Happy October! You’re invited to join us as we stroll through the foliage that’s now lighting the horizon and carpeting the forest floor.
Our advice: Step outdoors and take in every bit of this sensual glory. Let our stories by Chad Moon or Deena Bouknight or Donna Clements or Ed and Cindy Boos act as guides to your outdoor adventures. If you can’t get out, open a window!
And if it’s rainy or too chilly for you, look to Mary Jane McCall’s story about the late Audrey Breedlove – a Plateau personality who’ll add a dash of sunshine to your heart.
And we issue an invitation to everyone to attend the Trick or Treat celebrations sprouting like a ring of dark mushrooms at the end of the month!
Contributing Writers: Stuart Ferguson, William McReynolds, Debbie Hall, and Deena Bouknight Guest Writers: Jeanne Piazza, Sue Blair, David Stroud, Lance Hardin, Billy Love, Johanna Fein, Susan Gregory, Josh Bryson, Todd Holder, Anna Norton, Shelby Ward, Linda Kirkman, Danielle Hernandez, Dr. Kristin Lander, and Courtney Scarborough Contributing Photographers: Susan Renfro, Mary Gillan Renfro, Greg Clarkson, Charles Johnson, Peter Ray, Terry Barnes, Ryan Karcher, and Colleen Kerrigan.
October arrives draped in golden leaves and playful disguises, a month where nature’s brilliance meets human imagination in a celebration of harvest, color, and costume.
This is a harvest month, including root vegetables, whose fall bounty includes the color-laden Beauty of our mountain forests and meadows. Set aside the slogans and catchphrases from agency statements of where we are: Beauty Beckons best describes where we live.
The trees are suddenly clad in yellow, red and orange, beginning to gird themselves for the coming winter. The shedding of its worn-out light-eaters protects against snow and ice building up and bringing down whole branches. This process of disbursement and the blanketing the forest floor begins with the flashy fall colors that now grace our mountains: Intimations of Immortality.
Notice also the colorful birds that festoon our trees like Christmas tree decorations. They broadcast early morning muezzin calls and late-day evensongs.
With this October bounty we also get costumed festivals. The end-of-month “Hallowed” day occupies our thoughts all month. We work on our costumes. We get to be someone else briefly this month.
Halloween, for me, is a celebration of human playfulness and ingenuity.
Who would we like to be for one day?
Some of our children want to be Harry Potter figures. Harry, of course, but also Hermione and Dumbledore. Action figures, the hero archetype, are also in, as are witches and goblins. The costumed dogs steal the show. Our elegant ladies of the Plateau show up as elegant, beautifully attired, smiling witches. The kids are precious; the adults are works of art. Children and adults play together this month.
(Editor’s Note: At some point, DJ Mike will be spinning Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” In years past, there’d be a zombified flash mob that’d add a note of flash to the evening by recreating that iconic dance scene. With Covid, that spirit seems to have departed, but if you’re willing, unleash your inner undead and shuffle through the motions. If others join in, we may have restored a cherished part of the party.)
This year’s celebration carries extra sparkle, as it folds into Highlands’ 150th anniversary festivities. It’s not just a night of tricks and treats – it’s a tribute to the enduring heart of the Plateau.
So dust off your broomstick, fluff your tail, and join the revelry. Everyone’s invited – kids, grown-ups, and even the “recently departed” (who, according to Police Chief Andrea Holland, will be considered “living” for the evening). Just remember: dogs, dragons, and giant spiders must be leashed.
Whether you’re a Highlands regular or a curious newcomer, Downtown Trick or Treat promises a night of laughter, sugar highs, and memories worth haunting forever.
by Luke Osteen
On Saturday, October 25, Frank Allen Road transforms into a twilight trail of costumes, candy, and community cheer for the third annual Halloween Trickor-Treat Street — a free, familyfriendly celebration of spooky fun and sweet memories.
If you’ve spent any October in Cashiers or Southern Jackson County, you probably remember Goblins on the Green – a safe, slightly spooky haunt where Mummies and Daddies could parade their little pumpkins, pirates, and princesses through The Village Green.
Well, hold onto your broomsticks, because the Halloween magic has evolved into something even more enchanting: the third annual Halloween Trick-or-Treat Street, a block party-style bash that transforms Frank Allen Road into a twilight trail of treats and giggles. Set for Saturday, October 25, from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M., this free community event is hosted by The Village Green in collaboration with Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Cashiers-Glenville Recreation Center, the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Boys and Girls Club of The Plateau.
This isn’t just a stroll – it’s a full-on Halloween adventure. All sorts of community organizations will conjure up their own brand of festive fun, and the entire community is invited to walk the length of Frank Allen Road, collecting candy, memories, and maybe a few ghostly giggles along the way.
“Come dressed in your best Halloween costume and join us for Trick-or-Treat Street,” says Ashlie Mitchell, executive director of The Village Green. “We’ve brewed up plenty of treats – and just a few tricks – to keep the whole family smiling.”
Whether you’re a tiny trick-or-treater or a grown-up ghoul who still believes in the magic of October, this is your invitation to celebrate community, creativity, and a little bit of Halloween mischief. So dust off your cape, fluff your fairy wings, and meet us on Frank Allen Road. The ghosts of Halloween Trick-or-Treat Street are smiling – and they’d love to see you there.
Erick Baker
Whiskey and Reckonings
On October 8, Erick Baker brings his soul-stirring voice to The Orchard at Old Edwards—an intimate evening where music becomes pure connection.
Wednesday, October 8 promises something extraordinary at The Farm at Old Edwards: an evening with Erick Baker, whose voice — described as “smoke and whiskey with plenty of range and emotion” — will fill The Orchard with the kind of soul-stirring artistry that proves when Erick Baker sings, it isn’t just a performance — it’s a reckoning. Baker’s journey to musical prominence reads like something from a songwriter’s own lyrics: unexpected turns, lateblooming talent, and the kind of authentic grit that can’t be manufactured. The Knoxville native didn’t pick up his first guitar with performance in mind until college, but once he found his voice, the music world took notice. That pivotal open-mic night in Tennessee, where a promoter spotted his raw potential and landed him an opening slot for John Legend, launched a career that has since shared stages with Brandi Carlile, Grace Potter, and the Goo Goo Dolls. What sets Baker apart in a crowded field of singer-songwriters is his refusal to be
pinned down by genre conventions. His sound weaves together folk authenticity, rock energy, and Americana soul into something that feels both familiar and entirely his own.
Critics have praised his ability to channel the storytelling tradition of masters like Townes Van Zandt while maintaining the radio-ready appeal of contemporary crossover country.
But it’s Baker’s live performance that truly captivates. Mountain Express captured it perfectly, describing his “raw and powerful” voice and uncanny “ability to whip a crowd into a respectable frenzy.” When he hunches over his acoustic guitar, leaning into the microphone with that distinctive smoke-and-whiskey tenor, The Orchard transforms into an intimate cathedral of sound. His unguarded emotional energy creates moments that remind audiences why live music matters –those instances when song becomes something larger than entertainment, becoming connection.
Baker’s artistry doesn’t stop with
music. In 2021, he released a children’s book, Willie the Weed, a tender reminder to embrace your quirks and stand tall. That same mix of heart and grit runs through his music, and it’s what keeps audiences leaning in close, year after year.
As the sun sets over the Blue Ridge Mountains and Baker’s voice mingles with nature’s evening symphony, Orchard Sessions deliver on its promise of an immersive experience. This isn’t background music for conversation; it’s soul-stirring artistry that demands attention and rewards it generously.
The evening entertainment runs from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M., complete with complimentary light bites and a cash bar. Tickets are $25 for Old Edwards hotel guests and $50 for the public. In case of rain, the performance shifts indoors to The Orchard House. Book your Orchard Session tickets online at OldEdwardsHospitality.com/ OrchardSessions.
by Marlene Osteen
Shell-ebrate the Season
Highlands on the Half-Shell returns October 5 with Cajun cuisine and oysters to support local conservation and education efforts.
Right at the start of our most glorious month on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, one of our most beloved traditions returns to Valentine Meadow: Highlands on the Half-Shell.
On Sunday, October 5, beginning at 4:00 P.M., the Highlands Biological Foundation invites guests to savor the spirit of Louisiana – right in the heart of the southern Appalachians.
Set against the serene backdrop of the Highlands Biological Station (888 Horse Cove Road), this annual fundraiser blends culinary delight with environmental purpose. Attendees will indulge in fresh steamed oysters and a spread of Cajun-inspired dishes, all served in a relaxed outdoor setting that celebrates the natural beauty of the region.
But Highlands on the Half-Shell is more than a feast – it’s a vital fundraiser that fuels the foundation’s mission.
Proceeds support free community programming, immersive educational experiences for children and families, scholarships for budding scientists, and critical research initiatives that safeguard the biodiversity of the Plateau. From summer nature camps to citizen science projects, the Foundation’s work touches lives across generations.
The event’s success is a testament to the community’s commitment. Volunteers, board members, and friends of the foundation come together each year to
create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that reflects the values of stewardship and connection. Their efforts ensure that the Highlands Nature Center and Botanical Garden remain free and accessible to all.
Tickets are $150 per person, and space is limited. Guests are encouraged to reserve early by visiting highlandsbiological.org/half-shell.
Whether you’re a longtime supporter or a first-time attendee, this is an opportunity to enjoy great food, great company, and a great cause – all under the open sky.
So mark your calendar, grab your appetite, and join the Highlands Biological Foundation for an unforgettable evening where conservation meets Cajun cuisine.
by Marissa Nieddu,
Highlands Biological Foundation
Photos by Colleen Kerrigan
Autumn at The Green
The Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival, set for October 10–12, transforms The Village Green into a vibrant showcase of Appalachian artistry, music, and community spirit—welcoming all to savor the season.
The only thing more breathtaking than a gloriously green summer on the Plateau is watching it fade into the golden hues of fall. As the mountains don fiery coats of red, orange, and yellow, the Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival returns to The Village Green—offering one last celebration before the hush of winter.
Set for Friday through Sunday, October 10–12, this free and beloved event draws more than 100 regional artisans and merchants to the crossroads of Highways 64 and 107. Selected once again by the Southeast Tourism Society as a Top 20 October Event, the festival is a vibrant farewell to the season, welcoming locals and seasonal guests for a weekend of color, craft, and kinship.
Visitors will find handcrafted woodwork, pottery, jewelry, garden sculptures, paintings, linens, and more—
each piece a reflection of Appalachian artistry and heart. From the Gazebo at the Cashiers Crossroads to the Commons Lawn, artisan booths line the paths like autumn leaves, inviting guests to linger and discover.
adorning your own tree with a touch of mountain memory.
Children’s activities, food vendors, and live music round out the festivities. Dogs are welcome too, as long as they’re leashed and accompanied by their humans. It’s a weekend designed for everyone—from toddlers to tail-waggers.
As the mountains don their fiery coats of red, orange, and yellow, the Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival returns to The Village Green…
Part of the magic lies in the stories— shared by artists who speak of heritage, inspiration, and the hands that shaped each creation. Whether you’re seeking a one-of-a-kind gift or a keepsake to mark the season, you’ll find it here.
New this year, The Village Green tent will offer hand-painted glass Christmas ornaments—delicate tributes to the Plateau’s charm, perfect for gifting or
Festival hours are 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Friday and Saturday, and 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. Sunday. Rain or shine, the Leaf Festival promises an idyllic fall day of fun, flavor, and fellowship.
In a world that often rushes past the seasons, the Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival invites us to pause. To gather. To celebrate the turning of leaves and the enduring spirit of the Plateau. Come for the crafts, stay for the stories—and leave with a heart full of autumn.
by Luke Osteen
Elevating the Arts
Mountain Theatre Company has received a $35,000 tourism grant from Visit Highlands, NC—boosting its mission to bring dynamic, year-round theatre to the Plateau and beyond.
Mountain Theatre Company is honored to announce the generous support of a $35,000 nonprofit tourism grant from Visit Highlands, NC, further empowering our mission to present impactful, year-round theatre for the Highlands community and its visitors.
This grant is part of the Visit Highlands, NC Tourism Grant Program, which is funded by occupancy taxes collected from guests staying in Highlands accommodations. Each year, a dedicated committee of staff and board members reviews applications and recommends funding to the full Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC Board of Directors. We are grateful to be among the recipients who contribute to the cultural and economic vibrancy of this incredible town.
This grant is specifically designated to support marketing Mountain Theatre Company’s productions and programs to audiences more than 50 miles beyond Highlands. By expanding our marketing reach, we aim to increase ticket sales,
visits, and community engagement, bringing new patrons to the Plateau and strengthening the local community.
“Our goal at Mountain Theatre Company is to be a vital part of the cultural heartbeat of this extraordinary town,” says Scott Daniel, Executive Artistic Director. “Thanks to the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC, we’re able to keep growing that impact. Their continued investment in the arts helps ensure that theatre remains not only accessible, but essential to both our residents and visitors.”
This season, we’ve already produced two beloved productions – The Marvelous Wonderettes and Forever Plaid. Rounding out our summer season includes The Burnt Part Boys, a powerful musical postponed from our 2024 season due to Hurricane Helene. The Burnt Part Boys now plays a central role in our original docuseries Harmony in Highlands, which gives audiences a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how our productions come to life and why they matter.
Grants like this one are vital – but they’re only part of the story. The lifeblood of Mountain Theatre Company continues to be our audiences, donors, and community advocates. With increased programming comes increased need for resources, talent and access. This year, all students under 18 receive free admission, and we’ve worked hard to keep adult ticket pricing accessible.
As we continue to grow, your support ensures we remain a vibrant home for storytelling, enrichment and artistic excellence. You can support our mission by purchasing tickets to a show, making a tax-deductible donation, or simply helping us spread the word. Share our season lineup, invite friends to the theatre, and watch our behind-the-scenes docuseries, Harmony in Highlands. Every action helps fuel the future of live theatre in Highlands. You can find more information about MTC by visiting our website at mountaintheatre.com.
by Erin Leigh Knowles, Mountain Theatre Company
A Toast to Ten Years
To celebrate its 10th anniversary, Highlands Food & Wine unveils two custom-crafted beverages—a crisp lager and a bold red blend—capturing the festival’s spirit of flavor and artistry.
When Highlands Food & Wine launches this year from November 13–16, it won’t just be another joyful weekend of music, food, and celebration in the mountains.
The festival is marking its 10th anniversary, a milestone it has chosen to honor not with a stage flourish or a bigger tent, but with something you can taste.
Organizers have invested in producing two specially crafted beverages: a crisp lager from Charleston’s Edmund’s Oast Brewing Company and a limited-edition red blend from Sonoma’s Davis Family Vineyards. Together, they capture the essence of what Highlands Food & Wine has always been about—flavor, creativity, and community.
For the beer, Edmund’s Oast co-owner and brewing director Cameron Read set out to make something festive yet approachable, the kind of beer that can carry you from the first chords of an afternoon set to the last bites of dinner under the lights.
The result is Ten Outta Tin, a cheeky nod to the festival’s 10th year and the pint cans it will be packaged in.
“We wanted to brew something refreshing enough to enjoy all day, but with layers that make you pause between sips,” Read says. To get there, he leaned into American brewing tradition with a touch of rice – lightening the body and boosting drinkability – while giving it a modern lift with Hallertau Blanc hops from Germany. The hops add a whisper of white wine aromatics, a subtle wink to the festival’s vinous side.
Edmund’s Oast produced 1,000 gallons of the lager, plenty to keep glasses full at
festival events and on draft and in 16-ounce cans at local bars and retailers. The label, by Edmund’s Oast artist Blake Suarez, takes inspiration from the mountains themselves, with a bear and fish sketched into a whimsical tableau of local wildlife.
“It’s playful, but it also grounds the beer in its sense of place,” Read adds.
Celebrate the release of Ten Outta Tin with Edmund’s Oast Brewing Co. on October 23 from 5:00–7:00 P.M. in Charleston, South Carolina.
If the beer is about lightness and refreshment, the wine leans into depth and collaboration. Winemaker Guy Davis of Davis Family Vineyards chose to craft a red blend that mirrors the festival’s spirit.
“Highlands Food & Wine has always been about collaboration – chefs, winemakers, musicians all coming together,” Davis says. “A blend just felt right.”
His wine marries Italian varietals Sangiovese and Dolcetto with Bordeaux grapes Cabernet Franc and Malbec. The result is supple and layered, with silky tannins and a foodfriendly profile that evokes the great Super Tuscans.
The wine spent two full years in barrel before being bottled earlier this year, timed to show beautifully during the festival. Only 35 cases exist – enough for dinners, tastings, and a few bottles at Davis’ Highlands tasting room, High Country Wine and Provisions.
“I wanted it to be a wine for the table, a wine that brings people together,” Davis says.
Even the label carries the festival’s artistic stamp. Oregon designer Kelley Wills, known for posters for Phish and Brandi Carlile, created the 10th anniversary artwork and extended it to the wine label. The tagline, “10 Years of Hitting the High Notes,” nods to both the music and the altitude, capturing Highlands Food & Wine’s unique blend of sound and setting.
Join Davis Family Vineyards for their High Notes
Anniversary Wine release party on November 6 at 6:00 P.M., hosted at High Country Wine and Provisions.
Together, the beer and red blend are not just souvenirs. They are liquid expressions of a decade-long tradition, a way to hold the festival’s energy in your hand. In fact, they are liquid history – one bright, crisp, and playful; the other deep, layered, and contemplative.
Each bottle tells the story of a festival that has spent a decade raising Highlands onto a national stage, not with spectacle, but with what matters most: a shared table, a shared song, and a glass raised in good company.
by Marlene Osteen
Final Harvests
October marks your last chance to savor the bounty of local farms before winter settles in. Stock up on fresh produce, artisan goods, and seasonal treats at Highlands Farmers Marketplace and Locally Grown at Village Green—two vibrant hubs of community, flavor, and fall charm.
October’s Farmers Markets will be the final feast delivered from local farms until spring sprouts again. So take advantage of this year’s farm-produced veggies, honey, meats, cheese, and baked goods supplied by our cherished local growers, bakers, and creators.
Visit the markets:
Highlands Farmers Marketplace (Saturdays from 8:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. in KelseyHutchinson Park on Pine Street in Highlands).
Call Don if you want to join the vendor clan next season at (828) 342-8239.
Locally Grown at Village Green opens with 25 vendors every Wednesday, now through October 29th, 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. at 160 Frank Allen Road in Cashiers, (828) 743-3434.
Veggies will continue until the first heavy frost.
What else is currently available?
Pumpkins, winter squash such as butternut, candy roaster, spaghetti squash, and acorn squash, and greens such as kale, Swiss chard, arugula, spinach and more. Also, root veggies like sweet potatoes, regular potatoes, beets and turnips.
So take advantage of this year’s farm-produced veggies, honey, meats, cheese, and baked goods…
Besides edibles, you might find handcrafted goods, bath and beauty products, candles, handwork, and gift items for the holidays.
Both markets are easily accessible, clean, and accommodating. Reserved, free parking is for all attendees.
by Donna Rhodes
A New Chapter
Hudson Library welcomes new librarian Scott McKendree, whose background in education and public service brings fresh energy. Focused on inclusivity and connection, he’s exploring new programming and ways to serve Highlands’ Spanishspeaking residents, while continuing popular events like storytime, tech help, author talks, and community coffee.
Scott McKendree
The Hudson Library in Highlands has a new face at the helm, and he’s bringing both experience and enthusiasm to the role.
Scott McKendree, who stepped into the position in mid-August, is settling into his first official post as librarian with a background rooted in education and public service.
A native of Charlotte, McKendree spent 25 years working with refugees and immigrants, teaching English as a second language, and facilitating youth programs before turning to libraries. He earned his master’s in library science from UNC Greensboro after years of balancing public library work with teaching.
Now based in Rabun Gap, Georgia, where he and his family live on a goat farm, he says the Highlands community has already made him feel right at home.
For McKendree, Hudson Library isn’t just about books – it’s about belonging.
language books, starting conversation clubs, or providing homework help are all on his mind.
He’s quick to credit the Hudson Library Foundation for its strong support, which allows programming to flourish…
“The building has such a welcoming atmosphere – it doesn’t feel institutional,” he explains. “It’s almost like a bookstore or a home. People come in not only to check out books but to meet friends.”
He’s quick to credit the Hudson Library Foundation for its strong support, which allows programming to flourish in a way that’s unusual for a public library.
While still learning the ropes, McKendree is considering new initiatives to better serve Highlands’ Spanish-speaking community. Ideas such as building a collection of Spanish-
What excites him most is connecting with patrons directly.
“Helping people find what they need is what I enjoy most about being a librarian,” he says.
October’s calendar at Hudson Library reflects that same spirit of connection. Storytime on Thursday mornings at 10:40 A.M. welcomes little ones up to age five, while Kids Zone at 3:30 P.M. the same day offers afterschool fun for children five and up. Tech Times on the second and fourth Wednesdays, from 1:00 to 3:00 P.M., provides one-onone help with computers and devices.
On Friday, October 17 at 11:00 A.M., neighbors can gather for Community Coffee with the Mayor.
by Marlene Osteen
photo by Susan Renfro
Paws and Praise
Bring your beloved pets— furred, feathered, or scaled—to the Village Green on October 4 at 10:00 A.M. for a joyful community blessing in honor of Saint Francis. All are welcome, lawn chairs encouraged, tails and smiles expected.
If you have one or more family members of fur, feather, or scale, bring them, secured with leashes/ enclosures, to the Blessing of Animals on October 4, 10:00 A.M. at the Village Green on Frank Allen Road.
This Cashiers community tradition was inspired by the Church of the Good Shepherd. It’s an annual event celebrated on St. Francis Feast Day, October 4. Over the years, other local churches have joined the joyful gathering.
St. Francis, dating back to the 13th century, is much more than the legendary patron of animals. We see him portrayed in garden sculptures, his tender hands cupping birds and beasts. But he was also a poet, a mystic, and a Catholic friar who founded the religious order of the Franciscans.
When you bring your precious pets to the gathering, they will be blessed in the spirit of Saint Francis, who believed if
people benefit from blessings, all God’s creatures can be hallowed, too. Be part of the Cashiers celebration of the saint’s kindness for your beloved. And in the Franciscan spirit of helping others, please bring one or more of the following to give to the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society: monetary gifts, items like blankets, rugs, towels, healthy treats, unscented cat litter and/or canned dog and cat food. CHHS extends its gratitude for your generosity.
The ceremony extends joy and compassion to your extended family of woofers, chirpers, and mewers at the 2025 Cashiers Blessing of the Animals. And don’t forget to bring some puppy love, a warm grin, a wag or two, and a comfy lawn chair.
by Donna Rhodes
Spooky Spiders
This October, young adventurers can uncover the secrets of spiders at Spooky Spiders of North Carolina—a hands-on nature event led by expert naturalist Brian Bockhahn.
As the golden hues of October settle over the Plateau, the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust and The Village Green invite curious young minds to step into the shadowy world of arachnids at the Youth Village Nature Series.
From 4:00 to 5:00 P.M. Tuesday, October 14, naturalist and educator
Brian Bockhahn will lead “Spooky Spiders of North Carolina,” a handson exploration of the misunderstood marvels that skitter through our forests and fields.
Bockhahn, a seasoned education specialist with North Carolina State Parks, has spent decades hiking nearly every trail in the state, cataloging its biodiversity and co-authoring the Arachnids of North Carolina website. His passion for spiders is matched only by his gift for storytelling – making him the perfect guide for this eerie yet
enlightening journey.
Western North Carolina is home to a web of fascinating species, including the elusive spruce-fir moss spider, one of the tiniest and rarest spiders in the world. Nestled in the high-elevation moss mats of this corner of the Southern Appalachians, this endangered creature is no larger than a pencil eraser and spins its delicate web among liverworts and hornworts. Its presence is a testament to the uniqueness of Southern Appalachian ecosystems – and a reminder of the fragility of life at the mountaintop.
Then there’s the bolas spider, a master of mimicry found in scattered pockets across the state. Rather than weaving traditional webs, the female bolas spider swings a sticky silk ball to snare unsuspecting moths, lured in by pheromone mimicry. It’s nature’s version of trick-or-treat,
with the spider playing both roles. At the Village Green Commons, children will learn how to identify local spiders, understand their ecological roles, and even debunk a few myths – like the idea that all spiders are dangerous. Through games, stories, and up-close encounters, Brian will transform fear into fascination, showing that these eight-legged creatures are more than Halloween icons – they’re vital threads in the web of life.
Free and open to all, this program promises a blend of science, spookiness, and seasonal wonder. So grab your flashlight, bring your curiosity, and prepare to meet the real monsters of the mountains – small, silent, and spectacular.
by Luke Osteen
Chasing Shadows
Autumn on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau stirs up vibrant color, cozy flavors, and one unforgettable spectacle—the fleeting Shadow of the Bear, a natural wonder that draws crowds and awe each October.
The autumn season brings about a flurry of activity on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.
All the animals are in the final frenzy of fattening up for the coming winter season, and a few of us humans might be doing the same, however unintentionally, as we enjoy apple cider, pumpkin and apple delights, and our final goodies from area farmers markets.
And, of course, we are all rushing about trying to capture the vivid fall colors in our memories so we can hold onto them throughout the coming winter season.
One event that’s not to be missed, and one that has gained national attention, is the annual appearance of the mystical Shadow of the Bear at the Rhodes Big View Overlook on Highway 64 East between Highlands and Cashiers. This bear makes his shadowy appearance for several weeks starting in mid-October between the hours of approximately 5:30
until 6:00 P.M.
As the sun sets and moves behind Whiteside Mountain, the shadowy figure of the bear emerges from the valley floor among the brilliantly colored autumn foliage.
It’s an imposing and inspiring sight whether you’re seeing for the first time or the twentieth, and a sight that’s garnered national attention since it can only be seen here. Only during this brief period does the bear appear. At other times throughout the year due to the earth’s rotation the shadow appears in different forms and more than once I think I’ve spotted a giant mouse that makes me think of the Mouse King in The Nutcracker.
Often forgotten is the fact that the bear shadow makes another appearance from mid-February until early March, but the fall appearance draws the most visitors. The combination of this
one-of-a-kind shadowy display and the fiery fall leaves is truly a sight that you shouldn’t miss.
The earliest inhabitants of our area, the Cherokee, revered the Black Bear for both his spirit and as a powerful animal. They believed that the shadow of the bear was a sign that a powerful bear spirit protected them from the evil Spearfinger, a shape-shifting witch who lived in a cave on Whiteside Mountain and used her spear-shaped finger to stab people.
This amazing phenomenon draws a large crowd so proceed with caution to the panoramic overlook, find a safe parking spot and walk to the overlook to view. Always be aware that this is a busy highway, so be safe and find a spot off the road near the guardrail to stand and watch the shadow emerge.
by Mary Jane McCall
photo by Andrew
Renfro
Autumn on the Plateau
Autumn arrives in full splendor on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, turning every trail and treetop into a masterpiece of color.
There’s no denying it – Mother
Nature is a show-off, and nowhere is her flair more dazzling than on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau in October. As autumn unfurls its tapestry, the mountains are cloaked in a kaleidoscope of yellows, reds, and oranges, a breathtaking quilt tossed across the landscape with wild abandon.
