July 2015 Laurel Magazine

LAUREL THELAURELMAGAZINE.COM

YOUR GUIDE TO HIGHLANDS AND CASHIERS | JULY 2015

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events • arts dining • maps

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Publisher’s Note

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million colors explode across the sky and July lights up the mountains. Shop windows and garden tours continue the colorfest, painting the lush canvas of the plateau by day. Nights light up with tiki torches, campfires and the sound of friends gathering.

We at the Laurel thank you for including us in what is shaping up to be a most colorful summer!

With love, Marjorie and Janet

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Inside The Laurel • July 2015

Events

14 • Pollinators in the Limelight 16 • Joy Garden Tour 18 • Live Music in Highlands 20 • Village Green Fireworks 22 • Humane Heros 24 • Big Ol’ Country Mountain Breakfast 26 • Cashiers Antique Show 28 • Highlands 4th of July 29 • Center for Life Enrichment 30 • Annual Auction and Bazaar 31 • The Garden Talk Salon 32 • Groovin’ on the Green 34 • Highlands Twilight 5k 36 • Rotary Bingo 37 • Patriotic Concert 38 • Cashiers Designer Showhouse™ 39 • Concert on the Slopes 40 • Relay for Life 41 • Cashiers Library 42 • Lunch for Literacy 46 • Laurel Garden Club Kitchen Tour 48 • Classic Film Festival 50 • Village Nature Series 51 • Interlude Concerts 52 • Trunk Shows at Acorns Boutique 54 • Garden Party 54 • Patriotic Concert 58 • Controlled Chaos Film Festival 60 • Musical at Kelsey-Hutchinson Park 62 • Lafayete Trunk Show at Narcissus

The Arts

History

126 • Highlands History 128 • Cashiers History

78 • The Art of Jenny Mixon 79 • Plateau Gallery News 80 • Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music 82 • The Art of Fran Chicoine 84 • Summer Colors Art Show 85 • Bel Canto 86 • JoAnn Williams Walker 88 • Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music 90 • Highlands-Cashiers Players 92 • Highlands Playhouse Season 94 • The Art of Matt Tommey

Mountain Wedding 132 • Countries Apart

Homes & Lifestyles 142 • Home of Distinction 144 • Piña Colada Song 146 • Highlands First Baptist Church 147 • Rebooting Your Brain 148 • A Novel Idea 148 • A Good Read 149 • Alaska Awaits

Dining 100 • Ristorante Paoletti 101 • Healthy Peach Pie Oatmeal 102 • Scaly Mountain Breakfast 103 • Happy Canyon 104 • ‘Nilla Nanner Puddin’ 105 • Evenings at Lakeside 106 • Verandah Welcomes Fifer

Giving Back

Venture Out 112 • Link Up with Disc Golf 113 • Fly Fishing 114 • The Accidental Gardener 115 • Golf Talk 116 • Eastern Box Turtle and Summer Tanager 118 • Mountain Wildlife Days 120 • Highlands Plateau Audubon Society 122 • Bats

156 • Volunteer Spotlight, Julie Schott 157 • Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society 158 • Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust 159 • Friends for Life 160 • Big Brothers/Big Sisters 161 • Highlands Literacy Council 162 • NAMI 163 • The Food Pantry 164 • Little Free Library

Business Spotlight | 165

66 • Calendar | 70 • Highlands Map | 72 • Cashiers Map | 111 • Dining Guide | 152 • Service Directory | 252 • Advertiser’s Index

Making It Happen

Dylan Cobb, Account Rep

Janet Cummings, Managing Partner

Marjorie Christiansen, Managing Partner

Michelle Munger, Art Director

Sam Cummings, Account Rep

janet@thelaurelmagazine.com

marjorie@thelaurelmagazine.com

mungerclan5@aol.com

sam@thelaurelmagazine.com

Donna Rhodes, Writer

Wiley Sloan, Writer

Luke Osteen, Writer

Jenny King, Writer

Thomas Cummings, Distribution Manager

dumbdogs@earthlink.net

jettking@gmail.com

jothcu@yahoo.com

donna847@frontier.com

wileyandsarah@nctv.com

dylan@thelaurelmagazine.com

Contributing Writers: Alex Foltz, Jane Gibson Nardy, Gary Wein, Kathy Bub, Mary Adair Leslie, Sue Blair, Dr. Anastasia Halldin, David Stroud, Curt Christiansen, Tonya Hensley, Michelle S. Ruigrok, Bonnie Dayton, Donita Cline, Debbie Lassiter and Jeannie Chambers.

Copyright © 2015 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.

Volume Fourteen • Issue Six • www.thelaurelmagazine.com • 828-526-0173 • editorial@thelaurelmagazine.com • P.O. Box 565 • Highlands, NC 28741

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Silver Run Falls

Your Favorite Cool Off Spot?

by Jenny King | Photo by Todd Ranson We’re looking for your favorite cooling off space that’s perfect for splashing.

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e’ve been taking notes on what your plans were for the Fourth of July. Most of you chose to enjoy the Fireworks at The Village Green.

We got some pretty great ideas for cook-outs, too.

For this month’s Readers’ Poll, we’re asking you to let us know your favorite spots to cool off. While we love the fact that our temperatures are significantly cooler than other places in the South, sometimes you just need to enjoy a refreshing splash.

All sorts of natural swimming holes surround us and it’s hard to choose three; but we’re going for the ones you’ve probably heard about like Silver Run Falls in Cashiers. Silver Run Falls, just four miles south of Cashiers on Highway 107 are a great set of falls for the entire family to enjoy. Access the falls via a short trail through a wooded area, crossing one footbridge and finding yourself at the bottom of the falls and a large plunge pool.

Also near Cashiers is Sliding Rock. Don’t confuse this with the much larger Sliding Rock near Brevard. This one is the headwaters of the Chattooga National Wild & Scenic River. Play in the pool

at the bottom of the sliding rock or take the trail to the top for a short, but exciting slide into the pool below. From Cashiers, drive south on Highway 107 for 1.7 miles. Turn right onto Whiteside Cove Road. Go 2.7 miles, crossing a bridge just before the parking areas on your right.

Finally, let’s take a look at the small little beach area on the Highlands Plateau Greenway. It’s located at the Mill Creek Bridge on the Oak Lane Trail. You’ll discover a bench, a “sandy” beach, and shallow flowing water that’s perfect for the little ones. To find it, pick up a map of the Highlands Plateau Greenway or view it at HighlandsGreenway.com. If you’re somewhat familiar with the trails, it’s located southwest of the Highlands Recreation Park.

By the way, these descriptions were gathered online and from personal experience.

To vote, please visit our Facebook Page at facebook.com/ TheLaurelMagazine. Write-in suggestions are welcomed. Please be careful out there; every year we hear of people who have slipped on wet rocks. Use common sense and have some fun.

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EVENTS

Pollinators in the Limelight Contributed by Sonya Carpenter | Photo by Clay Bolt

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Our humble pollinators face a host of deadly threats. The Highlands Biological Station explains the stakes and outlines the steps we can take to safeguard these hard-working allies.

ollinators such as bees, butterflies, moths, and birds play a critical role in our ecosystem and our economy.

These species carry a heavy economic burden on their winged little backs. A recent study by Cornell University determined that the pollination services provided by these species contributed as much as $29 billion in 2010 to agricultural income in the US alone. Without the services of pollinators many of our favorite foods such as blueberries, apples, and coffee would disappear from our grocery store shelves. For decades, scientists have been sounding the alarm on behalf of the health and welfare of pollinators. Very recently the White House released the National Strategy for the Health of Pollinators. The decline of these species has been precipitous in the past decade due to pesticide use, habitat loss, and several viruses and parasites that plague bees in particular. Much can and should be done to help protect these valuable species and the first step is education.

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This year the Highlands Biological Station is placing special focus on pollinators with a new exhibit at the Nature Center, lectures and workshops dedicated to pollinator education and conservation, and the development and design of a new pollinator habitat on the campus of the Highlands Biological Station.

On July 16 Clay Bolt will present “4,000 Reasons to Love (and Protect) Native Bees” a free talk hosted by Julia and Bill Grumbles.

On August 18, join Dr. Lisa Wagner for a hands-on workshop to learn more about “Creating Pollinator Habitat with Native Plants” and on September 3, Dr. Alfonso Alonso will present a free lecture sponsored by Robert and Corbin Tucker entitled “Monarch Butterflies: How We Can Maintain Their Remarkable Migration.”

There are many ways each of us can help our valuable and endangered pollinator species. This summer we hope you will join the Highlands Biological Station to learn more and take action to protect pollinators in our environment.

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Gardens: A Work of Heart EVENTS

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by Jenny King

The Garden Shops will also be open ne of the most highly anticipated events of the on that day from 10:00 A.M. until 4:00 P.M. This boutique shopping season is the Joy Garden experience features more than 30 Tour benefiting The Village Green vendors with a wide variety of items in Cashiers. for sale.

Many exciting events, both ticketed and open to the public, A New Orleans Jazz Brunch on Sunday, showcases the artists who are planned for the days of July will paint en plein air, or in the open 15 through 19. Joy Garden Tour features three speaking events for air, in and around the gardens during Joy Garden Tour. Their original art will garden and floral enthusiasts. be available for sale at this fun event Ryan Gainey, who designed one 11:30 A.M. Sunday, July 19, at the of the gardens on this year’s tour, Country Club of Sapphire Valley. Sip will speak at a ticketed reception at 11:30 A.M Wednesday, July 15, at the Mimosas and Bloody Marys, and feast on New Orleans brunch fare while Country Club of Sapphire Valley. listening to a jazz ensemble.

Two additional presentations, Joy Garden Tour, set for July 15-19, is a celebration Joy Garden Tour is a biennial free and open to the public, will be of the magic and beauty of carefully tended gardens and fundraiser for The Village Green, held on Saturday, July 18, at The their glorious flora. the 12.5-acre park in the heart of Village Green Commons. Noted Garden Club of America floral design judges Buff Adams and Julie Cashiers. The Village Green depends on the support of donors Spear will demonstrate floral arrangements for special occasions and and benefactors to operate and improve the park for everyone’s holidays at 11:30 A.M. Later that day, Norman Askins will speak on enjoyment. For more information or to purchase tickets to one of incorporating architecture in landscape design at 1:30 P.M. Mr. Askins the events during Joy Garden Tour, call (828) 743-3434 or email is an award-winning architect and the author of “Houses with Charm: info@villagegreencashiersnc.com.

To learn more, visit villagegreencashiersnc.com.

Simple Southern Style.” In addition to the Saturday speaker events,

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EVENTS

Live Music in Highlands

by Mary Jane McCall Downtown Highlands swings with live music performances this July – Friday nights at Town Square and Saturdays at Kelsey-Hutchinson Park.

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here’s nothing quite like settling in with your friends and family at twilight to listen to live music in downtown Highlands.

The sun is setting, the air is cooling, and folks of all ages are ready to come out and play. These neighborhood gatherings are part of what makes our community so special and each weekend you’ll have two chances to join in the fun.

Friday Night Live performances take place in the heart of downtown at Highlands Town Square. Performances are from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M., so many folks stop by after an early dinner, or before a late dinner to takes in the sounds. Performing on July 3 is local favorite The Johnny Webb Band. Their country favorites are always a crowd pleaser.

On July 10 the Mountain Dulcimer Band performs. This group is dedicated “to promote interest in learning, playing, and performing traditional and contemporary music written and arranged for the Appalachian Mountain Dulcimer.” Anyone with a love of this traditional music shouldn’t miss this performance. July 17 brings

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Joe Jones and the Tallulah River Band to the stage with traditional bluegrass music with comic flair thrown in for entertainment. On July 24 you can see Southern Highlands, and on July 31 it’s The Dover Boys Medicine Show.

Saturdays on Pine are held at the newly renovated KelseyHutchinson Park. Taking the stage on July 4 is Fritz Beer and the Crooked Beat. This acoustic band’s sound covers rock, country, soul, and blues. The Hobohemians from Athens, Georgia, will be in town on July 11 with their renditions of good time music from the 1910’s, 20’s and 30’s. Christopher August plays on July 18. This “freestylin’” band is known for a rockin’ good time.

Make plans now to come out with your friends and family and enjoy Highlands’ thriving music scene. One visit won’t be enough.

We think you’ll come back again and again.

For more information about Saturdays on Pine or Friday Night Live contact the Highlands Chamber of Commerce at (828) 526-2112.

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1,000 Brilliant Bursts EVENTS

Cashiers preserves the glory of a small-town Fourth of July celebration with music and spectacular fireworks – Saturday, July 4, at the Village Green.

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ireworks are a quintessential American celebration of Independence Day. In Cashiers, The Village Green presents the third annual Fireworks Extravaganza On the Green beginning at 6:30 P.M. Saturday, July 4, at The Village Green Commons. Residents and visitors to the area are invited to dine, play and dance the night away.

The spectacular evening entertainment features a concert by the rhythm and blues band The Extraordinaires. The band plays all the classics from a wide variety of artists including Wilson Pickett, The O’Jays, The Temptations, Bruce Springsteen, Black Crows and Pharrell Williams.

“The Extraordinaires will have you up dancing the night away,” says Ann Self, Executive Director of The Village Green. She also says to bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on. Picnics and coolers are welcome.

The main event, of course, is the breathtaking fireworks display that will begin shortly after dark.

“More than 1,000 brilliant and colorful bursts will light up the Cashiers’ night sky,” says Self. She adds that the show will last about 30 minutes and will be accompanied by a soundtrack that pays tribute

to America with patriotic music.

Admission is free, however donations to a community fireworks fund will be collected at popular parking locations and at The Village Green to help with the cost of the event.

Many small towns have been forced to eliminate fireworks because of the expense of putting on a pyrotechnic display.

“The Village Green thinks it is important to celebrate America’s birthday with a fireworks show for the community – it’s an important tradition,” states Joe Thompson, Chairman of The Village Green Board of Directors.

The Village Green is the 12.5 acre park for free, public enjoyment in the center of Cashiers with boundaries extending from Highway 64 to Frank Allen Road.

“What many people don’t realize is that The Village Green receives no government funding,” says Self. “This public treasure depends on the generosity of those who financially support The Village Green.”

For more information, visit villagegreencashiersnc.com. You can also “Like” The Village Green on Facebook or follow on Twitter @ cashiersgreen.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com

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EVENTS

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EVENTS

2014 CHHS Humane Heroes of the Year Wanda and Chuck Cooper with WHLC-FM, and star of Animal Planet’s “It’s Me or the Dog” and world-renowned dog training expert Victoria Stilwell.

Humane Heroes

by Jenny King | Photo by Martha Boone

Every dog and cat gets its day thanks to the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society’s A Celebration of Humane Heroes, September 1 at The Farm at Old Edwards Inn. For information or tickets, call (828) 743-5752 or email info@chhumanesociety.org.

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he Second Annual Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society’s A Celebration of Humane Heroes will be held Tuesday, September 1, from 6:00 to 10:00 P.M at The Farm at Old Edwards Inn – one of the most elegant and sought-after event venues in the mountains of North Carolina.

This premier fundraiser for our area’s very own no-kill shelter is an evening filled with warm and fuzzy thanks, great kibble, and many chances to howl with your friends. The evening features a scrumptious southern barbecue dinner from Cashiers Farmers Market, beer, wine and spirits, and live music by Atlanta-based Banks & Shane, a high-energy, hard-kicking, blow-the-roof-off band that has performed to capacity crowds around the world.

A highlight of this fundraiser and “fun-raiser” for the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society will be the presentation of the coveted awards for “Humane Heroes of the Year.”

Two awards will be bestowed, one to an individual and the other to a business, who have significantly contributed their time, heart and

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resources to help further the mission of CHHS on behalf of the abandoned and neglected animals in the community.

Last year’s recipients were WHLC FM 104.5’s very own Chuck and Wanda Cooper who were awarded the Business Humane Hero of the Year award.

The individual honor went to long-time volunteer and photographer Martha “Marty” Boone.

The Second Annual A Celebration of Humane Heroes is limited to just 200 guests for a fun-filled experience and a true party for the animals!

Tickets are $195 per person ($390 per couple), and tables of 10 can be reserved for $1,800. A portion of the ticket purchase is a generous, taxdeductible contribution to help CHHS rescue more animals and find more forever homes, and provide vital community outreach programs such as humane education, pet therapy, and low-cost spay/neuter.

A Celebration of Humane Heroes is expected to sell out quickly, so purchase your tickets today. For more information on tickets, to learn how you might become a sponsor, or to donate items for the live auction, call CHHS at (828) 743-5752 or email info@chhumanesociety.org.

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Big Ol ’ Country Breakfast EVENTS

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by Donna Rhodes

on the job, chances are he has no elebrate the Spirit of America by eating a lot of delicious, workman’s compensation, leaving his family with no means of support.” hearty food at the Ninth Annual That’s why Fishes and Loaves is a Big Ol’ Mountain Country Breakfast. godsend to many in the area.

It’ll be held from 7:00 to 11:00 A.M. “Just last month Fishes & Loaves Saturday, July 4, at the Cashiers Community Center. distributed 290 boxes of canned and packaged food, plus meat, It’s a great way to celebrate bread, and fresh vegetables, to Independence Day by freeing yourself from worries about calories and carbs!

198 households,” says Tyler. “This amounts to 4,504 pounds of food.”

This breakfast promises to be the And that means a lot of hard work yummiest ever, worth every delicious, Food, glorious food, is served up by the plateful at Fishes and on the part of many volunteers and buttery bite. Pancakes, eggs, bacon, donators to secure, plan, and prepare sausage, biscuits, gravy, grits, coffee, Loaves’ unforgettable Big Ol’ Mountain Country Breakfast, 7:00 to 11:00 A.M. Saturday, July 4, at the Cashiers Community Building. food for distribution. and juice in a one-trip, mountain-tall Your donations also sponsor other plateful is guaranteed to satisfy the wonderful causes like food-for-life food boxes for families (three cans biggest appetite.

One hundred percent of the proceeds go right back into Fishes and each of veggies, meat and fruit, two cans of soup, dried beans, spaghetti Loaves’ coffers to provide food for the hungry. We, and those whom we sauce, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, and peanut butter) and the serve, deeply appreciate your donations. We enjoy giving you a BBE (Best Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.

And don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Empty Bowls Soup Breakfast Ever) in exchange for your generosity. Tickets are at the door.

Bill Tyler, volunteer for F&L says, “We help feed a diverse population Luncheon, Sunday, October 4, at the Zachary-Tolbert House Pavilion. from seniors who are struggling on fixed incomes to hourly laborers After your big ol’ breakfast, you’ll be hungry by then!

For more information about volunteering, donating, or who often have trouble making it through a rough winter.” Add to that rising cost of gasoline, heating oil, and food and many deserving folks receiving contact Bill (828) 506-6170, Larry (828) 508-0378, or simply can’t make ends meet. And if an hourly wage employee gets hurt Howard (828) 577-5100.

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Antiques and Education EVENTS

by Jenny King

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buy one ticket for all three days and enjoy ark you calendars for Friday, July 24 when the 39th Cashiers Annual catered food and garden dining. As always, a lovely vintage quilt (pictured with Blue Benefit Antiques Show opens Ridge Students and Principal) will be given at the Blue Ridge School in Cashiers, 95 to some lucky show-goer at the end of Bobcat Drive, Highway 107 North. Sixty the show. Each paid attendee will receive exhibitors from the U.S. and Great Britain fill the school with an amazing array of a card to fill out for the drawing. Also available is a second quilt, which will be antiques for this three-day event. Many raffled toward a scholarship for a Blue people return each year and plan their Ridge School graduating senior. Tickets summer vacations around the show will be available at the show and that quilt because of the as stonishing variety of will be on display as well. antiques available in air-conditioned comfort. You’ll find silver; jewelry; Oriental Tickets will be available at the door for a donation of $10.00 or $9.00 with any media rugs; quilts; furniture; porcelains from ad. Look for discount cards at select stores Europe, Asia, and the United States; all in the area. Wheelchairs will be offered for types of pottery, from fanciful pieces of (L to R): Gavin Westerman; Adam Holt, Principal BRS those in need and volunteers will happily the Art Nouveau era to the much-coveted Early College; Jacob Ladd, Kimberly Rodriguez; Cameron assist. Pets are not allowed but service Southern and folk pottery. Love antique Fowler; Jasmyne Watson; animals are always welcome. So, “Come toys? You’ll be thrilled to find everything Teri Walawender, Principal BRS; Jordan Ferrin Celebrate the Mountains” at the 39th from toy soldiers to country toys to mechanical wonders. Romantic vintage linens from the Victorian era to the Annual Cashiers Benefit Antiques Show. Show dates are: Friday, July 24 40’s will be offered as well as fine vintage purses and accessories. Experts and Saturday, July 25, 9:00 A.M. ‘til 5:00 P.M. and Sunday, July 26, 11:00 will have rare music boxes and fine barometers available, as well as their A.M. ‘til 4:00 P.M. at Blue Ridge School. For questions please call Hazel repair. Fine art framing can be arranged and there will be paintings, prints, Giles, Show Coordinator at (828) 743-9270 or (828) 226-5325. Also visit and etchings for purchase. Hand engraving can be done on site for silver, the website at cashiersannualantiqueshow.com or Facebook at Cashiers gold, and pewter as well as the repair of chipped stemware. Shoppers can Benefit Antique Show.

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EVENTS

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EVENTS

A Phenomenal Fourth

by Mary Jane McCall Highlands’ Fourth of July festivities is a celebration of the best of Small Town Life.

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uly 4.

It’s time to put on your red, white and blue and join your neighbors in some patriotic good fun.

Highlands knows how to celebrate Independence Day with a long standing tradition of starting the festivities early in the day, and ending them after dark with a bedazzling fireworks display.

Start your day at 9:00 A.M. with the water rocket building and launch at the town baseball field with other classic field games for adults and kids to follow at 11:00 A.M. You will also have a chance to see the MAMA helicopter and cool off with a shower from the Highlands Fire Department ladder truck.

The annual Rotary Barbecue starts at the same time at the KelseyHutchinson Park. Back by popular will be the Wilson Barbecue Plate. Doc Wilson and his pit masters have perfected the art of great barbecue. It’s always a great idea to get there early to ensure that you get to enjoy this traditional July 4 feast.

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Enjoy free music while enjoying your barbecue picnic. You can also pick up a plate at the ball field if you’re there enjoying the games.

At 1:00 P.M. at Mill Creek (next to Sweet Treats) the Rotary Club will hold its annual Rubber Ducky Derby. Purchase a rubber duck for $10 and cheer it on to the finish line for a chance to win prizes and bragging rights. At 6:30 P.M., be back at the Kelsey Hutchinson Park where our local scout troops will do a Flag Retirement Ceremony.

This is a great opportunity to support our scouts and thank them for all they do in our community.

At 8:00 P.M. there will be a patriotic sing at the Presbyterian Church. This free concert lasts for approximately 45 minutes, ensuring that you have plenty of time to claim your spot to watch the magnificent fireworks show, sponsored by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center. The display starts around 9:00 P.M. and caps off the perfect small town Fourth of July celebration.

For questions about any of the activities, please call (828) 526-2112.

EVENTS

Engage With Learning Contributed by Bonnie Dayton From the stormy future of Russia to the treasured heritage of the Cherokee, The Center for Life Enrichment’s July offerings are rich in possibilities.

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f you’re looking for things to do to fill your hot July days, then a class at the Center for Life Enrichment is your answer.

Our topics this month are vast and wide ranging with something sure to interest everyone.

For example, climate change is a critical topic and Elizabeth Kiss of Agnes Scott College will delve into the issue in “The Sustainability Challenge: Living, Learning & Leading in an Era of Climate Change.”

Russia’s history and geopolitical future are explored in a trio of classes. Join us in “Russia’s First Crimean War” taught by Erin Tasar Professor of History at UNC Chapel Hill; or “Russia’s Business Climate and Its Future,” and “Russia After the Wall Came Down & Current Political Climate” both presented by Gerald Barber who lived and worked in Russia on and off since 1970 and was one of the first Americans to own a business there.

Our class assortment covers wonderful lectures on chamber music and its origins, in conjunction with performances at the HighlandsCashiers Chamber Music Festival, the poetic words of Milton, computers, the songs of activist Pete Seeger, as well as the crafts and traditions of the Cherokee Indians, painting in watercolors and so much more.

Don’t miss the chance to fill your summer days with a fun and engaging class or lecture at the Center for Life Enrichment. For more information on classes or becoming a member of CLE call (828) 526-8811 or visit the website clehighlands.com or come by the office located in the lower level of the Peggy Crosby Center on 348 South Fifth Street.

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Annual Auction and Bazaar EVENTS

Contributed by Suzanne Arthur

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The dazzling items offered at the Church of the Good Shepherd’s Auction and Bazaar, slated for Friday, July 10, and Saturday, July 11, span the gamut of treasures.

hurch of the Good Shepherd will hold its annual Auction and Bazaar Friday, July 10, and Saturday, July 11. The fun begins with live and silent auctions that will be held Friday at the church on Highway107 South in Cashiers. Admission is $5.

Bidding on silent auction items will take place from 4:00 to 6:15 P.M. Friday. Refreshments will be served from 5:00 to 6:15 P.M. with a wine and beer bar on the deck. The Live Auction begins promptly at 6:30 P.M. Silent Auction items include artwork; gift certificates from local merchants for dining and golf; stunning jewelry; an American Girl doll; specialty cakes and much more. The Live Auction will include a stay in a seven-bedroom home in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina; a stay in a three-bedroom condo in Barcelona, Spain; two rare prints; a stay in a pied-a-terre in Arlington, Virginia within a short distance of Washington; a picnic lunch and a cruise on Lake Glenville for eight; and many more exciting items.

Live auction items up for bid this year include exclusive destination vacations as well as gourmet dinners and many other exciting items.

This year’s auction is chaired by Malinda Allen.

The Bazaar, now in its 30th year, is a huge event held at the Cashiers Community Center on Saturday from 9:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. Enjoy breakfast starting at 8:00 A.M. with sausage biscuits, coffee, and juice being sold under the food tent. Hot dogs, hamburgers or chicken sandwiches with chips and sodas will be offered beginning at 11:00 A.M. There will be a children’s craft tent and the fire department will let the

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children play on the antique fire truck.

In the gymnasium and under the tents, you’ll find antiques, artwork, baskets, bric-a-brac, books, children’s items, furniture, rugs, kitchenware, linens, pottery, and sporting goods. There is also a garden area. There are many fine items from multiple estates generously donated to the bazaar.

Also, don’t forget to stop by Heavenly Foods to take home some fresh or frozen casseroles, apple pies, soups, jellies, and baked goods.

Raffle tickets will be on sale for an expanded offering of items with more opportunities to win some great prizes including a TV, valuable gas cards, a Kindle, and many other great items.

All of the exciting items for sale or auction have generously been donated by the people of Cashiers. Donations are still being accepted up until the weekend of the event and can be dropped off at the church on weekdays from 9:00 A.M. until 4:00 P.M. Large items can be picked up by calling the church office at (828) 743-2359. They are unable to accept items such as adult clothing, exercise equipment, sofas, recliners, mattresses, microwaves, televisions, and small appliances not in working condition.

Bazaar chairs Donna and Rick Barrs have worked along with numerous volunteers throughout the year to make this year’s event a success. The Good Shepherd Outreach Program donates all proceeds from the Auction and Bazaar directly to the community through various organizations and agencies.

EVENTS

Wild Pickin’s The glories of local gardens are spotlighted by Dovecote’s irresistible July workshops. To register, visit dargan.com/dovecote-events, call (828) 743-0307 or contact Mary Palmer Dargan at mpdargan@dargan.com.

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mountain garden in July means rockin’ on the porch, enjoying friends, and puttering in the garden.

Time for gentle pursuits like picking blackberries or making cornbread.

How about some gardening lectures to add a little zip to your summer days?

Learn to make floral arrangements from wild pickin’s alongside the road with Jodie Zahner, The Barefoot Gardener on Friday, July 10. Jodie is back by popular demand to share her secrets of success with home, wedding, and country club floral design.

Doug Selph, an artist of great acclaim in the world of pressed floral design, presents a workshop at Dovecote on Saturday, July 18. His inspired approach of pressing and placing floral art behind glass will inspire you to preserve your summer garden memories.

Children of all ages love miniature gardens, including parents and grands! Join landscape architect Mary Palmer Dargan as she shakes out her secret sauce of miniature garden design on Friday, July 24.

