Fun Activities For Seniors In Murphy, NC and Cherokee County

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Local fun activities for seniors are as diverse as the folks who enjoy them. For starters, you’ll often find ladies and gentlemen enjoying biscuits or waffles at their favorite Murphy, NC breakfast eatery. Next, some seniors might hit the grocery store or make the rounds of the local thrift shops. Other residents browse through books and DVDs at the Murphy Public Library, while hobby fans stock up on supplies for their latest projects.

Seniors who prefer group activities also have some attractive options. Whether they engage in gentle exercise with like-minded workout buddies, or socialize with friends and neighbors at a favorite gathering spot, they can enjoy those pastimes right in their local community. Looking at the big picture, Cherokee County offers some enticing choices for every taste. Continue reading “Fun Activities For Seniors In Murphy, NC and Cherokee County” →

7 Energy Efficient Tips For Murphy, NC Homes

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As winter’s cold temperatures make your home a bit chilly inside, you’ve been cranking up the heat to keep your family warm. And because winter isn’t the best time for outdoor activities, everyone has been spending extra time watching shows and surfing on the computer.  Thus testing how energy efficient your home really is.

Your family’s increased power consumption often means a higher electric bill, and you’d like to begin reversing that trend right now. By making your Murphy, NC home more energy efficient, you’ll save money over the long term. As an added bonus, you’ll reduce the demand on your power generation company’s resources. To get the ball rolling, follow these simple strategies that contribute to positive results.

KEEP THE COLD AIR OUTSIDE

During our region’s colder months, you’re focused on keeping your home comfortably warm, without spending a fortune in the process. You’ve tried to be conservative with the heat pump, and maybe you’ve been running the gas fireplace as well. So, don’t allow subpar windows and/or doors to sabotage your efforts.

Button Up Your Drafty Windows. If your home’s windows have gaps larger than ⅛ inch, seal those leaks by placing adhesive-fitted closed-cell foam onto the window sash’s bottom. Or, tape bubblewrap over the entire window, creating a plastic barrier that’s surprisingly effective.

Seal Your Home’s Leaky Doors. To decrease cold air intrusion through your doors, apply foam strips on each door’s top and sides. To finish the job, place a door sweep on the bottom.

REDUCE YOUR HVAC AND LIGHTING BILLS

Keeping your home toasty warm in the winter, and pleasantly cool in the spring and summer, just makes life more enjoyable. And when you’re relaxing inside with your family, you create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with your interior lighting and accent lamps. However, your comfortable, well-lit home could be contributing to a higher electric bill. Fortunately, you can make several small changes that will help to get your electric expenses under control.

Fine-Tune the Climate Control System. To stay warmer during the winter, set your ceiling fans to rotate in a clockwise direction. Reversing the air flow helps to push warm air downward toward your living space. And while blades are stopped, wipe them down to eliminate any dust. Also, turning the thermostat down to 55 degrees at night will give your heat pump (and your budget) a break.

During the warmer months, minimize your air conditioning expenses by setting the thermostat at 78 degrees, especially when you’re away from home. Or, if it’s not excessively warm, run your ceiling fans instead to maximize air flow without placing demands on the heat pump.

Turn Down Your Light Consumption. To quickly and painlessly decrease your lighting costs, simply turn off the lights when you leave a room. If you’ve been leaving lights on when you’re away from home, consider putting them on easily managed timers.

In addition, consider trading your incandescent light bulbs for compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), the curly-shaped bulbs derived from tube-shaped fluorescent lights. An Energy Star-compliant CFL uses one-fourth the energy, and lasts ten times longer, than a similar incandescent bulb that emits the same amount of light. Although each CFL costs more than an incandescent bulb, you’ll typically recoup that cost in less than nine months,

DECREASE YOUR HOME’S POWER USAGE

Powering up your computer, TV, and household appliances is as easy as flipping a switch. When you’re finished, you hit the “Off” button and walk away, assuming that the device’s power consumption has stopped.

However, if each piece of equipment is still plugged in, it’s racking up charges on your electric meter. This “standby power” usage costs you more than you realize. In fact, standby power makes up 5 percent to 10 percent of residential energy usage, with the average American household shelling out $100 per year. However, here’s some good news: you can easily reduce your standby power consumption, which will translate into savings over time.

