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
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 Cherokee, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 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.
“I'm so happy to have such a professional and reliable agency that I can refer”
“Always Best Care Seniors Services provide the personal touch in-home care! From our initial”
“Highly professional and very caring. A great company”
“I love this company. They are always very responsive. They truly care about the ones”
“Wonderful service, very helpful, great communication.”
“All their caregivers are nice, show up, rarely late, and very helpful and kind. They”
“I am a current client of this provider They give me the peace of mind. They are”
“My husband has dementia. They have helped me continue to work and feel comfortable in”
“Very great place to work! The staff is very supportive!”
“This place is absolutely amazing to work for!! The office team is so welcoming and”
“They do what I ask them to do which makes my life easier. They are”
“The most caring compassionate place i have ever been to”
“Outstanding care and compassion for both clients and employees”
“They really appreciate to have their employees there . And that makes me feel happy”
“I went for my interview there a week ago and the staff were so nice”
“I am a current client of this provider It could just be his cooperation or lack”
“I am a current client of this provider They do what I ask them to do”
“I am Kathryn Merrell and for the past several months I have been under the”
“I am a current client of this provider She does whatever is needed without being asked. I”
“I am a current client of this provider Just being here and making meals is great.”
“As a caregiver I am so pleased with the care for the clients. I've never”
“I would recommend them because they provide good services. I've been down on my”
“They're very prompt about coming when they're supposed to and they do what we need”
“I am a current client of this provider They've helped the most just by being here,”
“I have honestly never met a group of people who care as much as the”
“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,”
“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.”
“Highly professional and very caring. A great company”
“I love this company. They are always very responsive. They truly care about the ones that they care for.”
“Wonderful service, very helpful, great communication.”
“All their caregivers are nice, show up, rarely late, and very helpful and kind. They are reliable, and the caregivers are sweet and attentive.”
“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.”
“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.”
“Very great place to work! The staff is very supportive!”
“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!”
“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.”
“The most caring compassionate place i have ever been to”
“Outstanding care and compassion for both clients and employees”
“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”
“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.”
“I am a current client of this provider It could just be his cooperation or lack thereof. It is regarding his cooperation regarding the service. He tends to not wake the caregiver for assistance during the night time. I would give specific names of individuals in this organization that I would request over others.”
“I am a current client of this provider 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.”
“I am Kathryn Merrell and for the past several months I have been under the care of ABC Senior Services. I have had the privilege of enjoying the care of Lois C. She is the best advertisement for your agency. When I am asked, which happens frequently, about my experience with ABC, I refer to Lois as being your prime example of the type of care they can expect from you. She goes beyond just basic care and does all she can to help remedy any problem we have. I love that I can trust her and feel safe having her share my home with me. She is very professional yet very "down home", a rare combination. You should be very thankful she is on your "team"! Because of her, I have no problem recommending your company to all who ask.”
“I am a current client of this provider She does whatever is needed without being asked. I have had a couple of very good people, one of which I have now. When I was getting going with them, I had a couple of people I would never like to have again, but that has all been ironed out.”
“I am a current client of this provider Just being here and making meals is great. But they could be more proactive. They need to be better at communicating.”
“As a caregiver I am so pleased with the care for the clients. I've never worked for a company that was so dedicated to clients and caregivers. Everyone is always happy, clients and staff. I am blessed to work here.”
“I would recommend them because they provide good services. I've been down on my health, so it's been a blessing to have them taking care of him for me. I appreciate that the caregivers are friendly.”
“They're very prompt about coming when they're supposed to and they do what we need them to do. They've helped the most just by being here.”
“I am a current client of this provider They've helped the most just by being here, and doing what they're supposed to. They're very prompt about coming when they're supposed to and they do what we need them to do.”
“I have honestly never met a group of people who care as much as the Always Best Care team. I have watched the staff there change lives for the better, not only for clients but each other as well. It is a pleasure to be a part of this team, nothing compares to it!!”
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.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
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.
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.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home 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:
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:
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:
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.
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:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
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.
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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.
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 Cherokee, 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.
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:
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 Cherokee, 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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
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 Cherokee, 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.
