November 2023: The Laurel Magazine by The Laurel Magazine of Highlands NC and Cashiers NC

a e

L UR L The Heart of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau

Rusticks

Annual Year-End Sale Nov. 24 and 25 pg. 128

Creating Art Saved Her

Cover Artist, Nancy Delahaye November 2023

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CON T E N T S November 2023

13 What To Do

16 Highlands Food & Wine Festival

61 Recreation & Creation 64 Winter Outdoor Fun

79 Arts

86 The Art of Todd Wolfe

97 Dining

110 Who’s Serving Thanksgiving?

125 Shopping

126 Plateau Picks

106

139 History

140 Cashiers History

147 Lifestyles & Wellness 150 We Are Thankful

169 Giving Back

174 Greystone Inn’s Angel Tree

188 Business

190 Leadership Highlands

148

188

Started in Friendship

New Leadership

At a Glance Guides

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VOLUME TWENTY-ONE, ISSUE TEN

JANET CUMMINGS Managing Partner janet@thelaurelmagazine.com

MARJORIE CHRISTIANSEN Managing Partner marjorie@thelaurelmagazine.com

MICHELLE MUNGER Art Director mungerclan5@aol.com

SARAH FIELDING Account Manager sarah@thelaurelmagazine.com

LUKE OSTEEN Editor / Writer luke@thelaurelmagazine.com

DONNA RHODES Writer dmrhodes847@gmail.com

MARLENE OSTEEN Writer marlene.osteen@gmail.com

MARY JANE MCCALL Writer mjmccall777@gmail.com

DEENA BOUKNIGHT Writer dknight865@gmail.com

THOMAS CUMMINGS Distribution Manager jothcu@yahoo.com

Publisher’s Note Welcome to our November Issue! Since the month contains both Thanksgiving and the launch of the Christmas Season, it’s freighted with all sorts of events big and small that we’re delighted to preview. But please know that this issue is infused with a profound sense of gratitude. We’re grateful to our advertisers, whose trust has allowed us to tell the story of Highlands and Cashiers for 21 years. And, of course, we’re grateful to our readers. This Labor of Love is our way of saying Thanks to 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

Contributing Writers: Mary Adair Trumbly, Sue Blair, David Stroud, William McReynolds, Sue Aery, Zach Claxton, Ashby Underwood, and Mary Abranyi. Contributing Photographers: Susan Renfro, Greg Clarkson, Charles Johnson, Peter Ray, Terry Barnes, Ryan Karcher, and Colleen Kerrigan. Copyright © 2023 by The Mountain Laurel, LLC. All rights reserved. Laurel Magazine is published eleven times per year. Reproduction without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publishers and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication subject to Laurel Magazine’s right to edit. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, photographs and drawings. Every effort has been made to assure that all information presented in this issue is accurate, and neither Laurel Magazine nor any of its staff is responsible for advertising errors, omissions, or information that has been misrepresented in or to the magazine. Any substantial errors that are the fault of the magazine will be subject to a reduction or reimbursement of the amounts paid by the advertiser, but in no case will any claim arising from such error exceed the amount paid for the advertisement by the advertiser.

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photo by Charles Johnson

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November’s Pause to Remember

The traditions of this month spool fond memories of past times.

ovember is a time for nostalgia, remembrances of Thanksgivings passed as the family grew with children adding spouses and grandchildren. In our troubled and troubling world, memories of past times, and their innocence, are surprisingly comforting. Simpler times, some long passed. In his November poem in “The Shepherd’s Calendar,” John Clare (1793-1864) nostalgically remembers the life of a lowly English shepherd: misty mornings, calling the unseen flock, “toil hath time to play and industry delights.” Mr. Clare is recognized as one the greatest English language nature poets.

The plains, that seem without a bush or tree, Whistling aloud by guess, to flocks they cannot see. The owlet leaves her hiding-place at noon, And flaps her grey wings in the doubling light; The hoarse jay screams to see her out so soon, And small birds chirp and startle with affright; Much doth it scare the superstitious wight, Who dreams of sorry luck, and sore dismay;

The Shepherd’s Calendar - November

While cow-boys think the day a dream of night,

The landscape sleeps in mist from morn till noon;

And oft grow fearful on their lonely way,

And, if the sun looks through, ‘tis with a face

Fancying that ghosts may wake, and leave their graves by day.

Beamless and pale and round, as if the moon,

Thus wears the month along, in checker’d moods,

When done the journey of her nightly race,

Sunshine and shadows, tempests loud, and calms;

Had found him sleeping, and supplied his place.

One hour dies silent o’er the sleepy woods,

For days the shepherds in the fields may be,

The next wakes loud with unexpected storms;

Nor mark a patch of sky - blindfold they trace,

A dreary nakedness the field deforms -

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Yet many a rural sound, and rural sight, Lives in the village still about the farms, Where toil’s rude uproar hums from morn till night Noises, in which the ears of Industry delight. At length the stir of rural labour’s still, And Industry her care awhile forgoes; When Winter comes in earnest to fulfil His yearly task, at bleak November’s close, And stops the plough, and hides the field in snows; When frost locks up the stream in chill delay, And mellows on the hedge the jetty sloes, For little birds - then Toil hath time for play, And nought but threshers’ flails awake the dreary day. Happy November traditions and remembrances. William McReynolds

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Grace Potter

Chuck Leavell

Four Days of Excellence The sounds of Highlands Food & Wine are blended to each event with a concierge’s care. For more information, visit highlandsfoodandwine.com.

rom its beginnings in 2016, music has been an important Matt Koziol: A true-blue country-rock artist, with strong ingredient in the success of the Highlands Foods & vocals and a talent for telling relatable stories – It’s rocks, it’s Wine Festival. And it’s never been truer than this year, tender and it drifts between genres seamlessly when the weekend brings together End of the Line: The premiere Allman an impressive roster of top talent in a Brothers tribute band, they are making range of genres from soul to country a name for themselves with a sound …the ideal accompanito gospel and rock – each note and as classic and heavy as the original ment to four days of rhythm in perfect harmony with the brothers themselves. culinary excellence… South’s best culinarians. Saturday, November 11, Much like fine wine that complements The Main Event: a memorable meal, the festival’s Katie Pruitt: Singer-songwriter, curated music line up promises to be the ideal accompaniment soaring vocalist, and agile guitarist, Pruitt is a dynamic new to four days of culinary excellence in a sensory extravaganza presence, blending folk and country with indie rock - writing that transcends mere entertainment - a full-blown celebration of personal lyrics about topics ranging from her sexuality and all that is remarkable about the region’s gastronomy and culture. mental health to family and faith. Thursday, November 9, Grand Tasting: Grace Potter: Grace Potter possesses a big, passionate voice and Southern Avenue: What happens when a Black American a gift for wandering America’s musical landscape as if it were gospel singer raised in a devout Baptist family in Tennessee a private playground. The singer-songwriter has built a loyal teams up with a White blues-soul guitarist raised in a fanbase for over 20 years and four full-length albums under the devout Jewish family in Israel? This is the musical ensemble banner Grace Potter & the Nocturnals. As a solo artist, she’s Southern Avenue – a family affair featuring husband, wife been Grammy-nominated (for her 2019 release “Daylight”) in and two sisters. the rock category. Friday, November 10: Truckin’ Saturday, November 11, A Generous Pour

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Matt Koziol

Chuck Leavell: Considered one of the greatest pianists in rock ‘n roll history, Chuck Leavell played for the Allman Brothers Band while they were at their peak and joined the Rolling Stones in 1981. He’s played on record and live with Eric Clapton, George Harrison, John Mayer, the Black Crowes, and, of course, the Rolling Stones. Leavell and surprise guests will perform from his impressive catalog at this festival fundraising event. Sunday, November 12, A Shot at Redemption The Harlem Gospel Travelers: Drawing on the gospel quartet traditions of the 50’s and 60’s but with a modern edge, their songs are bold and resilient, fueled by dazzling vocal arrangements. The War & Treaty: A married couple, they are acclaimed for their impassioned soul music that draws on traditional, folk, country, R&B, and spirituals, often combining them all. Named Duo/Group of the Year for the second consecutive time at the 2023 Americana Awards, they also recently earned their first nomination for Vocal Duo of the Year at the 2023 CMA Awards. by Marlene Osteen

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Gobble on The Green

Gobble on the Green is a pre-turkey dinner turkey trot, set for 9:00 A.M. Thursday, November 23, at the Village Green in Cashiers.

f the prospect of settling into a post-Thanksgiving dinner stupor leaves you weary and wary, the Village Green has a tradition that’s sure to get your mind and body into the correct spirit of the holiday – its 5K Run/Walk turkey-trot, Gobble On the Green, set for 9:00 A.M. Thursday, November 23. Be sure to register before November 7 to receive a 2023 commemorative Turkey Trot t-shirt. Early packet pickup will be on Wednesday, November 22 from 3:00 to 6:00 P.M. at The Village Green’s Lewis Hall at 160 Frank Allen Road. On this date and time, you can check in early and get your bibs and t-shirts. Awards will be presented on the Common’s Lawn stage at 9:30 A.M., followed by random 18 N o v e m b e r 2 0 2 3 | T H E L A U R E L M AG A Z I N E . C O M

drawings for local door prizes. Participants must be present to receive prizes. In addition to the 5K, The Village Green offers the second annual Junior Warrior Course, a scavenger hunt type of obstacle course for children in different age groups on Thanksgiving morning. The Junior Warrior Course will be staged at The Village Green Playground starting at 9:30 A.M. and is free for all children. No registration is required and prizes will be awarded to all Junior Warriors. You can register for Gobble on The Green 2023 by going to RunSignUp.com/GobbleOnTheGreen.

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“The Village Green endeavors to enhance community life. Events in The Village Green provide a window into the pleasurable pursuits and beloved traditions that make Cashiers so special,” says Ashlie Mitchell, Executive Director of The Village Green. “Make plans now to Gobble On the Green before your feast and do the Turkey Day wobble!” The Village Green is a privately conserved beautiful, free public space for everyone to enjoy. Visit The Village Green website at villagegreencashiersnc.com for a full calendar of events. For additional information or to make a donation to The Village Green, call (828) 743-3434 or email info@ villagegreencashiersnc.com. by Luke Osteen

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Community Thanksgiving Dinner Highlands will be staging a Community Thanksgiving Dinner Celebration at Highlands Rec Park Gym at 6:00 P.M. Tuesday, November 21.

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ocal, part-timer, person-justpassing-through, committed church-goer, genial agnostic, confident atheist, gobbler of turkey, vegetarian – everyone is invited to join their neighbors at the Highlands Community Thanksgiving Supper, set for Tuesday, November 21, at Highlands Rec Park. A project of the Town of Highlands and local churches and community organizations, the meal is free (although donations are welcome) and represents a marvelous opportunity to connect with

neighbors and forge new friendships. It’s also a means of considering our many blessings and a chance to remember the less fortunate. As in previous Highlands Thanksgiving Dinners, everyone is invited, with the food delicious and the conversations lively. In fact, it’s very much in keeping with the Highlands Community Table, which is taking a pause until spring. by Luke Osteen

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Festival of Trees The Cashiers Festival of Trees is a singularly Plateau-y introduction to the Holiday Season – Friday and Saturday, November 24-25 at The Summit Center.

he Summit Charter School Foundation is once again holding their Cashiers Festival of Trees fundraiser on Thanksgiving weekend, Friday, November 24, and Saturday, November 25, from 10:00 A.M. until 5:00 P.M. at the Summit Center at 370 Mitten Lane. This is the perfect place to find the inspiration and decorations you need to transform your home into a winter wonderland for the Christmas season. Nothing gets you into the holiday spirit like viewing and bidding on more than 100 Christmas trees, wreaths, and holiday baskets imaginatively decorated 24 N o v e m b e r 2 0 2 3 | T H E L A U R E L M AG A Z I N E . C O M

and donated by area businesses and nonprofits. What a delight to see such creativity on display and have a chance to bid on and take home a fully decorated tree of your own. Mark that tree trimming to-do chore off your list if you’re a lucky winner! The festivities don’t stop there as there are also lots more activities throughout including crafts for children, a Build-a-Bear pop-up, gift shopping in the Gift Zone for holiday-themed items and food, a Dolly Parton Imagination Literacy Library stage, and appearances by Disney Princesses. A VIP Breakfast with Santa and Friends will take place on the morning

of Saturday, November 25, featuring a scrumptious menu from the culinary team of The Club at High Hampton. There’ll also be a football themed Gameday Lounge and Festival: After Dark–an enchanting nighttime party where we will enjoy jubilant lights, music, tapas, and libations. For tickets or more information, visit Schedule & Tickets | Cashiers Festival of Trees (summitschool.org). by Luke Osteen

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Christmas on the Green The Village Green in Cashiers will stage a trio of Christmas events to launch the holiday season with style and excitement and bunches of small-town charm.

f you’re feeling a bit drowsy after the Thanksgiving tradition of overindulging or you’re just not convinced that the hectic Christmas season is racing toward us, the Village Green in Cashiers has a quick infusion of holiday cheer. On Friday, November 24, there’ll be a trio of free events for the entire family, starting in the morning and carrying on to twilight. First up, it’s The Village Green Mistletoe Market, an event featuring artisan vendors with a unique assortment of handcrafted gifts. Find hand-crafted pottery, handwoven wearable fiber, beautiful wood pieces, knives, jewelry, fresh baked goods, wreaths and garland, and much more

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on the day after Thanksgiving.

the door.

It’ll be staged at The Village Green Lewis Hall from 10:00 A.M. until 6:30 P.M.

Finally, everyone is invited to the annual Cashiers Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony from 5:30 to 6:30 P.M. at The Village Green Gazebo Lawn (located near the Cashiers Crossroads). The event will feature holiday music, S’mores and cider, and a cozy fire pit. Santa Claus will be there to help light the 65-foot spruce tree in the center of Cashiers, where thousands of twinkling lights will follow to light up the village core.

Santa Claus is coming to town and his first stop is The Village Green! Children of all ages are welcome to visit with Santa at The Village Green Lewis Hall. Santa’s visits will be in conjunction with the Mistletoe Market, so you’re able to shop for locally-made artisan gifts while you’re there. Appointment times will be made available early this month and will be posted on The Village Green website – villagegreencashiersnc.com/ events-programs. Santa will be visiting with children from 2:00 to 5:00 P.M. A $5 per child donation is suggested at

Everyone is invited to the day’s celebrations. It’s all free, though of course donations will be accepted. Join us for this heartwarming event to start off the holiday season. by Luke Osteen

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A Celebration

of Arts

Garrison Keillor

Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival blockbuster 42nd season spilled out of the normal venues for pop-up performances across the Plateau.

t the end of every season of the Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival, we – Artistic Director Dr. William Ransom, and I, Executive Director – ask, “How can we top this next year?” This year, you’ve shown us that it’s possible. Once again, the festival brought together the country’s finest musicians to play chamber music in all its forms. For six weeks, during the season proper, a bonanza of top chamber music talent came together to play favorite works at the Performing Arts Center in Highlands and the Village Green in Cashiers – immeasurably enriching the lives of residents and visitors. Indeed, the 2023 season, our 42nd, was a grand celebration of the arts. It’s thanks to the direction of Dr. Ransom, who long ago established the mold for a forward-looking repertoire that creatively mixes the traditional with the unexpected, that this is so. The strong backing of the Festival Board of Directors and enthusiastic work of the entire staff have been equally meaningful. That HCCMF has been able to set the pace for what is now a bustling summer music scene on the Plateau is due to the pa-

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tronage and support of sponsors, donors, and local businesses. For their generous donations and grants, Dr Ransom and I would like to give special thanks to: Highlands Chamber of Commerce, Cullasaja Women’s Outreach, Mountain Findings, Art and Angela Williams, and the Jane Harrison Trust. You are the pillars of our festival. Your generosity and belief in the power of music have allowed us to create moments of beauty and inspiration. The 2023 festival was a resounding testament to the union of music and community interests. This summer, through the collective efforts of our community we were able to bring distinctive programs to new audiences in spaces beyond the concert hall – “Painting with Music” at the Ann Lea Gallery in Cashiers; “Bach in a Sacred Space” at the Episcopal Church of the Incarnation in Highlands; and “Martinis and Mozart” at Old Edwards Farm, and “Music & Wine from Around the World” at the Highlands Wine Shoppe. Finally, we have been able to maintain a tradition of opening and closing galas thanks to the Chattooga Club and Highlands Falls Country Club. Thank you also to local residents, for partnering with the

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Dr. Ransom,

festival to host unforgettable experiences for patrons at “feasts and salons” – delightful and memorable gatherings of shared music and cuisine. In reflection, the 42nd season has been an eclectic and exciting blend of music, education and entertainment. The residency program at area schools brought music education to the forefront, nurturing the talents of the next generation. Family concerts and ice cream socials engaged our youngest community members, ensuring a legacy of chamber music for decades to come. This month, as we conclude the season, an evening with Garrison Keillor will remind us of the power of storytelling. Be assured that an incredible upcoming 43rd season is already in the works. We thank you all for being an integral part of our music journey as we anticipate the music that awaits us in 2024. by Nancy Gould-Aaron , Executive Director, Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival

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Retreat With a Read

Our local libraries cultivate a sense of quiet and contemplation, like an easy retreat experience.

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n our modern era of noise and chaos, libraries offer some quiet spaces. Free study rooms and spaces are available, and cozy, peaceful reading areas are essential. In fact, anyone entering a library can expect to find a place to chill and/or concentrate. Macon County Librarian Abby Hardison, based at the Macon County Library in Franklin, reported in October that “240 people used our private study rooms 192 times for work in August, and in September, 174 patrons used the rooms 138 times.” Besides for work-related endeavors, these private rooms are also used regularly by students for studying and by homeschooling parents to education their children. Hudson Library in Highlands currently has one study room but will be adding another, while Albert CarltonCashiers Community Library offers a meeting room, conference room, and reading room.

Wonderfully, all three libraries, which are part of the Fontana Regional Library system, provide pleasant, inviting areas in which to read, reflect, and relax.

… cozy, peaceful reading areas are essential.

In the main area of the Macon County Public Library in Franklin is a two-story, floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace with gas logs and an open beam, high ceiling. There are chairs, tables, and comfortable seating as well as soothing, Tiffany-style lamps on tables. Thus, the whole setting conveys a mountain home ambiance. At Hudson Library in Highlands is a stone fireplace with gas logs and a stone hearth. Original arts-and-crafts style art by local artist Rosemary Stiefel, featuring a tree, mountains, and a book spine

hangs over the fireplace, while the room has ample cushioned seating as well as tables and chairs. Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library’s reading room resembles a serene mountain home den with its soft leather upholstery, decorative area rug, stained glass lighting, and exposed beams. And, although users of these reading rooms can bring their own books to read or check out ones from the library, they can also enjoy countless periodicals – the latest editions of national and local magazines and newspapers. Plus, tables in these rooms are replete with relevant local resources, everything from where to obtain specialized services to event information. As the weather chills, a change of scenery from home is a visit to one of the local library reading rooms. by Deena Bouknight / photo by Susan Renfro

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Holidays in Highlands

Highlands is transformed into a winter wonderland from November to December.

s we wrap up a remarkably busy “leaf peeping” season here in Highlands we can now turn our attention to the holidays and gathering with friends and family amid the warm glow of twinkling lights, filled with a festive spirit, to celebrate cherished traditions. In fact, the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC hosts a bustling schedule of events and activities in the Town of Highlands through the end of the year. Be sure to mark your calendars for:

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Ice Skating in the Park – Thursday, Nov. 16, 3:30 to 8:00 P.M. in KelseyHutchinson Founders Park. The Highlands Parks and Recreationmanaged Ice Skating in the Park kicks off and runs until March 3. The hours are Thursdays 3:30 to 8:00 P.M., Fridays 3:30 to 10:00 P.M., Saturdays 1:00 to 10:00 P.M. and Sundays 1:00 to 5:00 P.M. The price is only $5, with or without skates. Coffee and hot chocolate are available for purchase. Light Up the Park – Saturday, November 25, 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. in

Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. Anticipation will fill the mountain air as the community gathers in the park to enjoy treats and a program that includes live music and carols led by the Foxfire Boys, a display of children’s artwork and a reading of the Christmas story. Then, Santa arrives atop a firetruck to usher in the lighting of the park and Main Street. Watch the park come alive with thousands of holiday lights that will remain throughout the season, along with ice skating and photo-op fun. Santa in the Park – Saturdays in

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December in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. Every Saturday through Christmas, Santa Claus himself will make a special appearance in the park to listen to the wishes of children, both young and young at heart. Additionally, he will make periodic visits to collect letters placed in a designated mailbox within the park. Highlands Christmas Parade – Saturday, December 2, 10:00 A.M. to Noon along Main Street. As part of this longstanding tradition, expect to witness a delightful procession along Main Street featuring marching bands, llamas, camels, imaginative floats, and, of course,

the star of the show, Santa Claus. Those who wish to participate in the parade must submit a completed application to the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Highlands, NC no later than Nov. 17. To apply and for more information, email events@highlandschamber.org or call (828) 526-5841. Lighting of the Menorah – Thursday, December 7, 5:30 p.m., KelseyHutchinson Founders Park Hanukkah is an eight-day winter festival of lights, celebrated to mark the triumph of light over darkness. One candle of the giant menorah will be lit on the first night of Hanukkah and an additional

candle each successive night. This will be done until the eighth night when the Menorah is fully illuminated. All events, other than ice skating, are put on by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC and are free of charge. The Holidays in Highlands are a magical time for visitors, residents, their friends and family to gather together and enjoy. by Johanna Fein, Highlands Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Highlands, NC

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Bright Lights Big Christmas

Cashiers Christmas Parade returns to the Crossroads at 3:00 P.M. Saturday, December 2. As in years past, it’ll be a giddy celebration of the sacred and the silly.

