Episodes

  • Appalachia Daily Update: Legends, Records, and the Big Thaw

    Appalachia Daily Update: Legends, Records, and the Big Thaw
    Feb 3 2026

    Weather & Safety: The Emergency is Over

    The double-hit of Winter Storm Fern (ice) and Winter Storm Gianna (snow) is finally in the rearview. Murphy has officially terminated its Local State of Emergency. We’re expecting a sunny Tuesday with a high of 48°F. The thaw is here, but watch for black ice on shaded curves during the overnight refreeze.

    Sources:2026-02-03 | https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/murphy/28906/february-weather/3347892026-01-27 | https://www.townofmurphync.com/news

    Community Spotlight: Pigs on the Ridge

    Our local agricultural youth continue to shine. Students from Fannin, Dawson, and Walker cownees competed in the Young Farmers Association Market Hog Show in mid-January. A special shoutout to Fannin’s Justin Burrell, who secured three top honors, showcasing the dedication of our local 4-H and FFA programs.

    Sources:2026-01-27 | https://www.thenewsobserver.com/local-news-newsletter/ten-fannin-win-pigs-ridge-events

    Sports: Hyatt Claims the Throne

    History was made in Copperhill as Copper Basin’s Alexis Hyatt became the all-time leading scorer in the modern era at Copper Basin High School. Hyatt’s 1,446 career points place her at the top of the mountain for both the boys’ and girls’ programs in school history.

    Sources:2026-01-27 | https://www.thenewsobserver.com/sports/alexis-hyatt-sets-basins-all-time-record

    Local Legends: Carl Pickens Signs are Up

    Murphy High’s own Carl Pickens is now officially recognized at the town’s gateways. Signs honoring the NFL star and 2023 Tennessee Athletics Hall of Fame inductee were installed along US 19/74, celebrating a legacy that began on the local gridiron and reached the highest levels of the sport.

    Sources:2026-01-27 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/local-newsletter/murphy-shows-pride-carl-perkins-signs

    Civic Notice: Blue Ridge Planning

    The Blue Ridge Planning Commission will meet tomorrow, Feb 4, at 6:00 PM at City Hall (480 West First Street). Agenda items include significant rezoning discussions and administrative transitions.

    Sources:2026-02-03 | https://www.cityofblueridgega.gov/bc-pz/meeting/february-4-2026-planning-commission-meeting

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

    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
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    3 mins
  • The Appalachia Daily Update - February 2, 2026

    The Appalachia Daily Update - February 2, 2026
    Feb 2 2026

    Winter Storm Gianna: Travel and Safety

    The region remains under an Extreme Cold Warning following Winter Storm Gianna. While precipitation has ended, local authorities warn of significant “black ice” on secondary roads and main arteries like Highway 515 and Highway 64. The Georgia State of Emergency has been extended by Governor Kemp and is active through Feb 6, 2026.

    Local Government Notice: Murphy, NC

    The Murphy Town Council meeting originally set for tonight, Feb 2, is officially postponed due to hazardous travel conditions. The meeting is rescheduled for Monday, Feb 9, 2026, at 5:00 PM at Murphy Town Hall on Wofford Street.

    New Business Monday

    * Guthrie’s Chicken (Blairsville, GA): The long-awaited chicken finger specialist is now open on Highway 515, providing a new dining option for the Union County community.

    * Oak & Oar Interiors (Copperhill, TN): Now open on Ocoee Street, this new boutique specializes in regional home decor, furniture, and interior design services that capture the mountain aesthetic.

    Warming Stations and Assistance

    GEMA and Georgia State Parks have opened warming stations for residents without reliable heat. ParkPass fees are waived for those seeking warmth at State Park facilities during this extreme cold event.

