In this week’s archives of the Cherokee Scout and Andrews Journal:
10 years ago – Oct. 28, 2015, Scout: Four people from Alabama were arrested and charged with stealing the life savings of an elderly Ranger woman. While one person led the woman away from her home, the others were accused of robbing it of cash, a handgun and important papers.
- The Cherokee County Fair returned to the fairgrounds in Ranger after an absence of several years, with country musician Phil Vassar the headline performer. While there weren’t any rides, local students enjoyed the petting zoo, displays and more. Vassar’s $30,000 fee grabbed some attention afterward since the fair brought in less than $17,000 in revenue.
- Senior Madison Ledford was crowned the 2015 homecoming queen at Murphy High School. Update: After working with the Cherokee Scout for the last few years as a graphic artist, Ledford now works as a teacher with Cherokee County Schools.
Oct. 29, 2015, Journal: A 26-year-old Andrews man was arrested on a charge of contributing to the delinquency of a minor after a loud party was held at his home. Three juveniles were also charged or cited.
- The Andrews Board of Aldermen was looking to obtain a loan of up to $1.1 million – as well as a grant for $300,000 – to improve the town’s wastewater treatment plant and infrastructure after suffering sewage problems.
25 years ago – Nov. 1, 2000, Scout: Andrews Mayor Jim Dailey was fired from his duties as town administrator and finance officer, while Bill Stiles was relieved of his temporary duties as maintenance supervisor. Alderman John Payne said, “Evidence has been brought to the board of misappropriation of funds by town officials.”
- The oldest citizen of Texana – “Aunt Ruby” Blount – shared her story of growing up in the predominately black community north of Murphy. She lived in a log cabin that was the oldest home in the area.
- For the seventh time in 10 years, the Murphy Lady Bulldogs brought home a state girls cross-country championship. Lacey Strawn ran one of the best races of her career to become a three-time champ.
Nov. 2, 2000, Journal: The District Attorney’s Office called for an investigation into the actions that led to the firings of Andrews Mayor Jim Dailey, who was appointed in 1994, and temporary maintenance supervisor Bill Stiles. Andrews auditor Pam Ennis found the discrepancies during the town’s annual audit.
- The Andrews Chamber of Commerce and local merchants got together to discuss rebuilding downtown, which was declining as stores were closing or leaving.
50 years ago – Oct. 30, 1975, Scout: Business, civic and political leaders across Cherokee County gathered with enthusiasm to listen to a proposal for “The Great North Carolina Bicycle Race,” which would go from Murphy to Manteo.
- Murphy Police Chief Pete Stalcup warned holiday pranksters that Halloween was for children. “But teenagers and adults who get in Halloween tricks can expect to go to jail,” he said.
Oct. 29, 1975, Journal: A truckload of 37 Brownies from Andrews Troop 283 went “gleaning” at Sam Ward’s farm. The gleaned corn, which was picked by hand, were to be sold at Andrews Elementary School’s Harvest Sale.
– Publisher David Brown