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he Christmas season in Cashiers kicks off in high gear this year with their eagerly anticipated Cashiers Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 2, at 3:00 P.M. 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. You’ll want to arrive early to claim a great viewing spot. This year’s theme is “Bright Lights, Big Christmas” in honor of this year’s Grand Marshall’s, New York Times bestselling author Mary Kay Andrews’ latest book. Ms. Andrews will also bring her delightful brand of warm Christmas magic to a book signing in the Lewis Hall at The Village Green on Friday, December 1 at 4:00 P.M. Ms. Andrews’ books are cherished for their Southern warmth, charm and humor and we can’t wait to see what

creative entries spring from this year’s theme. It’s a match made in heaven for our Cashiers community where everyone embraces every opportunity to show their community pride and artistic flair. Expect to see animals, vintage cars, colorful costumes, creative floats, unexpected surprises, marching bands, and more. Emcees bringing local color and comment to the parade this year are Drew English and Sarah Jennings. The entire event will be broadcast live and available post-parade at TheHighSouth. com, one of our great parade partners and member of the Chamber. Once again, this year prizes will be awarded by returning judges Jill Katz of Crossroads Custard, Albert CarltonCashiers Community Librarian Serenity Richards, and Sean Cronin, all-around community dynamo and generous philanthropist.

The Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce is especially grateful for the support and assistance from the local Sheriff’s office and the local fire and rescue departments, who donate their talents, time, and energy to ensure everyone’s safety. They also realize that safety is a community-wide effort and they appreciate that everyone always takes a deep breath and rolls with the punches if they encounter a bit of traffic congestion during the parade. After all, Christmas comes but once a year and this is a moment to savor. For more information call the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce at (828) 743-5191. by Mary Jane McCall

photo by Susan Renfro

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Parading the Holidays

Highlands’ Olde Mountain Christmas Parade set for 10:00 A.M. Saturday, December 2, caps a flurry of holiday fun.

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hile so much about the Christmas season is anticipated, the Olde Mountain Christmas Parade is undoubtedly a “must” on many calendars throughout the Plateau. This season’s parade is Saturday, December 2, and the more than 40-year tradition in Highlands begins at the end of Main Street near the Hudson Library and will proceed for a few blocks, ending near Reeve’s Ace Hardware. Visitors and residents alike are encouraged to line the sidewalks and balconies along the route from 10:00 A.M. to Noon for a magical display of creative floats and live music and entertainment. In fact, a whopping 60 participants are involved in the parade, including representatives of local businesses, non-profit organizations, churches, fire departments, and other local groups. Some generous volunteers will hand out candy and goodies to treat children and

“big kids” attending, and spectators can look for dogs, llamas, camels and other furry friends to be paraded as well. Further, Highlands School’s Homecoming Court, Smoky the Bear, classic cars, local politicians, bagpipes and – of course – Santa and Mrs. Claus are just a few of the parade favorites expected to return this year. The parade will also feature local school bands and, for the second year, Western Carolina University’s award-winning Pride of the Mountains Marching band wraps up the festive gathering. For more information about Highlands Christmas Parade, call the Highlands Welcome Center at (828) 526-2112 or email events@highlandschamber.org. by Deena Bouknight

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Fireside at The Farm

Just in time for the holidays, Mike Kinnebrew makes his return to the Farm at Old Edwards, December 14. Book online at oldedwardshospitality. com/fireside.

Mike Kinnebrew

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et ready to be enchanted on Thursday, December 14, as Fireside at the Farm: A Holiday Evening with Mike Kinnebrew makes its much-anticipated return. Beneath the soaring beams of The Barn at The Farm at Old Edwards, Kinnebrew will sing tenderly the stories he writes of life and love. Set against a backdrop of a fireplace licked with flames, the music takes on epic proportions as the evening captures the true essence of the holiday season. Kinnebrew has always seen his songs as honest and biographical, as a way of telling the story about his life as father, husband and friend. Son of a Baptist preacher and a nurse, Kinnebrew is also a true son of the South. After a childhood moving around various states in the region, his family settled in Atlanta when he was 14. It was during his tumultuous teenage years that Kinnebrew found solace in music.

He recalls, “Even as a kid I was mesmerized by the way a song could reach out and grab you by the heart - or by the throat. I wanted to write songs that would do that.” Undoubtedly, he has achieved that goal. The music that Kinnebrew writes, performs and categorizes as “Indie Folk” draws inspiration from musical luminaries like Tom Petty and Jackson Brown. Over a decade ago, he released his debut album. Between the Living and the Dying. Ten years later, he recorded his second album, One Way to Find Out. Currently he is in the process of creating a new album in Nashville, collaborating with Grammy-winner producers Charlie Lowell and Matt Odmark. 2023 has brought some remarkable achievements for this charismatic and talented performer. In February, alongside the harmonious vocals of his wife Lindsey they sold out Atlanta’s renowned Buckhead Theatre. Then, in August the

couple traveled to Scotland to take the stage at The Fringe Festival. This year’s program, a joyful marking of the season, will include favorite Christmas tunes, tracks from his two albums in release, a sneak peek of his upcoming album and the heartwarming Christmas single, “Can’t let Christmas Go,” which made waves on Atlanta radio last year. Joining him on the stage will be his wife, Lindsey, and recent addition to his band, Ramsey Wynn who dazzles on electric slide guitar. At just 29, Wynn has already shared the stage with Southern rock royalty including Wet Willie, Doc Holliday and Stillwater. The show will run from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Cash bar and complimentary light bites are included. The public is welcome. It’s a $40 cover charge for the public; $25 cover charge for Old Edwards Inn and Half-Mile Farm hotel guests and members. by Marlene Osteen

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A Christmas Tradition

Mountain Theatre Company brings back its lavish holiday revue Highlands Home for the Holidays: A Christmas Tradition, December 8-24 at Highlands Performing Ar ts Center. Reservations are a must – visit mountaintheatre.com.

ere’s what I wrote last year, still basking in the afterglow of attending Mountain Theatre Company’s Christmas Revue, Highlands Home for the Holidays: A Christmas Tradition: “I’m so confident that you’ll emerge from the Playhouse with a measure of giddiness equal to or exceeding that displayed by Mr. Scrooge on that fateful Christmas Morning that I, Luke Osteen, will buy you a cup of coffee and pastry of your choice if your heart hasn’t grown by three sizes.” My bravura paid off – the show was a sell-out, meaning that it was taken in by hundreds of holiday revelers and no one, no one, tried to cadge a cup of coffee from me. That’s testament to Writer/Director Scott Daniel’s confident staging and unerring instinct for unalloyed holiday cheer. 42 N o v e m b e r 2 0 2 3 | T H E L A U R E L M AG A Z I N E . C O M

And it’s why I’m making the same bold promise for the 2023 incarnation of this giddy bit of Holiday Fizz – Highlands Home for the Holidays: A Christmas Tradition, set for December 8-24. Daniel promises that this new version of his hit show will be even more spectacular. That’s good news for anyone who remembers those old Andy Williams Christmas Specials and the panache and technical proficiency of a Vegas Revue. Here’s what I wrote about last year’s show, and allow your imagination to conjure whatever Daniel must have up his sleeve: “Scott Daniel delivers a relentlessly upbeat (you should see what happens when David Tanciar momentarily halts the effervescence with a moody Blue Christmas) confection that’s giddy with elfin goodness.

“Standouts include Alyson Snyder slinking through Santa Baby channeling Marilyn Monroe at her most scintillating; Sam Alan Johnson who somehow out-wickeds the legendary Thurl Ravenscroft with his extra-creepy version of “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch”; Lori Nielsen’s profound “We Are Lights,” a paean to understanding (and an unimpeachable plea for treating one another with kindness in this sad, embittered age); “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” (delivered with offthe-wall exuberance by Holly Wilder); Erin Leigh Knowles’ exuberant “Sleigh Ride”; and Emanuel Carrero’s astonishing “O Holy Night.” Reservations are essential – this show’s going to sell out in a hurry. by Luke Osteen

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Wreaths Across Highlands

Wreaths Across America will be commemorated at Highlands Rec Park and Highlands Memorial Park, December 16. For more information email Phil Potts at ppotts63@frontier. com, or call him at (828) 200-9753.

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ark your calendars now to attend the annual Wreaths Across America wreathlaying ceremony on December 16, at Noon at the Highlands Recreation Park at 600 North 4th Street. Following the ceremony at the Rec Park will be the laying of the wreaths at Highlands Memorial Park. Shuttles from the Recreation Park will be available. This is our seventh local wreath-laying ceremony which 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. The theme this year is Serve and Succeed. 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 to honor and remember our veterans.

organizers will need to know if you wish to lay the wreath yourself, or if you’d like to have them do it. You can sponsor a wreath by visiting their Facebook page, Wreaths Across America-Highlands, Coordinator Phil Potts says “We will be North Carolina, and following the honoring veterans buried in cemeteries link wreathsacrossamerica.org/ pages/167634/overview. The forms will also be available at …honoring veterans buried in cemeteries in Highlands United Methodist Buck Creek, Clear Creek, Goldmine, Highlands, Church, Highlands Recreation Horse Cove, Miller, Scaly Mountain, and Park, and Highlands Decorating Macedonia in Satolah, Georgia… Center.

in Buck Creek, Clear Creek, Goldmine, Highlands, Horse Cove, Miller, Scaly Mountain, and Macedonia in Satolah, Georgia. Friends of Highlands would love to hear from friends and family members of veterans to make sure that their list is complete, and no one is missed.”

For more information email Phil Potts at ppotts63@frontier. com, or call him at (828) 200-9753. Join Friends of Highlands to remember, honor, and teach. by Mary Jane McCall

Sponsoring a wreath costs $17, and

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Mary Kay Andrews

Santa’s Special Guest Author Mary Kay Andrews brings her gentle small-town voice to a gentle small town when she visits Cashiers for Christmas.

anta is coming to town and the jolly elf is bringing a special guest. New York Times bestselling author Mary Kay Andrews will be the grand marshal for the 48th Annual Cashiers Christmas Parade. The theme of the parade is Bright Lights, Big Christmas which is the title of her newest novel. At the most wonderful time of the year, there’s nothing quite as cozy as curling up with a cup of hot chocolate and a festive book to get you in the spirit of the holidays, and Mary Kay Andrews delivers the glitter in this, her fifth Christmas book. The author of more than twenty bestsellers will kick off the weekend at 4:00 P.M. Friday, December 1, in Lewis Hall at The Village Green with a special book event. Come hear her share the details behind this

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heartwarming story and enjoy a book signing along with bites and bubbles. The event is free and open to the public, but reservations are recommended by calling the library at (828) 743-0215. The event benefits the Friends of Albert Carlton Cashiers Library. In Bright Lights, Big Christmas Kerry Tolliver leaves her family’s Christmas tree farm in the mountains of North Carolina for the wilds of New York City to help her gruff older brother and his dog, Queenie, sell the trees at the family stand on a corner in Greenwich Village. Sharing a tiny vintage camper and experiencing Manhattan for the first time, Kerry’s ready to try to carve out a new corner for herself. When asked what the ingredients are for a good Christmas book, Mary Kay responded “It has to have characters

you fall in love with and want to root for and an ending that makes you smile.” She adds that what sets her books apart from other holiday stories is humor, witty banter, and a memorable setting, in this case one that includes a camper resembling a canned ham affectionately called “Spammy.” The 48th Annual Cashiers Christmas Parade will be at 3:00 P.M. on Saturday, December 2. The Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce produces the parade with business, organizations, and residents making spirits merry and bright with floats, antique cars, live animals, and more. For more information on both events, contact the chamber at (828) 743-5191 or office@cashiersareachamber.com. by Ann Self

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Christmas at The Cabin It’s a double helping of classic holiday charm with Christmas at Col. John’s Cabin – Friday - Sunday, November 24-26.

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ith the final two months of the year and the holiday season approaching, Cashiers Historical Society is excited about their upcoming event and the final organized program of 2023 – Christmas at Colonel John’s Cabin – from 11:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Friday, November 24, through Sunday, November 26.

event that will bring you back for years to come. It’s the perfect, peaceful start to the holiday season. Cashiers Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) organization and appreciates the generosity of guests that help CHS continue its mission which includes the idea that the future may learn from the past and to help safeguard our local treasure for future generations. Join CHS for this amazing and affordable event – it’s free but donations are appreciated.

Since 2018, the society has provided the community, visitors and school children what is hoped has become a new and evolving Christmas tradition with the charm of a small town – Christmas at Col. John’s Cabin. Visiting the 1840 cabin you’ll find it decked out with a Christmas tree, garland, ribbons and bows. Experience a quiet time to read one of the many Christmas stories, make a craft or two, eat baked holiday goodies, drink hot chocolate and maybe even some eggnog. While this is the holiday season and the busiest time of the year, CHS invites

everyone to make this a Christmas to remember and continue your tradition of visiting the colonel’s cabin. If you’ve never visited before, make it a point to visit this year and start a new tradition. Put it on your list of holiday events not to miss and CHS thinks it will be an

Cashiers Historical Society is located at 1940 Highway 107S in Cashiers. For information about this event and activities or other events contact our office at (828) 743-7710. You can also visit cashiershistoricalsociety.org and discover more about our mission and our beautiful and historic buildings and grounds. by Sandi Rogers, Cashiers Historical Society

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N OV E M B E R

“November is chill, frosted mornings with a silver sun rising behind the trees, red cardinals at the feeders, and squirrels running scallops along the tops of the gray stone walls.” — Jean Hersey

Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Food Pantry, 3 Bazaar 4 1 Highlands 2 Bazaar Mountain Findings, Mountain Findings, 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands 10 AM-1 PM. 10 AM-1 PM. United Methodist Church.

The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard. Wine Wednesdays, 3:30-5 PM, The Bascom. Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard. Parallel Lives, 2:30 PM, PAC. Music Bingo, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:15 PM, Lewis Hall. Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive. Parallel Lives, 7:30 PM, PAC.

The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird. Live Music, Doug Ramsey, 6 PM, Happ’s Place. Parallel Lives, 7:30 PM, PAC. Live Music, 9 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard. Live Music, A Pickler & A Fiddler Band, 6 PM, Happ’s Place. Parallel Lives, 7:30 PM, PAC. Live Music, 9 PM, High Dive.

Luxury Jewelry Event, Luxury Jewelry Event, Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Food Pantry, Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. 10 AM-5 PM, Bijou. St. Jude’s Catholic Church. 9 Peter Millar Trunk Show, 10 Peter Millar Trunk Show, 11 5 Highlands 7 8 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands 6 10 AM-5 PM, Bijou. Highlands Food Pantry, The Bookworm, Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, TJ Bailey. United Methodist Church. TJ Bailey. 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands United Methodist Church. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard.

11 AM-4 PM. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard. Wine Wednesdays, 3:30-5 PM, The Bascom. Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

The Vineyard. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:15 PM, Lewis Hall. HFW Grand Tasting, 7-10 PM, 2nd & Spring Street, Highlands. Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard. HFW Truckin’, 2:30-5:30 PM, Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird. Farm Harvest Dinner & Barn Dance, 6-9 PM, The Farm Wine Dinner, On the Verandah. HCCMF: Garrison Keillor, Tonight, 7:30 PM, Highlands PAC. Live Music, 6 PM, Happ’s Place. Live Music, 9 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

HFW The Main Event, 12:30 PM, Main Street Highlands. Wine Tasting, 12 PM, The Vineyard. Annual Bourbon Dinner, 4118 Kitchen & Bar Wine Dinner, On the Verandah. Wine Dinner, Wolfgang’s. .Jazz Supper with Chef Sue Zemanick, 6-9 PM, Half-Mile Farm. HFW A Generous Pour, 8-10 PM, Highlands PAC. Live Music, 9 PM, High Dive.

Highlands Food Pantry, Food Pantry, Barn 10 AM-2 PM, Food Pantry, Bazaar Barn 10 AM-2 PM. The Bookworm, 12 Highlands 15 Highlands 17 Bazaar 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands 13 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands 14 11 AM-4 PM. Church of Good Shepherd. 18 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands 16 Mountain Findings, United Methodist Church. United Methodist Church. Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM. United Methodist Church. 10 AM-1 PM. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM,

Peter Millar Trunk Show, TJ Bailey. HFW A Shot at Redemption, 12-3 PM, 2nd & Spring Street, Highlands. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard. Music Bingo, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard.

The Vineyard. Wine Wednesdays, 3:30-5 PM, The Bascom. Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Ice Skating in the Park, Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park. The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, Vineyard. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:15 PM, Lewis Hall. All-School Cabaret Talent Show, Youth Theatre, PAC. Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive. Parallel Lives, 7:30 PM, PAC.

Ice Skating in the Park, Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park. The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard. Live Music, 5:30-10 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. Live Music, 6 PM, Happ’s Place. Parallel Lives, 7:30 PM, PAC. Live Music, 9 PM, High Dive.

Ice Skating in the Park, Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard. MET: X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X, 1 PM, PAC. All-School Cabaret Talent Show, Youth Theatre, PAC. Live Music, Blue Jazz Band, 6 PM, Happ’s Place. Parallel Lives, 7:30 PM, PAC. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird.

Bazaar Barn 10 AM-2 PM. Highlands Food Pantry, Bazaar Barn, 10 AM. Happy Thanksgiving! The Bookworm, Food Pantry, 19 Highlands 22 24 Ice Skating in the Park, 25 Gobble On the Green 23 The Bookworm, 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands 20 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands 21 11 AM-4 PM. 11 AM-4 PM. United Methodist Church. Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park. 5K ,9 AM, Village Green. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, United Methodist Church.

Ice Skating in the Park, Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard. Parallel Lives, 2:30 PM, PAC. Music Bingo, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard.

The Vineyard. Wine Wednesdays, 3:30-5 PM, The Bascom. Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Ice Skating in the Park, Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard. Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

Ice Skating in the Park, Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park. Mistletoe Market, 10 AM-5 PM, The Village Green. Cashiers Festival of Trees, 10 AM5 PM, Summit Charter School. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard. Cashiers Christmas Tree Lighting 5:45-6:30 PM, Village Green Fortunate Sons, 7:30 PM, PAC. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird.

Cashiers Festival of Trees, 10 AM5 PM, Summit Charter School Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird. Light up the Park, 6 PM, Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park. Live Music, Rock Holler Band, 6 PM, Happ’s Place. Live Music, 9:30 PM, High Dive.

Highlands Food Pantry, Food Pantry, Bazaar Barn 10 AM-2 PM. The Bookworm, 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands 27 10 AM-6 PM, Highlands 28 11 AM-4 PM. 26 Highlands 29 Highlands Food Pantry, 30 United Methodist Church. United Methodist Church. 10 AM-6 PM, Methodist Church. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM,

Ice Skating in the Park, Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard. Music Bingo, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

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Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard.

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

Ice Skating in the Park, Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park. The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM. Wine Tasting, 12-6 PM, The Vineyard. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:15 PM, Lewis Hall. Art Benefit, drawing 5 PM, Betsy Paul Real Estate. Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

View the complete Highlands Cashiers Plateau Calendar

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ON T H E HOR I Z ON December Events SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 Highlands Olde Mountain Christmas Parade 10:30 AM-12 PM, Main Street Highlands I’ll bet that many of us wake up singing “I Love a Parade” while we busily gather everyone together to head to downtown Highlands for the much-loved annual Christmas Parade. highlandschamber.org

THURSDAYS-SUNDAYS Ice Skating at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park Downtown Highlands offers ice skating in the picturesque Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park during the winter months. Don’t miss your opportunity to take a turn around the rink. highlandsnc.org

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 Cashiers Christmas Parade 3-5 PM, 107 South 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. cashiers411.com

WEDNESDAYS Bluegrass Wednesdays 6 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub Dance the night away at The Ugly Dog Pub with the bluegrass stylings of Nitrograss. theuglydogpub.com

SATURDAYS IN DECEMBER Santa in the Park Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park Santa will take his place at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park each Saturday during December. Come share your wish list. He’ll also periodically sneak into the park to retrieve letters placed in a special mailbox from the North Pole! Be sure to take a few photos. highlandschamber.org

Winter Events

SATURDAY, JANUARY 6 Met Live on Screen: Nabucco 12:55 PM, Highlands Performing Arts Center Ancient Babylon comes to life in a classic Met staging of biblical proportions. Baritone George Gagnidze makes his Met role debut as the imperious king Nabucco, alongside soprano Liudmyla Monastyrska reprising her thrilling turn as his vengeful daughter Abigaille. highlandsperformingarts.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 Lighting of the Menorah 12:55 PM, Highlands Performing Arts Center One candle of the giant menorah will be lit on the first night of Hanukkah and an additional candle each successive night. This will be done until the eighth night when the Menorah is fully illuminated. highlandschamber.org

SATURDAY -SUNDAY, JANUARY 27-28 Snow Fest @ 4118 Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park Bring friends and family for guaranteed winter fun (courtesy of snow blowers, if needed) at an elevation of 4,118 feet. A snowball toss, a snow tube merry-go-round, a snow slide, an ice-skating rink and more will be waiting. highlandschamber.org

DECEMBER 8-24 Home for the Holidays Mountain Theatre Company at Highlands PAC Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with this annual holiday spectacular! Fun for all ages, this festive seasonal music revue promises dazzling costumes, high energy choreography, and is sure to fill audiences with plenty of good, old-fashioned holiday cheer! mountaintheatre.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14 Fireside at The Farm 6-8 PM, The Farm at Old Edwards Join in for Fireside at The Farm: A Holiday Evening with Mike Kinnebrew. Settle into the magical ambiance of The Farm and relax into a special evening with the sounds of holiday music filling the pavilion. oldedwardshospitality.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 27 Met Live on Screen: Carmen 12:55 PM, Highlands Performing Arts Center Acclaimed director Carrie Cracknell makes her Met debut, reinvigorating the classic story, finding the heart of the drama issues that could not be more relevant today: gendered violence, abusive labor structures, and the desire to break through societal boundaries. highlandsperformingarts.com SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17 Great Outhouse Races 11 AM - 5 PM, Ski Sapphire Valley An annual winter event where participants compete in decorated outhouses on skis. The race typically involves teams of at least three people, with one person skiing, or shall we say ‘pooping’ while sitting on an outhouse and the others pushing the outhouse from behind to get started. skisapphirevalley.com

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Rings of History A gift from the past, the Plateau’s history is written in her trees. To learn more and to help save mountains visit hicashlt.org or contact julie@hltnc.org or (828) 526-1111.

for the winter. This period leaves a dark ring that can be seen in a cut tree section, or “tree cookie,” and it can be used to determine a tree’s age.

The very trees that bear such robust color in autumn are preparing to go dormant

It’s fascinating to think that the trees around us are wrapping up another chapter in their life cycle and that each of the rings it forms represents a time in history – a time in the history of our world, our nation, and our local communities.

ost of the leaves have fallen from the trees and some leaf-lookers have made their way back home. Though the pace is slowing and Mother Nature’s most spectacular show is over for the season, something else is happening that most of us probably never give thought to.

