Latest news with #Cherokee
Associated Press
08-07-2025
- Politics
- Associated Press
North Carolina sheriff steps down after sexual misconduct charges
BRYSON CITY, N.C. (AP) — The longtime sheriff of a western North Carolina county whom some women accused of sexual misconduct has quit before he could be permanently removed. Curtis Cochran, who was first elected Swain County sheriff in 2006, retired from the post effective July 1, according to a statement from the county Board of Commissioners. The chief deputy is performing the sheriff's duties while the commissioners decide who will serve out the remainder of Cochran's four-year term through late 2026, the statement said. Cochran, 72, was charged in state courts with felonious restraint and misdemeanor sexual battery, soliciting prostitution and assault on a female, according to June 27 arrest warrants. The same day, Ashley Hornsby Welch, the district attorney for Swain and six other far western counties, filed a petition seeking to remove Cochran from office for 'willful misconduct and maladministration in office.' A Superior Court judge immediately suspended Cochran from office pending a final court ruling. But the removal petition becomes moot with Cochran's retirement. A petition-related hearing set for Monday in adjoining Graham County was canceled, online court data said. Welch's removal petition included signed affidavits by two women who allege Cochran made separate unwanted sexual advances on them while he drove on land held by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. The Eastern Band's reservation, known as Qualla Boundary, is in portions of Swain County. The county of 14,000 people is about 300 miles (483 kilometers) west of Raleigh and includes much of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that straddles the Tennessee border. Cochran was released on bond on the state criminal charges and faces an Aug. 5 court hearing. He is also charged under Eastern Band tribal law with two counts of oppression in office and one count of abusive sexual contact, Cherokee Indian Police Department Chief Carla Neadeau said in a news release. Cochran's attorney didn't respond Monday or Tuesday to a phone message and emails seeking comment and additional details. The Associated Press generally does not name people who say they have been sexually assaulted. The petition alleges that on June 22 one woman — an Eastern Band member — flagged down what she believed to be a law enforcement vehicle. She was upset and crying because she and her boyfriend had been fighting verbally, and she accepted an invitation into the SUV from the driver — whom authorities identified as Cochran — because she believed it would diffuse the situation, the petition says. The petition alleges that when Cochran started driving he began touching the woman despite her objections and asked her to perform a sexual act, but she refused. He later pulled the SUV off the road, got out and positioned himself so the woman couldn't get out of vehicle and asked again, according to the petition. Cochran told the woman if 'there was a time that I got in trouble, all I would have to do is say his name and he would help me,' the woman's affidavit read. She again declined, ultimately was dropped off at her house and contacted tribal police. The affidavit signed by the other woman said that on June 23 — soon after being released from the tribal jail — she accepted a ride from what looked like a government vehicle that she said turned out to be driven by Cochran. She said Cochran starting touching her — doing so even as she pulled away — and she ultimately got out of the vehicle. The FBI and State Bureau of Investigation also participated in the criminal investigation, which included video footage, according to the petition. Cochran, a Republican, had no law enforcement experience before his first sheriff's election victory, having previously been Swain County's maintenance director.
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Kawonu Golf Club Breaks Ground on Greenville's First New Private Course in Three Decades
Kawonu Golf Club Breaks Ground on Greenville's First New Private Course in Three Decades originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Earlier this year, on April 14th, ceremonial shovels hit South Carolina soil with the weight of three decades of anticipation behind them. On a perfect spring afternoon at 3801 Fork Shoals Road, just outside Simpsonville, more than 150 founding members of Kawonu Golf Club gathered to witness something increasingly rare in modern golf: the groundbreaking of a new private club. Advertisement The 290-acre property along the Reedy River represents Greenville's first new private golf establishment since the early 1990s, a milestone that founding partners Scott Ferrell and Barton Tuck didn't take lightly as they outlined their vision for a club dedicated purely to the game of golf. "We're building something that honors the traditions of the game," Ferrell said. The hardwood forests and rolling land that will soon frame 18 championship holes also honor the Cherokee. The groundbreaking of Kawonu Golf Club near Greenville, South Carolina. Pictured Left to Right: Scott Ferrell, Andrew Green, Noel Tuck, Barton Tuck. April 12, 2025Credit: Kawonu Golf Club The name Kawonu, derived from the Cherokee word for duck, pays homage to the property's history as a hunting preserve. But the site's rolling terrain, mature trees, and stunning river vistas suggest it was always destined for golf. Advertisement What makes Kawonu particularly compelling is its deliberate philosophy. While country clubs across the Southeast race to add amenities — from water parks to pickleball courts — Kawonu is