Need to fit your landscape to your lifestyle like a glove? Join a limited, nimble group of garden enthusiasts on Friday, July 31, for “Gardens on the Hoof,” a half-day-long workshop designed to improve your home environment.

Organic Gardening is the theme for August, so stay tuned for John McCarley on Friday, August 7.

The Garden Talk Salon is on Fridays at 10:00 A.M. at Dargan’s Dovecote Porch & Gardens located at 35 Flash Point Lane in Cashiers, NC ( next to Cornucopia on Hwy 107). Please join us to meet gardening friends. Register at dargan.com/dovecote-events, call (828) 743-0307 or contact Mary Palmer Dargan at mpdargan@dargan.com.

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Groovin’ on the Green EVENTS

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by Mary Jane McCall

pop/rock music, this band has been roovin’ On The Green, sponsored by the Greater together since the 80’s, entertaining audiences young and old at the finest Cashiers Area Merchants venues in central and south Florida.

Association, is a Cashiers area “must Get ready to dance the night away! do” on Friday nights.

As always, GCAMA would like to These evenings promise something for everyone and the express their appreciation to their sponsor -- Biltmore, Landmark, musical groups who perform Friends of Lake Glenville, Play encompass all genres of music. This July you’ll want to make plans to be On, Signal Ridge Marina, Cashiers Farmers Market, Mica’s, Cork & there and not miss any of the fun.

Barrel Lounge, Exxon, Highlands On July 10, rising country music Playhouse, Wendy’s, WHLC FM star with local roots Erica Nicole 104.5, Cruise Planners, Midnight will be performing. Last year was a break-out year for this vocal Farms, Crossroads Chronicle and WNC Magazine. Their continued powerhouse. She had two hit singles support makes the Groovin’ on the country charts, “I Listen To My Groovin’ on the Green, Cashiers’ Friday night musical showcase, series possible.

Bad Girl” and “It’s Coming Down.” promises to heat up those July nights. Everyone is invited Concerts are held rain or shine and This year promises to be another to this series of free concerts. admission is always free (donations successful year for Erica as her tour are appreciated). Bring your lawn chairs, kids, dogs, guests, friends, and kicks into high gear and her eagerly awaited album is released.

July 24 brings Western North Carolina country rock artist Joe Lasher Jr. family and join us for a great time! Don’t forget to pack a picnic and bring to the stage. Though only 18 years old, Joe fronts his own band of young a cooler with your favorite beverages. If you don’t have time to plan musicians whose youth belies their mature sound. Their love of music is ahead and prepare a picnic, just stop at one of the local eateries and order a to-go meal. contagious, so their return is certain to be a crowd pleaser.

We’ll see you on the Green.

The Dane Michael Group closes out the month on July 31. Playing

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EVENTS

Walk, Run, Roll, Stroll

by Jenny King Highlands’ Annual Twilight Rock ‘n Roll 5k is slated for Saturday, August 22 at the Kelsey-Hutchinson Park on Pine Street.

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he 3rd Annual Rotary Club of Highlands’ Twilight Rock ‘n Roll 5k will be held on Saturday, August 22 at the Kelsey-Hutchinson Park on Pine Street in downtown Highlands. Proceeds from the race will benefit the Highlands Hurricanes youth swim team. The race begins at 6:00 P.M. with check-in at 4:00 P.M. and last-minute participants can register at check-in. Highlands Decorating Center’s Derek Taylor is once again spearheading this fundraising event and encourages everyone to attend. It’s not just for runners so children, walkers, and families with strollers are invited to participate. The course is undulating, yet beginners or walkers will find it friendly while the faster runners will be challenged. If you don’t want to walk or run, Taylor invites you to come join them for the music and watch the race.

Live music by Tea 4 Three will keep the energy rocking during and after

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the race until 10:00 P.M. and any racer (of legal age) crossing the finish line can quench their thirst with a beer from the Ugly Dog Pub. Parking will be available around the park. Bring chairs, coolers, refreshments, and blankets to Kelsey Hutchinson Park and spend the evening. T-shirts are guaranteed if you’re registered before July 22; after that, it’s first come first served. The kids can get glow-sticks, too. Register online at Webscorer.com. The cost is $30 and if you register on race day it’s $35.

Awards will be presented to the overall top male and female finisher; Masters and Grand Masters first place; and top 3 finishers in each 5-year age division. Kids under 10 can run for free.

For registration information, visit TwilightRocknroll5k.com or contact Derek Taylor at (828) 526-3571. You may also contact Lester Norris at the Highlands Rec Park, (828) 526-3556.

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EVENTS

Rotary Bingo for Literacy

by Wiley Sloan Fun, raucous and drenched in laughter, Rotary Bingo is a singular entertainment on the community’s Social Calendar – Thursday, July 9.

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hursday, July 9, you’ll have the opportunity to support the Literacy Council of Highlands as you fill the Highlands Community Building for Rotary Bingo. Located on Highway 64 just a few blocks from Highlands’ Main Street (next door to the ball park), there is parking galore. We all enjoy winning a little extra spending money and it’s especially exciting when you know that you’re supporting a worthwhile community organization. Bring your friends and fill up a table or two.

As a winner you can donate all your winnings back to the Literacy Council to underwrite their many programs.

If you have reason to believe that luck is never your companion at Bingo, there’s always at least one game of “The Biggest Loser.” The last person to cover their card wins a prize. So even you can pocket some cash.

Where else can you have a complete evening of fun for only $15?

That’s one card for each of 15 games. Talk about cheap thrills!

The Literacy Council helps so many people in our area. Youngsters who need tutoring in any subject, adults who wish to obtain their GED, and people of all ages who need to learn English as a second language are just a few of the many programs that the Literacy Council offers.

Why not go the second mile and become a table sponsor? This opportunity is open to business owners and individuals. A onepage ad is only $50; half-page ads $25. Make your checks payable to Literacy Council of Highlands and send them to 348 South Fifth Street, Highlands, NC 28741. Call the Literacy Council of Highlands at (828) 526-0863 to purchase an ad.

Remember to stay to the end. Game Number 15 gives you the chance to win some serious money. Laugh a lot, share with friends and support the Literacy Council of Highlands.

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Men’s Chorus Kicks off Fireworks Contributed by Angie Jenkins Rain or shine, First Presbyterian Church of Highlands will stage its magnificent Patriotic Concert at 8:00 P.M. Saturday, July 4.

Everyone is invited to this free event.

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irst Presbyterian Church of Highlands will present its annual patriotic concert at 8:00 P.M. Saturday, July 4.

The free concert will last approximately 50 minutes, ensuring plenty of time to watch the town fireworks display.

Featured will be the Highlands Male Chorus under the direction of Joe Powell, with Carol Guise as accompanist; Larry Black

on trumpet; and Angie Jenkins on pipe organ. Come dressed as you are.

In the event the fireworks display is cancelled due to rain, the concert will still take place. The church is located at the corner of Main and Fifth Streets. Handicapped accessible entrances are located on Church Street and on Fifth Street.

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Dinner, Dancing, by Design EVENTS

by Jenny King Summer is anything but sleepy at The Goodman Cottage, the Cashiers Historical Society’s 2015 Designer Showhouse ™.

For tickets to the Showhouse and its accompanying events, visit cashiershistoricalsociety.org.

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he Cashiers Historical Society invites you to attend the 2015 Cashiers Designer Showhouse ™, August 22-30, at The Goodman Cottage on the grounds of the Wade Hampton Golf Club.

The Goodman Cottage is a large, yet intimate, cottage in the iconic Cashiers Style. Built in 1990, this multi-generational family home has been lovingly cared for while providing a respite from the world. It’s spacious yet private with gaming, office, and sitting areas, large and inviting bedrooms with en suite baths, and gracious and expansive areas for entertaining including the requisite Carolina Porch, complete with fireplace.

Fifteen regional and area design professionals join four area landscape professionals in creating transformative style commensurate with current design trends at this three-acre cottage estate.

The festivities open with the Benefactor’s Party on Sunday, August 16, catered by The Chattooga Club.

On Friday, August 21, the Opening Night Patron Party will offer a preview of the Showhouse followed by dinner and dancing on the grounds of the Wade Hampton Golf Club. Special celebrity presenter Clinton Smith, Editor in Chief of Veranda Magazine, will speak at the

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Country Club of Sapphire Valley at 11:00 A.M. on the 22nd. A limited number of tickets are available for this luncheon presentation, sponsored by ADAC. Tuesday, August 25, Jim Thompson presents “The Man, the Myth, the Making of the Thai Silk Industry” at the Goodman Cottage.

Thursday, August 27, at the Showhouse, is “Mash & Pig, A Sultry Southern Summer Evening with James Farmer,” sponsored by McKee Properties. Saturday, August 29, the Wade Hampton Clubhouse is hosting “A Gem of a Brunch with Pearls” by Dawn Corley, “Gracious Rooms” by Barbara Westbrook and stunning tabletops curated by Replacements Inc. Showhouse Shops and The Chattooga Cafe will be open 11:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. daily on the Zachary Tolbert grounds, located on Highway 107 South. Both are open to the public.

Daily ticket holders will find Pop Up Shops at the Goodman Cottage on the weekends from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Daily admission is $35 and shuttle transportation is available to and from the Showhouse. This annual week-long event provides funding for the Cashiers Historical Society and tickets may be purchased by visiting cashiershistoricalsociety.org. For more information, please call at (828) 743-7710.

Be Young. Be Foolish. Be Happy.

EVENTS

by Jenny King

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a couple of hours and simply enjoy. e Young. Be Foolish. Be Happy.

Sing along with The Tams at His drive, along with his dynamic voice and excellent showmanship, the Sapphire Valley Concert on has gained him a loyal following. the Slopes, Tuesday, July 14.

Then, on Sunday, September 6, The Concert on the Slopes series you won’t want to miss The Flying opened last month and will continue through September. The Tams have Saucers. While this band is hard to describe, their music isn’t. Bringing been entertaining audiences for over to the stage Rockabilly, Doo Wop, 50 years with their mix of Classic Motown, and British Invasion R&B and Soul but have managed to they’ll have you up and dancing in keep their show fresh and exciting short order. and appealing to audiences of all ages.

All concerts begin at 7:00 P.M. and ticket prices are $20. If you Also on the bill for July is The purchase your ticket on the day of Highlands-Sapphire Men’s Chorus, the show it costs $25, but a season who will perform “A Patriotic Salute Sapphire Valley’s Concert on the Slopes series brings pass costs only $60. They’ll also to America” on Friday, July 3, in exciting sounds to this corner of Western North Carolina. supply a personal, reserved table conjunction with Sapphire Valley Look for the Tams on July 14 and tent with early reservations.

Resort’s July 4 Yankee Doodle and The Highlands-Sapphire Men’s Chorus on July 3.

These family-friendly outdoor Dandy Day Celebration. Nothing concerts are held on the Sapphire will get you in the spirit like this Valley Ski Slopes, behind the Sapphire Valley Community Center, 3 thrilling performance.

On Tuesday, August 11, Performer Todd Allen Herendeen brings his miles east of Cashiers on Highway 64. Bring a chair or blanket and high-spirited energy to the concert slopes. His goal every night as he prepare to be entertained. For tickets and further information, call walks on stage is for everyone to forget their worries or troubles for (828) 743-7663.

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Walk to Win EVENTS

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by Mary Jane McCall

It is not too late to participate ow do you turn a disease as devastating as cancer into in the planning of this year’s event, or to form a team to join the walk. something positive?

Carrie Shuler, our community liaison You fight back! You honor those at the American Cancer Society, is who’ve fought the disease and working to infuse new life into this lost, and those who’ve fought the disease and won, by giving back. annual event and is looking forward to welcoming new members on One of the ways you can give the planning committee as well. back in Highlands is by becoming part of the annual Relay for Life Corporate sponsorships are also still needed to help meet our goal celebration. This year it will be of raising $40,000 this year. There held on August 7 from 6:00 P.M. is an opportunity for everyone who until Midnight at the Highlands is interested to get involved to help Recreation Park. make this event a success.

Relay for Life is a unique event As always, festivities start with that honors those individuals and opening ceremonies followed families who have been affected by Highlands’ Relay for Life is a fun, positive way to battle cancer and by the annual Survivor Walk at this awful disease, but it also gives honor those who’ve faced this serious malady.

6:15 P.M. Entertainment, games, our community a chance to come Everyone is invited to join, 6:00 P.M. to Midnight Friday, August 7 and food are still in the planning together to celebrate life while at Highlands Rec Park. stages but rest assured that there raising funds for the American Cancer Society. Through the years the Highlands event has been ever will be something for everyone to enjoy.

Please feel free to contact Carrie Shuler at (828) 788-3525 to find out evolving and this year is a transition year for our relay with the hours shortened to one evening instead of overnight so that everyone will more about this event and to volunteer at this year’s event. You can also check out the official website at cancer.org. have a chance to participate from beginning to end.

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Cashiers Library EVENTS

July Events

by Luke Osteen

A series of free programs at Albert Carlton-Cashiers C ommunity Library will expand patrons’ minds.

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lbert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library is hosting the Peak Your Interest Series of Interesting Talks this month.

Presented by the Friends of the Library, the talks are free and open to the public.

On July 7, NC Cooperative Extension Service Agent Christine Bredenkamp will present “Fall Vegetable Gardening” at 10:00 A.M. She’ll explain the process of putting your garden to bed, saving seeds and planting with cool season vegetables. In addition, she’ll talk about the basics of seed selection, harvesting and processing.

Storyteller extraordinaire Doug Elliot presents a cultural tour of North America’s back country with “Woods Lore and Wildlife Wisdom” at 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, July 7. He’ll deliver a lively collection of traditional tales, ancient legends, folklore, and personal stories occasionally set to music.

Readers of Laurel know the wonderful research and writings of Cashiers historian Jane Nardy. She and Carol Bryson and Keven Hawkins of the Cashiers Historical Society will present “Settling Cashiers” at 1:00 P.M. Friday, July 10. It’s an intimate look at the colorful characters and unexpected events that shaped this little valley community.

Artist Paul Farmer, a visual artist with The Bascom’s Winter Resident Artist Program, delivers “Final Cut at 10:00 A.M. Friday, July 17. He’ll bridge that gap between painting and sculpture and illustrate how so much of his inspiration comes from the natural world.

The library will stage its third annual Playfest, Friday July 24. Nine short plays (approximately 10 minutes each) will be presented by local thespians. Mostly comedies, the nine were selected from an original pool of over 100 works. Those in attendance will vote on the plays with a People’s Choice Award for 1st place garnering that playwright a $100 prize, and the 2d and 3d place plays $50 each.

For information on these programs, contact the library at (828) 743-0215.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com

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Lunch for Literacy

by Luke Osteen The Literacy Council of Cashiers’ Lunch for Literacy, set for Friday, July 3, is a delicious way to support the council’s vital work in Southern Jackson County.

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o you like to eat? Do you think reading is important?

If your answer is “yes” to both of these questions, then here’s a fun event for you to join. Gather a group of your friends and have lunch on Friday, July 3, at The Zookeeper Bistro and On the Side Barbecue. These restaurants are donating a percentage of their receipts for that day to the Literacy Council of Cashiers. Taking a different tack, The Orchard Restaurant, Slabtown Pizza, and the Cork and Barrel Lounge in Sapphire have made direct donations.

The Literacy Council of Cashiers is hosting its fifth annual Lunch for Literacy, the chance for residents of Southern Jackson County and local restaurants to boost local literacy efforts.

The generosity of these restaurants is vital to the mission of the Literacy Council. It supports the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, quarterly book giveaways for students at Summit School and Blue Ridge School, and the 5 on 5 Summer Book Program at Blue Ridge.

The Literacy Council of Cashiers has partnered with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to provide children from birth to age five living in the Cashiers, Glenville, and Sapphire zip codes a free age-appropriate book monthly in the mail. This program is completely free for families as the Literacy Council pays the sponsorship fee for each child to be in the program.

Other activities the Literacy Council sponsors are special story times for preschoolers, workshops on how parents can help their child learn to love reading, and computer assisted learning at Blue Ridge School in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Cashiers Valley.

If you’d like to add an additional donation or volunteer to help the Literacy Council, please mail a donation to The Literacy Council of Cashiers, PO Box 791, Cashiers, NC 28717 or call (828) 508-9384 with questions or to volunteer. If you’d like to register your child for the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program, you’ll find registration forms at the Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library.

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EVENTS

Warm Stove, Cool Kitchen Contributed by Lila Howland | Photo by Helen Moore Highlands’ Laurel Garden Club’s Kitchen Tour, set for Saturday, August 22, highlights the marvelous homes and wonderful personalities that enrich the community.

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ighlands’ Laurel Garden Club is planning another fabulous tour of kitchens Saturday, August 22, from 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. Six unique kitchens from special Highlands homes will be featured, including two historic homes, one luxurious log cabin, a cutting edge downtown “penthouse,” and two state of the art mountain homes with spectacular views.

An added bonus: glimpses of the interiors and gardens can be had as well.

Among the celebrity guests at the homes will be novelist Cassandra King, author of “Moonrise,” along with Janice Owens, Florida writer and author of “The Cracker Kitchen, A Cookbook in Celebration of Cornbread-Fed, Down Home Family Stories and Cuisine.” King and Owens are co-authoring a new cookbook, “A Fine Frolic: The Cracker Art of Good Living,” and will be preparing some of their recipes.

Another cookbook author who will be sharing recipes is Jonathan Scott Barrett, whose “Rise and Shine! A Southern Son’s Treasury of Food, Family and Friends” will be published in September. Noted Architect Norman Askins will be autographing his book, “Inspired by Tradition: The Architecture of Norman Davenport Askins” at a house he

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designed. Well-known garden designer Alex Smith also will be present to answer questions in the garden that he designed and installed.

Highlands’ Chad Lucas of Lucas Patton Designs will be on hand in another of the homes for which he did the interior design.

The timed tickets are $65 each and can be purchased at The Dry Sink, 450 Main Street in Highlands, or online at laurelgardenclubhighlands. com. Transportation in private vehicles will be provided from the Performing Arts Center, where you can also visit the Laurel Kitchen Shop and purchase home-cooked casseroles, desserts, cookies, and designer objects for the home.

Proceeds from the tour will be used to fund grants for community projects. Laurel Garden Club has contributed more than $100,000 to the Highlands community.

Sponsors of the tour include Inman Park Marble and Granite; Alex Smith Garden Designs; Norman Davenport Askins, PC, Architect; Lucas Patton Designs; Country Club Properties; The Summer House – Home Furnishings Center; Artist Katherine Bell McClure; Calvin and Baylee Eustis; Wind River Construction; Macon Bank, a Subsidiary of Entegra Financial Corp.; and Atlanta Social Season, Media Sponsor.

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Playhouse Classic Film Festival EVENTS

by Wiley Sloan Highlands Playhouse casts the spotlight on the best films of 1939, an exceptionally rich year for classic movies, with its Classic Film Festival, September 18-20.

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nvite your friends to come for the weekend of September 18-20 and have a house party.

That’s the date for Highlands Playhouse’s First Annual Classic Film Festival. Enjoy seven of the all-time greatest films from the Golden Year of 1939. A remarkably large number of exceptional motion pictures premiered that year.

All Southerners know that “Gone with the Wind” is responsible for the way that life in the rural south is portrayed. Judy Garland’s red slippers became known to every young girl of that era. “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” was nominated for 11 Academy awards that year. These three films plus four more will fill the movie schedule for the three-day weekend celebration.

Looking back in Highlands’ history we see where Highlands School principal Otto Summer offered films in the school’s auditorium (the site of the present Highlands Playhouse) before Highlands got its own theatre in 1948. When the Galax Theatre was opened by Summers and Doc

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A view of the historical marker commemorating the 1939 world premier of the film The Wizard of Oz which stands in front of City Hall downtown Oconomowoc, Wisconsin.

Mitchell, young and old alike enjoyed films of the day here in Highlands. For the next 30 plus years, the lights of the Galax marquee heralded the movie of the week.

To honor the legacy of the Galax Theatre, the Playhouse has joined forces with the historic Highlands Inn to create “Club Galax” in the Inn’s Sequoyah Room.

Here movie buffs will test their movie trivia skills, hear movie experts discuss some of these classic films and just have a relaxing, enjoyable time.

The Playhouse has planned a jam-packed weekend.

Log onto highlandsplayhouse.org or call them at (828) 526-2695 to request a brochure.

Act now to buy your Weekend Pass (only $150), which covers access to Club Galax and all of the seven screenings and the two special discussions. If some of your guests can’t make it for the whole weekend, you can buy tickets, a la carte. Watch for more information in future issues of Laurel.

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EVENTS

Susan Sunflower Contributed by Ann Self The wonders of local habitats are explored in “Get Acquainted with the Natives,” the Village Nature Series program for July.

Master Gardener Susan Sunflower will speak about native plants and pollinators at the Village Green Commons in Cashiers, July 28.

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id you know that the monarch butterfly population is in danger because milkweed is disappearing?

Or that bees are responsible for one in three bites of food we eat, but bees are dying at an alarming rate?

Conserving natural habitats and growing native plants provides food and shelter for wildlife; the benefits are numerous.

“Get Acquainted with the Natives” is the topic of Village Nature Series in July. Susan Sunflower, a native habitat steward and educator, will speak about native plants and pollinators at 5:30 P.M. Tuesday, July 28, at The Village Green Commons on Frank Allen Road in Cashiers.

Ms. Sunflower is a Master Gardener and member of the North Carolina Native Plant Society. The Southern Appalachians are known worldwide for their exceptional variety of plants and animals. The mountains have

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such a diversity because of the highly variable climate, topography, and unique soil conditions. Ms. Sunflower will share her knowledge of native plants and how to utilize them to create your own native habitat in this free speaking event.

The Village Nature Series is sponsored by the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust and The Village Green in Cashiers. Each month, residents and visitors can attend a free presentation to learn more about natural and cultural features of this area. The programs are always at 5:30 P.M. the last Tuesday of each month at The Village Green Commons on Frank Allen Road near the Post Office in Cashiers.

For more information on The Village Nature Series you can visit The Village Green website at villagegreencashiersnc.com and click on the “Events” tab.

Inspired Lineup Contributed by Angie Jenkins Everyone is invited to attend concerts in the Interlude series at the First Presbyterian Church of Highlands and the Episcopal Church of the Incarnation in Highlands – 2:00 P.M. Wednesdays in July and August.

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he summer season of weekly Interlude concerts will begin on July 8. The series is in its 17th season.

The free concerts are sponsored by First Presbyterian Church and the Episcopal Church of the Incarnation, and are held on Wednesdays at 2:00 P.M. Dress is casual. The concerts provide a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life – a time to meditate, relax, and enjoy a variety of music.

Visitors to Highlands are especially invited to join our members and friends at these concerts. This year’s lineup includes: July 8 (Episcopal Church) Robert Henry, piano July 15 (Presbyterian Church) – Presented jointly by Highlands Chamber Music Festival and First Presbyterian Church “The Great Romantics” with music by Chopin and Brahms Norman Krieger, piano July 22 (Episcopal Church) Christina Smith, flute Robert Henry, piano July 29 (Presbyterian Church) St. Paul’s Chamber Choir directed by Trey Clegg August 5 (Episcopal Church) Helen Kim, violin Robert Henry, piano August 12 (Presbyterian Church) Western Carolina University Faculty Concert August 19 (Episcopal Church) Richard Clement, tenor Robert Henry, piano August 26 (Presbyterian Church) Trio Carolina With Oral Moses, bass-baritone

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Trunk Shows at Acorns Boutique EVENTS

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by Jenny King

taste is contemporary or traditional, ighlands is known for its boutique shopping, and some of these four trunk shows offer a bit of sparkle for everyone. the most popular shops in town When it comes to clothing, are at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa. Acorn’s Boutique can help you bring Acorns on Main Street features that one new piece to your wardrobe fine European and American antiques, gifts, jewelry and one-of-a-kind or transform your entire look, no matter the occasion. They have home accessories. Upstairs, shop for several designers lined up for July -designer women’s apparel, handbags and scarves. The trunk shows at Deborah Murphy Designs Clothing, July 3-5; Kay Chapman Clothing, July Acorn’s Boutique have become 10-12; and Vitamin Clothing, July 24highlights of the season for both 26. Classic lines, exceptional fabrics residents and visitors to Highlands. and the most feminine flattering fit It’s an opportunity to see the newest mean you’ll wear your new purchases styles from the most highly recognized with pride. names in the industry, while relaxing On July 25, they’re featuring in the luxurious atmosphere of The collections of Acorns are even more fabulous with the Craven Handbuilt Porcelain Pottery. the boutique. exclusive trunk shows scheduled for July. For more Ian and Jo Lydia Craven are world The month of July offers a full information, visit oldedwardsinn.com/acorns. renowned for the handbuilt porcelain line-up of shows at Acorn’s Boutique dinnerware, wall sculptures, with jewelry, clothing and hand built pottery. They’ll have four jewelry trunk shows during the month of July bowls and vases. After living around the world, they’ve now moved -- July 3-5 will be Mary Louise Designs; July 10-12, Coralia Leets; Jude to North Carolina, where these two artists combine their talents to create sensuous and romantic porcelain pieces. Visit the website at Frances Jewelry, July 17-19; and Alexis Bittar Jewelry July 31-August 2.

Browse from the finest gems and precious metals to find that oldedwardsinn.com/acorns to view their calendar of trunk shows for standout accessory for yourself or someone you love. Whether your the year and call them at (828) 787-1877.

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EVENTS

A Garden of Musical Delights Contributed by Mary Adair Leslie The Episcopal Church of the Incarnation in Highlands will host a pair of events illuminating the beauty of creation and the majesty of the human voice.

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n inspiring and exciting weekend is ahead with the Episcopal Church of the Incarnation in August.

The weekend begins on Saturday, August 8, with an exquisite garden party at the beautiful gardens of Frank Langford in Highlands Falls Country Club. The garden offers imaginative natural design with a woodland garden that contains a miniature Stonehenge and a pond surrounded by wetland plants and accented with a rustic gazebo.

The back garden overlooks the 16th fairway of the golf course and has an enticing rustic bridge crossing a stream that flows into the Cullasaja River. Front gardens display many native plants that accentuate and compliment the lay of the land. This garden is not to be missed!

Rain date for this event is August 9. Time is 5:00 – 7:30 P.M. Wine and hors d’oeuvres will be served as you stroll through the gardens. Tickets are $50 and available through the Church of the Incarnation.

On Sunday, August 9, Incarnation will feature Virginia Schenck, vocalist extraordinaire, during the 10:30 A.M. service. The entire community is

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invited to join this worship service. The festivities continue on Monday, August 10 with a Sacred Jazz concert by Virginia at the Performing Arts Center.

Virginia is an accomplished jazz vocalist who often spices up her shows with world music influences. Whether straight-ahead jazz or free improvisation, Virginia brings immediacy and emotional connectivity to her work as a performing artist. She appears regularly at numerous jazz venues in Atlanta, and has gained a reputation as a singer who is having a major impact locally, nationwide, and internationally. Virginia takes listeners on a pilgrimage with music that is both authentic and soul-inspiring.

“Virginia’s voice and what she does includes the beauty of the Celtic women singers and the intensity of the Middle East,” says Marcus Borg, religious philosopher and author of “The Heart of Christianity.”

To purchase tickets for both events call (828) 526-2968. All proceeds will benefit health and human services in the community.

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EVENTS

Controlled Chaos Film Fest

by Jenny King The Best of Western Carolina University’s Controlled Chaos Film Festival and Benefit will focus on the creations of a talented pool of young filmmakers – August 15 at the Highlands Performing Arts Center.

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f you want to immerse yourself in the brightest and most creative energy in the film world, make plans to attend the Second Annual Best of Western Carolina University’s Controlled Chaos Film Festival and Benefit August 15 at the Highlands Performing Arts Center.

The WCU School of Stage and Screen has, over the years, established itself as one of the top players in the country. The program is headed

by Emmy Award-winning and Oscar-nominated director Jack Sholder who says, “We spend just about half the time we’re not sleeping glued to some kind of screen. By 2018 almost 80 percent of the people on the internet will be watching some kind of video. While we showcase the great work our students do in narrative and non-fiction cinema at the festival, what the program is really all about is teaching students to communicate with visual storytelling -- the universal language of the 21st century.”

In June, a select group of individuals from the Highlands-Cashiers plateau were invited to watch the winning films from the 2015 WCU Controlled Chaos Film Festival. Out of those, they’ve chosen the best

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of the best. Tickets for this benefit are $75 and include a red carpet photo op and reception prior to the screening. At intermission you will have an opportunity to bid on a three-minute business or family video created expressly for you by students and faculty of the Film and Television Program as well as an opportunity to win a featured cameo role for yourself or loved one in a senior thesis film. Students and faculty will be available throughout the event to provide commentary and answer questions. Proceeds from the film festival benefit the School of Stage and Screen, helping to offset the oft-times prohibitive expenses of creating these projects.