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Imagine a tree that is just under 200 years old, one that began to grow in the 1820s. The most central part of the tree, that part that is now the dense “heartwood” center, would have formed when the first non-native settlers came to Cashiers. Then in 1875, the town of Highlands was founded and only eight years later in 1883 the Highlands Improvement

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Association, predecessor to the organization now known as Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, was created to monitor the new town’s growth. In 1909, 60 acres on Satulah Mountain were conserved and only five years later, during the time of World War I, Ravenel Park, home of Sunset and Sunrise Rocks, was conserved; both of these properties are still owned and cared for by HighlandsCashiers Land Trust, an organization that has now conserved over 4,000 acres of our most treasured places. If our trees could talk, they would tell

tales of pioneers and an ever-evolving community that thankfully has been and will continue to be closely monitored and whose wild places are being conserved by people who want to protect the very vistas, wetlands and forests that brought them here in the first place.

tains visit hicashlt.org or contact julie@ hltnc.org or (828) 526-1111. HCLT is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charity that relies on private donations. by Julie Schott, Highlands Cashiers Land Trust photos by Andrew Renfro

A century from now, the world will surely have continued to change but thanks to those who support HighlandsCashiers Land Trust many of our most treasured places will remain. To learn more and to help save moun-

Scan to learn more.

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Winter Months Outdoor Fun

You’re invited to Winter Chills and Thrills, offered throughout this corner of the Southern Appalachians.

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ust because the temperatures have fallen, and the days are shorter doesn’t mean that you need to retreat indoors during the winter months. We’re not saying that a cozy fire and a cup of hot chocolate or a glass of wine isn’t a great way to spend a winter evening, but you’ll appreciate those relaxing moments more if you’ve enjoyed some time outdoors in the nippy winter air.

(closed Tuesdays) weather permitting, with extended hours during the Thanksgiving weekend. Unleash your inner daredevil and take a ride on North Carolina’s longest gravity-powered mountain coaster, the Scaly Mountain Screamer. Take a break from all this fun and refuel with delicious barbeque at the onsite Blue Hound Barbeque. For more information call (828) 526-3737 or visit highlandsoutpost.com.

Your favorite mountain hiking trails offer an entirely new perspective when the crowds are gone, the leaves are down, and quiet and solitude surround you. There are also many winter adventures that await you on the plateau so whether you’re looking for activities for yourself, your family, or a group, you’ll find something for everyone here.

Downtown Highlands offers ice skating in the picturesque Kelsey-Hutchinson Park beginning in mid-November so don’t miss your opportunity to take a turn around the rink. Open ThursdaySunday, hours are Thursday 1:00 until 8:00 P.M., Friday and Saturday from 1:00 until 10:00 P.M. and Sunday from 1:00 until 6:00 P.M., with extended hours during the Thanksgiving weekend. Rentals are available and reservations are not required. Skaters of all skill

Highlands Outpost at 7420 Dillard Road in Scaly Mountain offers snow tubing and ice skating six days a week

levels are welcome. Coffee and hot chocolate are available for purchase and the Kelsey-Hutchinson Park is a lovely spot to relax, warm your bones with your toasty beverage, and enjoy time with your family and friends. Ski Sapphire Valley plans to open for the season on December 16 and they offer activities for everyone. Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy a fun day on the slopes. Beginners and novices will enjoy their learning center slope with available lessons and guidance, while more experienced boarders and skiers will enjoy the main slope and short lift lines. Snow tubing enthusiasts will enjoy the Frozen Falls Tube Park. Food and beverages are available at the Slopeside Tavern. For more information call (828) 743-7663 or visit sapphirevalleyresorts.com. by Mary Jane McCall

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Spotlight on Scaly Mountain A just-off-the-beaten-path trail in Scaly Mountain offers spectacular vistas and star tling vignettes of unexpected beauty.

isitors to and residents of Highlands, Scaly Mountain, and Sky Valley might regularly drive by this conveniently located but beautiful and moderately challenging hiking spot. They stop at the Osage Overlook, snap photographs, and admire the expansive view that changes dramatically with each season – from North Georgia mountains silhouetted by barren trees to lush and flowering trees and natural shrubs to a vibrant flow of fall colors. However, just beyond a 1978-installed United States Youth Conservation Corps’ sign affixed to an almost half-century rock pillar is a doable 3.7-mile out-and-back trail that winds by impressive boulders, rippling creeks, rhododendron “tunnels,” and plenty of moss-covered landscape. Depending on the time of year this year-round accessible trail is hiked, one might view mushrooms in an array of shapes and colors – due to a tree canopy that shades much of the path. Or spring and early summer means the Scaly Mountain

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Trail is resplendent with pink hues from mountain laurel or rhododendron. In a few spots are small bridges covered with mesh wire to keep hikers from slipping, since much of the trail stays moist. Fallen leaves in every stage – winter brown to green to red, yellow, or orange – maintain droplets of dew even late in the afternoon, thus making them ideal photography fodder. And hikers might pause to absorb the carpets of ancient moss lining some parts of the path. There are more than 600 types of bryophytes (moss plant group) indigenous to North Carolina. Despite becoming dormant during winter months, moss will maintain its rich green color. Elevation gain is about 1,000 feet, so the hike is not too strenuous for the occasional hiker but a decent workout for the avid outdoor enthusiast. Side note: An old U.S. Department of Agriculture-made sign not too far into the Scaly Mountain hike reads Puc Puggy Loop Trail. This trail appears to not be as maintained as the Scaly

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Mountain Trail and may be best hiked in winter when there is less foliage and a diminished chance that one might encounter a slithering creature. However, the name Puc Puggy piqued an interest and, although hiking trails do often sport interesting names – such as Mouse King, Sliced Beets, and Cindy Loo Hoo – this one seemed truly unique. Turns out that 18th century naturalist, horticulturist, and explorer William Bartram (of Travels of William Bartram fame) gained such respect by Native Indian tribes during his meanderings that many referred to him as Puc Puggy, which means “Flower Hunter.” A 110-mile trail from North Georgia past Nantahala Lake in North Carolina is named for Bartram, so it is interesting that this loop would bear his nickname as well. On the Scaly Mountain Trail, dogs are welcome but are supposed to be leashed. Find the trailhead parking area (limited spaces) at the Osage Overlook on Dillard Road about halfway between Highlands and Hwy. 441 (or Georgia Road). by Deena Bouknight

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Photo R E C Rcaption: E A T I OLeucistic N A N DWild C R ETurkey A T I Oby N Ed Boos

Birds of Different Feathers

Ben Franklin’s choice for National Bird presents us with a big surprise.

irds present several anomalies of plumage and color. One is a mutation called leucism. My photograph this month is a Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), in keeping with this month’s traditional American feast, but, in this case, a leucistic Wild Turkey. Notice the hen’s unusual light coloration, the body plumage washed-out, color remaining, however, in the tail feathers and head. This engaging photo was taken by Ed Boos at Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

Leucistic birds lack melanin and pigment in their skin or feathers. The result is a bird that is white or faded in color or with white patches. Our turkeys normally have dark brown wings and body feathers. Leucism can produce pure white plumage. Peacocks, doves, and ducks have been bred for their leucism, producing startling white versions of themselves. Leucism differs from albinism. Albinism, a different mutation, renders the creature completely colorless: white feathers, white 68 N OV EM B ER 2023 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

legs, eyes, feet, and bills. Leucistic birds retain color in their eyes, legs, feet, and bills. Both albinism and leucism appear in birds. Leucism also appears in mammals such as horses and squirrels – perhaps you have seen a photo of a white, leucistic tiger – snakes and alligators, among others. Spotting a leucistic or albino bird in the woods is a startling experience for the unsuspecting birder. Imagine seeing a pure white crow. The bird that graces your Thanksgiving table was probably a white turkey before it became a wrapped item in the grocery store. It’s a domestic version of the Wild Turkey: snowy white plumage but coloration in its eyes and legs and elsewhere. Are these domesticated turkeys, bred and fed for their meaty breasts and drumsticks, bred also for leucism? I don’t know. While I’m asking questions, are our treasured white squirrels

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leucistic? I don’t know the answer to that either. I’ll find out. It’s all too much like high school biology, which made some of us anxious, to put in our beloved Laurel magazine. If you see me in Ingles, ask me and I will regale you with the biological details. Enjoy your turkey feast this month and scan the woods for unusual white or faded birds. Fun final fact: turkeys, large as they are, roost in trees at night. Happy Thanksgiving from the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society. The Highlands Plateau Audubon Society, focused on enjoying and preserving birds and their habitats, is a Chapter of the National Audubon Society and a 501(c)(3) organization. For information on all our activities and membership, please visit highlandsaudubonsociety.org. by William McReynolds , Highlands Plateau Audubon Society

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Migration Celebration

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n early 2023, the Highlands Biological Foundation proudly granted $10,000 to Macon County School’s STEM program, marking a significant milestone in our commitment to stimulating, promoting, and funding biological research and education in the southern Appalachians. This grant has allowed much expansion of vital educational initiatives, including field trips, hikes, special presentations, and essential equipment for science projects in schools across the county.

conservationists. By actively participating in data collection and interacting directly with scientists, students gain insights into how the concepts they learn in the classroom, such as using the metric system and collecting data, are applied in real-life projects. They witness firsthand the significance of citizen involvement in scientific research and the profound impact it can have.

As the Highlands Biological Foundation, we are immensely proud to support Macon STEM, the Migration Celebration, and all the curious, young minds in our county, knowing that our investment in education will yield dividends for the future of science and conservation in our community and beyond. This is not just a grant; it’s an investment in tomorrow, where science

The success of the Migration Celebration this year would not have been possible without the collective efforts of organizations like the Highlands Biological Station, Macon County Schools, Blue Ridge Bird Observatory, Mainspring Conservation Trust, Bigelow’s Botanical Excursions, Nantahala District of the USFS, the Cherokee Tribe, and STEM Macon County. Together, these organizations are sowing the seeds of curiosity and knowledge in the minds of our youth, nurturing a generation of environmental stewards who will play a vital role in safeguarding our natural resources.

and nature education flourish, and young minds are empowered to make a positive impact on our world.

One shining example of the positive impact of this grant was the 14th annual “Migration Celebration” in September. The brainchild of Jennifer Love, Macon County School’s STEM Coordinator, and Jason Love, Associate Director of the Highlands Biological Station, this event received a majority of the grant’s funding, in addition to assistance from the U.S. Forest Service. The Migration Celebration takes place at Mainspring Conservation Trust’s Tessentee Bottomland Preserve, providing an exceptional opportunity for sixth graders from Macon County to delve into the captivating world of animal migration. Through a series of engaging activities and games, students participated in the Kansas State University Monarch Watch program, where they caught and tagged Monarch butterflies along their journeys to Mexico, and engaged in bird banding sessions led by Blue Ridge Bird Observatory’s Mark Hopey, an avian biologist working with the M.A.P.S. (Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship) program to see which neo-tropical migrant species were passing through on their way to South America. Students also learned about native plants and how the Cherokee harvest white oak and river cane from Tessentee to make baskets. The essence of this event goes beyond its educational value; it is about inspiring the next generation of scientists and

The Highlands Biological Station is a multi-campus center of Western Carolina University. For more information on research and education initiatives made possible by the Highlands Biological Foundation, please visit highlandsbiological.org/foundation. by Winter Gary, Highlands Biological Station photos by Jennifer Love

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ighlands’ Mirror Lake, a landmark in danger of silting into a dense wetland, has received a lifeline in the form of funding from the state.

Left to right: Senator Kevin Corbin, Mayor Pat Taylor, Representative Karl Gillespie and Commissioner Marc Hein

New Life for Mirror Lake

A $5 million boost from state government gives Mirror Lake another chance at health.

“With the state appropriating $5 million in the new budget, the restoration of the lake will become a reality in the coming months and years,” said Mayor Pat Taylor during a Coffee with the Mayor presentation last month at Hudson Library. “I want to thank our legislative delegation, Representative Karl Gillespie, and Senator Kevin Corbin, for getting those funds in the recently passed state budget. They are a tremendous legislative team that garners support for Western North Carolina. I want to give a shoutout to Senator Corbin for his tremendous last-minute efforts to ensure the funds were in the budget.” For his part, Rep. Gillespie was quick to praise Mayor Taylor and the

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town administration. “We get a lot of requests from across the district, but it’s rare that we get one that’s as detailed and thorough in making its case,” he said. “And at the end of it, Pat (Taylor) said that ‘if we can’t get the funding, could you at least help us obtain a long-term low interest loan?’ That sort of humble request is just unheard of.” The funding culminates a years-long grassroots campaign to restore Mirror Lake to a healthy aquatic environment. Mirror Lake is a cherished landmark with a rich history, long prized as one of Highlands’s most beloved resources, and a favorite spot for leisure activities, including fishing and boating. Originally named “Wells Lake” after its owner, E.A.Wells, it was eventually renamed Mirror Lake in tribute to its clear, reflective waters. Today, a bracelet of 250 homes encircles the lake, comprising the small population that is the

R ECR E ATION A ND CR E ATION Mirror Lake community. But the more than 100-year-old lake isn’t aging well. What is the most important lake in Highlands, now exemplifies what can go wrong with water use. Lurking below the surface of the waters is silt – accumulated from years of runoff from the town of Highlands and the discharged sediment that originates from development and natural runoff upstream from Mirror Lake. Silt, a fancy word for the gunk that may contain topsoil, fertilizer, animal waste and whatever else runs off the land, occurs just about everywhere. “The sedimentation occurred naturally because no one ever dredged the lake,” said Mayor Taylor. “If a river in this area of steep slopes and high rainfall is impounded to form a lake, sediments will build up over the years.” Mirror Lake is also a “critical watershed” which flows directly into

Lake Sequoyah, the primary water source for the town of Highlands. The accumulated silt has the potential to impact the local water quality and has already disrupted recreational activities on the lake.

Cleaning the sludge from Mirror Lake had been the goal of many in the community for more than 20 years. Finally, five years ago, in the wake of ongoing deterioration, residents got together to create the Mirror Lake Improvement Association. Led by President Pat Gleeson, they have formed a coalition with a goal to dredge Mirror Lake in three phases. The work could take two to four years. Its onset is a milestone for the entire community.

Mayor Pat Taylor, and Pat Gleeson

To date, six acres of lake have been lost to dry land, and the rest of the lake has become so shallow it’s in danger of losing all lake attributes.

Tax deductible donations made be made directly by calling Tom Roberson, M.L.I.A. at (770) 329-9919 or you can email Tom at tom.roberson2@gmail. com, or visit savemirrorlake.org. Mayor Taylor reminded his audience that implementing the plan would take time, and the state funds must be applied in a careful manner. by Luke Osteen

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An Unusual Ibis Sighting

“

Gerry and Avary Doubleday’s Glossy Ibis is as big a surprise as William McReynolds’ Ghost Turkey. Look at that! It has to be an ibis.”

Gerry and I were on Flat Mountain Road one morning last September when we saw an ibis in perfect profile standing in the middle of the Nantahala National Forest. There was no body of water in sight except a muddy roadside ditch. Audubon friends agreed: “It must be a glossy ibis. No other large, long-legged bird has a dark body and that long, downward curved bill.” In bright sunlight, the glossy plumage is iridescent, displaying a range of jewel colors. Spotting this bird in our mountain habitat is unusual. The Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) is most often found along our long eastern and gulf coasts. It

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prefers marshy wetlands where it forages for food, though it also can be found probing the dirt and mud in open fields.

nest of reeds and grass located in a low bush. Ibises nest in colonies, often with other wetland birds.

The ibis locates edibles by both sight and feel, making for a varied diet of insects; marine invertebrates such as snails, shrimp, and crabs; small animals such as snakes, frogs, toads, and salamanders. Maybe our many salamanders brought this large bird to our Plateau. Elsewhere, ibises forage in large groups of 100 or more birds.

Ibises in the United States are believed to have come from Africa in the nineteenth century and to have spread north via the Caribbean. The African Sacred Ibis represented the Egyptian deity Thoth. Ibises were mummified and buried in the belief this would give them a direct link to the afterlife. They were often depicted in Egyptian paintings and sculptures.

Unlike herons or egrets that fly with their necks folded into an S and their legs thrust to the back, ibises fly with their necks straight out and their feet hanging down. They have bare skin above their bills which keeps mud from sticking to their faces. The female lays one to five pale blue or green eggs in a

Keep your eyes open: you never know what you may find around the next curve. by Avary Doubleday photo by William McReynolds

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Creating Art Saved Her

Cover ar tist Nancy Delahaye has met her life’s challenges with a spirit of hope and boundless creativity.

f someone walked up to mixed media artist Nancy Delahaye and told her that therapy could rob her of her creativity, she’d probably paint a mustache on that rascal’s face. For Nancy, the tranquility, joy, and purpose that painting provides is the therapy that saves her peace-of-mind every day. Her life story, woven with delight and trauma, is a powerful narrative. Art was not her focus growing up. She thought a 80 N o v e m b e r 2 0 2 3 | T H E L A U R E L M AG A Z I N E . C O M

career in art to be impractical. Instead, she got a doctorate in Biochemistry. Research was her focus for 15 years. But the more she dove into the molecular gene pool, so to speak, the more Art called her name. And then life took another turn. Nancy says, “I went to my 20th year high school reunion and met up with a high school friend. He was living in Louisiana. I lived in Wisconsin. We

pursued a long distance relationship. I joined him in Louisiana where he was practicing law. We married two decades ago.” Life and its challenges turned again. This time, her husband, after only two years of marriage, discovered a benign tumor affecting the nerves in his spine. Surgery couldn’t completely undo the damage. He uses a wheelchair now.

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Nancy Delahaye

Nancy found herself head of household with two babies and a husband to care for. This time, her career choice was Art. In job transition, Nancy initially painted realism. “I liked it, but it didn’t spark the kind of joy that I felt when I painted abstraction. Switching was a big shift in my art career. Painting largescale abstract pieces gave me a sense of satisfaction and supported me emotionally.” “Creating abstraction became a survival tool,” she adds. “It’s a full range of feeling. It was my love and my salvation.

When I couldn’t paint, I was kind of lost. I knew I needed to do this full time. It is so satisfying when people comment positively on my art.” After she committed to a painting career, her works started selling. Today her mixed-media pieces are represented from San Diego to Miami to Buckhead. In 2024, her influence will extend to France for a four-week residency. Her favorite creations are large scale commissions. She says, “Interacting with customers, making each vision a reality

is so rewarding.” Tell her about your own personal artistic dream for canvas or wood. She’ll make it come true. You can email nadelahaye@gmail.com; phone (225) 776-3161; Facebook: Nancyarbourdelahaye; Instagram: Nancydelahaye art; and visit website nancydelahaye.com. Locally, you can see her work at Highlands Mercantile. by Donna Rhodes

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A List of Gratitudes

There’s plenty to celebrate as The Bascom counts its blessings.

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he Bascom wishes to thank the people and communities of the Plateau for the many ways that you help us realize our mission, to bring quality art experiences to all. A short list of things we are grateful for this Thanksgiving: • Our partnerships, including a new one this year with Vision Cashiers, which has allowed us to extend our Outdoor Sculpture Program to two locations in Cashiers; and a shared partnership with multiple non-profits on the Plateau to bring a strong month of Programming, “Be Kind”, related to mental health and wellbeing. Thanks to our many community partners, we were able to serve over 3,000 participants in our Community Outreach programs; • Our artist-instructors who brought over 60 classes to the Bascom this year, accessible to multiple skill levels and

serving children and adults alike; • Our curators who brought 11 exhibitions to our galleries, providing opportunities to look, reflect, and appreciate a variety of genres;

A short list of things we are grateful for this Thanksgiving…

• Our artists and students, who participate in retail opportunities, classes, and who are responsible for the creative energy of our campus, witnessed by our many visitors;

• Our donors who have faithfully supported our endeavors, made our organization sustainable, and who are helping us bring back to operation the Will Henry Stevens Bridge; • Our Board of Directors, who dedicate their time in service and talent to our mission. Most of all, we thank our public, the many visitors who come through our doors and who support the artists we exhibit, and who bring enthusiasm and energy to our enterprise. Thank you all, and best wishes for a Thanksgiving filled with gratitude and blessings. by Billy Love, The Bascom photo by Anna Norton

• Our Pottery Studio Members who make the studio buzz with activity, and share their talents with us through demonstrations, display, and retail;

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Happenings at PAC

Highlands Performing Ar ts Center is offering a full slate of programs and events to be thankful for. It’s located at 507 Chestnut Street.

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here is so much happening at the Highlands Performing Arts Center in November – starting off with the Highlands Cashiers Players’ production of Parallel Lives, November 2-5, and November 16-19 (the first and third weekends in November) on the Martin Lipscomb Theater stage. The Highlands Cashiers Chamber Music Festival will present Garrison Keillor, Tonight! on Friday, November 10 on the Highlands Performing Arts Center’s Main Stage. For tickets, visit h-cmusicfestival.org. Highlands Food & Wine will present Chuck Leavell at the Generous Pour on Saturday, November 11. For information, visit highlandsfoodandwine.com. PAC Youth Theatre will present the All-School Cabaret Talent Show on Thursday and Friday, November 16 and 17 on the HPAC Main Stage. For more information, visit HighlandsPerformingArts.com.

MET Opera presents live on screen, X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X on Saturday, November 18 at 12:55 P.M. Run time is 3:45 P.M. in the Martin Lipscomb Theater. Anthony Davis’s groundbreaking and influential opera, which premiered in 1986, arrives at the Met at long last. Theater luminary and Tony-nominated director of Slave Play Robert O’Hara oversees a potent new staging that imagines Malcolm as an everyman whose story transcends time and space. An exceptional cast of breakout artists and young Met stars enliven the operatic retelling of the civil rights leader’s life. The Friday after Thanksgiving kicks off the Holiday Season with the Fortunate Sons, Creedence Clearwater Revival Tribute –November 24 at 7:30 P.M. Come re-live songs like “Born on Bayou”, “Run Through the Jungle” and “Susie Q” and go on an expressive near psychedelic journey of guitar musings.

