that excess visitation puts on our natural resources, we’ve shifted our entire approach from promoting leaf peeping in the fall to marketing January through March, what we call our Secret Season. We create a more sustainable tourism economy by focusing on a timeframe when we need visitors and business. Our Secret Season campaign has grown overnight visitation during that period by almost 10 percent in recent years. We are also very purposeful in our marketing. For example, we encourage travelers to visit mid-week in October for the best fall foliage experience because we know the destination is already at capacity on the weekends.

Furthermore, the Jackson County TDA has recently funded

projects in Panthertown Valley in Cashiers and Pinnacle Park in Sylva to understand trail maintenance needs and overall visita tion trends to those beautiful areas. We also sponsor Cleaning Up the Mountains, the Tuck River Cleanup, Trout Unlimited’s local chapter, trail maintenance needs, the Great Smoky Mountains Association, the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, and more. Next year, we are partnering with Leave No Trace on a youth education strategy to preserve this beautiful place for generations.

The JCTDA works closely with the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce and the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce in Sylva, which operate our visitor centers, as strategic partners.

I’m proud that we have an entire committee of community stakeholders dedicated to the sustainability and stewardship of Jackson County. As a lifelong resident, I’m sensitive to who and how many people we bring to this special place. By prioritizing the high-value visitor who contributes more to the economy and environment, we can share our corner of North Carolina with others while maintaining its natural charm and beautiful, litterfree vistas. Sustainable tourism is the future, encompassing our community’s needs and visitors’ experience – it’s a win-win.

by Nick Breedlove, Executive Director of the Jackson County Tourism Development Authority

NickBreedlove

Giving Thanks toThose Who Love Highlands

Aswe begin the season of reflection, joy and grateful ness, we at the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Highlands, NC find ourselves doing a lot of counting. Not only are we counting the ways in which we are thankful to live and share the wonder and beauty of Highlands, but – more tangibly – how residents and visitors support our local economy.

Sometimes it’s easy to forget, especially in those moments we’re trying to park on Main Street or make a dining reserva tion, that the popularity and attractiveness of our town and all that it offers positively impacts our quality of life.

Let us explain.

If you took the tourism industry away from Highlands, it would cost each household an additional $30,485 in taxes each year to keep government services at the same level. In fact, visitor spending returned $18,200,000 to local taxes during the last fiscal year, according to a study prepared by Tourism Economics for Visit North Carolina. Visitor spending also provided almost $40,000,000 in tourism labor income, keeping our neighbors employed.

Visitor spending not only supports government services but also local, non-profit organizations. Last fiscal year, the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC granted more than $256,000 in occupancy tax funding to 15 non-profit

organizations that provide educational and cultural experiences to residents and visitors alike.

So, who are these visitors? Let us paint a picture. According to the most recent demographic data from Young Strategies, our visitors’ average age is 55. They are mostly female, retired and hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. They stay an average of five nights, most likely in a hotel, inn or resort. They turn to friends and family to help plan their visit.

As we love to say, a great place to live is a great place to visit. (And, as we often add, a great place to do business.) Our quality of life in Highlands is bolstered in large part by those who visit and enjoy – for a short duration – the unique lifestyle that some of us are fortunate to enjoy all year long.

Indeed, we have much for which to be grateful. Enjoy the season ahead!

For more information about the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC: highlandschamber.org or (828) 526-5841.

by Kara Addy Communications Manager, Highlands Chamber of Commerce photo by Brian O’Shea

A deep dive into the data offers plenty of reasons for gratitude underlying Life in Highlands.

