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 am a current client of this provider I like the caregiver they give us. They always”
“I am a current client of this provider I'd like to see the communication improved. The”
“such a good environment everyone’s so kind so easy and welcoming !!”
“I am a current client of this provider They need to be better at communication and”
“Lindsay was the most helpful and professional individual I have ever worked with. Highly recommended!!”
“I can’t say enough wonderful things about Lindsay at Always Best Care. She is kind,”
“I am a current client of this provider I didn't like different caregivers coming all the”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are responsive when I”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that the agency is responsive. I am”
“Lindsay was amazing to work with. She made the whole process so much easier. She”
“Hiring process is amazingly easy, absolutely friendly environment, they care about what your needs are.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are showing up. We set”
“I am a current client of this provider I had a caregiver come to my home,”
“I am a current client of this provider Maybe the selection of employees could be improved;”
“I am a current client of this provider They are very reliable. They provide transportation. They help”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are easy to work”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are always on time. They”
“I am a current client of this provider They help with the needs that we have. It”
“I am a current client of this provider I like my caregiver. They've made my experience positive”
“I am a current client of this provider I feel comfortable with them so far. I don't”
“ABC has provided care for my client for 5-6 years. They have been great! Melisa”
“Always Best Care for Seniors has served my clients well based on feedback received. They”
“I am a current client of this provider Belinda has done everything I have asked and”
“I am a current client of this provider They are courteous, polite, kind and hard-working. It helps”
“I am a current client of this provider I liked the intake interview lady. Mary, the”
“I am a current client of this provider I like the caregiver they give us. They always come out once a while to make sure everything is okay.”
“I am a current client of this provider I'd like to see the communication improved. The people they have sent have been pretty good. They make it positive by taking care of my daily needs.”
“such a good environment everyone’s so kind so easy and welcoming !!”
“I am a current client of this provider They need to be better at communication and scheduling. The caregiver is amazing; the issue is with the office staff having high turnover and not being reliable. The caregiver has helped the most by giving my dad transportation to go to places like the grocery store, and she offers companionship.”
“Lindsay was the most helpful and professional individual I have ever worked with. Highly recommended!!”
“I can’t say enough wonderful things about Lindsay at Always Best Care. She is kind, compassionate, and truly goes above and beyond to make sure her clients feel comfortable, respected, and well cared for. Her professionalism, patience, and genuine concern for others really stand out. Knowing someone like Lindsay is there gives families real peace of mind.”
“I am a current client of this provider I didn't like different caregivers coming all the time, but we just have one now, and that's good. The days that the caregiver comes are good for us.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are responsive when I have questions or concerns. I like having one caregiver. I don't know what they could improve on.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that the agency is responsive. I am out and about, and I don't have to be with the client.”
“Lindsay was amazing to work with. She made the whole process so much easier. She went above and beyond to help us.”
“Hiring process is amazingly easy, absolutely friendly environment, they care about what your needs are. Orientation was quick and painless which is always a PLUS in my book! 10/10 recommend if you are looking for that 1st step into the healthcare field without all the extra certifications and such!”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are showing up. We set up a plan of care, and the plan has been executed very nicely.”
“I am a current client of this provider I had a caregiver come to my home, whom I liked very much, and they took her away. Since then, I have had a bunch of different ones come in, but I need one like that caregiver I liked. They do things for me that I can't do for myself anymore.”
“I am a current client of this provider Maybe the selection of employees could be improved; I don't know for sure. Explain to them that you don't need a cell phone at work. I appreciate them letting me stay in touch with them or them staying in touch with me.”
“I am a current client of this provider They are very reliable. They provide transportation. They help with anything she needs, depending on the day.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are easy to work with and they are good. They have been great with dealing with her.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are always on time. They have helped me the most with light housekeeping.”
“I am a current client of this provider They help with the needs that we have. It gives me time to go to the grocery store.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like my caregiver. They've made my experience positive by sending me Barbara.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“I am a current client of this provider They are courteous, polite, kind and hard-working. It helps keep him interactive with people.”
“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.”
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.
Sign inCornerstone Charter AcademyCardinals25-6Saturday, Oct 24, 20263:00pm EDTCherokeeBraves27-7CCA Girls Varsity Volleyball @ CherokeeGame InfoThe Cornerstone Charter Academy varsity volleyball team has an away playoff match @ Cherokee (NC) today @ 3p.MatchupRosterGame DetailsCornerstone Charter Academy (Greensboro) Team Videos3:1209/15 Highlights @ NCLA3:113:113:1210/14 Highlights vs NCLATeam ComparisonCornerston...