    Sources:2026-02-01 | https://www.cherokeescout.com2026-01-30 | https://gov.georgia.gov/press-releases/2026-01-30/gov-kemp-declares-new-state-emergency-ahead-winter-storm2026-02-01 | https://gema.georgia.gov/winter-storm-jan-20262026-02-01 | https://www.townofmurphync.com/meetings2026-02-01 | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=35.06842&lon=-84.03852

    Take care of your neighbors, and they will take care of you. For more local updates, 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
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    3 mins
  • Appalachia Daily Update (ADU) — Friday, January 30, 2026

    Appalachia Daily Update (ADU) — Friday, January 30, 2026
    Jan 30 2026

    Winter Storm Warnings Across the Region

    Winter Storm Warnings are in effect across western North Carolina, northwest Georgia, and east Tennessee, with snow and hazardous travel expected from Friday evening through the weekend. Listeners are encouraged to monitor local conditions and expect last-minute event cancellations.

    Sources

    * 2026-01-30 | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=mrx&wwa=all

    * 2026-01-30 | https://www.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=ffc&wwa=all

    Soundcheck Friday: Town-by-Town Picks

    News Date: 2026-01-30

    Live music is listed across the region tonight and into the weekend, with weather conditions likely to affect schedules. Always check venue social pages before heading out.

    Sources

    * Undated | https://chevellerestaurants.com/events/

    * Undated | https://www.facebook.com/61566924058083/photos/d41d8cd9/122197336166564135/

    * Undated | https://georgiamountainfairgrounds.com/localevents/id/493

    * Undated | https://www.flyingtroutblairsville.com/events

    * Undated | https://www.bandsintown.com/e/106340179-jessey-adams-at-misty-mountain-hops

    * Undated | https://www.blueridgemountains.com/events/karaoke-with-heather-copperhill-brewery-taproom/

    * Undated | https://www.yelp.com/biz/thirsty-turtle-beer-garden-turtletown

    Forest Service Road Conditions

    News Date: 2026-01-29

    Several Forest Service roads in the Blue Ridge Ranger District remain impassible due to heavy ice, and drivers are urged to avoid forest roads during the storm window.

    Sources

    * 2026-01-29 | https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/chattahoochee-oconee/alerts/multiple-forest-service-roads-affected-winter-weather

    Local Listen: The Royal Ghost of East Tennessee

    News Date: 2026-01-30

    A new Americana release from the show’s producer explores heritage, identity, and the ghosts that follow us home, set against the mountains around Johnson City.

    Sources

    * 2026-01-30 |

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

    Produced by RiverRun.Digital. For more local updates, 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
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    3 mins
  • The Appalachia Daily Update - January 28, 2026

    The Appalachia Daily Update - January 28, 2026
    Jan 28 2026

    News Date: 2026-01-28.1) Cherokee County, NC: State of Emergency & Hard FreezeNews Date: 2026-01-27.Cherokee County remains under a State of Emergency through 7:00 p.m. Thursday. Officials warn of dangerous black ice conditions this morning following an overnight “hard freeze.” Travel is discouraged in shaded or high-elevation areas until sun exposure improves road conditions.

    Sources:2026-01-27 | https://governor.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2026/01/25/governor-stein-and-emergency-management-officials-provide-updates-winter-storm-impacts-north

    2) Hometown Heroes: Utility and Road CrewsNews Date: 2026-01-28.This Wednesday, we recognize the tireless efforts of local utility workers and NCDOT/GDOT crews who’ve worked continuously to restore power and clear debris across Fannin, Union, and Cherokee counties.

    Sources:2026-01-26 | https://www.gpb.org/news/2026/01/26/updates-parts-of-georgia-in-icy-grip-winter-storm-rolls-through-heres-what-know

    3) Brasstown: Centennial Storytelling FinaleNews Date: 2026-01-28.Master storyteller Donald Davis concludes his three-day residency at the John C. Campbell Folk School today at 4:45 p.m.

    Sources:2026-01-07 | https://thelaurelofasheville.com/latest-news-and-updates/storyteller-donald-davis-to-appear-at-john-c-campbell-folk-school/

    4) Union County: Youth Sports Registration OpensNews Date: Undated.Registration officially opens today, January 28, for spring baseball, softball, T-ball, and volleyball through Union County Parks and Recreation.

