Clay County Sheriff Mark Buchanan Cruises Back Into Office

Voters showed strong support to keep experienced leadership in place for public safety, reliable 911 response, and community programs across Hayesville and neighboring towns.

Fannin County Schools Celebrate Higher Scores and State Championship

The district rose above the state average with solid regional rankings, and the high school Teamworks squad just won the SkillsUSA Georgia State Championship and is heading to nationals.

John C. Campbell Folk School Online Auction Running Now

Bid on beautiful handmade crafts, pottery, quilts, and more through March 13th and support local arts education right here in Brasstown.

Zoom Thursdays Storytelling Series Starts Tomorrow

Free virtual gatherings on March twelfth, nineteenth, and twenty-sixth give neighbors across Cherokee County an easy way to connect, share stories, swap recipes, and hear from local elders.

Sources:

* 2026-03-05 | https://www.claycountyprogress.com/local-newsletter/buchanan-cruises-back-sheriffs-role

* 2026-03-05 | https://www.fannin.k12.ga.us/our-district/our-superintendent/superintendents-news

* 2026-03-02 | https://www.folkschool.org/events/online-auction/

* 2026-03-10 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/events/spotlight-events-306

Where to listen

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Notes, methods, and rights

This Appalachia Daily Update was created with the help of AI tools working alongside a human editor. All information is drawn from publicly available sources listed above. Rights for the Appalachia Daily Update are reserved by River Run Digital, which produces hyperlocal news for small towns across Appalachia and beyond. To learn more about River Run Digital and its local news projects, visit

https://go.riverrun.digital

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adu.riverrun.digital

Hayesville Library Hosts Free Teen Movie Night Tonight

The Moss Memorial Library in Hayesville is hosting a free movie night for teens tonight, organized by the Clay County Chamber and local volunteers.This is a simple, no-cost way for families to connect and enjoy community right in the heart of Hayesville.

News as of: March 10, 2026.

Andrews Volunteers Needed to Pack Food Boxes for Local Families

Neighbors in Andrews can sign up to help pack and deliver food boxes through the Healthy Opportunities Pilot Program.This hands-on volunteer work puts meals on tables for families in Andrews and surrounding Cherokee County.

News as of: Recent announcement.

Towns County Library Volunteers Supply Books for Family Literacy Night

Library volunteers and the Friends of the Libraries group made sure every child at Towns County Elementary’s Family Literacy Night had free books.This shows how local folks are growing readers one story at a time in Hiawassee and Young Harris.

News as of: This Week.

Copperhill / Turtletown Teens Invited to Free Spring Formal

Community organizers are hosting a free prom-style formal for grades 9-12 in the Copperhill and Turtletown area.This volunteer-driven fun gives every teen in the Copperhill, Turtletown, and McCaysville area a night to remember without the cost.

News as of: Planning now.

MountainTrue Volunteers Host Winter Bird Watch Near Hayesville

Local volunteers with the nonprofit MountainTrue are leading a free guided bird-watching walk near Lake Chatuge.This is a perfect example of community groups getting neighbors outdoors and protecting the places we all love.

News as of: Upcoming March 21.

Clay County Master Gardeners Kick Off 2026 Home Gardener Series

Volunteer Master Gardeners are offering free monthly classes at the library to help everyone grow better gardens.Hands-on learning from locals for locals in Hayesville.

News as of: Series starts March 2026.

Sources:

* 2026-03-10 | https://www.facebook.com/claychambernc/

* Recent | https://www.andrewsnc.org/make-a-difference-in-your-community-volunteer-to-pack-food-boxes/

* This Week | https://www.facebook.com/TownsCountyLibrary/posts/towns-county-public-library-was-able-to-supply-some-fun-free-books-for-towns-cou/1289850306686473/

* Forward-looking | https://www.facebook.com/groups/496775144131190/posts/2402318776910141/

* This Week | https://mountaintrue.org/get-involved/events/

* Recent announcement | https://clay.ces.ncsu.edu/news/2026-home-gardener-series/

Where to listen

https://go.riverrun.digital/ADU-Podcasts

Notes, methods, and rights

This Appalachia Daily Update was created with the help of AI tools working alongside a human editor. All information is drawn from publicly available sources listed above. Rights for the Appalachia Daily Update are reserved by River Run Digital, which produces hyperlocal news for small towns across Appalachia and beyond. To learn more about River Run Digital and its local news projects, visit

https://go.riverrun.digital

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adu.riverrun.digital

Repeat Drug Trafficker Arrested in Martins Creek

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division and Clay County partners served a warrant and seized 278 grams of methamphetamine from a repeat trafficker. The suspect now faces multiple felony charges.