moving in the opposite direction, focusing exclusively on delivering an exceptional golf experience with little other frills. Andrew Green, whose star has risen dramatically in the golf architecture world over the past decade, will oversee this project. Green spent 14 years with McDonald and Sons as a senior designer, learning his craft on renovations at legendary venues like Merion, Shinnecock Hills, and Pine Valley. Now working on his own, he's become one of the most in-demand architects in the business. "This property offers something truly special — a natural canvas with character, movement, and soul," Green said during the ceremony. "We're creating something timeless here. A course that's at once familiar yet entirely new." Green's portfolio reads like a greatest hits collection of American golf. His restoration of Toledo's Inverness Club earned Golfweek's Restoration of the Year honors in 2018. His makeover of Congressional Country Club's Blue Course earned Golf Digest's Best Transformation award in 2021. Advertisement Then came Oak Hill's East Course, which Green restored just in time for the 2023 PGA Championship. Players and commentators couldn't stop talking about how good the course looked and played during that major championship week. Justin Rose on the 15th green during the PGA Championship at Oak Hill Country Club; May 21, 2023; Rochester, New YorkCredit: Adam Cairns-Imagn Images The Kawonu project represents something different for Green — one of his first designs built from scratch rather than a restoration or renovation. With his impressive track record in renovating historic venues, golf design enthusiasts will be watching closely to see how his original vision translates on this fresh property. The timing couldn't be better for the Upstate region, which has quietly developed into a hotbed of professional golf talent. The area has produced an impressive roster of PGA Tour players, many of whom have expressed enthusiasm about Kawonu's development. Advertisement "We've got a good golf town and good golf courses, not to mention the climate's obviously a big factor," said Charles Warren, a three-time winner on the Korn Ferry Tour who was inducted into the South Carolina Golf Hall of Fame in 2018. Ben Martin, the Clemson graduate and PGA Tour winner who grew up in nearby Greenwood, echoed that sentiment. "Maybe we don't have the concentration of pros like Jupiter, Florida, or Sea Island in Georgia," Martin said. "But typically, guys out on the tour all know and love Greenville from coming here." That connection to professional golf runs deep at Kawonu. Current and former Tour players reportedly joining the club include Martin, Warren, Bill Haas, Kyle Thompson, Carson Young, Jacob Bridgeman, and Mark Wilson. Their involvement speaks to both the region's golf pedigree and the project's credibility within professional circles. The course itself will anchor a thoughtfully planned facility that extends Green's design philosophy beyond the fairways. Architect Joel Newman of Thomas and Denzinger has been commissioned to design the clubhouse, lodging facilities, training center, and on-course comfort stations. Advertisement Newman's portfolio includes celebrated projects like Spring Island, Ohoopee Match Club, and Chechessee Creek — all renowned for their understated elegance and harmony with natural surroundings. His approach aligns perfectly with Kawonu's vision of creating something that feels both sophisticated and authentic. Ferrell brings considerable expertise to that vision. His career includes leadership positions with the Gary Player Group and various PGA Tour properties, giving him deep insight into what separates exceptional golf experiences from merely good ones. The Cherokee name "Kawonu," as mentioned previously, carries additional significance beyond its historical connection to the land. In Cherokee culture, the duck symbolizes emotional comfort and protection—qualities the founders hope will define the member experience at Kawonu. The development timeline reflects a commitment to getting details right rather than rushing to market. With construction now underway, Kawonu is targeting a Spring 2027 opening — allowing proper time for the course to mature and for every element to be refined. Advertisement The location itself offers strategic advantages. Situated less than 25 minutes from downtown Greenville, Kawonu provides easy access while maintaining the sense of escape that defines great golf destinations. The Upstate's continued growth has brought increased attention to the region's recreational amenities, positioning Kawonu to attract members from throughout the Southeast and beyond. The Cherokee understood this land's special qualities centuries ago. The hunters who followed recognized its abundance. Now, a new generation of stewards is preparing to write the next chapter in its story. In today's world increasingly dominated by digital distractions and artificial experiences, Kawonu Golf Club represents a bet on something more fundamental — the enduring appeal of a game played across beautiful land, among good company, with respect for tradition and an eye toward the future. If the enthusiasm of its founding members and the caliber of talent involved in its creation are any indication, that bet seems destined to pay dividends for decades to come. The shovels have been put away, but the real work is just beginning. Advertisement Related: LPGA Tour Enters Pivotal Three-Week European Stretch Related: A Name You Should Know: Kevin Roy's Feel-Good Rise From Medical Sales to PGA Tour Contention Related: Gary Player Reflects on Royal Portrush's Return to The Open Championship This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 7, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