Use a Switch-Equipped Power Strip. Install a power strip with On/Off switches for your electronic devices and other equipment. In your living room, for example, use a power strip for the TV and DVD player. Place another power strip near your computer, printer, paper shredder, and desk lamp. By plugging all equipment into an adjacent power strip, and turning off the power strip switch when those devices are idle, you’ll stop their electrical power consumption.

Unplug Your Power-Consuming Products. By simply unplugging your household devices when they’re not needed, you guarantee that they won’t add to the electric bill. While you wouldn’t want to unplug the refrigerator or home alarm system, for example, consider using this tactic on the microwave or bread machine.

Run Full Loads in the Washer and Dishwasher. Washers and dishwashers are the epitome of convenience. Several times a week, you hit the “On” switch, and clean clothes, dishes, and flatware appear in a couple of hours. However, if you run your appliances without full loads, it reduces their efficiency and costs you considerable money.

First, let’s say you throw a few things into the washer, and choose the appliance’s “Small Load” setting. Surprisingly, the machine will use almost as much water and energy as a full load of clothes. By running full laundry loads rather than half loads, your household could save up to 3,400 gallons of water annually, according to the United States Department of Energy. Speaking of energy savings, running one large load of laundry saves you roughly 25 percent to 50 percent of the energy used by two small loads. Even better, these water and energy savings translate into extra cash for your family.

Use a similar strategy to operate the dishwasher more efficiently. Although one full load consumes more water and energy than a half load, that single large load uses considerably less water and energy compared to two half loads. So, consistently pack the dishwasher full, and you’ll gradually reduce your water and energy expenses over time.

With this easy-to-follow blueprint, you can make your Murphy, NC home more energy efficient. Over time, you’ll likely see a smaller electric bill, giving you extra cash for home projects and enjoyable family activities.

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – ilovemurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

County Courthouse Lantern Repairs Grab Residents’ and Visitors’ Attention

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Historic buildings are always good candidates for repairs and restorations. In cities and towns across the country, you’ll find workers shoring up sagging floors, replacing peeling paint, and even beefing up the building’s structure. However, here in Murphy, NC, the Cherokee County Courthouse recently received a rather unusual type of facelift.

Courthouse Lantern Removal & Repair

On the morning of Thursday, January 12, two huge hydraulic cranes lumbered into action on Murphy’s Peachtree Street, just outside the courthouse. Managed by Cannon Roofing Company, the cranes had a highly challenging task: remove the super-heavy copper lantern from atop the courthouse’s large dome. The word “lantern” is an architectural term, in this case referring to the ornamental structure that has topped the Cherokee County Courthouse since its 1926 construction.

First, a crane operator gently lowered the lantern’s dome to the street. Once workers examined the dome, they found that it was only secured by one solder joint, where up to eight joints had originally held it in place. In other words, the dome could have given way at any time, crashing onto the pedestrians and court patrons below. What had caused the joints to work themselves loose? Most likely, the dome’s waving American flag, followed by a copper American eagle, had created sufficient windage to negatively affect the dome’s structural integrity.

Next, an even larger crane plucked the much taller lantern from atop the building’s dome, and brought it safely to the ground. Constructed of eight 10-foot-high hollow copper Greek columns, the metal lantern is certainly a grand-looking structure. However, it’s also the subject of a mystery: the lantern is chock full of rifle bullet holes.

Cherokee County Courthouse’s Colorful History
The lantern repair’s unusual nature is the latest chapter in the courthouse’s unconventional history. In fact, the current building is the latest in a series of structures, the first of which was supposedly burned by Federal troops during the Civil War. Two more courthouses suffered the same fate, with the last one falling victim to fire in 1924.

In 1926, Cherokee County commissioners approved construction of the current courthouse. Designed by James J. Baldwin, and built with a veneer of imposing Blue Marble from nearby Marble (of course), the two-story Neo-Classical Revival-style courthouse easily commands your attention. Inside, the ground floor is home to numerous offices, while the expansive second-floor courtroom features finely crafted woodwork and plaster furnishings.

However, the Cherokee County Courthouse’s most dramatic feature is the two-story cupola that soars high above the entrance pavilion. Above the cupola’s lower stage, you’d normally see a striking large domed roof, topped by the lantern and smaller dome. With the lantern and small dome missing, though, the building looks strangely out of proportion.