This is an excellent representation of the C.C.R.’s improvisational influences of the day. Other songs like “Bad Moon Rising,” “Down On the Corner” and “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” showcase the band’s commitment to songwriting and the craft it demands. You’re invited to join in on classic sing-a-longs like “Up Around the Bend,” “Lookin’ Out My Backdoor,” “Long As I Can See the Light” and more. Tickets are available at HighlandsPerformingArts.com. by Mary Adair Trumbly, Highlands Performing Arts Center

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Todd Wolfe

Where Every Bird is Royalty The high-rise avian apar tments of Todd Wolfe are earning plenty of satisfied Tweets from their residents (and the people who love them).

f you want a proper birdie perch on your porch, Todd Wolfe can build you an amazing home-tweet-home.

and display cases) that prompt you, the chickadees, and Carolina wrens to chirrup a celebratory, “Wow!”

After 38 years as an AT&T employee (10 years of it as a tech), Todd opened the door to a second life – a retirement on his family’s favorite people-perch, a Highlands mountain. It’s there he added that woodshop he’d been craving for years. Today, at his workbench, he daily plans, plays, and builds unique birdhouses (and occasional cabinets

What steps led Todd to his lifelong quest?

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He says, “While doing a routine phone tech visit, I was impressed with a client’s home-built woodshop. While solving his tech problem, I told him I was toying with the idea of working with wood. He told me to start with birdhouses. They would teach me how to do measurements and practice design. I kept that in the

back of my head.” When he retired, all those cabinets and birdhouses spinning around in his mind for years were set free. He started designing them. The results took flight. The birds for which he built houses and the people who fancied them are flocking to his shows these days. He has a sizeable list of commissions. It’s no wonder. He carefully seeks out repurposed woods including barnwood, only the finest. He (with his wife’s assistance)

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uses quality house paint (three coats) and does a finishing stain that gives each house a striking vintage look. The roofs are made of quality wood pieces or tin from salvage of an Asheville Victorian home. Just like the detailed labor in his previous job, his craftsmanship is meticulous and houses take days to make. The houses are long-lasting in terms of construction, design, weatherproof, and paint jobs that last for decades. Todd’s specialty is high-tower bird houses. They can be as high as 6 feet, with as many as 20 houses threaded

onto a four-inch free-standing post. The houses can face north, south,

He carefully seeks out repurposed woods including barnwood, only the finest.

east, or west. You can request a 4, 5 or 6-foot tower house with your choice of finishes. Or simply purchase a single birdhouse for an eave or a tree-branch. Todd’s process is unique, just like his

houses. He starts at the very bottom and works his way up. He designs as he goes. There is no endgame in mind except to make a one-of-a-kind bird condo. They might have porches, multiple perches, metal adornments like leaves or flowers. There are a variety of designs that pop into his head as he works his way up. You might say, they simply take off. To learn more about Todd’s work and appearances, visit Facebook: Buck Creek Wood Works. His email is badwolf@ bellsouth.net, or give him a call at (828) 526-3078; and (828) 332-2001. by Donna Rhodes / photos by Susan Renfro 87 N ove m b e r 2023 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

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Parallel Lives Highlands Cashiers Players brings the biting and hilarious Parallel Lives to Highlands Performing Ar ts Center in November.

The cast of Parallel Lives Pictured L-R, Seated : Robin Phillips, Jennifer Royce, Julie Harris, Julie Best, Lorine Spencer Standing: Marlene Fairchild, Marsha Moxley, Mary Adiar Trumbly (director), Julie Crook, Leah Grace Craig

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he vast divide between the worldviews of women and men has challenged human beings since the creation of the species. Shakespeare devoted entire plays to explore those differences, and poets John Keats and Emily Dickinson labored in contemplative solitude to bring a measure of clarity and insight. The 21st century has made matters even more confusing, leading to upheavals in society and politics and relationships. The confounding daily choices that all women must make as they navigate this unsettled world are explored with incisive scrutiny and sublime comic timing when Highlands Cashiers Players brings Parallel Lives to Highlands Performing Arts Center, November 2-19. Parallel Lives, written by Mo Gaffney and Kathy Najimy, is a series of sketches that are performed by a handful of women in multiple roles. The various characters range from a pair of order-

planning angels working to ensure that Creation is logical and fair to a couple hanging out in a honky-tonk bar. Full of laughs and energy, the sketches serve as a mirror for women to recognize the absurdities that they must contend with, and an invitation to the men in the audience to pay more attention to the hopes and dreams and fears of 50 percent of the planet. There’s Hank and Karen Sue, a pair of middle-aged bar flies from the Deep South. Madeline and Sylvia are two elderly New Yorkers who are enlightened by a Women’s Studies class. There are also those Supreme Beings planning the fate of the sexes at the beginning of the world. It’s a script that demands talented actresses who are skilled in wry delivery and arch commentary, and Director Mary Adair Trumbly has assembled a superb cast of veterans and at least one-newcomer.

“Though it was first performed in 1987, it’s still just as funny and relevant here in the 21st century,” says Trumbly. “That humor is important because Parallel Lives has some important, thoughtful things to say about women and men. “We also wanted to stage this so that we could tell the Plateau that Highlands Cashiers Players is ready to shake off the remnants of the Covid Shutdown and once again fulfill our mission to bring fun local theater by local performers to the stage.” Parallel Lives will be performed November 2-5 and 16-19 at Highlands Performing Arts Center’s MartinLipscomb Theater. There will be cabaret seating. For tickets or more information, visit highlandsperformingarts.com. by Luke Osteen photo by Susan Renfro

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Nothing Short of Magic

The extremely talented students of Highlands School will be staging a Highlands School Student Cabaret at the Performing Ar ts Center, November 16 and 18. There’s no charge for tickets but please log onto HighlandsPerformingAr ts. com to reserve your seats.

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n the heart of our vibrant community, Highlands School in partnership with PAC Educational Theatre are quickly becoming a beacon for education in the performing arts and will continue to show its commitment to nurturing young talents.

embark on a transformative journey. The performance will be nothing short of magic, as students get to choose their own material to perform. While the directors and teachers work tirelessly to bring specially selected group ensemble numbers to life.

The Elementary and Middle School students of Highlands School will come together for a remarkable Student Cabaret performance on November 16 and 18, on the Main Stage at the Highlands Performing Arts Center.

The performance showcases a diverse array of talent, from soulful singing, dance, and acting. This will be these amazing students’ first chance to perform on the PAC MainStage.

The cabaret is a unique platform that encourages students to explore their creative sides. At Highlands School, the arts are deeply integrated into the curriculum, and the cabaret is a testament to the school’s dedication to fostering the development of wellrounded individuals. Under the expert guidance of Joi Chapman and the staff of PAC Educational Theatre, the students

Rehearsals have already started for the student productions of Disney’s Aristocats Kids and You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown (both productions coming early next year). The elementary students started meeting after school once a week in the middle of September, and the middle school students meet daily as an elective course for nine weeks. The students and teachers were so excited that they wanted to give the kids a chance to get on stage again as

soon as possible. Highlands School Student Cabaret will be a night to remember, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of the performers and the audience alike. It will serve as a shining example of how a dedicated educational institution, in collaboration with organizations like PAC Educational Theatre, can shape the future by providing young students with the tools they need to succeed, not just academically, but in all aspects of life. by Erik Bishop, Highlands Performing Arts Center

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Oksana Shchelgachova

Find Your Sweet Spot Edelweiss Pastry Boutique, 892 Nor th 4th Street in Highlands, is a dazzling doorway to sublime treats for the eye and the palate.

can be pretty careless with my word count when I’m doing these Plateau restaurant reviews. I’ll wax on about the main courses, and the service and the décor, scarcely aware that I’m filling up two pages of copy, which means that desserts are invariably given short shrift, a terse mention in the final paragraph, just before the restaurant’s contact information. But five years ago, I was drunk in love with one restaurant’s astonishing dessert menu: “Perhaps you’re one of those people who just doesn’t like desserts. “Nope. Dessert here is not to be missed. You owe it to yourself, and you owe it to your dining companions. “Each creation is crafted by Pastry Chef Oksana Shchelgachova and each is a 98 N o v e m b e r 2 0 2 3 | T H E L A U R E L M AG A Z I N E . C O M

work of breathtaking beauty. They’re arrayed in a glass case like a set of bijoux in a Tiffany’s window display, as irresistible as the legendary Night of Desirable Objects fishing lure.

through them, and I confess to the slightest pang of regret at ruining Oksana’s little jewel of a confection. Slightest.”

“My dining companion ordered the Summer Breeze Petit Gateaux – Raspberry Compote, Lemon Curd, Dark Chocolate, and Mascarpone Cheese Mousse.

First – let’s be clear – the confounding previous four years of upheaval and turmoil have not shaken my absolute conviction that an exquisite dessert is essential to a healthy life.

“For myself, it was the Pumpkin Patch Petit Gateaux – White Chocolate Creme, Blackcurrant Confit, Caramel, Milk Chocolate Mousse, and Vanilla Cake. (I’m writing this in September to you in October, can there be a sweeter celebration of the season than a pumpkinshaped indulgence?) “We both gazed at our selections for a charged second before sliding our forks

There are a couple of reasons I’ve resurrected this four-year-old review.

This belief plays into Marjorie and Janet’s often repeated imprecation in their Publishers’ Notes – to cherish those moments of delight embroidered within our days. Or, in the words of FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper – “Every day, once a day, give yourself a present. Don’t plan it. Don’t wait for it. Just let it happen. It

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could be a new shirt at the men’s store, a catnap in your office chair, or two cups of good, hot black coffee.”

ing designs are the ingredients, and Oksana’s fealty to quality is immediately apparent to the palate.

experience and we took our selections and drinks and found a cozy table on Edelweiss’ expansive porch.

And, there’s a second, equally important reason – Oksana Shchelgachova, that nearly-legendary pastry chef/ artist, has marshaled her talents and energy and, let’s face it, courage and opened Edelweiss Pastry Boutique at 892 North Fourth Street in Highlands. She’s lovingly restored the summer house and turned it into an exquisite culinary experience.

She starts off with the Callebaut, a Belgian brand that uses sustainable cocoa from West Africa and what’s considered the world’s finest roasting process. The desserts are filled with custard, cremeux, confit, crème brulée or compote.

This is Plateau life at its most sublime and it confirms the wisdom embedded at the heart of Special Agent Cooper’s advice. Or maybe it was Epicurus. Or perhaps it’s my publishers, Marjorie and Janet!

There’s now a full room of cases, outfitted with arrays of tarts and gateaux and cheesecake and croissants. Each is crafted with an eye to detail and infused with Oksana’s sense of whimsy and playfulness. You can almost be certain that these creations would have found their way to The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party.

Edelweiss offers its pastries, hot and cold beverages, and various packaged coffee and gourmet treats, which means you can surprise your friends or co-workers with an impromptu party or coffee klatch. (This is part of my strategy of being named Laurel’s Employee of the Month some time in 2024).

But just as important to those breathtak-

Tricia and I opted for a different

But what gives Edelweiss’s singular treats their eye-catching allure is the application of glaçage miroir, which creates that shiny glaze.

The point is, find your Sweet Spot, your Moment of Bliss, at Edelweiss Pastry Boutique. Oksana is sure to have something to surprise you and brighten your day. (Also, she takes special orders for weddings and holidays – how magical is it to have a concierge pastry artist?) by Luke Osteen

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Thanksgiving Wines

Marlene’s exper tise offers some clarity on a Thanksgiving dilemma.

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s to Thanksgiving one thing is certain – there will be no shortage of things to eat. Burdened with a multitude of dishes, our tables will groan, as our mouths water and our noses twitch in anticipation.

range of dishes and flavors. The best will not only reinvigorate tired taste buds but will reawaken appetite and enhance the food. In short, wines with such seductive bursts of vitality that you can’t wait for the sip that follows the next bite.

We all love spending this November day at the table – taking pleasure in the non-stop onslaught of food, paying tribute to the Portuguese saying that “At the table, you don’t get old.”

Assuming a large and perhaps raucous Thanksgiving dinner, whether served at the table or buffet style, my advice is to have one white and one red wine, make them available from the start of the day and have plenty of both. Here are some wines that are sure to shine – light on their feet and on your pocket, and moderate in alcohol.

Of course, the best way to enjoy the feast is to make sure every forkful is accompanied by a delicious glass of wine. Yet for an occasion at which the menu is likely pre-ordained, the quandary returns every year as to the wine selection. How best to keep the palate whetted and the caloric excess palatable? In short, three words – light bodied wines. You need versatile wines that can delight across the table – wines that avoid heavy use of oak and tannin; that can complement and not overshadow or obscure a

White Wine Options: The 2020 Cuvee Luke from Davis Family Vineyards, a blend of 3 traditional Rhone varietals, is laced with pear and allspice flavors and sparkles with a racy acid line that lends freshness to the finish – an able dance partner to the day’s flavors. Known to tickle the tongue and spark the appetite are the bone-dry Rieslings of

Alsace. The 2020 F.E. Trimbach Riesling is a classic wine with remarkable acidity and clear and tart concentrated white fruit. A wine to “show off” at your party! Red Wine Options: French gamay, specifically Beaujolais, those grown in the granite hills south of Burgundy. The best of these, the Beaujolais crus, combine the thirstquenching joy inherent in the grape with a light-hearted complexity. The Alex Foillard 2019 Côte de Brouilly wafts from the glass with aromas of raspberries, plums, peonies, and orange rind. Another great choice is one of the fine-boned delicate Pinot Noirs made in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. These are food-friendly wines that show classic flavors like cranberry and allspice. One to try is the 2020 Cooper Hill pinot noir from Cooper Mountain Vineyards, a snappy wine with cherry accents. by Marlene Osteen

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Miguel Alvarez, Jesse Coffeen, and Lily Chavez

It Feels Like Family Overseeing a bustling kitchen, Jesse Coffeen keeps the pub food favorites coming at the Ugly Dog Public House, 294 South 4th Street in Highlands.

n Highlands, the Ugly Dog Public House has long been the place where everyone wants to be. The brainchild of Kay and Thomas Craig, Ugly Dog opened in 2010.

comradery and good times carry over to the food in a menu that hits all the high notes of Southern and tavern fare – wings and pretzels, tacos and tater tots, barbecue, burgers, dogs and pizzas.

Since then, there’s scarcely been a visitor or resident who cannot recall time spent at the pub. In its 13-year history, Ugly Dog has taken many forms. It can be a world of regulars sharing a beer at the bar, a center for bridal parties and homecomings. It can be a performance hall for the best in bluegrass, and a game venue where music bingo is played. The

All of which is why when considering naming a new chef, it was an appointment carefully considered by Kay Craig, Ugly Dog’s impresario. Recently Craig tapped Jesse Coffeen to lead the kitchen, following an introduction by managers at their sister restaurant – High Dive.

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Coffeen is neither new to Highlands nor to the restaurant business. Son of a

navy man, he bounced around during his youth but spent summers in Highlands and ultimately his senior year here, graduating in 1997. And, it was here that he first learned the restaurant business; at his Aunt Diane Sackman’s Highlands Seafood and Smokehouse. As Coffeen described his time there, “I started there as a dishwasher, younger than I was legally allowed to work. At 14, I first got on the line and learned how to cook – working the fry station, quartering chickens and by 15 or 16, they moved me down to the smoker.”

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He went to college in Orlando, and from there worked at a variety of restaurants, “mostly for corporate restaurants, but I found out I didn’t like that. So, I focused on working for independent restaurants and fell into fine dining.” By the time he decided to move back to the mountains he had worked his way through Florida, and Arizona. In 2017 he landed the sous chef job at Fortify in Clayton where he stayed until the start of the Pandemic in 2020. Now at Ugly Dog, Coffeen says that, “My focus day in and day out is primarily to uphold Kay’s vision for the restaurant. She’s built an impressive business and there’s a lot to be

said for that.” His role, as he sees it is predominantly managing and leading a 15-person culinary team, “keeping the wheels moving – ensuring that orders are placed and received and the restaurant staffed and trained.” He enjoys being hands-on in the kitchen and filling in wherever needed – whether it’s working the dish station or the fryer. He told me that, “My favorite thing about Ugly Dog is the people I work with. There’s a strong team in place here, passionate people who care about what they are doing, along with multiple different families. All of which makes it feel like a family.”

Though he has kept the menu true to the original casual tavern concept, Coffeen enjoys creating Southern comfort food specials for Wednesday Bluegrass night – country fried steak, shrimp and grits and meatloaf. Jesse Coffeen lives in Highlands with his wife, Jessica Emery, who is member services director at Highlands Falls Country Club and their two young children, 4-year old Eliza Coffeen, and 2-year old Beatrix Coffeen. by Marlene Osteen photos by Susan Renfro

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Holiday Traditions

Marsha Moxley

Marsha Moxley’s pair of cherished recipes turns the humble cranberry into a holiday showstopper.

hether you’re shaking up a batch of Cosmopolitans, or cranking open a can of jellied concoction, chances are at some point during your holiday celebration cranberries will be on the menu. For Marsha Moxley, cranberries are both homage to tradition and a chance to create something surprising. A retired nurse who made her permanent home here eight years ago, Moxley’s connection to Highlands dates back to 1980 when her mother and father bought their first house on Mirror Lake. Moxley and her family have been visiting ever since. Today she’s often seen in town volunteering at the Visitor Center, the Community Care Clinic or at the Hudson Library, where she’s the board president. Moxley is justifiably sentimental about the recipe she shares with us for cranberry sauce. She recalls that her mother first made it for her sister’s third grade class. “She used to bring it into the class along with dixie

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cups and a crock pot full of paraffin wax so that the kids could safely take it home. She would scoop the sauce from a ladle into the cups and top it with the warm wax. At the time, people often canned with paraffin as an alternative to ball jars,” she explained. Later she duplicated the exercise for Marsha’s 3rd class. So pleased were the teachers with the recipe and the instruction that they repeated it annually during the holidays for the next 10 to 15 years. Eventually Moxley’s mom became known as the “cranberry lady.” Six years ago, while visiting a friend in Asheville, Moxley was intrigued to discover a bag of fresh cranberries in the freezer. Her friend explained that she hoarded them for times when they were out of season for her cranberry salsa recipe. As Moxley told me, “I know it sounds weird, but this recipe is so good. I make it in big batches, put it in jars and give it to friends as gifts or serve it with tortilla chips. It’s always a showstopper.”

DI NI NG Mom’s Cranberry Sauce With only 4 ingredients, this sauce is the essence of cranberry. Intensely flavored and brightly granite-colored, it’s a Thanksgiving icon Ingredients 1 12-oz bag fresh cranberries 2 cups water 2 cups sugar 2 teaspoons orange zest 1-2 navel oranges, diced Directions Place all ingredients in a medium pot and bring to boil, then reduce heat to medium and cook for about 20 minutes. The cranberries will pop and break down, helping to thicken the sauce. Transfer the sauce to a container and chill. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools. Cranberry Salsa There are times when we need more zing from our cranberries, and you get that by using jalapenos. Its fresh, clean heat and the lime’s tang give the raw cranberries a new friskiness. Ingredients 4 bags fresh cranberries 1-2 jalapeno peppers, seeds removed 1 small Vidalia Onion 2 cups Sugar 2 oranges, zested first and then diced 1 tablespoon lime zest 1 bunch cilantro, roughly chopped (Moxley advises hand-chopping so it retains its texture) Directions Combine all ingredients in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Transfer to a bowl, cover and refrigerate, stirring occasionally, for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to develop. by Marlene Osteen photo by Susan Renfro

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Food and Fellowship

Back after a pandemic pause, Christmas Dinner at Highlands Country Club is once more a golden event on the community’s social calendar. Reservations begin November 15 and will fill quickly; call (904) 270-9655 to reserve a space at the Christmas Dinner table.

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hristmas Dinner at Highlands Country Club has historically been a popular event in that it meets a variety of needs, including fellowship, foodways, and fundraising. After a three-year absence due to Covid, the H.A.N.D.S.-sponsored dinner returns to the Hudson House at the Highlands Country Club. What began in 2001 as a potluck dinner at the old Main Street Inn morphed into a sought-after event. The idea was inspired by the former Inn owner Jan Zehr as an opportunity to give Highlanders and visitors a place to share a traditional Christmas Dinner when no other eating establishments were open on Christmas Day in Highlands. That first meal evolved into a huge annual community event. The first event served around 50 people and raised approximately $2,000. All the money initially raised was donated back into community to support vari-

ous services and organizations. Over the years, the event has yielded over $250,000 to fund local nonprofits. “This year the proceeds will be used to help fund early childhood development and childcare for children of the Highlands area,” explained Rotarian Ricky Siegel. As it’s been in the past, the meal will be organized by Marty Rosenfield, known locally as the former owner and chef of Lakeside Restaurant. The meal will consist of main courses of turkey, ham, and beef tenderloin, traditional Christmas fare, as well as all the trimmings, and salads and desserts. “Everything is coming from fine local restaurants, and of course, our dinner would not be complete without a fabulous dressing and gravy!” expressed Siegel, who added, “Because we are practically starting over after such a long absence due to the pandemic, we are having to limit reservations to 250

people. While it is way below numbers we were able to accommodate in the past, around 400 people in 2019, it will be a good starting point with hopes that in future years, we can get back to those old numbers.” This year, H.A.N.D.S. (Highlands Area Nonprofit Donation Sharing), a 501(c) (3) nonprofit, is partnering with The Rotary Club of Highlands and The Mountaintop Rotary. Rotarians will provide expertise and supply much needed volunteers and financial support, explained Siegel. “We truly welcome their participation in this year’s event and in the years to follow.” The Christmas Dinner will be served from 11:30 A.M. until 3:30 P.M. and is by reservation only. The cost is $60 for adults, with children under 12, $25, and children 5 and under, free. by Deena Bouknight

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f 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 Bella’s Junction Café, (828) 526-0803 – Offering a Thanksgiving Take Home Special, turkey and all the classic sides. Dusty Rhodes Superette, (828) 526-2762 – Sides and desserts will be available in their prepared cases prior to the Big Day.

Who’s Serving?

