Braden Rumfelt, shown with microphone in his left hand, performs during a concert in Murphy on Friday. Photo by Bill Belian/Contributing photographer
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
MURPHY – American Idol Season 24 finalist and Murphy resident Braden Rumfelt treated his hometown to a free serenade Friday, June 12 at Konehete Veterans Park.For fans, hints of severe weather yielded a warm and not-too wet welcome.
Cherokee County Sheriff Chris Wood, center, holds a news conference to announce a deputy-involved shooting in the Peachtree community on June 11. Flanking him are, from left, Narcotics Det. Parker Southard, Lt. Nathan Henderson, Lt. Drew Payne and Narcotics Agent Hunter Wood.
Laura Lachance, retired executive director of Murphy's Main Street Program, cuts the ribbon dedicating the new Downtown Square and Stage.
Murphy native and American Idol contestant Braden Rumfelt sings during season 24 of the show.
Cherokee Language Repertory Choir
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The Brasstown Ringers’ first benefit concert will begin at 5 p.m. Sunday at First United Methodist Church, 66 Harrison Ave. in Franklin.
Bart Harrison competes in bowling singles at the 2026 Cherokee/Clay Senior Games on May 28.
Kimber Vaught of Andrews was named Smoky Mountain Conference All-Conference. Pictured is Vaught kicking the ball downfield against Blue Ridge Early College on March 10.
Murphy High School soccer will be hosting a youth soccer camp on June 23-25. Pictured is Lady Bulldog Leah Beebe taking a shot against Hayesville on April 27.
