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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

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Home Care In Fletcher, NC

Home Care Fletcher, 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.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Fletcher Clock Tower gets harder without someone by their side. 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 Fletcher, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Fletcher, NC

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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.

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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.
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TESTIMONIALS

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

Tiffany B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Outstanding care and compassion for both clients and employees”

Jessica
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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.
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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.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Barbara D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Randall P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Kathryn M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Joanne G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Joe W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Lisa C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Roger M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Bob N.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Bob N.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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!!”

Jennifer H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We were blown away and continue to be by the quality of service and care that the team of ALWAYS BEST CARE provides our family. My parents were moving from out of state and were in immediate need of in-home care. Melisa was wonderful! She was able to help us line up the intake paperwork, clinical assessment and a caregiver within 24 hours of my parents’ arrival in to their new home. Millie and Bethany are tremendous support as their clinical nurse team with a very thorough assessment of both parents. Mary is their care coordinator and was very helpful with finding the perfect caregivers and coordinate the right schedule for my parents . Melisa, Nicole, Jennifer and Janet are also a tremendous asset as they handle and place the caregivers! Jim Smeaton, their owner should be proud of his company! We highly recommend them!”

Katherine K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“ABC in Fletcher has an amazing team, and they made a huge difference for myself and my mother. We had them as in-home caregivers for 10 months. They are responsible, flexible and just a solid group with whom to work. I could reach them by phone immediately almost every time I needed to contact them. They handled billing and insurance claims and kept the caregiver plans absolutely up-to-date. As well as the regular RN visits. Jan, Mary and Melissa rock in addition to our caregivers. My only reason for not giving five stars has to do with the systemic challenge of finding enough caregivers. And in our case, caregivers who are proficient with Parkinson’s patients.”

Jennie G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“After Many years of retirement from critical care nursing I have found the perfect employment enabling me to to care for others. Working with the staff at Always Best Care has been such a blessing and I love my clients that I work with.”

Kathryn W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I feel like I'm part of the family every time I'm there! A lovely bunch of ladies! The best quality care provider in the business!”

John Z.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have had many dealing with Always Best Care during my professional healthcare career. They have always provided great care to the seniors they serve. Jim and his team are great to work with and always go above and beyond not only in serving seniors but supporting many events in the community. I would highly recommend ABC for any in home needs.”

Bob P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I like working with Always Best Care Senior Services because the office staff are so nice and understanding and I have gotten to know them on a level that I know they are here to help me, when I need help or have a questions. From day one when I have called, they have ALL been here to help guide me and they have been there every time I’ve had a questions. Working for ABC has been an honor because I really do love the company and we have some sweet clients. The ladies that work in the office are amazing and without them I do not think our company would thrive like it does. When I did an application, it was on accident and then I got a phone call asking me to come in and interview and honestly I’m so blessed. I love my job because it is my passion to help people and to do what I can to make their daily living better and easier. I honestly don’t think there is anything that needs to change about ABC. I have never worked for such an amazing company before”

Craig R.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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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 Fletcher, NC

Types of Elderly Care in Fletcher, 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 Fletcher, 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 Fletcher, 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. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Bill Moore Community Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

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 Fletcher, 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. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Stone Ridge Tavern, don't feel bad. 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 Fletcher, NC

Benefits of Home Care in Fletcher, 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.

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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 Fletcher, 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 Fletcher, 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 Fletcher, 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 Fletcher, 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 Fletcher, 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 Fletcher, 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.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Fletcher View Inn
  • Silverbell Homestead
  • Universal Healthcare/Fletcher
  • Becky's Rest Home Inc
  • Closest assisted living
  • Fairview Family Care Homes
Home Care Fletcher, 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 Fletcher, 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

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

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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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 Fletcher, 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 Fletcher, NC

Latest News in Fletcher, NC

NC Mountain State Fair to open at Ag Center: What to know about prices, hours, rides, more

ASHEVILLE - Dill pickle lemonade, Krispy Kreme burgers and fluorescent Ferris wheels. It’s that time of year again for the North Carolina Mountain State Fair, where you’ll be able to find your favorite fairground food, rides and competitions from Sept. 8-17 at the Western North Carolina Agricultural Center at 1301 Fanning Bridge Road in Fletcher."We have had a lot of focus on Western North Carolina Heritage and really celebrating what makes Western North Carolina so special," said Ellerslie McCue, ...