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

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Highlands Smokehouse, (828) 526-3554 – Place orders for a Thanksgiving Meal Kit by Sunday, November 19. Pick up your order Wednesday, November 22 between 2:00 and 5:00 P.M.. Simply reheat and enjoy Turkey Day! Mountain Fresh Grocery, (828) 5262400 – Order online only at mfgro.com

DI NI NG to reserve your complete Thanksgiving dinner. Pick up at prearranged time on Thanksgiving Day. Rosewood Market, (828) 526-0383 – Call ahead to reserve your turkey, main dishes, sides and desserts. Turkey orders must be placed by Friday, November 3. All others by Friday, November 17. Pick up on Tuesday or Wednesday, November 21-22. The Kitchen Carryaway, (828) 536-2110 – Call ahead to reserve your soups, sides, and desserts. All orders must be placed by 5:00 P.M. Wednesday, November 15. Pick up on Wednesday, November 22, by 2:00 P.M. Take Out Cashiers Cashiers Farmers Market, (828) 743-4334 –Turkey, sides and desserts. Barbecue is also available. Place your order by phone or in person. Pick up on Wednesday, November 22.

Cashiers Valley Smokehouse, (828) 547-2096 – Order by Saturday, November 18, to reserve your ham and pies and plan to pick up on Wednesday, November 22. Happs Place, (828) 743-5700 – Order ahead for your take and bake Thanksiving dinner. Pick up on Wednesday, November 22. Dining on the Plateau Edelweiss Pastry Boutique, Highlands, (828) 200-2700 – Offering for a variety of holiday pastries and desserts. Fire+Water at Fire Mountain, Scaly Mountain, (800) 775-4446 – Serving a midafternoon classic Thanksgiving feast with contemporary flair. Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar, Highlands, (828) 787-2990 – Opening at 4:00 P.M. with regular menu.

526-9313 – Open 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. with regular menu. Las Margaritas, Cashiers, (828) 745-6900. Madison’s Restaurant, Highlands, (828) 787-2525 – Enjoy an unforgettagle Thanksgiving meal. Noon - 6:00 P.M. Reservations only. Oak Steakhouse, Highlands, (828) 526-4008 – Serving a Thanksgiving buffet from Noon until 6:00 P.M. On the Verandah, Highlands, (828) 5262338 – Serving Thanksgiving Dinner from 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bar Bistro, Highlands, (828) 526-3807 – Offering a traditional Thanksgiving feast; act quickly, this fills up in a hurry. by Luke Osteen

Highlands Burritos, Highlands, (828)

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A Celebration of Wine and Food

Chef Wolfgang Green, Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Winie Bistro

The wine dinners and specialty events embedded within Highlands Food & Wine promise sensations that will beguile the senses and create lifelong memories.

uring the second weekend of this month, we’ll welcome visitors to the seventh annual Highlands Food & Wine Festival. Epicurean adventurers all, they will explore the booths, tables, and food trucks of chefs and artisans – sampling delicacies from acclaimed regional culinarians. They will relish charcuterie, and cheese; seek out high-falutin’ dishes, and farm-to-table concoctions, and scavenge for stacked sandwiches and smoky barbecue and juicy burgers and so much more. But, as these same folks wander up and down Main Street and various venues, I wonder if they are as struck, as I always am, by the number, quality and diversity of our local restaurants. Amazingly, this profoundly rural area, which has only recently achieved adequate cell service, boasts a decades old restaurant culture

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that pre-dates many of our big-city counterparts. In fact, the dining options here are as diverse as the colors of the recent autumn foliage, as varied as our surroundings, offering cuisine as elevated as our locale. A complete listing is available in the pages of this magazine. They will all be open and eagerly welcoming diners throughout the festival. Notable during festival weekend are four unique culinary experiences, hosted by local chefs – each an intriguing opportunity to examine the ever-fascinating world of food and drink and growers, chefs, and artisans. On The Verandah chef and owner Andrew Figel will host two California wineries. Dinner on November 10 will feature the wines of Rutherford’s Round Pond Estate, and on November

11 the restaurant will welcome Gundlach-Bundschu head winemaker Hernan Valverde. Now the third-oldest bonded winery in California, GundlachBundschu is California’s oldest continuously family-owned winery. Both events begin at 6:00 PM with a reception to include wine and hors d’oeuvres, followed by a seated multi-course dinner with wine pairings. $200 per person plus tax and gratuity. Call for reservations, (828) 526-2338. This year again, as they have for the past ten years, Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro – one of Highlands’ oldest and most acclaimed restaurants, will welcome a representative from famed Napa Valley winery, Caymus Vineyards. On Saturday, November 11, Chef Wolfgang will create five remarkable courses to complement the winery’s extraordinary output. The evening

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Chef Andrew Figel, On the Verandah

begins with a champagne reception at 6:30 P.M. $210 per person plus tax and gratuity. Call for reservations, (828) 526-3807. Wine lovers will definitely want to add two extraordinary events at Highlands Wine Shoppe, On Friday, November 10, from Noon to 4:00 P.M., local chef Ken Naron will prepare a classic French lunch paired with sommelier-selected wines from beloved wine regions, including Napa Valley, Champagne, Burgundy, Portugal and Austria. Cost is $150 per person. The wines of Northern Rhone are celebrated on Saturday, November 11, from 2:00 to 4:00 P.M. when Eric Hemer, one of only four people in the world to have achieved both Master of Wine and Master Sommelier certifications, guides tasters through a tour of the esteemed wine of the region. Cost is $150 per person. For more information, call (828) 526-4080. Chef Adam Bresnahan and his 4118

Chef Adam Bresnahan, 4118 Kitchen & Bar

Kitchen & Bar team of culinary wizards will host their annual bourbon dinner on Saturday, November 11. Only 26 seats are available at this five-course dinner created to complement the rich, sultry nuanced flavors of deluxe bourbons from North Carolina’s Weldon Mills, Colorado’s Breckenridge, Kentucky’s Wilderness Trail and Blade and Bow distillers. Cost is $190 plus tax and gratuity. Visit 4118kitchen-bar.com/store/ events.

plus tax and gratuity. oldedwardshospitality.com/farmharvest.

Created especially for festival weekend are two events from the talented team at Old Edwards:

oldedwardshospitality.com/suezemanick

A chance to meet farmers and feast on their fare is the highlight of the annual “Farm Harvest Dinner & Barn Dance” at The Farm at Old Edwards on Friday, November 10. Chefs of Madison’s Restaurant will prepare farm-fresh ingredients from Sunburst Trout Farms, Anson Mills and Painted Hills Beef, accompanied by music from the Back Porch Orchestra. Cost is $210 per person

For more information visit highlandsfoodandwine.com.

Globally-influenced Creole cuisine from Sue Zemanick, of Zasu in New Orleans, accompanied by live jazz during cocktail hour featuring Paul Jones are the dynamic components of the Jazz Supper at Half Mile Farm on Saturday, November 11. Cost is $185 per person plus tax and gratuity. Please note that as of this writing, both events were sold out.

by Marlene Osteen

Scan to learn more.

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B Breakfast

Lunch

D Dinner

CASHIERS, NC Buck’s Coffee Cafe - (828) 743-9997 Chile Loco - (828) 743-1160 Cornucopia Restaurant - (828) 743-3750 El Manzanillo - (828) 743-5522 JJ’s Canteen and Eatery - (828) 743-7778 On the Side BBQ - (828) 743-4334 Slab Town Pizza - (828) 743-0020 Subway - (828) 743-1300 Town and Country General Store (828) 547-1300 Ugly Dog - (828) 743-3000 Wendy’s - (828) 743-7777 Whiteside Brewing Company - (828) 743-6000 FRANKLIN, NC Papa’s Pizza - (828) 369-9999 (ad on Page 136) HIGHLANDS, NC Asia House - (828) 787-1680 Black Bear Cafe - (828) 482-7020

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SB Sunday Brunch

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Take Out

Outdoor Dining

Live Entertainment

Dress Code

Full Bar

Reservations Recommended

Wine

(828) 526-0383 (828) 526-8364 (828) 526-3807

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Restaurants of the Highlands Cashiers Plateau

HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS 4118 Kitchen + Bar 64 Highlands Plaza Bella’s Junction Cafe 20 Old Mud Creek Road, Scaly The Bistro at Wolfgang’s 460 Main Street Calder’s Cafe 384 Main Street The Dancing Bear at The High Dive 476 Carolina Way Don Leon’s 462 Dillard Roads Fire + Water Restaurant Reservations Required Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar 465 Main Street Highlands Burrito 226 South 4th Street Highlands Pizza Place 365 Main Street Highlands Smokehouse 595 Franklin Road Hummingbird Lounge 455 Main Street Highlands, NC The Kitchen CarryAway & Catering 350 S. Fifth Street Lakeside Restaurant Smallwood Avenue Los Vaqueros 30 Dillard Road Oak Steakhouse at Skyline Lodge 470 Skyline Lodge Road On the Verandah Highway 64 (Franklin Road) Paoletti’s 440 Main Street Primary Restaurant + Bar 310 Main Street *Rosewood Market Main Street The Ugly Dog Pub 298 South 4th Street Wolfgang’s Restaurant 460 Main Street CASHIERS AREA RESTAURANTS Cashiers Valley Smokehouse US 64 West Happ’s Place 5914 Highway 107, Glenville Las Margaritas 127 US 64 The Orchard Highway 107 South Zookeeper 45 Slabtown Road SAPPHIRE/TOXAWAY AREA RESTAURANTS Greystone Inn 220 Greystone Lane, Lake Toxaway Hidden Valley Tavern 3638 US Route 64, Sapphire

Vegetarian Selections

Meals

Plateau Dining Guide

Children’s Menu

thelaurelmagazine.com/cuisine

(828) 526-5002 (828) 526-0803 (828) 526-3807 (828) 200-9308 (828) 482-1513 (828) 526-4446 (828) 787-2990 (828) 305-7700 (828) 526-3554 (828) 787-2525 (828) 526-2110 (828) 526-9419 (828) 482-7040 (828) 482-4720 (828) 526-2338 (828) 526-4906

Takeout Only

The Blue Bike Cafe - (828) 526-9922 Bryson’s Deli - (828) 526-3775 Divine South Baking Company - (828) 421-2042 Dusty’s - (828) 526-2762 El Azteca - (828) 526-2244 Fressers Courtyard Cafe - (828) 526-4188 Highlands Deli SweeTreats - (828) 526-9632 Highlands Tavern - (828) 526-9002 Madison’s Restaurant - (828) 787-2525 Midpoint (828) 526-2277 Mountain Fresh - (828) 526-2400 The Ruffed Grouse - (828) 526-2590 The Secret Garden - (828) 305-7509 Spinx Highlands - (828) 526-4191 Subway - (828) 526-1706 Wild Thyme Gourmet - (828) 526-4035

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Dress Code: C Casual

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LAKE TOXAWAY, NC Grand Olde Station - (828) 966-4242 Los Vaqueros - (828) 966-7662 Sweetwater Perk & Creamery, LLC - (828) 577-0469 Villa Amato (828) 885-7700 SAPPHIRE, NC Canyon Kitchen - (828) 743-7967 The Library Kitchen and Bar - (828) 743-5512 The Fix Bar & Lounge - (828) 743-7477 Jim’s Place at Sapphire Country Store - (828) 966-4011 Mica’s Restaurant - (828) 743-5740 Panthertown Cafe - (828) 862-3663 Sapphire Mountain Brewing Company - (828) 743-0220 Slopeside Tavern - (828) 743-8655

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Pet Policy

Ad On Page

Banquet Facilities Wireless Internet

Cable/Satellite TV

In Room Microwave/Fridge

Whirlpool Rooms

Accommodations on the Highlands Cashiers Plateau

Exercise Facility

On Site Restaurant

Plateau Lodging Guide

On Site Bar/Lounge Pool

thelaurelmagazine.com/lodging

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HOTELS / MOTELS / BED & BREAKFASTS Fire Mountain

700 Happy Hill Rd | Scaly Mountain

firemt.com | (800) 775-4446 n n

Greystone Inn

220 Greystone Ln | Lake Toxaway

thegreystoneinn.com | (828) 966-4700 n n

445 Main St | Highlands

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

470 Skyline Lodge Rd | Highlands

Skyline Lodge

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VACATION RENTALS 400 Meraki Lane | Brevard

merakiescape.com | (828) 463-7440

37 High Holly Road | Scaly Mountain

thevineyardathighholly.com | (828) 482-5573

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488 Main Street | Highlands meadowsmountainrealty.com | (828) 526-1717

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Meraki Escape The Vineyard at High Holly

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VACATION RENTAL AGENCIES Berkshire Realty Vacation Rentals

401 N 5th St | Highlands

highlandsiscalling.com | (828) 526-3717

Landmark Vacation Rentals

17 US Hwy 64 E | Cashiers

landmarkvacations.com | (877) 926-1780

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Rent in Highlands - CCP

507 Main Street | Highlands

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

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341 Hwy 64 W, Ste 102 | Cashiers

ncliving.com | (828) 743-1999

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 Fairview House - (866) 526-8008 Half Mile Farm - (855) 271-7246 Highlander Mountain House - (828) 526-2590 Highlands House Bed and Breakfast - (828) 787-1186 Highlands Inn - (828) 526-9380 Highlands Inn Lodge - (828) 526-5899 Highlands Resort Rentals - (828) 526-5839 The Inn at Mill Creek - 828-526-9999 The Lodge at Old Edwards - (828) 787-2560 Lotts of Sky - (404) 395-4000 Lullwater House - (423) 488-2799 Old Edwards Inn and Spa - (866) 526-8008 Park on Main - (800) 221-5078 Ray’s Roost - (678) 534-6870 Rent in Highlands - CCP - (800) 684-2171 x 302 Rockwood Lodge - (828) 526-8919 Silver Creek Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-2999 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 & Suites Cashiers-Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-4545 Mt Toxaway Lodge & Motel - (828) 966-4582 Sapphire Run at Whisper Lake - (863) 412-5734 Whispering Falls - (352) 470-4085 Woods at Buc - (770) 714-9211

Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals

Silver Creek Vacation Rentals

BREVARD, NC: Meraki Escape - (828) 463-7440 CASHIERS, NC: High Hampton Resort - (800) 648-4252 Hotel Cashiers - (828) 743-7706 The Lakehouse - (904) 753-0247 Landmark Vacation Rentals- (877) 926-1780 Mountain Vacation Rentals - (828) 743-0258 The Orchard Guest Cottage - (828) 743-7614 Pebble Creek Village - (828) 743-0623 Silver Creek Vacation Rentals - (828) 743-1999 The Wells Hotel A Cashiers Experience - (828) 761-6289 FRANKLIN, NC: Southern Belles Glamping - (828) 371-9890 GLENVILLE, NC: Innisfree Bed & Breakfast - (828) 743-2946 Mountain Lake Rentals - (828) 743-6875 Prime Property Rentals - (828) 743-3482 120 120

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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

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SHOPPING Pages 126-129

photo by Charles Johnson

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COZY WARMTH Wrap yourself in luxury with this adorable cropped jacket by LoveShackFancy. This chic suede layer features a removable soft faux fur collar for extra warmth and a sleek touch. Suede Chalice Jacket | $ 995 Wit’s End | Highlands

Plateau Picks

A f ew of our f avorit e t hing s

FUNCTION AND FASHION

PICKET FENCES

Stay warm and on-trend with the Sage The Label All The Way Coat! This navy and brown plaid coat adds functional, fashionable flair to any ensemble and keeps you cozy in any temperature.

This stunning original artwork – with subtle shades that echo from nature – will be an enhancing compliment to any home.

Plaid Winter Coat | $149 Annawear | Highlands

Picket Fences, 60”x48”, acrylic | $3600 Laura Moser Art | Cashiers

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FOR A THANKSGIVING FEAST

From roasting a bird to searing steaks on the stovetop or grilling a dinner’s worth of vegetables, this generously-sized polished interior surface, the No. 14 is the perfect tool for the chef who cooks with pride for family and friends. Dual Handle Smithey No. 14 Skillet | $240 Cashiers Kitchen Company | Cashiers

ALL IS MERRY

A festive gift for wine aficionados, this Jolly old Saint Nick boasts a hand-painted face and detailed accessories. Cheers! Burgandy Wine Santa by Karen Didion | $144 99 The Christmas Tree | Highlands

PITCHER WITH PARSNIP

“The style in which I paint these botanical images comes from my background as a print maker. I tend the fire, so the flame does not go out. How do I know if the work is good, is not an intellectual response, but rather a sensation, something you feel within you.” - Tim Ludwig

With a sophisticated sable collar and front trim, this mink trench-length coat is a timeless investment – a showstopper in every respect.

Pitcher with Parsnip by Tim Ludwig | $1600 The Bascom | Highlands

Mink Coat with Sable Trim | $1995 Victoria’s Closet | Cashiers

MINK AND SABLE

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SHOPPI NG

After-Thanksgivng Sale

One more thing to be thankful for – Rusticks’ After Thanksgiving Sale, Friday and Saturday, November 24 and 25.

ne of the most awaited events each year in the Cashiers area is Rusticks’ after-Thanksgiving Day sale. Annually, all day on the Friday and Saturday following Thanksgiving, Rusticks welcomes shoppers to its two showrooms, which are set up like inviting, inspiring, home-like vignettes to provide the utmost in lush textures, distinct details, and appealing furnishings. In fact, ideas abound from spring to this anticipated sale, but the bonus on November 24 and 25, from 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. is that everything at Rusticks is on sale – from 20-60 percent off. “After our Thanksgiving sale, we close the store for the season, and open again in the spring with new merchandise and fresh new looks,” communicated Stacie Platt, manager and interior designer. “However, we continue to offer interior design services year-round.” The original Rusticks shop was first located above the Greene & Associates architectural offices in Cashiers at Chestnut 128 N o v e m b e r 2 0 2 3 | T H E L A U R E L M AG A Z I N E . C O M

Square. However, its popularity resulted in the necessity to expand the store space in 1994 and again in 1996. Eventually, a new location was constructed and is located within Canoe Point on Cashiers Lake. Although everything slowed down on the Plateau during the pandemic, 2023 has been “a fantastic year,” said Platt. “We have been blessed with a great season and love being a part of the Cashiers community.” Rusticks offers an extensive line-up of furniture and home décor, as well as complete interior design services. Stacie Platt attends several markets throughout the year to ensure Rusticks is ready to open in April for a new season, offering the freshest home décor, providing Rusticks’ clientele with great options for their mountain homes. New merchandise is received yearround, including before the after-Thanksgiving Day sale. In general, the long-standing, 30-plus-year-old retailer offers the latest “mountain chic’’ ambiance through its extensive

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offerings of living room, dining room, bedroom, patio and outdoor furnishings, lighting, art, and accessories – everything needed to dress a new or refreshen a wellloved home. Styles and designs are based on extensive research of lines and listening closely to customers to learn their wants and needs. In fact, Rusticks strives to provide customers with everything they will need or want for their homes. “With our outdoor selections, our goal has been to help bring the inside feel outdoor and extend the home’s living space to truly embrace the mountain lifestyle,” said Platt. “We are extremely grateful for our clients and customers and we look forward to a great end-of-season sale. The Rusticks team will work hard over the winter to be ready to welcome everyone back when we re-open in April.” by Deena Bouknight Photo by Mary Gillan

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Visit Our Advertisers WEST END

1. On The Verandah Restaurant 2. Highlands Smokehouse 3. High Country Wine & Provisions 5. The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts 6. The Bascom Shop 7. The Dave Drake Ceramic Barn at The Bascom

205. Silver Creek Real Estate Group 208. Highland Hiker Shoes 210. Creative Concepts Salon 211. Highland Hiker

SOUTH END

25. 4118 Kitchen & Bar 27. Dauntless Printing 37. Lupoli Construction 38. Allen Tate/Pat Allen Realty Group 45. Don Leon’s 47. M & Co. Antiques & Eclectic Finds 48. ACP Home Interiors 50. The Summer House 51. Nancy’s Fancys/ The Exchange 58. Blue Elephant Consignment Studio 60. Divine South Baking Company

MAIN STREET

101. Main Street Nursery 102. Rosewood Market 104. Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center 106. Los Vaqueros 121. Highlands Wine Shoppe 124. Landmark Realty 126. Shiraz Oriental Rug Gallery 128. Primary Kitchen + Bar 134. The Southern Way 136. Dutchmans 141. Main Street Gifts 146. Wit’s End Shoppe 147. Calders Coffee Cafe 148. Highlands Fine Art & Estate Jewelry + Wine Shop 152. Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty 153. Allison Diane Clothing 158. C. Orrico 160. TJ Bailey for Men 163. Spoiled Rotten 166. Annawear 167. Christmas Tree 169. Country Club Properties 170. Highlands Pizza Place 174. Elena’s Women’s Golf and Activewear 178. McCulley’s II 180. Bijou 185. Ristorante Paoletti 187. The Dry Sink 190. Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro 191. Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Meadows Mountain Realty 195. Old Edwards Inn 196. Madison’s Restaurant 197. The Wine Garden 198. Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar 203. Country Club Properties

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WRIGHT SQUARE on MAIN

(Factoid: Named after Whiteside hero) 117. Country Club Properties, Wright Square Office 119. Highlands Pharmacy

ON THE HILL

303. Mirror Lake Antiques 305. Jeanie Edwards Fine Art 306. Acorns 308. Highlands Burrito 310. McCulley’s 311. Martha Anne’s 312. The Ugly Dog Public House 313. Old Edwards Inn 318. Peggy Crosby Center: - The Kitchen Carry Away & Catering - Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation 319. Lakeside Restaurant

SPRING VILLAGE

405. Fern of Highlands 406. Brookings Fly Shop

VILLAGE PARK

613. Cleaveland Realty 619. Christie’s Internatonal Real Estate Highlands Cashiers

CAROLINA VILLAGE

701. Mountain Life Properties 709. Wayah Insurance 710. The High Dive 710. The Dancing Bear at the High Dive 712. Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals

NORTH END

811. Edelweiss Highlands 815. Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival 815. Highlands-Cashiers Players 815. Highlands Performing Arts Center 815. Mountain Theatre Company

OUT NC 106

➡ Aery Chiropractic ➡ Peak Experience ➡ Highlands Outpost ➡ Highlands Aerial Park ➡ Vineyard at High Holly ➡ Fire + Water/Fire Mountain ➡ Bella’s Junction Cafe ➡ Sky Valley Country Club

OUT 64 WEST

➡ Jackson Hole Gem Mine

OUT 64 EAST

➡ Black Rock Design Build ➡ Berkshire Hathaway Homes Services Meadows Mountain Realty ➡ WHLC ➡ Highlands Lawn & Garden ➡ High Camp ➡ Skyline Lodge/ Oak Steakhouse ➡ Highlands Rock Yard ➡ Highlands-Cashiers Hospital/ Mission Health ➡ Allen Tate/ Pat Allen Realty Group ➡ Highlands Dermatology ➡ Roman’s Roofing

VISIT FRANKLIN

➡ The Attic Antiques ➡ Diva’s on Main ➡ Market Square Emporium Patisserie ➡ Papa’s Pizza ➡ Smokey Mountain Auction Co. ➡ Trail Mix ➡ Welcome Home .

