April 2024: The Laurel Magazine

L aURe L

Cover Artist, Hannah More Hyde

VOLUME TWENTY-TWO, ISSUE THREE

Publisher’s Note

Welcome to a stuffed April 2024 Issue of The Laurel!

You can be sure that it caused our printer a bit of heartburn, because binding a magazine this size, with this quality of paper, requires more than the usual care and finesse.

For us, we’re ecstatic – all of these pages represent lives and events and surprising activities that are breathing warmth and brilliant life back into the Plateau.

When you see us (and Marlene and Deena and Mary Jane and Donna and Michelle and Luke) out and about, please tell us about your life in this most magical month! You’re an integral part of this story that we love telling!

With appreciation, 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

JANET CUMMINGS Managing Partner janet@thelaurelmagazine.com

MICHELLE MUNGER Art Director mungerclan5@aol.com

LUKE OSTEEN Editor / Writer luke@thelaurelmagazine.com

MARLENE OSTEEN Writer marlene.osteen@gmail.com

DEENA BOUKNIGHT Writer dknight865@gmail.com

MARJORIE N. DEAL Managing Partner marjorie@thelaurelmagazine.com

SARAH FIELDING Account Manager sarah@thelaurelmagazine.com

DONNA RHODES Writer dmrhodes847@gmail.com

MARY JANE MCCALL Writer mjmccall777@gmail.com

THOMAS CUMMINGS Distribution Manager jothcu@yahoo.com

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

Copyright © 2024 by The Mountain Laurel, LLC. All rights reserved. Laurel Magazine is published eleven times per year. Reproduction without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publishers and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication subject to Laurel Magazine’s right to edit. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, photographs and drawings. Every effort has been made to assure that all information presented in this issue is accurate, and neither Laurel Magazine nor any of its staff is responsible for advertising errors, omissions, or information that has been misrepresented in or to the magazine. Any substantial errors that are the fault of the magazine will be subject to a reduction or reimbursement of the amounts paid by the advertiser, but in no case will any claim arising from such error exceed the amount paid for the advertisement by the advertiser.

WHAT TO DO

Pages 14-61

photo by Susan Renfro

What on Earth?

Total eclipse from Western North Carolina, 2017

This month features the shadow dance between the Sun and the Moon.

Big doings this month. Beginning with a solar eclipse!

On April 8, the moon will pass between the Earth and Sun resulting in a solar eclipse across North America. The “path of totality” of the Moon’s umbra shadow is narrow, beginning in Texas and proceeding diagonally up to Arkansas, Tennessee, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and Maine. This path is west of us in Western North Carolina but close enough that we should have about an 80 percent eclipse. Worth the gander. Expect a crescent sun.

The eclipse here will be a two-hour event starting around 2:00 P.M., the four-minute peak coming around 3:00 P.M. Wear protective glasses, inexpensive eclipse lenses or solar viewers. Looking at the sun without protection could damage your retina. An early psychologist ruined his vision staring at the sun to study visual afterimages. The safest place to see the eclipse

might be at one of the live cams online.

Imagine the stir that has come historically from solar eclipses: tales and superstitions, mostly ill omens. The oldest, dating back to the Egyptians, is that an eclipse portends the death of the king. The Egyptians were fairly accurate in predicting eclipses and would enthrone a temporary king to incur that fate. King Henry l did in fact die after a solar eclipse. Kepler and Halley worked out the planetary science of eclipses. This astronomical event is not all that is going on this month. There’s April foolery on the 1st. Most “fools” are victims of trust and innocence – precious and dear. April 1 also hosts the iHeartRadio Music Awards and that’s no joke but a leading edge of popular music.

Wednesday the 3rd is National Walking Day. We have great

Highlands total eclipse solar viewers, 2017

walking and hiking trails around us. The 4th is National Burrito Day and the 5th is Deep Dish Pizza Day.

Monday, April 15 is World Art Day and Leonardo da Vinci’s birthday.

This is also tax day. File your tax returns and celebrate by going to an art exhibit. Beauty heals.

April 22 is Earth Day, Mother Earth. Love your Mother.

The 26th is Arbor Day. Hug a tree, then plant one.

April ends with music and dance. The 29th is both Duke Ellington Day and International Dance Day. The 30th is International Jazz Day. Sing, dance and Jazz up your life this month.

Happy April from the Laurel magazine.

by William McReynolds

Two Jam-Packed Days

Like the great Bear Shadow looming over Whiteside Cove, Bear Shadow Music Festival is dominating the Plateau’s cultural calendar as it roars back onto the horizon –May 11-12. For information, visit bearshadownc.com.

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend on May 11-12 as the Bear Shadow Music Festival returns to Scaly Mountain’s Winfield Farms for its annual spring celebration.

For the fourth year, fans will come from nearby and far away to touch the music and the musicians, to relish the cool air and beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Over its two jam-packed days, festivalgoers will be treated to a lineup that is arguably the richest and most diverse in the region, featuring an eclectic mix of Blues, Bluegrass, Country, Rock, and Americana acts.

Headliners JJ Grey & Mofro will take the stage on Saturday, followed by the Black Pumas on Sunday. In between, audiences will discover a wealth of rising talent, including Futurebirds, American Aquarium, North Mississippi Allstars, The Record Company, White Denim, and Grace Bowers.

American music journalist and CEO of Jrodconcerts Media, Jamie Rodriguez, praises Bear Shadow Music Festival for

its meticulous attention to detail, top-notch amenities, and exceptional musical talent.

“Bear Shadow has a knack for getting an incredible mix of talent; artists on the rise, current hit makers and icons,” he says, highlighting Grace Bowers, a 17-year-old prodigy from Nashville, as a “once in a generation kind of talent,” and American Aquarium for their compelling blend of rock ‘n roll and profound songwriting.

Rodriguez also applauds headliner Black Pumas for their breathtaking arrival on the national music scene, “one of the most breathtaking debut albums in recent years.”

And beyond the talent, what sets Bear Shadow apart from other festivals is its commitment to providing ample stage time for artists, with 1-hour and 15-minute sets, allowing performers to truly connect with their audience.

But the festival isn’t just about who’s headlining; it’s a celebration of music, camaraderie, and the locale. Beyond the stage lights, there’s plenty of good food and beverages to be

had – top notch local food trucks, restaurants, breweries, and distilleries.

At the SoBear Tent, non-alcoholic beverages are offered –Sierra Nevada, mocktails, kombuchas and coffee company. And, unlike other festivals, beverages are included in your ticket price. You can work off your indulgence roaming the expanse of Winfield Farm’s festival ground and browse retailers – offering everything from artisan wares to mountain wear.

Beyond music and delicious food and drinks, the money spent on your tickets goes toward a list of good causes.

Bear Shadow has a history of giving back to the community. Between 2021 and 2023, Bear Shadow has donated $50,000 to local organizations including the HighlandsCashiers Land Trust, Highlands Biological Foundation, The Resource Institute and the Sky Valley-Scaly Mountain Fire & Rescue. In 2024, both the festival and the owners of Winfield Farm will again donate to Sky Valley-Scaly Mountain Fire & Rescue.

by Marlene Osteen

Beloved Fishing Contest

The Three Rivers Fly Fishing Festival, set for May 2-4, offers plenty of challenges for both veteran anglers and clever novices of all ages. For more information, to register a team, or to become a sponsor, visit 3riverflyfish.com.

When David Wilkes and Steve Perry launched the Three Rivers Fly Fishing Festival in 2013, they aimed to create a fun fishing event that would rally locals around a noble cause.

Their goal was to raise funds for the Town of Highlands Scholarship Fund.

What no one expected was that over the years the event would raise over $150,000.

Today the festival has become one of the most beloved fishing contests in the region, bringing together anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to share their passion for fly fishing amidst the beauty and serenity of the mountains and its waterways teeming with rainbow, brook, and rainbow trout.

Taking place over the weekend of May 2-4 when the rivers are at their prime, this one-of-a-kind, family-friendly festival offers a variety of opportunities to up your fly-fishing game. Beginner or expert, you’ll be able to learn everything you want about casting techniques, fly tying, and fish species.

Chris Wilkes, Pat Gleeson, Drew Townes, and Bryan Lewis, the festival’s organizers emphasize that, “The goal is to have fun, it’s a community event and we have a place for everybody.” Wilkes, the owner of the Highlands Hiker, a well-known local outfitter for fishermen, is one of the festival’s sponsors. Pat Gleeson, an associate at Christie’s International Real Estate, sponsors the Saturday night gala, and Bryan Lewis’s Highlands Smokehouse hosts the Friday party. Other supporters include Old Edwards Inn and Spa, State Farm Insurance, and Coca-Cola.

Trophies, fly rods, fly reels, and more will be awarded to the top performing teams. Everyone leaves with something, and you shouldn’t miss the silent and live auction items worthy of all fly fisher-women (and men).

During the festival, participants test their skills on more than 2000 miles of fishing territory within the contest boundaries, which include some of the most scenic and diverse streams in Western NC. Competing in two-person teams, either guided

or unguided, they must catch at least one fish each from a hatchery supported, a delayed harvest and a native stream (hence the festival’s name.) Fishing is open all day on Friday and Saturday, May 3-4, from sunup to sundown.

The festival kicks off on Thursday night with a cocktail party at Old Edwards Inn where teams receive gift bags with items donated by local vendors, including hats, tshirts, koozies and flies, including a Jack Cabe hopper fly. Contestants check in on Friday and Saturday mornings at the Highland Hiker, declare their destinations and receive a lunch box provided by local restaurant The Secret Garden. On Friday night they gather at the Highlands Smokehouse to share their day’s results. There’s also a free fly-casting clinic at Harris Lake on Saturday from 10:00 A.M. to noon. The highlight of the festival is the Saturday night wrap-up party at a private Highlands’ residence where the Jack Cabe Cup is awarded to the team with the highest total inches caught.

Other prizes are awarded to Ugliest Fish, Best Fish Story, Largest Fish, and Smallest Fish.

by Marlene Osteen

An Entire Month of Glory

Don’t go looking for Earth Day – it’s an entire month of glory.

Two months ago, when we began planning this issue, I was dismayed to realize that big Red Letter Earth Day Celebrations were nowhere to be found on our local calendars.

It seems like those big events just couldn’t survive a global pandemic and the ensuing panic that overtook everything.

But Friend of The Laurel (and Friend of the Earth) Winter Gary, the Highlands Biological Foundation’s executive director, enlightened me in her gentle way by explaining that this precious planet deserved more than a single day of honor. Here on the Plateau, and at various spots around the world, April is Earth Month.

And sure enough, once I looked around me, once I looked at this very magazine taking shape, I saw the profound wisdom of Winter’s revelation.

You need only look through the pages of this issue to understand – there’s William

McReynolds’ perennially-wise Audubon column, a year-round valentine to our feathered neighbors, whose happy presence in our forests and meadows and wetlands is quietly slipping away; and the launch of the 2024 Village Nature Series, which throughout the season spotlights the lives – big, small, and microscopic – that shape our incredibly complex ecosystem; and Deena Bouknight’s Outdoor column with its focus on the achingly beautiful Gorges State Park; or Debby Hall’s wise words about the Mountain Garden Club’s Annual Plant Sale – “We offer plants that can’t be grown elsewhere because of the ideal climate and soil here on the Plateau.”

See how it would be the acme of foolishness to consider that Nature’s Bounty could be roped into a single day?

All of this leads me to our first-ever Laurel Homework Assignment. Or, in the spirit of Lewis Carroll, our first ever Laurel Non-Homework Assignment.

Once you’ve carefully read every page and ad (especially the ads! ) in this issue, I’d like you to turn away from the page or the screen and step out into creation. This can be as simple as going out onto your porch, or as gentle as strolling through the astonishing Village Green Boardwalk or Highlands Botanical Gardens or The Bascom’s Horst Winkler Sculpture Trail, or if you’re feeling frisky, as invigorating as hiking through the hushed emerald cathedrals that surround us.

Open your senses, and your mind, and your heart and I promise you – I promise you! – that you’ll absorb a full measure of the magic and mystery that’s the Plateau’s Earth Day (or Earth Month or Earth Year)!

We’ve all been blessed.

by Luke Osteen

Free Concert Series

The Highlands Chamber of Commerce unveils another season of free weekend concert fun. (Dancing encouraged.)

From May into October, the vibrant tunes of live music fill the air in downtown Highlands every Friday and Saturday night. Shows on both nights are free and take place from 6:00 to 8:30 P.M.

Friday Night Live showcases traditional mountain music and exceptional local talent on Main Street’s Town Square. The Friday night concerts are part of the Blue Ridge Music Trails of North Carolina, an initiative of the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area Partnership and the N.C. Arts Council that works to sustain the rich music traditions of the region.

The Friday Night Live season schedule is as follows:

May 17 – Silly Ridge

May 24 – McClain Family Band

May 31 – Byrds & Crows

June 7 – The Foxfire Boys

June 14 – Spare Parts Bluegrass Band

June 21 – Curtis Blackwell Band

June 28 – Johnny Webb Band

July 5 – Nitrograss

July 12 – Silly Ridge

July 19 – Leadfoot Lily

July 26 – Kettle

August 2 – Ezra & Katie

August 9 – ABC Combo

August 16 – Steady Hand String Band

August 23 – Southern Highhland Band

August 30 – Spare Parts Bluegrass Band

September 6 – Johnny Webb Band

September 13 – Silly Ridge

September 20 – Curtis Blackwell Band

September 27 - Nitrograss

October 4 – Zorki

October 11 – The Foxfire Boys

Saturdays on Pine features a variety of popular, regional bands and musicians at Kelsey- Hutchinson Founders Park.

The Saturdays on Pine season schedule is as follows:

May 18 – Continental Divide

May 25 – Southside Station

June 1 – High 5

June 8 – Bill Mattocks

June 15 – Back Porch Orchestra

June 22 – The HC Oakes Band

July 6 – Blaze the City

July 13 – Dive Bar Divas

July 20 – Lazrluvr

July 27 - The Breakfast Club

August 3 – The Holiday Band

August 10 – Will Thompson Band

August 31 – Full Circle

September 7 – Steel Toe Stiletto

September 14 – High 5

September 21 – The Boomers

September 28 – Kayla McKinney

October 5 – Thirsty Horses

October 12 – Nu Blue

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

“Highlands thrives on community gatherings, live music, and the beauty of nature,” says Kaye McHan, the organization’s executive director. “Grab your lawn chair or blanket, pack a picnic basket, and join us!”

There will not be a Chamber presented concert on June 29, August 17 and August 24 due to other events being held at Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park. For more information about the Outdoor Concert Series or other events visit highlandschamber.org or call (828) 526-2112.

by Luke Osteen

Orchard Sessions Return

Mike Kinnebrew brings a lifetime of heart and soul to his April 18 Orchard Session at The Farm at Old Edwards. For tickets, visit oldedwardshospitality.com/orchardsessions.

Mike Kinnebrew’s indieinflected take on folk and Americana sound has earned him the hearts of Highlanders and visitors since he first took the stage at Old Edwards nearly a decade ago. His polished sound and expressive voice will resonate once again amidst the boughs of fruit trees at the Orchard Sessions at The Farm at Old Edwards on Thursday, April 18.

Born in the South to a Baptist preacher father and a mother who was a nurse –Kinnebrew soaked up music from the tunes his father played on the radio in the family station wagon – the Beatles, the Monkees, and Elvis.

But he also respected songwriters that seemed to be saying something meaningful, and he fell in love with the sounds of James Taylor, and Jackson Browne. At age 14 the family moved to Atlanta and Kinnebrew turned his attention to the guitar.

Amassing a repertoire of popular

covers, he cut his teeth playing in bars and restaurants throughout high school before trying his hand at songwriting.

From the start, he was mesmerized by the way a song could, “reach out and grab you by the heart.” It has been said that one of the hallmarks of good songwriting is that anybody can put themselves into the song and take something from it.

To Kinnebrew, who considers that one of his roles as a musician is a that of storyteller, the premise feels correct. “I talk, write and play to feel less alone. When I am singing and feel a connection with the audience it hopefully makes us all fell less alone.”

And it reaffirms what he’s been doing right — his love for the language burns through each of his songs.

By now with two previous albums and a new full-length album release slated for spring 2024, in collaboration with Nashville Grammy winners Charlie Lowell and Matt Odmark, Kinnebrew

has amassed enough fans to have performed at Scotland’s 2023 Fringe Festival and the 30A Songwriter’s Festival.

Sessions’ audience can expect a preview of his new album which he describes as introspective and honest with, “bright and shiny songs about family and life, along with some darker more searching tunes.” As he says, “That’s life to me, it’s good and bad, beautiful and tragic.”

Joining him on the stage will be his wife, Lindsey and recent addition to his band, Ramsey Wynn who dazzles on the electric slide guitar.

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

by Marlene Osteen

Mike Kinnebrew

Calling All Pups

Local pooches and their people are invited to join the 3rd Annual Highlands Dog Show, 1:00 P.M. Saturday, May 11, at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park in Highlands.

When Shakespeare had Hamlet portend that “every dog has its day,” who would have guessed that he was casting his gaze forward over 400 years, to Highlands on May 11?

For evidence, witness the Plateau gearing up for the much-anticipated 3rd Annual Highlands Dog Show, set to take place on

Saturday, May 11, from 1:00 to 3:00 P.M. at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park.

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

The Highlands Dog Show invites all pups and their owners to join in the festivities, promising a delightful afternoon filled with fun, laughter, and canine camaraderie. Admission to the event is free, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for everyone in the community.

The event showcases the dogs in five critical categories: Best Behaved: Well-mannered canines will showcase their obedience and good behavior; Happiest Dog: Judges will look for the pup with the most infectious and joyful spirit; Best Trick: Get ready to be amazed as talented pups demonstrate their impressive tricks; Looks Like Owner: A playful competition where judges will determine the best resemblance between dogs and their owners; Best In Show: The ultimate title, awarded to the dog that captures the hearts of both judges and spectators.

This event is expected to be a bark-tastic celebration of our furry companions and a perfect lead-in to the Mother’s Day weekend…

“The event is free and open to all members of the community,” says Werre. “Bring your friends, family, and, of course, your beloved four-legged companions for a day of tail-wagging excitement. Whether you’re a participant or a spectator, come and be part of this heartwarming celebration of the bond between humans and their canine companions.”

Landmark Realty Group stands as a premier real estate agency deeply committed to serving the community with integrity and expertise. With five dog-friendly offices strategically located on the Plateau, they provide accessible and welcoming spaces for both property seekers and their beloved canine companions. As ardent supporters of the Highlands Dog Show, Landmark Realty Group takes pride in their dedication to fostering vibrant and inclusive events that unite people in the community.

The Park on Main Hotel is a premier pet-friendly hotel in Highlands, providing luxury accommodations for both two-legged and four-legged guests. Their sponsorship of the Highlands Dog Show reflects their passion for fostering a pet-friendly community and celebrating the bond between pets and their owners.

by Luke Osteen

In Awe of Nature

The 2024 Village Nature Series is a deep dive into the natural heritage that surrounds everyone on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.

The Village Green and the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust have unveiled their 2024 Village Nature Series, an educational program designed to highlight the rich natural heritage of our community.

Residents and visitors alike are invited to join us at The Village Green on select Tuesdays from April through September to learn more about the unique wildlife, habitats, conservation, and local cultural heritage from expert speakers in their fields.

Lectures will be held monthly, providing attendees with unique insights into the natural wonders that surround us from the intricate ecosystem of the HighlandsCashiers Plateau to the diverse flora and fauna in our region. The programs are held from 5:30 to 6:30 P.M. rain or shine, and are completely free of charge, offering everyone the opportunity to learn about what makes our area so special. Each topic that is chosen reflects

the area’s unique natural biodiversity as well as offer topics that community members relate to, learn from, and can perhaps incorporate into their lives.

Mark your calendars for the following dates for the upcoming Village Nature Series events! This series is proudly sponsored by Cedar Creek Club and co-hosted by Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust and The Village Green! Lectures will be held at 160 Frank Allen Road in Cashiers.

April 30 – Vermicompost, the Basics and Benefits presented by Mary Ann Smith

May 28 – Hope for The Hemlocks presented by Olivia Hall and Thom Green of the Hemlock Restoration Initiative

June 25 – Mushrooms 101: A Sneak Peak Into the Frontier of the Future presented by Lizza Bixby of Mushroom Mountain

July 30 – Literature and Ecology with John Lane, Emeritus Professor at Wofford College

August 20 – George Masa’s Wild Vision presented by Brent Martin, Executive Director of Bartram Trail Conservancy

September 24 – Pollinator Habitat Conservation in the Mountains of Western North Carolina presented by Bryan Tompkins, US Fish and Wildlife Biologist, Pollinator Conservation Specialist

Be sure to stay tuned for more information on the new Kid’s Edition of the Village Nature Series! This new addition to VNS for children will be held on the following dates in 2024: May 24, August 13, October 22, and December 17. Speakers coming soon!

by Shelby Batchelor

The Village Green Scan to learn more.

National Library Week

A week in early April illuminates the profound ways that the twin libraries keep their communities thriving.

The celebration of National Library Week 2024 (April 7-13) recalls the many ways that libraries have evolved and adapted in recent years.

Long before Google there were libraries. It was at our local library, among the shelves and card catalogs, that we researched and discovered answers to our questions. Where once the only sounds heard were “Shh,” today our libraries are buzzing with chatter of students congregating after school and the hum of computers in the background.

On Instagram and Tik Tok, Mychal Threets, a San Francisco librarian, has become a phenomenon posting upbeat videos and quirky photos – spreading “library joy” to the masses.

On the Plateau, the Albert Carlton Cashiers Community Library in Cashiers and the Hudson Library in Highlands continue to serve their constituencies with programs that enrich, and educate

and make everyday life easier, and simply more fulfilling.

Those of us who were here on August 21, 2017, will never forget the wonder we felt when we found ourselves amid the 70-miles wide path of totality of the solar eclipse that crossed the continental United States from coast to coast. For a breathtaking two minutes we witnessed the Moon completely blocking the Sun, turning day into night.

