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

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

Please submit form to schedule a

Personal Care Consultation

Local Magic Personal Care Consultation

Please submit this form below and we will chat shortly!

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

Home Care In Welcome, NC

Home Care Welcome, 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 North Carolina Executive Mansion in Welcome, NC 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 Welcome, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Welcome, NC

location Service Areas

The Always Best Care Difference

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

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

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

×
TESTIMONIALS

“Cody was incredibly helpful with finding just the right assisted living home for our Dad. He listened to our concerns, and matched him perfectly with the right place. Aside from being friendly, he even went above and beyond to help me find the right recliner for Dad. I would highly recommend Cody with Always Best Care Senior Services.”

Alison S.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent Senior Care Provider! I highly recommend this senior care provider to anyone looking for compassionate and dependable care for their loved ones. The team is caring, professional, and dedicated to making sure each resident receives the attention and support they deserve. They go above and beyond to create a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment. Their commitment to the well-being of seniors and their families truly makes a difference. It’s reassuring to know that there are care providers who treat every individual with dignity, kindness, and respect. Thank you for all that you do! Highly recommend this wonderful senior care provider! Thank you Cody Edwards!”

Melannie A.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I reached out to Cody and he was amazing and a life saver I had both of my parents in need of a asst living who are in their 90’s and he was able to place them and help me navigate the nightmare of paperwork, of moving out of state, and all the medical issues I recommend him for anyone who is going through this”

Michele M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Cody Edwards has spent the last two months helping our family as we walked a difficult journey with a sick loved one. He worked very hard to help us in spite of challenges and setbacks. He has a great attitude, always positive and solution-oriented! Laurie Hopkins, Hickory NC”

Laurie H.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Cody was extremely helpful finding an assisted living facility for our loved one. His guidance and knowledge made an extremely difficult situation easy. He was able to work with our schedule and set everything up. We thank you so much for all your help and for the follow up.”

Lorrie H.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care (ABC) is a top-notch reliable sitter service covering the Piedmont Triad in NC. Their internal staff is professional and efficient. They are always happy to answer any questions or concerns and they always respond in a very timely manner. ABC has quality sitters who will provide excellent care for your loved one with compassion, whether in a home or in a care facility. Always Best Care is appropriately named because they have “always” provided the “best care” to my mother-in-law, who has dementia. They have been helping her daily for the past three years. We are grateful for ABC’s help!”

Judy R.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I worked with Karla Dixon on a referral. Karla was very involved and helped facilitate the meeting and tour. Loved working with her and look forward to our partnership in the future!!!!”

Cindy B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I’ve seen firsthand the excellent care Always Best Care Senior Services provides. Their team is professional, compassionate, and truly dedicated to the well-being of those they serve. I highly recommend their services to anyone who may need them!”

Jessica N.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“The staff here are compassionate, professional, and truly go above and beyond. You can tell they genuinely care about their clients and their families.”

That_CarMeet_Guy
×
TESTIMONIALS

“5 stars all the way—professional, compassionate, and reliable. You can tell they genuinely care!”

Tanner C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Great work provided by this company, and great staff to execute their goals!”

Peggy B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“To see the work this company puts in to make sure their clients needs are met, means a lot to the community. Having care you can trust means the world to the families in need. From the first interaction over the phone to a smiling face that greets you at the door, this company is great for in home care!”

Robin G.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Not only is the care they provide outstanding, but the support from the front office is just as impressive. It’s comforting knowing you can call and talk to someone who genuinely cares and helps guide you through everything.”

Sheila H.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“It’s rare to find a company where both the caregivers and the office staff are this compassionate. From day one, the entire team made us feel comfortable and answered so many of our questions with guidance.”

Jaylin W.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Kaitlyn Jones is absolutely the best. Hands down!”

Amanda B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Quick responses, clear communication, and a very friendly admin team. Everything was handled efficiently and professionally.”

Georgia J.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Cody was very helpful getting tours setup for my daughter and me to tour independent living facilities. He contacted the facility and got all the needed information. He kept us well informed of what to expect. I appreciated his services. Cody is very caring.”