The Best of WCU’s Controlled Chaos Film Festival and Benefit will be catered by Mountain Fresh Grocery. Doors open at 6:00 P.M. for the reception with the screenings beginning at 7:00 P.M. Films are rated PG-13, for content and language.

For ticket information, contact (828) 227-7028. After July 13, you may also buy tickets at PAC and at both the Highlands and Cashiers Area Chambers of Commerce.

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Children’s Musical Camp EVENTS

by Luke Osteen Highlands United Methodist Church’s Summer Music Camp, slated for August 3 through 7 at the church, is offered free of charge to children.

The camp will culminate with a musical performed at Kelsey-Hutchinson Park.

E

lementary school-age children are invited to participate in a free musical camp sponsored by Highlands United Methodist Church, to be held at the church August 3-7.

According to HUMC Music Director Les Scott, children of all musical skills levels are welcome to attend.

“Our annual camps have been very popular with children, their parents and their grandparents,” Scott says. “Some of our participants are from Highlands and Cashiers, some are from other parts of the country, some of them have come from as far away as China. We teach them the basics in a fun environment and even though we’re serious about learning, there’s a lot of

laughter involved.”

Over the course of the camp’s five days, participants will learn the songs from a musical play written for the students by Scott and playwright Luke Osteen. “Everywhere I Go” illustrates God’s presence in our lives by highlighting the trials of Old Testament characters. The production is light and laced with gentle humor.

The children will be performing in the play’s premiere August 8 at Kelsey-Hutchinson Park in Highlands. The public is welcome to attend the show.

To register for the musical or more information, call the Highlands United Methodist Church office at (828) 526-3376.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com

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EVENTS

Lafayette Trunk Show at Narcissus

by Jenny King | Photo by Janet Cummings Narcissus celebrates the chic lines of Lafayette 148 New York with a gorgeous Trunk Show, July 10-12.

The boutique is located at 71 Highway 107 South in Cashiers.

G

iuliana Kaufman of Narcissus in Cashiers travels the world to bring back the styles, colors and textures of her journeys.

She knows her customers are sophisticated and discerning and provides them with everything they might need to strike a stunning silhouette.

Among a stellar line-up of her featured designers is Lafayette 148 New York. Giuliana invites you to attend the Lafayette 148 New York trunk show July 10-12. A go-to line for the busy, well-traveled woman, they offer plenty of chic for that real woman looking for effortless style. This classic line draws on the energy and creativity of New York City, where the label was founded nearly two decades ago at its namesake address.

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Their designers are known for weaving contemporary lines from luxurious fabrics in casually refined style. From their Manhattan-based brand headquarters, the international design team works closely alongside artisans at their overseas production house, resulting in an alluring mix of craftsmanship and modern, minimal designs. Lafayette 148 New York owns every aspect of production from conception through creation, offering unparalleled quality and service from season to season. Narcissus in Cashiers is proud to host the Lafayette 148 New York Trunk Show July 10-12. Stop by to discover the newest in exceptional quality, extraordinary fit and remarkable versatility.

Narcissus is located at 71 Highway 107 South in Cashiers and can be reached at (828) 743-7887.

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Mark Your Calendar EVENTS

• JoAnn Williams Walker, painting during the month of July, at The Brier Patch. (828) 526-4110.

• Highlands Playhouse, Anything Goes, July 1-11, (828) 526-2695.

• Evenings at Lakeside: to support local non-profits: July 1 Highlands Playhouse; July 8 - International Friendship Pantry; July 15 - Highlands Chamber Music Festival; July 22 - Highlands Land Trust. (828) 526-9419.

• Friday Night Live, 6:00 until 8:00 P.M. Highlands Town Square.

Johnny Webb Band July 3, Mountain Dulcimer Band, July 10, Joe Jones and the Tallulah River Band July 17, Southern Highlands July 24, Dover Boys Medicine Show July 31, (828) 526-2112.

• Literacy Council of Cashiers Lunch for Literacy, Friday, July 3, (828) 508-9384 • Big Ol’ Mountain Country Breakfast, to benefit Fishes and Loaves Food Pantry, 7:00 to 10:00 A.M. Saturday, July 4, Cashiers Community Center, (828) 743-3222.

• Mary Louise Designs Jewelry, July 3-5, Acorns Boutique, (828) 787-1877.

• Sapphire Valley Concert on the Slopes, Highlands-Sapphire Men’s Chorus Patriotic Salute Friday, July 3, The Tams, Tuesday, July 14, (828) 743-7663.

• Deborah Moore Designs, July 3-5, Acorns Boutique, (828) 787-1877.

• Saturdays on Pine, Kelsey-Hutchinson Park, Fritz Beer and the Crooked Beat July 4, The Hobohemians July 11, Christopher August July 18, (828) 526-2112.

• Highlands Fourth of July activities: field games for adults and kids, 11:00 A.M., Highlands Ball Field; Rotary BBQ 11:00 A.M., Kelsey-Hutchinson Park; Rubber Ducky Derby, Mill Creek; Flag Retirement Ceremony 6:30 P.M. Kelsey-Hutchinson Park; Fireworks Show 9:00 P.M., (828) 526-2112.

• Highlands First Presbyterian Church Patriotic Concert, 8:00 P.M., Saturday, July 4.

• Fireworks Extravaganza featuring the Extradordinaires, 5:30 P.M., Saturday, July 4, The Village Green, (828) 743-3434.

• Highlands Cashiers Chamber Music Festival Concerts, FridayMonday, July 5 to August 9. (828) 526-9060.

• Interlude Concerts, 2:00 P.M., Wednesdays: July 8 (Episcopal Church) Robert Henry, piano; July 15 (Presbyterian Church) Norman Krieger, piano; July 22 (Episcopal Church) Christina Smith, flute and Robert Henry, piano; July 29 (Presbyterian Church) St. Paul’s Chamber Choir directed by Trey Clegg.

• Rotary Literacy Bingo, 7:00 P.M., Thursday, July 9, Highlands Community Building, (828)-526-0863.

• Garden Talk Salons, 10 A.M.: Jodie Zahner, The Barefoot Gardener, Friday, July 10; Doug Selph, pressed floral design workshop, Saturday, July 18; Mary Palmer Dargan, miniature garden design workshop, Friday, July 24; “Gardens on the Hoof” workshop, Friday, July 31; Dargan’s Dovecote Porch & Gardens, (828) 743-0307.

• Coralia Leets Jewelry Trunk Show, July 10-12, Acorns Boutique, (828) 787-1877.

• Lafayette 148 New York Fall Trunk Show, July 10-12, Narcissus, (828) 743-7887 • Kay Chapman, July 10-12, Acorns Boutique, (828) 787-1877.

• Painting at Molly Grace: July 11: Pam Pattillo and July 24 Dawn Laughlin, (828) 526-8390.

• Highlands Cashiers Chamber Music Festival Feast: Dinner with Roman and Will, Saturday, July 11, (828) 526-9060.

• Trinity River performs, 7:00 P.M., Friday, July 10, Nichols Center, (706) 782-9852.

• Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd Annual Live Auction 6:30 P.M. Friday, July 10 and Bazaar 9:00 A.M. Saturday July 11, (828) 743-2359.

• Groovin’ on the Green concerts, sponsored by the Greater Cashiers Area Merchants Association, 6:30 P.M. Erica Nichole July 10, Joe Lasher Jr., July 24, Dane Michael Group July 31.

(828) 743-8428.

• Summer Colors Fine Art Show, 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., July 11-12, Sapphire Valley Community Center, presented by Art League of Highlands-Cashiers, (828) 743-7663.

• Barn Dance, 7:00 to 10 :00 P.M. Saturday, July, 11, The Bascom, (828) 526-4949.

• Joy Garden Tour, July 15-19. For tickets and further information on how to support The Village Green, call (828) 743-3434.

• Highlands Playhouse, Godspell, July 16-August 1, (828) 526-2695.

• Smitten’s Third Thursdays Event features Francis Chicoine, 5:30 P.M. July 16, (828) 526-9300.

• TJ Bailey for Men 30th Birthday Party, 5:00 P.M., Friday, July 17, (828) 526-2262.

• Sapphire Valley Resort Annual Wildlife Mountain Days, July 17-18, (828) 743-7663.

• Emmelle, July 17-19, Acorns Boutique, (828) 787-1877.

• Jude Francis Jewelry, July 17-19, Acorns Boutique, (828) 787-1877.

• Scaly Mountain Women’s Club Annual Auction, 6:00 P.M., Saturday, July 18, Sky Valley Scaly Mountain Fire Department.

• Heart of Horse Cove Eco Tour, Tuesday, July 21, HighlandsCashiers Land Trust, (828) 526-1111.

• Vitamin Clothing Trunk Show, July 24-26, Acorns Boutique, (828) 787-1877.

• Cashiers 39th Annual Antiques Benefit Show, 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., Friday and Saturday, July 24-25 and 11 A.M. to 4 P.M. Sunday, July 26. Blue Ridge School, (828) 743-9270.

• Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library to host Playfest, Friday, July 24, (828) 743-5940, Friends of the Library.

• Scaly Mountain Women’s Club’s Pancake Breakfast, 7:30 A.M. Saturday, July 25, Scaly Mountain School House.

• Craven Handbuilt Porcelain Pottery, July 25, Acorns Boutique, (828) 787-1877.

• Highlands Cashiers Chamber Music Festival Feast: A Creole Feast with the Coucherons, Saturday, July 25, (828) 526-9060.

• Art League of Highlands-Cashiers monthly meeting with local sculptor, John Tolmay, 4:30 P.M., Monday, July 27, The Bascom.

• Village Nature Series: “Get Acquainted with the Natives”, 5:30 P.M., Tuesday. July 28, Village Green, (828) 743-3434.

• Pinnacle Anti Aging Open House, 4:00 until 6:00 P.M., Wednesday, July 29, (828) 743-9362.

• Betsy Paul Art Raffle, to benefit the Cashiers-Glenviile Fire Department, features “Fairfield Lake” painting by Velda Lovell.

Drawing will be held Friday, July 31. (828) 743-0880.

Weekly Events

EVERY MONDAY • Dulcimer Lessons - Intermediate Class 10:00 A.M., Beginners Noon, Highlands United Methodist church, (828) 787-1586.

• Movies at Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

EVERY TUESDAY • Dulcimer Acoustic Jam, 10:00 A.M., Bird Barn and Gift Emporium, Cashiers, (828) 743-3797.

• Highlands Rotary Club, Noon, Highlands Community Center.

• Studio Alive - Live Model, 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M., Calderone Gallery, 3608 Hwy. 246, Dillard, GA, (706) 746-5540.

• Duplicate Bridge, 1:45 P.M., Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library. (828) 743-0215.

• Weekly Tastings, 3:00 P.M. to 4:30 P.M., Old Edwards Rooftop Terrace.

• Movies at Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

• Movie Night, 6:00 P.M., classic and recently-released movies and documentaries. Hudson Library, (828) 526-3031.

• Karaoke, The Lost Hiker (828) 526-8232.

EVERY WEDNESDAY • Highlands Mountaintop Rotary, 7:30 A.M., dining room at Highlands-Cashiers Hospital.

• Rotary Club of Cashiers Valley, 8:00 A.M., Cashiers United Methodist Church, (828) 743-2243.

• Community Studio Art Session – Art Your Way, 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M., Hudson Library, (828) 526-3031.

• Preschool Story Time, 11:00 A.M. to Noon, Albert Carlton Library (828) 743-0215.

• Cashiers Quilters Guild, 12:30 P.M., Cashiers Methodist Church.

• Duplicate Bridge Games, 12:45 P.M., Highlands Civic Center.

• Mah Jong Games open to the public, 1:00 P.M., Albert Carlton Cashiers-Community Library, (828) 743-0215.

• Bluegrass, 8:30 P.M., Ugly Dog Pub, (828) 526-8364.

EVERY THURSDAY • Free Movie, 3:00 P.M., Albert Carlton Community Library, (828) 743-0215.

• NAMI Appalachian South support group meeting 6:45 to 8:15 P.M. at 14 West. Palmer St., Franklin, (828) 526-9510.

EVERY FRIDAY • Weekly Grief Support Group in The Highlands, 10:30 A.M. to Noon, Jane Woodruff Clinic - Suite 201 (on the HighlandsCashiers Hospital campus), Free, (828) 692-6178.

• Duplicate Bridge Games, 12:45 P.M., Highlands Civic Center.

• Live Music, 6:00 P.M. - close, Hummingbird Lounge, Old Edwards Inn, (828) 787-2625.

• Live Music, 7:00 P.M., On The Verandah, (828) 526-2338.

EVERY SATURDAY • Cashiers Tailgate Market, 9:00 A.M. to 12 Noon, United Community Bank, (828) 226-9988.

• Live Music, 6:00 P.M. - close, Hummingbird Lounge, Old Edwards Inn, (828) 787-2625.

• Live Music, 7:00 P.M., On The Verandah, (828) 526-2338.

EVERY SUNDAY • Movies at Highlands Playhouse, (828) 526-2695.

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ACCOMMODATIONS 4-1/2 Street Inn...........................

Colonial Pines Inn........................

Inn at Half Mile Farm...................

Whiteside Cove Cottages.............

Mountain Brook Suites................

ARTS Mill Creek Gallery & Framing.........

Museum of American Cut Glass......

Smitten.........................................

The Bascom................................

REAL ESTATE Country Club Properties..............

John Cleaveland Realty.................

Landmark Realty Group...............

Meadows Mtn. Realty..................

White Oak Realty Group..............

Pat Allen Realty Group ................

RESTAURANT / BAR Altitudes Restaurant.....................

The Log Cabin.............................

The Lost Hiker Bar.....................

Nectar Juice Bar...........................

Pescados

................................

Rosewood Market...........................

Wild Thyme Gourmet ...................

Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro.....

SHOPPING Alyxandra’s....................................

Bags on Main..................................

Bear Mountain Outfitters.....................

Cabin Casuals.................................

Cabin Couture................................

Dry Sink..........................................

High Cotton....................................

Mirror Lake Antiques....................

Dutchman’s Designs......................

Highlands Fine Art........................

Peak Experience............................

Hen House......................................

Highland Hiker...............................

Scudders.........................................

Martha Anne’s................................

Spice & Tea Exchange........................

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The Summer House.......................

The Southern Way.........................

Creative Concepts Salon......................

The Toy Store.................................

Whole Life Market.........................

Aery Chiropractic & Acupuncture.

SERVICES

Highlands Visitors Center....................

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AccommodAtions High Hampton inn & country club innisfree Bed & Breakfast By-the-Lake Laurelwood inn Arts Blue Valley Gallery cashiers Hillside Artists mountain mist Gallery reAL estAte Betsy Paul Properties Landmark realty Group silver creek real estate Group restAurAnts Boar’s Head deli crossroads Grill/Village scoop Hunts Brothers Pizza sapphire Brewery & Pub snack Bar 8 the Zookeeper Bistro retAiL A Jones company Bee Bags and such Bella cotn Bird Barn and Gift emporium Blue ridge Bedding/ carolina rustic Furniture Bounds cave Brooking’s cashiers Village Anglers Bumpkins cashiers customs cashiers emporium cashiers Farmer’s market cJ Brownhouse

Lotsa consignment shop

consignment market

mantiques

dovetail Antiques

michael Weaver

Fiddlehead designs

midnight Farms

GG’s consignments *etc

nature’s Vitamins

Gracewear collection

nearly new/ellen’s

Highland Hiker

nora & co

interior enhancements

rusticks

into the Woods Home interiors

sawyer Family Farmstead

Karma

s’more Kids Klothes

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summer Place Antiques

the Bear’s den the Look Jewelry and Gifts Victoria’s closet

cashiers Printing cashiers Valley Preschool

Vc for men Vivianne metzger Antiques Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming Zoller Hardware

Fancy Paws dog Grooming Keystone Kitchen & Bath Peter J Pioli interiors shear sensations

the designer’s market serVices cashiers chamber

cashiers exxon

signal ridge marina Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming

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Park and Walk

Discover the Shops at

45 Slabtown Road • Cashiers, NC

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THE ARTS

Coming Full Circle

by Donna Rhodes

J

For artist Jenny Mixon, creating is a matter of balancing her years of experience with the unexpected delights of the present.

enny Mixon doesn’t merely dip her toe into the creative spring, she takes the plunge and delights in wherever the current takes her.

That approach to life proved highly successful in her decorative arts and faux finishing career in Atlanta. Her art has been highlighted in Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles Magazine, Old House Interiors, and HGTV. But over the years, that grueling schedule left her with a longing for a simpler lifestyle, so she returned to her favorite plunge, the Highlands Plateau.

As a child, she spent many a summer diving into explorations at Sapphire’s Camp Merrie-Woode. Now an accomplished painter, she has come full circle, back to the natural wonder of her childhood. Here, in her lovely Highlands home, she can capture the beauty of the mountains on canvas all year round.

As an eighth generation Georgian, she delights in painting classic Southern ladies socializing at teas and parties. But lately she has drifted toward subjects that channel her into a zen zone. She simply throws a

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large canvas on her custom-built easel, loads up her brush, and lets her Muse do the rest. Bold swaths of color, intriguing forms, and inviting textures dictate the outcome.

“I can’t make things happen, they just happen,” she says.

And the things that are currently happening are luscious vines, flowers, birds, and native botanicals. Nothing would please her more than to share her expertise with residents of the area she has adopted.

Her timeless faux finishing, wall decor, and elegant mural-esque paintings bring the beauty of the outside in to adorn walls, furniture, and cabinetry.

She feels lucky to have found her place in this arts-oriented community. She looks forward to supporting all its outstanding art organizations, particularly The Bascom.

Visit jennymixonart.com to see more of her lovely expressionist painting. Contact her there or call her at (678) 943-4637. Studio visits by appointment only.

Plateau Gallery News THE ARTS

by Donna Rhodes The local art community goes into overdrive during this busiest of months.

T

he Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts offers free exhibitions, unique education, and community outreach through workshops, classes, and lectures.

Gallery hours are 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., Monday through Saturday; noon to 5:00 P.M. on Sunday. Call (828) 526-4949 or visit thebascom.org to learn about the latest events and other exciting offerings. And don’t miss The Bascom Barn Dance on July, 11, from 7:00 to 10:00 P.M. Mountain Mist Gallery of Cashiers represents some of the finest artists in the Southeast Region! They’ve expanded the gallery to accommodate new work and their new studio space for painting classes and workshops.

Mountain Mist Gallery is located on Highway 107 South next to Brookings Fly Shop up “On The Hill.” They are open from 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Monday through Saturday. For more information or to make an appointment, go to mountainmistgallery.com or call (828) 743-1801.

Mill Creek Gallery and Framing is your place for picture framing as well as regional photography by Cynthia Strain. It’s located in Highlands Village Square on Oak Street and is open Monday through Saturday, noon to 5:00 P.M. For more information, call (828) 787-2021. Plan now to attend the Village Square Art & Craft Show, August 29 through 30.

Blue Valley Gallery offers art instruction from 10:00 A.M. to noon and 1:00 to 3:00 P.M., Monday through Friday. Space is limited, so call (828) 743-2956 to reserve your place. They have art supplies as well. The gallery is open Monday through Saturday, 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., and

Sunday 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. Visit Blue Valley Gallery at 45 Slabtown, next to Slabtown Pizza in Cashiers.

Robert A. Tino is pleased to announce the Robert A. Tino Gallery’s return to Main Street in Highlands. Experience his breath-taking mountainscapes. Enjoy pottery of local artisans and artful furnishings that will complement any decor. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Visit robertatino.com or call (828) 526-9333 for more details.

Calderone Fine Art Gallery and Teaching Studio is located at 3608 Highway 246 in Sky Valley, Georgia. You’ll find original art inspired by the flora and fauna of the mountains by Pat Calderone. Her gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. Art classes are offered at all levels. There are limited openings, so contact Pat as soon as possible. Open Studio with a live model is held from 1:00 to 4:00 P.M. on Tuesdays. Cost is $10. Visit calderonegallery.com for more information, or call (706) 746-5540.

Ann Jacob Gallery is located at 394 Main Street in Highlands. It’s open Monday through Saturday, 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. (call (828) 526-5550 to confirm hours). Ann Jacob Gallery is a contemporary fine art gallery, representing regional, national, and international artists. AJG has over 50 years’ experience offering an extensive one-of-a-kind collection of original art (oils, acrylics, watercolors, drawings, pastels, and other media), along with high-quality reproductions. E-mail gallery@annjacob. com or visit facebook.com/AnnJacobGallery.

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THE ARTS

Festival Feasts and Salons at Six

The Vega Quartet

by Luke Osteen Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival offers a series of fabulous feasts in gorgeous home, elegant salons to deepen patrons’ musical appreciation, and one astonishing art tour.

T

he Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival, now in its 34th year, has garnered an international reputation for its deep lineup of musical talent and its reverence for the classics while showcasing bright new artists performing bold contemporary compositions.

With so many possibilities, it’s no surprise that the festival spills out into other venues in a host of other forms.

This season offers the return of its popular Feasts of the Festival series. These events offer a wonderful opportunity to meet fascinating people and enjoy irresistible food in magnificent homes and restaurants.

Marilyn and Ethan Staats and Laura and Tom Hansen will host

‘Dinner with Roman & Will,” at 7:00 P.M. Saturday, July 11. This vibrant offering will pair Atlanta Cuisine with vodka cocktails and Russian dessert. Guest of honor will be Russian violin sensation Roman Kim and Festival Artistic Director and concert pianist Dr. William Ransom. Cost is $125 per person.

“A Creole Feast with the Coucherons,” set for Saturday, July 25, is hosted by Kathy and Mark Whitehead and Nancy and Doug Halford. Guests will be able to share a Creole meal prepared

by Bobby Lee Carey with Festival Artists David Coucheron and his sister Julie. Cost is $125 person.

The Vega Quartet will be sharing the spotlight at hosts Martha and Al Pearson and Kathy and Mark Whitehead’s Chinese

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Hot Pot Party, Sunday, August 2.

Cost is $125 per person.

The series wraps with “Cocktails and Classics,” Thursday, August 6. The evening offers a winning trio – heavy hors d’oeuvres, fine cocktails, and classics performed by Cashiers pianist Bryan Heller. Cost is $75.

For reservations to these Feasts of the Festival, call (828) 526-9060.

July sees the return of the Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival’s Salons at Six. Patrons are invited to visit the home of Lynne and Jim Browne at 5:30 P.M. Tuesday, July 7, for a performance by jazz pianist Gary Motley and jazz vocalist Veronica Tate.

Lecturer and voice of classical music Lois Reitzes will present

“A Life in Broadcasting” at the home of Olivia and Bob Holt, 5:30 P.M. Tuesday, July 14.

At each Salon, wine will be served from 5:30 to 6:00 P.M., followed by the performances until 6:30. Tickets are $70.

For reservations to the Salons at Six, call (828) 526-9060.

The Music Lovers Collect Art Tour of Homes is an intimate look at a trio of Highlands art collections – the homes of Lynne and Jim Browne, Jack Sapolsky and Richard Bordeaux, and Frank Langford. The homeowners will give personal tours of their homes, accompanied by HCCMF musicians. Light refreshments will be served.

Cost is $50 per person.

For reservations, call (828) 526-9060.

THE ARTS

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THE ARTS

Knot Art

by Donna Rhodes For Francis Chicoine, the effortless elegance of wood gives his medium a never-ending fascination.

F

rancis Chicoine, AKA Fran the Spoonman, grew up in an old Massachussetts farmhouse warmed by a wood stove.

As chief wood-gatherer/stoker he developed a fascination for the tactile feel and weight of hardwood, the elegance of its asymmetry, the stories its grain could tell. He was so in love with wood, he sometimes hated to burn it.

That affinity for timber transitioned into carpentry/woodworking as a profession. But over the years, the buzz and drone of loud power tools got in the way of the visceral experience of hand-tooled sculpting. He had a mid-life crisis. Not the buy-a-red-convertible kind, but the kind that takes you back to your roots…literally.

And where are there serious tree roots? The forests of Central America. He and his wife Mary headed to Costa Rica with a stop in Belize that lasted 12 years. He loved the quietude. He blended with locals who shared a love for tooling wood sans electricity. There, he sculpted with bamboo and tropical hardwoods.

Armed with an arsenal of new ideas, Fran and Mary moved back to the States, settling in the North Carolina mountains. Here Fran plunged full bore, as it were, into wood-working, making spoons and utensils out

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of laurel, walnut, black cherry, and other native trees that grew right in his forested back yard.

He says, “I enjoy the fact that my spoons, spatulas, ladles are one-ofa-kind, utilitarian, and with proper care, will last a lifetime.”

Most of all, he likes exposing the wood’s inner beauty for others to appreciate.

The mountain laurel is called spoonwood by Native Americans It’s perfect, durable spoon-making material. Fran likes using laurel because it’s not used for much other than railings. When sculpting he has an artistic conversation with each creation. Once the bowl is chiseled out, it dictates the shape and character of its handle.

Fran’s work is seen in several Western North Carolina galleries. Locally, visit him in person at Smitten’s Third Thursday, July 16th, 5:30 p.m. until.

Please R.S.V.P. to Smitten at: (828) 526-9300 or e-mail Katherine Evans at kat@smittenofhighlands.com.

Smitten’s opening hours are 10:00 A.M., Monday through Saturday, and 1:00 P.M. on Sunday. It close at 6:00 P.M. Monday through Thursday.

Smitten’s new location is 468 Main Street in Highlands. Fran’s email is fchicoine513@gmail.com or call (828) 369-3174.

THE ARTS

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THE ARTS

Summer Colors Contributed by Zach Claxton The Art League of Highlands-Cashiers’ Calendar blossoms with the Summer Colors Art Show in Sapphire on July 11 and 12 and a presentation by sculptor John Tolmay on July 27. For more information, visit artleaguehighlands-cashiers.com.

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uly will be a busy and exciting month for the Art League of Highlands-Cashiers.

On July 11 and 12 the league’s annual Summer Colors Fine Art Show returns to the Sapphire Valley Community Center on Highway 64, approximately two miles east of the crossroads in Cashiers. This is the second year the show will be held in this venue, following a very successful and well-attended event in 2014. Attendees will be treated to the work of some of the region’s most talented artists. Besides paintings in oil, acrylic and watercolor, there will be pastels, charcoals, mixed media, photographs, and unique items of jewelry, glass, wood, sculpture, and textile. This indoor show offers a relaxed setting where patrons have the opportunity to meet and converse with the artists, browse the large display of art and, if so inclined, make a purchase. Admission and ample parking are free. This is an event not to be missed.

Then on Monday, July 27, the Art League’s monthly meeting at The Bascom will feature local sculptor John Tolmay. Born in Southern Rhodesia, his early years were spent in the bush, and its influence runs through much of his work. However, he also had an affinity for the American West, and his first sculpture, when he was 16, was a bust of an American Indian, for which he received Honours from the Cambridge Examination board in the UK. His father, a cattle rancher, insisted that John’s formal education be in agriculture rather than art. After graduating from college he traveled to the U.S. and worked as a cowboy in Nebraska and New Mexico. Returning to Africa by way of Europe he worked as a rancher and later as a safari guide. He moved to the U.S in 2003. Best described as a wildlife artist, he is also a conservationist. His bronzes are truly remarkable in detail and are cast in foundries in Montana. They can be found in homes in the US, Africa, Australia, and Europe. Social time is at 4:30 P.M. with the program at 5:00 P.M. Both of these events are well worth your time.

Please visit the Art league’s website, artleaguehighlands-cashiers.com.

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THE ARTS

Bel Canto is Back Contributed by Janet Grantham This year’s edition of Bel Canto, set for September 13 at the Highlands Performing Arts Center, boasts a stellar lineup of internationally-recognized talent. For more information, call (828) 526-5213 or e-mail highlandsbelcanto@gmail.com.

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el Canto has engaged a spectacular line up of four artists for our 23rd season – soprano Jennifer Black, mezzo Aubrey Babcock, tenor Jonathan Burton and, fast becoming Highlands’ favorite baritone, Mark Walters who’s returning for the third time.

This year’s Bel Canto will be held on September 13 at the Highlands Performing Arts Center at 4:00 P.M. As usual, we will have a gala sit-down dinner at Highlands’ oldest and most famous country club, Highlands Country Club, immediately following the concert.

