The Appalachia Daily Podcast

Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Arrests Neighbor After Shots-Fired Call Deputies with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office arrested a neighbor after a shots-fired call on Wild Byrd Road in Murphy. It happened back on May 23rd when a dispute turned ugly with gunfire aimed at an 18-year-old on an ATV. No one was hurt. Investigators moved fast and wrapped it up this week. Good to know the team stays...

Murphy Area Break-In and Arson Suspects Arrested Deputies with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office have arrested suspects connected to a recent break-in and arson case in Murphy. The arrests bring closure to the investigation and help restore a sense of security for neighbors as summer gets underway. Sources: 2026-05-22 | https://www.facebook.com/CherokeeCountySheriffNC/posts/sheriff-woods-may-20...

Murphy Mayor Tim Radford elected vice president of state mayors group Murphy Mayor Tim Radford was elected vice president of the North Carolina Mayors Association. The role puts him first in line to become the group’s next president. More than seventy mayors from across the state chose him, giving small mountain communities like ours a stronger voice on roads, jobs, and the issues that hit rural A...

Sheriff’s Office Runs Saturation Patrol Through Andrews Deputies from multiple divisions hit the Valleytown area in Andrews last week for a high-visibility saturation patrol. They made an arrest during a vehicle stop and reinforced that every part of Cherokee County stays covered. Sources: 2026-05-21 | https://www.facebook.com/CherokeeCountySheriffNC/posts/for-immediate-releasemay-20-2026on-the-af...

Cherokee County holds public hearing on FY 2026-27 budget tonight at 5:30 p.m. The county is inviting residents to the courthouse in Murphy this evening to share thoughts on next year’s spending plan. Your input helps shape funding for roads, safety, schools, and everyday services. Cherokee County Schools names Angel Owens new superintendent The Board of Education selected Angel Owens, a Murphy Hi...

Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office arrests break-in and arson suspects in Murphy Officers took two people into custody following recent break-ins and an arson attempt at King Ford. The swift response helps protect local businesses and residents. Oak & Stone NC celebrates grand opening in Murphy The new countertops and cabinets shop at 945 Connahetta Street held its grand opening this past weekend. T...

Cherokee County offices closed Monday for Memorial Day County buildings shut down Monday so plan ahead and make the most of the long weekend honoring our veterans. Cherokee County Schools names new superintendent Angel Owens Angel Owens steps in from Clay County Schools to lead local education effective July first—great news for every student, teacher, and family across Cherokee County. Soundcheck...

Cherokee County burn ban lifted After steady rain, the local burn ban is gone. Residents can now handle yard cleanup safely—always confirm with the sheriff’s office first. Library Board meets today in Andrews The Nantahala Regional Library Board holds its quarterly session at the Andrews Public Library this afternoon. Public input helps shape programs across Cherokee, Clay, Graham, and Macon count...

Cherokee County Honors Fallen Hero Francisco Flattes On National Peace Officers Memorial Day, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office paid tribute to Detention Officer Francisco Flattes. His name is now permanently etched on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. Sheriff Chris Wood described the engraving as a permanent reminder of Francisco’s courage and the sacrifice he...

Date: May 16, 2026 Four Nantahala National Forest Trails Named AllTrails “Travel Worthy” for 2026 AllTrails has recognized four standout trails in the Nantahala National Forest as Travel Worthy for 2026. Glen Falls, Secret Falls, Wesser Bald Fire Tower, and Yellow Mountain Fire Tower earned the honor. These trails highlight the world-class hiking we enjoy across Cherokee, Graham, Macon, and Swain...

Date: May 15, 2026 Fatal Rollover Crash in Cherokee County Claims Young Life A rollover crash early on May 11 in Cherokee County resulted in the death of a 15-year-old and injuries to another teen after the vehicle struck a utility pole and caught fire. Neighbors are mourning the loss. This tragedy underscores the need for caution on our winding mountain roads. Sources: 2026-05-11 | Regional news...

Date: May 14, 2026 Murphy Man Found Safe Scott Allen Mello is back with us after a community-wide search. Murphy Police Chief Tim Lominac confirmed he walked into the station on his own. Cherokee County Budget Hearing Today The Board of Commissioners holds a public hearing at 2 PM in Murphy. Come share your thoughts on next year’s spending priorities. Local Legend – This Week in Local History The...

Date: May 13, 2026 Cherokee County Man Arrested for Operating Vehicle Resembling Law Enforcement Vehicle and Possession of a Firearm by Convicted Felon Deputies acted on citizen tips about a vehicle with law-enforcement markings, served warrants, and seized illegal items—protecting trust and safety in Murphy. Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Joins Multi-Agency “Hands Across the Border” Checkpoint...