Remarkably, another total solar eclipse is coming to North America on April 8, just seven years after the last one and the Hudson and Fontana Libraries are spreading the word with educational materials and distributing glasses for safe viewing. In the week preceding the eclipse, themed story times and activities will be included in kids programming. (Note the libraries are closed on Mondays)

Have you ever had a great idea for a

book or a poem but unsure how to write it? Then this workshop is for you. From May 2 through the end of October, Michael Redman will lead the Writer’s Workshop every Thursday at 1:30 p.m. in the conference room at the Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library. Longtime writer and former adjunct professor at Western Carolina University, Redman will walk participants through the steps of writing a book from outlining to publishing. Potential storytellers gather in a relaxed and easy-going setting taking turns unwinding their stories – sometimes silently and occasionally aloud. Participants often find clarity and inspiration on topics from “how to find your voice or your subject?”

Participants have included everyone from age 12 to retirees, from writers of fiction to poetry and non-fiction. “You don’t have to think of yourself as a

writer, you just need to enjoy writing,” Redman said.

For more information, contact the Cashiers Community Library at (828) 743-0215.

You don’t have to think of yourself as a writer, you just need to enjoy writing.

Chronicling daily occurrences, taking stock of our lives, or cataloging the ways in which the presence of others affects us —journaling encompasses all of this and more; and the practice is gaining momentum for its myriad benefits, including its potential to reduce stress.

On the last Friday of month in the meeting room of the Cashiers library at 2:00 P.M., local reading tutor Laura Plush will

host a journaling workshop. The sessions have a different topic each month.

April’s subject is how to keep a reading journal – keeping track of books that you have read or noting quotes or reminders of special information.

Since the month of May is “Mental Health Awareness May” the discussion will focus on “gratitude journals.”

Interested parties are encouraged to sign up beforehand by stopping by or calling the library at (828) 743-0215.

by Marlene Osteen

Cars That Tell Our Tale

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

For more information, visit highlandsmotoringfestival.com.

In memoirs and movies, we tell our story. Through residences and restaurants, we reveal our history. And in all the many ways we talk about ourselves and our past, it is in the metal and chrome and rubber of our automobiles that our legacies are most appreciated.

The history that was written by the likes of Brass Era and Pre-war automobiles –classic cars manufactured before World War 2 – can be seen at the Highlands Motoring Festival June 6-9. Bringing together vintage car enthusiasts from the

region and beyond, the festival launches with two days of curated driving tours through the scenic roads of Western NC, and includes the Main Street Parade, two car shows and a special Saturday evening gala at the Vineyard at High Holly.

The tales of three of the 85 cars shown at Saturday’s event, “Classics in the Park” are told here.

For Van Thurston, his 1909 Sears carries on a connection to a family heirloom and a venerated family tradition. In 1909,

great grandfather, Albert Lee, purchased the car in Chicago, shipped it via train to rural Georgia, had it driven to the family farm and housed it in the barn – where it remained in the same stall, only driven when “it wasn’t broken down.” By 1982, when the car was passed down to Van Thurston from his grandfather, the engine was in pieces. He spent the next 14 years restoring the car and was able to give his 93-year-old grandfather one more ride in the car. Today the car is driven by Van Thurston’s grandsons –

1924 Yellowstone National Park bus

the sixth generation of owners!

Intriguing is the provenance of the 1924 Yellowstone National Park bus. What is little known is that Yellowstone was the site of the last commercial stagecoach operation. Fearing that the park’s dirt roads would be too steep for safe travel, cars were not allowed entry. Still, touring the park in stagecoach required 10 days. Finally in 1916, cars were permitted, albeit only private cars, and mass transportation remained under the control of the stagecoach companies. Alas, the combination of cars and stagecoaches on the same narrow roads proved dangerous. The noise and backfiring of the internal combustion

engine—a new sound on the landscape—spooked the horses, and there were several bad stagecoach wrecks. In 1917, park managers decided to do away with the stagecoaches and switch to small buses, and the stagecoach became a part of Yellowstone’s history.

Emile Darl’Mat, creator of the 1937 Peugeot Darl’Mat on display, is best remembered for the sports car based on a Peugeot 302, the engine taken from the 402. The cars were built in very limited numbers and three models – a roadster, a coupe, and a drop-head coupe - were offered. Several Peugeot-Darl’Mat 402 “spécial sport” models raced at Le Mans with success in 1937 and 1938.

This roadster was delivered to a Mr. Kacher from Valence in 1937. The car was impounded by the Parisian police in 1957 and purchased at auction by Alain Cerf, founder of the Tampa Bay Auto Museum, where the car remains today following a meticulous restoration.

by Marlene Osteen

1937 Peugeot Darl’mat

Fresh From The Market

Back in Season! The twin communities’ Farmers’ Markets are bursting with seasonal goodness.

We enjoyed our wonderfully preserved foods, our root vegetables, and winter greens during chilly-month dining.

But spring and summer are about to deliver the freshness we’ve been craving: crisp, sweet, juicy delights straight from gardens nearby. Cashiers and Highlands weekly markets display not only nutritious delights, but food grown about as close to heaven as a green leaf can get.

The Highlands Farmers’ Market is held most Saturdays, April through October in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on Pine Street in Highlands. The market provides a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, baked goods, plants, and other locally-sourced products.

Arrive between 8:00 A.M. and 12:30 P.M., bag in hand, and feel your senses rising, red-lining your Yum-ometer.

Don Deal, Highlands Marketplace

Organizer, says, “I have some new vendors this year. Get ready to stock-up on the hand-crafted products you’ve been waiting for at the Market.”

Here are the latest contributors: Select hearty plants to season your summer dishes (basil, oregano, dill, chives, tomato, etc.). Grab safe and quality hemp oil products to soothe and salve your skin and body. If soy candles are your passion, peruse the new candle selection

with its clean-burning choices. In addition to these herb, hemp, and candle products, there’s something for your sweet tooth: delicious homemade fudge. Tastebuds, rejoice!

Don adds that if you are interested in participating as a vendor yourself, please contact Don Deal at (828) 342-8239.

Mid-week-Wednesdays are your chance to shop for fresh produce, meat, dairy, jams, pickles, bakery products, fresh-cut flowers, and more in the Cashiers area. Join the scores of local residents at the covered (and bathroomed) Green Market

in the Village Green.

The market is “producer-only.” That means the vendor must be the grower and/or producer of every product they sell. Vendors are required to produce within a 100-mile radius of Cashiers. Where else can you talk to the farmers and craftspersons who are the sole creators of what they sell? There’s nothing from China here – guaranteed! Chat with your grower. If you know your farmer, you know your food.

The Green Market in Cashiers is open:

Wednesdays, 11:00 A.M to 3:00 P.M., May 1 through Oct 30. Exceptions: July 3 (because of July 4th events) and August 7 (Cashiers Annual Antique Show).

Both Markets are free and so is parking. Remember, Highlands Market starts in April. Village Green opens in May. See you there!

by Donna Rhodes

New Heights with High Style

With its fusion of art, music, food, and fashion, High Style is the quintessential Plateau celebration of Mountain Chic, May 17-19.

This exciting event, hosted by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC, is set to attract residents and visitors alike with a dynamic mixture of interactive art demonstrations, culinary experiences, fashion, music and more.

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

The weekend’s schedule is as follows:

FRIDAY, MAY 17

5:00 – 6:00 P.M.

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

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

Cost: $45

SATURDAY, MAY 18

10:00 – 11:00 A.M.

High Style Fashion Show

Town Square | 341 Main St.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this stylish affair in the heart of Highlands. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a trendsetter, or simply looking for entertainment, the Fashion Show promises an unforgettable experience for all. We encourage guests to embrace their personal style and dress to impress.

Cost $25, with VIP seating.

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

Jewelry Making Demonstration with Laurel Parham-Martinez

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

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

Live Painting with Pauline Marr

Village Square | 210 North 5th Street

Music by Lisa Rankin

Mountain Life Properties | 134 Maple

Ceramics Demonstration by Frank Vickery

The Bascom | 323 Franklin Rd.

Fly Tying Demonstration

Brookings | 273 Spring St.

11:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.

Live Painting – Jeanie Edwards

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

11:30 A.M. – 1:30 P.M.

Metal Art Demonstration with William Rogers

Town Square | 341 Main St.

Music by Byrds & Crow

The Ugly Dog | 294 S. 4th St.

Noon – 2:00 P.M

Music by Southern Highlands

Highlands Smokehouse 595 Franklin Road

Jewelry Making Demonstration with Marcie Sherwood

High Country Wine + Provisions 621 Franklin Road

1:00 – 3:00 P.M.

The Western North Carolina Woodturners’ Club

The Bascom | 323 Franklin Rd.

Music by Zorki

Village Square | 210 North 5th Street

1:30 – 3:30 P.M.

Music by Kettle

Mountain Life Properties | 134 Maple St.

Music by Curtis Blackwell

Brookings | 273 Spring St.

Charcuterie Board Class by Chef Suzanne

Mountain Life Properties | 273 Spring St.

Cost: $75

2:00 – 4:00 P.M.

Music by Charles Wood

Town Square | 341 Main Street

Music by ABC Combo

High Dive | 476 Carolina Way

Music by Doug Ramsey

Highlands Wine Shoppe | 296 Oak St.

2:30 – 3:30 P.M.

Cocktail Class

Highlands Smokehouse 595 Franklin Rd.

Cost: $25

3:00 – 4:00 P.M.

Hat Styling Demonstration

Highlands Hatter | 221 N. 4th St.

SUNDAY, MAY 19

10:00 – 11:30 A.M.

Pancakes & Prosecco Breakfast

The Bascom | 323 Franklin Road

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

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

by

Luke Osteen

Lovingly Cultivated

Local gardens and landscapes (and the people who love them) have cast their hopeful gaze toward the Mountain Garden Club’s Annual Plant Sale, May 25, at the Highlands Ball Field.

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

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

Hall, who’s also a broker with Silver Creek Real Estate Group, says that she tells new property owners to consider the Mountain Garden Club’s Annual Plant Sale, set for Saturday, May 25 from 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M., at the Town Ballfield. This unique plant sale offers you the chance to purchase native plants grown by some of the most accomplished gardeners on the Plateau. The plants have all been lovingly cultivated locally and many are native to our area, so they are ideally suited to our unique

ecosystem. These acclimated plants will grow and thrive for years to come. The guesswork has been taken out of the equation of whether it will grow and thrive in our climate.

chance to chat with the gardeners who have lovingly tended to those plants from seedling to sale.

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

There will be as many as 40 distinct types of plants, from those that attract pollinators such as Bee Balm, Astilbe, and Clematis, to the always popular Hosta in its many varieties, Cinnamon Ferns, Creeping Jenny, Coneflower, Bleeding Heart, Forsythia, Iris, Daylily, and many other offerings, including Dahlia bulbs. If you’ve admired a plant in any local garden, you’ll most likely be able to purchase it here and have a

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

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

by Luke Osteen

Scan to learn more.

Volunteers Needed

Trawling for trash spruces up the western edge of the Plateau, just in time for the Busy Season – join the Plateau Pickup at 8:30 A.M. April 13.

Join your neighbors, friends, family and co-workers for the annual Plateau Pickup on Saturday, April 13. Volunteers will begin at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on Pine Street at 8:30 A.M., where they will receive their geographic assignment. Stretches of U.S. 64, N.C. 28, N.C. 106 and parts of downtown Highlands will be covered. Groups, families and individuals are welcome!

Volunteers will receive a light breakfast, a safety vest, gloves, pick-up tools, garbage bags and a thank you t-shirt. A boxed lunch will be served to volunteers when they return to the park at 12:00 P.M.

“Last year more than 120 volunteers collected nearly 95 cubic yards of garbage,” says Kaye McHan, executive director of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands. “It is so nice to see the community come together to beautify our roadways.”

Plateau Pickup is organized by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Highlands and is part of Litter Sweep, the N.C. Department of Transportation’s biannual statewide roadside litter removal initiative. To participate, send an email to events@highlandschamber.org or call (828) 526-5841. For more information about Plateau Pickup or other Highlands events, visit highlandschamber.org.

by Luke Osteen

Highlands Bingo

The Rotary Club of Highlands’ monthly bingo games, played at Highlands Rec Park, continue a tradition of fun and fundraising.

Roots of Bingo originated in Italy. Early last century it migrated to North America, where it gathered popularity. By 1929 it evolved into Beano, a country fair game where a dealer would select numbered discs from a cigar box. Players would mark their cards with beans. They yelled “Beano!” if they won. And this was long before gas relief tablets.

The story goes, it was first played in the U.S. at a carnival near Atlanta. New York toy salesman Edwin S. Lowe renamed it “Bingo” after he overheard someone accidentally yell “Bingo” when she meant to say “Beano.”

Beano, Bingo, and an earlier version, Tombola, along with many other versions/names are part of the Bingo Family Tree dating back to the 16th century. That’s a Lotto games.

In more recent times Rotary Club of Highlands, ignoring those who poopooed what they considered an old-timey

game, launched a weekly Bingo gathering that caught fire. To this day Rotary Club of Highlands Bingo is still a hot night in Highlands.

Each month a charity is featured. Along with winning Bingo players, the feature organization is the recipient of winnings too. This month, the Interact Club of Highlands School is in the spotlight. In case you didn’t know, Interact is part of the Rotary family/foundation, for kids 12-18. Rotarians and all their clubs make lasting change from local community to the whole wide world. All that success often begins with kids of Interact.

Join April’s meeting, scheduled Thursday, April 11, at the Recreation Center, 6:30-8:30 P.M.

Here’s the calendar of upcoming Bingo Nights:

Interact Club of Highlands School: April 11

Counseling Center of Highlands: May 23

Gordon Child Care Center: June 27

Scaly Mountain Women’s Club: Date TBD

Scaly Mountain Historical Society: Date TBD

Highlands School Athletic Booster Club: Date TBD

Wreaths Across America: October 24

November: Alzheimer’s Association: Date TBD

Shop With A Cop: December 12

For more information about upcoming bingo events, contact Bob Baxter at rbax47@gmail.com, or visit highlandsrotary.org and click on “Events.”

by Donna Rhodes

Coming Home Gala

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

It’s the most joyous moment in a pet’s life. And for animal lovers, too. It’s the moment you open the front door. The moment you are coming home. You may have been gone on a long vacation or important business trip. Or just for a day at the office. Perhaps a round of golf. Maybe even just a walk down to the mailbox.

To your pet, it doesn’t matter where you went or how long you were gone.

What matters is that you have come home.

For more than a decade, we held our annual fundraiser for the CHHS shelter pets at the beautiful Country Club of Sapphire Valley. But we haven’t had our event there since before the Covid-19 pandemic.

This year, for the first time in five years, we are “coming home” to a very special place that hosted some of the most memorable and successful fundraisers in our history.

Coming Home, the 2024 gala for the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society, is Monday, June 17, at 5:00 P.M. at The Country Club of Sapphire Valley. The evening will feature a live and silent auction combined with a magnificent dinner and beer, wine and spirits. Live auction items include an unforgettable one-week vacation in Sea Island, Georgia, including tickets to the RSM Golf Classic, private dinner parties, an exclusive luncheon for 12 at the majestic Rockwood Lodge, a once-in-a-lifetime falconry experience, and the opportunity to feature your pet on the side of our newly-donated animal transport vehicle. See the article in “Giving Back” in this month’s issue - page 198.

Coming Home is limited to just 200 guests. Tickets are $225 per person and tables of 10 can be reserved for $2,250. A portion of the ticket/table purchase is a generous, tax-deductible contribution to support our lifesaving mission of rescue, spay/neuter and adoption, and

community outreach programs such as humane education, summer camps, rabies vaccination clinics, pet therapy and a free food pet pantry.

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

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

by David Stroud, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society

Double Shot for Literacy

The Swingin’ Medallions will raise the (barn) roof at The Farm at Old Edwards, June 2 at The Literacy & Learning Center’s fundraising party.

The Swingin’ Medallions

Gather up your dancing shoes and practice your Carolina Shag — the Swingin’ Medallions are coming to town for The Literacy & Learning Center’s spring fundraiser!

Mark your calendars for an evening of toetapping tunes and a generous community spirit on Sunday, June 2, at The Farm at Old Edwards.

For over 60 years, The Singin’ Medallions have captivated audiences across generations with their timeless horn-driven American beach-style music and infectious energy. Founded in 1962, the group’s signature high-octane performances continue to delight fans of all ages.

Their most iconic song, “Double Shot of My Baby’s Love,” released in 1966, remains a classic, having sold over 1.5

million copies.

After “Double Shot” launched their success, they followed that up with other notable hits like “She Drives Me Out of My Mind” (1967) and “Hey, Hey

…“Double Shot of My Baby’s Love,” released in 1966, remains a classic…

Baby” (1969). The band’s impressive discography includes numerous other singles released through Capitol and Smash Records.

This exciting event promises an unforgettable evening of musical entertainment while supporting a worthy cause.

TL&LC relies significantly on community support to offer its various programs, which are always provided

entirely free of charge. By attending this fundraiser, you’ll be directly contributing to the mission of enriching lives and expanding knowledge for childhood, adulthood, and livelihood.

Details regarding ticket price and time of day are still being finalized and will be announced as soon as possible. Stay updated by checking the Events page on the TL&LC website, TheLiteracyandLearningCenter.org.

Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a night of classic tunes, celebrate The Singin’ Medallions’ legacy, and positively impact your community! So set aside Sunday, June 2, to attend this exciting event!

by Anna Norton Literacy & Learning Center

Scan to learn more.

Sunrise, Sunset, and an Eclipse

Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust will be holding a solar celebration atop Sunset Rock (of course!) on April 8. Everyone is invited – for more information, contact americorps@ hcltnc.org or call (828) 525-1111.

This year the Plateau will be experiencing 84 percent totality during an April 8 solar eclipse.

Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust will be celebrating with a self-paced hike, crafts, educational talks, and light refreshments on Sunset Rock. Members of HCLT and The International Friendship Center will give various talks ranging from the cultural history of Ravenel Park, the geology of Sunset Rock, and different cultural legends about eclipses. HCLT will have a limited amount of solar glasses but feel free to bring your own! This event is free and open to children, adults, and families. No reservations are necessary, just hike up to the summit anytime between 1:00 and 4:30 P.M. with talks at 1:30 P.M., 2:15 P.M., and 3:00 P.M. Sunset Rock parking is located across from Highlands Biological Station.

Ravenel Park was donated to HighlandsCashiers Land Trust to be maintained as

a public preserve by the Ravenel family in 1914, making it the second property protected by the Land Trust that now conserves over 130 properties in and around Cashiers and Highlands. Ravenel Park is a 10.0 acres tract that provides a 0.6-mile (out-and-back) walking trail that leads to two overlooks, Sunrise Rock and Sunset Rock. Ravenel Park is not only popular amongst locals and tourists, but it is also an Important Bird Area for neotropical birds. This park also sits on the eastern continental divide with the rain falling on Sunset Rock flowing into the Little Tennessee drainage and water falling on Sunrise Rock flowing into the Savannah River Drainage. Ravenel Park is a unique property that contains important ecological features that provides extensive views of Horse Cove via Sunrise Rock and the town of Highlands via Sunset Rock.

Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization

with the mission “to protect valuable natural resources for all generations.”

HCLT, formerly known as Highlands Improvement Society, was formed in 1909 when a group of townspeople in Highlands came together and purchased the top of Satulah Mountain. HCLT currently protects over 4,000 acres in Macon and Jackson County. Through Stewardship of the land and education of the public, the HighlandsCashiers Land Trust continues to advocate for living organisms, water, and land of the Plateau.

Contact americorps@hcltnc.org or call (828) 526-1111.

by Jessica Blackburn Americorps, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust

Groovin’ Kicks Off

Dust off your dancing shoes – there’s a full season of Groovin’ on the Green popping up on the Village Green.

The Village Green is excited to announce the highly anticipated return of its free summer concert series, Groovin’ on The Green!

This year, the concert series introduces exciting new features, including a new time from 6:00 P.M. until 8:30 P.M., and a new band lineup!

Groovin’ on The Green kicks off on May 24 with the Darren Nicholson Band and will continue on select Fridays until Labor Day, promising a season of unforgettable music and community spirit. Come rain or shine, Groovin’ on The Green will go on, ensuring evenings of fantastic music experiences and community engagement and connection.

The Village Green will continue to offer groups the opportunity to Rent a Tent for an enhanced experience. Tent reservation links will be live on The

Village Green’s website soon, allowing groups to plan and secure their tent for an unforgettable evening!

Groovin’ on The Green kicks off on May 24 with the Darren Nicholson Band

Don’t miss the chance to be a part of The Village Green’s Groovin’ on The Green summer concert series! The full schedule can be found on The Village Green’s website or social media @ cashiersgreen! Mark your calendars, pack your picnics and lawn chairs, and get ready to groove!

Local food and beverage options will be available at each Groovin’ on The Green. This year’s vendors will be available on select dates and include Elevated Kitchen, El Bodegon Food Truck, Chili Chomper, Whiteside Brewing Company, Innovation Brewing, and Crossroads Custard. Attendees are welcome to bring their own picnics and coolers.

Dogs are welcome to join, provided they are leashed and accompanied by their owners at all times.

The Village Green would like to thank Presenting Sponsor Landmark Realty Group and all of our 2024 Corporate Sponsors including Ingles Markets, Cashiers Valley Real Estate, Rusticks, Laurel Magazine, Spinx, Caliber Fine Properties, Jackson County Parks & Recreation, WHLC 104.5, and Whiteside Brewing/Wells Hotel for ensuring that The Village Green can continue to bring our Cashiers community its treasured and beloved community events and programs!

by Shelby Batchelor The Village Green

Let’s Celebrate The Green

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

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

“Saddle up for an unforgettable Kentucky Derby celebration benefiting The Village Green this May,” says Cashiers Valley’s Sarah Jennings, who’s drawing up plans for this celebration even as you’re reading this. “It’ll be a party loaded with Derby fashion, dinner, drinks, music, games and thrilling horse racing action. We will also be broadcasting the Kentucky Derby live during the evening and taking your bets. You could walk away with some fabulous prizes! Did we mention mint juleps? Our sponsor, Woodinville Whiskey Co. will be serving up some delicious derby cocktails. Tickets are $250 per person.