This seasonal spectacle is more than just visual poetry – it’s rooted in plant biology. As days shorten and temperatures cool, trees slow their chlorophyll production, revealing hidden pigments: carotenoids for golden yellows and oranges, and anthocyanins for fiery reds and purples. Trees like Eastern Red Maple, Silky Dogwood, and Northern Wild Raisin lead the crimson parade, while Yellow Birch and Downy Serviceberry contribute their golden glow.
But the leaf show is just the
beginning. The Plateau offers a full sensory banquet. The scent of decaying leaves mingles with the musk of compost and the smoky perfume of autumn bonfires. For flavor, seek out the crimson-leaved Staghorn Sumac. Its berries, steeped and mashed into a sweet-tart tonic, offer a taste of Cherokee tradition – especially when served with mint on a sunny October afternoon.
To immerse yourself in this seasonal magic, explore the Highlands Biological Station, Cliffside Lake, or the Cashiers Greenway Ramble. Whether you’re hiking Panthertown Valley with the Friends of Panthertown (October 1–22) or strolling the Bartram Trail, there’s a path for every pace. And if walking’s not your thing, the leaf show is just as stunning from the car window. The Plateau also sings in October Venues all over the Plateau host live
music throughout the month. Again, our Events Calendar is your best bet to stay updated on the when and where.
Want to join the fun? Become a leaf keeper from October 18–November 11 by hiding and finding painted wooden leaves across Cashiers. And don’t miss the Halloween Trick or Treat Street in Cashiers (October 25) or Highlands’ Downtown Trick or Treat (October 31). These community-wide celebrations promise laughter, music, and memories – no matter your age.
So yes, come for the leaves. But stay for the full spectrum of life on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. It’s a season, a celebration, and a story you’ll want to be part of.
by Mary Jane McCall
Final Act: Deathtrap
The Highlands Cashiers Players end their 30th season with Deathtrap , a suspenseful thriller opening October 30. Directed by Michael Lanzilotta, the show blends dark comedy and mystery, perfect for spooky season. Performances run through November 9.
Michael Lanzilotta and Cathy Myers
The Highlands Cashiers Players are ending their 30th anniversary season with a bang – or perhaps a gasp.
Ira Levin’s Deathtrap, the longestrunning thriller in Broadway history, will take center stage at the Performing Arts Center beginning October 30. A masterful blend of suspense and dark comedy, Deathtrap promises to keep audiences guessing – and laughing –until the final curtain.
Directed by HCP veteran Michael Lanzilotta, Deathtrap follows the twisted tale of Sidney Bruhl, a oncerenowned playwright whose career has fizzled. When Sidney receives a brilliant new script from a former student, Clifford Anderson, he sees a chance to reclaim his fame. But rather than collaborate, Sidney plots to murder Clifford and steal the play—a “perfect thriller” titled Deathtrap. Add a psychic neighbor with inconvenient visions, and
the stage is set for a deliciously tangled web of deception.
“What attracted me to this show was how it depicts the depths we would go through to satisfy greed and pride,” says Lanzilotta. “The twists in this story will have the audience on the edge of their seats.”
April Getz, HCP President and apprentice director for the production, agrees. “Deathtrap is a perfect choice for community theater because of its small cast and single set,” she says. “And it’s ideal for spooky season. We open October 30, but won’t have a show on Halloween – nothing competes with Halloween on Main!”
The production team includes Cathy Myers as stage manager and set designer, and Jayne Pleasants as line coach. Auditions were recently held, and the cast will be announced soon. HCP continues to welcome newcomers interested in directing, acting, or
working behind the scenes.
Opening night on October 30 includes a complimentary wine and light bites reception following the 7:00 P.M. performance. Additional showtimes are November 1 at 5:00 P.M., November 2 at 2:00 P.M., and the following weekend: November 6 and 7 at 7:00 P.M., November 8 at 5:00 P.M., and November 9 at 2:00 P.M.
Tickets are available at HighlandsCashiersPlayers.com or by calling the PAC box office at (828) 526-9047.
Deathtrap marks the final full-length show of HCP’s milestone season, but the celebration continues with a free Holiday Show on December 9, followed by a cake and champagne reception to toast 30 years of community theater magic.
by Luke Osteen photo by Susan Renfro
The Quiet Invitation
Amid October’s lively swirl, the HighlandsCashiers Plateau offers a gentle call to slow down and savor its quiet wonder. Nature, art, and poetry become soulful refuges— no ticket needed, just a willingness to breathe and be.
In the swirl of October’s bustle – its festivals, its leaf-peeping pilgrimages, this magazine thick with events and happenings – there exists a quieter invitation.
It’s not printed in bold type (just this little story in this little magazine). It doesn’t require reservations or a wallet. It simply asks you to pause, breathe, and step into the hush that blankets the HighlandsCashiers Plateau.
This region, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is known for its vibrant community and natural beauty. But beyond the headlines and social calendars lies a network of serene sanctuaries. Lindenwood Lake at the Highlands Botanical Gardens, for instance, offers a gentle stroll where the rustle of leaves and shimmer of water renew the spirit in nature’s quiet embrace. My boss Marjorie swears by it. My Official
Mistress Tricia Smith, ever the art lover, finds her peace wandering the Horst Winkler Sculpture Trail at The Bascom, where nature and creativity intertwine in quiet harmony.
It simply asks you to pause, breathe, and step into the hush that blankets the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.
As for me, I’m drawn to the Village Green. Yes, it sits in the heart of Southern Jackson County’s busiest corridor, but that’s only if you measure reality by traffic counts and storefronts. Emotionally, spiritually, the Village Green is a world apart. Its boardwalk winds through wetlands that hum with birdsong and the laughter of children. It’s a place where time slows, and the noise
of the world fades into the background. To deepen the experience, I often bring along a book – Thomas Merton’s contemplative prose, the lyrical musings of Yeats or Keats, or the local voices of Richard Betz and Randy Lucas. Their words, steeped in the spirit of the Plateau, seem to echo the landscape itself. Betz’s Continental Divide and Lucas’s Poems from the Park Bench are not just written about the area – they’re written from it, with a reverence that invites you to see the familiar anew.
So in this season of motion and momentum, consider this your gentle nudge to seek stillness. Let the Plateau’s quiet corners be your retreat. No ticket required, no deadline looming – just the promise of peace, waiting patiently beneath October’s crazy-quilt canopy. by Luke Osteen
A Taste of Generosity
On October 12, Highlands First Presbyterian Church hosts the 14th annual Empty Bowls lunch, raising vital funds for the Highlands Food Pantry through handmade pottery, donated soups, and shared generosity.
On Sunday, October 12, Highlands First Presbyterian Church will once again be filled with the warm aroma of soup and the spirit of giving as it hosts the 14th annual Empty Bowls community lunch from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.
This cherished event, rooted in a global movement to combat hunger through art and shared meals, remains a cornerstone of Highlands’ efforts to support food security.
The Highlands Empty Bowls Project began as a modest gathering inspired by the international initiative, which encourages artists and communities to create handmade bowls and serve simple meals to raise funds for hunger relief. Over the years, Highlands has embraced this mission wholeheartedly, transforming the event into a vibrant celebration of generosity and local flavor.
At the heart of the event is the
Highlands Food Pantry, operated by the International Friendship Center. Executive Director TJ Smith emphasizes the critical role the fundraiser plays in sustaining the pantry’s operations, which require approximately $7,000 in monthly food purchases. “Empty Bowls is not just a fundraiser – it’s a lifeline,” Smith
De Jong, Lakeside Restaurant, and Kilwins. Each $35 ticket includes a hearty serving of soup and a handcrafted pottery bowl – both symbols of nourishment and community.
…will once again be filled with the warm aroma of soup and the spirit of giving…
notes. “It allows us to continue meeting the growing needs of our neighbors with dignity and care.”
This year’s culinary offerings promise to delight, with soups and desserts donated by beloved local establishments including Mountain Fresh, 4118 Kitchen & Bar, the Highlands Tavern, the Highlands Supper Club, the Baked Bunny, Chef Roberto
Tickets are available online at Highlands Friendship Center’s website or in person at the Highlands Food Pantry, located on the bottom floor of Highlands United Methodist Church via Spring Street, open Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.
As the event enters its 14th year, it continues to embody the spirit of the original Empty Bowls concept: a simple meal in a handmade bowl, reminding attendees of the many empty bowls in the world and the power of collective action to fill them. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or a first-time guest, this year’s lunch offers a chance to make a meaningful impact – one bowl at a time.
Falling for Cashiers: A Community Celebration of Autumn
Autumn in Cashiers is pure magic. Crisp mountain air, vibrant foliage, and a festive spirit make our village an enchanting destination.
This fall, the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce invites residents and visitors to join two signature events: the 19th Annual Chili Cook-Off and the Falling for Cashiers scavenger hunt.
Chili Cook-Off Heats Things Up The fun begins Thursday, October 16, from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. with the Chili Cook-Off, co-hosted by Landmark Realty Group and the Chamber. This beloved event returns to Lewis Hall at The Village Green, in the heart of Cashiers.
Guests can sample chili recipes— from family favorites to bold new twists—crafted by local chefs, restaurants, and community members. Attendees will vote for their favorites, adding a spirited (and spicy!) edge to the evening:
• 1st Place Community Cook
• 1st Place Professional Chef
A panel of judges will also award:
• Judges’ Choice Community Cook
• Judges’ Choice Professional Chef
• Best in Show
Beyond the bowls, the Cook-Off is about community—gathering with friends and neighbors while supporting the Chamber’s mission to promote and enhance the Cashiers area.
Falling for Cashiers:
The Falling for Cashiers scavenger hunt launches on Saturday, October 18 running through Monday, November 10. This interactive event encourages participants to see Cashiers in a new way.
With clues provided by the Chamber, adventurous Leaf Peepers will search for hidden leaves placed by curated Leaf Keepers—local shops, businesses, and scenic spots that highlight the beauty and spirit of the Plateau. Each discovery uncovers not just a leaf, but a local treasure.
Leaf Peepers are invited to snap photos of their finds and share them on social with the hashtag #FallingforCashiers and be sure to tag @cashiersareachamber, spreading the joy of fall in Cashiers. Every completed scavenger card earns an entry into a prize drawing, with the winner announced at the Spirit of Our Community Awards reception on Thursday, November 13.
This inspiring evening celebrates individuals and organizations who make a lasting impact on the Cashiers area. Spirit Award nominations are due by November 7 and may be submitted online or at the Chamber office.
Celebrate autumn together from the warmth of chili on a cool October evening to the thrill of a community-wide scavenger hunt. Cashiers’ fall traditions celebrate both the season and the people who make this village a special place. by Susan Sapienza, Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce
Set against the rolling hills of Scaly Mountain, The Vineyard at High Holly offers more than just breathtaking views—it’s a destination where music, flavor, and fellowship converge in perfect harmony. Whether you’re sipping wine beneath the golden canopy or swaying to the rhythm of a live set, every visit to Barrel & Vine feels like a celebration of the senses.
Live Music and October Charm
This October, the vineyard hums with autumnal energy as live music fills the air every Friday from 3:00–6:00 P.M. and Sunday from 2:00–5:00 P.M. From soulful acoustic duos to lively ensembles, each performance is handpicked to complement the vineyard’s relaxed elegance and seasonal glow. Guests are invited to unwind, dance, and let the melodies mingle with crisp breezes and clinking glasses.
Seasonal Menus & Wine Flights
Barrel & Vine’s menu shifts with the season, spotlighting fresh, local ingredients in every dish—from comforting harvest flavors to the last notes of summer’s bounty. Pair your plate with a curated wine flights, and take a journey through bold reds, crisp whites, and unique blends. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or simply savoring the moment, every bite and sip tells a story.
A Gathering Place Like No Other
Open Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays from 12:00–6:00 P.M., The Vineyard invites you to linger longer— whether for a romantic afternoon, a family outing, or a spontaneous stop on your fall mountain adventure. Beyond the table, guests can enjoy artist-led workshops, themed dinners, and seasonal events that celebrate creativity, connection, and community. It’s a place where every moment feels elevated, and every visit leaves a lasting impression.
Happenings at The Vineyard at High Holly
As autumn settles in, Barrel & Vine becomes your October haven—where mountain breezes mingle with music, wine, and memory-making moments.
“May
OCTOBER
OCTOBER
“May you fall in love with October and all the beauty it brings, May your life be as colorful as the turning of the leaves, On each blessed autumn day.”
Arts & Crafts Festival, 10 AM- 4 PM, Sapphire Valley Resort.
Live Music, 1-3 PM, Highlands Smokehouse.
Live Music, 2-5 PM, The Vineyard at High Holly. Sinatra Sunday, 2-7 PM, Highlands Wine Shoppe.
Highlands on the Half-Shell, 4 PM, HBS Valentine Meadow.
Ticketed Concert, The Corey Stevenson Band, 6 PM, Happs Place.
The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM. Under the Stars, On the Rocks, Chef Sam Diminich, 6 PM, Skyline Lodge.
The Bookworm 11 AM-4 PM.
Locally Grown on The Green, 11 AM-3 PM, Village Green.
Live Music, 5 PM, Cashiers Celtic Table.
Live Music, 5-7 PM, Highlands Smokehouse.
Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.
1
Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Cynthia Perryman Pop-up
2
Art Show, 10:30 AM, Joan Anderson Interiors. Forms of Wool Felting, 10 AM-1 PM, Bascom. Tastings, 4-6 PM, Highlands Wine Shoppe. Great Art on Screen: Water Lilies by Monet, 5 PM, PAC. Live Music, 6 PM, 4118 Kitchen & Bar. Trivia, 7:30 PM, High Dive.
The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM.
Locally Grown on The Green, 11 AM-3 PM, Village Green.
Live Music, 5 PM, Cashiers Celtic Table.
Live Music, 5-7 PM, Highlands Smokehouse.
Live Music, Erick Baker, 6-8 PM, The Farm at Old Edwards. Bluegrass Wednesday, 6:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.
you fall in love with October and all the beauty it brings, May your life be as colorful as the turning of the leaves, On each blessed autumn day.” — Charmaine J. Forde
Highlands Food Pantry, 10 AM-5 PM, Highlands Methodist Church. The Bookworm , 11 AM-4 PM. Youth Nature Series, 4 PM, Village Green. The Laurel’s Cover Artist Reception, 5:30-7 PM, High Country Wine and Provisions, Highlands.
Locally Grown on The Green, 11 AM-3 PM, Village Green.
Live Music, HCCMF Fall Residency, 5 PM, Highlands First Presbyterian Church. Halloween Trick or Treat Street, 5-7 PM, Frank Allen Road. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. Live Music, Alamo Band, 6 PM, Happs Place.
Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Paint (By Numbers) and Sip, 12 PM, Trailborn Highlands. Live Music, 3-6 PM, Highlands Wine Shoppe. Saturday Sound Bath, 4 PM, Unfurl Wellness Spa. Live Music, HCCMF Fall Residency, 5 PM, Highlands First Presbyterian Church. Halloween Trick or Treat Street, 5-7 PM, Frank Allen Road. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. Live Music, Alamo Band, 6 PM, Happs Place.
Southern Chef Potluck, 6 PM, The Farm at Old Edwards.
30 Mountain Findings, 10 AM-1 PM. Bazaar Barn, 10 AM-2 PM. Live Music, 3-6 PM, The Vineyard at High Holly. Live Music, 5:30 PM, Hummingbird Lounge. Halloween on Main, 6-8 PM, Downtown Highlands
31
Live Music, Charles Walker Band, 6 PM, Happs Place. Friday Night Vibes, 6:30-8:30 PM, High Country Wine & Provisions. Karaoke Night, 9:30 PM, Ugly Dog Pub.
View the complete Highlands Cashiers Plateau Calendar
View the complete Highlands Cashiers Plateau Calendar
ON THE HORIZON
November Events
THURSDAY-SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13-16
Highlands Food & Wine Festival
This festival transforms this small town into a culinary showcase. For four days, visitors from throughout the country – along with residents – throng the streets, sampling food and wine tastings from renowned chefs and vintners. highlandsfoodandwine.com
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29
Light Up The Park
6-8 PM, Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park
It’s the moment children who are young and old have been waiting for all year! There is a hum of excitement as people gather and share candy canes, hot chocolate, the reading of the Christmas story, singing carols, and wait for it... Santa arrives and Lights the Park with millions of twinkling lights! highlandschamber.org
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28
Cashiers Christmas Tree Lighting
5-7 PM, The Village Green
The Cashiers’ Christmas Tree Lighting will be held on the Gazebo Lawn near the Cashiers crossroads starting at 5 PM, rain or shine. To add to the festivities, the evening will feature a cozy fire pit, apple cider, s’mores, and festive holiday music! villagegreencashiersnc.com
NOVEMBER 1-2, 6-9
Highlands Cashiers Player’s Death Trap Highlands PAC
The Highlands Cashiers Players end their 30th season with Deathtrap, a suspenseful thriller opening October 30.
Directed by Michael Lanzilotta, the show blends dark comedy and mystery, perfect for spooky season. Performances run through November 9. highlandscashiersplayers.com
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27
Gobble on the Green
9-11 AM, The Village Green Turkey, corn bread dressing, pumpkin pie, football, and family time - there are so many reasons to love Thanksgiving! Did we mention pie? Each family has its own activities and traditions to look forward to. The Village Green offers this 5K Run/Walk to add to yours. villagegreencashiersnc.com
FRIDAY-SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28-29
Festival of Trees
10 AM-5 PM, Summit Charter School
Cashiers Festival of Trees is a family-friendly event during Thanksgiving weekend featuring decorated trees, wreaths, gift baskets, holiday shopping, children crafts, story time, rivalry weekend football viewings, entertaining performances, and more. summitschool.org
December Events
DECEMBER 5-21
Home for the Holidays Mountain Theatre Company at Highlands PAC
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with this annual holiday spectacular! Fun for all ages, this festive seasonal music revue promises dazzling costumes, high energy choreography, and is sure to fill audiences with plenty of good, old-fashioned holiday cheer! mountaintheatre.com
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
51st Cashiers Christmas Parade
Gingerbread Man’s Mountain March
3-5 PM, 107 South
We’re sweet on this year’s 51st Annual Cashiers Christmas Parade, marching your way on Saturday, December 6 with another whimsical theme. cashiers411.com
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17
Fireside at The Farm
6-8 PM, The Farm at Old Edwards
Join in for Fireside at The Farm: A Holiday Evening with Mike Kinnebrew. Settle into the magical ambiance of The Farm and relax into a special evening with the sounds of holiday music filling the pavilion. oldedwardshospitality.com
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
Highlands Olde Mountain Christmas Parade
10 AM-12 PM, Main Street Highlands
What happens when the bands, camels, and floats arrive in Highlands? An amazing small-town Christmas Parade that you don’t want to miss! Gather all your family, friends and neighbors and join the merry making on Main Street for this long-standing Highlands Christmas tradition. highlandschamber.org
SATURDAYS IN DECEMBER
Santa in the Park
Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park
Santa will take his place at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park each Saturday during December. Come share your wish list. He’ll also periodically sneak into the park to retrieve letters placed in a special mailbox from the North Pole! Be sure to take a few photos. highlandschamber.org
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14
Lighting of the Menorah
5:30 PM, Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park Hanukkah is an eight-day winter festival of lights, celebrated to mark the triumph of light over darkness. One candle of the giant menorah will be lit on the first night of Hanukkah and an additional candle each successive night. This will be done until the eighth night when the Menorah is fully illuminated.
Liz Harris & Jessica Hoheisel
TWO SISTERS, ONE GOAL: YOUR REAL ESTATE SUCCESS
As sisters and brokers, we bring a powerful blend of synergy, passion, and market expertise to the CashiersHighlands area. With deep roots in the community and a shared commitment to excellence, we’ve combined our individual successes to create a powerhouse real estate duo—offering our clients twice the knowledge, strategy, and personalized service.
Liz, has been a leader in the region’s luxury real estate market for over 20 years and is currently the top ranked broker in Cashiers and the 2nd ranked broker on the Highlands/Cashiers plateau for 2024. Specializing in exclusive club communities, land and estates, and lakefront properties, she pairs strategic marketing with a keen eye for staging, ensuring every listing reaches its full potential.
Jessica’s solution oriented attitude is the driving force behind her career. Mentored by Liz Harris over the past five years, she’s quickly becoming an expert in high-end real estate, seamlessly navigating transactions and building strong client relationships. Possessing an innate ability to understand and connect with people, and a sharp eye for market trends, she helps buyers and sellers navigate the real estate process with confidence and ease.
Together, we offer a full-service real estate experience, combining elite marketing, expert negotiation, and an extensive network of industry professionals. Whether buying, selling, or investing, we ensure a smooth, strategic, and rewarding process. With us, you don’t just get agents—you get trusted advisors, relentless advocates, and a sister-driven team committed to your success. Let’s find or sell your place together.
LIZHARRISBROKER.COM & JESSICAHOHEISELBROKER.COM
“Liz and Jessica have guided us through the purchase and sale of several homes in Cashiers and we could not speak more highly of their expertise, attention to detail or the care and services they provided us as clients.You would be hard pressed to find a more knowledgeable agent; they have led us to a few of our best investments. This team will just about bend over backwards to find you the perfect real estate for your family. We are so grateful for their professionalism and assistance.” – KELSEY
“Liz has successfully been my Broker on two occasions. First, she coordinated with other Brokers to get top-dollar for my home in Mountaintop. Next, she was able to secure a property I really wanted after it was just sold to someone else, and find a solution that satisfied everyone. In a word she is tenacious, and gets the job done.” – CHRIS E
Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club
6 BR / 5.5 BA / 2.32 ACRES Nestled in the prestigious Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club in Cashiers, NC, this exceptional estate offers mountain chic luxury with breathtaking views of Whiteside Mountain. The property features a gently sloping yard, surrounded by beautiful terraces and multiple outdoor spaces to take in the stunning scenery. Crafted with the finest materials, the home boasts reclaimed wood and stone accents throughout the ceilings, walls, and floors. Large floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the home in natural light, accentuating its exquisite craftsmanship. Four masonry stone fireplaces, custom doors, intricate trim details, and high-end finishes throughout create a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. This residence includes six spacious bedroom suites, with a primary suite on the main level, four guest suites upstairs, and a bunk room suite on the lower level— providing privacy and comfort for family and guests. The top level features a spectacular lookout with sweeping mountain views and a cozy sitting room with a bar, perfect for relaxation or entertaining while soaking in the panoramic landscape. On the main level, the great room offers a striking stone fireplace, reclaimed wood beam details, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Entertaining flows seamlessly from the great room into the expansive kitchen and dining areas, and out to the adjoining covered and open stone patios,
for $14,500,000
complete with a fireplace—ideal for enjoying cooler mountain evenings. The lower level is designed for exceptional entertainment, featuring a spacious family room, game room, sitting room, artist studio, and a covered stone patio with a built-in firepit. This estate is the ultimate blend of luxury, nature, and mountain living, both within the home and at the Mountaintop Golf & Lake Club. Mountaintop is an exclusive, invitation-only retreat offering a refined North Carolina mountain experience. Members enjoy world-class golf, lake recreation, and unforgettable outdoor adventures in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The mountain lodge-inspired clubhouse is the centerpiece of the community, featuring luxurious amenities including a fine-dining restaurant with golf course views, a renovated spa, a state-of-theart fitness center, resort-style pool, tennis courts, and more. The Outdoor Pursuits center offers a range of activities for all ages, including croquet, indoor basketball, pickleball, volleyball, a kids’ treehouse playground, and a dog park. Just a short drive away, the Mountaintop Lake Club provides boat rentals, dining, private beach access, and fishing. Escape to the mountains and experience the refined mountain lifestyle this home offers — the ultimate in mountain living. MLS 1000479
Cashiers East Village Offered
24+ ACRES Poised to redefine the very heart of the community, Cashiers East Village presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to acquire and shape over 24 acres in the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau’s most coveted destination. Conceived by the renowned Kessler Collection and designed by acclaimed architect Christian B. Sottile, this visionary mixed-use development seamlessly integrates boutique lodging, refined dining, curated retail, and vibrant cultural spaces with nearly one-third of the land preserved as greenspace. At its center, Cashiers Hall will serve as a cultural landmark, hosting artisan retail, educational exhibits, and community events. In addition, the project is designed as a natural extension of The Village Green
for $12,900,000
and will take full advantage of public amenities such as the Village Ramble, further enhancing Cashiers’ walkable, community-centered lifestyle. With all entitlements secured, due diligence complete, and fully approved plans ready for construction, East Village is shovel-ready today. Beyond its architectural brilliance and world-class hospitality offerings, it stands as a rare investment and legacy project — an unparalleled chance to purchase the very heart of Cashiers and guide its thoughtful growth, creating a positive and lasting impact for future generations to enjoy and protect. MLS 1001760
Highlands Cove
6 BR / 6.5 BA / 0.79 ACRE — Poised at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in the prestigious, gated community of Highlands Cove, this exceptional new construction home blends modern mountain luxury with timeless design. Perfectly located between Cashiers and Highlands, the property offers sweeping, panoramic mountain views and convenient access to the best of both towns. Thoughtfully designed across three spacious levels, the home will feature 6 bedrooms, 6 full baths, and 1 half bath—providing generous space for hosting family and guests in comfort and style. A beautiful porte cochere and motor court creates a gracious arrival, setting the stage for the refi ned interiors within which feature wide plank hardwood flooring, shiplap detailing in the foyer, halls, kitchen, great room, and dining areas and wood beam accents that add warmth and character to the mountain aesthetic. The chef’s kitchen will showcase custom cabinetry and elegant quartzite countertops, while the great room—anchored by a cozy fi replace and lined with windows—offers a welcoming place to gather and take in the views. The vaulted ceiling in the primary suite adds a sense of retreat, and each space is thoughtfully positioned to maximize natural light and mountain vistas. Outdoor living is a highlight, with expansive decks, a large stone-floored
for $5,795,000
terrace and a Carolina Porch complete with its own fi replace—perfect for enjoying cool mountain evenings and the surrounding beauty year-round. Estimated for Fall 2026 completion, this is a rare opportunity to own a new construction home in one of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau’s most desirable gated communities. Highlands Cove residents enjoy 24-hour gated security, underground utilities, community water and sewer, and high-speed fi beroptic internet. Optional club membership grants access to the Old Edwards Club’s world-class amenities, including a Tom Jackson-designed 18-hole golf course, fi ne dining at the clubhouse, a heated mineral pool, hot tub, tennis courts, and a well-appointed fi tness center. At GlenCove by Old Edwards, members enjoy an organic garden and farm, a recreational lake for paddle sports and fi shing, a 12-hole par-three course, pickleball, a state-of-the-art wellness center, and an entertainment barn complete with restaurant, bar, bowling alley, arcade, and golf simulator. Crafted for elevated mountain living, this home offers a rare blend of new construction, panoramic views, and access to a vibrant club lifestyle—inside one of the Plateau’s most coveted gated communities.