What’s Next for the Lantern Repair Project
Of course, getting the lantern on the ground was only half the battle. To safely contain the cumbersome structure, Cannon Roofing workers had constructed a massive wooden box, which arrived atop a flatbed truck. After workers buttoned up the lantern for transport, the truck headed for Andrews-Murphy Airport, where skilled craftsmen would perform repairs inside an aircraft hangar.

Not surprisingly, fixing the 91-year-old copper lantern will be quite expensive. The Cherokee County government will soon issue a request for repair estimates, which should be the subject of much discussion around town. After the lantern repairs have been completed, workers will carefully reattach the copper eagle to the dome. Fittingly, this symbol of American liberty and freedom will soon resume its watch over downtown Murphy, NC.

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – ilovemurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

 

New Year’s Resolution #2 for Your Home: Improve the Air Quality

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As 2017 gets underway, you’re becoming well acquainted with New Year’s resolutions. Maybe you concocted a personal resolution (or two). Or, you decided to focus on getting your Murphy, NC house shipshape this year. If that’s the case, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get to work. First, let’s assume you’re taking steps to minimize your home’s hazards. That’s certainly a worthwhile way to spend your time and resources.

However, you might not realize that your home’s indoor air can also leave much to be desired. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency has designated indoor air quality as a primary environmental health hazard. Think about it: your home’s air contains dust, pollen, mold spores, and maybe even viruses. You’re especially at risk during the winter, when your doors and windows are tightly closed to keep out the cold. But here’s some good news: by adopting four easy-to-follow home maintenance strategies, you can greatly reduce dangerous lung irritants and improve your home’s air quality.

Keep Your HVAC System Maintained
Your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) System just seems to run itself. When you flip a switch or adjust the thermostat, the heat pump jumps into action and provides you with heated or cooled air on demand. In other words, you expect a lot from this essential home system.

Just like your car or truck, maintaining your HVAC system will help to protect this expensive piece of equipment – and might help to improve your home’s indoor air quality. So, change your system’s furnace and/or air conditioning filters regularly. In fact, during the peak heating and cooling months, change your filter every month. Stock up on filters so you can keep the preventive maintenance on track.

Use Adequate Ventilation Systems
When you cook up a batch of bacon, or fry some chicken for dinner, you don’t want to smell those leftover cooking fumes for hours. An above-the-stove range hood fan should vacuum up those smells and remove them from your kitchen. Next, quickly (and safely) dispose of the used bacon grease or cooking oil (but don’t wash it down the sink). Finally, wash or soak your frying pan and/or cooking pots so the smell of cooked food doesn’t linger in the house.

In the bathroom, install a powerful exhaust fan to remove unpleasant odors and unwelcome humidity. Ensure that the fan (and all ventilation systems) transport air to the outdoors – and not into your attic crawl space or gaps between ceiling joists. Note: If you aren’t comfortable installing the fan yourself, hire an experienced professional to complete the project.

Burn Real Firewood (not Synthetic Wood)
When you crank up your fireplace or wood stove, you look forward to soaking up the rustic ambience while you watch a show or enjoy a hot drink. Warming your toes would certainly be an added bonus.

Although you might be tempted to burn some super-convenient, low-debris pressed wood logs, make the decision to burn real firewood instead. By putting several nicely seasoned hardwood logs on the fire, you’ll avoid exposure to formaldehyde, a hazardous substance often found in synthetic wood products.

Stick to Low-VOC Interior Paints
If your remodeling plans include painting your home’s interior, plan to put low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints on your materials list. VOCs are harmful chemical substances emitted by varied gases and solids, including paints and lacquers. As you might expect, you should minimize your exposure to these nasty compounds, which have been linked to respiratory illnesses and memory problems.

To find low-VOC paints, browse the paint aisle in your local hardware and/or home improvement store. Chances are, you’ll see low-VOC products from several manufacturers. To make a better-informed buying decision, research your favorite brand’s paints before visiting the store.

Now that you have a plan to improve your Murphy, NC home’s indoor air quality, you’ve taken a step toward improving your family’s health. As an added bonus, you’ve also made your home a more pleasant place to live.