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

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

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

It’s a 12.5-acre park located at the crossroads of Highway 64 and Highway 107. Hosting thousands of visitors and over 80 events each year, The Village Green is not only the heart of Cashiers in its location, but also in its ability to draw family and friends together in community. It’s a special place where people and nature come together.

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

by Luke Osteen Painting of Village Green by Ken Bowser

APRIL

“Our spring has come at last with the soft laughter of April suns and shadow of April showers.”

Studio Alive, 10 AM, The Bascom.

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

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

Bluegrass Brunch, 10:30 AM - 1 PM, Highlander Mountain House. HCP: Squabbles, 2 PM, Highlands PAC. Music Bingo, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Bluegrass Brunch, 10:30 AM - 1 PM, Highlander Mountain House.

Community Jam Sessions, 2-4 PM, Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library.

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

— Byron Caldwell Smith

The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM.

Wine Wednesday, Highlander Mountain House.

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

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

The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM.

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

Grub for Good, 5 PM, Whiteside Brewing. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:30 PM, Lewis Hall.

Blues & Brews, The Ruffed Grouse Tavern.

HCP: Squabbles, 7:30 PM, Highlands PAC.

Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM.

The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM.

Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

HCP: Squabbles, 7:30 PM, Highlands PAC.

Live Music, 9 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM - 1 PM.

The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM.

Titanic: The Musical, 1 PM, Highlands PAC.

Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

Bazaar Barn, Hummingbird Lounge.

Live Music, Patrick French, 6 PM, Hotel Cashiers.

HCP: Squabbles, 7:30 PM, Highlands PAC.

Live Music, 9 PM, High Dive.

Studio Alive, 10 AM, The Bascom.

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

Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust Solar Celebration, 1 PM, Sunset Rock. Dancing on the Green, 7 PM, The Village Green.

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

7 9

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.

American Chestnut Lecture, 4 PM, Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library.

Wine Wednesday, Highlander Mountain House.

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

Studio Alive, 10 AM, The Bascom.

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

Vinyl Vibes: An Italian Springtime Feast with Chef Richards, 6 PM, The Farm at Old Edwards. Music Bingo, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

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

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.

Wine Wednesday, Highlander Mountain House.

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

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

The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Grub for Good, 5 PM, Whiteside Brewing. Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:30 PM, Lewis Hall.

Blues & Brews, The Ruffed Grouse Tavern.

Highlands Rotary Bingo, 6:30 PM, Highlands Recreation Center. Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

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

The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Grub for Good, 5 PM, Whiteside Brewing.

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:30 PM, Lewis Hall. Orchard Sessions, Mike Kinnebrew, 6-8 PM, The Farm at Old Edwards. Salon Series, Lillie Mae, 8:30 PM, Highlander Mountain House. Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

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

Live Music, Doug Ramsey, 6 PM, Happ’s Place. Live Music, 9 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM.

The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM.

Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

Live Music, Blue Jazz Band, 6 PM, Happ’s Place.

Live Music, 9 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Plateau Pickup, 8:30 AM-12 PM, meet Kelsey Hutchinson Founders Park. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. Live Music, Rock Holler, 6 PM, Happ’s Place. Live Music, 9 PM, High Dive.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

Bluegrass Brunch, 10:30 AM - 1 PM, Highlander Mountain House. Music Bingo, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Studio Alive, 10 AM, The Bascom.

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

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

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.

Wine Wednesday, Highlander Mountain House.

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

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

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Cashiers Quilters, 12:30 PM, St. Jude’s Catholic Church. Grub for Good, 5 PM, Whiteside Brewing.

Cashiers Valley Community Chorus, 5:30 PM, Lewis Hall.

Blues & Brews, The Ruffed Grouse Tavern.

Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

Bazaar Barn 10 AM-2 PM.

The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM. Community Coffee with Mayor Taylor, 11 AM, Hudson Library.

Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

Live Music, Corey Stevenson, 6 PM, Happ’s Place

PAC Education Theatre, Oliver, 7 PM, Highlands PAC.

Live Music, 9 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Bluegrass Brunch, 10:30 AM - 1 PM, Highlander Mountain House. Community Jam Sessions, 2-4 PM, Albert Carlton Library.

PAC Education Theatre, Oliver, 3 PM, Highlands PAC. Music Bingo, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Studio Alive, 10 AM, The Bascom.

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

Art League of HighlandsCashiers meeting. 4:30 PM, The Bascom Terrace.

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

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

Village Nature Series, 5:30 PM.

Lewis Hall, The Village Green.

10 AM-2 PM. Mountain Findings, AM-1

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.

MET: La Rondine, 12:55 PM, Highlands PAC.

Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM.

Live Music, 9 PM, High Dive.

MET: La Rondine, 12:55 PM, Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. 9 PM, High Dive. Park.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM.

Sassafras Artisan Market, 10 AM, Rabun County Pavillions.

Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

Live Music The Remnants, 6 PM, Happ’s Place.

Live Music, Fancie Marie, 6:30 PM, Hotel Cashiers.

PAC Education Theatre, Oliver, 7 PM, Highlands PAC.

Live Music, 9 PM, High Dive.

7 PM, Highlands PAC. 9 PM, High Dive.

ON THE HORIZON

May Events

MONDAY, APRIL 29 - SUNDAY, MAY 5

Cashiers Burger Week Cashiers, North Carolina

Pick up your Burger Week Passport at the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce, present passport when ordering burger and the participating restaurant will stamp the passport. Vote for your favorite and win prizes. cashiersburgerweek.com

SATURDAY, MAY 11

Highlands Dog Show

1 PM, Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park

This event is expected to be a bark-tastic celebration of our furry companions and a perfect lead-in to the Mother’s Day weekend.

FRIDAY, MAY 17 - SUNDAY, MAY 19

High Style

Highlands, North Carolina

With its fusion of art, music, food, and fashion, High Style is the quintessential Plateau celebration of Mountain Chic. highlandschamber.org

THURSDAY, MAY 2 - SATURDAY, MAY 4

Three Rivers Fly Fishing Festival

Highlands, North Carolina

The Three Rivers Fly Fishing Festival offers plenty of challenges for both veteran anglers and clever novices of all ages.

3riverflyfish.com

SATURDAY - SUNDAY, MAY 11-12

Bear Shadow Music Festival

Transcending its initial aspirations, Bear Shadow has become a phenomenon in its own right. Drawing attendees from 32 states and earning recognition from Southern Living as one of the Top 10 Festivals in the South, it has established itself as a must-attend musical celebration. bearshadownc.com

June Events

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5 - SATURDAY, JUNE 22

Mountain Theatre Company’s Grease Highlands PAC

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

MONDAY, JUNE 17

CHHS’s Coming Home Gala Country Club of Sapphire Valley

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

SATURDAY - SUNDAY, JUNE 29-30

Mountaintop Art and Craft Show

10 AM-5 PM, Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park

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

EVENT SERIES

THURSDAY - SUNDAY, JUNE 6 - 9

Highlands Motoring Festival

Highlands, North Carolina

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

highlandsmotoringfestival.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 29

Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock & Roll Highlands PAC

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

highlandsperformingarts.com

Weekly Monthly

Locally Grown On The Green Wednesdays | 11 AM-3 PM | The Village Green

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

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

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

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

Pop-Up Pipers First Saturdays | 4:30-5 PM | Around Highlands

Orchard Sessions Select Dates | 6-8 PM | The Farm at Old Edwards May 30, June 20, July 11, Aug. 15, Oct. 10

RECREATION & CREATION

Pages 68-87

photo by Susan Renfro

Protect Our Biodiversity Hotspot

Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust’s mission achieves even greater resonance during Earth Month.

It has been said that change is the only constant in life. Change is indeed inevitable and often it is the vehicle for growth; however, how we change is something we can and should be intentional about.

As the Plateau continues to change, what is it about this place that we should be intentional about keeping?

One thing that we can all agree on is that our natural environment is one of the key things that makes the Plateau special. Not only do our lush forests, cool rivers, and diverse wildlife afford us quality of life, they also play an important role in keeping our planet, and each of us healthy.

As a hotspot for biodiversity and the

starting point for water that eventually either makes its way to the Atlantic Ocean or Gulf of Mexico, what happens on the Plateau is not just about us, but has far reaching effects. It is the responsibility of each of us to keep our natural places thriving.

One nonprofit organization has been working for 115 years to conserve the

places we all love and need. Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust works with private landowners to voluntarily conserve their ecologically valuable land.

One way they conserve land is by using a legal tool called a conservation easement. A landowner is able to retain ownership of their property while donating some of their development rights and in many cases receiving a tax benefit.

This is a highly individualized process

…our lush forests, cool rivers, and diverse wildlife afford us quality of life…

where the landowner works closely with the Land Trust to come up with parameters that work for their family. The land is conserved forever, even if it is sold. The Land Trust also accepts outright donations of land.

During Earth Month, we are reminded

that working together, we can save some of the most biologically diverse lands here among some of the world’s oldest mountains. To learn more visit hcltnc.org or email info@hcltnc.org.

by Julie Schott, Highlands Cashiers Land Trust photo by Stephanie Contreras

A Parliament of Owls

This legendary creature haunts our forests and woodlands.

Yes, we have owls, Barred Owls in particular. These magnificent birds are year-round residents of Western North Carolina. Their stillness and silence, even in flight, make it difficult to see them. But they are there, silent sentries in our trees.

Barred Owls (Strix varia) are uncommon and usually solitary. Notable characteristics are their dark eyes, streaked plumage and 42-inch wingspans. They are nocturnal creatures whose diet includes small mammals like chipmunks and mice.

From their high perches they survey the forest floor beneath them and swoop down silently in a second to subdue their unsuspecting prey. They are deadly hunters with sharp beaks and talons. Because they prey upon other birds, owls are unwelcome guests locally and are sometimes attacked by other birds.

Owls are steeped in myth and legend. Both the Sumerian goddess Lilith and Greek goddess Athena were depicted with a retinue of owls. In today’s fictional portrayals of talking animals, the owl is always the wise one. A collection of these mythologized birds is called a parliament (of owls).

The Barred Owl call is a haunting, polysyllabic series of hoots and howls that have been transliterated “Who cooks for you?” by bird watchers.

Barred Owls nest in tree hollows or they take a nest built by crows or Pileated Woodpeckers. Their nest will contain a clutch of 2-4 eggs that hatch in about 4 weeks. Fledging occurs in another 4-5 weeks. The fuzzy young nestlings emit a loud hissing sound that prompts the mother to feed them. The father brings food to the mother on the nest.

Owls have been known to live for 24 years in the wild. They are built for silent flight with unique feathers that lack the usual avian waterproofing to remain soft and flexible in the wind. Without water repellence they get waterlogged easily and owls cannot fly when wet.

Happy owling and April birding from the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society. Listen at night for a series of falsetto hoots: “Who cooks for you?”

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

Barred Owl

Co-existing with Bears

Life with black bears requires a healthy dose of common sense and a bit of respect.

Mountaintop residents are lucky to live in the midst of Nature’s best. But we have to remind ourselves that we moved into the homes of animals, not the other way around. Mother Nature has a Rulebook.

There is something compelling about large beasts. Black bears are the best. But their intrigue fools us into thinking we could just run up and scrunch their thick, inviting fur, then run away before Pooh even notices. After a couple of beers, it starts to be an even better idea.

Here’s what the wildlife experts with the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies tell us: How to co-exist with bears. Parentheticals are shared by the author, who is not a wildlife expert, but smart enough to acknowledge her wisdom and preservation/cowardice.

1. Never feed or approach bears. (Bears mostly want to eat easy-to-get forest stuff – or barbecue leftovers. But don’t be near a bear when it’s foraging, which is most of the time. In fact, just don’t be near a bear.)

2. Secure food, garbage, and recycling. (Otherwise, it’s a bear’s smorgasbord and a splintered deck.)

3. Remove bird feeders when bears are active. (Bears are opportunists. Why walk a mile to the garbage bins when they can smack down a convenient mouthful of seedy snacks?)

4. Avoid leaving pet foods outside. (Even heavy-duty plastic containers are no more than tissue paper to a bear. It’s Christmas-wrapping for bear kibbles.)

5. Clean grill; store if possible. (A bear’s sniffer is seven times that of a bloodhound – those scraped salmon crumbles are bear claw kabobs. And they’re sniffed from a mile away.)

6. Let neighbors know about bear sightings. (Knowing is so much better than having a bear do a Wreck-it Ralph in your neighbor’s storage shed.)

If you’ve followed all the above advice, and you’re accidentally in a muzzle-to-muzzle situation, here are ways to encourage a bear to back down without losing your lunch (in more ways

than one). Look for these cues:

• Teeth clacking, moaning, rumbling, huffing, puffing (the bear, not you)

• Stomping the ground

• To get a better look, it might stand really tall.

• If it’s super agitated, it might charge – bluffing, then stopping

These are your cues to hold your ground and holler, squawk, make lots of noise, and stand giant-tall as you back away. As tempted as you’ll be, do not run away, unless your visiting kerfuffle cousin runs a lot slower than you – kidding! Everybody back out together and the bear will likely snort and disappear in the underbrush.

by Donna Rhodes

Tiho Trichkov

photo by

The Annual Wildflower Spectacle

Spring

unveils its floral tapestry on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.

Discover for yourself at the Highlands Botanical Garden.

As March’s unpredictable blasts of cold fade from view, the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau comes alive with the vibrant hues of spring, ushering in a season of renewal and natural wonders.

Nestled within this picturesque landscape, the Highlands Biological Foundation, a local non-profit dedicated to fostering biological research and education in the southern Appalachians, eagerly anticipates the unfolding of the

annual wildflower spectacle.

Among the first heralds of spring were the delicate Oconee Bells, their pale pink and white petals gently swaying in the mountain breeze. These evergreen perennials, endemic to the region, serve as nature’s trumpets, announcing the arrival of warmer days. As the sun gains strength, the forest floor becomes adorned with the dainty blooms of Trout Lilies, their mottled leaves resembling the patterns of their aquatic namesakes.

Venturing deeper into the woodlands, one may encounter various species of enchanting Trillium, a trio of graceful petals unfurling in hues ranging from pure white to deep burgundy. These blooms are trailblazers, setting the stage for an extravagant floral display that will gradually unfold across the Plateau.

As spring progresses, the landscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, with a diverse array of wildflowers making their debut. From the

subtle beauty of Bloodroot to the vivid hues of Blue Cohosh, each bloom tells a story of resilience and adaptation in the southern Appalachians.

As the days lengthen and temperatures rise, the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau will become a haven for nature enthusiasts and botany aficionados alike. There are a multitude of natural areas to take in these wildflowers as they come alive, and the Highlands Botanical Garden is one at the top of our list. Open daily and free to the public, visitors are invited to witness the unfolding of this botanical masterpiece over the coming months.

During winter, these wildflowers lay dormant beneath the soil. With their arrival welcoming spring, it will not be long before seasonal programs and events are hosted throughout the region.

Soon, the Highlands Biological Foundation will once again open the Highlands Nature Center for another season of educational programming, welcoming locals and visitors of all ages to explore the natural history exhibits, meet live animal ambassadors, and learn about the wanders and incredible biodiversity of our region. Through initiatives that stimulate, promote, and fund research

and education, the Foundation works to inspire our community to connect with our region and ensure that the magic of springtime, and all other seasons, persists for generations to come.

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

by Winter Gary Highlands Biological

Foundation

Clear Day Thunder

An American Chestnut workshop at Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library, set for April 10, spotlights the perils and the promise facing this national treasure.

Chestnut trees thrived on Planet Earth for 56 million years. Then suddenly, in the early 1900s on America’s Eastern seaboard, four billion American Chestnut trees were wiped out in a matter of years.

An Asian tree blight, Cryphonectria parasitica or chestnut blight, silently piggy-backing Japanese trade ships, slowly, relentlessly crept trunk to leaf to core all across the land. It left swaths of dying chestnuts and their accompanying ecosystems devoid of food and habitat.

When the blight took hold, scientists were at a loss. They hadn’t the tools, skills, and research we have today. In an effort to save the trees, forestry workers cut down many American Chestnuts, isolating tree stands, in hopes of preventing transference. Had they not felled so many chestnuts, the few trees among them capable of building immunity, might have saved the forests. Even worse, lumberjacks didn’t know

to clean their tools. With each chop, they were injecting trees with doses of contagious blight.

American Chestnuts aren’t entirely gone. They still grow from ancient root systems throughout the Appalachians today. The blight can’t live underground. But once the Chestnut fledglings see daylight, they succumb to the persistent blight … long before reaching their previous 100+ feet. Sadly, they’ve become a hedge more than a forest. It’s a crushing thought that when Highlands was becoming a settlement, one in four trees was a Chestnut. By late 1930s . . . they were gone.

But there’s hope. Andrew Renfro, Land Conservation Director of Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, shares this, “Researchers are working towards developing a blight resistant American Chestnut, suitable for forest-scale restoration efforts. In 2023 the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust was

proud to screen the American Chestnut Foundation’s newly released documentary, Clear Day Thunder - Rescuing the American Chestnut, discussing their efforts using techniques such as crossbreeding and genomics, to develop and grow chestnut trees with sufficient blight resistance and representative genetic diversity to eventually enable landscape level restoration.”

On April 10 at 4:00 P.M. there’s an Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library screening. It’s free and you don’t have to register.

Andrew adds there are lots of ways you can help American Chestnuts through the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, hcltnc.org. Or load a free App: Tree Snap. Be part of citizen science. If you find an American Chestnut in the woods, photograph it (name its location) and send it to the collaborators and scientists who support Tree Snap.

by Donna Rhodes / photo by Andrew Renfro

Bald Eagles in Highlands

Keep watching the skies! There are really big birds soaring above us.

In our July 2021 Issue, our in-house naturalist/philosopher and resident smart guy William McReynolds explained how the Bald Eagle, our National Bird, was returning to the Plateau.

I knew this spectacular bird of prey, the resilient symbol of an endangered species being brought back from the edge of extinction, had been spotted over Lake Glenville and southern Jackson County, but somehow it hadn’t occurred to me that they’d returned to Highlands, a bit further to the west and a bit higher in elevation.

That’s why I was startled when I spied this massive bird atop a dying hemlock on Mirror Lake. There was no mistaking its identity with its snowy white hood, deep breasted body, and stone-cold killer gaze. (Aren’t all raptors unimpeachably cool?

Think of those majestic Peregrine Falcons patrolling Whiteside. They don’t need to wear Ray-Bans, not even the diminutive Chicken Hawk.)

Of course, if I’d been paying attention a

little more closely, I wouldn’t have been surprised.

Here’s what Jason Love, the Highlands Biological Station’s Associate Director had to say about Bald Eagles in Highlands.

“I’ve seen Bald Eagles the past couple of years in the Highlands area. There was one earlier this winter that was hanging around Harris Lake, probably attracted to the stocked trout and waterfowl.

“We saw it again during the annual Christmas Bird Count and were able to add it to the list. I imagine this is the same bird that has been spotted at Mirror Lake but can’t be certain. There is a pair that has nested on Lake Emory in Franklin the past several years. It seems that Bald Eagles have been slowly expanding in the mountains, which is nice to see.

“Based on HBS’s historic records, there was an adult Bald Eagle that was spotted flying at Whitesides Mountain on July 20, 1956. According the eBird, which

is a citizen science app that allows one to report bird sightings, there have been several sightings in the Highlands area in recent years:

“Those found in the fall and spring are likely migrating birds. The ones in the winter may be local birds who are either foraging or perhaps looking for nest sites. To my knowledge there is not a nest in the Highlands area, but that may soon change.

“Regardless, these recent sightings should be celebrated, as the Bald Eagle was once listed as Federally Endangered. That status can largely be linked to the use of DDT, which caused eggshell thinning in raptors, causing the eggs to be crushed when the birds tried to incubate them. The US has banned DDT and has also passed stricter water quality standards thanks to the Clean Water Act, which likely also played a role in the bird’s recovery, since it primarily preys on fish and waterfowl.”

by Luke Osteen

A Hike To Remember

Her son knew what he was doing – never, ever, challenge Dixie Stewart to a feat of physical and mental endurance. (And her friend Nola, too).

Dixie Stewart turned 68 years old on the Appalachian Trail (AT) last year. An avid hiker, she decided to embark on the 2,100mile iconic east coast hiking challenge after one of her two sons, Tyler, encouraged her.

“You’re going to talk about it and never do it,” he challenged. After that, Stewart and a hiking friend, Nola Privett, began reading and preparing for the Springer Mountain, Georgia, to Katahdin, Maine, northbound adventure.

Both women currently live in Waynesville. Stewart and her husband, Richard, resided in Cashiers for a while, but then moved to the coast and eventually returned to the mountains. To be on the AT for several months, Stewart had to take a leave of absence from her job as a registered nurse at Mission Hospital, while Privett semi-retired from her

career as a medical technologist. Stewart had plenty of miles of hiking experience before setting out on the AT March 19, 2023. “My husband, Richard, and I had hiked a lot, even section hiking from Springer Mountain to Fontana Dam on weekends and days off.”

She read many of the popular AT books prior to hitting the trail, including A Walk in the Woods, by Bill Bryson; Grandma Gatewood’s Walk, by Ben Montgomery; Hiking Through, by Paul Stutzman; The Unlikely Thru-Hiker, by Derick Lugo; and various how-to books. She also watched videos and researched gear.

“You learn from reading that it’s not all romance; it’s hard work.”

The hike was made more challenging by the fact that Stewart has scoliosis. Not far into the hike, she realized her pack

was not the right fit for her body, so she had to be fitted at Mountain Crossings in Blairsville, Georgia.

