March 21, 2002
* Robbinsville resident Paul Hall was arrested and charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor and indecent liberties with a child. Deputies recovered over 60 pills in Hall’s residence, used to incapacitate two girls. Hall was released on a $47,000 bond. According to sheriff Steve Odom, other charges may be filed, pending test results.
* The Robbinsville High School Baseball Black Knights took to the diamond against Swain County, in the Smoky Mountain Conference opener. Despite Rance Shuler’s home run and three RBIs, and Drew Ford going 1-for-2, the Maroon Devils prevailed 15-3.
March 21, 1991
* Filmmakers completed an aerial view of Graham County, searching for a suitable location for production of “The Last of the Mohicans.” Lance Holland, projects director with Peppertree Fontana Village, acted as the group’s guide and remained hopeful that agreements were reached between 20th Century Fox and the U.S. Forest Service, as the filming could begin early in June. Update: Holland continued this role until 2008 and now runs Appalachian Mercantile in neighboring Bryson City.
* After traveling to Asheville to participate in the Western District Concert band festival, Robbinsville High School was recognized as the first to make a superior rating. Comments of the judges included, “beautiful job throughout, great characteristics in sound and techniques and super attention in all detail.”
March 21, 1985
* Local resident Norma Jean Bailey was found guilty of assault with a deadly weapon, inflicting serious injury on her ex-husband Jack Carr. Both pled self-defense. Evidence showed bruises on Bailey’s face and arms. Carr underwent a five-hour operation to repair bullet wounds. Bailey was restricted from possessing a firearm.
* The U.S. Forest Service provided jobs for seniors 55 years and older. In Graham County, 43 employees worked in the program known as the “Senior Community Service Program.” Jobs included: office clean-up (Mildred Anderson), tool sharpening (Sam Adams), and sign maintenance (Burl Cearley).
-Compiled by Diane West