MLS 1001243
In-Town Cashiers Private Estate
6 BR / 6.5 BA / 3.63 ACRES Located in the heart of Cashiers, this 6-bedroom, 6.5-bath home sits on 3.63 acres of private, well-maintained grounds with views of Chimneytop and Rock Mountain. The gently sloping property offers ample lawn space and room to add another home or guest house, making it an excellent option for a family compound. The main residence features a large primary en-suite with its own fireplace and mountain views, plus four additional guest suites. The main level features a large kitchen including a walk-in pantry, a dining area and a living room
for $3,600,000
centered on a stone fireplace. Outdoor living is highlighted by a large screened porch for dining and conversation, along with open decking for gatherings. The lower level provides a large family room, wet bar, and second laundry for ease of entertaining and hosting. A private guest apartment is located above the two-car garage. This property offers the perfect combination of space, views, and convenience, just minutes from Cashiers dining, shopping, and intown amenities. MLS 1001771
Photo by Susan Renfro
Hiking Schoolhouse Falls
A short, scenic trek in Panthertown Valley leads to a peaceful waterfall with a sandy wading pool—perfect for families.
Panthertown Valley is 6,300 acres of back-country wilderness with 30 miles of trails and several waterfalls. The area extends from Sapphire to Lake Toxaway. Schoolhouse Falls is a favorite of many visitors. It is only about 20 feet tall, but is quite beautiful. It has a wonderful sand bottom pool at the base of the falls that is a great wading area for kids and adults alike. We found that the trail markers are small and sometimes easy to miss. The first time we visited Schoolhouse Falls,
we missed the Little Green Trail marker (# 485) and continued down the main trail until we figured out that we had gone too far. We backtracked and found the trail to the falls.
Hike Description
The trail begins to the right of the information kiosk on the right side of the parking area. Follow the trail for 0.15 miles until you come to a gravel road where you will turn left. Follow the road for approximately 0.9 miles as it
descends into the valley to a bridge that crosses over Greenland Creek. There are some obvious switchbacks along the way. Walk about 100 yards past the bridge and go left on Little Green Trail (# 485) for slightly less than 0.2 miles to Schoolhouse Falls.
Directions
From the intersection of US 64 and NC 107 in Cashiers, drive approximately 12 miles east on US 64 to NC 281 and turn left. Go about 0.8 miles to Cold
Mountain Road. The last time we were there, Cold Mountain Road was not well marked which makes it easy to miss. If you see Breedlove Road on the right, you went too far. Cold Mountain Road is just before Breedlove on the opposite side of the highway. Drive approximately six miles on Cold Mountain Road. Near the end, the road goes left and becomes gravel. Turn right in 0.1 miles on the road that leads to the parking area. by
Ed and Cindy Boos
At a Glance Waterfall Guide
Enjoy this sampling of area waterfalls, for a deep dive visit thelaurelmagazine.com/recreation.
HIGHLANDS
Bridal Veil Falls
From NC 106 in Highlands, drive 2.3 miles west on US 64; Waterfall GPS: N35.07180 W-83.22910. Difficulty: You can park your car in a little parking area and walk 50 feet.
Dry Falls
From NC 106 in Highlands, drive 3.15 miles west on US 64 to a parking area on the left; Waterfall GPS: N35.06884 W-83.23869. Difficulty: There are lots of steps you must go down to get behind Dry Falls.
Bust Your Butt Falls
From NC 106 in Highlands, drive 6.35 miles west on US 64 to the pullout on the left; Waterfall GPS: N35.09268 W-83.26573. Difficulty: Don’t stop on the road itself!
Glen Falls
From the junction of US 64 and NC 106 in Highlands, drive 1.75 miles south on NC 106 and bear left at the sign for Glen Falls. Take Glen Falls Road, not Holt Road. Drive 1.05 miles to the parking area. Waterfall GPS: N35.03128 W-83.23829. Difficulty: There’s some climbing involved here.
Upper Middle Creek Falls
From the intersection of NC 106 and US 64, follow NC 106 South for 9.3 miles. Exactly 1 mile before you reach the Georgia state line, and about 0.3 miles after NC 106 crosses Middle Creek, a yellow School Bus Stop sign will be on the right. Park on the right side of the road right at the sign. Waterfall GPS: N35.00714 W-83.32916. Difficulty: The four-tenths of a mile hike is not strenuous but it can be confusing.
CASHIERS
Silver Run Falls
From US 64 in Cashiers, head south on NC 107 for 4.05 miles – there’s a pullout area on the left. Waterfall GPS N35.06599 W-83.06558. Difficulty: No difficulty. Whitewater Falls
From US 64 west of Lake Toxaway, take NC 281 for 8.5 miles and turn left at the sign for Whitewater Falls into a parking area. Difficulty: Not strenuous, though the paved path is a bit uneven.
Cashiers Sliding Rock
Cashiers Sliding Rock, a million miles from the cares of the 21st century, is easy to get to. From the Cashiers Crossroads, travel south on NC 107 to Whiteside Cove Road. Head down the road for 2.6 miles to where the road crosses the Chattooga River and pull over just across the bridge. Difficulty: A piece of cake.
Spoonauger Falls
From Cashiers, travel on NC 107 8.2 miles. The name changes to SC 107 – travel for 4.9 miles. Turn right onto Burrells Ford Road. Drive approximately 2.0 miles to the Chattooga Trail parking area on the left (look for the Forest Service Bulletin Board) Hike north on the Chattooga Trail, which roughly parallels the Chattooga River for 0.25 mile, then cross Spoonauger Creek. Immediately on the right will be a side trail. Difficulty: There’s nothing tricky.
Schoolhouse Falls
Scan for more information on the many waterfalls in the Highlands and Cashiers area.
From US 64, take NC 281 North for 0.85 miles and bear left on Cold Mountain Road. Stay on the road. When it becomes unpaved, travel about 0.1 miles. Take the road on the right and travel for 0.1 miles to a parking area. Take the trail to the right of the information kiosk. At the intersection, proceed straight on Panthertown Valley Trail. Turn left onto Little Green Trail. Schoolhouse Falls is about 0.15 miles ahead. Waterfall GPS N35.16330 W-83.00674 Difficulty: The hike isn’t challenging.
Avian Royalty
With tuxedoed males and intricately adorned females, the Rose-breasted Grosbeak dazzles birders with its regal plumage and melodious song.
Male Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Female Rose-breasted Grosbeak
The beauty of the Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Pheucticus ludovicianus) amazes with every close-in sighting.
The female is elegantly costumed in an ermine vest, prominent white eyebrows and a cape of white-tipped feathers which, together with her striking face makeup, spans 10 shades of tan to brown to black. The formally attired male has stark black and white plumage suggestive of a tuxedo with a striking scarlet ascot. Males have pink-red and females yellow wing linings.
The Rose-breasted Grosbeak is a member of the colorful cardinal family along with tanagers and buntings. See for yourself: This is avian royalty. A large bird, both male and female rival American Robins in size. Their habitat is deciduous and mixed woods where forests give way to meadows, openings and transitional fields. Their breeding
and migratory range extends from the northern U.S. east of the Rockies into Canada and to the south as far as Central and South America.
Grosbeaks glean seeds and berries from shrubs and trees and catch insects midair. They visit bird feeders stocked with sunflower seeds. Lotharios court females with wing, tail and head movements while singing their fetching song. Both members of the pair-bond build a nest of twigs, leaves and weeds 10-20 feet off the ground. She does most of the work. He guards the territory and stays out of her way. Four eggs, usually, are incubated by both parents until the hatchlings appear in 13-14 days. Fledglings leave the nest 9-12 days after hatching. A second brood might follow.
Both males and females raise clarion voices in the woods with songs similar to the American Robin but more musical, louder, lasting 6 seconds and consisting
of as many as 20 notes. Both sit on the nest and, rare in the avian world, both sing while sitting on the nest. Their shrill calls have been likened to the sound of a tennis shoe squeaking on a hardwood floor. Recordings of their songs and calls are available on the free Merlin app. Happy October birding from the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society! 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, a Chapter of the National Audubon Society. Visit highlandsaudubonsociety.org for information on membership and all activities.
by William McReynolds, Highlands
Plateau Audubon Society
Fall Flora Highlights
Crisp air and vivid foliage make October a perfect time to enjoy native trees and late-blooming flowers. From sourwoods and goldenrod to wild blueberries and ironweed, nature quietly dazzles— ideal for a walk, garden inspiration, or simply soaking in the season.
There’s nothing quite like October in Highlands. The air turns crisp, the leaves start showing off, and the whole town is energized as we have our last hurrah before winter and the holidays set in.
Whether you’re a full-time gardener or just up here for a weekend escape, this is one of the best times to stop and take in what’s happening outside.
While the big views from places like Sunset Rock or Whiteside Mountain get lots of attention, there’s a whole world of fall beauty happening right under our noses. The native plants around here are putting on a quiet but gorgeous show.
You don’t need to go far to find color. Sourwood trees are among the first to turn, a deep red that stands out even when everything else is still green. Red maples blaze in reds and oranges, and dogwoods and blackgums add their own shades of wine and plum.
Even just walking through town or the Botanical Gardens at the Highlands Biological Station, you’ll see these trees showing off. They’re not just pretty—they’re a big part of what makes this place feel so special in fall.
You’d think by October most flowers would be done, but a few native ones are just hitting their stride. Goldenrod and asters are still blooming along roadsides and trails. They give the bees and butterflies one last snack before the season ends. There’s also ironweed, tall, purple, and kind of wild-looking. It’s not something you’ll find in most tidy gardens, but it belongs here and looks amazing.
It’s not all about trees and flowers. Some shrubs and groundcovers are putting in work. Wild blueberries turn brilliant red in fall. Fothergilla’s leaves can go yellow, orange, and red—sometimes all on one plant. Down lower, keep an eye out for foamflower. It’s subtle but beautiful.
If you’re in town and want to see these plants up close, the Highlands Botanical Garden is a great place for a walk. Everything there is native and labeled, which is helpful if you’re thinking about adding a few things to your own garden. The Highlands Mountain Garden Club has done a restoration of the Historic Jail Garden using many native plants. It’s a work in progress but worth a stroll.
Planting natives isn’t just about looks—it helps support the birds, bees, and other critters that call this place home. Plus, they tend to be lower maintenance. October in the mountains goes by fast. One day it’s all glowing gold and scarlet, and the next the leaves are on the ground and we’re reaching for wool socks. So take a walk, snap some pictures, and maybe sit on the porch with a warm drink and just enjoy it.
Happy Gardening! by Debby Hall photo by Bob Sutton
Warwoman’s Wonderful Waterfalls
Just beyond Clayton, Georgia, the Warwoman Dell trail offers a scenic hike through forested history and three stunning waterfalls—all in the footsteps of a legendary Cherokee woman.
Besides feeling like a bad*@# because of hiking on a trail titled “Warwoman,” hikers can experience three distinct waterfalls on the Warwoman Dell trail. Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Highlands – down Scaly Mountain Road (Hwy. 106) and then a little beyond Clayton, Georgia – is a popular moderate meander that leads to Becky Branch, Martin Creek, and Warwoman Dell Falls.
Supposedly named for a tough Cherokee woman bold enough and respected
enough to have the ears of chiefs and warriors when it came to tribal council war and peace talks, Warwoman Dell’s second-half meaning is “a valley among trees.” Thus, today’s outdoor enthusiasts can stroll through a valley of trees knowing that historically a confident woman may have trod there as well. And then the bonuses.
Waterfalls can be enjoyed, no matter what time of year. Although swimming at the base of some of them is undesirable and ill-advised during the
chilly and/or frigid days of late fall and winter, the pluses to seeing waterfalls in Western North Carolina are that trails leading to them are clear of yellowjackets, poison ivy, snakes, and spider webs.
Depending on energy level and time constraints, hikers can enjoy Becky Branch and Warwoman Dell Falls within a little over a mile hike – or they can hike around four miles, out and back, and add Martin Creek as well.
Starting point is at the Warwoman Dell Recreation Area. Plenty of picnic tables
are available at this parking area, if hikers want to start out or end with a spread of food.
Becky Branch Falls, naming origins unknown, is considered a stairsteptype waterfall, with water spilling down 20 feet over a cascade of rocks and misting the air around it. Not all waterfalls pool at the bottom, but this one does somewhat.
Warwoman Dell Falls is actually a tributary of Becky Branch Falls. It is also a stairstep-type waterfall, but smaller, at 12 feet in height. It is listed as a low-flow waterfall.
Martin Creek Falls, naming information also unknown, located approximately two miles from the parking area, is a two-tier waterfall, meaning water flows down in a single swath and then separates into two flows halfway down. At 40 feet tall, it is referred to as a sheer drop waterfall and has a heavy flow. It has a larger pool at its base, making it a popular hot weather destination spot to cool off during summer hikes.
Paths to get to these waterfalls are well marked with yellow blazes and are wide and adequately maintained and cleared. Besides the awesome nature of falling water, which never ceases to delight, hik-
ers will often find a plethora of varying shaped and hued mushrooms growing in moss, on logs, and among dead leaves and debris.
Also commonly viewed on this trail are the seed pods of Fraser’s magnolia, a magnificent tree that thrives in these woods. Its height and massive leaves, as well as reddish-fuchsia seed pods littering the ground, make it distinct among the oaks, maples, tulip poplars, and locust trees in abundance along the trail. Plus, these trees are a popular nesting spot for flying squirrels – so look up.
by Deena Bouknight
Into the Woods: Highlands Enchanted Forest
Celebrate Halloween with a wild twist as the Highlands Biological Foundation invites families to trick-or-treat through enchanted forest trails, meet spooky wildlife, and cozy up by the bonfire.
While the Plateau’s Halloween festivities often feature bustling streets and costumed crowds, the Highlands Biological Foundation invites families to experience the season through a more captivating lens at Enchanted Forest—an event that celebrates the magic of nature.
On Tuesday, October 28, from 5:00 to 6:30 P.M., the amphitheater behind the Highlands Nature Center will transform into a gateway to the whimsical world of the Highlands Botanical Garden. This free, family-friendly event promises forested fun, where trick-or-treating takes place under the canopy of trees and Halloween creatures come to life in their natural habitats.
Children and adults alike are encouraged to don their favorite costumes and wander the garden’s winding trails. Along the way, guests will encounter stations highlighting animals tradition-
ally associated with Halloween, such as owls, bats, and spiders, offering a chance to learn about these misunderstood creatures in a safe and engaging setting. Spooky games and nature-themed activities will keep little hands busy, while a crackling bonfire and warm drinks provide cozy comfort as the evening chill sets in.
This event is one example of how the Highlands Biological Foundation blends education with adventure.
Throughout the year, the Foundation and its centerpiece, the Highlands Nature Center, offer programs designed to spark curiosity and foster a love for the natural world.
From summer day camps and guided hikes to hands-on science workshops and wildlife encounters, the Nature Center is a hub for families seeking meaningful outdoor experiences.
Family events such as Glowing Wonders and What Bat is That? bring
science to life in unforgettable ways, often featuring expert-led talks and interactive demonstrations.
Whether you’re a local or visiting the Plateau for the season, the Highlands Biological Foundation’s Halloween celebration captures the spirit of the holiday while honoring the wonders of the natural world.
No reservations are required, but the event is weather-dependent. For more information, call (828) 526-2623 and visit the Highlands Biological Foundation’s website to explore their full calendar of programs.
by Marissa Nieddu , Highlands Biological Foundation
Scan to learn more.
Baker Preserve Awaits
Golden leaves and crisp air make fall the perfect season to hit the trails—and the newly opened Edward Baker Preserve near Cashiers offers over three miles of scenic paths through wetlands, hardwood forests, and ridge-top vistas. Just minutes from town, this dog-friendly haven is a tribute to biodiversity and a gift to hikers.
Crisp Fall days are perfect for hiking, and if you’re looking for a new place to explore, the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust’s newly-opened Edward Baker Preserve is a great choice.
HCLT acquired the property in 2021 as a gift made in the memory of Edward Baker from his family. The 63 acres provide a range of varied habitat that supports a wealth of biodiversity. Streams crisscross the lower portion of the property, with areas of boggy wetlands; dense undergrowth gives way to open hardwood forests as the property climbs toward its southern border with open vistas of neighboring ridgelines.
This ecological variety, coupled with the property’s easily-accessed location, made the Edward Baker Preserve an ideal opportunity for public trails, and for the past four years HCLT staff, as-
sisted by a dedicated group of volunteers, have constructed more than 3 miles of interlaced trails that highlight the tract’s attributes. Hikers can stay on the lower loop, which provides minimal elevation gain and traverses two bridges, or opt for the bigger loop toward the far end of the property with its vistas and a fifty-foot boardwalk over wetlands.
The Preserve is dog-friendly, although you’ll want to keep your furry companion on a leash for their own safety and that of the wildlife. At the parking area hikers will be able to access the stream via a stone path and steps and witness an in-process stream restoration project. Only steps from the parking area you’ll pass another in-process project, this one restoring an historic cabbage patch to once-again allow plantings that will provide a home for pollinators.
The Preserve is only minutes from
the Cashiers Crossroads; take Hwy 107 north for 1.3 miles and turn left on Laurel Knob Road, proceeding about 2.4 miles to the intersection with Kettle Creek Road. Turn left, and the preserve is immediately on the left. If approaching from Highlands, from Hwy 64 turn left on Norton Road, proceeding 2.7 miles to the intersection with Laurel Knob Road, take a right and in .4 miles Kettle Creek Road will be on the right. HCLT’s Edward Baker Preserve was opened to the public in June 2025 and is now open daily between sunrise and sunset. It is quickly becoming “discovered” as a fun new place to hike, and we hope that you will try it out as well! For more information on HCLT please see our website hcltnc.org and follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
by Lance Hardin, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust
photo by Andrew Renfro
Photo by Susan Renfro
The Artful Coach
Terry Warren bridges the worlds of art and business with rare finesse—bringing both sides of the brain to every canvas and conversation.
There are few productive souls who fluently speak the languages of both the left and right hemispheres of the brain. Successful artists have a solid balance of both creative and analytic sides. But largely, most artists have strength in only the creative. The joke in my family was we all had two right brains. Not a left brain among us. No business sense whatsoever, but we had stacks of ideas and creations teetering ceiling to floor.
If only we had the wisdom of Terry Warren, this month’s cover artist. He is blessed with both visual- and critical-thinking, perfectly balanced. As an executive coach, he’s in tune with the corporate world. His business encompasses a passion for art, with years of painting experience stretching from Australia to the States. Terry says, “I used to keep my business brain and artistic brain apart—and both suffered. When I finally took it down, I
discovered how powerful it is to bring my whole brain to helping others with practical insights.”
His latest endeavor is what he’s christened, The Artful Coach. He’s applying his huge basket of practical skills, techniques, and adaptations to his own work, while helping others learn that coaching and art inform each other. The Artful Coach postings provide practical insights from both sides of his brain.
In business, there’s always an undo. Same in art. The process: re-imagining, scraping the old, and painting the new. It’s the essence of Life, and Terry’s got it down to a science.
He labels himself an American Realism Artist. Bayous, wetlands, scenic cabins, and classic highland vistas are his favorite images. He’s one of those artists who’s eager to explore. What he learns, he’s eager to share, whether it’s delivering a commissioned painting of a client’s
favorite mountaintop or teaching the skills to do their own.
Since The Laurel last featured Warren, he’s climbed a few ladder rungs. See his work locally in Brier Patch, Highlands or Curate Art and Interiors in Easley, South Carolina. Visit him at the upcoming Fall Colors Show in Highlands, October 18-19. And inquire in person or online regarding his book, The Art of Choice, Making Changes That Count in Work and Life (a coalescence of his art
experience, workshops, mentors, etc.). He welcomes commissions. Contact him at: terrysart2@gmail.com. Website: terrywwarren.com. Or find him on: substack.com/@twwart.
Meet Terry at The Laurel’s October Cover Artist Reception at High Country Wine and Provisions in Highlands on Tuesday, October 14, 5:30 - 7:00 P.M. RSVP to info@thelaurelmagazine.com.
by Donna Rhodes
Artful Autumn
This fall, The Bascom unveils three dynamic exhibitions that celebrate legacy, local history, and the art of contemporary ceramics—inviting all to connect through creativity.
As we’re deep in autumn’s glory, The Bascom’s galleries transform with the season, welcoming exhibitions that reflect the vibrancy of our creative community. This fall, visitors are invited to experience three distinctive exhibitions that honor community, celebrate legacy, and showcase the expressive possibilities of contemporary ceramics. Free and open to the public, The Bascom’s exhibitions offer residents and visitors opportunities to connect with the Plateau through visual arts.
October at The Bascom
Chatov: A Retrospective of Works by Roman, Constantin, and Marc Chatov Bunzl Gallery | through January 3, 2026 Spanning 125 years of artistic achievement, this retrospective honors the contributions of the Chatov family. With paintings and sketches by Roman, Constantin, and Marc Chatov, the exhibition highlights their distinctive voices while tracing a shared
vision that continues to shape fine art across generations.
Community Call: History of Highlands Thompson Gallery | through November 29 Juried by Terri Manoogian, this inaugural Community Call exhibition invites participation from across the region, showcasing work by local artists in honor of Highlands’ 150th anniversary. Through varied mediums and perspectives, the exhibition illuminates the town’s cultural identity and history.
Forms of Inspiration: Ceramic Artists of the Bascom Clay Symposium
Joel Gallery | through November 29 For fifteen years, The Bascom’s Clay Symposium has brought together compelling voices in contemporary ceramics. This year’s exhibition features Natasha Dikareva, Thaddeus (TJ) Erdahl, and Kirsten Stingle, artists whose figurative and narrative works expand clay’s role as a medium for storytelling and reflection.
Additional Highlights
The Bascom Shop offers a rotating selection of works by local and regional artists year-round. On October 10–11, the 14th Annual Bascom Studio Pottery Show will feature handmade pottery, both functional and sculptural, crafted on-site by Bascom Studio Members. Purchases support the artists and The Bascom’s Creative Community Initiative, expanding access to the arts across our region. Visitors are encouraged to explore fall workshops, classes, and private lessons at thebascom.org.
As the leaves change, so too do the stories within our galleries—stories of heritage, innovation, and connection. Whether you’re exploring the Chatov legacy, reflecting on Highlands’ history, or discovering new voices in clay, The Bascom offers a place to pause, reflect, and be inspired by our Creative Community. by Bianca Mitchell, The Bascom: Center for Visual Arts
Thursdays
at The PAC
The Highlands Performing Arts Center’s 2025–2026 “Live on Screen” season brings global culture to the mountains with acclaimed art documentaries and British stage productions—all shown Thursdays at 5:00 P.M.
A Streetcar Named Desire
Hamlet
Frida: Viva La Vida
The Highlands Performing Arts Center is once again bringing the world’s most acclaimed stage and screen productions to the Plateau with its 2025 Live on Screen season.
From breathtaking art documentaries to searing theatrical masterpieces, the series offers a diverse cultural journey without ever leaving Highlands.
Offerings are from two distinct series: Great Art on Screen, a collection of event documentaries that provide an in-depth look at groundbreaking art masters, and National Theatre Live, which brings the best of British theatre to cinema screens.
The season opens with a captivating look into art and history. Viewers can explore the genius of Impressionism with Water Lilies by Monet: The Magic of Water and Light (October 2). The series continues with intimate portraits of groundbreaking artists, from the dual spirit of Frida Kahlo in Frida: Viva La
Vida (November 20) to the intertwined lives of painter Lorenzo Lotto and critic Bernard Berenson in Lotto & Berenson: Crossed Destinies (December 11). The lineup also features two contemporary art documentaries: Jago: Into the White (January 8), which follows a modern Michelangelo, and Painting the Soul of the 20th Century: Pellizza Da Volpedo (February 5), a deep dive into the tormented life of a masterful painter.
The stage comes alive with a stellar lineup of plays from National Theatre Live and beyond. Steve Coogan stars in a stage adaptation of Stanley Kubrick’s comedy masterpiece Dr. Strangelove (October 9). On November 13, real-life mother and daughter Imelda Staunton and Bessie Carter take the stage in Mrs. Warren’s Profession. The season also features the powerful A Streetcar Named Desire (January 15) with Gillian Anderson, the searing new play Inter Alia (February 12), and a fearless contemporary take on Shakespeare’s
tragedy Hamlet (March 5).
With each Thursday screening at 5:00 P.M., the PAC’s Live on Screen series provides a unique opportunity to experience a rich variety of world-class culture. It is a testament to the power of film to connect us to art, history, and the human condition.
Tickets and more information are available at highlandsperformingarts. com/live-on-screen. For any questions or further assistance, please contact the box office at boxoffice@highlandsperformingarts.com or call (828) 526-9047. by Jeanne Piazza, Executive Director, Highlands PAC
Scan to learn more.
Awakened by Art
Donna Clements thought creativity was innate— until Cathy Pickens showed her it could be learned, lived, and shared.
When Editor Luke proposed a series on creativity inspired by Cathy Pickens’ book CREATE, I was skeptical. I believed creativity was innate—something inherited or simply gifted. I was wrong.
Reading Cathy’s book changed everything. It’s a masterclass in understanding the creative impulse, offering fluid prompts and guaranteed results. It now lives permanently on my active reading shelf.
Meeting Cathy in person at KelseyHutchinson Founders Park deepened my admiration. We laughed, prayed, and spoke of the Originator of all things.
Cathy, the most prolific and gracious writer I know, radiates humility and kindness. Her love for The Plateau and its people is unmistakable.
Then came the CREATE workshop, hosted by Susan Whiteside Williams at her stunning Whiteside Art Gallery – a space
designed to celebrate creativity. Guests arrived as individuals, some friends, some strangers. By the end, we were bonded by shared experience and artistic exploration.
It’s a masterclass in understanding the creative impulse, offering fluid prompts and guaranteed results..
Cathy is a born teacher and a literal professor. She guided us through the psychology of creativity and led us in a writing exercise that remains the best I’ve ever encountered. After reading a model piece, she released us to write. Heads bowed, pens moved. We wrote poetry – yes, poetry – even those who weren’t poets.
The power of the written word flowed from head to heart, through soul and Spirit, and onto paper. Cathy had to intervene because none of us wanted to stop. Sharing
followed: a single word, a sentence like ribbon in a braid, thoughts that evoked and provoked. We were poets – and didn’t know it.
Then we sculpted. Cathy provided materials and simple instructions, and off we went. The beauty created in moments was astonishing. It was all that good. Actually, it was great. The poetry. The art. The instruction. The camaraderie. Cathy inspired us beyond expectation.
She also shared glimpses of her work outside traditional spaces—teaching creativity in prisons, rehab centers, and corporate towers. Everywhere, she treats people with respect, believes in their abilities, and emphasizes the process over the product.
I asked Cathy to host the workshop again. And again. And again. by Donna Clements
Final Notes I
The 2025 festival brought unforgettable performances, deepened community bonds, and reminded everyone of the magic that happens when music fills a room—and touches the soul.
have to tell you – I’m still smiling as I write this thank you to our incredible community.
Our 44th season just wrapped up, and wow, what a year it’s been!
From intimate salon performances that had us all holding our breath to those enchanting moments when the music seemed to fill every corner of our beautiful venues, this festival reminded me why we all fell in love with chamber music in the first place.