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – ilovemurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

New Year’s Resolution #1 for Your Home: Decrease the Hazards

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This time of year, the New Year’s resolutions are flying thick and fast. You’ve seen them all before. Lose weight, get your finances in order, and snag a better job. And while the resolutions are easy to make, they’re often much tougher to keep. So for 2017, why not switch gears and resolve to get your Murphy, NC house in better working order? If that grabs your attention, consider making resolutions that apply regardless of your home’s size or operating budget.

For starters, you certainly don’t want to live in a home filled with health and fire risks. To reduce your chances of a negative outcome, follow these five preventive strategies applicable to any home.

Detect the Carbon Monoxide: Your home’s smoke detectors can alert you to developing fire danger. To increase your protection factor, install a carbon monoxide detector on every floor that contains a bedroom. This affordable little device can alert you to a blocked or leaking furnace vent or chimney flue. Without this detector, either malfunction can cause carbon monoxide to collect in your house and kill you and your family.

Find the Radon: This odorless, colorless gas can trap radioactive particles in your lungs, potentially leading to the development of lung cancer. To learn if your home has elevated radon levels, buy an inexpensive test kit at your local hardware or home improvement store.

Reduce Potential Mold: If your bathroom and/or attic aren’t vented to the outdoors, you greatly increase your home’s chances of becoming a mold factory. If you can’t easily install the vent(s) yourself, hire a competent professional to do the job.

Dig Out All the Dryer Lint: Although you frequently clean the dryer lint trap, highly combustible lint can also collect in the ducts and vents behind the dryer. Clean these areas often to knock down the fire hazard.

Older Home Remodeling Reminder: If your home was built or remodeled before 1978, you could be living with asbestos flooring and/or lead paint. If that’s the case, and you have future remodeling plans, handle these harmful substances carefully when removing them. If you don’t feel comfortable doing the job yourself, hire a specialist who will bring the proper gear.

While some projects just require a one-time effort, plan to change your smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries on a regular basis. Develop a dryer lint removal schedule, too. By working to reduce your Murphy, NC home’s hazards, your house will be a healthier place for you and your family.

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – ilovemurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Deck Your Home with Natural Holiday Decorations

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‘Tis the season to decorate your home – inside and out – with brightly colored Christmas decorations. If dusting off last year’s leftover trimmings doesn’t sound exciting, and you’d rather not fork over money for new ones, why not let our beautiful mountains decorate your home this year?

Take a walk outside your Murphy, NC home, and you’re likely to find evergreens, pinecones, dried flowers, and more. Add some strategically placed fruit and craft items, and you’ve got the makings of stunning decorations your family and friends will enjoy. So put on your boots and grab a basket, and gather a bounty of natural materials just a few steps from your door. Then, create your decorations using the tips below – or put your imagination to work and design your own holiday trimmings.

HOLIDAY HOME DECOR
Door or Mantel Decoration: Create your own holiday swag by collecting a bundle of nicely textured brown twigs. Secure the twig ends with a wide rubber band that’s covered with a colorful ribbon. Add some holiday greenery by tucking one lush evergreen branch inside the rubber band.

Festive Wall Accents: To liven up your home’s bare walls, gather several beautiful evergreen boughs. Tack up a branch in each room, accenting your dining table, buffet, or other focal point. Add some color by hanging Christmas cards, glittery ornaments, and fancy gift tags on each fragrant green branch.

Indoor Woodland Display: Comb your garden and nearby woods for several unusual-looking bare branches. Fill a narrow glass vase with artificial snow, and create a branch arrangement that birds might find inviting. Add some tufts of snowy-looking cotton on the branches, and wire on colorful berries cut from faux flower sprays.

Next, wire a few realistic-looking cardinals onto your carefully placed branches. Create another desirable destination by placing a bird’s nest on the window sill. Rearrange your display several times during the winter.

FESTIVE TABLE TRIMMINGS
Colorful Tabletop Centerpiece: Place a striking beveled-edge mirror on your dining table. Arrange white or colored pillar candles on the mirror, adding pinecones and evergreens to provide contrasting color. Add clementines, red apples, or green pears as you wish.

Natural Forest Centerpiece: Choose a good-sized clear glass container. Gather pinecones, moss, seed pods, and other natural materials from the nearby forest. Find other dried floral items at a craft store or online. Beginning with the pinecones, layer your materials to create a pleasing multilayer centerpiece that adds an organic touch to your table.