“That was my first major gear change.”

She also had to change shoes every few hundred miles. And, after a tent pole broke, she determined her tent and mattress pad were not large enough.

Stewart and Privett hiked together for most of the journey, took a healthy break for a bit, and then met back up in the White Mountains to continue onto Mount Katahdin.

Despite any difficulties, including Stewart breaking her hand in Maine but continuing to the finish line, bright spots were many. Stewart’s two sons, Tyler and Rich, met her for day hikes, as did various friends and other family members. “What you miss the most on the trail is family and that connection,” said

(standing l to r) Robert Boyle, Darrin Mullett, and Dixie Stewart (sitting) Nola Privett

Stewart, who also has two daughters.

“In general, the people I met were the highlight of the trail,” she added. “Whenever you don’t have something, someone will give it to you, and when I broke my hand, Nola and others helped set up my tent, carry my pack across a river …”

As with all hikers, the scenery motivates. Stewart especially enjoyed the North Carolina sections of the AT and seeing Smoky Mountain National Park when wildflowers blossomed.

A favorite “trail town” was Franklin, which she said “does an awesome job as a trail town. I was with a group of young hikers and we really had a fun time.”

When Stewart climbed Mount Katahdin, the highest mountain in the state of Maine, at 5,269 feet, and found the sign indicating the end of her AT hike, she said she “laughed a lot from pure joy. It was a long day but satisfying day.”

Privett, who had less hiking experience

than Stewart – other than day hikes –said about finishing the AT: “Getting up every morning, crawling out of that tent, sometimes hiking in the rain … it was tough at times. Doing that day after day after day, eight to 10 hours a day is hard. Getting to Mount Katahdin was nice because I knew I was getting to go home and be with my family afterwards. Also, going back into real life and a regular routine is an adjustment. But it definitely was a bonding experience with other AT hikers, and when I meet AT hikers now, we immediately have a connection.”

This year, Stewart plans to hike on the AT with friends and pass out trail magic – snacks, water, etc. – to hikers. Less than a year from her summit moment, she has had time to reflect and shared: “I learned I had perseverance I didn’t think I had. I’ve done several difficult hikes and challenges, but nothing this long. I’ve done hard things before and knew I had the determination, but when you are four months into it and ready to be home,

that’s all you can think about.”

Both women’s family and friends are proud of their accomplishment. Stewart’s son, Tyler, who truly knows what his mother encountered, since he had hiked the AT himself, told her after Mount Katahdin, “I knew you could do it.”

While Stewart plans to tackle some shorter hikes, such as the 310-mile Superior in Minnesota, the 93-mile Wonderland Trail at Mount Ranier, Wash., and the 77-mile Foothills Trail in South Carolina, she desires not to be away from friends and family for longer than a week to a month at a time. Privett feels the same.

But both women are glad they are among the thousands of people who can say that they have, indeed, completed a thru-hike of the AT.

by Deena Bouknight

Spring Honeybee Workshop

The profound glories and little mysteries of beekeeping are explored in a workshop at The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center, set for 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Saturday, May 11, at 3872 Dillard Road in Highlands. Cost is $50.

You’re invited to participate in our Spring Honeybee Workshop led by David Kirslis, the beekeeper for The Mountain’s Many Hands Peace Farm.

Here’s what Jesse’s brother David has to say about the event and what bees mean to his family and to all of us:

“My brother David Kirslis is the beekeeper hosting the workshop. We are both Lithuanian and our culture revered the bee, and the honey bee keeper even acted as the town mayor, marrying people and solving disputes.

“My grandfather and father kept bees and we have a family tradition of beekeeping going back for centuries. “Here at the farm, our honeybees were tested last year for a very detrimental and destructive mite parasite that is killing hives throughout the country, and we’re happy to say our bees were mite-free!”

“We have built a new bear-proof honeybee sanctuary next to the wildflower meadow for the bees.”

“We will be hosting the Spring introduction-to-beekeeping workshop, showing folks how to introduce a hive to their new home, how to use the tools and conduct maintenance checks, which species of plants the bees prefer, how to protect the bees, and give a background on the behavior and biology of the honeybee species.”

In this workshop, we’ll learn what honeybee stewardship entails. We also will go over additional pollinators in our region and identify different types of plants that best support honeybees as well as give aid to migratory pollinator species on their long journeys.

We do have a few bee suits but if you have a bee suit, please bring with you to allow more folks an in-depth experience.

What to bring: water bottle, comfortable

walking shoes, and dress for the weather – and EPI pen if you’re allergic to bees.

All of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet!

If you must cancel your reservation, then please let us know, at the latest, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs, then please let us know ASAP. For both options we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event or receive your money back.

For more information or to register, visit themountainrlc.org.

by Clint Carruth The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center

photo by Susan Renfro

Pigment and Passion

Cover Artist Hannah More Hyde’s

vibrant

creations are a candle to counter the darkness.

Hannah More Hyde’s family tree has a creative member perched on every limb. Her father is an opera singer. Her grandfather is a sculptor. Her brother is a composer. Hannah’s a professional dancer and painter. And that’s just a few of the tree’s artistic boughs.

As a child, Hannah wasn’t an enrolled student of the arts, but she was a devotee of all the virtuosities she

witnessed in her family. As her artistic interests began to unfold, she was drawn to dance and choreography. Then, personal losses pushed her toward expressionist painting.

It was in her twenties that Steven, a close friend, passed away. She shared that she felt helpless. The only thing controllable was painting, so she picked up a brush and loaded it with brilliant color. She swirled and daubed flower petals, leaves,

and stems. She filled her canvas with an explosion of affection for her friend, trying to fill the huge hole he left behind. Hannah says she relies on painting more when challenges come her way. Painting was a tremendous release when she experienced a painful divorce.

Some people go to counselors. Some climb a mountain and shout at the heavens.

Hannah blasts a canvas with brilliant pigment and passion.

In the midst of occasional pain and loss, why does she paint flowers?

She says, “There’s something I need to give others and to myself when I am creating, so I paint colorful flowers. The subject matter is bright, uplifting, peaceful. Grief is probably what made me more serious about painting. My friend, Kirsten, had cancer. I gave her a painting, a bouquet of flowers that, unlike cut flowers, would last forever. Kirsten took my painting everywhere. She’d get

low, then take a look at her painting, and it was an instant mood change. Her joy made me feel worthy. What I thought was ordinary, she found life-changing. Inspired by family, I practiced daily to sharpen skills I once took for granted.”

Imagine losing good friends so early in life. But Hannah took a positive path and translated sorrow into beauty.

When you look at this month’s cover, note it is loaded with a full range of feeling. Amid exploding colors is passion and peace. It’s a reminder that life is a gift and art gives it an emotion that

words simply can’t express.

Contact Hannah about commissions, upcoming events, and exhibitions. Find her through hannahmorelivingart. squarespace.com; and hannahmorelivingart@gmail.com.

by Donna Rhodes

A Turning Journey

A lifetime of learning has led to Hamp Stevens’ endlessly beguiling woodturned artworks. He’s ready to share the wisdom and the vision.

Hamp Stevens. wood-turner and mathematics aficionado, has amp in his high-powered name; in fact, everything Hamp says and does is loaded with amplitude.

Hamp is a sixth-generation South Georgian. His father was an agribusiness man, his mother an artist and clothing designer. Hamp inherited their determination, craftsmanship, and natural curiosity, so inventions and challenges were, and still are the things he wakes-up and falls-asleep with.

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, to pay for his education at University of Georgia, he became an ironworker. Upon graduation, his brother became his business partner. Together they built a successful steel erection business in heavy construction: bridges, power plants, etc.

He laughs and says, “I was even forced to learn civil engineering.” Add to that acquiring a degree in business.

Building new companies seemed to come naturally to Hamp. In 1996, before all was said and done, he bought Leonard’s Losers (popular sports magazine and radio show). He owned a 400-acre Turf Farm. He holds a United States Patent on a Turf Grass Planting Machine, a sophisticated apparatus he manufactured and sold worldwide. He started and financed a ball cap company. He financed and helped start a bio-tech company.

“In the mid-1990s, I was a professional commodities trader,” added Hamp. “I owned a seat on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. For several years, I was one of those people who scream at each other on the exchange floor. Business is real simple up in Chicago: you take people’s money – or they take yours!”

Along the way, Hamp explored the mathematics of spheres, cubes, pentagonal and triangular solids, and pyramids taught by Aristotle and Plato. Combine his fascinations for 3-D math,

wood-turning, and woodworking, and he can safely claim-his-fame of being one of a very few people on the planet who can turn the magic he does.

And what is even more amazing – he wants to share those skills with any man or woman who is an accomplished woodworker and woodturner with a willingness to measure carefully. Hamp’s done all the research, the math, sorting out the means, the materials, and the history of this exciting turning-journey.

All that said, if you can wood-work and wood-turn, you can make an eye-popping, jaw-dropping, sculptural treasure in a matter of a couple of days for the cost of a few hours instruction, wood-scraps, and a glob of glue.

Want to know more? Visit Hamp’s website: hampstevens.com. Or email him at jhs3007@gmail.com.

by Donna Rhodes

Making Arts

Accessible

She’s back! The Bascom welcomes the return of Art Educator Autumn White, who dazzled and enlightened at her last visit.

The summer season brings new life to the Bascom studios, in particular the Hughes Children’s Studio where young artists from across the region participate in several youth-oriented workshops in a variety of mediums.

Studio leadership for these programs is facilitated by a visiting art education professional. Annually, The Bascom selects a talented arts educator to bring fresh ideas and innovative approaches to youth art education to the campus to share with the young creatives on the Plateau during the summer.

We are particularly thrilled to announce the return of Autumn White as our 2024 summer art educator. Drawing from her experience as a visual arts teacher, Autumn left a lasting impact on the young creatives of the Plateau during her tenure with The Bascom in 2023. Her presence promises to contribute to

another inspiring and enriching summer for budding artists.

Autumn received her Bachelor of Fine Art and Bachelor of Science in Education from Western Carolina University in 2016. Autumn completed her student teaching in Franklin, North Carolina, and was nominated by her cooperating teacher for the Outstanding Prospective Teacher Award. Following her graduation, Autumn embarked on her career at Rio Rancho Public Schools in New Mexico, where she taught elementary art. In 2018, Autumn presented teaching techniques on Shibori indigo dying at the New Mexico Art Education Association alongside her colleague, Donna Barnitz. This experience ignited her passion for fiber art, leading her to study weaving in Abiquiu, New Mexico, at The Ghost Ranch. In 2022, Autumn made the decision to return to Western North Carolina to be closer to her family, and

she is currently a full-time educator in Buncombe County Schools.

Registration is now open for The Bascom’s Summer Youth Workshops, taking place from June to July. We strongly believe in making the arts accessible, and scholarships are available for those who wish to participate. Please join us in welcoming Autumn White to The Bascom this summer! For more information or to register for her classes and workshops, visit thebascom.org/play/youth-classes-workshops

by Billy Love, The Bascom

Scan to learn more.

Live on Screen

Highlands Performing Arts Center’s Live on Screen series is a month-long celebration of the glories of art, music and drama.

Everyone is invited to join us in Highlands Performing Arts Center’s Martin-Lipscomb Theater for a trio of screenings.

On Friday, April 5, we’ll be offering Great Art on Screen: Titian: Empire of Color. Winning over popes and emperors with his iconic, revolutionary works, Titian succeeded in becoming one of the artists that symbolized the entire Renaissance. Titian was an extraordinary master of color and a brilliant entrepreneur, innovative both in a painting’s composition but also in how to sell it. In only a few years, Tiziano Vecellio became the official painter of Venice and the utmost artist sought after by the richest and most influential Courts in Europe. The Special Guest is Jeff Koons. This screening will start at 4:30 P.M.

On Saturday April 6, it’s Titanic: The Musical. Based on real people aboard the most legendary ship in the world, Titanic: The Musical is

‘breathtaking’ (The Guardian) and ‘magnificent’ (The Telegraph), a stunning and stirring production focusing on the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of her passengers who each boarded with stories and personal ambitions of their own, all innocently unaware of the fate awaiting them. With music and lyrics by Maury Yeston and a book by Peter Stone – the pair have collectively won an Academy Award, an Emmy Award, an Olivier Award and three Tony Awards. The original Broadway production of Titanic: The Musical won five Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book. This stunning production, captured live on stage for cinema screenings, celebrates the 10th anniversary of its London premiere, where it won sweeping critical acclaim. It’ll be screened at 1:00 P.M.

MET Opera returns to the PAC on Saturday, April 20, with La Rondine. Puccini’s bittersweet love story returns to cinema, with soprano Angel Blue

starring as the French courtesan Magda opposite tenor Jonathan Tetelman as Ruggero, an idealistic young man who offers her an alternative to her life of excess. Maestro Speranza Scappucci conducts Nicolas Joël’s Art Deco–inspired staging, which transports audiences from the heart of Parisian nightlife to a dreamy vision of the French Riviera. Soprano Emily Pogorelc and tenor Bekhzod Davronov complete the sterling cast as Lisette and Prunier. It’ll start at 12:55 P.M., with a runtime of 2 hours, 47 minutes. There will be a pre-opera discussion at 12:30 P.M.

Highlands PAC is located at 507 Chestnut Street, and tickets are available at HighlandsPerformingArts.com.

by Mary Adair Trumbly, Highlands Performing Arts Center

Go with Zydeco

With MOJO & The Bayou Gypsies, Highlands Performing Arts Center brings a recommended dose of Zydeco snap and spice to the Plateau –Saturday, May 4.

Mister Mojo

Zydeco music, fun and craziness takes the stage at 7:30 P.M

Saturday, May 4, with MOJO & The Bayou Gypsies. “All-original Mojo music in the Louisiana bayou traditions of pure Americana.

This bayou man, Mister Mojo, and his troupe of near-mad musical provocateurs, have poured Louisiana fire on audiences across the planet for over a quarter century.

“Few performers can lift an audience like Mojo, star of the Bayou Gypsies. None match the unbridled fever this charismatic singer/accordionist brings to the stage,” says Syndicated News Network

Thrilling family audiences worldwide since 1985, MOJO & The Bayou Gypsies have made millions of people happy and enriched the lives of countless children with their Arts Outreach.

Mojo has performed on PBS, ABC, CBS, NBC, Superstation WGN, FOX, and CMT TV Networks. He has produced 23 albums of original Music certified by the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame; he is the

…and his troupe of near-mad musical provocateurs, have poured Louisiana fire on audiences across the planet…

historian who got the Zydeco Rubboard into the Smithsonian Institution; is executive producer of historic documentaries, is an International Music Ambassador for the State of Louisiana and is an active advocate for the Arts working with many of America’s top Arts Agencies as a member, a speaker, and mentor.

Mojo’s music is featured in movies and

commercials, and his song, Lights on the Bayou, is the theme song of the movie, Soldiers Stories, now featured in the new US Army National Museum. He is also the subject of the feature film, Magic Behind the MOJO by Gallo Films, currently on the International Film Festival Circuit. He’s also an actor appearing as a featured star on CMT’s Swamp Pawn, based in the Louisiana Bayous, and star of Swamp Girls Gone Crazy about strong, successful women entrepreneurs from the Bayous!

Tickets are available at HighlandsPerformingArts.com

by Mary Adair Trumbly, Highlands Performing Arts Center

It Takes a Village

(l-r sitting) Aurora Allio, Gemma Mathiowdis, Leela Mathiowdis, Beatrice Long, and Milo Leslie

(l-r standing) Nalicia Allio, Sarah Mathiowdis, Chris Wilkes, Collin Long, and Owen Leslie

PAC Educational Theatre’s production of Oliver! promises family fun onstage and behind the scenes. It’ll be performed April 26 - 28.

When Erik Bishop, Artistic Director of the PAC Educational Theatre’s upcoming production of Oliver!, he envisioned the entire enterprise as a quantum leap beyond the relatively straightforward productions that had been staged before.

Oliver! Is a dynamic musical with an enormous cast, a complex narrative, and lots of singing and dancing. It’s based upon Charles Dicken’s masterful Oliver Twist and tells the story of an orphan struggling to survive the mean streets of

London amidst a troupe of thieves and thugs and pickpockets.

With its large cast of kids and adults, Bishop, with Joi Chapman, Musical Director and Lee Trevathan, Associate Director – had the inspiration to transform the production into a family affair – casting adults and their children into the multi-generational show.

His first decision involved roping his mother, Tanya Bishop, into the roles of production manager and costumer. She’s had years of experience in both roles and an obvious insider’s perspective to her

son’s visions and demands.

With Tanya as his right-hand major domo, he looked around this corner of Western North Carolina/North Georgia for talented parents with equally talented kids who’d be willing to memorize dialogue, lyrics and choreography in a narrow window of rehearsal time.

Fortunately, these mountains proved to have a remarkably deep talent pool, and Oliver! netted five families with the requisite kids and committed parents Devon and Nancy Allio and their daughter Aurora; Sarah Mathiowdis and

daughters Leela Rue and Gemma; Owen Leslie and his son Milo; Colin Long and daughter Beatrice; and Chris Wilkes and his daughter Annie and son Charlie.

“We didn’t have to convince Aurora – she knew she wanted to be in a show, ever since she saw Beauty and the Beast in Franklin,” says mom Nalicia, who plays the beautiful and tragic Nancy. Her husband, Devon, who’s also in HighlandsCashiers Players’ Squabbles (currently playing at Highlands Performing Arts Center), concurred.

“There was no stopping her, once she heard that kids could be part of this show,” he said, watching as Aurora, decked out in orphan garb and sparkly boots for rehearsal, danced onstage and off as she waited for director Bishop to call her ba-ck.

“I think it’ll be fun – it already is,” said Aurora.

For Sarah Mathiowdis, who’s also starring in “Squabbles,” it was equally simple to get her daughters involved.

“I’ve performed with the Cirque Troupe, so I thought this would be equally fun,” said Gemma.

When I remarked that her statements were obviously well-reasoned and constructed with care, Gemma admitted that English was her favorite subject and that she was drawn to the story of Oliver Twist. Her sister Leela Rue said she’s also begun training for Rabun Gap’s Cirque Program – a rigorous battery of lessons in, Spanish web, aerial silks, trapeze, German wheel, aerial lyra, tumbling, and acrobatics.

“I love these (Oliver!) rehearsals, because I get to be onstage and use some

of the things I’ve learned,” she says. Both girls displayed heaps of confidence. That level of cool was mirrored by Milo Leslie, as he waited in the back of the house for his call.

“I’m just a little bit nervous, but not much,” he said.

This marks Milo’s stage debut, though he has the air of a seasoned pro.

“I guess some of my teachers know I’m going to be in the show, maybe some of my friends – I don’t talk much about it,” he admitted. “I like being in this show, but I really like geography.”

“To be honest, I wasn’t really sold on the idea of performing on stage,” says Chris Wilkes. “But my kids, Charlie and Annie, kept bugging me about it and saying that I should play Mr. Bumble. I figured that the window of opportunity to do something like this with my children, before they got too cool to want their dad around, was closing. I was only familiar with Oliver through its most famous songs and lines, so it was only after I accepted that I realized it was a much bigger role than I had anticipated and that – much to my surprise and cold sweating fear –I had to sing. Needless

to say my kids think it’s hilarious.”

And in keeping with the theme of “Family Affair,” let’s turn our attention to the man right in front of the action, the production’s music director, Matt Molesworth. If Bishop is the Daddy of this version, Matt Molesworth is the Fun Uncle.

He’s been a professional piano player and musician for over 30 years. Molesworth has also had the pleasure of teaching 100s of private piano students over the years and is very proud to have enriched their lives and helped so many young people grow with the arts as a major part of their lives.

He and his wife and daughter moved to highlands in October of 2023 and he has thus far also played at the Hummingbird Lounge at Old Edward’s and will be performing at Half Mile Farm soon, he is also teaching several students already. “I’m so thrilled to be in the Highlands area and to work with kids and adults alike for this production of Oliver! I’m just happy I can provide some help for the kids, their families, and the PAC as my own family gets settled in to the area. I’m so excited to meet more folks in music and the arts as I move forward, Highlands has been so very welcoming thus far.”

Oliver! is sponsored in part by the Cullasaja Women’s Outreach, Mountain Findings, Highlands Foundation, and the Forsythe Family Foundation.

Purchase your tickets at highlandsperformingarts.com.

by Luke Osteen

(l-r) Erik Bishop, Aurora and Nalicia Allio

Forty-Third Season

Highlands Cashiers Chamber Music Festival’s 43rd season brings the rhythm back to the mountains with returning artists and rising young talents. For tickets and more information, visit h-cmusicfestival.org or call (828) 526-9060.

Scott Yoo

David Schifrin

Chee Yon

As devotees of the genre know, chamber music is regarded as one of the most rewarding and intimate of all musical forms. It is the private aspect of a concert, the direct connection between musician and listener that dispels any preconceptions about classical music and is why the summer arrival of the HighlandsCashiers Chamber Music Festival is so eagerly awaited.

Discussing the 2024 calendar of performances, William Ransom, the festival’s artistic director for 24 years, noted “The past 42 seasons have brought together artists whose standards of excellence and commitment to chamber music have enriched the creative traditions of Western North Carolina. This season will certainly continue that tradition with another exciting mix of old friends and new faces.”

With a commitment to showcasing the breadth and depth of chamber music rep -

ertoire, this season promises to captivate audiences with more than 20 concerts by remarkable artists over six weeks on stages in Highlands and Cashiers from July 6 through August 11. Music returns to the Highlands PerformingArts Center on Saturdays and Mondays at 5:00 P.M. and the Village Green Commons on Sundays and Tuesdays at 5:00 P.M., but also brings concerts to smaller exquisite venues throughout the community.

Opening the regular season and making his festival debut with works by Beethoven and Brahms is violinist Scott Yoo, known for his role in the PBS show Now Hear This.

