November 2025 | Laurel Magazine

L aURe L

The Heart of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau

Draw from the Dirt

Rusticks After Thanksgiving Sale

Nov. 28 and 29

Cover Artist, Lauren Whitley

Publisher’s Note

Welcome to our November 2025 Issue!

We hope you’ll discern a deep, abiding sense of Gratitude that we’ve embedded throughout these pages – indeed, in every edition we’ve published over the last 23 years.

That sentiment is built upon, well, there’s no other word for it – a love for our readers and advertisers and the extraordinary calendar of events large and small that animate our lives and, always, the remarkably uncommon people we encounter every day.

Please know that we treasure you, and you’ll be included in our Thanksgiving Prayers.

With appreciation, Janet and Marjorie

VOLUME TWENTY-THREE, ISSUE TEN

JANET CUMMINGS Managing Partner janet@thelaurelmagazine.com

OSTEEN Editor / Writer luke@thelaurelmagazine.com

MARLENE OSTEEN Writer marlene.osteen@gmail.com

MARJORIE N. DEAL Managing Partner marjorie@thelaurelmagazine.com

RHODES Writer dmrhodes847@gmail.com

SARAH FIELDING Account Manager sarah@thelaurelmagazine.com

MUNGER Art Director mungerclan5@aol.com

JANE MCCALL Writer mjmccall777@gmail.com

EMILY MUNGER Account Manager emily@thelaurelmagazine.com

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

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STEVE HUNTER Distribution

Contributing Writers: Stuart Ferguson, William McReynolds, Debbie Hall, and Deena Bouknight

Guest Writers: Jeanne Piazza, Sue Blair, David Stroud, Lance Hardin, Billy Love, Johanna Fein, Susan Gregory, Josh Bryson, Todd Holder, Anna Norton, Shelby Ward, Linda Kirkman, Danielle Hernandez, Dr. Kristin Lander, and Courtney Scarborough

Contributing Photographers: Susan Renfro, Mary Gillan Renfro, Greg Clarkson, Charles Johnson, Peter Ray, Terry Barnes, Ryan Karcher, and Colleen Kerrigan.

Copyright © 2025 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.

MICHELLE

LUKE

DONNA

MARY

WHAT TO DO

Pages 14-57

Photo by Susan Renfro

November’s Pause to Remember

As the golden hues of autumn fade and November’s chill settles in, our thoughts often drift toward the warmth of memory. This is the month when reflection feels most natural—when quiet moments recall family gatherings, the scent of harvest meals, and the rhythm of simpler days.

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

The Shepherd’s Calendar - November John

Clare

The landscape sleeps in mist from morn till noon; And, if the sun looks through, ‘tis with a face Beamless and pale and round, as if the moon, When done the journey of her nightly race, Had found him sleeping, and supplied his place. For days the shepherds in the fields may be,

Nor mark a patch of sky - blindfold they trace, The plains, that seem without a bush or tree, Whistling aloud by guess, to flocks they cannot see.

The owlet leaves her hiding-place at noon, And flaps her grey wings in the doubling light; The hoarse jay screams to see her out so soon, And small birds chirp and startle with affright; Much doth it scare the superstitious wight, Who dreams of sorry luck, and sore dismay; While cowboys think the day a dream of night, And oft grow fearful on their lonely way, Fancying that ghosts may wake, and leave their graves by day.

Thus wears the month along, in checker’d moods, Sunshine and shadows, tempests loud, and calms;

One hour dies silent o’er the sleepy woods, The next wakes loud with unexpected storms; A dreary nakedness the field deformsYet many a rural sound, and rural sight, Lives in the village still about the farms, Where toil’s rude uproar hums from morn till night Noises, in which the ears of Industry delight.

At length the stir of rural labour’s still, And Industry her care awhile forgoes; When Winter comes in earnest to fulfil His yearly task, at bleak November’s close, And stops the plough, and hides the field in snows; When frost locks up the stream in chill delay, And mellows on the hedge the jetty sloes, For little birds - then Toil hath time for play, And nought but threshers’ flails awake the dreary day. Happy November traditions and memories. by

William McReynolds

Festival of Trees

Each Thanksgiving weekend, the Cashiers Festival of Trees lights up the Summit Center with festive décor, community spirit, and support for Summit Charter School.

Since 2021, the Cashiers Festival of Trees has turned Thanksgiving weekend into one of the Plateau’s most anticipated holiday traditions.

This year’s event takes place at the Summit Center on Friday, November 28, and Saturday, November 29, from 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., filling the space with glowing lights, rows of decorated trees, stacks of auction baskets, and a community gathered to support a cause that matters –Summit Charter School.

The festival is the school’s largest fundraiser, with a 2025 goal of $500,000. Summit Charter School is a tuition-free K–12 public charter school that receives less government funding than traditional schools, so private donations are essential. Festival funds support small classes, arts, outdoor education, and Summit’s innovative programs.

“Every dollar raised makes a tangible difference in the life of a student,” says co-chair Denice Dunn.

The impact extends well beyond the school. Local nonprofits that contribute a tree or basket receive 80 percent of the proceeds from their item, a boost for the more than two dozen small, local charities that have received funding,

“We’re not just raising money for Summit Charter School –we’re fueling other good work across the Plateau too,” adds

co-chair Celeste Pratt.

Wander the aisles and you’ll find 35 to 40 trees gleaming with both traditional and themed decorations, many paired with special “experiences,” all designed to surprise and delight.

Past prizes have included golf getaways for the weekend warrior, chef-prepared dinners for the gourmand, Lego master classes for families, and camping trips that turn Christmas into an adventure.

The baskets – 65 to 70 in all – overflow with treasures, ranging from cozy holiday treats to indulgent luxury packages, with price points from $25 to several thousand dollars. And thanks to online bidding, the reach of the festival extends well beyond those who walk through the doors, drawing participation from supporters near and far.

Returning this year is the Wreath Bar, stocked with fresh greenery from Bear Valley Farm in Glenville. Guests can assemble and decorate their own wreaths to take home, adding a personal touch to their holiday season. Volunteer designers are also on hand to create a wreath masterpiece for guests to take home.

Food trucks will be parked outside, turning the festival into a day-long outing with shopping, bidding, and lunch in one stop. Two sponsor events add extra sparkle to the weekend. On

Friday night, an After Dark party offers cocktails and bidding in a room aglow with illuminated trees. Food is generously prepared by The Club at High Hampton. On Saturday morning, families flock to a VIP Breakfast with Santa and Friends, a chance for children to enjoy a holiday meal and share their wish lists with Santa himself. This year’s breakfast is sponsored by Waffle House.

The festival runs on volunteer energy, with every Summit Charter School family and community members contributing time and effort. More than 1,000 people attend each year, and hundreds more bid online, extending the festival’s reach well beyond Cashiers. Each July, benefactors are honored at the Toast of Trees dinner, held this year at Canyon Kitchen. Leading the way is the presenting sponsor, Cashiers Valley Real Estate, returning for the second year and underscoring the commitment of local businesses to education on the Plateau.

In just a few years, the Festival of Trees has grown into a centerpiece of the holiday season – an event that blends generosity with creativity while drawing the community together.

As Denice Dunn puts it, “It’s a magical way to celebrate the holidays while investing in the future of our kids – and in the strength of our entire community.”

by Marlene Osteen

photos by Susan Renfro

Rachel and Christopher Dyer attend July’s Toast to the Trees gala

Sips and Sounds

From November 13–16, Highlands bursts with flavor and melody during its tenth annual Food & Wine Festival, where exceptional tastes and music converge across stunning settings.

Highlands Food & Wine returns November 13–16 for its 10th season, a long weekend where music, food, and drink converge in settings as varied as botanical gardens, barns, lodges, and the heart of downtown.

While the big street events draw the crowds, the festival’s special gatherings are where the personality of the Plateau really shines – moments that feel more like invitations than performances. This year, the calendar brims with opportunities to savor Highlands in unexpected ways, from a twilight garden stroll to a barn-raising party to a celebration where fire and smoke set the stage.

On Friday afternoon, November 14, Vines in the Pines unfolds at the Highlands Biological Station from 4:00 to 5:30 P.M. Guests take an unhurried walk through the Botanical Gardens, pausing along flat trails to sample natural and sustainable wines.

Each tasting station offers something distinct, but the real crescendo comes at the lakeside Teaching Pavilion, where the final pour is served as the sun lowers over the water. Tickets are $75 plus fees and are available through the festival’s website. It’s a tasting meant to slow your pace, let the wines breathe, and fold the natural setting into the flavor of the glass.

That same evening, Skyline Lodge hosts Her Voice, Her

Vintage from 4:30 to 6:00 P.M. Nikki Lane, whose voice carries equal measures of grit and velvet, performs in the outdoor pavilion while guests enjoy hors d’oeuvres paired with curated wines. It’s an intimate event, both in scale and in spirit, pairing song and sip in a way that feels like conversation. Tickets were $150 and quickly sold out, proof that the concept – highlighting female artistry alongside thoughtful vintages – struck a deep chord with festivalgoers.

Saturday night brings The Barn Ramble to Flat Mountain Farm from 7:00 to 9:30 P.M. For $65, guests trade the polished atmosphere of the larger tastings for something looser and more freewheeling. Nashville songwriter Sam Morrow takes the stage, blending outlaw grit with soul-driven swagger, while the farm’s barn fills with laughter, movement, and the clink of glasses. Light bites are provided by Little Secret, and drinks flow from taps and cocktail shakers, including spirits from Blade & Bow.

What sets the Barn Ramble apart is its mix of energy and intimacy – it’s part concert, part neighborhood gathering, the kind of evening where strangers become friends before the last note fades.

But if the festival has a spiritual core, it might just be Smoke Signals, staged Friday, November 14, from noon to 3:30 P.M. at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. Here the air is thick with

The Barn Ramble at Flat Mountain Farm: Saturday, Nov. 15

Smoke Signals: Friday, Nov. 14

woodsmoke, music, and anticipation. Chefs from across the region gather to show what fire can do, from briskets and ribs to oysters and vegetables kissed by flame.

Among them is Kyle Bryner of Blue Hound Barbecue in Dillard, the Season 6 winner of Food Network’s BBQ Brawl, whose Southern Appalachian barbecue marries Texas boldness with Carolina tang and mountain soul.

On stage, Paul McDonald and the Mourning Doves open with a set of raspy, roots-rich Americana, followed by Railroad Earth, a band that bends bluegrass into something expansive and improvisational. Tickets are $275 plus fees, available online, and worth every penny for the way food and music feed each other until you can’t tell which is leading and which is following.

Together, these events show the festival’s reach: a reflective walk in the gardens, an evening of voice and vintage, a barn alive with music and movement, and a smoky afternoon where barbecue and bluegrass share the pulpit. Highlands Food & Wine has always been about more than what’s in the glass or on the plate. It’s about the setting, the stories, and the way those elements come together to create something larger than themselves – a celebration of this mountain town and its singular ability to throw open its doors and make everyone feel at home.

For more information, visit highlandsfoodandwine.com

by Marlene Osteen

Nikki Lane at Her Voice, Her Vintage: Friday, Nov. 14

Fireside Moments

December in Highlands shines brighter for music lovers—Mike Kinnebrew’s beloved holiday concert returns to The Farm, welcoming Grammy-nominated guest Paul Moak for an intimate evening of heartfelt songs and festive spirit.

December in Highlands means many things, but for music lovers, it means Mike Kinnebrew is coming home to The Farm at Old Edwards. The singer-songwriter’s annual Fireside at The Farm concert returns Wednesday, December 17, this time with special guest Paul Moak, the Grammynominated producer and guitarist who’s played with Heart and appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.

For Kinnebrew, this show holds special significance. “I can’t think of an event on my calendar that is nearer and dearer to my heart,” he has shared about this annual performance that has become a cherished holiday tradition for both locals and visitors alike.

The Georgia-born singer-songwriter, whose lyrics are, “that relatable” and melodies, “that comfortable,” has found his perfect home at The Farm, where crackling fireplaces and wooden beams create an ideal backdrop for his

heartfelt storytelling.

Kinnebrew’s music resonates deeply with audiences because of his remarkable ability to find “the remarkable in the ordinary,” channeling everything from everyday moments like taking his kids to school to more vulnerable subjects like his personal struggles with anxiety and alcohol. His 2022 single “What’s Left of Me” exemplifies this honest approach – a song about second chances and his journey to sobriety at 45, proving that “it’s never too late” to change.

Moak brings impressive credentials to this intimate setting. The five-time Grammy nominee and ASCAP award winner has worked on more than 800 albums with artists ranging from Dolly Parton and Gwen Stefani to Blake Shelton, and recently performed with the legendary rock band Heart, adding an electric energy to this cozy holiday gathering. The evening will feature selections from Kinnebrew’s latest album “Call

it Life,” described as an exploration of, “the good and bad that make up our lives” – from the uplifting optimism of “Good Day” to the haunting depths of “Something Bad.” Of course, no Fireside at The Farm would be complete without beloved Christmas songs, including a special performance of “O Holy Night” by Kinnebrew’s wife, Lindsey, a talented singer, and medical doctor who joins him when her schedule permits.

The concert runs from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at The Farm at Old Edwards (336 Arnold Road), with tickets priced at $25 for Old Edwards Inn and Half-Mile Farm guests and $50 for the public. Guests can enjoy a cash bar and complimentary light bites in the venue’s festive atmosphere.

With limited seating available, early booking is recommended – visit oldedwardshospitality.com/orchardsessions.

by Marlene Osteen

Mike Kinnebrew

Plateau Libraries

November on the Plateau is a time for gratitude and gathering, with the Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library and Hudson Library offering creative workshops and community programs that celebrate connection and learning for all ages.

Joseph Bathanti

Alessandro Porco

November on the Plateau is a season of gratitude – time to gather around tables, count blessings, and enjoy the richness of community. The Hudson Library in Highlands and the Albert CarltonCashiers Library capture that spirit with programs that blend creativity, discovery, and connection.

At the Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library, the month opens with the return of Book Nook Workshops on November 6 at 1:00 P.M.

These intricate miniature scenes – tiny worlds tucked between books on your shelf – require patience, precision, and a willingness to get lost in detail that would make a watchmaker proud. Guided by Michael Novak, eight participants (reservations required) will meet each Friday through December 12, pausing only for Thanksgiving. Bring your own kit and prepare to build a diorama that’s as personal as it is enchanting.

Later in the month, artist Mia Loia continues her watercolor trilogy with a class on Tuesday, November 26 at 3:30 P.M. Word has spread quickly – seats are nearly gone, making this one of those rare “sign up now or miss out” library moments.

And on Friday, November 21 at 2:00 P.M., two distinguished guests, Joseph Bathanti and Alessandro Porco, present the newly released Anthology of Black Mountain College Poetry. More than a reading, it’s an exploration of the legacy of an experimental college that reshaped education and art just over the mountains.

With the Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center just a couple of mountains away, the program offers not only literary insight but also a direct connection to one of Western North Carolina’s most influential cultural landmarks.

The Hudson Library in Highlands pro -

vides its own steady rhythm of community touchpoints. Tech Time runs every Wednesday from 1:00 to 3:00 P.M., offering one-on-one help with devices. Thursdays bring Family Storytime at 10:40 A.M. for toddlers and preschoolers, followed by Kidzone at 3:30 P.M. for elementary-aged children ready for bigger projects. On Friday, November 21, at 11:00 A.M., neighbors can gather for Community Coffee with the Mayor, an easy way to share ideas over a warm cup. Both libraries close November 27–28 for Thanksgiving, but the month’s lineup itself feels like a celebration: creative workshops, thoughtful conversations, and programs that invite every age to take part. In a season built on gratitude, the Plateau’s libraries remind us that community is one of the greatest gifts we share.

by Marlene Osteen

Light Up The Park

On Saturday, November 29, Highlands kicks off the holiday season with Light Up the Park, filling KelseyHutchinson Founders Park with sparkling lights, festive music, and joyous community traditions.

Thanksgiving weekend may just be the most magical time of the year to be in Highlands. Our community gathers to celebrate the start of the holiday season with the much-loved Light Up the Park festivities on Saturday, November 29, from 6:00–8:00 P.M. at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park.

Each year, young and old eagerly await this cherished tradition, where the park is transformed into a sparkling winter wonderland. Thousands of glittering Christmas lights dance among the trees, Santa’s sleigh shines in the glow, and the ice-skating rink offers a picture-perfect backdrop for laughter and memories.

The evening is brimming with holiday cheer. Families and friends sip steaming cups of hot chocolate, nibble on Christmas cookies, and lift their voices together in timeless carols, joined by the City Carolers who will be on hand helping with the program and filling the entire evening with festive song.

A special guest will read ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas as excitement builds for the arrival of the guest of honor-Santa Claus himself.

Anticipation grows as Santa nears. Listen for a hearty HOHOHO as he arrives atop a fire truck. In a heartbeat, the jolly old elf joins the crowd, takes hold of the switch, and with a flick of his wrist, the park and Main Street come alive with lights.

Thousands of lights shimmer and sparkle across the park and through downtown, casting a radiant glow that will brighten the town throughout the holidays and into the New Year. It’s a scene so enchanting you’ll want to return again and again during the season to soak in its beauty during quieter moments.

The magic doesn’t end there. Be sure to stroll through downtown Highlands to admire the holiday window displays lovingly created by local merchants. Their creativity and festive spirit add

even more charm to the town. Naturally, this is also the perfect time to do a little holiday shopping. When you choose to shop local, you’re not just checking names off your gift list-you’re giving back to the community and bringing smiles to the people you love.

The Light Up the Park celebration is more than an event – it’s a memorymaking tradition, a chance to gather in joy and fellowship, and the perfect way to usher in the holiday season.

For more information on Light Up the Park and other holiday events, call the Highlands Welcome Center at (828) 526-2112 or visit their website at highlandschamber.org.

by Mary Jane McCall

A Meal with Meaning

The Church of the Incarnation’s Barbecue Lunch is back—serving up pulled pork, holiday cheer, and a whole lot of heart right after the December 6 parade.

Season’s greetings, all you hungry mountain parade watchers! Get ready for the Barbecue Lunch, under the direction of Church of the Incarnation’s parishioners.

It’s the best darn pork-in-a-box this side of anywhere. It’s not just a meal, it’s a parade ritual that fills rumbling tummies and charities in need.

The Barbecue Lunch is the church’s pulled pork, coleslaw, chips, cookie, and soda box-feast. These barbecue power meals cost a mere $15. Those five- and tendollar bills add up in a hurry. The total proceeds provide a special kind of soul food for many. Feel free to give more if you can. All Proceeds go to the Highlands Community Child Development Center and the International Friendship Center. Advanced lunch tickets are on sale at the church. If not sold out, and you need a ticket, you can buy one at the parade on December 6. Box Lunch will begin at the church immediately after the parade and will last until 2:00 P.M.

Twelve Days, One Spirit

Enjoy your meal in the Incarnation Fellowship Hall, seats/tables provided. If the weather is favorable, eat outside, or take your boxed deliciousness to the park. While munching and viewing, check out homemade jams, confections, savories, and jellies that will be on sale. Proceeds support non-profits.

Lunch-server volunteers donate their time and effort for the sake of improving lives, not only during holidays but all year long.

. It’s not just a meal, it’s a parade ritual that fills rumbling tummies and charities in need.

Be one yourself for next year’s event. For more information, contact the Church of the Incarnation at (828) 526-2968.

Caution: The Barbecue Lunch may cause extreme happiness!

by Donna Rhodes

From December 1–12, Cashiers comes alive with music, magic, and mountain cheer. The Twelve Days of Christmas celebration invites all to gather, sing, and share in the joy of the season—one heartfelt event

at a time.

As December tiptoes onto the Plateau, Cashiers once again unwraps one of its most beloved traditions — the Twelve Days of Christmas.

From December 1 through 12, our mountain town hums with anticipation as each day reveals a new musical delight, a cozy gathering place, or a joyful surprise that sparkles like frost on Fraser fir.

Hosted by the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce, this annual celebration promises a sleighful of holiday cheer.

Stay tuned for this year’s lineup of musical artists and host venues at cashiersareachamber.com.

Each event — whether held at a market, gallery, inn, or chapel — carries the same heartfelt message: community is the true spirit of the season.

This year, the chamber invites everyone — locals and visitors alike — to join the Christmas magic. You may find yourself tapping your foot to a bluegrass trio in a rustic barn, humming along to a jazz quartet in a candlelit café, or swaying to

a choir echoing through the mountains. Each day offers a chance to gather, celebrate, and remember what makes the holidays in Cashiers so special.

Bundle up, mark your calendar, and enjoy the sounds of the season. The Twelve Days of Christmas in Cashiers celebrates what we do best — gathering as a community to share music, tradition, and mountain cheer.

by Susan Sapienza Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce

Christmas Comes to Highlands

Experience the festive spirit of the season at the Highlands Christmas Parade on December 6, where Main Street fills with dazzling floats, lively marching bands, and the joyful arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Giddy-up, giddy-up, let’s go, let’s follow the snow (hopefully) to the Highlands Christmas Parade, marching down Main Street Highlands on December 6, at 10:00 A.M. Sponsored by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands NC, this parade embodies the Christmas spirit and is the perfect way to usher in the season.

Arrive early to claim a prime viewing spot. You won’t want to miss a moment of this larger-than-life Christmas parade. Our town may be small, but our parade rocks, rolls, and marches with the sights and sounds of the season.

Speaking of marching – what wonders can you expect to see?

As in years past, you will be amazed that for such a small town, we take our annual parade seriously. We do indeed bring out our best, finest, most creative, and most impressive for your entertainment.

With over 50 entries you can expect to see a bit of everythinghomemade floats lovingly crafted with hours of volunteer labor; animals of all kinds; vintage cars; motorcycles; bagpipers; the Highlands High School Homecoming court, cheerleaders and athletic teams; Smokey the Bear; veteran’s

groups; the crowd-pleasing well-rehearsed dancing darlings from the Mountain Garden Club; and so much more. It’ll be a morning to remember.