    Sources:Undated | https://cdnsm5-hosted.civiclive.com/UserFiles/Servers/Server_1881137/File/Things%20to%20Do/Sports/2026%20Sports%20Registration%20Dates%20v2.pdf



    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
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    2 mins
  • Appalachia Daily Update — Monday, January 26, 2026

    Appalachia Daily Update — Monday, January 26, 2026
    Jan 26 2026

    Welcome back to the Appalachia Daily Update. Today we are balancing a serious winter weather emergency with a look at local business growth and specific updates for our core counties. Stay warm and stay safe, neighbors.

    Weather and Safety: State of Emergency in Cherokee County

    A local State of Emergency has been declared for Cherokee County, NC. Emergency management is warning of potentially catastrophic ice accumulations. Warming stations are active at the Detention Center lobby in Murphy and Peachtree Fire & Rescue.Sources

    * 2026-01-23 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/local-regional/state-emergency-declared-cherokee-county-ahead-storm

    * 2026-01-26 | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=35.06590&lon=-84.0993

    New Business Monday: Southern Samaritans (Andrews, NC)

    For our New Business Monday spotlight, we are welcoming Southern Samaritans to the Andrews community. Having held their official ribbon cutting on January 9, 2026, this new organization on Teas Street is dedicated to providing humanitarian aid and community-focused support services. In a month defined by winter challenges, having a new neighbor dedicated to helping those in need is a major win for the region.Sources

    * 2026-01-09 | https://allevents.in/andrews/southern-samaritans-ribbon-cutting/200029410758220

    * 2026-01-26 | https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575580895852

    Regional Closures: Monday, Jan. 26

    The following districts are closed or delayed today due to hazardous road conditions:

    * Cherokee County (NC) Schools: CLOSED

    * Fannin County (GA) Schools: CLOSED

    * Union County (GA) Schools: CLOSED

    * Clay County (NC) Schools: 2-Hour DelaySources

    * 2026-01-25 | https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/school-closings-these-districts-canceling-going-virtual-monday/7WVXQGP7YRGPVA77SJZ4HHMBSE/

    * 2026-01-26 | https://www.unioncountyga.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=111

    County & Town Spotlight: Clay, Union, Fannin, and Turtletown

    * Clay County, NC: School Board Meeting scheduled for 6:00 PM tonight. 4-H programs recently received $1,000 in matching grant funds to support youth livestock projects.

    * Union & Fannin, GA: Major resurfacing projects and infrastructure updates are slated for late January. GDOT crews have been brining roads throughout the weekend in preparation for the ice storm.

    * Turtletown, TN: Under a statewide State of Emergency issued by Gov. Bill Lee. TDOT and the Tennessee National Guard are staged for winter response to assist stranded motorists and clear debris on Highway 64.Sources

    * 2026-01-26 | https://www.clayschools.org/

    * 2026-01-24 | https://www.tn.gov/governor/news/2026/1/24/trump-administration-grants-tennessee-s-emergency-declaration-to-support-winter-weather-response.html

    * 2026-01-24 | https://www.claycountygov.com/Home/Components/News/News/550/1512

    Appalachia Daily Update is your hyper-local community newscast for the mountains of Western North Carolina and North Georgia. Produced by RiverRun.Digital. Take care of your neighbors, and they will take care of you. 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
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    3 mins
  • Appalachia Daily for January 24, 2026 - Winter Storm Emergency: The Ultimate Rural Survival Guide

