Donna Rhodes

Our Cover Artist, Matt Belfi, layers color, texture, and imagination into pure Appalachian magic.

The annual Outhouse Races bring outrageous competition and mountain‑town spirit to Sapphire Valley this February.

Rudolph and Santa’s Reindeer often get the most animal attention at holiday celebrations. But plenty of other God’s creatures deserve recognition at Christmastime.

After Highlands’ Christmas Parade on December 6, enjoy the Church of the Incarnation’s $15 pulled‑pork box lunch, with proceeds benefiting local charities.

CLE invites all ages to celebrate the season with festive decoupage on December 3 and a joyful cookie exchange on December 17.

Rock the Plateau brings acclaimed singer-songwriters to Highlands, proving that even a small town can make a mighty sound.

Shannon B. Jones, our December’s Cover Artist, captures the spirit of the mountains through fluid, expressive watercolor landscapes and layered botanical textures.

Let gratitude be the pillow upon which you kneel to say nightly prayer. Maya Angelou

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