5 BR / 5.5 BA Desirable location just a few minutes from Cashiers, inside the gated community of Cedar Hill, stunning views including beautiful sunsets, and newly built in 2020: your beautiful mountain getaway is here! The main level features the desirable open living concept with vaulted ceilings throughout the great room and the oversized kitchen island inviting all to gather around. The great room’s stone and wood-burning fireplace creates the perfect mountain ambiance, and effortlessly flow onto the screened Carolina porch with a second fireplace and additional decks for plenty of room to take in the gorgeous

mountain views. Living accommodations include two primary suites on the main level and one guest en-suite, two more bedrooms and a second bath on the lower level. Also on the lower level, a large family room with its own gas fireplace, provides plenty of overflow room within the home. The upstairs loft features a cozy office library and a full bath and the home’s elevator can help take you to all three floors. MLS 100304

High

4 BR / 4.5 BA This vintage mountain home, on 1.57 acres, has a “slight ranch-contemporary” character due to its low profile, earth hugging nature, and a great number of windows offering an abundance of natural light. Enter the property from a long sweeping private driveway which opens to a gentle yard with ample parking. A babbling water feature greets all at the front door. The focal point of the view is the pride of south Cashiers—ancient Rock Mountain, with Chimneytop Mountain right next to it. Enjoy the close up dramatic face of Rock Mountain from the major rooms of the home, the screened porch and the covered deck with

wood-burning fireplace. Inside, the vaulted great room has its own “rock mountain” — a giant fireplace anchoring this space and greeting guests at the foyer. This spacious home has excellent bones and generously sized rooms, and there is a bonus room on the far side of the attached carport that will work well for a home office, kids play space or home gym. Its proximity to the Inn, the Club and the Fazio reimagined golf course is enhanced by a community walking trail at the edge of the lot. This property offers great potential to be a generational home for those who embrace both the old and new High Hampton.

REDUCED

of Strawberry Hill has just undergone a full remodel and is now ready to be enjoyed! The home features one level living with two bedrooms, two baths, a bonus room, and lovely kitchen and dining area. The oversized, wrap-around deck is perfect for enjoying the gorgeous mountain summer

a deeded access point to the lake within the community, a quick drive to Happ’s Place, or an easy drive into Cashiers for more shops and restaurants, this cottage will make the perfect little summer getaway with great rental potential. MLS 100451

“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. LizHarrisBroker.com

CONSISTENTLY A TOP-RANKED BROKER ON THE PLATEAU

Harris

Snowbird

2 BR / 2 BA Snowbird is the most unique community in our area, focusing on these most desired prime attributes: large private estate parcels (all over 20 acres), beautiful long range views, frolicking streams and noisy waterfalls and a patchwork of rolling open fields connected by common hiking and horseback riding trails. This Modern Craftsman style home is oriented on a knoll facing southeast, was built to offer passive solar advantage and is Energy Star certified. At over 4000’ elevation, there is an additional, higher site on this tract that could accommodate

JUST REDUCED

Glenville

49 ACRES Sarvis Ridge ... Rolling meadow, dense woods, table flat building site at the top, over 4,020’ elevation. Small dipping pond in the meadow. The property can be divided into four parcels (5 acre minimums). The Webb Lake 1930’s cabin, common area lake and trails and caretaker home are directly across the road from this prime tract. Southern to eastern views are into the 600 acre Webb conservation easement. This heritage property has unlimited potential! MLS 98418

a guest house or private pavilion. Inside the layout is simple- primary bedroom and bath on the main level with kitchen, living/den and view porch. There is a covered breezeway leading to the large two-car garage. Downstairs is another bedroom, bath, laundry and a large common area, recently used as a craft/hobby room. This property would be an awesome retreat for artists, writers and anyone seeking peace and quiet, within the comfort of a gated neighborhood. New exterior paint in 2022!