30-06-2025
- Yahoo
Cherokee County grieves passing of retired sheriff
CHEROKEE COUNTY, Texas (KETK) – The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office announced on Tuesday the death of their former longtime sheriff, James Campbell, who served the county for 26 years. AFFIDAVIT: Winnsboro ISD coach arrested after attempting to hide sexual relationship between another coach, student Campbell began his tenure as sheriff of Cherokee County in 1994 and served in that position until his retirement in 2020. Before his time in Cherokee County, Campbell served as a highway police officer for the Texas Department of Public Safety. 'We thank Sheriff Campbell for his dedicated 54 years of service to this state and the citizens of Cherokee County. Sheriff Campbell was a true public servant and devoted his life to his community and family,' the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office said. 'Though he is no longer with us, Sheriff Campbell has left a permanent mark on both civilians and law enforcement officers that will continue to guide and inspire us.' The sheriff's office offers its thoughts and prayers to his family during this difficult time Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Scottish Sun
26-06-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Major car brand reveals return of iconic model discontinued 2 years ago and says ‘it'll deliver more than ever before'
A classic off-roader is making a comeback after a two year hiatus CAR COMEBACK Major car brand reveals return of iconic model discontinued 2 years ago and says 'it'll deliver more than ever before' Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A POPULAR car brand has announced the relaunch of one of their classic off-roaders, that is set to make its comeback in 2026. The American manufacturer is bringing the Cherokee out of retirement, with an all new model of the beloved motor. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Jeep is set to relaunch the iconic Cherokee in 2026 Credit: Alamy 3 Jeep has released early images of the new mid-size off-roader Credit: Alamy 3 The Jeep Cherokee was discontinued in 2023 Credit: Alamy Jeep discontinued the car in February 2023 after a solid 10 year production run in the US. However, the reimagined model will officially debut later this year, before going on sale in 2026. Jeep has already released early images to give buyers an idea of what to expect from the brand's next mid-size off-roader. Jeep CEO, Bob Broderdorf, said: 'The all-new Jeep Cherokee headlines our efforts to deliver more product, innovation, choice, and standard content to customers than ever before.' According to Motor1, the 2026 Cherokee adopts Jeep's latest design language, first seen on the Wagoneer S, and then on the new Compass that debuted in May. The motor pays homage to the brand's classic look, with a seven-slot grille and a body with the familiar, rugged shape. Also, the new model will use Stellantis's STLA Large Transverse architecture, which Motor1 believe could mean it will have a variety of power train options. Popular dealership that sells Dodge and Jeep models abruptly closes for good as owner mourns 'difficult decision' Jeep has already confirmed a hybrid, but pure gas and fully electric power trains seem likely as well. An electric Cherokee would likely have a similar setup to the Wagoneer S, which uses a 100.0Kilowatt-hour battery pack and two electric motors to produce 600 hp and 617 pound-feet of torque. Mr Broderdorf added: 'Jeep Cherokee will boast competitive pricing that strikes at the core of the largest vehicle segment and sits perfectly between Jeep Compass and Jeep Grand Cherokee to bolster our winning mainstream lineup.'
The Irish Sun
26-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Major car brand reveals return of iconic model discontinued 2 years ago and says ‘it'll deliver more than ever before'
A POPULAR car brand has announced the relaunch of one of their classic off-roaders, that is set to make its comeback in 2026. The American manufacturer is bringing the Cherokee out of retirement, with an all new model of the beloved Advertisement 3 Jeep is set to relaunch the iconic Cherokee in 2026 Credit: Alamy 3 Jeep has released early images of the new mid-size off-roader Credit: Alamy 3 The Jeep Cherokee was discontinued in 2023 Credit: Alamy Jeep discontinued the car in February 2023 after a solid 10 year production run in the US. However, the reimagined model will officially debut later this year, before going on sale in 2026. Jeep has already released early images to give Jeep CEO, Bob Broderdorf, said: 'The all-new Jeep Cherokee headlines our efforts to deliver more product, innovation, choice, and standard content to customers than ever before.' Advertisement Motors news According to The motor pays homage to the brand's classic look, with a seven-slot grille and a body with the familiar, rugged shape. Also, the new model will use Stellantis's STLA Large Transverse architecture, which Motor1 believe could mean it will have a variety of power train options. Popular dealership that sells Dodge and Jeep models abruptly closes for good as owner mourns 'difficult decision' Jeep has already confirmed a Advertisement Most read in Motors Warning An electric Cherokee would likely have a similar setup to the Wagoneer S, which uses a 100.0Kilowatt-hour battery pack and two electric motors to produce 600 hp and 617 pound-feet of torque. Mr Broderdorf added: 'Jeep Cherokee will boast competitive pricing that strikes at the core of the largest vehicle segment and sits perfectly between Jeep Compass and Jeep Grand Cherokee to bolster our winning mainstream lineup.'