Sign in
Cornerstone Charter AcademyCardinals25-6
Saturday, Oct 24, 2026
3:00pm EDT
CherokeeBraves27-7
Game Info
The Cornerstone Charter Academy varsity volleyball team has an away playoff match @ Cherokee (NC) today @ 3p.
MatchupRoster
Game Details
Cornerstone Charter Academy (Greensboro) Team Videos
3:12
09/15 Highlights @ NCLA
3:11
3:11
3:12
10/14 Highlights vs NCLA
Team Comparison
Cornerstone Charter Academy (Greensboro)887
Kills
Cherokee902
Cornerstone Charter Academy (Greensboro)158
Total Blocks
Cherokee101
Cornerstone Charter Academy (Greensboro)423
Serving Aces
Cherokee232
Cornerstone Charter Academy (Greensboro)922
Digs
Cherokee1438
Cornerstone Charter Academy (Greensboro)829
Assists
Cherokee748
Cornerstone Charter Academy (Greensboro)1325
Receptions
Cherokee1
Key Players
Avg. Per Game
Chloe Cobb
#14MH
Kills
332280
Joscelyn Stamper
#13MH/OH
Chloe Cobb
#14MH
Total Blocks
8561
Joscelyn Stamper
#13MH/OH
Emery Jones
#5DS
Serving Aces
8843
Daisee Fourkiller-Raby
#10OH
Emery Jones
#5DS
Digs
320286
Joscelyn Stamper
#13MH/OH
Emily Southern
#7S
Assists
344529
Lilly Lossiah
#5S
Carolyn Rigby
#20DS
Receptions
4391
Jessa Efrid
#11
Scoring Averages
| Wins | S1 | S2 | S3 | S4 | S5 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cornerstone Charter Academy | 2.5 | 24.0 | 23.5 | 23.5 | 18.0 | 12.0 |
| Cherokee | 2.2 | 22.9 | 23.5 | 23.5 | 25.0 | -- |
Rankings
North Carolina
#62
#38
North Carolina Class 2A
#8
#6
Greenville
--
#8
Season Recap
Overall Record
25-6
27-7
Conference
15-0
12-0
Non-Conference
3-4
7-1
Head to Head
0-0
0-0
Home
14-1
12-1
Away
8-3
10-1
Neutral
3-2
5-5
Common Opponent
2-0
4-0
Playoff
2-0
2-0
In-State
25-6
24-3
Out-of-State
0-0
3-4
Win %
.806
.794
Conference %
1.000
1.000
SW
76
76
SL
19
19
Common Opponents
Hayesville
1-0
2-0
Murphy
1-0
2-0
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CHEROKEE, N.C. (WLOS) — At the Cherokee Speakers Place, Aaliyah Swimmer teaches adults how to become proficient in the Cherokee language. One of the adult students who nominated Swimmer says she has also received part of her identity from her teacher.It's a Halloween-themed lesson in Aaliyah Swimmer's classroom, all about carving and decorating pumpkins in Cherokee.Swimmer leads the small class of six adults, adults who applied for this two-year intensive Cherokee language program and spend forty hours a week getting paid...
CHEROKEE, N.C. (WLOS) — At the Cherokee Speakers Place, Aaliyah Swimmer teaches adults how to become proficient in the Cherokee language. One of the adult students who nominated Swimmer says she has also received part of her identity from her teacher.
It's a Halloween-themed lesson in Aaliyah Swimmer's classroom, all about carving and decorating pumpkins in Cherokee.
Swimmer leads the small class of six adults, adults who applied for this two-year intensive Cherokee language program and spend forty hours a week getting paid to become proficient.
"It's not easy," Swimmer said with a laugh. "It's a polysynthetic language. It's very tonal and it's a very specific language. It takes a lot of work."
THANKS TO TEACHERS: KIRSTEN COCHRAN
Swimmer, from Waynesville, went through the same program in 2021, after graduating from Western Carolina University. She says she didn't know much Cherokee when she started, but now is leading others with the goal of spreading the Cherokee language beyond the community.
"So if people can learn here and take that and teach it somewhere else, then we can reach our enrolled members that are not here on the boundary," she explained.
