Our Katie gets her picture sketched by a local artist.

Happy Labor Day weekend! Labor Day always proves to be a wonderful weekend for relaxation, family, fun, and The Heritage Walk in Murphy NC! It is sponsored by the Heritage Partners and is the perfect opportunity to see some of Murphy’s very unique history. Our very own Mayor, Bill Hughes, is one of the tour guides who shows off Murphy NC’s past. Some of the things you get to see is the Fort Butler site, the “Pyramid,” the Harshaw Chapel, and our beautiful River Walk.

Downtown and Konaheeta Park is full of vendors and things for you and the family to do. There are face painters, horse back rides, local artists, tractors, you name it! It’s the perfect opportunity to take your family and enjoy Murphy.

John Poltrock – The Poltrock Team – www.MyMurphy.com – JohnPoltrock@gmail.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-687-7496 – REMAX of Murphy NC

Gardens are a large part of Appalachian culture. Families have grown large gardens for generations because the mountains are not known for enormous farms like much of the South, but more subsistence style farming. Gardens continue that tradition today.

No longer out of need in most cases, folks plant their own gardens and enjoy the fruits of their labor with fresh vegetables and even some fruits. Most common here in the mountains of Murphy NC are your typical suspects such as corn, beans, cabbage, squash, tomatoes, zucchini, carrots, blackberries, apples, and much more. According to the North Carolina Extension Office, our average growing season here in the Murphy and Andrews area is 159 days, giving you the perfect opportunity to grow lots of goodies

Things link canning, freezing, drying, and much more are ways you can enjoy fresh vegetables are year around. The wonderful thing about real estate in the mountains that if you want to have your own garden, we can help you find a home that has the perfect place to grow your own garden! Just let us know its something you want to do, and we’ll take care of the rest!

If you would like more information on gardening in the mountains of Murphy and Andrews, you can call our local NC Extension Office at 828-837-2917. The folks there are a tremendous help!

The Poltrock Team – REMAX of Murphy NC – www.MyMurphy.com – JohnPoltrock@gmail.com – Contact us Toll Free Today at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496

It’s almost here! Toastmasters is close to having a club right here in Murphy NC! We are working to build our 20 required initial members and then we will be official.

When: Monday nights at 6:30
Where: currently at RBC Bank in downtown
Who: Call me if you’re interested and I can give you more details

We currently have around ten people regularly coming, and after a few meetings, that’s really good! We hope you’ll come join!

What is Toastmasters? It is an organization that helps people become better leaders and speakers. It helps build confidence, know-how, networking, and so much more. Check out www.toastmasters.org to learn much, much more.

John Poltrock – The Poltrock Team – www.MyMurphy.com – Call Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – JohnPoltrock@gmail.com

Mountain View Marina - Courtesy their Facebook Page

Now that Lake Hiwassee is full of water and the weather in Murphy NC is really getting nice and warm, now is the time to be enjoying the lake! To help with that, we are fortunate to have several good boat marinas here in Murphy. Most of them are smaller, local family operations – which makes them a great place to do business!

Be sure to click the link on the name of the marina as we put more information available on them.

• Duke’s Marina – 828-835-3332 – Located in Hanging Dog off of Joe Brown Highway, you’ll find Duke’s after you go a little ways past the Hanging Dog Forest Service Campground and Boat Ramp. They offer a boat launch, fuel, pontoon boat rentals, fishing supplies, slips, and more.
• Shook’s Marina – 828-837-2863 – Located in the Unaka area of Hanging Dog, Shook’s offers boat slips, boat rentals, gas, food, fishing supplies, and more.
• Mountain View Marina (in Bear Paw Resort) – 828-644-5451 – this nice marina is situated right in the heart of Bear Paw in the Hiwassee Dam Community of Murphy (west side of Lake Hiwassee). They offer boat rentals, slips, fuel, a marina store, and more.
• Harbor Cove Marina – 828-644-0661 - Located just before you get to Bear Paw in Hiwassee Dam. They have slips, fuel, and more.