Lyric soprano Jennifer Black is “gleaming and glorious, with wonderful nuances of light and shade and complete dynamic control,” says The Santa Fe New Mexican. She is in high demand on international opera and concert stages. She has sung at the Metropolitan Opera in “La rondine” and this past season returned to sing in the current production of Macbeth. Other roles have been as Mimi in “La boheme,” Juliette in “Romeo and Juliette,” and Donna Elvira in “Don Giovanni.” Ms. Black is an alumnus of the San Francisco Opera’s Merola Program and a graduate of the University of Texas, San Antonio and the Yale School of Music.

Audrey Babcock is an award-winning mezzo-soprano who is quickly gaining notoriety for her commanding, powerful performances as Carmen and her dark, hypnotic portrayals of Maddalena in “Rigoletto.” As Carmen, Ms. Babcock made her French debut with the Festival Lyrique-en-Mer and has performed the role with Florentine Opera, Nashville Opera, Florida Grand Opera, San Antonio Opera, Opera Delaware, Toldeo Opera, and Utah Festival Opera where The Salt Lake Tribune wrote, “from the moment she took the stage her self-assured characterization was mesmerizing.” She is the recipient of a number of awards including “Artist of the Year” for her portrayal of Jo in Mark Adamo’s Little Women (Syracuse Opera),

the George London Award, the Fritz and Lavinia Jensen Foundation award, and the Opera Index and Sullivan Foundation Encouragement Award. She was also a Metropolitan Opera Regional Finalist two years in a row.

Young American tenor Jonathan Burton has sung Cavaradossi in “Tosca” with Kentucky Opera, Calaf in “Turandot” with Sarasota Opera, and Pinkerton in “Madama Butterfly” with Opera on the James and with Shreveport Opera, and in addition, he has performed numerous supporting roles with Florida Grand Opera, Opera Omaha, and Palm Beach Opera. Mr. Burton studied at Westminster Choir College and the College Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati and was a member of Florida Grand Opera’s Young Artist Program. Mr. Burton studied at Westminster Choir College as well as the College Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati.

Being touted as one of the next great American Verdi baritones, Opera News describes Mark Walters as “a force to be reckoned with” in Lucia di Lammermoor and as “heroic” in Carmen. Walters has sung over 50 roles in the baritone repertoire and with recent performances of “Rigoletto,” Il trovatore and “La traviata,” he is a singer to watch in the demanding Verdi arena. In 2014 he made his debut with Seattle Opera as the title role in “Don Giovanni.”

Highlights of Walters’ career include his European debut as Germont in La traviata with Den Nye Opera in Bergen, Norway and his Asian debut in the title role of Don Giovanni in Osaka, Japan.

So put Sunday, September 13, on your calendar now and plan to attend the Twenty-third Annual Bel Canto Recital To contact Bel Canto and get on the mailing list, please call (828) 526-5213 or e-mail highlandsbelcanto@gmail.com. You can also mail your contact information to Bel Canto Recital, P.O. Bo x 2392, Highlands, NC 28741.

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THE ARTS

JoAnn in July

by Donna Rhodes The fruits of JoAnn Williams Walker’s lifetime of art and travel are displayed at The Brier Patch in Highlands. She’ll be painting at The Brier Patch throughout July. If you’d like to meet this wonderful artist, call (828) 526-4110.

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ituated amongst a lush stand of rhododendron on the Cashiers Road is a cottage filled with art.

The Brier Patch in Highlands has been in business since 1948 and is the exclusive North Carolina representative of impressionist artist JoAnn Williams Walker. Walker has been involved in art since the 1970s – working with Winsor & Newton of London; Binney and Smith in New Jersey; and Fredrix Canvas of Lawrenceville, Georgia. She assisted in the design of artists’ brushes for Robert Simmons of New York City and FM Brushes of Secaucus, New Jersey. Her still life compositions are haphazardly yet perfectly arranged and transform ordinary images into exuberant reflections of color and light. The vibrant tones of her work reflect her passion for life and her world travels.

The Brier Patch owner Catherine Appleton Peay, has known the artist since childhood. Catherine’s mother, Virginia Appleton (former owner of The Brier Patch), and Walker have been longtime friends and Virginia

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began displaying JoAnn’s work at The Brier Patch in the 1970s. JoAnn’s been visiting her friends in Highlands for years and while here, she paints.

She’ll be back this month and invites you to join her. The back porch of The Brier Patch is a favorite place for her easel. The lush greenery of the rolling lawn and the unmatched view of Shortoff Mountain provide both visual and spiritual inspiration. Each canvas in The Brier Patch is Walker’s, where you’ll see landscapes from around the world. Of particular note are the harborscapes she paints while studying in Italy. They’re thoughtfully arranged alongside the traditional home accessories for which The Brier Patch has become known.

JoAnn Williams Walker will be painting at The Brier Patch the month of July and you’ll want to be sure to take time out of your busy summer to enjoy the tranquility you’ll find at 4186 Cashiers Road in Highlands.

For more information about when you can meet this exceptional artist, please contact Catherine Peay at (828) 526-4110.

THE ARTS

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THE ARTS

COVER STORY

34 Seasons of Chamber Music

by Luke Osteen | Cover Painting by Janet Cummings

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Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival’s 34th season promises exciting new artists and directions, while maintaining its reputation for magnificent classical performances.

he Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival launches its 34th season with Jazz Meets Classics: 3 x 2, Sunday, July 5; and Monday, July 6.

These gala concerts and receptions will boast the internationallyrecognized talents of The Eroica Trio and The Gary Motley Trio in

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performances of the works of Beethoven, Mendelssohn and Albioni and original compositions by Motley himself.

If the juxtaposition of the stylized forms of classical chamber music and modern jazz are surprising, well, it’s really one of the hallmarks of this remarkable festival.

THE ARTS

The Ariel Quartet

Eroica Trio

Dr. William Ransom “New to us this year are the Ariel Quartet who are one of the top young Quartets in the world, -- originally from Israel; violinist Andres Cardenes, the former Concertmaster of the Pittsburgh Symphony; and I am absolutely thrilled that we will present the US debut of Russian violinist Roman Kim, perhaps the most outrageously talented violinist I have ever heard -- he is being touted as ‘the new Paganini!,” says Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival Director Artistic Director Dr. William Ransom.

That doesn’t mean that festival-goers won’t be able to enjoy the talents that have been showcased in the festival’s previous seasons.

“This summer we welcome back violinist William Preucil and his talented daughter Alexandra; the Vega Quartet, whom we have watched develop into such a wonderfully mature group; and David and Julie Coucheron, brother and sister violin/piano duo who have wowed us the last two seasons,” says Dr. William Ransom.

The Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival is hosting a free family/children’s concert at 3:00 P.M. Tuesday, July 14, at First Presbyterian Church in Highlands. Everyone is invited to attend the performance of “Babar the Elephant,” with solo piano music by Poulenc – narrated by Lois Reitzes, the legendary voice of classical

Gary Motley radio in Atlanta with pianist Elena Cholakova.

Following the 30-minute program at the First Presbyterian Church in Highlands, an ice cream social in Coleman Hall will be offered by Kilwins. This program is co-sponsored by the Highlands Community Child Development Center.

The festival returns to First Presbyterian Church in Highlands at 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, July 15, in its first collaboration with the church’s Interlude Series. World-renowned pianist Norman Krieger will perform the romantic compositions of Chopin and Brahms. The concert is free and open to the public.

The Vega String Quartet will offer a free concert at Buck’s Coffee Café in Cashiers at 7:30 P.M. Thursday, July 30. Everyone is invited.

Throughout the Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival’s 34th season, which stretches from July 5 to August 9, concerts will be held at 6:00 P.M. Fridays at the Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center in Highlands and repeated at 5:00 PM. Saturdays at the Albert CarltonCashiers Community Library in Cashiers. Sunday concerts will be staged at 5:00 P.M. at the Performing Arts Center in Highlands and repeated at 5:00 P.M. Mondays at the Cashiers Community Library.

For tickets and information, call (828) 526-9060.

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Vanya, Sonia, Masha, and Spike THE ARTS

Contributed by Virginia Talbot The Highlands-Cashiers Players will stage the brisk comedy “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” August 27 through September 3 at the Highlands Performing Arts Center. For more information, visit highlandscasiersplayers.org

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o launch their new season, this August the Highlands-Cashiers Players will present the comedy “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” the 2013 Tony winner for Best Play and recipient of the prestigious Drama Critics Circle Award.

It’s scheduled for the weeks of August 27 through 30 and September 3 through 6 at Highlands Performing Arts Center. The characters of the play, siblings Vanya, Masha, and Sonia, were named by their parents for characters in the plays of Russian playwright Anton Chekov. Vanya and Sonia are still living in the family home when sister Masha, a glamorous successful middle-aged actress, returns home accompanied

by Spike, a much younger sexy guy. When Masha announces plans to sell the house, the conflict begins, aided and abetted by the volatile housekeeper Cassandra, who claims to see the future and warns the

family against a nebulous someone or something called Hootie Pie. HCP director of the play Virginia Talbot saw the Broadway production in 2013 that starred Sigourney Weaver, David Hyde-Pierce and Kristine Neilsen and saw it again last year at Flat Rock Playhouse, the North Carolina state theater. Talbot became convinced that local audiences would love this very funny and sophisticated play that includes the unusual elements, unexpected dialogue, and situations that playwright Christopher Durang is known for.

The four-play season is listed on the Players website, highlandscasiersplayers.org and season subscriptions are available by leaving a message on the box office line, (828) 526-8084. Individual tickets for “Vanya” will go on sale the week before the opening date, August 27.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com

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Musical Marvels THE ARTS

by Wiley Sloan

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was created by John Michael Tebetak ick off the Highlands Playhouse’s 77th season with with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. Based on Jesus’ parables as two exciting Broadway classics recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, –“Anything Goes” and “Godspell.” a youthful band of disciples led by “Anything Goes” includes music John the Baptist traverse the quiet and lyrics by Cole Porter. The story includes madcap antics aboard an streets of New York City sharing the lessons. As the story unfolds, ocean liner bound from New York we see the familiar story of Judas’ to London. Follow Billy Crocker, a betrayal of Jesus, leading to his stowaway who’s in love with heiress eventual crucifixion.

Hope Harcourt, as he tries to win her Enjoy a variety of musical heart. Complicating Billy’s endeavors is that Hope’s fiancé, Lord Evelyn styles, including rock ‘n roll, pop, R&B, ragtime, rap and more. The Oakleigh, is aboard too. Billy solicits eccentrically dressed cast often the help of nightclub singer/evangelist gathers around Jesus as he tells (an interesting combination, don’t different stories and sings about his you think?) Reno Sweeney in his teachings and love. quest to win Hope. Watch closely as For tickets, call the Playhouse other guests like Moonface Martin Highlands Playhouse’s 2015 season includes the immortal music of Cole Porter and the eternal Gospel message, done up in the finest at (828) 526-2695. Anything Goes and his friend Erma join in the fun.

Broadway traditions. You’ll also enjoy recent, new-release movies runs June 25-July 11 and Godspell If you enjoy good music, clever throughout the summer. For tickets and information, runs July 16-August 1. Check out tap dancing footwork and a little visit highlandsplayhouse.org. highlandsplayhouse.org for more underhanded manipulation, then this information on plays, movies, is the play for you. Will Love conquer and special events. all? The show is a shining example of classic musical theater.

There’s something for everyone this summer at the Playhouse!

Those who grew up during the 1970s remember “Godspell,” which

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THE ARTS

A Walk in the Woods

by Donna Rhodes Matt Tommey’s incredible artistic journeys begin with a walk in the woods. To witness his creations, visit matttommey.com.

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att Tommey marries the aesthetic of the mountains to the beauty of the natural world in his nested sculptural wall and mantle pieces. His rustically elegant creations adorn the interiors of luxury homes all over the Cashiers/Highlands/Brevard region.

Tommey is a people person. Interacting with his clients keeps his ideas fresh and his creative fires stoked. In his pre-Asheville life he operated a successful Atlanta ad agency. A rarity amongst mostly right-brained artists, Tommey is the proud owner of brilliant left and right brains. They balance him on the edge of chaos and order. That tension keeps him on his creative toes, as he gathers gnarly vines and random scatterings on the forest floor and turns them into stunning assemblages of fine craft. Out of chaos, exquisite order. All this from a walk in the woods.

And that walk is often on the property surrounding a client’s home.

“I do a lot of personal service, walk property with customers, talk to them about found materials, measure proposed space, and deliver

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finished work,” says Tommey. “I love it when a client challenges my ideas, inspiring me to try something new. That keeps me fresh.”

Customers feel like they are a part of the process when Tommey incorporates a bird’s nest, scraps of copper wiring from a remodel, or a serpentine limb from a cherished laurel. Customizing art and delighting in one-on-one personal service generate a lot of repeat customers.

When Tommey isn’t creating in his Asheville River District studio, he is traveling, teaching, coaching, writing, and consulting nationally and abroad.

His roots, as it were, are in Appalachian style basketry, inspired by a book he found after graduating from college. Beautiful natural materials resonated in a symphony of inspiration. He practiced basketry techniques, made creations for friends, then began experimenting and turned traditional into contemporary.

Visit his website and prepare to be amazed – matttommey.com. It could be your first step of that walk in the woods.

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Ristorante Paoletti

DINING

by Luke Osteen | Photos by Marjorie Christiansen

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t’s easy to luxuriate in Ristorante Paoletti.

The rich décor, subdued lighting, and, let’s face it, expansive wine list make it the perfect spot to shed the cares of 21st century life.

Yeah, that wine list. Ristorante Paoletti offers nearly 1,000 labels, some dating back to the 1940s. Fortunately, the staff is well-versed in the intricacies of its twin cellars and can help you navigate. Or you can linger at its fully-stocked bar and indulge in carefully-crafted microbrews, full-bodied cocktails and cordials that invite conversation.

Those conversations are crucial to the ambience of Ristorante Paoletti. This is a restaurant that invites conversation – whether it’s intimate and hushed or a raucous celebration, the place thrums with the passion of people sharing their lives.

And the talk, all of that talk, eventually turns to the menu. Paoletti’s has been a Highlands landmark since 1984, so they’ve had a lot of time to perfect its bill-of-fare.

We turned the decisions over to our server, and his years and years in the game were evident in his confident choices.

I started with Yellowfin Tuna Tartare, which struck me as an unusual bet in a mountain resort town.

I’ve said it in this column before and it bears repeating here: Trust your server.

My appetizer was brilliantly balanced with wasabi and sesame seeds and, indisputably fresh.

My lovely companion ended up with a Melanzine Rollantine, a profoundly confident eggplant with ricotta, mozzarella, basil and parmesan in a light tomato sauce. Again, we were struck by the

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server’s recommendation, and again his conviction was true. It turns out that the humble Melanzine Rollantine is a remarkably accurate gauge of the kitchen’s commitment. This dish was made with passion and care.

These first impressions carried over into our entrees – Risotto ai Limone al Fruiti di Mare and a magnificent Porcini Crusted Rack of Australian Lamb.

The Risotto was presented with a flourish and fragrant with lemon.

Genuine risotto can be tricky and this served as a hearty base for a generous helping of grilled shrimp and scallops.

My Lamb was jacketed by a dusting of porcini, which served as a perfect complement to the rare interior. A generous dollop of madeira reduction demi-glace proved the chef’s mastery of subtle flavoring.

I could go into more glorious detail about the entrees, but I had to save room for mention of the oh-so-indulgent Tira Misu. This is the real thing, made with reverence and serving as the perfect exclamation point for all those conversations.

My sweetie and I ordered the Pistachio Gelato and the Mixed Berry Gelato, but once more our server steered us toward one of the kitchen’s glories, this Tira Misu.

Carry your meal home in a Doggie Bag, if you have to – don’t skip dessert at Ristorante Paoletti!

And, once more, say it with me – Trust Your Server!

Ristorante Paoletti is located at 440 Main Street in Highlands.

Reservations are a must, although you can almost always find room at the bar. You can even eat at the bar if you choose. Call (828) 526-4906.

Healthy Peach Pie Oatmeal Baked Peach Oatmeal is a glorious way to revel in a summer morning.

Contributed by Dr. Anastasia Halldin, Nutrition Coach healthymamainfo.com

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uying juicy, fragrant peaches only to watch them go bad in a day or two?

Putting juicy peaches in a breakfast oatmeal is one of the tastiest ways of using them.

This oat dish makes any breakfast a feast. While baked peach oatmeal resembles a peach pie in flavor, it’s rich in manganese, Vitamin B1 and fiber. Adding a bit of milk to a bowl of peachy oats completes the flavorful experience.

Yield: 1 large casserole dish (5-6 Servings) Prep: 10 mins COOK: 20-30 mins READY IN: 35 mins Ingredients 2 cups Rolled Oats 1 cup Almond Milk 5 medium Peaches sliced into small pieces 4 tablespoons Coconut Oil melted 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

2 tablespoons Chia Seed 1/2 cup Pure Maple Syrup Instructions Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Place the oats in a medium pot, cover with 4.5 cups of water and bring to a boil. Lower the flame and simmer for 10 minutes or until most of the water is absorbed and the oats look cooked.

While the oats are cooking, combine all other ingredients in a large bowl.

Add the oats to that bowl and mix to combine.

Transfer the mixture to a lightly oiled casserole dish and bake for 2030 minutes until the top is golden and oatmeal is set.

Let cool for five minutes and serve warm.

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Going Once, Going Twice DINING

Contributed by Sophia Iler

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The Scaly Mountain Women’s Club will stage its deeply treasured Live Auction July 18 at the Sky Valley/Scaly Mountain Fire Department.

And don’t forget those transcendent Pancake Breakfasts.

ennis has its Grand Slam; golf has its Grand Slam.

The Scaly Mountain Women’s Club has its Grand Slam, and we are playing one of our majors this month - our Annual Live Auction.

This major brings in a large portion of our funds that go towards scholarships for local students, giving them an opportunity to fulfill their educational dreams. Our scholars have chosen careers in fields such as journalism, criminal justice, and politics. Their commitment and hard work have made their families and community proud.

The SMWC’s Annual Auction will be held on July 18 at the Sky Valley/ Scaly Mountain Fire Department at 169 Hale Ridge Road in Scaly Mountain. Doors open at 6:00 P.M. and admission is free. Guests can view items in the silent auction until 7:00 P.M., at which time the Golden Memories Auction Company, a family-owned business from Mountain City, Georgia, will call the live auction. Patrons can bid on items such as a gourmet dinner for eight, golf packages from several prestigious

local country clubs, certificates from exclusive shops, spas and fine dining restaurants, original artwork, amazing gift baskets, antiques, and much more.

Another Grand Slam is our Pancake Breakfast, which is in full operation. The next breakfast is scheduled for Saturday, July 25, and they will continue every fourth Saturday of the month until October.

Breakfast is served from 7:30 until 10:30 A.M. Enjoy homemade buttermilk pancakes with locally-grown blueberries, fresh sausage, orange juice, and coffee at our beautifully renovated historical school house at the corner of Highway 106 and Buck Knob, nestled in the surrounding mountains.

The women of Scaly Mountain greatly appreciate the ongoing support from our amazing community, near and far. For more information on the club, to become a member, or to make a donation, please visit scalymountainwomensclub.org.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com

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Happy Canyon

DINING

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n the days of prohibition, some of the people of southern California drove to a secluded canyon to purchase an alcoholic beverage. They called this place Happy Canyon.

Today, Happy Canyon, one of the newer appellations on the very east end of the Santa Ynez Valley, is making consumers happy for a different reason.

Beautiful wines from Happy Canyon are fast becoming the norm. Sauvignon Blanc was the first grape to show the potential of this new wine region. Soon to follow were Cabernet, Merlot, and Sangiovese.

The wines from this new appellation have fast gained a reputation for quality and value. So much so that it may become the Capital of Sauvignon Blanc in California. The potential for Bordeaux varietals has not been fully realized. Next time you are out to dinner or at your favorite wine shop, ask for a Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet or Merlot from Happy Canyon. You will not be disappointed.

Drink Well, Curt

Curt Christiansen, Wine Navigator Madison’s Restaurant, empiricon@hotmail.com

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com

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DINING

‘Nilla Nanner Puddin’

by Jenny King | Photo by Marjorie Christiansen

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Wanda Cooper shares her famous, and much requested, recipe for Banana Pudding.

othing says comfort food like homemade banana pudding.

Wanda Cooper, Vice President of WHLC FM 104.5 says, “Banana pudding is one of my fond childhood memories while growing up in Meridian, Mississippi. I can’t remember many times when my Mother didn’t have one in the refrigerator. It was even better the second or third day, if it lasted that long. She always made everything seem so simple. To this day, I love custards and especially those with a lot of vanilla flavor.”

Wanda signed up to take banana pudding to the Mountain Garden Club cookout

her first year in the club. Since then, she’s prepared it annually for them, as well as their annual Christmas party. Her membership in the Garden Club has been threatened should she choose not to make this mostrequested dessert.

Wanda Cooper’s Homemade Banana Pudding 4 large Eggs ¾ cup Sugar (divided) 3 tablespoons All Purpose Flour ½ teaspoon plus a pinch of Salt 2 cups Whole Milk 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract 30 to 40 Vanilla Wafers (original ‘Nilla’) 3 to 4 Medium Ripe Bananas (just starting to freckle) Separate yolks from the

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whites of three of the eggs.

Add the remaining whole egg to the yolks. In a double boiler or heavy saucepan in a large pan of water, whisk ½ cup sugar, flour, and ½ teaspoon salt. Stir in the whole egg and three yolks. Stir in the milk. Cook uncovered stirring often until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla. (It is okay to be heavy handed.)

If the custard is lumpy use an immersion blender to smooth the consistency. Spread a thin layer of the pudding in a 1½ quart oven-proof dish. Arrange a layer of vanilla wafers on top of the pudding. Thinly slice the bananas crosswise, and arrange

over the wafers. Repeat, ending with custard. For meringue, beat the reserved room temperature egg whites with a pinch of salt until they are stiff.

Gradually beat in remaining ¼ cup sugar and continue beating until the whites will not slide out of bowl when tilted. Spread the meringue over the custard while making some decorative peaks with the spatula. Bake in a 425 degree preheated oven until lightly browned for about 5 minutes. Watch closely.

Since Wanda makes this for a crowd, she suggests not doubling or tripling the recipe, it’s never worked. Just make separate batches of custard.

It’ll be worth the extra time.

Evenings at Lakeside DINING

by Mary Jane McCall

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non-profit. oing to dinner at Lakeside Restaurant is always a welcome This July is a great time to support your favorite cause and join them treat and a bit like sitting for an evening at Lakeside: July down with an old friend and asking 1 -- Highlands Playhouse; July 8 “what’s new?”

-- International Friendship Pantry; Indeed, something is always new at Lakeside as they prepare delicious July 15 -- Highlands Chamber Music Festival; July 22 -- Highlands Land nightly specials featuring what’s Trust. Please be certain to let them fresh and in season. This season they know when you’re making your welcome you with traditional favorites reservations that you’re there to but are also featuring items such as support your non-profit. fresh gulf oysters, Atlantic salmon, and lamb chops.

Lakeside Owner Laure Huerta believes that it’s “important that we They innovatively bring the fresh help support the community in which taste of summer to their drink menu.

The generosity of Lakeside Restaurant extends throughout we live and work. We like to focus Ask for a table in the garden and the community during the busy summer season. our efforts on health and human sip a freshly made Watermelon and For more information or to make reservations please call services and in doing so we have Honeysuckle Martini while overlooking Lakeside at (828) 526-9419. seen firsthand how the monies we’ve picturesque Harris Lake. Savor the moment as you peruse the menu and make just the right dinner choice. donated have helped these organizations. The gratitude from others The perfect dinner in the perfect location seems like all you could is always appreciated but it’s more about the feeling of doing right by ask for, but at Lakeside there’s more to the story. Wednesday evenings others. It all comes full circle. We are truly blessed to be part of such a are special at Lakeside as they are set aside for area non-profits to join wonderful community.”

For more information or to make reservations please call Lakeside at Lakeside in raising money and awareness for their causes. Lakeside will donate 15 percent of the non-profit’s guest checks that evening to the (828) 526-9419. They are located at 531 Smallwood Avenue in Highlands.

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Verandah Welcomes Fifer DINING

by Jenny King

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Chef Jerri Fifer brings her legendary culinary talents to the dynamic kitchen of On the Verandah.

For more information or reservations, call (828) 526-2338.

s Mae West once said, “Too much of a good thing can be wonderful.”

That is most assuredly the case at On the Verandah where Chef Jerri Fifer has joined with award-winning Chef Andrew Figel who says enthusiastically, “She’s here to add some new culinary treats to our menu.”

Fifer certainly has the energy and experience to do just that. Jerri opened the Frog & Owl Cafe on Buck Creek Road in 1971, introducing this area to elegant French cuisine. Her talent gained national recognition as her recipes were printed in Gourmet, Bon Appétit, Chef Andrew Figel Tasteful Tastings, Southern Living, and The New York Times.

In 1992, Jerri became one of the top 25 women chefs in the U.S. with a Five Star Sensation designation. She closed the Frog & Owl Café to care for her autistic son, Nash, and become more involved with the active autistic community in Franklin; relocating her talents to Franklin.

Nash was a familiar face as he often joined her at work. During that time she also began teaching at the John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown.

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Chef Fifer is known for her simple, elegant cuisine, utilizing herbs and spices and the finest of local harvests.

Figel and Fifer make a culinary dream team with their combined years of providing innovative and inspiring meals and their passions for perfection. It seems unlikely you’ll find a better mix anywhere. Knife & Fork Magazine is quoted as saying of their famous Sunday brunch, “The gorgeously located On the Verandah looks at tranquil Lake Sequoyah. The scene is idyllic, the restaurant intensely personal and sophisticated. From the first lovely fresh rolls to the light and Chef Jerri Fifer cream of asparagus soup all the way to homemade fruit tarts, everything is better than most any brunch in Atlanta. The wine list (Award of Excellence

by The Wine Spectator) is exceptional. Live piano music adds an element of refinement through the meal.”

On the Verandah is open for dinner every night at 5:30 P.M., with their bar opening at 4:00. Sunday brunch is 11:00 A.M. until 2:00 P.M. For reservations, call (828) 526-2338 or visit opentable.com.

DINING

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DINING

Log Cabin is Back!

by Jenny King | Photo by Marjorie Christiansen

S

ay “Joe Webb Cabin” and people immediately think of Highlands.

Between 1922 and 1935, Webb built some 30 structures in this area using only native resources and hand tools. Historians travel long distances to study the chestnut and pine beams, stone fireplaces and wide plank floors of his work. About 30 years ago, one of these historic homes was transformed into The Log Cabin restaurant. It is located behind the Highlands Lodge at 130 Log Cabin Lane, just a couple hundred yards from the intersection of Main Street and the Dillard Road. Long one of Highlands’s most popular dining destinations, it sadly closed last September to the disappointment of many in the area.

Well, now The Log Cabin is back. In the hands of restaurateur Jason Cancilla and Chef Nicolo D’Angelo, the new Log Cabin is specializing in comfortable Italian, steaks and seafood. Along with the three dining rooms, the restaurant features three fireplaces and two outdoor seating areas. Situated under towering oaks and maples, the Log Cabin makes you feel like you have truly arrived in Highlands.

Cancilla has run restaurants all over the country including cities such as Washington DC, Houston, Indianapolis, Scottsdale and Palm Beach.

He tells us though, that this is the first restaurant of his own and his excitement about that fact is obvious. Having taken care of presidents, senators and countless celebrities, he says that Highlands and the Log Cabin bring a whole new set of challenges and opportunities.

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Regarding the future of the Log Cabin, Cancilla says, “We hope to be a place that locals can be proud to bring friends and family from out of town.” He adds, “For the visitors from out of town, most of them come to Highlands to shake off the heat and traffic of their home in bigger cities. This is a great place to do it.”

In addition to spending the last five years in the Highlands area, Chef Nicolo D’Angelo’s experience extends coast to coast, from Portland, Oregon, where he attended Western Culinary Institute to Boston restaurants in his native New England. He is also no stranger to regional seafood having spent several years on the Carolina Coast. “I grew up in an Italian family, so I tend to gravitate toward Italian food, but much of my training is based on food from all over the world” says Chef Nic. “We are kind of trying to do a take on the neighborhood restaurants that I grew up with. I really have a respect for the small, honest restaurants that are constantly doing new things with fresh ingredients, but at a fair price.”