This kind of enforcement work directly protects our neighborhoods and roads.

News as of: March 5, 2026.

Folger Gas LLC Now Open in Murphy

Family-owned Folger Gas held its ribbon-cutting at 3765 East US 64 Alternate. The new propane service is ready for homes and businesses across Cherokee County.

Reliable local fuel options help everyone stay warm and prepared.

News as of: March 5, 2026.

Petunia Belle Mae’s Furniture & Gifts Opens in Hayesville

The new store on Main Street in Hayesville offers furniture, gifts, and home décor. Grand opening was March 7th.

More local shopping choices and jobs right in Clay County.

News as of: March 7, 2026.

Fannin County Commissioners Meet Tonight

The Board of Commissioners gathers at 5:30 p.m. in Blue Ridge to discuss county roads, services, and development.

Decisions here affect daily life across the state line.

News as of: March 9, 2026.

Supporter Spotlight: North Georgia Technical College AI Workshop

North Georgia Technical College is co-hosting a hands-on two-day AI for Small Business workshop series with River Run Digital. Sessions run March 24 and 31 at the Clarkesville campus and focus on practical tools for local teams.

Registration and details: https://go.riverrun.digital/AI-Workshop-NGTC

News as of: March 2026.

Where to listen

https://go.riverrun.digital/ADU-Podcasts

Notes, methods, and rights

This Appalachia Daily Update was created with the help of AI tools working alongside a human editor. All information is drawn from publicly available sources listed above. Rights for the Appalachia Daily Update are reserved by River Run Digital, which produces hyperlocal news for small towns across Appalachia and beyond. To learn more about River Run Digital and its local news projects, visit

https://go.riverrun.digital

Take care of your neighbors, and they will take care of you.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adu.riverrun.digital

4,400 Sign Petition to Protect Public Lands in Cherokee County

More than four thousand four hundred residents signed a petition opposing development of public lands.

The signatures were presented to county commissioners.

News as of: This Week.

Fannin County Candidate Qualifying Ends Today

Qualifying for county commission and school board seats ends today at noon.

Six candidates have filed for the local races.

News as of: This Week.

Weather Update – Mild and Mostly Sunny Today with Chance of Showers Tomorrow

Mostly sunny today with highs in the upper seventies. Tonight increasing clouds and lows in the mid fifties. Tomorrow morning chance of showers, then clearing.

News as of: March 6, 2026.

Murphy Singer Braden Rumfelt Advances to Top 30 on American Idol

Twenty two year old Braden Rumfelt from Murphy advanced to the Top thirty on American Idol with a standing ovation. He heads next to Hawaii for the next round.

This brings big hometown pride to our mountains.

News as of: March 3, 2026.

Soundcheck Friday – 80s Concert and Trash to Treasure Sale Tomorrow

Electric Avenue performs eighties hits Saturday at seven p.m. at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee.

The Union County Lions Club Trash to Treasure Sale runs Saturday in Blairsville.

News as of: Current event listings.

Supporter Spotlight

Gray Matters Boutique in Murphy offers stylish clothing, accessories, and gifts for ladies.

Wagner Worx is Murphy’s first co-working bar in the historic Mill Building, with workspace, high-speed wifi, and craft beverages.

