State candidates make appeals to voters. 8-9 grahamstar.comThe Graham Star@thegrahamstar Since 1955, your connection to Fontana, Robbinsville, Santeetlah, Snowbird, Stecoah, Sweetwater, Tallulah and Yellow Creek Robbinsville, noRth CaRolina thuRsday, oCtobeR 8, 2020 vol. 66, no. 16 – 75¢ Graham pivots to “Plan C” Sudden switch forced by county’s rise in COVID-19 cases n County health director speaks out, The move was necessitated by that time, we plan to monitor the sit- page 5. several cases that have been con- uation, work hand in hand with the firmed in the school system. As health department and do everything By Kevin Hensley noted by a release issued by the Gra- we can to make sure we get our kids [email protected] ham County Health Department on back to school. Monday, positive cases have created “What we need you to do, families Robbinsville – Instead of taking a snowball effect: cases are identi- and the community is make sure one step forward, Graham County fied, which leads to those exposed you do what you’re supposed to do North Carolina Statistics Schools are being forced to take two being tested and quarantined. As a to help us get there. We need you to steps back. result, staff system-wide is becom- wash your hands. We need you to n Laboratory-Confirmed Cases: 219,754 Just two weeks removed from the ing depleted at a rapid pace, and socially distance. We need you to n Deaths: 3,637 announcement that Robbinsville El- there are simply not enough substi- keep your families at home, so that n Completed Tests: 3,188,371 ementary School students would be tutes available to fill the voids. we can control the spread and get allowed to return under “Plan A” – “Due to the community spread of back to normal.” Graham County Statistics which, among all other precautions, coronavirus and the high numbers Knight added that the tentative n does not limit class size – Graham that we’re seeing around the com- plan is for Graham County students Positive Tests Completed: 206 n County Schools Superintendent An- munity that have trickled indirectly to return to in-person instruction Negative Tests Completed: 2,779 n gie Knight announced Monday that into the school system, we have Monday, Oct. 26. Awaiting Results: 50 n effective immediately, all campuses chosen to go ahead and do remote- As of Tuesday, the county had Deaths: 5 would be moving toward “Plan C” – learning for three weeks,” Knight n Data as of 12:30 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 6 remote learning only. said in a Facebook video. “During Cases See page 10 One year later, Crews still no answers locate FBI now conducting investigation on lost man By Marshall McClung foresnic photographer’s drowning The Graham Star By Kevin Hensley surrounding [email protected] Kathleen’s Cherohala – A man demise in was rescued Monday Big Santeetlah – Even Novem- afternoon on the up- though a year has passed, ber 2019. per reaches of Huffman there are still few answers Through Creek, after making available on the drowning multiple a wrong turn with his death of a Federal Bureau interviews Art Miller/[email protected] vehicle. of Investigation forensic with various Miller N.C. Department of Transportation, Division 14 representatives Wanda Austin, Dirk Graham County 911 photographer in Graham agencies, Cody and Brian Burch (clockwise, from left) address a question raised by Stecoah dispatchers were made County. Greg Miller has continu- resident Jamie Lail at Tuesday’s Corridor K public hearing. aware of a man stuck in Authorities deemed the ally made conflicting state- a rough place on a dirt death of 60-year-old Kath- ments about what trans- road around 3:30 p.m leen Polce Miller “suspi- pired. ‘What we need is comments’ Graham County Rescue cious,” one week after she However, that’s where Squad personnel – in- was discovered facedown the latest information ends cluding some members in Big Santeetlah Creek for Graham County Sheriff DOT officials meet with Stecoah residents from the Snowbird unit on Oct. 7, 2019, by her Jerry Crisp. A captain on By Kevin Hensley 14 representatives met in Graham County and – responded to the call. husband, Greg Miller. He the force at the time of [email protected] with Stecoah residents for before the work can Tory Lynnes reached was the last person to see Kathleen’s death, Crisp a 40-minute public hear- begin, a 30-day public the man – whose Kathleen alive. headed up the local portion Stecoah – It was not so ing over the Corridor K comment period – which name was unavailable The FBI – under pres- of the investigation. much met with opposi- project Tuesday evening. ends Friday, Oct. 30 – is – around 4:45 p.m., sure by Kathleen’s co- “Initially, they (the FBI) tion; rather, it was met The much-discussed, underway. followed shortly by Jack workers – finally assigned just jumped in with both with questions. seemingly never-ending Only about a dozen Jackson, Brenda Postell an agent to help inves- N.C. Department of plan has now finished tigate the circumstances Drowning See page 10 Transportation, Division environmental testing Corridor K See page 10 Lost See page 10

Readers’ Choice ballot winner Sheriff ’s office launches security camera prevention program By Kevin Hensley Graham County sheriff’s Lt. Jim Hyde [email protected] said. “Police investigations frequently in- volve officers canvassing neighborhoods Want to help put a stop to nefarious surrounding a crime scene for security crimes? cameras. The Graham County Sheriff’s Of- “Knowing where they are located fice has launched a camera registration greatly speeds up investigations by al- program, where residences, businesses lowing officers to prioritize where to or places of worship can allow the office begin looking for evidence. Many times, permission to view security camera foot- the best available video evidence is not age that may be pertinent to solving an of the crime scene itself, but of pathways investigation. The program is voluntary and streets leading into and out of the and free to join. crime scene.” Brittany Davis/The Graham Star “In the event of a critical incident The office hopes to build a strong, Joyce Brooks was the lucky winner of The Graham Star’s Readers’ Choice ballot or criminal investigation, business or countywide database and will only drawing. Thanks to her entry, Brooks was awarded $65 by Graham Star publisher/ residential security cameras may capture editor Kevin Hensley. evidence essential to solving a case,” Security See page 10

Printed on 100 Index Inside percent recycled BRIEFS...... 2 Stecoah resident authors newsprint LOCAL HISTORY...... 2 second book. 2 OPINIONS...... 4-5 ARRESTS...... 6 Graham County Schools OBITUARIES...... 6 buckling down on remote- FAITH DIRECTORY...... 7 learning attendance. 3 CROSSWORD...... 9 BUSINESS DIRECTORY....11 Tri-County College receives CLASSIFIEDS...... 11 high honor. 3 © 2020 The Graham Star/Community Newspapers Inc. Page 10 • The Graham Star F rom the Front Thursday, October 8, 2020 Security: Could Cases: Younger help solve cases age group has Continued from front page access the cameras on an highest positive as-needed basis. Registra- tion information is kept rate in county confidential and will only Continued from front page be viewed by sheriff’s topped over 200 cases – personnel during an inves- with 206 confirmed – and tigation. has had five deaths, all “Video cameras are women in the last two increasingly being used months. at both residential and The county health commercial properties, department’s latest gender to prevent crime and to and age update available memorialize events as they before The Graham Star’s occur,” Hyde added. “As deadline – released Sept. such, video evidence has Art Miller/[email protected] 30 – revealed that each became extremely helpful Members of the Graham County Board of Commissioners and public alike listen intently to Dirk Cody’s explanation COVID-related death in in solving crimes, identify- of the latest plans for Corridor K at Tuesday’s public hearing. Graham can be attributed ing perpetrators and serves to those in the population as valuable evidence in Corridor K: Stretches between Dillsboro and Chattanooga ages 65 and older. Ages court.” Continued from front page cussed. Travelers who turn onto Gap and Sweetwater Road into Rob- 25-49 make up the largest Those interested in members of the public attended the N.C. 28 South to enter Stecoah will binsville. portion of positive cases, registering can stop by the hearing, with the format quickly often reach excessive speed, due to At the point where the Appala- at 29 percent. sheriff’s office, 400 Rod- devolving into a Q&A session, as the steep downhill grade the layout chian Trail crosses N.C. 143, the ney Orr Bypass. topics such as loss of residence presents. The current paperwork project will see the installation of Bond reduced Officers will need the to the availability of lanes were available shows that the speed limit a land bridge over the roadway, al- following information: brought up. will be 50 miles per hour. lowing hikers and wildlife alike to for Orr n Name One member asked why the road “I live on that stretch. The motor- safely cross without fear of being n Address (Including could not be four-lane throughout, cycles do 65, 70 (miles per hour) struck by motorists. The land bridge business name) with Division Engineer Brian Burch and if you’ve got that much space, was met positively by those in at- n Contact information noting that studies between 2017-18 it’s going to be even worse,” one tendance Tuesday night. n Length of video stor- showed that the amount of traffic resident predicted. The road will also expand to four age your system allows that flowed through the path simply “We’re going with a design that lanes at Stecoah Gap, with 12-foot n Coverage of security did not warrant four lanes. should help minimize that,” re- shoulders and a tiered retaining wall camera on your premises “That’s something that we looked sponded Division 14 Project Devel- that will be planted with foliage. Additionally, the office at,” Burch explained. “Anytime we opment Engineer Wanda Austin. Also included in the proposal is a notes that cameras can be do a project, we have to look at the Those in attendance could also walking path that will follow N.C. mounted on private-prop- traffic forecast, generally 20 years peruse eight different maps, pieced 28 in Stecoah – with guardrails to erty only. out. When we did that, it only war- together to show the preliminary separate pedestrians from vehicles – Lost: Truck stuck ranted two lanes, but because we plans for the project from its eastern and sidewalks from the Robbinsville Art Miller/ had issues with the grades, plus big terminus in Wolf Creek to its west- High School entrance on N.C. 143 [email protected] for 24 hours trucks, construction equipment and ern terminus in Robbinsville. Plans to the intersection with U.S. 129. Travis Wesley Orr, 32, Continued from front page tourists, we could justify putting in for how Corridor K will proceed All told, nine residences and five appeared in Graham and Sierra Jones. that climbing/passing lane. once it reaches Robbinsville will be businesses will have to re-locate County District Court Lynnes said the man‘s “When we looked at moving U.S. examined at the conclusion of the because of the project. on Tuesday, regarding vehicle was partially out 74 to this facility (the road that cur- current project. The current, estimated cost of the charges of breaking of the road and that he rently goes through the Nantahala latest step in the Corridor K project and entering, larceny understood that the man Gorge) and imagining that it ran all Improvements is $130,606,888, with right-of-way after breaking/enter- had been stuck there since the way from Stecoah to Andrews, As of right now, the plan is to be- acquisitions set to begin on the Rob- ing and possession of sometime the day before. the forecast still did not warrant a gin widening N.C. 28 at Wolf Creek binsville end of the expansion in a stolen motor vehicle, The man had thought that four-lane highway.” General Store – with a final size of Sept. 2021. in connection with a the road would take him to “Nothing says that when this is two, 12-foot lanes, tucked between Construction is forecasted to begin Aug. 1 crime spree Tellico Plains in Tennes- built, we can’t start lobbying for 10-foot shoulders – and passing/ in Aug. 2022 and should take around that stretched through see. something else,” added Division 14 climbing lanes alternated throughout three years to complete. both Cherokee and Lynnes pulled his ve- Board Member Dirk Cody. “If you the path, which will follow the same Another public hearing is sched- Graham counties. Orr’s hicle back into the road never build anything, you never get route that sees N.C. 28 intersect with uled for today, 5 p.m. at the Graham bond was reduced to and got him turned the cor- to move on to the next thing.” N.C. 143. Travelers will then turn County Community Building (196 $15,000, but he remains rect direction by 5:10 p.m. The speed limit was also dis- onto N.C. 143, follow over Stecoah Knight Street). in custody. Drowning: Victim found in shallow water Continued from front page room near the campsite to feet,” Crisp said. “They find his wife in the creek, wanted copies of every- which measured less than thing I’ve got, which I 22 inches in depth at the gave them. They start do- site of the drowning, ac- ing interviews, and I asked cording to a preliminary for copies of the inter- autopsy. He then ran to views they did with him in flag down a motorist, who Alabama. called for emergency per- “I was told they would sonnel around 5:17 p.m. get them right to me, but She was later pro- to this day I have not seen nounced dead at the scene. them.” Initially, the Graham Crisp also has not County Sheriff’s Office, received the final autopsy. N.C. State Bureau of He still believes enough Investigation, U.S. Forest information has been gath- Service and District Attor- ered to press charges. ney’s office collaborated “If I can take everything on the investigation. I’ve got, plus everything The Millers lived in they’ve got, put it all Huntsville, Ala. After together and go meet with Kathleen’s death, neigh- my district attorney, I bors of the couple later think I’ve got enough for received what proved to be charges,” Crisp added. fictitious notices from the Greg Miller told authori- “Huntsville Police Depart- ties he returned from a ment,” asking for tips on five-minute trip to the rest- Kathleen’s death. B1

Thursday, October 8, 2020 The Graham Star • Page 11

REAL ESTATE RENTALS ceased, late of Graham make immediate payment. County, State of North Caroli- CREDITORS NOTICE CREDITOR'S NOTICE This 24th day of September, Crisp Collision Repair, body na, this is to notify all persons Estate of Eric Thomas Hardi- ESTATE OF ROBERT G. 2020. work, auto painting, insurance Robin Ridge Apartments, 1 BD having claims against the es- son File # 20 E 79 CUSHMAN Mary C. Weaver, Fiduciary handling, rust repair, frame re- Having qualified as the Having qualified as Fiduciary apartments available for elderly pair, paintless dent removal tate of said deceased to ex- of the Estate of and handicapped, 62 years of and windshield replacement. hibit them to the undersigned Administrator of the Estate of of the Estate of Robert G. Robert G. Cushman, age and older. Rent based on Call (828) 321-3024 at the following address: ERIC THOMAS HARDISON, Cushman, late of Graham deceased 30% of income under the Sec- [email protected] tion 8 program. EHO. 479- Christopher Pickering and late of Graham County, State County, State of North Caroli- (600490) 3789. Gregory Pickering, c/o Brady of North Carolina, this is to na, this is to notify all persons C. Cody, Esq., Cody Law notify all persons having having claims against the Es- Group, PO Box 2120, 5 N. claims against the Estate of tate of said deceased to ex- CREDITORS NOTICE Main St., Robbinsville, N.C. said deceased to exhibit hibit them to the undersigned Boat storage. Enclosed, ESTATE OF 28771 on or before the 16th them to the undersigned at at the following address: Place your locked building at a gated prop- CHARLES WILLIAMS th erty in Andrews, N.C. $75 a day of December 2020, or the following address: PEG- 1440 6 St. circle NW, Hicko- month. (828) 361-2357. FILE # 20 E 78 this Notice will be pleaded in GY GRAY HARDISON 992 ry, North Carolina 28601, on AD HERE! Having qualified as the Ad- bar of their recovery. All per- OLD SWEETWATER RD., or before the 23rd day of De- WEST MINI-STORAGE, Classified Deadline ministrator of the Estate of ROBBINSVILLE, NC 28771, cember, 2020 or this notice 81 Five Points Road 828-479- sons indebted to said dece- is 5 P.M. Monday 3279 or 828-735-4842 Charles Williams, late of Gra- dent will please make imme- on or before December 27, will be pleaded in bar of their EMPLOYMENT ham County, State of North diate payment. 2020 or this notice will be recovery. All persons indebt- Graham Star Carolina, this is to notify all This 17th day of September pleaded in bar of their recov- ed to said estate will please 828.479.3383 persons having claims 2020 ery. make immediate payment. against the Estate of said de- Christopher Pickering and All persons indebted to said ceased to exhibit them to the Gregory Pickering estate will please make im- undersigned at the following Administrators of the Estate mediate payment. Commercial seamstress need- th ed. Duties include use of mea- address: Janet Kathy Kitty of Earle Thomas Pickering, This the 28 day of Septem- suring tapes and equipment to Williams 165 Carpenter Hol- deceased ber 2020 cut and trim a variety of materi- low Robbinsville, NC 28771, (598887) PEGGY GRAY HARDISON als for awnings, signs, curtains, on or before December 27, canvas for porches, boats, Executrix of the Estate of campers and other materials 2020 or this notice will be ERIC THOMAS HARDISON for commercial and residental pleaded in bar of their recov- Deceased. projects. Must be able to oper- ery. (601931) ate an industrial sewing ma- chine, must be punctual, reli- All persons indebted to said able, hard-working, a good co- estate will please make im- worker, good upper body mediate payment. strength and able to work on This the 28th day of Septem- your feet for 8+ hours a day. Experience preferred. Fill out ber 2020 an application at 680 Tallulah Janet Kathy Kitty Williams Road, Robbinsville, NC 28771. Administrator of the Estate of OFFICE CLERK / Charles Williams, BOOKKEEPER Deceased. Copperhill Industries is seek- (601982) ing a full-time office clerk/bookkeeper. 1-2 years of NOTICE TO CREDITORS office experience preferred. HAVING QUALIFIED as Ad- Computer, organizational, and basic accounting skills need- ministrators of the Estate of ed. References will be re- Earle Thomas Pickering, de- quired. Pay based on experi- ceased, late of Graham ence with full benefits. Apply in person at 304 Ocoee St., Copperhill, TN or online at www.copperhilltn.com/jobs TRANSPORTATION & RECREATIONAL

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Wanted to buy US and foreign coins and currency. Top prices paid. I will come to you, call Dan @ 828-421-1616. ccp-590029 PETS & ANIMALS Positions Available: NEW PAY RATES AKC GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPS Champion Bloodline desirable full-time and part-time for day, evening red and black pups. Grandkids CNAs of 3x German world champion. & night shift, $1,000 Sign-on Bonus for full-time. Full genealogy available online. Sire and dam on premises. LPN Floor Nurse position for night shift, full- ready soon, pick now. Very rea- sonable price, need good time and part-time, $1,000 full-time Sign-on Bonus. homes. Blairsville 772 359- 6676 RN Floor position for night shift, full-time and SERVICES part-time, $1,000 full-time Sign-on Bonus.

