“While this was an employee of the Macon County Sheriff ’s Office in good standings at the time the alleged crime was committed, he was not on duty,” Holland said. “We recognize that we cannot control what our employees do when they are not working but anytime an allegation is made against one of our employees, we take it serious and will investigate any and all allegations. Wherever the facts lead us we will do the right thing in the end, even if it means arresting one of our own.” Holland added that investigators are aware of comments being made on social media pertaining to this case but as of this moment had not been contacted by any witnesses or any other potential victims as speculated on social media. “As with any case we would encourage anyone with information to contact us and we would follow up with that information. Mr. Sanchez is now a former employee and unfortunately there are laws that prohibit me from sharing any information we might have related to any complaints about him while employed,” Holland said. “However, in fairness to him and the staff at the MCSO as well as our citizens, I will say I have not had any complaints made against Mr. Sanchez that accuses him of any illegal behavior or it would have been addressed.” The investigations will remain ongoing and no further information will be provided until it is deemed appropriate.
Drake Software hires interim CEO
of software solutions to insurance agents and brokers. Earlier in his career, he was also the CEO of Thomson Tax/Accounting Group.
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HCC Foundation 2022 Calendar available The Haywood Community College Foundation 2022 calendar is available for purchase. Showcasing photos from community members and HCC faculty and staff, proceeds from sales will support the HCC Cares/Lavender Fund for student emergencies. Typical emergency funding may include transportation needs, childcare, heating and utility assistance, housing and food assistance. The calendar highlights the campus in its full glory during each season and would make perfect holiday gifts. Calendars may be purchased by stopping by the Buckeye Building on the college campus. The cost of the calendar to purchase in person is $10 plus tax. Campus is closed Dec. 23 through Jan. 3 but is otherwise open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Calendars can also be purchased online by visiting haywood.edu/foundation/donate-to-thefoundation. The cost to purchase online is $13 per calendar, which includes tax and shipping. For more information, visit haywood.edu/foundation/hcc-calendar or call 828.627.4679.
written by Ingles Dietitian Leah McGrath DONATING TO FOOD BANKS If you’re considering donating food items to your local food pantry, food bank or a shelter that provides emergency food supplies; start with a call to that organization or a check of their website or Facebook page for what food or other items they most need and can accept. Generally, shelf-stable items are the easiest for them to accept, store and distribute. Please check before donating fresh or frozen products to make sure the facility is able to receive and store these items. While canned and packaged shelf-stable food items should work for most; think about how you can donate foods that will help families make a meal. Some items you might not have thought about donating: • Shelf stable (UHT milk in tetra paks), canned or dried milk can be used with dried cereal, oatmeal, cream of wheat or to make macaroni and cheese or soups • Dried spices, herbs and seasoning blends to give more flavor to meats, proteins, beans and grains • Instant coffee and tea bags • Boxed cake, biscuit, roll or bread mixes that can be made with just adding oil or water • Oil, sugar and flour for cooking and recipe use • Dish detergent and cleaning supplies • Can opener, storage bags, utensils
Leah McGrath, RDN, LDN
Smoky Mountain News
With strong financial results, underpinned by industry leading client satisfaction, Drake Software based in Franklin is moving forward with plans to increase investment across all areas of the business, including product development, sales and marketing, and customer support. This is the first of many planned investments that will be overseen by interim Chief Executive Officer Euan Menzies. “I am enthusiastic about the strong foundation, the passionate and dedicated team, and the many opportunities to grow and strengthen the company,” said Menzies. “By investing in our people and in product development, we will ensure Drake continues to delight customers while also providing future innovation. We currently expect to add at least 100 full-time positions over the next six months.” Previously the chairman of the board, Menzies takes over the CEO role most recently held by Jamie Stiles, who, after many years of dedicated service, is stepping down as Drake’s CEO. To ensure a smooth transition, Stiles will remain as a member of the board. Menzies has more than 20 years of executive experience with other successful business-tobusiness software and information companies. Most notably, Menzies served for more than 10 years as the CEO of Vertafore, a leading provider
Ingles Nutrition Notes
December 1-7, 2021
n the evening of Monday, Nov. 15, the Special Victims Unit of the Macon County Sheriff ’s Office initiated an investigation after receiving a complaint of a sexual assault involving a Macon County employee. Sheriff Robbie Holland was notified of the allegation and immediately contacted Capt. Dani Burrows of the Criminal Investigations Unit and requested that she and one of her detectives from SVU to initiate an investigation into the incident. Holland also contacted District Attorney Ashley Welch and the supervisor for the State Bureau of Investigations who agreed to assist in the investigation. On Nov. 19, Holland met with the detention officer who was the Kevin Sanchez involved suspect in the investigation — Kevin Sanchez. Following a brief conversation, Holland terminated the person’s employment effective immediately. He then advised Sanchez that he was being charged with second degree forcible rape. An SBI agent served the arrest warrants, and Holland made arrangements with another detention center to house Sanchez while he attempted to make the $400,000 bond that was set.
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Macon officer investigated on rape allegations
Ingles Market Corporate Dietitian
@InglesDietitian Leah McGrath - Dietitian 800.334.4936 Ingles Markets… caring about your health
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