Love Lake Hiwassee and want to find real estate in the mountains of Murphy NC? Search our Listings for sale and Contact Us Today!

The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – www.MyMurphy.com – JohnPoltrock@gmail.com – Call Toll Free 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496

Every year, the Folk School Designs a Banner - this is 2009's!

Every year, the John C Campbell Folk School in Brasstown NC welcomes thousands of people from all over the United States to their annual Fall Festival – and this year’s was great! There were lots of vendors and artists who brought their talent and crafts for sale at the hundreds of vendor tents.

Not only that, there was authentic local music, dancing, and so much more. They hold all the music at the large barn and its always packed slam full of folks who are there to enjoy all the local talent. This year had choirs, bluegrass music, tap dancing, and everything else you can think of in between.

Just a Few Vendors and Artists

This Festival is not only for the adult – kids love it too! There are all sorts of things for the children to do – horse back riding, alpacas to pet, toys to find and buy, friends to see, and so much more!

Last year’s Folk School Festival was a lot of fun too, and as always, we can’t wait to enjoy the upcoming one in 2010!

Written by John Poltrock, Certified Residential Specialist – The POLTROCK TEAM at RE/MAX Mountain Properties – www.MyMurphy.com – Call us Toll Free – 1-866-687-7496 – JohnPoltrock@gmail.com

Katie & Friend Pet the Alpacas

Learning to Shoot Bow and Arrows in Murphy NC

This Saturday was an absolute blast! More than 600 kids in the Murphy, North Carolina area met in the Martins Creek / Brasstown area to enjoy one major event – the Scott Hogsed Memorial Youth Day.

Katie Practicing Fly Fishing

Every year for the past four or five years, Scott Hogsed Memorial Day has been orchestrated in August by Mr. Sam Hogsed for the sole purpose of educating kids on the outdoor sports. There were groups of classes on everything from fly fishing, rope bridges, bow and arrow shooting, BB gun shooting, and so much more.

Boy Scouts in Murphy Sponsored Rope Bridge

To top it off, every kid that comes gets a gift bag full of goodies and a FREE fishing rod! At the end, they even give away more things such as a bow, gun, all sorts of things with the sole purpose to entice children to get outside and enjoy all the thing nature offers here in Murphy NC.

If you didn’t make it this year, be sure to come! The kids always have a good time and word of advice: bring yard chairs and some water so you can sit down and enjoy the shade while the children are out running around. See you next year!

John Poltrock – The POLTROCK TEAM at RE/MAX Mountain Properties – www.MyMurphy.com – JohnPoltrock@gmail.com – Call us toll-free 1-866-687-7496

Fall is in the air!  You can most defiantly tell with the trees starting to turn in the higher elevations, cool crisp mornings and to die for evenings.  I think Fall is my favorite time of the year. Pumpkins, mums, pansies, Halloween, trees and festivals are just a few reason why.  If you check out the mountains in the Fall you will need to bring a light weight coat or sweater.  Jeans or shorts are fine and short sleeves are great during the day.  Temperatures range from 50′s in the morning and low 80′s to mid 70′s during the day.  Make sure you bring some walking shoes or boots because you will most defiantly want to take a walk…it is so beautiful in the Blue Ridge / Smokey Mountains! We love going to all the festivals in the area and surround counties.

Here are some of the best festivals that you need to check out when you come to Murphy, North Carolina in the Fall.

17-20th

54th Annual Macon County Fair. Macon County Fair Grounds, Hwy 441S. Contact 828-524-3267. Franklin North Carolina

27
Kid’s Fair -Murphy, NC
Will be held in the Konehete Park from 10 am-2pm. For more information call Jill Thistle at Family Resources: 828-837-3460.