    Appalachia Daily for January 24, 2026 - Winter Storm Emergency: The Ultimate Rural Survival Guide
    Jan 24 2026
    The Appalachia region is currently facing a historic winter storm. For our communities around Murphy, Blairsville, and Blue Ridge, this isn’t just about snow on the ground; it’s about significant ice accumulation that can snap power lines and leave households without electricity or water for days. When you live in rural areas, you can’t always rely on a quick response from the power company. You have to be your own first responder.This guide is designed to help you protect yourself in your house, your vehicle, and when you absolutely have to step outside.Part 1: Protecting Your Home (The “Stay In” Strategy)If the power goes out and you rely on electricity for heat and water, your home can become a freezer very quickly. Here is how to handle a long-term outage.1. The Water Crisis: Well Pumps and Gravity FlushesIf you have a well, your water pump runs on electricity. No power means no pump.* The Bucket Hack: Fill several 5-gallon buckets and place them directly next to your toilets. You can flush a toilet without a pump by pouring about two gallons of water into the bowl very quickly. The weight of the water forces the “flush” through. This is much more efficient than trying to refill the tank manually through the back.* Preserving Pressure: Before the power goes out, fill every clean pitcher, mason jar, and pot you own with drinking water. Once the pump stops, the pressure in your tank will only give you a few more gallons. Use it wisely.* Drip the Faucets: Even if the power is out, keep your faucets open slightly if you have any residual pressure. Moving water is much harder to freeze. It prevents pipes from bursting as the house cools below 32 degrees.* Hot Water Tank Reserve: In a true emergency, remember your hot water heater holds 30 to 50 gallons of relatively clean water. Most have a drain valve at the bottom.2. Heating Without a Heater: The Micro-ClimateWhen your HVAC system stops, don’t try to heat the whole house. It’s a losing battle.* The Indoor Tent: Set up a camping tent in the smallest room of your house (like a bedroom). The small space traps your body heat. Inside a tent, the air can be 10 to 15 degrees warmer than the rest of the room. If you don’t have a tent, build a “fort” out of blankets over a table.* Closing Off Rooms: Use towels or pool noodles to block the gaps under doors. Hang heavy blankets or even plastic sheeting over windows and doorways to keep the heat in one “survival room.”* Layer Up: Wear wool or synthetic layers. Avoid cotton if you get sweaty, as it will make you colder. Remember: “Cotton is rotten” in winter survival.* Safety Warning: Never use outdoor propane heaters, charcoal grills, or gas ovens to heat your home. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer and collects in enclosed spaces. If you use a wood stove, make sure your chimney was swept recently to avoid flue fires.3. Food Safety: Freezer Thermal MassRural neighbors often have freezers full of local meat. Protecting that investment is critical.* Freezer Tetris: A full freezer stays frozen for 48 hours. A half-full one only lasts 24.* Ice Batteries: Right now, fill every empty gap in your freezer with jugs of water. Leave an inch of space at the top so the ice can expand. As they freeze, they create “thermal mass.” If the power goes out, these ice blocks keep your food cold for much longer.* Group Your Food: If the outage lasts more than 24 hours, move the most expensive items (like beef and venison) to the very center of the freezer, surrounded by your new “ice batteries.”* Keep it Closed: Every time you open the freezer to “check,” you lose precious cold air. Leave it shut. If you need to know the temperature, use a wireless thermometer if you have one.4. Power and Generators: The Back-Feeding DangerGenerators are great, but they can be deadly if used incorrectly.* No Back-Feeding: NEVER plug a generator into a wall outlet to power your house. This sends electricity back into the grid lines. It can kill a utility worker trying to fix the storm damage down the street. It’s not just a rule; it’s a life-or-death matter for the crews.* Placement: Keep your generator at least 20 feet away from the house. Exhaust can seep through windows or under doors. Rain and ice can also cause electrical shorts, so use a “generator tent” or a specific cover designed for operation in wet weather.* Appliance Priority: Don’t try to run the whole house. Prioritize the fridge, a single lamp, and charging devices. Heavy draws like space heaters will burn through your fuel too fast.Part 2: Your Vehicle (The “Get Home” Strategy)In the mountains, our roads are winding, steep, and often the last to be plowed.* The 4WD Myth: Four-wheel drive helps you go; it does not help you stop. On ice, everyone is equal. If you don’t have weight in the back of your truck, add sandbags or even bags of salt over the rear axle to improve traction.* The Car Kit: Keep blankets, a small shovel, a ...
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    4 mins
  • Appalachia Daily Update — Friday, January 23, 2026

    Appalachia Daily Update — Friday, January 23, 2026
    Jan 23 2026

    Weather Alert: State of Emergency Declared

    Governor Stein has declared a State of Emergency for North Carolina ahead of a winter storm. We expect rain to transition into freezing rain and sleet starting Saturday morning in Area 1. Dangerous wind chills are forecasted for Monday. Use today to prepare and stay off the roads once the ice begins to accumulate.