Other newcomers include; chamber music brothers of international reputation cellist Andres and violist Roberto Diaz; American String Quartet, the Dover Quartet, hailed as “one of the greatest quartets of the last 100 years by BBC Music Magazine; and multi-Grammy nominated pianist Marta Aznavoorian.

Returning audience favorites include the Viano Quartet, Grammy-winning cellist Zuill Bailey, cellist Sara Sant’Ambrogio, pianist Victor Asuncion, and an encore performance by the Three Graces –Alice Hong, Charae Krueger, and Julie Coucheron. A flight of performances by festival stars will celebrate the conclusion of the season at the Gershon/Cohn Gala and Dinner on August 11.

The season promises even more variety with a host of innovative, fun programs including intimate Salons and Feasts where the audience is only feet away from the performing artists; Family Concerts and Ice Cream Socials, classes with CLE; and an All-Star Brass Quintet at the Bascom, provide unique and extraordinary experiences.

by Marlene Osteen

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A New Season Awaits

Mountain Theatre Company looks to Broadway for the casts and crews of its fabulous 2024 season.

Mountain Theatre Company has returned from their annual spring audition tour!

Executive Artistic Director Scott Daniel and Company Manager Emanuel Carrero traveled to New York City at the end of February to begin to cast MTC’s 2024 Season.

They welcomed over 1,000 professional actors, singers, and dancers to be considered for roles in Mountain Theatre Company’s upcoming productions of Grease, Catch Me If You Can, The Burnt Part Boys, and Home for the Holidays. Callbacks were then hosted for hundreds of these performers as Daniel and Carrero searched to find the very best talent to bring to Highlands and the MTC stage this year.

And that doesn’t include the many video submissions they will also be viewing

from actors across the country.

Daniel and Carrero were joined in New York City by Erin Leigh Knowles, a familiar face to MTC audiences. Knowles led the dance call portion of the auditions, while Daniel and Carrero evaluated not only the talent and form of the dancers, but the speed and accuracy with which they learned the choreography.

MTC is also in search of professional candidates to fill many technical positions in the upcoming theatre season. Candidates will be considered for a variety of roles including costume designers, sound designers, lighting designers, wardrobe supervisors, stage managers, audio engineers, stitchers, painters, and carpenters. These artists will join MTC production teams to bring the world of each show magically to life on stage.

Mountain Theatre Company will contract over 100 professional artists who will travel to Highlands, NC over the course of the 2024 season, making MTC one of the largest employers in Highlands this year.

The cast and creative team of Grease, which opens on June 5, will begin arriving as early as mid-May. As these talented professionals from across the country begin to arrive in town over the coming weeks, be sure to welcome them to the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau!

For tickets and more information about Mountain Theatre Company’s 2024 Season, visit mountaintheatre.com.

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

Get Your Laugh On

The squabbles in Squabbles are animated by love and its ensuing complications – Highlands Performing Arts Center in Highlands April 4-7.

Seated (l-r) Devon Allio and Sarah Mathiowdis, Standing (l-r): Diandra Mundy, Cathy Myers (stage manager), Berney Kirkland, Michael Lanzilotta, Ron Leslie (director), and Ricky Siegel.

Not pictured: Cal Issacs

Squabbles is both a hilarious comedy and a very realistic and insightful portrayal of love and conflict in a multigenerational household. It’s particularly on-point in its portrayal of the viewpoint of younger family members regarding the romantic interests and actions of their parents.

This production marks the first appearance on the Highlands Cashiers Players stage of two wonderfully talented veteran actors – Berney Kirkland and Diandra Mundy, as well as newcomers Devon Allio, Sarah Mathiowdis, and Cal Issacs.

Berney is a veteran of more than 30 productions in Atlanta and the surrounding area, with a range including musicals (South Pacific and The King and I, among others), to the very serious (Wait Until Dark), to tap Dancing (The Mel Street Tap Dancers Troupe).

Diandra has a background in virtually all aspects of acting, having appeared in

movies (Weekend at Bernie’s), television (The Charlie Wedemeyer Story), theater (Man of La Mancha, Oklahoma), and radio (Spokesperson for The Star News).

For Devon, it’s his first time working with the Highlands Cashiers Players, and his first play in Highlands.

“I moved here six years ago with my wife and daughter with the aim of raising our family in a small town surrounded by nature’s beauty,” he says. “I recently took over the General Manager position at The Park on Main hotel. We love the town and look forward to being a part of its future. You’ll see him later this month in Highlands PAC Educational Theatre’s first All-Community production of Oliver!, onstage with his wife Nalicia and daughter Aurora.

Sarah attended Highlands School through the 9th grade, before moving to Hawaii with her family. She chose to relocate here with her husband, Will Mathiowdis, as she considers it to be

an ideal place in which to raise her two daughters. She is the owner of Highlands Plateau Construction Services, a local company specializing in concrete foundation construction.

Also making his HCP stage debut is Cal Issac. Cal is Highlands-Cashiers Hospital HR Director and plays the part of Saul Wasserman, a retired druggist. Other actors appearing in the production are two talented local actors, Michael Lanzilotta and Ricky Siegel.

Both residents and visitors are in for a wonderful evening of live local theater at the Performing Arts Center in Highlands April 4-7. Evening performances are at 7:30 P.M. and the Sunday Matinees are at 2:00 P.M. Cabaret seating is available at HighlandsCashiersPlayers.com.

by Luke Osteen

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Studio Alive

Studio Alive is a generous community of artists and encouragers. Discover for yourself, Mondays at The Bascom.

Let’s toast Expressionist artist Cathy Christy for launching Studio Alive 44 years ago.

If you’re unfamiliar with Studio Alive’s contribution to the Plateau’s visual arts, the group is a weekly figure drawing session for Life Work. It’s currently hosted by The Bascom (special thanks to Billy Love). Through the decades it’s morphed a bit, but its original commitment remains steadfast: Draw from Life. Draw from Your Soul.

Managed by Cindy Vickery and Penny Bradley, sessions meet Mondays (except holidays), 10:00 A.M. through 1:00 P.M. Studio Alive asks participants to arrive by 9:30 A.M. to set-up their spaces. All ages/skill levels interested in life work (live models) are welcome. Minors are invited to sessions when models are clothed. Monday morning sessions attract retirees, but students and artists of varying ages attend, often in the summer.

“In broadening a variety of expressions, we are home to professionally trained artists as well as novices which fill our workspace with a wide range of abilities,” says Cindy Vickery. “This collection of creators are extremely welcoming and supportive for those who may be hesitant to attend or who are just honing their skills. It is a No- judgment zone. Artists embrace newbies and enjoy watching them develop.”

Experienced artists are generous, often extending a critique if requested Attendees can work in any medium. They bring their own materials and surfaces/grounds. Easels are provided. And so is a model, for whom artists must pay a modest charge ($10, clothed; $20, nude). There is no membership fee. Weekly e-mails circulate with info for upcoming sessions.

Cindy and Penny close with a welcoming invitation and these thoughts: “This is a very democratic group without a formal

organizational chart. The health, happiness, and success of our membership depends on the interest and involvement of those attending. Joiners are committed to be present, be involved, and support the mission of the group. Studio Alive is fueled by the passion of those who appreciate the opportunity to create. Outstanding fellowship and friendship are at the core of the organization.”

The Bascom often features Studio Alive work in exhibitions. Cindy adds, “Since many of those featured have artistic interests apart from life work, we have exhibited work from the sessions as well as work outside of the sessions.”

Contact Cindy at csvic@bellsouth.net or Penny at jwptbradley@icloud.com for more information regarding Studio Alive’s participation, modeling, or other queries.

by Donna Rhodes

Crafting Possibility

The Bascom’s Billy Love illuminates the journey of a dazzling year ahead.

There are a few versions of a poem, first penned by the famous poet, “Anonymous,” whose first words are “Spring has sprung…” Spring has indeed sprung in Highlands, evidenced by the announcement of the first meeting of the Art League of HighlandsCashiers’ 2024 season. This free event will be April 29, on The Bascom Terrace.

All are invited to join us at 4:30 P.M. for a wine social, followed by a presentation at 5:00. What better way to kick off the 2024 season than with a tour of the current Bascom exhibitions hosted by Billy Love?

Billy Love is the Deputy Executive Director for Mission and Programs at The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts. An arts educator and non-profit professional, Billy has more than 20 years of experience working at the

intersection of communities, people, and learning. His roles at The Bascom span curatorial, educational, and outreach initiatives, which allow the organization to offer robust visual arts programs

…which allow the organization to offer robust visual arts programs focused on the support of emerging artists…

focused on the support of emerging artists and the building of essential creative and visual literacy skills for youth and adults. His leadership is focused on fostering the artistic capacities of individuals and on engaging with local and regional entities to enhance the creative economy of Western North Carolina.

A muralist and photographer, Billy

received his Bachelors in Studio Art from Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina, and his master’s in art education from Western Carolina University.

Mark your calendars, as this promises to be an enlightening, educational experience, and a wonderful way to welcome spring!

For more information about the Art League and its activities, visit artleaguehighlands-cashiers.com.

by Zach Claxton, Highlands-Cashiers Art League

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photo by Susan Renfro

To Appalachia, with Love

Executive Chef Kalen Fortuna’s lifetime of learning and wise experimentation has brought us Roots & Vine’s extraordinary Love Letter to Appalachia . This new restaurant is located at 490 Carolina Way in Highlands.

When chef-turned restaurateur Curtis Higgins met Executive Chef Kalen Fortuna in the Fall of 2023, it was culinary destiny – a pact to create a tasting tribute to this land and the bounty it provides.

Curtis hails from Colorado, and he brings to Highlands 35 years of food and wine expertise. He opened the popular Main Street restaurant, Primary in 2022 and introduced Roots & Vine to foodies and wine lovers of the Plateau late last year.

Chef Kalen’s journey to the Highlands culinary scene began at an incredibly early age, helping his Lebanese grandmother in her Detroit restaurant. There he learned about plate settings, herbs, and flavors –but especially he learned the importance of heritage and foodways.

Kalen grew up in Charleston, South Carolina, and at the age of sixteen lobbied for a job at Peninsula Grill. He had found his calling. Since then, he has worked for and learned from some of the best chefs

in the Southeast. He eventually became Executive Chef of the award-winning Little Palm Island in the Florida Keys –and 15 years after his first restaurant job in Charleston, became the Executive Chef of Peninsula Grill.

During those years of traveling, Kalen honed his craft to appreciate, incorporate, and depend on the ingredients he found regionally. And he recognized the beauty of slow food.

Which brings us to a mid-March reservation at Roots & Vine. Walking into soft grey hues and warm wood, the ambiance heightened by flickering flames, the feeling of specialness wraps you like a gentle hug.

Our waiter Ken presented the menus – envelope style with a wax seal. It’s a Love Letter to Appalachia – a tasting experience, prix fixe with choices.

You can choose, and if you’re a wine enthusiast, should choose a wine pairing – expertly curated by Curtis – for

each dish’s particular flavors. Swirl. Sip. Repeat. Heaven.

Not only are the ingredients used to create these tasty masterpieces locally sourced from the Appalachian region, but they commissioned local potter Frank Vickery to craft the plate ware. Frank reveals, “This has been a wonderful experience. Chef Kalen had clear ideas. He wanted ware that would visually enhance the food pairings in size, shape, and color. Initially, I presented some ideas, and we worked together to create each piece, experimenting with different glazes, textures, and colors. It has been an honor to be a part of this unique creative process.”

It’s true what they say: You eat with your eyes first. And this concept isn’t lost on Kalen and his staff. Each dish is artfully crafted and lovingly presented.

The meal began with Salted Sweet Honey Rolls house made by Sous Chef Rose Rumpel. This pull-apart goodness, served with cultured butter, blackberry chutney

Steak Tartar

Dry Aged NC Yellowfin Tuna

and sunflower crumble – are all house made. In fact, most every item in each dish is house made with local ingredients. I’ll try not to be repetitive.

On this particular evening (the menu rotates with the local purveyors’ harvests and offerings), Steak Tartar was a first choice. It’s made from wagyu beef tenderloin, with sorghum yolk and foie gras. Sorghum yolk is an egg treatment where the yolk is separated and soaked in sorghum simple syrup. Chef Kalen explains, “it gives the egg a sweet, fudge-y texture – a little tighter and thicker…” So tasty! And these eggs are locally raised at 3 Barn Farm in Franklin.

The Dry Aged North Carolina Yellowfin Tuna is Kalen’s ode to his grandmother with Lebanese treatments of tabli, labneh, and macrona. A dish that is traditionally made with lamb, he chose a North Carolina Yellowfin Tuna that is dry-aged in house. It is a delicious mash-up of his Lebanese heritage and Appalachian training. The dish was paired with a 2021 Longboard Pinot Noir.

“The umami Lebanese flavors complement the smooth and silky tannins and bright fruit of the Pinot Noir,” Curtis

said. “The wine’s red fruit flavors, such as cherry and raspberry, can enhance the dish’s flavors, while its earthy and sometimes spicy notes can add complexity to the overall experience.”

And we concur – with exclamation marks!

We then gleefully chose the Roasted Local Lamb – and it is the height of savory. A heritage breed sirloin cut, it is pipped with ground lamb sausage made with local herbs and then wrapped in caul fat – the epitome of their whole animal philosophy. But let’s talk about carrots, baby. Kalen dry ages local carrots, dips them in wagyu fat, ages again and purees with carrot-infused brown butter. It’s beautiful. It’s delicious. It’s a triumph of old southern flavors in a bold new presentation.

If the sensory feast for the eyes and palate leaves you wanting to pay homage to Chef Kalen, you’ll have that chance when the Wagyu course is presented. Or, more accurately, celebrated.

Chef arrives with a small brown vial as the course is placed before you, from which he christens the dish with a special soy sauce from Kentucky. There really are only two things to say about the Wagyu. One is

cliche, but you’ll probably realize you were using the term incorrectly until now. And that is, melts in your mouth. Literally. The other is flavor, a flavor that defies description, except to say it has a decidedly Asian accent, and that its single raison d’être is to complement this Wagyu.

And finally, the Cream Pie n’ Cider was the dessert of choice. A cinnamon brioche doughnut with apple butter made from local apples, and topped with oatmeal ice cream. It’s an explosion of sweet flavors, spices and textures that marked the ending of a most memorable dining experience. As we begrudgingly headed out to be reunited with reality, Ken handed us another gift – a handmade bar of citrus oil tallow soap. You guessed it, made in-house.

Root & Vine’s Love Letter to Appalachia tantalizes the senses - and touches the heart. Like me, Curtis and Kalen weren’t born on the plateau. But – like me – they’re passionate about highlighting the goodness that’s found here.

by Marjorie N. Deal photos by Susan Renfro

Roasted Local Lamb

Executive Chef Kalen Fortuna and SousChef Rose Rumpel

Cream Pie n’ Cider

Sicilian Wines

There’s magic in the soils surrounding Italy’s storied Mount Etna.

Recently I came across an intriguing question posed by a wine critic – “is White Lotus the new Sideways?”

You may recall that in the second season of the HBO series, set along the scenic bluffs of Taormina, Sicily, we saw some of the main characters dining al fresco, in the region’s volcanic vineyards, sipping Etna Bianco – a local white wine made predominantly from carricante. It’s clear that at the moment wines from Sicily are strutting their mojo. In fact, Sicily, long known for its red wines, has recently been gaining attention for producing the most distinctive and unusual whites in Italy, if not the world. Indeed, the Etna DOC, hugging the eastern flank of its eponymous volcano, remains one of Italy’s most well-known appellations.

What makes them so different is that unlike the wines of the new world with

their characteristic tropical notes, they offer a pronounced savory flavor – in a word, salty. It gives these wines a singular nature found nowhere else. High in acidity and relatively low in alcohol they are racy and refreshing.

“That combination of grape variety, altitude and sandy lava soils is what makes Carricante unique,” says Alessio Planeta of the Planeta Winery (where the HBO scene was shot). “I would imagine the results to be far less interesting in any other territory.”

What’s striking about Sicilian whites is that while there’s a common thread – drinkability and freshness – there’s a lot of variety. Part of that is because of Sicily’s diversity of grapes, and whites made from lesser-known grapes such as grillo and catarratto are also gaining popularity. We’re talking luscious wines with loads of complexity.

Better known for sweet than dry wines,

grillo has been an important constituent of the fortified wine Marsala, but modern drinkers have recently begun recognizing its merits when used to make dry white wines. That’s clearly the case with the 2021 Tenute Orestiadi Grillo. It’s crisp yet full-bodied, offering the florality of orange blossom in the nose and the depth of clay and slate in the finish.

Catarratto, a versatile white grape has been planted in Sicily for thousands of years. Though typically blended with carricante in the Etna DOC, across the island, producers have been mining its full-body, citrus-laden potential as a standalone varietal. A great example can be found in the Feudo Montoni 2021 Sicilia Catarratto Masso with fresh fruit and citrus with honeydew melon and chopped mint or thyme.

by Marlene Osteen

Springtime Feasts

The greening of the Plateau means that Old Edwards Inn & Spa has laced its calendar with exclusive culinary events and delights.

Though you still may be wearing a coat, spring is around the corner, and whether you’re dreaming of baseball or blossoms, one rite of passage of the season is the springtime feasts at Old Edwards.

On the horizon: a duo of guest chef shindigs–happy evenings full of conversation, camaraderie, and cuisine; nights certain to reward you for having gotten through the drudgery of winter.

Chef of the evening on Sunday, April 14 is Craig Richards of Atlanta’s Lyla

Lila. Billed as “Vinyl Vibes, An Italian Springtime Feast” it’s both a collaboration with Old Edwards’ Executive Chef Chris Huerta and a nod to the musicallycurated dinners Richards stages at his popular neighborhood gathering spot in the heart of Midtown.

“Great music always elevates a dining experience,” he explained.

To the sounds of a DJ spinning discs and the music of jazz and soul and new wave artists, Richards will showcase the Southern Mediterranean-focused

dishes that he describes as “honest,” and that Forbes Magazine deemed “hedonistic.”

The menu: a delectable mix of new dishes; “Snapper crudo – a dish created just for this event as is the lamb entrée,” and the classics, because “it wouldn’t be a Lyla Lila event without our duck lasagna.”

A disciple of the grand matriarch of Italian cuisine, Lydia Bastianich, Richards has spent his career mastering the craft of pasta making and refining a

Chris Huerta and Craig Richards

personal style of cookery that he defines as, “Italian in spirit and technique, but with an expanded pantry.”

He lifts to new heights a grandmotherly dish like lasagna by layering it with duck; and elevates a traditional dish of ravioli by stuffing it with wagyu beef and truffle. The excellence and creativity of his cooking have not gone unnoticed. Among his many accolades are inclusion in the 2021 New York Times Restaurant List, and recognition as, “one of the top restaurants in Atlanta” by The Atlantan.

In 2022, he was nominated a semifinalist by the James Beard Foundation for Best Chef Southeast and in 2022 and

2023, Lyla Lila was nominated for Outstanding Wine Program.

On Sunday, May 5, Chef Terry Koval, the wizard who presides over the stoves at Atlanta’s The Deer and The Dove will showcase the specialties that earned him a 2023 James Beard Best Chef Award. Koval is well known in Atlanta for his ardent support of the “slow food movement” and frequent use of locally grown and foraged ingredients.

With that philosophy in mind, he thoughtfully composes dishes made up of in-season vegetables and foraged ingredients; beef and pork from nearby cattle and pig farms, and game meat entrées,

like crispy rabbit legs fried in fermented buttermilk, duck sausage roulade, and plates of venison.

The recognition, earned for his cooking and dedication to the Georgia farmers who grow his ingredients, was as one observer noted, “a long time coming.”

In the past two decades, Koval’s culinary career has taken him to California and back to Georgia, where he worked at Canoe in Buckhead, Farm Burger, and for many years at Wrecking Bar Brew in Little Five Points.

Book online at OldEdwardsHospitality. com/ChefDinners

by Marlene Osteen

Terry Koval

A Walking Box of Chocolates

A designer’s aesthetic observation and a irrepressibly cheerful dog led to this month’s recipe.

Skylar and Tricia Smith

This month’s recipe is the product of my Tricia’s culinary imagination and the notions of two local institutions.

Let me explain – when Tricia and I tumbled out of the far end of the Covid Threat, we knew a visit to the CashiersHighlands Humane Society would net us a barking, tail-thumping companion to brighten our household.

Somehow, awaiting our arrival was Skylar, a two-year-old blue-eyed Catahoula Leopard Dog who’d been a CHHS resident for about a year.

We happily adopted her and she immediately became a relentlessly playful part of the household.

One morning, as we were walking Skylar around downtown Highlands, we encountered Dutchman’s Casual Living Store’s Stephanie Bramble, setting up her sidewalk display.

Amid our conversation, Stephanie

paused, glanced at Skylar’s distinctive Catahoula coat, flashed her dazzling grin (which could melt deep-frozen Bridal Veil Falls on the second week of January), and proclaimed, “That dog looks like a walking box of chocolates or an ice cream sundae.”

Of course, Stephanie was correct –Skylar’s coat is a crazy patchwork of colors – dark chocolate, milk chocolate, caramel, and pure white chocolate.

Well, that offhand remark got Tricia thinking – She dusted off an old recipe that had been rattling around her recipe box and added some chocolatey 21st century twists.

So here you go – Skylar Pie. Enjoy. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Melt a stick of unsalted butter in a large microwave-safe bowl.

Crush up enough pretzels and graham crackers to get a cup of each. Then in that large bowl with the melted butter,

toss in the crushed pretzels and graham crackers, as well as one cup of pecan pieces and once cup of shredded coconut.

Add a 1/3 cup of dark chocolate chips, 1/3 cup of milk chocolate chips, 1/3 cup of white chocolate chips, and one cup of caramel chips. Pour in a 14-ounce jar of sweet condensed milk, then mix the filling until everything is evenly combined.

Pour the mix into a frozen pie crust. It will seem overfull, but don’t worry, it will shrink during the baking process. Just make sure to press down the filling so it’s even on the top and firmly in place inside the pie crust.

