In this week’s archives of the Cherokee Scout and Andrews Journal:
10 years ago – Sept. 23, 2015, Scout: After two years and $110 million, Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel was ready to open in Murphy. The regional impact of construction costs alone totaled $26 million.
- The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners passed its long-awaited adult bookstore ordinance, with protections in place for one such business outside Murphy. New rules included setback requirements of such businesses near churches, schools or any places frequented by children.
- A total of 16 people were arrested on federal drug charges in an alleged conspiracy operating in Cherokee, Swain and surrounding counties. The joint federal, state and local investigation targeted the distribution of methamphetamines.
Sept. 24, 2015, Journal: The fifth annual Senior Fish Fry was held at the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office’s Training Center in Marble. The free event was sponsored by Cherokee County Senior Services, with students from Andrews High School volunteering to help feed their elders.
- The twice-annual Andrews Cruise Night was looking to be even bigger this year, with 200 vehicles on display. Money raised at the event went to Police Pals, which bought Christmas gifts for local children in need. Update: Police Pals has since retired.
25 years ago – Sept. 27, 2000, Scout: Cherokee County Schools received a C+ grade by the nonprofit N.C. Alliance for Smart Schools. Local students graded out at a B- on the ABC test, C+ on average ABC scores, C on graduation rate and C+ on SAT scores.
- The 2000 Murphy High School homecoming queen was senior Michele Allen. She was escorted at the Bulldogs’ football game by senior Alex Pellom.
- Dr. William Gossett, 77, who served the area for more than half a century, passed away at his home in Murphy after a long illness. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II before moving to Cherokee County.
Sept. 28, 2000, Journal: The annual Old Country Fair was held at the Hillbilly Mall in Andrews. Austin Bevins, 6, won a medal during the mutton bustin’ event. Update: The Hillbilly Mall was located just off U.S. 19/74 on the north side of the four-lane.
- During National Employ the Older Worker Week, Arthur James, Corena West, Virginia Cox and Julia Gibson of the Valley were recognized for their longtime contributions to local businesses and agencies.
50 years ago – Sept. 25, 1975, Scout: Bellview placed third across western North Carolina in awards for community beautification. Dan Hughes and Clyde McNabb represented Bellview in Asheville.
- About 20 people had signed up for the new National Guard unit being formed in Murphy. Full strength was considered to be 55 people, so there was still a ways to go.
Sept. 24, 1975, Journal: Dean’s Place, a small discount store in Marble, was broken into and $200 worth of items stolen. Two teenagers – one from Andrews, one from Tomotla – faced felony breaking and entering charges.
– Publisher David Brown