CHEROKEE, N.C. (WLOS) — A fire that broke out at Riverside Motel in Cherokee this week left people who had been staying there displaced.An emergency shelter set up by the Red Cross is now in place, but there are more steps needed to find more permanent housing. Cherokee officials say that about 20 people were living at the Riverside Mote...
CHEROKEE, N.C. (WLOS) — A fire that broke out at Riverside Motel in Cherokee this week left people who had been staying there displaced.
An emergency shelter set up by the Red Cross is now in place, but there are more steps needed to find more permanent housing. Cherokee officials say that about 20 people were living at the Riverside Motel at the time of the fire, but all of them got out safely.
“It sounded like someone was running on the roof,” said Keisha Smith.
Smith, her husband and 10-year-old son were staying at the motel when the fire broke out late Monday night.
“I told them to get up because they were asleep. 'Get up, it's a fire. Let's go,'" she said.
She says her husband reached for a door.
OVER 30 DISPLACED AFTER RIVERSIDE MOTEL FIRE IN CHEROKEE, EMERGENCY SHELTER SET UP
“As soon as he opened the door, the flames flew. The flames were so fast and so hot. It just burnt real fast, like it just – we didn't have time to get nothing. We just got out,” Smith said.
Anthony Sequoyah, secretary of operations for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, confirmed the severity of the fire.
"The lower end of the building was fully involved, flames coming through the roof. [That] got it knocked down pretty quick. Fortunately, no injuries,” Sequoyah said. "There was about 10 enrolled members – local people – that resided here and then another 10 plus that appears to be workforce, people that work here, that stay here."
Monday night stretched into early Tuesday morning. Between the American Red Cross and the tribe, arrangements were made for the motel evacuees to find temporary housing.
CREWS RESPOND TO TWO STRUCTURE FIRES IN ASHEVILLE
“Thank God for them. We have somewhere to stay,” said Smith. “I went to Qualla Housing today and filled out applications and hopefully, she's going to get us a room for three nights and then start looking for somewhere permanent to stay. I'm trying to keep a smile on my face. But, it's hard at the same time."
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Murphy is a town where history runs deep and nature flourishes. Murphy’s history is intertwined with the Cherokee people, who once inhabited this land. In 1836, during the forced Native American removal known as the Trail of Tears, the U.S. Army built Fort Butler in present-day Murphy, serving as a holding point for Native Americans before their journey west.Today, the town commemorates its rich heritage while celebrating its bright future. Known as “the city of flowers&rd...
Located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Murphy is a town where history runs deep and nature flourishes. Murphy’s history is intertwined with the Cherokee people, who once inhabited this land. In 1836, during the forced Native American removal known as the Trail of Tears, the U.S. Army built Fort Butler in present-day Murphy, serving as a holding point for Native Americans before their journey west.
Today, the town commemorates its rich heritage while celebrating its bright future. Known as “the city of flowers” in the summertime, Murphy is a thriving mountain town with a beautifully adorned downtown area, a vibrant cultural scene, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Whether you're soaking your feet in the peaceful riverbanks or exploring the trails of the nearby Smoky Mountains, Murphy invites you to get back to the basics and enjoy the simpler things in life. Here are 15 ways to make the most of your stay in this historically-rich town.
This scenic greenway surrounding Murphy’s historic town center is as culturally significant as it is beautiful. Thoughtfully constructed in 2002 to honor the natural environment, the Murphy River Walk traces the banks of the Hiwassee and Valley Rivers, where the two rivers converge to create the backwaters of Lake Hiwassee. Take a stroll along the 4-mile walking trail or paddle along the canoe trails to discover natural features that inspired Cherokee legends, such as the dogwood trees that were once believed to house tiny people, and The Leech Place—a spot along the Valley River—that was said to be home to a giant leech.
alltrails.com; Murphy Riv Walk, Murphy, NC 28906
Though just 30 minutes from downtown Murphy, this tucked-away oasis feels worlds away. Fires Creek Falls offers a recreation area equipped with picnic tables, grills, and of course the namesake cascades. You can spread a picnic blanket on the smooth, flat rocks and watch as people float gently down the river on inner tubes. Or bring your swimsuit, and join in on the fun. Surrounding the river are several serene hiking trails, including a short, easy stroll that leads to the rolling falls.
