Local

Fancy Feast

Robbinsville – In a season full of ultra-rarities, a Monday afternoon junior varsity football game in the spring might take the cake. But in the face of the unusual hand they were dealt, the Robbinsville Black Knights laid down a royal flush.
The Lady Knights’ varsity cheerleaders perform their virtual, state routine Sunday at Robbinsville High School. Photos by Kevin Hensley/editor@grahamstar.com

The Lady Knights’ varsity cheerleaders perform their virtual, state routine Sunday at Robbinsville High School. Photos by Kevin Hensley/editor@grahamstar.com

They’ve got spirit; how about you?

Robbinsville – What would normally be prepped for with weeks – even months – of preparation instead occurred after just two practices. Welcome to the N.C. Cheerleading Coaches Association’s yearly competition, in the COVID-19 era.

Shining brighter than the diamond

Robbinsville – It’s been a while. But after 22 months without playing an official game on its home field, the Robbinsville varsity softball program has finally gotten back on the diamond. “I’m so thankful for every day that we get to be out here,” said Lady Knights head coach Billy Knight.
Black Knights quarterback Nathan Collins (5) leaves Cherokee’s Chase Calhoun (8) in the dust during Saturday’s home game against the Braves. Collins had two rushing touchdowns in Robbinsville’s 35-14 victory. Photo by Art Miller/amiller@grahamstar.com

Black Knights quarterback Nathan Collins (5) leaves Cherokee’s Chase Calhoun (8) in the dust during Saturday’s home game against the Braves. Collins had two rushing touchdowns in Robbinsville’s 35-14 victory. Photo by Art Miller/amiller@grahamstar.com

Saturday Knight delight

Robbinsville – Line the opposition up, and Robbinsville keeps taking them down. The Black Knights (4-0, 3-0) shut out the Cherokee Braves (1-3, 1-3) for the entire first half of a special Saturday showcase, compiling another convincing win in the process, 35-14.
Defense attorney Rich Cassady (left) speaks with his client, Jackie Slaughter, at trial last week in the Cherokee County Courthouse. Photo courtesy of Quintin Ellison Photography

Defense attorney Rich Cassady (left) speaks with his client, Jackie Slaughter, at trial last week in the Cherokee County Courthouse. Photo courtesy of Quintin Ellison Photography

Slaughter convicted of lesser charge in Cherokee

By Penny Ray Cherokee Scout Murphy – On each day of the trial charging Jackie Slaughter with attempted murder, the judge instructed jurors not to research media reports about the defendant’s past.

Several indicted during superior court term

Robbinsville – Superior Court took place in Graham County in late February and early March, with 23 indictments being handed down, some for crimes going back as far as 2019:  * Robert Michael Phillips, 33 of Robbinsville, was indicted three times for separate incidents, including possession of a...

New diversion program begins operation in county

A new program aims to help residents of Graham County who have been in trouble with the law – and are dealing with substance issues – get back on their feet.  For approximately two months, a grant-funded Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion program has been operating in the county.

Commissioners hear mural presentation

Robbinsville – The local revitalization organization REVVED UP gave its pitch for two possible murals for downtown Robbinsville to the Graham County Board of Commissioners at its March 16 meeting.

Superintendent talks return to school

Robbinsville – Following Gov. Roy Cooper’s decision to move toward full-time in-person school statewide, Graham County Schools made some changes to its current instructional plans.
Joseph Pressley was apprehended by Graham County sheriff’s deputies at the Robbinsville Shell station March 17, after allegedly cutting catalytic converters off several county vehicles. Photo by Neal Wachob/The Graham Star

Joseph Pressley was apprehended by Graham County sheriff’s deputies at the Robbinsville Shell station March 17, after allegedly cutting catalytic converters off several county vehicles. Photo by Neal Wachob/The Graham Star

Man arrested after alleged theft, shoplifting

Robbinsville – A Marble man was arrested in Robbinsville on March 17, after allegedly stealing catalytic converters from Graham County vehicles and later shoplifting from a local convenience store.