RN/QI full-time Housekeeper part-time **CONLEY'S TREE CHIPPER SERVICE Experience in Dan- ger Trees, Underbrush, Views, Anyone interested in obtaining their C.N.A license for FREE, assistance is Insured. OVER 35 yrs, 828- available. Please contact the facility at 828-479-8421 for more information. 321-3010/ 828-557-0258. (580533) Contact Lacy Webster, Administrator 828-479-8421 Graham Healthcare & MOUNTAIN HOMES PAINT & STAIN. Get professional work Rehabilitation Center at a fair price. Free estimates. 811 Snowbird Road Insured. WE SHOW UP! Call Robbinsville, NC 28771 Tony Stewart (828) 735-6837. Page 12 • The Graham Star Thursday, October 8, 2020

Page 2 • The Graham Star C ommunity Thursday, October 8, 2020 In Brief The Graham County The Ridges in Hayesville. Beginning a new chapter Free concerts Emergency Food Pantry The format will be two- movie about a book; in my helping Hollywood clien- will be distributing meals man, captain’s choice and The Stecoah Valley RV Local author pens case, I wrote a book about tele, Holland was ready to on the following Wednes- payouts will be awarded Resort and Campground a movie (Nantahala: Land slow down and focused on day’s: Oct. 21, Nov. 4, second solo book (415 Hyde Town Road) to first place in each flight. of the Noonday Sun).” the place that captured his Nov. 18, Dec. 16 and - will be hosting a pair of Prizes will also be award Lance and his wife, Tina, heart in the 1970s. Dec. 30. The pantry will ed for closest to pin and By Kevin Hensley free concerts. have dedicated many years “My wife and I came to be available from 8 a.m. longest drive. [email protected] Friday will bring Bob into serving and studying Fontana Village in 1979 – noon at 3734 Tallulah Entry fee is $120 per and Wendy Trace to the Stecoah – A local resi- the area. He recalls taking and took a summer job. Road. For details, call 479- team. Mulligan’s and red campground, from 6-9 dent has released a contin- “several thousand” people We never left,” Holland 8259. tees can be purchased for p.m. Bryson City-based uation to a book published across Fontana Lake to Stecoah Valley Center $5 each. stated. “My wife finally musician Joe Camuglia 19 years ago. the North Shore area, and retired from Fontana a meal distributions will be For details, call Lucas will then pay a visit from The Nantahala River, A the couple also became few years ago. She ran the each Wednesday at 11 a.m. Ford at 735-2886. 6-8 p.m. Monday. History and Guide is the the historians for Fontana stores for the last 20 years Grace Place, A Commu- Masks and social-dis- latest work from Stecoah Village Resort, helping or so.” Holland now owns nity Table will be serv- tancing are encouraged. resident rebuild the Gunter Cabin and operates Appalachian ing from 5-7 p.m. every You are asked to bring a Fishing Lance Hol- and turn it into a museum. Mercantile, a general pur- Wednesday – and 1-3 p.m. lawn chair. land. The Holland co-authored the pose store at 158 Everett every Saturday – at 300 tournament 224-page Great Smoky Mountains St. in Bryson City. He Five Points Road. The Fontana Village book serves National Park’s go-to enjoys the slow pace that Fruit sale for Fall Classic Bass Fishing as the next guide for outdoor enthusi- comes with “retirement.” Tournament will take place in-depth asts – Hiking Trails of the “After 20 years of band Holiday Saturday-Sunday, Nov. 28- feature on Smokies – and also spent making movies, as some 29. the beauty 20 years of his life work- people say, ‘I enjoyed that The annual Robbinsville Holland Band Boosters Fall Fruit assistance Registration is $150, and history ing as a location agent for all I needed to,’” Holland Sale is underway. The Waynesville Salva- with a $5,000 first-place of western motion pictures, helping joked. “I was not a movie This year, the fundraiser tion Army will be accept- guarantee. Fontana Village North Carolina, following to bring films such asThe buff; I basically did it be- will go toward instru- ing holiday assistance Resort will have a special Fontana, A Pocket History Last of the Mohicans, The cause I was good at it and ments, equipment, litera- applications for Graham rate on lodging for tourna- of Appalachia, a 238-page Fugitive and Nell to the they paid me a lot to do it. ture, repair/maintenance, County residents on ment participants. work released in 2001. area, with the latter two It is extremely hard work; new uniforms and new Monday, Oct. 19, from 10 For details, call 498- “Everybody I know kept being filmed primarily in 12-14 hours and six days a music stands. a.m. – noon at the Graham 2107, or email brandon. saying that I should just Graham County. He also week is normal. For details, contact band County Senior Center (185 jones@fontanavillage. ‘go on upstream,’” Hol- produced and directed “We call Appalachian director Michele Filip at West Fort Hill Road). com. land said with a chuckle. two documentaries; the Mercantile ‘Purveyor of 479-9830. For details, call (828) “The Fontana book has aforementioned Nantahala All Manner of Merchan- 456-7111. Masks and became the history book film, and Hiking on Hazel dise and Entertainment.’ social-distancing will be Library for the area that was af- Creek. That’s what we try to do: Farmer’s required. fected by the construction “I thought I was hired as entertain the people.” appointments of Fontana Lake. a guide for The Last of the The Nantahala River: “But this new book Mohicans; turned out, on A History and Guide, as Market The Nantahala Regional is not about whitewater my paycheck, it said I was well as Fontana: A Pocket Veterans Library system will now The Graham County paddling. It is a book a ‘location scout,’ “ Hol- History of Appalachia, are be open – by appointment Farmer’s Market will be about the Nantahala River. land said. “I didn’t even both available for purchase Parade – at all its locations. open from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Whitewater paddling is know what that was, but on the store’s website, The American Legion Appointments must on the following days: Oct. certainly what has made they were paying really appalachianmercantile.net Posts 532 of Hayesville, be made 30 minutes in 17, Oct. 24, Oct. 31, Nov. the Nantahala River fa- well, so I think I am one.” and at the store itself. For 96 of Murphy and 192 advance. Masks, hand-san- 14 and Dec. 19. mous. Most people make a But after two decades of details, call 828-488-2531. The market will be of Robbinsville will be itizer and a health ques- expanded to include hand- hosting the second annual tionnaire will be required crafted items and indepen- “Welcome Home Tribute upon arrival. Bathrooms This Week in Local History dent sellers, as well as the to Veterans” on Saturday, will remain closed to the produce and other food Oct. 31 at Western Caro- public. 10 years ago jured himself in the woods 6-yard pass play in the first normally available. The lina Regional Airport. The Graham County n Graham County Com- behind his home. Griggs quarter and then with 5:26 location will remain in the The festivities will begin Public Library – which is missioners have approved – who had a two-way radio left in the half, on a 1-yard parking lot adjacent to the with a parade at 9:30 a.m., located at 80 Knight Street plans for a nine-member with him – managed to call plunge by Jason Bate- Graham County Public departing from Andrews – will be offering curbside Economic Development rescuers and direct them to man, to end the half at 14- Library (80 Knight Street, Baptist Church and ending services from 2-5 p.m. on Commission, to lure new him. 0. In the third quarter, the Robbinsville). at the airport, where a chili Mondays; 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. industry to the county and He had tripped on a Wildcats scored 20 points cook-off, military flyovers, on Tuesdays and Thurs- help existing industries. barbed wire fence and in a half-minute span to Veteran Stand-Down days; 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. on County Planner Josh fallen in or near a small put the game out of reach, Meal Services, display planes, Wednesdays and Fridays; Carpenter spearheaded stream and could not get 34-0. vintage cars, motorcycles and 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. on the formation of the new up. distribution and much more will be Saturdays. commission and said his n Robbinsville was 50 years ago available. Those interested can goal is to diversify the unable to hold off the n A Graham Star for this Grace Fellowship Bap- now obtain books, DVDs makeup of the county’s Andrews Wildcats, fall- week could not be located. tist Church (695 Tapoco and audiobooks, plus use business and industry. One ing 34-0 on the road. – Angie Davis and Road) will be distributing R-Club printing, copy and fax of the main incentives Andrews scored first on a Diane West meals at 11:30 a.m. on the services. would be property tax re- following Wednesday’s: tournament For details, call 479- duction for new industries Oct. 14, Nov. 11 and Dec. The third annual R-Club 8796. for six years. Carpenter 9. For details, call 479- Golf Tournament will be -Compiled by said the new board will 8581. held Saturday, Nov. 7, at Kevin Hensley. make recommendations to the county commission for final approval. n The team of Casey Restaurant Scores Whitehead and John Cochran won first place Restaurant scores can be viewed 15). in the Santeetlah Fall Bass anytime under the “Environmental n Papa’s Pizza to Go: 99 (Feb. 17). Classic, sponsored by the Health” tab on health.grahamcounty.org. n Phillips Historic Motel and Cot- Graham County Heritage tages: 93.5 (June 3). Festival Committee and n Appalachian Inn: 100 (May 12). n Pop and Nana’s: 95.5 (Aug. 24). supported by local busi- n Caffe de Olla Grilled: 97 (Aug. 24). n Robbinsville Elementary School nesses. They had a com- n Crown Food Mart: 97 (Feb. 11). Cafeteria: 98 (March 19) bined catch weight of 8.80 n Graham County Senior Center: 97 n Robbinsville Middle and High pounds. The pair also won (Aug. 24). School Cafeteria: 100 (March 19) the biggest fish category n Graham Healthcare and Rehabili- n Sacred Choice Cafe: 99.5 with a 2.60-pound bass. tation Center Kitchen: 100 (May 22). (May 13) n The Hub: 100 (May 18). n Snowbird Mountain Lodge: 98.5 25 years ago n Hunt Brothers Pizza: 98.5 (May (Feb. 21). n Local rescue personnel 27). n Southern Gals: 98.5 (May 4). were called out to assist n Ingles Deli: 97 (Feb. 5). n Stecoah Diner: 100 (Feb. 4). a victim injured in a fall. n Ingles Meat Market: 99 (Feb. 18). n T-Dubb’s: 100 (Feb. 24). Rescuers were called to n Jeb’s Corner Market: 97 (May 27). n Wendy’s: 97.5 (Feb. 24). the Yellow Creek Com- n Kanvwotiyi Kitchen: 100 (May 21). n Willow Tree Catering and Bakery: munity around 8 p.m. to n Lynn’s Place: 97 (Aug. 19). 100 (Feb. 21). assist C. L. Griggs, age n Moonshiners Steakhouse: 98 (May n Wolf Creek Den: 97.5 (Feb. 10). 60, who had fallen and in-

Graham County The Graham Star 6 months ...... $17.99 1 year ...... $26.99 P.O. Box 69, Robbinsville, NC 28771 ■ Phone 828-479-3383 ■ Fax 828-479-1044 2 years ...... $40.99 Email: [email protected] ■ Website: grahamstar.com Other counties Publication No. 225-280 6 months ...... $28.99 1 year ...... $40.99 2 years ...... $66.99 E-edition only ...... $26.99 Military/students ...... $10.99 CNI affiliate newspapers ■ Cherokee Scout 828-837-5122 Publisher/ Office Staff Sales Associate Circulation ■ Clay County Progress 828-389-8431 Editor Manager Photographer Debbie Dills Neal Wachob ■ The News Observer 706-632-2019 Kevin Hensley Diane West Art Miller ■ Times-Courier 706-635-4313 ■ Mountain Press Plant 828-524-2010 More local staff Advertising & news deadlines Columnists: Roger Carlton, Marshall McClung, Submissions may be sent by mail, fax, email Eric Reece, Jeremy Wiggins and Ana Williams. or dropped off at the office. ■ News, Sports Letters to the Editor and Correction policy Calendar items: Noon Monday. We work hard to get it right the first time at theThe Graham Star. If we don’t, ■ Classified and legal advertisements: please let us know. 2 p.m. Monday. If you read something that may require a correction or clarification, which will ■ Obituaries: 5 p.m. Monday. run on this page, call 479-3383 ASAP. ■ Display advertising: 9 a.m. Tuesday. Thursday, October 8, 2020 E ducation The Graham Star • Page 3 County schools tightening down on attendance policy