Judy E.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“We thoroughly enjoyed working with Cody while exploring independent living facilities for my mom. He spent time talking with us to learn what my mom was looking for in a place to live during the next chapters of her life and shared a variety of options. He scheduled and accompanied us on the tours. Cody was thorough, patient, kind and answered all of our questions. Even though my mom chose not to pursue independent living at this time, we appreciated the time Cody spent working with us and he will be the first call we make when/if she decides to pursue this route in the future. Thank you Cody!!!!”

Denise N.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Great care for your loved ones!”

Shanicka T.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“They have a good work team very satisfied with their care”

Dee Y.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care will not disappoint! They truly provide the best service for all of your in home care needs!”

Kyle N.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Services has been a wonderful experience, and Leslie Christian was especially helpful throughout the process. She was kind, professional, and took the time to answer questions and make everything feel easy and comfortable. It’s clear that she truly cares and wants to provide the best support possible. I would definitely recommend Always Best Care Services to anyone looking for dependable and compassionate care.”

Morgan P.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Absolutely fantastic caregivers, support staff and management. If you ever need any assistance CALL ABC. They were absolutley fabulous for our family.”

Sally M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“If you ever get Alexis on the phone, you’re in for a great experience. She’s funny, lively, and full of great energy. I actually caught myself laughing during the call, which almost never happens when calling places. Just a genuinely positive person who makes the conversation easy and enjoyable. Loved the energy! -cora”

Alvis W.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“We have had a great start with Always Best Care. They send daily caregivers to help my mother and always follow their well-thought out care plan. Their program is very organized and they are great with communication. Our caregiver, Allison, is especially fabulous ... she is ABOVE and BEYOND. She is so thorough, creative, and thoughtful. We feel very lucky to be on her list!”

Mary M.

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

lm-check

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

lm-check

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

lm-check

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

lm-check

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

 Senior Care Welcome, NC

Types of Elderly Care in Welcome, 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 Welcome, 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 Welcome, 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 Eno River State Park in Welcome, NC 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 Welcome, 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 The Paper Canoe or visit Welcome to Raleigh Mural, 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 Welcome, NC

Benefits of Home Care in Welcome, NC

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

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

Request More Information vector

Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

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

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

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

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

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

With the help of elderly care in Welcome, 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 Welcome, 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 Welcome, 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 Welcome, 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 Welcome, 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 Welcome, 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:

  • Grayson Creek Assisted Living
  • Carolina Reserve of Durham
  • Spring Arbor of Apex
  • Woodland Terrace
  • Brookdale Lexington
  • Mallard Ridge Assisted Living
Home Care Welcome, 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 Welcome, NC

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

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

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

lm-right-arrow
01

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

lm-right-arrow
02

Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

lm-right-arrow
03

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

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

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Welcome, 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 Welcome, NC

Latest News in Welcome, NC

University of North Carolina Athletics

Bill Belichick is a big believer in the importance of "hidden yards" to a team's success. The seemingly small and less obvious things that add up over the course of a game.One potentially overlooked way this year's Tar Heels have found hidden yards is with their discipline.UNC ranks fourth nationally in penalties (4) and penalty yardage (31.7) per game, each the best mark in the ACC.Those numbers are also big improvements from last season and recent years. In 2025, the Tar Heels averaged 6.6 ...

Bill Belichick is a big believer in the importance of "hidden yards" to a team's success. The seemingly small and less obvious things that add up over the course of a game.

One potentially overlooked way this year's Tar Heels have found hidden yards is with their discipline.

UNC ranks fourth nationally in penalties (4) and penalty yardage (31.7) per game, each the best mark in the ACC.

Those numbers are also big improvements from last season and recent years. In 2025, the Tar Heels averaged 6.6 penalties (87th) and 62.6 penalty yards (111th) per contest. The highest UNC has ranked in average penalty yardage since 2020 is 75th in 2022.

What's led to the considerable strides the Tar Heels have made in addressing penalties?

