HIGHLANDS AND CASHIERS
WINTER 2020
THELAURELMAGAZINE.COM
LAUREL
YOUR GUIDE TO
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INSIDE THE LAUREL WINTER 2020 THINGS TO DO
DINING
12
Local Love
14
Outhouse Race
16
Hudson Library
17
Cashiers Library
18
African Children’s Choir
22
Winter Photo Contest
24
Year of the Woman
25
Dive In Movies
26
Highlands Ice Skating Rink
64
The Beauty of The Bears
28
Chocolate Cook-Off
65
Fly Fishing Questions
29
Dinner Theater
66
Rainbow Falls
68
Winter Pansies
69
Knee High Naturalists
70
Winter Waterfowl
50
The High Dive
82
Balanced by Nature
52
Louis Osteen Legacy Scholarship
84
Pursuit of Understanding
56
Quick and Easy Rolls
86
Financial Focus
58
Chef Dinners
87
Let’s Wait and See
61
Dining Guide
VENTURE OUT
30 Calendar
THE ARTS 39
Cover Artist Wanda Cooper
40
Highlands Performing Arts Center
42
Highlands Playhouse
44
H-C Art League
45
Artist Hubie Vickers
46
The Jewelry of Chrissy Picklesimer
47
H-C Youth Theater
HOMES & LIFESTYLES
HISTORY 74
Highlands History
75
Cashiers History
HEALTH 76
2020 Healthy Resolutions
78
The Antibiotic Dilemma
GIVING BACK 90
Big Brothers, Big Sisters
90
Summit Charter School
92
H-C Land Trust
93
C-H Humane Society
94
Carpe Diem Farms
95
The Village Green
96
Highlands Rotary Club
97
Highlands Writers Group
BIZ SPOTLIGHT 100
Waterfall Ribbons
100
Mike and Dooley
102
Cashiers Chamber of Commerce
103
Highlands Chamber of Commerce
30 Calendar | 34 Highlands Map | 36 Cashiers Map | 61 Dining Guide 88 Service Directory | 113 Advertiser’s Index
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MAKING IT HAPPEN
JANET CUMMINGS Managing Partner
MARJORIE CHRISTIANSEN Managing Partner
janet@thelaurelmagazine.com
marjorie@thelaurelmagazine.com
MICHELLE MUNGER Art Director
SARAH FIELDING Account Manager
Publisher’s
Note
mungerclan5@aol.com
sarah@thelaurelmagazine.com
LUKE OSTEEN Editor / Writer
DONNA RHODES Writer
Well, here we are in 2020! At first blush, you may be saying that it looks suspiciously like 2019, but we like to think that this New Year is rich with possibilities. Leaf through these pages and you’ll see that the Plateau is bursting with activities that’ll keep us healthy and happy during these first few months.
luke@thelaurelmagazine.com
dmrhodes847@gmail.com
If, however, you’re feeling a bit groggy, make a point to visit The Chocolate Cookoff at Cashiers Community Library, set for February 15. It combines two of our abiding passions – chocolate, wall to wall chocolate; and plunging into a lively party filled with interesting people. Wherever you are at the start of this New Year, find your happiness!
JENNY KING Writer
jenny@thelaurelmagazine.com
MARY JANE MCCALL Writer
mjmccall777@gmail.com
with love,
Janet and Marjorie Volume Eighteen • Issue One thelaurelmagazine.com • 828-526-0173 info@thelaurelmagazine.com P.O. Box 565 • Highlands, NC 28741
THOMAS CUMMINGS Distribution Manager jothcu@yahoo.com
Contributing Writers: Marlene Osteen, Jane Gibson Nardy, Mary Adair Trumbly, Sue Blair, Dr. Anastasia Halldin, David Stroud, Jeannie Chambers, William McReynolds, Sue Aery, Ann Self, Zach Claxton, Charlotte Muir, Kat Ford, Mary Abranyi, Ashby Underwood, and Chris Wilkes Contributing Photographers: Susan Renfro, Greg Clarkson, Charles Johnson, Peter Ray, Terry Barnes and Kevin FitzPatrick Copyright © 2020 by The Mountain Laurel, LLC. All rights reserved. Laurel Magazine is published eleven times per year. Reproduction without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publishers and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication subject to Laurel Magazine’s right to edit. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, photographs and drawings. Every effort has been made to assure that all information presented in this issue is accurate, and neither Laurel Magazine nor any of its staff is responsible for advertising errors, omissions, or information that has been misrepresented in or to the magazine. Any substantial errors that are the fault of the magazine will be subject to a reduction or reimbursement of the amounts paid by the advertiser, but in no case will any claim arising from such error exceed the amount paid for the advertisement by the advertiser.
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FEELING THE LOVE BY ASHLEY STEWART
Old Edwards Inn extends its Holiday Cheer into the New Year with a generous offer for local guests.
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ow that the holidays are over and the last of our beloved visitors have returned home, life on the Plateau has slowed down but it certainly hasn’t stopped. These slower months are the perfect time for Old Edwards Hospitality Group to offer special discounts to the hardworking men and women—who are at the heart and soul of the Highlands and Cashiers community. That hard work is being rewarded through Old Edwards’ Local Love program. From January 1 through April 30 on weekdays (excluding holidays), Old Edwards Inn is offering a wide selection of services at a special discount for residents
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of Macon, Jackson, Rabun and Transylvania counties. Relax and enjoy the same five-star treatment as their seasonal guests, without the cost or the crowds of summer. Stay at Half Mile Farm or Old Edwards Inn from just $145 per night. Enjoy 20 percent off an exquisite meal at Madison’s Restaurant and 25 percent off your entire purchase at Acorns Boutique. Fitness and yoga classes are only $20. A 50 -minute spa treatment is $125 and includes the use of all spa amenities for the entire day. And don’t forget to check out their Wine Down Sundays – when locals enjoy 50 percent off the Sommelier’s Select List
with dinner at Madison’s Restaurant. Wine Down Sundays are not limited to local counties, so bring a guest or two! A valid local ID from Macon, Jackson, Rabun or Transylvania counties is required from each person receiving the Local Love discounts. Some restrictions apply. This offer cannot be combined with any other discounts or specials. Taxes and gratuity are not included. Please call (866) 52680 08 for more information, and to book. The Plateau would not be the amazing little haven that it is without the men and women that live here. Reward yourself and the ones you love with a gift from Old Edwards Hospitality.
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OUTHOUSE RACE BY MARY JANE MCCALL
Sure enough, it does go downhill. The Outhouse Race returns to the slopes of Sapphire Valley on February 15. Admission is free.
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ne of the Southeast’s wackiest and most creative events happens right here in Sapphire Valley every February when fun lovers kick into creative overdrive and participate in the annual Sapphire Valley Outhouse Race, held this year on Saturday, February 15. Festivities begin at 11:0 0 A.M. and culminate with the race at 3:0 0 P.M. North Carolina Barbecue will be served starting at 11:0 0 A.M. and the afternoon fun will continue with live music
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Want to get in on the fun and enter your and a parade of entries. own creative entry? The entry rules are Choose your favorite team from simple: you must register in advance and among the colorful entries such as your outhouse must be five feet tall, be “Who Cut the Cheese,” Redneck Wishequipped with a toilet seat and toilet paper ing Well,” and “Party Poopers,” and find or alternative wiping source, and be built on a slope side spot to cheer them on. skis of course. Beyond those requirements, This event draws spectators from outhouses are encouraged to be creatively across the Southeast to join in an afterdecorated, and the more outlandish the noon of wacky fun for the whole family participant’s costume, the better. and has become so popular as to be listed as a Top 20 Event in the Southeast for February by The Southeast …imagine watching someone dressed in Tourism Society. What is an outhouse a crazy outfit, climbing into a decorated race you ask? Well, outhouse built on skis, sitting on a toilet imagine watching someone dressed in a crazy seat, and flying down the slopes… outfit, climbing into a decorated outhouse built on skis, sitting on a Free to watch, the Outhouse Races are a toilet seat, and flying down the slopes— spirited event full of creativity and humor. all while attempting to stay upright It’s an afternoon of fun you won’t want without crashing into the banks. That’s to miss. a taste of Sapphire Valley’s annual OutDetails are available at skisapphirevalley. house Races, an event enjoyed every com. All proceeds from the event benefit Presidents’ Day Weekend by hundreds the Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau. of cheering spectators.
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LOOK WHAT THE LIBRARY HAS! BY DEENA C. BOUKNIGHT
The perfect tonic for the incredibly sleepy days of winter – a visit to Hudson Library.
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When in doubt, go to the library.” A quote attributed to J.K. Rowling, of Harry Potter fame – but a comment filled with truth, as Hudson’s librarian can attest. Not only is winter a time for nestling inside with a good book, but Carlyn Morenus said there is much more that residents and visitors can get out of a library visit. And everything is free! “They can hang out by our gas fireplace in the Adult Reading Room with a book, magazine, or a friend,” she said. “Assemble a jigsaw puzzle, or take some home with you.” Plus, select movies will be shown to the public on January 8 and 15, and on February 5 and 19. Or, check out DVD or Bluray movies. And content can be streamed through Kanopy, visit their website at fontanalib.kanopy.com. Beat winter blues by perusing Hudson Library’s music CD collection – everything
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from classical to country to jazz and pop is available to check out and lift spirits. The Hudson Library is also a place to get out of the cold and learn a new skill or hobby through MakerTools, which features DIY project opportunities and instruction. Since children often become stir crazy during the winter season, the wonderful Children’s Room is a way for them to blow off steam and enjoy reading or being read to. Explained Morenus, “It’s full of interactive play things for the kids (and adults) to enjoy that are mounted on the walls, on the ends of bookshelves … building blocks, puzzle boards, tablets with children’s apps, and much more.” While the popular Books & Bites author talk series will be back in the spring/summer, a must-not-miss winter event is “A Sense of Place: Public Readings of Creative Writing About Highlands” on January 10.
Morenus’ teaser for the 2020 Books & Bites includes the names of scheduled authors and dates when they will visit Hudson: Susan Meissner, “The Last Year of the War” - May 20; Kimmery Martin, “The Cure for Everything” - June 13; Beatriz Williams, Lauren Willig & Karen White, “All the Ways We Said Goodbye” July 11; These programs are free as well, and authors have books available for purchase and signing. Finally, there is always free Wi-Fi and a notary available at Hudson Library. Carlyn said everyone should have a library card. It’s easy to obtain one! Stop by Hudson Library at 544 Main Street. For more information, call (828) 526-3031. Its wireless signal is available 24 hours a day and no membership or password are required.
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THE BEST LITTLE BOOKSTORE BY CANDACE SOMMER | FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY
The generous nature of the Cashiers/Glenville community and a tireless crew of volunteers ensure that the Cashiers Library Bookstore is one for the books.
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here’s a little jewel for the entire Cashiers/Glenville Community nestled within The Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library. Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library houses the Best Little Bookstore in Cashiers. Okay, the Library Bookstore may be the only bookstore in town, but we really think we are the best! You’ll find thousands of gently-used books, three different fiction formats (hardcover, trade, mass market), extensive history, biography, self-help, health/ diet and gardening/landscaping selections, hundreds of DVDs and CDs and audio books at the used bookstore tucked back inside the Cashiers Library. Library volunteers work very hard to keep the shelves stocked and organized for our customers. Most sell for under $5.
The Best Little Bookstore in Cashiers will begin monthly sales in January, featuring a different category/genre each month. We will begin in January – a time of New Year promises and self-improvement – by featuring self-help and relationship books. All books that fall in this category – hardback, paperback and trade - will sell for $1 every day during the month of January. In February, the month of presidential and community leader birthdays, the Bookstore will feature biographies. Again, all books that fall in this category – hardback, paperback and trade – will sell for $1 every day during the month. Best of all — all proceeds from the sale of the Best Little Bookstore merchandise go directly to support our Library inventory and services. Beginning in January, The Best Little Bookstore will be holding monthly 50 percent off
sales featuring different genres. These will include: Antiques/Art/Arts & Craft; Biography (including Presidents); Cookbooks and Diet; Health; Politics; Home Decorating/Home Improvement/Gardening/Landscaping; History; Sports; Self-Help/Reference; Travel; Christmas/holiday; Music CDs. The Friends of the Library has two major means to raise funds to support the Library: annual memberships and used book and audio sales. The money raised goes directly to the Library so they can provide more books, more programs for children and adults, and more served free for everyone in the Cashiers community. The Best Little Bookstore is open yearround during regular library hours. Stop by to shop anytime! For more information, or to volunteer, go to cashiersfriends.com.
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MUSIC FOR LIFE A chorus of beautiful voices from Africa will be raised at a free concert at Community Bible Church, 3645 Cashiers Road in Highlands, Friday, January 24. Everyone is invited.
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he African Children’s Choir will perform its new program, “Just As I Am,” at 6:30 P.M. Friday, January 24, at Community Bible Church. Admission is free (donations will be accepted) and the event is open to everyone. The African Children’s Choir are ambassadors for the millions of suffering children back home in Africa, and funds raised on tour not only go towards the education of each touring Choir child but also to the continuing efforts of our fundraising organization, Music for Life. Music for Life works in Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and South Africa, to improve
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the lives, education and futures of thousands of suffering children living in unthinkable environments. The African Children’s Choir and Music for Life have so far educated over 50,0 0 0 children since 1984, and have helped a further 10 0,0 0 0 children through their ongoing relief and education projects. The arrival of the choir is a continuation of Community Bible Church’s founding principles of spreading the Gospel and serving the poor of the world. For more information, call Community Bible Church at (828) 526 -4685.
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LAUREL’S ANNUAL PHOTO CONTEST BY MARY JANE MCCALL
We’re seeking the perfect photo for our Winter 2021 cover. We’re looking at you.
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iving in Highlands is like living in a storybook. Beauty surrounds us at every turn. Every season offers a fresh perspective, but there’s something about the stark beauty of winter that beckons the inner photographer in us all to take a few moments to try and capture the beauty of the moment so we can carry it with us throughout the year. From the bright red flash of a cardinal or holly berry against the barren trees, to sunrises and sunsets that explode with color, or sunlight glistening on a freshly fallen snow, winter is a perfect time to enjoy a few moments in nature with our cameras. Whether you’re a professional photogra-
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pher, or just someone who loves to capture the magic of the moment on your cell phone or pocket camera, The Laurel is offering you a chance to become a cover artist. That’s right, the 2021 Laurel Winter Photo Contest has begun, so grab your camera and start snapping your way to fame. Your winning photograph could be the cover of our 2021 Winter Edition. Pictured are some of our favorites from last year’s competition. One of these might be just the inspiration you need to capture your own winning shot. All you have to do is keep an eye open for the beauty
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of this, our quietest and most reflective season, and capture that moment on film. Aspiring cover artists should enter their seasonal and magazine appropriate shots at facebook.com/TheLaurelMagazine by March 31, 2020. Submitted photographs should be high resolution and must be of the Highlands-Cashiers area. Amateurs, professionals, young and old, are encouraged to join the fun and share the beauty of the season. Pictures will appear on The Laurel Facebook page and readers can vote for their favorite. The deadline to enter and to vote is March 31 and the winner will be announced on Facebook. The winning photograph will appear on the cover of the 2021 January-February edition of The Laurel. Visit facebook.com/TheLaurelMagazine to enter and vote before the March 31 deadline.
Point phone camera at QR code to enter and vote in the Laurel’s annual Winter Photo contest.
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YEAR OF THE WOMAN BY LUKE OSTEEN
Slip on your dancing shoes! The Laurel will be celebrating The Year of the Woman with every issue.
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elcome to 2020! And here at Laurel , welcome to the Year of the Woman! It’s, of course, the 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment, which granted American women the right to vote. But if you’ve been browsing Laurel ’s pages over the years and read Jane Nardy’s chronicles of life in the early days of Southern Jackson County, or Donna Rhodes’ presentations of tales from Ran Shaffner’s “Heart of the Blue Ridge,” you know that women have always played a substantial role in life on the Plateau. Matriarchs, pioneering doctors, emboldened businesswomen who understood the value of hard work and honest dealings – they were all setting the stage for what we enjoy today upon this little corner of Western North Carolina. And they didn’t need permission from the US Constitution to assert themselves. In fact, the magazine that you’re brows-
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ing through at this moment is itself a product of the example set by those women. Eighteen years ago, Janet Cummings and Marjorie Christiansen envisioned a magazine that would chronicle life here on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. They were, of course, told by many, that they were too ambitious, didn’t quite grasp the nuances of publishing, and, if the concept really were viable, then why hadn’t someone, done it before? Yet here we are. That’s why, throughout this year, we’re going to spotlight the women of the Plateau who’ve really made a difference, whether right here or on the other side of the globe. For instance, consider the source of this month’s recipe, Wilma Gordon. She’s a true Highlander, beloved by generations of local children who passed through her Highlands Preschool (now known as The Wilma Gordon Center and to which she
still serves at 87). Miss Wilma, as she’ll always be known around here, began her tireless, compassionate educational career at a trio of so-remote-you-had-tofly-into-them Eskimo villages in the 1950s and 60s. That’s the sort of woman we’ll be focusing on. Or we don’t even have to spotlight them. Browse through The Laurel with fresh eyes and you’ll discover how women are still making their energy and ideas felt in the twin communities. They’re behind the events that give shape and savor to life here. Their tireless energy keeps so many community organizations alive and focused. Imagine life without them. Not very pretty, is it? And in our next issue, you’ll learn how a group of local women will be making the impact of the 19th Amendment resonate today, 100 years later.