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

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Visit Our Advertisers NORTH 107

2. Zookeeper Bistro 16. Stork’s - Wrap. Pack. Ship. 19. The Look Boutique 20. Mountain Mermaid 21. Sashay Around Ladies Boutique

THE SHOPS AT CASHIERS COMMONS 25. Bella Cotn 27. Bird Barn & Garden 28. Cashiers Kitchen Co. 30. Bombshell Hair Boutique 31. The Watershed Shoppe 33. Zoller Hardware

THE VILLAGE GREEN 142.Village Green Commons 143. The Village Green

WEST 64

154. Cashiers Valley Smokehouse 155. Cashiers Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center 156. Creekside: - Silver Creek Real Estate Group 157. Sotheby’s International Realty 173. Betsy Paul Properties 176. Lenz Gifts

DOWN 107 NORTH

37. Landmark Realty Group 41. Highland Hiker

➡ Edgewood Antiques & Fine Furnishing ➡ Bazaar Barn

CHESTNUT SQUARE

DOWN 107 SOUTH

AT THE CROSSROADS

43. A Jones Company 45. Cashiers Valley Real Estate 47. Lehotsky & Sons, Builders 55. Fusion Yoga & Wellness 55. The Bungalow Boutique 59. Las Margaritas

➡ Silver Run Reserve

VISIT CULLOWHEE ➡ Four Seasons Landscape

EAST 64

64. Alexander Gardens: - Victoria’s Closet - Victoria’s Closet Shoes & Purses - Vic’s for Men 75. Carolina Rustic Furniture 76. Blue Ridge Bedding 78. Ann Lea Fine Art Gallery 79. Jennings Builders Supply

VILLAGE WALK

80. A-List Antiques 80. Josephine’s Emporium 80. Laura Moser Art 82. The Village Hound 86. Nora & Co. 89. Nearly New Furniture Consignment 90. Gracewear Boutique

SOUTH 107

102. TJ Bailey’s for Men 103. Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming 104. Brookings Fly Shop & Cashiers Village Outfitters 105. Atelier Maison 105. ID.ology Interiors & Design 105. Living Stone Design + Build 107. Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Meadows Mountain Realty 110. McCulley’s 111. Rusticks 112. Vivianne Metzger Antiques 122. Landmark Realty Group 123. Caliber Fine Properties 128. Mountainworks Custom Home Design LTD. 130. The Cashiers Store 136. McKee Properties 137. Bounds Cave Rug Gallery 138. The Orchard Restaurant

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VISIT GLENVILLE

➡ Crawford Construction ➡ Happ’s Place ➡ Silver Creek Real Estate Group

VISIT LAKE TOXAWAY ➡ Appalachian Construction ➡ Bear Tracks Travel Center ➡ The Greystone Inn

VISIT SAPPHIRE : ➡ Balistreri Realty ➡ Hidden Valley Tavern ➡ Sapphire Valley Real Estate VISIT BREVARD:

➡ Meraki Escapes ➡ Number 7 Arts

VISIT ROSMAN :

➡ Headwaters Outfitters

VISIT WAYNESVILLE :

➡ Metzger’s Burl Wood Gallery

, s r e i h s Ca arolina C th r o N For a complete listing please visit our website, thelaurelmagazine.com. Being added to our listing is easy! Simply advertise with The Laurel.

135 N OV EM B ER 2023 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

H ISTORY

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HISTORY Pages 140-142

photo by Sarah Valentine

H ISTORY

Thank You, Sarah A reminder from – naturally – the Cashiers Historical Society, that Thanksgiving is designed to foster gratitude for whatever our circumstances may deliver.

e take the turkey, dressing and cranberry sauce for granted, but if it were not for Sarah Hale whose persistence for over 38 years led to Thanksgiving being named a national holiday, there might not be a Thanksgiving. Since 1849 Sarah had written every president and in her final letter written to President Abraham Lincoln, she once again is requesting a national holiday. Her letter to Lincoln begins “Permit me, as Editress of the Lady’s Book (Godey’s) to request a few minutes of your precious

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time, while laying out the subject of deep interest to myself and – as I trust – even to the President of our Republic, of some importance. This subject is to have the day of our annual Thanksgiving, a National and fixed Union Festival.” The letter continues for several paragraphs with Sarah achieving her wish. President Lincoln issued a proclamation that urged Americans to observe the last Thursday in November as a day of thanksgiving. Finally in 1941 Congress made Thanksgiving an official National

holiday with all states celebrating on the same day. Unfortunately, Ms. Hale died in 1879 never seeing the success of her persistence that started in 1849 with a campaign of writing letters to each of the presidents. In 2023 Americans can once again thank Sarah Hale for saving Thanksgiving as we all enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving meal. by Sandi Rogers, Cashiers Historical Society

H ISTORY

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H ISTORY

A Successful 2023 Highlands Historical Society’s 2023 calendar was laced with events that will resonate far into the future, all shepherded by volunteer Kim Daugher ty.

he Highlands Historical Society enjoyed a successful and rewarding season that featured many milestones – a well-attended Memorial Day grand opening weekend; a near-record number of visitors to the Highlands Historical Village and historic Prince House; a rained-out Big Hats, Bow Ties brunch that was still a successful fundraiser thanks to generous patrons and sponsors; and, Fall’s magnificent Dahlia Festival. They also brought back Walk in Memorial Park which was attended by over 200 folks who heard from the ghosts of Highlands past. Their season ended with Heritage Day which brought together Highlands families who have lived in our community for several generations. Thanks to a generous grant from Cullasaja Women’s Outreach, they constructed beautiful stone stairs from the sidewalk onto the grounds, making the Village much more accessible to pedestrians. Culminating this successful season of hard work, the Society and past board 142 N OV EM B ER 2023 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

member and current volunteer extraordinaire, Kim Daugherty, were honored to receive the Highlands Chamber of Commerce Robert B. Dupree Award for Outstanding Community Service. Kim is the energetic mastermind who brings the Dahlia Festival to life every fall, whose passion and hard work have evolved the festival from its humble beginnings as a single bloom show to its current town-wide celebration of flowers, music, food, and fun that is free for all to enjoy. Kim first dipped her foot into the Dahlia Festival in 2013 by volunteering to help with the patron’s party and checking in flowers at the single bloom show. Kim’s energy, enthusiasm, imagination, and vision of how the Festival could grow soon saw her at the helm, at a time that coincided with the pandemic shutdown. Testament to Kim’s faith and positive view of life she never considered that a negative but saw an opportunity to spread flowers, love, and hope throughout town. Things were glum and we needed joy and it just so happens that joy

is Kim’s thing. Nature is also Kim’s thing as she is an avid hiker, and she envisioned nature giving us all a big hug so with that vision she and an incredible team of volunteers sprang into action and the 2020 Dahlia Festival brought the first of the now loved Dahlia vignettes throughout town. This year’s festival was bigger and brighter than ever with the single bloom show at the Bascom having over 400 entries. Over 50 non-profits and businesses created vignettes throughout town. A day-long celebration on the grounds of the Historical Village included food, music, lectures, and book signings. The evening culminated with a concert in Kelsey Hutchinson Park, sponsored by Kim and the Dahliabolicals – volunteers who contributed to the evening finale. Kim lovingly refers to the event as a three-ring circus and acknowledges that it wouldn’t be possible without the hundreds of volunteers and HHS Board members. by Mary Jane McCall

H ISTORY

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L A K E T O X AWA Y

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L A K E T O X AWA Y

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H ISTORY

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LIFESTYLES & WELLNESS Pages 148-165

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

Started in Friendship

June 1, 1968 Susan, Robert E., Hunter, and Hilary, 1994

Susan and Robert E. Smith

An unquenchable sense of playfulness – demonstrated by a splash in an Alabama creek and a frantic critter chase – has infused Susan and Rober t E. Smith’s 55 years of love and adventure.

he first time Susan Smith saw Robert E. he was vaulting toward the water, buffeted in the air by a rope swing, before plunging into a creek in Pelham, Alabama. Amidst the joyful chaos of bodies hurtling into the water that summer day in 1964, she couldn’t help but notice the broad smiles and gleeful laughs of the fraternity boys and thought to herself, “Look at those guys, they’re having so much fun.” Little did she know then that Robert E. 148 N OV EM B ER 2023 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

was about to become a significant part of her life. It was the summer before Susan’s sophomore year at Birmingham Southern College, where Robert E. was about to begin his freshman year. They were all gathered at the ATO pledge party, hosted at Susan’s grandparents’ farm – chosen because Susan was dating one of the fraternity members. Now, 55 years later they both fondly recall that day as the occasion of their first meeting – though they didn’t exchange a word back then.

It would be several months before destiny intervened again – when Robert E spotted Susan dashing out of her dorm in hot pursuit of a small critter she kept in her room. “She caught my attention,” he reminisced, “she was wearing a skirt and a white blouse with a sweater. I thought she was adorable and I couldn’t help but be intrigued. We stopped and had a chat.” Their connection deepened during the following summer when they both attended summer school, a smaller program with a

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS more intimate group of students. By then, Robert E. had learned from mutual friends that Susan had parted ways with her former boyfriend, just as he had with the girl he had briefly dated. One day in the snack bar, he spotted Susan engrossed in a game of bridge and struck up a conversation. Ever friendly, Susan invited him to play her hand but it soon became apparent he was a novice at the game. Ultimately Susan taught him how to play, and as he learned they grew closer. It didn’t take long for Robert E. to call and ask her out. Their first date was a night at the movies. It was an evening filled with animated conversation. “We had an incredible time, and our conversation flowed effortlessly,” Robert E. recalled. “There was an undeniable spark that I felt, and I’m pretty sure she felt it too.” As they talked, they discovered shared interests and connections. Both had ties to Birmingham Southern College – Susan’s parents were alumni and Robert E.’s father had spent a year there. Moreover, the two families had roots in Birmingham and their fathers had served during World War II. Susan’s father trained pilots during the war, mirroring Robert E’s father’s service during the same conflict. The relationship that started in friendship blossomed into romance during Susan’s junior year, and they started dating exclusively. As Susan completed her undergraduate studies and embarked on a path to pursue a Masters in Speech and Hearing Therapy at the University of Alabama, their commitment to each other deepened. But these were tumultuous times marked by the uncertainty of the Vietnam War, and like many young men of that era, Robert E. grappled with an uncertain future. The looming possibility of receiving a draft letter hung over them like a black cloud, as Susan recalled. During the winter of her first year in graduate school, Susan was mopping

the floor of her small Tuscaloosa apartment when Robert E. surprised her by dropping to one knee and proposing. “Susan leaped into my arms, catching me off guard, and it was one of the happiest days of my life,” Robert E. fondly remembered. By that time, he had made a clear decision regarding his military service. In fact, he had signed up for an Air Force Officer Training Course and was awaiting assignment for basic training. They were married on June 1, 1968, in Birmingham in the garden of an old antebellum home. With 50 close friends and family as witnesses, Susan wearing an A-line white dress with a graceful long lace train, lovingly crafted by her mother. Remarkably, the same wedding gown would later be worn by both Susan and Robert’s sisters, marking a unique family tradition. After the wedding, Susan completed her final year of graduate studies and Robert E. worked at the VA hospital while awaiting the air force. By the time she graduated in 1969, Robert E. was doing his basic training in San Antonio. In August 1969 Susan accompanied him on assignment to the base in Chanute, Illinois, for training in aircraft maintenance. In 1970 Robert E. was transferred to Okinawa, where they stayed for the next three years. These were happy and fulfilling years. Robert E. was assigned to military airlift command and Susan taught the third-grade children of military families. Susan fell in love with the Okinawan people and their culture and they traveled frequently – flying space-available on military planes, visiting Taiwan and Seoul, Hong Kong and the Philippine’s. Their first child, their son Hunter, was born there in 1971. Robert E. was released from the military in 1973, though he remained in the Reserves, and the family returned to Tuscaloosa for Robert E.’s graduate studies. Susan gave birth to their daughter Hilary in 1974 in the same Birmingham

hospital where she was born. After receiving his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, Robert E worked in administration at the University of Alabama, and Susan taught school - for nine years at the Montessori pre-school and later at the neighborhood elementary school. Yet, for years they had dreamed of one day living in Highlands. – a fantasy that became reality in 1994 when The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center welcomed them to their team. Robert E. initially took on the role of Director of Operations, but as needs evolved, he embraced various other positions. Meanwhile, Susan directed the Elder Hostel program. A decade later, Robert E. retired, followed by Susan two years after. Today they actively engage with local Highlands boards and non-profits, wholeheartedly contributing to their beloved community. As they celebrate 55 years of marriage, Robert E. is clearly Susan’s biggest fan. He admires her ability to excel in everything she pursues, whether it’s teaching, managing programs at The Mountain or contributing to the town’s welfare. “She has this incredible talent for making things better, for turning dreams into reality. And I’ve always found her uber attractive,”he says with a chuckle. Susan, in turn, points to Robert E.’s qualities as father and his respect and kindnesses for everyone around him, “He’s amazingly laid back and handles everything with grace, earning the respect of all who know him. His sense of humor remains intact and people genuinely enjoy his company. “ Together, they take pride in their children and their accomplishments and the strong bonds that tie the family together. by Marlene Osteen

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LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

Left to Right: Carly Williams holding baby Taylor Williams, Reilynn Williams, and Braylee Williams.

We Are Thankful

Monica Vinson

Mary Jane McCall

There’s so much to be thankful for here on the Plateau.

ratitude is a state of mind here in the mountains. Those of us lucky enough to visit or call this place home are thankful for the loving community, natural beauty, beautiful sunrises and sunsets, amazing vistas, and the splendor of the changing seasons. Thanksgiving is a natural time to dive deep and recognize all our blessings so we reached out to discover the many things we’re grateful for. As for this writer, I am thankful for the natural beauty, for good friends and neighbors, a wonderful son, great fur companions, and all the smiling, helpful faces that greet me throughout town. I’m also especially grateful for local medical and veterinary care and those compassionate individuals who hold our hands and our hearts through thick and thin. Oh, and chocolate, I’m truly thankful for chocolate. Jim Hill and his wife Karen visited Highlands celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary and shared that they are grateful for that union, and their wonderful daughters, grandchildren and son-in-law. Jim’s grandfather, Felix

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Grundy Hill, was born here and taught him what it means to be a husband, father and grandfather and Jim wanted to see the place that was the original source of that wisdom. (Jim is the great-great grandson of Highlands’ first mayor, Stanhope Hill.) Carly Williams says she is thankful for a healthy family, fresh mountain air to breathe, and holiday foods and traditions. Her daughter, Braylee, is thankful for her baby sister, her family and her teachers. Younger daughter, Reilynn is thankful for Mommy, Daddy, Baby Taylor, Braylee, Lucy the cat and playgrounds. Ken and Carol Holland, part-time residents, are thankful to have a home in this historical, beautiful town, for all the well-kept history, and for all the fresh air on the mountain. Monica Vinson is thankful for unconditional love, uncontrollable laughter, daily blessings, weekends, and raw cookie dough. Candi Allen is thankful to live in such a naturally beautiful place surrounded

by amazing family and friends. Her daughter, Kimber, is thankful for family because they always support and care for her no matter what, and for her dogs because they bring so much joy and love to her life. Greg Demonet is grateful for a great family and good job. Duane McHan echoes thankfulness for having a large family close by, his children and grandkids, and for having a great place to work and great people to work with. Paula Ho is grateful for HighlandsCashiers Hospital providing her with the resources necessary to provide quality nursing care in the ED. (These three form part of the caring team of nurses in the Emergency Department at the H-C Hospital.) Tammy Lowe is thankful for family and friends, children who love to learn and a magnificent Plateau to live on.

by Mary Jane McCall

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The Best Small Mountain Town

Well, it turns out that Mr. Kelsey and Mr. Hutchinson knew what they were doing. Travel + Leisure Magazine just named Highlands The Best Small Mountain Town in the United States.

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f you’re a regular reader of this magazine – whether you’re a native, or seasonal resident, or someone just here on the Plateau for a quick visit – you weren’t surprised that Travel + Leisure Magazine recently named Highlands The Best Small Mountain Town in the United States.

Nashville, and Charlotte — modern-day Highlands is a summer retreat for those looking to escape the humidity, and it’s a year-round haven for hiking, waterfall spotting, art, music, and top-tier dining and hospitality experiences.”

The magazine examined Highlands’ past of welcoming the outside world – that was the goal of founders Samuel Kesley and Clinton Hutchinson back in 1871 – and the enticements that it still offers to visitors and residents.

“Travel + Leisure’s recognition of Highlands as the Best Small Mountain Town in the U.S. is a demonstration of the incredible spirit and warmth of our community, and the dedication of our local businesses,” says Kaye McHan, executive director of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC. “It is a testament to our commitment to preserving our natural beauty, embracing our cultural heritage, and fostering a welcoming environment for all.”

“Located within the Nantahala National Forest at the highest crest of the Western North Carolina Plateau, the area now known as Highlands was a hunting ground for the Cherokee that was settled by people from around the U.S. in the late 1800s,” the magazine said when announcing the award. “Driving distance from major cities in the Southeast — including Charleston,

The designation touched off a flurry of positive responses in the town.

“Highlands being named America’s Best Small Mountain Town only underscores what those of us who live here already

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS knew,” says Hilary Wilkes of Highland Hiker. “This is a special place – whether you’ve lived here your entire life or are visiting the area for the first time – and it’s no surprise that those who decided upon this designation chose Highlands.” Laura Huerta, the owner of Lakeside Restaurant, offers a deep dive. “I think the positives of the award far exceed any negatives. We are in fact completely set up as a tourist destination here in Highlands,” she says. “Most businesses would not survive/thrive without a good deal of tourism. We have soooo much to offer. We are quaint, friendly, safe, walkable, unique, surrounded by beauty and nature, shopping is fabulous, we have a fantastic dining scene and contrary to what most say, it’s quite diverse and price points do vary. We aren’t all ‘high’ end. There’s also a budding music scene which I find to be very cool. We are dog friendly, kid friendly, and honestly it’s a kind and

friendly town in general. From hikers to bikers to golfers to fly fishing we really have a little something for everyone. I love Highlands and feel very fortunate to call it my home and have a thriving business. I love our locals and I also love the visitors. So yes in my opinion, I do feel it’s a well-deserved honor.” Echoing Laura and Hilary is Richard Delany, the president and managing director of Old Edward Inn Hospitality Group. “Highlands has so much to offer as a year-round community now, thanks to the ongoing contributions of our residents, business owners and workers, the mayor and town board, and other nonprofit and civic organizations,” he says. “We have a town filled with unique shops, galleries, green spaces, live music, great bars and restaurants, not to mention world-class visual and performing arts centers, nature center, community center, and many other amenities unique in a town our size,

like pickleball courts, covered pool, ice skating, dog park, and skateboard park. I think it’s this slice-of-life quality that makes our little town so special—and of course the clean, pristine natural beauty and recreation opportunities we enjoy here. “The creative spirit, respect for our environment, and neighborly camaraderie are alive and thriving here, and that type of lifestyle is something to cherish. It’s why more people are making their year-round home here, which helps further strengthen and sustain a town. When we receive an honor like this, it can help us see our town through the eyes of others and realize how fortunate we all are to call Highlands our home.” by Luke Osteen

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LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

Biomechanical Compensation

Pay attention to those little aches and pains and you can spare yourself a world of hur t.

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Dr. Sue Aery

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

“

Biomechanical compensation” can be a strong couple of words and they’re often misunderstood when they pertain to body biomechanics.

the forces of movement, it becomes out of alignment and changes the motion patterns. It also causes the pelvic area to be misaligned or crooked.

Let me explain. When we experience an injury to the body, we don’t always know what has happened, and before you know it, our body has already triggered the compensatory components to “protect” us.

Instead of magnifying this unbalanced situation and walking around leaning

Further injury can be likely because the body has a mechanism to compensate for the temporary loss of function. A good example is a pelvic spinal injury, which usually involves the sacroiliac joint. When this occurs, the sacroiliac joint (connection between the spine and pelvis) becomes rigid and unmoving. This can be very painful and can cause a major imbalance in our movement. Instead of the sacroiliac joint taking all

…allow the body to restore its normal function, removing the pain and healing the injury.

more to one side, the body creates a compensation to offload the damaged joint. This new force is usually taken on by the spine or sometimes the hip, knee and ankle. If this newly developed compensatory pattern is ignored, the body will embrace this new position, and can develop another functional problem as a result.

Over time, this damage can be painful and debilitating. A chiropractor or massage or physical therapist can usually detect this abnormal position and pattern and, together, we can work to unravel the problem and compensation. This can allow the body to restore its normal function, removing the pain and healing the injury. This can take a few weeks, but in the end, it’s so worth the time! Full function feels great and prevents injuries down the road. Be smart about the small aches and pains in the body and take care of them before they become big and unsurmountable pain patterns! by Dr. Sue Aery, Aery Chiropractic & Acupuncture

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LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

Drive for Good Health Highlands Country Club’s 41st Annual Bob Jones Invitational raises a record-breaking $284,000 to suppor t primary health care on the Plateau.

he Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation is celebrating the success of Highlands Country Club’s 41st Annual Bob Jones Invitational Golf Tournament, which raised an unprecedented amount of over $284,000 in net proceeds. These funds will be used to support the Blue Ridge Health-Highlands Cashiers (BRH-HC) clinic, which provides vital primary care services to the community, regardless of their ability to pay. The Bob Jones Invitational Golf Tournament is a prestigious event held every year in August at Highlands Country Club, honoring the legendary Bob Jones. This tournament has a longstanding history of excellence, attracting Walker Cup Players and consistently selling out. The impact of the Bob Jones Invitational on the community is immeasurable. Over the last three years, the event has prioritized addressing the primary care shortage on the Plateau through its support of the BRH-HC clinic, the 158 N OV EM B ER 2023 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

cornerstone investment for the Health Foundation. Throughout the past four decades, the Bob Jones Invitational has contributed nearly $7 million to vital health services on the Plateau. The BRH-HC clinic plays a pivotal role in providing high-quality healthcare to hundreds of families of all ages in the area. Importantly, no one is turned away from the clinic, ensuring that everyone receives the care they need. The services offered at the clinic are crucial for ensuring local access to healthcare, particularly for those who may not have the means to pay for it. “The Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation is immensely grateful for the overwhelming support received from Highlands Country Club and the Bob Jones Invitational Golf Tournament,” said Robin Tindall, Health Foundation CEO and Executive Director. “This support enables the Foundation to continue its important work in improving the health and well-being of the community. The record-breaking amount raised this year is a testament to the dedication and

generosity of those involved.” The success of the Bob Jones Invitational not only highlights Highlands Country Club’s commitment to supporting healthcare but also showcases the immense impact that can be achieved through charitable generosity. The funds raised will go a long way in sustaining and expanding the critical services provided by the BRH-HC clinic, ultimately benefiting the health and lives of numerous individuals and families in the area. The success of this year’s Bob Jones Invitational reflects the enduring legacy of the tournament, its commitment to the community, and its ability to bring people together for a common cause. The Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation expresses its heartfelt appreciation to Highlands Country Club and all those involved in making this record-breaking year possible. by Josh Bryson, Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation

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What Should You Know About RMDs?

ou may spend decades contributing to various retirement accounts.