The 2025 festival brought together people from all walks of life, creating shared moments of beauty that will resonate long after the final notes faded. We saw young faces light up with wonder at their first chamber music experience, watched longtime friends and new acquaintances bond over their love of these timeless musical conversations between instruments, and felt that special energy that happens when a room full of people is completely
absorbed in beautiful music – that collective holding of breath during a delicate passage, the spontaneous applause that erupts after a particularly moving piece, the reluctance to break the spell even when the concert ends. This transformation is only possible because of the incredible individuals and organizations who believe in music’s power to enrich lives. We are deeply grateful to the Highlands Chamber of Commerce, Mountain Findings, Cullasaja Women’s Outreach, and A.L. Williams for their continued grant support. These partnerships form the bedrock that allows us to bring worldclass artistry to our mountain plateau year after year.
To our donors, sponsors, and underwriters – you are the architects of these magical experiences. Your generosity doesn’t just fund performances; it creates opportunities for a child to discover a passion, for a couple to share
an anniversary moment they’ll treasure forever, or for our community to welcome visitors who become lifelong friends of our region.
Our heartfelt appreciation goes to Faith and Fred Schwaibold for hosting our Angel Party, Dianne and Myron Mall for their wonderful Legacy Party, and Wildcat Cliffs Country Club for our elegant Gala dinner. Mary Thompson’s incredible Mountain Music Soiree created an unforgettable evening that perfectly captured the intimate spirit of our festival. These gatherings strengthen the bonds that make our musical community so vibrant.
We’re grateful to our venue partners – The Bascom, Old Edwards Orchard House, First Presbyterian Church, Highlands Hudson Library, Albert Carlton Cashiers Library, Highlands Performing Arts Center, and Cashiers Village Green Commons-Lewis Hall—for welcoming us and creating
the perfect acoustical homes for our performances.
Our salon and housing hosts deserve special recognition for their extraordinary hospitality. By opening your homes, you’ve given our artists and audiences the gift of intimate musical experiences that simply cannot happen in traditional concert halls.
Festival artist Avery Rowan brought exceptional creativity and inspiration to this season, adding visual artistry that enhanced every musical moment.
Here’s what fills me with the greatest excitement: Our 45th season in 2026 will mark our Anniversary celebration, and we’re planning something truly spectacular – a real knock-out year that will create even more of those transformative moments our community treasures. Thank you for being the heart of our musical family and for believing in the power of music to make our world
more beautiful.
With profound gratitude, by Nancy Gould-Aaron Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival Nancy Gould-Aaron
Quilts and Kindness
Celebrate fall with fabric and flair—visit the Cashiers Quilters Biennial Show on October 11 for stunning quilts, handmade crafts, sweet treats, and a chance to win a one-of-akind queen-size quilt, all while supporting local charities.
While feasting your eyes on the Cashiers Leaf Festival this fall, include a visit to the colorful vistas exhibited by The Cashiers Quilters at their biennial show. Attend on October 11, 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. in the Meeting Room at Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library. There you’ll see the group’s recent handdesigned artwork. Though donations are welcome, admission is always free.
And there’s a bonus: If you are lucky, your investment of a single dollar could win a stunning queen-size, hand-made quilt, complete with shams and throw pillow. Each member had a hand in its creation: organizing, designing, blockmaking, assembling, and quilting. Take a chance on this work of fabric-art, worth hundreds of dollars. Increase your chances by purchasing 6 tickets for only $5. Buy your tickets in advance from any member, or purchase at the show. The
drawing is at 3:30 P.M., but you don’t have to be present to win.
Winning has a double benefit. You get to take home a quilt, and your ticket contribution goes to community charity. Members select charities annually, among them, the Jackson County Senior Center. Proceeds go toward the purchase of materials into which members fashion lap blankets. JCSC distributes them to shut-ins. In addition, quilters support R.E.A.C.H. Its mission: eradicate domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
Your donations help these worthy organizations. Funds support the club’s annual expenses, including raffle quilt materials, the cost of quilt-show production, assistance for Airing of the Quilts, and donations to charities.
And there’s more. On the 11, members deliver fresh-baked, delicious treats for sale in front of the facility. Arrive
early. Goodies go fast. Then shop in their boutique of hand-made craft and gift items.
Participate in the Viewers Choice of a miniature quilt challenge. Members display their quilts anonymously. The mini-quilts are 24 inches x 24 inches or smaller. Visitors are invited to vote on their favorite.
Quilters who are aspiring, beginning, intermediate, or advanced are welcome to weekly meetings. Seasonal attendees expand the group and enrich the summer sessions. Local members meet yearround. Enthusiasts are always welcome. We gather every Thursday at 12:30 P.M. at St. Jude’s Catholic Church in Sapphire, and host an additional show each May at the Historical Society.
Visit the group’s website for more info at cashiersquilters.com. by Donna Rhodes
A DialogueAcross Time
A modern psychologist meets ancient Zarathustra in a bold dialogue on human suffering and the hope for higher consciousness.
Linda and William McReynolds
In The Professor and the Prophet, our William T. McReynolds – clinical psychologist, academic, and The Laurel’s in-house philosopher and Bird Guy – offers a cerebral yet emotionally resonant dialogue between two archetypes: a modern-day Professor and the ancient Zoroastrian Prophet, Zarathustra. Inspired by Nietzsche’s Thus Spoke Zarathustra, McReynolds reimagines the Prophet not as a cryptic oracle but as a deeply empathetic witness to humanity’s enduring suffering. The book unfolds as a philosophical exchange – a Socratic duet exploring consciousness, morality, and the future of human evolution.
The premise is deceptively simple: the Prophet, transported into contemporary times, asks the Professor a haunting question – why, after millennia of intellectual advancement, do humans still inflict pain upon one another? This question becomes the fulcrum of the book’s inquiry.
Zarathustra, shaken by modern cruelty, calls for the emergence of a “Higher Mind” – a transcendent consciousness that might redeem Homo sapiens from its self-destructive tendencies. The Professor responds with a scientific and psychological framework for this Supermind, drawing on evolutionary theory, cognitive science, and moral philosophy.
McReynolds brings a rare blend of rigor and lyricism to the text. His writing is clear yet evocative, often bordering on poetic. The dialogue is rich with metaphor but never loses its intellectual edge. Readers familiar with the tenets of Zen Buddhism, Jung, Maslow, or Teilhard de Chardin will find echoes of their thought here, refracted through McReynolds’ unique lens.
What makes the book compelling is its refusal to settle for easy answers. The Prophet is no preacher, and the Professor avoids the skeptic caricature. Instead,
both wrestle with the limits of their understanding. Their exchange is marked by humility, curiosity, and a shared yearning for transformation.
At 169 pages, the book is compact but dense. It invites slow contemplation — perhaps best read in quiet moments, pencil in hand. Ideal for readers drawn to philosophical fiction, speculative psychology, and spiritual inquiry. Those seeking plot-driven drama may find it abstract, and a well-placed jet-ski chase would almost certainly boost sales, but McReynolds maintains a clarity of vision throughout.
Ultimately, The Professor and the Prophet is a meditation on possibility. It asks whether humanity can evolve – not just biologically, but morally and spiritually. McReynolds poses this timely question with grace, urgency, and deep respect for the reader’s own capacity to think and feel.
by Luke Osteen / photo by Mary Gilllan Renfro
Beauty with a Brush
Christine Hyde channels every ounce of brainpower—from healing arts to oil painting—to create wildlife portraits that pulse with soul and energy.
Christine Hyde
When artist Christine Hyde was a kid, a teacher said to her, “You know you only use 10 percent of the power of your brain.”
Christine, taken aback, replied, “No! I’m going to use it all.”
And, true to herself and her clients, she has summoned every aspect of her thinking/feeling processes ever since: massage therapy, healing methods, alpha-, beta-, gamma-, delta-, thetawaves, neuro feedback, hypnotherapy, meditation, and more.
Eight years ago, when her hands and bones retired from 34 years of healing arts and massage, she engaged her brain’s visual/analytical knowledge to create her current intrigue – oil painting. Christine’s images (primarily wildlife) are filled with life and heart. It’s the kind of energy that flies off the canvas, straight into your soul with unique, magical, Christine brainpower.
Take that Miss Smarty-pants teacher of
long, long ago!
How did Christine step from the world of massage into that of painting? Aside from being a dabbler in paint as a child, she insists it’s not a huge leap.
“When healing with massage, I tapped into alpha-waves. That opened a door to emotion which flows down your arm and renders beauty with a brush.”
She and her husband, Charlie Hyde, live on the forest’s edge in Glenville. Bobcats, bears, deer, and more frequent their wide-open studio.
She says, “I see them and they, me.”
Maybe it’s not a physical, but a kind of emotional massage that invites animal to human. But they don’t get too close. Just enough to grab a photo reference for a stunning capture later in oil.
“In the past few years, picking up a brush again felt like a continuance, not a re-start,” says Christine.
Even though considered self-taught, she
takes workshops in far-away places with distinguished instructors.
She says, “Last year, I spent 10 days in South Africa, photographing wildlife from Cape Town and at the Kariega Game Reserve. I also attended a watercolor art retreat with instructor Sarah Stokes. This year, again with Sarah in Puglia, Italy.”
Add to those a Seattle finger-painting retreat with Kimberly Adams. And in Tennessee, oil painting with Kevin Hill. Other favorite artists are wildlife painter Joe Kronenberg and Sally Maxwell, master scratch artist.
Christine is delightful, her work outstanding, and clearly she’s a woman who engages her entire head on her amazing, artistic journey.
For more info, visit Christine’s website, artistchristinehyde.com. You can also call her at (828) 806-6436; or email artistchristinehyde@gmail.com. by Donna Rhodes
50 Years of Creative Spark
In 1975, the Arts Council of Macon County dreamed big. Fifty years later, they’re still making it happen—celebrating with a free downtown bash on October 11 featuring music, art, and family fun.
Think back to 1975. Gerald Ford was President. The Vietnam War had just ended. Eagles, Queen, and Bee Gees were rocketing up the pop charts. Andy Warhol flaunted way more than 15 minutes of fame.
Inspired by it all, the Arts Council of Macon County came up with their own dream: to expand the arts right here at home.
Now, in 2025, ACMC is celebrating its 50th anniversary. That’s a half century of Visual, Performing, and Literary Arts events, supported by the Council for the benefit of local audiences and artists from all disciplines.
Council members have made history in Western North Carolina, engaging the National Shakespeare Company, the North Carolina Dance Theatre, the U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band, and other national organizations.
ACMC is about to broaden, deepen, and widen the Arts on Saturday, October 11,
3:00 to 8:00 P.M. – Downtown Franklin is ushering in its first ever Rocktober Event. Parking and attendance are free. While enjoying music and loads of entertainment, visit merchants and restaurants, open to welcome and accommodate customers. Face painting, make-and-take projects, fairy hair, and fake tattoos are free for the kids.
Don’t miss your favorite local bands, classic rock Paradise 56 (3:00-5:00 P.M.) and West Sound featuring Gina Duke (6:00-8:00 P.M.). Bring your pets (leashed, of course). It’s a family day for mom, pop, grandmoms and granddads, pals and four-leggers.
When you want a sip of something scrumptious, purchase the world’s most amazing lemonade or strawberry dragonfruit tea.
Mike Contino, the council’s president, is excited to share the group’s new direction. He says, “The focus is no longer on the Council. The direction and support are on
the artists, with projects and events like library and school programs for children.” With loss of governing support, kids have lost educational projects and financial funding. The Council is assisting with a program called ARTReach. Art events and live music venues will be added. The ARTReach goal: replenish the Spirit of the Arts.
Contino adds, “We are helping fund the local nonprofits which will grow and improve arts programming, not advertise the Council. For example, for the coming months we hired a Celtic fiddler to perform and teach in our public schools and a Barbershop ensemble to sing at the annual Macon County Fair on September 18.”
Learn more about Rocktober and how you can help the Council during the year. Visit their website, artscouncilofmacon.org. by Donna Rhodes
Scan to learn more.
Art in Autumn
Celebrate the season with a beloved tradition as over 30 regional artists showcase their finest work at the Art League’s annual juried show, October 18–19 at the Civic Center. Free admission, vibrant art, and autumn charm await just steps from Main Street.
Along-standing fall tradition in Highlands is the Art League’s Fall Colors Fine Art Show, held annually in the Civic Center at the Rec Park.
This indoor show draws visitors from the immediate area and beyond, and many return year after year. A few folks even plan their fall trips to Highlands around the show. It’s no wonder, because more than thirty of the region’s finest artists gather to display and offer their creations for sale.
This year’s event will take place Saturday and Sunday, October 18 and 19. Both days, the show is open from 10:00 A.M. until 5:00 P.M.
This juried show offers paintings in oil, acrylic, watercolor, charcoal, pastel, and pencil. There are also unique works from woodworkers, jewelers, potters, and photographers. You are sure to find something that is a perfect fit for
your home, or that would make a nice Christmas gift which, by the way, is right around the corner.
This indoor show draws visitors from the immediate area and beyond…
Just three blocks from Main Street, the show’s venue has plenty of free parking and the comfort of an indoor setting. You could easily walk to the Rec Park, but then many who visit the show just to browse find themselves carrying out beautiful pieces.
Admission is free, although donations, largely used to advance visual art among area youth, are appreciated.
Once inside, you may find yourself staying longer than expected, enjoying
the beautiful art and chatting with the artists. Many of the artists are years-long participants, but with the Art League’s remarkable and continuing growth, several are also first-timers.
Enjoy fall in Highlands with its vibrant foliage, enticing hikes, places of interest, shopping in the unique stores, superb dining and lodging options, but be sure not to miss the Art League’s Fall Colors Fine Art Show. Like the colorful leaves, it comes but once a year!
For more info about the show or membership, visit artleaguehighlandscashiers.com.
by Donna Rhodes
Scan to learn more.
Featured Artists of the Fall Colors Art Show
Cath Connolly Hudson is a Highlandsbased painter whose work reflects the emotional depth of people and places. Inspired daily by the natural beauty of the mountains, she creates expressive pieces in oil, blending realism and abstraction to evoke thought, feeling, and a strong sense of place.
Mariya Dunn is a local artist with 4 years of formal art education who has been painting all her life. Her realistic manner, focusing on nature’s beauty, makes her paintings striking and alive. She paints the beauty of her surroundings with oils on canvas and with all her love.
MariyaDunnArt.com mariyadunn@gmail.com
Zach Claxton is a self-taught oil painter based in Highlands, NC. His representational style spans landscapes, waterscapes, wildlife, and portraits, often inspired by local scenery and national travels. A member of Oil Painters of America, he also serves on the board of the Art League of Highlands-Cashiers.
zachclaxtonart.com zachclaxton@aol.com
Leslie Jeffery is a contemporary fine artist known for large abstract compositions. Her work explores rhythm, texture, and emotion through layered color and dynamic form. With series like “Soundscapes” and “Birds and Nests,” she invites viewers into expressive worlds that balance spontaneity with thoughtful structure and visual harmony.
Terry Warren’s artistic journey began with a pencil drawing gift for a mentor. He studied in Sydney and developed a passion for realism, working from photos, memory, and plein air sketches. His paintings offer escape and satisfaction, inviting viewers to step into scenes that feel vividly real and personal.
terrywwarren.com terrysart2@gmail.com @twwart
Ann Holder creates emotionally resonant art inspired by scripture, history, and personal faith. Working in oil, acrylic, pastel, and colored pencil, her pieces reflect themes of redemption, strength, and divine love. Each work invites viewers to explore spiritual truths through vivid imagery and heartfelt storytelling rooted in biblical inspiration.
Gwen Greenglass, an accomplished impressionist photographer, creates imagery that reflects her artistic journey and vision. Using refined techniques and a masterful command of light and color, she captures fleeting moments with depth and sensitivity. Gwen’s current collection celebrates the Highlands Plateau, portraying nature’s elegance with a lyrical quality.
gwengg.com gwen@gwengg.com @gwenggphotoart
Martha Sutherland-Wright is a ceramic artist whose work explores the quiet beauty of form and texture. Through her studio, Ways With Clay, she creates handbuilt pieces that reflect her love of nature, color and whimsy. Her art invites energy and tactile connection.
The Fall Colors Fine Art Show returns October 18–19 at the Highlands Civic Center, hosted by the Art League of Highlands-Cashiers
Featuring exceptional works in oil, watercolor, acrylic, and pastel, the show highlights regional talent alongside photographers, woodworkers, jewelers, fiber artists, and potters. Attendees can meet the artists, explore diverse styles, and purchase unique, handcrafted pieces. The event offers a festive, gallery-like experience, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the creative energy of the mountains during peak leaf season. This vibrant event is just one of many initiatives led by the Art League of Highlands-Cashiers (ALHC), a dynamic community of artists and patrons dedicated to celebrating creativity across the plateau. With monthly meetings, artist presentations, workshops, and two annual fine art shows, ALHC fosters artistic growth and connection.
Members enjoy opportunities to exhibit, network, and engage with the public, all while building lasting friendships in a welcoming, art-loving environment that encourages collaboration and inspiration.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, ALHC offers a gateway into the thriving arts culture of Western North Carolina.
Barbara Sallows draws inspiration from Western North Carolina’s natural beauty. Her oil and acrylic paintings depict landscapes and wildlife with realism, energy, and whimsy. Recently, she’s embraced contemporary abstraction, crafting imaginative works that evoke escape, harmony, and peace—inviting viewers into a world both familiar and dreamlike.
Christine Hyde’s art captures life through sight, sound, and sensation. Whether painting wildlife or landscapes, she brings each canvas to life with vivid emotion and visual energy. Her work invites viewers to listen with their hearts, feel joy, and relish the experience of nature’s beauty through her expressive brushwork.
Jacque Taylor and D’Arcy Adams brought their Irish heritage and hospitality experience to life with Celtic Table, a warm, welcoming restaurant in Cashiers known for inspired cuisine and heartfelt camaraderie.
When Wolfgang’s Restaurant closed its doors on New Year’s Eve 2024 after 30 years of serving fine dining to Highlands, longtime employees Jacque Taylor and D’Arcy Adams may have faced an uncertain future. Instead, they seized the chance to build something of their own.
Adams had spent 12 years at Wolfgang’s, rising from bus boy to waiter to sommelier leading the wine program, while Taylor, with 13 years there, had managed the restaurant for over a decade. When the news broke in early December that
the restaurant would close within a month, the pair quickly resolved to open a place of their own – one that honored their shared Irish roots.
By February 2025, they had signed a lease for the former Wendy’s in Cashiers. Before diving into renovations, they took a whirlwind trip to Ireland, touring more than 30 pubs and restaurants across Dublin and Galway. They learned to pour the perfect pint at Guinness, toured the Jameson distillery and returned with notebooks of ideas and a renewed sense of purpose.
Photographs from that trip now hang on the restaurant’s walls, adding authenticity to their vision.
Back home, the renovation became a family project. Adams’s brothers helped build the bar, while Brian Lasure, a former Wolfgang’s server, pitched in on every task—painting, building, and teaching himself the craft of professional cooking. Today, he serves as Celtic Table’s head chef, guiding the kitchen with the same dedication he showed during the transformation. By July, Celtic Table was ready.
Jacque Taylor and D’Arcy Adams
The menu is rooted in Irish tradition with inventive twists. Fish and chips emerge golden and crisp, bangers and mash are rich with onion gravy, and shepherd’s pie carries the comfort of slow-cooked lamb under creamy potatoes. House-brined corned beef anchors both classic plates and imaginative creations like Reuben egg rolls. Playful spins are just as enticing. Reuben egg rolls crunch into gooey, savory richness, paired with a tangy dipping sauce. The Boxty, a traditional Irish potato pancake, is layered with Swiss and chives, topped with sour cream. And a chicken curry, inspired by their Ireland trip, has already become a house favorite.
The American side of the kitchen shows
the same care: beef Wellington wrapped in golden pastry, braised short ribs with glossy Guinness gravy, and a creamy trout dip paired with crostini. Desserts shine too. The sticky toffee pudding—a dense date cake drenched in warm toffee with vanilla ice cream—is already the signature finale.
The beverage list keeps things approachable: 45 to 50 wines spanning Bordeaux to California, alongside a growing collection of Irish whiskies and Scotch.
Perhaps most telling is the team itself. Seven colleagues from Wolfgang’s joined Taylor and Adams at Celtic Table, along with five new staff members who bring fresh energy to the dining room.
That sense of continuity – blending long-standing camaraderie with new beginnings – infuses the restaurant with warmth and polish.
For Taylor, the stretch between closing and reopening felt endless. Now, with familiar faces gathered in a new space, it’s clear: what once seemed an ending has become a spirited new chapter, best enjoyed with fish and chips and a perfectly poured Guinness.
For more information or to place an order, go to cashiersceltictable.com, but to get the true Gaelic flavor of the place, plan a visit: 341 US 64 in Cashiers.
by Marlene Osteen
by Susan Renfro
Photos
Rooted in Flavor
Chef Kelly Barbato’s Herbs de Provence Roasted Chicken—brined in beer and citrus, perfumed with lavender and thyme—embodies the seasonal soul and mountain warmth of Hotel Cashiers, earning loyal fans and culinary acclaim across the Plateau.
When Chef Kelly Barbato put his Herbs de Provence Roasted Chicken on the menu at Hotel Cashiers Kitchen & Bar, he wasn’t aiming for drama – just deliciousness. “It’s simple chicken,” he says, “but everyone who eats it, loves it.”
That straightforward confidence is rooted in a career that began in Highlands, when a teenage Barbato washed dishes at Nick’s Fine Foods and discovered the rhythm of professional kitchens. From there he cooked his way through Wolfgang’s and Cyprus, sharpened his skills at Atlanta’s King + Duke and Asheville’s RendezVous, and eventually returned to the Plateau.
At Hotel Cashiers, Barbato’s menus reflect the seasons: herbcrusted trout in summer, roasted mountain mushrooms in fall, heirloom tomatoes at their peak.
Yet this chicken has been a mainstay since the restaurant opened – brined overnight in Miller High Life, citrus, and Barbato’s own fragrant Herbs de Provence blend, then roasted until golden and perfumed with lavender and thyme.
The dish embodies the conviviality of the restaurant itself, an upscale yet welcoming lounge that pairs farm-to-table plates with craft cocktails, curated wines, and the easy
warmth of a mountain retreat. Accolades from Conde Nast Traveler, Southern Living, and Garden & Gun have spotlighted Hotel Cashiers as one of the Plateau’s most inviting destinations, but it’s dishes like this chicken – rooted in place, elevated by technique – that make guests linger by the fireplace and locals return week after week.
Kelly Barbato’s Herbs de Provence Roasted Chicken
Ingredients
Herbs de Provence blend (equal parts):
• Lavender
• Thyme
• Marjoram
• Fennel seed
• Oregano
• ¼ cup kosher salt
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the brine:
• 8 oz Miller High Life (or any light lager)
• ½ orange, sliced
Kelly Barbato
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon Herbs de Provence blend
• Water to cover Chicken
1 whole chicken, cut into halves, or 4 breasts or thighs Method
1. Make the brine base. In a saucepan, bring 2 cups water, the kosher salt, sugar, and 1 tablespoon of the Herbs de Provence blend to a boil. Stir until the salt and sugar dissolve.
2. Assemble the brine. In a large container, place the beer, orange slices, and bay leaf. Add the hot herb mixture, then stir in plenty of cold water (and ice, if needed) to cool the liquid completely.
3. Brine the chicken. Submerge the chicken pieces in the cooled brine. Cover and refrigerate for 18–24 hours.
4. Roast the chicken. Remove the chicken from the brine and pat dry. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Roast until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 35–45 minutes depending on the cut.
5. Serve. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with seasonal vegetables or a crisp salad for a dish that captures the spirit of the Plateau.
by Marlene Osteen | Photos by Mary Gillan Renfro
Spellbound Sips Moonlit Magic
Summer may have been all about chilled reds, but as October creeps in with its crisp air and haunted vibes, it’s time to uncork whites that cast a cozier, more mischievous spell.
Marlene Osteen
This summer we talked about chilled reds for hot days, so it seems only fair to flip the script now that October’s here. The leaves are falling, the air has a bite, and the calendar’s packed with Oktoberfest revelry and Halloween chills. Most people reach for reds, but this month I’m here to haunt your cellar with whites that prove a chilled bottle can be cozy – and a lot more fun – when the nights turn dark.
First up: Assyrtiko, Greece’s volcanic phantom. The Domaine Sigalas Santorini is sharp as a silver dagger – bracing citrus, salty minerality, and a spine of stone. It cuts clean through roasted root vegetables, grilled trout, or creamy mushroom pasta. Think of it as the ghost at the table: pale, shimmering, unforgettable.
Then there’s Chenin Blanc, the Loire Valley trickster. One sip of the Domaine Huet “Le Haut-Lieu” Sec is like biting
into a caramel apple, only to find a flicker of honey and waxy silk behind the fruit. This shape-shifter of a wine can play sweet or dry, bright or lush. It’s a bewitching match for pork chops with apples—or as a foil for the Halloween candy you swore you wouldn’t touch.
For something with a little more flesh and bone, summon a white Rhône blend. The E. Guigal Côtes du Rhône Blanc mixes Marsanne, Roussanne, and Viognier into a potion of stone fruit, spice, and nutty richness. It’s tailor-made for Oktoberfest feasts: bratwurst, sauerkraut, pretzels, or creamy butternut squash soup. One glass and you’ll believe in white magic.
Chardonnay? Don’t be scared – it’s not the butter-bomb monster under the bed anymore.
The 2021 Ramey Russian River Chardonnay is golden apple, brioche, and toasted hazelnut wrapped in velvet. It’s the wine equivalent of a warm cloak
on a cold night – perfect with roasted salmon, lobster mac, or a trial run of Thanksgiving turkey.
And finally, Grüner Veltliner, Austria’s sharp-toothed charmer. The 2021 Nigl Freiheit Grüner Veltliner from Kremstal is widely available and hits the bullseye: zesty lime, crisp green apple, and that signature white pepper bite – like the snap of a jack-o’-lantern grin. Pair it with sausages, kraut, or roasted Brussels sprouts, and it’ll dance through your Oktoberfest spread like a mischievous poltergeist.
So this October, don’t fear the white. Chill it, pour it, and let these bottles put a spell on you. To track them down – or conjure up even more wickedly good options –seek out Owner and Sommelier Stephanie Miskew at Highlands Wine Shoppe, where the cellar is a cauldron of delights and every bottle holds a little magic.
by Marlene Osteen
Southern Chefs Heat Up Highlands
As autumn paints the Blue Ridge Mountains in fiery hues, The Farm at Old Edwards turns up the culinary heat on Sunday, October 26, with a soulstirring feast from three celebrated Southern chefs—Chris Huerta, Sam Fore, and David Bancroft—blending tradition, innovation, and irresistible flavor in a night of food and music.
Though the leaves may be ablaze with autumn color in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s the culinary fire that will truly ignite on Sunday, October 26, when The Farm at Old Edwards hosts Southern Chefs Potluck—an evening where food, music, and fellowship convene at long communal tables under the Highlands sky. Three powerhouse chefs—Sam Fore of Tuk Tuk Snack Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, David Bancroft of Acre in Auburn, Alabama, and Chris Huerta of Madison’s in Highlands—are joining forces to create a feast that celebrates their roots while showcasing the creativity that has made them culinary stars.
Sam Fore, widely known as the “Sri Lankan Snack Queen,” brings a layer of vibrancy all her own. At her Tuk Tuk Snack Shop in Lexington, she reimagines the bold flavors of her family’s heritage with food she affectionately calls “the love child of Indian and Thai.”