fs.usda.gov; 1767 Fires Creek Wildlife Rd, Hayesville, NC 28904; 828-837-5152
Nothing brightens up one’s day quite like spending time with adorable animals. Two Crows Farm, a sustainable and renewable fiber farm, allows you to get up close with alpacas, llamas, and guardian dogs. This mom-and-pop operation also features an art gallery showcasing handmade items, such as blankets and ponchos, crafted from the farm's own fiber. Enjoy a tour from the knowledgeable owners and learn fun facts about the animals. Tours and shopping both require an appointment, so be sure to call ahead of time. While the tours are free, the farm does accept cash donations to keep their operation running.
facebook.com/twocrowsfarm; 1495 Boiling Springs Rd, Murphy, NC 28906; 828-837-1678
Spanning over 200 acres along the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Fields of the Wood is the only biblical-themed park in North Carolina. This unique park welcomes visitors from all walks of life to experience the various mountaintop attractions, including the world’s largest display of the Ten Commandments, which stands 30 feet tall and 50 feet wide atop a sloped hill. Guests can choose to either take the stairs to the top of the display or drive along the paved road. Other attractions include replications of Golgotha and the Garden Tomb, a baptismal pool, and 29 marble markers with engraved biblical teachings.
co.gop.org/flow; 10000 NC-294, Murphy, NC 28906; 828-94-7855
This locally owned establishment is a gift store, coffee shop, and donut shop all rolled in one. On a chilly day, Rare Bird Emporium is great for some indoor sightseeing. Sip on specialty coffee, loose-leaf tea, or velvety hot chocolate while you indulge in a box of the shop’s homemade mini donuts. Then, wander through the store to discover a colorful collection of handmade local goods, ranging from unique artwork to edible goods and artisanal crafts. This store is full of surprises, and you’ll find something new at every turn.
rarebirdemporium.com; 680 Andrews Rd, Murphy, NC 28906; 828-412-0607
Downtown Murphy is full of restaurants that feel like a warm hug, including this New York-style deli. Housed inside of a renovated 1921 building, Red Brick Deli 2 is known for its fresh-baked Key lime pie and hearty, overstuffed sandwiches. Whether you order the Rueben or the Cuban sandwich that comes on authentic Cuban bread, this laid-back lunch spot is an ideal place to recharge in between activities.
facebook.com/redbrickdeli2; 89 Tennessee St, Murphy, NC 28906; 828-837-9090
This anything-but-ordinary ice cream shop located inside the Mason Bar (a casual eatery) is worth saving room for after dinner. For those 21 and over, indulge in their famous “twisted” shakes–-alcohol-infused creations topped with an eye-catching tower of sweets. But don’t worry, this is a family-friendly establishment, so you can also enjoy non-alcoholic versions of flavors like raspberry habanero, blueberry cheesecake, and apple pie—just to name a few.
facebook.com/MimosIceCreamNTwistedTreats; 46 Valley River Ave Suite D, Murphy, NC 28906; 828-390-4333
For a cozy end to your day, head to the back patio of Cherokee Cellars Winery for live music (Thursdays through Saturdays), assorted flatbreads, and a selection of carefully curated wines made in north Georgia and North Carolina. Make sure to take advantage of their wine tasting deal, where you can sample five wines for $5. Afterward, browse the wine-themed gift shop for unique décor, handcrafted gifts, or a bottle to take home as a memento of your visit.
cherokeecellarswinery.com; 23 Hickory Street, Murphy, NC 28906; 828-835-9565
Operated by local artists, this nonprofit art gallery—commonly known as the Murphy Arts Center—is all about showcasing locally-crafted artwork. Explore hundreds of thoughtfully made items, including glass art, paintings, photography, jewelry, and more. From May through December, don’t miss the Murphy Art Walk, held on the first Friday of each month. This vibrant art walk allows you to meet and purchase directly from dozens of Murphy-based artists.
