Local

Largest single-week surge hits Graham

Kevin Hensley
Thursday, August 19, 2021
As the Delta variant continues to throw an added wrinkle into the 18-month battle against COVID-19, Graham County has not been immune from the surge. The data released Monday from the county’s health department reported 788 positive cases, marking an increase of 43 since Monday, Aug. 9.

County EMS director resigns

Charlie Benton
Thursday, August 19, 2021
Graham County will soon be without an EMS director, as the Delta Variant continues to take its toll.  County Manager Jason Marino and County Clerk Kim Crisp confirmed that Graham County EMS Director Larry Hembree had tendered his resignation letter last week, and will step down Sept. 30.
Taylor Hicks – who won Season 5 of “American Idol” will perform at Modeal Walsh Memorial Stadium in Robbinsville on May 7, 2022.

Taylor Hicks – who won Season 5 of “American Idol” will perform at Modeal Walsh Memorial Stadium in Robbinsville on May 7, 2022.

“American Idol” winner coming to Graham County

Koda Moody
Thursday, August 19, 2021
Robbinsville – It was announced last week that an “American Idol” winner will be performing locally next year.  Taylor Hicks won Season 5 of the vastly-popular talent show, launching his career as a famous musician.
Eight days after a fire destroyed the Stecoah Diner, officials are still trying to determine what started the blaze. Photo by Kevin Hensley/editor@grahamstar.com

Eight days after a fire destroyed the Stecoah Diner, officials are still trying to determine what started the blaze. Photo by Kevin Hensley/editor@grahamstar.com

Wiring being explored as cause of fire

Kevin Hensley
Wednesday, August 11, 2021
Stecoah – Investigators are still trying to narrow down the culprit behind a fire that destroyed a long-time staple of the community. Around 9:30 p.m. Aug. 2, crews from seven different fire departments – in two counties – were dispatched to the Stecoah Diner on U.S. 28 North.
Though sparsely attended, the Stecoah School Reunion returned Saturday, after a one-year absence. Photos by Art Miller/amiller@grahamstar.com

Though sparsely attended, the Stecoah School Reunion returned Saturday, after a one-year absence. Photos by Art Miller/amiller@grahamstar.com

Those were the days

Charlie Benton
Wednesday, August 11, 2021
Stecoah – It was a happy reunion for all.  Alumni from the former Stecoah School gathered Saturday to reminisce about their time attending the old school, which was closed for consolidation in 1994 after 68 years of operation.