By Kevin Hensley ent. They can say they’re n In order for a student [email protected] present, but not do their to be counted present for work,” Moody said. “As any given instructional Robbinsville – Citing long as they do their work day, they must complete a lack of participation for each day, they will be their daily assignments – from remote learning only counted present.” online or offline – and/or students, Graham County Moody also pointed be present for real-time, Schools is amending its out that due to the gaps online instruction attendance policy. prior to the amendments, n Students in grades At the board of educa- repeated attendance viola- K-8 must check in with tion meeting Tuesday, tions were not receiving their homeroom instructor, assistant superintendent proper recognition in court while grades 9-12 must Robert Moody outlined the cases. The county has been check in with each course changes, which includes a and will continue to send instructor special section dedicated School Resource Officers The Robbinsville High School Student Council raised and donated $100 toward the solely to students that opt out to check on chronically Food truck out of in-person instruc- absent students, with let- purchase of the food truck for Graham County Schools. From left in the photo is Superintendent Angie Robbinsville Student Council members Lina Pagan, Lindsey Brittain, Student Body tion. ters sent out after three, six Knight pitched the board Moody noted that the and 10 days of successive President Dalson Jordan, Graham County Schools Superintendent Angie Knight, Ally on a $20,000 expense, but Ayers, Ivy Odom, Caylin Lunsford and Keylie Jordan. board shifted to a stricter absences. the money will more than policy at the beginning of “I think that we’ll al- pay off in the long run. However, Knight’s learn for three weeks. “I also think we’re al- the 2019-20 school year, ways have remote (learn- Between private dona- estimate of a truck costing “That decision was not ways going to have remote but the COVID-19 pan- ing), from here on out. It tions, a GoFundMe page roughly $40,000 was all made lightly,” Knight said kids. In the near future and demic proverbially dis- will always be an option,” and a contribution from the board needed to hear, of the change. “We have the not-so-near future, a mantled the effort. Instead, Moody said. “We’ve got the Robbinsville High as the urgency of making students that will go back food truck would be some- systems across North to figure out someway to School Student Council, sure children are receiving into situations that are un- thing feasible to use.” Carolina are noting a cor- have something over their roughly $20,000 has been nutrition far outweighs the safe. We have students that The board unanimously relation between remote- head, to get them to do raised for Graham County price tag. Knight added will go back into situations voted to put another learning students and high their work. This attendance Schools to buy a food that the process is now ex- where there’s food insecu- $20,000 toward the pur- absence rates. policy is the best day to do truck, which would deliver acerbated by the system’s rity. We really struggle to chase, which gives the “We can’t just let them it.” meals throughout the week shift to “Plan C,” in which get food to students that system a chance to begin log in and say they’re pres- The changes include: to students. all students will remote are learning remotely. shopping for a truck. Tri-County Community College honored by agency By David Brown The peer-reviewed on-site visit before the Tipton-Rogers said the in Cherokee, Clay and communities we serve,” Cherokee Scout reaffirmation process SACSCOC board makes excellent review should Graham counties that she said. incorporates the same 87 its final decision,” he said. bode well for local stu- Tri-County Community Tri-County Community It’s official; the regional compliance standards used “The fact is, the com- dents who are considering College will not rest on its College received its initial jewel known as Tri-County to evaluate all colleges and mittee found our college the quality of higher edu- laurels, but will continue SACSCOC status in Janu- Community College is universities in 11 Southern totally compliant not only cation across the region. to be creative and proac- ary 1975. This year, it was no longer hidden in plain states, ranging from Texas in our written policies and “As we move forward, tive in fulfillment of its the only college in North sight. to Virginia. The process procedures but also with we must maintain this mission to engage students Carolina to receive no That’s because the col- includes an extensive our facilities and resourc- high bar of excellence, and in learning, help students recommendations during lege’s president, Dr. Donna off-site document review es, which was confirmed we promise the citizens succeed and enrich the the accreditation process. Tipton-Rogers, announced as well as an additional by their personal interac- to the Tri-County Com- on-site visit of representa- tions with faculty, staff munity College Board of tives from peer institutions and students.” Trustees that on Sept. 3, outside of North Carolina. Wood added another the Southern Association The on-site committee vis- critical component of the of Colleges & Schools ited Tri-County in October reaffirmation process is Commission on Colleges 2019 and left impressed. the requirement for all granted reaccreditation Tipton-Rogers said by colleges and universi- status to the college. earning and maintaining ties to develop a Quality Even better, she added accreditation, the college Enhancement Plan, which that Tri-County earned can award transferable SACSCOC considers “an the best possible outcome, credits, disperse federal integral component of the with the rare honor of re- funds for financial aid and reaffirmation of accredita- ceiving zero recommenda- receive state funding. The tion process.” The plan tions from the accrediting status is absolutely essen- reflects and affirms a com- body. tial for the overall opera- mitment to enhance overall “Our official reaffirma- tion. institutional quality and tion status with no recom- Dr. Steve Wood, the effectiveness by focusing mendations told us what college’s vice president on an issue the institution we already know: Tri- for instruction and insti- considers important to County Community Col- tutional effectiveness, has improving student learning lege is a special institution, been actively involved in outcomes and/or student with wonderful employees the accreditation reaffirma- success. focused on our students tion process since the 1990 “The visiting committee and surrounding communi- review. In his more than considered our QEP ready ties,” Tipton-Rogers said. 30 years at Tri-County, to go,” Wood said. “This “I am immensely proud of Wood said he has seen a meant we had the plan, the our dedicated faculty and remarkable transformation people, the resources and staff, who strove tirelessly and improvement when the assessments all set to to showcase the exemplary comparing the reviews their satisfaction, which is work we do every day.” of 1990, 2000, 2010 and a huge affirmation.” So was the board of 2020. trustees, which quickly “This has never hap- voted to send an official pened in our history,” he letter of congratula- said. “We’ve always had tions and commendation recommendations.” to the faculty and staff in Wood continued about both Peachtree and Rob- the significance of the binsville. 2020 reaffirmation deci- “That’s amazing,” said sion. Larry Kernea, who was “The rarity isn’t just unanimously reappointed no recommendations chairman of the board or follow up; we didn’t at the start of the meet- have anything to clarify ing. “Every person who or answer after the visit- works here deserves to be ing committee left last included in this. Some of October. Normally, there these wins were years in is stuff we, and everyone the making.” else, send in after the Page 4 • The Graham Star OpiniOns Thursday, October 8, 2020 The Graham Star Goin’ against P.O. Box 69, Robbinsville, NC 28771 Three strikes and Phone: 828-479-3383 ■ Fax: 479-1044 Email: [email protected] Publication No. 225-280 the grain Website: grahamstar.com Circulation 2,400 Our mission … are you out? Shout-out to the first presidential debate This past week will go down certainly have an unending list for reinforcing why I hate analyzing, dis- The Graham Star is published with pride for the people of Graham in history as the week of mul- of challenges facing our democ- cussing or even thinking about politics. and adjoining counties by Community Newspapers Inc. of Athens, Ga. We believe that strong newspapers build strong communities. “News- tiple bombshells never seen racy. With less than a month left before the papers get things done!” Our primary goal is to publish distinguished before in Presidential elections. My parents and mentors general election, I realize that as an edi- and profitable community-oriented newspapers. This mission will be We are in uncharted territory, as taught me about decorum and tor, people crave my thoughts on politics. accomplished through the teamwork of professionals dedicated to truth, integrity, loyalty, quality and hard work. We believe that a community we have been for the past few decency. If you want to win a Where do I stand? Who will I endorse? must first know about itself in order to act in its own best interest. years. debate you listen to your op- I answer these questions with another: Chairman: Tom Wood ■ President: Dink NeSmith One major revelation – this ponent and then disassemble How ‘bout those Braves? Regional Publisher: David Brown ■ Publisher/Editor: Kevin Hensley close to the election – could their argument. That is being For the first time since 2001, Atlanta’s swing the results. Three in a defensive. Another way to win baseball franchise won a playoff series. Periodicals postage paid at Robbinsville, N.C. POSTMASTER: Please row has created shock and awe a debate is to be persuasive with Here’s (knock) to (on) hoping (wood) send address changes to The Graham Star, P. O. Box 69, Robbinsville, that the National League Division Series NC 28771-0068. Annual in-county subscription, $26.99; out-of-county, – not just in the conservative fact-based arguments. $40.99; e-edition only, $26.99. In the event of errors in advertisements, world, but in the Despite prepa- does not prove to be the Braves’ downfall. The Graham Star will be responsible only for the space occupied by entire world. R ration by both Again. the actual error, which must be reported within seven days after it is Perhaps lost in the shuffle of all the hul- published. Reprints of staff photos are available for a small fee. The release of C candidates, the President Trump’s event quickly labaloo is the beginning of the 2020-21 Letters to the editor tax returns was MY VieW devolved with North Carolina high school sports season. inevitable, whether interruptions Roughly five weeks from today, volleyball All letters must include the writer’s name, address and phone number, voluntary or by a leak to a and low-blows regarding the and cross-country athletes will finally bring which will only be used for verification. Letters should be no longer than 350 words, guest columns 500 words. The editor reserves the right to major newspaper. His success struggles of family members. another sense of normalcy back to the refuse to print any letter or to edit for brevity, libel and good taste. A as an artful business deal maker There were also more than 125 unusual school year we have been dealt, maximum of one letter per writer will be published each month. has been brought into