Of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus wouldn’t miss this event for all the candy canes at the North Pole, so they’ve marked their calendar to be on hand to the delight of young and old.

Ring in the season and warm your hearts with all that is good about small-town America, and join the fun. Don’t forget your camera. You’ll want to capture these memories.

by Mary Jane McCall

Scan to learn more.

Festival of Lights

Join the Highlands community on Sunday, December 14 at 5:30 P.M. in KelseyHutchinson Founders Park for the Lighting of the Menorah, marking the first night of Hanukkah and celebrating the festival of lights with song, dance, and community spirit.

Hanukkah is an eight-day winter festival of lights, celebrated to mark the triumph of light over darkness, and the Highlands Chamber of Commerce invites you to join your community in this tradition at the Lighting of the Menorah on Sunday, December 14th at 5:30 P.M. at the Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park.

One candle of the giant menorah will be lit on this first night of Hanukkah, and an additional candle each successive night, serving as a beacon of hope and a celebration of resilience. This will be done until the eighth night when the Menorah is fully illuminated.

The lighting of the menorah is tradition-

ally celebrated with song, dancing, blessings, and prayers of thanksgiving and faith, and is a wonderful opportunity for our community to gather and embrace the universal message of hope and the triumph of light over darkness. Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the second century BCE, when the Jewish people, led by the Maccabees, reclaimed their temple from the Seleucid rulers. According to tradition, they discovered only one small flask of purified oil to light the temple’s menorah – enough for a single day – yet the oil miraculously burned for eight nights. During Hanukkah families share

traditional foods such as latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts), both fried in oil to recall the miracle of the oil in the temple. Children may play dreidel, a spinning top game with Hebrew letters that stand for “a great miracle happened there.” Gifts are often exchanged, blending ancient customs with modern traditions that strengthen family bonds.

Join our Jewish neighbors on this reflective occasion and start your holiday season off on a hopeful and joyous note. by Mary Jane McCall photo by Susan Renfro

The Spirit of Cashiers

Nominate someone who makes Cashiers shine! The Chamber’s Spirit Awards honor those who uplift our community through service and heart.

Each year, the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce proudly recognizes those who embody the true Spirit of Our Community—the people and organizations whose leadership, volunteerism, and dedication make Cashiers such a remarkable place to live, work, and play.

Nominations are now open for the Spirit of Our Community Awards, and the Chamber invites residents, businesses, and nonprofits to help shine a light on those who make a difference every day. Whether it’s a friendly neighbor who always lends a hand, a business that gives back, or an organization that uplifts others, we want to hear their stories.

Nominations are due by Friday, November 7, and can be submitted easily through the Chamber’s website at CashiersAreaChamber.com. For questions or assistance, call (828) 743-5181— the Chamber team is happy to help.

This year’s Spirit Award Reception will be held on Thursday,

November 13 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Micas Mountain Kitchen, one of Cashiers’ most beloved gathering spots. The evening will feature light bites, community camaraderie, and the unveiling of this year’s Spirit Award honorees. All are welcome to attend and join in celebrating the people who go above and beyond to keep our mountain community strong.

The celebration continues into the holiday season, as our 2025 Spirit Award winners will be specially recognized during 51st Annual Cashiers Christmas Peppermint Stick Parade, themed The Gingerbread Man’s Mountain March. The parade will take place on Saturday, December 6 at 3:00 P.M., bringing festive cheer to the crossroads once again.

This year’s parade features an improved, extended route to enhance viewing and safety for all. The route begins at Frank Allen Road and Highway 64 West, proceeds to the crossroads, then turns right onto NC 107 South toward

Cashiers School Road. Parade participants and spectators alike can look forward to an even more exciting experience along the way.

And in true hometown fashion, the Chamber is thrilled to announce that this year’s Grand Marshal will be none other than Fire Chief Randy Dillard—a beloved local leader whose steady service, courage, and kindness exemplify the best of Cashiers. His dedication to protecting our community makes him the perfect choice to lead the parade and close this year’s season of celebration.

So mark your calendars, submit your nominations, and join us as we honor the heart and spirit of the Cashiers community—one that continues to thrive through service, connection, and the joy of coming together.

by Mary Jane McCall

Scan to view parade route.

Never Forgotten

On December 13, Highlands gathers to honor veterans through Wreaths Across America—a moving tribute of remembrance, unity, and gratitude.

The Highlands community will gather on Saturday, December 13, at 12:00 P.M. for the annual Wreaths Across America ceremony — a time to remember, honor, and celebrate the brave men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform. The ceremony will begin at the Highlands Community Building, 869 North 4th Street, where community members of all ages come together in gratitude and reflection.

This year’s presentation will include eight ceremonial wreaths, representing all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces — Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Merchant Marine, Coast Guard, Space Force — along with a wreath to honor all POW/MIA heroes who never returned home. Each wreath is a symbol of remembrance, unity, and enduring respect.

Following the ceremony, shuttle service will transport volunteers and family members to Highlands Cemetery, across from Little Bear Pen on Memorial Park Drive. More than 500 wreaths will be placed upon the graves of local veterans — a gesture small in effort but

immeasurable in meaning. The mission extends beyond Highlands Cemetery, reaching Scaly Methodist, Scaly Baptist, Horse Cove, Macedonia, Clear Creek, Buck Creek, Mt. Moriah, Miller, and even the smallest family plots, where loved ones continue the tradition throughout the weekend.

“Walking those hills and placing those wreaths is a labor of love,” shares Phil Potts, organizer of Wreaths Across America in Highlands. “We locate each grave, and as the wreath is placed, we say their name, their service, and repeat, ‘they are never forgotten.’”

The 2025 national theme, “Keep Moving Forward,” was inspired by the final words of Captain Joshua Byers, who was killed in action in Iraq. His message challenges us to embody resilience and hope — to honor the past while continuing to serve and strengthen our communities.

Clay Hartman, Highlands resident and retired U.S. Navy Commander, offers this reflection: “As a retired U.S. Navy Commander, I support Wreaths Across America for what it symbolizes:

the sacrifice of those who defended the freedoms embodied in our flag. The Stars and Stripes belong to every American. It does not divide us; it unites us as the United States. It is not a banner of division, but of duty, sacrifice, and hope. To honor those who wore the uniform, we must recommit to unity — one nation, indivisible, under a flag that belongs to us all.”

Everyone is encouraged to take part — by volunteering, sponsoring a wreath, or simply sharing in this powerful act of remembrance. Each wreath costs $17, and sponsors make it possible to ensure that no veteran is ever forgotten.

To sponsor a wreath or learn more, contact Phil Potts at (828) 200 -9753 or via email at ppotts63@frontier.com.

Join Highlands in remembering, honoring, and teaching the legacy of service and sacrifice. Together — with hearts full of gratitude and eyes fixed on the future — we “Keep Moving Forward.” by Marjorie Deal

Scan to sponsor a wreath

Highlands Holiday Stroll

On November 29, Highlands comes alive with music, treats, and hometown cheer during the inaugural Small Business Saturday Holiday Stroll. Celebrate the season, support local shops, and enjoy a day of festive fun for the whole family.

Downtown Highlands will be the center of holiday activity on Saturday, November 29, during the inaugural Small Business Saturday Holiday Stroll, brought to you by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC.

From 11:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., the community will gather for an afternoon of shopping, music, and seasonal activities that highlight the importance of supporting local businesses.

The day begins at Hudson Library, where children and families gather for a holiday-themed Storytime at 11:30 A.M. Soon after, Town Square awakens with the cozy aromas of hot cider and fresh popcorn, a simple pleasure that sets the tone for an afternoon brimming with small-town cheer.

Highlands knows how to fill the streets with song. The Foxfire Boys kick things off with their signature sound from noon

to 2:00 P.M., while face painting at The Bascom from 1:30 to 2:30 P.M. keeps the little ones smiling. At 2:30 P.M., shoppers strolling Main Street may pause to hear the harmonies of The City Carolers, their voices weaving timeless classics through downtown.

…the community will gather for an afternoon of shopping, music, and seasonal activities…

Highlands loves a good surprise—and the Highlands Police Department adds a sweet one, handing out candy canes throughout the day.

The Holiday Stroll is not only about entertainment, it’s also about the heart of Highlands: its small businesses. From boutique shops to cozy cafes, merchants will offer special promotions and seasonal

treats, giving families countless reasons to linger. It is the perfect moment to check off gift lists while knowing every purchase supports local entrepreneurs. Our Small Business Saturday is not just about shopping, it is about celebrating community. This event highlights the charm of our town, the dedication of our small businesses, and the joy of the holiday season.

So, bundle up, bring your family, and join your neighbors for a day filled with music, treats, and timeless holiday cheer. Whether you come for the carolers, hot apple cider, or that perfect locally made gift, the Small Business Saturday Holiday Stroll offers a wonderful way to celebrate the season while supporting local businesses. by Johanna Fein, Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC

Turkey Trotters

Kick off Thanksgiving morning with the Gobble on the Green 5K Run/ Walk on November 27, at 9:00 A.M. at The Village Green in Cashiers, a festive and family-friendly tradition celebrating community and gratitude.

Before the turkey is carved and the cranberry sauce finds its place on the plate, Cashiers residents and visitors alike gather for a tradition that’s heartwarming and invigorating – the Gobble on the Green 5K Run/Walk, set for 9:00 A.M. Thursday, November 27. Held rain or shine on Thanksgiving morning, this annual event winds through the scenic paths and gentle terrain of The Village Green, offering a spirited start to the holiday. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a stroller with coffee in hand, the Gobble on the Green celebrates movement, community, and gratitude.

Pre-race check-in is available Wednesday, November 26, from 3:00 to 6:00 P.M. at Lewis Hall (160 Frank Allen Road), where participants can pick up bibs and t-shirts early. Race day check-in opens at 7:15 A.M., with the starting line active shortly after 8:30 A.M. The course includes gravel, grass,

dirt, and paved paths – a reminder that Thanksgiving, like life, requires sturdy shoes and a flexible spirit. While The Village Green is dog-friendly most days, this event is for two-legged participants only.

For the youngest turkeys, the fourth annual Junior Warrior Course returns at The Village Green Playground. This free, interactive obstacle course invites children to climb, crawl, and conquer with joy. It’s a family-friendly tradition that begins with muddy sneakers and proud smiles.

After the final strides, the celebration continues with door prize drawings and awards for the top two overall finishers in seven age categories. Participants must be present to win, but the real reward is the shared experience – laughter, cheers, and lasting memories.

Proceeds support The Village Green’s mission to provide over 270 days of free community events annually. It’s more

than a race – it’s a gathering to give thanks for the place we call home and the people who make it extraordinary. So this Thanksgiving, before the gravy flows and the pies are sliced, come Gobble on the Green. Your heart – and your hamstrings – will thank you.

“The Village Green enhances community life with cherished traditions that make Cashiers so special,” says Ashlie Mitchell, Executive Director. “Make plans now to Gobble on the Green before your feast and do the Turkey Day wobble!”

The Village Green is a privately conserved, beautiful, free public space. Visit villagegreencashiersnc.com for events. For info or donations, call (828) 743-3434 or email info@villagegreencashiersnc.com.

by Luke Osteen

Winter Farmers’ Market

This November 22 and December 13, the Highlands Rec Center hosts the Winter Farmers’ Market from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M., bringing local flavors, artisan goods, and festive cheer indoors for the season.

As the Plateau’s golden leaves gave way to crisp mountain air with the arrival of November, the spirit of the Saturday Farmers Market finds a new home indoors –twice this season.

Mark your calendars: on Saturday, November 22, and again on Saturday, December 13, from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M., the Highlands Rec Center will transform into a festive haven for local flavor, artistry, and holiday cheer.

These Winter Markets are more than just a seasonal shift – they’re a celebration of community resilience and creativity. Your favorite vendors from the outdoor market (plus a few friendly surprises) will be warm and cozy inside, offering everything from fresh produce and locally made bakery treats to specialty foods, handcrafted gifts,

and artful jewelry. The air will be rich with the scent of cinnamon, pine, and something even more familiar: the free cup of Haitian Coffee that’s become a beloved tradition.

Expect to find Haitian metal art gleaming beside Appalachian woodcraft, unique products that tell stories of the Plateau, and neighbors catching up over steaming mugs and shared memories.

Whether you’re hunting for one-of-akind holiday gifts or simply craving the comfort of community, these markets promise a little magic for everyone.

So bundle up, bring a friend, and step into the warmth of the Rec Center. The Winter Markets are back, and they’re brimming with heart, heritage, and holiday joy.

by Luke Osteen

As autumn settles over Scaly Mountain, The Vineyard at High Holly becomes a cozy haven for connection, flavor, and live music. Whether you’re sipping bold reds by the fire or enjoying the rhythm of a weekend set, every visit to Barrel & Vine is a celebration of November’s warmth and community.

Live Music and November Vibes

Each Sunday in November, The Vineyard comes alive with live music from 2:00–5:00 P.M., featuring soulful duos and spirited ensembles that complement the vineyard’s cozy charm and seasonal beauty. Additional performances include Saturday, November 22 from 2:00–5:00 P.M. and Friday, November 28 from 2:00–6:00 P.M.—perfect moments to sip, sway, and soak in the rhythm of fall.

Seasonal Menus & Wine Flights

This November, Barrel & Vine’s menu

embraces the heartier side of the season, featuring fresh, local ingredients in every comforting dish. Pair your plate with a curated wine flight and explore bold reds, crisp whites, and seasonal blends that warm the palate and lift the spirit. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply savoring the moment, each bite and sip is a celebration of fall.

A Gathering Place Like No Other Open Wednesdays, Thursdays (closed Thanksgiving), Fridays, and Sundays from 12:00–6:00 P.M., The Vineyard at High Holly welcomes you to slow down and savor the season. Whether you’re planning a cozy date, a festive family outing, or a spontaneous stop on your mountain drive, there’s always something to enjoy—like artist-led workshops, themed dinners, and seasonal gatherings that celebrate creativity and connection. Every visit offers a little magic, and every moment lingers.

Happenings at The Vineyard at High Holly

As November unfolds, The Vineyard becomes a cozy retreat—where crisp mountain air meets rich wines, live music, and moments worth lingering over.

View the complete Highlands Cashiers Plateau Calendar

Bluegrass, 10 AM-1:30 PM, Highlander Mountain House. Sacred Sundays, 1-2:30 PM, Unfurl Wellness Spa.

Live Music, 2-5 PM, The Vineyard at High Holly.

Deathtrap, 2 PM, Highlands PAC. Music Bingo, 7 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Sacred Sundays, 1-2:30 PM, Unfurl Wellness Spa.

Deathtrap, 2 PM, Highlands PAC.

Live Music, 2-5 PM, The Vineyard at High Holly.

Music Bingo, 7 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

HFW | Shot at Redemption 11 AM, The Bascom.

Sacred Sundays, 1-2:30 PM, Unfurl Wellness Spa.

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, 2 PM, Highlands PAC. Live Music, 2-5 PM, The Vineyard at High Holly.

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, 5:30 PM, Highlands PAC. Music Bingo, 7 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Sacred Sundays, 1 PM, Unfurl Wellness Spa.

Live Music, 2-5 PM, The Vineyard at High Holly.

NOVEMBER

“Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” — Marcel Proust

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM.

Deathtrap, 2 PM, Highlands PAC.

Live Music, 3-6 PM, Highlands Wine Shoppe.

Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

Live Music, Corey Stevenson, 6 PM, Happs Place.

Karaoke Night, 9:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub. 21 22 11 10 14 13 12 15 1 16

Music Bingo, 7 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Sacred Sundays, 1 PM, Unfurl Wellness Spa.

30

Live Music, 2-5 PM, The Vineyard at High Holly. Music Bingo, 7 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist Church. Studio Alive, 10 AM-1 PM, The Bascom.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist Church. The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM.

The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.

3 2 4 5

Live Music, 5 PM, Cashiers Celtic Table.

Live Music, 5-7 PM, Highlands

Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist Church.

Studio Alive, 10 AM-1 PM, The Bascom. Farmers, Foragers & Friends, 6-9 PM, High Country Wine & Provisions.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist Church. The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM.

CLE Book Club, 1-3 PM, Center for Life Enrichment.

Live Music, 5 PM, Cashiers Celtic Table.

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

Live Music, 6 PM, Trailborn. Old World vs New World, 5:30 PM, One Wicker Cheese Co. High Notes Release Party 6 PM, High Country Wine & Provisions. Rotary Club Bingo, 6:30 PM, Highlands Community Building. Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive. 6

Tuscany Wine Tastings, 12-4 PM, Highlands Fine Art & Estate Jewelry Wine Shop.

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, 2 PM, Highlands PAC. NTL | Mrs. Warren’s Profession, 5 PM, Highlands PAC.

Live Music, Corey Stevenson, 6 PM, Happs Place. HFW | Grand Tasting, 7 PM, The Bascom.

Live Music, 6 PM, Trailborn Highlands. Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM.

Fedeli Trunk Show, TJ Bailey.

Kate Furman Trunk Show, 1-5 PM, The Bascom.

7

Live Music, 5 PM, Western Carolina Brew and Wine.

Vino & Vibes, 6-8 PM, High Country Wine Provisions.

Live Music, Blue Jazz, 6 PM, Happs Place.

Karaoke Night, 9:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Bazaar Barn,10 AM-2 PM. Highlands Food and Wine Events: See pages 18 and 118.

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, 2 PM, Highlands PAC.

Live Music, 5 PM, Western Carolina Brew and Wine.

Live Music, Doug Ramsey, 6 PM, Happs Place. Vino & Vibes, 6-8 PM, High Country Wine Provisions. Yacht Rock Gold Experience, 7:30 PM, Highlands PAC.

Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. Karaoke, 9:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.

Live Music, 3-6 PM, Highlands Wine

Saturday Sound Bath, 4 PM, Unfurl Wellness Spa. Live Music, Rock Hollar, 6 PM, Happs Place.

Highlands Food and Wine Events: See pages 18 and 118. Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Live Music, Highlands Wine Shoppe. Saturday Sound Bath, 4 PM, Unfurl Wellness Spa. Giacomo Puccini’s La Bohème, 1 PM, Highlands PAC. All Ages Ornament Pottery, 1:30-3:30 PM, The Bascom.

Live Music, 5 PM, Western Carolina Brew and Wine.

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, 5:30 PM, Highlands PAC. Live Music, 6 PM, Happs Place.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist Church. Studio Alive, 10 AM-1 PM, The Bascom.

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, 2 PM, Highlands PAC.

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, 5:30 PM, Highlands PAC.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist. Studio Alive, 10 AM-1 PM, The Bascom.

18 17

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist Church. The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM. Wings for Thomas, 1:30-4:30 PM, Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Bookworm, 11 AM-4 PM.

Tailgate Cooperage, Duck Hawk Provisions.

Live Music, 5 PM, Cashiers Celtic Table.

19

Frida: Viva La Vida, 5 PM, Highlands PAC.

Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.

20

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

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

Live Music, 3-6 PM, The Vineyard at High Holly.

Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

Live Music, Kody Paul, 6 PM, Happs Place.

Vino & Vibes, 6-8 PM, High Country Wine Provisions.

Music Bingo, 6-8 PM, Western Carolina Brew and Wine.

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM.

Art & Soul Trunk Show, 10 AM-3 PM, Highlands Rec Center.

Live Music, 3-6 PM, Highlands Wine Shoppe. Saturday Sound Bath, 4 PM, Unfurl Wellness Spa. Richard Strauss’ Arabella, 1 PM, Highlands PAC.

Sip

Live

Live

6 PM, Happs

5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands

Live Music, 6 PM, Happs Place. Nashville Noel, 7:30 PM, PAC. Karaoke, 9:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub. 28

Artists Show, Jeanie Edwards Fine Art.

29

Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Cashiers Festival of Trees, 10 AM5 PM, Summit Charter School.

Live Music, 2-5 PM, The Vineyard at High Holly. Light up the Park and Visit Santa, 6-8 PM, KH Park. Live Music, 6 PM, Happs Place. Live Music, 3-6 PM, Highlands Wine Shoppe. Saturday Sound Bath, 4 PM, Unfurl Wellness Spa. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge.

N Smash Wine Art Event, 1 PM, Western Carolina Brew and Wine.

Live Music, 2-5 PM, The Vineyard at High Holly.

Music,

Place.

Music,

Smokehouse.

Pub.

Fedeli Trunk Show, TJ Bailey. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM.

Kate Furman Trunk Show, 10 AM, The Bascom. Deathtrap, 2 PM, Highlands PAC.

Intro to Watercolor, 2-3:30 PM, The Bascom.

Shoppe.

ON THE HORIZON

December Events

DECEMBER 5-21

Home for the Holidays

Mountain Theatre Company at Highlands PAC

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with this annual holiday spectacular! Fun for all ages, this festive seasonal music revue promises dazzling costumes, high energy choreography, and is sure to fill audiences with plenty of good, old-fashioned holiday cheer! mountaintheatre.com

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6

51st Cashiers Christmas Parade

Gingerbread Man’s Mountain March

3-5 PM, 107 South

We’re sweet on this year’s 51st Annual Cashiers Christmas Parade, marching your way on Saturday, December 6 with another whimsical theme. cashiers411.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17

Fireside at The Farm

6-8 PM, The Farm at Old Edwards

Join in for Fireside at The Farm: A Holiday Evening with Mike Kinnebrew. Settle into the magical ambiance of The Farm and relax into a special evening with the sounds of holiday music filling the pavilion. oldedwardshospitality.com

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6

Highlands Olde Mountain Christmas Parade

10 AM-12 PM, Main Street Highlands

What happens when the bands, camels, and floats arrive in Highlands? An amazing small-town Christmas Parade that you don’t want to miss! Gather all your family, friends and neighbors and join the merry making on Main Street for this long-standing Highlands Christmas tradition. highlandschamber.org

SATURDAYS IN DECEMBER

Santa in the Park

Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park

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

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14

Lighting of the Menorah 5:30 PM, Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park Hanukkah is an eight-day winter festival of lights, celebrated to mark the triumph of light over darkness. One candle of the giant menorah will be lit on the first night of Hanukkah and an additional candle each successive night. This will be done until the eighth night when the Menorah is fully illuminated.