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DIVE IN MOVIES Highlands Swimming Pool will screen movies at 6:30 P.M. on the first Fridays in January and February, as part of its Dive In Movie Series.
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ot all of us get the chance to jet away to an exotic spa to refresh and re-energize ourselves as this winter drags on. But the good people at the Highlands Rec Park’s Swimming Pool have just the tonic for you, It’s a lot cheaper and a lot easier than heading for a resort far from the Plateau. And you can indulge yourself in the company of your family and friends. Though the movies hadn’t been selected by the time we went to press, you can be assured that the choices will be family-friendly. Make an appointment on your calendar for the Dive In Movies set for January 3 and February 7. The pool opens at 6:30 and the movie starts at 7:00. Admission is $5 and includes a bag of popcorn. The water is kept between 82 and 83 degrees, so it’s always comfortable. If you’d rather sit on the side, there are lounge chairs available and heaters to keep you warm in this chilly season. If you’re still not sure, look at Dr. Patti Wheeler’s Heart-Healthy Tips on Page 76. See that part about exercise? A doctor is prescribing this! Perhaps a spa experience at a fancy resort can top this, but we’re not so sure. For more information, call (828) 526-1595.
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HIGHLANDS ICE SKATING RINK BY LUKE OSTEEN
Like something from a storybook, Highlands’ Ice Skating Rink is the perfect spot for making cherished winter memories.
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n page 76, you’ll find Dr. Patti Wheeler’s sage advice about keeping your heart healthy. Prominent among Dr. Patti’s suggestions is the admonition to “Exercise for at least 30 minutes, three times a week.” This comes into play when you consider the marvelous resource that’s the Highlands Recreation Department’s Ice Skating Rink at the Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park on Pine Street. Even if you’re not ready to win a gold in the Winter Olympics, you can still hone your skating skills and get that vigorous exercise that Dr. Patti’s talking about. The rink opened in 2016, thanks to the generosity of Art and Angela Williams, and has since been a gathering place for skaters of all ages. Cost is $5 (with or without skates). Rental skates are available, from youth size 8
through adult size 14. Coffee and hot chocolate are available for skaters. Highlands Skating Rink is open now through March 1. Hours are Thursdays 1:0 0 until 8:0 0 P.M.; Fridays and Saturdays 1:0 0 until 10:0 0 P.M.; and Sundays, 1:0 0 until 5:0 0 P.M. During the holiday season, in addition to the hours listed above, the rink will be open Monday, December 23; and Monday, December 30, through Wednesday, January 1. If you want to bring a party or group of friends, the Highlands Recreation Department has reserved Mondays and Tuesdays for group bookings from 6:00 until 8:00 P.M. Please make reservations two weeks in advance of your party. For more information, call the Highlands Recreation Department at (828) 526-3556.
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CHOCOLATE COOK-OFF If endless weeks of dreary weather have you a little down, cast your gaze toward Albert CarltonCashiers Community Library’s Chocolate Cook-Off, set for noon to 2:00 P.M. Saturday, February 15. Join in the competition or attend to sample these glorious creations.
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display your confections creatively for the he Friends of the Albert Carlton-Cashiers does not include commercially-prepared chance to win The Best Table Decorations. mixes, doughs, etc.) Community Library will stage their Anyone interested in entering the cook-off Do your best to wow the three-judge immensely popular Chocolate Cook-Off may pick up an application at the front desk panel to win one of multiple awards based at noon Saturday, February 15. of the Cashiers Library. You can also This delicious and fun event is find more information and an online a community favorite that brings application form at cashiersfriends. together bakers, chocolate lovers, Amateurs and professionals are com. Each contestant will make one and library supporters for a once-adessert to be judged by the panel, year “choco-stravaganza” to raise encouraged to create a beautiful and and subsequently auctioned off, as funds to support the Library. tasty confection. well as additional small bites for the Amateurs and professionals People’s Choice competition. There are encouraged to create a is no entry fee for bakers. beautiful and tasty confection There is a $6 charge to attend and taste using your choice of milk chocolate, on taste, aroma, creativity and eye appeal. white chocolate, dark chocolate or a You’ll also be contending for the People’s at the event. For more information, contact Bonnie mixture of any or all three. (Just make sure Choice Award, decided by the ballots of Zacher at bjzacher@bellsouth.net. your dessert is made from scratch and those in attendance. Finally, be sure to
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DINNER THEATER Highlands Cashiers Players will spotlight a quartet of one-act plays at its March Dinner Theater, slated for March 19-21 and March 26-28.
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actors, 41 of them in multiple productions. In the summer of 2008, the Highlands ighlands Cashiers Players is showcasWhat makes the Highlands Cashiers Community Players joined forces with theing four new plays shepherded by Players special is they are the areas only ater lovers in nearby Cashiers and transinew and seasoned directors, Thursall-volunteer, not-for-profit theater orgationed to the Highlands Cashiers Players. day through Saturday March 15-17 and nization that always welcomes inexpeThe twin communities have sustained a March 22-24. It’s produced by Courtney rienced and experienced actors all the schedule of four productions each season, Scarborough and Lynleigh McLain. same. They also encourage anyone who along with the popular holiday favorite These one-acts will play in the auditorimight want to help out in other areas um of The Martin-Lipscomb Performthat are just as vital, such as direcing Arts Center. They’ll be performed Highlands Cashiers Players continues to tors, technical staff, set designers between courses of dinner served at and builders, backstage assistants, The PAC. grow and succeed thanks to their box office personnel, and hospitality Tickets are $48, which includes support from season ticket holders, providers. In addition to volunteers, tax. Doors open at 6:30 P.M. and the the Highlands Cashiers Players conshow begins at 7:00. sponsors, and donors. tinues to grow and succeed thanks In July of 1995, Sara Mayer, Carol to their continued support from seaLucas, Jerri Talley, Jean Morris and son ticket holders, sponsors, and doApril Hershey each gave $100 to nors. Without those people, HCP would not of their traditional holiday reading each begin a community theater group in Highexist, they truly are the heartbeat of HCP. Christmas season. That’s resulted in over 80 lands, the Highlands Community Players Plans were being finalized as The Laurel full-length plays involving 25 directors, 23 was born. That first season they chose three went to press, so visit highlandscashiersholiday readings, 6 dramatized readings plays – “Steel Magnolias,” “Dearly Departplayers.org more information. of full-length plays, and featuring over 250 ed,” and “A Thurber Carnival.”
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THINGS TO DO
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
• Friday, January 3: Dive In Movie Series, 6:30 P.M., Highlands Rec Park Swimming Pool. Admission is $5 and includes a bag of popcorn. For more information, call (828) 526-1595. • Friday, January 10: Reception with Laurel’s featured cover artist Wanda Cooper, 5:30 to 7:00 P.M. at Studio 106, 478 Dillard Road, in Highlands Creek Village. Everyone is welcome to attend as long as you RSVP to (828) 787-2121 or info@studio106.photos. • Saturday, January 11: MET Opera features “Wozzeck” by Berg, 12:55 P.M. with a pre-opera discussion at 12:30 P.M. Tickets available at highlandspac.org or highlandsperformingarts.com or at the door. Highlands Performing Arts Center is located 507 Chestnut Street. • Friday, January 17: Corn Hole & Swimming at the Highlands Recreation Center, from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M., hosted by the Highlands Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Corn hole boards, food and music are provided – all you need is your bathing suit and a towel! Visit bbbswnc.org or contact Danielle Hernandez, program coordinator, at (828) 3999133, or via email at cashiers@bbbswnc.org or highlands@bbbswnc.org. • Saturday, January 18: The National Theatre of London presents “All My Sons” by Arthur Miller, 1:00 P.M. Tickets available at highlandspac.org or highlandsperformingarts.com or at the door. Highlands Performing Arts Center is located 507 Chestnut Street. • Friday, January 24: African Children’s Choir to perform new program “Just As I Am” at 6:30 P.M. at Community Bible Church, 3645 Cashiers Road, Highlands, (828) 526-4685, africanchildrenschoir.com. No tickets. Donations appreciated. • Saturday, January 25: The National Theatre of London presents “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” by William Shakespeare, 1:00 P.M., Tickets available at highlandspac.org or highlandsperformingarts.com or at the door. Highlands Performing Arts Center is located 507 Chestnut Street. • Saturday, January 25: Chef Dinner at HalfMile Farm by Chef Joe Kindred of Kindred in Davidson, North Carolina, and Stephen Satterfield of Miller Union in Atlanta, Georgia. Dinner is $155 per person, plus tax and gratuity. To make your reservation or for more information call (828) 787-2635 or (828) 787-2916. •Friday, January 31: Betsy Paul Art Raffle drawing featuring a watercolor by Tranny Robinson, 5:00 P.M., (828) 743-0880. • Saturday, February 1: MET Opera features Gershwin’s “Porgy & Bess,” 12:55 P.M. with a pre-opera discussion at 12:30 P.M. Tickets
available at highlandspac.org or highlandsperformingarts.com or at the door. Highlands Performing Arts Center is located 507 Chestnut Street. • Friday, February 7: Dive In Movie Series, 6:30 P.M., Highlands Rec Park’s Swimming Pool. Admission $5 and includes a bag of popcorn. For more information, call (828) 526-1595. • Saturday, February 8: The National Theatre of London presents “Fleabag,” written and performed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, 1:00 P.M., Tickets available at highlandspac.org or highlandsperformingarts.com or at the door. Highlands Performing Arts Center is located 507 Chestnut Street. • Saturday, February 15: Annual Sapphire Valley Outhouse Race. Festivities begin at 11:00 A.M. and culminate with the race at 3:00 P.M. North Carolina Barbecue served starting at 11:00 A.M. and the afternoon fun will continue with live music and a parade of entries. Admission is free. Details available at skisapphirevalley.com. • Saturday, February 15: Chocolate CookOff, noon to 2:00 P.M., Albert CarltonCashiers Community Library. $6 charge to attend and taste at the event. For more information, contact Bonnie Zacher at bjzacher@bellsouth.net. • Saturday, February 22: The National Theatre of London presents “Present Laughter,” Noël Coward’s provocative comedy. 1:00 P.M., Tickets available at highlandspac.org or highlandsperformingarts.com or at the door. Highlands Performing Arts Center is located 507 Chestnut Street. • Saturday, February 22: Chef Dinner by Hugh Acheson of Athens, Georgia, The Farm at Old Edwards. Dinner is $165 per person, plus tax and gratuity. To make your reservation or for more information call (828) 787-2635 or (828) 787-2916. • Saturday, February 29: MET Opera features “Agrippina” by Hande, 12:55 P.M. with a pre-opera discussion at 12:30 P.M. Tickets available at highlandspac.org or highlandsperformingarts.com or at the door. Highlands Performing Arts Center is located 507 Chestnut Street. •Saturday, February 29: Betsy Paul Art Raffle drawing featuring a watercolor by Dianne Elges, 5:00 P.M., (828) 743-0880. • March 19-21 and March 26-28: Highlands Cashiers Players March Dinner Theater, 6:30 P.M., Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center auditorium. Performed between courses of dinner served at The PAC. Tickets are $48, which includes tax, highlandscashiersplayers. org more information.
See website for details: www.highlands-cashierscalendar.com
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WEEKLY EVENTS EVERY MONDAY • Highlands Mountaintop Rotary, 5:30 P.M. Episcopal Church 500 Main Street, Highlands. EVERY TUESDAY • Dulcimer Club, 9:00 A.M., at Kelsey Hutchinson Park. (828) 743-3797 • Dulcimer Lessons - Intermediate Class 10:00 A.M., Beginners Noon, Highlands United Methodist church, (828) 787-1586. • Highlands Rotary Club, Noon, Highlands Community Center. • Duplicate Bridge, 1:00 P.M., Albert Carlton Library. (828) 7430215. • Movies, Highlands Playhouse 1:00, 4:00, 7:00 P.M., (828) 5262695. • Highlands Writers Group, 3:00 P.M. downstairs conference room at The Bascom. Contact Bud Katz, 828-526-3190. • Community Dinners, 6:00 P.M. Highlands Community Building. No charge for the meal. EVERY WEDNESDAY • Rotary Club of Cashiers Valley, 8:00 A.M., Cashiers United Methodist Church, (828) 743-2243. • Children’s Storytime Hour 11:00 A.M. Albert Carlton Library, 828) 743-0215. • Cashiers Quilters Guild, 12:30 P.M., St. Jude Catholic Church. • Duplicate Bridge Games, 12:45 P.M., Highlands Civic Center. • Mah Jong Games, 1:00 P.M., Albert Carlton Library, (828) 743-0215. • Movies, Highlands Playhouse 1:00, 4:00, 7:00 P.M., (828) 526-2695. • Bluegrass with Nitrograss, 7:30 P.M., The Ugly Dog Pub in Highlands, (828) 526-8364. EVERY THURSDAY • Movies, Highlands Playhouse 1:00, 4:00, 7:00 P.M., (828) 5262695. • Highlands Skating Rink, 1 to 8 P.M., (828) 526-3556. • Free Movie, 3:40 P.M., Albert Carlton Library, (828) 743-0215. • NAMI Appalachian South support group meeting 6:45 to 8:15 P.M. at 14 West. Palmer St., Franklin, (828) 526-9510. • Live Music, Tug’s Proper, (828) 526-3555. • Bluegrass 7:00 P.M., The Dog Pub in Cashiers, (828) 743-3000. EVERY FRIDAY • Duplicate Bridge Games, 12:45 P.M., Highlands Civic Center. • Movies, Highlands Playhouse 1:00, 4:00, 7:00 P.M., (828) 526-2695. • Highlands Skating Rink, 1 to 10 P.M., (828) 526-3556. • Live Music, 6:00 to 11:00 P.M., Hummingbird Lounge, (828) 787-2625. • Live Music, The Ugly Dog Pub in Cashiers, (828) 743-3000. EVERY SATURDAY • Movies, Highlands Playhouse 1:00, 4:00, 7:00 P.M., (828) 526-2695. • Highlands Skating Rink, 1 to 10 P.M., (828) 526-3556. • Live Music, 6:00 to 11:00 P.M., Hummingbird Lounge, (828) 787-2625. • Live Music 8:00 P.M.. The Ugly Dog Pub in Cashiers, (828) 7433000. • Live Music 9:30 P.M. Ugly Dog Pub in Highlands, (828) 526-8364. EVERY SUNDAY • Highlands Skating Rink, 1 to 5 P.M., (828) 526-3556. • Movies, Highlands Playhouse 4:00 P.M., 7:00 P.M., (828) 526-2695. • Live Music, 8:00 to 10:00 P.M., Hummingbird Lounge, (828) 787-2625.
THINGS TO DO
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THINGS TO DO
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THINGS TO DO
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ACCOMMODATIONS Whiteside Cove Cottages....... ARTS Highlands PAC ......................
Highlan
Mill Creek Gallery & Framing....... Smitten.................................... The Bascom........................... REAL ESTATE Country Club Properties.......... John Cleaveland Realty.......... Landmark Realty Group.......... Meadows Mtn. Realty............. White Oak Realty Group......... Pat Allen Realty Group ........... RESTAURANT / BAR Altitudes Restaurant................ The Log Cabin......................... Meritage................................. Mountain Fresh........................ Nectar Juice Bar..................... Rosewood Market..................... The Kitchen CarryAway and Catering..................................... The Ugly Dog Pub...................... Wild Thyme Gourmet ............... Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro. SHOPPING ACP Home Interiors..................... Bear Mountain Outfitters............ Brookings Fly Shop.................... C.Orrico..................................... Cabin Couture......................... Classic Links & Luggage.......... Jannie Bean Fine Custom Jewelry.
HighlandsFineArt&EstateJewelryCorp.
Martha Anne’s..........................
Dry Sink....................................…
Highlands Kids............................
McCulley’s on the Hill..............
