Hometown Heroes: Steady Hands and Community Victories

Leadership in TransitionChief deputies in Graham and Cherokee counties’re currently managing sheriff operations following recent leadership changes. Chief Deputy Travis Brooks in Graham and Chief Deputy Justin Jacobs in Cherokee’re being recognized for their steady leadership during this transitional period.Sources:* 2026-02-17 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/local-newsletter/chief-deputy-charge-until-gop-appoints-new-sheriff* 2026-02-17 | https://www.grahamstar.com/local-regional-newsletter/petition-removal-suspension-filed-against-graham-county-sheriffLake Hiwassee VictoryA community-led petition drive’s successfully halted plans to sell public land around Lake Hiwassee to private bidders. Cherokee County Commissioners reversed their decision after hearing from concerned neighbors.Sources:* 2026-02-17 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/local-newsletter/campaign-save-public-lands-workingCivic Alert: Early VotingEarly voting for the March 3 primary continues through March 1. Turnout’s been light in the opening days, and residents’re encouraged to cast their ballots early.Sources:* 2026-02-17 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/local-newsletter/early-voting-turnout-low-so-farPolk County School Health ConcernsParents at Benton Elementary in Polk County’re demanding transparency following a health inspection score of 68. Concerns center on the aging infrastructure of the 100-year-old school building.Sources:* 2026-02-17 | https://newschannel9.com/news/local/parents-demand-transparency-as-benton-elementary-health-violations-raise-funding-questionsBlue Ridge Community Theater GalaThe theater’s 2nd annual gala’s set for this Saturday, February 21, at 6:00 PM. The event features a Hall of Fame induction and live entertainment to support the local arts.Sources:* 2026-02-15 | https://fannin.fetchyournews.com/2026/02/15/blue-ridge-community-theater-gala-hall-of-fame/Appalachia Daily Update’s a service of River Run Digital. We provide hyper-local news for Murphy, North Carolina, and the surrounding mountain communities. For more information or to support our work, visit https://podcasts.riverrun.digital/adu. 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