"She is patient and kind and passionate about our language. I'm so thankful we have her to help us keep this language alive," said student Tabitha Larch.
Larch says growing up in Baltimore, she felt something was missing.
"I would visit here but was never around a lot of the Cherokee traditions and things like that. My grandma always told me a lot about it, but I never experienced it for myself," Larch said.
THANKS TO TEACHERS: ELIZABETH TERRY
Larch moved to Cherokee in 2011 and says she developed an overwhelming desire to learn the language.
"Knowing the language, I feel like it just makes you closer to what you really are," Larch said.
Now in her forties, Larch says Swimmer's classes are challenging but worth it.
"It's extremely difficult. But it's possible and it's wonderful and it's extremely fulfilling," Larch said.
"I think it's really cool to be one of those places people can come and learn to speak their language with fluent speakers who work here," Swimmer added.
By mid-October, fall is already beginning to paint the Smokey Mountains of western North Carolina. But in Cherokee County, the season doesn’t unfold all at once. Here, changing elevations stretch the show, with canopies of yellow and burnt orange appearing first along the higher ridgelines before gradually coloring the valleys, around lakes and along rivers. That means there’s still plenty of time for Floridians to head north and catch some of the most beautiful weeks of the year.“Tucked into the far western corner o...
By mid-October, fall is already beginning to paint the Smokey Mountains of western North Carolina. But in Cherokee County, the season doesn’t unfold all at once. Here, changing elevations stretch the show, with canopies of yellow and burnt orange appearing first along the higher ridgelines before gradually coloring the valleys, around lakes and along rivers. That means there’s still plenty of time for Floridians to head north and catch some of the most beautiful weeks of the year.
“Tucked into the far western corner of North Carolina, Cherokee County offers a more relaxed, authentic mountain getaway where visitors can experience incredible fall scenery without feeling like a heavily commercialized destination,” says Casey Kerr, director, Cherokee County Tourist Development Council. “Less crowds. Less stress. More adventure.”
One of the best ways to take it all in is by a scenic road trip. The Cherohala Skyway winds through high-elevation forests and open mountain vistas, while roadside overlooks like Panther Top offer sweeping views across the ridges. On foot, waterfalls and hiking trails lead into the heart of the landscape, while the Murphy River Walk offers an easier-paced way to experience the color and calm.
Cherokee County offers a more relaxed, authentic mountain getaway where visitors can experience incredible fall scenery without feeling like a heavily commercialized destination—Casey Kerr
Fall adventures in the Smokey Mountains aren’t limited to hiking. Pedal into the mountains on Andrews Valley Rail Tours. The nine-mile loop follows historic railroad tracks through the Andrews Valley, with electric-assisted, four-seater railbikes rolling through woods, past farms and along the Valley River. The route includes a stop at the hand-carved 1894 Valley River Tunnel, where riders can explore and picnic beside the river before heading back.
There are plenty of reasons for leaf peepers to go off course, too. Start a crisp morning with coffee at a local café, browse a farmer’s market for locally grown produce and seasonal goods. Wander through the small downtowns of Murphy, Brasstown or Andrews, then settle into a spot like the Tattered Tartan Pub for some sliders, live music and locally made craft brews as the temperature drops. For a taste of the areas spirit’s, Valley River Vineyards lights the community firepit at dusk, where you can raise a glass of blackberry wine.
While the natural beauty draws visitors to the mountains, Appalachian culture gives the place its character. Local artists and makers, heritage sites and seasonal events offer glimpses into the traditions that have shaped the region. At the John C. Campbell Folk School, visitors can experience Appalachian crafts like blacksmithing, basketry and beadwork through classes, demonstrations and community events.
Fall doesn’t arrive all at once in Cherokee County, and that’s part of the appeal. By late October and into early November, the color is moving down the mountains, the air has turned crisp and the pace feels a little slower. It’s a season made for winding roads, long afternoons outside and discovering what’s around the next bend. And for Floridians looking to stretch fall a little farther, Cherokee County offers a pretty good place to do it.
A man visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park was sent flying when he strayed too close to a bull elk during mating season, video shows.It reportedly happened Saturday in the Oconaluftee area near Cherokee, and the man tried to outrun the animal, only to have his shirt hooked in the antlers.Video recorded by Tracey Howells shows nearby tourists tried using car horns to frighten the elk away, but it didn’t work. The identity of the man and details of any injuries were not revealed.The video has been viewed thou...