The team at the new Log Cabin will face many challenges, but Highlands should be excited about the resurrection of this unique and historic dining destination.

At the Log Cabin, menus are changed and printed daily to feature fresh local produce and seasonal ingredients. Check out the latest at LogCabinHighlands.com and call for reservations at (828) 526-5777.

DINING

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DINING

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Mountain Dining

See Ad On Page

Take Out

Outdoor Dining

Checks Accepted

Credit Cards

Dress Code

Reservations Recommended

Vegetarian Selections

Children’s Menu

Full Bar

Wine

Dinner

Lunch

Sunday Brunch

Your Guide to the Restaurants of Highlands & Cashiers

Breakfast

DINING

HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS Bake My Day Bakery & Cafe • 137 Main Street • Wright Square • 828-487-4633 ¢ ¢ ¢ C • • 109 Bella’s Junction Cafe • 20 Old Mud Creek Road, Scaly, NC • 828-526-0803 $ $ $ • C • L • • 102 The Bistro at Wolfgang’s • 460 Main Street • 828-526-3807 $-$$ • • • • NC • L • • 5 The Dog House • 294 South 4th St. • 828-526-8364 ¢ ¢ ¢ • • • C • • • 102 Dusty’s • 493 Dillard Road • 828-526-2762 ¢ ¢ • • C • • • • 110 Fressers Courtyard Cafe • 470 Oak Street, Village Square • 828-526-4188 ¢ -$$ $-$$ • • • C • • • • 101 * The Kitchen CarryAway & Catering • 350 S. Fifth St. • 828-526-2110 $-$$ $-$$ • • • 101 Lakeside Restaurant • Smallwod Avenue • 828-526--9419 $-$$ $$ $$$ • • • • NC • • • 110 The Log Cabin • 130 Log Cabin Lane • 828-526--5777 $-$$ $-$$ $$ • • • • • C • L • • 103 Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden • 445 Main St. • 828-787-2525 $ $$ $$ • • • • NC • • 110 Meritage Bistro • 490 Carolina Way • 828-526-1019 $-$$ $-$$ $$$ • • • C • • 106 Mountain Fresh Grocery • Corner of Fifth and Main • 828-526-2400 ¢ ¢ -$ ¢ -$ • • C • • • • 107 On the Verandah • Hwy. 64 (Franklin Road) • 828-526-2338 $-$$ $-$$ • • • • • NC • • • • 107 Paoletti’s • 440 Main Street • 828-526-4906 $-$$ • • • • NC • L • 103 * Rosewood Market • Main Street • 828-526-0383 $-$$ $-$$ • • • • • 138 The Ugly Dog Pub • 294 South 4th St. • 828-526-8364 ¢ ¢ ¢ • • • C • • • 102 Wolfgang’s Restaurant • 460 Main Street • 828-526-3807 $-$$ • • • • NC • L • • 5 CASHIERS AREA RESTAURANTS *On the Side at Cashiers Farmers Market • Crossroads • 828-743-4334 • 105 The Orchard • Highway 107 South • 828-743-7614 $$$ • • • • Dinner C • • • 105 Zookeeper • Mountain Laurel Shoppes • 828-743-7711 ¢ ¢ ¢ • C • • 74 ¢ $

Minimal, most entrees under $10 Moderate, most entrees $10-$15

Pricing Guide

Highlands Area Restaurants Altitude’s at Skyline Lodge - 828-526-2121 Annie’s Cafe - 828-526-1663 Asia House - 828-787-1680 Bake My Day Bakery & Cafe - 828-487-4633 Bella’s Junction Cafe - 828-526-0803 Bistro on Main/ Main Street Inn - 828-526-2590 The Bistro at Wolfgang’s - 828-526-3807 The Brick Oven - 828-526-4121 Bryson’s Deli - 828-526-3775 Buck’s Coffee Cafe - 828-526-0020 Cafe 460 - 828-526-8926 Creekside Casual Dining - 828-526-9822 Cyprus International Cuisine - 828-526-4429 The Dog House - 828- 526-8364 Dusty’s - 828-526-2762 El Azteca - 828-526-2244

$$ Deluxe, most entrees $15-$20 $$$ Grand, most entrees over $20

El Manzanillo - 828-526-0608 Fressers Courtyard Cafe - 828-526-4188 Golden China - 828-526-5525 Highlands Smokehouse - 828-526-5000 Kelsey Place Restaurant - 828-526-9380 The Kitchen CarryAway & Catering - 828-526-2110 Lakeside Restaurant - 828-526-9419 The Log Cabin - 828-828-526--5777 Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden - 828-787-2525 Meritage Bistro - 828-526-1019 Mountain Fresh - 828-526-2400 On the Verandah - 828-526-2338 Pescado’s - 828-526-9313 Pizza Place - 828-526-5660 Paoletti’s - 828- 526-4906 Rosewood Market - 828-526-0383 Sports Page - 828-526-3555 Subway - 828-526-1706 SweeTreats Deli - 828- 526-9632 Tokyo - Authentic

L

Checks Local Only * Takeout Only

C Casual

Asian Cuisine - 828-526-8800 The Ugly Dog Pub - 828- 526-8364 Wild Thyme Gourmet - 828-526-4035 Wine Garden at Old Edwards Inn - 828-787-2525 Wolfgang’s Restaurant - 828-526-3807 Cashiers Area Restaurants Brown Trout Mountain Grille - 828-877-3474 Buck’s Coffee Cafe - 828-743-9997 Cafe 107 - 828-293-1221 Canyon Kitchen - 828-743-7967 Carolina Smokehouse - 828-743-3200 Chester’s Chicken at Cashiers Exxon - 828-743-5041 Chile Loco - 828-743-1160 Cornucopia Restaurant - 828-743-3750 Four Season Grille - 828-743-4284 Happ’s Place - 828-743-2266

Dress Code

NC Nice Casual J Jacket

High Hampton Inn - 828-743-2411 Hunt Bros. Pizza at Cashiers BP - 828-743-2337 JJ’s Eatery and Canteen - 828-743-7778 Mica’s Restaurant - 828-743-5740 On the Side at Cashiers Farmers Market - 828-743-4334 The Orchard - 828-743-7614 Randevu Restaurant - 828-743-0190 Rosie’s Café - 828-743-0160 Slab Town Pizza (STP) - 828-743-0020 Subway - 828-743-1300 The Gamekeeper’s Tavern - 828-743-4263 Wendy’s - 828-743-7777 Yoshi Japanese Steakhouse - 828-743-8747 Zookeeper - 828-743-7711

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VENTURE OUT

Link Up With Disc Golf

by Alex Foltz Disc golf offers a new twist on one of Western North Carolina’s most popular activities.

Nearby courses can test the mettle of players at every skill level.

W

ith the growing popularity of disc golf, there is no shortage of courses to challenge players no matter where they find themselves enjoying the outdoors.

Within less than an hour’s drive from Highlands there are several courses waiting to be played that are friendly to all levels of disc golfers.

For those who have yet to play, any time is a good time to start.

Unlike traditional golf, disc golf is a relatively easy game to get into, and it is a great way to get outside to experience the scenery that these luscious mountains have to offer. It requires little money to purchase a set of discs, most courses have no entry fee, and as long as you can throw a Frisbee you’re ready to play.

Three discs are standard for optimal play: a driver, mid-range disc, and a putter. These discs are very different from a traditional Frisbee, and just like a set of standard golf clubs, each disc has a different property that optimizes its performance for its specific job. It is beneficial to throw some discs before purchasing in order to get a feel for what works best. However, if that is not possible worry not, as a new set of discs can be purchased for a reasonable price. The game plays much like a round of golf with the goal being landing the disc in the hole with

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the fewest strokes possible. The differences: discs are your clubs and baskets, your hole. Once you are armed with a set of discs and a basic understanding of the rules you are now ready to get out on the course.

There are plenty of courses in Western North Carolina, including some within an hour’s drive from the plateau. The first is a course located at the Jackson Country Rec Center in Cullowhee, North Carolina. This is an 18-hole course with few hazards or elevation change, making it an excellent choice for anyone, especially those who are just starting out.

If you find yourself looking for a bit more of a challenge there is a course located in Franklin at the Macon County Early College that is excellent for players with some experience. This nine- hole course has a little bit of everything including beautiful scenery, some elevation change, and holes with many hazards as well as some less difficult holes. The last of the three, and most difficult course, is Catamount Links located on the campus of Western Carolina University. This course has some much longer holes than the other courses and is perfect for experienced disc golfers.

No matter your level of experience, disc golf is a great endeavor for those thirsting for outdoor recreation in Western North Carolina.

Fly Fishing in the Summertime VENTURE OUT

Contributed by Chris Wilkes and Andrew Watson | Highland Hiker

O

Highlands. nce summer rolls around, the influx of visitors to our 1) Get in the water very early or very late. During the summer mountain communities months, water temperatures will are busy looking for things to do. rise and are at their highest from Fly fishing is usually right at noon to 5:00 P.M. By getting the top of that list.

Unfortunately for our visitors, out on the river early, 6:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M., you give yourself a couple of factors make the a chance to be in the middle of summertime fishing a little more fish that will be active in the cool difficult than it is in the Spring water. Dusk, from 6:00 P.M to or Fall. For instance, once June 8:00 P.M., works well also. rolls around, the state will stop stocking the delayed harvest 2) Use midges, nymphs, and streamers. We all like to see the rivers with trout as they have top-water strike of a big trout. since October. Compound that But during this time of year, with North Carolina allowing the fish will be at the bottom fishermen to catch and keep up A few clever strategies will keep fish biting throughout of the river expending very to seven fish a day over seven this lazy season. little energy and only taking the inches in the delayed harvest flies that are able to get down rivers starting the first weekend in June, and you will see a huge drop-off in the number of trout in low right in front of them.

3) Waterfalls and dams are helpful. Looking for cool water is key. our rivers by mid-June. As we get deeper into summer, the water temperatures will rise over the 65 degree mark, causing the fish to be Keep in mind that creek water is cooler due to it coming from fresh very inactive. Knowing these conditions, there are a few things you water springs underground.

Good luck out there! can do to maximize your ability to catch fish in rivers in and around

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VENTURE OUT Crocosmia Lucifer

Gooseneck Loosestrife

Lobelia

A Patriotic Garden With a little imagination, a local garden can be transformed into a vivid slice of American Pride.

W

hat’s white and blue and ‘read’ all over?

Phlox (p.paniculata) -- These grow upright, have The July Laurel Magazine, of course! clusters of small flowers (also come in pinks, and July is here! What is one of the first lavenders). Very fragrant, and the butterflies love thoughts you have about July? Most would say them. (I like the Latin term - almost sounds like July the Fourth, which makes one think about ‘panic u later’; well, this plant does spread easily). patriotism, which makes one think red, white Gooseneck Loosestrife (Lysmachia clethroids) – and blue. nice looking plant that has little white flowers on a Those colors take on so much meaning; it’s hard crooked stem that looks like a goose’s neck. Great to consider life without them. If you have a chance for cut flower arrangements; this plant will spreadto fly the flag -- Do! best to keep it bordered. Grows about three Another way to show your allegiance is to plant feet tall. a perennial red, white, and blue garden. Here are BLUE: Bell Flower (campanula carpatica) -- This some examples of things you can plant this year to one is a low grower, and also comes in white. There enjoy year after year. is a bed of green with little bell shaped flowers.

RED: Red Bee Balm (monarda) -- It grows about Good for bordering.

Contributed by two feet tall with a red bloom and butterflies Trailing Lobelia (lobelia erinus) -- This one looks Jeannie Chambers love it. You can tell this flower by the fragrant like it belongs in a fairy garden (I’m pretty sure The Accidental Gardener square stem. fairies come with all of these plants -- that’s why Beardtongue (penstemon) -- There are many they’re so magical). These are great for hanging different colors available; you’ll want to look for Ruby, Firebird, or baskets or bordering your garden -- little tiny bursts of blue, like Port Wine to give a pretty red color. These like full sun and grow 2-3 fairy dust. feet tall.

Lupine (lupinus) This tall majestic flower comes in a variety of Lucifer (croscosmia) -- This is one of my favorites, as they bloom colors, and all are striking. It comes from the legume family, and the a long time and the vivid red color is striking in almost any area. Full seeds are edible. I’ve never tried any, but I read they’re mostly found sun, grows about two feet tall. This plant is from the Iris family, and its in Europe and are sold soaked in brine, like an olive. name means saffron + odor. Supposedly, the leaves give off a saffron There are many others to try, and you can always buy annuals odor when put in hot water. Hummingbirds love this plant. each year, or if you have a really black thumb, just buy little American WHITE: Shasta Daisy (leucanthemum) -- This one is about as flags and stick them everywhere! As always, buy local plants American as apple pie -- it has hardy stems of about 2-3 feet tall with when possible, and don’t be afraid to ask the nursery owners for white petals and a small yellow disc in the center. their recommendations.

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The Long and the Short VENTURE OUT

Tom’s latest comes to us as he’s heading to Northern Ireland’s great courses -- Royal Portrush and Royal County Down.

Look for his complete report next issue.

I

Contributed by Tom Chillemi, PGA Golf Professional Tom’s Golf Tours, info@tomsgolftours.com

f you are like me as we get up a little in age we don’t have the flexibility we used to. This means getting a full turn on the backswing gets harder and our backswings shorter.

Without being able to get a full turn and loading up your right side with weight you are going to hit the ball shorter.

As you start back allow your left knee to flex behind the ball towards your right knee. It will make it easier to make a bigger shoulder turn and longer backswing which will set up a more powerful downswing equaling more distance.

Keep in mind it’s useless to put weight on your right side on your backswing if you are going to leave it there. Make sure on your downswing your left hip starts through before your hands. Keep turning until your belt buckle is facing your target and most of your weight is on your left foot with your right heel off the ground.

Notice the knee and head are behind the ball.

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VENTURE OUT

Eastern

BoxTurttle

T

he Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina) is a subspecies of one of two species of box turtles found in the United States. It is the only “land turtle� found in North

Carolina, and is our state reptile. Box turtles are slow crawlers, extremely long lived, slow to mature, and have relatively few offspring per year.

Photo by Clay Bolt | www.claybolt.com | Courtesy of Highlands Biological Station

Summer

Tanager

T

he Summer Tanager (Piranga rubra) is a medium-sized songbird, a member of the cardinal family.

The male is bright strawberry-red with a slight crest and the female mustard yellow. It migrates a far as South America each winter. Summer Tanagers inhabit the tree tops in mixed forests of hardwoods and pines where they catch bees and wasps mid-air. Its melodic song is robin-like with two and three syllable phrases repeated in a long stream. The Summer Tanager call is an agitated pituk or pik-i-tuk-i-tuk.

Photo by Ed Boos Courtesy of Highlands Plateau Audubon Society

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VENTURE OUT

Wildlife Mountain Days

by Mary Jane McCall Get to know your neighbors, your wild neighbors, at Sapphire Valley’s Wildlife Mountain Days, July 17-18.

For more information, call (828) 743-7663, or visit mountainwildlifedays.com.

E

veryone is invited to Wildlife Mountain Days, slated for July 17 and 18 at the Sapphire Valley Resort. This annual event promotes a better understanding of, and connection with, wildlife through a diverse mixture of children and adult programs, featuring live animals, exceptional speakers, bird walks, hikes, exhibits, and more.

Each year this program gets bigger and better and is something that everyone looks forward to. On Friday, July 17, from 3:00 to 4:00 P.M., don’t miss the program at Sapphire Valley Community Center for youth and adults featuring live animals from the North Georgia Zoo. From 7:00 to 8:00 P.M. that evening there’ll be a slide presentation entitled, “Thinking About Bears and God’s Other Animals,” featuring Bill Lea’s photography and commentary. Lea is a world-class nature photographer, wildlife advocate and black bear expert. Black bears are one of our most common wildlife neighbors, so this program is an informative and fun way to learn more about them. Admission is $5 for adults and children are free with an adult. Also scheduled throughout the day on Friday are a wide variety of outdoor experiences, including

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a bird walk with the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society and hikes led by experienced outdoor experts.

Saturday, July 18, features several programs with live animals. “Our Most Misunderstood Animals” features naturalist Steve O’Neil and his variety of “wild things.” “On The Wings of Eagles” is presented by naturalist Michael Skinner and his bald eagle, Hope. Nancy Brown will be there with her Wolf Dogs of Full Moon Farm. The day will conclude with “Animals From Around the World,” featuring wildlife from the North Georgia Zoo. Admission for the full day is $8 per person and children are free with an adult.

In addition, a silent auction will raise funds to provide financial assistance for wildlife outreach programming for local schools and organizations. This event is co-sponsored by the Sapphire Valley Resort and financially supported by sponsors and “friends of wildlife.” For more information and a detailed schedule, call or visit the Sapphire Valley Resort’s Community Center, (828) 743-7663, or visit mountainwildlifedays.com.

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VENTURE OUT

A Birdsong Symphony

Indigo Bunting

Contributed by William McReynolds | Photo by Ed Boos Decked out in their finery and with a song in their hearts, summer birds are welcome neighbors.

T

he birds are back!

The migratory birds, that is. They have joined the many bird species that grace the Highlands Plateau during the winter: the ever-present Carolina Chickadees, White-Breasted Nuthatches, Tufted Titmice, Juncos, and all our year-round avian neighbors that comprise the 40 species observed by members of the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society during its annual Christmas bird count.

The marauding flocks of Pine Siskins that wintered with us this year have exited our birdfeeders like dinner guests who overstayed their welcome.

The returning birds — many of which come from their winter homes in Central and South America — bring familiar spring and summer sights and sounds to the forest and meadow. Repatriated Red-Eyed Vireos allow us to eavesdrop on their interrogatory, “question and answer” song, while male Indigo Bunting serenade their less-pretentious mates with couplets worthy of a Mozart minuet.

The Eastern Phoebe and Wood-Pewee broadcast their names with near-perfect pitch and enunciation. The flutelike notes of the Wood Thrush once again grace peaceful mornings and evening woodland

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hours. These dulcet sounds blend with the familiar, year-round importuning of the Eastern Towhee to “Drink your teeeeeee.”

The avian colors of summer come in the scarlet of the so-named Tanager, yellow of the Northern Parula and orange of the occasional Baltimore Oriole. The intensely blue Bunting is iridescent in his sunlit glory. Robins’ red breasts, sans the poet’s cage, radiate a rich American chestnut-red. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds and Rose-breasted Grosbeaks validate their descriptive names. Pairs of Cedar Waxwings appear as impeccably dressed for a formal occasion. Hooded Warblers and Black-throated Blue Warblers seem costumed for a masquerade ball.

The festooned musicians have taken their places and the spring and summer symphony has begun. This joyous chorus begins early in the morning: the tickets are free, the program varies each day and there is unlimited seating. Enjoy!

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 local Audubon activities and membership, please visit highlandsaudubonsociety.org.

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Bat-ten Down Your Attic

by Donna Rhodes The scourge of nighttime insect pests, bats need a little help from their human friends and neighbors.

I

f you have a hole as small as ¼-inch wide and 1.5 inches long in your soffits, eaves, or around plumbing or electrical entries to your home, you may be advertising a bat motel.

This time of year pregnant bats are coming out of hibernation and looking for a tree cavity, dense foliage, or your attic to call home sweet home.

Bats give birth to one or two pups late May to early June. There is a moratorium on plugging up attic access points from May through July to allow babies to mature and vacate. In August you can install exclusion devices preventing entry but allowing escape.

Bats are an asset to your property. One bat can eat over 20,000 insects, including mosquitoes, annually. They are cool creatures. They don’t fly into your hair and lay eggs … urban myth.

But bats do create at least one problem: guano…bat poop. It can carry disease, which can filter down as dust into your home’s ventilation system. Bats can also carry rabies, but that is extremely rare. A mere 0.5 percent of the bat population is infected, though bats show no symptoms.

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If a bat gets loose in your house, close all the doors and windows except one exit to the outside. The bat will eventually find its way out. Remain calm. After 10-15 minutes, if the bat doesn’t fly out on its own, put on leather gloves, come up behind it (bats are not blind . . . another misconception) and place a container (shoebox) over it. Then slip a piece of cardboard underneath, carry it to the exit and release.

Dispose of the cardboard, remove gloves and wash your hands.

How do you know if you have bats? Look for guano at the house’s foundation. Listen for attic noise. Watch at dusk and dawn to see if they are exiting or entering your home.

If a bat has gotten into your home and you have had unprotected contact with it or have been sleeping while it was in your bedroom, call the health department immediately. Then follow the procedures to remove or capture the animal depending upon what health officials suggest.

To learn more about bats, particularly two endangered bat species which live in Western North Carolina, visit ncwildlife.org. Google “bat houses” to learn more about providing a safe habitat.

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The Haunting of Miss Annie HISTORY

by Donna Rhodes | Photo Courtesy Highlands Historical Society Shortoff’s pale phantom and mysterious ball of flame have fueled many a campfire tale.

M

iss Annie the unexplained. A W h i p p white ball of glowing Pierson flame was sometimes was a refined, observed at the top well-respected of the hill. It would schoolteacher roll down the slope at Shortoff near and hover over the Highlands, but she grave of the blackwas not the least haired beauty in Miss bit happy there.

Annie’s tale.

The She loved the young woman had students.

‘Twas once lived with the the ghost at the Wellses.

Like any Wells Place where good ghost story, she boarded that the unnamed died sent her scurrying. under mysterious W h i l e circumstances, and chaperoning was buried in an camping trips she’d unmarked grave on tell the school the property. kids ghost stories When the ball as they sat wideof flame reached eyed around the her grave it would campfire.

These fwoof!

Dissipate. weren’t handAttempts to analyze me-down stories. it were unsuccessful.

These were real-life It could have been experiences that phosphorescent sent chills down mineral deposits, the spines of her electrical energy, or captive audiences. swamp gas (had there Miss Annie’s been a swamp). But trance-like state why did it consistently during the telling pause over that made it all the particular grave and more convincing. then disappear?

On other On moonless occasions, wellnights a willowy ghost with long, respected town black hair, dressed folk would report sightings of the ghost in a flowing white sitting on the front dress glided porch, brushing her silently through Miss Annie Whipp Pierson long black hair. the billowing Miss Annie’s tale is one of a few Highlands haunting spine-tinglers, curtains at Miss Annie’s door. She would stop at the washstand, lift the pitcher, and languidly wash her hands. Miss Annie peered which can be found in Ran Shaffner’s book “Heart of the Blue Ridge.” out from under the covers at the apparition, her bed rattling from See Sarah Summer’s “Ghosts of Highlands”, Galax News, August 27, 1970, page 6-A, which can be read online at highlandshistory.com. uncontrollable shaking.

Visit Highlands Historical Society during weekends through Hands washed, the ghost would float lazily out the window and October, or go online to highlandshistory.com or email down the hill until she vanished in the night.

Miss Annie wasn’t the only one to brush against the sleeve of highlandshistory@nctv.com.

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John Baird Allison HISTORY

Contributed by Jane Gibson Nardy, Historian, Cashiers Historical Society

J

ohn Baird Allison was he walked home. born 17 June, 1842, in The late Madge Cashiers Valley, the Dillard Merrell third child of E. Logan considered John B. her favorite uncle.

Allison and Elizabeth Zachary Allison.

They were both at the John had at least six first Zachary Family siblings. He found the love Reunion in 1909. She of his life, Rachel Rebecca was age two and he Lister, in Henderson was 66. Neither one County, North Carolina, of them ever missed where the two were a Zachary Reunion in married. Rachel’s father the remaining years of was a doctor in Henderson their lives. Back then, everyone who lived County. John and Rachel away from Cashiers had five children -- Mary Lister “Mamie;” Claude, would come and stay Samuel, Leona, and Ernest. the whole weekend The youngest child, Ernest, or maybe a week later nicknamed “Bullet” with kinfolks. Most was only three years old people in town were when his mother, Rachel, kin, either by blood died. John B. remained or marriage. John B. a widower for the rest always stayed with of his life, living in the Susan and Tom Dillard.

Brevard area.

Their house was John grew up in where the Chattooga Cashiers Valley like most Club is now. One year there were so many mountain boys, with visiting at the Dillards some schooling and lots on Reunion Weekend of hunting and fishing. He that they had to put was as much at home in pallets on the floor to the woods as he was in a have enough sleeping house. When he was 20 space. On a Saturday years old, North Carolina before the Reunion, left the Union and became John B. went fishing part of the Confederate at one of the local States of America. On Cashiers streams and May 30, 1861, John went down to Webster, joined caught a bunch of big trout. Back at the the Confederate Army Dillard’s house, he and became a Private in Company B, 25th cleaned the fish and kept them inside in a Regiment of the North box, ready for cooking Carolina Infantry.

He signed up for 12 months in the morning. In the John Baird Allison’s roots in Cashiers kept him coming home throughout his life. middle of the night, but ended up serving four with all the guests times that long. He fought in Virginia and spent the sound asleep on the month of July 1862 in the Episcopal Church Hospital in Williamsburg, floor, the cats got into the box full of fish and on their way to the cat Virginia. He later said it was so hot there and the drinking water was door they dragged the fish right across the sleeping bodies. Everyone bad. He learned there was nowhere you could get cold, sweet water woke up, jumped up and all the kids were screaming.

It would be nice if all you readers would drop by the Lower Zachary like you found in Cashiers Valley.

In April of 1865, John B. was there at Appomattox when Robert Cemetery on North Carolina Confederate Memorial Day and on Zachary E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia surrendered to the Armies of the Reunion Day and say hello to John B. Allison. Maybe put a fish on his United States. Since the railroad tracks all over the South were torn up, grave stone? He’s buried on Row 7.

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WEDDING

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WEDDING

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WEDDING

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linca, better known as Ily, lived in Toronto and Jeff in Greenville, South Carolina.

Little did they know that they would meet through online video games and marry.

“In the summer of 2008 we were playing a team-based online video game, and we happened to be on the same team along with some of our friends,” says Ily. “It’s very hard to find a skilled player who is also a nice person, so we decided we would exchange info and keep in touch for future games. Gaming together quickly evolved into a tight friendship, which later turned into dating. It was challenging for the first few years because of the distance between us, but we pushed through the hard parts and now we are reaping the rewards!”

Jeff’s Mom, Linda Mitchell, approached I Do Events about a year ago to help her plan the wedding of Ily’s dream.

Being the Mother of the Groom, she was cautious about not overstepping her boundaries and was determined that she would do everything possible to capture Ily’s vision for the wedding.

“Beginning with a wedding planner who had an awesome networking group was the best decision, as I didn’t know how to pull it all together,” says Linda. “Everything from etiquette to the smallest of details to contacting and coordinating vendors was a necessity. Dreaming in my mind how it would look in the space and picturing the day became a favorite thought and seeing it come to fruition exactly as I pictured made all the detailed planning worth it. I am a pretty structured planner so it was fun to work on the wedding and search for just the right things to use. I got the opportunity to be a mother of the bride because Ily’s Mom could not be there; I even got to take her shopping for her Vera Wang wedding gown.”

Ily and Jeff decided on The Village Green in Cashiers for their special

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continued from page 134 day because they were looking for a space that would be basically the same whether rain or shine. The Village Green offered a covered space that would not be changed very much if it rained; other places they visited offered a “rain” plan that moved the venue inside instead of outside. With the roof at Village Green, they still had their outside space and the “rain” plan looked just as great.

Linda said, “I liked the way the wedding flowed to the many areas of the space. It helped move people around and the elevated stage set off the couple and made it very special.”

The ceremony was under the center pavilion and Rooms In Bloom had designed a floating cloud of flowers which hung over the bridal couple as they said their vows and later became the overhead display for the wedding cake.

“My favorite part of the day from an emotional point of view was

the ceremony, but aesthetically it was definitely the reception,” says Ily. “I spent a lot of time on Pinterest trying to figure out how I wanted the reception to look and had a very clear image in my head. I am ecstatic about how beautiful everything turned out. I’m very big on looks, so the fact that everything looked good throughout was really important to me.

I adored the flower arrangements that Rooms In Bloom designed, and I’m very happy that Paul Brummer from Rooms in Bloom included all the flowers that I had asked for during our planning stages. I was also very happy with how the table decor looked, from chairs, to table cloths to the china and silverware. Everything looked perfect!”

Jason Watson, General Manager for Professional Party Rentals, spent numerous hours working with I Do Events on floor plans, lighting, and helping Ily and Linda choose the dishes, glassware and all the rentals for the event and it certainly paid off. Bella’s Catering created a scrumptious

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continued from page 137 dinner menu and guests were wowed by the pineapple, mango salsa and strawberry lemonade signature drink.

