10 years ago
* A high-speed motorcycle chase on U.S. Highway 129 resulted in the arrest of 37-year-old Indiana resident Don Lee Fristsch. Sheriff’s officer Ty Gibbs was patrolling the Cheoah River when the bike passed him at a high rate of speed on a double yellow line. The chase continued for ¼ mile before the rider realized that he was headed into a dead-end. Gibbs took him into custody. Under the N.C. felony flee and elude statute, the Graham County Sheriff’s Office was able to seize the motorcycle.
* According to Robbinsville’s new basketball coach Tommy Johnson he was looking forward to the opportunity that was waiting at Robbinsville High School. Johnson also coached the Pisgah Bears in 2008 and led the team to the N.C. High School Athletic Association 2A championship game. He compiled a 37-16 record in the two years that he was with the Black Bears. Johnson said that he has no qualms about coming to a small 1A school. “Coaches have to work together when it’s a small school and when it’s your season, support each other,” said Johnson.
25 years ago
* The demolition of the old rock high school continued and required a controlled burn. Several Graham County volunteer fire departments kept the fire under control, as they watched over rubble being burned in the shell of the building. Large beams and wood debris were consumed by the burn. Contractor Steve Jordan, owner of Jordan Stone, made a $500 donation to the Graham County Volunteer Fire Departments. The fire continued to burn into night two.
* Robbinsville wrestlers were named “King of the Mountains” champs, after competing in the Strong and Courageous Wrestling club at East Henderson High School in Hendersonville. The tournament consisted of clubs from throughout the state of North Carolina, as well as Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia and Virginia. More than 300 wrestlers competed in three different styles.
-Diane West