A man visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park was sent flying when he strayed too close to a bull elk during mating season, video shows.
It reportedly happened Saturday in the Oconaluftee area near Cherokee, and the man tried to outrun the animal, only to have his shirt hooked in the antlers.
Video recorded by Tracey Howells shows nearby tourists tried using car horns to frighten the elk away, but it didn’t work. The identity of the man and details of any injuries were not revealed.
The video has been viewed thousands of times on social media, stoking fears the elk will be euthanized as a threat to humans. That’s how the park deals with black bears deemed a threat to tourists.
Principal Chief Michell Hicks of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians says he took the community’s concerns to park Superintendent Charles Sellars, and has been assured the elk will be spared.
“The park is aware of the petition and recent rumors suggesting that we plan to euthanize an elk that made contact with a visitor. These claims are false. The park has no plans to euthanize the animal,” Sellars wrote in a statement to the Cherokee.
“Our focus remains on educating visitors about the importance of giving elk ample space to ensure both visitor and wildlife safety.”
The decision to leave the elk alone prompted thousands of reactions on social media, most showing support for the elk.
“The Smoky Mountains are not a Disney resort. It’s not an animatronic elk put there for your amusement,” Laura Tanner posted on Chief Hicks Facebook page.
“People must think them big pretty horns are pool noodles and bears have gummy worms for teeth and claws!” Shannon Oakes wrote.
The incident happened during mating seasonal (the rut), when bulls become “unpredictable” and fiercely protective of their turf, experts say. The National Park Service requires visitors to stay at least 25 yards away from elk.
Oconaluftee is a southern gateway into the park via North Carolina, and “is home to one of the park’s two main elk herds,” the National Park Service says.
“Elk are the largest animals in the Smokies — bull elk can reach up to 900 pounds, while cows may reach 600 pounds!” the park says.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a 165-mile drive northwest from uptown Charlotte.
CHEROKEE, N.C. (WLOS) — The New Kituwah Academy in Western North Carolina helps young Cherokee students reclaim their language.Cherokee Nation keeps its language alive through new Kituwah AcademyAs the nation marks America’s 250th anniversary, the Cherokee people of western North Carolina are demonstrating how cultural identity, resilience and language remain central to the American story. At The New Kituwah Academy, located in the heart of the Qualla Boundary, educators are working to ensure the Cherokee language s...
CHEROKEE, N.C. (WLOS) — The New Kituwah Academy in Western North Carolina helps young Cherokee students reclaim their language.
Cherokee Nation keeps its language alive through new Kituwah Academy
As the nation marks America’s 250th anniversary, the Cherokee people of western North Carolina are demonstrating how cultural identity, resilience and language remain central to the American story. At The New Kituwah Academy, located in the heart of the Qualla Boundary, educators are working to ensure the Cherokee language survives and thrives for generations to come.
“I'm doing this for my grandson. I'm doing this for my future great-grandchildren. I'm doing this for the community and so the rest of the teachers and the learners that we have right now. We're doing this for our tribe,” says Renissa McLaughlin, Director of Youth and Adult Education for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
OPEN SINCE 1925, WNC NATURE CENTER CONTINUES WILDLIFE CONSERVATION EFFORTS
From the late 19th century into the 1950s, Cherokee children were often sent to boarding schools, where they were taught to abandon their native traditions.
“It was about assimilation,” said McLaughlin.
Today, The New Kituwah Academy represents a different vision — one rooted in cultural preservation and the urgent need to pass the language on to a new generation. Founded in 2009, the academy serves children from 2 years old through sixth grade, teaching them to read, write and speak Cherokee.
THROUGH THE LENS: PHOTOGRAPHER ISAIAH RICE PRESERVES A LOST CHAPTER OF BLACK ASHEVILLE
“When people in your community hear children speak in the language, it sparks something in them.” ,” says McLaughlin.
That spark can be heard in the classrooms, where young students introduce themselves in Cherokee and grow up speaking two languages.
“It isn't work,” says McLaughlin. “It's a responsibility.”
As America continues to celebrate its 250th anniversary, the Cherokee community in western North Carolina offers a reminder that native languages and cultures are not relics of the past. They remain a living, essential part of the nation's identity, and their future depends on generations determined to keep them alive.
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