abc-logo
Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.

Please submit form to schedule a

Personal Care Consultation

Local Magic Personal Care Consultation

Please submit this form below and we will chat shortly!

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Home Care In Highlands, NC

Home Care Highlands, NC

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Highlands, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Highlands, NC

location Service Areas

The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I like my caregiver. They've made my experience positive by sending me Barbara.”

Marvin ".
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I feel comfortable with them so far. I don't have any problems getting things done when the caregivers show up.”

Ralph R.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“ABC has provided care for my client for 5-6 years. They have been great! Melisa and Autumn have given extra effort and care to assist with managing my client's needs. I don't know how I would have made it without them.”

Becky C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care for Seniors has served my clients well based on feedback received. They take the time to assess the needs of caregivers and care recipients alike and establish a detailed person-centered plan of care that addresses the care needs and wellbeing of the care recipient. This approach builds rapport and confidence with the caregiver and emphasizes respite for the caregiver while meeting the care recipients’ needs.”

Bethanie T.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider Belinda has done everything I have asked and more. Belinda has gone above the call of duty.”

Roger M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They are courteous, polite, kind and hard-working. It helps keep him interactive with people.”

Paul H.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I liked the intake interview lady. Mary, the nurse, is very encouraging. Their presence is helpful because I can't be there.”

Gaye B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are flexible and the people that they provide have been good so far. They have removed a lot of stress from my life.”

Terry A.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“The team with Always Best Care were instrumental in the assistance with my mom during her decline and eventual passing. They were thoughtful, kind, supportive, considerate and readily available. Mary, one of the nurse managers at the Asheville location, was so supportive it is as if she became family. She would come without hesitation as I navigated through this difficult time offering tremendous support. She not only foresaw what was needed, but understood what I needed and catered to that need. She is a tremendous asset to your team! I am forever grateful for her.”

Hanna M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I'm a new hire and the office staff is wonderful, informative and thorough. I feel like this will be a most rewarding opportunity.”

Julie C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I'm so happy to have such a professional and reliable agency that I can refer my caregivers to and know that they will receive the service they need to assist with the care of their loved ones with dementia,”

Lisa K.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Seniors Services provide the personal touch in-home care! From our initial call inquiring about services, to meeting the owner Jim Smeaton to discuss our unique family needs, to the caring compassionate and understanding caregivers we are thoroughly impressed. Its such a relief knowing our loved ones are receiving the care they deserve.”

James K.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Highly professional and very caring. A great company”

Joyce P.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I love this company. They are always very responsive. They truly care about the ones that they care for.”

Deavon M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Wonderful service, very helpful, great communication.”

Alyssa M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“All their caregivers are nice, show up, rarely late, and very helpful and kind. They are reliable, and the caregivers are sweet and attentive.”

Nancy G.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They give me the peace of mind. They are always able to be reached and are willing to work with you.”

Linda L.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“My husband has dementia. They have helped me continue to work and feel comfortable in knowing my husband is safe with excellent care. The office listens, really hears and is helpful to support and meet needs. Our caregiver, Chip, has become family. He was very personable, attentive to needs, brings extra in music, stories, making sure to pay attention to the patient and give accordingly. He is always kind and gracious. We are blessed to have them.”

Carolyn S.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Very great place to work! The staff is very supportive!”

Ashley S.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“This place is absolutely amazing to work for!! The office team is so welcoming and helpful anytime I call or come in, and my clients are wonderful! It’s more like helping a friend all day instead of working like clockwork!”

Jodi R.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“They do what I ask them to do which makes my life easier. They are always on time and they always finish the job during the day.”

Randall P.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“The most caring compassionate place i have ever been to”

Tiffany B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Outstanding care and compassion for both clients and employees”

Jessica
×
TESTIMONIALS

“They really appreciate to have their employees there . And that makes me feel happy just being in there in their organization .. my google is under Stephanie young but my last name is now Duarte . Young was my married name , I’m divorced now”

Stephanie Y.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I went for my interview there a week ago and the staff were so nice and welcoming. I’m excited to join the team and see the great things they have in store.”