question. untruths and distortions from K albeit with more His being smart enough to find both candidates. of a bite in the air every loophole and gimmick No one won this debate. In H than what we are to eliminate paying income tax fact, everyone lost this contest. Publisher/ accustomed to over many years may be smart, It was a shameful eye-opener editor when those sports but it is not right. for any thinking person. typically begin To vote or Many of his supporters who There is a saying in baseball (speaking of which, who’s ready for some struggle to put food on the table that is very easy to understand. February football?) – while seeing their paychecks “Three strikes and you are out.” Point blank, the overlap of sports and diminished significantly by tax It remains to be determined if politics cannot be ignored. Until the last deductions – can now wonder this oft-used quote transfers to few years, sports provided an escape from not to vote? the people that get paid the big bucks to be A question was posed to E about supporting a candidate politics. Regardless of political - me, “Does a pastor treat R that lives a lavish lifestyle while leaning, we must all be em a talking head on C-Span, CNN, MSNBC, an election year any dif- paying little or no income taxes. pathetic to the President, his Fox News, etc. Even as a child, I knew my aspirations to grow up and be a broadcaster ferent than another?” stroNG Paying a fair share of taxes does family, members of Congress My first response is no. fAith not make one a “sucker and a and key staffers who have tested would be better enjoyed as recapping a loser.” positive or been hospitalized for game, rather than breaking down a passing On second thought, - I know because of the faith. He meet with them To be fair, his companies pay the COVID-19 virus. No caring comment made by the leader of our coun constant news and adver- weekly for prayer and a lot of state and local taxes – as person wishes this curse to fall try by yelling at three “political experts” tisements my thoughts, fellowship, sharing with do we all. The real question to on our leaders. for 45 minutes. - - the thoughts of church them three simple rules think about is to whom does the We all should have compas To tie all this together, no, this newspa members and the commu- for living based on the President owe – with personal sion for the 210,000 people per will not openly endorse one candidate nity do turn to the coming Beatitudes of Jesus. The guarantees – more than $425 in the Unites States who have nor party over the other. So let that thought election. first was to do no harm, million coming due during his died since this tragedy began to evaporate. - You may know, reli- the second was to do all potential next term and will unfold last March. Yet, it is dif Like millions of Americans, I willingly - gious institutions and the good you can and the that burden impact his decision ficult to erase from our memo suffered through the 90-minute debate. In tax-exempt nonprofits third was to stay in love making? ries the total mismanagement its entirety. Internet memes and major news with God (by worship- Perhaps we can sum this up and disdain for the impacts of outlets alike have already broken down the cannot campaign for or - - oppose a political candi- ping together). Many still by quoting famous author Her the pandemic. The scientists good, the bad and the ugly of what trans man Wouk: “Income taxes are who gave us sound advice were pired, but let this imagery piece together date running for office. To follow these simple rules. - do so would run afoul of On Oct. 6, 1774, he the most imaginative fiction ignored by so many who now where I personally stand (again, not an en the IRS laws and put the wrote in his journal how being written today.” suffer from the disease. dorsement of The Graham Star as a whole, church or organization in he had met with his fel- The problem is that we want Can we – or should we – put so do not even try to play that card): trouble. lowship and encountered truth and not fiction from the that behind us as we start early Go to YouTube. Seriously. Search for My church denomina- many questions from leader of the free world. voting? “1997 NLCS.” those who had votes in The second bombshell was That remains to be seen. In its entirety, the top result will be Game tion believes individuals - and groups have political the coming election. As the slugfest, misnamed “de Roger Carlton is a columnist 5 of the Braves/Marlins series. Even some responsibility. Our Social a pastor and a Christian bate.” This columnist firmly for The Graham Star. He is a 23 years later, you can tie in the first 2020 Principles state: “The brother, he advised them: supports a respectful political council member for the Town of presidential debate with the game. - discussion about issues. We Lake Santeetlah. How, you ask? Well, home-plate umpire strength of a political sys “To vote, without fee or - tem depends upon the full reward, for the person Eric Gregg played the role of Chris Wal and willing participation they judged most worthy. lace, Livan Hernandez appeared as Joe of its citizens. The church To speak no evil of the The longest search, Part 1 Biden and, in a supporting role, the Atlanta should continually exert person they voted against Braves were Donald Trump. What is considered to be the erson had a meeting with Hoot Fifteen strikeouts. That last one was a a strong ethical influence and to take care their - upon the state, support- spirits were not sharpened longest search for a missing per Gibbs, Russ Arthur and myself, complete farce. I was 8, and I am still not ing policies and programs against those that voted son in Graham County to date and search plans were made to over it. deemed to be just and on the other side.” occurred in 1988. attempt to locate his vehicle and Kevin Hensley is the publisher/editor of opposing policies and Emotions can run high That year, Jim Michelic, 25 camp. The Graham Star. He can be reached by programs that are unjust.” during an election year from New Berlin, Wis., came to The next day – Oct. 4 – phone, 479-3383; email, editor@graham- (Social Principles: The causing harm and divi- the Cheoah Ranger Station on myself and Gibbs searched star.com, or on Twitter @KevinHensleyC- Political Community) sions that can take years Sunday, Sept. 25. Strawberry Knob – elevation NI. Michelic spoke with U.S. For- 4,500 feet – and Stratton Bald, Difficulties arise with to heal. How are people - the opinion of what is of faith to act? By voting, est Service employee Dave Gus elevation 5,341 feet. Heavy fog Letters to just or unjust. I heard we have the opportunity tafson of his desire to hike in limited visibility to a few feet. - remote forest areas, to get away I spotted a tent off to the edge someone put it this way to support ideas and is - recently, is it justice or sues we believe in. By not from people. Mi M of Stratton Bald, the Editor just us we want? voting, we leave impor- chelic purchased MC but there was I was taught every citi- tant issues to chance. We maps of the Joyce no one around. bY GoNe Davis has my vote zen had an obligation to all want a better society Kilmer-Slickrock When the tent was - dAYs I don’t typically write letters of support vote because of the many with “ liberty and justice and Citico Wilder checked, a large - for political candidates, but this one time, I who fought and died on for all.” One way to work ness areas and left amount of rainwa am writing to my fellow “Unaffiliated” vot- the battlefield and in the for this goal is to get out for the Walker Inn in Andrews, ter was discovered inside, as the ers, to urge support for Col. Moe Davis as streets to give us freedom. and vote. where he was staying. tent flap had been left open. The our next congressman in NC-11. My understanding is it is But, take heed of the The next day, Michelic left tent did not appear to have been - My reason can be summarized in one our civic duty to vote. For Rev. Wesley’s advice on Andrews for the wilderness ar occupied since it was pitched. word: maturity. me, to not vote is to lose voting and especially eas, leaving behind some items A backpack was tied up in a Like me, he is of a mature age. He has one’s rights and voice. the one to take care not and advising staff at the Inn that nearby tree. It contained trail - seen and experienced a lot of life in his 60- The Rev. John Wes- to sharpened our spirits he would return for them after mix, but only a very small por plus years. ley was a 18th-century against anyone! his trip. tion had been eaten. There were Equally important, he has demonstrated English minister, who was Eric Reece is the faith The following day – Sept. no footprints around the tent or maturity in thought and judgment. Apart approached by a group columnist for The Gra- 27 – he was seen on the Wolf any evidence of recent use. This from his more recent work as a Congres- wanting to meet with him ham Star. He is the pastor Laurel Trail by John Wisham prompted me to tell Gibbs that I sional staffer, law school professor and for the purpose of under- of Robbinsville United and John Brown of Andrews. think we are looking for a body, administrative law judge, he served with standing the Christian Methodist Church. This was to be the last time not a live person. Michelic would be seen alive Meanwhile, Arthur and Rick- distinction as a career JAG officer in the by anyone, and his fate would erson discovered Michelic’s U.S. Air Force. Yet when he was asked remain unknown until Oct. 17. vehicle in the Wolf Laurel Trail- to compromise his principles he chose, Wisham and Brown later ad- head parking lot. At this point, instead, to stand on principle, even at the vised searchers of having seen the adjacent area was searched, expense of the advancement of his military Michelic and stating that he including all of Stratton Bald, career. seemed to be tired and sweaty. Naked Ground, the Hangover, Throughout his campaign he has offered On Saturday, Oct. 1, heavy rains and Wolf Laurel Trail. policy statements relevant to all who live drenched the area, wiping out The N.C. Forest Service did in NC-11, including health care, education, footprints and any other evi- an aerial search with a helicop- jobs and economic development. He has dence Michelic might have ter. I later learned that he had consistently offered a unifying message left. come within 1/10 of a mile or so to all of us, irrespective of petty political The following Monday – Oct. of Michelic on the first day of distinctions. In a time of unprecedented 3 – the U.S. Forest Service was the search, in dense rhododen- national division, I want a representative informed that Michelic is miss- dron and laurel. who will speak to the better angels of our ing. He had not returned to the Part 2 of this column will nature. Walker Inn to pick up items he appear in next week’s edition of By contrast, his opponent – Mr. Caw- had left as planned, and did not The Graham Star. thorn – is both very young and quite inex- arrive in Atlanta to visit friends, Marshall McClung is the perienced. He has completed no schooling, also on his schedule. historical columnist for The District Ranger Steve Rick- Graham Star. Letters to the Editor See page 5 Thursday, October 8, 2020 OpiniOns The Graham Star • Page 5

