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 dedicated crews are protecting our forests and communities with boots on the ground and long hours.
Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Responds to Ranger Shooting
On April 18, deputies responded to a disturbance and shooting at a convenience store near US 129 and US 64 in the Ranger community outside Murphy. One man with a gunshot wound was airlifted to Gainesville, Georgia; another was treated locally. Officials quickly confirmed no continued threat to neighbors. Our law enforcement and EMS teams moved fast and professionally.
Clay County Fire & Rescue Heroes Battle Multiple Structure Fires
Clay County Fire & Rescue responded to two separate residential structure fires and 44 total calls last week, including medical emergencies and brush fires. As of April 27 the county remains in “Very High” fire danger status. Firefighters and 911 dispatchers, proudly recognized as the first first responders, are keeping Hayesville and all of Clay County safe during peak spring risk.
Murphy Awarded Over $5 Million for Wastewater Resiliency
The Town of Murphy received a major grant for wastewater system improvements. Posted April 17, the funding will upgrade critical infrastructure to better handle storms, support growth, and protect local waterways. It’s a practical, long-term investment that benefits every resident.
Blue Ridge Pushes Major Downtown Hotel; Ducktown and EBCI See Wins
Blue Ridge in Fannin County, Georgia is advancing plans for a 160-room downtown hotel after a community input session, along with Blue Ridge Drive construction. Ducktown and Polk County have been working on EMS contracts and infrastructure. On the EBCI Qualla Boundary, the first Qualla Enterprises per capita payments were issued April 20, delivering direct economic benefits to tribal members. Progress is happening across our broader Appalachian region.
Supporter Spotlight
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Sources
U.S. Forest Service / National Forests in NC Facebook updates (April 18, 2026) and WLOS/Fox Carolina reporting
Local3News.com – Cherokee County shooting article (April 20, 2026)
Clay County Fire & Rescue official site and Facebook (April 24–27, 2026)
Town of Murphy official website – wastewater grant post (April 17, 2026)
The News Observer (Blue Ridge/Fannin County coverage, April 15, 2026) and EBCI official site (April 20 per capita announcement)
Where to listen
Full audio and archives https://adu.riverrun.digital
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