Norton Area

$849,000

22.96 ACRES This unrestricted property offers mountain views in multiple directions. Accessed by a well constructed, long, private driveway, the original 1970s summer cabin recently burned to the ground. The primary homesite sits at 3,930’ elevation amongst large deciduous trees and a rolling mossy yard. Plenty of options for additional homesites. Location, view, topography and an existing driveway make this a prime property for an estate or light development. MLS 97957

TYPICAL SCENES AT SNOWBIRD

High Hampton $695,000

1.53 ACRES It is rare to find a resale lot in High Hampton, and this one is prime! The property is located on the “original/Inn” side of the neighborhood, which means no highway crossing is needed to walk to the great amenities. Grand potential view of famed Rock Mountain with approved clearing, this lot also fronts the Cherokee Campgrounds’ greenspace with direct access to the trail system. East to southeast views to the mountain provide sunsets “on the rock.” MLS 97439

Sassafras Ridge $175,000

4.09 ACRES Jack Knife ... This tract offers a wonderful location in Sassafras along a gentle ridge creating easy access onto the property. Gravel driveway is in, house site with framed mountain view and view overlooking Sassafras’ signature meadow. MLS 98133

High Hemlock $159,000

3.76 ACRES An absolutely beautiful homesite that is a hidden mountain gem! This lot has a mountain view of Double Knob mountain and offers a great deal of privacy. The lush wooded landscape of large hardwoods and mountain laurel is the perfect backdrop for someone to build their dream mountain home. This lot also shares a small pond with adjacent property owner. Paved access directly to the lot makes easy ingress and egress. MLS 98115

Bear Wallow Springs $100,000

4.44 ACRES Private wooded lot with plenty of building potential adjacent to the Fazio Learning Center at Lake Toxaway Country Club. Bear Wallow Springs borders Lake Toxaway which is the largest private lake in NC with 640 acres and approximately 14 miles of shoreline. This small golf-centric community offers access to the greater amenities of Lake Toxaway which includes the Lake Toxaway Country Club. MLS 98257

4118 Kitchen and Bar 4118kitchen-bar.com P 109

A Jones Company P 149

A-List Antiques P 148 Acorns P 45

ACP Home Interiors acphomeinteriors.com P 142

Aery Chiropractic aerychiropractic.com P 141 Africa Awaits africasawaits.com P 132

Allen Tate/Pat Allen Realty Group patallenrealtygroup.com P 9

Allison Diane P 40

Ann Lea Fine Art Gallery P 72

Annawear annawearnc.com P 60 Appalachian Animal Rescue P 140 Appalachian Golf Cars appalachiangolfcars.om P 168

Around Back at Rocky’s Place aroundbackatrockysplace.com P 77

Atelier Maison ateliermaisonco.com P 135

Balistreri Realty laketoxawayliving.com P 162

The Bascom thebascom.org P 90

Barbara Jamison Paintings barbarajamisonpaintings.com P 79

Bazaar Barn P 65

Bear Tracks Travel Center beartrackstravelcenter.com P 168

Bella Cotn bellacotn.com P 122

Bella’s Junction Cafe P 98

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices meadowsmountainrealty.com P 68

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices - Mary S. Abranyi realestatemaryabranyi.com P 175

Betsy Paul Art Benefit P 164

Betsy Paul Properties betsypaulproperties.com P 195

Bijou Jewelry bijoujeweler.com P 54

Bird Barn & Garden P 63

Black Rock Design Build blackrockdesignbuild-highlands.com P 86, 160

The Blue Elephant P 152

Blue Ridge Bedding blueridgebedding.com P 114

Blue Ridge Music blueridgemusicacademy.com P 89

Bombshell Hair Boutique P 194

Bounds Cave’s Rug Gallery boundscaverugs.com P 37

Brookings Fly Shop brookingsonline.com P 57

Bungalow Boutique bungalow828.com P 64 C Orrico corrico.com P 174

Calders Coffee Cafe calderscoffeecafe.com P 98

Caliber Fine Properties caliberfineproperties.com P 92, 93

Carolina Rustic Furniture carolinarusticfurniture.com P 114

Cashiers Chamber of Commerce cashiersareachamber.com P 153

Cashiers Candy Shoppe P 174

Cashiers Kitchen Company P 63

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus P 75

Center for Plastic SurgeryRobert T. Buchanan, MD plasticsurgerytoday.com P 167 Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals highlandsiscalling.com P 151, 160