Continued from page 4 told me he did not interfere people to keep their hands your carelessness. sheet-u-s-asylumprocess/) There are no shortage beyond high school. He in the 2016 election and I to themselves, stop gather- I say this, because some- n I was not aware that of newsworthy stories this has yet to hold a full-time believe him.” ing and sharing germs, and one needs to. We are get- Mr. Trump was donating election season. But I want 40-hour/week job. And his n cover their faces to stop ting calls from neighboring the salary. According to to focus on just one: a par- behavior in the recent past A President should be spreading their germs. counties asking what in the Snopes.com, he is donat- ticular moment from last has demonstrated a pro- held to a higher standard. People are dying … is world is going on. Why ing it to government agen- week’s presidential debate found lack of judgment. He should personify a there something unclear is our positivity rate sky cies and not to charities. that pinged me, because it Let’s send someone to leader that is honest, com- about that? People have rocketing? Someone needs n speaks volumes. Congress whose career re- passionate, sympathetic, died because someone in to call out the fact that we The political party That moment came an flects significant education, strong. He should be able this community passed see a higher rate of infec- system has worked for hour or so into the debate training, relevant work to show empathy towards their COVID infection tion than larger counties this country for more than when Joe Biden mentioned experience – and maturity. others. onto them. They will not across the state. 200 years, with very few his son Beau. The ex- I have no doubt that Mr. We need our children enjoy another day on this It’s not about freedoms breakdowns. It provides change went like this: Cawthorn is a pleasant to be able to look up to a Earth because of the care- or rights. It’s about sci- for discussion and debate “The way you talk about young man. If government President of our country as lessness of someone else. ence, disease and personal and weighing of the dif- the military, the way you is his goal, I recommend a role model. My staff is tired of call- responsibility. fering views that are to be talk about them being he start at the local level. We need a President for ing to check on our posi- Beth Booth expected in such a vast ‘losers’ and ‘suckers,’” For the present, I urge all the people, not just his tive cases, only to be told Director, Graham County country. For our mutual Biden began, referring to voters to put your trust in base. We need a President they died. We are tired, Health Department well-being, the debate an Atlantic piece, which the experience and matu- who values all lives. One y’all. The health depart- must be civil and engaged, exposed details about how rity of Col. Moe Davis. that is not so openly racist. ment has been working with the intention of reach- the sitting president has re- Richard Benson We need a President who 24/7 for more than nine ing compromise, not total ferred to, “My son was in Brevard believes in the deleterious months. Nine months of Thanks for suppression of opposing Iraq. He spent a year there effects of global warming tracking people down, views. ... He got the Bronze Star. and wants to protect future delivering groceries, deliv- responding We need a leader who He got the Conspicuous For the generations. We need a ering bad news, enforcing I appreciate Mr. Odom’s understands and that sets Service Medal. He was not President who cares! quarantine and isolation response (“Christians Un- an example of compassion a loser. He was a patriot people Clinton Wyatt orders, making home vis- der Attack,” Sept. 17). and concern for all of us. and the people left behind This is an open letter to Tuskeegee its, documenting, testing, We Americans must rec- We currently don’t have there were heroes.” everyone. tracing – and countless ognize that we inhabit this such a leader. I pray that “Really?” Trump prod- For the record, I am other obligations, in addi- beautiful country together. we someday will. ded, “Are you talking Republican, but I cannot Only you tion to keeping up with the We must pull ourselves out Katy Lynch about Hunter?” understand how we can other daily programs that of the trenches and talk to Sweetwater “I’m talking about my look up to a president who can prevent run, regardless of COVID. each other if our nation is son, Beau Biden,” Biden cannot be trusted. Who lies Cut us some slack, folks! to survive. clapped back. to the American people. COVID Help us out! It’s not that A few clarifications: Vote for the “I don’t know Beau. hard! I’m not asking you n If you read my letter No, I am not listening to Alright Graham Coun- I know Hunter,” Trump “fake news.” I am listen- for the moon; I’m asking of last month, you can see right choice deflected. tians, this is your friendly, you to simply follow the that I was not attacking Beau Biden – a deco- ing to the words out of the neighborhood health direc- rules. Just follow the rules Republicans (many of Spoiler alert: This letter rated veteran – was diag- President’s mouth. tor. set forward to stop spread- whom I admire and may is about politics. nosed with brain cancer Here are some of the I am writing this be- ing germs. The school kids have voted for) or conser- I left Robbinsville and in 2013 and tragically lies out of the President’s cause I have reached my have done a fantastic job vatives or the Christian Graham County 17 years succumbed to his illness mouth: wits end with what I see of following these rules. faith. I was asking those ago, so it would be reason- two years later. n “I had nothing to do happening in this beautiful Kudos to them and the who follow the teachings able to ask: “Why now?” Do not let cynicism or with Stormy Daniels or county. teachers that remind of Jesus to explain how so With 70 percent of Gra- apathy keep you from Karen McDougal.” I am not sure where the ham County voters going n “I knew nothing about them. The kids have many of them can support casting your vote. This disconnect is with people for Trump in 2016, it feels the $130,000 paid to grandstanded the adults in a man whose word and election is not simply left not understanding science, a big way. actions are so at odds with important to put thoughts Stormy Daniels by Mi- rules and basic respect for vs right, Republican vs And before you get those teachings. to paper around what Democrat. It’s a choice be- chael Cohen.” those around them. fired up mad about school n One does not have to seems right, to me. tween two vastly imperfect n “The Trump tower The science: if you cover I was raised in Rob- meeting with Russians was shutting down, own it. be pro-abortion (and I am men, but with the incum- your nose and mouth, you The reason the school shut not) or a liberal to feel that binsville, attended Graham about adoption.” will not spread your germs bent embodying vulgarity, down is because the adults Trump is unfit to be Presi- County schools, had my - n “It was a perfect far and wide for everyone cruelty, indecency, irrever in the county could not fol- dent. Many honorable and first job in Graham County phone call> I did not hold else to enjoy. Do not sit ence and incompetence, low the rules set forward renowned Republicans are and poured my heart into while the other embodies up funds designated to close to people. Do not to stop spreading the virus. now saying as much. our high school’s basket- decency, compassion, em- Ukraine unless they dug hug people. Do not con- ball team. I was molded up dirt on Joe Biden.” I don’t know how more n The policy of sepa- pathy, competence, calm gregate for parties, church, plainly to say it. If the rating illegal immigrant by Robbinsville, its people and respect. n “The Mueller Investi- family reunions and/or be- adults had done like they children from their parents and the values espoused Right still matters. Vote gation was a hoax.” cause you think gathering there. To my friends and n “I cannot turn over my were asked to do – and was started by the Obama your conscience. sounds like fun, nothing. followed a simple set of administration. The hold- family there, right mat- Robert Wiggins tax returns while they are Do not gather. The closer instructions – the school ing cages were built by tered. Washington, D.C. being audited. No vali- you sit, and the longer you dation that they are still wouldn’t be shutting that administration, as Mr. sit there, the more germs down. It is not the school’s Odom says. The Obama under audit.” you share. Period. fault it shut down; it’s the administration abandoned n “If I hadn’t acted so Wash your hands. Wash citizens’ fault. the program as inhumane. quickly in closing the your hands. Wash your border from China, many If you want the kids to It has been restarted under hands. I do not think I Donald Trump. It is still more would have died could make this any more go back to school, follow the rules. Stop gather- inhumane. The slowdown from the “China virus.” clear. You touch your n The virus is like the ing, wear your mask and in hearing asylum cases friends, then you touch wash your hands … its has been slowed, as well, flu. It will “magically go your face … then you con- away.” real simple folks. Not so that the backlog is over tract COVID. This is basic two years. (For the unbi- n “I have taken two germ science 101. Keep rocket science, just basic science. Love your neigh- ased data, see immigra- weeks of hydroxychloro- your germs to yourself. bor enough not to spread tionforum.org/article/fact- quine.” This has absolutely n “Children are practi- nothing to do with your your germs. Your germs, your responsibility …you cally immune to the virus.” political views. Nothing. n “I am a very stable ge- I personally do not care spread them, that’s on you. Their illness is a result of nius. I go on my hunches how you vote, I just want when making decisions.” n “Mail-in ballots will cause the most fraudulent and rigged election in American history.” n “I did not appoint a postmaster general to sup- press votes in the upcom- ing election.” n “Vladimir Putin has no reason to lie to me. He Page 6 • The Graham Star C ommunity Thursday, October 8, 2020 Obituaries Woman suffers cardiac event Palm Beach State College Home was honored to and began working at a serve the Oswalt family. By Dana Soehn cardiac event at the visitor The cardiac event An online register is dental practice in Florida Great Smoky contact station and book- was the second in Ca- shortly after graduating. available at townson- Mountains National Park store area near Cable Mill. des Cove in four days. During the years she spent smithfuneralhome.com. Bystanders and Park Rang- A 26-year-old Portland, in Florida, in 1977, at the Townsend, Tenn. – ers performed life-saving Tenn. man was pro- age of 26, she became the Great Smoky Mountains measures including CPR nounced dead at Blount youngest president the National Park rangers and use of an automated Memorial Hospital after Florida Dental Hygienist’s responded to a report of a external defibrillator. The experiencing cardiac Association ever had. Two woman in cardiac distress patient remained unrespon- distress on Laurel Creek important pieces of legis- in Cades Cove on Sept. 29 sive and was pronounced Road on Sept. 25. lation was passed during at 2:31 p.m. deceased at 3:00 p.m. Publisher/editor Kevin her tenure. Ima M. King, 82 of No additional details are Hensley also contributed Louise After moving to Rob- Knoxville, experienced a available at this time. to this report. binsville, she continued Williams working as a dental hygienist for Dr. Patrick Graham County Arrest Report Louise Colvin Williams, Kelley. She was also in- 69 of Robbinsville, N.C., strumental in starting the The following is a list of rick Brooms, 64, Rob- phetamine (two counts), went home to be with her Julia Turpin Church Mouse Ministries arrests made and/or filed binsville. Possession with identity theft, possession Julia Wayne Turpin, Lord and Savior Jesus in Robbinsville and wrote by the Graham County intent to manufacture/sell/ with intent to manufacture/ (Judy), passed away Fri - Christ on Tuesday, Sept. cooking articles for Rob- Sheriff’s Office, the deliver schedule II con- sell/deliver methamphet- day, Oct. 2, 2020. 