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

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

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

Tri-County Public Safety College Training Wraps Up in Murphy

Volunteer firefighters, EMS personnel, and first responders from Cherokee, Clay, and Graham counties completed hands-on training at Tri-County Community College in Murphy. The sessions ran February 18 through 22.

This work directly strengthens the teams that keep our mountain communities safe.

News as of: February 22, 2026Sources:

* 2026-02-22 | https://www.tricountycc.edu/2026-public-safety-college/

Clay County Recovery Leaders Earn State Dogwood Awards

Doctor Travis Williams and Stacie Ledford of Rock Bottom Recovery and Support received the North Carolina Attorney General’s Dogwood Award for their opioid recovery efforts.

Their dedication continues to help families right here in western North Carolina.

News as of: February 19, 2026Sources:

* 2026-02-19 | https://www.claycountyprogress.com/local-newsletter/locals-receive-dogwood-awards

Telepsych Grant Approved for Clay and Cherokee County Schools

A five hundred thirty thousand dollar grant will expand board-certified child psychiatry via telemedicine for students in Clay and Cherokee County schools.

The funding closes mental health access gaps for rural families in our area.

News as of: February 19, 2026Sources:

* 2026-02-19 | https://www.claycountyprogress.com/local-newsletter/telepsych-grant-unc-approved-clay-county-schools

Fannin County Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting

Fannin County commissioners held their regular meeting today in Blue Ridge. The public session covered local roads, services, and other county decisions.

Residents can stay involved in the issues that affect our north Georgia and western North Carolina neighbors.

News as of: February 24, 2026Sources:

* 2026-02-24 | https://fannincountyga.com/board-of-commissioners/

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

Final Days of Early Voting Underway in Clay County for March Primary

Early voting for the March 3 primary continues through Saturday, February 28 at the Clay County Board of Elections office in Hayesville. Neighbors have weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. available plus Saturday morning hours.

News as of: February 19, 2026.

Sources:

* 2026-02-19 | https://elections.claync.us/current-election-information

* 2026-02-12 | https://www.claycountyprogress.com/local-newsletter/early-voting-starts

Fannin County High School Names 2026 STAR Student and STAR Teacher

Madeline Schueneman has been named Fannin County’s 2026 STAR Student and Miranda Roof the STAR Teacher at Fannin County High School. These awards celebrate outstanding students and educators in our regional community.

News as of: February 17, 2026.

Sources:

* 2026-02-17 | https://www.thenewsobserver.com/local-news-newsletter/schueneman-roof-named-fchs-stars

Clay County Recovery Leaders Honored with Dogwood Awards

Dr. Travis Williams and Stacie Ledford of Rock Bottom Recovery received the North Carolina Attorney General’s Dogwood Award. Their work has made a meaningful difference helping families recover from opioid addiction across western North Carolina.

News as of: February 19, 2026.

Sources:

* 2026-02-19 | https://www.claycountyprogress.com/local-newsletter/locals-receive-dogwood-awards

Trail Spotlight Saturday - Chatuge Dam Paved Trail

After the recent rain, the paved Chatuge Dam Trail near Hayesville is an ideal easy outing. This flat, ADA-accessible path offers beautiful lake and mountain views and stays dry underfoot.

News as of: Current local asset.

Sources:

* Current | https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/north-carolina/chatuge-dam-trail

* TVA info via claychambernc.com

Supporter Spotlights

Bee’s Windows & DesignsBlairsville, GA artist known for custom hand-painted window art and seasonal designs that brighten homes and businesses.

River Run Digital AI for Small Business WorkshopPractical, hands-on training to help local small businesses use AI tools effectively. See their Facebook event for details.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1640952950676808

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

Chris Wood Selected to Complete Cherokee County Sheriff Term

The Cherokee County Republican Party executive committee voted Thursday night to recommend Chris Wood to finish the unexpired term of former Sheriff Dustin Smith.

This provides important continuity for public safety services across Cherokee County.