But for some accounts, such as a traditional IRA and 401(k), you must start withdrawing funds at a certain point. What should you know about this requirement? To begin with, the rules governing these withdrawals — technically called required minimum distributions, or RMDs. — have changed recently. For many years, individuals had to begin taking their RMDs (which are based on the account balance and the IRS’ life expectancy factor) when they turned 70½. The original SECURE Act of 2019 raised this age to 72, and SECURE 2.0, passed in 2022, raised it again, to 73. (If you turned 73 in 2023, and you were 72 in 2022 when the RMD limit was still 72, you should have taken your first

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RMD for 2022 by April 1 of this year. You will then need to take your 2023 RMD by Dec. 31. And going forward, you’ll also need to take your RMDs by the end of every year.) Not all retirement accounts are subject to RMDs. They aren’t required for a Roth IRA, and, starting in 2024, won’t be required for a Roth 401(k) or 403(b) plan. But if your account does call for RMDs, you do need to take them, because if you don’t, you could face tax penalties. Previously, this penalty was 50 percent of the amount you were supposed to have taken, but SECURE 2.0 reduced it to 25 percent. When you take your RMDs, you need to be aware of a key issue: taxes. RMDs are taxed as ordinary income, and, as such, they could potentially bump you into a higher tax bracket and possibly even increase your Medicare premiums, which are determined by your modified

LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS adjusted gross income. Are there any ways you could possibly reduce an RMD-related tax hike? You might have some options. Here are two to consider: Convert tax-deferred accounts to Roth IRA. You could convert some, or maybe all, of your tax-deferred retirement accounts to a Roth IRA. By doing so, you could lower your RMDs in the future — while adding funds to an account you’re never required to touch. So, if you don’t really need all the money to live on, you could include the remainder of the Roth IRA in your estate plans, providing an initially tax-free inheritance to your loved ones. However, converting a tax-deferred account to a Roth IRA will generate taxes in the year of conversion, so you’d need the money available to pay this tax bill. Donate RMDs to charity. In what’s known as a qualified charitable

distribution, you can move up to $100,000 of your RMDs directly from a traditional IRA to a qualified charity, avoiding the taxes that might otherwise result if you took the RMDs yourself. After 2023, the $100,000 limit will be indexed to inflation. Of course, before you start either a Roth IRA conversion or a qualified charitable distribution, you will need to consult with your tax advisor, as both these moves have issues you must consider and may not be appropriate for your situation. But it’s always a good idea to know as much as you can about the various aspects of RMDs — they could play a big part in your retirement income strategy. Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

Todd Holder

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

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LIFESTYLES & W ELLNESS

Choosing Long Term Care Over Home Care

Eckerd Living Center is the prime choice when the conversation turns to long-term care options on the Plateau.

e all have aging family members and, at some point, many of us will be faced with the challenges of either establishing home care or looking for long-term care options for our loved ones. Eckerd Living Center at Highlands-Cashiers Hospital is a great resource for our community. One of the biggest benefits of choosing a long-term care option, such as Eckerd Living Center, is that our staff takes care of everything so you don’t have to coordinate care. Our licensed nurses and certified aides care for your loved ones 24 hours a day. Quarterly care conferences are also held to discuss your loved one’s plan of care with an interdisciplinary team of professionals that include dieticians, 162 N OV EM B ER 2023 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

wound care specialists, nurses, social services, activity directors, and therapy professionals. Any medications our residents require are filled onsite and delivered by skilled staff. Another benefit with choosing Eckerd Living Center is our consistent staffing. This means that your family member recognizes the faces that are caring for them. Our residents have daily access to healthcare providers and transportation to offsite doctor’s appointments when needed. When it’s time, we also work with area palliative care and hospice care providers for end-of-life care for your loved one. All the basic amenities are included for our residents such as all meals, snacks,

and housekeeping services. An extra perk is our onsite salon for hair and nail services. We also offer daily activities to encourage cognitive stimulation and social interaction and have customized exercise programs to maintain every level of ability. Off-campus group activities are also scheduled on a regular basis. Both private and semi-private room options are currently available at Eckerd Living Center. Give us a call at (828) 526-1315 to learn more. by Tom Neal, RN, MBA, MHA CEO/CNO, Highlands-Cashiers Hospital

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A Timeless Quest

Longevity results from a subtle blending of physical, mental, and emotional wellness.

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Ashby Underwood-Garner

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he human longevity quest is timeless.

According to a study in 2020, the health and wellness market worldwide was estimated at over $4.4 trillion, a figure which is set to increase to almost $7 trillion by 2025. But how do we know if it’s working? Some of the strongest people who practice Yoga and Pilates at the studio are well into their seventies. I am surrounded and inspired by those who are aging well because they put physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual fitness at the top of their list. I wondered for a time if we could recreate a Blue Zone here in Highlands. After all, we have wood to chop, farm-fresh food, mountains to climb, and ever-growing opportunities for community involvement. A Blue Zone is defined as a region or society where significant numbers of people live to be over 100 years old, and

also succeeded in maintaining a traditional lifestyle with physical activity that extends beyond the age of 80. Reduced levels of stress through family and community support for the oldest, as well as the consumption of locally produced food seems to be an important factor in the lives of centenarians. Blue Zones have recently been popularized by the Netflix Series Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones to discover the ultimate wellness factors distilled here: Food, Movement, Purpose. The principles for living a good life from these remote regions of the world, or places untouched by the convenience of the industrial food complex, are some of the most simple wisdoms. Even though we are one of the most well-resourced countries, we culturally fall short by advertising sickness and decline as a part of aging. For instance, delivering a message to

a society of stress and burnout that we need to “take a break from it all.” This is slippery when we have so many conveniences we are already “on break,” compared to cultures who work hard physically and have for generations. How do the cultures defined as Blue Zones live without supplements, new yoga mats, essential oils – without subscribing to the wellness market? The hustle culture is a real deterrent in the wellness world. In your search for wellness, resist the bouncing and frenetic impulses to “feel good” at all times. Instead, true wellness is about realness. People now embracing this idea of creating their personal blue zone are touched by the purity and earnestness of hard work, staying connected to the land, and investing in their constitutional strength. by Ashby Underwood-Garner, Yoga Highlands

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L SI FEER EE S & WELLNESS SSE VTR IY CVL EI C

ACCOMMODATIONS

BACKGROUND SCREENING

BEAUTY

CABINETRY

CLEANING

CONSTRUCTION

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L I F E S T Y L E S & WS EE LR EESI CS E S LE VN R I CV

HOME DECOR

INSURANCE

PRINTING

REAL ESTATE

RECREATION

ROOFING

SERVICE

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BUSI NESS

GIVING BACK Pages 170-187

photo by Charles Johnson

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The Huskymobile

The Huskeymobile’s precious cargo is the embodiment of hope and joy, tinged with an element of poignancy.

will never forget the look on that car salesman’s face in Fort Myers, Florida, in 2009.

His name was Louis. He was a really nice guy. He sold me a Mustang convertible a couple of years before. That Mustang was a lot of fun. Kodi, my “heart dog” Husky, was happy to ride in that little back seat, as long as the top was down. Hemi, the baby of the Husky pack, always insisted on riding shotgun. And then came Max. I went back to Louis, and I said I wanted some kind of big ol’ school bus SUV. I wasn’t picky. He had a 2005 Yukon XL on the lot. “It’s got three rows of seats!” he exclaimed. “Can they be removed?” I answered. Blank stare. “The back row seat can,” Louis said, after regaining his car salesman composure. “Great, let’s remove it. How about the middle seats?” I answered. Blank stare. After another awkward pause, Louis said: “They can’t be removed but they can fold down.” “Great, let’s fold them down,” I said. And thus, the Huskymobile was born. The only GMC Yukon 170 N OV EM B ER 2023 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

XL that only has two seats for human passengers. The Huskymobile brought my boys and me to our Forever Home at the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society in the spring of 2012. Over the years, the Huskies have not only enjoyed adventures all across the Plateau, the vehicle that brought them here has also been called into service to assist in CHHS animal rescue, most recently last year in South Carolina. And sometimes the Huskymobile has also been where we said goodbye. When we didn’t want to get him off the stretcher, Dr. Emily crawled into the back of the Huskymobile one Saturday afternoon to help me say goodbye to Grandpa Jones. After all my senior Huskies forged a path ahead of me to the Rainbow Bridge over the years, last year after much thought, and not just a small amount of well-meaning coercion from loved ones, I decided to adopt who I referred to as my “bucket list Husky puppy.” Just one more Husky, I rationalized with my inner self, before I kick the bucket. And maybe this time, for the first time, a Husky with no “story,” no issues, just a normal puppy. I truly believe that’s when God laughs. Her name is Oakley. My husky puppy (a puppy mill survivor) developed cataracts and was blind by the age of 11 months. Yes, a puppy can get cataracts. The last two months have been difficult. Oakley and I have been putting a lot of miles on the Huskymobile.

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David Stroud and Oakley

Last month was Surgery Day. On the drive down to Greenville I thought of this quote from the Shawshank Redemption: “I find I’m so excited that I can barely sit still or hold a thought in my head. I think it’s the excitement only a free man can feel. A free man at a start of a long journey whose conclusion is uncertain.” Change the word “man” to “dog” and I wondered if that is what Oakley felt. I think of all the lifesaving and life-changing trips the Huskymobile has ever made, but I believe this trip Oakley and I made together was the greatest one yet. The surgery was successful. So I will end this story with two three-word phrases: Oakley can see. And… Thank you, God. 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. For more information, call (828) 743-5752 or visit us online at www.chhumanesociety.org. Tax-deductible donations to support our lifesaving work can be mailed to CHHS, P.O. Box 638, Cashiers, NC 28717. by David Stroud, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society

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Day by Day Carpe Diem’s commitment to optimism and hope has carried it through this year of tumult and change.

ovember, the month we celebrate gratitude and thankfulness. What makes us wait until the 11th month of the year to do that? At Carpe Diem Farms, no matter what we are faced with, our daily mantra, every day of every year, is to be grateful

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and thankful. We have had the opportunity since 1997 to call the farm home to the work of our 501(c)(3) foundation. Day by day – because of the horses – men, women and especially children have been able to learn and grow through a multitude of programs and activities.

There have been 23 horses, the backbone of our programs, who have participated as the teachers here on the farm. Fifteen are buried and at rest in the St. Francis Cemetery. Kaleb is in Bulls Gap, Tennessee, enjoying his retirement leading a band of bachelors in the pastures of Three Bulls Farm. Jack, who

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was on loan for a few years from High Pasture, moved to Atlanta years ago and now there are five who remain in our herd at CDF. Anna, our Spotted Walking Horse and alpha mare, arrived as a three-monthold, 22 years ago; next, a Morgan, Battersea Violet from Virginia, arrived as a three-year-old and is now 18. Violet is the last of our Battersea Morgans. We were blessed with Bess, KnightStar and Tracy. Issabeau’s Knightwatch, aka

Izzy, an Oldenburg from West Virginia, arrived at six, now 17, Quarter horse Reebocs Mercedes, our youngest, after 11 years here is now 16 and finally, our mini, Pumpkin we believe to be 32, is our wise elder. In addition to the horses, the place provides a respite, a sanctuary of Mother Nature. The farm has the headwaters of two creeks, incredible hiking trails leading all the way to Yellow Mountain, and a seven-circuit stone-bordered labyrinth,

a 25-year registered participant of the World-Wide Labyrinth Project, all providing peaceful tranquility far from the noise and din of the city. Perhaps you can understand why we don’t wait for November to give thanks and express daily gratitude. Have a blessed season. by Sue Blair, Carpe Diem Farms

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Gather ‘Round the Angel Tree Greystone Inn’s Angel Tree program, now in its sixth year, is a precious beacon of love and hope for local children.

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or the sixth year in a row, The Greystone Inn has partnered with Lake Toxaway Charities for their annual Angel Tree program. During this season of giving, the community surrounding Lake Toxaway comes together to assist more than 200 school children throughout the Rosman area. While also including senior citizens and people with disabilities in this effort, the Angel Tree program has certainly added to the heartwarming and generous characteristics of each holiday season. “It’s been a gift for our team to work with Lake Toxaway Charities and witness the generosity of our community and Greystone guests in supporting the Angel Tree program,” said Shannon Ellis, who owns The Greystone Inn alongside her husband, Geoff Ellis. The national idea to provide gifts to underprivileged children was established more than 30 years ago under the Prison Fellowship’s Angel Tree program;

initially, it was set up to make certain Christmas gifts were offered to children on behalf of their mothers and/or fathers who were serving time in prison. The original program’s message focused on God’s love and forgiveness. Through countless community efforts all over the country, such as the Angel Tree program in the Rosman area, Angel Tree has served over six million children. For those who wish to give this holiday season to support The Greystone Inn/Lake Toxaway Charities Angel Tree program, a $250 tax-deductible donation can sponsor a child, senior citizen, or disabled person in the community and provide gifts that spark joy. Wooden angel ornaments don The Greystone’s glowing Christmas tree and symbolize various gifts requested, such as toys, new clothing, food, and other essential items. Many community members who give are touched by the Angel Tree program each

year, shared Ellis, adding, ““Our annual tree lighting party is a special night as we continue to see ‘angels sponsoring angels’ and we come together to celebrate and thank the individuals and educators who play the most important role educating and supporting the recipients of the Angel Tree program.” Don’t miss out on the Christmas Tree Lighting on Thursday, December 14. Anyone in the community is invited to visit The Greystone Inn and its 2023 Angel Tree. To help the community shine this season by joining the Angel Tree program alongside The Greystone Inn and Lake Toxaway Charities, anyone can also become a sponsor by purchasing an angel via the website at thegreystoneinnmarket.com/collections/angel-treegiving, or by calling The Greystone Inn at (828) 966-4700. by Becca Smith

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Better Together

Big Justin and his Little

Dedicated volunteers make a Big difference in the lives of their Littles.

ince its inception in 1904, Big Brothers Big Sisters’ main goal was to build strong relationships between Bigs and their Littles. While the creation of Big Brothers Big Sisters was to provide support to children that needed positive role models in their life, the impact has extended far beyond just the Littles. Focusing heavily on positive relationships and creating strong bonds has also extended to benefiting the Bigs as well. What may initially start with an adult who has some extra time and wants to give back to a child in need within their community,

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often becomes a life-long friendship that Bigs and Littles will tell you greatly impacted their lives for the better. By volunteering just a few hours a month, a Big will say that while they have introduced their Little to new things, their Little has in fact done the same in return for them. Many Bigs share about learning different cultures, religions, traditions, and so much more. While it seems that just a few hours would have a minimal impact, it is quite the opposite. Littles form bonds with their Bigs and look forward to seeing them and sharing how things

GI V I NG BAC K such as their grades in school, participation in a sport they might play, a part they have in an upcoming play, and even harder topics, becomes something positive Littles must anticipate because they know they have safety in an adult to talk to. There are degrees of involvement based on a volunteer’s availability. A Site-Based Match asks a Big to spend an hour a week at their Little’s school to help with homework and activities and you only interact in-person at their school. This match is an important one because Little’s thrive off the individualized attention provided from their Big and gives them the opportunity for additional help. If you want to be able to experience things with your Little outside of school, then a Community-Based Match is where you want to be! This asks Big’s to spend quality time with their Little outside of school doing activities that are of interest to the Big and Little together. This type of match allows the Little to bond with their Big away from their school setting in a more personalized interactive environment. These matches are asked to commit to four to eight hours a month, with more flexibility to accommodate both the Big and Littles schedules. This is a great option for any part-time residents who have wanted to volunteer but are afraid they could not be due to not being residents year-round. To become more involved, the process begins with completing an online application. Once a potential Big’s application is received and processed you will be contacted about setting up an in-person interview as well as training to become a Big. From there a Little is carefully chosen and a meet up will be scheduled for the Big and Little to meet, as well as the parent or guardian, and the program coordinator. These positive relationships are the cornerstone to Big Brothers Big Sisters’ continued success within the community, which is why community involvement is key. Without community involvement in the form of volunteers, Big Brothers Big Sisters would not exist. Volunteering to be a Big is a small-time commitment that has a big impact. It takes Little to be a Big! For anyone interested in becoming a Big, you can visit bbbswnc.org and apply. by Courtney Scarborough, BBBS Program Coordinator

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Incredible Funding for Local Nonprofits

Cullasaja Women’s Outreach’s commitment to boosting the for tunes of Plateau nonprofits has reached every corner of the Plateau.

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n September, Cullasaja Women’s Outreach, an independent collective of women, granted a record $335,000 to Highlands-Cashiers area nonprofits. Twenty-nine local nonprofits were the beneficiaries of those grants. Partnering with the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, CWO established a donor-directed charities fund that has enabled the group to raise funds each summer. Since its inception in 2006, CWO has assisted more than 42 local not-for-profit and charitable organizations in their efforts to enhance the community, investing $2.8 million in grants. Its 2023 grants process was chaired by CWO members Lindy Colson Harrison, Nancy Harrison, and Jo Hill. Individual awards range from $2,500 to $25,000. Recipients included: Big Brothers Big Sisters; Blue Ridge Free Dental Clinic; Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau; Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society; Cashiers Historical Society; Community

Care Clinic of Highlands-Cashiers; Counseling & Psychotherapy Center of Highlands; Fishes and Loaves; Friends of the Albert Carlton Library; Friends of Panthertown; Girls on the Run; Highlands Biological Foundation; Highlands Cashiers Chamber Music; Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust; Highlands-Cashiers Players; Highlands Community Child Development Center; Highlands Emergency Council; Highlands Hurricane Swim Team; Highlands Historical Society; Hudson Library; International Friendship Center; Junior Appalachian Musicians® Blue Ridge; The Literacy Council of Highlands, Inc.; Mountain Theatre Company; Peggy Crosby Community Service Center; Performing Arts Center Youth Theater Program; Pisgah Legal Services; The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts; and Summit Charter School. Forty-three percent of CWO grants this year support organizations dedicated to

providing safety-net health and humanitarian services, with 31 percent directed to those advancing education. “During our site visits, we met a wealth of passionate people — many who volunteer their time and talents to improve the well-being of others,” noted Grants Co-Chair Hill. “Whether providing much-needed medical, dental, or mental health services, or addressing needs for supplemental food or winter heat, nonprofit organizations receiving CWO funds are working hard to resolve and fill the voids of the under-privileged in our community.” “By working together, our Outreach has been impactful,” shared Executive Director Margaret Eichman, “proving a simple grassroots effort can meaningfully plant the seeds of charity, nurture compassion, and do its part to cultivate and strengthen the local community.”by Deena Bouknight / photo by Susan Renfro

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Help More in 2024!

Cashiers Cares is built upon compassion and clarity of vision. To learn more, visit cashierscares.org.

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ll charity is good charity. But sometimes there is great satisfaction in contributing to the smaller, local organizations which reach our southern Jackson County folks most effectively. This was the concept-at-heart when three churches founded Cashiers Cares 15 years ago. The objective: help community. While most residents in our locale are well-off, there are plenty who live in poverty and are often overlooked and underserved. In the past decade-anda-half, Cashiers Cares, a 501(c)(3) agency of aid, has grown by leaps-and-bounds …and so have its grateful recipients. Pam Kerr, Cashiers Cares Board Chairperson, was awarded her position when she volunteered to help with the upcoming Annual Campaign. She says, “The few volunteers present instantly appointed me leader – then promptly ran out the door!” She’s been chairwoman ever since. Whatever she’s

doing, she’s doing it well. In the past 10 years, the board has increased from four to five members to 15. Board members are neighbors of those whom they assist, and that makes their dedication deeply special. One of CC’s newer enterprises is an annual Golf Tourney at Trillium Club and Links. The 2nd Annual was in September with nearly 100 golfers participating. 2023 doubled the amount raised last year. Trillium Families is now CC’s most enthusiastic partner … the largest contributor of the 10 local charities. Speaking of money, last year Cashiers Cares raised $97,000.00, all said. Anyone who wants to donate or help (CC always needs more help, more ideas, more money), contact Pam Kerr at Pbk354@ gmail.com, or cashierscares.org. Watch the site for info about the upcoming Annual Fall campaign. Raising money and raising awareness of local needs/services go hand-in-hand. This Thanksgiving, raise something yourself

– a toast to all the volunteers of Cashiers Cares. Then toast once more to all the home-grown, hard-working organizations which benefit from CC’s generosity and diligence: AWAKE: child abuse advocates and legal assistance; Cashiers Valley Preschool; Hampton School; Community Care Clinic; Fishes & Loaves Food Pantry; Four Seasons (home, palliative, Hospice & grief care); Pisgah Legal Services (legal protection for the poor); SAFE: (respect & shelter for domestic violence victims); United Christian Ministries (care for Glenville food and utilities); and the Literacy Council. Pam closes with, “Cashiers Cares workers and board members are 100 percent volunteers. There have been no paid positions in its 15 years’ existence. Please donate to help the organization continue to expand its assistance in aiding our neighbors.” by Donna Rhodes

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Extending Gratitude

While taking just a moment to celebrate its successes and generous patrons, The Literacy & Learning Center casts its gaze toward a bright, busy future.