Kandice S.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Highlands, NC?

lm-check

Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

lm-check

When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

lm-check

The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

lm-check

At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Highlands, NC

Types of Elderly Care in Highlands, NC

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Highlands, NC
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Highlands, NC
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Highlands, NC
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Highlands, NC

Benefits of Home Care in Highlands, NC

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

Request More Information vector

Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Highlands, NC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Highlands, NC

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your NC's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Highlands, NC

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Highlands, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Highlands, NC

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Highlands, NC

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Home Care Highlands, NC

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Highlands, NC

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

lm-right-arrow
01

A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

lm-right-arrow
02

Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

lm-right-arrow
03

Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Highlands, NC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Highlands, NC

Latest News in Highlands, NC

Major Upgrades at Highlands-Cashiers Hospital

When I first arrived in Highlands in August of 1971, our community hospital was equipped with a Korean War vintage X-ray machine whose films needed chemical processing. We eventually had a mobile CT scanner that came once a week, and then our own scanner installed in the basement of what is now the Peggy Crosby Center. Things improved when the new hospital opened in March of 1993.With the opening of the new hospital, we had up-to-date portable and stationary X-ray machines. The CT scanner was up to date as well—a real X-ray depa...

When I first arrived in Highlands in August of 1971, our community hospital was equipped with a Korean War vintage X-ray machine whose films needed chemical processing. We eventually had a mobile CT scanner that came once a week, and then our own scanner installed in the basement of what is now the Peggy Crosby Center. Things improved when the new hospital opened in March of 1993.

With the opening of the new hospital, we had up-to-date portable and stationary X-ray machines. The CT scanner was up to date as well—a real X-ray department! Over time, computed radiology (CR Technology) was installed along with PACS. We then purchased an MRI machine. There was no room in the hospital, so it was installed in the Jane Woodruff Clinic, across the parking lot. This created challenges, with sick patients occasionally moved by ambulance from one building to another. This process tied up EMS. Other challenges included needing a medical doctor onsite for emergencies when injecting contrast for MRI studies.

Now, after two years of planning and a five-million-dollar capital investment, the Highlands-Cashiers Hospital Imaging Department is about to see a major upgrade. The CT suite has been enlarged and features state-of-the-art equipment. The new CT scanner, a 128-slice machine, reduces exam time and offers better image quality. It also contains metal reduction software that creates images with less distortion from metal implants like hip prostheses.

Similarly, the new MRI has much better resolution and offers the opportunity for future upgrades if needed. This wide bore MRI can finish a scan with better quality in less time for most procedures. With the unit now located in the hospital, patients no longer need ambulance transport to another building, allowing staff to care for more patients throughout the day.

To make room for these improvements, the rehab gym was moved to a larger, more open space, where some of the hospital’s administrative offices had previously been housed. In addition, the hospital’s laboratory was enlarged and two rooms for phlebotomy were added.

Tom Neal, Highlands-Cashiers CEO/CNO, and Lori Smith, Regional Manager-Imaging, expect the total project to be finished by the end of September, enhancing our ability to provide the best care to our community for years to come.

For more information on Highlands-Cashiers Hospital and the services we offer, visit missionhealth.org/highlands or call (828) 526-1200.

Neighbors, Narratives, and Nightfall Highlands-Cashiers Film Festival Debuts

Nestled atop the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, where rhododendrons line winding streets and Fraser firs brush carpeted hills, the Highlands-Cashiers Film Festival – slated for September 18–21 at the Highlands Performing Arts Center – offers more than cinema. It’s a celebration of storytelling, community, and the enduring power of place.Day one of the festival features a powerful moment: an exclusive sneak preview of The Gardener, set primarily in Highlands, where much of its story was brought to life....

Nestled atop the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, where rhododendrons line winding streets and Fraser firs brush carpeted hills, the Highlands-Cashiers Film Festival – slated for September 18–21 at the Highlands Performing Arts Center – offers more than cinema. It’s a celebration of storytelling, community, and the enduring power of place.