Dutchman’s Designs................
Highland Hiker..........................
McCulleys Main Street.............
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HIGHLANDS NC
nds Map
Mirror Lake Antiques................
TJ Bailey’s..................................
Creative Concepts Salon...............
Peak Experience............... ……
Whole Life Market....................
Highlands Visitors Center................ Highlands Aerial Park...............
Spartina 449....................... …… Spice & Tea Exchange...................
SERVICES
The Summer House..................
Dauntless Printing ...................
Warth Construction..................
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ACCOMMODATIONS High Hampton Inn & Country Club .................................................... Innisfree Bed and Breakfast By-the-Lake ................................................... Laurelwood Inn ............................................... ARTS FireMoss Pottery ............................................. Mountain Mist Gallery ........................................... REAL ESTATE Betsy Paul Properties ............................................. Landmark Realty Group ........................................ McKee Properties ........................................... Silver Creek Real Estate Group ..................... RESTAURANTS Sapphire Brewery & Pub .............................. The Ugly Dog Pub .......................................... The Zookeeper Bistro ........................................ RETAIL A Jones Company........................................... Afternoon Delight .......................................... Bee Bags and Such ......................................... Bella Cotn .......................................................... Bird Barn and Gift Emporium........................ Blue Ridge Bedding/ Carolina Rustic Furniture ............................... Bounds Cave........................................................... Brooking’s Cashiers Village Anglers .................. Cashiers Farmer’s Market ............................. Consignment Market ........................................ Fiddlehead Designs ................................................ Gray Lighting & Woodwork......................... Gracewear Collection .................................... Highland Hiker ................................................ Honeybee Home ............................................ Josephine’s Emporium ................................. 44 | December 2019 | thelaurelmagazine.com 36 | Winter 2020 | thelaurelmagazine.com
Interior Enhancements ................................ Lenz Gifts & Linens .................................................. McCulley’s ......................................................... Narcissus ............................................................ Nearly New ....................................................... Nora & Co........................................................... Rusticks. ............................................................. Sawyer Family Farmstead ...............................
CASHIERS NC
CASHIERS VALLEY NC
Summer Place Antiques ................................. The Look Boutique ........................................... Town and Country General Store .................................................. TJ Bailey................................................................ Victoria’s Closet ...................................................... VC for Men ................................................................. The Village Hound ............................................
Vivianne Metzger Antiques ......................... Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming ....................... Zoller Hardware .................................................. SERVICES Cashiers Chamber ............................................. Dargan Landscape Architects/ Dovecote Gardens ...................................... Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming ....................... thelaurelmagazine.com | December 2019 | 45 thelaurelmagazine.com | Winter 2020 | 37
THE ARTS
CLOUDS, REFLECTION & LIGHT BY DONNA RHODES
An almost preternatural awareness of the natural glories all around her and a poet’s sensibilities allow Wanda Cooper to capture stunning images like Laurel’s Winter 2020 Cover.
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T
he Cooper team makes a huge impact on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. While Chuck delivers the sound of Highlands, WHLC, to our ears, Wanda captures its visual beauty on her phone for our welcoming eyes. Her most recent eye-popping contribution is the stunning cover of this month’s Laurel. It’s one thing to take amazing photos. It’s quite another to snap them while sliding down an icy path, dragged by Carson, the Cooper’s enthusiastic pup. Wanda’s trigger finger, encumbered by the leash, is jerked this-wayand-that as she attempts to immortalize a vista whose perfect light might last only a matter of seconds. When she’s not out walking, sliding, and shooting, Wanda’s managing the station’s books. Or she’s monitoring magnificent views from her picture windows, upstairs and down, phone/camera at one hand, computer at the other. She waits for a breath-taking sunset, a flock of waterfowl, a picturesque snowy evening, or an iconic fall or winter scene. Mother Nature never disappoints. And neither does Wanda. “I started doing more than just snapping
about five years ago,” she says. “I am passionate about shooting. I happened to see a rainbow a couple of weeks ago while sitting on the sofa. I had to run upstairs, fling open the door, and shoot. It didn’t last but a couple of moments, and my timing was perfect.” Frequently, during sunset’s prime-time, Carson walks with her around Harris Lake and condos, straight up Spring Street. She often yells, “Wait a minute! Wait a minute, Carson.” He stops while she frames a superb image, composed of clouds, reflection, and light. “I got a shot, of which I am very proud, over the retention pond. Who would have thought? A retention pond photo! Photos are everywhere … right down my street or right out my window.” It’s no wonder. Her home is positioned in clear view of Satulah and Bear Pen Mountains. Catch Wanda at the Laurel’s January’s reception Friday, January 3, 5:30 to 7:00 P.M. at Studio 106, 478 Dillard Road. Everyone is welcome to attend as long as you RSVP to publishers@thelaurelmagazine.com.
Wanda Cooper
THE ARTS
MASTERFUL PERFORMANCES AT PAC BY MARY ADAIR TRUMBLY HIGHLANDS PAC
The Highlands Performing Arts Center offers a full slate of MET Opera performances and a quartet of plays from London that are both hilarious and heartbreaking.
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“Porgy & Bess”
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T
he MET Opera will present three operas during January and February for your enjoyment. All MET Operas are on Saturdays and all begin at 12:55 P.M. with a pre-opera discussion at 12:30 P.M. January 11 brings “Wozzeck” by Berg. This 20th-century shocker stars baritone Peter Mattei in the title role, and soprano Elza van den Heever as the long-suffering Marie. Groundbreaking visual artist and director William Kentridge unveils a bold new staging set in an apocalyptic wasteland. Its running time is 1:57. On February 1, it’s a new production of Gershwin’s “Porgy & Bess.” This modern American masterpiece has its first Met performance in almost three decades. Director James Robinson’s stylish production transports audiences to Catfish Row, a setting vibrant with the music, dancing, emotion, and heartbreak of its inhabitants. Running time is 3:40. “Agrippina” by Handel is offered on February 29. As the imperious title empress, mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato leads the Met premiere of Handel’s tale of deception and
deceit. Sir David McVicar’s wry new production gives this Baroque black comedy a politically charged, modern updating. It’s running time is 4:10 The National Theatre of London will present four plays during the first two months of 2020. On January 18, audiences will enjoy “All My Sons” by Arthur Miller, starring Sally Field and Bill Pullman. Written in 1947, this is the sad post-World War II story about the Kellers, a seemingly “All-American” family. The father, Joe Keller, has concealed a great sin. “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” by William Shakespeare is presented on January 25. The course of true love never did run smooth. A feuding fairy King and Queen of the forest cross paths with four runaway lovers and a troupe of actors trying to rehearse a play. On February 8, it’s “Fleabag,” written and performed by Phoebe WallerBridge (Fleabag, Killing Eve) and directed by Vicky Jones. “Fleabag” is a rip-roaring look at some sort of woman living her sort of life. “Fleabag” may seem oversexed, emotionally unfiltered and self-obsessed, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
On February 22, look for “Present Laughter,” Noël Coward’s provocative comedy. As he prepares to embark on an overseas tour, actor Garry Essendine’s colorful life is in danger of spiraling out of control. Engulfed by an escalating identity crisis as his many and various relationships compete for his attention, Garry’s few remaining days at home are a chaotic whirlwind of love, sex, panic and soul-searching. Tickets for all of these wonderful events are available at highlandspac. org or highlandsperformingarts.com or at the door. Highlands Performing Arts Center is located 507 Chestnut Street.
Point phone camera at QR code to purchase tickets to Highlands PAC performances.
THE ARTS
THE SUMMER’S BRIGHT STAR BY DONNA RHODES
Highlands Playhouse’s season closer is a bracing tale set outside Asheville at the turn of the 20th century, created by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell.
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et ready for a luminous new year at Highlands Playhouse with stars shining everywhere. Here’s a sneak peek at the season’s closer, a marvelous musical… the kind of production you’ve been asking for … yearning for. It’s contemporary. Its two writers are national stars, actors, performers, Grammy Award winners, and one is practically our neighbor. The play is based on a true story, jam-packed with Appalachian heart. Have you guessed it yet? Here’s a hint: the guy in its creative partnership is well-known for his earlycareer in stand-up comedy. He was a frequent host of SNL. He went on to star in movies, write books and plays, compose music for CDs (on
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which he performs instrumentally and vocally), and now is a rave-reviewed playwright. The play is “Bright Star” and, you’ve no doubt deduced the co-writer is Steve Martin, who frequents Asheville and has an abiding fondness for music of the mountains. He performs nationally with Asheville-based Steep Canyon Rangers. His co-creator, Edie Brickell, is an accomplished singer-songwriter herself, who’s composed movie soundtracks, performed nationally in touring bands, and is married to another musical powerhouse, Paul Simon. The play is based on a true story, though the writers took poetic liberties. The musical evolved from an
album, “Love Has Come for You,” which Martin and Brickell wrote in 2013. “Bright Star” had a successful run on Broadway and is now performed in theater houses all across the nation. The emotional storyline, looselybased on “The Iron Mountain Baby,” is set in the mountains around Asheville (not Irondale, Missouri where the event happened). From a moving train a five-day old baby fell 50 feet into Big River. William Helms, a 72-year-old Civil War vet found the baby, miraculously still alive. He and his wife nursed him back to health and named him William Moses Gould Helms. The story spread and scores of women tried to claim the baby, but, for his protection, the
THE ARTS
Helms’ quickly adopted him. He grew up in Missouri, became a printer, married, had a son, and eventually moved to Texas where he lived out his life. In 1902 his story inspired a folk song, “The Ballad of the Iron Mountain Baby.” Though his legendary past pursued him, Moses had no fondness for it. The Moses story was the springboard for “Bright Star,” which has all the elements musical theater buffs adore – extraordinary tunes, an emotional roller coaster ride, tragedy, healing, and a bright, shining star finale. Get ready for its Highlands debut, August 6 -22. Tickets for the exciting 2020 season will be available April 1. Stay tuned to highlandsplayhouse.org for all the up-todate information about its plays, movies, and special events.
Point phone camera at QR code to view highlights From Bright Star at San Diego’s Old Globe.
Edie Brickell and Steve Martin
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THE ARTS
EXCITING YEAR FOR THE LEAGUE BY ZACH CLAXTON | HIGHLANDS CASHIERS ART LEAGUE
The Art League of Highlands-Cashiers welcomes the new year with a new slate of officers, a sustained level of energy and excitement.
W
hile the Art League’s 2019 season has ended, behind the scenes its board is busy with plans for 2020. Changes are coming that we are confident will lead to continued growth and enhanced programs. First, at its October meeting, the Art League membership elected two new officers for 2020. John Bauknight will assume the Presidency, replacing Jim Kinard who served multiple years with distinction in that office. While Jim will enjoy a well-earned rest from the duties of President, we look forward to his continued advice and guidance. John Bauknight is well-qualified to assume this new role, having years of business experience and community service in the Highlands area. Following executive positions with Goodyear Tire and Rubber,
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John was owner of Highlands Hardware and Builder’s Supply. To name only a few of his community service roles, John is a Past President of The Rotary Club of Highlands, and has served as Chair of Highlands Special Olympics, Vice-President of Highlands Community Child Development Center, Chairman of the Highlands-Cashiers Hospital Board and Chairman of the Evergreen Foundation serving individuals with mental health, intellectual disabilities and substance abuse in the seven western counties of NC. The membership also elected Cynthia Berg as Vice-President. Cynthia has served many years on the Art League Board, including the officer position of Treasurer. Her enthusiasm for the Art League is manifested in the tireless energy she brings. One duty of
the Vice-President is to arrange for the interesting speakers that present interesting and informative presentations at the League’s monthly meetings, April through September that are given at the Bascom and are free and open to the public. Cynthia will replace Patty Calderone, who served several years in that role and as a past President. We look forward to Patty’s continued involvement in a leadership role with the Art League. Finally, the membership also voted to allow giclees at the League’s 2020 summer and fall shows. The board is working on revisions to the show exhibition rules to support this and other changes. 2020 promises to be an exciting new year for the Art League. Visit artleagueofhighlands-cashiers.com for more information about the Art League and its activities,
THE ARTS
HUBIE VICKERS Fortune and a proud fiancée ensured that folk artist Hubie Vickers’ works would be displayed at Around Back at Rocky’s Place.
W
hat a stroke of luck we have had at the gallery, Around Back at Rocky’s Place. For quite a while, we have had the cutest couple as customers. One day, the fiancée of the couple convinced her significant other to share his artistic talents with us. Had she not, we never would have known, as the artist is very humble. Let us introduce you, folk art aficionados, to Hubie Vickers, aka Mustard, clay sculptor. Hubie is a North Georgia artist, born in Atlanta and raised in Gainesville. His father was a mortician and owned several funeral homes. As his profession dictated, he had to perform facial reconstruction on occasion. Fascinated by this, inspiration struck a young (around 6 years of age) Hubie to try his hand at sculpting. When his father became ill, Hubie continued his education at a private boarding school where he was formally introduced to art. He was greatly encouraged by his art teacher,
and art awards quickly came his way. After high school, life happened and put his artistic talents on hold for a bit. He completed a stint in the Army, serving in Operation Desert Storm. He piddled around with his sculpting through the years, but again, for family members, and primarily for himself. His fiancee, Sara, suggested he share his work with us at the gallery as she thought it a good fit. Needless to say, we were blown away with his creativity and ability to sculpt anything we threw his way. To date, the gallery favorites have been his fish…trout, gar, crappie, and catfish…a must for collectors in North Georgia. Also favorites with customers are his seasonal pieces, silly pumpkins, guinea hen ornaments, Christmas gnomes, and his octopuses. The gallery feels like it struck gold when we found Hubie Vickers and his awesome creations. Let it be noted that Hubie is not opposed to special orders and has satisfied several patrons with such. Stop by the gallery and see the above-
mentioned pieces as well as our personal favorite, “Quail in the Moonlight.” Visit Around Back at Rocky’s Place at 3631 Highway 53 East in Dawsonville, Georgia. You can call us at (706) 265-6030 or check online at aroundbackatrockysplace.com. Gallery hours are Saturdays from 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. and Sundays from 1:00 to 5:00 P.M.
THE ARTS
PAPER, PRAISE & PROMISES BY DONNA RHODES
Chrissy Picklesimer’s new artistic vision is predicated upon an appreciation of the possibilities of paper and an unshakable faith.
Y
ou may know Chrissy Picklesimer as the big-hearted, bliss -ciplined baker who can charm an apple off a tree right into the most delicious apple streusel buns that your tempted-tongue ever tasted. Streusel is just one of her many mouth-watering masterpieces to show up on the shelves of Bryson’s Grocery. But taste buds far and wide are currently in mourning, for Chrissy is forsaking her baking business (health issues) and focusing on a new endeavor, a beautiful new
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line of hand-crafted jewelry called Paper, Praise & Promises. As Chrissy believes, God doesn’t close a door without opening another. Eyes wide and faith unfurled, she happened upon a stunning African necklace, so divinely inspirational she took its lead, grateful for the talented Kenyan woman who set her creative mind racing in new directions. Sometimes the simplest materials make the most striking art. But even more powerful are the hidden symbols placed within.
Chrissy’s beads are made of paper …exquisite paper. And on one precisely-scissored slice, hidden from sight, is a Bible scripture, tucked away like a perfect tiny prayer. A copy of the verse accompanies the necklace so that the buyer can select words personal and meaningful. Chrissy’s Designer/Partner in this new venture is her husband, Benson, a descendant of the original Benson Picklesimer who settled in the region late 180 0s. Chrissy says, “My husband has been vital
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GHOSTS AND GROTESQUES Feel that shiver down your spine? Nope, it’s not the winter’s chill – it’s “Ghosts and Grotesques,” the latest production of the Highlands-Cashiers Youth Theater, set for the last week of February at the Highlands Performing Arts Center. For more information, visit highlandspac.org or call (828) 526-9047.