Ily’s advice to brides is simple -- “Make sure you hire a very good photographer and videographer. Everything goes by so fast, that you probably won’t notice much of anything. The best way to know you did a good job (aside from guests’ comments) is to see your pictures/video.

When I first saw the sneak peek pictures of our wedding reception, I

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realized that I had no idea everything turned out so great! When we sat down at the head table to eat, I didn’t really have enough time to just take everything in, so I’m glad we had Angela Cox Photography and Plunge Flicks to immortalize our day for us to revisit. Aside from that, I was very pleased to see how many people were genuinely happy for us on our big day. All those smiles, hugs, and congratulations really made everything that much better!”

WEDDING

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Nestled in Nature

by Wiley Sloan Our July Home of Distinction weds the eternal charm of mountain living with the most modern of conveniences.

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rom the wide expanse of the front porch, soak in the beauty of the gently rolling lawn as your eyes scan across the pond to the stand of decades-old trees in the distance.

Native mountain laurel dot the hillside as birds praise the beauty of the season. Located on eight acres surrounded by a conservation easement and gentlemen’s farms, you’ll enjoy the serenity of nature while being just minutes from all of the activities offered in Cashiers and Sapphire.

Homeowners Stephen and Marcia Shawler collaborated with Keven Hawkins and Tim Greene to bring out this home’s inner beauty. This recently renovated home includes a floor plan that supports the casually sophisticated lifestyle that so many seek today. The wide central Entrance Hall doubles as a gathering spot while you plan your day. Large light-filled rooms beckon you to kick back and relax.

Expansive French doors flanked by oversized side panels merge nature with the home’s interior in a quiet elegance.

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Morning may find family and guests waking slowly in the home’s Custom Kitchen. Dine around the large granite island or in the Dining Alcove as you watch wildlife scamper across the front lawn. The wide expanse of the screened-in Back Porch offers an alternative dining spot where you sip that second cup of coffee. The Kitchen’s fireplace includes gas logs ready at a finger’s touch when temperatures chill your bones.

The home’s large Living Room is perfect for intimate gatherings or for entertaining the whole family when holiday times roll around.

Enjoy the warm glow of a fire as flames shimmer across the hardwood floors. Challenge friends to a game of bridge or finish a puzzle around the game table.

The elegantly appointed Bedrooms provide a place for quiet repose at the end of a fun-filled day. Careful attention to detail has optimized this home’s available space. With built-ins to house family treasures and closets tucked into every available space, you’ll always feel in

HOMES & LIFESTYLES

control of your surroundings. This three Bedroom, two and one-half Bath home offers a perfect retreat among the beauty of the mountains.

In inclement weather, slip unscathed from the garage into the Utility/Office area to drop your gear before stopping in the Kitchen for a quick snack. Catch up on e-mails or post a reminder on the calendar at your desk here, throw in a load of laundry or pack a picnic. A short jog down the drive brings you to the front door of the Carriage House Guest Quarters. Don’t be surprised if it is hard to get folks to head

home in this innovatively planned retreat. An old log cabin catches your eye as you stroll across the upstairs deck.

Twenty-First Century amenities (underground power, central heat and air) and minimal maintenance landscape join together to offer a carefree style to this family abode.

Don’t tarry, this gem won’t stay on the market long. To arrange a showing or for more information contact Beth Townsend of McKee Properties at (828) 421-6193 or visit mckeeproperties.com.

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The Piña Colada Song HOMES & LIFESTYLES

by Donna Rhodes The romance at the heart of the “Piña Colada Song” is wonky and more than a little bit creepy, but Donna isn’t immune to its cannily-crafted spell.

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have a guilty pleasure. I like the “Piña Colada Song.” I’m not sure why.

Everything about it goes against my grain. It’s a cheating song.

I’ve been on the wrong end of that stick more than once. The singer refers to his wife/girlfriend (it’s never clear which) as my old lady.

How rude. He says their relationship is the “same old dull routine.”

How irresponsible. He’s looking for an escape (the song’s real title) and goes to the classifieds to find it. How cowardly.

This guy is scummier than toe-fungus and yet, I’m groovin’ along with the bass rhythm like it was hard-wired into my DNA: do . . . dooo dooo do… do… do… dooo dooo do… I can’t turn it off. Even when the song is over, its addictive beat burrows into my brain, and I am ear-worming it the rest of the day.

It’s not like I declare the singer the poster child of pond-scum. His equally-scummy girlfriend has the moral fiber of a gnat. She’s the one who posted the personal ad in the first place. The story is the Gift of the Magi gone right, yet, so very wrong.

At tale’s end they discover they both loved piña coladas, the

taste of champagne, making love in the moonlight, getting caught in the rain. We are supposed to be all happy for them now that they discovered they have a lot more in common (mostly alcohol) than once imagined?

Aren’t these the kinds of gushy, romantic things couples discover early-on? What were they talking about over dinner? The coolness of selfies? The nutritiousness of the beige food group?

And yet…

The song’s story is compact, it has a surprise ending, the beat is infectious, and the tune is catchy. It has survivability. It was number one on Billboard charts for the top 100 of 1979. Thirty-six years later it’s still rockin’ on the radio. Compared to the lyrics of some rap songs, Rupert Holmes’ release is positively angelic.

Maybe the problem is this song and I have been together too long. I’ll write a classified and see if someone gets me out of my same old dull routine. My ad will read: Do you like the “Piña Colada Song?” If the answer is “yes,” I am going to have to develop a liking for pineapple and coconut…or run like hell.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com

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HOMES & LIFESTYLES

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HOMES & LIFESTYLES

Highlands First Baptist Church

by Wiley Sloan First Baptist Church of Highlands’ presence on Main Street is testament to the unflagging devotion of the town’s earliest citizens.

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arly settlers to Highlands were drawn here for a variety of reasons -- a climate to cure respiratory ills or a temperate belt along the hillsides for growing superior fruit.

Whatever their reason, their call to faith is what has made Highlands the loving community it is today. Times were hard in those early years so one’s faith was crucial to carry you through trials and tribulations.

Before church buildings dotted Highlands’ Main Street, early settlers gathered in homes to study the Bible and share their love of God. The 1884 Baptist Conference records home meetings of devout Baptists in Highlands. For almost 20 years they saved their pennies and nickels so that in 1904 they moved into their first permanent building atop the knoll at 220 Main Street. It had recently become available when the two Methodist congregations merged and built their own building.

With or without a building, their love of God called them to minister in the community. The church’s history highlights the regular growth

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of the congregation. A vibrant Sunday School program, Youth Groups, Women and Men’s groups have guided this congregation as they shared God’s love with the community. Like a vein of gold running through the Comstock mines, this congregation’s zeal and fervor guide them in all that they do.

Currently Pastor Mark Ford oversees the flock as they minister to their members and the community.

Highlands’ Summer Sing, where the choirs of the area churches gather to sing praises, is an annual favorite of the community. As seasonal folks return each year, the congregation embarks on their Summer Faith & Family nights, sharing God’s love with one and all. No matter your age you’ll find welcoming hearts and open hands for you at First Baptist Church of Highlands. For more information about their many programs or to learn the times of their services, visit fbchighlands. org or call (828) 526-4153.

Rebooting Your Brain HOMES & LIFESTYLES

Healthy living requires a commitment to taking care of the body and the mind.

Contributed by Jim Johnson, DC, DACBN & Resa Johnson, DC, DACBN, Cashiers Chiropractic and Acupuncture (828) 743-9070

“

Die Young as Late as Possible.”

This is a great quote

from Ashley Montagu!

This resonates with me. Live life, enjoy everything good this world has to offer, play hard, and then get out before our life becomes burdened with ill-health, brittle bones, and a foggy brain.

In November, I turned 68 years young. With this number came several thoughts -- What can I do better to maintain my health?

How do I keep my body and brain functioning at a level that growing older will be an easy transition?

Blaming health issues on age is not my style of thinking, nor perhaps should it be yours.

Arriving at the age of 68 occurred much more quickly than I had imagined possible. It is not too late for any of us to act, the body is miraculous and, given the correct

care, has an unbelievable capacity to heal. Did you know that every cell in your body is replaced over a one-year period. So next year at this time you can be a new you!

Eat well and that means no GMO’s, walk every day for 30 minutes (do this every day for 30 days and you will feel significantly better), take appropriate supplements for you (the quality of our food is not what it used to be), meditate, think positively, drink plenty of good clean water, take yoga classes, take as few drugs as possible (talk to your Medical Doctor to see if it’s necessary to be on all of the drugs you’re taking), receive regular chiropractic adjustments, and take advantage of new integrative approaches that can

improve your health.

Balance, good memory, and continuing strong cognitive skills are some of my concerns.

So what did I do? I enrolled in a neurology class and started to find methods that would help my aging brain. Neurofeedback is a simple concept, but can be a game changer. The computer monitors your brainwave activity while you watch a movie or listen to music. When deviations from the intentioned brainwave activity occur, the computer triggers alerts to the subconscious which allows the brain to adjust itself back to a healthy pattern. With repetition, the brain eventually learns how to maintain itself in the normal ranges. Check out betterbrainofWNC.com.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com

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A Novel Idea HOMES & LIFESTYLES

by Donna Rhodes The Book Club at The Bascom welcomes author and yoga leader Monette Chilson at 3:00 P.M. Thursday, July 23.

The event is free and open to everyone. For more information, write to patlesjasmine@yahoo.com.

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very fourth Thursday, May through October, the Book Club at The Bascom meets to discuss each month’s group book selection.

Monette Chilson, author of the awardwinning “Sofia Rising: Awakening Your Sacred Wisdom Through Yoga,” is featured from 3:00 to 5:00 P.M. July 23. Chilson will make a personal appearance and discuss her take on the Western world’s approach to spirituality and how we can broaden that experience through yoga and contemplation.

Chilson speaks and writes passionately about the intersection of faith and yoga, as well as the recovery of the feminine face of God. She has contributed to Yoga Journal, elephant journal, Integral Yoga Magazine, and Christian

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Yoga Magazine.

Book Club Spokeswoman Patricia Williams says, “We are a diverse group of professional women: retirees, former teachers, and a therapist. Each brings a unique point of view to our monthly discussions.

“We are deeply fortunate to have Ms. Chilson share her book and her experience with us in this, our second season.”

The club is growing and invites interested women to join. Everyone is welcome to attend the July meeting whether or not she is a club member. As a courtesy, if convenient, please RSVP. This is a free event.

For more info about meet-the-author, club membership, and the club’s book list, contact Patricia Williams at patlesjasmine@yahoo.com.

Alaska Awaits HOMES & LIFESTYLES

Contributed by Jodi Moore, Cruise Planners, www.needfortravel.com Exotic and unspoiled, Alaska exerts a siren song for adventurous travelers.

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here are so many reasons to travel! It is considered one of the most enjoyable ways to spend your time, whether your aim is to relax and renew, celebrate a milestone event, immerse yourself in a new culture, check out incredible food and entertainment, or to just satisfy some wanderlust!

An Alaskan cruise offers some spectacular sights -- from viewing humpback whales to experiencing ancient glaciers. The coastal ports along the way also offer a look at the cultures and historical events that have shaped Alaska, from Russian settlements to gold rush boomtowns.

But encompassing more than 570,000 square miles, Alaska offers much more than its coastal attractions. Often touted as “America’s last unspoiled frontier,” Alaska boasts millions of acres of national parkland, comprised of lush forests, snowcapped mountains, icy tundra and plentiful wildlife.

The best way to experience Alaska’s coast and beyond is with a cruise tour. These land-and-sea packages combine an oceangoing cruise with several days spent on land, offering a more in-depth look at a particular region.

Alaska cruise tours include either an Inside Passage cruise -- sailing through the glacier-rich passage north of Vancouver, British Columbia, to southeast Alaska ports as far north as Skagway -- or a Gulf of Alaska cruise, one that covers more of the state’s spectacular coastline as far north as Anchorage.

The land portion can be taken either before or after the cruise, featuring sites such as Denali National Park, the Yukon gold rush country or the Canadian Rockies. Travelers stay overnight in some of Alaska’s best wilderness lodges or hotels, and transportation between sites is provided via deluxe motor coach or glass-domed railcars, offering incredible views of the passing scenery. Guided sightseeing and meals are often included in the land package, making cruise tours a great value.

Denali National Park is the main highlight of Alaska cruise-tour itineraries. Encompassing 6 million acres of pristine landscape, it’s also home to North America’s highest peak, Mount McKinley. Here, visitors have a chance to see grizzly bears, caribou and Dall sheep.

Alaska cruise tours cater to a wide age range, from schoolchildren to the retired set. Lately, Alaska cruise tours are attracting younger travelers, especially families. This is due to the innovative onboard kids’ programs offered by most cruise lines today, as well as the more adventurous land excursions such as river rafting, kayaking, deep-sea fishing and dog sledding.

The Alaska cruise tour season is relatively short, lasting from May to September. During this period, Alaska experiences long hours of daylight. The most affordable rates are offered in May and September, the season’s off-peak periods.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com

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Dealing with the Healing HOMES & LIFESTYLES

Healing from a serious injury requires a bit of wisdom and a lot of patience.

Contributed by Dr. Sue Aery, Aery Chiropractic & Acupuncture (828) 526-1022

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njuries fall into many categories as well as different timelines for healing.

Whether it is a bone, muscle, tendon, or ligament, an injury is real and takes time to heal.

Whatever tissue is involved determines how quickly the body can take care of the healing on its own.

For example, a fracture or break of the outer bone surface will heal more quickly than a sprain of a ligament.

Did you ever hear someone say, “I would have been better off breaking my ankle than spraining it?�

Because it is imperative to quality healing and the reduction of swelling and inflammation, blood flow will determine how fast the tissue heals. In order of vascularity (the amount of blood flow that a tissue receives), bone is the most vascular and ligament the least...so a break does often heal faster than a sprain!

A sprain is an injury of ligament tissue, usually stretched beyond its normal limit and sometimes resulting in torn fibers. A serious ligament injury can result in instability of a joint and an even longer healing time. The ligaments are made of tissue that connect bone to bone, binding a joint and making it very stable. When a ligament is severely stretched it can take weeks and even months to heal due to the lack of vascularity and the instability created by the injury process.

Not only does the tissue need to heal and strengthen, the joint itself also needs recovery time to heal the nerves called proprioceptors.

These are specialized nerves in each joint whose role is to determine where

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and when the joint needs to move.

An ankle sprain is often prone to re-injury if the nerves are not reconditioned properly to mend the stability and action of the joint.

Proper care and rehab are imperative to permanent healing and restored function. Some great natural treatments to enhance and help the healing process are acupuncture, muscle stimulation, massage, exercises designed to improve balance and co-ordination, and even chiropractic care to stimulate the nervous system and keep the joint in proper alignment.

If you have an injury, especially a sprain, get it looked at immediately and take the right course of action to heal quickly and effectively.

njuries fall into many categories as well as different timelines for healing. Whether it is a bone, muscle, tendon, or ligament, an injury is real and takes time to heal. Whatever tissue is involved determines how quickly the body can take

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SERVICES BEAUTY

CABINET DESIGN

ACCOMMODATIONS

BUSINESS SERVICES

CONSIGNMENT

BEAUTY

CABINET DESIGN

CONSTRUCTION

ACCOMMODATIONS

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SERVICES

FLOORING

LOCAL FOODS

PAINTING

GUTTERS

MASSAGE

REMODELING

LAWN/HOME SERVICES

NURSERY

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GIVING BACK

The Power of an Hour

by Jenny King Big Brothers / Big Sister volunteer Julie Schott’s seven year commitment to a “little” gets our nod for volunteer of the month.

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ulie Schott, has volunteerism in her blood. From an early age she has been involved with giving her time to her church, Habitat for Humanity, and the Red Cross. But seven years ago she became a mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters in Highlands and that, she says, made a positive impact on her life. She laughs and says she stumbled into her role as a mentor by accident. While working at the HighlandsCashiers Land Trust, located at the Peggy Crosby Center in Highlands, she started talking with a woman who worked for Big Brothers Big Sisters. Little did she know how it would impact her world. Her “Little” as she calls him, was only eight years old at the time. She would meet him once a week at the Highlands School and they’d play basketball, kickball – anything active. After a couple of years their relationship went from school-based to community-based which allowed the two of them to become more adventuresome. They hiked and fished together and bonded through their joint love of the great outdoors. Her “Little” is

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not so little anymore, having become a teenager. He has moved from the area, but Julie says they still maintain a close relationship thanks to texting and phone calls. She still nags him about his homework and he will stop by to visit her anytime he comes back to Highlands. Since becoming a mentor, Julie’s life has changed. She’s become a mom and she says her work with Big Brothers Big Sisters has opened her up to better communication with, and understanding of, her own son. Now serving on the advisory council, Schott encourages people to become involved through mentoring. There are so many young boys and girls right here in Highlands who are anxious to have someone simply spend an hour a week with them. The rewards of doing so are numerous.

She says that it has given her a great sense of accomplishment to have helped this young man, simply by being a consistent part of his life. For more information on how you can get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters, please contact Debbie Lassiter at (828) 526-4044.

Groundbreaking Way to Save Lives GIVING BACK

Contributed by David Stroud, Executive Director, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society | Photo by Marty Boone

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“CHHS is committed to he Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society has eliminating animal cruelty and reducing unwanted pet broken ground on the overpopulation,” says David largest expansion in the 28-year Stroud, Executive Director of history of the non-profit animal the Cashiers-Highlands Humane welfare organization.

The new CHHS Adoption Society. “That’s why our intake of abandoned and stray animals Center is being built on the 10and owner-surrendered pets acre campus of the no-kill shelter, and the new facility will double has tripled in the past three years, and why we are currently the capacity of the Humane increasing our capacity with a Society to save lives, provide new Adoption Center to save and compassionate care, and find rescue even more animals in the forever homes for abandoned CHHS Board of Directors, staff and volunteers at the June 4th and neglected animals. future. It is also why, through the groundbreaking of the new CHHS Adoption Center. generous support of our donors, The new CHHS Adoption we have helped provide low-cost Center will feature 40 individual state-of-the-art dog kennels, a small breed/puppy room, a quiet and spay/neuter assistance for more than 1,000 pets in the past three years.”

Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society is located on Highway 64 in furnished meet-and-greet room for potential adopters to spend time with their new best friend, and a multi-purpose room that will be used Sapphire, North Carolina, two miles east of the Cashiers Crossroads. The as an indoor dog training studio as well as a classroom for humane no-kill shelter is open seven days a week, 10:00 A.M to 5:00 P.M Monday through Saturday, and noon to 5:00 P.M on Sunday. Visit CHHS online education school field trips.

The 4,750-sq. ft. adoption center was designed by one of the at chhumanesociety.org to see pictures and descriptions of all the dogs, industry’s leading shelter architects Rick Bacon of Clearwater, Florida, cats, puppies, and kittens looking for forever homes.

For more information, please call the shelter at (828) 743-5752 or and is being constructed by Western Builders of Sylva, North Carolina. email info@chhumanesociety.org.

Expected completion date is December 1.

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GIVING BACK

Horse Cove Eco-Tour Contributed by Julie Schott, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust will host a tour of storied Horse Cove in Highlands, Tuesday, July 21.

Reservations are required – (828) 526-1111 or email Julie.hitrust@earthlink.net.

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ocals know about a place not too far from downtown Highlands whose natural wonders are as rich as its history.

Our town’s first settlers made their homes here and the stories of those pioneers still echo from the surrounding mountains.

Today’s Horse Cove is a beautiful and serene landscape with green pastures, beautiful cottages, streams, forest lands, and even a grass runway. However, the cove has changed much over the years. Dating back to 4,600 years ago, the valley bottom was covered by a Southern Appalachian Bog complete with sundews and pitcher plants.

The Native Americans of the region would have seen this as a rich hunting ground for water fowl and turtles. With the arrival of the white man, in the late 1700’s Horse Cove was used as a pasture for livestock, hence the name. Later it was a destination for both tired and weary travelers and their horses as they headed north to the Highlands Plateau. Folks stayed at the Hill House Inn established in 1847. The owner of this inn, Stanhope Hill,

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became the first elected major of Highlands in 1883. The cove even played a role in the infamous “Trail of Tears.”

Many stories of early life in the cove live on and thanks to the foresight of conservation-minded people like Carolyn McCall, Beth Greenlee, The Turner Family, The Hertwig Family, and others, the natural wonders that make Horse Cove so unique will remain forever as well.

These folks recognized the importance of protecting the cove’s robust natural heritage and have conserved their family lands, some of the cove’s most treasured places, with Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust (HCLT).

On Tuesday, July 21, join Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust and explore with us the wonders of Horse Cove present and past and hear her stories as we tour the Hill House, look for bogs, and explore Granite City on our Heart of Horse Cove Eco Tour.

Reservations are required: (828) 526-1111, or email Julie.hitrust@earthlink.net.

Senior Pet Transitions GIVING BACK

Contributed by Kathleen Bub, President Forever Farm

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caretakers cottage. The 2,600 square he Friends for Life Forever Farm has been housing and caring for foot clinic building is in impeccable condition and needs little remodeling senior and special needs animals for our intended use. A memorial for ten years. Some of our dogs and garden will be developed where the cats have been fortunate enough to ashes of our departed animal friends be adopted into loving homes despite their age or infirmity. But, many will be spread. An invitation will be extended to our supporters to scatter animals have left this life spending the ashes of their beloved pets as well. their last days in our care. As time passes we find our population The beautiful trails along the creek will be developed with “contemplation becoming more in need of palliative benches” by the waterfalls for visitors care, and hospice. to escape the turmoil they sometimes We are very excited to announce feel in their daily lives, especially after that Friends for Life has received the loss of a beloved pet. a significant charitable gift from We encourage everyone wishing Mrs. Nancy Pickelsimer of Brevard to be a part of this compassionate designated for the purchase of the Forever Farm is dedicated to the care of senior pets. project to contact us at (828) 508property once known as Frances Warde Health Services, located on Highway 64 in Rosman. The 2460 or friendsforlife.foreverfarm@gmail.com. Friends for Life is a primary use of the clinic on this property will be to provide a tranquil, 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization that operates the Forever spiritual, setting for our animals in need of palliative care and hospice. Farm, a lifelong sanctuary in Lake Toxaway for senior and special The facility will be named in memory of Mrs. Pickelsimer’s late husband needs companion animals, as well as our new facility for animal hospice and palliative care. Tax deductible donations can be made Joseph, who was a passionate animal lover.

This beautiful five acre wooded property is adjacent to the national online at friendsforlifeforeverfarm.org or mailed to P.O. Box 340, forest and includes several small waterfalls, meandering trails, and a Sapphire, NC 28774.

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Two Divines Help Equines GIVING BACK

Contributed by Sue Blair, Director Carpe Diem Farms The work of Carpe Diem Farms is accomplished thanks to a small coterie of faithful volunteers.

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olunteers Bring a Breath of Fresh Air to Carpe Diem Farms!

Amazing people show up at Carpe Diem Farms! Some for a look and a brief “hello” and others who choose CDF as their place to contribute their time, talents, and treasures.

Our latest volunteers, two remarkable women, come every Monday morning promptly at 10:00 A.M., reporting for work in the Easy’s Slipper manufacturing plant, AKA Dead Eye’s Barn.

Martha “Mott” Wight and Martha Parish, residents of Chestnut Hill and long-time friends and supporters of the horses of Carpe Diem Farms asked if there was a job they could do to be “in on” the ground floor of the revolution in glue-on horse shoes that they know Easy’s Slipper is creating. Volunteers with their enthusiasm, work ethic, sense of humor, love for me, the horses and the place don’t come along every day. I jumped at the opportunity!

What is it about volunteers in their 90’s that bring such life to our work? You read that right! Martha Parish just had her 99th birthday celebration May 16. Laughter is the language heard the most while they work. They arrive happy and leave happier, satisfied that they have made a contribution. Recently they said they had discussed needing time and a half credit for working on Memorial Day! They knew of child labor laws but nothing for workers in their 90s.

Martha and Mott have lived full and interesting lives and they continue to live life to the fullest. They bring gifts beyond measure to our work and us. Every task has their signature of perfection. They give everything their best. Because of these amazing women more horses around the globe will be healed with Easy’s Slipper.

Carpe Diem Farms, Inc. is a 501©3 educational foundation, “Exploring the Human Potential Through Equines.”

Sharing Good Times Contributed by Debbie Lassiter, Big Brothers Big Sisters

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“doing their own thing,” very so often group it’s nice to get everyone outings are planned together for an occasion. for the children and Last month’s group mentors in the Big Brothers excursion was a special treat.

Big Sisters Community For the first time, I decided it Based program. would be great to offer an Sometimes the outings outing to both the Highlands are simple fun like an and Cashiers “Bigs” afternoon of fishing, or maybe just a walk around and “Littles” together. I Highlands with an ice cream contacted Sue Blair of Carpe Diem Farms and asked treat in hand. Sometimes if I could bring the BBBS special events are planned gang, and she graciously with other organizations welcomed us. like the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, who will provide Although the intermittent an educational nature pouring rain prevented the kids from getting to ride, just experience. In Cashiers we have summer get together the chance to groom, walk, feed, and talk to the horses parties; a pool party and cookout, or field games and was a wonderful experience lunch at the Zachary Tolbert for all. Thank you to Sue, her Those occasional outings are a treasured part of the House grounds husband Jack, and Sully for Big Brothers Big Sisters experience. patiently teaching our “Bigs” Community Based refers to the traditional BBBS program where the “Big” and “Little” plan their and “Littles” how to care for a horse. The camaraderie was terrific, own outing in the community, such as hiking to a waterfall, going to a the horses beautiful. Carpe Diem Farms is a great resource for our movie, doing volunteer work, or even making yummy cookies together. community. Can’t wait to plan the next fun adventure!

It’s their one-on-one time together to explore and share good times. So For more information on how to support the BBBS program, contact although most of the time the Community Based matches are basically Program Coordinator Debbie Lassiter at (828) 526-4044.

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Literacy GIVING BACK

Outreach Contributed by Tonya Hensley, Literacy Council of Highlands The sleepy summer season is anything but sleepy as the council broadens its scope in the community.

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hile summer is our quietest season, we are still very busy around here doing outreach in the community, working on events, and planning for the 2015-2016 school year.

Outreach: Thanks to a grant from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, we will be working with preschoolers at Highlands Community Child Development Center this summer, helping their staff get them ready for kindergarten. While we will be working with the children weekly, we’re providing two computers with the RazKidz program at the center and training the preschool staff on running the program so that children can work on their skills daily. This unique program contains pre- and post-assessments, which will allow us to track the progress of each child.

Bingo: Join us July 9 at 7:00 P.M. at the Highlands Community Building for Rotary Literacy Bingo! This is a night for the entire family, filled with fun and laughter for all ages. Fifteen games at $1 each is an inexpensive evening’s entertainment – and you might even win some cash!

Summer Camp: We are partnering with the Rec Park and the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust this year for our summer camp. It will include four weekly nature/literacy days for the children attending the Rec Park’s summer program. We will provide books and materials for the camp, and have fun learning about nature with the children.

Franklin Tutoring: Our next venture is a tutoring program for children in Franklin, which will begin in September. Carol Waldroop is our newest staff member, and she is currently looking for volunteers for this program which will run during the school day. Franklin has many children in need of this program and there is no literacy council there, so we stepped up to offer this at all Franklin elementary schools.

Carol is working with teachers and administrators to implement the program in all four schools.

Programming: Individual tutoring, GED, and ESL classes run throughout the summer. After school and in-school programs start again in September.

We are currently seeking tutors in all subject areas. You don’t need any special training; we’ll provide that for you.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com

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Our Own Voice GIVING BACK

Contributed by Donita Cline The National Alliance on Mental Illness offers support and understanding in Macon County.

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ndividuals with mental illness can find the freedom and the skills to become productive, happy, tax-paying citizens.

As Americans, we are blessed and there are many resources right here in Macon County North Carolina.

Mental illness is not a choice.

How the individual, the family, and the community respond to mental illness is a choice.

Accepting mental illness can be difficult. The National Alliance on Mental Illness is here to offer support.

Children who struggle with mental illness often do not receive treatment until adulthood.

The reasons for

delayed treatment include social stigma, denial, lack of services, or lack of education. Veterans who suffer often face many of these same challenges.

As a community, we can love our neighbors and not judge their afflictions and pains.

Changing the community’s attitude on mental illness will allow more people to be comfortable to actively seek treatment, or admit family members may need treatment.