"It's the discipline of the players, and that's a lot better than it was last year on a lot of levels," Belichick said during his weekly news conference ahead of the Tar Heels' home game against No. 1 Miami on Halloween. "Not just on the field but off the field in terms of overall structure. The way you do some things is the way you do everything."

That assessment is in line with what Tar Heel players themselves have said about this year's squad. The group has a collective understanding of what's needed to play winning football.

"There's more ownership within the players with leadership on the team," said center and captain Christo Kelly. "Being able to see like 'OK, this is what we need to do. This is what's required.'"

Belichick breaks down penalties into three buckets: pre-snap, in-play and post-whistle.

You can minimize the number of in-play penalties (like holding or pass interference) you have with teaching of and adherence to technique, Belichick said.

Preventing pre-snap penalties (e.g., false start and offside, illegal formation, delay of game, etc.) starts with alertness and discipline, and the same largely applies to infractions near the end of or after a play, such as roughing the passer/kicker and personal fouls like late hits, unnecessary roughness or unsportsmanlike conduct.

Out of the Tar Heels' 28 penalties so far, 15 (54%) were in-play, 11 pre-snap (39%) and two post-whistle (7%).

"Coach does a really good job of teaching us how to win a game," wide receivers coach Garrick McGee said. "You cannot get penalties. We want to be the smartest team on the field. Being smart means there's no pre-snap or post-snap penalties — we eliminate them all. Some penalties during the action are going to happen, but we have to eliminate them because that hidden yardage adds up on us."

Sophomore running back Demon June said the Tar Heels' penalty improvements are a testament to him and his teammates playing the way they practice.

"Practicing the right way. Not trying to take shortcuts," June said. "Just playing hard through the whistle. Playing penalty-free just allows the game to be smooth and allows more plays to be made."

Three and out

A trio of additional notes from Monday's news conference

UNC has 40 true freshmen, and several have already made their names known, from Cristian Alvarez and C.J. Sadler on offense to Kenton Dopson III and Calvin Thomas on defense.

Another newcomer stepped up this past week against Syracuse, as wide receiver Nyqir Helton saw extensive playing time. The Sicklerville, New Jersey, native played 67 snaps and caught two passes for 15 yards.

"It seems like it's starting to come to life for him, so we moved him up with our regular offense the last couple of weeks, and he's been really consistent," McGee said. "He spends a lot of time in the meeting room. You can tell this is really important to him, and he's done a really good job."

Throughout the season, the Tar Heels have done a good job of coming away with points when venturing into the red zone. Nearly 91.67% of UNC's trips there have resulted in scores, the 24th best rank in the country.

But this past weekend's game against Syracuse highlighted the importance of finishing with touchdowns instead of field goals. UNC had two drives reach the Syracuse 9 yard line or closer before ending with three points.

It's an area of the field where "everything needs to be a little more perfect," according to Belichick.

"Less space, more guys. Everybody's closer to the line of scrimmage," he said. "It all happens faster. We just need to execute a little bit better."

You know about Jordan Shipp's receiving talents and on-field production. The junior from Charlotte led UNC a season ago with 60 receptions, 671 receiving yards and six touchdowns. This season, he's on pace to cruise past those receiving tallies, as he's already made 41 catches for 543 yards through seven games.

But the Tar Heel captain does it all at Carolina. Now a graduate student, he earned two undergraduate degrees — communication studies and exercise and sport science — in 2.5 years and was recently named a finalist for the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award, which recognizes leadership, integrity and sportsmanship.

Shipp earned the ACC Top Six for Service Award earlier this year and has been recognized for his work with UNC Children's Hospital, Habitat for Humanity and TABLE, a local food and nutrition nonprofit. He's also earned numerous academic accolades from the ACC and College Sports Communicators.

"He has mastered being a student-athlete," McGee said. "Of what it looks like to go to college as a high school kid. You get to college, and you're not just a football player that's in the football building all the time. You branch out. You're all over campus. You're at anything you can possibly do on campus. You have relationships with people that have nothing to do with the football program or even the athletics department."