H Chrissy Picklesimer
in his working alongside me to bring all this about. He deserves an enormous amount of credit for his contribution of prayers and ideas. “We are launching into this project, which feels like a ministry. Ten percent of the profits will go to missions. Our thanks to family and friends for their encouragement, supportive prayers, and amazing contributions, among them, Marjorie Christiansen who did some knock-out photos. Recently we did a venue at the wine shop, and Stephanie at Molly Grace hosted us at a trunk show.” While you may miss Chrissy’s baking, you will marvel at what has taken its place. Contact her at Picklesimer2@ yahoo.com.
ighlands-Cashiers Youth Theater will be staging “Ghosts & Grotesques” on the last week of February at the Highlands Performing Arts Center. The show, a collection of staged stories assembled by Youth Theater Director Megan Potts, is a collection of stories and poems infused with a touch of the unearthly. Though its emphasis is the eerie and the unexpected, there’s nothing that’s too frightening for the youngest members of the audience. Ms. Potts will hold auditions for actors who’re in grades seven through high school in early January. Students from Highlands School, Blue Ridge School, Macon Middle School, Franklin High School and home schooling programs are invited to participate. For details, email pacyouth.highlands@gmail.com The show marks the continuation of the PAC H-C Youth Theater program of educating young performers, stage assistants, and technicians. In the past few years, its students have learned stage fighting techniques from a certified stunt coordinator (who also works on the television program “The Walking Dead” and in the film “The Fate of the Furious). Last year they tackled Shakespeare, offering scenes from “Romeo and Juliet” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” The Youth Theater’s lessons have inspired its participants to go on to study Performing Arts and Technical Theater in college. “Ghosts & Grotesques” will feature the tales of “The Highwayman,” “The Troll,” “Irish Folktales,” and “The Tell-Tale Heart.”
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THE ARTS
DINING
DIVE ON IN BY MERIDITH ELDER
JD Barton’s Dive In food trailer at The High Dive is a free-wheeling opportunity to serve up new dishes and traditional comfort foods with imagination and panache.
“
The Dive In” food trailer at The High Dive officially opened in November, providing concessions for the dive bar, which previously did not have a food option, and giving Highlands locals and visitors a late-night place to grab a quick meal. The Dive In menu was created by Kay Craig, owner of The High Dive and The Ugly Dog Pub, and local chef Gabe Murray and features a variety of sandwiches and hotdogs playfully named after movie titles, such as the “Blue Velvet” (Havarti and blue cheese, prosciutto, with a thin spread of fig preserves on sourdough bread), the “Get Him to the Greek” (feta cheese, roasted tomatoes, Greek olives, chopped fresh basil and pesto on a croissant), and the “Old Yeller” (all beef hot dog, cheddar cheese and chili & herb mayo on a bun).
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The menu also features a traditional cup of tomato and basil soup and the not-so-traditional item aptly named “The Drop”: Fritos topped with chili queso ranchero and served in the bag. JD Barton is the sole operator of the food trailer, acting as chef, as well as taking orders. According to Barton, the most popular menu items are the “Die Hard 3” (cheddar, smoked gouda and Havarti with bacon on sourdough bread) and the “Fight Club” (turkey, prosciutto, bacon, pepper jack cheese, spinach, tomato and salt and vinegar chips with chipotle mayo on sourdough bread). Barton has a long history in the restaurant industry, working in both kitchens and in the front of house. He worked in his first restaurant at age 13 and spent most of his adult life working for
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So far, his specials have included dishes such as duck bacon high-end restaurants out West. wontons with a white wine-wild berry preserve with ginger sauce However, Barton is no stranger to Highlands. Originally from Anon top, and pan-fried fingerling poderson, South Carolina, he grew up tatoes, smashed with garlic butter spending summers hiking and fly fishand fresh herbs, and topped with ing in the Highlands area. house-made queso, bacon, and For the past five years, Barton has …Taking traditional items and parmesan. spent his winters at his family’s house putting a unique twist on them. “We’ll be doing everything for in Clemson. specials, from tacos to quesadillas This past year, he extended his stay to different styles of panini-pressed into the summer, working at 4118 and sandwiches” Barton says. “We’re then The Ugly Dog. trying to keep it casual; southernWhen he was offered the job runinspired cuisine, comfort food.” ning the food trailer, it was “perfect timing,” Barton says. He says that The Dive In will extend its operating house in the In addition to the regular menu, he runs nightly specials at summer, but through the winter, they will be open from 5:0 0 P.M. The Dive In. to 12:30 A.M. Wednesday through Friday and noon to 12:30 A.M. “Right now, we’ll be doing a little bit of everything,” Barton says. on Saturday. “Taking traditional items and putting a unique twist on them.”
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OSTEEN LEGACY OF LEARNING BY MARLENE OSTEEN
The generosity of the late Louis Osteen, adored here on the Plateau and everywhere culinary greatness is celebrated, resonates in the lives of so many young people he touched.
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n partnership with the Culinary Institute of America, Highlands Food & Wine Festival has established the Louis Osteen Legacy Scholarship. This is a new scholarship at CIA specifically designed for students from the Highlands/Cashiers area that hope to follow Louis’ extraordinary culinary path. Louis Osteen, the James Beard award-winning chef, whose influential South Carolina restaurants elevated the Southern cuisine we
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Louis Osteen
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enjoy today, passed away in Highlands in 2019. His influential work at the Pawley’s Island Inn and later at the Charleston Grill, was the foundation of the restaurant scene in Charleston and throughout the South. While Louis had no formal culinary training, he was very connected to French cooking and applied those techniques to Southern cuisine. In addition, Louis loved guiding those working in his restaurants and coming up in the restaurant scene. Highlands Food & Wine is actively raising funds for the scholarship. Please consider donating and helping the next generation of great chefs follow in Louis’ footsteps. We’ve asked our own Marlene Osteen, Louis’s widow, to tell us more about this remarkable man and his extraordinary legacy. Luke Osteen, the passionate and enthusiastic editor at Laurel, asked me to write “a couple paragraphs” for this story “about what Louis meant to me” Alas, after 44 years of co-habitating it would take a tome, so I write instead on behalf of those whose shoulders Louis touched along their way. I write on behalf of Marion, a CPA
now, but years ago a frightened victim of the South Carolina education system whom you ushered through enrollment at Johnson & Wales; I write on behalf of Essau, who taught you to listen when you can’t read, how to put your ear to the deck oven and hear the crème brulee bubbling when it’s done; on behalf of South Carolina Governor Joe Riley, on who’s literacy council you served; and on behalf of the hundreds in our zip code who you helped overcome this handicap; on behalf of Katherine who baked her first cookie in your bakery more than three decades ago and today bakes tens of thousands of cookies; on behalf of Michael, who first came through your restaurant 39 years ago and was there leading your last kitchen six years ago with equal passion and skill; on behalf of the “Susan’s,” who you championed when they left your employ to open their restaurant, which they did artfully for more than 25 years; on behalf of Sarah, your “fourth daughter,” whom you mentored and encouraged and loved from the age of 14; on behalf of Forrest, whom you taught how to gently form a crab cake; on behalf of Tyler, who started
in your kitchen and went on to TV stardom; on behalf of Deenie, whom you sent to school in San Francisco to learn baking and wild yeast starters; on behalf of photographer Frank, who today stays true to your teaching that “simple, unfussy is beautiful;” on behalf of Nick and Rachel, forever thankful to assist you at the James Beard House; on behalf of the thousands who relished your pimento cheese, adored your ‘light as air’ biscuits, and devoured your crab cakes and inhaled your shrimp and grits. And I write as well on behalf of the wisdoms you shared – to respect our ingredients and each other even more; to speak softly in the kitchen and loudly in defense of oneself; to keep our knives sharp and our wits sharper; to “have fun,” that more’s not better, that being better is better; and, in the end, if you can’t have a smile on your face, then try to keep one in your heart. Point phone camera at QR code to donate to the Louis Osteen Scholorship Fund.
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QUICK AND W EASY ROLLS BY LUKE OSTEEN
A gift from the Alaskan backcountry has made life a bit tastier here on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.
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ilma Gordon, forever known to generations of Highlands children and their parents as Miss Wilma, the teacher/administrator/driving force behind Highlands Preschool, is a local institution. In fact, when she retired from Highlands Preschool, it was renamed The Gordon Center for Children in her honor, three classrooms for kids ages one to five. But Miss Wilma is also known around town for her celebrity baking status. Virtually every bake sale for a local cause will feature something from her kitchen. Community meals will almost always serve several varieties of her breads, and her cinnamon rolls have made bearable many a long, boring committee meeting at Highlands United Methodist Church. It turns out that Miss Wilma’s passion for baking grew out of her deep love for educating children. In the 1950s, she and her husband John, eager for adventure, agreed to become the sole teachers of a remote Alaskan Eskimo village. How remote? They received food and pantry supplies, medicine (husband John, an educator by training, became the village’s de facto ER doctor, always on call),
oil, and household necessities, once a year, when a supply ship could get through the ice-bound Arctic Ocean. “I knew the basics of cooking, but I had no idea about baking,” she says. It was the nature of the Alaskan backcountry that she had to be prepared to house and feed unexpected guests – oil workers, engineers, geologists, doctors and nurses – who could arrive at any time. That meant that she had to have something to eat – something baked – at all times. Fortunately for Miss Wilma and her family and the scores of guests that would arrive on her doorstep, the previous tenant of their house had left behind a well-worn booklet from the 1920s : “The Art of Making Bread by The Northwestern Yeast Company.” Inside this answered prayer were pages and pages of recipes for breads and rolls that still pop up all over the Plateau. “The Art of Making Bread by The Northwestern Yeast Company” allowed Miss Wilma to be recognized throughout her village and a large swath of western Alaska as a wonderful hostess and a compassionate neighbor, whose lessons extended far beyond her one-room schoolhouse.
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Quick and Easy Rolls
(Creates two dozen medium-sized rolls)
Ingredients: 1 Package of Yeast 1 Cup of Lukewarm Water 1 Teaspoon of Sugar 1 Cup of Scalded Milk 2 Teaspoons of Salt 4 Tablespoons of Sugar 4 to 6 Tablespoons of Shortening 1 Beaten Egg (if desired) 6 (or more) Cups of Sifted Flour Directions: Pour yeast into the lukewarm water, add 1 teaspoon of sugar, stir and let stand about 5 minutes. Pour scalded milk into mixing bowl, add the salt and remaining sugar, and the shortening. Let cool. When the milk is lukewarm, add 3 cups of flour and beat smooth Add softened yeast and beat again. Next, add the beaten egg if used. Then stir in 3 more cups of flour. Knead into a smooth, elastic dough, using a little more flour or liquid if necessary, but keeping the dough somewhat softer than for bread. Let the dough rise in a greased bowl until doubled. Fold down and let rise again until nearly doubled. Shape into rolls. Let rise in greased pans until doubled. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes in a moderately hot oven – 375 to 400 degrees.
Daughter Sabrina Cashion and Wilma Gordon
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CHEF’S SPOTLIGHT
BY ASHLEY STEWART
A pair of exquisite dinners at Old Edwards Inn will keep your taste buds dancing during the fallow months of winter.
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inter has settled in here on the Plateau. While there are sure to be a few people daring enough to brave the bitter cold to explore the mountains and waterfalls, the rest of us are looking for something a little warmer and cozier to while away the long nights. Old Edwards Inn knows the best way to spend an evening is with warm food, jovial vibes and good friends, so join them in January and February for their signature dinner events. On Saturday, January 25, enjoy a spectacular dinner at Half-Mile Farm by Chef Joe Kindred of Kindred in Davidson, North Carolina, and Steven Satterfield of Miller
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Union in Atlanta, Georgia. Kindred was named #1 in Charlotte Magazine’s “50 Best Restaurants in Charlotte.” A night full of flavor awaits you as these outstanding chefs bring their contemporary and upscale cuisine of the New South to Half-Mile Farm. Dinner is $155 per person, plus tax and gratuity. On Saturday, February 22, Hugh Acheson of Athens, Georgia, will be cooking up his favorite dishes at The Farm at Old Edwards. As the co-owner of 5&10 Restaurant in Athens, Georgia, Empire State South in Atlanta, as well as Spiller Park Café coffee shop in Atlanta, Acheson was named Best
New Chef by Food & Wine Magazine in 2002, and awarded Best Chef Southeast by the James Beard Foundation in 2012. He has developed a style of his own, forging together the beauty of the South with the flavors of Europe. To tide you over until the dinner, check out Acheson’s podcast, “Hugh Acheson Stirs the Pot” – where he sits down with food personalities, entertainers and activists in restaurants and at kitchen tables across the country to talk about what they’re eating and what’s eating them. Dinner is $165 per person, plus tax and gratuity. To make your reservation or for more information call (828) 787-2635 or (828) 787-2916.
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Hugh Acheson
Joe Kindred
Steven Satterfield
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Your Guide to the Restaurants of Highlands & Cashiers
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HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS 4118 Kitchen and Bar • 64 Highlands Plaza • (828) 526-5002
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The Bistro at Wolfgang’s • 460 Main Street • (828) 526-3807 $-$$ • • • • NC • • 5 Fire + Water Restaurant • Reservations Required • (828) 526-4446 $$$ • • C • 24 Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar • 465 Main Street • (828) 787-2537 $ $ • • • C • • 54 The Kitchen CarryAway & Catering • 350 S. Fifth Street • (828) 526-2110 $-$$ $-$$ • • 57
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Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden • 445 Main Street • (828) 787-2525 $ $$ $$ • • • •
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Meritage Bistro • 490 Carolina Way • (828) 526-1019 $-$$ $-$$ $-$$ • • • Midpoint • 330 Main Street • (828) 526-2277
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On the Verandah • Highway 64 (Franklin Road) • (828) 526-2338 $-$$ $-$$ • • • • • NC • • • 55 Tug’s Proper • 310 Main Street • (828) 526-3555 $ $ $-$$$ • • • • C • • 52 The Ugly Dog Pub • 298 South 4th Street • (828) 526-8364 ¢
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Wolfgang’s Restaurant • 460 Main Street • (828) 526-3807 $-$$ • • • • NC • • 5 CASHIERS AREA RESTAURANTS The Ugly Dog Pub • 25 Frank Allen Road • (828) 743-3000 Zookeeper • 45 Slabtown Road • 828-743-7711 ¢ $
Minimal, most entrees under $10 Moderate, most entrees $10-$15
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Pricing Guide
HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS Altitude’s at Skyline Lodge - (828) 526-2121 Asia House - (828) 787-1680 Bake My Day Bakery & Cafe - (828) 487-4633 Bella’s Junction Cafe - (828) 526-0803 Bistro on Main/Main Street Inn - (828) 526-2590 The Bistro at Wolfgang’s - (828) 526-3807 Bryson’s Deli - (828) 526-3775 Buck’s Coffee Cafe - (828) 526-0020 Dusty’s - (828) 526-2762 El Azteca - (828) 526-2244 El Manzanillo - (828) 526-0608 Fire + Water Restaurant - (828) 526-4446 Fressers Courtyard Cafe - (828) 526-4188 Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar (828) 787-2537 The Kitchen CarryAway & Catering - (828) 526-2110 Lakeside Restaurant - (828) 526-9419 The Log Cabin - (828) 526-5777 M-brace - (828) 787-1212 Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden - (828) 787-2525
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$$ Deluxe, most entrees $15-$20 $$$ Grand, most entrees over $20
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Takeout Only
Meritage Bistro - (828) 526-1019 Midpoint (828) 526-2277 Mountain Fresh - (828) 526-2400 On the Verandah - (828) 526-2338 Pescado’s - (828) 526-9313 Pizza Place - (828) 526-5660 Paoletti’s - (828) 526-4906 Rosewood Market - (828) 526-0383 Tug’s Proper - (828) 526-3555 Subway - (828) 526-1706 SweeTreats Deli - (828) 526-9632 The Ugly Dog Pub - (828) 526-8364 Wild Thyme Gourmet - (828) 526-4035 Wine Garden at Old Edwards Inn - (828) 787-2525 Wolfgang’s Restaurant - (828) 526-3807 CASHIERS AREA RESTAURANTS Buck’s Coffee Cafe - (828) 743-9997 Canyon Kitchen - (828) 743-7967 Chile Loco - (828) 743-1160 Cornucopia Restaurant - (828) 743-3750 Cork & Barrel Lounge - (828) 743-7477
C Casual
Dress Code J
NC Nice Casual Jacket
El Manzanillo - (828) 743-5522 Hunt Bros. Pizza at Cashiers BP - (828) 743-2337 JJ’s Eatery and Canteen - (828) 743-7778 Mica’s Restaurant - (828) 743-5740 On the Side at Cashiers Farmers Market - (828) 743-4334 The Orchard - (828) 743-7614 Randevu Restaurant - (828) 743-0190 Restaurant at Greystone Inn - 828-966-4700 Sapphire Mountain Brewing Company - (828) 743-0220 Slab Town Pizza (STP) - (828) 743-0020 Subway - (828) 743-1300 The Blind Mule - (828) 553-8978 The Falls Cafe and Grill - 828-877-3322 The Library Kitchen and Bar - (828) 743-5512 The Ugly Dog Pub - Cashiers - (828) 743-3000 Table 64 - (828) 743-4135 Wendy’s - (828) 743-7777 Winslow’s Hideaway - (828) 743-2226 Zookeeper - (828) 743-7711
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THE BEAUTY OF THE BEARS BY ED BOOS
Whether Black Bears or Grizzly Bears, these bruins command attention and demand respect.