October

4-5
35th Annual Fall Festival -Murphy, NC
Held at the John C. Campbell Folk School from 10 am-5pm at the school campus. Featuring the craft of 200 craftspeople, continuous music and dance performances on two stages of old time, bluegrass, folk, and gospel styles. More than 40 craft-making demonstrations including a Mountain Life area, food, kid’s activities and much more. 828-837-2775, 800-365-5724 or www.folkschool.org

10-12
Jeep Jamboree
Will be held in Murphy. Registration will be held at the Rock Gym Thursday evening. Friday dinner will be catered by the Foster Sisters at their new barn facility. Saturday dinner will be at the John C. Campbell Folk School. Visit their website: www.jeepjamboreeusa.com

10-19th
Fall Festival – Georgia Mountain Fair

1311 Music Hall Rd.
Hiawassee, GA30546
Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Contact: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Phone: 706-896-4191
Email: gamtfair@alltel.net
Website: www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com
Cost: $9.00 per person – Children under 10 free
Description: With its mild temperatures and beautiful scenery there is no better place to be than the North Georgia Mountains in the fall. Each October, the 10-day event features exciting musical performances, educational demonstrations, a flower show and the ever-popular Georgia’s Official State Fiddlers’ Convention. Parking $2.00

16-18th

16th Annual Smoky Mountain Art & Craft Fest will be held from 10am to 5pm daily at the Macon County Fair Grounds/Franklin, NC – featuring 80 of the finest and most unique Artisans ; live music; great food & over 100 free door prizes donated by the Artists and Crafters. Contact Laurie Keneipp for additional information at 828-524-6630.

11-19

Sorghum Festival At Meeks Park-Blaisville, GA

Time: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Event Description

Sunday, Oct. 19th,  9:00a.m. - 5:00p.m. Sorghum Events

24-25

12th Annual Pumpkin Fest – Franklin – Hayrides from East Franklin Shopping Center from 3pm – 6pm, After School Treats for the kids in East Franklin Shopping Center from 3pm – 5pm. Saturday, 10/25 Street festival along Main Street with crafters, Famous Pumpkin Roll, Live Music all day, Pie Eating Contest, Games, Costume Contest and Parade along with Food. 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sponsored by the Town of Franklin, Franklin Main Street Program and Franklin Tourism Development Committee. Contact 828-524-0476.

Here are some of the more popular Fall Festivals in and around the neighboring counties!  I got the info from the county commerce sites.  There are more activities located on the sites…you should check them out if you are going to be in the area. The county commerce sites are so helpful and loaded with information!

Cherokee County- Murphy, Andrews and Brasstown

www.cherokeecountychamber.com/calendarevents.lasso

Union County- Blairsville GA

www.blairsvillechamber.com/Events.html

Towns County- Hiawassee and Young Harris GA

www.mountaintopga.com/calendar_of_events.asp

Macon County- Franklin NC

www.franklin-chamber.com/visitorInformation/eventsCalendar.asp#sep

September

]]> http://ilovemurphy.com/2009/08/09/fall-is-the-time-for-food-fun-frolicking-and-real-estate/feed/ 0 http://ilovemurphy.com/2009/06/22/john-c-campbell-folk-school-in-brasstown-nc-is-a-great-place-to-learn-just-about-anything/ http://ilovemurphy.com/2009/06/22/john-c-campbell-folk-school-in-brasstown-nc-is-a-great-place-to-learn-just-about-anything/#comments Mon, 22 Jun 2009 22:06:36 +0000 johnpoltrock http://poltrock.realty-buzz.com/?p=538

It’s not always just about real estate, it’s about the natural beauty of a place and the things there are to do there. The John C. Campbell Folk School is an excellent combination of both.

In the mountains of Brasstown, North Carolina, a school exists with the motto, “I sing behind the plow.” The school is John C. Campbell Folk School and the skills that are taught here are so expansive that one is sure to be right up your alley.   From the art of writing, to basketry, the choices of over 860 classes held both weekdays and weekends are for the amateurs and the proficient alike. This is a unique vacation unlike any other and the creative side of you will be drawn out by the expertise of the instructors. Small classes and interactive learning in a passive atmosphere will be an experience you will enjoy in an area of tremendous scenic beauty that only a place like Brasstown, NC has to offer.