Day one of the festival features a powerful moment: an exclusive sneak preview of The Gardener, set primarily in Highlands, where much of its story was brought to life.

Produced and directed by Dabney Day, the story centers on Sabena Weathers (Radha Mitchell), a high-powered executive teetering on the edge of a corporate takeover. On a fateful drive home, she encounters a raven that leads her to a mountaintop property and a neglected garden. There, she meets Walter, an unassuming gardener whose presence gently guides her toward healing—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Adding tension to Sabena’s unraveling world is Tom, her attorney, played by David Andrews—an accomplished actor and North Carolina resident whose grounded portrayal adds both complexity and suspense. Whether Tom is ally or adversary remains uncertain until the film’s final moments.

“For me, The Gardener is a reflection of life’s quiet truths,” Day shares. “We each have our own higher power, our own small voice that knows the way. And when we choose to listen, to pay attention, we are forever changed.”

Featuring an original score by acclaimed composer Jeremy Little and a cast that brings depth and nuance, The Gardener stands at the heart of this year’s festival.

“Bringing this film to life was a tapestry woven from many generous hearts. Three in particular, Mike Macke, my beloved, and Ray and Diane McPhail, whose magical home became our set and gave the production an authenticity and warmth you’ll feel in every frame,” continues Day.

She adds, “Diane’s radiant kindness infused the air, while Ray—ever the steady hero—kept his distance but gave us his full blessing. The Highlands community itself wrapped us in support, from flower shops to restaurants, to the Highlands Hatter, where our Walter, the gardener played by William Miller, and master craftsman Derek ‘Duke’ created the extraordinary hat Walter wears—a style symbol in its own right.”

Diane, an artist and author, reflects: “To see our garden transformed into a living set was surreal. Dabney treated it with reverence. It wasn’t just backdrop—it was character.” She pauses, then smiles. “And now, to welcome our neighbors here for the Festival’s Soirée—it feels like the garden is giving something back.”

At its core, The Gardener is a meditation on love, loss, and the quiet art of release. Woven with symbolism and dreamlike transitions, the film invites viewers to journey through memory, presence, and the shadowed terrain of fear. Like life itself, it drifts between reality and reverie—reminding us, gently, that life is truly ‘but a dream.’

But the festival doesn’t stop at premieres – it reaches into the vaults of cult cinema to honor one of Highlands’ own. On Saturday night, the horror-thriller Grizzly (1976) returns to the screen, starring the late Andrew Prine, a longtime Highlands resident and beloved figure. Described as “Jaws on a tight budget,” Grizzly follows a park ranger’s desperate attempt to stop an 18-foot, 2,000-pound man-eating bear terrorizing a national forest. Shot in nearby Clayton, Georgia, the film featured several local extras, including members of the Rickman family. It was during this production that Prine met teenager Mary Bynum – now the owner of McCulley’s in Highlands – cementing a connection between Hollywood and the Highlands that endures to this day.

The screening includes a tribute clip featuring Prine, who passed away in Paris in 2022. Known for his roles in Chisum, CSI, and Quentin Tarantino’s favorite 1970s genre films, Prine is remembered not only for his talent but for his humility and kindness. “He was our favorite cowboy,” says festival organizer Heather Lowe. “This screening is our way of saying thank you.”

The festival’s heartbeat is its commitment to place. Over four days, more than 50 features and shorts—from independent dramas to beloved classics—will screen in venues that feel as welcoming as a neighbor’s living room. Filmmakers sit elbow to elbow with local residents who share a love of story. By day, they trade tips over coffee in local cafés; by night, churches and galleries transform into pop-up screening rooms.

Hollywood glitz arrives courtesy of Illeana Douglas, who on September 19 will introduce and discuss her breakout role in Ghost World. Known for memorable turns in Goodfellas, Cape Fear, and Grace of My Heart, Douglas brings a dual lens as performer and film historian. In a moderated Q&A, she’ll explore the indie spirit that made Ghost World a cult touchstone and share stories from her new book, Connecticut in the Movies. Festivalgoers will leave with fresh insight into how setting shapes cinematic storytelling—whether on a bustling city street or a sleepy mountain town.