Winter Events

ALL WINTER LONG

Mountaintop Rotary’s Winter Coat Drive

Collection boxes located throughout Highlands Beginning every fall, the Mountaintop Rotary’s Winter Coat Drive is an annual Highlands-Cashiers event that collects new and gently used coats, hats, scarves, and gloves for those in need. Collection boxes are located throughout Highlands. mtrgives.org

WEDNESDAYS

Bluegrass Wednesdays

6:30 PM, The Ugly Dog Pub

Dance the night away at The Ugly Dog Pub with the bluegrass stylings of Nitrograss. theuglydogpub.com

THURSDAYS-SUNDAYS

Ice Skating at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park

Downtown Highlands offers ice skating in the picturesque Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park during the winter months.

Don’t miss your opportunity to take a turn around the rink. highlandsnc.org

SUNDAYS

Live Bluegrass

10:30 AM-12:30 PM, Highlander Mountain House

Enjoy live bluegrass every Sunday during Brunchserved 10 AM-3 PM highlandermountainhouse.com

THURSDAYS

Carolina Concert Series

6 PM, Trailborn Highlands

Enjoy live music, local flavor, and good company at Trailborn Highlands’ ongoing Carolina Concert Series. trailborn.com/highlands

FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS Live Music

5:30-10 PM, Hummingbird Lounge

Plush easy chairs, sofas, and antique bistro tables invite you to sit back and embrace the carefree ambiance surrounding you at Hummingbird Lounge with live entertainment every Friday and Saturday night. oldedwardshospitality.com

Beth Townsend # 15 Agent in

WHAT BETH’S CLIENTS ARE SAYING...

“Wehaveworkedwithmanyrealestateagents overtheyears,andBethstandsoutasthevery best.SherepresentedusinbothHighlands andHighHamptonwithexpertise,thoughtful strategy,andflawlesscommunication.She knowsthemarketintimately,negotiateswith confidence,andalwaysensuresthebestpossible outcome.BethTownsendistrulyoneofakind.”

–MISTY & BILL B.

“IhaveworkedwithBethformorethan30years asbothbuyerandsellerintheCashiersarea.Her experience,dedication,andsteadytemperament havebeeninvaluabletimeandagain.Most recently,sheguidedusthroughanextremely complicatedsalewithremarkableskillandgrace. Bethisatrustedadvisor,arespectedfriend,and simplythebest.” –

PATTIE B.

“BethTownsend’sknowledgeofCashiersand itsneighborhoodswasinvaluable.Shequickly understoodexactlywhatwewerelookingforand evenarrangedashowingofanunlistedproperty thatturnedouttobeaperfectmatch.Thanksto herinsight,persistence,andpersonalcare,we arenowproud,grateful,andextremelyhappy homeowners who feel fortunate to have worked with her.” –

CARRIE & JOHN I.

“Whensellingachallengingproperty,youwant Bethonyourteam.Sheisdetermined,creative, andperseverestomeetyourgoals.Fromlatenightemailstoweekendtexts,shegoesfar beyondher‘brokerduties’tokeeptheprocess moving.Fromstarttofinish,youknowinstantly thatyouhaveanessentialadvocateandtrusted professionalonyourside.” –SEAN L.

Offered for $7,850,000

6 BR / 7.5 BA / 1.20 ACRES / MLS 1000724

• Golf front home on 10th hole of award-winning Fazio course

• Large lot has mountain view, pond and stone walled gardens

• Great room has new skylights and “dueling” stone fi replaces “Old Sapphire” Offered for $4,295,000

6 BR / 5.5 BA / 18.46 ACRES / MLS 1000716

• Unrestricted private mountain estate in “old Sapphire”

• Custom designed, one-owner property built in 2005

• Very convenient to Burlingame Country Club and the River

Cedar Ridge Estates

Offered for $3,815,000 (JUST REDUCED)

3+ BR / 3.5 BA / 14.99 ACRES / MLS 1000130

• Garden-centric home with lovely exterior vignettes

• Expansive great room with dramatic rock face view

• Custom kitchen that will please an expert chef

Whitewater Ridge Offered for $2,795,000

4 BR / 3.5 BA / 11.36 ACRES / MLS 1000882

• 11 acre estate in gated community borders USFS

• Enormous year round long range mountain views

• Custom, impeccably maintained home, brilliant floor plan

Chattooga Club

Offered for $2,750,000

5 BR / 5 BA / 3.16 ACRES / MLS 1001613

• Clean, modern, renovated home with loads of daylight

• Beautiful views of Rock and Chimneytop Mountains

• Stylishly furnished and move-in ready

Point Offered for $995,000

5 BR / 5 BA / 1.20 ACRES / MLS 1000980

• Excellent investment property near the lake

• Main house and separate guest house

• Updated with a bright, clean flavor

Photo by Susan Renfro

Silver Run Falls

Silver Run Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls near Cashiers, offers an easy, improved trail with two viewing areas and a shallow wading pool perfect for cooling down after the hike.

Silver Run Falls is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Cashiers area. This is especially true during rainy periods. Until recent years it was somewhat difficult due to many exposed tree roots.

A few years ago, the trail was greatly improved making the hike very easy and much safer. The pool of water at the base of the falls is shallow with a sand bottom making it ideal for wading, weather permitting.

Directions to the Trailhead

From the intersection of US 64, drive south on NC 107 for four miles. The small parking area is on the left.

Hike Description

There are two viewing areas. The hike to the first viewing area is flat and only about a hundred yards from the parking area. The second viewing area is a very short distance beyond the first. The footing can be difficult due to the roots on the trail to the second viewing area.

by Ed and Cindy Boos

At a Glance Waterfall Guide

Enjoy this sampling of area waterfalls, for a deep dive visit thelaurelmagazine.com/recreation.

HIGHLANDS

Bridal Veil Falls

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

Dry Falls

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

Bust Your Butt Falls

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

Glen Falls

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

Upper Middle Creek Falls

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

CASHIERS

Silver Run Falls

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

Whitewater Falls

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

Cashiers Sliding Rock

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

Spoonauger Falls

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

Schoolhouse Falls

Scan for more information on the many waterfalls in the Highlands and Cashiers area.

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

Storm Survivor

After extensive hurricane damage, Chimney Rock State Park reopened offering limited-hours access by reservation with breathtaking hikes and panoramic views in the Hickory Nut Gorge area near Asheville.

For more than 100 years, Chimney Rock has been a sought-after destination for awe-inspiring hiking, due to the main natural feature of its 315-foot-tall monolith rock as well as the 404-foot Hickory Nut Falls. The area, surrounded by gigantic slick rocks and massive sheer cliffs, has drawn untold numbers of nature lovers, as well as movie filming crews, most notably 1992’s “Last of the Mohicans.”

However, the grounds of Chimney Rock State Park, located on the east side of Asheville, remained silent for the better part of a year due to four roads into the area destroyed or severely damaged as a result of flood waters and mudslides caused by September 2024’s Hurricane Helene. Even the steel bridge connecting the small town of Chimney Rock to the road that winds up to the park was washed away.

But Chimney Rock State Park is again open every day of the year, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and offers not only exceptional views but great walking and hiking opportunities.

Even though – at least for the foreseeable future because of effects of Helene on the surrounding area – there is only one road currently open and visitors must now reserve a ticket ahead of time, prioritizing a trip to Chimney Rock is worth any inconvenience. Plus, most importantly, visitors are supporting

one of this region’s breathtaking treasures.

To get to Chimney Rock State Park, travel on Interstate 26 from Columbus (41 miles from Asheville and about the same distance from Brevard) down pastoral NC 9 and through Lake Lure. It is important to only take this route as GPS will try to direct drivers through the other three pre-Helene routes that are either still 100 percent closed or are only open to construction crews, essential workers, and full-time residents.

Although the scenes around Lake Lure are mind-numbing in terms of visible damage, as well as countless dump trucks and backhoes in every direction, the temporary bridge to Chimney Rock is only a few miles past. Once over the bridge (a new permanent bridge is planned via the Raise the Rock initiative), a deep sigh may ensue. Driving up, up, up to the parking lot of Chimney Rock provides a glimpse of a mostly untouched Appalachian Mountain’s forest.

After getting parked, two choices are offered to reach the American-flag-topped “chimney”: an elevator ride or a workout of more than 400 stairs. Despite which route is chosen, making it to an elevation of 2,280 feet presents the gift of 75-mile panoramic views.

While just being on the stone pillar is quite enough for

View from Chimney Rock, looking east toward Lake Lure. Chimney Rock

Rocky Broad River, where the Chimney Rock bridge once stood.

some people, options exist for venturing farther on the Outcroppings Trail to experience Gneiss Cave, formed when a large section of Gneiss granite fell. Additionally, this trail winds in, around, and over smooth rock via stairs and pathways. The short, 20-minute Exclamation Trail affords a different view of Chimney Rock; plus, on the way is Opera Box – a stone shelf, under which visitors can have their photographs taken.

The 2.2-mile round-trip Skyline Trail is the longest and leads to the top of Hickory Nut Falls, with a stop at the Peregrine’s Point overlook, 2,640 feet above sea level. After viewing all the stunning high elevation vistas, a drive back down toward the exit of Chimney Rock provides a hike of 1.4 miles, round-trip, to enjoy standing at the base of Hickory Nut Falls. A few other trails are available inside the park as well, but that is a glance at some of the main ones.

Finally, for families of small children, there is an educational Animal Discovery Den and an interactive Great Woodland Adventure trail; for the more adventurous: rock climbing.

The website conveys more of the history and specialness of Chimney Rock State Park, which – from the Plateau – is a rewarding day trip that will leave everyone involved singing its praises.

by Deena Bouknight

Talking Turkey

The Wild Turkey, once nearly wiped out, has made a remarkable comeback across North America thanks to conservation efforts.

The Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) is a native of North America, abundant on the continent when Columbus arrived.

According to Lovett Williams, in 1492 the population of this indigenous bird covered much of the eastern and southern land mass and numbered 40 million. By 1940, overhunting and habitat loss had reduced their presence to just 12 percent of their earlier range. Since then, good conservation and transplant efforts have reinstated the Wild Turkey, and it now appears in all 48 contiguous states. This hardy American is highly social and prodigiously vocal within its flock or “raft.” They produce at least 30 distinct calls and vocalizations, signals to others within earshot. The males gobble to call the hens, hence they are “gobblers.” There are also “whippoorwill calls” to warn an adversary, distinct “rattles” that signal a fight, and a sharp, loud note or “alarm putt” signaling an approaching predator.

Other alarms include an “alarm pitpit-pit” calling all heads up, a “singing alarm” signaling a high-flying bird of prey and “distress scream” when attacked. Hens emit “hatchling yelps,” “hatchling hoots” and “assembly yelps” to hatchlings and young poults. There are a variety of other turkey whistles, cackles, clucks, coos and calls. Poults begin imprinting on their hen mothers’ calls before hatching. Immature males are called Jakes. Gobblers or “Toms” court females and try to intimidate other males with a puffed-up display of feathers that is worthy of a float in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade. Gobblers and some hens sport beards, wattles, caruncles and a snood hanging over the beak. The male’s featherless head can change colors quickly from gray to red and blue signaling mood and sexual interest.

Turkeys forage along roads and woodlands, and in open fields, and have home ranges of hundreds of acres depending

on the availability of insects, grubs, nuts and other food. Nationally, their range has expanded north and west. Adults molt gradually once a year in the warmth of the summer months.

Happy Thanksgiving and happy November birding from the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society. Look for these iconic creatures foraging among the leaves or crossing the road. The Thanksgiving Day turkey that graces our tables each year is a domestic version of America’s Wild Turkey.

The Highlands Plateau Audubon Society, focused on enjoying and preserving birds and their habitats, is a Chapter of the National Audubon Society and a 501(c) (3) organization. For information on all our activities and membership, please visit highlandsaudubonsociety.org.

by

William McReynolds, Highlands Plateau Audubon Society photo by Male Chutzpah

Advancing Science Through Grants

For over 50 years, the Highlands Biological Foundation has funded vital research on southern Appalachian biodiversity through its Grants-in-Aid program, supporting students and scientists in groundbreaking ecological studies.

Anna Boodée

Each year, the Highlands Biological Foundation helps bring new discoveries to life through its Grants-in-Aid of Scientific Research program. For over 50 years, these member-supported grants have funded students and research scientists conducting projects at the Highlands Biological Station, part of Western Carolina University. By supporting this program, HBF donors help advance understanding of the extraordinary biodiversity of the southern Appalachian Mountains.

This year’s GIA recipients explored topics ranging from microplastic pollution to salamander communication and wetland restoration—each contributing new insights into the complex ecosystems surrounding Highlands.

UNC-Chapel Hill undergraduate Anna Boodée investigated how wetland restoration impacts wildlife in Franklin. Using acoustic monitors, she compared bat and frog activity between restored

and unrestored wetlands and found that the restored site had the highest species diversity and activity levels. Her findings suggest that restoration improves habitat quality and supports richer, more resilient wildlife communities—critical information for conservation efforts in the region.

Another UNC-Chapel Hill student, Erin Flanagan, examined microplastics in Appalachian forests and their movement through terrestrial food chains. Her team collected samples of atmospheric deposition, earthworms, and shrews at HBS to see how microplastics travel from the air into living organisms. The study revealed microplastics in both earthworms and shrews—with the highest concentrations found in shrew hearts—and similarities across samples pointing to the atmosphere as a key pollution source. This research is among the first to document microplastics in wild terrestrial animals in the southern United States and highlights the farreaching impacts of plastic pollution on even remote mountain ecosystems.

Paul Nicolosi, a Ph.D. student from Ohio State University, focused on chemical communication in lungless salamanders—a hallmark group of the southern Appalachians. His research expands on earlier work showing that salamanders use pheromone proteins in their skin mucus to signal species, sex, and reproductive status. By collecting samples from five species across the Highlands area, Nicolosi aims to uncover how these chemical cues evolved and shape salamander courtship behavior.

From salamanders to shrews, these studies show how HBF’s grants empower young scientists to deepen our understanding of the natural world. Each donation fuels discoveries that help protect the extraordinary biodiversity that makes the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau such a unique place to live, learn, and explore.

by Marissa Nieddu , Highlands Biological Foundation

Saving Satulah

In 1909, Highlands rallied to protect the summit of Satulah Mountain—one of the region’s earliest acts of grassroots conservation. More than a century later, that legacy still echoes with every step to the top.

The popularity of the website “GoFundMe” has made public solicitation requests commonplace and is a great way to allow a community to come together to fund specific projects – but did you know that one of Highlands’ most iconic natural resources was once saved by a successful “crowd funding” initiative?

The Highlands Improvement Society traced its roots to the early 1880s and by the dawn of the twentieth century included in it stated purpose “to guard (Highlands) natural beauties” and to foster “an enlightened public opinion that shall cherish and safeguard its unique scenic and sanitary possessions.”

In 1909 a fear that commercial development – a rumored hotel – might be under consideration for the summit of Satulah Mountain prompted the group to consider its first acquisition. Under the leadership of Miss Marguerite Ravenel, the Society convened on September 1 and decided to raise the $500 purchase price; $250 was

secured at that initial meeting, and with outreach to the community the entire amount was pledged by October 6, less than five short weeks.

The donor list reflects many prominent families of the times, including the Ravenels, Potts, Hills, Bascoms, Piersons, Chastains, and Brysons, and many gave generously. Dr. Anderson of Clemson contributed, as did the photographer Henry Scadin of Massachusetts.

But perhaps even more impressive were the youth and other citizens; Ed Potts sold candy, raising $1, while Eva and Dora Chastain contributed a dime each, Lillie Chastain a nickel. Out of almost 80 total contributions, more than half were for a dollar or less. Thus did the nascent town demonstrate the power of community and conservation, banding together to forever preserve the summit of Satulah.

Contributor Professor Thomas Harbison, Highlands’ first school teacher and later employed by Harvard and George

Vanderbilt’s Biltmore herbarium, exclaimed that the top of Satulah “is OURS, ours to keep forever. No money grubbing skinflint without any soul can ever acquire this top and then put up a toll gate to charge admission to what he the same as stole from God.”

Strong words from the professor, but thankfully that same passion for conservation burns brighter than ever throughout the Cashiers and Highlands community.

The Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, the successor organization to the Highlands Improvement Society, proudly continues facilitating the conservation of unique properties throughout Macon and Jackson counties.

And thanks to the foresight of our citizens over a century ago, hikers can still make their way up Satulah Mountain and savor the incredible views from its summit. by Lance Hardin, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust photo by Stephanie Contreras

Memory-Making Christmas Tree Farms

The holiday season on the Plateau begins with picking the perfect Fraser fir from local mountain farms, each offering breathtaking views, tradition, and festive family fun.

The holiday season on the Plateau begins not in a mall, but on windy mountain roads wound tight through rhododendron and pine. For many, Christmas truly starts when you pull off onto a farm, stomp through needles, and settle on one perfect Fraser fir. Before heading out, plan ahead: measure your ceiling first (that gorgeous tree might flirt with your living room’s limits), wear sturdy shoes and gloves, and once home, water daily and keep it away from heaters. Those small steps make the magic last.

At Chimney Pond Farm in Glenville, the experience begins with a view — and a promise. “We wait until mid-November to begin our harvest,” say the owners. “None of our trees are cut earlier! And we leave many standing so our Choose-n-Cut friends can return each year for the tradition.” This year, the farm opens November 27, 29, 30, and December 1–8, from 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. The slopes demand good footwear, and the views reward patience.

Chimney Pond is at 240 Chimney Pond Road, Glenville, NC, (704) 412-9748, or chimneypondfarm.com.

In Cashiers, Moss Tree Farm feels like a classic mountain farm grown through generations. Their fields stretch open, and the staff cut your tree the same day to preserve freshness. Moss also offers wreaths, perfect for doors or holiday tables. The farm is at 1822 Norton Road, Cashiers, NC, (828) 226-2340, or mosstreefarm.com.

Bear Valley Farm in Glenville delivers whimsy and tradition. A bright red caboose marks the entrance, and covered wagons carry guests through the fields. Children toast marshmallows by the fire, adults browse wreaths and garlands, and towering firs tempt even the most practical tree-hunters — so know your ceiling height before you come. This season, Bear Valley opens Saturday, November 23 (closed Thanksgiving Day), then Thursday–Sunday, 10:00 A.M.–4:00 P.M. The farm is at 231 Bee

Tree Road, Glenville, (828) 212-9797, or bearvalleyfarm.com.

Pressley Family Tree Farm near Glenville is where tradition reigns. Since the mid-1970s, the Pressleys have welcomed families to cut their own Fraser firs, offering shaking, bailing, refreshments, and restrooms. The farm opens Friday–Sunday after Thanksgiving and Saturday–Sunday the following weekend, or by appointment. It’s at 770 Shirley Pressley Road, Glenville, (828) 743-2275, or pressleyfamilytreefarm.com.

Whether it’s sweeping vistas, tractor-pulled wagons, or the calm of a family farm, each place offers more than a tree — a chance to carry a piece of the mountains, and the memory of the day, home for Christmas. Always check each farm’s website before heading out.

by Marlene Osteen

The Healing Hive

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Killer Bees Honey crafts some of the world’s most extraordinary wildflower honey—so potent it’s earning praise from around the globe.

In the world of artisanal honey, a quiet revolution is underway, and it’s happening right here in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Killer Bees Honey, the boutique apiary owned by husband-and-wife team Sean Collinsworth and Denise Altay, has earned international recognition for the medicinal quality of their wildflower honey. Recently, their honey achieved a Total Activity (TA) score of 33.2—a rating so rare it places them in the top one to two percent of honeys worldwide.

For context, the TA rating is a method widely used in Europe and New Zealand to measure honey’s antibacterial and healing properties, similar to the system used to certify New Zealand’s Manuka honeys. Most Manuka honeys fall between 10 and 20 on the scale. Killer Bees’ wildflower honey, grown in the mineral-rich soils of Lake Toxaway and the surrounding Pisgah Forest, tested at a level higher than 95 percent of Manuka honeys available today.

This breakthrough rating came after Sean and Denise decided to test their honey using European standards, encouraged by beekeeper friends in England who emphasized the importance of TA in the European market. The TA score reflects antibacterial strength through both peroxide and non-peroxide activity,

with anything above TA30 considered exceptionally potent and linked to significant health benefits.

Sean, who began raising bees at the age of 12 in Lake Forest, Illinois, has been keeping bees consecutively for 30 years since moving to North Carolina. Now a certified honey sommelier, he attributes the exceptional rating to their unique location. Since moving to the Plateau in 2014, he and Denise have cultivated a 75-acre apiary surrounded by 512,000 farm-free acres of Pisgah National Forest, officially designated as a Wildlife Refuge under the NC Wildlife Conservation Lands Program. “I could always taste the minerals in our honey,” Sean says. “Now we have the science to prove its potency.”

That potency carries real health implications. High TA honey provides natural antibiotic and antimicrobial properties, supporting digestive health by protecting against bacteria linked to IBS, IBD, acid reflux, and low stomach acid. It’s also an effective remedy for sore throats and coughs, while its antimicrobial strength offers broader protection against bacterial infections. Topically, the high TA value—including elevated hydrogen peroxide—enhances honey’s traditional wound-healing qualities, making it useful in treating burns,

Collinsworth and Denise Altay

cuts, and bacterial skin conditions.

This recognition builds on the couple’s long-standing commitment to transparency. Killer Bees is the only American apiary that sends its honey to labs in the U.S., Germany, and now New Zealand for pesticide and purity testing—and publishes every result. In a market often compromised by adulteration, their insistence on proof has set them apart.

Their harvests are as rare as they are sought after. Each season, their wildflower and smoky mountain honeys sell out, while their sourwood—the “champagne of honeys”— remains a coveted prize. Looking ahead, Sean and Denise are preparing a special release: Walnut Cove Mountain Honey, a micro-regional honey packaged in hand-blown glass bottles by Burnsville artist David Wilson. With only 250 bottles slated for spring 2026, this elegant, limited edition will embody both rarity and medicinal strength.