A James Beard finalist and media
favorite, Fore is as fearless with flavor as she is with storytelling, and her dishes are always as colorful as her personality.
David Bancroft adds the hearty, soulful cooking that made him a four-time James Beard semifinalist and winner of Food Network’s Iron Chef Showdown . His Auburn restaurant Acre and his smokehouse Bow & Arrow have cemented him as a master of Southern bounty—whether that means blue crab pasta, perfectly smoked ribs, or garden-fresh vegetables turned into comforting sides. Chris Huerta rounds out the trio with his elegant yet grounded approach to cuisine. Raised in Aiken, South Carolina, Huerta’s passion for food began with the influences of his grandmother’s emphasis on nutrition and his grandfather’s dairy farm. His early experiences in bakeries and kitchens led him to train under acclaimed chefs, including Gunter Seeger at Relais & Châteaux properties, where he honed
his technical precision. Over the years, Huerta has been instrumental in shaping Madison’s into a culinary destination in Highlands, while also serving as Executive Chef at Old Edwards.
Together, these three culinary voices will create an evening where live music builds a joyous backdrop while diners experience the evolution of Southern cuisine. Expect the unexpected: Fore’s coconut curry-kissed deviled eggs, Bancroft’s smoke-kissed ribs, or Huerta’s refined farm-to-table creations that speak to both tradition and innovation.
This is more than dinner—it’s a celebration of Southern hospitality reimagined through three distinct but harmonious chefs, each telling their own delicious story of place, tradition, and creativity. Get your tickets online at OldEdwardsHospitality.com/ ChefDinners.
by Marlene Osteen
Wine and Wonder
The Highlands Wine Shoppe hosts intimate tastings during the Highlands Food & Wine Festival (Nov 13–16), featuring exceptional wines and unforgettable food. Highlights include a star-studded Harvest Lunch, rare Napa Cabernets, and a Master Sommelier–led French wine tour—all blending tradition, storytelling, and flavor.
When the Highlands Food & Wine Festival returns November 13–16, one of its most anticipated stops is the Highlands Wine Shoppe, now in its fourth year of ownership by Certified Sommelier Stephanie Miskew and her husband Steve, who curate events celebrating friendships forged over 20+ years in the food and wine world. During the weekend, the shop becomes a gathering place for chefs, winemakers, and guests to share bottles and stories. This year’s program is rooted in tradition and discovery, and as intimate and lively as the Shoppe itself.
Friday, November 14, brings the 4th Annual Harvest Lunch (noon to 4:00 P.M., $250), a long-table feast created by Chef Ken Naron of Envie Catering. Naron’s style reflects his Louisiana upbringing and years in some of the Plateau’s finest kitchens; he cooks with instinct and warmth. His harvestinspired menu sets the stage for a tasting
stroll that straddles continents—Old World classics alongside the exuberance of New World bottles. It’s a rare chance to explore the contrasts and connections that define wine.
For those who want to go deeper, a limited add-on Private Cellar tasting features Chris Carpenter, the celebrated Napa Valley winemaker behind mountain icons like Cardinale, Mt. Brave, and La Jota. Carpenter’s wines are famed for their intensity and longevity, and hearing him speak about farming high-altitude vineyards adds depth to the glass.
On Saturday, November 15, the Shoppe turns its lens on Napa with “Oakville Legacy x Meyer Family Cellars” (1:30–3:30 P.M., $175). Few names have shaped California wine like Justin Meyer, co-founder of Silver Oak. His son, Matt Meyer, carries that spirit forward with Meyer Family Cellars, founded in 1999. For this event, Meyer is pulling bottles from the family cellar—Cabernets rarely
seen outside California. It’s a family chronicle in a glass.
Later that afternoon, the tent becomes a passport to Europe with “Vinous Tour de France” (4:30 to 6:30 P.M., $175).
Guiding the journey is Eric Hemer, one of only four people in the world to hold both Master Sommelier and Master of Wine credentials. His tasting, built from the Frederick Wildman portfolio, spans Champagne, Sancerre, Alsace, Burgundy, Rhône, and Bordeaux. With Hemer at the helm, it’s less lecture than revelation—an opportunity to see why France remains the benchmark.
The Highlands Wine Shoppe tent has become a festival centerpiece because it offers something rare: the chance to sit close, taste deeply, and hear winemakers explain what shaped each bottle. These events always sell out—they feel like a seat at the family table, where every glass tells a story.
highlandswineshoppe.com for info.
Chili and Cheers
As autumn paints the plateau in fiery hues, the community gathers to celebrate the season’s bounty, brisk evenings, and bold flavors at the muchanticipated Chili Cook-Off on October 16 at the Cashiers Village Green.
Autumn is the season of celebration here on the Plateau as we give thanks for another glorious season, nature’s beauty and bounty, and friends and family.
We’re enjoying breathtaking blue skies, blazing autumn leaves, our first taste of chilly weather, evenings by the fire, and of course the 19th annual Chili Cook-off co-hosted by the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce and Landmark Realty Group, held this year on October 16, from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M. at the Cashiers Village Green. This beloved event is the perfect wrap up to the Cashiers Business After Hours series when the entire community comes together for the season finale with plenty of heat, lots of heart, friendly competition, and community cheer. Join your fellow business owners, friends and neighbors for an evening of culinary delights, cold beverages and good camaraderie.
A dozen or more local cooks as well
…battle it out for the title of Best Chili in Cashiers.…
as a few pros from nearby restaurants battle it out for the title of Best Chili in Cashiers. You can compete solo or as a team. Expect to enjoy chili and cornbread recipes of every kind and nature from mild to knock your socks off fiery. Some will be so subtle that you will linger over your sample a bit longer than normal trying to identify that one unique ingredient. Others may have you rushing to the drinks stations for a cooling beverage and a quick break before moving on to the next sample. You’re bound to find a favorite here.
Lauren Dahl, General Manager and Broker-in Charge at Landmark Realty
Group says that “this chili cookoff is the ultimate kickoff to fall-good food, friendly competition, and community all in one! As a newcomer to the company, I can’t wait to experience it for myself, and I’m especially excited about some new twists we’re bringing to this year’s event.”
New twists? We can’t wait to see what those are and what they add to this fantastic event so whether you attend every year or will be a first timer this year, come one and all to this eagerly anticipated culinary celebration. For more information or to volunteer to help visit landmarkchili.com or call (828) 743-5191. This event is free to participants and the public, a fitting thank you to all who have made this season such an enjoyable and successful one.
by Mary Jane McCall Scan to learn more.
Oksana Shchelgachova
Magic in the Mix
Oksana Shchelgachova is bringing a little Highlands magic to the big screen as a contestant on Food Network’s Halloween Baking Championship —and we couldn’t be more excited to cheer her on.
Here on the Plateau, the name Oksana Shchelgachova evokes more than just admiration—it stirs affection, delight, and a sweet sense of hometown magic. As the owner of Edelweiss Pastry Boutique, Oksana draws from the warmth and spirit of her Ukrainian roots to create desserts that are miniature masterpieces—each one crafted with intention, memory, and heart. We at the Laurel are still glowing with pride over the confections she created for our 20th anniversary celebration—each adorned with an edible butterfly so delicately sculpted it seemed to flutter with wonder.
Now, Oksana has stepped onto a national stage as a contestant on Food Network’s Halloween Baking Championship, bringing with her the spirit of Highlands and the soul of Edelweiss. But her journey into the spotlight wasn’t without its trials.
The most unexpected challenge came at the very start of filming. “It was shocking, brutal, and it knocked the wind out of me,” Oksana shares. After nearly seven years of dreaming about the competition, she stumbled in the very first challenge. “I cried without stopping. But then I wiped my tears, smiled through the pain, and told myself: Yes, I may lose one day — but not today.”
That moment became a turning point. She rose, trembling but determined, and stepped back into the fire—stronger, braver, and more resolved than ever.
Nerves were a constant companion in the competition. “The ticking clock seemed to steal the air from the room,” she recalls. But instead of letting it shake her, Oksana adapted. She memorized every corner of the kitchen, trusted her instincts, and let her hands lead the way. “Faith became my anchor, even in the storm.”
The experience transformed her. “I came in as a chocolatier, but I walked out a
baker in every sense of the word,” she says. The pressure carved resilience into her like scars turned to armor. “Now, if you woke me in the middle of the night and told me I had two hours to create a cake, I’d dive in without hesitation.” But she adds with a wink, “If you let me get some sleep first, then the cake will be not just done — it will be exquisite. Because even warriors bake better after a little rest.”
Oksana’s time on the show is already reshaping Edelweiss. “Until now, we were known for our chocolate creations,” she explains. “But now, piece by piece, I’m bringing in the very desserts I created on the show.” Each week, as new episodes air, she plans to add that week’s spooky treat to the shop menu—inviting guests to taste the journey alongside her.
More than flavors, she’s bringing back a philosophy: saying yes to risk, trusting creativity, and daring to share the unexpected. “Desserts that carry not just flavor, but a little bit of the magic, the fearlessness, and the joy the show awakened in me.”
Standing on a national stage, Oksana felt the weight—and the honor—of representing Highlands. “This little town has given me so much,” she says. “I wasn’t just Oksana competing — I was a hometown girl standing for all of us.”
Her pride was braided with gratitude. “Highlands is now on the national map in this sweet and spooky way, and I got to be the one to carry our story into that spotlight.”
With the competition behind her, Oksana is dreaming bigger than ever. “I feel
ready for anything,” she says. One of her greatest wishes? To open a European restaurant in Highlands, inspired by her grandmother’s recipes and the flavors of her childhood.
“There’s so much still to cook for this town, so much still to give,” she says. “The future feels like a feast, and I cannot wait to share every bite.”
From the quiet hum of Edelweiss to the high-octane kitchen of Halloween Baking Championship, Oksana Shchelgachova has proven that artistry, resilience, and love can rise like the perfect soufflé—even under pressure. Highlands is lucky to call her its own— and the rest of the world is just beginning to taste what she’s made of.
by Marjorie Deal
Oksana Shchelgachova in the kitchen of Food Network’s Halloween Baking Championship.
A Seat at the Story
As Highlands Food & Wine fills the town with flavor and festivity, two special dinners at On the Verandah invite guests to gather around the table for evenings of exceptional wine, inspired cooking, and stories shared in good company.
When Highlands Food & Wine rolls into town next month, the buzz will surely be about the big tents and big stages. But some of the festival’s most memorable moments happen away from the spotlight, at tables where wine, food, and story converge.
This year, On the Verandah — where Highlands diners have gathered for decades to pair fine wine with Chef Andrew Figel’s cooking — is hosting two back-to-back dinners that promise exactly that kind of magic.
On Friday, November 14, the Barrett name — practically Napa royalty — comes to Highlands. Hosting the evening is Remi Barrett, daughter of Heidi and Bo Barrett, who helped write the story of California wine. Heidi was the force behind cult legends like Screaming Eagle; Bo etched his mark with Chateau Montelena, whose victory at the 1976 Judgment of Paris stunned the world.
Now Remi carries that legacy forward
with her own voice and perspective. Imagine sipping a glass while she shares what it was like growing up in the first family of Napa — that’s the intimacy these dinners offer.
The following night, Saturday, November 15, the vibe shifts from Napa history to Paso Robles passion. Brock Waterman of Brochelle Vineyards arrives with wines that smell of sun-warmed earth and taste of ripe berries and spice. He and his wife built Brochelle vine by vine, dry farming their land with grit and devotion. The result is wines that feel deeply personal, layered, and bold. At this dinner, Waterman will guide you through each pour — the kind of one-on-one connection you don’t get from reading a label.
Both evenings begin at 6:00 P.M. with passed hors d’oeuvres that set the tone — perhaps a silky bite of salmon, a crisp tartlet, or a morsel meant to spark conversation. Guests then sit down to a multi-course dinner crafted by Executive Chef and owner Andrew Figel. Figel’s
cooking is known for its balance: refined yet soulful, inventive yet rooted in classic technique. His plates are designed not just to impress but to dance alongside great wines. Expect him to rise to the occasion with menus that showcase these extraordinary bottles.
Seats are $250 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are available by phone or at resy.com, where menus will be posted as the dates draw closer. With the caliber of wines and the intimacy of On the Verandah’s dining room, these dinners won’t linger open for long.
So yes, the festival will be filled with music, laughter, and revelry. But if you’re looking for two nights where Napa history and Paso passion meet Highlands hospitality, you’ll find them at a table overlooking the lake, where you can sit with the people behind the wines, hear their stories, and taste the passion in every glass.
by Marlene Osteen photos by Mary Gillan Renfro
October and Oysters
On October 18, Highlander Mountain House hosts its beloved Saturday oyster roast, blending fall foliage, Pelican Oysters, craft brews, and live bluegrass into a festive Highlands tradition.
This October, Highlander Mountain House is embracing the season with a new monthly tradition that’s quickly becoming a local favorite: Saturday afternoon oyster roasts.
Set against the backdrop of peak foliage, the October 18 gathering promises an unforgettable blend of mountain hospitality and coastal flavor. From 3:00 to 5:00 P.M., guests will gather on the grounds of Highlander Mountain House to savor Pelican Oysters – fresh, briny, and perfectly chilled. The oysters, sourced with care, are complemented by craft brews from Charleston’s Munkle Brewing, whose Belgian-style ales add a rich, malty note to the afternoon’s offerings. But it’s not just about the food and drink. The event pulses with the energy of live bluegrass music, echoing through the crisp mountain air and inviting guests to tap their feet, raise a glass, and soak in the spirit of Highlands. The setting itself
– Highlander Mountain House, with its blend of Appalachian elegance and European flair – adds a layer of warmth and sophistication to the rustic roast. This new tradition is more than a culinary event; it’s a celebration of community, seasonality, and the unique culture of Highlands.
As we’ve noted in past issues of the Laurel, Highlander Mountain House has long been a beacon of thoughtful hospitality, drawing visitors with its curated interiors, locally inspired cuisine, and commitment to creating meaningful experiences. The oyster roast is a natural extension of that ethos – welcoming locals and travelers alike to gather, connect, and revel in the beauty of fall.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or a leaf-peeping visitor, the October Oyster Roast offers a perfect excuse to slow down and savor the season. With the leaves ablaze in color and the scent
of woodsmoke in the air, Highlander Mountain House invites you to pull on a sweater, grab a pint, and join the celebration.
Mark your calendar for October 18 — and prepare to make this roast a cherished autumn ritual.
by Luke Osteen
Duck Hawk Rises
A once-silent smokehouse on Highway 64 has been reborn as Duck Hawk
Provisions—a vibrant blend of gourmet market, café, and community haven that’s quickly become Cashiers’ newest gathering spot.
When Jason Dauble walked into the shuttered Cashiers Valley Smokehouse this past May, he saw possibility and a chance to keep a local landmark alive.
The former Atlanta restaurateur-turned Plateau home builder recognized that the beloved Highway 64 spot deserved a thoughtful refresh, one that would honor its legacy while giving it new purpose.
By the end of May, Dauble was leading a whirlwind renovation, transforming the familiar red building into a pewter-green
outpost brimming with life.
Three months later, Duck Hawk Provisions opened its doors. The reborn space hums with a mix of gourmet market, café, wine shop, and community gathering spot. The original smokers still work overtime, turning out whole chickens, racks of ribs, and Boston butts, honoring the building’s barbecue legacy while broadening its menu in bold new directions.
The day begins with a heady mix of coffee and pastry. Bagels shipped in
from Brooklyn pair with bacon-egg biscuits, sausage biscuits, and grit bowls simmered in cream until lush, then topped with bacon, scallions, and cheddar. Sarah’s Sweets supplies blueberry scones, lemon bars, and coffee cake – temptations that draw in regulars before 9:00 A.M.
By mid-morning, the glass cases gleam with new offerings: hot ciabatta layered with ham and Swiss, Italian sandwiches, club wraps, racks of ribs pulled from the smoker, and Dauble’s already-famous
dips. The smoked ahi tuna is silky and briny; the “Dirty Bird” dip blends shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar, and a sly kick of sriracha; the Augusta cheese dip riffs on the Masters tradition with pimento-laced richness. For those craving more, charcuterie boards are built to order with cured meats, cheeses, honeycomb, and garnishes. The cold case rotates daily, stocked with salads, fruit, meatloaf, lasagna, and frozen desserts from Dogwood Bakery in Decatur – including flourless chocolate cake and New York cheesecake, by the slice or whole.
The wine program reflects Dauble’s passion for European bottles, especially rosés and grower champagnes. About
75 selections line the shelves -- French, Italian, Spanish, and a few Oregon Pinot Noirs – augmented by local craft beers. His philosophy is simple: “Come for coffee, stay for champagne – once you see the space, you’ll cancel your plans and meet your neighbors for champagne.”
Outside, bocce balls clack on the court, dogs lounge near the firepit, and friends gather over glasses of wine. A new wine club, the Peregrine Club, named for the falcon that inspired the shop’s name – launches this fall, offering tastings, special releases, and community events. Inside, hats, sweatshirts, margarita mixes, and dog treats extend the brand’s playful reach.
Dauble is there daily, hands in every
order, every plate, every pour – but he’s quick to point out that Duck Hawk is not a solo effort.
“I couldn’t pull this off without the hard work of my General Manager, Colin Bard, and my Chef, Jesse Coffeen,” he says.
Together, the team has shaped Duck Hawk into more than a market or café – it’s a place of connection. What began as a thoughtful refresh of a beloved building has grown into something larger: a gathering place where neighbors linger, friendships form, and the spirit of Cashiers feels right at home.
by Marlene Osteen
photos by Mary Gillan Renfro
Jason Dauble
Plateau Dining Guide
Restaurants
of the Highlands Cashiers Plateau
HIGHLANDS AREA RESTAURANTS
4118 Kitchen + Bar
64 Highlands Plaza (828) 526-5002
Don Leon’s 462 Dillard Roads (828) 482-1513
526-3554
Highlands Supper Club 96 Log Cabin Lane (828) 482-1578
Hummingbird Lounge 455 Main Street Highlands, NC (828) 787-2525
The Kitchen CarryAway & Catering 350 S. Fifth Street (828) 526-2110
Club Wyndham Resort at Fairfield Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-3441
Foxhunt at Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-7667
Hampton Inn & SuitesCashiers-Sapphire Valley - (828) 743-4545
Mt Toxaway Lodge & Motel - (828) 966-4582
Sapphire Run at Whisper Lake - (863) 412-5734
Whispering Falls - (352) 470-4085
Woods at Buc - (770) 714-9211
SCALY MOUNTAIN, NC:
Fire Mountain Resort & Spa - (800) 775-4446
The Vineyard at 37 High Holly - (828) 505-6190
LAKE TOXAWAY, NC:
Cabins at Seven Foxes - (828) 877-6333
Earthshine Lodge - (828) 862-4207
Greystone Inn - (828) 966-4700
Lake Toxaway Realty Company - (828) 508-9141
BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL
This embroidered top, paired with vivid red pants, creates a bold yet balanced ensemble. The shirt’s intricate detailing contrasts beautifully with the pants’ clean lines, resulting in a look that’s vibrant and confidently modern.
Soft curves meet sculptural form in a piece that grounds the room with gentle drama—equal parts function and art, it settles into a space with quiet confidence and a touch of whimsy.
Champagne Pouf | $ 398 Rusticks | Cashiers
Plateau Picks A few of our favorite things
STYLED TO PLAY
A fresh spin on tradition, this Mahjong set features soft turquoise tiles with playful Southeast-inspired designs, a coordinating mat, and a zippered case with tassel detail. Multiple styles available to suit your game and your aesthetic.
My Fair Mahjong Set | $ 350 Peak Experience | Highlands
THE OUTSIDE VOICE
This waterproof speaker isn’t just built for sound—it’s built for life outside. Whether you’re on the river, at a festival, or hosting a backyard cookout, it delivers booming clarity with a design that’s as bold as its volume.
A hand-thrown Charlie West lamp, glazed in his signature Blue Spruce, pairs with a Fermoie shade in Orange Popple—hand-sewn in England from 100% linen. Earthy glaze meets woven glow in a quiet statement of texture, tone, and timeless charm.
Charlie West Lamp | $ 910
Fermoie Shade | $ 480
Toby West Home | Cashiers
SKINCARE REFINED
Elevate your skincare routine with this curated selection from Circadia—featuring gentle cleansers, targeted treatments, and revitalizing masks. Designed to nourish, renew, and restore, each product blends science-backed ingredients with everyday ease for radiant, healthy skin.
Crafted from hooked wool with a richly textured surface, this decorative pillow brings cozy charm and casual elegance to any porch or sitting area. Its bold design and soft feel make it a perfect accent for relaxing moments and laid-back gatherings.
Hook Wool Lumbar Pillow | $ 70
C. Orrico | Highlands
SLIP INTO SOFTNESS
This textured knit brings comfort with a quiet kind of charm—an open-front layer that drapes with ease, made for porch light, foggy errands, and the hush between seasons.
After 51 years of curating Native American art and earth-born treasures, the Nelson family is passing Silver Eagle to the next generation, ensuring their family-run galleries in Highlands and Naples continue to thrive with fresh vision and deep-rooted values.
For the Nelson family of Highlands and Naples, Florida, working together at Silver Eagle has been a wonderful way to combine their talents and prosper.
Silver Eagle began in Wisconsin 51 years ago as a dream of Craig and Deborah Nelson. With Craig’s background in botany and Deborah’s background in art, they decided to open a small retail store selling live plants, local art, handmade pottery, and Native American jewelry.
The Nelsons began a lifetime of learning about Native American history,
art, and culture.
“We love the personal connection between the jewelry and the artist,” Craig said. “The sterling silver pieces we sell are handmade by American artists not mass produced in a Chinese factory.”
In 1996, they opened another store in Naples. The success of the Naples store required the Nelsons to travel more often. Trips to the Dakotas for Plains art, travels along the Rio Grande River for pueblo pottery, visits to the reservations in New Mexico and Arizona for jewelry, and years of developing relationships
with Native American artists and traders resulted in an impressive collection.
“Our personal philosophy of being honest and respectful to our customers and artists is the foundation of Silver Eagle.”
Deborah said, “We are proud of the way we have represented Native Americans.”
On a trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains for Cherokee art, the Nelsons fell in love with the area and purchased a farm near Highlands, North Carolina.
Their son Ben, a silversmith, potter, and glassblower had just finished college. In 2002, Silver Eagle opened in Highlands.
Mia and Ben Nelson
It became a family business when Ben became the gallery manager.
A few years later, daughter Heather, a professional fashion photographer in New York, joined the family on buying trips to the West. In 2010, she moved to Naples and developed the company’s website silvereaglegallery.com. In 2012, Heather took over as manager and creative director of the Naples gallery. Soon after, Ben’s wife, Mia, owner of Highlands Mountain Paws, began assisting with buying and display.
“It is a joy to work with our adult children,” said Deborah. “They have grown up in this business. Now, they bring their own artistic talents and vision which keeps our business current and fresh.”
In 2006, the Nelson family decided to expand and add a gem and mineral department to both galleries. “We’ve continued to have a strong emphasis on Native American art, and the addition of crystals, gems and fossils has added a new dimension,” said Craig.
Word spread quickly and both galleries have attracted customers interested in geology, science and metaphysics.
“We have had a great time learning about the gems and minerals. Buying trips to gem shows and connections with miners and traders from Brazil, Madagascar, Tucson, Peru and Mexico have been exciting for all of us,” said Deborah. “It seems we’ve found a great combination. Treasures from the earth
and metaphysical items work so well with indigenous art.”
This year Heather, Ben and Mia will purchase Silver Eagle and take over the reins as owners. Craig and Deborah will step into a well-deserved retirement.
“It has been a wonderful collaboration, and we are so grateful to have spent so many years working alongside our family,” said Deborah.
“We will be there to advise, and we are confident our family’s business is in capable hands,” added Craig.
Four young grandchildren are already helping out at times so the legacy of this family business will continue.
L to R: Heather Neils, Ben, Deborah and Craig Nelson
L to R: Cathy Hansen, Jen Abeyta, Maxine Smith, and Sophia Waters
Craig and Deborah Nelson
Martha Anne’s Fashion High
Situated on Fourth Street in Highlands, Martha Anne’s on the Hill is a boutique that exudes charm, individuality, and a sense of fun that’s as unique as the woman behind it. Martha Anne has carefully curated a collection of shoes and apparel that speaks to the independently stylish woman who isn’t afraid to express herself. More than a woman’s clothing store, Martha Anne’s is a destination where fashion is celebrated with joy, offering shoes and apparel for the independently stylish woman with a sense of fun. The playful selection of shoes is just the beginning – Martha Anne’s distinctive style is evident in every corner of the store. Each item is handpicked with a sense of fun and sophistication, making it easy to find something that both elevates and modernizes your wardrobe. Customers rave about their experiences, calling it one of their favorite spots in Highlands: “I LOVE shopping at Martha Anne’s! She has such stylish clothes and awesome shoes, and the atmosphere is so fun.”
Martha Anne’s
256 S. 4th Street, Highlands (828) 526-4473
Colleen Kerrigan (left) is wearing corduroys by Olivia, blouse by Renuar, and boots by Sam Edelman
Marci Sherwood (right) is wearing pants and blouse by Renuar, jacket by Isle, and boots by Sam Edelman
Flat Mountain Farm, Highlands NC
photos by Susan Renfro and Mary Gillan Renfro | Styling by Tracy Mendy
Robin’s Nest Fashion High
Robin’s Nest in Cashiers offers everything you need at this moment to make your life a little easier – and crucially, nothing you don’t need. Each collection is carefully curated, concise and considered, from apparel, jewelry, wedding and hostess gifts, to home décor, art, one of kind finds to florals and custom design arrangements. Discover jewelry lines worn by celebrities – Kennith Lane, Julie Vos, and Karine Sultan – along with up-to-the minute fashion apparel from designers Gretchen Scott, Barbara Gerwit, Sugarlips and more. Whether you’re decorating your home from scratch, updating a room, jumping on a plane, looking for a perfect gift, or heading to a wedding or an event, Robin’s Nest has the perfectly designed and intelligent solution. Their dedicated team is available to offer advice from personal styling to home design solutions. Offering contemporary women’s clothing and accessories focusing on comfort and style, Robin’s Nest brings you high fashion and staple pieces with bold colors and flattering styles for your wardrobe.
Robin’s Nest
426 Hwy. 107 S., Cashiers (828) 743-2004
Colleen Kerrigan (left) is wearing shirt by Sunday, sweater by Astrid, pants by Robell, shoes by Steve Madden, necklace and earrings by GL Treasures, sunglasses by Frayes, and purse by Made in Italy
Marci Sherwood (right) is wearing sweaters by Adore, jeans by FDJ, shoes by FS/NY, jewelry by Julie Vos, sunglasses by Frayes, and purse by Consuela
Flat Mountain Farm, Highlands NC
photos by Susan Renfro and Mary Gillan Renfro | Styling by Tracy Mendy
The Look Boutique Fashion High
Owner Wendy King is celebrating her seventh year at The Look Boutique in Cashiers. Over the years, the shop’s fresh fashions have expanded from beloved clothing lines to include exciting new designer offerings, drawing both loyal followers and firsttime visitors. Wendy and her team are known for creating a warm, joyful atmosphere, offering personal styling and one-on-one consultations that make shopping feel effortless and fun. Housed in a former private residence, the boutique’s inviting setting complements its carefully curated selection of clothing and accessories. The Look Boutique offers everything from polished, dressy attire to country club casual and comfortable yet stylish everyday pieces. It has earned a reputation for its extensive selection of pants and essential tops – items customers return for again and again. With a focus on artful design, timeless classics, and wardrobe essentials, The Look Boutique has become a destination for seasonal visitors and yearround residents alike.