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he successes of The Literacy & Learning Center come in the form of a growing understanding, new skills, and confidence witnessed in the eyes of a student eager to achieve. The rewards take the shape of having helped someone pass a test, move on to the next grade, learn a new language, attain a better job, or become a healthy and happy contributing member of the community. It’s all about what happens when it clicks. When a student, child, or adult comprehends a lesson they have been struggling to understand, thanks to a volunteer tutor’s patient and supportive efforts, or receives a new book each month, thanks to a generous benefactor, the mission moves off the page and into the world we share. TL&LC extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who helps make this happen. All

programs are entirely free to the students thanks to individual donors, event participants, and granting organizations that together fund one hundred percent of these offerings for the community. And, of course, there would also be no programs were it not for the unsparing trust of the students and their families.

…new skills, and confidence witnessed in the eyes of a student eager to achieve.

With an eye to the coming year, this support will also make possible several goals. The most prominent of which is starting the previously announced pre-K program for four- to five-year-olds. As well as extending services to some of the youngest future students, TL&LC plans

to offer more opportunities to adults. A series of preparatory sessions for high school equivalency tests and parenting classes are currently being designed. The Literacy & Learning Center wishes peace and gratitude to all, especially during this giving season. by Bonnie Potts, The Literacy & Learning Center

Scan to learn more.

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Shopping with Heart Shop with a Cop is a profound oppor tunity to brighten the Christmas of local children in need. If you’d like to help, mail donations to P. O. Box 2785, Highlands, N.C. 28741, or drop the check off at the Highlands Police Depar tment.

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t’s hard to believe it is already November and time to be thinking about the holidays. And one of the most endearing aspects of the Christmas season is how much people are willing to do and to give. Shop With a Cop is a yearly event to help Macon County children who would otherwise experience little or no Christmas gifts. The children recommended for this program are identified by teachers, churches, police, family, and neighbors. Each child receives a $100 gift card. The children are encouraged to purchase items for themselves as well as something for someone else to give as a Christmas gift. Highlands Police Chief Andrea Holland shared her most memorable moments of participating in SWAC over the past several years. “As many people know, now-retired Macon County Sheriff Robert Holland began this program approximately

25 years ago. What started with three children has grown exponentially. Shop With a Cop allows many members of public service an opportunity to enjoy Christmas shopping with Macon County children. Our shopping experience allows us to unwind briefly and enable children to see a different side of all law enforcement entities and emergency responder personnel; in the past, these children may have only experienced emergency services during a traumatic situation.” She added, “Shop With a Cop has allowed me to gain irreplaceable wonderful memories. For instance, one child did not want to purchase any gift for himself; instead, he used his gift card to purchase gifts for his entire family. One child wanted a blanket for his mother because their house wasn’t very warm. One child wanted to purchase a toy he had asked his mother for because then she could take that money and spend more on his brother and sister. While

these stories may tug at your hearts, they are not meant to diminish a family’s circumstances or financial capabilities; they reflect what your donations can accomplish.” Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” SWAC provides just that opportunity. Anyone interested in donating to help Macon County children, who would have little or no Christmas, can mail donations to P. O. Box 2785, Highlands, N.C. 28741, or drop the check off at the Highlands Police Department. Make the check out to Shop With a Cop or SWAC. Your donation is tax-deductible. by Caroline Cook

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New Leadership

Thomas Taulbee and Susan Gregory

As the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce approaches the busy holiday season of a very busy year, Thomas Taulbee and Susan Gregory take the wheel for an equally successful 2024.

s the leaves change color, ushering in fresh autumn air and marking the start of the fall season, the Chamber starts a new season, too, with the recent hire of Thomas Taulbee as the Cashiers Area Chamber’s new Executive Director and Susan Gregory as the Visitor Center Manager. Thomas brings over 20+ years of Chamber experience in his new role as Executive Director. Beginning with his involvement with Chamber South for the Greater South Miami-Dade area and then as a board member of the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce before his hire as the Membership and Community Relations Director in 2020 to his eventual hire as Executive Director last month. “I do not take for granted how the

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Cashiers area is such a unique and special place,” he says. “It’s been my home for the past 10 years. I look forward to continuing my relationship with the Chamber, which has given me an excellent opportunity to serve our community. I have a strong personal philosophy to create a sense of community, which is my driving force.” Susan is a lifelong member of the Glenville community, where her family has owned a home near the lake since 1957. She participated in the Leadership Cashiers Class of 2022 and recently served on the Chamber Board as the Leadership Cashiers liaison. In 2020, Susan relocated to the area to enjoy a mountain lifestyle, leaving behind her Elder Law firm of 14 years on the west coast of Florida.

“These mountains and the CashiersGlenville area have always been home to me. I am excited and grateful for the opportunity to support the community through the Chamber. I look forward to working with Thomas, our members, and community partners.” With the new Chamber team in place, 2024 will be an exciting time for our membership and the community. They are working over the next several months to create new initiatives for the Chamber membership to network with one another and highlight the many tremendous attributes the Cashiers area offers. Thomas and Susan look forward to seeing you at the Chamber office. by Luke Osteen

photo by Mary Gillan

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Leadership Highlands Back row, left to right: Daryl Griswold, Carol Taylor, Chris Duffy, Margaret Shutze. Front row, left to right: Tim Dearth, Jerry Wilson, James Spencer, Keith Gilbert, Josh Bryson, Johanna Fein, Michelle Davis, Jane Jerry, and William Beck.

Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC graduates another batch of community leaders to help shape the Plateau’s future.

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eadership Highlands, a Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC community engagement program, announces the graduates of the 2023 class: William Beck, Josh Bryson, Michelle Davis, Tim Dearth, Chris Duffy, Johanna Fein, Keith Gilbert, Daryl Griswold, Jane Jerry, James Spencer, Margaret Shutze, Carol Taylor, and Jerry Wilson. The educational program is aimed at emerging and existing leaders in the Highlands community, offering an opportunity to enhance civic knowledge, leadership skills and network. Those selected committed to and engaged in an eight-month curriculum, from March through October, that included a retreat, day-long classes each month, a variety of enrichment workshops and projects, and a graduation ceremony. “We are so proud of our Leadership Highlands 2023 graduates,” says Kaye McHan, executive director of Highlands

Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC. “We believe their various business and nonprofit organizations will benefit from the knowledge and training they have gained through the program.” Each year Leadership Highlands brings together local experts and class members to engage and discuss topics such as Highlands’ history and cultural resources, economic development, government and public safety, health and human resources, education, arts, and outdoor recreation. Personal leadership skills are developed through principle- based decisionmaking and team-building exercises. Selection criteria includes civic involvement, leadership potential, diversity of perspective and commitment to the program and the Highlands community. A committee comprised of Highlands Chamber of Commerce staff, members of the Board of Directors and previous participants selects each class.

“The Leadership Highlands program exceeded my expectations,” said graduate Josh Bryson. “Highlands is such a special and unique community in so many ways and this program provided me with an exceptional opportunity to forge connections, acquire knowledge, and cultivate a diverse set of skills. Without a doubt, I recommend this program to anyone seeking personal and professional growth.” Applications for the 2024 Leadership Highlands program will be available online Monday, October 30. For more information about Leadership Highlands or the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC call (828) 526-5841 or visit highlandschamber.org. by Johanna Fein, Highlands Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Highlands, NC

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Live well. Run free.

A private, low-density amenitized community, located on the prestigious 107 South corridor just five minutes from the center of Cashiers, NC. Silver Run Reserve is paradise of natural beauty offering a variety of amenities for indoor and outdoor fun and wellness, and a range of large estate homesites and built cottages. Call for more details and a tour of this beautiful community. WELCOME HOME. 828.342.3194

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RENDERING

AVAIL ABLE HOMESITES ME-12 4. 24 ACRES MLS 101128 $1,600,000

ME-3 2.50 ACRES MLS 101468 $895,000

RT-6 2.42 ACRES MLS 101741 $675,000

RENDERING

LIZ HARRIS, GUILD ELITE™ Exclusive Listing Broker 828.342.3194 | liz@cashiers.com SilverRunReserve.com 193 N OV EM B ER 2023 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

BETH TOWNSEND

LIZ HARRIS

Co-Owner / Broker

ANN MCKEE AUSTIN

Co-Owner / Broker

OUR TEAM — OF —

COLEEN GOTTLOEB

EXPERIENCED BROKERS

JOHN BARROW

Broker / Rental Coordinator

TIM HEATLEY Broker

MAGGIE ELMER Broker

KARALINE CANTLER

Broker / Administrator

619 HWY 107 S 194 N OV EM B ER 2023 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

SANDY BARROW Broker

Broker-In-Charge

SUSAN HEATLEY Broker

CLAY CANTLER

Broker / Licensed Assistant

TK HEATLEY Broker

JESSICA HOHEISEL

Broker / Licensed Assistant

| CASHIERS, NC 28717 | 828.743.3411

LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC MINNIE COLE HOUSE

Elevated living CA S H I E R S , N O R T H CA R O L I N A

For nearly half a century, McKee Properties has helped define the Cashiers-Highlands Plateau, setting the standard for premier real estate and

PHOTO BY LIZ HARRIS AT SILVER RUN RESERVE

the area’s luxury mountain lifestyle.

mckeeproperties.com

828.743.3411

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Cashiers

OFFERED FOR $6,900,000

39.18 ACRES — A rare opportunity to acquire this premier Cashiers, NC acreage located on the prestigious Highway 107 South corridor, just three minutes from town! Much of the land is nearly level with a creek and stream running through it, and an elevated area offering great homesites with gentle topography and views of Chimneytop Mountain, Rock Mountain, Big Sheepcliff, and others. This property would make a beautiful private estate just minutes from the center of

Cashiers and close to Wade Hampton, High Hampton, and Chattooga Club. Enjoy the excitement of your favorite club and the privacy of your own quiet estate just a couple minutes away. This land also offers excellent commercial, residential or mixed-use development potential with its great location, frontage on Highway 107 South, gentle topography, and views. MLS 101855

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619 HW Y 107 S 8 2 8 . 7 4 3 . 3 411

Silver Run Reserve 5 BR / 5.5 BA — This gorgeous 8.5 acre estate is located in the beautiful Silver Run Reserve, just five minutes from Cashiers. It features a brand new 5 bedroom home scheduled for completion in March of 2024. The fantastic home is designed by renowned architect TS Adams and constructed by one of Cashiers’ finest builders, Harris Custom Homes. The gentle lot boasts beautiful views of Whiteside Mountain that sweep through the trees and beyond into the Meadows of Silver Run

OFFERED FOR $6,500,000 Reserve. Silver Run Creek flows just below the house providing excellent fishing, natural plunge pools, and wading areas for children. This home is located an easy walking distance to all of Silver Run Reserve’s wonderful amenities, and is a convenient location within the community yet tucked back in the acreage for ultimate privacy. This great estate has it all and is a must-see! Please reach out to Liz to schedule a tour, or for a detailed information booklet on floor plans and finishes. MLS 101991

LIZ HARRIS, GUILD ELITE™ C 828.342.3194

| LIZ@CASHIERS.COM 197 N OV EM B ER 2023 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

Chattooga Club

OFFERED FOR $4,400,000

5 BR / 5 BA / 2HBA — This classic mountain beauty is located in the Chattooga Club just five minutes from Cashiers. It offers refined mountain charm and beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces to enjoy with family and friends. The great room features floor to ceiling stone fireplace and together with the dining room and kitchen these rooms open up to a large outdoor covered porch with vaulted ceilings stone fireplace and an adjoining uncovered porch. The large primary suite is located on the main level and four additional spacious suites are located on the

upper and lower levels. A cozy sitting area upstairs is a lovely place for guests to lounge, and the large family room on the lower level complete with bar/kitchenette is perfect for game day and entertaining. A lower deck off the family room adds ample outdoor area and the beautiful gentle topography and landscaping surrounding the home offer areas to explore, garden and play. A pretty view of Whiteside graced this home originally and could be opened back up to its original state with some trimming and the appropriate HOA approval. MLS 102949

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Cedar Hill 4 BR / 4.5 BA — Situated within the gated community of Cedar Hill, this home offers a nice blend of serenity and convenience, just minutes from town. The home boasts an elevation of over 4,000’ and a panoramic 180-degree mountain vista, complete with stunning sunsets. As you enter the home, your gaze is immediately drawn to the majestic mountain backdrop. The great room welcomes you with cathedral ceilings, stone fireplace, handsome beam work, and French doors that seamlessly connect to the upper-level stone terrace. Adjacent to the

Cedar Hill 4 BR / 4.5 BA — This beautiful brand new home in Cedar Hill is tucked in on a high elevation ridge offering panoramic views to the east, south and southwest. Its wonderful location is just four minutes from Cashiers, and in close proximity to many golf and country clubs on the plateau. The home features designer selections and generous spaces throughout. The large great room welcomes you with plenty of

OFFERED FOR $3,500,000 great room, the chef’s kitchen and dining area effortlessly combine modern design with functionality, making it an ideal space for both everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen also opens to a spacious screened porch with its own stone fireplace. MLS 103036

OFFERED FOR $2,999,000 natural light streaming through the large window wall, soaring ceilings with beam accents, a floor to ceiling stone fireplace, oak floors and an elegantly curved oak staircase leading to the upper level. Three large guest suites are located upstairs along with a loft/family room and a wet bar. MLS 103005

LIZ HARRIS, GUILD ELITE™ C 828.342.3194

| LIZ@CASHIERS.COM 199 N OV EM B ER 2023 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

High Hampton 5 BR / 5.5 BA — The Pines: This 1950s rancher has undergone an extensive HGTV-like renovation over the past several years! Fresh, open, light and roomy, the all on one level home is perfect for large families or golf foursomes, each “player” having their own space. A connected two-car garage was recently converted into the primary en suite bedroom with French doors to its own patio. The home has beautiful wood floors, vintage metal windows (before it was “a thing”), painted wood and brick interior walls, and tile floors in the bathrooms. There are two interior fireplaces: one in the den-entry room and one in the family room, plus

OFFERED FOR $4,800,000 a new outdoor fireplace on the raised stone terrace in the private back yard. A newly constructed two-car garage and covered walkway has been added in the paved parking area. The almost 4 acre rolling expansive lawn is very unique to this area—this is an excellent property for a guest house, gardening, badminton, play areas for family and pets, there is ample room for them all! Easy in and out driveway, this is a part of High Hampton (and its history!), but only a stone’s throw to Wade Hampton, Chattooga Club, and close to the center of Cashiers, too. Offered furnished. MLS 102606

BETH TOWNSEND, GUILD ELITE™ C 828.421.6193

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| BETH@CASHIERS.COM

Wade Hampton Golf Club 4 BR / 4.5 BA — Located within the prestigious Wade Hampton Golf Club, this home boasts long range mountain views, golf course views and is a 5-minute drive to the center of Cashiers. The home features a total of 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths between the main house and carriage house, and 2 bonus rooms within the main house. The main house has a flowing floor plan from the vaulted great room with a stone fireplace to the cozy dining room and kitchen featuring a second fireplace. A large primary suite with two walk-in closets and private porch is located on the main level. Upstairs, you will find a guest en-suite and two bonus

OFFERED FOR $2,400,000

rooms. A large, covered porch off the great room with a continuing side porch allow you to enjoy the private setting of this home and take in the views of your mountain getaway! The carriage house located above the connected two-car carport features two additional guest en-suites and small wet bar. MLS 102267

LIZ HARRIS, GUILD ELITE™ C 828.342.3194

| LIZ@CASHIERS.COM 201 N OV EM B ER 2023 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

Continental Cliffs 5 BR / 6 BA — What a view! Rock Mountain, Chimney Top, Terrapin, and Whiteside are four of the many mountains seen from this large, lovely property! Upon entering the home with its new double-doors with glass panes, step into a lovely foyer, then a sizable great room with a dining area seating at least 10, floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, and a wall of windows facing the view. To the left is a large kitchen and keeping room with plenty of comfortable seating. Just off the kitchen is the first of two laundry rooms and a charming den/library. Also on

OFFERED FOR $2,995,000 the first floor is the lovely primary bedroom with fireplace and an en suite bath with the gorgeous mountain view and doors out to the deck and covered porch. In addition, there is a guest bedroom on the main floor with en suite bath. Downstairs is a spacious den with wood-burning fireplace and three bedrooms. The home is located in the charming and welcoming neighborhood of Continental Cliffs and is a short distance to the Crossroads of Cashiers. MLS 102229

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Cullasaja Club 4 BR / 5.5 BA — You are in for a treat! This beautiful mountain home located within the gated community of Cullasaja Club and only a short drive from the gatehouse boasts 4 bedrooms and 5 and a half baths. The primary bedroom on the main level has his and her baths, separate closets, and a laundry room nearby with new washer and dryer. Nearby is a lovely, spacious office with lots of light from out-of-doors. Also on the main floor is a handsome library with ample book shelves and large TV. The kitchen boasts a gas range, many built-ins, a spacious

OFFERED FOR $2,500,000 pantry, and a lovely breakfast room with sun-lit windows and doors out onto the deck. The home has a 2-car garage, readily accessible from the main floor. Upstairs is one bedroom with an ensuite bath, and downstairs is a large, beautiful area with a spacious den and fireplace, two bedrooms and two baths. There is access to a single garage for the golf-cart. Walking outside from this area takes you right to the golf course! Furniture included. MLS 101675

SANDY BARROW | C 478.737.9664 JOHN BARROW | C 828.506.9356 203 N OV EM B ER 2023 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

Laurel Knob Road 3 BR / 2.5 BA — Charming farmhouse featuring all one-level living and over 7 acres ready to be made into a your own quaint farm estate or unrestricted to other possibilities! Less than 10 minutes from Cashiers and next door to Mountaintop Golf Club, the property features a beautiful rock face, a rolling meadow, and wooded areas. The split floor

OFFERED FOR $1,895,000 plan features an oversized master suite on one side of the home and two more bedrooms and a bathroom on the other. The center of the home is found in a large kitchen, living room featuring a rock fireplace, a cozy dining room, an office and an expansive deck off the back allowing to take in views of the large rock face on the property. MLS 102548

Stillmont

OFFERED FOR $1,690,000

4 BR / 4 BA — A beautifully remodeled cottage located in the desirable Stillmont neighborhood. The main house offers two bedrooms, two baths, an additional sitting/office area, a large screened porch and a one-car garage. The darling guest house offers two spacious guest en-suites and a kitchenette. The almost 2 acres features nearly level

topography, a pretty view of Whiteside Mountain, grassy yards surrounding the home, and beautiful perennials. Stillmont is conveniently located just 5 minutes from Cashiers between Highlands and Cashiers, and close to Mountaintop Golf and Lake Club, Old Edwards Club, and Wildcat Cliffs Country Club. MLS 102444

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619 HW Y 107 S 8 2 8 . 7 4 3 . 3 411

The Oaks

OFFERED FOR $995,000

3 BR / 2 BA — Hidden in the charming neighborhood of The Oaks, the location of this home provides quick access to the clubs of Glen Cove, Old Edwards, and Mountaintop Golf and Lake Club and is only 10 minutes from Cashiers or 15 minutes to Highlands. Enjoy breathtaking, long-range mountain views including an expansive view of

Whiteside Forest

$760,000

20.52 ACRES — This lot features gorgeous, year-round views of

Whiteside Mountain and the surrounding mountains as well as stream frontage, two waterfalls, caves, and protected by National Forest along two of its borders. Several knolls along the ridge line within the property would provide for beautiful build sites. It is conveniently located off Whiteside Cove Road in Whiteside Forest. MLS 102314

Whiteside Mountain from the home. The cottage features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and vaulted ceilings with a large stone fireplace in the living room. MLS 102549

Wade Hampton

$250,000

0.66 ACRES — This lot is beautiful, mostly flat, providing for a beautiful home site, gently rolling with a golf course view of the fifteenth fairway in Wade Hampton Golf Club. With its golf frontage and location off the quiet street of Fox Fire, this lot is a must see! Wade Hampton Golf Club is a McKee Development Neighborhood and Tom Fazio Designed Golf Course. MLS 102570

JUST REDUCED

LIZ HARRIS, GUILD ELITE™ C 828.342.3194

| LIZ@CASHIERS.COM 205 N OV EM B ER 2023 | T H EL AU R EL M AG A ZI N E .CO M

High Hampton

$1,399,000

1.14 ACRES — On the “original” Clubhouse side of the neighborhood in the newly developed “Uplands” section of High Hampton, this high elevation, almost pancake flat lot offers easy ingress and egress. Beautiful hardwood trees and ferns abound. There is currently a winter view and an opportunity for upgraded views with minor (with ARC approval) trimming. MLS 102734

Cashiers

$750,000

2.86 ACRES — Beautifully vegetated large lot has frontage on the Chattooga Club common area lake trail and enjoys the splashing sounds of the waterfall below. Its building site is a nice elevated knoll with positive drainage, offers potential views with clearing and is convenient to the clubhouse and the main gated entry to the neighborhood. MLS 102240

$699,000

3 BR / 1 BA — Oozing with the charm and character of Old High

Hampton, the Haymaker Cottage is a simple pine cottage. It is located on an incredibly gentle lot on the historic Highway 107 South corridor adjoining the well known Tolbert acreage and another historic High Hampton Cottage, “Tall Pines.” This property has a private well, freestanding brick fireplace, and a small trail to the creek. MLS 102981

UNDER CONTRACT

Chattooga Club

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WHAT CLIENTS ARE SAYING... “Beth’s local knowledge and expertise were extremely helpful. She is thorough, detail oriented, very creative and flexible. Above all else she is a wonderful person who I would highly recommend to any of my friends.” – Jenny B.

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Sotheby’s International Realty Southern Way Spoiled Rotten Stork’s Wrap, Pack & Ship The Summer House by Reeves Tarah’s Beauty Bar Terry Warren Fine Art TJ Bailey’s for Men Toccoa Falls Family Dental The Exchange Trail Mix The Ugly Dog Pub - Highlands Vic’s for Men Victoria’s Closet Victoria’s Sportswear The Village Green Village Hound The Vineyard at High Holly Vivianne Metzger Antiques The Watershed Shoppe Wayah Insurance Group Welcome Home WHLC FM 104.5 Willow Valley Wit’s End Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro Woofgang Bakery & Grooming Zach Claxton Zoller Hardware The Zookeeper Bistro

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