N.C. 12 to reopen on Pea Island at 4 p.m. Thursday; Hatteras Island to welcome visitors with no entry restrictions

N.C. Highway 12 on Pea Island will reopen to traffic at 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29, with a temporary one-lane detour near the Pea Island Visitor Center, restoring highway access to Hatteras Island after a 10-day closure caused by a prolonged nor’easter.The reopening will also mark the end of visitor entry restrictions on Hatteras Island, according to Dare County. All traffic, including visitors, will be permitted to access the island beginning at 4 p.m. Thursday.Visitors planning to travel to Hatteras Island are encouraged ...

N.C. Highway 12 on Pea Island will reopen to traffic at 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29, with a temporary one-lane detour near the Pea Island Visitor Center, restoring highway access to Hatteras Island after a 10-day closure caused by a prolonged nor’easter.

The reopening will also mark the end of visitor entry restrictions on Hatteras Island, according to Dare County. All traffic, including visitors, will be permitted to access the island beginning at 4 p.m. Thursday.

Visitors planning to travel to Hatteras Island are encouraged to contact their accommodations providers to confirm their reservations.

According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), traffic will alternate one direction at a time through the temporary detour near the Pea Island Visitor Center. Motorists should expect delays and allow additional travel time.

The area will remain an active construction zone as NCDOT crews continue repairs and work to restore two fully paved travel lanes.

Motorists are urged to slow down, follow posted signs and instructions, and be prepared to stop and wait their turn to proceed through the one-lane section. Drivers should also maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and give construction crews room to work.

The highway has been closed between the Marc Basnight Bridge at Oregon Inlet and Rodanthe since the evening of Oct. 19, when a prolonged nor’easter caused extensive ocean overwash, dune erosion and roadway damage along the vulnerable stretch of highway.

Emergency ferry service between Rodanthe and Stumpy Point, which began operating Oct. 22 to provide transportation for residents, essential personnel and other authorized travelers during the highway closure, will continue through Friday morning.

The final emergency ferry departures from both Rodanthe and Stumpy Point are scheduled for 8 a.m. Friday, Oct. 30, according to NCDOT.

Thursday’s reopening comes after two major coastal storms damaged the same section of N.C. 12 in less than a month.

The first storm, in late September, washed out approximately 1,000 feet of roadway near the Pea Island Visitor Center, prompting a highway closure that lasted several days. A temporary one-lane detour opened Sept. 29, and two-lane traffic was restored Oct. 3.

Less than three weeks later, another prolonged nor’easter caused additional damage, forcing NCDOT to close the highway again.

NCDOT has not yet announced when two-lane traffic will be fully restored following the latest storm.

Motorists can monitor current highway conditions and updates at DriveNC.gov.

Six Wilmington-area beaches make Southern Living's top 10 in NC

What are the best beaches in NC, according to Southern Living? Six of the top 10 are within a short drive from Wilmington.Summer is out and cooler temperatures are in. This may mean the tourist season is slowing down, but for some locals, it's the best time of year to visit the beach.Southern Living recently compiled a list of North Carolina's 10 most beautiful beaches. The list is specifically geared toward the fall, which Southern Living said "provides a welcome respite from the sweltering heat at our very favorite North...

What are the best beaches in NC, according to Southern Living? Six of the top 10 are within a short drive from Wilmington.

Summer is out and cooler temperatures are in. This may mean the tourist season is slowing down, but for some locals, it's the best time of year to visit the beach.

Southern Living recently compiled a list of North Carolina's 10 most beautiful beaches. The list is specifically geared toward the fall, which Southern Living said "provides a welcome respite from the sweltering heat at our very favorite North Carolina beaches."

Out of the 10 beaches included on the list, six are located in the Wilmington area. Check out which beaches made Southern Living's cut.

Topsail Island

Topsail Beach and Surf City are a good bit farther of a drive from Wilmington, which is one reason these beaches offer a more lowkey experience. The ban on any high-rise development also helps the beach feel calm and quaint. The southernmost tip of the island, known as The Point, is a pristine beach now under state protection.