valleyriverarts.com; 12 Peachtree St, Murphy, NC 28906; 828-360-3038
The grounds you walk on in Murphy were once occupied by Native Americans and early settlers who shaped the history of the region. At the Cherokee County Historical Museum, located inside a historic Carnegie Library building downtown, you can explore over 2,000 Cherokee artifacts, 40 exhibit panels interpreting their history, and over 700 collectible dolls. The museum also highlights the history of the Trail of Tears, housing a replica of the log cabins used by Cherokee residents who were removed from North Carolina in the 1830s
blueridgeheritage.com; 87 Peachtree St, Murphy, NC 28906; 828-837-6792
If you enjoy the thrill of never knowing what you’ll find next, spend a Saturday or Sunday at the locally-loved Deckers Flea Market. What began nearly 50 years ago with humble beginnings as a parking lot yard sale has grown into a thriving marketplace with dozens of vendors, local produce, and nostalgic finds. Enjoy a classic American hot dog, fresh-squeezed lemonade, or hot funnel cake as you roam through the pavilion.
deckers-flea-market.edan.io; 75 Blairsville Hwy, Murphy, NC 28906; 828-837-5753
Downtown Murphy is home to plenty of one-of-a-kind shops perfect for finding a sentimental souvenir. The Black & White Market, housed inside a brick building that’s been around for more than 100 years, is a local favorite. This gem offers a curated selection of locally-made pottery and candles, upcycled antiques, clothing and jewelry, farmhouse decor, and other unique items. With such a diverse and eclectic selection, it’s nearly impossible to leave without at least one thing catching your eye.
black-and-white-market.com; 40 Valley River Ave, Murphy, NC 28906; 828-516-1634
Just a 10-minute drive from Murphy, these cozy cabins offer scenic views of the Nottely River and the surrounding forest. River Cove Cabins offer a slower pace of life with amenities that encourage quality family time, including a game room, communal fire pit, and an outdoor barbeque charcoal grill at each of the cabins. Lay back in a rocking chair and take in views of the river from the property’s private covered deck, or venture out for a leisurely soak in the refreshing waters. And, if you have a furry companion, one to two small dogs are welcome for an additional $10 per night.
rivercovecabin.com; 1305 Hilltop Rd, Murphy, NC 28906; 828-644-9979
Harrah's Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel offers a modern, fun-filled stay seven minutes from the Murphy River Walk. Your hotel room will put you just steps away from the casino, five restaurants, and an entertainment area with bowling, billiards, and arcade games. If you love college sports, visit the Caesars Sportsbook, where you can place real-time wagers as you watch the game on a 32-foot screen.
caesars.com/harrahs; 777 Casino Pkwy, Murphy, NC 28906; 828-422-7777
Cherokee football coach Tim Hawkins has resigned as the Braves football coach, he announced in a Facebook post on Cherokee's Athletics page Friday....
Cherokee football coach Tim Hawkins has resigned as the Braves football coach, he announced in a Facebook post on Cherokee's Athletics page Friday.
Hawkins has coached the Braves for the past two seasons, guiding them to a 12-11 record and a 4-6 record in conference play. Hawkins is 30-50 all-time as a head coach, including a five-year stint as the coach of Smoky Mountain from 2001-05.
"I'd like to thank all the young men who played for our program the past two years. Thank you for your work and dedication to make this program better," Hawkins said in the post. "Braves Nation, your support is unlike the many places that I've worked at in my 36 years. Thank you for all you do and for showing up and being loud and proud."
Hawkins was hired in June 2023, just before the start of the season, after previous coach David Napert retired at the end of the 2022-23 school year. He led Cherokee to a 4-1 start to the season before struggling in conference play.
In 2024, Hawkins coached the Braves to a 7-5 record, their first seven-win season since 2018. They finished third in the Smoky Mountain Conference and beat Carver in the first round of the playoffs.
Cherokee will hunt for a new coach as it moves from a 1A school to a 2A school under the NCHSAA's expansion into eight classifications for 2025.
Hawkins is the sixth WNC football coach and second in the Smoky Mountain Conference to leave his position this offseason. Only Mountain Heritage has filled an opening, promoting assistant coach Jered Pope to take over after Joey Robinson's retirement.
Evan Gerike is the high school sports reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times. Email him at [email protected] or follow him on X, formerly Twitter, @EvanGerike.
828-676-2939