The Look Boutique 137 Hwy. 107 N., Cashiers (828) 200-9573
Colleen Kerrigan (left) is wearing blouse and pants by Lior Marci Sherwood (right) is wearing dress by Lior, handbag by Samser Design, and jewelry by Brighton
Flat Mountain Farm, Highlands NC
photos by Susan Renfro and Mary Gillan Renfro | Styling by Tracy Mendy
Wish & Shoes Fashion High
Wish & Shoes opened its newest North Carolina location in Cashiers in September 2024, building on the success of its Highlands debut in 2019. Founded by entrepreneur Rachel Gottfried, the boutique is a luxury fashion destination offering a curated mix of clothing, shoes, handbags, jewelry, and accessories from both American and European designers. Known for service levels usually found on Rodeo Drive, owners Rachel and Peter work closely with clients, providing personalized styling and even shipping sizes for at-home try-ons. Their collections range from easy daytime looks to polished evening outfits, with many pieces created exclusively for Wish & Shoes. The two Plateau locations reflect a commitment to offering women of all ages head-to-toe fashion that can’t be found anywhere else in the region. With three additional boutiques in South Florida and a newly launched online shop, Wish & Shoes continues to expand its reach in the luxury fashion world. Wishandshoes.com
Wish and Shoes
211 S. 4th Street, Highlands 125 US Hwy 64 W., Cashiers
Colleen Kerrigan (left) is wearing ivory sweater, coat with cable knit sleeves and trousers by Iris Setlakwe, and suede pumps by Gabor
Marci Sherwood (right) is is wearing a dress and bolero from Maison Lurex, diamond and sterling silver earrings from Alkimya by Shayand, and suede pumps from Gabor
Flat Mountain Farm, Highlands NC
photos by Susan Renfro and Mary Gillan Renfro | Styling by Tracy Mendy
SPRING VILLAGE
400. Jannie Bean Fine Custom Jewelry
405. McCulley’s
Visit Our Advertisers NorthHighlands,Carolina
WEST END
1. On The Verandah Restaurant
2. Highlands Smokehouse
3. High Country Wine & Provisions
5. The Bascom: Center for the Visual Arts
6. The Bascom Shop
7. The Dave Drake Ceramic Barn at The Bascom
SOUTH END
22. Trailborn Highlands
23. Highlands Supper Club
25. 4118 Kitchen & Bar
27. Dauntless Printing
37. Lupoli Construction
38. Howard Hanna Allen Tate/ Pat Allen Realty Group
39. Highlands Decorating Center
44. Unfurl Wellness Spa
45. Don Leon’s
46. Dusty’s
48. ACP Home Interiors
50. The Summer House
51. Nancy’s Fancys/The Exchange
59. Head Innovations
60. Divine South Baking Company
MAIN STREET
101. Main Street Nursery
102. Rosewood Market
104. Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center
106. Los Vaqueros
113. Edward Jones
120. Eight on Oak
121. Highlands Wine Shoppe
123. The Park on Main Hotel
124. Landmark Realty
128. Primary Kitchen + Bar
132. Elevation: High Fashion for Women
134. The Southern Way
136. Dutchmans
141. Main Street Gifts
146. Wit’s End Shoppe
147. Calders Coffee Cafe
148. Highlands Fine Art & Estate Jewelry + Wine Shop
149. Highlands Mountain Paws
151. Highlands Kids
152. Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty
153. Allison Diane Clothing
158. C. Orrico
160. TJ Bailey for Men
163. Spoiled Rotten
164. Silver Eagle Gallery
166. Annawear
167. The Christmas Tree
168. Natural Selection
169. Country Club Properties
170. Highlands Pizza Place
175. Monkee’s of Highlands
180. Bijou
185. Ristorante Paoletti
187. The Dry Sink
191. Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
Meadows Mountain Realty
195. Old Edwards Inn
196. Madison’s Restaurant
197. The Wine Garden
198. Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar
202. Hudson Library
203. Country Club Properties
207. One Wicker Cheese Co.
208. Highland Hiker Shoes
210. Creative Concepts Salon
211. Highland Hiker
WRIGHT SQUARE on MAIN
(Factoid: Named after Whiteside hero)
114. Dead Artists Gallery
115. The Baked Bunny
117. Country Club Properties, Wright Square Office
For a complete listing please visit our website, thelaurelmagazine.com.
Being added to our listing is easy! Simply advertise with The Laurel.
Visit Our Advertisers
NORTH 107
2. Zookeeper Bistro
6. Slab Town Pizza
19. The Look Boutique
20. Mountain Mermaid
21. Sashay Around Ladies Boutique
THE
SHOPS AT CASHIERS COMMONS
22. Joan Anderson Interiors
25. Bella Cotn Boutique
27. Bird Barn & Garden
28. Cashiers Kitchen Co.
29. Dr. Anita, Medical Aesthetics
30. Bombshell Hair Boutique
31. The Watershed Shoppe
33. Zoller Hardware
AT THE CROSSROADS
36. Buck’s Coffee Cafe
37. Landmark Real Estate Group
39. Cashiers Farmers Market
41. Highland Hiker
CHESTNUT SQUARE
47. Lehotsky & Sons, Builders
54. Mountain Home Consignments
55. Fusion Yoga & Wellness
55. The Bungalow Boutique
59. Las Margaritas
EAST 64
62. Laurel Terrace:
- Natural Element Homes
63. Alexander Gardens:
- Victoria’s Closet
- Victoria’s Closet Shoes & Purses
- Vic’s for Men
72. Ingles Plaza
- Allen Tate/ Pat Allen Realty Group
73. Blue Ridge Bedding
74. Carolina Rustic Furniture
79. Jennings Builders Supply
VILLAGE WALK
80. A-List Antiques
80. Josephine’s Emporium
80. Laura Moser Art
82. The Village Hound
85. Children’s Edit
86. Nora & Co.
87. The Corner Store
89. Nearly New Furniture Consignment
90. Gracewear Boutique
95. Objet D’Art
SOUTH
107
102. TJ Bailey’s for Men
107. Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Meadows Mountain Realty
110. McCulley’s
111. Rusticks
112. Vivianne Metzger Antiques
113. Brookings Fly Shop & Cashiers Village Outfitters
115. Chestnut Cove
116. Florida Trust Wealth Management
118. Chattooga Gardens Nursery
120. Cashiers Valley Real Estate
121. Robin’s Nest
123. Caliber Fine Properties
126. David Harley MD
127. Poane Gallery
128. Mountainworks
Custom Home Design LTD.
130. The Cashiers Store
131. Daniels Communities
136. Cashiers Sotheby’s International RealtyThe McKee Group
137. Bounds Cave Rug Gallery
138. The Orchard Restaurant, Events Barn & Guest Cottage
THE VILLAGE GREEN
142. Village Green Commons
143. The Village Green
WEST 64
145. Edgewood Antiques
146. Shoppes On The Green: - Sugar Creek Custom Cabinets
150. Wish and Shoes
151. Allure Home & Gifts
154. Duck Hawk Provisions
155. Cashiers Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center
156. Creekside: - Cashiers Celtic Table
159. B.H, Graning Landscaping
172. Whiteside Art Gallery
173. Betsy Paul Properties
176. Lenz Gifts
DOWN 107 NORTH
➡ Bazaar Barn
DOWN 107 SOUTH
➡ Silver Run Reserve
VISIT BREVARD
➡ Platt Architecture
VISIT GLENVILLE
➡ Crawford Construction
➡ Four Seasons Landscape
➡ Happs Place
VISIT LAKE TOXAWAY
➡ Balistreri Realty
➡ Charlie’s Hot Buns
➡ Grand Olde Station
➡ The Greystone Inn
➡ Headwaters Outfitters
➡ Historic Toxaway Market
➡ Killer Bees Honey
➡ Lake Toxaway Company
➡ Los Vaqueros
➡ Moondance Kitchen
➡ Mountain Construction Engineering
➡ Sweetwater Perk & Creamery
➡ Village at Longclif
VISIT SAPPHIRE :
➡ Burlingame
➡ Casa Amigos Bar and Grill
➡ Osteria del Monte
➡ Sapphire Valley Real Estate
➡ Whistlin’ Dixie
VISIT SYLVA :
➡ B.H. Graning Landscape, Inc.
➡ Riverstone Development Group
➡ Riverstone Pools & Spas
For a complete listing please visit our website, thelaurelmagazine.com.
Being added to our listing is easy! Simply advertise with The Laurel.
LAKE TOXAWAY Pages 184-195
Photo by Susan Renfro
Moondance Shines
Moondance isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a revelation, where every detail sings and every bite feels like a celebration of pure culinary joy.
After three decades of defining the Plateau’s culinary scene -first with Wild Thyme, then at Meritage where wine was everything –Andrea Schmitt has opened Moondance, and it might be her best work yet.
At Meritage she forged a partnership with chef Justin Burns – one that’s now blossomed anew at this latest venture in Lake Toxaway.
Moondance, which opened this summer along Highway 64, a wine bar with food, is equal parts sizzle and style. The transformation of the former office
building is remarkable.
Andrea’s husband, architect Paul Schmitt, raised the low-slung entrance into a dramatic, angled space with a high ceiling, giving the exterior its midcentury modern lines and a sweeping sense of arrival. Step inside, though, and the atmosphere shifts: ceilings drop, the scale narrows, and you’re drawn into an intimate art deco interior. Vintage tile, polished wood, bold glass fixtures, a zinc-wrapped bar, and a wall of industrial wine shelving make the space both glamorous and inviting.
And then there’s the food. Every bite is spectacular, every dish a star – rigorous yet playful, the kind of food Andrea and Justin themselves most want to eat. Paninis and salads come off the menu with unexpected flair and complexity: a Cuban pressed with Spotted Trotter meats, roasted portobello paired with creamy goat cheese, and pastramied cobia, a twist on the Reuben.
A voluptuous lobster roll finds chunks of real Maine lobster dressed in classic style, stuffed into a griddled, buttered top-split roll. It’s a dish that tastes like
Justin Burns
it was plucked from a New England shoreline, a level of detail that leaves diners marveling, “This is so much more than I expected.”
Evenings at Moondance are reserved for Fridays and Saturdays, when the menu transforms into a tapas-style playground showcasing global flavors in small, shareable bites: steak frites with shiitakes and brie, Spanish-style crudos, tuna tartare, sushi-inspired temaki rolls, and aromatic Thai selections. You get the sense it’s a menu created by two people chasing down ideas, guided only by taste, skill, and self-assurance – which in Andrea and Justin’s case run happily high.
Alongside all of this, the deli case is a
daily draw, offering soups, side dishes, entrées, and desserts to take home—recently including artichoke and crab soup, spinach manicotti with house Bolognese, lemon ricotta cheesecake, and a towering seven-layer carrot cake.
Burns brings serious depth to the partnership. He trained with top chefs in Colorado, later opened his own restaurant in Davidson, North Carolina, and has been part of the Plateau food community for more than 15 years. His background includes time in the wine business as well, which dovetails seamlessly with Andrea’s passion and makes him an ideal collaborator in a concept where wine and food share equal billing.
True to Andrea’s roots, the wine
list anchors Moondance. With more than 300 selections, it emphasizes boutique producers, older vintages, and small-batch winemakers who prize quality over volume. Guests can sip by the glass, share a bottle, take home a bottle, or attend tastings with importers and winemakers announced throughout the year.
The name Moondance reflects both music and the open night skies of Lake Toxaway, where the moon feels close. It’s an apt metaphor for the space itself: bold, luminous, and just intimate enough to make you want to stay awhile.
There’s more information (and that exquisite menu) at moondance-market.com. by Marlene Osteen | photos by Susan Renfro
Andrea Schmitt
Whitewater Wonders
Explore the breathtaking Whitewater Falls—highest east of the Rockies—and its dramatic recovery after the 2016 wildfire, plus discover how it connects to the scenic Foothills Trail through the heart of the Blue Ridge Escarpment.
Exploring Western North Carolina
This month I would like to cover one of the most well-known waterfalls in the area, Whitewater Falls, which is known to be the highest east of the Rockies. Information is also provided on the Whitewater Falls to Foothills Trail. This spectacular waterfall and trail are a short drive south of Lake Toxaway on 281, towards the SC border. Similar information can be found in my new travel guide, titled Exploring Western North Carolina, which covers many highlights in the region.
Something many people may not be aware of is the fire that affected this area in 2016. Wildfires burned 23 acres around Upper Whitewater Falls, destroying the stairway and access to the observation deck, the site was temporarily closed. With about $85,000 in funding from the Federal Highways Administration’s Eastern Federal Lands division and a grant from REI, the stairway was rebuilt and improvements were made to parts of the Foothills Trail,
including the bridge below the falls. The observation area officially reopened on June 29, 2017.
For the best views of Whitewater Falls, visitors can follow the paved, wheelchair-accessible walkway from the parking area to the upper overlook or descend 154 steps to a lower overlook. While the overlooks provide the safest and most scenic views, hikers are reminded to never climb on rocks near the path, where several accidents have occurred. With the exception of the two overlooks near the top, no other views of the falls are offered.
Take a left at the Foothills Trail sign below the lower observation deck. It’s a moderate, yet steep half-mile downhill trek to the bridge over the rushing water. There are large rocks along the shore, perfect for enjoying a picnic, and the majesty of the river rapids is all around you. This journey entails a strenuous uphill climb back to the
parking area. Sturdy hiking boots, water, and snacks are recommended. The trail drops 600 feet before linking to the 85-mile Foothills Trail.
This scenic trail winds through the Blue Ridge Escarpment across North and South Carolina. From the junction, hikers can head east toward South Carolina and Lower Whitewater Falls, with trail maintenance supported by the Foothills Trail Conference and the Nantahala Ranger District.
by Chad Moon, Sapphire Mobile Massage sapphiremobilemassage.com
Horse on the Edge
Donna Clements rides into story and spirit at Whitewater Equestrian Center, where a piebald horse carries her through a realm of reverence and beauty.
Donna Clements
Icall myself an experiential writer – I write best about what I live. But when Editor Luke asked me to write about Whitewater Equestrian Center, I imagined the story before I ever left my desk. I titled it Horse on the Edge, envisioning myself atop a horse on the edge of the Blue Ridge Escarpment. That word – Escarpment – thrills me.
Life on the Plateau feels like living on the edge: of adventure, of discovery, of soul-stirring beauty.
I worried my imagination had galloped too far ahead. Traveler’s regret is real –when reality fails to meet the dream. But Mr. Kayren Hinkle and his team erased that fear. His pedagogy – wrapped in sunlight and breeze – offered lessons in equine science, botany, history, geography, and well-being.
My guide, K., was perfect. For reasons unspoken, I needed a lead. She walked beside me for hours, guiding Kiwi, the statuesque piebald horse, through
forest trails. Her knowledge of horses and plants was encyclopedic. She spoke to the horses in a language few understand, and they responded with love. She pointed out mint, ginger, cedar, poke berry – each plant named, known, and honored.
We followed Cherokee paths, the incline gentle, the forest whispering.
“Is this the edge?” I asked.
K. explained that fall reveals the IMAX version of the view, but even now, we’d sense it through the lace of leaves. And we did.
Above Whitewater Falls, overlooking South Carolina’s lowlands and Lake Jocassee’s diamond shimmer, I gasped, “This is it!” The wind wasn’t blowing, but I felt it rush through me. The view was the wind.
This place is sacred. You want to whisper, to tiptoe. It takes grit and grace to run an equestrian center here. It’s not
for the weak-kneed, but accommodations exist. It’s not for the limbered of soul, but encouragement abounds.
Whitewater Equestrian Center embodies everything we Plateau-dwellers cherish – respect for man, beast, and land. It offers the chance to be who we are, to live what we envision. For me, it was the chance of a lifetime: to sit on the back of a horse on the edge.
by Donna Clements
Photo by Susan Renfro
Highlands Golf Legacy
While Bobby Jones remains a legendary figure in Highlands golf history, the roots of the sport on the Plateau stretch back decades earlier, with pioneers, pasture courses, and community clubs shaping a vibrant golfing tradition that continues to thrive in the mountain air.
It is a common perception that the history of golf on the Highlands Plateau begins and ends with Bobby Jones. While inarguably one of the greatest golfers of all time and a definite influence on the growth of golf in the Highlands area, Jones was not the first golfer to strike a ball in these mountains. Golfers and golf courses existed here long before Jones discovered the joy of playing golf in this perfect mountain setting.
By 1905, George Inglesby, with help
from some college boys and mountaineers, constructed a three hole golf course on the corner of First and Main Streets. He built a second nine hole course in the pasture next to the Pierson Inn, then known as Muddy Hollow. Today, it is the site of the Highlands School. The course remained in use until 1920.
Around 1920, Tudor and Meta Hall constructed another nine hole course at their Hall House property which stretched from near the corner of 5th and Main Streets to the corner of 6th and
Chestnut Streets. The course was laid out along a small lake on the property and many golfers simply skipped the last hole which forced them to play across the lake to a small green. It seems that golf balls didn’t come cheap in the 1920’s. It wasn’t until 1927 that golf, like it currently exists in Highlands, became a reality. Scott Hudson, of the Atlanta Athletic Club, and world-famous golf architect, Donald Ross, joined together to design and construct Highlands Estates south of town. The club, now known
as Highlands Country Club, included a 42 bedroom clubhouse with a nine hole course which was expanded by Ross and Hudson in 1930 to the current eighteen hole course of today. The course was constructed by local laborers and it took over 125 workers, five teams of horses and three large tractors to tame what had been a thick forest into an immaculate golf course with emerald fairways and greens, surrounded by flowing creeks and a lake.
One of the club’s initial directors was Colonel Robert Jones, Sr., whose son, Bobby, was the most famous golfer of the day. He was the first golfer to play the original nine hole course and promptly set the course record which stood for years. The course became his summer practice grounds in 1930 as he went on to complete the Grand Slam - winning the British and U.S. Open titles and Amateur titles in the same year. To this day, he is the only golfer to ever do so.
Golf exploded in the Highlands area in the years that followed. In order to cater to the summer vacationers and the general public, a Tom Thumb course was
built on Main Street providing miniature golf to people of all ages. Another miniature golf course was built at Helen’s Barn in 1959, so children would be occupied as their parents danced the night away inside the Barn.
Two new country clubs were formed in the early 1960’s in what had been the primeval forest stretching northeast of town towards Whiteside Mountain. Sky Lake Golf Course, now known as Highlands Falls Golf Club, and Wildcat Cliffs Golf Course were built as community golf clubs with vibrant memberships. Both clubs offered members golf, tennis, croquet, swimming, and dining that rivaled any clubs in the east. The mountain beauty of each course was, and remains today, unparalleled.
In 1987, a fourth club was opened - the Cullasaja Club - which featured an eighteen hole course designed by Arnold Palmer. The course is centered around the Cullasaja River and its source and includes over 600 acres surrounding Ravenel Lake. The newest golf community in the area was built just across the Jackson County line on 435 acres as a
semi-private course known originally as Highlands Cove. Now owned by the Old Edwards Hospitality Group, the course is known as the Old Edwards Club and plays host to members and guests of the Old Edwards Inn.
Golf has been a major influence on the growth of Highlands through the years. Whether a scratch golfer of world renown or a duffer whose only glory was a hole-in-one on a miniature golf course, memories were made and people returned to the mountain air that can only be found on this mountain oasis of the southeast. It is a paradise for golfers and duffers alike.
Come learn more about the history of golfing in the Highlands and other pastimes on the Plateau at the Highlands Historical Village. The Village is open Thursdays thru Saturdays from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. and on Sundays from 1:00 to 4:00 P.M. Admission is free. Visit highlandshistory.com for more information.
by Tracy Foor, Highlands Historical Society
Sacred Ground, Enduring Stories
The Cherokee once called Macon and Jackson counties home, where towns like Cowee and Nikwasi thrived amid sacred landscapes, resilient traditions, and legends that still echo through the mountains of Western North Carolina.
Long before winding roads carved through Macon and Jackson counties, this land was sacred to the Cherokee. Their towns – Cowee, Nikwasi, and others – were spiritual and political centers. Cowee, nestled in present-day Macon County, was once the capital of the Middle Cherokee. Explorer William Bartram, who trekked across the Plateau in 1776, called it “one of the most charming natural mountainous landscapes anywhere to be seen.”
The Nikwasi Mound, still visible in Franklin, marked the heart of a thriving town. By the mid-18th century, colonial expansion pressed in. Treaties like Hopewell (1785) and Holston (1791) attempted to define boundaries, but settlers often ignored them. “We are determined to have our land,” a Cherokee leader declared, “and will not suffer white people to take it from us.”
During the Revolutionary War, the Cherokee allied with the British, hoping to preserve their territory. In retaliation,
General Griffith Rutherford led a brutal campaign in 1776, burning over 50 Cherokee towns—including Cowee and Nikwasi. A settler wrote, “The smoke of their villages hung in the air like a mourning veil.”
Southern Jackson County, though less documented, was part of this contested borderland. After the Treaty of 1819, settlers flooded the Tuckasegee River valley, and the Cherokee were forced to cede vast tracts of land—often under duress.
Yet the Cherokee endured. They rebuilt towns, preserved traditions, and resisted removal. “We are the people of the mountains,” said a Cherokee elder in 1810. “Our stories are in the stones and the wind.” Even as the Trail of Tears loomed, some remained, forming the Eastern Band that still calls Western North Carolina home.
When we lived in Whiteside Cove, my son and I often hiked to Granite City and the Whiteside Trail. The Cherokee lore
surrounding these are steeped in mystery and reverence. Known as Sanigilâ’gĭ, Whiteside Mountain’s gleaming quartzite cliffs inspired its name—“like a sheet of ice.”
One legend tells of a stone bridge that once connected Whiteside Mountain to the Hiwassee River, destroyed by lightning in a divine act. Another tale speaks of Spearfinger, a stone-skinned monster who preyed on children. Her razor-sharp finger was her weapon, her heart hidden in her right hand. Guided by a chickadee, the Cherokee struck her down.
Granite City’s massive boulders, though less prominent in lore, were likely part of the sacred geography. These stories weren’t just myths—they were moral lessons, warnings, and cosmological maps. Even today, hikers report a strange stillness, a sudden chill. The Cherokee believed the land remembers—and sometimes, it speaks.
by Luke Osteen
I Grew Up Here: Sharing Her Light
Known for her warmth and storytelling, Naomi Chastain looks back on the quiet courage that helped her find her voice—thanks to a teacher’s kindness and a journey that shaped the woman Highlands knows and loves today.
If you happen to run into Naomi Chastain when you’re out and about in town, at church, or at The Bascom where she has worked for 40 years, you’ll notice two things immediately.
First, she’s clearly found the fountain of youth, but she insists on keeping that secret to herself so we’ll move on to the second–she is a people person, always ready with a warm smile and warmer greeting.
And she’s a natural storyteller.
You’d never guess that Naomi was once very shy and she credits her 8th grade school teacher, John Gordon (Miss Wilma’s late husband) with helping her overcome crippling shyness.
Her earliest school years were at the Moccasin School just over the state line in Georgia where she was an excellent student. You’ve heard stories that start with “through wind, rain, sleet and snow.” Naomi actually lived that as she had to walk two miles each way to school for her first two years. By
her third year her brother, Novie, started school and Georgia allowed their bus across the state line into North Carolina to pick them up.
She transferred to Highlands School in the 8th grade and it was an entirely different world.
Moccasin School had a total of 50-60 students, Highlands had 20-25 in one class. Naomi says she was terrified, she couldn’t speak, couldn’t move. She wanted to fade into the background and did, never uttering a word, keeping to herself and longing to quit school.
She even tried to convince her Dad to let her quit and stay home to help with housework and care for her mother whose health was poor. Her Dad thought about it a bit and wrote a letter to her teacher, Mr. Gordon, which Naomi handdelivered, hands trembling.
Naomi doesn’t know what her Dad said in that letter but Mr. Gordon pulled her aside one day and said “Naomi, I’m going to
Naomi Chastain
help you through this.”
He initially put her desk behind the coat rack in the back of the room and told her just to listen. That took so much pressure off.
Soon, he told her she could answer if she felt like it, even if the answer was so soft it was barely a whisper. It worked – she was soon timidly answering questions. Her desk was gradually moved from behind the coat rack to the last row and soon enough the first row.
She remembers vividly that by Thanksgiving she was so at ease that when students were asked to walk to the front of the classroom and list their family’s Thanksgiving Day menus on the chalkboard she happily and confidently did so. With a hearty laugh, she remembers including “taters” in the menu.
Naomi is thankful to this day for Mr. Gordon’s understanding and guidance. We are too – just imagine all the stories we’d miss if she hadn’t discovered her voice.
by Mary Jane McCall
photos by Susan Renfro
Naomi, age seven
Forever at Satolah Creek
Nestled in Highlands, Satolah Creek Farm offers couples a multi-day, storybook wedding experience infused with artistry, nature, and heartfelt intention— transforming celebrations into lasting memories woven into the land itself.
Driving onto the grounds of Satolah Creek Farm feels like stepping into a dream you didn’t realize you had. Rolling pastures where miniature Highland cows graze lazily, donkeys bray in welcome, and white ducks skim across the pond. It’s a place where time slows down, where nature and artistry entwine, and where weddings become more than a single day—they become a memory etched into the land itself.
That sense of enchantment is no accident. Pippa Seichrist and her husband Ron have poured a lifetime of creativity and devotion into the farm. Once founders of a world-renowned design school, they turned their hands to restoring this century-old homestead near Highlands, shaping it with the same intention they’ve brought to every part of their lives. That commitment to connection and beauty is the heartbeat of Satolah Creek.
Couples who choose the farm are given something rare: time. Most venues allow only a few hours, a blur of vows, photos, and goodbyes. At Satolah Creek, the celebration unfolds over days. Guests can arrive early, settling into the Carriage House that sleeps six or the three-story Blackberry House in the woods that accommodates up to 14. The farm has recently acquired two additional properties, with expanded lodging options.
The farm offers both one-day and two-day packages, though most couples choose the extended celebration and often add even more days. Rehearsal dinners stretch long into the night beneath the pergola, firepits glow with s’mores, and mornings begin with fishing in the pond or pottery lessons in Pippa’s studio. Instead of scattering after the ceremony, family and friends linger, savoring the simple magic of being together. The ceremonies themselves carry their
own poetry. Up to 100 guests can gather to watch couples stand before a towering locust-wood arbor wrapped in drapes or flowers, with the pond and fountain sparkling behind them and Highland cows ambling across the hill beyond. For those concerned about weather, a covered pergola provides elegant shelter while maintaining the outdoor feel. Guests walk past the donkey paddock on their way in, greeted by the animals crowned with blossoms in the wedding colors.