Cranberry Candle Decor: Place a cranberry-colored candle inside a clear glass jar or cylinder. Carefully pack fresh cranberries around the candle, leaving room for the candle to burn safely. Spice up your table decoration by adding several sparkly Christmas ornaments around the container’s base.

Simply Beautiful Greenery: Bring out several differently sized glass vases. Fill each one with evergreen sprigs, varying the greens’ shapes and heights to create a pleasing collection of table accents.

CHRISTMAS TREE ORNAMENTS
Miniature Cranberry Wreaths: Give your tree some welcome red color with these easy-to-make cranberry wreaths. For each wreath, string 20-25 plump cranberries onto a section of floral wire. Shape the wire into a circle, tie it, and you’re ready to hang your mini-wreath on the tree.

See-through Ball Ornaments: Purchase affordable clear plastic ball ornaments at a craft shop or online. Gather miniature pinecones, small evergreen sprigs, and even colorful berries or seed pods from the nearby forest.

Carefully arrange the natural materials inside the bottom half of each ornament, and tack in place with hot glue if needed. Add the top half of the ornament, and make a colorful ribbon hanger for the tree.

Earthy Pinecone Ornaments: Gather a bowlful of impressive pinecones from the nearby woods. Tie each cone with a burlap ribbon. Use twine to string the pinecones together, and create a one-of-a-kind garland for your tree.

KID-FRIENDLY ORNAMENTS
Dried Fruit Tree Accents: If you have a dehydrator, get busy drying fruits that will retain their shape and color when thoroughly dry. Show kids how to string holiday ribbon or rustic-looking twine through each dried fruit. Ask your young helpers to trim the Christmas tree with their special holiday bangles.

Homemade Bark Christmas Stars: Take the kids on a bark-gathering trip through the woods. Select sections of bark from varied trees, and use glue to transform the bark pieces into star-shaped ornaments. Add a sturdy twine hanger to each one, and invite the kids to hang them in favorite spots on the tree.

Cinnamon Stalks Ornaments: Bind several cinnamon stalks together, and tuck in dried fruit for varied colors and textures. Add a natural-toned twine hanger. Ask kids to place their fragrant spiced ornaments in special spots on the tree.

With so many natural Christmas decorations, your biggest challenge is choosing the best ones for your Murphy, NC home. Once you select your favorites, begin gathering those materials, and watch your creations take shape. Chances are, you’ll enjoy the finished results so much you’ll plan an encore for next Christmas!

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.ilovemurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Our Mountains Provide a Great Backdrop for World-Class Motorcycle Touring

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Our mountains’ spectacular scenery offers more than just a great background for pictures. In fact, motorcycle riders have discovered that our region’s twisting mountain roads, lined by green forests and occasional waterfalls, make terrific touring territory. From spring through fall, you’ll see a steady flow of motorcyclists powering through Murphy, NC on their way to higher-elevation destinations. Two of these attractions have achieved legendary status, with riders often roaring in from other states to experience the once-in-a-lifetime rides.

Cherohala Skyway
This 41-mile-long scenic highway winds though the Nantahala National Forest and Cherokee National Forest. You’ll begin the memorable climb in Robbinsville, North Carolina, trekking up and over 18 miles of 5,400-foot-high peaks. Next, you’ll travel downward for 23 miles, passing through thickly forested Tennessee mountains before arriving in Tellico Plains, where you can get some gas and fortify your stomach. During the ride, take time to pull over and enjoy the spectacular views. The landscape’s spring greens and fall colors are especially photo-worthy.

Before you tackle the Cherohala Skyway, however, be forewarned: Except for a couple of restrooms, you won’t find any facilities along the route, so plan accordingly. Even during the summer, the high-elevation air can be chilly, so dress in layers to keep yourself comfortable. Finally, stay off the Cherohala Skyway during the winter, as you could suddenly encounter snow and/or ice that can create life-threatening conditions.

Tail of the Dragon (Deal’s Gap)
Believe it or not, we’ve got the United States’ Number 1 motorcycle road right in our backyard. With 318 curves in 11 miles, the Tail of the Dragon at Deal’s Gap is the stuff of motorcycle legend – and it’s all true.

