Murphy NC 28906

The Business Women of Murphy, in conjunction with the Cherokee County Recreation Department and Town of Murphy, are organizing a Fourth of July Hometown Celebration that will begin at 8:00 am with a 5K run and end with a spectacular fireworks display at 10:00 pm.

A dog show and parade, organized by Lisa DiCuffa, will take place downtown, followed by a kids “wheels and walking” parade and a float parade.

Other events will take place at Konehete Park, including a fishing tournament, field games, live music on two stages, a men’s softball tournament, car show, peanut drop, food booths, and, of course, the grand finale - a fireworks show.

The Business Women of Murphy are looking for corporate sponsors, crafters, and food vendors who would like to take part in this fun family event.

Crafters should call Linda Bamfield at 828-361-6848.

Food vendors should call Bonnie Kotchenreuther at 828-361-1027.

Scout troops, 4-H, or any organization or club that wants to march or have a float in the parade may call Linda Hurd, parade organizer, at 828-361-3707.

Anyone interested in participating in a “pick up” marching band and has his or her own instrument may call Hurd for details.

Contacts for other events include: 5K run: Jeff Keen at 828-835-7200; dog parade: Lisa DiCuffa at 828-361-6060; kids and float parade and car show: Linda Hurd at 828-837-3374; other general information: Marie Speigel at 828-835-8821.

Corporate sponsorships are available in the following increments: Stars and Stripes: $1,000, Firecracker: $500, Sparkler: $250. For more information, call Tammi Johnson at 828-361-6930.

The Cherokee County NC Chamber of Commerce is planning its first Fish Fry and Boat Show in hopes of “reeling in tourists and new chamber members,” chamber Executive Director Sande Kimball said.

The boating extravaganza is set for Saturday, June 23, 2007 at the TVA boat ramp in downtown Murphy, NC. Activities will spill over into the L&N Depot on Hiawassee Street.

The show will open at 10:00 am and end at 4:00 pm. There is no cost to attend.

Fish sandwiches, cole slaw, and a drink will be served between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm. The fish fry will be $6.00 per person.

The Longhouse Restaurant is doing the fish fry for this event to benefit the chamber.

Participating in the boat show so far are Smith Power, Nick’s Marine, High Country Canvas, and Appalachian Outfitters.

Some vendors will have boats in the water and will give demonstrations.

While in town for the boat show, Kimball said to be sure to walk into the historic downtown area of Murphy, where many businesses will be open, including a farmers market, gift and antique shops, restaurants, and more.

The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission will offer a hunter safety course from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm on Monday through Wednesday, March 6-8, 2006, at the Murphy Public Library.

Students must attend all three nights to become hunter safety certified.

The course is free and there is no minimum age limit to attend or pre-registration.

For more information, call wildlife officer Tim Lominac at 828-837-0388 or go to www.ncwildlife.org.