    Sources

    2026-01-23 | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Murphy&state=NC

    2026-01-21 | https://governor.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2026/01/21/governor-stein-declares-state-emergency-ahead-winter-storm

    Soundcheck Friday: Weekend Live Music

    The mountains are full of music tonight. Here is the local lineup:

    * Blairsville: Mike Lane at The Flying Trout (6–9 PM).

    * Blue Ridge: Weekend sets at Grumpy Old Men Brewing (7–9 PM).

    * Murphy: Hunter Flanagan at The Mason Bar.

    Sources

    2026-01-23 | https://www.flyingtroutblairsville.com/events

    2026-01-22 | https://grumpyoldmenbrewing.com/music%2Fevents

    2026-01-23 | https://www.facebook.com/themasonbar/

    New Music: “Dirt Road Dreams” by D.Wayne Anthony

    Local artist D.Wayne Anthony has released a soulful new track that captures the spirit of our backroads. It is a tribute to the history and freedom found in every bend of the mountain gravel.

    Sources

    2026-01-23 | https://music.Riverrun.digital/Dirt-Road-Dreams

    2026-01-23 | https://music.Riverrun.digital/WayneAnthony

    Community & Sports

    * Brasstown: Bluegrass Week kicks off Monday at the John C. Campbell Folk School.

    * Basketball: Fannin County Rebels (18-1) continue their dominant run while Union County preps for a heavy-hitting regional matchup.

    Sources

    2026-01-21 | https://www.folkschool.org/events/

    2026-01-22 | https://www.maxpreps.com/ga/blue-ridge/fannin-county-rebels/basketball/



    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
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    4 mins
  • Appalachia Daily Update — Thursday, January 22, 2026

    Appalachia Daily Update — Thursday, January 22, 2026
    Jan 22 2026

    Weather & Safety: Sunny and Mild

    It’s a “Chamber of Commerce” weather day for Murphy and Blue Ridge, with sunshine and highs in the 50s.

    * Safety Check: Fire danger is currently low, but dry air and low humidity mean extra caution with outdoor burning.

    * Sources:

    * 2026-01-22 | https://products.climate.ncsu.edu/fwip/nc_danger/

    * Undated | https://weatherspark.com/h/m/15680/2026/1/Historical-Weather-in-January-2026-in-Blue-Ridge-Georgia-United-States

    Rivalry Night: Murphy @ Robbinsville

    The Murphy Bulldogs travel to Graham County tonight to face the Robbinsville Black Knights.

    * Details: Boys Varsity listed for 8:30 p.m. Expect a capacity crowd.

    * Sources:

    * 2026-01-22 | https://www.maxpreps.com/nc/murphy/murphy-bulldogs/basketball/schedule/

    Sports Recap: Fannin County Wins Big

    The Fannin County Rebels boys basketball team picked up a decisive win over Armuchee on Wednesday.

    * Scoreboard: Fannin County 68, Armuchee 25.

    * Sources:

    * 2026-01-21 | https://www.maxpreps.com/ga/blue-ridge/fannin-county-rebels/basketball/

    Local Legend: Donald Davis at Folk School

    Renowned storyteller Donald Davis will be performing next week (Jan 26–28) as part of the John C. Campbell Folk School’s Centennial.

    * Why it matters: Davis is a cornerstone of Appalachian oral tradition. Performances are free and open to the public.

    * Sources:

    * 2026-01-22 | https://www.folkschool.org/events/centennial-celebration/

    * 2026-01-07 | https://thelaurelofasheville.com/latest-news-and-updates/storyteller-donald-davis-to-appear-at-john-c-campbell-folk-school/

    Community: Thursday Night Karaoke

    Grumpy Old Men Brewing in Blue Ridge hosts their weekly Karaoke night tonight.

    * Sources:

    * 2026-01-22 | https://www.blueridgemountains.com/events/

    Produced by RiverRun.Digital. Taking care of neighbors, one update at a time.

    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
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    4 mins