News as of: February 20, 2026.Sources:

* 2026-02-20 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/local-news/chris-wood-complete-former-sheriff-dustin-smiths-term-cherokee-county-sheriff

Fannin County High School Names 2026 STAR Student and Teacher

Madeline Schueneman has been named the 2026 STAR Student and Miranda Roof the STAR Teacher at Fannin County High School.

These annual awards recognize outstanding academic achievement and teaching excellence in our neighboring Georgia county.

News as of: February 17, 2026.Sources:

* 2026-02-17 | https://www.thenewsobserver.com/local-news-newsletter/schueneman-roof-named-fchs-stars

Scheduled Water Outage on Hiawassee Street in Hayesville

Clay County officials have scheduled a water service interruption for addresses on Hiawassee Street in Hayesville. The outage begins Monday afternoon.

Residents in the affected area should prepare accordingly.

News as of: February 19, 2026.Sources:

* 2026-02-19 | https://www.claycountyprogress.com/local/scheduled-water-outage

Soundcheck Friday – Original Music, Line Dancing & Local Songwriter Spotlight This Weekend

This weekend brings live original music to the area. The Songwriters Showcase 58 takes place Saturday evening at the Peacock Performing Arts Center in Hayesville.

We are also highlighting local songwriter Dee Wayne Anthony and his single Through the Fire, available now on Spotify. The track speaks directly to real mountain experiences, when the river runs dry, fields turn to dust, and hard times feel endless. Yet the song carries a clear message of faith, resilience, and rising stronger after every test.

News as of: February 2026 event calendars.Sources:

* Current | https://peacockperformingartscenter.thundertix.com/events/254223

* Current |

* Current | https://www.folkschool.org/calendar/

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

Cherokee County GOP to Select Sheriff Replacement Tonight

The Cherokee County Republican Executive Committee meets tonight at six p.m. to recommend a candidate to fill the sheriff vacancy.

This appointment process is important for maintaining steady law enforcement leadership and public safety services for all residents of Cherokee County.

News as of: February 19, 2026

Fannin Middle School Safety Incident Resolved

A student who left Fannin Middle School campus was located quickly this week with no threat to others.

School staff and local first responders worked together effectively. This outcome highlights good coordination between schools and law enforcement in Fannin County, Georgia.

News as of: February 17, 2026

Local Legends: Remembering Bill Forsyth

Bill Forsyth, seventy nine, a longtime economic development leader in Cherokee County, has passed away.

For decades he worked to bring jobs and growth to the mountains. His efforts left a lasting positive impact on the local economy.

News as of: February 17, 2026

Local Wrestlers Advance to State Tournament

Weston Adams and Anthony Catuto from Murphy, along with Hayden Virtanen from Andrews, qualified for the state wrestling tournament.

Their success is a point of pride for local high school sports programs.

News as of: February 17, 2026

Shotgun Weddings at Cherokee Guns

Two couples held their wedding ceremonies at Cherokee Guns in Murphy on Valentine’s Day.

Each couple got to keep the shotgun used in their unique ceremony.

News as of: February 17, 2026

Supporter Spotlight: BigHead’s Grub and Wagner Worx

BigHead’s Grub offers some of the best brisket smash burgers in the tri-state area from their Murphy location. Wagner Worx Co-Working Bar provides flexible workspaces, collaboration areas, and beverages right in downtown Murphy.

These local spots add convenience and community to daily life in the area.

Sources:

* 2026-02-19 | https://www.facebook.com/WKRKRadio/posts/1520886666710280

* 2026-02-17 |

https://www.fannin.k12.ga.us/p/~board/superintendents-news/post/february-17-2026

* 2026-02-17 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/local-newsletter/economic-developer-bill-forsyth-dies-79

* 2026-02-17 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/sports-newsletter/3-local-wrestlers-heading-state

* 2026-02-17 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/local-newsletter/2-shotgun-weddings-literally

* 2026-02-19 | https://www.facebook.com/people/BigHeads-Grub-INC/61572944639879/

* 2026-02-19 |

https://www.facebook.com/p/Wagner-Worx-Co-Working-Bar-61576193198614/

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