The following afternoon, Catherine Wyler, daughter of legendary director William Wyler, will illuminate her father’s legacy in a special presentation. Alongside a newly restored screening of Roman Holiday, Wyler will offer a personal documentary tracing the behind-the-scenes evolution of her family’s cinematic heritage. From Audrey Hepburn’s debut to the Golden Age glamour that defined her father’s work, Catherine’s perspective bridges Hollywood lore and Highlands’ admiration for timeless artistry.

Beyond premieres and powerhouses, the festival champions grassroots voices. Seminars on Technicolor restoration, panel discussions with set decorator Bill Brzeski (Matilda), and hands-on workshops for young filmmakers ensure that every guest can participate – not just spectate.

When the credits roll on Sunday, the celebration continues with Highlands Porchfest, a free music event that spills onto front stoops and sidewalks. Banjo players, poets, and bluegrass trios will share stages carved from folding chairs and front steps, extending the festival’s invitation to create – and connect – long after the film reels rewind.

In Highlands and Cashiers, cinema is more than entertainment. It’s a shared experience, a spark for conversation, and a bridge between neighbors. This inaugural festival may be new, but its roots run deep in the soil of a town that knows how to tell a story.

For tickets and more information about the festival’s slate of events, workshops, and lectures, visit highlandscashiersfilmfestival.com.

High Times at Highlands Smokehouse

Often, when one finds good barbecue, an establishment’s atmosphere and décor is anywhere from staid to downright hole-in-the-wall. Yet, those slow-smoked meats and delectable sauces are what patrons are after, so appearances and extras might be overlooked.Well, at Highlands Smokehouse, guests can have it all. Not only have the meats been sought after for years, due to the process of slow-cooking them in a large, underground pit smoker, but the rest of the food is distinct and freshly made in-house and the setting is invit...

Often, when one finds good barbecue, an establishment’s atmosphere and décor is anywhere from staid to downright hole-in-the-wall. Yet, those slow-smoked meats and delectable sauces are what patrons are after, so appearances and extras might be overlooked.

Well, at Highlands Smokehouse, guests can have it all. Not only have the meats been sought after for years, due to the process of slow-cooking them in a large, underground pit smoker, but the rest of the food is distinct and freshly made in-house and the setting is invitingly rustic.

In fact, dining there feels more like a visit to a mountain home – with its high ceilings and wood paneling. Plus, the covered and vaulted deck is indicative of many Plateau homes’ outdoor rooms.

Our excellent and informative waitress, “Molly,” shared exuberantly that some of the menu items were distinct to a classic barbecue restaurant, and she was not kidding. One favorite, under the “Snacks” heading is called “Burnt Ends.” While it may not sound that appetizing, its title captures the countless culinary customers who truly love those overdone, crispier end pieces. These, from slow-cooked brisket, are served with a unique Cheerwine BBQ sauce and onion straws.

Pickled jalapenos accompany Brisket Queso and BBQ Nachos, and slightly spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are cooled with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Speaking of dressings, Highlands Smokehouse makes its own basil green goddess dressing that brings about a unique and appealing flavor profile to its three salad offerings: Smokehouse, Buffalo Chicken, and Big Green.

The latter piqued interest, with lettuces mixed with crunchy cabbage, scallions, and celery; and it did not disappoint. All of the salads, offered with five other dressings besides green goddess, can be made into a hearty meal by adding chopped pork, smoked chicken, roasted portobello, chopped brisket, chicken tenders, chicken salad, or shrimp.

And do not expect any frozen, commercial-kitchen-style sides to accompany melt-in-your-mouth meats. The house-made sides are grandma-approved recipes. For instance, the mac and cheese showcases oversized elbow pasta drenched in a creamy sauce and baked just enough to form a slight crust. The okra is lightly breaded and fried crispy – no greasy mess. Smokehouse beans reveal the establishment’s signature smoky alure, and the other 10 sides hit the quality and freshness mark as well.