With its record-setting TA rating, Killer Bees Honey is more than a gourmet indulgence—it’s a world-class natural remedy, a product of land, bees, and the dedicated stewards who care for them.

by Marlene Osteen

Sean

Photo by Greg Clarkson

Draw from the Dirt

Ancient myths and nature come alive in Cover Artist Lauren Whitley’s paintings, where plants, animals, and folklore create vibrant stories that speak to the soul.

Ancient myths and the gods that dwelt in them are not dead. They are bone-deep alive in many cultures, frequently sleeping at the bottom of the human psyche.

Many tales stir in the soul of coverartist, Lauren Whitley. She shares her stories, recording them with bold strokes of vivid paint.

From her earliest memory, Lauren’s been a student of Nature, intrigued by the planet’s plant-powers, the deep-rooted

wisdom of animals, and the mystical marv’ling of how living beings exist at all.

Perhaps it was Lauren’s granddad who set her on this journey. She says, “He was close to nature. Spending a lot of time alone in the woods as a kid, he would play for hours while Nature bathed him in a reverence for the wild. He spoke of the mountains as living things.”

Lauren inherited that delight.

“Granddad would show us different plants and explain their purposes,” she says.

“Plants give us health and strength. Wild herbs, shrubs, fruit, and flowers give us medicine.”

The plants that grow all about us live in Lauren’s paintings.

Amidst leaves and flowers on her canvases, animals caper.

Lauren says, “My painting series, Plants and Animals, is creating a dialogue with creatures like rabbits, coyotes, raccoons. Using imagery and symbolism, I translate how those animals interact with

each other, the painting, the viewer, and the artist.”

Lauren spent years reading, inquiring, and researching cultural myths from Cherokee, Creek, and other indigenous people. She also explores European folklore, her focus on the Carolinas, Georgia, and North Florida backlands. While painting, Lauren works out issues, solves technical problems, and listens to illuminations the images offer from her painting, such as a masked raccoon. They’re rarely seen and less regarded. As hidden observers and clever schemers, they often play the role of high-priestess magician, the mischief-maker.

Mythical rabbits are often tricksters. They play on human hubris, and consequently

get into trouble. Think of the Br’er Rabbit stories (West African folklore).

Lauren says, ”I painted two rabbits and a violet leaf. Violet tea helps circulation. One rabbit was suffering heartbreak. Metaphysically, violet tea softens edges in body and spirit. The heartbreak, the leaves, the medicine, and the reconnection lead the rabbit and the viewer deeper, inviting self-relaxation and softening through the pain.”

If you asked Lauren her favorite beast, she’d say coyote.

“Coyote is me,” she says. “I often insert one, myself, into paintings. A kind of onthe-edge character. The way coyotes deal with things is a nuisance. It’s frightening, yet alluring. Coyotes are wild characters.

“I painted a boy coyote in whirling colors with a veil over his face. The revelation: I am going through a process, not knowing the outcome. I’m reminded it’s okay to be in chaos. I’ll be patient. Reflecting on the coyote helps me with patience and self-acceptance.”

Lauren’s paintings are layers deep with myth, color, symbolism, drama, lesson, magic, history, and so much more. Visit her framed, original paintings at Full House Gallery in Highlands. The remaining series is for sale on her website, unframed. Visit her at laurenjwhitleyart. com.med. Website: laurenjwhitleyart.com. by Donna Rhodes

Holiday Magic

The Bascom’s Holiday Market returns with artful gifts and creative traditions.

This November, The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts invites the community and visitors alike to step into a festive wonderland as it launches its second annual Holiday Market.

From November 4 through December 27, the art center’s retail space will be transformed into a seasonal destination filled with warmth and handcrafted treasures.

Shoppers will discover an array of unique gifts, thoughtfully created by local and regional artists. From ceramics and textiles to jewelry, woodworking, and playful pieces for children, the Holiday Market showcases the remarkable talents of artists including Frank Vickery, Ester Lipscomb, Christine Smith, Olga King, Virginia Fisher, Eva Hoke, Backyard Bees, Priscilla Galloway, Madison Minus, Bianca Mitchell, Gwen Greenglass, Anna

Scarpa McCauley, Donna Pollock, Art from Empties, Rebekah Babelay, Jack Barnes, and members of The Bascom Clay Studio, among many others.

…the art center’s retail space will be transformed into a seasonal destination filled with warmth and handcrafted treasures.

Every purchase supports both working artists and The Bascom’s mission to make the visual arts accessible to all.

Beyond shopping, the Holiday Market invites guests to embrace the spirit of the season through creative experiences. Visitors can sip hot chocolate, explore exhibitions, stop by the SmART Space to craft take-and-make wooden ornaments, or sign up for a holiday workshop. The lineup includes opportunities for both children and adults, with highlights

such as the beloved Gingerbread House Workshop, a family tradition that blends art, architecture, and just the right amount of confectionary whimsy. With its festive atmosphere, community spirit, and array of handcrafted works, The Bascom’s Holiday Market offers something for everyone, whether you are seeking a one-of-a-kind gift, an afternoon of creative fun, or simply a moment to pause and celebrate the season in Highlands.

The Holiday Market runs November 4 through December 27. For details about workshops, events, and other seasonal offerings, visit thebascom.org.

by Bianca Mitchell, The Bascom: Center for Visual Arts

Holiday Music Hits Highlands

This November, the Highlands Performing Arts Center offers two nights of unforgettable music— from the smooth sounds of Yacht Rock to a festive Country Christmas spectacular—perfect to get into the holiday spirit.

Yacht Rock

November in Highlands promises unforgettable evenings at the Highlands Performing Arts Center, where music lovers and holiday enthusiasts alike will find something to celebrate. This month, the Center welcomes two spectacular shows: the smooth sounds of Yacht Rock Gold Experience on Friday, November 14 at 7:30 P.M., and the heartwarming holiday extravaganza Nashville Noel on Friday, November 28 at 7:30 P.M.

Yacht Rock Gold Experience is more than a tribute – it’s a musical time machine transporting audiences back to the late 1970s and early 1980s, when the airwaves were filled with the mellow harmonies and irresistible grooves of bands like the Doobie Brothers, Fleetwood Mac, Steely Dan, Christopher Cross, Kenny Loggins, Little River Band, Ambrosia, and Boz Scaggs.

With four lead singers and a five-piece rhythm section, including iconic sax and

flute lines, Yacht Rock Gold delivers note-for-note renditions of beloved hits. Their incredible harmonies and musicianship bring audiences to their feet, show after show, creating an atmosphere where music soothes the soul and every song feels like a celebration. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering the genre for the first time, this is the Yacht Rock tribute you’ve been waiting for – so don your captain’s hat and get ready to party “All Night Long.”

Later in the month, Nashville Noel: A Country Christmas Spectacular brings the spirit of Nashville and the magic of Christmas together in a dazzling production that’s become a beloved tradition. Featuring a talented cast of musicians, singers, and dancers from the South, Nashville Noel captures the essence of Nashville’s rich musical heritage and the warmth of the holiday season. Audiences will be treated to toe-tapping renditions of classic Country

hits and heartwarming performances of cherished Christmas carols, blending nostalgia, joy, and festive cheer. The show’s infectious energy and top-notch performances make it a must-see event, perfect for families, country music fans, and anyone seeking to be uplifted and filled with holiday spirit.

Tickets for both events are available at highlandsperformingarts.com/live-onscreen. For more information, contact the box office at (828) 526-9047 or visit HighlandsPerformingArts.com.

by Jeanne Piazza, Executive Director, Highlands PAC

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It’s a Wonderful 30 Years

Highlands Cashiers Players mark their 30th anniversary with a heartwarming, oldfashioned holiday radio show—bringing community, music, and festive fun to the stage for all.

The Highlands Cashiers Players have an annual tradition of presenting a free holiday show to the community. It is their way of expressing gratitude to all those who support them throughout the year – donors, volunteers, and audience members.

This year’s show will be a special one as Highlands Cashiers Players are celebrating their 30th anniversary. The performance will be a 1940’s-style radio theater production of a shortened version of It’s A Wonderful Life, adapted by Joe Landry. There are almost 40 parts in the reading, and HCP is inviting anyone who has ever acted, directed or volunteered with HCP to be part of the show to recognize this special milestone. The time commitment is small - there will be no need to memorize anything because radio performers read from a script and there will only be one rehearsal.

“We would love for this 30th anniversary holiday performance to feel

like a homecoming for any and all who have ever been involved with Highlands Cashiers Players. We hope that anyone seeing this who has interacted with our group over the past 30 years will contact us and read a part in It’s A Wonderful Life. We don’t have to have 40 actors, because this play is usually done with a handful of people reading multiple parts, but wouldn’t it be fun if we did?” said April Getz, HCP president. Anyone who is interested in participating should contact April at aprilagetz@gmail.com.

In keeping with the old-time radio tradition, sound effects will be created live on stage using a variety of objects, such as corn flakes for cracking ice and crunching snow, and ribbon candy and a hammer to mimic the sound of breaking glass. This will add an interesting visual element to the show.

During ‘commercial breaks’ in the radio theater, live holiday music will be provided by a local band whose

performance is made possible by a grant from Macon Arts Council.

Following the show, guests will be invited to stay for cake and champagne (a departure from the usual cookies and cider in honor of the 30th anniversary) by the Saint Lucia bride, a Scandinavian hospitality custom often observed during the holidays. Families are encouraged to attend - nonalcoholic beverages will be provided for children.

The Holiday Show will take place on Tuesday, December 16, at 7:00 P.M. in the Martin-Lipscomb Theater at the Highlands Performing Arts Center. Admission is free, and seating will be on a first-come, first-served basis, so early arrival is encouraged.

by Mary Jane McCall

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Home for the Holidays: Spirit of The Season

Highlands’ beloved holiday tradition returns with a fresh new show featuring festive music, dazzling dance, and seasonal cheer for all ages.

Highlands’ most beloved holiday tradition — Home for the Holidays — returns in an all-new production: Spirit of the Season . An all-star cast performs festive favorites alongside fresh new arrangements, creating a sparkling seasonal spectacular for the whole family.

Thanks to a generous grant from Cullasaja Women’s Outreach, special student performances ensure that everyone in the community can share the wonder of live theatre.

This heart-warming 90-minute celebration bursts with breathtaking song, dazzling dance, and a touch of technical magic that will leave you asking, “How did they do that?” Whether it’s a cherished annual outing or a brand-new tradition, it is the perfect way to celebrate the season and fill your heart with holiday cheer.

Directed by Scott Daniel (MTC’s Executive Director) and Vocal Direction by Lori Nielsen (MTC’s Resident Vocal Director), with choreography by Erin Leigh Knowles (MTC’s Catch Me If You Can and Rock of Ages), MTC will open the finale production to their 87th season on December 5 at 7:30 P.M. at the Highlands Performing Arts Center in Highlands.

Some familiar faces return to the MTC stage for this brand-new spectacular. Terrance McQueen returns after last appearing in this season’s The Burnt Part Boys and Forever Plaid. MTC favorite Erin Leigh Knowles joins the cast after appearing in MTC’s summer hit, The Marvelous Wonderettes. Two stand-outs from MTC’s record-breaking 2024 summer season of Grease and Catch Me If You Can, welcome Marisa Spahn and Adriana Michelle Scheer to this Holiday spectacular. Rounding out the

triple-threat cast includes Thomas DalCeredo (Pretty Woman The Musical Nat’l Tour), Michael Rick, Lathan Roberts and Lydia Seremba (Hairspray, Royal Caribbean).

The production and creative team includes MTC veterans Bo Garrard as Sound Designer, Hannah Wien as Lighting Designer, and Scott Daniel as Scenic and Costume Designer.

Spirit of the Season will also highlight graphic design, animation and video production by Sasha Conley and Dante Giannetta (Broadway’s MJ the Musical, Beetlejuice, and Hadestown).

Tickets are available online at mountaintheatre.com.

Students under the age of 18 who are residents of Macon, Jackson, Transylvania, or Rabun Counties receive free Green Level tickets reserved in advance to any of MTC’s productions through our mission of #Theatre4All. Performances are Wednesday through Sunday at 3:00 P.M., and Saturday evenings at 7:30 P.M. Tickets range from $58 -$70.

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Liz Harris & Jessica Hoheisel

TWO SISTERS, ONE GOAL: YOUR REAL ESTATE SUCCESS

As sisters and brokers, we bring a powerful blend of synergy, passion, and market expertise to the CashiersHighlands area. With deep roots in the community and a shared commitment to excellence, we’ve combined our individual successes to create a powerhouse real estate duo—offering our clients twice the knowledge, strategy, and personalized service.

Liz, has been a leader in the region’s luxury real estate market for over 20 years and is currently the top ranked broker in Cashiers and the 2nd ranked broker on the Highlands/Cashiers plateau for 2024. Specializing in exclusive club communities, land and estates, and lakefront properties, she pairs strategic marketing with a keen eye for staging, ensuring every listing reaches its full potential.

Jessica’s solution oriented attitude is the driving force behind her career. Mentored by Liz Harris over the past five years, she’s quickly becoming an expert in high-end real estate, seamlessly navigating transactions and building strong client relationships. Possessing an innate ability to understand and connect with people, and a sharp eye for market trends, she helps buyers and sellers navigate the real estate process with confidence and ease.

Together, we offer a full-service real estate experience, combining elite marketing, expert negotiation, and an extensive network of industry professionals. Whether buying, selling, or investing, we ensure a smooth, strategic, and rewarding process. With us, you don’t just get agents—you get trusted advisors, relentless advocates, and a sister-driven team committed to your success. Let’s find or sell your place together.

“Liz and Jessica have guided us through the purchase and sale of several homes in Cashiers and we could not speak more highly of their expertise, attention to detail or the care and services they provided us as clients.You would be hard pressed to find a more knowledgeable agent; they have led us to a few of our best investments. This team will just about bend over backwards to find you the perfect real estate for your family. We are so grateful for their professionalism and assistance.” –

“Liz has successfully been my Broker on two occasions. First, she coordinated with other Brokers to get top-dollar for my home in Mountaintop. Next, she was able to secure a property I really wanted after it was just sold to someone else, and find a solution that satisfied everyone. In a word she is tenacious, and gets the job done.” – CHRIS E

A Killer Finale

Highlands Cashiers Players closes its milestone season with Deathtrap —a wickedly clever thriller where ambition, deception, and dark comedy collide.

Deathtrap Cast, L to R : Bet Hunter, Michael Lanzilotta (Director), Craig Eister, Burgain Hayes, and Todd Lipphardt

There’s a touch of murder in the air when Highlands Cashiers Players springs Deathtrap upon its willing Highlands Performing Arts Center audiences.

Ira Levin’s Deathtrap, the longest-running thriller in Broadway history, will take center stage at the Performing Arts Center. A masterful blend of suspense and dark comedy, Deathtrap promises to keep audiences guessing – and laughing – until the final curtain.

Directed by HCP veteran Michael Lanzilotta, Deathtrap follows the twisted tale of Sidney Bruhl, a oncerenowned playwright whose career has fizzled. When Sidney receives a brilliant new script from a former student, Clifford Anderson, he sees a chance to reclaim his fame. But rather than collaborate, Sidney plots to murder Clifford and steal the play – a “perfect thriller” titled Deathtrap. Add a psychic

neighbor with inconvenient visions, and the stage is set for a deliciously tangled web of deception.

“What attracted me to this show was how it depicts the depths we would go through to satisfy greed and pride,” says Lanzilotta. “The twists in this story will have the audience on the edge of their seats.”

April Getz, HCP President and apprentice director for the production, agrees. “Deathtrap is a perfect choice for community theater because of its small cast and single set,” she says. “And it’s ideal for November’s eerie chill.”

The production team includes Cathy Myers as stage manager and set designer, and Jayne Pleasants as line coach.

Showtimes are November 1 at 5:00 P.M., November 2 at 2:00 P.M., and the following weekend: November 6 and 7 at

7:00 P.M., November 8 at 5:00 P.M., and November 9 at 2:00 P.M.

Tickets are available at HighlandsCashiersPlayers.com or by calling the PAC box office at (828) 526-9047.

Deathtrap marks the final full-length show of HCP’s milestone season, but the celebration continues with a free Holiday Show on December 16, followed by a cake and champagne reception to toast 30 years of community theater magic.

by Luke Osteen

photo by Susan Renfro

Scan to learn more.

From Soldier to Storyteller

Philadelphia native Matthew Eberz, a finalist for the 2025 Storytrade Award for Best Mystery–Historical, blends fact and fiction drawn from his military and real-world experiences.

Matthew Eberz

Philadelphia native Matthew Eberz has always lived at the intersection of fact and fiction. His novels—The Solemn Vow, Lethal Data, and Farewell to Honor —draw from a lifetime of experiences spanning military service, executive leadership, and small-town real estate. Each book is threaded with details rooted in reality, then shaped by imagination into stories that feel authentic and compelling.

A Penn State graduate, Eberz served 17 years on active duty in the U.S. Army, retiring as a major. His career carried him across Germany, England, Chicago, Virginia, California, and North Carolina, culminating in his role as deputy director of the Army’s Artificial Intelligence Center at Fort Monroe. After leaving the military in 1992, he transitioned to civilian life as a technology executive before settling in Highlands, where he built a successful career as a real estate broker.

During his Army years, Eberz began

The Solemn Vow, a historical mystery inspired by fragments of real events. While researching World War I Medal of Honor recipient Audie Murphy and records of German prisoners of war at Fort Sheridan, Illinois, he uncovered inconsistencies in government reports and finances. “The numbers didn’t match –the amount of money earned versus what was reported,” Eberz recalls.

That spark of curiosity became a decade-long project weaving conspiracy, betrayal, and courage into a fictional narrative centered on his recurring protagonist, Sam Call. The novel explores a potential conspiracy between American officers and German prisoners trading money for freedom. Originally published in 2000, Eberz withdrew it from circulation, only republishing it recently with renewed confidence. That decision paid off: The Solemn Vow was named a finalist for the 2025 Storytrade Award for Best Mystery–Historical.

“I know it’s not the Pulitzer or the New

York Times Best Sellers List, but it’s nice to be recognized,” Eberz says with characteristic modesty.

“The cast of characters has grown with me,” he explains. “Sam begins in the Army, then moves into civilian investigations with colleagues. They’ve become a way for me to reimagine events that, in one way or another, I’ve lived through.”

For Eberz, a father of two daughters and grandfather of four, the reward lies not in accolades but creation itself. “Even if it doesn’t sell, I would still write and publish. It’s a special feeling to work on a novel for years, revising it repeatedly, and in the end hold something that tells a story and, hopefully, provides a moment of literary enjoyment.”

With his fourth novel, tentatively titled Guilty or Scapegoat, already in progress, Eberz continues to transform the facts of his life into fiction that resonates. The Solemn Vow is available on Amazon. by Marlene Osteen / photo by Susan Renfro

DINING Pages 106-131

Photo by Susan Renfro

Pizza Pies & Patio Vibes

With house-made dough, locally sourced ingredients, and inviting indoor and outdoor spaces, Slab Town Pizza offers a gourmet twist on the classic pie experience.

After a few days in New York City recently, where pizza spots seem as numerous as crosswalks, Slab Town Pizza was refreshing.

Although New York pizza is a favorite style for many people, including moi, primarily due to its basil and oreganoloaded sauce slathered on thin crust and topped with plenty of fresh mozzarella, the pizza “restaurants” in the great city are usually little more than crowded, loud, walk-up counters where patrons can grab a slice or two.

In sharp contrast, Slab Town Pizza not only consistently accomplishes quality pies with delectable house-made dough that, when cooked, is the right balance of

crispy on the bottom and a little chewy at the crust, but the venue is vast and inviting. Whether a family with little ones, a teenager hanging out with a friends or grandparents, or sports-fan gatherings, Slab Town offers various well-decorated spaces. Indoors, where customers order at a counter, are quieter booths, tables, and high-tops. A large covered patio has a long metal-topped seating space as well as tables and a stacked-stone fireplace. Venture outside and there is a patio with umbrella-equipped tables beside a lengthy artificial-turf space with picnic tables, chairs, and cornhole boards.

On a sunny, slightly crisp fall day, the outdoor patio beckoned and the smells of fresh-baked dough emanated from the

kitchen. Slab Town Pizza offers buildyour-own pizzas with six “sauces” and more than a dozen topping choices; but baking in the oven are calzones as well. For people who are overwhelmed by too many selections, the establishment has a few pizzas and calzones that have been planned out for them.

For example, “The Duke” has Italian sausage, pepperoni, bacon, mozzarella, ricotta, and red sauce; “Buffalo Chicken” is with chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, red and buffalo sauce, and a side of ranch.

My husband and I chose the “Pesto” pizza, which included tomatoes, large chunks of artichoke hearts, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and plenty of

scrumptious pesto made from fresh basil. It popped with hues of red and green, was dripping with the exact right amount of cheese and browned to perfection.

For customers not in the mood for pizza, they can choose a burger, grilled cheese, grilled chicken wrap, fried chicken sandwich, Italian sandwich, or braised meatball sandwich – plus, two pasta dishes are provided, one with Bolognese sauce and another with meatballs and marinara. And a regular starter is a roasted tomato basil soup.

Appetizers include spinach artichoke flatbread and jumbo chicken wings. Additionally, what impressed were the salads. It is not often that you can find creative and gourmet-leaning salads at a pizza joint. Besides the classic house, Greek, and Caesar, distinct salads were the Schrute Farms Beet and the Seasonal.

We chose the latter, but it was a tough decision. Presented was a culinary, crunchy delight – a packed bowl with mixed greens, fresh and dried berries, candied pecans, apples, and ricotta salata cheese, all topped with a subtly sweet strawberry balsamic vinaigrette.

Next time, I plan to gravitate toward the Schrute Farms Beet salad, due to its marrying of arugula, roasted beets, and goat cheese – some of my favorites.

Bonus: Not surprisingly, I learned that many of Slab Town’s ingredients are sourced locally or regionally.