Bake the pie for 35 minutes in the oven. Once finished, let it cool for 30 minutes before slicing.

by Luke Osteen

Made for Fun and Gatherings

Slabtown Pizza’s 10th Anniversary is a milestone worth celebrating. Its success is built upon a simple formula, unwavering over the decade.

Jon Caddell and Brien Peterkin,Jr.

When Marjorie suggested that we include an article about Slabtown Pizza’s 10-year anniversary in this issue, I was astonished – 10 years?! How is that possible?

On one hand it feels like the place has been in operation forever – that’s how confidently it’s woven itself into the fabric of life of not only Slabtown, but all of southern Jackson County.

But still, it always has the thrum and excitement of a place that’s just opened its doors, even a decade in.

Here’s what I wrote about a visit all those years ago:

“Slabtown Pizza is made for fun gatherings of buddies. There’s not an ounce of pretension in the place and it boasts an enclosed porch that allows lively conversations to flourish. It was perfect for us, especially since several of us chose to indulge in the carefully constructed beer list. We weren’t rowdy,

but at times we were borderline raucous. Fortunately for me, my table and ultimately you, Slabtown delivers the pizza. And the calzones. And everything else on the menu.

Their pizza dough is made fresh daily and hand-tossed when you order. These are guys who are serious about their craft. They don’t make your choices easy, either – choose Sunday Gravy, Red, White, Pesto, Vodka, or Olive Oil as your base sauce.”

See how the seduction was subtle and irresistible? Good food, good times –that’s a pretty simple formula, yet so rarely successful.

Then, three years ago, once Covid had slipped away yet remained in the shadows, I once again called upon Slabtown Pizza. Once more, they held up their end of the bargain – good food, good times:

Two-and-a-half hours ago, struck by

physical exhaustion and sudden realization that I’d read the same paragraph three times without it registering.

So, it makes sense that in this most dire hour, I’ve turned to the blessed kitchen of Slab Town Pizza, for sustenance, relief, and a stolen moment of solace and contentment.

Salvation in a Pizza Pie. Incredible. To determine whether those observations were still valid, Tricia and I recently invited a tableful of friends for a meal and conversation and a test of its clever bar.

And there it was – a table laden with impeccable pizza and fun salads and carefully constructed adult beverages. And conversation interrupted with sudden bursts of laughter.

Thanks, Slabtown Pizza, and Happy Birthday! Keep the ovens fired up and the bar staffed.

by Luke Osteen

TCashiers Burger Week

Cashiers Burger Week is a weeklong celebration of the Glorious Burger, April 29-May 5.

he Cashiers community is serving up a carnivore’s delight this month with the second annual Cashiers Burger Week.

The idea for this week stemmed from Justin Smith, the general manager at Whiteside Brewing and he recruited Thomas Taulbee and me to help bring it to fruition. The idea was to create a fun, community event that gave locals the opportunity to check out restaurants they may not have been to before or hadn’t been to in a while.

It was also intended to be a way to help boost business for local restaurants, intentionally set during the “shoulder season” time when business is a bit slower. That goal was surely accomplished last year!

The buzz around town leading up and during burger week was amazing. Conversations could be overheard of different strategies, questions of which burger had been tried yet, and which is going to be the next.

How does Cashiers Burger Week work? Each participating restaurant will create

a unique burger to highlight during the week. Burger Tasters will pick up a Burger Week Passport at the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce, present their passport when they order a burger and the participating restaurant will stamp the passport.

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

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

Last year’s winners for Favorite Burger were First Place, Native Prime Provisions; Second Place, Hidden Valley Tavern; Third Place, a tie between Slopeside Tavern and Happ’s Place Barn & Grill. The winners of Most

Creative Burger were First Place, a tie between Slopeside Tavern and Whiteside Brewing; Second Place, The Ugly Dog-Cashiers; and Third Place, Native Prime Provisions.

Can’t wait to see what creative juices flow this year and who will be the 2024 Winners!

Passports will be available for pick up only at the Cashiers Area Chamber, located at 202 US-64, starting mid-April. Passports are free but required to participate. For your vote to count, you must return your passport to the Cashiers Area Chamber.

Check out the website cashiersburgerweek.com for a list of participating restaurants and sponsors. You can follow Cashiers Burger Week on Social Media for updates as well.

Start your diets now so you’re ready for 2024 Cashiers Burger Week!

by Ann Novitske, Whiteside Brewing Company

Bringing France to Highlands

By her own telling Highlands Falls’ resident Julie Murphy has been a “wineo and Francophile” since a 2015 birthday trip to France. Inevitably, she fell head over heels in love with the country.

And so it happened that 10 days after returning to the US, she was back in France. Charged with purpose, she enrolled in a French language immersion school in Sancerre and spent the next year trying out her newfound language skills on area winemakers. In due course, she gained a profound understanding of and passion for wine, and French cuisine.

In 2016, back in the US after a year in France, she was wooed into the wine

industry – working for a wine importer. After a while, she launched a communications consulting company. In her spare time, she co-led wine trips to France.

In the years since, during regular trips back to France, Murphy continued to cultivate relationships in the wine and culinary world. Including, and most importantly connecting with Chef Katherine Frelon. Frelon, who owns a bakery in Flavigny (the locale of the movie Chocolat) also offers cooking classes in Burgundy’s wine region.

In 2023 Murphy was at last able to satisfy a long-time desire and with like-minded friends booked a week-long culinary course at Frelon’s luxury farmhouse in the tiny village of Marigny

Le Cahouet – halfway between Dijon and Chablis.

Gathering many of their ingredients from their local markets, the classic Burgundy cooking Murphy learned at Frelon’s La Ferme de la Lochere was seasonality at its best. It was an experience she wanted to replicate.

Thus, an idea was spawned – to host a dinner in Highlands where others could catch the same exquisite flavors she had experienced.

On an unseasonably warm evening in February, in Murphy’s home high in the hills, atop the Highlands Plateau, 18 guests clustered in the dining room as Frelon prepared a procession of courses

French Chef Katherine Frelon takes her culinary magic across the sea.

to evoke the fond memories of meals prepared at her farmhouse.

Fittingly, the menu was designed to showcase the timeless cuisine of Burgundy, with dishes created to reflect the classic French desire to preserve the full flavors of each food.

As guests arrived, and the sun began its descent, champagne Daniel Dumont was poured in companion with light-as-air gougere (tiny cheese puffs), along with fried ricotta cakes topped with a yogurt and mint jelly. While Murphy introduced her companions to Frelon and talked about the wine pairings, plates of sauteed scallops arranged on a bed of asparagus with a green pea coulis were served. Duck breast with Cointreau and orange elicited songs of praise, and the dauphinoise potatoes with fresh spinach were

exquisitely homey. The final course, a black forest gateau. was a belt-stretching delight, described by guest and Laurel Magazine publisher Marjorie Deal as “visually gorgeous and a perfect end to the evening.”

The wine list, both an oenophile’s dream, and the perfect complement to the menu, featured a selection from the wineries of Murphy’s friends and smaller wine producers.

Reflecting on the evening, Murphy observed that, “My aim was to bring a bit of the personal, intimate experience I had in France with Katherine and these wine producers to my home in Highlands – and to share it with my guests. It was such a pleasure to pair Katherine’s authentic French cooking with the Dumont, Seguinot and Plou wines. Over

those few hours, sitting around the table, eating, and drinking, they got to feel just a smidge of what keeps me going back for more. Mission accomplished.”

Epilog: Katherine Frelon has agreed to return to Highlands for another dinner during Highlands Food & Wine –November 7-10, 2024. Stay tuned for details.

For more information visit 7yearsoffrench.com and katherinefrelon.com.

All recipes served at dinner – and much more – are available in Frelon’s cookbook, Shop, Cook, Eat. by Marlene Osteen

Chef Katherine Frelon

CASHIERS, NC

Buck’s Coffee Cafe - (828) 743-9997

Cashiers Valley Smokehouse - (828) 547-2096

Chile Loco - (828) 743-1160

Cornucopia Restaurant - (828) 743-3750

El Manzanillo - (828) 743-5522

On the Side BBQ - (828) 743-4334

Native Prime Provisions (828) 743-3743

Subway - (828) 743-1300

Ugly Dog - (828) 743-3000

Whiteside Brewing Company - (828) 743-6000

FRANKLIN, NC

Papa’s Pizza - (828) 369-9999

GLENVILLE, NC

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

HIGHLANDS, NC

Asia House - (828) 787-1680

Black Bear Cafe - (828) 482-7020

The Blue Bike Cafe - (828) 526-9922

Bryson’s Deli - (828) 526-3775

Divine South Baking Company - (828) 421-2042

Dusty’s - (828) 526-2762

El Azteca - (828) 526-2244

Fressers Courtyard Cafe - (828) 526-4188

Highlands Smokehouse - (828) 526-3554

Highlands Tavern - (828) 526-9002

Madison’s Restaurant - (828) 787-2525

Mountain Fresh - (828) 526-2400

Paoletti’s - (828) 526-4906

The Ruffed Grouse - (828) 526-2590

The Secret Garden - (828) 305-7509

Spinx Highlands - (828) 526-4191

The Stubborn Seed - (828) 200-0813

Subway - (828) 526-1706

Wild Thyme Gourmet - (828) 526-4035

LAKE TOXAWAY, NC

Grand Olde Station - (828) 966-4242

Los Vaqueros - (828) 966-7662

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

Villa Amato (828) 885-7700

SAPPHIRE, NC

The 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

Plateau Lodging Guide

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

Pebble

Silver

FRANKLIN,

GLENVILLE,

Innisfree

Mountain

- (828) 743-7614

- (828) 743-0623

HIGHLANDS, NC

200 Main - (855) 271-2809

Berkshire Realty

Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-1717

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

Fairview House - (866) 526-8008

Half Mile Farm - (855) 271-7246

Highlander Mountain House - (828) 526-2590

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

Highlands Inn - (828) 526-9380

Highlands Inn Lodge - (828) 526-5899

Highlands Resort Rentals - (828) 526-5839

The Inn at Mill Creek - 828-526-9999

Lotts of Sky - (404) 395-4000

Lullwater House - (423) 488-2799

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

Park on Main - (800) 221-5078

Ray’s Roost - (678) 534-6870

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

Rockwood Lodge - (828) 526-8919

Silver Creek Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-2999

- (828) 743-2946

- (828) 743-6875

Valentine Manor - (561) 613-1496

The Wells Hotel - (828) 482-7736

Whiteside Cove Cottages - (828) 526-2222

SAPPHIRE, NC

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

Foxhunt at Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-7667

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

Mt Toxaway

Lodge & Motel - (828) 966-4582

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

Whispering Falls - (352) 470-4085

Woods at Buc - (770) 714-9211

SCALY MOUNTAIN, NC:

Fire Mountain - (800) 775-4446

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

LAKE TOXAWAY, NC

Cabins at Seven Foxes - (828) 877-6333

Earthshine Lodge - (828) 862-4207

Greystone Inn - (828) 966-4700

Lake Toxaway Realty Company - (828) 508-9141

Pages 146-151

photo by Mary Gillan

FOR HEARTH AND HEART

This mid-century modern fireplace chair features top grain leather and a solid wood frame. The tufted design and soft supple feel will add additional warmth and luxury to your hearth … and heart.

Leather Fireplace Tufted Chair | $ 2695

ACP Interiors | Highlands

MISTY BLUES

Mountain sun can swiftly turn to mist. Treat yourself to easy-carry, classic rainwear for those Plateau weather-shifts. Saint James rain jacket in powder blue is so stylish, you might just wear it as an everywhere topper – rain or shine. Add the beautiful striped shirt and scarf for a stunning ensemble.

Saint James Rain Jacket $ 269 | Saint James Striped Shirt $119

Scarf | $ 35

Wit’s End | Highlands

Plateau Picks

A few of our favorite things

TAIL-WAGGING TREATS

Surprise your best friend and load up on these tail-wagging treats – like chicken chips, a birthday cake mix or Woof Gang’s own dog treats. Put the WOW in bow-wow.

Woof Gang Treats $ 8 99 | Doggie Birthday Cake Mix $ 20

Chicken Chips Treat | $ 49

Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming | Cashiers

SOMETHING TO TALK ABOUT

Bazaar Barn is a hub for amazing discoveries and furnishings – eclectic is the new classic. This vintage Javan Sugar Crusher will make a marvelous conversation piece for a living area, covered porch/patio, or man-cave.

Sugar Cane Crusher | $1,125

Bazaar Barn | Cashiers

DESIGN

Feed them and they will come… and sing! Here’s a welcoming piece to bring beautiful artwork to any landscape. It’s durable, easy-to-install, and a colorful addition to your out-terior design.

Colorful Yard Post | $ 74 99

Bird Barn and Garden | Cashiers

PERSONALIZED DESIGN

This leather and fabric combo sofa group is dressed to thrill. Get creative by combining 100% top grain leathers with embossed leather and fabric for a personalized design. Carolina Rustic Furniture, coupled with your own personal design choices, are a thriller-killer, combination.

Omnia Cartwright Sofa Group | starting at $ 7,799

Carolina Rustic Furniture | Cashiers

A COLORFUL STATEMENT

Create your summer statement with this colorful top and matching skort. Ikbul’s versatile fabric and classy look adapt to just about any function, from shopping to croquet to dining. Built-in sun-protection and patented cooling technology give you a crisp, comfortable look and feel all day long.

Ibkul Zip Mock Neck Shirt $100 | Ibkul Skort $ 45

Elena’s | Highlands

ACTIVELY COMFORTABLE

Sun’s out and outdoors are in! Enjoy nature time clothed in comfort. Vuori’s tees, hoodies, joggers, shorts and cropped tanks are so super soft they feel like a soothing second skin.

Vuori Active Wear | $ 58- $ 98

Highland Hiker | Highlands & Cashiers

The Go-To Boutique

Owner Becki Bryson and Manager Susanna Petrone

Allison Diane Clothing’s ethically-created offerings are a playful mixture of the stylish and the sensible, with a dash of whimsy added to the mix.

For more information, visit allisondianeclothing.com or call (828) 526-5404.

At the intersection of Main and North 4th Street, down a corridor lit with “fairy lights,” sits Allison Diane Clothing – a hidden gem tucked away in Bryson’s Corner, adjacent to Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty.

Owner Becki Bryson opened her airy light-filled storefront in 2018 with the goal to promote brands with an easygoing lifestyle.

Since then, Allison Diane has become a

go-to boutique for all things effortless, offering a curated collection of chic womenswear, unique jewelry, and a diverse array of leather goods.

Step inside and you’ll discover a store stocked with whimsical and wonderful things you never knew you needed – until now. You’re likely to want everything! Whether you’re seeking a statement piece for a special date (their motto is “Dress like you’re famous”), hunting for a gift that will impress your

Gen-Z niece, your sporty 60-year-old boss, your entire chat group of friends or your extremely picky mom, you’ve come to the right place.

Susanna Petrone, the store manager since its inception, has a keen eye for brands – conscious of their impact on the world we live in. Brands like Able, whose line of products include denim jackets, and jewelry made by hand in the company’s Nashville studio, employing women who have triumphed over adversity.

A woman-owned company, Able is committed to ethical production, and provides high quality jobs, and living wages to women worldwide.

Petrone’s personal favorite is the in-house line by local designer Maggie Dearth, produced in small batches right here in Highlands. Dearth’s collection pays homage to local, sustainable craftsmanship, featuring t-shirts and caps adorned with Highlands’ landmarks, like the waterfalls and trails of Whiteside, Glen Falls, and Sunset Rock, each with slogans like “Highlands is where I find my peace of mind and feed my soul.”

Given that Highlands is in a rainforest,

all local dwellers practically need rain coats; emotionally, it’s nice if they look as cool as in the Ciao Milano coats and jackets that the store stocks. As their website declares, “We believe that putting on a coat or jacket in rain should not be a burden, but an enjoyable excuse to wear your favorite outerwear rain jacket.”

And the discoveries don’t end there— explore their selection of trendy shoes from brands like the Charleston Shoe Company and timeless cashmere pieces. Plus, they’ve recently added a range of clothing for petites.

Renowned for their attentive customer

service and thoughtful touches, including complimentary mimosas, Petrone emphasizes, “We strive for exceptional customer service: we love to have fun with our customers and enjoy the time we spend with them.”

You can contact Allison Diane at allisondianeclothing.com or call (828) 526-5404, but you owe it to yourself to give the boutique a careful browse. by Marlene Osteen photos by Susan Renfro

On the Shores of Cashiers Lake

With an expansive new location on the shore of Cashiers Lake, Brookings Anglers, offers the same level of wise, personal attention and quality merchandise – now with refreshments!

Matt Canter with shop mascotMaggie

Matt Canter, the owner of Brookings Anglers in both Cashiers and Highlands, has been guiding fly-fishers and armchair anglers in the pages of this magazine for years.

Around the Plateau, Brookings has been known as the area’s quintessential fly shop, outfitter, and guide service for anglers who want to experience the best in Western North Carolina’s fly fishing. His mission got a little easier this year with the opening of a new store in Cashiers, naturally overlooking Cashiers Lake.

The new location on 88 Cashiers Lake Road is a beautifully built timber frame building using reclaimed barn timbers from Wisconsin. The exterior finishes are a combination of “mushroom wood” and reclaimed timbers.

“The setting is absolutely everything we dreamed of, being on the shore of scenic

Cashiers Lake makes it a place you just want to hang out,” says Matt. “That’s exactly why we decided to incorporate the ‘Blue Line Bar’ as part of the business model. We expect the ‘Blue Line’ to be a popular hangout spot to grab a cold beer after a guided fishing trip, or enjoy a glass of wine and the breeze off the lake on a warm summer day.

So now, Brookings encompasses four categories of business: 1) Fly Shop / Retailer 2) Guided Fly Fishing Trips 3) Destination Travel Worldwide 4) The Blue Line Bar.

“We cannot wait to see you and show you around our new home,” Matt says. They offer the best in fly fishing equipment and apparel, as well as guided fly-fishing trips with one of their experienced guides who know their craft inside and out and can tailor a personalized trip that you won’t soon forget.

Full and half-day wade trips are available

for groups or individuals. Brookings also has private water options that ensure a solitary experience in pursuit of trophy trout. They also do full-day float trips for trout and smallmouth bass, combining the thrill of fishing with the relaxation of a float down the river.

If you are new to the sport of fly fishing, Brookings offers full-day fly fishing schools covering the fundamentals of the sport. You’ll learn the basics of casting, knot tying, where to look for trout, and basic fly selection, followed by an afternoon on a trout stream practicing your newfound skills.

Brookings also offers an extensive selection of quality clothing for men and women from names such as Patagonia, Simms, Orvis, and Columbia.

Discover more at brookingsonline.com.

by Luke Osteen

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WEST END

1. On The Verandah Restaurant

3. High Country Wine & Provisions

5. The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts

6. The Bascom Shop

7. The Dave Drake Ceramic Barn at The Bascom

SOUTH END

25. 4118 Kitchen & Bar

27. Dauntless Printing

37. Lupoli Construction

38. Allen Tate/Pat Allen Realty Group

39. Highlands Decorating Center

45. Don Leon’s

48. ACP Home Interiors

50. The Summer House

51. Nancy’s Fancys/ The Exchange

60. Divine South Baking Company

MAIN STREET

101. Main Street Nursery

104. Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center

106. Los Vaqueros

124. Landmark Realty

128. Primary Kitchen + Bar

134. The Southern Way

136. Dutchmans

141. Main Street Gifts

146. Wit’s End Shoppe

147. Calders Coffee Cafe

148. Highlands Fine Art & Estate Jewelry + Wine Shop

152. Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty

153. Allison Diane Clothing

158. C. Orrico

160. TJ Bailey for Men

163. Spoiled Rotten

166. Annawear

167. The Christmas Tree

169. Country Club Properties

170. Highlands Pizza Place

175. Monkee’s

180. Bijou

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

203. Country Club Properties

208. Highland Hiker Shoes

210. Creative Concepts Salon

211. Highland Hiker

WRIGHT SQUARE on MAIN (Factoid: Named after Whiteside hero)

114. Edward Jones

117. Country Club Properties, Wright Square Office

ON THE HILL

303. Mirror Lake Antiques

306. Acorns

308. Highlands Burrito

310. McCulley’s

312. The Ugly Dog Public House

313. Old Edwards Inn

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

319. Lakeside Restaurant

SPRING VILLAGE

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 Hideaway at The High Dive

711. Roots & Vine

712. Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals

NORTH END

815. Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival

815. Highlands-Cashiers Players

815. Highlands Performing Arts Center

815. Mountain Theatre Company

OUT NC 106

➡ Peak Experience

➡ Highlands Outpost

➡ Highlands Aerial Park

➡ Vineyard at High Holly

➡ Fire + Water/Fire Mountain

➡ Sky Valley Country Club

OUT 64 EAST

➡ Black Rock Design Build

➡ Berkshire Hathaway

Homes Services

Meadows Mountain Realty

➡ WHLC

➡ Highlands Lawn & Garden

➡ High Camp

➡ Highlands Rock Yard

➡ Mission HealthHighlands Cashiers Hospital

➡ Allen Tate/ Pat Allen Realty Group

➡ Highlands Dermatology

➡ Roman’s Roofing

VISIT FRANKLIN

➡ The Attic Antiques

➡ Diva’s on Main

➡ Highlander Roofing

➡ Market Square

Emporium Patisserie

➡ Southern Belles Glamping

➡ Uptown Gallery

➡ Whistle Stop Depot

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

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

Visit Our Advertisers

NORTH 107

2. Zookeeper Bistro

6. Slab Town Pizza

16. Stork’s - Wrap. Pack. Ship.

19. The Look Boutique

21. Sashay Around Ladies Boutique

THE SHOPS AT CASHIERS COMMONS

22. Joan Anderson Interiors

25. Bella Ctn.

27. Bird Barn & Garden

28. Cashiers Kitchen Co.

30. Bombshell Hair Boutique

31. The Watershed Shoppe

33. Zoller Hardware

AT THE CROSSROADS

37. Landmark Realty Group

CHESTNUT SQUARE

43. A Jones Company

45. Cashiers Valley Real Estate

47. Lehotsky & Sons, Builders

54. Mountain Home Consignments

55. Fusion Yoga & Wellness

55. The Bungalow Boutique

59. Las Margaritas

EAST 64

62. Laurel Terrace: - Natural Element Homes

63. Alexander Gardens: - Victoria’s Closet - Victoria’s Closet Shoes & Purses - Vic’s for Men

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

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VILLAGE WALK

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SOUTH 107

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DOWN 107 NORTH ➡

DOWN 107 SOUTH

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VISIT

Cashiers, NorthCarolina

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Gorges State Park

The pristine beauty of Gorges State Park conceals the evidence of an earthshattering disaster over 100 years ago.

