News

There will not be any fireworks in Highlands on Independence Day, but there will be a full slate of socially-distanced community events.

Fourth of July celebration evolves

Dan Brown

Thursday, July 2, 2020

The social distancing restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 coronavirus have forced the cancellation of many traditional Fourth of July events.

The Town of Highlands started a new budget year on Wednesday.

Town approves scaled back budget

Ryan Hanchett

Thursday, July 2, 2020

During the Highlands Board of Commissioners’ June meeting, the board approved an operating budget of $20,159,080 for the 2020-21 fiscal year. The budget comes with no ad valorem property tax increase over year prior.

The Farm at Old Edwards may soon be inside town limits following the approval of an annexation proposal by the Highlands planning board.

Old Edwards asks for annexation at The Farm

Ryan Hanchett

Thursday, July 2, 2020

The Highlands planning board approved a motion that brings The Farm at Old Edwards one step closer to being voluntarily annexed during the board’s June meeting.

Walking with purpose

News Staff

Thursday, July 2, 2020

For Roger Gates, the decision to cross the country with a massive wooden cross was an easy one – in fact, in a way, he said the decision was made for him. “I quit asking the lord ‘Why me? Why not somebody else?

Highlands Police Chief Andrea Holland is presented with her new badge by town manager Josh Ward following a swearing-in ceremony on Thursday.

Former detective Holland chosen to take over as Highlands Police Chief

Ryan Hanchett

Thursday, June 25, 2020

Andrea Holland stood at the front of the Highlands Community Building and put her hand on the Bible. With her family, friends, fellow law enforcement officers and judicial officials in attendance, Holland recited the oath of office for her new role as Highlands Police Chief on Thursday.

Several events, including the Mountaintop Arts and Crafts Show, got the go-ahead to use Kelsey-Hutchinson Park this fall.

Fall events receive town approval

Ryan Hanchett

Thursday, June 25, 2020

While the number of community events cancelled due to the ongoing COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic continues to grow, there is some hope on the horizon that a handful of fall events will be able to take place.

COVID-19 recoveries have begun to outpace new cases in Macon County.

COVID-19 recoveries begin to outpace new cases

Ryan Hanchett

Thursday, June 25, 2020

While the number of total COVID-19 coronavirus cases continues to rise in Macon County, there was some good news on Tuesday. According to information provided by the Macon County Public Health department, the number of active cases in the county decreased from the day prior.

Plant for the Plateau is hoping to supply local food banks with fresh produce.

Plant for the Plateau hopes to fill a need

Dan Brown

Thursday, June 25, 2020

During times of social distancing and sheltering in place due to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, members of the community are coming together to help put food on the tables of those in need.

Cawthorn defeats Bennett in second GOP primary

Ryan Hanchett

Thursday, June 25, 2020

Macon County Republican Party voters turned out in high numbers for the second primary for U.S. House of Representatives district NC 11 on Tuesday. When the final vote count rolled in, Madison Cawthorn defeated Linda Bennett by a total of 30,444 to 15,806.

Michael Honig, of Honig Vineyard and Winery, goes over the wine-making process with a guest during a luncheon at 4118 Kitchen and Bar on Friday afternoon.

Acclaimed vintner Honig pays visit to Highlands

Ryan Hanchett

Thursday, June 25, 2020

A group of 10 people gathered around a large table at 4118 Kitchen and Bar on Friday afternoon to share a special lunch. The guest of honor retold the story of his rise from struggling college student to successful wine maker and president of the Napa Vintners Association.