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uring the past 10 years my wife, Cindy, and I have spent a considerable amount of time photographing wildlife in many areas of the United States and Canada. Our favorite subjects have always been Black and Grizzly Bears. At one time, Black Bears existed in every state in the union. Today, their present range is a fraction of what it once was. Nevertheless, they still can be found in portions of half of the states. Fortunately, many Black Bears live on the Highlands Plateau. Sightings
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here are frequent. On the other hand, Grizzly Bears can only be found in Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Alaska. At one time their range included almost every state west of the Mississippi River. Cinnamon Black Bears are Black Bears with a cinnamon coloration. They are sometimes mistaken for grizzly bears due to their similar color. They are only found in the western United States. Someone told us years ago that the way to tell the difference between a Black Bear
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Chris Wilkes
BEGINNING ANGLER QUESTION BY CHRIS WILKES | HIGHLAND HIKER
The dead of winter brings to the forefront a lot of important questions that every fly-fisher needs to address.
W and a Grizzly Bear was to go up to it and give it a swift kick in the rear end. If the bear goes up a tree, it’s a Black Bear. If you go up a tree, it’s a Grizzly Bear. We would not advise anyone to try it though. You may not make it to a tree and there are better ways to tell the difference. We’ve been fortunate to have the opportunity to photograph many Black Bears in the Appalachians as well as the Rocky Mountains. We have also photographed quite a few Grizzlies in Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park. The Grizzly Bear in the snow was taken in Yellowstone recently and the Black Bear was taken in our yard in Scaly Mountain.
elcome to January in Western North Carolina. Cold temperatures, lots of precipitation, and more cold temperatures. Not what one thinks of as the ideal time for fly fishing. It can be especially frustrating for the new angler, as you probably just got a bunch of brand new equipment for Christmas and, short of a trip to warmer climates, nowhere to use any of it. (Truth be known, the fishing can be better in the dead of winter than it is during the peak summer temps. Trout like cold water, and do still feed, but frozen eyelets and de-icing line is not how I like to spend my day.) Its during this time that new anglers should ask themselves a very important question. What are you looking to get out of this? The answer is very important to what steps you need to take in preparation for Spring. Is it to catch every fish in the water? Be honest.
If it is, then you should probably take a casting lesson or two during the winter months to make sure you’re ready to make the proper presentation in the prime fishing months. You should also make sure the course you take spends some time on basic knots and fly selection, as these have much more to do with landing a trophy fish than making a long pretty cast does. Do you just want to get out of the house and go stand in some pretty places? Again, be honest. A lot of the allure of fly fishing is the solitude. Even if you like to go with your buddies, you are usually spread out far enough over the river that idle chit-chat isn’t part of the day. This is a good reason to get into fly fishing, as catching lots of fish takes experience and know how, standing in a river and taking in amazing scenery is something all of us can do right away! P.S. Experienced anglers should remember to do this once in awhile, too.
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RAINBOW FALLS BY BRIAN O’SHEA | PLATEAU DAILY NEWS
Rainbow Falls makes for a breathtaking day trip.
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ainbow Falls is an incredible 150-foot waterfall that’s located in the Pisgah National Forest but visitors reach the trailhead through Gorges State Park. The 7,500-acre park in Lake Toxaway is known for long-distance trail hiking, biking, and horseback riding along the Horse Pasture River. However, the trail to Rainbow Falls isn’t long distance and makes for a perfect day trip, a quick 1.5 miles and you’re there. Rainbow Falls was given its name because if hikers catch the falls in the right sunlight, a large rainbow spans its face. Upon arrival, hikers can see the Falls from a number of angles; including walking to it’s base, viewing it from a misty overlook, or hiking to the top. Some of the side trails are steep and the mud is
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slippery, use caution. Approximately a half mile beyond Rainbow Falls is Turtleback Falls, which is a smooth waterfall popular during the summer months as swimmers can slide down falls’ face into a calm pool. The trail to Rainbow Falls is listed as strenuous on several sites online and there is some elevation change, but it’s comparable to something like Glen Falls in Highlands. The trail is well-marked with signage in all the right places. Follow the orange circle until an obvious intersection. Blue goes left and orange goes right, go right. Hiking along the Horse Pasture River gives hikers plenty of side trails to wander along the riverbank or climb large rock formations in the riverbed. Along the way, hikers pass an unnerving sign that reads you’re leaving Gorges State Park. You’re still on the correct trail. Again, Rainbow Falls is located in the Pisgah National Forest, but the trailhead is within Gorges State Park. Visit Gorges State Park from Cashiers by heading east on Highway 64 for approximately 10 miles, then hang a right (south) on Highway 281. The park entrance is about two miles down on the left. Follow the signs to the trailhead.
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WINTER PANSIES BY JEANNIE CHAMBERS | THE ACCIDENTAL GARDENER
Let’s rock! Diminutive Pansies take center stage during the fallow season of Winter.
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little mulch on. after the second year of growth. This is just ith a real name like Viola x witConsider the mulch like the robe a prize another trait of its anthem: Live hearty, then trockiana , the pansy sounds like fighter wears when waiting to get back into die. Okay, I made that last part up, but think she’s got a split personality. The the ring. Where do you think Rocky got his about it. They’ve got a name like Pansy – word pansy comes from the French word, name? Wittrockiana, of course. pensee, meaning thought, After getting the witts knocked or remembrance. out of him anyway. Okay, I made A very sweet looking flower, Did you know that Margaret Mitchell named that up too. delicate, diminutive, and some the heroine of “Gone with the Wind” Pansy The little dark, almost black people tend to see it as a weed. blotches on the face of the flowBut bring in its Latin name witbefore changing it to Scarlett? er are often called faces. I retROCKiana, and you may undermember as a child thinking the stand why this flower is featured Pansies talked to one another in in the Winter Issue. Granted, the the garden. they’re made fun of for being weak lookname wittrockiana is actually derived from The Pansy has been the topic of many ing and weedy, but underneath, they’ve the Swedish botanist, Veit Brecher Wittrock poems and artwork over the years and is got this super-hero type attitude that says after being studied at length by Lady Mary deserving of every accolade given. Did ‘I’ll show them!’ and they do. The rest of the Elizabeth Bennet and James, Lord Gamyou know that Margaret Mitchell named flowers back off silently and die away while bier, but I like to think the Pansy is rockin’ the heroine of “Gone with the Wind” Pansy the Pansy lives on through the most brutal the garden scene in winter when almost before changing it to Scarlett? time of the year. Take that, all other flowers! all of the other flowers have taken a long Enjoy a small winter garden of pansies Pansies can thrive in zones 4-8 and can winter’s nap. and let them rock your world as you rememsurvive light freezes and snow. If a long Although these plants are considered ber those you love. snowy period is forecast, you can put a perennial, they usually die off like an annual
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KNEE HIGH NATURALISTS BY WINTER GARY | HIGHLANDS BIOLOGICAL STATION
The wonder and glories of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau’s natural heritage are revealed to the young participants of The Knee High Naturalists Program.
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you like, but when you do join us, come manage to stay warm in Highlands durue to the amazing feedback we reprepared to go outside rain or shine, being the winter. This program can involve ceived about our Knee High Naturalcause you never know where the fun may crafts, games, and even our Nature Cenists program this past month, we have lead us during this outdoor educational ter animals, depending on the topic of decided to extend it to keep the fun going! program. Join us on Friday Families with young children mornings to see what fun and (suggested age three to five interesting topics we will cover years) can join us every Friday Families with young children can join us every on our next adventure! morning from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 Friday morning from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. The Highlands Nature Center is A.M. at the Highlands Nature part of the Highlands Biological Center as we combine stories, Station, a multi-campus center walks, and activities for their litof Western Carolina University. tle ones. This program is free for For more information about Knee High the week. No registration is necessary and all and a wonderful opportunity to get to Naturalists or other programming at the children of all abilities are welcome to atknow more about your local environment Highlands Biological Station, visit our webtend, however, all children must be acwhile enjoying time with your family. site highlandsbiological.org, like and folcompanied by an adult. It is not required Each week, we will cover a different low us on Facebook, or call the Highlands that you and your little one come to evseasonal topic such as why the leaves Nature Center at (828) 526-2623. ery session; come to as many or as few as change colors or how native animals
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WINTER WATERFOWL BY WILLIAM MCREYNOLDS HIGHLANDS PLATEAU AUDUBON SOCIETY
The advent of the New Year brings an entirely new cast of avian showstoppers.
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Canada Geese
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inter holds its own special avian delights in and around our local wetlands: lakes, ponds, flooded fields and estuaries. At Mirror Lake in Highlands, for instance, you can often spot any number of Wood Ducks, Black Ducks, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Merganser and Mallards. Nearby Lake Junaluska, which offers both scenic vistas and a slightly warmer climate than the lakes and ponds on the HighlandsCashiers Plateau, plays winter host to Ruddy Ducks, Gadwalls, American Widgeon and Osprey. These birds sport surprising colors and headgear. They are also much larger than most perching birds due in part to the amount of body fat they carry to get them through lean winter days. Spotting them from water’s edge is easy this time of the year and, with a good pair
of binoculars, you can even ogle them for the warmth and comfort of your car. Canada Geese, pictured left, are common in our area on lakes and golf courses. They are almost always seen in flocks at ground level or in characteristic high flying V formations. Within their flocks they are highly social and hierarchically organized. The Canadas’ loud honks often announce their departures and arrivals. Mallards are also numerous in the winter. The Mallard is the ancestor of practically all domestic ducks. They are monogamous and usually pair in the fall but can be observed courting and pair-bonding in the winter months as well. Strong fliers, they can reach speeds of 50 miles per hour. Only female Mallards quack; males emit a much quieter, raspy sound. Their diet, like that of Canada Geese, is varied depend-
ing on the season and includes seeds, aquatic vegetation, insects and grain. Our winter waterfowl attest to the tenacity and robustness of life. In spite of this, their numbers are decreasing due largely to loss of habitat which is itself tied to changes in atmospheric temperature and human land use. We conserve our colorful waterfowl and the balances of nature by protecting and conserving the natural wetlands in our area. The mission of the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society is to provide opportunities to enjoy and learn about birds and other wildlife and to promote conservation and restoration of the habitats that support them. HPAS is a 501 (c)(3) organization. Visit website at highlandsaudubonsociety.org for information on membership and all activities.
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HISTORY
A MATTER OF FAITH BY DONNA RHODES PHOTO COURTESY OF HIGHLANDS HISTORICAL SOCIETY
THE FIRST CHURCH BUILDING IN HIGHLANDS, WHICH WAS SHARED IN 1885 BY THE METHODISTS AND THE BAPTISTS.
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HISTORY
The early days of Christianity on the Plateau were marked by strife, but the Methodists and Baptists reached an accommodation that resonates even today, nearly 140 years later.
Ann Mckee Austin speaking in the Cashiers Church of the Good Shepherd about their cemetery.
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ell over a century ago Elder F. M. Jordan wrote: “There is a fine valley at the head of the Tennessee River, a fine farming country, thickly settled. The Baptists once held that country pretty generally. But they fell out amongst themselves, and jars, discord, and strife crept in among them, and they excluded some, and some took letters and went to Clayton. And while they were at that, the devil and the Methodists came in and were about to take the country. Some of the brethren came to see me, to get me to go and help them out. So I went. I found the Baptists and the Methodists, each with an organization, worshipping in an old dilapidated meeting-house. I commenced preaching twice a day, and the spirit came upon the people in great power. Soon there were bright professions of faith in Christ, and a time of great rejoicing.” Squabbling Baptists? The devil and the Methodists? Maybe it wasn’t a kinder, gentler time after all. But the spiritual growth and transition purported in this letter, written in 1884, coincides with the founding of Highlands, its schools, and churches. On March 12, 1876, “good citizens” formed a Highlands Sunday School which met in the log Law House (today’s Wright Square). Three years later a group of Presbyterians began meeting in the new school house. Six years after that denominations began building their own sanctuaries, no longer relying on town buildings to house them. Today a wide spectrum of faiths, Protestant, Catholics, Judaism, and others, is represented in a number of sanctuaries and temples in the region. I am certain Elder Jordan would be quick to take a lighter tone, for the Baptists have settled in and the Methodists aren’t cavorting with a single forked tail. To learn more about devilishly difficult times and other times, divine, at our heavenly heights, read Ran Shaffner’s “Heart of the Blue Ridge” or visit highlandshistory.com.
CEMETERY RAMBLE BY JANE NARDY | HISTORIAN, CASHIERS HISTORICAL SOCIETY
An irresistible program by local historians Carol Bryson and Ann McKee Austin illuminates the passions that have always accompanied life in the Cashiers Valley.
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he Cashiers Historical Society’s October 2019 Cemetery Ramble started inside the Church of the Good Shepherd Episcopal Church with a lecture on the history of the church presented by Carol Bryson and Ann McKee Austin. Afterwards, the group went outside and visited the first burial sites in the cemetery, placed there in 1876. Within a plot surrounded by a wrought-iron fence are the graves of four toddler girls of the Thomas Grimshawe Sr. and his wife, Helena Grimshawe Family, residents of the Whiteside Community of Cashiers. Their names were Olive who was 4; Bapsie, 7; Helena 2; and Mary, 6. All four girls died within eight days of each other of the dreaded disease, diphtheria. Next to the girls in the same plot is the grave of their great aunt, Anne Eastwood who died in 1892. Another interesting early grave is the nearby one of Henry Heigham, a friend of the Grimshawe family who, like the Grimshawe family, was originally from England and had immigrated to Canada before coming to Cashiers. The oldest cemetery in Cashiers is the Lower Zachary Cemetery, located on what was Col. John A. Zachary’s property, and dates its earliest burials to the 1860s. Col. Zachary, prior to his death in 1872, directed that anyone, who was sympathetic to the Union during the Civil War, would be banned from burial in his burying ground. So, when in 1873, the Union sympathizer and son of Col. Zachary, Alexander “Andy”
Zachary’s wife, Sarah Isabella Wilson Zachary, died, she became the first person laid to rest in a new Zachary cemetery on land owned by her husband. Located very close to the Lower Zachary cemetery, the new burying ground was eventually referred to as the “Upper Zachary Cemetery.” Note that neither of the Zachary cemeteries had a close church affiliation and all financial upkeep of these cemeteries comes from money collected each year at the Zachary family reunion. As time permitted, a few of the graves in the Upper Zachary Cemetery were visited and stories from the occupant’s lives were told as follows: Alexander “Andy” Zachary, who died 1895 at age 89, sold Wade Hampton III his first piece of land in Cashiers Valley in 1855. Jeptha P. Slatten died in 1883 at age 45. He was a Confederate soldier who lost one of his arms during a Civil War battle. John Lee Rogers died 1994 at age 74. He ran one of the gas stations at the Cashiers Crossroads where his great wit provided outof-control, side-grabbing laughter to everyone who pulled in to get gas. Thompson Roberts “T.R. or Tom” Zachary, died in 1921 at age 71. During the Civil War, at age 14, he guided a number of Union officers, who’d escaped from a South Carolina Confederate prison, from Cashiers Valley to Knoxville, Tennessee. Walking through deep snow, the group arrived at Knoxville on January 1, 1865, where a picture was taken of the exhausted escapees and their guides.
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HEALTH
Patti Wheeler, MD
2020 HEALTHY RESOLUTIONS A few sensible steps can help ensure that your heart remains healthy throughout the new year.
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ith the start of a new year, many of us make resolutions to pursue healthier lifestyles. Since February is Heart Month, we turned to Patti Wheeler, MD, for some advice on how to ensure that our hearts are healthy and happy throughout the year. Dr. Wheeler has served generations of Plateau residents, and she’s come up with some easy ways to keep our hearts operating as they were designed. These steps can be incorporated into your New Year’s resolutions and ultimately become part of your everyday routine. The most important thing you can do is to decide to stop smoking. “This can make an enormous difference in your future, reducing the risk of heart disease by 50 percent,” says Dr. Wheeler. She emphasizes that even if you’re unsuccessful in your first attempt, you just need to try again, and again after that. “It’s not easy, and if you fail at first, you may feel that that’s it – but don’t allow yourself to feel defeated,” she says. “There’s nothing to prevent you from try-
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ing again. You may just need to build your willpower and find the right smoking-cessation program.” Another simple step toward heart health is resolving to exercise for 30 minutes three times a week. “It doesn’t have to be anything too strenuous – simply walking is wonderful exercise,” says Dr. Wheeler. “If you can just commit to walking three times a week for 30 minutes, I think you’ll be amazed at how it makes you and your heart feel.” Dr. Wheeler’s next suggestion is perhaps almost as difficult as smoking cessation – cutting back on calories and eating more sensibly. “Eating healthier is a resolution that almost everyone makes,” says Dr. Wheeler. She adds some encouragement for those who feel their commitment wavering. “Being mindful of how much you eat can help you make good decisions. Just pay attention. “Everyone eats too many carbohydrates – we average about 70 grams a day. Cut back on those, and
eat more protein.” If you’re also getting a good workout, you should also notice that you’re getting a better night’s sleep, helping to ensure that there’s less stress in your life. “So you want to make sure you’re getting enough hours of sleep every night – it makes sure that you start your days with less stress and more energy,” says Dr. Wheeler. “If it seems like you should be waking up refreshed, but you’re starting each day feeling fatigued, tell your doctor. This could be a sign of sleep apnea – the repeated stopping and starting of your breathing while you sleep.” Dr. Wheeler can prescribe therapies that’ll help you control this condition, which help ensure you get a good night’s sleep and the possibilities for a healthy 2020 remain bright. Take the heart health quiz at missionhealth.org/heart to assess your risk factor. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Wheeler, call Mission Community Medicine Highlands at (828) 526-4942.
