Articles

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The Bascom Opens Photography Resident Exhibition April 18 with Free Artist Talk

Issue: Whats News by: Bianca Mitchell, Director of Marketing, The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts

The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts will open a new exhibition by Photography Resident Dean Kessmann on Saturday, April 18, 2026, in the Joel Gallery, with a free public artist talk at 3:00 p.m. Kessmann is a Professor of Photography at The George Washington University’s Corcoran School of the Arts and Design who spent his spring 2026 sabbatical in residence at The Bascom, his first formal artist residency in nearly two decades.

Pictured here are Town Manager Josh Ward, Mayor Pay Taylor, and Chamber Executive Director Johanna Fein.

Highlands Goes Red, White & Blue

Issue: Whats News by: Johanna Fein, Highlands Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Highlands, NC

As Highlands prepares to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary, the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC has partnered with the Town of Highlands to add patriotic touches throughout the community.

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Mentors Make Communities Strong

Issue: April 2026 by: Danielle Hernandez, Big Brothers Big Sisters of WNC

Big Brothers Big Sisters highlights how consistent mentorship helps young people feel supported, confident, and connected.

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Full‑Circle Leadership

Issue: April 2026 by: Anna Norton, The Literacy and Learning Center

Former ESL student Faviola Olvera now leads TL&LC’s Citizenship Class, using her own naturalization journey to empower new citizens and strengthen the community she loves.

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Wildlife Illness Alert

Issue: April 2026 by: Luke Osteen

A rise in distemper among local raccoons and foxes has prompted reminders to avoid handling wildlife and keep pets vaccinated and safely away from sick animals.

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The Quintessential Mountain Home

Issue: April 2026 by: Donna Rhodes

This Sapphire estate at The Divide pairs sweeping Panthertown‑area trail access with a timeless, impeccably kept mountain home – offering privacy, views, and beautifully crafted living spaces across its main house, guesthouse, and grounds.

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Restoring a Landmark

Issue: April 2026 by: Luke Osteen

Hudson Library – founded 142 years ago and long central to Highlands life – is embarking on a major renovation to preserve its legacy and create a more welcoming, modern space for generations to come.

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A Home of Rare Craftsmanship

Issue: April 2026 by: Marlene Osteen

Karen Hunt and Mike Lewine list their remarkable Flat Mountain Estates residence—a meticulously crafted Tretiakov-built home with custom details, sweeping views, and refined mountain living – now offered through Highlands Sotheby’s International Realty.

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The People Who Built Highlands

Issue: April 2026 by: Cora Bauman, Highlands Historical Society

Highlands’ hospitality industry grew not just from its scenic setting but from the year‑round residents whose hard work, resilience, and community spirit shaped the town into the thriving mountain destination it is today.

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