Officially designated US 129, this high-octane stretch of road begins in North Carolina, adjacent to Cheoh Dam (or Fugitive Dam from The Fugitive movie). Bordered by the Cherokee National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains, this remote region contains multiple 5,000-foot-high peaks. Even more impressive, 16 mountains are over 6,000 feet high. In other words, living (and riding) here has many built-in challenges.

During the ride, you won’t find any intersecting roads, businesses, or homes with driveways. Instead, you’ll encounter curves – lots and lots of curves. Each curve is different, and some are actually banked like a race track. You’ll also find super-tight turns, switchbacks, and dramatic drop-offs – one after another. Taken as a whole, this road resembles the tail of a rather agitated dragon – hence the name. Fortunately, the road is generally in good shape, as maintaining this well-known tourist attraction has become a high priority. When you finally escape the dragon’s tail at Tennessee’s Tabcat Creek Bridge, you’ll be ready for a cold drink and some lunch.

Of course, every road contains a few extra surprises for those who travel it. First, you might encounter deer, turkeys, bears, and even wild boars at any time. Fallen trees can also present a serious danger. Although North Carolina and Tennessee have banned 18-wheelers from this hazardous road, you could meet one on a curve – driving in your lane. Finally, stay off the Tail of the Dragon in winter, as it’s highly unpredictable and not worth the risk.

Cherokee County Loop
For a 50-mile round trip that’s entirely within Cherokee County, head out of Murphy, NC on Joe Brown Highway. As you cruise through scenic forests and lowlands, you’ll pass the Hanging Dog, Unaka, and Hiwassee Dam communities. You’ll also travel along beautiful Hiwassee Lake, eventually arriving at the TVA’s impressive Hiwassee Dam. Take time to relax and soak up the view. Then, hop back on your bike and return to downtown Murphy.

Get Yourself Home Safe and Sound
To increase the chances of getting yourself home in one piece, leave the daredevil tricks at home (especially on the Tail of the Dragon). Don’t attempt to ride beyond your skill level, and keep a sharp lookout for road hazards and other drivers’ antics. In other words, be ready for anything. Finally, wear heavy-duty protective gear (including a full-face helmet), just to stack the odds in your favor.

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.ilovemurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Hit Our Miles of Beautiful Mountain Trails on Horseback

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Horseback riding is probably one of the best “two-fer” experiences around. First, you get outside in our gorgeous corner of the world, poking around wooded trails and soaking up our mountain air. At the same time, you get friendly with your horse, whether you’re on a two-hour trail ride or you’re meandering along with your own equine buddy. If you’re itching to saddle up and ride, we’ve got a riding stable in Cherokee County, just a few miles from Murphy, NC. You’ll find two more horseback riding operations within easy driving distance.

Horseshoe Creek Riding Stables, 1386 Stewart Road, Andrews, NC. 828-321-2376. This multi-purpose riding facility operates seven days a week. Enjoy guided trail rides ranging from one to five hours in length, visiting familiar destinations including Tatham Gap and the Trail of Tears. For maximum enjoyment, bring a picnic lunch and camera.

For a different type of riding adventure, take a covered wagon tour on several of the same area trails. Schedule a private or group ride, with a 10-person maximum (8 in the wagon and 2 on horses). Please note: For both activities, helmets are required for children 18 and younger, and are available for adult riders.

Finally, Horseshoe Creek offers basic riding and horse care lessons, along with horse training. And by booking a riding adventure here, you’ll support the stables’ admirable horse rescue efforts. For more than 50 years, the facility has given down-on-their-luck horses a new lease on life, making them a valued part of the local equine community.

Chunky Gal Stables, 1306 Hot House Road, Hayesville, NC. 828-389-4175.
Over in nearby Clay County (Hayesville, to be exact), you’ll find Chunky Gal Stables, named for adjacent Chunky Gal Mountain from an old Cherokee Indian story.

Open seven days a week, this full-service riding facility offers one- to four-hour guided trail rides through the Nantahala National Forest. Whether you’re an experienced rider, or this is your first time on a horse, they’re happy to accommodate your needs. Children are also welcome, but please mention the kids’ ages when making your reservations. Double riding (for parent and younger child) is allowed. And yes, reservations are strongly recommended.