An oft-untapped outdoor adventure treasure lies just southeast of Sapphire: Gorges State Park.

Considered an infant state park due to its official public opening in 2009, it is no less significant than the many multidecade parks throughout this great state. However, the story of how it came to be and what it offers to day and overnight visitors is worthy of attention.

Gorges State Park’s origins were spurred by a manmade disaster more than a century ago. In August 1916, the dam holding back North Carolina’s largest

private lake at the time – Lake Toxaway – failed. The resulting water that rushed southward left 15-20-foot debris piles, some of which remain today.

Historic Toxaway includes this information about the event: “Five billion gallons of water rushed over the falls and into the gorge below, with a force that uprooted trees and tumbled boulders as large as 60 feet long end over end (the resulting scour to bedrock is still in evidence at the falls today). The power plant was swept away, and in a matter of hours, the big lake was no more.”

Miraculously, there were no human casualties. The Greensboro Daily News on Aug. 16, 1916, published an account, which included: “Now Toxaway, lake and dam, are gone. Some chroniclers say the waters went out with a roar. Some say the dam just crumbled and crumpled, and the lake slid down the narrow gorge without any especial demonstration. There was no tragedy, no Johnstown (Pennsylvania, historic dam break and flood, 1889), and little devastation.”

However, the resulting effect on the landscape was that much more granite

rock was exposed.

In fact, located in Transylvania County near the tripoint where North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia meet, the area features plummeting waterfalls, rocky river gorges, and lofty stone precipices. Conservation studies were called for after the dam break and eventually, by 1982, 275 acres of the interesting landscape was placed on the North Carolina Registry of Natural Heritage Areas.

Gradually, a state park developed. What water from a broken dam did to alter an already beautiful landscape and wilderness can now be enjoyed for perpetuity. The park is situated in what

is deemed the Blue Ridge Escarpment, which spans more than 8,000 acres of temperate, biodiverse rainforest. For anyone who enjoys waterfalls, Gorges has 26 of them.

Hikers have access to 56 miles of trails, while mountain bikers are challenged by 17 miles of trails. A detailed park map on the park’s website – at https:// www.ncparks.gov/maps/gorges-statepark-map/open - shows the outdoor recreation opportunities.

Plus, 14 of the trails are listed on AllTrails, a phone app, and can be downloaded ahead of time to make it easy to stay on the trail and track progress. Each hike and its length and

difficulty is also conveniently listed on the park’s website.

Choose everything from the “moderate” almost two miles roundtrip Bearwallow Falls Trail via the Bearwallow Valley Trail that includes a viewing platform to the more “strenuous” three-miles round trip to Rainbow Falls Trail that enables hikers to view – as one might expect – an imposing waterfall.

Enjoy exploring one of this area’s most beautiful and often untapped outdoor resources by taking a drive to Gorges.

by Deena Bouknight

Get Your Hot Buns

Charlie’s Hot Buns are a touch of magic in the morning or throughout the day. Find out for yourself at locations throughout the Plateau or at charlieshotbuns.com.

Charlie Hudson is trained as a physicist and when you look back at his career in the food industry, it describes an arc that would make a mathematician smile – professional chef for 30+ years in restaurants, resort hotels, country clubs, food trucks, teaching culinary school, research and development for a commercial trout operation and consulting for discerning chefs.

And that clear path has led him to Charlie’s Hot Buns, his bustling new bunnery/bread boîte/doughnut desmesne in Sapphire.

In a way, the location has an air of inevitability – Charlie has roots in this part of the mountain – having lived here full-time since 2018 and spending plenty of time on extended visits throughout his life, and his wife’s family have been here since the late 1800s.

And the location gives his offerings a unique, homemade flavor. “We carry locally roasted coffee from Pisgah Roasters, so -

das from Devil’s Foot Brewing in Asheville, and I use honey from a local beekeeper out of Sylva, Honey Mountain Bee Farm, in the Honey Orange Glaze,” he says. “We have also received a tremendous amount of support from our friends and neighbors in making Charlie’s Hot Buns a reality. We have a neighbor who is a graphic designer and she designed our logo and t-shirts. Other friends and neighbors helped us with business numbers and development of the name “Charlie’s Hot Buns.” But above all else, I owe huge gratitude to my wife Sally for supporting me in this venture.”

Of course, at the center of all this, are dozens and dozens of his exclusive Charlie’s Hot Buns, enormous confections embiggened to a size that we’ve all secretly wished for.

“Made with love and care, these buns are freshly baked to perfection, filling the air with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and sugar,” Charlie says. “You can dip or spread the Honey Orange Glaze on Charlie’s Hot Bun.”

Charlie Hudson

You can order these creations online at charlieshotbuns. com (allow 24 hours’ notice) and pick them up at his Sapphire shop, or you can find them at Crossroads Custard in Cashiers, Cashiers Farmers Market (in season), Native Prime Provisions at Ingles Shopping Center in Cashiers, and High Country Wine and Provisions in Highlands. And doughnuts sporadically pop up on the bill of fare at his Sapphire location (18825 Rosman Highway in Sapphire), and his marvelous breads and, in particular, exquisite yeast rolls.

In fact, when you consider the vast array of goods produced, you marvel that this man has time to sleep: Original Charlie’s Hot Buns; Jumbo Cinnamon Buns with a honey orange glaze; Yeast Rolls; Sesame Slider Buns; Sesame Hamburger Buns; Focaccia, Sesame Cocktail Crackers. And in development – not always guaranteed to have them at the shop – Doughnuts (Cinnamon Sugar, Chocolate Ganache, Honey Orange Glaze), Croissants, Croibun (a Cinnamon Bun made with croissant dough); Bagels, and Sourdough Boules.

by Luke Osteen

HISTORY

Footsteps of Generations

With a full calendar of events and activities, Cashiers Historical Society

is making a bit of history itself.

For all dates and information, check out CHS at cashiershistoricalsociety.org.

Have you noticed that every year, once March is over some sort of switch goes on and all around there are signs of spring. The traffic begins to pick up, local businesses are organizing their new merchandise, the sun sets after 5:00 P.M. and so on.

And while the winter chill may linger, it’s this time of the year Cashiers Historical Society begins their new season. So, Bring on Spring and the 2024 CHS Season!

In 1996, a group of interested residents met to discuss the formation of a Cashiers Valley Historical Society. Since the formation of CHS, the Society has planned activities and events that foster knowledge and appreciation of the history and traditions through hands-on activities, engaging speakers, traditionbearing performers, and historical accurate demonstrations.

This year’s activities began with the continuation of Heritage Apple Day

and the Mountain Heritage Lecture Series in coordination with the Friends of the Library.

The lecture series began in February and will continue through the summer. A special lecture will be April 10. To celebrate Earth Month there will be an exclusive screening by the American Chestnut Foundation! Join CHS, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust and the Friends of the Library in watching Clear Day Thunder: Rescuing the American Chestnut. The showing will begin at 4:00 P.M. at the Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library. Additional lectures will be each month May-August.

Activities continue in May with the fourth lecture and during Memorial Day weekend with a summer exhibit and the third annual Airing of the Quilts. There is no lack of quilting inspiration in the Cashiers area, so expect to see a variety of quilts exhibited by local and regional quil-

ters. Additional annual events include the 19 Jan Wyatt Symposium on June 20, and in August, CHS will once again present the Cashiers Designer Showhouse.

Children’s events and activities are many and make up the last quarter of the year with a focus on the local children. Founders Day for area third and fourth graders will be celebrated September 26, Art in the Park for fifth and sixth graders will be October 4 and 11. The popular children’s event Christmas at Col. John’s Cabin will be November 29 through December 15.

Once again CHS has a full calendar with many unique events and programs that invite you to discover all that CHS has to offer. Experience the events, historical buildings, and grounds.

by Sandi Rogers, Cashiers Historical Society

How to Build a Park

With 10 years of continuous usage by the Highlands community, the vision that led to Kelsey-Hutchinson Founder’s Park has proved just as clear as its namesakes’ bold plan to create a town in the Southern Appalachians.

It’s easy to limn the impact of KelseyHutchinson Founders Park has had on the Highlands community over its 10 years.

All you must do is visit over the course of a year.

On any given afternoon – in all seasons – you’ll find people enjoying their lunch al fresco and swapping stories, the 21st century equivalent of Loafer’s Bench. Or attend the Highlands Farmer’s Market, and you’ll notice neighbors carefully browsing through the bazaar of produce and baked goods and crafts, and – this is important – chatting.

In the Busy Season, you’ll find entire families enjoying the green sward – just one block from bustling Main Street –and making new stories to be shared.

On any Saturday night in the Summer or Autumn, there are raucous, justthis-side-of-rowdy, free concerts

staged before cheering, dancing, and laughing crowds.

Or in the Winter, there are crowds gathering for the Town Tree Lighting or for visits with Santa or Snow Fest 4118 or enjoying the Highlands Skating Rink.

“Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park is a place where the community can come together to celebrate their heritage, share music, ring in the holidays, and find respite and relaxation from the bustle of our busy lives,” says Friends of the Park’s Hank Ross, who was instrumental in bringing the park to splendid life.

It was a long time coming.

In May of 2005, the Highlands Planning Board finalized a new 5-year Land Use Plan, which suggested trying to retain the look and feel, and some of the fabric, of a 19th century village. One of the important features of such a village is a “village green,” or central

park (square), which could provide recreational green space for both young and old, as well as serve as a venue for outdoor community events.

With the relocation of the Highlands Post Office, the tract located on the corner of Fifth and Pine streets went into private ownership. When zoning permission to use the property for a multi-story warehouse fell through, Janet and King Young suggested turning the property into a park.

Using an account established by the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, a committee began raising money to purchase the park. During that period Macon Bank agreed to lease a portion of its property facing Pine Street to the town to serve as amphitheater seating for a new park. In 2007 an individual was found who agreed to purchase the property and hold it while the money could be raised. The property was purchased

for nearly $760,000. It was deeded to the town on Feb. 19, 2008, specifically for use as a public park.

Over a two-year period the committee raised nearly $900,000 for the park from various individuals and organizations (both public and private), including the Land Trust, both Rotary Clubs, The Town of Highlands, and the Macon County Board of Commissioners ($200,000). Contributions from individuals and corporation totaled approximately $300,000. Funds left over after the purchase and associated costs were used for a few improvements at the park, including the crosswalk and the sign erected last spring.

The sub-committee formed in 2006 to purchase the site also initiated efforts to design the park. That committee eventually became an official subcommittee of the town’s Recreation Committee. Various designs for the park were developed in conjunction with the committee by the aforementioned Ross of Ross Landscape Architecture of Highlands, who donated his time to the project. As

early as 2006, Macon Bank donated a gazebo, which was moved to the park to serve as a temporary pavilion.

And in 2009, the town installed a major storm water runoff project under the park property. That project, funded by federal stimulus money, was designed to clean up surface waters on that end of town and reduce flooding. That project was considered the best green project in the state at that time. A raised walkway across Pine Street was also constructed to connect the park to the Macon Bank property, and grass-paved parking spaces were added. As part of the planning process, students in the art class at Highlands School suggested developing an historical theme, leading the town to change the name from Pine Street Park to Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park.

In the fall of 2013, several community organizations came to together to begin exploring the possibility of implementing the most recent design for the park through a combined public/private effort. That initial group was composed of representatives of the Highlands Rotary

Club, the Mountaintop Rotary Club, the Laurel Garden Club, the Mountain Garden Club, the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, the Highlands Plateau Greenway, and the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society.

Which brings us to the present day. Friends of Founders Park, which continues to fundraise to maintain the park (witness their annual Shrimp Boil – a bright spot on the Plateau’s Social Calendar), has outlined clear policy positions to ensure that the park remains a recreational/cultural landmark far into the future.

If you’d like to learn more about Friends and support them in their mission, visit foundersparkhighlands.org. If you’d like to keep up with activities at this busy emerald patch, just one block from Main Street, just keep reading The Laurel or check online at thelaurelmagazine.com.

by Luke Osteen

The storm water runnoff project being installed in 2009.

LIFESTYLES & WELLNESS

Pages 176-191

Bouknight

Unexpected Path

According to Someone’s Plan, a series of Twists in the Tale led to the union of Deena and her beloved Dan.

There’s a saying that if you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans. I told God that I wanted to remain a content and active single person. I learned later that around the same time my husband had mentioned the same thing in his prayers.

However, it is very clear in the scriptures – and we should know by now: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.” Isaiah 55:8 (ESV)

Living in an 800-square-foot cottage near Winding Stair pass of Appalachian Trail fame, I resisted hosting visiting students enrolled in the bi-annual Park Ranger Law Enforcement Academy Training Program at Industrial Park in Franklin, even though a friend kept encouraging me to do so. I caved in

when the friend called and said a young woman was in desperate need of housing and was finding none.

On a blustery early January day in 2020, a beautiful young woman, named Marissa, walked onto my porch and into my cozy cottage, with woodstove burning, homemade chili steaming in bowls, and crusty bread on the table. Welcome goodies were arranged in a basket next to the guestroom bed. We immediately hit it off and became close friends, despite the 30-year-age difference. I cheered her on during the difficult five-month-long course and we hiked, and talked, and ate together. That was, until the pandemic struck and we had to navigate life amidst the craziness.

While Marissa shared details of her life with me, including that her mother lived

in Florida, her father in Pennsylvania, and that she had a twin sister and an older brother, never did she elaborate much on her father, Dan. Yet, fast forward one year; she is working in California and we have stayed in touch over the phone and through social media. She began to tell me that her father was planning to retire early from a government career and would be attending the same park ranger program in Franklin.

“Can you be a resource for him when he comes to Franklin?”

“Sure,” I let her know.

As I look back on it now, I realize that she was stealthily arranging a relationship opportunity. Each month leading up to Dan’s arrival in Franklin, she texted me and asked the same question. Finally, she pushed: “Why don’t you just reach

Deena

and Dan Finnerty

out to him yourself and give him your contact information.”

I thought nothing of it. Remember, I was a committed single. I messaged Dan and, well, the rest is (as cliché as it sounds) history. He called in late April 2021 and we talked and/or texted – for hours daily – until he arrived to move into a temporary rented garage apartment on July 30, as the course began August 1. As I had ready for his daughter a year and a half earlier, I had a meal – as well as a welcome basket – prepared for when we met in person for the first time. He relayed to me that one time, when Marissa was living with me, he asked her what I was like. She said, “She’s a female you, dad,” meaning that we had so much in common.

Indeed, every spare minute that Dan was not in class, we hiked, watched historic documentaries, traveled to local sites, cooked together, and more.

By December, he had to go back to Pennsylvania and we had no firm commitment, but that changed quickly in early 2022, and by April we were engaged. He accepted a seasonal position as a park ranger in West Yellowstone, Montana, and I drove out and back with him as well as visited during his four months there.

While working 2,000 miles away in Montana, Dan sold his home in Pennsylvania and purchased land on Tessentee Road in Macon County. We returned to Franklin in September 2022, married at my sister’s horse farm on Tessentee Road with close family and friends present, and began clearing land and building a dream home, which we moved into in July 2023, two years to the month of our first face-to-face meeting.

Dan and I have since learned that not only Marissa, but her twin sister, Tia, had been discussing and hoping for our

happy union since Marissa first met me. Dan likes to say to anyone who asks about how we got together, “If you would have told me back in 2021 that I would not be living in Pennsylvania, that I would be married, that I would be living on 10 acres in Franklin and in a new home … I would have told you that you were crazy.”

But that is the case, and our lives are wonderful and full; we both write and travel and garden and much, much more. “God moves in a mysterious way, His wonders to perform; … God is his own interpreter, And he will make it plain.” - British 18th century hymn writer William Cowper

by Deena Bouknight

Highlands-Cashiers Hospital Investing in Our Community

Highlands-Cashiers Hospital’s commitment to Cashiers and Highlands and all the little communities across the Plateau lies at the heart of its mission.

Highlands-Cashiers Hospital’s investment in our community connects us to our neighbors, the people we care for. This investment can be seen from our donations to local nonprofits to community events like our Teddy Bear Hospitals, which aim to soothe children’s fears about doctor visits or healthcare settings.

At these events, I have noticed children’s eyes sparkle with interest – possibly being inspired to pursue future careers in healthcare. I also appreciate the opportunity I have to meet with nursing students who come to our hospital to learn through programs at Southwestern Community College and Western Carolina University. I take each group to lunch and ask one question: “Why did you choose to become a nurse?” You would be amazed how many chose their career path as children.

Speaking of our Teddy Bear Hospitals, we recently took part in HCA Healthcare’s Healthy Food for Healthier Tomorrows Canned Food Drive, a national initiative focused on helping communities experiencing

food insecurity.

The icing on the cake? Our teddy bear sculpture, constructed from the canned foods we collected, not only won $10,000 as the top entry across all Mission Health hospitals, but also came in at Number 1 throughout HCA Healthcare — earning us an additional $25,000 grant for food pantries in Highlands and Cashiers. We also donated the 435 pounds of canned food that formed our sculpture.

It’s important for us, as a hospital team, to reflect on the fact that our commitment to the community and our growth contribute to achievements that not only make us proud, but more importantly, mean better care for our patients. These milestones include earning Acute Stroke Ready Hospital accreditation from The Joint Commission – a gold seal of approval that means we are providing the highest standard of care for stroke patients in a community hospital.

Throughout pursuing this accreditation, our processes have improved, and I have had the opportunity to witness lives saved by our emergency department

providing life-changing care for stroke victims within minutes of their arrival. This timeliness with care is critical in the case of a stroke. It is amazing and heartening to watch.

I am also proud to report that our ER was recognized as the Number 1 Emergency Department for hospitals with less than 40,000 visits per year throughout HCA Healthcare for sustaining the highest level of patient experience for over a year.

One of our ER doctors, Dr. John Worthington, was recognized with the APEX (Achieving Peak Performance in Patient Experience) Award as the top performing ER doctor.

I’m inspired and energized by our special community’s support of and involvement in our growth. This partnership is essential for ensuring a bright future for healthcare on the Plateau, I am grateful for it, and anticipate that it will continue to evolve to benefit all of us.

by Tom Neal RN, MBA, MHA, CEO/CNO, Highlands-Cashiers Hospital

Tom Neal

Kickstart Your Spring

Fusion Yoga and Wellness’ Spring Renewal Workshop, set for April 18-20, is a guided journey to a healthier, happier life.

For more information, visit fusionyogaandwellness.com.

Nalicia Allio

The vibrant energy of spring blooms around us here on the Plateau as the season changes and it’s the ideal time to embark on a journey of renewal and rejuvenation. What better way to kickstart this process than with three days of mindful eating, meditation and intention setting for the season ahead.

The guided Spring Renewal Workshop at Fusion Yoga and Wellness will focus on making mindful food choices. The eve before beginning we will meet virtually to connect and discuss intentions around food and other movement goals for the next three days in order to set a foundation for success.

This is a very personal journey and will not look the same for each participant. While there will be ideas to help guide each person, your intentions for your Spring Renewal are personal and as unique as each individual is inherently. Each person will also receive a short,

guided meditation to listen to once a day to help stay focused on intentions, remain steadfast to the set goals and stay in a positive frame of mind.

Each participant will also be encouraged to support this meditation with grounding barefoot outside each day for a small period of time.

Finally, the three-day session will conclude with another virtual group gathering to reflect, to help integrate the learnings of the Spring Renewal into the life of each person. A guide of ideas to help make more nutritious food choices moving forward will be sent to each participant as well.

My name is Nalicia Allio, I will be your guide on this Spring Renewal Journey. I am a certified yoga instructor and have a passion for delicious and nutritious food which led me to gain a certification in Nutrition and Healthy Living virtually through Cornell University.

I believe that each individual is unique and their relationship with food is as well. My role is to act as a guide to help empower you to make steps to create a healthier, more well balanced and joyful you.

I invite you to join me this April 18-20 for the Spring Renewal Workshop and take back ownership of your wellness one mindful decision at a time. Looking forward to sharing this journey with those of you called to join.

by Nalicia Allio Fusion Yoga and Wellness

Making an Impact

Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation’s Grants are Enabling Organizations to Tackle Critical Issues Around the Plateau.

The Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation continues its mission to make a positive difference in the community by awarding grants to organizations that focus on addressing critical concerns occurring in health and well-being. The Health Foundation’s grant program recently supported AWAKE (Adults Working and Advocating for Kids’ Empowerment) and Life Challenge of Western North Carolina to help tackle the important issues of child abuse and substance misuse.

AWAKE is a non-profit organization that focuses on advocating for child abuse victims in Jackson County. They provide support and services to both the affected children and their families while also educating the community on identifying signs of abuse and how to report such instances.

One of the most vital aspects of AWAKE’s work is its on-site counseling program, which provides traumafocused counseling services to children and their families. This counseling is crucial for helping children overcome traumatic experiences and provides

them with the support they need to recover. These services are offered at no cost and provide a safe and confidential environment for children to heal from adverse experiences. In addition to counseling, AWAKE offers a range of other services through a multidisciplinary team approach, including forensic interviewing, child medical evaluations, case management, and community outreach programs.

The Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation also provided a grant to Life Challenge of Western North Carolina, a nonprofit organization that offers behavioral health and addiction services in the western region of North Carolina. Life Challenge focuses on helping women between the ages of 18 and 39 who struggle with life-controlling addiction, including but not limited to substance abuse (drug & alcohol addiction), depression, and eating disorders. The grant awarded to Life Challenge supports breaking down barriers to addiction treatment by providing women with the tools, skills, and support they need to overcome their challenges and

reclaim their lives. Not only does Life Challenge address the mental health challenges associated with substance abuse, but it also helps with associated health disorders. Life Challenge offers a comprehensive approach to recovery, addressing all aspects of a woman’s life to ensure a successful transition into a healthier and more fulfilling future.

The Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation ensures that resources are available to organizations like AWAKE and Life Challenge of Western North Carolina. Support for these organizations will lift the health and well-being of Western North Carolina and create a stronger and healthier community for everyone.

For more information about AWAKE, please visit awakecacenter.org or call (828) 586-3574.

For more information about Life Challenge of Western North Carolina, please visit lifechallengewnc.org or call (828) 631-0055.

by Josh Bryson, Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation

Financial Focus® When Should You Take Social Security?

One of your important sources of retirement income will likely be Social Security — but when should you start taking it?

You can start collecting Social Security benefits at 62, but your checks will be considerably bigger if you wait until your full retirement age, which is likely between 66 and 67.

You could even wait until you’re 70, at which point the payments will max out, except for yearly cost-of-living adjustments. But if you need the money, you need the money, even if you’re just 62 or any age before full retirement age. However, if you have adequate financial resources to meet your monthly needs, whether through earned income, your investment portfolio or a combination of the two, you could have some flexibility in choosing when to take Social Security. In this case, you may want to weigh these considerations:

Life expectancy – For all of us, it’s one of life’s great mysteries: How long will we live? Of course, we can’t see into the future, so the question can’t be answered with total confidence. But to make an informed decision on when to take Social Security, you don’t need to know your exact lifespan — you just need to make a reasonably good estimate. So, for example, if you’re approaching 62, you’re enjoying excellent health and you have a family history of longevity, you might conclude it’s worth waiting a few years to collect Social Security, so you can receive the bigger payments. Conversely, if your health is questionable and your family has not been fortunate in terms of longevity, you might want to start taking your benefits earlier.

Employment – You can certainly continue working and still receive Social Security benefits. However, if you’re under your full retirement age for the entire year, Social Security will deduct

$1 from your benefits for every $2 you earn above the annual limit of $22,320. In the year you reach your full retirement age, Social Security will deduct $1 in benefits for every $3 you earn above $59,520. So, you may want to keep these reductions in mind when deciding when to begin accepting benefits. Once you reach your full retirement age, you can earn any amount without losing benefits. (Also, at your full retirement age, Social Security will recalculate your benefit amount to credit you for the months you received reduced benefits because of your excess earnings.)

Spouse – Spouses can receive two types of Social Security benefits: spousal and survivor. With a spousal benefit, your spouse can receive up to 50% of your full retirement benefits, regardless of when you start taking them. (Your spouse’s benefit can be reduced by the amount of their own retirement benefit and whether they took Social Security

before their full retirement age.) But with a survivor benefit, your decision about when to take Social Security can make a big difference. A surviving spouse can receive the larger of their own benefit or 100% of a deceased spouse’s benefit, so if you take benefits early and receive a permanent reduction, your spouse’s survivor benefit may also be reduced for their lifetime.

When to take Social Security is an important — and irrevocable — decision. So, consider all the factors before making your choice.

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

Todd Holder

Unbridled Imagination

Kaleb is coming home to Carpe Diem Farms and bringing his good friend Daniel with him.

Kaleb, our Percheron-Paint cross, who was gifted to us March 21, 2014, by Cindy Sheets is coming home!

Once Kaleb was here and had learned the ways of the farm, participated in programs, and was a wonderful trail horse, I began traveling to promote Easy’s Slipper. We learned quickly that he didn’t have a big enough job, with me gone, he had too much pent-up energy and would get very naughty. At nearly 1,800 pounds he would run through fences and chase the herd of mares. Not good.

Five years later, as fate would have it, a young woman in Bulls Gap, Tennessee, who was an Easy’s Slipper customer for her vaulting champion, eighteen-twohand Percheron, Mavi, was looking for a shorter backed horse for her young vaulters. It was perfect!

Kaleb could have a job and live with a band of geldings giving up his mischievous ways! Or at least curb them. In October of 2019 he headed to Tennessee.

It’s now time to bring him home for his Forever Life. At 20, with hopes that he has left behind some of his naughty ways he returns to Carpe Diem Farms on April 10. The best news is he’s bringing with him one of Arielle’s very special horses and a pasture mate of Kaleb’s, Daniel, who will be a part of our herd, and this will be his forever home!

Daniel has an interesting history, he was rescued off the track. A Thoroughbred who was in the 100-day training for the “Thoroughbred Makeover” created by The Retired Racehorse Project, a 501(c) (3) charitable organization. Its purpose, to showcase the trainability and talent of off-track Thoroughbreds. Four hundred-plus trainers and thoroughbreds compete in ten disciplines. Arielle, as an

amateur, matched with Daniel, trained him to compete in both vaulting and dressage. Daniel was a winner in both events and rather than offering him in the event auction she brought him home to Tennessee! He has enjoyed teaching vaulting, dressage, trail riding and working cows!

At thirteen, some of his early racetrack injuries sometimes bother him. We will be able to offer him an easy semiretirement in our programs. A win-win for us all.

Carpe Diem Farms, Inc. Is a 501(c) (3) non-profit, “Exploring the human potential through equines.”

by Sue Blair, Carpe Diem Farms

The Mental Game

Our mental and spiritual health are integral to our physical health.

In the pursuit of overall wellness, it’s easy to focus solely on the physical aspects—nutrition, exercise, and medical treatments. However, an often overlooked but equally vital component of well-being is mental health.

Our mindset, attitudes, and beliefs play a significant role in shaping our physical health and overall quality of life. Let’s delve into how our mental game impacts our physical well-being and explore strategies for fostering a positive mindset.

The concept of the mind-body connection is not new, but its profound implications continue to be revealed through scientific research. Studies have shown that our thoughts and emotions can influence physiological processes, such as heart rate, immune function, and even the expression of genes related to inflammation and disease. Negative emotions like stress, anxiety, and depression can weaken the immune system,

increase inflammation, and exacerbate existing health conditions. Conversely, cultivating positive emotions, such as optimism, gratitude, and resilience, can have profound benefits for physical health and longevity.

Chronic stress is particularly detrimental to both mental and physical health. Prolonged stress can lead to a range of health issues, including hypertension, cardiovascular disease, digestive disorders, and weakened immune function. Moreover, stress can exacerbate existing conditions such as chronic pain, making it essential to address stress management as part of a comprehensive wellness plan. Fortunately, just as negative emotions can harm our health, positive emotions can serve as powerful antidotes.

Cultivating a positive mindset involves adopting habits and practices that promote mental and emotional wellbeing. This may include mindfulness meditation, gratitude journaling,

engaging in hobbies and activities that bring joy, and surrounding ourselves with supportive relationships.

It’s essential to recognize that maintaining mental health is not a solo endeavor. Seeking support from mental health professionals, counselors, or support groups can provide valuable tools and resources for navigating life’s challenges and promoting resilience. Additionally, building a strong support network of friends, family, and community can offer invaluable emotional support during difficult times.

In the journey toward optimal health and well-being, it’s crucial to recognize the interconnectedness of our mental and physical selves.

by Dr. Kristin Lander, DC Highlands Chiropractic & Wellness

Dr. Kristin Lander

Bunions and Barleycorn

Donna’s treasured cookbooks are anything but dry reading.

In my 40s I inherited three family cookbooks. The original owners:

Aunt Annie and my grandmother, Mary Serina, born 1885-ish.

Anne and Mary were two Southern cooks who could whip up lard biscuits so light, they’d fly past my eager fingers, right into my watering mouth. I blame my two culinary matriarchs for my girth today.

But, oh, what a delicious way to go.

Mother’s Cook Book, Granny’s contribution, was filled with pages so stained with drips and spills, you could boil it down and make a broth. Its antediluvian recipes, then called receipts, were measured in thimblefuls, dashes, dots, and dustings.

But receipts were only part of the book. The remainder was a dowry manual on how to establish a household. There was practical advice for slopping a hog. How to clean boots, aka your hubby’s hogsloppin’ uggs. How to sew, polish, clean, and repair practically anything. How to germinate a vegetable/flower garden, then dry, can, and arrange the yield.

Most intriguing of all were essays on how to rear one’s children –so they don’t become hogs.

No offense to hogs. They’re smart, playful, have an excellent memory, and let’s face it, they are covered in delicious bacon – please don’t judge me.

This month’s article is inspired not by any of the cookbooks’ recipes and essays, but by newspaper clippings that Annie glued inside her cookbook covers. My favorite Annie-factoid refers to barleycorn, a term we rarely hear anymore. Those who recognize it, might associate it with contemporary expressions: Dixie-fried (snockered). Or trizzarkled (really snockered).

Here’s how barley and boot met. The length of a grain of barley is about 1/3 inch long. Barley was abundant in English fields. Eventually, it became the official measurement for footwear. End result: one additional barleycorn length equaled one shoe size.

Surprisingly, the one-third inch measurement is still used today to calculate shoe

sizes in English-speaking countries (though not-so-much in the U.S.).

Annie pasted the barleycorn clipping in her book, perhaps because she had foot issues and foot-facts intrigued her – though she had no corns. Bunions the size of pomegranates, yes, but no corns. If only she’d substituted her 6 barleycorn-size shoes for a barleycorn 9-er. Alas, her pain ballooned right along with her bunions.

Even though Annie trashed her feet with high-heels, she could still trizzarkle with the best of ‘em. After a mug or two, she began to think of fermented barley as a proper foot medication.

Nevertheless, whilst snockered, attempting to lace her boots – well, she could barley make ends meet.

Annie’s cookbook: Good Meals and How to Prepare Them, A Guide to Meal-planning, Cooking, and Serving. Katharine A. Fisher, Director, Good Housekeeping Institute, fifth |edition, 1927.

by Donna Rhodes / art by Norma Jean Zahner

20 Years of Better Skin

A tradition of caring lies at the heart of Highlands Dermatology’s 20 years of service here in Western North Carolina. To learn more about their services, visit highlandsdermatology. com. To schedule an appointment, text or call (888) 565-8828.

(l-r) From left to right.

Jane Pressler, Dr. Paul Cabiran, Chris Trotter, and Lindsey Koach.

Highlands Dermatology is marking 20 years this month of providing high quality skin care in the Highlands, Franklin and Brevard areas of Western North Carolina. This milestone is based on a commitment to provide the most up to date medical and surgical therapies for a wide range of skin conditions.

“Skin is your first line of defense against the environment and its immunologic function is essential in prevention of infectious disease,” says Highlands Dermatology’s Director, Dr. Paul Cabiran. “Dermatologists are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of all skin conditions including skin infections, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, acne and the many types of skin cancer which today are being seen in increasing frequency.

“The most surprising aspect of this practice over the last 20 years is the great increase in the incidence of melanoma

skin cancers” says Dr. Paul. When we first started in 2004, melanomas were rare and we would see one or two cases every month. Now we are seeing one or two cases a week. Luckily, the majority of these melanomas are diagnosed at a very early ‘in-situ’ stage and are easily treated with simple excisional surgery.” Regular use of sunscreen and photo protection as well as annual skin exams are essential for maintenance of healthy skin. Patients with a history of skin cancer usually come in more frequently and often have suspicious lesions biopsied. When a skin cancer is diagnosed, surgery is usually performed in the office or more complicated cases may be referred to a Mohs surgeon or an oncologic surgeon.

“It has been an honor providing dermatology care to the people of western North Carolina over the last 20 years and all of us at Highlands Dermatology would like to thank the community for

their support.

The practice has three mid-level providers who have training and expertise in Dermatology. Jane K. Pressler, F.N.P., joined the practice in 2014. Jane also completed course work and testing to become a Dermatology certified Nurse Practitioner. Christopher Trotter MSPAS, PA-C and Lindsey Koach, DNP, APRN, FNP-C joined the practice in 2023. This team is committed to excellence in Dermatology.

Highlands Dermatology is located at 5526 Cashiers Road, across from Wildcat Cliffs Country Club.

by Luke Osteen

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BEAUTY

CONSTRUCTION

CLEANING CABINETRY

HOME CARE

HOME DECOR

photo by Susan Renfro

Adopt for the Love of it.

A sweet affair of the heart is no cause for concern for David’s loving wife and the animals of Cashiers Highlands Humane Society.

Due to a short out-of-town trip, I got home a little later than usual on the evening of February 14.

Looking my beautiful bride straight in the eye, I stated matter-of-factly that I was late coming home because I had been communicating with another woman in another town since last November, and it was her idea that we meet in person for the first time on Valentine’s Day.

Furthermore, once we met, this wonderful other woman gave me a car as a Valentine’s present.

It would be perfectly understandable if my wife paraphrased the Ricky Ricardo line from, I Love Lucy and said, “David, you got some ‘splainin’ to do!”

So that’s the truth. But it’s not the whole truth. Because my lovely wife knew about this all along.

In our Winter 2023 newsletter PAWsitive News, we included an urgent plea for

the donation of a “gently-used” smallto-mid-size vehicle. While we love our big capacity animal transport van (which easily accommodates 20-25 animals) for our spay/neuter trips and large-scale rescues, we needed a smaller vehicle that was more efficient for our near-daily veterinarian appointments, regular food pickups and local supplies errands. Plus, the occasional trips we make to the after-hours emergency vet hospitals in Asheville almost always involve the transport of just 1-2 animals at a time. An amazing human being and passionate animal lover responded to our plea. And after a few weeks of preparation, it was this wonderful donor’s idea to make our dream come true on Valentine’s Day. We met Gail at the tag office in Brevard and transferred the title, and then this incredible lady handed us the keys to a beautiful Chevrolet HHR!

We are immensely grateful and thankful to Gail for this much-needed vehicle

to assist in our lifesaving work for the animals. It is exactly what we had hoped for, and to make it even more perfect, the vehicle had a magnet on the back which we are never going to remove. The magnet reads: “Don’t Shop…Adopt.”

Established in 1987, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit animal welfare organization located at 200 Gable Drive in Sapphire, oneand-a-half miles east of the Cashiers Ingles in between Cedar Creek Club and Lonesome Valley on Highway 64. Our no-kill shelter is open TuesdaySaturday 10:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M. For more information, call (828) -743-5752 or email info@chhumanesociety.org. Tax-deductible donations to support our lifesaving work can be mailed to: CHHS, P.O. Box 638, Cashiers, NC 28717.

by David Stroud, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society

Just Older Youth

Highlands United Methodist Church is inviting seniors looking for a lively circle of friends to join its JOY Group, meeting every Thursday from 11:30 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.

Eight years ago, Highlander Tricia Smith was out in the community performing wellness visits for a health insurance company.

“I noticed how many of the seniors I encountered were in pretty good physical shape, but were displaying symptoms of loneliness and borderline depression,” she remembers. “They were hungry for conversations and experiences with people their own age, who could relate to the things that were important to them.”

That observation led her to ask her pastor, Rev. Paul Christy of Highlands United Methodist Church, if the church would hold weekly luncheons for the people of this age group.

“I knew if we could offer a good meal and a fun program or activity, the community would respond,” she says.

The pastor agreed, and Smith launched the JOY (Just Older Youth) Group, with local kitchen wizard Kristy

Martin providing a nutritious, lovingly prepared lunch.

The bunch still meets every Thursday from 11:30 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. in the church’s Faith & Fellowship Center. Activities range across a wide spectrum – programs by local experts, dog bingo, screenings of vintage movies (complete with popcorn), and even field trips to local landmarks and excursions off the Plateau. And always with Martin’s lunches.

HUMC’s current pastor, Rev. Dr. Randy Lucas affirms “the JOY Group is open to everyone, regardless of church affiliation or faith preference. All are welcome!

So, if you’re looking for a bit of lively conversation and a guaranteed good meal and perhaps a little surprise, you’re welcome to join the conversation.

If you have questions, call Kristy Martin at (828) 526-3376.

by Luke Osteen

Compassionate Service

With 10 years under its belt, the Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau is charting an ambitious course for its future – for its children.

With the Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau celebrating a decade of compassionate service, it’s cast its gaze back, just for an instance, before looking ahead at a busy year and a busy decade.

“This year marks our 10th anniversary, and the club has grown by leaps and bounds. We started with about 100 kids, and now are over 450 and growing,” says Merrel Hattink, who serves on the BGC Board. “This year we will open an additional Club in Highlands and are beginning to build a teen Club building at the Cashiers site.”

1. To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. This is achieved by providing aworld-class Club experience that ensures success is within reach of every young person who walks through our doors.

2. BGCP provides a safe supportive

environment filled with caring adults who love working with the youth of our community. Programs are filled with fun activities that support academic success, healthy lifestyles, emotional wellbeing, character, and citizenship.

3. Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau is excited to be celebrating its 10th year of operation. Founded at the Community center in cashiers 10 years ago the Club operated in two rooms and served 150 members.

4. In 2022 it opened its new facility at 558 Frank Allen Road where membership has increased to over 450 members in 2023.

5. BGCP will be opening its second location in Highlands, NC this Spring and Club devoted to teen members will open on the Cashiers campus in 2025.

6. Summer Camp will operate at both the Cashiers and Highlands locations and registration is cur-

rently open. For more information, visit the Club website at bgcplateau.org.

“We are thrilled and amazed at the success and growth not only of the Club in the last 10 years, but that of the young people we serve,” says Carmen Waite, the chairwoman of the Childcare Coalition of Highlands. “I’ve really had a chance to understand the needs here in Highlands and we are looking forward to being part of the community as we open this second location.”

by Luke Osteen

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Pivotal for Success

The vibrant life of the community lies at the heart of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce’s mission.

Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur, embarking on a new business venture or a business-minded citizen, the decision to join a Chamber of Commerce can be pivotal for your success. Established in 1931 to serve as the voice of local businesses, the Highlands Chamber of Commerce has grown to provide services and support to businesses, residents and visitors. With a commitment to enriching the community and fostering economic growth, here’s why joining the

Highlands Chamber of Commerce could be beneficial:

Networking: One of the most significant advantages of joining the Highlands Chamber of Commerce is the opportunity to expand your professional network. By becoming a member and attending events such as Coffee Chats and Business After Hours, you gain access to a diverse community of local businesses and professionals. These connections can

open doors to potential partnerships, collaborations and new opportunities.

Enhanced Credibility: 63% of consumers are more likely to buy products or services from businesses who are members of their local chamber. Being affiliated with the Highlands Chamber of Commerce and proudly displaying your member sticker demonstrates to customers and clients that you are committed to excellence and actively involved in the local business community.

Resources: Members of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce gain access to a wealth of resources designed to enhance their expertise and effectiveness.

Programs like Leadership Highlands and Chamber-led community meetings provide valuable opportunities for business leaders to sharpen their skills and stay ahead of industry trends.

Increased Visibility: The Highlands Chamber of Commerce offers prime exposure opportunities for its members. Through the Welcome Center, members can showcase their marketing materials. Furthermore, the Chamber amplifies member visibility through its annual

Experience Guide (available in both print and digital formats), weekly Community newsletter, and monthly Member and Visitor newsletters, all of which prominently feature member information. Complementing these efforts are the Chamber’s robust social media channels, providing an additional platform for members to gain exposure.

Community Engagement: Beyond the business benefits, joining the Highlands Chamber of Commerce allows you to play an active role in enriching the local community. Through various events including Plateau Pick Up, the Christmas Parade, Snow Fest and the

like, the Chamber fosters community engagement and civic involvement. By participating in these activities, you not only contribute to the prosperity of the community but also enhance your businesses visibility and goodwill.

We invite you to become a Business or Social member of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce. Together, we can discover new opportunities, forge meaningful connections and make a lasting impact on our community.

by Johanna Fein, Highlands Chamber of Commerce / Visit Highlands, NC

When you’re looking for direction in the unique and specialized world of Plateau Real Estate, it helps to have an insider’s perspective. A local’s insight is worth its weight in gold – or in this case, prime real estate.

That’s why the office of Christie’s Highlands/Cashiers (North 5th Street in Highlands) is such a valuable resource.

It’s loaded with full-time residents –starting with Broker-in-Charge Clif Gottwals, and including Doug Helms, Steve Castellaw, Pat Gleeson, Bee Gleeson, and Colleen Kerrigan.

“Our team is composed of only full-time residents who know and love the area and that is what drives our enthusiasm and value proposition to clients who want a trusted and knowledgeable advi-

sor,” says Gottwals. “We are committed to our community and actively invest our time and financial resources advancing local programs ranging from the cultural to the ecological.”

Those local investments include support for Mountain Theatre Company, Mirror Lake Improvement Association, Literacy and Learning Center, and the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation.

“We each bring with us our experience from prior successful careers in industries ranging from International Trade, Investment Banking, Law, Advertising, Local Business Ownership, and Photography,” says Gottwals. “We’ve come together as a team born out of common values, ethics and like-minded enthusiasm.

We offer over 75 years of collective real estate experience in this very special-

ized market.”

Of course, this locally-flavored real estate office approaches its success with a different metric than what’s the industry standard.

“Unlike most brokerages, we measure our success based on the quality of relationships that we build with the goal of becoming a multi-generational resource for those that share our love of this magical place,” Gottwals says.

You can discover for yourself by visiting highlandscashierscire.com or calling (828) 482-5022.

Even better, stop by North 5th Street in Highlands for a chat. After all, that’s the local way.

Christie’s Highlands/Cashiers brings a local sensibility to Plateau Real Estate.

by Luke Osteen photo by Susan Renfro

(l-r) Pat Gleeson, Bee Gleeson, Clif Gottwals, Doug Helms, Steve Castellaw, and Colleen Kerrigan

PARTING SHOT

by Susan Renfro