HEALTH
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HEALTH
THE ANTIBIOTIC DILEMMA BY DR. SUE AERY
AERY CHIROPRACTIC & ACUPUNCTURE
Some straight talk about the promise and pitfalls of antibiotic use and misuse can make all the difference in your body’s ongoing battles to keep you healthy.
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here is a lot of sickness out there! Have you noticed that colds linger longer and the flu is feared by all? There is a lot of news covering the resistant strains of bacteria that no longer respond to antibiotics like they did years ago. The reason that this is happening is due to over-prescribing of antibiotics, often on the patients’ request. This is not only a concerning topic, but it’s terribly
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Dr. Sue Aery
HEALTH
misunderstood. I will often be asked the question, “Should I get a flu shot or a pneumonia shot?” My answer is always, “It depends on how you feel about injecting your body with chemicals and dead virus,” and it’s very personal – not a question that I can answer for anyone but myself – not even for my 93-year-old mother. The same goes with antibiotics use, but I will offer some education around when antibiotics should be used, when they are not necessary and what other options are readily available, and how it’s important to catch bronchitis before it becomes pneumonia! A strep throat infection is also a bacterial infection and responds well to antibiotic treatment. The bacterial infections are “live” infections and the bacteria needs to be identified and treated with a specific strain of antibiotic in order to respond. This is where it gets tricky, because overuse of antibiotics makes it harder to determine which one the infection and person
will respond to effectively. Often times we hear of one person having to endure several rounds of antibiotics until the bacterial infection is finally defeated! A virus, on the other hand, is a “dead” infection, one that invades the cells and causes a lot of body ache and fever. Unless there is a secondary bacterial infection, the virus will not respond to an antibiotic and an antibiotic prescription should not be given, even if the patient requests it. Most viruses must run their course and it’s very important to keep your immune system strong and healthy so the virus has the least impact. Most doctors know when it’s a virus rather than a bacterial infection and they can test for both! Taking too many doses of antibiotics can and will deplete the function of the immune system, especially if the patient does not take a course of probiotics to restore the reserves of good and healthy bacteria that are vital for proper function and defense. Understand that yogurt will not suffice, although it
may make the dose of antibiotics easier for the stomach to handle. Some lingering side effects of too much antibiotics and not enough probiotics may show up in a yeast infection or, even worse, a secondary infection because the immune system is so weakened by the first course of drugs as well as the original infection in the body. That’s one reason that it’s recommended that you complete the full dose of antibiotics, even if you feel better half-way through the prescription. As I say to all of my patients, please read the labels and ask the pharmacist about what has been prescribed and what are the side effects. This is very important so that you can be advised, educated and be your own health advocate. Seek nutritional counseling; ask your medical professional for advice. Take note of what type of infection you have and take good care of your body and immune system before, during and after an infection, no matter what kind you have. Be healthy!
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HEALTH
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HEALTH
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HOMES AND LIFESTYLES
BALANCED BY NATURE The Village Green Commons is the new storybook setting for weddings, located in the heart of Cashiers. BY SHAYNA BIGAZZI |
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he imagination runs wild when you first enter the new Village Green Commons. It’s a chameleon of an event venue in the heart of Cashiers containing the Commons Main Hall, Gardens, and Outdoor Pavilion and Lawn. With the aim to continue the Village Green’s mission to “preserve and enhance land for our community’s civic, spiritual, academic, recreational and cultural activities in order to maintain the quality of life for all citizens and visitors to the greater Cashiers area,” it will host weddings, concerts, private events, theater productions,
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Altaterra Events
job fairs, festivals, lecture series, art exhibits and so much more. Designed by Chapman Design Group, the Commons Main Hall is equipped with a state-of-the-art audio visual system including screens and sound, making this an ideal spot for a large corporate meeting or movie screening. The pièce de résistance is the beautiful and graceful grand piano perched on the stage like a king watching over his court. This open air and multi-use venue provides flexible year-round settings and a rejuvenating feel for any function or visit.
Balanced by nature, the Main Hall entry is flanked by two opposing garden areas – one with a curious and inspiring wind chime and seating area, and the other with a soothing mill-stone fountain and swings. This warm welcome was the brainchild of Mary Palmer of Dargan Landscape Architects and Byrd Landscape Design. No stone was left unturned in dreaming up this beautiful venue. For more information or to inquire about events at the Village Green Commons please reach out to Executive Director Ann Self at (828) 7433434 or info@villagegreencashiersnc.com.
HOMES AND LIFESTYLES
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hayna Bigazzi is the owner of Altaterra Events, a luxury event production company serving the Southeast, Europe, and the Caribbean. Before starting on her own she worked with the Special Events team at Old Edwards Inn & Spa. Earlier in her career, Shayna lead the Turks and Caicos launch of Martha Stewart’s Beaches & Sandals Weddings (a partnership between the publishing giant and Luxury Resorts in Turks and Caicos and across the Caribbean). Shayna resides in Highlands with her husband and two island pups.
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HOMES AND LIFESTYLES
THE PURSUIT OF UNDERSTANDING BY MARTHA PORTER
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t is difficult to pick a beginning point for this story because I could easily trace my interest in writing, and especially writing on theological subjects, to being a very early reader who was also immersed in Bible stories and what I saw as many contradictions. This awareness of the contradictions in the stories as well as the contradictions in the lives of those who revered them led me to be a questioner. Many years down the road I would wonder about this God people talked about who, in their thinking, required a death to pay for sins committed. The stories began to make less and less sense. It was in part to pursue, if not answers, at least more in-depth understanding of these stories, that I left an 18 year career in education to attend seminary at Emory University. Imagine my surprise and relief when I heard the stories approached from a historical, literary perspective and was encouraged to research texts taking into account the author, the intended au-
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dience, the form, and the context. Even more liberating was the requirement that in our writing all references to God be made in gender neutral terms. I learned about feminist theology, and saw the value and impact of the religious language that we use. I discovered a whole world of writers, books, lecturers, and preachers and other resources that expressed a “progressive” theology that turned on its head the fundamentalist perspectives I had known. What I thought was missing, however, were resources that would fall into a “devotional” category and still reflect the progressive view. Lent was a particularly difficult period in the church year because of its emphasis on sacrifice (for me that meant no chocolate) and how suffering was the price of redemption. That view was embodied particularly in The Nicene Creed in the words “…for our sake he was crucified….” I decided to take the Creed apart, phrase by phrase, breaking it into 40 segments to fit the period of Lent and
in brief reflections include both history and theology and contemporary, progressive perspectives on each segment. From that effort came “The Nicene Creed: Ancient Words in the Light of Modern Faith.” A second book with the same structure and goal, “The Soul of the Psalms,” drew upon the Psalms as the content, offering both a historical perspective and a contemporary rephrasing of 40 lament psalms. My most recent book, which has been available for Advent, is titled Advent in the Real World, and offers brief vignettes and reflections for each day of Advent. Some might be concerned that raising questions or turning a critical and creative light on tradition would distance people from their faith. It has been my experience that this process rather allows people to cease trying to reconcile contradictions or rigid belief systems and instead live more comfortably and creatively with ambiguity and the rich metaphors held in our religious history.
HOMES AND LIFESTYLES
Highlands author Martha Porter, whose latest book, “Advent in the Real World,” was released last year, is a graduate of Candler School of Theology at Emory University, with a focus on pastoral counseling and the role of language in the formation of self. She trained at the Pastoral Psychotherapy Institute and worked at the Center for Religion;and Psychotherpy, both in Chicago. A Fellow in the American Association of Pastoral Counseling, Martha’s first career was in education. She holds a doctorate in education and has taught math from 8th grade to graduate level statistics in college. She and her husband, Peter Ray, also an ordained minister, continue to lead the Contemporary Theology class at the Church of the Incarnation in Highlands.
Martha Porter
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HOMES AND LIFESTYLES
INVEST IN YOUR FAMILY AND COMMUNITY BY MARY BETH BRODY | EDWARD JONES FINANCIAL ADVISOR
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hy do you invest? For many people, here’s the answer, “I invest because I want to enjoy a comfortable retirement.” And that’s certainly a great reason, because all of us should regularly put money away for when we’re retired. But you can also benefit by investing in your family and your community. Let’s start with your family members, particularly the younger ones. How can you invest in their future? One of the best ways is to help send them to college. A college degree is still a pretty good investment: The average lifetime earnings of a college graduate are nearly $1 million higher than those of someone with a high school degree, according to a study by the U.S. Census Bureau. To help your children or grandchildren pay for any college, university, vocational school or other postsecondary education, you may want to open a 529 savings plan. With this account, withdrawals are federally tax-free, as long as the money is used for qualified higher education expenses, including those
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from trade and vocational schools. (However, if you withdraw some of the earnings on your account, and you don’t use the money for qualified expenses, it will be taxable and can also incur a 10 percent federal tax penalty.) Plus, you retain control of the funds until it’s time for them to be used for school, so if your original beneficiary chooses not to pursue some type of higher education, you can name a different eligible beneficiary. Another way to invest in your family is to help your adult children avoid feeling obligated to provide financial assistance to you. For example, if you ever required some type of long-term care, such as an extended stay in a nursing home, could you afford it? The average cost for a private room in a nursing home is more than $10 0,0 0 0 per year, according to a study by Genworth, an insurance company. And Medicare typically pays very few of these expenses. So, to avoid burdening your adult children – while also preserving your own financial independence – you may want
to consider some type of long-term care insurance. Moving beyond your family, you may want to invest in the social fabric of your community by contributing to local charitable, civic, educational or cultural groups. Furthermore, your gift will be more appreciated than in years past because one of the chief incentives for charitable giving – a tax deduction – was lost for many people due to tax law changes, which raised the standard deduction so significantly that far fewer people chose to itemize deductions. However, you might still be able to gain some tax benefits from your charitable gifts. To name one possibility, you could donate financial assets, such as stocks that have risen in value, freeing you of potential capital gains taxes. In any case, contact your tax advisor if you’re considering sizable charitable gifts. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
HOMES HOMES AND AND LIFESTYLES LIFESTYLES
LET’S WAIT AND SEE BY DONNA RHODES | ILLUSTRATION BY NORMA JEAN ZAHNER
This decade’s Official Slogan leaves plenty of wiggle room for decisions both deeply personal and global.
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very decade has its theme-word or phrase: 1960s: Bummer 1970s: Can you dig it? 1980s; Awesome 1990s: As if 2000s: Word 2010s (the Cell Phone Gen): Swag, Emoji, APP, Hashtag, Selfie . . . just pick one. 2020s: Let’s Wait and See (already established this decade and guaranteed to spill over into the next) “Let’s wait and see” is code language for either I don’t know or I know, but I am not
saying, because I will have to field questions about it, and I’d rather keep things off-balance. It can be corporate-speak, a cover-up for a misstep, or simply a refusal to share info to keep people guessing. It also works well for borrowing time. I confess I used it as a parent/grandparent to postpone a decision. “Ice cream! Ice cream!,” the kids would beg. “Maybe later. Let’s wait and see,” I’d say. “Let’s wait and see” originated in the Olduvai Gorge.
“Broot! Shall we lie, steal, or kill?” Broot: “Let’s wait and see.” Which was Broot’s code language for, “Go ahead, steal the fire, do what you have to. Just remember I need plausible deniability.” Today LW&S dines in presidential palaces worldwide. It is the cloud over every weather prediction. It surgically inserts itself into doctors’ prognoses. And it weaves its whispers into world conflict at the wave of a flag. What will happen in the 2020s? Will the phrase of that decade be as predicted? Well … I guess we’ll just have to wait and see.
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SERVICE DIRECTORY
ACCOMMODATIONS
ACCOMMODATIONS
BEAUTY
BEAUTY
CABINET DESIGN
CLEANING
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SERVICE DIRECTORY
CLEANING
CONSTRUCTION
HEATING/COOLING
HOME CARE
HOME DECOR
PICTURE FRAMING
PRINTING
REAL ESTATE
ROOFING
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GIVING BACK
LOOKING AHEAD BY DANIELLE HERNANDEZ-JUAREZ BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS
Little Sister Claudia, Former Little Sister Ashlyn, Rudolph and Highlands BBBS Council President Ricky Siegel
Danielle’s one-year anniversary with Big Brothers Big Sisters marks the perfect occasion for planning an event-filled year ahead.
SUMMIT CHARTER RECEIVES GRANT Summit Charter School receives a grant from Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation to fund a school nurse.
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ummit Charter School, a tuitionfree K-10 public charter school on the Cashiers-Highlands Plateau, today announces it has received a grant from the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation to fund a full-time school nurse for one year. Zandra Wingfield has fulfilled the full-time position and started on October 16. This is the first time the school has had the funding capacity to hire a nursing position. Summit strives to graduate students who are academically prepared, engaged in the community, healthy, and strong in character. “We are extremely grateful for the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation’s generous support of our wholechild focus at Summit.,” says Kurt Pusch, head of school. “For the first time in our school’s history, Summit is able to staff a full-time school nurse to directly serve student and staff wellness on our campus. This would not be possible without the generous support of the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation.” Zandra Wingfield graduated from the University of Florida with a Bach-
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elor of Science in Nursing and is a Registered Nurse. Her previous work experience includes roles at the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at UF Health, Bayada Home Health, Lifepoints Corp, and Highlands Family Medicine. She is married to Eric Wingfield and has a three-year-old son named Samuel who attends Cashiers Valley Preschool. “I feel tremendously honored and grateful to be joining the Summit Family! In the four years that my family and I have lived in the area, we have grown to love the unique bond that our small community shares and cannot imagine living anywhere else,” says Wingfield.“ Robin Tindall, executive director and CEO of the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation, says, “Our Foundation is pleased to support Summit Charter School’s commitment to nurturing the health of its student body. This initiative directly aligns with our focus areas of improving access to healthcare and support for education. We wholeheartedly congratulate them on putting our grant funds to use in fulfilling this important need.”
GIVING BACK
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’m here at the one-year anniversary of my position as Big Brothers Big Sisters of WNC Program Coordinator of Cashiers and of Highlands, and what better way to celebrate than with with the amazing families and supporters within the BBBS community? I took on this role in February of last year, thinking I had an idea of what to expect, having accepted this position with a full elementary education background and a love for children and learning, as well as having a very relatable upbringing and background to those within our communities and program. Little did I know, this program and all its participants would teach me so much, humbling me beyond words. The opportunity to work within the diversity that is the Plateau in this capacity has allowed me to learn even more about my neighbors. Members of the Highlands-Cashiers Pla-
teau community are purpose-driven, they are dedicated and passionate about life, family and education. To be given the chance to be more involved within the Cashiers and Highlands areas is a gift – working directly with children, families and schools is a considerable blessing. Thank you, to both program participants and supporters, for your continued encouragement and graciousness. Thank you for the trust you’ve afforded me to allow me to work with your children and to be part of your lives, and to equally be an important part of mine! Your warmth and love for the program and community are evident, and I am so fortunate our paths have crossed, and for the opportunity to work with you. I’m looking forward to a wonderful 2020! With that being said, on behalf of the BBBS programs in both Cashiers and Highlands, I’d like to invite you to keep your
eyes peeled throughout the coming winter months for community-related events, beginning with the recent Tree Lighting ceremony in Highlands on November 30. Our program kiddos and their Bigs helped ring in the ceremony alongside Santa and Mrs. Claus! Next on the calendar – Corn Hole & Swimming at the Highlands Recreation Center on January 17, from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M., hosted by the Highlands Big Brothers Big Sisters program. This is a community event. Corn hole boards, food and music are provided – all you need is your bathing suit and a towel! We’re looking forward to seeing you! If you’d like to learn more about becoming part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, or how you can contribute, please visit bbbswnc.org or call me, Danielle Hernandez, program coordinator, at (828) 3999133, or via email at cashiers@bbbswnc.org or highlands@bbbswnc.org.
