Local

Kevin Hensley/editor@grahamstar.com EcoKing Solution Chair Ping Zhang speaks during a July 22 press conference at the Graham County Community Building, when the China-based manufacturer announced it will create at least 300 new jobs just to start in the region during its first phase of operations in Robbinsville. At Zhang’s left is vice president John Lin.

Kevin Hensley/editor@grahamstar.com EcoKing Solution Chair Ping Zhang speaks during a July 22 press conference at the Graham County Community Building, when the China-based manufacturer announced it will create at least 300 new jobs just to start in the region during its first phase of operations in Robbinsville. At Zhang’s left is vice president John Lin.

Graham County plant bringing 300 new jobs

Kevin Hensley
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
Body Manufacturer EcoKing to revive old Stanley plant in U.S. debut
Randy Foster/editor@cherokeescout.com With new owners, West End Plaza in Andrews is expected to receive a makeover and renovations while retaining its 12 tenants, according to Allison Ralph of Old Town Brokers and new owners Morgan Ellis and Tony Kelly. Work is expected to continue through the end of the year while attracting new businesses.

Randy Foster/editor@cherokeescout.com With new owners, West End Plaza in Andrews is expected to receive a makeover and renovations while retaining its 12 tenants, according to Allison Ralph of Old Town Brokers and new owners Morgan Ellis and Tony Kelly. Work is expected to continue through the end of the year while attracting new businesses.

West End Plaza sold, upgrades begin in Andrews

News Staff
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
Body The purchase, completed on May 29 and brokered by Allison Ralph of Old Town Brokers, is a boon for the plaza, which was originally built in 1976. New owners Morgan Ellis and Tony Kelly knew the property was in need of a serious upgrade and curb appeal when they visited downtown.
Photos by Michelle Bradbeer/Staff Correspondent Andrew Collinson and Cherokee County sheriff’s Capt. David Williams embrace during an event Saturday morning to honor fallen Detention Transportation Officer Francisco Flattes.

Photos by Michelle Bradbeer/Staff Correspondent Andrew Collinson and Cherokee County sheriff’s Capt. David Williams embrace during an event Saturday morning to honor fallen Detention Transportation Officer Francisco Flattes.

Run honors fallen law enforcement officer

News Staff
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
Body Murphy – Andrew Collinson, a freshman at Gainesville (Ga.) High School and volunteer for Running 4 Heroes, a nonprofit organization that honors fallen first responders, ran from th
Aiden McCoy Williams/Staff Correspondent Three teachers – Debbie Ledford (left), Janet Drew and Tina Hayes (right) – were given free baskets of supplies for their classrooms to help start off the school year right by the Grape Creek ECA Homemaker’s Club.

Aiden McCoy Williams/Staff Correspondent Three teachers – Debbie Ledford (left), Janet Drew and Tina Hayes (right) – were given free baskets of supplies for their classrooms to help start off the school year right by the Grape Creek ECA Homemaker’s Club.

Grape Creek homemakers help 3 school teachers

News Staff
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
Body Grape Creek – The Grape Creek ECA Homemaker’s Club held its annual Teacher Appreciation Picnic under the pavilion near the Rock Gym in Murphy with an impressive turnout on Jul
Randy Curtis with his 3-year-old granddaughter, Caroline. The two were involved in a fall that ended up with Randy in the hospital for several days. Thankfully, Caroline only suffered minor injuries. 

Randy Curtis with his 3-year-old granddaughter, Caroline. The two were involved in a fall that ended up with Randy in the hospital for several days. Thankfully, Caroline only suffered minor injuries. 

Fireside Chat: Retired power lineman a lifesaver

Anngee Quinones-Belian
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
Body Hanging Dog Meet Randy Curtis, a man who has put his life in danger to help others many times.