Long periods of suffering are not necessary.

By addressing mental illness with education, support, and treatment, we are enabling these individuals to find the

ability to take care of their hygiene and health, making it possible to live long, happy, and productive lives, as taxpaying citizens who contribute to society.

Mental illnesses are treatable. Recovery is possible!

Awareness and prevention allow for effective and early treatment. For symptoms/early warning signs, and information on specific disorders, and/or resources, contact NAMI. NAMI Appalachian South has several educational programs per year, including In Our Own Voice, a program that is available to any group wanting to know more about mental

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com

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illness. Visit nami.org.

Donations allow NAMI to continue to be an advocate for the mentally ill, to raise awareness, to educate, and promote quality of life for the individuals, families and communities affected by mental illness. You can reach us through P.O. Box 464, Otto NC 28763. We offer Support Meetings every Thursday from 6:45 to 8:15 P.M. at 4668 Old Murphy Road in Franklin, North Carolina.

NAMI NC Appalachian South can be reached at (828) 5269510 or (828) 507-8789; you can also contact us through DCwithNAMI@yahoo.com or nami-maconnc.org.

To Fill a Child’s Empty Belly GIVING BACK

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Contributed by Franklin W. Ingram

those among us who are still ere on the Highlands Plateau we’re immersed hungry. Certainly, those of us here on the Highlands Plateau in the greatest floral realize that we have a standing and faunal diversity in North invitation to join this largely America, and on many a invisible host who already glorious day, particularly after a delicious meal, we feel contribute large or small to a continuing effort to alleviate the blessed to enjoy such “heaven hunger among us. on earth.” But perhaps, at such moments, we can pause to give Although feeding the hungry may be the largely invisible thought to those among us service of divers individuals, who are still hungry. churches, civic organizations, Year after year, North and businesses, there are a few Carolina, Georgia and South Carolina rank in the top visible signs of these efforts and The Highlands Food Pantry provides a vital lifeline to the silent one of these is the Highlands 15 states for “child food needy in the community. To help, call (828) 482-0558.

Food Pantry. insecurity.” The experts call it Month in and month out, “food insecurity,” but a child’s the Highlands Food Pantry opens its doors each Monday afternoon empty stomach calls it plain old hunger.

Should there be child-hunger in this place that is sometimes thought to those who meet its eligibility guidelines. Its customers can shop among the shelves for an allotted amount of canned and dry goods. of as “heaven on earth”?

The answer to this question is surely, “No!” Yet we know, even To this are added a few fresh vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, without scientific studies, that hunger lurks right here and now in potatoes, and onions. Dry beans and rice are reliable staples, while fresh meat is a very rare treat. It is all plain but nutritious fare that can these beautiful Appalachian Mountains.

We can never know all the reasons why hunger exists right here in fill a child’s empty belly.

The Food Pantry is an all-volunteer service and can be reached at the midst of so much blessed plenty, but this truth sitting side-by-side with enjoyment of their own “heaven on earth” has led many to serve (828) 482-0558 or highfoodpantry@yahoo.com.

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GIVING BACK

Leave One, Receive One

by Jenny King

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Hudson Library becomes part of a worldwide movement to share beloved books.

ittle. Free. Library.

While these three words might describe our own Hudson Library, they refer to a movement that’s building across the world.

A Little Free Library is a “take a book, return a book” gathering place where neighbors share their favorite literature and stories.

In its most basic form, a Little Free Library is a box full of books where anyone may stop by and pick up a book (or two) and bring back another book to share.

You can, too!

The Hudson Library has installed its Highlands location at the Kelsey Hutchinson Park and now Highlands has joined the map for reasons other than its first class amenities. Visit LittleFreeLibrary.org and you can search the map to see where the closest installation might be to you.

How did this decidedly low-tech venture start? In 2009 Todd Bol of Hudson, Wisconsin, built a model of a one-room schoolhouse as a tribute to his mother, a former schoolteacher who loved reading. He filled it with books and put it on a post in his front yard.

His neighbors and friends loved it. He built several more and gave them away.

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Each one had a sign that said “Free Books.” From here it grew into a worldwide grassroots literacy movement. The Free Little Library is just another of the community outreach programs sponsored by The Hudson Library.

Speaking of books – how’s that summer reading going for your student? Believe it or not, school starts in Macon County next month, but there’s still time to check off that reading list. Just stop by the Hudson Library, where they are able to help you find Accelerated Reading titles and numerous copies of teacher-recommended books.

As mentioned in a previous article, if your student is 16 or older, no parental permission is required to get a library card. Community coffee continues during the summer. Community Coffee is a collaborative effort between the Hudson Library, the Town of Highlands and various community organizations. Each month the library provides the space and brews the (donated) Community Coffee, a community group provides or funds refreshments, and Mayor Patrick Taylor facilitates the discussion. For more information, call the library at (828) 526-3031.

Library hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10:00 A.M. to 5:30 P.M.; and Saturdays, 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Visit them online at FontanaLib.org/Highlands.

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Center for Acupunture BUSINESS

by Wiley Sloan Kim Bonsteel’s Center for Acupuncture & Healing Arts offers safe relief for a host of ailments.

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enter for Acupuncture & Healing Arts is now in its sixth season serving Highlands.

Owner Kim Bonsteel is a nationally board-certified Diplomate of Acupuncture. He received four years of training at Jung Tao School of Classical Chinese Medicine, and is now a faculty member at the school in Boone, North Carolina.

“Chinese herbal medicine is really a complete system of health care, with a literate scientific tradition going back 2,300 years,” says Bonsteel.

“In our country, acupuncture is best known for pain, but acupuncture and Chinese medicine are so much more. The greatest breakthroughs in the history of Chinese medicine happened during times of serious epidemic diseases that make Ebola sound tame.”

The World Health Organization says acupuncture is effective for such diverse conditions as high blood pressure, migraines, nerve-related bladder dysfunction, arthritis, the common cold, bronchial asthma, gum disease, irritable bowel, stomach inflammation, fibromyalgia, menstrual problems, depression, anxiety, and insomnia, to name a few.

“We do get relief for low back pain, sciatica, neck pain, tennis elbow, shoulder injuries, plantar pain, but many other conditions respond well to the strategies of Chinese medicine, without the side effects you see with drugs,” says Bonsteel. “All healing comes from within; we use methods that optimize the body’s natural healing ability.”

Part of his practice is orthopedic manual therapy, correcting structure

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and movement problems that cause discomfort and pain.

“It’s still amazing to me that you can normalize muscle tension, teach a few new habits, and the spine comes into line on its own,” he says.

Bonsteel has been a licensed massage and bodywork therapist for 12 years. Part of his acupuncture education was in Chinese medical massage.

Kim is excited about offering a new form of health care delivery for the first time. “Community acupuncture” will be available most Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30 to 6:30 P.M. Patients can walk in without an appointment, and loose clothing is recommended. “This will be affordable acupuncture treatment in a group setting,” says Bonesteel. “The interview and exam will still be private, but treating three or four people in the same room lowers the cost. We have a sliding scale, and no proof of income is needed. It’s an honor system.”

If there is a lot of demand, he plans to offer community acupuncture other days and times. The traditional, private session remains available.

Bonsteel offers a free, 10-minute consultation if you want to learn how acupuncture can help.

One of the barriers keeping more people from trying acupuncture is fear of needles.

“This is nothing like getting a shot or having your blood drawn,” he says.

“The pins are sterile and disposable, as fine as cat whiskers. People say it’s like a mosquito bite, or they don’t feel much at all. Non-needle alternatives, herbal medicine, and nutritional therapy are available.”

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BUSINESS

Way to Grow!

Bob Kieltyka

by Donna Rhodes | Photo by Marjorie Christiansen A solid tourism trade is an essential part of a healthy local economy.

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rom Kitty Hawk to the Cullasaja, tourism is the fuel that stokes much of North Carolina’s economic fire.

The beautiful Blue Ridge is a picturesque calling card for Western North Carolina. Highlands, along with surrounding Macon County, is a multi-faceted jewel in a magnificent mountain setting. White-water rafting, canoeing, hiking, biking, fishing, golf, tennis, pickleball, sightseeing, mountain music, Appalachian craft, photo ops, and so much more make the Highlands Plateau an annual destination for thousands. Some enjoy it so much that they buy a vacation or retirement home in the area.

All those visits equal revenue for the region. The study “The Economic Impact of Travel on North Carolina Counties” prepared for Visit North Carolina by the United States Travel Association reflects the tremendous financial boon for our county over the past couple of decades. With the exception of a couple of setbacks during a shaky national economy, Highlands and Macon County have grown several percentage

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points each year.

Bob Kieltyka, executive director of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce and member of the Highlands Area Tourism Development Commission says, “The latest studies completed by the Hospitality & Tourism Program at Western Carolina University’s College of Business clearly demonstrate that over the last several years the tourism economy has grown steadily, while other sectors such as manufacturing, construction and real estate have declined.”

He also points out that in 2013 the taxes generated by tourist spending saved each Macon County household $686 in taxes – how is that for a job well done?

We can thank our chamber for helping make this possible. Their management and foresight keep the gem of Highlands sparkling, which benefits the entire county. To learn more about Chamber business and the impact it has on commerce and community, call (828) 526-5841.

Destiny Unfolds BUSINESS

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by Jenny King

Over a quiet lunch, karma came in to o, what is karma?

According to Webster, karma is the play again.

As both women have extensive retail force created by a person’s actions knowledge, they very quickly put a plan that, some people believe, causes good or together and were able to open the store in bad things to happen to that person. The just six weeks. Every small detail had been owners of Karma in Cashiers must have done a basketful of good deeds, because thought of except the name. Taking the “KA” from Kathy, the “MA” from Marian what brought them together is pretty and the “R” for the right thing at the darn special. right time in the right place, the inevitable Kathy Meeker and Marian Duncan results of good karma came into play again lived on the same curvy stretch of road and “Karma…for Good Things” was born. in the Cashiers area without knowing one another. They knew each other’s Golden The store features Urban Rustic and Asian furniture with a few antique pieces Retrievers before they even met! thrown in for good measure. Lamps, They first encountered one another interesting glassware, books, and smaller at another Cashiers’ establishment, gifts are also available. Walking into the Bumpkins. Marian managed the store store, you’ll instantly feel calmer as you’re for 10 years and Kathy worked there surrounded by soft colors and soothing for six years before retiring.

When textures. There is no rush, simply an the small building formerly housing For Kathy Meeker and Marian Duncan, opening a atmosphere of ease.

Chivaree became available in April, Kathy fun gallery in Cashiers was clearly a Karma…For Good Things is a place you’ll saw the opportunity to open a small matter of Karma. want to visit time and time again. They’re store with a personalized feel. Marian, easy to find on Highway 107 north of the despite her seemingly boundless energy, needed to do something a bit less taxing than managing two retail Crossroads in Cashiers. They’re tucked behind the gazebo at Zoller’s Hardware and may be reached by phone at (828) 743-2864. establishments simultaneously.

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BUSINESS Schmitt Builders building ca. 1915, Photo by by Mattie Hall Anderson

Schmitt’s 50 Year Legacy

Schmitt Builders building ca. 2015

Contributed by Kelsey Schmitt In 1965, George Schmitt Sr. and his family made the journey to Highlands from Long Island, New York. And Highlands is forever grateful.

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laurel wood spindle back porch, or anyone who knows the a handmade farm table capturing history of Highlands, they family memories, a mountain brook know the “hideaway” was running alongside a one-of-a-kind discovered at the intersection of vacation home, just to name a few. two lines distinctly drawn between It’s these simplistic, yet unique New York and New Orleans, and details that tie the Schmitt family Chicago and Savannah. There, to the families of Highlands by an developers forecasted, would lay unforgettable line for decades, and future trade routes crossing at even centuries to come. Highlands a populated metropolis. While is the heart of the Blue Ridge calculations were a bit off, and just shy of the largest city of Atlanta by Mountains, and Schmitt Building 120 miles, they were correct that Contractors is the heart of many Highlands homes. those Atlanta and other southern (L to R): George F. Schmitt, Seth Schmitt, Tori Schmitt, Gary Today, brother duo George and city inhabitants would find their Schmitt, George S. Schmitt (Sr) and Marie Schmitt Gary Schmitt and George’s children haven in the town of Highlands Seth and Tori Schmitt continue to alongside long-time locals.

A similar line brought to Highlands a now 50-year-old entrepreneurial make dreams a reality through the family business. Throughout the staple. In 1965, George Schmitt Sr. and his family made the journey to years, many others sharing the Schmitt family name have participated Highlands from Levittown on Long Island, New York. This is when a in this age-old craftsman’s company including family matriarch family business began, and where it flourished. 2015 marks the 50th Marie Schmitt, and her sons Eric Schmitt, and architect Paul Schmitt, grandson and grader Sam Schmitt, and granddaughter Lindsay anniversary of Schmitt Building Contractors.

Most known for custom mountain homes and cabins featuring Schmitt. With many other grandchildren, and great-grandchildren restored woods, recycled rustic tins and metals, and craftsman calling Highlands home and sharing in a piece of the Schmitt family cabinetry, Schmitt Building Contractors has been creating a visible history, this business is sure to continue bringing the lines together line to the American dream for five decades. These lines are drawn successfully as long as there are dreams dreamt and mountain views between the picturesque Whiteside Mountain horizon seen from a to see.

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BUSINESS

Simple, Elegant, Natural

Diane Brady and Patti Coblentz

by Mary Jane McCall | Photo by Marjorie Christiansen Bella Cotn is a beguiling boutique predicated on a passion for the finest in cotton.

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ella Cotn opened its doors in May of this year, becoming Cashiers’ newest and freshest boutique. Owners Patti Coblentz and Diane Brady have a combined 25 years’ experience in the fashion industry.

Patti previously owned Cotn, a business in which she designed cotton fabrics and clothing, manufactured them, and sold wholesale products to catalogs and department stores, as well as having a small retail storefront in Brevard. Thus, was born the love of the Cotn line.

Diane is known for her handcrafted one-of-a-kind handbags, Bee Bags. She has a devoted clientele and her bags can be purchased locally at her store in Cashiers, as well as at high-end hotel and resort gift shops across the US. Patti closed her Cotn store but realized that the demand and following were still there. She and Diane formed a partnership and Cotn was re-established. They design and manufacture their own product, thus ensuring quality control every step of the way.

Bella Cotn is all about the cotton.

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More precisely, Peruvian pima cotton, one of the finest cottons available in the world today. This hand-harvested, prized luxury fiber is treasured for its incredible softness, brilliant luster, and long durability. This fabric becomes softer with each wearing. Here you will find a delightful array of robes, pajamas, sleep shirts, and activewear in a rainbow of colors and subtle patterns.

Bella Cotn is also about so much more. This boutique is a delight to the senses, from the colors and patterns of the clothing, to the natural fabrics that beckon you to take a closer look. This is casual lifestyle clothing at its best. They carry such exclusive lines as C P Shades, known for their simple and elegant natural linens and cottons; Pete and Greta, with their must-have signature cargo shorts, pants and capris; and, Johnny Was Workshop, clothes with a bohemian flair. They also carry a great line of accessories, soaps, lotions, and gift items.

They are located at 236 Highway 107 N, Suite C in Cashiers and are open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 A.M. until 5:00 P.M.

Any Make or Model BUSINESS

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by Jenny King

Mountain Motorwerks’ Mark ou have a hectic day planned and on top of that, you need Barrette loves cars. All cars. He also loves to provide the best auto to get your car inspected service around. They understand and the oil changed. how important vehicles are to How do you fit it all in? their customers and will do their Call Mountain Motorwerks in Highlands, since they’re best to get them up and running in short order. now certified to do NC Safety If that means they have to Inspections on all makes and models of cars. You can drop your jump-start your truck’s battery on Main Street, then so be it. They’re car off and they’ll take you to work a NAPA Auto Care Center and get or back home. parts delivered twice daily from Another scenario: you have NAPA Auto Parts in Cashiers. a 1997 Honda that desperately This means parts and repairs needs new tires. Yep, they can can be warrantied at any NAPA do that, too. They work on any Center nationwide, which is great make or model of car, foreign and for customers who live off the domestic, from a 1910 Model T to A love of all things automotive fuels Mountain Moterwerks’ mountain for part of the year. a 2015 Toyota Prius and everything commitment to quality service and customer care.

Restoring classic cars is one of their in between. Their attention to (L to R) Steve Mehder and Mark Barrette trademarks, but keep them in mind detail is obvious from the minute the next time you need your oil you pull into the lot at 518 Dillard Road (across from Dusty’s) on Highway 106. Glance at their service bays changed, new tires or if a check engine light comes on.

Visit them on Facebook and give them a call to schedule an and you’ll be amazed at the cleanliness and organization. That extends into the waiting room, where they provide hot drinks, free wifi, and the appointment at (828) 526-8448. Their hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. and they’re open on Saturdays by appointment. impressive model car collection of Mark Barrette.

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Spend the Day Finding your Treasure...

Visit Cashiers Consignment Shoppes

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To Highlands

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Chestnut Square

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Marmalade

Hwy. 64 W

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Lance Rd.

Cashiers

Hwy. 107 N

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Alexander Gardens

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Frank Allen Rd.

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BUSINESS

Caroline, Susie and David Young

75 Years Young

by Jenny King | Photo by Marjorie Christiansen

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transitioned the store from gifts n the world of retail it’s to clothing. It’s a small-town becoming difficult to find a store with big city style and a thriving business that has been devoted clientele of locals and family owned for generations. summer visitors alike. “We’re Wits’ End Shop has been both known for our colorful prints, a Main Street fixture and a cashmere and jewelry, but Highlands institution for over more than that, we’ve become seven decades and is celebrating a truly intergenerational store. its’ 75th anniversary. That means We have grandmothers and 75 years in continuous business in granddaughters shopping here the same location owned by three generations of the same family. at the same time,” says Susan.

In 1940 Mrs. Oliver Earle Young, Photos of Main Street through the decades show many Sr. bought the building that had changes over the years. The been Luke Rice’s meat market for Highlands Playhouse used to sell $2500. On one side was the post office and on the other side was tickets on the sidewalk in front Potts Market. Knowing the town of Wits’ End and The Highlander Thanks to a timeless blend of beautiful clothing and warm, Restaurant next door was in full needed somewhere to purchase personal service, Wit’s End has been a family-owned Highlands swing. The store’s building itself presents and wedding gifts, she landmark for 75 years. remains true to its heritage, as opened Wits’ End Shop. She sold old English silver, European porcelain, needlepoint, linens and old does its tradition of excellent customer service, beautiful clothing prints to “southern ladies and their families.” Her son Earle worked and timeless style. In a town where the retail scene is constantly in the store from the age of 12 and took over proprietorship with changing, generations of customers are happy to find Wits’ End his wife Mary Lu in the mid-1950s. After their passing, the torch has stayed close to its roots with the same familiar faces greeting was given to their son David’s wife Susan, who now manages the them every season. After 75 years, it is still a top shopping buying and daily operation of the business. Susan worked with destination. Throughout the decades, Wits’ End has earned its Mary Lu for nearly 25 years and during that time the two of them place at the apex of Highlands’ retail. Happy 75th!

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Handcrafted Heirlooms BUSINESS

by Jenny King

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of the colorful SolMate Socks they ou’re on the Dillard Road and see the Peak Experience signs. carry. These colorfully mismatched socks are made right here in a family Have you actually taken the owned mill in North Carolina. The time to stop? You should. You really, stunning hand-painted silk tunics really should. and shawls from Tennessee have As owner Victoria Ingate says, “We hear it all the time. ‘We drive by but become collectors’ items, perhaps because no two are alike. There’s this is the first time we’ve stopped.’ nothing like wearing something These folks always come back.”

One in particular does all her that no one else in the world will have!

Christmas shopping in May when If you’re looking for unique she’s here on vacation. And for gifts there’s no better place than good reason. The Ingates, Victoria, Peak Experience. One of the most Matthew and Rosemarie, know popular lines is the metal tableware what they’re doing. Peak Experience

by Michael Aram. has been in business for 17 years and Owners Matthew and Victoria Ingate have turned their They also have a large selection their success is, in part, because they Peak Experience into a shopping destination that’s unlike of both estate and contemporary listen to what their customers want. anything else in the world. jewelry for any age. Since their focus Apparently, quite a few want pottery. The store is full of handmade clay art that is collectible, is on handcrafted items made in America, you’re guaranteed to find a functional and one of a kind. Plan to spend some time exploring all piece that will easily become a treasured heirloom. You already know three floors. They have more pottery, as well as antiques, on the Peak Experience is located on Highway 106 (The Dillard Road) but did lowest level with a saleroom on the upper floor. There’s even an area you know you could also see many of their offerings on Facebook?

Give them a call at (828) 526-0229 and do take the time to stop by. geared toward children.

You may be familiar with the name, Peak Experience, because

thelaurelmagazine.com | July 2015 | 177

BUSINESS

Your Youthful Glow

by Mary Jane McCall | Photo by Marjorie Christiansen Dr. Bonnie Dean’s Pinnacle Anti Aging offers solutions for a more youthful appearance.

“

The best way to achieve younger, better looking skin and a trimmer appearance without surgery?”

Dr. Bonnie Dean and her staff at Pinnacle Anti Aging, located at 572 Highway 17 South (next to Cornucopia Restaurant) in Cashiers, have the knowledge and tools to help you achieve just that.

Established in 2015 by Dr. Dean and her husband Don Dean and their exceptional support staff, Pinnacle Anti Aging was born after 30 years of medical experience in aesthetics and weight control.

Dr. Dean partners with you to carefully establish a plan to help you maintain your best personal appearance and optimal weight.

Services available are Botox, a well-known and extensively used treatment to relax muscles of the face that tend to become over active as we age; Dermal Fillers to reestablish ratios of facial symmetry; and, skin tightening, which when combined with fillers, take years off your appearance. They also offer Photo Facials,

Microlaser Peels and Chemical Peels. Just imagine the most cutting edge approaches to help you maintain your youthful appearance and you will find them here.

Their approach to weight control begins with a thorough consultation to discuss your goals and formulate a plan to help you achieve them. Whether through medication, supplements, counseling, or a combination of all, they will help you formulate a sensible, personalized plan for you.

Above all, this is a place that values your physical and emotional health. Consider them your partner in helping you be as youthful and energized and as you would like to be.

They are hosting an open house on July 29 from 4:00 until 6:00 P.M. and would love for you to come by and find out more about their services. One lucky attendee will be the winner of a total facial makeover.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers visit thelaurelmagazine.com

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Stay, Play, Be a Dog BUSINESS

by Mary Jane McCall

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to her fully state-licensed Boarding hat dog lover among us doesn’t stress out Cabin. Here my dogs were welcomed with open paws by the when we think of going other canine quests. These were on vacation and leaving our pet grounded dogs who were only too behind? Well, stress no more and happy to welcome newcomers. I make an appointment to meet Linda Parrish and her staff at Loma was struck by the peace and quiet.

There was little of the barking I Linda Farm in Highlands. She’s so typically expect at a boarding truly created a pastoral paradise for our furry friends. kennel.

We walked inside to tour the It’s where dogs come to stay, cabin and bedding area which play, and be dogs. was spotlessly clean. Soft music As a dog owner myself I was was playing in the background. more than a little excited to find Both my dogs gave the place an out more about this idea of inenthusiastic thumbs up! home style boarding and acres of Outdoor time in the fenced free range play yards. To get the yards is supervised and when the full experience I arranged to take Linda Parrish’s Loma Linda Farm is as close to dogs go inside they are content my own dogs with me to look Doggie Paradise as a canine can get. and ready for a nap. Linda and her around. They are welcome, Linda said, but we’ll go through the interview process just as though they were staff know how much our dogs mean to us and they take their safety, wellbeing, and happiness very seriously. being admitted as guests.

Please keep in mind that they also offer doggy day care which provides “Don’t forget your immunization records,” she reminds.

The interview process was thorough and by the time we were finished your dog with a safe place to run and play with other dogs for a day.

For more information please visit their website at lomalindafarm.com Linda had a good idea that my dogs would get along well so we entered the fenced play area. First up was the small dog lot which is adjacent or call them at (828) 421-7922.

thelaurelmagazine.com | July 2015 | 179

BUSINESS

Falling Waters

by Mary Jane McCall Falling Waters community delivers on the promise of tranquil, close to nature living, while just a few miles from downtown Highlands.

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hat are you but their love of building lured looking for in a them into the development mountain home? business. They are very much If a peaceful, quiet “hands on developers” and neighborhood close to town live in and maintain Falling sounds ideal you need to Waters. It’s a joy for them to take a look at Falling Waters. help their neighbors see their Located just two-and-a-half dream home become a reality. miles from downtown, near Neil and Paula realize that Mountain Laurel Tennis building while living away from Club, this community feels Highlands is a complicated worlds away. business. The addition of an No through traffic, no Advocacy Service for those outside noise, just generously neighbors in the process of sized lots with Mother Nature building -- photos of your as your perfect neighbor. home as it is being built, Wildlife is abundant and videos and just serving as the the lush forest, cascading eyes and ears for you is the waterfalls and babbling creeks idea. They seek to make the surround you. building process as smooth Falling Waters is protected as possible. by the North Carolina Ground has been broken Community Act and their own for a new “aging-in-place” Developers Neil and Paula Van Hoogen well-thought out covenants, 3000 square-foot custom ensuring that this community retains its natural beauty and your home with an elevator. A creek front lot has been cleared and another property value. The unspoiled environment of Falling Waters is carefully beautiful home will be added to the community. Several easy build home protected…providing a seldom found balance between a residential sites are also available with the Forest Service as your backyard. The new community and its natural surroundings.

“Cottage Creek” section is in the planning stage.

Amenities include common park areas, paved roads, underground Visit their website at highlandsnchomesites.com or give them a call utilities and the best amenity -- good neighbors. at (828) 508-9952 and start exploring the possibilities that await you at Developers Paula and Neil Van Hoogen retired to the area 19 years ago Falling Waters.

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4seniors, for You BUSINESS

by Luke Osteen

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4Seniors’ services include an initial f you or an elderly loved one have ever tried to navigate the maze that’s the complimentary home assessment, including medication administration, American Health Care System, you’ve wished for an advocate, a partner to home safety, and the ability to perform activities of daily living, social issues and explain things. support systems. There are regular home The terminology is confusing, the process is often impersonal and critical visits to assess chronic medical problems, monitoring clients at high risk for heart decisions are often impossible to weigh.

That’s why 4Seniors Medical Liaison attack and stroke, and recommendation Services is such a vital local resource. of cost-effective medications that decrease the client’s financial burden and Nurse Practitioner Patricia Smith earned her Master’s of Science in on-call services.

Clients can expect transportation to Nursing at Emory University. A nurse primary and specialist medical offices, practitioner provides medical care help understanding their medical bills similar to physicians and physician with Medicare and Supplemental assistants.

Tricia brings 15 years’ Patricia Smith Insurance, and education about diet experience in Family Medicine and and weight control, salt restriction Internal Medicine to her business, which provides concierge healthcare service that treats her clients with and education.

“I serve as a healthcare advocate for my clients,” Patricia says. “There compassion and respect.

“Healthcare can be intimidating – the language can be obscure, the are no substitutes for deeply personalized attention.”

For information about 4Seniors’ exclusive concierge service, call (828) decisions difficult, the possibilities confounding,” she says. “Patients 482-1821 or email 4seniors.hc@gmail.com. deserve an advocate, a guide through the labyrinth of treatments.”

Iconic Cashiers Style

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by Jenny King

ynn Monday, of Monday’s House of Design, has brought to the plateau the sophistication and artistry in design for which she has become known.

Having grown up in the Metro D.C. area, she was always surrounded by a rich array of cultural diversity. After studying Fine Arts at Virginia Intermont College, she married Wayne Monday, and together they moved to Europe where she nourished her passion for castles and country estates. During that time, Monday studied the varied design styles and brought home with her continent-spanning ideas. Her later experiences as a display and fashion director for department stores broadened her horizons even further and she began working for clients from New York to Florida.

Lynn Monday brings a lifetime of Having moved her business to Cashiers 28 training and a designer’s keen years ago, she has become known as the person sensibilities to her who created the iconic Cashiers Style -- blending Monday’s House of Design. the edgy with the mellow and the new with the well-loved. Her clients praise her vision for keeping the palette of each room fresh while highlighting their own rare art collections, heirloom rugs, and precious

antiques. She was instrumental in the creation of the Cashiers Designer Showhouse 18 years ago and recently redesigned the lobby of the classic High Hampton Inn. Many of the homes in this area are sophisticated enough for formal entertaining but are also easygoing and family-friendly. This requires a designer who has the eye, the talent, the experience, and the passion to bring the look together in one cohesive environment.