Zandra Wingfield and Kurt Pusch
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GIVING BACK
3,400 ACRES OF CONSERVATION BY GARY WEIN | HIGHLANDS-CASHIERS LAND TRUST
Thanks to remarkable donations of magnificent patches of land, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust is preserving the Plateau’s precious natural heritage.
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iece by piece, our mountain vistas, waterways, forests and trails are being conserved by Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust. Over the last 110 years, HCLT has protected over 3,400 acres in over 100 places. In 2019, we completed three conservation easements (landowner retains ownership) and two land donations, each has high conservation value, such as rare species, diverse habitat or landscape connectivity but also holds special significance to the donor. Michael and Sheila Padgett donated a 34-acre easement adjacent to national forestlands and an existing HCLT conserved property. The site has an amazing population of Fraser’s sedge. Michael is the son of Ranger Bob Padgett for whom the magnificent Padgett Poplar, located in Horse Cove, is named. The second easement is 10-acres and owned by Glenda Zahner. It acts as a buffer
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to another existing conserved property. Glenda, a beloved local conservationist, was married to Bob Zahner, who was a highly revered forester and conservationist. The third easement is home to many small streams and four rare plant species, along with a couple of grotto caves and rock outcrops. HCLT has accepted two land donations that we are very excited about. Alan and Helen (Butchie) Neely donated 6.6 acres that contain a natural bridge. This natural bridge is a giant granite slab 150 feet long and 20 feet in diameter that is suspended above the ground by boulders at each end. This acquisition was funded by a Mountain Revolving Loan Fund mini-grant from the Conservation Trust of NC. We use the word “aquisition” because for every property we accept, we ask for a stewardship donation. This helps us with the stewardship costs incurred – every-
thing we protect is conserved forever and of course there’s a cost involved. This is one reason we are very choosy about what we conserve, it goes through several committees, the board before approved. The second property is a game changer for the Land Trust and was donated by Hillrie Quin. It encompasses some 30 acres of land, and also includes a tractor, Polaris Ranger UTV and wood working shop –– all housed within a barn located on the donated property. The valuable equipment means we are no longer dependent on others for mowing and grading our roads. Kyle Pursel, our stewardship coordinator, is excited about monitoring HCLT properties from the comfort of the Polaris, which will be a big help as a couple of our easements are large and require miles of walking. We are already working on projects for 2020. Stay tuned! To learn more visit hicashlt.org.
GIVING BACK
DOG WALKING AT CHHS BY DAVID STROUD | CASHIERS-HIGHLANDS HUMANE SOCIETY
One more reason to love dogs – they’re remarkably faithful personal trainers who’ll work for a kind word and an occasional Milk Bone.
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ne of the most common New Year’s resolutions goes something like this: “Starting now, this is the year I’m going to lose weight and get into shape!” To help you achieve that goal, there is a multi-billion-dollar industry out there anxious to separate you and your pocketbook, from gym memberships and equipment purchases, to shakes, supplements and pills. At the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society, we have a better idea, and it won’t cost you a single penny. Plus, you can enjoy clean, fresh air, take in the wondrous beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and best of all, tap into your love of animals and what we call “unleashing your animal magnetism”. What is this magical, no-cost way to trim a few pounds and get that heart rate going? Join the CHHS dog-walking volunteers!
Walk one of our shelter dogs throughout our beautiful rolling 10-acre campus, and you will not only achieve your fitness goals, but you will help our canines become more
…enjoy clean, fresh air, take in the wondrous beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains… socialized and learn behaviors that will increase their chances of finding a forever home. As an additional incentive, when you start as an on-site dog walker this winter you’ll be in great shape to join our CHHS Hikers for Hounds when we go off-site in the
spring for group hikes all across the Plateau. So forget all those expensive gyms and pricey equipment, and ignore those diet pills and food membership plans. Become a Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society volunteer and walk a hound, lose a pound! Established in 1987, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit animal welfare organization located at 200 Gable Drive in Sapphire, one-and-a-half miles east of the Cashiers Ingles in between Cedar Creek Club and Lonesome Valley on Highway 64 East. For more information, visit us online at CHhumanesociety.org or call CHHS at (828) 743-5752. Tax-deductible donations to support our lifesaving work can be mailed to CHHS, P.O. Box 638, Cashiers, NC 28717.
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GIVING BACK
CARPE DIEM FARMS BY SUE BLAIR | CARPE DIEM FARMS
A deep and abiding passion for all things equine has been at the core of Sue Blair’s life.
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y reflections are my story with horses. Many have asked over the years why I do what I do. Someone yesterday said, “This is a 24/7 job, you never close.” He got it on his first visit. Horses are not pasture ornaments, they require a lot in our environment to stay healthy and happy. Winter requires more vigilance: attention to weather conditions, especially freezing temperatures and resulting ice. My journey, my soul’s connection to horses, began at the age of three in Delray Beach, Florida. Our neighbor, a seven-year old boy, had a horse named Rattler, a magical cow pony. Daily, my five-year-old brother and I joined Colin riding through the fields and cow pasture surrounding our house. All three of us fit on the saddle! I took the front position, Gary the middle and Colin the back. Rattler
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took care of us and when the boys tired of our adventure, off I’d go with my friend. It was heaven on earth. By the time I was 10, I was an accomplished rider, having taken lessons for five years and exercising 10 horses
I was to become the Highlands Horse Lady.
each summer. I was connected to the spirit of the horse and I was fearless. One of the 10 horses, a registered thoroughbred named “Highlands Lady,” was off limits for me to ride. Of course, she became my number one steed.
My father bought her for me the Christmas of ’62. For the next 24 years we shared life. At 34 she was laid to rest. I had changed her barn name to “High Hopes,” because she was mine! After her death, I rode every opportunity I had. In 1990 I met Joyce Foster, who became my friend, my surrogate mother and my riding companion. She gifted me with her two magnificent Morgan’s, Delta and Grace, who in time became the beginnings of Carpe Diem Farms, the experiential foundation which began in 1997 and continues today to “explore the human potential through equines.” Introducing people to the magic and miracle of the horse is why I do what I do, it makes me who I am and what I believe is my life’s mission. I was to become the Highlands Horse Lady.
GIVING BACK
A PARK FOR THE PEOPLE BY ANN SELF | THE VILLAGE GREEN
The Village Green is a wide-open gathering place and a unique natural oasis in the heart of Cashiers.
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Equally significant from a conservation come from all over the region to enjoy the he Village Green is a park for the people. perspective, The Village Green serves as gardens, walking paths and trails, amazIn 1992, the founders saved two acres a natural oasis. The park is an important ing public art and the expansive children’s at the crossroads of Highways 64 and environment to cultivate native plants and playground. The Village Green invites both 107 in Cashiers from commercial developpollinators. It also provides a respite for mileisurely walks and intense workouts; quiet ment. The Village Green was established grating nesting birds. It truly is an inwith the mission to preserve and tegrated ecosystem where humans enhance the land for civic, spiritual, The Village Green invites both leisurely and nature interact. academic, recreational and culturThe Village Green is a vital asset al activities. More than 25 years latwalks and intense workouts; quiet places that strengthens the village charm er, The Village Green encompasses to picnic and read; settings to celebrate of Cashiers. The Village Green is a more than 13 acres and is the emerpublic park that is privately conald heart of the community. with friends and family‌ served and operated by a nonprofit The Village Green attracts thouorganization. The Village Green desands of visitors each year. The Vilpends on donations and volunteers lage Green provides a window into to maintain the park for everyone to enjoy. places to picnic and read; settings to celepleasurable pursuits and traditions that For more information about The Village brate with friends and family; and a variety make Cashiers unique. The park is a gathGreen including a calendar of special of popular concerts, festivals, lecture series ering place for people of all ages, origins events, visit villagegreencashiersnc.com. and other community events. and economic backgrounds. People
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GIVING BACK
BENEFICIAL TO ALL CONCERNED Service Above Self is the driving principle behind The Rotary Club of Highlands’ mammoth list of projects and commitments.
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lowship of business, professional, and 3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER embers of the Rotary Club of Highcommunity leaders. FRIENDSHIPS? lands have already made their This devotion allows the club to accom4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned? New Year’s resolutions. In fact, they plish calendar-spanning projects that That mission is carried out through made those commitments when they touch nearly everyone in Highlands: joined the ranks of this venerable The Highlands Community Supper, Highlands institution. Highlands School Students of the Upon their admittance to the This devotion allows the club to Month Awards, Bingo, Downtown club, they pledged to support the Trick or Treat, Olde Mountain Christmission of Rotary to provide seraccomplish calendar-spanning projects mas Parade, Dental Program at vice to others, promote integrity, that touch nearly everyone in Highlands. Highlands School, Highlands School and advance world understanding, Teachers Supplies, Highlands School goodwill, and peace through its felAcademic Reception, Highlands lowship of business, professional, School Athletic Banquet, Scholarand community leaders. ships, Rotary Youth Exchange – Summer an ongoing series of projects that benTo help them accomplish their mission, and Year Round, Interact Club at Highefit the residents of Highlands and the they adhere to a short series of bedrock lands School; Boy Scout Troop 207, and global commmunity. principles: Service Above Self, and the apShop With a Cop. The mission of Rotary International is plication of their Four Way Test in all that The Rotary Club of Highlands meets at to provide service to others, promote inthey say and do noon on Tuesdays at the Highlands Comtegrity, and advance world understand1. Is it the TRUTH? munity Building, 869 North Fourth Street. ing, goodwill, and peace through its fel2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
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GIVING BACK
WONDERFUL TIME TO WRITE BY BUD KATZ | HIGHLANDS WRITERS GROUP
The Highlands Writers Group is a celebration of the talents of scribblers of all stripes.
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of encouraging those who have been bitten where from a handful to sometimes dozens inter on the Plateau! There’s no place by the bug to be the best of whatever sort of of us sharing our work with one another. And more beautiful, as long as there’s no writer they want to be. Some of us long to see while some folks are both dedicated and ice on the roads. our work in print or online. Others And, there’s no better time to hope to leave a legacy for future scribble or type words while the generations. Still others choose to fill forest sleeps in advance of what The Highlands Writers Group is a great way to whatever time they allot to the craft promises to be a most interesting, if in pursuit of creating something just not exciting 2020. make new writer friends, focus your voice, for their own brand of happiness. The Highlands Writers Group sharpen your craft, and find encouragement The Highlands Writers Group is meets weekly, all year long, shara great way to make new writer ing stories, poetry, essays, memoirs for your efforts. friends, focus your voice, sharpen and all else contained within the your craft, and find encouragebroad category of creative writment for your efforts. Everyone is ing. Members of the group run the invited. Weather permitting, we meet every committed (or should be), others enjoy the gamut from neophyte storytellers to multiTuesday afternoon at 3:00 P.M. in the downability to simply sit and listen to excerpts from published authors, poets and songwriters, stairs conference room at The Bascom Cennovels, completed short stories, Haikus, epic journalists and essayists. We exist to support ter for the Visual Arts, just west of downtown poems, op-eds and thoughtful essays, excaone another in the often solitary, sometimes Highlands on the Franklin Road. vated memories and everything else in befrustrating, always rewarding craft of writing For more information, contact Bud tween, read by the writer him- or herself. whatever it is we absolutely must share with Katz, (828) 526-3190, or via email at The Highlands Writers Group has been the world. budandlynn@me.com. meeting for decades with the single purpose On any given meeting day, there are any-
thelaurelmagazine.com | Winter 2020 | 97
GIVING BACK
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GIVING BACK
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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
FAITH IN THEIR MISSION BY DONNA RHODES
The worldwide audience for “Mike & Dooley in the Morning” is a resounding answer to the universal question, “Where’s the Good News?”
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he last time we visited Mike Carrier and Jeremy Dooley, they were launching a Facebook and YouTube remote broadcast called “Mike & Dooley in the Morning.” The show was off-the-cuff … and offda-chain-funny. It evolved from their daily ritual: meet, drink coffee, and poke fun at gloomy headlines. Every morning’s summary: “Where’s the good news?” So they found their own good news. They took their routine to local businesses to talk about the positive events happening around town. “Mike and Dooley in the Morning” was a social media success which exponentially grew until the duo took a step back to plan their next move. Dooley, a gifted youth pastor, felt a calling to serve at a church in Texas, so the guys hit the pause button for six months
and aired previously taped episodes of their show. In the meantime, they’d been shooting two-minute faith-based messages at the Backlot Cinema studios located in Franklin. Following their interview on “This Week with BJ Arnett” on WATC-TV 57, the station asked for some of their two-minute clips and began broadcasting in Atlanta. Faith Unveiled Network (coincidentally, FUN!) jumped on board. Mike says, “They liked us and introduced our shows to over 120 countries. Since FUN’s first airing (as of mid-November), we have been their number-one-rated show.” When Mike and Dooley aren’t doing their regular jobs they are pursuing other fun, faith-based projects like writing a children’s book, “The Adventures of Mike and Dooley,” 10 practical lessons in a delightful hardcover book with full color illustrations.
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
WATERFALL RIBBONS BY LUKE OSTEEN
A dazzling new technique and a bold artistic vision transformed Dry Falls into “Waterfall Ribbons,” a Technicolor work of art.
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he late Highlands artist Julia Daugette once told me that she was never at a loss for inspiration when considering her next painting. “What kind of artist could ever come up empty? This entire corner of Western North Carolina is one big canvas,” she said. Julia tossed out this bit of wisdom 30 years ago, and last October the artists at Highland MediaWorks of Macon County put proof to concept with their dauntingly ambitious plan to use Dry Falls as the stage for their own 21st century art project. Using a 3D mapping technique combined with their own artistic sensibilities, Highland MediaWorks owners Dawn and Dale McGiboney transformed a night-darkened Dry Falls into a technicolor kaleidoscope of shapes and patterns. The product of five months’ of negotiations for permission from the US Forest Service, “Waterfall Ribbons” marks the first time this new artform has been applied to a complex, endlessly dynamic feature like a waterfall.
A few topics are: Not Everyone Gets a Trophy, Different Than Me, Don’t Be Afraid to Ask, Don’t Be Afraid to Fail, and Look Up Not Down. Get a copy through mikeanddooley@gmail.com. Mike and Dooley aim for a younger demographic… those who grew up with TV, computers, phones, and social media. That’s why the two-minute segments (a micro lesson in life) are so effective. And when the dynamic duo delivers these sermonettes in their entertaining style, there is a meaningful take-away. Catch Mike and Dooley through a number of media:
Like most technically complex ideas, 3D projection mapping is built upon a simple premise – the same technique you witness when you take a seat at the movies. For this most modern iteration, rather than project an image onto a flat screen, the artist/technician maps her entire scene in 3D and projects and masks the image back onto a physically complex “screen.” With 3D Mapping, coordinates need to be defined for where the object is placed in relation to the projector, and its XYZ orientation. It’s a complex, painstaking process and the McGiboney’s needed to be precise in their measurements and their artistic choices. That dedication to their craft paid off in spectacular form on that clear October evening, when Dry Falls performed a 21st century version of the Dance of the Seven Veils, adorned in vivid colors. The photo on this page gives you an idea of just how spectacular this show was, but to fully appreciate the
technique and the audacity of the artistic decisions, visit highlandmediaworks.com and click on the Waterfall Projection link. And the McGiboney’s, who’ve attracted global attention with their pioneering work in the field, are planning to premiere other works on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, including a Gingerbread House upon a building in downtown Highlands.
Point phone camera at QR code to view video of Waterfall Ribbons
Facebook, Instagram, Faith Unveiled Network, WATC TV 57, mikeanddooley.com, and mikeanddooley@gmail.com. Point phone camera at QR code to view Mike & Dooley in the Morning episodes
thelaurelmagazine.com | Winter 2020 | 101
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
AN ENRICHING NEW DECADE
BY MARY JANE MCCALL
A new slate of officers is preparing to lead the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce into an enriching, challenging new decade.