Resident artists and a staff that is dedicated to allowing you the chance to explore your inner artist help to keep the John C. Campbell Folk School a great learning environment. The Folk School welcomes you to the area and the wide array of skills you can learn while you are visiting. The classes are small so the instructors have one on one time with those wishing to learn a new skill or polish up on one they learned several years ago.

The studios are all about the learning experience – the choices you have are practically endless:.

* Blacksmith
* Clay
* Cooking
* Enameling/hot glass

A few of the selections you will have are highlighted here, but this is only a sampling of the fun and creative time you can have when you visit the John C. Campbell Folk School.

The Rock Room

Enjoy this studio with rock covered walls that blends in with the nature of the North Carolina hills. The windows are plentiful and the openness of the space for basket, chair seat and broom classes are what make the Rock Room a studio that you will enjoy working in while learning these skills.

Woodcarving Studio

Here is the epitome of the rustic and picturesque buildings of old. The saw mill nearby and the porch for enjoying the mountain air make this building the perfect spot for woodcarving. The carvers can make whatever their hearts desire from a cowboy to a mythical wood spirit.

Music Studio

The splendid view surrounding the Music Studio seems to be just made for the enjoyment of music. From the mountain dulcimer to the Native American flute, the classes held in this beautiful studio which boasts a fireplace are available for all levels – the beginning musician to the experienced.

Enameling/Hot Glass Studio

With the joining of metal to glass, the possible projects are endless. Jewelry, home décor and art are all taught in this studio. Work on an art project that will inspire the free form artist in you – a three dimensional project made of copper or a stained glass technique. Whatever you choose will be a personal work of art you will enjoy making.

Cooking Studio

If you love to cook or just want to learn how this is a culinary dream come true. The huge selection of appliances with which you will have to work are going to ensure you will come up with a wonderful dish or two. From the wood-fired brick oven to the pasta maker, you can learn the basics of cooking or dream up a real masterpiece.
 
The John C. Campbell Folk School will certainly be a sure hit within your home, whether it is here in North Carolina or out of state, and may very possibly be a place for return visits in the future.

You can learn more about the folk school including class list and more at their official website: www.folkschool.org

Searching for Real Estate in Brasstown NC Near the Folkschool or Close By? CLICK HERE and we’ll send you the listings that fit what YOU are looking for!

John Poltrock – The Poltrock Team at REMAX Mountain Properties – www.MyMurphy.com – Call Toll Free 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496

Find out about the 2009 Fall Festival at the Folk School

Hanging Dog Campground Entrance off of Joe Brown

Murphy, North Carolina is known for its natural beauty and resources, and the US Forest Service maintains an excellent facility in Hanging Dog. The Nantahala National Forest has camping sites set up and ready, bath facilities, two public boat ramps on Lake Hiwassee, group picnic shelter, bike riding, trail heads, and much more.

Because it is maintained by the US Forest Service, all of the resources available here are either free or quite inexpensive. The facilities are in excellent shape! You can find more information from the local Ranger District. You can find out more from them at:

Hanging Dog Picnic Area

Hanging Dog Campground Facilities

John Poltrock, Certified Residential Specialist – www.MyMurphy.com – JohnPoltrock@gmail.com – Call The POLTROCK TEAM at RE/MAX Mountain Properties today at 877-837-3002

Cool weather, falling leaves, and festivals means it is October and that Fall is in full swing here in Murphy, North Carolina!

Last weekend we went to the John C Campbell Folk School‘s Fall Festival here in Murphy, NC / Brasstown, NC. It was perfect weather! Despite gas shortages throughout much of the southeast, 1,000′s of people made their way to come visit the festivities that were wide open all weekend.

Jessica, Katie, and I had a great time walking around, visiting all the different booths, the live music, riding horses (well, Katie did!), eating, and seeing tons of people we haven’t seen in a while! The best part is seeing the truly talented vendors selling everything from their soaps, trinkets, and my personal favorite, photographs.

This year’s Fall Festival was great and we look forward to next year’s!

John Poltrock – The POLTROCK TEAM – www.mymurphy.com – JohnPoltrock@gmail.com – Call Toll Free 1-866-687-7496