Appalachia Daily Update | January 8, 2026

Public safety alert in Clay County: Search underway in Myers Chapel areaClay County Sheriff’s Office is asking for help locating a man last seen near Highway 69 and Nicely Road in the Myers Chapel area.* Do not approach.* Call 911 immediately if you see him.* Share only confirmed information and avoid rumors.Sources:* 2026-01-08 | https://www.facebook.com/61561298949617/posts/public-assistclay-county-sheriffs-office-is-asking-for-the-publics-help-in-locat/129814273899613/?_rdrKonehete Park playground and nearby courts temporarily closed for new equipmentCherokee County Parks and Recreation reports the playground near the Rock Gym and the tennis and pickleball courts will be closed this week for new equipment installation, with reopening expected Saturday morning.* Plan alternate play and court time for a couple days.* Watch for safety barriers and posted signage.* Check before you go if weather changes the schedule.Sources:* 2026-01-08 | https://www.cherokeecounty-nc.gov/1066/Parks-RecreationBlue Ridge announces administrative transitionThe City of Blue Ridge says the co-interim city administrator arrangement has ended, with Chief Rob Stuart returning full-time as Police Chief and Mandi Cody’s interim contract not renewed.* Expect day-to-day operations to continue as the city moves forward.* Watch for future announcements related to permanent administration.* Stay informed through official city channels.Sources:* 2026-01-07 | https://www.blueridgega.gov/news/post/city-of-blue-ridge-announces-administrative-transitionRibbon cutting Friday for Southern Samaritans in AndrewsA ribbon-cutting is scheduled for Friday at noon to welcome Southern Samaritans in Andrews.* Stop by if you can and show support.* Learn what the organization is doing for neighbors in need.* Bring a friend and make it a community moment.Sources:* 2025-12-23 |Vogel State Park: Lake Trahlyta Loop and Trahlyta Falls access closedVogel State Park reports the Lake Trahlyta Loop Trail is closed due to dam maintenance and repairs, which also prevents access to Trahlyta Falls.* Respect “Trail Closed” signage and barriers.* Consider alternate walks and overlooks in the area.* Check official updates before planning a trip.Sources:* 2026-01-08 | https://gastateparks.org/Vogel2nd Annual Seed Swap at FernCrest Winery in AndrewsA seed swap is scheduled for Sunday, January 11, from 3–5 PM at FernCrest Winery in Andrews, with a snow date of January 18.* Bring extra seeds if you have them.* Come even if you don’t have anything to swap.* Expect a friendly, low-key community hang.Sources: * 2026-01-08 | https://allevents.in/andrews/2nd-annual-seed-swap/200029452017542Local Legends: Donald Davis storytelling at John C. Campbell Folk SchoolJohn C. Campbell Folk School is hosting a multi-day storytelling experience with Donald Davis later this month during its centennial year.* A great winter-time evening plan.* A warm way to connect with Appalachian storytelling traditions.* Check details early if you want to attend a multi-day program.Sources:* 2026-01-08 | https://thelaurelofasheville.com/culture/folk-school-welcomes-donald-davis-for-storytelling-event/Where to listen and follow* Website: adu.riverrun.digital* Producer: https://go.riverrun.digital* Email: [email protected], methods, and rightsWe use a mix of public information, official notices, and community postings to build this daily brief. If you see something we should cover, email us at [email protected] newscast may use AI tools to help draft, summarize, and format public information. All final editorial choices, topic selection, and presentation are produced by River Run Digital. For questions, corrections, or rights inquiries, contact us. More information is available at 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