29, 2020. binsville’s local paper, The Tennessee Valley Author- trolled substance, maintain amine. Her parents, Jack and Louise was preceded in Graham Star. ity, the North Carolina place controlled substance. Rosel Ditmore Turpin; death by her parents, Dock She is survived by her Highway Patrol, the N.C. n Oct. 2 – Dillion Jared CAD Report: Week of her sister, June Lambert; and Hattie Worley Colvin; husband, Paul Longbrake; Wildlife Resources Com- Bird, 25, Robbinsville. Sept. 28 – Oct. 4, 2020 and a special red-headed and her infant twin sister, son, Steven Longbrake of mission and the Cherokee Other - free text. n Property-related: 24; nephew, Billy, preceded Elouise. Cape Coral, Fla.; daugh- Indian Police Department. n Oct. 3 – Dalton Var- domestic: 24; medical: 19; her in death. She is survived by her ter, Karen Nicholson of The information was nel Anderson, 32, Rob- traffic: 47; general: 42. loving husband, Pose Lof- - Julia moved to Atlanta obtained from arrest re- binsville. Possess metham- Total: 156. Keller, Texas; grandchil after graduating from ton Williams, of 51 years; dren, Iain Nicholson, cords on file at the Graham - Robbinsville High School her only child, Karen Wil Salvatore Pacilio; and her County Jail and/or Clerk liams Lail and husband, in 1963. She completed of Court’s office. Persons nephew, Jay Prator of Ft. Marsh Business College Chris, of Waynesville, listed below are innocent Myers, Fla. then attended Georgia N.C.; her grandchildren, Arrangements for a until proven guilty: Josh Cable of Robbins- State University while n Sept. 29 – Richard memorial service will be working at Farber Con- ville, N.C., Kristin Luther announced later. Oliver Garland, 35, Rob- Lagniappe Animal Hospital is having their and husband, Tom, of struction Company as the Townson-Smith Funeral binsville. Second-degree Annual October Rabies Clinic by Charlotte, N.C., Chase Home was honored to office manager. She later trespass. became Corporate Secre- APPOINTMENT ONLY for the entire month Burchfield of Waynesville, serve the Longbrake fam- n Sept. 29 – Tyler Blake N.C., and Cerissa Justice tary of REIS, Inc. Klein, 22, Robbinsville. of October. You will need to call ily. - and husband, Keith, of An online register is During the 1996 Olym Probation violation. 479-4849 for an appointment. pics, she worked for Coca- Hendersonville, N.C.; and available at n Oct. 1 – Jeffrey Pat- her great-grandchildren, townson-smithfuneral- Cola in guest services. Julia loved her family Marcus Spears, Madison home.com. Cable, Tanner Cable, Au- with all her heart. She tumn Luther and Daniel came home to her beauti- Luther. ful North Carolina moun- The family received Jeff Oswalt, Sr. tains often, to be with friends and family at their On Wednesday, Sept. family and friends. residence between 1-2 30, 2020, Jeff Oswalt, Sr. She was especially p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, left to his heavenly home proud and felt honored to 2020. to be with his mother, have volunteered almost Graveside services were Louise Oswalt, father, 20 years at Emory St. held at 2 p.m. at the Col- Jim Oswalt and sister, Dia Joseph’s Hospital, where vin Williams Cemetery, Harmon. she was able to help adjacent to their home. At age 62, he was a others; always a smile, Pastors Teddy Silvers and decorated veteran with a friendly greeting and Roy Kilby officiated. numerous deployments. often a big hug. She was In lieu of flowers, please After retiring an enthusiastic participant send donations to: from the Green- in activities at the Benson Old Mother Church ville, Miss. police Center in Sandy Springs, PO Box 215 department, he moved to Ga, where she also volun- Robbinsville, NC 28771 North Carolina, where teered. as requested by the family. he became an officer of Julia is survived by Townson-Smith Funeral Graham County. her brother, Jimmy; her Home was honored to Left behind to cherish sisters, Jean Brooms and serve the Williams family. his memory are his wife Joan Roblee, all of Rob- An online register is Pam Oswalt; two sons, binsville. available at townson- Jeff Oswalt II (wife Jen- Also surviving is her smithfuneralhome.com. nifer) and Jason Oswalt loving companion, James (wife Lesily); a daughter, Cooke of Sandy Springs, Rainey Yake (husband Ga., her devoted caregiver Anne Bek); and eight grandchil- during her extended can- dren, Trey, K.K. LeeLee, cer treatments and illness. Longbrake Wyatt, Scooter, Ceirra, Additionally surviving Anne Prator Longbrake, Caitlyn, Piper; and his two are her nieces and nephew, 73 of the Mountain Creek beloved dogs, Gizmo and Patti Van Horn, Jim Lam- Community of Robbins- LouLou. bert, Teresa Lane, Karen ville, N.C. passed away, Memorial services were Hedrick and Traci Turpin, Wednesday, Sept. 30, held at 1 p.m. Sunday, as well as her great and 2020 at Erlanger Western Oct. 4, 2020 outside at great-great nieces and Carolina Hospital in Mur- Townson-Smith Funeral nephews, and her cousins. phy, N.C. Home. Services were held out- She was a native of Military rites and doors in the field adjacent Florida and the daugh- flag presentation were to Townson-Smith Funeral ter of the late John and conducted by Carringer- Home at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Frances Turner Prator. In Webster VFW Post 8635, Oct. 6, 2020. The Rev. addition to her parents, Eller Rogers American Jack Millsaps officiated. she was preceded in death Legion Post 192, the N.C. Burial followed at Up- by her son Jeffrey Scott National Guard Honor per Yellow Creek Cem- Longbrake; her brother, Guard. Law Enforcement etery. Tommy Prator; and her flag presentation will be Townson-Smith Funeral niece, Paige Prator. conducted by the Tran- Home was honored to Anne was employed sylvania County Honor serve the Turpin family. and practiced as a dental Guard Team and Local An online register is hygienist for 50 years. She Law Enforcement. available at townson- received her degree from Townson-Smith Funeral smithfuneralhome.com. Thursday, October 8, 2020 F aith The Graham Star • Page 7 Page 8 • The Graham Star ElEction 2020 Thursday, October 8, 2020 Contrasting views dominate lieutenant governor debate By Julie Havlak himself as a successful segregate Raleigh’s Enloe Carolina Journal News Service businessman who grew up High School. She argues as the ninth of 10 children that she has the experience Charlotte – “I don’t in a poor family. of the past and the will to consider myself to be a Robinson says he create a better future. black leader. I consider doesn’t believe in systemic That vision of a better myself to be a leader in racism. For him, many future differs dramatically North Carolina, who just problems afflicting from Robinson’s. happens to be black.” black communities result Holley supports stricter That’s how Republican from lawlessness, and gun-control laws, includ- candidate for lieutenant police are part of the solu- ing red-flag laws tagging governor Mark Robin- tion. Defunding the police, people thought to be pos- son introduced himself he said, is “a ridiculous sible threats, higher taxes at a debate hosted by the idea.” on corporations, more N.C. Institute of Political “Systemic racism is not taxpayer subsidies to Leadership and Spectrum the problem,” Robinson Photo courtesy of Spectrum News the poor, and Medicaid News. said. “We have far too Candidates for lieutenant governor — Democratic state Rep. Yvonne Lewis Holley, expansion. She opposes The two candidates many communities that are left, and Republican Mark Robinson, right — debate at the Charlotte Motor Speed- the Opportunity Scholar- running to become North ruled by lawlessness. We way as part of the N.C. Institute of Political Leadership’s Hometown Debate series. At ship Program, though she Carolina’s first African- need to take a good long center is Spectrum News NC moderator Loretta Boniti. praised charter schools as American lieutenant gov- look at that, stop putting an alternative for parents. ernor have dramatically the police under the mi- relations.” Where Holley When identified as a black quips. And she rejects any different views on race, croscope, and start putting decries differences, he leader, he bristled. Fear became cour- voter ID requirements. law enforcement, educa- the criminals under the promotes similarities. “The best thing we can age, the minimum wage “This is our rainy day. tion, economic policy, and microscope.” “Every day, someone do for racial relations in became “maximum talent” This is the time when we the role of government. Holley disagreed. reminds me that I’m this nation is stop call- – always with a heavy need to put our money The election pits Rep. “We need to start pro- black,” Holley said. ing ourselves by different emphasis on progress. behind the people of North Yvonne Lewis Holley, D- tecting people, as opposed “We’ve come a long way. races,” Robinson said. “North Carolinians Carolina and help them Wake – a liberal – against to policing them,” Holley But what is happening “We’re all one race, the aren’t afraid. They’re out,” Holley said. conservative gun-rights said. “We have other ways now is systemic racism human race, and one na- courageous, and they’re Robinson blames activist Robinson. we can do things that are that has kept us from eco- tion, America. We start ready to move on in this Democratic Gov. Roy Both stand to make less restrictive and less nomic development, kept calling ourselves human, state under some real Cooper for the economic history. Both are unapolo- bullying than going in all black and brown people American, and I think progress,” Robinson said. devastation caused by getic about their views. the time with a gun and the from safety on the streets. we’ll see a lot of those is- “They’re ready to get past COVID-19. He thinks Both highlight contrasting only resource is to arrest We’re in fear of our lives sues go away.” these issues, ready to work Democrats have no solu- visions of race in America and physically restrain and from just getting a traffic Robinson flipped the through this [corona]virus, tions for small-business and what it means to be an harm people.” stop.” normal dynamic of these and ready to see violence owners. American. But the two clashed at a But Robinson harks back debates. in the street ended.” “Quite frankly, small If Robinson wins in more fundamental level. to the idea of America as a While conservatives Holley found herself business[es] are suffering November, he will become Holley sees a world melting pot – ditching the often find themselves holding up the burden right now because Gov. the first black Republi- riddled with “rampant” more modern metaphor of defending the past, Rob- of history. She was a child Roy Cooper shut them can elected to any major systemic racism. the American salad bowl, inson stood for the future. of the civil rights era, down and took the control statewide office since Robinson doesn’t. He where distinct cultural and He aggressively reframed one of the first African- out of their hands,” Robin- the 1800s. He describes eschews “so-called race racial identities co-exist. questions into optimistic American students to de- son said. Mangrum, Truitt debate scholarships, schools By Julie Havlak accountability, no transpar- Both candidates support Carolina Journal News Service ency, yet they’re [private higher education spend- schools] taking dollars ing and teacher raises. Charlotte – Re-opening away from our kids.” But Mangrum argued that schools is the top priority Truitt called the descrip- more money is the solution of Catherine Truitt, the tion “disingenuous.” to education’s problems. Republican candidate for “The Opportunity Truitt pointed to more state superintendent. Scholarship program is an local flexibility. Truitt also wants to opportunity for some fami- “We’re at a crossroads defend the Opportunity lies who’re low income in education right now Scholarship program, but to escape from neighbor- that has been accelerated her Democratic opponent hood … schools that have by COVID,” Truitt said. – Jen Mangrum – argues been failing for genera- “COVID has shed light learning must take a back tions,” Truitt said. “I don’t on many things that were seat to teacher safety. Photo courtesy of Spectrum News understand how someone already wrong with our Opportunity Scholar- Candidates for superintendent of public instruction face off at a debate, hosted by can claim that we’re system. … We cannot con- ships provide low-income the N.C. Institute of Political Leadership and Spectrum News. From left are Republi- dismantling public educa- tinue to do the same thing students up to $4,200 per can Catherine Truitt, Spectrum News moderator Loretta Boniti and Democrat Jennifer tion when we’re providing over and over and expect year, to help pay tuition at Mangrum. more funding than ever.” different results.” the private school of their choice. About 12,285 stu- some students behind. But then it became ‘let’s have but the first thing is their dents received the scholar- their reactions couldn’t zero cases.’ The goalpost health and safety and that ship in 2019. have been more different. keeps moving.” of their grandparents. Yes, Mangrum bashes the Truitt says children have Mangrum argues health some have fallen behind. program as a threat to pub- paid the price for Gov. is more important than We’re going to have to ac- lic schools and a parasite Roy Cooper’s shutdowns. learning. She described celerate next year.” on funding. She bashed the governor classrooms as “unsafe,” Mangrum opposes Whoever wins in for worsening inequities saying she’ll follow the the state’s Opportunity November will have the in education and criticized metrics to either reopen or Scholarships as the worst authority to manage the him for imposing a “one- shut schools in the event of voucher program in the state’s $10 billion educa- size-fits-all” statewide a second wave. country. She blamed the tion budget, hundreds of approach. She praised Cooper program and inadequate contracts and oversight of “Absolutely they’re fall- while slamming Mark public school funding for senior staffing decisions. ing behind,” Truitt said of Johnson, the current Re- failing schools. On Sept. 24, Truitt and students. “We are uphold- publican state superinten- “Not only is it the worst Mangrum faced off in a ing one form of safety over dent, for being “MIA.” one,” Mangrum said of debate hosted by the N.C. another when we deny stu- “The state law that Opportunity Scholarships, Institute of Political Lead- dents the ability to return describes a teacher’s job “[but] our students are get- ership and Spectrum News to school. As far as metrics description puts welfare ting curriculum that says NC. go, what I’d say is that ini- as No. 1. Academics are man and dinosaur walked Both candidates agreed tially this all became about No. 4,” Mangrum said. together, that slavery isn’t virtual schooling has left flattening the curve, and “Academics are important, that bad. They have no Thursday, October 8, 2020 ElEction 2020 The Graham Star • Page 9 Differences on reopening exposed in debate By Julie Havlak four terms. said. “It’s not right that Carolina Journal News Service By law, the Department families have to work two of Labor is responsible or three jobs to make ends Charlotte – Reopen- for promoting the “health, meet.” ing the economy during safety, and general well- Dobson was more skep- COVID-19 is a hotly being” of nearly 4.5 tical. As a right-to-work contested issue in the race million North Carolina state, North Carolina has for N.C. Commissioner of workers. the second-lowest union Labor. It’s a large task. The membership in the nation, The two candidates – leader of the department behind only South Caro- Republican state Rep. Josh has wide authority over lina. Dobson, R-McDowell, and employers and employees. The labor department Democratic county com- North Carolina’s cannot raise the minimum missioner Jessica Holmes economy – shuttered wage, but it can set certain – would take drastically by Gov. Roy Cooper in benefits for its own state different approaches to March – has yet to fully employees. that, and labor issues gen- reopen. On Friday, Cooper Photo courtesy of Spectrum News “We need to be very erally. finally moved the state Democrat Jessica Holmes, at left, and Republican Josh Dobson, right, debate in the careful about unilaterally Dobson supports North into a modified version of Hometown Debate series in the race for N.C. Commissioner of Labor. At center is and arbitrarily advocat- Carolina’s right-to-work his Phase 3. While many Spectrum News anchor and moderator Loretta Boniti. ing for a set number for laws, deregulation and businesses – bars, outdoor the minimum wage for economic reopening. entertainment venues and for businesses, he said. He for those workers to have have a lot of unemploy- businesses across North Holmes champions Med- theaters – were allowed supports job protections a face mask, can’t make ment,” Dobson said. “If Carolina,” Dobson said. icaid expansion, a higher to open, Cooper’s restric- for quarantined workers. it optional to have social we’re going to grind this “It sounds good as a po- minimum wage, labor tions on capacity did little But, he argued, farmwork- distancing.” economy to a halt, we litical sound bite, but we unions and stricter guide- to help many business ers cannot remain six feet Holmes said she wants have to take care of those ought to know what the lines for reopening. owners. Some will never apart as they harvest crops to reopen the economy as that are unemployed. … unintended consequences Dobson has served four recover from the financial and load trucks. swiftly as possible while We get calls every week, are first.” terms in the House, where drain. Holmes blasted Dobson emphasizing worker safe- every day from people Dobson praised the Gen- he chaired the Appropria- Holmes repeatedly for a “disdain for regula- ty. She focused on social who can’t get an answer.” eral Assembly’s push for tions Committee. Holmes defended Cooper’s lock- tions, science, and data.” distancing and other pre- Holmes called for mini- regulatory reform. is a Wake County commis- down. But Dobson – who “It is not OK for us to cautions. Dobson stressed mum wage increases, but “For small businesses sioner with a background backed several Repub- decide that CDC guide- the high unemployment said she favors an incre- struggling to make payroll in labor and employment lican-sponsored bills to lines aren’t worthwhile rate and promised to work mental approach. Dobson each month and week, law, and holds a self-pro- reopen businesses earlier or inconvenient,” Holmes with the governor to get cited his work to raise you can’t just pile regula- fessed devotion to “fair- this year – said the shut- said. “If CDC guidelines unemployment benefits to teacher pay and the wages tion on top of regulation,” ness and social justice.” downs went too far. The say workers need to be people who need them. of group home workers. Dobson said. “There’s an The winner will succeed state should focus on six feet apart, they need “For safety precau- “I would absolutely inflection point where that Republican Cherie Berry, “feasible” safety precau- to be six feet apart. … tions, we’ve [ground] this advocate for raising the small business person will who retired after serving tions that are affordable We can’t make it optional economy to a halt. We minimum wage,” Holmes just crumble.” Board’s absentee ballot settlement upheld By Rick Henderson the state. Republicans say would count if received Carolina Journal News Service the litigation is intended as late as nine days after to undermine the integrity the election, rather than Raleigh – Superior of the election, in which the three day limit in H.B. Court Judge Bryan Collins more than 300,000 absen- 1169; and ballots lacking a signed off on a deal letting tee ballots already have witness signature could be the State Board of Elec- been cast. The Alliance is “cured” or counted if the tions rewrite several parts a group affiliated with the voter simply informs elec- of a state election law, AFL-CIO labor union. tion officials that he cast a dealing with absentee bal- In the settlement, the ballot. lots in the current election board of elections agreed State lawmakers called cycle. to revise several parts of the deal a “collusive settle- Collins ruled from the House Bill 1169, a bill ment” and said it under- bench on Friday. He’s meant to make voting eas- mined the legislature’s expected to issue a written ier during the COVID-19 authority under the U.S. order soon. Leaders of the pandemic without compro- Constitution to set election General Assembly, who mising election security. It law and regulations. are defendant-intervenors passed by supermajorities House Speaker Tim Crossword in the case, plan an imme- in both the state House and Moore, R-Cleveland, said, diate appeal. Senate and was signed by “We strongly disagree rockers The settlement agree- Gov. Roy Cooper. with this decision and 6. Italian province ment in N.C. Alliance of Three big changes: will continue to use every 8. Mischievous child Retired Americans vs. Absentee ballots could be legal avenue available to 9. Popular street name NCSBE is one of a raft deposited in unmanned ensure voter confidence in 11. Boxing promoter of lawsuits brought by drop boxes and wouldn’t this election by defending Bob Democratic legal heavy- have to be recorded at lo- North Carolina law against 14. Snakelike fish weight Marc Elias against cal elections boards; they this collusive settlement.” 15. Break into pieces 18. The Bay State 19. Time zone State reminds voters to 20. Port city in Yemen 22. In name only 23. 007’s creator 24. No (Scottish) not photograph ballots 27. Baseball’s Gordon and rock’s Snider are By Patrick Gannon voters may have phones while voting is prohibited, two N.C. State Board of Elections or electronic devices with because of limits on voter 28. Pie _ __ mode them, as long as those assistance and to prevent CLUES ACROSS union 29. Don’t know when Raleigh – The State devices are not used to disruptions in the voting 1. They look out for 32. Carroll O’Connor’s yet Board of Elections is re- photograph or videotape enclosure. kids screen partner 31. Supervises minding voters that North a ballot or communicate Voters may bring voting 4. Play 39. Popular show interstate commerce Carolina law prohibits with anyone via voice, guides, notes and other 7. Water (French) taking photographs of or text, email or any other materials into the voting honoring musicians 32. Make a ringing videotaping voted ballots, method. booth. They also may use 8. Prayer leader 41. Basics metallic sound citing N.C. General Statute Photographing a marked electronic devices to ac- 10. Small constellation 42. Honk 33. Helps little firms 163-166.3. ballot is illegal, in part cess a slate card or candi- 12. __ Carta: influential 43. Trent Reznor’s band 34. Pound “Voters should not take a because such photographs date information, provided royal charter 44. Patti Hearst’s 35. Lilly and Manning picture of their completed could be used as proof of they don’t use the devices 13. Pressure unit captors are two ballot, whether they vote a vote for a candidate in to communicate with any- 14. Extrasensory 45. Long-legged 36. Put on the back in person or by mail,” a vote-buying scheme. one. perception wading bird burner said Karen Brinson Bell, Electronic communication 16. A symbol of “Aloha” 46. Specialized 37. Baltimore ballplayer executive director of the 17. Portion of the small biological grouping 38. Cuddle State Board of Elections. intestine 48. A coin goes in it 39. Poker stake “We respect voters show- 19. Psychedelic 49. Of the wind 40. Drinks to celebrate ing their pride in casting a amphetamine ballot, but ask that they do 50. One-time measure a birth (Spanish) so in another manner.” 20. Very long period of of length 44. Pouch The State Board has time 51. A very large body of 47. Not around 21. British overseas water received multiple com- Last week’s answers. plaints of photographed territory 52. River in NE absentee ballots and has 25. Cereal grain Scotland been alerted to additional 26. Car mechanics violations on social media group CLUES DOWN in recent weeks. 27. Wish harm upon 1. Boston hoopster If a voter has taken a 29. At a specific prior 2. A type of bribe picture of their ballot and time 3. SE England county shared the photo online, 30. Peyton’s younger 4. Returned material the voter should delete the brother photograph. authorization (abbr.) When voting in person, 31. UK firefighters’ 5. “Hotel California”