Where to listen

https://go.riverrun.digital/ADU-Podcasts

Notes, methods, and rights

This Appalachia Daily Update was created with the help of AI tools working alongside a human editor. All information is drawn from publicly available sources listed above. Rights for the Appalachia Daily Update are reserved by River Run Digital, which produces hyperlocal news for small towns across Appalachia and beyond. To learn more about River Run Digital and its local news projects, visit

https://go.riverrun.digital

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adu.riverrun.digital

Voters Oust Two Incumbent Commissioners in Cherokee County

Dan Eichenbaum and Cal Stiles lost their reelection bids in Tuesday’s primary. Steve Coleman and Judith Bodley advance.This will influence future county decisions on infrastructure and services for Murphy and Andrews area residents.News as of: March 3-4, 2026.

Clay County Commissioners Meet Tonight

The board gathers at 6:30 pm in the multi-purpose room at the government center in Hayesville.These meetings provide a direct way for residents to follow local issues.News as of: March 5, 2026.

Fannin County Candidate Qualifying Continues Through Tomorrow

Qualifying for commission Post 2 and school board seats runs through March 6.Multiple candidates have filed, shaping upcoming elections in Blue Ridge and neighboring communities.News as of: March 2026 qualifying period.

Local Legends: Appalachian Storytelling Evening in Hayesville

The Clay County Chamber presents an evening with storyteller Kanute Rarey on March 18 at 7 pm at Keith House, John C. Campbell Folk School.This event helps preserve the folklore and history of our Appalachian region.News as of: Current calendar listing.

Where to listen

https://go.riverrun.digital/ADU-Podcasts

Notes, methods, and rights

This Appalachia Daily Update was created with the help of AI tools working alongside a human editor. All information is drawn from publicly available sources listed above. Rights for the Appalachia Daily Update are reserved by River Run Digital, which produces hyperlocal news for small towns across Appalachia and beyond. To learn more about River Run Digital and its local news projects, visit

https://go.riverrun.digital

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adu.riverrun.digital

Update on Hiwassee Dam Dog Attack Death Investigation

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office identified the victim as 74-year-old Diane Emily Pellington of Murphy. An autopsy confirmed death resulted from a dog attack during a welfare check response on February 25. Three dogs were seized and quarantined.

News as of: March 2-3, 2026.

Sheriff Chris Wood Reads to Andrews Elementary Students

Newly appointed Sheriff Chris Wood visited Andrews Elementary School to read Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss and discuss the importance of literacy with students. Positive community outreach from local law enforcement.

News as of: March 2, 2026.

Candidate Qualifying Underway in Fannin and Union Counties

Qualifying continues this week through Friday for Fannin County commissioner Post 2 and school board seats, with parallel process in Union County at the elections office.

News as of: March 2, 2026.

John C. Campbell Folk School Online Auction Now Open

Bidding is live through March 13 on handcrafted ironwork, textiles, jewelry, pottery, paintings, woodturnings, and Centennial Artists items. Proceeds support the Folk School’s educational programs in Brasstown.

News as of: March 2, 2026.

Sources:

* 2026-03-02 | https://www.local3news.com/local-news/update-74-year-old-veterinary-assistant-killed-in-murphy-nc-dog-attack/article_1a03189f-fb73-43e9-a101-ddb2f83d562b.html

* 2026-03-02 | https://www.facebook.com/CherokeeCountySheriffNC/posts/for-immediate-releasemarch-2-2026sheriff-chris-wood-celebrates-literacy-at-andre/1340181938140254/

* 2026-03-02 | https://www.thenewsobserver.com/local-news-newsletter/fannin-election-qualifying-starts-mon

* 2026-03-02 | https://www.folkschool.org/events/online-auction/

Where to listen

https://go.riverrun.digital/ADU-Podcasts

Notes, methods, and rights

This Appalachia Daily Update was created with the help of AI tools working alongside a human editor. All information is drawn from publicly available sources listed above. Rights for the Appalachia Daily Update are reserved by River Run Digital, which produces hyperlocal news for small towns across Appalachia and beyond. To learn more about River Run Digital and its local news projects, visit

https://go.riverrun.digital

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adu.riverrun.digital

Primary Election Day is Today

Polls are open today for the 2026 primary election in Cherokee and Clay Counties. Voters in the Topton precinct should go to Andrews North this time. These local races decide who handles schools, roads, and services for our families.

