10 years ago
* Teacher of the Year Kevin White was elected as Robbinsville Middle School’s newest principal. “I’ve loved being a teacher and will miss that interaction with the students,” White said. “I just feel as principal, I’ll have even more opportunity to help, not just the students, but teachers as well.” He was definitely looking forward to the challenge. “We have an extremely dedicated staff. Doesn’t get much better than that,” said White. Update: White still works for Graham County Schools today, serving as the district’s facilities director.
* As the Black Knight football team geared up for the season, coach Dee Walsh was very happy with what he saw on the gridiron. The Knights were loaded with skilled players who could fill about anywhere on the field. “We may have to get creative about some things, but I think we can overcome any shortfall,” said Walsh. “If they want to win, we will find a way to make it happen. We’ve had a core group working hard in the gym all summer.”
25 years ago
ν Tammy Buchanan – one of Graham County’s six original paramedics – also held the distinction of being the only female paramedic. She brought a unique kind of compassion to her job, as she was a mother of four and had a tendency to “mother” her colleagues, as well as patients. Since her son’s passing in 1995, Buchanan had maintained her personal dedication to her job, stating that her continued work that began as a “labor of love” for her son, helped her in helping others. “I know that I was meant to do this job,” Buchanan said.
ν More than 40,000 people filled Charlotte, as the city hosted the 31st Annual Junior Olympics, America’s largest youth sports gathering. As many as 12,000 young athletes would compete for medals in 24 sporting events. Among those athletes were Robbinsville standouts Randy Wachacha, Carandee Wachacha, Randy Rich, Kevin Rich (karate), as well as Ramie Williams (wrestling).
-Compiled by Diane West