Charles Johnson Fine Art Photography charlesjohnsonfineart.com P 89

Chocolate Heaven/Cake Bar P 194

Christine’s Home Decor christineshomedecor.com P 161

The Christmas Tree P 75 Classic Lighting & Design, Inc. classiclightinganddesign.com P 167 Colonel Mustard’s Specialty Foods colonelmustardshighlands.com P 60 Country Club Properties ccphighlandsnc.com P 2 Creative Concepts P 160 The Dancing Bear at the High Dive P 100 Dauntless Printing dauntlessprinting.com P 161, 176 The Designer’s Market thedesignersmarket-nc.com P 55 Diane McPhail, Artist P 88 The Dry Sink thedrysink.com P 41 Dutchmans dutchmansdesigns.com P 173 Edgewood Antiques & Fine Furnishings P 61 Edward Jones Investments edwardjones.com P 153 Elena’s Women’s Golf and Activewear elenagolf.com P 151 The Exchange P 59, 140 Fire + Water firemt.com P 15 Fire Mountain Inn & Cabins firemt.com P 15 Four Seasons Landscape fsl-wnc.com P 24 Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar four65.com P 104 Dr. Edward D. Frederickson MD FACP P 149 Fressers Courtyard Cafe wecaterhighlands.com P 99 Fusion Yoga & Wellness fusionyogaandwellness.com P 149 Gracewear Boutique gracewearcollection.com P 36 Grand Olde Station grandoldestation.com P 111 The Greystone Inn thegreystoneinn.com P 4 Green Mountain Builders greenmountainbuilders.com P 141 Head Innovations P 160 High Camp HighCampNC.com P 4 The High Dive P 100 Highland Hiker highlandhiker.com P 157 Highlands Aerial Park highlandsaerialpark.com P 50 Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation hchealthfnd.org P 155 Highlands Chamber of Commerce highlandschamber.org P 81 Highlands Dermatology highlandsdermatology.com P 149 Highlands Fine Art & Estate Jewelry Wine Shop highlandsfineart.com P 22, 23

Highlands Food & Wine Festival P 12

Highlands Lawn & Garden P 61 Highlands Outpost highlandsoutpost.com P 50 Highlands Pharmacy P 148 Highlands Rock Yard highlandsrockyard.com P 166 Highlands Smokehouse highlandssmokehouse.com P 109 Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty - Jody Lovell sothebysrealty.com P 158, 159

Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty - Andrea Gabbard sothebysrealty.com P 112, 113 Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty - Tommy Jenkins sothebysrealty.com P 169

Highlands Sotheby’s International

Realty - Sheryl Wilson highlandssir.com P 161

Highlands Transportation Company P 166

Hummingbird Lounge oldedwardsinn.com P 45

Jack’s Upholstery P 161

Jannie Bean Custom Jewelry janniebeandesigns.com P 165

Jeanie Edwards Fine Art jedwardsfineart.com P 74

Jennings Builders Supply jbwnc.com P 170

Josephine’s Emporium P 148, 161

John Cleaveland Realty jcrealty.com P 28

Joyce Smith Mortgages joycesmithmortgages P 27 King Background Screening kingbackgroundscreening P 160

The Kitchen

CarryAway and Catering thekitchenofhighlands.com P 109 Lake Toxaway Company laketoxaway.com P 80