Date: May 12, 2026 MURPHYMADD Honors Murphy Police Officer Brayden Snow Local MADD chapter recognized Officer Snow for his dedicated service to the community. EBCI Senior Citizens Center Spotlights Elders with 22nd Annual Elder’s Walk The Eastern Band’s Senior Citizens Center hosted their annual walk to champion health and honor our elders. Big Head’s Grub Honors Local Law Enforcement with Free Me...

Date: May 11, 2026 New Shops Opening in Downtown Murphy Downtown Murphy continues to grow with new retail options bringing more variety for residents and visitors. Spots like House of Esther and The Little Shop LLC are now open along Tennessee Street and near the square, offering unique finds that highlight local entrepreneurship. This is a great chance to support small businesses right in our bac...

Ellijay Music Festival Underway This Weekend The fourth annual Ellijay Music Festival kicks off today and runs through Sunday, May 10. Award-winning songwriters, recording artists, and bands will perform original songs, fan favorites, and hits at venues including The Butcher and Bottle, Gilmer Arts Playhouse, Cantaberry, The Ellijay Cigar Lounge, and Cartecay River Brewing Co. Many performances ar...

Cherokee County Historical Museum Reopens The museum welcomed visitors after renovations that improved displays and gallery space—making it easier for everyone to explore our shared history. Chief Junaluska – Cherokee Warrior Legend Born near the Little Tennessee River close to Andrews, Chief Junaluska showed great bravery at the Battle of Horseshoe Bend and later lived among us. His story of cour...

Valley River Arts Guild Volunteers Launch MAX Project Outdoor Art Gallery Local volunteer artists with the Valley River Arts Guild have created a free outdoor gallery on downtown Murphy brick walls. The current “Natural World” show is up now—bringing beauty and creativity to sidewalks where neighbors walk every day. Friends of the Murphy Library Summer Programs Local volunteers are gearing up for...

Blue Ridge Olive Oil Company Opens New Downtown Murphy Location Neighbors in Murphy now have a brand-new tasting spot for premium olive oils and balsamics right on Tennessee Street. It’s the kind of local business that adds flavor—literally—to downtown shopping and keeps dollars circulating close to home. Miss Vicky’s Country Store Grand Opening in Blairsville Union County welcomed Miss Vicky’s Co...

Cherokee County Burn Ban Lifted – Great News for Outdoor Lovers Recent rainfall improved conditions enough for the local burn ban to be lifted. This opens safer opportunities for campfires and outdoor recreation this weekend while we all stay mindful of fire safety. AllTrails Names Nantahala National Forest Trails Among 2026 Travel Worthy Highlights AllTrails’ 2026 list spotlights four trails in t...

Murphy Spring Fest Kicks Off This Weekend with Free Live Music, Art and Saturday Fireworks The annual Murphy Spring Fest is rolling May 1 through 3 with free live music all day Saturday, local artists, food vendors, and evening fireworks downtown. It’s a great weekend gathering for the whole family. Valley River Ringers Spring Concert Tonight in Murphy The Valley River Ringers handbell choir perfo...

Murphy’s Braden Rumfelt Advances to Top 5 on American Idol Murphy native Braden Rumfelt has made the final five on American Idol. Our hometown singer is shining on the national stage and bringing big pride to every neighbor in Cherokee County. Blairsville Celebrates Centenarian Marion Durkee with Special Proclamation Union County honored longtime Blairsville resident Marion Durkee on her 100th bir...

April 29, 2026 | Hometown Heroes Wednesday Fire Crews Make Strong Progress Containing Sawmill Branch Wildfire Firefighters from the U.S. Forest Service and local crews have the Sawmill Branch Fire near Robbinsville 85% contained after it started April 16 in steep Nantahala National Forest terrain. Forty personnel worked through dry, windy conditions to build lines and extinguish hot spots. These d...

Cherokee County Extension Community Association (ECA) Spotlight During Volunteer Appreciation Week These hardworking volunteers are stitching donations, serving dinners, and teaching skills that strengthen our communities. They embody the spirit of neighbors helping neighbors. Good Shepherd Hospice Seeking More Local Volunteers Good Shepherd Hospice needs caring volunteers to support patients and...

Date: April 27, 2026 Juna’s General Store Ribbon Cutting Tomorrow in Andrews Tomorrow’s the big day in Andrews. Juna’s General Store holds its official ribbon-cutting and opens its doors as the newest mercantile on Main Street. Expect everyday goods, coffee, and that warm community feel we all appreciate. Carlisle’s Meat Market Ribbon Cutting Tomorrow in Blairsville Blairsville is welcoming a new...