Besides the food, Slab Town has a festive bar festooned with strings of white lights. Its centerpiece is a giant chalk board with a bit-screen television as its centerpiece. On the board, in various colors of chalk, are some of the drink offerings. The crisp fall day,

for me, called for a slightly tart berry cider, but Slab Town’s cocktail and beer offerings are numerous and everchanging. Many of the beers featured are from regional breweries.

After the fabulous and filling fresh food, dessert was a distant thought. That was, until we saw the hand-written sign announcing that house-made tiramisu was in the building! Even though Slab Town standard desserts of zeppoli, which are essentially little mini-powdered sugar doughnuts, and a chocolate-chunk cookie enticed, it was the tiramisu that we ordered and took home. Due the enormous size of the piece provided, we enjoyed those delicious layers of coffeesoaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and cocoa for several days. by Deena Bouknight photos by Susan Renfro and Mary Gillan Renfro

A Taste of the Season

Justin Burns’ Butternut Squash Gratin is a creamy, sage-infused side perfect for cozy holiday meals and elegant gatherings.

Justin Burns has long been a creative force in Plateau kitchens, but his newest venture with Andrea Schmitt, Moondance Market in Lake Toxaway, feels like a turning point. Together, they’ve created a space that is equal parts daring and refined, a place where comfort food meets polish and every detail carries intention.

Burns’ cooking has always had range, but at Moondance he seems especially energized, drawing on years of training and a finely tuned palate to create dishes that strike a balance between familiarity and surprise.

That sensibility carries into the recipe he shares here: Butternut Squash Gratin. This gratin exemplifies Burns’ approach – a classic technique elevated with care and precision. The dish arrives at the table creamy and rich, with paper-thin slices of squash layered with sweet onions and bathed in a sage-scented custard.

“I love the flavor profile of butternut squash with sage and Gruyère,” says Burns. “The gratin has become a favorite among my family and friends because the flavors hit familiar notes but are presented in such a comforting way.”

It’s the kind of side that instantly belongs on the holiday table – familiar enough to feel like tradition yet polished enough

to make guests sit up and take notice. And for the cook, it’s a creative roasted squash dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to serve, offering plenty of oomph without fuss.

Elegant enough for company, comforting enough for seconds, and versatile in presentation – it can be spooned out rustic and creamy for family gatherings or cut into neat squares for a more refined Thanksgiving spread. Picture it alongside turkey and dressing at a holiday table or as part of a festive mountain gathering with friends: warm, seasonal, and deeply tied to the flavors of fall.

Butternut Squash Gratin

Recipe by Justin Burns, Moondance

Ingredients

• 3 lbs butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and sliced (use a mandolin if possible for uniformity)

• 1 medium white onion, thinly sliced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup whole or 2% milk

• 1 tsp dried sage (or 2 tsp fresh, chopped)

• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Justin Burns

• 2 tsp salt

• 1 garlic clove, halved

• 1 tbsp softened butter

• Optional: ½ cup grated Gruyère cheese

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F.

1. In a large bowl, whisk together cream, milk, sage, pepper, and salt. Taste to ensure it’s slightly salty—this seasons the squash as it cooks.

2. Rub a 10 x 8-inch baking dish with the cut sides of the garlic clove, then coat with butter.

3. Toss the sliced squash in the cream mixture.

4. Layer squash and onions alternately in the prepared dish, pouring a little of the cream mixture between layers. If using, scatter Gruyère throughout the layers.

5. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until the top is golden and a knife slides easily through the squash.

6. Rest a few minutes before serving.

Serving Options

• For a rustic style, serve hot straight from the dish in creamy spoonfuls—the kind of generous serving that makes a family table feel abundant.

• For clean slices, cool the gratin completely, press with a weighted pan in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or overnight), and cut into neat squares. Reheat before serving. Reserve any pressed-off liquid as a flavorful base for soup—a small holiday gift to yourself for later in the week.

Wine Note

For Burns, the right wine completes the dish. “I like a white with some weight to it—something that stands up to the richness without drowning it,” he says. “A white Burgundy is beautiful here, with its citrus and subtle oak pulling out the sweetness of the squash. A Rhône-style blend also works well, because the herbal notes play right into the sage. Either way, the pairing takes the gratin from simple side dish to centerpiece.”

This is Burns in a dish: rooted in tradition, lifted with detail, and ready to make the mountain holidays taste a little brighter. moondance-market.com.

by Marlene Osteen

by Mary Gillan Renfro

photos

Thanksgiving,Made Easy

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

This Thanksgiving why not focus on enjoying the big day without the stress and mess of cooking? There are numerous options on the Plateau to help with your meal. You can find what you’re looking for from entire meals to desserts and sides, but the key is planning and calling ahead.

Take Out Highlands

Dusty Rhodes Superette: Sides and desserts will be available in their preprepared cases. Dusty’s will be closed Thanksgiving. (828) 526-2762

Highlands Smokehouse: Place your orders now and you can pick up your items on Wednesday, November 26. (828) 526-3554

Kettlerock Bakery: Place your orders now for your favorite sides and you can pick up on Wednesday, November 26. (828) 200-5704

Mountain Fresh Grocery: Call ahead

to reserve your complete Thanksgiving dinner. Pick up day before or prearranged time on Thanksgiving Day. (828) 526-2400

Rosewood Market: Call ahead to reserve your turkey, main dishes, sides, and desserts. Turkey orders must be placed by Friday, November 7. Pick up by Wednesday, 10:00 A.M. or 4:00 P.M. November 26. (828) 526-0383

The Kitchen Carryaway: Orders for sides and desserts may be placed by November 15. Pick up by Wednesday, November 26. (828) 526-2110

Whole Life Market: Pre order your non-gmo or organic turkey ready for your Thanksgiving oven. (828) 526-5999

Take Out Cashiers

Duck Hawk Provisions: Whole smoked 16–20 lb turkey, buttermilk and garlic mashed potatoes, Southern green bean casserole, cornbread stuffing with apple-

smoked bacon, quart of turkey gravy, 8 dinner rolls. Pick up Wednesday, November 26. duckhawkprovisions.com

Happs Place: Call the week ahead to order your take-and-bake complete Thanksgiving meal. Pick everything up on Tuesday or Wednesday, November 25 and 26. Glenville (828) 743-5700

Moondance Market & Wine Bar: Email ahead for holiday side dishes and family dinners to go. events@ moondance-market.com. Lake Toxaway

The Village Pantry: Offering a variety of traditional sides along with Oyster Dressing and Butternut Squash Ravioli. Order by Wednesday, November 20. Pick up Tuesday, November 25 (828) 547-0345

Dining on the Plateau

Call ahead to confirm hours and secure reservations.

Four65 Woodfire Bistro and Bar: Highlands, Open 4:00 - 9:00 P.M.

(828) 787-2990

Greystone Inn: Lake Toxaway, Dinner offered from 12:00 to 5:00 P.M. (828) 966-4700

Highlands Supper Club: Highlands, Seatings offered from 2:00 to 6:00 P.M thehighlandssupperclub.com

Highlander Mountain House: Highlands, Seatings offered from 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M highlandermountainhouse.com

Highlands Burrito: Highlands, Open 11:00 A.M.-3:00 P.M. (828) 526-9313

Hummingbird Lounge: Highlands, (828) 787-2525

Madison’s Restaurant: Highlands, Open 12:00-6:00 P.M. Reservations Required. (828) 787-2525

On The Verandah: Highlands, Serving Thanksgiving

Dinner from 11:00 P.M. until 5:00 P.M. (828) 526-2338.

Oak Steakhouse: Highlands, Serving a Thanksgiving buffet from 11:00 A.M. until 4:30 P.M. (828) 526-4008.

Beyond the Pour

From cellar dinners to curated seminars, these wine-focused gatherings during Highlands Food & Wine Festival bring guests closer to the stories behind the bottles—where conversation flows, meals are crafted with intention, and every sip carries meaning.

The Highlands Food & Wine Festival may be known for its big stages and headliner tastings, but some of the festival’s most memorable moments happen away from the spotlight. Across Highlands, intimate dinners, tastings, and seminars invite guests to pull up a chair with winemakers, hear the stories behind the bottles, and savor meals crafted by chefs who understand how to let the wine shine. Here’s the lineup of wine-focused events outside the regular schedule.

Monday, November 10

Foragers, Farmers, and Friends at High Country Wine & Provisions 6:00 P.M.

Chef Johannes Klapdohr of The Library

Kitchen + Bar creates a four-course menu elevated with foie gras, white truffles, and caviar, paired to eight Davis Family Vineyard wines. Cooper and Guy Davis pour selections straight from their cellar for an indulgent evening that sets the tone for the week.

$260 + tax/gratuity highcountrywineprovisions.com

Thursday–Saturday, November 13–15

Tuscany Wine Tastings at Highlands Fine Art & Estate Jewelry Wine Shop 12:00–4:00 P.M.

Enjoy complimentary tastings of Tuscan wines while browsing fine art and jewelry. These afternoon sessions offer a cultured pause between the bustle of

festival events.

highlandsfineart.com | (828) 526-0656

Friday, November 14

Fourth Annual Harvest Lunch at Highlands Wine Shoppe 12:00–4:00 P.M.

Chef Ken Naron serves a harvestinspired feast that bridges Old and New World wines with bold Louisiana warmth. For those seeking something rare, a private cellar tasting with Napa winemaker Chris Carpenter adds an exclusive layer.

$250 + tax/gratuity highlandswineshoppe.com

Barrett Family Wine Dinner at On the Verandah | 6:00 P.M.

Remi Barrett, heir to one of Napa’s most storied families, hosts an evening of storytelling and pours. Executive Chef Andrew Figel’s menu weaves with Barrett wines to create a dinner that feels like sitting inside California’s vinous history.

$250 + tax/gratuity | Tickets: Resy

Farm Harvest Dinner & Barn Dance at Old Edwards Inn | 6:00 P.M.

Celebrate the region’s bounty with Sunburst Trout, Anson Mills grains, and live music from the Back Porch Orchestra. Equal parts feast and festival, this is Highlands hospitality at its most down-to-earth.

$270 + tax/gratuity oldedwardshospitality.com

Cinder & Cellar Wine Dinner at Flat Mountain Farm | 6:00 P.M.

Under the open sky, champagne and caviar lead into Chef Santiago Guzzetti’s fire-inspired, Frenchinflected menu. Burgundy and

Champagne from the Boisset Collection round out a night that’s as indulgent as it is unforgettable.

$450 + tax/gratuity flatmountainfarm.com

Saturday, November 15

Oakville Legacy & Meyer Family Cellars Seminar at Highlands Wine Shoppe | 1:30–3:30 P.M.

Matt Meyer pours rare Cabernets from deep within his family cellar, offering guests a taste of Silver Oak lineage and Oakville heritage in an intimate seminar.

$165 | highlandswineshoppe.com

“Tour de France” Seminar at Highlands Wine Shoppe | 4:30–6:30 P.M.

Master Sommelier and Master of Wine Eric Hemer guides guests across France’s great wine regions, from Champagne to Bordeaux. His insight and humor make this whirlwind tasting both approachable and unforgettable.

$175 + tax/gratuity highlandswineshoppe.com

Brochelle Wine Dinner at On the Verandah | 6:00 P.M. Paso Robles winemaker Brock Waterman brings his soulful, dryfarmed wines to Highlands for a dinner of rich pours and bold pairings. Chef Andrew Figel’s cuisine amplifies the story of terroir in every glass.

$250 + tax/gratuity | Tickets: Resy Oyster Roast at Highlander Mountain House | 3:00 P.M.

Head to the HMH for a fall oyster roast, with oysters from Pelican Oyster Company. The ticket includes all you can shuck oysters, your first beer from Munkle Brewing, and live bluegrass on the porch from Flat Bridge String Band.

$60 + tax/gratuity | Tickets: Resy

by Marlene Osteen

The Immigrant Feast

Since immigration is on everyone’s minds these days, it’s worth remembering that Thanksgiving itself is, at its heart, an immigrant feast — and the wines we pour tell that story as vividly as the food on the table.

Picture this: Maria layers her grandmother’s chorizo stuffing into the turkey while her neighbor Klaus preps sauerkraut dressing. Down the street, the Johnsons roast corn, beans, and squash — the “three sisters” of Native tradition — as their Cherokee greatgrandmother taught them. A few blocks over, the Rossis simmer marinara for Thanksgiving lasagna, while the Wilsons polish off an apple pie recipe brought to the New World centuries ago.

In another kitchen, the Dubois family plates mushroom and goat cheese toasts, a nod to their French roots,

while fingerling potatoes sizzle in duck fat. Each kitchen tells a different story, together creating the patchwork celebration of gratitude that defines the American table.

That patchwork shines even brighter in the glass. Pairing Indigenous staples — corn, beans, and squash — with Norton, America’s oldest native grape, completes a full circle: its jammy richness complements roasted squash, while earthy undertones echo corn’s sweetness and beans’ heartiness. Stonewall Creek Vineyard in Tiger, Georgia, produces a Norton under its Standing Deer label that captures this uniquely American spirit.

Klaus’s sauerkraut stuffing tells a German story, paired with a crisp Rhine Riesling like Dr. Loosen Blue Slate Kabinett, whose bright acidity dances alongside cabbage. Maria’s smoky

chorizo stuffing calls for bold Spanish Tempranillo, such as La Rioja Alta Viña Alberdi Reserva, with cherry and leather notes rising to meet the spice.

For the pasta-loving Rossis, Italian Sangiovese bridges tomato sauce and cranberry alike. Try Avignonesi Rosso di Montepulciano or Felsina Chianti Classico — both offer cherry brightness and balance.

And for the Dubois mushroom toasts or duck-fat potatoes? A French Gamay is the holiday MVP. Beaujolais, especially a Cru like Morgon or Fleurie, is light enough for turkey yet earthy enough for mushrooms. Château Thivin Côte de Brouilly delivers bright fruit and savory depth in one bottle.

by Marlene Osteen

A Taste of Cashiers

Three decades in, Cashiers Farmers Market is more than a place to shop—it’s a place to gather, savor, and stay awhile.

It was Florida’s sweltering summers that drove Robin and Tom Crawford north in 1995, when they set up a humble produce stand under a tent behind the Exxon station in Cashiers.

One summer later, the crowds demanded more space, and by 1997 the Crawfords had built a permanent home: Cashiers Farmers Market. Over the years, the building stretched in every direction – upstairs, basement, back and side – until there was nowhere left to expand.

Those early days offered little more than crates of produce and a single block of hoop cheese.

Today, the market has become a showcase of the region’s best: local meats from Brasstown and Providence Farms, Carolina trout, seafood delivered five days a week, and a cheese case that tempts even the most disciplined shopper. At the bakery counter, pies and cookies share space with 800 loaves of bread each week from Tracy at Lotsa Loaves – a delivery that has become part of the town’s rhythm.

In 2006, the Crawfords opened On the Side, their barbecue kitchen – and so much more.

What began as a humble lunch counter has turned into a destination, where pork shoulders and briskets spend hours over the smoke before meeting house-made coleslaw, potato salad, and creamy mac ‘n cheese. But it doesn’t stop at barbecue. Wednesdays and Fridays have become weekly rituals: fried chicken one day, burgers the next. Beginning with the Thanksgiving opening, On the Side will stay open through the end of December. Hours vary, so the website is the surest guide.

Prepared foods are now one of the market’s quiet strengths. Grab-and-go casseroles, soups, and sides are tucked into coolers, many made from “perfectly imperfect” produce that finds new life as hearty comfort food. For families juggling guests or vacationers on the run, it’s a dependable way to put dinner on the table without fuss.

Miranda, Robin’s daughter, moved to Cashiers in 2004, and today she and her husband Josh manage the market, carrying forward the family’s vision while adding their own touches. A business once managed by four now requires twenty employees during the height of summer. And when the market rests in winter, Josh shifts gears to run Cashiers Firewood, delivering seasoned wood to keep mountain cabins warm.

Left to Right: Josh Crawford, Miranda Crawford, Robin Crawford, and Tom Crawford

And then there are the golden retrievers. From the very beginning, the Crawfords have always had one – or two, or five -- on hand. Listed on the website with titles like “Head Greeter,” “Lime Thief,” and “Con Artist/Head Beggar,” these dogs greet customers, charm children, and have inspired their own line of shirts and sweatshirts. Some people visit just to see them, and the Crawfords understand.

Though the main season runs April through October, November brings a cherished encore. Beginning November 19, the market reopens for ten days, just in time for Thanksgiving. Smoked turkeys, fresh pies, and classic sides fill the shelves, ready for the holiday table. Pre-orders are required, with details posted online.

Three decades on, Cashiers Farmers Market has become a family-run institution that has grown with its town, expanded its shelves with care, and kept its welcome easy. From those modest beginnings under a tent behind a gas station, the Crawfords have created something now inextricably linked with Cashiers itself – a place so inviting and engaging that it’s likely drawn more than a few visitors back as seasonal or year-round residents.

by Marlene Osteen

Plateau Dining Guide

Restaurants of the Highlands Cashiers Plateau

HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS

4118

Don Leon’s 462 Dillard Roads (828) 482-1513

Dusty’s 493 Dillard Road (828) 526-2762

Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar

465 Main Street (828) 787-2990

Highlands Smokehouse 595 Franklin Road (828) 526-3554

Highlands Supper Club 96 Log Cabin Lane (828) 482-1578

Hummingbird Lounge 455 Main Street Highlands, NC (828) 787-2525

The Kitchen CarryAway & Catering 350 S. Fifth Street (828) 526-2110

Lakeside Restaurant Smallwood Avenue (828) 526-9419

Los Vaqueros 30 Dillard Road (828) 482-7040

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

CASHIERS AREA RESTAURANTS

Place 5914 Highway 107, Glenville (828) 743-5700

Moondance

220 Greystone Lane, Lake Toxaway (828) 966-4700

13481 Rosman Hwy #3, Lake Toxaway

Osteria del Monte 19131 Rosman Hwy., Sapphire (828) 883-2551

CASHIERS, NC

Chile Loco - (828) 743-1160

Cornucopia Restaurant - (828) 743-3750

El Manzanillo - (828) 743-5522

Hotel Cashiers - (828) 743-7706

Native Prime Provisions (828) 743-3743

Subway - (828) 743-1300

Ugly Dog - (828) 743-3000

Village Pantry - (828) 547-0345

Whiteside Brewing Company - (828) 743-6000

GLENVILLE, NC

The Local - (828) 743-7778

SCALY, NC

Magliocca’s Ristorante - (828) 526-0803

HIGHLANDS,

NC

Asia House - (828) 787-1680

Black Bear Cafe - (828) 482-7020

The Blue Bike Cafe - (828) 526-9922

Bryson’s Deli - (828) 526-3775

Divine South Baking Company - (828) 421-2042

Highlands Tavern - (828) 526-9002

Madison’s Restaurant - (828) 787-2525

Mountain Fresh - (828) 526-2400

The Ruffed Grouse - (828) 526-2590

Secret Garden - (828) 305-7509

Spinx Highlands - (828) 526-4191

Stubbon Buddha - (828) 482-4822

The Stubborn Bull - (828) 200-0813

Subway - (828) 526-1706

Wild Thyme Gourmet - (828) 526-4035

LAKE TOXAWAY, NC

Grand Olde Station - (828) 966-4242

Los Vaqueros - (828) 966-7662

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

Villa Amato (828) 885-7700

SAPPHIRE, NC

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

Jim’s Place at Sapphire Country Store - (828) 966-4011

Library Kitchen + Bar (828) 743-5512

Mica’s Restaurant - (828) 743-5740

Panthertown Cafe - (828) 862-3663

Slopeside Tavern - (828) 743-8655

Plateau Lodging Guide

Accommodations on the Highlands Cashiers Plateau

BREVARD, NC:

Meraki Escape - (828) 463-7440

CASHIERS, NC:

High Hampton Resort - (800) 648-4252

Hotel Cashiers - (828) 743-7706

The Lakehouse - (904) 753-0247

Landmark Vacation Rentals- (877) 926-1780

Mountain Vacation Rentals - (828) 743-0258

The Orchard Guest Cottage - (828) 743-7614

Pebble Creek Village - (828) 743-0623

Silver Creek

Vacation Rentals - (828) 743-1999

The Wells HotelA Cashiers Experience - (828) 761-6289

FRANKLIN, NC:

Southern Belles

Glamping - (828) 371-9890

GLENVILLE, NC:

Innisfree Bed & Breakfast - (828) 743-2946

Mountain Lake Rentals - (828) 743-6875

Prime Property Rentals - (828) 743-3482

HIGHLANDS, NC:

200 Main - (855) 271-2809

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

Fairview House - (866) 526-8008

Half Mile Farm - (855) 271-7246

High Camp - (828) 482-5115

Highlander Mountain House - (828) 526-2590

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

Highlands Inn - (828) 526-9380

Highlands Resort Rentals - (828) 526-5839

The Inn at Mill Creek - 828-526-9999

Lotts of Sky - (404) 395-4000

Lullwater House - (423) 488-2799

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

Outpost Inn (828) 482-7736

Park on Main - (800) 221-5078

Ray’s Roost - (678) 534-6870

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

Rockwood Lodge - (828) 526-8919

Silver Creek Vacation Rentals - (828) 526-2999

Trailborn Highlands (828) 482-1581

Valentine Manor - (561) 613-1496

Whiteside Cove Cottages - (828) 526-2222

SAPPHIRE, NC:

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

Foxhunt at Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-7667

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

Mt Toxaway Lodge & Motel - (828) 966-4582

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

Whispering Falls - (352) 470-4085

Woods at Buc - (770) 714-9211

SCALY MOUNTAIN, NC:

Fire Mountain Resort & Spa - (800) 775-4446

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

LAKE TOXAWAY, NC:

Cabins at Seven Foxes - (828) 877-6333

Earthshine Lodge - (828) 862-4207

Greystone Inn - (828) 966-4700

Lake Toxaway

Realty Company - (828) 508-9141

SHOPPING Pages 138-141

Photo by Susan Renfro

SUEDE AND SWAGGER

Soft suede meets bold style in this knee-high boot with cozy fleece lining and a sleek side zip. Designed for chilly days and standout looks—comfort never looked so confident.