News as of: March 3, 2026.

Candidate Qualifying Underway in Fannin County

Qualifying started yesterday for the Board of Commissioners Post two and Board of Education seats in Fannin County. It continues through Friday. This affects leadership choices for our neighbors just across the Georgia line.

News as of: March 2, 2026.

Hayesville High Celebrates State Wrestling Champion

Rayland Martinez won the one A two A two hundred eighty five pound state title, and the community lined the streets to celebrate. It boosts school pride and shows the dedication of our youth athletes in Clay County.

News as of: February 26, 2026.

Community Spotlight – Logan’s Run Rescue

This nonprofit animal rescue and low cost spay and neuter clinic in Murphy was recently highlighted for its work ending overpopulation and supporting families with affordable pet care plus a thriving thrift store. Volunteers and donations keep programs running that help pets and people right here in our Appalachian communities.

News as of: February 24, 2026.

Sources:

* 2026-03-03 | https://www.cherokeecounty-nc.gov/274/Board-of-Elections

* 2026-03-02 | https://www.thenewsobserver.com/local-news-newsletter/fannin-election-qualifying-starts-mon

* 2026-02-26 |

https://www.claycountyprogress.com/

* 2026-02-24 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/local-newsletter/52-things-celebrate-about-cherokee-county-no-8-logans-run-rescue

* Date not listed |

https://www.logansrunrescue.com/

Where to listen

https://go.riverrun.digital/ADU-Podcasts

Notes, methods, and rights

This Appalachia Daily Update was created with the help of AI tools working alongside a human editor. All information is drawn from publicly available sources listed above. Rights for the Appalachia Daily Update are reserved by River Run Digital, which produces hyperlocal news for small towns across Appalachia and beyond. To learn more about River Run Digital and its local news projects, visit

https://go.riverrun.digital

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adu.riverrun.digital

Dog Attack Confirmed in Hiwassee Dam Community

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office has released more details about the death of a seventy-five-year-old woman last week. Deputies responded to a welfare check and later confirmed through autopsy that she died from a dog attack. Three dogs were seized and quarantined.

News as of: February 27 - March 1, 2026.

Live Grenades Discovered in Culberson Home

A family cleaning a deceased relative’s property in Culberson found a smoke grenade and an MK two grenade on February twenty sixth. The devices were stable but live. The state bomb squad safely disposed of them with no charges expected.

News as of: March 1, 2026.

Tri-County Students Building Affordable Homes in Andrews

Students in the Building Construction Technology program at Tri-County Community College have begun work on the first homes on a twelve-acre site gifted to the college foundation. A two-point-eight-million-dollar grant is supporting the effort to create workforce housing and training opportunities.

News as of: March 2, 2026.

Candidate Qualifying Underway in Union County, Georgia

Qualifying for local offices is taking place this week at the Union County Elections and Registration Center at thirty three Roscoe Collins Drive in Blairsville. The change is due to ongoing courthouse construction.

News as of: March 2, 2026.

New Business Monday Spotlight

Wagner Works hosted an AI training session this past Saturday in Murphy. We want to thank them for organizing the event and recognize everyone who participated, with a special note to the team from Gray Matters Boutique.

Sources:

* 2026-02-27 | https://www.local3news.com/local-news/update-75-year-old-woman-killed-in-dog-attack-cherokee-co-sheriff-says/article_1a03189f-fb73-43e9-a101-ddb2f83d562b.html

* 2026-03-01 | https://newschannel9.com/news/local/two-bombs-found-in-deceased-persons-home-in-cherokee-county-authorities-confirm

* 2026-03-02 | https://www.ednc.org/building-skills-building-homes-tri-county-community-college-launches-new-initiative-to-address-housing-shortages/

* 2026-03-02 | https://www.nganews.com/

Where to listen

https://go.riverrun.digital/ADU-Podcasts

Notes, methods, and rights

This Appalachia Daily Update was created with the help of AI tools working alongside a human editor. All information is drawn from publicly available sources listed above. Rights for the Appalachia Daily Update are reserved by River Run Digital, which produces hyperlocal news for small towns across Appalachia and beyond. To learn more about River Run Digital and its local news projects, visit

https://go.riverrun.digital

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adu.riverrun.digital

Investigation Underway After Unidentified Person Found Dead in Hiwassee Dam Community

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of an unidentified person found on Cross Creek Lane in the Hiwassee Dam area. State Bureau of Investigation agents are assisting with the case.Authorities confirm no threat to the community as they work to identify the individual and notify next of kin.News as of: February 26, 2026.