Brides arrive in a white carriage drawn by the farm’s Clydesdale—or sometimes astride him—like something out of a storybook. When vows are exchanged, the celebration flows seamlessly into a cocktail hour beneath a great maple tree, where wine barrels serve as tables and a vintage tap truck pours from small wooden kegs.
At dusk, the barn doors swing open and the reception begins under a
pergola laced with twinkling lights. The mobile tap truck relocates from cocktail hour to the reception site, creating a unique experience as guests follow the celebration from space to space. Trees glow softly, the fountain shimmers, and dancing fills the lower deck overlooking the water. Guests wander between laughter and music, eventually circling the firepit as the night winds down, stars pricking the sky overhead. It is rustic yet refined, timeless yet utterly personal. What makes it all feel so distinct is that every detail has been shaped with intention. Pippa provides “forever flowers”—lasting blooms and decorations including lanterns and table runners that couples can use for their décor, though they’re welcome to work with a florist or nearby flower farm.
Most brides blend both approaches, using forever flowers for table settings while choosing fresh arrangements for their personal flowers. The farm maintains a curated list of trusted vendors, though couples can also use their own preferred professionals.
The Carriage House, once a stable, was transformed by Pippa and Ron during the pandemic, without architects or designers. Its reclaimed wood floors are patched with walnut hearts, its furniture built in the farm’s workshop, its walls hung with painted eggs sent from Ukraine by the biological mother of their children. Every object has a story, every corner holds meaning. For wedding guests, it is more than lodging—it is stepping into a living museum of love, art, and memory.
The farm was never created to be a wedding venue. The first wedding was their daughter Olya’s, and transforming the land for her big day revealed what Satolah Creek could be: a place of gathering, of joy, of belonging. Since then, dozens of couples have chosen it not because it follows trends, but because it doesn’t. It feels real, lived-in, touched by human hands and warmed by history. Pippa herself, ordained and always willing to say yes, often officiates, but every couple is free to shape the celebration in their own way.
At its heart, Satolah Creek Farm is about connection. It gives brides and grooms more than photographs and a reception—it offers time, space, and beauty to be with the people they love most. As one groom mused, he couldn’t wait to cast a line into the pond in his tuxedo after the vows, because where else could you do that? That blend of intimacy and whimsy, of fairy-tale charm rooted in the soil of real life, is what makes Satolah Creek unforgettable.
For those who choose it, a wedding here is more than a ceremony. It is a gathering of stories, a weaving of family and friends into the fabric of the farm itself. It is love that lingers past the last dance, carried on in laughter around the fire, in the bray of donkeys crowned with flowers, in the glow of lanterns among the trees. It is, quite simply, a place where weddings feel like they belong to forever.
To discover all of its possibilities, visit satolahcreekfarm.com.
by Marlene Osteen
Partnering for Impact: A Trustworthy Path to Meaningful Giving
The Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation is the trusted leader in advancing health and well-being across the Plateau, making it the perfect partner for organizations and donors dedicated to creating lasting, positive impacts in our community.
When it comes to making a meaningful impact on our community’s health and wellbeing, the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation is leading the way across the Plateau. If your organization is interested in hosting a philanthropic event, the Health Foundation could be the perfect partner. Here’s why partnering with the Health Foundation makes the process easy and ensures that your charitable contributions truly make a difference. Why Partner with Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation?
Transparency, accountability, and stewardship are essential to the Health Foundation’s mission. The Health Foundation carefully evaluates every organization it supports, ensuring only credible and mission-aligned groups receive funding. This thorough selection process protects donors and partners from funding ineffective or inappropriate projects.
Managing the grant process is another important way the Health Foundation adds value. The Foundation manages the distribution of funds, handles all administrative details, and provides continuous oversight. This means that after grants are awarded, the Health Foundation checks in with recipient organizations to ensure that funds are used for their intended purposes. For donors and partners, this provides peace of mind. When you raise funds through the Health Foundation, you can be confident that your contributions are supporting a worthwhile cause and are being managed responsibly. Perhaps most importantly, the Health Foundation
charges no administrative fees, ensuring that 100% of your donated funds go directly to supporting health initiatives.
Partnership Programs that Make a Difference
Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation takes pride in its long-standing partnerships that have sustained community health over the years. The Bob Jones Invitational at Highlands Country Club has been a cherished fundraising event for 43 years. This prestigious tournament honors golf legend Bobby Jones and maintains a tradition of excellence. The Bob Jones Invitational features Walker Cup players and boasts an impressive history of supporting primary care and essential health programs in our community.
Similarly, the Healthy Homes Initiative has played a critical role in transforming the living environments of vulnerable populations within our area. By addressing basic housing conditions such as mold remediation, improved ventilation, and structural repairs, the initiative helps reduce health risks related to poor housing. The emphasis on creating safer, healthier homes directly supports residents’ physical well-being and contributes to long-term community health outcomes.
Building on these strong experiences, the Health Foundation is pleased to highlight its new partnerships designed to increase the philanthropic impact in our community. The Country Club of Sapphire Valley Gives program is a dynamic, collaborative effort that harnesses the power of community giving to make a difference. Additionally, partnering
with Highlands Falls Country Club has created an exciting new opportunity for fundraising and community engagement. Both organizations share a common goal of improving the lives of young people in our community.
By partnering with Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation, you join a trusted and dedicated organization committed to elevating the quality of life across our region. Through thorough organizational vetting, rigorous research, and impactful program delivery, the Health Foundation provides an exceptional platform for your charitable ambitions—ensuring every dollar raised drives real, meaningful change. The demand for grants and support far surpasses the resources available, underscoring an urgent need for increased community investment and collective action. Whether you are an individual donor, a community group ready to make a difference, or an established organization, partnering with the Health Foundation connects you to a collaborative effort focused on building a healthier, more vibrant future.
by Josh Bryson, Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation
Financial Focus® A Retiree’s Guide for National Financial Security Month
If you’re retired, it’s easy to let your finances go on autopilot. Since October is National Retirement Security Month, it’s a good time to revisit some areas that can impact your long-term financial security and help your money last a lifetime.
Consider these suggestions:
Manage your withdrawal rate. You’ll likely need to tap into your retirement accounts, your IRA, and 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored plan.
But think carefully about how much income you withdraw every year. If you take out too much, especially in the early years of your retirement, you risk outliving your resources. You have the option of withdrawing from these accounts at age 59½.
Once you turn 72, you’ll be required to take out at least a certain amount each year based on your age and account balance. Estimate health care costs. When
you turn 65, you will be eligible for Medicare, but you may still need a Medicare supplement plan, both of which will require premium payments. You’ll probably also incur a variety of other unreimbursed expenses for doctor visit copays or deductibles, prescription drugs and vision, hearing and dental care.
Additionally, about 70 percent of adults ages 65 and older will need some form of long-term support, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. This may include a paid home health aide (average cost of $77,792 per year), an assisted living residence (average cost of $70,500 per year) or nursing home care (private room average cost of $127,750 per year). These cost estimates are from Genworth 2024 Cost of Care Survey.
Over the course of your retirement, these can add up, so be realistic when budgeting for health care expenses in retirement.
Consider when to take Social Security. You can start receiving monthly Social Security checks at age 62, but your payments will generally be larger if you wait until your “full” retirement age of 66 or 67. (The size of your payments will “max out” at age 70.)
If you believe you have longevity working in your favor, and you can afford to wait, you may well be better off by delaying Social Security as long as possible.
Avoid investing too conservatively. Once you’re retired, you might think you should take as few chances with your investments as possible — after all, you have less time for them to bounce back from a downturn than you did during your working years.
Nonetheless, it’s important to consider keeping a reasonable percentage of growth-oriented investments in your portfolio to help you stay ahead of
inflation. Even at a low rate, inflation can erode your purchasing power over time. Keep your generosity in check. If you have grown children who need financial help, or grandchildren heading to college someday, you’d no doubt like to do what you can to assist them.
However, the hard truth is that they have more time than you to find workable financial solutions, whereas if you deplete your funds through your generosity, you could put yourself in a precarious position. So, be as giving as you can afford — but try not to go beyond that. By preserving your financial independence, you’ll end up benefiting your family as well.
Retirement is ideally an enjoyable time in your life, especially if you feel financially stable. So, take time to check in periodically to keep that stability on track.
Todd Holder
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC
Farewell to Izzy
Carpe Diem Farms bids a heartfelt goodbye to Izzy, a beloved dappled grey Oldenburg whose gentle spirit and joyful presence graced the farm for over a decade.
We know that when we love there will come a time when we must say our final goodbye. It is with a heavy heart that I share news from Carpe Diem Farms. Thursday August 21, our magnificent “Izzy” was laid to rest in our St. Frances Cemetery with the 16 others who have predeceased her.
When I was a girl of fifteen, Disney launched a new movie, The Horse in the Grey Flannel Suit. From that moment on I knew that someday in my life I would have my own grey flannel suited horse! Many, many years passed, and 23 horses have graced my life. Finally, in January of 2013 the 24th horse would be my very own dappled grey six-year-old Oldenburg whose registered name was Isabeau’s Nightwatch. Seventeen two hands tall, a little pigeon toed and full of joyful spunk showed up in my life. She was in West Virginia, at Meredith Manor Equestrian College. The head
riding instructor owned her, trained her in dressage and was selling the six-yearold mare. I scheduled an appointment to meet and ride her on my way home from the annual International Hoof Care Summit in Cincinnati, Ohio, with horse trailer in toe, we left Ohio for West Virginia.
She was prettier in person than her photos. I had a glorious ride on her in the arena, consummated the sale and we were on our way to Carpe Diem. The weather wasn’t our friend as we followed a snowstorm all the way home. Izzy was a wonderful traveler and made the trip non-eventful. I promised her it would be her last trailer ride and that Carpe Diem would be her home forever. All these many years she was a special member of the herd. She wasn’t the bravest, only liked being ridden in the arena but oh what a special, beautiful girl.
The herd is quiet as they process their loss and learn to live as a band of five.
She will always be in our mind’s eye and our hearts.
The pictorial captures her very essence. A special girl, lovingly remembered. by Sue Blair, Carpe Diem Farms
Creep it Real
This Halloween, embrace the spirit of transformation—not just with costumes from comic books and closets, but with a bold ensemble of courage and humanity, channeling real-life heroes and a longing for magical change in a troubled world.
It’s time to ghoul-up and ghostify. Who will be your monster d’jour this Halloween?
Marvel, D.C. Comics, and dad’s closet will provide truckloads of super hero regalia for the kids. Giant store chains will deliver monsters galore – worthy of an extra handful of Sour-Patch at your door. And anyone in movie character garbs, with glistening eyes and coats of silky down, will be treated with anything that resembles melty chocolate, peanut butter, and a double dose of sugar.
This septuagenarian loves dressing up too. It’s never too old to look ridiculous. I like being something I’m not … just for one night.
But this year, I want some magic. Real magic. A radical change. A push-back.
Magic that produces real superheroes who have vision, fairness, honor, scruples. Doesn’t that thought blow a waft of fresh air ‘round your ear and give you a walloping inhale of humanity?
I want to fill my heart with change. But my heroes like the Daniel Boones, Harriet Tubmans, Rachel Carsons, Captain Americas have faded. Those people and characters, bigger than life, were willing to make a difference, no matter what.
Right now, I’m cheering for every David—stone in hand, heart ablaze— who dares to stand against the towering Goliaths and the bullies that shadow our days. This Halloween, I’m wearing black tactical gear with a treat bag filled with pride. I’ll accessorize with Gucci
sandals of course. A wonder-girl has to draw a line.
Consider what kind of magic and power you might summon and wear this Halloween, or any hour in these troubled times. An ensemble of courage, a cloak of change, a mantle of humanity. I don’t care if it’s a suit or a shmatte. Just slide your brave self into it and one-by-one, we shall metamorph this mad mad world. After all, Halloween and the day after are a remembrance of those who’ve passed-on and the Saints we honor.
Cinch up your golden belt, heroes and heroines. It’s time to super-celebrate a revival of good old-fashioned Pluck. by Donna Rhodes / art by Norma Jean Zahner
A New Season at Flat Mountain
Flat Mountain Farm is entering a new chapter—expanding beyond weddings to include curated retreats, chef-driven dinners, and community gatherings—while continuing to host celebrations on its historic grounds.
Located just two miles from the center of Highlands, Flat Mountain Farm has long been a sanctuary for those seeking natural beauty and refined hospitality. Tucked into 28 acres of meadows, woodlands, and water, the farm feels private and expansive without ever being remote. Guests discover restored historic log cabins with hand-hewn timbers, a tranquil pond ringed by rhododendron, and walking trails that wind through wildflower fields and shaded forest. At its heart is a soaring Scandinavian-style barn, its weathered timbers and broad white oak doors opening onto a terrace where mountain air and starlit skies become part of every gathering. The farm began life as a rhododendron nursery before falling into disrepair,
only to be reimagined a few years ago by Margaret and Chris Shutze. Margaret, a designer of luxury hotels, brought a polished eye to interiors—mid-century furniture paired with local craftsmanship and antiques salvaged from the property itself. Chris, a builder and craftsman, restored the cabins and terraces, creating spaces that feel timeless and new. Together they honored the land’s character, crafting a retreat where every detail, from stone patios to communal dining tables hewn from fallen timbers, connects to the property’s past.
This spring marked a new chapter, when Robin and Vanessa Delmer purchased Flat Mountain Farm with their daughter, Koble Delmer, and her husband, Caleb Irby. While Robin and Vanessa remain active co-owners, Koble and Caleb
have stepped in as the operating couple, moving to Highlands full-time to run the farm. Their skills are complementary: Koble, with her design and branding background, brings a creative vision to guest experiences and the farm’s evolving identity; Caleb, a sommelier with two decades in kitchens, vineyards, beverage, and service, guides its food, wine, and service culture. Their aim is to broaden the farm’s role in Highlands, moving beyond weddings and vacation rentals toward retreats, dinners, and community gatherings that reflect both the land’s serenity and the couple’s dedication to hospitality. That vision will come alive next month when Flat Mountain Farm joins Highlands Food & Wine for two evenings that show the property at its
Caleb Irby and Koble Delmer
most dynamic. On Friday, November 14, the barn transforms into the setting for Cinder & Cellar – an intimate wine dinner with Chef Santiago Guzzetti of Ilda in Sylva. Guzzetti, whose cooking reflects his Argentine roots, Italian heritage, and Michelin training in New York, will present four courses, introduced by passed caviar and champagne outdoors and concluding with dessert. Each dish will carry a distinctly French influence, designed to pair seamlessly with selections from Burgundy, Champagne, and other notable French regions.
The evening is hosted by the Boisset Collection—the largest landholders in Burgundy and one of the most influential wine portfolios in the world—led by Regional Sales Director Sara Brewer. For the Delmer family, the event resonates deeply: Caleb once worked a harvest in Burgundy, Koble and Vanessa have lived in France and speak the language, and
Robin is an avid collector of Burgundy wines. As dinner concludes, dessert arrives with a playful flourish and the barn doors roll open to live music under the stars.
The next evening, Saturday, November 15, the tone shifts. Produced in partnership with Highlands Food & Wine, the Barn Ramble will welcome a larger crowd to the property. Where Friday is intimate and choreographed, Saturday is expansive and free-flowing. The barn opens wide, music spills out across the meadow, and guests mingle over passed plates and drinks in an atmosphere designed for conversation and celebration.
Together, these two nights are more than festival programming; they mark the debut of a broader vision for Flat Mountain Farm. In the months and years ahead, Koble and Caleb plan to extend that spirit into yoga and wellness retreats,
family gatherings, community building, and collaborative dinners with chefs and winemakers from near and far. Highlands Food & Wine is the first glimpse of what’s to come: a property that honors its history while growing into a cultural and culinary hub, where the rhythm of the land shapes experiences as enduring as the mountains themselves.
Tickets for Cinder & Cellar are available on Flat Mountain Farm’s website below, where you’ll also find details on their upcoming workshops, including an autumn wreath making workshop with Growing Studio. Barn Ramble tickets can be purchased at highlandsfoodandwine.com.
For more information, visit flatmountainfarm.com, @FlatMountainFarm. by Marlene Osteen photos by Susan Renfro and Mary Gillan Renfro
Enjoy the Ride
October’s vibrant mountain views are worth the drive—especially when motion sickness doesn’t get in the way. These expert-backed tips, from horizon gazing to ginger remedies, help you stay comfortable and fully savor the season’s beauty.
There’s no better time to explore the winding mountain roads than October, when the Plateau explodes in color. But if you’re prone to motion sickness, even the most stunning fall views can turn into an uncomfortable experience.
As a wellness expert, I want you to enjoy every moment. Here are some sciencebacked tips to help prevent motion sickness on your next drive:
Adjust Your Gaze: One of the simplest ways to reduce nausea is to focus your eyes on the horizon or a distant, stable point. Avoid looking down at your phone, map, or book, as this increases the disconnect between what your inner ear senses and what your eyes see — the root cause of motion sickness.
Explore Motion Sickness Glasses: These clever, little-known devices create an artificial horizon using liquid-filled rings in the frames — especially helpful on mountain roads where the natural
horizon is often hidden by curves and trees. This visual reference helps your brain reconcile the movement it senses, dramatically reducing symptoms. They’re inexpensive, noninvasive, and surprisingly effective.
Choose the Best Seat: The front seat of the car offers the smoothest ride, with the least side-to-side motion. If you’re on a bus, aim for a seat near the front or over the wheels.
Keep Blood Sugar Stable: Low blood sugar can make you more sensitive to motion sickness. Eat a balanced meal or snack with protein and complex carbohydrates before heading out. Avoid heavy, greasy foods, which can increase nausea once you’re on the road.
Try Acupressure: Applying gentle pressure to the P6 (Nei Guan) point — located about three finger widths below the wrist on the inner forearm — can help ease nausea. You can apply pressure with your thumb or use
inexpensive acupressure wristbands available at most pharmacies.
Consider Natural Remedies: Some people find relief with ginger (tea, candies, or capsules) or peppermint, both known for their soothing effects on the digestive system.
Motion sickness doesn’t have to ruin your autumn adventures. With the right strategies, you can enjoy every curve, every overlook, and every brilliant leaf this season has to offer.
by Dr. Kristin Lander, DC Highlands Chiropractic & Wellness
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To Glorify and Sanctify
As Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church nears its 75th anniversary, the parish breaks ground on a stunning Baroque-style church—uniting tradition, beauty, and faith in a transformative new chapter.
As Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church in Highlands approaches its 75th anniversary, it’s embarking on a transformative journey – one that honors tradition while embracing the future. The parish has broken ground on a breathtaking new Baroquestyle church, a project years in the making and deeply rooted in both architectural reverence and spiritual renewal.
In July 2022, OLM launched its “Building a Beacon of Catholic Faith” capital campaign, which raised over $9.6 million to date. Now OLM is seeking the remaining funds needed to complete the project’s first phase of construction debt-free. Through pledges and special donations to honor loved ones with memorialized sacred items, OLM is moving optimistically toward its $12.6 million goal.
Designed by McCrery Architects of Washington, DC, the new 9,000-square-
foot church reflects the magnificence of the Baroque period that inspired worship by integrating art and architecture with the spiritual. With its barrel-vaulted ceiling, ornate columns, and multiple marble altars, the structure will evoke the Counter-Reformation’s spirit of renewal. It also will complement well the graceful, artistic beauty that is prevalent throughout the Highlands area.
On July 14, 2024, Diocese of Charlotte Bishop Michael Martin led the groundbreaking ceremony – his first since being ordained bishop six weeks prior. Nearly 250 people gathered for Mass and the blessing. Among them was Mayor Patrick Taylor, who called the new church “an icon of Catholic faith for this community for decades and probably even centuries to come.”
Construction is underway, and the current church will remain in use for Mass until the new one is consecrated. The final
design includes seating for 268 worshipers, six side chapels, custom-crafted pews and paintings, antique Stations of the Cross, and a narthex for fellowship. A landscaped span of grass, trees, and flowering shrubs adjacent to the church will complete the serene setting.
Father Jason Barone, who has shepherded OLM since his arrival in 2019, sees the new church as a phoenix rising from the ashes – a sign of hope and holiness in a fractured age.
“Our commitment is to do this work to glorify God and sanctify souls,” he says, “and to enhance the cultural and spiritual fabric of our community with a sacred space that reflects its faith, hospitality, and beauty.”
To learn more or to contribute, visit olmhighlands.com or call (828) 526-2418. by Berney Kirkland, Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church
Parishioners signing beams
Exterior vision
Interior vision
Dream Trips Made Easy
With a passion for travel and a deep commitment to personalized service, Deborah and Will Stone of Traveling Light Vacations turn dream getaways into unforgettable journeys.
Deborah and Will Stone
When it comes to planning the perfect getaway, the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable experience often lies in the details. That’s where Traveling Light Vacations steps in to help you plan your dream vacation. Owners Deborah and Will Stone specialize in all types of travel, and they excel at bringing the world closer while taking the stress out of planning.
Will and Deborah live with their two children in Oregon and family and travel are their passions. It’s a dream come true that they can earn a living helping others enjoy the excitement of travel while helping them create memories that last a lifetime.
Their connection to the HighlandsCashiers Plateau runs deep as Will grew up in Cashiers and attended Blue Ridge School through the seventh grade and Summit Charter School for eighth grade. He has especially fond memories of
playing music in Tim Womack’s coffee shop from an early age. His early love of music was his springboard into the world of travel as he discovered his passion for adventure when traveling as a musician after college.
Deborah and Will take the time to get to know their clients and plan personal itineraries focusing on their interests, budget, and traveling style. Both say that forming lifelong friendships with their clients is one of the most meaningful aspects of what they do.
Cruises are a cornerstone of their offerings, from luxury ocean liners exploring multiple countries in style to intimate river cruises winding through Europe’s most historic waterways. Whether you’re looking for a tropical Caribbean escape, a bucket-list Mediterranean adventure, or a trip to Antarctica, Deborah and Will handle every detail.
But cruises are only the beginning. They have the experience and connections
to design all kinds of trips, including all-inclusive resort stays, guided tours, adventure travel, destination weddings, honeymoons, and family vacations. If you can dream it, they can get you there.
What truly sets Traveling Light Vacations apart is its commitment to personalized service. With insider knowledge, exclusive deals, and a passion for exploring the world, they make sure every journey is more than just a trip — it’s a memory in the making. Whether by sea, air, or land, they are your key to adventure.
Best of all – their services are free! That means you’ll have an expertly planned trip and extra money in your pocket. That is what we call a win-win.
For more information and to start planning your dream vacation visit travelinglightvacations.com.
by Mary Jane McCall
Summit Roots
Summit Charter School is a tuition-free K–12 public charter school serving North Carolina families with a place-based curriculum, strong family partnerships, and a vibrant, communitysupported campus in the heart of the CashiersHighlands Plateau.
Summit Charter School is a public, tuition-free K–12 school serving families across the CashiersHighlands Plateau and beyond.
Summit was in the first class of charter schools accredited in 1997, just after North Carolina approved charter legislation. Any child with NC state residence may apply for admission, and our student population currently draws from five surrounding counties. This broad reach creates a vibrant school community, reflective of our region’s diversity.
As a public charter school, Summit only receives 75 percent of the state funding per student compared to traditional public schools, and zero government funding for facilities. This means that our thriving 33-acre campus (buildings, athletic fields, green spaces, trails) is made possible through the extraordinary dedication of families, friends, and community supporters who believe in
providing excellent educational opportunities right here on the mountain.
One of Summit’s unique differentiators is our culture in family partnership. Parents and guardians are deeply involved, not just as supporters and
…is made possible through the extraordinary dedication of families, friends, and community supporters…
volunteers, but as daily partners in the school’s mission. Our mission is alive in everything we do: to engage students in learning experiences that stimulate discovery, inspire excellence, and nurture a positive influence in an ever-changing world.
Our curriculum, from Kindergarten through 12th grade, emphasizes placebased education, allowing students to extend learning beyond the traditional
classroom through meaningful hands-on experiences in the outdoors and across the community.
Learning is rooted in both academics and a deep sense of place, and the result is a Summit graduate who is academically prepared, engaged in their community, and strong in character.
For local families, Summit represents a homegrown choice for a high-quality education in the heart of the Plateau. For seasonal residents or visitors, it’s a reminder that our community is not only a destination of natural beauty, but also one of educational excellence and opportunity. by Laura Lamont, Summit Charter School
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Old Edwards Reserve at Lake Keowee
Old Edwards Reserve at Lake Keowee offers a close-knit community removed from the cares of 21st century life. Learn more at ReserveatLakeKeowee.com.
Old Edwards Reserve at Lake Keowee is more than a residential club – it’s a community where families come together to embrace adventure and foster deeper connections. Nestled in Sunset, South Carolina, along the indigo waters of Lake Keowee, this private mountain club offers a way of life rooted in exploration, camaraderie, and breathtaking surroundings.
For over 20 years, The Reserve has served as a sanctuary for those seeking a life enriched by the outdoors and shared experiences. From its lively St. Patrick’s Day celebrations to summertime boat rides on the lake, the community is
steeped in traditions that bring families and neighbors together.
The Reserve’s charm lies in its combination of elevated amenities and a welcoming, authentic spirit. Members enjoy a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, a bustling Marina, the inviting Orchard House, and miles of trails winding through the stunning mountain landscape. Each element is thoughtfully designed to celebrate the property’s natural beauty and foster meaningful connections among its residents.
Following the 2024 acquisition of Old Edwards Hospitality Group, a new vision has united Old Edwards Reserve at Lake
Keowee with another iconic property, Old Edwards Club in Highlands, North Carolina. This partnership marks the beginning of a new era, offering Reserve members exclusive access to expanded golf and luxury amenities at Old Edwards Club and GlenCove by Old Edwards through enhanced membership tiers. This seamless integration enhances the offerings of both communities, creating a broader network of world-class experiences while maintaining the intimate charm of their home communities.
With this new vision, members of The Reserve can now enjoy expanded opportunities for connection, recreation,
and relaxation that enrich their way of life. For Old Edwards, it continues the tradition of European-inspired luxury and community-focused offerings. For The Reserve, it marks an exciting chapter of growth and innovation.
The Reserve is poised to enter this exciting new chapter with the introduction of Laurel Village, its first new neighborhood in more than two decades. This intimate enclave of 24 turnkey cottages will sit above Laurel Pond, encircling a private putting course that serves as a hub for connection and play.
“The cottage designs at Laurel Village were born from a deep desire to create spaces that feel open, airy, and alive with natural light,” says Sam Edgens of
Edgens Herzog Architects. “Their exteriors evoke the timeless charm of mountain landscapes, reflecting the warmth and simplicity of elevated countryside living.”
Meanwhile, golf course and landscape designer Beau Welling Design emphasizes the role of Laurel Village in fostering community: “The putting course provides a perfect venue for memories to be made by residents of all ages. Putting is truly accessible and enjoyable for everyone, and Laurel Village will be an area that fosters deep connections.”
Laurel Village’s location, just a short golf cart ride from The Reserve’s bustling amenities – like The Orchard House, Marina, and Pool – adds to its appeal. The cottages at Laurel Village offer
modern luxury wrapped in the timeless charm that defines The Reserve.