Lakeside Restaurant P 107

Landmark Realty Group landmarkrg.com P 10

Landmark Realty Group - Pam Nellis landmarkrg.com P 161

Laura Moser Art lauramoserart.com P 5

Las Margaritas P 106 Lehotsky & Sons lehotskyandsons.com P 59. 160

Lenz Gifts & Luxury Linens P 178 Leslie Jeffery, Artist lesliejeffery.art P 74

The Look Boutique P 21 Lupoli Construction lupoliconstruction.com P 35 Main Street Gifts P 169 Main Street Nursery P 179 Marlene & Co P 133 Martha Anne’s P 64 Martin Lispcomb Performing Arts Center highlandsperformingarts.com P 73, 91 McCulley’s P 3 McKee Properties mckeeproperties.com P 33, 42, 43,182-191 McKee Properties - Liz Harris mckeeproperties.com P 186, 188 189 McKee Properties - Beth Townsend mckeeproperties.com P 33, 187, 190, 191

Mirror Lake Antiques mirrorlakeantiques.com P 25

Morales Painting P 65 Mountain Spring Spas and Pools mountainhotspring.com P 17 Mountain Theatre Company mountaintheatre.com P 83

Mountainworks

Custom Home Design, Ltd. mtnworks.com P 53

Nancy’s Fancys P 59, 140

Nearly New nearlynewnc.com P 58 Nora & Co P 19

Oak Steakhouse oaksteakhousehighlands.com P 94 Old Edwards Inn & Spa oldedwardsinn.com P 45, 160

On the Verandah ontheverandah.com P 105 Pat Calderone calderonegallery.com P 88

Peggy Marra peggymarra.com P 79 Peak Experience peakexp.com P 39 Preferred Properties of Highlands - Ann Scott ppoh.com P 161

ProServicess P 161

Rabun Flooring rabunflooring.com P 132

Reach of Macon County reachofmaconcounty.org P 148

Rebecka’s Home Cleaning Service P 160

Rent In Highlands-CCP rentinhighlands.com P 143

Ristorante Paoletti paolettis.com P 99 Rosewood Market rosewoodgourmet.com P 103 Rusticks rusticks.com P 11, 156

Sapphire Valley Real Estate sapphirevalleyrealestate.com P 62

Sashay Around P 19

Scaly Mountain Crafters scalymtncrafters.com P 85 Shakespeare and Company shakespeareandcompanyhighlands.com P 133 Shiraz shirazruggalleries.com P 177 Silver Creek Real Estate Group

ncliving.com P 46-49 Skyline Lodge skyline-lodge.com P 94

Slanted Window Tasting Room P 67 Smitten P 85

S’more Kids Klothes P 74 Southern Way P 27 The Spa Boutique at Old Edwards Inn oldedwardsinn.com P 45 Spoiled Rotten spoiledrotten2.com P 39

Stork’s Wrap, Pack & Ship P 15

The Summer House by Reeves summerhousehighlands.com P 32 Tarah’s Beauty Bar P 160

Terry Warren Fine Art terrywarren.com P 77

TJ Bailey’s for Men tjbmens.com P 123 Town and Country General Store tandcgeneralstore.com P 134

The Toy Store P 67

The Ugly Dog Pub - Highlands theuglydogpub.com P 101 Vic’s for Men victoriasclosetnc.com P 58

Victoria’s Closet victoriasclosetnc.com P 58 Victoria’s Sportswear victoriasclosetnc.com P 58

The Village Green villagegreencashiersnc.com P 128 Village Hound P 29

The Vineyard at 37 High Holly thevineyardathighholly.com P 152

Vivianne Metzger Antiques vmantiques.com P 34

Wanderview Hospitality wanderviewhost.com P 107 Warth Construction warthconstruction.com P 196

The Watershed Shoppe P 87 WHLC FM 104.5 whlc.com P 17

Wilbanks Smile Center - Dr. Joe Wilbanks wilbankssmilecenter.com P 136

Willow Valley willowvalleyrv.com P 172

Wit’s End P 171

Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro wolfgangs.net P 5 Woofgang Bakery & Grooming P 175 Zoller Hardware zollerhardware.com P 63, 161

The Zookeeper Bistro thezookeeperbistro.com P 106