Jeffrey Campbell Boots | $ 250

Martha Anne’s | Highlands

Plateau Picks

RADIANT HAIR ESSENTIALS

Elevate your hair care routine with Surface’s colorsafe, smoothing formulas for vibrant, healthy locks.

Trinity Color Care Shampoo $ 33 | Trinity Color Care Conditioner $ 33

Theory Finishing Spray $ 33 | Surface Bliss Smoothing Cream $ 23

Creative Concepts Salon | Highlands

SHIELDED IN STYLE

Bold, elegant, and rooted in faith—the Shield of Faith Collection is more than jewelry. Each piece is a wearable reminder to walk with strength, grace, and purpose through every season.

Shield of Faith Collection

Ring $118 | Earrings $198 | Bangle Bracelet $ 244

Gracewear Collection | Cashiers

A few of our favorite things

TRAVEL DUO

Travel feels like a breeze with this featherlight luggage set—simply glide, pack, and go! Even with its lightas-air feel, this set is tough enough to handle every adventure that comes its way. Crafted by Bric’s, an Italian brand backed by a lifetime guarantee, it’s quality you can trust for every takeoff and touchdown.

Bric’s X-Collection

21” Carry On Spinner $ 228 .50 | Opera Bag $148 .50 Cashiers Emporium | Cashiers

SPIRIT OF THE

SEASON

Celebrate the holidays with Highlands’ favorite tradition— Mountain Theatre Company’s Spirit of the Season . This dazzling musical revue blends festive classics, fresh arrangements, and a touch of theatrical magic. Live on stage at the Highlands Performing Arts Center December 5 - 21. mountaintheatre.com

Spirit of the Season Tickets | $ 58- $ 70ea Mountain Theatre Company | Highlands

DIP AND DELIGHT

Give the gift of cozy connection. This elegant fondue set turns any evening into a shared experience—perfect for holiday hosting, winter nights, or thoughtful gifting.

Swissmar 11-Piece Fondue Set | $ 99.92

One Wicker Cheese Co. | Highlands

NATURE’S ARTISTRY

Discover the enchanting beauty of natural Watermelon Tourmaline, where soft pink fades into serene green in a dazzling display of nature’s artistry. Set in radiant 14k gold, this pendant and earring set brings vibrant color and timeless elegance to elevate any outfit effortlessly.

Pendent Necklace $1,964 | Earrings $ 462 Jackson Hole Gem Mine | Highlands

TWELVE DIVINE MONTHS

Experience the seasons of Western North Carolina through Michele Schwartz’s 2026 Divine Landscapes calendar. Each month features a stunning image that captures the region’s natural beauty— perfect for gifting and enjoying all year long. 2026 Michele Schwartz Photography Calendar | $ 25 Calders Coffee Cafe | Highlands

Timeless Finds, Seasonal Savings

Celebrate the season with Rusticks’ annual sale, November 28–29, and explore their newly expanded Antique Barn, filled with treasures from across England.

Please join Rusticks for their Annual After Thanksgiving Day Sale. The annual sale will be held Friday and Saturday, November 28-29, 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. at 32 Canoe Point, Cashiers.

New this year: English Antiques in their new Antique Barn storefront. Rusticks owner and interior designer Stacie Platt travelled all over England to curate an exclusive collections of antiques for the new store. Housed in their newly

renovated and expanded Rusticks Barn is a great collection of timeless pieces to make every home unique.

Rusticks and Rusticks Antique Barn will have markdowns from 30- to 50-percent off storewide, while some items will have even larger markdowns! This is the sale of the year if you are looking for a complete home remodel or just a few pieces to brighten up your home.

Winter Hours and Appointments: Rusticks will be closed for the season

after the sale and will reopen late March 2026. They are available for design services and to schedule an appointment to come into the store. Please call and leave a message at (828) 743-3172 ext. 1 or email sales@rusticks.com.

From everyone at Rusticks, thank you for another amazing season. They’re wishing you a wonderful and joyful holiday season and look forward to seeing everyone next year.

photos by Mary Gillan Renfro

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WEST END

1. On The Verandah Restaurant

2. Highlands Smokehouse

3. High Country Wine & Provisions

4. Highlands Good Food

5. The Bascom: Center for the Visual Arts

6. The Bascom Shop

7. The Dave Drake Ceramic Barn at The Bascom

SOUTH END

22. Trailborn Highlands

23. Highlands Supper Club

25. 4118 Kitchen & Bar

27. Dauntless Printing

37. Lupoli Construction

38. Howard Hanna Allen Tate/ Pat Allen Realty Group

39. Highlands Decorating Center

44. Unfurl Wellness Spa

45. Don Leon’s

46. Dusty’s

48. ACP Home Interiors

50. The Summer House

51. Nancy’s Fancys/The Exchange

59. Head Innovations

MAIN STREET

101. Main Street Nursery

102. Rosewood Market

104. Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center

106. Los Vaqueros

121. Highlands Wine Shoppe

123. The Park on Main Hotel

128. Primary Kitchen + Bar

134. The Southern Way

136. Dutchmans

141. Main Street Gifts

146. Wit’s End Shoppe

147. Calders Coffee Cafe

148. Highlands Fine Art & Estate Jewelry + Wine Shop

153. Allison Diane Clothing

158. C. Orrico

160. TJ Bailey for Men

163. Spoiled Rotten

166. Annawear

167. The Christmas Tree

169. Country Club Properties

170. Highlands Pizza Place

180. Bijou

185. Ristorante Paoletti

187. The Dry Sink

191. Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Meadows Mountain Realty

195. Old Edwards Inn

196. Madison’s Restaurant

197. The Wine Garden

198. Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar

203. Country Club Properties

208. Highland Hiker Shoes

210. Creative Concepts Salon

211. Highland Hiker

WRIGHT SQUARE on MAIN

(Factoid: Named after Whiteside hero)

114. Dead Artists Gallery

115. The Baked Bunny

117. Country Club Properties, Wright Square Office

SPRING VILLAGE

405. McCulley’s

406. Brookings

VILLAGE PARK

611. ACP Home Interiors

613. Cleaveland Realty

619. Christie’s Internatonal Real Estate

Highlands Cashiers

ON

THE HILL

303. Mirror Lake Antiques

305. Jeanie Edwards Fine Art

306. Acorns

308. Highlands Burrito

310. McCulley’s

311. Martha Anne’s on the Hill

312. The Ugly Dog Public House

313. Old Edwards Inn

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

319. Lakeside Restaurant

CAROLINA VILLAGE

701. Mountain Life Properties

704. Creekside Village: - Suncoast Equity Management

705. Mountain Construction Engineering

706. Western Carolina Brew & Wine

709. Wayah Insurance

710. The High Dive

NORTH END

801. Green Mountain Builders

807. Highlands Recreation Park & Civic Center

808. Whole Life Market

815. Highlands Cashiers Players

815. Highlands Performing Arts Center

815. Mountain Theatre Company

816. Fairview House

OUT 64 WEST

➡ Jackson Hole Gem Mine

OUT NC 106

➡ Highlands Chiropractic & Wellness

➡ Peak Experience

➡ Allan Dearth and Sons Generators

➡ Steve Holt Landscaping

➡ The Vineyard at High Holly

OUT 64 EAST

➡ Black Rock Design Build

➡ Berkshire Hathaway

Homes Services

Meadows Mountain Realty

➡ WHLC

➡ Highlands Lawn & Garden

➡ Highlands Automotive

➡ Bryson’s Grading & Paving

➡ Rejuvenate Medical Spa

➡ Reclamations

➡ Howard Hanna Allen Tate/ Pat Allen Realty Group

➡ Highlands Dermatology

➡ Roman’s Roofing

➡ Mission –

Highlands-Cashiers Hospital

VISIT FRANKLIN

➡ The Attic Antiques

➡ Clark & Co

Hardscape Supply

➡ Garcia Paint Expert

➡ Uptown Gallery

➡ Whistle Stop Antiques

VISIT CLAYTON

➡ Butler Galleries

➡ Clayton Family Medicine

➡ Clayton Merchants

Business Association

➡ Live Edge Exotic Wood

➡ Pro Turf

➡ Willow Valley RV Resort

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

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

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NORTH

107

2. Zookeeper Bistro

6. Slab Town Pizza

20. Mountain Mermaid

21. Sashay Around Ladies Boutique

THE

SHOPS AT CASHIERS COMMONS

27. Bird Barn & Garden

28. Cashiers Kitchen Co.

29. Dr. Anita, Medical Aesthetics

30. Bombshell Hair Boutique

31. The Watershed Shoppe

33. Zoller Hardware

AT THE CROSSROADS

36. Buck’s Coffee Cafe

39. Cashiers Farmers Market

41. Highland Hiker

CHESTNUT SQUARE

42. Mountain Lux Real Estate

47. Lehotsky & Sons, Builders

54. Mountain Home Consignments

55. Fusion Yoga & Wellness

55. The Bungalow Boutique

59. Las Margaritas

EAST 64

63. Alexander Gardens: - Victoria’s Closet

- Victoria’s Closet Shoes & Purses

- Vic’s for Men

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

73. Blue Ridge Bedding

74. Carolina Rustic Furniture

79. Jennings Builders Supply

VILLAGE WALK

80. A-List Antiques

80. Josephine’s Emporium

80. Laura Moser Art

82. The Village Hound

84. Village Pantry

85. Children’s Edit

86. Nora & Co.

89. Nearly New Furniture Consignment

90. Gracewear Boutique

SOUTH 107

102. TJ Bailey’s for Men

107. Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Meadows Mountain Realty

110. McCulley’s

111. Rusticks

112. Vivianne Metzger Antiques

113. Brookings Fly Shop & Cashiers Village Outfitters

115. Chestnut Cove

116. Florida Trust Wealth Management

120. Cashiers Valley Real Estate

121. Robin’s Nest

123. Caliber Fine Properties

126. David Harley MD

128. Mountainworks Custom Home Design LTD.

130. The Cashiers Store

131. Daniels Communities - Cashiers Lake

136. Cashiers Sotheby’s International RealtyThe McKee Group

137. Bounds Cave Rug Gallery

138. The Orchard Restaurant, Events Barn & Guest Cottage

THE VILLAGE GREEN

142. Village Green Commons

143. The Village Green

WEST 64

145. Edgewood Antiques

146. Shoppes On The Green: - Sugar Creek Custom Cabinets

154. Duck Hawk Provisions

155. Cashiers Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center

156. Creekside: - Cashiers Celtic Table

159. B.H, Graning Landscaping

173. Betsy Paul Properties

176. Lenz Gifts

DOWN 107 NORTH

➡ Bazaar Barn

DOWN 107 SOUTH

➡ Silver Run Reserve

VISIT GLENVILLE

➡ Crawford Construction

➡ Happs Place

VISIT LAKE TOXAWAY

➡ The Greystone Inn

➡ Headwaters Outfitters

➡ Killer Bees Honey

➡ Lake Toxaway Company

➡ Los Vaqueros

➡ Moondance Kitchen

➡ Mountain Construction Engineering

➡ Village at Longclif

VISIT SAPPHIRE :

➡ Burlingame

➡ Casa Amigos Bar and Grill

➡ Osteria del Monte

➡ Sapphire Mobile Massage

➡ Sapphire Valley Real Estate

VISIT SYLVA :

➡ Riverstone Development Group

➡ Riverstone Pools & Spas

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

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

Pages 150-151

Photo by Susan Renfro

Tour the Town

As Highlands celebrates its 150th anniversary, the Highlands Historical Society invites you to explore the town’s rich past through a new audio tour—featuring seventeen landmark buildings, including the storied site of Cleaveland’s Grocery.

The former Cleaveland’s Grocery is just one of seventeen buildings on a new audio tour of the Town of Highlands created by the Highlands Historical Society to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the founding of Highlands.

William B. Cleaveland is regarded as one of Highlands’ most important pioneers. He arrived in Highlands from Bridgeport, Connecticut, in 1881 after doctors recommended mountain air as a treatment for his breathing troubles. He and his family were some of the first settlers in Highlands, which had only recently been founded in 1875. He constructed a new building on Main Street where Spartina is currently located in 1885 in which he ran a highly successful grocery store.

Cleaveland and his wife, Ida Estelle “Stell” Cleaveland, lived at the McGuire House on 4th Street before buying the land directly across Main Street where there is now a grassy knoll shaded by

a giant maple just beyond the Loafers Bench. A one-and-a-half-story multigabled house, including a wrap-around porch, was built and finished in 1888.

However, William B. Cleaveland would not live long enough to fully enjoy his newly built structure, as he died in 1893 from pneumonia, leaving behind Stell and seven children. Estelle lived in the house and maintained its upkeep until the grocer Harvey Talley bought the property and moved in during the mid-1940s.

One of the Cleaveland’s sons, Will, became a renowned contractor who built many of the structures that you now see in downtown Highlands.

Unfortunately, the Cleaveland home became neglected and deteriorated with time and was recently torn down. When he died, Cleaveland also left behind his acclaimed rock and Native American relics collection which Will

donated in 1927 to help establish the Highlands Museum, known now as the Highlands Biological Station and Nature Center. The collection consisted of over 2,500 artifacts, including beautifully carved arrow heads, pottery etched with Cherokee History, primitive peace pipes and tomahawks. Many of the relics were acquired by Cleaveland in exchange for groceries at his store.

The Loafer’s Bench was commissioned by Ralph deVille in 1974 to replace the six loafer’s benches that Will Cleaveland had built there in 1922. The red Torii Gate, on the property behind the bench was made by Ron Weston in honor of deVille after his death, signifying entrance onto sacred ground. Over the years many a resident or visitor has relaxed peacefully on the Loafer’s Bench beneath the broad-shouldered maple which formerly fronted the Cleaveland family home.

Cleaveland’s Grocery was among the

first of several establishments that sold groceries and general goods from the building in the late 1800’s. After Cleaveland’s death, the grocery changed hands to W. T. “Billy” Potts in 1902, who ran it until Charlie Wright, now famous for the rescue on Whiteside Mountain, turned it into a general merchandise store in 1914. Charlie’s slogan and advertisement was, “Come and See us Any Time and You’ll Buy Your Clothes Here All the Time!”

The site changed hands again in 1920, when Fred Edwards occupied the building with his very popular grocery store and sold merchandise there for 30 years, rivaling the Potts Brothers store next door. Even in the winter the big potbellied stove glowed for old-timers who sat with their backs to it, warming themselves as they told stories and shared local gossip, hound dogs asleep at their feet.

Steve Potts converted the grocery into

his equally popular Steve’s Country Store in 1952. By 1986 the building was the site of Ann Jacob Gallery, the oldest gallery in the Southeast, and today it is occupied by Spartina 449. For almost 150 years, many a satisfied customer walked out of the doors of the old building. In many cases, their spouse awaited them on the Loafer’s Bench directly across the street.

You can learn more about this building and the sixteen others on the audio tour at any time of year. Maps are available at the Highlands Historical Village, the Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center or at the HHS website. The Village is open on Thursdays through Saturdays from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. and on Sundays from 1:00 to 4:00 P.M. through November 16. Admission is free. Visit highlandshistory.com for more information.

by Tracy Foor, Highlands Historical Society

LIFESTYLES & WELLNESS

Photo by Greg Clarkson

Rooted & Reimagined

Built on the bones of a 1980s ranch and overlooking the Cullasaja River, this Highlands home blends organic elegance with bold design. From floating stone walkways to glass-walled serenity, every detail reflects Black Rock’s signature artistry and vision.

The inspiration for this home came from the original 1980s ranch that occupied this site. It became so much more than that as we spent time in this very special nook of Highlands overlooking the river. The present house rests on the original footprint and foundation of that little ranch. Modifications were made, for example, the primary bath was extended forward and the kitchen extended back to gain the river view.

The “Black Rock Look” began developing in 2014 when Gregg McLain joined as Design Lead. When this property was acquired, McLain and Kevin Bradley, owner of Black Rock, discussed the aesthetic of this “remodel.” We decided to create something unusual and extraordinary—glamorous and organic. We wanted the house enveloped by nature and vice versa, showing our best in creativity,

vision, and workmanship. Thus began collaboration of Black Rock’s talented designers and craftspeople.

The floating stone walkway summons you to the entry amid specimen plantings that embrace and soften the strong, linear structure, using contemporary metal shed roofing, refined wood soffits, and porcelain wall cladding. This is just the beginning of the myriad interesting elements making this a unique gem. Upon entering through the large glass door, the space opens to a soaring 25-foot ceiling and draws you to a glass wall inviting nature in.

You now see subtle focal points characterizing this open plan. To the right, abundant sunshine dances through double corrugated glass and walnut doors opening to the Primary Suite. To the left, a full-height walnut wall

integrates organic grasscloth wallcovering accented with shimmering metallic leaf in geometric panels reminiscent of Mid-Century architecture.

Directly ahead is the sophisticated, minimalistic Gourmet Kitchen with German-engineered Meile appliances.

The “handless” series lends simplicity and appeal. The range on a glass wall vents with a downdraft to preserve the view. Matte cabinetry, illuminated glass doors, rich honed quartzite countertops, and glowing walnut create understated elegance. The oversized workstation with dual faucets complements this beautiful, functional area.

While in the kitchen, visit adjacent outdoor spaces. To the left is a private deck overlooking the magnificent Cullasaja River and its wildlife. The covered deck to the right is common to

the Great Room, and in the distance, the grandeur of Highlands’ ever-roaring waterfalls is visible.

The Wine Room is one of the most extravagant features. Solid, translucent, backlit natural stone slabs line the walls and ceiling of this climate-controlled glass enclosure, exposing artistic wine racking—a “must” to enjoy in the evening’s dim quiet.

Passing by the kitchen corridor, a secret door leads to the Powder Room, where a custom-fabricated stone trough sink, floor-to-ceiling backlit mirror, and floating walnut ceiling create dramatic effect for this modest space.

The first of two Guest Suites offers views to a landscaped courtyard and generous light. The built-in armoire makes the room spacious yet functional. The Guest Bath uses a classic navy vanity to warm the space; porcelain wood-look slats connect visually back to the Foyer walls. Black accents complement the strong

window statements throughout the house. Across lies the Second Primary Suite, with full river views and separation from living spaces for privacy. This dramatic bath features sharply contrasting black and white porcelain tile walls and heated floors.

The Primary Suite boasts soaring ceilings and nature-embracing glass walls. The custom walnut headboard and platform bed integrated into the glass wall are focal points, yet don’t overshadow the travertine and walnut handcrafted fireplace mantle. The wall cladding looks like metal with patina but is actually luxurious porcelain large-format tile. Large sliding doors open to a nature-inspired stone terrace where the roar of the waterfall and river is heard.

The suite’s functional spaces include a generous walk-in closet behind double corrugated glass and walnut doors, with built-in cabinetry, illuminated storage, a sit-down makeup area, and a

sleek stone island defining luxury and masterful design.

The Primary Bath opens to the closet, continuing the mixture of organic and refined materials that make this house spectacular. Heated large-format slatelook porcelain floors are interrupted by a natural stone pebble mat defining the soaker tub resting place, which faces outdoors through a floor-to-ceiling glass wall beneath a dazzling crystal chandelier.

The water closet and large shower have glass walls, keeping the space open and capturing light from transom windows.

Experience Black Rock, a residence where artistry and architecture meet. Schedule a private preview with Mary Abranyi, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, at (828) 226-9818. For custom design and construction by Black Rock Design Build, contact (828) 482-4424.

photos by Gil Stose

43 Years of Partnership Strengthens Healthcare Access on the Plateau

The Bob Jones Invitational and Highlands Country Club continue to fuel better healthcare on the Plateau through generous support of the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation and BRH-HC clinic.

For more than four decades, a remarkable partnership between Highlands Country Club, the Bob Jones Invitational, and the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation has ensured that residents and visitors on the Plateau have access to essential primary healthcare services.

Thanks to the enduring generosity of Highlands Country Club and the Bob Jones Invitational, Highlands is now a healthier, stronger community. Over the past 43 years, their steadfast commitment has provided life-changing support to improve healthcare access for everyone, recently through the work of Blue Ridge Health-Highlands Cashiers (BRH-HC).

The 2025 Bob Jones Invitational raised over $260,000 to benefit the Health Foundation. These funds will directly support BRH-HC, which delivers comprehensive primary care to everyone in the community, regardless of their ability to pay.

Held annually each August, the Bob Jones Invitational is one of the most unique and prestigious tournaments in the Southeast. The event celebrates the legacy of golf legend Bobby Jones, features competitors from the Walker Cup, and maintains a rich tradition of excellence and fellowship that continues to embody the tournament’s spirit each year.

Beyond its reputation for elite golf, the Bob Jones Invitational has become a force for good in the Highlands community. For the past five years, tournament proceeds have specifically targeted the shortage of primary care services on the Plateau. Through its consistent support of the BRH-HC clinic—one of the Health Foundation’s cornerstone investments—the tournament has played a key role in expanding healthcare access where it’s needed most.

In total, the Bob Jones Invitational has contributed more than $7.25 million to vital health programs across the Plateau

over its 43-year history.

Today, Blue Ridge Health-Highlands Cashiers serves hundreds of local families and has recently surpassed 14,000 patient visits. The clinic provides a full range of services, including family medicine, pediatrics, women’s health, preventive screenings, vaccinations, behavioral and mental health support, nutrition counseling, and treatment for common illnesses. Thanks to this partnership, healthcare on the Plateau is much more accessible and comprehensive than it was just five years ago.

The Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation extends heartfelt gratitude to Highlands Country Club and the Bob Jones Invitational. Their ongoing generosity and commitment have made a profound and lasting impact on the health and well-being of the Highlands community.

by Josh Bryson, Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation

(left) Ed Crenshaw, Bob Jones Invitational Committee Co-Chair, and (right) Myrle Grate, Health Foundation Executive Director.

Financial Focus® You Have

an Estate Plan — Whether You Know It or Not

Think estate planning is only for the wealthy or elderly?

