Don't FALL Behind on Home Maintenance It seems these days people fall into two categories: A) Those who are trying desperately to hold on to the last moments of summer and enjoying the heat and the longer days OR B) Those cheering the upcoming change of weather, the ones longing for cooler nights and pumpkin spice. Whether you fall into category A or B, it is important to remember that regardless of how you feel about it, fall and then winter are approaching, and your home needs to be ready to weather things. A little preparation now goes a long way later. So, here's our TOP EIGHT list for ways to prep your home for the months to come: CLEAN THOSE GUTTERS! Put on the gloves and get those leaves and debris out of your gutters and downspouts. This simple act helps prevent water from pooling on your roof and creating things like roof damage and wood rot. CLEAN YOUR ROOF. Speaking of roofs - get up there (or hire someone to do it if you aren't able) and check out its health. Yes, a roof needs an annual exam just like you! Identifying potential small damage now reduces your risk of large expensive repairs later. CHECK THAT CHIMNEY. We know there are months ahead before Santa has to make his trip down the chimney, but cleaning it now can help prevent harmful toxins from entering the air AND also reduces the risk of fires you don't want. DRAIN THE WATER HEATER. Did you know you should technically drain and flush your water heater annually? This prevents sediment buildup that can damage the unit. CHECK DOOR AND WINDOW SEALS. Now is the time to make sure the seals around your doors and windows are air tight and conserving the energy. This is important to keep that heat in when the nights are cold but also to keep you cool in the remaining warm days. CHECK THE DRYER VENT: While this doesn't necessarily fall into a specific seasonal maintenance period, it is a great idea to check the dryer vent in the fall when cooler temps cause moisture to condense on dryer walls. It's the perfect environment for lint buildup. CHANGE BATTERIES IN SMOKE ALARMS.  And while you're at it remember the carbon monoxide detectors. Setting this task as part of your larger task list ensures each year you remain protected from harm. CHANGE YOUR CEILING FAN DIRECTION. Simply changing the fan direction helps improve your home's comfort level and saves money. * In colder months, set your ceiling fan to spin clockwise. This creates an updraft that pushes warm air down away from the ceiling and into your room to keep you toasty! A final tip to consider is flushing your sprinkler system. Not everyone has a system in their yard, but if you do, it's a good idea to blow them out to prevent water from freezing and breaking pipes when the weather turns cold. Keeping a simple list like this and then completing tasks prior to the upcoming season helps you stay one step ahead of those pesky problems that can arise. So put on your gloves and grab this "TO DO" list. Come January, you'll be glad you did. CLICK HERE for a simple downloadable checklist version.

  Broad Strokes Gallery Grand Opening Vibrant. Unique. Local.   The Village of Oriental has long been known for its outstanding focus on the arts. The community supports local theater, live music, and visual arts, and this is one aspect that makes Pamlico County a great place to visit or to call home.When the former Village Gallery found itself looking for a new home, artists from the area joined forces with Pamlico Arts Council, and the concept of Broad Strokes Gallery was formed and brought to life. The re-imagined gallery recently opened its doors, and the new location is a treat for the Village of Oriental and its visitors.     Upon entering the building, you can see the love and attention to detail in every aspect of the gallery's interior. Members devoted their concepts as well as some serious sweat equity to the design and layout, which includes the art displays and the gorgeous checkout counter (pictured below), which is a piece of art in itself. The gallery is warm, welcoming, and easy to navigate, allowing your eyes to indulge in the beautiful surroundings.  The gallery members represent "a diverse group of talented artists, painters, sculptors, glass artists, mixed media artists, potters, ceramicists, photographers, wood crafters, and jewelry artists." ~broadstrokesgallery.weebly.com   With a vision of making art accessible to all, the gallery provides opportunities for both local members and consignment artists to exhibit and sell their fine art. Additionally, the gallery provides educational options for the community including classes and workshops, such as the upcoming Kumihimo Workshop on Saturday, September 7th.  If you haven't been yet, or you are visiting from out of town, be sure to make 730 Broad Street a destination. Plan some time to relax and enjoy the creations of our local artisans. You won't be disappointed.   Broad Strokes Gallery is open Thursday, Friday, and Sunday from 10-2 as well as Saturday from 10-5. Shop local; support the arts! *Featured artists Lyne Lassen, Pappy Khouri, Tom McElroy, and Ken Laser            

