HIGHLANDS, N.C., Sept.

HIGHLANDS, N.C., Jan. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Old Edwards Inn and Spa in Highlands, N.C.-- a European-style resort on the southwestern plateau of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains--was ranked #2 Best Hotel for Romance in the U.S. and #4 Best Relaxation and Spa hotel in the U.S.

Snowstorms and gales caused havoc in the Highlands yesterday. Disruption was widespread as blizzards led to hazardous driving conditions and dozens of school closures. And the Met Office warned that roads were likely to become icy last night as temperatures fell as low as -8C.

By John Ross DUALLING the A9 could boost the Highlands economy by almost GBP 1 billion over the next 30 years, according to a transport agency report published yesterday.

By JOHN ROSS PLANS to impose higher charges on renewable energy generators in outlying areas are to be challenged by Highlands and Islands Enterprise.