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t its Annual Meeting & Celebration held on November 21, Cashiers Area Chamber members celebrated the installation of new directors. The Chamber’s Board provides strategic leadership for the organization’s programming, member services and benefits, and community and economic development initiatives. The evening’s program also included Spirit of Our Community Awards, musical entertainment, and hospitality by The Orchard Restaurant & Barn. Signal Ridge Marina, Sotheby’s International Realty Cashiers and Zoller Hardware were featured sponsors of the event. New and returning board members were nominated in October and received full membership approval in early November. The 2020 director slate was recommended after consideration of candidates’ business industry, location, gender, length of residence, availability, and other civic involvement. The Nominations Committee and
current Board of Directors made special efforts to ensure commitment and diversity among the future leadership. Each nominee generously agreed to serve the organization and Cashiers, Glenville, Lake Toxaway and Sapphire communities as a volunteer in the coming year. In that role, he or she will help set priorities in support of the Chamber’s Core Purpose: To provide extraordinary Leadership in the Cashiers Area as an Advocate for business, Information Source for the community and Conduit for building destination awareness and responsible growth. Current President Mary Lanning of Hampton Inn & Suites Cashiers-Sapphire Valley, was re-elected to a second term. Glenn Ubertino of Zoller Hardware, will serve as PresidentElect; and Ben Harris of Harris Custom Builders as Treasurer. Chamber Executive Director Stephanie Edwards serves as board Secretary. Retiring this year after long-standing ser-
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
vice, including as President, is Ken Fernandez of Old Cashiers Realty. Returning directors are: Justin Allman of FireMoss Pottery; Tony Austin of Lake Toxaway Company; Debby Hattler of Sotheby’s International Realty Cashiers; Sarah Jennings of Lonesome Valley; Kathy Korb of Laurelwood Inn; Brandy Letson of Cashiers Village Pharmacy; Ashton Harris of Country Club of Sapphire Valley; Lec Hobbs of Highland Hiker/Cashiers; Wendy Lupas of Gracewear; and Donnie Shuey of Signal Ridge Marina. Previous president Malice Grant of Sounds Essential serves as a non-voting board member in her role as Chair of the Cashiers Area Legacy Fund. New members to the Board include Eduardo Cruz of Eduardo’s Painting; Thomas Taulbee of Highlands-Cashiers Board of Realtors and Leadership Cashiers; and Dr. Don Tomas of Southwestern Community College. “I sincerely appreciate the time and energy our Board contributes to ensure the success of the Chamber and look forward to supporting their efforts in the coming year,” said Edwards. The Board’s annual strategic session will be held in January.
AN AMBITIOUS 2020 BY KAYE MCHANN
The Highlands Chamber of Commerce is launching an ambitious program to illuminate its future.
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s the New Year begins, the Highlands Chamber becomes focused on the future and setting our business goals. It’s time to dig deep and identify values and legacy of our organization, write down our goal and create a specific action plan. Committing to the writing process and developing concrete steps is energizing and exciting. It opens the door to possibilities and sets the direction to get there. Questions like where you want to be years from now and what impact you want to have ends up creating leveraged goals. For 2020, the chamber has set the goal of developing a Strategic Plan, based on research and developed to be used daily and not a dust collector. Our plan will provide a long-term perspective on operations and a
road map. Knowing that the only thing certain about the future is that it will be uncertain helps us keep an organic mind set and embrace the fact that everything will not go as planned. But, with values and vision at the core, unforeseen detours will keep us from losing sight of our goal and when opportunities arise, we will have guideposts to ensure the opportunities we pursue are coherent and aligned. You may be asking yourself why this is important to share. It’s important because you can be involved in the process! The research we will be conducting will involve full time residents, part time residents, and town leaders along with our board of directors, committee members and staff. Be on the lookout for your opportunity to participate in 2020!
thelaurelmagazine.com | Winter 2020 | 103
BETH TOWNSEND Owner / Broker,
LIZ HARRIS Owner / Broker,
CLHMS™ / GUILD™
CLHMS™ / GUILD™
MERRY SOELLNER Broker Associate,
ANN McKEE AUSTIN Owner / Broker
COLEEN GOTTLOEB Broker-In-Charge
SANDY & JOHN BARROW Sales & Listing Team / Broker Associates
CLHMS™ / GUILD™
WAYNE MONDAY Broker Associate
PHILIP BRADLEY Broker Associate
PAUL COLLINS Broker Associate
LOGAN CROCKER Broker Associate
REPRESENTING THE BUYERS AND SELLERS OF PREMIER PROPERTIES IN THE CASHIERS & HIGHLANDS AREA FOR OVER 40 YEARS. McKeeProperties.com
THE KEY TO D I S C O VER I N G YOUR OWN MOU N TAI N LIFES TYLE. LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC MINNIE COLE HOUSE 619 Highway 107 South
/
Cashiers, NC 28717 /
828.743.3411
/
McKeeProperties.com
Y E L LOW M O U N TA I N
MLS# 8 5 322
/
$ 6 , 9 5 0,0 0 0
Cashiers/Highlands finest estate opportunity minutes from Mountaintop Golf Club, Old Edwards Club, Cashiers and Highlands. Centrally located between Cashiers and Highlands in beautiful western North Carolina, Yellow Mountain Preserve boasts the highest elevation on the CashiersHighlands Plateau at 5,100 ft and is a true legacy property. The 150 acre estate has roads and utilities in place for a low density estate development or can be enjoyed as a single family or shared family estate. The estate adjoins 12,000 acres of the Nantahala National Forest. A 26-acre gentleman’s farm site sits at 4,600 feet and provides a peaceful 360 degree view of the surrounding mountains. The 360 degree stunning panoramic views from there include Cashiers Valley, Whiteside Mountain, Lake Glenville, and Sapphire Valley. All the views and natural surroundings combined with electronic access through a stoned entry, a paved road, high speed internet access and full cell phone coverage makes Yellow Mountain Preserve an exceptional and unique piece of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
619 Hwy 107 South, Cashiers, NC 28717 McKeeProperties.com
|
828.743.3411
WA D E H A M P T O N G O L F C LU B MLS# 91542 / $2,150,000 Amazing 180 degree mountain views of Whiteside and Yellow Mountain. This wonderfully built and beautifully maintained, 5 bedrooms and 5 baths home with attached 2 car garage was completed in 2005 and is on 1.38+/- acres. Spacious master on the main level with a gas log burning fireplace and breathtaking up close rockface views of Chimneytop. Wonderful spacious chef’s kitchen on the main level with a full wall of windows offering a gorgeous view for preparing meals or dining. A long covered back deck stretches along the backside of the home offering relaxation in the cool mountain breeze. The lower level includes another guest suite, a large family room, kitchenette and a second full covered porch. One other guest suite is located on the main floor. Upstairs includes two other guests suites. Located just a few minutes from the Wade Hampton clubhouse and a short drive to town.
LIZ HARRIS, CLHMS™ / GUILD™
828.342.3194 (c) liz@cashiers.com
WA D E H A M P T O N G O L F C LU B
$2, 2 5 0,0 0 0
Located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this home nestled in the woods offers ultimate privacy and peace. A beautiful covered bridge leads to the front door of this 4BR/4.5BA home with spacious great room, stone fireplaces, and beautiful screened porch overlooking gorgeous views of Wade Hampton’s golf course and the mountains beyond. MLS# 89365
BALD ROCK
$1,5 0 0,0 0 0
A handsome Equestrian estate with 3BR/3.5BA mountain rustic home on 6.55 acres over-looking the Blue Ridge Mountains. 3-Stall custom, top-of-the-line barn with pastures and arena make this an equestrian lover’s paradise. MLS# 90104
McKeeProperties.com T H E K E Y TO D I S C O V E R I N G YO U R O W N M O U N TA I N L I F E S T Y L E
WA D E H A M P T O N G O L F C LU B
$1, 2 9 0,0 0 0
This beautiful 4BR/4BA cottage’s design and finishes are current and elegant with all the spaces perfect for a mountain home. The main level offers a large great room with soaring ceilings and stone masonry fireplace. The porch offers a floor to ceiling masonry stone fireplace and room for both a sitting area and dining area. The master bedroom suite on the main level also adjoins the Carolina porch and features vaulted ceiling and tall windows that fill the room with beautiful natural light. MLS# 92247
WA D E H A M P T O N G O L F C LU B
$2,18 5,0 0 0
This elegant mountain home is full of charm and is located on a quiet cul-de-sac. Excellent views of the club’s 13th golf hole and a peek at Whiteside Mountain. Beautiful great room featuring dry stacked stone fireplace, reclaimed-timber beams and a wall of French doors that access the covered porch. Master bedroom suite on main level with spacious classic appointments, and three beautiful guest suites upstairs. A two-car carport and lovely perennial low maintenance landscaping complete this beautiful home. MLS# 89445
LIZ HARRIS, CLHMS™ / GUILD™
828.342.3194 (c) liz@cashiers.com
McKeeProperties.com 619 Highway 107 South OFFICE: 828.743.3411
MOTIVATED SELLER!
C E DA R C R E E K W O O D S
$ 3 9 5,0 0 0
This cute 2BR/3.5BA cottage in Cedar Creek Club is just a short walk to the lake and clubhouse! Great short range mountain views and frontage on the Horsepasture river. Master on main level. Spacious vaulted great room and open kitchen dining area. Guest bedroom and loft area upstairs. Covered porches on the front and back of the home. Join Cedar Creek Club and enjoy all the amenities and charm of this club located just 2 minutes from the center of Cashiers! MLS# 91162
LOTS & LAND
UNDER CONTRACT Mountaintop Golf Club
Mountaintop Golf Club
Mountaintop Golf Club
MLS# 88606 / $1,500,000
MLS# 89580 / $675,000
MLS# 89860 / $615,000
Wade Hampton Golf Club
Wade Hampton Golf Club
Mountaintop Golf Club
MLS# 90108 / $500,000
MLS# 90630 / $475,000
MLS# 90107 / $475,000 MLS# 90106 / $395,000
McKeeProperties.com 619 Highway 107 South OFFICE: 828.743.3411
LIZ HARRIS, CLHMS™ / GUILD™
828.342.3194 (c) liz@cashiers.com
W I N S O M E WAY MLS# 91309 / $349,000 Delightful, very well-maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath log construction home with split floor plan and nice office/family room addition to main house. Estimated 1,800 square feet. Rich wood interiors and flooring add to the mountain feel of this home. Location is very private, with three porches for views all around. Long range winter mountain views, with additional privacy lot available adjacent to the property. Quiet, yet convenient to Cashiers and Highlands. Brand new roof! NO CLUB MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED.
MERRY SOELLNER, CLHMS™ / GUILD™
828.399.1580 (c) merry@cashiers.com
L E AW O O D
$ 9 8 5,0 0 0
This majestic mountain home is built to impress with a rare sunset facing view over Lake Glenville. Unique property maximizes views and privacy, with 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths. Two outdoor living porches, one with fireplace for those cool nights. The master bedroom on the main level has outdoor screened porch. The open floor plan on the living level makes this home feel spacious yet cozy. MLS# 91234
PHILIP BRADLEY /
S A P P H I R E VA L L E Y
843.224.5592 (c) / philip@cashiers.com
$1, 2 0 0,0 0 0
Stunning 63 acre property, bisected by Little Hogback Creek, is aptly named The Sanctuary. Enjoy beautiful mountain views while listening to the sound of rushing waters from the numerous small waterfalls. A picturesque cabin with kitchen and bath overlooks the creek, adjacent open-air bunk shelters and large decks. MLS# 91238
G A N A S I TA
$ 4 3 5,0 0 0
Charming, secluded, open plan 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom home with level garden area and excellent views in convenient location near Cashiers crossroads. Lovely wide plank floors in Living and Dining area. MLS# 91191
SANDY BARROW 478.737.9664 (c) JOHN BARROW 828.506.9356 (c) 619 Highway 107 S / 828.743.3411 (o)
ADVERTISER’S INDEX 4118 Kitchen and Bar ACP Home Interiors acphomeinteriors.com A-List Antiques Around Back at Rocky’s Place aroundbackatrockysplace.com The Bascom thebascom.org Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices meadowsmountainrealty.com Betsy Paul Art Raffle Betsy Paul Properties betsypaulproperties.com Big and Blue Travel bigandbluetravel.com Black Bear Lodge blackbearlodgeofsapphire.com Black Rock Granite and Cabinetry blackrockgraniteandcabinetry.com Blair Realty blair-realty.com The Blue Elephant Blue Ridge Bedding blueridgebedding.com Blue Ridge Music blueridgemusicacademy.com Bound’s Cave boundscaverugs.com Bombshell Hair Boutique Cabin Couture cabincouturehighlands.com Carolina Rustic Furniture carolinarusticfurniture.com Cashiers Chamber of Commerce cashiersareachamber.com Cashiers Valley Fusion cashiersvalleyfusion.com Center for Plastic Surgery Robert T. Buchanan, MD plasticsurgerytoday.com Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals highlandsiscalling.com Charles Johnson Fine Art Photography charlesjohnsonfineart.com Chocolate Heaven/Cake Bar Christine’s Home Decor Classic Lighting & Design classiclightinganddesign.com Consignment Market consignmentmarketcashiersnc.com Crown Heritage Flowers LLC Country Club Properties ccphighlandsnc.com Creative Concepts Cullasaja Club cullasajaclub.org Dauntless Printing Dinner with Duffy Edward Jones Investments edwardjones.com Fairview House highlandsfariviewhouse.com Fire + Water firemt.com Fire Mountain Inn & Cabins firemt.com Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar Dr. Edward D. Frederickson MD FACP Half Mile Farm halfmilefarm.com Head Innovations High Country Furniture & Design highcountry.com The High Dive Highlands Chamber of Commerce highlandschamber.org Highlands Cashiers Players highlandscashiersplayers.org Highlands Playhouse highlandsplayhouse.org Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty sothebysrealty.com Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty - Bert Mobley highlandssir.com Highlands Transportation Company Holley Heating & Air Conditioning holleyheating.com J Gabriel Jennings Builders Supply jbwnc.com John Cleaveland Realty jcrealty.com Josephine’s Emporium The Kitchen thekitchenofhighlands.com
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Landmark Realty Group landmarkrg.com P 32, 33 Landmark Realty Group - Pam Nellis landmarkrg.com P 89 Landmark Vacation Rentals landmarkvacations.com P 32, 33 Lenz Gifts P 24 The Look Boutique thelookcashiers.boutiquewindow.com P 27 Lupoli Construction lupoliconstruction.com P 69 Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden P 88 Martin Lispcomb Performing Arts Center highlandspac.org P 40, 41 McCulley’s P3 McKee Properties mckeeproperties.com P 49, 104-112 McKee Properties - John and Sandy Barrow mckeeproperties.com P 112 McKee Properties - Philip Bradley mckeeproperties.com P 112 McKee Properties - Liz Harris mckeeproperties.com P 106-110 McKee Properties - Merry Soellner mckeeproperties.com P 111 McKee Properties - Beth Townsend mckeeproperties.com P 49 Meritage Bistro meritagehighlands.com P4 Midpoint Restaurant & Bar P 60 Mission Health Center – Highlands/Cashiers mission-health.org P 77 Morales Painting P 92 Mountainworks Design mtnworks.com P 66 Mountain Spring Spas and Pools mountainhotspring.com P 15 Nearly New P 96 Old Edwards Inn & Spa oldedwardsinn.com P 21, 88 On the Verandah ontheverandah.com P 55 Pat Allen Realty Group patallenrealtygroup.com P 70 Peak Experience peakexp.com P 14 Pro Servicess P 68, 89 Reach of Macon County reachofmaconcounty.org P 86 Rebecka’s Home Cleaning Service P 88 Roman’s Roofing LLC romansroofingnc.com P 89 Sapphire Valley Real Estate sapphirevalleyrealestate.com P 62 Silver Creek Real Estate Group ncliving.com P 10-11 Skweeky Kleen Cleaning Services ` P 89 Srebalus Construction Co. srebalusconstruction.com P 89 Stork’s Wrap, Pack & Ship P 14 The Summer House summerhousehighlands.com P 48 T Fitness P 17 Tia Dana P 27 TJ Bailey for Men tjbmens.com P 63 Town & Country General Store tandcgeneralstore.com P 23 Tug’s Proper tugsproper.com P 52 The Ugly Dog Pub - Highlands theuglydogpub.com P 53 The Ugly Dog Pub - Cashiers theuglydogpub.com P 53 VC for Men victoriasclosetnc.com P 97 Victoria’s Closet victoriasclosetnc.com P 97 Victoria’s Sportswear victoriasclosetnc.com P 97 The Village Green villagegreencashiersnc.com P 31 Warth Construction warthconstruction.com P 116 WHLC FM 104.5 whlc.com P 25 Whiteside Cove Cottages P 26 Wilbanks Smile Center Dr. Joe Wilbanks wilbankssmilecenter.com P 80 Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro wolfgangs.net P5 Woofgang Bakery & Grooming P 93 Yoga of Highlands yogahighlands.com P 78 The Zookeeper Bistro P 56 thelaurelmagazine.com | Winter 2020 | 113