ASHEVILLE - Dill pickle lemonade, Krispy Kreme burgers and fluorescent Ferris wheels. It’s that time of year again for the North Carolina Mountain State Fair, where you’ll be able to find your favorite fairground food, rides and competitions from Sept. 8-17 at the Western North Carolina Agricultural Center at 1301 Fanning Bridge Road in Fletcher.

"We have had a lot of focus on Western North Carolina Heritage and really celebrating what makes Western North Carolina so special," said Ellerslie McCue, marketing and communications coordinator for North Carolina Western Agricultural Programs on the 2023 Mountain State Fair.

However, there are a few changes and exciting events at this years fair. Here’s what you need to know before heading out for your favorite fairground snack.

How do I get tickets?

Unlike recent years, admission tickets are not available at local Ingles, McCue said.

"We're not selling about Ingles this year, and our ride tickets are going to only be available at the fair," McCue said.

More:First Labor Day parade in Canton since mill closure is 'something you can't miss'

More:King Apple Parade brings NC Apple Fest to a close in Hendersonville on Labor Day

Rides

Get in free?

For fair foodies:Love it or hate it: Eye-catching food, drinks at this year's Mountain State Fair

Parking

Weather

The first few days of the fair should have mostly sunny weather, and a weekend high of 84 expected, according to the National Weather Service. There is a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms on Sept. 9 with clearing expected later in the weekend.

Photos:2022 NC Mountain State Fair

Fair hours

Fair events

While there are many events going on every day during fair hours, here’s a few to highlight from the fairs first four days:

Will Hofmann is the Growth and Development Reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Got a tip? Email him at[email protected].

WNC Food Scene: Blue Sky Café sets date for reopening, dessert waffle spot set to open in Biltmore Park

FLETCHER, N.C. (WLOS) — For this week’s WNC Food Scene, we have some updates on restaurants we’ve been following, plus a beverage collab raising money for local charities -- and a way to save money at over 40 restaurants in Asheville.WLOSDolly Llama Waffle MasterFirst – the Dolly Llama Waffle Master in Biltmore Park is getting closer to opening.Owners Kristie and Ryan Bivins said work continues on ...

FLETCHER, N.C. (WLOS) — For this week’s WNC Food Scene, we have some updates on restaurants we’ve been following, plus a beverage collab raising money for local charities -- and a way to save money at over 40 restaurants in Asheville.

WLOS

Dolly Llama Waffle Master

First – the Dolly Llama Waffle Master in Biltmore Park is getting closer to opening.

Owners Kristie and Ryan Bivins said work continues on the buildout, and they expect to open in the first or second week of January.

The store specializes in bubble waffles, milkshakes and ice cream.

The franchise has other storefronts across the country, from Los Angeles to Charleston, S.C.

Blue Sky Café

Blue Sky Café in Fletcher is still working on its rebuild after someone drove their car into the side of the building in September, causing structural damage.

The GoFundMe account created to help support the restaurant's hourly staff raised $14,571 as of Dec. 7, 2023.

The owner of Blue Sky Café said they rebuilt the back wall of the restaurant and are still waiting on hook-ups, inspections and permits.

They expect to reopen by Monday, Dec 18.

Christmas Jam Soda

Asheville’s annual Christmas Jam is Saturday, Dec. 9, and Devil’s Foot Beverage Company released a collaboration ahead of the concert.

The newly brewed Unity Berry Soda is made with blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, sour cherries and lime juice.

You can buy it as an alcohol alternative at the Jam or at Devil’s Foot Tasting Room or Appalachian Vintner.

And a portion of the proceeds will go to Beloved Asheville and Asheville Habitat for Humanity.

AIR 2024 Passport

Asheville Independent Restaurant Association’s 2024 passport is now available.

The $75 pass includes deals at over 40 restaurants around Asheville including Biscuit Head, Curate, French Broad Chocolate Factory, Sunny Point Café and Wicked Weed.

The Association said the deals include buy one get one specials, only available to passport holders.

The deals equal up to $700 in value, are available throughout the year.