Monday is just such a person. She is the author of “Southern Mountain Living” and is currently working on another book entitled “The Designer’s Eye.” Her showroom is located at 334-A, Highway 64 East in Cashiers. There you’ll find both her creative haven and a retail space for some of the pieces she loves, like the antler chandeliers designed by her nephew, Chad Collins. She also has copies of her book available as well as other reference books to give you inspiration.

Visit her website at MondaysHouseofDesign. com. She may be reached by phone at (828) 7432094 and by email at MondaysHouse@gmail.com.

thelaurelmagazine.com | July 2015 | 181

BUSINESS

A Place of Grace

Kedra McCall, Stephanie McCall and Maddie Lloyd

by Jenny King

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The Molly Grace shines with the love and understanding of the McCall women – Stephanie and her daughters Marlee and Kedra Grace.

This unique gift store is a wonderful reflection of their spirit.

ife is about relationships — with friends, family, co-workers, even those whom we encounter only briefly. It’s what makes our lives unique.

The Molly Grace in Highlands is a store that celebrates relationships.

Owner Stephanie McCall is quick to point out that she created this space with her two daughters, Marlee and Kedra Grace. The store’s name pays homage to her daughters as well as her beloved mother Marlene, known as Molly, who is present in spirit.

The girls offer more than simple support. Marlee, who recently graduated with a degree in architecture, has designed several of the kitchen islands that are on display and Kedra does quite a bit of the buying. They believe in making a difference and are passionate about giving back.

“My community is amazing. They give to me so I want to give back,” McCall says.

On June 10 (her mother’s birthday), she donated 10 percent of sales to the Hospice House Foundation of Western North Carolina.

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She supports local artists like Stephen Owens from Highlands, whose woodworking talents are prominently displayed around the shop.

Painter Pam Patillo from Franklin has several striking canvases at The Molly Grace; and a bevy of other local artisans are represented. You’ll find copper lamps by Shaun Mackey and handmade quilts by Highlands’ own Liz View.

Stephanie’s goal is to make her store the first place you stop for that special gift. Her tastes run from the traditional to the whimsical with something available for every budget. Choices range from handstitched Canoe leather bags from Blue Ridge, Georgia, and trays made from old wine barrels to journals and jewelry. Don’t miss the magnet boards she offers. These can be personalized for a wedding, a baby’s room, or your own kitchen. The Molly Grace is located across from Town Hall at the corner of Oak Street and North Fourth Streets. You can count on her to be open year-round, so don’t let that special occasion slip by without having Stephanie show you around. Give them a call at (828) 526-8390.

A Pharmacy That Cares BUSINESS

M

by Mary Jane McCall

seemed like fate. ark and Brandy Letson are the new owners of the Much about the pharmacy remains the same. You’ll still be Cashiers Valley Pharmacy, greeted with a warm welcome and they are here to assist you with when you go into the store. You will all your pharmacy needs. still be able to find the necessities Brandy believes that it’s important to get to know your you need, but you will also find more. They are remodeling their customers personally so you’ll have space so they have a private an accurate idea of how best to help manage their care. consultation space and a private space in which to give vaccinations.

Her journey to becoming a They are expanding their wound pharmacist is a uniquely personal care. You will also find more gift one. She was working as a Pharmacist items and children’s toys.

Technician when a high school friend’s father became seriously ill A service they are excited to provide is medication therapy with cancer. During his illness, she management. This is a one- on-one was a part of the team that helped For new owners Mark and Brandy Letson, Cashiers Pharmacy consultation in which you will be to manage his medications. At will remain the source of wise, compassionate service able to go over all your medications that moment she realized that by to the community. and supplements. Having your becoming a pharmacist she could (L to R) Jacob Nelson, Brandie Letson, Kat Alligood, records centralized in one spot is impact lives on a daily basis.

Ceci Lettson and Mark Letson helpful when you or your physician She has worked in a CVS pharmacy and as a clinical pharmacist in a long-term care facility. In 2013 she and have questions. This is a particularly important service for Medicare Mark began investigating the idea of purchasing a pharmacy. Nothing patients and the cost is covered by Medicare.

Cashiers Valley Pharmacy is located in Ingles Plaza. Store hours are seemed like the right fit so they put the idea on the back burner for a bit. Mark had been commuting to Cashiers to work for several years 8:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. Monday through Friday and 9:00 A.M. to 2:00 so when they got the chance to purchase Cashiers Valley Pharmacy, it P.M. on Saturday.

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Accommodations Chandler Inn www.thechandlerinn.com Country Club Properties www.ccphighlandsnc.com Fire Mountain Inn & Cabins www.firemt.com Landmark Vacation Rentals www.landmarkvacations.com Laurelwood Inn www.laurelwoodinncashiers.com Old Edwards Inn www.oldedwardsinn.com Silver Creek Real Estate Group www.ncliving.com Whiteside Cove Cottages

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Acupuncture Cashiers Chiropractic & Acupuncture Center for Acupuncture Kim Bonsteel

www.cashierschiropractic.com

Page 147

www.acupuncturehighlands.com

Page 55

Antiques & Home Furnishings Bound’s Cave www.boundscave.com The Brier Patch Cabin Couture www.cabincouturehighlands.com Dovetail Antiques Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com Fletcher and Lee Into the Woods Mantiques www.mantiquesnc.com Michael Weaver Midnight Farms www.midnightfarms.com MIrror Lake Antiques & Jewelry www.mirrorlakeantiques.com Museum of American Cut & Engraved Glass Peak Experience www.peakexp.com Rusticks www.rusticks.com Scudder’s www.scuddersgallery.com The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com Summer Place Antiques www.summerplaceantiques.com Vivianne Metzger Antique www.vmantiques.com Watauga Creek www.wataugacreek.com

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Appliances Macon Appliance Mart Mountainworks Design Platt Architecture

www.maconappliance.co Architects/Designers www.mtnworks.com www.plattarchitecture.com

Art Galleries/Artists Annell Metzger, Portrait Artist www.annell.com Around Back at Rocky’s Place www.aroundbackatrockysplace.com The Bascom www.thebascom.org Blue Valley Gallery The Brier Patch Cabin Couture www.cabincouturehighlands.com Calderone Fine Art Gallery www.calderonegallery.com GG’s Consignments, Etc.* www.ggsconsignment.com Gracewear Collection www.gracewearcollection.com Dovetail Antiques Highlands Fine Art www.highlandsfineartandestatejewelry.com 252 | July 2015 | thelaurelmagazine.com

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Into the Woods Jenny Mixon www.jennymixonart.com Matt Tommey www.matttommey.com Midnight Farms www.midnightfarms.com Mill Creek Gallery & Framing www.cystrainphotos.com Mountain Mist Gallery www.mountainmistgallery.com Museum of American Cut & Engraved Glass Nora & Co. Oakleaf Flower & Garden www.oakleafhighlands.com Peak Experience www.peakexp.com Robert Tino Art Gallery www..roberttinogallery.com Scudder’s www.scuddersgallery.com Smitten The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com TJ B Gallery www.tjbmens.com Automotive Services Mountain Motorwerks Bars Satulah Mountain Brewing Company www.satulahmountainbrewing.com The Ugly Dog www.thedogpub.com Bedding/Linens/Comforters Blue Ridge Bedding www.blueridgebedding.com Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com High Cotton www.highcottonluxurylinens.com Into the Woods Lenz Gifts The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com Bird Supplies Bird Barn and Gift Emporium Books The Book Nook The Corner Store Gracewear Collection www.gracewearcollection.com The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com Brewing Companies Satulah Mountain Brewing Company www.satulahmountainbrewing.com Builders Arrowood Construction www.arrowoodconstruction.com Chinquapin Builders www.chinquapinbuilders.com Little Mountain Painting & Remodeling Lupoli Construction www.lupoliconstruction.com Srebalus Construction Co. Warth Construction www.warthconstruction.com Builders Supplies Jennings Builders Supply & Hardware Zoller Hardware www.zollerhardware.com

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Business Supplies The Business Spot www.biz-spot.net Cashiers Printing

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Catering Bake My Day Fressers Courtyard Cafe & Catering The Kitchen www.thekitchenofhighlands.com Rosewood Market www.rosewoogourmet.com

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Chambers of Commerce Highlands Chamber of Commerce Cashiers Chamber of Commerce

www.highlandschamber.org

Page 38

www.cashiersareachamber.com

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Chiropractic Services Cashiers Chiropractic & Acupuncture

www.cashierschiropractic.com

Clothing & Accessories A Jones Company Acorns Alyxandra’s Annawear Bags on Main Bear Mountain Outfitters Bee Bags and Such Bella Cotn C. Orrico www.corrico.com Cabin Casuals www.cabincasualshighlands.com The Corner Store Ellen’s Elevation The Exchange Gracewear Collection www.gracewearcollection.com Highland Hiker www.highlandhiker.com The Look Boutique - Cashiers www.thelookcashiers.boutiquewindow.com Martha Anne’s Midnight Farms www.midnightfarms.com Molly Grace Nancy’s Fancys Narcissus www.narcissusbyguiliana.com Nora & Co. Peak Experience www.peakexp.com

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Clothing Consignment The Blue Elephant Victoria’s Closet www.victoriasclosetnc.com

Page 93 Page 174

Collegiate Sidelines Apparel & Accessories

Page 147

Cigars Cashiers Emporium Cleaning/Housekeeping Services Rebecka’s Home Cleaning Service www.rbkcleaning.com Cloth/Upholstery Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com Into the Woods The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com

Robin’s Nest Sashay Around www.sashayaround.net Southern Way Sidelines Apparel & Accessories Smore’s Kids Klothes Spoiled Rotten www.spoiledrotten2.com TJ Bailey for Men www.tjbmens.com VC for Men www.victoriasclosetnc.com Victoria’s Closet www.victoriasclosetnc.com Victoria’s Sportswear www.victoriasclosetnc.com Wit’s End

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Chattooga Ridge Cullasaja Club Falling Waters Highlands Cove Realty Highlands Falls Country Club Preserve at Rock Creek Silver Creek Real Estate Group Trillium

Page 3

Communities www.oldcashiersrealty.com www.cullasajaclub.org www.highlandsnchomesites.com www.highlandsncluxuryhome.com ww.clubhfcc.com www.preserveatrockcreeknc.com www.ncliving.com www.trilliumnc.com

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Condiments Cashiers Trading Post Dusty’s The Hen House

Page 153 Page 110 Page 3 Cosmetic Surgery

Center for Plastic Surgery Robert T. Buchanan, M.D.

www.plasticsurgerytoday.com

Crafts The Bascom www.thebascom.org Highlands Marketplace Molly Grace Peak Experience www.peakexp.com Custom Cabinetry/Countertops Black Rock Granite & Marble www.blackrockgraniteandmarble.com Keystone Kitchen & Bath www.keystonekb.com Nantahala Flooring www.nantahalaflooring.com The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com

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Dutchman’s Designs Midnight Farms The Summer House

Custom Furniture www.dutchmansdesigns.com www.midnightfarms.com www.summerhousehighlands.com

Page 87 Page 19 Page 119

Dr. Joe Wilbanks

Dentists www.wilbankssmilecenter.com

Page 68

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Dermatology Highlands Dermatology www.highlandsdermatology.com Dog Boarding Loma Linda Farm www.lomalindafarm.com Doors/Windows Highlands Doors and Windows www.highlandsdoorsandwindows.com Education Rabun Gap Nacoochee School www.rabungap.org Electrical/Electric Zoller Hardware www.zollerhardware.com Events The Bascom www.thebascom.org Betsy Paul Art Raffle Big Ol’ Mountain Country Breakfast Cashiers Benefit Antique Show Cashiers Historical Society Cashiers Designer Showhouse™ www.cashiershistoricalsociety.org Brevard Music Center www.brevardmusic.org Dovecote Garden Talk Salon http://dargan.com/dovecote-events/ Friends of the Albert CarltonCashiers Community Library www.cashiersfriends.com Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival www.h-cmusicfestival.org Highlands-Cashiers Players highlandscashiersplayers.org Highlands Marketplace GCAMA www.visitcashiersvalley.com Highlands Playhouse www.highlandsplayhouse.org Laurel Garden Club Kitchen Tour www.laurelgardenclubhighlands.com Lunch for Literacy - Cashiers Rabun County Music Festival www.rabunmusicfestival.com Smitten Summer Colors Fine Art Show The Village Green www.villagegreencashiersnc.com WCU Controlled Chaos Film Festival & Benefit BCCFF.wcu.edu

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Flooring Chadbury Court Designers Market www.thedesignersmarket.com Highlands Decorating Center Nantahala Flooring www.nantahalaflooring.com

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Floral Design /Florists Fiddlehead Designs Oakleaf Flower & Garden www.oakleafhighlands.com

Pages 59, 60

Mill Creek Gallery & Framing

Framing www.cystrainphotos.com

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Page 67 Page 145

The Brier Patch Cabin Couture www.cabincouturehighlands.com Carolina Rustic Furniture www.carolinarusticfurniture.com Dovetail Antiques Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com Eller and Owens Furniture www.ellerandowensfurniture.com Into the Woods Midnight Farms www.midnightfarms.com Molly Grace Nearly New Oakleaf Flower & Garden www.oakleafhighlands.com Reeves Furniture & Gifts www.reeveshomefurnishings.com Rusticks www.rusticks.com The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com Summer Place Antiques www.summerplaceantiques.com Vivianne Metzger Antiques www.vmantiques.com Watauga Creek www.wataugacreek.com Furniture Consignments The Bear’s Den The Blue Elephant Consignment Market www.consignmentmarketcashiersnc.com GG’s Consignments, Etc.* www.ggsconsignment.com LOTSA Consignment Nearly New Garden Accessories Bird Barn and Gift Emporium Garden/Landscaping Supplies Chattooga Gardens www.chattoogagardens.com Country Road Farms www.countryroadfarms.com Highlands Lawn & Garden www.highlandslawnandgarden.com Scaly Mountain Nursery & Landscaping Zoller Hardware www.zollerhardware.com

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Gift Shops A Jones Company Around Back at Rocky’s Place www.aroundbackatrockysplace.com The Bear’s Den Bird Barn and Gift Emporium The Brier Patch Cashiers Trading Post Dovetail Antiques The Dry Sink www.thedrysink.com Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com Ellen’s Fiddlehead Designs Gracewear Collection www.gracewearcollection.com The Look Boutique - Cashiers www.thelookcashiers.boutiquewindow.com Molly Grace Peak Experience www.peakexp.com

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Stone Lantern The Summer House Zoller Hardware

www.stonelantern-highlands.com www.summerhousehighlands.com www.zollerhardware.com

Golf Sky Valley Country Club www.skyvalleycountryclub.com Golf Tours Tom Chillemi www.tomsgolftours.com Gourmet Foods Cashiers Trading Post Dusty’s The Hen House Grading/Excavating Larry Rogers Construction Grocery Stores Dusty’s Mountain Fresh Grocery www.mountainfreshgrocery.com

Page 7 Page 119 Page 30 Page 23 Page 115 Page 153 Page 110 Page 3 Page 110 Page 110 Page 107

Groomers Fancy Paws Woofgang Bakery

Page 74 Page 157 Gutter Services

D.P. Gutters

Pages 47, 153, 171 Hair Salons

Creative Concepts French Twist www.vagaro.com/frenchtwist Head Innovations Health Food Supplies Nature’s Vitamins Heating and Air Holley Heating & Air Conditioning www.holleyheating.com Home Accessories A Jones Company Bird Barn and Gift Emporium Bohemia Cabin Couture www.cabincouturehighlands.com Carolina Rustic Furniture www.carolinarusticfurniture.com Cashiers Emporium Consignment Market www.consignmentmarketcashiersnc.com Dovetail Antiques Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com Eller and Owens Furniture www.ellerandowensfurniture.com GG’s Consignments, Etc.* www.ggsconsignment.com Into the Woods LOTSA Consignment Mantiques www.mantiquesnc.com Matt Tommey www.matttommey.com Midnight Farms www.midnightfarms.com Oakleaf Flower & Garden www.oakleafhighlands.com Peak Experience www.peakexp.com

Page 152 Page 60 Page 152 Page 74 Page 177 Pages 39, 96 Page 9 Page 144 Page 140 Page 169 Page 64 Page 174 Page 25 Page 87 Page 99 Page 174 Page 93 Page 175 Page 124 Page 145 Page 19 Page 67 Pages 51, 98

Robin’s Nest Stone Lantern www.stonelantern-highlands.com The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com Vivianne Metzger Antiques www.vmantiques.com Watauga Creek www.wataugacreek.com Hospice Care Four Seasons www.wncvolunteer.com Interior Design & Home Furnishings The Brier Patch Bound’s Cave www.boundscave.com Carolina Rustic Furniture www.carolinarusticfurniture.com Dovetail Antiques Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com Into the Woods Midnight Farms www.midnightfarms.com Mondays House of Design mondayshouseofdesign.com Raffa Design Associates www.raffadesignassociates.com Rusticks www.rusticks.com The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com Vivianne Metzger Antiques www.vmantiques.com Zoller Hardware www.zollerhardware.com Northland Cable

Internet Services www.getnorthland.com Investment Planning

Edward Jones Investments www.edwardjones.com Wells Fargo Advisors

Page 167 Page 7 Page 119 Page 43 Page 166 Page 97 Page 98 Page 27 Page 169 Page 25 Page 87 Page 93 Page 19 Page 187 Page 21 Page 43 Page 119 Page 43 Page 30 Pages 37, 165

Page 49 Page 144

Jewelry - Fashion A Jones Company Cabin Couture www.cabincouturehighlands.com Dovetail Antiques Ellen’s Fletcher and Lee Gracewear Collection www.gracewearcollection.com Highlands Fine Art www.highlandsfineartandestatejewelry.com The Look Boutique - Cashiers www.thelookcashiers.com Midnight Farms www.midnightfarms.com Molly Grace Mountain Mist Gallery www.mountainmistgallery.com Narcissus www.narcissusbyguiliana.com Peak Experience www.peakexp.com Sidelines Apparel & Accessories Jewelry - Fine Highlands Gem Shop www.highlandsgemshop.com Michael Weaver MIrror Lake Antiques & Jewelry www.mirrorlakeantiques.com Scudder’s www.scuddersgallery.com Stone Lantern www.stonelantern-highlands.com TA Anderson Kitchen Accessories Bird Barn and Gift Emporium

Pages 39, 96 Page 140 Page 25 Page 64 Page 30 Page 151 Page 15 Page 77 Page 19 Page 9 Page 79 Page 63 Pages 51, 98 Page 3 Page 95 Page 130 Page 52 Page 186 Page 7 Page 81 Page 9

thelaurelmagazine.com | July 2015 | 255

Cashiers Emporium The Dry Sink www.thedrysink.com Molly Grace Zoller Hardware www.zollerhardware.com

Page 64 Page 166 Page 9 Page 30

Kitchen, Bath and Closet Design Black Rock Granite & Marble www.blackrockgraniteandmarble.com Highlands Decorating Center The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com

Pages 47, 152 Page 8 Page 119

Landscapers Dargan Landscape Architects www.dargan.com Four Seasons Landscaping www.fourseasonlandscape-highlands.com Ross Landscape Architecture, PLLC www.rosslandarch.com XStream Ponds www.xstreamponds.com

Page 31 Page 183 Page 33 Page 26

Lighting Carolina Rustic Furniture www.carolinarusticfurniture.com Designers Market www.thedesignersmarket.com Dovetail Antiques Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com Into the Woods Mantiques www.mantiquesnc.com Midnight Farms www.midnightfarms.com Molly Grace The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com Vivianne Metzger Antiques www.vmantiques.com

Page 169 Page 162 Page 25 Page 87 Page 93 Page 124 Page 19 Page 9 Page 119 Page 43

Luggage Bags on Main Cashiers Emporium

Page 33 Page 64 Massage

Canyon Spa at Lonesome Valley www.lonesomevalley.com Cashiers Chiropractic & Acupuncture www.cashierschiropractic.com Tranquility Cove Massage

Page 49

Museum of American Cut & Engraved Glass Blue Ridge Music

Music Stores www.blueridgemusicacademy.com

256 | July 2015 | thelaurelmagazine.com

The Business Spot Zoller Hardware

www.biz-spot.net www.zollerhardware.com

Pages 48

Page 40 Page 97

Page 152 Page 30

Outdoor Adventures Highlands Aerial Park

www.highlandscanopytour.com

Page 97

Outdoor Furniture Carolina Rustic Furniture The Summer House

www.carolinarusticfurniture.com www.summerhousehighlands.com

Page 169 Page 119

Painting D.P. Painting Little Mountain Painting & Remodeling

Pages 47, 153, 171 Page 153 Pet Care/Supplies

Fancy Paws Paws on the Mountain Woofgang Bakery Zoller Hardware www.zollerhardware.com

Page 74 Page 159 Page 157 Page 30

Pharmacies Cashiers Valley Pharmacy Highlands Pharmacy

Page 117 Page 150 Photography

Charles Johnson Fine Photography www.charlesjohnsonfineart.com Mill Creek Gallery & Framing www.cystrainphotos.com Valentine Photo Studio www.valentinesphotostudio.com

Page 90 Page 145 Page 139

Picnic Supplies

Chattooga Gardens www.chattoogagardens.com Country Road Farms www.countryroadfarms.com Highlands Lawn & Garden www.highlandslawnandgarden.com Scaly Mountain Nursery & Landscaping

Page 95

www.highlandsplayhouse.org Museums

Office Supplies

Page 171 Page 64 Page 87 Page 119

Movies Highlands Playhouse

Page 152

A Jones Company

Medical Services 4Seniors, LLC, Medical Liaison Services

Creative Concepts

Page 147 Page 153

Mattresses Blue Ridge Bedding www.blueridgebedding.com Cashiers Emporium Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com

Nail Care

Pages 39, 96 Plants/Nurseries Page 27 Page 6 Page 150 Page 153

Plumbing/Fixtures Zoller Hardware

www.zollerhardware.com

Page 30

Porch and Patio Carolina Rustic Furniture Consignment Market Midnight Farms The Summer House

www.carolinarusticfurniture.com www.consignmentmarketcashiersnc.com www.midnightfarms.com www.summerhousehighlands.com

Pottery Around Back at Rocky’s Place www.aroundbackatrockysplace.com Bird Barn and Gift Emporium

Page 169 Page 174 Page 19 Page 119 Page 96 Page 9

Cashiers Emporium Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com Midnight Farms www.midnightfarms.com Mountain Mist Gallery www.mountainmistgallery.com Smitten The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com

Page 64 Page 87 Page 19 Page 79 Page 90 Page 119

Printing Companies The Business Spot www.biz-spot.net Cashiers Printing

Page 152 Page 148

Produce Cashiers Trading Post Cashiers Farmers Market www.cashiersfarmersmarket.com

Page 153 Page 105

Pubs The Ugly Dog

www.thedogpub.com

Page 102

Radio Stations WHLC FM 104.5

www.whlc.com

Page 23

Real Estate Sales Anchor All Realty www.lakehartwell4u.com Betsy Paul www.betsypaulproperties.com Blair Realty www.blair-realty.com Chattooga Ridge www.oldcashiersrealty.com Country Club Properties www.ccphighlandsnc.com Cullasaja Club www.cullasajaclub.org John Cleaveland Realty www.jcrealty.com Highlands Cove Realty www.highlandsncluxuryhome.com Highlands Falls Country Club ww.clubhfcc.com Highlands Mountain Realty Highlands, NC Realty www.highlandsnc.info Landmark Realty Group www.landmarkrg.com Meadows Mountain Realty www.meadowsmtnrealty.com Mckee Properties - Beth Townsend www.mckeeproperties.com Nadine Paradise www.nadineparadise.com Old Cashiers Realty, inc. www.oldcashiersrealty.com Pat Allen Realty Group www.patallenrealtygroup.com Preserve at Rock Creek www.preserveatrockcreeknc.com Sapphire Valley Real Estate www.sapphirevalleyrealestate.com Silver Creek Real Estate Group www.ncliving.com Trillium www.trilliumnc.com White Oak Realty www.whiteoakrg.com

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Restaurants Highlands-Cashiers Directory Bake My Day Bella’s Cashiers Farmers Market www.cashiersfarmersmarket.com The Dog House www.theuglydogpub.com Dusty’s Fressers Courtyard Cafe & Catering The Kitchen www.thekitchenofhighlands.com

Page 111 Page 109 Pages 102, 135 Page 105 Page 102 Page 110 Page 101 Page 101

Lakeside Restaurant www.lakesiderestaurant.info The Log Cabin www.thelogcabinhighlands.com Meritage Bistro www.meritagehighlands.com Mountain Fresh Grocery www.mountainfreshgrocery.com OEI Rooftop Terrace www.oldedwardsinn.com On the Verandah www.ontheverandah.com The Orchard Restaurant www.theorchardcashiers.com Paoletti’s www.paolettis.com Rosewood Market www.rosewoogourmet.com The Ugly Dog Pub www.theuglydogpub.com Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro www.wolfgangs.net The Zookeeper Bistro

Page 110 Page 103 Page 106 Page 107 Page 110 Page 107 Page 105 Page 103 Page 138 Page 102 Page 5 Page 74

Rugs Bound’s Cave www.boundscave.com Carolina Rustic Furniture www.carolinarusticfurniture.com Eller and Owens Furniture www.ellerandowensfurniture.com The Hen House Into the Woods Midnight Farms www.midnightfarms.com Molly Grace Shiraz Oriental Rug Gallery www.shirazruggalleries.com The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com

Page 27 Page 169 Page 99 Page 3 Page 93 Page 19 Page 9 Page 29 Page 119

Sculptural Baskets Matt Tommey

www.matttommey.com

Page 145

Skin Care Pinnacle Anti Aging

Page 20 Shipping Services

The Business Spot www.biz-spot.net Stork’s Wrap, Pack & Ship

Page 152 Page 9

Shoes Alyxandra’s Bear Mountain Outfitters Gracewear Collection www.gracewearcollection.com Highland Hiker www.highlandhiker.com Martha Anne’s TJ Bailey for Men www.tjbmens.com

Page 35 Page 161 Page 151 Pages 56, 57 Page 40 Page 61

Socks Peak Experience www.peakexp.com Bird Barn and Gift Emporium

Pages 51, 98 Page 9

Spas Canyon Spa at Lonesome Valley French Twist

www.lonesomevalley.com www.vagaro.com/frenchtwist

Page 49 Page 60

Specialty Foods Dusty’s The Hen House

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Sportman Collectibles Cashiers Trading Post Mantiques www.mantiquesnc.com

Vacation Rentals Page 153 Page 124

Storage Montes Unique Storage Sheds and Bins Sun Control Shades/Blinds Into the Woods Tables Dutchman’s Designs www.dutchmansdesigns.com Into the Woods Midnight Farms www.midnightfarms.com Vivianne Metzger Antique www.vmantiques.com Highlands-Cashiers Players Highlands Playhouse WCU Controlled Chaos Film Festival & Benefit WellStrung

Theatre/Entertainment highlandscashiersplayers.org www.highlandsplayhouse.org BCCFF.wcu.edu www.wellstrunghighlandsband.com

Page 11 Page 93

Cruise Planners

258 | July 2015 | thelaurelmagazine.com

Page 74 Page 130 Page 81

www.thevineyardat37highholly.com

Page 135

Window Treatments Designers Market www.thedesignersmarket.com Highlands Decorating Center Into the Woods Reeves Home Furnishings www.reevesblindsand shades.com The Summer House www.summerhousehighlands.com

Page 162 Page 8 Page 93 Page 177 Page 119

Page 67

Wine & Accessories Dusty’s Mountain Fresh Grocery www.mountainfreshgrocery.com Zoller Hardware www.zollerhardware.com

Page 110 Page 107 Page 30

Page 149

Zipline Adventures www.highlandscanopytour.com

Page 97

Page 95 Page 48 Page 95 Page 165

Transportation Travel www.needfortravel.com

Page 127

Page 135 Page 139

Page 64

Highlands Transportation Company

www.landmarkvacations.com Vitamins/Food Supplements Nature’s Vitamins Watches Michael Weaver TA Anderson Wedding Services www.idoeventsatlanta.com www.valentinesphotostudio.com

Page 87 Page 93 Page 19 Page 43

Toys The Corner Store

Landmark Vacation Rentals

I Do Events Valentine Photo Studio The Vineyard at 37 High Holly

Highlands Aerial Park

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