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Summer Soiree
Written By: Luke Osteen | Issue: July - 2022
The Highlands Biological Foundation celebrates a tradition of generosity with A Ravenel Soirée, hosted by Diane and Ray McPhail from 6:00 P.M. until dark, Monday, July 18. Tickets are $250 per guest –for more information and to purchase a ticket, call (828) 526-2221
Dazzling social affairs are a long-standing tradition for summers spent in Highlands, and the Highlands Biological Foundation’s summer soirée is no exception.Join HBF for its biggest annual fundraiser on Monday, July 18, in support of its mission of stimulating and promoting biological research and education in the Southern Appalachians.HBF’s summer soiréewill be held at the enchanting, historic Ravenel Property co-owned by Diane and Ray McPhail and Karen and Will Stolz. Parking is limited, so a shuttle service will be provided.The Ravenel Property, formerly called Wolf Ridge, is filled with magic and myth going all the way back to Native American roots. What was once the bears’ showground became The Fodderstacks, named for stores of cattle food (hay, etc.) which they resembled.In 1913 the Ravenel family built a summer house at the site. The Ravenels played a huge role in Highlands history. You may know them for donating Sunset Rock to the town in 1914, a memorial gift from the children of Captain and Margaretta Ravenel.When asked how the Ravenel dwelling harmonized with the dramatic surroundings, Diane shared, “It had the distinction of being built in a Northeast Craftsman style, not commonly seen here. In the development of the Ravenel Community, Ray and Will observed strict adherence to Craftsman style architecture.”The result: a perfect environmental and aesthetic marriage.
by Luke Osteen