Think again. If you own anything — a home, a car, a savings account, even a pet — you already have an estate plan. The only question is: Did you create it, or will your state do it for you?

When someone passes away without an estate plan, state laws take over, deciding who gets what and when. This legal process may not reflect your wishes.

That’s why taking control of your assets through a personal estate plan should be a top priority.

At its core, estate planning is about clarifying your wishes and making things easier for your heirs. It ensures your assets are distributed according to your preferences, designates who will make decisions on your behalf if you can’t and provides guidance for your care in a medical crisis. Most plans include four key components:

A Will – This document outlines how your assets should be distributed after your death and names an executor to oversee the process in probate court. It can also designate guardians for minor children. Keep in mind that a will doesn’t cover everything – certain transfer on death (TOD) accounts and jointly held property may bypass your will entirely.

Power of Attorney – If you become incapacitated, you’ll want someone you trust to be able to make decisions on your behalf. A durable power of attorney designates such a person, helping to ensure your bills are paid, your business continues (if you have one) and your wishes are honored.

Health Care Directive – Sometimes called a living will, this document spells out your preferences for medical treatment if you’re unable to speak for yourself. It can also designate someone to make health care decisions for you.

Beneficiary Designations – Accounts like 401(k)s, IRAs, and life insurance policies transfer directly to the people you name, regardless of what your will says. It’s essential to review these beneficiary designations regularly, especially after significant life events such as marriage, divorce, death of a spouse or the birth of a child.

One common myth is that a will is all you need. But wills only take effect after death; they don’t help if you’re alive but unable to make decisions. Another misconception is that estate planning is only for the wealthy. In truth, planning is about more than money — it’s about making things easier for the people you love during difficult times.

An effective estate plan can prevent costly legal battles, reduce confusion and give your loved ones a clear roadmap to follow. It also allows you to leave a legacy that reflects your values

and priorities.

As your life changes, your estate plan should change along with it. Review your documents every few years or after major life events. It’s often a good idea to seek help with such reviews. Your financial advisor or attorney can guide you through the process, ensuring your plan fits your unique circumstances. In the end, estate planning isn’t just about planning for what happens when you are gone. It’s about feeling confident, knowing that what matters most — your family, your purpose, your legacy — is protected.

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

Edward

Jones, Member SIPC

Todd Holder

The Science of Gratitude

As Thanksgiving approaches, research reminds us that gratitude isn’t just seasonal—it’s a daily practice that boosts health, deepens connection, and helps us thrive.

Coach Clay Hartman

As the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau enters the season of Thanksgiving, it’s easy to think of gratitude as a holiday tradition. We gather around the table, share a meal, and reflect on blessings. Yet science shows gratitude is more than a oncea-year ritual, it’s a daily practice that can transform health, strengthen relationships, and help us thrive all year long.

Gratitude works at the neurological level. When we focus on what we’re thankful for, the brain releases dopamine and serotonin, two of the “feel-good” neurotransmitters that reduce stress and lift mood. Over time, consistent practice builds neural pathways that make it easier to notice the positive, not just the problems. That shift doesn’t erase life’s challenges, but it helps us carry them with greater resilience. The benefits reach beyond the brain. Research links gratitude to lower blood

pressure, improved sleep, and reduced inflammation. A grateful mindset calms the stress response, lowering cortisol levels and easing strain on the cardiovascular system. For adults over 50, gratitude becomes a simple yet powerful tool for vitality and longevity.

to be complicated. Taking a quiet pause at mealtimes to truly savor food and company, offering a word of appreciation to someone during the day, or simply noticing the beauty of the Plateau on an evening walk can all reinforce the habit. Gratitude is like a muscle, the more we use it, the stronger its impact.

…or simply noticing the beauty of the Plateau on an evening walk can all reinforce the habit.

Gratitude has also been shown to strengthen the immune system, foster better heart health, and even increase resilience to pain. People who regularly practice gratitude report higher levels of energy and optimism, which translate into healthier lifestyle choices and improved overall wellbeing.

The practice of gratitude doesn’t need

And gratitude isn’t just personal, it’s relational. Expressing thanks deepens bonds with family, friends, and community. This November, as Thanksgiving reminds us to gather in gratitude, consider carrying that spirit into daily life. Science is clear: thankfulness isn’t just good manners, it’s an essential building block for health, vitality, and longevity.

by Coach Clay Hartman, Mabon Edge

Scan to learn more.

November on The Farm

As the air turns crisp and the horses kick up their heels, Carpe Diem Farms settles into the season of gratitude—where care, caution, and community keep everything running smoothly.

Welcome November! The wonderful month of gratitude and Thanksgiving.

Days are shorter, the air is crisp, and you can see the horse’s breath in the air. The rhythm of the farm slows as winter sets in.

On the cool days the horses “feel their oats” kicking up their heels as they joyfully run and play in the fields. The site of them brings a smile to the faces of those enjoying the view.

On the human side we bundle up, slow down our pace, and become more deliberate with chores and activities. Extra care is necessary for safety as well as the health of the horse.

You may not know it, when the temperatures drop and frost and ice settles on the grass, followed by sunshine and rising temperatures, the melting can be dangerous. Grass produces sugar to survive and sprout back. That’s a dangerous time

for the horses to be eating it, especially those with metabolic issues. They can colic if they consume too much too fast.

…you can see the horse’s breath in the air. The rhythm of the farm slows as winter sets in.

Traction is another issue. Snow, ice, frozen puddles and even the frost can become a skating rink. Extra care and caution are a must for humans and horses alike. Accidents can occur in an instant.

We are very fortunate to have a covered arena to turn the horses out for exercising on days when the weather is less than ideal. They can also enjoy munching on hay, avoiding the sugary grass.

Horses don’t like high winds and look

for ways to “turn their tails to the wind.” The arena provides wind blocks too. Programming is weather dependent in November and throughout the winter. Schedules must become more flexible except for the horses who thrive on routine. Thankfully we have generators that keep the lights on and the water flowing. All the water buckets and troughs are heated, another critical need.

Blessings do abound on the farm. As an educational foundation we are grateful for our donors who keep the horses on their gift-giving list and welcome those who would like to add us.

If you’d like to visit the farm, meet the horses and learn more about us please visit our web site: carpediemfarms.org

Wishing each of you a blessed and wonderful Thanksgiving.

by Sue Blair, Carpe Diem Farms

Fall Into Immune Strength

As cold and flu season approaches, Dr. Kristin Lander shares five simple, science-backed ways to support your immune health—starting with sleep, nourishment, and daily care.

Dr. Kristin Lander

As we head into late fall, many people start thinking about cold and flu season — and wondering how to strengthen their immune system. While no magic pill guarantees you won’t get sick, certain evidencebased strategies can give your body the best chance to stay resilient. Here are five holistic ways to support your immune health this season:

Prioritize Restorative Sleep

Your immune system works hardest while you sleep. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night. Establishing a regular bedtime, limiting screen use before bed, and creating a calming nighttime routine can help improve both sleep quality and immune strength.

Nourish with a Balanced Diet

A colorful, whole-foods diet provides the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants your immune system needs. Focus on

vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, lean proteins, and fiber-rich carbohydrates. Zinc (found in foods like pumpkin seeds and lentils) and vitamin C (citrus, peppers, greens) are especially important during the fall and winter.

Manage Stress Proactively

Chronic stress suppresses immune function over time. Build small stressreduction habits into your day — even a few minutes of deep breathing, mindfulness, or a short walk can make a meaningful difference.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration helps maintain healthy mucous membranes, which act as a frontline defense against viruses. Aim to drink half your body weight in ounces of water daily. Herbal teas and broths are also great hydrating options in cooler weather.

Keep Moving

Regular, moderate exercise boosts

immune function, while excessive intense exercise can temporarily suppress it. Find a balance that works for you — gentle walks, stretching, or light strength training are excellent ways to keep your body strong without overtaxing your system.

If you’re curious about specific supplements, I recommend consulting with a qualified professional to tailor choices to your unique needs. While supplements like vitamin D or probiotics can sometimes help, the foundation of immune resilience is built on daily habits.

This fall, focus on what you can control: nourish your body, reduce stress, stay hydrated, and rest well. With consistent care, you can support a stronger, more resilient you all season long.

by Dr. Kristin Lander, DC Highlands Chiropractic & Wellness

The New Rejuvenate

Now rebranded as Rejuvenate Medical Spa, this trusted wellness destination in Highlands and Franklin offers personalized, non-invasive treatments that enhance natural beauty and restore balance—inside and out.

Kirsey Apel, RN Injector / Laser Tech

Leslie Kellett, Office Coordinator

Diana Dye, Permanent Makeup Artist

Kaitlyn Ledford, RN injector / Laser Tech

Kayton Partridge, Aesthetician

Sharon Owen, Office Manager

Dr. Melita Ritter, Medical Director

Brianna McDonald, Digital Marketing Specialist

Rejuvenate Laser Center is excited to announce its rebranding to Rejuvenate Medical Spa, marking a new chapter in providing modernized, comprehensive, and personalized care. Relax. Rejuvenate. Revive.

Nestled in the beautiful mountain towns of Highlands and Franklin, the newly rebranded Rejuvenate Medical Spa represents a refreshed vision—helping clients enhance their natural beauty through medically backed, non-invasive treatments that restore skin health, boost confidence, and promote wellness inside and out.

At Rejuvenate, the experience goes beyond surface-level aesthetics. The team’s philosophy centers on enhancing your natural beauty, not altering it. With a focus on personalized care, Rejuvenate offers results-driven treatments in a calming space where you can truly relax, rejuvenate, and revive.

Despite the name change, Rejuvenate

Medical Spa remains under the same professional leadership and trusted staff clients have come to love. The team includes Sharon Owen – Office Manager; Leslie Kellett – Office Coordinator; Kirsey Apel and Kaitlyn Ledford – Nurse Injectors/Laser Techs; Kayton Partridge – Aesthetician; and Diana Dye – Permanent Makeup Artist. Dr. Melita Ritter continues to oversee medical services, ensuring every treatment meets high clinical standards while maintaining Rejuvenate’s signature calm, personalized experience.

The spa’s wide range of services includes laser hair reduction, skin resurfacing, neurotoxin injections, dermal fillers, IV therapy, microneedling, microdermabrasion, facials, peels, esthetician services, skin tightening, body contouring, permanent makeup, and custom skin consultations. Every treatment plan is tailored to individual goals, blending science, artistry, and comfort for results

you can see and feel. Visit the newly redesigned website at RejuvenateWNC. com to learn more.

In line with its new model, Rejuvenate is introducing memberships, treatment packages, and monthly specials—offering clients more flexibility and value as they pursue their beauty and wellness goals. Whether you’re a loyal regular or curious first-timer, there’s something for everyone.

Discover the New Rejuvenate. Experience the next level of care in a place that already feels like home. Book a free consultation, try a new service, or stop by to say hello—you’ll find familiar faces, elevated offerings, and the same genuine care at the heart of it all.

Rejuvenate’s offices are located at 209 Hospital Drive, Suite 202 in Highlands, and 2768 Georgia Road in Franklin. by Mary Jane McCall

The Art of Design

Rebecca McCracken of The Summer House blends lifelong passion, construction know-how, and natural inspiration to craft elegant, livable spaces across Highlands, Cashiers, and Rabun County.

There’s an old saying that if the shoe fits, wear it – and for Rebecca McCracken, interior designer at The Summer House, the “designer’s shoe” has been a natural fit since childhood.

Although she explored other paths in college, she ultimately embraced her lifelong passion for interior design and has never looked back.

Rebecca’s father is a contractor in Rabun

County, so she grew up seeing houses rise from the ground up, envisioning the finished project, and watching her dad bring homeowners’ dreams to fruition. Watching turned into action when, during her teens, she helped him design a floorplan for a spec house – a formative moment that showed her how design transforms a structure into something deeply personal.

While attending college in Atlanta, she

kept her toes dipped in the industry, working weekends for an interior designer in Peachtree Hills, running design errands, perusing showrooms, and seeing antique European pieces being incorporated into beautiful new designs. The mix of old and new intrigued her, an aesthetic that still influences her today. With over 12 years of experience, the last four at The Summer House in Highlands, Rebecca excels at helping her clients

Rebecca McCracken

craft elegant, livable spaces that reflect their personalities.

Whether you’re building your dream home, redecorating an existing home, or revitalizing or updating a single room or space, Rebecca has the unique ability to envision your dreams and make them a reality. Her extensive knowledge of materials, craftsmanship, and spatial planning can provide you with a truly creative and customized look. Her clients immediately appreciate and relate to her knowledge of and comfort level around all phases of construction and design. Rebecca works primarily in the

Highlands and Cashiers markets these days, but her services are in demand in Rabun County as well, and in fact, one of her more unusual projects is currently in Rabun County – a hangar house. That’s right, airplane hangar on the bottom, approachable and livable up top. Rebecca lives in Lakemont with her daughter, and in her spare time, she enjoys the outdoors, enjoying the wonder and beauty of nature. It’s her favorite way to relax, but her designer’s eye is always open to the beauty around her, and she finds that nature is a source of constant inspiration. In fact, she says,

“How could you live and work in one of the prettiest places on earth and not sense the connection between nature and art?”

The Summer House is located at 2089 Dillard Road in Highlands, or call them at (828) 526-5577. Stop by and see their beautiful showroom today and let Rebecca help you with all your design needs.

by Mary Jane McCall / photos by Susan Renfo

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Confidence Curated

With a national reputation and a deeply personal approach, Dr. David Harley brings advanced facial rejuvenation to Cashiers through his thriving practice, Biltmore Plastic Surgery.

Dr. David Harley

Dr. David Harley, MD, is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon whose reputation for excellence has made Biltmore Plastic Surgery a sought-after destination for patients nationwide.

With 18 years of experience and training at prestigious institutions including Vanderbilt University Medical Center and the Texas Medical Center, Dr. Harley brings a wealth of expertise to his practice in Cashiers. A Dartmouth College graduate, he began his career in Asheville before relocating to Cashiers, where he and his family have found their permanent home.

Dr. Harley’s specialty is facial rejuvenation, with a particular focus on deep plane facelift and deep neck lift surgery, often combined with fat grafting and facial skin resurfacing. These procedures are not only his favorites but also the most requested by patients, many of whom report looking 10 to 20 years younger after surgery.

The practice also offers upper and lower blepharoplasty, brow and forehead lifts, and lip lifts, providing a comprehensive suite of options for those seeking a refreshed, youthful appearance.

What sets Biltmore Plastic Surgery apart is its status as a true destination practice. Since 2011, patients have traveled from all 50 states and abroad, often choosing Dr. Harley over renowned surgeons in major cities like New York and Beverly Hills. This national recognition speaks to the trust and satisfaction of those who seek his care.

Dr. Harley’s approach to surgery is uniquely patient-centered. All procedures are performed under local anesthesia with oral sedation, eliminating the need for IV medication or breathing tubes. This method enhances comfort and safety, allowing for a smoother recovery.

Dr. Harley is known for his personal touch, providing patients with his cell phone number and encouraging updates

throughout the healing process. Many patients continue to share photos years after their procedures, celebrating their enduring results.

The practice is expanding, with a second office opening at Old Cashiers Square and new offerings such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy and carbon dioxide laser resurfacing. The close-knit team includes Abigail at the front desk; Savannah assisting with surgeries and postoperative care; and Nicole, Dr. Harley’s wife, managing operations.

Rooted in Western North Carolina for nearly two decades, Dr. Harley and his family are proud to call Cashiers home. Biltmore Plastic Surgery stands as a beacon of expertise, innovation, and personalized care in the heart of the mountains.

by Luke

Osteen

photo by Mary Gillan Renfro

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Summit School Scores Big

Summit Charter School celebrates its highest-ever state performance grade—a nine-point jump that reflects the dedication of students, teachers, and families across the Plateau.

In September, the State of North Carolina released School Performance Grades and state assessment results from the 2024-25 school year.

We’re proud to share that for the 2024-25 school year, Summit Charter School earned a School Performance Grade of a B at 74 percent. Summit’s performance represents a nine-point increase from the previous year and our highest score in the fourteen years of the state’s current School Performance Grade framework.

North Carolina’s School Performance Grade represents the state’s overall rating of school performance based on a combination of student academic achievement levels and student growth on end of year state tests.

According to the Department of Public Instruction, growth scores are determined by a statistical model that compares each student’s predicted test score, based on past performance, against his or her actual result.

School performance scores are based on a 100-point scale, with corresponding letter grades assigned as follows: 85-100 = A, 70-84 = B, 55-69 = C, 40-54 = D, and less than 40 = F. Student achievement levels make up 80 percent of a school’s performance grade, and student growth measures make up 20 percent.

While we will continue to value our students’ achievements and growth through measures beyond state test scores, we are incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication of our students, teachers, and families that Summit’s state rating reflects. The state’s School Performance Grade includes a number of academic indicators in which our students have demonstrated important increases in achievement levels across multiple tested subjects and grade levels over the past several years.

Overall, in comparison to state performance averages, Summit’s student achievement levels continue to meet

and in most cases exceed the state averages in all tested subjects at each of the elementary, middle, and high school levels. Additionally, Summit met state growth expectations in every tested subject area.

We are proud of our students’ academic achievements, and see their continued growth as a reflection of their hard work, the dedication of our teachers, and the support of Summit parents. With our mission and portrait of a Summit graduate at the forefront, we are also eager to utilize these results to help drive our continuous improvement to best support our students’ academic achievement and growth. As we do, Summit’s emphasis on the whole-child and our focus on academic excellence, community engagement, and strength of character will remain our driving focus each day.

by Kurt Pusch Head of School, Summit Charter School

In It for the Long Haul

Travel isn’t just a getaway—it’s a wake-up call. From palace stays in India to hyena encounters in Africa, Hilary’s reflection explores how bucket-list journeys stretch our limits, stir our souls, and fill us in ways we never expected.

You’ve heard the saying “wherever you go, there you are.” To me, the notion that “the farther you go, there you were” is the perfect summation of how we grow when we travel beyond our comfort zones.

On a recent trip to India, I had all the feels!

Days when I felt most challenged by the heat and chaotic traffic (comprised of people, cars, rickshaws, and live animals) were also the nights I went to bed feeling the most alive and excited. There were moments of tremendous joy and those of intense discomfort. Boundaries I didn’t know I had were pushed, but I also enjoyed the most gracious hospitality

I’ve ever experienced. And the literal palaces where I stayed were pretty great. My time spent on safaris in Africa provided similar juxtapositions. The thrill of the chase when trying to track down a leopard at sunset to round out my “big five” viewing, and the unexpected “thrill” of waking up at 2:00 A.M. to the sounds of a hyena trying to chew through my tent, sit next to memories of hours of quiet peace while on game drives and the home-away-from-home feeling created by the extraordinary staffs at our small lodges that allows guests to relax deeply into the natural world around them.

Places like Asia and Africa are not just vacations, they are activations – firing cylinders in your brain and soul that might have lain dormant for years. When we are repetitive in our landscapes, revisiting the same scenery year after year, we might find ourselves continually filling the same buckets. What would happen if you shook up your routine? You’d discover new buckets you didn’t even know you had to fill!

Epic journeys to far-flung corners of the globe often appear on bucket lists because they genuinely are once-in-alifetime experiences. These bucket list trips frequently involve long flights,

Hilary (Center) at Amber Fort in Jaipur, India

multiple connections, significant time zone and weather variations, and substantial cultural shifts. Having to learn the basics of a new language (or alphabet!), take precautionary medicines, or even spring for a new wardrobe can make such destinations less appealing to the average traveler, or even feel out of reach.

With proper planning, any landscape can become accessible. Here are some things to consider as you look to plan your next long-haul, bucket list adventure:

- Make a list of your dream destinations and prioritize them. Perhaps you can’t tackle more than one within a year or two but start with your most important and continue from there.

- Be realistic about the physical requirements of your destination of choice. If your trip requires you to be more active

than in your day-to-day life, prepare yourself by training in advance.

- Don’t overpack but also make sure you have everything you need to be comfortable. Seek out shoes, apparel, and gear that can aid your experiences, and pack band-aids and moleskins to avoid blisters. (Side tip: use holidays and birthdays to treat yourself and fellow travelers to necessities prior to the trip!)

- Travel in the shoulder seasons to avoid extreme temperatures – and crowds!

- Consider going with a group that provides a tour host for the duration of your trip. This will allow you to relax and enjoy the journey and give you access to locals who will help you navigate a new culture.

- Don’t assume you can’t afford your dream trip! Most likely you can find great experiences tailored to a variety

of budgets.

- Most importantly, don’t wait! Trust me, long flights do not get easier as we mature.

I’ll leave you with the vision of an empty glass jar. When you put stones in the jar up to the top, it’s considered full. But you can also take grains of sand and fill in all of the air surrounding those stones.

We humans are like that jar, and our buckets can be filled in various ways. If traveling is on your bucket list, what are you waiting for? Get going!

by Hilary Wilkes

Hilary is a local travel advisor and works personally with clients to plan trips around the world. She also plans and leads group trips through her family’s store, Highland Hiker. Learn more at scouttravelco.com and highlandhiker.com.

Sunset on Game Drive, Sabi Sabi Reserve, South Africa

Village Healer in Bushbuckridge, South Africa

Taj Majal, India

Hurricane Helene: A Reflection on Resilience

It may be difficult to believe that we just passed the one-year anniversary of the natural disaster that turned our world in Western North Carolina upside down, Hurricane Helene. Although bittersweet, it’s important to reflect on what we endured a year ago, not just to recall the challenges and hardships the hurricane brought, but to recognize our community’s remarkable resilience.

On an individual basis, our community shone bright — neighbors helped neighbors in whatever ways they could, whether that was sharing food and other resources, checking in with the elderly or chronically ill, or just lending a listening ear or giving a heartfelt hug when needed. With no internet, television to watch, or other tech-related distractions, connection really became critical.