The Reserve’s story is one of legacy, community, and a profound connection to its natural surroundings. As it evolves with thoughtful new developments like Laurel Village and expanded opportunities for exploration, The Reserve remains a place where adventure truly comes naturally.
For families who cherish nature, adventure, and meaningful connections, Old Edwards Reserve at Lake Keowee is not just a place to live – it’s a place to thrive.
To schedule a personalized tour with the Old Edwards Reserve Real Estate Group, call (877) 922-5253 or email sales@ reservekeowee.com
WelcomingTraci Knop
With deep roots in Western North Carolina and over 30 years of clinical experience, Traci T. Knop brings warmth, expertise, and a patientfirst approach to the team at Highlands Dermatology.
Dr. Paul Cabiran and Traci Knop
Highlands Dermatology is proud to welcome Traci T. Knop, MSN, FNP-BC, to its growing team of professionals. Led by Dr. Paul S. Cabiran, M.D., F.A.A.D., the practice is known for its personalized approach to skincare and its deep commitment to community wellness. With Traci’s arrival, Highlands Dermatology strengthens its ties to the region and its tradition of thoughtful, patient-focused service.
Traci joined the practice in July 2025, bringing more than three decades of clinical experience. Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, she offers a personalized and compassionate approach to skincare.
Her nursing career began in West Palm Beach, Florida, in 1991, and she relocated to Franklin in 1997. She spent the
next eight years in Surgical Services at Angel Medical Center, gaining hands-on experience in a fast-paced clinical setting. In 2013, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Western
their own skin.
Traci and her husband, Daniel, live in Franklin and have two adult children. Outside of work, she enjoys baking, spending time outdoors, and sharing adventures with their dogs.
With Traci’s arrival, Highlands Dermatology strengthens its ties to the region and its tradition of thoughtful, patient-focused service.
Carolina University, followed by a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati in 2015, specializing as a Family Nurse Practitioner.
Before joining Highlands Dermatology, Traci practiced in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine across Western North Carolina, earning a reputation for clinical excellence and compassionate care. Her transition into dermatology reflects her continued dedication to helping patients feel confident and healthy in
Located at 5526 Cashiers Road, Highlands Dermatology offers a full range of dermatological services—including medical and cosmetic treatments—delivered with a focus on tailored service and trusted expertise.
For appointments or more information, visit highlandsdermatology.com or call (888) 565-8828.
by Marjorie
Deal
photo by Colleen Kerrigan
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Major Upgrades at HighlandsCashiers Hospital
From its humble beginnings with a Korean War-era X-ray machine to a $5 million upgrade featuring cutting-edge CT and MRI technology, Highlands-Cashiers Hospital continues to evolve—enhancing patient care, streamlining diagnostics, and expanding facilities to better serve the community.
Left to right: Lori Smith , CEO Tom Neal, and Amber Breedlove
When I first arrived in Highlands in August of 1971, our community hospital was equipped with a Korean War vintage X-ray machine whose films needed chemical processing. We eventually had a mobile CT scanner that came once a week, and then our own scanner installed in the basement of what is now the Peggy Crosby Center. Things improved when the new hospital opened in March of 1993.
With the opening of the new hospital, we had up-to-date portable and stationary X-ray machines. The CT scanner was up to date as well—a real X-ray department! Over time, computed radiology (CR Technology) was installed along with PACS. We then purchased an MRI machine. There was no room in the hospital, so it was installed in the Jane Woodruff Clinic, across the parking lot. This created challenges, with sick patients occasionally moved by ambulance from one building to another. This
process tied up EMS. Other challenges included needing a medical doctor onsite for emergencies when injecting contrast for MRI studies.
Now, after two years of planning and a five-million-dollar capital investment, the Highlands-Cashiers Hospital Imaging Department is about to see a major upgrade. The CT suite has been enlarged and features state-of-the-art equipment. The new CT scanner, a 128-slice machine, reduces exam time and offers better image quality. It also contains metal reduction software that creates images with less distortion from metal implants like hip prostheses.
Similarly, the new MRI has much better resolution and offers the opportunity for future upgrades if needed. This wide bore MRI can finish a scan with better quality in less time for most procedures. With the unit now located in the hospital, patients no longer need ambulance transport to another building, allowing
staff to care for more patients throughout the day.
To make room for these improvements, the rehab gym was moved to a larger, more open space, where some of the hospital’s administrative offices had previously been housed. In addition, the hospital’s laboratory was enlarged and two rooms for phlebotomy were added.
Tom Neal, Highlands-Cashiers CEO/ CNO, and Lori Smith, Regional Manager-Imaging, expect the total project to be finished by the end of September, enhancing our ability to provide the best care to our community for years to come.
For more information on HighlandsCashiers Hospital and the services we offer, visit missionhealth.org/highlands or call (828) 526-1200. by Dr. John Baumrucker
Remembering Mimi
Audrey “Mimi” Breedlove, cherished for her warmth, humor, and lifelong service, will be honored with a tribute garden November 6 near the Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library.
Light, love, compassion, avid gardener, friend, great smile, sense of humor, welcoming, loved everyone, served others, loved her church, loving mother and grandmother – these words and descriptions come up over and over again when you talk to anyone about Audrey “Mimi” Breedlove, a beloved member of the Cashiers-Glenville community who passed away this summer just shy of her 102nd birthday.
She is fittingly being remembered with a tribute garden near the Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library/Post Office area in Cashiers, which will be dedicated on November 6 at 11:00 A.M.
Born in 1923 to Laura and Nathan Norris, Audrey grew up on a farm in the Mill Creek area. She graduated from Glenville School in May 1942.
Soon thereafter, she married her high school sweetheart, Cameron Breedlove. A match made in heaven, they spent their lives on Cedar Creek, except for the years of World War II. After the war, they returned to Glenville, built their home, had their daughter, Marlene (Fowler), and established deep roots and a lasting legacy.
Marlene remembers that her parents loved people, never met a stranger, and had hearts for service. They were members of Hamburg Baptist Church, where Cameron served as a deacon and Audrey taught Sunday School, with both spending many additional hours helping at the church or maintaining the cemetery. He was a charter member of the Glenville-Cashiers Rescue Squad, and she was a charter member of the Rescue Auxiliary.
It was not unusual for Cameron to invite people over for a meal, knowing that Audrey would always happily set an extra place. She knew everyone, and her hospitality and close friendships earned her the nickname, The Mayor.
She attended cosmetology school in Asheville in 1957. After graduation, she worked for a short time in Highlands and soon opened Audrey’s Beauty Parlor, next to Tommy’s Restaurant in Cashiers, which she operated until retirement.
Cameron passed away in 1989, and Audrey continued to live in their home for over 30 years, keeping the home repaired, the lawn cared for, and tending her flower and vegetable gardens. Her dahlias were legendary. She continued to work in her church and community, even traveling to New Orleans
after Hurricane Katrina to help the Red Cross with disaster relief.
It was during this time that Audrey and her neighbors formed what they lovingly called the “Porch Sitters’ Club”. Her neighbors loved to stop by and enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal, conversation, and Audrey’s pearls of wisdom and sense of humor.
Conversation often turned to gardening, and Dr. David Fowler remembers her telling him with a twinkle in her eye, “You may be a doctor, but I am the doctor of dirt.”
Debbie Sheaf considers herself blessed to have had two mothers-her birth mother and Mimi, her kindred spirit mother.
Joining Dr. Fowler and Ms. Sheaf, fellow porch sitters
Heather Fowler, Larry and Pam Benson, John and Mary Ann Heussner, and Jim and Patricia Webb are spearheading the tribute garden, which will include a Japanese maple, Audrey’s favorite.
Join them on November 6 for the dedication and visit the memorial often to reflect on the importance of good neighbors and a heart of love, and remember Mimi.
by Mary Jane McCall
Wade Hampton
Offered for $7,850,000
6 BR / 7.5 BA / 1.20 ACRES / MLS 1000724
• Golf front home on 10th hole of award-winning Fazio course
• Large lot has mountain view, pond and stone walled gardens
• Great room has new skylights and “dueling” stone fi replaces
• Newly updated chef’s kitchen has enormous butler’s pantry
• Primary suite has high ceilings,stone fi replace and luxurious bath
• Screened Carolina room near kitchen has grill and fi replace
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Whitewater Ridge
Offered for $2,795,000 (JUST REDUCED)
4 BR / 3.5 BA / 11.36 ACRES / MLS 1000882
• 11 acre estate in gated community borders USFS
• Enormous year round long range mountain views
• Custom, impeccably maintained home, brilliant floor plan
Chattooga Club Offered for $2,750,000
5 BR / 5 BA / 3.16 ACRES / MLS 1001613
• Clean, modern, renovated home with loads of daylight
• Beautiful views of Rock and Chimneytop Mountains
• Stylishly furnished and move-in ready
Big Sheepcliff
Offered for $1,500,000 (UNDER CONTRACT)
2 BR / 2.5 BA / 2.16 ACRES / MLS 1001614
• One level living on a gently rolling lot
• Magnifi cent “town” and mountain views
• Adjoins 3+/- acre common meadow area
Admiral’s Point Offered for $995,000
5 BR / 5 BA / 1.20 ACRES / MLS 1000980
• Excellent investment property near the lake
• Main house and separate guest house
• Updated with a bright, clean flavor
Highway 107S Acreage
Offered for $1,800,000
21.41 ACRES / MLS 1001710
• Favorable location off 107 South
• Acreage suitable for small development or estate
• Ponds, dock, pavilion and roads in place
Avon Road Offered for $1,595,000
37.07 ACRES / MLS 1001637
• Unrestricted land close to town of Cashiers
• Gated driveway, Well installed, power to site
• Adjoins Cedar Ridge Estates and conservation easement
Lonesome Valley
Offered for $1,500,000 (JUST REDUCED)
1.71 ACRES / MLS 1000979
• Beautiful Sapphire and Cow Rock Mountain views
• Approved plans for 4BR home designed by Edgens/Herzog
• Amenities include trails, ponds, Canyon Kitchen and more
High Hampton
Uplands LOT 112 Offered for $1,075,000
1.14 ACRES / MLS 1001633
• Mountain flat” lot loaded with ferns
• On the amenity side of the neighborhood
• Near the hiking trail to Rock Mountain
WADE HAMPTON D17
Offered for $375,000
ADMIRAL’S POINT
Offered for $129,000
SAPPHIRE ACREAGE
Offered for $500,000 66.75 ACRES / MLS 1000802
WADE HAMPTON S10
Offered for $165,000 1.56 ACRES / MLS 106510
BEARWALLOW SPRINGS
Offered for $90,000 4.44 ACRES / MLS 102749
Beth Townsend
A TOP 1% AGENT ON THE PLATEAU OVER THE PAST 20 YEARS!*
#15 Agent In North Carolina (2025 RealTrends Verified) + Land Planner & Project Manager for William McKee’s Wade Hampton Golf Club, and others + Cashiers roots since 1970 + Landscape Architecture degree, University of Florida + Broker & Co-Founder of The McKee Group
“When selling a challenging property, you want Beth on your team. She is determined, creative and perseveres to meet your goals. From emails and texts on the weekend to going above and beyond her ‘broker duties,’ you know instantly that you have an essential advocateonyourside.” – SEAN L
*According to data from the Highlands-Cashiers MLS, 2004-2024
Stillmont
for $2,299,999
3 BR / 6.5 BA / 4.55 ACRES / MLS 1000887
• Traditional mountain home with beautiful year-round views of Whiteside Mountain
• Located on over four acres in Stillmont neighborhood on the Highlands-Cashiers corridor, less than three miles from the Crossroads
• Spacious living room, separate dining room, large kitchen, cozy den, expansive deck and porch are perfect for large families and for entertaining
• All bedrooms on main level feature en suite baths
• Separate guest house with living room, kitchen, and bonus rooms as well as additional kitchen, living areas and bonus rooms on lower level may be used as short term or long-term rentals
Timber Ridge
Offered for $1,700,000 (UNDER CONTRACT)
3 BR / 3 BA / 5.00 ACRES / MLS 105777
• Classic ranch style home on a level lot with garden space and pavilion
• Enjoy breathtaking mountain views of Chimneytop and Rock Mountain
• Ample privacy in gated Cashiers community
Whiteside Forest
Offered for $899,000
3 BR / 2 BA / 1.68 ACRES / MLS 1000588
• Very private 1.68 acres in Whiteside Forest
• Beautiful level lot — a fi sherman’s dream
• Ample frontage on Fowler Creek
Lakeview Heights
Offered for 999,000 (JUST REDUCED)
3 BR / 3.5 BA / 0.59 ACRES / MLS 1001102
• Brand new construction with custom fi nishes
• Views of Lake Glenville and easy access to Signal Ridge Marina
• Spacious back deck with wood burning fi replace
Wildwood Mountain
Offered for $665,000 (JUST REDUCED)
2 BR / 2 BA / 0.82 ACRES / MLS 1000470
• One level living space with updated kitchen and bathrooms
• Conveniently located between Cashiers and Highlands
• Level fenced in backyard
Offered for $899,000
4 BR / 5 BA / 2 HBA / 2.15 ACRES / MLS 1001697
• Rare opportunity to own 2 homes on a private pond
• Multi-family retreat or investment property
• Large home has 2 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 2 half baths, multiple decks
• Small home has 2 bedrooms, 3 baths, and a loft
Chinquapin, Lot 70
Offered for $197,000
2.92 ACRES / MLS 1001453
• 2,000 acre high-end development nestled in the heart of nature
• Prime lot, offering wonderful view of the nearby mountains and easy access to trails
Whisper Lake
Offered for $794,000
3 BR / 2.5 BA / 0.82 ACRES / MLS 1000989
• All the conveniences on one level
• Private setting with a beautiful ridge line view
The sold-out Brookings Bash raised $200,000 for Hurricane Helene survivors, turning a local music dream into a powerful tradition of community and giving.
On Saturday, August 30, our peaceful Cashiers came alive as nearly 800 people packed Brookings Anglers and The Blue Line Bar for the inaugural Brookings Bash—a sold-out benefit concert supporting Hurricane Helene survivors through Transylvania County’s Habitat for Humanity.
The idea began with a simple vision: build community through music. “When
my business partner Stephen Zoukis and I built the new store, we envisioned adding an entertainment element to the fly fishing business,” said Matt Canter, co-owner of Brookings. “The Blue Line Bar was meant to be a place where outdoors-loving folks could hang out, have a drink, and meet others.”
Weekend live music quickly became a tradition. Among the regulars were Chris and Jennifer Douglass, Billy Catlin, and
Patrick Hurley—friends who dreamed up something bigger: an outdoor concert with a bluegrass twist that could raise money for a meaningful cause. They didn’t just dream it—they funded it. Backed by their businesses—Proper Real Estate Advisors, Crossroads Property Management, and Widespread Logistics—they secured a powerhouse lineup: Jupiter Coyote, Balsam Range, and Canon Tyler. Essential Power joined
in, donating services to help bring the event to life.
“This spring, we decided all proceeds would benefit Hurricane Helene survivors,” said Canter. “Transylvania County was hit harder than Jackson County—neighbors helping neighbors.”
The timing couldn’t have been more urgent. “Months after Hurricane Helene, many of our neighbors are still living with unsafe, storm-damaged homes. The needs are urgent—from roof and flooring repairs to replacing homes, home elevations, electrical and plumbing repairs, and
safe temporary and long-term housing. Habitat’s remaining cost for this work is expected to eclipse $3M. Continued support ensures we can stabilize families now and help them rebuild for the long term,” said Angie Hunter, Executive Director of Transylvania County’s Habitat for Humanity.
Despite limited event experience, the team pulled off a seamless celebration of music, community, and generosity. “You should see the group text chain,” Canter laughed. “It’s pretty impressive.”
The result? $200,000 raised—funds
already at work repairing homes, relocating families, and jump-starting new Habitat builds.
“I got one complaint,” Canter joked. “Someone said the music was too loud from a mile away. I told him—it’s only going to be bigger and louder next year.”
Brookings Bash is now more than a concert—it’s a tradition in the making.
by Marjorie Deal
A Home For Clyde
As part of its fourfold mission, the CashiersHighlands Humane Society highlights adoption during National Adopt-a-ShelterDog Month, sharing the story of Clyde—a gentle, loving dog still waiting for his perfect match.
In addition to multiple community outreach programs, the core mission of the Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society has four parts, with each component equally as important as the others: (1) Rescue; (2) Compassionate Care; (3) Spay/Neuter and; (4) Adoption. In honor of October as National Adopt-aShelter-Dog Month, this column focuses on the fourth part of that mission.
Humane World for Animals, formerly known as the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International, classifies cats and dogs as “companion animals.” Felines and canines are different from farm livestock, wild animals and exotic species. Cats and dogs have been bred for thousands of years for companionship.
And what is companionship? Plain and simple – a loving, forever home with a responsible, compassionate human. A non-profit no-kill shelter like CHHS does heroic work on behalf of abandoned
and neglected animals in our community through the initial rescue, ongoing compassionate care, and spay/neuter of each animal to reduce future unwanted pet overpopulation.
But we believe our work is not done until the new adopting family has been found. And so our work on behalf of a sweet dog named Clyde is not finished.
This handsome six-year-old is one of our longest-term resident canines, and we honestly don’t have a clue why. Clyde loves everyone he meets and he’s an absolute cuddle bug. Clyde loves going on walks, as well as rides in the car. He is extremely gentle with children and he was a star attraction during this summer’s Critter Camp. Clyde also recently made an appearance at the Pups & Pints fundraiser at the Highlands Smokehouse.
For 38 years, CHHS has never given up on the shelter pets entrusted to our care, and we will never give up on Clyde or the more than 100 other companion
animals who have currently found safe refuge at our no-kill shelter. Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit animal shelter located at 200 Gable Drive in Sapphire, one-and-a-half miles east of the Cashiers Ingles in between Cedar Creek Club and Lonesome Valley on Highway 64. Visit us online at www.chhumanesociety.org or call (828)743-5752 for more information. Tax-deductible donations to support our lifesaving work can be mailed to: CHHS, P.O. Box 638, Cashiers, NC 28717.
by David Stroud, Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society
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Free Programs at TL&LC
As the 2025–26 school year begins, The Literacy and Learning Center invites families to enroll in its free, high-quality educational programs— from Pre-K to after-school tutoring—designed to support learners of all ages across Macon County.
While the 2025-26 school year is underway, The Literacy and Learning Center is excited to announce that its comprehensive, free educational programs are still open for new student enrollment.
As a cornerstone of the Macon County community, TL&LC remains dedicated to providing high-quality learning opportunities for individuals of all ages.
The Center’s youngest students begin with the Pre-K program, which runs Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. to noon. This program provides a nurturing and engaging environment where children learn through meaningful play, building a solid foundation for lifelong success within a supportive community.
For older students, TL&LC offers its renowned After-School program. Students in grades K-3 receive homework assistance and participate in educational activities Monday through Friday.
This program is enhanced by valuable partnerships with local nonprofits, including The Bascom, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, Highlands Biological
… dedicated to providing high-quality learning opportunities for individuals of all ages.
Foundation, Highlands-Cashiers Hospital, Hudson Library, and the Highlands Fire Department. A concurrent program for students in grades 4-8 also meets Monday through Friday, providing crucial support with homework, research, and curriculum comprehension.
The Center’s commitment to academic achievement extends to personalized support through individual tutoring. This one-on-one assistance is available to students of any age and in any subject, ensuring every learner receives the focused attention necessary to reach
their full potential.
TL&LC looks forward to another year of fostering academic growth and remains a vital resource for the community. Registration is still open for all programs.
To register for After-School, visit theliteracyandlearningcenter.org/ youth. visit theliteracyandlearningcenter.org/pre-k To register for Pre-K.
For questions or additional information, please get in touch with Caroline Cox, Programs Manager, at ccox@ theliteracyandlearningcenter.org or call (828) 526-0863.
by Anna Norton, The Literacy & Learning Center
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Clubs United for Kids
This summer, six Plateauarea clubs partnered with the Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau to create unforgettable experiences for local youth and honor educators, exemplifying the spirit of “Clubs helping the Club.”
The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau extends our heartfelt gratitude to the Chattooga Club, The Club at High Hampton, The Country Club of Sapphire Valley, Wade Hampton Golf Club, Highlands Country Club, and Mountain Top Golf & Lake Club.
This summer, each of these clubs created experiences that many local children might never have had, truly embodying the theme “Clubs helping the Club.”
The season began on June 17, when the Chattooga Club welcomed 6th grade BGCP summer campers for an unforgettable day of outdoor adventure and fun. The children spent the morning swimming in the club’s pool, followed by a hike through the scenic trails, taking in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. They also tried their hands at pickleball, enjoying friendly competition with both Chattooga staff and volunteers. The day was capped off with a delicious lunch.
Anita Ivanova, a High Hampton staff
member from Bulgaria, visited the Abell Teen Club to share a special piece of her heritage – a traditional family recipe of chicken and rice. She guided the teens as they chopped, stirred, and cooked together. When the meal was ready, they gathered around the kitchen island, sharing not just food, but laughter, stories, and a sense of family.
On August 6, the Country Club of Sapphire Valley was scheduled to partner with the WNC Chapter of First Tee to introduce BGCP campers to the game of golf. First Tee uses the sport as a way to help kids discover their strengths and build confidence, both on and off the course. While weather forced the event to be rescheduled for the school year, CCSV still collected over 150 golf balls, which will be donated to the First Tee program.
As summer drew to a close and the new school year approached, Mountain Top welcomed 60 campers in grades 1st through 4th for a day filled with fun
and adventure.
Two buses carried the excited children to the Mountain Top Activity Center, where they explored the playground – including an exhilarating zipline – and enjoyed golf-themed games on the croquet court. As the day ended, Mountain Top members surprised each child with a backpack brimming with school supplies, from binders and paper to pencils, lunch boxes, and colorful markers, sending them home not just prepared for school but feeling valued, supported, and celebrated by their community.
The support extended beyond the campers.
Wade Hampton Golf Club, in partnership with BGCP, hosted a teacher appreciation breakfast for the dedicated staff of Blue Ridge School and Early College and Summit Charter School. Similarly, Highlands Country Club honored Highlands School teachers with an elegant breakfast to celebrate their role in shaping young lives.
We are deeply grateful to all of the clubs that supported BGCP this summer. It is truly inspiring to see our Plateau community come together to lift up children and honor the educators who shape their lives. Thanks to their generosity, our campers experienced a summer filled with joy, discovery, and lasting memories. BGCP remains committed to providing programs and opportunities that help youth reach their full potential, and this summer’s partnerships serve as a powerful reminder
of what a caring, united community can accomplish for its children.
The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau serves youth from kindergarten through 12th grade in the Cashiers and Highlands communities. BGCP is nationally recognized by Boys & Girls Clubs of America as one of the top 20 Clubs out of 5,200 in the country. The Club offers a wide range of programs focusing on academic success, character development, and healthy lifestyles. BGCP is committed to ensuring that all children, especially those who need it most, have access to a safe and supportive environment after school and during the summer months.
For more information, please contact me, Kayla Deaton at (828) 743-2775, or via email at kayla@bgcplateau.org. Visit our website at bgcplateau.org.
by Kayla Deaton,
Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau
Big Dreams,Little Feet
Fundraising at Cashiers Valley Preschool helps support teachers, enrich classrooms, and build a new playground—creating a joyful, nurturing space where children thrive.
At Cashiers Valley Preschool, every day begins with the sounds of children laughing, learning, and discovering the world around them. It is a place where curiosity is nurtured, friendships are formed, and the foundations for lifelong learning are built. What families may not always see, however, is just how much it takes behind the scenes to keep our preschool thriving. Tuition helps, but it does not cover the full cost of creating the safe, engaging, and nurturing environment our children deserve. That is why fundraising is such an essential part of our story.
The dollars raised by our community go directly into strengthening the heart of our school. One of the most important ways is by supporting our teachers. They are the steady hands and warm smiles that shape every child’s day. Fair salaries and thoughtful bonuses help us retain the talented educators who provide consistency and care. When teachers
feel valued, they are free to give their best to the children – guiding them with patience, creativity, and love.
But the impact of fundraising reaches far beyond teacher support. It touches every corner of the preschool and directly shapes the experiences of our students. These dollars bring art supplies into little hands eager to create, fill shelves with books that spark imagination, and supply classrooms with learning tools that turn play into discovery. They allow us to bring in special enrichment programs –from music to nature exploration – that broaden what children experience during their preschool years.
Looking ahead, one of the most exciting ways fundraising will impact our children is through a much-needed playground revamp. Outdoor play is not just a break from the classroom; it is central to how young children learn. The playground is where they test their confidence, build friendships, and
strengthen both body and mind. With new equipment, safe surfaces, and spaces designed to encourage exploration and creativity, we can give our students an outdoor environment that inspires as much joy and growth as our classrooms do.
Now is the time to act. Join us in making this vision a reality – help us support our teachers, enrich our classrooms, and build the new playground our children deserve. Together, we can create a place where every child takes their first steps into learning with confidence, joy, and wonder. Your gift today makes all the difference.
Visit cashiersvalleypreschool.com to make a donation, checks payable to Cashiers Valley Preschool can be mailed to PO Box 3081 Cashiers NC 28717.
by Danielle Hernandez, Big Brothers
Big Sisters
The Power of Being Seen
Big Brothers Big Sisters helps middle schoolers feel seen and supported through mentoring that builds confidence, connection, and hope for the future.
Middle school can be one of the hardest chapters in a young person’s life.
Too old for childhood, not quite ready for the independence of high school, so many students find themselves caught in the middle – searching for belonging, wrestling with self-doubt, and wondering if anyone really sees them.
At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina, we know this stage matters. It’s why we’ve built Middle School Group Mentoring programs and why we continue to grow our community-based matches. Both create one powerful thing that changes everything: connection.
In our groups, students sit in circles where they are invited to speak honestly and be heard. They laugh, they share struggles, they talk about big dreams. For some, it’s the first time an adult has leaned in and said, “Tell me what you think. Tell me what you hope for.” And that small shift – being noticed – can
change the way a child carries themselves into the world.
That’s exactly what happened with Sarah, a quiet sixth grader who shuffled into her first session with her eyes on the floor. She barely spoke above a whisper. She didn’t believe she had anything worth saying.
But week by week, something changed. The mentors kept showing up. They asked questions. They celebrated her small contributions. Slowly, her voice grew steadier. By spring, Sarah was the one raising her hand first, sharing her dream of becoming a teacher. That spark of confidence carried over into her one-to-one match with her Big Sister, who now takes her to the library, helps with homework, and reminds her again and again: “You matter. You’re capable. I believe in you.”
This is what mentoring looks like. It’s not flashy. It doesn’t make headlines. But it’s real, and it’s powerful.
And this is where you come in. You don’t have to have all the answers. You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be willing. Willing to listen, willing to laugh, willing to share even the smallest of moments.
You are the one who shows them that they matter, that their voice is worth hearing, and that their future can be brighter than they imagined.
Join us. Become a Big. Support our programs. Help us reach the children who are still waiting. Together, we can give them what every child deserves: the chance to feel seen, heard, and full of possibility.
Say yes today. Be the reason a child believes in tomorrow. Find out more at bbbswnc.org/tag/jackson-county.
by Danielle Hernandez, Big Brothers Big Sisters
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