Waking the Mountain

Issue: 2020/06 - June | Photograph By: Susan Renfro

If this were any June like the Junes of, say, the last 100 years, Highlands would be deep in a busy season of returning second- (and third-) homeowners, and a steady stream of visitors looking to escape the stresses of the outside world.

But in this norm-shattering year of coronavirus and the near-constant whine of low-level anxiety, the Highlands Chamber of Commerce has had to formulate a new guidebook to rekindle the excitement and energy of seasons past. 

At the moment, the town (and the state) are in Phase One of North Carolina’s Reopening Plan.

That means that the public can once again leave home for commercial activity, and more businesses are allowed to open (with social-distancing measures in place). People are still encouraged to use face coverings when out among others.

Shopkeepers and their staff are encouraged to wear masks or branded bandanas, and should maintain six feet of space between themselves and customers. 

Customers are also encouraged to wear masks and the number of customers within a shop at one time will be limited. In a town where business has always had a deeply personal touch, some shops will be embracing facetime or skype to allow their clients to shop from home. Some will even be offering personal shoppers to make the shopping experience even easier. 

For restaurants, look for the continuation of curbside, takeout and delivery service.

As we move into Phase Two, inside and dining will be allowed at 50 percent occupancy, with social distancing, and sanitiztion guidelines.

Accommodations will also be observing their own safety guidelines, even at the front desk. The check-in station will be shielded by plexiglass, and hand sanitizer use will be expected by both the guest and the front desk clerk. Staff temperatures will be taken with no-touch thermometers. Housekeepers will be decked out in single-use gloves and masks or face-shields. All touch surfaces, including upholstery, will be sanitized prior to each guest’s arrival.

  And since this is Highlands, a town that’s relied upon a strong sense of community  to get through any crises, there are clear steps that can be taken by residents to help their neighbors weather this coronavirus era. 

There are simple steps you can take, whether you’re a year-rounder, a seasonal resident, or a visitor for just a few hours, It’s really the same thing that’s kept Highlands and Cashiers going for over 100 years – Being generous beyond the norm.

According to Chamber  Executive Director Kaye fMcHan, that means making donations to local nonprofits that you’d not normally make, or increase the amount that you’d normally offer, and make them now. 

Go to a store and buy two of something. Start your Christmas Shopping. Buy a gift certificate for yourself and someone you love. 

Pay extra for your haircuts and other personal services. Be lavish in your tipping. 

Eat out (or take-out) more often than usual.

Maybe offer to buy a $50 dessert, just for the heck of it, a uniquely Plateau gesture.

Be creative, be generous, be grateful.