Maybe you’ve been bitten by the riding bug, and you’d enjoy some in-depth lessons. Chunky Gal Stables offers Western-style riding lessons for individuals and groups of all experience levels. Finally, if your own horse needs some training, these helpful folks also provide that service.

A Step Above Stables, 696 Mauney Circle, Blairsville, GA. 706-745-9051.
Finally, head over to A Step Above Stables in Blairsville, Georgia, about a half-hour from Murphy, NC. These full-service stables operate year-round, and design guided one- to two-hour trail rides for riders of all levels. Even better, this facility specializes in horses for beginning riders, which most likely will increase your comfort level.

If you’re lucky enough to have your own horse, A Step Above Stables also offers first-class boarding facilities. They’ll provide a tailored feeding program for your younger horse to your equine senior citizen, and have an on-site farrier and trainer. In other words, your horse will live in the lap of luxury.

Now that you’re ready to hit the trails, here are several tips on dressing for the occasion. First, wear comfortable clothes so you can enjoy the ride. Long pants will keep your legs from getting scratched up when you ride through the brush, and closed-toe shoes offer protection for your feet. Finally, because our weather can be unpredictable, prepare yourself for cool, warm, or wet conditions. So, now that you’ve gotten the details ironed out, saddle up and get yourself on the trails!

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.ilovemurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Cherokee County Recreational Parks Offer Lots of Family-Friendly Activities

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When you want to spend some time in the great outdoors – or just want to blow off some steam – Cherokee County’s two recreational parks are just a short drive away. In fact, if you’re in downtown Murphy, NC or nearby Andrews, they’re right around the corner. When you arrive at the park, take an energizing jog through the grounds, enjoy a game of tennis, or nosh on picnic food with your family or friends. Depending on the season, you might catch a soccer or baseball game, or even a community festival. So grab a cold drink and some sunscreen, and enjoy some welcome downtime in a local park.

Murphy Recreation Park (Konehete Park)
Operated by the Cherokee County Recreation Department, Konehete Park fronts the scenic Valley River in Murphy. Come enjoy a picnic anytime, or let the kids burn off some energy on the playground equipment. Konehete Park also contains three convenient pavilions, which you can reserve for parties or other get-togethers (Note: There is a 2 1/2-hour time limit for pavilion use). And speaking of big parties, Konehete Park also plays host to several Cherokee County festivals, such as the Kids’ Fair and July 4th celebrations.

If you’re a tennis enthusiast, take advantage of Konehete Park’s four lighted courts. If team tennis brings out your best game, or you’d like to learn this popular sport, contact the Cherokee County Recreation Department for details. During the conversation, ask about pickleball, a hot new game that recently made its debut in Murphy.

Or, get acquainted with slacklining, an addictive new sport that involves balancing (and walking) on a low-to-the-ground flexible tightrope. If this sounds intriguing, head down to Murphy Slackers’ slackline park, behind Konehete Park’s last baseball field at the River Walk ending point. In fact, take the kids along, as they’ll probably enjoy slacklining as well. Check out Murphy Slackers’ Facebook page for a list of seasonal activities.

If a cool swim or a fitness class sounds appealing, Konehete Park is just a stone’s throw from the Hiwassee Valley Pool and Wellness Center. Purchase an affordable day pass, or consider a membership for yourself and/or your family.

Andrews Recreation Parks
Next, travel about 15 miles northeast of Murphy on Highway 19/129 (also called the four-lane). Before reaching Andrews, North Carolina, you’ll pass some of the most stunning mountain scenery you’ve ever seen – so pull over and get some pictures.

After arriving in Andrews, travel on Main Street before turning left onto Park Street, and follow to the Andrews Recreation Parks. This 70-acre complex contains an entire wish list of recreational facilities. Enjoy the swimming pool, skate park, ball and soccer fields, and tennis and basketball courts. For a change of pace, hike the walking trails before enjoying a picnic lunch or grilling burgers and hot dogs. Afterward, let the kids enjoy the playground while you relax with a cold drink.

Maybe you and your family would enjoy playing team sports. Adult leagues include men’s softball, church league softball, flag football, women’s or coed volleyball, tennis, or table tennis. The younger set might enjoy ball field sports such as youth softball, Little League ball, tee-ball, and machine pitch. Youth football, basketball, and volleyball are also popular in season.