Chris Wood Sworn In as New Cherokee County Sheriff

Chris Wood has officially taken the oath to complete the unexpired term following Dustin Smith’s resignation.The change provides continuity for law enforcement services in Cherokee County ahead of the March primary.News as of: February 24, 2026.

Early Voting Ends Saturday for March 3 Primary

In-person early voting for the March 3 primary wraps up at 3 p.m. Saturday.This is the final opportunity for residents to cast ballots in key local races before Election Day on Tuesday.News as of: February 27, 2026.

Soundcheck Friday – Murphy’s Braden Rumfelt Announces Two Upcoming Shows

Murphy native Braden Rumfelt, who is advancing on American Idol, will perform with his band in a free pop-up show March 5 at 6:30 p.m. at Western Carolina University’s University Center Grand Room. He will also take the stage at Myst Bar inside Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort on March 7 at 8 p.m.The events give local fans a chance to support one of our own as he chases a national spotlight.News as of: February 25-26, 2026.

Where to listen

https://go.riverrun.digital/ADU-Podcasts

Notes, methods, and rights

This Appalachia Daily Update was created with the help of AI tools working alongside a human editor. All information is drawn from publicly available sources listed above. Rights for the Appalachia Daily Update are reserved by River Run Digital, which produces hyperlocal news for small towns across Appalachia and beyond. To learn more about River Run Digital and its local news projects, visit

https://go.riverrun.digital

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adu.riverrun.digital

Murphy Native Braden Rumfelt Shines in American Idol Hollywood Week

Twenty-two-year-old Braden Rumfelt from Murphy delivered a standout cover of Sam Smith’s I’m Not the Only One during Hollywood Week in Music City, joined by his twin brother Kellen on guitar. The judges stood and cheered, and Luke Bryan told the other judges he may win the whole thing.

The episode ended on a cliffhanger, awaiting Lionel Richie’s decision. Viewers learn his fate on the next episode airing Monday, March second. The season continues with live voting starting late March and runs to the finale expected in mid to late May. Tune in, cheer him on, and get ready to support our local talent.

News as of: February 26, 2026.

Hiwassee Dam Lady Eagles Win Little Smoky Mountain Conference Title

The Hiwassee Dam girls varsity basketball team defeated Summit Charter to claim the Little Smoky Mountain Conference tournament championship.

It is a proud moment for the community as the Eagles turn their focus to the state playoffs.

News as of: February 25, 2026.

Early Voting Ends Saturday for March 3 Primary

Early voting sites stay open through Saturday at three p.m. for the March third primary. Cherokee County and nearby areas have several local races on the ballot.

Make time to vote if you have not already.

News as of: February 26, 2026.

Fannin County Responders Rescue Ill Hiker on Appalachian Trail

A forty-six-year-old solo hiker became ill and could not walk near Hawk Mountain on February twenty first. Fannin County EMA, fire, EMS, and Georgia DNR teams responded.

They carried him out in a Stokes basket over difficult ground and used a helicopter long line for extraction. The full operation took more than eight hours before he reached the hospital.

News as of: February 24, 2026.

Where to listen

https://go.riverrun.digital/ADU-Podcasts

Notes, methods, and rights

This Appalachia Daily Update was created with the help of AI tools working alongside a human editor. All information is drawn from publicly available sources listed above. Rights for the Appalachia Daily Update are reserved by River Run Digital, which produces hyperlocal news for small towns across Appalachia and beyond. To learn more about River Run Digital and its local news projects, visit

https://go.riverrun.digital

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adu.riverrun.digital