Date: July 23, 2026
Hayesville Teacher Earns Worldwide Recognition
Erin McCoy of Hayesville Middle School has been named one of only three Participate Learning Teachers of the Year for 2026. The honor recognizes her work leading Global Leaders initiatives that help students link classroom learning to future careers.
Sources:
2026-07-01 | https://www.themountainbuzz.com/post/hayesville-teacher-named-one-of-three-worldwide-participate-learning-teachers-of-the-year
New Playground Opens Friday in Clay County
The Clay County Regional Sports Complex will hold a grand opening for its new playground this Friday, July 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Families are invited to come try it out.
Sources:
2026-07 | https://business.claychambernc.com/calendar/Details/grand-opening-clay-county-recreational-park-playground-1850662
Blue Ridge Street Work Coming to Blairsville
The City of Blairsville will begin resurfacing Blue Ridge Street next month. Motorists should expect temporary traffic disruption in the downtown area while the project is underway.
Sources:
2026-07-22 | https://www.nganews.com/
Ice Hockey Training Arrives in Blairsville
The Sticks Ice Arena, a private facility owned by Don Whalen, is now offering learn-to-skate lessons and hockey training for youth and adults. The 40-by-80-foot rink opened in November 2025 and fills a long gap in local access to ice sports.
Sources:
2026-07-22 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/sports/sticks-brings-hockey-area
Green Bean Festival Returns This Weekend
Downtown Blairsville’s Green Bean Festival is back July 25 and 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Historic Courthouse square. Admission is free.
Sources:
2026-07 | https://www.downtownblairsvillega.com/events/green-bean-festival
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