Of course, our Highlands-Cashiers Hospital and Eckerd Living Center team members — no matter what department they served in or area of their expertise — aligned with the goal of continuing to provide the exemplary care we’re known for without interruption or incident, against all odds. This meant thinking and approaching care with creativity, resourcefulness, and even more compassion than usual. Some staff volunteered to shelter at the hospital while the storm was raging and many days after, so patients could receive care and treatment.

One extraordinary example of going “above and beyond” was when our dedicated doctors created a temporary walk-in clinic to serve patients. It was a welcome sign of stability during a very unpredictable, disorienting period.

I refer to the support HighlandsCashiers Hospital receives from HCA Healthcare often in these columns, but during the period of Hurricane Helene, their presence and assistance were even more vital. Thanks to them, we

and all the hospitals within the Mission Health system received essential resources, from medical supplies, fuel, and food and water to clinical and administrative personnel.

A bright spot of this support is the generosity of HCA Healthcare in supporting our team. The HCA Hope Fund provided financial help to hospital employees whose lives and homes were adversely affected by the hurricane and gave a generous gift of $1 million toward relief of HCA Healthcare employees in our region. We also benefited from the delivery of a gas truck by HCA Healthcare to allow staff to fuel their cars free of charge. Without even a request, HCA Healthcare sent supplies for us to open a mini- mart that allowed staff to get vital groceries, free of charge. Witnessing this investment and care for our staff and communities made me extremely proud to be part of the HCA Healthcare team.

Community organizations also came to the rescue in different ways. For example, our Boys and Girls Club of Highlands welcomed hospital team members’ children while schools were closed. Hospital volunteers worked many hours to help care for them. We had special neighbors who reached out to ask how they could help the hospital.

Our government agencies also stepped up in a big way. Macon and Jackson counties, as well as our town of Highlands, were supportive in many ways with providing assistance. When we learned a desperately needed food truck had to come up the gorge road, all that was needed was a call to Macon County’s Emergency Manager Warren Cabe and Police Chief Andrea Holland. They saw to it that the driver made it safely to the hospital. Finally, Highlands Cashiers Hospital’s own Board of Trustees was here every step of the way as we navigated uncharted

territory during and after the storm. While we certainly hope we’re never faced with the challenges Helene presented, rest assured our mission to provide care, compassion, and stability no matter the circumstances will remain. Our community has only grown stronger in the year since Helene, and Mission Health and HCA Healthcare has been proud to have been instrumental to the recovery effort.

by Tom Neal, RN, MBA, MHA

Tom Neal, RN, MBA, MHA, is the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) of Highlands-Cashiers Hospital. Neal is a proven leader with more than 30 years of progressive healthcare experience. Prior to his role at Highlands-Cashiers Hospital, he served as Chief Executive Officer of both Berwick Hospital Center in Berwick, Pennsylvania, and Greenbriar Valley Medical Center, Ronceverte, West Virginia, which are each part of Community Health Systems (CHS). Tom has an MBA from the University of Louisville, MHA from the California College of Health Sciences, BSN from Regents College of New York and an ADN from Jefferson Community College.

Designer Spotlight

BURESH

DESIGN

ANNE

Mountain Living

Anne Buresh brings a fresh perspective to mountain town design, blending classic craftsmanship with modern sensibility. Her work pairs rich materials and serene palettes with subtle luxury, creating spaces that feel grounded yet refined.

From cozy cabins to expansive retreats, Anne’s designs embody her belief that a home should reflect both its setting and the people who live within it. The result is an understated elegance that feels distinctly personal, distinctly mountain, and distinctly Anne.

Every project begins with a conversation — about how you live, what you love, and what makes a space feel like yours.

To explore Anne’s latest mountain projects or begin your own design journey, visit anneburesh.com.

Photo by Susan Renfro

Gratitude in Action

This Thanksgiving, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society honors the Adopting Angels, donors, volunteers, and staff who make their lifesaving work possible. From heartfelt adoptions to the unveiling of a new veterinary clinic, CHHS celebrates 38 years of compassion and community.

In this month of Thanksgiving, we would like to give thanks to our Adopting Angels who opened their hearts and homes to a CHHS shelter pet. We are thankful for our donors, supporters and community partners who make our lifesaving work possible. We thank our incredible volunteers and Board of Directors who give so much of their time and love. We give our heartfelt thanks to Team CHHS – the most compassionate group of animal shelter professionals on the planet. A couple of months ago we also said thank you in an all-new way. With the luxurious clubhouse at Old Edwards Club as our partner, we hosted an inaugural donor appreciation event called An Afternoon of Gratitude. More than sixty of our top donors gathered for a casual two hours of friendship and fellowship with a common theme – sharing our love for our four-legged family members.

Overlooking the magnificent golf course at Old Edwards Club, attendees at An Afternoon of Gratitude enjoyed delectable hors d’oeuvres and drinks and also viewed a sneak peek of architectural

animals in our community for the past 38 years. To serve as a voice for the voiceless is why we do what we do. And none of it would be possible without your kindness and support. From the bottom of our heart, we thank you.

…we have exceeded more than 50 percent of our fundraising goal in the first four months.

renderings of the new CHHS Veterinary Clinic opening in Summer 2027. Many of the donors present at the event have made the new vet clinic possible with their generous contributions, and with their support and from many others, we have exceeded more than 50 percent of our fundraising goal in the first four months. It has been an honor and privilege, and our passion and calling, to save, rescue and care for thousands of abandoned and neglected

On behalf of everyone at the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society, we wish for you and your family a happy, safe and blessed Thanksgiving holiday.

Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society is a 501(c) (3) non-profit animal shelter located at 200 Gable Drive in Sapphire on Highway 64. Visit us online at www.chhumanesociety.org or call (828)743-5752 for more information. Tax-deductible donations to support our lifesaving work can be mailed to: CHHS, P.O. Box 638, Cashiers, NC 28717. by David Stroud, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society

Thankful Hearts, Bright Futures

This Thanksgiving, students at The Literacy & Learning Center share what they’re most grateful for—from mentors and friends to family and the safe, supportive space where learning comes to life.

As the autumn air settles over the Plateau, the approaching Thanksgiving holiday reminds us to pause and reflect on our blessings. The Literacy & Learning Center recently asked the students in the After-School program what they are most grateful for this year. While their answers were wonderfully diverse, ranging from family to simple daily comforts, a common theme emerged: a profound gratitude for the people and places that make their lives safe, supportive, and filled with love.

Gratitude for Mentors: At TL&LC, a student’s success often starts with a helping hand. Many students voiced their appreciation for the caring adults in their lives, including “Ms. Caroline,” a vital source of support. This gratitude is extended to the dedicated staff and volunteers who sit side by side with our learners, patiently guiding them through challenging assignments. This one-onone attention is the quiet, daily magic that

ensures children stay on track and feel confident in their schoolwork.

Gratitude for Learning & Community: The students also recognized the importance of the safe space they build together. Though they didn’t mention books directly, they celebrated their “friends” and the feeling of belonging that is the foundation for learning. TL&LC is a place where students can connect with their peers, form friendships, and feel secure, which enables them to thrive. Even simple responses, like being thankful for “food” and “the whole world,” point to a newfound sense of security and awareness that learning fosters.

Gratitude for Family: Unsurprisingly, the most profound gratitude was reserved for family. Quotes poured in expressing thanks for “mother,” “father,” “parents,” and “siblings to play with.” One student movingly noted, “I am thankful for my dad who provides for our family,” and his “mother for her care.” These loving

bonds, including the companionship of a “dog” or “stepbrother,” fuel the confidence they bring to classrooms every day. The heartfelt thanks from TL&LC Afterschool students for their family, friends, and dedicated teachers are a direct result of the support from donors, volunteers, and the community. Your generosity ensures that every child has a safe and nurturing environment in which to learn and grow.

The Center extends its sincerest appreciation for helping foster this culture of gratitude and success. Staff at The Literacy & Learning Center wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving! Please consider supporting the Center to keep these vital programs running. For more information, please contact Jenni Edwards at JEdwards@ TheLiteracyandLearningCenter.org or (828) 526-0863. by Anna Norton, The Literacy & Learning Center

A New Voice for the Club

With deep local roots and a passion for community, Kayla Deaton brings fresh energy to the Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau— strengthening outreach, fundraising, and support for youth across Highlands and Cashiers.

Kayla Deaton

Earlier this year, the Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau welcomed Kayla Deaton as its new Resource Development Director. In this role, Deaton oversees fundraising, donor relations, communications, and community engagement efforts supporting the Club’s programs across Highlands and Cashiers.

A graduate of Western Carolina University in 2020, Deaton has called the area home for nearly a decade. She began her career in Events at Old Edwards Inn before serving as Director of Communications at Burlingame Country Club. Her professional experience and commitment to the community provide BGCP a blend of marketing expertise, event planning skills, and relationship-building experience.

Deaton’s arrival marks a new chapter for BGCP as the organization expands its reach and impact. Her leadership in digital communications, community outreach, and fundraising has strengthened the Club’s

visibility and community support.

Deeply passionate about the Plateau community, Deaton shares BGCP’s mission to provide a safe, supportive space where children can learn, grow, and discover new interests. Her understanding of local families and the value of after-school and summer programs fuels her dedication to ensuring every child can access these opportunities.

“The Club is such a special place,” Deaton shared. “Seeing the difference it makes in the lives of kids and their families is heartwarming. Here, children and teens can express themselves, learn, and build meaningful relationships with mentors—all while enjoying educational field trips connecting them to the broader community. I love seeing our members experience opportunities they might not have had otherwise, knowing they have a support system encouraging them to be their best.” Through her work, Deaton hopes to inspire more community members to get

involved—by volunteering, attending events, or supporting fundraising efforts that benefit local children. Every contribution helps create a brighter future for the young people who will one day lead this community.

The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau serves youth from kindergarten through 12th grade in the Cashiers and Highlands communities. BGCP is nationally recognized by Boys & Girls Clubs of America as one of the top 20 Clubs out of 5,200 nationwide. The Club offers programs focused on academic success, character development, and healthy lifestyles. BGCP is committed to ensuring all children, especially those who need it most, have access to a safe, supportive environment after school and during summer months.

For more information, contact Kayla Deaton at (828) 743-2775 or kayla@ bgcplateau.org. Visit bgcplateau.org. by Kayla Deaton, Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau

Strong Roots for Cashiers’ Children

At Cashiers Valley Preschool, even a simple game with a talking stick teaches children how to listen, share, and respect each other—skills that grow empathy, resilience, and a foundation for lifelong success.

On a recent morning at Cashiers Valley Preschool, a group of four-year-olds gathered in a circle, giggling as they practiced taking turns with a talking stick. What looks like a simple game is actually something greater: children learning how to listen, share, and respect one another. These are the building blocks of empathy, resilience, and lifelong success.

Now imagine if that circle didn’t exist. For many families in Cashiers, our preschool is not just a choice – it’s the only place their children can access high-quality early education in a safe, nurturing environment. Without it, many parents would struggle to work, and children would miss the chance to enter kindergarten confident, curious, and ready to learn.

Decades of research confirm what parents already know: the earliest years are the most important. Ninety percent of brain development happens before age five. What children experience then

lays the foundation for everything that comes after.

At Cashiers Valley Preschool, children don’t just learn their ABCs and 123s – they learn how to be part of a community. They practice kindness, problem-solving, and perseverance. They are cared for by teachers who know each child’s name, story, and potential.

As one parent shared: “When my son started here, he struggled with speech and didn’t want to leave my side. Today he sings songs at home, runs to greet his friends, and surprises us with new words every day. This school changed his life – and ours.”

But keeping this preschool strong is a challenge. We are a nonprofit. Tuition alone does not cover the cost of highquality care. Scholarships are vital, and teacher wages must remain competitive to keep the dedicated staff who make this magic happen. Our classrooms, playground, and resources also need

continuous support.

Without community help, this essential resource for Cashiers families is at risk. When you give to Cashiers Valley Preschool, you’re not just supporting a school – you’re investing in future teachers, nurses, firefighters, and small business owners. You’re ensuring every child, regardless of family income, has the chance to thrive.

At Cashiers Valley Preschool, we often say children are like saplings. With care, they grow strong roots that hold steady in life’s storms. But saplings don’t grow alone – they need sun, water, and a forest around them.

That’s where you come in. This preschool belongs to all of us. It’s not just a building – it’s the heart of a compassionate Cashiers. By supporting it, you are giving our children strong roots and bright futures.

by Danielle Hernandez, Cashiers Valley Preschool

Mentors Make the Difference

Picture this: a child sitting at the kitchen table, homework spread out, frustration building. Maybe mom’s working a double shift. Maybe dad’s not around. Maybe the stress of school or friendships feels like too much. Now picture someone else at that table—a mentor who leans in, listens, and says, “You’ve got this. I believe in you.” That small moment of encouragement can change everything.

Here in Macon and Jackson counties, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina sees how mentorship is more than just spending time together—it’s a lifeline for mental health.

Life can feel heavy, and kids are no exception. Between school pressures, social media, and family challenges, it’s no wonder so many young people feel anxious. The simple gift of a

caring adult or older peer makes an incredible difference.

One Little Sister recently said, “I don’t feel so invisible anymore. My Big reminds me that I matter.”

We don’t have to look far for examples of how mentorship changes lives:

In Jackson County, a high school Big Sister helped her Little—who struggled with anxiety—set small goals. Together they celebrated each success: showing up to school, joining a club, making a new friend. Slowly, her confidence grew. Today, she walks into school with her head held high.

In Macon County, a Big Brother introduced his Little to hiking. At first, their walks were quiet. Over time, the trails became a place where his Little felt safe sharing worries and dreams. The

mountains themselves seemed to carry some of the burden away. Those hikes became a healing ritual—body and mind both growing stronger.

The good news: making an impact doesn’t require special training or hours every week. It starts with showing up. A few hours a month to go for ice cream, play basketball, make crafts, or just talk—those hours add up to something life-changing.

Be a Big: Adults of all ages can mentor. Support High School Bigs: Local teens are stepping up to mentor younger students— your encouragement helps them succeed. Donate or Sponsor: Your support means more matches, more training, and more kids reached. Spread the Word: Maybe mentorship isn’t for you now—but you can connect us with someone who’d be the perfect Big.

by Danielle Hernandez, Big Brothers Big Sisters

A New Chapter Begins

The Hudson Library is raising $1.5 million to expand and modernize its space for a stronger community future.

For 141 years, the Hudson Library has been a cornerstone of the Highlands community, evolving from a small room into a modern hub for learning, connection, and growth. Now, this beloved institution is embarking on the “A New Chapter Begins” Capital Campaign. Launched this summer by the Hudson Library Foundation, the campaign aims to raise a crucial $1.5 million to fully fund a series of comprehensive renovations and expansions.

This ambitious initiative is a direct response to a community-needs survey, ensuring that the library’s future reflects the desires of the people it serves. The planned enhancements will create a more functional, welcoming, and vibrant space for everyone.

Key improvements include:

• Updated Reading Room: Creating a more serene and comfortable space for patrons.

• New Furniture, Shelving, and Lighting:

Modernizing the library’s interior for improved functionality and aesthetics.

• New Young Adult Lounge: Designing a vibrant and engaging space tailored for young adults.

• Dedicated Study and Conference Rooms: Providing essential spaces for individual and group work.

• Outdoor Pavilion and Walking Trail: Expanding the library’s footprint to include inviting outdoor spaces for community use and relaxation, complete with stone bridges, a water feature, and bench seating.

The Hudson Library’s impact goes far beyond its impressive number of daily visits and cardholders. It’s a vital resource for dozens of local non-profits and small businesses that rely on its tools and meeting spaces for their own work in education, the arts, and environmental and health services. This capital campaign will strengthen the library’s ability to serve as a critical

partner for these organizations.

The design of this renovation is in the hands of a talented team, including local firms Summit Architecture and Ross Landscape Architecture, as well as McMillan Pazdan Smith, a respected regional firm specializing in library design. The campaign has already made significant strides toward its fundraising goal, and donors have the unique opportunity to become part of the library’s lasting legacy through recognition displays and naming opportunities.

Visit hudsonlibraryfoundation.org to learn more about the “A New Chapter Begins” Capital Campaign or to make a donation.

by Philip Curcuru,

Hudson Library Foundation Scan to learn more.

Giving with Heart

This fall, Cullasaja Women’s Outreach celebrates a record $380,000 in grants— fueling education, healing, and hope across the Plateau.

Here on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, especially in this season of thankfulness, it seems right that we talk about the spirit of generosity that radiates from the women of Cullasaja Women’s Outreach. This year, our story is one of recordbreaking impact and heartfelt community connection.

On a bright September morning, the news spread: CWO had granted $380,000 to local nonprofits, the largest sum in their history. Since 2006, these 109 dedicated women have invested over $3.5 million in the region, quietly shaping lives and strengthening the fabric of their mountain community.

The process is thoughtful and thorough. Led by co-chairs Lindy Colson Harrison, Nancy Harrison, Jo Hill, and Dawn Van Fleet, the group reviews dozens of applications, seeking organizations that nurture, heal, and uplift. Thirty nonprofits received grants this year, with

awards ranging from $3,000 to $30,000. The recipients are as diverse as the needs they address: from Big Brothers/ Big Sisters and Blue Ridge Free Dental Clinic to Friends of Panthertown and the Summit Charter School.

Education is at the heart of CWO’s mission. Nearly 40% of grants fund programs for children – preschool, in-school, after-school, and summer enrichment.

“The importance of providing wellrounded educational experiences for our young cannot be overstated,” says Jo Hill. “Each program funded this year strives to ensure academic success while building personal responsibility, selfesteem, and positive lifelong values.”

Whether it’s literacy, science, or the arts, CWO believes every child deserves a chance to unlock their potential.

But the story doesn’t end with education. Over a third of this year’s grants support health and humanitarian services.

Lindy Colson Harrison reflects on the unique challenges faced by the underinsured and underprivileged: “Our dollars help support incredible local organizations and their volunteers, who provide access to therapeutic care, alleviate food insecurity, and address basic needs like heating fuel and warm clothing.”

Let me add: “Working together, we can build a stronger, healthier, more vibrant community. No pursuit could be more worthwhile.”

Through partnership with the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, CWO ensures every dollar makes a meaningful difference. by Margaret Eichman, Executive Director of Cullasaja Women’s Outreach photo by Susan Renfro Scan to learn more.

Care That’s Close to Home

REACH of Macon County has launched a vital forensic nursing program, restoring trauma-informed care for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence—right here in the community.

After years without consistent access to forensic nursing services, Macon County survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence now have a local option for trauma-informed care through a groundbreaking program launched by REACH of Macon County.

The community-based forensic nursing program addresses a critical gap that emerged after two hospital mergers left the area without trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs). These nurses collect evidence, provide medical care, and can testify in court for sexual assault and domestic violence cases.

“Macon County hasn’t had access to forensic nursing for many years,” explained Jennifer Turner-Lynn, Assistant Director of REACH.

The urgency became clear when one client had to wait 17 hours in Asheville for an exam. “That case prodded us forward in wanting to make substantial change.”

With funding from the Governor’s Crime

Commission, Evergreen Foundation, FVPSA, and Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation, REACH developed an innovative solution.

The organization partnered with Cherokee Indian Hospital’s forensic nursing program, bringing in consultant Renee Collette to recruit and train local nurses. Now five trained forensic nurses serve the community.

Space was another hurdle. While REACH continues fundraising for their new Victim Advocacy Center, Dr. Clayton Davis has donated private office space in downtown Franklin, ensuring a safe and discreet setting for exams.

From this location, survivors of any gender can receive medical forensic exams, injury documentation, medications, and referrals to advocacy, legal, and medical resources – all at no cost. Services are available 24/7 through REACH’s hotline, launched August 1, and survivors may access care through hospitals, law

enforcement, or by calling 911.

Survivors retain full control of their choices. Exams can be anonymous, evidence can be preserved without law enforcement involvement, and advocates help survivors navigate compensation programs and legal rights. Evidence collection is most effective within five days of an assault, but REACH encourages anyone to reach out regardless of how much time has passed.

Turner-Lynn says, “Anything we can do to keep things local means less trauma, faster support, and stronger cases for survivors.”

For Macon County, the program restores a vital service that had been missing for years, ensuring survivors are never alone in their first and most vulnerable moments.

For more information or to access services, contact REACH at (828) 369-5544 or visit reachofmaconcounty.org.

by Marlene Osteen

Christmas With Care

Shop With A Cop brings holiday joy to Macon County children in need—offering gifts, warmth, and lasting connections with local law enforcement.

It’s almost Christmastime and time for Shop With A Cop.

Shop With A Cop is a program for Macon County children who would have little or no Christmas. This program was founded by former Sheriff Robbie Holland and his wife Marci after he had arrested a mother of three girls just before Christmas. The Hollands helped provide Christmas for the girls and then started SWAC.

Franklin Sheriff Brent Holbrooks has continued SWAC.

Children of Macon County are taken to Walmart, given a $200 gift card and Shop With A Cop. This helps the children know Cops are not the bad guys. Some of the children have a family member in jail or ones who have had run-ins with law enforcement. Now many who have participated in SWAC

have a long lasting and positive relationship with “their Cop.”

Children are to get a gift for themselves and a gift for someone else. However, because of inflation and hard times many of the children only get necessities for the home.

Last year a child told the officer she was shopping with that she only wanted blankets for every one in the family so they could stay warm over the winter months. Another child only shopped for warm clothing and shoes to help her not be so cold during the winter.

The Church of the Incarnation in Highlands brings coats, hats and gloves, donated by church members, for each of the Highlands children who are chosen to shop. These are given to the children just before they shop with “their Cop.” Many are so thrilled with these items

they wear them while they shop. This generous donation helps with the amount they have to spend on other items.

The number of children for Highlands last year doubled and each year the number of those in need throughout Macon County increases.

Donations are needed to help these children who would have little or no Christmas.

Please consider donating to help the children enjoy a Warm and Merry Christmas. Please send your donations to: Caroline Cook, P. O. Box 2785, Highlands, NC 28741 or drop a check by the Highlands Police Department. Make checks out to Shop With A Cop or SWAC. Donations are tax deductible. by Caroline Cook

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