Aug. 15, 2013
* Dr. Patricia Johnson was recognized by Mission Medical Associates as being in the top 10 percent in the nation for patient approval. Only 17 positions out of 700 received the award, which placed Johnson in an elite field of professionals. “I wasn’t expecting this at all, I’m so far behind these days, I hardly know if I’m coming or going,” said Johnson.
* The Black Knights looked tough in a preseason scrimmage, as Robbinsville proved that they could compete with the big boys at Tuscola. Black Knight coach Dee Walsh was more interested in getting some experience for his lineman than scores. The next scrimmage would be at Smoky Mountain High School, featuring Robbinsville, Hayesville, Smoky Mountain and Madison.
Aug. 15, 2002
* Graham County native Rita Mathis was found stabbed to death on the dirt road she often used as a walking trail in Chinle, Ariz. Mathis’ throat was slashed, and she was stabbed three times in the chest and back. Mathis had recently learned about a traveling nurses program that helped areas in need of health care. The first place she was sent was Chinle, after living her entire life in Graham County.
* Two residents of Graham County were arrested and charged in a recent string of burglaries in Swain and Macon counties. Wayne Bailey and Russell “Bud” McCracken faced charges in Graham County for possession of stolen goods and obtaining property under false pretenses, while Swain and Macon counties were pressing charges for breaking and entering and larceny. Some of the stolen property was recovered from those who the property had been sold to.
Aug. 15, 1996
* Former Town of Lake Santeetlah Clerk Noel Marsh was alleged to have embezzled funds, according to Santeetlah’s finance officer Jack Hinson. Marsh was charged with 19 counts of embezzlement. Areas of concern Henson outlined were: a federal grant; the alleged theft of money through use of an assessment account; and Marsh’s alleged use of three cell phones. The federal grant was a money-laundering operation that Marsh was alleged to have been involved with. Marsh was also suspected of receiving a grant called “Cops On The Street” on behalf of the town, unknown to the council.
* The Graham County Soil and Water Conservation District – which had been troubled with allegations of improper procedures and documentation – had undergone administrative and personnel changes over the past few months. After following guidelines of the district’s new personnel policy, Wanda Lee Jackson of Robbinsville was hired as a temporary secretary. Jackson assumed Karen Wilson’s position, a vacancy created when Wilson took a 90-day medical leave. The district was also advertising for a technician to replace Keith Orr, who resigned May 21.
-Compiled by Diane West