Spicing Things Up In Bayboro with Sazon de Abuela  Good things come to those who wait. Pamlico County has eagerly anticipated the opening of local restaurant Sazon de Abuela; social media buzz relayed delays due to permits and commented on the countdown to the opening date. Well, at last here we are, and the quaint, local Mexican restaurant does not disappoint. Upon entering, guests are warmly greeted by the staff. The ordering process is straightforward, and the only complication will be deciding which of the options suits your tastebuds that day.  The restaurant itself is casual, with both booth and table seating. The bright, colorful environment is inviting and clean. Don't be surprised to find the owner Mattias circling the dining area and engaging with customers. His kind, friendly welcome is a big part of what makes Sazon de Abuela special. Mattias is a veteran of the food industry and is passionate about bringing good quality, affordable choices to the area. Sazon de Abuela's menu features favorites like Arroz Con Pollo (ACP) alongside more traditional dishes like tamales and empanadas. The Mega Burrito is indeed MEGA - and filled with rice, beans, and your choice of meat. The restaurant offers Jarritos, a Mexican soda, in a variety of delicious flavors, as well as other options like Aqua Frescas. There are cheeseburgers and chicken nuggets on the Kid's Menu for the less adventurous eaters, and they also serve tacos with a variety of filling options. We left Sazon de Abuela with a smile on our faces and a full belly...all at an affordable price point. What more can you ask for? But don't just trust us; listen to what others are saying about it! "Everything we got was really good and the service was great as well! It will definitely be a regular place for us to visit now!" ~Alicia Wilson "So good! We stopped in for the first time and got tamales and tacos del lengua. Friendly staff, quick service, fair prices, great food. We'll be back." ~Lara Stewart Sazon de Abulea is open for business 7 days a week (YES, even Mondays) from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm and until 9:00 pm on Sundays. It is located at 13548 Main Street, Unit B in Bayboro. You can also call in an order for takeout at (252) 745-9093. To follow Sazon de Abulea on FB: https://bit.ly/SazondeAbuela 

Nestled on the Inner Banks of North Carolina, Oriental beckons with its serene beauty, coastal allure, and the warm embrace of small-town hospitality. Dubbed the "Sailing Capital of North Carolina," this picturesque town is a treasure trove of relaxation, adventure, and genuine Southern charm. Here's why Oriental, NC, is your next must-visit destination: A Haven for Sailing and Water Adventures Oriental's prime location on the Neuse River, with seamless access to the Pamlico Sound and the Atlantic Ocean, makes it a nautical paradise. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or looking for a tranquil escape on the water, Oriental offers an array of options. Rent a boat, kayak, or paddleboard to traverse the pristine waters, enjoy fishing expeditions, or marvel at the breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant hues.   The Quintessence of Small-Town Charm Walking through Oriental is like stepping into a storybook, where every street and corner exudes charm and warmth. The town's close-knit community welcomes all with open arms, offering a slice of Southern hospitality that's hard to find elsewhere. Explore quaint shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes, each adding to the unique character of Oriental.   A Symphony of Nature and Wildlife Oriental is a sanctuary for nature lovers. Surrounded by lush marshes, dense forests, and expansive waterways, it's a haven for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. From the majestic flights of bald eagles to the playful antics of river otters, Oriental's natural setting offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit.   Thriving on the Waterfront The waterfront lifestyle in Oriental is vibrant and full of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. With accolades from Our State magazine as a top East Coast sailing destination, the town thrives on water-based recreation. Kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, windsurfing, and fishing are just a taste of what awaits. The rich waters around Oriental also yield a bounty of seafood, celebrated in local restaurants and markets, offering fresh, succulent delights to satisfy any palate. Embracing an Active Lifestyle with a Relaxed Pace Oriental perfectly balances an active lifestyle with a relaxed atmosphere. The town is alive with annual events like the Oriental Boat Show, the Croaker Festival, and the Spirit of Christmas celebration, each reflecting the town's maritime heritage and vibrant community spirit. For cycling enthusiasts, Oriental's flat, scenic roads are a dream, highlighted by events such as the Annual Thanksgiving Turkey Pedal and the NC Cycle Coastal Ride. The Enchantment of Oriental's Days and Nights Oriental's natural beauty shines brightest during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, offering moments of pure tranquility. It's a place where the hustle and bustle of daily life fade away, replaced by the soothing sounds of nature and a leisurely coastal lifestyle. In essence, Oriental, NC, is a captivating blend of scenic beauty, rich maritime culture, and inviting community vibes. Whether you're drawn to the thrill of sailing, the peace of coastal retreats, or the warmth of a welcoming town, Oriental promises an escape that's both enriching and profoundly relaxing. It's not just a destination but a vibrant, living dream of coastal charm and adventure.