With all these recreational options in Murphy, NC and Andrews, NC, you can enjoy the great outdoors right in your own community. So put on comfortable clothes, grab some cold water, and find an activity you enjoy. We just might see you out there!

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.ilovemurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team

Cherokee County Farmer’s Markets Deliver Freshness and Local Flavor

Posted by murphylover on

Shopping at a local farmer’s market gets you up close and personal with your produce. Depending on the season, you might be strolling past tables of lettuce, beans, tomatoes, squash, or even strawberries and blueberries. At some markets, you’ll also find diverse handcrafted items, such as jewelry and handmade soaps. By shopping at the market, you’re supporting local farmers and other community members. Choose from four farmer’s markets within Cherokee County, one right in downtown Murphy, NC. You’ll find two more markets within easy driving distance.

 

SATURDAY
Cedar Valley Farmer’s Market: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Historic L&N Depot in Murphy
2016 Market Season: April 2 to October 29
Start your Saturday farmer’s market tour at the Cedar Valley Farmer’s Market. This popular market operates at the historic L&N Depot, just down the hill from downtown Murphy’s central intersection. Pick a parking spot on Hiwassee Street, and look for the colorful vendor canopies next to the Depot building. Chat with the vendors while you browse locally grown produce, sometimes so fresh that it was picked that morning. Besides homegrown vegetables and fruits, you might find goat cheese, eggs, canned jams and salsas, handcrafted soaps, woodcarvings, jewelry, and more.

Mountain Folk Center Farmer’s Market: 8 a.m. to Noon (rain or shine)
Location: 9275 US Highway 64 West (9 miles west of downtown Murphy)
Hint: Travel 3 miles past the 19/129 intersection, and look for the signs.
2016 Market Season: June through August
This relatively new farmer’s market has a growing clientele, and its undercover location means you can visit rain or shine. You’ll find locally grown vegetables and fruit, along with enticing baked goods, handcrafted soaps, and other artisan-made items.

Andrews Farmer’s Market: 8 a.m. to Noon
Location: Harold H. Hall Memorial Park in downtown Andrews
2016 Market Season: June thru August
This growing farmer’s market features delectable produce from nearby farms, along with handmade crafts from local artisans. While you’re there, take time to enjoy the gorgeous mountain views.

WEDNESDAY
Brasstown Farmer’s Market: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: 10956 Old Highway 64 (across from The Shops of Brasstown)
2016 Market Season: May 29th – December
Right in the heart of Brasstown (a real-life “blink and you’ll miss it” spot), you’ll find the Shops of Brasstown, a charming enclave of stores featuring fine crafts, custom pool tables, and professional massages. Walk across the two-lane street, and you’ll arrive at the Brasstown Farmer’s Market. Enjoy fresh produce and flowers in season, artisan baked goods, and a changing selection of other items.

MORE NEARBY FARMER’S MARKETS

THURSDAY
Hayesville Evening Market: 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Location: Hayesville Town Square (Hayesville, NC)
2016 Market Season: May through October
This Thursday evening market has turned into a real “must visit” destination. Browse the fresh produce, farm products, baked goods, handcrafted soaps, and diverse crafts while you listen to live music. You might even run into your friends and neighbors, allowing you to share the latest local news.

SATURDAY 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and TUESDAY 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Union County Farmer’s Market (Blairsville, GA)
Location: 148 Old Smokey Road (off Route 515 near Home Depot)
2016 Market Season: June 4 through October 29 (weekly special events)
This undercover farmer’s market features a wide selection of vendors. On any given day, you’ll find seasonal produce and other farm products. You might also encounter baked goods, flowers, handcrafted soaps, and a good variety of crafts.

This larger farmer’s market holds weekly Saturday themed events (plus a few Tuesday afternoon dates). Saturday events include Sweet Corn Day, Watermelon Day, Johnny Appleseed Day, and A Salute to Farmers/Tractor Parade. Tuesday afternoon events include a Homemade Ice Cream Social, a Farm-to-Table Salsa Tasting, and a Simply Soup Night.

All these enticing farmer’s markets, several within a stone’s throw of downtown Murphy, NC, provide a great opportunity to support your local farmers and artisans. So gather your tote bags, pile your family or friends into the car, and get ready to enjoy a feast for all the senses!

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.ilovemurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team