While the pit-smoked meats are front and center on the menu, and there are five sauces to try, a Smokehouse burger, sandwiches, and tacos are selections as well.

Pairing perfectly with barbecue fare are cocktails, wines, and beer – as well as teas, sodas, and house-made lemonade. Ten different and rotating draft beer selections, many of which are from regional breweries, are available. Plus, popular brands in bottles and cans are mainstays.

One drink special that proved especially refreshing on a warm day was the Peach Bourbon Smash, made with fresh pureed peaches purchased at a nearby produce stand, and a splash of ginger ale and lemon juice. Also tried was one of the favorite house cocktails called Spicy Paloma. It features Lunazul tequila accented with grapefruit and – the kick – habanero bitters!

A true barbecue meal tends to fill up its customers, but the locally made and in-house-made desserts, cheesecakes, banana pudding, and key lime pie are must-tries. Or, at the very least, order to-go desserts to consume as a late-night snack, after the satiated feeling of a wonderful Highlands Smokehouse meal wears off and you are left wanting more.

Visit highlandssmokehouse.com for more information.

We Grew Up Here | Twenty Years, One Heartbeat

Time flies, and the Highlands High School Class of 2005 recently came together for their 20th reunion weekend – reminiscing, reconnecting, and sharing memories of growing up in Highlands.For this close-knit group, the weekend wasn’t just about catching up; it was about celebrating the lifelong bond with people they still consider family.Classmates Angela Aspinwall Brown, Kayla McCall Bryson, Alex Osteen, McKenzie Thompson, and Erin Munger Estes sat down for an interview.They all agreed that they were like fam...

Time flies, and the Highlands High School Class of 2005 recently came together for their 20th reunion weekend – reminiscing, reconnecting, and sharing memories of growing up in Highlands.

For this close-knit group, the weekend wasn’t just about catching up; it was about celebrating the lifelong bond with people they still consider family.

Classmates Angela Aspinwall Brown, Kayla McCall Bryson, Alex Osteen, McKenzie Thompson, and Erin Munger Estes sat down for an interview.

They all agreed that they were like family, having spent 15 school years together, beginning with Mrs. Wilma Gordon’s Preschool. They also shared that the Highlands Community was like family because everyone knew everyone and everyone watched out for you – and when necessary weren’t afraid to tattle on you – but we won’t go into that.

They felt safe.

Stories of Mrs. Wilma’s brought smiles to all their faces and memories started flowing as they remembered the weekly walks to the Hudson Library to check out a book and the Halloween parades when they all dressed in their costumes and held a parade down Main Street. Their parents lined the street to watch, all the business owners came out to say hello, and all the passersby watched and waved. They felt 10 feet tall.

Some recalled that in later years at elementary school, Mrs. Gordon’s son, Dana, worked there and never let anyone go hungry. If someone’s lunch account ran short, he quietly covered the cost.

Throughout their school years, many teachers left a lasting impact. Cathy McIntyre Ross was especially supportive and involved, even attending one of the reunion events with a poster board of class memories. Jane DeWolf helped them remember formulas and equations by turning them into songs — songs they still remember. Coach Mueller was funny and inspiring. Coach Smith always seemed like their number-one fan.

Speaking of coaches, school sports were an important part of most of their lives and while they may have started out as rag tag teams in the beginning, they excelled by the end, dominating in both soccer and basketball – all with incredible community support.

They loved High School Band and are sad that Highlands School no longer has a band.

When not in school they spent hours talking on corded phones. They hung out at the Rec Park, attended church and youth groups, and ate at their favorite spots – SweeTreats, Mountain Fresh, Hilltop Grill, Rib Country, Don Leon’s, Pescado’s, and The Pizza Place.

They felt loved, embraced, seen and valued in Highlands, and as they look back, they know that all children should be so lucky.

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.