Wrightsville Beach

The closest beach to Wilmington, it's a popular spot for tourists and college students alike. Southern Living noted that Wrightsville Beach is known for watersports like surfing, as well as kayaking and paddleboarding in the Intracoastal Waterway.

Oak Island

Oak Island is one of six beach towns in Brunswick County -- two of which made the Southern Living list.

The magazine said that Oak Island is perfect for those looking for a family-friendly beach with a small-town feel. Oak Island's nearly 10 miles of beach front offers plenty of uncrowded space. The town also has a public, par-3 golf course, skate park, nature center and a pier.

Carolina Beach

It's not just the beach itself, but what's around it, that helped Carolina Beach score a place on the list.

Southern Living called the Carolina Beach Boardwalk "a classic American promenade," highlighting the restaurants, shops and attractions that line the way. Wilmington-area residents may not be surprised to hear that Britt's Donuts also got a shout out.

Bald Head Island

If you're looking for a remote destination, then Bald Head Island is for you. Reaching the island requires a ferry ride, and the majority of Bald Head is undeveloped. Visitors will find it especially uncrowded in the fall, which makes it a great time to explore the island's natural beauty.

Kure Beach

New Hanover County beaches went three-for-three on making the list. Kure Beach, which neighbors Carolina Beach, is the farthest from Wilmington itself. Southern Living highlighted activities such as the concerts and markets hosted at the Ocean Front Park and Pavilion, as well as the nearby Fort Fisher historical attractions.

Charlie Kingree is the Pender County and trending topics reporter for the StarNews. He can be reached at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Six Wilmington-area beaches make Southern Living's top 10 in NC

Reporting by Charlie Kingree, Wilmington StarNews / Wilmington StarNews

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Copyright Reuters or USA Today Network via Reuters Connect

Asheville weather: Sunny week ahead, rain possible Halloween weekend

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — If you’re a fan of sunshine and mild fall temperatures, you’re going to like this week’s forecast. But another stretch without rain isn’t exactly what parts of Western North Carolina need.The National Weather Service is calling for mostly sunny skies and temperatures in the 70s through Friday, with little chance of rain before the weekend.Monday will be sunny with a high near 72 degrees in Asheville after some early morning fog clears. Temperatures will drop to around...

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — If you’re a fan of sunshine and mild fall temperatures, you’re going to like this week’s forecast. But another stretch without rain isn’t exactly what parts of Western North Carolina need.

The National Weather Service is calling for mostly sunny skies and temperatures in the 70s through Friday, with little chance of rain before the weekend.

Monday will be sunny with a high near 72 degrees in Asheville after some early morning fog clears. Temperatures will drop to around 39 overnight.

Tuesday looks even warmer, with sunshine and a high near 74. Clouds will begin moving in Tuesday night, bringing slightly cooler weather Wednesday, when the high should reach around 70.

The sunshine returns Thursday and Friday, with highs near 74 and 76, respectively.

Overnight temperatures will generally dip into the upper 30s and lower 40s.

Recent rainfall has brought welcome relief to Western North Carolina, leaving much of the Asheville area and central mountains out of drought.

But not every part of the region has recovered. Some areas farther west are still dealing with abnormally dry conditions or drought, and another week without rain won’t help.

The National Weather Service says a stubborn area of high pressure is responsible for the sunny, dry weather. That pattern is expected to stick around through the end of the workweek.

A cold front could finally shake things up over the weekend, bringing more clouds and a chance of showers.

Saturday is Halloween, and the forecast gets a little less certain heading into the weekend.

The National Weather Service is calling for a high near 72 Saturday, with a 40% chance of showers Saturday night. Rain chances increase to 60% Sunday.

That means trick-or-treaters may want to keep an eye on the forecast, although it’s still too early to say exactly when showers might arrive.

For now, the workweek looks ideal for getting outside and enjoying the fall weather. And while the sunshine is welcome, parts of Western North Carolina could use another round of rain.

Disclaimer:

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

Invalid Phone Format

Please do not include the country code "1". Just enter your valid 10-digit phone number starting with the area code.