French technology manufacturer to bring 92 new jobs, $35 million to Henderson County

FLETCHER - A French technology manufacturer that was recently awarded a near $880,000 economic incentive over five years by the Henderson County Board of Commissioners chose Henderson County as its first North American manufacturing center, bringing 92 new jobs and a $35 million investment.Tageos, a global designer and manufacturer of radio-frequency identification inlays and tags, will be coming to the former Continental Automotive Systems building, which is now called Quality Point. The site is located within the Broa...

FLETCHER - A French technology manufacturer that was recently awarded a near $880,000 economic incentive over five years by the Henderson County Board of Commissioners chose Henderson County as its first North American manufacturing center, bringing 92 new jobs and a $35 million investment.

Tageos, a global designer and manufacturer of radio-frequency identification inlays and tags, will be coming to the former Continental Automotive Systems building, which is now called Quality Point. The site is located within the Broadpoint Industrial Park in Fletcher.

“The Town of Fletcher is thrilled to see new life at Quality Point. With strong infrastructure in place, this building is unlike any in our region. Tageos is the first of many companies that will find their new home here,” Fletcher's Mayor Preston Blakely said in a news release.

In addition to the incentive offered by Henderson County, the North Carolina Department of Commerce awarded the company with a grant through the One North Carolina Fund, which is a cash-grant program that responds quickly to competitive job-creation projects, according to the Department of Commerce's website.

Previous Reporting:County to give over $850,000 to anonymous European manufacturer as incentive

More:Fletcher eighth grader raises funds for earthquake victims by baking cookies

Fletcher will also provide incentives to the company, according to the release, and customized training will be available at Blue Ridge Community College.

"Henderson County’s strong economy and thriving manufacturing community continue to attract companies from all around the world, just like Tageos. Their decision to invest in our county will significantly strengthen the high-tech sector, and the new jobs will improve the quality of life for all citizens,” Chair of the Henderson County Board of Commissioners Rebecca McCall said in the release.

Each of the grants are based on job creation and capital investment, so the company will receive no money upfront, the release said. To get the allotted cash, the company must meet established targets and pay taxes.

The company plans to invest $33.75 million in machinery and equipment and $2 million in property improvements by 2028. The new jobs created will have an average annual wage of $67,000, over 40% above the county-wide average, the release said.

For the company, a location in the United States will help to serve customers in North and South America, Tageos CEO Matthieu Picon said in the release.

Education:Partisan Henderson County School Board election bill filed in state Senate

Parking:Main Street kiosks installed; city's parking deck ribbon cutting set for March 1

"This new facility will also help us to further accelerate our sustainability mission of producing products in the same region where they are used," Picon said. "With that, customers can truly benefit from the fact that our RFID inlays and tags will be available quickly and sustainably."

Quality Point has over 338,000 square feet of manufacturing and headquarters space. Tageos is the building's first manufacturing tenant and will use around 50,000 square feet, but the building still has 30,000 square feet of tech space, 21,000 square feet of office space and up to 150,000 square feet of manufacturing space.

Christian Smith is a reporter for the USA Today Network. Questions or Comments? Contact him at [email protected] or (828) 274-2222.

How Kierra Fletcher went from Dawn Staley fan to South Carolina women's basketball starter

COLUMBIA — The last time Kierra Fletcher played in the NCAA Tournament in 2021, she wor...

COLUMBIA — The last time Kierra Fletcher played in the NCAA Tournament in 2021, she wore a navy and gold Georgia Tech jersey. Fletcher and Yellow Jackets were eliminated by South Carolina women's basketball in the Sweet 16. The point guard hasn't forgotten.

Fletcher joined No. 1 South Carolina (32-0) this season as a graduate transfer after missing her entire senior year at Georgia Tech due to a foot injury that required surgery. She will wear a garnet jersey in her first NCAA Tournament appearance since that 2021 loss to the Gamecocks when her new team faces 16-seed Norfolk State (26-6) on Friday (2 p.m., ESPN) at Colonial Life Arena.

Fletcher logged 16 points, seven rebounds, three assists and three steals in the 2021 matchup, but Georgia Tech ultimately fell 76-65 to the South Carolina. The Gamecocks went on to reach the Final Four that season but lost to eventual national champion Stanford.

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"Ki did not hold back, I will say that," Gamecocks senior Brea Beal said with a laugh. "She did not hold back. This will be her first official tournament back from her injury, so she was like 'I remember when we played you guys in the tournament, and it didn't end well.' But I was like, yeah I remember that."

However, the loss isn't what Fletcher remembers most about the Sweet 16 matchup. As a self-describe "basketball junkie" and lifelong fan of South Carolina coach Dawn Staley, Fletcher was starstruck at the opportunity to meet her after the game.

"When I'm around someone or have the opportunity to meet someone that I look up to that much, I just really get extremely nervous," Fletcher said. "I went up to Coach and I was like, I just want to let you know I'm your biggest fan and like, I love you ... I just thought it was really cool, and my coach took a picture of us and stuff."

In that moment, Fletcher never imagined for a moment that she would one day be playing for Staley. Even when she entered the transfer portal a year ago, she didn't think South Carolina would be an option until the Gamecocks reached out to her.

This season, Fletcher has been more than an option for the Gamecocks. She won the starting point guard job over redshirt freshman Raven Johnson after two games, and has started in every game since except for the SEC Tournament championship game she missed due to an ankle injury. She averages 7.1 points and 3.4 rebounds per game.

"Ki has a lot of knowledge. She's super smart," senior guard Zia Cooke said. "She's been in the game for a while so she knows what's needed, and she trusts us. We trust her. If she was here with us for the long run, we would have been even better."

Fletcher took her first official visit while South Carolina hosted the first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament in 2022. Finishing her college basketball career playing in an identical scenario feels poetic to the point guard.

"It's weird because the hotel that we're staying at right now for the tournament is the same hotel that I stayed at with the team last season that they had to stay at as well," Fletcher said. "It's all coming so fast. It's like two, three weeks left and after that real life actually starts. It's crazy, so I'm just trying to soak it all in and stay in the moment now."

This Whimsical Tree House Airbnb in North Carolina Comes With 40 Acres of Private Land on a Wildlife Reserve

Vacation should be joyful, playful, and make you feel like a kid again. So, on your next outing, forgo the traditional accommodation options and opt for a tree house like this one in Fletcher,...

Vacation should be joyful, playful, and make you feel like a kid again. So, on your next outing, forgo the traditional accommodation options and opt for a tree house like this one in Fletcher, North Carolina, instead.

"If you want a walk on the wild side this is your spot," the Airbnb listing reads, noting that staying here is like "radical off-grid therapy."

The stunning tree house sits atop a tree on the "apex of the Eastern Continental Divide" on its own 40-acre plot in the middle of a wildlife preserve. As the owners note, the home is only accessible by an all-wheel-drive vehicle, making it an ideal spot for those who want to escape from the rest of the world.

However, the owners add, despite its rather remote setting there is still plenty to do nearby, including hiking the land and driving into town to visit local artisan shops, wineries, and dining in unique area restaurants.

Be warned: If you do book the tree house know you will be roughing it just a little. Yes, it's glamping, but the bathroom is still a portable toilet located about 50 feet from the tree. If you have to pee in the middle of the night you'll have to either climb down or pee in a bucket with a toilet seat and empty it in the portable toilet in the morning and rinse it out at the outdoor kitchen. However, if you're an avid camper this is nothing new to you.

The tree house also comes with a spring water dispenser with six gallons on the tree house deck along with a propane cooktop for mealtime needs. There is also a 500-watt Goal Zero solar generator that is capable of charging cell phones and laptops, though the owner's warn service could be spotty. But if you're choosing to vacation in a tree house in the woods do you really want there to be service anyway?

Inside the tree house, guests will find a delightfully appointed space with gorgeous hardwood floors, a fluffy bed with extra blankets, a couch, and a wood stove for staying warm. The best part may be the deck, which overlooks the land. As the owner's note, if you wake up early you could spot bobcats, foxes, deer, turkeys, hawks, falcons, grouse, owls, and ravens that call the land their home.

See more about the tree house and book it starting at $109/night here.

Stacey Leasca is a journalist, photographer, and media professor. Send tips and follow her on Instagram now.

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